tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49981348033909378092024-03-05T21:08:18.047-05:00ANYTHING for SportsEitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-59362679940235491742011-05-05T17:19:00.000-04:002011-05-05T17:19:39.989-04:00Various thoughts from the world of sports<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3WjWoNfV8hdEOFAZuN5KrFjTpmSCSaQaOJuF1Fc5pQlTxwZKAdeUhMZcgqrdFSPWgSUJ1eXcQeHA86qiiS6zpVjwRz7Y4OO222JRekvlgVlFjI8te0he6p1qXFov77uFK-9O0rYEu-tI/s1600/HEADINGimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3WjWoNfV8hdEOFAZuN5KrFjTpmSCSaQaOJuF1Fc5pQlTxwZKAdeUhMZcgqrdFSPWgSUJ1eXcQeHA86qiiS6zpVjwRz7Y4OO222JRekvlgVlFjI8te0he6p1qXFov77uFK-9O0rYEu-tI/s320/HEADINGimages.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unless the Celtics lose. In which case I will hate this game.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><ul><li>Where hath the Truth gone? Paul Pierce's ineffectiveness has crippled the Celtics this series, specifically his inability to hit open threes, draw fouls on LeBron or Wade, and shoulder the scoring load in the fourth quarter (his specialty). Pierce must step it up in game 3. Both offensively and defensively, the Truth must emerge.</li>
</ul><ul></ul><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bkVl85xTMvRoB-Nosma7e2T0YfO189kSh_q-TEyXFjX4wgDbLBOCE1ozXbB5FXsY5-1Lawzich7o92ZMaJZA1_RvlFo0DyzwbbsjrI0vd5qkjmnjxnTDq04_4Nb-kf3ZM_re0zBrHSQ/s1600/WADEHANDimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bkVl85xTMvRoB-Nosma7e2T0YfO189kSh_q-TEyXFjX4wgDbLBOCE1ozXbB5FXsY5-1Lawzich7o92ZMaJZA1_RvlFo0DyzwbbsjrI0vd5qkjmnjxnTDq04_4Nb-kf3ZM_re0zBrHSQ/s1600/WADEHANDimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Couldn't do it without ya, buddy"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><ul><li>Dwyane Wade, welcome to the rivalry. Awful in the regular season series, Wade has continued to scorch the Celtics in the post-season. Last year he won game 4 all by himself (the "talk to the hand because I am on absolute fire" game), and this year he has continued his scoring frenzy by notching 38 points in a virtuosic game 1 performance. If Wade goes off in game 3, this series is over.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Is there any shot in basketball today more unstoppable than Dirk's step back? I say no. The man is a scoring savant, and he's been doing it consistently for more than a decade. Finally getting the chance to face-off against Kobe and the Lakers in the playoffs (pretty hard to believe these two have never played each other in the post-season before), Dirk is turning this series into a blow out. When all is said and done, ring or no ring, the big man from Germany will go down as one of the best scorers in league history.</li>
</ul><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPXEl1NDIG6UKpcaMFOTSHwuTcR4PnxqCfHaX2o0XGXIYHoKDNWCGWXPS0be5cuUABzNpzYLDBE8yQXYGqmdnR4_Sr8lafF4jO1kl-6cRlil9DHfprQlZMK3dgKafvsmgr_iBY89Z6yY/s1600/Draperimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPPXEl1NDIG6UKpcaMFOTSHwuTcR4PnxqCfHaX2o0XGXIYHoKDNWCGWXPS0be5cuUABzNpzYLDBE8yQXYGqmdnR4_Sr8lafF4jO1kl-6cRlil9DHfprQlZMK3dgKafvsmgr_iBY89Z6yY/s200/Draperimages.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Are you married? Who cares..."</td></tr>
</tbody></table><ul><li>Where have we seen this before (RE: Pau Gasol is soft)? After his fantastic and dominant performance in game 7 of last year's finals, many people removed the "soft" tag on Pau's back. At this point, I think it's safe to say that removing the "soft" tag from Pau Gasol is much like removing the "I cheat on my wife like it's my job" label from Don Draper: every once in a while, they'll stop doing what they've been doing, and you'll wonder "is it over?" Only to watch Gasol get destroyed down low by Carl "6'7" Landry and Tyson Chandler, while Don cheats on his wife a record 43 times in one episode.</li>
</ul><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoCa-ZIaTGBvgvART52weV21QR2TS2hFOqj4uyMhO6iltxaU-RrIRTy-KWZPWpuGXQlfbzvjjFi4WMfOpVa36G67q0RDJASJuWK9JUFO0aILcbqTqeWxshyphenhyphenneC-bh9p3DehrfT-sZTNo/s1600/DUBLAKAimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoCa-ZIaTGBvgvART52weV21QR2TS2hFOqj4uyMhO6iltxaU-RrIRTy-KWZPWpuGXQlfbzvjjFi4WMfOpVa36G67q0RDJASJuWK9JUFO0aILcbqTqeWxshyphenhyphenneC-bh9p3DehrfT-sZTNo/s1600/DUBLAKAimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Dubaka. You gotta see it to believe it</td></tr>
</tbody></table><ul><li>This Thunder-Grizzlies series is incredible. Games 1 and 2 couldn't have been any different, making game 3 all the more unpredictable. Z-Bo obviously has to play better than he did in game 2, but if Dubaka (my nickname for the creature that was Kevin Durant's offense and Serge Ibaka's defense in the last three minutes of the stunning game 5 clincher over Denver) comes back to life, I don't think anyone is stopping OKC. That was the most unbelievable display of offense and defense that I had ever seen. Ibaka's dunk-rejection and Durant's falling and-1 were two of the best highlights of this entire NBA season. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YB96WalqhrE">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YB96WalqhrE</a></li>
</ul><ul><li>The Hawks'-Bulls series is just plain boring. Is anyone watching those games outside of Chicago? And yes, that was a rip on Atlanta fans. If I wanted to watch two teams miss a billion shots in a row, I would just watch the WNBA.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Bill Belichick, the pressure is on you. If Nate Solder or Ras-I Dowling don't pan out, there are going to be lots of angry fans demanding to know why on earth the Pats passed over every top pass-rusher in the draft. The most likely outcome, of course, is that Belichick was right and we were all wrong. </li>
</ul><ul><li>Speaking of Solder and Dowling, I absolutely LOVE the picks. Not that I know a ton about either player (I have literally never watched them play), but left tackle and cornerback, to me, were two of the three biggest concerns heading into the draft. Solder is an absolute monster, and is garnering rave reviews from around the league, and Dowling looks like he could be a Devin McCourty-type corner: big, strong, athletic and smart. I also like the RB choices, and the big guard we picked in the fifth round, Marcus Cannon- 360 pounds! Anyways, I'm definitely excited for this upcoming <strike>lockout</strike> season.</li>
</ul><ul><li>I was surprised that Miami and Buffalo didn't grab a QB in the first few rounds, not that I'm complaining about it. Playing four games against Ryan Fitzpatrick and Chad Henne is like deciding between Brooklyn Decker and Bar Refaeli- automatic win. </li>
</ul><ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZT7U_w7DBaj8fSldemnYPwyvFN5kETErozvoSyUGfYOH_xzg0OZplc_2e4S8cqYDu72XlahfhZvnlRQ_T-VLVi7mG0Xzq_Pzg8Ft18dbcZd7pCLEclPPUGw8qlga09EwfQhG0L1tFBg/s1600/DECKERREFAELIimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZT7U_w7DBaj8fSldemnYPwyvFN5kETErozvoSyUGfYOH_xzg0OZplc_2e4S8cqYDu72XlahfhZvnlRQ_T-VLVi7mG0Xzq_Pzg8Ft18dbcZd7pCLEclPPUGw8qlga09EwfQhG0L1tFBg/s1600/DECKERREFAELIimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100 percent an excuse to google image "Brooklyn Decker with Bar Refaeli"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><li>What do you get when you put together a superb rotation and and one of the most feared lineups in the game? Apparently, a 14-17 record. Good for worst in the American League. Congratulations Red Sox! You did what no one thought was possible! You added two in-their-prime superstars to your third place team, and you actually became worse! I love being a Red Sox fan right now.</li>
</ul><ul><li>I have to give props to the Cleveland Indians. No one gave you a chance, you are in Cleveland, and you somehow have the best record in the league. Enjoy it while it lasts. Oh, and you're welcome for Justin Masterson.</li>
</ul><br />
HOCKEY ALERT! HOCKEY ALERT! (I'm giving you a chance to get out now)<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaZJPBtmzWvUdPShrP-ZSSe69dadhJ7_33WuH-HmFROO-Sb0Zlef44w_g8Z-ZN3BJ7zYAPxexFXSRIXapnVLPt3pSbg1G60KdCDFkCMiTQ8PdIi_EVm1dXGEcPx5ZNDeFjS3O20dDTEk/s1600/TimThomasimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDaZJPBtmzWvUdPShrP-ZSSe69dadhJ7_33WuH-HmFROO-Sb0Zlef44w_g8Z-ZN3BJ7zYAPxexFXSRIXapnVLPt3pSbg1G60KdCDFkCMiTQ8PdIi_EVm1dXGEcPx5ZNDeFjS3O20dDTEk/s200/TimThomasimages.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Flyers worst nightmare</td></tr>
</tbody></table><ul><li> I must say, these NHL playoffs have been freaking incredible. It feels like every game is going into overtime, and watching the Bruins play these past few weeks has been, dare I say it, thrilling. The way these guys are flying around the ice, playing every game like a game 7, is very refreshing to see. Nathan Horton, David Krejci, Tim Thomas, Patrice Bergeron. They have all been awesome. Assuming, wrongfully after what happened last year, that we finish off the Flyers, I may just, possibly, slightly, start to get back into hockey again. And you know what? I'm excited as hell.</li>
</ul><br />
ONE LAST THING:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6EWRPhxj06toe34Lek4k7mMjhW0reijEqysg8dqedJSIlkNAn3CxhUW_4fimHNDPDo_LdWuw3KrjPHxwR-L1-c0yZbR5SPWk2ZVMCulJ_sMbOSSHwRGMSOSRktWjtQl-8KAuMdGsBXeE/s1600/FLAGimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6EWRPhxj06toe34Lek4k7mMjhW0reijEqysg8dqedJSIlkNAn3CxhUW_4fimHNDPDo_LdWuw3KrjPHxwR-L1-c0yZbR5SPWk2ZVMCulJ_sMbOSSHwRGMSOSRktWjtQl-8KAuMdGsBXeE/s1600/FLAGimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FREEDOM</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I'm extremely proud to be an American, and I salute all the men and women who put their lives on the line for the safety of our country. I want to take this time just to remind you that no matter how passionate you are about sports, or how much love you have for your favorite team or player, it is just a game.<br />
<br />
Let's not forget who the real heroes are.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NaRTT-ClBZ1lTB508KaCmRxQ9OIP9vJnfMNZSqJkYOHZJTufoB8p_d0JyRnp-lwuH343dGcyAoAfEy_7xoRydZi8nPFcRg9jZYX0JtKaoMdPr3Az0OoMiwbd4E-I5tM6QeirUafKQLk/s1600/SOLDIERimages.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NaRTT-ClBZ1lTB508KaCmRxQ9OIP9vJnfMNZSqJkYOHZJTufoB8p_d0JyRnp-lwuH343dGcyAoAfEy_7xoRydZi8nPFcRg9jZYX0JtKaoMdPr3Az0OoMiwbd4E-I5tM6QeirUafKQLk/s1600/SOLDIERimages.jpg" /></a></div>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-77948799960927465632011-04-21T12:40:00.000-04:002011-04-21T12:40:14.388-04:002011 NBA Playoffs: Where Magic Happens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_2ipD2_n0EfxQvX-828To7_teurk_NO7EJN6BQ8Dz3tKUr7esPCuJ6TDWwHm183bcvArmcQChmVcuX4l-Cj_ZAlMd04Kts2mCn_QZX51ds7aciASsl0Z-2B9femAL3FRwBfX9FByzJw/s1600/TOPimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_2ipD2_n0EfxQvX-828To7_teurk_NO7EJN6BQ8Dz3tKUr7esPCuJ6TDWwHm183bcvArmcQChmVcuX4l-Cj_ZAlMd04Kts2mCn_QZX51ds7aciASsl0Z-2B9femAL3FRwBfX9FByzJw/s400/TOPimages.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These Playoffs have been fannnnnnnnnntastic!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Before we get to the Celtics, let's get something straight: the NBA playoffs have been magnificent so far and have a chance to be one of the most entertaining postseasons the NBA has seen in a while.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHKeBLjLg5-Q05iyIaID74ZybUXHpi2AAF495p4F9wmJRAXdH4RPnMoJsO5p-uABsKofMxQsv_tsmhWHssG0pB9ZlQ9pTjLI_qHAwNYwz0GoxIlNMNHA5LgPZkkY1wm8r9qXf_eELs0M/s1600/BEstplayersimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHKeBLjLg5-Q05iyIaID74ZybUXHpi2AAF495p4F9wmJRAXdH4RPnMoJsO5p-uABsKofMxQsv_tsmhWHssG0pB9ZlQ9pTjLI_qHAwNYwz0GoxIlNMNHA5LgPZkkY1wm8r9qXf_eELs0M/s1600/BEstplayersimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a star studded league, and we are reaping the benefits</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table> With a surplus of superstars scattered across the league, unpredictability has been the overarching theme of this years playoffs. Fans were treated to game one stunners in San Antonio and LA (the first time in NBA history that the number one and two seeds <i>both</i> lost a game one in the first round), as well as a bunch of other hyper-competitive games that came down to the last minute of play. In fact, Elias Sports Bureau reported that in the first eight games of this postseason, there have already been five games in which a team overcame a double digit deficit to win (OKC, Memphis, Chicago, Miami and Boston), whereas there were only eleven of these types of games all of last postseason, spanning <i>eighty two</i> games.<br />
<br />
Wow. Seems like we are in for a hell of a treat.<br />
<br />
Let's quickly check in on each of the eight series of round one:<br />
<br />
San Antonio vs. Memphis (tied 1-1):<br />
<br />
The Grizzlies stole game one* in Texas after nearly blowing what seemed like a sure victory. Matt Bonner drained two big time trey bombs to bring San Antonio back, but Memphis won the game after Shane Battier- one of the sneakier deadline additions this season- swished a clutch three to put the Grizz on top for good. It was the franchise's first playoff victory. Game two swung back to the three time champion Duncan-led Spurs, who may be one of the weakest 60 win teams in NBA history. They are getting hammered down low by Zach Randolph and the other Gasol, and are having trouble doing anything offensively. Memphis has a real chance to win this series. (*Manu Ginobili, probably San Antonio's best player, and definitely their best fourth quarter scorer, sat out game one)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTzOXzuJQt5emDzfyPolHq_c-G7DF0HZlFkVI9jvtvpfOAMDvsuEowik_Y01LSrKwEpKOW3AH6YSTMlgNBtYAqj8KKG7gZ2Cw5LuXSdC0BZQYA_nmOleFzRlTTN2ERASkjseqkC-xUDXM/s1600/PAULimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTzOXzuJQt5emDzfyPolHq_c-G7DF0HZlFkVI9jvtvpfOAMDvsuEowik_Y01LSrKwEpKOW3AH6YSTMlgNBtYAqj8KKG7gZ2Cw5LuXSdC0BZQYA_nmOleFzRlTTN2ERASkjseqkC-xUDXM/s1600/PAULimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Los Angeles vs. New Orleans (tied 1-1):<br />
<br />
After Chris Paul's virtuoso performance in game one (33-7-14 with 4 steals to boot), everyone was jumping on the Hornets' bandwagon. But after New Orleans' miserable game two performance (39% fg, 63% ft), people started to remember why New Orleans was considered the weakest link in the Western Conference playoffs. Despite Kobe and Pau combining for a meager 19-8-2, New Orleans was barely able to keep up with the gigantic front line of Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum. If Paul can get back on track (he had trouble getting open looks in game 2 against bigger defenders), the Hornets have a chance, but you have to think that the Lakers are going to get out of this slump sooner rather than later.<br />
[Total sidenote that has nothing to do with anything but I feel is my obligation to share. For everyone who hated Sasha Vujacic, this video proves that even from him, some good can come:<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTyReubo_FY">3 Year Old LOVES Sasha "Machine" Vujacic</a><br />
One of the greatest videos I have ever seen. Honestly, how can a kid come away from an NBA game and think that SASHA VUJACIC is the best player- granted, it was a Nets game? I'm officially worried about where the world is headed.]<br />
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<br />
<br />
Dallas vs. Portland (Dallas 2-0):<br />
<br />
After practically everyone (including me) wrote off the Mavs following their putrid late-season performance, they have really quieted the critics with a strong win in game one behind the veteran leadership of Jason Kidd (oldest player to hit 6 threes in a playoff game) and Dirk Nowitzki (tied Jordan for most free throws made in a playoff quarter with 13 in the 4th), and a convincing win in game two. Portland needs to win game three to have any sort of chance in this series, but it's looking more and more like the Mavericks will be advancing to round two before LA or San Antonio.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tGD5oO9V40ccQkj0eQSus1sJuW5IU21EiNoDWNllBNfMcU_sKmt57gkgq7xT5iaMbSTLkbiysAb-_eQhrRgdCkiQ7XHdSRLQjAvjC0HR_Nt5spUwKmRvbFtX_ZJsQsGAVe88p-sqiFI/s1600/THUNDER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tGD5oO9V40ccQkj0eQSus1sJuW5IU21EiNoDWNllBNfMcU_sKmt57gkgq7xT5iaMbSTLkbiysAb-_eQhrRgdCkiQ7XHdSRLQjAvjC0HR_Nt5spUwKmRvbFtX_ZJsQsGAVe88p-sqiFI/s1600/THUNDER.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Absolutely ANYTHING</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Oklahoma City vs. Denver (OKC 2-0):<br />
<br />
It's really too bad because Denver is a fun team to watch and a great story. But Oklahoma City is just too much for them to handle. In game one, OKC relied on Westbrook in the first half, and Durant (25 2nd half points) in the second half, to win a tight, controversial contest. Former Celtics player Kendrick Perkins tipped in a Westbrook miss to give OKC a lead with a minute to go (replays seemed to indicate that it was offensive goaltending and the basket should NOT have counted), and Denver never recovered. OKC, firing on all cylinders in game 2, destroyed Denver 106-89. OKC continues to be the trendy pick to usurp the power in the Western Conference from the Lakers, with its unbelievable display of scoring, size, athleticism and experience (despite it's youth, OKC has players who know how to win big games, Perkins won a title as a starter in 08', and Westbrook and Durant led Team USA to a Title in the World Championships this past summer). Look for OKC to take care of business in Denver.<br />
<br />
Chicago vs. Indiana (Chicago 2-0):<br />
<br />
After completely blowing game one (up ten with 3:30 to go), Indiana may have ruined it's chance to upset the consensus title-favorite Bulls. Give credit to Chicago for not panicking, and to Derrick Rose for putting on yet another phenomenal performance to lead the comeback. With Rose playing at such a high level, and with Thibodeau's defensive genius, knocking off Chicago will be an extremely tough task this postseason. The only question with them is if they will get enough from the <i>other</i> guys to keep up with the likes of Miami, Boston and LA. Only time will tell.<br />
<br />
Miami vs. Philadelphia (Miami 2-0):<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlkpe6QOB-UWg_cndhjMEinRftS-UmbjMtsqHizXciQ2kx82XhhloupfxnVtN7dIIxOnHFutqqwdenGoxQrNRldV68frdnifekV_3W6Cx0m0JtZJisor9s5ih-f920-_WwolEU2A1GD0/s1600/THREECLOWNSimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlkpe6QOB-UWg_cndhjMEinRftS-UmbjMtsqHizXciQ2kx82XhhloupfxnVtN7dIIxOnHFutqqwdenGoxQrNRldV68frdnifekV_3W6Cx0m0JtZJisor9s5ih-f920-_WwolEU2A1GD0/s200/THREECLOWNSimages.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally living up to expectations? Or Bust?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After Philly gave Miami a run for its money in game one, Miami has basically taken control of the series. There is no way a team led by Wade and Bron blows a 2-0 lead to an inexperienced Sixers squad. <br />
<br />
Orlando vs. Atlanta (tied 1-1):<br />
<br />
Watching this series is like watching "Ripley's Believe it or Not." Dwight Howard's complete evisceration of Atlanta's frontcourt has been the single reason why anybody, anywhere (including Atlanta and Orlando) would watch this series. That, and Dwight Howard's shoulders.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh455rxN4yWOEjVED8Q-uZhMaOgzuBXBXrHhFffr7osy24zdUPzuJgHTS3Bj41jTD1bEcj-bCbtnjZyMFnzgPn5reLfHbH4w9YK6mBFNoIEvkh7UX0IQQeQDVgahT0QjIpoOMeKtFa1uA0/s1600/HOWARDimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh455rxN4yWOEjVED8Q-uZhMaOgzuBXBXrHhFffr7osy24zdUPzuJgHTS3Bj41jTD1bEcj-bCbtnjZyMFnzgPn5reLfHbH4w9YK6mBFNoIEvkh7UX0IQQeQDVgahT0QjIpoOMeKtFa1uA0/s1600/HOWARDimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Extra-Terrestrial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>[I can see it now: "Next on Ripley's, we look into what went wrong in game one when Howard submitted a 46-19 and still lost. One bystander blamed it on zombies (Gilbert Arenas) and ghosts (Hedo Turkoglu), while another said he saw dead bodies (J-Rich, and everyone on the Magic bench). Also, we look into claims that Dwight Howard is actually an alien.]<br />
<br />
Boston vs. New York (Boston 2-0):<br />
<br />
So first of all, hell yes. Any time I see Boston 2, New York 0, in anything, it makes me happy. OK, well where do we start? The Celtics aren't winning pretty, but they are winning, and they are going to keep chugging along until they face a superior opponent. New York is not superior (this was a general New York, and a specific, Knicks) to Boston. The Celtics are battled tested veterans who, when the playoffs roll around, sort of pick their spots against inferior teams. Look back to 08', when the inexperienced Hawks improbably took the C's to 7 games. We closed them out when we needed to. Against better teams like the Cavs and Pistons, the C's seemed to play a lot better. I guess that's what happens when you are a veteran team. You understand the importance of the moment. You get up for big games. You elevate your play when the stage gets bigger. That's what the Celtics did in 08', and that's what they did last year. It can't be a coincidence that Celtics teams in the Big Three era have all jumped to fantastic starts, only to fade after Christmas. They "flipped the switch." Go ask Gregg Popovich or Tim Duncan to explain it to you. Although the Celtics haven't been flashy, in fact, they haven't even really been all that good in either of these first two games, they have gotten the W. And that's the thing. The Celtics don't even have to be that good to get past the first round. They are still rounding into form, still tinkering with minutes and rotations, still getting healthy. The Celtics will be there in round 2, and they will be there in full force. They know the Heat are a worthy opponent. The Knicks don't belong on the same floor as these Celtics, and that is not to say that the Knicks can't win a game or two or three. It's just to say that the Celtics will buckle down when they need to, and the Knicks will not (partially because they don't know how yet, and partially because they have only three good players). The Celtics will battle the Heat, and they will battle the Bulls, and they will battle the Lakers or whoever comes out of the West. These Celtics are ABLE to play and succeed against any team in the world right now. The question remains: WILL they?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qA_GjHHAoWRG8pTYuIshEVjt6ZiMEWlQ_iMXO44mG7O3xJltCMM_RXmPnJKqFQKK5xHM2im4wexkA9JM4cpM3zX_owrXbvefAg8FuuDwGKxG36MRWYkpmRCHj6bPft4kh0Q721_FgJY/s1600/WillingandABlEimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qA_GjHHAoWRG8pTYuIshEVjt6ZiMEWlQ_iMXO44mG7O3xJltCMM_RXmPnJKqFQKK5xHM2im4wexkA9JM4cpM3zX_owrXbvefAg8FuuDwGKxG36MRWYkpmRCHj6bPft4kh0Q721_FgJY/s1600/WillingandABlEimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What are we?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-56083278254110766132011-03-11T12:58:00.000-05:002011-03-11T12:58:22.392-05:00Resilient Heat on the right track<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkge7J-gC3DTevDz-SHN3ffx_lQqE8vXwkqWqQrCJWYjw_OOBkcfCwaU3f9TtSqxw1DH15_z9a8YwtfkmoKsh7gABvBS5xfT-mhyCpj0qQ1wB-9thz8EPV_lySYb-YEjhFlcxk90Le93o/s1600/tunnel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkge7J-gC3DTevDz-SHN3ffx_lQqE8vXwkqWqQrCJWYjw_OOBkcfCwaU3f9TtSqxw1DH15_z9a8YwtfkmoKsh7gABvBS5xfT-mhyCpj0qQ1wB-9thz8EPV_lySYb-YEjhFlcxk90Le93o/s1600/tunnel.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe, just maybe, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for Heat fans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Listen, I hate them as much as you. I especially hate LeBron. But what the Heat showed last night in their thrilling win over the Lake Show was remarkable. They showed heart, they showed grit, and they showed the ability to not only take the punches, but punch back. The Heat gave the world a glimpse of a bright future while making a statement- don't count us out quite yet.<br />
<br />
With LeBron and Wade somewhat struggling, Chris Bosh and the Heat bench picked up the slack (I honestly never thought I would write those ten words. Ever.) and provided viewers with some great basketball. After being ripped on by everyone for not being clutch, and for not being able to win tight games against elite teams, the Heat played their most impressive game of the season. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-2XkJ_9xCNvnlq6zpHefr9HRkVwbfZS1JhzLDdl86DxouTjxBomcVc9Pn9Zq4jsbKQh1uIaTlng7au9FJLQghgNthQpx5lrogPtW1uK94p9Q5qnc2Q7MFGqLmDKyQWdirita8NhrCTs/s1600/2halfmen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-2XkJ_9xCNvnlq6zpHefr9HRkVwbfZS1JhzLDdl86DxouTjxBomcVc9Pn9Zq4jsbKQh1uIaTlng7au9FJLQghgNthQpx5lrogPtW1uK94p9Q5qnc2Q7MFGqLmDKyQWdirita8NhrCTs/s200/2halfmen.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bron, Wade and Bosh's corpse...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Was it their best game? No.<br />
<br />
But if someone told you that the Heat won a game against the hottest team in the NBA, the back to back champion Lakers (kill me now) with LeBron and Wade combining to go 16-40 from the field (just 1-7 on threes) and hit just 6 free throws, you would probably die of laughter. But with Chris "like a Bosh" leading the way, and with some help from the two Mikes (Bibby and Miller), the Heat prevailed.<br />
<br />
They finally played a game with some cohesion. They played like a team. They didn't beat the Lakers because of the Big Two and a Half, rather, they won because the "other" guys stepped up to the challenge (for once) and played with a purpose. Guys did their jobs. All Miami wanted from Mike Bibby and Mike Miller is that they drain their open treys, and that they not be completely pathetic on the defensive end.<br />
<br />
It finally happened, and it was magical.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAVnkW5-UKg9lCRFlbxItsJDJsS2WxGnVNubB7ys0XdV-PUUmejHFvVrO-24Fh-BazMR5uCQNdcVlw4rzOWktX4hY41qeqUy6tUDZAi8R3JfGUWFPU_qD_XzztWrjJz1rAcX-32A9CyE/s1600/Jennings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAVnkW5-UKg9lCRFlbxItsJDJsS2WxGnVNubB7ys0XdV-PUUmejHFvVrO-24Fh-BazMR5uCQNdcVlw4rzOWktX4hY41qeqUy6tUDZAi8R3JfGUWFPU_qD_XzztWrjJz1rAcX-32A9CyE/s200/Jennings.jpg" width="169" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wade took a page out of the Greg Jennings playbook</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It's amazing what happens when you play a game with five guys instead of three. If Erik Spoelstra had a brain inside of his head (totally debatable at this point), he would set up games the same way that this one was set up: let LeBron and Bosh dominate the first three quarters and then hand the reigns over to Wade in the fourth. This is clearly the best way for Coach Spo' to deploy his soldiers. If the Heat can get anything (literally, ANYTHING) from the bench, they are going to be the team that everyone thought they would be when the Three Clowns came together during last summer's circus. LeBron and Bosh can do what they do best- wreak havoc for three quarters (note: an NBA game is four quarters) and Wade can do what he does best- put the team on his shoulders for the all-important fourth quarter. Spoelstra mistakenly believed that LeBron shows up at the end of games. In the past week, I think he finally got fed up with the LeBrick show.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7szHbASHqe1JDXKFnxcwQKbxBQo502LzBPTK2A1Jy3hs1SPAf_89SBUWB3kfJkPyKv-j-ajud5nUsJW_pdAYCDdr3yubBHuZTEnwr7KqD6cbSeNXPV3_u1aM4b3i8kIgyq5TVwf1DdU/s1600/Brick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7szHbASHqe1JDXKFnxcwQKbxBQo502LzBPTK2A1Jy3hs1SPAf_89SBUWB3kfJkPyKv-j-ajud5nUsJW_pdAYCDdr3yubBHuZTEnwr7KqD6cbSeNXPV3_u1aM4b3i8kIgyq5TVwf1DdU/s1600/Brick.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breaking News: LeBron is building a new brick house in South Beach</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Now, it's Wade's turn. His steal against Kobe last night in the closing minutes was simply phenomenal. Wade's ensuing dive and pass to LeBron for the slam was a mesmerizing show of effort, skill and determination.<br />
<br />
He wasn't done- 30 seconds later, he broke Kobe's ankles with a gorgeous crossover and then finished an extremely difficult lay-in over seven footer Pau Gasol to put the nail in the coffin.<br />
<br />
Wade is everything that LeBron and Bosh are not, and for Miami Heat fans, that is a good thing.Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-63200949064416509812011-02-10T18:04:00.002-05:002011-02-13T12:28:19.078-05:00Celtics the perfect cure for ailing hearts<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8O5aqHNeQRFN6CyR221LoUdqyKnaojJH2dI3JNYDX8VObo66pxBPa0bAxAqqSIh6nkOTzO2wKvqb102zLSRAXoKuBRCvU7HncMOUt3Qf6AI2LLNiWaXBJyMA3qvN7aQwvP6GL-NkDMes/s1600/disaster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8O5aqHNeQRFN6CyR221LoUdqyKnaojJH2dI3JNYDX8VObo66pxBPa0bAxAqqSIh6nkOTzO2wKvqb102zLSRAXoKuBRCvU7HncMOUt3Qf6AI2LLNiWaXBJyMA3qvN7aQwvP6GL-NkDMes/s320/disaster.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Patriots playoff run was an unmitigated disaster.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tom Brady and Bill Belichick are great. Not good, great. Hell, they might be the best of all time at what they do. But there has been something terribly, <i>terribly</i> wrong with them recently.<br />
<br />
They can't finish.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_yiAY3a9Y6LmqQHst63zpuq-MhdJdIXHselaSOKIi0Z6ot30eEGOAa8ywKiEatkrnbUQVyhkKL6ZHXC0tLylG3k4lXG15C7BfVG13xdPV91GbTNHaqJBhzTVT1-BNm6rhOD-CW9rsTjc/s1600/connolly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_yiAY3a9Y6LmqQHst63zpuq-MhdJdIXHselaSOKIi0Z6ot30eEGOAa8ywKiEatkrnbUQVyhkKL6ZHXC0tLylG3k4lXG15C7BfVG13xdPV91GbTNHaqJBhzTVT1-BNm6rhOD-CW9rsTjc/s1600/connolly.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pats 4th Quarter drive was slower than Conolly's return</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I don't know why the Patriots looked like all-world beaters during the regular season and then got smothered by a team they beat by 42 just 6 weeks earlier. I don't know why Tom Brady looked like he was playing with a 103 fever (maybe he was?). No yelling. No excitement. No passion. I don't know why the Patriots fourth quarter drive was moving slower than Dan Connolly on his legendary kickoff return against the Super Bowl Champion Packers in Week 15. And lastly I don't know why, after not giving up the "big play" all year, after the Patriots had finally taken back momentum with Tom Brady's laser to Alge Crumpler (and Sammy Morris' Kevin Falk-like direct snap 2 pt. conversion), the Patriots defense allowed Jerricho Cotchery to catch a five yard crossing pattern and run all the way to the seven yard line for a 58 yard gain. That was the killer right there. All the momentum went poof, and it was a two-score game the rest of the way. Obviously, Brady's INT on the first drive was awful, Crumpler's TD drop on the second drive was huge, and that fake-punt (which turned into a NYJ TD) was mindbogglingly stupid, but we were still in it in the fourth quarter, and that Cotchery play really took the air out of the Patriots balloon.<br />
<br />
I've mostly had enough talking about that god-forsaken game. I just want to talk about a few more factors which should prevent this from happening next season (located on the poll on the right):<br />
<br />
1) Being realistic. Maybe we weren't as good as our 14-2 record indicated. We certainly were a very, very good team. But you need to have some specific traits to be successful in the playoffs. Particularly, you need a play-making defense, and a consistent and multi-layered offensive attack (throw long, throw short, run short, run long etc.). You also have to make smart managerial decisions. Unfortunately, the Pats did little of any of those things. The defense, which made plays all year, did a great job of keeping the game in range for the New England offense, but was unable to force any turnovers against a young, inaccurate QB (whom they intercepted 4 times in the 45-3 thrashing). The offense, normally unstoppable, was completely stagnant. Even the great Danny Woodhead was held in check with a paltry 3.3 yard per rush average (after averaging more than 5.5 YPR during the regular season). Brady was pressured like never before during the season except for maybe the San Diego game, and like that San Diego game, the offense was flat. And lastly, there was the obvious managerial dropping of the ball with that Patrick Chung fake punt call. I mean what the @U#* was that!! We haven't done a fake punt in years, at least none that I can remember. And we decide to do one in our own territory, with 50 seconds left in the half of a low scoring game! WHY?! ARGHHHHHH. Gimme a second while I blowtorch my eyes out.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAz4zJ-GvQiLwIX0WXWe_EhuVcqZfJU2P865CR1Bl5MZIUGQkAaHDERi8OcRF5Gcj-O1aUaBMA5o9PfsXIEjbP9yRO7K7pEE78KIElF_hXLqQNNHKk46iRcSukk3L3tuH6pR7Vkrb0_6c/s1600/fake+punt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAz4zJ-GvQiLwIX0WXWe_EhuVcqZfJU2P865CR1Bl5MZIUGQkAaHDERi8OcRF5Gcj-O1aUaBMA5o9PfsXIEjbP9yRO7K7pEE78KIElF_hXLqQNNHKk46iRcSukk3L3tuH6pR7Vkrb0_6c/s1600/fake+punt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WHY!!!!! CATCH THE DAMN BALL!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>2) Don't get outplayed/outcoached. I think everyone would agree that we didn't deserve to win that game. We got outplayed, outworked and outcoached. Rex Ryan had a great game plan. The Jets D did a great job of executing the game plan, and they overall just looked like they wanted it more. The Pats have to start playing with more passion in these kinds of games.<br />
<br />
3) More experience. Lets be honest. This team has a ton of rookies: 4-5 starters on defense, the punter, and 1-2 on offense. The inexperience on defense was especially evident during the Jets game. Next year though, I would imagine there will be less nerves, and more plays made (zero sacks/interceptions/fumble recoveries in Jets game).<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPZEOQQVwD_FYgfUdm2JSHMwTuqgHZfZCpxdYPAqkxtT8M4miKkLCSqxWyXs2CWABXOrTc0hwaMAnLtZM2srl33sbjMxuVRPxb-IHw_Xa-h2ZcY-cXi5iwS5pQQ8ga0QU1IT-NruEAgSo/s1600/seymour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPZEOQQVwD_FYgfUdm2JSHMwTuqgHZfZCpxdYPAqkxtT8M4miKkLCSqxWyXs2CWABXOrTc0hwaMAnLtZM2srl33sbjMxuVRPxb-IHw_Xa-h2ZcY-cXi5iwS5pQQ8ga0QU1IT-NruEAgSo/s200/seymour.jpg" width="143" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe trading #92 was a mistake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>4) Where the hell was the pass rush!?! OK Bill. We have had enough with this 3-4, sit back, relax and enjoy the show bull$#!% defense. We want a pass rusher. No. We NEED a pass rusher. When you let Richard Seymour go, we said OK, because we thought Oakland's number 1 pick would be a top 5 or 10 pick. No, we got screwed. It is a number 17. Now the onus is on you to find us a pass rusher. Until we get one, we will not be able to take the pressure off of our young, inexperienced secondary. We will continue to be one of the worst third down defenses in the NFL. We will continue to lose in the playoffs. Get it done.<br />
<br />
