Saturday, September 26, 2009
STONE COLD LEAD PIPE DOCKS OF WEEK 3
Friday, September 18, 2009
STONE COLD LEAD PIPE DOCKS OF WEEK 2
We're back (at least 2/3 of us) for week 2 of the Stone Cold Lead Pipe Dock Picks of the Week. As our leader mentioned he is off getting married this week and probably (if he knows whats good for him) won't be making any picks this week. In true Vik fashion he actually had a great week with his picks last week, but won't be able to continue on his hot streak. Vik went 4-1 with his lone loss coming from his Texans -4 pick. Every year the Texans tantalize us, and every year they fall short. This year looks to be no different. He also warned that the Cowboys and Vikings would run away in their games which they did. IP went 3-2. 2 unexpectedly close games on Monday Night Football ruined his chances at a 5-0 week. And I also went 3-2 with the Patriots and Bungles being my 2 blown games.
Week 2 has many interesting inter-divisional battles. Whereas week 1 had a lot of high double-digit spreads, Vegas seems to be predicting mostly all close games this week. On with the picks...
IP'S Picks (3-2):
Saints over Eagles- (PICK EM)
This game is going to be a very fun one to watch for sure. We all presume McNabb will be out but I think he may try to suck it up and play through the injury. Whether he plays or not look for this one to be a high scoring affair and I just do not see Drew Cool Brees slowing down at all. He is getting all parties involved in the offensive attack and I just think they have too much firepower for a lot of teams in the NFC. Saints by 10 31-21
Chiefs over Raiders- (Chiefs -3)
Another divison game in the AFC West. Both the Chiefs and Raiders had surprisingly strong showings in week one, which I think can be attributed to the intensity of a division game. This one will be no different. The Raiders showed they can move the ball a little bit and had some heart. Tyler Thigpen showed he is very capable of putting up some points against a good defense. Look for this one to be close but the the tough K.C. crowd will push the Chefs over the top for a 7 point victory. Chiefs 17-10.
Seahawks over Niners (Niners -1)
This is another division game that will be very very close. A lot of people love what Mike Singeltary is doing in San Fran, and I myself am impressed with the culture he is trying to instill. But year in and year out people sleep on the big birds for Seattle and they get burned. I look for Hassleback and Co. to go in to Cali and come away victorious. Seahawks 24-14.
Colts over Dolphins (Colts -4)
The injury bug has hit the Colts early this year with Anthony Gonzalez sidelined for 2 months with a knee issue. But with Peyton operating this team they will find a way to dictate terms to the Dolphins. The Dolphins looked terrible in week one and I do not see this changing barring the running game going bananas. Colts by 10. 24-14
Patriots over Jets (Pats -4)
Rex Ryan you done messed up homey. The constant verbal jabs taken at the Patriots is going to mess you up. T-Brady is calm cool and collected but even he told you to relax a little bti this week. Look for a determined Patriots team to roll in to town and put a good old fashion ars whooping on the J-E-T-S. Oh yeah Mark Sanchez, I think you will be awesome but for this game better get the ADVIL ready.
Patriots 35-17
Suman's Picks (3-2):
Jaguars -3
The main reason I like this game is that the Cardinals really struggle when they go to the east coast. Some interesting "Mob type" movement in this line as well, in the Jaguars favor. Last week Reggie Wayne torched rookie Derrick Cox of the Jaguars which could bode well for the Cardinals and their WR1 Larry Fitzgerald. However, in general the Cardinals seemed discombobulated. I expect the Jags to bring the house at old man Warner. Unless the Cardinals decide to give the ball to Beanie Wells and establish that running game, I see the Jags putting up a similar defensive effort to the 49ers last week.
Jets +4
A mild upset here. Rex Ryan's defense looked great last week, whereas the Patriots' keeps losing key players (Jerod Mayo is out now). The Patriots had no business winning that game last week, but took advantage when they were given the opportunity. The Jets have been talking that shit all week, and I think they back it up. Sanchez could pull a Trent Edwards and work that short/intermediate passing game to death. They have a sound running game. But most of all I don't think the Pats have the horses on D right now. Tom Brady, meet the next you, Mark Sanchez. The Jets pull out a close one.
