WELCOME TO BOSTON:Officially Title Town, USA
Bruins are a team of destiny but feisty Rangers stand in way -Thursday May 16, 2013
It was a Monday night in May that changed everyone's view on hockey in good ol' Beantown. A dreadful 4-1 deficit had your head down texting your buddies about how pissed you were. You began counting the days until football season. Then, all of a sudden a rare roar from the TD Garden crowd was heard. Nathan Horton had trimmed the lead in half with help from a Lucic pass. Alright 4-2 but nothing to jump off the couch about just yet. Late in the 3rd it was Lucic who muscled himself in front of the Toronto net to clean up the garbage and make it 4-3. Okay we might have something here! With seconds left and the Boston net empty, it was the man himself, Patrice Bergeron, who sniped the top left corner of the net from just in front of the blue line to tie the game. The boys in black had done it! The only team in NHL history to come back from 3 goals down in the 3rd period of a game 7.
Then in overtime the momentum continued as the Bruins charged into the offensive zone and battered the Leafs goalie, James Reimer. A rebound sailed a few feet in front of the crease and Bergeron slipped the bun in the oven to notch the series for Boston. One of the best comebacks in Boston sports history unfolded that night in the Garden as the Leafs were sent home shocked. My oh my what a night it was.
Now tonight the focus shifts to round 2 of the playoffs as our old friends the Rangers are in town. They are hot off of steamrolling the Capitals in their own game 7 as they won 5-0 in Washington on Monday night. The Bruins might have the higher seed and home ice advantage in this one but it sure feels as if the Rangers are favored. New York may be playing better and may have a better goalie but a win like the Bruins had Monday can really bring a team together and crazy things can happen. I surely expect the Bruins to come out hard in game 1 because if they don't they'll get tossed around like rag dolls by the big bad Rangers of New York. But you never know what to expect with this group of guys so we'll see how it goes.
PREDICTION
NYR-1
BOS-2
Keys:
1-Be physical (this series will hinge on Lucic and the physical game)
2-Keep the penalty minutes low (without 2 starting defensemen who knows what the penalty kill will look like)
3-Keep the crease clean, young defensemen got to step up (Toronto scored 2 the other night because of this)
Then in overtime the momentum continued as the Bruins charged into the offensive zone and battered the Leafs goalie, James Reimer. A rebound sailed a few feet in front of the crease and Bergeron slipped the bun in the oven to notch the series for Boston. One of the best comebacks in Boston sports history unfolded that night in the Garden as the Leafs were sent home shocked. My oh my what a night it was.
Now tonight the focus shifts to round 2 of the playoffs as our old friends the Rangers are in town. They are hot off of steamrolling the Capitals in their own game 7 as they won 5-0 in Washington on Monday night. The Bruins might have the higher seed and home ice advantage in this one but it sure feels as if the Rangers are favored. New York may be playing better and may have a better goalie but a win like the Bruins had Monday can really bring a team together and crazy things can happen. I surely expect the Bruins to come out hard in game 1 because if they don't they'll get tossed around like rag dolls by the big bad Rangers of New York. But you never know what to expect with this group of guys so we'll see how it goes.
PREDICTION
NYR-1
BOS-2
Keys:
1-Be physical (this series will hinge on Lucic and the physical game)
2-Keep the penalty minutes low (without 2 starting defensemen who knows what the penalty kill will look like)
3-Keep the crease clean, young defensemen got to step up (Toronto scored 2 the other night because of this)
Ding....Ding
Halfway through the season...title run time
Wicked Pissah Preview: Pats-Jets Week 7 -Sunday October 21, 2012
Who would've thought that the 2012 Patriots would be in a must win situation this early in the season? Nobody. Who would've thought the entire AFC East would be deadlocked at 3-3 near the midpoint of the season? Nobody. Well folks those two things are now a reality. Here in week 7 the Pats are looking to defeat a scrubby New York Jets team to gain control of the division.
The worst part of this entire season so far is that the Patriots could very well be atop the NFL with an unblemished 6-0 record. They've had control of each game this year and lost their grip three times. Their first loss was a heartbreaking 2 point loss and the other two losses were both 1 point losses where they lost in the final stage of the game. These habits MUST change and they must change now. Brady and the offense have to be able to close out games and the defense can't let up these big plays anymore. If they do then you can kiss a deep playoff run goodbye.
Now onto Sundays clash with the damn Jets. The Jets are coming off of a big win against the so-so Colts and as usual they're over confident coming into New England. Rex Ryan practically guaranteed a victory and I'm sure Belichick has made the players aware of this. Now I don't think the Jets have a chance in hell in this game. They have a weakened secondary and are ranked 28th in the NFL against the run. New England's top ranked offense should shred gang green's defense apart like a fat man at the buffet line. Brady's patriot missiles will be in full force while Ridley and the running game should gash through New York's D. The fast paced, no-huddle offense of the Pats will be back and should definitely push the Jets over the edge. As for that clownish Patriot secondary, they have me very worried right now but if the Pats can keep forcing keep turnovers they should still be alright. What better way to get confidence in your pass defense than to play against Sanchez and Tebow! I expect a slow start from the Pats but then an explosive attack for the majority of the game (similar to the Buffalo game). LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
JETS-17
PATRIOTS-38
The worst part of this entire season so far is that the Patriots could very well be atop the NFL with an unblemished 6-0 record. They've had control of each game this year and lost their grip three times. Their first loss was a heartbreaking 2 point loss and the other two losses were both 1 point losses where they lost in the final stage of the game. These habits MUST change and they must change now. Brady and the offense have to be able to close out games and the defense can't let up these big plays anymore. If they do then you can kiss a deep playoff run goodbye.
Now onto Sundays clash with the damn Jets. The Jets are coming off of a big win against the so-so Colts and as usual they're over confident coming into New England. Rex Ryan practically guaranteed a victory and I'm sure Belichick has made the players aware of this. Now I don't think the Jets have a chance in hell in this game. They have a weakened secondary and are ranked 28th in the NFL against the run. New England's top ranked offense should shred gang green's defense apart like a fat man at the buffet line. Brady's patriot missiles will be in full force while Ridley and the running game should gash through New York's D. The fast paced, no-huddle offense of the Pats will be back and should definitely push the Jets over the edge. As for that clownish Patriot secondary, they have me very worried right now but if the Pats can keep forcing keep turnovers they should still be alright. What better way to get confidence in your pass defense than to play against Sanchez and Tebow! I expect a slow start from the Pats but then an explosive attack for the majority of the game (similar to the Buffalo game). LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
JETS-17
PATRIOTS-38
Wicked Pissah Preview: Pats-Seahawks Week 6 -Friday October 12, 2012
Seattle will be rockin' for this matchup this Sunday in the rainy home of the Space Needle. However the amazing Tom Brady looks to shut up the loudest stadium in the NFL (which he has still not played at in his legendary career). This game could be very similar to the Arizona match back in September but New England's offense has matured since then so I wouldn't expect Brady and company to come out as flat.
The Seattle defense has allowed the fewest yards per game in the NFL this season and the Pats offense racks up the most yardage a game so this game will be very interesting. An unstoppable force will meet an immovable object in the pouring, west coast, rain. Stevan Ridley should have a decent game but don't look for the Patriots to run the rock as much as they have been. If Brady can conduct the offense to at least a 30 point game then New England should coast to a victory.
I believe that the struggling Patriot defense will be able to shutdown all-pro running back Marshawn Lynch. The run stoppers have halted opponents to an average of 82.2 rushing yards per game. If Lynch struggles then the Pats should win...period. Seahawks' rookie QB Russell Wilson has been taking a beating thus far in 2012 and I think Chandler Jones and Rob Ninkovich will keep the trend going this weekend. The Pats defense has been forcing fumbles left and right this season and that's the only reason why this defensive unit has had any success. The turnovers have been huge for this team and if they win the turnover battle this week there is no way they lose. New England may have their "unfortunate moments" in Seattle but I think that they'll win fairly easily and move onto 4-2 as they take on the damn Jets next week. LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
PATRIOTS-27
SEAHAWKS-16
The Seattle defense has allowed the fewest yards per game in the NFL this season and the Pats offense racks up the most yardage a game so this game will be very interesting. An unstoppable force will meet an immovable object in the pouring, west coast, rain. Stevan Ridley should have a decent game but don't look for the Patriots to run the rock as much as they have been. If Brady can conduct the offense to at least a 30 point game then New England should coast to a victory.
I believe that the struggling Patriot defense will be able to shutdown all-pro running back Marshawn Lynch. The run stoppers have halted opponents to an average of 82.2 rushing yards per game. If Lynch struggles then the Pats should win...period. Seahawks' rookie QB Russell Wilson has been taking a beating thus far in 2012 and I think Chandler Jones and Rob Ninkovich will keep the trend going this weekend. The Pats defense has been forcing fumbles left and right this season and that's the only reason why this defensive unit has had any success. The turnovers have been huge for this team and if they win the turnover battle this week there is no way they lose. New England may have their "unfortunate moments" in Seattle but I think that they'll win fairly easily and move onto 4-2 as they take on the damn Jets next week. LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
PATRIOTS-27
SEAHAWKS-16
Patriots' offense showing great balance -Monday October 8, 2012
How much better can this offense get? They already have a 4 back rotation, led by the legs of young star Stevan Ridley, that can crush any opposing defense's spirits. This surprising running attack mixed with the no huddle style of the Pats is the perfect one-two punch to knock out a defense. Not to mention that the guy lined up under center is pretty good, you may have hear of him (wow).
After 5 weeks I think it's fairly safe to say that the Patriots have a legitimate running game. Second year running back Stevan Ridley has rushed for 490 yards and is on pace to break Corey Dillon's franchise record of 1635 rushing yards set in 2004. This offense has certainly taken on a 2004-esque style of play as well. They've balanced things out perfectly and this should strike fear into the rest of the league.
The scariest thing is that the Patriots' best offensive weapon, Aaron Hernandez, may be back as soon as next week against Seattle. With him back in the mix the passing game will greatly open back up. I honestly cannot think of a way that this offense can get any better. When you've got two all-pro wide receivers, two all-pro tight ends, a hall of fame quarterback, and a stable of running backs that can gash a defense for over 200 yards a game what else do you really need?
This may seem crazy but this offense may be more valuable than the all legendary 2007 Patriots' offense and here's why. In 2007 and even in 2010 the Patriots were all passing. When the postseason finally came around defenses brought the house on Brady and shut down New England's aerial attack. Without an aerial attack the Patriots were nothing. Fast-forward to 2012 and the Pats have a running game again. If Brady is struggling tossing the rock or is under pressure then he can rely on his running backs to create a spark in the ground attack. As the team heads into week 6 to take on Seattle they remain in first for points per game and yards per game. Keep calm and Brady on! Rock out with your Gronk out! Ridley believe it or not!
After 5 weeks I think it's fairly safe to say that the Patriots have a legitimate running game. Second year running back Stevan Ridley has rushed for 490 yards and is on pace to break Corey Dillon's franchise record of 1635 rushing yards set in 2004. This offense has certainly taken on a 2004-esque style of play as well. They've balanced things out perfectly and this should strike fear into the rest of the league.
The scariest thing is that the Patriots' best offensive weapon, Aaron Hernandez, may be back as soon as next week against Seattle. With him back in the mix the passing game will greatly open back up. I honestly cannot think of a way that this offense can get any better. When you've got two all-pro wide receivers, two all-pro tight ends, a hall of fame quarterback, and a stable of running backs that can gash a defense for over 200 yards a game what else do you really need?
This may seem crazy but this offense may be more valuable than the all legendary 2007 Patriots' offense and here's why. In 2007 and even in 2010 the Patriots were all passing. When the postseason finally came around defenses brought the house on Brady and shut down New England's aerial attack. Without an aerial attack the Patriots were nothing. Fast-forward to 2012 and the Pats have a running game again. If Brady is struggling tossing the rock or is under pressure then he can rely on his running backs to create a spark in the ground attack. As the team heads into week 6 to take on Seattle they remain in first for points per game and yards per game. Keep calm and Brady on! Rock out with your Gronk out! Ridley believe it or not!
Wicked Pissah Preview: Pats-Broncos Week 5 -Saturday October 6, 2012
November 21, 2010 at Gillette Stadium. That was the last time we saw Peyton Manning take on Tom Brady in this classic, decade long rivalry. However this time it isn't Patriots vs Colts, due to Peyton's migration to Denver. This game should be an offensive shootout despite cold, rainy conditions in Foxboro on Sunday. The Pats are coming off of a 247 yard rushing performance against Buffalo but those stats will be very difficult to repeat against a stiff Broncos defense. Patriots' TE Aaron Hernandez was promoted to questionable this week after participating in practice. Now this doesn't mean he'll play but it's definitely something to think about considering he had two monster games against them last year. The Denver defense may create a few speed bumps for Tom Brady on this wet Sunday but expect him to still be "Tom Terrific" out there. As for "Tom Terrific's" arch nemesis Peyton Manning, he should have a great game as well. The Pats defense hasn't showed us that they have matured from last season when it comes to the passing game so Manning will most likely gave a field day. The rain should not affect either team's aerial attack but I will not be surprised if the Pats get run happy in this game (hopefully no Woodhead carries on 3rd and 6). Don't be surprised if this one comes down to the final drive because after all this is Brady vs Peyton. This will mark the 13th episode of the Manning-Brady series and it should be one to remember because it may very well be the series finale.
PREDICTION
BRONCOS-24
PATRIOTS-32
PREDICTION
BRONCOS-24
PATRIOTS-32
Wicked Pissah Preview: Pats-Bills Week 4 -Saturday September 29, 2012
After two consecutive losses the Patriots are in a hole early on in this 2012 season. The most frustrating thing is that the Pats could easily be 3-0 at this point after losing both games on the final play. But this is a new week with a new opponent. Tom Brady and company will be facing off against the 2-1 Buffalo Bills in the Pats first divisional matchup of 2012. I expect Brady to tear apart the overrated Buffalo defense despite the absence of a few of his offensive weapons. Wes Welker and Rob Gronkowski will both have a field day on offense in what I expect to be a fairly easy win. Now don't get me wrong, I think Buffalo is a very solid team this year but the Patriots are pretty pissed off to this point and some frustration is about to be taken out (or as Captain Insano would say "they're about to open a can of whoop-ass"). The questionable New England defense should be able to contain banged up running back Fred Jackson but I really do not know what to expect with this defense just yet. I am however highly concerned about the Patriot's pass defense as it comes off a horrendous performance in Baltimore. This defense needs to step up and take some slack off Tom Brady and this is a perfect game to make a statement. I'd like to see rookie Chandler Jones get to Buffalo QB Ryan Fitzpatrick a few times tomorrow in this game. It seems a little bit of panic has set into Patriot Nation but I recommend those fans sit back and relax here. This team will be just fine, trust me I'm a blogger (I know ..lame). LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
PATS-38
BILLS-23
PREDICTION
PATS-38
BILLS-23
Pats tear apart Titans with ease -Tuesday September 11, 2012
The Pats marched into hot and humid Tennessee to begin their 2012 campaign after a tragic ending to their previous season where they came one play from winning a 4th Super Bowl title. Tom Brady was protected well in this game by his offensive line despite his nose injury early in the game. Brady tossed for 236 yards and 2 touchdowns in this victory. Those 2 touchdowns were thrown to both of New England's game-changing tight ends, Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski. The two biggest surprises in this game were Stevan Ridley and the dominance of the Pats young defense. Ridley rushed for a career high 125 yards as he gashed through the Tennessee defense like a spoon through jello. If young Ridley can rush like this consistently then this Patriots team will twice as dangerous as before. Now onto the defensive play of the Patriots. Three of the Patriots rookie draft picks made huge contributions towards this win. Safety Tavon Wilson made an impressive interception in the endzone as Jake Locker tried to catch the secondary sleeping. That pick killed all of the Titan's momentum and was the turning point of the game. Later on Chandler Jones demolished Locker in the backfield causing a fumble which was scooped up by fellow rookie Dont'a Hightower and brought into the endzone for a touchdown. Not a bad way to start your NFL career. The Pats cruised to a 34-13 win over Tennessee and will return home this week to take on the Arizona Cardinals.
Preseason Game 1 Report Card -Saturday August 11, 2012
Patriots 7, Saints 6
QB: D, Brady barely played but when he did he was average at best, Hoyer had one decent drive that led to a TD pass but he was terrible most of the time, Mallett seemed very uncomfortable and he looked like a rookie out there instead of a 2nd year player.
RB: B-, The running game wasn't explosive at all but Stevan Ridley and Shane Vareen showed me some very positive things. They could end up being quite the tandem if they can both stay healthy. We have seen Ridley have great games before and I look forward to seeing more of Vareen next week.
WR/TE: C-, Nothing much happened in the passing game at all Thursday night. Gronk and Hernandez had a few small yardage grabs but nothing much at all in the recieving game. On the negative side Brandon Lloyd let a couple big plays slip away from him.
O-Line: F, Several holding calls and strip sack on Brady made this offensive line look like swiss cheese against New Orleans. The greatest worry on this Patriots team is the offensive line but the return of all-pro Logan Mankins next week should make them a lot stronger.
D-line: B+, Chandler Jones alone gets an A for the pressure he created during his limited playing time. This guy is a beast coming off the end and I expect huge things from him. The rest of the defensive line played great too stuffing Nola's running game all night. Two standout players were Chandler Jones and Kyle Love.
LB: B, The linebackers had a very solid game in their preseason opener. Jerod Mayo, Rob Ninkovich, and rookie Dont'a Hightower all made impacts on the turf but their performances were overshadowed by the loss of Dane Fletcher who suffered a season ending knee injury. Fletcher is a young and talented linebacker who provides great depth at the position for New England, he will be missed.
DB: B, I was very happy with what I saw from the defensive backs on Thursday night at Gillette. Second year corner Ras-I Dowling looked great out there shutting down his assigment almost every play. If he can stay healthy this year then he will help out this defense greatly. Steve Gregory and Pat Chung both recorded big interceptions while holding the Saints touchdown-less. We may see a lot from Gregory and Chung this year because they could very well be lined up next to one another as the teams starting safeties.
Player of the Game: #95 DE Chandler Jones
QB: D, Brady barely played but when he did he was average at best, Hoyer had one decent drive that led to a TD pass but he was terrible most of the time, Mallett seemed very uncomfortable and he looked like a rookie out there instead of a 2nd year player.
RB: B-, The running game wasn't explosive at all but Stevan Ridley and Shane Vareen showed me some very positive things. They could end up being quite the tandem if they can both stay healthy. We have seen Ridley have great games before and I look forward to seeing more of Vareen next week.
WR/TE: C-, Nothing much happened in the passing game at all Thursday night. Gronk and Hernandez had a few small yardage grabs but nothing much at all in the recieving game. On the negative side Brandon Lloyd let a couple big plays slip away from him.
O-Line: F, Several holding calls and strip sack on Brady made this offensive line look like swiss cheese against New Orleans. The greatest worry on this Patriots team is the offensive line but the return of all-pro Logan Mankins next week should make them a lot stronger.
D-line: B+, Chandler Jones alone gets an A for the pressure he created during his limited playing time. This guy is a beast coming off the end and I expect huge things from him. The rest of the defensive line played great too stuffing Nola's running game all night. Two standout players were Chandler Jones and Kyle Love.
LB: B, The linebackers had a very solid game in their preseason opener. Jerod Mayo, Rob Ninkovich, and rookie Dont'a Hightower all made impacts on the turf but their performances were overshadowed by the loss of Dane Fletcher who suffered a season ending knee injury. Fletcher is a young and talented linebacker who provides great depth at the position for New England, he will be missed.
DB: B, I was very happy with what I saw from the defensive backs on Thursday night at Gillette. Second year corner Ras-I Dowling looked great out there shutting down his assigment almost every play. If he can stay healthy this year then he will help out this defense greatly. Steve Gregory and Pat Chung both recorded big interceptions while holding the Saints touchdown-less. We may see a lot from Gregory and Chung this year because they could very well be lined up next to one another as the teams starting safeties.
Player of the Game: #95 DE Chandler Jones
2012 NFL Predictions up under "PATS" Tab, check it out!!
2012 NFL Preview: AFC East July 29, 2012
Patriots: The best offense in the league just got even better with the additions of WR's Brandon Lloyd, Jabar Gaffney, and Donte Stallworth. If New England can manage to get the ground game going with Stevan Ridley and Shane Vareen then this offense will have the potential to be one of the greatest ever. Imagine being a defensive coordinator trying to gameplan for Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Wes Welker, and Brandon Lloyd? You would have nightmares! And I didn't even mention Tom Brady. So offensively there is nothing to worry about there besides the running game. The defense is the one thing keeping this team from being the ultimate team. The additions of DE Chandler Jones and LB Dont'a Hightower were absolutely brilliant in the draft and I believe they could make immediate impacts on the defensive side of the football. It's not the front 7 that I'm worried about however, it's the very weak secondary that will be depending on Devin McCourty to return to all-pro status. He was phenomenal in his rookie season but last year he was as lost as a freshman on the first day of school. This team is already scary good but if this defense can come together then watch out. POWER: 10
Jets: Sanchez or Tebow? Tebow or Sanchez? There's something you'll be hearing over and over for the next several months and the funniest thing is that neither of them are even any good. The offense of the New York Jets could be disastrous this season, that would explain why RB Ladainian Tomlinson retired. I have no idea how coach Rex Ryan will fix this mess but it will be entertaining to see. The main component of this offense is the "ground n' pound" running game which had great success in 2009 but in the past 2 seasons it has faltered very greatly. The Jets have become weaker each season under Rex Ryan and I believe that trend will continue in 2012. The Tebow-Sanchez drama is a ticking time bomb and it will detonate when Sanchez struggles and the crowd begins to chant Tebow's name. A disaster is brewing in New York and it's gonna be one ugly green mess. POWER: 6.5
Bills: Possibly the most improved NFL team coming into 2012. They stacked up their defensive line with all-pro DE Mario Williams (5 sacks in 5 games in 2011) and sack machine Mark Anderson (10 sacks in 2011 with NE). The only way any team can win this division is by capturing the king (Tom Brady) and Buffalo is trying to do just that. This deadly combination of pass rushers could be giving Brady headaches twice a year and it's such a brilliant move by the Bills. If they can run the ball with Spiller and Jackson as effectively as they did in 2011 and play great defense then the Bills may finally make their return to the postseason. The key to Buffalo's season however is QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, he is the 2nd best quarterback in the AFC East and he must play like it. POWER: 7.5
Dolphins: The stars of this year's HBO "Hard Knocks" should live it up while they can during their time on camera this August because it's all down hill from there for these Dolphins. They are still rebuilding and will suffer greatly in 2012. The quest for the next Dan Marino continues and the next test is rookie QB Ryan Tannehill. The only relevant sporting event in Miami this fall will be the NBA opening night game between the Celtics and Heat.
POWER: 3.5
Jets: Sanchez or Tebow? Tebow or Sanchez? There's something you'll be hearing over and over for the next several months and the funniest thing is that neither of them are even any good. The offense of the New York Jets could be disastrous this season, that would explain why RB Ladainian Tomlinson retired. I have no idea how coach Rex Ryan will fix this mess but it will be entertaining to see. The main component of this offense is the "ground n' pound" running game which had great success in 2009 but in the past 2 seasons it has faltered very greatly. The Jets have become weaker each season under Rex Ryan and I believe that trend will continue in 2012. The Tebow-Sanchez drama is a ticking time bomb and it will detonate when Sanchez struggles and the crowd begins to chant Tebow's name. A disaster is brewing in New York and it's gonna be one ugly green mess. POWER: 6.5
Bills: Possibly the most improved NFL team coming into 2012. They stacked up their defensive line with all-pro DE Mario Williams (5 sacks in 5 games in 2011) and sack machine Mark Anderson (10 sacks in 2011 with NE). The only way any team can win this division is by capturing the king (Tom Brady) and Buffalo is trying to do just that. This deadly combination of pass rushers could be giving Brady headaches twice a year and it's such a brilliant move by the Bills. If they can run the ball with Spiller and Jackson as effectively as they did in 2011 and play great defense then the Bills may finally make their return to the postseason. The key to Buffalo's season however is QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, he is the 2nd best quarterback in the AFC East and he must play like it. POWER: 7.5
Dolphins: The stars of this year's HBO "Hard Knocks" should live it up while they can during their time on camera this August because it's all down hill from there for these Dolphins. They are still rebuilding and will suffer greatly in 2012. The quest for the next Dan Marino continues and the next test is rookie QB Ryan Tannehill. The only relevant sporting event in Miami this fall will be the NBA opening night game between the Celtics and Heat.
