Today’s comes from befuddled Eagles veteran QB Donovan McNabb after his team finished in a 13-13 tie with the lowly Bengals losing ground in the NFC playoff race falling to 5-4-1. Somehow, the 10-year veteran wasn’t aware that ties do exist during NFL regular season if neither team scores in the 15 extra minutes which normally decide matters:
“I didn’t know that. I’ve never been part of a tie. I never even knew it was in the rule book. I was looking forward to getting the opportunity to get out there and try to drive to win the game. But unfortunately with the rules, we settled with a tie. I guess we’re aware if it now.“
This is as bizarre as it gets. McNabb’s certainly been around the league long enough to know that ties exist in the rulebook. Instead, his porous play tossing three picks and losing a fumble helped contribute to the first NFL tie in six years when the Michael Vick led Falcons and Tommy Maddox Steelers hooked up in a much more exciting 34-34 classic nearly six years to the day with that one coming on Nov.12, 2002. Wonder what exactly that means for 2014?!?!?!?!?!
Though Philadelphia rallied from a 13-3 deficit with a McNabb four-year hookup with tight end L.J. Smith in the third quarter and a David Akers 27-yard field goal with 5:18 left in regulation, it wasn’t enough to beat a team that entered with only one win in its first nine weeks of play.
Just inexcusable for a team which badly needed the game to rebound from last week’s home defeat at the hands of the Giants. Especially with them battling the Redskins and now the Cowboys who saved their season by hanging on for a hard fought 14-10 road win in the nation’s capital last night. Dallas and Washington are now tied at 6-4 a half game ahead of the Eagles who had they won would’ve been in a three-way tie instead of sitting in last in the NFC East.
The Eagles have six weeks left to try to atone with it promising not to get much easier with a road visit to Baltimore, who should be fuming after giving up a season high 207 rushing yards to the three-headed monster Giant attack in a 30-10 loss Sunday.
In fact, Andy Reid’s embattled club doesn’t have any easy games left with Arizona, at the Giants, the Browns, at the Redskins and a potential wildcard match-up versus the ‘Boys in late December.
Sadly, the Eagles were fortunate to even come out with the tie as Bengals’ normally reliable kicker Shayne Graham missed from 47 yards with seven seconds to spare ensuring the tie. It was Graham’s first miss between 40 and 49 yards all season. He had been six for his previous six. So naturally, he came away disappointed as well:
“We didn’t win. We didn’t lose, either. But sometimes, tying stings a little more.”
Let’s put it this way. Tying sucks! Especially in the NFL. With the NHL doing away with ties by opting for the shootout to decide extra points, it’s pro football which can still have the rare tie. But it’s so rare that it’s not worth examining changing rules so there’s a winner. And let’s not forget that it takes a heck of a lot of poor execution to even reach that point when games require overtime.
That doesn’t say much for the Eagles, who in bizarre fashion a week after their coach was taken to task for running two straight with short yardage using Brian Westbrook to no avail with Big Blue’s stingy run D snuffing it out opted to pass on all 18 third down situations including three third-and-one’s. Not surprisingly, they converted just 3-of-18 summarizing a day of futility in which the two teams combined to go 7-for-38 putting the definition in yuck.
Utterly ridiculous and proof that the supersensitive Reid can’t coach to save his life in big game situations. How do you have McNabb throw the ball 58 times? We realize the Eagles don’t have a conventional ground game but that kinda one-dimensional strategy just won’t work. They become way too predictable.
They might’ve celebrated the Phillies second world championship and the city’s first pro sports franchise’s big win in 25 years since Doctor J’s 1983 76ers won the NBA Title but we’re a few weeks removed now and the Philly phanatic has every right to rip on the Eagles today.
Their team was expected to contend in the NFC but now is a very big question mark to even qualify for January thanks to the continued underachieving and exasperating playcalling.
It’s been a while since I had time to update here. Just recovered from a sinus infection and had been more preoccupied with the hockey season covering it over at my other site Battle of NY. Over there, it’s myself taking the Rangers and the league with Hasan covering the Devils and other hockey stuff as well. We do have other contributors but lately, they’ve been busy with work. So it’s become basically me and Hasan giving our views on the locals (Rangers, Devils, Islanders) as well as what’s going on around the NHL.
In any event, there are many happenings the last week or so. So let’s get to them in no short order:
-The Giants have proven that they’re still a team to be reckoned with this season. At 8-1 after getting past the Eagles by five in Philly thanks to a balanced run attack led by Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward with second-year speedster Ahmad Bradshaw chipping in late as the Giant offensive line dominated up front while Eli Manning was efficient not making any mistakes following an early deflected interception which the Eagles cashed for a score. Even in a game in which the D couldn’t get any pressure on Donovan McNabb, they still did an admirable job shutting down all-purpose back Brian Westbrook including the key tackles on second, third and fourth down when Andy Reid foolishly ran it the last two downs with short yardage when his team had a chance to steal it.
Kudos must also go out to Manning who sold Tom Coughlin on a key challenge in which they reversed what looked initially like a forward pass. Instead, the QB knew his back foot hadn’t crossed the line of scrimmage when he threw completing a key first down pass on third down to tight end Kevin Boss, who was a big target coming down with six receptions, a TD and 69 yards.
Big Blue also caught a big break when officials couldn’t overrule on a Jacobs’ touchdown in which the ball came out as he crossed the plane. Replays couldn’t really determine if the ball had come out before he reached the goal line. It was fortunate cause it really could’ve swung the momentum.
For the most part, the Giants deserved to win improving to 8-1 including a perfect 3-0 inside the division. However, had they not made key mistakes like Jacobs’ silly fumble while trying to take on the entire Eagle front when his team had scored 17 straight, it might not have been as close. That along with a late Sam Madison hit out of bounds allowed the Eagles to stay in the game giving them a chance.
As defensive leader Antonio Pierce (8 tackles) pointed out to WFAN’s Mike Francesa Monday, there’s no time for letup with the surprising 6-3 Ravens coming to town before a visit to The Desert against MVP candidate Kurt Warner and the Cardinals. It won’t get any easier with a stop at Washington at the end of the month before finishing up December with the Eagles, a visit at Dallas, home for Carolina and a stop in Minnesota who might need the game as they compete with the Bears and Packers for the NFC North.
Every opponent is good with winning records. Unlike the early portion of their sched, the G-Men now have the toughest schedule of any team which is kinda fitting considering they’re defending champs. So, if they are to earn the division and possibly home field in the NFC, they’ll have really earned it.
-Meanwhile, the Jets have rebounded winning three straight since the debacle at Oakland. Though it hasn’t always been pretty, they’ve responded well taking charge in a road win over the Bills and then blowing the doors off a bad Rams team 47-3 in which they led by a ridiculous 40-0 at the half.
They have to be very pleased with the running of Thomas Jones, who’s bounced back in a big way leading the AFC in rushing with 750 yards along with eight touchdowns including a franchise-tying three in the rout of St. Louis. The ex-Bear who the club acquired before last year already has seven more TDs than in 2007 and properly credits an improved offensive line which has done a solid job opening up holes for the gritty veteran back along with Mr. Everything Leon Washington.
Brett Favre has adjusted to the offense making good use of primary targets Jericho Cotchery and Laveranues Coles as well as rookie TE Dustin Keller, who continues to improve following his first ever 100-yard receiving game with an eight catch, 87-yard night including a huge third down and long conversion in OT to help lift Gang Green to a 34-31 road win over the rival Patriots at Gilette Stadium last night giving them their fourth consecutive win and moving into sole possession of first place at 7-3 with six games left.
The Jets were firmly in control leading the Patriots at one point 24-6 in the first half thanks to a Leon Washington kickoff return for a score and a Favre 15-yard TD strike to Cotchery. But the Pats rallied with Matt Cassel driving his team for a late first half score firing a 19-yard TD pass to Jabar Gaffney to cut it to 24-13.
New England’s D stepped up in the third quarter giving their offense every chance to comeback. Eventually, Cassel and Co. rebounded from a turnover when Tom Brady’s replacement hit TE Ben Watson from 10 yards out and then converted the two-point conversion to Gaffney making it just a field goal deficit at the end of the quarter.
With the Pats D up to the task keeping Favre and the Jets at bay, they got the ball back and then watched as Stephen Gostkowski booted a 47-yarder right down Broadway tying it with over 10 minutes to go in regulation. But when it looked like the Jets offense had gone into the tank teasing their fans, Favre stepped up driving them down the field even getting the benefit of a soft Mike Vrabel hold on third and goal that helped setup Thomas Jones from a yard out with 3:10 to go.
