Sports Zone Blog

Jeremyball - Random Notes + Team USA

jbrunner — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 23:21:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Champions Challenge

I hate golf. But its still fun to witness Johnny Miller's tournament up close. Yeah its fun to check out the megastars: Nicklaus, Sorenstam, Johnny(if you ask him). But I always like to follow the other guys on the course. Some of my favorites from the past: Kenny G, Vince Gill, Alice Cooper, Steve Young, and of course, the legendary Bill Murray. I mean, would you seriously have guessed that Kenny G could outdrive Alice Cooper? Not me. The best part of watching Young wasn't his game, but his constant mockery of Danny Ainge, a fellow BYU legend, and not nearly as good a golfer. And I spent a day trailing Bill Murray. The poor guy has to deliver one-liners the entire time, and he did will class and dignity. Okay, maybe not that last part.

This year Jazz guard Deron Williams was out on the links, showing his stuff. I don't think he'll be joining the tour after his career is over or anything, but he's pretty good. Well, compared to me and my 63 handicap, anybody looks good.

Team USA

I just read an article on the upcoming Olympics. They were talking about who will make up Team U.S.A. this summer. As usual, I have my thoughts.

ESPN.com projecter roster:

Carmello Anthony, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, LeBron James, Jason Kidd, Michael Redd, Dwyane Wade, Deron Williams, Tyson Chandler, and Chris Paul.

Somt good picks, some omissions. Time for my team:

LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, Ron Artest, Deron Williams, Josh Smith, Kobe Bryant, Tyson Chandler, Allen Iverson, Amare Stoudamire, Carmello Anthony, and Kevin Martin.

Now four of my five differing picks weren't actually on the senior roster, so they can't actually be selected, but when have I played by the rules.

Out: Boozer, Bosh, Kidd, Redd, and Wade.

In: Smith, Artest, Iverson, Stoudamire, and Martin

I have beefed the team up with some serious defensive stoppers(Smith, Artest, Iverson), and they will make the difference against the stiff international competition.

By the way, here's my starters: Deron Williams(early shot clock PG), Chris Paul(late shot clock PG), LeBron James(Scorer), Ron Artest(Stopper), and Dwight Howard(shot blocker).

We'll have two defensive studs on the floor at all time. The second unit will be headed by Josh Smith and Tyson Chandler, while Kobe, A.I. and Amare round out the crew. Kevin Martin will fill in the honorary Christian Laettner just-happy-to-be-here role.

Make this your team, and set up a spot in your trophy case for a gold medal right now.

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Jeremyball - Best Player in the World?

jbrunner — Mon, 26 May 2008 21:38:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

So what's the deal? Who is the best basketball player in the world? Some folks will automatically give you Kobe or LeBron, but I have always gone with different names like Manu Ginobili or Pau Gasol. Why you ask, well these guys perform well against the best competition every night in the NBA, then they really step up their game at the only truly international competitions. The Olympics are a traveshamockery. But they are also the greatest assembly of basketball talent anywhere. And as you know by getting lectured to by crusty white sportswriters for years, these foreign teams play a team game unlike anything played by the Americans.

So Argentina beat the Americans in the 2004 games, I liked Manu as the best player in the world. Then Spain won the World Championships in '06, so I liked Gasol, even though I had a soft spot for Jorge Garbajosa.

I have perfected my system at long last and I'm ready to unleash my ratings. Okay, its not perfect. This system is based on success both in the NBA and international competition. So Kobe Bryant is nowhere to be found. Problem? Perhaps. But the system goes back five years, and Kobe has no high finishes in international comps, and no trips out of the first round of the NBA Playoffs in that time period.

10. Andres Nocioni

9. Pau Gasol

8. Shawn Marion

7. Amare Stoudamire

6. Dirk Nowitski

5. Tony Parker

4. Dwyane Wade

3. LeBron James

2. Tim Duncan

1. Manu Ginobili

There you go. Now all debates on the topic have been settled. Of course, soon I will be able to factor in the '08 Playoffs and the '08 Olympics, and then you just might see Kobe.

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Jeremyball - Grading the NFL Draft

jbrunner — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:56:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

If you've ever read my stuff, you know that I think the t.v. coverage of the NFL Draft is a sham. Its too long(even with this year's shortened times), and the 'analysis' is too predictable. Any team that takes skill players early gets praised, while the squads that focus on the offensive and defensive lines get panned. All of this is ridiculous of course, there's no way to know how good a player will be in five years. So the 'experts' just like the teams that drafted guys they knew, specifically offensive skill guys. It bothers me every year and this year I'm doing something about it. I have joined the fray, I am breaking down the draft like only someone who hasn't spent hours studying it can. Lazily.

