Buckeyes Land Meyer

The next best thing.  Urban Meyer.  You know its extremely rare for very distinguished college coaches to jump ship and go from one major FBS program to another.  However, this is a huge hire for OSU and that football program.  Let me start off with some of the speculation I had been hearing after talking with a few individuals the past couple weeks surrounding the topic of Meyer.  It was clear, that Tim Tebow and the Florida Gators were Meyer's pride and joy and those two National Championships where the best years of his coaching legacy.  Suddenly Meyer announces his thought to retire because of health issues and wanting to spend more time with his family.  Here we are now, a year later and we are seeing one of the best coaches in CFB return to one of the most demanding college football programs in the country.  Ironic, some individuals actually believe Meyer wanted to get out of Florida because some of his best players were departing The Swamp.  

Regardless, here we are at the tail end of the 2011 CFB season and Coach Meyer has decided to get back into the saddle as the new head coach of the scarlet and gray.  Returning to his home state of Ohio and where he first started coaching back in the 80's is seemingly a dream job for any big time coach.  It is going to be interesting to take a note to all of the recruit's who decide to maybe alter their decisions solely because of this coaching change.  Meyer is very capable of bringing in the best of the best.  10 of the 20 Michigan Wolverine recruits hail from the state of Ohio.  Watch out, Michigan.  

So how long until he wins?  The answer is right away.  This Buckeye team has gone through a lot in the last eight months with the scandals and losing some of their best players.  However, with a year under their belt without former QB T. Pryor, look for B. Miller to make a splash in 2012.  Michigan State will return next season as a very hard team to beat in the Big 10.  Michigan is continuing to improve and there are other teams like Iowa and Nebraska who are always tough competition in the conference.   I am not saying Meyer will win the BCS next year, no.  I think the Buckeyes have a good chance to win the conference and get a BCS bowl game appearance.  

Meyer is going to bring in some of the best coaches in America to help lead the Buckeyes back to the promise land and if anyone is capable of doing it, its this man.  It will be an interesting story to follow over the next few months and looking at the staff he puts together and what recruits decide to sign on the line to come play in the Horseshoe.  

NFL Power Rankings Week 13 - Top 10

NFL Power Rankings Week 13 

1. Packers - No change here, the Packers continue to surge and that defense is improving week by week.  Can you say undefeated season?

2. Steelers - The lers play down to their opponent.  Rough week in KC, lets hope the status of Troy gradually gets better throughout the week.  The defense goes as he goes.  

3. Saints - Dont sleep on the Saints.  This team is the only team in the NFC who can knock off the Pack from going undefeated.  Drew Brees is having a career year, don't forget about that guy down in on Bourbon Street. 

4. Ravens - Yeah, I know some of you may not like their placement right now but guess what; all the teams above have way better offensive fire power and they say defense wins championships, but if the Ravens are going to go the distance, they need to find a way to start putting up more points.  

5. Patriots - Offense, offense, offense.  Pretty much defines the Pats and the onslaught they had against the Birds.  Big problem, defense.  You can't give up 400 yards passing, especially when their names not Drew or Aaron.

6. 49ers - Tough loss last week to the Ravens and their offensive line just got eaten up by the purple and black.  This has been a great year for the 49ers and they are about to clinch their first division title since '02.  Hats off to them, but the real favorites in the NFC are above.  

7. Houston - Good win last week for Houston.  As I said in my prediction for the South, they will win and actually if the playoffs started today, Texans would have home field through the playoffs.  Ironic.

8. Falcons - Matt Ryan is finally back to old form.  Solid performances in the last few weeks have jolted the Falcons back up to the top 10 in the PR.  

9. Cowboys - Jerry Jones is finally walking around with a smile on his face.  Tony Romo and Co. have been impressive the last few weeks.  Robinson continues to surge as the new go to guy in Texas, their running game has no signs of slowing down either.  

10.  Oakland - Picked the Chargers to come back and win the division in Week 17, does not look like that is going to happen.  Oakland controls their own destiny and looks like they are going to win the division.  Bad pick by me.  

AFC Playoff Projections

It's been an exciting season of NFL football and we're coming down to the last five weeks of the regular season.  As we look ahead to the remaining games we can start to get a gage of the 2011 AFC Playoff Picture.

Heres my projections for the AFC.


AFC North - Baltimore Ravens.  Few questionable losses in my book this season for the Ravens and Flacco's performance has been generally mediocre this season.  The defense is in my opinion the best in the league, after watching them against the 49ers on Thanksgiving Day they will definitely move up in my PR for next week.  The thing that obviously stands out for the Ravens is their season sweep of the Pittsburgh Steelers.  The Ravens will win the AFC North.

AFC East - New England Patriots.  I look for the Patriots to seemingly run the table the rest of the regular season.  Lets face it, their Week 3 collapse in the game vs. Buffalo was a joke.  Brady threw more picks in that game than he ever has in his career.  They were in close games with the Steelers and Giants, just could not pull it out.  They finish the year with three road games vs. Philadelphia, Washington and Denver.  They face Indianapolis, Miami and Buffalo at home.  Buffalo is falling off the map and look for Brady to seek revenge against the Bills.  They win the AFC East and clinch home field.

AFC  South - Houston is 7-3 and 3-0 in the division.  I know they lost Matt Shaub but the AFC South is all but locked up for the Texans.  They can ride Arian Foster to the playoffs but don't expect much after that.  The rest of the AFC South outside of Houston has a combined 8-22 record.  Jacksonville, Tennessee and winless Indy remain.  Tennessee is 5-5 and has the best shot but even so, don't look for the south to have any the division winner make it out of the first round of the playoffs.  Houston wins AFC South.