When the Jet D held forcing the Pats three and out, it looked like it might be sealed. However, Bill Belichick saved a timeout and had the two minute warning. His team just stopped the Jets on third down to get the ball back with under a minute and a half left.
You have to give credit to Cassel who showed tremendous poise getting his team in position without any timeouts completing the ball short to primary target Wes Welker, Watson and Gaffney while Randy Moss was held in check by Ty Law. However, even with the best receiver in the game having been held to a deuce on 10 yards, you knew it would come down to him against the ex-Pat corner with fourth and 1 looming with eight seconds to spare.
One play basically to force overtime. And when Cassel rolled to the right buying himself time before stepping up, he made a seeing eye toss to the right front corner of the end zone where Moss was tightly covered by Law. It still didn’t matter as somehow, the ex-Viking All-World dove across snagging it and then miraculously dragging his feet in bounds to give his team the tying score with one second remaining.
This was just a money catch by a world class receiver. Law didn’t play him poorly but Moss made one heck of a play. And when Gostkowski hit the PAT, here came OT.
Jets 31 Patriots 31
By now you were wondering if the Jets would ever defeat the Belichick Patriots in a big spot. They had been owned aside from Eric Mangini’s successful winning visit a couple of years ago before his team lost handily in the playoffs.
But when the coin toss went Gang Green’s way landing on tails, it allowed them to get the ball and hand it to Favre- the veteran future Hall of Famer who they traded for these kinda big moments. Even on third and 15, he wasn’t going to let them down dialing it up for 13 to a wide open Keller, who did the rest breaking a tackle for the first down.
No.4 would hit Keller twice more to keep the drive moving before finding Coles across the seam for 16 inside the New England 25 with the Patriot D paying closer attention on Keller. Three more hard runs including two by workhorse Jones to the NE 18 and they were setup to win on the leg of Jay Feely. But as NFL Network/Giant radio man Bob Papa duly noted, it was no sure thing as the ex-Giant had missed a few kicks between 30 and 40 this year.
So, it was no sure thing from 34. But Feely’s kick sailed just inside the left post with 7:10 left in OT giving the Jets the big three-point victory and now allowing them to control their own destiny.
The final totals saw the Pats account for more than 500 yards of offense including 400 through the air from Cassel with three TDs on 51 passes. He also was his team’s leading rusher with 62 on the ground while specialty back Kevin Faulk got 38.
Meanwhile, the Jets got an efficient performance from Favre who didn’t turn the ball over while going 26-of-33 for 258 yards, two scores and a 119.8 QB rating. Exactly the kind of performance they needed to come out of New England with a victory.
On the ground, the AFC’s leading rusher Jones grinded out 104 yards on 30 carries with a TD while all-everything back and return specialist Washington got 18 adding another 17 and two catches out of the backfield including the game’s opening score from seven yards out.
It was enough to give Jet fans hope that maybe in a wide open AFC outside the unbeaten Titans, maybe their team can do something. Somehow, they’ve gone from losing to the lowly Raiders, edging Herm Edwards’ Chiefs thanks to their ex-coach handing them the game to reeling off four straight including big road wins over the Bills and Pats.
Who knows what’s going to happen the rest of the way but it sure could be a fun ride. Do we dare dream the impossible Giants-Jets Super Bowl? A lot still has to go right for that to even become a realistic possibility including both teams winning their divisions and earning at least a bye into the second round. Big Blue at 8-1 is better positioned a game ahead of the Panthers but with a very tough remaining sched.
The Jets have an easier road after a big visit to Tennessee next week with games against Denver, at San Francisco, Buffalo, at Seattle and a possible huge first place showdown with Chad Pennington and the Dolphins. Who would ever have believed that back in Week One? It just might happen. If you like drama and huge storylines, that’s one worth pulling for.
-If they were handing out league MVP now, it would go to Warner, who’s been unbelievable for the first place Cardinals who look like a real contender in the NFC with their air attack featuring the likes of Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston. Here’s the 37 year-old veteran former two-time MVP as well as Super Bowl MVP leading a franchise that’s never really been anything unless you count that one wild card field goal road win over Dallas a decade prior with Jake “The Snake” Plummer who’s since retired from football.
Warner can still sling it as good as anyone and ranks second in passing yards (2,760) second in TDs (19) and first in QB rating (106.4). In a season where nobody’s really dominated and you can’t even find a single MVP candidate on the two best teams (Titans and Giants), Captain Kurt deserves to win it hands down. He’s pretty much helped the Cards nail down their weak NFC West Division leading by a preposterous four games with the Seahawks, 49ers and Rams all in the tank.
Find me a better story than Warner. Yes. What another former Giant QB Kerry Collins has done with a dominant defense in Tennessee is pretty storybook in itself but he’s not often asked to carry the offensive load the way Eli’s former tutor is in The Desert. Special stuff.
-If you really examine the Knicks’ five wins, only one came against decent competition in a home triumph over Utah, who was without Deron Williams. Sure. They’re playing a more exciting brand of basketball these days but Mike D’Antoni’s team is a long way away from being a legit contender. And as long as they continue to dog Stephon Marbury instead of doing the decent thing and letting him go separate ways, Team Dumb and Dumber Clown Mgt 101 is going to continue to look bad despite the change in coach and GM.
-Speaking of which, whatever became of David Lee’s future with the Knicks? Amazing what a change in philosophy can do to a guy’s career. He’ll wind up somewhere helping someone out.
-When they dress Eddy “Fat Albert” Curry with a bum knee while a much more motivated Marbury remains in street atire, it doesn’t look good. Somebody relay the message to Clown Creator and Innovator Jim Dolan. Somewhere, in Walt “Clyde” Frazier would be proud of us.
-Man are the new Nets bad. Didn’t someone tell them you can’t possibly build a winner around Vince Carter?
-So far so good for No.1 overall pick Derrick Rose and the Bulls. The former Memphis star went for 16, 9 and 6 in a comeback win over the Mavs in which running mate Ben Gordon lit up Dallas for 35 on 12-of-21 shooting. Heck. The former Uconn standout even handed out four assists with investigations ongoing to seek out how this could’ve transpired. Luol Deng added 20 and even former lottery pick Tyrus Thomas came off the bench for eight, eight (5 Off.), 2 blocks and 2 steals.
The 4-5 Bulls will be without Kirk Hinrich a couple of months with a torn thumb ligament. So, they’ll continue to need huge contributions from the streaky Gordon.
-Nice to see Greg Oden return to the court the other night and at least get his first NBA points on what else but a monster throwback stuff. He finished with three points, 2 blocks and 2 boards in 16 minutes in Portland’s fourth straight triumph by a 104-96 count over the Heat. The most encouraging news was that the former 2007 No.1 overall selection didn’t get hurt. The ex-Buckeye remains a project under Nate McMillan on what’s a pretty formidable roster featuring former league ROY Brandon Roy, last season’s Most Improved LaMarcus Aldridge, athletic deluxe Travis Outlaw, long range bomber Steve Blake along with key sub Channing Frye.
And don’t forget about rookie Rudy Fernandez, who dropped a career high 25 on Miami including three from downtown and eight for eight from the charity stripe. The 23 year-old who starred for Spain in Beijing where they lost out on Olympic Gold to Team USA is averaging better than 15 a game while shooting over 48 percent including 45.7 from three. He was originally selected by the Suns in 2007 24th overall but eventually was traded to Portland along with James Jones for cash. Talk about a hoist of epic proportions.
He’s easily one of the best first-year players and should be in the running for top rookie along with Rose and Memphis’ O.J. Mayo plus Michael Beasley also in the mix playing in South Florida making this year’s rookie class one of the better ones to follow.
-I’m not keen on the Yankees dealing for Nick Swisher to solve their first base issue because while he’s only 27 going on 28 following Thanksgiving, he’s not a good contact hitter and strikes out a ton despite power. Maybe the thinking here is that due to his high percentage of walks, the former A slugger could morph into a Jason Giambi type despite coming off his worst career season hitting just .219 with 24 homers, 69 RBI’s striking out 135 times while seeing his on-base percentage drop from .381 to .332 in the one season with the White Sox.
The good news is the Yanks didn’t part with a lot giving up on pitching prospect Jeff Marquez,who struggled last summer after once being considered high on their list. Also moving to Chicago was utility man Wilson Betemit, who never really distinguished himself after coming over from Hollywood for Scott Proctor. He still was a decent power bat off the bench who could fill in around the infield when called upon and finished strong hitting .265 with six dingers and 25 RBI’s in 189 at bats despite seeing his OBP diminish due to lack of walks (12 in 124 games as Yankee).
