Seau death officially ruled a suicide, Mo go for the season?

With Wednesday came the devastating news of Junior Seau’s death. The death has been officially ruled as a suicide by the medical examiner.

Big hits are a part of football. You take away big hits, I guarantee people will stop watching it (with good reason). People watch for the big hits and the scampering running back, dashing across the field like a men among boys. We not only lost a great player in Seau’s death, but an amazing person as well.

It’s sad to think that football may have ultimately caused this death. We’ve never had these concussion problems before (pre 1990s), but now everyone’s anxious to tell their story of battered brains and hurt souls.

Thankfully, the Seau family will allow an examination of Junior’s brain. This will greatly help the NFL determine exactly how football affects the brain.

Thank you, Seau family. RIP Junior.

On to baseball:

Sad news comin’ out of New York: Mariano Rivera tore his ACL in pre-game on Thursday. He is ruled out for the rest of the young 2012 season. The question is: Have we seen him pitch his last innings in the majors? As a baseball fan, you’ve gotta feel bad for Mo.

Kung Fu Panda (Pablo Sandoval) has a hand injury that puts him back four to six weeks. This is a crushing blow to the Giants, who can’t possibly replace the production of big boy Panda. At least they’ll get him back by the middle of June.

Albert Pujols is still homer-less this season (yay).

Basketball time:

The Knicks are down 0-3 in their 1^st Round series to the Miami Heat. This season has been one of highs and lows for the Knicks, and right now they can’t find the groove. Let me tell you, they were leading at halftime last night 40-36 and I was confident they could come at least withink 10. But no, LeFlop has to score eight straight points in the fourth quarter for the Miami Heat.

Go Knicks!

Weaver tosses no-hitter, Rangers up 2-1

Yesterday, we all learned of the death of former linebacker Junior Seau. Seau committed suicide in his San Diego home without leaving a note. We all remember Seau from his time with the Chargers, whom he spent 13 years of his 20 year career. Many sports analysts believe Seau’s suicide could have resulted from the head injuries caused by playing football. If this is true, look for the NFL to become the No Fun League, because at this rate the players will need bubble wrap pretty soon.

Gaborik’s goal in the 3rd OT puts Rangers over Caps 2-1, leading the series 2-1.

Jered Weaver pitched the 2nd no-hitter of the season last night against the Twins.  Of course, it came against the worst team in the league. How can a team with Joe Mauer be the worst? Wouldn’t that guarantee you a top 25 spot?

What do you guys think of Bryce Harper? I think he’s very good for a 19-year-old.

Great time to be a sports fan

Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite months of sports. You’ve got the NBA Playoffs finally underway after a drama-filled regular season. The Stanley Cup Playoffs are always exciting, since the dynamic of a game can change in a flash. Between one moment and the next is a period of “What’s gonna happen next?” In basketball, you know after every score it takes about 10 seconds to bring the ball to half-court, which creates less drama then a 2-1 hockey game.

Plus, baseball is finding it’s groove around this time (too bad Albert Pujols hasn’t). By the way, Matt Kemp is a monster. If he even remotely produces like this for the rest of the season, he’ll be a frontrunner for the MVP race.

On to basketball:

The Knicks play Game 3 tomorrow night at the Garden against the Miami Heat. It would be an understatement to say this has been disappointing playoffs so far for the Knicks. First, they embarrass themselves by losing “Bobcats style” in Game 1. Next, they lose Game 2 by a frustrating 10 points.

This season’s had more drama then a bad soap opera for the Knicks! I’m not going to recap that (it would take thousands of words), but we did here an interesting story break yesterday morning. Amar’eStoudemire committed an act of violence against himself. Out of frustration, he punched the class casing surrounding a fire extinguisher. He’s “out for [tonight’s] game and is doubtful for Game 4” (wsj.com).  If I were the Knicks, at the beginning of the season next year I would cut (pun) Amar’e. This is a disgusting act and does not help the team at all.

Or does it?

It’s been true all year: the Knicks actually play BETTER with Amar’e out of the lineup. So, will this help them out in Game’s 3 and 4? We’ll see.

When the Celtics lost Game 1, analysts were already taking them for granted and saying “Oh, they can’t win without Rondo in the lineup.” Of course, Rondo was suspended on Monday for Game 2. They said “A team without Rondo and Allen cannot beat the Hawks.” I thought the Hawks would see no Rondo or Allen and go, “We got this.” Of course, Pierce went off for 36 points. They ended up winning the game, evening up the series 1-1.

Baseball:

As we all know, Albert Pujols is in a major slump. He hasn’t hit a home run, and is hitting sub-.250. He’s got 4 RBI’s…Nobody knows what’s wrong with him so far this season. To be honest, I’m glad he’s in this slump. I’m happy because he left, no, abandoned the Cardinals with such a money-first attitude. He wasn’t concerned with winning more rings and staying loyal to his team. Nope, everyone says it’s a business. Follow the money…

Football:

BREAKING NEWS: Junior Seau is dead

Four New Orleans Saints players were suspended today for their involvement in the bounty scandal. Most significantly, Jonathan Vilma has been suspended for the entire 2012 season, effective immediately.

