Anybody watch “The Office” last night? Easily a top five episode of all time full of great moments. My personal favorite was when Kelly hit the floor like a bag of bricks during the weigh-in. Michael Klump was pretty ridiculous, as well. You could probably list a hundred different enjoyable tidbits from that episode and still leave something out.
The Jim/Pam proposal was a bittersweet moment for me, though. Tara had predicted at the end of last season that Jim not proposing meant they were going to have the two of them drift apart in Season 5. I refused to believe it, but when I saw Pam go off to Design school, the writing was on the wall. Then there was the scene where that dork commented on his “ex-girlfriend” being right behind them, pleading that no one look. Obviously they did and it turned out to be an 80-year old professor. I called it on the spot that Pam would get with that guy because he was just like Jim. Tara refused to agree, saying it wouldn’t be the jokester from the hallway, so we bet a dinner at Turner’s on it. Moments later Jim and Pam were having trouble making plans and Jim mentioned they hadn’t seen each other in 10 days. I gave a fist pump and an “I told you so” across the couch, then ate my foot when he dropped to a knee outside the gas station in the pouring rain. Pretty solid work on Jim’s part, I give him credit. But I’m wondering if this nullifies our bet or if I’ve lost. I argue that Tara and I both agreed they would drift apart, and the bet was on whether or not Pam would get with that geek from the hallway. Regardless, I’m pissed I didn’t win the bet. I thought I had that one pegged from a mile away.
Onto the picks…
Keefe and I tied last week, but he maintains honors due to his victory in Week 2. For Random Rob, I put four pieces of paper in a cup with the words “Home”, “Away”, “Favorite” and “Underdog” on them. Each game I drew one of the slips out of the cup and based on the word, selected a team to which that word applied. For example, I drew “Underdog” for the Browns/Bengals tilt, so the Browns got the nod since they are getting 3.5 points.
Keefe’s picks
Last week: 10-6
Overall: 26-21
Browns +3.5 over Bengals
Battle of 0-3 teams from Ohio. Derek Anderson could very well be playing for his job, remember last year’s battle with 11 TDs in the air? Expect a lot of points once again.
Vikings +3.5 over Titans
Vikings great run D will make Chris Johnson and Lendale White much less effective thus making Kerry Collins open it up, may very well equal their first loss.
Broncos -9.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs might just be the worst team in football not named the Rams. Cutler and Marshall continue their record breaking ways.
49ers +6.5 over Saints
I expect another high scoring affair here. No Coleston, no Shockey, no cover.
Cardinals +2.5 over Jets
You see the Jets on MNF? Not as good as I predicted them to be. Darrelle Revis is good, but he can’t stop both Fitzgerald and Boldin.
Packers +1.5 over Buccaneers
Is Brian Griese going to throw the ball 67 times again? He might, no Al Harris will be a big loss for the Packers’ D, but not enough in this one.
Falcons +7.5 over Panthers
I like Michael Turner. The sneaky Falcons will at least keep this one close.
Texans +7.5 over Jaguars
I know the Jags finally won a game last weekend, but I am not a fan. I think they’re the most over hyped team in football. Texans have struggled, but I think their defense keep them in it.
Chargers -7.5 over Raiders
Chargers made some plays on D last week. LT doesn’t look 100%, but Sproles does and the Raiders are terrible. Is Lane Kiffin still the coach?
Bills -8.5 over Rams
Buffalo 4-0? Looks like it. What quarter does Trent Green get hurt? I’ll do middle of the 3rd. Keep an eye on this.
Cowboys -11.5 over Redskins
Dallas certainly looks like the best team in football after the first 3 weeks. Despite a division game, I think they still roll.
Eagles -3.5 over Bears
The NFC East may have 3 of the top 5 teams in all of football. Donovan will get back on track passing the ball after a grind it out victory over the Steelers last week.
Ravens +7.5 over Steelers
Monday Night Football could be ugly with Joe Flacco at the helm. But no Willie Parker, can Mendenhall hold on to the ball? The Ravens could even go 3-0, not as bad a game as I first thought.
Besse’s picks
Last week: 10-6
Overall: 25-22
Browns +3.5 over Bengals
I think Cincy wins on a late field goal. But bet the Over and bet it heavy. This has the makings of another wild shootout, much like last year’s game. Anderson will save his job for another week, but Palmer, Housh and Ocho get the best of the Browns.
Vikings +3.5 over Titans
Vikings defense is potent and will not only shut down the run, but force Kerry Collins into some ill-advised throws. Low scoring affair here, but the Vikings win outright.
Broncos -9.5 over Chiefs
Shannon Sharpe may need to call the National Guard for this one, much like he did against the Pats several years ago. It will be ugly in so many ways.
Saints -6.5 over 49ers
I love the way the Saints played last week in a heartbreaking loss to the Broncos. At home against the 49ers, I think it’s a shootout but Brees and Bush will pull ahead late and cover.
Cardinals +2.5 over Jets
I don’t like the Cardinals traveling cross country for the second straight week, but I don’t like the Jets, period. Warner and Co. will light up the skies and Favre’s bum ankle won’t be able to keep pace. Cardinals secondary has been stingy, by the way. Anyone else notice that yet?
Bucs -1.5 over Packers
Jon Gruden is proving himself once again as one of the best, and most underrated coaches in the game. His defense will prevail in this one, pressuring Aaron Rodgers much like the Cowboys did last week.
Panthers -7.5 over Falcons
Panthers have kept Tomlinson, Forte and Peterson at bay the first three weeks of the season. They’ll load up 7 or 8 in the box this week and force Matt Ryan to make some uncomfortable throws. And Steve Smith will break out.
Jaguars -7.5 over Texans
Jaguars at home coming off a big win over Indy. I don’t expect a let down. The running game will have another big week and cover in a mini shootout.
Chargers -7.5 over Raiders
Lane Kiffin has kept the Raiders competitive in Week 2 and 3 and should probably be 2-1 right now. Regardless, his team will get lit up by San Diego and give Al Davis a reason to fire him. I don’t agree with the rumors swirling around Kiffin’s firing now and I won’t agree with it when it happens, either.
Rams +8.5 over Bills
Rams will win outright in a big upset. This could be a track meet in St. Louis, and while I’m concerned for Trent Green’s livelihood this week, I think he’ll survive and win.
Redskins +11.5 over Cowboys
Dallas has made some careless mistakes and shown flashes of vulnerability. I still think they’re the best team in the NFL and the favorite to win the Super Bowl, but the Redskins will put up a fight. The outcome won’t be decided until the final minutes, so look for the Skins to cover.
Eagles -3.5 over Bears
The Bears should really draft a quarterback this year. A good one. This is a great matchup for Philly, and whether Westbrook plays or not won’t really matter. Buckhalter is as good a back as any in this league when healthy, so the offense shouldn’t skip a beat.
Ravens +7.5 over Steelers
This could be as bad a Monday Night game as we’ve seen in a longtime. Flacco at QB, Big Ben playing hurt and Willie Parker out. It will be exciting only because neither team will be able to score and thus it will be close. Bet your mortgage on the under.
Random Rob’s picks
Last week: 8-8
Overall: 29-18
Browns
Titans
Broncos
Saints
Cardinals
Packers
Panthers
Jaguars
Chargers
Bills
Cowboys
Eagles
Ravens
-Bess
Friday, September 26, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
David Blaine: What the?
First off let me say I am an absolute fan of card tricks and all that stuff. If David Blaine or any other person who had just read a book on card tricks walked up to me, I would be entertained for hours. So when DB (you got to like how they made his initials look like a spade last night), does his Street Magic, I'm in. During his primetime special for "Dive of Death," which I'll get into, they showed close to 2 hours of his performances on the street. And I mean on the street. You see some of these crowds he found? It could be considered magic that he survived. Regardless I was just as blown away as everyone else by the money tricks, card mind f's, and lottery ticket predictions. Let's face it, the stuff he's doing is out there, and I have no idea how he does it. But that's where it should end for D. Blaine.
Instead you got a guy who stands in a block of ice for days, stands on a pole high above the Earth, attempts to hold his breath for a NFL quarter, and then last night this "Dive of Death." Did they ever explain the point to this? Ok I get that he hung like a bat upside down for 60 hours... or so we were told. Apparently he was up there less than 50 minutes on this past Monday when he was standing upright. He got water breaks and time to releave himself. That's not magic, that's precautionary. I don't get it. John Saunders, the reluctant MC for the night, made a brief mention of people who had been in Central Park and seen Blaine standing, but according to the distinguished doctors on hand (where did they find these guys), they said that he was never upright long enough to completely orient his body. Ok, fine.
After the "60*" hours was up, Blaine was hoisted into a crane and placed atop the 44 foot apparatice. The countdown clock ticked down, all that remained was the "Dive of Death." So, what was he going to do again? Just dump onto the platform? Well I certainly didn't know, no one ever said what was supposed to happen. With everyone watching Blaine took a step off and started to fall, it didn't take long until you could see the cable attached to him. What the? Blaine briefly touches the giant base only to be pulled gently back up to the sky. Not only did we not know if this was the plan of attack, but they obviously failed to mention any of this to Saunders, who as Besse pointed out, gave the awkward and ultimately premature "That was amazing."
Was it amazing? Maybe the fact that people looked on for hours in Central Park to witness... whatever that was, could be considered amazing. Saunders continued, "and like that he disappears into the atmosphere." Come on. Next thing you know, ABC is running the credits on the screen as I wait for answers that never came.
According to David Blaine himself, who was on with the smoking hot Kelly Ripa and the ageless Regis today, he said, he was supposed to jump and, at 10 feet, be swept away by a bunch of helium-filled balloons. Really? Maybe it's better it didn't work out. How is that any better? What a disaster. "Dive of Death?" with balloons. What is he, a clown now? I just don't get it. Stick to street magic David.
What card am I thinking of?
-Keefe
Instead you got a guy who stands in a block of ice for days, stands on a pole high above the Earth, attempts to hold his breath for a NFL quarter, and then last night this "Dive of Death." Did they ever explain the point to this? Ok I get that he hung like a bat upside down for 60 hours... or so we were told. Apparently he was up there less than 50 minutes on this past Monday when he was standing upright. He got water breaks and time to releave himself. That's not magic, that's precautionary. I don't get it. John Saunders, the reluctant MC for the night, made a brief mention of people who had been in Central Park and seen Blaine standing, but according to the distinguished doctors on hand (where did they find these guys), they said that he was never upright long enough to completely orient his body. Ok, fine.
After the "60*" hours was up, Blaine was hoisted into a crane and placed atop the 44 foot apparatice. The countdown clock ticked down, all that remained was the "Dive of Death." So, what was he going to do again? Just dump onto the platform? Well I certainly didn't know, no one ever said what was supposed to happen. With everyone watching Blaine took a step off and started to fall, it didn't take long until you could see the cable attached to him. What the? Blaine briefly touches the giant base only to be pulled gently back up to the sky. Not only did we not know if this was the plan of attack, but they obviously failed to mention any of this to Saunders, who as Besse pointed out, gave the awkward and ultimately premature "That was amazing."
