NFL 2006 Week 8 Predictions

Last Week's Record: 5-8 (38.4%)
Season Record: 62-38 (62.0%)
Locks of the Week: 7-5 (58.3%)

5-8? 5-8? Are you kidding me? 5-8? On top of that, 0-2 for my locks.

Last week was pitiful. It can only get better, right? 5-8?

Take these picks with extreme caution, my luck is bad right now.

Arizona at Green Bay

Matt Lienart can take a few lessons from Brett Favre as he carves up the Cardinal defense.

Pick: Green Bay Packers

Atlanta at Cincinnati

This worked last week. I want the Falcons to win. The Bengals are going to win. Make me be wrong again on this one.

Pick: Cincinnati Bengals

Baltimore at New Orleans

The quarterback situation is going to cost the Ravens this one. And to think that they could have signed Drew Brees this off-season.

Pick: New Orleans Saints

Houston at Tennessee

My girlfriend says Houston because it is warmer and Tennesse is full of hicks. That is as good as a coin flip, much like this game.

Pick: Houston Texans

Jacksonville at Philadelphia

The Jaguars have to have this one, but so do the Eagles. Another toss up, but since Bryon Leftwich is out, that will have to be the clincher.

Pick: Philadelphia Eagles

Seattle at Kansas City

No starting quarterback for either team. No starting running back for Seattle and maybe no second string quarterback for the Chiefs. This one will be low scoring.

Pick: Kansas City Chiefs

San Francisco at Chicago

To quote the SNL skit, “Da Bears.”

Pick: Chicago Bears

Tampa Bay at N.Y. Giants

I am going to go out on a limb here and say the Buccaneers ride this momentum to an upset.

Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

St. Louis at San Diego

This should be a high-scoring, exciting affair. Another toss up.

Pick: San Diego Chargers

Indianapolis at Denver

Defense beats offense in the big games. And well Peyton Manning and big games do not usually go so well.

Pick: Denver Broncos

N.Y. Jets at Cleveland

The Browns have a new offensive coordinator. Now did I say offensive or offensive? That is for you to decide.

Pick: N.Y. Jets

Pittsburgh at Oakland

If the Steelers cannot win this game, they will not win another one all year. Well except for those two against Cleveland.

Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers

Dallas at Carolina

I wonder how much sleep Tony Romo got this week thinking about Julius Peppers coming for him. Boo.

Pick: Carolina Panthers

New England at Minnesota

Another big game and the best clutch quarterback is at the helm. Tom Brady, as usual, finds a way to win.

Pick: New England Patriots

Here are those other predictions as always:
ESPN Experts' Picks
Sunshine Forecast Free Weekly Picks

NFL Power Rankings after week 7

Power Rankings

Last week seems so long ago. That is probably because it was a full seven days ago. The only thing I remember is that I went 5-8 on my picks, worst than the 6-7 last week. Why is that? More teams either over or under achieving, depending on how you look at it.

Here is the new rankings after last week’s games.

1. Chicago Bears – (6-0, Last Week: 1) Didn’t win, but didn’t lose. They are the best until something drastic happens.

2. Denver Broncos – (5-1, Last Week: 2) They gave up a touchdown to Cleveland? I guess miracles do happen now and then.

3. Indianapolis Colts – (6-0, Last Week: 3) Giving up 22 points to the Redskins probably did not make Tony Dungy all that happy.

4. New England Patriots – (5-1, Last Week: 5) The team dominates their division, just ask Buffalo.

5. Cincinnati Bengals – (4-2, Last Week: 8) They were the first to defeat the Panthers when they had Steve Smith. That says something. What exactly I am not sure of yet.

6. San Diego Chargers – (4-2, Last Week: 4) Losing to the Chiefs was a bit of a shocker, but they are still one of the best teams in the league.

7. New Orleans Saints – (5-1, Last week: 10) I have jumped on the Saints band wagon. Look, I move them on a bye week.

8. Carolina Panthers – (4-3, Last Week: 7) Losing to the Bengals is nothing to be ashamed of, but their record has to improve if they want to make the playoffs.

9. Minnesota Vikings – (4-2, Last Week: 14) Chester Taylor ran all over the Seahawks. Can he do the same against New England?

10. Seattle Seahawks – (4-2, Last Week: 6) Seneca Wallace and Maurice Morris instead of Matt Hasselback and Shaun Alexander. Win this those replacements and you have a well coached team.

11. New York Giants – (4-2, Last Week: 17) They made Drew Bledsoe eat dirt and Tony Romo be weary of throwing the ball. Not a bad day at all.

12. Baltimore Ravens – (4-2, Last Week: 11) Is this team ready for New Orleans? I still cannot believe I am saying that.

13. Jacksonville Jaguars – (3-3, Last Week: 9) They did not lose to Houston, they were humiliated by Houston. They better play better against the Eagles.

14. St. Louis Rams – (4-2, Last Week: 12) They need to bounce back after the top loss to Seattle two weeks ago. Problem is they are facing a San Diego team coming off a tough loss to the Chiefs. Should be interesting.

15. Atlanta Falcons – (4-2, Last Week: 18) In terms of excitement, the Falcons and the Steelers provided the game of the week. If they can do it again against the Bengals they will show some much needed consistently.

16. New York Jets – (4-3, Last Week: 19) This team wants to be good, and maybe they are. They have an easy win against Cleveland, they had better take it.

17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – (2-4, Last Week: 22) 62-yard field goal for the win. Wow.

18. Philadelphia Eagles – (4-3, Last Week: 13) 62-yard field goal for the loss. Wow.

19. Dallas Cowboys – (3-3, Last Week: 15) Tony Romo in his first career NFL start. Who is waiting to initiate him into the league? Oh yeah, Julius Peppers. Run, Romo, run.

20. Kansas City Chiefs – (3-3, Last Week: 23) One of the other game winning field goals from last week. This team might be able to recover their slow start.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers – (2-4, Last Week: 16) On the wrong side of the best game from last week.

22. Green Bay Packers – (2-4, Last Week: 24) Brett Favre is trying real hard to make this a respectable season for the Packer fans.

