2011 MLB Postseason Preview

     Last night was the greatest night of baseball that I have ever seen. I'm supposed to be a Red Sox fan, but since I am not at all interested in rooting for Kevin Youkilis and Jonathan Papelbon among others, last night I was a baseball fan. As a fan of the game, you could not have been disappointed with the ending of the AL Wild Card race and the NL Wild Card race for that matter. The Rays and the Cardinals capped off two of the greatest comebacks in baseball history. Now, will they carry that momentum into the postseason as teams like the Yankees and Phillies are rested and ready to go. I expect this postseason to be just like the end of the regular season; exciting and thrilling. Here are my predictions for this postseason as I break down the Division Series'.

American League
Detroit Tigers v.s. New York Yankees
      Both teams haven't played in a real meaningful game in a while and both teams are healthy for what should be a tough series for both teams. Justin Verlander will square off with C.C. Sabathia in Game 1 at Yankee Stadium. I think if the Tigers can take Game 1, they are set up really well for the rest of the series. If the Yankees happen to Game 1, I believe they will go on to win the series in four. Postseason baseball comes down to bullpens as well and while both teams have stellar bullpens, whichever one can shut down the opposing offense in late inning situations will win the series. I think the Tigers will definitely make this a series, but with too many great hitters from top to bottom and enough pitching and defense, the Yankees will take this series and move on to the ALCS.
New York in Five
Series Complexion (underline indicates home win)
1 Detroit 4-3  2 New York 7-5  3 New York 6-1  4 Detroit 8-3  5 New York 10-7


Tampa Bay Rays v.s. Texas Rangers
      A rematch of last year's Divisional series but this time, the Rangers do not have Cliff Lee. The Rays have all the mojo going for them and they are on a hot streak. Texas has been resting for a while and they have all their guys healthy and ready to go for the postseason. I think Tampa Bay has the advantage with starting pitching, but if Texas can get into the late innings with the lead, their bullpen will take care of the rest. However, I see Tampa Bay picking up right where they left off and they will extract revenge from last years defeat by denying Texas another trip to the World Series.
Tampa Bay in Four
Series Complexion
1 Texas 8-5  2 Tampa Bay 7-3  3 Tampa Bay 13-5  4 Tampa Bay 4-2


National League
St. Louis Cardinals v.s. Philadelphia Phillies
     The Phillies are automatically in the World Series right? Well not so fast. The Cardinals are coming into the playoffs playing their best baseball of the season while the Phillies haven't really played a meaningful game this whole season because they clinched so early. Everyone assumes this series should be a cake walk for the Phillies. It happens to the best teams sometimes where they overlook a first round matchup. It happened with the Celtics in 2008 when the mediocre Atlanta Hawks came in and took them to seven games. The Celtics also went on to win the championship. I think the Cardinals give the Phillies a good scare but ultimately the Phillies pull through and edge by the Cardinals.
Philadelphia in Five
Series Complexion 
1 Philadelphia 4-3  2 St. Louis 6-2  3 St. Louis 9-1  4 Philadelphia 7-2  5 Philadelphia 4-0


Arizona Diamondbacks v.s. Milwaukee Brewers
     The Diamondbacks are the surprise team of 2011 while the Brewers are trying to win their first playoff series since 1982. I think that if the Diamondbacks want to have any chance in this series, they will need to play well early in the series because I think given the fact that Milwaukee will be charged up to play in front of a raucous atmosphere along with their offense that is capable of putting up double digit run totals, the Diamondbacks could very well be blown out in the first two games, leaving them like Cincinnati last year who was swept by Philadelphia. I think Arizona will hold it's own, but Milwaukee is on a mission to win a World Series and Arizona is not going to get in their way. 
Milwaukee in Four
Series Complexion
1 Milwaukee 5-1  2 Milwaukee 6-4  3 Arizona 9-3  4 Milwaukee 7-2 


ALCS
Tampa Bay Rays v.s. New York Yankees 
     The Rays have the edge in this series because of their pitching. The Yankees fell victims to a solid Texas pitching staff last season and they will fall victim to another good pitching staff again if the Yankees can't get deep outings from their pitching staff. After C.C., someone on the Yankees staff will need to step up. I don't see that happen as the Rays advance to the World Series in an epic series. 
Tampa Bay in Seven
Series Complexion
1 New York 5-4  2 New York 3-2  3 Tampa Bay 8-6  
4 New York 6-3  5 Tampa Bay 12-10  6 Tampa Bay 6-4  7 Tampa Bay 9-5


