To start, an apology. I blew it last week, didn't get picks up before heading up to ND. What can I say, I can give excuses like class, or my clinic case getting busy, but let's be serious, you will think I'm a failure anyway, so let's leave it at that. The Scoreboard has been updated w/ the week 6 results over on the right side. Also, NBA starts up this week. Spurs led it off with a curbstomp of the Hornets last night, and tonight they have the Bulls. Spurs issues with back to backs are well noted, but I like this matchup tonight as well. I'll have a post up on my thoughts on the Spurs and NBA as a whole at some point next week, but I want this marked down right now. DeJuan Blair is your Rookie of the Year. The dude's is an absolute freak and a black hole on the boards. Now, onto the picks
Georgia @ #1 Florida (-14.5) (Game in Jacksonville)
Pick: UGA +14.5
Ah the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, this game is on my bucket list of matchups to hit up at some point in my life. But what about this year? To start, the fact that Tebow is still in contention for the Heisman absolutely blows my mind. I mean, look at these numbers: 84 of 132, 1159 yds 8 TDs 4INTs, 466 rushing yards, 6 rushing TDs...really, that's a Heisman contender? Either way, the Florida D has been fantastic all year long, but there are some issues on O, even though they've gotten by unscathed to this point. The last few weeks have been close calls for the Gators, I think this will be another one. Richt tends to do some damage in this game when you least expect it, I think we'll see it again this year. Gators probably take this one again, but I'm guessing by 7 or less.
#3 Texas (-9) @ #14 Oklahoma St.
Pick: Texas -9
Oh what this game could've been. Without Dez Bryant, I just don't think that Okie St has the firepower to keep up with the Horns. Texas finally got their offense back on track, and the Cowboys aren't exactly known for being defensive stoppers. I think UT just has the Cowboys beat at every side of the matchup and could see this being a pretty high scoring game.
#5 USC (-3) @ #10 Oregon
Pick: USC -3
Man, I want to pick Oregon here, I really wanna take Oregon. USC the last couple weeks has had some real close calls, their D has gotten shredded lately, and the Ducks can put up points. The problem with USC is they have been sneaking by each week, and I think there is just too much talent on that team for Oregon. They'v already had their mystery Pac 10 loss, and as much as I want to pick the Ducks, I gotta go with the smart pick to try and save my brutal record.
#22 S. Carolina @ Tennessee (-6)
Pick: UT -6
Not gonna lie, when I saw this matchup I was thinkin I got my upset special now, I'm gonna get a nice line to play with, this will be great. Freakin Vegas, always inside of my soul, have UT as a 6 point favorite. No matter, I don't trust the OBC this year, especially having to go to Neyland. Plus, Kiffin is all pumped up cause Weezy name-checked him, that's gotta be worth at least 3 points.
Washington St. @ #25 Notre Dame (-27.5)
Pick: ND -27.5
So ND, a team that since week 1 has had every game come down to the last drive, finds itself back in the top 25 as a 4 TD favorite. Why would I possibly pick the Cardiac Catholics to cover 28? Well, in part, I'm a huge homer. The other reason? Wazzu is terrible, 1-6 on the year, and they give up points by the boatload. Not only that, but ND's offense was not fantastic last week, and they will be looking to come back strong and put up points. Look for Golden Tate to have yet another 100+yard game and Clausen go for probably over 400yds. Hopefully I'll be able to sit back and enjoy an Irish game as opposed to wondering if my blood pressure is higher than the attendance at the stadium.
So there they are kids, go to work.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Week 7 College Football Picks
Sorry I didn't get a results post up this week. It's a combo of lawyering, bloodlust for Southern Cal consuming me, and not being good at blogging. My bad, the scoreboard will be updated shortly so you can see where you stand. You may also note that there will be a bit of a shakeup. I'm pushing scores that only have 2 weeks or less worth of picks to the bottom, cause it throws things off, just roll with it. If you are one of those people, come back, make picks, and you will be returned to where your win % dictates. After a largely pedestrian slate last week, this week is an absolutely stacked slate, w/ plenty of heated rivalry fun. Let's do the damn thing:
Arkansas @ #1 Florida (-24.5)
Pick: Arkansas +24.5
I think we all agree that Florida is the better team here: consensus #1, the Messiah Rhinoceros at QB, quarkbacks running 4.0s everywhere, Brandon Spikes ready to murder at any point, the whole 9. But Arkansas brings one of the top offenses in the country to Gainsville this weekend. Ryan Mallet, along with being able to throw a full keg through the goalposts from the 50 on one knee (just ask any Michigan fan), has shown that he has a full handle on the offense, coming in just under 1500yds on the year with a 13:3 TD to pick ratio. Not too shabby. Granted, Florida has only given up 32 points all year, but I think Arkansas will put some points up and at least keep this within 3 TDs.
#4 Virginia Tech(-3) @ #19 Georgia Tech
Pick: GT +3
This is one of my big upset picks for the week (I bet you can't guess the other one w/o scrolling down). VT is wayyyy to high up at #4 IMO. They should've lost to Nebraska, and while they did beat Miami convincingly, I think the conditions did more to shut down Jacory Harris than the Hokies did. I'm still not convinced Tyrod Taylor is any good, and Beamerball may work against regular offenses, but what about the sexy triple option? I don't think so. Plus we all know that isn't really a graft on Beamer, it's an allergic reaction, from a sting, from BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEES! (meme via EDSBS).
#22 South Carolina @ #2 Alabama (-17)
Pick: Bama -17
I probably would've taken Bama up to 27. Alabama in my mind SHOULD be the #1 team in all the land. They have played and killed some solid teams this year, have a ridiculously good D, and are also putting up points in bunches. The Gamecocks jaunt in the top 25 comes to an end this week, Nick Saban; Roll Tide.