1. Atlanta Falcons

The Dirty Birds do their best to wash their hands of the Michael Vick era. They are the big winners for me, but if Matt Ryan is a bust, they go from #1 to #32.

2. New York Jets

A team with a punchless offense and not much defense improves both quickly.

3. Kansas City Chiefs

Any time you can get the best player in the draft at #5, you kinda gotta do that, don't you?

4. New Orleans Saints

They still have Drew Brees and Reggie Bush on offense, so they beefed up their 'D'.

5. Arizona Cardinals

Another team that needed defensive help, and got it.

6. Detroit Lions

Having the Loins rated this high is surely a sign of the apocalypse. But since they didn't take a WR in round one for the 19th straight year, I'll give them a break.

7. San Francisco 49ers

Good role players.

8. Houston Texans

Line help is never a bad thing.

9. Minnesota Vikings

The Vikes traded away some of their picks for the NFL's reigning sackmaster before the draft. This will turn out to be a good move, if Jared Allen plays well and stays sober.

10. Indiapolis Colts

These guys don't need much.

11. Miami Dolphins

OL help is not a bad thing. John Beck will need it. Wait, scratch that. Chad Henne will need it.

12. New England Patriots

Let me get this straight. After that SB performance, the Pats didn't draft a single offensive lineman. Good luck with all that.

13. St. Louis Rams

Chris Long = no Howie Long(and also no Glenn Dorsey)

14. Carolina Panthers

They start with a running back, didn't they just take DeAngelo Williams? Whatever.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars

All the 'experts' lit up the Jags for their selections of pass-rushing defensive linemen early. Didn't the Giants just win the Super Bowl with a decent team with great pass rushers?

16. Oakland Raiders

Darren McFadden is stud, but who will block for him.

17. Cincinnati Bengals

As usual, an unbelievable collection of high-character guys.

18. Buffalo Bills

Not good.

19. Denver Broncos

Bad.

20. Chicago Bears

Worse.

21. Baltimore Ravens

Two early skill players = desperation.

22. Philadelphia Eagles

Abysmal.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers

Dung.

24. Green Bay Packers

Two quarterbacks? I thought they already had their guy. Uh-oh.

25. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Crap.

26. San Diego Chargers

Crap-tastic.

27. New York Giants

No offensive linemen? Didn't they watch the Pats in the Super Bowl? Oh yeah.

28. Cleveland Browns

Your first pick is from U.N.L.V. = Not good

29. Seattle Seahawks

Resident Hawk fan Kent Rupe filled me in as to just how bad Seattle's draft was. Pretty bad.

30. Tennessee Titans

Their GM should be fired for this disaster.

31. Dallas Cowboys

Their GM should be fired, and then publicly humiliated, for this disaster.

32. Washington(Offensive nickname omitted)

Its the kiss of death when so many draft gurus loved your picks. Plus they committed the golden sin of draft day: Taking offensive skill players with your first three picks. Ask the Lions how that works out.

Agree/Disagree? Post below

Jeremyball: NBA Playoffs meet the WWE(WWF to us old-schoolers)

jbrunner — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 21:20:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Its that time of year again. The NBA Playoffs are here. This is the best time of year for Jazz fans(except for 2004-2006). We get to see if all that hard work and blah blah blah dedication blah blah determination finally pay off. Basically its the best time of the year for cliches. But that's not why you clicked here. You clicked here because you saw the letters W, W and E, so I guess I had better deliver:

Here you go, I compare each remaining NBA Playoff team to a pro wrestler. Enjoy:

Boston Celtics - Ric Flair

I'm not calling the Celtics old, I'm just making paralells between the 16-time world champs and the 16-time world champ(at least according to Wikipedia(which is never wrong)). And their three-headed monster is not unlike the four horsemen, although it would be better for them, and more symmetrical if Boston gets a nice game every time out from one of their second-tier players: Leon Powe, Rajon Rondo, Glenn Davis, Sam Cassell, Eddie House, Kendrick Perkins or James Posey. Those dudes are like the Arn Andersons and the Tully Blanchards in this scheme.