NLCS
Milwaukee Brewers v.s. Philadelphia Phillies

     I believe that if the Brewers can get by the Phillies, they will roll to the World Series title. I also believe that if the Phillies get by the Brewers, they will have defeated their biggest roadblock in their attempt to win another World Series title. Both teams have high caliber offenses, but it will be up to Milwaukee's pitching staff to match whatever Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels do. I think Zack Grienke is that guy that will step up for the Brewers. But ultimately, too much all around depth and experience to go along with their unbelievable pitching staff allow the Phillies to scrape past the Brewers and march onto the World Series. 
Philadelphia in Six
Series Complexion
1 Milwaukee 2-0  2 Philadelphia 1-0  3 Milwaukee 14-8  4 Philadelphia 5-3  
5 Philadelphia 3-1  6 Philadelphia 7-6


2011 World Series
Tampa Bay Rays v.s. Philadelphia Phillies
     A rematch of the 2008 World Series, I expect that if this series were to happen, it would be more competitive than the last time these two teams met in the Fall Classic. It would be up to the Rays bats to step up and manufacture runs. The Rays would be underdogs in this series, but I think based off their mojo and charisma, the Rays can grab at least a game or two. But this Phillies team is too talented and they will go down as one of the more dominant teams in baseball history.
Philadelphia in Six
Series Complexion
1 Philadelphia 10-1  2 Tampa Bay 8-0  3 Philadelphia 7-6  4 Tampa Bay 6-5  5 Philadelphia 8-4
6 Philadelphia 7-2

NFL Week 3 Predictions

!Upset
*Big Game
**Game of the Week


*New England Patriots (2-0) v.s. Buffalo Bills (2-0) (NE -9)
     Buffalo fans can finally be excited because they now have a legitimate shot at finally beating the Patriots. This game looks to be bad news for the Patriots on paper because they have injury problems with Aaron Hernandez, Pat Chung and Albert Haynesworth out. They are playing in Buffalo where the fans will be jacked up and the Bills can put up points and we have seen how the Patriots have had problems stopping the pass this year. Bill Bellichick always tries to key on one player to stop and this week I think it is Fred Jackson. I believe the Patriots will minimize Fred Jackson, forcing Ryan Fitzpatrick into a couple of turnovers which put the Patriots offense into some nice situations. If the Bills allow 35 points to Jason Campbell and the Oakland Raiders, I can only imagine that Tom Brady should be able to do the same today.
New England 35-24
Spread: New England


San Francisco 49ers (1-1) v.s. Cincinnati Bengals (1-1) (CIN -3)
     Both teams are coming off narrow losses in week 2 and you can make the argument that both teams could also be 2-0. I think Cincinnati has been the benefit of a somewhat soft schedule while San Francisco has been impressive in their first 2 games, in particular against Dallas where they got after Tony Romo big time. I think Andy Dalton doesn't have quite the same success he has had in his first two weeks and with defense, the 49ers get the W in Cincinnati.
San Francisco 20-14
Spread: San Francisco


Miami Dolphins (0-2) v.s. Cleveland Browns (1-1) (CLE -3)
     The two things I have learned about this Miami team is that they are miserable at home, but they are above average on the road. Chad Henne and the Miami offense will have similar success like they did against New England in Week 1 and Cameron Wake and the Dolphin front seven will be controlling the tempo up front all day.
Miami 24-16!
Spread: Miami


Denver Broncos (1-1) v.s. Tennessee Titans (1-1) (TEN -7)
     I think Tennessee's win last week over the Ravens was by far the most impressive performance by any team last week. The Titans remain competitive even while Chris Johnson has been anemic rushing the ball. Denver should remain close but I look for Chris Johnson to finally break the 100 yard mark as the Titans pull out a close victory.
Tennessee 21-19
Spread: Denver


Detroit Lions (2-0) v.s. Minnesota Vikings (0-2) (DET -4)
     The Lions are rolling while the Vikings are stumbling. This is a make or break week for both teams. If the Lions move to 3-0, they put themselves ahead of many teams before their schedule beings to get a little bit tougher. The Vikings need a win simply to stay afloat after their collapse against Tampa Bay last week. It's never easy for Detroit to win in Minnesota and it won't be today, but the Lions are balanced and their defense will harass Donovan McNabb enough to get by the Vikings.
Detroit 23-17
Spread: Detroit


*Houston Texans (2-0) v.s. New Orleans Saints (1-1) (NO -4) 
     This game on paper should be a shoot out. The Saints have been great offensively and so have the Texans. The Saints will be one of the tougher teams the Texans will see and it will be important to see how the Texans protect Matt Schaub. Houston will also be without Arian Foster, putting even more pressure on the passing game. New Orleans, with balance and a minimal amount of turnovers will control the game and the Texans will be playing catchup for most of the afternoon.
New Orleans 31-24
Spread: New Orleans


*New York Giants (1-1) v.s. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) (PHI -5.5)
     I don't think Michael Vick is truly healthy, nor do I think he has been effective anyway. The Giants have proved they can dominate games with their pass rush and I see the Giants getting lots of pressure on Vick, causing him to make many mistakes. Along with problems on offense, the Eagles have holes defensively that I think a balanced Giants attack along with a few big plays can expose. I'm taking the Giants in the upset.
New York 28-24
Spread: New York


Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) v.s. Carolina Panthers (0-2) (CAR -4)
     The Panthers have shown strides that they are coming into their own and this is the week it comes together. The Panthers will get everything going today, in particular the running attack which allows Cam Newton to throw for at least 300 yards as the Panthers handle the Jaguars with ease.
Carolina 34-13
Spread: Carolina 


New York Jets (2-0) v.s. Oakland Raiders (1-1) (NYJ -4)
     The Raiders could very easily be 2-0 and they are ready to expose the Jets. Mark Sanchez has not protected the ball well this year and the Raiders are ready to create some turnovers. The Jets will beat themselves today as the Raiders sneak by the Jets in an upset.
Oakland 27-20!
Spread: Oakland 


Baltimore Ravens (1-1) v.s. St. Louis Rams (0-2) (BAL -4)
     I don't know who will win this game because I'm not sure what team will show up. The Ravens had a major let down against Tennessee and I think they are ready to come back with a strong performance. Yet, I'm not ready to write off the Rams because I think when they're healthy, they are a strong team. I don't believe the Rams are completely healthy and I think the Ravens will come back and play more like the team that beat Pittsburgh then the team that lost to Tennessee.
Baltimore 21-17
Spread: St. Louis


Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) v.s. San Diego Chargers (1-1) (SD -15)
     I don't know if things can get worse for Kansas City. They have gotten blown out in their first two games and they lost their two best players to season ending injuries. The Chargers need to win this game if they think they are a legitimate title contender. I think the Chargers minimize turnovers and Phillip Rivers and Vincent Jackson both have another big day as the Chargers move to 2-1.
San Diego 38-14
Spread: San Diego


*Green Bay Packers (2-0) v.s. Chicago Bears (1-1) (GB -4) 
     This should be good old fashioned football. The Packers look great, but they did expose some weaknesses on defense last week. The Bears have face their third top tier team in as many weeks and a win could prove that they still remain a Super Bowl contender. I see this game shaping up like the NFC Championship last year with Aaron Rodgers having a solid day but the Bears hanging around. The Packers will edge the Bears at Soldier Field and move to 3-0.
Green Bay 28-23
Spread: Green Bay


Arizona Cardinals (1-1) v.s. Seattle Seahawks (0-2) (ARZ -4)
     The Seahawks have looked awful on offense in their first two contests. They return home this week and I think they are ready to put on a good show against Arizona. The problem is that the Kevin Kolb to Larry Fitzgerald connection is starting to heat up. Combine that with the Cardinals ability to run the ball well and you have yourself a road victory for Arizona at Quest Field.
Arizona 24-20
Spread: Seattle


*Atlanta Falcons (1-1) v.s. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1) (TB -1)
     Both of these NFC South foes got much needed wins last week. Atlanta looked very good on offense while Tampa Bay showed they have that same will and desire that got them to 10-6 last year. I think the Atlanta defense has many holes and the Tampa offense needs to be able to take advantage of that. Josh Freeman needs to get back to playing no turnover football and if he does that, Tampa will get a nice home victory over the Falcons.
Tampa Bay 30-24!
Spread: Tampa Bay


Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) v.s. Indianapolis Colts (0-2) (PIT -11)
     With the way the Colts have looked on offense this year, I just can't see them putting up many points against the Steelers defense. What has surprised me is how uninspired the Colts defense has played. It's Sunday Night Football and a win against the Steelers might turn around their season and they might be able to hang around in a weak AFC South division. I see the Colts finally playing some defense, but there is no way the Colts mount enough points to beat the Steelers.
Pittsburgh 19-3
Spread: Pittsburgh


**Washington Redskins (2-0) v.s. Dallas Cowboys (1-1) (Even)
     The big question is whether Tony Romo is healthy. If he is, I see the Cowboys getting the victory. If he isn't, I see the Redskins moving to 3-0. I believe Romo's health is somewhere in the middle, but the Dallas defense steps up and slows down Rex Grossman and the 'Skins. The Cowboys pull it out in a thriller and a very entertaining Monday Night showdown.
Dallas 27-24 OT
Spread: Dallas




Last Week: 13-3
Season: 24-8
Last Week Against Spread: 5-11
Season: 16-16
Last Week Upsets: 0-1
Season: 0-2
Last Week Big Games: 5-0
Season: 9-1
Last Week Big Games Against Spread: 2-3 
Season: 7-3
Last Week Game of the Week: 0-1
Season: 1-1
Last Week Game of the Week Against Spread: 0-1
Season: 0-2

College Football- Week 4 Predictions

Notre Dame v.s. Pittsburgh
     Pittsburgh is coming off a bad, bad loss against Iowa and Notre Dame is coming off a nice win over Michigan State. I think now that Notre Dame has gotten over that hump, they will start to roll for a few weeks at least. That starts this week as Notre Dame wins its second in a row at Pittsburgh.
Notre Dame 28-20


