-I really liked working on the random thoughts post from a few weeks ago, so I'll be continuing that trend in posts without a title. If I need to post something in more detail, I'll properly title it.
-I've had trouble sleeping recently. Probably due to stress and my genes (curse you genetics). This isn't the first time it's happened, but it's proof that I really could use a vacation day. Alas, I need to survive this next week.
-My dad had knee surgery the other day. He's doing well, recovering and resting as far as I can tell. Also, my mom has took away his laptop to prevent him from working. Good call, mom!
-Put together a poker tournament the other night. It went surprising well. No real complaints (a couple of minor issues and things I could have done better, but oh well).
-Well, the MSU-Penn State game is finally upon us. Right now, I give the Spartans a 25% chance to win. Not great, but I've seen worse. I think we can win if our defense plays like it did against Purdue, if our receivers can catch the ball, if Ringer plays like the Heisman hopeful he was toward the beginning of the year, and if Hoyer doesn't play like he did against Ohio State this year or in the bowl game last year. 25% chance of all that happening, in my opinion.
-And now it's time to dedicate this part blog to the wonders of the Michigan Wolverines. Well, sort of. As you should be aware, I almost always want Michigan State's arch-rivals in Ann Arbor to lose. But this is a rare situation. Michigan has an opportunity to help their "little brother" make the big game. All they have to do is beat their arch-rival, Ohio State. Likely? Probably not. But it is a heated rivalry, so you can usually throw records out the window. And all but 1 coach won against Ohio State in their first game against them. And it is college football, which recently has had a tendency for bizarre upsets. I'm not holding my breath, but I'm not completely ruling it out.
-Most of my Michigan fan friends response when I told them I was rooting for them this week. "Sure, just use us and throw us away again. We only matter to you when you can do something to us." Well, when it comes to football... yeah. Deal with it ;).
-Catchphrase (much like other "party games" like Apples to Apples) is only fun when you have a certain group that is playing them. As in, people who aren't ashamed to go to the most random details in order to win. We used an electronic Catchphrase game, and there were arguments about throwing and avoiding the machine at the buzzer. We also had some great descriptions that sounded dirty out of context. And then we had this description of a very famous movie. See if you can guess what it is. "The movie with the midgets, and the dog, and the midgets, and the dog and the scarecrow guy."
-It's been a few weeks since the election, and let me tell you, I don't miss any of the political junk at all. Still glad it's over, so we can move on with our lives. By the way, to President-elect Obama. As much as I want a college football playoff, government should work on more pressing issues than college football. Hopefully you'll figure that out.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Monday, November 10, 2008
A far-fetched bowl scenario?
Look at this scenario, and see how far-fetched this is. In order to do this, we need to make the following assumptions, none of which are terribly ridiculous.
1) All BCS rules are followed to the letter. This means that only two teams in each conference are allowed in the BCS. This also means that 1 non-BCS conference gets an autobid if they are in the top 12, and that the Big East and ACC still get their autobids, even though they suck.
2) USC wins the Pac-10. They don't control their own destiny thanks to Oregon State, but based on Oregon State's schedule, I'd call this very likely.
3) We beat Penn State, with Ohio State winning the Big 10 just so I can make a point. I realize that the likelihood of us beating Penn State isn't very good, but let me have my moment a second.
4) The polls reflect MSU's win and Penn State's loss.
So, this would give us this selection for the BCS (Note: 10 overall bids for the BCS).
ACC winner- Doesn't matter who.
Big 12 winner- We'll give it Texas Tech for now, but it really doesn't matter.
Big 10 winner- Needs to be Ohio State as stated above.
Big East winner- Doesn't matter who.
Pac 10 winner- Needs to be USC, as stated above.
SEC winner- We'll give it to Alabama, but it won't matter if Florida wins.
This leaves us with 3 autobids left. We'll base the teams taken off of current BCS rankings.
#3 is Texas. They would take a bid. I fully expect a second Big 12 team, whoever it is, to make a BCS bowl.
#4 is Florida. They would take a bid. I fully expect Florida to make a BCS bowl.
#5 is Oklahoma, they cannot take a bid because 2 Big 12 teams are already in the BCS. Same with #10 Georgia (for SEC), #12 Missouri and #13 Oklahoma State.
This leaves these top remaining at large teams, based on rankings for right now. #10 Boise State, #14 Ball State and #15 Michigan State! Yes, that's right, we'd be third in line for a BCS bowl. But, if we beat Penn State, we'd certainly pass Ball State. And is it completely unreasonable that we couldn't move past Boise for the #10 spot, or something like that. Especially if it is convincing! Yes, I am suggesting that, if we beat Penn State, there is a good chance that we would make a BCS bowl game. Even without winning the Big 10. What does this mean?
1) All this is moot without us beating Penn State. We must win. We must root for us to win, and pray that it happens.
2) It'd be so much easier just to make the Rose Bowl, so let's also root for Ohio State to lose. It'd help quite a bit. Yes, this means that if OSU didn't lose to Illinois, we need to root for Michigan.