5) Where is the next Corey Dillon? Listen, I am a huge believer in BJGE. I love the guy. 13 rushing touchdowns, 1000 yards rushing, and no fumbles. And I love Woody Woodhead just as much as everyone else, but we need a more <i>talented </i>running back. We need someone who can take some of the pressure off of Brady. The teams that beat the Patriots are the ones that mix coverages and get pressure with the front four. We need to get the Patriots back to being a balanced offense. Brady had an astonishing 143 QB rating on play-action passes this season. When the run game is working, Brady is at his best which means the offense is at its best. Lets get back to that. We need to be able to finish games on the ground. In the past few years, especially against the Colts, we have done a terrible job of running time off the clock with a lead in the fourth quarter. We need that RB who will kill the clock.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSfFFOYGKuHZmBwB6NabrO9I3IAwbfq2T2f3UXdJJ49EMIz3lXmT3ObBye7vuPRENOdcTlJYGDiXaEqO6nep_DWLoffGv2D4W1SjoU1wlCBdFbiKEjZ9y7k73Le5Gnd8rrQbPTKfxJTc/s1600/silverlining.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="109" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSfFFOYGKuHZmBwB6NabrO9I3IAwbfq2T2f3UXdJJ49EMIz3lXmT3ObBye7vuPRENOdcTlJYGDiXaEqO6nep_DWLoffGv2D4W1SjoU1wlCBdFbiKEjZ9y7k73Le5Gnd8rrQbPTKfxJTc/s200/silverlining.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At least we have a ton of draft picks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>6) We will be better. Besides for Tom Brady, Matt Light and Dan Koppen, most of the key players on this team are entering their prime, or haven't reached it yet. We are also getting back some key players: starting CB Leigh Bodden, starting DE Ty Warren, starting K Stephen Gostkowski, S Brandon McGowan, starting RG Nick Kaczur and a healthier Wes Welker. Not to mention the maturation of all of the rookies. Mike Reiss always says that the biggest jump in production and development in players comes between year 1 and year 2 of a player's career. Lets hope so!<br />
<br />
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<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhzOq6QnV3KwImy2XWgaZx3L7Ot55R6Q38FCwi5F3wpkFi8-JrCysVEXJPFdSIeP8SbwU_exEDPrNwXY1jGB4i1aunU0IT6eXn7J_mhfmmyBiInOnJLLIdi3FS9c4yIPAsY9Ho5dmtdk/s1600/lakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhzOq6QnV3KwImy2XWgaZx3L7Ot55R6Q38FCwi5F3wpkFi8-JrCysVEXJPFdSIeP8SbwU_exEDPrNwXY1jGB4i1aunU0IT6eXn7J_mhfmmyBiInOnJLLIdi3FS9c4yIPAsY9Ho5dmtdk/s200/lakers.jpg" width="154" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I never want to see this again.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Before I literally commit suicide, lets talk about the reason I am able to write this column again. After the heartbreaking loss to the goddamn, trash talking, bunch of invalids everyone calls the New York Jets, I was a depressed sports fan. Yes, we have won tons of championships this century. We have the two World Series wins, the three Super Bowl wins and of course the Celtics championship in 08'. We also have tons of heartbreak. I don't want to go into detail, but lets just say that since the Patriots lost in one of the most stunning upsets in Super Bowl history, there have been some awful playoff losses in Titletown, USA. Game 7 defeats have become the norm. Tom Brady can't get past the first round, and we lost a 3-2 series lead against the hated, arch rival LA Lakers last season after the devastating ACL injury to Kendrick Perkins in game 6.<br />
<br />
But this years Celtics team has lifted my spirits. When healthy (which will probably never happen, but just let me dream for a minute) this is arguably one of the greatest teams 1 through 12 of any team in the history of the NBA. I don't want to hear all of you who are saying to yourself, "you are INSANE! They haven't won anything yet! They don't even have the best record in the league this year! How could they possibly be one of the best teams of all time?!?!" Well, if you look at it that way, then yes. This team is not one of the best ever. But it sure as hell <i>could</i> be. This team is 12 deep, with absolutely no holes (Sorry, Brad). Our second unit (when healthy) could probably beat half of the teams in the NBA right now. Our starting 5 has never lost a playoff series together. We have tons of experience, and absolutely ridiculous depth.<br />
<br />
In this year's NBA, there is a large crop of great teams, there are the Celtics, Heat, Spurs, Lakers, Magic, Bulls and Mavericks. This year is shaping up like the NBA seasons of the 80's and early 90's, where there is just a ton of talent all across the league, and about 5 or 6 teams that have a legitimate chance to win it all. After what happened with the Patriots, I won't get my hopes up too high, but I do have a really, really good feeling about this Celtics squad.<br />
<br />
Now that we are more than halfway through the season, let's take a look at each member of the Celtics superb starting 5, and how they are faring.<br />
<br />
Rajon Rondo: Rondo hasn't been playing as well since his nasty looking ankle injury against the Knicks a month ago, but in the past week or so, he has looked much, much better. He makes this team go. Recently, he has been attacking the hoop with reckless abandon and the results have been fantastic. People weren't so awed by Rondo's big time assist numbers at the beginning of the year, because people were claiming that he would pass up open layups for assists. Not anymore. He has been very aggressive on offense, while maintaining his usual defensive intensity. Him and KG might be the most pesky 1-2 defensive punch on any team in the NBA. I mean, these guys knock away passes left and right, they cause so many deflections. I can only imagine how frustrating it is to try and run an offense when half the passes you make are getting tipped away. Last year I didn't think Rondo would be able to lead a team that wasn't loaded with superstars (meaning: I didn't think he could lead his own team. I thought he was a result of the Celtics system), but after seeing him this year, I think he could do anything. He needs to be teamed with a scorer and big man, but he really has the ability to do anything at this point. He can drive, he can shoot, he can get to the line, he plays great defense and he is extremely vocal on the court. He's going to be great for a long time.<br />
<br />
Ray Allen: There really isn't much to say about Ray. He is efficient as ever. He gets the job done every night, and he even comes up big on the defensive end every once in a while (his defense on Kobe last week was terrific, lets see if he does it again tonight). He is the reason the offense works. Without him on the floor, the court shrinks, defenses sag off Rondo, and we flat-line on offense. With him, we are unstoppable on the fast break, and extremely efficient in the half court. Ray hitting 50 percent of his shots is a small miracle. The difficulty on some of the shots he hits is mind blowing, and he is about to turn 36 years old. He deserves the three point crown, and he's gonna get it tonight. Congrats Ray Ray.<br />
<br />
Paul Pierce: Like Ray, he has just become an efficiency machine. Shooting the best percentages of his career, and finally healthy, this is one of Paul's most impressive seasons. I was one of the people who thought that PP was in decline after last season's slow, painful regression. But luckily for us, it was just the foot injury he had that was slowing him down. He still got game.<br />
<br />
Kevin Garnett: KG's revenge tour has been absolutely thrilling to watch. All those young'ns who beat up on the raggedy KG of yesteryear are paying the price big time. He is back with a vengeance. His jump shot is hot, he drops at least one alley oop per game, and plays all-world defense every night. He is the heart and soul of this team. Like he said, "Basketball is my spine." With a healthy KG, the Celtics will make a run for an 18th title.<br />
<br />
Kendrick Perkins: Still early, but Perk looks almost back to form. There have been some times, offensively, where he hasn't really gotten the lift he is used to (which have led to some embarrassing blocked shots), but overall it is crazy how well and how fast he recovered from the aforementioned ACL tear. With Shaq, JO and Semih all out with injuries, Perk's inspired play has been huge for the Celtics the last two weeks. Bill Walton, on a recent broadcast (against the Sacramento Kings) called Perkins the least appreciated player in the league, and the most underrated. I agree that he is the least appreciated. This guy does all the dirty work. Sometimes he does too much dirty work (getting a technical almost once a week). But overall, this is a guy you want on your side. Hopefully the Celtics sign him to a long term deal this offseason, as he is going to be a free agent.<br />
<br />
<br />
Injuries have surely taken their toll on the Celtics this season, and they continue to do so, but the C's are lined up (barring another major injury. Please god, we have had enough!) to be completely healthy by the time the playoffs come around.<br />
-Marquis was fantastic as Pierce's backup, and his terrifying injury is cause for concern. Danny Ainge has mentioned that they may be looking into a trade or into signing someone to back up Pierce, because of the worry that Quis' won't be the same when he returns from that scary neck injury.<br />
-Delonte on the other hand, is almost ready to come back. When he does, look out. The Celtics have been looking for a Delonte-type player since they traded him back in 06'. If he is healthy, and remains healthy, the Celtics bench will go from OK, to very good. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz76y2e-SzY1W8mJWhnrUFJRQlIkRakb4eliLWtm6ZJVE1D4JU6QAwHl7VYLgXzecJWUQxx61tm4YbGnVi9erLXPlCqzPqZcOnu7WRv-LJhmZ0SatYBu6zO7laixkSwGU5KpP8ovxZ3E/s1600/hangover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz76y2e-SzY1W8mJWhnrUFJRQlIkRakb4eliLWtm6ZJVE1D4JU6QAwHl7VYLgXzecJWUQxx61tm4YbGnVi9erLXPlCqzPqZcOnu7WRv-LJhmZ0SatYBu6zO7laixkSwGU5KpP8ovxZ3E/s200/hangover.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lakers have a slight Championship hangover.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>-Shaq will be fine, he is just being rested (a lot) for the playoffs. Unbelievable before his hip injury, Shaq has exceeded almost everyone's expectations so far.<br />
-I don't like to talk about Jermaine O'Neal, because it just makes me upset to do so. What a waste of time and money. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting tonight, the Celtics look to begin their title chase against the hungover LA Lakers. With a little help from the basketball gods, and some minor medical miracles, hopefully we will get to witness this team in full health for an extended playoff run. And maybe, just maybe, this will go down as one of the greatest teams of all time.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SrEIApY9upmFJYuvBIpy4yopSxMW0x03C9im8KpXmq7tCSm2mXIn95DYz9EvcMv_XSO4W7K8IvJzRZbwp7AlJ9RxYmROaAsmlSAC-p4Ohgp3Iy3zbQeAcr61UMapJXV1gTbwF-1DNmk/s1600/86celts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SrEIApY9upmFJYuvBIpy4yopSxMW0x03C9im8KpXmq7tCSm2mXIn95DYz9EvcMv_XSO4W7K8IvJzRZbwp7AlJ9RxYmROaAsmlSAC-p4Ohgp3Iy3zbQeAcr61UMapJXV1gTbwF-1DNmk/s1600/86celts.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe the 2011 Boston Celtics will be held in the same regard as the great 1986 team.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-23426260730202626552010-12-17T13:25:00.001-05:002010-12-17T14:10:05.767-05:00Boston Sports: Is this heaven?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQF3yjFqI8hAkDoIEspOrVycMa117tOMk_CLS0jyNMrc7vgZspsmmVXqW7vBAP8nKMN0JS7lnlouCshSbc03M_elpj3vX017oZtTuICaM2HlbjVjfMNjkBhrBYDCGsqRoaqgPlI_3VSE/s1600/heavenimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQF3yjFqI8hAkDoIEspOrVycMa117tOMk_CLS0jyNMrc7vgZspsmmVXqW7vBAP8nKMN0JS7lnlouCshSbc03M_elpj3vX017oZtTuICaM2HlbjVjfMNjkBhrBYDCGsqRoaqgPlI_3VSE/s320/heavenimages.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this heaven?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I know, I know. I'm getting ahead of myself. <br />
<br />
We haven't accomplished anything yet <span style="font-size: small;">(Bill Belichick</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">â„¢<span style="font-size: small;">). We haven't won anything yet.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">But it feels amazing to be a Boston sports fan right now, doesn't it?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Pats are steamrolling their opponents, the Celtics are cruising despite the loss of five key players to injury, and the Red Sox are in the midst of one of the greatest (talent-wise) offseasons in team history. As a fan, what more could you ask for, right? </span></span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixooun_J8IuMYnWGLUB3hswP-Q4FfeQ0WDUclQgTjGB27QuS1B3LRxDLMBFg5ERTUh7hGwdFQmHkKSWx8r2SmqawxwqH5zid8SzF3vajQyV7Gzifop6FzqdpqrxhKCxtvqM3Wmeoh6rGc/s1600/adriangonzoimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixooun_J8IuMYnWGLUB3hswP-Q4FfeQ0WDUclQgTjGB27QuS1B3LRxDLMBFg5ERTUh7hGwdFQmHkKSWx8r2SmqawxwqH5zid8SzF3vajQyV7Gzifop6FzqdpqrxhKCxtvqM3Wmeoh6rGc/s200/adriangonzoimages.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Boston!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Well, growing up in Boston, you might ask for one more thing.</span></span> You might just ask for the destruction of all New York teams. And you know what? You might just get your wish. While the Red Sox were piling up superstar talents Adrian Gonzalez (one of my favorite hitters in the majors) and wicked fast outfielder Cahl Crawfahd (great Boston accent name), the Yankees were busy getting out-dueled (they couldn't possibly get out-bid) for the most coveted free agent pitcher this offseason- Cliff Lee.<br />
<br />
If it were just that, it would be enough. But no, we've got more.<br />
<br />
The New York Knicks have been making a lot of noise lately with their surprising 10 game winning streak led by Jewish (wink, wink) PF Amare' Stoudemire. The injury depleted Celtics took the floor at the World's Greatest Arena (according to everyone in NY. I think it's old and has terrible lighting- although the crowds there are very good), Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night- trying to protect Paul Pierce's claim that there was no rivalry between the teams. He basically told the media that the Knicks suck, so how could there possibly be a rivalry? Well, Pierce backed up his statement with an absolutely crushing game-winning jumper from, (where else?) the right elbow. The Knicks actually played pretty damn well, and they have definitely earned respect from the Celtics, but beating a New York team- especially when the fans were so excited before the game- in such dramatic fashion? Aint' nothing better.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpOK1MJq15S51PvyyUyD-Z9SOFs6m_y2qZxeVcRmmOQwL3xKigho3gNDfT6etv-AseqBA8o-WY4CcdgxrVcvmx4SSEueJ-uwPQhn5PD-RVN4i_jItuXPP1UPPWKBzqKx-K8LJAJ88R3M/s1600/newyorksucksindex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpOK1MJq15S51PvyyUyD-Z9SOFs6m_y2qZxeVcRmmOQwL3xKigho3gNDfT6etv-AseqBA8o-WY4CcdgxrVcvmx4SSEueJ-uwPQhn5PD-RVN4i_jItuXPP1UPPWKBzqKx-K8LJAJ88R3M/s1600/newyorksucksindex.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">J-E-T-S SUCK SUCK SUCK</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Well, except maybe for something I like to call the Monday Night Football Massacre. The drubbing the Pats put on the Jets 2 weeks ago? They aren't going to recover from that any time soon. They were 9-2, atop the AFC. Now? 9-4 and in serious danger of not making the playoffs. Victory tastes so sweet. Oh. What's that? You want to know the score to the game? <span style="font-size: small;">45-3. No, wait. </span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5S0PAzfl0QY7glXQCyKxN9MZQHHQ-ozos6TsnHjLuQXVsecvfaIfMmSDwsgWlf9EjA_xtEgXFzu-9-p5qqoBBg5-bA9HOftMkLrhPCZKsGPeQ-Rmqsl5S2I85sTtrX7HCZsNYucHu1oY/s1600/rexgulletimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5S0PAzfl0QY7glXQCyKxN9MZQHHQ-ozos6TsnHjLuQXVsecvfaIfMmSDwsgWlf9EjA_xtEgXFzu-9-p5qqoBBg5-bA9HOftMkLrhPCZKsGPeQ-Rmqsl5S2I85sTtrX7HCZsNYucHu1oY/s200/rexgulletimages.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks like a gullet to me</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">45-3</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">That's better. Eat that Jets fans. Let that one sit for a while. Maybe fatty Rex Ryan will shut his gullet and start teaching his players how to win a game instead of gargling on like a turkey. Mark Sanchez sucks. Santonio Holmes can't catch. Mark Sanchez sucks. I LOVE THIS.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Anyway, enough about all New York teams failing miserably at life. Lets take a closer look at the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics and predict what the future holds.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>RED SOX</u> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Last Season: 89-73, 3rd place. Didn't make Playoffs</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This Season: ??-??</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Analysis and prediction: This is going to be an extremely good Boston Red Sox team. They have fantastic hitters from both sides of the plate. They are a great defensive team. And, most importantly, they have a very good rotation (which could be great if they could get ANYTHING out of Josh Beckett and/or John Lackey). The bullpen isn't dominant, but the addition of Bobby Jenks certainly helps what was the Red Sox's biggest problem last season. Obviously, like any team, they need to stay healthy. Luckily, they will get Kevin Youkilis and Dustin Pedroia back after both missed extended time last year with tricky injuries. I don't see how any team can beat the Sox in a playoff series, but then again, the Yankees haven't finished "shopping" this winter, so we really don't know what we are up against. For now, I'll say (barring injury) this team should at least have the best record in the AL, and they should be back in the World Series fighting for another title. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Celtics</u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u> </u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u> </u>Last Season: 50-32, 4th in the Eastern Conference. Lost an excruciating Game 7 in LA.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This Season: 21-4, 1st in the Eastern Conference. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Analysis and Prediction: Health. Health. Health. If only the Celtics were healthy! Lets say, best case scenario, everyone is healthy for the playoffs. What a freakin' team that would be. They would have the best starting 5 (Rondo, Allen, Pierce, Garnett, Perkins- tied with the Lakers) in the league, and the best second starting 5 (Delonte, Nate, Marquis, Baby, Shaq)- with Jermaine O'neal and Semih "Automatic" Erden still on the bench! Are you kidding me? The depth on this team is otherworldly. And thank god for it, because they need every last guy right now. With Rondo, Delonte, JO, Shaq and Perk sidelined, the C's have turned to 3rd and 4th stringers to pick up the slack. The result? A 12 game winning streak (and counting...) aided by the rebirth of both defensive maestro KG and, to a lesser extent, captain Paul Pierce. As long as they stay relatively healthy they should be in the top 2 or 3 seeds in the East. If, and that is a huge if, they are fully healthy for the playoffs, I don't see anyone stopping them. I think they win the title over LA. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Patriots</u> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u> </u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u> </u>Last Season: 10-6, 3rd in AFC, 1st in East. Smoked in the first round bye Baltimore.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This Season: 11-2, 1st in AFC, 1st in East.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-size: small;">Analysis and Prediction: Wow. That is all I have to say about the Patriots' recent performances, or should I say executions, against the Jets and Bears. The Pats are coming together right in time for the stretch run. With a victory against the Rodger-less (that's what the papers are saying, no one really knows 100 percent yet: via Simmons' twitter- <a href="http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/111973654.html">http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/111973654.html</a>) Packers, the Pats will all but have wrapped up the number 1 seed in the AFC, needing only a win against the Bills or Dolphins to secure home-field throughout the playoffs. Wouldn't that be sweet. Reminds me of the 2003-2004 Patriots teams: 14-2 and the number one seed. Let me just say this: if the Pats continue playing like they are right now, no one is going to beat them. Not the Falcons, Eagles, Ravens, Chargers or Saints. No one. They are dominant. They are relentless. And most of all, they are proving everyone wrong.They are on a mission to bring the Lombardi Trophy back to its rightful place. Bill Belichick and Tom Brady have been brilliant this season, and they are both hungry for that next ring. And, by the way, if they get it, they may finally be considered the greatest coach/quarterback of all time. Screw one game at a time- this team is going to win the Super Bowl in Dallas on February 6th, 2011, at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4pslL_ii05kvnO9uodTPaHqzOGCPTdCcXJC7AbHw1vcrjKAhcrldS0WiTZl1-K3RgOJsZ8UFFVgpQc8c_GtvI3WcP-PNhTzK8A5QHKh81feSNpD5nSiLoVc5EqyuYIFP3qaBRy8XheY/s1600/patswintitleimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM4pslL_ii05kvnO9uodTPaHqzOGCPTdCcXJC7AbHw1vcrjKAhcrldS0WiTZl1-K3RgOJsZ8UFFVgpQc8c_GtvI3WcP-PNhTzK8A5QHKh81feSNpD5nSiLoVc5EqyuYIFP3qaBRy8XheY/s1600/patswintitleimages.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pats will be raising another Lombardi Trophy this year!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We haven't won anything yet, but we will very soon, starting with the Patriots.</span>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-77294822836671242022010-12-08T23:28:00.002-05:002010-12-09T14:03:58.612-05:00New look Pats hush doubters, expose Jets in front of national audience<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4PoelkPKk2bQO3Pz-_z8RY9eGfAMIE4jNDQ5-D4tr9GDo7T7l0YKfi28TJ6a7IPkWikXOQ9jRIaZKUEriFD6rYUMb6MKG2-jw6XuTubpGhe0fUbLCoudQ79cpw_yIRs6YOnY4CVv1Fu8/s1600/Randy+Moss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4PoelkPKk2bQO3Pz-_z8RY9eGfAMIE4jNDQ5-D4tr9GDo7T7l0YKfi28TJ6a7IPkWikXOQ9jRIaZKUEriFD6rYUMb6MKG2-jw6XuTubpGhe0fUbLCoudQ79cpw_yIRs6YOnY4CVv1Fu8/s320/Randy+Moss.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Randy who?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>When the Pats traded Randy Moss, I wrote that the effect would be "devastating." That was before the Patriots traded for Deion Branch and unleashed secret weapon Danny Woodhead. Now, the only thing that is "devastating" is the Patriots offense- which has steamrolled opponents the last month to the tune of 40 points per game. Tom Brady has not thrown a pick in 228 consecutive attempts, and most importantly, the Pats are 4-0. They have taken care of business against the AFC North leading Steelers, the defending AFC Champion Colts (who recently have lived up to their dictionary definition: Colt- "a young, uncastrated male horse, in particular one less than four years old." Low blow? Perhaps, but Peyton Manning has looked more like an uncastrated baby horse than an NFL quarterback the last couple of weeks), the defending cellar dweller Lions (OK, "defending cellar dweller" isn't an accepted term- it just sounded better that saying "the Lions"), and the (used to be, before they decided to choke on Monday Night Football) number one seed in the AFC- New York Jets.<br />
<br />
That is one hell of a run.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYytJbSh2j1DUcsSMR5P8zcO1ZqoETRLsdBWqluXuHlTIC7w6XjvtW7gV6LgTkhyCcyl77Jhie173m5wgKV9jVgbWMqz3GvyyRU_Wkfx8JTI1gJAgPt19IzfLeNfSjW0BDFyvQGnb-QA4/s1600/run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYytJbSh2j1DUcsSMR5P8zcO1ZqoETRLsdBWqluXuHlTIC7w6XjvtW7gV6LgTkhyCcyl77Jhie173m5wgKV9jVgbWMqz3GvyyRU_Wkfx8JTI1gJAgPt19IzfLeNfSjW0BDFyvQGnb-QA4/s200/run.jpg" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not quite as wild a run as Forrest Gump's sprint around the world, but close</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
In 2001, 2003 and 2004, the Patriots started getting hot when the weather started getting cold. This team is doing the same. The schedule doesn't let up though, with a trip to the surprise NFC North leading Chicago Bears, followed by a home game against the dangerous Green Bay Packers- led by budding superstar Aaron Rodgers. To say that the Pats have locked up the number 1 seed would be silly. But they certainly have earned the attention of the rest of the league, and <i>look</i> like the best team in the NFL following their explosive 45-3 dismantling of the poor New York Jets.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimi5G_tl9hCCAypcnfdFx4JKng8yD80i2VERqLj2RB00u5Mdn6zjhRF-qrPIU1iZ1iA-fRKgniw-AH92hXzI-rYD6ssLG1IsAWj31e-f9_JY4FMoe16bOOid9uHU2wT-2il5qcrG3O6pA/s1600/belly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimi5G_tl9hCCAypcnfdFx4JKng8yD80i2VERqLj2RB00u5Mdn6zjhRF-qrPIU1iZ1iA-fRKgniw-AH92hXzI-rYD6ssLG1IsAWj31e-f9_JY4FMoe16bOOid9uHU2wT-2il5qcrG3O6pA/s1600/belly.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And you wonder why they call him "the Belly"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I, along with the rest of the United States (except maybe Rex, or as he was called in the Boston Globe, "the belly") expected a tremendous, hard-fought battle between the two marquee teams in the AFC. Boy were we wrong. The Pats used a balanced attack on offense to pick apart what was believed to be one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. The offense has so many weapons, it seems almost unstoppable. Mighty Danny Woodhead had a fantastic revenge game with 104 receiving yards on only four receptions, BJGE had a strong game with two rushing touchdowns, and Tom spread the ball around to Branch, Welker and Hernandez to keep the Jets defense on their heels. One of the big storylines going into the game was the question of who superstar cornerback Darrelle Revis would cover. Well it didn't really matter. With this offense, there are too many options for Revis to shutdown the passing game. If he covered Branch, Brady hit Welker. If he covered Welker, Brady found Branch or Hernandez.<br />
<br />
It really was an offensive clinic.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhsyhUEwyq1dK-4OEadrGa3HwAkbVKZKyXz_8oiWCmIs5QRBwXG7douprxtv2jBBag5jI206iNV01PLdkAT0VvwpOtp5baZuOfa5e5uAQ8jN5AXiX62wbMsp3ROXaRbEyjejrzIx98SA/s1600/awful+jets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhsyhUEwyq1dK-4OEadrGa3HwAkbVKZKyXz_8oiWCmIs5QRBwXG7douprxtv2jBBag5jI206iNV01PLdkAT0VvwpOtp5baZuOfa5e5uAQ8jN5AXiX62wbMsp3ROXaRbEyjejrzIx98SA/s1600/awful+jets.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark Sanchez reminded Jets fans of Vinny Testaverde</td></tr>
</tbody></table>And what about the defense? They were fantastic. With the help of erratic second year QB Mark Sanchez, and some extremely questionable play-calling, the defense played its best game of the year. Sanchez looked uncomfortable in the cold all night; You think he misses Southern California yet? Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, as he has done a few times this year, outsmarted himself. For the first time I've seen, the Jets opened the first two possessions in a shotgun, spread-em-out formation. Not a terrible idea- to spread out the porous Patriots secondary. But the Jets are a run-first offense. Maybe Schottenheimer got caught up in all the talk about the Jets being an explosive offense with former Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes leading the charge. Not surprisingly, the Jets didn't score on those two possessions. Sanchez brought back some awful memories for Jets fans of chicken armed quarterback Vinny Testaverde, making some atrocious throws both short and long. On their third possession, the Jets ran the ball five times in a row, got into field goal range, and scored their only points of the game. The Pats responded by going to little man Danny Woodhead for 35 yards, which set up a Brady four yard strike to Brandon Tate. By then, it was 24-3, and the Jets were forced to become a one dimensional offense. It was also right about the time that a drunk Jets fan stumbled into our section, asked "is this my seat," and then (in the most obvious plot development ever) tripped over a cup holder and fell onto about five different people. The poor guy got up and just walked away confused as to what had just happened to him.<br />
<br />
It reminded us all of Mark Sanchez.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQnU4d2N0nztd0gBP-qFUk3iTPUsQjTtwoQu-hpICa3aPw8m7HgDFRjd6rDk4s9Y_qaMO0B2HsQgfx52RzDnRzdW14La8TB59UxH11MTaFHzCQlO8V0bGHfh3UGNgyyp4c9P8s7ftokY/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQnU4d2N0nztd0gBP-qFUk3iTPUsQjTtwoQu-hpICa3aPw8m7HgDFRjd6rDk4s9Y_qaMO0B2HsQgfx52RzDnRzdW14La8TB59UxH11MTaFHzCQlO8V0bGHfh3UGNgyyp4c9P8s7ftokY/s1600/cake.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing like the icing of a Patriots cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Speaking of Sanchez, Brandon Spikes picked off a horrific throw at the five yard line on the Jets first possession of the third quarter, and everything after that was just icing on the cake. <br />
<br />
What does this game mean? Are the Pats the best in the business, or are the Jets just really, really bad? As is usually the case, it is a little bit of both. Let's start with the Jets. Maybe they were just a tad overrated going into the game. Because, as we all know by now, the Jets had only one win against a team with more wins than losses (week 2 against a completely different Patriots squad), and had only won one game convincingly (the next week against the immortal Buffalo Bills). Needless to say, this team isn't as good as their record says they are. Probably stuck with a 5 seed in the playoffs, this particular Jets team looks like it can pull off one upset (is beating the Jags or Chiefs even considered an upset?) before being put in its place in round 2. I've been saying this all year: the Jets can not win with Mark Sanchez at QB. Yes, he will probably be a good QB in a few years, but the Jets are built to win now, and he does not give them a chance. He is too inconsistent and throws way too many (dreadful) interceptions. You think Mark Sanchez is winning a game in Arrowhead Stadium, Heinz Field and Gillette Stadium in January? I didn't think so.<br />
<br />
On to the Pats. Are they the best in the NFL? The answer is yes, but not by much. The Falcons have figured out ways to win a few really tough games, and sit atop the NFL with the Patriots at 10-2. There are 3 teams that I think would give the Patriots trouble right now: Baltimore, Atlanta and Green Bay. The Pats already manhandled the Steelers and Jets, while the wheels have completely fallen off in Indianapolis. Philadelphia is very inconsistent, and we have yet to see Michael Vick stay healthy for more than six or seven games (and he takes an absolute beating every week). Green Bay, Baltimore and Atlanta all have some terrific defensive playmakers to complement their balanced offensive attacks (except Green Bay- they have no running game, but Rodgers is playing so great that it doesn't even matter). What we have with the Pats is an offensive juggernaut and a young defense which gives up yards in bunches, but clamps down when it has to (or comes up with that big turnover they haven't got since the days of Bruschi, Law and McGinest). Brady is playing the best football of his career, and he has an almost unlimited arsenal of weapons at his disposal. King William Belichick is having one of the finest coaching years of his life (who thought the Pats would get the number 1 seed? If you answered yes to that then you are either a liar or an idiot), and the NFL is <i>just</i> wide open enough for the Pats (with their 32nd ranked defense) to go to the Big Game in Dallas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>But don't book your tickets yet, there is still a lot of fun football left to be played- starting this week in Chicago against the ferocious Bears.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEw3o6pTK3R_HOxOYdnSc187smkHZHDQ5UsNuvdGa1OdAoHV_9XVK9IiXH7Y-Qow-2ng5rDC9LO3fMBsOGwP8FMQ5NsWFHrbeLyelgPAMZUbTtJnDaVyoFseS7jdZS9IJt8PGqwdM9axc/s1600/buckle+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEw3o6pTK3R_HOxOYdnSc187smkHZHDQ5UsNuvdGa1OdAoHV_9XVK9IiXH7Y-Qow-2ng5rDC9LO3fMBsOGwP8FMQ5NsWFHrbeLyelgPAMZUbTtJnDaVyoFseS7jdZS9IJt8PGqwdM9axc/s200/buckle+up.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get ready for one hell of a Super Bowl run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Buckle up, this is going to be one hell of a ride.Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-30134321901706165472010-12-02T18:13:00.002-05:002010-12-02T19:15:00.735-05:00Are you ready for some football? Pats-Jets prepare for Monday Night faceoff<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_-lxnFgnUTbzvifwYCLdvzgCNyL1QFZLBhY8cLYDEMYOp2mGgy3blZXPBS249tQgpGHcvoRNePTB1Ox5ueLOkYgWyo3NG-KENp6SAttoxCvb-YGWH2Znkzc-HYwSVBrizGH827e_SxY/s1600/marbles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_-lxnFgnUTbzvifwYCLdvzgCNyL1QFZLBhY8cLYDEMYOp2mGgy3blZXPBS249tQgpGHcvoRNePTB1Ox5ueLOkYgWyo3NG-KENp6SAttoxCvb-YGWH2Znkzc-HYwSVBrizGH827e_SxY/s200/marbles.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one's for ALL the marbles</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Pats.<br />
<br />
Jets.<br />
<br />
All the marbles.<br />
<br />
Everyone is getting excited for the most anticipated regular season game since the Pats and Colts squared off in Super Bowl 41 and a half in 2007. And for good reason.<br />
This game is going to live up to the hype. Last week, the Falcons and Packers played an extraordinary game in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. The Falcons triumphed, getting the final score on a 47 yard kick from veteran Kicker Matt Bryant. The kick followed a frenetic 90 yard drive by Aaron Rodgers and the Packers, which ended with a beautiful 10 yard strike from Rodgers to Jordy Nelson. Needless to say, the battle between two of the NFC heavyweights was great entertainment. I expect the same this Monday Night in Foxborough. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2kf5XR5vmRimrXC20t-oMGKiVzEeZ4l_IK23SEJDemYJfJUVnrN-zy8gtEK5USnLsKfspWw2qEygMxDAyhqeQ61NoJQvWVL_f-MerSkPZFSF8Qeah9Zq-OBgCIBqAEK7EUBw5rdPJa8/s1600/REx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2kf5XR5vmRimrXC20t-oMGKiVzEeZ4l_IK23SEJDemYJfJUVnrN-zy8gtEK5USnLsKfspWw2qEygMxDAyhqeQ61NoJQvWVL_f-MerSkPZFSF8Qeah9Zq-OBgCIBqAEK7EUBw5rdPJa8/s200/REx.jpg" width="151" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whoa there!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
These teams hate each other. They may not say it but, oh wait, they do. Rex Ryan stoked the coals last year by grunting (I can't imagine him "saying" anything, every time I look at him I can only imagine him grunting) "I didn't come here to kiss Belichick's rings." Tom Brady took a blowtorch to those coals when he told reporters this summer "I hate the Jets." <br />
<br />
It's on.<br />
<br />
The thing is, this year it is the real deal. The rivalry was always missing something. Usually, it was the fact that the Jets were so inferior to the Pats. Even the few times that they beat us (Screw you Mangenious), it didn't seem like they were better than us, they just outplayed us on that Sunday. <br />
<br />
Now, things are different. <br />
<br />
It was the Jets who went to the AFC Championship game last season, and the Patriots who got blown out at home by the Ravens. This year, with a little luck for both teams, the Pats and Jets sit side by side atop the AFC at 9-2. They matchup with each other extremely well. The Jets say they were "built to beat the Patriots." The Patriots are built to win Super Bowls. But right now, it doesn't seem like the Pats are going to win a Super Bowl without going through the Jets. Whoever wins this game will most likely get a Number One seed in the Playoffs, with home-field throughout. This is less important to the Jets (5-0 on the Road) than it is to the Pats (riding a 25 game -regular season- home winning streak). But confidence wise, this game is critical for both teams. The Jets haven't swept the Pats in the regular season in the Tom Brady era, and would love to get over that hump (though I did speak to a die hard Jets fan recently who said he doesn't care about this game, he only cares if they win in the playoffs. Wait, it's more important to win in the playoffs? I would have never known!)<br />