Bears +3
I might have lost my mind, but I see the Bears in another upset here. Cutler can't possibly play as bad as he did last week. I think he calms down a bit in front of the home folks, and is able to pass the ball around the way Kerry Collins did against the Steelers last week. It really hurts the Steelers that Troy Polamalu is out. The loss of Brian Urlacher is big, but I think the Bears are more than capable with their reserves. I think they do everything to knock Big Ben out of the game because you know he's going to hold onto the ball for longer than sin. The Steelers running game appears to be non existent once again.
Browns +3
The Browns have a huge step down in competition after tangling with the Vikings last week. Its not often that I think the Browns can go into Mile High and steal one, in fact this might be the first time I've ever thought that, but I think this is the year. The Broncos have to be on a high after that lucky win last week. Up to that Stokeley catch they only had 6 points against the lowly Bengals. The Browns meanwhile had a decent showing against the Vikings. Their defense did at least until A-Pete went crazy. The offense looked anemic. A low scoring snoozer here that I think the Browns keep close and win.
Colts -3
In case you didn't figure out from my NFL preview (that I know you all read religously) I'm not high on the Dolphins this year. Not that last year was a fluke, but I don't see them repeating that performance. On the other hand, I think Manning could lead any team to at least 9 or 10 wins right now. The loss of Anthony Gonzalez hurts, but Gonzalez himself said Pierre Garcon is the better WR. I think Peyton shows up big on Monday Night and the Colts route.
Monday, September 14, 2009
WADE'S WORLD CHARITY WEEKEND BOWLING EVENT
One thing's for sure, DWade knows how to throw a party. As I had written earlier, DWade took over Chicago this past weekend to raise money for his Wade's World Charity Organization. DWade setup a lot of cool and different events for the weekend, and I actually got a chance to go to the one on Friday. Wade threw a bowling party at Ten Pin, and it was great and successful event. DWade setup lanes where people could bowl, eat and drink, and they also setup auctions for autographed jerseys and balls and some other items to raise money for the foundation. The best part about the night was that every single lane and item sold! That was great, because it was definitely for a great cause. My friend Toni actually ended up bidding the most for his autographed jersey, which was pretty exciting too.
Anyways, here are my pictures from the Event....
Here is also my favorite moment from the event. It is DWade and his friends trying to karaoke to Boyz to Men's End of the Road. It was hilarious! I think we can all agree Wade needs to stick to his day job, haha. It turned out well though because he was a good sport about it. And since he went first and butchered it, it allowed everyone else there to kick back, relax, karaoke and have fun...
Also, here is me asking DWade a question. I won't lie, I was mad nervous, and I look twang, but it was awesome. Wade was a really nice guy...
Sunday, September 13, 2009
STONE COLD LEAD PIPE DOCKS OF THE WEEK
We're BACKKKKKK!!! What's going on everyone? Is everyone as excited about the football season as we are here at DSS!?!?! Man, this year is going to be great, and I can't wait until the next kickoff on Sunday. Yesterday's Steelers Titans game was off the hook, and this Sunday games are going to be even better.
Also, as some of you may know, I'm getting married soon. The big date is actually on 9/28, which is right around the corner. Unfortunately, because of this, I won't be blogging much during these next few weeks. And even though my girl loves the blog, I don't think she will love the idea of me on my laptop during an Indian wedding ceremony or during one of it's many functions. Let's just say if I blog over the next few weeks, there might not even be a wedding.
That being said, I'll definitely try to stop in as much as possible. For the next few weeks, my buddies Suman and IP will be making the weekly Stone Cold Lead Pipe Dock Picks of the WEEK!!! Try saying that fast five times! And although they are not as good as I am, they are pretty decent. And if you get a chance, definitely check out what they have to say every week, because they do win money! I'm actually working on my picks for this weekend as we speak, so I'll try to get them up by Saturday.
Lastly, since my life is pretty much over soon(jk Rosh, in case you read this), I will be embarking on a wild MAN/ SPORTS weekend, which will be taking place from Friday to Sunday. It will include a lot of sports, and a lot of drinking!
Tonight I will be heading over to the DWade charity Event at TenPin, which should be sick. A ton of athletes and Chicago ballers are going to be there, so you know I will be in heaven. There is also an open bar I think, so it might get rowdy. I also wanted to take a quick second to say thanks to my friend Tammy for setting me up with this awesome opportunity!