AFC West - What a mess.  This is hard to call.  A wide open division that could easily have a first place swing in two weeks.  If McFadden comes back and Bush continues to produce I like Oakland to finish 9-6.  Denver has been impressive as of late with their outstanding defensive effort.  This just is not the year for the Broncos and with all the media surrounding Tim Tebow.  They have a tough remaining schedule with games against New England, Chicago and San Diego who they will face this week.  San Diego has been disappointing and thats all there is to it.  The Chargers have favorable games the next three weeks against Denver, Jacksonville and Buffalo before heading to Baltimore, Detroit and Oakland.  I would say its safe to say the AFC West winner will be determined Week 17 against the Raiders. I know the Chargers are 4-6 but they should be 5-5.  It's tough, but I think that San Diego will turn it around and end up edging Oakland at the end of the year.  San Diego wins Week 17 and clinches AFC West.


Wild Card - Pittsburgh Steelers.  Cincinnati Bengals.

Steelers - Despite their loses to the Ravens.  Hats off to them for their performance to this point with the amount of injuries they have had to deal with. So they lost twice to the Ravens, so what. Tomlin has his troops geared up and motivated every week to come out and play.  They should not of lost the second game to the Ravens but their defensive collapse is going to make it hard for the Steelers to have a chance at the Division Title.  This is not a bias pick with sending the Steelers to the Superbowl.  Come play off time the Steelers are extremely hard to beat.  You have a relentless QB, solid defense and a crew of young playmakers in Wallace, Mendenhall, Brown, Sanders and Cotchery.

Bengals - What a start for rookie QB Andy Dalton.  This is what the Bengals needed out of Carson Palmer for years but they never got the production and their defense was quite stagnant.  I think the Bengals are going to fight off the Jets for the final Wild Card spot.  The Jets have three games coming up they should win which would put them at 8-5 and the Bengals still have to face the Steelers and Ravens again.  This is going to be a tight race coming to the end.  I am giving the edge to the Bengals.  However, don't expect them to make it far because they are going to end up playing Tom Brady at Gillette first round and we all know how the Patriots play at home in the playoffs.  Good comeback season though.


AFC Championship Game - Steelers vs. Baltimore.  AFC Champion - Pittsburgh Steelers.

No way Pittsburgh loses to Baltimore three times in one year.  The Steelers are likely going to have to go through New England to get to see the Ravens in the AFC Championship game but I don't see that being too much of a struggle.  It will be a good game but I think that the Steelers run game will wear down that Pats defense who is yet to shine this season.  Thats the downfall of the Patriots which is why, unless it improves, won't be making it to Indianapolis this February.

Steelers will beat Baltimore in this game for one reason; the QB Matchup.  Flacco does not even compare to Ben and seemingly never will. The Steelers have way to many playmakers on offense and by Week 18 the veteran Ravens defense won't be able to hang with the young guns of Pittsburgh.

Look for the NFC Playoff Projections this coming week.

PJG

NFL Picks Week 12

Compiled a 12-2 record after last weeks picks.  Looking to do more of the same this week.

Lets get it rollin.

Green Bay vs. Detroit - The Motor City is in for a Thanksgiving Day showdown.  The Packers are showing no signs of slowing down and are looking to improve to 11-0 on their quest for the undefeated season.  The defense is slowly improving and having the best QB in the game can't hurt.  I like the Pack in this game, closer than some think though.  Look for Calvin Johnson to sneak loose into that Packers secondary.  Packers 32-21

Miami vs. Dallas - Two hot teams right now in their own regard. Jason Witten had a big game last week.  Murray continues to improve.  Bush is finally starting to look like an NFL running back.  Dallas disappointed me last week merely sneaking by the Redskins but, I'll stick with them again at home on Thanksgiving.  Dallas 24-17

Cleveland vs. Cincinnati - Look for Andy Dalton and the Bengals to keep their Wild Card hopes alive and stay ahead of the Jets in the AFC.  They will get back on track on track against the Browns.  I don't expect this game to be high scoring though. Bengals 21-10

Minnesota vs. Atlanta - Matt Ryan is finally starting to put up big numbers like he did last season.  Tony Gonzalez does not look a day over 25 and Minnesota.....well with AP hurt, I guess all they have to look forward too is the snow.  Falcons 30-10

Arizona vs. St. Louis - Sorry, I got nothing on this one.  St. Louis 17-10

Carolina vs. Indianapolis - Poor Indianapolis.  At least they are going to get Andrew Luck come draft day.  Carolina's record really does not show the potential this team has.  One of the biggest disappointments this season.  Cam will put on an onslaught against the winless Colts.  Panthers 31-7

Chicago vs. Oakland - With the injury to Jay Cutler, the Bears playoff and wildcard hopes are not looking so good now.  I had them high in my PR last week but, like Houston, they are going to struggle without their QB.  Low scoring game. Oakland 21-13

Washington vs. Seattle - Disappointing loss last week for the strugglin Redskins.  Seattle's Marshawn Lynch will be the catalyst for the Hawks to pull this one out.  Seattle 21-17

Denver vs. San Diego - Do I dare take the streaking Broncos and Tim Tebow over the struggling San Diego Chargers?  I have got a feeling Norv Turner's welcome might soon be running out if he does not start winning more football games. Chargers will slow down the Broncos surge this week.  San Diego 24-13