3) Root for USC and against Oregon State. We need USC to take that autobid. USC would certainly take an at large bid above us.
4) Root against Utah and Boise State. Yeah, I know you like to see the little guy to make it. But, it'd be so much easier if one of them is out of the picture (keep in mind, if Utah loses and Boise State wins out, they take an autobid that I described earlier).
5) Expect that we'll probably lose to Penn State anyway and accept the Outback bowl. It's nice anyways. New Years Day bowl, after all
1) All BCS rules are followed to the letter. This means that only two teams in each conference are allowed in the BCS. This also means that 1 non-BCS conference gets an autobid if they are in the top 12, and that the Big East and ACC still get their autobids, even though they suck.
2) USC wins the Pac-10. They don't control their own destiny thanks to Oregon State, but based on Oregon State's schedule, I'd call this very likely.
3) We beat Penn State, with Ohio State winning the Big 10 just so I can make a point. I realize that the likelihood of us beating Penn State isn't very good, but let me have my moment a second.
4) The polls reflect MSU's win and Penn State's loss.
So, this would give us this selection for the BCS (Note: 10 overall bids for the BCS).
ACC winner- Doesn't matter who.
Big 12 winner- We'll give it Texas Tech for now, but it really doesn't matter.
Big 10 winner- Needs to be Ohio State as stated above.
Big East winner- Doesn't matter who.
Pac 10 winner- Needs to be USC, as stated above.
SEC winner- We'll give it to Alabama, but it won't matter if Florida wins.
This leaves us with 3 autobids left. We'll base the teams taken off of current BCS rankings.
#3 is Texas. They would take a bid. I fully expect a second Big 12 team, whoever it is, to make a BCS bowl.
#4 is Florida. They would take a bid. I fully expect Florida to make a BCS bowl.
#5 is Oklahoma, they cannot take a bid because 2 Big 12 teams are already in the BCS. Same with #10 Georgia (for SEC), #12 Missouri and #13 Oklahoma State.
This leaves these top remaining at large teams, based on rankings for right now. #10 Boise State, #14 Ball State and #15 Michigan State! Yes, that's right, we'd be third in line for a BCS bowl. But, if we beat Penn State, we'd certainly pass Ball State. And is it completely unreasonable that we couldn't move past Boise for the #10 spot, or something like that. Especially if it is convincing! Yes, I am suggesting that, if we beat Penn State, there is a good chance that we would make a BCS bowl game. Even without winning the Big 10. What does this mean?
1) All this is moot without us beating Penn State. We must win. We must root for us to win, and pray that it happens.
2) It'd be so much easier just to make the Rose Bowl, so let's also root for Ohio State to lose. It'd help quite a bit. Yes, this means that if OSU didn't lose to Illinois, we need to root for Michigan.
3) Root for USC and against Oregon State. We need USC to take that autobid. USC would certainly take an at large bid above us.
4) Root against Utah and Boise State. Yeah, I know you like to see the little guy to make it. But, it'd be so much easier if one of them is out of the picture (keep in mind, if Utah loses and Boise State wins out, they take an autobid that I described earlier).
5) Expect that we'll probably lose to Penn State anyway and accept the Outback bowl. It's nice anyways. New Years Day bowl, after all
Friday, November 7, 2008
Random Thoughts I Think I Thought- 11/07
- Congratulations to President-Elect Barack Obama. I may not agree with some of his policies, but the fact is that he is the person in charge of our country. Because of that, I think it is important that, whether you like him or not, to accept this and more importantly, submit and pray to God for him that he makes good, Godly decisions. And with that, I go back to not caring much about politics. Thankfully, by the way.
- I can't be more excited for Michigan State football right now. Worst case scenario, we're remembering the Alamo in the Outback bowl. And we still have a shot to go to the Rose Bowl (and get the opportunity to be blown out by USC). How many people would have called that? I didn't. I would have been happy with barely getting into the Outback bowl, or simply back to the Champs Sports Bowl.
- Along with that, look at some of the stereotypes that MSU football has started to change. Since we got blown out by Ohio State, we've won a road game against a rival we haven't beaten in 7 years. We've had two 4th quarter comebacks. We've won a game we were severely outplayed in. It's a good feeling.
- Speaking of MSU sports, it's hard to complain when MSU's basketball team beats up on Northern Michigan. They won by 61 points! 61! Hard to find complaints in a game like that, but it is hard to tell what your team is like after just Northern Michigan. We shall see, we shall see.
- Lots of interesting conversations I've had over the last few weeks. I've debated the most important topics: most influential bands, best Bond movies, most influential video games, why I love sports, sense of humor. As I said, the most important topics. Some of them I should probably comment on in this blog, but we'll have to wait and see.
