Oct 30, 2010

NFL Week 8

Wow, week eight already? It feels like the NFL season just started yesterday, but with October coming to an end and the halfway mark approaching, the NFL season clearly didn’t start yesterday. The Cowboys are 1-5, the Vikings are 2-4, the Chargers are 2-5, and the Colts are in third place in their division…how predictable?

Not only are teams performing surprisingly, but Brandon Lloyd is second in the league in receiving yards, Kyle Orton’s second in passing yards, and Darrelle Revis has been less than the best cover corner in the game this season. I know Revis has been hurt, but I’m pretty sure he won’t be able to pay the tax on Revis Island if he doesn’t start to shut down his opponents in the next couple of weeks. The parity in the NFL seems to be at an all-time high.

Here are my picks for Week 8...

(Lines as of Saturday morning, home teams in CAPS)

Denver (+2) over San Francisco (in London, UK)

Troy Smith starting against a Denver team coming off of their worst loss possibly ever (I know, that’s quite a statement). The Broncos defense is clearly banged up, and the Niners clearly need a win, but the wheels fell off the Niners wagon a long time ago. This game isn’t good enough to be played on U.S. soil.

Jacksonville (+6.5) over DALLAS

It seems every game is a trap game for the Cowboys. They really got beat bad by a very good Giants team on MNF, and they’re probably looking forward to getting back to basics against the well below average Jaguars. I’m just not taking the Cowboys until they look better than they’ve been all season, it’s been six games already, they lost their quarterback, what reason is there to think they can beat anyone by almost a whole touchdown?

Washington (+2.5) over DETROIT

The Redskins give up a lot of yards a game but are still a top-10 defense as far as points allowed goes. Ryan Torain is coming off of the best two games of his career and the Lions give up almost 140 rush yards a game. The Lions secondary is weak and as long as McNabb’s line can hold the pressure the Lions will send at him, the Redskins should do more than cover this one.

NY JETS (-6) over Green Bay

I expect the Jets should only get better as the season progresses, and the Packers are dropping like flies. Aaron Rodgers is dreadful at getting rid of the ball quickly and the Jets pass rush should have a field day with the Packers O-line/Rodgers. The Packers are still a better team than most analysts are giving them credit for, but the Jets seem to have the advantage in every aspect of this game. Teams have been exploiting the Jets secondary, but Revis said he’s 100% healthy, and as we all know, he’s no slouch.

ST. LOUIS (-3) over Carolina

I pick the Rams every week, and for some reason I don’t feel comfortable with them against the Panthers. And then I look at the Panthers stats and there’s no way I can pick that team to win anything. David Gettis (or anyone else) has to emerge as a legit receiving option before the Panthers offense can compete and beat anybody, including the once dreadful Rams. St. Louis has been a pleasant surprise behind Sam Bradford, who has gone the last two games without a pick. Steven Jackson’s had 100-plus rushing games his last three times out and the Rams should play confident as the better team Sunday.

CINCINNATI (-1) over Miami

This is the one pick I’m making that I really hate. The Dolphins seem to be golden when it comes to covering spreads and winning tough games, but I think the Bengals can win this one. They’re underachieving like no other, but they’ve only played two of their six games at home this season. They’ve lost three straight games but Carson Palmer has been completing passes at a high percentage and is due for a win. I think it’s the key to every game, but the key to this game is the battle up front, if the Bengals can protect Palmer they should be winning this one.

Buffalo (+7.5) over KANSAS CITY

The Bills aren’t going to lose every game they play this season, and after losing to the Ravens in OT they have to be as hungry as ever for a win. Ryan Fitzpatrick has looked better in each start, and he really seems to be connecting with Lee Evans and Steve Johnson. I don’t think Kansas City’s that good that they win by more than a touchdown against the Bills.

Tennessee (+3.5) over SAN DIEGO

What’s the deal with Vegas’s love affair with the Chargers? Every week the Chargers come out and lose games for themselves. It’s not like they’re outplayed every week, or that they’re just not as talented as their opponents, it’s that they make mistake after mistake that good teams just can’t make. The Titans are as good as anyone in the NFL, and unlike the Chargers, they win because they do all the little things. They tackle through the whistles, they don’t turn the football over much, and they play for a coach who knows how to lead men. The Chargers are still talented, but don’t mistake them for a good football team.

Tampa Bay (+3) over ARIZONA

I look at the Cardinals and I just don’t see anything that I like. They’re dead last in the league in yards per game, they give up the fifth most yards per game on defense, and they’re tied for second to last in turnover differential. Max Hall has more concussions than touchdown passes this season, and Josh Freeman is not only playing well, but leading his team to victories. The Bucs have allowed four straight 100-yard rushers, but Beenie Wells really is no Steven Jackson.

OAKLAND (-2.5) over Seattle

How good of a division leader could the Seahawks be if they're underdogs against the Raiders? Not to take anything away from the Raiders, but I’m not picking the Seahawks unless they’re playing at home, which this weekend they’re not. The Raiders are playing with some momentum after putting 59-points on rival Denver, but the Seahawks rush defense hasn’t been too shabby and the Raiders don’t really have much of a passing game. I don’t like Seattle yet so I’m going Rayyyyduhhhz.

Minnesota (+6) over NEW ENGLAND

I know, the Pats are at home and playing as good as anyone in the NFL right now, and Brett Favre’s hurt/may not play/getting killed by the media every day still. The wild card in this game is Brad Childress. If he benches Favre then I lose this pick immediately, but I can’t see Favre sitting this one out without raising hell. I don’t think Favre would be back this season if he wasn’t so important to this team, and I don’t think they wouldn’t play him if he felt he was capable of playing. Adrian Peterson will run all over the Pats, and Favre will make plays, because that’s what he is, a playmaker first and a quarterback second. Husband/human-being in a distant third.