POWER: 3.5
2012 NFL Preview: NFC North July 20, 2012
Packers: A team that should have made their way to Indianapolis for the Super Bowl this past season but a poor game against the Giants at home cost them a chance at back to back titles. But with the majority of the team returning this year there is no reason to doubt that they can get to the Super Bowl again. With last years MVP, Aaron Rodgers, under center you obviously have to love their chances. Mr. Rodgers is an insanely accurate QB and his ability to gain yardage with his feet makes him the ultimate double threat in the NFL. The Green Bay offense was for the most part unstoppable last year and nothing should change this year as they remain one of the elite offenses in the league. Similar to the New England Patriots, they have that elite offense but a very shaky defense but they try to hide the fact with their great pass rush led by sack machine Clay Mathews. Playmakers like Mathews and CB Charles Woodson make this defense one to be afraid of despite the large amount yards they have given up in the past. I'd be very surprised if the Packers don't end up with a bye week in January. POWER: 10
Lions: The Detroit Lions shocked the nation last year as they rose from the dead and racked up 10 wins on their way to the postseason. The combination of Matt Stafford to Calvin Johnson may be the number one QB-WR combo in the NFL right now but I don't feel they have any other firepower on that offense. Their running game is iffy and I don't have much faith in any other of their WR's. Defensively they can be brilliant at times but at other times they look lost. The main problem in Detroit is lack of solid consistent football. With this current team I just don't see them winning 10 games again, especially with a stronger Chicago Bears team out to get them this year. Megatron is no doubt the league's best WR but can he carry the team to the playoffs again? POWER: 7
Bears: It always seems like the Bears have a chance to be a wild card in the playoffs but every season they are riddled with injuries to key players which slow their playoff hopes greatly. Last season QB Jay Cutler was sidelined for the season at a very crucial time. The team managed to finish at 8-8, 2 games behind a playoff spot. Remember just a year before the Bears were hosting the NFC Championship Game at Soldier Field. In fact Jay Cutler was injured in the game and who knows what could've been if he had remained healthy. You can't even rule out that this team could be back to back NFC Champions right now! With a healthy Cutler this team may even have had a Super Bowl to their names. But let's get out of the world of "what if's" because it goes on forever. For 2012, Jay Cutler will have one of his old buddies from Denver back on his side. That buddy is the talented WR Brandon Marshall who really hasn't been great since his old days with Cutler. This can be a very dangerous team when they're healthy, keep an eye on them because they just might be playing deep into January. POWER: 7.5
Vikings: Oh where to begin with the good ol' Vikes. This team is loaded with question marks starting with all-pro RB Adrian Peterson who is recovering from a torn ACL. QB Christian Ponder was pretty solid in his rookie year but he just doesn't have enough help around him. Their only healthy offensive weapon, WR Percy Harvin, has been rumored to be demanding a trade. So who knows what the deal is there. It seems like this team has been in pieces ever since they acquired Randy Moss for a very short time back in 2010. Don't look for the pieces to be picked up this season but do look for Minnesota to have a top 3 draft pick in 2013. POWER: 2
Lions: The Detroit Lions shocked the nation last year as they rose from the dead and racked up 10 wins on their way to the postseason. The combination of Matt Stafford to Calvin Johnson may be the number one QB-WR combo in the NFL right now but I don't feel they have any other firepower on that offense. Their running game is iffy and I don't have much faith in any other of their WR's. Defensively they can be brilliant at times but at other times they look lost. The main problem in Detroit is lack of solid consistent football. With this current team I just don't see them winning 10 games again, especially with a stronger Chicago Bears team out to get them this year. Megatron is no doubt the league's best WR but can he carry the team to the playoffs again? POWER: 7
Bears: It always seems like the Bears have a chance to be a wild card in the playoffs but every season they are riddled with injuries to key players which slow their playoff hopes greatly. Last season QB Jay Cutler was sidelined for the season at a very crucial time. The team managed to finish at 8-8, 2 games behind a playoff spot. Remember just a year before the Bears were hosting the NFC Championship Game at Soldier Field. In fact Jay Cutler was injured in the game and who knows what could've been if he had remained healthy. You can't even rule out that this team could be back to back NFC Champions right now! With a healthy Cutler this team may even have had a Super Bowl to their names. But let's get out of the world of "what if's" because it goes on forever. For 2012, Jay Cutler will have one of his old buddies from Denver back on his side. That buddy is the talented WR Brandon Marshall who really hasn't been great since his old days with Cutler. This can be a very dangerous team when they're healthy, keep an eye on them because they just might be playing deep into January. POWER: 7.5
Vikings: Oh where to begin with the good ol' Vikes. This team is loaded with question marks starting with all-pro RB Adrian Peterson who is recovering from a torn ACL. QB Christian Ponder was pretty solid in his rookie year but he just doesn't have enough help around him. Their only healthy offensive weapon, WR Percy Harvin, has been rumored to be demanding a trade. So who knows what the deal is there. It seems like this team has been in pieces ever since they acquired Randy Moss for a very short time back in 2010. Don't look for the pieces to be picked up this season but do look for Minnesota to have a top 3 draft pick in 2013. POWER: 2
2012 NFL Preview: NFC West July 5, 2012
49ers: Possibly the NFC's best team and they just happen to be in the league's worst division. Last season they we're a play away from reaching the Super Bowl and possibly bringing back glory to the sacred up and down streets of beautiful San Francisco. Not much rebuilding was needed in the offseason but they went out on a limb and signed veteran WR and future Hall of Famer Randy Moss. Now nobody knows how he will do after a treacherous season two years ago and then after taking a season off this previous year but maybe he'll be able to have a productive season under coach Harbaugh who took the league by storm last year in his first season of coaching in the NFL. QB Alex Smith showed the world that he can be a clutch quarterback while leading his squad all the way to the NFC title game. However the real story behind this team is the defense led by the beastly Patrick Willis. Willis is the NFL's best linebacker and he sets the tone every time he takes the field. A dominant defense combined with RB Frank Gore's punishing running style makes the Niners one of the last teams you want to face. If all goes as planned then San Fran could be playing in the big game down in New Orleans next February. POWER: 9
Cardinals: The only bright point on this team is the unbelievable WR Larry Fitzgerald who continues to impress us every season. If only Arizona could get a solid QB they might be able to reach the playoffs. The Cards had a phenomenal offense when the ageless Kurt Warner was around a few years ago so who knows how this team would be if they had another decent gunslinger. To me the Cardinals are basically the Detroit Lions without Matt Stafford which is obviously a huge difference. Who knows, maybe Kevin Kolb can come out guns blazing after his injury riddled season last year. Arizona better hope he can or they will still be known for just the Grand Canyon and iced tea. POWER: 4
Seahawks: New look, new jerseys, new quarterback, same lousy Seahawks. Well I shouldn't be that critical since I haven't actually seen Matt Flynn play more than 2 NFL games. Maybe these Seahawks could bring something to the field. After all they have a beast in the backfield in Marshawn Lynch. Lynch bursts off ridiculous run after ridiculous run, after eating a bag full of Skittles of course! If Flynn and newly acquired receiver Sidney Rice can gel together then this could be a very solid team. However that is asking for a lot and they've still got some rather large holes on offense and defense that they still need to fill. What will happen first in Seattle? A playoff birth or a week without rain?! POWER: 4
Rams: Basically the same team as last season with the additions of WR Steve Smith (from Philly not Carolina) and veteran CB Cortland Finnegan. They lost two major pieces of the offense in WR Brandon Lloyd and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels (both went to New England). They added former New York Jets' coordinator Brian Schottenheimer (that's too bad) and they even got a new general manager. So clearly it's a rebuilding year in St. Louis and I expect them to be flat out horrendous..that is all. POWER: 2
Cardinals: The only bright point on this team is the unbelievable WR Larry Fitzgerald who continues to impress us every season. If only Arizona could get a solid QB they might be able to reach the playoffs. The Cards had a phenomenal offense when the ageless Kurt Warner was around a few years ago so who knows how this team would be if they had another decent gunslinger. To me the Cardinals are basically the Detroit Lions without Matt Stafford which is obviously a huge difference. Who knows, maybe Kevin Kolb can come out guns blazing after his injury riddled season last year. Arizona better hope he can or they will still be known for just the Grand Canyon and iced tea. POWER: 4
Seahawks: New look, new jerseys, new quarterback, same lousy Seahawks. Well I shouldn't be that critical since I haven't actually seen Matt Flynn play more than 2 NFL games. Maybe these Seahawks could bring something to the field. After all they have a beast in the backfield in Marshawn Lynch. Lynch bursts off ridiculous run after ridiculous run, after eating a bag full of Skittles of course! If Flynn and newly acquired receiver Sidney Rice can gel together then this could be a very solid team. However that is asking for a lot and they've still got some rather large holes on offense and defense that they still need to fill. What will happen first in Seattle? A playoff birth or a week without rain?! POWER: 4
Rams: Basically the same team as last season with the additions of WR Steve Smith (from Philly not Carolina) and veteran CB Cortland Finnegan. They lost two major pieces of the offense in WR Brandon Lloyd and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels (both went to New England). They added former New York Jets' coordinator Brian Schottenheimer (that's too bad) and they even got a new general manager. So clearly it's a rebuilding year in St. Louis and I expect them to be flat out horrendous..that is all. POWER: 2
2012 NFL Preview: NFC South July 5, 2012
Saints: "Bounty the quicker picker upper!" Dog the bounty hunter, Boba Fett, Johnathan Vilma. Alright now that all the jokes are out of my system I can now talk some football. Last season the Saints had football's best offense, they were nearly unstoppable. Drew Brees is my 2nd favorite QB in this league, behind 'Tom Terrific' of course! I love tuning in on Sunday nights to watch Brees sling it around in that dome down in New Orleans, he is nearly unbeatable in that Superdome. But since the league has punished these Saints for their "bountygate" problems they are no longer my pick to win this division. No mastermind Sean Payton, no defensive captain Johnathan Vilma, an upset Drew Brees for being franchised tagged for the 2nd time in his career. Those key issues right there just make me think they will be a mediocre team this season. I still believe they could battle for a wild card spot but in this division that will be no easy task. Brees to Jimmy Graham lives on but for this season they will not have Sean Payton..that's almost like the Patriots losing Bill Belichick for a season. POWER: 7.2
Falcons: The dirty birds! Hotlanta has plenty to look forward to this fall with this team. I expect a huge year from QB Matt Ryan who will be another year experienced along with his young receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White. Legendary tight end Tony Gonzalez will be playing his final season in the NFL and I think he's got one last run left in the tank. He'll go out with a bang. If Michael Turner can be productive at running back once again then this offense will be very dangerous once again. Now the offense isn't my worry at all, remember that two seasons ago this offense led the way to a #1 seed in the NFC playoffs. If Atlanta's defense can improve a bit more then this Falcons' squad could be a dominant force. POWER: 7.5
Buccaneers: A team that I believe has all the right pieces and they just beefed up this off-season by adding their own 'big three' consisting of two time Pro Bowl WR Vincent Jackson, all-pro guard Carl Nicks, and the very talented CB Eric Wright. These three moves could turn Tampa Bay into a playoff contending team again. QB Josh Freeman is a fantastic quarterback in my eyes and with the addition of V-Jack at wide receiver he becomes even better. Running back LeGarrette Blount will have to be successful at pounding the rock once again in order for the Bucs to stay alive within the tough NFC South. POWER: 7.5
Panthers: Last years' Rookie of the Year QB Cam Newton revitalized this poor Carolina Panthers team and this season they could even be a wild card contender. That's right, I believe that every single team in this division has a shot at the playoffs. It should be a great battle in the south this season. With the Newton to Smith combination and the two-headed running game of Williams and Stewart how can you hate on this offense? They have more than enough firepower to score on a tough defense so what's the problem? Well the loss of linebacker Jon Beason last season this team was wounded early on. Losing the leader of your defense in the very first game of the season always causes problems for a team and that is just what happened. With the return of Beason this year and with the addition of rookie LB Luke Kuechly from BC their defense will be primed for a major improvement. If the defense can help out Cam Newton's offense this season then these Panthers could be going places! POWER: 6.8
Falcons: The dirty birds! Hotlanta has plenty to look forward to this fall with this team. I expect a huge year from QB Matt Ryan who will be another year experienced along with his young receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White. Legendary tight end Tony Gonzalez will be playing his final season in the NFL and I think he's got one last run left in the tank. He'll go out with a bang. If Michael Turner can be productive at running back once again then this offense will be very dangerous once again. Now the offense isn't my worry at all, remember that two seasons ago this offense led the way to a #1 seed in the NFC playoffs. If Atlanta's defense can improve a bit more then this Falcons' squad could be a dominant force. POWER: 7.5
Buccaneers: A team that I believe has all the right pieces and they just beefed up this off-season by adding their own 'big three' consisting of two time Pro Bowl WR Vincent Jackson, all-pro guard Carl Nicks, and the very talented CB Eric Wright. These three moves could turn Tampa Bay into a playoff contending team again. QB Josh Freeman is a fantastic quarterback in my eyes and with the addition of V-Jack at wide receiver he becomes even better. Running back LeGarrette Blount will have to be successful at pounding the rock once again in order for the Bucs to stay alive within the tough NFC South. POWER: 7.5
Panthers: Last years' Rookie of the Year QB Cam Newton revitalized this poor Carolina Panthers team and this season they could even be a wild card contender. That's right, I believe that every single team in this division has a shot at the playoffs. It should be a great battle in the south this season. With the Newton to Smith combination and the two-headed running game of Williams and Stewart how can you hate on this offense? They have more than enough firepower to score on a tough defense so what's the problem? Well the loss of linebacker Jon Beason last season this team was wounded early on. Losing the leader of your defense in the very first game of the season always causes problems for a team and that is just what happened. With the return of Beason this year and with the addition of rookie LB Luke Kuechly from BC their defense will be primed for a major improvement. If the defense can help out Cam Newton's offense this season then these Panthers could be going places! POWER: 6.8
2012 NFL Preview: NFC East July 1, 2012
Giants: The defending Super Bowl champions will have a very tough task of reaching the big dance for a second straight year with the NFL's toughest schedule. They will play 7 teams that had nine or more wins from last season. Remember that these Giants only had 9 victories in 2011 as they squeaked into the playoffs in the final week. I expect Eli Manning to have another great season with Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks on his side but I just don't think they are that great of a team, especially in that division. The Philadelphia Eagles just found their swagger in the final four weeks last season and if they're healthy coming into this 2012 season then they will be giving the Giants headaches all year. If last year's Giants could only gather nine wins then I highly doubt they can reach that number with the schedule they have this season. The NFC East is arguably the leagues' most competitive division and with the addition of Robert Griffin III to the Redskins who knows what will happen. POWER: 7.5
Cowboys: Here's a team that is always put up on a pedestal every season by professional analysts. It seems like every year they are picked to make the playoffs and that Tony Romo will lead them to the promise land. Then as the season rolls on they don't come close to their expectations and they fall flat on their face. Well their 3 year playoff drought may end this season but I expect it to be in wild card fashion. They have a very talented offense with superstars like Miles Austin, Dez Bryant, and Jason Witten but they can only go as far as Tony Romo can take them. Even young RB DeMarco Murray showed off his explosiveness late last season before his injury. If he can perform on the level of play that he showed us then Dallas could become an elite team. But now back to Tony Romo, this very well may be the make or break season for the pretty boy quarterback. He's been a complete failure for 5 seasons now and if it turns into 6 then he may be canned. The Dallas Cowboys haven't made it past the divisional playoff round since 1996 so the ice is very very thin down in "Big D". POWER: 7.5
Eagles: Last season I picked the Philadelphia Eagles to win the NFC Championship and play in Super Bowl XLVI but they couldn't even make it out of third place in the NFC East. The talent was there but they just didn't gel together as a team at first. That and a case of the injury bug spelled disaster in Philly. As each loss piled up for this "dream team" the anger and frustration began to form. But in the final four weeks of the season they put together four straight wins and they showed us how great they can be once they're all on the same page. After a fabulous draft in April I may be picking Philly to win the NFC East once again. This time I feel more confident in that pick but it is vital that Michael Vick stays healthy or else they'll be sitting home in January...again. POWER: 8.5
Redskins: After an atrocious season last year it was clear that the only way the Washington Redskins were going to survive in this division was if they got a top notch quarterback. They did just that when they traded up to the number two pick in the draft to select Robert Griffin III from Baylor. I believe this guy will be truly special just like Cam Newton was a year ago. Don't expect the Redskins to make the playoffs this year but Washington may have something to cheer about in future seasons. Robert Griffin III could end up being a top 5 quarterback in this league and I believe he is even better than Cam Newton, who shattered several rookie records in the 2011 season. It will be fun to tune in and watch this potential superstar in 2012 but that will be the only reason to tune into a Redskins game. POWER: 3
Cowboys: Here's a team that is always put up on a pedestal every season by professional analysts. It seems like every year they are picked to make the playoffs and that Tony Romo will lead them to the promise land. Then as the season rolls on they don't come close to their expectations and they fall flat on their face. Well their 3 year playoff drought may end this season but I expect it to be in wild card fashion. They have a very talented offense with superstars like Miles Austin, Dez Bryant, and Jason Witten but they can only go as far as Tony Romo can take them. Even young RB DeMarco Murray showed off his explosiveness late last season before his injury. If he can perform on the level of play that he showed us then Dallas could become an elite team. But now back to Tony Romo, this very well may be the make or break season for the pretty boy quarterback. He's been a complete failure for 5 seasons now and if it turns into 6 then he may be canned. The Dallas Cowboys haven't made it past the divisional playoff round since 1996 so the ice is very very thin down in "Big D". POWER: 7.5
Eagles: Last season I picked the Philadelphia Eagles to win the NFC Championship and play in Super Bowl XLVI but they couldn't even make it out of third place in the NFC East. The talent was there but they just didn't gel together as a team at first. That and a case of the injury bug spelled disaster in Philly. As each loss piled up for this "dream team" the anger and frustration began to form. But in the final four weeks of the season they put together four straight wins and they showed us how great they can be once they're all on the same page. After a fabulous draft in April I may be picking Philly to win the NFC East once again. This time I feel more confident in that pick but it is vital that Michael Vick stays healthy or else they'll be sitting home in January...again. POWER: 8.5
Redskins: After an atrocious season last year it was clear that the only way the Washington Redskins were going to survive in this division was if they got a top notch quarterback. They did just that when they traded up to the number two pick in the draft to select Robert Griffin III from Baylor. I believe this guy will be truly special just like Cam Newton was a year ago. Don't expect the Redskins to make the playoffs this year but Washington may have something to cheer about in future seasons. Robert Griffin III could end up being a top 5 quarterback in this league and I believe he is even better than Cam Newton, who shattered several rookie records in the 2011 season. It will be fun to tune in and watch this potential superstar in 2012 but that will be the only reason to tune into a Redskins game. POWER: 3
Time to Put Out the Fire -June 7, 2012
Here we are, game six of the Miami-Boston series. Who would have thought that the Celts would be in this position in their own house with a chance to send Lebron James and the Heat packing for the summer. It truly does not get any better than this folks. The Garden...excuse me "The Jungle" will be rocking to the max tonight as the Celts try to win the Eastern Conference for the 3rd time in 5 years and head to their 22nd NBA Finals. It will be no easy task in doing so however. Lebron James and Dwyane Wade are gonna show up ready to defend their season but can the two of them handle the pressure that is on them? There is an unthinkable amount of pressure on Lebron tonight and I think he will crumble like a Drake's Coffee Cake like he usually does. I can not even imagine the Celtics losing this game in their own building. When you have a chance to put the Miami Heat away in your own building then you must perform and execute your gameplan because the last thing you want is to head back to Miami for a game seven in their house. You want to end this thing now! Look for Rajon Rondo to lead the Celtics to victory tonight since he had a below average game two days ago. He usually does not let the fans down in two consecutive games so I'm looking for big time performance from number 9 tonight. The key for the Celtics in this series has been the dominant play from Kevin Garnett so they must continue to feed him the rock on offense because the Miami interior is very weak as of right now. If KG continues this level of play then it will be all good for Celtics Nation in game number six. So here we go Celts lets finish off this Miami bunch and send them back to South Beach. LETS GO C's! BEAT THE HEAT!!!!
Taking Care of Business at Home -June 4, 2012
An instant NBA classic took place last night at TD Garden as the Celts took down Miami for a second straight game to tie up the Eastern Conference Finals. Just two games ago almost everyone had the aging Celtics ready to hit the golf course but the only drive that these C's are interesting in is the drive for banner number 18. The 2012 Celtics have done exactly what the 2011 were not able to do, comeback from a 2-0 deficit against the Miami Heat. Game four happened to be very similar to game two in several different ways. The Celts were up big in the first half and then let Miami back in it late in the game. Miami made their move and came oh so close to stealing this game but a rebellious Boston Celtics team wasn't having any of that this time. Boston held on strong and took this thing into overtime. Now may I just say that there is NOTHING better than overtime against the Miami Heat in TD Garden...especially when Lebron James fouls out. It was the loudest I have ever heard TD Garden in person. Once Lebron picked up that sixth and final foul the foundation of the Garden shook like a San Fran earthquake. However the C's were without their top scorer as well, Paul Pierce. But Doc Rivers and the Celtics didn't care, they played great defense as they shutdown Dwyane Wade and the Heat on their way to a huge 93-91 victory. Now that the series is all tied at 2 games a piece it will be very interesting to see what takes place Tuesday night in Miami for game five. It's big for the Celts to win this game because they definitely don't want to go back to Miami for a game seven. Keep calm and Rondo on! Let's go Celts!!!
Celtics-Heat, Game 2: Road to 18 -May 30, 2012
The first half of Monday night's game one went very well for the C's, or at least the 2nd quarter did. The green team torched Miami's defense in that quarter and put up a fat 35 points to knot the game up at 46 at halftime. But everything that the Celtics did in that quarter they failed at in the remainder of the game. Miami pounced on Boston in the 3rd quarter and pretty much did enough damage to put the game away. The Heat went on to win 93-79 as the C's lost their offensive swagger once again in these playoffs. Game two will take place tonight and the Celtics need to find out how they were able to be so successful in that 2nd quarter of game one. If they can play like that for the vast majority of the game tonight then they will most likely be victorious. Tonight's game is very crucial for both teams but it is almost a must win situation for Boston. If they lose this game then they will be down 0-2 just like last year against Miami and we all know how that ended. The Celts can't let this one slip, they must win. After all the "promised aggressiveness" from the Celtics these past two days I am very excited to see how they come out tonight. Hopefully they will start the game with guns blazing and jump out to an early lead. Here are some keys for doing just that:
1) The offense must go through KG and Bass (Miami's interior D is banged up without Bosh so take advantage)
2) Pierce and Rondo must take it to the hoop MUCH more often (get them in foul trouble and get to the line!)
3) Shutdown one of their "Big 2" (don't try to stop both Lebron and Wade, it's impossible..so just try to take one away)
This game should be very interesting after the Heat had their way in game one. The Celtics will be a very emotional bunch tonight for sure, whether or not it will be positive emotion remains a question. A win tonight will send the series back to Boston tied at one game a piece. That sounds pretty good to me so c'mon boys make it happen. Protect that paint! LETS GO CELTS!!!
1) The offense must go through KG and Bass (Miami's interior D is banged up without Bosh so take advantage)
2) Pierce and Rondo must take it to the hoop MUCH more often (get them in foul trouble and get to the line!)
3) Shutdown one of their "Big 2" (don't try to stop both Lebron and Wade, it's impossible..so just try to take one away)
This game should be very interesting after the Heat had their way in game one. The Celtics will be a very emotional bunch tonight for sure, whether or not it will be positive emotion remains a question. A win tonight will send the series back to Boston tied at one game a piece. That sounds pretty good to me so c'mon boys make it happen. Protect that paint! LETS GO CELTS!!!
Celtics deliver knock out punch to Philly, now time to "Beat the Heat" -May 27, 2012
"Beat the Heat...Beat the Heat". Those were the words of an electric TD Garden crowd last night as the clock dwindled down in game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals. Paul Pierce was hot off the start as racked up 7 early points. However from there on he was smothered by Philly defenders so Pierce was pretty much taken out of the game. Then with 4:16 left in the 4th quarter Pierce was literally taken out of the game as he fouled out. At this point the Celts were only up 71-68 so a little bit of panic sunk into Celtic nation. Who was gonna step up for Boston?! Well it turned out to be a named Rondo, you may have heard of him before. Rajon Rondo completely took over this game on his way to yet another triple double. He nearly averages a triple double a game! Truly amazing. Rondo scored 11 of his 18 points in the 4th quarter (something LeBron can't do). 6 of those 18 points came off of two clutch, out of nowhere, three-pointers. Those two shots were the dagger into the heart of the Sixers. The Celts took this game 85-75 (remember what I previously said about 85 points) and now they will move onto the Eastern Conference Finals for the third time in the "big 3" era. This time against the overrated Miami Heat. Get ready to yell at your TV for this series because if history repeats itself then the Heat will be getting dozens of calls in their favor. But LeBron can flop like a fish all he wants, our guys are gonna take it at him and slam it down his throat just like we did this regular season. If Rondo can operate consistently like he did in game 7 then the C's have a really great shot at the NBA Finals. More on this series to come. Let's go Celts!!!
Game 7...We Meet Again -May 25, 2012
The Garden will be rocking off of it's foundation on Saturday night as the ol' Celtics try to move onto the semi-finals. It's do or die now so expect KG to be twice as intense, twice as good, and twice as sweaty (if that's possible). Wednesday's game 6 in Philadelphia was a very poor effort by the guys in green and I definitely don't expect to see them come out and play like that again. Rondo will be the key factor in this game as he usually is. Last game he looked like Charles Barkley could have beat him in a 1 on 1 match. I don't know what was in the water but I hope to see the real number 9 back on Saturday night. There is no way that the Celts should not win this game, they're by far the better team in this series and they know it. If the C's can score at least 85 points then I say they win the game. That's pretty much been the number to shoot at thus far. Will Paul Pierce and the Celts be taking their talents to South Beach? Or will they be hitting the golf course? Preview coming tomorrow before the game. LET'S GO CELTS!!!
Celts can't shut the door, heading to Philly tied 1-1 in series -May 15, 2012
After scratching and clawing their way back to win game 1, the Celts were as flat as a rec center basketball in game 2. They just had no energy for the first 3 quarters and unfortunately the Sixers made a few lucky shots down the stretch which made the difference in this one. Now you could look at this loss in a couple of different ways. First off you could say that this is a "good loss". You're probably thinking right now "What the hell is a 'good loss'? This is the playoffs here!". Well what I mean here is that maybe the C's were overconfident about this series and that this loss will finally light a fire underneath them to wake them up a bit. A fire was certainly lit beneath them in the 4th quarter last night as they were down 57-49 heading into the final chapter of the game. That 4th quarter is exactly the way these Celtics should be playing every night they take the hardwood. They outscored Philadelphia 32-25 in the final quarter but due to their very poor 2nd and 3rd quarters they came up just short in this ugly game 2 of the Eastern Conference semis. The Truth, Paul Pierce, has basically been a non-factor offensively thus far in the series. Last night he put up only 7 points and if they Celtics want to win this series and move on to the Conference Finals then they will need a much larger contribution from "P Double". Even though Boston just suffered their first playoff loss at home in 2012 they're is definitely no reason to panic. I have no doubt in my mind that the Celtics will win this series, the only thing I am concerned about is the amount of games they do it in. If this thing goes 7 (it very well might) then I don't think the C's will have enough gas in the tank to take on Miami (assuming the Heat win their series against Memphis). Rest is very key in this run for banner number 18, the Celts are banged up but look for them to come out hot tomorrow night in Philly. Lets go Celts!!!
Celts have some home cookin' -May 7, 2012
When the series headed back to Beantown on Friday night you could tell that the C's were gonna take advantage of their home court and win both games. And wouldn't you know they did just that. Friday night's overtime thriller was a great test for the Celts. They shot very poorly but they overcame that and stole the game in OT. Sunday night was quite different however. The Celts exploded on the Hawks like ink from a pen. Right from the opening tip it was all Celts, all night. Pierce put up 24 points in 18 minutes before coming out of the game due to a knee injury. The Truth will most likely be good to go Tuesday night in ATL as the C's try to put away the Hawks for good. After last night's 101-79 blowout I have no doubt that the Celts will win the series. The Celts defense has NEVER been this good in the playoffs. Say what you want but the defense is allowing 81 points a game in this series while forcing turnovers left and right. How does that old saying go again? Oh yeah.."DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS".
The TRUTH shall set you free -May 3, 2012
What were the Boston Celtics going to do without their all-star PG Rajon Rondo in a playoff game? How could they win on the road already down 1-0 in the series? Well a man by the name of Pierce had the answer to all the questions Tuesday night in Atlanta. Paul Pierce stepped up big time in game 2, racking up 36 points and reeling in 14 rebounds. This epic performance was certainly one of Paul's best playoff performances and it was just what the team needed to get going in these playoffs. In 2008 when the Celts earned their 17th banner it was Pierce who had driven the team there. For this team to be 2012 NBA Champions he will once again have to be The Truth. He has had an amazing season since the all-star break and he looks like he can keep it going for a deep playoff run. With Josh Smith rumored to be out tomorrow night in Boston the Celtics and their fans are foaming at the mouth to get a hold of this series. I feel more than confident that they will win both games in Beantown this weekend and head back to Hotlanta with a 3-1 series lead. The Hawks are a very talented and young team but they do not have any heart or will to win. The C's on the other hand fuel off of pure heart and emotion. Rondo will be back tomorrow night from suspension as the Celts will be in full attack mode in front of their home crowd. The Garden will be rockin'! Let's go Celts!!!
With band back together for playoffs, Celts "on a mission from God" -April 29, 2012
After a devastating Bruins game 7 loss earlier this week, all Boston fans turn the spotlight to the Celtics. There are plenty of reasons to be very excited for this upcoming playoff run because the team is gelling together at the perfect time. Since the all-star break the boys in green have gone on an absolute tear to this point. Another reason to be excited is because yesterday Chicago Bulls' all-star PG Derrick Rose tore his ACL and his season is officially over. Celtics fans are foaming at the mouths now because if things go as planned they should cruise into the Eastern Conference Finals. Now don't get me wrong we still gotta win against Atlanta but with the way things have been going for the C's I don't have much doubt so far. The road begins tonight in Atlanta where the guys gotta take care of business. I am extremely pumped up for these NBA playoffs so let it begin! Let's bring banner 18 to Boston!
It's go time, Bruins' backs against the wall -April 22, 2012
The defending champion Boston Bruins will looking into the ugly face of elimination this afternoon as they take on the Capitals behind enemy lines for a do-or-die game 6. There are no Herb Brooks or Al Pacino type speeches that can fire up these Bruins. They must be fired up because they know that one simple mistake could send them packing very early. These Bruins have tasted the champagne out of Lord Stanley's sacred cup and having tasted it makes them want it more than ever. Once you have something in your possession you don't want anyone taking it from you. They shouldn't be satisfied with one championship, they should strive even harder this time because they know what it takes to win and they most certainly have the tools to do it. This team is arguably better, faster, and stronger than last seasons championship team. But that theory could be as dead as a plant without water by sunset tonight. The black n' gold better show up to fight for their hockey lives. They must put it all on the line, crash the net, finish every check, and put so much pressure on Holtby that he cracks like a twig. If they can successfully do all these things then they very well might live to fight another day in a game 7 back on the home ice of TD Garden. This game is all on the Bruins, they must show no mercy as they pepper the Washington net with shots. Last season the B's played their very best hockey when they were against the wall in an elimination game...maybe this year's squad can keep the tradition alive. Let's go Bruins!!!
That's more like it! -April 16, 2012
After two games in Boston, that featured basically no offense and no typical "Bruins Hockey", the B's and Caps series headed down to D.C. for game 3 Monday night. The Washington crowd was in it early on as the Caps jumped out to a 1-0 lead with a snipe from Alexander Semin. Boston struck back early in the 2nd period with a Peverley wrist shot off of Holtby's glove to tie the game. However literally seconds after that Alexander Ovechkin soared down the ice and blasted one past Timmy Thomas to give the Caps the lead again. The Bruins knew they would have to get down and dirty in order to take this game and they did just that. Two gritty goals by Paille and Rolston would keep the B's in the game going deep into the 3rd period. With the game in a deadlock at 3 tempers we're higher than the temperatures in Boston today. Milan Lucic was grabbed from behind after a whistle and he retaliated by pummeling Karl Alzner into the ice. Alzner then gestured toward Lucic and called him a crybaby. Now I have no clue how he can call "Looch" a crybaby after he took that whoopin' but hey it's his own problem. I'm more than sure that Alzner will have a target on his back in game 4 so may God have mercy on his soul (go get him Looch!). After these shenanigans Big Z, Zdeno Chara, blasted an atomic slap-shot past Holtby to send the black n' gold onward to victory by a score of 4-3. This was a huge win by the B's as they snagged back home-ice advantage in the series. With a win this Thursday night in game 4 the series will most likely be over with the boys coming back to Beantown for game 5. I'm so glad to see the physical play back for the Bruins, they play much better hockey when it becomes "scrappy". Now we just have to see the Bergeron-line come to life and the B's will be cruising for sure. Keep growing those playoff beards Boston!!! Let's go Bruins!
The defense of the B's has had their way with Alexander Ovechkin so far in this series
NHL PLAYOFF FEVER 2012 -April 8, 2012
After a phenomenal regular season of hockey and after last season's pulse-pounding playoff run all us Bostonians are roaring for this year's playoffs. Well the time has finally come, the B's will drop the puck Thursday night at the Garden in their quest to win back-to-back Stanley Cups. I will be covering the Bruins first round series against the Washington Capitals later this week but for now I will unveil my 1st round predictions for the 2012 NHL Playoffs:
EASTERN CONFERENCE
OTT(8)
NYR(1) -Rangers in 5
WSH(7)
BOS(2) -Bruins in 6
NJD(6)
FLA(3) -Panthers in 5
PHI(5) -Flyers in 7
PIT(4)
WESTERN CONFERENCE
LAK(8)
VAN(1) -Canucks in 4
SJS(7)
STL(2) -Blues in 7
CHI(6) --Blackhawks in 6
PHX(3)
DET(5) -Red Wings in 7
NSH(4)
EASTERN CONFERENCE
OTT(8)
NYR(1) -Rangers in 5
WSH(7)
BOS(2) -Bruins in 6
NJD(6)
FLA(3) -Panthers in 5
PHI(5) -Flyers in 7
PIT(4)
WESTERN CONFERENCE
LAK(8)
VAN(1) -Canucks in 4
SJS(7)
STL(2) -Blues in 7
CHI(6) --Blackhawks in 6
PHX(3)
DET(5) -Red Wings in 7
NSH(4)
Double Fudge Sunday -April 2, 2012
Two huge games for Boston sports took place on the 1st of April and do not be fooled by the results. First all eyes were on TD Garden for the prime-time fight between the Celtics and Heat. The Celtics have had a roller coaster season but since the all-star break they have the NBA's 2nd best record. The guys in green came into this matchup with a 4 game win streak. Everyone out there was picking the Heat to blow the Celts out of the water but Rajon Rondo thought otherwise. Every time the C's have had a premier Sunday game in the spotlight Rondo has shined brighter than the sun. He most definitely kept this trend going yesterday. The amazing Rondo and his sidekick Avery Bradley put on a show against the overrated bunch from South Beach as the C's kicked the Heat to the curb in a good ol' fashioned whoopin'. The defining point of the game was when young Bradley stuffed a Dwayne Wade layup and sent the overpaid all-star to the hardwood. This game was a blowout from start to finish en route to a 91-72 cookout. The Celts were even up by 30 points at one point! Every Celtics fan out there was ecstatic after this game. I truly believe, especially after yesterday, that this team can reach the NBA finals. If Rondo plays the way he has on these Sunday showdowns they can be unbeatable in the Eastern conference playoffs. Now notice how I said Eastern conference. There is no team in the NBA that can beat the Oklahoma City Thunder. They're a powerhouse that will crush everyone on their way to the Finals. If I was a betting man I would honestly bet the house on the Thunder winning it all (if they stay healthy).
Now onto hockey and the night game that featured the Bruins heading into MSG to face the #1 seed New York Rangers. Even though this game didn't really have any effect on the standings there was still a playoff atmosphere in the air. The game was as physical as it could get and it got very chippy at times. The Bruins knew that they had to leave New York with a win in order to get that mental block out of their heads. After going down 1-0 early in the 1st, Boston clawed their way back and put one on the board with a Seidenberg snipe. Later on in the game Patrice Bergeron slipped a soft goal past superstar goalie Henrik Lundqvist to put the B's up for good. Hingham's own Brian Boyle played the role of the instigator last night, trying to get under Chara and Thornton's skin late in the game. However his Ranger teammates couldn't rally late to tie it up and the Bruins won the battle 2-1 as they clinched the #2 seed for the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The B's are primed for a very deep playoff run and they have a legit shot to repeat as Cup champions. As playoff madness (NBA and NHL) approaches Boston fans have something to get pumped up about. Remember: Do not sleep on the Celtics, there could be some magic in store for April and May.
Now onto hockey and the night game that featured the Bruins heading into MSG to face the #1 seed New York Rangers. Even though this game didn't really have any effect on the standings there was still a playoff atmosphere in the air. The game was as physical as it could get and it got very chippy at times. The Bruins knew that they had to leave New York with a win in order to get that mental block out of their heads. After going down 1-0 early in the 1st, Boston clawed their way back and put one on the board with a Seidenberg snipe. Later on in the game Patrice Bergeron slipped a soft goal past superstar goalie Henrik Lundqvist to put the B's up for good. Hingham's own Brian Boyle played the role of the instigator last night, trying to get under Chara and Thornton's skin late in the game. However his Ranger teammates couldn't rally late to tie it up and the Bruins won the battle 2-1 as they clinched the #2 seed for the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The B's are primed for a very deep playoff run and they have a legit shot to repeat as Cup champions. As playoff madness (NBA and NHL) approaches Boston fans have something to get pumped up about. Remember: Do not sleep on the Celtics, there could be some magic in store for April and May.
Pats make some genius moves as free-agency continues -March 22, 2012
Once the clock struck 4:00 P.M EST on March 13 all football fans turned their attention to NFL free-agency. Some teams went all in on 1 guy, overpaying them. The Pats however followed a much more efficient and smarter path, and there's no surprise there with mastermind Bill Belichick calling the shots. New England invested in several key players to patch up some leaks on this playoff-tested boat. Each signing addressed a specific need that can help put this team over the top and become Super Bowl champs. Here are some of the recent signings for 2012 and my grades on the signing:
PLAYER GRADE
-Jonathan Fanene (DE) B+
-Brandon Lloyd (WR) A-
-Anthony Gonzalez (WR) C+
-Donte Stallworth (WR) C+
-Steven Gregory (S) B-
-Daniel Fells (TE) B-
-Will Allen (CB) C-
-Robert Gallery (OL) A-
My favorite pickups are obviously the Lloyd and Gallery signings. I love the Lloyd pickup because it brings back the deep threat that the Pats have not had for a couple season. Brandon Lloyd leads the NFL over the past 2 seasons in targets and receptions on passes over 20 yards. Deep threat for the 2012 Patriots....check! The Gallery signing is also a genius move with Matt Light and Brian Waters discussing retirement plans. The 2nd overall draft pick from 2004 has been a very solid lineman and he can be a great piece to this Pats team. If the wall that protects Tom Brady cracks a bit (Light and Waters leaving) then the Pats quickly patch it up. Great move. Now onto the signing of Jonathan Fanene. This is a very smart move because this guy has the ability to get to the quarterback (6.5 sacks in 2011 in a part-time role with Bengals) and he comes at a cheap price. With Mark Anderson gone (10 sacks in 2011) I believe Fanene can fill in and provide even more to this moderate Patriots pass rush. I think the team has to resign veteran Andre Carter, he was amazing in 2011 before being sidelined by a blown out knee in week 15. Another sneaky move was the signing of Daniel Fells. This young tight end is a great pass blocker but can also go out and snag a few catches as well. He can play a similar role to the one Alge Crumpler played in 2010. The Patriots had one of their best rushing seasons of the decade that year and Crumpler contributed greatly to that. If Fells can help pave the way for Ridley, Woodhead, or Vereen in a similar fashion then all signs will be bright for the ground attack. Remember, Fells was on Denver last season who was the NFL's best rushing team. The Patriots have made some great moves in their quest for a fourth Super Bowl so far but much still needs to be tuned up. So overall I would give the free-agent signings so far a B.