<br />
How evenly matched are these teams? There are so many questions for both teams:<br />
<br />
Pats:<br />
1) Where do you put McCourty? If you put him on Holmes, then Arrington has to cover Braylon (in week 2, Shaughnessy joked that Edwards was "eating candy off the top of his [Arrington's] head."), if you put him on Braylon, then Arrington has to cover Holmes (Arrington has had trouble with number 1's in the last few games, and Holmes has certainly earned the "number 1" tag after 2 game winning catches so far this season).<br />
<b>My Take</b>: Put McCourty on Holmes, Arrington on Edwards (with help over the top from Meriweather), Chung on Keller, and pray to god that there is a good pass rush.<br />
<br />
2) Is the focus on stopping the run or the pass? Usually, Belichick focuses on stopping the run and making Sanchize beat them. But it seems different now. The Jets have 5 legitimate weapons (Holmes, Edwards, LT, Keller, Smith/Cotchery) on the field every play. We've seen some beautiful throws from Sanchez to Edwards down the field this season (the one before the half in Detroit was gorgeous, and the throw down the sidelines against the Texans was perfectly thrown), we've seen some great yards-after-catch plays by Santonio, and obviously Keller DESTROYED the Pats in week 2. Do you try and stop the run game- which has slowed down lately- or try and stop the suddenly explosive passing attack? <br />
<b>My Take</b>: Stop the run. Stop the run. Stop the run. As we've seen with the Patriots lately, if a team gets the run game going, the play action becomes a lethal weapon. The Jets do a great job with setting up play action by pounding the ball to Shonn Greene and LT. Stop them, and avoid big plays to Braylon/Holmes, and I think the Pats will put the Jets in a lot of third and long situations.<br />
<br />
3) How long do you stick with the run game if it isn't producing big plays? We've seen what happens when the run game doesn't get going, and we've seen what happens when BJGE and Woodchuck have big games. The Pats offense is dominant when the run game is getting 4 or 4.5 yards a carry. In the past few games the Pats play action has been the focal point of the offense, and it has paid huge dividends, as the Pats are averaging a whopping 38 points per game in the last 3 games.<br />
<b>My Take</b>: As long as the Pats don't fall behind by more than 2 scores (which I don't foresee), they should be running the ball often. Whether it is BJGE or Woodchuck will depend on the Jets' defensive game plan, but I don't expect to see a Pats offensive attack like we saw in week 2 (abandoned the running game, and forced the pass- allowing the Jets to disguise their defensive fronts and force some terrible throws from Lord Brady). I would guess that they start with BJGE early, and use Woodchuck later to offset the blitz with his trademark draw plays.<br />
<br />
Jets:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMEuc4J8jcohmPXMgZm8iwryPIWx-B4Y9urqAYHzGsOH3NIwvlmNrG7xsr7SaE2w8zcvEmu_-4uUvujunRn5LDSTwOuWoS9NtT-7AziwrVJRYgvHFBSO2cng2pQIHj9eGad6XK88uKpk/s1600/brady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMEuc4J8jcohmPXMgZm8iwryPIWx-B4Y9urqAYHzGsOH3NIwvlmNrG7xsr7SaE2w8zcvEmu_-4uUvujunRn5LDSTwOuWoS9NtT-7AziwrVJRYgvHFBSO2cng2pQIHj9eGad6XK88uKpk/s1600/brady.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He's also astonishingly good looking</td></tr>
</tbody></table>1) How do you slow down Tom Brady? He has been playing on another level the last few weeks, and might be playing the best football of his career. He is making perfect throws, and is getting great protection from the re-invigorated (thank you Logan Mankins) offensive line. It seems that blitzing (Steelers), using speed rushers (Indy) and collapsing the pocket (Ndamukong Suh and the Lions) have done little to faze Brady, who has stood tall and made every throw possible in the last 3 weeks.<br />
<b>My Take</b>: Don't give up the big play and stop the run. Both things the Jets do very well, and both things the Jets did very well in week 2 (Brady's worst game of the season). If the Jets force the Patriots to go down the field little by little, and don't allow any big plays from Branch or Tate (or anyone else for that matter), they have a chance to slow the high powered Patriots passing game.<br />
<br />
2) How do you cover all of their players? The Pats have so many options on offense, and you never know which one will be the go-to guy for that week. There have been huge games from BJGE, Woodchuck, Branch, Welker, Tate, Gronk and Hernandez. That is seven weapons the Jets have to be aware of and game plan against. One of the reasons the Jets defense is so successful is their ability to shut down the other team's top WR with "Revis Island." Besides Darrelle, Cromartie has been fantastic this season (aside for a bunch of atrocious penalties- I think he had 3 block-in-the-back penalties last week. Is that even possible?). The thing is, those are two big, physical corners. They are built to shut down the Randy Mosses, Andre Johnsons and Brandon Marshalls of the world. They aren't built to run underneath with the slippery Wes Welker or keep up with route running wizard Deion Branch. Who covers Lebron over the middle? Oops, I meant- Who covers Gronkowski over the middle? Jim Leonard? Puh-leeze. He is 5'7- good luck with that.<br />
<b>My Take</b>: Again, it is all about avoiding the big play. I would put Revis on Branch, Cromartie on Hernandez (or Gronkowski, whoever is in), double Welker with a LB and S, and assume that your front 4 can stop the Pats run game.<br />
<br />
<br />
Keys to the game:<br />
<br />
Pats:<br />
1) Protect Tom Brady. If the O-Line is as good as it has been lately, the Pats will run away with this one.<br />
2) Tackle. Tackle. Tackle. Tackle. Pretty self explanatory. (Especially Brad Smith and Santonio Holmes)<br />
3) Red Zone defense. The D has been shaky the last few weeks inside the red zone, and the Jets have done a nice job of finishing drives lately. Also, the Jets kicking situation is a disaster, so expect the Jets to go for some fourth and shorts inside Patriots territory.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFZZb6a-2j1rUxLugzlxnBLrmYGnkIfLl-QVcYmvZPAbTmN-tego1b0HzLxYxhsop_x5jfq2ofsLl4sW5OJhtjJHJ-hetLopVpFqqmfjTtU5a3-xFHVJW1RDE2HtCQPCpn61DSIWd4mA/s1600/gisele.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFZZb6a-2j1rUxLugzlxnBLrmYGnkIfLl-QVcYmvZPAbTmN-tego1b0HzLxYxhsop_x5jfq2ofsLl4sW5OJhtjJHJ-hetLopVpFqqmfjTtU5a3-xFHVJW1RDE2HtCQPCpn61DSIWd4mA/s1600/gisele.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why not? Tom is the luckiest man on earth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Jets:<br />
1) Pressuring Tom Brady without the blitz. With so many options, if Brady has more than 3 seconds to throw, he is going to complete the pass. The Jets did a wonderful job of getting to Brady without the Blitz in week 2. They need to do that again.<br />
2) Finish drives. Field goals don't win games against the Patriots, it's that simple.<br />
3) Keeping Brady off the field with long, sustained drives. If the Jets get the run game going early and grab an early lead, they could make the Patriots a one dimensional team- which would allow the Jets defense to disguise their blitzes more effectively (guys walking around the defensive line, zone blitzes, etc.).<br />
<br />
This game is going to be a dogfight, but I think the Pats will win a squeaker 27-23.<br />
<br />
<br />
And Another Thing:<br />
<br />
LETS GO CAVS! LETS GO CAVS! LETS GO CAVS!Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-29166882369552830632010-11-22T23:36:00.000-05:002010-11-22T23:36:26.560-05:00Pats, Jets on crash course for AFC supremecy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9EABqUqk7Yysgx-cUDU2Ac0yOWZ327eFqmfkmeGCLmhxjn1AnGFITSk6CJGoFaaoAXNQOSTsI2WZCBmixeflJgUtO223v6QKjkt0d4ypMFm9A2kNuXz2nEdwCvAznEPo4S4VDJKVcoU/s1600/heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9EABqUqk7Yysgx-cUDU2Ac0yOWZ327eFqmfkmeGCLmhxjn1AnGFITSk6CJGoFaaoAXNQOSTsI2WZCBmixeflJgUtO223v6QKjkt0d4ypMFm9A2kNuXz2nEdwCvAznEPo4S4VDJKVcoU/s1600/heart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a freakin' day!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>What a heart pumping day for Boston sports fans. First, you had the Celtics inexcusably blow a game in Toronto. Then you had the Jets ridiculous up and down come from behind, last second victory. And finally, the Patriots' Big Game James Sanders sealing the Annual Brady-Manning Bowl with a superb interception.<br />
<br />
[Quickly let me talk about the Celtics recent struggles. I am not worried. Not one bit. The C's are in a strange transition right now- Delonte West was inserted into the rotation, and virtuoso PG Rajon Rondo strained his hammy and missed the 4th quarter against the Thunder, and all of the Raptors game, forcing Nate "Dogg" Robinson into an unfamiliar starting PG role. The results have been underwhelming. Unfortunately, there is no rest with a game looming against the athletic Atlanta Hawks. Rondo figures to miss that game as well. Unless Rondo is seriously injured, the C's will be back to their dominant selves by the end of the week. No need to panic. <i>EDITOR'S NOTE: CELTICS RAVAGED THE HAWKS TONIGHT, WITH NATE DOGG LEADING THE WAY. TOLD YOU NOT TO PANIC!</i>]<br />
<br />
Enough about basketball, lets take a good look at a fun Week 11 in the NFL.<br />
<br />
We'll start by discussing the fantastic Pats- Colts rumble at Gillette Stadium. Let me begin by saying that this fourth quarter did NOT have the same feel as the past few Manning-led comebacks.<br />
First of all, this game was in Foxboro, not Indianapolis. Hanging over every opponent when entering Gillette Stadium is the fact that this is Tom Brady's backyard. He's got two streaks in his career of 20+ home winning streaks. He currently has a record tying 25 straight victories at Gillete. Fitting that he will break the record in two weeks against his arch enemy, the New York Jets. Like he said, "I hate the Jets." Don't we all Tom, don't we all.<br />
The second thing that comforted me was the difference in the defense this year from previous years. Despite being ranked an atrocious 32nd on third down defense, this group has made the plays when the going got tough. Think about this season. Our two losses were as much about a lack of offense as it was a lack of defense. I must say though- the defense was especially putrid against Peyton Hillis. That was downright offensive. But think about the wins. Cincinnati scored a bunch of garbage time points, but were smothered in the first three quarters, including a huge pick 6 by Gary Guyton. [Side note: I'm not here to talk about the Buffalo game, the past is the past.] Miami was obviously won by the defense/special teams. Against Baltimore, the defense clamped down in the fourth quarter and overtime (holding Baltimore to a putrid 5-16 on third downs) while the offense struggled mightily. San Diego was definitely scary, and the defense was horrific in the fourth quarter, but at the end of the day, they held San Diego and forced them to try a long field goal. Minnesota was one of the defense's best games, making a few great stops on third and shorts (and fourth and shorts) against superstar Adrien Peterson. Against Pittsburgh, their effectiveness in the first half allowed them enough breathing room to win easily despite 23 fourth quarter points from Big Ben. Finally, this unit has turned it around. Every other year, the Pats probably would have lost the Baltimore and San Diego games. Not this year. This is a young, fast, energetic and motivated group of guys who despite their shortcomings, make the plays when it matters most. And the best thing about it is that it isn't only one guy. It's a group effort. It's Rob Ninkovitch against the Bengals and Dolphins. It's Pat Chung on special teams against Miami. It was Big Game James this week (as well as a nail in the coffin pick 6 last week). Jerod Mayo and Brandon Spikes were unreal in the Sota' game, TBC and Mike Wright stepped it up in the Pitt game. McCourty and Chung have been spectacular all year. Wilfork is having one of his best years as not only a player, but a leader. There have even been big time plays by complete no names like Dane Fletcher, Myron Pryor, Ron Brace, Gerard Warren, Brandon Deaderick and Kyle Arrington.<br />
The last thing is fairly clear if you have watched Indy at all the past few weeks. This is absolutely not the same offense we are accustomed to seeing out of Peyton Manning. He is amazing. Probably the best pure quarterback ever (No disrespect to Tom or Joe- I would take them over Manning all day. They are winners. But Manning has perfect mechanics, is the best at-the-line playcaller, and runs the scariest 2 minute offense in the history of the NFL.), but you have to have <i>someone</i> to take the pressure off of you, whether it be a running back or receiver. Yea, Reggie Wayne played. He too is great. But there was no one else to be seen. Collie's concussion forced him out of the game after a huge drop (would have been a fifty yard reception), and besides for one or two big runs, the running backs basically were running into a brick wall all game. In the end, the losses of Dallas Clark, Joseph Addai and Anthony Gonzalez have rendered Manning human. Can he still toss 400 yards and 4 TD's? Yes, he did it yesterday. But those three picks would have been avoided if Manning had his full arsenal. This might be the year that Indy has a first round exit in the Playoffs. Obviously with Manning anything is possible, but, especially considering the state of the Indy defense, without healthy bodies, it seems the Colts will have to wait until next year.<br />
<br />
Some observations about the game as a whole:<br />
<br />
1) Tom Brady is as good as he has ever been. I'm not saying he is gonna put up 50 TD's, I am just saying that these past two weeks are the most accurate and effective he has ever been. He is making throws that are jaw dropping. The near-interception in the fourth quarter by Tyjuan Hagler has been his only bad throw the past two games, and it would have been absolutely killer, but luckily Hagler dropped it. Aside from that, Brady has been almost flawless (120 QB rating, 5-0 TD:INT ratio, 1 rushing TD, 73 % completion percentage). After this game, I believe Tom has solidified his place atop the MVP hopefuls. And don't look now, but his next game is against the lowly Lions.<br />
<br />
2) The offensive line was unbelievable. Really, really unbelievable. Brady was sacked once, but was barely even pressured the rest of the night despite speedsters Roger Mathis and Dwight Freeney gunning for his head. Alge Crumpler has been spectacular, along with Sebastian Vollmer and Matt Light. The return of Logan Mankins has really ignited the rest of the guys- they were terrific against Pitt, and again yesterday.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eml5zWnTSEgzEKoAANSOTMPIqVQ3YELy39E5MKlcP3rRpZqrHv9Xdi5znjSgZuTUhjUCC0gEGHga28BIhTfc4-MsJ3xxpqQfUUDkdItXf2wbXmgF5Pgv69Nxnoh9Mh0xvJLei89mhcc/s1600/Woodhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eml5zWnTSEgzEKoAANSOTMPIqVQ3YELy39E5MKlcP3rRpZqrHv9Xdi5znjSgZuTUhjUCC0gEGHga28BIhTfc4-MsJ3xxpqQfUUDkdItXf2wbXmgF5Pgv69Nxnoh9Mh0xvJLei89mhcc/s200/Woodhead.jpg" width="139" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yea, THAT guy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>3) Danny Woodhead. DANNY WOODHEAD! Where do I even begin? Driving at the end of the third quarter, I had a conversation with a friend who was at the game with me.<br />
He started by saying: "That Woodhead, he is a football player. He's small, but he plays the game right."<br />
I quickly agreed and remarked "He is small, but he is strong, he blocks well, he reads defenses well, fast as hell and is great out of the backfield. He really is a younger, faster version of Kevin Faulk."<br />
Literally as I ended my sentence, Woodhead took the handoff, ran into the offensive line, surveyed the field and noticed an opening to the right. He took off, put a nice move on Aaron Francisco, maintained balance, and was off to the races. Aided by some beautiful downfield blocks from Deion Branch and Wes Welker, Woodhead ran into the endzone for an electrifying 36 yard TD run. What a great play. And to show off his versatility, he made a fantastic take-your-knees-out tackle on the ensuing kickoff. Woodchuck had one of his best games of the season, but I'm sure he's saving his best for Week 12 against his former team- the NY Jets. Hey, the Jets have to be good for something, right?<br />
<br />
4) Gary Guyton has come into his own. He was terrific against Pittsburgh, and was even better this week. He had a bunch of great tackles, and is the perfect compliment to the bigger, stronger Brandon Spikes. This is why Belichick is so succesful. His players accept their roles, if not, they are off the team. Guyton played very sparingly for most of the season, mainly playing in the dime package, but was relied on heavily the last couple of weeks, and he has produced. There are not many players who can come on after so little playing time and play as well as Guyton has. He will probably be very helpful against Green Bay in a few weeks, and Belichick won't be afraid to call his number.<br />
<br />
5) Jerod Mayo just keeps piling up the tackles. At this point, anything less than ten is a disappointment. He had fifteen more yesterday. That gives him 119 on the season, twenty more than the next guy. He also has been sent on a few blitzes recently, and he looks very comfortable adding that aspect to his game. He barely missed Roethlisberger last week, and did the same with Manning this week- eventually the sacks will come. For now, we will settle for the NFL leader in tackles.<br />
<br />
6) Kyle Arrington has to make that tackle on Reggie Wayne at the end of the second quarter. The touchdown throw was perfect, so I don't blame him, but that tackle must be made. Darius Butler replaced him, and rightly so. Hopefully Butler will get back to doing the things which made him so intriguing last year, otherwise the Pats are going to have trouble at that second CB spot.<br />
<br />
7) Deion Branch is the new key to the passing game. Against Minnesota/Cleveland, an injured Branch limped to 3 catches and 42 yards. In the two games since, which happen to be our two most impressive victories of the season, Branch has lead the team with 14 catches and 141 yards. The difference between Branch and Moss is that Branch doesn't need to score touchdowns to be effective. A game without a TD for Moss was usually a bad one; For Branch, as long as he's getting first downs, he is going to have a big day. In only 6 games, Branch is the number two WR in first downs behind the slippery Wes Welker. When Branch is getting open, usually along the sidelines, the middle of the field is once again opened up for Wes and Aaron Hernandez. With the recent strong play from the running game, and a healthy Deion, this offense is finally fulfilling its full potential.<br />
<br />
8) Speaking of the running game, how about the Law Firm! Another hard fought game by him- 21 rushes for 96 and a TD, and yet another reason why Fred Taylor remains on the sideline. Expect Belichick to continue riding BenJarvis until he gives him reason not to. Like I wrote last time, he never fumbles, and is always moving forward- great characteristics for any running back. I love the way he runs, and he is the perfect compliment to the lightning quick Danny Woodhead (who compiled a fantastic 7-69 and a TD on the ground).<br />
<br />
9) Obviously, this was a big win for the Pats, especially after the Jets managed to beat the Texans. The Pats are holding steady with the Jets atop the AFC East, and every game from here on out is a must win if they want a chance at a first round bye. Despite the obvious Trap Game potential, I think the Pats will take care of business (especially after taking Cleveland too lightly) in Detroit 37-20, setting up the biggest regular season game since the Pats and Colts faced off for what was dubbed Super Bowl Forty One and a Half back in 2007.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Z94n9HX2kGRC5vyK49aSbeEspHLPztL9Zvjtu-X17sFlGU4SFqH5ghiF-C0_j4NEjUiGR-G_NHu8lkJOSeSTA_mCk5R_c3q0y_47-1Yytbl7fryvpKgSMU25AO-v00Cz9L_hvx5iMwM/s1600/bauer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Z94n9HX2kGRC5vyK49aSbeEspHLPztL9Zvjtu-X17sFlGU4SFqH5ghiF-C0_j4NEjUiGR-G_NHu8lkJOSeSTA_mCk5R_c3q0y_47-1Yytbl7fryvpKgSMU25AO-v00Cz9L_hvx5iMwM/s1600/bauer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like the Jets, he will not die.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Speaking of the Jets, what the hell! They are like Jack Bauer! They ALWAYS escape! They will not die! I don't quite understand how they won that game on Sunday. Last I knew, the Texans had picked off a TERRIBLE (and may I add- CLASSIC) Sanchez throw, and returned it to the 10 yard line up 1 with 2 minutes left (and the Jets had only 2 timeouts). Somehow, some way, the Texans blew it. Yea, Sanchez had a great throw to Braylon Edwards. But, lets be real here, are you kidding me?!?! How do you only have one man deep when the other team has NO timeouts at the 50 with 30 seconds left? Play 3 deep safetys, and give up the underneath stuff! How could you possibly call yourself an NFL defense and give up a 40 something yard pass down the sideline (only the most important part of the field when you have no timeouts) with only single coverage? There was a safety (former Patriot, Eugene Wilson- good riddance), but he showed up about half an hour late on the throw. Talking about the Jets is just frustrating. Lets recap the last few weeks of games:<br />
<br />
Minnesota: Favre has the ball, down 2, playing his best ball all season. Obviously, he throws a pick 6. Fine, acceptable- only because 90 percent of the world saw that interception coming.<br />
[Anger Level: 6/10]<br />
<br />
Denver: The Jets have a fourth and six at the fifty. All hope seems lost, and then Sanchez heaves one downfield to Santonio Holmes. Pass Interference. Game Over. Kill me now.<br />
[Anger Level: 9/10]<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WXbTdUWcs8sYCkchqFMvb5K1kR0Y_VKaDXINKSUOumFB1JMBkBMr7uROzRmmYhym5L0ks8vf4a6PKEPlPwWcnNk0I8iOuHsAzphwvNEuFPdymsNEJtO5qOg8V2rkJBDTCTZXYrbxThU/s1600/suh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WXbTdUWcs8sYCkchqFMvb5K1kR0Y_VKaDXINKSUOumFB1JMBkBMr7uROzRmmYhym5L0ks8vf4a6PKEPlPwWcnNk0I8iOuHsAzphwvNEuFPdymsNEJtO5qOg8V2rkJBDTCTZXYrbxThU/s1600/suh.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screw you Detroit!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Detroit: Ndamukong Suh misses an extra point which allows the Jets to tie it up in regulation. Stafford goes down with his bajillionth shoulder injury in the 4th quarter. Drew Stanton steps in. Julian Peterson gets a I-Can't-Believe-They-Are-This-Lucky 15 yard Late Hit penalty. Jets win.<br />
[Anger Level: 8/10- only because it is unfair of me to ever expect the Lions to win a big game]<br />
<br />
Cleveland: Chansi Stuckey. Nuff' said.<br />
[Anger Level: 9.5/10- I honestly didn't think it could get any worse until...]<br />
<br />
Houston: WORST. DEFENSE. EVER.<br />
[Anger Level: a Billion/10- I hate everyone involved with the New York Jets: fans, players, media, EVERYONE.]<br />
<br />
I absolutely CAN NOT wait to crush the Jets in Gillette on Monday Night. It is going to be glorious.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Other random thoughts from around the NFL's week 11:<br />
<br />
1) Vince Young. What are you doing? Classic "tons of talent, bad head on his shoulders" player. He was put in a position to succeed- great coach, great running back, great defense- just couldn't put it all together. He's still young though, so maybe a change of scenery will turn his career around. It's too bad, I don't know many real football fans who don't LOVE watching him play. He's tough, and he is a real winner. It was good while it lasted.<br />
<br />
2) Brett Favre should be stuffed into a locker never to be seen or heard from again as an NFL player. The Vikings are a disgrace this season, and they finally got rid of the greatest coach of all time Brad CHILDress. (On second thought- he might be the worst coach in the history of the NFL. Have you ever heard of a coach who hates his players so much? He threw one of them under the bus every week!) They have a new interim Head Coach, and they should have a new QB as well. The season is hopeless, and Favre is retiring. Get rid of him. His time is up. Welcome back to the NFL, Tarvaris Jackson.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAHcRHjA28m4atl3H5nFkd2h5ilj14zIk-dhMD_KFEGgKgVXiCb5rnVae6i1mMmX1DUFBuR5KK4Cm-U8m3f_4huDDOeA2OCjYsGGYqE9FyG5OoBodY14WZZGHNkhYqgMI1SZSHkAm6H-8/s1600/mathews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAHcRHjA28m4atl3H5nFkd2h5ilj14zIk-dhMD_KFEGgKgVXiCb5rnVae6i1mMmX1DUFBuR5KK4Cm-U8m3f_4huDDOeA2OCjYsGGYqE9FyG5OoBodY14WZZGHNkhYqgMI1SZSHkAm6H-8/s1600/mathews.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add this to his Defensive Player of the Year credentials: he's the strongest man in the world</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>3) Philadelphia, Green Bay, Atlanta, New Orleans and Chicago seem to be pulling away from the pack in the NFC. I would say Green Bay is probably the best of the group, because Rodgers is the most consistent quarterback, and Clay Mathews is the best defensive player in the NFL right now. No disrespect to the wonderful play of Mike Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles, Matt Ryan and the Falcons, Drew Brees and the Defending Champion Saints or the surprising (to say the least) turnaround of the Bears, but I would bet on Green Bay to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl (barring injury).<br />
Take that, Favre.<br />
<br />
4) Josh Freeman keeps chugging along. His last 4 games (3-1): 7:2 TD:INT ratio, 112 QB rating, 66 percent passing, 9.3 Yards per Attempt. That my friends (from NY, who root for the Jets) is a franchise quarterback. He has been terrific, and the Buccaneers are making a most unlikely playoff run. Freeman has brought hope back to a fan base struggling with the stink of a 7 year Super Bowl hangover (48-64 record since 2002).<br />
<br />
5) Welcome back to Planet Earth Oakland Raiders. We missed you. After a few ridiculous games, the Raiders were 5-4 and had everyone picking them to upset the Steelers IN Pittsburgh. Seriously? Say goodbye to the playoffs. By the way- Richard Seymour, I love you, but what in the hell were you thinking? I mean, if there is any guy who deserves a slap in the face, it's Big Ben, but you may have cost your team a game, and you might get suspended. You are supposed to be a leader, not a distraction. Hopefully this leads to a huge losing streak for the Raiders. I'm still holding out for a top ten pick in next year's NFL Draft!<br />
<br />
6) I've been waiting for this from the Chargers. The whooping they put on Denver tonight is just another step towards their billionth improbable second half surge towards the playoffs. They are dangerous. V-Jax is on his way back next week. Look out NFL, the Chargers are back.<br />
<br />
<br />
And Another Thing:<br />
Dwyane Wade, what happened man? I have never seen anything like this in his whole career. 1-13 FG, 0-4 3PT, 1-5 FT, 5 TO's, 3 Points. Seriously? What the hell? We knew Lebron would affect your offensive numbers, but we didn't expect you to turn into Tony Allen. The Heat are in deep, deep trouble right now. Erik Spolestra, the time is ticking...Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-304667005062765072010-11-18T22:37:00.001-05:002010-11-19T09:32:31.627-05:00Patriots Midseason Analysis- How did we get here?!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgC22mwWr0AHhKl2x21q8VhURQps8RfpCS6MVJEqLDhThboOgbM4ZqnY14Jl2kNH4VMMhuC8jBKVrBJNw8U0O6w4Q4G-W12CM2Zr6EaTsbh8NYyuigNFXPlW6oS771tDtHEHBNgAZfEw/s1600/Rivalry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVgC22mwWr0AHhKl2x21q8VhURQps8RfpCS6MVJEqLDhThboOgbM4ZqnY14Jl2kNH4VMMhuC8jBKVrBJNw8U0O6w4Q4G-W12CM2Zr6EaTsbh8NYyuigNFXPlW6oS771tDtHEHBNgAZfEw/s1600/Rivalry.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rivalry Lives On!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After their horrible Playoff collapse at the hands of Ray Rice and Baltimore Ravens, the Patriots were declared over the hill. They are rebuilding. They are too old. Tom Brady isn't an elite quarterback anymore. Belichick is trying to do too much- he thinks he's god. The glory days are over, time to start anew.<br />
<br />
Here we are, 10 weeks into a wild 2010 season, and the over the hill Patriots sit atop the NFL standings (with the Jets and Falcons) sporting a shiny 7-2 record.<br />
<br />
WHAT?!<br />
<br />
How did we get here? Weren't they washed up? This was the year the Pats would fall from the NFL's elite.<br />
<br />
And then the season started.<br />
<br />
The Patriots beat up the TOcho Show Bengals, whooping them defensively and dominating them offensively. That was just the beginning.<br />
<br />
Actually, let's go back to the NFL Draft. The Patriots had the 22nd pick in the draft, and pick by pick, Dez Bryant remained available. My friends Sam and Josh were at Music City Radio Hall for the festivities. Coming off an awful loss to the Ravens, and the injury to fan-favorite (and 2 time Pro Bowl WR) Wes Welker, we were all getting excited for the possible arrival of Bryant, who was compared to Randy Moss and Terrell Owens before the draft. Sam and Josh must have each texted me every fifteen minutes: "he is still available! YES!" But, as Patriots fans under the Belichick regime, we should have known better. The Patriots traded the pick and drafted Devin McCourty with the 27th pick of the first round. Furious, we wondered whether Belichick had taken things too far. Why draft a special teamer when you can get a potential superstar WR? McCourty was called "versatile," "hard working" and "smart." Those are the keywords for any Belichick draft pick (with the exception of Brandon Meriweather, who couldn't be any dumber). Later in the draft, the Pats drafted Rob Gronkowski (didn't he just have back surgery that kept him out the whole year? huh?), Jermaine Cunningham (an undersized DE/OLB speed rusher), Brandon Spikes (Finally! A good draft pick! This guys is a beast), troublemaker Aaron Hernandez (tons of talent, drug problems. hmmmm), punter Zoltan Mesko (sweet name! Can he kick?) and much later, DE Brandon Deaderick.<br />
<br />
In Belichick we trust.<br />
<br />
The first place to look for this season's success is to the tremendous 2010 draft class. That is seven starters. SEVEN! Let's take a quick look at each player's contributions this season so far:<br />
<br />
McCourty- Drafted as a special teamer, the Patriots couldn't have possibly imagined this kind of production from the rookie. After Leigh Bodden's season ending injury and Darius Bulter's fall from grace (Seriously, what the hell happened to him?), McCourty was all the sudden our number one Corner. And what a Corner he has been. Devin is fourth on the team in tackles, first in passes defensed, tied for the team lead in INT's, and has been on the field for all but ONE defensive play (he came off the field with the wind knocked out of him after a spectacular defensive play on a long ball to Percy Harvin). This kid is already very good, and he's getting better every game. He was one heck of a pick.<br />
<br />
Gronkowski- Armed with a great nickname, "Gronk" put his talents on display during the Patriots prime time matchup against the Steelers. Hauling in 3 TD passes, Gronk now has 6 on the season, good for most on the team. It hasn't been all great with Rob, as his game against Cleveland was nightmarish. He screwed up a kick return, fumbled on the 1 yard line and dropped a few other passes- and was one of the players blamed for the crushing loss. But good players bounce back, and Gronk did just that. He is huge (6'6 270- imagine Lebron) and is great both as a blocker and receiver.<br />
<br />
Cunningham- Jermaine started off the season hot, earning himself some valuable playing time. Unfortunately for him, a little slippage in his play, and the re-emergence of Tully Banta-Cain has him back in more of a reserve role. He did show flashes of effectiveness though, so expect him to be a part of this defense for years to come.<br />
<br />
Spikes- Spikes has been slightly inconsistent, but this probably has more to do with the gameplan than his actual abilities. Against run-heavy teams, Spikes has been terrific, and is third on the team in tackles. His best game was against Ray Rice and the Ravens. Spikes stopped a few runs short of the line of scrimmage and was just a beast overall, compiling 16 tackles while playing most of the defensive snaps. He and Jerod Mayo are the ILB tandem the Pats have been looking for since Tedy Bruschi's departure.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqvEaJwzrTd423kUrNuInHYxS2RQhZkci4NanfFG-p_MUv4RWn7HNTiibMfl94bWDPEb6TWuKGKSk394kVp1T4pHYElYFqdiHKOeT3VpKyWGXANw5SzccgpvUTx3f8Yz-E_R-4tl3wj5c/s1600/Hernandez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqvEaJwzrTd423kUrNuInHYxS2RQhZkci4NanfFG-p_MUv4RWn7HNTiibMfl94bWDPEb6TWuKGKSk394kVp1T4pHYElYFqdiHKOeT3VpKyWGXANw5SzccgpvUTx3f8Yz-E_R-4tl3wj5c/s200/Hernandez.jpg" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hernandez and Brady have become best buds this season.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Hernandez- Every other team in the NFL is probably kicking themselves for passing on the talented TE from Florida. The Pats may have gotten the steal of the draft with Hernandez. He is second on the team in every important statistic for WR's, and he is only 20! There have been some bumps in the road (Baltimore), but overall he looks like a number one WR/TE along the lines of a Dallas Clark or Antonio Gates.<br />
<br />
Mesko- What more can you say about a rookie Punter? He has been awesome, not only as punter, but as a holder as well. Zoltan may have won the Patriots a game (Baltimore, again!), which is more than you can say about 90 percent of the Punters in the NFL. He's going to be punting here for a long time.<br />
<br />
Deaderick- Already with 2 sacks, Deaderick is the most surprising contributor on this list by far. Drafted as a compensatory pick in the tail end of the seventh round, no one even expected him to make the roster. Guess who started last week?<br />
<br />
<br />
OK. So there is the draft. That is only one piece of the puzzle.<br />
<br />
The next part we have to look at is the health of Tom Brady and Jerod Mayo, both coming off of bad injuries.<br />
<br />
Mayo had an ankle injury which limited him last season. He was a shell of his former Defensive Rookie of the Year self. This year he is unleashing his frustration on opposing running backs. Despite just 5 tackles against the NYJ in week 2, Mayo leads the NFL in tackles with 104. He has had games with 13, 16, 18, 11 and 14 tackles. He is the play caller on defense (he has the green dot on his helmet which indicates who receives the radio calls from the coaches) and the leader of the linebacking group. He has helped mentor Brandon Spikes, and has done a great job with surprising OLB Rob Ninkovitch. He and Wilfork are the keys to the defense.<br />
<br />