At least the Yanks also swapped prospects as part of the trade sending minor league pitcher Jhonny Nunez for righty Kaneoka Texeira. Maybe that’s what sold them on the deal. If Brian Ca$hman couldn’t cough up the big bucks for Mark Teixeira, then why not acquire another Texeira only mispelled which kinda sums up the current state in the Bronx.
Still, expect the Bronx Bombers to make a ridiculous multi-year offer to Cash Cow Sabathia later today on the first big day of free agency. If I’m Sabathia and I prefer the laid back West coast style along with the NL where he had great success in leading the Brewers to their first postseason appearance in 26 years, I sign with the Dodgers or Giants instead. Would you want to come to a crowded AL East which includes the Rays, Red Sox and Blue Jays that the Yankees have to contend with?
If he wants to win, he’ll use his brain and take less. Something which rarely happens around this time of year. We’ll see what Sabathia chooses.
-I don’t care what any big New York columnist writes negatively about him but the Mets would be crazy not to go for Manny Ramirez. The guy’s a lot of things but he also knows how to win. So, the next time you read Joel Sherman, Bill Madden or Mike Lupica talking about how he weaseled his way out of Beantown (all sadly true), just remember that he also was a huge part of Boston winning their first two world championships since 1918 with that same “lazy” player taking home World Series MVP in 2004. Think his presence didn’t make a huge difference with David Ortiz and Kevin Youkilis’ sudden rise to stardom? Think again!
Just imagine what Manny could do for David Wright, who didn’t exactly light the world on fire in crunch time for the Mets. Picture a Met lineup with Jose Reyes, David Murphy, Wright, Manny, Carlos Beltran and Carlos Delgado assuming Omar Minaya doesn’t turn around and make the slick play for Teixeira and unload the older first base slugger to replenish his farm. Would you bet against that lineup with Ryan Church also part of it if Murphy goes to second?
For the naysayers, just remember your team fell short of October the last two seasons because your GM wasn’t willing to roll the dice despite adding one of the best starters in Johan Santana. How many championships have the Amazin’s won again? They don’t exactly have the reputation of the Yankees. So, what’s keeping them from taking their best shot and going for it all? Too often, you hear Met fans call up WFAN in New York playing “what if.”
What if Minaya was bold enough to see what a star like Manny in the twilight of his career looking for that one final payday could do for his roster? Almost doesn’t count. This is about delivering a championship and what better way than bringing in the former George Washington star as they open up Citi Field? At least they could justify the costs.
If I’m the Mets, I go for Manny, add another proven October performer Derek Lowe and save some money by going for Brian Fuentes than the overpriced K-Rod whose fastball isn’t what it once was relying already too much on his slider. Just ask Red Sox hitters including Ramirez how that worked out for the Angels the past two first rounds.
Adding a gritty veteran who knows a thing or two about winning also would be wise.David Eckstein,Ray DurhamandMark Loretta are all decent options. What about bringing in a professional hitter like Kevin Millar? EvenCraig Counsell wouldn’t be a bad choice. This is all about having a reliable veteran leader who can fill a role coming off the bench. Are the Yankees paying attention cause it sure applies to them as well.
-There’s been some talk about the Yanks trading for veteran center fielder Mike Cameron who can still hit for decent power, steal bases and field his position. However, he’ll turn 36 next January and is a free swinging type who K’s a ton. Wouldn’t it be wiser to go for a younger player who won’t cost as much like Rocco Baldelli, who at 26 returned to Tampa Bay from chronic exhaustion and proved he still can contribute? The Yankee CF spot is one which the organization must be careful about due to also having Brett Gardner and prospect Austin Jackson still in their plans while Melky Cabrera could be moved.
Baldelli wouldn’t have to play everyday but is a solid defensive outfielder who does the little things well such as hitting in the gaps, stealing bases, moving runners over while still owning natural power which proved to still be there with a couple of homers in limited duty for the Rays versus the Red Sox and Phillies. It wouldn’t cost as much cause the former Rays’ 2000 No.1 pick is more of a risk. But he’s younger and possesses talent and could bring a winning formula that’s badly needed in the Land of Make Believe where a silly power struggle continues between each Steinbrenner along with evildoer Randy Levine haunting the franchise as they get ready to open their new Stadium.
-Kudos to Tim Lincecum on becoming just the third second-year pitcher since 1985 to take home the Cy Young easily outdistancing Brandon Webb (73 pts) and Johan Santana (55 pts) for tops among the Senior Circuit after posting an 18-5 record with a 2.62 ERA on the Giants while fanning a major league best 265. He joined the Mets’ Dwight Gooden and the Royals’ Bret Saberhagen as a second-year starter who took home the prestigious award receiving 23 of 32 first place votes totaling 137 points. Rounding out the top five were Phils’ perfect closer Brad Lidge and the Brew Crew’s C.C. Sabathia with Ryan Dempster finishing sixth.
-The AL Cy Young as expected went to the Indians’ Cliff Lee who went a MLB best 22-3 with a 2.54 ERA capping off a comeback season after toiling in the minors the previous year. After getting tattooed for 68 earned and 112 hits in 97-plus during 20 appearances (16 starts) to the tune of a 5-8 mark with a 6.29 ERA in 2007, the 30 year-old southpaw who came along with Grady Sizemore as part of the Bartolo Colon trade from the then Montreal Expos was dominant from the very beginning this past season winning his first six decisions while posting an 11-1 record before July.
All he did was win even though his team struggled all season eventually trading away Sabathia to the Brewers- a teammate he held in high regard who won the Cy the previous year when they went all the way to the ALCS before falling to the Red Sox in seven games. Lee finished second to runner-up Roy Halladay with four complete games and tied with the former Cy winner and six others including Sabathia with two shutouts pacing the AL. In 223.1 IP, Lee walked only 34 while striking out 170 for an impressive five to one ratio.
He became just the third Indians pitcher to take home the award joining Gaylord Perry (1972) and Sabathia by garnering 24 of 28 first place votes and 132 points to easily beat out Halladay (71 points) and Francisco Rodriguez (32 points).
-No surprise either that the Rookies of The Year went to Tampa’s Evan Longoria in the AL and the Cubs’ Geovany Soto in the NL. Both were dominant players who helped lead their clubs to division titles and each are primed to become elite players at their respective positions as well as MVP candidates. Heck. If Longoria hadn’t missed a month, who knows? Maybe he sweeps ROY and MVP which is most likely going to either Youkilis or Boston teammate Dustin Pedroia. Though you could make the argument that had Carlos Quentin not injured himself, he’d have won it.
-I don’t get the rationale of the Cubs trading for former Marlins’ closer Kevin Gregg, who bombed down the stretch costing them a shot at the playoffs. Unless they’re hell bent on handing the job over to flamethrower Carlos Marmol with Kerry Wood on the outs. Just remember. Closing is a lot different than setting up. We’ll see how it goes.
-They’re not playing great by any stretch but the Rangers sure look like the only sure thing to see the postseason out of the three locals with Martin Brodeur sidelined on a banged up Devil team which is struggling mightily. The Islanders are a rebuilding project who are more likely to compete for John Tavares.
-It’s still a little weird not seeing Marty in net versus the Rangers where he’d only missed three starts versus his favorite opponent since like his rookie season. That’s insanity but also points to just how unbelievably consistent and remarkable the future Hall of Famer who will resume his pursuit of Patrick Roy’s wins and games record as well as Terry Sawchuk’s shutouts mark when he returns in February.
For now, it’s a long road back after tearing his biceps and admittedly saying he’d played with it before needing to be helped off the ice for what Lou Lamoriello termed “a bruised elbow.” Gotta love those NHL injury reports as they’re always so honest. Just ask the Islanders about the latest setback for their franchise Rick DiPietro.
So, with no Marty and no DiPi, that means only Henrik Lundqvist remains in net healthy capable of backstopping his team up the standings despite something missing. It’s getting lonely in goal quickly here.
-First, it was the Patriots winning three times. Then it was the Red Sox winning twice. Then it was the Celtics winning last Spring with an assist from Kevin McHale. Gee. What a surprise. Now, it’s the Bruins who are starting to look like serious Stanley Cup contenders after dismantling the Canadiens 6-1 in what’s become the best division in hockey. We’re serious too here! What is it about Massachusetts sports teams? Is there something in the water or is it the Boston Lager? Inquiring minds want to know.
