Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Week 13 NFL Predictions

Green Bay at Dallas
Line: Cowboys by 7
There were two games of real significance thus far, and they were Cowboys-Patriots and Colts-Patriots. This matchup, however, could be the decisive factor in who gets home field advantage in the NFC. In a dream matchup of QB's between Brett Favre and Tony Romo, Green Bay actually seems to match up pretty favorably with Dallas, as they'll be able to spread the field out and attack the secondary provided they can contain the 'Boys defensive front. While Romo and Dallas will be game, you can never bet against a legend like Favre, his 0-8 record in Texas Stadium nonwithstanding. Packers 28, Cowboys 24

San Francisco at Carolina
Line: Panthers by 3
Now back to the games that matter much less. It was good to see the Niners finally show some signs of life on offense against the Cardinals. But a repeat effort? I've been down on Carolina all year, but until I see the Niners string together two consistent offensive performances, I'll go with, yes, even the Panthers. Panthers 17, 49ers 13

Jacksonville at Indianapolis
Line: Colts by 7
Another game of significant importance in the AFC South, the toughest division in football hands down. The Jags have been playing at a high level the past three weeks and are more than capable of turning this game into a slugfest. Indy is slowly healing, but unless their entire offensive line is intact, they'll have problems moving the ball against Jacksonville. Colts 17, Jaguars 14

Detroit at Minnesota
Line: Vikings by 3.5
Three straight losses have brought the Lions back to earth after a 6-2 start. Meanwhile, the Vikings have somehow stumbled back in the NFC Playoff race after a 41-17 shellacking of the Giants. Now, they've got their rookie sensation possibly coming back, and that could be enough to spark them to a victory and back to .500 in the suddenly-crowded NFC North. Vikings 24, Lions 17

San Diego at Kansas City
Line: Chargers by 5

As badly as the Chiefs have played the last few weeks, and they've been pretty horrid, I can't trust a streaky San Diego offense in potentially horrible weather. Norv's offense can't move when the sun is shining anyways. Chargers 19, Chiefs 17

New York Jets at Miami
Line: Dolphins by 1.5
Last week, it took the worst weather imaginable and an unplayable field to get a 3-0 game. This week, these two anemic offenses may accomplish that on their own without bad weather. Dolphins 3, Jets 0

Buffalo at Washington
Line: Redskins by 6
R.I.P. Sean Taylor. It's tragic to see such an amazingly talented player get taken out in the prime of his life. I'll always remember the colossal hits and the reckless effort and intensity he brought every Sunday. Now those traits are only memories after his life was taken from him by a gunshot on that fateful evening of November 25, 2007. For such a catastrophic event to take place now almost seems to trivialize the 3-game losing streak the Redskins have been on. They may win on Sunday, but ultimately, the team still must work together to overcome the huge void he leaves behind. Redskins 24, Bills 14

Houston at Tennessee
Line: Titans by 3.5
Think Vince is tired of taking the blame for his team's struggles? Now he has a chance to take out his frustaurations on the team that never should have passed him up. *tsk* *tsk* *tsk* how you disappoint me Texans! I thought you were a sleeper this year! Titans 17, Texans 10

Atlanta at St. Louis
Line: Rams by 4.5
Remember when this game was entertaining, back when Michael Vick and Marshall Faulk were playing? Is there even a reason to watch this now? Rams 13, Falcons 10

Seattle at Philadelphia
Line: Eagles by 3

The Eagles' close loss to the Patriots was no fluke, as they've shown a marked improvement in the last three weeks with Brian Westbrook transforming into SuperBack and carrying the team on his shoulders. Seattle is a hit-or-miss team that seems to fold in the face of prosperity, so I'll go with an Eagles team that seems to be coming together at the right time. Eagles 20, Seahawks 14

Cleveland at Arizona
Line: Cardinals by 1

Cleveland is emerging as the true surprise team in the NFL and their amazing trio of JLew, Winslow and Edwards continue to leave their mark on opposing defenses. This seems like a trap game, but not if the Browns continue to run the football, as they did last week against the Texans. Browns 31, Cardinals 21

Denver at Oakland
Line: Broncos by 3.5

Denver has to be asking itself how they let the Chicago game get away, but they should clean up against the annual divisional anchor, the Oakland Raiders. I said anchor becuase I get tired of writers referring to the last place team as a "doormat." Anchor just sounds better to me. Broncos 27, Raiders 20

Tampa Bay at New Orleans
Line: Saints by 3

Tampa's D has been rock solid all year and the Saints have been up-and-down. Meanwhile, the Saints will once again get worked over on the ground, thanks in large part to one of my key contributors, Earnest Graham. Buccaneers 21, Saints 13


New York Giants at Chicago
Line: Giants by 2
The Giants' disturbing loss to the Vikings could have a lingering effect, as they may head into a late-season swoon again if Eli underperforms down the stretch. They're going to have enough trouble beating a desperate Bears team in horrible weather. Bears 16, Giants 13

