Sports Zone Blog : Jeremyball

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.

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 — 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 — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 16:35:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 8-6(57%)

Against-the-spread: 8-5(62%)

Season total: 82-48(63%)

Season ATS: 58-60(49%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 5-4-1(55%)

What a week for me against the number. That can't continue. But, I'm not gonna fight city hall. I'm picking almost all the favorites to cover this week. That's wacky since the dogs have covered in more than two thirds of all games this season.

Minnesota(3-5) at Green Bay(7-1)

As a Packer fan, I now fear Adrian Peterson like I once feared Randy Moss. But, without a quarterback: Its my Take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Pack(-6) 30, Vikes 10

Denver(3-5) at Kansas City(4-4)

The Broncos are done. Chefs 28, Broncs 19

St. Louis(0-8) at New Orleans(4-4)

Why do I feel the need to remind you every week that the Rams were my Super Bowl pick? Saints 24, Rams 8

Philadelphia(3-5) at Washington(5-3)

Andy Reid should get a book of stamps, because his team has already mailed it in. Washington 28, Eagles 22

Jacksonville(5-3) at Tennessee(6-2)

Or the 'play for the right to get destroyed by the Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round-Bowl'. Titans 26, Jags 10

Buffalo(4-4) at Miami(0-8)

Watch out for the Bills, they could give NE a race in the AFC East. Just kidding. Will John Beck play? Please? Bills 23, Dolphins 14

Cleveland(5-3) at Pittsburgh(6-2)

This is one of those crossroads contender/pretender games for the Browns. I'm going with pretender. Steelers 34, Browns 19

Atlanta(2-6) at Carolina(4-4)

Wow. Do you go with the team with the 56-YOL quarterback, or the team with a QB headed for prison? Close call. Panthers 28, Falcons 12

Cincinnati(2-6) at Baltimore(4-4)

The Ravens are falling apart about now. Too bad the Bengals have already disassembled. Ravens 31, Bengals 26

Dallas(7-1) at NY Giants(6-2)

Its the best game of the week. I've said it before, Eli is not quite ready for prime time. Cowboys 16, Giants 10

Chicago(3-5) at Oakland(2-6)

The only game this week between two sub .500 teams. That makes it the toilet bowl. Upset Special #1: Raiders 10, Bears 6

Detroit(6-2) at Arizona(3-5)

That last one was my first upset of the week. Time for number two. Upset Special #2: Lions 12, Cards 7

Indianapolis(7-1) at San Diego(4-4)

The Chargers badly need this one to regain control of the sketchy AFC West. Not gonna happen. Colts 23, Bolts 14

San Francisco(2-6) at Seattle(4-4)

While the Seahawks are not good, they are 3-1 at home, so: Hawks 28, Niners 21

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

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:59:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 8-5(62%)

Against-the-Spread: 3-9(25%)

Season total: 74-42(64%)

Season ATS: 50-55(48%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 4-4-1(50%)

It was one of the worst weeks I've ever had against the number. Which means: Bet with me this week, I can't be that bad twice in a row.

San Francisco(2-5) at Atlanta(1-6)

Toilet Bowl. Falcons 15, Niners 10

Denver(3-4) at Detroit(5-2)

Sometime that Detroit offense will slow down. Like this week. Upset Special #1: Broncs 7, Loins 6

Green Bay(6-1) at Kansas City(4-3)

The Pack is already 2-0 against the AFC West. But no NFC team will run the table against AFC opponents this year. Its just a better league. Chefs 17, Pack 14

Jacksonville(5-2) at New Orleans(3-4)

My only upset pick that went right last week was the Jags. Its real tempting to pick them again, but not against a Saints team that has it figured out. Saints 23, Jags 20(OT)

Arizona(3-4) at Tampa Bay(4-4)

I still believe in the Buccs as a good playoff-fringe-ish team. I thought the same thing about the Cards until Kurt Warner's updated deal-with-the-devil expired. Its my Take-it-to-Wendover-Lock-of-the-Week: Buccs(-3.5) 44, Cards 24

Cincinnati(2-5) at Buffalo(3-4)

The Bills have strung together four straight solid games. Why not make it five? Upset Special #2: Bills 32, Bengals 23

Carolina(4-3) at Tennessee(5-2)

Memo to David Carr: If 96-year-old Vinny Testaverde beats you out as the starting QB, you might want to freshen up that resume' for the AFL. Titans 18, Panthers 6

San Diego(4-3) at Minnesota(2-5)

The two best running backs in the league? Maybe, but I'm not ready to crown Adrian Peterson just yet. The Chargers are on a roll, even on the road. Bolts 14, Vikes 9