PLAYER GRADE
-Jonathan Fanene (DE) B+
-Brandon Lloyd (WR) A-
-Anthony Gonzalez (WR) C+
-Donte Stallworth (WR) C+
-Steven Gregory (S) B-
-Daniel Fells (TE) B-
-Will Allen (CB) C-
-Robert Gallery (OL) A-
My favorite pickups are obviously the Lloyd and Gallery signings. I love the Lloyd pickup because it brings back the deep threat that the Pats have not had for a couple season. Brandon Lloyd leads the NFL over the past 2 seasons in targets and receptions on passes over 20 yards. Deep threat for the 2012 Patriots....check! The Gallery signing is also a genius move with Matt Light and Brian Waters discussing retirement plans. The 2nd overall draft pick from 2004 has been a very solid lineman and he can be a great piece to this Pats team. If the wall that protects Tom Brady cracks a bit (Light and Waters leaving) then the Pats quickly patch it up. Great move. Now onto the signing of Jonathan Fanene. This is a very smart move because this guy has the ability to get to the quarterback (6.5 sacks in 2011 in a part-time role with Bengals) and he comes at a cheap price. With Mark Anderson gone (10 sacks in 2011) I believe Fanene can fill in and provide even more to this moderate Patriots pass rush. I think the team has to resign veteran Andre Carter, he was amazing in 2011 before being sidelined by a blown out knee in week 15. Another sneaky move was the signing of Daniel Fells. This young tight end is a great pass blocker but can also go out and snag a few catches as well. He can play a similar role to the one Alge Crumpler played in 2010. The Patriots had one of their best rushing seasons of the decade that year and Crumpler contributed greatly to that. If Fells can help pave the way for Ridley, Woodhead, or Vereen in a similar fashion then all signs will be bright for the ground attack. Remember, Fells was on Denver last season who was the NFL's best rushing team. The Patriots have made some great moves in their quest for a fourth Super Bowl so far but much still needs to be tuned up. So overall I would give the free-agent signings so far a B.
Golden Opportunity -March 16, 2012
After splitting two games in Los Angeles the Celts headed a bit north to battle the Warriors. The game was close all the way through but the C's just couldn't pull away. Rajon Rondo was tossing Magic Johnson-esque passes all over. One of them a perfect behind the back bullet to Ray Allen who nailed a key 3 pointer off the catch. It was KG who came through in the clutch however. With under 10 seconds to go in a tied ballgame Rondo drove hard to the basket which pulled Garnett's defender off of him. Rondo noticed this and dished it out to the big ticket who then calmly knocked down his signature mid-range jumper. That shot sealed the game and the Celts left San Francisco with a 2 game win streak. Tonight they will clash with the Sacramento Kings as they close up their tour of California. Tomorrow they will face the Nuggets out in the "mile high city" of Denver. Let's hope the luck of St. Patrick's day will be with them for these games. With a couple wins the Celts can pass the Hawks for the 6 seed in the eastern standings.
LA Noire -March 13, 2012
The Celtics came into Los Angeles over the past weekend for the same reason Tom Hagen did in The Godfather, just to take care of some business. The first game didn't go as planned. In a classic battle with the Lakers it was Kobe Bryant who came up clutch as the Celts couldn't hold on to their lead in the 4th quarter. After dropping that game the C's simply went back to their hotel for the night, got up the next day, and went back to work in the same Staples Center. This time they were facing the rebuilt Los Angeles Clippers who have taken the league by storm this season. For a second straight night the Celts were in a basketball war but this time there was no way they were leaving that building with a loss. Getting swept in LA would overshadow the entire west coast trip so it was almost a must win situation. Paul Pierce stepped up big time late in the 4th. He was driving hard to the basket and he knocked down a couple clutch 3 point bombs to seal the deal for Boston. They were victorious over the Clippers 94-85. Another late night is in store for Wednesday night as the C's head to northern California to take on the young and restless Golden State Warriors. This road trip is vital to the Celtics season and when they finally head back to beantown from it we will have a great idea of how far they will actually go. Getting that #6 seed for the playoffs is very important.
High School Hockey 2012
Super 8 Hockey-Game 2: Hingham vs Saint Johns -March 6, 2012
After losing game one to #5 BC High by a score of 4-2 on Sunday the Harbormen put that game in the past and moved on. Hingham High came to play in a must win situation against Saint Johns on a chilly Tuesday night up at Merrimack College. The Hingham crowd was fairly electric (for a Tuesday night game) and they overpowered Saint Johns poorly sized fan section. The game was neck and neck in the 1st period with neither team netting a goal. But in the 2nd, sophomore forward Sam D'Antuono slipped one past the Saint John's goaltender to put the Harbormen up 1-0. Little did anyone know that this goal would be the first of an amazing night for D'Antuono who racked up an impressive hat trick. After a second D'Antuono goal to put Hingham up 2-1 in the 3rd, Saint Johns battled back to knot the game up at 2-2 which would send the game into overtime. In overtime it was the man of the night, Sam D'Antuono, who lit the red lamp and won the game for Hingham. The Harbormen are now 1-1 in the 2012 Super 8 after this 3-2 victory. D'Antuono may be seen as the hero of this game but a lot of credit should be given to defensemen Nolan Driscoll and Noah Ellis who shutdown the Saint Johns offensive game for most of the night. Those two factors and the Harbormen only committing two minor penalties were the keys that fueled this big win for Hingham. The boys in red will head back up to Merrimack College on Sunday to face #1 Malden Catholic in a huge game. Lets go Hingham!
Celts heating up and so are the trade talks -March 3, 2012
Since the all-star break the Celtics have gone 3-0 and maybe KG was right when he said that this team just needed time to practice together. With the compressed season of 66 games there has been barely anytime to practice, especially for an aging Celts team that needs time to rest as well. In this past week the trade rumor winds started swirling around Boston. It started with the Celtics being interested in Deron Williams (who they beat down last night) and then interest was directed towards Steph Curry from Golden State. Of course the main C's player being thrown into the talks was all-star point guard Rajon Rondo. I started to believe that the C's would indeed trade Rondo but Danny Ainge came out yesterday and said they were not shopping Rondo. Whether or not Ainge is bluffing is unknown but it should be very interesting to see what they do. As for the Celtics as a team they have a slight spark after racking up 3 consecutive wins. Last night they trounced the Nets 107-94, tying a season high in points for the Celts. Paul Pierce's 27 point game propelled Boston to win. Garnett dropped 20 points and Rajon Rondo chipped in 14 points and 13 assists in the domination at the Garden. The Celts have crawled back over .500 as they look to Sunday's big primetime matchup against the red hot New York Knicks.
Pats off-season preview, football season never ends -February 26, 2012
It has been 21 long days since Wes Welker dropped a first down pass that would've clinched a 4th Super Bowl title for New England. In each of those 21 days every true Pats fan has paused during the day and thought "what if". Yesterday the NFL combine kicked off which means it is officially the 2012 NFL season. Only the hardcore fans care about the free agent and draft period and with free agency beginning in less than a month we are all getting excited again. Priority number one is to re-sign Welker. He is one of the main pieces to this team so he must be re-signed immediately. After that I look for them to go out and get a deep threat wide receiver in either the draft or free agent pool. You may think that they should go after defensive guys since the defense was so poor this year but from week 16 to the Super Bowl the defense improved greatly. They are very young and they will be getting key injured players back such as Ras-I Dowling (cornerback) and Andre Carter (defensive end). I have much more to come throughout the NFL off-season which promises to be a busy one.
Celts hot n' cold heading into match vs Chicago -February 11, 2012
After winning 5 straight games the Celts went into a primetime matchup against the Lakers. It was one hell of a game too. Fans were chanting "Beat LA!", players were pushing and shoving, Kobe was hitting fade-away jumpers, and Paul Pierce was responding with clutch shots of his own. In a way it reminded me of the 2008 NBA Finals. Now these two teams are nowhere close to how good those teams were but the matchup itself was legendary. After grinding it out for 48 minutes the score was tied so each of these aging teams took the floor on their last legs. Overtime was just the same as the rest of the game with each team responding to the others scores. But in the end Paul Pierce was not able to make the clutch shot and Ray Allen's put-back attempt was sent into the first row by greasy Pau Gasol. After that heartbreaker of a game the C's headed north of the border to Toronto. It was certainly a trap game and as Tommy Heinsohn said "it looks like the alarm clocks haven't gone off yet!". Doc Rivers was furious at his team's effort as Boston fell to Toronto 86-74 for their 2nd straight loss. The team has a day off today and they'll need it as the red hot Bulls come into town tomorrow. If the Celts can put up a fight against Chicago then I think some hope can be restored in the hearts of Celtics fans because the road to the finals most likely goes through them.
A Giant Disappointment, But Pats Promise to Be Back -February 6, 2012
The Pats were just so close to sealing up a 4th Super Bowl title but they just couldn't shut the door on the Giants...again. Whether it was the safety, the 12 men on the field penalty, the interception, or the huge drop by Wes the mistakes just kept piling up. The Patriots just simply beat themselves and they just didn't deserve that championship on that day. If Welker comes down with that ball then the Pats are set up inside the 20 yard line with the clock ticking down from 4 minutes. They most likely would have gotten it down to 2 minutes or less since the Giants only had one timeout and would have scored by way of a touchdown or field goal. A field goal would have put them up 20-15 and a touchdown would have won it with the Pats up 24-15. But win or lose I am still very proud of this team and hope to see them all back next year. With a weak AFC the Pats have a great chance to be back in the Super Bowl assuming they stay healthy and resign Welker. They may have lost the Super Bowl for the 2nd time in 4 years but either way they are still my team and you gotta love them. The off-season now begins and we'll have to move onto the B's and Celts. Great season Pats, MHK would be proud.
What could have been...
The Most Sacred of All Sundays -February 5, 2012
The day has finally come. We have waited 4 years for this to happen but it's here at last. The Patriots and the Giants for all the marbles in the NFL. By Sunrise tomorrow someone will have hoisted up the Lombardi Trophy in a storm of colorful confetti under the Lucas Oil Stadium roof. Will Tom Brady tie Joe Montana and Terry Bradshaw for 4 Super Bowl titles or will little Eli Manning earn his 2nd championship? In several hours we will have all the answers but as of right now we can only wait. It has been such an epic season for our Pats. From the death of Myra Kraft to the comeback against Dallas to the wide left field goal to send New England to Indy. Every moment has been so special to us fans and who knows the next time our boys will reach the Super Bowl. You just never know so that makes tonight even more special. The Patriots are just one win away from glory, just one team stands in the way of the Lombardi and they are the toughest opponent yet. They can be explosive on both sides of the ball so here are the 3 keys to a New England Patriots' 4th Super Bowl title:
1)Protect Brady and the points will sky rocket (if Tom gets time all day it will be a field day for him)
2)Win the turnover battle, we got very lucky losing the turnover battle and winning the game against Baltimore
3)We can't settle for field goals like against Baltimore, when we reach the redzone we have to score TD's to win this game
I am sure Gronk's ankle will be fine and he'll get his receptions but Tom will have to get that ball out quick. The Giants' pass rush will be coming in there like a flash flood and it will be up to the o-line to keep Tom-Terrific dry. The Pats have been quiet all week while the Giants have been running their mouths. Everything from calling Tom Brady an average QB, to guaranteeing a parade, to putting up Super Bowl champs gear on their website. They have given Bill Belichick plenty of material to use in his pre-game speech to pump up his guys. In Super Bowl 39 he used to Philadelphia Eagles premature parade plans to fuel his team. It worked out well then so maybe it can work in our favor one more time. This Super Bowl is such an evenly matched game and it will be a game til the clock strikes triple zero. Enjoy this day Patriots fans because we waited four hard years for this. Spend it well with your friends and family as you scream at the TV, jump into the air after a touchdown, Gronk spike your plate of nachos, or pop the champagne in the middle of the living room. Let's pray that Tom will be terrific, Wilfork will be hungry, and Bill will be a hooded genius. Revenge is a dish best served cold so lets win that Lombardi Trophy and shove it right down New York's throat! LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
GIANTS- 24
PATS- 30
1)Protect Brady and the points will sky rocket (if Tom gets time all day it will be a field day for him)
2)Win the turnover battle, we got very lucky losing the turnover battle and winning the game against Baltimore
3)We can't settle for field goals like against Baltimore, when we reach the redzone we have to score TD's to win this game
I am sure Gronk's ankle will be fine and he'll get his receptions but Tom will have to get that ball out quick. The Giants' pass rush will be coming in there like a flash flood and it will be up to the o-line to keep Tom-Terrific dry. The Pats have been quiet all week while the Giants have been running their mouths. Everything from calling Tom Brady an average QB, to guaranteeing a parade, to putting up Super Bowl champs gear on their website. They have given Bill Belichick plenty of material to use in his pre-game speech to pump up his guys. In Super Bowl 39 he used to Philadelphia Eagles premature parade plans to fuel his team. It worked out well then so maybe it can work in our favor one more time. This Super Bowl is such an evenly matched game and it will be a game til the clock strikes triple zero. Enjoy this day Patriots fans because we waited four hard years for this. Spend it well with your friends and family as you scream at the TV, jump into the air after a touchdown, Gronk spike your plate of nachos, or pop the champagne in the middle of the living room. Let's pray that Tom will be terrific, Wilfork will be hungry, and Bill will be a hooded genius. Revenge is a dish best served cold so lets win that Lombardi Trophy and shove it right down New York's throat! LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
GIANTS- 24
PATS- 30
The Road to Indy: Pats 2011 season review -February 2, 2012
It all started on a humid Monday night in September down in Miami. Tom Brady was impressive out of the gate slinging for 517 yards in a 38-24 beating of the Miami Dolphins. The following week the boys were welcomed home at Gillette and they pleased the fans with a 35-21 victory over the San Diego Chargers. After two straight dominant performances by the offense they ran into a speed bump up in Buffalo. Brady was not the usual Tom-Terrific while throwing 4 interceptions and falling to the Bills 34-31. Three weeks later after wins against Oakland and the Jets the Pats faced the Dallas Cowboys at Gillette. With the team trailing 16-13 late in the 4th quarter Tom took over and led an epic drive to glory. The drive was capped-off by a TD to tight end Aaron Hernandez. Little did Pats fans know, this would be a sign of things to come. After an emotional win the Patriots went down to Pittsburgh and came up short against the hated Steelers. Then in came the New York Giants to Gillette Stadium. It was the first time since Super Bowl 42 that the teams have met (not including pre-season). Once again Tom Brady led a great drive down the throat of the Giants' defense late in the 4th, but unfortunately New England's defense couldn't keep Eli and the G-men out of the endzone. The Pats' would go on to lose for the 2nd straight week. At this time several analysts and fans were questioning this team and their weak defense. From here on though the Pats wouldn't lose another game. New England closed out the season with 8 consecutive victories over the Jets, Chiefs, Eagles, Colts, Redskins, Broncos, Dolphins, and Bills. The Pats earned a number one seed in the AFC with a 13-3 record giving them a bye in the first round of the playoffs. On a frigid January night in Foxborough the Pats were hosting Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. The game was never even close with the Pats routing Denver 45-10. Tom Brady's 6 touchdown passes (NFL playoff record) blew the Broncos right out of the building. Next came the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC title game. With a chance to go to Super Bowl 46 on the line the Pats showed the world that they can be physical and tough. The game was just like a 15 round boxing match with each side getting their punches in. However the Ravens couldn't land the final blow and the Patriots lasted to the end. As confetti filled the Gillette Stadium air the fans exploded into a frenzy because their boys were headed to Indy to represent the AFC in Super Bowl XLVI. Hours later the Giants were victorious in their game so a rematch of Super Bowl 42 was set in stone. The hype continued to build and build up into Super Bowl week. This was the road to Indy.
Tom-Terrific put everything he had into the TD that sent New England to Indy.
Game. Set. Rematch! Pats vs Giants in the big one! -January 24, 2012
Four years ago every true Patriot fan died a little inside when the Patriots' perfect 19-0 season was shredded in the final minutes of Super Bowl 42 by the New York Giants. Fast-forward to now and the same two teams are set to square off in Super Bowl 46. This isn't just a game for the Patriots, it is a chance at redemption. This may be the most important game for any Patriot fan out there. A Super Bowl victory would shut up the haters for years and it could possibly make Tom Brady the greatest QB ever to play the game (4 Super Bowl victories). It is also such a special game because to be able to win it all for Myra Kraft would be one of the most amazing sports stories in recent memory. On February 5th, 2012 the Patriots will take the turf with the MHK patch over the hearts and the Super Bowl 46 patch on the other side right next to it. Much more to come for this game! Super Bowl time!!!
AFC Championship-Part II: Conclusion -January 21, 2012
We are now less than 24 hours away from the kickoff of the AFC Championship. Two of the NFL's most emotional teams clashing head to head in a "one game season" as Bill Belichick would say. Just think about how many future hall of famers will be on the field Sunday. It truly will be an NFL classic at frozen Gillette Stadium. I feel confident in this Patriots team to come out on top and reach the Super Bowl again, for these 3 reasons:
1)Baltimore won't be able to keep up with Gronkowski, Hernandez, AND Welker (they may stop them for a short time but with the no huddle offense the Ravens will run out of gas)
2)This team is built around the belief that the season is for Myra Kraft, they will most certainly be "playing for the patch"
3)The Ravens are all talk and intimidation, the Pats are a team built off of heart
If the defense is actually turning the corner and they can play like they did last week then Flacco is in for a long afternoon. I believe this defense will step up again and make just the right amount of plays to overcome the Ravens. Sure they may give up a few large plays here and there but they will get to the QB and shutdown Rice in the running game (I bet he doesn't get get any more than 70 yards rushing). When you hear people talking about the match in 2009 tell them they're crazy to be comparing this year to that year. The Pats didn't have Gronk or Hernandez and Welker was out with a knee injury. No big deal, only our three top weapons on offense...who needs that. Doesn't anyone remember that we played the Ravens last season? And WON. Things are different now for sure. Lets go Patriot Nation! Get loud! Lets make Gillette rock tomorrow!! Lets get back in the Super Bowl!! LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
RAVENS-20
PATRIOTS-33
1)Baltimore won't be able to keep up with Gronkowski, Hernandez, AND Welker (they may stop them for a short time but with the no huddle offense the Ravens will run out of gas)
2)This team is built around the belief that the season is for Myra Kraft, they will most certainly be "playing for the patch"
3)The Ravens are all talk and intimidation, the Pats are a team built off of heart
If the defense is actually turning the corner and they can play like they did last week then Flacco is in for a long afternoon. I believe this defense will step up again and make just the right amount of plays to overcome the Ravens. Sure they may give up a few large plays here and there but they will get to the QB and shutdown Rice in the running game (I bet he doesn't get get any more than 70 yards rushing). When you hear people talking about the match in 2009 tell them they're crazy to be comparing this year to that year. The Pats didn't have Gronk or Hernandez and Welker was out with a knee injury. No big deal, only our three top weapons on offense...who needs that. Doesn't anyone remember that we played the Ravens last season? And WON. Things are different now for sure. Lets go Patriot Nation! Get loud! Lets make Gillette rock tomorrow!! Lets get back in the Super Bowl!! LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
RAVENS-20
PATRIOTS-33
AFC Championship-Part I: Pats offense vs Ravens defense -January 17, 2012
This is the premier matchup of the weekend. Will the Pats offense crush the old, washed up Ravens defense? Or can the Ravens make a final stand with their aging defense? Obviously we will have to what until Sunday to find this out but here are a few things to look at. There is not a soul on the Ravens defense that can cover Rob Gronkowski or Aaron Hernandez. One if not both of them will have monster games which is a serious problem for Baltimore in this AFC title game. Baltimore coach John Harbaugh will have to come up with one of the best defensive game plans of his 4 year career as the head coach in order to beat New England on Sunday. If it were not already difficult enough the Ravens could be without veteran safety Ed Reed. Reed suffered a severe ankle sprain in the Ravens' 20-13 victory over the Houston Texans on Sunday. The legendary safety will most likely play in this huge game due to his passion for the game but he certainly will not be 100%. Once again this spells trouble for Baltimore's chances. As I have said before, Tom Brady is on a mission this year and he is determined to get to the Super Bowl for the 5th time. With that being said I do not see the Ravens' defense stopping the Pats' powerful offense come this Sunday at chilly Gillette. If the offensive line can dominate like they have all year long then it will be no contest. Edge: Patriots.
The two-headed monster may be the key to reaching the Super Bowl. There are 3 game-changing tight ends left in the playoffs...the Pats have 2 of them
Tebow out, Pats cruise into AFC Championship -January 16, 2012
When Tom Brady headed out onto the frigid turf of Gillette on Saturday night he looked like a determined man, some might say "he looked like a man on a mission". Well let me tell you that he certainly is on a mission and with the type of play we saw Saturday night he will succeed in that mission. After tossing 6 touchdowns (tying an NFL playoff record) Brady is heading to the AFC Championship game for the 6th time in his career. The Pats will be meeting up with the hard-nosed Baltimore Ravens in this AFC title game. The Ravens will be looking to make this game physical but the big question is whether or not the Ravens' offense can keep up with the Pats. The Pats' offense is hot off of a 45 point game and they were literally unstoppable. This offense can and will rack up 30 points on any defense, including the #4 ranked passing defense of Baltimore, so the pressure falls on Joe Flacco and Ray Rice to keep up. I don't believe that they can and I'm sure I'm not alone on that theory. Baltimore's elite and experienced defense will not stop New England's offense because there is no plan and no player out there to stop the duel threat of Gronk and Hernandez. I mean if you double Gronk then Welker will be one on one with a corner which is certainly trouble for the defender. Plus who will cover Hernandez or Gronkowski for the Ravens? Baltimore safety Ed Reed is banged up and past his prime and the Ravens don't have the proper linebacker for covering them. This spells trouble for the guys in purple. But anything can happen as we saw this weekend so lets not get too confident here. One more note, in the past 10 AFC Championship games the home team has won 8 times. Who were the away teams that won the other two? The New England Patriots.
2012 NFL Divisional Weekend Picks
Saturday:
4:30 Saints @ 49ers: Saints 27-13- The Saints are my pick to represent the NFC in Super Bowl 46 so I have to stick with them even on the road in San Francisco. I just don't see how anyone can stop Drew Brees and that offense. The game should start out tight but New Orleans will break out in the 2nd half and dominate this game. San Fran's Alex Smith just doesn't make me feel confident in the 49ers to out duel Brees and move onward. The Saints will play next week with a chance to go to the Super Bowl for a 2nd time in 3 years...sounds like another team I know.
8:00 Broncos @ Patriots: Patriots 31-23- Tom Brady has lost his last 3 playoff appearances (two at home) but this year he will put that all behind him and take over this game. With unstoppable tight ends like Hernandez and Gronk on his side he will have a much greater chance in doing so. Denver's Tim Tebow has had one hell of a ride this year but it will all come to an end on Saturday night at Gillette Stadium. New England's defense is downright awful but all they need to do is prevent the huge play and come up with some key turnovers to stop the Tebow train. In Belichick we trust.
Sunday:
1:00 Texans @ Ravens: Texans 19-17- Here is my big upset of the week. Baltimore may have the experience and the home crowd but I just think Houston has more firepower on offense. Arian Foster is a genius at the running back position for the Texans. He seems to find the right hole to power through every time he touches the ball. Now don't get me wrong I think Ray Rice is great but it's Flacco and the Ravens' passing game that I'm worried about. At least Houston has WR Andre Johnson to take the ball deep. The NFL always has some crazy postseason games and this one will be in that category.
4:30 Giants @ Packers: Packers 27-23- In this game you could very easily pick the Giants to win after their impressive win over Atlanta last week but I just think that Rodgers and his offense are too difficult to stop. This game could be very similar to the Giants-Packers NFC Championship from 2007 but this time Green Bay will be victorious. The NFC Championship will be a rematch of the Packers-Saints opener from last September. That was a spectacular football game and this one will be the very same.
4:30 Saints @ 49ers: Saints 27-13- The Saints are my pick to represent the NFC in Super Bowl 46 so I have to stick with them even on the road in San Francisco. I just don't see how anyone can stop Drew Brees and that offense. The game should start out tight but New Orleans will break out in the 2nd half and dominate this game. San Fran's Alex Smith just doesn't make me feel confident in the 49ers to out duel Brees and move onward. The Saints will play next week with a chance to go to the Super Bowl for a 2nd time in 3 years...sounds like another team I know.
8:00 Broncos @ Patriots: Patriots 31-23- Tom Brady has lost his last 3 playoff appearances (two at home) but this year he will put that all behind him and take over this game. With unstoppable tight ends like Hernandez and Gronk on his side he will have a much greater chance in doing so. Denver's Tim Tebow has had one hell of a ride this year but it will all come to an end on Saturday night at Gillette Stadium. New England's defense is downright awful but all they need to do is prevent the huge play and come up with some key turnovers to stop the Tebow train. In Belichick we trust.
Sunday:
1:00 Texans @ Ravens: Texans 19-17- Here is my big upset of the week. Baltimore may have the experience and the home crowd but I just think Houston has more firepower on offense. Arian Foster is a genius at the running back position for the Texans. He seems to find the right hole to power through every time he touches the ball. Now don't get me wrong I think Ray Rice is great but it's Flacco and the Ravens' passing game that I'm worried about. At least Houston has WR Andre Johnson to take the ball deep. The NFL always has some crazy postseason games and this one will be in that category.
4:30 Giants @ Packers: Packers 27-23- In this game you could very easily pick the Giants to win after their impressive win over Atlanta last week but I just think that Rodgers and his offense are too difficult to stop. This game could be very similar to the Giants-Packers NFC Championship from 2007 but this time Green Bay will be victorious. The NFC Championship will be a rematch of the Packers-Saints opener from last September. That was a spectacular football game and this one will be the very same.
Living on a prayer: Chapter 2-The Playoffs -January 12, 2012
What a wacky week it has been for football. Tebow has done it yet again, this time tossing the Steelers overboard out of the playoffs. I just can't believe that this guy is still winning. When Brady went down to Denver in week 15 and stomped all over them I thought they were history. But just like a spider that you thought you squished they are back once again. Tebow and the Broncos must have showed up at Logan Airport today and the gods must have come with him because it's a stormy Thursday afternoon here in the Boston area. Before I get started here I just want to let everyone to not take the Broncos lightly! We may have demolished them weeks ago but look what happened last year when we ended up facing a team we blew out in the regular season...moving on. This week has gone by so slow with the anticipation of the game building as each day passes but we are edging closer and closer to Saturday as I type. Temps will be in the teens to set a perfect New England night for playoff football. Brady looks to join Joe Montana for the most playoff wins of all time (15) with a victory. However as we all know Brady has lost his last 3 playoff appearances (Super Bowl 42 vs NYG, 2009 vs BAL, 2010 vs NYJ). By Sunday morning Tom Brady will be in that group with Montana because of these 3 things:
1) The Pats put up about 30 points a game and Denver has only scored 30 points twice this year with Tebow (last time was week 13)
2) Belichick will have a perfect gameplan for Tebow because he played him so recently
3) The Pats went into Mile High in week 15 and dominated, so won't it be easier at home?
I don't know what it is but I have a funny feeling that the defense will step up big time on Saturday night (call me crazy). There can't be much more up Tim Tebow's sleeve because we have seen him run it, we have seen McGahee run it, we have seen the option and other trick plays, and know we have seen #15 air it out. The one thing about the Patriots' defense that may be positive is that they never let up the home run play. Pittsburgh was letting these up constantly against Denver on Sunday. New England gives up a boatload of yards but at least they keep the other team from sailing it deep. Denver has had quite some magical run but their time is done now. If the Pats don't commit a single turnover then there is close to 100% chance that they win. The Patriots are the best in the league at the turnover battle by far with a +17 mark on the season. However the past 3 playoff losses have all been caused by the same thing and that is the lack of protection for Brady. The offensive line needs to buckle down and play the way they played all year. If Brady is given the proper amount of time then Denver has no shot. Saturday night Tebow and the Broncos will march into Gillette Stadium but Tom Brady will be ready with an air assault of his own with a trip to the AFC Championship on the line! It's all or nothing at this point! So get rowdy and get loud! LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
BRONCOS- 23
PATS- 31
1) The Pats put up about 30 points a game and Denver has only scored 30 points twice this year with Tebow (last time was week 13)
2) Belichick will have a perfect gameplan for Tebow because he played him so recently
3) The Pats went into Mile High in week 15 and dominated, so won't it be easier at home?
I don't know what it is but I have a funny feeling that the defense will step up big time on Saturday night (call me crazy). There can't be much more up Tim Tebow's sleeve because we have seen him run it, we have seen McGahee run it, we have seen the option and other trick plays, and know we have seen #15 air it out. The one thing about the Patriots' defense that may be positive is that they never let up the home run play. Pittsburgh was letting these up constantly against Denver on Sunday. New England gives up a boatload of yards but at least they keep the other team from sailing it deep. Denver has had quite some magical run but their time is done now. If the Pats don't commit a single turnover then there is close to 100% chance that they win. The Patriots are the best in the league at the turnover battle by far with a +17 mark on the season. However the past 3 playoff losses have all been caused by the same thing and that is the lack of protection for Brady. The offensive line needs to buckle down and play the way they played all year. If Brady is given the proper amount of time then Denver has no shot. Saturday night Tebow and the Broncos will march into Gillette Stadium but Tom Brady will be ready with an air assault of his own with a trip to the AFC Championship on the line! It's all or nothing at this point! So get rowdy and get loud! LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
BRONCOS- 23
PATS- 31
2012 NFL Wild Card Weekend Picks -January 6, 2012
Saturday:
4:30 Bengals @ Texans: Bengals 24-20- The Houston defense may be rock solid but this year it's all about offense and quite frankly the Texans offense may be in trouble. Quarterback T.J. Yates is getting the start with a banged up shoulder and WR Andre Johnson hasn't proven that he is 100% yet. Houston RB Arian Foster may have a great game but I think Cincy's combination of Dalton to Green will tear up the Texans defense all day. It will be a battle of the rookie QB's down in Texas but Dalton will find a way to win.
8:00 Lions @ Saints: Saints 38-27- Drew Brees is on a mission to get back to the Super Bowl this year after having one of the best seasons by a QB in NFL history. On the other side of the ball is young Mathew Stafford who also had a very stellar year at the QB position. But in the end Brees will overcome the shaky Detroit secondary and Stafford will not be able to reach his level. It'll be a good ol' fashioned shootout down in the Big Easy on Saturday night and count on New Orleans coming out on top.
Sunday:
1:00 Falcons @ Giants: Giants 31-27- The Giants have probably been the most inconsistent team in the NFL this year but I believe they will be victorious at home against the Falcons. New York's pass rush is one of the best in the league and when Atlanta's Matt Ryan is under pressure he tends to not succeed. The game will come down to which QB is more affective and I think it will be Eli Manning because of his playoff experience. This may be Eli's best season yet and he's not gonna let it come to an end this early. The x-factor for this game is Giant's WR Victor Cruz. Cruz has been on a tear for the past couple of weeks and is coming into the playoffs very hot. Expect a big game from him and expect the G-men to win.
4:30 Steelers @ Broncos: Steelers 17-9- Ben Roethlisberger may be hurt and the Steelers may be without RB Rashard Mendenhall but there is no way Tebow can beat the Pittsburgh defense. He couldn't put up more than 3 points on Kansas City last week so what makes you think he can do it against the Steelers? The Steeler's offense has been pretty lame as well lately. In the last three games with Roethlisberger under center their offense has put up 14, 3, and 13 points. That is Tebow-esque and border line terrible. I certainly do not expect an offensive show but the Steelers will prevail by way of their defense making big plays.
4:30 Bengals @ Texans: Bengals 24-20- The Houston defense may be rock solid but this year it's all about offense and quite frankly the Texans offense may be in trouble. Quarterback T.J. Yates is getting the start with a banged up shoulder and WR Andre Johnson hasn't proven that he is 100% yet. Houston RB Arian Foster may have a great game but I think Cincy's combination of Dalton to Green will tear up the Texans defense all day. It will be a battle of the rookie QB's down in Texas but Dalton will find a way to win.
8:00 Lions @ Saints: Saints 38-27- Drew Brees is on a mission to get back to the Super Bowl this year after having one of the best seasons by a QB in NFL history. On the other side of the ball is young Mathew Stafford who also had a very stellar year at the QB position. But in the end Brees will overcome the shaky Detroit secondary and Stafford will not be able to reach his level. It'll be a good ol' fashioned shootout down in the Big Easy on Saturday night and count on New Orleans coming out on top.
Sunday:
1:00 Falcons @ Giants: Giants 31-27- The Giants have probably been the most inconsistent team in the NFL this year but I believe they will be victorious at home against the Falcons. New York's pass rush is one of the best in the league and when Atlanta's Matt Ryan is under pressure he tends to not succeed. The game will come down to which QB is more affective and I think it will be Eli Manning because of his playoff experience. This may be Eli's best season yet and he's not gonna let it come to an end this early. The x-factor for this game is Giant's WR Victor Cruz. Cruz has been on a tear for the past couple of weeks and is coming into the playoffs very hot. Expect a big game from him and expect the G-men to win.
4:30 Steelers @ Broncos: Steelers 17-9- Ben Roethlisberger may be hurt and the Steelers may be without RB Rashard Mendenhall but there is no way Tebow can beat the Pittsburgh defense. He couldn't put up more than 3 points on Kansas City last week so what makes you think he can do it against the Steelers? The Steeler's offense has been pretty lame as well lately. In the last three games with Roethlisberger under center their offense has put up 14, 3, and 13 points. That is Tebow-esque and border line terrible. I certainly do not expect an offensive show but the Steelers will prevail by way of their defense making big plays.