New England vs. Philadelphia - New England looked like they were getting back to good form this past week.  However, Wes Welker struggled as the Chiefs had the perfect game plan locking up the league leader in receiving yards.  Does that really matter though when you have the leagues best tight end outside of Saints Jimmy Graham?   Pats 30-17

Pittsburgh vs. Kansas City - Steelers are fresh off their bye week on SNF against the Chiefs.  It will be interesting to see how Ben handles his injured thumb.  Regardless, Steelers will win this game.  Lers' 23-10

New York Giants vs. New Orleans Saints - Eli Manning disappointed me last week in a game that I thought the G-Men would make a big statement in the NFC and with a win that would of had bigger implications on this weeks' match up with the Saints.  I think this game will be a high scoring, back and forth game.  Drew Brees will air it out early and often and look for Eli to do the same.  Gotta give this week's edge to the Saints, they have given me no reason to suspect otherwise, IN OVERTIME.  Saints 30-27

Happy Thanksgiving!

A night to remember - #87

It might of been the most riveting regular season hockey game I have ever witnessed in my life.  You know, in my Monday write up on Sid I said I thought this is what he would expect from himself.  He only knows how to play the game one way and last nights game was a statement to the rest of the National Hockey League.


After ten months of injury, first shot of the game off the backhand of Sidney Crosby jumps up over Nilsson's left shoulder and hits the the top of the net.  The perfect story, right?  The greatest hockey player in the world did an amazing thing last night.  How about his smooth backhand pass over to teammate Brookes Orpick for a one time rip top shelf. 


Scoring again later in the game just added the icing on the cake.  There's so many different ways in which you can script this story and write about the hype surrounding the Pittsburgh Penguins.  Every media outlet, sports writer and newscast is featuring this focal point of the Penguins.  Can they stay healthy?  Will they win the cup?  Will Sid continue to climb the scoring ladder?  Are they as good or better than the team that went to back-to-back cups just a few seasons ago?


So whats my take.  The Penguins are #1 in my Power Rankings for a reason.  The Eastern Conference and Atlantic Division will remain tough with the resurgence of the New York Rangers and ever present Philadelphia Flyers.  They need to stay healthy all year long.  The chemistry between new line mates needs to grow and that deadly powerplay needs time to work their magic.  Will Sid climb the scoring latter? That doubt from some will soon be nullified.  Who can stop a line in the NHL of James Neal, Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Brooks Orpick and Kris Letang.   Probably no one.  


You have your critics, of course.  So what he scored four points against a team with 13 total points all year and two wins in the last fourteen games.  Generally speaking, the Islanders are the worst team in the NHL.  So what will happen when he plays Detroit, San Jose, Philadelphia?


It does not matter.  The magnitude and the level of play that Sidney Crosby brings to the ice is greater than anyone who laces up a pair of hockey skates.  These are the types of stories you reminice about when your older as some of the greatest things you have witnessed in your life when it comes to sports.  Sure - I'm a diehard Pens fan and supported them through their tough years even before Mario bailed them out.  But Penguins fan or not, last night you had to be moved by the performance you saw on the ice. 


The rest of the team just watched their captain return at a pivitol moment early in the season.  Down a few games from last week, they rise up to the occasion and rout the Islanders 5-0.  If this is a sign of things to come for Sid and the rest of the Pens.  Beware. 


I will always remember the day Sidney scored the winning goal in the shootout of the Winter Classic.  I will always remember the goal #87 scored to win the Olympic Gold for Canada. I will always remember when Sid rushed his hand shake with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman to lift Lord Stanely as the youngest captain ever to win the cup.  


I'll always remember the return of the brightest young star in professional sports coming back and just adding another piece of his greatness to his legacy.  


This is great for Sidney and the Penguins.  Great for the NHL and amazing for Penguins Nation. 
Let the ride to Lord Stanley begin (again)

NHL Power Rankings - Top 15 Only

Well, now that the NHL has got itself going and I have been able to read enough to actually give some rankings, this week will start my NHL Power Rankings.  I am not going to rank the bottom portion of the league right now, just my top fifteen will be featured each week.   I mean, I do need something to write about after Christmas when the NFL season winds down.  I will give my reasons for the top 5 and why I think each of them are where they are.

Enjoy, puck heads.

NHL Power Rankings - Week of November 21

1. Pittsburgh Penguins - They dropped a few games this past week in Florida but with the return of Sidney, hot streaking James Neal, Coach Dan behind the bench, who can stop the Pens?  Oh yeah, the Pens also have the best penalty killing unit in the NHL.  

2. Boston Bruins - Deserving of the number two ranking this week.  Running off eight straight wins and the B's are the defending Cup Champs.  They get my #2 spot this week.  

3.  Chicago Blackhawks - Love the Hawks. Disappointed that they lost 9-2 to Edmonton, they routed the Canucks last week 5-1 and have a big Western Conference rivalry game with the Sharks this week. 

4. San Jose Sharks - Fifth in goals per game and third rated power play in the league.  Big matchup with the Blackhawks this week.  Look for Patrick Marleau to continue to produce in the early stages of this season.  

5.  Philadelphia Flyers - Flyers hold the number one spot in goals per game.  They continue to struggle north of the border but look for the Flyers to keep pace with the Penguins atop the Eastern Conference.  

