NFL 2007 Divisional Playoffs

The divisional round of the 2007 NFL playoffs are upon us. Four great games to set us up for the final four teams in search of the Lombardi Trophy. First round byes are over, and the juggernauts of the NFC and AFC are ready to join the party.

Cue the NFL Films music, its time for some gridiron...


Seattle Seahawks @ Green Bay Packers
Brett Favre's last dance? According to reports today, probably not. The Seahawks response to being down against the Redskins was impressive in the Wild Card round. But this week they face a much better offense in the Packers. The Seahawks will be pressuring Favre all game long, but he still has the scramble power to help his team pull this out. Playoff game at Lambeau Field? Does not get much better than that.

Especially if you are this dude.

Packers win 31-20.

San Diego Chargers @ Indianapolis Colts
The Chargers have won the last two of three against the Colts in the regular season, including a victory in November in which Peyton Manning threw six interceptions (of course I was in the stands for that one, ugh). That was a Colts team coming off their loss to the Patriots, and which they were short some key players, especially on the offensive side of the football.

This time around Manning will have Dallas Clark, and as of right now, future Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison. Meanwhile, the Chargers ended the regular season with a six-game winning streak, and played solid football in the second half of the Wild Card game.

We will see if LaDanian Tomlinson can get something going in a big playoff game, which might be a tall task with Bob Sanders waiting in the backfield. This game will be on the shoulders of Philip Rivers, as it was last week for the Chargers. San Diego, say hello to a different Manning that you did not see in November.

Colts win 34-24.

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys
Now we are getting to the fun ones. Can Eli Manning follow up his first playoff win with another quality performance? What color Cowboys jersey will Jessica Simpson be wearing?

The Giants are on an eight-game road winning streak and are a different team than the Cowboys saw in the regular season. Will Terrell Owens play? Of course he will. We were wondering the same thing when he was on the Eagles about to play in the Super Bowl. Expect to see TO playing in the game. He may be limited on what he can provide on the field but I still expect to see him haul in a TD.

Tony Romo better have his running shoes, because the Giants D-Line will be going at him all day. We will see the Cowboys get out to the early lead before Manning settles down and pulls this one out for the Giants.

Giants win 35-30.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ New England Patriots
The Jaguars are the team that everyone is deeming the favorite to dethrone the Patriots in the playoffs. I don't buy the hype.

Teams have proven that you can run on the Patriots towards the end of the season (see: Joseph Addai, Willis McGahee, Willie Parker), and a lot of people are doubting the linebacker core of the Pats, but I do not hear that junk. That core group are some of the most professional dudes in the league at those positions and will be ready for the challenge of taking on the running attack of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew.

It will be a close one and that will work in the Pats advantage: they have been here before with this group.

David Garrard may take good care of the football, but he will have a couple mistakes in this game that the Pats will immediately capitalize on.

Patriots win 27-23.

2007 - First To Third Favorites

Dirty. Nasty. Sick. Whatever you want to call it. That dunk sticks out in my mind for 2007. More on that dunk and the Warriors later.

Another beautiful year of sports has passed. There were ugly stories, beautiful stories, arrests, substance abuse accusations, cinderella stories, champions were crowned... just another 12 months of entertainment.

The following is a list of the great moments according to First to Third sports blog:

- Peyton Manning and the Colts finally win the big one. Sure, Super Bowl XLI is considered to be part of the 2006 NFL season, but the game was played in February, along with the AFC championship game.

The Colts finally exercised their demons by defeating the Patriots when it counts. Then they went on to beat the Chicago Bears to crown Indianapolis champions and make Tony Dungy the first African American coach to win the Super Bowl.

Going into the playoffs the Colts were not looked at as the favorites to get to the championship game, but their less than stellar defense woke up at the right time and carried the squad to the Lombardi trophy.

Always a good thing when a great quarterback like Manning can get that monkey off his shoulders by winning a ring.

- Someone stop Boston. The Red Sox looked like they were headed for the golf courses before coming back from a 3-1 deficit against the Cleveland Indians in the ALCS, and eventually went on to win the World Series.

Everything looked bleak for Boston. Any pitcher not named Josh Beckett was getting hit by the Indians and Manny Ramirez was posing for home runs even though his team trailed by six runs late in the game. But the power of Rachel Phelps came over the Indians, and they choked away their chance at a World Series.

The New England Patriots. Have you heard of them lately? Spy gate came out and all hell broke loose. Dudes got pissed, and the rest of the league is paying. Every week they were going into the games with the mentality of, "we are going to kick your ass... and you can't do shit about it."

They completed the first 16-0 regular season and will be looking to move to 19-0 on the season as they chase the Lombardi trophy going into 2008.

Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen head to the Celtics. Garnett finally got his opportunity to play for a championship-caliber team with the "Three-headed monster." Paul Pierce, Allen, and Garnett quickly gelled and have started the NBA season 26-3 in 2007 (moved to 27-3 tonight).

2008 will show whether or not their dynamic three can reach that Larry O'Brien trophy.

- Retirement. Tough on the eyes. Losing his mystic. Those were the thoughts going through my mind about Brett Favre before the beginning of the 2007 season. Boy was I wrong. I thought Favre should have retired following the 2004 season because the Packers went a respectable 10-6, and 2005 was just ugly.

Something sparked inside Favre though. The Packers won their final four games in 2006, and that momentum carried into the 2007 season. The Packers ended the regular season with a 13-3 record and Favre looked like a young 20-year-old on the football field.

Ron Jaworski was talking about asking Favre about his arm strength before a game. Favre looked at Jaworski, told him to watch the pylon. Standing at the 50-yard-line, Favre nailed the pylon and answered Jaworski's question about his arm.