23. Tennessee Titans – (1-5, Last Week: 20) I am fans are looking forward to their big match up with Houston this week.

24. Houston Texans – (2-4, Last Week: 28) Jacksonville took this team for granted. Bad move.

25. Detroit Lions – (1-6, Last Week: 21) Another close loss for the woeful Lions. And now Detroit fans are without the Tigers to ease their pain.

26. Cleveland Browns – (1-5, Last Week: 25) Only the second team all season to score a touchdown against the Broncos. That is something to be proud of. Not as nice as a win, but it is the little victories that count.

27. San Francisco 49ers – (2-4, Last Week: 27) Two weeks to prepare for Chicago is not enough time.

28. Buffalo Bills – (2-5, Last Week: 26) I guess they forgot about the winning part of the pattern from earlier in the season.

29. Oakland Raiders – (1-5, Last Week: 32) They caught the Cardinals off guard, and landed the knock out punch.

30. Miami Dolphins – (1-6, Last Week: 29) Sad.

31. Washington Redskins – (2-4, Last Week: 30) Even sadder.

32. Arizona Cardinals – (1-5, Last Week: 31) I said it last week, I will say it again. Oh my god. Just hand them the number one pick now.

ESPN Power Rankings as always. Okay, I’ll admit it. Mike Golic kicks butt right now.
ESPN’s Power Rankings

2006 NFL Week 7 Weekly Predictions

Last Week's Record: 6-7 (46.2.7%)
Season Record: 57-30 (65.6%)
Locks of the Week: 7-3 (70.0%)

I gave this weekly blog topic a new title to sound a little better.

There is always that one bad week. For me, hopefully it was last week, as I went sub .500 for the first time this season. I can think three of the four winless teams for finally playing decent football, a horrible penalty on a sack, and a last second 54-yard field goal to hand me five of my seven losses.

These are coming in a bit late, but it is 1:05 when I’m starting, there is no TVs on and I’m going to make these picks as fast as possible.

Carolina at Cincinnati

Steve Smith is undefeated this year. The Bengals have lost their identity.

Pick: Carolina

Detroit at N.Y. Jets

The Lions wish they had the Tigers luck and probably their head coach as well.

Pick: N.Y. Jets

Green Bay at Miami

Snooze fest. Packers take one basically because they know how to score.

Pick: Green Bay

Jacksonville at Houston

No explanation needed.

Lock Pick of the Week: Jacksonville

New England at Buffalo

The Patriots dominate their division, and this game will be no different.

Pick: New England Patriots

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay

I need Greg Lewis to get thrown to more for fantasy football. Here’s to hoping he has a big game and the Eagles roll over the hapless Buccaneers.

Pick: Philadelphia Eagles

Pittsburgh at Atlanta

Who do I want to win? Atlanta. Who will win? The Steelers

Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers

San Diego at Kansas City

Here’s to hoping that the Chiefs at least play better than last week.

Pick: San Diego Chargers

Denver at Cleveland

The Broncos might not be able to score many touchdown, but they surrender even fewer.

Pick: Denver Broncos

Arizona at Oakland

This is one those games the Raiders could win. But the Cardinals have to bounce back after Monday night, or Denny Green can expect to be the next one fired.

Lock Pick of the Week: Arizona Cardinals

Minnesota at Seattle

The Seahawks look like they are back on track after stealing one from the Rams

Pick: Seattle Seahawks

Washington at Indianapolis

What a horrible Sunday night game this will be.

Pick: Indianapolis Colts

N.Y. Giants at Dallas

Can TO step it up two weeks in a row? Can Eli choke like his big brother in a big game? The answer to both questions is yes.

Pick: Dallas Cowboys

The other predictions:
ESPN Experts' Picks
Sunshine Forecast Free Weekly Picks

NFL Power Rankings after Week 6

Chaos. Wrongness. Sheer luck. Bad calls. Complete meltdown.

All of those things happened Sunday and Monday during week six of the NFL season. Where order held strong last week, the exact opposite took place this week. Was there any consistency?

Sure there was – the Bears won and the Raiders lost.

1. Chicago Bears – (6-0, Last Week: 1) When a team commits six turnovers, they should not win the game. But this team is just that good. Or the Cardinals are just that bad. Rex Grossman better not make that performance a habit.

2. Denver Broncos – (4-1, Last Week: 2) The defense makes its five games with just one touchdown allowed. They almost took the top spot, but they still could not outscore a Bears offense that committed six turnovers and still won the game.

3. Indianapolis Colts – (5-0, Last Week: 3) A bye week for the only other undefeated team left besides the six-turnovers-but-still-won-the-game Bears.

4. San Diego Chargers – (4-1, Last Week: 4) Six is the number of touchdowns scored by the Chargers, and the number of turnovers the Bears had and still beat the Cardinals. Ladainian Tomilson scored four of those, and continues to be the greatest running back in the game today.

5. New England Patriots – (3-1, Last Week: 5) If a Bill Belichick team committed six turnovers, he would be irate in that emotionless kind of way, win or lose.

6. Seattle Seahawks – (4-1, Last Week: 8) The Seahawks stepped it up when they needed to, even without Shaun Alexander and Bobby Engram. Did they deserve the win? Well, if that penalty was called correctly, then sure. But the Seahawks committed five less turnovers than the Bears did and barely won. That’s pretty sad.

7. Carolina Panthers – (4-2, Last Week: 13) They deserve the big bump for one simple reason. Steve Smith makes this team unbeatable. Or at least that is the case so far. I am sure as long as he is on the field, they too could commit six turnovers and win a game.

8. Cincinnati Bengals – (3-2, Last Week: 7) The Bengals got screwed, plain and simple. No longer can teams sack quarterbacks without fear of penalty. If that crap call would have been called Monday night, two of the Bears’ six turnovers would have been negated.
9. Jacksonville Jaguars – (3-2, Last Week: 10) The Jaguars have a total of just six turnovers in five games, equaling the Bears’ total from Monday night.

10. New Orleans Saints – (5-1, Last week: 15) This teams looks real. Every week they are supposed to lose, and yet they keep on winning. And why do they keep on winning? They never turn the ball over six times in a game.