6. New York Rangers

7. Minnesota Wild

8. Detroit Red Wings

9. Phoenix Coyotes 

10. St. Louis Blues 

11. Buffalo Sabres 

12. Florida Panthers 

13.  Vancouver Canucks 

14. Dallas Stars 

15. New Jersey Devils 

The return of #87

  

For starters, let's all realize what the PIttsburgh Penguins and Head Coach Dan Bylsma have accomplished throughout 87's absence.  After your done, read on.  Actually, I lied - since I don't really think many people reading this understand what the Pens have done with out their captain, let me recap.   Lets start with the man behind the bench, Coach Bylsma.  Personally, this is not bias whatsoever, but how is he not considered the hands down best coach in the NHL.  Obviously, he deservingly won the 2011 Jack Adams award for Coach of the Year with half his squad beaten and battered.   Individuals should not of even had to vote for that award last year, they should of just handed it to Dan. The 'Guins ran up the standings and finished second in the Atlantic Division with 106 points.  The closed out the season with 4-straight wins and were looking like they could run all the way to the finals.  They were stopped short of this goal by a disappointing game 7 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning.  

The summer went on and the team got healthy and came back to camp fresh, wondering when Captain Sid would come back.  His delay of returning continued....but all you would read about is the resurgent Penguins continue to pile up points.  Now tied for first place atop the Atlantic with the Flyers, they continue to fly around the ice.  New addition James Neal is finally showing his talents that he portrayed in Dallas.  GM Ray Shero looks like a genius, yet again. But, fear no more Pittsburgh, here comes #87.  

Sidney is back and probably healthier than ever.  Many fans, writers and some players have criticized the face of the NHL for taking such a long absence.  However, if you look at it now - would it of really been worth it to rush Sid back in late March to help the already surging Penguins go over the 100 point mark for the season?  What if Sidney would of taken a blow to the head one more time, he could of risked his entire career.  Now, it seems like only yesterday Sid hit the ice in the Winter Classic towards the end of the first period after a big hit from Mike Green.  Here we are, ten months later.  The greatest hockey player in the world will finally lace his skates up in front of the electric atmosphere of the Consol Energy Center.  This has got to be the hottest ticket in sports right now, and why would it not be?  Sid has torched the New Yorks Islanders throughout his career.  

Before his injury last season, #87 was on pace to shatter a handful of records and set career highs.  Sid had 32 goals and 34 assists to give him a total of 66 points through 42 games.  Unbelievable? I'd say so.    I receive Pens Alerts through my phone after every game as most Pens fans do, and I would be lying if I said I was not baffled by the numbers that Sidney was putting up to that point. 

So what should we expect from Sidney.  Well, he is in top shape as always.  He has been practicing, taking hits and flying around the ice.  Personally, I don't see why we wont see what we are used to seeing from him.  He has waited and waited solely because he does not know how to play any other way then how he had played before his injury.  The Penguins, team doctors and Coach Bylsma went through this process perfectly.  It may take a few games for Sid to get used to the game rhythm and top speed, but I would not bet against the greatest player in the world.

Welcome back Sidney, we've been waiting for you.  

NFL Picks Week 11

Pick em!

Tampa Bay at Green Bay - No chance Tampa keeps up, Aaron will throw all over Tampa and force them for the fourth week in a row to resort to passing.  Tampa has ran the ball a total of 22 times in the second half in the last two games.  Green Bay 35-14

Carolina at Detroit - Detroit will win as long as they are not looking forward to their Turkey Bowl game with the soon to be undefeated Packers.   Lions 28-17

Jacksonville vs. Cleveland - I like what I saw out of MJD last week, and with Cleveland's running game in such despair, Colt will have to air it up early and often.  Jags by a field goal.  17-14

Oakland vs. Minnesota - Carson Palmer looks to be settling in and thats a bad sign for the Vikes.  Oakland 23-13

Buffalo vs. Miami - Here is my upset of the week.  Buffalo has not looked that great and Miami is playing with some passion the last few games, they have yet to fire the least liked Coach in the league according to Yahoo Sports.  Sparano and the Fins by a touchdown.  20-13

Dallas vs. Washington - Still room for Romo to improve and there is not much going on worth noting down in the nations capital as far as football is concerned.  Boys 24-7

Cincinnatti vs. Baltimore - Andy Dalton has been a great addition to this Bengal offense this season, but it wont be enough against that Raven's defense who looks to keep pace with the Steelers in the AFC North.  Ravens 27-14

Arizona vs. San Francisco - Well the 49ers are #2 in my Power Rankings this week so obviously I am not picking against them.  Despite the questionable Frank Gore, I look for that defense to hold the Cardinals in check and A. Smith to shake lose.  San Fran 24-10

Seattle vs. St. Louis - St. Louis has the worst defense in the NFL and Marshawn Lynch is going to have a field day running the ball.  Like Coach Carrol to get a W in this one.  Hawks 21-10

Tennessee vs. Atlanta - Atlanta is coming off a disappointing loss last week against New Orleans.  Matt Ryan had his best game of the year throwing for over 350 yards and a few TD's.  Still not buying into this hype that CJ is back but we will see how he fairs this week.  Atlanta in this one though.  27-20

San Diego vs. Chicago - Bears are looking strong as of late and have moved up into the eyes as many people believe a top three team in the NFC behind the Packers and Saints, Forte needs to pick it up this week though.  Love the Bears in this one.  28-14

Philadelphia vs. Giants - Well, the once "Dream Team" prediction is about to be shattered after a loss this week to the Giants.  Eli is coming off another fantastic performance and is playing with a bit of a swagger.  Despite the injuries in the backfield for the G-Men, I still think that they will get this game done.  Coach Andy Reid knows his Eagles are flat on the ground and with the rumors swirling about Vick not playing,  its not looking good for the birds.  Giants 32-17