For more on the story, visit ESPN: http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7881761/nfl-bans-four-players-new-orleans-saints-bounty-roles

Tebowmania!

Yesterday, Tim Tebow was (twice) traded to the New York Jets. After he was dealt the first time, ESPN reported that there was a complication in the trade. So, they nullified it. It was later announced that the Jaguars were discussing Tebow with the Jets. It seemed as though the Jaguars were really looking to get him, considering Florida is where he went to college. Plus, the fans there love him. But, there was a catch to these discussions. Both teams allowed Tebow to pick where he wanted to play football.

So, he chose to take his talents to New York. Is that a good thing for the Jets? I think so, considering he’s not costing you that much money. In addition, you didn’t give away much to get him (2 low-end draft picks). If Sanchez begins to struggle (we know he will), then you can bring in the *proven* winner, Timmy Tebow.

I feel bad for those people who just bought a Tebow jersey last year…

Peyton Manning has a new team

It was announced yesterday that free agent QB Peyton Manning had chosen his new team: the Denver Broncos. At first, I was in shock that he picked them. I thought he was planning on picking either the Dolphins, the Titans (who had a great selling pitch), or the Cardinals. Honestly, I don’t think Denver is the best fit for Peyton. If he wants to win now, that team will have to add some more pieces to the puzzle.

[Related: Manning picks Denver Broncos]

I believe the Cardinals would’ve been a better choice because:

1) They play in a dome (Manning has been playing in one his whole 14 year career)

2) They have a developed running game with a decent defense

I believe the Dolphins would’ve been a better choice because:

1) Peyton has a condo and family in Miami already

2) He would excite the fans because he would be the first great QB since Mr. Marino himself

I believe the Titans would’ve been a better choice because:

1) He has a connection with the State of Tennessee: he went to college there and the UT fans would love to go watch him play

2) They offered him a job in the front office after he retires from the game

3) Free pancakes for the length of his career

What does Denver really have to offer to Peyton? Sure, Elway is the GM, but great players always turn out to be crappy executives..See Michael Jordan, Steve Kerr. They play in really inconsistent weather, plus it’s a mile up so the air is thinner. Thus, it’s harder to breath when playing there. Why would anybody want that?

Denver doesn’t have the greatest team around Manning? Sure, they’ve got a good defense led by Von Miller, but their offense without Tim Tebow was extremely anemic. With Tebow, however, they were much more dynamic and able to gain chunks of yards using the wildcat offense.

Where does this lead Timmy Tebow? The Broncos have already stated that they will trade Tebow as soon as Manning is officially signed.

Where do you think he will land?

Wrap-up: Rubio has ACL tear, Redskins nab No.2 pick

NBA 

• Ricky Rubio sustained an ACL tear last week against the Los Angeles Lakers. He is out for the rest of the season. Minnesota’s playoff hopes now look distant.

[Related: Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rubio has torn ACL ]

My take: This is a huge blow to the Timberwolves. He was the face of that franchise; actually, he still is, but now they’ll have to make the playoffs without him. Since they play in the tougher Western Conference, many people doubt they’ll be able to make a playoff run without their rookie sensation. When I first heard the news of the “general injury” (they had no idea it was an ACL), I predicted it would be an ACL tear. Just by watching him get lifted off the court by two of his teammates, I could tell it was more serious then just missing one or two weeks. We’ll have to see in the coming weeks if Kevin Love can rally this team to a playoff spot.

Rubio won't playing again till next year (businessinsider.com).

• J.R Smith was fined $25,000 by the NBA for a photo posted on Twitter. The photo showed the @$$ of Tahiry Jose, Smith’s girlfriend. Smith later said that he regretted tweeting the photo

[Related: NYK’s J.R Smith fined 25K]

My take: J.R, you are a stupid man. You are a professional basketball player currently playing in the NBA. Why are you conducting yourself like this? Didn’t you know something like this would happen? He deserves it all the way, and I really like the guy..but C’mon man!

NFL

• Peyton Manning was released by the Colts last Wednesday. Today, he is meeting with the Arizona Cardinals

[Related: Peyton Manning in Arizona]

My take: We all remember last week’s debacle with the Indianapolis Colts releasing Peyton Manning. He is arguably the most accurate quarterback in the history of the game, and some have proclaimed him as the best regular-season quarterback ever. I figured all along that the Colts would release him and draft Luck/RGIII. It came as no surprise to me, but ESPN made a big deal of it so I was cool with following the story. Where do you guys think he’ll end up?