11. Baltimore Ravens – (4-2, Last Week: 6) They lost to a very good team in Carolina, but it is two losses in a row. Maybe Steve McNair is not the answer. Or maybe the defense needs to start causing six turnovers a game to win games again.

12. St. Louis Rams – (4-2, Last Week: 9) So close. They lost at the last minute on a 54-yard field goal thanks to a bad rule in the playbook. Not fair. Marc Bulger did throw his first interception of the season, but he looked way better than mister six-turnovers-in-one-game Grossman did.

13. Philadelphia Eagles – (4-2, Last Week: 11) Well they could not beat the Saints. Granted, one play here or there and they win the game. Maybe they should have caused some turnovers like the Cardinals did Monday night.

14. Minnesota Vikings – (3-2, Last Week: 12) I have no way to mention the fact the Bears gave the ball away six times and still won that can related to the Vikings who were on a bye.

15. Dallas Cowboys – (3-2, Last Week: 16) They destroyed the Texans. Bravo. Actually, that was an accomplishment, considering all the teams that did lose games to bad teams this week. Terrell Owens had three touchdowns, impressive. It was almost as impressive as a team winning while turning the ball over six times.

16. Pittsburgh Steelers – (2-3, Last Week: 18) Ben Roethlisberger quieted the Charlie Batch talks at least for one week. Yes, the Steelers fans want to replace a Super Bowl Champion quarterback. Bears fans have more reasons to call for Kyle Orton after Grossman turned the ball over six times.

17. New York Giants – (3-2, Last Week: 19) Everything is okay in Giant land for the time being. Then again, running back Tiki Barber says he wants to retire after this year. It’s not like he committed six turnovers in one game to warrant hanging it up.

18. Atlanta Falcons – (3-2, Last Week: 13) Inconsistent. That is all I can say about them. They rush for a million yards one week, then turn the ball over six times the next. Only when they do it, they do not tend to win the game.

19. New York Jets – (3-3, Last Week: 20) Another team trying to find an identity. They looked great the first couple of weeks, but they almost blew a lead against a woeful Miami team. Don’t worry, I have no way to relate six turnovers and winning a game to the Jets.

20. Tennessee Titans – (1-5, Last Week: 29) From here on out, it gets ugly. They beat the Redskins, who should just throw in the towel for the season.

21. Detroit Lions – (1-5, Last Week: 31) Huge jump because they actually won a game. Well that and the people below deserve to be dropped on their heads.

22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – (1-4, Last Week: 30) Ah, the third of the three winless teams that decided to shock the world. Only problem is they should not have won. A quarterback getting sacked is not a penalty.

23. Kansas City Chiefs – (2-3, Last Week: 17) Do you know what was a penalty? Watching the Chiefs play the Steelers.

24. Green Bay Packers – (1-4, Last Week: 26) Hey, I stopped the six turnover references!

25. Cleveland Browns – (1-4, Last Week: 27) Aren’t you happy? I am. But don’t worry, there is one more to come.

26. Buffalo Bills – (2-4, Last Week: 21) The Lions were due for a win. And it is not like the Bills are going anywhere this year. Well, besides down.

27. San Francisco 49ers – (2-4, Last Week: 24) LT plus the 49ers defense equals laughable.

28. Houston Texans – (1-4, Last Week: 23) If Mario Williams would have sacked Drew Bledsoe, Terrell Owens would not have had all those touchdowns. Well that or anyone else on the defense for that matter.

29. Miami Dolphins – (1-5, Last Week: 28) They put Marcus Vick on the roster – at wide receiver. Someone needs to tell Nick Saban to move him to quarterback, and maybe the team will win another game.

30. Washington Redskins – (2-4, Last Week: 22) They lost to the Titans. Is there anything worse that happened this week in football? I can think of one.

31. Arizona Cardinals – (1-5, Last Week: 25) Oh my god. Force six turnovers in one game. Do not allow one offense touchdown. Score 23 points. And the Cardinals still lose. Denny Green better put his house up for sale, because he will not be there when this season is over.

32. Oakland Raiders – (0-5, Last Week: 32) The Broncos go another week without surrendering a touchdown, and the Raiders go another week without scoring a touchdown. At least now the Raiders can say they are officially the worst team in the league, being the only one without a win.

ESPN Power Rankings as always. Okay, I’ll admit it. Mike Golic kicks butt right now.
ESPN’s Power Rankings

Random Sports Thoughts

As I sit here watching the Mets beat up on the Cardinals, I decided to write about the events of the weekend. Some were good, some were bad, and some just make you want to shake your head in dismay. They all add up to a crazy weekend in sports.

The Miami U and Florida International brawl

Disgrace. That is the one of many words that could be used to describe this incident. It was announced that 31 players, for now, have been suspended. That is not enough. Suspend every last player – for the season. They deserve it. Scholarships should be taken away, and players kicked off the team.

It won’t happen of course, at least not at Miami U. Their tradition of a high powered, prestigious football school will win out. That is almost just as disgraceful as the brawl itself.

Oklahoma’s Adrian Peterson breaks collarbone

What a way to end a career for this potentially future NFL star running back. Peterson makes a few great moves for a touchdown, and has a random hard fall to end his season. It would be nice to see him come back to compete for a national championship, but that likely not happen.

The worst part is what ESPN’s Sportscenter to tell people about the injury. All they said initially was something to the extent of, “it is a sad day as a great running back has a career ending injury.” Made it sound way worse than it really was. I really wish they would not do that.

The Tigers

This was another prediction gone horribly wrong for me. Not only did the Tigers beat the Oakland Athletics, they outright slaughtered them. How is a team that that swept the Twins so easily disposed of by a team that was falling apart at the end of the season?

Well, one thing is for certain. The Tigers can sit back, relax and watch the Mets and Cardinals tire each other out while they set their rotation and rest up. They have to be the favorites going into the World Series. Oh, and they have home field advantage to boot thanks to that all-important All-Star Game.

The Saints impressive start

Who outside of New Orleans would have predicted a 5-1 start for the Saints? They knocked off the Eagles 27-24 today to get to that point, and they continue to prove people wrong week after week. The combination of Drew Brees, Deuce McAllister, Reggie Bush and Joe Horn, not to mention a solid defense, seems to be doing the job thus far.