Kansas City vs. New England - Oh boy Matt Cassel would I hate to be you this week.  I think the Pats are going to air the ball out all day and throw all over this Chiefs defense.  This will be a game where the Patriots run it up to make a statement.  Wes, Gronk and Brady will have a field day.  Patriots 30-7

OK State Coaches Die In Plane Crash

Coaches Kurt Budke and Miranda Serna die in crash

Its yet another devastating event for the Oklahoma State Family.  Coach Kurt Budke, who was commencing his seventh season at the helm of the Women's Cowboy Basketball team, and Assistant Coach, Miranda Serna, died a day earlier in a plane crash.  OK State seemingly cant avoid these horrible events.  On January 27, 2001, a plane carrying Oklahoma State coaches and players crashed in a snow storm in Colorado.  Shortly after this event, the university demanded that from that day forward all planes carrying Oklahoma State athletes be inspected thoroughly before take off.  

It was reported that the two coaches were traveling on a recruiting trip to Little Rock to watch some prospective athletes.  Budke had compiled a 112-83 record while the head coach and three trips to the NCAA tournament.  He turned a team that finished at the bottom of the conference each year a team to be reckoned with each season.  Last season, Kurt led the lady Cowboys to their most successful season ever, advancing to the second round of the NCAA tournament.  Throughout the day Friday, there was press conferences held where an immense amount of emotion was shown by each individual that had spoken.  

Kurt Budke would bring his new recruits into the facility where the team would play all of there games and the first thing he would do was walk them out to center court, raise his hands and say, "Look at this place, I love this place."  

That place loved you back, Coach.  

Tiger's Struggles Continue...Presidents Cup 2011

Well, Adam Scott and KJ Choi sure sent a clear message to the American's in the first day of the Presidents Cup in Melbourne, Australia.  Scott and Choi looked like they have been playing together for years, clicking on all cylinders.  I wish I could of been on the tee box when Tiger tee'd off yesterday in the company of his former caddie and closest friend Steve Williams.  Most of us are aware of the fall out that Stevie and Tiger had after putting together arguably one of the greatest runs in golf.  

Tiger and Stricker struggled yesterday falling 7 and 6 which matched the largest rout in the history of the Presidents Cup.  Zero birdies made for TW and Steve who were previously undefeated in their parings from recent years.  Obviously the course of Royal Melbourne is a tough track for any professional golfer but the slopes and down hill puts throughout the course posed plenty of problem for Tiger and Stricker.  They could not get anything going throughout the round and certainly a huge disappointment for the American Team.  

Much speculation and controversy has been brought around Tiger and whether or not he should of even been a Captains pick for this years event by Fred Couples.  If yesterday was any indication of the next few days to come, look out.  Stricker said "We never got any momentum, any flow, anything. We never put any pressure on them."  Tiger was forced to go at pins all day to get inside Scott's beautiful struck iron shots all day.  This is clearly not the Tiger of old but now a days, is this what we have to expect for the rest of his career?  

If so, I don't think I can seemingly watch Tiger Woods play golf anymore.  Growing up watching him tear up the competition and basically put the PGA on his back.  Now seeing him slowly dwindle from the spot light has been a hard for any golf advocate and TW supporter.   

I have continued to support Tiger over the last year stating that I believe he will eventually come around and break the major record.  But his play, coach change, caddie change, swing change and reconstructed knee has led me to believe that the best days of Tiger Woods could be behind him.  However, I'll support him until the day he makes his final putt in his last major tournament.  

Below is the schedule for the Four Ball Contest.  

Four Ball Contest

5:35 p.m. ET -- Bubba Watson and Webb Simpson, United States, vs. Ernie Elsand Ryo Ishikawa, International.

5:49 p.m. ET -- Dustin Johnson and Tiger Woods, United States, vs. Aaron Baddeley and Jason Day, International.

6:03 p.m. ET -- Phil Mickelson and Jim Furyk, United States, vs. Adam Scottand K.T. Kim, International.

6:17 p.m. ET -- Bill Haas and Nick Watney, United States, vs. Geoff Ogilvyand K.J. Choi, International.

6:31 p.m. ET -- Matt Kuchar and Steve Stricker, United States, vs. Y.E. Yangand Robert Allenby, International.

6:45 p.m. ET -- Hunter Mahan and David Toms, United States, vs. Retief Goosenand Charl Schwartzel, International.

Duke of Wins - 903

One of the best college basketball coaches in history reached a milestone that may never be surpassed again.
Duke's Mike Krzyzewski, once a player at West Point for Bob Knight moved into first place among all time coaches with his 903rd victory over Michigan State.  When you take a look at the realm of college basketball, it is something that may never happen again, something that wont ever happen again.  Once a player for Bob Knight, the former winningest coach of all time breaks his own coaches record.  Who would of ever thought that would happen.

Mike Krzyzewski is arguably the best college basketball coach of all time behind in my mind the great UCLA coach John Wooden.  Four NCAA National Championships, 13 ACC Titles, 12 Regular Season ACC Titles, Gold Medal in the 2008 Olympics leading the Men's team to a title.  Career record 903-284 with a .761 win percentage.  He as inducted into the Basketball HOF in 2001 and the college basketball HOF in 2008.  Sounds like a pretty good resume to me.  I will always remember Coach K for his quiet demeanor on the sidelines and the extraordinary relationship that he held with his players.  Over the years it was rumored Coach K would move to the NBA level to test the waters and see how he would do with a professional team after his great experience with the 08 Olympic team, he never left Duke.  He stayed true to the white and blue and had the Blue Devils Court named after him "Coach K Court".  He kept a winning tradition at Duke and made them one of the most recognized college basketball programs in the country.

