Week 17 Picks

Eli Manning needs to lead the Giants to a victory against the Cowboys this week.

Happy New Year everybody! As we welcome in 2012, the NFL enters its last week of regular season play. All of the games will be played on Sunday. And now, the last picks of the 2011 season! 

Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers 

Normally, the Lions would be out of the playoffs, and playing for solely pride. This year, the Lions are playing in a true rivalry with the Packers. The Packers are no longer undefeated. These teams can rest their starters, but each knows this game is important. The Lions will try to beat the Packers after losing 27-15 in Week 12. As great as the Lions have played this season, it will be extremely unlikely. 

Packers over Lions 

Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans 

This is a must win game for the Titans. If the Titans win, they have a chance of being in the playoffs. However, the Titans face AFC South rival Texans. The Texans allow just 17 points per game. The Titans will try to intercept as many of rookie T.J. Yates’ passes as they can. This could be difficult. It could be difficult for the Titans to make the playoffs as well. Texans over Titans 

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars 

The Colts are hot. Two wins in a row, and Peyton Manning still hasn’t played a down. Dan Orlovsky has led the Colts after taking the place of the injured Curtis Painter. The Jaguars have not had the best season either. In Week 10, the Jaguars beat the Colts 17-3. That Colts team was 0-10, and had no hope. In stepped Orlovsky, who has taken this team in a new direction. The Colts should end the season on a three game win streak.

Colts over Jaguars 

New York Jets at Miami Dolphins 

The Jets need to win this week. The Jets were expected to unseat the Patriots this season, but could not. Now, against the struggling Dolphins, the team must win to reach the wildcard round. The Dolphins have been disappointing as well. Don’t expect them to beat Rex Ryan’s Jets. They will be playing their hearts out. On both offense and defense. 

Jets over Dolphins 

Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings 

With Adrian Peterson on injured reserve, there will be an even bigger obstacle for the Vikings. The Vikings now have an even dimmer opportunity to beat the Bears, who are without quarterback Jay Cutler. The Bears will look back on the season that wasn’t. The Bears will be happy to end their five game losing streak, though. Bears over Vikings 

New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills 

The Pats will try to achieve home field advantage in the playoffs by beating the Bills. The Bills beat the Patriots this season, 34-31. Since that victory, the Bills’ playoff hopes have vanished. They have gone 3-9 since that victory. The Patriots have 10-2, and have cruised to a number one seed. The Patriots will beat the Bills, and receive home field advantage. 

Patriots over Bills 

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints 

Cam Newton will end his fantastic rookie season against the Saints. Newton threw for 224 yards and two touchdowns. The Panthers lost because of a Drew Brees touchdown with 0:50 left on the clock. Brees broke Dan Marino’s single season record for passing yards last week. The Saints could clinch a first round bye, with this victory and a 49ers loss. Sean Payton wants that bye. 

Saints over Panthers 

Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles 

One more game. One more game, and the Eagles’ nightmare of a season comes to an end against the lowly Redskins. The Eagles, with their countless free agent signings, will miss the playoffs. The Redskins who were unable to find a consistent quarterback, will miss the playoffs as well. The Eagles should beat the Redskins, and reach a .500 record to end this nightmare. 

Eagles over Redskins 

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams 

What can Harbaugh do for you? Jim Harbaugh has come to the 49ers and has completely remade the team. If the 49ers beat the Rams tomorrow, the 49ers will clinch a first round bye. It will be Alex Smith’s first playoff appearance. The Rams are hoping the Draft lottery will come in their favor. If it does, they will draft Andrew Luck. What will happen to Sam Bradford? Good question. 

49ers over Rams 

Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals 

Apparently, the Cardinals needed rest. Since their bye week, the Cardinals have gone 6-4, compared to 1-4 before it. The Seahawks have gone 5-5 since their bye week. These two teams are playing for .500 records, and for second place in the NFC West. The Seahawks won the first meeting, but expect this game to be closer. Still, Marshawn Lynch could take advantage of the 120 rushing yards allowed by the Cardinals defense. 

Seahawks over Cardinals 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons 

Yikes! The Bucs have lost nine games in a row. Yes, nine games in a row. Don’t expect that streak to end against the Falcons. The Falcons have clinched the playoffs, led by quarterback Matt Ryan. The Buccaneers still have a chance though. They beat the Falcons 16-13 this season. The win against the Falcons was one of their four wins. The Falcons have learned from that loss, and at home, should be tough to beat. 

Falcons over Buccaneers 

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals 

Andy Dalton has led the Bengals to a 9-6 record thus far. If he leads the Bengals to a win over the Ravens, he and his squad could be in the playoffs for the first time since the Carson Palmer injury. The Ravens could clinch a first round bye, with another victory over their division rival. The Bengals should upset the Ravens to sneak into the wildcard round. Bengals over Ravens 

Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns 

The Browns are in the middle of a five game losing streak. With Seneca Wallace starting, the prospects of a win are even dimmer. The Steelers could clinch a first round bye with a win and a Ravens loss. The Browns are hoping for some luck in beating the Steelers, but that won’t happen. 

Steelers over Browns 

Kanas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos 

The Chiefs. The only team to beat the Packers, aren't even in the playoffs. The Denver Broncos, were having some luck with Tim Tebow. Then came the Patriots. The Patriots demolished Tebow and the rest of the Broncos team, 41-23. The Broncos can clinch the AFC West with a win. The Broncos should continue riding the luck of Tebow to cruise to a  victory over the Chiefs. 

Broncos over Chiefs 

San Diego Chargers at Oakland Raiders 

This is a must win game for the Raiders. If the Raiders are able to win, they have a better chance of making the playoffs. The Chargers have had an extremely disappointing season. If they lose this game, they will finish the season below .500. Led by Carson Palmer, the Raiders have turned it around this season. An 8-8 season will be a failure. 

Raiders over Chargers 

Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants

With Tony Romo questionable, the Cowboys are forced to turn to Stephen McGee.