Will this team make the playoffs? I am not sure, but I hope so. They are fun to watch, and they are keeping the morale of an entire city up. You cannot ask for anything more from a football team.

The Hockey Season

Hey, did you know the hockey season started two weeks ago? Unless you are from Canada or Detroit, the answer to that question is probably no.

Do I have anything to say about it? Not really, besides the fact I joined a fantasy hockey team on yahoo, and will play it without knowing really anything. Should be fun.

It is still better than NASCAR.

The Final Word

I will finish this by talking about Cleveland sports for a moment.

The Indians disappointing season ended at the beginning of this month. They cut ties with Aaron Boone, and exercised options on Jake Westbrook and Casey Blake. Those were a good start to the off season, and here is the next step. Make a trade, Jeremy Guthrie and another pitcher to Tampa Bay for Jorge Cantu. The team needs a legitimate second baseman, and this is certainly that guy. Not like this will happen, but I can dream.

The Browns at least were not expected to do much. What makes it worse is that they could be over .500 right now, if they would just go out and get a real offensive line. Every year they say it is better, every year it looks terrible. This team will never be any good unless this team has a line that can protect the quarterback.

Is it basketball season yet? The Cavaliers are the one team Cleveland fans can be proud of. LeBron James and company should be a guarantee to make the playoffs again. The goal now is at least the Eastern Conference finals. The season cannot start soon enough.

2006 NFL Match-Up Picks

Last Week's Record: 12-2 (85.7%)
Season Record: 51-23 (68.9%)
Locks of the Week: 6-2 (75.0%)

I figured out the key to making predictions last week. Wait until I am about ready to fall asleep so I do not think too hard about them. I did it at the last moment Saturday night last week, and I will try it again this week.

Six teams on byes? That does not seem right. Only 13 games to choose from, but I guess that is the way that things go. At least this week I do not have to watch my beloved Brownies get their butts kicked.

Buffalo at Detroit

Buffalo has this game for sure. For one, this is game six, and they have consistently lost a game, won a game, lost a game, won a game, lost a game last week, so they have to win this game. Well that and they are facing the Lions, who do not win any week.

Pick: Buffalo Bills

Carolina at Baltimore

This is a potential game of the week. The game will be low scoring, but last week’s war between the Broncos might leave the Ravens a bit beaten up. Not to mention Carolina is undefeated since getting Steve Smith back.

Pick: Carolina Panthers

Cincinnati at Tampa Bay

As much as it would be nice to see the Buccaneers win a game and leave the winless group of losers, it will have to wait more week. The Bengals had two weeks to prepare for this game. Losing it would be devastating.

Lock Pick of the Week: Cincinnati Bengals

Houston at Dallas

You could call it the battle of Texas, or you could called it the slaughtering of the Texans. Both titles would apply.

Pick: Dallas Cowboys

N.Y. Giants at Atlanta

The Falcons are coming off a bye, which means Michael Vick should be near 100 percent. That means he will be fully capable of running around all day. That is not good news for the Giant defense.

Pick: Atlanta Falcons

Philadelphia at New Orleans

An interesting game between two teams with 4-1 records. One is overrated, and the other overachieving. Most weeks, the Eagles would take this game, but if Brian Westbrook does not play, then the Saints might be able to steal away another victory.

Pick: Philadelphia Eagles

Seattle at St. Louis

This game pits another pair of one-loss teams facing off. The favorites are probably the Seahawks, but I would beg to differ. No Shaun Alexander, and no real consistent offense from Seattle period. The Rams also have home field advantages, which may be huge.

Pick: St. Louis Rams

Tennessee at Washington

Seriously, I am not wasting my energy making stuff up.

Pick: Washington Redskins

Kansas City at Pittsburgh

The Steelers are bad. They do no look bad, they just are bad. The Chiefs just have to play like they have the past two weeks, and the Steelers can continue to be bad.

Pick: Kansas City Chiefs

Miami at N.Y. Jets

Joey Harrington versus… it really does not matter.

Pick: N.Y. Jets

San Diego at San Francisco

This one is a toughie. I bet a team with the word “San” in thier name will win the game. Yeah, I know, I am hilarious. This game will be too.

Lock Pick of the Week: San Diego Chargers

Oakland at Denver

Broncos pitch a shutout unless the Raiders score on defense or special teams.

Pick: Denver Broncos

Chicago at Arizona

The Cardinal fans get to see what a complete, dominant, playoff-bound team looks like this week first hand. Maybe, some day, they will have one of those too.

Pick: Chicago Bears

Here are those other predictions as always:
ESPN Experts' Picks
Sunshine Forecast Free Weekly Picks

NFL Power Rankings after Week 5

Order has been restored to the NFL, or at least for one week. Most of the teams that should have won did. There were only a couple of surprises, but more in terms of the closeness of some games, and the lack of closeness in others. The Colts barely edged out a victory over the Titans, and the Jaguars obliterating the Jets. I was expecting a reversal in terms of the two games.

Is there a new number one? Of course not. The Bears rule.

1. Chicago Bears – (5-0, Last Week: 1) It is hard to think of a different way to say the Bears are unbeatable each week. So I’ll it in terms of a James Bond movie. Who would they be? James Bond, of course. They always win, always get the girl, and look great in the process.

2. Denver Broncos – (3-1, Last Week: 4) One touchdown allowed in four games. As dominant as the Bears’ defense is, this one might be better. Too bad their offense looks like the Bears’ as well - the offense from last season that is.

3. Indianapolis Colts – (5-0, Last Week: 2) Those Titans are a tough bunch. It was amazing the Colts won the game. Peyton Manning, aka Miss Moneypenny, should be ashamed. Why is Manning like Moneypenny you ask? Because he gets the attention of the great teams, but can never win them over. In other words, neither he nor Moneypenny ever bring home the ultimate prize.

4. San Diego Chargers – (3-1, Last Week: 5) A win over the Pittsburg Steelers does not mean as much as it did in the beginning of the season. The meaningful part is that they bounced back well after blowing a lead in the final minute of last week’s game against the Ravens.