#20 Oklahoma "@" #3 Texas (-3.5) (Neutral site game, Cotton Bowl, Dallas)
Pick: Texas -3.5
Oh what this game could have been if Sam Bradford didn't get broken like bigamy laws by the Mormons. While it's not the battle of unbeatens, Heisman frontrunner on the line battle we all thought it would be in the preseason, don't let OU's 2 losses make you think this isn't a huge game. The anger of UT fans about OU getting the Big XII Title and Nat'l Title shot, even after losing to the Horns by 10, has yet to subside. Throw in some good old fashioned Hatfield-McCoy style hate, a returning Bradford, and a decimated UT RB core, and you've got yourself a ballgame kids. I think the Horns have too much talent on O for the Sooners to keep up, mainly behind Sooner-killer Jordan Shipley. As an added bonus for those without a dog in the fight, this being the early game, here's a drinking game to catch you up with those at the State Fair:
#6USC (-10) @ #25 Notre Dame
Pick: ND +10
It has to be done this year. This is the best shot ND has had since 05 to beat the hated Trojans. Southern Cal is bringing true frosh Matt Barkley as their starting QB. Barkley has been a servicable QB, mostly protected by a strong run game and a conservative play call(to date: 58.9 completion %, 958 yds, 3TD, 2INT). The main story of this game will be the ND offense, primarily the 8th ranked passing attack under Jimmy Clausen, against the absurdly good D of USC this year, who has only allowed 43 points in their 5 games so far. We've all seen the dominant stats of the last two years. ND hasn't even scored a TD on the Trojans since the 06 matchup. A lot of the problem has been the Irish O-line, which left a young Clausen open to lots of punishment from whatever world class LB USC was touting that year. While SC lost a lot of talent on D this year, Taylor Mays, who may be the best D player in the country, has led an absurdly talented unit this year. This is a game of huge importance. USC needs a big win here to keep themselves in the title conversation on the weekend we will see the first BCS standings. What it means for Notre Dame though is so much more. The program is coming off 2 of the worst seasons in a long and storied history. It's been 7 years since the Irish have gotten a W over the Trojans (technically...), and the last 2 efforts have been inexcusably pathetic. Charlie Weis was given another shot, even tho many were ready to go pitchfork/torch mob after last year's SC game. If ND wants to show it still belongs in the minds of football, they have to show up this weekend and play their best game possible. Weis knows how important this game is, anywhere from 12 to 16 four and five star recruits will be guests of the Irish this weekend. A win here will likely lead to another top 5 recruiting class, and puts ND in the drivers seat for a BCS bid. But a loss...especially a blowout...well, I wont even talk about what it will mean, because it wont be pretty. Reports keep coming out that the ND players have more confidence in this game than any Weis team has ever had going into this game. They've got the offensive firepower to score at will, and see a true frosh lined up on the other side at the most important position on the field. Everything is lining up to give the Irish their best shot at a win. There's no such thing as a moral victory, BEAT SC!!
So there you have it kids, a full slate with some great matchups, do your dirty work in the comments. FUSC, never forget
Arkansas @ #1 Florida (-24.5)
Pick: Arkansas +24.5
I think we all agree that Florida is the better team here: consensus #1, the Messiah Rhinoceros at QB, quarkbacks running 4.0s everywhere, Brandon Spikes ready to murder at any point, the whole 9. But Arkansas brings one of the top offenses in the country to Gainsville this weekend. Ryan Mallet, along with being able to throw a full keg through the goalposts from the 50 on one knee (just ask any Michigan fan), has shown that he has a full handle on the offense, coming in just under 1500yds on the year with a 13:3 TD to pick ratio. Not too shabby. Granted, Florida has only given up 32 points all year, but I think Arkansas will put some points up and at least keep this within 3 TDs.
#4 Virginia Tech(-3) @ #19 Georgia Tech
Pick: GT +3
This is one of my big upset picks for the week (I bet you can't guess the other one w/o scrolling down). VT is wayyyy to high up at #4 IMO. They should've lost to Nebraska, and while they did beat Miami convincingly, I think the conditions did more to shut down Jacory Harris than the Hokies did. I'm still not convinced Tyrod Taylor is any good, and Beamerball may work against regular offenses, but what about the sexy triple option? I don't think so. Plus we all know that isn't really a graft on Beamer, it's an allergic reaction, from a sting, from BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEES! (meme via EDSBS).
#22 South Carolina @ #2 Alabama (-17)
Pick: Bama -17
I probably would've taken Bama up to 27. Alabama in my mind SHOULD be the #1 team in all the land. They have played and killed some solid teams this year, have a ridiculously good D, and are also putting up points in bunches. The Gamecocks jaunt in the top 25 comes to an end this week, Nick Saban; Roll Tide.