Winner takes all. Whoever wins this game will go to the playoffs as the NFC East champion. Loser goes home. The last meeting was a victory by the Giants because of a blocked field goal. The Cowboys may have some trouble, as quarterback Tony Romo is questionable. With Stephen McGee starting, the Giants should take full advantage. Better luck next year Cowboys! 

Giants over Cowboys 

Projected NBA Awards

Kevin Durant will win another scoring title and his first MVP award this season

MVP: Kevin Durant, OKC

The Durantula is a scoring machine. This year he will win his third consecutive scoring title and the first MVP award of his career. Expect Durant to average at least 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. The shortened season benefits the Durantula a lot. Because the season is shortened, he will be able to play more minutes.  Durant will lead OKC to a deep playoff run as well. 

Runner up: LeBron James MIA

Rookie of the Year: Derrick Williams, MIN

The younger D-Will, is playing on a young, rapidly improving Timberwolves squad. With Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio to help him, he should score plenty points and grab boards. Williams will be a factor in whatever the Timberwolves do this season. He will attempt to help the team reach the playoffs for the first time since Kevin Garnett has left the team. This goal is in reach with Williams playing the 4 position. 

Runner up: Jimmer Fredette, SAC 

Coach of the Year: Mike D’Antoni, NYK

Mike D’Antoni will try his best to lead the Knicks to their second consecutive playoff appearance.Tyson Chandler has joined the Knicks, who now have their own Big Three. D’Antoni has the potential to rejuvenate the Knicks franchise. 

Runner up: Frank Vogel, IND

6th Man of the Year: Jason Terry, DAL

Jason Terry had a fantastic postseason off the bench last year for Dallas. He should score at least 15 points off the bench in insurance for the newly acquired Vince Carter. Terry has embraced his role as a sixth man, and scored plenty points. He should do more of the same this season.

Runner up: Udonis Haslem, MIA 

Most Improved Player: Joakim Noah, CHI 

Whatever happened to Joakim Noah? Do you remember him, the guy who stayed for four years in college and won two championships? Well this year, Noah is going to have his breakout season. Each year since he has come to the NBA, his scoring has gone up. The rebounds have also gone up, though Noah took a small dip in boards last season. This year, if the Bulls continue to put the pieces together, which they did by signing two guard Rip Hamilton, Noah could average a 16-10. Noah is the Bulls’ starting center, and primary rebounder. With the Bulls continuing to get better, expect Noah to finally break out this season, and demonstrate why the Bulls drafted him in 

Runner up: Danilo Gallinari, DEN

Defensive Player of the Year: Andrew Bogut, MIL 

If there is an NBA player for which the lockout benefits it could be Andrew Bogut. Bogut has played 70 games just twice in his career. His best year came when he played 69 games. Imagine what he can do in 66? Bogut led the NBA in blocks per game last season, and averaged eight defensive rebounds. If Bogut is able to play a full season, he will get more rebounds, and crash the glass

Runner up: Serge Ibaka OKC 

All NBA Team 

C Dwight Howard ORL

PF Lebron James MIA

SF Kevin Durant OKC

SG Kobe Bryant LAL 

PG Derrick Rose CHI

NBA 2011-2012 Preview

Kobe Bryant and the Lakers will win the 2011-12 NBA Championship.

Derrick Rose will lead his Bulls squad to the finals.

Predicted Order of Finish

Western Conference

1. Oklahoma City Thunder (Northwest)

2. Dallas Mavericks (Southwest)

3. Los Angeles Lakers (Pacific)

4. Los Angeles Clippers  (Pacific)

5. Memphis Grizzlies (Southwest)

6. Denver Nuggets (Northwest) 

7. San Antonio Spurs (Southwest)

8. Portland Trail Blazers (Northwest)

9. Utah Jazz (Northwest)

10. Houston Rockets (Southwest)

11. Phoenix Suns (Pacific)

12. Golden State Warriors (Pacific)

13. Sacramento Kings (Pacific)

14. Minnesota Timberwolves (Northwest)

15. New Orleans Hornets (Southwest)

Eastern Conference

1. Chicago Bulls (Central)

2. Miami Heat (Southeast)

3. New York Knicks (Atlantic) 

4. Orlando Magic (Southeast)

5. Indiana Pacers (Central)

6. Atlanta Hawks (Southeast)

7. Boston Celtics (Atlantic)

8. Philadelphia 76ers (Atlantic)

9. Milwaukee Bucks (Central)

10. Washington Wizards (Southeast)

11. New Jersey Nets (Atlantic)

12. Charlotte Bobcats (Southeast)

13. Detroit Pistons (Central)

14. Cleveland Cavaliers (Central)

15. Toronto Raptors (Atlantic)

(See below for playoff results)

After 149 days, the NBA finally returned to work. The players had to deal with abbreviated training camps, and less time for free agent signing and trades.  But now it’s time for Amazing to Happen. The Big Three, Kobe, the Durantula, CP3, Blake the Snake, Dirk, Amare, and more. The NBA is back. 

What happened during the free agency and trading period? Chris Paul almost went to the Lakers. Dwight Howard stayed in Orlando, Tyson Chandler is now a New York Knick, Lamar Odom and his wife Khloe moved to Dallas. The most surprising move however, was the trade of Chris Paul. Chris Paul was traded from the New Orleans Hornets to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Eric Gordon, Chris Kaman, Al-Farouq Aminu, and a first round pick. The Clippers also added veteran guard Chauncey Billups. (you can read more about the Clippers’ acquisition of Chris Paul here.)

Kyrie Irving, Derrick Williams, Jimmer Fredette, and Ricky Rubio joined their respective teams during the lockout. After a reduced preseason, which of the rookies from this year’s will stand out from the others? Will it be number one overall pick Irving? Irving will try his best to usher in a new era in Cleveland. Or, will it be Derrick Williams? Williams, who with the support of Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love, will help the T-Wolves reach the playoffs for the first time since K-G left. Or, will it be Jimmer? Fredette, who was traded from the Bucks to the Kings, is expected to score numerous points off the bench for the Kings.