Washington(4-3) at NY Jets(1-7)

The Jets are starting a new quarterback against a very good defense. Not good. Washington 34, Jets 33

New England(8-0) at Indianapolis(7-0)

Easily the most-anticipated regular season showdown of all time. No matter what happens in this game, I have a strong feeling that the loser will get revenge in the AFC Title game. Upset Special #3: Colts 35, Pats 31

Seattle(4-3) at Cleveland(4-3)

The Browns are 4-3? Is that a misprint like Saturday's Weber State score? Upset Special #4: Hawks 19, Browns 13(OT)

Houston(3-5) at Oakland(2-5)

Houston has gone from a playoff hopeful to an also-ran in a matter of three short weeks. Raiders 20, Texans 17

Dallas(6-1) at Philadelphia(3-4)

Are the Cowboys still the class of the NFC? Maybe. Can I say the Pack, even though I am a fan? But they should win here. Yes, even in Philly. Cowboys 27, Eagles 18

Baltimore(4-3) at Pittsburgh(5-2)

The Ravens have struggled all year, but somehow still have a winning record. But a loss here will all-but kill their division title hopes. Steelers 24, Ravens 23

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

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 02:14:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 10-4(71%)

Against-the-spread: 6-6(50%)

Season total: 66-37(64%)

Season ATS: 47-46(50%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 3-4-1(44%)

Aargh. No matter how many nice upsets I pick, I never seem to get the right ones. In honor of the Colorado Rockies and their feeble chances in the world series, I'm picking more upsets than ever. And what's the deal with Red Sox fans? Didn't they used to be the lovable losers, not the taunting bandwagon frontrunners. Lame-city.

Detroit(4-2) at Chicago(3-4)

The Bears are back. And as the fan of a fellow NFC North team, I am frightened. Bears 17, Loins 10

Oakland(2-4) at Tennessee(4-2)

These Titans are just grinders. They just find a way to win, even when they don't deserve it. Titans 24, Raiders 9

NY Giants(5-2) vs. Miami(0-7)

Why is the NFL playing regular season games in London? Just wondering. And if we are trying to sell the game overseas, why are we sending the Dolphins? Giants 38, Phins 27

Indianapolis(6-0) at Carolina(4-2)

The Colts are in serious danger of a letdown game on the road, the week before the biggest regular-season game of all time. Upset Special #1: Panthers 35, Colts 34

Pittsburgh(4-2) at Cincinnati(2-4)

Pittsburgh got exposed last week, and they may struggle for a while in the face of eight men in the box on every play. But the Bengals are already planning future arrests for January. Steelers 10, Bengals 7

Cleveland(3-3) at St. Louis(0-7)

It's official. I give up on the Rams. Browns 16, Rams 14

Philadelphia(2-4) at Minnesota(2-4)

Not sure how the Eagles blew that game versus the Bears. But here they'll do it again. Upset Special #2: Vikes 16, Eagles 15

Houston(3-4) at San Diego(3-3)

The Texans blew up for a 27 point fourth quarter last week, yet still lost. Not good. Its my take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Bolts(-10) 37, Texans 14

Washington(4-2) at New England(7-0)

I predict the Patriots will lose sometime this season. Just not this week. Pats 45, Washington 18

Buffalo(2-4) at NY Jets(1-6)

The toilet bowl. Maybe we should have sent this game to London. Jets 10, Bills 3

Jacksonville(4-2) at Tampa Bay(4-3)

Its a close call, but I think the Jags are too good to lose two games in a row. Especially to a team(any team) from the NFC. Upset Special #3: Jags 20, Buccs 18

New Orleans(2-4) at San Francisco(2-4)

Another London Special. Saints 31, Niners 28

Green Bay(5-1) at Denver(3-3)

Ouch. Do I really have to pick against my team? Well they are playing a Denver club, in prime time for the second week in a row, in a sports city re-energized by its first World Series trip. So, yeah. Broncs 31, Pack 21

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Utah All-Class High School Football Rankings for 10/20

jbrunner — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 20:32:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

