By Dan Shouse
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
As the Patriots enjoy a week off, the biggest story of week 8 will be Brett Favre's return to Green Bay as a member of the Vikings.
Packers 28 Vikings 24
Favre won round 1 against his former team, but it will be the Pack that wins round 2, as Favre makes his long awaited return to Lambeau Field. It will be strange to hear Favre get booed at his old stomping grounds, but at the end of the day the Packer faithful will have plenty to cheer about. The Pack will hand the Vikings a second straight loss and move into a first place tie with the Vikings atop the NFC North.
Eagles 27 Giants 23
After looking like one of the top teams in the NFL, the Giants are suddenly struggling, and things will not get any better this Sunday as the Eagles will hand the Giants a thrid consecutive loss. The Eagles will grab a share of first place in the NFC East with a win. Usually with first place on the line, this would be the biggest game of the day in both Philly and New York, but with the World Series going on, this game takes a back seat.
Texans 35 Bills 7
Even with Andre Johnson banged up, the Texans will roll. Don't look now, but Matt Schaub has established himself as one of top quarterbacks in the league, having thrown for over 2000 yards and 16TDs already this season.
Bears 21 Browns 3
After an embarrassing performance last week against the Bengals, the Bears' defense will dominate the Browns - just like everyone else does. Derek Anderson has a QB rating of 30.9 the last three weeks. This will be an easy week for the Bears defense.
Jets 31 Dolphins 20
Revenge will be on Rex Ryan's mind this week. After losing to the Dolphins earlier this season in Miami, expect the Jets to come out of the gate quickly and return the favor to the Dolphins in the Meadowlands. Maybe Mark Sanchez could enjoy a hot dog at the game.
Colts 42 49ers 20
The Colts will continue to show that they are the best team in the NFL, as Peyton Manning will start a new steak of 300 yard passing games against the 49ers. Alex Smith will have another chance as 49ers QB, as he will look to build off of last weeks' impressive showing against the Texans.
Cowboys 34 Seahawks 14
Tony Romo looks like he has finally found a replacement for TO in Miles Austin. Austin has been huge the last two games, and figures to be the main target again when the Cowboys face the Seahawks. After stepping up and beating the Falcons last week, Romo will once again be solid against the Seahawks.
Lions 17 Rams 3
It is ironic that these two teams face off, because the Rams look like they could join the Lions as the only other team to go 0-16. Matthew Stafford returns at QB for the Lions.
Ravens 24 Broncos 21
Coming off a bye, the Broncos will be flat. It is time for Josh McDaniels to taste defeat for the first time. It is also time for the Ravens defense to step up.
Jaguars 23 Titans 13
Is Jeff Fisher's job in jeopardy in Tennessee? It looks that way as the owner has ordered the coach to start Vince Young over Kerry Collins. Young will not be the answer either, as the Titans will remain without a win.
Chargers 40 Raiders 10
After looking okay against the Eagles a few games back, the Raiders returned to form, getting blow away by the Jets last time out. Meanwhile the Chargers played their best game of the year last week against the Chiefs. Look for the current trends to continue with these teams, as the Chargers will hand the Raiders another blowout loss.
Cardinals 38 Panthers 13
The Cardinals will build off a huge win against the Giants with an even more impressive win against the Panthers. Do you think the Panthers regret giving Jake Delhomme that huge contract extension?
Saints 38 Falcons 24
After a sloppy first half performance against the Dolphins, the Saints will be much more focused against the Falcons. The Falcons are good, but not good enough to stop the Saints.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Red's Rants: More defense, less pretense
By Brendan Hall
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
OK, so this was originally supposed to be a column about why Alabama's Terrence Cody should be in Heisman contention, but my good friend Dan Wetzel beat me to the punch. C'mon Dan, you did this two years ago with Jake Long, can't I get a bone?
In a year where the supposed Heisman "locks" have done nothing but suck, it's been defensive guys that have been ruling the college football universe. Nebraska's Ndamakong Suh can control the line of scrimmage -- and sometimes, games -- practically by himself. South Florida's George Selvie and TCU's Jerry Hughes have pulverized quarterback after quarterback. USC's Taylor Mays is the baddest man in the secondary -- and the subject to Congressional scrutiny.
Cody, as any 3-4 guru will tell you, leads one of the nation's most suffocating defenses. Bill Belichick is never one to show his hand with draft wish lists, but you know he's drooling for Cody. Just look at how nose tackles like Ted Washington, Keith Traylor and Vince Wilfork transformed the Patriots.
Instead, we are subjected to THIS list of candidates.
Are we really supposed to believe that of the top 12 players in the country, only ONE is a defensive player?
If you have to think about that one, maybe you too are a tool.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
OK, so this was originally supposed to be a column about why Alabama's Terrence Cody should be in Heisman contention, but my good friend Dan Wetzel beat me to the punch. C'mon Dan, you did this two years ago with Jake Long, can't I get a bone?
In a year where the supposed Heisman "locks" have done nothing but suck, it's been defensive guys that have been ruling the college football universe. Nebraska's Ndamakong Suh can control the line of scrimmage -- and sometimes, games -- practically by himself. South Florida's George Selvie and TCU's Jerry Hughes have pulverized quarterback after quarterback. USC's Taylor Mays is the baddest man in the secondary -- and the subject to Congressional scrutiny.
Cody, as any 3-4 guru will tell you, leads one of the nation's most suffocating defenses. Bill Belichick is never one to show his hand with draft wish lists, but you know he's drooling for Cody. Just look at how nose tackles like Ted Washington, Keith Traylor and Vince Wilfork transformed the Patriots.
Instead, we are subjected to THIS list of candidates.
Are we really supposed to believe that of the top 12 players in the country, only ONE is a defensive player?
If you have to think about that one, maybe you too are a tool.
Fantasy Football Friday: Week 8
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
We now enter the home stretch for fantasy football. How is your team faring? Is it time to make a move to shake up your team, or are you just looking to trade depth at one position to shore up another? Either way, you're either happy or frustrated with your fantasy football season. This can be a tough week for many a fantasy owner. There are a whopping 6 teams on the bye this week. The teams on a bye are the Bengals, Buccaneers, Chiefs, Patriots, Redskins and Steelers. That can mean some serious shuffling for the waiver wire if you're not smart. I'm fine this week, but it's next week that kills me on the bye, but we'll get to that next week. Now for the good stuff
Best Match ups of the week:
1. Browns @ Bears - In case you didn't notice, I'll tell you to play anyone going up against the lowly Browns. The Browns have the worst defense in the NFL and allow 419 yards per game. What does this mean? This will finally be a good week for Matt Forte. The Brown allow 170 yards per game on the ground so this is a fantastic match up for Forte. Let's not forget about a few other I like Jay Cutler, but think the Bears will be up big early so don't count too much on him. I do like Johnny Knox though. Look for him to get a score this week. On the other side of the ball, it's a good time to insert the Bears defense/special teams.
2. Rams @ Lions - This is going to be a good time to start some players from each team. For the Rams, I like Mark Bulger this week, and love Steven Jackson to finally score his first TD of the season. I also like Danny Amendola this week if you're in a deep league. On the flip side, I see a big week for Kevin Smith. It never seems like he puts up a ton of yards, but he should easily score. Calvin Johnson may play or not. We don't really know right now. It looks like he'll be a game time decision so keep an eye on the situation.
3. Raiders @ Chargers - These two teams met the first week of the season seeing the Chargers slip by with a 24-20 win. I do not see this as a close game at all. The Raiders offense is so bad, so make sure you play the Chargers defense. The obvious plays for the Chargers are Philip Rivers, Antonio Gates and Vincent Jackson. The not so obvious play, but one I love this week, is LaDanian Tomlinson. He's killed the Raiders in his career, and I expect 2 scores from him.
Put em' in the Lineup:
QB - Kyle Orton, Tony Romo, David Garrard
The Ravens defense, especially against the pass, is not what you think it is. They allow 241.5 yards a game, and are ranked 23rd overall. Romo is pretty much in the same situation taking on the Seahawks. They've struggled of late on defense, and Romo is just getting going. Garrard and the Jaguars take on the worst pass defense in the league in the Titans.
RB - LeSean McCoy, Kevin Smith, Matt Forte
I don't see Brian Westbrook playing on Sunday. That means McCoy will get the carries, and is already good catching the ball out of the backfield. See above for my reasons to starts Smith & Forte
WR - Torry Holt, Eddie Royal, Jericho Cotchery
Torry Holt has been average 8 targets a week even with Mike Sims-Walker on the other side. The Jags take on the Titans, and look for both receivers to have a good game. The Ravens will double team Brandon Marshall, so watch out for Royal in single coverage. Cotchery is back and should be healthy.
TE - Donald Lee, Tony Scheffler
It looks like Finely will not play against the Vikings, so Lee will be the biggest benefactor. I see him getting at least 5 catches and 60 yards on Sunday. Kyle Orton has been targeting Scheffler more as the season goes on. I look for more of the same against the Ravens.
DEF - Cardinals, Chargers
I love the Cardinals this weekend against the Panthers. Delhomme is an interception machine, and the Cardinals defense looks more like they did in the playoffs last year. The Chargers are playing the Raiders. Simple as that.
Make em' ride the Bench:
QB - Jake Delhomme, Vince Young, Brett Favre
Jake the snake is good for a couple of interceptions. You couldn't pay me to play Vince Young, and he is going to be awful. I don't care what Favre did a few weeks ago in Minnesota. I just think he's a bit to keyed up for this game in Green Bay.
RB - Brian Westbrook, Donald Brown
I am of the opinion that Westbrook doesn't play, and neither will Donald Brown. This is going to be a good week for Joseph Addai.
WR - Kevin Walter, Steve Smith (CAR)
Kevin Walter has had 4 terrible weeks in a row. I would actually suggest dropping him if you have him. Despite the fact the Arizona Cardinals are generally not good against the pass, I don't like Steve Smith this week. That is how bad Delhomme is. Ouch.
TE - Vernon Davis, Zach Miller
There is now way Davis follows up with another good game this week. The Colts defense is better than you think, so I don't see him being a focus on offense. Zach Miller has been way to inconsistent for me this year. With a diverse group of playable tight ends, he get the bench this week against the Chargers.
DEF - Jets, Falcons
The Jets will struggle against the Wildcat this weekend. The Dolphins keep rolling out new uses for the quirky offense. It doesn't help that Ricky Williams look about as fast as he ever has. Don't start a defense that takes on the Saints.
Well, here you go. Good luck this week
Thursday, October 29, 2009
BCS championship hopes on the line this week.
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
This is the weekend that will make or break some teams. While every team that has a shot at the BCS national championship needs to win in order to stay in it, but Texas and USC both face huge hurdles this week.
Texas has perhaps the toughest draw on the schedule this week in college football.
Here's the scenario: The Longhorns are ranked third in the BCS rankings with a 7-0 record. They take on Oklahoma State on the road at Pickens Stadium, where the fans provide one of the best home-field advantages in the nation. The Cowboys rank 14th in the BCS, which has them teetering on the edge of at-large eligibility. They need this game if they want to have a legitimate shot at the Big XII title game.
What happens if Texas wins: If the Cowboys lose, Texas is the only undefeated team in the conference with beatable Kansas, Baylor and Texas A&M remaining on their Big XII slate, making them the clear favorites to win, regardless of who comes out of the North. With a Big XII championship, the Longhorns has to have a ticket waiting for them.
What happens if Oklahoma State wins: If the Cowboys win, they hold the tiebreaker over Texas and an easy slate until the final game against Oklahoma, who also has one loss. They need to win both to have a real shot at a BCS game. Even if they beat Texas and move up in the BCS rankings, a loss to the Sooners would surely knock them out of the race for the Big XII title and could knock them far enough down to prevent any shot as an at-large team.
The matchup: This game pits two of the top offensive teams in the country. Texas is the top scoring team in college football with 41.9 points per game and Oklahoma State sits at sixth with 37 points per game. OSU has been without top receiver Dez Bryant and will be without him for the remainder of the season, but they have kept putting up points and kept winning. The question is which team's defense will make more mistakes. Texas is allowing less than two touchdowns per game on defense and Oklahoma State is also a top-40 defense in terms of scoring, allowing just 20 points per game. The difference, besides a touchdown, is that Oklahoma State's defense gives up a ton more yards and is more susceptible to the big play.
Prediction: Texas 35, Oklahoma State 24
Also facing a tough task is USC.
The scenario: USC ranks fourth in the BCS and the only thing that kept them from being undefeated at this point was a loss to Washington in which the Trojans were without their starting quarterback and top defender. That loss, however, has left the door open for Oregon, who hosts the Trojans this weekend. Oregon, ranked 10th in the BCS, is the only undefeated team in the league and in fact has not lost since the opening day game against Boise State.
What happens if USC wins: USC will hold a tiebreaker over Oregon, but still has hurdles, though none as hot as the Ducks are coming into this matchup. Arizona the final week is a final test, but if Oregon can knock them off, the Trojans will win the Pac 10 and are assured a spot in the BCS somewhere.
What happens if Oregon wins: If the Ducks win, they will be in the driver's seat in the Pac-10. With two losses, USC can kiss a shot at the BCS championship goodbye. Even if they finish 11-1, the Ducks probably don't have enough clout to make it to the national championship game, but a spot somewhere in the BCS is assured. Stanford and Arizona are tough road games, so it's hardly a lock, but Oregon will be in control of its own fate.
The Matchup: USC had boasted one of the most daunting defenses in the nation, but that was before giving up a combined 63 points on 849 total yards against Notre Dame and Oregon State. That said, the team is still ranked 15th in scorng defense. This weekend they face another top offense as Oregon ranks 16th in scoring offense. LaMichael James has done a great job in his freshman season filling in for LaGarrett Blount in a run-heavy offense, averaging almost seven yards per carry. But stopping the run is something the Trojans make their living on with an extremely talented and athletic front seven. Oregon is also stingy on defense, allowing less than 300 yards and 17 points per game. Oregon also has a distinct home field advantage and the Trojans have not won there since 2005.
Prediction: USC 20, Oregon 12
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
This is the weekend that will make or break some teams. While every team that has a shot at the BCS national championship needs to win in order to stay in it, but Texas and USC both face huge hurdles this week.
Texas has perhaps the toughest draw on the schedule this week in college football.
Here's the scenario: The Longhorns are ranked third in the BCS rankings with a 7-0 record. They take on Oklahoma State on the road at Pickens Stadium, where the fans provide one of the best home-field advantages in the nation. The Cowboys rank 14th in the BCS, which has them teetering on the edge of at-large eligibility. They need this game if they want to have a legitimate shot at the Big XII title game.
What happens if Texas wins: If the Cowboys lose, Texas is the only undefeated team in the conference with beatable Kansas, Baylor and Texas A&M remaining on their Big XII slate, making them the clear favorites to win, regardless of who comes out of the North. With a Big XII championship, the Longhorns has to have a ticket waiting for them.