Playoffs: 

Western Conference Finals                                           Eastern Conference Finals

Lakers beat Thunder 4-3                                                Bulls beat Knicks 4-1

                                                                       Finals: 

                                                                      Lakers beat Bulls 4-2

                                                         

In a rematch of the 1990-1991 NBA finals, the Bulls and Lakers will battle it out. This time however, the Bulls will not have Phil Jackson or Michael Jordan. Derrick Rose has played just 28 career playoff games, while Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant, has played in 208 postseason games. Experience always rules in the postseason. Rose and the rest of his team will take lessons from Kobe, and fight for a title next season. The Lakers should take this season as a “last hurrah” and will fight to win one last championship. Who knows when they will have an opportunity to play for another one? 

2011 in Sports

Aaron Rodgers led the Packers to the Lombardi trophy in 2011.

2011. The year that “The Big Three” was beaten. The year the Packers brought the Lombardi trophy back home The year Albert Pujols won another world series with the Cardinals… then went to the Angels. The year that Cam Newton won the Heisman. The year that the U.S women’s team lost in the World Cup Finals.

2011. The year that Jerry Sandusky, Bernie Fine, and countless others were convicted of sexual abuse. The year that Ohio State University was given a bowl ban, and the loss of numerous scholarships.  The year that fans of the Vancouver Canucks rioted It was also the year of multiple lockouts. The NFL missed training camp, while the NBA is starting its season on Christmas. 

It was  a year of guaranteed titles during the preseason. These such guarantees came from LeBron James, of the Miami Heat, and Vince Young from the Philadelphia Eagles. The Heat lost in the NBA finals, 4-2 to the Dallas Mavericks. Though the NFL is still going on, the Eagles have an extremely slim chance of making the playoffs. 

It was also a year of unexpected championships. The Green Bay Packers became the first number six seed in the NFC to make it to the Superbowl, and then proceeded to beat the Steelers. The aging Dallas Mavericks, led by fiery owner Mark Cuban, managed to beat the Miami Heat. The St. Louis Cardinals surprised everyone to win yet another World Series. 

Abby Wambach led the U.S women to a second place finish in the World Cup. 

Then there was the Women’s Soccer World Cup. Led by Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan, and Hope Solo, the U.S reached the World Cup Finals against Japan. It was the first time the U.S women reached the World Cup Finals since 1999. That 1999 team was led by Mia Hamm and Michelle Akers. After 90 minutes of play, the score was tied 1-1. The game went into extra time. 30 minutes later, each side had scored another goal. The game then extended to penalties, in which the Japanese side scored three penalties, to the United States’ one. 

This past year in sports was a peculiar year. There were sex abuse scandals, there were the NBA and NFL lockouts. Through all of this however, Aaron Rodgers finally broke free of Brett Farve’s shadow. Dirk Nowitzki won his first title, and demonstrated that super teams don’t always win titles. The Texas Rangers were present in the World Series again. And lost. Again. Kemba Walker and his UConn team marched through March Madness, and beat Butler 53-47. Butler, like the Texas Rangers reached the National Championship once more. Also like Texas, Butler lost twice on the big stage.

Lockouts and sex abuse. Both the NFL and the NBA closed their doors to  players for an extended period of time in 2011. Jerry Sandusky, Bernie Fine, and (Chicago area basketball coach) Robert Mueller were all convicted of sexually abusing children this past year. Their actions sets a standard for  relationships between players and coaches. Anything a coach does will be watched.

Despite all of the horrible actions that occurred, good things happened in sports too! The U.S. Women put Women’s soccer on the map, David Beckham, Landon Donavan, and the Galaxy won the MLS title, the team’s first since the arrival of David Beckham. The Boston Bruins won their first championship since 1972. 

After 2011, who knows what to expect in 2012? Will LeBron finally win a title? Will “The Great Pujols” lead the Angels to a championship? Will USC, after their bowl ban is over, win the BCS championship? Will Peyton Manning come back from a neck injury? Will there be anymore scandals in college sports? No one knows. No one can tell what will happen.

Top Athletes of 2011: 

Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks

Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers 

Abby Wambach, U.S.A Women’s Soccer Team

Tim Thomas, Boston Bruins

David Freese, St. Louis Cardinals

Week 15 Picks: Last Week 12-2

Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills

The Bills after a promising start, can’t seem to find the win column.  The Bills have a problem. The team thought that they were playoff bound, but unfortunately, the rebuilding process will continue. The Dolphins aren’t much better. After Chad Henne was injured, the team has had some difficulty. The team has had some good victories, beating the Raiders 34-14. Add another victory for the team in this game. 

Dolphins over Bills 

Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears 

Marshawn Lynch has been on a tear lately. Against the struggling Bears, Lynch should lead his team to victory. However, the Bears’ rushing defense has been solid, which could lessen Lynch's carries.  The Bears rushing defense, allows only 101 yards per game. Caleb Hanie hasn’t exactly been a Jay Cutler, spiraling his team into a three game losing streak. Make it four games. 

Seahawks over Bears 

Carolina Panthers at Houston Texans 

The Texans, have clinched the organization’s first playoff spot ever, will most likely "take it easy" against the Panthers. This game, has virtually no meaning to the Texans. To the Panthers it does. Cam Newton and the rest of his team will battle hard. Maybe next year Cam. Maybe next year. 