#20 Oklahoma "@" #3 Texas (-3.5) (Neutral site game, Cotton Bowl, Dallas)
Pick: Texas -3.5
Oh what this game could have been if Sam Bradford didn't get broken like bigamy laws by the Mormons. While it's not the battle of unbeatens, Heisman frontrunner on the line battle we all thought it would be in the preseason, don't let OU's 2 losses make you think this isn't a huge game. The anger of UT fans about OU getting the Big XII Title and Nat'l Title shot, even after losing to the Horns by 10, has yet to subside. Throw in some good old fashioned Hatfield-McCoy style hate, a returning Bradford, and a decimated UT RB core, and you've got yourself a ballgame kids. I think the Horns have too much talent on O for the Sooners to keep up, mainly behind Sooner-killer Jordan Shipley. As an added bonus for those without a dog in the fight, this being the early game, here's a drinking game to catch you up with those at the State Fair:
- Drink every time it's mentioned Shipley and McCoy are roomates/BFFs
- Drink every time it's mentioned that Shipley and McCoy's dad's were roomates/teammates at Abilene Christian
- Drink every time you see a sign that says 45-35
- Drink every time they bring up how much Bradford and McCoy respect/admire each other
- Drink for every Heisman mention
- Divide in 2, half the people drink every time you hear Boomer Sooner, half drink twice every time you hear Texas Fight(have to make up the difference in times, just trust me, OU knows maybe 2 songs)
- Drink every time Tebow gets inexplicably brought up (o/u is 6.5)
#6USC (-10) @ #25 Notre Dame
Pick: ND +10
It has to be done this year. This is the best shot ND has had since 05 to beat the hated Trojans. Southern Cal is bringing true frosh Matt Barkley as their starting QB. Barkley has been a servicable QB, mostly protected by a strong run game and a conservative play call(to date: 58.9 completion %, 958 yds, 3TD, 2INT). The main story of this game will be the ND offense, primarily the 8th ranked passing attack under Jimmy Clausen, against the absurdly good D of USC this year, who has only allowed 43 points in their 5 games so far. We've all seen the dominant stats of the last two years. ND hasn't even scored a TD on the Trojans since the 06 matchup. A lot of the problem has been the Irish O-line, which left a young Clausen open to lots of punishment from whatever world class LB USC was touting that year. While SC lost a lot of talent on D this year, Taylor Mays, who may be the best D player in the country, has led an absurdly talented unit this year. This is a game of huge importance. USC needs a big win here to keep themselves in the title conversation on the weekend we will see the first BCS standings. What it means for Notre Dame though is so much more. The program is coming off 2 of the worst seasons in a long and storied history. It's been 7 years since the Irish have gotten a W over the Trojans (technically...), and the last 2 efforts have been inexcusably pathetic. Charlie Weis was given another shot, even tho many were ready to go pitchfork/torch mob after last year's SC game. If ND wants to show it still belongs in the minds of football, they have to show up this weekend and play their best game possible. Weis knows how important this game is, anywhere from 12 to 16 four and five star recruits will be guests of the Irish this weekend. A win here will likely lead to another top 5 recruiting class, and puts ND in the drivers seat for a BCS bid. But a loss...especially a blowout...well, I wont even talk about what it will mean, because it wont be pretty. Reports keep coming out that the ND players have more confidence in this game than any Weis team has ever had going into this game. They've got the offensive firepower to score at will, and see a true frosh lined up on the other side at the most important position on the field. Everything is lining up to give the Irish their best shot at a win. There's no such thing as a moral victory, BEAT SC!!
So there you have it kids, a full slate with some great matchups, do your dirty work in the comments. FUSC, never forget
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Week 6 picks
Alright kids, I'm hoping that this week, without the benefit(detriment) of a homeriffic anchor, I can turn things around and drop a sexy 5-0 on you kids. Let's jump right in and pick some games.
#1 Florida (-7.5) @ #4 LSU (note, this line came from sportsbook as centsports doesn't have it up yet)
Pick: LSU +7.5
As of right now, there are too many questions surround Florida and the QB position. In all honesty, Tebow probably shouldn't play after that nassssssty concussion inducing pinball shot he took between the untouched blitz and his lineman's knee. HOWEVAH, it's more likely that the decision will be left in Tebow's hands. The dude is a flat out gamer and there is maybe a snowball's chance in hell of him sitting out against a top 5 rival if he gets to make the call. Even if he doesn't play, the backup Brantley is a hell of a QB. Originally he had committed to Texas, but seeing the writing on the wall, decided he'd rather be a Gator. Brantley comes in with a good pedigree and a plethora of state HS records. While he isn't a human/rhino hybrid, he can get the job done. All that being said, Les Miles is having one of those years where all of his insanely ballsy play calls work. The talent level on this team is very high, especially at RB. Throw in the fact that this game is being played at Death Valley, I think more than a TD is too much to cover. Tigah bait tigah bait tigah bait.
#3 Alabama (-5.5) @ #20 Ole Miss
Pick: Bama -5.5
So many SEC home dogs, so little time apparently. This matchup would've been much more exciting had the Rebs not been exposed a few weeks back. I don't think Ole Miss has a shot in this ballgame. Saban's D is absurdly talented and they will just grind you into a pulp. My only fear is that Bama grinds this game down so much they don't cover the 5.5. That being said, Nick Saban, Roll Tide.
Michigan @ #12 Iowa (-8)
Pick: Michigan +8
Yes, Michigan grossly trapped me last week. It wasn't even a good one, it looked like something Wily Coyote would've set up with poorly painted signs and Acme bombs easily visible. Yet I happily skipped right into the middle of the trap and got clowned. Sloppy conditions slowed Michigan's new lifeblood in Tate Forcier, yet they still damn near pulled it off. As for Iowa, they are good, they could very well win this, and probably should. But they don't beat people by 8 points. If it's 3-2, they are happy. 8 is WAYYYY too much. Points me.
Colorado @ #2 Texas (-32)
Pick: Texas -32
We haven't had a huge crazy line in awhile it feels like, so why not. This would typically seem like too many points for a conference game, but Colorado is flat out miserable at football. This may be Big XII football, but they look more like they are playing intramurals. Texas knows how to put up points and should give Colt a nice little boost for his Heisman campaign in this one.
#13 Oregon (-3.5) @ UCLA (Again from sportsbook)
Pick: UCLA +3.5
With LaGarrette Blount still suspended for the time being, the Ducks offense now rests firmly on the shoulders of QB Jeremiah Masoli. However, we don't know how healthy Masoli is. From what I've seen in reports and on Twitter (if you are on there hit me up @NDEddieMac), the Ducks want to limit Masoli, using him only if necessary. So missing the top 2 players from the offense, and on the road, there is way too much going against the Fighting Nikes for me this week.