• The Redskins traded a couple 1st Round picks for this year’s No.2 selection. Specifically, they traded their 1st Rounders for ’12, ’13, and ’14. Also, they traded a 2nd Rounder for 2012.

[Related: Redskins get No.2 overall pick]

My take: This is a great trade for both teams. The Redskins are investing in their future by drafting RGIII/Luck. On the other hand, the Rams are investing in their future by nabbing 3 1st Round picks and a 2nd Rounder. Now, the question is who will the Colts pick in the draft? Most people are saying whoever the Colts don’t pick, the Redskins will pick them. The deal can only be made official after Tuesday (when the new league year starts).

That’s my recap for this week. Comments are appreciated!

Follow @TheSportzGuru

Rams Trade No. 2 Pick to Redskins

Yesterday, it was reported that the Rams had traded their No.2 overall pick to the Redskins. The news came out around 8 o’Clock last night. In exchange for the No 2 pick in the 2012 Draft, the Redskins are sending their 1st rRounders for 2012, 2013, and 2014. In addition, the Rams get the 2nd Round pick currently held by the Redskins (39th) in this year’s draft.

[Related: Redskins get No.2 pick]

This trade will draw different opinions from around the league. Personally, I think the Rams cashed-in on their chance with this No.2 pick.

Rams

• They’ve already got a future QB in Sam Bradford
• There was no point in selecting RGIII or Andrew Luck
• If you pick one of those two^^ and trade them, you’ll get much less value
• So, they cashed in by getting a 1st Rounder every year for the next 3

Redskins

• Desperately need a QB right now, it’s their main weak spot
• Haven’t had many good QBs recently, maybe with RGIII they have a chance?
• RGIII will bring the fans to the stadium, we all know that
• They can build around RGIII, just like you build around a PG in basketball
• However, they had to give up a lot in order to get this pick; in fact, I think they gave up more than they needed to

So, what’s your take on this deal?

Follow @TheSportzGuru
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Peyton Manning is now a free agent

Yesterday, the Indianapolis Colts announced that they planned to release their QB of 14 years on this day. In his 14 year career with the Colts, he has brought home one Super Bowl trophy and multiple MVP’s. The Colts seem to have the game plan many predicted going into the off season: trade Manning, draft Luck. With this strategy, you save yourself $28 M you were about to use on a player who hasn’t seen the field since 2010. In addition, you gain on of the most anticipated players of this generation in Andrew Luck.

Now, will they end up drafting Luck? Or will they go with Heisman winner Robert Griffin III? He is slated by many to be selected with the 2nd pick, currently held by the St. Louis Rams. However, St. Louis believes they’ve got their QB of the future in Sam Bradford. This clearly raises more questions: will the Rams trade their 1st round pick? If the colts draft RG III, will the 2nd selection be Andrew Luck?

I think the biggest question is this: Is Luck/RGIII ready to 1) take over a legend’s role on the team and 2) bring this team back from a bottom-feeder to a title contender?

Which team will sign Peyton?

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Here is what I think will happen: Luck will get picked by the Colts. The St. Louis Rams will trade their No. 2 pick to another team for an abundance of other picks to build around Bradford. RGIII will be selected with that pick.

Personally, I think Luck will have the better career, and the Rams will trade their pick to the Seahawks.

Question: Who do you guys think will have the better career: RGIII, or Andrew Luck?

Question: Who will the Rams trade their No. 2 pick to?

Also, any other comments would be greatly appreciated

Personally, I think Luck will have the better career, and the Rams will trade their pick to the Seahawks.

Bill O’Brien Headed to Penn State

News broke out today that Patriots Offensive Coordinator Bill O’Brien has signed with Penn State. It seems that news is true. PSU is looking to officially introduce their new head coach at a press conference on Saturday (espn.com). Was this a good decision by PSU to hire O’Brien?? In my opinion, they should’ve looked for a head coach, not an offensive or defensive coordinator. That would’ve helped them out already, and would’ve narrowed the search down a bit more. I don’t know how good of a coordinator O’Brien is, but I do know the Pats have a great offense.

To be honest, not much of a sports day today…maybe tomorrow will be better?

One last question: Was this a good or bad decision by PSU?

#SportsBlogMovement

Related articles

• You: Bill O’Brien Penn State Rumors: Will Bill Belichick Coaching Tree Grow Further? (bleacherreport.com)
• You: Why Bill O’Brien Is Better off Staying in New England Than Heading to Penn State (bleacherreport.com)
• http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/7430206/bill-obrien-agrees-penn-state-nittany-lions-coach-sources-say

Tomlin: Clark won’t play vs. Broncos

Yesterday, it was reported on espn.com that S Ryan Clark will not play next Sunday against the Broncos. Tomlin is sitting Clark because he’s got a disease called sickle-cell trait. This disease causes some blood cells to be abnormally shaped, just like this. Because there are some sickle-shaped cells in the bloodstream, the person is much more likely to develop blood clots, especially in high altitudes. As we all know, Denver is the Mile-High City. Last time he played in Denver (2007), Clark “became violently ill and lost his spleen and gallbladder in addition to losing 30 pounds because of deprivation of oxygen to his major organs” (ESPN.com). While Clark is a big part of their defense and the Steel Curtain surely will miss him, no game is worth risking your life for. If the medical team had not removed Clark’s organs, he most likely would’ve suffered a stroke or a heart attack because his veins would’ve clotted.