Texans over Panthers 

Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts 

Chris Johnson, get prepared for your breakout game. Chris Johnson fantasy owners. Get prepared to win your league. Tennessee Titans, get ready for a win. Indianapolis Colts, have fun losing yet another game. Titans over Colts 

Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs 

The Packers will continue to try to become the first undefeated team since the Dolphins… Or since the Patriots. Depends how you look at it. Anyway, the Packers will add on another victory, and inch closer to perfection. Aaron Rodgers will demonstrate his fantastic passing skills against a team that allows 23 points per game. Have fun Aaron! Packers over Chiefs 

New Orleans Saints at Minnesota Vikings 

AP could be back! Not that it will make much of a difference against the Saints. Drew Brees is having yet another  MVP caliber year, and against the Vikings treacherous defense, which allows 28 points per game, expect Brees to throw four TD’s. Vikings are in a five game losing streak, and are having an extremely disappointing year. It will come to an end soon. Saints over Vikings 

Washington Redskins at New York Giants 

The Redskins are the one team in the NFC East that is worse than the Eagles. And why is that? Well, when your quarterback at one point is Rex Grossman, you have a problem. Eli Manning is having a career year for the Giants, who will beat the Giants' division rival. Giants over Redskins

Cincinnati Bengals at St. Louis Rams 

The Cincinnati Bengals. One of the most surprising teams in the NFL this season. The Bengals have been struggling recently though, but are still pushing for a playoff spot in the extremely difficult AFC North. The Rams. What is there to say? The team has just won twice. It will stay that way.  
Bengals over Rams 

Detroit Lions at Oakland Raiders 

The Lions, another one of the more surprising teams in the NFL this year, visit the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders have been completely rebuilt under new coach Hue Jackson. Thus far, Jackson has led his team to a 7-6 record. Unfortunately, Stafford should handle the Raiders’ defense, which allows 230 passing yards per game. Stafford should be able to connect with Megatron countless times. Lions over Raiders 

Cleveland Browns at Arizona Cardinals 

The Cardinals have been steadily improving, winning three games in a row. With Kevin Kolb starting, the Cardinals should beat the struggling Browns. The Browns have lost three in a row, and Colt McCoy, who was manhandled by James Harrison last week, is questionable. The Cardinals should continue the team’s surge. Cardinals over Browns 

New England Patriots at Denver Broncos 

One of the most exciting games this week. Tim Tebow for the first time this season, faces an elite quarterback, Tom Brady. The Broncos have lost just once when Tebow has started. The Patriots have lost just three times this year, when Tom Brady has started. Prayer might not help Tebow in this game, as Brady will be expected to throw 250+ yards. The Patriots will have to keep the Broncos from scoring in the fourth quarter, which is how most of the Broncos' victories have occurred. Sorry Tim, but skill will almost  always triumph over prayer. 

Patriots over Broncos 

New York Jets at Philadelphia Eagles 

Darrelle Revis and the Jets defense take on LeSean McCoy and the Eagles offense. The Eagles, or the so called "Dream Team" has turned into a "Nightmare Team" instead. The Eagles are three games under .500, and Andy Reid is striving to get to that prestigious mark to save his job. The Jets are in the team’s usual position, second place in the AFC East, behind the Pats. The Jets should triumph in this matchup. The Jets score 25 points to the Eagles 22. Scoring is always the difference. Jets over Eagles 

Baltimore Ravens at San Diego Chargers 

The all-star Ravens defense visit San Diego. The Chargers, for the first time in recent seasons, started off the year solid. Currently, the team is under the.500. The Ravens, have won four games in a row, and look unstoppable. The Chargers are being led by Phil Rivers, who has been a bit disappointing this year, who is in charge of beating the Ravens defense. Not gonna happen. Ravens over Chargers 

Pittsburgh Steelers at San Francisco 49ers 

The 49ers have qualified for the playoffs for the first time in a few years. The Steelers are going to try to clinch this week. Tied with the Ravens for first in the AFC North, this game has meaning to the Steelers. The 49ers are already in the playoffs, so as a result, this game does not have as much meaning to them. The Steelers are gonna play their hearts out, which will result in victory. 

Steelers over 49ers 

How Chris Paul Affects Both the Clippers and Lakers

Chris Paul has come to one of the most famous cities in the world. He gets a chance to play in one of the most prestigious arenas in the NBA. However, he’s not suiting up for the purple and gold. Instead, he’s suiting up for the Red and Blue. Instead of going to the famous LA Lakers, CP3 is coming to ball with Blake the Snake. 

Chris Paul should have been on the Lakers. Paul and Kobe should have been in the same backcourt. The NBA disallowed the trade. Blame David Stern, blame the Hornets, doesn’t matter. What matters is that Paul will join a backcourt with the aging Chauncey Billups at the two guard, and Mo Williams to back him up.  Eric Gordon, Chris Kaman, and Al-Farouq Aminu were packaged to N’awlins to complete the trade. The signing of Paul excites a Clippers fan base that has endured countless terrible seasons and players. 

Is Chris Paul the missing piece that the Clippers needed? Will he lead them to the play-offs? Will he start a Clipshow dynasty? Will he make the Clippers the talk of the town? He just might. He just might. If B-Griff is ever having an off night, CP3 can score at will. If CP3 isn’t scoring, then Blake can dunk on the opposition. If they are both missing shots, another new acquisition, Caron Butler, can score as well. 

The main question about Paul is, can his new team dethrone the Lakeshow? Sadly Laker fans, it could be  possible. The Clippers have a solid playmaker now, who is going to play alongside a guy who can jump over a car. If Blake Griffin can continue his stellar scoring and rebounding, to go along with the veteran leadership of Caron Butler, the Lakers could be in trouble. That being said, the Lakers still have the necessary  experience in the postseason. 

The Clippers traded away the one remaining player from the team’s last playoff appearance, Chris Kaman. Chauncey Billups, Mo Williams, as well as Chris Paul, were all brought in to playoff experience to the team. Those three players will attempt to lead the Clippers back into the postseason for the first time since the ’05-06 season. The only player on the roster who has won a championship, is the aging Billups. The Lakers have Kobe, Fish, Pau, Metta World Peace, and even Luke Walton, who all have won championships. 