Are you ready to jump on board the comeback train kids? Do your dirty work in the comments. Also, just as a heads up, you have to pick the lines I picked against. Sure, lines change, but this is the only way to keep everyone on an even playing field. Go get em
#1 Florida (-7.5) @ #4 LSU (note, this line came from sportsbook as centsports doesn't have it up yet)
Pick: LSU +7.5
As of right now, there are too many questions surround Florida and the QB position. In all honesty, Tebow probably shouldn't play after that nassssssty concussion inducing pinball shot he took between the untouched blitz and his lineman's knee. HOWEVAH, it's more likely that the decision will be left in Tebow's hands. The dude is a flat out gamer and there is maybe a snowball's chance in hell of him sitting out against a top 5 rival if he gets to make the call. Even if he doesn't play, the backup Brantley is a hell of a QB. Originally he had committed to Texas, but seeing the writing on the wall, decided he'd rather be a Gator. Brantley comes in with a good pedigree and a plethora of state HS records. While he isn't a human/rhino hybrid, he can get the job done. All that being said, Les Miles is having one of those years where all of his insanely ballsy play calls work. The talent level on this team is very high, especially at RB. Throw in the fact that this game is being played at Death Valley, I think more than a TD is too much to cover. Tigah bait tigah bait tigah bait.
#3 Alabama (-5.5) @ #20 Ole Miss
Pick: Bama -5.5
So many SEC home dogs, so little time apparently. This matchup would've been much more exciting had the Rebs not been exposed a few weeks back. I don't think Ole Miss has a shot in this ballgame. Saban's D is absurdly talented and they will just grind you into a pulp. My only fear is that Bama grinds this game down so much they don't cover the 5.5. That being said, Nick Saban, Roll Tide.
Michigan @ #12 Iowa (-8)
Pick: Michigan +8
Yes, Michigan grossly trapped me last week. It wasn't even a good one, it looked like something Wily Coyote would've set up with poorly painted signs and Acme bombs easily visible. Yet I happily skipped right into the middle of the trap and got clowned. Sloppy conditions slowed Michigan's new lifeblood in Tate Forcier, yet they still damn near pulled it off. As for Iowa, they are good, they could very well win this, and probably should. But they don't beat people by 8 points. If it's 3-2, they are happy. 8 is WAYYYY too much. Points me.
Colorado @ #2 Texas (-32)
Pick: Texas -32
We haven't had a huge crazy line in awhile it feels like, so why not. This would typically seem like too many points for a conference game, but Colorado is flat out miserable at football. This may be Big XII football, but they look more like they are playing intramurals. Texas knows how to put up points and should give Colt a nice little boost for his Heisman campaign in this one.
#13 Oregon (-3.5) @ UCLA (Again from sportsbook)
Pick: UCLA +3.5
With LaGarrette Blount still suspended for the time being, the Ducks offense now rests firmly on the shoulders of QB Jeremiah Masoli. However, we don't know how healthy Masoli is. From what I've seen in reports and on Twitter (if you are on there hit me up @NDEddieMac), the Ducks want to limit Masoli, using him only if necessary. So missing the top 2 players from the offense, and on the road, there is way too much going against the Fighting Nikes for me this week.
Are you ready to jump on board the comeback train kids? Do your dirty work in the comments. Also, just as a heads up, you have to pick the lines I picked against. Sure, lines change, but this is the only way to keep everyone on an even playing field. Go get em
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
MLB season prediction results and playoff predictions
Well, baseball has come and gone, the playoffs start today (in the interest of full disclosure, the 1st game will start before this post is finished, if you don't like it, deal kiddies. As some of you may recall, at the beginning of the year I made a series of predictions(seen here), so before I get to my playoff predictions, let's see how I did in the regular season.
AL West:
Predicted: Angels
Result: Angels
AL Central:
Predicted: Cleveland (Grady Sizemore is the new Chris Paul causing me to think a team will be good because of one player, altho he sucked hard, oops)
Result: Twins, after 163 games including a ridiculous one game playoff against the Tigers last night.
AL East:
Predicted: Yankees
Result: Yankees
AL WC:
Predicted: Boston
Result: Boston
Hey, 3 outta 4 aint bad.
How about the NL:
NL West:
Predicted: Dodgers
Result: Dodgers
NL Central:
Predicted: Cubs (why the hell did I pick the Cubs?!? Past Eddie is stupid)
Result: Cards
NL East
Predicted: Mets (oops)
Result:Phillies
Wild Card
Predicted: Braves (so close)
Result:Rockies
Ouch, ironically I nailed the AL much better than the NL, never would've expected that. With half of the teams right, well, I'm just not that good. So why not try for some double or nothing to predict the playoffs?
AL
Red Sox(95-67) vs Angels(97-65):
Prediction: Angels in 5.
These two have had some great series over the past few seasons. This year, I think the Angels have too much for the Red Sox to handle. Lackey and Weaver give the Angels a better 1-2 than Beckett-? that the Sox will try to answer with. Ortiz has had all kinds of problems this year, and even the once mighty bullpen has seen its share of problems this year. Add in the sappy storyline for the Angels, and there you've got your pick.
Yankees (103-59) vs Twins (87-76)
Prediction: Yankees in 4.
The Twins didn't know they were in the playoffs until last night, yet right after clinching the Central and a quick champagne shower, they had to get on a plane for the Bronx as the series begins tonight. Talent alone makes one think the Yanks will roll in this series. Combine the rest difference and the potential for an emotional let down in Minnesota, and things look great for the Yankees. The only thing that gives me pause in picking a sweep is Sabathia's past playoff pitching woes, and of course the hilarity that is A-Rod in October. Nothing says these trends continue, but I think the Twins are good enough to steal one.