5. New England Patriots – (3-1, Last Week: 6) A win over the Miami Dolphins does not mean as much as it did in the beginning of the season. The meaningful part is that they continue to dominate the teams in their division.

6. Baltimore Ravens – (4-1, Last Week: 3) If punter Sam Koch does not shank one in the fourth quarter, the Ravens might have at least taken the Broncos’ game into overtime. It is those little things that separate the good teams from the great ones.

7. Cincinnati Bengals – (3-1, Last Week: 7) They got an extra week to game plan for Tampa Bay. I really do not think they needed it.

8. Seattle Seahawks – (3-1, Last Week: 8) The Seahawks, on the other hand, have to go see the Rams, who are 4-1, after their bye. Yeah, that is correct. The Rams are 4-1. Hope the Seahawks realize this, because the game is anything but a guaranteed victory.

9. St. Louis Rams – (4-1, Last Week: 15) No one else will give this team any credit, so I will. Check out how many interceptions Marc Bulger has thrown. Zero. His passes are like James Bond’s bullets – they never miss. They say win the turnover battleand you win the game. I guess its true after all.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – (3-2, Last Week: 10) The Jaguars needed to make a statement, and they did that against the Jets. This team is on the cusp of being great, they just need to string together some victories.

11. Philadelphia Eagles – (4-1, Last Week: 11) I am not sold on this team, and I finally realized why. They are a NFC version of the Colts of a couple of years ago. They have a high-octane offense with a shady defense. Put them up against a tough opponent, and they will likely crumble.

12. Minnesota Vikings – (3-2, Last Week: 14) Much like the Colts did with the Titans, the Vikings played down to their opponent this week and nearly lost to the Lions. That could have been a monumental moral killer, but they found a way to win the game. That or the Lions found a way to lose it.

13. Atlanta Falcons – (3-1, Last Week: 12) They drop a spot because they did not win this week. What, they were on a bye? Well they did not win, so I had to drop them.

14. Carolina Panthers – (3-2, Last Week: 16) Julius Peppers chased Charlie Frye all over the place Sunday. He may have only recorded one sack, but just ask Charlie, who is still icing down the bruises left by Peppers and the rest of the Panther’s front seven.

15. New Orleans Saints – (4-1, Last week: 19) If this season was a James Bond movie, the Saints would be hearing from their opponents, “Why won’t you just die?!?!” If they can de-flight the Eagles this Sunday, the playoffs might not be out of the question.

16. Dallas Cowboys – (2-2, Last Week: 9) There is no quarterback controversy. Tony Romo will not be the starter until the Cowboys are mathematically eliminated from the playoffs or Bledsoe goes down with an injury. Stop asking.

17. Kansas City Chiefs – (2-2, Last Week: 21) Damon Huard is going to be seen as the savior of this season if he can keep the Chief’s offense running smooth until Trent Green returns. Pittsburgh is next, and they will not be more beatable than they are right now.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – (1-3, Last Week: 13) If the Steelers are wondering where rock bottom is, they just have to ask the Oakland Raiders, who have permanent residence there. But they could always use new neighbors.

19. New York Giants – (2-2, Last Week: 22) They beat an inconsistent Redskins team, but a win is a win and they are back to .500. This does not warrant playoff talk yet, so stop thinking about that Manning versus Manning Super Bowl. It is not happening.

20. New York Jets – (2-3, Last Week: 17) If the game against the Jaguars was a scene from a Bond movie, the Jets would have been that guy who gets shot 15 times with an machine gun and falls through a glass window to his death. Just not pretty.

21. Buffalo Bills – (2-3, Last Week: 18) See above.

22. Washington Redskins – (2-3, Last Week: 20) Guess they did not want to get over the .500 mark. Not only did they lose to the Giants, but they looked bad doing it. Want some good news Redskin fans? They have Tennessee next week.

23. Houston Texans – (1-3, Last Week: 24) There is nothing nice to say about a 1-3 team coming off a bye who is about to be beaten senseless by the Cowboys. So I’m just going to keep tradition and say Mario Williams had another bad week, recording zero tackles.

24. San Francisco 49ers – (2-3, Last Week: 29) They beat the Raiders. That calls for celebration. Well maybe not, but it gives them a boost in the rankings.

25. Arizona Cardinals – (1-4, Last Week: 25) Matt Lienart had a nice day in his first professional start. Too bad his team still lost after blowing a double digit lead. There is always next year.

26. Green Bay Packers – (1-4, Last Week: 26) They played the underrated Rams tough, but like many other weeks, came up short. The team tries hard, but it lacks talent.

27. Cleveland Browns – (1-4, Last Week: 23) If Charlie Frye was in a Bond movie, he would be the Bond car, taking loads of unnecessary punishment. He may be able to escape taking many sacks, but the number of times he has been hit is mounting quickly.

28. Miami Dolphins – (1-4, Last Week: 28) The team has turned to Joey Harrington. Someone needs to tell coach Nick Saban the best quarterback he has on the roster is playing wide receiver on the practice squad. Marcus Vick cannot do worse than what they already have at the position.

29. Tennessee Titans – (0-5, Last Week: 30) If the Titans would have held on for the upset against the Colts, they would have been my new favorite team. Guess that Vince Young mystique is only good for college.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – (0-4, Last Week: 27) Props to another Mid-American Conference quarterback, Bruce Gradkowski, for having a solid game in his first NFL start. Too bad he could not get the Bucs elusive first win in the process.

31. Detroit Lions – (0-5, Last Week: 31) Like the Titans, the Lions almost came away with a victory. Kind of like how they almost beat the Seahawks in week one. Or how they almost beat the Bears – no, wait, that was a slaughtering. Never mind.

32. Oakland Raiders – (0-4, Last Week: 32) If the Raiders were in a Bond movie, they would be the evil villain. No one likes them, they have a huge ego, and they never win. Too bad “James Bond” will not be playing them this season. The Raiders, rather than the world, would be the ones needed saving.


ESPN Power Rankings. Okay, I’ll admit it. Mike Golic kicks butt right now.
ESPN’s Power Rankings

MLB Predictions for ALCS and NLCS 2006

Ouch.