Pittsburgh (+1) over NEW ORLEANS

I’m picking another dog. I just don’t see how anyone expects the Saints to pull this one out without a real running back. I know RB is the easiest position to play in the NFL, but say that after you play the Steelers. The Steelers will be without d-end Aaron Smith, but if you haven’t noticed it’s the scheme that makes the Steelers as good as they are, and I think they’re better than a struggling Saints who just lost at home to the Browns. Do you know what the Steelers do with the Browns? I think this will be a great game, and I don’t want to count the Saints out, but I like black and yellow (black and yellow, black and yellow) over black and gold in my preseason Superbowl matchup.

INDIANAPOLIS (-5.5) over Houston

I actually have the Texans circled on my hand-written version of my picks, but I then remembered a rule that I made a couple of weeks ago when the Colts were playing the Redskins…and I quote “don’t pick against Peyton in primetime games.” Well I picked against Peyton that night and I lost, not falling for that one…again. That’s my expert logic.

Enjoy the festivities, and if Trick or Treaters come by while your teams in the redzone, you don’t have to get the door, they’ll understand...

Last week: 9-5 (ohhhh yeaaahhh!!!!)

Oct 28, 2010

NBA Preview

"It's the most wonderful time...of the year..."

That is the only song I've been hearing in my head this week, because as you know, THE NBA'S BACK!!! After the most exciting offseason in NBA history, the 2010-2011 campaign has a lot on the line for a lot of players, coaches, and organizations. Here are the storylines I'll be following the closest...

Miami Thrice

You’ve seen the commercials, you’ve heard the songs, and you definitely have your own thoughts on “The Decision,” it’s time to end the speculation and put the product into effect. They looked pretty lost on Tuesday night against a team that’s been together for four seasons now, but that’ll happen when you’re a completely new team and two of your best players, rather the two players who you live and die with missed significant preseason games.

In his disappointing debut, LeBron still looked like the best player in the NBA and that’s what I think this season will show us above all else. I think Dwyane Wade will still be one of the 10 best players in the league, and that Chris Bosh will largely benefit from having two players on his team that command help defense, but Bosh has to be more aggressive. This team will not win if Chris Bosh can’t learn to dominate the paint on either end of the floor. LeBron didn’t win in Cleveland because he didn't really play with a talented big, Chris Bosh is as skilled as anyone above 6’10, but he has to assert himself and not fall into the mix of role players that make up 85% of Miami’s roster.

LeBron already played with a big jump-shooter in Antawn Jamison and it didn’t work. He needs players who will complement his skill set, he needs someone who can be more than effective near the basket, and he needs a shooting threat. Bosh and Wade aren’t either of those, which makes me think this team isn’t built to win a championship. The team sinks or swims with Bosh, and with the money he’s making, he better keep them afloat.

Did the Knicks assemble a real team?

I know a lot of people think the Knicks are still irrelevant, but for the money they paid their coach and the patience they’ve asked their fans to have, this has to be the year that things start to get better for New York basketball. Do they have the talent to make the playoffs? That’s arbitrational. But this is the team that Donnie Walsh and Mike D’Antoni have put together after flushing away all of the memories from Isiah Thomas’s tenure in NYC, and while they didn’t get a LeBron or a Carmelo (yet), if this team doesn’t show signs of improvement it’ll be worse than villains taking over Gotham.

I think that they have enough talent to make the playoffs in the Eastern Conference, and I think with the leadership of Amar’e Stoudemire and Ray Felton, Madison Square Garden will be electric this year. Don’t expect them to be rubbing elbows with the Heat or Celtics (or Bucks and Hawks for that matter), but do expect them to fight for a winning record for the first time since 2001. Rome wasn't build in one day...

The Carmelo Factor

Back to the previously mentioned Carmelo Anthony. Other than Kobe Bryant, I don’t think there’s a player in the Western Conference as significant as Melo is this season. If Melo stays in Denver I expect the Nuggets to remain amongst the elite teams in the conference. If Melo goes, Denver goes to the bottom. The reason this is so important is because I think Carmelo’s fate dictates the fate of not only the Nuggets, but the Suns, the Blazers, the Jazz, and any other team who may be fighting for the last couple of playoff spots in the Western Conference. Not to say that the 3 previously mentioned teams aren’t playoff teams, but the West is really, really deep this year and we’re going to see at least two good teams not get in.

Boston’s Age

If this team has championship aspirations it all starts and ends with Kevin Garnett. The Celtics made it to game 7 of the NBA Finals last season with a less than 100% Garnett and an injured Kendrick Perkins, and they looked a little flat at times in the playoffs. The window is only shrinking for the aging Celtics, but they do have very good, very experienced players to win a championship if they have a legit post-presence, and if you’ve watched Shaq or Jermaine O’Neal the last couple of seasons, you know it’s not going to be either of them.

The Celtics have a lot of high-end role players, and if they can get through the season in one piece they’re the best that the Eastern Conference has to offer. I can’t imagine that Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Doc Rivers all came back this year to do anything other than win a championship, and Rajon Rondo looks more like the best point guard in the league everytime he steps on a court. This may not be their last chance, but with the Heat only building around their big three, the Magic improving yearly, and the hype around the Knicks and Bulls, if the Big Three 2007 wants one more ring they have to take care of business this season.

Will the Hawks finally soar?

The Hawks resigned their franchise guy in Joe Johnson, but they didn’t extend Al Horford or Jamal Crawford who are the teams third and fourth best players. Will this fuel the two to work hard and try to earn big pay days, or will they mope around and allow other up-and-coming Eastern Conference teams to pass them by? Horford's one of the games youngest, brightest stars, and we've seen the worst of Jamal Crawford in the not so distant past.

They have a very good starting five, but they don’t really have a great leader and they don’t have elite depth. Every other team around them has been adding quality contributors and I don’t think Josh Powell isn’t going to get the job done for the ATL. With the improvement of the Southeast division, the Hawks probably won’t finish in the top five in the East. I say they don’t take that next step and make serious moves in the offseason.