Then when that's over with, and I finally wake up Saturday, the mission will continue. I'm going to go play golf with some of my good friends in the morning. After that, my buddy IP was able to set us up with two vip passes to the BMW Championships at Cog Hill! I can't wait to go see Tiger and the Lefty play Saturday. And no joke, but golf has been my life since I've started playing. I'm fascinated by the game now, and I can't wait to see just how good these Pro players are. This is going to be amazing! Also, a big shout out to Shahir and my buddy IP for setting this up for me.
And when that is all said and done, the grand daddy of my weekend will be here. It's going to be Bears vs the FUDGE PACKERS in GB, at Lambeau Field!!! I got these tickets a really long time ago, and have been counting down the days ever since. It's going to be the season opener on Sunday Night football. The Bears vs Packers. AR vs Cutler. Both teams have high hopes this year, so who will win?!?! For my MAN/SPORTS weekend, can it get better than that? I'm banking on my man/ sports weekend bonanza ending with a Bears W over the GB. This game will send me off happily ever after, so I know it's going to happen!
Here are my picks for today...
Vik's Pix:
Jags at Colts - Jags+7
I love the Jags in this situation here today. Everyone sees this as the great Colts vs the lowly Jags from last year, but I see this as a great value bet in the game. I don't know if you remember this, but the Jags always play the Colts tough. In addition to that, the Jags last year were terrible because their oline was struggling. Injuries killed them, and that took away from their powerful running game. If you guys remember, the Jags were one of the sexy picks to make the Super Bowl last year. Everyone pointed towards their running game and defense as to the reasons why. Well guess what, that defense is still there, and their running game is going to be a lot better this year. The Jags revamped their offensive line through the draft and via free agency, which will be huge for them. I see DG having a big year too, and MJD will definitely keep this game close today. The Colts are going to be good, but I want to see how they play under their new Head Coach. I also want to see how the Colts running game is. Will Addai show up? Is their OLine too old and slow now? Also the Colts are missing the Head of their defense, Bob Sanders. They are a totally different team without him. Imagine the Steelers without Troy, but to a lesser degree. The Colts will always be dangerous because of Peyton, but there are just too many question marks for me here, and it's a division game. Division games are always a slugfest. That is why I will take the 7...
Jets at Texans - Texans -4
I love the Texans every single year, so I hope they finally come through today. Schaub is ok, and with AJ and Slaton, they got a big three that is going to cause havoc this year. Also on the Jets side, Ellis and Pace are out. That is huge for them and a plus for Schaub and that offense there. The team is also learning and still getting accustomed to this new D. Also, Sanchez is making his first start on the road, and it's vs Ryans and Super Mario. I'm also not sold on Thomas Jones having another good season, so let's see just how affective this Jets running game is. They will definitely be chasing him around all game long. I just think the Texans win by at least a TD in this one...
Skins at Giants - Skins +7
I know the giants are going to be one of the best teams in football, and I love them this year, maybe even to make the Super Bowl, but I think 7 pts is wayyy to much in this division game. The Skins actually were a very improved team last year, and although I don't see them making the playoffs this year, I do see them playing the Giants tough today. I see this as a classic slugfest game, kind of how Tenn Pitt was on Thursday. Both teams will run the ball a lot, and keep it close. I don't see the game getting blown open on either side. I also think Haynesworth will really help this defense and Orakpo is going to be sick with him. I will take 7pts with two good defenses and two good running games, during a division game...
Niners at Cards - Niners +7
I don't know why, but I see the Cards having that Super Bowl hangover this year. I want to see if Fitz will get hit by the Madden curse. If Boldin's hammy will ever be a 100 percent, and if Warner can last the entire season. Also with Boldin out today, I just don't see the Cards lighting up the Niners in this one. I also am curious to see how the Cards running game plays out with Wells and Hightower. The Niners played amazing last year after Singletary was hired, so I am kind of banking on the team playing with the same intensity this year, as they did last year in the second half of the season. They did not win many games, but they were in every single game pretty much after Singletary started, and that is all you can ask for when getting 7. I also think Frank Gore is going to have a really nice game today, as the Cards are suspect vs the run. I see this as a game where the Niners try to dominate time of possession and just keep it close. I wouldn't be surprised if they did win this game straight up though, but I do see them keeping it close.