- Finally, just more evidence that God provides. After a rough day in my chemistry lab, I was overwhelmed. I had so much stuff to do and I wasn't really confident after some interesting mishaps in the lab. That was, until I saw a letter on my desk. I never get mail, and it didn't look like spam. So I open it up, and there is a little card signed by my church's youth group back home. Never expected it, but it was what I needed. Even in doubt, God cares and provides.
- I can't be more excited for Michigan State football right now. Worst case scenario, we're remembering the Alamo in the Outback bowl. And we still have a shot to go to the Rose Bowl (and get the opportunity to be blown out by USC). How many people would have called that? I didn't. I would have been happy with barely getting into the Outback bowl, or simply back to the Champs Sports Bowl.
- Along with that, look at some of the stereotypes that MSU football has started to change. Since we got blown out by Ohio State, we've won a road game against a rival we haven't beaten in 7 years. We've had two 4th quarter comebacks. We've won a game we were severely outplayed in. It's a good feeling.
- Speaking of MSU sports, it's hard to complain when MSU's basketball team beats up on Northern Michigan. They won by 61 points! 61! Hard to find complaints in a game like that, but it is hard to tell what your team is like after just Northern Michigan. We shall see, we shall see.
- Lots of interesting conversations I've had over the last few weeks. I've debated the most important topics: most influential bands, best Bond movies, most influential video games, why I love sports, sense of humor. As I said, the most important topics. Some of them I should probably comment on in this blog, but we'll have to wait and see.
- Finally, just more evidence that God provides. After a rough day in my chemistry lab, I was overwhelmed. I had so much stuff to do and I wasn't really confident after some interesting mishaps in the lab. That was, until I saw a letter on my desk. I never get mail, and it didn't look like spam. So I open it up, and there is a little card signed by my church's youth group back home. Never expected it, but it was what I needed. Even in doubt, God cares and provides.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Little Brother Strikes Back
When I was younger, my brother would always compete with me in everything. Especially sports. We would shoot hoops against each other, run sprints to see who would finish faster, farther, anything like that. At this point, I was bigger, stronger and more coordinated, so it wasn't always that difficult to beat him. I also didn't see beating him as much of a big deal. However, I can only imagine how important it was for him to beat me at anything. Well, it started with basketball. While I had a physical advantage, he worked on the other aspects of his game. He would work on a solid jumpshot. He would work on his mobility. Me, I took victory for granted. I didn't care much. I just enjoyed winning, and growing through puberty helped in that regard, until that fateful day that Ryan finally took his big brother on and beat him down. He's now bigger, faster, stronger, and cares more. I'd never play him in sports again, because he'd probably wipe the floor with me.
Why do I bring up these painful memories? Well, Michigan State University, the school I attend, has often been described as the "little brother" university to the University of Michigan. One friend of mine (known as the Wandering Wolverine) assumes that we have a severe inferiority complex with them. And you know what, the little brother comparison seems to work. Our year is always compared to UM. And let me tell you, it's been many years of disappointment. We can't help but look at the school just down the way and think, "Why can't our football team be like that? What do they have that we don't?" We've been put down to the point where we really, really, really want to win. On the flip side, my sources at UM tell me that they really don't care about us. They want to beat us, obviously, but after that, they could care less. Some even root for us in games. Shocking, I know.
Well, now is the time. Big brother looks weak, tired, beat up. They've struggled against powerhouse teams like Toledo. They're in a rebuilding stage, obviously. On the other side, little brother is looking like a program with upside. They look like a team that can compete for a January bowl game (note: Compete does not mean always get it, it just means that they'll be in the mix for it. Considering where they were my freshman year, it's a big step in the right direction). They have a coach that preaches toughness and unity. Could this be the time big brother falls?
If there were any year to be confident in a Michigan State victory, this would be the year. UM looks bad; before last week, Michigan State has looked pretty good. UM is still learning a new offense; Michigan State knows their systems and is ready. The drought Michigan State has had in the Big House still looms, but does it affect these new players coming in to this new system? That is the big question, but I don't think it will. In fact, I feel like the time is now. The time that the little brother finally strikes back and takes victory. They just have a better team this year.
I hope.
Why do I bring up these painful memories? Well, Michigan State University, the school I attend, has often been described as the "little brother" university to the University of Michigan. One friend of mine (known as the Wandering Wolverine) assumes that we have a severe inferiority complex with them. And you know what, the little brother comparison seems to work. Our year is always compared to UM. And let me tell you, it's been many years of disappointment. We can't help but look at the school just down the way and think, "Why can't our football team be like that? What do they have that we don't?" We've been put down to the point where we really, really, really want to win. On the flip side, my sources at UM tell me that they really don't care about us. They want to beat us, obviously, but after that, they could care less. Some even root for us in games. Shocking, I know.
Well, now is the time. Big brother looks weak, tired, beat up. They've struggled against powerhouse teams like Toledo. They're in a rebuilding stage, obviously. On the other side, little brother is looking like a program with upside. They look like a team that can compete for a January bowl game (note: Compete does not mean always get it, it just means that they'll be in the mix for it. Considering where they were my freshman year, it's a big step in the right direction). They have a coach that preaches toughness and unity. Could this be the time big brother falls?