I am glad you never left Brett. Good luck in the playoffs, I will be rooting for you.

- Upsets in college football. First there was Appalachian State over Michigan. And then there was Stanford over USC. There were more, but those stuck out in my mind.

The Appalachian State game was obviously the biggest upset of the year... maybe ever. And the Stanford upset was a personal favorite of First to Third, because UCLA is a personal favorite here. We are probably talking about USC being in the BCS Championship Game had they taken care of business and beat Stanford on that day.

- Claire Markwardt. I wrote about this girl in the past, here.

Amazing story. Amazing heart.

- Barry Bonds. He broke the record. I missed witnessing it in person by one day. One day. What many look at as the holy grail of sports records. Many want to put an asterisk on the record, but it was still fun to watch and I was not one to pass judgment, especially since he never tested positive.

Sure he was name on the Mitchell Report, but his name (and head) have always been linked to performance-enhancing drugs.

It was entertainment, and that is what sports is all about.

- Best bowl game. Ever. Boise State over Oklahoma. Most entertaining game I have ever seen.

An instant classic... no question about it.

- The Uglies of 2007: Marion Jones. The George Mitchell report. Tim Donaghy. Michael Vick. You know the stories. It is easy to rehash on the negatives. Lets hope 2008's ugly stories are a little more bearable to look at.

- And now to my favorite story of 2007. The Golden State Warriors. Don Nelson was always a favorite of mine in the NBA. Baron Davis is an ultimate favorite of First to Third. Anytime those two combine to take down the Dallas Mavericks is fine by me.

Not only was this the biggest upset in NBA playoff history, but that series also rekindled my love for the NBA. Their play against the Mavericks reminded me of school yard ball. When you and your boys are playing ball at your favorite park/school/gym and you cannot be touched.

Everywhere you are passing is hitting the right guy. Everything you shoot is the right shot. The team is a well-oiled machine, and for those moments that you are on the court you seem invincible.

The Warriors were school yard kids having the time of their lives against Mavericks. They were jazz mixed with hip-hop on the hardwood, sort of like A Tribe Called Quest's Low End Theory album.

I could not, and would not miss a game of the series. The crowd at the Oracle Arena made me want to be a Warriors fan, and after a couple of playoff games, I was.

Unfortunately their run ended against the Utah Jazz, but we still got the dunk gem of Davis posterizing Andre "I must break you" Kirilenko.

Coupled with the youth of the Lakers to start the 2007-2008 season, the Warriors gave me a reason to take time out of my life to watch my first love again.

---

So there you have it. The favorites of 2007 according to First To Third Sports blog.

Oh, and I left one off the list.

- The birth of First To Third Sports Blog. Smiley face.

Raise your glasses to the end of 2007 and the beginning of 2008. Lets have some fun.

NFL Week 11

The church of sports fan is upon us and lets hope I can pick some winners this week after all the upsets last week.

For the rest of the season I will be rooting for the San Francisco 49ers because the New England Patriots own the rights to their first round pick in next year's draft. The rich keep getting richer.

Indianapolis and Pittsburgh are now in a dogfight for the second best record in the AFC because the Patriots are clearly not losing anytime soon (especially after drunk '72 Dolphins motivate them).

While in the NFC, Dallas and Green Bay are duking it out for the best record.

Picks:

Tampa Bay Bucs @ Atlanta Falcons - The Bucs are coming off a bye week and looking to keep their first place spot in the NFC South with Carolina and New Orleans not far behind. Joey Harrington sucks. Tampa Bay.

Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens - Nice divisional matchup between AFC North opponents with Kyle Boller getting the start for the Ravens. Last week he could not throw the ball 3 yards while warming up on the sidelines - did anyone else catch that clip? Anyway, Derek Anderson owns because he is on my fantasy team. Cleveland.

Arizona Cardinals @ Cincinnati Bengals - Amazingly, the Cardinals are still alive in their division, but then again they play in the NFC Worst. The Bengals like jail. Cincinnati.

Carolina Panthers @ Green Bay Packers - Did you know? If Vinny Testaverde starts opposite of Brett Favre, they will combine for the oldest age among two starting QBs in NFL history. Panthers are 9.5 point dogs, but have a good road record. Betting man, take the Panthers to cover. Green Bay.

New Orleans Saints @ Houston Texans - New Orleans laid an egg last week by losing to the winless Rams. The Texans will have Andre Johnson and Matt Schaub back. The Saints will rebound. Betting man, take the Saints as they are 1.5 point dogs. New Orleans.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Indianapolis Colts - "The Colts are done." That is all I have heard. Yes they lost Dwight Freeney, and Marvin Harrison is still out but Dallas Clark will be back to help Peyton Manning avoid 6 INTs this week. Chiefs are without Larry Johnson and will start QB Brodie Croyle (his wife is hot. Indianapolis.

San Diego Chargers @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Phillip Rivers sucks and will not be bailed out by six interceptions by the opposing QB this week. Maurice Jones-Drew is a human cannonball and went to UCLA. Jacksonville.

Oakland Raiders @ Minnesota Vikings - If this game was in Oakland I would pick the Raiders. And they are not starting JaMarcus Russell. Wait, wait. I remember what Daunte Culpepper did to Miami when he faced them. Oakland.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Miami Dolphins - Suck it '72 Dolphins. You should keep your mouths shut if you know what is good for your perfect season. Philadelphia.

New York Giants @ Detroit Lions - This is a tough one. Just when I think Eli has it all together he decides to resort to his old ways. The Lions are perfect at home this season. Detroit.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Jets - No need to explain. Betting man take the Steelers as the 9.5 point favorite. Pittsburgh.