23 USC Trojans v.s. Arizona State 
     USC looked sluggish two weeks in but they really pulled it together last week against Syracuse, in particular Matt Barkley. Arizona State, after a nice start, lost to Illinois last week. USC has a gut test this week. We'll see if they are for real if they can beat Arizona State. We'll also see if Matt Barkley is really ready to make USC into a top tier team. I think USC pulls out a nice victory.
USC 27-23


10 Oregon v.s. Arizona 
     Many think Oregon is a near lock to win out and get to the Rose Bowl at least by the end of the season. I think Oregon may be looking ahead a little bit too much. They already seem to think that winning out is a guarantee and the Stanford game is the only one that matters the rest of the regular season. Not so fast because Arizona can put up some points as we saw last week against Stanford. Arizona upsets Oregon in a shoot out. 
Arizona 41-37


San Diego State v.s. 22 Michigan 
     Michigan squares off against Brady Hoke's former team at the Big House. This is a game Michigan needs to win. San Diego State is a very good team, but they can be easily overlooked. A 4-0 start could start to have people believe that a BCS berth isn't out of the question for Michigan. I think Denard Robinson has a humungous game and Michigan pulls out a must win.
Michigan 36-27


11 Florida State v.s. 21 Clemson
     This is a huge game for both of these teams. Florida State can still have a great season that concludes in a top 5 finish and Clemson can win the ACC and appear in a BCS Bowl. Clemson is coming off a nice home win last week against Auburn but I think they are feeling a little bit too confident, especially after I saw their coach freak out after a regular season win. Florida State has injuries, but it won't effect them too much. Florida State shuts up Clemson and pulls off a big road win.
Florida State 27-17


2 LSU v.s. 16 West Virginia 
     LSU has the best defense in the nation thus far. This is a test for them in Morgantown as West Virginia has a solid team all around. Unless West Virginia gets at least two big momentum shifters as in an interception return or a kick return, I don't see them putting quite enough points to beat LSU.
LSU 23-17


14 Arkansas v.s. 3 Alabama 
     People don't really know what to make of Arkansas, but I know what to make of Alabama. They have a  championship caliber defense and they can run the ball. This is their first SEC test and they have it at home. Alabama notches a nice win over Arkansas.
Alabama 24-14


Game of the Week
7 Oklahoma State v.s. 8 Texas A&M
     This is a very interesting matchup and I don't really know who to take. Oklahoma State has the offense and Texas A&M has the defense, but lets not underestimate the Aggie offense because they are capable of putting up points. I think Texas A&M needs to score early if they are going to win this game and since I think they will do that, Oklahoma State will be playing catchup for most of the night and the Aggies pull out a victory.
Texas A&M 26-23


Last Week: 6-2
Season: 13-10
Game of the Week: 2-1


Top 25 After Week 4
1 Oklahoma 3-0
2 LSU 4-0
3 Alabama 4-0
4 Boise State 3-0
5 Stanford 3-0
6 Wisconsin 4-0
7 Texas A&M 3-0
8 Nebraska 4-0
9 Florida State 3-1
10 South Carolina 4-0
11 Virginia Tech 4-0
12 Florida 4-0
13 Oklahoma State 2-1
14 Baylor 3-0
15 South Florida 4-0
16 Texas 3-0
17 TCU 3-1 
18 Michigan 4-0
19 Oregon 2-2
20 USC 4-0
21 Arkansas 3-1
22 West Virginia 2-1
23 Illinois 4-0
24 Georgia Tech 4-0
25 Michigan State 3-1

NFL Week 2 Predictions

*Big Game
**Game of the Week


Oakland Raiders (1-0) v.s. Buffalo Bills (1-0) (BUF -4)
     Both teams had impressive wins last week. The key in this game will be whether the Oakland defense is able to slow down the Bills passing game. The Raider defense really minimized Kyle Orton last week, but Fitzpatrick is a better quarterback than Orton. I think that the Bills have a little bit more mojo going and there fans are going to be amped with a 2-0 start to the season on the line.
Buffalo 20-17
Spread: Oakland


*Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) v.s. Detroit Lions (1-0) (DET -9)
      The Lions had a huge win last week at Tampa Bay while the Chiefs had a miserable performance against Buffalo. The Lions have the edge because they can get after the quarterback and Matt Cassel looked indecisive last week against Buffalo. The Chiefs will need to play better defense and get after Matt Stafford in order to win. I think the Lions are too balanced and too stout defensively to lose, but Jamaal Charles and the Chiefs will have a better performance than last week.
Detroit 28-20
Spread: Kansas City