The Wizards Dilemma

When I look at their roster I think to myself, this team has an outside shot at being the surprise team this year. Andray Blatche has done a great job with the garbage time he’s been given the last couple of years, Javale McGee’s raw as sushi but is developing at an alarming pace, I think John Wall’s going to be the real deal, they have talented veterans like Kirk Hinrich and Al Thornton, and they also have a guy named Gilbert Arenas who they still owe 80 million dollars over the next four seasons.

While the center-piece of the offense will be Wall, Arenas is most definitely the X-factor for this team. We’re talking about a guy who was one of the NBA’s best scorer’s just a few seasons ago, and he even averaged 22.6 points per game in his suspension-limited season in 2009-2010. When Gil’s happy and healthy he’s effective, unfortunately for the Wizards he doesn’t really seem to be happy or healthy right now. If Arenas can find it in him to take his job seriously (he only has 80 million reasons to) the Wizards are dangerous.

The Central Division

In my opinion there are only two teams to discuss here; the Bucks and the Bulls. Andrew Bogut or not, it’s kind of difficult to dislike Milwaukee heading into this season. Brandon Jennings had a very impressive rookie season, John Salmons has emerged as a very credible two-guard in the league, and between Ersan Ilyasova, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, and Carlos Delfino, they have wingmen who can defend, shoot, and even rebound. And then there’s Andrew Bogut.

One of the five best centers in the league, Bogut had a freak arm/hand injury in early April, sidelining him from the Bucks playoff run last year. He posted 15 points and 15 boards in the Bucks season debut, so there’s no reason to worry too much about him, but he has post help he’s never seen this year with the additions of Drew Gooden and rookie Larry Sanders. Sanders is a rebounding/defending machine who can be Tyrus Thomas minus the attempted offense. This kids all business on the boards and in the paint.

Aside from drafting Sanders, the Bucks also landed Darington Hobson, a versatile guard/forward with a silky smooth jump shot. While Hobson may not see the floor much as a rookie, he’ll be dueling with Chris Douglas-Roberts and Corey Maggette for minutes at the three, all very viable choices. Almost makes you forget about Michael Redd huh?

As impressive as the Bucks look on paper, everyone’s favorite pick in the Central seems to be Chicago. Pairing the unbelievable guard play of Derrick Rose with do-it-all power forward Carlos Boozer (when healthy) is one of the best duos in the league. Joakim Noah’s become one of the leagues best rebounders, and the energy he exerts on both sides of the court only fuels his more skilled teammates.

Although he’s known around the league as a shooter, Kyle Korver plays solid defense as well, and platooning with Keith Bogans and Ronnie Brewer will help the Bulls with the likes of Ray Allen and Paul Pierce as well as Dwyane Wade and LeBron James. The Bulls also have good depth up front being able to pull Taj Gibson, Kurt Thomas, James Johnson and rookie Omer Asik off the bench to help Boozer and Noah.

The Bottom of the East

Not in any order, but the Heat, Celtics, Magic, Hawks, Bulls, and Bucks are most definitely getting into the playoffs…who’s taking the last two spots? I mentioned the Wizards earlier but is it too soon for them to make a playoff push? I’m going to say the Knicks will take one spot because I’m an absolute homer, and I’m going to have to do a little process of elimination to figure out the other team.

I don’t think the Raptors will win many games this year, and I think the Cavs and Nets will be in the same boat. But when you look at the talent on the Pistons, the Sixers, and the Bobcats not one of them really stands out. I also expect the Pacers to be right there if Danny Granger can play close to 82 games.

I like the talent that the Pistons have, but I think they will have a hard time finding their best rotation and being effective with all of the talented perimeter players on their roster. They seem devoted to Rodney Stuckey at the point, but I think my guess is as good as John Kuester's as to who he likes at the 2 and 3 positions. I think the Sixers have the young talent to take the last spot in the East with Jrue Holiday being a real candidate for Most Improved Player of the Year. I don't really understand them getting rid of Sammy Dalembert, but I think they have so many athletic, skilled bodies that they have to play better than the rest of the least of the east.

The Growth of the Thunder

Oh what a difference one year makes. The Oklahoma City Thunder went from a 23 win team to a 50 win team in just one year, and while I doubt they’ll win 77 games this year, they’re the hottest, fastest growing franchise in maybe all of sports (other than the Jets, ha). The sky’s the limit for MVP-candidate Kevin Durant, and with a supporting cast of Russell Westbrook and Jeff Green this team is still growing.

What separates the Thunder from teams in the past like the Clippers of 2002, or the Bulls in 2005, is that they have role playing veterans and they love playing for their coach. Thabo Sefolosha, Serge Ibaka, and Nenad Kristic do a lot of the teams dirty work allowing their young stars to grow into their roles and further develop. James Harden, Eric Maynor, and Cole Aldrich will all contribute this season, and if they can develop as quickly as the big 3 in the starting lineup, this Thunder team can challenge for a championship sooner than people think. Buy some stock while you can because these guys are on fire.

Houston’s Health

It seems like the injury bug bites Yao Ming every season, so this is less directed at Yao than it is at their newest star, Kevin Martin. Martin and Aaron Brooks might be the best scoring backcourt in the league and they really put pressure on the opposing defense to stay on the perimeter and give Yao his space. I’m not expecting Yao to be in the picture come playoff time, but if both he and Martin are still going strong come May this is a dangerous, dangerous team.

Not only do the Rockets play defense, but they have players at every position who can shoot the ball. Brad Miller could start for the majority of teams in the league and Luis Scola is one of the most underrated players in the game today. A healthy Yao and Martin gets them 50 plus wins, losing either one of them makes Houston a borderline playoff team. We’ll see…

Magic’s Disappearing Act

Not like Hedo Turkoglu is the epitome of consistency, but where is Rashard Lewis? ‘Shard makes franchise player money, but he’s probably the teams third or fourth most important player due to his inconsistencies. Vince Carter isn’t exactly captain savior either, which makes me think this team doesn’t have it in them to make it back to the finals until they get a more respectable second option. Dwight Howard is a top-10 talent, but he isn’t exactly a go-to guy on the offensive end.

