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NFL Week 10 Preview

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:04:04 PST

Week 10 will showcase a battle of quarterbacks when Tom Brady and the New England Patriots travel to Indianapolis to take on Peyton Manning and the Colts. Can the Pats end the Colts unbeaten streak? It will definitely be the game of the week. Lot’s of football this week with only two teams with byes, the New York Giants and Houston Texans.

Thursday, November 12 8:20 pm – Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49ers
Line: San Francisco -3 (Total 43)
The Bears (4-4) will face off against the 49ers in the first Thursday night game of the season, and this one is between two teams desperately in need of a win. The loser will most likely be out of a playoff hunt and the winner may keep their postseason hopes alive. San Francisco (3-5) head coach Mike Singletary will look to top his old team with it all on the line. Niners’ QB Alex Smith may have a good outing against a weak Bears’ secondary, but Jay Cutler should out perform with at least a pair of TD tosses. Chicago wins this one on the road.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – Buffalo Bills @ Tennessee Titans
Line: Tennessee -7 (Total 41)
The Titans (2-6) are on a roll and QB Vince Young could go 3-0 after coming into the season in Week 8. The Bills (3-5) will struggle against an effective Tennessee running attack and the Titans should be able to control the game with solid defense. Trent Edwards is slated to return for Buffalo, and that may get the Bills offense going. Buffalo will need Terrell Owens to have a solid performance. Look for Tennessee to win this one at home.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – New Orleans @ St. Louis Rams
Line: New Orleans -14 (Total 50)
The Saints (8-0) should put up a ton of points in this one. Drew Brees and company should have a field day in what is the biggest miss match of the week. The Rams (1-7) will bank on Steven Jackson for any success they may have in this one, as the Saints run defense has slipped of late. Look for the Rams to keep pace in the first half with the Saints blowing it wide open in the second. Saints improve to 9-0 in this one.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Miami Dolphins
Line: Miami -9 (Total 44)
Tampa Bay (1-7) will make the short trip to Miami to do battle with the Dolphins in the Sunshine state this weekend. The Bucs are coming off their first win and might finally be finding some sort of chemistry between Josh Freeman and Antonio Bryant. Miami’s (3-5) wildcat offense has stalled as of late, but still has enough firepower to blast past Tampa bay. Fins win.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings
Line: Minnesota -17 (Total 49)
The Vikings (7-1) should easily win this lopsided match up. Minnesota is coming off a bye week and will be well rested. Brett Favre should be back at 100 percent and Adrian Peterson should have a huge day. The Lions (1-7) will need QB Matthew Safford to cut down on the interceptions and get the little offense that Detroit has back on track. This one sceams blowout, and the Vikes move further out in front of the divison with a win.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm –Jacksonville Jaguars @New York Jets
Line: New York –7 (Total 40)
The Jaguars (4-4) need a win if they want to stay in the playoff picture but the Jets (4-4) are in their way, and also looking to keep their postseaon deams alive. Rookie QB Mark Sanchez has fallen into a slump and will try to regain his ealry season form. For the most part this one will be won on the ground. The Jets will be without Krius Jenkins and the defense will have to stop Jacksonville’s Maurice Jones-Drew. The Jaqs have been playing pretty well as of late and I look for them to snatch this one away from the Jets on the road.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh -7 (Total 42)
The Benglas (6-2) will be looking ahead and a win would clearly put them atop the AFC North. RB Cedric Benson continues to power out the Bengals’ running game and will give the Steelers defense fits. Pittsburgh (6-2) faltered to start the season but have bounced back to championship form. This will be a hard fought contest with Pittsburgh getting a vital divisional win at home.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – Denver Broncos @ Washington Redskins
Line: Denver -4 ½ (Total 36)
The Redskins (2-6) will look for just their third win this season when they host the Broncos this week. Denver (6-2) quarterback Kyle Orton will return to the place of his first ever NFL start, looking to wreak havoc on Wahington’s poor secondary . Denver will need to clamp down on RB Clinton Portis. The Broncos win this one in the Nations Capital.

Sunday, November 15 1:00 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers
Line: Atlanta -2 (Total 44)
The Panthers (3-5) have played better since they decided to ditch their hopless passing game and opt for the running attack. The have also been comitting less turnovers. They gave the Saints a run, but it wasn’t quite enough. The Falcons (5-3) are uitilizing Michael Turner more often, taking some of the pressure off QB Matt Ryan. This could be a low-scoring game, but the Falcons will earn a hard fought victory on the road.

Sunday, November 15 4:05 pm – Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders
Line: Oakland –2 (Total 36)
These two AFC rivals have a lot of history once upon a time. Now both clubs are stuggling to post just four wins on the season. The Raiders (2-6) shoud be able to work the ground attack and that alone could elevate them to a win at home. The Chiefs(1-7) will hang with Oakland, but a late drive will notch the Raiders a narrow vicotry.

Sunday, November 15 4:15 pm – Dallas Cowboys @ Green Bay Packers
Line: Dallas –2 (Total 47)
The Cowboys (6-2) have suddenly found themselves atop the NFC East, as Green Bay struggles to stay in the playoff chase. The Packers’ (4-4) DeMarcus Ware is back to last year’s form but Aaron Rodgers is suffering from the beating he has been taking due to Green Bay’s inability to stop the pass rush. Dallas’ Tony Romo will need to have a solid effort as well as TE Jason Witten. Keeping the passes short will be key as Green Bay’s secondary could pose a serious threat to the Dallas air assualt. Look for the Cowboys to keep rolling along with a win on the road.

Sunday, November 15 4:15 pm – Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals
Line: Arizona -9 (Total 47)
The Cardinls (5-3) have been on fire as of late and are playing to last year’s form. The Cards need this division win to if they’re going to repeat as NFC West champs. WR Anquan Boldin is expected to return for Sunday’s game. The Seahawks (2-5) will not make this easy and and force Arizona to find their runing game. Kurt Warner will make a few more plays in the fourth leading his Cardinals to a narrow victory.

Sunday, November 15 4:15 pm – Philadelphia Eagles @ San Diego Chargers
Line: San Diego –3 (Total 47)
The Eagles (5-3) came one win away from being all alone atop the NFC East, while San Diego (5-3) pulled off a late win to keep them in the thick of a playoff race. RB Brian Westbrook’s status will be key for the Eagles. The Chargers’ defense has stepped up with Shawne Merriman getting back to form. The Chargers will manage to contain the Eagles running game. QB Phillip Rivers will get a big second half leading the Chargers to a win at home.

Sunday, November 15 8:20 pm – New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts
Line: Indianapolis -3 (Total 50)
This will be an epic showdown as as the Patriots (6-2) roll into Indy as possibly the only team that can snap the Colts (8-0) unbeaten streak. These are two of the hottest teams in the NFL and have little love for one another. The Colts are on the verge of catching New England’s record for consecutive regular-season wins and the Pats will not want to be part of it. This will be the game of the week. A win for the Patriots could make the statement that they rule the AFC once more, but first they have to get by the Colts. This one is to close to call.

Monday, November 16 8:30 pm – Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns
Line: Baltimore -11 (Total 40)
Baltimore (4-4) is running out of time and has found themsleves in a must-win situation should they want a trip to the postseason. The Ravens can’t afford to lose another divisional match up, especially to the Browns (1-7). Cleveland is still burned from the Ravens leaving for Baltimore, and the chance to undermine their playoff hopes should have the Dog Pound motivated. The Ravens defense will have a big day as they hand the Browns another loss at home.

NFL Week 9 Preview

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 09:08:47 PST

Week 9 is always an exciting week as teams gear up for the second half of the season and the fight for the playoffs become even more intense. My choice for game of the week is the Dallas Cowboys at the Philadlphi Eagles. These two exciting teams should put on a great show in Philly. Teams with byes are the Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, St Louis Rams, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Jets.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Baltimore Ravens @ Cincinnati Bengals
Line: Baltimore -3 (Total 43)
The Benglas (5-2) must win games against credible teams in the last half of the season. It will be the second time these two teams face each other, the first in Week 5 that saw Cincinnati put together a last second drive beating the Ravens 21-17. Baltimore (4-3) will want to put more pressure on Carson Palmer in this game. Cedric Benson rushed for over 100 yards against Baltimore in the first meeting, and he should be fresh off a bye week. The Bengals can jump ahead in the standings with a win. Look for Cincy to win this one at home.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts
Line: Indianapolis -9 (Total 48)
This is the week the Texans (5-3) show if they are for real. They came close to beating the Colts last season, but can they hand the Colts (7-0) their first loss of the season? Both teams are playing better defensively, but the air attack from Peyton Manning and Matt Schaub will pose threats for both teams’ secondaries. Whoever can establish a decent rushing attack my take this one. If Indianapolis wins this one, they will have pretty much solidified their AFC South title. Look for the Colts to take this one at home with as bit more offensive juice.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Green Bay @ Tampa Bay
Line: Green Bay –10 (Total 43 ½)
Tampa Bay (0-7) is the last remainng team in 2009 without a win. Can they go 0-16? The Packers (4-3) area coming off a loss to the Vikings, and will look forward to bettter weather conditions in Florida. Can Green Bay rebound and string together a few wins to get them ahead of the Bears for second in the division? The Busccaneers are coming off a bye and will need to shut down Aaron Rodgers if they are to have any chance. Green Bay’s pass protection issues have been questionable. Look for Green Bay to snatch one on the road.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Arizona Cardinal @ Chicago Bears
Line: Chicago-3 (Total 45)
The Bears (4-3) return home for a much needed two-game home stand, beginning with the NFC champion Arizona Cardinals (4-3). Can Jay Cutler settle into a groove before the season is over? Neither team has been capable of performing with any great regularity on offense or defense. Arizona’s Kurt Warner threw five-interceptions last week against the Panthers. The Redbirds receiving corp is not running on all cylinders and has some key injuries. If either team can establish the runing game, it may be enough for the win. The Bears take this one at home.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Miami Dolphins @ New England Patriots
Line: New England –10 ½ (Total 47)
Past match ups of these two AFC East rivals have proven to be exciting games. Even though their record doesn’t show it, the Dolphins (3-4) have played fairly well and are coming off a big win against the Jets. A win could put Miami into a playoff race behind the Patriots (5-2) in the coming weeks. The Fins will use the wildcat to get at the Pats early. QB Chad Henne hasn’t quite been the answer for the Fins injured starter, Chad Pennigton. Miami may have already sewn up first place if they had him. New England is coming off a bye and shoud be well rested. New England grabs this one in Foxboro.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Kansas City Chiefs @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Line: Jacksonville –6 ½ (Total 42)
The Chiefs (1-6) and the Jaguars (3-4) combined for just seven wins in 2008. So far they have four. Both teams have talent but no real leader in the team. It is a must-win game for Jacksonvile if they want to remain on the periphery of a playoff run. The Chiefs only hope is to overtake the Raiders, keeping them out of he cellar in the AFC West. Jackonsville improves to .500 on the year.

Sunday, November 8 1:00 pm – Washington Redskins @ Atlanta Falcons
Line: Atlanta -10 (Total 42)
The Redskins (2-5) are running out of potential teams they might be able to beat heading into the second half of the season. Their schedule is a tough one, with a combined team total of 42-22. The Falcons (4-3) have gotten three of their four wins at home, and is coming off a 35-27 loss to an undefeated New Orleans Saints. They will look to capitalize on the many mistakes Washington’s offense is prone to. Atlanta could incerease their playoff hopes with a win. Look for Matt Ryan to bounce back leading the Falcons to a win.

Sunday, November 8 4:05 pm – Carolina Panthers @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans 13 ½ (Total 52)
This is a blowout. Last year’s NFC South champion Panthers (3-4) are just plain horrible, but somehow mustered a win last week agains against the Arizona Cardinals.The Saints (7-0) on the other hand, are one of two unbeaten teams left in Week 9. They are stacked and playing possessed. The Panthers have given the Saints headaches in the past, but not this year. New Orleans has stacked themselves with talent over the last three years and may have finally found the road to the Superbowl. Saints light up the board and improve to 8-0.

Sunday, November 8 4:05 pm – Detroit Lions @ Seattle Seahawks
Line: Seattle -10 (Total 43)
The Seahawks (2-5) struggled early on with injuries and have now lost five of their past six games, including all three contests on the road by an average of 17 points a game. The Lions (1-6), lost 17-10 to a pitiful St. Louis team in their last outing, and short of anything else have at least accomplished a single win in 2009, their first since 2007. Look for Seattle to win this one at home in a sleeper.

Sunday, November 8 4:15 pm – Tennessee Titans @ San Francisco 49ers
Line: San Francisco -4 (Total 41)
Tennesse fans were sparred any more horror when QB Vince Young took the field last Sunday and led the Titans (1-6) to their first win of the 2009 season. The Titans are another tean that is not as bad as their record looks, and the change at quarterback could just be what the doctor ordered. San Francisco (3-4) also made a change at quarterback to Alex Smith. After going 3-1 to start the season, the 49ers have lost three straight. The game should give us a superb match up of two of the leagues best backs, Fank Gore and Chris Johnson. This will be smash mouth football with the team with best ground attack coming away with the win. Niners win this one at home.

Sunday, November 8 4:15 pm – San Diego Chargers @ New York Giants
Line: New York –4 (Total 47 ½)
After jumping out to a 5-0 start, the Giants (5-3) have lost three straight. The defense has collapsed. Their secondary is pathetic,and the pass rush, well is not a rush at all. You also have to wonder if Eli’s foot is bothering him. The Chargers’ ( 4-3) are coming off their 13th straight win over the Raiders last Sunday and the defense, which had struggled early on, got a boost when it made a fourth-quarter stand against Oakland. This will be a tight one with the Giants eeking out a win.

Sunday, November 8 8:20 pm – Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles
Line: Philadelphia -3 (Total 48)
Historically the Cowboys do well in Sunday night match ups. These teams split wins in 2008 with the home team wining each contest. The Cowboys (5-2) haven’t played a divisional team since losing at home to the Giants in Week 2. The Eagles (5-2) share first place in the division with the Cowboys. Dallas’ secondary may be queastionable against the Eagles’ DeSean Jackson. So look for the Eagles to launch an early air assault. Philadelphia will also hope for the return of RB Brian Westbrook. The Cowbioys will need to generate an effective pass rush if they are to notch a win on the road. Look for the home advantage trend to continue as the Eagles win this one and take over sole possesion of first place in the NFC East.