What happens if Oklahoma State wins: If the Cowboys win, they hold the tiebreaker over Texas and an easy slate until the final game against Oklahoma, who also has one loss. They need to win both to have a real shot at a BCS game. Even if they beat Texas and move up in the BCS rankings, a loss to the Sooners would surely knock them out of the race for the Big XII title and could knock them far enough down to prevent any shot as an at-large team.
The matchup: This game pits two of the top offensive teams in the country. Texas is the top scoring team in college football with 41.9 points per game and Oklahoma State sits at sixth with 37 points per game. OSU has been without top receiver Dez Bryant and will be without him for the remainder of the season, but they have kept putting up points and kept winning. The question is which team's defense will make more mistakes. Texas is allowing less than two touchdowns per game on defense and Oklahoma State is also a top-40 defense in terms of scoring, allowing just 20 points per game. The difference, besides a touchdown, is that Oklahoma State's defense gives up a ton more yards and is more susceptible to the big play.
Prediction: Texas 35, Oklahoma State 24
Also facing a tough task is USC.
The scenario: USC ranks fourth in the BCS and the only thing that kept them from being undefeated at this point was a loss to Washington in which the Trojans were without their starting quarterback and top defender. That loss, however, has left the door open for Oregon, who hosts the Trojans this weekend. Oregon, ranked 10th in the BCS, is the only undefeated team in the league and in fact has not lost since the opening day game against Boise State.
What happens if USC wins: USC will hold a tiebreaker over Oregon, but still has hurdles, though none as hot as the Ducks are coming into this matchup. Arizona the final week is a final test, but if Oregon can knock them off, the Trojans will win the Pac 10 and are assured a spot in the BCS somewhere.
What happens if Oregon wins: If the Ducks win, they will be in the driver's seat in the Pac-10. With two losses, USC can kiss a shot at the BCS championship goodbye. Even if they finish 11-1, the Ducks probably don't have enough clout to make it to the national championship game, but a spot somewhere in the BCS is assured. Stanford and Arizona are tough road games, so it's hardly a lock, but Oregon will be in control of its own fate.
The Matchup: USC had boasted one of the most daunting defenses in the nation, but that was before giving up a combined 63 points on 849 total yards against Notre Dame and Oregon State. That said, the team is still ranked 15th in scorng defense. This weekend they face another top offense as Oregon ranks 16th in scoring offense. LaMichael James has done a great job in his freshman season filling in for LaGarrett Blount in a run-heavy offense, averaging almost seven yards per carry. But stopping the run is something the Trojans make their living on with an extremely talented and athletic front seven. Oregon is also stingy on defense, allowing less than 300 yards and 17 points per game. Oregon also has a distinct home field advantage and the Trojans have not won there since 2005.
Prediction: USC 20, Oregon 12
With backs against the wall, Yankees desperate for a spark
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Cliff Lee was just outstanding last night, so tip your cap and move on.
The Yankees better turn the page real quick or this World Series will be over in a blink of an eye.
Yes, Game 2 tonight against the defending champion Phillies is a must-win game for New York.
While Lee scattered six hits in a complete-game performance with 10 strikeouts, it's hard to imagine that Pedro Martinez can do the same tonight.
It's been well documented that Pedro knows the Yankees, but remember the Yankees know him, too. And this isn't vintage Pedro of old, this is a guy nearing the end of his career that happened to pitch well against the Dodgers in the NLCS so everyone from Red Sox Nation to Philly thinks he's a staff ace again.
But I'm not buying how Pedro will dominate the Yanks tonight.
But I'm also not banking on New York starter A.J. Burnett dominating, either. Burnett is so hit or miss. He's got great stuff, but lack of control always hurts this guy. He walks too many and then gives up a hit that drives in runs. Burnett needs to stay in the zone, use his fastball inside and outside and get that breaking ball over on a consistent basis.
I think the offenses deliver tonight and then it's up to the bullpens to do the job.
The Yankees stunk with their bullpen in Game 1, but someone needs to step up to bridge the gap to future Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera. Watch, manager Joe Girardi will try to use Mo for three innings (joking)!
We all know it's must-win time for the Yankees. If they lose tonight, there's not way -- yes, I said no way -- that they can win this series.
But they've also got to swing the bats. Mark Teixeira where are you? Time to hit in the clutch and drive in some runs, no more excuses. Is he the new postseason A-Rod dud?
Everyone that takes a bat to the plate is being called out.
The Yankees have a lot of heart and pride. They won't go down quietly, they just need a spark from someone.
Who will it be?
In a perfect world (only Yankee fans allowed), Burnett provides that lift and the offense rallies around the right-hander.
Or will Pedro steal the spotlight?
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Bruins turning it around
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
A slow start and early season injuries could have buried this team, but they are finding a way to stay afloat and are showing signs of improvement.
Since starting the season at 3-4, the Bruins have gone 2-0-1, scoring three goals or more in each game. Sure, the two wins came against some pretty terrible teams in Nashville and Ottawa. But the Nashville game convinced fans, and perhaps the Bruins themselves they could win without some of their top talent.
Philadelphia dealt the B's a shootout loss proved that the team can still hang with a team some considered a favorite to win the Eastern Conference.
But the he Ottawa game was one that could be a defining moment for the team. The Senators are not a powerhouse by any means (don't let the fast start fool you), but overcoming a 3-1 deficit with 1:28 remaining against any team, then beat them in a shootout is something that can give a team a huge lift.
Over this stretch, the Bruins have done an outstanding job of distributing the wealth in terms of goal scoring in the absence of two of last year's top-5 goal scorers (Chuck Kobasew, who was traded and Marc Savard, who broke his left foot.) Really, they're doing it without three of their top goal scorers from last season if you include No. 1 Phil Kessel, but even if he was still with the team he wouldn't be available until November. Blake Wheeler, Mark Recchi, David Krejci, Derek Morris, Matt Hunwick, Steve Begin, Michael Ryder and Patrice Bergeron all have scored over the last three games.
Now the B's have to do something they haven't done yet this year - win back-to-back games.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
A slow start and early season injuries could have buried this team, but they are finding a way to stay afloat and are showing signs of improvement.
Since starting the season at 3-4, the Bruins have gone 2-0-1, scoring three goals or more in each game. Sure, the two wins came against some pretty terrible teams in Nashville and Ottawa. But the Nashville game convinced fans, and perhaps the Bruins themselves they could win without some of their top talent.
Philadelphia dealt the B's a shootout loss proved that the team can still hang with a team some considered a favorite to win the Eastern Conference.
But the he Ottawa game was one that could be a defining moment for the team. The Senators are not a powerhouse by any means (don't let the fast start fool you), but overcoming a 3-1 deficit with 1:28 remaining against any team, then beat them in a shootout is something that can give a team a huge lift.
Over this stretch, the Bruins have done an outstanding job of distributing the wealth in terms of goal scoring in the absence of two of last year's top-5 goal scorers (Chuck Kobasew, who was traded and Marc Savard, who broke his left foot.) Really, they're doing it without three of their top goal scorers from last season if you include No. 1 Phil Kessel, but even if he was still with the team he wouldn't be available until November. Blake Wheeler, Mark Recchi, David Krejci, Derek Morris, Matt Hunwick, Steve Begin, Michael Ryder and Patrice Bergeron all have scored over the last three games.
Now the B's have to do something they haven't done yet this year - win back-to-back games.
Why the Phillies will Win
By Rick Eggleston
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The curtain goes up on the 105th Fall Classic tonight that to the surprise of few, finds the Yankees as the American League representative. Of course, $202 million can buy you a lot of things. So, will it be enough for the Yanks to hoist the World Series trophy over their heads for the 27th time in their storied history? I say no, and here are five reasons why the Phillies and their $113 million payroll will beat the Yankees.
1. Experience. The Phillies were just here and with many of the same players back from last season’s championship team, they know what to expect. The newness and awe of getting to the World Series has worn off, so this time around it’s all business for Philly. The Yankees haven’t been here since 2003, when they spit the bit against the Florida Marlins. Six years is a long time and though it’s true, Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte and Hideki Matsui were all around for the last rodeo, a few of them probably can’t help but feel like that it’s now or never, so the pressure will be on for the Yanks to win. Matsui, whose four-year deal is up this season, and Pettitte, who signed a one-and-done deal this season, won’t be in New York next season. The Phils are the defending champs — the pressure is off.
2. Pedro Martinez. Junior’s back to exact some revenge on the Yanks, whose fans let Martinez have it in 2004 with chants of “Who’s your daddy?!” in his return to Yankee Stadium with the Red Sox after he — with help from manager Grady Little — allowed the Yanks to come back and win Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS. Proclaiming that the Yankees must be his “daddy” before a 2004 match-up due to their recent successes against the right-hander, Yankee fans came up with the memorable line. This time around, however, will be different. While the chant is sure reign down from the stadium’s infamous Bleacher Creatures when Martinez toes the rubber for Game 2 tomorrow night, he will quickly make them shut up. Martinez thrives in the face of doubters and adversaries, and relishes the big stage that is undoubtedly Yankee Stadium. And with him entering fresh off a scoreless, six-innings effort over the Dodgers in the NLCS, Martinez will transform the chants into whimpers.
3. Alex Rodriguez. The Curse of A-Rod lives. Admittedly, the two-handed bum-grabbing bandit (watch out Derek Jeter!) Rodriguez has done much in the previous two series’ to shed his image as a postseason choke artist at the plate. The being said, Rodriguez is due for a slump. Unlike Minnesota and Anaheim, the Phillies possess the pitching that will keep the big guy off balance. Cliff Lee is dominant right now, and the aforementioned Martinez has faced Rodriguez enough to know what works. Cole Hamels and Joe Blanton probably won’t be too effective, but at least they’ll have the home crowd behind them for Games 3 and 4 in Philly.
4. Ryan Howard. Like Rodriguez, Howard has been mashing the ball this postseason (11-for-31 (.355) with seven extra-base hits and 14 RBI). Look for that to continue against the Yankees, who if they’re going to have a shot at thwarting the Phillies, must shut down Howard at the plate. Yanks starter CC Sabathia will get the first crack at Howard tonight in a lefty vs. lefty match-up.
5. Joe Girardi. The Yankees manager likes to tempt fate. He made some questionable calls with his bullpen against the Angels in the ALCS, one of which cost the Yankees Game 3 after he elected to lift reliever Dave Robertson with Alfredo Aceves with two-out in the 11th inning. The Angels responded with two straight hits and won the game. Then in Game 5, after the Yankees rallied to take a 6-4 lead in the seventh inning, Girardi’s decision to send starter A.J. Burnett back out to the mound led to the Angels copping three runs and an eventual 7-6 win to force Game 6.
My pick: Phillies in 5.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The curtain goes up on the 105th Fall Classic tonight that to the surprise of few, finds the Yankees as the American League representative. Of course, $202 million can buy you a lot of things. So, will it be enough for the Yanks to hoist the World Series trophy over their heads for the 27th time in their storied history? I say no, and here are five reasons why the Phillies and their $113 million payroll will beat the Yankees.
1. Experience. The Phillies were just here and with many of the same players back from last season’s championship team, they know what to expect. The newness and awe of getting to the World Series has worn off, so this time around it’s all business for Philly. The Yankees haven’t been here since 2003, when they spit the bit against the Florida Marlins. Six years is a long time and though it’s true, Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte and Hideki Matsui were all around for the last rodeo, a few of them probably can’t help but feel like that it’s now or never, so the pressure will be on for the Yanks to win. Matsui, whose four-year deal is up this season, and Pettitte, who signed a one-and-done deal this season, won’t be in New York next season. The Phils are the defending champs — the pressure is off.
2. Pedro Martinez. Junior’s back to exact some revenge on the Yanks, whose fans let Martinez have it in 2004 with chants of “Who’s your daddy?!” in his return to Yankee Stadium with the Red Sox after he — with help from manager Grady Little — allowed the Yanks to come back and win Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS. Proclaiming that the Yankees must be his “daddy” before a 2004 match-up due to their recent successes against the right-hander, Yankee fans came up with the memorable line. This time around, however, will be different. While the chant is sure reign down from the stadium’s infamous Bleacher Creatures when Martinez toes the rubber for Game 2 tomorrow night, he will quickly make them shut up. Martinez thrives in the face of doubters and adversaries, and relishes the big stage that is undoubtedly Yankee Stadium. And with him entering fresh off a scoreless, six-innings effort over the Dodgers in the NLCS, Martinez will transform the chants into whimpers.
3. Alex Rodriguez. The Curse of A-Rod lives. Admittedly, the two-handed bum-grabbing bandit (watch out Derek Jeter!) Rodriguez has done much in the previous two series’ to shed his image as a postseason choke artist at the plate. The being said, Rodriguez is due for a slump. Unlike Minnesota and Anaheim, the Phillies possess the pitching that will keep the big guy off balance. Cliff Lee is dominant right now, and the aforementioned Martinez has faced Rodriguez enough to know what works. Cole Hamels and Joe Blanton probably won’t be too effective, but at least they’ll have the home crowd behind them for Games 3 and 4 in Philly.
4. Ryan Howard. Like Rodriguez, Howard has been mashing the ball this postseason (11-for-31 (.355) with seven extra-base hits and 14 RBI). Look for that to continue against the Yankees, who if they’re going to have a shot at thwarting the Phillies, must shut down Howard at the plate. Yanks starter CC Sabathia will get the first crack at Howard tonight in a lefty vs. lefty match-up.
5. Joe Girardi. The Yankees manager likes to tempt fate. He made some questionable calls with his bullpen against the Angels in the ALCS, one of which cost the Yankees Game 3 after he elected to lift reliever Dave Robertson with Alfredo Aceves with two-out in the 11th inning. The Angels responded with two straight hits and won the game. Then in Game 5, after the Yankees rallied to take a 6-4 lead in the seventh inning, Girardi’s decision to send starter A.J. Burnett back out to the mound led to the Angels copping three runs and an eventual 7-6 win to force Game 6.
My pick: Phillies in 5.
Celtics look like the real deal
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Great start to hopefully another memorable season for the Boston Celtics.
In the season opener in Cleveland, a team slated to compete for the world championship, Boston showed will, toughness and poise under pressure late in the game to claim a 95-89 victory over LeBron James and the Cavaliers.
When you think of Paul Pierce, you have to think about a clutch performer in crunch time. Pierce, who carried the Celtics late in games in the playoffs two years ago and right to the championship, delivered once again last night.
Pierce didn't have a great night overall (23 points on 6-of-13 shooting, 11 rebounds), but late in the game "The Truth" canned two jump shots and then two free throws, including scoring 10 points in the last four minutes, to propel the C's.
Is it a surprise that Boston goes to Pierce when games are on the line? And you think the Cavs would have figured that out, but I guess not.
Also, how nice was it to see Kevin Garnett back on the court after knee surgery derailed his season last year. Garnett is so intense, he plays defense and can change games in the paint offensively and defensively. While he only had 13 points and 10 rebounds, we all know KG is shaking off rust and it's going to take some time to be in midseason form. But a double-double is just fine with me, carry on KG you the man!