Dolphins at Falcons - Falcons -3
The Spread scares me a little bit, but I really think the Falcons come through today. They play in a tough place to play, and I definitely think that will help in the 2nd half. The Falcons offense is even better than last year to me, with the addition of TGO. Turner will open up the field for TGO, and vice versa. 8 in the box, boom Ryan will find TGO. 7 in the box, and Turner will run wild. Ryan was already solid last year, and I see him getting even better this year. Roddy White is a really underrated WR, and I see him having a huge game today because the Dolphins revamped their entire secondary. They are putting rookies and new FA's out there, and that is bad news vs this Falcons squad at home on that ground. The Fins were good last year, but I see them regressing this year. I also think their Wildcat is out of the bag now, so teams won't be surprised when they bust it out again. I'm not sold on the Fins offense otherwise, so I will take the Falcons at home in this one.
I also do like the Under in this game. Everyone is on the over, but that total is high, and I see the Fins trying to run the ball a lot, and trying to keep the ball out of the Falcons hands. Which means they will eat up a lot of clock....
Trap Game - Cowboys. How is everyone on the Cowboys, but the line has moved 1.5 pts in the wrong directions? I don't see how the Bucs keep it close, but I'm down on the Boys this year too. Maybe Vegas knows something we don't. Be careful here. Another easy layup seems like the Vikings, but with everyone on them, the line hasn't moved at all? I definitely don't see the Browns winning or covering, but this one scares me.
FYI - I bought the hooks and pts to get my spreads to where I wanted them...
IP's Pix:
Chiefs at Ravens- (Ravens -13)- So here we go….KC is coming off a inconsistent preseason which left them with more questions then answers. The QB situation is murky, the play calling situation has changed already, and the team’s identity is a mystery. The Ravens on the other hand are looking to build on last season’s success and seem very poised. Unflappable Flacco is the tough QB this team needs and even with out Tyrannosaurs Rex Ryan, the defense will be of elite caliber. Look for the Ravens to roll the Chiefs at home 28-10. Ravens to cover.
Bills at Pats- (Pats -10.5)- The BRADY FACTOR……Tom Brady is on a mission this year. We haven’t heard too much from the East Coast juggernauts but rest assured a healthy Mr. Brady will light up the scoreboard. The Bills also have offensive coordinator issues and I’m not sold on Trent Edwards being able to sling it around against Brady. Look for New England to roll in this one 35-17
Chargers at Raiders- (Chargers -10)- The most helpless franchise in the league at the moment, the Raiders looked miserable in preseason, especially against the Saints. The saints ran and threw all over the Raiders like they were Craig Ehlo or something (congrats MJ on the H.O.F). I don’t see anything different happening against the Chargers. Phillip Rivers is one of the best passers in the league and they have a nasty running attack. This one is a BLOWOUT!!!!!!!! Chargers 42-14
Jets at Texans- (Jets +4.5)- A matchup of two teams looking to escape mediocrity. On paper both teams match up well. A healthy Matt Schaub is as dangerous as any QB in the league and Andre Johnson is just a beast. The Jets counter with a defense that has a new swagger compliments of their coach Rex Ryan. This game should be a clo9se one but I am going to go with my boy from USC Mr. Sanchez and say the Jets pull off the upset. Jets by a field goal 20-17.
Eagles at Panthers (Eagles -3) - LETS GO RON MEXICO!!!!!!!! Well he won’t be available for a few more weeks but I thought I would show the man some love NH. This game is going to be a back and forth battle. Carolina boasts a strong running attack and the Eagles has looked suspect on D. However, D McNabb is focused and ready to lead this team back to prominence in the NFC. Look for the Eagles to surprise Carolina at home with a 24-17 win.
Suman's Pix:
Bengals -4
Friday, September 11, 2009
WADE'S WORLD CHARITY WEEKEND
If you have ever checked out my site, then I'm sure you know that I'm a huge DWADE fan. MU REPRESENT BABY! Well DWade is back in the Chi this weekend, and it's for a very good cause. Wade is hosting his annual Wade's World Charity Weekend, and it's going to be great. The Charity Weekend is basically a 4 day Fundraising Event, where all the net proceeds benefit the Wade's World Foundation, and different local Chicago Community Organizations.