In my opinion, it’s the right call to sit him for this one. No game, not even the Super Bowl, is worth risking a life for. I’m sure Clark is devastated he can’t suit up for the game. However, he told ESPN he will travel with the team and cheer on the Pittsburgh Steelers as they take on the Broncos in Denver.

Speaking of the game, why not preview it little?

First off, Tim Tebow has not looked good the past 3 weeks. The difference in his game is he hasn’t pulled off the miracles we’re used to seeing in the 4th Quarter. Their running game is one of the best in the league, but I don’t think it will be enough against the Steel Curtain. Granted, they don’t have Ryan Clark, but they just have too many stars for the Broncos to get anything going on the ground. Plus, I don’t think Big Ben will let the Broncos win the game; I just think he will match their points if need be.

My pick: Pittsburgh Steelers OVER Denver Broncos

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The Eagles announced yesterday that Andy Reid isn’t going anywhere. Here is a quote from Chairman Jeffrey Lurie:

“Andy Reid not only has the love of his players and their respect, but he also has the fire in his belly to be the best,” Lurie said. “You’ve got to have the anger. You’ve got to have the motivation, the dedication, and the focus and the talent. My answer to those questions is yes. That’s why I want to see our team coached by Andy Reid next year, and I can’t wait to see that team play. There’s no doubt in my mind, if our focus is on trying to win a championship next year, the best coach for that is Andy.”

To be honest, I think this was the wrong decision by the Eagles. It could work out for them, but I would’ve let Andy go after 14 seasons as the coach and no rings to show for it. I’m not forgetting the run this team had last year with Mike Vick as their full-time starter, however. Many fantasy football managers remember the amazing season Mike Vick had under center. All NFL fans remember how good the Eagles were last year; you were scared to play them! Now, there are a lot of uncertainties with this team.

Will Andy win a ring with this team? History says no, and so do I.

Can he take them to the playoffs?

Playoffs? What playoffs? 

Related articles

• Ryan Clark won’t play in Denver (fanaticsportsandcards.com)
• Super opportunity for 2005 Broncos wound up being wasted (denverpost.com)
• Steelers Vs. Broncos, NFL Playoffs 2012: RB Rashard Mendenhall Replaced By CB Anthony Madison On Roster (denver.sbnation.com)

NFL Playoffs Set, Off-season Changes Begin

The NFL regular season is over. Teams that made the playoffs are busting their asses in preparation. The rest of the league has started their off-season. In fact, a couple teams have gotten head starts by firing their head coaches. The Buccaneers fired Raheem Morris yesterday, while the Rams fired Steve Spagnuolo. Both coaches were fired because of disappointing seasons: the Bucs finished 4-12, while the Rams finished an awful 2-14. Those W/L records kind of surprise me a bit, because both teams vastly improved last year when Tampa went 10-6 and St. Louis went 7-9. However, I suppose both franchises decided that the Head Coach should take the blame for the teams’ disappointing season.

As previously mentioned, the NFL playoff matchups are set. The Bengals will travel to Houston to take on the Texans, while the Steelers travel to Denver to take on the Broncos. That one confused me, as Denver has a much worse record than Pittsburgh, yet has a home game against them…

Those matchups are both AFC Wild Card games. Now, for the NFC Wild Card games: the Lions travel to New Orleans to face the Saints, while the Falcons travel to New York to take on the Giants.

Honestly, I think the Bengals will win their matchup because their quarterback (Andy Dalton) is better than Jake Delhomme.However, if TJ Yates comes back, we don’t know how he’ll produce because he’s a little inconsistent. Regardless, I feel the Bengals have a better chance of winning because of their rookie quarterback and receiver.

I think the Steelers will win their matchup because their defense is one of the best in the league. They will find a way to stop Tim Tebow. Also, Big Ben will make sure Pittsburgh scores enough to win the game. Will Denver even score at all in this game?

I think the Saints will beat the Lions because their offense is just too good. Led by Drew Brees, they have a passing attack unlike any other in the NFL. However, I do think the Lions will make it interesting and a fun game to watch.

I think the Giants will beat the Falcons because Atlanta has a history of being bad on the road. Plus, the Falcons aren’t used to playing in 30 degree conditions, like the Giants are. I do think this game will be close, but I feel like the Giants will pull out a victory here.