Atlanta Hawks - The Brooklyn Brawler

You remember the Brawler, don't you? His career record was somewhere in that Washington Generals neighborhood. He was one of those guys they trotted out there every week to get demolished by a star wrestler. That's the Hawks. Although, if we are doing individuals, Josh Smith is definitely the Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka of the playoffs.

Cleveland Cavaliers - The Rock

Or I guess you could just say that LeBron James is the Rock. He combines once-in-a-generation talent with charisma. Both guys are filled with crossover appeal, and LeBron could follow Dwayne Johnson to Hollywood someday.

Washington Wizards - Lex Luger/Sting

They always seem to be there, but they're never the main attraction. Kind of like the Wiz. Side note: Lex Luger once went to Green Bay Packers camp, so you'd think I would like him. But no, he's a tool.

Detroit Pistons - The Undertaker

Their/his style of play is just depressing. Lets just move on.

Philadelphia 76ers - The Genius

Never a real contender but the Sixers(and especially Andre Miller) are as basketball-smart as you can find. Plus, anytime you can work the legendary Leaping Lanny Poffo into a story, don't you have to do that.

Orlando Magic - Shawn Michaels

A contender with an outside shot, thanks to their secret weapon(Sweet Chin Music/3 Pointers). But you could also make a case for Dwight Howard as the Kevin Nash of the playoffs. The biggest and most talented guy out there. And what if the broadcast crews start calling Howard the 'Big Sexy'? Now that would be funny, especially if you consider Howard's off-court reputation(choir-boy).

Toronto Raptors - The Fabulous Rougeau Brothers

The only Canadian tag-team goes with the only Canadian NBA team. Plus the Raptors have no shot at the title this year, kind of like the Fab Rouge never had a title shot. But their star gets his own identity as well, Chris Bosh is my answer to Psycho Sid. All that talent, and yet, they never quite lived up to their potential(at least not yet).

David Stern - Mr. McMahon

Now I'm not saying David Stern is a villain...well, you can ask the Suns and/or Sonics fans about that.

L.A. Lakers - Hulk Hogan

The obnoxious yellow color. The Hollywood connection. Their status as an all-time great and all-time great franchise. They even both have their great controversy: the Lakers had the Kobe in Colorado situation, while the Hulkster lived through nasty steroid hearings way before baseball made it cool. Its a match made in heaven, or Hollywood.

Denver Nuggets - Randy Savage

I fought off the temptation(for obvious reasons) to label these guys as Bad News Brown. No, they're more like the Macho Man: supremely talented, completely insane, and hey look, they're taking on Hogan(Macho's longtime rival). Plus don't forget that both Macho and A.I. put out rap albums over the course of their career. Both were quite memorable, for their own reasons.

Utah Jazz - ??

This was, by far, the hardest pick for me. Being my favorite team, I wanted to pair them up with my all-time favorite wrestler, the Ultimate Warrior.(If only the Jazz had a steroid controversy, then they'd be a natural fit with the 'Anabolic Warrior') It makes sense to go with a gritty grappler, one that has been through tough battles like a Mick Foley or a Rickey 'the Dragon' Steamboat. But the Jazz are legitimate title contenders, so it has to be a higher-quality wrestler. Screw it, I'm going with 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin. Sure, he's a mismatch in many ways. But he is tough, talented and championship caliber, just like the Jazz.

Houston Rockets - Mick Foley

If Yao was playing, you could just go Orient Express and be done with it. But without the big guy, its a little trickier, and who would play Mr. Fuji. No, the Rockets can play in a variety of styles and tempos, much like Foley. When its time to get dirty, Houston can play Mankind. When its more of a finesse game, they are more Dude Love. Just not at a championship level.

New Orleans Hornets - Rowdy Roddy Piper

I'll assign the most overrated wrestler of all time to the Hornets, who I still refuse to consider as serious contenders. Seriously, I just never got Piper. He was intense, but just couldn't cut an interview like the Hulkster, or the Rock or even the Macho Man. Meanwhile, I like to compare Chris Paul to Rey Mysterio Jr. How are both guys so tiny, and yet so good?

Dallas Mavericks - The Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase

What can I say, for a long time I enjoyed the Mavs because they had my favorite(Michael Finley) and 2nd favorite(Devin Harris) players. But with the terrible Jason Kidd trade, I am allowed to hate on the Mavs just like they deserve. Everybody has a price. Just ask Mark Cuban(Bobby 'the Brain' Heenan?). He's got the highest payroll in the NBA by a wide margin. Too bad for him, money can't buy no titles.