Every season this team thinks they’re getting closer, but I don’t think they’re making the moves to put them ahead of the Heat or Celtics, and maybe not even the Bulls. I don’t see how Quentin Richardson is an upgrade over Matt Barnes, at all, and Chris Duhon isn’t going to put anyone over the top come playoff time. They’re still one of the leagues best teams, but until Rashard Lewis and Vince Carter show up when it counts, this team isn’t winning anything.

Last dance for Dirk?

The Mavericks will probably never return to the dungeon of the Western Conference as long as Mark Cuban’s in charge, but Dirk Nowitzki’s chances at a ring are fading every day. The Mavs have the talent, they have a good coach, they have leadership, they just can’t seem to win when it matters. I should have known the Lakers were going to run the table again last Spring, but with their inconsistencies at the end of the season, I really thought last year could have been it for Dallas. They were bounced in the first round.

The Mavs went out and added Tyson Chandler and drafted shooting guard Dominique Jones, who will be the second rookie stud in a row for them after Roddy Beaubois tore it up last year. Jason Kidd and Jason Terry are aging, but they have a lot of guys still in their prime, and if Denver trades Melo the Mavs will make a big push this year.

Spurs Reloaded

San Antonio is another team that has looked older the last couple of seasons. Tim Duncan looks worn down, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili miss considerable amount of games every season, but this Spurs team has the talent to make up for their stars inadequacies.

George Hill has been one of the best bench players in the league the last two seasons, DeJuan Blair proved himself to be serviceable in his rookie campaign, and James Anderson, Tiago Splitter and Alonzo Gee make up the best rookie tandem any team in the league has to offer. Call me crazy but I think Tiago Splitter has the capability to really alleviate the stress placed on Tim Duncan during the regular season. He may not average a double-double but I see a lot of young Pau Gasol in him, and if he gets the playing time he will be the surprise rookie of 2010-2011.

Can the Grizzlies make the playoffs?

Yes, they can. Don’t get it twisted, they can, that doesn’t mean they will. What starting five would you rather have in a video game than the Grizzlies? Rudy Gay’s back, Zach Randolph’s in a contract year, and Marc Gasol may have been the surprise player of the year in 2009-2010. Even Mike Conley has shown signs of life. What about O.J. Mayo?

Mayo’s stats dropped off in every category but field goal percentage from his rookie to sophomore year. I know there’s such a thing as a sophomore slump, but it sure didn’t seem like Derrick Rose or Eric Gordon experienced them. O.J. could be one of the best guards in the NBA if he finds his role with the Grizzlies, which is part his fault and part Lionel Hollins fault. With the talent the Grizzlies have, they need to be able to play more team ball if they want to compete for a playoff spot. Every player going out and getting their own shots isn’t what wins games, it might make Gay and Randolph great fantasy options, but until this team plays like a cohesive unit they’ll sit with the Warriors and the Kings in the basement of the Western Conference.

most importantly...

Kobe’s Body

Kobe Bryant shot 6-24 from the field in Game 7 of the NBA Finals, he played a great game finishing with 23 points and 15 rebounds, but how is the greatest scorer in the league, probably since Michael Jordan retired, going to go 6 of 24 from the field in a championship deciding game? Because he was banged up.

Pau Gasol has proven to be more of a 1A than a 2 with the Lakers, but if Kobe has another injury plagued season like he did last year, I don’t think it’ll be enough for the threepeat (which if they do will be Phil Jackson’s FOURTH threepeat, wow, just wow). I think from top-to-bottom the Lakers have the best team in the league, and until any other team takes the league by storm it’s the Lakers championship to lose. They definitely won’t be playing without Kobe, but if the Celtics weren’t so stagnant in Game 7 we might not be talking about how great the Lakers are. In their defense, they played defense and found a way to come from behind and win the big game, but I think it’s a more top heavy league this season and that the Lake Show will need a fully functioning Kobe to get the job done this year.

lastly...

RIP Allen Iverson

Sorry for being so vulgar in my headline, but the fact that the Answer has been reduced to playing in Turkey just drives me crazy. He didn't seem capable of playing in the NBA after his brief stint last season, and maybe he just wasn't able to get himself together and make a team feel he's worth a shot at this stage of his career. Scoring prowess aside, his bad/non-caring attitude combined with his incapability of being a teammate, as well as his problems off the court, have finally gotten him blackballed from the NBA. The greatest scorer pound-for-pound in NBA history. I guess you couldn't have expected picket fences at the end of his journey, but I didn't think he'd go out like this.



There are plenty of other things to look out for, like the freak show that is Blake Griffin, the revenge of Chris Paul, and the never ending joke that is David Kahn (come on L'Wolves, there's some real talent up there). Expect lots of NBA posts over the next 10 months (lots of college hoops too), but for now I leave you with my so unsure but I'm doing it cause it's the cool thing to do...

Predictions:

CONFERENCE FINALS - Lakers over Nuggets (Mavs if Melo gets traded)

Celtics over Heat

NBA CHAMPS - Celtics over Lakers

MVP - LeBron James

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR - Blake Griffin

SIXTH MAN - Corey Maggette or Jamal Crawford

COACH OF THE YEAR - Scott Skiles

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Josh Smith

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF THE YEAR - Jrue Holiday

COMEBACK PLAYER OF THE YEAR -Yao Ming

First Team All-NBA

G - Kobe Bryant G - Chris Paul F -LeBron James F -Kevin Durant C - Dwight Howard

First Team All Defense

G - Rajon Rondo G - Thabo Sefolosha F - Josh Smith F - Ron Artest C - Dwight Howard

First Rookie Team

John Wall, Blake Griffin, DeMarcus Cousins, Wesley Johnson, Landry Fields

Oct 26, 2010

My Decision on LeBron

This is not fueled by LeBron's new Rise commercial, it's fueled by the beginning of the NBA season and the debut tonight of the greatest player in the game getting ready for his new challenge. You wanna know how I feel about LeBron's summer?