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh
Line: Steelers by 7

One thing is evident from watching the last two Steeler games: they are having problems on the offensive line. They're not running the ball the way we're used to and are relying entirely too much on Roethlisberger. Cincinnati's defense has also shown signs of life recently and their offense is finally coming together, so Pittsburgh could be in for a dogfight. Steelers 27, Bengals 24

New England at Baltimore
Line: Patriots by 20.5
Did the Eagles finally get the blueprint for beating the Patriots or did New England just play their worst game of the season? I'll give New England the benefit of the doubt, after all, hearing all this negativity from the media should be enough to motivate them back to their A-game against the Ravens. Patriots 38, Ravens 10

Week 12 vs Spread 10-6
Week 12 Straight up 11-5
Season vs Spread 85-86-9
Season Straight up 113-63

Week 4 NBA Rankings

1. San Antonio Spurs (12-3) (1) After lighting up the Spurs, Beno Udrih was heard to quote "Jacque Vaughn?? Are you serious??"
2. Orlando Magic (13-3) (5) How long does Turkoglu keep up this hot streak of his?
3. Boston Celtics (11-2) (2) After beating the Bobcats at the buzzer on a miracle 3, Allen has a very unclutch moment, missing two FT's against the Cavs.
4. Phoenix Suns (11-3) (3)
Suns get outgunned by the Warriors, snapping an 8-game winning streak.
5. Utah Jazz (10-5) (6) In a 3-game stretch against Paul, Billups and Marbury, Williams averages 19.6 ppg and 9.6 apg
6. Dallas Mavericks (9-5) (4) Dallas's defense breaks down in a three-game swoon capped off by an embarrassing home loss against the Arenas-less Wizards
7. Cleveland Cavaliers (9-6) (16)
LeBron is taking charge again with a triple-double on Sunday and a 38-point effort against the C's.
8. Detroit Pistons (8-5) (9)
When do Johnson and Stuckey start getting a chance? Seems like the Pistons always stash a few talents like this at the end of the bench.
9. New Orleans Hornets (10-6) (8) When the Hornets plummet back to .500, they'll be looking back and wondering how they let Minnesota beat them on their home floor.
10. Houston Rockets (8-7) (11) They're fine as long as TMac is healthy, but did they really upgrade the roster if they still can't win with him hurt?
11. Denver Nuggets (9-6) (7) Bad starts have been the biggest factor behind the Nugs' latest 2-game skid.
12. Milwaukee Bucks (7-5) (12)
Bucks get caught napping against the Sixers after a pair of impressive wins against Dallas and Cleveland.
13. Los Angeles Lakers (8-6) (10) No more negative Youtube comments from Kobe about Andrew "bleeping" Bynum, who's averaging a double-double a month into the season.
14. Toronto Raptors (7-7) (15)
Where did Jamario Moon come from?
15. Washington Wizards (7-7) (14) By now, you would think they're used to playing without Arenas.
16. Golden State Warriors (6-7) (22) In winning six of seven since their 0-6 start, the Warriors are once again a team to fear because of all the offensive weapons they can throw at you.
17. New Jersey Nets (7-8) (18) Three straight wins to finish out their Western swing, then the Nets lay an egg at home against the Grizzlies.
18. Los Angeles Clippers (6-7) (13) The injuries are starting to finally catch up with them.
19. Indiana Pacers (7-8) (19) Tinsley hasn't looked this good since his rookie year.
20. Charlotte B0bcats (6-8) (17)
To lose the way they did against Boston has to be a flattening feeling for the young Bobcats.
21. Atlanta Hawks (5-8) (20) Win in Minnesota and Miami, but couldn't complete a sweep of the NBA dregs by beating Chicago.
22. Miami Heat (4-10) (25)
Stan Van Gundy gets a good measure of revenge when his Magic team mopped the floor with Riley's Heat.
23. Portland Trail Blazers (21) Jack has found his offense since being moved to the bench in favor of Steve Blake.
24. Sacramento Kings (5-9) (23) The combination of Garcia, Udrih and Salmons has eased the loss of Bibby.
25. Memphis Grizzlies (5-9) (24) Pau needs to step it up, Mike Miller is averaging more boards a game than he is.
26. New York Knicks (4-9) (28) See what happens when you motivate Marbury? Now he just needs to keep this up to get the Knicks back to respectability.
27. Philadelphia 76ers (4-9) (27)
Watching Dalmebert and Evans play is literally like watching paint dry.
28. Chicago Bulls (3-10) (26) What has happened to Kirk Hinrich? Granted he was a little overrated to begin with, but he's never played this badly.
29. Minnesota Timberwolves (2-10) (30) When do Brewer and Green start getting real minutes?
30. Seattle Supersonics (2-13) (29) Why doesn't this team just start Delonte West at SG and move Durant to his natural position of SF?