Monday, November 9 8:30 pm – Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos
Line: Pittsburgh -3 (Total 39)
Tne Broncos (6-1) will appear in their second Monday night football game of 2009. The Steelers (5-2) are coming off a bye after a 27-17 win over the Vikings in Week 7, while Denver tries to rebound from its first loss of the season against the Ravens. The Broncos’ defense was man-handled by Baltimore and the Steelers will do the same. Broncos QB Kyle Orton has only lost twice at home in his career. Troy Polamalu should return to the Steelers line-up this week. Look for the Steelers to prove that they are worthy of the Super bowl title they received last season by handing the Broncos their second straight loss of the season.

World Series Game 6 Preview

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:39:12 PST

The Yankees are still chasing that elusive 27th championship, and will look to catch it tonight by beating Philadelphia in Game 6 of the 2009 World Series at Yankee Stadium.

After New York took a commanding 3-1 series lead in the best-of-seven series, the Phillies put together a winning combination of solid pitching and offense to win Game 5, 8-6 and force the series to return to New York.

The Phillies are trying to become the first team to rally from a 3-1 World Series deficit since the 1985 Kansas City Royals. To do that, Philadelphia might need slugger Ryan Howard to break out of his slump. Howard is batting .158 (3 for 19) with 12 strikeouts. Second baseman Chase Utley, however, is doing more than his share. His five home runs, including two in Game 6, matched the mark set by Yankees Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson in 1977.

The Yanks will be looking to christen their new ballpark with a World Series crown in its first season. They’ve got two chances to do it. A Game 7 would be Thursday night in New York, if necessary.

Pedro Martinez, 38, will get the start for Philly, facing off against Yankees’ 37-year old lefty Andy Pettitte. Martinez and Pettitte have faced each other six times on the mound and both are 3-3, but have never met in a playoff game. Not to mention one this huge.

Pettitte is 3-0 with a 3.24 ERA in four starts this postseason, including a Game 3 win at Philadelphia. Martinez pitched well in a Game 2 loss at Yankee Stadium, and is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in as many starts.

The odds makers have the Yankees at –1-½ favorites in Game 6 with a game total of 9 ½.

Look for the Phillies to get ahead early and hold off New York forcing a decisive Game 7.

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New York evens the series and heads to Philly for Game 3

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:26:22 PDT

The 2009 World Series is underway and so far my predictions are coming to fruition as the teams are knotted up with one game apiece heading into Game 3 at Philadelphia on Saturday night.

The Phiilies thumped New York 6-1 in Game 1 behind a superb performance from left- handed AL Cy Young Award winner, Cliff Lee who pitched a complete game surrendering just one earned run on six hits while striking out 10 of the 32 Bronx batters he faced. Lee out dueled ALCS MVP C.C. Sabathia who toed the rubber seven innings for the Yanks, giving up just four hits and two runs, both coming by way of Phillies second baseman Chase Utley in the third and sixth innings.

Game 2 pitted they Yankees’ A.J. Burnett against Phillies veteran RHP Pedro Martinez. The 38-year old Martinez allowed three runs and six hits in six-plus innings, striking out eight in a 3-1 loss on Thursday night. The right-hander Burnett tossed first-pitch strikes to his first 11 batters, notching his first win in four postseason starts. Burnett struck out nine and walked only two in seven innings. He retired his final eight batters and handed the lead to closer Mariano Rivera for a six-out save.

After powering through the first two rounds of the playoffs, hitting a combined .438 with five homers and 12 RBIs. A-Rod has gone 0 for 8 with six strikeouts. The Phillies $15 million dollar first baseman Ryan Howard is 2 for 9 with a pair of doubles and one RBI. Neither player has been a factor in either of the first two games.

The Series moves to Philadelphia for Game 3 on Saturday night, with New York’s Andy Pettitte set to face Cole Hamels in a match up of lefty’s. Pettitte is 2-2 in seven career starts with a 3.67 ERA against the Phillies, and is 8-4 on the road in 2009. He posted a win in his last appearance on Oct. 25 against the Angels. Hamels last appearance ended in a 10-4 win over the Dodgers on Oct. 21. He is 0-1 in two starts against the Yankees lifetime, with a 2.77 ERA, and is 7-5 in 2009 at Citizens Bank Park.

The odds makers have the Yankees at –1-½ favorites in Game 3 with a game total of 9.

Philadelphia is trying to become the first NL team to repeat as World Series champion since Cincinnati’s “Big Red Machine” in 1975-76. Can the Phillies return home taking two out of three to lead the series 3-2 sending it back to the Bronx? Will New York’s huge payroll buy them their first World Series title in nine years? My bet is on the Phillies in a decisive Game 7.

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English Premiere Soccer Week 11 Preview

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:24:03 PDT

As we head into Week 11 of Premier League play, there are some exciting match ups as the top four teams jockey for position atop the leader board. Can Chelsea hang on to the lead they took last weekend or will Manchester United regain the top spot? Here I take a look at this weeks match ups giving you insight on making your EPL soccer wager a winner.

Chelsea remains atop the Premier League table, two points ahead of Manchester United and will play against Bolton for the second time this week in what could prove to be an interesting match. Chelsea defeated the Wanderers on Wednesday 4-nil in a Carling Cup fixture. Bolton is coming off a thrilling victory over Everton 3-2 in their last outing, but will have their hands full against the Blues, which have scored nine goals and conceded none in their last two league matches. Although Bolton's home form recently has been good, it's hard to see a victory over Chelsea, even with home field advantage.

Manchester United will play host to Blackburn and will be looking to get back atop the leader board after losing 2-nil at Liverpool in their last match. Blackburn is currently in 16th place and was thumped 5-nil by Chelsea in their last game, and now must travel to Old Trafford for this week’s game. Man U will try to make quick work of Blackburn, scoring early and should win this game easily.

Two North London rivals will face off when fourth place Tottenham travels to Emirates Stadium where they will play third place Arsenal. The Hot Spurs dropped points in their last match losing 1-nil to Stoke, while Arsenal played to a 2-2 draw with West Ham. Tottenham will want to continue their recent run of good form and show that they are capable of competing with the top teams in the Premier League by taking over sole possession of third place from the Gunners. Arsenal will want to maintain third place in the league and try to close in on Chelsea and Man U. Arsenal wins this one behind home advantage.

With last week’s 2-nil win over Manchester United, Liverpool moved up to fifth in the league and will be hoping to leap frog over the two teams ahead of them with a win at Fulham on Saturday. Fulham played well in their last match against Manchester City, playing to a 2-2 draw. The Reds will be playing with confidence after their win against United and will have Fernando Torres back on the pitch for this week’s contest. Liverpool gets the win.

Birmingham City will host Manchester City on Sunday. Birmingham has won only two of its last six with a win over 8th place Sunderland last week. Man City has been inconsistent this season and despite a hefty payroll has been winless in their last three matches. City blew a two goal lead in their last match, allowing Fulham to even the score in the second half to come way with just a single point. Look for this game to be tight and end in a draw.

Seventh place Aston Villa travels to Goodison Park to play 14th place Everton in a Wednesday evening match, on Nov. 4th. Everton has been plagued by injuries, and are without 11 of their starting players. They dropped their last two games, one of these being a 5-0 defeat at the hands of Benfica. Aston Villa is playing good football coming into the match, but it may not be enough to beat Everton even with the amount of players that are out. I think this one will be a draw.

The Portsmouth Blues are currently at the very bottom of the league table and will host 10th place Wigan Athletic this weekend. The Blues are desperate for a win having only won once in their last six. Wigan is coming off a solid win at Burnely and I do not see Portsmouth wining the battle on the pitch. The best Portsmouth could hope for is a draw, but Wigan will edge them out for the win.

The Black Cats of Sunderland will square off with second from the bottom West Ham at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland on Oct. 31. Sunderland is 3-1-2 in their last six and is coming into the match one point behind 7th place Aston Villa. West Ham has struggled this season, although they had a good draw against Arsenal in their last game. Sunderland will take the three points at home.

Stoke City will host the Wolverhampton Wolves on Saturday at Britannia Stadium. The Potters are currently tied with Sunderland in the standings with 10 points, and beat a tough Hot Spurs squad in their last match. The Wolves are winless in their last four and sit three spots above the bottom of the table. Look for the Potters to get all three points against the Wolves in this one.

The Burnley Clarets are back in the Premiere league after 33 years and will take on Hull Tigers this weekend. Burnley were disappointing in their home game last weekend, going down 3-1 to Wigan, but are currently sitting in the middle of the pack in 11th. The Tigers are 1-1-4 in their last six matches and are coming off a draw at home against Portsmouth in Week 10. Burnley takes three the points in this one.

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NFL Week 8 Preview

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:46:06 PDT

We are halfway through the 2009 season and Week 8 hosts three of the best NFC match ups all year. The Philadelphia Eagles play host to rival New York Giants, the Arizona Cardinals get a home game against the Carolina Panthers and, the New Orleans Saints will square off against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night. Big news from last year WEEK 8 was the Titans beating the Indianapolis Colts, going on to post a 13-3 record and winning the AFC South. Oh, what a difference a year makes as the Titans are still searching for their first win in 2009. All three of the remaining unbeaten teams – Indianapolis (6-0), New Orleans (6-0), and Denver (6-0) – will be in action this week. Teams with byes are the Bengals, Chiefs, Patriots, Steelers, Buccaneers and Redskins.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys
Line: Dallas -9 ½ (Total 45)
The Seahawks (2-4) are coming off a bye week, losing their last outing 27-3 to the Arizona Cardinals. Seattle ranks 18th overall in passing offense, and has allowed 15 sacks this season. Defensively they are faring no better. The Cowboys’ (4-2) defense was finally able to get to the oppositions quarterback and that resulted in a win against the Falcons on Sunday. They sacked Matt Ryan four times and forced two interceptions. An NFC East division title is suddenly a reality again for the Cowboys as the Giants surrendered their second straight loss in Week 7. The Cowboys D shuts down Seattle while Romo and Barber have solid performances to win this one at home.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Houston Texans @ Buffalo Bills
Line: Houston –3 ½ (Total 40 1/2)
Houston (4-3) is coming off back-to-back wins, and is really starting to look like a team that could have a winning record by season end. QB Matt Schaub continues to play well and leads the league in passing yards and touchdown passes. The defense is still a bit shaky. The Bills (3-4) were able to pick up their third win of the season against a struggling Carolina Panthers, but still hopeless offensively. Buffalo QB Trent Edwards will make a late turnover costing the Bills a loss in this one.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Saint Louis Rams @ Detroit Lions
Line: ** (Total **)
The Rams (0-7) have lost 17 consecutive games, and have had four games where they have scored fewer than 10 points this season, being outscored 211-60 overall, including 117-23 after halftime. Enough said. The Lions (1-5) were shut out by the Packers 26-0, in their last outing on Oct. 18. The Lions' mile long injury list looks a little better after their bye week. QB Matthew Stafford has missed two games and is still listed as questionable. The Lions’ pass rush has been a problem and is allowing opponents to complete 74 percent of their passes--worst in the NFL. They have also allowed eight runs of 20 yards or more, tied for second-worst in the NFL. Two of the leagues ugliest teams go head-to-head. The difference will be at quarterback with the Rams Marc Bulger having a little better outing to notch the Rams first win of the season.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Denver Broncos @ Baltimore Ravens
Line: Baltimore -3 ½ (Total 41)
Denver (6-0) has won six straight games with their latest coming against the San Diego Chargers on the road, Oct 19. QB Kyle Orton has played well giving up just a single interception thus far in the season, but Orton and the Broncos will have a tough time trying to solve the Ravens defense. The Ravens (3-3) is well rested and should be prepared for their date with the Broncos. If Baltimore can mitigate stupid penalties and play smart football they may be able to hand Denver their first loss of the year. They will need to contain Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal, while providing enough protection for Flacco to get things done. Baltimore will force key turnovers and will put up solid rushing yards to win this one at home.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles
Line: Philadelphia –3 (Total 45)
The Eagles (4-2) beat the Redskins in their last outing, but that isn’t saying much against a team that pretty much beat themselves. Philadelphia was far from dominating. Scoring 27 points off of turnovers. The Giants (5-2) beat themselves on Sunday, turning the ball over four times. QB Eli Manning's per pass completion average was only 9.5 yards, his lowest in a single game this season. New York is still one of the best teams in the NFC and should bounce back. This will be a test for both teams and could prove to be one of the week’s best games. New York will make big plays late and win this one on the road in a classic NFC rivalry game.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets
Line: New York –4 (Total 40)
Miami (2-4) has a 2-0 record in the AFC East division with the hardest part of their schedule behind them. However, Chad Henne is no Pennington and showed his lack of experience with a second half meltdown against the Saints on Sunday. But don’t just blame Henne, the offensive line provided no time for him to throw. RB Ricky Williams ran for three touchdowns in the 46-34 loss. The Jets (4-3) were able to bounce back with a win against the Raiders one week after QB Mark Sanchez's six-pick implosion. Despite the loss of Leon Washington, the Jets run game stepped up and rushed the ball for over 300 yards. The Jets will need to rely on their run game and just let Sanchez manage the game. This will be a good AFC East divisional contest. The Fins fall behind early and never recover as the Jets work the ground attack and get it done at home.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears
Line: Chicago –13 ½ (Total 40)
Browns (1-6) QB Derek Anderson has the worst quarterback rating in the league (40.6), and has gone 23-for-70, with one touchdown and three interceptions in three games. So just how bad is Cleveland? They are giving up 414.9 yards per game--170.6 yards rushing and 244.3 passing. The Bears (3-3) Jay Cutler threw three interceptions on Sunday in a 45-10 loss at Cincinnati, and now has 10 interceptions on the year. Cleveland will struggle on both sides of the ball as Chicago’s D “bears” down. Cutler tosses a couple of TDs, and that should be enough to win.

