Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 8/ Halloween

Ravens (-3) over Broncos

Texans (-3.5) over Bills

Colts (-13) over 49ers

Last week: 2-1

Overall: 7-11

Halloween Pick 3:

Movies:

1. Halloween (1978)

2. Scream

3. The Shining

Villians:

1. Michael Myers

2. Catherine Tramell (Basic Instinct)

3. Dracula

Candy:

1. 3 Musketeers

2. Snickers

3. Reese's

Happy Halloween from all of us at The Sports Brief!

-Keefe

Keefe's 2009-2010 NBA Preview: Awards & Champion

Awards:

MVP: LeBron James, Cavaliers
Rookie of the Year: James Harden, Thunder
6th Man: Manu Ginobili, Spurs
D-Player: LeBron James, Cavaliers
Coach: Flip Saunders, Wizards

All-NBA 1st Team
LeBron James, Cavaliers
Tim Duncan, Spurs
Dwight Howard, Magic
Kobe Bryant, Lakers
Dwyane Wade, Heat

All-NBA 2nd Team
Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks
Paul Pierce, Celtics
Pau Gasol, Lakers
Gilbert Arenas, Wizards
Chris Paul, Hornets

All-NBA 3rd Team
Kevin Garnett, Celtics
Kevin Durant, Thunder
Chris Bosh, Raptors
Deron Williams, Jazz
Brandon Roy, Blazers

All-Rookie 1st Team
James Harden, Thunder
DeMar DeRozan, Raptors
Tyreke Evans, Kings
DeJuan Blair, Spurs
Brandon Jennings, Bucks

All-Rookie 2nd Team
Blake Griffin, Clippers (out min. 6 weeks)
Terrence Williams, Nets
Stephen Curry, Warriors
Jonny Flynn, Timberwolves
Chase Budinger, Rockets

East All-Stars
Starters:
LeBron James, Cavaliers
Kevin Garnett, Celtics
Dwight Howard, Magic
Dwyane Wade, Heat
Gilbert Arenas, Wizards

Reserves:
Paul Pierce, Celtics
Joe Johnson, Hawks
Danny Granger, Pacers
Vince Carter, Magic
Chris Bosh, Raptors
Derrick Rose, Bulls
Brook Lopez, Nets

West All-Stars
Starters:
Tim Duncan, Spurs
Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks
Pau Gasol, Lakers
Kobe Bryant, Lakers
Chris Paul, Hornets

Reserves:
Kevin Durant, Thunder
Brandon Roy, Blazers
Deron Williams, Jazz
Carmelo Anthony, Nuggets
Richard Jefferson, Spurs
Tony Parker, Spurs
Emeka Okafor, Hornets

Playoffs:

West: Spurs over Lakers
East: Celtics over Magic

Finals: Spurs over Celtics

-Keefe

Keefe's 2009-2010 NBA Preview: Eastern Conference

Yesterday I gave you the Western Conference from top to bottom, today it's the Eastern Conference. Tomorrow I will conclude my 2009-2010 NBA Preview with Awards, Conference Finals match ups, and of course the NBA Champion. To the East!

Eastern Conference
1. Boston Celtics
2. Cleveland Cavaliers
3. Orlando Magic
4. Washington Wizards
5. Miami Heat
6. Chicago Bulls
7. Toronto Raptors
8. Indiana Pacers
9. Atlanta Hawks
10. Detroit Pistons
11. New York Knicks
12. Philadelphia 76ers
13. Charlotte Bobcats
14. Milwaukee Bucks
15. New Jersey Nets

1. Celtics
Who's Back: Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo, Kendrick Perkins, Glen Davis, Eddie House
Who's New: Rasheed Wallace, Marquis Daniels, Sheldon Williams, Lester Hudson

Turns out Glen Davis is even a bigger idiot then we thought. The big fella who signed a 2 year $6.5 million dollar deal in the off season was messing around with a friend and broke his thumb, he is now out 6-8 weeks. Not good, when it would have been ideal to ease KG back from his injury. This is annoying, but I still think the C's are the best in the East when healthy.

2. Cavaliers
Who's Back: LeBron James, Mo Williams, Big Z, Boobie Gibson, Anderson Varejao, J.J. Hickson
Who's New: Shaquille O'Neal, Anthony Parker, Jamario Moon

Everyone is talking about Shaq, but I think their best moves this off season were the signings of Parker and Moon. Two guys with some size at the 2-3 spot who can knock down the 3. Delonte West is an unknown, so suddenly those guys are even more important. And of course they have LeBron.

3. Magic
Who's Back: Dwight Howard, Rashard Lewis, Jameer Nelson, Marcin Gortat
Who's New: Vince Carter, Matt Barnes, Brandon Bass, Ryan Anderson, Jason Williams (white one out of Florida, not the one who killed his driver or the one who ruined his NBA career wrecking a motorcycle.)

The East is clearly a 3 team race, and each team went out and tried to improve their club. Orlando is the defending Eastern Conference champions... which no one seems to remember. I like the addition of Vince, and Barnes and Bass were 2 guys I really wanted the Celtics to bring in. So even though they lose Hedo, I think the Magic are even better than they were last year. (Note: Rashard Lewis out the first 10 games after getting busted for roids.)

4. Wizards
Who's Back: Gilbert Arenas, Caron Butler, Antawn Jamison, Brendan Haywood, Nick Young, Andray Blatche, DeShawn Stevenson
Who's New: Mike Miller, Randy Foye

If healthy this is a scary team, but of course, they are never healthy. Season hasn't even started and Jamison is already expected to miss the first 8-13 games. Gilbert played in only 2 last year, making it a lost year. When they go small thought look out: Arenas, Foye, Miller, Butler, Jamison... fun to watch, should be the highest scoring trio in the league too with Gilbert, Caron, and Antawn.

5. Heat
Who's Back: Everyone
Who's New: Q

D-Wade is the 2nd best player in the NBA in my mind. If he can get anything out of Jermaine O'Neal and Haslem up front, and if 2nd year players Beasley and Chalmers get better they should be a playoff team.

6. Bulls
Who's Back: Derrick Rose, John Salmons, Luol Deng, Tyrus Thomas, Kirk Hinrich, Brad Miller
Who's New: James Johnson, Jannero Pargo, Taj Gibson

Ben Gordon is gone, but I expect Derrick Rose to be even better than his Rookie of the Year campaign a season ago. They still got Hinrich coming off the bench and a pair of 1st round picks (Johnson & Gibson) who should contribute. Normally this might not be a playoff team, but the East is weak.

7. Raptors
Who's Back: Chris Bosh. Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani
Who's New: Hedo Turkoglu, DeMar DeRozan, Marco Belinelli, Jarret Jack, Amir Johnson, and Sports Brief favorite Antoine Wright

If they put it all together this could be a tough team, but thats a big if. DeRozan may have been the best athlete in the draft, how will he develop? Is this Bosh's farewell season in Toronto? Does he go out with a bang or 1st round play off exit... again.

8. Pacers
Who's Back: Danny Granger, Troy Murphy, T.J. Ford, Brandon Rush, Roy Hibbert, Jeff Foster
Who's New: Dahntay Jones, Tyler Hansbrough, Earl Watson

Like in the West I had to go with a sleeper to make the playoffs. This pick is based soley on how good I think Danny Granger is. Because the East has only 3 dominate teams, I believe 1 elite player can get his team into the playoffs (See: Wade, Rose, Bosh... now Granger.)

9. Hawks
Who's Back: Everyone
Who's New: Jamal Crawford, Joe Smith

Yes Joe Johnson should be on the same list as Granger, Bosh, and Rose, but I have a feeling the Hawks fall off a bit this year. They've gotten better each of the last 4 seasons, however I believe they have hit a wall. How much further can they get with a core group of Bibby (aging), Johnson (legit), Marvin Williams (sucks), Josh Smith (all over the place), and Horford (above average rebounder)?

10. Pistons
Who's Back: Richard Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince, Rodney Stuckey, Kwame Brown, Jason Maxiell, Will Bynum
Who's New: Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, Chris Wilcox

Detroit forgot that all the good free agents were next off season and blew all of their money on Gordon and Villanueva this year. I just don't like this team. I wish a hardy goodluck to 1st year coach John Kuester.

11. Knicks
Who's Back: David Lee, Wilson Chandler, Al Harrington, Danilo Gallinari, Chris Duhon, Nate Robinson, Larry Hughes, Eddy Curry
Who's New: Darko!, Jordan Hill

Trivia question, who led the NBA in double-doubles last year? Answer: David Lee. Pretty ridiculous considering Lee plays in the same league as Dwight Howard. 1st round pick (8th overall) Jordan Hill has "a ways to go" according to head coach Mike D'Antoni, that sums up the entire squad I'd say. They'll score a lot and lose a lot. What happens if they don't get LeBron? Could Gallinari break out this year?