Obviously Brady was recovering from knee surgery last year, and sometimes it wasn't pretty. But as the season went on, he started looking like the old Brady. After looking awful in the Playoff loss to Baltimore though, people were predicting his fall from the elite. Brady was unbelievable at the beginning of this season, shutting up all of the critics- until Randy Moss was dealt. For a few games after the trade, Brady was off target and he was frustrated. His receivers weren't getting open, and there were way too many three and outs. He had a few beautiful drives in the Baltimore game, and the offense looked pretty good against the Vikings (especially the offensive line), but there was something missing. The offense wasn't on the same page. Brady was throwing balls high, throwing low, far and short. But on Sunday night he reminded everyone just who he is. He was flawless against Pittsburgh throwing for 350 yards, 3 TD's, with a rushing TD as the cherry on top. He made some perfect throws, but mostly he just found the open man. Brady is in the conversation for league MVP, not only because he is leading the highest scoring offense in the NFL, or because the Pats are 7-2, but also because Brady's numbers have been fantastic. His 17-4 TD:INT (one of those picks was a hail mary) is out of this world, and he is making this all work with a new offense on the fly. He's incorporated 3 new TE's and a couple of new receivers without missing a beat. Tom Brady is back, and he is hungry for another championship.<br />
<br />
The last couple of guys I want to talk about are Patrick Chung and BenJarvis Green-Ellis.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCcLxU_KOpBZkof_4Ley7_dADvRFCIGkBznEr6LGvRG63iyjL4yXCv5Q84mdQ4ifjvJWLj9MBorwBUZOF-rC7PijfLmKFS_8etccDoAGbyzJj1xyVl2F4IBpzay00V3U9LguHKmdfgjc/s1600/Chung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgCcLxU_KOpBZkof_4Ley7_dADvRFCIGkBznEr6LGvRG63iyjL4yXCv5Q84mdQ4ifjvJWLj9MBorwBUZOF-rC7PijfLmKFS_8etccDoAGbyzJj1xyVl2F4IBpzay00V3U9LguHKmdfgjc/s1600/Chung.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chung and TBC having fun in the snow.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tedy Bruschi talked last week on ESPN about how top defenses have a leader in each of the three tiers (Defensive Line, Linebackers, Secondary). Wilfork is clearly a leader on the defensive line and we talked about Mayo's leadership. Bruschi suggests that Chung is that third tier leader the Patriots have been lacking the last few years. He sure plays the part. Chung is a missile on the field. He is a sound tackler, and can make a WR pay if they come into his territory. His absence was sorely missed in the Cleveland debacle two weeks ago, but he came back in a big way against the Steelers, flying around the field, and putting tons of pressure on QB Ben Roethlisberger. He had some trouble last season with his consistency, and a few people pegged him as a bust. But Pat came back with a vengeance, starting in training camp. With Chung and McCourty, the Patriots have two young, up and coming defensive backs who figure to be Pro Bowlers in the near future. <br />
<br />
BenJarvis has a weird story because despite his production (4.2 YPC, 6 TD's in 8 starts), people don't think he can possibly be a long term option. They want the Patriots to draft Mark Ingram. They want more speed, more power, more talent. Well let me tell you something: BenJarvis gets the job done, and he gets it done well. He has had a few duds (NYJ, Bal, SD, Cle), but he has also won us a couple of games (Buf, Min), and he never fumbles (Laurence Maroney, anyone?). He has 212 career rushes, and ZERO fumbles. He also very rarely loses yards. Green-Ellis knows that he is lucky to have this opportunity, and he has a terrific motor. He is always moving forward. Also, he is the perfect compliment to Danny "Woodchuck" Woodhead. Together they form a pretty formidable rushing duo. Just ask the Steelers defense who let up more than 85 yards rushing for the first time all season on Sunday night.<br />
<br />
The last thing I want to discuss before I get to my predictions for Week 11 is how terrific coaching, leadership and an emphasis on teamwork, has led to the Patriots success.<br />
<br />
First things first. Bill Belichick is doing one hell of a job. People were calling for his head after last season. They questioned him for his fourth and two call, they said he was trying to do too much. He's the Head Coach, the Offensive Coordinator <i>and</i> the Defensive Coordinator? Is that even possible?<br />
<br />
Well, the short answer is a resounding YES. With all of the turmoil both offensively and defensively, Belichick has done an unbelievably good job of keeping things simple (for the rookies) while simultaneously adding new wrinkles to the offensive and defensive game plans. The offense, aside from the seemingly devastating loss of Randy Moss, lost OL Nick Kaczur, RB Kevin Falk, and was missing holdout Logan Mankins until Week 9. On defense, there was the loss of veteran leader Ty Warren, number one CB Leigh Bodden and last year's surprise S Brandon McGowan. There was also problems with inconsistency from last year's starters Brandon Meriweather, Tully Banta Cain and Darius Butler. All of this meant nothing to Belichick and the Patriots who have made no excuses.<br />
<br />
One of his greatest accomplishments this season was his ability to dispose all locker room distractions without missing a beat. He has turned the Patriots into a team in the truest sense. Besides Tom Brady, there really are no superstars (Vince Wilfork maybe?) on the team, but this just gives all of the players someone to look up too. Brady handles business like a true professional, and as he showed Sunday night, he is willing to go to war for each and every one of the players in his locker room. There are no excuses, no distractions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAQ-9CwMWvTSeNBGvjAfcgF9px5Stq75cFvT3SwKfu26SmckGYsi5tFCyOhcK-6qbcbJO00y1q4j4JvyY9DP7c_4B4wO1oWcKMO3beD53RdJCzsfWuNzxRgM4598h4TUWKCUGm1lGaWY/s1600/belichick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAQ-9CwMWvTSeNBGvjAfcgF9px5Stq75cFvT3SwKfu26SmckGYsi5tFCyOhcK-6qbcbJO00y1q4j4JvyY9DP7c_4B4wO1oWcKMO3beD53RdJCzsfWuNzxRgM4598h4TUWKCUGm1lGaWY/s320/belichick.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All Hail the KING!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Despite years of brilliance from the mind of Bill Belichick, he continues to amaze with his preparation, game planning and ability to squeeze everything out of each of his players. The eventual loss of Belichick will have the same affect on this franchise as the loss of a superstar QB. There are only 1 or 2 other coaches in the world who you can say that about. Long live King Belichick.<br />
<br />
With all of that said, the Patriots still have a long way to go this season. It is a wide open year in the NFL, and the Patriots are one of the favorites, but they must improve their third down defense and pass defense if they want to compete into February. If the defense continues to improve at its current rate, and Tom Brady stays healthy, the Patriots will have a legitimate chance to win the Super Bowl. Get pumped! These next few months are going to be very enjoyable.<br />
<br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
From now on, I'm only going to pick a few of the best games from the weekend.<br />
Here goes nothing:<br />
<br />
Oakland @ <b>Pittsburgh</b><br />
<br />
I don't think this is such a tough call, even though this is one of the more important games this weekend. Pittsburgh doesn't lose two in a row at Heinz Field, so despite Oakland playing its best ball in decades, I think Pitt will win a close one.<br />
Pit 30 Oak 23<br />
<br />
Houston @ <b>NYJ</b><br />
<br />
Another easy one. The Jets are coming off their second best win of the year, and Houston is coming off their worst loss. Houston has NO defense and have lacked consistency on offense, while the Jets have been a top defense and a mediocre offense. Look for a big game from LT. If the Jets can shut down Arian Foster, this will be a rout.<br />
NYJ 27 Hou 17<br />
<br />
Green Bay @ <b>Minnesota </b><br />
<br />
Favre's final game against Green Bay is going to be a fun one. I expect Minnesota to play well at home, knowing this is Favre's last game against his former employer. Green Bay will probably be favored, and they certainly have earned it. Clay Mathews has been unstoppable all season (not something you usually say about a defensive player), and Aaron Rodgers is getting into a nice offensive flow. This will surprisingly be a defensive struggle.<br />
Minn 23 GB 21<br />
<br />
<b>Atlanta </b>@ St. Louis<br />
<br />
Atlanta is on a roll, so despite a really strong urge to pick the upset, I'm sticking with them. St. Louis lost a tough one in SF last week, but look pretty strong with Sam Bradford under center. Atlanta doesn't usually play well on the road, but I think they are playing too well to lose to an inferior team.<br />
Atl 31 STL 24<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkwsCB_G6NcTI99FlSbr1kYAdmxt4ZnlNjVGtugGUCKhllc-nWp8N8plTjPYMgYj_07eRa80ISV7aicMUY_slENKxeFCVUN_z1SPyEFAuIChAU3c3_zda03T_GL3fPPUm29QAD99xo0c/s1600/Manning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkwsCB_G6NcTI99FlSbr1kYAdmxt4ZnlNjVGtugGUCKhllc-nWp8N8plTjPYMgYj_07eRa80ISV7aicMUY_slENKxeFCVUN_z1SPyEFAuIChAU3c3_zda03T_GL3fPPUm29QAD99xo0c/s200/Manning.jpg" width="170" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Never take a Peyton Manning-led team lightly. Ever.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Indy @ <b>NE </b><br />
<br />
I don't expect this to be easy by any means. The Patriots are going to have to play close to perfect to beat Peyton Manning, but I think they'll do it. This is going to be epic.<br />
NE 34 Indy 30<br />
<br />
NYG @ <b>Phi</b><br />
<br />
<b> </b>Philly is coming off its best game of the season, and have played great two weeks in a row. Vick is getting a ton of publicity as an MVP candidate, so let's see what he can do against the Giants' fast, experienced defense. Expect Manning to throw the ball a lot to his favorite trio (Nicks, Smith, Manningham). This might just be a preview of the NFC Championship game. And what a game it will be.<br />
Phi 37 NYG 34Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-57543788934452866842010-11-15T16:49:00.000-05:002010-11-16T14:02:35.776-05:00Another strange week in the NFL, another Pats victory at Heinz Field<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlhEK7gIUp6wUvxmBf9g-ZVK48_MwlB9Y3huJCIr5TtshMrHiypkYPy8KX5KE3ipxpJK1r4fNCCNI_KlBd3hlufyGnpiLtsDmMcdoICh7jdr31bDRmV7ZdZ8Z3dwJMq5_oUjvoyqDA1A/s1600/dalasimages.jpg"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpcKnn8M_p1Y49wJFpVhMrkEAscreLw0Cd7G2GZ5PzBJfbqobEYKEhrAQFHYucQYbJwxsTa2WOhOjc8c78cNu0wClV74KuBRpBlyBqQhkP8znyhvAPZn2Zm2LlxGdQq3mmeuO0Bu-Qz8/s1600/dallasimages.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 326px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpcKnn8M_p1Y49wJFpVhMrkEAscreLw0Cd7G2GZ5PzBJfbqobEYKEhrAQFHYucQYbJwxsTa2WOhOjc8c78cNu0wClV74KuBRpBlyBqQhkP8znyhvAPZn2Zm2LlxGdQq3mmeuO0Bu-Qz8/s400/dallasimages.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540025114244081730" border="0" /></a><br />Last time, I told you about how I heard three different so called "experts" pick three different top teams in the NFL. Those teams? The Baltimore Ravens, NY Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers. The Ravens led off the week with a tough loss in the Georgia Dome where Matt Ryan doesn't lose (18-1 at home in career), the Giants were exposed at home by Jon Kitna and the Cowboys in the shocker of the week, and the Steelers got their "butt whooped" (Big Ben's words, not mine) by the Pats at home in Prime Time.<br /><br />What a weird season.<br /><br />For the first time ever (I think) Peter King left his top spot <span style="font-style: italic;">vacant</span> in his weekly power rankings! I mean have you ever seen anything like this? When I said that the NFL was like LOST, I didn't expect <span style="font-style: italic;">this</span> to happen! The Jets are inexcusably 5-1 Super Bowl favorites, but after them there are FIVE teams who have 8-1 odds (with the Colts right behind at 9-1):<br /><a href="http://www.footballlocks.com/nfl_futures_odds.shtml">http://www.footballlocks.com/nfl_futures_odds.shtml</a><br />In case you were wondering, the T-Ocho Show Bengals are at 1,000-1 odds.<br /><br />I think it's time for everyone to shelve their "who's the best team" predictions for a few weeks, because like King writes, we have an absolutely awesome schedule for the remainder of the season, and we should just enjoy it:<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/11/14/monday-morning-qb-week-10/index.html?eref=sihp">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/11/14/monday-morning-qb-week-10/index.html?eref=sihp</a> (power rankings on page 3)<br /><br />Enough about NFL strangeness. What a week! We had a ridiculous Hail Mary victory, a team that rose from the dead thanks to their new coach, and two astounding beatdowns during Prime Time. On to my NFL observations from week 10 (I'll do Pats-Steelers, Jets-Browns, Giants-Cowboys separately):<br /><br />1) Mike Vick fever! He is a legitimate MVP candidate. He has the Eagles offense humming, leading the league in QB Rating, and even crazier, he has yet to throw an interception! In the four games he has played from start to finish, the Eagles are 4-0, and if he would have started the home opener against Green Bay, he would probably be 5-0. Like I said last week, he really is incorporating the Old Vick- the running back who played quarterback- with the New Vick- who can throw all day. After tonight's game, he has 11 passing touchdowns, 4 rushing touchdowns and a QB rating over 110. Simply said, he has been spectacular. The Eagles are looking better and better each week, and this week's 31 point drubbing of the Redskins puts them in a very good position for the Playoffs. Next week's showdown with the Giants on Sunday Night is going to be a doozy.<br /><br />2) For those fortunate enough to watch it (damn NFL network), the Atlanta-Baltimore clash was great. Atlanta looked like it might run away with it, until Joe Flacco went into terminator mode and started hitting guys left and right. He brought them all the way back, and they lead 21-20 after Flacco's TD toss to veteran TE Todd Heap with a minute remaining. Then came the magic, um, sort of. Thanks to a VERY questionable "no-call," Roddy White got away from Ravens CB Josh Wilson and grabbed the game winning TD pass. Not to take anything away from White, who had another unbelievable game, or Matty "Ice" Ryan, who is fully recovered from last year's injury/sophomore slump, but that sure looked like a push off to me:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBVuTeNfsX4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBVuTeNfsX4</a><br />Either way, these are two extremely good teams who are vying for playoff byes. Lucky Falcons, unlucky Ravens. (Side note- doesn't it always feel like the Ravens don't get these 50-50 calls? After all of their games Ray Lewis seems to be complaining about the refs.)<br /><br />3) Peyton Manning just keeps chugging along. After all the injuries, Manning somehow keeps this team competitive. If he can steal a win in Gillette this weekend, he is the MVP- no questions asked. He has turned Jacob Tamme into a Pro Bowl caliber TE, and has a 16-4 TD:INT ratio.<br /><br />4) So long Brett Favre. It was nice knowin ya.<br /><br />5) Chad Pennington. Chad Henne. Tyler Thigpen. Brandon Marshall. All four of them attempted passes in Sunday's impressive 30-19 victory over the Tennessee Titans. Only one (Marshall) was a trick play. The Dolphins had the vaunted "top two quarterbacks go down for the season" game. Henne may not be done, but it might not matter. Thigpen is one of the best 3rd quarterbacks in the game, and he can't possibly make this offense any more putrid. Kicker Dan Carpenter had another three field goal attempts on Sunday, giving him 25 for the season (or, the same amount as he had in 16 games in 2008, and just three less than all of last season). The Dolphins are still alive in this crazy NFL season, but if they want to squeak into the playoffs, they NEED to score more TD's.<br /><br />6) What a crazy finish in Jacksonville. For those who haven't seen it yet, this is the reason teams try hail mary's instead of 70 yard field goals:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpFyjJZ5Db0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpFyjJZ5Db0</a><br /><br />7) Congrats to both Buffalo and Detroit. Buffalo on breaking their 8 game losing streak, thanks to possibly the worst 2 point attempt in NFL history:<br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010111406/2010/REG10/lions@bills#tab:watch">http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010111406/2010/REG10/lions@bills#tab:watch</a><br />Congrats to Detroit for breaking their own record of most games lost on the road in a row (25 and counting). Another absolutely astounding statistic from tonight's game- Dave Rayner's field goal for Detroit was their first field goal made by a kicker not named "Jason Hanson" in 19 seasons. 19!<br /><br />Now let's go over three more terrific games. We'll start with Giants-Cowboys.<br /><br />1) Is it possible that Wade Phillips deflated the entire team with his lack of emotion (he's been dead for a few years now- Simmons likes to joke how he could never possibly lose a blinking contest)?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlhEK7gIUp6wUvxmBf9g-ZVK48_MwlB9Y3huJCIr5TtshMrHiypkYPy8KX5KE3ipxpJK1r4fNCCNI_KlBd3hlufyGnpiLtsDmMcdoICh7jdr31bDRmV7ZdZ8Z3dwJMq5_oUjvoyqDA1A/s1600/dalasimages.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 192px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlhEK7gIUp6wUvxmBf9g-ZVK48_MwlB9Y3huJCIr5TtshMrHiypkYPy8KX5KE3ipxpJK1r4fNCCNI_KlBd3hlufyGnpiLtsDmMcdoICh7jdr31bDRmV7ZdZ8Z3dwJMq5_oUjvoyqDA1A/s400/dalasimages.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540025929880918066" border="0" /></a>(The "no blinking, I might be dead" face, made famous by Al Davis)<br />Jason Garrett, with the help of superfreak Dez Bryant, brought the Cowboys to life. After the last few weeks, people (me included), assumed the G-Men would steam roll the lifeless Boys'. Not so. Jon Kitna made some beautiful throws, Dez Bryant and Felix Jones made some big plays, and the Giants comeback fell just short- making it all the more frustrating that this team is a pathetic 2-7. They just outplayed possibly the best team in the NFC on their turf, but it is too late now. They had all the talent they needed, just not the right coach to manage that talent. If Garrett even gets 6 wins out of this team, I say he deserves the job for next season. The players seemed genuinely fired up to play for a guy with some passion.<br /><br />2) There was a string of plays in the fourth quarter which effectively ended the game. Manning had the Giants offense moving, down 13, with 7 and a half minutes left. He made a beautiful deep throw to Hakeem Nicks, who hauled it in and zoomed into the endzone for the score. Unfortunately, there was a holding call after Manning released the pass, and the play was called back. The next play was a fumbled snap recovered by Dallas, and the game was over. Tough break. Had that play counted, the G-Men probably would have had a shot to win it with 3 or 4 minutes left. (<a href="http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010111408/2010/REG10/cowboys@giants#tab:watch">http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010111408/2010/REG10/cowboys@giants#tab:watch</a>-3:30 in)<br /><br />3) Dez Bryant is a beast. His two catches on their first drive were both spectacular- showing off his speed, length, hands and big play ability. The Cowboys will most likely get a high pick in the NFL draft this April, and if they can get someone with even half the talent of Dez, they are going to be dangerous next season.<br /><br />On to the other NY team. J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets.<br /><br />1) Chansi Stuckey. WHY! The Browns, with the help of the immortal Nick Folk, were a couple of plays away from sealing the victory before Chansi's ridiculous fumble at the 32 yard line in OT. Obviously he was just trying to get a couple extra yards, but how do you fumble the ball that close to the sidelines! Step out of bounds! Hold the ball with two hands! Do <span style="font-style: italic;">something</span>! Besides for the fumble, Stuckey also lost the Browns chances of upsetting a top team for the third week in a row. Tough break.<br /><br />2) I've been reading all day about how Mark Sanchez is a warrior and how he put the team on his back. About how after his calf injury he battled and toughed out the rest of the game. Is all of that true? Maybe. We will get to that in a second. How about a little love for Colt McCoy. He has been fantastic in his three games as starter against arguably the two toughest defenses (Jets, Steelers) and the best defensive mind in the game (Belichick). He definitely was having trouble in the second half generating offense, but honestly, I think he is already as good as Sanchez. I'm not just saying that because I hate the Jets and Sanchez with a passion. I truly believe it. There is something about him, he just makes it happen (Simmons brought a great parallel between him and Tom Brady in his first year as a starter). He doesn't make mistakes (Sanchez makes too many), and is a real playmaker back there with his scrambles and roll outs. Did I mention that Sanchez is playing with Keller, Holmes, Edwards, LT and Shonn Greene, while McCoy is playing with Hillis and Josh Cribbs (best known as a punt returner). He is going to be a great quarterback one day.<br /><br />3) Sanchize. Great game by him. Definitely showed me something by playing through the injury, and playing pretty well too. He missed Keller downfield one play which I thought was a throw he should have been able to make, but overall he was pretty good. With the exception of the dropped interception at the 2 yard line, I thought he did a good job limiting his mistakes. One thing I've noticed the last few weeks was that Sanchez's problems were stemming from the fact that the Jets running game couldn't really get going. When the running game works, Sanchez is great with the play action and getting down the middle of the field to Keller. Without the running game, he sort of morphed into last season's version of himself- this game bucked that trend. I honestly believe that he is the only weak link on this whole team. If the Jets had a mediocre quarterback, they would basically be unstoppable. Sanchez must step up his game or the Jets are going to be watching someone else play in Dallas in February.<br />(Quick rant- I think if the Jets are going to win a Super Bowl, it is going to be this year. They aren't getting another year like this from LT, and Braylon and Santonio are both on one year deals. It is now or never boys, let's see what you got.)<br /><br />Now let's get to the good stuff- Pats-Steelers:<br /><br />1) Tom Brady! Wow! Where the hell did that come from? After one of his worst games in the past few years against the Browns, Brady let out his anger in a big way on the poor Pittsburgh Steelers. Brady had 350 yards and four total touchdowns, three passing to Spike from "The Little Giants" look-alike Rob Gronkowski.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-2DkzUatfTYxuBbk24c4KrjNtmkaGHUiaNWGrJP9TvDXOkspr61AB5w-5OQl5CIE4hsUaudnOkwuPlA75VG5NS9gErpfpR5t8lpLpRW_ZFYj-KD-d3xe0ZLqSDD5RHtPuNegBHQU4k4/s1600/spike.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 236px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-2DkzUatfTYxuBbk24c4KrjNtmkaGHUiaNWGrJP9TvDXOkspr61AB5w-5OQl5CIE4hsUaudnOkwuPlA75VG5NS9gErpfpR5t8lpLpRW_ZFYj-KD-d3xe0ZLqSDD5RHtPuNegBHQU4k4/s400/spike.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540013694512223602" border="0" /></a>Brady made all the throws he wasn't making last week, and he just ripped apart what was thought to be one of the best defenses in football. Not this week. Brady's first touchdown to Gronkowski and his long ball to Brandon Tate were especially good looking throws, putting it only where his guy could make a play. Moreso than the Ravens game a few weeks ago (which inspired Dan Shaughnessy to write a column about the Super Bowl winning Patriots from the early 2000's) this was vintage Tom Brady. He always found the open man, and spread the ball around well. He also got rid of the ball quickly, something that is key against pass rushing maestros Lawrence Timmons and James Harrison. You all have probably seen the clip of Brady ripping into the offense in the second quarter about playing a perfect game in order to beat a team like the Steelers- this is the reason he is who he is, and why he has won so many Super Bowls. He is the unquestioned leader of this team, and he lets each and every member of his team know that he is willing to go to war for them. He made this point very clear with his exclamation point (and extremely rare) 3 yard sneak which was made possible by Brady's ability to diagnose defenses at the line of scrimmage. He noticed a linebacker shift, and called his own number from pretty far out, something I don't recall him doing since his touchdown against Oakland in the Snow Bowl. Both TD's ended with emphatic slams by a pumped up Brady. I'm glad to see you again Mr. Brady. (Brady highlights- <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RS5eI9fBU4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RS5eI9fBU4</a>)<br /><br />2) As good as Brady was, the offensive line may have been better.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjgetqLAAR7BT8p22e6v48N5o1kTfzzQjUx4sUC4OK6RYoEUNzu4gxHujGrY6ljV_q_sZh9JlQoTgQkUpSgfcOK11n_vXyBs9zfzNYTnnupk-YNLEMnlxngkelDdZCn9_SEa0pFTJdCE/s1600/oline.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 297px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjgetqLAAR7BT8p22e6v48N5o1kTfzzQjUx4sUC4OK6RYoEUNzu4gxHujGrY6ljV_q_sZh9JlQoTgQkUpSgfcOK11n_vXyBs9zfzNYTnnupk-YNLEMnlxngkelDdZCn9_SEa0pFTJdCE/s400/oline.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540027135610050114" border="0" /></a>(Just imagine Sebastion Vollmer instead of Nick Kazcur. Much better.)<br />They kept Brady clean all night. Alge Crumpler had a huge game helping out with (and sometimes single covering) James Harrison, and Matt Light and Sebastion Vollmer held their sides well, giving Brady passing lanes to the outside for Branch and Welker. Also, Woody Woodchuck made some great blocks on delayed blitzes from the ferocious Steelers linebackers.<br /><br />3) I said it last week, and I'll say it again- Pat Chung is HUGE for this defense. He started off the season against the Bengals flying around and really setting the tone. We are fast, we will tackle, and we will even make some big hits for the heck of it. With Chung missing, the Pats got destroyed by Peterson in the first half (though they stiffened in the second half) and got dominated by the powerful Peyton Hillis last week. Although Chung went down a couple of times, he played most of the game and looked absolutely fantastic. His blitzes off the end were a new wrinkle to the defense, and he ended the game with a team high 11 tackles (along with rookie phenom Devin McCourty who had a tough day against speedster Mike Wallace). The play where he came all the way around and tackled Mendenhall after only a couple of yards showed off his speed and tackling ability. He is going to be great for years to come (Please god, let him stay healthy. Don't turn him into the next perennial pro bowler/ perennially injured Bob Sanders. Please!)<br /><br />4) Hines Ward means a lot to the Pittsburgh offense. I gotta admit, if he was in there, they probably punch a couple of those red zone attempts into the endzone, instead of settling for field goals (or missed field goals-<a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5810033">http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5810033</a>- awkward). Instead, he remained on the sidelines, and the Steelers receivers dropped a handful of catchable balls in the endzone, while the Pats pulled away. They got a hang of it in the fourth, but it was just too little too late.<br /><br />5) Tully Banta-Cain is back! After starting the season as mostly a sub package rusher, the last few weeks TBC worked his way back into the rotation. This week showed us why. He abused LT Tony Hillis, on his way to a 1.5 sack night with a whole bunch of quarterback hurries. Aside from TBC, Mike Wright and Gary Guyton had big nights. Wright had great interior pressure against phenomenal rookie Center Maurkice Pouncey (a rookie of the year candidate despite his position) accumulating 1.5 sacks as well, and blew up the pocket a few times. Guyton was especially good in the first quarter when he had a nice knockdown and a sack. The Pats are going to need production out of these lesser known players if they want to be successful against high powered offenses like the Packers and Colts.<br /><br />6) The Patriots are going to have some problems with new Kicker Shayne Graham. Yea, it was only one week, but you just can't miss extra points. His 36 yard field goal looked shaky as well. He needs to become reliable, or the Patriots are going to be in trouble when they get into fourth down situations at the opponents 35 yard line area. Do you risk the kick? Or just go for it? We all remember in Super Bowl 42 when the Pats went for it on 4th and 11 instead of just letting Gostkowski kick a 50 yard field goal. We don't want that again. Hopefully he fixes his problems, the Pats are going to need every point they can get come playoff time against the tough defenses in the AFC (Bal, NYJ, Pitt).<br /><br />7) That was a huge statement victory for the Patriots. They have a brutal schedule the rest of the way, and are going to need some confidence in order to fight through it with success. There are tough home games against Indy, NYJ and GB, with tough games in Chicago, Detroit (never underestimate a Thanksgiving opponent) and Buffalo (who almost beat us at home, and plays us very tough at Ralph Wilson in the winter). The goal would be to secure a bye in the playoffs, but I think we would all love to see home field advantage throughout.<br /><br />I don't think it is so far fetched a goal in this wacky year in the NFL.Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-39564114742600339902010-11-10T17:03:00.000-05:002010-11-14T11:55:10.219-05:00NFL Midseason Report: The crowded push towards the playoffs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mUsNNLniO9F2uPsktGH17D28JSsD49m7Q5InP7d2Wy9F-vccynAZglS2eoKt_z5yD5dVudyQEQYKI8N3lW6wRQNyjWj4CmyyE1nCCOBNh7y9VdPCpJ438gDVY375Sm3AoEJZXbrNH-I/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mUsNNLniO9F2uPsktGH17D28JSsD49m7Q5InP7d2Wy9F-vccynAZglS2eoKt_z5yD5dVudyQEQYKI8N3lW6wRQNyjWj4CmyyE1nCCOBNh7y9VdPCpJ438gDVY375Sm3AoEJZXbrNH-I/s400/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539241462884923474" border="0" /></a><br />LOST is one of my favorite TV shows of all time. I obsessed over it for years, plowing through hundreds of thousands of articles and theories. I spent hours discussing it with my friends, and even bought a few T-Shirts.<br /><br />Sound familiar?<br /><br />It sounds a whole lot like the life of a die hard sports fan to me. Besides for the actual games, we spend hours watching ESPN, we read every article on our favorite website by our favorite writer, and we waste an inordinate amount of time discussing/arguing with our friends about it. By buying jerseys and season tickets, we have turned sports from "entertainment" into a business (How many times have you heard a player get traded or not get the contract he wants and say, "Hey, it's just a business.").<br /><br />Anyway, the point of this whole parallel isn't only the similarity of fans of LOST and fans of sports. This NFL season is a lot like LOST in another way: unpredictability. You think you know what is going to happen next? Well, sorry, the Island just disappeared. You think you know who the best team is? Yea? It's the Patriots, they are 6-1, good for best in the NFL! Nope! They just got smoked by the Cleveland Browns! Peyton Hillis, a former 3rd string fullback (is that even a position!?), gashed a defense that had just finished limiting two of the best running backs in the game in Ray Rice and Adrien Peterson.<br /><br />I was watching some ESPN Thursday night, and in a four minute span, I saw three so called "experts" pick THREE different teams as the number one team in the league right now. One picked the Giants, one the Ravens, and another the Steelers. At this point, making a pick is just silly, because chances are, that team is going to get knocked off in its next game. With that said, I am going to try and take some of the top teams and compare them to some of my favorite characters of my favorite show:<br /><br />Jack Shepard (Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh Steelers):<br /><br />They are the veteran leaders. They have been there, done that, and despite some bumps in the road, are probably the best bet to be the last man (team) standing. Like Jack, Roethlisberger has had some troubles dealing with success off the field/Island. (From Wikipedia: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Off the field, Roethlisberger has been involved in high-profile incidents, including a nearly fatal motorcycle accident in 2006 and sexual assault allegations in Lake Tahoe</span><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> in 2008 and in Milledgville, Georgia in 2010. Neither allegation resulted in charges being filed. However, the latter act resulted in Roethlisberger being suspended for six games (reduced to four) under the NFL's personal conduct policy for the start of the 2010 season------</span>from Lostpedia: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Off-island, Jack laid his father to rest and proposed to Kate, but visits from John Locke and his father's ghost sent him toward depression and substance abuse. Jack began drinking regularly. Jack succumbed to depression and substance abuse, and his hospital suspended him. He began </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">flying across the Pacific every weekend</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> hoping it would crash, returning him to the island or killing him. When he heard Locke had killed himself, Jack tried calling Kate then almost leaped off an L.A. bridge, distracting </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">a driver he then had to save from the ensuing crash. A doctor</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> refused to let him operate on the passenger he'd saved, and when a </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">pharmacist denied him painkillers, even when he forged a prescription from his father</span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://lostpedia.wikia.com/wiki/Christian" title="Christian" class="mw-redirect"></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">, the same doctor caught him trying to steal drugs.</span>) Truly an uncanny comparison.<br /><br />John Locke (Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots):<br /><br />Started off as a likeable character, sort of an underdog, and slowly but surely morphed into a killer black smoke monster. Belichick is surely a Man of Science. He believes that the individual doesn't matter- just play your role. If you work as a cohesive unit, you will be successful. This season, Belichick has eliminated the locker room cancers (<a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=adande_ja&page=cancers-101103">http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=adande_ja&page=cancers-101103</a>) alright, fine Adande, you win. Belichick has eliminated all the egos in the locker room (that works) like Randy Moss, Laurence Maroney and Adalius Thomas. With Moss especially, Belichick moved with the swiftness of the black smoke's attack on Eko in season 3 (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXHfHZZMxYw">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXHfHZZMxYw</a>). That will teach all future Patriots: do not mess with Belichick's team chemistry- he will get you.<br /><br />James "Sawyer" Ford (Ray Lewis and the Baltimore Ravens):<br /><br />Like Ford, the Ravens are considered a main character, but they are not quite on the same level as Jack or Locke. Also like Ford, Ray Lewis is a bad, bad man (who has no problem killing someone- <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRmK-1wDUig">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRmK-1wDUig</a>- OK, that was a low blow. Still, he killed a man- <a href="http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/sports_issues/40799">http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/sports_issues/40799</a> - by the way, "Ray Lewis murder" had 1.84 million results on Google. Not a good sign.)