Everything is against Paul. The “Clippers Curse” is destined for him. Will he get injured before he plays in a game, like Blake Griffin? Or will his stats take a steep decline? Fortunately for the loyal Clippers fans, Paul is healthy and as far as we know, excited to play in LA. 

No. The Clippers will not dethrone the Lakers for the top team in Los Angeles. The Clippers will however, make a giant improvement with in the win column, and will contend for a play-off spot. Will Chris Paul be hit with the Lakers curse? Unlikely. Will CP3 and Blake the Snake lead the other Los Angeles team to a championship? Unlikelier. Will Donald Sterling lead the Clippers out of the Doldrums? Keep on Dreamin’.

Week 14 Picks: Last Week 11-4

New England Patriots at Washington Redskins

The Patriots' offense have been rolling of late, though the defense has been a problem. It almost cost the Pats a victory last week. The Redskins still have quarterback troubles, that are still unsolved. The Patriots should beat the Skins in this one. Shanahan will have more work to do next year. 
Patriots over Redskins 

Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens 

The Colts almost won. Coming back from a 31-3 deficit, to lose 31-24 to the team’s big time rival, the Patriots. Unfortunately, almost only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. Not in football. The Colts still have not won this season, though there has been close games. Sadly, the losing streak won’t end in Baltimore. Ray Rice has scored 3 touchdowns in his last three games, and against the terrible Colts rushing defense, he should add more TD’s. 

Ravens over Colts 

Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers 

This is the first meeting this season between these two NFC South rivals. Each of these teams have young, all-star quarterbacks. Unfortunately, for the Panthers, Cam Newton has struggled to find any receivers to compliment Steve Smith. Matt Ryan has had plenty of receivers to choose from. Michael Turner, Julio Jones, and Roddy White. The variety of receivers will be the difference in this matchup. Falcons over Panthers 

Houston Texans at Cincinnati Bengals 

Even with T.J. Yates playing quarterback, the Texans found out a way to beat the Falcons last week. He could have a tough time this week. The Bengals are allowing a modest 20 points per game. The team allows less passing yards per game then the Falcons did, 210 compared to 239. Andy Dalton will have an extremely difficult time against the terrific Texans defense, which is only allowing 16 points per game. If he could do it against the Falcons, then Yates should be able to upset the Bengals, and reassure his place in the NFL. Texans over Bengals 

Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions 

With AP questionable, the Vikings have to add yet another thing to a list of things to worry about. The Vikings have struggled a lot this season. The team has lost four in a row, and will most likely extend to five in a row. The Lions are also in a losing streak, but it will come to an end on Sunday. After what Tebow did to the Vikings last week, expect Stafford to throw 350 yards. Lions over Vikings 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Jacksonville Jaguars 

Josh Freeman is expected to play for the Bucs, who after a win over the Saints in Week 6, have failed to win a game. This is Freeman’s chance to end his team’s losing streak. LeGarrette Blount will contribute as much he can to the cause as well. The Jaguars offense is terrible, only scoring 13 points per game. Maurice Jones-Drew will try all he can. But when you score only 13 points, you can't expect to win many games. Buccaneers over Jaguars 

Philadelphia Eagles at Miami Dolphins 

The Eagles’ dreams are just about gone. Vince Young’s proclamation now looks stupid. Vick and the rest of his squad will try to beat the Dolphins. The Dolphins demolished the Raiders 34-7 last week. The Dolphins have been doing well in the past five games, losing just once. Still, LeSean McCoy could run his team to a much needed victory. Unfortunately for him, the Dolphins defense only allows 18 points. Wait ‘till next year Eagles fans. Dolphins over Eagles 

Kansas City Chiefs at New York Jets 

The Chiefs have gone from an 0-3 team, to a 4-3 team, and now currently to a 5-7 record. The team lost its two main skill players, Matt Cassel and Jamaal Charles to injuries. Tyler Palko has gone 1-2 in his games this season. The Jets have won two games in a row, and are pushing for an AFC wildcard spot. The Jets defense has been solid this season, but not as good as it has been in previous years. The Jets don’t have much to worry about. The Chiefs only score 13 points per game. Jets over Chiefs

New Orleans Saints at Tennessee Titans 

Drew Brees is on the verge of beating Dan Marino’s single season passing yard record. Brees only needs 1,053 yards to beat Marino’s record. If you checked your math right, if Brees averages 262.3 yards per game he should break that record by the end of the season. The Titans, don’t have much to show for at the “Q”. At the running back, Chris Johnson is finally starting to break out of his shell, with two straight 100+ yard games. The Saints allow 114 yards rushing per game and 22 points. Johnson could have a tough time. Saints over Titans 

San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals

For the second week in a row, the 49ers take on a pathetic division rival. The Cardinals should be even easier than the Rams were last week. Alex Smith and Frank Gore should score plenty on a team that allows 22 points each game, and 250 passing yards.  Kevin Kolb still hasn’t panned out to be the player that the Cardinals envisioned when he was signed this offseason. Maybe Beanie Wells will have some magic. 49ers over Rams 

Chicago Bears at Denver Broncos 

Forte and Cutler are out, what’s there to look forward to in this game for the Bears? The Chicago Bears get to see Tebow Tebowing! Other than that, not much else exciting is likely to happen to the Bears. Tebow continues to lead the Broncos on a winning path, extending the team’s winning streak to five games last week, and is trying to help the Broncos make a late play-off push.  Make it six games in a row after this week. Broncos over Bears 

Oakland Raiders at Green Bay Packers

The Raiders were demolished last week against Miami. It will be extremely hard for a team that allows 25 points per game to beat the Packers. Aaron Rodgers has a full slate of receivers to catch the ball, and looks unstoppable this year. The Packers will win this game, to be 13-0. Three games closer to perfection. Six games away from the Superbowl. Packers over Raiders 