A look back at my 2011 NFL Predictions -January 2, 2012
Wicked Pissah Weekly predictions for 2011 NFL regular season made on August 5, 2011
RED=INCORRECT, GREEN=CORRECT
AFC
EAST-Patriots
WEST-Chargers
NORTH-Ravens
SOUTH-Colts
WILD CARDS- Steelers and Jets
NFC
EAST-Eagles
WEST-49ers
NORTH-Packers
SOUTH-Falcons
WILD CARDS- Buccaneers and Giants
Overall: 5/12 for exact, 7/12 for teams making playoffs
RED=INCORRECT, GREEN=CORRECT
AFC
EAST-Patriots
WEST-Chargers
NORTH-Ravens
SOUTH-Colts
WILD CARDS- Steelers and Jets
NFC
EAST-Eagles
WEST-49ers
NORTH-Packers
SOUTH-Falcons
WILD CARDS- Buccaneers and Giants
Overall: 5/12 for exact, 7/12 for teams making playoffs
Here we go 2012! -January 1, 2012
NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS AROUND THE NFL
- 49ers- Pray Alex Smith doesn't crack in the playoffs
Bears- Find a real QB that doesn't whine *cough cough Jay Cutler
Bengals- Keep Andy Dalton and A.J. Green in sync through the off-season (they're a great pair)
Bills- Keep searching for a way to beat the Pats/Jets
Broncos- Keep faith in Tebow
Browns- Try to get out of the AFC North
Buccaneers-Grow up and find a way to beat Atlanta and New Orleans
Cardinals- Search for Kurt Warner's phone number
Chargers- Fire Norv Turner, get a real coach
Chiefs- Hold on to Romeo Crennel and get Cassel/Charles healthy
Colts- Uhhhmmm draft Andrew Luck and have Peyton mold him
Cowboys- Have Tony Romo spend the off-season at "how to perform in the 4th quarter" school
Dolphins- Find a time machine and bring back Dan Marino
Eagles- Bring the team to that place where Denzel brought the Titans in Remember the Titans
Falcons- Scheme up a plan to take down Drew Brees
Giants- Try not to be the most inconsistent team in the league
Jaguars- The list is too long...
Jets- Make sure the only thing Rex Ryan guarantees is a trip to the buffet line, not the Super Bowl
Lions- Take Ndamukong Suh to anger management with Adam Sandler and Jack Nicholson
Packers- What happened to that defense from last year? Oh well they're still dominating
Panthers- Give Cam Newton some weapons
Patriots- Win a playoff game
Raiders- Get to the playoffs...for Al
Rams- Find a top-notch WR or RB
Ravens-Beat the Steelers when it counts
Redskins- Find a QB
Saints- Ride the golden arm of Drew Brees to the Super Bowl
Seahawks- Keep on feeding the ball to Marshawn Lynch, stock up on Skittles too
Steelers- Keep Big Ben upright, he is their only shot a title
Texans- Massage Arian Foster's feet nightly, he's their only hope offensively for the playoffs
Titans- Pray for a Bengals loss
Vikings- "Gone Fishin"
Pierce-less Celts slow out of the gate -December 28, 2011
After losing to the Knicks in a game that the Celts had in their grasp and after coming up short against the hated Heat the C's will look to get their first win tonight in New Orleans. This game should be a breeze for the new-look Celts but without captain Paul Pierce who knows what will happen. Some fans may look at this 0-2 start as trouble for the Celtics but look at it this way. Losing by 8 to Miami (best team in the league) on their home court without your best scorer. It is actually a positive sign that if the C's can stay healthy with their core 4 they will have a great shot at taking down Miami. So far through these first 2 games I think the new additions have been awesome. Especially Brandon Bass and Keyon Dooling. Bass has been a monster on the boards and his KG-esque jump shot has been straight cash. Keyon Dooling kept the C's in it on Tuesday night with his bombs from behind the arc. Both of these guys have been great so far and could be a vital part of the Celtics season. After trade rumors throughout the past month, Rajon Rondo has put on a show in the first 2 games with his even more aggressive attack but unfortunately he needs some help from his teammates. With Pierce on the court this team could very well be 2-0 but that is not the case and they will have to play without the captain for now. Boston takes on the Hornets at 8 P.M. in New Orleans. Lets hope the Celts will go into their home opener Friday with a record of 1-2. Go C's!
Dooling (left) and Bass (right) join the cast of the 2012 Boston Celtics
B's roll, Pats come back, and Celts ready for Knicks, -December 24, 2011
Great Christmas in Boston
What a great weekend for Boston sports fanatics. First the Bruins dismantled the Florida Panthers on Friday 8-0 (Festivus), then the Pats came back to take down the Dolphins to clinch a first round playoff bye, and tomorrow the Celts will be back on the court for meaningful basketball. All that and the fact that it's Christmas weekend isn't too shabby either. The Pats did not look sharp at all today in the first half. It may even have been the worst I've seen Tom Brady play in his time in New England (that bad). But when the second half came around he delivered like a UPS driver during the holidays. Two rushing TD's by Tommy boy and a TD toss to Deion Branch capped off the comeback from 17-0 as the Pats rumbled to a 27-24 victory at bone-chill Gillette Stadium (it was quite chilly). The win came with a gift-wrapped first round bye in the playoffs which was an essential to this team. A Jets loss and possible playoff elimination was also a beautiful gift on this fine Christmas eve. When you awake tomorrow morning you will not just find your living room littered with gifts but you can also find the Celts-Knicks game on TNT at 12 noon. It'll be a battle between two contenders as New York and Boston go at it once again. Last year in the playoffs the C's eliminated the Knicks in dominating fashion with a 4 game sweep. The Knicks will look to get revenge in their own building on Christmas day in the spotlight. Madison Square Garden will be rockin' and she has been known to throw some great parties in the past. The Celtics season is here, the Pats get the bye, and the Bruins are cruising...thanks Santa! Happy Holidays everyone.
We have Brady...and you don't -December 18, 2011
The title says it all. If the 2011 Patriots go deep into the playoffs it certainly won't be because of a dominant defense, it won't be because of game controlling running game, it will be because of a man named Brady. You may have heard of him before. Tom Brady might not be having his best season, although he has a great chance to break Dan Marino's single season passing yard record, but he may have his best set of weapons that he has ever had...and that's just scary. Tom Terrific's inventory of weapons includes the double tight end threat of Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, league leading receiver Wes Welker, and a very solid running game with Green-Ellis/Woodhead/Ridley. I have no idea how a team can take away both Hernandez and Gronk. It is pretty much impossible to do for an opposing defense and that is why the Pats are where they are right now. With another AFC East championship under the belt of Brady he will be heading into the playoffs with the team on his back. If you are one of the few who think that the Patriots don't stand a chance in the playoffs because of their sloppy defense then here is a quick thing to think about. With the way the playoff picture is set up as of now the teams in the playoffs would be New England, Baltimore, Houston, Denver, Pittsburgh, and New York. All those teams have elite defenses except the Patriots BUT look at each team's starting quarterback. You have Tom Brady, Joe Flacco, T.J. Yates, Tim Tebow, Ben Roethlisberger, and Mark Sanchez. None of those other 5 QB's are even close to Brady's level. Roethlisberger has some experience and a couple of rings but he is still nowhere close to Tommy Boy. Plus, how effective can one of these elite defenses be against Brady's Patriot missiles anyway? Today Brady went head to head with one of those defenses and racked up 41 points. When the Pats played the Jets earlier this year they put up 30+ points twice on them and the Jets have one of the best pass defenses if not the best. So when you hear that defense is what gets you deep into the playoffs, think again. Tom Brady knows he's getting up there in age and he knows that the window of his prime is closing. He's got the weapons, he's got the skill, he's got the experience, he's Tom Brady. Let's bring the Lombardi Trophy back to where it belongs, New England.
Living on a prayer -December 15, 2011
Now before we get started here I would like to thank my lord and savior Bill Belichick. Buckle up folks this is gonna be one wild ride on Sunday afternoon. Something has to be in the water up in Denver because nothing and I mean NOTHING can explain the strange things happening in Denver. It would be easier to explain what's happening in the movie The Matrix than to explain the strange happenings coming from Mile High Denver. But this week the "A-Team" (the Pats) will be heading into Denver and for the sake of football let's hope they can beat those pesky Broncos. It will be Tom Brady v.s. Tim Tebow in a primetime clash of two AFC playoff contenders. People are hyping this game up to be a neck and neck game but in reality it should very well be a blowout in favor of New England. If in fact the true Patriots show up and beat Denver by a large margin then my confidence in this team winning or at least reaching the Super Bowl will be raised back up. Three reasons why the Pats should take down Tebow and the Broncs: #1 this will be the first elite offense Denver has gone against while under the reign of Tebow (I highly doubt Tebow can put up 30 points), #2 the Broncos can't play 4 quarters of mistake free football (they only show up in the 4th), #3 Patriot's will force Tebow to make mistakes (Belichick is the master of game-planning for a single player, he's done it countless times). We know that Denver cannot put up 30 points even on the 32nd ranked defense that is New England, so once again it will be up to "Tom Terrific" and Gronk to get a nice 30 spot on the board. The Broncos defense is very good, don't get me wrong, but Brady is Brady and as long as he's sittin' back in the pocket there is no stopping him. I've typed all this and have yet to really talk about Tebow. Well I'll just say I think he is truely a great player with a great passion and all of his "religious talk" doesn't bother me at all. The thing that bothers me is that every time I turn on ESPN, open up a Sports Illustrated, or simply just go to Yahoo I see this guys face! The media talks about him way too much! He's won some games but he is nowhere close to what Rodgers, Brees, and Brady are. The Packers are 13-0 on their way to 16-0 and all the media can talk about is Tim Tebow (whether he plays well or not). Let's hope our Pats can head into Mile High and drop those Broncos like a bag of dirt. Who knows it may even be a future playoff matchup...
PREDICTION
PATS-34
BRONCOS-24
PREDICTION
PATS-34
BRONCOS-24
All I want for Christmas is a defense -December 11, 2011
Once again the Pats let another team rack up the yards in tremendous fashion but once again the Pats won. Now I've said it many times and it is true every time, it doesn't matter how many yards you let up it's all about the points baby. For example say it's the playoffs and you let up 450+ yards to your opposition but you win 31-17 or something like that. Now who cares how many yards you allowed? All that matters is that you are getting ready for your next game instead of making a tee-time for the next day. So why should it be any different right now for the Patriots? They're winning games and last time I checked that's what it's all about. However if Brady hits a snag or struggles a bit during the playoffs (like he has the past two playoff trips) we are going to need a somewhat decent defense to slow the opposing offense down. Other teams are tearing through these guys like a runner through the ribbon at the finish line. I understand that they are missing two key guys in Spikes and Chung and hopefully they will be healthy very soon. It is clear that the biggest problem on defense is the secondary although McCourty showed some improvement today against Washington. Safety James Ihedigbo is just flat out horrible, the guy can't cover anyone and can't tackle anyone so he is as useful as a parking cone. I hate to say it but it could be possible that Edelman and Slater are two of our best defensive backs right now. Julian Edelman has been impressive on defense thus far with some decent coverage, top-notch tackling, and even putting a little pressure on the QB at times. If your one of those people who can't think of anything for your Christmas list then here's something to add: A Patriots defense.
Have a Merry Gronk-mas
Defense needs to step up in D.C. -December 7, 2011
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and it's also beginning to look a lot like another AFC East title. Tom Brady is firing on all cylinders with his sidekick Rob Gronkowski on the door step of history. He tied the record for most touchdowns by a tight end in a season (13). At first he broke it but they called a third receiving touchdown back because it was technically a rushing touchdown. It's a great thing that the offense is hitting it's stride because the defense cannot get too much worse. It has been anything but pretty for this defense this season especially right now when they are beginning to start wide receivers at defensive back. It's just a total mess on that side of the ball. But we can't dwell on the past forever here, lets move onto Washington. Look for Andre Carter to have a big day at defensive end, the Redskins cut him because they thought he didn't have anything left in the tank. Well he's gonna be on a mission to prove them wrong if he already hasn't done so this season (9 sacks, 47 tackles, 1 forced fumble). The defense tanked it at the end of the game last week and even though they were garbage time points it didn't appear to be a playoff defense. This week should be a solid test for the defense. Roy Helu has been great for the past few weeks at RB for Washington and QB Rex Grossman can sling it with success at times. I've said it before and I'll say it again, these Pats WILL NOT win a Super Bowl without a solid defensive performance in the playoffs. You can't win these 31-24 or 35-21 games in the playoffs. It's just a different style of football once the calender turns to January. If we don't see some progress for the rest of the regular season then it will be trouble in New England. As always the Patriots offense should push the team to victory. Washington's defense is good against the rush and also pretty solid against the pass. However it should be no problem for Brady. The 2011 Pats' playoff run could be similar to the Bruins' run at the cup last season. The Bruins rode the hot hand of Tim Thomas to the big dance and the Patriots could be riding Tom Brady's golden arm to Super Bowl XLVI. Just think, if the Pats had just a decent defense then this team could be in the same shoes as the Packers...
PREDICTION
PATS-35
REDSKINS-17
PREDICTION
PATS-35
REDSKINS-17
Pats set to blowout winless Colts -December 2, 2011
In past seasons this game may appear as one of the most anticipated matchups of the year. However this year's rivalry game doesn't quite pack the punch of the usual Pats-Colts tradition. The Colts stand at a pathetic 0-11 record with the league's worst scoring defense and 3rd worst scoring offense. Add those two stats together and you get a pretty miserable football team...the 2011 Indianapolis Colts. I honestly feel bad for Colts fans. Imagine owning season tickets to the Colts, your a diehard fan and you're ready for another Super Bowl chase with Peyton Manning. Fast forward all the way to today and you have no Manning, no defense, and no wins. It's simply a disaster. An 0-16 season is very possible for the lonely Colts but they may have some motivation for this one. The Colts will come into New England with a new defensive coordinator and a new starting QB, Dan Orlovsky (who had played for that 0-16 Lions team back in 2008). Orlovsky has a chance of being part of the only two 0-16 teams ever. That is not something he wants on his resume. I hate to get over confident for a game but this one should be a total laugher. I'm talking 35 points at the half kind of laugher, it should just be a smokeshow for Brady and his offensive troops. If any of you fantasy players have have either Gronk, Welker, Brady, or even Benjarvus then you will be in good shape for your match this week (which is positive news for your playoff positioning). So this game should be over at halftime as the Pats cruise over the Peytonless Colts like a tank over a Smart-car. LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
COLTS-10
PATS-41
PREDICTION
COLTS-10
PATS-41
Here's a picture of Dan Orlovsky back in 2008, looks like good news for Pats' fans
Pats had their turkey, next on the menu is eagle -November 27, 2011
After blowing the Jets and Chiefs out of the water the Pats will head to Philly to take on a desperate Eagles team. Their superstar, new era QB Michael Vick is in doubt of playing this game so it looks like Vince Young will get the nod for a second consecutive week. Young looked terrible last week against the Giants but still managed to come up with a game winning drive late in the game. The Eagles have a pretty weak offensive line and with the Patriots starting to discover their pass rush that is music to my ears. Philly's group of receivers will give New England trouble with their speed and agility so I am quite worried in that department. But if their is enough pressure applied on Young then he will make mistakes, you can count on that. Tom Brady may be in luck because Eagles' CB Nnamdi Asomugha was carted off at practice on Thursday with a knee injury and his presence for Sunday's game is also in doubt. The biggest key to the game for the Patriots is to put some points up early in this one, it'll put more pressure on the Eagles to respond and they won't be able to use their top weapon, LeSean McCoy, as much as they would like to. In recent games the Pats' offense has started up slower than a 15 year old car in the thick of winter. However they have been able to bounce back in the second half of games to come out on top. Imagine how great this team could be if the offense could play at a high level from start to finish. If there is any game for Brady to get rolling it is this one, it's the final week before the home stretch of the season, December, and that is when Tommy is at his best. Lets see if the "no-name defense" can make it 3 games in a row with a pass rush. You have to love how these guys have played since the Jets game. They might not have all the talent but they've certainly got the heart and sometimes that's the better quality. It reminds me of a great Mike Ditka quote, "good players don't make good teams, good teams make good teams". The boys will look to make it 3 straight wins against Philly but don't get too confident, the game will be much more difficult than it appears. LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
PATS-31
EAGLES-24
PREDICTION
PATS-31
EAGLES-24
NBA Lockout over(almost), Break out the hardwood! -November 26, 2011
Break out the green! Not just because it's Christmas time but because the C's are almost back! Back in the summer when the NFL lockout ended I was thinking, "oh I don't need basketball that bad, football is number one and I can live with that". Well let me tell you, I have missed Doc, KG, Rondo and the boys so much. I feel like I have been separated from my family (yes, I miss the Celts that much). But thanks to the great news that I received at about 4 a.m. this morning we will be seeing green very soon. The season is on track to start on Christmas day in New York against the Knicks. It should be really interesting to see what the front office does with bringing in new faces. The only center on the team right now is Jermaine O'Neil (Nenad Krstic does not count). O'Neil is getting a bit long in the tooth and he's got very bad knees, the Celts will need to bring in at least 2 new big men to give us more muscle and depth in the paint. This season WILL be the big 3's last chance at a title and it could be the Celtics' last chance for a long time so hopefully Ainge and Doc can put the right pieces together to form a championship squad. I'm dreaming of a green Christmas, It's all about 18.
Monday Night Football heads to Gillette -November 20, 2011
What an opportunity the Patriots have in front of them. After man-handling the Jets last week, New York lost again last Thursday night to the Denver Broncos. That now puts them at a record of 5-5 on the season. The Pats (6-3) have a date with the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday night at Gillette. It should be an easy win for New England but you don't want to be too confident these days. A victory would give the Patriots plenty of breathing room atop the AFC East and with the easiest schedule in the league remaining the Pats would be full speed ahead for a playoff spot. We cannot overlook this game with the Chiefs however. There is no main worry for this game in any department. Normally I would say I'm worried about the defense but c'mon. They are going up against an unexperienced backup QB in Tyler Palko and a scrappy RB in Batlle. Kansas City is no threat offensively to the Patriots this week. Obviously there is no worry for the Pats offense. Tom Brady is hot off of an impressive performance against the Jets and he looks like the Tom of old once again. It's hard to say who will shine for the Patriots in this one because there are just so many options due to a poor KC team. I'm hoping our "No name defense" can get to Palko and get some turnovers in this one. The more confidence this group can get, the better. So for this game you can expect Brady to be magical, Gronk to put on a show again, and the defense to swarm the ball and get some much needed turnovers. Happy Thanksgiving everybody, Keep Calm and Brady on!
LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
Chiefs-17
PATS-42
LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
Chiefs-17
PATS-42
Round 2 of Pats-Jets, prime-time fight -November 13, 2011
The lights are on and the stage is set for what should be an epic game. Two teams going at each others throats for 60 minutes of football with one goal in common...win. The winner of this game will be in the lead of the AFC East and will have the inside track to the playoffs. There is still half a season to be played but this game is a must win for New England. I expect Tom Brady to show his true colors tonight in the spotlight of primetime. He hasn't been himself the past few games and now is the time to return to glory. The Jets on the other hand are hot off of 3 straight victories even though their offense has been sluggish. If the Jets try to establish the run tonight they will be in trouble. They tried to do it last time against the Pats and they got absolutely nothing. The Patriots have the worst pass defense, I don't see why the Jets would run the ball. New England has lost it's last 2 games and have not lost 3 straight since 2002! Don't think that they plan on doing it anytime soon either. It's gonna be some fight tonight. Belichick must have prepared one hell of a gameplan for this week. It's just like Tom Brady said last week, this is a great matchup for the Pats because they see the Jets more than any other team. They know this team more than any other of the 32 NFL teams. Expect these 3 things from the Pats tonight: Brady to be dominant, Andre Carter to get to Sanchez, and Deion Branch to get going in the passing game (Welker will be smothered by Revis). With all that being said it should be a perfect game of football. If the Pats can put up at least 30 points then they will win this game. That's the magic number fans, 30 points. So let's pray that the defense can be decent and Tommy boy can be...well Tommy boy. GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
PATS-31
Jets-27
PREDICTION
PATS-31
Jets-27
2 straight losses sends shockwave through New England -November 9, 2011
The defense sucks, Brady is in a slump, and the Pats are making
uncharacteristic mistakes. Yup, it's a tough time to be a Patriots fan
right now. The Patriots are now 5-3 which puts them in a 3-way tie for
first with the Bills and Jets. Speaking of those damn Jets, we have a
date with them on Sunday night under the lights at the Meadowlands. For
all you depressed fans, cheer up because Rex Ryan is about to get his
ass kicked...again. This game will be a great measurement to see if this
team has what it takes to rise up and play when it matters most. The
Jets just flat out suck, they've got no offense! Our defense just has to
play slightly solid and it should be a win. I expect the real Mr. Brady
to show up this week and deliver a knockout punch to New York. The Jets
have the best defense in the division and maybe even the league but we
have Tom Brady... and quite frankly that's all you need. The struggles
on offense are due to the same old offensive playbook that NE has been
running for over a year now. Other teams are finally catching on! C'mon
Bill! It's time to mix it up a bit. Work the sidelines, take the ball
deep, run some screens. We cannot keep running the same old pass over
the middle to Gronk, Hernandez, or Welker! I think I remember someone
saying back in the spring while previewing the Pats positions, "Last years speedy slot receiver type of offense will not work next season and that was seen in January". Well I guess nobody listened...
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: Week 9 vs Giants -November 5, 2011
February 3, 2008...a tragic day for Patriot Nation indeed. We all know the story so let's not get into it right now but Sunday will be the first game since then that the Pats will have a shot at revenge on the Giants. It's a bit late for revenge since both teams are completely altered but we'll take anything we can get. As for the game itself, it should be another fantastic New England fall day at Gillette so look for a shootout between these two squads. Although Eli Manning is...well...a little whimpy boy scout, his offense can be very powerful and with the way our defense looked last week that leaves me very concerned. New York's top WR, Hakeem Nicks, is out for this game but it will still be a tough task for the NFL's worst defense. If you look at the things I just mentioned and add that with a rusty New England offense then you probably think it will be a breeze for the G-Men. Well not so fast there guys. The Patriots will win this game because of a few things. First off Tom Brady hasn't lost a home regular season game since 2006 (when the field was still grass!), second the Patriots have not lost to an NFC East team since 2002, and third the pass rush will disrupt Eli which will translate into turnovers (look for WPW favorite Andre Carter to have another big one). I cannot imagine how tough Belichick must have been on the boys this week during practice after last week's mess. It was almost as painful to watch the defense last week as it was for Tony Montana to watch that guy get chaisawed in the movie Scarface, just brutal stuff. Hopefully they can bounce back this week, I mean it seems like Belichick always has a plan to bounce back I have no idea how he does it but somehow it gets done and that's all that matters. I was very surprised to open up last week's issue of Sports Illustrated to see that the Pats were picked to win the Super Bowl over the Packers, especially after such a bad loss. Can you see our defense against Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay's offense? Wow, what a nightmare that would be. If there is any game for the defense to show what they can really do it's this one. They've got to shut up the rest of the league and send a message while doing so and they must do it now. Brady and the offense will rebound after a slow week last time out. Only worry on offense is the protection of Brady. The Giants get after the QB and they are the best in the league at it. They'll be coming and they'll be coming hard, all day long. Will the offensive line hold up? We'll just have to wait and see. LETS GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
Giants- 24
PATS- 35
PREDICTION
Giants- 24
PATS- 35
Lets hope the line actually blocks this time, Brady probably still has the bruises from 4 years ago...
Patriots' defense annihilated in 25-17 loss to Pittsburgh -October 30, 2011
You know when you put a sheet of paper into an electric office shredder and it comes out on the other side looking all stringy? Well that's what the Patriots' defense looked like on Sunday. Seriously folks it was scary how bad they were on defense. If you're looking for a scary Halloween costume for tomorrow night then dress up as a Patriots' defensive back, you'll scare the hell outta everyone. A parking cone could have done a better job covering Pittsburgh's receivers. It was just a horrible day to be a Patriots fan. The funny part is that if you think about it the Pats still could have won the game! They only lost by one score after playing their worst game since last year down in Cleveland. It may not have been pretty today but I would not panic one bit. Like I said a second ago this game was very similar to last year's embarrassing loss to the Browns. Terrible defense and a slow non-productive offense was the common symptom in both cases. After that game last year the Pats went on a huge winning streak finishing at 14-2. Now our boys are left with a 5-2 record on the season with a so-so New York Giants team coming to town next week. The ugly games are always the easiest games to put behind and let's hope New England can do so. You have to beleive that the bye week had a large role in the game as well. Too much time off slowed this team's momentum that they had been building. Pittsburgh deserved the win, they played harder and wanted it more than the Pats. It's as simple as that. Now we move onto the next opponent, who stole a 19-0 season from us in 2007...
PS- Patriots are now accepting volunteers for defensive backfield, feel free to go sign up
PS- Patriots are now accepting volunteers for defensive backfield, feel free to go sign up
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: @ Pittsburgh -October 27, 2011
The final week of October is upon us and as we enter the festive month of November the Pats stand tall (1st in the AFC with a record of 5-1). The last time we saw the boys on the field was 2 LONG weeks ago when Tommy boy led an epic drive to edge the Cowboys. Much has happened between then and now. The Pats had a week off from football last week and each of them spent it very differently. Brady went down to the Caribbean to catch some rays while Rob Gronkowski spent time with an adult film star....but let's look ahead to this Sunday's big game against the Steelers, shall we? Last year the Patriots went down to the Steel city and demolished the Steelers. Tom Brady picked them apart like a Thanksgiving turkey and Benjarvus Green-Ellis rumbled over them like a steam roller on a full tank of gas. This game should give us a good idea of where the Pats really stand. I mean we know that they are good but "how good" has yet to be determined. The Steelers of 2011 are far from the 2010 Super Bowl version. At least it appears that way so far. Their offensive line has been horrific, resulting in QB Ben Roethlisberger being turned into a human punching bag. When their line holds up though they can be a dangerous group. Speed demon WR Mike Wallace can fly down the field so Devin will have his hands full on gameday. McCourty has had a bit of trouble so far this year on coverage for the Pats but maybe the bye week gave him enough time to prepare for Wallace. The Patriots' defense has improved over each week so far so lets hope they keep up the habit. If Andre Carter can get to the QB like he did against Dallas than it will be a rough day for Roethlisberger. On the offensive side for New England I see no problem whatsoever. They shredded the "Steel Curtain" last year and the Pittsburgh defense has weakened considerably while the two headed monster of Gronk/Hernandez has gotten 5 times better. Oh yeah and if you didn't think the Pats' already had the edge then how about this bit of info, Bill Belichick is 9-2 when coming off a bye week in the regular season. So there you have it. Happy Halloween and GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
PATS-34
Steelers-27
PREDICTION
PATS-34
Steelers-27
Look for Gronk to have another MONSTER game like he did last year in Pittsburgh
Flashback Pats Week: 2001 Super Bowl XXXVI vs Rams -October 19, 2011
It was the ultimate underdog story, the young and reckless Patriots taking on the experienced and high powered Rams. Tom Brady was just a California kid in an unfamiliar situation while Kurt Warner was the MVP of the NFL and a Super Bowl champion. The spotlight was shining brightly down on New Orleans, Louisiana that night. The Superdome was packed full of rowdy fans who had no idea what they were about to witness. It all started when the Patriots declined to come out individually (that was the Super Bowl tradition back then). Instead they came out as a team, showing the unity that they had displayed all year. Every team that the Pats faced that year completely underestimated them, the 2001 Pats were as much of a secret as Area 51. They just went way under the radar in the NFL. But as for the big game, it would go down as an all-time classic. Early on the Rams noticed the resiliency of the Patriots. Their defense was shutting down the high powered offensive machine that was the Rams. After one quarter of play the St. Louis Rams were up 3-0 over New England. The 2nd quarter would be the turning point for the game and ultimately the New England franchise. In a flash the tables were turned in the game. Rams' QB Kurt Warner dropped back to pass and CB Ty Law picked off his pass quicker than a bolt of lightning. Law galloped across the gridiron with his fist in the air as he brought the interception back to the house to put New England up 7-3. That play sent a shockwave through the stadium. Nobody in the entire country thought that the Pats had a chance but they were now up on the heavily favored Rams. Then to make it even more amazing, young Tom Brady led a vital drive into St. Louis territory. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis made a fantastic play call. The play would send WR David Patten on an "out-go" route, putting him in the corner of the endzone. Everything went as planned on the play and a picture perfect pass to Patten in the corner put New England up 14-3 now. Everyone watching was stunned to say the least heading into halftime. How in the world was a team like the Patriots beating up on a team like the Rams? After all the Rams were the so called "greatest show on turf". As expected the Rams bounced back in the 2nd half. The Pats' offense was held to 3 points in the 3rd quarter and was unable to put it away. Kurt Warner's offense stormed back to put up 14 4th quarter points, including a 2 yard rushing TD by Warner. The game was all knotted up at 17. When New England regained possession on the kickoff very late in the 4th it was time for Tom Brady to show the world what he could do. Instead of running out the clock and going into overtime the Pats went all in. Brady commanded an epic drive consisting of short, conservative passes that set up New England for a field goal attempt with 8 seconds left. Adam Vinatieri lined up for the most important field goal of his life and Patriots' history. Its almost as if the whole play happened in slow motion. Vinatieri sent the 48 yarder straight through the uprights and the confetti instantly began to fall. It was a dream come true for New Englanders. For the first time since 1986 (when the Celts won) Boston fans got to experience the feeling of a professional championship. The New England Patriots were Super Bowl champions.
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: vs Dallas -October 15, 2011
The weather is getting colder, the air is becoming drier, and the leaves are turning orange. When these three things happen we all know that it's about the midway point of the NFL season and that's when the men are seperated from the boys. Yes we are about two or three weeks from the exact midway point but with the Pats having the week off next week that just makes this game even more important. You may be thinking that this game is not too vital to the Pats or that the boys got this one in the bag already. Don't be fooled fans because this game is being overlooked by many New England football fanatics. The Cowboys (2-2) coming into Gillette, where Brady hasn't lost a regular season game since 2006, with their choke artist QB Tony Romo facing much adversity. That information may lead you to believe that this game will be a cruise for the Pats but as I said earlier, do not be fooled. Dallas has one of the best defenses in the league (#1 against the run) and they are led by defensive coordinator (and mastermind) Rob Ryan. I guess you could say he's the better of the 2 Ryan brothers (well at least to us Pats fans). Sorry to bring it up but if you look all the way back to last season when NE faced the Browns in Cleveland you can see that Rob Ryan (defensive coordinator of Cleveland at the time) smothered Brady's offense like a Vermonter smothering pancakes with syrup. The Dallas defense is stacked with talent. They are led by their future hall of famer defensive end DeMarcus Ware (85 career sacks) and league leading tackler Sean Lee. Benjarvus and the rest of the running game will have a really tough time running on these guys. Left tackle Matt Light will be relied on greatly by Tom Brady. If Ware can disrupt the passing game then the Pats will fall to the Cowboys. Simple as that. I have a feeling that Dallas will put up a solid amount of points on our pathetic defense so there is even more pressure on the Brady to put up points. Dez Bryant is one of the leagues' most talented WR's and McCourty will have his hands full with him. Bryant along with fellow WR Miles Austin and TE Jason Witten will keep NE defenders busy all afternoon. Austin hasn't played since week 2 and he is Romo's favorite target. Expect a good ol' fashioned shootout from the razor on Sunday (I suggest you take the over on this one). Pack up the cars, ice up the coolers, and fire up the grills it's almost tailgatin' time!! GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
Cowboys-28
PATS-34
PREDICTION
Cowboys-28
PATS-34
Brady will look to make himself 2-0 vs Romo on Sunday
Benny Given Sunday -October 9, 2011
What a perfect day in New England today. First off there was the beautiful weather with not a cloud in sight. I'm usually a fall weather lover but today's 85 degree with no humidity was just flat out dandy. The fans were in store for a surprise this afternoon when they took their seats. The Bruins came charging onto the field before the Pats. Timmy Thomas and Zdeno Chara were individually announced and named the honorary captains of the game. What a sight it was at the 50 yard line when Nathan Horton sprayed the field with ice (which was melted and put into a water bottle) just as he did back in June prior to the game 7 matchup in Vancouver. The Garden ice brought the B's a victory back then and it did the same today in Foxboro. The Patriots defense came to play today while forcing 7 "three and outs" to the Jets. New England stopped the ground n' pound of the Jets with great success. Speaking of ground n' pound, the Pats had their own version today on offense. Benjarvus Green-Ellis charged for a career-high 136 yards and 2 TD's on Sunday afternoon. Brady finally received some much needed help on the offensive attack. Tom himself threw for 321 yards and a touchdown to WR Deion Branch. Jets' QB Mark Sanchez was just brutal once again for New York. The Pats' defense was in his face all day allowing only 255 total yards of offense (season best for NE). The Patriots never trailed in this one and held on for a 30-21 victory. With the win the Patriots move to 4-1 on the season and still remain tied with Buffalo for 1st in the East. The Jets on the other hand have lost 3 straight and are now 2-3, a plethora of work lies ahead for Rex Ryan's squad. Next week the Cowboys will be coming to Gillette as the Patriots take on the other Ryan brother, Rob (who is the defensive coordinator for DAL). The boys really looked great today (especially in the ol' red throwback uniforms).