Ray Allen had 16 points and was 4 of 5 from 3-point range, and point guard Rajon Rondo had 8 points, 10 assists and 6 rebounds.
I like Rondo, but with those numbers it's hard to believe the Celtics will pony up approximately $11-12 million per season to keep him in the green after his contract is up after the year.
How many C's fans hated Rasheed Wallace for so many years (everyone raise their hands)? But now how many like him (put those hands up again). Wallace's debut with the C's was a success. He's physical down low, loves playing defense and can score from anywhere on the floor. Wallace had 12 points and canned three treys in 24 minutes off the bench. No doubt he's got to be one of, if not, the best sixth men in the league.
Although James got his complimentary 38 points, every other Cleveland player was held in check, including Shaquille O'Neal who had 10 points and 10 rebounds.
At least for one night, all signs point to the Celtics being able to contend for another NBA championship.
But we all know Boston will have to stay relatively healthy in order to rise to the top.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Chris Maza on ESPNU
Sorry about the poor video quality, but I thought this was pretty cool. My girlfriend Eileen and I went to South Bend for the Notre Dame-Boston College game. We were on NBC when they were showing the crowd singing the alma mater after the game on Saturday, but I haven't been able to find any video of that. However, this was broadcast on ESPNU's Coaches Spotlight today.
How do the predictions hold up?
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Sorry for the delay in posting. This weekend I went to South Bend for the Notre Dame football game against Boston College and got a total of seven hours of sleep this weekend.
Seeing as how I've already broken with the schedule, let's break with the format all together and take a look back at my early predictions for the Pac-10, the Big East, the Big XII, the WAC and Notre Dame and see how my predictions are holding up thus far.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Sorry for the delay in posting. This weekend I went to South Bend for the Notre Dame football game against Boston College and got a total of seven hours of sleep this weekend.
Seeing as how I've already broken with the schedule, let's break with the format all together and take a look back at my early predictions for the Pac-10, the Big East, the Big XII, the WAC and Notre Dame and see how my predictions are holding up thus far.
This week’s game between USC and Oregon will pretty much decide the Pac- 10 conference. Oregon has been impressive since the opening week loss to Boise State and subsequent suspension of Lagarrette Blount. USC has been USC, which is to say a top-10 team that perennially loses what would normally be considered a gimme game to lose a shot at the national championship. Stanford has become a dangerous, underrated team. California’s back-to-back losses to Oregon and USC have dropped them pretty much out of the running.
The Big East is making a major statement as a football conference this year with three top-25 teams. Probably the most surprising has been Cincinnati, which sits and No. 5 and just proved it can win without one-time Heisman candidate Tony Pike under center. Pitt is undefeated on the season and West Virginia is riding a four-game win streak. Pitt (4-0), Cincinnati (3-0) and West Virginia (2-0) are all still undefeated in the conference. It figures to be exciting right down to the end. The Big East doesn’t have a championship game, but the last three weeks of the schedule shape up to be its own little playoff as all three teams play each other.
The Big East is making a major statement as a football conference this year with three top-25 teams. Probably the most surprising has been Cincinnati, which sits and No. 5 and just proved it can win without one-time Heisman candidate Tony Pike under center. Pitt is undefeated on the season and West Virginia is riding a four-game win streak. Pitt (4-0), Cincinnati (3-0) and West Virginia (2-0) are all still undefeated in the conference. It figures to be exciting right down to the end. The Big East doesn’t have a championship game, but the last three weeks of the schedule shape up to be its own little playoff as all three teams play each other.
Nevada has been mediocre this season and terrible out of the conference at 1-3. But they’re undefeated in the WAC. Boise State is undefeated as expected, thanks to a weak schedule, both in and out of conference. Idaho is 3-1 in the conference after allowing 70 points to Boise State. The biggest surprise in this conference is probably the fact that Hawaii has slipped so far. It was expected they would slump, but a 2-5 season, including 0-4 in the WAC is astoundingly bad.
While I didn't go so far as to predict the standings of the two divisions of the Big XII, but here were the predictions: Texas wins the South, Kansas wins the North. Texas wins the conference and carries its 12-1 record into the BSC national championship. As of now, Kansas State is leading the North at 3-1, having the benefit of playing Iowa State, Texas A&M and Colorado early. That could easily change with Oklahoma and Kansas in back-to-back weeks. My pick for the North, Kansas, is 1-2 in the division with back-to-back losses to Colorado and Oklahoma. In the South, Texas holds the lead at 4-0 and can pretty much wrap it up by beating Oklahoma State this weekend.
For Notre Dame, I predicted a 9-3 finish and a 5-2 record to this point with losses to Michigan State and USC. I also predicted they would fall short of a BCS bid. At this point in the season, The Irish sit at 5-2 with losses to Michigan and USC. After beating Boston College this week, Notre Dame stands at No. 23 in the BCS standings, giving them an outside shot of at-large consideration, but it appears they will have to win out. Another loss and a 9-3 record will not do it.
While I didn't go so far as to predict the standings of the two divisions of the Big XII, but here were the predictions: Texas wins the South, Kansas wins the North. Texas wins the conference and carries its 12-1 record into the BSC national championship. As of now, Kansas State is leading the North at 3-1, having the benefit of playing Iowa State, Texas A&M and Colorado early. That could easily change with Oklahoma and Kansas in back-to-back weeks. My pick for the North, Kansas, is 1-2 in the division with back-to-back losses to Colorado and Oklahoma. In the South, Texas holds the lead at 4-0 and can pretty much wrap it up by beating Oklahoma State this weekend.
For Notre Dame, I predicted a 9-3 finish and a 5-2 record to this point with losses to Michigan State and USC. I also predicted they would fall short of a BCS bid. At this point in the season, The Irish sit at 5-2 with losses to Michigan and USC. After beating Boston College this week, Notre Dame stands at No. 23 in the BCS standings, giving them an outside shot of at-large consideration, but it appears they will have to win out. Another loss and a 9-3 record will not do it.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Grow up Red Sox Nation!
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The New York Yankees are going to the World Series!!!
It's a great day in Yankeeville, but for the Nation it's a very dark day.
I just can't believe all the frauds that wear a Boston Red Sox "B" on their cap and have now come out of the woodwork to cheer on the Phillies.
It's a complete joke if you ask me.
Granted, Red Sox and Yankees fans each don't get along -- we all know that's well documented - but the Nation is back to spewing insults in every direction, hoping that the hated Yankees don't win the World Series.
Go to any Internet site where there's Yankees talk or even Red Sox talk -- even Facebook for that matter -- and you'll find all the haters coming out of every direction to bash the Yankees.
For you Red Sox fans who don't appreciate the fine art of baseball, it's totally false that the Yankees suck. Time to realize it, accept it and move on.
It's funny how Red Sox fans are suppose to cheer for their team only and hate everyone else that stands in the way of the Nation, but now fans are turning in their Red Sox red for Phillies red? Come on now. The biggest supporters of the Phillies now live in New England?
Excuse me while I barf.
I know there's no way in hell that Sox fans will root for the Yankees -- and I wouldn't expect them, too, either -- but to go way out of your way to fire off insults and do anything in your verbal power to try to jinx or bash the Yankees is a little childish in my book.
The Yankees made the World Series and finished off the Angels which the Red Sox couldn't do, but big deal. Root for the Phillies all you want, but your team has been eliminated already so pipe down.
Ever hear of when you lose you're not suppose to talk trash, you're in no position to do so? Plus, no one will take your seriously.
Actually, it's nice to see that there are some Red Sox fans that do appreciate "good baseball" as one of my Red Sox friends puts it, but the hate, arrogance, negativity and jealousy just makes you look bad.
You win with class and lose with class. Tip your cap on a job well done and move on.
Obviously, a good portion of the Nation (I will not group everyone in that statement) hasn't figured that out.
Week 7 Recap: Patriots Enjoy London Vacation
By Dan Shouse Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Week 7 in the NFL was the week of the blowout, with the Patriots leading the blowout brigade in London.
Patriots 35 (5-2) Buccaneers 7 (0-7)
As expected, the Pats dominated from start to finish, as the Patriots picked up their first "road" win of the season in London. Brady went over 300 yards for the second straight week, and the defense also contributed with a Brandon Meriweather int return for a TD. The Patriots are starting to look like the Patriots of 2007, having scored 94 points the last two games.
Colts 42 (6-0) Rams 6 (0-7)
Peyton Manning was held under 300 yards passing for the first time this season, but the Colts were still able to dominate the hapless Rams to remain perfect on the season. The Rams have now lost 17 straight games dating back to last season.
Steelers 27 (5-2) Vikings 17 (6-1)
Ben Roethlisberger and the offense struggled at times, but the Steeler defense picked them up, scoring twice to hand Brett Favre and the Vikings their first loss of the season. Favre's last minute attempt to get the Vikings into position for a game tying field goal ended after he threw an interception that was returned by Keyaron Fox for a touchdown.
Chargers 37 (3-3) Chiefs 7 (1-6)
Is there anyone who still thinks the Patriots should have tried to keep Matt Cassel? Cassel had another miserable day, throwing for only 97 yards and 3 ints, as the Chargers rolled to an easy win at Arrowhead. Phillip Rivers threw for three scores, as the Chargers finally looked like a playoff team.
Packers 31 (4-2) Brown 3 (1-6)
If Packer fans were worried that their team may have been overlooking the Browns and thinking ahead to next week's game against Favre and the Vikings, they shouldn't have been. After falling behind 3-0 early, the Pack went to work, as Aaron Rodgers threw 3 TD passes for the day. The defense took over from there (although that's not hard to do against Cleveland) and held the Browns to 139 yard of total offense.
Texans 24 (4-3) 49ers 21 (3-3)
In perhaps the best game of the weekend, the Texans were able to hold off a second half comeback attempt by the 49ers to earn their second straight win. The biggest story of the game may have been the play of 49ers QB Alex Smith, who replaced an ineffective Shaun Hill. Smith, the former top pick in the draft, threw 3 TDs, all to Vernon Davis, to make it close. The comeback fell short however, as a late interception by Eugene Wilson sealed the win for Houston. Steve Slaton added a receiving and rushing TD for the Texans.
Bengals 45 (5-2) Bears 10 (3-3)
This one was over early. Carson Palmer threw 4 TD passes on the Bengals first 4 possessions, and Cedric Benson got his revenge on his former team rushing for 189 yards and a touchdown. It looks like the Bengals, yes the Bengals, may be for real after all.
Jets 38 (4-3) Raiders 0 (2-5)
Does Richard Seymour still think the Raiders are a playoff team? The Jets took the ball out of rookie Mark Sanchez's hands and let the running back tandem of Shonn Greene and Thomas Jones take over. Green and Jones combined to run for over 260 yards and 3TDs. For the Raiders, last weeks win over the Eagles must feel like a distant memory.
Bills 20 (3-4) Panters 9 (2-4)
The Panthers literally threw this one away, turning the ball over 4 times, including 3 more Jake Delhomme ints, to give the Bills the win. At least Steve Smith should feel better, as he managed to catch six balls for 99 yards.
Cowboys 37 (4-2) Falcons 21 (4-2) What do you know, Tony Romo actually stepped up and won an important game. Romo was also helped by new fantasy football stud Miles Austin, who went over 170 yards receiving and scored 2 TDs.
Saints 46 (6-0) Dolphins 34 (2-4) It wasn't as easy as the final score made it look, but the Saints remain undefeated with a win over the Dolphins in Miami. Trialing 24-10 at the half, the Saints came to life, scoring 36 points in the second half. Drew Brees struggled at times, throwing 3 ints, but the New Orleans defense picked him up, scoring twice, included a late int return for a TD to ice the comeback win.
Cardinals 24 (4-2) Giants 17 (5-2)
Behind a defense that forced three Eli Manning ints, the Arizona Cardinals scored a huge road win at Giants Stadium. The win puts the Cardinals alone in first place in the NFC West, while the suddenly struggling Giants have now lost two game in a row.
Week 7 in the NFL was the week of the blowout, with the Patriots leading the blowout brigade in London.
Patriots 35 (5-2) Buccaneers 7 (0-7)
As expected, the Pats dominated from start to finish, as the Patriots picked up their first "road" win of the season in London. Brady went over 300 yards for the second straight week, and the defense also contributed with a Brandon Meriweather int return for a TD. The Patriots are starting to look like the Patriots of 2007, having scored 94 points the last two games.
Colts 42 (6-0) Rams 6 (0-7)
Peyton Manning was held under 300 yards passing for the first time this season, but the Colts were still able to dominate the hapless Rams to remain perfect on the season. The Rams have now lost 17 straight games dating back to last season.
Steelers 27 (5-2) Vikings 17 (6-1)
Ben Roethlisberger and the offense struggled at times, but the Steeler defense picked them up, scoring twice to hand Brett Favre and the Vikings their first loss of the season. Favre's last minute attempt to get the Vikings into position for a game tying field goal ended after he threw an interception that was returned by Keyaron Fox for a touchdown.
Chargers 37 (3-3) Chiefs 7 (1-6)
Is there anyone who still thinks the Patriots should have tried to keep Matt Cassel? Cassel had another miserable day, throwing for only 97 yards and 3 ints, as the Chargers rolled to an easy win at Arrowhead. Phillip Rivers threw for three scores, as the Chargers finally looked like a playoff team.
Packers 31 (4-2) Brown 3 (1-6)
If Packer fans were worried that their team may have been overlooking the Browns and thinking ahead to next week's game against Favre and the Vikings, they shouldn't have been. After falling behind 3-0 early, the Pack went to work, as Aaron Rodgers threw 3 TD passes for the day. The defense took over from there (although that's not hard to do against Cleveland) and held the Browns to 139 yard of total offense.
Texans 24 (4-3) 49ers 21 (3-3)
In perhaps the best game of the weekend, the Texans were able to hold off a second half comeback attempt by the 49ers to earn their second straight win. The biggest story of the game may have been the play of 49ers QB Alex Smith, who replaced an ineffective Shaun Hill. Smith, the former top pick in the draft, threw 3 TDs, all to Vernon Davis, to make it close. The comeback fell short however, as a late interception by Eugene Wilson sealed the win for Houston. Steve Slaton added a receiving and rushing TD for the Texans.
Bengals 45 (5-2) Bears 10 (3-3)
This one was over early. Carson Palmer threw 4 TD passes on the Bengals first 4 possessions, and Cedric Benson got his revenge on his former team rushing for 189 yards and a touchdown. It looks like the Bengals, yes the Bengals, may be for real after all.
Jets 38 (4-3) Raiders 0 (2-5)
Does Richard Seymour still think the Raiders are a playoff team? The Jets took the ball out of rookie Mark Sanchez's hands and let the running back tandem of Shonn Greene and Thomas Jones take over. Green and Jones combined to run for over 260 yards and 3TDs. For the Raiders, last weeks win over the Eagles must feel like a distant memory.