Was it amazing? Maybe the fact that people looked on for hours in Central Park to witness... whatever that was, could be considered amazing. Saunders continued, "and like that he disappears into the atmosphere." Come on. Next thing you know, ABC is running the credits on the screen as I wait for answers that never came.
According to David Blaine himself, who was on with the smoking hot Kelly Ripa and the ageless Regis today, he said, he was supposed to jump and, at 10 feet, be swept away by a bunch of helium-filled balloons. Really? Maybe it's better it didn't work out. How is that any better? What a disaster. "Dive of Death?" with balloons. What is he, a clown now? I just don't get it. Stick to street magic David.
What card am I thinking of?
(Week 4 NFL picks coming tomorrow)
-Keefe
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
KO clips of the Week
We here at The Brief apologize for the brief hiatus from our highly revered KO Clips of the Week segment. It's been busy times, but we assure you we'll try not to go too long in between postings from here on out. But enough of the sappy monologue, let's get to the knockouts!!!
Here's a personal favorite of mine - thanks to Scotty Chourico for filling in the details on this puppy. Back during my days at New Bedford High we were in the Me & Ed's parking lot in the South End hanging out when some guy pulled up and started yelling at some kid Abram, who happened to be sitting in his car. The guy was obviously pissed off, repeatedly screaming "Where my loot nigga!?!" while "A-bum" put his windows up and locked the doors. But he forgot to close the sunroof. Before we knew it, homeboy was up on the roof foot-stomping the poor bastard. Thankfully he didn't end up like this guy...
This next clip is an MMA fight with one of the more brutal ending I've ever seen. The guy on his back is trying to lock in a reverse triangle, which is nothing short of ridiculous. Unfortunately, the guy on top was a lot stronger than he thought. I can't believe this guy didn't die.
And finally, this may be the gem of the week. Caught on film in New Orleans, this guy was having the time of his life until he got too tough for his own good. Not only does he get KTFO'd once, but he goes back for more. Enjoy the "Blind Date" style captions, and please enjoy the color commentary from the people on the street, particularly the black guy in the red shirt.
Feel free to send us any of your favorite KO clips that we can share. Hope you enjoyed.
-Bess
Here's a personal favorite of mine - thanks to Scotty Chourico for filling in the details on this puppy. Back during my days at New Bedford High we were in the Me & Ed's parking lot in the South End hanging out when some guy pulled up and started yelling at some kid Abram, who happened to be sitting in his car. The guy was obviously pissed off, repeatedly screaming "Where my loot nigga!?!" while "A-bum" put his windows up and locked the doors. But he forgot to close the sunroof. Before we knew it, homeboy was up on the roof foot-stomping the poor bastard. Thankfully he didn't end up like this guy...
This next clip is an MMA fight with one of the more brutal ending I've ever seen. The guy on his back is trying to lock in a reverse triangle, which is nothing short of ridiculous. Unfortunately, the guy on top was a lot stronger than he thought. I can't believe this guy didn't die.
And finally, this may be the gem of the week. Caught on film in New Orleans, this guy was having the time of his life until he got too tough for his own good. Not only does he get KTFO'd once, but he goes back for more. Enjoy the "Blind Date" style captions, and please enjoy the color commentary from the people on the street, particularly the black guy in the red shirt.
Feel free to send us any of your favorite KO clips that we can share. Hope you enjoyed.
-Bess
Friday, September 19, 2008
The Sports Brief's Week 3 NFL picks
This week Keefe gets the honors as he edged out myself and Random Rob by one pick. For Week 3, we went to the dartboard for Random Rob’s picks. I threw darts at the board and if it landed on a black space, that signified RR was picking the home team for the game in questions. If it landed on a white space, RR went with the away team for said pick. Bullseyes and misfires (yes, both of which did occur) represented an abstention and thus, a redo.
And here we go…
Keefe
Last Week: 11-4
Overall: 16-15
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs are horrible. Tyler Thigpen is the 3rd starting QB in 3 weeks. Look for Michael Turner have a day somewhere in between his first 2.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
This is the toughest game to pick of the week. The Raiders have looked like 2 completely different teams in the first 2 games. Buffalo is a tough place to play and Trent Edwards is getting more and more comfortable.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Not going to be a pretty game, but that Bears D and Forte get the job done.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
I liked the Texans at the start of the year, after Hurricane Ike they’ll have a lot more on their mind then just football. Plus Kerry Collins is better for that Titan O.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
Carolina is 2-0 and they just got Steve Smith back. Vikings can stuff the run, so it’s the perfect time to get back one of the premier wideouts in the league.
Dolphins +12.5 over Patriots
Don’t get me wrong, the Pats improve to 3-0 this weekend. But after a 7 point win over the hapless Chiefs and a 9 point win over the Jets, why should I think they beat the Phins by 13?
Giants -13.5 over Bengals
Will Carson Palmer throw a TD this week? It won’t matter, the Bengals can’t stop anyone.
Cardinals +3.5 over Redskins
Kurt Warner and the surprise Cards keep on keepin’ on.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Saints may want to guard Brandon Marshall. He only had 18 grabs last week. I think Drew Brees does enough to keep it close, somehow there is no “D” is Denver… think about it.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
I got J.T. O’Sullivan going in one of my fantasy teams, so I can’t go against them here against the terrible Lions.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
This is a big spread for such a bad team. Hasselbeck gets round 2 of Koren Robinson in Seattle and Keary Colbert. Not great, but the Rams may very well be the worst team in football. Let the St. Louis or USC debates begin.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
The Browns have to turn it around, right? Anderson, Braylon, Winslow, Jamal Lewis… let’s go! Big game for Romeo.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
2 of the best teams after the first 2 weeks, and a Pennsylvania civil war. I’ll take McNabb in a bounce back game.
Jaguars +5.5 over Colts
I don’t like the Jags, said so at the start of the year. They will miss the playoffs. But without Bob Sanders I don’t see the Colts winning by more than 6. I expect a close one.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
Cowboys in primetime again. Another great match up here, with 2 of the best teams in the NFC. Packers D will have their work cut out.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
Brett Favre on Monday Night! Yeah, I’m over it too. San Diego is winless, they’ll come out fast and put away the Bretts early.
Besse
Last Week: 9-6
Overall: 15-16
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Not only should the running game resemble that of Week 1, but the Chiefs could have Keefe under center come week 4.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
If the Raiders didn’t have to travel so damn far, I might have them covering here despite the fact that both Fargas and McFadden could be out. Bush can play, too, you know. Bills are a better football team, period.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Bears D could have a field day on this offense. They might actually look impressive as a team this week.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
Something tells me Kerry Collins will be the quarterback of this team for the rest of the season. They’re better with him under center. Texans are facing adversity on and off the field. Tough draw.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
AP may be out, and Steve Smith returns for the Panthers. Not a good combination for the Vikings.
Patriots -12.5 over Dolphins
Cassel will open it up with Moss downfield and torch the Dolphins D.
Bengals +13.5 over Giants
I still think the Bengals can turn this offense around. But the Giants will torch that defense. This could actually be a shootout, and I think the Giants win but fail to cover.
Redskins -3.5 over Cardinals
Long trip for Warner and the Cards. They’ll make a game of it, but the Redskins looked much better last week and will continue to improve in a solid win here.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Highest scoring game of the week with both defenses better off staying home. Broncos punch one in late again to improve to 3-0.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
49ers get another bad defense this week and should capitalize. Kitna will most likely throw for 300 yards, but he’ll probably toss another 3 picks out there, too.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
Hasselbeck and the Seahawks get to forget about their offensive woes for one week, looking like a legitimate offense with practice squad wideouts against the Rams.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
I like Cleveland to gut one out against the Ravens here.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
Should be a terrific football game. Too bad it’s not on primetime. Reggie Brown may be back for the Eagles, and Mcnabb and Westbrook should had enough tricks in their bag to prevail here.
Colts -5.5 over Jags
Colts will pull out a solid victory and send Jacksonville to 0-3. Sadly, I had the Jags winning the division. Woops.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
I love TO.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
This could be a fun game for both offenses. I like to think that the Chargers are just a better football team, though, whether Tomlinson is there or not. Sproles is explosive and should help maintain a nice rhythm on offense.
Random Rob
Last week: 9-6
Overall: 21-10
Falcons (-4.5)
Bills (-8.5)
Bears (-3.5)
Titans (-4.5)
Vikings (-3.5)
Pats (-12.5)Giants (-13.5)
Cardinals (+3.5)
Saints (+5.5)
Lions (+4.5)
Rams (+9.5)
Ravens (-1.5)
Steelers (+2.5)
Colts (-5.5)
Packers (+2.5)
Chargers (-8.5)
And here we go…
Keefe
Last Week: 11-4
Overall: 16-15
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Chiefs are horrible. Tyler Thigpen is the 3rd starting QB in 3 weeks. Look for Michael Turner have a day somewhere in between his first 2.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
This is the toughest game to pick of the week. The Raiders have looked like 2 completely different teams in the first 2 games. Buffalo is a tough place to play and Trent Edwards is getting more and more comfortable.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Not going to be a pretty game, but that Bears D and Forte get the job done.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
I liked the Texans at the start of the year, after Hurricane Ike they’ll have a lot more on their mind then just football. Plus Kerry Collins is better for that Titan O.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
Carolina is 2-0 and they just got Steve Smith back. Vikings can stuff the run, so it’s the perfect time to get back one of the premier wideouts in the league.
Dolphins +12.5 over Patriots
Don’t get me wrong, the Pats improve to 3-0 this weekend. But after a 7 point win over the hapless Chiefs and a 9 point win over the Jets, why should I think they beat the Phins by 13?
Giants -13.5 over Bengals
Will Carson Palmer throw a TD this week? It won’t matter, the Bengals can’t stop anyone.
Cardinals +3.5 over Redskins
Kurt Warner and the surprise Cards keep on keepin’ on.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Saints may want to guard Brandon Marshall. He only had 18 grabs last week. I think Drew Brees does enough to keep it close, somehow there is no “D” is Denver… think about it.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
I got J.T. O’Sullivan going in one of my fantasy teams, so I can’t go against them here against the terrible Lions.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
This is a big spread for such a bad team. Hasselbeck gets round 2 of Koren Robinson in Seattle and Keary Colbert. Not great, but the Rams may very well be the worst team in football. Let the St. Louis or USC debates begin.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
The Browns have to turn it around, right? Anderson, Braylon, Winslow, Jamal Lewis… let’s go! Big game for Romeo.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
2 of the best teams after the first 2 weeks, and a Pennsylvania civil war. I’ll take McNabb in a bounce back game.
Jaguars +5.5 over Colts
I don’t like the Jags, said so at the start of the year. They will miss the playoffs. But without Bob Sanders I don’t see the Colts winning by more than 6. I expect a close one.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
Cowboys in primetime again. Another great match up here, with 2 of the best teams in the NFC. Packers D will have their work cut out.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
Brett Favre on Monday Night! Yeah, I’m over it too. San Diego is winless, they’ll come out fast and put away the Bretts early.
Besse
Last Week: 9-6
Overall: 15-16
Falcons -4.5 over Chiefs
Not only should the running game resemble that of Week 1, but the Chiefs could have Keefe under center come week 4.