NL:
Rockies(92-70) vs Phillies (93-69)
Prediction: Phillies in 5
I think this one is gonna take the full 5. The Rockies have been playing lights out ball the last few weeks, and if there is nothing we've learned from baseball in the past, it's that a team that gets hot at the right time is veryyyyy dangerous. HOWEVAH, Phili just has too much firepower. Whether it be on the mound with Lee and Hamels, or at the plate with Utley and Howard. The main fear for Phili fans is what this time last year was their biggest strength: The backend of their bullpen. Lidge is looking more like Post-Pujols-Stress-Disorder Lidge than World Series winning perfect record Lidge. Something's gotta give.
Cardinals (91-71) vs Dodgers (95-67)
Prediction: Cards in 4
It's a shame these 2 are meeting in the NLDS, as a 7 game series would've been a lot of fun. Unlike the Rockies who are coming into the playoffs hot, the Dodgers are coming in playing ugly ball. Not only that, but Manny hasn't really been Manny in the 2nd half. Meanwhile, on the other side you've got Albert Pujols, who is so clearly the best player in the game it's not even funny. Cards take this one behind good starting pitching and big #5.
So that gives us an ALCS of Angels and Yankees and an NLCS of Cards-Phils. Let's say craziness happens and I get these right, I'm thinking you end up with a St. Louis - New York world series. This would be a great series, both for fans getting to see arguably the 2 most historic franchises, and the networks getting one of their crown jewels. Should we get there, I'm giving this one to the Cards in 6. What do you all think, go as deep as you want prediction wise in the comments, and enjoy the postseason kids. If last night's play-in was any indication of what's to come, it's gonna be a hell of a ride.
AL West:
Predicted: Angels
Result: Angels
AL Central:
Predicted: Cleveland (Grady Sizemore is the new Chris Paul causing me to think a team will be good because of one player, altho he sucked hard, oops)
Result: Twins, after 163 games including a ridiculous one game playoff against the Tigers last night.
AL East:
Predicted: Yankees
Result: Yankees
AL WC:
Predicted: Boston
Result: Boston
Hey, 3 outta 4 aint bad.
How about the NL:
NL West:
Predicted: Dodgers
Result: Dodgers
NL Central:
Predicted: Cubs (why the hell did I pick the Cubs?!? Past Eddie is stupid)
Result: Cards
NL East
Predicted: Mets (oops)
Result:Phillies
Wild Card
Predicted: Braves (so close)
Result:Rockies
Ouch, ironically I nailed the AL much better than the NL, never would've expected that. With half of the teams right, well, I'm just not that good. So why not try for some double or nothing to predict the playoffs?
AL
Red Sox(95-67) vs Angels(97-65):
Prediction: Angels in 5.
These two have had some great series over the past few seasons. This year, I think the Angels have too much for the Red Sox to handle. Lackey and Weaver give the Angels a better 1-2 than Beckett-? that the Sox will try to answer with. Ortiz has had all kinds of problems this year, and even the once mighty bullpen has seen its share of problems this year. Add in the sappy storyline for the Angels, and there you've got your pick.
Yankees (103-59) vs Twins (87-76)
Prediction: Yankees in 4.
The Twins didn't know they were in the playoffs until last night, yet right after clinching the Central and a quick champagne shower, they had to get on a plane for the Bronx as the series begins tonight. Talent alone makes one think the Yanks will roll in this series. Combine the rest difference and the potential for an emotional let down in Minnesota, and things look great for the Yankees. The only thing that gives me pause in picking a sweep is Sabathia's past playoff pitching woes, and of course the hilarity that is A-Rod in October. Nothing says these trends continue, but I think the Twins are good enough to steal one.
NL:
Rockies(92-70) vs Phillies (93-69)
Prediction: Phillies in 5
I think this one is gonna take the full 5. The Rockies have been playing lights out ball the last few weeks, and if there is nothing we've learned from baseball in the past, it's that a team that gets hot at the right time is veryyyyy dangerous. HOWEVAH, Phili just has too much firepower. Whether it be on the mound with Lee and Hamels, or at the plate with Utley and Howard. The main fear for Phili fans is what this time last year was their biggest strength: The backend of their bullpen. Lidge is looking more like Post-Pujols-Stress-Disorder Lidge than World Series winning perfect record Lidge. Something's gotta give.
Cardinals (91-71) vs Dodgers (95-67)
Prediction: Cards in 4
It's a shame these 2 are meeting in the NLDS, as a 7 game series would've been a lot of fun. Unlike the Rockies who are coming into the playoffs hot, the Dodgers are coming in playing ugly ball. Not only that, but Manny hasn't really been Manny in the 2nd half. Meanwhile, on the other side you've got Albert Pujols, who is so clearly the best player in the game it's not even funny. Cards take this one behind good starting pitching and big #5.
So that gives us an ALCS of Angels and Yankees and an NLCS of Cards-Phils. Let's say craziness happens and I get these right, I'm thinking you end up with a St. Louis - New York world series. This would be a great series, both for fans getting to see arguably the 2 most historic franchises, and the networks getting one of their crown jewels. Should we get there, I'm giving this one to the Cards in 6. What do you all think, go as deep as you want prediction wise in the comments, and enjoy the postseason kids. If last night's play-in was any indication of what's to come, it's gonna be a hell of a ride.
Week 5 College Football pick recap
Well, I stay in the red, but I did it knowingly on two games. Hopefully you all took my advice and stayed away from my picks. Let's get to it:
#4 LSU @ #18 Georgia (-3)
Pick: LSU +3
Result: 20-13 LSU: W
This was a ugly, terrible, sloppy game for about 3.5 quarters. The end however was fannnnntastic. There are a couple of things that really jumped out in this game. 1st AJ Green is pretty much an alien cyborg from the future. Coming off a performance when he had huge catches and a rowdy FG block, AJ continued to get the job done with this amazing catch for a TD when UGA needed it most, putting the Bulldogs on top with 1:09 left.