When you take a look at this historic night in college basketball, its not just about the wins and losses that Coach K has accumulated throughout his years as a coach.  His relationships with his players, his advocacy throughout the years and the impact he has left on the game is unparalleled.  After the game, and the presentation of the game ball from the NCAA president, Coach K went over to his wife Michelle who after 42 years of marriage has stuck by his side traveling all to watch her husband coach his way into history.

A fan held a sign 903 & Kounting . . .

Now his focus moves to coaching this current Blue Devils team to another National Title.


Congratulations, Coach.  

Piecing it together

NFL Power Rankings Week 11 - Looking Forward to Playoffs

Power Rankings Week 11 

Clay Matthews and the Packers defense was let loose Monday night. 

1. Green Bay Packers - 9-0 

2. San Francisco 49ers 8-1 

3. Pittsburgh Steelers

4. New England Patriots

5. New Orleans Saints

6. Baltimore Ravens

7. New York Giants 

8. Houston Texans 

9. Chicago Bears

10. Detroit Lions

11. Cincinnati Bengals

12. Dallas Cowboys

13. Atlanta Falcons 

14. Buffalo Bills 

15. Oakland Raiders

16. Philadelphia Eagles

17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

18. San Diego Chargers

19. New York Jets

20. Carolina Panthers

21. Seattle Seahawks

22. Denver Broncos

23. Tennessee Titans

24. Kansas City Chiefs 

25. Jacksonville Jaguars 

26. Arizona Cardinals 

27. Miami Dolphins

28. Minnesota Vikings 

29. Cleveland Browns

30. Washington Redskins

31. St. Louis Rams

32. Indianapolis Colts 

Long Live Paterno

Its one of the biggest and fastest downfalls for a sports program in recent memory.  The PSU scandal has left millions

wondering the simple question of Why..?  Why did this have to happen to such a prestigious university like Penn State. 

Let me start with the ever so swift firing of Joe.  The Board of Trustees knew that this was way out of their hands at this point.  There was nothing more to do but to let go of the Paterno and move on.  However, if I was a Board of Trustee I would of voted for a completely formal way of dismissing the 84 year old coach.  

After four million dollars in donations, hundreds of victories, a library named after him and his name which will live with the university for the rest of its entirety, they fired him over the phone.  Thats horrible.  It appeared to me that during the Press Conference that the Board of Trustees held they were completely dumfounded with this situation.  They had no idea what to do or what the correct way to go about it would be.  This was essentially a slap on the face to all of these individuals who had to answer questions who have never spent a moment in the spot light.  Now the entire country was looking down on them for answers to the questions the media presented to them.  

I also get very irritated when you hear individuals, media members and groups of individuals try to piece together parts of this puzzle and give an edge to a particular side.  Bottom line is, what was listed in the Grand Jury report is what was known and determined to this point.  All of these other individuals seemingly read and hear the word "Rape" or "Molestation" in the same sentence as Penn State or Joe Paterno and they are completely thrown in the wrong direction.  I would be willing to bet that 98% of people had ZERO IDEA, who Sandusky was.  I guarantee they had ZERO IDEA he was the defensive coordinator for the Nittany Lions.  However, it was some what ironic to hear his name not even 1/4 of the time that Paterno's name was mentioned.  

Its a tainted legacy and something that poor man has to deal with the rest of his life.  He could of been taken off on the shoulders of his largest lineman with a grin on his face with pictures that would live forever in the world of sport. Pictures that would be held in sport almanacs and books for the rest of time.  Instead, he's left with the front page image of him signaling for students to go back to their apartments with his left arm around his wife as she cries by his side.  "Go do some studying, we love you all, thank you"  

Students reply "We love you Joe". 

Sad Days in the Valley...

If your reading this, you are familiar with the events that are taken place at Pennsylvania State University.  Or, you may of heard the constant wave of news being brought in by Sports Center every few hours.  Let me start by saying, until these actions are proven and legitimized, my statements in this blog post are merely speculation however some information has been publicized.

Let me start with Joe Paterno.  For years, I have always been an admirer of his willingness to keep on coaching and how through the years, despite the pressure from media outlets and college football fans around the country he has kept doing what he loved.  Now, he has chalked up the most wins ever by a head coach in Division I football and has lived for PSU.  Joe Paterno would of gone on to live the remainder of his years in the Valley with his loving wife, while watching the Nittany Lions from his living room chair.  Its unbelievable how one sole event can change the entire complexion of a mans legacy.  Paterno's legacy will forever be tarnished by these absolutely horrid acts that went on at State College.  Legally, according to reports that I have read today (which is why this blog was not posted earlier) he followed the exact legal protocol he needed to to make sure he would not be held accountable and he "if you will", moved these issues to his assistants and other members at Penn State.

This is a universities worst nightmare.  Look at Jim Tressel and the Buckeyes, one of the best coaches ever had his legacy tarnished as he walked away from the Ohio State University this past year.  Joe Paterno is a god at Penn State, how could this man ever be convicted of any charges, who would want too for that matter.  I will continue to elaborate in more depth on the issue at Penn State in the days to come after the allegations become more clear in my eyes.  I am not big on media, and America's media outlet has publicized this enough the last few days.

The 84 year old Paterno was quoted saying, say a prayer for the victims.  As hundreds of students gathered outside of his home in the Valley this evening to show their support, here I am too, supporting Joe Pa and I hope this man can walk away from the game just as he would of had these allegations not been brought up.  Personally though, on a college football level, its time for Joe to pack up and enjoy what time he has left with his wife, family and grandchildren.  He deserves that, he does not deserve this.