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This will be the third year of Wade giving back to his hometown of Chicago. Chicago, we definitely need to show our man DWade some love for helping out our community, so be sure to check out the event he is hosting on Saturday. I'll be there, so let me know if you any of you are going to be headed there. Here are the details if you are interested. The Event is on Saturday, 9/12...
A big part of the Wade’s World Foundation 4-day charity event is the “D. Wade’s Chicago Has Talent” event hosted by comedian Gary Owens on 9/12 at Harris Theater @ 7:00pm CT in Millennium Park. Fans can get tickets for just $15. American Idol contestant Michael Johns will be performing. Tickets are available at www.wadesworldfoundation.org
Here's a little bit more about his charity...
In June, Wade hosted his 5th Annual Dwyane Wade Basketball Camp for nearly 700 kids from the Chicago and Robbins area at
Again, this is all for a great cause, so definitely try to come out this weekend and support Wade and his charity. I'll be going to the Events on the 11th, and the 12th, and I can't wait! GO DWADE! GO MARQUETTE!!! Click Here to Read More..
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
NFL SEASON PREVIEW - by Suman V
Last season had a terrible ending. I was convinced when the playoffs began that the Steelers would lose at some point because of their suspect offensive line. Of course they didn’t. Of course they somehow won a fucking Super Bowl without having a great O-line. Of course they had to win in the manner they did too (game winning 2 minute drive to one of my favorite Ohio State players). In my face.
It was a great game to symbolize the new NFL where dynasties do not exist, and things change easily from year to year. The Arizona Cardinals, whom NOBODY had to be in the Super Bowl before the year began against a team that either had one of the best defenses of all-time or was extremely overrated and got lucky. Nobody knows anything.
Forecasting the NFL season is an exercise in futility because of all the unknowns. Tom Brady going down in week 1 last year changed everything. DeAngelo Williams somehow morphed from “ok” to maybe the most explosive back in the league. Going into this season who knows how Mike Vick will gel with the Eagles. If Albert Haynesworth will still try after striking it rich or how Matt Cassell will perform in K.C. Or even if the Steelers can repeat what they did last year with basically the same exact team.
But the internet was created for 2 reasons: porn and for losers like me to get this shit down in writing so that I can say “I told you so” 5 months from now. Or for my friends to remind me how much of an idiot I was before the season began.…so here goes nothing. Division-by-division previews with projected records, and how I think the playoffs turn out at the end.
AFC
East:
Patriots (12-4)
Their schedule looks tougher than usual because every team in the division is legit, and capable of an upset. I don’t know if Brady is 100% but about 75% of him is better than most QB’s. I have questions about their secondary (when you pick up Leigh Bodden after he was cut by the Lions and he starts for you…well something has to give). That season ender at Houston against the Texans will be huge. Losing so much veteran leadership might be insurmountable. But fuck it: in Brady and Belichek I trust.
Dolphins (6-10)
I’ve seen this script before…struggling team lands stud offensive lineman in the draft à Team becomes surprise team of the league à Team receives lofty expectations the following year à Team urinates on itself. Ladies and gentleman the 2009 Cleveland Browns!! You know what I mean. I don’t know who officially has the toughest schedule in the league, but opening with Atlanta, Indy, San Diego, and closing with Houston and Pittsburgh make the Dolphins a good candidate for that distinction. A questionable receiving core doesn’t help. Plus, I don’t see Chad Pennington, Ronnie Brown, and Ricky Williams all staying healthy for a whole year.
Bills (5-11)
I really liked this team last year, but they were just never able to get over that hump. Not enough firepower on offense. Terrell Owens fixes that. Ralph Wilson wanted another winner at the twilight of his life at any expense, and I think he may have one finally. Lee Evans is poised to have a huge year now that he won’t be the focus of the other team’s defense. I like that defense led by Marcus Stroud, and if that young offensive line can somehow gel in time I see these guys as a playoff team. However that line hasn’t gelled to date. And apparently Dick Jauron is an idiot who doesn’t like complicated offenses. No offensive coordinator…no offense line = struggles.
Jets (4-12)
I really like Rex Ryan, and the swag he’s bringing to that Jets team. But with a new QB, new coach, new defense, etc…it's going to take time. I think Sanchez will be special in time, but I don’t see lightning getting caught in that bottle again as with the Ravens and Falcons last year. Another brutal early schedule. Unless Sanchez pulls a Matt Ryan this team can easily be 0-6 out of the gate.