Baltimore Ravens (1-0) v.s. Tennessee Titans (0-1) (BAL -7)
     If the Titans couldn't manufacture more than 14 points against the Jaguars, then how are they going to be able to score against the Ravens defense. Obviously the the Titans will need more than 24 yards from Chris Johnson and they will also need to step up their defense because Joe Flacco and Anquan Boldin are in synch on offense. Too much Ray Rice, too much Ray Lewis, not nearly enough Chris Johnson, the Ravens win easily.
Baltimore 27-6
Spread: Baltimore 


Cleveland Browns (0-1) v.s. Indianapolis Colts (0-1) (CLE -2)
     The Colts will try to rebound after a blow out loss to the Texans and the Browns will look to get in the win column after losing to Cincinnati. The key in this game is whether or not the Colts play inspired defense because they looked like they had no idea what they were doing on defense last week. The Colts are going to come out with something to prove against Cleveland and Colt McCoy won't be able to do quite enough to lead the Browns to victory.
Indianapolis 20-17
Spread: Indianapolis


Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) v.s. Minnesota Vikings (0-1) (MIN -3)
     The one thing the Buccaneers struggled with last week was stopping Matt Stafford and the Lions passing attack. Well now they face Donovan McNabb who passed for a mere 39 passing yards last week. The Buccaneers can slow down Adrian Peterson and they should be able to frustrate Donovan McNabb all day. Tampa will put up just enough points to pull out the victory.
Tamp Bay 23-14


*New Orleans Saints (0-1) v.s. Chicago Bears (1-0) (NO -7)
     The Bears may have been the most impressive team in the NFL last week in their win against the Falcons. But now they travel to New Orleans where the Saints need a win after falling to Green Bay. Drew Brees and the offense will play just about as well as they did last week and the Saints will force some crucial turnovers to take down the Bears.
New Orleans 30-17
Spread: New Orleans 


Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) v.s. New York Jets (0-1) (NYJ -9)
     The Jets are capable of getting stops and turnovers when it counts. If they can do it to Tony Romo they can certainly do the same with Luke McCown. The Jets will slow down Maurice Jones-Drew and the Jets will take care of business early against the Jaguars.
New York 24-10
Spread: New York


Seattle Seahawks (0-1) v.s. Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) (PIT -15)
     To put it as simply as I can, if the Steelers want to be serious contenders again, they cannot lose to the Seahawks. And they won't. Seattle is too anemic offensively to give Pittsburgh a run for their money.
Pittsburgh 24-10
Spread: Seattle


Arizona Cardinals (1-0) v.s. Washington Redskins (1-0) (WSH -4) 
     I was really impressed with the Redskins last week and I wasn't really impressed with the Cardinals. Kevin Kolb will need to find a way to get the ball into Larry Fitzgerald's hand more than last week and they will need to strike early to try to take away some of the balance that the Redskins had last week. I don't see Arizona doing enough to beat the Redskins as Rex Grossman has another impressive performance.
Washington 26-20
Spread: Washington


Green Bay Packers (1-0) v.s. Carolina Panthers (0-1) (GB -11)
      Cam Newton was very impressive in his first start last week, but now he is facing a different beast in the Packers defense. I expect Clay Matthews to go off on a weak Carolina offensive line. I also expect Cam Newton to have a tough day because Carolina will not be able to run the ball. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers will put this one away early.
Green Bay 34-17
Spread: Green Bay


*Dallas Cowboys (0-1) v.s. San Francisco 49ers (1-0) (DAL -3)
     The Cowboys were so close to pulling it out against the Jets but yet they are so far away. They can take a big step with a win in San Francisco today, but the 49ers will not be a push over. They have a good defense but it will come down to whether or not Alex Smith protects the ball and puts points up on the board. The Cowboys come through late and pull out a close win.
Dallas 23-18
Spread: Dallas


*San Diego Chargers (1-0) v.s. New England Patriots (1-0) (NE -7)
     Two of the best offenses square off in Foxboro. Last year when these teams met, the Chargers literally gave the game to New England. I think that if the Chargers turn the ball over more than once, the Patriots are so good that they will capitalize and take the Chargers right out of the game just like the Patriots took the Dolphins right out of the game last Monday. San Diego stays in it for a half or maybe even three quarters but turnovers get to them and the Patriots win again.
New England 34-24
Spread: New England


Cincinnati Bengals (1-0) v.s. Denver Broncos (0-1) (DEN -4)
     This is one of the tougher games to call. The pressure is all on Kyle Orton because with a loss this week, Tim Tebow may be in week 3. I think that Orton and the offense play alright but the defense steps up and wins a crucial home game against Cincinnati.
Denver 21-14
Spread: Denver


Houston Texans (1-0) v.s. Miami Dolphins (0-1) (HOU -3)
     It must be frustrating to watch the Dolphins at home if you're a Dolphin fan. It will probably get even more frustrating if the Dolphins defense isn't up to the task of stopping Matt Schaub. I think that for the Dolphins to win, Chad Henne needs to have another stellar performance and the defense will need to slow down the run first and make the Houston offense predictable in order to force turnovers. I think Miami keeps it close but Houston's offense will be too much for the struggling Miami defense.
Houston 31-28 OT
Spread: Miami


**Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) v.s. Atlanta Falcons (0-1) (PHI -3)
     I think the Falcons, at this point in the season, may be the NFL's most overrated team. They are not explosive on offense and their defense doesn't make many big plays. In come the Eagles, who put on a good showing against St. Louis last week. Philly is capable of making big plays from anywhere at any time and those big plays will hurt the Falcons, who will stay in it because of home field advantage and a balanced run-pass attack. Michael Vick and LaSean McCoy will be too much for the Atlanta defense and the Atlanta offense will not put up enough points. Philadelphia, big.
Philadelphia 37-19
Spread: Philadelphia 

*St. Louis Rams (0-1) v.s. New York Giants (0-1) (NYG -7)
     Both of these teams can use a win, but I think the Giants are much more desperate. This team has chaos always swirling around them and I can't imagine the panic that will set in with an 0-2 start. Luckily for the Giants, St. Louis is banged up and I think Sam Bradford will struggle at times in his first Monday Night start. The Giants will pull it out, but it won't be easy.
New York 23-20
Spread: St. Louis 


Last Week: 11-5
Season: 11-5
Last Week against Spread: 11-5
Season: 11-5
Last Week Big Games: 4-1
Season: 4-1
Last Week Big Games against Spread: 5-0
Season: 5-0
Last Week Game of the Week: 1-0
Season: 1-0
Last Week Game of the Week against Spread: 0-1
Season: 0-1

College Football- Week 3 Predictions

Washington v.s. 12 Nebraska
     Taylor Martinez ran all over the Huskies last season, so he should be able to do it again right? Well I think that Washington steps up the defense and Washington quarterback Keith Price keeps them in the game. But Nebraska will find a way to win at home. 
Nebraska 26-21


6 Stanford v.s. Arizona
     I expect a shoot out in the desert. I'm going to pick Stanford because I can't see Andrew Luck being slowed down even though I would put them on upset alert. 
Stanford 44-35


21 Auburn v.s. Clemson
     Auburn has escaped with victories the last two weeks but they are not going to escape a third time because Clemson will be upstart at home and put up some points on a shaky Auburn defense.
Clemson 38-27


Tennessee v.s. 16 Florida
     I don't feel like Florida is for real and I feel like Tennessee is heading in the right direction. I'm calling the upset; the Vols are going to escape the Swamp with a win.
Tennessee 27-24


3 LSU v.s. 25 Mississippi State
     LSU has the kind of defense that could win them the national championship. They'll survive their first SEC road test.
LSU 23-13


17 Ohio State v.s. Miami Hurricanes
     Both of these programs have obviously had controversy swirling around them for the last year. So who will win the battle of the dishonest? I'm picking Miami because they need to get in the win column and Ohio State looked terrible last week against Toledo. The Cane's are at home and they'll get the win.
Miami 28-19


15 Michigan State v.s. Notre Dame
     I don't think there is any team in the nation that needs a win like Notre Dame does. Last week was heartbreaking and it doesn't get any easier with Kirk Cousins and Michigan State coming to town. I just don't like the way Notre Dame is playing and the combination of poor defense in big situations and turnovers will hurt the Irish once again.
Michigan State 29-24


Game of the Week
1 Oklahoma v.s. 5 Florida State
     This game was all Oklahoma last year. But this year, the game is in Florida State and E.J. Manuel is at quarterback to spark the Seminoles. I think if the Seminoles were to win this game, it would mean they are officially back after a few down seasons. That being said, I don't think Florida State matches up well with Oklahoma and I see the Sooners forcing a few turnovers to put Landry Jones and Ryan Broyles in great field position all day. 
Oklahoma 34-23


Last Week: 4-4
Season: 7-8
Game of the Week: 1-1


Top 25 After Week 3 
1 Oklahoma 2-0
2 Alabama 3-0
3 LSU 3-0
4 Boise State 2-0
5 Stanford 3-0
6 Wisconsin 3-0
7 Oklahoma State 3-0
8 Texas A&M 2-0
9 South Carolina 3-0
10 Florida State 2-1
11 Nebraska 3-0
12 Oregon 2-1
13 Michigan State 3-0
14 Virginia Tech 3-0
15 Arkansas 3-0 
16 West Virginia 3-0
17 Baylor 2-0
18 South Florida 3-0
19 Arizona State 3-0
20 TCU 1-1
21 Texas 3-0
22 Michigan 3-0
23 Tennessee 3-0
24 Florida 2-1
25 USC 3-0

NBA Future Predictions and 10 Things that would Make the Next Decade Great

10 Ricky Rubio Becomes a Star 

     
     Point guards can be the most exciting players in the NBA and Ricky Rubio is hyped up to be the next Steve Nash. I hope Rubio doesn't bust because if he is an All-Star caliber player, the league will benefit from an even greater following from Europe.
9 Steve Nash to the Miami Heat  