Breaking down LSU vs Alabama - Game of the Year

Well folks, here it is.  Santa has come fifty some odd days early to deliver college football fans the game of the decade. Its #1 vs #2.  Two of the best defenses in college football.  Lets start with the LSU offense.  Running back Spencer Ware is a downhill runner with a shifty ability to split through the gaps with ease.  Spencer has only 500+ yards and six touchdowns thus far but look for him to be a big factor out of the backfield this week.  Quarterback Jarret Lee is going to be the X factor for this Tiger offense.  If he makes mistakes and throws interceptions, the Crimson Tide will take advantage and if their defense is rested and off the field thats only better for the Tide.  Bama is going to pound the ball with #3 Trent Richardson.

I love Richardson to be the deciding factor for the Tide.  If he runs the ball successfully, look for Coach Saban to try to pick his spots with the Tiger defense.  BUT, as Lee Corso would say, "Not so fast my friend",  defensive player of the year in my mind has to go to Tyron Mathieu, an absolute monster.  He is going to probably be matched up against Marquis Maze who leads Alabama in rec. yards with over 450+.  This may cause a problem for Alabama if they cant throw the ball because LSU's front is very very strong against the run.  I'm not totally sold on Sophomore QB AJ McCarron, yes the Tide are undefeated but if you take a look at Mc's numbers, they are nothing that jumps of the page.

Keys to the game for Alabama are, make no mistakes on offense.  Run early and often.  Convert on third downs.  And dont get behind on the score board.

Keys to the game for LSU, Blitz the Sophomore QB.  Be aware of Richardson.  Mix it up on offense.  Use your speed!!

My impact player - #7 Tyron Mathieu - Tyron can pose major problems for defenses and he has all year long.  He will blitz, he will cover, he will do it all.

Overall, I know this is a home game for Alabama but it wont matter.  LSU has and will use silent counts and they are probably practicing them everyday this week.  The defense is just too much for Alabama to handle.  Maze will be shut down by the corner backs from LSU.  The speed is all over the field for the Tigers, (not saying the Tide are slow) but it just is a different type of feel for me.  Look for Les Miles to have a trick or two up his sleeve in this one.

I picked LSU to win the BCS (off the record) earlier in the year.  I'm sticking with my gut.  The Tigers find ways to win, they have had star players out against great teams and still won.  Thats what this team does. Their speed kills and they are going to ware down the Crimson Tide.  Fast one, close one early,  LSU pulls away in the third quarter an wins this game 41-21.   

Heisman Watch Top 3 - Luck In Lead

Andrew Luck's triple over time victory over USC this past weekend was unreal.  It was the best college football game to date this year so far.  Luck, who passed on this past years NFL draft to return to Stanford had one thing on his mind.  A national championship.  The Heisman hopeful has been has over 2,200 yards passing and twenty three touchdowns.  I like him to continue use arial onslaught this week against Oregon State (2-6).  


Trent Richardson ranks #2 on my list and #1 for all running backs.  This could be Trent's statement game against arguably the best defense in the country LSU.  Obviously this game has major BCS implications and every sports fan in America will be tuned in for this game.  Richardson needs eleven yards to go over 1,000 yards so far this season.  He has rushed for seventeen touchdowns and despite being slowed down by Tennessee this past weekend I look for him to get back on track against the Tigers.  If Alabama wins this game, #3 will be the reason.  


This is tough for me at number three, but I have to go with Case Keenum from Houston.  Case threw for nine touchdowns against Rice last week and over 530 yards.  Talk about a statement game for the Senior from Albilene Texas.  Keenum has thrown for over 3,000 yards already this season and 32 touchdowns.  The problem here is that he plays for Houston and when you look at the strength of schedule, it ranks pretty low amongst most FBS schools.  Look for another huge game out of Keenum this week as they take on UAB (1-7).  


PJG

Two for Two

Happy Wednesday

Exciting week of NFL football coming up in week nine.  For the rest of the season I will include all of the weeks games and my picks.  Then talk a little about Fantasy updates later in the blog.   

Miami at Kansas City	1:00 PM	CBS	Tickets	Arrowhead Stadium
Atlanta at Indianapolis	1:00 PM	FOX	Tickets	Lucas Oil Stadium
Tampa Bay at New Orleans	1:00 PM	FOX	Tickets	Mercedes-Benz Superdome
NY Jets at Buffalo	1:00 PM	CBS	Tickets	Ralph Wilson Stadium
Seattle at Dallas	1:00 PM	FOX	Tickets	Cowboys Stadium
Cleveland at Houston	1:00 PM	CBS	Tickets	Reliant Stadium
San Francisco at Washington	1:00 PM	FOX	Tickets	FedEx Field
Cincinnati at Tennessee	4:05 PM	CBS	Tickets	LP Field
Denver at Oakland	4:05 PM	CBS	Tickets	Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
NY Giants at New England	4:15 PM	FOX	Tickets	Gillette Stadium
St. Louis at Arizona	4:15 PM	FOX	Tickets	U of Phoenix Stadium
Green Bay at San Diego	4:15 PM	FOX	Tickets	Qualcomm Stadium
Baltimore at Pittsburgh	8:20 PM	NBC	Tickets	Heinz Field

Miami vs Kansas City - I love the way the Chiefs have turned their season around after a disappointing start to the year.  I dont see the Dolphins getting it going this year.  They are just horrible.  Sparano is on his way out and they really need to focus on this years draft to turn around there team.  KC 27-10