12. 76ers
Who's Back: Elton Brand, Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young, Lou Williams, Samuel Dalembert, Willie Green, Marreese Speights
Who's New: Jason Kapono, Rodney Carney, Jrue Holliday

Andre Miller is gone, meaning Lou Williams gets the job at point. What about 1st round pick Jrue Holliday? Well the guy who I said needed to return to school more than any other underclassmen, did not play in a single preseason game for Philly, and not because of injury, but rather he is so far out from the rotation. Nice.

13. Bobcats
Who's Back: Gerald Wallace, Raymond Felton, Boris Diaw, Raja Bell, Vlad Radmanovic, D.J. Augustin, Nazr Mohammed
Who's New: Tyson Chandler, Gerald Henderson

Still everytime I hear the name Bobcats or see their uniforms I have to convince myself it's an NBA team. Seems more like an NBDL or Arena Football or something. Raja Bell is putting off surgery, but if he reinjures his left wrist he could be out for good. Okafor out Chandler in, means less than their 35 wins from a season ago.

14. Bucks
Who's Back: Michael Redd, Andrew Bogut, Luke Ridnour, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute
Who's New: Hakim Warrick, Brandon Jennings, Carlos Delfino, Kurt Thomas, Ersan Ilyasova

They lose Villanueva and Sessions from a 34 win team, of course Michael Redd played just 33 games due to injury. Speaking of injury former 1st rounder Joe Alexander (who sucks) is out 8-12 weeks. I do like Brandon Jennings a lot, and he is a reason to watch a Bucks game this year.

15. Nets
Who's Back: Devin Harris, Brook Lopez, Yi Jianlian, Bobby Simmons, CDR, Josh Boone
Who's New: Courtney Lee, Terrence Williams, Skip to my Lou, Russian Owner

Like the Kings, Bucks, and T-Wolves, NJ should watch a lot of college basketball this year. There is a tremendous Freshmen class this year with the likes of Wall, Favors, Cousins, Henry, Sidney, and Stephenson. Goodluck Nets!

-Keefe

Enjoy the 1st Night of the NBA Season! Celtics/ Cavs, Wizards/Mavs, Rockets/ Blazers, and Lakers/ Clippers. I'll have all the awards and pick my NBA Champ tomorrow.

BJal's Lock du Suck - Monday, October 26

I didn't get this up before the game, and I apologize for that, but BJal texted me on my way home from work today with his pick. Here's his text, word for word...

"I have been picking opposites...I'm going with Washington tonight..."

That's awesome. I referenced in a post yesterday that he would be better off picking opposite of what he really thought. Apparently he got so bad, and in such a rut that he was doing exactly that...and still losing. As my buddy Kevin's dad once told him during a rough patch, it gets so bad "you can't even pick your nose." That statement pretty much sums up where BJal is right now. If he flipped a coin with heads on both sides and called heads, it would be tails.

To sum up tonight's game, Washington still sucks and so does BJal at picking games. I checked the line on Bodog, they were getting 9 points. So close, yet so far. The best part is the over/under was 38.5. For those of you that put your mortgage on the under, you know all too well that a Jason Campbell TD pass with less than 2 minutes left, in a 27-10 game and clearly garbage time, made it a 27-17 and...wait for it...brought the point total to...44!!! You have to love it, unless of course you bet the under.

Anyway, we'll continue to throw our support behind BJal because well, if we don't, he'll have nothing except the distant memory of no-hitting me and Kevin's legendary All-Star team back in Little League. Even though we crushed his team in the loser's bracket a day later and went on to the win the title, the fact that he no-hit our team was one of the greatest athletic accomplishments in the history of the world. It was unheard of during those days, and impossible feat, a dream that he made a reality. Hopefully by mentioning this it boosts his morale and helps get him back on the winning track.

I wonder if he'll pick another opposite tomorrow...

-Bess

Keefe's 2009-2010 NBA Preview: Western Conference

Believe it or not the NBA season kicks off tomorrow night with can't miss double header on TNT. Kevin Garnett (healthy-ish), Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen take on LeBron James and his new teammate Shaquille O'Neal as the Cavs host the Celtics. Then the defending champion Lakers with new small forward Ron Artest face this year's #1 pick Blake Griffin and the Clippers in an all LA showdown. (Normally the Clippers would be hard to justify as being a part of a can't miss double dip, but with Griffin, an in shape Baron Davis, Marcus Camby, and of course an 0-0 record with the whole season ahead of them, I'm going to include them.

I'm going to break down my NBA Preview into 3 parts; Western Conference, Eastern Conference, and Awards. For each conference I will rank the teams 1-15 in the order I believe they will finish then go team-by-team with a quick look of "Who's Returning," "Who's New," and basically why they will finish in X place. Let's dive right in with a look at the West.

Western Conference

1. San Antonio Spurs
2. Los Angeles Lakers
3. Dallas Mavericks
4. Utah Jazz
5. New Orleans Hornets
6. Portland Trail Blazers
7. Denver Nuggets
8. Oklahoma City Thunder
9. Golden State Warriors
10. Los Angeles Clippers
11. Houston Rockets
12. Phoenix Suns
13. Memphis Grizzlies
14. Minnesota Timberwolves
15. Sacramento Kings

1. Spurs
Who's Back: Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, Roger Mason, Matt Bonner
Who's New: Richard Jefferson, Antonio McDyess, DeJuan Blair

The Spurs to me, are the team to beat. All the attention will be on the Lakers, as it should being the defending champs, but look at what San Antonio did in the off season. Adding a scorer like RJ with size and intellegence of McDyess, then getting the steal of the draft in the 2nd round with Blair. Unreal. If Manu is healthy they are my pick.

2. Lakers
Who's Back: Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, Andrew Bynum, Derek Fisher, Jordan Farmar, Sasha Vujacic, Luke Walton
Who's New: Ron Artest

The Champs basically swapped Trevor Ariza for Ron Arest. Who's a better player, easy it's Artest, but who's a better fit, we will see. You can't top what Ariza helped do last year (win a title). Artest will be asked to play D and hit the open 3, and you know it will always being interesting when Ron is involved.

3. Mavericks
Who's Back: Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Josh Howard, Jason Terry, Erick Dampier, J.J. Barea (shout out Northeastern)
Who's New: Shawn Marion, Drew Gooden, Tim Thomas

It's not a young team. They know they need to win now. It will be fun to see how they match up with the Lakers & Spurs, the two teams that are standing in the way of the rest of the teams on this list. Maybe it's just my obsession with Marion, and him once again playing with a terrific passing point guard but I think the Mavs can be great. Do you think this lineup will cause match up problems galore for opposing teams: Kidd, Terry, Howard, Marion, Dirk... yeah me too.

4. Jazz
Who's Back: Everyone
Who's New: No one

Jerry Sloan brings back the entire crew, for better or worse. Paul Millsap can afford his own meals now, but he'll still likely come off the bench behind Carlos Boozer who is clearly the X factor on this team. Deron Williams is the 2nd best point guard in the league, and he and Boozer can be a deadly 1-2 punch, if Boozer is healthy and plays with some fire.

5. Hornets
Who's Back: Chris Paul, David West, Peja Stojakovic, Mo-Pete, James Posey, Julien Wright, Hilton Armstrong
Who's New: Emeka Okafor

Okafor for Tyson Chandler should give the Hornets more scoring and consistency. I like the move bringing in a double-double machine, takes pressure off of David West as well. How good can Chris Paul be? (22.8 points, 11 assists, 5.5 rebounds, 2.77 steals last year).

6. Trail Blazers
Who's Back: Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge, Greg Oden, Rudy Fernandez, Travis Outlaw, The Vanilla Gorilla Joel Pryzbilla, Nicolas Batum
Who's New: Andre Miller

I've read a lot of people saying they don't like the Andre Miller move. I'm not ready to write it off. Portland almost landed Hedo Turkoglu in the off season, but that likely would have sent Rudy Fernandez back to Spain, I'm calling a monster year out of Rudy.

7. Nuggets
Who's Back: Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Nene, Kenyon Martin, J.R. Smith, Birdman, Renaldo Balkman
Who's New: Aaron Afflalo, Ty Lawson

They won't be as good as they were last year, but still a playoff team in my mind simply because they have Melo and Billups. 7th and 8th seed looks like a terrible place to be, you have to play either the Lakers or Spurs and you miss out on the lottery.