Buffalo Bills at San Diego Chargers 

The Chargers are one of, if not the most disappointing teams this season. Phil Rivers & Co. somehow managed to get a victory last week. The Bills started out as one of the more surprising teams, but have lost five in a row recently. Both of these teams are struggling this year, and it will come down to the performance of the quarterback. In this case, Rivers should lead his team to victory.  Chargers over Bills 

St. Louis Rams at Seattle Seahawks 

Another pathetic NFC West division game. Marshawn Lynch is carrying the ball so well, that Tarvaris Jackson shouldn’t have to pass. Against the Rams atrocious run defense, Jackson may even have a chance to run the ball. The Seahawks are allowing 20 points per game, while the Rams are allowing 24. As bad as the Seahawks have been this season, the Rams have been worse. Much worse.  The Rams for some Kurt Warner-like figure to come back and play quarterback. Not gonna happen. 
Seahawks over Rams 

Why the Lakers Will Win the 2011-12 NBA Championship

No that’s not a typo. The Lakers are going to win the NBA championship. I’m not just saying that because I am Laker fan, it is true. Look at the Lakers’ team. Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Andrew Bynum, Metta World Peace. That lineup can win and has won a title. Plus, the lineup includes one of the men who saved the NBA, Derek Fisher . 

How can a team whose best players are all over 30 win a championship? Look which team won it last year. Look which team beat the Lakers last year in the play-offs, the Mavericks. The Mavs’ best player was 33. Kobe’s the same age this year. If Dirk can do it, Kobe can too! 

In addition, the Lakers are getting a fresh start. Phil Jackson is retired, he’s done. In steps former Cavaliers coach Mike Brown . Besides Brown, there are plenty of other new assistants. Brown is determined to win his first championship, something he could not do with LeBron. . Brown lost in the ’07 finals to the Spurs. Who was the best player on that Spurs team? A 31 year old center named Tim Duncan. 

Another advantage for the Lakers is the lockout. Because of the lockout there is a shortened season. As stated before, the Lakers’ team is not the youngest.  The players could get fatigued, and become injured. Fatigue and injuries is how the lockout is benefical. Since there is a shortened season, the Lakers’ starters can get extended minutes, since the players are only playing 66 games. 66 games? That’s how many games Kobe plays when he’s injured! Imagine 66 games, full strength. The Lakers will have more time to rest, and recuperate. Because they will have so much rest, Kobe and Pau will be unstoppable! 

How can Kobe and Pau beat the Durantula and Russell Westbrook? These two teams are really different. The Thunder is young and raw, while the Lakeshow is “a bunch of old geezers”.  How can the Lakers beat a young and raw team like that? It’s simple. Experience. How many players on the Thunder have been past the conference semifinals? Get rid of recent trade acquisition Kendrick Perkins, and their is no one. Zero, Zilch. How many Lakers have won a championship? The entire starting five. Kobe, Pau, Odom, Fish, and if you count an injured Bynum, have all won multiple championships.

This is most likely the Lakers’ last year as a dynasty. There are other up and coming teams in the western conference that can easily win the championship in the next few years. The Lakers are destined to win the championship this year. They have all the right pieces. A core group of players, an encouraging coach, and lots of play-off experience.Finally, in the coming weeks, the Lakers could be getting Chris Paul and Dwight Howard to form a new “Big 3”.  Kobe and those two guys, and a shortened season. A match made in Heaven.  

Week 13 Game of the Week

Green Bay Packers at New York Giants 

Aaron Rodgers. 3,475 passing yards and 33 touchdowns. Eli Manning. 3,358 passing yards and 20 touchdowns. Green Bay Packers. Defending Superbowl champs, 11-0 this season. New York Giants. 6-5. In second place in the NFC East, and in the midst of a three game losing streak. Who will win a game including two of the best quarterbacks?

Packers Offense: 

The Packers’ offense starts and ends with Rodgers. Rodgers is leading an attack which is putting  up 34 points every game. Rodgers is throwing to Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Donald Driver, James Jones, and Jermichael Finley. Jennings and Nelson combined have 17 of Rodgers’ 33 touchdowns. The Packers have been having to rely on the passing attack because James Starks and Ryan Grant have had some trouble getting the job done. The two have just scored one touchdown. Combined Despite trouble with rushing, Rodgers is an all-pro quarterback. He has carried the team to 11 wins already, he should be okay. 

Giants Offense: 

Eli Manning is having a great season for the Giants. He has carried the team to a winning record. He hasn’t had much help in the rushing game, which has been a problem. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs have struggled this year for the Giants. The two backs have managed to however, score nine touchdowns.  The Giants have been averaging almost 23 points per game. Victor Cruz is having a great sophomore campaign at wide receiver, and should be with the Giants for years to come. 

Edge: Packers 

Packers Defense: 

The Packers are allowing 20 points per game. 20 points may seem like a lot, but when you’re scoring 34, it doesn’t really mean anything. The Packers are solid on the rushing defense, allowing 105 yards per game. On the passing side, the team has a problem. Only the Patriots allow more yards more per game. The Packers might have some trouble some against such a good quarterback in Manning. 

Giants Defense: 

Opponents are scoring 25 points on average against the Giants. 25 points is a lot of points. The Giants have not played the league’s most potent offense yet, however. The Packers will throw numerous passes, which could be a problem. The Giants allow 250 passing yards per game. The Giants also have problem on the rushing side of the defense. Allowing 133 yards per game. 

Edge: Packers 

Pick: The Packers are 11-0. The team is on the verge of perfection. The Giants barely have a winning record this season. The Packers have dominated everyone whom the team has played this year. The Giants are in the middle of a three game losing streak. Rodgers is having one of the best seasons ever, and doesn’t look like he can be stopped. The Giants still have a chance because the Packers’ passing defense isn’t very good. Still, this game will most likely culminate with the Pack being 12-0. 