<br /><br />Jacob (Al Davis and the Oakland Raiders):<br /><br />The only similarities here are that both Jacob and Al have been alive for centuries and at this point no one really knows if they are dead or not.<br /><br />Walt Lloyd (Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles):<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPH7y0AtT6I">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPH7y0AtT6I</a><br />Nuff' said. (Too soon?)<br /><br />Richard Alpert (Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings):<br />For those who don't know, Richard's character never aged. His appearance barely changed throughout the course of the show- which spanned about 200 years.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrdsySL-9LSQ61ZFG2WgX7boLEWVkyGFOcZpPOMtWO8lljMHjoTkdHo5t7IC7QI9ovN4iT6aSumpNFui-kJee5AUXXI5s00ZTBHAH11AWh0O_Modnlf_DeWdwbcccJTesZ5YC8feYgrA/s1600/brett-favre1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrdsySL-9LSQ61ZFG2WgX7boLEWVkyGFOcZpPOMtWO8lljMHjoTkdHo5t7IC7QI9ovN4iT6aSumpNFui-kJee5AUXXI5s00ZTBHAH11AWh0O_Modnlf_DeWdwbcccJTesZ5YC8feYgrA/s200/brett-favre1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539226369626870306" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQng_9HHtlkT1mqc-8_E1nigRb3QuuPpi9f1jkdvT1M5yJS6yVb5Dk5huvtR1gjM-t1MAwm5UNcy3lr5E9_l3XB9_q7sNuPseKFELGZoTNkZDBi-n_gKd8Vxch5xYa_0gmrc43tKHjSQ/s1600/images3.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQng_9HHtlkT1mqc-8_E1nigRb3QuuPpi9f1jkdvT1M5yJS6yVb5Dk5huvtR1gjM-t1MAwm5UNcy3lr5E9_l3XB9_q7sNuPseKFELGZoTNkZDBi-n_gKd8Vxch5xYa_0gmrc43tKHjSQ/s200/images3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539226607456441586" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlH8va_0e0tOgYDSVqee-8Vl2PHS2zNW9w50IqpWsjYIv1aFtruKkEoCWya6KmYdkeAWoQmr4euy5LhqOcyQxwd2vt9fnLM-rrI_u63aYl6PW7sNoHvdU6UK5Bmjs6iFwGe9gHnpD9o4/s1600/images2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlH8va_0e0tOgYDSVqee-8Vl2PHS2zNW9w50IqpWsjYIv1aFtruKkEoCWya6KmYdkeAWoQmr4euy5LhqOcyQxwd2vt9fnLM-rrI_u63aYl6PW7sNoHvdU6UK5Bmjs6iFwGe9gHnpD9o4/s200/images2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539226493147272578" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />OK. Enough LOST. Plus, half of that probably didn't make sense.<br /><br />On to the picks!<br /><br />Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears<br /><br />Vikings should win. The Bears are somehow 5-3. You do the math.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vikings</span> 27 Bears 23<br /><br />NY Jets @ Cleveland Browns<br /><br />I would do ANYTHING for the Browns to win this game. We saw what they could do last week, and I really hate the Jets. If the Browns can shut down Tom Brady, they can sure as hell shut down Mark Sanchez. Let's see if they can score enough to win- this is my upset of the week.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cleveland</span> 17 Jets 16<br /><br />Cincinnati Bengals @ Indianapolis Colts<br /><br />Easy. Colts ALL DAY.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Indy</span> 30 Cinci 20<br /><br />Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars<br /><br />Tough game to call, because both teams run so hot and cold. But if there is anything we have learned in the past few years, it is that Houston always sucks you back into their trap after a couple of horrible losses. They are due for a win that makes everyone go "let me tell you something, those Houston Texans are going to be very good when they put everything together" (Let me save you the trouble. They won't.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Houston</span> 33 Jacksonville 24<br /><br />Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins<br /><br />Overrated Titans (because of Moss), underrated Dolphins (people are overlooking Chad Pennington. I think.) I smell upset.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dolphins</span> 23 Titans 20<br /><br />Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers<br /><br />The Panthers are SO bad. Also, Bucs need a bounce back after their heart breaker last week. They are gonna win big.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bucs</span> 34 Panthers 13<br /><br />Detroit Lions @ Buffalo Bills<br /><br />A surprisingly watcheable game. Ryan Fitzpatrick to Steve Johnson has been a great hookup the last few weeks, and the Lions really came to play last week against a big time opponent. This might be one of the more exciting games this weekend. Too bad about Stafford, he looked fantastic the last couple of weeks. (Did I write "last" enough times that paragraph?)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bills</span> 26 Lions 23<br /><br />Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos<br /><br />The Broncos were underrated until they let up 60 points to the Raiders. The Chiefs remain underrated. Dwayne Bowe has got to stop dropping TD passes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chiefs</span> 27 Broncos 21<br /><br />Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals<br /><br />This is the type of game god makes so that people who try to predict games look like idiots. No idea what's going to happen. Possible Armageddon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cards</span> 34 Hawks 24<br /><br />NY Giants @ Dallas Cowboys<br /><br />I've been saying it for weeks: this Giants team is VERY similar to their 2007 championship squad. Except now, Eli Manning is a good quarterback, and he has some unbelievable weapons in Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith. They are going to be extremely tough to beat come playoff time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Giants</span> 41 Cowboys 17<br /><br />St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers<br /><br />Singletary is done after this year. It will be fun to see Troy Smith at the helm, he was a fun player to watch back at THE Ohio State University.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rams</span> 27 49ers 17<br /><br />New England Patriots @ Pittsburgh Steelers<br /><br />Brady is 5-1 against Pittsburgh, and the Steelers lost their LT and may be without James Harrison. And I'm a Patriots fan.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pats</span> 27 Steelers 24<br /><br />Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins<br /><br />When your quarterback doesn't know the 2 minute offense AND has problems staying in shape, you are probably going to lose. The Eagles are definitely for real, that was a huge win against Indy last week. Mike Vick for MVP!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eagles</span> 30 Redskins 20Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-53262423284750535042010-11-08T12:50:00.000-05:002010-11-09T00:50:31.138-05:00The "Trap Game" that was bound to happen, and thank god for the Celtics<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn20XoSxdBw0IYg-zZKgw74m1UK6BXKx6gMezDSx9nQGfJ5ThoBN-TfPaJcHdZkJhzzKR3pGk72g9OlHBEPkWv4BnkIDZThUXIu-Ict8B88-S3e0h5beS-UeGnhfuBRcB1wbO3wkd8GCg/s1600/endofworldimages.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 201px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn20XoSxdBw0IYg-zZKgw74m1UK6BXKx6gMezDSx9nQGfJ5ThoBN-TfPaJcHdZkJhzzKR3pGk72g9OlHBEPkWv4BnkIDZThUXIu-Ict8B88-S3e0h5beS-UeGnhfuBRcB1wbO3wkd8GCg/s400/endofworldimages.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537386883808844514" border="0" /></a>This isn't the end of the world.<br /><br />The Patriots lost the trap game of all trap games to the Cleveland Browns. I do not intend to take away anything from the Browns. They outplayed, out-coached and out-tricked us on Sunday. They deserved to win.<br /><br />But eventually, all the Patriots "luck" was going to run out. Despite their 6-1 record (at the time) I don't think anyone, die-hard Pats fans included, thought that the Patriots were the best team (talent-wise) in the NFL. They were the best <span style="font-style: italic;">team </span>though. They had no superduperstars aside from Tom Brady and Vince Wilfork, who, despite immense talents, were also the emotional leaders of the offense and defense. They took on their roles as team leaders, and they made no excuses (Much like the rest of the team, who followed their lead). Our running backs were completely unknown (the LawFirm, and Woody Woodchuck), we had a bunch of scrappy, hard working receivers, and a very, very young defense. Our offense scored by taking what the defense gave it (and a little help from Tom Brady's golden arm), and the defense took what the offense gave them, namely, the ball (especially against the Chargers and Vikings). We scraped out victories, and won games that we probably should have lost (Baltimore, anyone?).<br /><br />Finally, all of that came to an end. It was bound to happen. The Patriots botched a kick return (Gronkowski called for a fair catch, and then proceeded to move out of the way. What the F&*@?), fumbled on the goal line (Gronkowski, What the F&*@?) and got completely outsmarted on a bunch of beautifully executed trick plays (SICK fumble ruschi-type play by Josh Cribbs and Chansi Stuckey. That was one slick maneuver.)<br /><br />Coming off of an emotional victory against Randy Moss and the Vikings, and looking ahead to the showdown next weekend at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, this game had trap game written all over it. Mike Reiss reported that Belichick showed the New Orleans-Cleveland game a few times to the players (the Browns stunned the Saints 30-17 two weeks ago), cautioning them from taking the Browns too lightly. Maybe he should have pulled a Bill Parcells move and placed mice traps all over the locker room. Either way, the Patriots lost to an inferior team. It happens.<br /><br />I hate Eric Mangini.<br /><br />Some observations from the Browns beat down:<br />-----1) This is obvious to anyone who watched yesterday's game. Peyton Hillis is damn good. He looked like a mixture of Mike Alstott and Ray Rice. He is fast, he has good hands, and he is powerful beyond all belief. He also has great field vision (go watch his 3rd and 12 run towards the end of the fourth quarter which effectively ended the game. Great cutback) and athleticism (how about that leap over a Patriot defender on their first drive!?).<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEvlaVLsw0WaupXyfQMytgarsg0fjzQlvdtnUrmhmQiAtxdu87LA_m1tf1VLSU159wt4Mo9H4AWZP1igva_hNXq0C5A25qyDz8riNeRJoeBpLnRvF5DFIpUfhdmPoH2rM2XlVr9krl4s/s1600/hillisimages.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 197px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEvlaVLsw0WaupXyfQMytgarsg0fjzQlvdtnUrmhmQiAtxdu87LA_m1tf1VLSU159wt4Mo9H4AWZP1igva_hNXq0C5A25qyDz8riNeRJoeBpLnRvF5DFIpUfhdmPoH2rM2XlVr9krl4s/s400/hillisimages.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537387123231657522" border="0" /></a><br /><br />-----2)What the hell happened to the Patriots run defense? Against the Ravens, we completely shut down Ray Rice, limiting him to 3 yards a carry, and an 8 yard game long. Last week, Peterson started off hot, gashing the defense in the first half, but was slowed in the second half, and stood up on a couple of very important 3rd/4th and 1 yard tries. Maybe, besides Hillis being very good, the Browns offensive line is underrated. They sure seemed to be knocking guys in the mouth. On Colt McCoy's TD run, I saw about three guys who got absolutely walloped in pursuit of the Cleveland quarterback. Jerod, Brandon and Vince are going to have to step it up if the Pats want a chance against the Steelers next week.<br />-----3) Tom Brady looked terrible. His numbers weren't terrible, but that's why they say "numbers don't tell the whole story." He made a bunch of very low throws, and didn't seem to be on the same page as his receivers a bunch of times (may not be Brady's fault, but still). Again, he is going to need to be sharp if the Pats want to compete with Pitt next week.<br />-----4) Colt McCoy is the real deal. The Browns have been struggling for years to find a franchise quarterback. Derek Anderson had one good year with Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow, but he completely fell off the wagon. McCoy looks to be exactly what they were looking for. He has a strong arm, looks very poised under center, and has an uncanny ability to turn a broken play into a big play. He also doesn't shy from the spotlight, beating the Pats and Saints in two of his first three games as a pro (he also played pretty well against Pitt). After the Pittsburgh game, I said to keep an eye on him- now, he's got our full attention.<br />-----5) As much as I hate to say it, Mangini (and to a lesser extent- Josh McDaniels) own Belichick. They both have beaten Belichick's Patriots without nearly as much talent, solely by outsmarting their former mentor.<br />-----6) Aaron Hernandez broke the barrier. After leading the team in catches and yards, Hernandez was still taken lightly in the red zone, despite his size, because he had yet to catch a TD pass. Yesterday, he got his first two. Yea, the first one was a fluke. Who cares. It was still a great catch, which displayed both his great hands, instincts and length. The second one was more of a nicely executed play, with an easy throw and catch. Still, maybe this will open the flood gates. He is 6'4 and has baller ups, time to get him the ball in the endzone.<br />-----7) I really, really, really hope that Stephen Gostkowski is OK. We NEED him next week. If we have Wes Welker kicking field goals in the Heinz Field whirlwind, we will be in trouble (Mike Reiss did report that the Pats are looking at Shayne Graham- who used to be a pretty decent kicker).<br />-----8) Where is Patrick Chung!? After huge games against Miami (blocked punt, blocked field goal, interception return for TD) and Baltimore (13 tackles), Chung disappeared. We are being told it is a knee injury, and that he is day to day. I can't imagine he wouldn't have been helpful against Hillis this week, and we definitely will need him against Pitt next week.<br /><br />For all the talk about how horrible the Pats looked, and how far they've fallen, if they can win next week in Pittsburgh (I believe Brady is 5-1 lifetime against Pitt) all will be forgiven. I think they'll do it.<br /><br />Let's move on to one of the most frustrating games I have ever watched, Lions-Jets. Before I tell you how ridiculous it is that the Jets won this game, let me say this: they took advantage of the opportunities that were given (operative word being "given") to them by a weaker opponent, and won the game. They WON the game. It wasn't fluky or lucky. Good teams win games like this all the time. But let's look at the facts:<br />The Jets were aided by the loss of two extremely key players to in-game injuries. The first, kicker Jason Hanson, may have been worse than the loss of quarterback Mathew Stafford. If Hanson doesn't get injured, the Jets have to get to 21, not 20, and who knows if they get that 2 point conversion. [Quick Rant: Why in the hell is Ndamukong Suh kicking the extra point! (<a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Video-Lions-300-pound-rookie-Suh-attempts-ex;_ylt=AoMMgqchiPCFhiKjFt47LLk5nYcB?urn=nfl-283140">http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Video-Lions-300-pound-rookie-Suh-attempts-ex;_ylt=AoMMgqchiPCFhiKjFt47LLk5nYcB?urn=nfl-283140</a>)<br />I mean seriously!!! He is 300 pounds! I understand, you lose your kicker, you are going to have a random replacement. The Patriots, for example, lost their kicker. The replacement? Versatile receiver Wes Welker who played about 25 different positions on Texas Tech. For the Lions? It was their 23 year old DEFENSIVE TACKLE! HOW IS HE THE BEST REPLACEMENT! Your telling me that your 300 pound defensive tackle has a better chance at hitting an extra point than your punter! Really? How about someone a little more athletically suited (re: looks like a soccer player) like Calvin Johnson or Jahvid Best! Don't get me wrong, Suh is an athletic freak. But sending him out there for the extra point was one of the most ridiculous things I have ever seen in a football game. I literally checked twelve different websites to make sure that I was reading it right: "Suh missed XP"]<br />Secondly, if Stafford doesn't go down, maybe the Lions put together a couple of positive yardage plays at the end of the fourth and get the first down they need to seal the game. What was especially dumb was that third and six with Drew Stanton behind center. [Quick Rant #2: Why the HELL is Drew Stanton throwing there?! I don't think the Jets had any timeouts, and it was coming out of the two minute warning. And if you DO throw, don't you design a play during the timeout that is a guaranteed catch so the clock keeps moving- like a quick screen? Why would you do a play where a former third baseman runs around like a headless chicken and then whips it at his running back's feet? Why not just take the loss of 7 yards and the sack? At least it would keep the time moving!? Instead, the idiot makes a terrible throw, the time stops, and the Jets hit a field goal as time expires to bring it to overtime. I hate the NFL.]<br /><br />I guess that's why the Lions are the Lions, and the Jets are sitting atop the AFC East standings (Hold on while I give myself a paper cut). The Lions couldn't have tried any harder to give away that lead.<br /><br />A few other thoughts from around the NFL:<br />-----1) The Bucs were soooo close. They had a 4th and 1 at the 2 yard line, down by 6, and LaGarette Blount was stuffed. Great play by the Atlanta defense, especially Thomas Decoud: <a href="http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010110706/2010/REG9/buccaneers@falcons#tab:watch">http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010110706/2010/REG9/buccaneers@falcons#tab:watch</a><br />The Bucs are still contenders in a weak NFC, but after this tough loss, they are probably still a year away from being legitimate Super Bowl contenders. The future is bright.<br />-----2) Jacoby Ford fever!!! (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tgz2QqOd2vs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tgz2QqOd2vs</a>) This kid was absolutely unbelievable yesterday. The rookie erupted for 306 all purpose yards, with a few beautiful, clutch receptions and a gorgeous, explosive 94 yard kick return for a TD. The Raiders have really found their rhythm, and are gearing up for a potential playoff run (Wow. I can't believe I actually just wrote that. I am slightly shocked.)<br />-----3) I refuse to write about Brett Favre, but the Minnesota Vikings may have finally got the break they needed. After a few heart breakers at the hands of the Jets, Packers and Patriots, the Vikings were finally able to complete a comeback. They have great skill players on offense and defense, and if they can get hot, they are a team to watch in the NFC. Also, they get Favre's favorite target, Sidney Rice, back in the next couple of games (Hip Injury).<br />-----4) That Indy-Eagles game was just wild. Mike Vick, your current NFL leader in QB rating (again, hell has frozen over and the fat lady has sung), looked very good against a fast Indy defensive front. We saw the New Vick- on his absolute cannon to the concussed DeSean Jackson- and the Old Vick- on his vintage 32 yard run in the end of the third quarter which set up his one yard TD lunge. The Eagles and the Giants (after their 41-7 romp against poor Charlie Whitehurst) are the class of the NFC, and will probably see each other in the NFC championship game (side note: I don't think the Falcons are in the same class as these teams, they are too poor on the road to be a real Super Bowl contender. The Eagles and Giants are both proven winners, and I think that will show through come playoff time.)<br />-----5) Dallas. UGH. That was U-G-L-Y. Finally, Jerry Jones fired Wade Phillips, so there is a bright spot on this dark, dark season. I can't even imagine what is going to happen to the Cowboys' roster this offseason. I feel like it is going to spontaneously combust.<br />-----6) Here comes San Diego! I've been warning you about this for weeks, and the time has arrived. San Diego has turned the corner, and finally have their bye to get healthy. With V-Jax coming back for the stretch run, San Diego is going to be dangerous in the playoffs. Also, Phillip Rivers has been absolutely unstoppable this season. His most recent accomplishment: making Seyi Ajirotutu relevant for a week.<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2hMIy82scKAmwyTfxRRPgJjM_rprQ35M37NE321croLZNiPI69w6FNFnHHFxOgMChbBbM2cJp04oRqVD03jtTRkI-kCEvnN_CAeoAzXklTcKf0FL_VdS5kN5jKUZsNieN4Z40wp7JvxY/s1600/erdenimages.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 178px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2hMIy82scKAmwyTfxRRPgJjM_rprQ35M37NE321croLZNiPI69w6FNFnHHFxOgMChbBbM2cJp04oRqVD03jtTRkI-kCEvnN_CAeoAzXklTcKf0FL_VdS5kN5jKUZsNieN4Z40wp7JvxY/s400/erdenimages.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537388756435333314" border="0" /></a><br />First things first. <span style="font-style: italic;">Mea Culpa</span> on the Semih Erden comments. I don't take back everything I said though- he still seems to be lost on offense, and definitely has trouble communicating (language barrier alert) with his teammates. But, because of his ability to pick and roll, and hit free throws, he seems to be a decent option off the bench. He definitely needs to cut down on the fouls, but he has had a few big baskets the last couple of games (especially that "and-1" against the Thunder).<br /><br />I, thanks to modern technology, have been able to watch the Celtics last four games (Bucks, Bulls, Thunder, Mavs). Here's a quick review of some trends and observations I've made:<br /><br />-----1) The Celtics defense is the best it has ever been. Even better than 2008. Rondo and KG get their hands on a ball almost every single possession. They are everywhere. When Delonte gets back, and we get Nate-Dogg (who has played like garbage) out of the rotation, we are going to be almost impenetrable (Not to mention the eventual return of the second best defensive center in the league, Kendrick Perkins).<br />-----2) Marquis Daniels is back. After an awful, injury riddled first season, Quis' is back to doing what he does best- slashing to the hoop, and playing tough defense. He has looked especially good in the second quarter, helping give PP and/or Ray extended minutes on the bench to rest for the second half.<br />-----3) KG has got a hop in his step. Despite some early shooting woes, KG has looked every bit as good as he did in 2008. His rebounding numbers are way up (he had a terrific 18 and 15 tonight) and he and Rondo seem to connect on an alley oop almost every single half. Once the big men start getting healthy, KG will probably start resting up for the playoffs though, so don't expect his averages (min-35, rpg-10) to be this high all season.<br />-----4) Big Baby is a BEAST. Glenneth has done everything he can this season to turn the Celtics bench into a formidable unit. He has improved his jump shot tremendously- he now hits 18 footers with ease, and his shooting overall has been fantastic (60 percent from the field, 90 from the free throw line). The most astounding part of his "new" game though has definitely been his ability to take charges. He is averaging two a game. In the last 5 years of recorded charge-taking, the highest season total is 57! Baby is on pace for 160! It is ridiculous already. It seems like he is one inch out of the restricted area every time. He is absolute hell for opposing guards because he does such a great job of sliding his feet around the paint, he can come from the weakside and meet you head on as you go up. He has NO problems taking a hit (although tonight he went to the locker room at halftime early after taking a shot to his nether regions). Keep it up Big Boy.<br />-----5) Rajon Rondo outplayed Derrick Rose on Friday night. Again, another story of "numbers don't tell the whole story." Well actually, here they do.<br />[Taken from Boston Celtics Blog on ESPNBoston.com:<br /> "But a glance at the plus/minus is your first hint of Rondo's dominance. Boston's point guard finished a team-best plus-14, while Rose was a minus-8. The folks at ESPN Stats and Information crunched the numbers even further and found that, when the two guards shared the floor, Boston held a whopping 21-point edge."]<br />-----6) The Celtics are having trouble finishing games. I do think this is fixable though, especially with the additions of JO, Shaq, Delonte and Perk. They seem to play hot potato when it is a close game with under 2 minutes to play, and that has got to stop. It cost them a game tonight, and it almost cost them the Bucks and Bulls games. We saw how the Celtics can be successful at the end of games with the way they (especially Big Baby) put away the Thunder on Sunday night. But after blowing a 5 point lead with a minute to play tonight, Celtics fans have got to be worried about the C's inability to put away opponents.<br /><br />Because I'd prefer to end on a good note, here is something to cheer all you Celtics fans up after tonight's demoralizing loss- to Big Baby, "I just felt like a BEAST"<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9ITvdAXiCU">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9ITvdAXiCU</a><br />and for video confirmation<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96T_YroB2UQ&feature=related">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96T_YroB2UQ&feature=related</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEick3rGZ2HHzoHYCpToRveH_PhKMz-CzAQJFpHhT8VDwzEqCeQ__OswEWCZ49pdSPcWkLiE38Q0kL8GEHtpnzy-3ftvdahW-5ZJXuRGTqwXizZQPqAA0Yd16GqVP2hEuVvqU5V-pynkGV4/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEick3rGZ2HHzoHYCpToRveH_PhKMz-CzAQJFpHhT8VDwzEqCeQ__OswEWCZ49pdSPcWkLiE38Q0kL8GEHtpnzy-3ftvdahW-5ZJXuRGTqwXizZQPqAA0Yd16GqVP2hEuVvqU5V-pynkGV4/s400/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537420628756573186" border="0" /></a>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-59424037553868718102010-11-03T16:12:00.000-04:002010-11-04T12:18:31.336-04:00Week 9 Picks from the NFL plus some Celtics talk<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6_l_IZAGBhkekbczda4KqVeX93pIuijaxvH8rAWduAo6OJfjvUO3OyWM8Q_rMyuROpC7Jrd0E0PR07_sWa090j9IGVTgCzX0hiOT4GG7qc4pg2hylulSaT9KCQlpt_MBpw4gRlBq5_k/s1600/images222.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 460px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6_l_IZAGBhkekbczda4KqVeX93pIuijaxvH8rAWduAo6OJfjvUO3OyWM8Q_rMyuROpC7Jrd0E0PR07_sWa090j9IGVTgCzX0hiOT4GG7qc4pg2hylulSaT9KCQlpt_MBpw4gRlBq5_k/s400/images222.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535567511130773698" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoYNe_WXyV7GLyUXhg48HRRRzeW0tqCo7KaRM08Mc2eNva5VrNLZQt6lG7E8OwSbJt1m4Fg6GEgagEmqBnDJB5GMcrsQzMTIallTMJmhP98xnhOU4eSqYaRFTNtR0yvPPTyJYGZ1ZgdY/s1600/index.jpg"><br /></a>This coming week, despite a bunch of horrible teams having bye weeks (Denver, San Fran, Jax, Wash) there are only a couple of good games in the NFL's week 9. Let's take a look and make some predictions:<br /><br />Tampa Bay @ <span style="font-weight: bold;">Atlanta</span><br />Josh Freeman has really evolved this season, he's turned the Bucs into legitimate contenders in a wide open NFC. LaGarette Blount knows how to punch the defense in the mouth. Literally. (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEu3GzNDs74">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEu3GzNDs74</a> and for further explanation: <a href="http://www.katu.com/sports/local/57183877.html">http://www.katu.com/sports/local/57183877.html</a>). He has helped open up the offense for Freeman to hit his favorite targets: Spurlock, Williams and Benn. Despite this, Atlanta has been too good at home to pick against them, and Michael Turner has been putting up some big numbers the last couple of weeks.<br />Atlanta 34 Tampa Bay 27<br /><br />Chicago @ <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buffalo<br /></span>Buffalo has played two of the leagues best teams very tough the last couple of weeks, and I think they are about to finally get rewarded for their efforts. Chicago's offensive line has been<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>shakier than a Shake Weight (for your viewing pleasure: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXHUdvvHTkw">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXHUdvvHTkw</a>), and Jay Cutler has been beaten like a rag doll as a result. The time is now for Ryan Fitzpatrick and co. Now or never.<br />Buffalo 23 Chicago 22<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">New England </span>@ Cleveland<br />No surprise here. I'm a homer. I'm also a realist, and rookie quarterbacks just don't succeed against Bill Belichick coached defenses. Expect a lot of movement from the front 7, and expect turnovers. McCoy has looked good, just don't expect too much of him against a team playing with as much confidence as New England. Look for the Brady Bunch to finally get in a groove offensively against a defense that doesn't boast many playmakers.<br />New England 31 Cleveland 20<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NY Jets</span> @ Detroit<br />As much as I want to write this up as "upset of the week," I just don't see the Jets playing badly two weeks in a row. Either way, this game will be much more competitive than people expect. Stafford and Calvin clearly have a connection, and Suh has been an absolute terror on defense (remember what Ngata did against the Jets in week one?). If the Lions can stop the run, this game will be very, very close.<br />Jets 27 Lions 24<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">New Orleans</span> @ Carolina<br />After their highly emotional Sunday nighter against Pitt, this might be a trap game, but I don't see NO losing to such an inferior team. Carolina has been atrocious this season (we have their second round pick. Woohoo!), and there is no help on the way. Possible blowout alert.<br />NO 37 Car 20<br /><br />Miami @ <span style="font-weight: bold;">Baltimore </span><br />If Baltimore wasn't coming off a bye, I would pick Miami, but they are. Miami must start turning those red zone chances into touchdowns- their kicker, Dan Carpenter, is on pace for 167 field goals. They are undefeated on the road this season, so you should expect one of the better games of the day.<br />Baltimore 22 Miami 20<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">San Diego </span>@ Houston<br />This is a tough one to predict because both teams are so inconsistent. I am going with San Diego, because I really think this is the week everyone is going to start considering them as legitimate contenders. Houston, on the other hand, is fading. Their secondary is awful, and Phillip Rivers is feelin' it- look for a huge game from him. If San Diego can keep their mental mistakes to a minimum, with V-Jax waiting in the wings, this team is going to be extremely tough come playoff time- if they can get there.<br />San Diego 41 Houston 34<br /><br />Arizona @ <span style="font-weight: bold;">Minnesota</span><br />Arizona is so bad away from home, and Minnesota is due for a win after 3 heart breakers in a row. The loss of Moss isn't going to hurt them too much, not that it is going to matter playing against the invincible duo of Max Hall and Derek Anderson. This game is going to get out of hand quickly.<br />Minnesota 38 Arizona 13<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NY Giants </span>@ Seattle<br />The Hawks' are tough to beat at Qwest Field, but the Giants defense has been outstanding the past few weeks. This G-Men team is starting to very closely resemble their 2007 squad...gimme a second while I go jump out the window...<br />(falling)<br />(still falling)<br />Well, that wasn't too bad. I only broke both ankles and may possibly have some internal bleeding. Thank god I only live on the fifth floor.<br />NYG 23 Seattle 10<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Indianapolis </span>@ Philadelphia<br />At this point in the season, it is almost stupid to bet against Peyton Manning. Let's look at three reasons why the Eagles might stand a chance against the best player in the game:<br />1) Michael Vick's return. The Colts have been one of the worst in the league at stopping the run this season, I can only imagine what Vick is going to do with his legs this game. Not to mention RB Lesean McCoy who has been pretty effective this season.<br />2) Indy is a completely different team on the road. At home, they are almost unbeatable. Also, Philly fans are insane (trust me on this one). You know what? Screw it, I'm gonna tell you a story:<br />Me and my brother Noam were sitting about 120 rows up from the goal line at Super Bowl 39. The game was in the 4th quarter, and fans were getting very rowdy. The guy across the aisle from us was an Eagles fan who was probably about 30. Let's say he was on beer number 12, and that is being generous. There is a break in play, and a very upper class looking woman with a fur coat and ridiculously thin heels starts walking down the aisle. She slips and falls. Everyone in the section sort of fell quiet (which, in the 4th quarter of a Super Bowl, is a big deal) as we weren't really sure what happened. The woman face-planted right next to us. She was literally face down in cement after falling a few steps. This 30 year old Eagle fan, after a few brief moments, decides this would be the appropriate time to start a chant. He leans right over her face, and keep in mind- this woman has been laying there motionless, and may or may not even be conscious- and he literally points his finger at the back of her head and screams at the top of his lungs "E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!" Everyone in the crowd starts going nuts. I was literally shocked. I looked at Noam. His jaw was as dropped as mine was. After a second, we made eye contact and started laughing our asses off. We both realized we would have a great story to share for years to come. I also now realize how insane that guy actually was. For all he knew, she could have been dead. He was literally mocking a potential corpse.<br />3) Philly might be the best team in the NFC. They were very, very good with Vick running the show, and this might be the game that pushes them into Super Bowl contender status. They may very well jump out to a big lead and not look back in this game- I just don't think the way Manning is playing, that he is going to get beat by any team in the NFC (unless the Eagles are better than we thought which is definitely a possibility).<br />Indy 30 Philly 27<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kansas City </span>@ Oakland<br />I think everyone is a little too high on Oakland right now, and just a little bit too low on KC. This game will change that. KC's defense has been very good, and I just don't see Oakland stopping KC's fantastic running game. Also, Oakland can't possibly have a winning record this deep into the season, can it?<br />KC 26 Oak 20<br /><br />Dallas @ <span style="font-weight: bold;">GB<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span>If I pick Dallas again, shoot me. They are god awful. They might be the most talented, worst team in the history of the NFL. They will not lure me into their trap again. It helps that they are playing a smoking hot Packers team in Green Bay. (Knowing my luck, Dallas will probably win this one)<br />GB 38 Dallas 17<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pittsburgh</span> @ Cincinnati<br />If not for that awful fumble call in Miami, Pitt would be 1-2 with Big Ben under center. Just sayin'.