8. Thunder
Who's Back: Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Jeff Green, Nenad Krstic, Nick Collison, Thabo Sefolosha, Shaun Livingston
Who's New: James Harden

Might not be ready to make the step to the post season this year, but I'm going to take them sneaky into the 8th spot. One of the most fun teams in the league to watch with rising superstar Kevin Durant. I also absolutely love the pick of James Harden as well. OKC lucked out with Memphis taking Hasheem Thabeet, because that made sure the Thunder didn't make that mistake.

9. Warriors
Who's Back: Monta Ellis, Stephen Jackson, Anthony Randolph, Andris Biedrins, Corey Maggette, Anthony Morrow, Kelenna Azubuike
Who's New: Stephen Curry

Golden State is a tough team to predict. They could finish as high as 6th or as low as 13th. I'll put them at 9, I love their style, fun to watch. I'm not as high on Curry as most. (Stephen Curry pronounced Steph-En, spelled same way as Stephen Jackson, pronounced Steven... someones wrong.)

10. Clippers
Who's Back: Baron Davis, Eric Gordon, Al Thornton, Marcus Camby, Chris Kamen, Ricky Davis
Who's New: Blake Griffin, Sebastian Telfair, Rasual Butler, Craig Smith

The talent is there, but so is Mike Dunleavy. If Baron doesn't mail it in and Camby and Kamen stay relatively healthy this could be a playoff team with the addition of the only can't miss rookie in last June's draft.

11. Rockets
Who's Back: Aaron Brooks, Shane Battier, Luis Scola, Chuck Hayes, Carl Landry, Kyle Lowry
Who's New: Trevor Ariza, Chase Budinger, David Andersen
Who's Hurt: Yao Ming, Tracy McGrady

The Warriors were the toughest team in the West to predict, the Rockets are just the toughest team in the West. They fought hard in the playoffs last year even without Yao and T-Mac. Sure they could do it again, but 82 games is a long season, their lack of talent has to catch up with them.

12. Suns
Who's Back: Steve Nash, Amare Stoudemire, Jason Richardson, Grant Hill, Leandro Barbosa
Who's New: Channing Frye, Earl Clark

Steve Kerr = great shooter, awesome color commentator, horrible GM. Too bad because it was fun to watch Steve Nash on a good team.

13. Grizzlies
Who's Back: Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo, Marc Gasol, Mike Conley, Darrell Arthur
Who's New: Zach Randolph, Allen Iverson, Hasheem Thabeet, Sam Young

Wow. I count 4 guys who can get you 22+ points per game, but how many will when they're all playing together. Say what you want but I would be hard pressed to turn away from a game that had Gay, Mayo, AI, and Randolph playing together. Of course I'll be hard pressed to find a Grizzlies game unless I spring for the League Pass. I don't like the Thabeet pick as I mentioned before, not a horrible player, but #2 overall that's tough to live up too. Also I bet Bill Simmons could be right about contender getting Rudy Gay for 50 cents on the dollar during the year.

14. Timberwolves
Who's Back: Al Jefferson, Kevin Love, Corey Brewer, Ryan Gomes
Who's New: Jonny Flynn, Ramon Session, Wayne Ellington, Damien Wilkins, Ryan Hollins

Kurt Rambis takes over a team that had 24 wins last season and completely botched the 2009 NBA Draft. Ricky Rubio will be playing over seas for the next couple of years while the T-Wolves continue to lose games and look bad doing it. Al Jefferson back from injury... player prop for you: Jefferson Points + Rebounds per game over/under Minnesota Wins + 10.

15. Kings
Who's Back: Kevin Martin, Jason Thompson, Spencer Hawes, Andres Nocioni, Beno Udrih, Francisco Garcia
Who's New: Tyreke Evans, Jon Brockman, Desmond Mason

The Kings are terrible. Martin can score, and I think Evans will have great rookie numbers because not 1 of his games will matter. Is it too soon to start working out John Wall, Derrick Favors, and DeMarcus Cousins?


There you have it the 2009-2010 Western Conference through the eyes of Rich Keefe. I'll have the breakdown of the Eastern Conference coming soon.

-Keefe

Let's hear it for Brazil!

The 2016 Summer Olympics, Pele, the Brazilian Women's soccer team, so why not add 2 of the very best in the world of mixed martial arts. Saturday night in Los Angeles the undefeated Lyoto Machida put his UFC Light Heavyweight Championship belt on the line against the 18-3 and former Pride Grand Prix Champ Mauricio "Shogun" Rua. I was going to bet on Shogun and his +375 line, however I am at odds with my previously bet taking website, so decided to not wager on the fight.

I am glad that I didn't, because I would have lost my mind, in addition to $25-$50 bucks. (I'm not going to bet the house on an underdog, no matter how good the feeling, just can't do it.) Shogun lost the fight to Machida by unanimous decision 48-47 on all the judges scorecards.

I felt that Shogun definitely won 2 rounds, Machida definitely won 1 run with 2 being toss ups, apparently those 2 went to the defending champ. It looks as though we could see an automatic rematch between these two Brazilian fighters, and that makes sense on a bunch of levels. Rampage Jackson appears to still be retired (the next best 205 pound fighter in the world), and middleweight champ Anderson Silva, who embarrassed former champ Forrest Griffin has said he would not fight his friend and training partner Machida.

Who else is deserving of a shot? Rashad Evans? Not right now he's not. Wanderlei Silva? Nope. Keith Jardine? No thanks, and on down the line. Because it was such a close decision, I love the idea of Machida vs. Shogun II.

In addition to Brazil, let's hear it for Tristan Besse who went 9-2 on his UFC 104 picks including a perfect 5-0 on the main card. Certainly better than BJal's Lock du Jour and Keefe's Pick 3.

-Keefe

*Keefe's 2009-2010 NBA Preview Coming Soon...

Marius Zaromskis does it again

Another fight for Marius Zaromskis, and another win via devastating head kick. You may remember recently us posting his KO win over Jason High to win the Welterweight Grand Prix at Dream 10. Well, Zaromskis took on Myeon Ho Bae at Dream 12 yesterday and provided another highlight reel KO via head kick. Check it out...this dude is serious:

BJal's Lock du Jour - Sunday, October 25

BJal is back on a losing streak, dropping his last two picks, both college football games. I thought the Army pick was terrible, but I actually believe in the Notre Dame (-7.5) pick. And if Hughes didn't get dropped at the goal line on 4th down, the Irish would have covered. Did anyone notice him drop straight down on that? I was watching the game with my buddy Milano (save the cookie jokes) and he pointed it out to me during the replay. We were fully convinced that Hughes was knocked out cold there ala Anquan Boldin. After the play the NBC cameras showed him in a world of hurt and somewhat out of it, which makes complete sense. Great hit. Even better stop.

But today BJal is going for St. Louis (+13.5) over the Colts. Jimmy the Greek took the Colts, and based on performance and reputation, I think BJal is looking at yet another losing streak. Start picking opposites, pal.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Rams (+13.5) over Colts
Overall: 6-11...gross

-Bess

UFC 104 picks

Tonight from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA, Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida makes his first defense of the light heavyweight title against a surging Mauricio "Shogun" Rua. This could be one of the more exciting fights of the year, with two prolific strikers doing battle in the Octagon. Rua will no doubt be the aggressor, with his devastating Muay Tai skills contrasting the patient, elusive yet explosive striking of "The Dragon", who has knocked his last two opponents out cold. The co-main event is decent, with rising heavyweight prospect Cain Velasquez taking on savvy veteran Ben Rothwell. Velasquez was supposed to be taking on Shane Carwin in a #1 contender spot, but they needed Carwin to step in and face Brock Lesnar at UFC106. This will be a good test for the young Mexican fighter. Here are my picks for tonight's card:

Main card

Machida over Rua via (T)KO in the 3rd round
Velasquez over Rothwell via decision
"Rumble" Johnson over Yoshida via KO in the 1st round
*Note that Johnson's unprofessionalism brought him in at 176 pounds, 5 pounds over the 171 contracted weight. While he's probably reeling from cutting down from 220 pounds, he'll probably weigh almost 190 in the cage tonight.
Tibau over Neer via submission (guillotine choke) in the 2nd round
Stevenson over Fisher via decision

Preliminary bouts

Okami over Sonnen via decision
Hardonk over Barry via (T)KO in the 1st round
Bader over Schafer via decision
Rivera over Kimmons via (T)KO in the 2nd round
Kingsbury over Al-Hassan via decision
Struve over Gormley via submission (rear-naked choke) in the 1st round

Enjoy the fights.