To find the complete playoff picture so far, visit this link.

Week 17 starts with a bang

Normally, Week 17 is the craziest week of NFL football. Why is that? Many teams are fighting for those 2 Wild Card spots. However, sometimes divisions that aren’t clinched can be decided on this very day. Such is the case with the NFC East, where the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys are vying for the division title today. Neither the Giants nor the Cowboys have good enough records to earn a Wild Card spot, so the game at 8:20 tonight is it. Both teams are 2-3 in their last 5 games. What surprises me about the Giants is they started off so well (6-2) but they perennially struggle in the 2nd half of the season.

The Jets needed to beat the Dolphins today in order to have a shot at the playoffs. Unfortunately for the Jets and their fans, they lost to the Dolphins 19-17. Honestly, Rex Ryan and his team did not deserve to make the playoffs this year. They were extremely inconsistent (much like the Giants), allowed hundreds of points off turnovers, and did not execute well on offense. To top it off, Ryan was babbling about how his team is so good and how they’re gonna make the playoffs.

Well Rex, what happened to that?

I’m sorry if I embarrass any Jets fans out there, but: 

In other news, the Indianapolis Colts have clinched the Number 1 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Will they select Andrew Luck? Only time will tell, but for their own sake, I hope they do.

Week 13 Power Rankings

The week 13 NFL Power Rankings are in and  I am pretty excited to have two knowledgeable football analysts with me to help with the rankings. We have taken the average of the threeanalysts votes. Each analyst has ranked the teams as they choose 1-32 and we have added comments for each team. Joining me today is Sam Brief, of Sam’s Sports Brief, a 14 year old who created Sam’s Sports Brief to give you a refreshing new perspective on the wild world of sports. Sam hopes to someday become a sports broadcaster or a sports writer and is following his dreams, providing readers with a wealth of information and keen perspective.

Our second analyst today is JB Knox, of 1313sports. He, too provides in-depth game breakdowns and predictions of every game and has coverage of all of the four major sports on his site!!! I highly recommend checking their sites out and brushing up on your sports knowledge through the eyes of these sports fanatics.

So without further ado, here are the NFL Week 13 Power Rankings. Comments and debates are highly recommended and encouraged on these websites!!! Hope You Enjoy!!!