I’m over it, it’s that easy. Prior to July 8th, 2010 I spent the last two years of my life dreaming that LeBron James would don the Knicks orange and Blue for the 2010-2011 season. Like many of my other dreams, it didn’t come to fruition, and I have to be an adult and move forward.

I was so angry during “The Decision,” and at LeBron for taking the easy road and playing with other elite players. I was mainly angry because he wasn’t coming to resurrect my dying (still) franchise, but a big part of me was disappointed that he could have been known as the guy who had a team built around him and won despite having another great player next to him. He went from being the guy who kept climbing the ladder of greatness, to the guy who took the elevator. Say what you want about Kobe, but at least when he asked for the team to be built around him instead of Shaq, he made good on his word and won HIS franchise two more championships (for now). It would’ve been great to see LeBrons’ hard work and diligence pay off with him winning with role players, but I think it’s unfair to take away from his greatness if he goes out and wins with two fellow Olympians instead.

Moving forward, it was his choice, it’s his life, and although he’s never won anything, it’s his league. He didn’t lose his title as the King because he went to Miami, he’s still the same player, but now he has help. Would you have been angry at Kevin Garnett if he would’ve signed with a powerhouse when he had his chance to get out of dreadful Minnesota? Cleveland had seven years of LeBron, they were very fortunate he resigned with them in the first place, and while I feel bad for the whole city of Cleveland, the NBA is a business and LeBron made what he felt was the best business decision.

He signed with a team that was in a location he liked, is owned by a man he respects, and is run by one of the greatest basketball minds of all time. Step outside of your box as a fan of the Knicks, Bulls, Cavs, Nets, whoever, the writing has always been on the wall for LeBron to upgrade his situation, and he did as good of a job as he could’ve with Miami. This has created an incredible storyline for the NBA and is really going to show us how good LeBron is with that big bulls-eye everyone’s painted on him this summer.

You can hate him for putting on a show, making a spectacle of his signing, and breaking the hearts of millions, but that’s not all on him. How can you be mad at LeBron for having an hour special about his signing when his free agency had been the biggest story in basketball for the last year and a half? If it feeds into his ego then so be it, he’s been a professional athlete for seven years (10 if you include the circus that was his high school experience) and every year there are more fans, there are more endorsements, there’s more attention being given to this man for one thing, what he can do on a basketball court.

If anything he’s better now than he’s ever been, so why hate him now? I’m not rooting for the Heat by any stretch of the imagination, but I’m a happy basketball fan knowing that the LeBron James season starts tonight.

NBA Season Preview up tomorrow...

Oct 22, 2010

NFL Week 7

I think this is going to be a good week for my picks. Last week I suffered my first losing week and after tasting defeat, I’m inspired to get back out there and win. In the spirit of the upcoming NBA season (preview coming Monday) I’m doing this weeks edition D’Antoni style…7 words or less. Let’s get ‘em you Mozgovs!

First the NLCS

How about that Cody Ross?


Picks (Lines as of 10/22)


Steelers (-3) over DOLPHINS

Good game, Steelers got the juice now.

FALCONS (-3.5) over Bengals

Cincy’s struggling and can’t stop the run.

Jaguars (+9) over Chiefs

Too many points for not bad Jaguars.

TITANS (-3) over Eagles

Kolb’s gotta prove he can do it again.

Redskins (+3) over BEARS

Hate the Bears for losing to Seattle.

Browns (+13) over SAINTS

McCoy didn’t look bad against Steelers.

RAVENS (-13) over Bills

This Bills team is historically awful.

49ers (-3) over PANTHERS

Not buying niners yet, Panthers stink though.

Rams (+3) over BUCS

Everyday they’re hustling, Bradford’s the real deal.

SEAHAWKS (-6) over Cardinals

‘Hawks at home are like college team.

Patriots (+3) over Chargers

Still waiting for Chargers to start season.

Raiders (+8.5) over BRONCOS

Here you go Nnamdi, Raiders D covers.

Vikings (+2.5) over PACKERS

Big game for Favre, so AD will beast.

Giants (+3) over COWBOYS

How are the ‘Boys favorites, gimme a break.

Last Week: 5-8-1 (Thank God basketball’s coming back and I can talk about a sport I know something about)

Oct 16, 2010

Theeee Yankeeees Win! And Week 6 Picks

It’s no secret that I’m a Yankees fan, and if it was a secret, well the monkey’s out of the bottle now. I know it was only game one, but what a game one it was as a Yankees fan. I’m not just saying it because I’m a fan, but when Brett Gardner led off the top of the eighth with a head-first sliding, infield single, I had a feeling it was the start of something good. It’s October, not September, it’s magic season.

Now everyone’s going out and saying that the real heroes last night were Dustin Moseley and Joba Chamberlain, who both really held it together in their relief appearances…but you don’t win unless you put runs on the board. The heroes are Gardner, Robinson Cano, Jeter, A-Rod, Marcus Thames; the guys who got timely hits and never allowed a 5-run lead to become insurmountable. Great teams find a way to win the tough ones, and if last night wasn’t a sign of a great team, I don’t know what is.

The Rangers looked very impressive through seven innings, and it looks like we’re in for a great ALCS. On to the foosball picks…

(Lines as of Saturday afternoon)

ST. LOUIS (+8.5) over San Diego

When you look at the Rams roster you can’t help but wonder if this is really a professional football team. They came out and got smoked by the Lions last week, the freaking Lions! So why am I picking them to cover against the Chargers, who tend to hit stride at this point in the season and are close to getting Vincent Jackson back? Because the Chargers have been disgustingly inconsistent and the Rams are almost 9 point home dogs. San Diego turns the ball over a lot and despite getting destroyed by the Lions, the Rams D will bounce back against a falsely confident Chargers team. 8-8 probably wins the AFC West this year.