-Bess

Jimmy the Greek's Week 7 NFL picks

The Greek is about to head off and work the Northeastern football game. For those of you that haven't been following, The Greek's alma maters, both Northeastern and St. Paul's, are in the midst of seasons of futility. The Huskies are 0-6 and have been outscored 241-70. For those of you keeping score at home, that's an average of about 40-10. In fact they've lost a couple games 54-0 and 56-7 to B.C. and Villanova, respectively. Just awful. But equally as awful have been the Fighting Pelicans of St. Paul's, who stand at 0-4 and have been outscored 101-26, including back-to-back shutouts to start the season. So I'm gonna release a couple lines of my own today...who will lose by a bigger margin? NU plays Hofstra while SPS takes on St. George's. Both games are at their respective home fields, but let's be honest, that won't help anyone. They practically play all road games with the rabid fan bases they're bringing in at home.

In other news, BJal continues to suck at picking games, going back to his losing ways with an embarrassing loss last night. I hope to God he is right with his ND pick today, but I can't handle back-to-back Irish losses, especially the latter to B.C. But let's face it, BJal picking your favorite team is like the kiss of death.

Onto The Greek's Week 7 NFL picks...I'm just giving you the picks this week, no breakdowns. As always, lines are courtesy of the elder Greek's office pool on CBS Sports...

Vikings (+4.5) over Steelers
49ers (+3.5) over Texans
Chargers (-4.5) over Chiefs
Colts (-13.5) over Rams
Pats (-14.5) over Bucs
Packers (-6.5) over Browns
Jets (-6.5) over Raiders
Panthers (-6.5) over Bills
Falcons (+3.5) over Cowboys
Dolphins (+6.5) over Saints
Bears (+1.5) over Bengals
Cardinals (+6.5) over Giants
Eagles (-7.5) over Redskins

-The Greek

BJal's Lock du Jour - Friday, October 23

So BJal has won two in a row. Unbelievable. But we've been here before. Three makes a winning streak, and I don't think he has it in him. Army +10.5 over Rutgers. And he's even given us a bonus, lumping in tomorrow's pick. He's taking Notre Dame -7.5 over Boston College. I personally love this pick, and I'm tempted to put my college loans on it. I'm predicting a 27-17 Irish victory.

By the way, tomorrow night is UFC104 with Machida defending his light heavyweight title for the first time against Shogun. I'll be tweeting results and such (@tbesse29) so check it out.

BJal's Lock du Jour(s): Army +10.5 over Rutgers; Notre Dame -7.5 over B.C.
Overall record: 6-9

-Bess

BJal's Lock du Jour - Thursday, October 22

I'm not sure what's more pathetic, BJal betting on the UTEP game, or BJal winning the UTEP game. Either way, he's still a loser in my book, and his record supports that sentiment. But tonight, he looks to make it two in a row! He's going with Florida State, on the road, giving up 2.5 against UNC. I don't like it. Any team that loses to Boston College this year loses my respect. Which is why I'll be watching this weekend's game with Notre Dame closely, because I do not want to lose respect for my Irish squad. I LOVE this team, and I'll be bitter and pissed off if they lose to a garbage team like the Eagles. But Florida State lost to them, and BJal is betting on the Seminoles. Good luck with allllllll that.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Florida State (-2.5) over UNC
Overall record: 5-9

-Bess

100 Scariest Movie Moments

Five years ago Bravo came up with their 100 Scariest Movie Moments and turned it into a mini series. They got interviews from a ton of actors, actresses, directors, writers, and horror "experts." I thought it was really good. They did not show it last year and I can't find any listings for it this year. If you like Horror movies I think you'll enjoy this list. With Halloween just over a week away I figured I'd put something up. Check out my 31 Days of Horror from last year... http://sportsbrief.blogspot.com/2008/10/31-nights-of-horror.html

I've seen the one's in bold. Feel free to comment below with some of your favorites whether they are on the list or not.

100.28 Days Later
99. Creepshow
98. Zombie
97. Cat People (1982)
96. The Birds
95. Jurassic Park
94. Child's Play
93. Pacific Heights
92. Village of the Damned
91. Shallow Grave
90. Night of the Hunter
89. Alice Sweet Alice
88. Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)
87. Black Christmas (1974)
86. Wizard of Oz
85. Blood & Black Lace
84. Blue Velvet
83. The Others
82. Terminator
81. The Howling
80. Poltergeist
79. Dracula (1992)
78. The Brood
77. Signs
76. Evil Dead
75. Candyman
74. Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory
73. Blood Simple
72. Them!
71. The Sixth Sense
70. The Stepfather
69. Re-Animator
68. The Black Cat
67. Duel
66. The Tenant
65. Marathon Man
64. Near Dark
63. Deliverance
62. The Wolf Man
61. The Devil's Backbone
60. The Beyond
59. Fatal Attraction
58. Cujo
57. House of Wax (1953)
56. Single White Female
55. The Vanishing (1993)
54. The Changeling
53. Demons
52. The Phantom of the Opera
51. The Dead Zone
50. The Last House on the Left (1972)
49. Diabolique
48. The Thing (1982)
47. Nosferatu (1929)
46. The Sentinel
45. The Wicker Man (1975)
44. The Game
43. It's Alive!
42. An American Werewolf in London
41. The Hills Have Eyes (1977)
40. Black Sunday
39. Dawn of the Dead (1978)
38. Peeping Tom
37. House on Haunted Hill (1959)
36. Cape Fear (1962)
35. Aliens
34. The Hitcher (1986)
33. The Fly (1986)
32. Pet Sematary
31. Friday the 13th
30. Blair Witch Project
29. Serpent and the Rainbow
28. When a Stranger Calls (1979)
27. Frankenstein (1931)
26. Seven
25. Phantasm
24. Suspiria
23. Rosemary's Baby
22. Don't Look Now
21. Jacob's Ladder
20. The Ring (2002)
19. Hellraiser
18. The Haunting (1963)
17. A Nightmare on Elm Street
16. The Omen (1976)
15. Freaks
14. Halloween (1978)
13. Scream
12. Misery
11. Audition
10. Wait Until Dark
9. Night of the Living Dead
8. Carrie (1976)
7. Silence of the Lambs
6. Shining
5. Texas Chainsaw Massacre
4. Psycho (1960)
3. Exorcist
2. Alien
1. Jaws

Enjoy the Horror Movie Season again this year!

-Keefe

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 7

Well Keefe's Pick 3 is quickly turning into another version of BJal's Lock du Jour. Fresh of an 0-fer I thought about just folding up shop, perhaps setting my sights on an NBA Season Preview, (which I will do before next week), but I'm going to stick with this thing... for now.

I really don't think I could bounce back from another 0-3 week, that's devastating. At least BJal only gets 1 loss at a time. (He did nail UTEP though!). So here we go, another Pick 3.

Packers (-7) over Browns
Colts (-14) over Rams
Falcons (+4) over Cowboys

Hint: Bet opposite.

Last Week: 0-3
Overall: 5-10

-Keefe

BJal's Lock du Jour - Wednesday, October 21

BJal texted me yesterday and said he needed to take a day off. I don't blame. He's lost 5 straight and caught in a downward spiral that seems like it may never end. It was like a star player coming into his manager's office, in the midst of an 0 for 30 slump, asking skip for a day to gather his thoughts and ponder suicide. And being the player's manager I am, I happily obliged. But he's back today, and back with a vengeance, picking UTEP (+7.5) against Tulsa. You may remember Tulsa from BJal's Lock last week, in which he had Boise State covering 9 points until Tulsa scored a TD in the middle of the 4th quarter. Let's see if they can screw him again...

BJal's Lock du Jour: UTEP (+7.5) over Tulsa
Overall Record: 4-9

-Bess

A Cutter AND a Spitball?

I first saw this on Boston.com, but pretty interesting stuff. Check it out below, Mariano Rivera vs. the Angels Game 3 of the ALCS.

You got to love the camera catching it then quickly panning to something else, with Chip Carey not mentioning a thing about it. It's not baseball unless you cheat. Bonds, Clemens, A-Rod, Manny, and now Rivera! The best OF, IF, starting pitcher, and now closer of the past 20 years. Hooray Baseball!