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Week 12 NFL Predictions

Thanksgiving day record vs spread 2-1
Thanksgiving day record straight up 3-0

New Orleans at Carolina
Line: Saints by 2.5

It's a tribute to Steve Smith's maturity that he hasn't come into the locker room with a machine gun and shot up the place. His talent is being wasted on this miserable, QB-less team. Saints 23, Panthers 17

Tennessee at Cincinnati
Line: Titans by 1.5

The ultimate get-well game for a struggling Titans' offense. They should be able to establish a flagging running game against the horrid defense of the Bengals. One would only hope, anyways. Titans 21, Bengals 17

Houston at Cleveland
Line: Browns by 3.5
The Texans have a date with destiny, but as much as I've backed them all year, I'm seeing the Browns as the team doing all the things the Texans were supposed to be doing this year. Prove me wrong, Texans, and I will jock you hardcore down the stretch. Browns 24, Texans 20

Buffalo at Jacksonville
Line: Jaguars by 8

The public is going with Jacksonville, but need I remind you how unpredictable this team has been in the past? They seem to be at their worst when faced with prosperity and this is a desperate Bills team trying anything to climb back into the playoff hunt. Jaguars 20, Bills 17

Oakland at Kansas City
Line: Chiefs by 5

I can't even trust this Chiefs team against the woeful Raiders. Their offense is that pitiful. Plus, this is an AFC West matchup, where you pretty much throw all the records out the window. So...when do the Raiders tank and start playing JaMarcus Russell? Chiefs 13, Raiders 10

Minnesota at New York Giants
Line: Giants by 7

Just a hunch. Plus, there are way too many outright favorites. You know at least one of them has to slip up. Plus, the Vikings match up very well with the Giants because they can take away the run. Giants 17, Vikings 14

Seattle at St. Louis
Line: Seahawks by 3

While Seattle has been maddeningly inconsistent all year, their defense is starting to step it up and the running game is slowly coming together. I'm not calling them contenders yet, but they should make quick work of their weak divisional foes. Seahawks 24, Rams 17

Washington at Tampa Bay
Line: Buccaneers by 3

Joe Gibbs should plan on going back to NASCAR next year, as he simply isn't getting the job done with this team. Meanwhile, the Bucs extend the theory that finishing last in the South is the quickest way to winning that division. Does this mean I pick the Falcons next year? Buccaneers 16, Redskins 10

San Francisco at Arizona
Line: Cardinals by 10.5

Could the Cardinals actually be making a push towards the divisional crown and a rare playoff appearance? They're still the Cardinals, I won't take a double-digit spread because it's still the Cardinals. Cardinals 14, 49ers 7

Denver at Chicago
Line: Bears by 2

The Broncs get another favorable QB matchup their secondary can exploit. Plus with San Diego pissing away every chance to put the division out of reach, they're right back in the race and they'll continue sinking the Bears' ship. Broncos 20, Bears 13

Baltimore at San Diego
Line: Chargers by 8.5

This Chargers' team has been unpredictable this year, but the Ravens are sinking and sinking fast. Their defense is aging and their offense is just plain miserable. While lightning doesn't always strike, the Chargers play with a lot more emotion at home and generally take care of business. Chargers 31, Ravens 17

Philadelphia at New England
Line: Patriots by 25

This Patriots team, honestly, has me changing all the rules. A 25 point spread seems impossible to cover, but this is a team that just keeps pushing the bar higher and higher and amazingly exceeding it on a consistent basis. What's scary is those early-season blowouts don't even compare to what they're doing now. And AJ Feeley's starting. Cartman didn't even want his football card. Patriots 66, Eagles 10

Miami at Pittsburgh
Line: Steelers by 16

On the other side of the token, I doubt Pittsburgh has another sloppy meltdown like they did against the Jets. I hope Joey Porter's happy in Miami being a few million dollars richer. My only question is how much money is he stealing from that organization? Steelers 38, Dolphins 17

Week 11 vs Spread 8-7-1
Season vs Spread 75-80-9
Week 11 Straight up 12-4
Season Straight up 102-58