All-Class Rankings

1. Alta-5A(9-1)

2. Timpview-4A(9-0)

3. Bingham-5A(9-1)

4. Layton-5A(9-1)

5. Highland-4A(8-2)

6. Skyline-5A(6-4)

7. Cottonwood-4A(9-1)

8. East-4A(8-2)

9. Jordan-5A(7-3)

10. Northridge-5A(8-2)

11. Davis-5A(6-4)

12. American Fork-5A(7-3)

13. Pleasant Grove-5A(7-3)

14. Pine View-4A(10-0)

15. Fremont-5A(6-4)

16. Timpanogos-5A(5-4)

17. Logan-3A(8-2)

18. Sky View-4A(8-2)

19. Cedar City-3A(7-3)

20. Viewmont-5A(6-4)

21. Mountain Crest-4A(5-4)

22. Dixie-4A(6-3)

23. Millard-2A(9-0)

24. Spanish Fork-5A(4-5)

25. Hunter-5A(3-7)

26. Riverton-5A(6-4)

27. Bountiful-4A(8-2)

28. Orem-4A(6-4)

29. Lone Peak-5A(2-8)

30. North Summit-2A(9-0)

31. Clearfield-5A(4-6)

32. Park City-3A(8-2)

33. Roy-4A(5-5)

34. Bonneville-4A(4-5)

35. Mountain View-4A(6-3)

36. Wasatch-3A(7-3)

37. Union-3A(7-3)

38. Kearns-5A(5-5)

39. Snow Canyon-4A(5-4)

40. Juan Diego-3A(7-3)

41. Box Elder-4A(3-6)

42. Judge Memorial-3A(7-2)

43. Taylorsville-5A(3-7)

44. West-4A(5-5)

45. South Summit-2A(8-1)

46. Cyprus-4A(6-4)

47. West Jordan-5A(5-5)

48. Weber-5A(2-8)

49. Kanab-1A(9-1)

50. Copper Hills-5A(4-6)

51. Payson-4A(3-6)

52. Brighton-5A(2-8)

53. Hillcrest-5A(2-8)

54. Provo-4A(2-7)

55. Woods Cross-4A(3-6)

56. Tooele-4A(3-7)

57. Olympus-4A(3-7)

58. Springville-4A(2-8)

59. Manti-2A(7-3)

60. Emery-3A(6-4)

61. Lehi-5A(1-8)

62. Delta-3A(4-5)

63. North Sanpete-3A(6-4)

64. Juab-2A(6-4)

65. Richfield-2A(6-4)

66. Granger-4A(2-8)

67. San Juan-2A(6-4)

68. Rich-1A(6-2)

69. Duchesne-1A(6-4)

70. Murray-4A(1-8)

71. Morgan-3A(5-5)

72. Hurricane-3A(3-7)

73. Grantsville-3A(3-7)

74. Grand County-2A(5-4)

75. Syracuse-5A(0-10)

76. Bear River-3A(1-9)

77. Ben Lomond-3A(1-9)

78. Ogden-3A(3-7)

79. Enterprise-1A(6-4)

80. Canyon View-3A(0-9)

81. Carbon-3A(2-7)

82. Uintah-3A(1-8)

83. South Sevier-2A(3-7)

84. North Sevier-1A(4-4)

85. Parowan-1A(3-7)

86. Gunnison-2A(4-6)

87. Beaver-2A(0-10)

88. American Leadership Academy-2A(1-9)

89. Monticello-1A(5-5)

90. Milford-1A(1-8)

91. Altamont-1A(1-9)

92. Layton Christian-1A(1-8)

Agree/Disagree? Post below

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 17:35:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 11-3(79%)

Against-the-spread: 9-5(64%)

Season total: 47-29(62%)

Season ATS: 36-34(51%)

Lock-of-the-week: 3-2-1(57%)

That's more like it. I bounced back from my worst week ever, with a great week, even against the number. Expect more of the same this week, with a lack of home dogs.

Minnesota(1-3) at Chicago(2-3)

The Bears are back. Okay, they still have their problems. But now that their defense is humming, is there any chance they lose to the Vikings. Its my take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Bears(-6) 20, Vikes 0

Washington(3-1) at Green Bay(4-1)

This is a very scary game for Packer fans like me. I'll pick with my heart rather than my head. Pack 41, Washington 25

Philadelphia(1-3) at NY Jets(1-4)

Both of these teams are better than their record shows. Its a toss up, but I'll stick with the home dogs. Upset Special #1: Jets 27, Eagles 24

Houston(3-2) at Jacksonville(3-1)

The Texans are starting to come back down to earth after a hot start. Jacksonville will toss another sandbag into the Houston balloon. Jags 41, Texans 24

Miami(0-5) at Cleveland(2-3)

Poor Dana Greene. Browns 38, Phins 31

Cincinnati(1-3) at Kansas City(2-3)

Which is a bigger dissapointment so far this season?: 1) The Cincinnati Bengals, or B) Fantasy Larry Johnson. Bengals 16, Chefs 7

Tennessee(3-1) at Tampa Bay(3-2)

A good matchup of spunky teams that could make the playoffs. Though the AFC is vastly superior, the NFC will take one of these showdowns occasionally: Buccs 26, Titans 24