Bills 20 (3-4) Panters 9 (2-4)
The Panthers literally threw this one away, turning the ball over 4 times, including 3 more Jake Delhomme ints, to give the Bills the win. At least Steve Smith should feel better, as he managed to catch six balls for 99 yards.
Cowboys 37 (4-2) Falcons 21 (4-2) What do you know, Tony Romo actually stepped up and won an important game. Romo was also helped by new fantasy football stud Miles Austin, who went over 170 yards receiving and scored 2 TDs.
Saints 46 (6-0) Dolphins 34 (2-4) It wasn't as easy as the final score made it look, but the Saints remain undefeated with a win over the Dolphins in Miami. Trialing 24-10 at the half, the Saints came to life, scoring 36 points in the second half. Drew Brees struggled at times, throwing 3 ints, but the New Orleans defense picked him up, scoring twice, included a late int return for a TD to ice the comeback win.
Cardinals 24 (4-2) Giants 17 (5-2)
Behind a defense that forced three Eli Manning ints, the Arizona Cardinals scored a huge road win at Giants Stadium. The win puts the Cardinals alone in first place in the NFC West, while the suddenly struggling Giants have now lost two game in a row.
Monday Night Football: Redskins Shame of National Display
By Dan Shouse
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Are you ready for some boring football?
The embarrassment that is the Washington Redskins face the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night in a game that figures to be as exciting as a Bill Belichick post game interview.
It is one thing for Redskins fans to have to suffer in silence, now the shame gets to be displayed on a national stage. The Redskins have had the easiest schedule in the NFL so far this season, facing teams like the Rams, Bucs, Panthers and Chiefs, but have just a 2-4 record to show for it.
The offense is the main culprit for the Redskins struggles, and as a result, head coach Jim Zorn was stripped of his play calling duties. So now the Redskins have a coach, one who first hired as an offensive coordinator, holding no real power. Why not just fire him? Yet another example of how dysfunctional this franchise has become.
The quick and easy thing to do is to blame the coach, but the problems with this team starts at the top. Dan Sydner changes coaches more often than some people change their underwear. Norv Turner, Marty Schottenheimer, Steve Spurrier, and Joe Gibbs, have all come and gone in the last ten years, but one thing remains constant - Dan Snyder. Plus Dan Snyder is young, only 43 years old, so its not like he will be going anywhere soon. Does anyone really believe anything will change as long as he owns the team? Say one thing, the guy sure spends money to try and put a winner on the field, but it never works out. Get used to it Redskins nation. This is how your team is going to look for a long time.
The Redskins are not the only team with questions marks heading into this one. The Eagles suffered a shocking loss to the lowly Oakland Raiders last time out. After looking great the previous three weeks, the Eagles offensive struggled against the Raiders, only putting up 3 David Akers field goals. With Donovan McNabb, Brian Westbrook, and DeSean Jackson, there is just too much offensive talent on the Eagles to not get at least one touchdown.
Don't expect to see the Eagles kept out of the end zone this week. The Eagles are simply the better team. After looking like they were not ready to play last week in Oakland, count on the Eagles to come out firing on all cylinders against the Redskins on Monday night. Once again the Redskins will have no answers. Did Redskins fans expect anything different?
Prediction: Eagles 23 Redskins 6
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Are you ready for some boring football?
The embarrassment that is the Washington Redskins face the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night in a game that figures to be as exciting as a Bill Belichick post game interview.
It is one thing for Redskins fans to have to suffer in silence, now the shame gets to be displayed on a national stage. The Redskins have had the easiest schedule in the NFL so far this season, facing teams like the Rams, Bucs, Panthers and Chiefs, but have just a 2-4 record to show for it.
The offense is the main culprit for the Redskins struggles, and as a result, head coach Jim Zorn was stripped of his play calling duties. So now the Redskins have a coach, one who first hired as an offensive coordinator, holding no real power. Why not just fire him? Yet another example of how dysfunctional this franchise has become.
The quick and easy thing to do is to blame the coach, but the problems with this team starts at the top. Dan Sydner changes coaches more often than some people change their underwear. Norv Turner, Marty Schottenheimer, Steve Spurrier, and Joe Gibbs, have all come and gone in the last ten years, but one thing remains constant - Dan Snyder. Plus Dan Snyder is young, only 43 years old, so its not like he will be going anywhere soon. Does anyone really believe anything will change as long as he owns the team? Say one thing, the guy sure spends money to try and put a winner on the field, but it never works out. Get used to it Redskins nation. This is how your team is going to look for a long time.
The Redskins are not the only team with questions marks heading into this one. The Eagles suffered a shocking loss to the lowly Oakland Raiders last time out. After looking great the previous three weeks, the Eagles offensive struggled against the Raiders, only putting up 3 David Akers field goals. With Donovan McNabb, Brian Westbrook, and DeSean Jackson, there is just too much offensive talent on the Eagles to not get at least one touchdown.
Don't expect to see the Eagles kept out of the end zone this week. The Eagles are simply the better team. After looking like they were not ready to play last week in Oakland, count on the Eagles to come out firing on all cylinders against the Redskins on Monday night. Once again the Redskins will have no answers. Did Redskins fans expect anything different?
Prediction: Eagles 23 Redskins 6
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Week 7 Predictions: Pats Will Enjoy Week Off in London
By Dan Shouse
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
For the first time this season, I am coming off a good week, posting an 11-3 record for week six. It's time to see if I can build off last week, or if it was just a fluke and I return to mediocrity. Now on to the picks.
Patriots 35 Buccaneers 14
The Patriots get a mid season vacation to London, as the Bucs have no chance in this one. The Bucs defense has been letting up a lot of big plays, and now they get to go against the Patriots coming off a 59-0 win a week ago. To make matters worse for the Bucs, this counts as one of their home games.
I tried to work a reference to "London Calling," by The Clash into this prediction, but figured anyone who will read this likely has never heard of The Clash, and I would have looked really old as a result.
Texans 31 49ers 21
Michael Crabtree finally plays this season, and Frank Gore returns from injury, but it will not be enough to help the 49ers get by the Texans. Matt Schaub will continue to impress, as he leads a potent Houston offense to victory.
Packers 38 Browns 7
The Browns have looked sick all year, and now they are literally sick, as a large part of the team apparently has the flu. Don't look for Green Bay to take it easy however, as the Pack will get an easy win in Cleveland.
Chargers 30 Chiefs 17
The Chargers have been one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL so far this season. No running game, and no defense, has the Chargers looking very average at best. Luckily the Chargers face the Chiefs this week, a team that is just what the doctor order for San Diego. The Chiefs have not been able to stop the run this season, and Matt Cassel hasn't exactly been on fire on offense. San Diego gets the win.
Colts 44 Rams 3
Talk about two teams headed in opposite directions. The Colts look like they could go undefeated, and the Rams look like they may not get a win this year. Remember, the Rams could not beat the Redskins. If you can't beat Washington, who can you beat? Certainly not the Colts. Peyton Manning will once again go over 300 yards as the Colts continue to look like the best team in the NFL.
Steelers 28 Vikings 24
In one of the better looking match ups this week, it will be Big Ben who gets the better of Brett Favre, handing the Vikings their first loss of the season. Its about time Favre comes back to earth, and starts doing what he does best - throwing ints.
Raiders 14 Jets 13
A few week back, the Jets looked like the real deal. Now, it looks like the Jets season could spiral out of control. Mark Sanchez struggled mightily last week, throwing 5ints. Things will not get any better this week against a solid Oakland defense. The Jets will also be without Kris Jenkins on the D-line. The Raiders will get just enough offense, and pull off another upset. Poor Rex Ryan.
Panthers 17 Bills 10
These two team are almost mirror images of each other. Both have bad quarterbacks (Jake Delhomme, Ryan Fitzpatrick) and unhappy diva receivers (TO, Steve Smith). Since this game is in Charlotte, I will pick the Panthers.
Bears 21 Bengals 17
Cedric Benson will have a solid game, but it will be Jay Cutler and the Bears getting the last laugh this week. If not for a pair of costly mistakes against the Falcons (Forte's fumble, false start penalty late in the 4th quarter) then the Bears could have beaten the Falcons a week ago. They will eliminate the mistakes this week and get the win in Cincy.
Falcons 27 Cowboys 23
This is the kind of game that Tony Romo needs to step up and win. Once again, he will fall short. The Falcons are a good club, and the Cowboys just don't measure up, especially at QB.
Saints 38 Dolphins 20
This may not be the Saints only trip to Miami this season. The offense will shine again, as New Orleans may be returning to South Florida later this season to play in the Super Bowl.
Giants 33 Cardinals 28
The Giants are poised to bounce back after a disappointing performance in New Orleans last time out. Plus factor in Arizona's struggles whenever they play on the east coast, and all signs point to a Giant victory.
Eagles 23 Redskins 6
What is Jim Zorn supposed to do now that the play calling has been taken away? Just stand there? The Eagles didn't play well last week, but its hard to imagine such a dysfunctional franchise such as Washington doing anything right.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
For the first time this season, I am coming off a good week, posting an 11-3 record for week six. It's time to see if I can build off last week, or if it was just a fluke and I return to mediocrity. Now on to the picks.
Patriots 35 Buccaneers 14
The Patriots get a mid season vacation to London, as the Bucs have no chance in this one. The Bucs defense has been letting up a lot of big plays, and now they get to go against the Patriots coming off a 59-0 win a week ago. To make matters worse for the Bucs, this counts as one of their home games.
I tried to work a reference to "London Calling," by The Clash into this prediction, but figured anyone who will read this likely has never heard of The Clash, and I would have looked really old as a result.
Texans 31 49ers 21
Michael Crabtree finally plays this season, and Frank Gore returns from injury, but it will not be enough to help the 49ers get by the Texans. Matt Schaub will continue to impress, as he leads a potent Houston offense to victory.
Packers 38 Browns 7
The Browns have looked sick all year, and now they are literally sick, as a large part of the team apparently has the flu. Don't look for Green Bay to take it easy however, as the Pack will get an easy win in Cleveland.
Chargers 30 Chiefs 17
The Chargers have been one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL so far this season. No running game, and no defense, has the Chargers looking very average at best. Luckily the Chargers face the Chiefs this week, a team that is just what the doctor order for San Diego. The Chiefs have not been able to stop the run this season, and Matt Cassel hasn't exactly been on fire on offense. San Diego gets the win.
Colts 44 Rams 3
Talk about two teams headed in opposite directions. The Colts look like they could go undefeated, and the Rams look like they may not get a win this year. Remember, the Rams could not beat the Redskins. If you can't beat Washington, who can you beat? Certainly not the Colts. Peyton Manning will once again go over 300 yards as the Colts continue to look like the best team in the NFL.
Steelers 28 Vikings 24
In one of the better looking match ups this week, it will be Big Ben who gets the better of Brett Favre, handing the Vikings their first loss of the season. Its about time Favre comes back to earth, and starts doing what he does best - throwing ints.
Raiders 14 Jets 13
A few week back, the Jets looked like the real deal. Now, it looks like the Jets season could spiral out of control. Mark Sanchez struggled mightily last week, throwing 5ints. Things will not get any better this week against a solid Oakland defense. The Jets will also be without Kris Jenkins on the D-line. The Raiders will get just enough offense, and pull off another upset. Poor Rex Ryan.
Panthers 17 Bills 10
These two team are almost mirror images of each other. Both have bad quarterbacks (Jake Delhomme, Ryan Fitzpatrick) and unhappy diva receivers (TO, Steve Smith). Since this game is in Charlotte, I will pick the Panthers.
Bears 21 Bengals 17
Cedric Benson will have a solid game, but it will be Jay Cutler and the Bears getting the last laugh this week. If not for a pair of costly mistakes against the Falcons (Forte's fumble, false start penalty late in the 4th quarter) then the Bears could have beaten the Falcons a week ago. They will eliminate the mistakes this week and get the win in Cincy.
Falcons 27 Cowboys 23
This is the kind of game that Tony Romo needs to step up and win. Once again, he will fall short. The Falcons are a good club, and the Cowboys just don't measure up, especially at QB.
Saints 38 Dolphins 20
This may not be the Saints only trip to Miami this season. The offense will shine again, as New Orleans may be returning to South Florida later this season to play in the Super Bowl.
Giants 33 Cardinals 28
The Giants are poised to bounce back after a disappointing performance in New Orleans last time out. Plus factor in Arizona's struggles whenever they play on the east coast, and all signs point to a Giant victory.
Eagles 23 Redskins 6
What is Jim Zorn supposed to do now that the play calling has been taken away? Just stand there? The Eagles didn't play well last week, but its hard to imagine such a dysfunctional franchise such as Washington doing anything right.
It's time for the Patriots to take out the trash (Bucs)
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Don't be afraid of these Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it's not like they have the double-trouble duo of WD-40 (remember Warrick Dunn and Mike Alstott?) to run wild on opposing defenses.
This Tampa team is pure trash. Actually, they are worse than that. Fill in the blank: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are ________.
Either way, the New England Patriots are next up on the schedule and it's time for the Pats to take out the trash.
Is there any way the Bucs can compete with New England? No.
Well, if Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Laurence Maroney, Jerod Mayo and Brandon Merriweather were out of action, it would be a decent game. But I bet the Pats would win that, too.
The best storyline is that the game is being played at historic Wembley Stadium in London. Yes, it's the way that the NFL is trying to globalize real football, not that soccer crap that is so boring to watch except during the World Cup.
The fourth regular season NFL game played outside of the U.S. should be a smoke show from start to finish.
There's a reason why the Bucs are 0-6. Bad QB, offensive line, defense ...it all boils down to a long year in Tampa.
The biggest question that remains is how many points will the Pats hang up on this punchless Bucs group? Can they score 60 points? I doubt it, but the Pats did light up the Titans last week for 59. Watching last week's game reminded me of playing Madden on the PlayStation and going wild on the scoreboard. How much fun was that to watch?
This should be another laugher.
Teams need real weapons to beat other teams, and the Bucs don't have those guys. The QB play has been terrible. Byron Leftwich lost is starting job (are you shocked?) and now they're going with Josh Johnson (5 INTs already this year). It's only a matter of time before first-round pick Josh Freeman takes over.
Yikes, yikes, yikes.
Two key players to look out for on Tampa's offense are running back Cadillac Williams (276 yards rushing, 2 TDs), who has returned nicely from serious knee injuries, and the solider Kellen Winslow (29 catches, 286 yards, 4 TDS, which are all team-highs).
Rest assured the Pats will stop both of them and put the pressure on Johnson to drop back and win the game with his pee-shooter. And it won't happen.
New England's defense has held two opponents to 10 points or less, and the Bucs will be the third.
It's going to be an offensive show as Brady goes nuts through the air -- just like in Madden football.