If there were any year to be confident in a Michigan State victory, this would be the year. UM looks bad; before last week, Michigan State has looked pretty good. UM is still learning a new offense; Michigan State knows their systems and is ready. The drought Michigan State has had in the Big House still looms, but does it affect these new players coming in to this new system? That is the big question, but I don't think it will. In fact, I feel like the time is now. The time that the little brother finally strikes back and takes victory. They just have a better team this year.
I hope.
Friday, October 3, 2008
In the future, NCAA requires all amateur athletes to remain in an 8x8 box, in order to retain their amateur status
At the beginning of my freshman year, there was a movement to try and get our preseason best player, Drew Stanton, on the early Heisman ballot. I mean, we believed he was going to be the greatest QB we've ever had. As part of that, someone made a bunch of "Drew Stanton for Heisman" T-shirts. Later in that year, after our season had started to collapse, and Stanton was injured...again... another group of people started a facebook group, along with T-shirts for sale, entitled "Brett Swenson for Heisman". Both shirts were fun, we realized that the odds of these winning the Heisman extremely low (for our poor kicker, absolutely no chance). Let's fast forward to this year.
It's after week 4 of the college football season. We now have a running back, the great Javon Ringer, with a legitimate, although small, chance to win the Heisman. And of course, I joined a "Javon Ringer for Heisman" facebook group and have received at lease one message saying that, surprise surprise, "Javon Ringer for Heisman" shirts are now on sale. I never planned on buying one anyway, but it's nice to know that the tradition still loves on. Well, so I thought. A few days ago, I got a message from the head of the group with this message (note: The bolded part is what I'll be focusing on for the rest of this post).
"hey guys, I guess the alumni club leaders got this email...so just make sure you arent buying the T-shirts or selling anything along these lines
===================
Dear Alumni Club Leaders,
Michigan State University was contacted this morning by the Heisman award organization regarding a t-shirt sale to promote Javon Ringer as a Heisman Trophy candidate. One of our regional clubs had been asked to forward an email solicitation from the individual promoting the sale. The sale of this t-shirt immediately jeopardizes Javon Ringers status as an amateur athlete. The Heisman award organization made it known that Javon’s candidacy for the Trophy would also be in jeopardy if the sale continues.
Please do not participate in any promotional activity regarding the sale of a Javon Ringer t-shirt. I have contacted the individual identified on the email solicitation and asked him to immediately stop the promotion and sale of the merchandise.
Thank you."
As it was explained to me, the problem is with Ringer's name being used in any sort of marketing. Because using a name is violating this idea of naming rights, which amateur athletes cannot have, this is a violation. To put it plainly, this means that if a fan uses his name in anyway way that might make money for someone, it's illegal. How stupid! This is awful! (As a sidenote, to avoid any rule violations, I will now refer to Javon Ringer as Spartan RB #23. Don't want to violate rules by posting his name in a public blog). Here's some of my reasons why.
#1) Why should an athlete be punished for a fan's thing, especially when the athlete has no knowledge of it and is not making money on it? I mean, as far as I know, Spartan RB #23 had no idea of any T-shirt designs, and was certainly not making any money off of it. He probably is flattered that we want to have him win the Heisman, but it's probably not much more than a passing thought, to be honest. So the NCAA is planning to punish a guy for doing nothing on his own? Yeah, that sounds logical. He is not responsible for doing anything, this isn't sanctioned by the University, why should the NCAA even bother?
#2) It isn't like Spartan RB #23 is gaining anything on campus or in his future because people are using his name. Guess what? Everyone on MSU's campus knows who Spartan RB #23 is, and how good he is. Everyone in the Big Ten realizes that Spartan RB #23 has the potential to get 200 yards on them. And everyone in the NFL knows is frantically figuring out how good of a prospect Spartan RB #23 is. So what is a few hundred T-shirts tops going to change. Speaking of how he got so big...
#3) Wait, doesn't ESPN among other places make money by analyzing these athletes, promoting these athletes, etc.? This is not a critique on ESPN. I would not want to hear analysis concerning Spartan RB #23, or Missouri QB #10, or any number of other athletes. It'd be confusing. Heck, they probably couldn't show anything, wouldn't want people to actually see on TV how these players are doing. But doesn't it seem a little hypocritical to you? Why would the NCAA allow ESPN to make money off these players by showing the games, analyzing the athletes, showing highlights, etc., yet they won't let a kid make a few bucks off a T-shirt to which there is no way it will benefit the athlete in question? (Wait, I know the answer to that. I'm guessing that the reason why the NCAA allows ESPN to function starts with a $).
Maybe the T-shirts are against the letter of the rule (though, I doubt it violates the reason why the rule was put in place). But, in my opinion, if there are rules to prevent shirts like this, a fun thing for fans, than maybe the rule should be changed. At least, I'd say so. Somehow, I doubt that'll happen.