Sunday, November 1 1:00 pm – San Francisco 49ers @ Indianapolis Colts
Line: Indianapolis -11 (Total 45)
San Francisco (3-3) lost a close game to the Houston Texans 24-21 last Sunday, despite a decent outing from 49ers’ back up QB Alex Smith, who came into the game in the second half. Will Smith start against the Colts on Sunday? San Francisco’s running game has struggled this season. RB Frank Gore returned to the lineup after missing a majority of the past four games with an ankle sprain and has had little success, gaining just 32 yards on 13 rushing attempts. The Colts’ (6-0) Peyton Manning is playing better than he ever has in his entire career. But let’s don’t leave out that Indy’s D is giving up just 12.8 points a game. That's the second best in the league. The 49ers’ defense will have a long day trying to control the Colts passing attack as well as establishing their running game. Peyton Manning and Reggie Wayne will combine for multiple TDs, as the Colts continue their unbeaten streak.

Sunday, November 1 4:05 pm – Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans
Line: Tennessee -3 (Total 45)
The Titans (0-6) are coming off a much needed bye week after losing six consecutive games including getting clobbered 59-0 by the Patriots in their last outing. One question regarding the Titans is whether the team will make the switch from Kerry Collins to Vince Young at quarterback. Collins has completed 108 of 197 passes with five touchdowns and eight interceptions. Tennessee’s is ranked 31st in the league overall and is dead last against the pass, having given up at least 300 yards passing in all but one game this season. The Titans have given up 19 touchdown passes and has surrendered 198 points in six games. Jacksonville (3-3) is coming off a bye week, barely edging out a winless St. Louis Rams team 23-20 in overtime on Oct. 18. The Jaguars beat the Titans, 37-17 earlier this season but the Titans have long been a team that has given them fits. Tennessee holds a 16-12 series edge and also won the only playoff game between the two clubs in 1999. This will be a hard-hitting physical battle. The Titans get a big day from RB Chris Johnson and get their first win.

Sunday, November 1 4:05 pm – Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers
Line: San Diego –16 ½ (Total 41)
Oakland (2-5) fell in the hole early in their last contest against the Jets and eventually came out on the losing end, as they were blanked 38-0. The Jets racked up 316 yards on the ground and 143 yards in the air. Set aside Shane Lechler and Sebastian Janakowski and the Raider are an unsightly lot. San Diego (3-3) dismantled the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium last weekend 37-7, but still hasn’t demonstrated that they can make plays on the defensive side of the ball, as Kansas City rushed for more than 100 yards. The two teams meet in Week 1 on MNF with San Diego coming away with a hard-fought victory. The Raiders will struggle on both sides of the ball as the Chargers dominate them with a balanced offensive attack.

Sunday, November 1 4:15 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers
Line: Green Bay -3 (Total 47)
The Vikings (6-1) winning steak came to an end in Week 7 when they ran into a very tough Steelers team at Heinz Field. Minnesota turned the ball over several times and committed a season-high 11 penalties. QB Brett Favre completed 34 of 51 passes for 334 yards, but did not have a touchdown and was part of two key turnovers in the fourth quarter. The Vikes D played well, holding the NFL's second-ranked passing offense to just 175 yards. Green Bay’s (4-2) Aaron Rodgers led the Packers to a 31-3 road victory in their last outing against the Cleveland Browns. Rodgers was 15-of-20 for 246 yards and three touchdowns. The last time these two teams played, Rodgers was sacked eight times. This is probably one of the most anticipated games of the season as Brett Favre returns to Lambeau Field to take on his former team. Minnesota’s Adrian Peterson will have a 100-yard rushing day, as the Vikes tenacious D shuts down the Packers, coming away with the win.

Sunday, November 1 4:15 pm – Carolina Panthers @ Arizona Cardinals
Line: Arizona -9 (Total 42)
Arizona (4-2) got a huge win against New York on Sunday night- their first victory at the Meadowlands since 1999. Running back Beanie Wells had the best game of his career, gaining 67 yards on 14 carries, including a 13-yard touchdown run. It was the first touchdown of his NFL career. Carolina (2-4) was only able to put up 9 points in a loss to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Panthers QB Jake Delhomme is in the midst of his worst season as a pro with a league-high 13 interceptions, including three to Buffalo in his last appearance. He ranks 32nd in the league in passer rating with a mark of 56.5. He has only four touchdown passes on the season. Carolina ranks second in the league in pass defense and the rushing defense is solid. The Cardinals defense is coming off its best consecutive performances in years, and should have no problem shutting down the Panthers weak offense for the win.

Monday, November 2 8:30 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans –8 ½ (Total 54)
The Saints (6-0) fell behind, 7-0 in the first quarter to the Miami Dolphins, and eventually dug themselves into a 24-3 hole before rallying for 36 points in one half to come away with 46-34 victory, keeping their unbeaten streak alive. Great teams in the NFL are never out of games and the Saints proved they can come back from any deficit. New Orleans is scoring 39.7 points per game and have scored 238 points so far this season; that is the second most in NFL history through six games. Atlanta (4-2) is allowing over 350 yards per game on defense. One of the main reasons is because of the defensive line's inability to put pressure on the quarterback. The Falcons need to improve in that area before they take on Drew Brees and the Saints on Monday night or else they are in for a long evening. This will be the game of the week. Big scoring. Back-and-forth shootout. New Orleans gets the win.

2009 World Series Preview

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:38:03 PDT

The Phillies and the Yankees have met once before in the 1950 World Series. Smokin’ Joe DiMaggio, Whitey Ford and the Yankees swept Robin Roberts, Ritchie Ashburn and the Phillies, in a tight series. Now the defending World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies will square off against the New York Yankees in this years’ Fall Classic, starting on Wednesday in the Bronx.

The Phillies are back in the World Series for the second consecutive year after claiming their third consecutive NL East title with a regular season record of 93-69. They eliminated the wild card Colorado Rockies in four games of the NLDS, and then took out the Los Angeles Dodgers, for the second straight year, 4-1 in a best-of-seven series to be crowned 2009 National League Champions.

The Yankees (103-59) finished the regular season with the best record in Major League Baseball and made quick work of the Minnesota Twins sweeping the ALDS in three games, then powering their way past a very good Anaheim Angles ball club, eliminating them in six games in the ALCS.

This years odds currently have the Phillies at +500 and the Yankees at –120 to win this year’s Fall Classic.

Let’s take a peek at some of the strengths, and weaknesses for each team heading into this year’s World Series, and shed some insight to assist you in making sure your bet is a winner.

Offensively there is no argument that the Phillies have a strong lineup and finished the regular season leading the NL in runs (820), doubles (312), home runs (224), total bases (2,493), RBIs (788) and slugging percentage (.447). Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard has had another incredible year, finishing the regular season with 45 home runs. Howard has been lighting up opposing pitchers in the postseason with a .355 batting average and 14 RBIs.

The Yankees led the majors during the regular season with 915 runs, 244 of which were home runs. First baseman Mark Teixeira led the team with 39 long balls but is batting just .205 with five RBIs thus far in the playoffs. Then there is A-Rod who is dominating baseball right now. He is batting an astonishing .438 with 12 RBIs and five home runs so far this postseason. The 34-year old Yankees third baseman has reached the World Series for the first time in his 16-year and now wants the one thing that Philadelphia’s Ryan Howard has -- a World Series ring.

Next we look at pitching.

One thing for certain is the disaster that was the Phillies bullpen during the regular season, ranked 13th overall, but has come through in the postseason when it mattered most. Now they will be facing the most powerful line up in baseball and will need consistency from their 7th ranked starting rotation that has found its center with left- handed AL Cy Young Award winner, Cliff Lee, who has been magnificent in this years postseason run.

ALCS MVP C.C. Sabathia led the Yankees in wins and was tied for most in the league with 19. He is 3-0 with a 1.19 ERA in the playoffs, and has struck out 20 in 22 postseason innings, while holding opponents hitting to just .205.

Sabathia and Lee, two former Cleveland Indian teammates, will face each other in Game 1 in what should be the biggest pitching duel of the 2009 postseason. Lee is dominating going 2-0 with an 0.74 ERA in three postseason starts, while Sabathia is 1-2 with a 5.55 ERA in four career starts against the Phillies, including a loss with Milwaukee in Game 2 of last year’s NL division series. Lee is 4-4 with a 5.02 ERA in nine career starts against New York

The odds makers have the Yankees at –1 ½ favorites in Game 1 with a game total of 8.

The table for a great World Series as the teams are pretty evenly matched. My predication is Philadelphia in seven. The Phiilies take Game 1 since they saw Sabathia last year in the playoffs and beat him up pretty good, Game 2 belongs to the Yankees as they bounce back to even the series. The Phillies return to Citizens Ballpark taking two out of three to lead the series 3-2 and with New York squeaking out a win in Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7.

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Phiilies still waiting for outcome of ALCS

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:49:40 PDT

The Phillies will have to wait to see who they will face off against in the 2009 World Series, as the Angels recovered from a two run deficit to beat the Yankees 7-6 in Game 5 on Thursday in Anaheim.

It’s was a comeback of epic proportions as the Angels put together a game-winning rally in the bottom of the seventh to extend the AL Championship Series to a sixth game tonight in New York.

Trailing 6-4, Bobby Abreu drove in one run with a groundout, while Vladimir Guerrero swatted in the tying run and Kendry Morales knocked in what would eventually be the game-winner.
Angles Catcher Jeff Mathis started the rally with a single. Mathis set a postseason club record with six consecutive at-bats with hits, in Games 2, 3 and 5.

LHP John Lackey shut out the Yankees for six innings before being pulled in the seventh with bases loaded. The Yankees scored six times in the remainder of the inning to take a 6-4 lead.

The Angels will go with LHP Joe Saunders tonight on the mound. Saunders is 2-1 with a 6.28 ERA in five career starts against New York. He is 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA in one regular season start, with a no-decision in the2099 postseason.

New York’s Andy Pettite will be looking for his first playoff win as he gets the call in Game 6 for the Yankees. Pettite’s last appearance on Oct 17 resulted in a 5-4 loss against Anaheim. He has gone 12-10 in 28 starts against the Halos with a 4.70 ERA.

The odds makers have the Yankees at –1½ favorites in Game 6 with a total of 9.

The Angles will hope to extend their Game 5 rally into tonight’s ballgame, as the Yankees try and crush Anaheim’s World Series dreams.

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NFL Week 7 Preview

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:40:54 PDT

Week 7 is here and we are one third of the way through the season. Three of the remaining four unbeaten teams – Indianapolis (5-0), Minnesota (6-0) and New Orleans (5-0) – will be in action this week. Denver (6-0) has a bye in Week 7 after a 34-23 win at San Diego on Monday night. The four undefeated teams through the first six weeks are the most since the 1970 merger. My pick for game of the week is the Minnesota Vikings at the Pittsburgh Steelers. Two of the toughest rushing defenses going head to head. Teams with byes are Baltimore, Denver, Detroit, Jacksonville, Seattle, and Tennessee.

Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – New England Patriots @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Line: New England -14 ½ (Total 45)
The New England Patriots (4-2) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers will play at Wembley Stadium in Jolly Ole England this weekend as part of a multi-year commitment to play a limited number of games in the United Kingdom on an annual basis. This is technically a home game for the Bucs. The Pats are coming off a 59-0 win, crushing the Titans in Week 6. New England set an NFL record for the largest lead at halftime, 45-0, and QB Tom Brady notched his name in the NFL history books, recording five touchdown passes in a single quarter. The Buccaneers (0-6) are coming off a close loss to the Carolina Panthers last week. Tampa Bay rookie wide receiver and kick returner Sammie Stroughter had a 97-yard kick-return touchdown in the contest and finished with 207 yards. Look for the Patriots to have another big day with tons of points on the scoreboard. Cheerio’.

Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – Green Bay Packers @ Cleveland Browns
Line: Green Bay –7 (Total 42)
The Packers (3-2) committed a season-high 13 infractions for 130 yards in a 26-0 win over the Lions in Week 6. The teams pass protection has not gotten any better and they averaged a sub par 3.6 yards on the ground against a depleted Lions defense. The Browns (1-5) are still trying to find a solution for their quarterback situation as the team comes off another loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Browns defense gave up 543 yards of total offense to Pittsburgh, more than twice the Browns' total of 197. Pittsburgh's win marks the 12th win in a row and the 18th over the Browns in 19 games. The Packers come away with an easy road victory.

Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
Line: San Diego -5 ½ (Total 44)
Is it time to count San Diego (2-3) out of the chase? After only five games, the Chargers are trailing the Broncos by 3 ½ games following Monday's loss to Denver. Now they head to Arrowhead Stadium for what is always an intense rivalry game with the Chiefs. If Kansas City pulls off the win it will pay huge dividends to the Broncos, who would pretty much have the AFC West wrapped up, barring a total meltdown. The Chiefs (1-5) notched their first win in 11 months beating a Redskins team that is in turmoil in Week 6. QB Matt Cassel threw for just 186 yards against Washington, with no touchdowns. Pass protection continues to be a problem for Cassel who was sacked five times and hit on 10 other passing attempts. San Diego stays in the hunt with a win in KC.

Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – Indianapolis Colts @ St. Louis Rams
Line: Indianapolis -13 (Total 45)
There should be no question whether the Indianapolis Colts (5-0) will dispatch the Rams early in this one. The question is will Peyton Manning throw for over 500 yards against the struggling Rams? Indianapolis is coming off a bye week in which they were able to get some much-needed rest after a grueling five-game stretch to begin the season. The Colts are good just about everywhere. QB Peyton Manning has been on fire, completing 133-of-181 pass attempts (73.5 percent) for 1.645 yards, 12 touchdowns and four interceptions. He has a 114.1 passer rating. The Rams (0-6) are coming of an excruciating 23-20 overtime loss to Jacksonville on Sunday. St. Louis is winless in six games this season and has lost 16 consecutive games since defeating Dallas on Oct. 19, 2008. (Yawn). The Colts stay unbeaten and the Rams remain winless.

Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – San Francisco 49ers @ Houston Texans
Line: Houston –3 (Total 44)
San Francisco (3-2) continues to display no real offensive explosiveness and are ranked 29th offensively in the NFL in total yards through five games. Quarterback Shaun Hill has been sacked 16 times. The 49ers are surrendering sacks more frequently than all but three other teams. The Houston Texans (3-3) are a complete contrast to the 49ers. Houston can’t stop anyone, but the offense is unstoppable at times. QB Matt Schaub has had several 300-yard games. Houston’s 3-3 start equals the best in team history. It's the third time they've been .500 after six games. Houston finds a way to win this one at home with a late scoring drive.