      This probably won't happen, but think about how well Nash could run the Miami offense. Nash is the perfect fit at point guard for the Miami Heat and it might make the Heat the most exciting team to watch in the league's history. 
8 Philadelphia 76ers Resurgence 



     The 76ers are one of the most storied franchises in the NBA and with the rumors of them acquiring Monta Ellis, this would ignite the once proud franchise after the departure of Allen Iverson a few years ago.
7 Boston Celtics Remain Contenders



     We saw over the last couple of seasons how the NBA has benefited from having the Celtics be a contender once again. Obviously if the Celtics put Dwight Howard alongside Rajon Rondo, the Celtics would have a smooth transition from the Big Three to the Big Two of Howard and Rondo.
6 NBA has at least One Cinderella Team Each Season



     March Madness is great in large part to those cinderella teams like George Mason. The NBA, of all the leagues in pro and collegiate sports, have the lowest amount of those cinderella teams. Well not last year because the NBA has the Memphis Grizzlies upset the top seeded Spurs and the veteran Dallas Mavericks knock off the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals. The NBA is a league driven by the big market teams, but in order to keep the interest in tact in cities like Memphis, those upsets need to happen or else this league might as well turn into the NHL back in the 1950's when they had 6 teams.
5 Kyrie Irving Becomes the Next Big Time Point Guard 



     The entire city of Cleveland is still angry about the loss of LeBron. But here comes Kyrie Irving. Irving can be a hero to the city if he can change things for the Cavaliers. And maybe the Cavaliers one day will challenge LeBron James and the Heat.
4 Los Angeles Clippers Become Title Contenders



     It is time for the Clippers. They can become the next big thing in the NBA. They play in one of the biggest markets, they have a super star player and they are starting to mold a supporting cast. Just imagine a Western Conference Finals matchup between the Clippers and Lakers. 
3 Kevin Durant Becomes the Face of the NBA



     Durant is already turning into a quiet ambassador of the game. He reminds me of Tim Duncan, except Durant has the time of dynamic game that LeBron James has. He is the perfect person to become the face of the NBA because if anyone in the NBA is a proper role model, Kevin Durant is the one. 
2 Dwight Howard to the Los Angeles Lakers 



     Just like I said that it is important that the Celtics remain relevant, the Lakers must continue to be a contender as well. Dwight Howard is a great fit for the Lakers because along with being a super star player, he is a big time personality similar to Shaquille O'Neal which would be perfect for the Lakers and the NBA.
1 Chris Paul to the New York Knicks



     The New York Knicks now have Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire. Add Chris Paul and you have a better trio than the Miami Heat have. Imagine the New York Knicks squaring off against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals or against the Los Angeles Lakers with Dwight Howard in the NBA Finals. Now that's what I'm talking about.

Predictions for the Future
     I'm going to try my best to predict what will happen in the near future in the NBA. Some of the predictions are based off what I want and dream of happening, but I try not to get too excited.

2011-2012 Season
No Season- A year off will mean another year LeBron James doesn't win a title, so it's not all bad. Plus, now the NHL will be center stage.

2012-2013 Season
Offseason Moves 
- Chris Paul is Traded to the Knicks while Landry Fields and many, many draft picks head to New Orleans
- Dwight Howard is Traded to the Lakers for Andrew Bynum and many draft picks and prospects
- Monta Ellis is Traded to Philadelphia for Andre Iguodala 
- Tony Parker is Traded to the Clippers for draft picks 
- Steve Nash is Traded to Dallas
- Harrison Barnes, Michael Gilchrist, Jared Sullinger and Andre Drummond flourish as rookies
Regular Season

LeBron James

East                            West
1 Miami                      1 Los Angeles 
2 New York               2 Oklahoma City
3 Chicago                   3 Portland
4 Philadelphia            4 Dallas
5 Boston                     5 Memphis
6 Indiana                   6 Los Angeles 
7 New Jersey             7 Denver 
8 Atlanta                    8 San Antonio 
Playoffs
Quarters
1)Miami over 8)Atlanta 4-0
2)New York over 7)New Jersey 4-2
3)Chicago over 6)Indiana 4-2

Carmelo Anthony

4)Philadelphia over 5)Boston 4-3


1)Los Angeles over 8)San Antonio 4-0
2)Oklahoma City over 7)Denver 4-1
3)Portland over 6)Los Angeles 4-2
5)Memphis over 4)Dallas 4-1
Semis
1)Miami over 4)Philadelphia 4-0

Kobe Bryant

2)New York over 3)Chicago 4-2


1)Los Angeles over 5)Memphis 4-0
2)Oklahoma City over 3)Portland 4-2
Conference Finals
1)Miami over 2)New York 4-3


1)Los Angeles over 2)Oklahoma City 4-2


NBA Finals
Los Angeles over Miami 4-3 
Finals MVP: Dwight Howard, Lakers


     Kobe Bryant will win his sixth championship in 2013 when the Lakers edge the Heat in Miami in seven games. Dwight Howard is the difference maker while LeBron doesn't come up clutch when it really matters.