It's after week 4 of the college football season. We now have a running back, the great Javon Ringer, with a legitimate, although small, chance to win the Heisman. And of course, I joined a "Javon Ringer for Heisman" facebook group and have received at lease one message saying that, surprise surprise, "Javon Ringer for Heisman" shirts are now on sale. I never planned on buying one anyway, but it's nice to know that the tradition still loves on. Well, so I thought. A few days ago, I got a message from the head of the group with this message (note: The bolded part is what I'll be focusing on for the rest of this post).
"hey guys, I guess the alumni club leaders got this email...so just make sure you arent buying the T-shirts or selling anything along these lines
===================
Dear Alumni Club Leaders,
Michigan State University was contacted this morning by the Heisman award organization regarding a t-shirt sale to promote Javon Ringer as a Heisman Trophy candidate. One of our regional clubs had been asked to forward an email solicitation from the individual promoting the sale. The sale of this t-shirt immediately jeopardizes Javon Ringers status as an amateur athlete. The Heisman award organization made it known that Javon’s candidacy for the Trophy would also be in jeopardy if the sale continues.
Please do not participate in any promotional activity regarding the sale of a Javon Ringer t-shirt. I have contacted the individual identified on the email solicitation and asked him to immediately stop the promotion and sale of the merchandise.
Thank you."
As it was explained to me, the problem is with Ringer's name being used in any sort of marketing. Because using a name is violating this idea of naming rights, which amateur athletes cannot have, this is a violation. To put it plainly, this means that if a fan uses his name in anyway way that might make money for someone, it's illegal. How stupid! This is awful! (As a sidenote, to avoid any rule violations, I will now refer to Javon Ringer as Spartan RB #23. Don't want to violate rules by posting his name in a public blog). Here's some of my reasons why.
#1) Why should an athlete be punished for a fan's thing, especially when the athlete has no knowledge of it and is not making money on it? I mean, as far as I know, Spartan RB #23 had no idea of any T-shirt designs, and was certainly not making any money off of it. He probably is flattered that we want to have him win the Heisman, but it's probably not much more than a passing thought, to be honest. So the NCAA is planning to punish a guy for doing nothing on his own? Yeah, that sounds logical. He is not responsible for doing anything, this isn't sanctioned by the University, why should the NCAA even bother?
#2) It isn't like Spartan RB #23 is gaining anything on campus or in his future because people are using his name. Guess what? Everyone on MSU's campus knows who Spartan RB #23 is, and how good he is. Everyone in the Big Ten realizes that Spartan RB #23 has the potential to get 200 yards on them. And everyone in the NFL knows is frantically figuring out how good of a prospect Spartan RB #23 is. So what is a few hundred T-shirts tops going to change. Speaking of how he got so big...
#3) Wait, doesn't ESPN among other places make money by analyzing these athletes, promoting these athletes, etc.? This is not a critique on ESPN. I would not want to hear analysis concerning Spartan RB #23, or Missouri QB #10, or any number of other athletes. It'd be confusing. Heck, they probably couldn't show anything, wouldn't want people to actually see on TV how these players are doing. But doesn't it seem a little hypocritical to you? Why would the NCAA allow ESPN to make money off these players by showing the games, analyzing the athletes, showing highlights, etc., yet they won't let a kid make a few bucks off a T-shirt to which there is no way it will benefit the athlete in question? (Wait, I know the answer to that. I'm guessing that the reason why the NCAA allows ESPN to function starts with a $).
Maybe the T-shirts are against the letter of the rule (though, I doubt it violates the reason why the rule was put in place). But, in my opinion, if there are rules to prevent shirts like this, a fun thing for fans, than maybe the rule should be changed. At least, I'd say so. Somehow, I doubt that'll happen.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
The Rain Game
You know what I love? Going to football games. In the rain. Why? There's just something about it. The fact that it brings out the most hardcore fans. The idea of feeling cool water on your face as the game goes on. Watching the havoc that rain causes. And the feeling of accomplishment, knowing that you are a more awesome fan than anyone that left early. Just so awesome! 17-0 Michigan State over Florida Atlantic.
Friday, September 5, 2008
NFL Season Preview: What you (and me) have been waiting for
Let's go right into it, division by division.