Bills -8.5 over Raiders
If the Raiders didn’t have to travel so damn far, I might have them covering here despite the fact that both Fargas and McFadden could be out. Bush can play, too, you know. Bills are a better football team, period.
Bears -3.5 over Buccaneers
Bears D could have a field day on this offense. They might actually look impressive as a team this week.
Titans -4.5 over Texans
Something tells me Kerry Collins will be the quarterback of this team for the rest of the season. They’re better with him under center. Texans are facing adversity on and off the field. Tough draw.
Panthers +3.5 over Vikings
AP may be out, and Steve Smith returns for the Panthers. Not a good combination for the Vikings.
Patriots -12.5 over Dolphins
Cassel will open it up with Moss downfield and torch the Dolphins D.
Bengals +13.5 over Giants
I still think the Bengals can turn this offense around. But the Giants will torch that defense. This could actually be a shootout, and I think the Giants win but fail to cover.
Redskins -3.5 over Cardinals
Long trip for Warner and the Cards. They’ll make a game of it, but the Redskins looked much better last week and will continue to improve in a solid win here.
Saints +5.5 over Broncos
Highest scoring game of the week with both defenses better off staying home. Broncos punch one in late again to improve to 3-0.
49ers -4.5 over Lions
49ers get another bad defense this week and should capitalize. Kitna will most likely throw for 300 yards, but he’ll probably toss another 3 picks out there, too.
Seahawks -9.5 over Rams
Hasselbeck and the Seahawks get to forget about their offensive woes for one week, looking like a legitimate offense with practice squad wideouts against the Rams.
Browns +1.5 over Ravens
I like Cleveland to gut one out against the Ravens here.
Eagles -2.5 over Steelers
Should be a terrific football game. Too bad it’s not on primetime. Reggie Brown may be back for the Eagles, and Mcnabb and Westbrook should had enough tricks in their bag to prevail here.
Colts -5.5 over Jags
Colts will pull out a solid victory and send Jacksonville to 0-3. Sadly, I had the Jags winning the division. Woops.
Cowboys -2.5 over Packers
I love TO.
Chargers -8.5 over Jets
This could be a fun game for both offenses. I like to think that the Chargers are just a better football team, though, whether Tomlinson is there or not. Sproles is explosive and should help maintain a nice rhythm on offense.
Random Rob
Last week: 9-6
Overall: 21-10
Falcons (-4.5)
Bills (-8.5)
Bears (-3.5)
Titans (-4.5)
Vikings (-3.5)
Pats (-12.5)Giants (-13.5)
Cardinals (+3.5)
Saints (+5.5)
Lions (+4.5)
Rams (+9.5)
Ravens (-1.5)
Steelers (+2.5)
Colts (-5.5)
Packers (+2.5)
Chargers (-8.5)
Friday, September 12, 2008
The Sports Brief's Week 2 NFL Picks
Well it’s Friday and we’re just two days away from Week 2 in the NFL. A few interesting matchups lie ahead, particularly the Pats-Jets, Broncos-Chargers, Browns-Steelers and of course, the Cowboys and Eagles on Monday night. Meanwhile, will teams like the Jaguars, Colts, and Seahawks drop to 0-2? And how will the Patriots fare without Tom Brady as they visit, as Keefe so aptly put it, the New York Bretts.
Random Ron took it down last week with 12 correct picks, while myself (6) and Keefe (5) turned in miserable efforts. As in golf, honors go to Ron, whose picks this week come from my girlfriend Tara. I e-mailed her the matchups with spreads and asked her to BOLD her picks. She chose to highlight them in pink and send them back. The picks were sent to her at 2:16pm and I received them at 2:18pm; that should give you an idea as to how much time and effort she put in.
Random Rob:
Last week: 12-4
Redskins (-0.5) over Saints
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
Raiders (+3.5) over Chiefs
Bengals (-1.5) over Titans
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Bucs (-8.5) over Falcons
Jets (-2.5) over Patriots
Cardinals (-6.5) over Dolphins
Chargers (-3.5) over Broncos
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Keefe’s picks:
Last week: 5-11
Saints +.5 over Redskins
Even without Colston I like the Saints to grab a road win.
Bills +6.5 over Jaguars
Bills were impressive vs. Seattle, and Jax is the most overrated team in football, in my opinion.
Chiefs -3.5 over Raiders
Damon Huard another back up getting the start, but did you see the Raiders last Monday?
Titans +1.5 over Bengals
No Vince Young may actually help Tennessee, and Cincy is a mess.
Colts -1.5 over Vikings
Colts can’t lose back-to-back NFC North games, can they?
Giants -8.5 over Rams
Just when you thought the Raiders were the worst team in football… here come the Rams.
Bears +3.5 over Panthers
Bears D came to play against the Colts, maybe they’re not done.
Packers -2.5 over Lions
Let the Aaron Rodgers band wagon continue to grow.
49ers +8.5 over Seahawks
Who is going to catch passes in Seattle?
Falcons +8.5 over Buccaneers
Garcia says he’s healthy, but still not getting the start. Let’s see if Michael “the Burner” Turner can keep it rolling.
Patriots +2.5 over Jets
So weird to see the Pats as underdogs. No Brady, but still a plethora of Pro Bowlers on this team to take down the New York Bretts.
Cardinals -6.5 over Dolphins
Miami has to travel cross country to go to 0-2. Pennington makes them much more respectable than last year, but it Cards still beat them up.
Broncos +3.5 over Chargers
Good rivalry here. Cutler gets his favorite target back in Brandon Marshall, to pair with last week’s favorite Eddie Royal. Also Shawn “Lights Out” Merriman… is out.
Browns +5.5 over Steelers
Not sure the Browns will win this game, but they keep it close.
Texans -4.5 over Ravens
Now a Monday night game, I’ll take the home team with their crowd.
Cowboys -6.5 over Eagles
A Terrell Owens TDs, gives the Cowboys the cover.
Besse’s picks:
Last week: 6-10
Saints (+0.5) over Redskins
Colston is out, but Reggie put on a show last week. Expect to see another one. Redskins offense will look better this week, but not good enough.
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
I expect the Jaguars D to thwart the Bills at home here. The offensive line is a bit banged up, but Garrard should find himself with plenty of options to throw to.
Chiefs (-3.5) over Raiders
How bad did the Raiders look on Monday night? Chiefs played tough in New England and should cover here with plenty of LJ and TG.
Titans (+1.5) over Bengals
VY going down was great timing for Week 2. Kerry Collins could light up Cincy, and Palmer and Co. should have just as much trouble with the Titans D as they did with the Ravens last week.
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Tavaris Jackson sucks.
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
The Rams offense is surprisingly bad. The defense is expectedly worse. Manning (of the Eli variety) could have a career day.
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Interesting matchup here. I don’t think the Bears win. But I think a late field goal or garbage Matt Forte TD helps them cover.
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
The Lions are brutal. I question if this is a trap game, but I can’t help but hope Rodgers can pull this one out. Jennings, Driver and Grant in a dome could turn into a track meet against that D.
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Hasselback is out of receivers. And he doesn’t have a running back either. Tough.
Falcons (+8.5) over Bucs
Veteran back-up against a promising rookie. I think Griese should pull out the win, but not by 9. Ryan has a dynamic duo in the backfield taking pressure off of him right now and allowing him a chance to limit mistakes in the passing game. Tough D this week, but I like them to cover.
Patriots (+2.5) over Jets
I can’t root against New England here.
Dolphins (+6.5) over Cardinals
Oddly enough, this could be a shootout. Big fan of Pennington to Fasano, and Warner should have be a great fantasy QB all year long.
Broncos (+3.5) over Chargers
With Merriman out, this Chargers D is in trouble all year long. Marshall is back for Denver, so Cutler has a nice array of receivers with Eddie Royal making a splash.
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Browns were banged up against Dallas and the Steelers are a solid team. I expect to see Big Ben air it out a bit more this week.
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Not sure how the Ravens are getting 4.5 here. This could be a low scoring affair if the Ravens D has its way. Regardless, Flacco should be able to keep it close against a porous D.
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Mcnabb won’t be lighting it up against this pass defense. Romo and TO will make sure the Cowboys make a statement at home on Monday night.
Random Ron took it down last week with 12 correct picks, while myself (6) and Keefe (5) turned in miserable efforts. As in golf, honors go to Ron, whose picks this week come from my girlfriend Tara. I e-mailed her the matchups with spreads and asked her to BOLD her picks. She chose to highlight them in pink and send them back. The picks were sent to her at 2:16pm and I received them at 2:18pm; that should give you an idea as to how much time and effort she put in.
Random Rob:
Last week: 12-4
Redskins (-0.5) over Saints
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
Raiders (+3.5) over Chiefs
Bengals (-1.5) over Titans
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Bucs (-8.5) over Falcons
Jets (-2.5) over Patriots
Cardinals (-6.5) over Dolphins
Chargers (-3.5) over Broncos
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Keefe’s picks:
Last week: 5-11
Saints +.5 over Redskins
Even without Colston I like the Saints to grab a road win.
Bills +6.5 over Jaguars
Bills were impressive vs. Seattle, and Jax is the most overrated team in football, in my opinion.
Chiefs -3.5 over Raiders
Damon Huard another back up getting the start, but did you see the Raiders last Monday?
Titans +1.5 over Bengals
No Vince Young may actually help Tennessee, and Cincy is a mess.
Colts -1.5 over Vikings
Colts can’t lose back-to-back NFC North games, can they?
Giants -8.5 over Rams
Just when you thought the Raiders were the worst team in football… here come the Rams.
Bears +3.5 over Panthers
Bears D came to play against the Colts, maybe they’re not done.
Packers -2.5 over Lions
Let the Aaron Rodgers band wagon continue to grow.
49ers +8.5 over Seahawks
Who is going to catch passes in Seattle?
Falcons +8.5 over Buccaneers
Garcia says he’s healthy, but still not getting the start. Let’s see if Michael “the Burner” Turner can keep it rolling.
Patriots +2.5 over Jets
So weird to see the Pats as underdogs. No Brady, but still a plethora of Pro Bowlers on this team to take down the New York Bretts.
Cardinals -6.5 over Dolphins
Miami has to travel cross country to go to 0-2. Pennington makes them much more respectable than last year, but it Cards still beat them up.
Broncos +3.5 over Chargers
Good rivalry here. Cutler gets his favorite target back in Brandon Marshall, to pair with last week’s favorite Eddie Royal. Also Shawn “Lights Out” Merriman… is out.
Browns +5.5 over Steelers
Not sure the Browns will win this game, but they keep it close.
Texans -4.5 over Ravens
Now a Monday night game, I’ll take the home team with their crowd.
Cowboys -6.5 over Eagles
A Terrell Owens TDs, gives the Cowboys the cover.
Besse’s picks:
Last week: 6-10
Saints (+0.5) over Redskins
Colston is out, but Reggie put on a show last week. Expect to see another one. Redskins offense will look better this week, but not good enough.
Jaguars (-6.5) over Bills
I expect the Jaguars D to thwart the Bills at home here. The offensive line is a bit banged up, but Garrard should find himself with plenty of options to throw to.