-Have you ever seen as exciting an NHL game as the Pens 7-6 comeback road win over the defending champion Wings exacting a little revenge thanks to a natural hat trick from Jordan Staal plus a primary helper on Ruslan Fedotenko’s OT winner? What a great game!
-They don’t get the play of the Cubs or even the revamped Bulls but the Blackhawks are one exciting hockey club. If you haven’t caught their act featuring some of the best young talent in Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews and Kris Versteeg, the once great Original Six franchise is back on the right track and ticketed for the postseason. They are also honoring their past including a very nice double-retirement ceremony we caught the other night honoring former great defensemen Pierre Pilote and Keith Magnuson while also reinviting former star and coach Denis Savard back as club ambassador. This is definitely a team to watch even if you’re not a big puck supporter. It’s nice to see them honoring their roots.
-I gotta admit it’s a little weird seeing AC/DC rocking out in school wear all these years later but how could you not admire their swagger? They’re still sticking with what got them at the pinnacle of the rock scene.
-It’s sad to note that the final member of The Jimi Hendrix Experience Mitch Mitchell passed away at the age of 62 joining the legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix and Noel Redding upstairs though the dynamic trio is probably up there making the same kind of electrifying music which produced amazing albums like Are You Experienced (1967) Axis: Bold as Love (1967) and Electric Ladyland (1968).
Mitchell was the underrated drummer of The Experience while Redding played an exquisite bass and Jimi did his thing like few others redefining the way guitar was played. They might all be gone but their legacy shall live on forever because as we all know, truly great music is timeless.
Let’s honor and remember them the appropriate way:
I could watch/listen to this special array of talent forever.
We’re basically at the halfway point of the season and with the clocks going an hour back and November officially here having been brought in by an amazing college football game won by Texas Tech with a second to spare over No.1 Texas, what kind of big games will we get in the crucial final two months of the regular season?
There’s only one unbeaten in defensive minded Tennessee and the defending champion Giants are 6-1 just half a game in front of the surprising Redskins with every NFC East team including the banged up Cowboys who enter with five wins looking to pull a huge upset at East Rutherford. The Eagles must also not be forgotten at 4-3 with a very winnable road game in Seattle.
The question is is there a better division in football? Sure doesn’t seem like it despite Jerry Jones lurking around promising changes if his injured team doesn’t get going.
Meanwhile, the struggling Jets are at a crossroads somehow just a game behind the first place Bills as they enter a big divisional match-up at Ralph Wilson Stadium where the 5-2 Bills have yet to lose in three home games. They’re usually very tough to beat there as well getting great special teams, solid D and efficient QBing from second-year starter Trent Edwards.
So, can Brett Favre and a lost Gang Green team who squeaked by the lowly Chiefs last week thanks to the usual Herm Edwards “Play To Win Lose” philosophy get the ship righted and come away with a ‘W’ in Buffalo? All that and more shall get answered today.
NFL Week 9
Jets (4-3) at Bills (5-2)- It’s hard not to like Buffalo here. Especially after a bitter defeat in Miami last week in which they gave up the last 18 points. Sure. They’ve dropped two of three but every time this team is doubted, they step up with a good performance. The same can’t be said for the dysfunctional Jets who still don’t know what they are despite having a gunslinger. Does Favre respond? Something tells me this will be tight late.
Prediction: Jets 20 Bills 26
Jaguars (3-4) at Bengals (0-8)- Our Super Bowl pick is in huge trouble following a six point home loss to the Browns. They along with the Colts trail the Titans by a ridiculous four games. Right now, it’s just about Jack Del Rio’s inconsistent club staying afloat. He’s labeled Matt Jones their best receiver. Well, duh. They can’t afford to foul this up. So figure Jones to have a nice day and for the Jags to reestablish the ground game.
Prediction: Jags 27 Bengals 16
Ravens (4-3) at Browns (3-4)- Can anyone explain the up and down Browns who can destroy the Giants while losing a tight one to the Skins before rebounding in Jacksonville? They obviously are playing better. They’ll need to not turn it over against an opportunistic Raven D. Something tells me they get it done.
Prediction: Ravens 13 Browns 19
Texans (3-4) at Vikings (3-4)- Two teams with identical records but one hot having reeled off three straight while the other has been an enigma all season despite being a trendy pick. So, can Houston continue its resurgence in Minnesota? That’s usually a tough place to win. This might be close.
Prediction: Texans 17 Vikings 20
Lions (0-7) at Bears (4-3)- Did anyone have the Kyle Orton led Bears putting up 48 on the Vikes two weeks ago? Suddenly, they’re very much in play for the division with the Packers. So, this should be a no-brainer against a winless team Orton lit up once already. At least Daunte Culpepper has a day job again.
Prediction: Lions 13 Bears 27
Bucs (5-3) at Chiefs (1-6)-Jon Gruden’s team is coming off a disappointing 13-9 road loss to the Cowboys. So, figure them to be better this week against the lowly Chiefs who can’t possibly duplicate their performance from last week. The Bucs don’t score much but they’re much better coached than the Jets and need the game.
Prediction: Bucs 20 Chiefs 12
Cards (4-3) at Rams (2-5)- Two-time league MVP Kurt Warner returns to where it all started with the Rams when he led them to a Super Bowl win going from bagging groceries to one of the best stories. He’s having a very good season leading the high powered Cards into first. His former team is playing better under Jim Haslett. So, this won’t be easy. But I wouldn’t bet against Warner in this spot.
Prediction: Cards 31 Rams 24
Packers (4-3) at Titans (7-0)- Can anyone stop the Titans? Green Bay should be in this game but they better find a way to slow down Tennessee’s ground game or it could be a long day. Kerry Collins doesn’t have to be lights out due to the combo of Chris Johnson and LenDale White. He can pick his spots. Something tells me the Titans will blanket Ryan Grant getting to Aaron Rodgers.
Prediction: Packers 13 Titans 24
Dolphins (3-4) at Broncos (4-3)- Miami’s coming off a quality home win over Buffalo keeping them in the AFC East race a couple back of the Bills and Pats. Chad Pennington threw for over 300 yards and has been rejuvenated. Denver has dropped two straight but is coming off a bye and should be healthier. Figure Jay Cutler and their air attack to get back on track.
Prediction: Dolphins 20 Broncos 31
Cowboys (5-3) at Giants (6-1)- Let’s see. No Tony Romo. Check. No Felix Jones. Check. Probably no Jason Witten. Check. No Terrence Newman. Check. A 40 year-old immobile QB in Brad JohnsonMarion Barber forcing Johnson to beat them. The Giants meanwhile are much healthier and just need to do a better job in the red zone. starting against a super fast pass rushing D. Check. Despite all that, expect the Cowboys to stay in it because there’s too much at stake. They should play hard. But figure the Giants to concentrate on stopping
Prediction: Cowboys 17 Giants 26
Eagles (4-3) at Seahawks (2-5)- Donovan McNabb is motivated and Brian Westbrook is healthy. So, this shouldn’t be any cause for concern against a bad Seahawk team. Right? Figure the Eagle D to make life miserable for Matt Hasselbeck.
Prediction: Eagles 28 Seahawks 13
Falcons (4-3) at Raiders (2-5)- The Falcons suffered a 13-point loss to the Eagles last week and now visit The Black Hole looking for a bounce back performance. Expect rookie Matt Ryan to step up with a nice run game led by Michael Turner. A win keeps one of the league’s pleasant surprises right there for the NFC South.
Prediction: Falcons 24 Raiders 16
Patriots (5-2) at Colts (3-4)- The Pats somehow have five wins without Tom Brady because they blew the doors off Denver in a must win two weeks ago and held off a tougher Rams team. Now, they enter one of those old establishment match-ups in primetime against Peyton Manning and the struggling Colts. I just can’t see Manning letting his team lose this one. It’s too important.
Prediction: Pats 16 Colts 27
Steelers (5-2) at Redskins (6-2)- This is easily the best game of the week. Boy. Did ESPN luck out and you can’t always say that. So, how will they ruin it? Who had Washington with six wins already? Mean time, Big Ben tries to rebound from a pitiful performance against an attacking Giant D which sacked him five times forcing him into five turnovers. The Skins continue to play well getting inspired running from league leader Clinton Portis and efficient passing from Jason Campbell, who enters without an Int. A potential barn burner in the making between two good football teams.