<br />Pitt 31 Cin 19<br /><br />Quick thoughts on Randy Moss:<br />He's a good fit in Tennessee, but Coach Fisher better hope that Randy doesn't expect Tom Brady type throws coming his way. Building chemistry with the highest rated quarterback in the NFL (that's right, Vince Young has the highest QB rating in the league. In other news, hell has frozen over and the fat lady has sung) is not going to come over night. But as we saw a couple of weeks ago with Kenny Britt, VY has a nice downfield arm and is not afraid to unleash it. People confuse the Titans for a running team because of Chris Johnson. This year, they have beaten opponents through the air. Moss gives VY a reliable, veteran receiver who he can rely on in crunch time, as well as (obviously) a great deep threat. If they get on the same page, the Titans might be able to steal the division from Indy and Houston.<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Before I start talking about the C's in depth, I just want to say, what a freakin game last night. If you were fortunate enough to watch the Bucks battle the C's on ESPN, you got quite the treat. You saw big time dunks (KG. WOW), big time shots (great fadeaway three by Delfino in OT) and just overall high quality basketball. The game almost seemed lost as the Bucks were draining three's with about 4 minutes left, but then the C's stormed back with a few monstrous "and-ones" from PP and KG (twice). The game certainly seemed over when we led by 6 with a minute left, but Ray Ray's missed FT left the door open for Milwaukee and they took advantage by hitting a lay up that was just a little too easy (seriously, where the hell was the defense?). In overtime, we took the lead with a few beautiful passes from Rondo and KG, and some very suffocating defense. PP iced the game with what seemed like a hundred free throws (quick tangent- I'm sure you all read about how Paul reached 20,000 points. (<a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=may_peter&id=5762765"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=may_peter&id=5762765</span></a>) What a career he has had, and he has been a Celtic all those years. As Paul said himself "Celtics for life, fa fa fa for life!!!!" Also, crazy stat, Pierce is the <span style="font-style: italic;">fourth</span> player on the current Celtics roster to hit the 20,000 point mark! Shaq, Ray and KG have all been there, done that). Anyway, big win for the Celtics, who seem to be a little bit too beatable on the second night of a back to back. Luckily for them, they have Rajon Rondo, the Houdini of the Hardwood (ok, not quite yet, but he's getting there!) With that, let's get to the Celtics awards so far:<br /><br />Team MVP: Rajon Rondo<br />Words cannot describe how important he is to this team. He makes the whole operation work. He is the ring leader. The way he operates leave fans, opponents and even teammates in awe. I thought his assist numbers would go up this year, but to average 16 a game, even for the first week and a half, is ridiculous. He gets anywhere on the court whenever he wants, and he sets up the outside shooters (PP and Ray), as well as the jump shooters (KG and Baby). He really is so fun to watch, and I appreciate every minute I get to watch such a unique player run the fast break or make steals that look impossible to make.<br /><br />Most Improved: Kevin Garnett (and Big Baby, but we will get to him later)<br />You may be asking how an NBA MVP, a thirteen time All-Star, and Defensive Player of the year, could possibly improve. Well, did you watch him last year? He looked like he had a peg leg. At points during the season you just wanted to run out on the court and give the dude a cane (or a walker, your choice). He looked like he was done. But in the back of every Celtics fans' minds, we were thinking (more like praying) "it takes two years to come back from a knee injury. Right? RIGHT? GODDAMNITT WHY IS HE LIMPING UP AND DOWN THE COURT!" But here we are. 22 months later, and he looks almost the same as 2007 KG. We saw glimpses in the playoffs last year. He dominated Antwan Jamison, manhandled Rashard Lewis, and despite being over matched at times by the great Pau Gasol (I call him "the lama," but that's just me), he certainly held his own against the huge Lakers frontcourt. This year he has gotten his timing back, which has especially helped his rebounding totals, and looks better around the glass offensively. The ridiculous dunk in traffic through two guys last night would NEVER have happened last year. With the new and improved KG, the Celtics are well on their way to another Title Run.<br /><br />Guy Who We All Thought Was Going To Be Amazing Until We Saw Him Play: Semih Erden<br />He had great numbers in the preseason, and was a relative unknown. This made us all very excited for the "Turkish Twist" (or as Baby calls him, "Semih Automatic"). And then he started playing in games. Can he be good in the future? Sure, at least that is what the coaching staff and his teammates are telling us. But you cannot tell me that this guy is going to get meaningful minutes on a Title contender. He looks completely lost both offensively and defensively. Yes, it was his first couple of games, but besides for practice, he isn't going to get much playing time to correct his problems. On offense he seems to bump into someone every 5 seconds, and doesn't really know the sets. On defense, he is adequate, but once Perk comes back he immediately falls into the "emergency only Sheldon Williams" role for the C's. It's too bad. I was excited to root for #86.<br /><br />Most Surprising Contributor: Glen "Big Baby" Davis<br />Maybe not most surprising considering his great play in the Finals, but I don't think anyone expected him to be this consistent (so far, knock on wood). He is the de facto center (because Shaq can only play 20 minutes and JO is always injured + no Perk). He finishes every game with the starters- he can thank Hack-A-Shaq for that. He is hitting jump shots consistently, and is finally figuring out how to finish around the rim without getting blocked a million times. And last, but certainly not least, how about those charges he takes? Man, he is hell for opposing guards. He seems to take a charge every other possession. I believe he already has 9 (and he should have 10, the one that got him his 6th foul last night was malarkey), and he doesn't seem fazed by the big hits. Although, that is not surprising considering he always looks like he's in a daze.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjAZA86IY2kuBgCiLTzX6oi71WdlUkWEDQWRivHYsoqDADj2ERzlf-36ohjWNlAV7I3K-kwghfd3sqp2ZWQZjSO5Q3dmb1qPLP9bDs-pizgpD8mhk_06JGZjD0EguSVHbc9nToRE8kdk/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjAZA86IY2kuBgCiLTzX6oi71WdlUkWEDQWRivHYsoqDADj2ERzlf-36ohjWNlAV7I3K-kwghfd3sqp2ZWQZjSO5Q3dmb1qPLP9bDs-pizgpD8mhk_06JGZjD0EguSVHbc9nToRE8kdk/s320/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535565945817469298" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Best Fighters: Delonte West and Von Wafer<br />Who knew? If you put two psychopaths in a room, they <span style="font-style: italic;">might </span>get into a fight! Even less surprising- they laughed about it the next day! Let's just hope these two don't murder each other (or anyone for that matter), at least until the season ends.<br /><br />The Celtics look very similar to the 2008 World Champion Celtics. This year, the road is tougher, and the opponents are better. The Heat and Lakers both look poised to give the Celtics a great fight for the Larry O'Brien Trophy.<br /><br />I say the Celtics come out on top and bring Banner 18 to Boston.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoYNe_WXyV7GLyUXhg48HRRRzeW0tqCo7KaRM08Mc2eNva5VrNLZQt6lG7E8OwSbJt1m4Fg6GEgagEmqBnDJB5GMcrsQzMTIallTMJmhP98xnhOU4eSqYaRFTNtR0yvPPTyJYGZ1ZgdY/s1600/index.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQoYNe_WXyV7GLyUXhg48HRRRzeW0tqCo7KaRM08Mc2eNva5VrNLZQt6lG7E8OwSbJt1m4Fg6GEgagEmqBnDJB5GMcrsQzMTIallTMJmhP98xnhOU4eSqYaRFTNtR0yvPPTyJYGZ1ZgdY/s320/index.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535566095920778210" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvp87eNS5nNoO6NANVDObhvXKwJe6QAPy8F3_8qik1kHl2QaIQhRAqXGAMctS7Mt_nTwwNQF3iWEz4dVhL5TitOMo1q35V4tsGCWhPlfp1VG5LT2DAUbEobFTe4ckwLYTb4B2RozB_K2g/s1600/index.jpg"><br /></a><br /><br /><img src="file:///Users/celticsfan00/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/moz-screenshot.png" alt="" /><img src="file:///Users/celticsfan00/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/moz-screenshot-1.png" alt="" />Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-10313125927193602772010-10-31T20:41:00.000-04:002010-11-01T23:32:23.158-04:00Sun sets on Vikes as Pats take over number 1 spot in NFLI rose from my seats at the 50 yard line as Gillette Stadium slowly grew louder. We all knew what was coming- Adrian Peterson, All Day, AP, whatever you want to call him, was going to try to bust into the end zone. It was 4th and Goal from the 1, and the whole stadium was finally on their feet. Here it came. BAM! Stood up at the line of scrimmage and pushed back to the 2! What a stop! We all started jumping up and down, screaming out praises to the defense. It was the turning point in the game, and possibly the season, for both teams. After our group "hug dance" (don't ask), I looked up and saw the sun setting across the stadium. There was a little opening on the other side of the stadium, and for about a minute you could see the sun setting in the background. And then, after a few moments, it was gone. How poetic. The sun had set on the Vikings season. They were done. Obviously, the second half had to be played, and there were many more plays that won the game for the Patriots (namely, the broken play to Brandon Tate, and the interception by Devin McCourty). But this was the one that changed the whole complexion of the game. This was a stop reminiscent of the legendary Willie McGinest tackle for loss against Edgerrin James and the Colts. Here it was, the best (CJ hasn't been nearly as good this year) running back in the league, going one on one with one of the youngest defensive teams in the league. We came out on top. There was Ron Brace and Rob Ninkovitch (both no-names to all non-Pats fans) holding the line, and there was Brandon Spikes and Vince "Vending Machine" Wilfork bringing him down. Celebrations ensued. Fun way to go into halftime.<br /><br />A few observations from the Pats game as a whole:<br /> 1) The Patriots offense is struggling mightily to put together sustained drives. It may seem to casual observers that the Patriots offense is just fine. But watching them game to game, and scrutinizing every play, there is something terribly wrong. Against the Dolphins (with Moss) we looked out of sync. Against the Ravens, we were dead for three quarters. We couldn't stop the rush against the Chargers and nearly blew a game that was gift wrapped for us. This week, we had great pass protection, but had 9 rushes for 9 yards in the first half, and had tons of trouble opening up the passing game. The second half was much better, but besides for a long play to Aaron Hernandez, the long passing plays seemed to all be fluky. Tate's first long catch went right threw the defender's hands, and his second one wasn't lucky, but it wasn't the way the play was drawn up. Yes, BJGE looked awesome in the second half, but the Patriots passing game seems to be stuck in the mud. A win is a win, and scoring 28 points is scoring 28 points, but the Patriots are going to have to figure out ways to consistently move the ball down field.<br /> 2) The Pats defense is gelling. Slowly but surely, the Patriots defense is figuring out ways to make plays. Like my dad said last night, they are very "opportunistic." They have players who are creating turnovers in different, strange ways. Rob Ninkovitch, who has been improving every week, has 3 fumble recoveries and 2 interceptions. We all know about Pat Chung's special teams contributions. When the ball is on the ground, we are picking it up, That sounds simple, but the past few years, it wasn't happening. We didn't get the right bounce, or we didn't have the right players. This year, we do.<br /> 3) Zoltan Mesko is the man. The Pats drafted him and Gostkowski in the last 5 years, and both have been special teams gems. Watching the Chargers, you gain a greater appreciation for special teams effectiveness.<br /> 4) The Pats need Deion Branch to get healthy. He played a meager 23 snaps this game (courtesy of Mike Reiss), and when he was on the field, he didn't look himself. He had a nice screen turned into a long gain, but he also missed a chance at a HUGE play. He was running down the left sideline when Brady lofted a nice ball over his shoulder towards the outside shoulder. He got a hand on it, but couldn't bring it in. I have to assume a healthy Branch gets an extra half step on that play and is gone for a 93 yard touchdown reception. It was thisclose.<br /> 5) I retract my anger over not drafting Dez Bryant. Devin McCourty is a BEAST! He is already a legitimate number one cornerback, and he has only played 7 games! He's big, strong, athletic and has a great nose for the ball. His interception last week (@ SD) was just a glimpse of what this kid is capable of. This week he had a beautiful play on a deep ball to Percy Harvin. He not only kept up with Harvin (who is even more incredibly athletic in person) and turned his body around (which, by itself, only about a quarter of the CB's in the league can do), he almost came away with an interception! He also made a nice play in the endzone in the 4th quarter. He is a very impressive young player who by years end will probably be in the running for Defensive Rookie of the Year.<br /> 6) Randy Moss. Awkward. "I miss them guys. I love all them. I miss Tommy Boy." Maybe he did like the Justin Beiber hairdoo.<br /><br />Thoughts on Jets- Pack:<br /> 1) The Jets need a quarterback. Mark Sanchez has regressed considerably from the Vikings game until now. Maybe he finally hit the sophomore wall. When the running game isn't working, the Jets offense is dead in the water.<br /> 2) The Packers might just be turning into the team we all thought they were going to be. Rodgers has been very good, and the defense was stellar this week. Clay Mathews continues to impress as his chances for Defensive Player of the Year keep rising.<br /> 3) Strange (gutsy, but probably more dumb than anything) call to go for a fake punt on 4th and 18. Great challenge by Mike McCarthy. The Jets special teams has been very good, but this was one of the wackier plays this season. With a defense like the Jets have, why not punt away and let the D get you the ball back?<br /><br />Other thoughts from around the NFL:<br />1) The Cowboys are awful. Wow. It couldn't possibly get any worse than this can it? Their coach, Wade Phillips, may or may not be dead. Jon Kitna is, well, Jon Kitna. And what in the hell happened to that fast, aggressive defense?<br />2) I hate Oakland. Why are they good all of the sudden? Of course the one time the Pats trade for a number one pick, they become playoff contenders. Except Sebastion Janikowski- keep booting those field goals!<br />3) Mathew Stafford and Calvin Johnson are going to be very good for a very long time. That they are this good together at their age is just plain scary.<br />4) Keep your eye on the Chargers. This is usually when they make their move. They looked good in the second half against the Pats, and looked very good against the Titans this week. They also get Vincent Jackson back in a couple of weeks.<br />5) Rex Grossman! REX GROSSMAN! Are you kidding me Mike Shanahan! Did you really think he wasn't going to give up a fumble returned for a TD??? THIS IS REX GROSSMAN! The same Rex Grossman who had multiple 0.0 QB Ratings in the year his team went to the Super Bowl. He hasn't gotten any better since he left the Bears! That was just an absolutely outrageous move by the head coach.<br />6) Huge win for the Saints. That was the ferocious defense we have all been waiting to see since week 1. Brees still didn't look like himself though, I don't know what it is, but he just doesn't seem to be playing with as much confidence as last season. He isn't throwing good balls downfield, and has WAY too many turnovers.<br />7) Someone should probably wake up Al Davis and tell him that the Raiders are actually decent this season. He's been in a coma for years.<br />8) Has the wind ever affected as many games as it did yesterday? Just from what I saw, the Jets-Pack game, the KC-BUF game and the Pats-Vikes games all were extremely affected by the weather conditions. I bet the Jets wish they would've put that dome on...<br /><br /><br />I would post some links, but the internet is very spotty, so I'll post them next time.<br /><br />And another thing:<br />Wow was I wrong about the San Fransisco Giants. I mean, I knew they had great pitching, but I didn't expect this. Also, where did Cody Ross (or as they call him in San Fran "The Boss") come from? He's a platoon player! When did he morph into Albert Pujols?Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-52870166304513515732010-10-26T12:52:00.000-04:002010-10-26T17:28:13.653-04:00The EPIC Celtics-Heat season opener and Roster Breakdown<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdm2HIDZ4Z5HhpqXFhZG1P1h3f1BqA3esGJDmzi6_p2UtxzA6hss9nvbSsgIopgD8mZovX6ep03_4U06a1lNcj4kqVc4bYodk_C2ZE6ld9gRbhyphenhyphenKI-3bCx4xwsoWU06i_Qta-aDXpvRk/s1600/bos_g_tdgarden1_576.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 520px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdm2HIDZ4Z5HhpqXFhZG1P1h3f1BqA3esGJDmzi6_p2UtxzA6hss9nvbSsgIopgD8mZovX6ep03_4U06a1lNcj4kqVc4bYodk_C2ZE6ld9gRbhyphenhyphenKI-3bCx4xwsoWU06i_Qta-aDXpvRk/s400/bos_g_tdgarden1_576.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532457668973549426" border="0" /></a><br /> Like every other basketball fan, I am SO excited for tonight's slate of games. But one sticks out. Yes, I am talking about Celtics-Heat. This one is for all the marbles. This is THE matchup we have all been waiting for.<br /> OK, we may be taking this all a little too seriously. It is the first game of the season. So it may be the best season opening matchup of all-time. Who cares? (Besides the NBA. The NBA always cares.) Last year, the Celtics manhandled the Cavaliers in the first game of the season. Guess how much it mattered down the road? Not one bit. The Cavs were in transition. Shaq had just joined them, and I believe Delonte West was deactivated due to an investigation into his hiding a loaded shotgun in a guitar case while riding his motorcycle. Seriously, that happened. Anyways, the Celtics had their Core 4 and Perk, and the Cavs were just trying to figure out how to play together.<br />Sound familiar?<br />The Heat's big 3 have played a whopping 3 minutes together. Wade injured his hammy, and Bron also went down with an injury- leaving Chris Bosh with memories of his years on the Raptors (him, and no one else). They are amazing, no doubt. But they are in transition. The Celtics have added a few pieces as well (Shaq, Jermaine, Von Wafer...don't ask), but their Core 4 are still there- chugging along as usual. People are talking about a healthy Kevin Garnett and a <span style="font-style: italic;">finally</span> healthy Paul Pierce, and they assume the Celtics will be bigger (definitely) and better (who knows?) than last year. The truth is, this game means nothing in the grand scheme of things.<br />Will it be fun? Yes. Will it be entertaining? Yes. Will everyone write rapid reactions and scrutinize every second of action (including me)? Yes. But what does it all mean? The game is almost meaningless. The C's will be without Delonte "Wild Wild" West and Kendrick Perkins, while the Heat will be without sharpshooter Mike Miller. Neither team is complete, and neither team is in midseason form. So while we are all enjoying tonight's game, try and keep it in perspective. (By the way, Celtics will win it with stingy defense and team chemistry. Also, Lebron is a jerk.)<br /><br />We all waited so long for Celtics season to start up again, especially after last season's heartbreak, let's take a closer look at each member of this years squad (Reloaded. Again.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rajon Rondo</span>- After absolutely exploding onto the National Stage with his pantheon performance in game 4 (29-18-13, from a point guard) of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Rondo is ready for the big time. I, like many others, expect Rondo to make the leap this season to superstar, and win some games for this team by himself. Finally armed with some offensively capable centers, look for Rondo's assist numbers to be even higher this year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ray Allen</span>- Besides for being a consummate professional, Ray Ray has always been the Celtics 3 point threat. We were all praising him after his record breaking performance in game 2 of the Finals, and we were all cursing him in game 3. That is how Ray is. He is a rhythm shooter. Last year we saw a dip in his 3 point percentage, but with KG healthy, and the Diesel keeping defenses honest, we should expect Ray to get more open looks this season.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paul Pierce</span>- The captain. Pierce is the leader of this team. He preps his warriors for battle. He fights through injuries, and is always called on when the Celtics need a basket at the end of the game. Slowed last season by an array of injuries, Paul seemed to be quickly deteriorating before our eyes. He showed some flashes of his old self in the playoffs, but he really needs to be more consistent this year to still be considered an elite scorer. Let's hope Paul stays healthy and bounces back this season.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kevin Garnett</span>- KG. The big ticket. The guy who slaps his own head. We can all agree that KG may go overboard sometimes with his emotions, but he gives this team an identity. He spread it to his other half (Kendrick Perkins), and he lets everyone know. We are going to play great defense, and we are going to be loud while we do it. KG had a tough year coming back from his knee injury, but seemed to pick it up in the playoffs. Everyone says it takes two years to recover from a serious knee injury. Hopefully, they are right.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Shaquille O'Neal</span>- The Diesel has come to Boston for one purpose- to win a ring. OK, so he also went to Phoenix and Cleveland to win a ring, but we will forget about those for now. This is the deepest team he has played on since his years with the Lakers. He is highly motivated to get at least another ring in what he calls his last "730 days" as an NBA player. Kobe threw it in his face last year, and he hates Kobe- ("Hey Kobe, tell me how my A$$ tastes"). I expect big rebounding numbers, and a bunch of easy buckets for the Big Shamrock.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Delonte West</span>- Despite the Celtics addition of Shaq Diesel, I think Delonte is going to prove to be the most significant off-season acquisition by the end of the year. Starting off with a 10 game suspension, Delonte will certainly be behind when he comes back, but he is going to be a great backup for both Rondo and Ray. A high percentage shooter and a great passer, Delonte also possesses the great ability to control the tempo of the game without turning the ball over. He also fits in very well with this tough one on one defensive minded team- he is considered one of the best man to man defenders in the league.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marquis Daniels + Nate Robinson</span>- Both players figure to play big roles off the bench this season. Quis' is "a completely different player" according to Paul Pierce, and Nate will have a better handle on the offense with his first off-season with the team. I expect both of these players to have very good years, and help solidify the revamped second unit.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Glen "Big Baby" Davis</span>- Hit a huge speed bump last year when he broke his thumb in a fight with a friend on the eve of the season opener (you can't make this stuff up), Glen was huge for the Celtics by the time the playoffs rolled around. He's got to cut down on his Blocks Against (he got blocked on about 33% of his shots around the rim area), but he seems to be primed for a breakout year. The Celtics will need it, as their bench struggled to score at points last season.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Semih Erden + Jermain O'Neal</span>- Both big guys figure to play pretty significant roles. Erden is obviously a surprise, but he definitely played well enough in the preseason to garner some attention, and minutes from Coach Doc Rivers. Erden is a wild card, but if he could develop his game, he might be the first rookie to help the Celtics since the Big 3 arrived in 08'. With O'Neal, you know what you're getting. A decent shot blocker, and a pretty good offensive player and rebounder, he is a solid addition to the already deep Celtics bench.<br /><br />Overall, this team is almost definitely better than last season's squad, but let's just hope there are no more injuries along the way, or it will be very hard for the C's to repeat as Eastern Conference Champions.<br /><br />On to the links-<br /><br />A few articles from Celtics-Heat hype machine:<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=may_peter&id=5725990">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=may_peter&id=5725990</a><br /><br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/columns/story?columnist=wallace_michael&page=Heat-101026">http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/columns/story?columnist=wallace_michael&page=Heat-101026</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/gasper/2010/10/heat_check_for.html">http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/gasper/2010/10/heat_check_for.html</a><br /><br />Articles for Celtics fans:<br /><a href="http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/massarotti/2010/10/for_these_againg_celtics_the_f.html">http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/massarotti/2010/10/for_these_againg_celtics_the_f.html</a><br /><br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5724996">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5724996</a><br /><br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/chris_mannix/10/26/kevin.garnett.health/index.html?eref=sihp">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/chris_mannix/10/26/kevin.garnett.health/index.html?eref=sihp</a><br /><br />Some other sport's links:<br />Peter "King" King's great Monday Morning Quarterback-<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/10/25/monday-morning-quarterback-week-7/index.html">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/10/25/monday-morning-quarterback-week-7/index.html</a><br /><br />Strange article about Roger Federer and a hidden Tennis Tournament of high rollers who gamble thousands and thousands of dollars on a single point!<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/jon_wertheim/10/25/best.three/index.html">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/jon_wertheim/10/25/best.three/index.html</a><br /><br />Interesting article on Texas' success this postseason-<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs/2010/columns/story?columnist=bryant_howard&id=5725591">http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs/2010/columns/story?columnist=bryant_howard&id=5725591</a><br /><br />Nice blurb about everyone's favorite Patriot: Danny Woodhead-<br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/20657/woodhead-takes-opportunity-to-new-heights">http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/20657/woodhead-takes-opportunity-to-new-heights</a><br /><br />Youtube:<br />Finally, Haynesworth earns his paycheck (sort of, maybe, a little)-<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QUKOPAAO2k"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QUKOPAAO2k</span></a><br />AND<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDRLSepq11g&feature=related"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDRLSepq11g&feature=related</span></a> (at the 1:25 mark)<br /><br />WHY DIDN'T WE DRAFT HIM!!!! F&*@-<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6P8eh70Xxo">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6P8eh70Xxo</a><br /><br />Great new Lebron Commercial. And to answer your question, you should NOT be an asshole-<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVgb2W2EEjY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVgb2W2EEjY</a><br /><br /><br /><br />And just to get you ready for tonight:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuvtPuzj5QI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuvtPuzj5QI</a><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KHTVVJ3h6M">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KHTVVJ3h6M</a>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-32231543412994197192010-10-25T16:52:00.000-04:002010-10-26T01:20:14.313-04:00A win is a win, and are you ready for NBA season?That was waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too close. Watching that first half, you would have thought some members of the 1919 White Sox had slipped on San Diego jerseys. I mean, seriously? Did you see those fumbles? [<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6n8lWiDDF0k">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6n8lWiDDF0k</a> The way James Sanders celebrates after this play, you would think that he actually did <span style="font-style: italic;">something</span>. Nope. He literally picked up the ball after one of the dumbest plays I've seen in years. What does he do? The classic "strap the belt" celebration. Just ridiculous.]<br />Given every opportunity to blow this game open in the first half, the Patriots offense failed so miserably, they made Lamar Odom and Khloe Kardashian's marriage look like a success (engaged after 30 days, divorced after what, like a week and a half? Wait, they are back together? What? Bad example).<br /> Last week, we blamed the offensive struggles on the superb Ravens D (yes, the Ravens who gave up 374 yards passing to the indomitable Ryan Fitzpatrick), and on the transition from #81 to #84. This week, we'll blame it on the great San Diego pass rush. So is this offense still great, or are they going to struggle mightily to put points on the board like they have these past two weeks? The answer lies somewhere in the middle. The running game got a huge spark from the superb Danny Woodhead, and the passing seems to be OK without Randy, but the offensive line is going to have to improve its performance if the Patriots want to still be considered a top offense. Because no matter how good Tom Brady is, he needs time in the pocket to be successful. This week, that didn't happen. Matt Light got destroyed, Koppen looked over matched, and even Sebastion "The Giant German" Vollmer got hit with big penalty. Do the Chargers have a tough pass rush? Yes, but all the playoff bound teams in the AFC have a strong pass rush (Pitt, NYJ, Ind, KC, Bal). If the offensive line doesn't get itself back into form, the Pats are going to have some big problems.<br />(By the way, you think we missed Logan Mankins on that terrible looking 4th and 1 run at the end of the game? He will be back in a few weeks, so hopefully he will give the line a much needed boost.)<br />Don't look now, but Jared Allen is coming to town next week.<br /><br /> Welcome back to Gillette, Randy Moss. Next week is going to be very fun, not only because of Randy's return, but because the Vikings have such an exciting team. I've been talking about Percy Harvin for the past few weeks, and he has validated my praise. He's had a receiving TD, kick return TD and rushing TD in the last 3 games. He almost came down with that miracle catch on 1st and 30 at the end of the fourth last night: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXk6ul-rGIc">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXk6ul-rGIc</a> (the 5:40 mark)<br /> There have been some reports that Brett Favre may not start for the first time in 291 games because of multiple injuries (ankle, elbow etc.). That would suck. We all want to see #4 out there, and we want the Pats to win it fair and square. I actually think that the Patriots are going to focus this week on stopping Adrian Peterson, and try and let Favre, Moss and Harvin beat them. Besides for a few drives in the last two weeks, the Patriots defense has looked pretty good. They are still in dire need of a pass rusher, but slowly this defense is starting to gel and become a solid unit. Hopefully the loss of Pat Chung this week wasn't serious, because he has looked terrific. Belichick has been heaping praise on Jermaine Cunningham and Devin McCourty (What an athletic interception this week. Just beautiful), as both have been playing great for rookies. And Jerod Mayo, Brandon Spikes and Vince Wilfork have really been shutdown running lanes these past few weeks, no easy task.<br /><br /> As for what I think will happen in the game, it is hard to predict with all of the injuries for both teams. But let's say that Favre and Chung are both healthy, this game is going to be a shootout (similar to the Pack-Vikes game last night). With home field advantage (Tom doesn't lose at home in the regular season), I think the Pats prevail 31-27.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Get pumped! The Celtics open the season tomorrow night against the star studded Miami Heat. There are going to be 8 potential Hall of Famer's on the court at the opening tip (the only ones who aren't locks are Rondo and Bosh- Garnett, Shaq, Pierce, Allen, Wade and Lebron already have plaques), not to mention bragging rights for the Eastern Conference. Most experts consider these two teams the class of the East, with some squeezing Orlando in too. This may be the most highly anticipated season opener in the history of the NBA. You have the Super Villains vs. the Old Guard. There is tons of history within the matchup as well:<br />1) The Celtics bounced the Heat from the playoffs last year. Let's hope Wade doesn't talk to his hand tomorrow night...<br />2) The C's also bounced Lebron from the playoffs, and ultimately, Cleveland. Lebron had a quiet (for him) series, and people were questioning his mental toughness after he seemed to give up with a couple minutes left of game 6. Now, Lebron has his Robin (Wade), and even an Alfred (Bosh)- just go with it- let's see what he can do with a legitimate supporting cast.<br />3) Shaq was supposed to be the missing piece to the Lebron puzzle last year. Well, that worked out well! This year, Shaquille "730 days left" O'Neil is out for revenge (on Kobe, not Lebron). If you don't think Kobe's crack- "I got one more than Shaq"- got the big fella riled up, you're crazy. He is ready to rip it up this season.<br />4) Lastly, this is really the new NBA. Package three superstars, and you get a ring. We saw it before, to a lesser extent, with the Spurs (Duncan, Ginobili, Parker). And we saw it, more recently, with the Celtics (Big 3 + Rondo) and Lakers (Kobe, Pau, Bynum/Odom/Ron Ron). Now, it's Miami's turn.<br /><br />Get your popcorn ready.Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-58388440479017667472010-10-23T22:59:00.000-04:002010-10-24T01:18:45.387-04:00Quick thoughts for Week 7 in the NFLCincinnati @ Atlanta-<br />Huge game for Atlanta. Everyone thought they were the best of the NFC (Junior Varsity for the AFC), and they got outplayed badly by Philly. Cincinnati looks pretty vulnerable right now, here is Atlanta's chance to get back in the mix.<br />ATL 31 CIN 20<br />Washington @ Chicago-<br />Chicago's offensive line is killing them (especially killing Cutler), and Washington is coming off a tough loss to Indy. I smell an upset.<br />WASH 27 CHI 20<br />St. Louis @ Tampa Bay-<br />Tampa needs to bounce back after the beating they took last week (Where was the run defense? Chris Ivory? Really?), but St. Louis looked very solid last week. This might actually turn out to be quite a game (Sam Bradford vs. Josh Freeman! The future of the NFL!)<br />TB 21 STL 20<br />San Fransisco @ Carolina<br />Wow. Awful game.<br />CAR 24 SF 23<br />Buffalo @ Baltimore<br />At this point, I just feel bad for Buffalo. They may not have enough players left for an active roster after this one. Welcome back Ed Reed!