Chiefs (-3.5) over Raiders
How bad did the Raiders look on Monday night? Chiefs played tough in New England and should cover here with plenty of LJ and TG.
Titans (+1.5) over Bengals
VY going down was great timing for Week 2. Kerry Collins could light up Cincy, and Palmer and Co. should have just as much trouble with the Titans D as they did with the Ravens last week.
Colts (-1.5) over Vikings
Tavaris Jackson sucks.
Giants (-8.5) over Rams
The Rams offense is surprisingly bad. The defense is expectedly worse. Manning (of the Eli variety) could have a career day.
Bears (+3.5) over Panthers
Interesting matchup here. I don’t think the Bears win. But I think a late field goal or garbage Matt Forte TD helps them cover.
Packers (-2.5) over Lions
The Lions are brutal. I question if this is a trap game, but I can’t help but hope Rodgers can pull this one out. Jennings, Driver and Grant in a dome could turn into a track meet against that D.
49ers (+8.5) over Seahawks
Hasselback is out of receivers. And he doesn’t have a running back either. Tough.
Falcons (+8.5) over Bucs
Veteran back-up against a promising rookie. I think Griese should pull out the win, but not by 9. Ryan has a dynamic duo in the backfield taking pressure off of him right now and allowing him a chance to limit mistakes in the passing game. Tough D this week, but I like them to cover.
Patriots (+2.5) over Jets
I can’t root against New England here.
Dolphins (+6.5) over Cardinals
Oddly enough, this could be a shootout. Big fan of Pennington to Fasano, and Warner should have be a great fantasy QB all year long.
Broncos (+3.5) over Chargers
With Merriman out, this Chargers D is in trouble all year long. Marshall is back for Denver, so Cutler has a nice array of receivers with Eddie Royal making a splash.
Steelers (-5.5) over Browns
Browns were banged up against Dallas and the Steelers are a solid team. I expect to see Big Ben air it out a bit more this week.
Ravens (+4.5) over Texans
Not sure how the Ravens are getting 4.5 here. This could be a low scoring affair if the Ravens D has its way. Regardless, Flacco should be able to keep it close against a porous D.
Cowboys (-6.5) over Eagles
Mcnabb won’t be lighting it up against this pass defense. Romo and TO will make sure the Cowboys make a statement at home on Monday night.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Heisman Update (Week 2)
Week 2, how did they do?
Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia, 2-0
18-28, 213 yards, 2 TDs in 56-17 win over Central Michigan
Total: 31-49, 488 yards, 4 TDs
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri, 2-0
65 total yards, TD in 52-3 win over SE Missouri State
Total: 299 total yards, 2 TDs
Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State, 2-0
DNP
Total: 13 rush, 111 yards, TD
Pat White, QB, West Virginia, 1-1
11-18, 72 yards, 20 rush, 97 yards in 24-3 loss to East Carolina
Total: 280 pass yards, 5 TDs, 160 rush yards
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georiga, 2-0
18 rush, 168 yards, 3 TD, 3 rec., 30 yards in 56-17 win over Central Michigan
Total: 26 rush, 227 yards, 8.7 avg., 6 TDs, 5 rec., 83 yards
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech, 2-0
7 receptions, 158 yards, TD, in 35-19 win over Nevada
Total: 16 rec., 231 yards, 2 TDs
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida, 2-0
21-35, 256 yards, 2 TDs, 13 rush, 55 yards
Total: 393 pass yards, 3 TDs, 92 rush yards
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech, 2-0
19-46, 297 yards, TD, 2 INTs in 35-19 win over Nevada
Total: 833 pass yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs, rush TD
Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia, 2-0
18-28, 213 yards, 2 TDs in 56-17 win over Central Michigan
Total: 31-49, 488 yards, 4 TDs
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri, 2-0
65 total yards, TD in 52-3 win over SE Missouri State
Total: 299 total yards, 2 TDs
Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State, 2-0
DNP
Total: 13 rush, 111 yards, TD
Pat White, QB, West Virginia, 1-1
11-18, 72 yards, 20 rush, 97 yards in 24-3 loss to East Carolina
Total: 280 pass yards, 5 TDs, 160 rush yards
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georiga, 2-0
18 rush, 168 yards, 3 TD, 3 rec., 30 yards in 56-17 win over Central Michigan
Total: 26 rush, 227 yards, 8.7 avg., 6 TDs, 5 rec., 83 yards
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech, 2-0
7 receptions, 158 yards, TD, in 35-19 win over Nevada
Total: 16 rec., 231 yards, 2 TDs
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida, 2-0
21-35, 256 yards, 2 TDs, 13 rush, 55 yards
Total: 393 pass yards, 3 TDs, 92 rush yards
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech, 2-0
19-46, 297 yards, TD, 2 INTs in 35-19 win over Nevada
Total: 833 pass yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs, rush TD
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
The Sports Brief's MMA Rankings (9/9/08)
Once again this is the rankings for all of MMA, but just for the weight classes recognized by the UFC. Not a lot has happened in the ring or octagon since the last rankings besides last weekend’s UFC 88, however many exciting match ups have been scheduled/ rumored for the rest of 2008. Also with so many fighters moving up or down in weight classes (i.e. Anderson Silva, Rich Franklin, Brandon Vera, B.J. Penn, etc.), where do you put them? Besse and I have stated that a fighter must be at least booked to fight in the same division for 2 fights in a row to officially move divisions. Let’s see how the top 10’s look entering football season…
Heavyweight:
1. Fedor Emelianenko
2. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
3. Randy Couture
4. Andrei Arlovski
5. Josh Barnett
6. Tim Sylvia
7. Fabricio Werdum
8. Alistair Overeem
9. Frank Mir
10. Brock Lesnar
Ben Rothwell, Heath Herring, Chiek Kongo, Gabriel Gonzaga, Aleksander Emelianenko, Mirko Cro Cop
Fedor is hurt and will miss the 2nd Affliction show. But how about these fights still to come in the next 2-3 months: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira vs. Frank Mir (December), Andrei Arlovski vs. Josh Barnett (October), and of course the return of the UFC Champ Randy Couture vs. Brock Lesnar (November). And before all of those match ups is one I’m really looking forward to. The on again, off again fight between Alistair Overeem and Mirko Cro Cop is back on, and happening on September 23rd as part of the Dream 6 card. Two former Pride stars going head to head, should be great.
Light Heavyweight:
1. Forrest Griffin
2. Quinton Jackson
3. Lyoto Machida
4. Wanderlei Silva
5. Rashad Evans
6. Maurcio ‘Shogun’ Rua
7. Chuck Liddell
8. Thiago Silva
9. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
10. Keith Jardine
Babalu Sobral, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, Tito Ortiz, Vladimir Matyushenko, Brandon Vera
The only shake up since July’s rankings is right here in the ultra competitive Light Heavyweight division. Rashad Evans (prev. 10th) KTFO of Liddell (prev. 3rd) vaults him up to 5th in our poll. Sugar won’t leap frog everyone, after all his previous highlights were a draw to Tito Ortiz and a win over Michael Bisping who is now a middleweight. Evans now gets the title shot with Forrest in a TUF winners show down. Rumors are circulating that Liddell wants to fight Anderson Silva. Really? Chuck is 1-3 last 4 fights with devastating KOs by Rampage and Evans, a decision loss to Jardine, and a decision win against Wanderlei. His last knockout was back in 2006 vs. Tito, who Dana White says isn’t a good fighter anymore. I would never say anything bad about Liddell in fear that he may read it, but hey Dana everything you’ve said about Tito in the cage is coming back to you in the form of the Iceman. And as for Tito, looked like he was headed to Affliction, then EliteXC, now who knows?
Middleweight:
1. Anderson Silva
2. Matt Lindland
3. Dan Henderson
4. Rich Franklin
5. Paulo Filho
6. Cung Le
7. Robbie Lawler
8. Yushin Okami
9. Nathan Marquardt
10. Frank Trigg
Patrick Cote, Frank Shamrock, Kazuo Misaki, Yoshihiro Akiyama, Thales Leites, Chris Leben. Michael Bisping, Ricardo Almeida, Demian Maia, Gegard Mousasi
Dream 6 on September 23rd features the middleweight grand prix. Not big names but great fighters like Gegard Mousasi set to compete. Rich Franklin beat Matt Hamill at 205, should be interesting to see if he stays up there or comes back down to 185. I’d love to see him fight Dan Henderson, but after a solid win on the same card, Hendo is thinking he can take down A. Silva if given another chance. Problem is, Silva is fighting Patrick Cote coming up then I wouldn’t be surprised if he fights Liddell or another LHW. Also Paulo Filho vs. Chael Sonnen 2 has been pushed back from September to November 5th.
This seems like the best place also to say RIP Evan Tanner. The former UFC middleweight champ was found dead in California. He was 37.
Welterweight:
1. Georges St. Pierre
2. Jon Fitch
3. Jake Shields
4. Thiago Alves
5. Josh Koscheck
6. Diego Sanchez
t-7. Matt Hughes
t-7. Matt Serra
9. Karo Parisyan
10. Carlos Condit
Nick Thompson, Mike Swick, Marcus Davis, Drew Fickett, Jay Hieron
The super fight that everyone is waiting for on Super Bowl weekend will affect the welterweight and lightweight divisions. GSP vs. Penn II. Get excited. Thiago Alves will meet Diego Sanchez next month as well with a title shot looming for the winner. Not sure who Fitch will fight in his first fight back from losing to St. Pierre. Karo was a late scratch from UFC 88. And let’s book Hughes vs. Serra so we can break our tie for 7th here. It’s still amazing to me that guys like Matt Hughes and Chuck Liddell can look so unbeatable, and then in a short time get absolutely worked. That’s the nature of the beast, as they say.
Lightweight:
1. BJ Penn
2. Takanori Gomi
3. Eddie Alverez
4. Joachim Hansen
5. Shinya Aoki
6. JZ Cavalcante
7. Josh Thomson
8. Tatsuya Kawajiri
9. Sean Sherk
10. Gilbert Melendez
Kenny Florian, KJ Noons, Nick Diaz, Victor Ribero, Joe Stevenson, Roger Huerta, Frankie Edgar
As you can see many of the best lightweights fight outside of the UFC. Two of their best, however, will meet in November as Kenny Florian squares off against Joe Stevenson. Ken Flo probably deserves a title shot after beating Huerta, but since Penn is fighting GSP, he doesn’t want to sit around a wait. You have to appreciate that.
Pound 4 Pound
1. Anderson Silva
2. Fedor Emelianenko
3. Georges St. Pierre
4. BJ Penn
5. Urijah Faber
6. Miguel Torres
7. Takanori Gomi
8. Forrest Griffin
9. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
10. Quinton Jackson
Heavyweight:
1. Fedor Emelianenko
2. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
3. Randy Couture
4. Andrei Arlovski
5. Josh Barnett
6. Tim Sylvia
7. Fabricio Werdum
8. Alistair Overeem
9. Frank Mir
10. Brock Lesnar
Ben Rothwell, Heath Herring, Chiek Kongo, Gabriel Gonzaga, Aleksander Emelianenko, Mirko Cro Cop
Fedor is hurt and will miss the 2nd Affliction show. But how about these fights still to come in the next 2-3 months: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira vs. Frank Mir (December), Andrei Arlovski vs. Josh Barnett (October), and of course the return of the UFC Champ Randy Couture vs. Brock Lesnar (November). And before all of those match ups is one I’m really looking forward to. The on again, off again fight between Alistair Overeem and Mirko Cro Cop is back on, and happening on September 23rd as part of the Dream 6 card. Two former Pride stars going head to head, should be great.