-The Rays bounced back with a 4-2 win in Game 2 over the Phillies evening the World Series at a game apiece with the next three back in Philly this weekend. Tampa Bay scored twice in the first and tacked on a couple of more runs in the second and fourth off losing Phillie starter Brett Myers while ace James Shields held their opponent without a run in five and two thirds scattering seven hits while walking two and striking out four.
A pair of RBI ground outs from Carlos Pena and rookie third baseman Evan Longoria helped Tampa Bay get off to a quick start. B.J. Upton’s two out bases loaded RBI single to the opposite field plated a third run before Jayson Werth’s throw nailed Rocco Baldelli at the plate with the right fielder crashing into Philadelphia catcher Carlos Ruiz, who held on for the final out.
With Cliff Floyd on third, a well executed safety squeeze from shortstop Jason Bartlett scored the fourth run two innings later.
After Dan Wheeler came onto toss one scoreless frame K-ing a pair, ALCS Game Seven rookie hero David Price made things interesting by giving up a two out eighth inning pinch hit Eric Bruntlett solo blast to left breaking the shutout.
With Joe Maddon staying with the former 2007 first overall pick out of Vanderbilt, it got even tighter when Ruiz ledoff with a double and Jimmy Rollins appeared to be hit by a pitch. If the ball did touch part of the 2007 NL MVP’s jersey, plate umpire Kerwin Danley wasn’t saying and neither did the shortstop make much of it.
Instead, Price cameback to pop him up for a big first out before Werth’s scorcher off Longoria which somehow was ruled an E5 scored Ruiz for the Phils’ second run sending the tying run to the plate inGame 1 hero Chase Utley with Ryan Howard on deck. But Price dug deep getting Utley to chase and then inducing the struggling Howard into a grounder right into the shift for an easy 4-3 putout ending the game.
-A good win for the Rays who like they did in the ALCS against Boston bounced back from a Game One home defeat to even a series making it anyone’s with five potential games left. They”ll be in the identical spot they were when they visited Fenway sending ALCS MVP Matt Garza to the mound against crafty 45 year-old southpaw Jamie Moyer Saturday night. Figure the edge to go to the Rays if Garza continues to dominate. We’ll see if Howard can get untracked.
The other two match-ups at Citizen’s Bank Park pits Andy Sonnanstine against Joe Blanton and a Game 1 lefty rematch between 24 year-olds Scott Kazmir and Cole Hamels. This series shaped up to be a good one and thus far, has delivered even if ratings on Fox are probably down due to who’s in it. It’s good baseball though with solid pitching on both sides, low scores and key hits. Whoever wins the whole thing will have really earned it.
-Who cares if Brett Favre really put in a call to buddy Matt Millen before he was axed by Detroit about a game versus his ex-team. What does it matter? We’re talking about the Lions here, who need all the help they can get and that still wouldn’t be enough. What’s sad is that Favre lied when asked about whether he spoke to Millen. Why hide it? It’s not that bad to begin with but makes him look a lot worse.
Meanwhile, Favre’s sketchy play on the gridiron for an underachieving 3-3 Jets team in a weaker AFC is what should come under fire by the New York media here. He just hasn’t been the difference Gang Green expected him to be with part of the blame on conservative coach Eric Mangini along with Brian Schottenheimer, who’d rather run the ball with Thomas Jones than let one of the greatest QBs the game’s ever seen win a game at Oakland in which he was responsible for even getting it there in the first place.
You don’t treat Favre with kid gloves. That was easily one of the most poorly coached OTs I’ve ever seen with the Jets getting what they deserved. An ugly loss putting them two behind an overachieving bunch in Buffalo who find ways to win and don’t use excuses like the ones Bob Wischusen invents behind a Jets microphone over on ESPN Radio.
Bottom Line: The good teams overcome adversity to pull out games while the mediocre ones don’t which is what the Jets are right now. Mediocre.
-I’m no expert but what does changing her name to Sasha Fierce have to do with Beyonce anyway? She’s fierce anyway. We know that. Just look at her!
You’re probably wondering why I haven’t written much about sports this week. Part of it is cause I’ve been way preoccupied running Battle of NY putting together plenty of Ranger entries with the tragic news of Alexei Cherepanov only making it that more urgent. Poor kid was only 19. What a terrible way to go. Only 19.
The fact is he should be alive no matter if he had a heart condition. The KHL (Continental Hockey League) is still liable for not having a defibrillator in working order and the ambulance needing to be called back to the arena when this awful tragedy took place in the third period.
I feel terrible for his parents and family who have to live with the harsh fact that their son isn’t around anymore. I hope to God they get the world for this. It shouldn’t have ever come to this. Even if they do get all that money, nothing can replace their son and how special he might’ve been. Now we’ll never know just how good the former Ranger 2007 17th overall selection could’ve become.
I just wish he were still around. His spirit lives on and let’s hope an extremely valuable lesson was learned for the inaugural professional hockey league in Russia. But it sure comes at a very costly price. It was one of their own who was taken. It doesn’t get any worse.
I also feel very bad for Jaromir Jagr, who went back to play once more with Cherepanov and help prepare him for the NHL. The former Ranger superstar had informed the organization that he could play on the team’s second line already. The talented Russian was off to a great start having scored in his final game an eighth time with 13 points total in 15 games. It was following a shift on a near miss off a two-on-one with Jagr that he and his close teammate nearly twice his age joked about probably should’ve scored.
Then the worst happened and he passed out on the bench with Jagr pleading for him to wake up before six people carried him back to the locker room reviving him briefly before he was pronounced dead at the hospital. If everything had been functioning, he probably could’ve been saved. Instead, a life was taken from us way too soon.
Tragedies occur everyday. This one was inexcusable and should’ve been prevented. If only.
R.I.P. Alexei Cherepanov (1989 - 2008)
Aside from the sad doings with an entire hockey community still mourning, here’s a thought which I’m sure many here can agree with:
I’m sick of the Red Sox. Can’t they just go away already? Why couldn’t the Rays finish the job? They were only seven outs away from a five game series win and their first World Series when the unthinkable happened blowing a seven-run lead letting that gritty resilient championship bunch off the hook completely.
Suddenly, Big Papi remembered who he was and hit a huge two out home run and the rest of his teammates followed suit with J.D. Drew taking advantage of Evan Longoria’s throwing miscue to knock in the winning run forcing Game Six. Of course, it was started by probable AL MVP Dustin Pedroia who hadn’t hit much this October. You just can’t give that team an inch.
It’s like what WFAN’s Chris Carlin said on the Morning Warm Up quoting former Arizona Cards’ coach Dennis Green who had that infamous quote after his team gave away a game versus the Bears a few years ago:
“They are what we thought they were!”
Now, suddenly here are the Rays facing a similar crisis to the one the 2004 Yankees experienced when they had the worst collapse of all-time. Sure. It wouldn’t be as bad if they lose tonight’s Game Seven dropping the last three victimized the way Cleveland was a year ago.
However, the scenario would be similar due to having the Sox beat before totally imploding blowing a bigger lead with a pen which had been very reliable before manager Joe Maddon messed up not going to either lefty Trever Miller or J.P. Howell to face David Ortiz when it became apparent Grant Balfour had nothing suddenly opening the door.
Imagine you’re a young talented Tampa Bay team who’s been resilient all year having won when needed against Boston to remain in first and win your first AL East crown. Now, it’s suddenly all on the line the way it was for the Yankees and A-Rod battered by stunning defeats wondering if you’re about to blow it and be labeled chokers with another game in your own home building.
And you know there will be plenty of supporters for the enemy rooting for more history. Just like that unlikely scenario where Derek Lowe easily outpitched Kevin Brown, the Red Sox have the edge on the mound with Jon Lester facing Matt Garza in a Game Three rematch. Can Garza really get the better of Lester twice? It seems unlikely.
Some friendly advice for Longoria, the red hot B.J. Upton (4 homers in ALCS, AL tying record 7), Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena: Get the jump early and get your fans into it.
If they don’t, they’re probably doomed.
Full credit must go out to the Red Sox, who never seem to panic and are showing why they’ve won a couple of World Series the last four years. Still, at some point, their opponent has to show that they have heart to fight back too.
Hopefully, that’ll be tonight cause I’d really like to see two fresh teams decide this year’s World Series.
A Phillies-Rays series would serve that purpose and be very fun and exciting.
Week Seven is here in the NFL and here are our picks:
BILLS (4-1) over Chargers (3-3), 1 ET: The Bolts blew out the Pats but traveled cross country against a good rested Buffalo team. Trent Edwards returns and we think he helps make a difference.