I'll warn you now, it's not going to be pretty -- women and children be advised to cover your eyes. Watch the Pats run up and down the field like it's a track meet. They can score at will, and they will. Plus, after a complete butt-whoopin', the Pats get to fly back home and go on a mini vacation since it's their bye week.
What a better way to enjoy the bye than kicking the Bucs right in the fanny and laughing all the way back to Foxboro.
Yes, this week it's good to be a New England Patriots fan.
Prediction: Patriots, 41-6
Friday, October 23, 2009
Fantasy Football Friday: Week 7
By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Can you believe that your fantasy football season will be half way done at the conclusion of this weeks' game? I certainly can't. If you're like me, the start to your fantasy season went off with a bang, but has quickly turned into a whimper. Now is the time to take full stock of the fantasy landscape and hit the trade market.
Week 7 Best Match Ups:
1. Patriots @ Buccaneers: Do you remember what the Pats did to the Titans last week? I doubt they'll win 59-0 again, but I look for them to do something very similar. I don't care about the travel to London. I don't care about playing on a soccer field. Tom Brady, Randy Moss & Wes Welker will all have great days. Other Pats plays for the weekend are Lawrence Maroney, Patriots Defense and Sam Aiken (but only in deep, deep leagues).
2. Packers @ Browns: The last time I checked, the Cleveland Browns were an awful, awful team. This week 12 Brown players are sick with the flu. What does that mean? Start anyone you can get your hands on for the Packers. Aaron Rodgers, Ryan Grant, Jermichael Finley and both Greg Jennings and Donald Driver, not to mention the Packers Defense.
3. Colts @ Rams: I feel really bad even including the best match ups for the fantasy article this weekend. It's the most obvious three games all year I think. This Colts game is no different. Just like the Browns and Bucs, the Rams are an awful team. Despite splitting carries, both Donald Brown and Joseph Addai are worth a start this week. Even if Addia doesn't get the bulk of carries, he will get his catches. He already has 26 on the season, so if you play in PPR league, than this is a no brainer. I don't have to tell you to start Peyton Manning, Dallas Clark and Reggie Wayne. I would suggest starting Austin Collie over Pierre Garcon because Manning has been targeting Collie more the past few weeks.
Make em' ride the bench:
QB - Mark Sanchez, Brett Favre & Jason Campbell
Oakland's defense is 28th against the run so look for the Jets to keep the ball out of Sanchez's hands. Brett Favre is going against the Steelers defense. This just sounds like a 3 interception game for me. What is going on with Jason Campbell and the Redskins? Will he even start?
RB - Jamal Lewis, Carnell Williams, Brandon Jacobs
In my opinion, there isn't a real fantasy starter on the Browns, and that includes Lewis. Cadillac is going against a Pats defense that has nothing else to worry about, and Brandon Jacobs is losing carries to Ahmad Bradshaw and going up against a team that is the best defense against the run and allows on 2.8 yards per carry.
WR - Santana Moss, Desean Jackson, Kevin Walter
The Eagles/Redskins match up is not a good one for either team when it comes to the passing game. Both teams are in the top 10 in pass defense. I was very big on Kevin Walter prior to the season, but I don't trust him anymore. With the exception of 1 week, he's done nothing.
TE - Dustin Keller & Zach Miller
Both of these guys are going against each other this weekend. I can't stand the Jets passing game this week. Despite a huge game last week, I think the Jets D will virtually shut down Miller this weekend.
K - Ryan Longwell
I don't trust kickers in Heinz Field.
DEF - Dolphins & Giants
Miami's defense may be ranked 10th overall, but they're taking on the most prolific offensive team so far in the Saints. The Giants in their loss against the Saints and take on another good passing offense in the Cardinals.
Put em' in the lineup:
QB - Eli Manning, Jay Cutler & Matt Schaub
Eli should be passing all day long on the Cardinals. Of course I said they same thing about Matt Hasellback last week. Cincy's defense is pretty good, but you can pass on them, and Matt Schaub is an must start now.
RB - Marshawn Lynch, Lawrence Maroney, Frank Gore
The Panthers are god awful against the run so I think this will be Lynch's first good fantasy week. This might be the last good fantasy week for Maroney, but he is the featured back against a bad defense. Ride him while you can. Frank Gore is an obvious start, but I just wanted to make sure you know he's back and healthy.
WR - Hakeem Nicks, Johnny Knox, Michael Crabtree
Nicks and Eli seem to have developed great chemistry. Watch out for the rookie the rest of the way. I just like Knox and so does Cutler. I know it's Crabtree's first game, but I think talent will win out. It will also help that Hill will make an effort to get him involved.
TE - Brent Celek & Visanthe Shiancoe
Celek will be the beneficiary of taking on a good pass defense & Shiancoe will benefit from have a set of wideouts who can't get open against the Steelers
DEF - Patriots, Bills, Saints
The Pats and Saints are a bit obvious. Sorry about that, but I like the Bills against the Panthers. The passing game doesn't worry me, so they can concentrate shutting down the run.
Good luck!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Eagles swoop into South Bend
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
It is upon us. Call it what you would like. The Vatican Bowl. The Jesuit Invitational (Even though Notre Dame isn’t Jesuit. Jesuits owned the land first and set up a mission there, but the actual school was founded by the Congregation Sante Cruce - Congregation of the Holy Cross). The Holy War. I tend to stay away from using the term “Holy War” because it’s also used in another one of this weekend’s matchups - TCU and BYU. But regardless of what you call it, this is a game that is circled on almost every Boston College fan’s calendar.
So the real question is this - does the Notre Dame-Boston College series qualify as a rivalry?
Boston College takes a vested interest in this game because in terms of football, it is trying to lose that moniker of that “other” Catholic university and they believe that beating Notre Dame will help them shake that. It will help, but if Boston College really wants to get out of Notre Dame’s shadow, it is going to have to have some national success. Going to back-to-back ACC Championships (and likely going back for a third straight) is nice, but failing to win it or have any real clout in terms of the BCS is not helping the Eagles’ case that they can be taken seriously as a great football team. It wasn’t until 2005 that the Eagles were even in the BCS picture. They have been visible every year since, but their best final ranking is 14th. Boston College lacks any real prominence mainly because it hasn’t done anything to garner it. Ever. So in the absence of a true accomplishment, BC football fans revel in having played spoiler to Notre Dame in 1993 with a last-second field goal that ultimately cost the Irish a chance at the National Championship.
That kick in 1993 is the one and only thing that really makes Notre Dame football fans’ blood boil when it comes to Boston College. I still remember watching that game at 11 years old, then going into my room and crying. To say that Notre Dame isn’t irked by having lost to an opponent it considers inferior would obviously be a lie, but the question is this: Does Boston College evoke any emotions that would be any different than those that would be felt towards any other team that beat them six times in a row?
The real reason the Notre Dame-Boston College matchup means so much to the Irish is because EVERY game means so much to the Irish, especially years like this year where they still have an outside shot at a BCS berth. By being an independent, every game counts. To be realistic, even if Boston College loses the game this Saturday, they still have an outside shot at the BCS because they have the benefit of playing in one of the Big 6 conferences. They lose to Notre Dame and they still have a share of the lead in the ACC Atlantic and a weak schedule the rest of the way, giving them a legitimate shot at playing in the ACC championship. They win the championship game, however unlikely that may be, and they’re in. Notre Dame has no such luxury. Every game is a must-win, not only for pride. Their postseason fate depends on it. So sure, in that respect, Notre Dame may hold a grudge knowing that Boston College has played a hand in depriving it of a better bowl game in each of the last six seasons the two teams have played each other.
This isn’t to take anything away from the series. With these two schools being the premier Catholic football programs and educational institutions in the country, it’s only fitting that they should play annually and I hope the two sides can reach an agreement to extend the series beyond 2011. A game like this always should have a place in college football. And you cannot dismiss how entertaining this series has been. This will be the 10th matchup between these two squads since the formation of the BCS and in the previous nine, six have been decided by a touchdown or less and 2008 was the first time a team won by more than two touchdowns since 1997. But the bottom line is these two teams didn't even start playing each other on a regular basis until 1992 when the schools tried to market it and force a rivalry because of the two schools' religious affiliation. If it was really a big deal for these teams to play each other because they're the best Catholic football teams, why have these two teams, both of which had football programs since the 1800's, only started playing less than two decades ago? Let's not forget that Boston College was an independent until 1991 when it joined the Big East, so there was schedule flexibility for both schools.
As for this week’s game, it is a battle of the unknowns. Fans of both teams are sitting back and wondering, “Just how good are we?”
Boston College sits at 5-2 on the season, which includes an impressive 5-0 mark at home. But that also means they are 0-2 on the road in and in front of crowds larger than 50,000, both of which come into play in the game in South Bend. The five wins, and all of their statistics, are skewed somewhat by playing the likes of Northeastern, which still has yet to win an FCS game, and Kent State, ranked somewhere around 100th by most ranking systems. That said, the Eagles did to those teams what you’d expect to do to teams of that stature. Outside of those games, the Eagles are 3-2. The loss to Clemson was ugly with only 54 yards of total offense and was the reason Justin Tuggle lost his starting job the Dave Shinskie. Shinskie has had his ups and downs, which are to be expected, regardless of how old you are as a freshman. He’s shown the ability to exploit weak defenses (see all three wins: Wake Forest, Florida State, and NC State). Fortunately for Boston College fans, the Irish have an extremely weak pass defense.
Montel Harris has show flashes as a sophomore, including setting school records for rushing yards in a game and touchdowns in a game against NC State. But if there’s one thing that has improved on the Notre Dame defense, it’s the front seven. Anytime you have a true freshman linebacker as one of your biggest playmakers, you have to worry, but the Irish have definitely gotten better, which was evident in three-straight goal-line stands against Washington and holding USC’s Joe McKnight at bay for most of the day last Saturday. The key to defending Harris is to actually wrap him up. If you look at tape from both the NC State game and the Florida State game -his two biggest of the season - teams thought that by simply lowering a shoulder into Harris, you could get him down. Not the case. He may not be the biggest guy, but he can run big and if you don’t wrap him up, he’s got speed to burn in the open field.
Anyone who thought that Boston College’s defense was just going to completely implode with the losses of B.J. Raji, Ron Brace and Mark Herzlich (who it’s great to hear is doing so well, by the way), had to be fruit loops. With defensive coordinator Frank Spaziani taking over, you knew defense was still going to be the focus and as well as they have recruited defensive players over the years, there was no reason to think the Eagles wouldn’t be strong on defense. However, with that said, the Eagles are not the shut down unit they were a year ago. Against the only truly dynamic offense they’ve faced all season in Virginia Tech, the Eagles were lit up for over 400 yards and 48 points. This isn’t to say Notre Dame is at all as good as the Hokies, but the offense compares better than it does to any other offense the Eagles have played.
Notre Dame is 4-2 on the year with each of its last five games coming down to the last minute or overtime. It’s hard to tell exactly where the Irish stand because they conceivably were seconds away from being 6-0, but at the same token, moments away from being 1-5. Wins against Purdue, Michigan State and Washington were way too close considering these teams appeared on paper to be inferior. But on the same note, the Irish took USC, a team that clearly has more talent, to the brink.
For the Irish, the team goes as Jimmy Clausen goes and so far this season, that’s been pretty good. Clausen now has 14 touchdowns, two interceptions and the third-highest quarterback rating in college football. The one knock on Clausen early on was that he didn’t face a Top-40 defense all season. Well, he did against USC and didn’t do half bad. The first half he struggled, partly because of the swarming front four of USC, but once he figured out how to read the defense, Clausen settled in, passing for more yards than the Trojans had let up in a game through the air all season and connecting with Golden Tate on the only two touchdowns USC allowed on the season via the pass.
Tate has done a little bit of everything for the Irish. With maybe the best wide receiver in the country on the sidelines, Charlie Weis has moved Tate all over the field to prevent defenses from being able to key on him. He’s played flanker, split end, slot, running back and has worked as the quarterback out of the Wildcat. He ranks fifth in the nation in receiving and has scored seven total touchdowns. Robby Parris is a question mark in this game. He played a huge role in the USC game as the Trojans double and triple covered Tate all day, but was injured on the Irish’s final drive, which fell four yards short. Parris had his hip, knee and ankle MRI’d and no damage was found, but with the way that leg was bent under him, it wouldn’t be surprising to see his role reduced. Duval Kamara, who has been an outlet for Clausen in the past, but slipped on his route fourth and goal, leading to the incompletion as time expired against USC, will surely see more time. Shaquelle Evans, a big-time recruit from Southern California, whose athleticism Irish fans have heard so much about, but have yet to see, may also factor into the mix.
Kyle Rudolph is the end zone threat for Irish with Michael Floyd out. The sophomore is big, strong and has soft hands. He is one of those hybrid tight end/wide receivers that are springing up all over the nation and he just might be one of the best. The Irish needed to keep him on the line to block when USC was getting constant pressure on Clausen, so if the Eagles can get to Clausen early, they could take away one of his main weapons in the passing game.
Armando Allen is back from injury and while most feel the Irish running game was inconsistent against the Trojans last week, I thought Allen did a great job moving the football. When healthy this season, Allen has shown an ability to hit holes hard, avoid going down after first contact and break open for long runs in the open field. Robert Hughes, on the other hand, has not been as impressive and Weis may want to start shying away from him again. Hughes is a good change of pace for Allen, but he should not be receiving more touches than him.
Defensively, the Irish were supposed to get better with the arrival of defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta, but the Irish have taken a step back. It’s hard to run an aggressive defense when you don’t have the athleticism. Notre Dame is on the right track with recruits like Manti Te’o, but there aren’t enough cogs to make this machine work. Tenuta’s defenses require the secondary to be on an island with its receivers and to this point, the secondary has looked overmatched.
Prediction: Clausen has had success against better defenses and as long as he can keep memories of last year’s implosion from impeding his focus, the offense should be fine. If the Irish grab an early, lead, this could turn into a shootout, as Shinskie will be forced to pass and the Irish defense has not looked up to the task against any passing attack this season. Still, in terms of sheer talent and ability, the edge goes to Notre Dame. Notre Dame 33, Boston College 28
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
It is upon us. Call it what you would like. The Vatican Bowl. The Jesuit Invitational (Even though Notre Dame isn’t Jesuit. Jesuits owned the land first and set up a mission there, but the actual school was founded by the Congregation Sante Cruce - Congregation of the Holy Cross). The Holy War. I tend to stay away from using the term “Holy War” because it’s also used in another one of this weekend’s matchups - TCU and BYU. But regardless of what you call it, this is a game that is circled on almost every Boston College fan’s calendar.
So the real question is this - does the Notre Dame-Boston College series qualify as a rivalry?