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: vs New York(Jets) -October 9, 2011
Today a new chapter of the Patriots-Jets rivalry will be written. Both locker rooms remained quiet this week and for the Jets that's not their usual style. These 2011 Jets are in an identity crisis and if they don't fix it soon they will be in an inescapable hole. Usually we see Rex Ryan stirring up the NFL with his crude remarks, usually the Jets are a brick wall on defense and usually we see a lot of success from their "ground n' pound" offense. So far this year those key factors to the Jets' success in the past have been absent. Maybe they should try to be the loud-mouths that they once were, that just might be the thing that makes them tick. For the Patriots its the exact opposite. They know who they are and they execute almost everything to perfection. However the Jets are desperate for a win and a desperate team could either be at its most dangerous or at its most vulnerable. If New York loses this game they will be 2 games behind the Pats and that is nearly impossible to overcome (after all the Patriots are not the Red Sox). But unfortunately for the Jets I don't see anyway of them coming into Gillette and beating Brady and the Pats this week. As for the game itself, I think we'll see the balanced attack that we witnessed last week from the Pats' offense. The Jets will be in trouble if New England can run the ball like they did last week against Oakland. The quality of the Jets' offense all rides on whether center Nick Mangold plays and plays well. The leagues #1 center is banged up bad and he is the heart and soul of that offense. With Haynesworth back in the lineup, Mangold will have a really tough day. The Haynesworth/Wilfork combination vs Mangold will be something to watch in today's matchup. If New England can bust through the Jets' offensive line then it'll be tough surfing for California boy Mark Sanchez. Its about 60 degrees warmer than the last matchup in January and lets hope that's not the only difference. GO PATS!!!
PREDICTION
Jets-14
PATS-31
PREDICTION
Jets-14
PATS-31
A Banner Night For Boston -October 6, 2011
It was a beautiful scene in the TD Garden on Thursday night for the Bruins season opener. With the lights completely off, a video recap of the 2011 Bruins' Stanley Cup run was played with motivational type music in the background. Then all of a sudden the sheet under the jumbotron, being used as a video screen, dropped to the ice. Behind it was the 2011 Boston Bruins' championship banner. Its yellow glow filled the arena with excitement and even some tears. Next, the PA announcer announced the Bruins as a team and there they came through the smoke filled tunnel. The first player to be seen was the towering defenseman and captain, Zdeno Chara, who was hoisting the cup for one last time. The Garden faithful was in for a real treat. Bruins' all-time greats such as Bobby Orr, Derek Sanderson, and many more came onto the ice to raise the banner to the rafters. When the banner was finally in place and Garden favorite, Rene Rancourt, sang the national anthem it was time to play some hockey. This season will be tougher than any other for these young Boston Bruins. They have no idea how badly the other teams want to beat them into the ice. The targets on their backs are larger than ever. However, if they can overcome it all by the time the post-season arrives they will be greatly battle tested. Here's to a fresh new banner for the city of Boston! Go B's!
Feel it coming in the air -October 4, 2011
As the players and coaches prepare, the ground crew makes sure the field is in top shape, and kegs of beer get loaded into Gillette Stadium the rest of us wait for a clash of one two of the biggest rivals in football. Last time the Pats faced the Jets was the 2010 Playoffs and the Patriots were heavy favorites to cruise to the Super Bowl. Unfortunately the Pats left their A-game at home and they collapsed to the feet of Rex Ryan and the Jets. This week a new chapter will be unveiled in the epic rivalry. Will the ground n' pound Jets run over the Patriots? Or will Tom Brady's patriot missiles be too much for the Jets to handle? The answer comes Sunday night. The only bad thing about this game is that the gametime forecast is 80 degrees! Many people love the warm weather but c'mon mother nature this is football season. Nothin' beats a classic, chilly October day with hot cup of coffee and a sweatshirt. But hey I guess that dream awaits us for another day. I don't want to get into a preview for this game just yet (that will come later this week) but the Jets might come into Foxboro with a passing gameplan instead of their usual ground attack. Can you blame them though? The Patriots' pass defense is WEAK. You got to be worried about Plax and Holmes matched up with our secondary. That's where the Belichick comes in! He'll come up with the perfect scheme for Sanchez's offense. In Bill we trust! The preparation begins...
Who will steal spotlight this week? Bruins or Pats? -October 3, 2011
What a week it will be for Boston sports fanatics. First up on the menu we got the B's raising the banner and kickin' off a "Gahden pahty" against the rival Philadelphia Flyers to start the 2011-2012 NHL season. Nothing beats a good ol' ceremony with the banner going up into the rafters to be forever sealed in history and soaking in the last of a championship. But once that puck drops none of it matters anymore. The players will have to put that in their rearview and move on to their next goal (literally). With the two top teams in the Eastern Conference facing off it should be a very physical game of hockey from the drop of the puck to the final siren. 3 days later and 30 miles south down in Foxboro a very important matchup between the Pats and Jets will take place. The Jets are a game back in the standings as of now after losing 2 straight games but you gotta know that they're gonna bring it against the Patriots. For the Pats it will be the first time since that cold day in hell back in January when the mighty Patriots (14-2) lost to the damn Jets (11-5). Brady and company will be out for revenge on NYJ but it will not be easy, especially for the defense. Jerod Mayo (2010 NFL leading tackler) will be out about 6 weeks with a sprained MCL and that could spell trouble for an already struggling defense. Hopefully CB Ras-I Downling can come back this week so he can cover the fresh outta jail WR, Plaxico Burress. Burress has height and Dowling is the tallest corner on the Pats' roster so his presence will be needed. Batten down the hatches Beantown fans because its about to get crazy up in here this week.
Pats' ground game pounds Oakland -October 2, 2011
Ten years ago these two teams lined up on a snow field in Foxboro and created one of the most memorable playoff games of all time. On Sunday they met again but this time in sunny Oakland. The defense of the Patriots had a large target on their backs after allowing the most yardage in the league after the first 3 weeks of play. Once again they allowed a plethora of yards but for the first time this year they buckled down in the redzone and only gave up 19 points to the Raiders. Patrick Chung made an early return and thank goodness he was back. The high-flying safety came up with possibly the biggest play in the game, intercepting QB Jason Campbell at the end of the first half. That pick was a turning point in this game and it was recycled into 3 points for New England. Speaking of interceptions, Vince Wilfork recorded his 2nd pick on the year. On the offensive side Tom Brady was Tom terrific once again, throwing for 226 yards and 2 TDs. But surprisingly Brady was not the main factor in this win. The combination of rookie RB Stevan Ridley(97 yards) and BenJarvus Green-Ellis(75 yards) pounding the ball down Oakland's throat was the key to this victory. It was great to see a more balanced attack from the Patriots as they try to be less dependent on Brady. Ridley and Green-Ellis each had a single touchdown as well to put NE over the top. The #1 WR in the NFL thus far, Wes Welker, snared 9 balls for 158 yards and 1 touchdown as he continues to be Brady's favorite target on the field. The Pats went on to win the game by a score of 31-19 and its the 12th consecutive game that New England has put up 30+ points (not including playoffs). On a darker note, Patriots all-pro linebacker Jerod Mayo suffered a knee injury in the first half. The injury appeared to be serious but we'll just have to sit and wait for an update. The Buffalo Bills lost today which puts them at 3-1 with the Patriots. The Jets (2-1) play in Baltimore later tonight and if they lose they will be in quite a hole, with a date with New Enlgland this Sunday at the razor.
Can Stevan Ridley be the new feature back in New England? He sure seems to fit the job.
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: Week 4 @ Oakland
As the calendar turns a page to the month of October the Pats turn the page to their next opponent, the hot Oakland Raiders. Oakland has the capability of being a pretty solid team behind their horse of a running back Darren McFadden. Look for the Raiders' offense to go at the Pats with a balanced attack. Quarterback Jason Campbell is not even close to a top of the line QB but after seeing what the Pats' defense has allowed it's tough to say that he will have a tough day. Our boys are gonna need all the troops this Sunday. That includes DT Albert Haynesworth, S Patrick Chung, CB Ras-I Dowling, and TE Aaron Hernandez. Those 4 key guys missed last week and it was a rather large blow to the Patriots gameplan. Without Chung in defensive backfield the Raiders will have the whole field to do what they wish because Sergio Brown and Josh Barrett have not been proven worthy of the task at safety. So let's hope he's healthy and roaring to go this Sunday in the Bay area. I expect Brady to dissect the Oakland defense with ease and hopefully the running game can get going. Whoever runs the ball more effectively usually controls the game and let's face it the Raiders have a large edge in that area. In order to shutdown their ground game the Pats will have to score early and often. If they can execute that then they will force Oakland to switch to their passing game which is far less effective. The largest conundrum with the Pats so far this season is that they are completely one dimensional. All they can do is pass the ball. They are by far the best team at airing out the rock but you gotta be more balanced if you want to rack up the W's. They show no effectiveness on defense(pass rush is terrible) and they don't run the ball well consistently. It's very early in the season and they've got plenty of time to diagnose their issues but if they don't take care of it they will falter...again. This game against Oakland is a very big game for a few reasons: The Jets are matched up against the heavyweight Ravens IN Baltimore so they have a great chance of losing, if the East comes down to a tiebreaker for common opponents then they will have an edge over the Jets(with a victory Sunday), and lastly but most obviously the Pats do not want to lose 2 straight because it will just put more pressure on the squad since they rarely ever lose back to back games(its been done only twice since 2006). The Patriots can no longer rely on Tom Brady saving them by putting up monster numbers. That time has got to end now. It's time for the defense to step up and grow a pair this week in Cali. They've got to make a name for themselves ASAP.
PREDICTION
PATS-35
Raiders-24
PREDICTION
PATS-35
Raiders-24
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Tale of two halves in Buffalo -September 25, 2011
The only game between two undefeated teams took place in Buffalo between the Pats(2-0) and the Bills(2-0). Somethin' had to give in western New York. Even though the Bills had not beaten the Pats since 2003 they came into this one with much confidence. They felt that they were not the underdogs and that right there was the difference between this team and the Bills of the past. From the get go it was all Patriots. A couple of early interceptions by CB Kyle Arrington set up Brady and the offense to light up the scoreboard. After one TD pass to Wes Welker and a pair to Rob Gronkowski it was 21-0 New England. But Bills' QB Ryan Fitzpatrick went to Harvard and he was smart enough to ignore the first half horror show. He and the Bills' offense came roaring back into the game and shattered the Patriots' defense. Brady then got the chance to ice the Bills and he threw 4 costly picks in key situations (2 were really not his fault). One of the intercepions was returned for a touchdown. That was the dagger in the game for New England. With the score knotted up at 31-31 late in the 4th, Fitzpatrick led the Bills into New England territory where they would eventually send the game winning kick through the uprights to win the game. All of Patriots Nation dropped their heads in shame as they lost to the Buffalo Bills for the first time since 2003...wow. The 2011 Bills are now 3-0...wow. Hey at least the Jets lost, and speaking of that they lost to the uprising Raiders who will host the Pats next Sunday in Oakland. That's right folks the Pats are heading into the "Black Hole". Hopefully Belichick can rally the troops and get back on track this week.
Pissah's Picks: Week 3
AJ(22-10) Andrew(25-7) B-rad(23-9) Harrison(22-10) Drew(0-0) Mike(23-9)
NE @ Buf: NE NE NE NE NE NE
Jax @ Car: Car Car Car Car Car Car
SF @ Cin: SF SF Cin SF SF Cin
Mia @ Cle: Mia Mia Cle Mia Mia Mia
Det @ Min: Det Det Det Det Det Det
Hou @ NO: NO NO Hou NO NO NO
NYG @ Phi: Phi NYG Phi Phi Phi Phi
Den @ Ten: Ten Ten Ten Ten Ten Ten
NYJ @ Oak: Oak NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ Oak
KC @ SD: SD SD SD SD SD SD
Bal @ Stl: Bal Bal Bal Bal Bal Bal
GB @ Chi: GB GB GB GB GB GB
Ari @ Sea: Ari Ari Ari Ari Ari Ari
Atl @ TB: TB Atl Atl Atl Atl TB
Pit @ Ind: Pit Pit Pit Pit Pit Pit
Was @ Dal: Was Was Dal Was Dal Was
NE @ Buf: NE NE NE NE NE NE
Jax @ Car: Car Car Car Car Car Car
SF @ Cin: SF SF Cin SF SF Cin
Mia @ Cle: Mia Mia Cle Mia Mia Mia
Det @ Min: Det Det Det Det Det Det
Hou @ NO: NO NO Hou NO NO NO
NYG @ Phi: Phi NYG Phi Phi Phi Phi
Den @ Ten: Ten Ten Ten Ten Ten Ten
NYJ @ Oak: Oak NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ Oak
KC @ SD: SD SD SD SD SD SD
Bal @ Stl: Bal Bal Bal Bal Bal Bal
GB @ Chi: GB GB GB GB GB GB
Ari @ Sea: Ari Ari Ari Ari Ari Ari
Atl @ TB: TB Atl Atl Atl Atl TB
Pit @ Ind: Pit Pit Pit Pit Pit Pit
Was @ Dal: Was Was Dal Was Dal Was
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: Week 3 @ Buffalo -September 24,2011
For the first time in ages there will be a meaning to a game between the Pats and Buffalo Bills. The Bills are 2-0 after putting up 79 total points in their first two matchups. Harvard graduate Ryan Fitzpatrick has been amazing for Buffalo at quarterback and so had RB Fred Jackson. But lets not give anything to Buffalo just yet, I mean they haven't beaten the Pats since 2003, that's 15 straight victories for New England. So on Sunday Brady and Co. will be going for 16-0 against the new look Bills. Brady will pass 1,000 yards this week and it has only been 3 games! Is it me or does Tommy boy keep gettin' better and better? Our boys on D should be able to shutdown the ground attack that Buffalo has to offer in Jackson/Spiller but I'm more worried about Fitzpatrick. The Bills do not have the tall, physical receivers that San Diego and Miami had but Stevie Johnson could give Mccourty some trouble, especially because of the banged up secondary the Pats have (Chung and Ras-I Dowling limited all week). Another worry for the Pats is that tight end Aaron Hernandez will not play this week and that is a letdown due to his dominance in the first two weeks. With Brady's #1 target out we could see the offense slow down a bit from their usual dominance. But the Patriots ground game will be pounding that ball all game I think, history shows that Buffalo has been a fairly easy team to run on. If you have Benjarvus Green-Ellis or Danny Woodhead on your fantasy team I recommend you start them this week. Speaking of fantasy, Rob Gronkowski is gonna have a monster game so start him without a doubt. I guarentee you that he will put up big numbers. But back to reality, expect a close one from Buffalo as the Pats and Bills battle for the east...wait did I just say that right?
1)Branch will lead Pats in receptions
2)Gronkowski will have multiple TD's
3)Pats ground attack will get well over 100 yards total
PREDICTION
PATS-27
Bills-17
1)Branch will lead Pats in receptions
2)Gronkowski will have multiple TD's
3)Pats ground attack will get well over 100 yards total
PREDICTION
PATS-27
Bills-17
Pats cruise by San Diego to become 2-0 -September 18, 2011
It was a beautiful fall day in New England on Sunday when Tom Brady led the Patriots into battle against the San Diego Chargers. All the fans piled into the stadium for the first time this season and they were all "lubed up" to propel the boys to victory. If the Patriots didn't make a statement last Monday in Miami (Brady 517 passing yards) then they sure as hell did against SD. For the second consecutive week Brady threw for over 400 yards and is on pace to throw for over 7,000 yards on the season! The stats are just mind-boggling to think about. The offense was surgical in their beatdown of the Chargers defense. The new style "hurry up offense" that NE is running just devours the opposing D (Rex Ryan must be shakin' in his boots down in New York). The bend but don't break defense of the Pats came up with 5 huge plays (2 INTS, 2 Fumbles, 1 goal-line stand). Jerod Mayo was ferocious for the Patriots defense. He forced a fumble in a key part of the game and stuck San Diego RB Mike Tolbert at the goal-line on 4th down to shutdown the Chargers momentum. Add an interception by Sergio Brown and big ol' Vince Wilfork (yes, I said Wilfork) and that's a pretty good day for the D. The two headed monster of Hernandez/Gronkowski trampled San Diego while combining for 3 TDs. I have no idea how any team can stop EITHER of these guys, it almost seems unfair to all the other teams in the league. When the clock hit 0:00 the Pats had crushed the Chargers 35-21 in a game where Brady ruled the air....again. The question then pops up, "is this team better than 2007?". The answer to that for now is absolutely. In '07 the Pats had 1 or 2 options on offense and no running game what so ever. Now in 2011 they've got at least 7 options to throw to and a fine stable of running backs who can pound the rock. Yes, I know its only been two games but the question is like a cup of chili in Wilfork's locker, its tough to ignore. This team has the firepower to do things unimaginable but they just got to focus on one thing for now, the Buffalo Bills.
Pissah's Picks: Week 2 -September 17, 2011
AJ (8-8) Andrew (11-5) Mike (9-7) B-rad (12-4) Harrison(10-6)
Oak @ Buf: BUF OAK BUF OAK BUF
GB @ Car: GB GB GB GB GB
KC @ Det: DET DET DET DET DET
Cle @ Ind: CLE CLE IND CLE IND
TB @ Min: TB TB TB TB TB
Chi @ NO: NO NO NO NO NO
Jax @ NYJ: NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ
Sea @ Pit: PIT PIT PIT PIT PIT
Bal @ Ten: BAL BAL BAL BAL BAL
Ari @ Was: WAS WAS WAS ARI WAS
Dal @ SF: DAL DAL DAL DAL DAL
Cin @ Den: DEN DEN DEN DEN DEN
Hou @ Mia: HOU HOU HOU HOU HOU
SD @ NE: NE NE NE NE NE
Phi @ Atl: PHI ATL ATL PHI PHI
Stl @ NYG: NYG NYG NYG STL STL
Oak @ Buf: BUF OAK BUF OAK BUF
GB @ Car: GB GB GB GB GB
KC @ Det: DET DET DET DET DET
Cle @ Ind: CLE CLE IND CLE IND
TB @ Min: TB TB TB TB TB
Chi @ NO: NO NO NO NO NO
Jax @ NYJ: NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ
Sea @ Pit: PIT PIT PIT PIT PIT
Bal @ Ten: BAL BAL BAL BAL BAL
Ari @ Was: WAS WAS WAS ARI WAS
Dal @ SF: DAL DAL DAL DAL DAL
Cin @ Den: DEN DEN DEN DEN DEN
Hou @ Mia: HOU HOU HOU HOU HOU
SD @ NE: NE NE NE NE NE
Phi @ Atl: PHI ATL ATL PHI PHI
Stl @ NYG: NYG NYG NYG STL STL
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: Week 2 vs San Diego -September 15, 2011
The Pats are gonna be back for some home cooking this Sunday at Gillette and Tom Brady said it best. The superstar QB said that fans should start drinking early and get rowdy. He wants all of Patriot Nation to get pumped up and set the tone for the home opener. So c'mon fans lets bring the noise this Sunday. Make Phillip Rivers feel like he's walking into hell when he jogs down that tunnel at Gillette. The game on the other hand should be fantastic. A classic New England fall day will lead to many passing yards for these two elite quarterbacks. Phillip Rivers always tosses for a boat load of yards and Tommy boy is hot off a 517 yard performance (by far his career best). San Diego's defense is very similar to the Pats'. The only difference being that the Pats have several more playmakers. Expect the New England secondary to get torn apart like a Thanksgiving dinner but I think Brady will come up with the last laugh. This game is gonna be a fight to the finish because both Brady and Rivers are fueled to win. Clean off the grills, pack up the tent, and get the beer out because its tailgating season once again! Here are the 3 predictions for Sunday:
1)Brady and Rivers will combine for over 650 yards
2)Pat Chung will have a day on the defensive end
3)Look for Edelman to threaten SD with his punt returns and kick returns (Chargers Special Teams is terrible)
PREDICTION
Chargers-27
PATS-35
1)Brady and Rivers will combine for over 650 yards
2)Pat Chung will have a day on the defensive end
3)Look for Edelman to threaten SD with his punt returns and kick returns (Chargers Special Teams is terrible)
PREDICTION
Chargers-27
PATS-35
Tom Terrific delivers the goods as Pats route 'Phins in opener -September 12,2011
What a way to start the season for Tom Brady. He put up monster numbers in this one, throwing for 517 yds (career high) and 4 TD's as the Pats demolished the Dolphins 38-24. Brady set the tone from the beginning when he drove the offense 78 yards down field where RB Benjarvus Green-Ellis pounded it in for a TD. From there on it was smooth sailing for New England. Brady wasn't the only one who had a great game either. Running back Danny Woodhead ran for 69 yards as he and Green-Ellis combined for over 100 yards on the night. On the defensive side of the ball it was a bit of a struggle but the D seems to have come a long way which is great to see. Haynesworth, Wilfork, and the rest of the D-line were great all night at stopping the run and thats what they're there for. If Brady played this well against Miami, who has a pretty solid defense, then imagine what he can do against some of these other teams out there.....scary. Week 1 is in the books and it was a wicked pissah way to uncork the 2011 season.
Mr. 517
Wicked Pissah Pats Preview: Week 1 @ Miami -September 12,2011
Can you believe it folks? The Pats are back and better than ever after "beefing" up their D-line and adding Ochocinco to the offensive mix. Tonight our boys will be taking on the Dolphins down in hot n' humid Miami for some Monday night mayhem. Its hard to say what I expect because of the up and down preseason but I'm gonna go ahead and say that it should be a fairly easy win if they play like they can. This game all comes down to both lines. If the defensive line can put pressure on Miami and force them to make mistakes the defense will cruise. If the O-line can protect Brady and give him enough time in the pocket then it will be a breeze. But if one of these lines slips up at all then it could get messy for New England. The only way I see the 'Phins winning this game is if they put pressure on Brady all night long and force him to rush and if Chad Henne can lead his Miami troops on the offensive end. The game will be up to Henne because Reggie Bush and the Miami running game will get shut down especially if DT Albert Haynesworth plays (he's questionable for this game). Here's 3 predictions for this game:
1)Hernandez will lead the Pats in receiving
2)Green-Ellis/Woodhead will run all over Miami
3)Pats D will record at least 3 sacks
PREDICTION
PATS-31
Dolphins-17
GO PATS!!!
1)Hernandez will lead the Pats in receiving
2)Green-Ellis/Woodhead will run all over Miami
3)Pats D will record at least 3 sacks
PREDICTION
PATS-31
Dolphins-17
GO PATS!!!
Pissah's Picks: Week 1 -September 10, 2011
AJ Andrew Mike B-rad Harrison
New Orleans @ Green Bay: NO GB GB GB GB
Pittsburgh @ Baltimore: PIT PIT PIT BAL PIT
Atlanta @ Chicago: ATL CHI ATL ATL ATL
Cincinnati @ Cleveland: CLE CLE CLE CLE CLE
Indianapolis @ Houston: HOU HOU HOU HOU HOU
Tennessee @ Jacksonville: JAX TEN TEN TEN TEN
Buffalo @ Kansas City: KC KC KC BUF KC
Philadelphia @ St. Louis: STL PHI STL PHI PHI
Detroit @ Tampa Bay: DET DET DET DET DET
Carolina @ Arizona: CAR ARI ARI ARI ARI
Minnesota @ San Diego: SD SD SD SD SD
Seattle @ San Francisco: SF SF SF SF SF
New York(Giants) @ Washington: WAS NYG WAS NYG NYG
Dallas @ New York(Jets): DAL NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ
New England @ Miami: NE NE NE NE NE
Oakland @ Denver: OAK OAK DEN OAK OAK
New Orleans @ Green Bay: NO GB GB GB GB
Pittsburgh @ Baltimore: PIT PIT PIT BAL PIT
Atlanta @ Chicago: ATL CHI ATL ATL ATL
Cincinnati @ Cleveland: CLE CLE CLE CLE CLE
Indianapolis @ Houston: HOU HOU HOU HOU HOU
Tennessee @ Jacksonville: JAX TEN TEN TEN TEN
Buffalo @ Kansas City: KC KC KC BUF KC
Philadelphia @ St. Louis: STL PHI STL PHI PHI
Detroit @ Tampa Bay: DET DET DET DET DET
Carolina @ Arizona: CAR ARI ARI ARI ARI
Minnesota @ San Diego: SD SD SD SD SD
Seattle @ San Francisco: SF SF SF SF SF
New York(Giants) @ Washington: WAS NYG WAS NYG NYG
Dallas @ New York(Jets): DAL NYJ NYJ NYJ NYJ
New England @ Miami: NE NE NE NE NE
Oakland @ Denver: OAK OAK DEN OAK OAK
NFL to unbox 2011 season on Thursday night:Saints @ Packers
Hows it hangin' football freaks and gridiron geeks? ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? It seems like it has been forever since Aaron Rodgers and Clay Mathews were up on that stage in Dallas hoisting the Lombardi Trophy above their heads. The glimmer of light coming off the trophy made them look like gods among the fans and their teammates. Confetti and smoke filled the air behind them as they reached the peak of NFL greatness. Now the champs are back and will be hosting the Saints (Champions of 2 years ago) in the annual NFL Kickoff game which takes place Thursday night. It will be a great game of air it out football with two of the NFL's elite QB's, the Packers' Aaron Rodgers and the Saints' Drew Brees. The past two Super Bowl champions playing at the NFL's most historic field, what better way to start the 2011 season.
Two Super Bowl winning QB's going at eachother
As September rolls in it'll be all about the Pats -September 1, 2011
Can you believe its already September? Where did the summer go? The nights are getting colder and snow will be here before you know it (getting cold just thinking about it). But were getting off track here, this post is about the month ahead for Boston sports. As you can see I don't write about baseball at all but the Sox have a legitimate shot at another championship. They're in a very important series against the Yankees right now and as always it will be a tight finish for sure. September's "main event" will be the Pats' first game which will be down in humid Miami as Monday Night Football makes their 2011 debut on ESPN. School will be back in session and so will football. Nothin' like the smell of tailgating at Gillette! Gotta love the fall in New England. The Pre-season will wrap up tonight and thank god it does. I don't think I could sit through another meaningless football game watching the "future" play. After tonight Belichick will not sleep for the rest of the season. This is when he will begin his "master plan" to demolish everyone in the league and take down Rex Ryan and the damn Jets. The Pats will be in full force.
PATS 2011 September Schedule
9-12-11 @ Miami 7:00 P.M.
9-18-11 San Diego 4:15 P.M.
9-25-11 @ Buffalo 1:00 P.M.
PATS 2011 September Schedule
9-12-11 @ Miami 7:00 P.M.
9-18-11 San Diego 4:15 P.M.
9-25-11 @ Buffalo 1:00 P.M.
Pats Preseason: Part III The Lion king -August 27, 2011
Saturday night in Detroit will be the closest thing to actual Patriots' football we see until September 12 down in South Beach. Tom Brady, Chad Ochocinco, Jerod Mayo, Vince Wilfork, and the rest of the starters are expected to play into the 3rd quarter tonight. After last weeks "show" on both sides of the ball I am very excited to see if they can repeat it against a different team. You guys hear the name Detroit Lions and think of their disastrous seasons in the past. Don't be fooled folks, this team is on the rise for sure. They might even have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL with last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year winner Ndamukong Suh and quarterback killer Kyle Vanden Bosch. It should be an interesting game and I can't wait to see the Pats' pass rush crush the QB once again! (hence #93 Andre Carter). Lets see if Tommy Boy can lead the boys to victory for the third time this preseason. Go Pats!!!
Andre Carter is a beast on the defensive line, his presence will be seen Saturday night
Weekend Plans: Pats Saturday night.....check, Hurricane Sunday.....double check -August 24, 2011
As we head into one of the final weekends of summer here in New England there is chaos across the east coast. I'm not talking about kids moving into colleges all over, I'm talking about Hurricane Irene. Its currently barreling towards the coast of Rhode Island like Vince Wilfork sprinting to the buffet line after they just brought out the bacon. At this point we're not sure who is in more fear, the Detroit Lions who are about to face the Pats or New Englanders who are buckling down the hatches in the calm before the storm. What better way to end the summer than with a hurricane? Talk about ending with a bang. The Wicked Pissah Crew will be sticking it out at the 1st ever Wicked Pissah Hurrican Party™ Saturday night into Sunday. Whether or not we'll have electricity remains a bigger mystery than whatever it is that Taco Bell is serving us these days. So stay safe folks, don't do anything crazy during this storm. I'll see you on the other side of this BEAST.
Fantasy Football: More than just a game -August 23, 2011
You guys smell that in the air? That's the smell of Fantasy Football season and its beginning all over the country. Some drafts have already taken place for the fans with no patience but the smarter fans will wait until after the pre-season in case of injuries to major players. Its amazing how popular Fantasy Football has gotten around the country. Almost every male out there who knows what a football is is taking part in this sensation. Fantasy Football is like a disease for men and its spreading rapidly across the nation. There is no cure and no vaccine for this disease. Women hate it more than anything because their husband/boyfriend think its more important than being with her, and in some cases it is...(sorry ladies). Casual guys just play it for the feel to be able to trade and pick up their favorite players while bragging to their friends and co-workers. On the other hand you have the hardcore fans who put money on the line in their quest for becoming a Fantasy Football champion. No matter how you play the outcome is always the same, its friggin' awesome. So c'mon guys of America create a league or join a league now. Go grab a beer, order some pizza, make sure those wings are perfect, and get your boys together for some football fun because it'll be over before you know it.
Become Legendary
The Arms Race 2011: Pats n' Jets -August 14, 2011
Bill Belichick hated the taste in his mouth after losing to the Jets last January, and he hopes to never have the feeling ever again. So this off-season the Pats have reloaded big time. Stock-piling superstars left and right. It all started with pro bowler DT Albert Haynesworth who will bust through offensive linemen alongside Vince Wilfork. Then came the trade for Ochocinco. A very talented receiver who realized it was finally to grow up and start focusing on winning. Meanwhile, miles away in New York the Jets were building as well. They re-signed Super Bowl 43 hero Santonio Holmes and took a chance on WR Plaxico Burress, who was fresh out of prison. No denying the talent Burress wields but the guy hasn't played in 3 years and has a bullet wound in his foot. But with 2 wide receivers with Super Bowl winning catches under their belts on both sides of Sanchez, the risk just might be worth it. New England then made sure Brady would be protected for years to come by signing all-pro guard Logan Mankins for 6 more years. Things then got interesting when longtime Jets defensive end Shaun Ellis signed with the Pats to help out their pass rush needs. Rex Ryan went on to say that he hopes Ellis doesn't succeed in NE. Now the Pats could be on the verge of more firepower. This week WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh and S Darren Sharper will be working out with the Patriots at camp. Houshmandzadeh is a veteran who knows how to get the ball, he tied for most receptions in 2007 with Wes Welker. Darren Sharper on the other hand is a flat out leader. Similar to Rodney Harrison, Sharper hits very hard and can make the big play on defense. In 2009 he led the Saints defense and gave Nola their first ever Super Bowl championship. Both of these aging veterans can still provide some "pop" for the Pats and their quest for their 4th Super Bowl. I think it'd be a great signing for the Patriots because Sharper or Housh wouldn't have to be major pieces to the puzzle, they would just have to help the team and provide depth. These two guys are too old to be major factors now but they can certainly help the Pats.
Backups CRUSH Jags in Pre-season opener -August 12, 2011
All Pats fans were pumped up for some football last evening but when Tom Brady was seen on the sideline with evenly parted hair and no eye black it made you realize that it was still only the pre-season. But hey, football is football and it was time to see some live action out there. Brady's two apprentices Brian Hoyer and rookie Ryan Mallet both shined in this 47-12 victory. Hoyer was 15/21 for 171 yards and 1 touchdown. The one touchdown was to 2nd year receiver Taylor Price who had one hell of a night as well. Price led the team in receiving with 5 receptions for 105 yards and that TD from Hoyer. Mallet took over under center in the 2nd half and he showed some promise. The kid from Arkansas was 12/19 for 164 yards and 1 TD to fellow rookie Stevan Ridley. Speaking of Ridley, he was the player of the game on Thursday night at the Razor. The rookie running back out of LSU had a huge night with 64 yards rushing and 3 count em 3 touchdowns (2 rushing, 1 receiving). Overall I think the Pats looked great last night. Yes there were mistakes but its only the 1st pre-season game. But you wanna know what the best part of Thursday night was? It is very overlooked but the Pats only had 4 total penalties for only 25 yards! With this game consisting of mostly rookies and young guys that is absolutely amazing for this early in the season. We'll see how the boys look next week when they head down to Tampa to face the Bucs. Go Pats!!!