Atlanta vs. Indianapolis - Fresh off a bye week you have to love this match up for the Falcons.  Turner will explode for 80+ yards and a touchdown.  I like Roddy White to be a deep threat against the poor Indy secondary.  Matt Ryan should be able to extend his consecutive games with a thrown touchdown streak.  Indianapolis just wants this season to be over.   Atlanta 28-3

Tampa Bay vs New Orleans - If you told me New Orleans was going to get embarrassed by the Rams I would call you crazy.  Clearly that was no the case,  New Orleans has a tough matchup this week against the Buccaneers.  Blount will be back in action for this game and it is likely that this will immensely open up the passing game for Josh Freeman.  Despite the loss last week, New Orleans will bounce back and win this game.  Closer than people think though, Drew Brees will have a 250+ yard game and three touchdowns. I cant see the Saints running the ball to much in this game which should help the Tampa Bay's defensive strategy.  Saints 27-24

New York Jets vs Buffalo Bills - I completely disagree with the front office move of the Bills to give Ryan Fitzpatrick that large contract extension.  However, he's proven himself worthy.  The passing game wont be much of a threat in this weeks game for the Bills,  star WR Steve Johnson will get locked up by Revis.  However, game changer is one of the league leaders in rushing Fred Jackson.  I like Jackson to get the ball a lot out of the shotgun and screen passes.  Never been a fan of Mark Sanchez, never will be.  Jets have been overhyped and will lose this game to the Bills.  Bills 27-17

Seattle vs. Dallas - Love Pete Carrol, but this is not last year.  Not much to say about the Seahawks this year, this one will be short. Romo needs to bounce back from the beating the Eagles put on them Monday night. I am not a huge believer of the Cowboys this year, Murray had one good game and was brought back to earth last week against the Eagles.  This is a tough one, but I have to go with my gut, special teams or defense wins this match up.  Cowboys 21-10

Cleveland at Houston - With Arian Foster back on track, Andre Johnson will be back in the line up week nine to open up the pass more for quarterback Matt Shaub.  Cleveland is a team troubled by disappointment this year.  One hit wonder Peyton Hillis is sad hes not getting a new contract right now and is holding out. Though he wont admit it,  that hamstring is just fine.  Houston will win this game.  Houston 35-10

San Francisco at Washington - Love the way Jim Harbaugh has inspired this 49's team.  Frank Gore is running the ball extremely well which is giving Alex Smith the opportunity to throw the ball down the field.  Not a big fan of Washington and the trouble they are having this season.  They cant figure out there running game which causes majors problems for the offense.  San Francisco serves there respectable #3 ranking on ESPN well this week.  San Fran wins without a problem.  SF 28-7

Cincinnati vs. Tennessee - Chris Johnson cant get it going this year.  He's been by far the biggest fantasy football disappointment along with Cleveland's Peyton Hillis.  I like Javon Ringer to see some touches this week but it wont be enough to beat Cincy.  Andy Dalton has given the city a new sense of belief with the way this team is playing right now, look for AJ Green to continue to have a big impact as a deep threat.  Bengals 17-10

Denver vs Oakland - Changed my mind since I found out McFadden has a chance to not play this week.  I still like Oakland to win, but not by two touchdowns.  I think this game will come down to a field goal.  Raiders 20-17

NY Giants vs. New England - After a disappointing loss to the new favorite in the AFC you have to believe Brady and Co. are going to come out with some fire this week.  I think this game is going to be high scoring, with Eli Manning putting up numbers left and right and that poor Pats secondary, I am not sure of the status on Bradshaw for the G-Men but regardless N.E wont lose two in a row.  Close though,  Pats 38-30

St. Louis vs. Arizona - Two words.  Steven Jackson.  Two more words, Beanie Wells.  This game will be determined between the tackles in week nine.  Kolb is having a poor season and with Bradford's status in question, I think its going to be a run heavy game.  Larry Fitz has had 19 catches in the month of October, need to see more from him this year.  Close game but I like those Rams to pull it out with a game winning FG.  St. Lou 20-17

Green Bay vs. Chargers - Aaron Rodgers returns off his bye week for the undefeated and defending champ Packers.  Phillip Rivers has been the most disappointing QB to this point of the year after his record setting year last year.  I want to see the Pack go undefeated so you can bet I'm not picking against them.  Aaron will hook up with his gang over receivers and win this game.  Vincent Jackson has also been a huge disappointment for the Chargers.  Their running backs Tolbert and Matthews have also been plagued with injuries. No fire power for the Chargers to hang around.   Pack 35-14

Game of the week: Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh - Well folks, sorry to say the Steelers have been released from the local nursing home and look better than last year.  Big Ben has been superb in his last four games bringing the defending AFC champs back to the top of the division as well as the league.  Mendenhall is healthy and we are finally starting to see Heath Miller make his way into the offense after a disappointing start.  The Young Money Crew of Antonio Brown, Mike Wallace and Emmanuel Sanders has been explosive for the Lers offense.    As for Baltimore, the defense is as solid as ever.  Ray Rice is tearing up defenses except for his set back week 8 against he Jags.  If he cant run on the Jags, he certainly is not running on the Steelers.  Simply put this will be a close game but the Steelers will win.  Ben will explode and they just have too many threats on offense for Baltimore to stop.  Close game, but as long as the Steelers come out completely forgetting they beat the Pats last week, this should be chalked up as another W and they will have control of their own destiny.  Steelers 24-17


PJG