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Week 3 NBA Rankings

1. San Antonio Spurs (10-2) (2) Orlando gave them a scare for one half, but the Spurs remain triumphant.
2. Boston Celtics (9-1) (1) One day after a thrilling loss to the Magic, the C's throttle the Warriors to get back on track.
3. Phoenix Suns (10-2) (3) 47 points in a quarter and 80 in a half??? There's the old Phoenix team we knew and loved!
4. Dallas Mavericks (9-2) (5) They've answered major challenges with wins over the Spurs and Rockets in the past week.
5. Orlando Magic (10-3) (9)
Even in a loss, Howard shines against Duncan with a 34-point, 16-rebound performance.
6. Utah Jazz (8-4) (6) Williams scorches Kidd to halt a two-game losing streak.
7. Denver Nuggets (8-4) (10)
Cleaning up against NBA pasties before bowing to the Clippers.
8. New Orleans Hornets (9-4) (8) Hornets-Jazz is that ironic twist game. The one that leaves you asking why these teams can't swap nicknames.
9. Detroit Pistons (7-4) (4) The western swing is over and despite a 2-3 record, the Pistons stay atop the Central.
10. Los Angeles Lakers (7-4) (15) Kobe's not scoring as much, and it's giving Odom more of an opportunity to flash his true talent.
11. Houston Rockets (6-6) (7) So much for all the offseason buzz, this team still doesn't have a reliable clutch scorer.
12. Milwaukee Bucks (6-4) (19)
When this team's shooting the ball well, they're tough to beat.
13. Los Angeles Clippers (6-4) (11) Kaman is averaging 18 and 14 and truly blossoming as a player.
14. Washington Wizards (6-5) (27) A week against bottom feeders has helped the Wizards resurrect their season.
15. Toronto Raptors (6-6) (12) Just think how much better they'll be when Bosh finally starts playing at the level he's capable of.
16. Cleveland Cavaliers (6-6) (13) Hughes has spent almost as much time injured as he has playing since joining the Cavs.
17. Charlotte Bobcats (6-5) (17) G-Force has finally blossomed into a full-blown 20-point scorer.
18. New Jersey Nets (5-7) (14) Need an explanation for losing? Why is the Nets' PG averaging more blocks per game than Nenad Kristic?
19. Indiana Pacers (5-7) (18) O'Neal is losing a step, which has to be alarming to the Pacers.
20. Atlanta Hawks (4-7) (21)
Big Al Horford is a beast on the boards and gradually getting better on the offensive end.
21. Portland Trail Blazers (4-8) (16) Still haven't figured out how to win on the road yet, but playing surprisingly well for a young team.
22. Golden State Warriors (3-7) (28) Jackson couldn't have picked a better time to come back and spark this flagging team.
23. Sacramento Kings (4-8) (26) Kevin Martin is the one 25+ ppg scorer that makes you scratch your head and ask "How does he score that much?"
24. Memphis Grizzlies (3-8) (23) With Lowry and Conley starting to flourish, it may not be long before Stoudamire has to find a new job.
25. Miami Heat (2-9) (25) You have to give Wade credit for handling Shaq's occasional lethargy a lot better than Kobe did.
26. Chicago Bulls (2-8) (22) The Knicks gave the Bulls two freebies and they blew them on Thomas and Noah? Where did they think they were getting their frontcourt scoring from, Ben Wallace?
27. Philadelphia 76ers (3-7) (24) Louis Williams should be getting the starting job since Green can't hit the broad side of a barn.
28. New York Knicks (2-9) (20) At what point does Dolan just cut his losses and sell this multi-million dollar disaster?
29. Seattle Supersonics (2-10) (30) Durant's got the total package, he just needs to shoot it better and it's hello superstardom.
30. Minnesota Timberwolves (1-8) (29) How anyone can forgive McHale for essentially giving away KG for next-to-nothing is beyond me.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Week 11 NFL Predictions

Tampa Bay at Atlanta
Line: Buccaneers by 3

Byron Leftwich starting...seems ok, except he hasn't gotten regular snaps in over a year and he's counting on finding his rhythm against one of the toughest defenses in the league. In other words, not bloodly likely. Buccaneers 17, Falcons 10

Arizona at Cincinnati
Line: Bengals by 3

I don't care what anybody says, going from futile to mediocre is progress, so these teams have a lot to be proud of. Oh and despite their bad record, not a single Bengal has committed a felony this year, that's a good thing right? Bengals 24, Cardinals 13

Kansas City at Indianapolis
Line: Colts by 14.5

My mama done told me don't never pick against Peyton Manning after he threw six interceptions the week before. Besides, with LJ, the Chiefs offense is mediocre. Without him, it's just plain miserable. Brodie will be on his back more than Jenna Jameson. Colts 34, Chiefs 10

San Diego at Jacksonville
Line: Jaguars by 3

I just wanted to point out how hilarious Norv looked witnessing his team's near-meltdown against the Colts. He just looked like he wanted to jump into an abyss. That's probably how Charger fans will feel after he mismanages another game this week. Jaguars 21, Chargers 17

Oakland at Minnesota
Line: Vikings by 4.5

No AD would spell doom for most teams, but when your backup's Chester Taylor and the team you're playing made Ron Dayne look like a Pro Bowler, suddenly things start to look optimistic for you. Vikings 20, Raiders 10

Cleveland at Baltimore
Line: Browns by 3

Brian Billick still hasn't found a QB in ten years. Anyone know how he still has a job and how much he's paying Cunningham under the table for making him look good in Minnesota? Browns 24, Ravens 16