As bad as I was during the regular season making picks, I was even worse in the first round of the playoffs. I really should not have tried to guess the entire baseball playoffs at one time, seeing as I went 0 for 4 on predictions. That is beyond sad.

Props to the Tigers, who I wanted to win but did not see it happening. Anytime the Yankees lose, it is a good thing.

The Cardinals, who limped into the playoffs, turned the lights back and took care of the Padres with relative ease. The way they did that was just astonishing. If they can continue to succeed without closer Jason Isringhausen, then they are that much better of a complete team. Good thing they have that Pujols person, he is supposedly pretty good.

The Mets were the best team in baseball at times during the season. But losing two of their starters, Pedro Martinez and Orlando Hernandez, could have been disastrous. After watching them take care of the Dodgers with ease, it must not have been too big of a deal.

The Athletics finally got over their Divisional Series woes, beating up on the formerly hottest team in baseball, the Twins. Can they take out the other American League Central powerhouse Detroit for a trip to the World Series? We’ll find out.

Do I dare make more predictions? I probably do not deserve to, but I will anyway.

ALCS – Detroit Tigers versus Oakland Athletics

These are two very good teams, both of which could take this series. Unlike the ALDS, this series should not be a sweep or quick five game series. The Athletics, when it is all said and done, have the better pitching staff. That factor might be enough to take them to the show, but the Tigers will not go down without a fight.

Pick: Oakland Athletics

NLCS – New York Mets versus St. Louis Cardinals

Apparently, that limp both teams had going into the playoffs healed up fairly quickly. The Mets have a depleted starting rotation, where as the Cardinals have the more shaky bullpen. Where is the edge to be found between these two teams? That is simple. His name is Albert Pujols. Met pitchers beware.

Pick: St. Louis Cardinals

With these picks being said, look for a Tiger-Met World Series seeing as I cannot pick baseball for the life of me this year. On a side note, at least I went 12-2 in football this week. That magic touch is back after a two-week hiccup.

2006 NFL Week 5 Match-Up Picks

Last Week's Record: 8-6 (57.1%)
Season Record: 39-21 (65.0%)
Locks of the Week: 5-2 (71.4%)

Dismal is the only word to describe my picks last week. I am not sure why it went so badly, but I was off the mark. The goal for this week is to get back to the double digit mark in correct picks.

It would help if some teams would just be consistent. Is that too much to ask? I guess it is if you look at the shake up of my power rankings. Either way, this still went better than my MLB playoff picks, as my World Series pick got eliminated in three games. I think I jinxed them or something.

Buffalo at Chicago

This one is easy. The Bears are unbeatable, and the Bills are consistently inconsistent. The game probably will not even be close.

Lock Pick of the Week: Chicago Bears

Cleveland at Carolina

The Browns are coming off an impressive come from behind win. The Panthers have saved their season thanks to Steve Smith. As much as I hope that the Browns pull this one out, they will likely come up just short and the Panthers will continue to gain momentum.

Pick: Carolina Panthers

Detroit at Minnesota

The Vikings are coming off a couple of tough losses. The Lions excel at finding ways to lose. The Vikings not only need the win more, but they probably want it more as well. The Lions will have to wait at least one more week before picking up that elusive win.

Pick: Minnesota Vikings

Miami at New England

This game will not be pretty. The Dolphins can not expect to come into the Patriot’s house and put up a fight with their pitiful offense. No need to watch this one.

Pick: New England Patriots

St. Louis at Green Bay

The Rams are 3-1, and no one is talking about them. Unless Brett Favre and company make a heroic effort, the Rams will be the quietest 4-1 team after the week is over.

Pick: St. Louis Rams

Tampa Bay at New Orleans

The Buccaneers need a win badly. Only problem is that the Saints have played good football all year long. The Superdome will help out again as the Saints take one over the crippled team from the bay.

Pick: New Orleans Saints

Tennessee at Indianapolis

This is another game that should not count as a victory for the Colts. Win will be by at least 17 points, probably more.

Pick: Indianapolis Colts

Washington at N.Y. Giants

A tale of two teams going in opposite directions. The Redskins seemed to have figured out their playbook. The Giants on the other hand, need to sing some song together to get some chemistry going. This game will be close, but Santana Moss will find a way to help the Redskins steal the game away.

Pick: Washington Redskins

Kansas City at Arizona

Who fixed the Chiefs so quickly? And is there anything that will fix the Cardinals? At least one thing is for certain – the Cardinals are not a playoff team. As long as the Chiefs play like they did last week, this game will not be close.

Pick: Kansas City Chiefs

N. Y. Jets at Jacksonville

The Jets have played great games all year. The Jaguars have lost a couple in a row, but play much better at home. This might be one of the best games of the week, and it should go down to the wire. The home team will find a way to get back on track.

Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars

Oakland at San Francisco

One is the number of total wins between these two teams. One is also the number of people that will watch this game on TV. One is still one more than the total number of wins the Raiders will have after this game.

Pick: San Francisco 49ers

Dallas at Philadelphia

Forget all the circus act crap that has gone on all week. This game should be amazing. Two great teams going at it, division rivals to boot. The Cowboys have a stronger team with a better defense, and it will get them through this game.

Pick: Dallas Cowboys

Pittsburgh at San Diego

The Super Bowl champs are reeling. What is the best cure for a couple of tough losses? Well whatever it is, it certainly is not the San Diego Chargers. They lost to an AFC North team last week in the Ravens. It will not happen again.

Pick: San Diego Chargers

Baltimore at Denver

Low scoring will be the definition of this game. It could come down to a defense turnover leading to a score, or maybe a special teams play. It will be a fun one to watch Monday night.

Pick: Denver Broncos

And like last week, if you want some other thoughts, check out the following sites.
ESPN Experts' Picks
Sunshine Forecast Free Weekly Picks

***Note: Will add more links later. Too tired to right now.***

NFL Power Rankings after Week 4

Well power rankings would not be fun if they did not change week to week. After week four’s games, there were some major shake ups in my list. The cream of the crop has risen to the top, while the JV teams of the league have secured their place at the bottom. One constant remains though – the Bears rule.