-Keefe

BJal's Lock du Jour - Monday, October 18

Today was my first day back at work after battling strep throat all of last week. What a grind that was. I wish strep upon no one, it is absolutely horrendous. I can't get on here and post shit during the day because my client, which is where I work, is real strict about websites and what not. Apparently I can sit on ESPN.com and visit every MMA website in the world, but it's illegal to go on Facebook or update my stupid blog. So BJal didn't text me his lock until I was already halfway down 495 this morning and at that point, there was no chance of me getting it up in time.

He's going with tonight's Monday Night Football game tonight between the Chargers and Broncos, taking the under on a line of 44 points. Not sure if you're following, but it's already 20-17 San Diego. I'd say he's screwed. I'm not sure what's worse, BJal at picking games or the special teams play in this one. In the first half alone Eddie Royal has returned a kickoff and a punt for a TD and Darren Sproles took a punt return to the house. Seriously, is it that hard to cover this stuff?

By the way, everyone will point to Girardi taking out Robertson and putting in Aceves as a huge managerial gaffe tonight, but what about when Scioscia blatantly outcoached him in the 8th? Posada was up and Gardner had been inserted as a pinch runner at first. Scioscia called a pitchout and they hosed him at second. Next pitch, Posada goes yahtzee to tie the game at four, except it should have been a 5-4 Yankees lead and eventually a 3-0 series lead. Woops.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Under 44 points - Chargers/Broncos MNF game
Overall: 4-8

P.S. Great pick yesterday taking the Titans, buddy. I really thought you had em there in the 2nd quarter.

-Bess

The End of Jermain Taylor's Career?

Jermain Taylor is 28-4, the former undisputed middleweight champion and undoubtedly one of the top super middleweight fighters in the world. But we may have seen the end of his impressive, albeit short fighting career last night in Berlin. Fighting Arthur Abraham in the 1st round of the Super Six Super Middleweight Tournament - a terrific idea, by the way - the man known as "Bad Intentions" took a knockout blow that delivered bad intentions for the 3rd time in the last two years.

The first loss of his career came at the hands of Kelly Pavlik, a war that ended when a flurry in the corner put Taylor down and out in the 7th round to earn the win for Pavlik. After falling short in a competitive decision loss to Pavlik months later, Taylor moved up to 168, successfully defeating former super middleweight champion Jeff Lacy. The win earned him a match with undefeated WBC champion Carl Froch. And for the second time in his career, Taylor got knocked out, this time in the final seconds of the fight ahead on the judge's scorecards. It was bad, but not as bad as the blow delivered by Abraham last night, Taylor's first fight since the Froch debacle. Check it out below...



My question is what the hell was the referee looking at? It's obvious once he goes down that Taylor is out cold. Yet the referee looks like he counts all the way to 6 or 7. In fact you can see the ringside doctor starts easing his way in as soon as Taylor went down, and he's already at Taylor by the time the ref waves it off. Way to have a clue, pal. But what do you think...even though it was a competitive fight and Taylor is clearly still a factor in the division, that's three bad knockouts in 2 years. Should he look to hang em up?

-Bess

Jimmy the Greek's Week 6 NFL picks

It's been a couple rough weeks for the Greek, but this is the week we turn it around here on The Brief. I'll get right to the picks...

Steelers (-13.5) over Browns
Pittsburgh needs a statement game, especially after losing DE Aaron Smith and missing Troy Palamalu. The latter may possibly be in the lineup today, but regardless, this Browns offense is taylor-made for the "statement game".

Saints (-2.5) over Giants
Everyone and their mother probably thinks Eli and the Giants will prevail, but I think this is shaping up to be the Saints year. Their QB is better, Pierre Thomas is a solid NFL RB, and the receiving corp is lights out. Meanwhile, the defense has shown it can go in shut down mode, and Darren Sharper has gone all Ed Reed out there with five picks. Playing at home, look for New Orleans to find a way.

Rams (+9.5) over Jaguars
I think this will be a high scoring game. Both defenses are awful, but the Rams will stay in this because of the Jaguars last ranked pass defense.

Packers (-13.5) over Lions
Detroit is probably without Stafford and Johnson, so this should get ugly quick. Aaron Rodgers is primed for a huge game, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the defense contribute immensely as well with a pick six to go with a couple interceptions and forced fumble or two.

Texans (+5.5) over Bengals
I want to pick Cincy to cover. At 4-1, they should easily be 5-0. But they've been living on the edge, and something tells me the Texans playmakers are going to give them trouble today, especially Steve Slaton. Look for a letdown this week out of Cincy. They may pull it out, but they won't cover.

Panthers (-3.5) over Bucs
Jake Delhomme continues his resurgence, and I think D'Angelo Williams starts to get his swagger back. Tampa Bay sucks.

Chiefs (+6.5) over Redskins
Washington wins but can't cover.

Ravens (+2.5) over Vikings
Upset special of the week. After last week's last second meltdown, Ray Lewis will have his troops ready to roll. And Brett Favre finally has an off week and loses a game for the Vikings.

Seahawks (-2.5) over Cardinals
I like Hasselbeck and the Seahawks offense when healthy. And I think they'll outgun Kurt Warner and the Cardinals. Plus the line seems like it's baiting you to bet on the Cardinals in a classic "trap game".

Eagles (-13.5) over Raiders
No comment necessary.

Pats (-9.5) over Titans
Please see comments in today's BJal's Lock du Jour.

Jets (-9.5) over Bills
The tension in Buffalo is a bad loss to the Jets away from boiling over. Can you feel it? Can you feel it?????

Falcons (-3.5) over Bears
Another line that seems too obvious. So I'm calling it a trap game, going against the grain and taking it to the bank. Atlanta has too many weapons on offense for Chicago to keep up.

San Diego (-4.5) over Broncos
This is the biggest trap line of the week. If I go 0-3 on these I'll be pissed. But I like this one. I think Denver sees a hangover from it's exciting, emotional win over New England last week. And Phillip Rivers thrives on Monday night. He's due for a big game over a top notch defense.

Last week: 6-8
Overall: 41-35

-The Greek

BJal's Lock du Jour - Sunday, October 18

A couple things about yesterday's Irish game: First and foremost, Charlie Weis needs to recruit faster players on defense, particularly in the secondary. As usual, the Irish run defense was in bend but don't break mode, and they did a nice job shutting down USC when it needed to. But Anthony McCoy, a 6'5 tight end, can't be as open as he was and outrunning defensive backs like he was. Secondly, how do you not score inside the 10 with over 20 seconds left and 4 cracks at the endzone. I couldn't believe that. Championship teams find a way to score there, Notre Dame didn't. There's always next year.

Thankfully for BJal, and my morale, ND covered the spread. Today he entrusts his faith in the Titans (+9) at New England. The only thing going for him is the weather today, meaning it could turn into a ground game. But I will say that the Titans are without their two starting corners, Kerry Collins is their quarterback, they're 0-5, and it's the New England Patriots coming off a loss. Just sayin...

BJal's lock du jour: Titans (+9) at New England
Overall Record: 5-7

-Bess

BJal's Lock du Jour - Saturday, October 17

I've been waiting for today for 2 weeks. Notre Dame-USC at 3:30. As a lot of you have probably figured out by now, there's one team we watch in this house and that's Notre Dame football. Today's game is absolutely huge for several reasons. The Irish haven't beaten USC in 7 years, and most of them haven't been close. There was the Bush Push game a few years back which derailed the Irish's title hopes, and today, Charlie Weis needs this win.

With an impressive victory, the #25 Irish will springboard up the rankings just in time for the BCS standings tomorrow night. The Michigan road victory hurt, especially since the Wolverines are playing like a Pop Warner team now, but there are still a few solid wins down the road that look more enticing than they did at the beginning of the season. Pitt took down Rutgers last night to move to 6-1, their lone loss on the road at NC State, which isn't good, but isn't the end of the world. There's the annual BC game, which is a must win against a decent ACC school, and Stanford at the end of the road, a team on the cusp of the top 25.

But this morning I almost threw up when BJal texted me and said his lock of the day is Notre Dame (+10). How could he do this to me? He's lost 3 in a row and is 4-7 overall now. He's like William H. Macy in the cooler. It's awful. Worse than coming down with the bubonic plague. So now I'm telling myself that he's lost 3 in a row and is due for a win, so hopefully ND covers AND wins outright. Can't wait.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Notre Dame +10 over USC
Overall: 4-7

-Bess

BJal's Lock du Jour - Friday, October 16

Is anybody watching Pedro's masterpiece right now? Why do I feel like we are heading for a Grady Little remake of '03 in an inning or two? Is it because Charlie Manuel kind of looks like Little? Or because it's a 1-0 game right now? Either way, this is going to be fun to watch for the next hour or so.