Carolina at Green Bay
Line: Packers by 9.5

Vinny was a seasoned veteran by the time Favre was a rookie and Favre was considered aging and "past his prime" coming into the season. So what does that make Vinny? Packers 31, Panthers 10

New Orleans at Houston
Line: Texans by 1.5

Houston, don't fail me this week. I'm still holding out that faint hope that you'll somehow find a way to make the playoffs. Meanwhile, New Orleans, I got nothing to say, the last five weeks you've made me look bad, first, by me doubting you and then by letting me down when I finally believed in you. You're blacklisted for the season for that! Texans 21, Saints 19

Miami at Philadelphia
Line: Eagles by 9.5

Miami has the Dolphins, they have to get one win, 'cause if they don't they'll go down as the NFL's worst football team. They can't throw through the air or run on the ground they're never in control, and when you hear people laughing it's 'cause some idiot blurted out "Dolphins' Super Bowl." 'Cause we're the Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins in last place. We're the Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins in last place. Eagles 16, Dolphins 13

New York Giants at Detroit
Line: Giants by 2.5

Feel the growl! It's those Lions on the prowl. They may have been running backwards against Arizona, but they'll figure out how to get it back in first against the Giants. If they just run a little, it'll open up Kitna to gun down his full arsenal against a suspect Giants' secondary. Lions 27, Giants 24

Pittsburgh at New York Jets
Line: Steelers by 9.5

Nothing except motorcycles can stop Big Ben right now. OK, there's my lame motorcycle joke for the year. Kellen Winslow Jr, you're next! Steelers 31, Jets 17

Washington at Dallas
Line: Cowboys by 11

Grandpa Gibbs oughta take a cue out of Parcells' book and walk out with his dignity before he coaches this team any further into the ground. Dallas is clicking on all cylinders and not even a silly little rivalry can stand in their way. Cowboys 31, Redskins 21

St. Louis at San Francisco
Line: Rams by 3

In most circumstances, I'd have a real problem with picking a one-win team on the road, but that's exactly how bad the Niners looked on Monday Night. In all honesty, last year's Raiders looked better at times on offense last year. Wow, if only we could match those two teams up. Has any NFL game ever ended in a 0-0 tie with OT, b/c that one may have that kind of futile offense-potential. Rams 21, 49ers 7

Chicago at Seattle
Line: Seahawks by 4.5

Rex Grossman alert! Rex Grossman alert! Warning, interceptions may be more frequent than they appear! Warning, fumbled snaps may be more common than they appear! Seahawks 17, Bears 7

Buffalo at New England
Line: Patriots by 16

Buffalo will be playing with a lot of emotion at home, but will it be enough to stop the imminent undefeated season the Pats are headed for? Not without Marshawn Lynch. Patriots 31, Bills 17

Tennessee at Denver
Line: Broncos by 2

No matter how bad the media dogs him out, Vince is a prime time player and has been since college, so of course he's saving his best stuff for Monday Night football. Denver's defense finally showed up last week, but it was against a struggling offense that was missing it's only real source of production. Titans 21, Broncos 14

Week 10 vs Spread 7-7
Week 10 Straight up 6-8
Season vs Spread 65-73-8
Season Straight up 90-54


Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Week 2 NBA Rankings

1. Boston Celtics (6-0) (2) They've dominated in five of their six victories with KG leading the team in four different categories
2. San Antonio Spurs (7-1) (3) Parker got a 3-point shot now! It's like every year, he just adds something new.
3. Phoenix Suns (6-2) (5)
Hopefully Amare's knee doesn't become too much of an issue.
4. Detroit Pistons (5-2) (1) See how much better they are when Sheed's performing and not screaming at refs?
5. Dallas Mavericks (5-2) (4)
Winning in Golden St. may help fight some of those playoff demons.
6. Utah Jazz (6-2) (8) Lets face it, Williams-Boozer is the new Stockton-Malone tandem, and in some ways better.
7. Houston Rockets (6-2) (5) Someone besides McGrady and Yao has to pick up the scoring.
8. New Orleans Hornets (6-2) (7) Now that he's fully healthy, Paul is taking his game to an even higher level.
9. Orlando Magic (6-2) (12) Boston, Phoenix and San Antonio better move over, Orlando's got a killer trio too!
10. Denver Nuggets (5-3) (17) Imagine how much better they'd be if they didn't have some $25 million tied into Nene and Kenyon's medical bills.
11. Los Angeles Clippers (4-2) (9) Maggette and Kaman have stepped up huge with Brand still rehabbing.
12. Toronto Raptors (4-3) (14) Delfino's just another example of a youngster that never got a chance in Detroit.
13. Cleveland Cavaliers (4-4) (11) LeBron's trying, but how much longer can he carry this weak supporting cast.
14. New Jersey Nets (4-3) (15) There goes Carter again with his injury crap.
15. Los Angeles Lakers (3-3) (10) They need Odom, he's the key to Kobe staying happy and not burning down Staples' Center to get traded.
16. Portland Trail Blazers (4-3) (29) They're young, but their confidence is growing with each win against a contender in this homestand.
17. Charlotte Bobcats (4-3) (20) Good thing they play defense, because this team's backcourt misses more than a James Bond sniper.
18. Indiana Pacers (3-4) (13) Blowing a 25-point lead against Denver=bad news. That's the kind of loss that could haunt this team.
19. Milwaukee Bucks (2-4) (18) Yi's actually turning out to be pretty good. He appears to the only Bucks' big man with a pulse.
20. New York Knicks (2-4) (16) Marbury's gone AWOL again. Oh well, so much for the Knicks being a playoff team.
21. Atlanta Hawks (2-4) (19) It goes without saying, this is a scary team had they not screwed up and taken Marvin Williams over Chris Paul.
22. Chicago Bulls (1-5) (23) This team couldn't score in an empty gym.
23. Memphis Grizzlies (2-4) (27)
The young nucleus is in place, now it just comes down to winning consistently.
24. Philadelphia 76ers (2-5) (21)
Now if they could just find someone who can compliment Igoudala, then they'd start to get somewhere.
25. Miami Heat (1-6) (22) Lets be honest, Riley would probably be the 6th man on this roster.
26. Sacramento Kings (2-5) (26) Hide your children, Artest's coming back!
27. Washington Wizards (1-5) (25) A defesnively challenged ballclub with a ball-hogging PG. Sounds like a recipe for disaster.
28. Golden State Warriors (0-5) (24) They go up a few spots the minute they pop their 2007-08 cherry.
29. Minnesota Timberwolves (0-5) (29) Good to see Telfair at least playing with some confidence.
30. Seattle Supersonics (0-8) (30) Maybe next year, Seattle can draft a center with a pulse to free up Durant.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Week 10 NFL Predictions

Jacksonville at Tennessee

Line: Titans by 5

This Titans team is for real. The Jags may have the great defense on paper, but the Titans’ D is outperforming them and are far more scary. With Jacksonville being a fairly one-dimensional team, guess which dimension the Titans are taking away? That’s right, the running game! Titans 13, Jaguars 10

Denver at Kansas City

Line: Chiefs by 3

The Chiefs could start Mike Garrett or Marcus Allen in the backfield and the Broncos still wouldn’t find a way to stop either. As far as offensively, Denver doesn’t stand a chance without Walker. Chiefs 20, Broncos 10

Buffalo at Miami

Line: Bills by 2.5

I GOT LEE EVANS! I GOT LEE EVANS! Perfect timing too, he gets to go against the Dolphins' secondary. Bills 28, Dolphins 17

Cleveland at Pittsburgh

Line: Steelers by 10

This is a different Browns team from Week 1. They no longer have Charlie Frye and instead have a red-hot Derek Anderson, who could keep the Steelers sweating this one out in Pittsburgh. Steelers 34, Browns 28

St. Louis at New Orleans

Line: Saints by 10.5

The rally from 0-4 is complete and I was a non-believer the whole way. Never more! The Saints are dominators of mediocre competition! Saints 34, Rams 10

Atlanta at Carolina

Line: Panthers by 3.5

Remember how Mike Vick used to kill the Panthers before he picked up a second hobby killing canines? OK, I’ll stop, really, it’s getting old. Panthers 24, Falcons 14

Philadelphia at Washington

Line: Redskins by 3

The Redskins get the most disappointing team in their division, the woeful Philadelphia Eagles, who are well on their way to an 0-6 record in the brutal NFC East. Redskins 19, Eagles 14

Minnesota at Green Bay

Line: Packers by 5.5

Can you believe this? My opponent had Adrian Peterson last week, which of course, was his NFL-record-breaking week, and I still won the matchup? Find out later how I pulled that off. Packers 24, Vikings 17

Cincinnati at Baltimore

Line: Ravens by 3

It was painful watching McNair against the Steelers. Just painful! The man’s got nothing left in the tank. Then again, the Bengals’ D might have trouble stopping a dead man. Ravens 27, Bengals 20

Chicago at Oakland

Line: Bears by 3.5

So, when are the Raiders going to start Russell? I mean, their season’s practically over, might as well, right? Bears 21, Raiders 13

Detroit at Arizona

Line: Lions by 1.5

The Lions could compete for the NFC North crown if their D keeps playing at a high level. Arizona’s probably a year away from surprising people if they can ever get the QB situation straightened out. Lions 20, Cardinals 17