Sunday, October 25 4:05 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh –4 (Total 45)
The Minnesota Vikings (6-0) eeked out a win in their last outing against the Ravens on Sunday at home, and now head to Pittsburgh to take on a team that has won three consecutive games. Vikings QB Brett Favre threw a 58-yard pass to wide receiver Sidney Rice late in the fourth quarter to set up the game-winning field goal. Pittsburgh improved to 4-2 last week with a 27-14 win over Cleveland. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger tossed for 417 yards, the fourth-highest total in club history, and two touchdowns as Pittsburgh racked up 543 yards of total offense. Wide receivers Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes each went over the 100-yard mark for the second time this season. This will be the toughest contest the Vikings will have played this season. Away from home and out of the dome, this one is too close to call.

Sunday, October 25 4:05 pm – Buffalo Bills @ Carolina Panthers
Line: ** (Total 40)
Buffalo (2-4) snapped their three-game losing streak and eight-game winless streak in AFC East games with their victory over the Jets last weekend. Buffalo ranks last in the league against the run, allowing an average of 181.8 yards per game, 10 yards per game worse than 31st-ranked Tampa Bay. The Bills continue to get dinged with injuries as QB Trent Edwards was knocked out in the second quarter of Sunday’s game, due to a concussion. Back up Ryan Fitzpatrick will most likely start against the Panthers on Sunday. Carolina (2-3) won their game on Sunday against Tampa Bay but did it on the ground, running 48 times for 267 yards and three touchdowns. The passing game is horrible. Wide receiver Steve Smith has just 21 catches for 259 yards and no touchdowns this season. Some how the Panthers get it done on the ground against a poor Buffalo defense.

Sunday, October 25 1:00 pm – Chicago @ Cincinnati Bengals
Line: Cincinnati –1.5 (Total 42)
The Bears’ (3-2) running game ranks 27th in yards per game (89.8) and 23rd in average gain per run (3.8 yards). In a loss to Atlanta on Sunday, quarterback Jay Cutler had 34-yards rushing, as the Bears ran for a measly 49 yards on 20 attempts, an average of 2.5 yards per carry. Matt Forte was especially ineffective with 23 yards on 15 tries for a 1.5-yard average. For the first time all year the Bears did not have a sack, and for the second year in a row they failed to sack the Falcons Matt Ryan, but did intercept him twice. Cincinnati (4-2) is coming off a loss at home last week to the Houston Texans. QB Carson Palmer completed 23 of 35 passes for 259 yards with a TD and one interception. WR Chad Ochocinco had his first 100-yard day since the last game of 2007, including a 50-yard reception. The leagues leading rusher Cedric Benson averaged a season-low 2.8 yards per carry against the Texans. Due to injuries, the once deep Bengals defensive line is now left in total disarray leaving one to wonder if this year’s magic might be over. Cincinnati will rely on Benson to pound it out on the ground against a mediocre Bears front line and win a close one at home.

Sunday, October 24 4:05pm – New York Jets @ Oakland Raiders
Line: New York–6.5 (Total 35)
The New York Jets (3-3) are coming off what could possibly be their worst outing of the season, and rookie QB Mark Sanchez showing his inexperience in his last three appearances. The Jets’ rushed for 318 yards against Buffalo, the second-most in team history but still managed to lose. Oakland (2-4) may have pulled off the biggest upset of the season beating the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, 13-9. Oakland had lost four of five games to start the year and 77 of their last 101. QB JaMarcus Russell completed 17 of 28 passes for 224 yards with an 86-yard touchdown pass Zach Miller, the only one in the game. Jets get a much needed when in Oakland in Week 7.

Sunday, October 18 4:15 pm – New Orleans Saints @ Miami Dolphins
Line: New Orleans – 6.5 (Total 47)
The New Orleans Saints (5-0) are smokin’. They lead the NFL averaging 38.4 points per game with the league’s top rushing offense -- 177.0 yards per game. The Saints knocked off the previously unbeaten New York Giants last week 48-27 as seven different players scored touchdowns in the game. Quarterback Drew Brees passed for 369 yards and four touchdowns, posting a near-perfect 156.8 passer rating. The Dolphins (2-3) have won two in a row including a win in Week 5 in Monday-night contest against division-rival the New York Jets. Back up QB Chad Henne passed for two touchdowns and posted a 130.4 rating in the game against New York, while running back Ronnie Brown ran for two touchdowns, including the game-winner with six seconds remaining. A solid Saints defense gets the job done while the offense has another record setting day.

Sunday, October 25 4:15 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ Dallas Cowboys
Line: Dallas -4 (Total 47)
The Falcons’ (4-1) Matt Ryan has guided Atlanta to seven wins in their last eight games and threw two touchdown passes in a Sunday night victory over the Chicago Bears. But it is more then the play of Ryan alone, as the Falcons seem to be clicking on both sides of the ball. The defense played tough and on four trips inside the Atlanta 20-yard line, the Bears came away with only one touchdown. The offensive line has not allowed a sack since the season opener. Tight end Tony Gonzalez leads all players at the tight end position with 471 receptions and 5,560 yards and with his first catch of the contest in the second quarter, improved his streak of consecutive games with a reception to 136. It's the third-longest active streak in the NFL. The Cowboys (3-2) are coming off a bye and defeated Kansas City in Week 5. Quarterback Tony Romo has been average at best; throwing just six touchdown passes with four interceptions and has a passer rating of 86.5. The pass blocking has been suspect and the receivers have not stepped up, with the exception of tight end Jason Witten, who ranks second with 422 catches and third with 4,847 yards. The Cowboys rank 27th in the league against the pass and have been average at best against the run, allowing 106.4 yards per game. Ryan leads Atlanta to 5-1, while Dallas drops to .500.

Sunday, October 25 8:20 pm – Arizona Cardinals @ New York Giants
Line: New York -7 (Total 47)
The 2008 NFC champion Arizona Cardinals (3-2) will do battle with the 2007 NFC champion New York Giants on Sunday night in the Big Apple. Cards QB Kurt Warner passed for 276 yards last week against the Seahawks, reaching 30,000 career yards, tying Hall of Famer Dan Marino for the fastest to reach that mark. The Cardinals are tied for first in the NFC West with San Francisco, and have won their first two road games of the season for the first time since 1991. Arizona is beginning to look like last years Super bowl runner up. New York (5-1) leads the NFC East and is coming off their first loss at New Orleans. The Giants were dominated in almost all aspects of the game. MVP quarterback Eli Manning, who has 11 touchdowns versus just three interceptions and ranks seventh in the NFL with a 102.2 passer rating, couldn't move the ball with any consistency against a tenacious Saints defense. Since the start of the 2008 season, Manning has won nine of his past 10 starts at Giants Stadium. Sunday makes it 11.

Monday, October 26 8:30 pm – Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins
Line: Philadelphia -7 (Total 38)
After an embarrassing loss to Oakland in Week 6, the Eagles (3-2) play another team that is in total shambles when they square off against the Washington Redskins this Monday night. The Raiders sacked quarterback Donovan McNabb sacked six times, while running backs Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy had a combined total of 11 rushing attempts. Michael Vick was on the field for just two plays the entire game. Donovan McNabb completed just 22 of 46 passes against the Raiders, and the defense gave up 224 passing yards to a guy who hadn't thrown for more than 128 since Week 1. The Redskins (2-4) lost to a Kansas City team that had been winless in their last five games. After failing to produce any points in the first half for the second time in three weeks, QB Jason Campbell was benched in favor of Todd Collins. Collins fared no better. Veteran running back Clinton Portis managed just 31 yards on 14 carries. The Redskins defense is the only thing keeping them in games. Look for the Eagles to take out last week’s monumental loss to the Raiders out on the Redskins, improving their record to 4-2 and moving into second place in the NFC East.

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Angels try to stay alive in Game 5

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:36:59 PDT

One day after the Phillies eliminated the Dodgers from their World Series bid; the Angels will try to stay alive in Game 5 of the ALCS against the New York Yankees tonight.

It’s do-or-die for Anaheim after a 10-1 shellacking in Game 4 on Tuesday, giving New York a 3-1 lead in the series. It was the second-worst postseason beating in Angels' history. They lost Game 5 of the 2002 World Series, 16-4, to the Giants.

Now Anaheim will need to win three in a row. Six of 28 teams have rallied from a 3-1 deficit in a league championship series - most recently in 2007, when the Boston Red Sox came back against Cleveland on the way to a World Series title.

Game 4 was a disaster for Anaheim as they faced a well-rested CC Sabathia and fared no better against him than they did in Game 1. Sabathia surrendered just one run on five hits over eight innings, while Angels LHP Scott Kazmir struggled with his control allowing five early runs on six hits and four walks, and was pulled midway through the fifth inning.

But overall the bullpen hasn’t been the problem for Anaheim. It’s the fact the Angels are only hitting .201 in the first four games of the ALCS and have scored just 10 runs in the series’ 42 innings. All this from a line up that set a team batting record of .285.during the regular season.

For the Yankees it’s all been pretty much perfect right down to Alex Rodriguez’s ability to solidifying his status as one of the best in the game. Rodriguez has helped his critics dismiss their concerns by hitting five home runs in the postseason, tying Reggie Jackson and pulling within one of Bernie Williams' team record.

The Angels will go with RHP John Lackey tonight on the mound. Lackey is 3-4 with a 3.03 ERA in 13 postseason appearances, and is 1-1 with a 1.38 ERA in two starts this year. He is 5-7 lifetime against the Yankees in 16 starts.

New York’s A.J. Burnett. Burnett is still looking for his first playoff win despite two decent outings in the same number of starts. He has a no-decision in Game 2, allowing just three hits and two earned runs over seven innings. He has had six-career start against the Angels, going 2-2.

The odds makers have the Angels at –1½ favorites in Game 5 with a total of 8 ½.

The Yankees will try and end the series tonight at Anaheim and capture the club's first World Series berth in six years. The Angles will need to wake their slumbering lumber and provide some much need offense behind a solid pitching performance from John Lackey.

NFL Week 6 Preview

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:53:23 PDT

Week 6 is here and there a couple of great games on the schedule. Looking back to 2008 Week 6, the Dallas Cowboys lost starting quarterback Tony Romo to a fractured left pinkie, forcing Romo to miss the next four games and quite possibly ruining the Cowboys playoff hopes, as they dropped 3 of 4 without their starter. My pick for game of the week is a tie between the New York Giants at the New Orleans Saints and the Monday night game of the Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers. San Diego took the AFC West title with the same 8-8 record as the Broncos. This match up may decide who wins the division this season. Teams with byes are the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, and the San Francisco 49ers.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Houston Texans @ Cincinnati Bengals
Line: Cincinnati –4.5 (Total 45)
The only thing that is worse than Cincinnati’s passing attack is their passing defense. The Texans (2-3) defense will have a difficult time containing the leagues leading rusher, Cedric Benson, so this should prove to be a high scoring affair. After beating Cleveland in Week 4, the Bengals (4-1) are coming off their second consecutive win, 17-14 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Cincy quarterback Carson Palmer has been successful against teams that stack the run. Houston has lost two of their last there, both on not being able to convert inside the red-zone. The Bengals are better at closing out games and will get the win at home.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers
Line: Green Bay –13.5 (Total 48)
Green Bay (2-2) has yet to prove they are a formable team by not being able to blow out anyone other then St. Louis. The Lions (1-4) have been on the losing edge of some very close contests. The Packers passing game could wreak havoc on a weak Lions secondary, but Detroit should be able to move the ball against a weak Green Bay defense as well. Detroit will need to get pressure on Aaron Rodgers with a decent pass rush against a questionable Packers o-line. This game will be decided late in the fourth quarter with Green Bay edging this one out a home.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – St. Louis Rams @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Line: Jacksonville -10 (Total 41)
The St. Louis Rams (0-5) are who are arguably the worst team in the league, have gotten blown out in three straight games and now travel to Jacksonville to take on the Jaguars (2-3), who were shutout 41-0 by the Seahawks in Week 5. The Jags beat the Titans by 20 at home and should be able to do the same to a much worse Rams team. Jacksonville will improve their record to 3-3 winning this one at home.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Baltimore Ravens @ Minnesota Vikings
Line: Minnesota -3 (Total 43)
The Ravens (3-2) may have the best chance yet of containing Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. The question is, can Baltimore’s poor secondary stop Minnesota’s passing game? Or will Favre exploit the Ravens weakness by passing for large amounts of yardage and multiple touchdowns? The Ravens should be able to pick up ample yardage as Minnesota’s (5-0) defense is not as good as one might think. They are 11th against the run and 17th against the pass. The last time these two teams met was on Dec. 25, 2005, with the Ravens winning 30-23 at home. The Vikings will triumph in this one, with multiple touchdown receptions.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – New York Giants @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans –3 (Total 47)
The Saints (4-0) have proven themselves to be the best team in the league this season by having one of the most potent offenses with a defense that is ranked 6th overall. The Giants (5-0) are coming off a bombing of the Oakland Raiders 44-7, but have narrowly escaped losses at Dallas, Kansas City and Washington. No they will face a very good team on the road. New Orleans is coming off a bye a have posted blowouts against the Eagles and Bills on the road and the Jets at home. The Saints defense is good against both the pass and the rush and the offense has been able to mix it up with both passing and rushing attacks. Look for Drew Brees to have a breakout day as the Saints improve to 5-0.

October 18 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh –14 (Total 38)
The Browns (1-4) are coming off their first win over the Bills, 6-3. Cleveland’s passing defense is ranked 11th in the league and could be a factor in keeping this game close, as the Steelers do nothing but pass. However, with the combination of a Browns defense that is ranked 32nd against the run and probably one of the most inept offenses in the NFL, I can’t see them scoring more than 10 points against a solid Steelers defense. Pittsburgh (3-2) will be able to move the ball well and if they utilize the run should be able to have extended periods of possession, controlling the clock. Steelers win by 14 to make it three straight victories.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm –Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Line: Carolina –3 (Total 40)
The Panthers (1-3) got its first victory of the season by rallying past Washington, 20-17 in their last outing and now may have a chance to increase their wining streak to two when they travel to Tampa Bay this week. The Buccaneers (0-5) has yet to prove the ability to beat a single team and was unable to keep up with Philadelphia Eagles in a 33-14 blow out in Week 5. Carolina won’t have to do much to defend against Tampa Bay and will win ths one on the road.