Anyway, BJal is heading for another losing streak (surprisingly) after USF dropped the ball and forgot it was ranked against Cincy last night. Oh well. Tonight he looks to rebound with Rutgers getting 4 against Pitt. I don't like it. You don't bet against a coach with a mustache like DW. You're just asking for trouble.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Rutgers +4 over Pitt
Overall: 4-6

BJal's Lock du Jour - Thursday, October 15

Tough loss for BJal last night. I was hoping one of two things: Boise State would cover so he could get over .500 or Tulsa would win outright. The latter because Notre Dame needs teams to lose so after they blow out USC on Saturday, they can fly up the ranking and position themselves for one of the most unlikely runs to the National Championship in college football history. I know. I'm a Notre Dame optimist.

Tonight BJal is going South Florida (+3) vs. Cincinnatti. I like this pick, couldn't agree more. And if I had any money to gamble I probably would. Having said that, Cincy will probably jump out to a 42-0 lead in the first half, pull the starters and cruise to an absolute blowout win.

I was going to type more, but I'm still sick and just had snots fly out of my nose as I coughed. Just awful. See ya.

-Bess

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 6

It's been a struggle this year for the "Pick 3." Still searching for the elusive perfect week, here goes nothing...

Bengals (-5) over Texans

Steelers (-14) over Browns

Jaguars (-10) over Rams

No explanations necessary.

Last week: 1-2
Overall: 5-7

-Keefe

SNL Digital Short; On the Ground

I tried just putting the video in the blog, but it came up really small. So just click the link on Andy Samberg's latest creation. From the guy who brought you D in a Box, I'm on a Boat, Mother Lover, & I Jizz in My Pants to name a few. Here is "On the Ground."

http://www.hulu.com/watch/99944/saturday-night-live-digital-short-on-the-ground

-Keefe

BJal's Lock du Jour - Wednesday, October 14

I'm proud, and relieved, to say that BJal has finally reached the .500 mark, as his pick of Louisiana-Monroe (-1) prevailed last night in the team's 16-10 Sun Belt conference victory over Arkansas State. You know you have issues when you're picking games in the Sun Belt, but that's how BJal rolls.

Tonight's pick is Boise State (-9) over Tulsa. I'd write more about this, but I'm still sick and practically laying on my death bed right now. I've called out of work the last two days, my temperature last night was 102.3 and stands at a robust 100.8 this morning. In fact I'm sitting here sweating my bag off as I type this, to the point where I'm leaning back trying not to drip on the laptop. I've felt better, I can tell you this much.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Boise State (-9) over Tulsa
Overall record: 4-4

I'm going to the doctor today...if they give me some cure-all medicine and I'm able to control the sweating, I'm hoping to get something up today about post-season awards for MLB. That remains to be seen. For all I know things will take a turn for the worse and I'll have to start drawing up my will.

-Bess

BJal's Lock du the last two jours

I've been sick as a dog and completely forgot to post BJal's lock du jour yesterday. He did actually take Miami (+1) against the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets!!! In fact, he was so excited about the pick he sent it to me yesterday morning at 6:54am...on a holiday. Unbelievable. Yea I wasn't sleeping. At least he got it right, unlike Rex Ryan, who didn't get it right when it comes to using timeouts during a critical defensive drive at the end of an NFL game.

For tonight, BJal will take Louisiana Monroe (-1.5) over Arkansas State. I'd type more about this, but I'm coughing non-stop and it's taken me about 10 minutes to type this friggin post. I'm going to go back to being sick. Focker, out.

BJal's lock du jour: Louisiana Monroe (-1.5)
Overall record: 3-4

BJal's Lock du Jour - Sunday, October 11

After I saw that BJal won yesterday's Va Tech pick, I couldn't help but think about the lockerroom speech he must be giving today. It has to be reminiscent of Lou Brown in Major League...

"Ok, guys. We've won two games in a row. If we win tonight, its called a winning streak. IT HAS HAPPENED BEFORE."

Let's be honest, even after winning a couple in a row, he's been so bad he can't honestly believe this is anything more than a stroke of luck. Today he's going with the Rams (+10.5) over the Vikings. Jimmy the Greek is taking the Vikings, and I trust the Greek. But hey you never know. It has happened before.

By the way, I woke up this morning and panicked because I didn't have BJal's lock du jour for today. Then he texted me a minute later and I felt relieved. That can't be good.

BJal's lock du jour: Rams (+10.5) over Vikings
Overall: 2-3

-Bess

Jimmy the Greek's Week 5 NFL picks

Last week was a little rough for the Greek. But those will happen. What's important is having a nice bounceback week, and that's what will happen in Week 5. There seem to be a lot of cupcake games for some of the elite teams like the Giants, Vikings, Eagles, Steelers and Colts, but there are a lot of points flying around for the underdogs, as well. It's an interesting week of spreads, but the Greek has them all figured out for you...

Redskins (+3.5) over Panthers
This is a field goal game either way. Both teams suck equally, and the only reason the Panthers are giving up points is because they're at home. I actually think they win this game and get out of their funk. Actually, you know what? This is a trap game, please hold...

Panthers (-3.5) over Redskins
D'Angelo Williams is going to run wild today. You can count on it. The Redskins are awful and won't do a thing on offense. Expect this to be somewhat of a surprising blowout/breakout/turnaround game for the Panthers while Jim Zorn lines himself up to be the first head coach on the chopping block in 2009.

Cowboys (-8.5) over Chiefs
A nice rebound for Romo and the 'boys. The Chiefs are terrible, there's no other way around it. They can't run, and they only score garbage points at the end of games. I'm sure they will again today, but Dallas will have too big of a lead to forfeit the spread.

Steelers (-10.5) over Lions
I don't know if Stafford is playing or not, but even if he is, he won't be 100%. Which is scary considering he's still a ways from being good. Mendenhall is going to feast like he did last week.

Bengals (+8.5) over Ravens
You're classic lose but cover the spread game. If this was in Cincy, the spread wouldn't be so large and I'd be picking the Bengals to win outright. I actually think they still could; they're playing with heavy hearts after the wife of an asst. coach died, and teams like that are always dangerous.

Browns (+5.5) over Bills
Browns will win outright. All signs point to it. The Bills can't pass the football, and their running game has disappeared the last couple weeks. Meanwhile, Derek Anderson has found a favorite target in Massaquoi. For some reason I just see them pulling it off.

Bucs (+13.5) over Eagles
Mcnabb will struggle just enough to keep Tampa Bay in it. I wouldn't be suprised if a late TD covers. Bill Simmons wrote about the possibility of what one of his readers called a "moral loss" the other day. That's what the Eagles will have. The opposite of a moral victory.

Vikings (-10.5) over Rams
I want to pick the Rams here as a classic letdown game for Favre and the Vikings after last week's Monday night thriller. But I can't. The game is in a dome, and I think their offense, especially Adrian Peterson, will just light up the scoreboard.

Giants (-15.5) over Raiders
I'd pick the Giants even if David Carr was the quarterback. You can't make this spread big enough.

Falcons (+2.5) over 49ers
I like Mike Singletary and his team, but you can't give the Falcons offense two weeks to prepare for you. They have too many playmakers. It'll be a nice, balanced attack, and the defense will play well in a solid 17-13 victory.

Texans (+5.5) over Cardinals
High scoring game, but the Texans cover. The Cardinals secondary has been shaky, so look for the Texans passing offense to take advantage. Cardinals win though.

Pats (-3.5) over Broncos
I think we'll all be surprised with how easily the Pats win this game. I don't know why, it's just a feeling I have. One thing I do know is that the postgame handshake between Belicheck and McDaniels will be more of a hug. For once, Bill still likes one of his former proteges.

Jags (+0.5) over Seahawks
Another high scoring game. Look for these two teams to have an absolute shootout. I think the Jaguars will have enough of an edge to steal this thing on the road, i.e. MJD3.

Colts (-4.5) over Titans
Peyton Manning will continue his dominance in the air and boost his argument for a 4th MVP.

Jets (-1.5) over Dolphins
I have nothing to say about this game. Perhaps one of the more boring MNF games in a while. Thank god Braylon Edwards got traded to NY. It's the only good storyline they have.

Last week: 5-9
Overall: 35-27

Note: I won't be able to have Tarrific Tara's picks in time for the 1pm games. But she doesn't watch them anyway, so I'll post them later.

-Greek

BJal's Lock du Jour - Saturday, October 10

Welp, I guess sometimes people just get lucky. That's my only reaction after seeing Nevada paste Louisiana Tech 37-14. I honestly started to wonder if BJal would get a lock of the day right, and by god he's done it. To quote the immortal Joe Castiglione, "Can you believe it?!?!"