Pats set to kick off Pre-season tonight against Jags -August 11, 2011
It feels like its been forever since the last time we saw the boys in blue. It was a cold January night(and it must have been a cold day in hell too) when the Pats lost to the....do I really have to say it? The Jets. But tonight a new season begins and the fans get to see actual football being played. Even if the starters don't play much it's awesome to see the backups battle for their football lives out there on the turf. I wouldn't expect to see too much of Brady in this one, maybe a quarter at most. But with Belichick on the sideline who the hell knows what's gonna happen. Here are three predictions for in this Pre-season game:
1) Julian Edelman will have a great night, returning punts and receiving
2) Rookie RB Stevan Ridley will get the majority of the carries in the backfield
3) Darius Butler is fighting hard for a spot, look for him to be aggressive
Keep an eye out for those three things during this game. Its only a pre-season game but man is it great to have football back! LETS GO PATS!!!
1) Julian Edelman will have a great night, returning punts and receiving
2) Rookie RB Stevan Ridley will get the majority of the carries in the backfield
3) Darius Butler is fighting hard for a spot, look for him to be aggressive
Keep an eye out for those three things during this game. Its only a pre-season game but man is it great to have football back! LETS GO PATS!!!
Super Bowl XLVI Prediction: Pats-Eagles, you pick the winner: -August 11, 2011
2011 NFL Pre-season Predictions: Conference Championships Playoffs
AFC
Pats(1) over Jets(5)
NFC
Eagles(1) over Falcons(3)
Pats(1) over Jets(5)
NFC
Eagles(1) over Falcons(3)
2011 NFL Pre-season Predictions: Divisional round Playoffs -August 10, 2011
AFC
Patriots(1) over Steelers(6)
Jets(5) over Ravens(2)
NFC
Eagles(1) over Bucs(4)
Falcons(3) over Packers(2)
Patriots(1) over Steelers(6)
Jets(5) over Ravens(2)
NFC
Eagles(1) over Bucs(4)
Falcons(3) over Packers(2)
2011 NFL Pre-season Predictions: Wild Card round Playoffs -August 8, 2011
AFC
Steelers(6) over Colts(3)
Jets(5) over Chargers(4)
NFC
Falcons(3) over Giants(6)
Bucs(4) over 49ers(5)
Steelers(6) over Colts(3)
Jets(5) over Chargers(4)
NFC
Falcons(3) over Giants(6)
Bucs(4) over 49ers(5)
2011 NFL Pre-season Predictions: AFC -August 5, 2011
EAST
1-Patriots*
2-Jets*
3-Bills
4-Dolphins
WEST
1-Chargers*
2-Chiefs
3-Raiders
4-Broncos
NORTH
1-Ravens*
2-Steelers*
3-Browns
4-Bengals
SOUTH
1-Colts*
2-Jaguars
3-Texans
4-Titans
1-Patriots*
2-Jets*
3-Bills
4-Dolphins
WEST
1-Chargers*
2-Chiefs
3-Raiders
4-Broncos
NORTH
1-Ravens*
2-Steelers*
3-Browns
4-Bengals
SOUTH
1-Colts*
2-Jaguars
3-Texans
4-Titans
The Pats have been the NFL's best for the past decade, in 2011 they might have the most complete team that they've ever had.
2011 NFL Pre-season Predictions: NFC -August 4, 2011
EAST
1-Eagles*
2-Giants*
3-Cowboys
4-Redskins
WEST
1-49ers*
2-Rams
3-Cardinals
4-Seahawks
NORTH
1-Packers*
2-Vikings
3-Lions
4-Bears
SOUTH
1-Falcons*
2-Bucs*
3-Saints
4-Panthers
1-Eagles*
2-Giants*
3-Cowboys
4-Redskins
WEST
1-49ers*
2-Rams
3-Cardinals
4-Seahawks
NORTH
1-Packers*
2-Vikings
3-Lions
4-Bears
SOUTH
1-Falcons*
2-Bucs*
3-Saints
4-Panthers
The 2011 Eagles are scary, sexy, and most of all...FAST! They will be atop the NFC when its all said and done.
PATS please the season tix holders with in-stadium practice -August 3, 2011
It was beautiful summer night at Gillette when the Pats took their training camp inside the stadium to the turf. The boys looked great even though they weren't in full pads. With wide receivers Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, Chad Ochocinco, and Brandon Tate on our side this year I love our chances at the Lombardi Trophy. And thats without mentioning Aaron Hernandez and big ol' Rob Gronkowski! The whole night at Gillette was a success for both the players and fans. The crowd was chanting "happy birthday" to Tom Brady and he gave the fans a wave to thank them. Football just can't start soon enough! Wes Welker told the Wicked Pissah Crew that Edelman was spotted wearing the WPW official shirt with pride yesterday while leaving the stadium. Edelman also was happy to see the WPW Crew again (hopefully) and because of our boy Julian we will be ordering WPW Snapback hats. Yes I said snapbacks!! Thanks to Juilian and Wes for the autographs! And also to Dan "loaf of bread" Connolly and Sebastian Vollmer. GO PATS!
Happy Birthday Tommy Boy -August 3, 2011
Happy 34th to the 2-time MVP and 3-time Super Bowl champion
The Best
Dominance in the making? -August 1, 2011
While the offense has always been amazing in New England behind the arm of Tom Brady, the defense has collapsed like the Roman Empire back in the day. From 2001 to 2005 the Patriots defense was absolutely dominant. They had the ability to take over games and win them. For the Patriots of 2007-2010 it was all about offense. The offense was the defense basically. And that's not how you're supposed to win games. The famous quote "DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS" is 100% correct. All the great Patriot teams that won the championships in 2001, 2003, and 2004 had one thing in common. They had DOMINANT defenses. Under Bill Belichick the Pats have always had a 3-4 scheme on defense. After picking up DT Albert Haynesworth and cutting longtime friend DE Ty Warren and OLB Tully Banta-Cain it appears that the Pats are moving on to a 4-3. Here is the starting lineup that is most likely to be put in place for opening day:
DE- Mike Wright
DT- Albert Haynesworth
DT- Vince Wilfork
DE- Jermaine Cunningham
LB- Gary Guyton/ Dane Fletcher
LB- Jerod Mayo
LB- Brandon Spikes/ Rob Ninkovich
CB- Devin McCourty
CB- Leigh Bodden/ Ras-I Dowling
SS- Brandon Meriweather
FS- Pat Chung
DE- Mike Wright
DT- Albert Haynesworth
DT- Vince Wilfork
DE- Jermaine Cunningham
LB- Gary Guyton/ Dane Fletcher
LB- Jerod Mayo
LB- Brandon Spikes/ Rob Ninkovich
CB- Devin McCourty
CB- Leigh Bodden/ Ras-I Dowling
SS- Brandon Meriweather
FS- Pat Chung
Free-Agent Frenzy -July 31, 2011
When the lockout ended last Monday the NFL kicked into full gear and that's putting it lightly. An avalanche of transactions took place throughout the week leaving many sports fanatics with headaches. It was almost like it was too much to handle all at once. A perfect way to put this previous week is to say it was like a dam cracking open and everything it was holding back spilt out into a watery mess. But here are the top deals and trades that were made in the week the lockout was finally broken.
CB-Nnamdi Asomugha -------> Eagles
DE-Jason Babin --------> Eagles
WR-Plaxico Burress --------> NY Jets
WR-Chad Ochocinco --------> Patriots
DT- Albert Haynesworth ------> Patriots
QB- Donovan McNabb --------> Vikings
QB- Matt Hasselbeck --------> Titans
QB- Kevin Kolb ---------> Cardinals
CB- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie ----> Eagles
TE- Todd Heap ----------> Cardinals
WR- Santonio Holmes ---------> NY Jets
QB- Tarvaris Jackson ---------> Seahawks
RB- Reggie Bush ----------> Dolphins
RB- Darren Sproles ----------> Saints
FB- Vonta Leach -----------> Ravens
WR- Mike Sims-Walker ----------> Rams
LB- Takeo Spikes ----------> Chargers
RB- Tim Hightower -----------> Redskins
RB- DeAngelo Williams ----------> Panthers
S- Eric Weddle ------------> Chargers
WR- Donte' Stallworth -----------> Redskins
WR- Brad Smith ------------> Bills
WR- Sidney Rice -------------> Seahawks
WR- Santana Moss --------------> Redskins
S- Dawan Landry ---------------> Jaguars
DE- Cullen Jenkins ---------------> Eagles
WR- Vincent Jackson --------------> Chargers
G- Logan Mankins ----------------> Patriots
CB-Nnamdi Asomugha -------> Eagles
DE-Jason Babin --------> Eagles
WR-Plaxico Burress --------> NY Jets
WR-Chad Ochocinco --------> Patriots
DT- Albert Haynesworth ------> Patriots
QB- Donovan McNabb --------> Vikings
QB- Matt Hasselbeck --------> Titans
QB- Kevin Kolb ---------> Cardinals
CB- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie ----> Eagles
TE- Todd Heap ----------> Cardinals
WR- Santonio Holmes ---------> NY Jets
QB- Tarvaris Jackson ---------> Seahawks
RB- Reggie Bush ----------> Dolphins
RB- Darren Sproles ----------> Saints
FB- Vonta Leach -----------> Ravens
WR- Mike Sims-Walker ----------> Rams
LB- Takeo Spikes ----------> Chargers
RB- Tim Hightower -----------> Redskins
RB- DeAngelo Williams ----------> Panthers
S- Eric Weddle ------------> Chargers
WR- Donte' Stallworth -----------> Redskins
WR- Brad Smith ------------> Bills
WR- Sidney Rice -------------> Seahawks
WR- Santana Moss --------------> Redskins
S- Dawan Landry ---------------> Jaguars
DE- Cullen Jenkins ---------------> Eagles
WR- Vincent Jackson --------------> Chargers
G- Logan Mankins ----------------> Patriots
Day 1 of training camp is a busy one -July 28, 2011
The Wicked Pissah crew hit the streets early this morning and headed to the one and only, Gillette Stadium. The crowd erupted once the Pats appeared from afar. It was the first time since the horrific playoff loss to the Jets that the boys had been seen back in town. The 9:30 am practice was just a walkthrough but it was like Christmas morning to see all these guys back wearing Patriots jerseys. The highlight of Wicked Pissah's Day 1 trip was a quick conversation with punter Zoltan Mesko and wide receiver Julian Edelman. They both signed all our official Wicked Pissah t-shirts along with defensive tackle Ron Brace. But you guys came here to read about football not this nonsense. There was HUGE news in Patriot Nation today! Superstar receiver Chad Ochocinco (Johnson) will be in red, white, and blue this season and so will Pro Bowl defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. This two guys have a sketchy history but they are too valuable to pass on. If these guys play to their potential then the Pats will be AMAZING. Boy its great to live in New England. WPW wil head to training camp once again tomorrow as well as Saturday. On Saturday the crew will be interviewing fans with trivia and what not. If your lucky you could receive a WPW t-shirt! Go PATS!!!
it has finally happened
2011 NFL Preview: AFC East -July 26, 2011
New England: The Brady/Belichick Era has been a dominant one so far and it will continue in 2011. With the majority of the squad that went 14-2 last season returning this gives the Pats a great chance at the title. Running backs Benjarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead invented a new running game in 2010 and with the addition of rookies Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley in the draft this team could be deadly at the halfback position. Speaking of the draft, the Pats added "the giant" Nate Solder to their offensive line and Ras-I Dowling to the secondary. Wasn't it last season that everyone was talking about the Pats rebuilding? Well it seems like they are already rebuilt. Rome may not have been built in a day but the Pats were pretty damn close to doing so. With rising stars on defense like Jerod Mayo, Devin McCourty, Pat Chung, Brandon Spikes, and Brandon Meriweather playing along with veterans like Vince Wilfork and Ty Warren this defense could be really good. The Pats haven't had a dominant defense since about 2005 so it would be awesome to see it again in NE. All this being said and I still haven't talked about the reigning MVP...Tom Brady. Words cannot describe this guy, he just finds a way to win no matter what. With what should be a stone wall blocking in front of him this year he will have yet another jaw dropping season. The only real problem with the Pats is their pass rush and 3rd down defense. The Pats are one of the worst in those categories but with this D molding together like a brand new mouthguard they can only get better. The Sons of Belichick will be great in 2011 but lets just hope they can win in the playoffs...its been a while. STRENGTH-GRADE: A-/A
New York (Jets)- Rex Ryan has done a fantastic job of re-creating Jets football since he got the job in 2009. Back to back AFC Championship trips proves it too. As much as people hate him around the league you gotta love the passion he has for the game. The Jets defense may be the leagues best but some teams have figured out how to beat their system so it may be time to go back to the drawing board for Rexy. Mark Sanchez is not consistent and I don't think things will change anytime soon. Either way the Jets are certainly not going to make a change at QB. The NYJ has some pretty big re-signings to deal with before hitting the field however. Cromartie, Edwards, and Holmes are all at the end of their contracts. These guys are vital to the Jets and without them would not stand a chance. I can't see LT having a year like he did last year do to his age and past full of injuries. Bottom line is that the Jets will definitely challenge the Pats in the east but I don't see them passing them in the standings. "Now lets go eat a got damn snack!...". STRENGTH-GRADE: A-
Miami- Big problems in a lot of spots including QB. Even the running back position is in doubt and that has been their strong point for an eternity. Not to many positive things to say about the Dolphins, especially when they are in the same division as two of the best teams in the league. You still got '72 to remember Miami, right? STRENGTH-GRADE: D+
Buffalo- The only bright thing to say about the Bills is that they might not finish in last this year. I do think they are a better team than Miami but that's like saying Mall Cop is better than Wild Hogs, they both suck (no disrespect Kevin James). C.J. Spiller is a fine young running back and Ryan Fitzpatrick is not a half bad QB. Two guys can only do so much however. There is a 99.9% chance that the Bills will not win the east, mostly because they have not beaten the Pats in 8 years. Good news Buffalo... its not likely you'll move to Toronto. STRENGTH-GRADE: D+
New York (Jets)- Rex Ryan has done a fantastic job of re-creating Jets football since he got the job in 2009. Back to back AFC Championship trips proves it too. As much as people hate him around the league you gotta love the passion he has for the game. The Jets defense may be the leagues best but some teams have figured out how to beat their system so it may be time to go back to the drawing board for Rexy. Mark Sanchez is not consistent and I don't think things will change anytime soon. Either way the Jets are certainly not going to make a change at QB. The NYJ has some pretty big re-signings to deal with before hitting the field however. Cromartie, Edwards, and Holmes are all at the end of their contracts. These guys are vital to the Jets and without them would not stand a chance. I can't see LT having a year like he did last year do to his age and past full of injuries. Bottom line is that the Jets will definitely challenge the Pats in the east but I don't see them passing them in the standings. "Now lets go eat a got damn snack!...". STRENGTH-GRADE: A-
Miami- Big problems in a lot of spots including QB. Even the running back position is in doubt and that has been their strong point for an eternity. Not to many positive things to say about the Dolphins, especially when they are in the same division as two of the best teams in the league. You still got '72 to remember Miami, right? STRENGTH-GRADE: D+
Buffalo- The only bright thing to say about the Bills is that they might not finish in last this year. I do think they are a better team than Miami but that's like saying Mall Cop is better than Wild Hogs, they both suck (no disrespect Kevin James). C.J. Spiller is a fine young running back and Ryan Fitzpatrick is not a half bad QB. Two guys can only do so much however. There is a 99.9% chance that the Bills will not win the east, mostly because they have not beaten the Pats in 8 years. Good news Buffalo... its not likely you'll move to Toronto. STRENGTH-GRADE: D+
2011 NFL Preview: AFC South -July 25, 2011
Indianapolis- A bundle of struggles was featured in 2010 but Indy still managed to win the division and there is only one reason... because they have Peyton Manning on their side. Seriously this guy is unbelievable. He had a new receiver almost every week and he still managed to put up very solid stats. The Colts have got to be the fav in the South as long as Peyton Manning is on the turf firing passes to his guys. The D may be a bit weak along with their running game but its fairly safe to say that Indy will make the playoffs this season. STRENGTH-GRADE: B
Houston- Andre Johnson is the league's best wide receiver and he carries this team almost every year. He had plenty of help last season with the rising star Arian Foster but Houston tanked it once again. If Matt Schaub can return to his success at QB like he had in 2009 then this team could threaten Indianapolis for the throne of the south. Just like the 49ers they have all the pieces, they just have to put them into place. Mario Williams is a great tool to have on defense when playing against Peyton Manning but they've gotta build off of "Super Mario" if they want to reach the playoffs. STRENGTH-GRADE: C+
Jacksonville- With one of the NFL's worst attendance records the fans had a little bit to cheer for in 2010. That is before they blew it to the Colts. These guys had the division for the taking and they flat out blew it. David Garrard is a fine QB but he has had some injury problems recently. If healthy he is as dangerous as an alligator in the Everglades. Speaking of dangerous, Maurice Jones-Drew is a beast coming out of the backfield. Don't judge him by his size because if you do he won't just prove you wrong but he'll run you over like a train. Like many other teams in the NFL, the Jaguars lack a solid defense. They don't even have a foundation for their defense. With guys like Peyton Manning, Chris Johnson, and Andre Johnson in your division this is a MAJOR problem. Until the day that Jacksonville gets something that they can call a defense, these guys sill have to wait for a AFC South champions t-shirt. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
Tennessee- After picking up rookie QB Jake Locker in the 2011 draft the Titans may return to the top in 2011. Chris Johnson is like a super hero at running back. I'm glad its not my job to tackle that guy. Defenders look like Rocky trying to catch the chicken when they try to tackle Johnson. If Locker is as good as experts say then Tennessee will be frightening on offense (haven't heard that in a long time). The defense is in decent shape but could use a few new faces. With Vince Young and Jeff Fisher gone it should be interesting to see how things unfold in Nashville. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
Houston- Andre Johnson is the league's best wide receiver and he carries this team almost every year. He had plenty of help last season with the rising star Arian Foster but Houston tanked it once again. If Matt Schaub can return to his success at QB like he had in 2009 then this team could threaten Indianapolis for the throne of the south. Just like the 49ers they have all the pieces, they just have to put them into place. Mario Williams is a great tool to have on defense when playing against Peyton Manning but they've gotta build off of "Super Mario" if they want to reach the playoffs. STRENGTH-GRADE: C+
Jacksonville- With one of the NFL's worst attendance records the fans had a little bit to cheer for in 2010. That is before they blew it to the Colts. These guys had the division for the taking and they flat out blew it. David Garrard is a fine QB but he has had some injury problems recently. If healthy he is as dangerous as an alligator in the Everglades. Speaking of dangerous, Maurice Jones-Drew is a beast coming out of the backfield. Don't judge him by his size because if you do he won't just prove you wrong but he'll run you over like a train. Like many other teams in the NFL, the Jaguars lack a solid defense. They don't even have a foundation for their defense. With guys like Peyton Manning, Chris Johnson, and Andre Johnson in your division this is a MAJOR problem. Until the day that Jacksonville gets something that they can call a defense, these guys sill have to wait for a AFC South champions t-shirt. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
Tennessee- After picking up rookie QB Jake Locker in the 2011 draft the Titans may return to the top in 2011. Chris Johnson is like a super hero at running back. I'm glad its not my job to tackle that guy. Defenders look like Rocky trying to catch the chicken when they try to tackle Johnson. If Locker is as good as experts say then Tennessee will be frightening on offense (haven't heard that in a long time). The defense is in decent shape but could use a few new faces. With Vince Young and Jeff Fisher gone it should be interesting to see how things unfold in Nashville. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
LOCKOUT OVER! -July 25, 2011
Football is back ladies and gentlemen! It was a long 5 months but the boys in the suits got it done and that's all that matters. Training camps, free agency, and re-signings will all take place this week. It will be an absolute mess but should be interesting to see what happens. The Pats open camp on Thursday so the Wicked Pissah Crew will hit the streets of Gillette Stadium to see whats going on in the land of greatness. Welcome back football, we missed ya!
2011 NFL Preview: AFC West -July 24, 2011
San Diego- With a very solid offensive attack this team could win this division. Their shaky ground game and poor defense killed them in 2010 and they hope it won't in 2011 either. If they don't stop the bleeding in these areas then they better be prepared to go down with the ship. Philip Rivers is always at the top of the stat sheets but there is just something about him that I do not like at all. He can't win a big game and the team always folds under pressure like a beach chair. With an already weak receiving group they will be even worse without Vincent Jackson if he decides to leave town like a guy after a one-night-stand. This division is weak though so the Chargers have a great shot at reaching the playoffs this season. STRENGTH-GRADE: B-
Kansas City- The loss of offensive genius Charlie Weiss may hurt the Chiefs a boatload this season. His creative play calling led KC to a West championship last year and his absence will be felt in 2011. Matt Cassel is a great young stud but I don't know how he'll do without the training wheels. In 2009 he was awful without Weiss. So maybe Cassel isn't all that good. In New England he had Moss and Welker to throw to and in 2010 he had a great offensive coach helping him out along the way. But either way, running back Jamaal Charles will dominate defenses like a fat guy at a buffet. This guy will slice n' dice you like a Japanese chef at one of those restaurants. Defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel will keep this D in top notch shape so expect a tough defense down at Arrowhead this year. STRENGTH-GRADE: B-
Oakland- Some improvements have been made in the miserable place they call Oakland but it will not be enough. They found a running game late last season but the defense and quarterback situations are still staring them in the face. Former 3-time champion Richard Seymour is the leader of this defense so he'll have to show the boys how its done. Maybe a team will actually be frightened to come into the "black hole" this season. STRENGTH-GRADE: C-
Denver- O boy... can't wait to talk about the "Tim Tebow situation". I'm sick and tired of hearing about Tebow starting at QB. The guy flat out blows. Trash for an arm and terrible in the pocket. All he can do is run so why don't they just put him at running back or even receiver? Kyle Orton isn't much better and Brady Quinn is miserable. So bottom line is...they've got no quarterback. Their defense is not too shabby but it won't be able to stop the top weapons in this division such as Jamaal Charles and Phillip Rivers. Give Denver some time to develop a team, after all it is hard to breath up there. STRENGTH-GRADE: D (as in Denver)
Kansas City- The loss of offensive genius Charlie Weiss may hurt the Chiefs a boatload this season. His creative play calling led KC to a West championship last year and his absence will be felt in 2011. Matt Cassel is a great young stud but I don't know how he'll do without the training wheels. In 2009 he was awful without Weiss. So maybe Cassel isn't all that good. In New England he had Moss and Welker to throw to and in 2010 he had a great offensive coach helping him out along the way. But either way, running back Jamaal Charles will dominate defenses like a fat guy at a buffet. This guy will slice n' dice you like a Japanese chef at one of those restaurants. Defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel will keep this D in top notch shape so expect a tough defense down at Arrowhead this year. STRENGTH-GRADE: B-
Oakland- Some improvements have been made in the miserable place they call Oakland but it will not be enough. They found a running game late last season but the defense and quarterback situations are still staring them in the face. Former 3-time champion Richard Seymour is the leader of this defense so he'll have to show the boys how its done. Maybe a team will actually be frightened to come into the "black hole" this season. STRENGTH-GRADE: C-
Denver- O boy... can't wait to talk about the "Tim Tebow situation". I'm sick and tired of hearing about Tebow starting at QB. The guy flat out blows. Trash for an arm and terrible in the pocket. All he can do is run so why don't they just put him at running back or even receiver? Kyle Orton isn't much better and Brady Quinn is miserable. So bottom line is...they've got no quarterback. Their defense is not too shabby but it won't be able to stop the top weapons in this division such as Jamaal Charles and Phillip Rivers. Give Denver some time to develop a team, after all it is hard to breath up there. STRENGTH-GRADE: D (as in Denver)
2011 NFL Preview: AFC North -July 22, 2011
Pittsburgh- One of the most dominant teams of the decade might be in trouble for the 2011 season. The Ravens will be out to get them and honestly Baltimore should have won that game last January to advance to the AFC Championship. But you must put into account that when Roethlisberger and Polamalu are both healthy or available this team is flat out terrifying. The Steelers have been to 3 Super Bowls in 6 years since 2005 and thats all that matters. Mike Tomlin is one of my favorite coaches in the league so he'll be able to put these guys back on track. Off-season issues have occurred with Rashard Mendenhall and James Harrison so we'll just have to sit back and see what Tomlin and the GM of Pittsburgh do with that situation. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+/A-
Baltimore- The Ravens are an amazing team but there are definitely some cracks in their armor. First off, Joe Flacco is not a good quarterback at all. Second, the offense should not have to be dependent on Ray Rice so often. They'll have to throw the ball more effectively in 2011 if they want to surpass the Steelers in the standings. On the defensive side of the ball they have the two best defenders of the decade with Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. The only problem there is that these guys are getting old and fragile. But if they stay healthy their D will be overwhelming for another season. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
Browns- There is certainly some hope in Cleveland with the beast himself, Peyton Hillis, at running back. Colt McCoy is a decent NFL quarterback and the offense showed some improvement last year. Cleveland is a building squad and they are getting better as the years pass. Maybe they could be a wild card team this season if something crazy happens. After all they did give the best team in the league last season an ol' butt-whoopin'. Cleveland is still Believe-land but this is the same case with Detroit and the fans might be able to watch some good football. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
Bengals- What a mess...Carson Palmer threatening the team with retirement and T.O. is most likely not coming back. Not to mention Ochocinco wants out of Cincy too. STRENGTH-GRADE: F
Baltimore- The Ravens are an amazing team but there are definitely some cracks in their armor. First off, Joe Flacco is not a good quarterback at all. Second, the offense should not have to be dependent on Ray Rice so often. They'll have to throw the ball more effectively in 2011 if they want to surpass the Steelers in the standings. On the defensive side of the ball they have the two best defenders of the decade with Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. The only problem there is that these guys are getting old and fragile. But if they stay healthy their D will be overwhelming for another season. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
Browns- There is certainly some hope in Cleveland with the beast himself, Peyton Hillis, at running back. Colt McCoy is a decent NFL quarterback and the offense showed some improvement last year. Cleveland is a building squad and they are getting better as the years pass. Maybe they could be a wild card team this season if something crazy happens. After all they did give the best team in the league last season an ol' butt-whoopin'. Cleveland is still Believe-land but this is the same case with Detroit and the fans might be able to watch some good football. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
Bengals- What a mess...Carson Palmer threatening the team with retirement and T.O. is most likely not coming back. Not to mention Ochocinco wants out of Cincy too. STRENGTH-GRADE: F
2011 NFL Preview: NFC SOUTH -July 21, 2011
Atlanta- This team has already displayed their talent on offense and that translated into a 14-2 record in 2010. If Atlanta can create a defense to take pressure off of their offense then this team will go DEEP in the playoffs. Matt Ryan (Matty Ice) is and will be the quarterback for these guys for a very long time. He is a winner and that's all that matters. Sure the Falcons haven't won a playoff game in an eternity but that is all in the past. The already explosiveness offense will get even better with the addition of young stud receiver Julio Jones. If this guy is the real deal and not a bust then the Falcons will be a SCARY team to face come football season. This division is my pick for the toughest and closest division in the league. It should be amazing to watch. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
New Orleans- With Drew Brees under center the Saints will always be a great team. The Super Bowl champions of 2009 will be in the thick of things again this season. The Saints are just such a solid team in every aspect of the game. Their offense gets it done, their defense gets turnovers, and head coach Sean Peyton is one of the best in the NFL. When teams come into the Superdome they don't usually come out victorious and this is an intimidating advantage for Nola. The Saints should be in great shape come September if all goes well from here on. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
Tampa Bay- The Bucs just barely missed the playoffs last season and young gun Josh Freeman is an absolute beast in the pocket...and outside of it. With a similar quarterbacking style to Michael Vick this kid has a bright future. The only difference between Vick and Freeman is that I believe Freeman is smarter and that will keep him on the field rather than in the medical room like Vick. Do not be surprised at all if the Bucs storm through this division and win it, its completely possible. They have great defensive guys like Gerald McCoy and on offense they've got the big three of Freeman, Blount, and Mike Williams. This team can go far if they play as a team and figure out who they are early on. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
Carolina- Uhhh all I can say is that I don't think Cam Newton is the answer. Its pretty safe to guarantee that the Panthers will not win the NFC South this season. Just a complete mess down in Carolina. STRENGTH-GRADE: F-
New Orleans- With Drew Brees under center the Saints will always be a great team. The Super Bowl champions of 2009 will be in the thick of things again this season. The Saints are just such a solid team in every aspect of the game. Their offense gets it done, their defense gets turnovers, and head coach Sean Peyton is one of the best in the NFL. When teams come into the Superdome they don't usually come out victorious and this is an intimidating advantage for Nola. The Saints should be in great shape come September if all goes well from here on. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
Tampa Bay- The Bucs just barely missed the playoffs last season and young gun Josh Freeman is an absolute beast in the pocket...and outside of it. With a similar quarterbacking style to Michael Vick this kid has a bright future. The only difference between Vick and Freeman is that I believe Freeman is smarter and that will keep him on the field rather than in the medical room like Vick. Do not be surprised at all if the Bucs storm through this division and win it, its completely possible. They have great defensive guys like Gerald McCoy and on offense they've got the big three of Freeman, Blount, and Mike Williams. This team can go far if they play as a team and figure out who they are early on. STRENGTH-GRADE: B+
Carolina- Uhhh all I can say is that I don't think Cam Newton is the answer. Its pretty safe to guarantee that the Panthers will not win the NFC South this season. Just a complete mess down in Carolina. STRENGTH-GRADE: F-
2011 NFL Preview: NFC EAST -July, 20, 2011
Philadelphia- A very strong team coming into the 2011 season. They are the most athletic, fast, futuristic team in the league with the deadly tandem of Michael Vick and Desean Jackson that can shred a defense to pieces. If these guys can stay healthy they will take the NFC East with ease and potentially cruise to the Super Bowl in Indianapolis. More firepower could be on the way as well because the team will be shopping quarterback Kevin Kolb once the lockout ends. A desperate team might give up some heavy artillery for this guy so Philly is in a great position. STRENGTH-GRADE: A-
Dallas- An absolute mess last season will be looming over the billion dollar stadium this season. That's right the pressure is on for Tony Romo and the rest of Big-D. The Cowboys could be a wild card team at best I believe but they just don't have the toughness or leadership to be a solid playoff team. STRENGTH-GRADE: C-
New York(Giants)- One of the best teams in the league at getting to the quarterback. Quarterbacks have nightmares when they are about to face these guys. The pass rush is led by Super Bowl 42 hero Justin Tuck. But the biggest issue in New York is whether or not Eli Manning will step up. I have no idea how this guy has a Super Bowl ring. To be honest he has no business wearing that thing because it wasn't him that got that team there. That discussion is for another time however. This years Giants will make the playoffs according to my predictions so far but they will just barely make it. STRENGTH-GRADE: B-
Washington-A flat out horrible team. Donovan McNabb gets pulled in the 4th quarter, the defense is horrid, their running backs are long in the tooth, and they don't know what to do at the QB position. These boys need help in many areas but they won't receive enough aid to make them a playoff team this year. Sorry President Obama...you still got the Bears...right? STRENGTH-GRADE: F
Dallas- An absolute mess last season will be looming over the billion dollar stadium this season. That's right the pressure is on for Tony Romo and the rest of Big-D. The Cowboys could be a wild card team at best I believe but they just don't have the toughness or leadership to be a solid playoff team. STRENGTH-GRADE: C-
New York(Giants)- One of the best teams in the league at getting to the quarterback. Quarterbacks have nightmares when they are about to face these guys. The pass rush is led by Super Bowl 42 hero Justin Tuck. But the biggest issue in New York is whether or not Eli Manning will step up. I have no idea how this guy has a Super Bowl ring. To be honest he has no business wearing that thing because it wasn't him that got that team there. That discussion is for another time however. This years Giants will make the playoffs according to my predictions so far but they will just barely make it. STRENGTH-GRADE: B-
Washington-A flat out horrible team. Donovan McNabb gets pulled in the 4th quarter, the defense is horrid, their running backs are long in the tooth, and they don't know what to do at the QB position. These boys need help in many areas but they won't receive enough aid to make them a playoff team this year. Sorry President Obama...you still got the Bears...right? STRENGTH-GRADE: F
2011 NFL Preview: NFC WEST -July 18, 2011
St. Louis- A surprise division front runner in 2010 will be in the hunt once again in 2011 with the arm of Sam Bradford carrying them. This division however is an absolute joke, I mean if the best team in the division is 7-9 then thats a slap in the face to all the other teams who had winning records and got snubbed from the playoffs. Running back Steven Jackson is one of the league's best backs but his injury problems plague the team from reaching their potential. The Rams defense is solid but could be much better and the same story goes for their offense. Bradford doesn't have many weapons to help himself out on offense but he will just have to step his game up. STRENGTH-GRADE: C+
Seattle- The Seahawks stole the division away from the Rams in 2010 and they'll have to watch themselves this season. Talks have emerged about Seattle bringing in a new quarterback but I'll believe it when I see it, it seems they have this discussion every year. There is really not much to say about the Seahawks. They are not a strong team and they don't have any firepower. You might not have to worry about the "12th man" for long because this team will have trouble putting fans in the stands if they don't get their act straight. STRENGTH-GRADE: D
Arizona- Potentially the worst team in the NFL. Larry Fitzgerald may be the league's best wide receiver but he can't catch the ball if he doesn't have someone decent throwing to him. Big problems brewing in the desert. STRENGTH-GRADE: F
San Francisco- My favorite to win the NFC West. All this team has to do is WAKE UP! The talent is all there right in front of them. The problem must have been the coaching and that explains why Mike Singletary got the boot last season. Jim Harbaugh will be a great new coach for this squad. Believe it or not, this team has Super Bowl potential. The defense is great under the wings of "super-hero esque" Patrick Willis. I love this guy as a linebacker, I would consider taking him over Ray Lewis. Yes he's that good but he just hasn't shown the leadership and smartness of Lewis...yet. If the Niners get their quarterback situation straightened out by Week 1 then the rest of the NFC better watch out. STRENGTH-GRADE: B
Seattle- The Seahawks stole the division away from the Rams in 2010 and they'll have to watch themselves this season. Talks have emerged about Seattle bringing in a new quarterback but I'll believe it when I see it, it seems they have this discussion every year. There is really not much to say about the Seahawks. They are not a strong team and they don't have any firepower. You might not have to worry about the "12th man" for long because this team will have trouble putting fans in the stands if they don't get their act straight. STRENGTH-GRADE: D
Arizona- Potentially the worst team in the NFL. Larry Fitzgerald may be the league's best wide receiver but he can't catch the ball if he doesn't have someone decent throwing to him. Big problems brewing in the desert. STRENGTH-GRADE: F
San Francisco- My favorite to win the NFC West. All this team has to do is WAKE UP! The talent is all there right in front of them. The problem must have been the coaching and that explains why Mike Singletary got the boot last season. Jim Harbaugh will be a great new coach for this squad. Believe it or not, this team has Super Bowl potential. The defense is great under the wings of "super-hero esque" Patrick Willis. I love this guy as a linebacker, I would consider taking him over Ray Lewis. Yes he's that good but he just hasn't shown the leadership and smartness of Lewis...yet. If the Niners get their quarterback situation straightened out by Week 1 then the rest of the NFC better watch out. STRENGTH-GRADE: B
2011 NFL Preview: NFC NORTH -July 17, 2011
Green Bay- The obvious favorites in this division as they defend their Super Bowl XLV title. With the young and talented team that Green Bay features they could be contenders for years to come and could be the NFL's next dynasty. Their defense smothers whoever they are up against whether its Clay Mathews knocking out the quarterback, B.J. Raji and A.J. Hawk stuffing the run, or Nick Collins and Charles Woodson snatching the ball away. The offense on the other hand is also a talented one. Aaron Rodgers is an outstanding young quarterback with plenty of explosiveness surrounding him. Gregg Jennings is one of the leagues most underrated wide receivers but boy can he tear apart a defense like a sheet of paper. In 2010 they were without running back Ryan Grant and tight end Jermichael Finley. So with these guys back in the lineup it will make the defending champions that much stronger on Sundays...that's just scary. STRENGTH-GRADE: A-
Chicago- The 2010 NFC North champions could be in trouble for the upcoming season. Jay Cutler had a worse ending last season than the way Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull ended. He claimed he was too injured to finish the NFC Championship game. The poor Chicago fans are probably already sick of him, maybe they'll never get a promising quarterback. This issue along with no receiving game and an ancient defense will be big problems for Da Bears. The only bright spot in Chi-town is Julius Peppers and Matt Forte so the Bears better go to free agency for help if they want to survive this division. STRENGTH-GRADE: C+
Minnesota- After one of the most miserable seasons by an NFL team in my recent memory, the Vikings will have to dig themselves out of a mess in Minny. The Brett Favre sob story is over (hopefully), the Metrodump roof is fixed, and one of the worst coaches in the league Brad Childress is gone for good. The QB position is up for the taking and it should be interesting to see who takes it. Adrian Peterson will have to step up as a leader and make this his team if he wants to make it to the promise land. The Vikes defense should be solid once again with Jared Allen coming off the defensive line at 100 mph. I don't see Minnesota having a good year but you never know. STRENGTH-GRADE: D
Detroit- It has been absolute hell for this team for the past decade but a light at the end of the tunnel may have appeared. The defensive line is absolutely stacked, maybe even the best in the league. In this division its all about defense and that's what the Lions have built their new foundation off of. If Mathew Stafford can stay healthy then this team has a shot to be a wild card team in the Playoffs. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson is dripping with talent but all he needs is someone decent to throw him the ball. Jahvid Best had a tremendous rookie season and has to be electrifying once again for the desperate Lions. Detroit fans, you have been patient for too long but the wait might be over. You guys might actually be able to watch meaningful football now. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
Chicago- The 2010 NFC North champions could be in trouble for the upcoming season. Jay Cutler had a worse ending last season than the way Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull ended. He claimed he was too injured to finish the NFC Championship game. The poor Chicago fans are probably already sick of him, maybe they'll never get a promising quarterback. This issue along with no receiving game and an ancient defense will be big problems for Da Bears. The only bright spot in Chi-town is Julius Peppers and Matt Forte so the Bears better go to free agency for help if they want to survive this division. STRENGTH-GRADE: C+
Minnesota- After one of the most miserable seasons by an NFL team in my recent memory, the Vikings will have to dig themselves out of a mess in Minny. The Brett Favre sob story is over (hopefully), the Metrodump roof is fixed, and one of the worst coaches in the league Brad Childress is gone for good. The QB position is up for the taking and it should be interesting to see who takes it. Adrian Peterson will have to step up as a leader and make this his team if he wants to make it to the promise land. The Vikes defense should be solid once again with Jared Allen coming off the defensive line at 100 mph. I don't see Minnesota having a good year but you never know. STRENGTH-GRADE: D
Detroit- It has been absolute hell for this team for the past decade but a light at the end of the tunnel may have appeared. The defensive line is absolutely stacked, maybe even the best in the league. In this division its all about defense and that's what the Lions have built their new foundation off of. If Mathew Stafford can stay healthy then this team has a shot to be a wild card team in the Playoffs. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson is dripping with talent but all he needs is someone decent to throw him the ball. Jahvid Best had a tremendous rookie season and has to be electrifying once again for the desperate Lions. Detroit fans, you have been patient for too long but the wait might be over. You guys might actually be able to watch meaningful football now. STRENGTH-GRADE: C
NFL talks limping to the finish -July 8, 2011
Ever since the lockout started in March it has been hell for football fans. Its like going to the doctor and waiting weeks and weeks for your test results. Its like waiting to see if you were accepted at a college. Its just terrible. For you guys out there who love football as much as me then you know what I'm talking about, for you who don't...well feel free to read anyways. In the past week and a half the NFL and NFLPA have been b-lining towards an agreement and they are very close. Today they hit a few speed bumps in the road to awesomeness but according to sources they will grind on through during the weekend. ESPN reporters have said that an agreement could be reached as early as Tuesday or Wednesday. Boy oh boy would I be pumped if that happens. Training camps are on the horizon (about 2 weeks away) and you can bet the kitchen sink that Wicked Pissah Weekly will be there when/if that occurs. The pressure is rising, the humidity is building, and the heat is piling on into New England so lets hope the deal gets done soon. People are starting to snap over this unsure future of football, even David Ortiz lost his cool tonight. So for goodness sake let this damn deal get done so we can talk some real football and not all this business and economy mambo jambo.
