Heisman Vote Goes to....

So who gets my Heisman vote this season, in one of the more close races, this years winner is quite hard to predict. The three front runners are Trent Richardson, Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III.  However, which player to pick is quite hard.  Lets break it down.

Trent Richardson - RB - Alabama Crimson Tide 

It's been a great year for the Tide's star running back totaling just over 1900 all purpose yards and 23 touchdowns this season.  Trent is a strong, fast downhill runner who has performed his best in big time games this season.  He was a powerful force in all of their victories this year and Nick Saban believes his running back is the best player in the country.   My analysis of Trent goes as such, the star running back did not have the best game in the world against the 2nd rated defense in LSU in the country during their early November show down.  His best games of the year came against, Arkansas, Florida, Penn State and Ole Miss and in the game vs the Rebels he rushed for 183 and four touchdowns.  You always try to figure out what this player means to their team and how they would fair without him. Trent is by far the catalyst for the Crimson Tide offense and they go as he goes.  Not taking any credit away from the rest of their offensive stars but Trent, who was plagued by injury last season surely showed why he is one of the favorites for the Heisman Trophy.

Andrew Luck - QB - Stanford Cardinals

Over 3000 yards passing and 35 passing touchdowns with two rushing touchdowns seems like a hell of a season if you ask me.  Andrew has been receiving all the hype since he decided to stay and play at Stanford this season after the departure of his head coach.  He wanted to lead the Cardinals to a National Championship which he felt short of.  However, that does not take away from some of Luck's best performances of the year.  His best game in my eyes, came against USC were he led the Cards to a Triple OT win over the Trojans.  He threw for three touchdowns and 330 yards along with a rushing touchdown.  The next game that impressed me was his performance against a fast Oregon defense.  Although they lost the game by 23 points, he still played well, the defense played horrific.  It's clear that Stanford would not be in the position they are without their star QB at the helm and would not be playing in the BCS Tositos Fiesta Bowl against the Cowboys from Oklahoma State.  To me, this guy is the most valuable to his team and they could not do without him.  Great year for Luck.

Robert Griffin III - QB - Baylor Bears

RBIII has had an interesting year at Baylor with amazing wins over Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech.  He has thrown for 3,398 yards this season and 36 passing touchdowns.  He has 644 yards rushing and 9 rushing touchdowns on the season totally 45 touchdowns and over 4,300 total yards for the Baylor Bears.  The staple mark for me was his performance against Oklahoma on November 19th.  The QB threw for 479 yards and four touchdowns and had 72 yards on the ground. This team was previously ranked pre season #1 in the AP / Coaches poll and he put Baylor on his back and absolutely routed the Sooners.  HIs performance against Texas was quite impressive as well, racking up four total touchdowns and 353 all purpose yards on the day.  When you look at RBIII and the rest of Baylor its pretty clear that this team could not contend with some of the best in the Big 12 without him at the helm.  Griffin has had a monstrous season putting up amazing numbers and seemingly winning over voters left and right.


So who gets my vote?

Robert Griffin III - RBIII has better numbers than Stanford QB A. Luck for starters.  Number two, he has wins against better quality opponents and better performances in these games than his counterpart.  Baylor would not be the same team without RBIII and when it comes down to it, he really is the best player in college football this season.  The Big 12 is the second best conference in the NCAA only behind the SEC.  Some would even put the Big 12 ahead of the SEC depending on the year obviously. Throwing for almost 4000 yards and 45 touchdowns both on the ground and through the air, quite impressive.  Regardless, RBIII gets my vote.  It will be interesting to see how the next few months pan out for him and see how he can improve to become an NFL QB but that remains to be seen. Congrats to all of the candidates for a great season.  

PJG

Correct Calculations

Happy Monday Sports Fans,

So last night the sports world was informed officially who would be competing for the BCS National Championship Game.  If your an avid reader of my blog, you know that I wrote about LSU v Bama in the beginning of November in what I believed was the game of the year.  Last night, I read what appeared to be an immense amount of anger and frustration with the computer systems that the BCS uses to determine their games.  But then again, there was a lot of positive energy surrounding the January 9th showdown between the two SEC perennial powers.