1. Chicago Bears – (4-0, Last Week: 1) Are you kidding me? Did the Seahawks even bother to show up? The Bears led them into Soldier Field, then tore them limb from limb. I can think of only one team that can beat this team right now – the ’85 Bears.

2. Indianapolis Colts – (4-0, Last Week: 4) By process of elimination, the Colts rise to number two. As much as I hate to see a team that is a guaranteed playoff choke-job rise this high, there is no one left to put above them.

3. Baltimore Ravens – (4-0, Last Week: 7) Two last minute wins in as many weeks. This might be the reason they brought in Steve McNair. Whatever the case, they are one of only three unbeaten teams remaining. Oh, and that defense shut down the Charger attack with relative ease.

4. Denver Broncos – (2-1, Last Week: 8) Another team that rises simply because everyone loses, but they did not even have to win to do it. I guess the best way to look at it is this way – the defense did not give up a touchdown again.

5. San Diego Chargers – (2-1, Last Week: 5) Talk about having a win stolen from you. Or maybe those two wins against Oakland and San Diego made the Chargers look better than they really are. I’ll go with the former for now, but they better win next week.

6. New England Patriots – (2-1, Last Week: 15) My bad. I doubted Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. I blame ESPN for this one. They repeated it over and over that they were in trouble, and I fell for it. Just ask the Bengals, they know better than to think the Pats are over the hill.

7. Cincinnati Bengals – (3-1, Last Week: 2) Beat the Super Bowl champs one week, then get humbled by the former Super Bowl champs the next. What happened? They were even on their own home turf. There is no excuse for this blunder, except that the Patriots are still an AFC powerhouse.

8. Seattle Seahawks – (3-1, Last Week: 3) People could argue that the Seahawks should drop more, having only played one good game in four weeks. But with no Shaun Alexander against the Bears, the loss should not have come as a surprise. What was a surprise then? The Bears humiliating them 37-9.

9. Dallas Cowboys – (2-1, Last Week: 11) “The Cowboys move up after their impressive win over the lowly Titans. Wait, you said that game hasn’t happened yet? Sorry to spoil the ending for you. Now you don’t have to watch it,” said I last week. See, told you so.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – (2-2, Last Week: 6) They may have lost in overtime to the Redskins, but this team is still impressive. They will be in the playoffs when it is all said and done. They just need to be more consistent.

11. Philadelphia Eagles – (3-1, Last Week: 12) This team is so-so at best. They have not beaten anyone yet, and this past Monday night against the Packers was no exception. Beat Dallas, and maybe they have something. But unlike some NFL experts, I do not see it happening.

12. Atlanta Falcons – (3-1, Last Week: 14) Run. That is all the Falcons have to do to win. Run. Two hundred-yard rushers again. Run. Keep doing it over and over. Do not pass and this team will win. Just run.

13. Pittsburgh Steelers – (1-2, Last Week: 10) The Steelers continue to fall, and life does not get easier. A disgruntled Charger team that is coming off a loss is awaiting Big Ben and company to show up on their turf. Their fall from grace may continue.

14. Minnesota Vikings – (2-2, Last Week: 9) Losing to the Bills? That will not help their playoff chances. Losing to the Bears is one thing, but the Bills? Do not worry. There is relief on the way – the Lions are coming to down.

15. St. Louis Rams – (3-1, Last Week: 18) This might be the quietest 3-1 team in the league. Want to know something even more interesting? If they did not lay an egg against the 49ers in the week two, they would be undefeated. Yeah, think about that.

16. Carolina Panthers – (2-2, Last Week: 17) Record without Steve Smith is 0-2. Record with Steve Smith is 2-0. I think I figured out the key to success for the Panthers. Defensive coordinators better figure this out as well, and take him out if they want to win.

17. New York Jets – (2-2, Last Week: 13) Even though I picked the Colts in my predictions, I was hoping the Jets would pull off the upset last week. That kick off return lateral fiasco was fun to watch. So close, too bad they were not playing horseshoes.

18. Buffalo Bills – (2-2, Last Week: 22) Would this team make up its darn mind? I cannot figure this team out at all. Lose, win, lose, win, and looking ahead to next week, they have Chicago. I know the result – lose. Back down they will go.

19. New Orleans Saints – (3-1, Last week: 16) They finally lost, but they still played the Panthers tough. It would be nice to see this team continue to do well. They have a very beatable Tampa Bay up next. As long as Reggie Bush stops degrading every week, this team should stay competitive.

20. Washington Redskins – (2-2, Last Week: 23) Mark Brunell solved the 500-page playbook. Or maybe it was the return of Clinton Portis. Maybe it was a bit of both. Either way, the team looks much better.

21. Kansas City Chiefs – (1-2, Last Week: 27) Looks like the bye week helped the Chiefs get their offense back on track. San Francisco probably did no expect 41 points from a team led by 10-year journeyman Damon Huard. Let’s see if he can do it again next week.

22. New York Giants – (1-2, Last Week: 21) This team got a week to find itself. There has been no real news all week from them. That could be a good thing. Washington is up next, and it could be a potential make or break game.

23. Cleveland Browns – (1-3, Last Week: 28) Okay, so maybe beating the Raiders does not deserve a jump like this. But look at it this way. They came back from a 21-3 deficit. Rueben Droughns rushed for a 100 yards. That’s something to be proud of.

24. Houston Texans – (1-3, Last Week: 30) Mario Williams has been the butt of my Texan jokes for the past three weeks. This week, he did his job. Recording one and a half sacks and tipping the potential game-tying two-point conversion attempt makes for a good game. Still, those sacks were the only tackles he had in the game.

25. Arizona Cardinals – (1-3, Last Week: 19) Okay, so now Kurt Warner is no longer the starter. The part I found funny was that Matt Lienart was brought in to cut down on turnovers. What did he do first thing? Fumble the ball and turn it over. Then he threw an interception later. Way to cut down on those turnovers. Not.

26. Green Bay Packers – (1-3, Last Week: 20) It’s hard not to feel for Brett Favre. The man is very tough. But even he got knocked out of the game Monday night. Next up for Favre is a duel with another gun slinging quarterback, Marc Bulger.