North:
Steelers (12-4)
I fucking hate them. I fucking hate them. I fucking hate them. I wonder if in my lifetime there will be even one year where they go 2-14 and suck. I want to say they’ll have a Super Bowl hangover, but they bring everyone relevant back. Limas Sweed may end up being an upgrade over Nate Washington. And they get Rashard Mendenhall back from injury. They did lose some pieces on D, but lets be honest they are going to be there in the end. I saw Ziggy Hood play one play last week and realized he is a good one. FML.
Bengals (9-7)
I originally had these guys as a sleeper pick. But then everyone started dick riding. Now everyone loves them because of Hard Knocks. I admit, it's impossible to hate them now. Esteban Ochocinco is hilarious. But there are huge question marks such as Carson Palmer’s health, that offensive line (sorry Bungle fans its already too late for Andre Smith and his tig ol bitties to be a huge factor this season), and the secondary. However this is Marvin Lewis’ last chance. I say his guys pull through for him and have a good season. That linebacking corps is going to be sick with those USC guys. And Chris Henry looks like he’s ready for a re-breakout season. Glad the Browns passed on Maualuga too. Once again, FML.
Ravens (9-7)
I don’t know what it is, but something just seems a little off to me about these guys. It may just be that they couldn’t beat the Steelers last year in 3 tries. I don’t know, but it shouldn’t be that way because Flacco seems legit, and if Ray Rice pans out they will have an improved offense. You know the defense is going to be good. Ray Lewis should send Haloti Ngata (another guy the Browns gift-wrapped to a rival in the draft) a fruit basket for extending his career by a few years. But I’ll say Flacco has a few things go wrong this year and they regress a few steps.
Browns (4-12)
These guys don’t even deserve a paragraph. The only bright spot when looking at their schedule is that they end the season with 3 winnable games. Hopefully that will give us some momentum heading into year 2 of the Mangini era which I think will actually be a turning point in the history of this franchise. My guess is that BQ wins that QB spot, and that the Browns end up with Taylor Mays or Eric Berry in next years draft.
West:
Chargers (13-3)
I’m pretty high on the Chargers for the 3rd or 4th straight year. Phillip Rivers has entered that upper tier of QB’s. They are as healthy as they’ve been in a while. I don’t think LDT has another one of those 25+ TD’s 1500 yard seasons in him just because he is old in running back terms, but I think he has something to prove to all the people that said he fell off last year. And now they have a proven Darren Sproles. They have a relatively soft schedule too because their division sucks. Don’t forget this was a pretty good offense last year, so that should continue. If their defense shows up, watch out. Tila Tequila deserved it.
Raiders (6-10)
This team is just a mess, but I just feel like they have too much talent not to steal a few wins, regardless of who their coach and GM are. Still have a nice 3 headed monster at RB. Jamarcus seems to have improved. Interesting to see how that defense plays without Rob Ryan and if Richard Seymour ever shows up. If he does, and is motivated, outside playoff team you heard it hear first.
Chiefs (3-13)
A lot of people seem to be high on these guys, but I’m not. Scott Pioli has a plan and he is sticking to it, but I just don’t like the moves their making so far. I didn’t like them reaching for Tyson Jackson at #3 in the draft. You can’t be sold on Matt Cassell because he has started like 15 games since high school. I’ve been reading a lot about how D-Bowe has been struggling in camp and not putting in a lot of work. And he is pretty much their only playmaker.
Broncos (2-14)
Absolutely horrific schedule. I mean now that Brandon Marshall is suspended for the first 2 games, those Cincy and Cleveland games look much tougher. They they go to Oakland, and after that they don’t really have a “winnable” game until they play KC later in the year like week 10. Forget about this team. Would’ve been fun if they kept Cutler, had a happy Marshall, and added Moreno. Kyle Orton??? Uhhh no. Josh McDaniels seems in over his head so far. I guess adding Sam Bradford or Colt McCoy next year is a bright spot.
South:
Texans (11-5)
Matt Schaub. This team is only going to go as far as he takes them. And that depends on if he can last a whole season. Huge “if,” but assuming he does I think they finally break through this season to get a playoff birth. A top 5 defense end, a top 5 linebacker, a top 10 running back, and a top 5 receiver. Everything is in place they just have to deliver.