<br />BAL 38 BUF 6<br />Philadelphia @ Tennessee<br />This is going to be a fun game. Possibly Kolb's last start, look for him to have another big game. Tennessee has been very hot and cold this season, but have picked it up the past few weeks. If Tennessee can win this game, we will all see how far the AFC really is ahead of the NFC. It is getting kind of ridiculous at this point.<br />TEN 30 PHI 27<br />Jacksonville @ Kansas City<br />Kansas City is going to crush Jacksonville. The Jags couldn't have looked much worse than last Monday night, and KC is very underrated (especially their defense, which has been great). Blowout alert.<br />KC 31 JAX 13<br />Pittsburgh @ Miami<br />Great test for both teams. Miami has won some tough games and lost some tough ones, a win here would really make them a contender. Pitt really hasn't beaten a good team yet (especially on the road). Let's see what Roethlisberger can do when everyone in the stadium is booing him and he is playing against a real NFL franchise (sorry Cleveland, you are not quite there yet). Pitt's defense might just win them another game (60 points allowed in 5 games! Crazy good!)<br />Pitt 24 MIA 16<br />Cleveland @ New Orleans<br />I know i just bashed Cleveland, but New Orleans hasn't looked so spectacular this season. Potential trap game after a big win last week.<br />NO 30 CLE 23<br />Arizona @ Seattle<br />Only god knows what will happen in this one. [Refuse to make a prediction]<br />New England @ San Diego<br />Another potential trap game, this one is going to be fun to watch. The Pats pass defense sucks (273 yrds allowed per game through the air) and Rivers leads the league in yards- he already has 2000! But without a few key players and possibly Gates, I think the edge goes to NE. If Gates plays and his healthy, it would be a battle, without Gates, it may be over by halftime.<br />NE 27 SD 24<br />Oakland @ Denver<br />Denver will make up for last weeks debacle against the Jets where they let a W slip away. Oakland is not good enough to win a tough game on the road (as long as the Patriots have their first round pick, I keep telling myself they aren't good. They're not. Right?)<br />DEN 34 OAK 17<br />Minnesota @ Green Bay<br />Favre. Favre. Favre. Favre. Favre. Favre. Favre. (In case you forgot).<br />GB 23 MIN 20<br />NY Giants @ Dallas<br />I think Dallas finally shows up. If I'm wrong, Jerry Jones kills a man (possibly Wade Phillips?). These Giants-Cowboys prime time clashes always seem to be entertaining though.<br />DAL 34 NYG 30<br /><br />Quick thoughts about Pats game tomorrow:<br />1) Protection is key. Despite the Chargers failures, they do have a terrific pass rush. Neutralize them, and the whole offense will open up.<br />2) Deion "Randy Who?" Branch and BJGE will have big games. Also, look for Aaron Hernandez to bounce back.<br />3) Rivers has an unbelievable down field arm. If the Pats go into the deep Cover-2 defense (like they used in the second half last week), they will be able to keep the big plays to a minimum.<br />4) Don't turn it over! The Chargers have no momentum going into this game, turnovers can change that momentum very quickly. The Pats have done a nice job this season of making the field longer for opposing offenses by not turning it over, Zoltan's booming punts, and Gostkowski's deep kickoffs.<br /><br />Some quick links-<br />Good article about the Chargers' troubles. It is an ESPN Insider article, so I tried to make it so everyone can see it by linking the print-page version. Let me know if it works or not:<br /><a href="http://proxy.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=5714513&type=story">http://proxy.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=5714513&type=story</a><br /><br />Peter King's predictions (didn't look at these until after I finished, although I did sort of steal the idea for this column from him. Shhhh):<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/10/21/week.7.picks/index.html?eref=sihp">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/10/21/week.7.picks/index.html?eref=sihp</a><br /><br />Because there is nothing I like more than an article that says the Yankees have no heart:<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/mlb/columns/story?columnist=oconnor_ian&id=5716297">http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/mlb/columns/story?columnist=oconnor_ian&id=5716297</a><br /><br />Another great one. Hows that 10 year, 275 million dollar contract look now?<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/mlb/columns/story?columnist=matthews_wallace&id=5716363">http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/mlb/columns/story?columnist=matthews_wallace&id=5716363</a><br /><br />Getting excited for Tuesday night's battle royale between the C's and Heat? Me too.<br /><a href="http://si.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=Preview+2010-11+NBA+season%2C+LeBron+James%2C+Miami+Heat+-+Ian+Thomsen+-+SI.com&expire=&urlID=438842902&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsportsillustrated.cnn.com%2F2010%2Fwriters%2Fian_thomsen%2F10%2F22%2Fguide.2010-11.nba.season%2Findex.html&partnerID=2356">http://si.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=Preview+2010-11+NBA+season%2C+LeBron+James%2C+Miami+Heat+-+Ian+Thomsen+-+SI.com&expire=&urlID=438842902&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsportsillustrated.cnn.com%2F2010%2Fwriters%2Fian_thomsen%2F10%2F22%2Fguide.2010-11.nba.season%2Findex.html&partnerID=2356</a><br /><br />And One Last Thing-<br />Great win tonight for the San Fransisco Giants. I honestly don't know how they made it this far with that offense, but I guess that's why they say pitching wins championships. This is going to be a heck of a World Series.<br />My prediction based on nothing: Rangers in 6Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-6662237389090613822010-10-20T23:14:00.000-04:002010-10-21T10:46:09.260-04:00Pretender, Contender or just plain Awful PT. II + Welcome Back Deion!Rankings Continued:<br /><br />Hot n' Cold (Jacksonville Jaguars)<br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Jacksonville </span>(3-3)<br />Like Tampa Bay, they looked awful this past week. Luckily for them, Josh Scobee's 59 yard game winning field goal against Indy is still in the back of a lot of people's minds. The Jags are not a playoff team in the AFC, and play in the hardest division in the NFL, but they are not far away. They seem to be missing a playmaker on both sides of the ball. MJD has been good, but not great this year, and the defense is solid. Unfortunately, solid doesn't get it done in the AFC South. [Trending: 8-8 season. Good for the best last place record in recent memory. Mediocre]<br /><br />Where is Mariano Rivera when you need him? (Denver Broncos, Washington Redskins)<br />I don't even need to differentiate these teams from each other, because they are so similar. They are similar especially in one category: closing. They can't finish. They get SO close, it just doesn't happen. You kind of feel bad for them. It's like the Jamaicans in "Cool Runnings," they come so close to winning, but at the last second the bobsled falls apart. The Redskins have had a few games come down to the last play, and the Broncos have lost by less than a TD a couple of times. Both have a QB who can air it out (how about Kyle Orton! He looks awesome) and some good playmakers on both sides of the ball, but neither team can figure it out in the 4th quarter. I think the problem with these teams is defense. They aren't getting stops when it really matters. If the defenses can turn it around, both of these teams could be tough to beat down the stretch. [Trending: Say it with me: D- Fence! (clap clap) D- Fence! (clap clap) D- Fence! Upwards]<br /><br />The rest of the rankings I will do without explanations because I am lazy, and because no one really knows who's better than who from here on out:<br />15. Chicago Bears [Trending: Atrocious offensive line is going to be their demise. Downwards]<br />14. Houston Texans [Trending: Their defense reminds me of the Pats D from 2 years ago. Nuff' Said. Literally, it is impossible to predict what will happen with them]<br />13.Green Bay Packers [Trending: They must get healthy, or they are going to find themselves out of the playoffs. Down, for now]<br />12. Miami Dolphins [Trending: Too inconsistent for the top 10. Must figure out their special teams problems. Holding steady]<br />11. Tennessee Titans [Trending: Thanks to a couple of blowouts, this team has the best point differential in the league. I'm still not sold. Upwards regardless]<br />10. Atlanta Falcons [Trending: Considered the best in the NFC until this week, they seem way too shaky both offensively and defensively. Slightly downwards.]<br />9. New York Giants [Trending: Would have put them higher, but they should have beaten the Lions more handily. A win is a win though. Rising quickly.]<br />8. Kansas City Chiefs [Trending: Two or three plays away from being undefeated, this is a very good team which remains underrated. Upwards]<br />7. New Orleans Saints [Trending: Almost unstoppable with a running game. Back to the playoffs]<br />6. Philadelphia Eagles [Trending: With Kolb or Vick, this team is the class of the NFC. Upwards]<br />5. Indianapolis Colts [Trending: Peyton Manning is amazing. Playoffs]<br />4. Baltimore Ravens [Trending: This team could be 6-0 or 2-4. Defense is very good, and offense is balanced well. Playoffs]<br />3. New England Patriots [Trending: If the Defense plays as well as they did in the 4th quarter and overtime (HUGE if), they are almost impossible to beat. Upwards]<br />2. New York Jets [Trending: Sanchez is back to planet earth, Tomlinson is still floating in space though. The defense is still great, but Revis looks mediocre. Upwords]<br />1. Pittsburgh Steelers [Trending: Just got back a top 5 quarterback, and were already a top team. They are the best in the NFL until they lose with Roethlisberger. Top seed in the AFC]<br /><br />OK! Well, that is the last time I do a 32 team ranking! Moving on...<br /><br />Lets talk Patriots football:<br />1) What a freakin huge win! And what a game! That was one of the most exciting regular season games that I can remember. It sort of reminds me of the Patriots-Texans game from 2003. We seemed lost on offense the whole game, but Tom brought us back in the end of the 4th, and then we won it in overtime. Thing is, our defense and special teams won it this time just as much as Tommy Boy. Great game all around.<br />2) Zoltan Mesko had his breakout game (wait, can you even say that for a punter?) capped off by an absolute BOMB in overtime. That punt killed Baltimore's chance at good field position, and also didn't allow a chance for a return, which always seems to swing overtime games. This is the second game in a row that may have been won by special teams. Last game it was the return unit and the block units, and this week it was Gostkowski and Zoltan. It is always nice to see the special teams get some credit, and they certainly have earned it these past couple of games.<br />3) Where did that defense come from? In the first 3 quarters, it was same old for the Pats D. They were getting killed by the pass, and couldn't seem to get off the field on third downs. By the time the game was over, the Ravens were a paltry 5-16 on third down attempts. The D did a fantastic job of limiting the explosive Ray Rice (who killed us in the playoffs last year) to just 3.1 YPC and a game long of just 8 yards. We haven't seen that in these parts since the good ole' days of Richard Seymour, Ted Washington and Tedy Bruschi.<br />4) Deion Branch! Welcome Back! I can't say enough about how well he played. Once the offense got into a rhythm (I'll admit, it took a while) it was so fun to watch Tom and Deion play pitch and catch. (<a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/new-england-patriots/09000d5d81b76e41/Brady-reunited-with-Branch">http://www.nfl.com/videos/new-england-patriots/09000d5d81b76e41/Brady-reunited-with-Branch</a>) It brought me back to the last Super Bowl win, where I watched Deion rip apart the fast Eagles defense for 133 yards on 11 catches and take home the Super Bowl MVP. My brothers and I met him and his whole family during the post game party (thanks dad!), and he couldn't have been a nicer dude (unlike Corey Dillon, what a JERK). I am happy to have him back, and I think he is happy to be back. There is an awesome piece about him in this weeks Monday Morning Quarterback by Peter King:<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/10/17/mmqb/1.html">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/10/17/mmqb/1.html</a><br />[Should be right at the top of the page. If not, this is page 2 of the article.]<br />5) Aaron Hernandez is human. After playing out of his mind for the first few weeks, we finally saw some chinks in the 20 year old's armor. He had two very costly drops in overtime. He would have been the goat if it weren't for Brady and Branch's heroics on the last drive.<br />6) The Ravens defense is unbelievably good, and they still don't have perennial pro-bowler Ed Reed. They are so fast, and so strong, they completely shrink the field. If Flacco can emerge into a superstar in the second half of the season, this team will probably be in the Super Bowl.<br />7) Haloti Ngata is the best defensive tackle in the league. He is also probably the third best defensive player in the NFL behind Polamalu and Peppers. He is absolutely gigantic (6'4, 350) and is extremely quick for a man his size. He wreaked havoc on the Sanchize in week 1, had a monster game in Baltimore's win over Pittsburgh (11 tackles, 1 sack), and had another terrific game this week (7 tackles, 2 sacks). He may be the only athlete in the world who could both literally and figuratively carry his whole team on his shoulders.<br />8) I refuse to write about big hits and concussions, because everyone else is doing it, and honestly, what do I know. But Brandon Meriweather is a moron. His hit on Todd Heap was not only vicious, but stupid. The penalty cost the defense a third down stop. Meriweather constantly gives Belichick reasons to yank him from the game, and one of these times, he is not going to be put back in.<br />9) Danny Woodhead. Wow. This kid doesn't go down. What an awesome game from him. He rejuvenated the running game after BJGE's TD run (he had 10 rushes for 20 yards. O, Boy.) There were some times where he literally seemed to come out of nowhere and gain 10 yards. Tom Brady needs a player like him to succeed, and he seems to thrive in the Kevin Falk-type role of checkdown reciever and draw-play runner. He is going to get a ton of snaps from here on out. Did I mention he is my height!!<br /><br />On to the links:<br /><br />Shaughnessy's article on the Patriots really brings home the old school feel that comes with watching the new look Pats:<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/dan_shaughnessy/10/17/pats.insider/index.html">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/dan_shaughnessy/10/17/pats.insider/index.html</a><br /><br />As usual, MacMullen wrote a perfect piece:<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nfl/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5697629">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nfl/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5697629</a><br /><br />I wrote yesterday that he's an A-Hole. This is just strange:<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5706748">http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5706748</a><br /><br />Very interesting observation (taken from Yahoo Sports):<br /><a href="http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/10/19/meriweathers-penalty-was-more-costly-than-a-one-game-suspension/">http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/10/19/meriweathers-penalty-was-more-costly-than-a-one-game-suspension/</a><br /><br />I don't like Lebron, and apparently other people don't as well (I don't condone the racism though):<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/news/story?id=5707475">http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/news/story?id=5707475</a><br /><br />On to youtube:<br /><br />RIDICULOUS one handed catch by Pierre Garcon of the Colts (look at the angle at the 31 second mark. Just outrageous):<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGVEAEIaymI">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGVEAEIaymI</a><br /><br />2 Outrageous plays by the best defensive player in the league, Troy Polamalu (not from this week):<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DyzASDVpwU">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DyzASDVpwU</a><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGlFqdjYqu4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGlFqdjYqu4</a><br /><br />A hit that went under the radar this weekend:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpPtiCeuQFM&feature=related">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpPtiCeuQFM&feature=related</a><br /><br />I wrote about Bradford last time. This is why, most rookies can't make this throw:<br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/st-louis-rams/09000d5d81b64a06/QB-Bradford-to-WR-Alexander-38-yd-pass-TD">http://www.nfl.com/videos/st-louis-rams/09000d5d81b64a06/QB-Bradford-to-WR-Alexander-38-yd-pass-TD</a><br /><br />Who do you start? Vick or Kolb?<br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/philadelphia-eagles/09000d5d81b66494/QB-Kolb-to-WR-Maclin-83-yd-pass-TD">http://www.nfl.com/videos/philadelphia-eagles/09000d5d81b66494/QB-Kolb-to-WR-Maclin-83-yd-pass-TD</a><br /><br />Hilarious video my brother sent to me. You gotta love High School Football in Texas:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mh-d3CEkl-4&feature=player_embedded">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mh-d3CEkl-4&feature=player_embedded</a><br /><br />And another thing:<br />Even before tonight's victory over the Rangers, I felt like the Yanks weren't done. The last 3 games of the series are going to be an absolute slugfest. If the Rangers don't win game 6, the Yanks will win in 7.Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-38914123674355104782010-10-18T20:39:00.000-04:002010-10-18T23:28:19.622-04:00Pretender, Contender or just plain AwfulI feel like Will Ferrell in Old School- "we are streaking through the quad to the gymnasium! Everyone's doing it!!" As a writer who likes football, I feel like I have to write about which teams I believe are for real. I mean, hey, everyone's doing it.<br /><br />We'll go from worst to first. Part One today, Part Two tomorrow.<br /><br />The Dynamic Duo (Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buffalo</span> (0-5)- Being a Bills fan is like cutting onions: you cry every time you open your eyes. The Bills are so bad that they might get relocated to Toronto. Canada. That bad.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Carolina</span> (0-5)- As bad as the Bills are, the Panthers might just be as bad. Despite superduperstar receiver Steve Smith, this offense is atrocious. At the end of last year, there was some hope for this season as Matt Moore came into his own. And now, Moore is on the bench, and everyone feels bad for Jimmy Clausen. You think that defense misses Julius Peppers?<br /><br />Hopeless. For now. (Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cleveland</span> (1-5)- Have lost some games this year that they could have won, but there is a reason they lost. This team has no veteran leaders who have been there, done that. Peyton Hillis looks like a diamond in the rough, and the defense has been serviceable, but this team has a ton of holes. Colt McCoy looked pretty good on Sunday against a ridiculous Pittsburgh defense. Keep an eye on him. [Trending: steadily awful]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Detroit</span> (1-5)- I would say that it is unfair to drop them this low after losing their franchize (these Jets fans are really rubbing off on me) quarterback in week 1, but Shaun Hill looked like the second coming of Joe Montana last week. OK, so it was against the Rams, but he looked good again this week against the F-is-for-ferocious Giants defense until he broke his arm (Drew Stanton even played OK, huh?). This team has some potential (Stafford, Best, Johnson and Suh), but it seems they will be cellar dwellers for one more year. [Trending: until they get a QB, downwards]<br /><br />Preseason Darlings (Oakland Raiders, SF 49ers, SD Chargers, Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Minnesota Vikings)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span>Aside from Oakland, all of these teams were considered playoff teams, or even serious Super Bowl contenders. I was amazed to read before the season began how many writers thought the Raiders were going to be "sleepers" this year (<a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/official-sleeper-pick-NFL-2010-season-082410">http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/official-sleeper-pick-NFL-2010-season-082410</a>). This season, more than any other in recent history, proves how little sports writers actually know (besides me, I know everything).<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Oakland </span>(2-4) Could be 3-3 if Sebastion Janikowski would've had a decent game against Arizona a few weeks ago. Still, this team seems lost. Jason Campbell wasn't the answer at quarterback. Bruce Gradkowski certainly isn't getting them to the playoffs. They aren't far away, but they aren't close either. (Quick rant- this year's Raiders remind me of the Toronto Blue Jays- they have some random talent, and they could win a few games, but they aren't threatening anyone. Both are 2 or 3 impact players away from being contenders) [Trending: nowhere fast]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SF </span>(1-5)- Sorry Simmons, better luck next year (Simmons' prediction for the 49ers: 13-3!<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/preview100909">http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/preview100909</a>) Anyway, I don't think anyone saw this coming. They have been on the brink for a few years now, and everyone was hopping on the Mike Singletary bandwagon. And then the wheels fell off. Very quickly. There are a lot of things wrong with this team, but it seems like they have the talent to compete. They just aren't competing. Simple as that (I think). [Trending: couldn't possibly get any worse, right?]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SD </span>(2-4)- Like everyone else, I am dumbfounded. Did this team really just lose to Oakland and St. Louis back to back?! Really? Wow. This team could easily lose 10 games this season. To add to their troubles, All-Pro Antonio Gates went down with an injury this past week. [Trending: downwards, fast]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cincinnati </span>(2-3)- I don't know how this team beat Baltimore. Carson Palmer has been shaky (possibly the understatement of the year) and their power running game has lacked consistency. Preseason favorites to win/compete for the AFC North title, they would be lucky to finish at 500. Terrell Owens has looked rejuvenated though, and if Palmer can find his mojo, they might just be able to eke out 10 wins and a potential wild card spot (might be the least likely scenario in all of sports. That, or Vernon Gholston becoming an impact player. Pick your poison.) [Trending: towards a dark place]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dallas</span> (1-4)- Despite a huge amount of talent, this team simply can not put it together. I would not be surprised to see a wanted for murder poster with Jerry Jones' face on it in the next few weeks. Imagine spending a billion dollars on a new stadium, a ton of time and energy to get that stadium a Super Bowl, and watching your team of superstars play with the effort of Manny Ramirez in the outfield. I mean it is truly unbelievable that this team has one win. If they don't wake up, Coach Phillips (who may or may not be alive at this point) is gone, and there will be a whole lot of roster turnover this offseason. [Trending: Their owner might kill a man. You tell me]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Minnesota</span> (2-3)- Probably less talented then the Cowboys, but somehow managed to beat them yesterday. I wrote about Percy Harvin last time- this is why: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aotu7mcNusQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aotu7mcNusQ</a><br />These types of players win you games, and the Vikings have a few of them (Harvin, Moss, Jared Allen). Like I said before, when they get Sidney Rice back, look out. [Trending: upwards]<br /><br />Somehow, Some Way, Surviving (Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams, Arizona Cardinals)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seattle </span>(3-2)- Another one of those, "Whattttt???" teams. They aren't that good, but they are playing in a terrible division, and have won some close games. Apparently, Pete Carroll has them playing hard, I just don't see this team winning more than 8 games. Could possibly steal a playoff spot (and subsequently get destroyed in the first round). By the way, maybe Matt Millen wasn't such a bad GM- Mike Williams looked pretty good on Sunday! Just kidding, he may be one of the worst GM's in recorded history. [Trending: somewhere, possibly a black hole- no one really knows whats going on here]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">St. Louis </span>(3-3) Looked horrendous last week, and very good this week. The Rams have a chance to be good, it just seems like they are more likely to emerge next season. Bradford looks like the real deal, unfortunately, all of his top receivers are dropping like flies. [Trending: holding their own- not good, not bad]<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Arizona</span> (3-2) Could Max Hall be the answer? [Trending: as far as Hall takes them]<br /><br />Hot n' Cold (TB Buccaneers)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TB</span> (3-2)- Started off strong, probably the class of the division. Bump in the road this week against New Orleans, but Freeman still looks like a young Roethlisberger making very strong throws, and being quite a mobile quarterback. [Trending: towards the playoffs]<br /><br />----------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Quick Thoughts from around the NFL:<br /><br />- Sanchez looks like himself again. Phew.<br />Every Patriot fan can exhale, because Mark Sanchez is back to being the second coming of Vinny Testaverde. OK, he isn't that bad, but some of his throws the past two weeks have been downright maddening for Jets fans. Did you see his interception this week? Inexcusable. (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVWNVUe2pL4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVWNVUe2pL4</a> - the first play) Luckily for him, the Broncos gave the Jets every opportunity to win the game, and they took advantage. I'm not saying the Jets didn't deserve to win, I'm just saying the Broncos should have won that game. Either way, the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets are 5-1, and have 2 out of their next three games against the Lions and Browns. Again, this AFC race is going to be very exciting until the end.<br /><br />-Sam Bradford might be worth every penny.<br />For someone who made 50 million before his first snap as a pro, Sam Bradford was going to have to be pretty damn good, pretty damn quickly. He has answered the call. Playing with that offensive line, and those receivers, he has done everything he could possibly do to keep the Rams in contention. Bradford is going to be an elite quarterback within a few years if he can find some help and get some protection.<br /><br />-What is up with the NFC?<br />There doesn't seem to be any real contenders in the whole division. Atlanta was considered the best, but they don't look too impressive. Matt Ryan still hasn't recovered that magic from his rookie year. The Giants could be a top team, but they are very inconsistent right now. If the defense keeps it up though, they will resemble their squad from 2007 (minus gunman Plaxico Burress). I guess the Eagles and Saints are contenders, but they really aren't scaring anyone. The contenders look like they are all in the AFC.<br /><br />-James Harrison is an A-Hole.<br />I don't care what position you play, or what you are paid to do. This is disgusting.<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5699976">http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5699976</a><br /><br />Links to come tomorrow. Enjoy, and tell me what you think of the rankings!<br /><br />And one last thing:<br />How bout dem Yankees!Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-63075417113993302492010-10-11T13:52:00.000-04:002010-10-12T18:09:22.431-04:00Jets fan for a nightLast year, I had a fun Sociology class. The teacher assigned us some very entertaining books, like Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell, and Gang Leader for a Day by Sudhir Venkatesh. I especially enjoyed Gang Leader, because it felt real. Because I liked the authenticity of the story, I decided to watch a TV show with a similar story to tell- The Wire. Needless to say, I loved The Wire so much that I actually made myself sick because I couldn't ever go to sleep. Absolutely fantastic show (WATCH IT!). It made me feel like I <span style="font-style: italic;">knew</span> the city of Baltimore. Anyway, I am waaaay off topic. What I wanted to say was that I decided to try the premise of Gang Leader for a Day on myself. I would attempt the impossible: I would watch the Jets-Vikings game as a Jets fan, with Jets fans, and I would try to be the biggest fan in the room.<br /> I went the whole nine yards, wearing a throwback Leon Washington jersey a friend lent to me. Lets just put it this way, once you're a die hard Pats fan, you CAN NOT root for the Jets. It is literally impossible. My body, mind and soul were all rebelling against my little experiment. When Nick Folk kicked that opening kickoff out of bounds, and the ref threw the flag for an illegal kick- I jumped out of my seat and screamed, "HA! YOUR KICKER SUCKS!" Then I realized I was wearing a Leon jersey, and I probably looked like a moron. I took off the jersey, laughed with my friends about how quickly my experiment failed, and I moved on.<br /> I had a pretty bad feeling in my stomach about the game (I figured it would be a 24-13 Jets victory). Especially with the rain, thunder and lightning, I thought the Jets had a nice advantage over the fleet-footed Vikings. Things started out ugly, with lots of 3 and outs, a few field goals and more than a handful of dropped passes. Favre looked awful. He was throwing rockets into the ground, he lost a fumble on the transfer from the center, and lost a fumble when the ball fell right out of his hands. After Favre's second fumble I had flashbacks of Super Bowl XLI when Rex Grossman screwed the pooch big time(<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LpCKxdGH_U&feature=related">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LpCKxdGH_U&feature=related</a>) It really wasn't pretty. Luckily for the Vikings, the Jets couldn't get the ball into the endzone, and put the game out of reach. The Jets' inability to generate TD's set up the great 4th quarter. Between Sanchez throwing near picks, and Favre finding his rhythm (What a great throw to #84!) the game seemed to be turning into a Favre classic. Aside all the history between Favre and the Jets, this past week has done quite a number on Favre's reputation. Honestly, there are some parts of the story that are so disturbing, even scarring, that I'd rather you hop on over to <a href="http://deadspin.com/">deadspin.com</a> (WARNING: adult content) if you want to know all the dirty,<span style="font-style: italic;"> little</span>, details (Wink, Wink). Anyway, despite some terrific throws by Favre in that 4th quarter, I think everyone was sort of bracing for that deadly game-sealing interception. Favre has been absolutely great these last few years for a guy his age, but the fact that late-game, killer interceptions are becoming the norm does not bode well for the Vikings chances this year (and the chances of Favre playing another season in the NFL). It seems as if every season ends on a Favre interception. (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icaMH-yT99I">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icaMH-yT99I</a>) The one against the Dolphins in 2008, which destroyed Matt Cassel and the Patriots' playoff hopes, was just awful. He threw it right to the defense, UGH.<br />What we learned last night:<br />1) Mark Sanchez may not have turned the corner quite yet. He looked terrible in the second half, and was very lucky that Antoine Winfield didn't break his perfect TD-INT ratio. Although, I admit, he didn't get help from his receivers. Dustin Keller dropped a couple passes, one of which was a dive attempt in the end zone (another was a third and short). Despite being a tough catch, the way Keller has been playing, I have to believe that in a good weather game that ball is being caught.<br />2) Ladanian Tomlinson is for real. Watching the game last night, it felt like I was watching LT circa 2007. He doesn't seem to be that home run threat anymore, but he certainly is running at a pro-bowl level right now. If he can sustain this success over the long haul, and that is a BIG if, the Jets are going to be very tough to beat.<br />3) Brett Favre doesn't get rattled. Yes, he threw the game-clinching interception, but despite the uncertainty which surrounded him all week, he had a pretty good performance. Considering Favre is on the brink of possibly becoming the next Tiger Woods (who, by the way, hasn't been able to return to form since his scandal), and the fact that he looked atrocious in the first three quarters, the poise and focus he showed in the 4th quarter was pretty remarkable.<br />4) Darelle Revis isn't Darelle Revis. Watching Revis last year, you almost felt like he had a better chance at the ball than the receiver he was covering. So far this year, he has looked above average, but not extraordinary. That whole holdout situation is looking worse and worse for both Revis (whose inability to get into game shape may have been the cause for his hamstring injury) and the Jets (who put a lot of money into a player they thought would transform their defense- so far, he absolutely has not).<br />5) Percy Harvin is very good. Obviously, he is extremely athletic, and can do a lot with the ball in his hands (witness his return game, and his ability to run after catch). But what surprised me was how good of a receiver he was. That catch in the back of the end zone reminded me of players like Larry Fitzgerald or Andre Johnson. Once the Vikes get Sidney Rice back, they will have the best trio in the league with him, Harvin and Moss. Those are three legitimate number ones.<br /><br />On to the links:<br />Articles-<br /><br />I know this is a little late, because you all have probably read this (and/or are sick of it) but the Simmons article on Randy Moss was a masterpiece. He literally hit on every important aspect of the trade from the perspective of a fan and reporter.<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/101008&sportCat=nfl">http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/101008&sportCat=nfl</a><br /><br />Peter King's must weekly must read for all football fans.<br /><a href="http://si.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=Tampa+Bay+reaching+3-1%2C+Brett+Favre+under+investigation+par+for%A0season+in+2010+-+Peter+King+-+SI.com&expire=&urlID=437926337&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsportsillustrated.cnn.com%2F2010%2Fwriters%2Fpeter_king%2F10%2F11%2FWeek5%2Findex.html&partnerID=2356">http://si.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=Tampa+Bay+reaching+3-1%2C+Brett+Favre+under+investigation+par+for%A0season+in+2010+-+Peter+King+-+SI.com&expire=&urlID=437926337&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsportsillustrated.cnn.com%2F2010%2Fwriters%2Fpeter_king%2F10%2F11%2FWeek5%2Findex.html&partnerID=2356</a><br /><br />It is truly unbelievable what the media will do for a story. Regardless of truth, this story is just ridiculous.