Dallas at New York Giants

Line: Cowboys by 1.5

ROMO TO OWENS BABY! ROMO TO OWENS! The hottest hookup since Columbians giving coke to rich white people in the mid-80’s! Yup! That’s why I’m hot! Oh, and as for the Giants, they’re playing well enough to get over against some scrubby teams, but they have no idea what this Cowboys’ team’s got in store! HOW BOUT THEM COWBOYS! Cowboys 31, Giants 20

Indianapolis at San Diego

Line: Chargers by 3.5

What Indy showed in the New England game, in spite of the loss, is that they have a very physical defense. San Diego has not always played physical this year and if Indy’s D can establish tempo early, Peyton and Addai can do their thing on the other end. Colts 34, Chargers 24

San Francisco at Seattle

Line: Seahawks by 9.5

Seattle’s just good enough to get over on their sorry division, and that’s about it. Remember when this Niners’ team was 2-0 and everyone was penciling them in as their playoff darkhorse? Seems like ages ago. Seahawks 17, 49ers 10

Week 9 vs Spread 6-8

Week 9 Straight up 11-3

Season vs Spread 57-65-8

Season Straight up 84-46

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Week 1 NBA Rankings

  1. Detroit Pistons (3-0) Getting lit up by LeBron in the playoffs was the best thing to happen to the Pistons. Look at how much better their D has gotten.
  2. Boston Celtics (2-0) Already showing signs of dominance and it’s just been two games.
  3. San Antonio Spurs (3-1) Ginobili and Parker are already in midseason form while Duncan’s still rounding into preseason form.
  4. Dallas Mavericks (3-1) Moving Jet to the bench looks like a brilliant move so far.
  5. Phoenix Suns (3-1) Came out surprisingly flat against the Lakers.
  6. Houston Rockets (4-1) Win over Spurs a real early season statement for a team that’s trying to establish itself among the elite.
  7. New Orleans Hornets (4-0) Not only is Paul healthy, but Peja’s poppin’ the threes again.
  8. Utah Jazz (2-2) Brewer is already making Jazz fans forget about Derek Fisher.
  9. Los Angeles Clippers (3-0) T-squared’s getting his money’s worth right now, but how long can they hold up without Elton?
  10. Los Angeles Lakers (2-2) Challenged Houston, beat Phoenix and Utah, and Odom’s still on the shelf.
  11. Cleveland Cavaliers (2-2) At least they have Pavlovic back, but without Sideshow Bob, they don’t have the same kind of energy.
  12. Orlando Magic (3-1) Turkoglu’s playing out of his mind and Howard is starting to move into the elite category of PF’s
  13. Indiana Pacers (3-0) There’s no way they can keep this up, there’s just no way. I feel good about drafting Granger though.
  14. Toronto Raptors (2-2) Got an early-season statement win in New Jersey, but have since fallen back to earth.
  15. New Jersey Nets (3-1) While the rest of the trio struggles, Jefferson is playing out of his mind.
  16. New York Knicks (2-1) If they can establish the inside game with Curry and Randolph, they’ll be leaps and bounds better than last year.
  17. Denver Nuggets (2-2) For a team with such size up front, you would think the Nuggets could play better defense than they’re playing.
  18. Milwaukee Bucks (2-2) Redd alert! Redd alert! He’s back in full force and the Bucks look improved.
  19. Atlanta Hawks (1-2) Speaking of improved, this is a possible playoff sleeper right here.
  20. Charlotte Bobcats (2-1) Already missing Morrison, now they may be without Felton for a while.
  21. Philadelphia 76ers (1-2) With Reggie Evans coming over from Denver, they look good defensively.
  22. Miami Heat (0-3) They look helpless offensively without Wade.
  23. Chicago Bulls (0-4) It’ll take more than a Kobe trade to save this team, but then again, they got off to a bad start last year too.
  24. Golden State Warriors (0-4) This team’s hurting without Jackson. They need him back ASAP!
  25. Washington Wizards (0-3) Agent 0 is not liking the fact that the zero is in the left-handed column.
  26. Sacramento Kings (1-3) They might as well tank the season with no Bibby for months.
  27. Memphis Grizzlies (0-2) They at least look more competitive than they did last year.
  28. Portland Trail Blazers (0-3) Aldrige is one of the few bright spots in what looks like a dismal season.
  29. Minnesota Timberwolves (0-3) Talent-challenged, but still competing very hard despite this.
  30. Seattle Supersonics (0-4) The fans in Seattle may only get to enjoy Durant for one or two more seasons unless the taxpayers help fund a new arena.