AFC East:
1) New England Patriots: I looked at their schedule, and it's a cakewalk (it helps to be in a bad division). They also were really, really good last year. So it seems pretty logical that they'll run away with this division, and go deep in the playoffs. Final Record: 14-2
2) New York Jets: I'm not sold on them being that good with the Brett Favre circus in town. Maybe they will be, but I don't see them making a huge jump. Yeah, they'll probably win a game or two they shouldn't because of Favre, but they'll also lose a game or two they should win because of Favre. Also, I'm not sure their defense will be good enough. Was it good last year? I don't remember it being very good. Final Record: 7-9
3) Buffalo: I like Marshaun Lynch to make a jump into Top 10 Running Backdom (assuming he stays healthy). However, their coach is a coach that plays not to lose often times, I don't like their QB or their receivers, and I hate their defense. Final Record: 5-11
4) Miami: Uggh. Your biggest moves this year so far were trading away your best player (btw, I thought this was the right move), signing a pothead to a 1 year extension, and handing the keys to a QB that I might be able to out-throw distance wise (well, that last one is a huge exagerration, but I'm sure you get my point). The only good thing? It doesn't get much worse than last year. Final Record: 2-14
AFC North:
1) Pittsburgh: Mostly by default. They still have Roethlisberger, and their defense is solid. There's just something about them that I don't like. I don't know why. Final Record: 10-6
2) Baltimore: If they had any quarterback, any quarterback at all, I might pick them to win this division. I like their defense, I like McGahee, but I'm not sure Flacco or anyone else on their team is worth anything at QB this year. Final Record: 7-9
3) Cleveland: This has the look of a team that is just going to collapse this year. Overly high expectations? Potential 1 year wonder QB? Old running back? Semi-old defense? How does this sound to you? Final Record: 6-10
4) Cincinnati: All kidding aside, this team does not impress me. Yeah, they have offensive weapons, but their defense is bad. Ocho Cinco is a distraction, Chris Henry is a distraction, I'm not sold. Final Record: 6-10
AFC South
1) Indianapolis: I'm not that concerned about the Manning injury. I'm not that concerned about Freeney coming back from an injury. I'm not overly concerned about the Jeff Saturday injury. This team could win it all. They will be good. Final Record: 13-3
2) Jacksonville: I love Garrard this season. He will be great. The running game is still great, so is the defense. If they weren't in the same division as the Colts, they'd easily be the top team in their division. Final Record: 11-5
3) Houston: Yes, Houston. Shock of the year, they'll be that team that no one expects to come through, and they do. If Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson stay healthy, I'd watch out. Final Record: 10-6
4) Tennessee: Well, someone has to be the loser in this division. They'll be okay, but not great. Vince Young will make some small steps forward, but not enough. Their receivers still suck. Final Record: 7-9
AFC West
1) San Diego: Obvious choice here. LT wins the division single-handedly, basically. Still don't like Norv Turner. Final Record: 11-5
2) Denver: Jay Cutler could make some steps forward. That defense could be better than it was last year. I just don't see it. Final Record: 7-9
3) Oakland: An interesting team that could spoil a couple of teams seasons. However, I wasn't a big fan of JaMarcus Russell in college, and I still am not a fan. I'm not sure they have any weapons. Their defense is going to have to carry them. Final Record: 5-11
4) Kansas City: They just look bad. If Larry Johnson doesn't carry the load (and all signs point toward him getting injured again, in my opinion), then this season will be in huge trouble. Final Record: 3-13
NFC East
NOTE: The opinions in this section were finished BEFORE last night's game. The Giants/Redskins showdown had no effect on the rankings.
1) Dallas: This team is too talented NOT to win this division. Jessica Simpson's boyfriend (I think she and Tony Romo are still going out, but I don't follow up on this celebrity garbage) will by default get 4000 yards, and their offense wins the division, and probably the NFC. But... all bets are off when the playoffs hit. Final Record: 13-3
2) Philadelphia: I believe that Donovan McNabb will stay healthy all season. If he does, he will only add to an already very good team. I'm sold (also, go Brian Westbrook. Lead me to my dorm Fantasy Football championship!). Final Record: 10-6
3) New York Giants: I'm not sold. They lost a few key players on defense. Will Eli Manning be the Manning of the playoffs, or the Manning of the last few regular season games? Final Record: 7-9
4) Washington: Their offense looks bad (even last night). Their defense doesn't look good enough to carry them. They're in a tough division. This looks ugly. Final Record: 5-11
NFC South
1) Carolina: They were really, really injured last year. They're bound to be healthier. Other than that, this is more of a hunch than anything else. Final Record: 10-6
2) Tampa Bay: Something about them just makes me wonder if they'll be that good. Could Earnest Graham be a 1-year wonder? Is there defense going to hold up? I just don't know. Luckily, they're in the NFC. Final Record: 9-7
3) New Orleans: I just don't think their offense can carry them this year. They started really slow last year, keep in mind. Reggie Bush seems to be more of a bust than the boom they were hoping for. Final Record: 7-9
4) Atlanta: You know, the team that finished last in the NFC South has finished in first the next year every year. I don't believe the pattern continues, this team just looks bad. It's not a good sign when you are starting a rookie quarterback, one whom I didn't like coming out of college, and I am forced to agree, thinking he is in fact the best QB on the team. Final Record: 2-14
NFC West
1) Seattle: Guess what? This team is good. They have been for a while. They'll still be good. And they'll be playing for their coach, who is in his last season. Final Record: 11-5
2) Arizona: I don't think they'll be that good. I think that Kurt Warner will be good enough so that Arizona might be better than the rest. But keep in mind, they still are Arizona. Final Record: 7-9
3) St. Louis: Well, they'll be healthier. Still won't mean that they'll be better, in this case. Final Record: 6-10
4) San Francisco: I didn't see the hype last year. I still don't see the small amount of hype they may have this year. Mike Martz is becoming more mad than genius. Final Record: 5-11
And now, the moment you've been waiting for. There is one division that features more bad quarterbacks than any other. 1 division that features potentially 4 bad teams (although I've talked myself into liking one). 1 division that features my favorite team. Here we go!