Washington Redskins @ Dallas Cowboys - Cowboys at home is an easy pick, especially against a divisional foe. Betting man they will cover the points as well. Dallas.

St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers - This week's suck off. Trent Dilfer will get the start over Alex Smith. Rams woke up for a game last week and will be able to score more than the Niners. St. Louis.

Chicago Bears @ Seattle Seahawks - I almost caught myself typing that the Bears will react positively to Rex Grossman getting the start, but then my fingernails began to throw up. Seattle.

New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills - Betting man take the 16 point-favored Pats. New England.

Tennessee Titans @ Denver Broncos - Vince Young on a Monday night? Expect a decent game out of the kid, dare I say a fantasy football worthy performance. Tennessee.

Week 10 record: 5-9
Overall (started week 3): 63-49

I end this NFL picks edition with Randy Marsh making moves on Guitar Hero 3 like I do:

Damn That Was Ugly

Yesterday was not a good day for Mr. Peyton Manning. A NFL team should not have a shot in hell to win a game any time a quarterback throws six INTs.

But somehow, the Colts had the opportunity to take a one-point lead with 1:31 left in the game with Adam Matthew Vinatieri lining up for a field goal. One of the most clutch field goal kickers then found a way to kick the 29-yard chip shot wide right. Game over. Or not.

Manning still had a chance to make a miracle run down the field after the Colts held the San Diego Chargers to a three-and-out. But with no timeouts and average receivers on the field, Manning had no choice but to throw it to a Chargers player instead, for his sixth interception.

Chargers win, 23-21.

The Chargers played well in the first half, mainly special teams and their defense. Philip Rivers had a below average game, throwing for 104 yards, two interceptions and zero TDs.

They did not score a point in the second half and were primed to be caught by the Colts.

Unfortunately for Manning, the Chargers defense shut down Joseph Addai and the Colts run game, so he had to throw for much of the day. Never a bad thing for Manning, but he was without three consistent receivers: Dallas Clark, Marvin Harrison, and Anthony Gonzalez.

Manning got to throw to Bryan Fletcher, Ben Utecht, Aaron Moorehead, and Craphonso Thorpe. Yesterday was Thorpe's first NFL catch in his career. Yes, Manning had Reggie Wayne as well, but one receiver can only do so much while being double covered.

Just makes you realize that a quarterback does not make a team. Manning was lost without his normal receivers. He had to acquaint himself to the receivers during the game and looked like his little brother on the day. Okay, that was an unjustified shot, as Eli is not that bad, but Peyton did not look like Peyton the day.

Tom Brady is on fire this year because he has a 21-year-old version of Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and Donte Stallworth to throw to. Last year he had the dude with the bugged out eyes in Reche Caldwell (side note: I forgot dude's name so I googled "bug eyed patriots receiver" and his name came up immediately, classic).

I say the Colts win last night's game if they had Dallas Clark playing in the game. There were ugly dropped passes that could have changed the game.

It was my first NFL game that I have attended and could not have asked for a better time. Tailgating for a good five hours (albondigas, carne asada, rib eye, coors light), train ride, and got heckled a little.

You know how the camera shakes during the television broadcast when the crowd is going nuts? Well, that is the realness, as I felt that going through my body when the crowd was trying to make Manning and Co. deaf.

Weekly NFL wrap up coming after tonight's MNF great matchup of the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks.

NFL Week 10 Picks

The weekend is upon us and it is time to start thinking about Sunday. There are some good games this week with Dallas visiting New York and Denver taking on Kansas City.

The main attraction? It has personal value to me because it will be the first NFL game that I have ever attended. Indianapolis Colts @ San Diego Chargers, NBC's Sunday night game. It should be a good game with both teams coming off disappointing losses.

Picks:

Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers - The Falcons are winless on the road, and the Panthers are winless at home. Vinny Testaverde will probably start and that, as weird as it is to say this, is a good thing. UCLA alumn DeShaun Foster should have a good game because he has averaged 110+ yards/game against the Falcons in his career. Carolina.

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers - Green Bay is the real deal, and will have to do something that the Chargers could not, stop Adrian Peterson. I am skeptical of the Packers running game but I think Brett Favre has magic about him this season. Green Bay.

Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs - The Broncos looked awful last week against the Lions. Larry Johnson is out this week, but the fact that they may have sole possession of first place in the AFC West at the end of the day will motivate them enough. Plus, the Broncos could not stop me if I was running against them. Kansas City.

Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins - Miami has a chance to get their first win this week. They are coming off their bye week and will be playing at home. Still, I want to see that perfect season. Buffalo.

St. Louis Rams @ New Orleans Saints - Come on. I feel bad for Rams fans (which includes many of my family members), just an ugly year. Colston will have 2 TDs on the day. New Orleans.

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers - Cleveland can tie the Steelers for first place in the AFC North with a win this week. Yes, I am saying that in November. If this game was in Cleveland I would take the Browns no problem. But the Steelers are at home and their defense is better than that of the Browns. Betting man take the Browns because the Steelers are 9 1/2 point favorites. Pittsburgh.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans - I do not know what is up with the Jaguars, they are giving up yards like crazy lately. Tennessee in a nice divisional matchup. Tennessee.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins - The Redskins are looking to keep their playoff hopes alive, while Donovan McNabb and the Eagles are wondering where to eat after the game. Of course, McNabb can pull a McNabb and have a monster game all of a sudden. Washington.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens - The Bengals are a damn mess. They are one of those teams that you just look at and ask yourself, "WTF are they thinking?" Funny quote I read in an article this week, "When the Ravens want to throw it deep, they go to Steve McNair. He averages 5.5 yards per completion. When they want to keep it short, they go to Kyle Boller, who averages 5.4." Classic. Baltimore.