Sunday, October 18 1:00 pm – Kansas City Chiefs @ Washington Redskins
Line: Washington –6.5 (Total 37)
The Redskins (2-3) have yet to play a single team that has won more than one game, with the exception of the Giants in Week 1. Kansas City (0-5) was as close to a win as they had been all season in Week 5, falling to Dallas 26-20 in overtime. Now the two will square off in Week 6. Both teams are averaging less than 17 points a game, which puts them squarely in the lower third of the league, and are 24th and 25th in rushing yards per game. Washington should be able to move the ball through the air as Kansas City ranks 30th in pass defense. The Redskins win this low scoring affair at home.

Sunday, October 18 4:05 pm – Philadelphia Eagles @ Oakland Raiders
Line: Philadelphia - 14 (Total 41)
The Raiders (1-4) are coming of a 44-7 beating at the hands of the Giants and is off to a dreadful start, as they cannot find a way to get anything going on either side of the ball. The Raiders have only scored four touchdowns in five games. They are ranked last in the league in both total yards (191) and passing yards (108) per game. In addition, they are second to last in points scored and are averaging only nine points per game. The Eagles (3-1) finished up Week 5 with a 33-14 win over Tampa Bay and despite giving up 21 points per game, should not be challenged by the Raiders lack of offensive production, wining this one in the road.

Sunday, October 18 4:05 pm – Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks
Line: Seattle –3 (Total 47)
The Seahawks (2-3) are a better team with Matt Hasselbeck at the helm. Seattle is 0-3 without him, and 2-0 with him. He played a big part in last week's 41-0 mauling of Jacksonville. The Seahawks defense has allowed just eight points per game and has 10 sacks in three home games. The Cardinals (2-2) have struggled on offense this season and will have their work cut out for them when they visit Qwest Field on Sunday. The Seahawks will most likely attack the Cardinals with their ability to pass the ball against an Arizona defense that ranks last against the pass. Seahawks pull this one off at home.

Sunday, October 18 4:15 pm – Tennessee Titans @ New England Patriots
Line: New England - 9 (Total 43)
The Titans (0-5) are among the four winless teams in the NFL, and have been outscored 139-84 this season. Tennessee is 25th in total defense and is fourth-to-last in points allowed. They couldn’t stop the pass to save their lives (31st in the NFL). The Patriots (3-2) can pass the pigskin, which will probably lead to an all-out air assault against the Titans. The Pats are undefeated at home beating the likes of Baltimore and Atlanta. Tom Brady’s QB rating has dipped to 85.9 this year, but he still posses a threat with 1,341 yards through the air. New England rolls over Tennessee, as Titans fans wonder, “Where is Vince Young”?

Sunday, October 18 4:15 pm – Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets
Line: New York -9.5 (Total 38)
The Jets (3-2) are coming of a 31-27 loss to Miami on Monday night, and will look to stay tied for first with the New England Patriots in the AFC East when they take on division rival the Buffalo Bills. After starting 3-0, the Jets have lost two straight. Buffalo (1-4) has only managed eight touchdowns in five games this season with an average of 15.4 points per game, and are ranked 25th in the league with just 290 total yards per game. They are coming off a tough loss losing 6-3 to the Browns on Sunday. Buffalo’s pass defense ranks 6th, so the Jets will need to get their ground game going against the Bills who have shown that they have problems with stopping the run. The Jets defense is only giving up 17 points a game and is limiting their opponents to just 110 yards rushing per game. The Jets bounce back and get a victory at home.

Sunday, October 18 8:20 pm – Chicago Bears @ Atlanta Falcons
Line: Atlanta –3 (Total 46)
The Bears (3-1) are coming off a bye one week after destroying the Detroit Lions 48-24 in Week 4.Chicago has also beaten Pittsburgh and Green Bay and would probably be atop the division if not for an undefeated Minnesota Vikings. The Falcons (3-1) spanked the 49ers in their last outing 45-10, with their only loss coming by way of the New England Patriots in the previous week. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan is 2-for-2 this year at home and he looked good last week against San Francisco on the road. Defense will be key as both teams have proved they can put big numbers on the board. This one will be close and high scoring, with the Falcons coming away with the win at home.

Monday, October 19 8:30 pm – Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers
Line: San Diego –3.5 (Total 44)
The Denver Broncos (5-0) are one of five undefeated teams and are coming off a win against the Patriots in Week 5. The Broncos now have their sights set on beating division rival the San Diego Chargers in front of a national television audience on Monday night. The Chargers (2-2) managed to almost lose to the Raiders in Week 1, then lost to the Steelers and have generally played awful with the exception of their passing game. But that may be fruitless as Denver’s defense has been tremendous, and is ranked 5th against the pass. The Broncos offensive line has been solid and QB Kyle Orton has been one of the most accurate passers in the league with only one interception thus far. Denver is also ranked 4th in the league in total rushing yards. San Diego’s Philip Rivers is putting together another great season, throwing for 1,245 yards, and averaging eight yards per attempt. San Diego will need to get on the board early and find a way to put some pressure on Orton. Denver wins a big one at Mile High.

Matt Martz is a sports writer for located in Central California. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.

NFL Week 5 Preview

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:50:09 PDT

Week five is here and we are already one quarter of the way through the 2009 NFL season. This week teams will begin to spread out and separate themselves in the standings. The Titans are still looking for a win at 0-4, a long way from the 13-3 they were in 2008. After losing two straight, last years Champion Pittsburgh Steelers evened their record at 2-2 with an impressive win over the San Diego Chargers, and the Denver Broncos are 4-0 post Cutler era. My pick for best game of the week is New England at Denver. Week four team bye weeks are, the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints, and the San Diego Chargers.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills
Line: Buffalo –6 (Total 40)
The Browns (0-4) Derek Anderson might have secured the quarterback job for the rest of the season following his 269-yard, one-touchdown game against the Bengals in week four. WR Mohammed Massaquoi caught eight passes for 148 yards. But Cleveland’s defense still remains a question mark. The Bills (1-3) fell behind 31-3 heading into the final quarter and never recovered losing to the Dolphins 38-10 in their last outing. RB Fred Jackson has 18 receptions for 160 yards while Bills No. 1 receiver Terrell Owens is 8-for-158. Need I say more? The Bills win this one in a low scoring affair against a questionable Browns defense.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Dallas Cowboys @ Kansas City Chiefs
Line: Dallas –8.5 (Total 43)
The Cowboys (2-2) have posted two victories against teams with winless records, and two losses against teams that are undefeated. Posing the question, can Dallas be a contender against the leagues top teams? The answer is doubtful. Tony Romo has gone two consecutive games without throwing a touchdown pass, the defense is mediocre at best, and the running attack is has been hampered by Marion Barber’s nagging quad strain. Kansas City’s woes are many but it could boil down to just one thing. The Chiefs (0-4) cannot convert on third downs. They have converted just nine of 51, less than 18 percent, and are dead last in the NFL in third-down conversions. Look for Dallas to get the win against another team with a winless record.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ St. Louis Rams
Line: ** (Total **)
The Vikings (0-4) are atop the NFC North and are coming off an impressive win or rival the Green Bay Packers. QB Brett Favre was 24-31, for 271 yards and 3 TDs against his former team. But even with Favre the Vikings success is also their ability to run the ball. RB Adrian Peterson is averaging 103 yards per game with 5 TDs on the year. The Vikings have had the NFL's best defense against the run the past three seasons, but have also improved their pass defense. The Rams (0-4) were shut out 35-0 by the 49ers in their last outing and continue to struggle putting points on the board, having only scored 24 points in their last four. Things just don’t seem to get any better for St. Louis heading into week five, as the will still be without RB Frank Gore and starting QB Marc Bulger is considered questionable for Sunday's game against Minnesota. The Vikings improve their record to 5-0 after Sunday’s contest.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Oakland Raiders @ New York Giants
Line: New York –16 (Total 41)
The Giants (4-0) cruised to an easy victory over the last place AFC west Chiefs on Sunday and will square off against the Oakland Raiders -- the second worst team in the AFC west, in week five. New York WR Steve Smith has 34 receptions in the first four games, the most-ever by a Giants receiver in the first four games of a season. QB Eli Manning was reported to have injured his heel in last week’s game against the Chiefs, but the latest is that it is a minor injury and he will be allowed to play. This is good news for the Giants but bad news for the Raiders who are looking for a break. Oakland (1-3) is just plain awful. QB JaMarcus Russell was 12-for-33 for 128 yards in his last outing against the Texans, but you can’t blame him alone. Oakland’s receiving corp dropped nine passes, catching just four of 16. The Giants tenacious defense and potent offense will humiliate the Raiders and send them home 1-4.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Philadelphia Eagles
Line: Carolina ** (Total **)
Tampa Bay (0-4) led 10-0 at the half in their last game against the Redskins but fell apart losing by a final of 16-13. The Bucs are sticking with rookie quarterback Josh Johnson who made his first NFL start Sunday against the Redskins, passing for 106 yards with a touchdown and an interception while rushing for 44 yards. RB Cadillac Williams has struggled and the Bucs defense rates a C- at best. The Eagles (2-1) are coming off their bye week and should make quick work of Tampa Bay. Quarterback Donovan McNabb is expected to start Sunday’s game, and it has been announced that Michael Vick will dress but his role is yet to be defined. Tight end Brent Celek has 22 receptions in the first three games, while wide receiver DeSean Jackson is averaging 21.6 yards per reception. The Eagles have registered six interceptions and 10 sacks in their first three games and have held opponents to 3.6 yards per carry average. Look for the Eagles to dominate the Bucs and improve to 3-1.

October 11 1:00 pm – Pittsburgh Steelers @ Detroit Lions
Line: Pittsburgh –10.5 (Total 44)
The Steelers (2-2) find themselves in third place in their division with a slow 1-2 start but rebounded nicely beating San Diego in week four. QB Ben Roethlisberger was practically perfect; completing 26 of 33 passes for 333 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions with a 128.9 passer rating. The Steelers run defense has been solid and the return of SS Troy Polamalu should improve the passing defense. Just when the Lions (1-3) shook the winless monkey off their back in week three, QB Matt Stafford suffered a right knee injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 48-24 loss at Chicago. Initial reports have stated Stafford suffered a dislocated, or partially dislocated, kneecap and that it popped back into place, but his start on Sunday is questionable. The Lions will also be without WR’s Adam Jennings and Calvin Johnson who were placed on injured reserve. The Steelers will dominant the Lions and walk away with the win.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Washington Redskins @ Carolina Panthers
Line: Carolina –3.5 (Total 37)
The Redskins (2-2) are coming off a win over the Buccaneers in week four and will have a chance at two straight when the face off against the 0-3 Carolina Panthers. RB Clinton Portis continues to be Washington’s bright spot on offense and would have had his first 100-yard game of the year if not for a penalty on Malcolm Kelly during Sunday’s game. Playing through an injury Portis chewed up 79 yards on 18 carries. The Panthers have had a rough start and are hoping to turn things around after a much needed week four bye. On offense, the Panthers have struggled and defensively, have given up 182.7 rushing yards per game. QB Jake Delhomme is 32nd in the league in quarterback rating .The Redskins will stack the box stopping the run to take this one on the road.

Sunday, October 11 1:00 pm – Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens
Line: Baltimore -8 (Total 42)
The Bengals (3-1) find themselves tied with the Ravens atop the AFC north division after a come from behind win over the Browns last weekend. The winner of week fives match up will move into sole possession of first place in the division. The Bengals lost both games to the Ravens in 2008 and will try to end the run this weekend. Baltimore (3-1) is coming off their first loss of the season to the New England Patriots. QB Joe Flacco was 27-47 for 264 yards with 2 TDs, and 1 INT. The Ravens have averaged 33 rushing attempts in the first three games, but ran it only 17 times on Sunday. RB Ray Rice rushed for 103 yards on 11 carries. The Benglas will have their hands full with their first true test of the season. The Ravens edge out Cincinnati in a close one relying on their solid defense to get the win at home.

Sunday, October 11 4:05 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ San Francisco 49ers
Line: San Francisco –2.5 (Total 41)
The Atlanta Falcons (2-1) are coming off a bye into week five, and should be well rested. TE Tony Gonzalez has proven to be a big boost to the team's passing game, while the Falcons are trying to find its trademark running game. Quarterback Matt Ryan has shown development in his sophomore year and is hitting almost 66 percent of his passes, hooking up with Gonzalez on numerous occasions. San Francisco (3-1) has surprised everyone as is first in the NFC west heading into week five. Much of the 49ers success can be based on a stout defense and an offensive line that controls the line of scrimmage. With RB Frank Gore out of the lineup with ankle injuries, rookie Glen Coffee will continue to get the call. San Francisco’s defense will force Ravens Matt Ryan to throw the ball more as they shut down the running game and win this one at home.

Sunday, October 11 4:15 pm – Jacksonville Jaguars @ Seattle Seahawks
Line: ** (Total **)
Jacksonville started out the season 0-2 but is coming off a big 37-17 win over the Titans, evening their record to 2-2. QB David Garrard was 27-37 for 323 yards with 3 TD tosses in Sundays match, as the Jags wasted no time in launching an air assault against a tough Titans run defense. The Jags have also switched up their defense from a 4-3 to a 3-4 and it has proved successful. The Seahawks (1-3) are suffering through another injury-plagued start to a season. Starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has missed the last two games with a fractured rib he suffered in the game against San Francisco in week two, and is still listed as questionable to start against Jacksonville on Sunday. Seattle needs to get its ground game going in order to try and keep the ball away the Jags. With Hasselback, the Seahawks win this one at home, without they slip to 1-4.

Sunday, October 11 4:15 pm – Houston Texans @ Arizona Cardinals
Line: Arizona –5.5 (Total 48)
Despite a decisive win over the Raiders holding Oakland to just six points in their last appearance, the Houston Texans (2-2) are ranked 25th in the NFL in total defense and 22nd in scoring defense. The Texans have added defensive personnel and should get a much better idea whether the new additions to the starting secondary are tangible against Arizona this weeked. The secondary will have its share of challenges covering the Cardinals receiving corp. The Cardinals (1-2) haven't played nearly as well in three games as they did in the playoff run last season. The Redbirds should benefit from their recent bye week. The run game is struggling, and the pass protection has been poor with quarterback Kurt Warner being sacked seven times, in two losses.Much of the pressure to improve falls upon the offensive line. The Cardinals need to take a more balanced approach on offense and get rookie running Beanie Wells involved. Look for Arizona to rebound and even their record against the Texans at home.