NFC North
1) Green Bay: They weren't my pick to win the division a week ago. And yes, I realize Aaron Rodgers has proven nothing, and has the weight of an entire city full of crazed football fans on his shoulders. But look at the rest of this team. Offensive line: good. Running back: probably good. Receivers: Very good. Defense: Excellent, and improving. If the Bears could make the Super Bowl 2 years ago with Rex Grossman as their quarterback, then Green Bay should at least win this division. Final Record: 11-5
2) Minnesota: Speaking of that Bears team a few years ago, this Minnesota team actually reminds me a lot of them. Good defense, good running back, good offensive line, awful QB. However, I am less sold on many things on this team. 1) Can that defense be great, like 2006 Chicago was? 2) Can Adrian Peterson stay healthy all season (he hasn't since his freshman year at Oklahoma)? 3) Can Tavaris Jackson even live up to Rex Grossman, 2006? I just am not sure. Final Record: 8-8
3) Chicago: So many things that could go wrong with my Bears this year. Their defense is starting to look old, and I think our really bad offense from last year may have gotten worse. I don't know how that happened, but it saddens me. Well, I am always the optimist, and will pick them to win for a while anyways, but I just don't like how this season could play out. Final Record: 6-10
4) Detroit: Because the average offense was a huge problem, especially compared to their awful defense, they fire their offensive coordinator. Yeah, that's a good move. But in more serious thoughts, their defense is still bad, Jon Kitna's a year older (and still Jon Kitna), they have no one good running the ball. This team looks bad.... again. But look at it this way, William Clay Ford is helping the mentally handicapped, by keeping his GM. Final Record: 5-11
AFC East:
1) New England Patriots: I looked at their schedule, and it's a cakewalk (it helps to be in a bad division). They also were really, really good last year. So it seems pretty logical that they'll run away with this division, and go deep in the playoffs. Final Record: 14-2
2) New York Jets: I'm not sold on them being that good with the Brett Favre circus in town. Maybe they will be, but I don't see them making a huge jump. Yeah, they'll probably win a game or two they shouldn't because of Favre, but they'll also lose a game or two they should win because of Favre. Also, I'm not sure their defense will be good enough. Was it good last year? I don't remember it being very good. Final Record: 7-9
3) Buffalo: I like Marshaun Lynch to make a jump into Top 10 Running Backdom (assuming he stays healthy). However, their coach is a coach that plays not to lose often times, I don't like their QB or their receivers, and I hate their defense. Final Record: 5-11
4) Miami: Uggh. Your biggest moves this year so far were trading away your best player (btw, I thought this was the right move), signing a pothead to a 1 year extension, and handing the keys to a QB that I might be able to out-throw distance wise (well, that last one is a huge exagerration, but I'm sure you get my point). The only good thing? It doesn't get much worse than last year. Final Record: 2-14
AFC North:
1) Pittsburgh: Mostly by default. They still have Roethlisberger, and their defense is solid. There's just something about them that I don't like. I don't know why. Final Record: 10-6
2) Baltimore: If they had any quarterback, any quarterback at all, I might pick them to win this division. I like their defense, I like McGahee, but I'm not sure Flacco or anyone else on their team is worth anything at QB this year. Final Record: 7-9
3) Cleveland: This has the look of a team that is just going to collapse this year. Overly high expectations? Potential 1 year wonder QB? Old running back? Semi-old defense? How does this sound to you? Final Record: 6-10
4) Cincinnati: All kidding aside, this team does not impress me. Yeah, they have offensive weapons, but their defense is bad. Ocho Cinco is a distraction, Chris Henry is a distraction, I'm not sold. Final Record: 6-10
AFC South
1) Indianapolis: I'm not that concerned about the Manning injury. I'm not that concerned about Freeney coming back from an injury. I'm not overly concerned about the Jeff Saturday injury. This team could win it all. They will be good. Final Record: 13-3
2) Jacksonville: I love Garrard this season. He will be great. The running game is still great, so is the defense. If they weren't in the same division as the Colts, they'd easily be the top team in their division. Final Record: 11-5
3) Houston: Yes, Houston. Shock of the year, they'll be that team that no one expects to come through, and they do. If Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson stay healthy, I'd watch out. Final Record: 10-6
4) Tennessee: Well, someone has to be the loser in this division. They'll be okay, but not great. Vince Young will make some small steps forward, but not enough. Their receivers still suck. Final Record: 7-9
AFC West
1) San Diego: Obvious choice here. LT wins the division single-handedly, basically. Still don't like Norv Turner. Final Record: 11-5
2) Denver: Jay Cutler could make some steps forward. That defense could be better than it was last year. I just don't see it. Final Record: 7-9
3) Oakland: An interesting team that could spoil a couple of teams seasons. However, I wasn't a big fan of JaMarcus Russell in college, and I still am not a fan. I'm not sure they have any weapons. Their defense is going to have to carry them. Final Record: 5-11
4) Kansas City: They just look bad. If Larry Johnson doesn't carry the load (and all signs point toward him getting injured again, in my opinion), then this season will be in huge trouble. Final Record: 3-13
NFC East
NOTE: The opinions in this section were finished BEFORE last night's game. The Giants/Redskins showdown had no effect on the rankings.