Boston College takes a vested interest in this game because in terms of football, it is trying to lose that moniker of that “other” Catholic university and they believe that beating Notre Dame will help them shake that. It will help, but if Boston College really wants to get out of Notre Dame’s shadow, it is going to have to have some national success. Going to back-to-back ACC Championships (and likely going back for a third straight) is nice, but failing to win it or have any real clout in terms of the BCS is not helping the Eagles’ case that they can be taken seriously as a great football team. It wasn’t until 2005 that the Eagles were even in the BCS picture. They have been visible every year since, but their best final ranking is 14th. Boston College lacks any real prominence mainly because it hasn’t done anything to garner it. Ever. So in the absence of a true accomplishment, BC football fans revel in having played spoiler to Notre Dame in 1993 with a last-second field goal that ultimately cost the Irish a chance at the National Championship.
That kick in 1993 is the one and only thing that really makes Notre Dame football fans’ blood boil when it comes to Boston College. I still remember watching that game at 11 years old, then going into my room and crying. To say that Notre Dame isn’t irked by having lost to an opponent it considers inferior would obviously be a lie, but the question is this: Does Boston College evoke any emotions that would be any different than those that would be felt towards any other team that beat them six times in a row?
The real reason the Notre Dame-Boston College matchup means so much to the Irish is because EVERY game means so much to the Irish, especially years like this year where they still have an outside shot at a BCS berth. By being an independent, every game counts. To be realistic, even if Boston College loses the game this Saturday, they still have an outside shot at the BCS because they have the benefit of playing in one of the Big 6 conferences. They lose to Notre Dame and they still have a share of the lead in the ACC Atlantic and a weak schedule the rest of the way, giving them a legitimate shot at playing in the ACC championship. They win the championship game, however unlikely that may be, and they’re in. Notre Dame has no such luxury. Every game is a must-win, not only for pride. Their postseason fate depends on it. So sure, in that respect, Notre Dame may hold a grudge knowing that Boston College has played a hand in depriving it of a better bowl game in each of the last six seasons the two teams have played each other.
This isn’t to take anything away from the series. With these two schools being the premier Catholic football programs and educational institutions in the country, it’s only fitting that they should play annually and I hope the two sides can reach an agreement to extend the series beyond 2011. A game like this always should have a place in college football. And you cannot dismiss how entertaining this series has been. This will be the 10th matchup between these two squads since the formation of the BCS and in the previous nine, six have been decided by a touchdown or less and 2008 was the first time a team won by more than two touchdowns since 1997. But the bottom line is these two teams didn't even start playing each other on a regular basis until 1992 when the schools tried to market it and force a rivalry because of the two schools' religious affiliation. If it was really a big deal for these teams to play each other because they're the best Catholic football teams, why have these two teams, both of which had football programs since the 1800's, only started playing less than two decades ago? Let's not forget that Boston College was an independent until 1991 when it joined the Big East, so there was schedule flexibility for both schools.
As for this week’s game, it is a battle of the unknowns. Fans of both teams are sitting back and wondering, “Just how good are we?”
Boston College sits at 5-2 on the season, which includes an impressive 5-0 mark at home. But that also means they are 0-2 on the road in and in front of crowds larger than 50,000, both of which come into play in the game in South Bend. The five wins, and all of their statistics, are skewed somewhat by playing the likes of Northeastern, which still has yet to win an FCS game, and Kent State, ranked somewhere around 100th by most ranking systems. That said, the Eagles did to those teams what you’d expect to do to teams of that stature. Outside of those games, the Eagles are 3-2. The loss to Clemson was ugly with only 54 yards of total offense and was the reason Justin Tuggle lost his starting job the Dave Shinskie. Shinskie has had his ups and downs, which are to be expected, regardless of how old you are as a freshman. He’s shown the ability to exploit weak defenses (see all three wins: Wake Forest, Florida State, and NC State). Fortunately for Boston College fans, the Irish have an extremely weak pass defense.
Montel Harris has show flashes as a sophomore, including setting school records for rushing yards in a game and touchdowns in a game against NC State. But if there’s one thing that has improved on the Notre Dame defense, it’s the front seven. Anytime you have a true freshman linebacker as one of your biggest playmakers, you have to worry, but the Irish have definitely gotten better, which was evident in three-straight goal-line stands against Washington and holding USC’s Joe McKnight at bay for most of the day last Saturday. The key to defending Harris is to actually wrap him up. If you look at tape from both the NC State game and the Florida State game -his two biggest of the season - teams thought that by simply lowering a shoulder into Harris, you could get him down. Not the case. He may not be the biggest guy, but he can run big and if you don’t wrap him up, he’s got speed to burn in the open field.
Anyone who thought that Boston College’s defense was just going to completely implode with the losses of B.J. Raji, Ron Brace and Mark Herzlich (who it’s great to hear is doing so well, by the way), had to be fruit loops. With defensive coordinator Frank Spaziani taking over, you knew defense was still going to be the focus and as well as they have recruited defensive players over the years, there was no reason to think the Eagles wouldn’t be strong on defense. However, with that said, the Eagles are not the shut down unit they were a year ago. Against the only truly dynamic offense they’ve faced all season in Virginia Tech, the Eagles were lit up for over 400 yards and 48 points. This isn’t to say Notre Dame is at all as good as the Hokies, but the offense compares better than it does to any other offense the Eagles have played.
Notre Dame is 4-2 on the year with each of its last five games coming down to the last minute or overtime. It’s hard to tell exactly where the Irish stand because they conceivably were seconds away from being 6-0, but at the same token, moments away from being 1-5. Wins against Purdue, Michigan State and Washington were way too close considering these teams appeared on paper to be inferior. But on the same note, the Irish took USC, a team that clearly has more talent, to the brink.
For the Irish, the team goes as Jimmy Clausen goes and so far this season, that’s been pretty good. Clausen now has 14 touchdowns, two interceptions and the third-highest quarterback rating in college football. The one knock on Clausen early on was that he didn’t face a Top-40 defense all season. Well, he did against USC and didn’t do half bad. The first half he struggled, partly because of the swarming front four of USC, but once he figured out how to read the defense, Clausen settled in, passing for more yards than the Trojans had let up in a game through the air all season and connecting with Golden Tate on the only two touchdowns USC allowed on the season via the pass.
Tate has done a little bit of everything for the Irish. With maybe the best wide receiver in the country on the sidelines, Charlie Weis has moved Tate all over the field to prevent defenses from being able to key on him. He’s played flanker, split end, slot, running back and has worked as the quarterback out of the Wildcat. He ranks fifth in the nation in receiving and has scored seven total touchdowns. Robby Parris is a question mark in this game. He played a huge role in the USC game as the Trojans double and triple covered Tate all day, but was injured on the Irish’s final drive, which fell four yards short. Parris had his hip, knee and ankle MRI’d and no damage was found, but with the way that leg was bent under him, it wouldn’t be surprising to see his role reduced. Duval Kamara, who has been an outlet for Clausen in the past, but slipped on his route fourth and goal, leading to the incompletion as time expired against USC, will surely see more time. Shaquelle Evans, a big-time recruit from Southern California, whose athleticism Irish fans have heard so much about, but have yet to see, may also factor into the mix.
Kyle Rudolph is the end zone threat for Irish with Michael Floyd out. The sophomore is big, strong and has soft hands. He is one of those hybrid tight end/wide receivers that are springing up all over the nation and he just might be one of the best. The Irish needed to keep him on the line to block when USC was getting constant pressure on Clausen, so if the Eagles can get to Clausen early, they could take away one of his main weapons in the passing game.
Armando Allen is back from injury and while most feel the Irish running game was inconsistent against the Trojans last week, I thought Allen did a great job moving the football. When healthy this season, Allen has shown an ability to hit holes hard, avoid going down after first contact and break open for long runs in the open field. Robert Hughes, on the other hand, has not been as impressive and Weis may want to start shying away from him again. Hughes is a good change of pace for Allen, but he should not be receiving more touches than him.
Defensively, the Irish were supposed to get better with the arrival of defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta, but the Irish have taken a step back. It’s hard to run an aggressive defense when you don’t have the athleticism. Notre Dame is on the right track with recruits like Manti Te’o, but there aren’t enough cogs to make this machine work. Tenuta’s defenses require the secondary to be on an island with its receivers and to this point, the secondary has looked overmatched.
Prediction: Clausen has had success against better defenses and as long as he can keep memories of last year’s implosion from impeding his focus, the offense should be fine. If the Irish grab an early, lead, this could turn into a shootout, as Shinskie will be forced to pass and the Irish defense has not looked up to the task against any passing attack this season. Still, in terms of sheer talent and ability, the edge goes to Notre Dame. Notre Dame 33, Boston College 28
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Patchwork Bruins get it done
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
This was one the Bruins really needed.
It's been a tough week for the Bruins. Chuck Kobasew, who recorded one point in seven games with a minus-two rating was traded. Milan Lucic was placed on injured reserve with a broken finger. Marc Savard landed there two days later with a broken foot.
But the Bruins came through in fine fashion with a 3-2 win tonight. Sure, it came against the Nashville Predators, but look at it this way - if the Bruins had lost to the lowly Predators, how bad would things be?
Still, it was not the most impressive performance ever by a Bruins team. The B's lacked the trademark physicality that made them a force in the league a year ago and especially without Lucic, that mentality may be harder to come by. Therefore, based on current personnel, the Bruins will have to morph into a different kind of team and we saw a bit of that tonight.
Boston won this game largely on the ability to out-skate its opponent, something that has not been said about recent teams that call the TD home. Surprising speed and good puck movement were apparent, but not consistent throughout the game and if the Bruins wish to remain competitive, they have to improve.
Among the stars tonight was the man who I take every opportunity to rip - Tim Thomas. After his terrific season last year, Thomas had seemed to revert back to the Thomas of old, a guy who was always out of position and couldn't control rebounds. But tonight he had the kind of performance the Bruins will need, right down the the last second when he came up with a big save on a shot from the slot that would have tied the game.
How the Bruins react to the loss of two of their leaders remains to be seen, but tonight was a step in the right direction. It sure beats a loss.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
This was one the Bruins really needed.
It's been a tough week for the Bruins. Chuck Kobasew, who recorded one point in seven games with a minus-two rating was traded. Milan Lucic was placed on injured reserve with a broken finger. Marc Savard landed there two days later with a broken foot.
But the Bruins came through in fine fashion with a 3-2 win tonight. Sure, it came against the Nashville Predators, but look at it this way - if the Bruins had lost to the lowly Predators, how bad would things be?
Still, it was not the most impressive performance ever by a Bruins team. The B's lacked the trademark physicality that made them a force in the league a year ago and especially without Lucic, that mentality may be harder to come by. Therefore, based on current personnel, the Bruins will have to morph into a different kind of team and we saw a bit of that tonight.
Boston won this game largely on the ability to out-skate its opponent, something that has not been said about recent teams that call the TD home. Surprising speed and good puck movement were apparent, but not consistent throughout the game and if the Bruins wish to remain competitive, they have to improve.
Among the stars tonight was the man who I take every opportunity to rip - Tim Thomas. After his terrific season last year, Thomas had seemed to revert back to the Thomas of old, a guy who was always out of position and couldn't control rebounds. But tonight he had the kind of performance the Bruins will need, right down the the last second when he came up with a big save on a shot from the slot that would have tied the game.
How the Bruins react to the loss of two of their leaders remains to be seen, but tonight was a step in the right direction. It sure beats a loss.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Kids Are Alright
By Rick Eggleston
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Well, that’s more like it.
Just when you thought Tom Brady had lost his Midas touch throwing the football, along came Sunday’s game with the hapless, hopeless, downright pathetic Tennessee Titans. Ah yes, there’s nothing that a good old-fashioned ass whooping (in a snowstorm no less) on an inferior team can’t fix.
With his record five passing touchdowns in the second quarter, including two in a row to Randy Moss, Brady and the Pats flashed back to 2007 for a few hours on Sunday and it felt good. The 59-0 shelling also provided a certain reassurance that Brady can still throw the football with accuracy, power and purpose. Reports of Brady’s demise have been greatly exaggerated.
The Titans, on the other hand, head into their bye week having reached rock bottom. How virtually the same team from a year ago in which they started the season 10-0 returns to start this season 0-6, isn’t exactly clear. While injuries have been a factor, every team has them and is forced to make due. The Patriots have so far, as evidenced Sunday when Sammy Morris — starting in place of injured starting running back Fred Taylor — left the game with a wrenched knee and saw Laurence Maroney answer the bell. New England’s defense has done the same, battling through early-season injuries.
It may come down to bad karma for the Titans, who are cursed, as one Steelers fan suggested on a newspaper team forum site. “The Curse of Terrible Towel,” wrote Ivan the Terrible of Wallingford, Pa., has gripped the Titans since, “LenDale White and friends stomped on the Terrible Towel last season,” following their 31-14 blowout of the Steelers in Week 16. Turns out that’s the last time the Titans won a game, as they went on to lose their season finale and were bounced in the divisional round of the playoffs by the Ravens. The Steelers, meanwhile, went on to win the Super Bowl.
Scuffling Bruins Shake Things Up
Taking a page from the Patriots’ playbook, the Bruins showed Monday that they aren’t about to accept complacency and half-assed efforts when they sent $2.3 million right winger Chuck Kobasew packing to Minnesota.
As surprising as the move is, so too is the Bruins’ lackluster 3-4-0 start. After NHL schedule makers seemingly gift-wrapped the Bruins what should’ve been a 5-0 start by having them open their season with five straight home games — something that almost never happens these days, let alone to the Bruins, who have virtually started every previous season on the road due to the circus’ annual visit to town — the B’s squandered it by going 2-3.
The main contributor to the B’s slow start has been their lack of effort and intensity on offense, where Kobasew had just one assist through the first seven games. Something — and somebody — had to give, and Kobasew is the wake-up call the Bruins so desperately need. While Kobasew’s teammates were surprised by the move, they understand it’s a business and the business is to win hockey games. Whether Kobasew’s — who netted 21 goals last season — abrupt departure helps or ultimately hurts in that goal, of course, remains to be seen.
Just ask Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas, who was put on notice and the bench by coach Bill Belichick prior to Sunday’s game with Tennessee. While Thomas, a two-time Pro-Bowler, doesn’t appear to be injured nor would Belichick come out and say during his Monday media briefing it was a performance issue with Thomas, trade winds are blowing. Rams running back Steven Jackson would look pretty good in a Patriots throwback.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Well, that’s more like it.
Just when you thought Tom Brady had lost his Midas touch throwing the football, along came Sunday’s game with the hapless, hopeless, downright pathetic Tennessee Titans. Ah yes, there’s nothing that a good old-fashioned ass whooping (in a snowstorm no less) on an inferior team can’t fix.
With his record five passing touchdowns in the second quarter, including two in a row to Randy Moss, Brady and the Pats flashed back to 2007 for a few hours on Sunday and it felt good. The 59-0 shelling also provided a certain reassurance that Brady can still throw the football with accuracy, power and purpose. Reports of Brady’s demise have been greatly exaggerated.