Saints (3-3) over PANTHERS (4-2), 1 ET: Originally, we were tempted to go with Carolina after a dreadful showing at Tampa but are they really that much better than a Saint team which is finally clicking on all cylinders? This one should be tight late.
Vikings (3-3) over BEARS (3-3), 1 ET: Neither of these teams are anything special and don’t score many points. So, expect a very close game where perhaps the team that turns it over less and executes win. I’ll go with the best gamebreaker Adrian Peterson.
BENGALS (0-6) over Steelers (4-1), 1 ET: Pittsburgh is undoubtedly the better team but Cincinnati hasn’t been playing like a winless team and this is one of those dangerous rivalry games. Maybe the Bengals catch Big Ben and Pitt napping.
Titans (5-0) over CHIEFS (1-4), 1 ET: The NFL’s lone remaining unbeaten travels to Arrowhead fresh off a bye week against a brutal opponent. Unless Larry Johnson goes off against the league’s top rated D, it should be a long day in Kansas City.
DOLPHINS (2-3) over Ravens (2-3), 1 ET: Both these teams are coming off bad losses but at least Miami was competitive. Plus they lost in tough fashion. More than you can say for Baltimore who got smoked by the Colts. Both D’s are good and will keep it close but I just feel the home field and Chad Pennington are enough for the Finns to get back on track.
GIANTS (4-1) over 49ers (2-4), 1 ET: It’s awfully hard to see Eli and Co. having a second straight off week after how the Browns manhandled them on national TV. That had to be a wakeup call. This could be close without Antonio Pierce (iffy). Especially with one of the game’s better backs Frank Gore. But figure Big Blue to respond well before a very challenging stretch approaches.
Cowboys (4-2) over RAMS (1-4), 1 ET: Can anyone really see the ‘Boys losing a third in four to the lowly Rams on turf? They’ve already disappointed and might be without Tony Romo (pinky) but there’s still plenty of fire power to get by with T.O., newly acquired Roy Williams and Jason Witten. So why risk further injury to their starting QB?
TEXANS (1-4) over Lions (0-5), 4:05 ET: The Texans finally got their first win pulling one out over the Skins atoning for the prior week’s Sage Rosenfels’ collapse against Indy. Matt Schaub returned and the game’s most overlooked receiver Andre Johnson was heroic. The Post Matt Millen Lion Era has already tossed in the towel reloading by getting a nice return for Williams. The question is how many will they lose?
PACKERS (3-3) over Colts (3-2), 4:15 ET: This is easily one of the best games on the menu featuring Peyton Manning versus Aaron Rodgers with two teams’ fates still in question. Though they’re in a weak division, Green Bay kinda needs the game and I can see Greg Jennings and Donald Driver having big days.
Jets (3-2) over RAIDERS (1-4), 4:15 ET: Another game which Brett Favre and Gang Green must get before business picks up in the second half. With the Chiefs next, they really have no excuses. Why do I get the feeling this will be close?
Browns (2-3) over REDSKINS (4-2), 4:15 ET: MNF was a statement game for Derek Anderson and the Browns playing out of this world against the Giants saving their season. Sometimes, a game like that can give a team a huge boost and the way they played pounding the ball on the ground, passing it and playing physical D, it could carry over against another quality NFC East foe on the road. Kellen Winslow could also be back. The Skins are coming off a very tough loss to St. Louis and have much to prove. This could come down to a last second field goal.
BUCCANEERS (4-2) over Seahawks (1-4), 8:15 ET, NBC: Somehow, Jon Gruden has the Bucs playing a very good brand of football despite not having a star QB getting the most out of vets Brian Griese and Jeff Garcia. In his return to Tampa, Warrick Dunn’s been a nice addition on the ground giving Tampa a well balanced attack along with Ernest Graham. Right now, Seattle can’t seem to get out of its own way. There’s Matt Hasselbeck still but they’re unable to get much done. This is a trap game for Tampa Bay which they must not take lightly.
PATRIOTS (3-2) over Broncos (4-2), 8:30 ET, ESPN MNF: Knowing history with Mike Shanahan versus Bill Belichick, all signs point to Denver who boasts one of the league’s premier offenses led by gunslinger Jay Cutler featuring weapons Brandon Marshall and rookie Eddie Royal. With Matt Cassel struggling last week, the Pats were blown out by the Chargers and are reeling. So, why are we picking them? Just a hunch that the Denver D helps New England out of their funk. Maybe I’m nuts but it’s hard to go against Belichick in this spot even with everything lining up against him.
During this season, our Hard Hits shows have made NFL picks for a few weeks missing last week as well as this upcoming Week Six later today.
So, let’s take a look at Sunday’s match-ups and give our synopsis:
Chicago (3-2) at Atlanta (3-2), 1 ET: You have two surprising teams with the same record. The Falcons have a better offense but go up against a solid D. Figure the ground attack of both teams to decide this one featuring Michael Turner and rookie Matt Forte. Devin Hester tilts special teams in Chicago’s favor. I see it being decided by a late field goal.
The Pick: Falcons 23 Bears 20
Miami (2-2) vs Houston (0-4), 1 ET: The improved Dolphins look to make it three in a row off impressive wins over the Pats and Chargers while the winless Texans try to overcome Sage Rosenfels’ nightmarish final three series handing away their first win to the Colts. Matt Schaub returns as starter. This game could be tight but I like the way Miami’s D is playing and Chad Pennington and Ronnie Brown are getting it done.
The Pick: Dolphins 24 Texans 16
Baltimore (2-2) vs Indianapolis (2-2), 1 ET: The Ravens are coming off their second tough loss in a row thanks to a late gift versus the Titans. Their D is playing superb keeping them in games. As long as rookie QB Joe Flacco doesn’t turn it over, they’ll have a chance. Especially against a poor Colt D which hasn’t been the same since run specialist Bob Sanders went down. Somehow, they’re still .500 and have Peyton Manning, who usually does just enough to beat Baltimore in these match-ups. They’re also 0-2 at new Lucas Oil Stadium. Can anyone really see them dropping three straight at home?
The Pick: Colts 24 Ravens 20
Detroit (0-4) at Minnesota (2-3), 1 ET: The Lions stink. What the heck is Roy Williams smoking? The NFL’s fifth worst offense won’t do much against the Vikings D. They saved their season with a win in New Orleans last week and can’t afford a letdown here. Figure Adrian Peterson to rip it up after an off week rushing for a career worst 32 yards as starter. This one could get ugly.
The Pick: Vikings 38 Lions 10
Oakland (1-3) at New Orleans (2-3), 1 ET: It’s the Raiders’ first game under new coach Tom Cable but it comes at a bad time with an angry Saints team which could’ve won last week against the Vikes. Reggie Bush returned two punts for touchdowns tying an NFL record. He’s kicking it into high gear and so should Drew Brees even if the Raider D ain’t bad.
The Pick: Saints 31 Raiders 17
Cincinnati (0-5) at NY Jets (2-2), 1 ET: This is a dangerous spot for the Jets coming off a bye week after Brett Favre went for a career best six TDs in a shootout win over the Cardinals. Despite no wins, the Bengals haven’t played badly recently taking the Giants to OT, losing an ugly game to the Browns and giving the Cowboys all they can handle last Sunday. The good news for Gang Green is no Carson Palmer (elbow) with backup Ryan Fitzpatrick getting the start. Still, figure this to be close. The Jets must silence T.J. Houshmandzadeh. They should do just enough to win.
The Pick: Jets 23 Bengals 20
Carolina (4-1) at Tampa Bay (3-2), 1 ET: The Panthers are off to their best start in five years when they went to the Super Bowl before losing to the Patriots. Led by Julius Peppers, their D has gotten it done limiting the last four opponents to just five TDs ranking fourth best in the NFL. Rookie back DeAngelo Williams has taken pressure off Jake Delhomme. Meanwhile, the Bucs don’t even know who’s starting between Brian GrieseJeff Garcia. They don’t score a lot to begin with and will need big days from RB duo Ernest GrahamWarrick Dunn. I don’t see that happening. and and
The Pick: Panthers 27 Bucs 13
St. Louis (0-4) at Washington (4-1), 1 ET: One of the worst teams meets one of the hottest with the Skins having reeled off four in a row including big wins over the Cowboys and Eagles. They still haven’t turned the ball over under new coach Jim Zorn. Jason Campbell has progressed and Clinton Portis is running hard. It shouldn’t matter if Marc Bulger’s back in for the Rams. This shouldn’t be a contest.