St. Louis(0-5) at Baltimore(3-2)

Remember in the late 90's, that pro wrestler called Raven. That guy ruled. Ravens 35, Rams 13

Carolina(3-2) at Arizona(3-2)

I'm not drinking the Cards Kool-Aid yet. But I'm close. Upset Special #2: Panthers 32, Cards 27

Oakland(2-2) at San Diego(2-3)

It looks like the Chargers are finally ready to start playing for real. But that doesn't automatically mean they will smoke the Raiders. Bolts 36, Raiders 32

New England(5-0) at Dallas(5-0)

The biggest showdown of the young season, and a potential Super Bowl Preview. The Pats are just too good right now. Maybe not later. Pats 16, Cowboys 14

New Orleans(0-4) at Seattle(3-2)

Hard to believe this stinker is the NBC game this week. Is this supposed to happen? Hawks 40, Saints 24

NY Giants(3-2) at Atlanta(1-4)

The Giants look like a playoff team in the inferior NFC. They'll have their hands full with the punchy Falcons on Monday night. Giants 38, Falcons 27

Agree/Disagree? Post below

Jeremyball - Weekly Utah High School Football Picks

jbrunner — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:43:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 33-13(72%)

Season total: 254-88(74%)

American Fork 29 at Lone Peak 26

Canyon View 13 at Cedar City 47

Juab 22 at South Summit 37

Lehi 6 at Timpanogos 37

Mountain View 26 at Payson 13

Pine View 50 at Hurricane 13

Snow Canyon 27 at Dixie 19

Spanish Fork 24 at Pleasant Grove 36

Springville 23 at Provo 31

Tooele 3 at Orem 23

Alta 34 at Taylorsville 3

Altamont 3 at North Sevier 13

Ben Lomond 0 at Logan 50

Bingham 44 at Hunter 17

Copper Hills 29 at West Jordan 28

Davis 20 at Northridge 26

East 63 at Cyprus 33

Grand 24 at South Sevier 18

Granger 0 at Cottonwood 46

Gunnison 24 at North Summit 29

Highland 44 at West 19

Hillcrest 10 at Brighton 15

Juan Diego 41 at Carbon 17

Judge Memorial 15 at Union 27

Kearns 0 at Riverton 24

Layton Christian 29 at Monticello 36

Manti 46 at American Leadership Academy 20

Milford 8 at Kanab 45

Millard 62 at Beaver 7

Morgan 13 at Bear River 10

Murray 25 at Olympus 31(OT)

North Sanpete 15 at Emery 13

Ogden 21 at Grantsville 28

Park City 28 at Wasatch 29

Parowan 3 at Enterprise 14

Rich 27 at Duchesne 39

Richfield 18 at San Juan 50

Roy 23 at Bountiful 27

Sky View 16 at Mountain Crest 24

Skyline 8 at Jordan 24

Syracuse 3 at Fremont 47

Viewmont 0 at Layton 17

Weber 16 at Clearfield 24

Woods Cross 15 at Box Elder 29

Agree/Disagree? Post below

Spiral Notes

jbrunner — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 23:27:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 4-10(29%)

Against-the-spread: 5-9(36%)

Season total: 36-26(58%)

Season ATS: 27-29(48%)

Lock-of-the-Week: 3-1-1(68%)

That was the worst week of all time. I don't know why I was surprised, with so many home dogs. How embarrasing. Lets move on to this week and my next ridiculous failure. On the bright side, the lock of the week hit for the third straight time, so maybe it was returned to 2005 form.

Atlanta(1-3) at Tennessee(2-1)

The Falcons are improving, and should be a tough win in the ATL for the rest of the season. But I love these Titans. Vince Young appears poised to be the first to break up the Madden-Jinx. Although I may have just ruined his year by adding the Spiral Notes jinx on top of that. Screw it: Its my take-it-to-Wendover-lock-of-the-week: Titans(-8.5) 37, Falcons 12

Arizona(2-2) at St. Louis(0-4)

It looks like Kurt Warner has re-upped on that deal with the devil. Warner had his three years of greatness, and has been awful ever since. But now he is back in 2000 form. Look out. Strangely, his coach is still starting Leinart, and bringing Warner off the bench. Picking the Rams as my pre-season Super Bowl champs doesn't look so hot now. Upset Special #1: Rams 33, Cards 32

Carolina(2-2) at New Orleans(0-3)

What team is falling apart faster? My money is on the Saints. And never doubt an addicted gambler. Well, except when it comes to gambling. Upset Special #2: Panthers 17, Saints 16

Seattle(3-1) at Pittsburgh(3-1)