So today he looks to make it two in a row, and he's going with Virginia Tech (-13.5) hosting Boston College. Last night I told him I thought this game had upset written all over it, I was half in the bag and now I've had a chance to sleep it off, gather my sober thoughts and clearly assess what I think will happen. This game is probably going to be an absolute blowout. B.C. lost to a pedestrian Clemson team 25-7 on the road a few weeks ago, and they struggled at home against very mediocre ACC teams in Wake Forest and Florida State. I don't even know if B.C. will manage to score. This could be a shutout.

In other news, the Red Sox suck and the Yankees will win the World Series. My buddy Kevin put it best last night while we were watching the game...if A-Rod is going to go and do stuff like he did last night - hitting a 700ft moonshot off Joe Nathan in the 9th inning to tie a playoff game - there's no way the Yankees don't win the World Series. In fact, it wouldn't shock me if they just rolled through the rest of the postseason undefeated. This team is scary good, and when one of the best hitters in baseball, with a track record of failing in the postseason, decides to heat up...wow.

Jimmy the Greek will have his Week 5 NFL picks for you by tomorrow morning, so call you bookie and let him know to be on call. Also, I'll be posting postseason awards in the next few days. We had a healthy arguement last night about who should win the AL MVP. I completely disagree with the rest of the world, who thinks Joe Mauer is the easy, sexy pick. So for my awards, I'll break it down by who will win and who I think should win.

-Bess

BJal's Lock du Jour - Friday, October 9

Last night's Missouri loss, at home against Nebraska, ran the season record to 0-3. At this point you have to wonder if BJal could even pick his nose. This is getting bad. Vegas is about to run out odds as to whether BJal will lose more picks in a row than the Lions did games. Could he possibly do it? I almost feel like he should make his pick, then do the complete opposite. Maybe BJal should syndicate this column across all the major papers, websites and betting prognosticators. Once he makes his pick, hardcore gamblers from afar would flock to the casinos or call their bookies and bet their kid's college fund on exact opposite of what he picked with the utmost confidence. I thought about taking up gambling again a few nights ago when he started this. I'd probably be out of debt by now. Instead, I'm sitting here trying to figure when I can make the next payment on my college loan.

But thus, without further ado, Bjal's pick for tonight is Nevada giving up 10.5 to Louisiana Tech. Nevada is 1-3 and I know them for getting shutout and demolished by my Irish back in early September. I know nothing about La Tech except a kid from there transferred to Northeastern a few years ago to play quarterback. They hyped him up like the kid never had to take a shit, and then he threw three picks in the spring game and never saw the field. He transferred out that same year. And they wonder why NU won't win a game this year. It's because they bring in losers like that.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Nevada (-10.5)
Overall record: 0-3

Tito Ortiz v. Forrest Griffin 2 set for UFC 106

Tito Ortiz just announced via his Twitter that he will be fighting Forrest Griffin at UFC106. Griffin is filling in for Mark Coleman, who bowed out with a knee injury. Here's what Tito had to say:

"So the match has been set!!!! Forrest vs Ortiz 2 live Nov 21st Las Vegas PPV. Let the Punishment begin!!!!"

Great job by Joe Silva and kudos to Griffin for accepting the fight. This was a hotly contested match back at UFC59. Tito dominated Forrest in the first frame, bloodying him badly and almost finishing the TUF1 winner. The 2nd round was close and that's more or less where the debate ensues. Griffin came on strong as the fight wore on. It's believe that Tito had an injured knee heading into the fight, and he noticeably lost speed and power on his shots later in the fight and tired quickly. Forrest brought the fight, coming back from near death to almost steal the decision.

It's an intriguing matchup for both fighters beyond their history, as well. Tito is returning after major back surgery following his loss to current champ Lyoto Machida at UFC84. Griffin, meanwhile, has lost his last 2 fights...surrendering his belt to Rashad Evans at UFC92 then being embarrassed by middleweight champ Anderson Silva at UFC101. Should be interesting, I can't wait!

-Bess

Keefe's Pick 3 for Week 5

Alright let's see how we do this week. It's been a struggle a la BJal's "Lock de Jour." Ok it hasn't been that bad. The goal is a perfect 3-0 week. This is how it will happen.

Patriots (-3.5) over Broncos
This game is in Denver and I am aware that Josh McDaniels knows everything about Tom Brady and the Broncos D is the best in the league in terms of points allowed. But 5-0? There's no way Denver can be 5-0. I'm telling you right now this 4-0 team will be 4-4 after 8 games. Remember where you heard it. Pats by 10.

Bengals (+8.5) over Ravens
Taking another road team in this one. I know Cincy had to go to OT to beat Cleveland, but that was a road win, and probably the reason this number is so high. I wouldn't predict an outright win by the Bengals but I do like them to cover the number. Ravens by 7.

Panthers (-3.5) over Redskins
The Skins might be the worst 2-2 team in sports history. Their 2 wins are to the Rams and Bucs, by a combined 5 points, and of course they lost to the Lions, first team to do so in oh 20 games. Carolina is no good either, but at home, with DeAngelo Williams and Steve Smith they should cover the number.

Last Week: 2-1
Overall: 4-5

-Keefe

BJal's Lock du Jour - Thursday, October 8

Here's something you can bet on: what gets canceled faster - Michael Strahan's new sitcom or BJal's Lock du Jour?

The Dodgers took down NH native Chris Carpenter and the Cardinals, running BJal's impressive total to 0-2. Not good. I'd write more about this, but a) I'm disgusted with BJal and b) I have a 9am meeting at work and need to leave.

But for tonight, BJal will again try and get on the winning track, taking #24 Missouri (+3) against #21 Nebraska in a college football game. I think it's probably the right pick, considering the game is in Missouri. This game is tough to pick, however, because neither team has played anyone of meaning aside from the Cornhuskers 16-15 loss at Virginia Tech. That tells me this team is competitive, and I'd probably take them if the game was at home, but this has push written all over it.

Only time will tell, but I'm actually rooting for BJal tonight. His confidence must be waning.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Missouri (+3) v. Nebraska
Overall: 0-2

-Bess

BJal's Lock du Jour - Wednesday, October 7

You know it's funny, when BJal texted me the other day about doing this lock du jour, his original text told me he was taking Troy (-6). I knew nothing about either one of the teams, but one thing I did know is that you never bet against Brad Pitt. So I was a little stunned when he texted me back claiming he misspoke (or mistexted) and that he wanted MTSU (+6). Perhaps that was actually the mistext, or maybe he thought MTSU was getting 60 points and forgot the zero, I dunno. But regardless, Troy ran for 264 and at one point led 24-0 in the 3rd quarter on its way to an embarrassing 31-7 romp. Woops.

So after watching an incredible game between the Twins and Tigers last night, BJal will try and redeem himself and get back on the right track. Personally, my lock of the century is the Yankees absolutely cremating the Twins. In New York. Today. After the Twins ripped through their bullpen in a 12-inning game. Last night. And partied. Celebrating clinching the division. Hangovers.

But that's just me. Instead, he's taking NH native Chris Carpenter and the St. Louis Cardinals over Randy Wolf and the LA Dodgers. Fair enough. And by the way, this should actually be a great series. Two of the top managers in the league in Tony Larussa and Joe Torre squaring off. Manny and Pujols. The Matts, Kemp and Holliday. Adam Wainright, Ryan Franklin's goatee. So much to enjoy about this series.

BJal's Lock du Jour: Cardinals over Dodgers
Overall record: 0-1

-Bess

Mark Coleman pulls out of UFC 106 fight with Tito Ortiz

Less than an hour ago, Tito Ortiz announced via Twitter that he's searching for someone else to beat up at UFC 106:

"Coleman,coleman,coleman to bad he sissies out!!! Who's next??? I'm kicking someone's ass on Nov 21st!" -via Tito Ortiz's Twitter account

Interesting development as this was supposed to be a good barometer for both fighters, particularly The Huntington Beach Bad Boy as he makes his way back from back surgery. Whose ass can he beat now? Ideas, anyone?

-Bess

BJal's Lock du Jour

So I was driving home today when I got a text from my buddy BJal. Some of you may recognize his name, as he's contributed to TSB before. I'll preface this by saying that BJal has what some may call a gambling problem, but we choose to call a passion for betting on sports. He'll bet on an obscure soccer game at 1pm just because it'll be on ESPN2 while he's at work. You can't make this stuff up, but it makes for a good story.