Redskins 34 Rams 9
Jacksonville (2-3) at Denver (4-1), 4:05 ET: The league’s best offense features Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall and rookie Eddie Royal back from a sprained ankle. The Broncos will try to air it out against a stingy Jags’ D. They need to score points because their D stinks. The Jags aren’t anything special with David Garrard but Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew can be dangerous if they get untracked. Matt Jones is an emerging target. They need the game and I see them pounding Denver on the ground and doing what they need to come out with a ‘W.’
The Pick: Jaguars 27 Broncos 24
Dallas (4-1) at Arizona (3-2), 4:15 ET: The NFC’s best scoring offenses square off in The Desert where there should be plenty of support for the ‘Boys. I’m still not overly impressed with Dallas due to their defense which took a hit losing corner Terrence Newman (abdomen) for at least a month. They’ll score a lot of points in what should be a shootout featuring QBs Tony Romo and Kurt Warner with potent weapons like the moody Terrell Owens, Larry Fitzgerald, Jason Witten, Marion Barber and Edgerrin James. If you prefer high scoring offenses, this should be your type of game. I just like Dallas’ ground attack a little better with rookie Felix Jones also getting involved.
The Pick: Cowboys 38 Cardinals 35
Philadelphia (2-3) at San Francisco (2-3), 4:15 ET: Amazingly, these two teams have identical records which is why Donovan McNabb was so critical of his team’s play following a second straight defeat. Figure the veteran QB to elevate his level and have a huge day. Brian Westbrook does make a difference offensively. Who would you rather have though running your offense? McNabb or J.T. O’Sullivan? Enough said. Figure the Eagles who got destroyed by the Skins’ run game to key on Frank Gore forcing O’Sullivan to beat them.
The Pick: Eagles 28 49ers 15
Green Bay (2-3) at Seattle (1-3), 4:15 ET: The last 4:15 game has the desperate Packers looking to get back on track following a disappointing three-game slide after a good start to the Aaron Rodgers Era. This is a must have against former Super Bowl coach Mike Holmgren’s slumping Seahawks who got trounced by the Giants 44-6. I know Seattle isn’t an easy place to play due to the noise level but the Pack need this game and will get it.
The Pick: Packers 31 Seahawks 20
New England (3-1) at San Diego (2-3), 8:15 ET, NBC: The Chargers aren’t playing well having lost to the ‘Fins in ugly fashion last week. This is a make or break for them against a team that’s had their number and even danced on their logo. It’s no easy task anytime you go up against Bill Belichick no matter if it’s Matt Cassell at QB. There’s still Randy Moss and Wes Welker along with a rugged D who usually takes certain things way. Figure that to be LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles which Norv Turner shouldn’t mind with Phillip Rivers airing it out. He can’t afford any costly mistakes. It says here the Bolts find a way to get it done even though I’m not a big fan.
The Pick: Chargers 27 Patriots 23
NY Giants (4-0) at Cleveland (1-3), 8:30 ET, Mon: Nobody is playing better football than the defending SB champs. Tom Coughlin’s team has played with a chip on their shoulder getting great QBing from Eli Manning along with a balanced run attack featuring Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward and Ahmad Bradshaw. Plaxico Burress is back after a week off due to his shenanigans. Amani Toomer continues to defy logic plus Steve Smith and Domenik Hixon are emerging. Did we mention the D which has Justin Tuck, Mathias Kiwanuka and underappreciated Fred Robbins. They don’t give up much. With Kellen Winslow expected out due to a mysterious illness, it should be open season on Derek Anderson.
-And so, the New York baseball season is over and it really does feel weird that both the Mets and Yankees won’t be playing meaningful baseball as October gets ready to hit. I just can’t remember what this felt like. Sure. The two teams both finished with identical records winning 89 games which meant they didn’t stink by any stretch but when you have the kind of payrolls they do, so many expectations come with it for this spoiled city which makes it all the more disappointing.
In the end, both teams despite big names proved to be flawed which was why they fell short in their postseason bids. Injuries aside, the Yankees didn’t have enough pitching or timely hitting. For some reason, they never hit the way they could’ve and too often couldn’t deliver in the clutch. That along with being a very streaky team which sometimes lacked energy kept them from putting together that run with their best ball coming way too late when the season was already lost.
The Mets also had their share of injuries but severely underperformed the first 10 weeks getting Willie Randolph axed before waking up under Jerry Manuel to get back in the race. Despite no pen to speak of, they persevered and once again were in great position to win their division before it all came crashing down in the final couple of weeks though not as badly as last year. While the pen could never be trusted and cost them a ton of games, what was most baffling was the offense which at times disappeared. How do you explain getting shutout 1-0 against the majors’ worst team the Nats? And what about scoring only five runs in the do or die weekend series against the same Marlins who danced on their field eliminating them last year? Questions will continue to linger about David Wright and Jose Reyes until they stop disappearing and carry this team back to October and beyond.
Now, it will be a long offseason for Omar Minaya with plenty of angry customers wondering why next year will be different at Citi Field. Getting a real second baseman while unloading Luis Castillo along with revamping the bullpen are just a couple of topics he must address with new record closer Francisco Rodriguez at the top of the list. It’s also likely Pedro Martinez pitched his final game as a Met after struggling mightily. And then there’s Oliver Perez, who will be seeking a deal in the neighborhood of $12-16 million per year under greedy agent Scott Boras$. Is he really worth that kind of money longterm? I say no. He’s just too unpredictable to get to that next level. What about Carlos Delgado? Do they pick up the $12 million option rewarding him for his brilliant second half or do they try to get younger going for better defense? If they let him go, it won’t be easy to replace his big bat.
As for the Yankees, they will need to decide on center field moving forward along with what they intend to do with Joba Chamberlain. If they make him a starter, then they must continue to shore up their pen. Bringing back 20-game winner Mike Mussina should be at the top of Brian Cashman’s list. Figure Andy Pettite to either retire or go elsewhere following a dismal second half. The Yanks of course need a real ace and should be in the running for C.C. Sabathia, John Lackey or A.J. Burnett with him expected to opt out of Toronto. There’s also the first base situation where they could be competing with the Angels and Mets for Mark Teixeira. Figure Jason Giambi to go elsewhere after a productive season proving he can still be a valuable DH somewhere. As for Bobby Abreu, he’s a solid run producer who gets on base but leaves something to be desired for in right which is why we see Xavier Nady shifting.
Whatever transpires over the next three months, New York baseball fans know full well their rosters won’t look the same following a quiet October.
Get ready for chaos.
-Just in case we forgot, there’s still one more regular season game to be played later today when the Twins visit the Windy City against the White Sox, who earned the one-game home playoff by getting a grand slam from overlooked rookie second baseman Alexei Ramirez in an 8-2 win over the Tigers in a makeup game Monday. They get the game despite winning their first in six thanks to the Twins dropping two of three to the Royals despite sweeping three from Ozzie Guillen’s club to pull half a game up. It’ll be John Danks going on three days rest against Nick Blackburn to decide the AL Central for the final playoff berth.
One team will advance to play the Tampa Bay Rays in the Division Series while Boston travels to California to meet the 100-win Angels.
The NL of course is all set with the Cubs taking on the Dodgers while the Phillies host the Brewers, who are in their first postseason in 26 years.
We’ll have more playoff stuff later on.
-It’s hard to choose one between each but our pick for NL MVP would be Ryan Howard for how he carried the Phillies the final month having one of the best Septembers eerily similar to when he clubbed 58 home runs and knocking in 149 to win the award two years ago. I’ve always been a huge fan of Manny Ramirez and he sure stepped up carrying the Dodgers in the final two months impacting their lineup while coming back to win the NL West. But it’s hard to pick him over Howard with how well the first base slugger finished leading his team to a 13-3 record over the final 16 pressure packed games in a very tight race.
-The same could be said for the NL Cy Young where worthy candidates like Johan Santana, Brandon Webb and Tim Lincecum all are in the running against Milwaukee rental Sabathia, who tossed a remarkable seven complete games pacing the league while turning in a money performance following Santana’s gem to get the Brewers in. For that, we’ll give the nod to Sabathia over Lincecum with Santana third and Webb fourth.
-AL MVP is a little easier and could depend on if the Twins win with Justin Morneau once again in the running against Boston tandem Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis. It’s hard to ignore Carlos Quentin’s impact with the White Sox, who haven’t been the same since he went down. To be honest, he would’ve been a lock had he not broken his wrist. If the Twins get in, Morneau should win his second MVP in three years this time edging another do everything infielder Pedroia, who resembles a young Derek Jeter. If not, give the award to Pedroia because he’s been his team’s best player since the Manny trade.