Taking a break for a little while -June 29, 2011
Now that the Bruins have brought the Cup back to Boston it has marked the end of MY sports time (football-basketball-hockey) but it will start once again in July when NFL teams breakout into camp, assuming that a deal is made soon of course. Meetings are going on right now as we speak and I honestly believe that they will agree and football will be well on its way. Since I started this site in March I have obviously not covered football at all but just so you know, the Patriots are like a religion to me. That should speak for itself. You guys may see a few Red Sox posts here and there (after all they are playing amazing) but don't expect frequent baseball posts like the other sports featured. If any major news comes up, like the NFL and NFLPA agreeing, then you can surely bet that I will rush to my computer to add a post on here for you guys to read. But as for now the sports world is quiet and sports maniacs and finally rest a bit for the summer.
NEW Wicked Pissah Hall of Famer: Mark Recchi -June 18, 2011
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Welcome to Boston Lord Stanley! -June 16, 2011
One of the greatest moments in Boston sports history unfolded last night and it was just downright amazing. Its still so hard to believe that the B's finally won the Cup!! This decade (plus one year) has been extraordinary for the city of Boston after winning 7 titles. Now we have gotten at least one championship in every major sport (NBA,NHL,NFL,MLB). Excitement broke out last night in the streets, the bars, homes, and almost anywhere there was a Bruins fan. Game 7 was a landslide victory for the B's as they crushed Vancouver 4-0 and got to hoist the glimmering, ancient, legendary, silver piece of hardware that is known as the Stanley Cup. Captain Zdeno Chara was presented the Cup and it looked like a toothpick in his giant hands. The best part of this Bruins team is that they came together as a team, fought as a team, had each others backs as a team, and won the Cup as a team. They were certainly not pretty or flashy but their toughness lasted til the end and that was the difference. It has been 39 years since Orr's soar but now this generation has its own memories of the Bruins taking the title. The celebration has just begun for the city of Boston and a parade is in store for early Saturday afternoon. Everybody and I mean everybody should head into town and attend this parade and to get a glimpse of Lord Stanley's Cup. The streets will be packed, the air will be filled with black n' yellow confetti, and the Bruins will have their day to celebrate with the fans. Boston fans had to wait a long 3 years for another championship (sarcasm) but it has finally come. Fire up the duckboats! We got a parade coming up! The Cup is back in the Hub of Hockey and it doesn't plan on leaving anytime soon.
2011 Stanley Cup champions: Boston Bruins
Lucky Number 7
Is there anything better in sports than a 7th game for a championship? The Super Bowl is pretty damn close but a seventh game represents a whole series in one night full of blood, sweat, and tears (hopefully by the Canucks). The entire 2011 NHL season falls into one game for the greatest trophy in sports history, the Stanley Cup. There is no reason that the Bruins should not win this game, despite Luongo's success at home. The B's have all the momentum once again and they're not gonna have a repeat of game 5 where they went soft. They know that its game 7 and that this is the last chance. Boston has outplayed Vancouver to this point by a large margin and they deserve the Cup more and they know it. The little engine that could and did, Brad Marchand, is dominating this series. His game has been larger than his nose as he fuels this team to victory. But its all about the man in between the pipes, Double T, Tim Thomas, call him whatever you want but at the end of the day this guy is a lock for the Conn Smythe award (playoff MVP). This game could very well be the best hockey game of the decade or more! So all of you out there get all your friends together and watch this game and go nuts! Game 7 will be better than having ice cream with Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman on the moon! Clear you plans for Wednesday night and getcha popcorn or whatever the hell you like ready because its gonna be epic. The city of Boston hasn't seen a hockey game like this in a very very long time so enjoy it. Will Boston end the 39 year drought or will Vancouver hoist its first ever Cup? The answer is about 24 hours away. Now on to the 3 keys of the game:
-1) Score first and early (shut the crowd up)
-2) Win the physical battle one more time
-3) Don't even think about hoisting the Cup until its in your hands!
PREDICTION: Bruins 2 - Canucks 1
Lets go B's!!!
-1) Score first and early (shut the crowd up)
-2) Win the physical battle one more time
-3) Don't even think about hoisting the Cup until its in your hands!
PREDICTION: Bruins 2 - Canucks 1
Lets go B's!!!
Its guaranteed that the Cup will be hoisted but by which team will have to wait until Wednesday night.
Game 6: Where legends will be born
Monday night will certainly be remembered for years to come in Boston. Either in a positive way or god-forbid a negative way. The Stanley Cup will be present in the Garden on Monday but lets hope that we don't see it. But this game will be the most intense hockey game that I have ever seen in my lifetime, so far. The Bruins know whats at stake, nobody has to tell them what could happen out there. They know that they have to do exactly what they did in games 3 and 4, and that is to go out there and kick their ass until they break. They've got a little something extra to make them angry now and that is that Roberto Luongo criticized Timmy Thomas. Luongblow said on Friday night after the game that he would have made the save on the shot Thomas let in. He pretty much told the media that Thomas is playing the position the wrong way. The worst part of it all is that he tried to take it back on Saturday. This bit of stupid news made its way to the Bruins locker room and they are very aware of Luongo's careless rant. The Bruins deserve the Cup more than the Canucks (and I'm not just saying that because I'm a Bostonian). They have really played harder and better than Vancouver in this series. The Canucks are squeaking out their victories by only one goal in each of their 3 wins while the B's totally dominated Vancouver, like a fat guy dominating a bucket of KFC, in their 2 victories. But looking back on game 5 it is easy to see that Vancouver was in a must win situation. There was no way they could go into Boston down 3-2 after what had already occurred in Beantown. Now it is time for the Bruins to win the must win game. 3 keys to the game:
-1) Bruins have to BEAT down on Vancouver and win the physical battle (just like games 3 and 4)
-2) Take advantage of the damn power plays! (they had a handful last game and they were totally miserable)
-3) Score early and often (put pressure on Luongo, he'll crumble like a Drake's coffee cake)
PREDICTION: Bruins 4 - Canucks 1
Lets go B's!!!
-1) Bruins have to BEAT down on Vancouver and win the physical battle (just like games 3 and 4)
-2) Take advantage of the damn power plays! (they had a handful last game and they were totally miserable)
-3) Score early and often (put pressure on Luongo, he'll crumble like a Drake's coffee cake)
PREDICTION: Bruins 4 - Canucks 1
Lets go B's!!!
Bruins keep on rolling, tie series at 2
The heat of early June stayed in Boston on Wednesday and the Bruins were hotter than a cup of Dunkins' coffee once again. They are officially dedicating their chase for the Cup to their brother, Nathan Horton. Bobby Orr was present before the game waving the black and yellow flag that has Horton's #18 on it. From there on it was another physical game. Every battle for the puck was crucial in this game 4 in Boston. Horton's spot on the 1st line was replaced by Rich Peverley. In the middle of the 1st period Peverley blew by the Vancouver defense and slid the puck through the five hole to put the B's up for good. But the player of the game had to be Timmy "the tank" Thomas. He was spectacular yet again shutting out the Canucks high powered offense and making them look like a bunch of High School kids. By the final buzzer it was 4-0 Bruins and the crowd went nuts as they sent our boys off to Vancouver for game 5. The Bruins proved the haters wrong once again, coming back from a 0-2 hole for the second time these playoffs. All of Boston learned something this week and that is that this team is very special and they could be even more special by this time next week.
Nobody believes more than Boston fans
Canucks wake up a sleeping giant, B's conquer game 3
Last nights' game 3 of the Stanley Cup Finals was damn close to perfect for Boston fans. The Bruins came, they saw, and they most definitely conquered in this critical game 3. The spark that lit the fire under the B's was a tragic play that occurred early in the game. Nathan Horton was skating into the Vancouver zone without the puck and he was blindsided by a cheap shot to the upper body by Aaron Rome. As he was taken off in a stretcher, the Bruins knew that they had to fight back and win it for their brother. From their on the B's unleashed hell on the Canucks. They blasted 4 pucks into the back of the net in the 2nd period and poured on 4 more in the 3rd. The physical play was led by Shawn Thornton and Milan Lucic. Thornton seemed to be in on every big hit and every scrap after the whistle. Lucic on the other hand might have done the best thing of the night. On a play late in the 3rd he slashed Alex Burrows (the biter) and threw a Mike Tyson knuckle sandwich to the back of Burrows head. Burrows got back up and Lucic stuck his fingers in his face, daring him to bite them. After the dust cleared at the Garden the Bruins were victorious by a route of 8-1. The Garden was as loud as its been in a long time and lets all hope that this success continues into game 4.
B's cannot hold off late Canucks surge, lose game 2 in OT
Well things seem pretty grim right now for the Bruins. Down 0-2. The worst part is that both games were very very close. The B's could have even won both of them! But instead they failed late in the game for the 2nd consecutive game. I haven't even mentioned the worst part yet. Alex Burrows, the cannibal, scored 2 goals with one of them being the game winner in OT. I don't care what anyone says, he clearly bit Bergerons finger and should have been suspended for this game. Poor job NHL, poor job. The only bright side to this series right now is that its coming home to Boston. Hockey is probably the easiest sport to come back in a series in (not saying that its easy, just that its the easiest). Plus this Bruins team has already come back from 0-2 once in these playoffs. They came back on the Canadians back in April and took the series in 7 games. So lets hope that its a trend with the Bruins vs teams from Canada.
Game 2 of B's-Canucks will be tense
It seems that every time I wrote a preview to a Celts playoff game they ended up losing that game, but for the Bruins it has seen the opposite effect so lets hope this post will bring the B's some luck. This game will be fast paced, tense, and will see an above normal amount of "chippiness". These three ingredients alone will create an epic game to watch. I see both goalies having great performances once again but nothing like last game's stone-wall fest. Both the Krejci and Bergeron lines will have to improve after last games poor offensive play. You know Bergeron is gonna come out to play after Burrows, who tried to bite Berge's finger off, was not punished at all for his actions. This Bruins team is tougher than a 2 dollar steak so they're gonna be going after the Canucks with big hits. Now onto the three keys of the game:
1)B's can't rely on Timmy to win them they game(they need some offense!)
2)No dumb penalties(Canucks power-play will come around sooner or later)
3)Be more physical than Vancouver(thats the B's best skill and it gives them momentum)
If the Black n' Gold can do at least 2 out of these three then they should be heading back to Boston tied 1-1
PREDICTION: Bruins 3 - Canucks 2
LETS GO BRUINS!!!
1)B's can't rely on Timmy to win them they game(they need some offense!)
2)No dumb penalties(Canucks power-play will come around sooner or later)
3)Be more physical than Vancouver(thats the B's best skill and it gives them momentum)
If the Black n' Gold can do at least 2 out of these three then they should be heading back to Boston tied 1-1
PREDICTION: Bruins 3 - Canucks 2
LETS GO BRUINS!!!
Game 1 of the Cup Finals: A slap to the face
Before we get started I would like to give my thoughts and prayers to all the victims and families that had to go through the horrific Massachusetts tornadoes of June 1, 2011. Now onto the game. An amazing duel between Timmy Thomas and Roberto Luongo, they each had their fair share of amazing saves. Only one goal was scored between both teams and that goal is definitely not Thomas' fault. A terrible no call by the refs caused a 2 on 0 and the Canuckleheads put one in the back of the net to ice it with under 20 seconds to play. For Bruins fans this is the worst kind of game to lose and it probably feels like you got kicked where the sun don't shine. But hey, our B's played a heck of a game. They shutdown the Canucks offense and powerplay. Sure our offense needs a little sharpening but we proved that we will play with Vancouver and we will play them hard all night. It was as close as a game can get so both teams played at an equal level. Another bright point is that these B's have lost 3 out of the 4 game 1's that they've met (Montreal,Tampa Bay, and now Vancouver). Both the Montreal and Tampa series' went 7 games so we'll see what unfolds next. Look for the black n' gold to come out with intensity next game, they're are not happy after losing this one. B-LIEVE.
Stanley Cup Finals, here we come
Who would have thought that one picture perfect, thread the needle pass to Nathan Horton would lead to Boston erupting into an epic frenzy? The Bruins shutdown the Lightning on Friday night as they clawed their way a 1-0 win. The 2011 Eastern Conference champions were crowned and now another series has to be played before any REAL celebration can begin. Conference championship apparel must be bought, tickets must be purchased, fans must go crazy, and both teams must take the next few days to rest and prepare. Canucks vs Bruins for all of Lord Stanley's Cup. It just seems right. Two of the best hockey cities in North America deprived of a Stanley Cup title. The Canucks have never seen a championship while the B's haven't seen the Cup since the days that Bobby Orr was king back in '72. The fans are ready to rock while both sides will have champagne on ice and confetti loaded into cannons. It will be an amazing series of hockey with beautiful goals and mind-blowing hits. Will the favored Vancouver Canucks win their 1st Cup? Or will the Boston Bruins shock the world once again and prove the haters wrong? History. Will. Be. Made.
Game 7 Fever
For the second time in these playoffs the Bruins will be playing their hearts out in a game 7. The last game 7 was against the Habs and that seemed like an eternity ago when Horton blasted one into the back of the net in OT to send the Garden into a frenzy. On Friday night Bostonians will be glued to their TV's hoping desperately that the B's will hoist up the Prince of Wales trophy and head into the Stanley Cup Finals. The Garden will without a doubt be the loudest its been since last years NBA Finals and hopefully that gives our guys the extra, over the top energy to put Tampa Bay away. Here are the 3 keys to game 7:
1) Tim Thomas has to be legendary again(unlike game 6)
2) Penalty Kill must do a better job (im lookin at you Boychuck)
3)Pepper Roloson with shots all game long (the guys a bumb!)
PREDICTION: Bruins 5 - Lightning 3
LETS GO BRUINS!!!
1) Tim Thomas has to be legendary again(unlike game 6)
2) Penalty Kill must do a better job (im lookin at you Boychuck)
3)Pepper Roloson with shots all game long (the guys a bumb!)
PREDICTION: Bruins 5 - Lightning 3
LETS GO BRUINS!!!
The B's gotta play as a TEAM if they want to head to the Finals
Bru Crew 1 win away from the Finals!
One win away from reaching a place where Boston has not seen since 20 years ago. Tim Thomas vs Dwayne Roloson for all the marbles in the Eastern Conference. Roloson did not play in game 5 and that could certainly affect his confidence coming into game 6. Tim Thomas was SPECTACULAR to say the least in game 5. He had one of the best stick saves of all-time in the 3rd period to ice the win for the B's. Hopefully he will keep the momentum going into Tampa. Everywhere you go in the Boston area you see Bruins apparel. People are really representing our boys and its awesome to see all the pride around town. C'mon B's! 1 more win! Do it for the city!
B's blow game 3 and lose a huge opportunity
It was a very frustrating day for Bruins fans after witnessing their boys collapse in game 4 down in Tampa. The B's had a 3-0 lead at the end of the 1st period and were in full command. But after changing goalies in the 2nd the Lightning seemed like a different team. Tampa scored 3 goals in the 2nd to roar back into the game and the series. If they had lost this one then they would be going to Boston down 3-1. With the game tied at 3-3 in the 3rd, Simon Gagne blasted a shot past Tim Thomas to put the Lightning ahead for good. Tampa went on to win 5-3 with the 5th goal being a empty netter. This game was just a terrible performance by the Bruins after the 1st period. They may have survived the end of the world but they could not survive the offensive tidal wave that was the Tampa Bay Lightning. Monday night's game 4 will be a HUGE game in this series. LETS GO B's!
NFL fans may cheer for different things but right now we come together as one
The NFL lockout is still dragging on even after the draft which occurred a couple weeks ago. I find it outrageous that neither side has come to an agreement yet. It is unthinkable to see a year without the NFL, they bring in the most popularity and are the wealthiest league in the country by far. The worst part is that the ones who are really suffering are the fans. Dear NFL and NFLPA, let me tell you something, if it weren't for the fans then you would have NO MONEY at all. So get off your ass and come to an agreement already. You must not realize the money you will lose if there is no season. The NFL yearly revenue is about 8 billion dollars! That is ridiculous cash that could potentially be flushed down the toilet this year. Things may be moving slowly now but I have a feeling that an agreement will come soon enough. In the meantime all we can do is watch and listen.
The Boston Bruins: A New Hope
If I had told you about a month ago that the Celtics would be eliminated in the 2nd round and the Bruins would host the Eastern Conference finals then you probably would have asked me what I was smoking. Well folks its a reality now. The Celtics once again could not finish as they were buried like the ancient city of Pompeii. However some good Celtics news is that Doc Rivers said after the game that he will most likely return next season to coach the Celts. I love Doc and the big 3 and I want to see them together until banner 18 is raised into the rafters. People who say that the Celts are done because of old age are clueless. The only guys who may be done are Shaq and maybe even Jermaine O'Neal because they physically cannot go on. For the big 3 this is not the case(yet). In the offseason the C's will need to pick up a couple of really solid players who are under the age of 35. That discussion is for another time however. This post is about the Bruins shot at Lord Stanley's Cup. The only championship that has not been achieved this decade is possibly on the horizon. The Garden has thrown some great parties this month and Saturday night may be the best one yet. Look for both teams to be rusty due to over a week of rest. The streets will not be flooded with green and white confetti this June but instead there could be black and yellow confetti (does it even exist? ask someone from 1972).
B's-Lightning set to start on Saturday night, C's against the wall
This time of year always makes me crazy due to the two playoffs colliding and this week could be the craziest, especially if the Celts can stay alive tonight. I may have already written them off in the last post but I honestly hope they make me look like an idiot. Last night on ESPN they played the 30 for 30 documentary about the Red Sox comeback from 2004. Is it a sign? Maybe. They have won 3 straight many times including last year in the playoffs against LEBRON but I just don't see them winning in Miami. If they win tonight though, there will be hope in a game 6 in Boston. Good luck boys, you'll need it. The next topic is a brighter one. The Bruins will drop the puck for the Eastern Conference title on Saturday night. Will the speed and talent of the Lighting carry them into the Finals or will the attitude, toughness, and brick wall goalie of the Bruins bring the B's to their first Stanley Cup in decades? It should be a fantastic series and I'm excited. The thing that makes sports so much better than anything else is that you cannot script it. Lets hope the Celts can come roaring back and make a hell of a story.
The Celts will need a miracle to come back from 3-1
Top 10 worst Boston Sports losses
1)Super Bowl XLII Pats-Giants
2)2010 NBA Finals Celtics-Lakers
3)1986 World Series Red Sox-Mets(Buckner)
4)2010 NHL 2nd round Bruins-Flyers(blown 3-0 lead)
5)2006 AFC Championship Game Pats-Colts
6)2011 AFC Divisional Round Pats-Jets
7)2011 NBA 2nd round Celtics-Heat
8)2009 NHL 2nd round Bruins-Hurricanes
9)2003 ALCS Red Sox-Yankees
10)2008 Tom Brady tears ACL after MVP season
2)2010 NBA Finals Celtics-Lakers
3)1986 World Series Red Sox-Mets(Buckner)
4)2010 NHL 2nd round Bruins-Flyers(blown 3-0 lead)
5)2006 AFC Championship Game Pats-Colts
6)2011 AFC Divisional Round Pats-Jets
7)2011 NBA 2nd round Celtics-Heat
8)2009 NHL 2nd round Bruins-Hurricanes
9)2003 ALCS Red Sox-Yankees
10)2008 Tom Brady tears ACL after MVP season
C's blow a huge opportunity, face elimination
Lets face it, as much as we hate Lebron James you have to admit he played one hell of a game. Especially at the end. This was a game in which the Celts almost always win but tonight they just didn't have it in them. It hurts and I mean really hurts to think about the chances they had. A blown wide open layup by Rajon Rondo, a few missed threes by Ray, a chance to win with 19 seconds left, KG's shot while being covered by a much shorter Wade. They really did deserve this game more than the Heat and now they will head back to Miami with a 3-1 hole to dig out of. Impossible? Absolutely not. What do I think their chances are? Well lets just say "Go Bruins". I love you Celtics but I just can't see it happening, and I'm one of the most optimistic fans there is. Don't close the door on the Celts yet but it is a very grim sight. You know that feeling that you get when one of your teams is eliminated? Well I have entered that depression now and there is no cure. Miracles can happen people but don't bet the house on it.
KG was not the same as he was in game 3 and that was a big difference
Celts rock the garden and take game 3
From when "In the air tonight" by Phil Collins came on the speakers at TD Garden to when Gino Time popped on the jumbotron after the game, the crowd was electrifying all night long. Lebron said it would be a hostile environment and it was basketball hell for the Miami Heat. The game started out neck and neck with the Celts doing much of the leading with their quick short spurts of scoring. But then the refs made a few horrific calls in favor of Miami and the Heat ran with until halftime. The C's came back in the second half and took over. They bombed the Heat from 3 point land, dominated the paint with KG, and played shutdown D on Lebron and D-Wade. Wade became Boston's most wanted when he brought Rajon Rondo to the floor causing Rondo's arm to dislocate. Rondo left the floor and headed to the locker room. From the balcony I was thinking he would be all done for the series but a quarter later he came back down the tunnel. The crowd went into a frenzy when the one-armed warrior took the floor again. He literally played, and played well, with one arm. The Garden was too much for the Heat as the Celts cruised to a 97-81 victory in a must win situation. The Heat now lead the series 2-1 and game 4 will be HUGE and interesting on Monday night in Boston.
C's in hole but they have the tools to dig themselves out
When the C's left American Airlines Arena on Tuesday night they knew that they had let one slip. And now because of their sloppy 4th quarter they are headed back to Boston down 2-0 to the Miami Heat. Yes it appears grim but 2-0 is not 3-0, obviously. Teams have actually come back from being down 2-0, like all the time in fact! Game 2 was much better than 1 however but unfortunately it had the same result...A LOSS. You can call me crazy, optimistic, dumb, too much of a fan(whatever that means) but I am not writing this team off yet. Here are my reasons:
1)Next 2 games are in Boston and I originally said they would win every game at home (C's are still undefeated against Heat at the Garden)
2)Shaquille O'Neal will be back on Saturday night for game 3 (pretty damn sure)
3)This team knows where they stand and they won't collapse like a young team would
4)Rondo will be Rondo (He is PISSED)
So there it is, my 4 reasons not to worry just yet. Think about it this way, they just need to win 1 road game to win this series because I honestly do not expect them to lose at home. So they can get that road game later on in the series if it goes that long. If it wasn't for turnovers then our boys in green would be headed back to Boston tied 1-1. They limit the turnovers and they will not lose to this Heat team, simple as that. One more thing, I will be among the Garden's crowd on Saturday night so lets be LOUD and CRAZY to help our guys get the win. Its all about game 3.
1)Next 2 games are in Boston and I originally said they would win every game at home (C's are still undefeated against Heat at the Garden)
2)Shaquille O'Neal will be back on Saturday night for game 3 (pretty damn sure)
3)This team knows where they stand and they won't collapse like a young team would
4)Rondo will be Rondo (He is PISSED)
So there it is, my 4 reasons not to worry just yet. Think about it this way, they just need to win 1 road game to win this series because I honestly do not expect them to lose at home. So they can get that road game later on in the series if it goes that long. If it wasn't for turnovers then our boys in green would be headed back to Boston tied 1-1. They limit the turnovers and they will not lose to this Heat team, simple as that. One more thing, I will be among the Garden's crowd on Saturday night so lets be LOUD and CRAZY to help our guys get the win. Its all about game 3.
Tuesday night will be different because it has to be
The Celtics will not let us and themselves down in back to back games. They just won't let it happen, it simply cannot happen. With a pissed off Paul Pierce on our side we have a team about to explode (in a good way) like a volcano all over the Heat and their bandwagon fans. The rustiness on offense must have come from the week off they were rewarded after sweeping the Knicks. In game 1 lets face it the Celts beat themselves, the Heat played very well, but we just shot ourselves in the foot to many times (once again the refs did not help at all). As for game 2, you heard it here first! Paul Pierce WILL have a phenomenal game along with Rondo and KG. The "core" of this team won't take any crap from anyone, including the refs, as they grind their way to a game 2 victory over the soft Heat team. The Heat and the refs made a humongous mistake when they pissed off the Celtics, they woke up a sleeping giant. Another scrap of good news is that Shaquille O'Neal will play in either game 2 or 3 according to Doc. So with more firepower on the way for the C's I am NOT worried at all. Lets go C's!
One word: FOCUSED
Heat strike first, with help from refs
As the clock struck 3:30 eastern time on Sunday May 1st, 2010 all of Celtics nation turned their attention to game 1 of the Celtics and Heat. All of these fans were ready to watch these two TEAMS play, but instead they were about to witness three teams play and that includes the referees of this game. I'm not blaming this game on the refs at all because the C's definitely didn't play well enough to win, but the refs had a large influence on the game. First off, Paul Pierce was ejected on a bogus technical foul after a play where Dwayne Wade deserved a flagrant foul. Earlier on there should have been another flagrant foul on James Jones when he wrapped his arms around Pierce's neck. Those two situations alone could have given Boston 8 more points, they lost by 9. Not to mention that the refs protect Lebron and D-Wade like the Royal guards of England protect the Queen (you can't even breath on these guys!). But game 2 will need to be different. That includes better play by the Celts, they must be the first to strike instead of having to play catch up. Hopefully there will be different refs for next game but either way if the Celts win game 2 they will be in great position. I don't see Boston losing at all back in Beantown so if they can split in Miami then they will gather the home court advantage over the Heat. Lets go Celts!!! Beat the Heat!