Light Heavyweight:
1. Forrest Griffin
2. Quinton Jackson
3. Lyoto Machida
4. Wanderlei Silva
5. Rashad Evans
6. Maurcio ‘Shogun’ Rua
7. Chuck Liddell
8. Thiago Silva
9. Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou
10. Keith Jardine
Babalu Sobral, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, Tito Ortiz, Vladimir Matyushenko, Brandon Vera
The only shake up since July’s rankings is right here in the ultra competitive Light Heavyweight division. Rashad Evans (prev. 10th) KTFO of Liddell (prev. 3rd) vaults him up to 5th in our poll. Sugar won’t leap frog everyone, after all his previous highlights were a draw to Tito Ortiz and a win over Michael Bisping who is now a middleweight. Evans now gets the title shot with Forrest in a TUF winners show down. Rumors are circulating that Liddell wants to fight Anderson Silva. Really? Chuck is 1-3 last 4 fights with devastating KOs by Rampage and Evans, a decision loss to Jardine, and a decision win against Wanderlei. His last knockout was back in 2006 vs. Tito, who Dana White says isn’t a good fighter anymore. I would never say anything bad about Liddell in fear that he may read it, but hey Dana everything you’ve said about Tito in the cage is coming back to you in the form of the Iceman. And as for Tito, looked like he was headed to Affliction, then EliteXC, now who knows?
Middleweight:
1. Anderson Silva
2. Matt Lindland
3. Dan Henderson
4. Rich Franklin
5. Paulo Filho
6. Cung Le
7. Robbie Lawler
8. Yushin Okami
9. Nathan Marquardt
10. Frank Trigg
Patrick Cote, Frank Shamrock, Kazuo Misaki, Yoshihiro Akiyama, Thales Leites, Chris Leben. Michael Bisping, Ricardo Almeida, Demian Maia, Gegard Mousasi
Dream 6 on September 23rd features the middleweight grand prix. Not big names but great fighters like Gegard Mousasi set to compete. Rich Franklin beat Matt Hamill at 205, should be interesting to see if he stays up there or comes back down to 185. I’d love to see him fight Dan Henderson, but after a solid win on the same card, Hendo is thinking he can take down A. Silva if given another chance. Problem is, Silva is fighting Patrick Cote coming up then I wouldn’t be surprised if he fights Liddell or another LHW. Also Paulo Filho vs. Chael Sonnen 2 has been pushed back from September to November 5th.
This seems like the best place also to say RIP Evan Tanner. The former UFC middleweight champ was found dead in California. He was 37.
Welterweight:
1. Georges St. Pierre
2. Jon Fitch
3. Jake Shields
4. Thiago Alves
5. Josh Koscheck
6. Diego Sanchez
t-7. Matt Hughes
t-7. Matt Serra
9. Karo Parisyan
10. Carlos Condit
Nick Thompson, Mike Swick, Marcus Davis, Drew Fickett, Jay Hieron
The super fight that everyone is waiting for on Super Bowl weekend will affect the welterweight and lightweight divisions. GSP vs. Penn II. Get excited. Thiago Alves will meet Diego Sanchez next month as well with a title shot looming for the winner. Not sure who Fitch will fight in his first fight back from losing to St. Pierre. Karo was a late scratch from UFC 88. And let’s book Hughes vs. Serra so we can break our tie for 7th here. It’s still amazing to me that guys like Matt Hughes and Chuck Liddell can look so unbeatable, and then in a short time get absolutely worked. That’s the nature of the beast, as they say.
Lightweight:
1. BJ Penn
2. Takanori Gomi
3. Eddie Alverez
4. Joachim Hansen
5. Shinya Aoki
6. JZ Cavalcante
7. Josh Thomson
8. Tatsuya Kawajiri
9. Sean Sherk
10. Gilbert Melendez
Kenny Florian, KJ Noons, Nick Diaz, Victor Ribero, Joe Stevenson, Roger Huerta, Frankie Edgar
As you can see many of the best lightweights fight outside of the UFC. Two of their best, however, will meet in November as Kenny Florian squares off against Joe Stevenson. Ken Flo probably deserves a title shot after beating Huerta, but since Penn is fighting GSP, he doesn’t want to sit around a wait. You have to appreciate that.
Pound 4 Pound
1. Anderson Silva
2. Fedor Emelianenko
3. Georges St. Pierre
4. BJ Penn
5. Urijah Faber
6. Miguel Torres
7. Takanori Gomi
8. Forrest Griffin
9. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
10. Quinton Jackson
Sunday, September 7, 2008
UFC 88 Results
Rashad Evans def. Chuck Liddell via violent KO - 1:51 of round 2
(You'll see this next on Ultimate Knockouts 6. Watching this on TV you had no idea how long it took the Iceman to get back to his feet. This was vicious. He was out. Not until after Rashad's interview by Joe Rogan did you see Hackelman and the rest of Liddell's corner holding him up ala Weekend at Bernie's or dare I say Weekend at Bernie's II. Just unbelievable. Who fights Forrest now for the Light Heavyweight title? We shall see.)
Rich Franklin def. Matt Hamill via TKO - 0:39 of round 3
Dan Henderson def. Rousimar Palhares via unanimous decision
Nate Marquardt def. Martin Kampmann via TKO - 1:21 of round 1
Dong Hyun Kim def. Matt Brown via split decision
UNDERCARD:
Kurt Pellegrino def. Thiago Tavares via unanimous decision.
Tim Boetsch def. Mike Patt via TKO - 2:03 of round 1.
Jason MacDonald def. Jason Lambert via submission - 1:20 of round 2.
Ryo Chonan def. Roan Carneiro via split decision.
How we did...
Keefe UFC 88 Picks: 8-1, (14-5 overall)
Besse UFC 88 Picks: 5-4, (13-6 overall)
(You'll see this next on Ultimate Knockouts 6. Watching this on TV you had no idea how long it took the Iceman to get back to his feet. This was vicious. He was out. Not until after Rashad's interview by Joe Rogan did you see Hackelman and the rest of Liddell's corner holding him up ala Weekend at Bernie's or dare I say Weekend at Bernie's II. Just unbelievable. Who fights Forrest now for the Light Heavyweight title? We shall see.)
Rich Franklin def. Matt Hamill via TKO - 0:39 of round 3
Dan Henderson def. Rousimar Palhares via unanimous decision
Nate Marquardt def. Martin Kampmann via TKO - 1:21 of round 1
Dong Hyun Kim def. Matt Brown via split decision
UNDERCARD:
Kurt Pellegrino def. Thiago Tavares via unanimous decision.
Tim Boetsch def. Mike Patt via TKO - 2:03 of round 1.
Jason MacDonald def. Jason Lambert via submission - 1:20 of round 2.
Ryo Chonan def. Roan Carneiro via split decision.
How we did...
Keefe UFC 88 Picks: 8-1, (14-5 overall)
Besse UFC 88 Picks: 5-4, (13-6 overall)
Friday, September 5, 2008
UFC 88 predictions
With tomorrow night marking the first time the UFC invades Atlanta, GA, that means it’s time for The Sports Brief to predict the outcomes of each fight. Keefe is busy preparing for his show today, so he was only able to bless us with outcomes. But I’ve included a brief analysis on how I think each fight will play out.
At UFC 87, I went 8-2 with my picks while Rich came in at 6-4. With a lot of close, interesting match-ups on tap for UFC 88, however, those early standings could change quickly. I can’t wait to find out…
Main Event
Chuck Liddell v. Rashad Evans
This is a striker v. wrestler matchup, and Liddell has always had tremendous success in fights like these. Evans is a very accomplished wrestler with an undefeated record, and while he showed some good skills in the 3rd round of his fight against Tito Ortiz, it was a 1-point deduction to Ortiz that kept his unblemished record in tact.
Bottom line is that Liddell’s sprawl is one of the best in the business. Even when Ortiz got him down in their entertaining rematch, he popped right back up onto his feet. Expect to see plenty of that tomorrow night. And when Liddell isn’t sprawling, he’ll be popping Evans in the face numerous times before forcing a referee stoppage towards the end of the second round.
Chuck Liddell wins via (T)KO in the 2nd round
Keefe says: Chuck Liddell def. Rashad Evans via (T)KO in 2nd
Televised Bouts
Rich Franklin v. Matt Hamill
An interesting clash here at 205, mainly because Franklin returns to a division he once left due to being too small and at a disadvantage in terms of strength. At middleweight, you’ll be hard pressed to find someone more physically gifted than Franklin. But at light heavy, and against Hamill, he’ll face a significant size and strength advantage. Which plays right into Hamill’s game. He likes to come forward and maul his opponents, and he’s a highly skilled wrestler with crafty takedowns. Hamill is ever improving, but the one downside is his striking. It’s powerful, but sloppy.
I actually see this playing out much like his fight against a current middleweight fighter who recently left the 205-lb. division in Michael Bisping. This will be a grinding three round fight that sees flashes of brilliance and moments for both fighters. But in the end, I think Franklin’s experience, his polished striking and his savvy ground defense will earn him the checkmark on all three scorecards. Look for Hamill to once again impress, though, and earn himself another big fight down the road. Something tells me he’ll be headlining a UFC Fight Night against Stephan Bonnar once “The American Psycho” recovers from his knee injury. You’ll remember these two were originally scheduled to be the co-main event to Florian and Lauzon back in April.
Rich Franklin wins via unanimous decision
Keefe says: Rich Franklin def. Matt Hamill via decision
Dan Henderson v. Rousimar Palhares
Henderson swears he can beat Anderson Silva if given another crack at him. And you know what? I believe him. But he’s got a serious submission artist staring him in the face on Saturday night. Did you see Palhares’ submission win over Ivan Salaverry at UFC 84? Ridiculous transition into an armbar, and it earned him submission of the night. What’s interesting is that Henderson’s revered wrestling background may get him into trouble here. If this goes to the ground for a long period of time, I have no doubt that Palhares could seize a limb and break it. And three of Henderson’s seven losses have come by submission (one to each Nogueira brother). But I think Henderson keeps this on the feet and slugs away, scores a takedown or two, grounds and pounds briefly and then retreats to his feet. Palhares may put a scare into him at some point, but I think this will be a great step back for “Dangerous.” Or is it “Hollywood”? Whatever.
Dan Henderson wins via (T)KO in the 2nd round
Keefe says: Dan Henderson def. Rousimar Palhares via (T)KO in the 1st
Karo Parisyan v. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
I’m calling it now. This will be the most exciting fight of the night. Parisyan claims to be motivated and says he actually trained for this fight. Can you imagine if there’s any truth to him saying he never really trained for fights up until now? Wow. That could have serious implications moving forward for the Armenian. But Yoshida is on a nine fight win streak, including that amazing submission over “War Machine” at UFC 84 that was just painful to watch. I honestly felt bad for Koppenhaver. Although not as bad as I did for Ed Herman when he got choked out and pounded out by Demian Maia at the same time.