TEAM	RECORD	COMMENTS
1. Packers	11-0	What can I say? The Packers are 11-0, and may be the most well-rounded team we’ve seen in a while. They lead the league in 6 different offensive categories (Have I mentioned that they average 35 points per game?). Of course, they are led by Aaron Rodgers, who leads the league in almost every stat category, and is on pace to have the best season a quarterback has ever had. If Calvin Johnson is Megatron, Rodgers is Optimus Prime. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
2. Saints	8-3	It’s all about the weapons. Jimmy Graham (6-6, 260) leads the team with 67 receptions and 957 yds, Darren Sproles continues to be a spark-plug and a so-called one-dimensional offense is out-rushing their opponents this year. The Saints are hitting their stride just in time for the stretch run. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
3.Patriots	8-3	The Pats are coming off a win @ KC last week. They looked dominant on both sides of the ball and were able to beat this sinking Chiefs team. With Jamaal Charles, Matt Cassel, and Eric Berry all out, I’m not surprised the Pats beat ‘em like this. Still, the Pats are a dominant team and can beat anyone provided they’re on top of their game. Next week, the Pats take on the the Colts at home.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
4. 49ers	9-2	The 49ers showed their true colors (red and gold, right?) during a 16-6 loss at the hands of the Ravens. Their usually magnificent offensive line sputtered, and Alex Smith was sacked an uncharacteristic 9 times. Could the 49ers finally be falling off the mountain? When they play the Steelers in 3 weeks, we will know if they are the real deal or no deal. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
5. Steelers	8-3	The Steelers are in the top 6 in every major defensive category in the NFL. Big Ben has found an emerging start in Antonio Brown and they are nearly doubling their opponents 41-24 in passing plays of 20 yards or more. Can you say Speedy wide-receivers? @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
6.Ravens	8-3	The Ravens won the Harbaugh Bowl last week 16-6. Although the 49ers are still ranked ahead of them, they’re a force to be reckoned with in the AFC. The defense, old as it is, can stop any offense in the league. Baltimore has an easy game against the Browns next week. http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
7. Texans	8-3	Houston we have a problem: Our starting quarterback (Matt Schaub) is out for the season, and now so is our backup (Matt Leinart). Now our starter is 5th-round draft pick T.J. Yates. Although this is true, a Texans’ team that leads the NFL in total defense and is 3rd in rushing offense should be just fine. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
8.Falcons	7-4	Winners of 5 of their last 6 games, a favorable schedule down the stretch and injuries/suspensions to their two major obstacles for the NFC Wild Card has the Falcons looking good for a late run. They take their 2nd ranked rushing defense against A. Foster and the QB-less Texans this week for a smash-mouth battle. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
9. Bengals	7-4	The Bengals pulled out a close win last week over Cleveland. The Dalton to Green connection is getting stronger every week. This team really turned it around this season with a rookie QB at the helm. Next week’s matchup is against the Steelers in Pittsburgh.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
10.Cowboys	7-4	The ‘Boys barely escaped the upstart Dolphins on Turkey Day, winning 20-19 on a last-second field goal. They are now on a surprising 4-gae winning streak, and lead the NFC East. If the Cowboys can keep this up, then maybe they can escape the label as the Kim Kardashian’s of the NFL. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
11.Bears	7-4	Yes, I know Cutler may be done for the year, butthey have 4 very winnable games left on the schedule vs KC, Denver, Seattle & Minnesota. They still have the special teams of Hester and the Urlacher-led defense holding them strong. Don’t count them out just yet. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
12.Lions	7-4	The Lions got their asses handed to them v. the Packers last week. Plus, Suh got suspended 2 games for his malicious hit on a Green Bay player. They are still in the Wild Card race, but they’ll have to keep it going in order to secure that spot. Next week, they face the Saints in NO.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
13. Giants	6-5	The Giants are doing what they do. They trick us with a stellar start (6-2), and then they stop winning and end up on losing streaks and get cut out of the playoff picture. Eli Manning is doing his job, but his supporting cast and defense may need some clues on how to step up their game. Here’s a start: Giving up 49 points against the Saints on Monday Night Football is unacceptable. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
14.Raiders	7-4	Palmer has won 3 straight games and the defense is in the top 5 in sacks with 32. The trio of Wimbley, Seymour and Kelly has seemingly flown under the radar this year. Janikowski gives them the ability to score once they reach the 35 and if they could only cut down on their league leading 109 offensive penalties, they’d be a worrisome bunch come playoff time, assuming they can hold off Tebow. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
15.Jets	6-5	The Jets got lucky last week. Bills kicker Ryan Lindell muffed a kick which gave them great field position at midfield. Plus, Stevie Johnson wasn’t able to haul in the game-winner TWICE last week. Although, the second one was behind him. Regardless, this is an up-and-down team that needs to become consistent in order to secure a playoff spot. Next week they face the ‘Skins in Washington.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
16.Broncos	6-5	It’s official: Tebowmania has begun. Tim Tebow is now 5-1 as a starter, and now has the Broncos at 6-5 and just 1 game back of the Raiders for the division lead. There is no doubt that Timmy Tebow has given a breath of new life to the entire Broncos’ Organization, but has also revolutionized the way we look at the quarterback. Keep Tebowing, keep Tebowing. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
17. Titans	6-5	So, Chris Johnson has 2 100 yard rushing games in his last three and they face a weak Bills run defense this week on the road. They are within striking defense of division leading Houston and their depleted QB core. This week is a must win game for them to keep pace. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
18. Bills	5-6	The Bills didn’t play their best last Sunday. They aren’t looking sharp at all right now. Hopefully, they can turn things around and beat out the Jets for the Wild Card spot. Next week, the face the Titans at home.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
19.Buccaneers	4-7	The Bucs are now in the runt of the NFC. They are currently on a 5-game slide, and while their schedule was tough (Bears, Saints, Texans, Packers, Titans), there are no excuses for a 5-game losing streak. Just stop losing it reeks! http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
20.Chiefs	4-7	Easily the streakiest team in the NFL gets to start Kyle Orton vs his old team in Chicago this week. Can Orton get the Chiefs to score more than 10 points? Their is a FG-kicker in Oakland nearly averaging the same number of points as your whole team!!! The stout defense of the Bears should have a field day.@theknoxscore 1313 Sports
21.Cardinals	4-7	Last week, the Cards edged out a win against the Rams. Patrick Peterson returned another punt for a TD, his 4th of the year. Beanie Wells had 228 yards rushing. They won’t make the playoffs this year, but I see them upsetting some teams and causing a stir in the NFC. http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
22. Eagles	4-7	The Eagles got crushed by Patriots at home this week. Michael Vick was out again with a rib injury, but shouldn’t the ‘Dream Team’ be able to pull out a win against the NFL’s best? The Eagles are also a horrific 1-5 at home, which is the 2nd worst in the league only to the winless Colts. At 4-7, there are truly no playoff chances for the ‘Dream Team’, so don’t be surprised to see Andy Reid lose his job at the end of the season. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
23. Browns	4-7	Their next two games are vs the Ravens and the Steelers. Get the ice baths ready boys. This very vanilla offense has Peyton Hillis back, but has he really shown any ability to play like a man this season? No, and if you’re targeting Benjamin Watson more than Cribbs, you may as well cal Tom Watson now and get ready for some early golf lessons. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
24.Chargers	4-7	The Chargers are playing awful right now. Rivers is turning the ball over, nothing is getting done on the ground, and the defense is stinking up the place! Maybe next year, Norv. http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
25. Redskins	4-7	The almighty Rex Grossman went into Seattle, and won! He got a win! It looks like the ‘Shanahanagins’ are going to stick with Rex for the rest of the season unless Bad Rex shows up, at which point another switch to John Beck would seem likely. Here’s the Redskins quarterback equation for those who are confused: Good Rex= Win, Bad Rex= Lose, John Beck= Self-Destruction, Rex Grossman/John Beck 2-headed monster= Just. Plain. Bad. http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
26.Panthers	3-8	Can the Panthers climb out of the NFC South cellar this week? Their 28th ranked run defense isn’t a good matchup vs LaGarrette Blount and his thigh striding ways. Let’s hope the front-office has some defensive lineman in mind for next season.@theknoxscore 1313 Sports
27.Seahawks	4-7	The ‘Hawks were edged out by the ‘Skins last week. This snapped the Redskins’ 5 game losing streak. I don’t see the Seahawks doing anything this year. Next week, they take on the Eagles at home.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
28.Dolphins	3-8	The surging Dolphins nearly knocked off the Cowboys on Turkey Day. This loss marked the end of a 3-game winning streak that actually made Dolphins’ fans excited (first ever last-place team to make the playoffs, anybody?) Now the streak is over, so…the Dolphins…eh… http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
29. Jaguars	3-8	Blaine Gabbert gets benched, Del Rio gets fired and MJD keeps running!!! The 3 most exciting things I’ve said aloud about the Jags all season. @theknoxscore 1313 Sports
30.Rams	2-9	The Rams were good last year…but that was last year. Next week, they face the 49ers on the road.http://stevessportscorner.wordpress.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/TheSportzGuru
31.Vikings	2-9	The 2-9 Vikes lost for the 3rd time in a row on Sunday, this time to the Falcons. This was a game in which the Vikings actually showed some life towards the end of the game, but, better luck next year, I hope they’re not this putrid in Los Angeles… http://sambrief.com https://twitter.com/#!/SamsSportsBrief
32.Colts	0-11	21 point underdogs this week at New England!!! Really the only question in this game is this. Will Tom Brady and the Pats break the Saints mark of 65 points vs the Colts from earlier this season? @theknoxscore 1313 Sports