Colts (10-6)
I think they’ll have a tough go of it early in the year while they adjust to life with Dungy. They also have a stretch in the middle of the year where they play Houston, New England, and then travel to Baltimore and Houston, and finish off with Tennessee at home. Just brutal. But they finish off with 4 “easy” games and I think Peyton Manning will somehow carry them down the stretch to win another playoff birth just like last year.
Titans (10-6)
I see this team regressing a little bit. Some of that has to do with them not meeting expectations last year and then losing their MVP Albert Haynesworth. But most of it has to do with them being in maybe the toughest division in football. No cupcakes here. Plus Kerry Collins is like 48 now. As Peter King said in his last column, why not let Vince Young line up in a wildcat formation 5-10 snaps a game? It’s a way to utilize his talents most effectively while still keeping Collins as your QB1.
Jaguars (8-8)
I really really like this team and with a few bounces going their way I feel they can win 10-12 games. This division is just too tough, and with some of their question marks I decided to put them lower than the others. The biggest question is at WR…Torry Holt is supposed to be the answer, but he’s given up too much of himself over the years. There is no way he has anything left. I think MJD can have an MVP type year, but I don’t know if that’s enough to carry them towards the playoffs.
NFC
East:
Eagles (11-5)
The offense is where they spent most of their time and energy in the offseason. But I feel like the defense is what’s going to keep them afloat when it matters. And I have a feeling the regular season will go smoothly for them, but they’ll falter in the postseason. Oh yea, I really think Brian Westbrook breaks down this year. There is a reason they drafted Shady McCoy so high. Its going to be weird not seeing Brian Dawkins patrolling back there anymore too.
Redskins (10-6)
This is the year. They finally take that leap into the playoffs and do shit. As long as Haynesworth still cares even after he got paid, I think that defense will be sick. LaRon Landry is patrolling center field with some experience now. And the addition of Haynesworth will allow Phil Daniels, Andre Carter, Orakpo, and Rocky McIntosh to wreak havoc. I’m also a believer in their 2nd year receivers…Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas. Don’t forget this team was like 8-1 or something last year before falling apart. And they got better this offseason. Jason Campbell has all the toys, now he just has to deliver.
Giants (10-6)
I don’t think people realize how good this team has been the last 2 years. They were rolling last season too until Cheddar Bomb ruined the season. They really beefed up and already good defense and they get Usi back. I also think Kenny Philips makes the leap this year to almost pro bowl level. He is that sick IMO. Also, Andre Brown = breakout star you heard it here first.
Cowboys (5-11)
Some people are saying addition by subtraction with regards to T.O. But I don’t know I think this team is farther away than people want to believe. Their o-line is getting old and decrepit, their WR Corps is weak sauce, and I’m not a believer in Wade Phillips. But Barber, Felix Jones (if healthy), and Tashard Choice will be special this year if that line does its job. But here’s betting they won’t
North:
Packers (12-4)
This team will be another interesting case study on whether what goes on in the preseason has any relevance to real life. They just looked sick all preseason. I got to witness them tear the Browns up. Nothing needs to be said about their offense because they did it last year. Their defense is another story. So many unknowns, but I say B.J. Raji helps them turn it around this year, and they dominate this division.
Vikings (9-7)
I think A-Pete takes another leap and enters Jim Brown/Walter Payton/Barry Sanders territory. But I also think Brett Favre falters and doesn’t make it through the year. The defense looks impregnable, but this team just looks too good on paper…and here’s guessing that Favre fucks that up somehow.
Bears (6-10)
Everyone’s jizzing over this team, and rightfully so with the addition of one of the best arms in the league. But I just see too many holes at key spots for them to make a serious run. Tommie Harris isn’t what he was because of injuries. Orlando Pace was getting run by busters in the preseason and isn’t what he was because of injuries. And Brian Urlacher is getting up their in years and has seen his production drop in recent years. I also don’t believe Devin Hester can make that leap to be a true #1 WR. Sorry to the owner of this blog (even though I probably just did you a favor by reverse-jinxing).