Detroit Lions @ Arizona Cardinals - This could be a dangerous game for the Lions who are coming off a blowout against the Broncos. Still, they find a way to win. Detroit.

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants - They played an entertaining game against each other in week 1 with the Cowboys winning. But this is a better Giants team than what the Cowboys saw early. Romo is going to have to be on the move because the Giants defensive line is solid. New York.

Chicago Bears @ Oakland Raiders - I am not picking the Raiders until they start playing JaMarcus Russell. It certainly would not hurt their chances or season. Chicago.

Indianapolis Colts @ San Diego Chargers - The Chargers are going to be pumped up for this one, coming off an ugly loss and this week playing during primetime. The Colts may have a hangover from their tough loss to the Patriots, but think they will bounce back. Peyton will be able to throw all over the field. Joseph Addai owns all. Indianapolis.

San Francisco @ Seattle Seahawks - Damn. Could ESPN have picked a better game for Monday night? This stinker is going to be hard for me to watch. Poor Niners fans, it looked so bright after the 2-0 start, but now have lost 6 straight. Johnnie Walker, say hello to your little friend. Seattle.

Countdown until I head to Oakland to watch the Colts play: 36 days. Percentage of chance that I will rock Colts gear: 0%.

Last week's record: 7-7.
Overall record: 58-40.

Week 9 Is Over

NFL week 9 ended today in an anti-clamatic contest to follow up the huge Colts-Pats contest.

It lived up to the hype. The Colts played like the defending Super Bowl champs for 52 minutes, then decided to give the game away in the final eight. To the Patriots credit they earned the victory by coming back from 10 points down on the road and against the Colts.

Colts receivers made uncharacteristic mistakes by dropping passes. Two that were huge. One by Tony Gonzalez in the end zone, and another with Reggie Wayne beating two defenders and letting the ball slip through his hands in what would have been a touchdown.

They also settled for field goals early in the game when they reached the red zone. Not going to get the "W" against a team like the Patriots when you let your opportunities slip away. I knew the Colts had a chance to win this game before it started and I was proved right.

The Colts defense held the Pats receivers in check for 52 minutes before letting Tom Brady dissect the backfield.

Tony Dungy and the Colts had this game in hand, but let the Pats take it from them. Good thing they will not meet again until January in the AFC Championship game because I think I would flip too many people out by my screaming and antics.

I wore myself out watching this game and ended up passed out on my little cousin's bed snoring my head off.

The consolation that I can take from this loss is that I had $50 on the Colts (+5) and walked away a little richer.

Quick hits on the rest of the games:
Donovan McNabb got the ball to Brian Westbrook a lot in their loss to Dallas, screw Tony Romo. LaMont Jordan is killing my fantasy team and will be cut after rushing for 10 yards in the Raiders loss to the Texans. Browns are 5-3 after downing the Seahawks on a game-winning FG in overtime. The Bucs shot some Cardinals. Jets fans should stop watching this season after blowing another game in an OT loss to the Redskins. New Orleans made me look foolish by saying that the Jaguars could slow down their offense. Adrian Peterson set an NFL record for single-game rushing yards in a game in the Vikings win over the Chargers, ouch (he was seen walking on water after the game). Brett Favre continues to make me watch Packers games as he looked like a 21-year-old in their win over the Chiefs. The Titans continue to stay right behind the Colts after winning at home versus Carolina. Lions are 6-2, let me say that again, the Detroit Lions are 6-2 after dominating the Broncos. Bengals continue to underachieve after losing to the Bills. The Falcons won this week's suck fest by beating the 49ers.

And you may already know by now, but the Steelers tore up the Ravens tonight. Ben Roethlisburlaksjfaer threw 5 TDs in the first half in the 38-7 victory. Their defense was stellar tonight, with James Harrison shining bright in front of the 75th anniversary players who were in attendance.

Sunday cannot come quick enough for me, as I will be attending my first NFL game to see the Colts take on the Chargers.

This week's record: 7-7
Overall record since week 3: 58-40

NFL Week 9 Picks

The weekend is finally upon us, and the biggest regular season NFL game in a decade is going to take place on Sunday at 4:15 PM ET on CBS. The media is deeming this game "Super Bowl XLII 1/2," but it should be called something else if they had put any thought into it.

The Colts and Patriots are clearly the top two teams in the NFL and are a step above all of the teams in the AFC. They WILL be meeting in January in the AFC Championship game. The winner will then head to Arizona for the "real" Super Bowl. So in essence, there will be three Super Bowls this year. Sunday, the AFC Championship game, and Colts/Pats v. NFC whipping boy.

I reworked the arithmetic and found that this game should be deemed "Super Bowl XLII 1/3" (patent pending, First To Third).

As always I used the opportunity to showcase my photoshop skills.

The breakdowns on this week's game may seem a little short, and for good reason. I am a Colts fan and am geeked up about Sunday, and could care less about the other games. (But do care about my nerd alert fantasy football players)

Onto the picks:

San Francisco 49ers @ Atlanta Falcons - The Falcons are a mess off and on the field. And the 49ers are making the Patriots look like geniuses (the Pats own the 49ers first-round pick in next year's draft). This is a "flip-a-coin" pick. Dedicated to my buddies who like the Niners. San Francisco.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Buffalo Bills - Bengals wake up for this one. JP Losman pissed me off in fantasy (why did I waste a draft pick on that bum?!?!). Cincinnati.

Denver Broncos @ Detroit Lions - Lions RB Kevin Jones is going to have another good day against the Broncos defense. Detroit is 3-0 at home this year, and Denver is on a short week. Detroit.