Why Oklahoma St. is not in

All the credit in the world to the Cowboys and their performance this season in the Big 12.  However, lets look why they are NOT in the title game.  First off, the Cowboys best WIN of the year came against #8 ranked Kansas State. (10-2)  Their loss came against the Iowa State (3-6) (6-6) by six.  Yes, they crushed the pre season #1 Oklahoma Sooners who seemingly ended up with a disappointing season, yet again.

Why Alabama is in

Hats off again, to arguably the best coach in college football Nick Saban who has navigated his Crimson Tide to his third National Championship game.  Now, why is Alabama in and Ok St. not, here is why.  Alabama's best win on the season came against a higher ranked, and better opponent in the Arkansas Razorbacks.  A convincing win for the Tide put them ahead of the rest.  This is key, their LOSS, came against the #1 team in the country the LSU Tigers.  In OVERTIME, after missing field goals the entire first half!  Their defense kept the Tigers in check the entire game and it was a battle of the defenses.  So they are both from the SEC, it does not matter, they are the best teams.  If Alabama were to play Oklahoma State at a neutral site, you better believe the Tide will be favored, significantly because of their defense.


The bottom line here is, the two best teams in the country are playing for the National Title.  How can you argue with a computer system that takes into account the strength of schedule, your wins and losses and much more.  You cant.  It may appear as if I am a fan of the bowl system we currently have in place, thats far from the truth.  My point here is that who does not want to see LSU vs Bama again?  The BEST TWO DEFENSES in the country without question, which was pretty clear in early November in their matchup.  The SEC is the best conference in the NCAA and I find it to be a rare occurrence to were someone may argue that point with me.  You have the favorite to win the Heisman carrying the ball on one side of the line and arguably the Defensive Player of the Year in Tyron Mathieu on the other.

LSU was my pick to win the National Title at the beginning of the year and I asserted that in my last write up surrounding the hype of this match up.  You are all going to get to see a great football game again, the edge goes to the Tigers and I will have my final write up on this match-up at the end of the year.

A Fist Pump and Smile

I remember sending a tweet over the summer that said "Will Tiger ever find his old self again.." I had several responses and a number of individuals who voiced their opinions about Tiger.  A number of these people seemingly think Tiger has no chance to catch Jack.  Saying he's "burnt out" or "washed up".  I bit my tongue for the moment that finally came on the first Sunday in December 2011.  I could not of been more moved by Tiger's victory today at the Chevron World Challenge.

You could tell that Tiger felt an amazing sea of emotions with his victory.  Everyone was fist pumping in the gallery after his beautiful putt on the 17th green after lacing a beautiful iron up over the elevated green.  It seems as though people are beginning to accept him again.  You could see as he walked off the green the amount of fans trying to shake his hand and pat him on the back for his efforts this week.  Tiger stood on the 18th tee knowing what Zach Johnson had done yesterday after holing out at the end of his round.  He also knew, that holes 15-18 were very cruel to him this week.  It did not matter, we saw the Tiger of old today and if people in the golf world are not exciting about what is going to come in 2012, get ready.

After 749 days, TW finally rises back to the top of the golfing world after his win.  Jumping back to the 20th ranked player in the world after being outside the top 50 (52).  Tiger has won 83 tournaments world wide and today came his first since 2007.  For the week, he fired a -10 under 278 and beat out Zach Johnson by one stroke.  After landing his putt on the 18th green you saw Woods burst into an elated state of mind like he was the only one in the world who just witnessed.  Lets face it, the guy has been through hell and back ever since his scandal broke that November evening in 2009.

Losing his life long best friend on the bag Stevie Williams and his coach Hank Haney, Tiger had to do some soul searching as of late.  With a bad knee, and issues with his foot, some say Tiger would never win again.  False.  Yes, some may argue with me and say "Tiger won in a field of 18 this week and some of the best young guns were not in the tournament".  It does not matter, who ever you put in the field this week would not of lifted themselves above Tiger and won.  This was his time, he was destined to win this week and if you are not a believer that Tiger's game is coming back to form, check out his last few tournaments.  Outstanding performances outside of his lopsided loss to Adam Scott and KJ in the first pairing of the Presidents Cup, that was not an individual competition.

If you know anything about golf, and have been an avid watcher of Tiger's career, you can sense when he's going to wake up the world and make a statement.  Also, you would know that TW has handled more pressure in the game of golf than anyone to ever pick up a club.