1) Dallas: This team is too talented NOT to win this division. Jessica Simpson's boyfriend (I think she and Tony Romo are still going out, but I don't follow up on this celebrity garbage) will by default get 4000 yards, and their offense wins the division, and probably the NFC. But... all bets are off when the playoffs hit. Final Record: 13-3
2) Philadelphia: I believe that Donovan McNabb will stay healthy all season. If he does, he will only add to an already very good team. I'm sold (also, go Brian Westbrook. Lead me to my dorm Fantasy Football championship!). Final Record: 10-6
3) New York Giants: I'm not sold. They lost a few key players on defense. Will Eli Manning be the Manning of the playoffs, or the Manning of the last few regular season games? Final Record: 7-9
4) Washington: Their offense looks bad (even last night). Their defense doesn't look good enough to carry them. They're in a tough division. This looks ugly. Final Record: 5-11
NFC South
1) Carolina: They were really, really injured last year. They're bound to be healthier. Other than that, this is more of a hunch than anything else. Final Record: 10-6
2) Tampa Bay: Something about them just makes me wonder if they'll be that good. Could Earnest Graham be a 1-year wonder? Is there defense going to hold up? I just don't know. Luckily, they're in the NFC. Final Record: 9-7
3) New Orleans: I just don't think their offense can carry them this year. They started really slow last year, keep in mind. Reggie Bush seems to be more of a bust than the boom they were hoping for. Final Record: 7-9
4) Atlanta: You know, the team that finished last in the NFC South has finished in first the next year every year. I don't believe the pattern continues, this team just looks bad. It's not a good sign when you are starting a rookie quarterback, one whom I didn't like coming out of college, and I am forced to agree, thinking he is in fact the best QB on the team. Final Record: 2-14
NFC West
1) Seattle: Guess what? This team is good. They have been for a while. They'll still be good. And they'll be playing for their coach, who is in his last season. Final Record: 11-5
2) Arizona: I don't think they'll be that good. I think that Kurt Warner will be good enough so that Arizona might be better than the rest. But keep in mind, they still are Arizona. Final Record: 7-9
3) St. Louis: Well, they'll be healthier. Still won't mean that they'll be better, in this case. Final Record: 6-10
4) San Francisco: I didn't see the hype last year. I still don't see the small amount of hype they may have this year. Mike Martz is becoming more mad than genius. Final Record: 5-11
And now, the moment you've been waiting for. There is one division that features more bad quarterbacks than any other. 1 division that features potentially 4 bad teams (although I've talked myself into liking one). 1 division that features my favorite team. Here we go!
NFC North
1) Green Bay: They weren't my pick to win the division a week ago. And yes, I realize Aaron Rodgers has proven nothing, and has the weight of an entire city full of crazed football fans on his shoulders. But look at the rest of this team. Offensive line: good. Running back: probably good. Receivers: Very good. Defense: Excellent, and improving. If the Bears could make the Super Bowl 2 years ago with Rex Grossman as their quarterback, then Green Bay should at least win this division. Final Record: 11-5
2) Minnesota: Speaking of that Bears team a few years ago, this Minnesota team actually reminds me a lot of them. Good defense, good running back, good offensive line, awful QB. However, I am less sold on many things on this team. 1) Can that defense be great, like 2006 Chicago was? 2) Can Adrian Peterson stay healthy all season (he hasn't since his freshman year at Oklahoma)? 3) Can Tavaris Jackson even live up to Rex Grossman, 2006? I just am not sure. Final Record: 8-8
3) Chicago: So many things that could go wrong with my Bears this year. Their defense is starting to look old, and I think our really bad offense from last year may have gotten worse. I don't know how that happened, but it saddens me. Well, I am always the optimist, and will pick them to win for a while anyways, but I just don't like how this season could play out. Final Record: 6-10
4) Detroit: Because the average offense was a huge problem, especially compared to their awful defense, they fire their offensive coordinator. Yeah, that's a good move. But in more serious thoughts, their defense is still bad, Jon Kitna's a year older (and still Jon Kitna), they have no one good running the ball. This team looks bad.... again. But look at it this way, William Clay Ford is helping the mentally handicapped, by keeping his GM. Final Record: 5-11
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