HOUSTON (-4.5) over Kansas City

This may be the best game of the week, and after seeing the Chiefs play the Colts tough, it’s time to take them serious. With all four AFC South teams tied at 3-2, and with tough opponents Week 6, this isn’t a must win for the Texans, but if they want to make the playoffs for the first time in their franchises history, the push has to start now.

Baltimore (+2.5) over NEW ENGLAND

I try not to be a homer, but I just don’t like the Pats. I think the Ravens have Tom Brady’s number, and I really don’t see how Deion Branch can replace Randy Moss. I get the Brady-Branch connection, I know he knows the system, and I understand that this is rejuvenating for Branch, but the reason the Pats were able to win without a number 1 receiver for all those years was their defense. They don’t have that same defense, they beat up on the Dolphins, woo-hoo, but I don’t think they can beat the Ravens by 3 on Sunday.

TAMPA BAY (+4) over New Orleans

Saints need a win, badly. The Saints also need a running back badly and quite frankly just don’t look as confident as they did a season ago. They’re still a much better team than the Bucs, but Tampa’s 3-1 and they keep finding a way to win games. I don’t think that they’re good, but momentum means a lot in the NFL and the Bucs have a lot of it, the Saints, not so much.

Atlanta (+2.5) over PHILADELPHIA

Kolb stinks. Falcons are winning big games. That won’t stop Sunday.

NY GIANTS (-10) over Detroit

I hate this game. This is a game the Giants tend to not show up for. They waxed an explosive Texans offense and have really displayed their strengths and weaknesses early on in the season. If Calvin Johnson doesn’t play I don’t see how the Lions put points on the board. Eli’s gotta play smart football and Bradshaw has to hold onto the ball, but the Giants should win this won running away.

CHICAGO (-6) over Seattle

I think the Seahawks are all smoke and mirrors and the Bears defense is legit. Seattle ranks 31st against the pass and Jay Cutler’s back.

Miami (+3) over GREEN BAY

Aaron Rodgers is hurt, Clay Matthews is hurt, and the Dolphins have the 4th best pass defense in football. They’re too well coached to not come back strong after getting demolished by the Pats at home on MNF.

PITTSBURGH (-14) over Cleveland

I really didn’t want to pick the Steelers in this one, but how could I not? Eric Mangini plugging Colt McCoy in at QB in this spot is just heartless. The Steelers defense have been the best in football this year and the Browns offense has really struggled, now they're putting in a rookie to take snaps. The Browns may get shut-out and the Steelers are good for at least 14 with their chosen quarterback coming back. I don’t think Roethlisberger will be airing it out, but this one shouldn’t be close.

NY Jets (-3) over DENVER

The writings on the wall for the Jets to lose this one. Short week, thin air, pass heavy opponent, no Revis…but as I mentioned earlier, the great teams find a way to win the tough ones. Denver is awfully one-dimensional and the Jets have a bye week coming up. Time to take care of business.

Oakland (+7) over SAN FRANCISCO

How could an 0-5 team be seven point favorites??? The Niners stink and you can’t keep saying they’ll get it together next week. I think they’ll win this one, but the Raiders aren’t that bad and like I said, the Niners stink. Raiders should cover.

Dallas (+1.5) over MINNESOTA

Dallas’s offensive line keeps getting healthier and Brett Favre keeps deteriorating. It’s a huge game for Favre, of course he’ll play, and I think after playing so well against the Jets defense on MNF the Vikes have some more confidence. Both of these teams are too good to start 1-4, but I think the Cowboys are better and want it more.

WASHINGTON (+3) over Indianapolis

Tough tough tough tough game. I hate picking against Peyton, I almost think it should be a rule, don’t pick against Peyton Manning in primetime games. But I think the Redskins D is good and that McNabb will air it out against the Colts. Peyton will air it out too (obviously), and this one may turn into who can get THE stop. I like the Skins at home.

Tennessee (-3) over Jacksonville

Take the under on the points. Lots of running, lots of field goals, and probably lots of baseball that night.


Last week: 7-6-1 (still not pretty)

Oct 9, 2010

Week 5 Picks

What kind of celebrity sends naked pictures of themselves to people? Oh yeah, professional athletes. First Santonio Holmes, then Greg Oden, now the rumor of...Brett Favre? Aw, thats like granny porn. Just kidding, but seriously, on to what really matters...

Denver (+7) over BALTIMORE

I like the Ravens to win this one but Denver has been better than I’ve been giving them credit for. Although he may not do it Sunday, Kyle Orton’s been tearing it up and oddly enough he has some good receiving threats in career underachievers Jabar Gaffney, Eddie Royal and Brandon Lloyd. The Ravens are riding high after beating the Steeler’s and Joe Flacco is 5-0 in his career against AFC West opponents. Chalk up another one Flacco.

Jacksonville (+1.5) over BUFFALO

How could the Bills be favorite’s in any game they play this year? This team literally has nothing going for them, they’re dead last in the league in points allowed and 25th in points scored. I know the Jags aren’t anything to write home about but they’re two losses have come to the Chargers on the road and Michael Vick, who was playing MVP football until he went down last week. I know it’s a low spread but the Bills shouldn’t be beating anybody, anytime soon.

INDIANAPOLIS (-7) over Kansas City

Lots of speculation heading into this game. Are the Colts still an AFC powerhouse? Are the Chiefs as good as their undefeated record? After losing on a 59-yard field goal last week I can’t see the Colts dropping two straight, especially when their upcoming schedule looks like @ Washington, Houston, @ Philadelphia, Cincinnati, @ New England, San Diego, Dallas, @ Tennessee. I’m sorry for giving you the Colts schedule in full but you get my drift. This is a must win for Indy and Peyton.

St. Louis (+3) over DETROIT

My Rams hate has come to a halt after wins over Washington and pretender Seattle. Bradford’s looking better every game and Steven Jackson’s healthier than he was last week, when he still had 25 touches. I like the Rams pass rush against Shaun Hill, and if the defense hasn’t given up more than 17 points in a game why should they against the winless Lions? This has to be the game Lions fans have been pumped up for, but every team that’s underestimated the Rams this season has been unpleasantly surprised. I’m taking the Rams to cover, maybe even win.