27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – (0-3, Last Week: 26) Rookie Bruce Gradkowski will make his first start this Sunday. Want to feel better Bucs fans? He is a Mid-American Conference quarterback. Who else is a MAC quarterback? Chad Pennington, Ben Roethlisberger, Byron Leftwich, Charlie Frye and even Charlie Batch. That is good company.

28. Miami Dolphins – (1-3, Last Week: 24) Could this team be any more disappointing? I am lost for words on what to say about them. Maybe this is their goal, to be like last year. A slow first half followed with a strong second half. Wait, they did not make the playoffs last year doing that. It will not be any different this year either.

29. San Francisco 49ers – (1-3, Last Week: 25) Well Alex Smith is still growing, and last week against the Chiefs was a definite bump in the road. At least unlike the Dolphins, this team was not supposed to go to the playoffs.

30. Tennessee Titans – (0-4, Last Week: 29) Ah, the bottom three. This is where the lowest of the low dwell. The Titans got beat bad by the Cowboys last Sunday. This Sunday, the Colts will beat them even worse.

31. Detroit Lions – (0-4, Last Week: 31) Well, they almost won. And eventually, someday, unlike the Titans or Raiders, they should realistically be the favorites to win a game. But until that day, here they will stay.

32. Oakland Raiders – (0-3, Last Week: 32) How do you blow an 18-point lead? Just ask the Raiders, they did it against the Browns. That might have been their best shot at a win for quite some time. I’m sure Art Shell is happy he came back to coach.

And here are those ESPN Power Rankings for those who think they know what they are talking about more so than I do.
ESPN’s Power Rankings

MLB Playoff Predictions 2006

The best month of the year is finally year, October. The NFL is in full swing, the NBA starts at the end of the month, but most importantly, its playoff time in baseball. There were a couple of surprises this year, with some teams like the Detroit Tigers overachieving, and other teams like the Cleveland Indians who never got it together.

The bottom line is there are eight teams remaining, and I’m going to try and do a better job of predicting the playoffs than I did predicting the regular season. I managed to get zero – yes zero – American League teams correct. The National League I did a little better with two, but 25 percent is a bad mark. Pretty sad considering baseball is my favorite sport.

I had some bold predictions as well, which also didn’t get so well. I got the Barry Bonds part right about breaking Babe Ruth’s record, but not being out of baseball. I wish it was vise versa. Ken Griffey only played in 109 games, but did hit 27 homers and had a nice season. There were 11 guys who stole 40 or more bases, and Prince Fielder had a nice season, but won’t win the rookie of year. Brian Anderson, well, that one was not even close.
I am not giving up however, and will try to redeem myself now. Eight teams go in, one team comes out. It is time to figure out who that team will be.

American League Division Series

Oakland versus Minnesota
A battle between two of the smaller market teams in the MLB. The Twins have increased payroll over the past few years, but it is still small compared to a lot of teams. Throwing money aside, these are two teams with great pitching. Both teams were ranked top 10 in the league in ERA, with Minnesota third and Oakland seven.
The big difference, however, is in hitting. Oakland was a lowly 25th overall hitting, where as Minnesota was number one. They say great pitching beats great hitting, but when one team has both, they get the edge.

Pick: Minnesota Twins

New York Yankees versus Detroit Tigers
The Tigers were the feel good story of the year. The Yankees are their usual evil empire self. It would be great to see Detroit take down George Steinbrenner’s group of mercenaries, but they have played so poorly this past month, losing the AL central to Minnesota, that the chances are unlikely.
The Tigers have the talent to pull it off in a five-game series, but with Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield back, not to mention seasoned veterans in Randy Johnson and Mike Mussina to anchor the rotation, Tiger fans might have to settle with just making it to the playoffs as a successful season . Let’s hope I’m wrong.

Pick: New York Yankees

National League Division Series

St. Louis Cardinals versus San Diego Padres

Much like the Tigers, the Cardinals are limping into the playoffs. The team picked by everyone to represent the NL in the World Series now looks like a team who wants the season to be over. The way the Padres are playing, they will be happy to help them on their way.
Besides the fact the Padres look like the better team, they have a veteran team with stars like Trevor Hoffman, Brian Giles and David Wells, who all deserve a shot at a World Series ring. At the same time, you have to feel for the Cardinals, who do not look like the team they did even a few months ago.

Pick: San Diego Cardinals

Los Angeles Dodgers versus New York Mets

This might be the most exciting match up in the divisional round. Both teams are playing well, with the Dodgers having been in a virtual playoff with both the Padres and Philadelphia Phillies for the past week.
The big problem is that the Mets are without Pedro Martinez. The rest of their rotation is average at best. The Dodgers on the other hand, have a rotation that should take them deep in the playoffs. In this scenario, pitching is what will make the difference.

Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers

American League Championship

Minnesota Twins versus New York Yankees

Imagine having to face Johann Santana three times in seven games. If it comes to that, the Yankees will not have the best chances in the world. If the Twins would have Francisco Liriano as well, the series would be a shoe in.
The Yankees have their mystique on their side, and Derek Jeter, but this might be asking for too much. I think I know their problem – not a high enough payroll.

Pick: Minnesota Twins

National League Championship

San Diego versus Los Angeles

Who would have guessed at the beginning of the season that two NL West teams would make the playoffs? And on top of that, that the two would make it to the NLCS? Well that is what I’m seeing, seeing as these are the hottest teams in baseball outside of the Twins.
This series could go either way. I see seven games of suspense awaiting these two teams. Not sure who to give the edge to, so we’ll base it off their regular season series. That and here’s to hoping Trevor Hoffman gets his ring.

Pick: San Diego Padres

World Series

San Diego versus Minnesota

Well it might be east coast versus west coast, but sponsors will not be happy about these teams being in the playoffs. But if they both make it, at least the two best teams will be there, and that is what matters.
Again, the possibility of Santana starting three of the seven games is a less than pleasant thought for the Padre line up. Not to mention Brad Radke is pitching through pain, and doing a great job of it. The Padres will play them tough, but the Twins will be the second AL central team in as many years to bring home the title.

Pick: Minnesota Twins

I wonder if I’ll get any of these predictions right. I can’t do much worse than I did with the regular season predictions. Though for sake of favoritism, go Padres.