Green Bay Packers @ Kansas City Chiefs - One of the top NFC teams is losing this week, but it is not the Packers this week. Green Bay.

San Diego Chargers @ Minnesota Vikings - The Chargers are gaining some momentum each week, and will need it looking ahead to their matchup with the Colts. San Diego.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ New Orleans Saints - Yes, the Saints offense has looked good recently, but they are facing a tough Jaguars defense. Jacksonville.

Washington Redskins @ New York Jets - Kellen Clemens gets the start at QB over Pennington. Redskins looking to take out their frustrations from last week on the Jets. "You are a dick Bill Belichick" signs to be up all over the stadium. Washington.

Arizona Cardinals @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Bucs QB Jeff Garcia is going to bounce back from last week's performance. Plus, a Pirate can kill a Cardinal. Tampa Bay.

Carolina Panthers @ Tennessee Titans - The Titans running game is better than the Panthers right now, and that will be the difference. Vince Young, why did I draft you in fantasy as well?!?! Tennessee.

Seattle Seahawks @ Cleveland Browns - The Dawg Pound is the difference in this one. Derek Anderson was available to pick up but I kept Vince Young. What an idiot. Cleveland.

Houston Texans @ Oakland Raiders - Raider Nation can sleep good Sunday night, their team is going to win. No word yet on whether my Mom is going to rock her Raiders jersey on Sunday (she lives in Texas). Oakland.

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles - The sad state of Eagles coach Andy Reid is going to motivate his players. They will rally around their coach and "win one for the Gipper." The Cowboys are the top-tier team that I said is going to lose this week. Philadelphia.

Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers - The Steelers will be looking to create some space in the AFC North. Steelers offense is better. Pittsburgh.

New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts - This is it. Good vs. Evil. Man vs. Machine. November 4. I have had two dreams about this game in the last two days. In one, the Colts won by 3. Last night, I was actually at the game and Colts won by 1 with a game-winning field goal.

Offense - Sure, the Pats are putting up more points this year but they are lacking in one category that the Colts are striving in... the run game. Joseph Addai is a beast and can carry the Colts when opponents are shutting down the passing lanes. Also, the Colts are playing in a tougher division this year. Colts.

Defense - The Colts defensive has improved, and is a big reason why the Colts are on their current 11-game winning streak. The Pats, like always, have a strong defense, especially with Rodney Harrison lurking in the backfield. Patriots.

Coach - The evil mastermind vs. the lovable next door neighbor. Both men have kept their squad at the top of the AFC the last several years. One is running up the scoreboard, while the other used to run up the score. Draw.

The Colts have flown under the radar because of the Pats dominance this year. Every time you watch the Pats you have to ask yourself, "how do you stop these guys?". The Colts are going to use disrespect towards the defending champions as their fuel. The Pats are using "spygate" and last year's loss in the AFC Championship game to the Colts, as their fuel.

All the hype is well worth it.
Colts.

Last week's record: 10-3
Overall record (since week 3): 51-33

NFL Week 8 Almost Over

NFL week 8 concludes tonight with the Green Bay Packers visiting the Denver Broncos.

My head was killing me yesterday as I woke up, and I had to "think" at 12:30 p.m. to draft my fantasy basketball team. The NFL games that I saw on TV did not help me get through my day. And where the hell was my night game?!?!

Blow outs, sloppy games and one game on local television at 10 a.m. I guess that is the price you pay when you are already looking ahead to week 9 (yes, November 4).

The Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots both won their games, meaning two things:
1. Both Peyton Manning and Tom Brady are the first QBs to beat all 31 teams.
2. Both teams are undefeated heading into their matchup in the RCA Dome.

The Colts beat the Carolina Panthers 31-7, while the Patriots embarrassed the Washington Redskins, 52-7. Some are accusing the Patriots of running up the score on opponents, especially after this week's antics.

With the game already in hand, the Patriots elected to go for a fourth-and-1 on the Redskins 7-yard line instead of kicking a field goal for a mere three points.

Here is what Bill Belichick had to say about that situation:

"What do you want us to do, kick a field goal?" he said.

Stay classy Emperor Palpatine Bill Belichick.

It is obvious these Patriots want to roll up all their opponents this year. That is the Belichick we have come to know. Cross him and you will pay! I knew it would get ugly as soon as the reports came out that the Pats were part of "spygate 2007"; a sleepy giant was woken.

More on the week 9 to come...

Quick hits on week 8:
LenDale White carried the Titans over the Raiders, as Vince Young was slowed by injury. The Rams helped the Browns win their first road win. Minnesota's pass defense allowed McNabb to look good for a week in the Eagles win. The Bengals still continue to underachieve in a loss to the Steelers. Miami continued their perfect season by losing to the Giants in London. Lions are 5-2 after beating the Bears, again; Griese still sucks. Jeff Garcia's interceptions are too costly for the Bucs as they lose to the Jags. Buffalo Bills beat the New York Jets in the "who cares?" game. Brees finds Colston three times in the end zone against the Niners.

Picks results coming tomorrow.

NFL Week 8 Picks

NFL week 8 is upon us and it comes with a game being played overseas in London.

London?
Yes, London. You know, fish, chips, cup o' tea. Bad food, worse weather. Mary fu**in' Poppins. London!

The New York Giants and Miami Dolphins will be playing in London to a sellout crowd. Cool if it is a preseason game, but I do not like a regular season game played overseas. It throws everything off for each team that participates. Practices, food, beers, and the travel are all different.

There is a reason that there is futbol in Europe, and a reason there is football in America... they are where they flourish. That is like Manchester United coming over here for a match in the US. Sure, it would sellout, but the excitement would die after the 90-minute match.