Sunday, November 4, 2007

Week 9 NFL Predictions

Washington at New York Jets

Line: Redskins by 3.5

Might as well throw up a white flag, Jets, your season’s finished. And to think, all they needed to do was start Kellen Clemens about eight weeks earlier and they might have a fighting chance. Redskins 24, Jets 14

Green Bay at Kansas City

Line: Chiefs by 2.5

Herman Edwards is circling the wagons yet again, taking a team with no QB’s, no WR’s, an aging TE and an overworked RB to a 4-3 record and a tie for the division lead as they near the midway point. A little ball-control and some tough D and they should knock off the Pack to maintain their momentum. Chiefs 21, Packers 13

Arizona at Tampa Bay

Line: Buccaneers by 3.5

Does Jon Gruden have that same scowl on his face when he’s getting the mail or walking the dog? ESPN should do a reality show to find out. They should do another reality show on retired coaches and figure out of Dennis Green’s gained about 20 more pounds in an effort to keep up with Mark Mangino. Buccaneers 20, Cardinals 19

Carolina at Tennessee

Line: Titans by 4

No truth to the rumor that Steve Buerlein has been contacted for a QB job. Maybe the Panthers should go after Steve DeBerg next. Just think how dangerously close we were to watching Vinny Testaverde vs Kerry Collins and breathe a huge sigh of relief. Titans 13, Panthers 10

San Francisco at Atlanta

Line: Falcons by 3

A few weeks ago, a Falcons fan was popping off on a Niners’ message board about Alex Smith being a bust. This leads me to wonder what’s worse, drafting a QB who never lives up to his promise because of the team around him, or drafting a QB who takes a bad team to the playoffs a few times but enjoys making hot dogs in the offseason and ultimately screws the team (and himself) over? Falcons 23, 49ers 17

Jacksonville at New Orleans

Line: Saints by 3.5

Not drinkin’ the Saints’ Kool-Aid. Their three game winning streak has come against three teams that are not playing good football. All Jacksonville has to do is run the ball the way they did last week and the Saints’ D is at their mercy. Jaguars 24, Saints 17

San Diego at Minnesota

Line: Chargers by 7

It appears the Chargers have rallied around their embattled coach and are playing with the same explosion that won them 14 games last year. After the Minnesota game, however, the schedule gets difficult starting with a showdown against the Colts. Chargers 38, Vikings 17

Denver at Detroit

Line: Lions by 3

Feel the wrath of the Lion growl . Detroit is on the prowl and they’re about to double their win total by the halfway mark of the season. As woeful as Denver’s run D has been, expect Kevin Jones to have one of those 150+ yards/3 TD games against them. Lions 31, Broncos 21

Cincinnati at Buffalo

Line: Bengals by 1

JP Losman is starting! Any rumors of a Buffalo win have since been quickly put to rest. Bill Simmons maybe getting screwed in his column for picking Buffalo, but being that I can wait till Sunday to make my picks, I have the freedom to adjust! Bengals 17, Bills 13

Seattle at Cleveland

Line: Browns by 1

How on earth does Mike Holmgren keep his job? Are they so delusionally overjoyed by the ‘Hawks Super Bowl appearance that they can’t see this guy is wasting the prime of several talented players’ careers? Anyways, if there were a NOW segment for this column, the rapidly-improving Browns would be the NOW team of the present. Browns 23, Seahawks 20

Houston at Oakland

Line: Raiders by 3.5

Andre’s back! It’s gotta work now Texans! Show them you’re more than just a last place team. At least you can beat the Raiders, right? Texans 21, Raiders 20

Indianapolis at New England

Line: Patriots by 5.5

This is it! The game of the year! All the hype, all the questions all the Super Bowl 41 and a half talk, and now the two best teams in the National Football League take the field. Who has the edge this time? Indianapolis has done nothing to disappoint as their defense has overcome injuries to post an impressive 7-0 record, but since the Pats added Moss, Welker and Stallworth, they’ve taken their biggest weakness and made it their biggest strength. So far, they’ve dominated every team they’ve played hands down, as not one game has been closer than 21 points. Do the Colts have what it takes to make this a ballgame? Sure they do, as I don’t think the Pats’ defense will have much success stopping them. But can the Colts stop the Patriots’ offense? It just may be too tall a task. Patriots 38, Colts 35

Dallas at Philadelphia

Line: Cowboys by 3.5

The Eagles are 0-2 in the division and didn’t look particularly competitive against either the Redskins or Giants. That’s too bad because the Cowboys are easily the toughest divisional opponent. Unless Philly figures out a way to score overnight, it’s going to be a long night. Cowboys 23, Eagles 10

Baltimore at Pittsburgh

Line: Steelers by 9.5

This is a divisional rivalry often determined by which offense looks worse since the defenses always bring their A-games. This year, it looks like Baltimore’s on the short end of the stick, as Roethlisberger’s motorcycle wounds have healed. Still, it’s a divisional rivalry and you never know if the Ravens suddenly show up to play after looking so inconsistent in their first seven games. Steelers 20, Ravens 14

Week 8 vs Spread 4-9

Season vs Spread 51-57-8

Week 8 Straight up 6-7

Season Straight up 73-43