Lions (3-13)
I don’t like the decision to start Stafford from day 1. Even though watching the ball come off this kids hands is almost breathtaking, and even though in time I think Stafford to Megatron will be special….right now this team is horrible and sticking him out there in that division behind this offensive line is asking for trouble. What happened to the plan of feeding Daunte to the lions (hehehe) and letting Stafford ease his way into this? Really tough schedule up until the bye week, so that first win might have to wait awhile…but 3 is better than nothing.
West:
Seahawks (8-8)
This was going to be my comeback team of the year but with 2 of their key offensive lineman out with significant injuries I just can’t do it. I really love Hassel to come back strong. TJ Houshmanzadeh will shore up that WR corps…and watch out for John Carlson and Deon Butler to break through this year. Also Aaron Curry and Lofa will be a sick combo. But I just can’t do it. A tough schedule. Almost no running game. And an injured offensive line. Sorry guys.
Cardinals (7-9)
Have to be scared of them falling into a sophomore slump. I don’t know if Kurt Warner can maintain at 54 years of age. But Beanie Wells is my darkhorse for ROY (if you can make a first round pick a darkhorse). Did you see that preseason game??? If he can somehow stay healthy (HUGE IF) he’ll get the opportunity because Tim Hightower and his 2.8 ypc ain’t doing shit. But I just don’t think Fitz can carry them for a whole year the way he did at the end of last season. Plus really tough first 10 weeks.
49ers (5-11)
Still don’t think they have enough firepower to do any damage. I really like that Mike Singeltary has given this team an identity, but they will sorely miss what Mike Crabtree could’ve given them. I think they’ll be in almost every game they play, but I don’t see them pulling out too many wins.
Rams (4-12)
See: 49ers. I just don’t see them with enough firepower to win. And no way Bulger makes it through the season…if he does get injured then they got Kyle Boller backing things up. Not good. I like what they are doing with their defense adding good, young defenders like Chris Long and James Lauranaitus. But not enough offensive power.
South:
Falcons (11-5)
I absolutely love how this team was put together. With Matt Ryan getting comparisons to Peyton you know he’s legit. Michael Turner is poised to have another big year, and he’s got the dangerous Jerious Norwood (contract year) backing him up. Plus the addition of Tony Gonzalez should let Roddy White continue his domination. Most underrated player in the game? That defense is amazing too. Everyone is 27 or younger and they are stacked with SEC/southern talent…always a key to success.
Panthers (10-6)
Got to feel bad for Jake Delhomme after the way last year ended. If Dwayne Jarrett can emerge as a viable option this team has super bowl aspirations. But I don’t see him doing that. It also seems like they’ve had the same roster for like 5 years. But as they proved last season they aren’t a fluke team. They got major talent. But I see another pre-Super Bowl playoff exit.
Saints (9-7)
Drew Brees is entering Marino territory. That offense is going to be nasty. The only question is if they are going to be a real contender is if that defense will show up. This is year 2 for Sedrick Ellis so that should be huge. If he turns that defense around they could easily win this division. Very easy first part of the schedule.
Buccaneers (5-11)
Monte Kiffin is gone. Jon Gruden is gone. Their offensive coordinator just got fired. New head coach. While they definitely have pieces in place, I just feel they have too much going on to be a good, stable team. Plus they got Kellen Winslow now who has been touched by the Cleveland Curse. Game over for the Bucs.
AFC Playoffs
1. Chargers
2. Steelers
3. Patriots
4. Texans
5. Colts
6. Titans
1st round: Pats over Titans, Colts over Texans
2nd round: Steelers over Colts, Chargers over Pats
AFC Championship: Steelers over Chargers
NFC Playoffs
1. Packers
2. Eagles
3. Falcons
4. Seahawks
5. Redskins
6. Panthers
1st round: Falcons over Panthers, Redskins over Seahawks
2nd round: Packers over Redskins, Falcons over Eagles
NFC Championship: Falcons over Packers
Super Bowl: Steelers over Falcons
Regular Season MVP: Peyton Manning
Offensive Player of the Year: Peyton Manning
Defensive Player of the Year: Mario Williams
Rookie of the Year: Chris “Beanie” Wells
Comeback Player of the Year: Matt Hasselbeck
Coach of the Year: Mike Tomlin
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
GUY DUPUY'S SICK DUNK...
Remember when VC said "it's over" after his dunk in the 2000 Dunk Contest? Well, check this out....
Another view...
IT'S OVER!!!! WOW!!!
Thanks to BDL for the link
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