<br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/19782/report-brady-moss-fought-over-hair">http://espn.go.com/blog/afceast/post/_/id/19782/report-brady-moss-fought-over-hair</a><br /><br />Fun article by Laker groupie J.A. Adande about Lebron and Durant.<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=adande_ja&page=lebronkd-100109">http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=adande_ja&page=lebronkd-100109</a><br /><br />Crazy article about athletes and concussions which is circulating on ESPN today. The players seem to finally be taking a stand.<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/news/story?id=5677532">http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/news/story?id=5677532</a><br /><br />Sports Illusrated Special Report. This article will change the way you think about sports agents forever.<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/magazine/10/12/agent/index.html?eref=sihp">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/magazine/10/12/agent/index.html?eref=sihp</a><br /><br /><br />Youtube-<br /><br />Three great interceptions by defensive lineman. These guys are special- unbelievable athleticism!<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUaTtkbZdZc">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUaTtkbZdZc</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTAfctc0Leg">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTAfctc0Leg</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9f2-Kd7VkA">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9f2-Kd7VkA</a><br /><br />Great catch here to set up win for Bucs. But was it a catch? You decide. (Don Banks of SI.com brings a good point- what do you think Calvin Johnson's reaction is to this?)<br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d81b362a1/Spurlock-sets-up-winning-field-goal">http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d81b362a1/Spurlock-sets-up-winning-field-goal</a><br /><br />Fun game between LSU and Florida, if you haven't seen it yet.<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTMSsDJhJus&feature=related">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTMSsDJhJus&feature=related</a><br /><br />Sick catch that I came across by Hakeem Nicks at UNC. He's having an awesome year for the Giants.<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2ikDsi-DJA">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2ikDsi-DJA</a><br /><br />A little youtube extra from last year. Truly unbelievable. (By the way, Iguodala's shot which is on the side tab is also pretty sweet)<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pawMSgU-E-k&feature=rec-LGOUT-exp_fresh+div-1r-10-HM">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pawMSgU-E-k&feature=rec-LGOUT-exp_fresh+div-1r-10-HM</a><br /><br /><br />And one last thing:<br />Love the trade for Deion Branch by the Patriots. He was one of Brady's favorite targets, and he always came through in the clutch. Despite his age, I think Branch will come right in and become a big part of this offense. He gets open well downfield and has very good hands and run-after-catch ability. Look what he did against the Pats two years ago (and listen to the announcer, he is so excited, it is almost scary. It is at the 1:34 mark of the video)<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzInf2CDWA0"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzInf2CDWA0</span></a>Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-73929283639736313422010-10-07T10:30:00.000-04:002010-10-11T02:54:35.065-04:00The end of the Patriots offense as we know itOK. Breath, just breathe. We aren't completely screwed, right? Did we actually just trade Randy Moss for a third round pick? Yes. A third round pick? A THIRD FREAKIN ROUND PICK! Are you kidding me?<br />Regardless of what was happening with Randy and "offensive coordinator" Bill O'Brien (I put quotation marks because we all know that Belichick runs this team from top to bottom), or even between Randy and King Belichick himself, there is no way that his value is equal to a third round pick. There are at least a dozen teams that are in dire need of a number one, and I would bet most teams want Randy Moss. And for a third round pick? They would have flown into Boston and kissed Belichick's rings! Except maybe Rex. I can't possibly accept the fact that the Patriots' best offer for one of the top receivers in the league, one of the most athletically gifted pass catchers of our time, the current record holder for most receiving TD's in league history, was a third round pick!<br />Now lets be clear. If Belichick was going to trade him, he was going to get him the hell out of the AFC. This alone makes me believe that Belichick thinks Randy's got a lot left in the tank. Believe it or not, I've read opinions of people who mention his 9 catches this year and dropped passes, who say that Randy is deteriorating before our eyes. Yes, he has lost a step since his ridiculous 2007 campaign. And yes, he has dropped a few balls that he used to catch. But this is the guy who makes the whole offense work. By the way, if we are going to say that Belichick wanted him out of the AFC, lets take a look at a few teams who would've probably upped the ante if given the chance:<br />Redskins-<br />They are tied in first place in the NFC East. Adding Moss would surely provide a boost to an offense struggling to score through the air. It would also help them pull themselves out of the pack in the crowded NFC East.<br />Bears-<br />They are tied for first in the NFC North, and they have Jay Cutler playing at a pretty high level (we will forget last game, because his offensive line was atrocious). His best receiver right now is Devin Hester. Yes, he was drafted as a cornerback. So I would go ahead and say, that despite a nice season from Hester so far, Mike Martz would kill for the chance to make Moss the bigger, more athletic version of the Isaac Bruce in his offense. This would make them an instant Super Bowl contender. I can't even remember the last time the Bears had an elite number one (Marty Booker anyone??) Check this out:<br /><a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/top-ten-chicago-sports/2009/06/top-ten-chicago-bears-wide-receivers-of-the-last-25-years.html">http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/top-ten-chicago-sports/2009/06/top-ten-chicago-bears-wide-receivers-of-the-last-25-years.html</a><br />Falcons- Already a serious contender in the NFC, could you imagine an offense led by Matt Ryan with Michael "the Burner" Turner, Roddy White, Randy Moss AND Tony Gonzalez! That immediately becomes a top 3 offense in the NFL.<br />Buccaneers- Because they started off hot, perhaps the Bucs would've taken a chance on Moss. They already have two huge targets in Kellen Winslow and Mike Williams. Adding Moss would give budding quarterback Josh Freeman another big down-field threat. A lot of fans thought this would be another putrid year for a franchise that hasn't quite recovered from their Super Bowl hangover, but put Moss on this team in this conference, and the Bucs may be able to squeak out a playoff spot.<br />Cardinals/Rams/Seahawks-<br />In the pitiful NFC West (<a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/100924">http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmonsnfl2010/100924</a>), anything is possible. There have been multiple writers who have speculated that this could be the first 6 win division winner. If so, I believe any of these teams would put themselves in a better position for a playoff berth by adding a talent like Moss. The Cardinals could team him with Larry Fitzgerald for possibly the greatest WR tandem in NFL history. The Rams could get a number one for Sam Bradford, who is in dire need of a top receiver after the injury to Donnie Avery. The Seahawks offense is atrocious, any addition would be welcomed.<br /><br />My question is, did the Patriots call these teams? Did they find the best value for their most talented skill position player? Or did they just make a quick call to the Vikings, who everyone knew was in the hunt for a number one (after the VJax talks fell through) and assume this is where the best value would be?<br /><br />I don't know the answers to these questions, but they are very frustrating to think about. Moss was the greatest receiver in Patriots history. He was the most explosive, exciting player they have ever had. In 2007 he was a one man wrecking crew (with the help of Gisele. oops. I mean Tom). He <span style="font-style: italic;">averaged</span> just a smidgen under a TD per game since he joined the team. And we literally traded him for nothing. Give me a second while I gauge my eyes out with a plastic fork.<br /><br />Ok, I'm back. I just want to give you something to think about. The following stats are completely made up and have no supporting proofs whatsoever.<br />A third round pick (in my opinion) has:<br />a 10 percent chance of becoming a starter<br />a 2 percent chance of becoming a pro bowler<br />and a .00001 percent chance of becoming the next Randy Moss<br /><br />OK, I'm done crying about the fact that we traded the key to our offense for a third round pick. Now I'm going to discuss how Randy's departure affects the Patriots offense. Well, in a word, his departure is devastating. He explained his role in the offense a few weeks ago saying, "I take the top off the defense." By doing this, Randy opened up all of those underneath routes for Wes Welker, and the intermediate routes for Aaron Hernandez (who, by the way, is an unbelievable player. Great hands, fantastic after the catch, a real keeper. And he's only 20!). Now what do we do? There is no doubt teams will start paying a lot more attention to Wes, and from what we saw from the Patriots' two games without Wes last season (we had a dreadful loss to the Jets where Brady looked lost, a nice win over the Falcons in what was Fred Taylor's last effective game as a Patriot, and the shocking playoff loss to the Ravens where our offense was abysmal) the offense doesn't fare too well without him. Guess who we play next? You guessed it, the Ravens! That's going to be fun. It's not like they haven't gotten much better since that game...O wait, they added Anquan Boldin and TJ Houshmandzadeh? S#%@<br /><br />I don't think the offense is going to all the sudden plummet to Lions-like levels. We still have Tom, Wes, Aaron, Gronk and an emerging Brandon Tate. The "Energizer Bunny" (Julian Edelman) has looked dead, but if he could emerge, we would still have one of the top receiving/tight end groups in the AFC. Playing without Moss will be tough, but it won't be impossible. At least we get to see him in Gillete one more time. Circle October 31st on your calender. It's going to be a doozy.<br /><br />On to the links:<br />Youtube-<br />Hilarious interview that my brother sent me-<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltpqPd3t5V0">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltpqPd3t5V0</a><br /><br />Roy Halladay is just unbelievable. He keeps chugging along. I had a conversation with a friend yesterday, and we agreed: overall, Roy Halladay has been the best pitcher in the league since 2002.<br />[Video was taken down due to copyright infringement. Check youtube for a good one]<br /><br />A tribute, to one of the greatest performances in NFL history, and one of the greatest years of my life as a sports fan. You may want to sit down for this, some of these catches are absolutely ridiculous. Enjoy the show, and if you're a Pats fan, you should probably weep.<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I26xg8VOS8w">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I26xg8VOS8w</a><br /><br />Say hello to the start of the Semih Erden era in Boston. This kid looked awesome last night going 3-3 from the field, 7-8 from the line for 13 points, to go along with 5 rebounds (2 offensive) and 2 blocks in only 23 minutes! Check out this block, which won block of the night awards over at NBA.com- it is nothing special, but people in Boston seem to be pretty excited about this Turk-<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-nCu5QqLbo">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-nCu5QqLbo</a><br /><br />Articles:<br /><br />Mazz is always good for a solid read. Nice take on the Moss trade-<br /><a href="http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/massarotti/2010/10/with_moss_it_was_really_just_a.html">http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/massarotti/2010/10/with_moss_it_was_really_just_a.html</a><br /><br />Great article by Shaughnnessy regarding the Moss trade. I swear I didn't read this before I wrote the article- there are some similar ideas in here-<br /><a href="http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2010/10/07/flagging_this_misstep_as_delay_of_gain/#"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2010/10/07/flagging_this_misstep_as_delay_of_gain/#</span></a><br /><br />Fantastic Article by MacMullan. She always seems to write the right things-<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nfl/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5656758">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nfl/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5656758</a><br /><br />Can an article make you happy (Lebron's not MVP) and sad (Lakers win, AGAIN!) at the same time?<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5654644">http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5654644</a><br /><br />Great comparison by Tom Verducci-<br /><a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/tom_verducci/10/07/five.cuts.halladay/index.html?eref=sihp"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/tom_verducci/10/07/five.cuts.halladay/index.html?eref=sihp</span></a><br /><br /><br />And one last thing:<br />The Patriots have made 2 god awful trades in the last two years. The Seymour trade was certainly a surprise, but a Raiders first round pick is certainly good compensation. I am talking about the Matt Cassel-Mike Vrabel for a second round pick trade. At the time, people thought Cassel was a potential 26 year old franchise quarterback. So we trade a potential franchise quarterback and one of our few remaining veteran leaders and pass rushers for a second round pick! Why was Vrabel even in the deal? Because we were planning on replacing him? With who? Pierre Woods? Shawn Crable? There was no reason for us to add him in that deal. It adds more frustration when reports were leaked that the Broncos were offering a late first round pick for Cassel. I guess that's how it works in the NFL. You win some, you lose some.Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-75676144871400267272010-10-05T20:09:00.000-04:002010-10-06T18:00:12.839-04:00J-E-T-S suck suck suck? Maybe NotAfter week 1, everyone was absolutely blasting the Jets. Their offense looked abysmal, Jenkins got injured AGAIN (like my friend Josh said- "his knees are made of jelly"), and the defensive play calling was questionable at best. Rex was blitzing the house constantly, allowing the Baltimore receivers just enough time to get down field for QB Joe Flacco. In week 2 against the Pats, Rex was stubborn (surprise!) and stuck with his defensive game plan: attack the quarterback and pray you get to him before he can throw to a single covered receiver. Well, it didn't work. Luckily for Rex, the Patriots blew about 5 opportunities to take a commanding lead in the first half. You have the Moss play action just outside the end zone on the first drive. You have the Jets converting a 2nd and 20 from their own 15 on their way to a TD. You've got a missed field goal. Just a horribly blown chance for the Patriots to put away their division rivals. Had the Jets lost that game, they would have not only been 0-2 overall, but 0-2 at home which is the mark of death for a playoff hopeful.<br /><br />And then it happened: Rex made some defensive adjustments, Schottenheimer opened up the playbook, Sanchez stopped playing like a toddler, and the Jets found their identity.<br /><br />It happened right then in that locker room during halftime against the Pats. Since then, the Jets have outscored opponents 87-37. Sanchez has looked like an NFL quarterback, Dustin Keller has played like a pro-bowler, LT has risen from the dead (actually, last year he was a corpse) and looks completely re-energized, and the defense looks like its getting closer to being as dominant as people predicted before the season began.<br />After week 1, people wondered whether Sanchez "had what it takes" to be an NFL player. They thought he was immature, they thought he was inaccurate, and they thought that the coaches didn't quite trust him. In the last 3 weeks, Sanchez has built up his image as a true franchise (Sanchize) quarterback as fast as Lebron destroyed his nice guy, team player image during his ridiculous "Decision Special."<br />[Quick tangent- Lebron is an idiot. He had the whole basketball world eating out of his hand, and now he is basketball's villain. People hate Kobe, but they respect him and his 5 rings. Lebron? He's done nothing. Until he wins a championship he'll just be the great player who could potentially average a triple-double, but could never put it together enough to win a championship. This reminds me of a great Jeremy Piven ad from the NBA playoffs a few years back:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDUvcpDMVDE&p=C44B1CE204D5F144&playnext=1&index=83">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDUvcpDMVDE&p=C44B1CE204D5F144&playnext=1&index=83</a><br />Anyway, we all used to love Lebron, and now we hate him. By the way, I just looked at the Miami Heat roster from tonight's game. If only they had a decent center...]<br /><br />OK, back to football:<br />When the Jets couldn't put things together after Rex's infamous "now lets go eat a goddamn snack" speech, I figured there was nothing this poor guy could do to motivate his players. They were lazy, cocky, and too full of themselves (I wonder where that mentality came from??) For those of us lucky enough to have seen HBO's unbelievable Training Camp documentary, "Hardknocks," we saw the Jets players eating cheeseburgers before a scrimmage. Well, after the Jets horrific 14 penalty's for 125 yards debut against the Ravens, one had to wonder whether they devoured a few too many burgers before that game as well. I mean they looked awful, especially CB Antonio Cromartie (who I believe was one of the perpetrators of the aforementioned cheeseburger before scrimmage crime).<br />But, unfortunately for me, and fortunately for every one of my Jets fan friends (I hate you all)- the Jets didn't give up on the season after one and a half bad weeks, and now look like one of the favorites to come out of the AFC.<br /><br />A few quick hits on what facilitated the Jets unbelievable turnaround:<br />1) The offense looks extremely good, and that is because they have finally found a nice balance. Last year, the Jets relied way too heavily on the run game, and it ended up killing them in the AFC Championship game when they didn't have the firepower to keep up with Peyton's Colts. This year, their passing game looks almost unstoppable (Sanchez has thrown 8 TD's and 0 Int's. ZERO! He had 20 last year!) and I think it is just as much because of Dustin Keller and Ladanian Tomlinson as it is about Sanchize. Keller has given Sanchez a big target who gets open over the middle of the field and is awesome in the red zone. LT has given their running game the boost that Shonn Greene was expected to give them. He's running at a 6.1 YPC average, and has helped the Jets close out games against the Pats and Bills.<br />2) Trusting Sanchez. I think Schottenheimer finally realized that limiting the playbook was limiting Sanchez's ability to perform at a high level. Since Sanchez has started playing with confidence, he has looked like one of the better quarterbacks in the league.<br />3) I think on the defensive side of the ball two lower key players have stood out: Brodney Pool and Sione Pouha. Pool looked very good in the Patriots game, making a beautiful keep-your-feet-inbounds interception to give the Jets some breathing room in the third quarter. He and Eric Smith have made a nice tandem along with speedy Jim Leonhard. Although Pouha has been quiet the last couple of games, he has done a more than serviceable job filling in for Jenkins. His two fumble recoveries in week 1 gave the Jets a chance to win the game, and he helped smother the Pats run game in week 2.<br />4) This has nothing to do with the past few games, but to help sustain their success, they are getting back Superstar Holdout Darrelle Revis, the 2nd smartest player in the NFL (behind Braylon)- Santonio Holmes, and Calvin Pace.<br /><br />Being a Patriots fan from Boston, heaping praise on the Jets isn't easy. And to my fellow Patriots fans, I accept all of the "NY lover" curses you are sending my way. But please don't deduce from this article that I think the Jets are the team to beat in the AFC. In fact, I'm not even sure they are the team to beat in the AFC East. The Patriots are division champs until proven otherwise. I think these two teams are very even overall, and that the division race will come down to the wire (great show by the way). Both of these teams are built well for the postseason- the Jets have the bone crushing defense, the Patriots have Tom Brady.<br />Here's to a potential Patriots-Jets playoff game for all the marbles...<br /><br />Here are a couple of links to help you get through another Wednesday of work:<br /><br />Easterbrook writes ridiculously long articles which go WAY off topic, but overall a must read for all football fans:<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=easterbrook/101005_tuesday_morning_quarterback&sportCat=nfl">http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=easterbrook/101005_tuesday_morning_quarterback&sportCat=nfl</a><br /><br />From my roommate Matt, a Jets fan perspective on the Pats- Dolphins game. Typical Jets fan spinning everything so the Jets come out on top. You can't say the Patriots didn't deserve to win. Yes, maybe the Dolphins lost the game on some bad mistakes, but the Patriots executed their special teams gameplan to perfection (it is 1/3 of the game) and came out victorious!<br /><a href="http://www.thejetsblog.com/2010/10/05/dolphins-v-patriots-a-win-win/#more-31148">http://www.thejetsblog.com/2010/10/05/dolphins-v-patriots-a-win-win/#more-31148</a><br /><br />A feel good ending for Billy "the Kid" Wagner. Lets hope the Braves can win a championship for him this year, seems like a great guy and teammate:<br /><a href="http://cnnsi.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=His+fastball+still+hums%2C+his+-+10.04.10+-+SI+Vault&expire=&urlID=437251107&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.si.com%2Fvault%2Farticle%2Fmagazine%2FMAG1174900%2Findex.htm&partnerID=289881">http://cnnsi.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=His+fastball+still+hums%2C+his+-+10.04.10+-+SI+Vault&expire=&urlID=437251107&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.si.com%2Fvault%2Farticle%2Fmagazine%2FMAG1174900%2Findex.htm&partnerID=289881</a><br /><br />For those interested in a great sports finish, the Ryder Cup was unbelievable. Not a golf fan at all, but this article will help explain what happened and what it meant to the US:<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/golf/rydercup10/news/story?id=5647330">http://sports.espn.go.com/golf/rydercup10/news/story?id=5647330</a><br />(check youtube if you want video)<br /><br />Youtube:<br /><br />The difference maker. Great block by SamBam Morris, and great inside juke by Tate before he turns the corner:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhLRBRBntu4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhLRBRBntu4</a><br /><br />The start of a New Era:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMxpkFWp4gE">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMxpkFWp4gE</a><br /><br />A couple other thoughts on the Pats game last night that I forgot:<br />1) It looks like the Patriots have found their Devin Hester/Josh Cribbs. Brandon Tate is downright lethal on kick returns.<br />2) This wasn't mentioned on TV, so I missed it, but unfortunately Brandon Meriweather was taken out of the game with an injury, and it is unknown whether he will be back in action next week. This could be a huge blow to a secondary which has already lost its top cornerback for the year. Lets hope this is just a minor injury, as Meriweather was just starting to show flashes of his pro-bowl form.<br />3) I love Danny WoodheadEitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-62110513295200260702010-10-04T23:22:00.000-04:002010-10-05T01:31:35.531-04:00Welcome to the NFL Pat Chung and Rob NinkovitchWOW. What a second half there by the Patriots. Not quite what anyone expected, but this was a great win. Most people, myself included, thought this team was a playoff team just based on their offensive firepower. But tonight's game proved that their special teams and defense can make plays. Don't get me wrong, the defense wasn't pretty (unlike Tom Brady, did you see that post game interview!) but they got the job done when it mattered.<br />A few observations:<br />1)The first half was all Rob Ninkovitch. I bet most of the people watching the game hadn't ever heard of him, but those who have been following the Pats have seen some flashes of Mike Vrabel in him. Besides their sharing #50, they both are tough guys who fit in well with Belichicks 3-4 defenseive front. Ninkovitch has shown this year that he can make big-time plays and help set the tone for the defense. He had the big forced fumble/recovery in week 1, and may have saved this game with his 2 interceptions (and a sack) in the first half.<br />2)Before we move onto Pat Chung, lets talk about two other defensive guys real quick: Brandon Merriweather and Jerod Mayo. Merriweather was a pro-bowler last year, but hasn't played much through the first 3 weeks (we saw why when he took a horrendous angle on the CJ Spiller screen pass TD last week). But he had a few big time hits in the first half- the big stop of the wildcat on third and short, and the bone crushing hit he laid on Davone Bess on that screen pass. Both plays I hope to continue seeing moving forward. As for Mayo, I saw him getting a bunch of tackles over the middle, but this dude had 16 tackles, ALL solo. He may not be a playmaker quite yet, but he can damn sure tackle.<br />3) Pat Chung, probably the player of the game- blocked punt, blocked FG, INT for TD with 5 tackles. I was wondering where Pat was at the beginning of the game when our defense was looking slow. It seemed that Belichick was going with Merriweather and Sanders, both run-stopping safetys, but with Chung's special team plays, he forced his way into the lineup and put the cherry on top with his pick-6. I love his potential, although I would like to see him become more of an all-around defensive player before we crown him the next big thing.<br />4) I discussed BJGE last time, and now you know why. He looked really good, running hard, busting his way to a bunch of extra yards and a broken tackle 12 yard touchdown run.<br />5) Don't overrate this game too much. The defense didn't look good on third downs, and the offense wasn't great. Besides the special teams, the biggest spark was definitely the running game: BJGE and Woodhead looked awesome, and this was one of the first games I can remember where we didn't seem to lose yards on any runs (besides for one crappy Sammy Morris run)<br /><br />On to more football thoughts.<br />1) The AFC East is looking more and more like a 2 team race, as the Pats and Jets have beat Miami in Miami the last 2 weeks. The Bills, well, they just suck. At least they have Ryan "Sparkplug" Fitzpatrick. By the way, random note, I learned this past week that Fitzpatrick means the son of Patrick.<br />2) Andy Reid is an unlucky guy. I mean, he commits to a QB, next thing you know- BAM- concussion. Then Vick comes in and looks good, so he sticks with him- BAM- injury. Now Kolb is back in and everyone is second guessing and triple guessing every decision he makes. What would you have done? I would have done the same thing! Give the guy a damn break.<br />3) Josh Scobee Josh Scobee Josh Scobee Josh Scobee Josh Scobee (copyright- Sports Guy) Did you see what he said after the game? Neither did I, but thanks to my brother, we got this gem: "I don't know what I was thinking. I blacked out for about 10 seconds. It was incredible!" Sounds like a typical Thursday night.<br />4) Great call by Steve Young: the Kansas City Chiefs being the last undefeated team is the single craziest subplot of this NFL season. The Chiefs!<br /><br />And finally, a new addition to the blog, links. Everyone loves links, so I figured I would give you guys some sweet sports articles and videos to look at when your bored in class/at work tomorrow:<br /><br />Youtube:<br />Ridiculous one handed catch from St. Louis wideout Danny Amendola: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbsrb6E8xHo">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbsrb6E8xHo</a><br /><br />Great play all around by the 49ers special teams-<br /><a href="http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2LwDT-n5jk">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2LwDT-n5jk</a><br /><br />I hope this guy is OK, because concussions are really awful, but what a freakin hit (great song too, turn up your speakers)-<br /><a href="http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cw86NFVuus">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cw86NFVuus</a><br /><br />Sorry, I couldn't help myself:<br /><a href="http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQbdwr4-Iqg">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQbdwr4-Iqg</a><br /><br />Articles:<br /><br />Quick shoutout to the Giants defense who absolutely demolished Jay Cutler and helped keep my fantasy football team undefeated.<br />(<a href="http://http//sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=5649052">http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=5649052</a>)<br /><br />A couple Celtics articles for those who can't wait for NBA season:<br />Fun piece about SHAQ Diesel-<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5620537">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=macmullan_jackie&id=5620537</a><br />Nice article about one of my favorite former/current Celtics, Delonte West-<br /><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=may_peter&id=5632858">http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nba/columns/story?columnist=may_peter&id=5632858</a><br /><br />Classic LA athlete. Bill Plaschke writing about another pathetic surgery for the Lakers oft injured center, Andrew Bynum-<br /><a href="http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-0924-plaschke-20100924,0,735609.column">http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-0924-plaschke-20100924,0,735609.column</a><br /><br />Last, but not least, the weekly must read for all football fans from Peter King-<br /><a href="http://si.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=Donovan+McNabb%2C+LaDainian+Tomlinson+getting+last+laugh+-+Peter+King+-+SI.com&expire=&urlID=437394517&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsportsillustrated.cnn.com%2F2010%2Fwriters%2Fpeter_king%2F10%2F04%2Fweek4%2Findex.html&partnerID=2356">http://si.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=Donovan+McNabb%2C+LaDainian+Tomlinson+getting+last+laugh+-+Peter+King+-+SI.com&expire=&urlID=437394517&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsportsillustrated.cnn.com%2F2010%2Fwriters%2Fpeter_king%2F10%2F04%2Fweek4%2Findex.html&partnerID=2356</a><br /><br />Yes, I was nice enough to give you the print version so you only need to load one page.<br /><br />Week 4 ends (and the Pats are tied for first place), the baseball playoffs are starting (no one in Boston cares), and the NBA is right around the corner. Sounds pretty damn good to me!Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4998134803390937809.post-72216708857530893002010-10-03T21:50:00.001-04:002010-10-03T21:50:08.492-04:00Boston Sports KidI hate New York. Yes, I am a biased sports fan- surprise! I'm a born and raised Boston fan- Celtics, Pats, Red Sox and once upon a time I was a Bruins fan (I was a fan casualty of the lockout).<br />Let me just start with saying, if you haven't seen Josh Scobee's ridiculous 59 yard game winning field goal, check it out:<br />http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-cant-miss-plays/09000d5d81b0a1d4/WK-4-Can-t-Miss-Play-Scobee-drills-59-yard-game-winning-field-goal?module=HP_headlines<br /><br />Not only a crazy, once-in-a-lifetime kick, but it was to beat the Colts! I hate the Colts, really, really hate the Colts, but Peyton Manning is a goddamn good quarterback. I mean, I have seen lots of good quarterbacks play in person- Brady, Brees, Rivers, Mcnair, Favre etc. But with the exception of Brady in 2007, Manning is the only guy here that when he goes back to pass, you just KNOW he is throwing a completion. It doesn't matter if the guy is covered, or how far away he is, it's gonna be a perfect throw. Just watch any of his 2 minute offenses- he's a killer.<br /><br />Anyway, I plan on focusing on current sports events, and throwing around my biased opinions and observations. If you don't like it, don't read it. Simple as that. If you think I'm an idiot, post it in the comments.<br /><br />Lets talk some Pats- Dolphins, AFC East, Monday night showdown. I expect this to be an extremely tough game for the Pats. Not only are they coming off of a really disconcerting victory (you don't usually hear that phrase thrown around too often) over the lowly Bills, but the Dolphins are looking to rebound from their heartbreaking loss against the Jets last Sunday night. I'll give some credit to the Jets right here, because they have looked damn good the last 10 quarters. They kicked the Pats ass in the second half, won a very tough road game in Miami, then obliterated the Bills this week. Sanchez looks confident, the defense plays smash mouth, and Dustin Keller has evolved into a top 2 or 3 TE in just 4 weeks.<br />Lets get back to the Pats. They will be without starting running back Fred Taylor, opening the door for "the Law Firm"- BenJarvis Green-Ellis. BJGE looked very good last week against a weak Bills defensive front. A lot of Patriots fans like the way he runs, most probably because he is the EXACT opposite of Laurence "Dance till I get tackled behind the line" Maroney. BJGE runs hard, runs "downhill" and has good power between the tackles and inside the 20, but lets see how he does facing a strong run defense like Miami. As for what I think about the outcome: I think that Henne has looked out of control, and if the Pats can get a couple early scores they'll win something like 24-16. If they let the Dolphins control the clock with their two headed running attack, the Dolphins will eke out a victory like last years 22-21 game where the Pats let the Dolphins hang around JUST long enough for Henne to orchestrate a last minute drive.<br /><br />Before I go, let me say one thing that always bugs me. People always say to me "how come when you talk about the Patriots or Celtics you always say 'we?'" Like "we looked great last night," or " we better win tonight." The reason I say "we" is because when you put your heart into a team, or even into a sport, it becomes a part of you. There is a reason people spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on season tickets and TV packages every year. They want to see THEIR team. They want to enjoy the team they grew up loving, and they want their kids to love their team as well. Without fans like us, there wouldn't be any sports. There would be no money, no ESPN, and most importantly, no Tom Brady.<br />And with that, I have one question to ask: "IS IT MONDAY YET?"Eitan Katzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01928183581870747627noreply@blogger.com0