Packers 31- Giants 14

Week 13 Picks: Last Week 12-4

Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills 

Chris Johnson, could he be back? After a great game last week, can he finally demonstrate why he received that huge contract this past offseason? He will have a good opportunity this week. He faces a Bills defense which allows 25.5 points per game. The Bills had a promising start to the year, but now are in a four game funk. Will they snap it? Unlikely. Titans over Bills 

Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears 

The Bears must be disappointed. Losing a game last week which would have been easy to win... If Jay Cutler had not been injured. The Chiefs’ primary quarterback is injured as well. Matt Cassel. The team is forced to go withTyler Palko. Kyle Orton was signed to back him up. Orton could start instead of Palko on Sunday. The Bears have the edge in this one, with the great Matt Forte running for them. Bears over Chiefs 

Atlanta Falcons at Houston Texans 

Now both Texans quarterbacks named Matt are gone. First, all-star Matt Schaub is injured for the season, and last week, after just one half of quarterbacking; Leinart is done. These injuries forced an unproven rookie, T.J Yates to step in to play. The Falcons meanwhile, have Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, and Julio Jones. Despite allowing just 16 points per game, the Texans have no proven quarterback. That could be a problem. Falcons over Texans 

Oakland Raiders at Miami Dolphins 

The Raiders beat the Bears last week, and as a result of that, the Dolphins should be easy.  Carson Palmer is beginning to settle into a groove for the Raiders. The Raiders are riding a three game winning streak and in first place, while the Dolphins are in dead last in the AFC East. The Dolphins have Reggie Bush. Bush is trying to prove himself as a quality NFL running back. He might have a good game, but his team won’t. 

Raiders over Dolphins 

Denver Broncos at Minnesota Vikings 

Tim Tebow keeps on doing it. Doing what? No one knows. Tebow is hated for not being a “true” quarterback. No matter, he’s been getting the job done for the Broncos. The Vikings have lost three in a row, and look as though they have no hope this season.  Could Christian Ponder use of some of Tebow’s magic? Yes. Will he be able to? Nope. 

Broncos over Vikings 

Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots 

Probably one of the best NFL rivalries in recent years. There have been countless close finishes between these two teams. This year? Expect a blowout by the Pats. The Colts don’t have Manning. No way that the team can win. The Pats? The Patriots are doing well. They have Brady, Welker, and others. This should be an easy game for the AFC East leaders. Patriots over Colts 

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers 

Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers are in a deadlock with the Ravens for first in the AFC North. The Bengals have made an impressive run this season as well. The team is led by one of the most surprising rookies this season. Andy Dalton. The last time these two teams played each other, the Bengals lost 24-17. Dalton and A.J Green look to avenge this loss. Two great defenses playing against each other, whoever has the better quarterback will usually win. We all know who that is. 

Steelers over Bengals 

Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

Cam Newton will try to help his Panthers beat the team’s division rival. Josh Freeman is having a solid season of his own for the Bucs. The Bucs need to improve on defensive side. The team is allowing 26.5 points per game. Cam Newton should be able do well in this one. An upset is likely in this game.    

Panthers over Buccaneers 

New York Jets at Washington Redskins 

The second place Jets take on a struggling Redskins squad. The Redskins (still) do not have a quarterback, and may already be thinking about next season. Why you may ask? The Redskins could be a team that acquires Peyton Manning; that is if the Colts were to draft Andrew Luck. The Jets’ fantastic defense should lead them to victory in this matchup. 

Jets over Redskins 

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals 

These two teams played each other a few weeks ago. The result? The Ravens winning it. The Bengals will have a hard time avenging that loss. Ray Rice, Flacco, and the defense should beat the Bengals. Dalton will have a hard time in this game. 

Ravens over Bengals 

Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals 

The NFC East leading Cowboys take on Kevin Kolb. Kolb is finally starting for the Cardinals again. Larry Fitz should benefit from Kolb starting. DeMarco Murray should continue his streak of great rushing games. The Cardinals rushing defense allows an astonishing average of 123.5 rushing yards per game. Tony Romo should be comfortable against the Cardinals as well. Cowboys over Cardinals 

St. Louis Rams at San Francisco 49ers 

The 49ers are one of the NFL’s most surprising teams this season. The team’s defense is fantastic. Opposing teams have just scored 14 points per game against the team. The same cannot be said about the Rams. The team is one of many trying to get Andrew Luck. A 2-9 team beating a 9-2 team?Not likely. 

49ers over Rams 

Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints 

Drew Brees and Jimmy Graham take on Matthew Stafford and Brandon Pettigrew. The Lions, who after starting the season out well, have struggled a bit of late. Both of these teams are having trouble on defense. Because of that, expect numerous points from both teams. Kevin Smith will look to be a factor in the rushing game for the Lions. Drew Brees is a better quarterback than Stafford, which will probably determine the factor of this game. Saints over Lions 

San Diego Chargers at Jacksonville Jaguars

The Chargers are in the middle of a six game funk. The Jaguars recently fired the team’s longtime coach; Jack Del Rio. Norv Turner is probably next. The Chargers are allowing 25 points per game. This is not the same Chargers team that once had Luis Castillo and Shawne Merriman on the same defense. That Chargers team has moved on.  The Jaguars have a great defense, only allowing only 18 points per game. But... The Jaguars have a terrible offense, averaging only 12 points per game. Ouch. Scoring less than your allowing. Ouch.  Phil Rivers should be able to squeak out a victory to bring the end of a disappointing season. Chargers over Jaguars 

Week 12 Game of the Week

Tom Brady and the Patriots will try to out pass the Eagles.

New England Patriots at Philadelphia Eagles

Two of the best offenses face off. The list of the stars participating in this game is incredible. Tom Brady, Michael Vick, LeSean McCoy, Wes Welker, DeSean Jackson. The list goes on and on. Expect a shootout in this matchup.  

Patriots Offense: Tom Brady is leading the Patriots to another offensive surge this season. He is leading the NFL in passing yards per game. He’s throwing most of  his passes to Wes Welker. Welker is dominating this season. He’s leading the NFL in catches. In the running game, the Patriots still can’t seem to find a running back. Still, when you have one of the best passing teams in the NFL, you don’t really need that good of a running back. 

