Tonight was our official first show of 2008. Even though our usual co-hosts weren’t around to debate an assortment of topics, it went reasonably well.

Here was what was covered:

1.A preview of this weekend’s NFL first round match-ups with Hard Hitting analysis and predictions for each game. Plus extended breakdown of Giants-Bucs. What needs to happen for Big Blue to come out of Tampa with their first playoff win under Tom Coughlin?

2.The Knicks’ latest loss at defending champion San Antonio. Does anyone really care about the NBA’s laughingstock?!?!?!?!?!?! What about Lord Isiah’s “legacy?”

3.The Nets’ recent turnaround continued. How great is J Kidd?

4.More on the Mets’ very disappointing offseason as the D-Backs stacked up getting ace Dan Haren from Oakland to team up with 2006 Cy Young winner Brandon Webb.

5.Martin Brodeur and the Devils continue to win hockey games despite being written off by naysayers. How special is the three-time Stanley Cup champion? This while the “new and improved” Rangers continue to make fans scratch their heads.

6.Derek reviews the very successful NHL Outdoor Winter Classic played on New Year’s Day at Ralph Wilson Stadium. How special was it as Sidney Crosby electrified 71,000 plus with a signature moment. We’re briefly joined by John Giagnorio and then good buddy  

7.Brian Sanborn calls in to give his review. Are any puck fans criticizing this special game? Sadly, a few did for silly reasons. Would a game like this work in NYC at say Giants Stadium? Should the league make this an annual hockey tradition every Jan.1? Find out what we think!

All this plus I unveil co-hosts Rob Davis, JPG, Jeff Bashlor and Nate Sousa’s predictions for this weekend’s big games.

To tune into other recent show archives from last year, please check it out below:

MORE HARD HITS

Please be sure to tune in or join us for our next show sometime later this week.