This feels familiar. Didn't these teams play in the Super Bowl or something? Didn't the Steelers win by 11? In that case: Steelers 38, Hawks 27

Miami(0-4) at Houston(2-2)

I feel for Dana Greene, the world's biggest Dolphin fan. His team sucks, and Dan Marino has been wiped from the record books. But remember, the Packers started last season 0-and-4, finished 8-8, and now they're headed for the Super Bowl(maybe?). So it can be done. Just not by Cam Cleeland, whoever that is. Texans 20, Phins 7

Jacksonville(2-1) at Kansas City(2-2)

This is one of those games that could go either way. The only thing that won't happen is a burst of interesting-ness. Jags 30, Chefs 25

Cleveland(2-2) at New England(4-0)

The first of 12 straight 'trap' games for the Patriots, who are apparently going to go undefeated. They look sharper than a tack now, but all it takes is one bad week and those 72 Dolphin dorks are happy again. What losers those guys are. Pats 41, Browns 19

NY Jets(1-3) at NY Giants(2-2)

So this counts as a road game for the Jets, even though they get to dress in their own locker room? I guess it doesn't really matter. Giants 37, Jets 25

Detroit(3-1) at Washington(2-1)

Jon Kitna for MVP? I'm not climbing on that bandwagon just yet. Washington 33, Loins 28

San Diego(1-3) at Denver(2-2)

Is it possible for the Chargers to resign Marty Schottenheimer after they lose Sunday? Can that happen? Broncs 34, Bolts 20

Tampa Bay(3-1) at Indianapolis(4-0)

The Buccs are a spunky team, exactly the kind of team that could come out of the NFC. Look, I know the Cowboys and Packers are good, I'm just not sure they've caught up with the AFC. At all. Take for example, this game: Colts 22, Buccs 10

Baltimore(2-2) at San Francisco(2-2)

Here are two struggling 2-2 teams. Will the Niners be better with Trent Dilfer than they were under Alex Smith? How about the Ravens? What happened to that world class defense? Ravens 27, Niners 23

Chicago(1-3) at Green Bay(4-0)

If the Pack went up four games on Da' Bears just a week into October, that would be nice. Nothing against Chicago. My favorite city is home to my most-hated(non-Dallas) team. Pack 28, Bears 12

Dallas(4-0) at Buffalo(1-3)

The Bills have finally solved some of their problems, they'll be a tough win the rest of the year in Buffalo. Yes, even for America's Team(what a joke). Cowboys 18, Bills 13

Agree/Disagree? Post below.

Jeremyball-Weekly Utah High School Football Picks

jbrunner — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 16:33:00 GMT

By Jeremy Brunner

Last week: 26-14(65%)

Season total: 116-47(71%)

All those upsets last week left me with one of my worst picking-weeks of all time. But mark my words, I shall recover. Jordan over Bingham, Layton over Fremont, Judge over Logan, these big upsets will settle down and I will return to glory.

Altamont 23 at Monticello 31

Beaver 16 at Grand 29

Bonneville 23 at Mountain Crest 28

Box Elder 3 at Bountiful 20

Clearfield 35 Viewmont 28(OT)

Cyprus 8 at Cottonwood 27

Delta 3 at Cedar City 29

Duchesne 28 at Kanab 33

Emery 39 at Uintah 30

Highland 44 at Granger 3

Hillcrest 10 at West Jordan 17

Hunter 24 at Spanish Fork 43

Hurricane 14 at Park City 51

Jordan 17 at Riverton 6

Juab 23 at American Leadership Academy 0

Juan Diego 15 at Bear River 11

Kearns 24 at Skyline 39

Layton 14 at Davis 3

Lone Peak 15 at Bingham 41

Manti 17 at North Summit 37

Milford 18 at Parowan 28

Millard 14 at San Juan 8

Morgan 22 at North Sanpete 23

Murray 8 at East 37

North Sevier 27 at Enterprise 37

Northridge 14 at Fremont 24

Ogden 7 at Judge Memorial 50

Pine View 19 at Lehi 3

Pleasant Grove 40 at Brighton 22

Provo 38 at Payson 30

Rich 24 at Layton Christian 17

Roy 24 at Sky View 31

Snow Canyon 46 at Carbon 0

South Sevier 31 at Richfield 36

South Summit 42 at Gunnison 16

Springville 10 at Tooele 31

Taylorsville 12 at Copper Hills 42

Timpanogos 26 at Orem 21

Timpview 35 at Mountain View 3

Union 16 at Grantsville 6

Wasatch 30 at Ben Lomond 13

Weber 31 at Syracuse 12

West 15 at Olympus 14

Agree/Disagree? Post below