San Antonio Spurs - Bret 'The Hitman' Hart

To be honest, I just don't get it. The WWE went through a five-year period where Bret Hart was usually the champ. Seriously? Could we find a champion with less charisma? Is that possible? Yup. I've found him. He lives in San Antonio and his name is Tim Duncan. And does that make Ginobili Jim 'the' Anvil Neidhart? I hope so.

Phoenix Suns - Triple H

A serious contender for years, but was there ever a point where he/they were really the best? Probably not, so the Suns fall here. But the team is stacked with personalities: Shaq is Andre the Giant, Amare Stoudamire is Scott Hall, and lets assign Chris Jehrico to Steve Nash.

Now time for my playoff pick. Hulk Hogan over Shawn Michaels in 7.

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Jeremyball - Kansas, Memphis Save Final Four

jbrunner — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 21:30:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Thank goodness. For a second there I thought we were bound for one of those boring final fours. You know, the kind where the two(perceived) best teams meet for the title, like North Carolina over Illinois a few years ago.

And then we got stuck with an unprecedented four number one seeds in the final four. But then Memphis and Kansas injected some life into the tourney with big wins over everybody's two picks to take the title. Seriously, how many people in your work bracket picked anybody other than UNC and UCLA? From every thing I saw, about 75% of all entries picked one of those two teams. Lame city.

Next year, please do something different. Look at the three seeds. Pick the one with the best record from a major(BCS) conference to go all the way. Then you can grab the three other one seeds so you'll still score well. Just do it. You'll thank me later. You may not win, but at least you'll improve your karma, plus you weren't going to win with UNC over UCLA anyways, thanks to the 20 other people in the pool who had the same thing(only they didn't have that gut-feeling you did about Cornell over Stanford).

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Jeremyball - The bad guys win

jbrunner — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 03:46:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

"Now you see that evil will always triumph, because good is dumb." - Dark Helmet-Spaceballs

I am depressed. Its my favorite time of year. March Madness rules. But not this year. This is the year where that jerk in your office pool is finally right. You know the guy. The dude who picks all four number one seeds. Well that guy is right this year. This stinks.

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 23:24:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 1-1(50%)

Against-the-Spread:1-1(50%)

Playoff Total:7-3(70%)

Playoff ATS: 7-2(77%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 3-0(100%)

Well that was dissapointing. As a Packer fan, I'd hate for Brett Favre's career to end with him laying a egg in the NFC Title Game. But the Giants were better all day, they deserved to win. Now the Patriots really didn't deserve to win, with Tom Brady throwing three picks. But the banged-up Chargers couldn't get anything going either. I wonder if they would have been better served with Billy Volek at QB, I think he's almost as good as Rivers when both are healthy. And with Rivers limping, I would have gone with Volek. Enough second guessing.

New England(16-0) vs. NY Giants(11-5)

The line on this game as of now is Pats -11.5. It started(in some places) at 14. That is quite a move for just two days of action. As is tradition with every year, I will make my prediction in way too much detail. If you want to skip the blow-by-blow, go to the very end to get my pick.

1st Quarter

The Patriots strike first. Brady finds Kevin Faulk out of the backfield for a 10 yard touchdown. They also strike second. New England quickly gets the ball back and Faulk scores his second T.D. of the day on a 97 yard run. The Giants cut into that 14-0 deficit, on a 3 yard touchdown pass from Manning to Amani Toomer. A Pats penalty on the XP leads to a Brandon Jacobs 2 point conversion to make it 14-8. Then the Giants get on the board again, this time Eli looks deep and finds Plexico Burress for a 55 yard score. It ends up as the highest scoring first quarter in postseason history. Giants 15, Pats 14

2nd Quarter

The defenses finally settle in. The Giants slow down the New England offense and hold them to a field goal on the first drive. New York gets its only score of the quarter on a 36 yard T.D. scamper by Brandon Jacobs. Just before the half, Tom Brady runs a vintage final minute drive to set up another field goal. Giants 22, Pats 20

3rd Quarter

Another good quarter for the defenses. A long punt return sets up a field goal for the Giants, but that is all. Tom Caughlin's face finally thaws out from the Frozen Tundra. Giants 25, Pats 20

4th Quarter

The offenses continue to struggle, but late in the game the Pats get the ball and you know what that means. Tom Brady leads New England down the field quickly, a little too quickly. Brady finds Wes Welker behind the defense for a 48 yard touchdown. But he leaves Eli Manning and the Giants 1:41 to retake the lead. Fortunately for the Pats, Eli remembers he is Eli, and quickly throws the game-killing interception.