This video brings me to my 2nd point. STOP CALLING BULLSHIT EXCESSIVE CELEBRATION PENALTIES. I'll fully admit that I love celebrations post TD. Guys like Ochocinco just make me happy. It is hard to score a TD, why not let them celebrate. Sure, you can easily go too far, and I understand why the rule is there. But what in that video deserved a 15 yard flag?!?? The SEC has since issued a mea culpa admitting that the flag shouldn't have been thrown, but it was. If a guy scores a huge TD like that to put his team in a position to upset a top 5 rival with just over a minute left in the game, he should be given some leeway. Especially when he didn't do anything!!
All that being said, that flag isn't why UGA lost. It was a terrible call and certainly hurt, but it didn't allow the big KR, and it certainly didn't miss all of these tackles:
S-E-C speed.
#7 USC (-5) @ #24 Cal
Pick: Cal +5
Result: 30-3 USC: L
Well, the Tedford collapse is officially on. This one was just a boat race from the get go. SC pretty much dominated this game from the opening whistle. Not only did they effectively move the ball, they held Javhid Best to a mere 47 yards, while Joe McKnight had a stellar 2 TD, 117 yd performance. Just a beatdown.
#8 Oklahoma (-7.5) @ #17 Miami
Pick: Miami +7.5
Result 21-20 Miami: W
Jacory Harris works when it isn't raining. While OU started this game with a pair of interceptions and a QUICK TD drive, Miami took over in the 2nd half with Harris following his early 2 picks with 3 TDs. Reports are that Bradford will try to start this Saturday to get a game under his belt before the annual showdown with Texas. The mustachioed one has played admirably in his stead, as Jones was in "game manager" mode, throwing for 188 yds and a TD on 18 of 30 passing. Not great, but not losing the game either.
#22 Michigan @ Michigan St (-3)
Pick: Mich +3
Result: 26-20 MSU (OT): L
I'm just going to quote myself from the pick page:
"I really don't get this line at all. Clearly this means MSU will win by 10 and you will all lose if you go with me, but I don't care. I know I'm walking into a trap and I'm doing it while whistling Dixie. This looks like a freaking blank check to me."
That's me, just hanging out under the red cage watching the game, not a care in the world...Stupid trap game.
Washington @ Notre Dame (-13)
Pick: ND -13
Result: 37-30 ND (OT): L
This game was so infuriating to watch. The inability of the Irish offense to score once the got in the red zone was absolutely pathetic. 30 points (in regulation) seems like a nice day...but when you have 500 FREAKING YARDS OF OFFENSE IN REGULATION HOW DO YOU NOT SCORE MORE TDS?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!? Clausen showed that there were no real lingering issues with his toe, coming out with a career day throwing for 422 yards on 23 of 31 passing, w/ 2TDs and a INT courtesy of a ball that went right through the hands of Armando Allen. Golden Tate continued to step up in the Post-Cannon era, torching UW for 244 yards, including a couple of LONG dominant catches
Golden just refuses to let the offense die if he can help it. Also, he can fly apparently:
Dude can do it all. I will fully admit to being terrified until he got up. The thought of an offense sans Floyd and Tate is not a world I want to live in. The craziest part of this game though was the double goalline stand by the Irish thanks to a roughing the snapper call after the 1st half of the stand on a FG attempt (I know, what?). I'll let the vid tell the story, a bit long, but way manly:
The takeaway is a win is a win. ND needs to step up their secondary play and RZ offense if they expect to put up a fight against USC in 2 weeks.
Result this week: 2-3
Result to date: 9-16 (.360)
Well, the winning % went up. When it goes up after a 2-3 week, you know you are bad. How'd you kids do?
Ryan:
Results this week: 2-3
Results to date: 8-17(.320)
Johnny Chan:
Results this week:2-3
Results to date: 7-18 (.280)
Kristin:
Results this week: 2-3 (yayyyyy you did it)
Results to date:2-14 (.125)
Judson:
Results this week: 4-1
Results to date:14-11 (.560)
Travis:
Results this week:3-2
Results to date:4-11 (.267)
Daniel:
Results this week: 3-2
Results to date:4-6 (.400)
Donnie B:
Results this week: 3-2
Results to date:7-13 (.350)
The Senator:
Results this week: 0-2
Results to date:0-2 (Why only pick 2 games mystery The Senator? And why make up your own lines? Come on now)
Matt:
Results this week: 3-2
Results to date: 9-14 (.360)
Better than it's been the last two weeks, we are slowly moving the right direction. Tune in next time, same bat time (tomorrow around 3ish prob) same bat channel (umm..this one).
#4 LSU @ #18 Georgia (-3)
Pick: LSU +3
Result: 20-13 LSU: W
This was a ugly, terrible, sloppy game for about 3.5 quarters. The end however was fannnnntastic. There are a couple of things that really jumped out in this game. 1st AJ Green is pretty much an alien cyborg from the future. Coming off a performance when he had huge catches and a rowdy FG block, AJ continued to get the job done with this amazing catch for a TD when UGA needed it most, putting the Bulldogs on top with 1:09 left.
This video brings me to my 2nd point. STOP CALLING BULLSHIT EXCESSIVE CELEBRATION PENALTIES. I'll fully admit that I love celebrations post TD. Guys like Ochocinco just make me happy. It is hard to score a TD, why not let them celebrate. Sure, you can easily go too far, and I understand why the rule is there. But what in that video deserved a 15 yard flag?!?? The SEC has since issued a mea culpa admitting that the flag shouldn't have been thrown, but it was. If a guy scores a huge TD like that to put his team in a position to upset a top 5 rival with just over a minute left in the game, he should be given some leeway. Especially when he didn't do anything!!
All that being said, that flag isn't why UGA lost. It was a terrible call and certainly hurt, but it didn't allow the big KR, and it certainly didn't miss all of these tackles:
S-E-C speed.