LeSean McCoy looks to take advantage of the Patriots defense.

Eagles Offense: Who would’ve thought? LeSean McCoy is now one of the best running backs in the game, if not the best. He has led a struggling Eagles team to the brink of play-off contention. The Eagles need to win this matchup in order to stay in the hunt. Mike Vick should look for DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin a lot, since the Pats have the worst passing defense in the NFL. Vick will be throwing many passes in this one. 

Edge: Patriots 

Patriots Defense: The worst passing defense in football. If Vick doesn’t get 200+ passing yards in this matchup, there’s obviously a problem with the Eagles. The rushing defense for the Patriots is solid enough to make Vick throw more. However, LeSean McCoy is one of the best ‘backs in the game. 

Eagles Defense: The Eagles’ defense is much better. The Dream Team signed the necessary free agents to build a great defense. The Eagles have a solid rushing defense as well. The rushing defense should not be much of a factor in this game, as the Pats cannot seem to find a consistent running back. 

Edge: Eagles 

Pick: With two of the best offenses in the game today, expect a lot of fantasy points from each player in this game. The key to this game will be how the Pats’ defense will hold up. If LeSean McCoy can rush his way to a few touchdowns, the Pats could lose. Tom Brady will be his dominant self in this one. The Patriots have a big edge at quarterback, while the Eagles have the same at running back. There will be numerous touchdowns, but the team with the better quarterback usually wins. 

Patriots 38- Eagles 35

Week 12 Picks: Last Week: 9-4

Minnesota Vikings at Atlanta Falcons 

The Vikings lost to the Raiders last week. Eeek! When you lose to a team with a quarterback who missed training camp,  you have a problem. Matt Ryan and Julio Jones should be able take care of the Vikes in this one. But there is still hope for AP, just not much. Falcons over Vikings 

Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals

Andy Dalton rolls on. The Bengals continue to win with him as quarterback. The Browns’ shouldn’t be much of a challenge. However, Montario Hardesty and Madden cover boy Peyton Hillis could possibly coming back. It doesn’t matter who is starting though, as the Bengals have the 3^rd best rushing defense in football. Bengals over Browns 

Carolina Panthers at Indianapolis Colts 

A matchup of two of the worst teams in the NFL. The visiting team has the most surprising quarterback of the season, in Cam Newton. The home team, doesn’t really have anyone special. This team (the Colts) has not won yet this season, and probably won’t win in this one. The Colts could somehow win though, the Panthers’ defense is not very good. Still, the Panthers have Newton. Panthers over Colts 

Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars 

Well look who it is. Matt Leinart, he of the 2004 Heisman trophy, is going to be throwing the ball for the division leading Texans. Welcome back to the NFL Matt! Your task is to lead your first place team to a victory over Maurice Jones-Drew and Blaine Gabbert. You think do it? I think so. Texans over Jaguars 

Buffalo Bills at New York Jets 

The Bills were supposed to be the NFL’s surprise team this season, after they beat the Patriots. After that victory, the team have been slowly slipping through the cracks, and the team is riding a three game losing streak. The Jets on the other hand, have not been doing so well either. The game is being played in the Meadowlands, and anything can happen; but Sanchez should do well at home. Jets over Bills 

Arizona Cardinals at St. Louis Rams 

Well isn’t that a coincidence. A matchup of the teams for which Kurt Warner played quarterback and then led the team to the Superbowl. These two teams could sure use his help now. Sam Bradford hasn’t been able to replay his rookie season again, and John Skelton is playing quarterback for the Cardinals. It will be hard to pick who’s going to win, but Steven Jackson is a great runner. Rams over Cardinals 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tennessee Titans 

The Bucs are feeling kinda low right now. They have lost 4 in a row, and need to start winning to get to the play-offs. The Titans lost last week to the Falcons. Josh Freeman is having a great season, while Chris Johnson continues to disappoint. He has just two touchdowns, and two 100 yard games. Expect Freeman to end the losing streak. Buccaneers over Titans 

Chicago Bears at Oakland Raiders 

Carson Palmer vs… Caleb Hanie? Who is that? Well, he is the Bears’ starting quarterback this week. It’s a good thing the team has Forte. Without Forte, the Bears would get killed. For the Raiders, Michael Bush continues to thrive as the primary back. Carson Palmer is slowly coming together. Without Cutler, it’ll be tough for the Bears. 

Raiders over Bears 

Washington Redskins at Seattle Seahawks 

The Redskins still don’t have a quarterback, and the Seahawks are starting Tarvaris Jackson. Not much better. Marshawn Lynch is steadily improving for Seattle. While the Redskins have lost six in a row. The Seahawks should continue the team’s slow march to the play-offs. 

Seahawks over Redskins 

Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers 

A quarterback who doesn’t pass? That is what the Broncos are believing in. That quarterback, Tim Tebow, has led the squad to three straight wins. The Chargers, who for once started the season well; are now in a bit of a funk. The team has lost five straight games. Can Tebow continue his dominance? The Chargers passing defense is great. But wait. Tebow doesn’t pass! The Chargers should end the team’s funk though. Chargers over Broncos 

Pittsburgh Steelers at Kansas City Chiefs 

This is a disappointing Steelers squad. Sure, the team is in 2^nd place in the AFC North, but losing to the Ravens. Twice? There have been better Steelers teams. Still, with Tyler Palko starting for the Chiefs, and no Jamaal Charles, the Steelers cruise. Steelers over Chiefs 

New York Giants at New Orleans Saints 

Eli Manning is having a fantastic season, one of his best. Drew Brees is also having a superb season as well. The Saints are in first in the NFC South, while the Giants trail the Cowboys by one game. This should be an entertaining game to watch. There will be a lot of passing in this one. It will be a close game, but Brees and Jimmy Graham should beat the Giants. Saints over Giants