And since its the only game its my Take-it-to-Wendover-Lock-of-the-Week: Pats 27, Giants(+11.5) 25

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 19:14:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner
Last week: 2-2(50%)
Against-the-Spread: 2-1(67%)
Playoff total: 6-2(75%)
Playoff ATS: 6-1(85%)
Playoff Lock: 2-0

I continue my hot-pickage in the playoffs. In a side note. The Georgia Bulldogs have captured our fictional national championship, beating LSU in the finals. Thanks to all the voters, you have changed history.

San Diego(11-5) at New England(16-0)
No way the Pats blow their perfect season against the Chargers. Remember when they dominated SD in week 2? Well, the Chargers can't forget it, no matter how hard they try. But they won't cover: Its my take-it-to-Wendover-Lock-of-the-Week: Pats 14, Bolts(+13.5) 7
Pats will win but Chargers will cover, write it down.

NY Giants(11-5) at Green Bay(13-3)
The NFL and the networks is greedy. No way should this be the late game. No way should the game start as late as it is. If you must be playing football(or anything else) this time of year outdoors in Wisconsin, it should be at noon or 1PM. There are going to be fans dying of hypothermia. And the great part about a Wisconsin game, the other fans will be so drunk they won't notice the dead guy until hours later. Oh yeah, the pick. Pack 33, Giants 24

Agree/Disagree? Post below

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:58:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 4-0(100%)

Against the spread: 4-0(100%)

Playoff Lock-of-the-Week: 1-0(100%)

Wow. I don't dare say a word to jinx this magical playoff run. But it should be an interesting week. All four teams are heavy favorites and any of them could lose...except New England, they never lose.

Seattle(10-6) at Green Bay(13-3)

A very scary game for Packer fans everywhere. I think Green Bay will be just good enough thanks to their running game. But if Favre has a 2006-Favre game, they are done for. Pack 35, Hawks 28

Jacksonville(11-5) at New England(16-0)

The Jags are a trendy pick right now. But I think the 'experts' are forgetting something: The Pats are 16-and-freaking-0!! They made those Miami dorks put the champagne away for good! The only, and I mean only team that can possibly beat them is the Colts. The Jags can slow it down and make them earn it, but in the end New England is just too good. Pats 22, Jags 10

San Diego(11-5) at Indianapolis(13-3)

Another trendy upset pick that won't happen. Although it should be interesting, because the Bolts played so bad last week. San Diego is too good to play that poorly two weeks in a row. It will all come down to Phillip Rivers, and he just isn't there yet. Its my Take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Colts 31, Bolts(+8.5) 27

That was confusing. I am picking the Colts, but the lock is the Chargers to cover. You got that? The line is just way too big for the Chargers right now, and the Colts grind-it-out style these days.

NY Giants(10-6) at Dallas(13-3)

Everyone knows the Cowboys are beatable, but Eli Manning? On the road? I'm not so sure. It could be a battle though. The Giants pass rush is ferocious, and Tony Romo fell apart down the stretch last year, will he do it again? Will Jessica Simpson be in attendance? Will Terrell Owens do the Macarena after a touchdown catch? Who knows? Cowboys 29, Giants 22

Agree/Disagree? Post below

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:05:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 7-9

Against-the-Spread: 8-7

Season total: 158-98

Season ATS: 113-122

Lock-of-the-Week: 13-5-2

The longest season is finally over, and I finished with respectable numbers. The Patriots made a statement with a record setting campaign. The Jags and Chargers are the teams that nobody wants to play, but I think the Colts are the one team that can dethrone the Pats. New England will sit back, rest and plan, and they will handle their first opponent. But in the AFC Title game they may have trouble with Indy, if the Colts don't stumble against the Bolts. In the NFC, who knows who will survive that Mosh-Pit. I'd like to pick the Packers, but they will need to play over their heads to do it. The Cowboys aren't scary, but they do have home field, so they are the safe pick. But first, lets talk round one.