Atlanta (-3) over CLEVELAND

Still hate the Browns even after beating the Bengals. Atlanta toughed out a big win against the Niners week 4, and showed me that they’re a really good team. I know, how does it make sense that a team that only led for 80 seconds of a game is a really good team? San Francisco didn’t score after they recovered a punt block for a touchdown with over four minutes to go in the FIRST QUARTER! And above that, good teams find a way to win games, just like bad teams find ways to lose them. Nate Clements would have gotten down after picking off Matt Ryan with under two minutes and the game seemingly wrapped up in the fourth quarter, but he didn’t, and Roddy White made a hustle play to get that ball back, the really good team won, the bad team lost. If San Francisco is bad, the Browns are horrible and will lose by more than 3 points to one of the NFC’s best.

Tampa Bay (+6.5) over CINCINNATI

I think the Bengals will bounce back from their disappointing loss to the Browns to beat the Bucs at home, but I think this game will be a shootout. The Bucs are definitely on the come up, and the Bengals look like they aren’t quite a playoff team. Not to say the Bucs are better than the Bengals, because they’re definitely not better than more than about five teams or so, but the Bengals need to have a statement game Sunday and they won’t because they’re not that good.

CAROLINA (-3) over Chicago

Home game for the Panthers against Todd Collins, I like it. Not to say that Todd Collins is incapable, but I don’t see the Bears offense functioning as highly with Jay Cutler out. Then again, maybe this is Chicago’s chance to see how awful Cutler really is and Todd Collins chance to head a team. Ha-Ha, just kidding…sorta.

WASHINGTON (+2.5) over Green Bay

Running game, running game....where are you? Sorry, I was just channeling my inner Mike McCarthy. Although the one dimension of the Packers offense is great, the Packers offense has been very one-dimensional without Ryan Grant, and I don’t know that Aaron Rodgers has enough to beat a good Redskins defense. I never thought the Redskins would be so excited to lose Clinton Portis for a few games but all I’m hearing is that Ryan Torain is perfect for the Redskins offense, especially against the 24th ranked rush-defense of the Packers. Coach Mike Shanahan on his new back “he’s a top back in the National Football League. There’s no question about it.” If anyone knows backs it’s that guy.

HOUSTON (-3) over NY Giants

It’s hard to pick against the Giants especially after blowing up the Bears the way they did Sunday night. I just don’t like their chances against such a complete offense. Arian Foster isn’t slowing down, and has proven that he doesn’t only bruise, but he catches passes. This is a big game for both teams, and if the Giants show up, will be one of the best of the weekend.

New Orleans (-7) over Arizona

I know you don’t need to go to a big program to be a starting quarterback in the NFL, but can Max Hall really be a starting quarterback in the NFL? No undrafted quarterback has started a game in the first five weeks of their rookie season since 1987 when replacement players were used. And no BYU quarterback has had any success since Steve Young! Arizona’s line stinks, and Hall is in for hell going from playing Utah State and Wyoming to the Superbowl defending Saints. Saints win big.

San Diego (-6) over OAKLAND

No McFadden for Oakland, doesn’t really matter. Yet again the Raiders aren’t formidable and their best chance of being in games is hoping their opponents take them lightly. Rivers isn’t afraid of Asomugha and Mike Tolbert has emerged as a legit back. Bruce Gradkowski has filled up the stat sheets, we’ll see how he looks against the fourth ranked pass defense in football Sunday. The Raiders have been pretty good for a cover but I don’t like them this week.

Tennessee (+7) over DALLAS

I don’t know who’s going to win this game, and I’m eager to see what the Cowboys look like coming of their bye, but I just don’t think the Titans can lose this game by seven points. I don’t feel I need more analysis for this one, just don’t like the Titans losing big against a team that doesn’t like to run the ball. They reportedly are game-planning to get Felix Jones more touches, I’ll believe it when I see it.

SAN FRANCISCO (-3) over Philadelphia

This is a pretty tough one. I know I said last week if the Niners don’t win or cover I won’t pick them again, and while they blew getting their first win, they sure did cover. This game is a who do you believe in more game, Kevin Kolb, who couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat last week against the Redskins, or San Francisco to get their first win even though they legitimately look like one of the worst teams in football. I don’t want to pick either of these teams, but the Eagles offense has looked worse than JV with Kolb this year and the Niners NEED this one.

NY JETS (-4) over Minnesota

I am so pumped up for this one. How could anyone like the Vikings? Brett Favre’s doing a pretty good job completing passes this year, to both teams! Brett has a 61.9 completion percentage, but a 2:6 touchdown to interception ratio. Revis or not, I love the Jets to get good pressure on Favre and force some turnovers. Unless Favre has really gotten himself together with the bye week and the addition of Randy Moss, I figure Rex Ryan has to be excited to unleash his defense the way the New York media is unleashing their reporters on the 40-year old in the hot seat. Favre is pretty good for tuning out everything off the field when he plays, be he’s not going to be able to tune out the Jets pass rush. Oh yeah, the returns of Revis, Holmes, and Pace = JETS JETS JETS!

Last week 7-7 (not very good)

Oct 2, 2010

Week 4 Picks

I’m abandoning the D’Antoni style pick ems for now, there’s just too much to say to explain my picks…especially after going an impressive 9-7 last weeks. Alright, so 9-7 isn’t that great, but it’s good enough to get you into the playoffs most seasons…alright on to the picks

(Lines as of Friday evening, home team in caps, picking against spreads)

TENNESSEE (-6.5) over Denver

I really don’t like Denver much at all. Kyle Orton played his best game in blue and orange last week and they still lost by 14 to the Colts. The Bronco’s have absolutely no running game and the Titans have the fifth best pass defense in the league. The Titans have looked good so far and know they can’t lose to teams they’re better than if they want to make the playoffs in their division. Josh McDaniels may have to release his ball and juice (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/04/25/tebow-mcdaniels-made-instant-connection/) and go with a new quarterback before he loses his job.