NBA PLAYOFFS: 2nd round predictions
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Chicago Bulls-Atlanta Hawks: Bulls in 5
Miami Heat-Boston Celtics: Celtics in 6
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Los Angeles Lakers-Dallas Mavericks: Lakers in 7
Oklahoma City Thunder-Memphis Grizzlies: Grizzlies in 6
Chicago Bulls-Atlanta Hawks: Bulls in 5
Miami Heat-Boston Celtics: Celtics in 6
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Los Angeles Lakers-Dallas Mavericks: Lakers in 7
Oklahoma City Thunder-Memphis Grizzlies: Grizzlies in 6
Celts-Heat series kicks off tomorrow @ 3:30!
War officially declared between Celtics and Heat
The Celts will be taking their talents to South Beach on Sunday for this 2nd round matchup with the Heat which promises to be great. After tearing through the Knicks the C's will hope to keep the saw spinning hard when they meet up with Miami. Shaq is still questionable(what else is new) but if Jermaine O'Neal continues to play like he has then they won't need Shaq's help. JO has been a force on both ends of the court. The most impressive thing that he brings to the table is his ability to block shots, its just amazing to watch. Since the Heat struggle very much at center this should be an advantage in favor of Boston. If the Celtics can dominate in the paint and make their outside shots like they did in NY then they should have no problem with these overrated South Beach bums. Here is a look at who has the advantages at each position:
Point Guard: Boston
Shooting Guard: Miami
Small Forward: Miami
Power Forward: Boston
Center: Boston
Bench: Boston
Coaching: Boston
And there you have it, the C's have advantages in almost every position and with that being said they will take care of business. More to come on this series. Lets go Celts!!!
Point Guard: Boston
Shooting Guard: Miami
Small Forward: Miami
Power Forward: Boston
Center: Boston
Bench: Boston
Coaching: Boston
And there you have it, the C's have advantages in almost every position and with that being said they will take care of business. More to come on this series. Lets go Celts!!!
Win or go home time for B's
Tonight will be the 4th consecutive season that the Bruins have played in a game 7 in the playoffs. Their record in these game 7's, 0-3. That's right the B's have had their past 3 seasons come to an end in game 7's. But the Bruins are different this year, they are tougher and more experienced. This team has worked its tail off to earn the number 3 seed and they won't let this chance at a Stanley Cup slip - again. Plus if the Bruins win tonight their next round opponent will be who other than the Philadelphia Flyers and you've gotta know that the B's want a shot at returning the favor to Philly after last year's debacle. Now on to tonight's showdown with Montreal. Tim Thomas is going to have a stellar game once again but he can only take them so far. Someone else HAS to step up on offense especially on the power play. The B's must have one of the worst power plays of all time, they wouldn't be able to score on a JV hockey team! Look for Brad Marchand, Nathan Horton, or even Milan Lucic(who has been offensively absent so far) to step up and take control of this game. I pick the B's to win tonight in front of their home crowd 4-2 over the Habs as they move onto the 2nd round. Lets go B's!!!
Celtics sweep Knicks and move on to 2nd round
When the Knicks entered this series against the C's I don't think they knew what was about to unfold. Actually I don't think anyone expected this series to be like this. The first two games were true battles but when the Celtics arrived in New York for games 3 and 4 they tore through Madison Square like a tornado. They absolutely trashed, destroyed, clobbered, smashed, creamed Spike Lee's beloved Knicks. Game 4 was similar to game 3 but the Knicks made it interesting with about 5 or so minutes left. Rondo and KG would not let this one slip however and they finished off the Knicks season by winning 101-89. After the game New York coach, Mike D'Antoni, said that he "would like to see Rondo play in Minnesota and see how he does". Well Mr. D'Antoni I would like to see you COACH in Minnesota and see how you do. But as for the Celtics, they'll be moving on to the Eastern Conference semi-finals and play the winner of the Sixers/Heat series(3-1 Miami).
C's come into MSG and take over, lead series 3-0
The Celts may have won the first 2 games but they did not show the true dominance of a champion. But on Friday night the C's came in and ran the Knicks out of their own building. The beating was led by Ray Allen's eight three pointers, Rajon Rondo's triple double, and Pierce's 38 points. Boston just shot the lights out with a 50.6% FG percentage for the game! Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony were shutdown all night by the Boston defense which was led by KG and JO. The final score of this route was 113-96 in the favor of the Celts. With the win the C's take a commanding 3-0 series lead and show all signs of a sweep on Sunday. I believe that this game was the back breaker, nail in the coffin, win that the Celts needed to show who is boss in the Eastern Conference. The Celtics are on the right path to banner 18 after they just dropped a Nuclear bomb on the Knicks. If this was the video game Mortal Kombat then the screen would be flashing with the words "finish him". The Celtics will look to "finish" the Knicks off on Easter Sunday and will most likely go on to play the Miami Heat. Excited just thinking about it! Go Celts!!!
Celts take game 2 in dramatic fashion
This series has been worth the wait so far and it seems that the intensity gets rises and rises as each game occurs. Chauncey Billups was ruled out for this game and that opened the flood gate for a man named Rondo. Rondo slashed through the New York defense and put up 30 points that sank the Knicks' hope of winning game 2. But Carmelo Anthony put on a show of his own scoring 42 points and reeling in 17 rebounds, unfortunately this is a team game and he can only carry his team so far by himself. Another huge blow to the Knicks was the loss of Amare Stoudemire who left the game in the second half. The game was close from start to finish but the C's kept themselves ahead for the majority of it. Down by 1 in the 4th with 19 seconds left, Kevin Garnett was given the ball and he used his size advantage to use a hook shot to put his team ahead 94-93. The Knicks had their chance to win the game but brick wall defense by Garnett sealed the win for Boston. Somewhere Celtics fans can hear legendary announcer, Johnny Most, screaming "Garnett steals the ball!!". The Celts won game 2 by a score of 96-93 and head to New York for game 3 with a 2-0 lead. Lets Go Celts!
Ray Allen, the natural, nails game winning 3 against Knicks in game 1
Due to April vacation I am currently in the Caribbean and do not have the access I would normally have at home. But of course I found a place to watch the game at! The first half of game 1 started out poorly. The Celts went into the locker room down 51-39. It wasn't looking good for the boys in green. But I had a feeling that our boys would roar back, and they did. Whatever Doc said in the locker room must have lit a fire under the guys because the second half was entirely different. They were more aggressive and they crashed the boards just like the defending Eastern champions should. Rondo was spectacular on the boards snagging 9 HUGE rebounds. The Celtics also took in 15 offensive rebounds! That is the stat the stands out to me the most. But the player who stepped up the most was Jermaine O'Neal. Nobody really expected him to do anything but he shut up everyone while he dropped 12 points and blocked 4 shots in this epic game. The turning point in the game was when New York had the ball with a 2 point lead and about 35 seconds on the clock. They had a chance to seal the game but Carmelo Anthony pushed off of Pierce causing an offensive foul and turning the ball over to Boston. Seconds later the ball was in-bounded to Pierce and then dished out to Allen. Everyone in the world knew he was taking the shot right then and there. It seemed as if it was in slow-motion. Celtics fans around me at the bar had wide eyes and were silent. The ball went left his hands and.....he got it! Everyone in the Garden and at the bar erupted into a frenzy. The C's were up by 2 now (87-85). Carmelo had another shot though with 2 seconds left but he air-mailed it and the Celts celebrated a nail-biting game 1 victory. What a way to start the playoffs. All of Celtics' nation can catch their breath now but I don't think we can take another game like that or else we aren't going to live much longer. Game 2 on Tuesday night. Lets go Celts!!!
NBA PLAYOFFS: 1st round predictions
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Chicago Bulls-Indiana Pacers: Bulls in 6
Miami Heat-Philly 76ers: Heat in 5
Boston Celtics-New York Knicks: Celtics in 5
Olrando Magic-Atlanta Hawks: Magic in 4
WESTERN CONFERENCE
San Antonio Spurs-Memphis Grizzlies: Spurs in 4
Los Angeles Lakers-New Orleans Hornets: Lakers in 6
Dallas Mavericks-Portland Trailblazers: Trailblazers in 7
Oklahoma City Thunder-Denver Nuggets: Thunder in 7
Chicago Bulls-Indiana Pacers: Bulls in 6
Miami Heat-Philly 76ers: Heat in 5
Boston Celtics-New York Knicks: Celtics in 5
Olrando Magic-Atlanta Hawks: Magic in 4
WESTERN CONFERENCE
San Antonio Spurs-Memphis Grizzlies: Spurs in 4
Los Angeles Lakers-New Orleans Hornets: Lakers in 6
Dallas Mavericks-Portland Trailblazers: Trailblazers in 7
Oklahoma City Thunder-Denver Nuggets: Thunder in 7
PLAYOFF CENTRAL: Celts will face Knicks in 1st round of Playoffs
UNBELIEVABLE. That is just one word to describe how this series will be.
Yet another chapter of the New York-Boston rivalry, and once again in
the playoffs. New York has the most recent victory in this battle of the
cities with the NFL Playoff victory when the Jets defeated the Pats
(that one was harder to swallow than Vicks NyQuil). But its time for
Boston to return the favor and beat the crap out of this scrappy Knicks
team. TD Garden will be roaring for this series and you can bet the
house that Madison Square Garden will be rockin' as well. The Knicks are
a very good team but they have some very big holes on defense. Carmelo
Anthony is arguably the best scorer in the NBA but his poor defensive
skills cancel out all of his offensive greatness. So I would give Paul
Pierce the edge because he can play shutdown defense and he has a MUCH
bigger heart than Melo. The position battle that will decide the series
is between KG and Amare Stoudemire. Amare is one of the most athletic
big men in the league and his quickness could be trouble for Garnett.
But KG's intensity and mid-range shot will make this one hell of a
matchup to watch. The C's will finish up the regular season on Wednesday
night, ironically, against the New York Knicks. The NBA should just
make this game 1 of the series. I mean it seems kinda odd that these two
teams will play each other in a meaningless game, with their starters
resting most likely, just days before the actual series begins. Much
more on this series coming soon!
Lebron torches Celtics with 27 points
It was just an awful day for Celtic Nation. After an 11-2 start I thought it was gonna be C's all day down in South Beach. But unfortunately Lebron played like it was game 7. The biggest concern after this game was the rebounding category which the Celts got crushed in 46-26 by Miami. While watching this nightmare of a game unfold I decided to change the channel to something else while Boston was getting hammered by 20 points. Minutes later when I switched back they were now down only 13 and showing signs of life. Rondo sprinted down court, received the long pass, and......blew the layup. Nothing went the Celtics way in this game, nothing. They got pushed around all afternoon and didn't respond while they lost 100-77. This team has all the pieces to get a championship, they just haven't put the puzzle together yet. Some people are blaming the Perk trade but please, be real here. Defense is not the big issue here, its horrible shot selection and several turnovers. Perk was great and all but he did not contribute at all on offense during his stay here. Now it is up to Doc and the Celts to get the ship in the right direction within the next week and it looks like they will get the three seed unless Miami loses tomorrow and the C's win.
C's look to sweep Lebron, Dwade, and Bosh and snag #2 seed
Sunday's prime-time matchup will be a heated (no pun intended) game
between two title contenders. The first 3 games this year lived up to
the hype and this one looks to as well. Even though Miami and Boston are
tied in the standings, the Celtics are easily the better team. They
have 3 major differences that the Heat lack and that is a true point
guard, a quality big man, and a great coach. Shaq did not travel with
the team to Miami yesterday and he will not play, however Krstic and
J.O. have been playing great together recently and if they can do it
again today then all Boston fans will feel great about this team's
playoff journey that lies ahead.The winner of this game will have a
vice-grip on the #2 seed for the Eastern Conference which will be huge
if these teams face each other in the second round of the playoffs. The
matchups to watch today will be the Lebron-Pierce matchup and the
KG-Bosh matchup. Over KG's career he has absolutely dominated Chris Bosh
and I believe he will again today. The Lebron-Pierce matchup will be
amazing to watch because these two guys have always put on a show
against eachother dating back to May 18, 2008 when Lebron scored 45 and
Pierce scored 41 in a playoff duel for the ages. If you don't have any
plans for this afternoon then I highly recommend watching this game, it
WILL be a playoff preview. Go Celts!!!
Celtics split back to back games once again
Thursday
night's matchup between two heavyweights was supposed to be better than
the poor result that followed. Chicago played superb but Boston lacked
its usual spark and they were trampled by future MVP Derrick Rose as he
dropped 30 points on the Celts like an atomic bomb. The C's were run out
of town by a score of 97-81. But Friday night the Celtics put that
horror show of a game in their rear-view and focused on their next
opponent, the Washington Wizards. This game was never really out of the
Celtics control as they fought their way to victory 104-88. It was a
very impressive game as 3 members of the Celts had double doubles. Paul
Pierce, Rajon Rondo, and Kevin Garnett were these 3 warriors who led the
team to a W on Friday night and with the win they hold on to the #2
seed in the Eastern Conference. The next game will be a big game against
the Miami Heat down in South Beach. Both teams are tied for the 2 seed
and the winner will have control over their own destiny. You can smell
the playoffs in the air already!
KG and the Celts had trouble against the Chicago defense on Thursday night
Celts defeat Sixers in potential first round matchup
The Celts played great basketball for a second straight game and for this time of year that is a relieving sign. The problem at center seems a lot less worse now that Krstic and J.O. are both healthy. Both of the big men played great combining for 17 points and once Shaq comes back (AGAIN) they should have a nice 3 man rotation going for the playoffs. But as for the game against Philly, the C's seem to be turning the dial to playoff mode now and let me tell you ITS ABOUT TIME! Pierce led the squad with 18 points while Rondo had 16 and another double double. When Rondo was not on the floor though Delonte West supplied the team with great hustle and he will be an x-factor to banner 18. Another strong second half from the green machine was the nail in the coffin for Philly as the Celts won 99-82 in a pretty dominant game by Boston. If this is in fact a first round preview then I love the C's chances. Philly might be faster and more athletic than the Celts but the when it comes down to just straight up balling the C's take the cake by a mile. The Celtics will look to win their 3rd straight on Thursday night in Chicago and that should be an amazing game as the East's top two teams meet.
Rondo had 13 assists and 16 points as he racked up another double double
Patriots' off-season needs: DEFENSE
We know that our offense can get it done but offense is not what wins championships. Without a game-controlling defense this team cannot win a Super Bowl. Just look at the past 4 champions: Packers, Saints, Steelers, Giants.
D-LINE- The Pats defensive line could certainly use some more firepower alongside Vince Wilfork. Ty Warren missed all of last year with an injury and his physical status is unknown. If he is healthy and can play like he did in the past then we'll be all set on that side. Now the biggest problem on the WHOLE Patriots team is their pass-rush. It has been absolutely horrible for about 3 years now and it MUST be fixed very soon. Guys like Mike Wright and Eric Moore are not going to cut it. Jermaine Cunningham, who played both DE and OLB, can do an alright job but he is mostly in there for his run stopping ability. I think the Pats will most likely go to the draft for this position and with two first round picks they'll get someone with great potential. Until the Pats fill this large void in their defense they will not win a Super Bowl, that is for sure.
OLB- If the Pat's don't get a pass-rusher on the defensive line then they can always get one for an outside linebacker. Tully Banta-Cain has done a solid job at OLB but he can't do it himself they need someone else who can explode into the offensive backfield for blitzing and also for getting to the running back early. Rob Ninkovich plays on the other side and he is a fantastic ballplayer but once again they need someone who can get to the quarterback and get there often. I know that I keep mentioning the value of picking up a pass-rusher but it is just such an important thing to have.
ILB- Jerod Mayo is the NFL's leading tackler and is one of the best linebackers in the league and with young Brandon Spikes, who had a fantastic rookie season in 2010, playing with him in the middle they could have one of the best run stopping defenses in the NFL. It all falls upon whether all these young players can mature together and become a cohesive unit. Bottom line is that the inside linebacker position is good to go.
CB- Here is a position that the Pats used to have trouble with but with the addition of Devin McCourty in last year's draft they have noticeably improved. Veteran corner, Leigh Bodden, will be returning after he missed last year with a shoulder injury. Some fans might forget what he did 2 years ago in 2009 but he did his job and did it with great effort. He can't wait to get back on the gridiron and I can't wait to see him and McCourty pick off Sanchez. Another cornerback would be a solid addition but I think they'll be all set if they do not pick one up.
S- The Patriots have two young and talented safeties in Brandon Meriweather and Pat Chung. They can both bring some energy and toughness to the D and both have the ability to read the offensive plays and cover deep. These two studs, along with hard hitting James Sanders are the reason that there is no need to pick up a safety in the draft or free agency.
D-LINE- The Pats defensive line could certainly use some more firepower alongside Vince Wilfork. Ty Warren missed all of last year with an injury and his physical status is unknown. If he is healthy and can play like he did in the past then we'll be all set on that side. Now the biggest problem on the WHOLE Patriots team is their pass-rush. It has been absolutely horrible for about 3 years now and it MUST be fixed very soon. Guys like Mike Wright and Eric Moore are not going to cut it. Jermaine Cunningham, who played both DE and OLB, can do an alright job but he is mostly in there for his run stopping ability. I think the Pats will most likely go to the draft for this position and with two first round picks they'll get someone with great potential. Until the Pats fill this large void in their defense they will not win a Super Bowl, that is for sure.
OLB- If the Pat's don't get a pass-rusher on the defensive line then they can always get one for an outside linebacker. Tully Banta-Cain has done a solid job at OLB but he can't do it himself they need someone else who can explode into the offensive backfield for blitzing and also for getting to the running back early. Rob Ninkovich plays on the other side and he is a fantastic ballplayer but once again they need someone who can get to the quarterback and get there often. I know that I keep mentioning the value of picking up a pass-rusher but it is just such an important thing to have.
ILB- Jerod Mayo is the NFL's leading tackler and is one of the best linebackers in the league and with young Brandon Spikes, who had a fantastic rookie season in 2010, playing with him in the middle they could have one of the best run stopping defenses in the NFL. It all falls upon whether all these young players can mature together and become a cohesive unit. Bottom line is that the inside linebacker position is good to go.
CB- Here is a position that the Pats used to have trouble with but with the addition of Devin McCourty in last year's draft they have noticeably improved. Veteran corner, Leigh Bodden, will be returning after he missed last year with a shoulder injury. Some fans might forget what he did 2 years ago in 2009 but he did his job and did it with great effort. He can't wait to get back on the gridiron and I can't wait to see him and McCourty pick off Sanchez. Another cornerback would be a solid addition but I think they'll be all set if they do not pick one up.
S- The Patriots have two young and talented safeties in Brandon Meriweather and Pat Chung. They can both bring some energy and toughness to the D and both have the ability to read the offensive plays and cover deep. These two studs, along with hard hitting James Sanders are the reason that there is no need to pick up a safety in the draft or free agency.
Great week of sports set for this week
All sports fans across the country must be excited for this week. Its probably the best week of sports left until the NBA and NHL playoffs overlap each other. First off, if your a Boston fan then you can look forward to two big Celts games against two playoff teams. Tuesday night they'll be facing the Philadelphia 76ers and Thursday night they'll hit the road to face the Chicago Bulls who are currently 3 games ahead of the C's in the battle for the number one seed in the east. Then the Bruins will be playing a couple big games as they try to rise in the ranks of the east as well. Tonight they'll be playing the Rangers which might be a potential first round playoff series. Hell of a week, huh? Well I haven't even mentioned the two biggest events yet. Tonight will be the NCAA National Championship between the UConn Huskies and the Butler Bulldogs. Both teams have scratched and clawed their way to Houston for the big dance and they will not disappoint. Butler is returning to the title game after last year's cinderella story finished just short of a championship. UConn is riding on the shoulders of their superstar guard Kemba Walker and they are heavily favored to win this Monday night matchup. This epic week of sports will finish off with the best golf tournament in the country. The Masters will start up on Thursday as the best of the PGA will come together. Even if you aren't a fan of golf you must be interested in who will be awarded the green jacket. This has the potential to one of the best Masters in a while. Will Tiger finally win a tournament again and take home his 5th green jacket? Will Phil Mickelson defend his crown? Or will a young star such as Anthony Kim go under the radar and steal the glory? By Sunday you will have all of the answers. What a great week of sports we have to look forward to, rest up sports fans its gonna be a crazy week.
Celtics beat Detroit but suffer BIG loss
Boston sports fans were looking forward to this game because it marked
the return of Shaq. He had been out for about a month and a half until
today. Jermaine O'Neal started the game at center but Shaq would
eventually come in. When his 23 size shoes hit the parquet floor the
crowd erupted into a frenzy. Shaq showed a lot of energy scoring 6
points and playing great D. But 5 minutes into his shift a terrible
thing occurred. The Big Shamroq had hurt his left leg and he limped of
the court and would have to be taken to the locker room via a
wheelchair. But a game still had to be played for the Celts. Everyone
contributed to the fire in this one. This game was a very close copy of
Friday nights debacle in Atlanta. However the only difference was that
the C's actually closed this one out and finished off the Pistons.
Boston won the game 101-90 in a true heart-check of a game. Nenad Krstic
is set to come back Tuesday night against Philly and Shaq's injury
should sideline him until the first round (my guess). With one of the
O'Neals healthy this team is very solid but with both of them this team
is ELITE. So the importance of these two guys is vital to banner 18.
Lets all hope that Shaq will be back as soon as possible and that we'll
have a healthy squad for the playoff run. Go Celts!
C's win old fashioned wild west shootout in Texas
Turn off all the alarms and put the cover on the panic buttons for now.
The Celts put on a fabulous show last night in San Antonio and it was
the first time in a while that they played hard for all 48 minutes and.
They shot the lights out in the second half and shot 54% for the entire
game. Rondo led the C's with 22 points on the way to another double
double and he nailed most of the jump shots he attempted (yes I said
Rondo). At the half it was all squared up 49-49 but the Celts would
surge at the Spurs like a tidal wave in the second half. They played
this game like it was the playoffs and that is a fantastic sign. Energy
was flowing from one player to another. They knew that they would
eventually have to step up and turn this thing around before the
playoffs officially started and they looked awesome last night. In the
second half KG, Rondo, and Pierce led the impressive attack and they
each kept the ball moving on offense. Big baby Glen Davis would also
contribute to this offensive show because starting center Nenad Krstic
left the game with a knee injury so this would lead to more PT for Glen.
Another great sign to see was the return of Jermaine O'Neal. He didn't
get much playing time but he played solid defense on Tim Duncan and
showed some improvement on O. The Celts won the game 107-97 and
revitalized themselves which is absolutely awesome. Boston fans should
be ecstatic after this game because now they know that their team will
be able to turn it on in late April, plus the return of Shaq should be
very soon.
Paul Pierce showed TRUE leadership in Thursday nights big win.
Patriots' off-season needs: OFFENSE
After a fantastic 2010 regular season(and a playoff let down) it'll be interesting on what the Pats do with their off-season. The lockout will cause a temporary delay with these tasks but hopefully the NFL and NFLPA can come to an agreement ASAP. We will take a look at each position for the Pats and see whats necessary, what can wait, and what is already set.
QB: Obviously this position is fine the way it is with Tom Brady not showing a single sign of aging after his 2nd MVP season. But the Pats should really start to look for a backup who will eventually take over in the future because I don't think Brian Hoyer is capable of being a quality starter. They definitely should not dwell on this position at all but maybe a 4th or 5th round pick could produce a solid QB (Don't forget Brady was selected in the 6th round).
RB: The running back position is actually a spot to watch for the Pats this off-season. Benjarvus Green-Ellis had a phenomenal 2010 season while rushing over 1000 yards but he will be a free agent if he is not resigned by New England. Danny Woodhead is a great 3rd down back to have who can also play a little slot receiver from time to time but he certainly is not a carry the workload type of guy. I feel pretty confident that the Pats will resign Green-Ellis and if they do then I think they should go after a veteran running back, who still has some gas in the tank, in free agency. If they fail to resign Benny then I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Pats trade up with one of their 1st round picks to take Mark Ingram. He has talked about being selected by the Patriots and Bill Belichick has expressed his opinion toward the young RB.
WR:Here is the position on offense where the Pats need an addition. Last years speedy slot receiver type of offense will not work next season and that was seen in January. They need a tall, big play receiver who can catch, block, stretch the defense, and somewhat do it all. Randy Moss did it in 2007 but failed to reach his potential in 2010 so we shipped him outta town. For this position the Pats can either look to free agency or the draft. It all depends on what they want. If they want to win a super bowl now then they should go to free agency. They have to think though that Tom Brady's career is gonna end sooner rather than later and adding a rookie fresh off the draft might take long to develop. However there are plenty of talented WR's in this year's draft so they will have a chance to pick up a young stud. Either way expect to see the Patriots to add a WR in the off-season.
TE- ALL SET
OL- Another major position problem brewing here at the offensive line. Matt Light is considering retirement, Logan Mankins has an expired contract and is unhappy with Bob Kraft, and several O-linemen are over 30 such as Light, Neal, Koppen, and Kaczur. I think that this is one of the positions to go after in the draft. Picking up one or two fresh, young linemen would do good for this team and would start a fountain of youth on the o-line just as they did on defense and at the tight end position over the past 3 years.
QB: Obviously this position is fine the way it is with Tom Brady not showing a single sign of aging after his 2nd MVP season. But the Pats should really start to look for a backup who will eventually take over in the future because I don't think Brian Hoyer is capable of being a quality starter. They definitely should not dwell on this position at all but maybe a 4th or 5th round pick could produce a solid QB (Don't forget Brady was selected in the 6th round).
RB: The running back position is actually a spot to watch for the Pats this off-season. Benjarvus Green-Ellis had a phenomenal 2010 season while rushing over 1000 yards but he will be a free agent if he is not resigned by New England. Danny Woodhead is a great 3rd down back to have who can also play a little slot receiver from time to time but he certainly is not a carry the workload type of guy. I feel pretty confident that the Pats will resign Green-Ellis and if they do then I think they should go after a veteran running back, who still has some gas in the tank, in free agency. If they fail to resign Benny then I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Pats trade up with one of their 1st round picks to take Mark Ingram. He has talked about being selected by the Patriots and Bill Belichick has expressed his opinion toward the young RB.
WR:Here is the position on offense where the Pats need an addition. Last years speedy slot receiver type of offense will not work next season and that was seen in January. They need a tall, big play receiver who can catch, block, stretch the defense, and somewhat do it all. Randy Moss did it in 2007 but failed to reach his potential in 2010 so we shipped him outta town. For this position the Pats can either look to free agency or the draft. It all depends on what they want. If they want to win a super bowl now then they should go to free agency. They have to think though that Tom Brady's career is gonna end sooner rather than later and adding a rookie fresh off the draft might take long to develop. However there are plenty of talented WR's in this year's draft so they will have a chance to pick up a young stud. Either way expect to see the Patriots to add a WR in the off-season.
TE- ALL SET
OL- Another major position problem brewing here at the offensive line. Matt Light is considering retirement, Logan Mankins has an expired contract and is unhappy with Bob Kraft, and several O-linemen are over 30 such as Light, Neal, Koppen, and Kaczur. I think that this is one of the positions to go after in the draft. Picking up one or two fresh, young linemen would do good for this team and would start a fountain of youth on the o-line just as they did on defense and at the tight end position over the past 3 years.
Celts escape with win in Minnesota
After watching the first quarter most people probably thought that the
C's were back on track with a potential blowout in store. At the end of
the first the Celts led 32-13 but the T-Wolves would close the gap
quickly. They came roaring back with a 22-6 run which tied the game
midway through the third quarter.Doc let his team have it during a
timeout in the third, yelling at Nenad Krstic and the rest of the team.
Everything that the Celts were doing right in the first half was gone
by the third. Late in the third and into the fourth Paul Pierce stepped
up to slow down Minnesota and KG nailed two clutch jumpers to put Boston
in front for good. The struggling Celtics won this matchup 85-82 and
stay 2 games behind Chicago while staying just a half game up on Miami.
Nobody should be pushing the panic button yet because this time last
year the Celts were struggling the same way and I believe they are
playing a more conservative type of ball to stay healthy for the playoff
run. The two O'Neals should be back soon and we'll see how that shapes
up when it happens but for now the C's will be in Indiana tomorrow night
to face the young and talented Pacers. Hopefully Rajon Rondo will be
back for that game because he needs to step his game up sooner rather
than later.
Paul Pierce led the C's with 23 points
C's lose close one to old friends
Not
too much to complain about in this one besides a loss. Both teams
played solid basketball throughout but the Grizzlies just made one more
play than the C's. Paul Pierce led the game with 22 points and Rondo had
yet another double-double. Tony Allen and Leon Powe played hard against
their former team and they were great contributions to the Grizzlies'
victory on Wednesday night. Besides a few key turnovers our boys in
green played pretty well but they can't expect to win with sloppy plays
such as they displayed tonight. All that can be said about this game is
congrats to our friends T.A. and Leon and the Celts need some sharpening
before mid April. Its a great sign to see Pierce hitting some clutch
shots and driving the ball a lot more and lets hope everyone will follow
in his footsteps. Doc's coaching will be a key factor in this final
push for the #1 seed and you have to love their chances with Doc at the wheel.
Tough night for Celts as they disagree with refs
C's win the battle and the war down in NY
Once
the ball was thrown into the air for the opening tip you could feel the
rivalry in the air. Whether it was the "Boston Sucks" chants, elbows
being thrown, or the blood covered players; you knew this was a big game
for these two teams and these two cities. For a third straight game the
Celts got off to a poor start only making 35% of their first half shots
while the Knicks made about 50%. Boston trailed at the half 51-37 and
went to the locker room with their heads down once again. But just like a
lot of the previous games this one featured a monster second half by
the C's. Everyone was doing their job, Rondo was penetrating the D, KG
was energizing the team with his hustle and high intensity, and Paul
Pierce was nailing clutch shot after clutch shot. Boston tore through
the Knicks in the 4th quarter and won this one 96-86 and shut up Spike
Lee and the NY fans. This game was certainly the best game of the second
half of the season for the Celtics and that is good news for a team
that has struggled a bit recently. The Celtics showed tremendous heart
tonight and with the return of Shaq looming in the near future this
squad can only get better.
Paul Pierce takes care New York superstar Carmelo Anthony
New chapter of New York-Boston rivalry to be seen tomorrow night
Tomorrow night might be the beginning of a new piece to the best rivalry
between two cities. Tomorrow night might be a vital part to both the
Knicks and Celtics season. It is seen as just a regular season game in
late March but it contains much more if it is looked at closer. This
game will be the first time the Celts have faced the post-Carmelo trade
Knicks and it might be a preview of a playoff series. You may be
thinking, why is this game so important? Or what does this game have to
do with the playoffs? Well I'll tell you. This game is so important
because if the Knicks can pull off a win against the C's then they will
know that they can beat this team and the C's will be 0-1 against the
"new" Knicks. This will technically be the final game they meet each
other in the regular season(they will play once more but it will be a
meaningless game most likely as the final reg. season game) so it would
be best for the Green Machine to end the series with a win. The Celts
have locked up the Atlantic Division and are closing in on a #1 seed for
the playoffs. This game promises to be a great one full of future hall
of famers, Spike Lee, and it will all take place on the famous hardwood
of Madison Square Garden. It doesn't pack the punch that a Heat-Celts or
Lakers-Celts does but it'll be one of the last great games until this
time next month. The Celtics-Knicks rivalry has been absent for quite
some time but with the addition of Carmelo Anthony and Spike Lee's words
toward Kevin Garnett, saying he "needs to calm the f**k down", will add
some spice to this competition.
CELTS WIN DESPITE POOR 1st HALF AND TERRIBLE OFFICIATING
The Celts were down on Bourbon Street for this one as they took on the Hornets. The first half was a replica of the previous nights tragedy of a game in Houston. But the C's came out in the second half all fired up and showed both their physical and emotional toughness. They scratched and clawed their way back from a 15 point deficit and were within striking distance of New Orleans. Big Baby Davis dominated while back in his home state, dropping 20 points and snagging 8 rebounds. The Celts closed the third quarter on a 23-6 run which sent them ahead for good. The fourth quarter was a nail biter for both teams. Boston's brick wall defense shutdown Chris Paul and company and was the finishing blow to the Hornets as the Celts hung on to win this one 89-85. The boys in green won't have much time to celebrate their victory because they have a huge game on Monday Night against the CARMELO New York Knicks at MSG. This game could have a playoff feel to it and who knows it might just be a preview of round one this April.