Washington(9-7) at Seattle(10-6)

Home team + better team - Todd Collins = Hawks 20, Washington 16

Jacksonville(11-5) at Pittsburgh(10-6)

Rematch goes just like round one, only closer. Jags 35, Steelers 29(OT)

NY Giants(10-6) at Tampa Bay(9-7)

Two not-so-great teams. Upset Special and Take-it-to-Wendover-Lock-of-the-Week: Giants(+3) 26, Buccs 24

Tennessee(10-6) at San Diego(11-5)

The easy one: Bolts 38, Titans 27

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 18:35:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 10-6

Against-the-Spread: 6-9

Season total: 151-89

Season ATS: 105-115

Lock-of-the-week: 12-5-2

Sorry for the lateness of my picks. I'm going to get crazy with the underdogs, in a desperate last-ditch effort to finish the year above .500 against the spread. To do this, I'll have to go 13-and-2 against the number this week. Yeah. That's likely. But here goes:

New England(15-0) at NY Giants(10-5)

Pats 17, Giants 13

Seattle(10-5) at Atlanta(3-12)

Upset Special #1: Hawks 28, Falcons 24

San Francisco(5-10) at Cleveland(9-6)

Browns 39, Niners 28

Cincinnati(6-9) at Miami(1-14)

Bengals 31, Phins 27

Carolina(6-9) at Tampa Bay(9-6)

Upset Special #2: Buccs 27, Panthers 13

New Orleans(7-8) at Chicago(6-9)

Saints 34, Bears 33

Detroit(7-8) at Green Bay(12-3)

Pack 23, Loins 10

Buffalo(7-8) at Philadelphia(7-8)

Eagles 25, Bills 12

Jacksonville(11-4) at Houston(7-8)

Upset Special #3: Jags 14, Texans 6

Minnesota(8-7) at Denver(6-9)

Upset Special #4: Broncs 9, Vikes 7

Kansas City(4-11) at NY Jets(3-12)

Upset Special #5: Chiefs 30, Jets 24(OT)

Dallas(13-2) at Washington(8-7)

Upset Special #6: Cowboys 30, Washington 28

San Diego(10-5) at Oakland(4-11)

Chargers 34, Raiders 15

St. Louis(3-12) at Arizona(7-8)

Upset Special #7: Rams 24, Cards 21

Pittsburgh(10-5) at Baltimore(4-11)

Steelers 23, Ravens 18

Tennessee(9-6) at Indianapolis(13-2)

Upset Special #8, and my Take-it-to-Wendover-Lock-of-the-Week: Colts(+5.5) 20, Titans 6

Agree/Disagree? Post Below.

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 17:40:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 9-7(56%)

Against-the-spread: 7-7(50%)

Season total: 141-83(63%)

Season ATS: 99-106(48%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 12-5-1(68%)

A real life trip to Wendover went well. We are in the black, even if my ATS# is still in the red. My goal is to be above .500. I'll need two incredible weeks to do it. Not likely. But keep riding the lock, it has hit for seven straight weeks.

Pittsburgh(9-5) at St. Louis(3-11)

The Steelers are one of those top-tier teams that is struggling a little big. They'll come through in this game, only because they absolutely have to. Steelers 16, Rams 13

Dallas(12-2) at Carolina(6-8)

A second straight game with a A-level team that is playing like a C. But, even playing at half speed, the Cowboys can beat the lowly Panthers. Cowboys 18, Panthers 8

NY Giants(9-5) at Buffalo(7-7)

Somebody, anybody, tell me why the Giants are favored in this game. Upset special: Bills 37, Giants 32

Cleveland(9-5) at Cincinnati(5-9)

These are two teams that were supposed to have opposite records at this point. Can you really see the Browns winning a playoff game against anybody in the AFC? Me neither. Browns 15, Bengals 10

Houston(7-7) at Indianapolis(12-2)

The Colts haven't exactly been setting the world on fire either lately. But, at home, they should put it together a little bit. At least for this week, before their starters get vacation time. Colts 29, Texans 13

Oakland(4-10) at Jacksonville(10-4)

Did the Jags collectively make the leap with their huge win last week at Pittsburgh? Maybe. But they are super-pissed that they got zero Pro Bowlers, and they'll take out their frustrations on the poor Raiders. Jags 38, Raiders 17

Green Bay(12-2) at Chicago(5-9)

The Pack looks to avenge their only bad loss of the year. Chicago beat them in Green Bay, so they should be able to take the Packers at home, right? Wrong. Pack 34, Bears 24

Kansas City(4-10) at Detroit(6-8)

Its one last chance at the playoffs for the struggling Lions. They'll make a statement game out of it. That statement: 'We'll be watching the postseason on tv. Again.' Still, Its my Take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Loins(-5) 42, Chefs 26