Sunday, October 11 4:15 pm – New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos
Line: New England -3 (Total 41)
The Denver Broncos (4-0) will face their toughest opponent so far this season and new head coach Josh McDaniels will have a chance to beat his former team when the Patriots visit Mile High on Sunday. Denver has fared much better than most thought post Cutler. QB Kyle Orton doesn't always look pretty, but he is getting the job done and WR Brandon Marshall is coming on. The defense remains solid, anchored by veteran CB Champ Bailey. Behind the leadership of MVP quarterback Tom Brady who arguably had his best game of the season against the Ravens last weekend, the Patriots (3-1) have proven they are still the team to beat. The Pats defense has improved despite key personal changes and has allowed just six touchdowns in four games. This will be a hard fought battle with Pats winning on a late fourth quarter scoring drive.

Sunday, October 11 8:20 pm – Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans
Line: Indianapolis –3.5 (Total 46)
“Remember the Titans? (of 2008). With Tennessee’s abysmal start this season one has to wonder why QB Vince Young has yet to start a game. Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher has given no indication that he is about to make a change and is sticking with veteran QB Kerry Collins. Collins hasn’t played as well as he did in 2008 and already has five interceptions after having only seven all of last season. The Colts (4-0) are one of the five remaining undefeated teams and have stepped up their defense allowing just 73 yards rushing over the past two games in wins over Arizona and Seattle, after giving up 353 yards in the first two games in wins over Jacksonville and Miami. On the other side of the ball QB Peyton Manning has been on a roll through the first four games of the season. Manning was nearly unstoppable in last weeks win over Seattle, completing 31-of-41 passes for 353 yards, two touchdowns and had one interception. Manning completed passes to seven different receivers. The Titans will lose at home, distancing themselves from any chance of a postseason run.

Monday, October 12 8:30 pm – New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins
Line: New York –2 (Total 37)
Jets rookie QB Mark Sanchez has surprised a lot of people by avoiding typical rookie mistakes in the Jets first three games. However, it all fell apart in Sunday’s match up against the Saints. Sanchez threw three interceptions, one for a 99-yard TD by Darren Sharper, and losing a strip sack in his own end zone for another New Orleans touchdown. He also threw two fourth-quarter picks and was sacked four times. New York’s defense was solid considering that the Saints came into the game averaging 438 yards of offense, but was held to 343 by the Jets (3-1). The Dolphins (1-3) finally got some relief after posting their first victory of the 2009 season with a big win against the Bills on Sunday. QB Chad Henne was mistake-free in his first professional start, replacing injured starter Chad Pennington, going 14-for-22 passing for 115 yards and no interceptions. For a team with a losing record, the Fins have had little trouble running the ball with their running back trio of Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams and Patrick Cobbs. They lead the league with 183.5 yards rushing per game. The Jets will need to shut down Miami’s wildcat offense if they want to win this one. The Fins lost to the Jets at home in week one last year and then beat the Jets in the last game of the 2008 season. Look for Sanchez to lead the Jets to a victory at Land Shark stadium and claim his first ever Monday Night Football victory.

Matt Martz is a sports writer for the Bakersfield Californian located in Central California. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.

Follow me on www.capperspicks.com

Rockies pull even with Phillies

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:43:00 PDT

After the Phillies cruised to a 5-1 victory over the wild-card Rockies in game one behind a solid performance from postseason rookie starter Cliff Lee, Colorado edged out Philadelphia 5-4 in Game 2 to even the series, snapping the Phillies eight postseason game-winning streak and tagging World Series and NLCS MVP starter Cole Hamels for seven hits and four earned runs (including a solo homer) in just five innings on the mound.

Before Thursday's win at Philadelphia, the Rockies had lost five consecutive postseason games, dating back to 2007, when the Red Sox swept them in the World Series. This was Colorado's first win in the postseason since they completed a four-game sweep of the Diamondbacks in the 2007 NLCS.

The best-of-five series shifts to Coors Field for Game 2 on Saturday where the forecast calls for freezing drizzle and flurries possible with temperatures in the upper 20s and lower 30s during the game. The Rockies went 51-30 during the regular season at Coors Field, but lost one of two season series at home to the Phillies in early April.

Jason Hammel (10-8) will start for the Rockies against Pedro Martinez (5-1) as the Phillies try to become the first repeat champions since the New York Yankees won three World Series in a row from 1998-2000. No NL team has done it since the Cincinnati Reds in 1975-76. Hammel is 1-1 lifetime against the Phillies with an 8-3 win on Aug. 4 (6.2 IP, 9 H, 3 ER, 6 K, 0 BB). Martinez has a career record of 10-9 against the Rockies but none of those in a Phillies uniform. He hasn’t pitched since Sept. 29, throwing 130 pitches through seven innings against the Mets. However, his postseason experience has earned him the start

How important is a win in Game 3? Since wild-card play began in 1995, 11 best-of-five NL Division Series have been tied at 1-1 after two games. The winner of Game 3 has won nine of those series.

The odds makers are still behind the Phillies as the favorite in the Game 3 and the series.

Look for the Rockies to take a 2-1 lead in the series with a big win at home.

Angels blank Boston in Game 1; look to end streak

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:39:23 PDT

Torii Hunter’s three-run home run in the fifth broke a scoreless deadlock and propelled the Angels to a 5-0 shut out over the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the American League Division Series on Thursday night.

Anaheim took the lead in a playoff series with the Red Sox for the first time since 1986, as starter John Lackey recorded his first postseason victory since Game 7 of the 2002 World Series and helped the Angels to their first shutout in a 53 postseason games.

It seems like deja vuos as the Red Sox and Angels meet for the third straight time in a divisional series and the fourth time in the last six seasons. Anaheim is 1-9 in their last 10 postseason appearances against Boston, scoring just 29 runs. Will they finally be able to beat the Red Sox?

The Angels took the season series 5-4 from the Red Sox, holding them to about 4.5 runs per game while scoring about five runs per game.

This should prove to be an exciting series as these two teams could not be more evenly matched.

The two clubs differ by just two points in OBP, but the Angels batting average is 15 points higher, and they have outscored the Red Sox. However, Boston’s SLG comes in at .184 compared to .156 for Anaheim. Boston scored 331 runs on homers, second in the American League behind the New York Yankees.

The series will come down to how deep into the game the Angels’ starters will pitch. Anaheim has four starters that are on top of their game but have a combined 1-3 record with a 4.10 ERA and 1.39 WHIP in their post-season history versus Boston. They will also need all four starters to complete seven innings, minimizing the Angel’s bullpen weakness. The Halos just don’t have the depth that Boston has. The Red Sox are coming into the series with a bullpen whose ERA was 0.69 runs better than the Anaheim. They rank third in runs allowed per game, and give up a low number of unearned runs. The Red Sox bullpen strikes out a ton of batters, and they allow few home runs. Something the Angels may have problems with. But with only to quality starters, Lester and Beckett, the remaining rotation is not capable of going the distance, and will force Boston to overwork their pen early in the ballgame.

With a career record of 8-8 against the Red Sox, Jered Weaver (16-8) will get the call for the Angels in Game 2. Boston righty Josh Beckett (17-6), who is also 8-8 lifetime against Anaheim, will be summoned to help even the series before heading back to Fenway for Game 3 on Sunday.

Despite losing Game 1, the odds makers have the Red Sox at –1.5 favorites and a combined total of 8.

Look for the Angles to power their way to another win in Game 2 on Friday at Anaheim to move ahead in the series 2-0.

College Football Thurs and Fri Predictions

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:45:19 PDT

THURSDAY OCTOBER 1, 2009

Colorado Buffaloes (1-2) v West Virginia Mountaineers (2-1)
Colorado: 1-2 ATS / Mountaineers: 1-1 ATS
The Buffaloes will be looking for a win on the road to even their record on Thursday when they meet at Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium. The Mountaineers are currently listed as 17-point favorites, while the game's total has been set at 54. Colorado will rely on RB Rodney Stewart who posted his fourth 100-yard rushing game of his career piled up 132 yards and a pair of TDs in Week 3, in a 24-0 win over Wyoming. The Buffaloes covered the 7-point spread in that game, while the combined score fell well UNDER the day's posted total of 51. The Mountaineers lost in Week 3 to Auburn 41-30. They entered the game as 7-point underdogs. The game's total of 71 points was way OVER the posted 55. RB Noel Devine had 14 carries for 119 yards, including a 71-yard sprint and came away with three touchdowns, despite the loss. QB Jarrett Brown tossed four interceptions and a lost fumble in his last outing and will need to correct the turnover problems if the Mountaineers expect a win. The two teams met last season with Colorado coming out on top 17-14. Look for the Buffaloes to pull of the win in a repeat of last years meeting.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles (3-1) v UAB Blazers (1-3)
Southern Miss: 1-2 ATS / Blazers: 1-3 ATS
The Blazers will try to notch a win at home when they square off against the Golden Eagles and on Thursday when at Legion Field. Golden Eagles QB Austin Davis rushed for five touchdowns and threw for another in a 70-14 victory when these two teams met in 2008. Odds have not been posted for this game. Southern Miss QB Austin Davis totaled 340 yards passing with three touchdowns and one interception in a 35-28 loss to Kansas in Week 4. The Golden Eagles did cover the 11.5-point spread, and the final score was OVER the day's posted total of 58.5. UAB lost big to Texas A&M by a score of 56-19 in Week 4. Texas A&M covered the 14.5-point spread and as the final score played over the 65-point total. The Golden Eagles have outscored the Blazers by a combined 107-21 margin in the past two meetings and own a perfect 9-0 record in the all-time series. This game will be run won the ground, and the Blazers have rushed for a minimum 200 yards in three of four games this season, including 229 yards in their loss to Texas A&M. Look for Southern Miss to win this one on the road.

FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2009

Pittsburgh Panthers (3-1) v Louisville Cardinals (1-2)
Pittsburgh: 2-1 ATS / Louisville: 1-1 ATS
The Cardinals will be looking to right last year's 41-7 rout against the Panthers when the two teams face off on Friday night at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium. Pittsburgh will be looking for its 14th victory in the last 18 games. The odds currently have the Panthers as 7-point favorites, while the game's total has been set at 53. Pittsburgh is coming off a 38-31 loss to North Carolina State in Week 4. NC State covered the spread as a 2-point home underdog while the final score played over the 47.5-point total. The Cardinals are currently on a two game losing skid coming off a 30-14 loss last week against Utah. The Utes covered as a 14-point home favorite while the final score played under the 52.5-point total. The Panthers have lost their last three games in Louisville, going back to 1983. The Cardinals cannot afford to fall behind in this one and allow the Panthers an opportunity to work the clock in the second half. Look for Pittsburgh to end the streak and win big in a repeat of 2008.

Utah Aggies (1-2) v BYU Cougars (3-1)
Aggies: 2-1 ATS / Cougars: 3-1 ATS
The No. 8 Cougars are listed as 24-point favorites and the games total is set at 64. The Cougs are tough to beat at home and are coming off a 42-23 win over Colorado State at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Week 4.Colorado State covered as a 19.5-point road underdog while the final score played over the 56-point total. These two teams meet last on October 3, 2008, when BYU walked away with a 34-14 win, extending their wining streak to 15. The Aggies has lost to BYU nine consecutive times. The last time Utah defeated the Cougars in Provo was in 1978. The Aggies has put up more than 1,100 yards of offense combined in the past two games will need a solid performance by their defense to have a shot at beating a team that has won 19 of its last 20 home games. Cougars QB Max Hall has thrown for eight touchdowns and has completed passes to 12 different receivers this season, but also has eight interceptions. Hall will have an opportunity to come away with some big passing yards against a poor Aggies defense. BYU continues the streak and gets the victory at home.

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NFL Week 4 Preview

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:37:48 PDT

Week four is packed with some of the most exciting games of the first half. My pick for best game of the week is a three-way tie between the Jets at the Saints, Chargers at the Steelers and the Green Bay Packers at the Minnesota Vikings. Brett Favre had a big week four in 2008; throwing six touchdown passes against the Arizona Cardinals. Can he repeat this week against his former team? Week four team bye weeks are, the Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears
Line: Chicago -10 (Total 39)
These two NFC north rivals will face off with the Lions (1-2) coming off their first win in 19 games after beating the Redskins in week three. Rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford threw no interceptions, after throwing five in his first two NFL games. He will look for target Calvin Johnson to create big plays. The Bears’ (2-1) Jay Cutler completed 21 of 27 for 247 yards and a pair of touchdowns in a win against the Seahawks. The Bears are still struggling to get their rushing game going, but their offense will be enough to beat the Lions at home.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns
Line: Cincinnati -5 (Total 38)
The Browns are 0-3 and have scored only one offensive touchdown. Starter Brady Quinn was yanked at the half during Sunday’s 34-3 loss to Baltimore and back up Derek Anderson fared no better in the second half of play. Quinn’s quarterback rating of 62.9 ranks 29th among the league’s 32 starting quarterbacks. The Bengals (2-1) are coming off a close win against the Steelers. QB Carson Palmer and receiver Chad Johnson are still yet to gel this season. This will be a sloppy game with Bengals edging out Cleveland at home.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Seattle Seahawks @ Indianapolis Colts
Line: Indianapolis -9 (Total **)
This may prove to be one of the best QB duels of the season if Matt Hasselback is cleared to play on Sunday against Peyton Manning and the Colts (3-0). Manning threw 24-35, 379 yards and 4 TDs in a win over the Cardinals in week three, while Hasselback remained sidelined with a cracked rib. The Seahawks (1-2) running back Julius Jones finished with 98 yards on 20 carries for a 5.2 yard-per-carry average in a loss to the Bears last week. The Colts D will hold off most of what the Seahawks will throw at them and edge out a win at home in this one.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – New York Giants @ Kansas City Chiefs
Line: New York -9 (Total 42)
The Chiefs (0-3) Matt Cassel has not lived up to his 124.5 passer rating thus far as he threw just two TD passes and no interceptions, but for just 90 yards in his last outing against the Eagles. The Giants’ (3-0) Eli Manning will have no problems dissecting the Chiefs weak secondary. New York will get an easy win, hitting Kansas City with an effective run-pass combo.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots
Line: New England -2 (Total 45)
This could be the game of the week, as the Ravens (3-0) will bring their dominating defense head-to-head with the Patriots (2-1) explosive offense. The Pats will have their work cut out for them as the Ravens have allowed just 17.6 points per game. Baltimore will attack with the running game using RB Willis McGahee against the Pats front line. This will be a tight one with the Pats eeking out a narrow win on a fourth quarter drive.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Washington Redskins
Line: Washington -7 (Total 37)
The Bucs (0-3) are coming off a 24-0 loss to the Giants in week three, and are changing quarterbacks as Josh Johnson will replace Byron Leftwich under center for Sunday's game at Washington. The Redskins are going to need to bounce back after their loss to the Detroit Lions last week. Washington needs to get their running game going early and will rely heavily on RB Clinton Portis to get it done. The Redskins will take this one at home.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Line: Tennessee -2 (Total 41)
The Titans (0-3) will look to get their fist win of the season on the road in Jacksonville this weekend. Tennessee find themselves not only in last place in the AFC South, but now needing to find quick fixes for every aspect of the team as they continue to find new ways to lose. The Jags (1-2) are coming off their first win of the season beating Houston on the road. Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for 119 yards on 23 carries and 3 TDs, against the Texans. Jacksonville wins this one at home as the Titans fall to 0-4.