#7 USC (-5) @ #24 Cal
Pick: Cal +5
Result: 30-3 USC: L
Well, the Tedford collapse is officially on. This one was just a boat race from the get go. SC pretty much dominated this game from the opening whistle. Not only did they effectively move the ball, they held Javhid Best to a mere 47 yards, while Joe McKnight had a stellar 2 TD, 117 yd performance. Just a beatdown.
#8 Oklahoma (-7.5) @ #17 Miami
Pick: Miami +7.5
Result 21-20 Miami: W
Jacory Harris works when it isn't raining. While OU started this game with a pair of interceptions and a QUICK TD drive, Miami took over in the 2nd half with Harris following his early 2 picks with 3 TDs. Reports are that Bradford will try to start this Saturday to get a game under his belt before the annual showdown with Texas. The mustachioed one has played admirably in his stead, as Jones was in "game manager" mode, throwing for 188 yds and a TD on 18 of 30 passing. Not great, but not losing the game either.
#22 Michigan @ Michigan St (-3)
Pick: Mich +3
Result: 26-20 MSU (OT): L
I'm just going to quote myself from the pick page:
"I really don't get this line at all. Clearly this means MSU will win by 10 and you will all lose if you go with me, but I don't care. I know I'm walking into a trap and I'm doing it while whistling Dixie. This looks like a freaking blank check to me."
That's me, just hanging out under the red cage watching the game, not a care in the world...Stupid trap game.
Washington @ Notre Dame (-13)
Pick: ND -13
Result: 37-30 ND (OT): L
This game was so infuriating to watch. The inability of the Irish offense to score once the got in the red zone was absolutely pathetic. 30 points (in regulation) seems like a nice day...but when you have 500 FREAKING YARDS OF OFFENSE IN REGULATION HOW DO YOU NOT SCORE MORE TDS?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!? Clausen showed that there were no real lingering issues with his toe, coming out with a career day throwing for 422 yards on 23 of 31 passing, w/ 2TDs and a INT courtesy of a ball that went right through the hands of Armando Allen. Golden Tate continued to step up in the Post-Cannon era, torching UW for 244 yards, including a couple of LONG dominant catches
Golden just refuses to let the offense die if he can help it. Also, he can fly apparently:
Dude can do it all. I will fully admit to being terrified until he got up. The thought of an offense sans Floyd and Tate is not a world I want to live in. The craziest part of this game though was the double goalline stand by the Irish thanks to a roughing the snapper call after the 1st half of the stand on a FG attempt (I know, what?). I'll let the vid tell the story, a bit long, but way manly:
The takeaway is a win is a win. ND needs to step up their secondary play and RZ offense if they expect to put up a fight against USC in 2 weeks.
Result this week: 2-3
Result to date: 9-16 (.360)
Well, the winning % went up. When it goes up after a 2-3 week, you know you are bad. How'd you kids do?
Ryan:
Results this week: 2-3
Results to date: 8-17(.320)
Johnny Chan:
Results this week:2-3
Results to date: 7-18 (.280)
Kristin:
Results this week: 2-3 (yayyyyy you did it)
Results to date:2-14 (.125)
Judson:
Results this week: 4-1
Results to date:14-11 (.560)
Travis:
Results this week:3-2
Results to date:4-11 (.267)
Daniel:
Results this week: 3-2
Results to date:4-6 (.400)
Donnie B:
Results this week: 3-2
Results to date:7-13 (.350)
The Senator:
Results this week: 0-2
Results to date:0-2 (Why only pick 2 games mystery The Senator? And why make up your own lines? Come on now)
Matt:
Results this week: 3-2
Results to date: 9-14 (.360)
Better than it's been the last two weeks, we are slowly moving the right direction. Tune in next time, same bat time (tomorrow around 3ish prob) same bat channel (umm..this one).
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Week 5 College Football picks
Ok kids, we've all in the last 2 weeks paid our proper tribute to the mighty Gamblor. Our abhorrent prediction streak comes to an end....now. Game on!
#4 LSU @ #18 Georgia (-3)
Pick: LSU +3
There are some bizarre lines out there this week. There is no doubting that LSU barely survived against Miss St last weekend. UGA had a nice win over ASU, mainly thanks to all-world freak WR AJ Green. He catches, he runs, he blocks field goals...the kid does everything. HOWEVAHHHHH, I just don't trust UGA. They've had too many injuries and too many close calls this year. Any team has to be concerned when they go to play between the hedges, but I'm thinking cute lil UGA (seriously, watch a Georgia game, guarantee everytime they show the Georgia mascot at least 3 girls in your earshot will go awwwwwwwww) is Tiger Bait this on Saturday.
#7 USC (-5) @ #24 Cal
Pick: Cal +5
Cal looked God awful last weekend. I mean, Oregon just absolutely curbstomped the Bears. This is part of the reason I'm taking Cal this weekend. Tedford always has him team looking like a chic pick for the title before losing a Pac 10 game in demoralizing fashion. Typically the Trojans are the man at Cal's annual guillotine lever, but the Ducks beat them to the punch. I think that Cal bounces back from a terrible week behind an angry Javhid Best who has an axe to grind after a mere 55 yards last weekend. I also just don't think USC is that good this year. Plus, USC loses a weapon in Stafon Johnson, who is still in the hospital after a terrible weight room accident. My loathing for the Trojans is well known, but I wish nothing but the best for Johnson. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery, because nobody would wish a 275 lb weight being dropped on someone's throat. Good luck man.