The Titans, on the other hand, head into their bye week having reached rock bottom. How virtually the same team from a year ago in which they started the season 10-0 returns to start this season 0-6, isn’t exactly clear. While injuries have been a factor, every team has them and is forced to make due. The Patriots have so far, as evidenced Sunday when Sammy Morris — starting in place of injured starting running back Fred Taylor — left the game with a wrenched knee and saw Laurence Maroney answer the bell. New England’s defense has done the same, battling through early-season injuries.
It may come down to bad karma for the Titans, who are cursed, as one Steelers fan suggested on a newspaper team forum site. “The Curse of Terrible Towel,” wrote Ivan the Terrible of Wallingford, Pa., has gripped the Titans since, “LenDale White and friends stomped on the Terrible Towel last season,” following their 31-14 blowout of the Steelers in Week 16. Turns out that’s the last time the Titans won a game, as they went on to lose their season finale and were bounced in the divisional round of the playoffs by the Ravens. The Steelers, meanwhile, went on to win the Super Bowl.
Scuffling Bruins Shake Things Up
Taking a page from the Patriots’ playbook, the Bruins showed Monday that they aren’t about to accept complacency and half-assed efforts when they sent $2.3 million right winger Chuck Kobasew packing to Minnesota.
As surprising as the move is, so too is the Bruins’ lackluster 3-4-0 start. After NHL schedule makers seemingly gift-wrapped the Bruins what should’ve been a 5-0 start by having them open their season with five straight home games — something that almost never happens these days, let alone to the Bruins, who have virtually started every previous season on the road due to the circus’ annual visit to town — the B’s squandered it by going 2-3.
The main contributor to the B’s slow start has been their lack of effort and intensity on offense, where Kobasew had just one assist through the first seven games. Something — and somebody — had to give, and Kobasew is the wake-up call the Bruins so desperately need. While Kobasew’s teammates were surprised by the move, they understand it’s a business and the business is to win hockey games. Whether Kobasew’s — who netted 21 goals last season — abrupt departure helps or ultimately hurts in that goal, of course, remains to be seen.
Just ask Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas, who was put on notice and the bench by coach Bill Belichick prior to Sunday’s game with Tennessee. While Thomas, a two-time Pro-Bowler, doesn’t appear to be injured nor would Belichick come out and say during his Monday media briefing it was a performance issue with Thomas, trade winds are blowing. Rams running back Steven Jackson would look pretty good in a Patriots throwback.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Notre Dame's postseason aspirations in serious peril.
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The USC game on Saturday was more than a rivalry game. It was more than a measuring stick for how far the Irish had come. It was the gateway to the postseason. And now that door is closing. One more loss and it will be slamming shut.
The Irish went into this season with questions upon questions and heading into Saturday's game, not many had been answered. The Irish drubbed Nevada, but its next four games all came down to the last minute or overtime. They were 11 seconds from being 5-0 and about at the same token, they were about one minute from being 1-4.
Notre Dame took to their home field and defended it honorably against the Trojans. They could have folded and called it a day when they fell behind, 34-14, but they didn't give up, cutting a 20-point deficit to seven and within four yards of sending the game to overtime.
But near wins count for nothing and the loss just adds to the questions surrounding Notre Dame.
Just how good is this team?
By most accounts, it seems pretty clear that pollsters see Notre Dame as a good team, but not great. The AP poll ranks the Irish 26th. The Harris Poll has them at 28th, while the USA Today rankings put them 30th. The computers don't seem to be quite sure what to think of the Irish, as different formulas rank them anywhere from 17th to 31st. Combine the Harris and USA Today polls with the computers and BCS rankings have Notre Dame at 31st.
Bottom line, if the Irish want to even have a shot at the BCS, they need to win out. And with the remaining schedule, it's easier said than done.
Boston College, who has won six straight against the Irish and four of the last five games in South Bend. The Eagles have done well victimizing weak defenses, especially against the run, and Notre Dame qualifies. The difference between this matchup an the Eagles' previous wins is their opponents have not exactly had powerhouse offenses. Notre Dame does.
Washington State is the only real cupcake on this season's schedule for the Irish and doesn't figure to be a huge challenge.
But that is followed by the toughest matchup remaining on paper and what could be the Irish's biggest bargaining chip. Pitt is currently ranked 20th in the BCS rankings with two winnable games against South Florida and Syracuse coming up that could improve its stock. If the Irish comes in at 6-2 and beats the Panthers, they could put themselves into a decent position heading into the final two games of the season. But again, a strong running attack could pose some serious problems for Notre Dame.
Connecticut suffered a major tragedy for its program with Jasper Howard getting stabbed to death on campus on Saturday, just hours after getting the game ball. How the team carries on the rest of the season remains to be seen, but from what the coach has shown so far in terms of being a rock for his players, the Huskies should be just fine in terms of on-field play, but are beatable.
Stanford is another game that the Irish could easily cough up, but also looks beatable.
Lose another game and they are done. Win out and it could get interesting. The BCS championship chances are long gone, not that they were really ever there to begin with, but heading into the USC game, there was still a sense of confidence that the BCS was within reach. But can the Irish really come off a heartbreaking loss and win six straight? The more realistic scenario may be the Gator Bowl.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The USC game on Saturday was more than a rivalry game. It was more than a measuring stick for how far the Irish had come. It was the gateway to the postseason. And now that door is closing. One more loss and it will be slamming shut.
The Irish went into this season with questions upon questions and heading into Saturday's game, not many had been answered. The Irish drubbed Nevada, but its next four games all came down to the last minute or overtime. They were 11 seconds from being 5-0 and about at the same token, they were about one minute from being 1-4.
Notre Dame took to their home field and defended it honorably against the Trojans. They could have folded and called it a day when they fell behind, 34-14, but they didn't give up, cutting a 20-point deficit to seven and within four yards of sending the game to overtime.
But near wins count for nothing and the loss just adds to the questions surrounding Notre Dame.
Just how good is this team?
By most accounts, it seems pretty clear that pollsters see Notre Dame as a good team, but not great. The AP poll ranks the Irish 26th. The Harris Poll has them at 28th, while the USA Today rankings put them 30th. The computers don't seem to be quite sure what to think of the Irish, as different formulas rank them anywhere from 17th to 31st. Combine the Harris and USA Today polls with the computers and BCS rankings have Notre Dame at 31st.
Bottom line, if the Irish want to even have a shot at the BCS, they need to win out. And with the remaining schedule, it's easier said than done.
Boston College, who has won six straight against the Irish and four of the last five games in South Bend. The Eagles have done well victimizing weak defenses, especially against the run, and Notre Dame qualifies. The difference between this matchup an the Eagles' previous wins is their opponents have not exactly had powerhouse offenses. Notre Dame does.
Washington State is the only real cupcake on this season's schedule for the Irish and doesn't figure to be a huge challenge.
But that is followed by the toughest matchup remaining on paper and what could be the Irish's biggest bargaining chip. Pitt is currently ranked 20th in the BCS rankings with two winnable games against South Florida and Syracuse coming up that could improve its stock. If the Irish comes in at 6-2 and beats the Panthers, they could put themselves into a decent position heading into the final two games of the season. But again, a strong running attack could pose some serious problems for Notre Dame.
Connecticut suffered a major tragedy for its program with Jasper Howard getting stabbed to death on campus on Saturday, just hours after getting the game ball. How the team carries on the rest of the season remains to be seen, but from what the coach has shown so far in terms of being a rock for his players, the Huskies should be just fine in terms of on-field play, but are beatable.
Stanford is another game that the Irish could easily cough up, but also looks beatable.
Lose another game and they are done. Win out and it could get interesting. The BCS championship chances are long gone, not that they were really ever there to begin with, but heading into the USC game, there was still a sense of confidence that the BCS was within reach. But can the Irish really come off a heartbreaking loss and win six straight? The more realistic scenario may be the Gator Bowl.
Saints have been really impressive, but don't crown them yet
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The New Orleans Saints appear to be one of the elite teams in the NFL -- at least right now.
Everyone has known about the Saints' high-powered offense for years with Drew Brees at the helm, but now they have a good defense -- yes, I said good -- with new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams calling the shots. This attacking and ball-hawking defense is especially good when they can pin their ears back and rush the passer since the Saints offense has been building big leads.
That's a great recipe for success, too.
If you were still questioning how good the Saints really were, bet you're believing now since they kicked the heck out of the New York Giants, 48-27, and it wasn't even that close.
The Giants were torched by Brees (369 yards, 4 TDs) and the defense limited Eli Manning to only 14-of-31 passing for 178 yards with one TD and one INT. Plus that vaunted Giants running game was kept in check. Brandon Jacobs had 33 yards and Ahmad Bradshaw had 48.
So that should show you right there that the Saints are legit contenders in the NFC.
Don't go crowning them yet, but they are a complete team on offense (Brees, running backs Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell, Reggie Bush, and WRs Marquis Colston, Lance Moore and Robert Meachem, and TE Jeremy Shockey, etc.), defense (Darren Sharper, Roman Harper, Tracy Porter, Jonathan Vilma and Jabari Greer) and special teams (kicker John Carney, punter Thomas Morstead, punt returner Reggie Bush and kick returner Courtney Roby).
Head coach Sean Payton has a very good team, but it's way too early to say they're destine for the Super Bowl.
But if they stay healthy, who knows what this team can do? No doubt they're talented enough to make the playoffs and unlike years past, the defense is holding up their end of the bargain and is no longer a crutch.
In any case, the Saints have been impressive and extremely fun to watch.
What we learned this week in college football: Week 7
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
A nice week in college football, featuring some close games pulled out by favorites, along with a few upsets, adding intrigue to the release of the first BCS rankings of the season. But with all the excitement, there's one thing we re-learned this weekend:
Football is just a game
We're reminded that in the great scheme of things football doesn't mean all that much after UConn's Jasper Howard was stabbed to death outside an on-campus dance Saturday night. The stabbing, which came hours after Howard had helped lead the Huskies to a win with 11 tackles and a big forced fumble and recovery, happened after someone pulled a fire alarm. An altercation occurred outside between two groups of people and Howard and another student were stabbed. If this story wasn't sad enough, Howard was going to be a father.
The BCS is still a lightning rod for controversy
It's incredibly clear that Alabama is the best team in college football at this point. Clear to everything except the BCS. Florida hangs at No. 1, followed by Bama, Texas and Boise State. The real problem with the BCS is it doesn't take into serious account the level of competition teams are playing. If that were the case, the 7-0 Crimson Tide, who has knocked off three ranked teams would be a clear-cut number one and Boise State would be nowhere near the top 5. Florida has played one ranked team and the rest of their FBS schedule had a combined 13-11 record. They also beat up on a 2-4 Charleston Southern team.
The Heisman is looking more like Tebow
Colt McCoy could have really boosted his stock with a big game against Oklahoma, but failed to do so. Jimmy Clausen had a more than respectable game, passing for more yards than any other quarterback has against USC and scoring the first two passing touchdowns against them all season, but he needed to complete one of his three passes on the four-yard line at the end of the game. Tim Tebow was Tim Tebow, completing 64 percent of his passes for 255 yards and a touchdown, while also leading the Gators in rushing yards. Alabama's Mark Ingram is the only non-quarterback gaining real consideration at this point and the last time someone besides a quarterback was Reggie Bush, who had over 2,100 total yards and 18 touchdowns in 2o05. Ingram is on pace for just under 1,900 total yards and 19 scores.
Matt Barkley is the real deal
Sure, Notre Dame's defense isn't the strongest by a long shot, but Matt Barkley showed the poise of an upperclassmen in one of the toughest places to be a visiting team in college football. When he had protection, he stood back there, read the coverage and fired the ball all over the field. When the Irish finally got pressure on him, he hit his outlets, who turned the short passes into big gains. All told, Barkley had 380 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
Purdue is a team that gets up for the big game
The Boildermakers may have a putrid 2-5 record, but they have played three of the better programs in college football hard this season. It started against Oregon, where they lost a 38-36, scoring a touchdown with just over a minute remaining, but failed to convert the two-point conversion. Later, they gave up a last-minute touchdown to Notre Dame in a 24-21 loss. But they finally came through with a win in a big game, embarrassing Ohio State, 26-18.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
A nice week in college football, featuring some close games pulled out by favorites, along with a few upsets, adding intrigue to the release of the first BCS rankings of the season. But with all the excitement, there's one thing we re-learned this weekend:
Football is just a game
We're reminded that in the great scheme of things football doesn't mean all that much after UConn's Jasper Howard was stabbed to death outside an on-campus dance Saturday night. The stabbing, which came hours after Howard had helped lead the Huskies to a win with 11 tackles and a big forced fumble and recovery, happened after someone pulled a fire alarm. An altercation occurred outside between two groups of people and Howard and another student were stabbed. If this story wasn't sad enough, Howard was going to be a father.
The BCS is still a lightning rod for controversy
It's incredibly clear that Alabama is the best team in college football at this point. Clear to everything except the BCS. Florida hangs at No. 1, followed by Bama, Texas and Boise State. The real problem with the BCS is it doesn't take into serious account the level of competition teams are playing. If that were the case, the 7-0 Crimson Tide, who has knocked off three ranked teams would be a clear-cut number one and Boise State would be nowhere near the top 5. Florida has played one ranked team and the rest of their FBS schedule had a combined 13-11 record. They also beat up on a 2-4 Charleston Southern team.
The Heisman is looking more like Tebow
Colt McCoy could have really boosted his stock with a big game against Oklahoma, but failed to do so. Jimmy Clausen had a more than respectable game, passing for more yards than any other quarterback has against USC and scoring the first two passing touchdowns against them all season, but he needed to complete one of his three passes on the four-yard line at the end of the game. Tim Tebow was Tim Tebow, completing 64 percent of his passes for 255 yards and a touchdown, while also leading the Gators in rushing yards. Alabama's Mark Ingram is the only non-quarterback gaining real consideration at this point and the last time someone besides a quarterback was Reggie Bush, who had over 2,100 total yards and 18 touchdowns in 2o05. Ingram is on pace for just under 1,900 total yards and 19 scores.
Matt Barkley is the real deal
Sure, Notre Dame's defense isn't the strongest by a long shot, but Matt Barkley showed the poise of an upperclassmen in one of the toughest places to be a visiting team in college football. When he had protection, he stood back there, read the coverage and fired the ball all over the field. When the Irish finally got pressure on him, he hit his outlets, who turned the short passes into big gains. All told, Barkley had 380 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
Purdue is a team that gets up for the big game
The Boildermakers may have a putrid 2-5 record, but they have played three of the better programs in college football hard this season. It started against Oregon, where they lost a 38-36, scoring a touchdown with just over a minute remaining, but failed to convert the two-point conversion. Later, they gave up a last-minute touchdown to Notre Dame in a 24-21 loss. But they finally came through with a win in a big game, embarrassing Ohio State, 26-18.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Week 6 Recap: Brady Delivers
By Dan Shouse Fanatic Sports Staff
Another week is in the books for the NFL, and there are no doubt many happy New England Patriots fans.