*Yawn* Can we move onto next week's Colts-Pats matchup?

Anyway... this week's picks:

Indianapolis Colts @ Carolina Panthers - With their big matchup on the horizon, look for the Colts to use this game as a tuneup. No let down this week. Manning will officially be the first QB to beat 31 teams, take that Brady (he plays a later game)! Indianapolis.

Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears - The Bears showed me some life last week by coming back on the Eagles, and making me look foolish for picking Philly. And the Lions have lost both their contests that have been on the road. They are looking to sweep the season series against the Bears. They actually showed the run last week as they prevailed over the Bucs. Detroit.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals - Yes, yes, the Bengals came from behind last week. But look who they were playing... the New York Jets. Steelers will be sharper this week than last, and RB Willie Parker plays well against the Bengals. Pittsburgh.

New York Giants v. Miami Dolphins in London - No Ronnie Brown for the Dolphins? Miami, say hello to 0-8. And thank you Brown for throwing my fantasy football season out the door... I had you in two leagues! Bum. New York.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Minnesota Vikings - This is one of those "Ugh" games that I hate to pick. Both offenses suck this season, and you never know what you are going to get. Eagle fan, miss Jeff Garcia? Minnesota.

Cleveland Browns @ St. Louis Rams - At first I kind of wanted to make this an upset game and be able to point my finger and say, "Haha, I told you it was an upset," based on the return of Steven Jackson. But then I remembered that the Rams O-Line sucks and that the Browns can actually score. Cleveland.

Oakland Raiders @ Tennessee Titans - I love how Oakland fan was proclaiming, "first place AFC West!" early this season. Well at least they got their kicks in. Vince Young is back and hopefully he makes me look smart by keeping him on the bench on my fantasy team. Tennessee.

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets - Trent Edwards if the starter now, and JP Losman may have to think about the prospect of being on another team. Too bad the Jets do not go with their backup QB. Chad Pennington will be starting again. Buffalo.

Houston Texans @ San Diego Chargers - The Chargers will have a little more motivation this week with the fires threatening players and fans homes this past week. L.T. had to evacuate his home, he lives by MLB pitcher Steve Trachsel. I know Steve's brother, Pat Trachsel, through my buddy BQ and Amir. Pat sometimes invites BQ... oh nevermind, I will shut up now. San Diego.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - With David Garrard out for a few weeks, expect to see a lot of the Jaguars running game. I do not like backup QB Quinn Gray's chances on the road. Go Jeff Garcia. Tampa Bay.

Washington Redskins @ New England Patriots - Tom Brady will be out for blood once he sees that Peyton Manning is the first QB to beat 31 NFL teams. He will throw five TDs to get back at Manning. New England.

New Orleans Saints @ San Francisco 49ers - Drew Brees and Reggie Bush are starting to play well, while the 49ers are struggling under their first-year offensive coordinator. New Orleans.

Green Bay Packers @ Denver Broncos - Denver is not an easy place to play, and in Brett Favre's only appearance there he threw three interceptions in a 31-10 loss. Green Bay's running game has been non-existent, but they can run on Denver's defense. This is tough for me.... Packers, Denver, Packers, Denver... I am going to flip a coin... Heads, Packers. Tails, Denver. Denver.

Week 7 record: 8-6
Overall record (started in week 3): 41-30

Did You Know?

This week's edition brings you a "Did you know?" regarding Peyton Manning and Tom Brady (who sadly have become good friends).

Manning and Brady both have a chance to make history with the same feat this coming Sunday in their respective games. Both players can become the first QBs to beat 31 NFL teams, something Brett Favre has yet to accomplish. (Side note: although Favre does have a chance to join them if he beats Kansas City next week. Assuming Manning and Brady win.)

So you see, as much as we would like to look ahead to the Colts-Patriots matchup, we have a reason to watch both squads this weekend.

Does anyone else want to see Brady and Manning hate each other? I hate the fact that I love Manning but he does not hate Brady like I do. Kill, kill, kill.

What Patriots' Fans Lack

A sense of humor. The following occurred last night in the Colts-Jaguars Monday night football game, and I must say the guy is hilarious.



At first he acts like he is non-chalant about being on camera, and then bam! He pulls out a premade prop for all the world to see.

The reason I picked on the Pats fans is because KSK wrote a genius article about how to be an insufferable a**hole s***head f**kface fan of Boston-area sports teams . I agree with everything that is in the article and could have contributed to it as well.

I am jealous that I did not think about writing that before them, but I have to give them their proper due.

Setting Up For November 4

NFL week 7 officially ended this evening, with Peyton Manning and the Colts defeating their divisional foe Jacksonville Jaguars, 29-7. The Colts have started the season 6-0 for the third straight season.

There were questions on whether the Colts would be able to stop the Jaguars ground game that ran all over them last year in a 44-17 win for the Jags. I think the Colts responded well, holding the Jaguars to 117 rushing yards and one touchdown.

If the Colts beat the Panthers, and the Patriots beat the Redskins in week 8, it will set up a big AFC game of two undefeated teams. The Pats are being tagged as the team to beat, while the Colts are looking to get respect as the defending Super Bowl champs.

The win for the Colts sets a blueprint that is all too familiar in the AFC South: chasing the Colts. Indianapolis dominated this contest, in a game deemed to be a measuring stick for Jacksonville and how close they are to the Colts.

Tony Dungy said the 2007 version of the Colts are better and faster than the 2006 version, and I believe him.

Bob Sanders is a beast. Last year, Sanders was sorely missed by the Colts defense for much of the season and we saw his impact in the playoffs. He came up with huge tackles, pass deflections, and one interception against the Jaguars.