-As for AL Cy Young, Cliff Lee should get the nod handily edging out K-Rod, Dice-K and Roy Halladay. I know he won’t get a lot of consideration but Moose deserves a few votes for how well he pitched in the Bronx this year.
-What else can Joe Girardi be two-faced about and purposely hide from the media?
-It’s nice to see Brett Favre finally be allowed to open it up and get on the same page with Laveranues Coles, who caught three touchdowns for the first time in his career- half of Favre’s career high six in the Jets’ 56-35 win over Kurt Warner and the Cards. I just wonder if Gang Green fans can be pleased about their D turning a 34-0 halftime cushion into a game by allowing three straight TDs in the third quarter before Favre and the Jet offense put it away.
-Did anyone ever think the Bills and Titans would both be the only remaining unbeatens in the AFC looking like playoff locks?
-How come Terrell Owens always blames Dallas defeats on not getting him involved enough when it was about as believable as anything Sarah Palin says? Can’t he ever give credit to the opponent because the Redskins played a heck of a game and have certainly turned things around since the NFL Opener defeat to the Giants? But hey. T-Ho will always be a selfserving primadona who doesn’t care about the team concept despite his talent which is why I’d never take him on my team.
-I could do a better job than Scott Linehan did with the Rams.
-It sure took long enough for the Lions to realize Matt Millen wasn’t a good Team President. I wonder what keyed them in on that.
-When someone takes shots at the Yanks and Mets for not qualifying, just remember you could be the Tigers who gave up the world for Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis, who now looks like a serious rebuilding project. Tell ya one thing. Cameron Maybin sure looks good in center for the Marlins. And if Andrew Miller pans out, that’s gonna be one heck of a rotation in 2009. The Mets and Phillies might have some competition for the NL East.
-Just how ridiculous is Jim Dolan? Idiotic enough to continue bringing back Allan Houston while refusing to payoff Stephon Marbury to get him off the Knicks roster. That’s why no matter who’s running it, they’ll always be the same laughingstock.
-Now would be a good time to tell the Rangers that the NHL regular season begins in a few days over in Europe cause they have looked really bad so far. I wonder what Glen Sather thinks now of investing six years and six and a half per on Wade Redden. Just wait till the season starts up. You ain’t seen nothing yet.
-What I like about the Giant organization is they stick to their rules disciplining Plaxico Burress for missing two straight days of practice even if it was due to a personal family matter. The wideout still should’ve communicated better this way he wouldn’t be fined and have to sit out next week’s home game versus Seattle. However, there aren’t any excuses and no exceptions under Coach Coughlin which is why I believe this team can repeat. They get it!
-Someone might want to tell Jerry Jones that this isn’t the 50’s anymore when he last played organized football. He doesn’t belong on the sideline.
-Boomer and Carton are a fun listen on WFAN in the morning because they work well and have solid chemistry. Listening to them rant over the Mets’ latest disappointment was good radio. Loved Carton’s nickname for Wright for failing to deliver in the clutch: “D-Rod.” A reference to Alex Rodriguez.
-I feel bad for diehard Met fans like Steve Somers, Tony Paige, Evan Roberts and Joe Benigno, who live and die with their team all year long. You can feel the emotion and terrible bitterness in their voices. Particularly Somers, who last week coming back from a great Weezer concert sounded heartbroken over a costly extra inning defeat to the Cubs. You could really tell how badly he wanted to see them get in and reverse last year.
They all did and showed so much. Maybe if the Mets had played with as much energy as they brought to the WFAN airwaves, they wouldn’t be sitting home instead getting ready for Lou Piniella’s Cubs. They might get paid to talk sports but they wear the Mets’ logo as a badge of honor as did outstanding play-by-play man Howie Rose.
Nobody ever likes to get their hearts broken. Especially by their favorite sports team which is what can make following sports so crazy. One minute, you’re as high as the sky and the next you feel like burying yourself under the sand.
It’s the real diehards who never abandon ship who shall always get my sorrows. Cause it takes a lot sometimes to stay with a team that constantly gives you heartache.
Brett Favreis no longer the quarterback of the Green Bay Packers. The 38 year-old future Hall of Famer was traded to the New York Jets for a conditional 2009 draft pick.
It was first reported by both ESPN and Fox Sports just after midnight on the East coast.
“We just felt like this was an opportunity to go get somebody of Brett’s stature and what he’s accomplished,” Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum said during a conference call earlier this morning.
“We felt it was in the best interest of the team and when the opportunity presented itself, we felt it was the right move for us to make and we went ahead and did it.”
When it became apparent Favre would not be the man in Green Bay with the Packers opting to hand the reigns over to Aaron Rodgers, the Jets and Bucs were the final two teams in the running to land the NFL’s all-time leader in throwing touchdowns (442). Tampa dropped out making Gang Green’s destiny of landing the former Southern Miss star likely.
Favre was originally selected by the Falcons in the second round of the 1991 Draft. He only played in two games going 0-for-5 with two picks and a sack before Atlanta dealt him during the offseason to Green Bay for the 19th pick in the 1992 Draft in which they ironically selected another Southern Miss star Tony Smith, who lasted only three seasons. Perhaps that explains the Falcons legacy.
After becoming the starter with his new team, Favre went onto a brilliant career spending the next 16 years as arguably the best quarterback in the game leading the Packers back to the NFL’s elite winning Super Bowl XXXI over New England and losing to John Elway and Denver in Super Bowl XXXII. He is the only three-time AP MVP (1995-97) in league history.
Not only does Favre hold the NFL record for most TD’s thrown but most career passing yards (61,655), most career completions (5,377), attempts (8,758) and interceptions (288). He also holds the record for most consecutive starts among NFL QBs with 253 straight including 275 with playoffs. Not surprisingly, he also owns the most ever victories (160) for a starting signal caller.
Now, Brett will get the opportunity to turn around a Jets team which went just 4-12 a year ago as both Chad Pennington and Kellen Clemens struggled. Before he decided to unretire getting league approval for reinstatement, the original plan was for the two QBs to battle it out in camp and preseason to see who would win the starting job.
Instead, the Jets will reportedly release the classy Pennington later today who twice cameback from rotator cuff surgery battling injuries during a respectable eight-year career finishing with 82 TDs and 55 Ints while tossing for 13,738 yards.
“It’s a bittersweet moment for us,” Tannenbaum pointed out. “I have all the respect in the world for Chad as a person, as a player. We’ve accomplished a lot of good things with Chad … He gave his heart and soul to this organization for a long, long time. I really appreciate everything he’s done.”
For his team, it’s the right move which of course comes with a lot of expectations. The pressure to win now while sacrificing the team’s future.
A high risk investment for a veteran QB who never seems to know whether he’s coming or going.
We doubt Jet fans will care. Today’s their day to celebrate arguably the franchise’s biggest acquisition.
Jeremy Shockey’sdays as a New York Giant are officially over. The 27 year-old disgruntled tight end who asked the team to trade him following their Super Bowl upset of New England finally got his wish.
The former Giants’ 2002 first round pick was dealt to the Saints for a second round and fifth round pick in 2009. In six seasons, Shockey was a four-time Pro Bowl selection finishing his Big Blue career with 371 receptions totaling 4,228 yards and 27 touchdowns.
Though he was one of the better tight ends in the NFL, the former University of Miami Hurricane star was often outspoken which could sometimes be a detriment to the team. When he broke his leg late last year missing the final two regular season games along with the entire postseason which saw the Giants stun the world by winning their third Lombardi Trophy, it frustrated Shockey that he couldn’t be on the sidelines in Arizona cheering on his teammates.
With critics saying the team won without him and didn’t need him due to the emergence of rookie Kevin Boss, he not surprisingly asked for a trade. New Orleans had been the rumored destination since the NFL Draft. Now that it’s come to pass, he looks forward to helping his new NFC team.
“I have had a relationship with coach [Sean] Payton and I appreciate what he has done as a head coach,” Shockey expressed to the AP via a statement released by the Saints. “The Saints have a lot of weapons starting with Drew Brees and I look forward to joining my teammates at training camp. This will be a fun year.”
For the Giants, they unloaded the remainder of Shockey’s five-year $31.2 million contract signed in 2005. Now, it’s one less headache heading into camp with the defense of their title.
“Jeremy brought great energy to the game every time he stepped on the field,” Giants team president John Mara stated. “He had a close relationship with my father from the time we drafted him, and I had a couple of long conversations with Jeremy this spring and summer. From those conversations, it was apparent to me that a fresh start was the best thing for us and for Jeremy.”