Anyway, Parisyan has never been submitted and has been (T)KO’d only twice in his career. Once in his last fight against Alves – which had a questionable stoppage – and earlier in his career against Sean Sherk. His fight against Diego Sanchez showed how tough and durable his chin is, and I think it will prevail here.
Karo Parisyan wins via unanimous decision
Keefe says: Karo Parisyan def. Yoshiyuki Yoshida via decision
Martin Kampmann v. Nate Marquardt
This card is loaded with toss ups, and here is another one. Kampmann, coming off a knee injury, looked solid in his submission win over Jorge Rivera. It was a good test for his health and an opportunity to knock off ring rust. But now he takes on Marquardt, who is as tough as they come in the UFC’s middleweight division. A pair of point deductions against Thales Leites cost him a win in his last fight, but it’s obvious as to who dominated that fight.
In this one, I think Kampmann’s ability to utilize his kickboxing will be the factor. I think he’ll try and break down Marquardt early with leg kicks and brief combinations on his feet. Eventually Marquardt will go for a takedown, and I think that’s where people underestimate Kampmann’s submission game.
Martin Kampmann wins via submission (rear-naked choke) in the 3rd round
Keefe says: Nate Marquardt def. Martin Kampann via submission in the 1st
Preliminary bouts
Besse: Thiago Tavares wins via submission (triangle choke) in the 3rd round
Keefe: Kurt Pellegrino def. Thiago Tavares via submission in the 2nd
Besse: Tim Boetsch wins via unanimous decision
Keefe: Tim Boetsch def. Mike Patt via (T)KO in the 1st
Besse: Dong Hyun Kim wins via KTFO in the 1st round
Keefe: Dong Hyun Kim def. Matt Brown via (T)KO in the 3rd
Besse: Jason McDonald wins via any submission he pleases in the 1st round
Keefe: Jason McDonald def. Jason Lambert via submission in the 2nd
Besse: Roan Carneiro wins via unanimous decision
Keefe: Ryo Chonan def. Roan Carneiro via decision
Let us know your thoughts on tomorrow’s action. If you like what you see, check out more from The Sports Brief at http://sportsbrief.blogspot.com/
You can e-mail us at sportsbrief@gmail.com
-Bess
At UFC 87, I went 8-2 with my picks while Rich came in at 6-4. With a lot of close, interesting match-ups on tap for UFC 88, however, those early standings could change quickly. I can’t wait to find out…
Main Event
Chuck Liddell v. Rashad Evans
This is a striker v. wrestler matchup, and Liddell has always had tremendous success in fights like these. Evans is a very accomplished wrestler with an undefeated record, and while he showed some good skills in the 3rd round of his fight against Tito Ortiz, it was a 1-point deduction to Ortiz that kept his unblemished record in tact.
Bottom line is that Liddell’s sprawl is one of the best in the business. Even when Ortiz got him down in their entertaining rematch, he popped right back up onto his feet. Expect to see plenty of that tomorrow night. And when Liddell isn’t sprawling, he’ll be popping Evans in the face numerous times before forcing a referee stoppage towards the end of the second round.
Chuck Liddell wins via (T)KO in the 2nd round
Keefe says: Chuck Liddell def. Rashad Evans via (T)KO in 2nd
Televised Bouts
Rich Franklin v. Matt Hamill
An interesting clash here at 205, mainly because Franklin returns to a division he once left due to being too small and at a disadvantage in terms of strength. At middleweight, you’ll be hard pressed to find someone more physically gifted than Franklin. But at light heavy, and against Hamill, he’ll face a significant size and strength advantage. Which plays right into Hamill’s game. He likes to come forward and maul his opponents, and he’s a highly skilled wrestler with crafty takedowns. Hamill is ever improving, but the one downside is his striking. It’s powerful, but sloppy.
I actually see this playing out much like his fight against a current middleweight fighter who recently left the 205-lb. division in Michael Bisping. This will be a grinding three round fight that sees flashes of brilliance and moments for both fighters. But in the end, I think Franklin’s experience, his polished striking and his savvy ground defense will earn him the checkmark on all three scorecards. Look for Hamill to once again impress, though, and earn himself another big fight down the road. Something tells me he’ll be headlining a UFC Fight Night against Stephan Bonnar once “The American Psycho” recovers from his knee injury. You’ll remember these two were originally scheduled to be the co-main event to Florian and Lauzon back in April.
Rich Franklin wins via unanimous decision
Keefe says: Rich Franklin def. Matt Hamill via decision
Dan Henderson v. Rousimar Palhares
Henderson swears he can beat Anderson Silva if given another crack at him. And you know what? I believe him. But he’s got a serious submission artist staring him in the face on Saturday night. Did you see Palhares’ submission win over Ivan Salaverry at UFC 84? Ridiculous transition into an armbar, and it earned him submission of the night. What’s interesting is that Henderson’s revered wrestling background may get him into trouble here. If this goes to the ground for a long period of time, I have no doubt that Palhares could seize a limb and break it. And three of Henderson’s seven losses have come by submission (one to each Nogueira brother). But I think Henderson keeps this on the feet and slugs away, scores a takedown or two, grounds and pounds briefly and then retreats to his feet. Palhares may put a scare into him at some point, but I think this will be a great step back for “Dangerous.” Or is it “Hollywood”? Whatever.
Dan Henderson wins via (T)KO in the 2nd round
Keefe says: Dan Henderson def. Rousimar Palhares via (T)KO in the 1st
Karo Parisyan v. Yoshiyuki Yoshida
I’m calling it now. This will be the most exciting fight of the night. Parisyan claims to be motivated and says he actually trained for this fight. Can you imagine if there’s any truth to him saying he never really trained for fights up until now? Wow. That could have serious implications moving forward for the Armenian. But Yoshida is on a nine fight win streak, including that amazing submission over “War Machine” at UFC 84 that was just painful to watch. I honestly felt bad for Koppenhaver. Although not as bad as I did for Ed Herman when he got choked out and pounded out by Demian Maia at the same time.
Anyway, Parisyan has never been submitted and has been (T)KO’d only twice in his career. Once in his last fight against Alves – which had a questionable stoppage – and earlier in his career against Sean Sherk. His fight against Diego Sanchez showed how tough and durable his chin is, and I think it will prevail here.
Karo Parisyan wins via unanimous decision
Keefe says: Karo Parisyan def. Yoshiyuki Yoshida via decision
Martin Kampmann v. Nate Marquardt
This card is loaded with toss ups, and here is another one. Kampmann, coming off a knee injury, looked solid in his submission win over Jorge Rivera. It was a good test for his health and an opportunity to knock off ring rust. But now he takes on Marquardt, who is as tough as they come in the UFC’s middleweight division. A pair of point deductions against Thales Leites cost him a win in his last fight, but it’s obvious as to who dominated that fight.
In this one, I think Kampmann’s ability to utilize his kickboxing will be the factor. I think he’ll try and break down Marquardt early with leg kicks and brief combinations on his feet. Eventually Marquardt will go for a takedown, and I think that’s where people underestimate Kampmann’s submission game.
Martin Kampmann wins via submission (rear-naked choke) in the 3rd round
Keefe says: Nate Marquardt def. Martin Kampann via submission in the 1st
Preliminary bouts
Besse: Thiago Tavares wins via submission (triangle choke) in the 3rd round
Keefe: Kurt Pellegrino def. Thiago Tavares via submission in the 2nd
Besse: Tim Boetsch wins via unanimous decision
Keefe: Tim Boetsch def. Mike Patt via (T)KO in the 1st
Besse: Dong Hyun Kim wins via KTFO in the 1st round
Keefe: Dong Hyun Kim def. Matt Brown via (T)KO in the 3rd
Besse: Jason McDonald wins via any submission he pleases in the 1st round
Keefe: Jason McDonald def. Jason Lambert via submission in the 2nd
Besse: Roan Carneiro wins via unanimous decision
Keefe: Ryo Chonan def. Roan Carneiro via decision
Let us know your thoughts on tomorrow’s action. If you like what you see, check out more from The Sports Brief at http://sportsbrief.blogspot.com/
You can e-mail us at sportsbrief@gmail.com
-Bess
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Sports Brief's NFL Predictions for 2008
With tonight's Giants-Redskins season opener, the 2008 NFL season is finally upon us. Which can only mean one thing...NFL predictions from The Sports Brief! We've got division winners, our playoff predictions along with individual awards and Week 1 picks with the spreads. So check it out and let us know what you think. We'll be keeping a running tally on the weekly picks, and we've added in a random submission of picks every week to see if our "expertise" holds up against pure luck. That and my picks are the ones I submit to my father's office pool every week. So I'm hoping to bank on these puppies bigtime.
And so, here goes nothing...
Division winners:
AFC East
Besse: Patriots
Keefe: Patriots
AFC North
Besse: Steelers
Keefe: Browns
AFC South
Besse: Jaguars
Keefe: Colts
AFC West
Besse: Chargers
Keefe: Chargers
Wildcard
Besse: Colts; Jets
Keefe: Texans; Jets
Wildcard weekend
Besse: Colts over Chargers; Jets over Steelers
Keefe: Colts over Texans; Jets over Browns
Divisional round
Besse: Patriots over Jets; Jaguars over Colts
Keefe: Pats over Jets; Chargers over Colts
AFC Championship
Besse: Patriots over Jaguars
Keefe: Patriots over Chargers
NFC East
Besse: Cowboys
Keefe: Cowboys
NFC North
Besse: Packers
Keefe: Vikings
NFC South
Besse: Saints
Keefe: Saints
NFC West
Besse: Seahawks
Keefe: Seahawks
Wildcard
Besse: Vikings; Giants
Keefe: Eagles; Packers
Wildcard weekend
Besse: Seahawks over Giants; Vikings over Packers
Keefe: Eagles over Vikings; Seahawks over Packers
Divisional round
Besse: Saints over Seahawks; Cowboys over Vikings
Keefe: Cowboys over Seahawks; Saints over Eagles
NFC Championship
Besse: Cowboys over Saints
Keefe: Cowboys over Saints
Super Bowl
Besse: Patriots over Cowboys
Keefe: Patriots over Cowboys
MVP
Besse: Tom Brady, Patriots (let’s face it, this team sucks without him)
Keefe: Tony Romo, Cowboys
Defensive POY
Besse: Patrick Willis, 49ers
Keefe: Mario Williams, Texans
Coach of the Year
Besse: Sean Payton, Saints
Keefe: Romeo Crennel, Browns
Offensive ROY
Besse: Steve Slaton, Texans
Keefe: Chris Johnson, Titans
Defensive ROY
Besse: Vernon Gholston, Jets
Keefe: Jerod Mayo, Patriots
Sleeper team
Besse: Carolina Panthers…to the Super Bowl if Jake Delhomme stays healthy.
Keefe: Have Browns and Texans in the playoffs, but I think the Raiders will surprise as well, maybe 2nd in the AFC West.