So tonight, I'm going on the record to everyone reading this saying the man is back.  His swing looks phenomenal, he is hitting great iron shots again and has great control of the trajectory of his golf ball.  He was able to cut, draw and line golf ball all over the course this week.  You notice he has not been putting as much pressure on his knee and has worked drastically with his swing coach Sean Foley to improve his mechanics to best suit him in the long run.

Bottom line is, the man has 14 major victories and only needs a few more to break the record.  The ten time PGA tour player of the year will be 36 at the end of December heading into next year.  He was in contention at Augusta last year roaring back in the final two rounds only to come up a few shots short.  He will win TWO majors next year, one being the Masters, were he has had great success.  Let's face it, the world of golf needs Tiger and so does the rest of the sports world.


The 2012 Chinese zodiac says it will be the year of the dragon, wrong. It will be the Year of the Tiger. 


I sent this write up to Tiger via Twitter, hopefully he catches this on his way back to Florida.  


PJG

Tonights Posts

Tiger Woods and BCS Selection Sunday ... stay tuned

NFL Picks Week 13

Another week in the NFL and that means another week of picks on PJG Sports

Lets get at it.

Carolina vs. Tampa Bay - Carolina's struggles continue but no one can doubt the great season Newton has had.  They need to draft some more defensive players in 2012.  Look for Blount to have a solid game on the ground, close one though.  Panthers 24-21

Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh - Bengals will seek revenge in this Week 13 matchup with the Steelers.  Look for Dalton to throw the ball more and try to take advantage of the Steeler secondary.  Won't matter though, Ben will throw for 275+ and lead the Steelers to another W.  Pittsburgh 27-17

Atlanta vs. Houston - This would be an awesome game if Matt Shaub was not injured.  Houston, who still sits atop the South will look to go on the ground a lot.  Pick day for Foster and Co.  However, Matt Ryan has been on fire the last three weeks.  I like Atlanta, Foster can only do so much.  Falcons 30-20

NY Jets vs. Washington - Roy Helu showed major improvements last week on the ground and is now the starter in Washington.  This is a must win for the Jets, seeing as the Steelers will probably beat the Bengals, they could gain a game in the Wild Card race.  Jets 28-21

Indianapolis vs. New England - Colts would be out of their mind to bring Manning back this season.  Take your losses and move on.  They stand no chance against the Patriots this week.  Look for Brady to have an absolute field day with Welker and Gronkowski.  34-13

Oakland vs. Miami - Miami has shown signs of improvement in the last few weeks, still Oakland has improved and Palmer appears to be settling in.  Oakland needs to win to keep their edge in the west.  Oakland 20-10

Denver vs. Minnesota - AP is out again this week, which means they will have to resort to Toby Gerhart at the RB position.  I picked against him last week and he proved me wrong,  good for you Tebow.  Broncos 20-17

Tennessee vs. Buffalo - Buffalo has not been what they were at the beginning of the season.  Very unlikely either of these teams will be in the playoffs seeing how the Wild Card is pretty much locked between three teams.  Who wants the better draft pick?  Buffalo 27-21

Kansas City vs. Chicago - No Cutler, struggling on offense with Matt Forte, confusing days for the Bears.  KC is just horrid and stands no chance with Palko at the helm.  Bears 17-13

Baltimore vs. Cleveland - Interesting to see how Hillis will fair against the Ravens, last year in the first meeting he ran for 144 and two touchdowns. Still wont matter, Baltimore will show some toughness and lock the Browns down.  Ravens 24-10

Dallas vs. Arizona - Dallas is playing great football right now.  Look for them to continue this against the Cards.  Beanie wells wont be having the type of day he had last week.  Romo and Co. 29-17

Green Bay vs. NY Giants - Packers need to get out of this game with a win.  The only questionable game would be against the Lions.  Eli and the Giants need to figure out their running game and get back on track.  Wont happen this week though.  Pack stays golden.  35-20

St. Louis vs. San Francisco - 49ers all day in this one.  49ers 27-10

Detroit vs. New Orleans - Game of the Week in the NFL.  Look for Drew Brees to have a big game against the Detroit defense.  Love how the Saints are playing lately, not so much the Lions.  Saints 30-17

Enjoy your football sunday!

PJG

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