#8 Oklahoma (-7.5) @ #17 Miami
Pick: Miami +7.5
Home dogs are always enticing, especially more than a touchdown. If this was in the Orange Bowl I'd feel a lot better, but sadly the U no longer calls it home. Word on the street is that it looks like Sam Bradford will make his return this Saturday against the Canes. HOWEVAH, luckily I didn't finish this post before getting home, as Joe Schad just said the mustachioed Landry Jones will start for the Sooners. This doesn't mean Sam wont play, but he won't start. EDIT: I take that back, it does indeed mean he won't play, Bradford out per @twtstephens(http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_college/2009/10/bradford-out-for-sooners-game-at-miami.html)Just thought I'd throw it out there. EDIT OVER With QB questionable, I've got a hard time trusting the Sooners with a dinged up QB. Further, I think Jacory Harris is freaking awesome. Sure Miami got clowned by VT last week, but I put as much of that on the team as I do the weather. Expect another bounce back here.
#22 Michigan @ Michigan St (-3)
Pick: LEAD PIPE LOCK O' THE YEAR BET THE FARM: Michigan +3
I don't know what Vegas knows that I don't. Sure, Michigan looked bad against Indiana last week...but Michigan St is a 1 win team while Michigan brings in breakout star Tate Forcier? MSU's D is fairly non-existant while Michigan has shown they have no problem putting up the points. I really don't get this line at all. Clearly this means MSU will win by 10 and you will all lose if you go with me, but I don't care. I know I'm walking into a trap and I'm doing it while whistling Dixie. This looks like a freaking blank check to me.
Washington @ Notre Dame (-13)
Pick: Notre Dame -13
This pick is made completely based on moral obligation. I do not understand this line at all. I'm not saying ND can't cover 13, I'm just trying to figure out why an unranked team missing it's best weapon on offense and ravaged by injuries throughout the offense is favored by a point more than the #4 team in the country (LSU) was when they played UW. Granted, LSU played UW at Washington, this game is at ND Stadium. And I know that ND is going to get higher lines because Vegas knows there are a lot of homerriffic idiots like me that will bet ND regardless of logic. If ND was at full strength this spread would make a lot more sense. But wow, this is high. I think ND can cover it with Armando back and a healthier Jimmy, but I certainly wouldn't advise putting your 1st born on this line.
Go get em in the comments kids, we've got nowhere to go but up.
#4 LSU @ #18 Georgia (-3)
Pick: LSU +3
There are some bizarre lines out there this week. There is no doubting that LSU barely survived against Miss St last weekend. UGA had a nice win over ASU, mainly thanks to all-world freak WR AJ Green. He catches, he runs, he blocks field goals...the kid does everything. HOWEVAHHHHH, I just don't trust UGA. They've had too many injuries and too many close calls this year. Any team has to be concerned when they go to play between the hedges, but I'm thinking cute lil UGA (seriously, watch a Georgia game, guarantee everytime they show the Georgia mascot at least 3 girls in your earshot will go awwwwwwwww) is Tiger Bait this on Saturday.
#7 USC (-5) @ #24 Cal
Pick: Cal +5
Cal looked God awful last weekend. I mean, Oregon just absolutely curbstomped the Bears. This is part of the reason I'm taking Cal this weekend. Tedford always has him team looking like a chic pick for the title before losing a Pac 10 game in demoralizing fashion. Typically the Trojans are the man at Cal's annual guillotine lever, but the Ducks beat them to the punch. I think that Cal bounces back from a terrible week behind an angry Javhid Best who has an axe to grind after a mere 55 yards last weekend. I also just don't think USC is that good this year. Plus, USC loses a weapon in Stafon Johnson, who is still in the hospital after a terrible weight room accident. My loathing for the Trojans is well known, but I wish nothing but the best for Johnson. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery, because nobody would wish a 275 lb weight being dropped on someone's throat. Good luck man.
#8 Oklahoma (-7.5) @ #17 Miami
Pick: Miami +7.5
Home dogs are always enticing, especially more than a touchdown. If this was in the Orange Bowl I'd feel a lot better, but sadly the U no longer calls it home. Word on the street is that it looks like Sam Bradford will make his return this Saturday against the Canes. HOWEVAH, luckily I didn't finish this post before getting home, as Joe Schad just said the mustachioed Landry Jones will start for the Sooners. This doesn't mean Sam wont play, but he won't start. EDIT: I take that back, it does indeed mean he won't play, Bradford out per @twtstephens(http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_college/2009/10/bradford-out-for-sooners-game-at-miami.html)Just thought I'd throw it out there. EDIT OVER With QB questionable, I've got a hard time trusting the Sooners with a dinged up QB. Further, I think Jacory Harris is freaking awesome. Sure Miami got clowned by VT last week, but I put as much of that on the team as I do the weather. Expect another bounce back here.
#22 Michigan @ Michigan St (-3)
Pick: LEAD PIPE LOCK O' THE YEAR BET THE FARM: Michigan +3
I don't know what Vegas knows that I don't. Sure, Michigan looked bad against Indiana last week...but Michigan St is a 1 win team while Michigan brings in breakout star Tate Forcier? MSU's D is fairly non-existant while Michigan has shown they have no problem putting up the points. I really don't get this line at all. Clearly this means MSU will win by 10 and you will all lose if you go with me, but I don't care. I know I'm walking into a trap and I'm doing it while whistling Dixie. This looks like a freaking blank check to me.
Washington @ Notre Dame (-13)
Pick: Notre Dame -13
This pick is made completely based on moral obligation. I do not understand this line at all. I'm not saying ND can't cover 13, I'm just trying to figure out why an unranked team missing it's best weapon on offense and ravaged by injuries throughout the offense is favored by a point more than the #4 team in the country (LSU) was when they played UW. Granted, LSU played UW at Washington, this game is at ND Stadium. And I know that ND is going to get higher lines because Vegas knows there are a lot of homerriffic idiots like me that will bet ND regardless of logic. If ND was at full strength this spread would make a lot more sense. But wow, this is high. I think ND can cover it with Armando back and a healthier Jimmy, but I certainly wouldn't advise putting your 1st born on this line.
Go get em in the comments kids, we've got nowhere to go but up.
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