Sunday, October 4 1:00 pm – Oakland Raiders @ Houston Texans
Line: Houston -9 (Total 41)
The Raiders (1-2) are coming off a lopsided 23-3 loss to Denver and have gotten little in return for their investment of high draft picks – combining for a 25-74 record, the NFL’s worst since 2003. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in 2007, completed 12 of 21 passes for just 61 yards and had two interceptions against the Broncos on Sunday. Wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, the No. 7 overall pick in 2009, has one catch in three games for 17 yards. The Texans (1-2) Matt Schaub continues to impress and was 26-35, for 300 yards and 3 TDs, with just 1 INT despite a 31-24 lost to Jacksonville in his last outing. Houston wins this one at home.

Sunday, October 4 4:05 pm – New York Jets @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans -7 (Total 46)
The Saints (3-0) has become the first NFL team since 2001 to score 40 points or more in the first two games of a season while piling up 936 total yards. The defense has also played well allowing just 18.6 points per game. The Jets are all about defense, but lets not leave out the fact that rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez is having a great first year, including going 17-30, for 171 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 4 runs for 10 yards and 1 TD, in a 24-17 win over the Titans in week three. This will be a high scoring affair with the Saints Drew Brees proving to be too much for the Jets, ending their unbeaten streak.

Sunday, October 4 4:05 pm – Buffalo Bill @ Miami Dolphins
Line: Buffalo –2 (Total 37)
The Bills (1-2) managed just seven points against the Saints last week as Terrell Owens was held without a catch for first time since his rookie season in 1996. I don’t see the Fins keeping TO out of this one. The Bills will need to bounce back and QB Trent Edwards will be relied upon to get the team back on track. The Dolphins (0-3) are yet to win a game with their latest loss to San Diego. It appears that Fins starting QB Chad Pennington is out for the season with a torn capsule and headed for the third shoulder operation in his 10-year career. So the future now belongs to back up Chad Henne. The Bills come up with a big road victory in this one.

Sunday, October 4 4:15 pm – St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers
Line: San Francisco –10 (Total 38)
The Rams lost their third consecutive game Sunday; the 13th straight for the Rams, the longest streak in the league, and the Rams have now started the last three seasons with records of 0-8, 0-4 and now 0-3. With QB Marc Bulger possibly sidelined with a shoulder injury, St. Louis will look their running game and RB Steven Jackson. Jackson played well in Sunday’s game with 117 yards on 27 carries. San Francisco (2-1) lost a close one to the Vikings on the road in week three and could be this years Cinderella story and NFC West winner. They will rely heavily on RB Frank Gore to plow his way through a weak Rams defense leading then to a win at home.

Sunday, October 4 4:15 pm – Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos
Line: Dallas -3 (Total 43)
The Cowboys’ (2-1) QB Tony Romo bounced back from a horrific performance in week two against the Giants and led the Cowboys to their first victory at new Cowboys Stadium beating the Carolina Panthers, 21-7. Romo will need a solid performance when the team takes on the Broncos at Mile High Stadium on Sunday. The Broncos (3-0) despite the loss of QB Jay Cutler in the off-season, are sitting atop the AFC West. Bit their schedule will get much tougher starting this week against Dallas, then New England and San Diego. The team has come a long way since a choppy first game of the season, and pushed the Raiders around in a 23-3 win last week. Quarterback Kyle Orton has been solid and has stepped up since Cutler’s departure. The defense has allowed only 16 points in three games and Denver is showing they are a tough, physical team. Broncos win this one at home.

Sunday, October 4 8:20 pm – San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh -6 (Total 43)
The Chargers (2-1) explosive offense will face off against a Steelers (1-2) defense that has shown signs of weakening in their last two outings. The Steelers have forced only two turnovers in three games -- an interception and a fumble recovery. They will need strong performances on both sides to the ball, and rely on veteran QB Ben Roethlisberger to have a good outing. The Chargers after being pushed around by the Raiders and Ravens in their first two games beat the Dolphins in week three despite a running game that is only averaging 66 yards per game. Replacement RB Darren Sproles has averaged only 30 yards per game since replacing the injured LaDainian Tomlinson. Despite a hiccup to their running game San Diego will put up the needed numbers to pull of the upset at Heinz Field.

Monday, October 5 8:30 pm – Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
Line: Minnesota –3 (Total 47)
In a highly anticipated Monday Night Football match up, Brett Favre will suit up against his former team — the Green Bay Packers. The Vikings’ (3-0) Adrian Peterson will put on a running display in front of a national audience, chewing up decent yardage against a so-so Packers run defense. The Packers (2-1) will look to QB Aaron Rodgers to make the big plays, keeping Green Bay in it until Minnesota’s defense forces a big turnover late in the fourth, keeping the Vikings win streak alive.

Matt Martz is a freelance writer located in Central California. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.

NFL Week 3 Preview

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:53:33 PDT

Week three is already upon us and after two weeks under their belts teams will begin to show their true identities. There are several games in week three that will prove to be important in early division positioning and begin to show where some of the teams may end up by seasons end. My pick for best game of the week is the Indianapolis Colts at the Arizona Cardinals. Manning versus Warner should be an offensive battle. Both teams have high expectations of these two veteran Pro Bowl Quarterbacks, both who are coming off exciting week two wins.

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Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Tennessee Titans @ New York Jets

Line: New York -2 (Total 37)

The Titans lost just three games in 2008, one of which came against the New York Jets in week 12. Tennessee is currently 0-2, coming off a close loss at the Houston Texans. The Jets are off to a quick 2-0 start behind rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez, including a victory in week two over the New England Patriots. Sanchez was 14-22, 163 yards, and 1 TD against the Pats. Look for the Jets to win this one at home.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Green Bay Packers @ St. Louis Rams

Line: Green Bay –6 (Total 41)

The Packers haven’t been the same since the post-Favre era, but quarterback Aaron Rodgers is looking to change that. Rodgers was 21-39, for 261 yards and 1 TD despite a loss to the Bengals last week. The Rams will pound it out on the ground, creating problems for the Packers defense. Look for Green Bay to repeat a week three loss in 2009.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Washington Redskins @ Detroit Lions

Line: Washington -6 (Total 38)

Coming off a 9-7 win over the Rams, the Redskins head to the Detroit Lions looking for their first road victory early in the season. Washington’s improved defense should pose a problem for a young Lions offense. First year quarterback Matt Stafford will be searching for second year man Calvin Johnson to pass to. The 0-2 Lions will look to pick themselves up from a loss to the Vikings in their last outing and snap their 18 game losing streak. Despite Detroit’s efforts the Redskins walk away with the win.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Atlanta Falcons @ New England Patriots

Line: New England -4 (Total 44)

The Falcons starting quarterback Matt Ryan looked good in last weeks win against the Panthers. Ryan was 21-27, 220 yards, 3 TDs, and 1 INT. Ryan now gets an opportunity to face off against Tom Brady and the Patriots. It will be Atlanta’s first road game of the season. The Pats will still be trying to figure out what hit them in New York last week, losing to the Jets 16-9. Pats quarterback Tom Brady tossed just 23 completions in 47 attempts for 216 yards and no TDs. Brady’s favorite target Randy Moss, had a meager four receptions for a total of 24 yards. Look for the Pats to bounce back and win this one at home.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Jacksonville Jaguars @ Houston Texans

Line: Houston –4 (Total 47)

Jacksonville hits the road in week three with a trip to Texas. The 0-2 Jaguars are coming off a loss to the Arizona Cardinals. The Jags had just five wins last year, with one of those wins being against the Texans. The Texans have looked solid in their first two appearances and are still basking in the glory of a close victory over the Titans in week two. Texans QB Matt Schaub was 25-39, for 357 yards and 4 TDs against Tennessee. Look for the Texans to post up some big numbers against the Jags in this one.

Sunday, September 21 1:00 pm – San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings

Line: Minnesota -7 (Total 41)

The Vikings are 2-0 heading into their home opener against the 49ers. A better start than last season when the Vikings started 0-2 before getting their first win in week three. The Vikings rushing attack should post good numbers against a 49ers defense that is not known for its ability to stop the run. The 49ers, also 2-0, will look to running back Frank Gore for a repeat of last week’s performance in a win over the Seahawks. Gore had 207 yards on 16 carries and 2 TDs. This will be a good one, but the Vikes will come away with the win at home.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens

Line: Baltimore -13 (Total 41)

Cleveland has scored just one touchdown in their last 33 quarters, to 200 yards of offense, just 56 of that on the ground. They are still struggling with their quarterback situation and are 0-2 to start the season. The Ravens have faired well against the Browns in the past and this week’s match up should be no different. The Ravens defense will shut down the Browns pushing their touchdown draught to just one in 37 quarters. Ravens come away with an easy win at home.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – New York Giants @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Line: New York -7 (Total 44)

The 0-2 Bucs got the short straw when it came to schedules, playing Dallas, Buffalo, and the Giants in the first three weeks of the 2009 season. Despite a loss to the Bills in their last outing, the Bucs QB Brian Leftwich faired well going 26-50, 296 yards with 3 TDs, but had 2 INTs. New York should be pumped up after a come from behind win against the Cowboys last week as Eli Manning tossed for 330 yards and 2 TDs. Giants win big.

Sunday, September 27 1:00 pm – Kansas City @ Philadelphia Eagles

Line: * (Total **)

The Chiefs let one get away in week two losing a close one to the Raiders at home. They will head out on their first road trip in 2009 to take on the Eagles. Philadelphia’s heavy passing defense may be too much for the Chiefs, even with newly added weapon, quarterback Matt Cassel. The Eagles will most likely be without Donavan McNabb, but even then the Chiefs defense will need some help against the Eagles offense. Eagles win at home.

Sunday, September 27 4:05 pm – New Orleans Saints @ Buffalo Bills

Line: New Orleans -6 (Total 52)

The Bills will need to prepare for a high scoring game against the Saints, who ended the 2008 season as the highest scoring team in the League. Terrell Owens should have is way with a poor Saints secondary. The Saints are coming off a big win against the Eagles as Drew Brees was 25-34, for 311 yards, and 3 TDs. Look for the Bills to hold off the Saints at home with just a bit more defense.

Sunday, September 27 4:05 pm – Chicago Bears @ Seattle Seahawks

Line: Chicago -2 (Total 37)

The Bears improved their offense with the acquisition of QB Jay Cutler while maintaining the existing defense, and it paid off in week two with a win over the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers. The Seahawks will be coming off a loss to the 49ers on the road. Seattle has a decent record at home over the past few seasons, but the Bears will spoil that, beating Seattle in a close game.

Sunday, September 27 4:15 pm – Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals

Line: Pittsburgh -4 (Total 37)

The Bengals lost both meetings against the Steelers last year. After a 29-carry, 141-yard day against the Packers, Bengals running back Cedric Benson will be relied upon to have another big day this week when Cincinnati plays host to Pittsburgh in a key AFC North Division game. The Steelers are coming off a loss to Chicago and will be weighing in heavily on the NFL's top-rated defense from last season to show up. This one is too close to call.

Sunday, September 27 4:15 pm – Miami Dolphins @ San Diego Chargers

Line: Denver -3 (Total 38)

The Fins showed up in 2008 with their wildcat offense and surprised a few teams early on. Coming off a close loss to the Colts, the 0-2 Dolphins will look to surprise the Chargers again, as San Diego fell victim to Fins last season, 17-10 in week five at Miami. The Chargers’ Phillip Rivers, despite a loss to the Ravens in his last outing played well going 25-45, 436 yards with 2 TDs, and 2 INTs. Look for the Dolphins to exploit a weak Chargers D-line and win this one on the ground.

Sunday, September 27 4:15 pm – Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders

Line: Oakland -1 (Total 37)

The Broncos will head to Oakland with their new head coach, new offense and a 2-0 record. The Broncos will rely on running back Correll Buckhalter to energize their running game against Oakland. Burkhalter had 9 carries for 76 yards and 1 TD against the Browns last week. The Raiders lost a close one to rival San Diego to start the season and beat the Chiefs in Kansas City in week two. QB JaMarcus Russell will need to step it up. Russell has just 19 completions in 54 attempts, with no other quarterback in the NFL completing less than half his passes. Denver will take this one, edging out the Raiders in a close battle.

Sunday, September 27 8:30 pm – Indianapolis Colts @ Arizona Cardinals

Line: Arizona –1 (Total 47)

This could be the best match up of the week. Both of these teams love to pass the ball. Both teams love to give up the pass as well. The Cardinals are thriving off of last years Super bowl success and a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars in week two, where QB Kurt Warner completed his first 15 passes and was 24 of 26 overall. His completion percentage of 92.1 set an NFL record for a single game. The Colts are coming off a come-from-behind win over the Dolphins, led by QB Payton Manning who was 14-23, for 303 yards and 2 TDs. The Colts are on a quest to return to the Super bowl. This has all the makings of a high scoring contest, with the Cardinals coming out on top.