2013-2014 Season
Offseason Moves
- Josh Smith is Traded to Chicago 
- Russell Westbrook is Traded to Detroit 

LaMarcus Aldridge

Regular Season
East                               West
1 New York                  1 Los Angeles
2 Miami                         2 Portland
3 Chicago                      3 Los Angeles
4 Washington               4 Oklahoma City
5 Philadelphia              5 Minnesota
6 New Jersey                6 Memphis
7 Charlotte                   7 Golden State
8 Detroit                        8 Sacramento
Playoffs
Quarters
1)New York over 8)Detroit 4-2
2)Miami over 7)Charlotte 4-1

John Wall

6)New Jersey over 3)Chicago 4-2
4)Washington over 5)Philadelphia 4-1


1)Los Angeles over 8)Sacramento 4-1
7)Golden State over 2)Portland 4-2
3)Los Angeles over 6)Memphis 4-1
4)Oklahoma City over 5)Minnesota 4-3
Semis
1)New York over 6)New Jersey 4-2
2)Miami over 4)Washington 4-1


1)Los Angeles over 7)Golden State 4-1
3)Los Angeles over 4)Oklahoma City 4-2
Conference Finals
1)New York over 2)Miami 4-3

Amare Stoudemire

1)Los Angeles over 3)Los Angeles 4-1


NBA Finals
New York over Los Angeles 4-2 
Finals MVP: Carmelo Anthony, Knicks


     The Knicks will finally win another championship. It will be a thrilling playoff featuring an all Los Angeles conference Finals and a Knicks/Heat extravaganza. The Finals is the climax and the big three of the Knicks will take down Dwight Howard, Pau Gasol and an aging Kobe Bryant in six games.

2014-2015 Season
Regular Season
East                                     West

Deron Williams 

1 Miami                               1 Portland
2 New York                        2 Oklahoma City
3 Chicago                            3 Los Angeles 
4 New Jersey                      4 Minnesota 
5 Charlotte                          5 Sacramento
6 Detroit                              6 Golden State
7 Washington                     7 Los Angeles
8 Cleveland                         8 Memphis
Playoffs
Quarters
1)Miami over 8)Cleveland 4-1
7)Washington over 2)New York 4-2

Kevin Love 

3)Chicago over 6)Detroit 4-3
4)New Jersey over 5)Charlotte 4-2


1)Portland over 8)Memphis 4-1
2)Oklahoma City over 7)Los Angeles 4-2 
3)Los Angeles over 6)Golden State 4-3
4)Minnesota over 5)Sacramento 4-1
Semis
1)Miami over 7)Washington 4-2
3)Chicago over 4)New Jersey 4-3

Derrick Rose 

4)Minnesota over 1)Portland 4-1
3)Los Angeles over 2)Oklahoma City 4-2
Conference Finals
3)Chicago over 1)Miami 4-1

3)Los Angeles over 4)Minnesota 4-2


NBA Finals 
Chicago over Los Angeles 4-1
Finals MVP: Derrick Rose, Bulls 


     Derrick Rose will lead the Bulls to their first championship since the Jordan years over Blake Griffin and the upstart Clippers.

2015-2016 Season
Regular Season
East                                      West
1 Miami                                1 Los Angeles

Stephen Curry

2 New York                         2 Oklahoma City
3 Cleveland                          3 Utah
4 Chicago                             4 Golden State
5 Washington                      5 Los Angeles
6 Milwaukee                        6 Phoenix
7 Charlotte                          7 Portland
8 Boston                               8 Minnesota
Playoffs
Quarters
1)Miami over 8)Boston 4-0
2)New York over 7)Charlotte 4-1

Brandon Jennings

3)Cleveland over 6)Milwaukee 4-3
5)Washington over 4)Chicago 4-1


8)Minnesota over 1)Los Angeles 4-3
2)Oklahoma City over 7)Portland 4-2
6)Phoenix over 3)Utah 4-2
4)Golden State over 5)Los Angeles 4-2
Semis
1)Miami over 5)Washington 4-2
2)New York over 3)Cleveland 4-3

4)Golden State over 8)Minnesota 4-1
2)Oklahoma City over 6)Phoenix 4-0
Conference Finals
1)Miami over 2)New York 4-2

Dwyane Wade 

2)Oklahoma City over 4)Golden State 4-2 


NBA Finals 
Miami over Oklahoma City 4-2
Finals MVP: Dwyane Wade, Heat


     At long last, the Miami Heat finally win a championship over Kevin Duran't Thunder.