As mentioned earlier, The Sports Brief is proud to announce that we will be submitting out picks every week for every NFL game on the schedule. We will keep a running tally for both Besse and Keefe, as well as include picks for the “test dummy.” The test dummy, whom we will call Random Ron, may vary on a weekly basis, but its picks will be made through various activities such as flipping a coin, throwing darts, etc. This week, the test dummy’s picks were made by the flip of a coin. Heads for the home team and tails for the away team.
Without further ado, the picks for Week 1 are…
Besse:
Redskins (+3.5)
Saints (-3.5)
Jets (-2.5)
Bengals (+1.5)
Falcons (+3.5)
Rams (+7.5)
Seahawks (+0.5)
Jaguars (-2.5)
Patriots (-16.5)
Steelers (-6.5)
Chargers (-9.5)
Cowboys (-5.5)
Cardinals (-2.5)
Colts (-9.5)
Vikings (+2.5)
Raiders (+2.5)
Keefe:
Redskins (+3.5)
Saints (-3.5)
Jets (-2.5)
Bengals (+1.5)
Lions (-3.5)
Eagles (-7.5)
Bills (-0.5)
Jaguars (-2.5)
Patriots (-16.5)
Texans (+6.5)
Chargers (-9.5)
Cowboys (-5.5)
49ers (+2.5)
Colts (-9.5)
Vikings (+2.5)
Raiders (+2.5)
Random Ron:
Giants (-3.5)
Saints (-3.5)
Dolphins (+2.5)
Ravens (-1.5)
Falcons (+3.5)
Rams (+7.5)
Seahawks (+0.5)
Titans (+2.5)
Chiefs (+16.5)
Steelers (-6.5)
Panthers (+9.5)
Cowboys (-5.5)
Cardinals (-2.5)
Bears (+9.5)
Vikings (+2.5)
Raiders (+2.5)
Let us know what you think, and feel free to e-mail us sportsbrief@gmail.com
-Bess
And so, here goes nothing...
Division winners:
AFC East
Besse: Patriots
Keefe: Patriots
AFC North
Besse: Steelers
Keefe: Browns
AFC South
Besse: Jaguars
Keefe: Colts
AFC West
Besse: Chargers
Keefe: Chargers
Wildcard
Besse: Colts; Jets
Keefe: Texans; Jets
Wildcard weekend
Besse: Colts over Chargers; Jets over Steelers
Keefe: Colts over Texans; Jets over Browns
Divisional round
Besse: Patriots over Jets; Jaguars over Colts
Keefe: Pats over Jets; Chargers over Colts
AFC Championship
Besse: Patriots over Jaguars
Keefe: Patriots over Chargers
NFC East
Besse: Cowboys
Keefe: Cowboys
NFC North
Besse: Packers
Keefe: Vikings
NFC South
Besse: Saints
Keefe: Saints
NFC West
Besse: Seahawks
Keefe: Seahawks
Wildcard
Besse: Vikings; Giants
Keefe: Eagles; Packers
Wildcard weekend
Besse: Seahawks over Giants; Vikings over Packers
Keefe: Eagles over Vikings; Seahawks over Packers
Divisional round
Besse: Saints over Seahawks; Cowboys over Vikings
Keefe: Cowboys over Seahawks; Saints over Eagles
NFC Championship
Besse: Cowboys over Saints
Keefe: Cowboys over Saints
Super Bowl
Besse: Patriots over Cowboys
Keefe: Patriots over Cowboys
MVP
Besse: Tom Brady, Patriots (let’s face it, this team sucks without him)
Keefe: Tony Romo, Cowboys
Defensive POY
Besse: Patrick Willis, 49ers
Keefe: Mario Williams, Texans
Coach of the Year
Besse: Sean Payton, Saints
Keefe: Romeo Crennel, Browns
Offensive ROY
Besse: Steve Slaton, Texans
Keefe: Chris Johnson, Titans
Defensive ROY
Besse: Vernon Gholston, Jets
Keefe: Jerod Mayo, Patriots
Sleeper team
Besse: Carolina Panthers…to the Super Bowl if Jake Delhomme stays healthy.
Keefe: Have Browns and Texans in the playoffs, but I think the Raiders will surprise as well, maybe 2nd in the AFC West.
As mentioned earlier, The Sports Brief is proud to announce that we will be submitting out picks every week for every NFL game on the schedule. We will keep a running tally for both Besse and Keefe, as well as include picks for the “test dummy.” The test dummy, whom we will call Random Ron, may vary on a weekly basis, but its picks will be made through various activities such as flipping a coin, throwing darts, etc. This week, the test dummy’s picks were made by the flip of a coin. Heads for the home team and tails for the away team.
Without further ado, the picks for Week 1 are…
Besse:
Redskins (+3.5)
Saints (-3.5)
Jets (-2.5)
Bengals (+1.5)
Falcons (+3.5)
Rams (+7.5)
Seahawks (+0.5)
Jaguars (-2.5)
Patriots (-16.5)
Steelers (-6.5)
Chargers (-9.5)
Cowboys (-5.5)
Cardinals (-2.5)
Colts (-9.5)
Vikings (+2.5)
Raiders (+2.5)
Keefe:
Redskins (+3.5)
Saints (-3.5)
Jets (-2.5)
Bengals (+1.5)
Lions (-3.5)
Eagles (-7.5)
Bills (-0.5)
Jaguars (-2.5)
Patriots (-16.5)
Texans (+6.5)
Chargers (-9.5)
Cowboys (-5.5)
49ers (+2.5)
Colts (-9.5)
Vikings (+2.5)
Raiders (+2.5)
Random Ron:
Giants (-3.5)
Saints (-3.5)
Dolphins (+2.5)
Ravens (-1.5)
Falcons (+3.5)
Rams (+7.5)
Seahawks (+0.5)
Titans (+2.5)
Chiefs (+16.5)
Steelers (-6.5)
Panthers (+9.5)
Cowboys (-5.5)
Cardinals (-2.5)
Bears (+9.5)
Vikings (+2.5)
Raiders (+2.5)
Let us know what you think, and feel free to e-mail us sportsbrief@gmail.com
-Bess
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The Red Sox Starting Nine (Questions) for September
1. How will Josh Beckett return from the DL?
This is clearly the most pressing issue facing Boston right now. Beckett was and still is the ace of the pitching staff, despite the fact that he certainly has not pitched up to his standards in 2008. Perhaps it was all the BBQ and beer he consumed in the offseason, but Beckett hasn’t been right all year. And 11-9 with a 4.35 ERA is awful unless you’re one of the Paul Byrds of the world. But the bottom line is Beckett will be the key to another World Series run. The Sox seem to control their own fate in terms of the Wildcard, and while the AL East crown isn’t out of grasp, the Wildcard isn’t as daunting a task. Expect to see Francona and Co. slowly bring Beckett back, because Boston will be better served pushing him deeper into games and on shorter rest come October. Fully healthy, only one potential playoff team has an ace that can match up with Beckett (John Lackey), and Boston will be in better shape if it sends Dice-K in game 2 and Lester in game 3. And if history tells us anything, Beckett will be asking for the ball in game 4. If he’s healthy enough to.
2. Can the bullpen get it to Papelbon with a lead?
Aside from K-Rod and possibly Joe Nathan and Mariano Rivera, Papelbon is the most dominate closer in the American League if not all of baseball. But what good is a closer if the bullpen can’t hold a lead. The most glaring error in my eyes at the trade deadline was Boston’s reluctance to make a move for relief help. Last year it was Delcarmen (7th) and Okajima (8th), but this year it’s been a revolving door and varied cast of characters. No one seems to want to step up and assume a key role in pressure situations. That being said, this could make things more difficult than expected for Boston to make the postseason. If they do, the starters will be forced to work deeper into games and could result in the Red Sox needing a 4th starter. Not good. Wakefield, Byrd, Bucholz, Colon, et al. simply won’t be acceptable in playoff baseball, and if Justin Masterson is thrust into the role, he may not be able to go further than five innings. That’s four innings out of your bullpen. Gross. Masterson could be the wildcard here, however. Right now he seems like the best option in the 7th inning and could potentially stretch it out to two if needed. But if Okajima can avoid giving up the longball then maybe, just maybe he’ll do, and Papelbon will get some key save opportunities. Either than or the Sox offense of ’03 and ’04 would be welcome.
3. Will Lester hold up?
120, 150, 180. That’s Lester’s total innings at the professional level over the past three season. And a hard fought battle with cancer mixed in there, as well. He hit 97 in the first inning with his fastball, so right now he’s not showing any signs of slowing down. The best thing for Sox will be to secure a playoff spot early and rest their rising star down the stretch so he’s fresh for the playoffs. Looking back on 2007, you can bet that Sabathia (241 IP) and Carmona (215 IP) were worn out in the ALDS and ALCS against New York and Boston. And it showed. Last year Boston had Beckett, Schilling and then Dice-K, and over the course of the regular season, Lester has made Sox fans forget Schilling with ease. But if he and/or Beckett aren’t at full steam down the stretch, Schilling’s grittiness and determination when it mattered will be sorely missed.
4. Can Lowell (oblique) and Drew (back) return to the lineup?
As well as Youkilis, Lowrie and Jeff Bailey have done in Lowell’s absence, the regular third baseman will be welcomed back with open arms. Sean Casey is now on the DL, and “the Mayor” had been a tremendous addition to the clubhouse and lineup on a part-time basis. Can guys like Youk and Pedroia keep up this torrid pace of hitting? Maybe, but even so a veteran presence like Lowell is key in a postseason race. Picture this lineup: Ellsbury, Pedroia, Ortiz, Lowell, Youkilis, Drew (if healthy), Bay, Varitek and Lowrie. That’s pretty ridiculous.
5. Is Lowrie your shortstop for the rest of 2008?
Absolutely. For the rest of 2008, and into 2009 and beyond. Julio Lugo should just mail it in and the Sox should just bite the bullet on this one. Do this city a favor. That was another classic misread by Theo and I say the organization just buy out his contract and send him on his way. Lowrie drove in more runs in the month of August than Lugo did all season. And he has more homeruns…with two. Not only that, but Lowrie has been an on-base machine and can hit almost anywhere in that lineup because of just that. Showing improved defensive skills, he hasn’t been a liability in the field skeptics thought he’d be and has made all the routine plays. Can’t ask for much more out of the young kid.
6. Will Clay Bucholz pitch again at the major league level in 2008?
I hope not. Not to say he’ll be another Bud Smith of sorts, but Bucholz isn’t showing an impressive arsenal of stuff. In fact, my brother’s little league team banged him around the park for six runs over the first two innings in a game that ended in the mercy rule just last week. Not only does his stuff suck, but his attitude and demeanor are brutal too. I think we see more of Michael Bowden down the stretch than we do Bucholz. And I’m not sure we’ll see a whole lot of Bowden either. In fact I think we’ll see more of Keefe and I down the stretch than we do Bucholz. If I have my way, he’ll be starting 2009 in Portland.