So it’s stretch run time in the NFL and the games are getting magnified on a week-to-week basis. The teams are fighting for coveted home-field advantages and playoff byes, while the lower tiered teams are already trying to figure out who has what it takes to stay on the roster for years to come. The Packers had a unanimous #1 ranking and I’m not sure even a single loss will hurt them in that spot. The Saints and Pats are putting up points at an alarming rate and what is going on in Denver. I, for one, would like to hear Von Miller’s named mentioned as often as I hear Tebow’s.

The Coach’s hot seats are starting to boil over as well. Del Rio is gone in Jacksonville, Andy Reid and Norv Turner are both hearing the chants scream loud from their home crowds and more rookies (aka Patrick Peterson) are starting to make a name for themselves. Lucky number 13 is in the books. Let’s see how the playoff picture unfolds this coming Sunday!!!

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MNF Pick: Giants @ Saints

Our Monday Night game of Week 12 features the 6-4 Giants going to NO to face the 7-3 Saints. This should be a great game to watch, no doubt. New Orleans will look to keep the top spot in the NFC South, while the Giants are looking to tie the Cowboys @ 7-4 for 1st place in the NFC East. A loss for either of these teams will hurt them bad, more so the Giants than Saints. The Giants have a lot of injuries which definitely will not help them against this Saints offense. Speaking of the Saints, their offense is a high-flying acrobatic showcase ready to explode at any moment. Drew Brees will most likely connect on some deep throws in this game; his offensive line will give him ample time to make those throws.

On the other side, we got Eli Manning, Brandon Jacobs and Hakeem Nicks on the Giants offense. Their offensive line is getting old and might falter against the Saints pass rush. Also, the Saints will probably force Manning to air it out by bringing extra men in the box.

Bottom line, New Orleans wins in a close one. The deficit will be within a TD.

SNF Pick: Steelers @ Chiefs

This week’s Sunday Night Football matchup is Pittsburgh Steelers @ Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs will have to rely on Tyler Palko to guide them to the playoffs, as it looks like Matt Cassel is done for the year. Arrowhead Stadium is one of the loudest stadiums in the league, so it’ll be difficult for Pittsburgh to call plays and such. The Steelers look like a lock for the playoffs, barring any epic collapses late in the season.

On the other hand, the Chiefs need to win to keep playoff hopes alive.

Overall, I just think Big Ben’s too good to be contained,and with Tyler Palko leading KC’s offense, it looks like a lock for the Steelers.