November 4, mark you calendars. You are going to want to watch the game with me on that day, I promise.

As for my week 7 picks... I have had better weeks.

Week 7 record: 8-6
Overall record (started in week 3): 41-30

College football side note: I have to apologize to the UCLA Bruins for picking Cal to dismantle them. I doubted the Bruins mainly because Patrick Cowan was not starting the game. To my surprise he did, and helped the Bruins keep their undefeated conference record intact. It was a great game largely in part because I was there. College football games are the best to attend so get your butt to a game near you.

Week 7 Almost Over

I normally give my summary of the NFL week after the Monday night game, but this week is different because the Indianapolis Colts are playing at the Jacksonville Jaguars today. They get their own post.

The media's favorite team, New England Patriots, dismantled the Miami Dolphins. Tom Brady, you heard about this guy right? Well, he threw 6 TDs on Sunday and is on pace to throw 62 on the year. The backup QB for the Patriots scared Bill Belichick and had to send Brady back into the game in the middle of the fourth quarter.

Brady immediately went back in after Matt Cassell threw an interception that was returned for a TD and cut the deficit to a mere 21 points. How did Brady respond? With an "eff you" TD to make the score 49-21.

The sad part in the game? Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown went down with a knee injury and looks like he will be out for the rest of the season. He was the only bright spot for the Dolphins this year, and more importantly, he was my main man on my fantasy football team. Goodbye fantasy football season.

Even my favorite lounge singer, Phil Shane, knows what important event that is occuring on November 4. Colts v. Patriots.

Quick shots:
Willis McGahee returned to Buffalo and his team lost. Jeff Garcia fumbled the game away to the Lions. Saints win the suck-off fest against the Falcons. Giants have one five in a row. The Redskins squeezed by the Cardinals (Neil Rackers missed a FG as time expired; thanks Rackers, you cost me points). Rob Bironas can kick FGs; he kicked a record 8 FGs to lead the Titans to victory. The Bengals won a game (thank the Jets)! The Chiefs are in first place in the AFC West after winning a close game with the Raiders (ninth straight over them). Dallas got a boost from their special teams to help them over the Vikings. St. Louis joined Miami at 0-7. The Broncos almost gave the game back to the Steelers before kicking getting a game-winning FG as time expired.

And the Chicago Bears-Philadelphia Eagles matchup.
Brian Griese is trying to make sure Rex Grossman stays on the bench, as he guided the Bears from their own 3-yard line on their final drive for a TD to take a 19-16 lead with nine seconds left.

The interesting part? Griese called all but one of the plays on the final drive because the audio in his helmet was not working. Take that Grossman.

Be sure to catch tonight's game. Week 7 picks record coming tomorrow (about .500 on the week, ugh).

NFL Week 7 Picks

Let me try this again....

It is time, it is time my friends. Week 7 NFL picks, the fifth installment of weekly picks in the NFL season by First to Third (started in week 3).

Games of the week:
Kansas City v. Oakland - With San Diego looking like they are ready to act like the 14-2 team they are, this game is important for the these AFC West squads to stay close to the Chargers in the standings.

Houston v. Tennessee - Why is this game important you ask? Same reason as above. If either of these teams want a chance in the AFC South then they must win their division matchups. Sure, they are chasing Indianapolis and Jacksonville, but you never know what might happen.

Indianapolis v. Jacksonville - 5-0 v. 4-1. AFC South matchup. Monday night football. Last time they met the Jaguars ran all over the Colts. This is the big daddy of the games this week.

Now onto the picks:

Baltimore Ravens @ Buffalo Bills - Kyle Boller will start for the Ravens and they are 2-0 in his starts this year. Willis McGahee will return to Buffalo to face his former team and try to make a statement. Baltimore.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Detroit Lions - Both running games are not great for these teams, leaving a lot of responsibility on the quarterbacks. Bucs QB Jeff Garcia has not thrown an interception this year (please do not let me jinx him, he is on my fantasy team) and that will be the difference in this game. He is more careful with the ball and will guide the Bucs to victory. Tampa Bay.

Tennesse Titans @ Houston Texans - One of my "games of the week" and it might not include a certain Madden '08 coverboy, Vince Young. I am banking on the fact that Young will not be playing in this game when I make this pick. If he did play I would have no problem picking the Titans. Houston.

New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins - My goodness. 6-0 v. 0-6. All I hope is that Ronnie Brown scores a pair of touchdowns on Sunday. Laurence Maroney, you are a wuss, play already. I remember when the Dolphins upset the Patriots in 2004, 29-28. I was at a Friday's enjoying a cold beverage with my girlfriend at the time. I was watching the game while she was talking my head off; I, of course nodded my head and wrinkled my eyebrows to show some interest in what she was saying. Needless to say, I had no problem dropping $100 on drinks that night after the game. I was happy. New England.

San Francisco 49ers @ New York Giants - The Giants are playing like they want to get the attention of NFL analysts, who were previously enamored with the Cowboys. Well, I think the Giants are making their case after winning four consecutive games following an 0-2 start. Brandon Jacobs, just get in the end zone once. New York.

Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints - I am not ready to proclaim that the Saints offense is back, but last week was a start. Byron Leftwich will be the starting QB for Atlanta, but their offensive line will remain the same. That is a problem, especially with Leftwich starting. New Orleans.

Arizona Cardinals @ Washington Redskins - The Cardinals may be forced to start either Tim Rattay or Tim Hasselbeck in place of Kurt Warner; both Tim's cannot carry this squad over the Redskins. The good news? Tim Hasselbeck's wife, The View star Elizabeth Hasselbeck, took an early maternity leave in hopes of seeing her husband play football. Washington.