Philadelphia(6-8) at New Orleans(7-7)

Too little, too late for the Eagles. They could win a surprise game as a treat to the leaving Don McNabb. Or they could go down in flames. Your answer: B. Saints 24, Eagles 12

Tampa Bay(9-5) at San Francisco(4-10)

Watch out for the Buccs in the playoffs. If they have a healthy Jeff Garcia, they will be a tough out. Buccs 32, Niners 23

Miami(1-13) at New England(14-0)

The Dolphins ruined the dream matchup by winning last week. That shrunk the spread, from around 30 or so, to 21.5. That's still a lot of points. Especially since you can't stop Greg Camarillo, you can only hope to contain him. Pats 38, Phins 19

Atlanta(3-11) at Arizona(6-8)

Its hard to believe now, but the Cards were the hot Wild-Card pick for about six weeks there. Now, they're toast. Apparently the Atlanta football club is having some coaching issues. Cards 28, Falcons 26

NY Jets(3-11) at Tennessee(8-6)

The Titans have a good record, but they never seem to blow anybody out. This is about as close as they will get. Titans 33, Jets 23

Baltimore(4-10) at Seattle(9-5)

Here are two teams heading in different directions. Hawks 20, Ravens 12

Washington(7-7) at Minnesota(8-6)

A Sunday night game with serious playoff implications. Its pretty much an elimination game for both teams. It should be close, but I think Minny will pull it out at home. Vikes 15, Washington 13

Denver(6-8) at San Diego(9-5)

This has the look of a big blowout on paper. Which probably means it will be close, or an upset. But I just can't bring myself to pick that. Bolts 37, Broncs 24

Agree/Disagree? Post below. Random comments will receive a free Famous Bowl from KFC.

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:11:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 13-3(81%)

Against-the-Spread: 11-3(79%)

Season total: 132-76(63%)

Season ATS: 92-99(48%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 11-5-1(67%)

I had the best week of all time last week. But there's no time to gloat, there are picks to get to.

Denver(6-7) at Houston(6-7)

Hard to believe the Broncos still have an outside shot at the playoffs. They'll keep the dream alive, for one more week. Broncs 21, Texans 17

Cincinnati(5-8) at San Francisco(3-10)

It was just announced that Alex Smith will have surgery and miss the rest of the season. I'm not sure whether that is a good or bad thing for the Niners. Bengals 34, Niners 25

Buffalo(7-6) at Cleveland(8-5)

This is a scrappy little game with serious playoff implications. The only problem with the Browns is: they're just not that good. Sure they're spunky, and fun to watch. But not good. Luckily for them, the Bills aren't all that hot either. Browns 19, Bills 17

Green Bay(11-2) at St. Louis(3-10)

A mismatch on paper. And on the field. Pack 30, Rams 22

NY Jets(3-10) at New England(13-0)

That spread is just too big. Isn't it? Pats 38, Jets 20

Jacksonville(9-4) at Pittsburgh(9-4)

This is the biggest test of the year for David Gerrard, who has been awesome from day one. The Steelers showed that they are just a half-step below the top tier with their loss last week to the Pats. I think the Jags are a better team, but not in Pittsburgh. Steelers 27, Jags 25

Seattle(9-4) at Carolina(5-8)

The Seahawks are the hottest team in the NFL that nobody is talking about. Hawks 36, Panthers 26

Tennessee(7-6) at Kansas City(4-9)

Vince Young and the Titans are a team full of grinders. They will grind out another win on the road. Titans 22, Chefs 18

Baltimore(4-9) at Miami(0-13)

The Dolphins quest for the winless season continues. Baltimore is so bad, they could almost spoil it for Miami. But not: Ravens 32, Phins 31

Arizona(6-7) at New Orleans(6-7)

This is an elimination game. The Cards have been playing above their heads for most of the year. Its time for them to come back down to earth. Its my Take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Saints(-3.5) 37, Cards 24

Atlanta(3-10) at Tampa Bay(8-5)

The Buccs need to get Jeff Garcia healthy by playoff time, or they'll be one and done. But the regular season is filled with teams like the Falcons, which is good for padding the win column. Buccs 32, Falcons 19

Philadelphia(5-8) at Dallas(12-1)

Could we really have an undefeated team and a 15-and-1 team in the same season? It seems more and more likely every week. Cowboys 24, Eagles 14

Indianapolis(11-2) at Oakland(4-9)