Steelers OVER Chiefs this week.

Tomorrow, MNF Pick.

 

 

Monday Night Football Pick: KC @ NE

Our matchup for MNF this week is Kansas City @ New England. After losing Matt Cassel AND Jaamal Charles for the season, it doesn’t look good for the Chiefs. I mean, they might be able to get Cassel in the last 2 games, but if they lose any before then, it won’t matter. Anyway, the Chiefs will look to run the ball and pass occasionally, as this is Tyler Palko’s first start @ QB.

Honestly, I’m concerned this game will be boring and not worth watching at all.

On the other side, we’ve got Tom Terrific leading the Patriots against a decent defense. Luckily for them, this game’s in Foxboro. If it were in KC, they would have a hard time communicating with each other on the O-Line.

Not much to talk about, so I’m just gonna say Patriots OVER Chiefs at home.

Sincerely,

@TheSportzGuru

#SportsBlogMovement

Sunday Night Football Pick: PHI @ NYG

So far, today’s games have been fun to watch. In fact, some have even gone to the last-minute or OT. This week’s SNF matchup pits the Giants at home against the Philly Eagles. The Eagles are 3-6 and are the opposite of the “Dream Team” moniker bestowed by Vince Young before this season. Speaking of Vince Young, he’ll have to QB this game for the Eagles because Vick is out with 2 cracked ribs. Also, the Eagles will not have Jeremy Maclin in this game, as he’s injured as well. On the plus side, LeSean McCoy has looked like an All-Pro this season, racking up 906 yards, a 5.5 avg, and 10 TD.

On the other side, we’ve got Eli Manning and the Giants coming off that loss to the 49ers. Although the 49ers won fair and square, I think the Giants played a good game and stayed competitive. I think that because the 49ers are a 9-1 team, so staying within a TD of that aint too bad. Although Bradshaw won’t be back, we do get Hakeem Nicks back from injury. Eli has been playing great football and has come up in the clutch when it’s needed the most.

Bottom line, the Giants will need to win this game in order to stay atop the NFC East. I think they’ll do just that: Giants OVER Eagles.

Sincerely,

@TheSportzGuru

#SportsBlogMovement

Week 11 Picks

To be honest, I have the exact same picks as my friend jstar1973 (that’s his Twitter handle). So, I’d like to put that link up in this post for you guys to read. The post is short and sweet, so you definitely won’t be bored with 500-word paragraphs:

http://jsportsblogger.wordpress.com/2011/11/19/nfl-week-11-picks/

TNF Pick: Jets @ Broncos

This week’s Thursday Night matchup pits the Denver Broncos at home against the Jets. In my previous post about Tim Tebow, I noted that he’s 3-1 as the Broncos’ starter. Denver is still in the AFC West race.  Their running game has averaged 150+ rushing yards in their last 4 games. Tim Tebow is a very unorthodox QB, which will make it hard for the Jets to defend him.

On the other side, the Jets lost to the Pats last week. They look very un-organized and can’t get it going on either side of the ball, mostly defense.

My mind is not in it right now, so I apologize for the unrelated sentences.

Anyway, my pick is Broncos OVER Jets. I picked ’em because I think Tebow will lead the Broncos to an upset. Also, I bet $1 on them with a friend of mine. Finally, the Jets have only 3 days rest between Sunday’s game and now.

Sincerely,

@TheSportzGuru

#SportsBlogMovement

All he needed was God and 2 completions

Throught 10 weeks of the NFL season, the Broncos have looked decent at best. The one bright spot for them? The man drafted outta Flo-rida in 2010: Tim Tebow! He got his 3rd win of the season last Sunday when the Broncos defeated the Chiefs 17-10. Just a couple of weeks ago, people were writing off Tebow after the loss to Detroit. I wasn’t really too much either way on the issue (when it comes to believer/ hater). I will say now that I AM a believer in this guy. He beat the Broncos on two completions. Let me repeat: he beat the Broncos with two completions! One of them was a 50-yard pitch-and-catch to Decker for a TD. On the day, he was 2/8, but still got a QB rating of 102.6! How did he do that? Well, I think it’s because he had that 1 TD and threw no picks. If I had to guess, that would be my first choice. Everybody knows about Tebow praying to God before every game. Unfortunately, some have even started to mock him for it. The act was dubbed “Tebowing”. I don’t think it’s right to make fun of Tebow because he expresses his faith, especially after you just sacked him. The majority of people saw it as funny, but I guess I’m one of the few that saw it as what it really is: disrespectful. Hell, I’m surprised Tulloch didn’t get fined for that act! I thought the rule was that you can’t get down on one knee to celebrate? In addition to Tebow’s amazing stats, he had 43 rushing yards on 9 carries (sbnation.com).

This post was requested by a classmate of mine.

Till next time (Rankings!),

@TheSportzGuru

#SportsBlogMovement