Patriots 59 (4-2) Titans (0-6)
It looked and felt like Christmas with all the snow at Gillette Stadium, but it was Tom Brady and company that delivered a 59 point gift in a total destruction of the Tennessee Titans. Brady threw for 6TDs, five in the second quarter alone, in leading the Pats to the win. Randy Moss found the end zone three times, and even Laurence Maroney contributed. The Pats could have put up 70 points if they wanted.
Texans 28 (3-3) Bengals 17 (4-2)
Matt Schaub threw for just under 400 yards and added 4TD passes in an impressive win at Cincinnati. Luck finally ran out for the Bengals who had picked up 3 straight wins, all in the final seconds, heading into Sunday's game against Houston.
Packers 26 (3-2) Lions 0 (1-5)
Aaron Rodgers passed for over 350 yards and a pair of scores in an easy win at home against Detroit. The Pack left a lot of points on the board, as Mason Crosby kicked 4 field goals in the win. The Lions had next to nothing on offense, having under 150 total yard for the entire game.
Vikings 33 (6-0) Ravens 31 (3-3)
Luck was on Bret Favre's and the Vikings side against the Ravens, as Baltimore kicker Steven Hauschka missed a 44 yard field goal on the final play to keep the Vikings perfect on the year. The Ravens, who started the year at 3-0, are now struggling, having lost 3 straight.
Saints 49 (5-0) Giants 27 (5-1)
It is official - the New Orleans Saints are for real. Behind 369 yards and 4 TDs from Drew Brees, the Saints put on a show with a win at home against the Giants. This figured to be the biggest challenge of the season for the Saints, as the Giants had one of the leagues toughest defenses. Instead the Saints made the Giants defense look ordinary, posting almost 500 yards of total offense. The Saints have not even been challenge this season, winning by an average of 14 points each week.
Steelers 27 (4-2) Browns 14 (1-5)
Both teams played a sloppy game, combining for 8 turnovers, but in the end the Steelers made enough plays to get the win. Ben Roethlisberger had over 400 yards and 2TDs in the win. Derek Anderson struggled once again, completing only 9 of 24 passes for 122 yards. How long until Brady Quinn is starting again?
Panthers 28 (2-3) Buccaneers 21 (0-7)
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for over 250 yards rushing and two scores to lead Carolina to its second straight win. The Panthers were able to win despite a dismal showing be Jake Delhomme, who threw for only 65 yards and also threw pair of picks.
Chiefs 14 (1-5) Redskins 6 (2-4)
Once again a winless team picked up its first win against the Redskins. Neither Jason Campbell or Todd Collins could get the offensively challenge Redskins into the end zone. I wonder what Jim Zorn will be doing next weekend? It is time for his pink slip. The season is already over, might as well make the move now.
Jaguars 23 (3-3) Rams 20 (0-6)
Despite dominating in the stat book, the Jacksonville Jaguars need overtime to get past the Rams. Maurice Jones-Drew went over 100 yards and found the end zone 3 times, and David Garrard threw for over 300 yards, but three turnovers helped keep the Rams in the game before a 36 yard Josh Scobee kick won it in overtime for the Jags.
Cardinal 27 (3-2) Seahawks 3 (2-4)
The Cardinals jumped out to a 14-0 lead early in the 1st quarter and never looked back, getting an easy road win against Seattle. One week after putting up 41 points against Jacksonville, the Seahawks managed only 3 points and 128 total yards against the Cardinals.
Raiders 13 (2-4) Eagles 9 (3-2)
I can't believe I am writing this, but the Raiders looked good, at least on defense, in a home win against a stunned Eagles team. JeMarcus Russel hit Zach Miller with an 86 yard TD, and then the Raider defense took over from there, shutting down an Eagle offense that had scored over 30 points each of the last two weeks.
Bills 16 (2-4) Jets 13 (3-3)
Maybe it's time Mark Sanchez drops the nickname "Sanchize." Sanchez's 5 ints helped keep Buffalo in the game, and then Rian Lindell kicked a 47 yard field goal to win it in overtime, as the Bills shocked the Jets at Giants Stadium. The Jets are now finally starting to play like the Jets of old, having dropped three straight.
Falcons 21 (4-1) Bears 14 (3-2)
It took a last second defensive stand, but the Atlanta Falcons were able to keep a late Bears drive from getting into the end zone, preserving the win at the Georgia Dome. The offense also contributed, as Matt Ryan hit Tony Gonzalez for a 10 yard touchdown with only 4 seconds left in the 2nd quarter, giving the Falcons a 14-7 lead at halftime. Despite being held in check, Michael Turner added the winning score on a five yard run with just over 3 minutes left in the game.
Another week is in the books for the NFL, and there are no doubt many happy New England Patriots fans.
Patriots 59 (4-2) Titans (0-6)
It looked and felt like Christmas with all the snow at Gillette Stadium, but it was Tom Brady and company that delivered a 59 point gift in a total destruction of the Tennessee Titans. Brady threw for 6TDs, five in the second quarter alone, in leading the Pats to the win. Randy Moss found the end zone three times, and even Laurence Maroney contributed. The Pats could have put up 70 points if they wanted.
Texans 28 (3-3) Bengals 17 (4-2)
Matt Schaub threw for just under 400 yards and added 4TD passes in an impressive win at Cincinnati. Luck finally ran out for the Bengals who had picked up 3 straight wins, all in the final seconds, heading into Sunday's game against Houston.
Packers 26 (3-2) Lions 0 (1-5)
Aaron Rodgers passed for over 350 yards and a pair of scores in an easy win at home against Detroit. The Pack left a lot of points on the board, as Mason Crosby kicked 4 field goals in the win. The Lions had next to nothing on offense, having under 150 total yard for the entire game.
Vikings 33 (6-0) Ravens 31 (3-3)
Luck was on Bret Favre's and the Vikings side against the Ravens, as Baltimore kicker Steven Hauschka missed a 44 yard field goal on the final play to keep the Vikings perfect on the year. The Ravens, who started the year at 3-0, are now struggling, having lost 3 straight.
Saints 49 (5-0) Giants 27 (5-1)
It is official - the New Orleans Saints are for real. Behind 369 yards and 4 TDs from Drew Brees, the Saints put on a show with a win at home against the Giants. This figured to be the biggest challenge of the season for the Saints, as the Giants had one of the leagues toughest defenses. Instead the Saints made the Giants defense look ordinary, posting almost 500 yards of total offense. The Saints have not even been challenge this season, winning by an average of 14 points each week.
Steelers 27 (4-2) Browns 14 (1-5)
Both teams played a sloppy game, combining for 8 turnovers, but in the end the Steelers made enough plays to get the win. Ben Roethlisberger had over 400 yards and 2TDs in the win. Derek Anderson struggled once again, completing only 9 of 24 passes for 122 yards. How long until Brady Quinn is starting again?
Panthers 28 (2-3) Buccaneers 21 (0-7)
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for over 250 yards rushing and two scores to lead Carolina to its second straight win. The Panthers were able to win despite a dismal showing be Jake Delhomme, who threw for only 65 yards and also threw pair of picks.
Chiefs 14 (1-5) Redskins 6 (2-4)
Once again a winless team picked up its first win against the Redskins. Neither Jason Campbell or Todd Collins could get the offensively challenge Redskins into the end zone. I wonder what Jim Zorn will be doing next weekend? It is time for his pink slip. The season is already over, might as well make the move now.
Jaguars 23 (3-3) Rams 20 (0-6)
Despite dominating in the stat book, the Jacksonville Jaguars need overtime to get past the Rams. Maurice Jones-Drew went over 100 yards and found the end zone 3 times, and David Garrard threw for over 300 yards, but three turnovers helped keep the Rams in the game before a 36 yard Josh Scobee kick won it in overtime for the Jags.
Cardinal 27 (3-2) Seahawks 3 (2-4)
The Cardinals jumped out to a 14-0 lead early in the 1st quarter and never looked back, getting an easy road win against Seattle. One week after putting up 41 points against Jacksonville, the Seahawks managed only 3 points and 128 total yards against the Cardinals.
Raiders 13 (2-4) Eagles 9 (3-2)
I can't believe I am writing this, but the Raiders looked good, at least on defense, in a home win against a stunned Eagles team. JeMarcus Russel hit Zach Miller with an 86 yard TD, and then the Raider defense took over from there, shutting down an Eagle offense that had scored over 30 points each of the last two weeks.
Bills 16 (2-4) Jets 13 (3-3)
Maybe it's time Mark Sanchez drops the nickname "Sanchize." Sanchez's 5 ints helped keep Buffalo in the game, and then Rian Lindell kicked a 47 yard field goal to win it in overtime, as the Bills shocked the Jets at Giants Stadium. The Jets are now finally starting to play like the Jets of old, having dropped three straight.
Falcons 21 (4-1) Bears 14 (3-2)
It took a last second defensive stand, but the Atlanta Falcons were able to keep a late Bears drive from getting into the end zone, preserving the win at the Georgia Dome. The offense also contributed, as Matt Ryan hit Tony Gonzalez for a 10 yard touchdown with only 4 seconds left in the 2nd quarter, giving the Falcons a 14-7 lead at halftime. Despite being held in check, Michael Turner added the winning score on a five yard run with just over 3 minutes left in the game.
Monday Night Football: Can Denver Continue to Surprise?
By Dan Shouse
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Prior to the start of the 2009 NFL season, most experts had the San Diego Chargers cruising to the division title in a relatively week AFC West. Many of the same experts thought that five weeks into the season, the Denver Broncos would be fighting to stay alive in the race for a spot in the post season.
Indeed that is the case in this weeks match up on Monday night, but the roles have been reversed. Instead it is the Broncos, the undefeated Broncos I might add, who appear to be ready to run away with the division, and the Chargers (2-2) who are fighting to keep their season alive.
Even more surprising than the fact that the Broncos are atop the AFC West, is how they are doing it. Rookie coach Josh McDaniels came to Denver with the reputation of being an offensive guru, but it has been the Broncos defense that has lead the way to a perfect start. No team has scored more than 17 points against the Denver defense this season. After struggling for most of the 2008 season, the Denver defense is now one of the the league's best.
The offense has been solid as well. Aside from Brandon Marshall, the offense does not really have a superstar, but that has not stopped this unit from contributing to the 5-0 start. Kyle Orton has surprised, throwing for over 1200 yards and 7TDs against only one pick so far this season. Plus the one pick Orton has thrown was to Randy Moss on a last second heave just before half time against the Patriots. Take that away, and Orton has not made a mistake yet this season.
A lot of credit mush also go to McDaniels. With the Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall soap operas during the off season, the first year coach appeared to be on the verge of losing his team before the season even started. Winning cures all however, and McDaniels has his players faith again, thanks to the perfect start.
Skeptics (including myself earlier this season) point to Denver's soft schedule as the key to their success, but last week's win against the Pats showed that the Broncos can compete all season. The schedule gets tougher from here, as after San Diego, the Broncos face off against Baltimore and Pittsburgh, two powers in the AFC. The Broncos will certainly now have more chances to prove that they are for real.
San Diego, on the other hand, has been a surprise for the wrong reason. Expected to be a contender in the AFC, the Chargers have struggled in the early part of the season, especially on defense. The Chargers have problems stopping the run, as opponents have averaged 151 yards on the ground against them . While Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson have formed a potent combination, they have had little help from the running game behind LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles. Plus when you are always playing from behind, thanks to a suspect defense, it is that much tougher to get a running game going.
To make matters worse for the Chargers, upper management expressed their frustration through the media, saying that the Chargers slow start was unacceptable. Things may be starting to get desperate in San Diego.
After praising Denver, and ripping San Diego, the likely thought is that I would be picking the Broncos in a rout, but there is one image that bugs me about Denver. After last week game against the Patriots, McDaniels and company were celebrating like they had just won the Super Bowl. Are the Broncos poised for a let down after last weeks big win? Are they beginning to get a little overconfident? Are they maybe losing their focus a bit? Plus add in a San Diego team that is desperate for a win, angry after management ripped them publicly, and coming off a bye week, the Broncos now look primed to be upset.
Prediction: Chargers 23 Broncos 20
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Prior to the start of the 2009 NFL season, most experts had the San Diego Chargers cruising to the division title in a relatively week AFC West. Many of the same experts thought that five weeks into the season, the Denver Broncos would be fighting to stay alive in the race for a spot in the post season.
Indeed that is the case in this weeks match up on Monday night, but the roles have been reversed. Instead it is the Broncos, the undefeated Broncos I might add, who appear to be ready to run away with the division, and the Chargers (2-2) who are fighting to keep their season alive.
Even more surprising than the fact that the Broncos are atop the AFC West, is how they are doing it. Rookie coach Josh McDaniels came to Denver with the reputation of being an offensive guru, but it has been the Broncos defense that has lead the way to a perfect start. No team has scored more than 17 points against the Denver defense this season. After struggling for most of the 2008 season, the Denver defense is now one of the the league's best.
The offense has been solid as well. Aside from Brandon Marshall, the offense does not really have a superstar, but that has not stopped this unit from contributing to the 5-0 start. Kyle Orton has surprised, throwing for over 1200 yards and 7TDs against only one pick so far this season. Plus the one pick Orton has thrown was to Randy Moss on a last second heave just before half time against the Patriots. Take that away, and Orton has not made a mistake yet this season.
A lot of credit mush also go to McDaniels. With the Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall soap operas during the off season, the first year coach appeared to be on the verge of losing his team before the season even started. Winning cures all however, and McDaniels has his players faith again, thanks to the perfect start.
Skeptics (including myself earlier this season) point to Denver's soft schedule as the key to their success, but last week's win against the Pats showed that the Broncos can compete all season. The schedule gets tougher from here, as after San Diego, the Broncos face off against Baltimore and Pittsburgh, two powers in the AFC. The Broncos will certainly now have more chances to prove that they are for real.
San Diego, on the other hand, has been a surprise for the wrong reason. Expected to be a contender in the AFC, the Chargers have struggled in the early part of the season, especially on defense. The Chargers have problems stopping the run, as opponents have averaged 151 yards on the ground against them . While Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson have formed a potent combination, they have had little help from the running game behind LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles. Plus when you are always playing from behind, thanks to a suspect defense, it is that much tougher to get a running game going.
To make matters worse for the Chargers, upper management expressed their frustration through the media, saying that the Chargers slow start was unacceptable. Things may be starting to get desperate in San Diego.
After praising Denver, and ripping San Diego, the likely thought is that I would be picking the Broncos in a rout, but there is one image that bugs me about Denver. After last week game against the Patriots, McDaniels and company were celebrating like they had just won the Super Bowl. Are the Broncos poised for a let down after last weeks big win? Are they beginning to get a little overconfident? Are they maybe losing their focus a bit? Plus add in a San Diego team that is desperate for a win, angry after management ripped them publicly, and coming off a bye week, the Broncos now look primed to be upset.
Prediction: Chargers 23 Broncos 20
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