7. How many no-name Nancies will we have to watch in September?
It’s already begun in tonight’s game against Baltimore. Jonathan Van Every? David Ross? Craig Smith? It’s nights like these I’m glad I can’t afford tickets to Fenway anymore. Not that the fans even notice as Boston will continue to sell out for the next hundred years. Which leads me to…
8. Should Boston’s attendance record even be compared with Cleveland’s?
Let’s be honest here: the only reason the Red Sox are poised to break this record is because all it takes is a few players’ wives and other family members to show up in order to call it a sell out. It’s the smallest park in baseball and while they continue to announce sell out attendances over 37,000, it’s because they keep jamming more seats in between seats and there are probably a couple thousand idiots dumb enough to stand for nine innings. The whole thing is over played and can’t hold a candle to the Jacobs (now Progressive) Field streak back in the 90’s when Manny was just a 7-hole hitter for that Indians ball club.
9. Pedroia for MVP?
Yea, the same guy people wanted out of the lineup and back in Pawtucket back in April of last year. He should be the front runner right now. Both Josh Hamilton and the Rangers have seen a significant drop off, and no every day players on the Angels or Rays have numbers that jump out at you. Carlos Quentin and Jermaine Dye make solid cases over in Chicago, but they could easily steal votes from each other although Quentin is probably the team MVP.
Look at Pedroia’s numbers: .330/16/75 with a .376 OBP and .872 OPS…for a 2nd baseman! He leads the league in average, hits, runs scored, multi-hit games and is third in doubles. And he’s tossed in 17 steals while playing a phenomenal 2nd base. The injury to Ian Kinsler strengthens his case because it now makes him the league’s most productive 2nd baseman. And he’s done all this with the departure of Manny Ramirez and significant injuries to Mike Lowell, JD Drew and David Ortiz. Even Youkilis has been falling ill as of late and seen limited action. After hitting .260 in the month of May, Pedroia hit .356 in June, .350 in July and then a stout .374 in August to go with his six homers and 20 RBI. Pretty good resume, and as much as I dislike him as a person, I have to admit he’s been the most valuable player to an AL team this season. Barring a strong final month by the likes of Quentin, Dye or dare I say, K-Rod, Pedroia should be the odds on favorite down the stretch.
What are your thoughts on these issues heading into the final month of play? Send us any others I may have overlooked and enjoy the final sprint to October.
-Bess
This is clearly the most pressing issue facing Boston right now. Beckett was and still is the ace of the pitching staff, despite the fact that he certainly has not pitched up to his standards in 2008. Perhaps it was all the BBQ and beer he consumed in the offseason, but Beckett hasn’t been right all year. And 11-9 with a 4.35 ERA is awful unless you’re one of the Paul Byrds of the world. But the bottom line is Beckett will be the key to another World Series run. The Sox seem to control their own fate in terms of the Wildcard, and while the AL East crown isn’t out of grasp, the Wildcard isn’t as daunting a task. Expect to see Francona and Co. slowly bring Beckett back, because Boston will be better served pushing him deeper into games and on shorter rest come October. Fully healthy, only one potential playoff team has an ace that can match up with Beckett (John Lackey), and Boston will be in better shape if it sends Dice-K in game 2 and Lester in game 3. And if history tells us anything, Beckett will be asking for the ball in game 4. If he’s healthy enough to.
2. Can the bullpen get it to Papelbon with a lead?
Aside from K-Rod and possibly Joe Nathan and Mariano Rivera, Papelbon is the most dominate closer in the American League if not all of baseball. But what good is a closer if the bullpen can’t hold a lead. The most glaring error in my eyes at the trade deadline was Boston’s reluctance to make a move for relief help. Last year it was Delcarmen (7th) and Okajima (8th), but this year it’s been a revolving door and varied cast of characters. No one seems to want to step up and assume a key role in pressure situations. That being said, this could make things more difficult than expected for Boston to make the postseason. If they do, the starters will be forced to work deeper into games and could result in the Red Sox needing a 4th starter. Not good. Wakefield, Byrd, Bucholz, Colon, et al. simply won’t be acceptable in playoff baseball, and if Justin Masterson is thrust into the role, he may not be able to go further than five innings. That’s four innings out of your bullpen. Gross. Masterson could be the wildcard here, however. Right now he seems like the best option in the 7th inning and could potentially stretch it out to two if needed. But if Okajima can avoid giving up the longball then maybe, just maybe he’ll do, and Papelbon will get some key save opportunities. Either than or the Sox offense of ’03 and ’04 would be welcome.
3. Will Lester hold up?
120, 150, 180. That’s Lester’s total innings at the professional level over the past three season. And a hard fought battle with cancer mixed in there, as well. He hit 97 in the first inning with his fastball, so right now he’s not showing any signs of slowing down. The best thing for Sox will be to secure a playoff spot early and rest their rising star down the stretch so he’s fresh for the playoffs. Looking back on 2007, you can bet that Sabathia (241 IP) and Carmona (215 IP) were worn out in the ALDS and ALCS against New York and Boston. And it showed. Last year Boston had Beckett, Schilling and then Dice-K, and over the course of the regular season, Lester has made Sox fans forget Schilling with ease. But if he and/or Beckett aren’t at full steam down the stretch, Schilling’s grittiness and determination when it mattered will be sorely missed.
4. Can Lowell (oblique) and Drew (back) return to the lineup?
As well as Youkilis, Lowrie and Jeff Bailey have done in Lowell’s absence, the regular third baseman will be welcomed back with open arms. Sean Casey is now on the DL, and “the Mayor” had been a tremendous addition to the clubhouse and lineup on a part-time basis. Can guys like Youk and Pedroia keep up this torrid pace of hitting? Maybe, but even so a veteran presence like Lowell is key in a postseason race. Picture this lineup: Ellsbury, Pedroia, Ortiz, Lowell, Youkilis, Drew (if healthy), Bay, Varitek and Lowrie. That’s pretty ridiculous.
5. Is Lowrie your shortstop for the rest of 2008?
Absolutely. For the rest of 2008, and into 2009 and beyond. Julio Lugo should just mail it in and the Sox should just bite the bullet on this one. Do this city a favor. That was another classic misread by Theo and I say the organization just buy out his contract and send him on his way. Lowrie drove in more runs in the month of August than Lugo did all season. And he has more homeruns…with two. Not only that, but Lowrie has been an on-base machine and can hit almost anywhere in that lineup because of just that. Showing improved defensive skills, he hasn’t been a liability in the field skeptics thought he’d be and has made all the routine plays. Can’t ask for much more out of the young kid.
6. Will Clay Bucholz pitch again at the major league level in 2008?
I hope not. Not to say he’ll be another Bud Smith of sorts, but Bucholz isn’t showing an impressive arsenal of stuff. In fact, my brother’s little league team banged him around the park for six runs over the first two innings in a game that ended in the mercy rule just last week. Not only does his stuff suck, but his attitude and demeanor are brutal too. I think we see more of Michael Bowden down the stretch than we do Bucholz. And I’m not sure we’ll see a whole lot of Bowden either. In fact I think we’ll see more of Keefe and I down the stretch than we do Bucholz. If I have my way, he’ll be starting 2009 in Portland.
7. How many no-name Nancies will we have to watch in September?
It’s already begun in tonight’s game against Baltimore. Jonathan Van Every? David Ross? Craig Smith? It’s nights like these I’m glad I can’t afford tickets to Fenway anymore. Not that the fans even notice as Boston will continue to sell out for the next hundred years. Which leads me to…
8. Should Boston’s attendance record even be compared with Cleveland’s?
Let’s be honest here: the only reason the Red Sox are poised to break this record is because all it takes is a few players’ wives and other family members to show up in order to call it a sell out. It’s the smallest park in baseball and while they continue to announce sell out attendances over 37,000, it’s because they keep jamming more seats in between seats and there are probably a couple thousand idiots dumb enough to stand for nine innings. The whole thing is over played and can’t hold a candle to the Jacobs (now Progressive) Field streak back in the 90’s when Manny was just a 7-hole hitter for that Indians ball club.
9. Pedroia for MVP?
Yea, the same guy people wanted out of the lineup and back in Pawtucket back in April of last year. He should be the front runner right now. Both Josh Hamilton and the Rangers have seen a significant drop off, and no every day players on the Angels or Rays have numbers that jump out at you. Carlos Quentin and Jermaine Dye make solid cases over in Chicago, but they could easily steal votes from each other although Quentin is probably the team MVP.
Look at Pedroia’s numbers: .330/16/75 with a .376 OBP and .872 OPS…for a 2nd baseman! He leads the league in average, hits, runs scored, multi-hit games and is third in doubles. And he’s tossed in 17 steals while playing a phenomenal 2nd base. The injury to Ian Kinsler strengthens his case because it now makes him the league’s most productive 2nd baseman. And he’s done all this with the departure of Manny Ramirez and significant injuries to Mike Lowell, JD Drew and David Ortiz. Even Youkilis has been falling ill as of late and seen limited action. After hitting .260 in the month of May, Pedroia hit .356 in June, .350 in July and then a stout .374 in August to go with his six homers and 20 RBI. Pretty good resume, and as much as I dislike him as a person, I have to admit he’s been the most valuable player to an AL team this season. Barring a strong final month by the likes of Quentin, Dye or dare I say, K-Rod, Pedroia should be the odds on favorite down the stretch.
What are your thoughts on these issues heading into the final month of play? Send us any others I may have overlooked and enjoy the final sprint to October.
-Bess
Heisman Update (Week 1)
Throughout the college football season I will monitor my “Big 8” Heisman picks with some stats and analysis from each week. Let’s cut the small talk and see how they did. (Note: Maclin and Wells both left their respective games with injury, but should be back.)
Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
13-21, 275 yards, 2 TD in 45-21 Win over Georgia Southern
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
234 total yards, TD, (99 yard KR TD) in 52-42 Win over #20 Illinois
Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State
13 rush, 111 yards, TD in 43-0 Win over Youngstown State
Pat White, QB, West Virginia
25-33, 208 yards, 5 TD, INT, 9 rush, 63 yards in 48-21 Win over Villanova
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georiga
8 rush, 59 yards, 3 TD, 2 receptions, 56 yards in 45-21 Win over Georgia Southern
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
9 receptions, 73 yards, TD in 49-24 Win over Eastern Washington
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
9-14, 137, TD, 9 rush, 37 yards in 56-10 Win over Hawaii
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech
43-58, 536 yards, 2 TD, INT, rush TD in 49-24 Win over Eastern Washington
-Keefe
Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
13-21, 275 yards, 2 TD in 45-21 Win over Georgia Southern
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
234 total yards, TD, (99 yard KR TD) in 52-42 Win over #20 Illinois
Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State
13 rush, 111 yards, TD in 43-0 Win over Youngstown State
Pat White, QB, West Virginia
25-33, 208 yards, 5 TD, INT, 9 rush, 63 yards in 48-21 Win over Villanova
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georiga
8 rush, 59 yards, 3 TD, 2 receptions, 56 yards in 45-21 Win over Georgia Southern
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
9 receptions, 73 yards, TD in 49-24 Win over Eastern Washington
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
9-14, 137, TD, 9 rush, 37 yards in 56-10 Win over Hawaii
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech
43-58, 536 yards, 2 TD, INT, rush TD in 49-24 Win over Eastern Washington
-Keefe
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