Monday, September 21 8:30 pm – Carolina Panthers @ Dallas Cowboys

Line: Dallas -9 (Total 47)

Four turnovers, including three interceptions by quarterback Tony Romo, were the difference in a 33-31 loss to the NY Giants in the inaugural game at Cowboys Stadium last week. Dallas will now face a 0-2 Panthers team that is desperately seeking their first win of the season. Dallas should be able to take advantage of a Panthers defense that has its share of holes. Carolina will need DeAngelo Williams to have a solid rushing performance if they want to beat the Cowboys. This will be a shootout with the Cowboys coming out ahead on the scoreboard in the final quarter.

NFL Week 2 Preview

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 07:42:05 PDT

Week two is always interesting as teams have that first game under their belt. Week one losers will be hungry for a win before the season gets away from them, and week one winners will be on the prowl to improve their records to 2-0. My pick for best game of the week is a tie between the Saints at the Eagles and the Giants at the Cowboys.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Flacons

Line: Atlanta -6 (Total 43)

These NFC rivals will face off in week two with Atlanta coming of a win against Miami and the Panthers losing to the Eagles. This contest will be decided on weather or not DE Julius Peppers and the rest of the Panthers defense can contain a very good Falcons offense. Look for the Falcons to get the edge early and pull of the win a t home.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions

Line: Minnesota –10 (Total 47)

The Detroit Lions have extended their losing streak to 17 with a loss to New Orleans on the road to open the 2009 season. The Vikings looked good against the Browns in their first appearance of 2009 season, and will exploit the Lions defense by controlling the running game. The Lions will have to wait to see their losing streak come to an end.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers

Line: Green Bay -9 (Total 41)

Both teams are coming off disappointing 2008 campaigns. The Packers won their home 2009 home opener against the Bears, while the Bengals lost to a less potent Denver Broncos at home, scoring just 7 points. The Bengals will need more than WR Chad Johnson if they hope to beat a solid Packers defense at home. Look for Green Bay to improve to 2-0 come Sunday.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – Houston Texans @ Tennessee Titans

Line: Tennessee -7 (Total 40)

The reigning Titans could not pull of the win against the Super Bowl Champion Steelers in their season opener, but don’t let that fool you when they face off against division rivals The Houston Texans in week two. The Texans dropped their home opener to the Jets. Both teams have a sold defense and explosive running backs. The Titans will win this one in the trenches and come away with a hard fought victory.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs

Line: Kansas City –3 (Total 39)

The Raiders came away a disappointing loss to San Diego in their home opener when the Chargers eeked out a TD with 18 seconds remaining. Kansas City fell to the Ravens on the road in week one, when after tying the game at 24 in the fourth, allowed the Ravens to score two TDs in two minutes. Raiders QB Jamarcus Russell should fair well against a young KC secondary as the Raiders rushing attack gets it done on the road to even the Raiders record 1-1.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – New England Patriots @ New York Jets

Line: New England -5 (Total 46)

The Patriots are coming off an exciting fourth quarter comeback win over the Bills that included to TD tosses by QB Tom Brady. The Jets will be looking to rookie QB Mark Sanchez to repeat last week’s performance against the Texans, throwing 18 completions for 272 yards including a TD. The Pats defense will force Sanchez into making some bad plays, while Brady dominates the Jets D with an air assault. The Pats take this one on the road, spoiling Sanchez’s rookie debut at home.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – New Orleans Saints @ Philadelphia Eagles

Line: *** (Total **)

This should be one of the better games in week two. The Saints were the highest scoring team in 2008 and showed no signs of slowing down as they put up 45 points against the Lions in week one. The Eagles however are not the Lions and will be looking to improve their record to 2-0, but will most likely have to do it without QB Donovan McNabb, who went down with an injury in week one. Look for Saints QB Drew Brees to make the big plays and upset the Eagles at home.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – St. Louis Rams @ Washington Redskins

Line: Washington -10 (Total 37)

Both teams are coming off week one losses with the Rams being blanked on the scoreboard in Seattle. The Rams will struggle against a very solid Redskins defensive line and Washington will rely heavily on Clinton Portis to get it down from them on the ground. Washington should win this one at home, improving to 1-1.

Sunday, September 20 1:00 pm – Arizona Cardinals @Jacksonville Jaguars

Line: Jacksonville -3 (Total 43)

The Redbirds are coming off a disappointing 20-16 loss in their home opener to the 49ers in week one and will be looking to get their dynamic passing attack that took them to the Super bowl in 2008, back on track for Sunday’s match up against the Jaguars. The Jags will rely on their running game to keep them in the hunt. This will be a close one with the Cards pulling it off in late in the fourth quarter.

Sunday, September 20 4:05 pm – Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Buffalo Bills

Line: Buffalo -4 (Total 42)

The Bucs will hope to go 1-1 after losing to Dallas in their home opener, when they visit the Bills on Sunday. Buffalo is coming off a 25-24 loss to the Patriots, and will be looking to take it out on the Bucs. Bills QB Trent Edwards will look to Terrell Owens to make big offensive. The Bucs will struggle offensively and will not be able to slow down the Bills air attack. Bills win this one big.

Sunday, September 20 4:15 pm – Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers

Line: San Francisco -2 (Total 40)

The Seahawks dominated the Rams in week one winning their home opener 28-0. A healthy Matt Hasselback should combine with newly acquired WR T.J Houshmandzadeh, putting on a passing clinic against a mediocre 49ers defense. San Francisco is pumped after taking a win from the Cardinals in the road in week one. They will use the running game to their advantage and try to pound this one out on the ground. This will be a good divisional match up with the 49ers getting it done at home.

Sunday, September 20 4:15 pm – Pittsburgh Steelers @ Chicago Bears

Line: Pittsburgh -3 (Total 38)

Jay Cutler and the Bears were hit hard with not only a loss to Green Bay in their season opener but the loss of Pro Bowl LB Brian Urlacher, who will be out for the remainder of the season with a dislocated wrist. They will face off against the Super bowl Champion Steelers in week two in Chicago. The Steelers defense will prove to be too much for the Bears to handle and Pittsburgh will find success running and passing the ball against a weakened Bears defense. The Steelers will have this one wrapped up at the half.

Sunday, September 20 4:15 pm – Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers

Line: San Diego -3 (Total 41)

The Ravens defense continues to dominate as they held the Chiefs to just 29 yards rushing in week one. They will now have to face the Chargers offensive running machine, LaDainian Tomlinson. San Diego QB Phillip Rivers will need to find success in the air if the Chargers are to pull of a victory at home. This will be a tight game with the Chargers coming away with the win.

Sunday, September 20 4:15 pm – Cleveland Browns @ Denver Broncos

Line: Denver -3 (Total 38)

Denver proved they could get it done post-Cutler as they edged out the Bengals on the road in week one. The Browns suffered a loss to the Vikings but will be looking to spoil Denver QB Kyle Orton’s home debut. The Broncos have a better running attack and will look to keep the ball on the ground. The game will be won in the closing minutes of the fourth with the Browns snatching a victory on the road.

Sunday, September 20 8:20 pm – New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

Line: Dallas -3 (Total 44)

This should be the game of the week. Dallas has showed no signs of slowing after their loss of T.O., and the Giants didn’t look one bit phased with the departure of WR Plaxico Burress, as both teams are coming off week one victories. It all boils down to defense in this one. The Dallas D will steps it up and Romo gets it done as the Cowboys improve to 2-0.

Monday, September 21 8:30 pm – Indianapolis Colts @ Miami Dolphins

Line: Indianapolis -3 (Total 42)

The Dolphins are coming off a loss on the road against the Falcons in week one and will be looking to even their record with a win at home. The Colts are heading into this MNF match up with a narrow 14-12 win over Jacksonville in their home opener. The Fins will have to slow down the Colts passing attack. The Colts will lead early on, but Miami will keep it close, scoring late in the final quarter to take the win.

NFL Week 1 Preview

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:25:52 PDT

Are you ready for some football? The 2009-10 NFL season kicks off on Thursday night, Sept. 10 with the defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers hosting the Tennessee Titans and ends on Sunday night when Jay Cutler makes his Chicago Bears debut at the rival Green Bay Packers.

Thursday September 10, 8:30 pm - Tennessee Titans @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Line: Pittsburgh -5 (Total 35)
The Titans and Steelers had two of the top records in the NFL last season. The Steelers return with a solid defense so look for this to be a low scoring game with last years champions wining at home.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Miami Dolphins @ Atlanta Falcons
Line: Atlanta -4 (Total 42.5)
Both Miami and Atlanta were surprise breakthrough teams n 2008, with the Dolphins finishing atop the AFC East and the Falcons winning the NFC Wild Card, but both teams lost in the first round of the playoffs. Look for the Dolphins to pull out all the stops to secure a week one win.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals
Line: Cincinnati -3 (Total 44.5)
Both the Broncos and the Benglas had a sub par year in 2008-09. Denver will be without Jay Cutler and Carson Palmer will be looking to lead the Bengals to better days. The Bengals will be looking for a victory at home to start the season.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Minnesota Vikings @ Cleveland Browns
Line: Minnesota -3 (Total 39.5)
The Vikings Adrian Peterson banged it out on the ground in 2008 for 1760 yards. The Browns had the worst defense allowing 151.9 yards per game. Peterson will lead the attack securing a win on the road for the Vikings.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Jacksonville Jaguars @Indianapolis Colts
Line: Indianapolis -7 (Total 44.5)
The Jags had their worst season of the year in 2008 while the Colts made it to the playoffs as a wild card one spot behind the Titans. Manning and company will be looking to take the top spot back in their division with an early season win at home.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints
Line: New Orleans -3 (Total 44.5)
The Lions lost 16 straight last season – looks like 17 after week one against the Saints who finished 2008 out of the playoffs but posted great offensive stats in 2009-10. Both teams struggle defensively so look for a high scoring affair.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Dallas Cowboys @Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Line: Dallas –3 (Total 41.5)
Both teams posted 9-7 records in 2008-09. Raheem Morris will be at the helm for the Buccaneers, but can he get the ship back on course? The Cowboys minus TO will look for QB Tony Romo to exploit a weaker Bucs defense and take one on the road to begin the season.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Philadelphia Eagles @ Carolina Panthers
Line: Philadelphia -1 (Total 44.5)
Both the Eagles and the Panthers showcased a great offense last season, the Panthers with their running attack and the Eagles with their air assault. Look for the Eagles to upset the Panthers in a high scoring contest.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – Kansas City Chiefs @ Baltimore Ravens
Line: Baltimore –8.5 (Total 38)
Matt Cassel will need to be on his game if the Chiefs have any chance of beating the Ravens in their house. The Ravens as always, will slam the door with their rigid defense and send the Chiefs home 0-1 to start the season.

Sunday September 13, 1:00 pm – New York Jets @ Houston Texans
Line: Houston -4 (Total 43)
The Texans were 8-8 last-year in a tough AFC South division. The Jets will look to savior Mark Sanchez to turn around their 9-7, 2008 season, but we all know that with rookie QBs come rookie mistakes. The Texans will take this one at home.

Sunday September 13, 4:00 pm – New York Giants @ Washington Redskins
Line: New York -6 (Total 39.5)
The Redskins have a new look on defense with recently acquired Brian Orakpo and Albert Haynesworth. The Giants won the NFC East in 2008 and have Eli Manning. Look for the Redskins to upset the Giants winning one at home.

2009 NFC South Season Preview and Odds

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:19:52 PDT

The NFC South will prove to be not too exciting this season. Some of the marquee games of 2009 within the division are Week 8 when the Saints host the Falcons and again in Week in 14 when these teams meet up in Atlanta. Here I breakdown the teams to exposing their strengths, weakness’ and odds to win their division.

The Atlanta Falcons +175

Coming off a strong 2008 season, the Falcons have found their franchise QB in Matt Ryan. The acquisition of TE Tony Gonzalez will give Ryan a favorite target along with WR Roddy White. White set the Falcons record for yards from receptions in a single season and has had two straight 1,000-yard years. Combined with a strong running game from RB Michael Turner, Atlanta will have a formidable offense in 2009. The defense is another story. With the loss of many key players including LB Keith Brooking and CB Domonique Foxworth, it will take a year for a new defensive squad to gel. The Falcons will again be strong in 2009 finishing at 10-6.

The Carolina Panthers +220

The Panthers will keep the same formula they have had with a talented backfield and strong defense. QB Jake Delhomme will continue to struggle with his inability to make the plays necessary to win games. The Panthers receiving core will look the same with a resigned Mushin Muhammad and a returning Steve Smith. Carolina has two talented RBs in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart, allowing the Panthers to still move the ball effectively. The defense is solid and DE Julius Peppers will be a Pro Bowler in 2009. The secondary is led by play of Chris Gamble who has produced well for the Panthers since being drafted 5 years ago. Carolina will finish the season with a record of 8-8.

The New Orleans Saints +165

The Saints led the league in scoring a season ago and will once again have a dynamic offense, with the best chance at winning the NFC South. Veteran QB Drew Brees is coming off a remarkable season in which he threw for over 5,000 yards. The Saints will once again have an explosive air assault with Jeremy Shockey, Marques Colston, and Devery Henderson as targets for Brees. RB Reggie Bush will have a big impact, both running and catching the ball. The Saints have bolstered their defense with off-season acquisitions at nearly every position. Middle linebacker Jonathon Vilma showed the team thanks for giving him a nice five-year deal by getting 151 tackles and forcing two turnovers in 2008. LB Scott Fujita will return on the strong side and veteran Dan Morgan is looking for one more chance to show he can still play in the NFL. The Saints have all the ingredients to win the division with an 11-5 record.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers +700

Starting with the firing of head coach Jon Gruden, after seven years with the organization, the Bucs are undergoing franchise reorganization. A trio of backs will be the Bucs biggest strength. RBs Earnest Graham, Cadillac Williams, and free agent acquisition Derrick Ward will all see some action this season. The defense is young but has some very good potential players in RE Gaines Adams and veteran leaders LB Derrick Brooks and CB Ronde Barber. QBs Byron Leftwich and Josh Freeman will battle it out, and we will probably see Leftwich get the starting position due to his experience, with Freeman taking over at some point mid-season. New head coach Raheem Morris will have to be patient and wait at least a year to find success in the Sunshine State. The Bucs will finish the season at a disappointing 5-11.

Matt Martz is a freelance writer located in Central California. Blessed is the gambler who expects nothing, for ye shall not be disappointed.