New York Jets @ Cincinnati Bengals - Ugh. Where is the option where I pick neither team? I like the Bengals offense better than the Jets. But my cousin Gabe's football team can throw up 30 points on the Bengals defense right now. I hate to pick them, but...Cincinnati.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders - The Chiefs were able to get some points on the board thanks largely to the aforementioned defense of the Bengals. This week they face the Raiders in Oakland. Raiders running back LaMont Jordan is going to have a good game, I can just feel it. Oakland.

Minnesota Vikings @ Dallas Cowboys - Adrian Peterson will face a tough Dallas run defense. Dallas running backs will face a tough Minnesota run defense. Vikings QB Tavaris Jackson cannot throw like Cowboys QB Tony Romo. Dallas.

Chicago Bears @ Philadelphia Eagles - If Chicago wants a chance to compete in this game, they better have figured out what is wrong with their run defense. Both teams have been inconsistent this year so this can be anyone's game. Chunky soup... wait Brian Urlacher also endorses the stuff; well Donovan McNabb is better than Brian Griese. Philadelphia.

St. Louis Rams @ Seattle Seahawks - Rams QB Marc Bulger and his broken ribs will be playing this Sunday to try and break a six-game losing streak for the Rams. The Seahawks have been horrible as of late. I think the Dolphins need company at 0-7. Seattle.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos - The Steelers are getting some offensive firepower back this week following a bye week. Flying under the radar so far, the Steelers are 4-1 coming into this matchup, looking to stay in the hunt for the best record in the AFC. Pittsburgh.

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars - DO NOT MISS THIS GAME. It will be as good as advertised, wait, this isn't the "showdown in Dallas"? Who cares then? Trust me. This will be a great game between the AFC South rivals. The Jags have won four straight, while the Colts are coming off a much needed bye week. Expect the Colts to have Joseph Addai, Marvin Harrison, and Bob Sanders back this week. Indianapolis.

Week 6 record: 9-4
Overall record (started in week 3): 33-24

Enjoy your Sunday football, and do not forgot to catch Cal beating up on UCLA on Saturday.

NFL Week 5 Picks

I AM moving over .500 this week on my NFL picks in my overall standings. Right now the record stands at 14-16, but that is okay, it is early. So hell has to freeze over for me to stay under .500.

I got a new $12 toy accessory for my roadtrip grill today, so I am in a chipper mood. Breakfast for everyone!


Anyway, time for some picks:

Miami Dolphins @ Houston Texans - The Dolphins run defense has been horrible this year, and that is why they lost to the Raiders last week. Houston backup RB Ron Dayne is going to have a good day at home (I knew I should not have dropped him in my fantasy league). Houston.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Kansas City Chiefs - As an avid watcher of the AFC South, I know that the Jaguars do not play well after their bye week. I like the defense of both teams, but like the receiving weapons of the Chiefs a little more. Kansas City.

Cleveland Browns @ New England Patriots - The Patriots look insanely good right now... *chunks coming up*... and looked primed to move 5-0 going into their matchup at Dallas in week 6. Patriots at home, good night now. New England.

Carolina Panthers @ New Orleans Saints - A bye week might be just what the Saints needed. The Panthers may be without Jake Delhomme, and his replacement David Carr was unable to find receiver Steve Smith enough to make a difference in last week's loss. New Orleans.

New York Jets @ New York Giants - The rejuvenated Giants defense looks to make the Jets offense a living hell. This is my favorite version of the Clippers-Lakers in the NFL regarding home field advantage. Jets are the Clippers, Giants the Lakers. Giants.

Seattle Seahawks @ Pittsburgh Steelers - This is going to be a good game and I will not be mad if I pick this one wrong. Both teams are 3-1 and have both shown strong defensive efforts so far this season. I am going on the safe side and picking the home team. Pittsburgh.

Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams - Kurt Warner returns to St. Louis to make Rams fans wish they still had them on the sidelines. The Rams will be starting Gus Frerotte in place of injured Marc Bulger. The Rams defense made my uncle want to cry last week. Arizona.

Atlanta Falcons @ Tennessee Titans - Vince Young and the Titans look to continue their good start against Joey Harrington and the Falcons. Young better run for 3 TDs and throw for one more. Tennessee.

Detroit Lions @ Washington Redskins - I chose against the Lions last week even though I wanted to pick them (damn you Griese!). John Kitna is throwing the ball all over the field, but may be without rookie receiver Calvin Johnson again this week. The Redskins will be without a key receiver in Santana Moss and may have limited play from Clinton Portis. Detroit.

Tampa Bay Bucs @ Indianapolis Colts - The Bucs have quietly moved to 3-1 and may pose a threat to the Colts if some key guys are out. Joseph Addai, Marvin Harrison, and Bob Sanders may all be out for the game on Sunday. If Addai and Sanders are out, I can see the Bucs winning this one. But the Colts will probably have one of them. Indianapolis.

San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos - Chargers, Chargers. What am I going to do with you? I pick you each week and you lose on me. I think Norv Turner will finally wise up and give the ball to LT in the second half. The Broncos run defense is not that strong, as seen last week when the Colts ran wild on them. San Diego.

Baltimore Ravens @ San Francisco 49ers - No Alex Smith and the Ravens defense in town means trouble for the Niners. Baltimore.

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers - Packers have Brett Favre and the Bears have a two-headed monster in Grossman-Griese; and when I say monster I mean it in a bad way. Lambeau, national TV, division game. Green Bay.

Dallas Cowboys @ Buffalo Bills - The Cowboys look like the top dog in the NFC and that makes me sick. Dallas.