Which leads me back to the text from BJal today. He asked if he could post a daily "Lock of the Day". I actually liked the idea for a couple reasons. First off, it gives him something to do. Second, it allows me to track his gambling success rate. And thrice, it gives you, the readers, more material to read and enjoy. I talked with Keefe and we both said yea, what the hell we'll do it.



And thus, much like a restaurant serves up a "World's best cup of coffee" or "Award winning clam chowder", we'll try and pawn off his addiction as a legitimate daily betting tip.

BJal doesn't like the odds for Brad Pitt and the men of Troy. Is he full of shit?

Starting tonight, you will be treated to a daily (or more or less daily) segment called BJal's Lock du Jour. We'll track his record every day as he gambles on one pick per night, any sport, any game. And in typical BJal fashion, he's opening up with a real douzy...this more or less sums up who the guy is. Tomorrow night on ESPN2 we'll be treated to a riveting college football game between Troy and Middle Tennessee State. I know nothing about these teams except what I just looked up: both teams are 1-0 in Sun Belt Conference play; MTSU (3-1) lost its opener at Clemson 37-14 but stunned Maryland 32-31 a couple weeks ago; Troy is a very uninteresting football team.

That being said, BJal's inaugural Lock du Jour is Middle Tennessee State (+6). Let's see if he can start out on a good note. Enjoy the game and hopefully this segment.

-Bess

Jimmy the Greek's Week 4 NFL picks

Last week was a banner week for the Greek. Not only did I go 13-3 against the spread, but I correctly picked 15 of 16 winners in the Pigskin Pick'em on wgamradio.com and s-t.com. With that success, I won a $50 gift card to Sky Lounge from the boys at WGAM and a $10 gift card to Dunkin Donuts and 2 free passes to Monster Mini-golf from The Standard Times (s-t.com and my hometown paper). Needless to say, I was a happy prognosticator come Tuesday morning.

This week seems a bit tricky, and to be honest, I feel like I could go 14-0 just as easily as going 0-14. Let's hold our collective breaths...

Colts (-6.5) over Seahawks
Despite the coaching changes, injury to Gonzalez and departure of Marvin Harrison, Peyton Manning is showing why he's a 3-time MVP. This guy could throw for 4,000 yards and 35 TD's if Besse and Keefe were flanked out wide. Seattle is decimated by injuries (again), particularly on defense. See ya later.

Bengals (-5.5) over Browns
I love this Bengals team. Chad OchoCinco is one of the great personalities of the NFL, and he seems rejuvenated and ready to lead this team to the playoffs with a healthy Carson Palmer. The Browns may not win a game in 2009, so who's to think the Bengals can't cover a measily 5.5?

Pats (-2.5) over Ravens
In Week 2, Phillip Rivers threw for over 400 yards against this Ravens secondary. I think Tom Brady comes close to that. This Ravens team is good, don't get me wrong, but they've played the Browns, Chiefs and Chargers. San Diego is the best of that weak bunch, and it took a Ray Lewis miracle stop on 4th down to do it. My buddy Kevin told me he saw an interview with Lewis where he said he wasn't supposed to blitz there...he saw them run that play in film study and just jumped it. That's brilliant, and so is Lewis.

Lions (+10.5) over Bears
I think the Bears win this, but the 10.5 scares me because it has 27-17 written all over it. The Lions will score, but so will da Bears. Forte should get it going and Cutler is finding his rhythm. I like the Lions to cover though.

Texans (-9.5) over Raiders
If Jamarcus Russell of today went back in time and played Notre Dame in the 2006 Sugar Bowl, would LSU still win that game? I honestly don't think so. Look for the Texans to light up the scoreboard, and Steve Slaton to finally find paydirt.

Giants (-9.5) over Chiefs
This could get really, really ugly. The Chiefs suck, plain and simple.

Titans (-2.5) over Jaguars
The Titans run defense should bend but not break against an elite back like MJD3, and I think the same will go for the secondary. The difference will be the Titans offense. The Jaguars D is just as bad, if not worse, and I expect Tennessee to finally hit the win column. This has been a brutal schedule thus far, but a solid showing against a good Jets team means they're turning the corner.

Redskins (-6.5) over Bucs
Tampa Bay has a new head coach, who went and fired his O-coordinator 2 weeks before the season, then benched his quarterback for a guy who races on the NASCAR circuit. I don't who they're playing or how many points they're getting. No thanks.

Jets (+6.5) over Saints
Saints win, Jets cover in an awesome to watch shoot out.

Bills (-2.5) over Dolphins
If Pennington was the QB, I take the Dolphins. But I don't know much about Chad Henne as an NFL quarterback. Which sucks, because after watching Pierre Thomas light up the Bills defense last week, I would love to bank on Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. I think they both perform well, but Buffalo should at least cover.

Rams (+9.5) over 49ers
I think we see a slight letdown from last week's shocking, last second loss to the Vikings for Mike Singletary's club. I think San Francisco will either survive a scare or lose outright, especially with Frank Gore still ailing and out for today's game.

Broncos (+3.5) over Cowboys
A true test to gauge where both teams are at. The potent Cowboys offense against a Broncos D that has been solid so far, but perhaps overachieving? And on the flip side, Kyle Orton has yet to turn the ball over. But Dallas played well last week against Carolina, finally getting its first sack. Is it finding its rhythm on D?

Chargers (+6.5) over Steelers
Ugh, this has trap game written all over it. SD getting these points seems too easy. What do they know that we don't? I'm going to be a sucker and take the points. Pitt's D is still suspect and the offense will be slowed without Willie Parker.

Packers (+3.5) over Vikings
I'm sick of Brett Favre and his antics, and the fact that the media continue to stroke his ego. I'll be rooting for Aaron Rodgers all night long.

Last week: 13-3
Overall: 30-18

Tarrific Tara's picks:

Colts
Browns
Patriots
Da Bears
Texans
Giants
Titans
Redskins
Jets
Dolphins
Rams
Cowboys
Steelers
Vikings

Last week: 11-5
Overall: 18-14

Enjoy the games.

-Greek

NHL Preview (sort of)

I am going to try and follow hockey a little more closely this year. It was never my favorite sport, but from 1994-2004 I would have categorized myself as a fan. Then two things happened. A strike prevented play in the 2004-2005 season, and then the very next year the Boston Bruins traded Joe Thornton. He became the only player in the history of sports to be traded during the season and win the MVP. Think about that for a second. You made it out of that still a Bruins fan, god bless you.

I already liked the NBA, NFL, MLB, and college football and basketball more, so when you combine a missed season with trading away an MVP then forget it. Throw in the fact that they didn't re-sign my favorite Bruin ever, Bill Guerin after a 40+ goal season, and I had enough.

But even with all of that, I will always have NHL 95 for SEGA. No matter what happens that game remains on of the best games of all time. Not just a sports game, not just a SEGA game, but one of the best video games of all time. (5 Best SEGA games = NHL 95, NBA Jam, Mortal Kombat, Sonic, ToeJam & Earl)

The Bruins open up the 2009-2010 season tonight, and I'm going to go back to a time when I enjoyed hockey the most, 1994-1995. Here are my predictions for that season... you know if The Sports Brief existed 14-15 years ago.

Prince of Wales Trophy: Boston Bruins

Clarence S Campbell Bowl: Detroit Red Wings

Stanley Cup: Boston Bruins

Individual Trophies:
Hart (MVP): Cam Neely, Bruins
Lady Byng (sportsmanship): Wayne Gretzky, Kings
Vezina (goalie): Ed Belfour, Blackhawks
Ross (points): Jeremy Roenick, Blackhawks
Norris (defense): Ray Bourque, Bruins
Conn Smythe (playoffs MVP): Adam Oates, Bruins
Selke (D-forward): Ron Francis, Penguins


All-Star 1st Team:
G- Ed Belfour, Blackhaws
D- Ray Bourque, Bruins
D- Paul Coffey, Red Wings
LW- Brendan Shanahan, Red Wings
C- Jeremy Roenick, Blackhawks
RW- Cam Neely

All-Star 2nd Team:
G- Martin Broduer, Devils
D- Chris Chelios, Blackhawks
D- Brian Leetch, Rangers
LW- John LeClair, Flyers
C- Joe Sakic, Nordiques
RW- Brett Hull, Blues


-Keefe

As for my pick 3, since I'm doing terrible, not explanations this week, just the picks.

Bengals (-6) over Browns
Giants (-9) over Chiefs
Bears (-10) over Lions

Last week: 1-2
Overall: 2-4