They may be undefeated, but I think the Pats are just a little bit afraid of meeting the Colts in the playoffs. Colts 17, Raiders 3

Detroit(6-7) at San Diego(8-5)

The Lions may be the Lord's Team, but they aren't going to be representing Him in the playoffs. Bolts 15, Loins 0

Washington(6-7) at NY Giants(9-4)

Eli Manning leads the worst 9-4 team in NFL history. Soon to be the worst 10-4 team ever. Giants 22, Washington 14

Chicago(5-8) at Minnesota(7-6)

Kent Rupe pointed out that Kyle Orton is starting for the Bears. Is that really a bad thing? He's just a guy who will avoid interceptions, throw zero downfield balls, and guarantee a close battle. Vikes 34, Bears 32

Agree/Disagree? Random posters will score a free Famous Bowl from KFC

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 20:12:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 10-6(63%)

Against-the-Spread: 9-7(56%)

Season total: 119-73(62%)

Season ATS: 81-96(46%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 10-5-1(65%)

It's official. The lock is on a freaking roll. Just roll with it. And if anyone is headed to Wendover, I have some cash to throw down. It is on.

Chicago(5-7) at Washington(5-7)

Another emotional game, on short notice, for Washington. They'll be fired up, and Rex will be in trouble. Washington 41, Bears 28

Miami(0-12) at Buffalo(6-6)

It didn't take long to get to the lock. A decent Bills team. At home. Versus a winless team. Laying just seven. Bills(-7) 35, Phins 16

Dallas(11-1) at Detroit(6-6)

This is actually a revenge game for the Cowboys, who got smoked by Detroit last year. Cowboys 17, Loins 7

San Diego(7-5) at Tennessee(7-5)

A complete toss up. It looks like Vince Young is back so: Titans 24, Bolts 20

Carolina(5-7) at Jacksonville(8-4)

Easy call. A good team versus a struggling team. Jags 17, Panthers 0

St. Louis(3-9) at Cincinnati(4-8)

Here may be the two most dissapointing teams in the league. Both in one stadium. Sounds like must-see-tv. Bengals 21, Rams 10

Oakland(4-8) at Green Bay(10-2)

A scary game for Packer fans. They'll need to get to whichever young QB the Raiders trot out there. Pack 34, Raiders 15

NY Giants(8-4) at Philadelphia(5-7)

Its do-or-die for the Eagles, who have already shown they have a ton of heart. Will it be enough to take out the more-talented Giants? Just barely. Eagles 33, Giants 32

Tampa Bay(8-4) at Houston(5-7)

The Buccs are for real. Well, they'll be in the playoffs anyways. Buccs 28, Texans 22

Minnesota(6-6) at San Francisco(3-9)

The Vikings are the new hot pick in the NFC. They should roll here, but something tells me they will have to earn it. Vikes 7, Niners 6

Kansas City(4-8) at Denver(5-7)

Denver is in trouble. The Chiefs are worse. Broncs 19, Chefs 12

Cleveland(7-5) at NY Jets(3-9)

The Browns are entertaining. The Jets are awful. Browns 19, Jets 12

Arizona(6-6) at Seattle(8-4)

Seattle owns the NFC West. Still. Hawks 39, Cards 24

Pittsburgh(9-3) at New England(12-0)

The game of the week. No guarantees here. Pats 31, Steelers 21

Indianapolis(10-2) at Baltimore(4-8)

Don't expect a repeat of last week's Ravens game. Colts 36, Ravens 27

New Orleans(5-7) at Atlanta(3-9)

Here's another doosy matchup for MNF. Saints 35, Falcons 28

Agree/Disagree? Post below. Random comments will win a free Famous Bowl from KFC

Fictional National Tournament

jbrunner — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 02:37:00 GMT

We are doing our annual duty, and picking the winners of the NCAA Football Tournament. We know we know, it doesn't really exist. This year we are opening up the vote to you the public. So after all our whining about the national title game being picked by voters, we are doing the exact same thing. Whatever. You can vote on our homepage abc4.com

Here is what the bracket should look like:

16. Central Michigan at 1. Ohio State

9. Florida at 8. Kansas

13. BYU at 4. Georgia

12. Arizona State at 5. Virginia Tech

15. Florida Atlantic at 2. LSU

10. Hawaii at 7. Missouri

14. Central Florida at 3. Oklahoma

11. West Virginia at 6. USC

Do you love it? Do you hate it? Post your comments below and you could win a Famous Bowl from KFC.