Baltimore (+2.5) over PITTSBURGH

I’m loving the Steelers this year, I think they’re the best team in football and I think they will play for the Superbowl. However, I think this week Baltimore cashes in on the big talk checks that were written for them before the season started. The Ravens have lost three of their last four against Pittsburgh, the only game they won was the one game Ben Roethlisberger didn’t play in. Look for the Ravens to take advantage again Sunday and give Mike Tomlin a reassuring reason to get Roethlisberger back in ASAP.

Cincinnati (-3) over CLEVELAND

The Browns showed heart on the road against Baltimore last week, but this team still stinks. The potential for Jake Delhomme to come back is the best thing they have going for them…that’s like looking forward to going home and playing solitaire. Not to hate on solitaire, but depending on a washed up quarterback to make your team respectable is bleak to put it nicely. Carson Palmer has a chance to get it together against a weak spot in their tough schedule.

GREEN BAY (-14) over Detroit

I hate taking such big favorites, but they’re at home, they’re coming off of a loss, and Detroits just waiting to get on the field with St. Louis next week to get their impossible first quarter of a season together. I mean, does Roger Goodell have a heart? At Chicago, home against the Eagles, at Minnesota, at Green Bay. I know they have to play Chicago, Minnesota and Green Bay twice each, but to load up such a young and fragile-minded team just isn’t fair to them. OK, I’m over it, but Green Bay’s still going to smoke these guys.

NEW ORLEANS (-13.5) over Carolina

After a tough loss to the Falcons I’m still sold that the Saints are the class of the NFC. They actually would have won had they not been the latest of good teams to be plagued with bad kickers, I mean I could probably knock down a 29 footer. I digress. Carolina’s bad, New Orleans is still great, I’ll take them by two scores plus.

San Francisco (+7) over ATLANTA

I know, I keep picking the 49ers. This is it for them. If they don’t win or cover I give up on them. I mean it. I’ll pick the Rams, Cardinals, even the Raiders if San Francisco can’t show up in this game. Not to take anything away from Atlanta, but to start a season 0-4, even with their easy schedule, isn’t something a division winner does. Atlanta should come out fired up at home after beating the Saints…you know, why am I even going with San Fran?

Seattle (-1) over ST. LOUIS

I picked against Seattle last week, after picking them the week before, and I was wrong both times. I guess the moral of the story is pick anyone instead of the Rams? Steven Jackson got hurt last week, and somebody has to win the NFC West for God’s sakes! Seattle has enough talent to do it if San Francisco won’t, and they cannot lose to the Rams.

NY Jets (-5.5) over BUFFALO

Ok, my last few picks haven’t exactly been made with rational decision making, more process of elimination. This one’s a no-brainer. The Jets really got up for their last two games after living up to the naysayers expectations against Baltimore. I know Mark Sanchez is still a question mark, and that’s fair, but if he’s had such success against the two good teams in the division, it’s fair to expect him to play well against the Bills minus Terence McGee. They’ll have Braylon Edwards for a full game, and there’s no way Brian Schottenheimer will allow Sanchez to throw 5 picks again! This really is a statement game for the Jets. Heading into Minnesota for Monday Night Football with a 3-1 record would be a real confidence builder.

JACKSONVILLE (+7) over Indianapolis

Last season the Colts beat the Jaguars in both of their meetings, by a combined a 6 points. Jacksonville laid an egg last week against Michael Vick and although it’s Peyton Manning, they’ll be at ease not chasing that dog (ha…ha) around this Sunday. And Maurice Jones-Drew has 0 touchdowns at this point. He’s run for at least 90 yards in his last four games against the Colts. Jacksonville will try to control the clock, and will definitely keep this game within 7.

Houston (-3) over OAKLAND

The Raiders have the second best pass defense in the NFL this season, but the 24th best run defense. Too bad for Oakland the Texans are as deadly on the ground as they are through the air. Houston’s a little banged up, but they, like Tennessee, know that they have to win games against the trash of the league if they want to contend for a playoff spot. The Raiders are on the right track, minus their owner, coach, and quarterback, but at least the Jamarcus Russell era’s over. Sorry Chez.

Arizona (+8.5) over SAN DIEGO

I hate this game more than any other game this week. I really don’t like the Cardinals, and I may pick against them almost every week, but the Chargers have disappointed me pretty much every game this year. They easily won their only other game at home, but I think this one could get ugly. I think a lot of points will be scored and that Arizona will stay within eight and a half points.

Washington (+5.5) over PHILADELPHIA

I keep going against the Iggles, and I think I have to this week too, as a personal pick. I know it’s unprofessional, but I like Donovan McNabb so much and I think this is the most important game he’s ever played in. I think his team likes him enough that they want to win this game for him, and I think the Redskins are about as good as the Eagles if not better. Ron Mexico really has been the x-factor for the Eagles, and he’s been pretty damn good, but the Eagles should beat Detroit and Jacksonville. The Redskins got trapped last week, but they showed up for their first two games, and I don’t think they’ll miss this afternoon delight.

Chicago (+3.5) over NY GIANTS

What reason do I have to pick the Giants? The defense hasn’t been there and the Bears are trying to be this season’s new offense juggernaut. The Giants really need this one, and being at home under the big lights can’t work against them, but the Bears defense looks legit and the Giants O-line hasn’t been overly impressive. Eli’s been good, but he needs to put the team on his back and utilize his talented receivers, and stop throwing left-handed flip passes on the goal line. Idiot.

New England (-1) over MIAMI

Really big game for both teams. Loser starts the season 1-2 in the division, so who wants it more? I think the Pats have a good enough front 7 to contain the Dolphins, and if Sanchez looked like college Mark Sanchez against the Fins, Tom Brady’s going to look like 2007 Tom Brady against them. I’m just not buying the Dolphins.

Enjoy and feel free to post your picks and try to go one-on-one with the penman (not my nickname but it makes sense, right?).