Pick 'em Week 3

Well, week 3 is here and some teams are surprising/disappointing their fans. I'm back with Pick 'em this week as we have more in division games. I'd like to get this out everyweek just for fun and future reference, but who knows.

Also, Alex Capozza will be joining again since he does not at Wells Fargo all day. His comments are in dark blue, while mine are in dark red. Game on.

Cincinnati vs. Carolina

Carolina is already turning to the future with Jimmy Clausen getting the start, and John Fox’s job is doubt already even though his reign ends at years end. Cincy needs to get Benson more involved if Palmer wants to have anytime to throw to Batman and Robin. CINCINNATI.

The Panthers are in disarray after already making the switch to Jimmy Clausen. Meanwhile the Bengals are coming off their 8^th straight win against a division foe and a Super Bowl favorite in the Ravens. The Pick: Bengals.

Buffalo vs. NEW ENGLAND

The Pats returned to Earth with no secondary help and little chance against a good Jets D. This is a perfect matchup with the hopelessly lost Bills. Buffalo is also changing QB’s in an effort to get next year’s number 1 pick and settle that situation with Jake Locker or Ryan Mallett. This one could get ugly. NEW ENGLAND.

Pats coming off a divisional loss is bad news for the Bills, as if they needed anymore. The Pick: Patriots.

San Francisco vs. Kansas City

The newly formed Midwest New England Patriots are 2-0 and atop the AFC West, a certain surprise. The 49ers have been nothing short of a disappointment losing their first two games. I think they right the ship with a “Can’t win with 'em, can’t coach ‘em” attitude and bring the Chiefs back to the pack with a healthy dose of Frank Gore. SAN FRANCISCO

0-2 at 2-0, looks easy on paper, but it’s hard to imagine either one of these teams continuing the trend they’ve started in the first two weeks. The Niners need to get their act together, but they’ve got a little more leeway because of the division they’re in. The Pick: 49ers.

Tennessee vs. New York

When people realize that Eli isn’t that good, they’ll realize the Giants aren’t that good. It is clear Carolina is far overrated and the Saints destruction of NY last week should this team is far from good. I’m giving the Titans the benefit of the doubt against the Steelers and VY’s benching will open his eyes. TENNESSEE.

CJ’s pissed about Hines Ward’s recent comments, and he’s going to take it out on a Giants D that just got scorched by the Colts. The Pick: Titans

Cleveland vs. Baltimore

Ravens D might hang 30 up on Seneca and Co. by themselves since the offense hasn’t proven itself. Flacco has a ton of tools but is slowing showing the sophomore slump. Think of the Ravens D WITH Ed Reed. Yikes. BALTIMORE.

The Browns have lost two close games thus far, and are another team with quarterback issues. For the Ravens, it’s been a slow start for an offense many expected to have a big year. Expect that offense to break out here in Week 3. The Pick: Ravens.

Pittsburgh vs. Tampa Bay

I could be the QB for Pittsburgh and get a win with this team. Tomlin can coach, Mendenhall can run the ball, and Polamula is the best defensive player in the game (Ask Kerry Collins). Tampa is young a good start to the season shouldn’t detour this team after this week. PITTSBURGH.

Give the Bucs credit, not too many people had them starting 2-0, but they’ve done it by beating two of the worst teams in football. They’ll get their first real test this week against maybe the best defense in the league when healthy. The Pick: Steelers.

Atlanta vs. New Orleans

Walking into Candlestick on Monday Night and getting out with a deserved win is a tough thing to do and the Saints proved that they are in the top tier of teams in the league. The Falcons are young, but I’m not sold on Turner being a feature back after only having over 1,000 yards one time. Still, the Superdome comes alive and the Saints go marching on. NEW ORLEANS.

Big measuring stick game for the Falcons to see where they’re at in the division against the Champs. I think they’re much improved, but not quite on the Saints level just yet. The Pick: Saints.

Detroit vs. Minnesota

If Matthew Stafford was at the helm, the game would be different. The Vikings D has shown up the first two games with the Offense lagging way behind. All Day goes off and the Vikes get their first win. MINNESOTA

Must win game for the Vikings, and they’ll take care of business at home here against the Lions, who have lost two really tough, close games. Make it a third. The Pick: Vikings

Dallas vs. Houston

This Battle of Texas has first team to 30 wins written all over it. The Schaub-Foster-Johnson Trio with Walter sprinkled in has the makings of some fun all year. However, the Texans have failed to show they can stop anything through the air and Romo and Crew need a win desperately. DALLAS.

Where’s the panic button in Big D? Pretty much a must win game for the Boys if they want to do anything this year. Start the Wade Phillips countdown. The Pick: Texans.

Philadelphia vs. Jacksonville

Probably won’t know who wins this game, because it won’t be on television, Hurray NFL Blackouts. If you do see it, watch Vick run and gun past the Jags D as his return has little a fuse in the Eagles locker room. Vick was a superstar before his incident, don’t forget that. PHILADELPHIA.

Vick or Kolb? For this week, at least, it probably doesn’t matter too much. But for the long run, how can Andy Reid seriously justify this move after just two weeks? The Pick: Eagles.

Washington vs. St. Louis

Upset special. Anyone remember the ‘Skins blowing a 27-10 late in the third quarter? I do. Anyone remember 2006 Steven Jackson? I do. Bradford throws over 40 times and gets his team a win in the 4^th quarter. The fighting Spagnuolo’s rejoice! ST.LOUIS.

If not for an icing of the kicker, the Skins would be 2-0. Still, the new coach and quarterback have people in the Nation’s Capital believing. Plus, it’s the Rams. The Pick: Redskins.

Indianapolis vs. Denver

A Brown/Addai backfield working with a deep receiving core is just trouble for Denver. The game wasn’t even as close as the scores shows from Monday night. Denver can’t stay healthy although I think Orton can put up a fight. INDIANAPOLIS.

Indy got back to their typical winning ways Sunday night, and there’s no reason to believe this isn’t another 12 or 13 win year for them. The Pick: Colts.

Oakland vs. Arizona

It’s Brad Gradkowski’s world, we’re just living in it. Or not. The Raiders are changing quarterbacks after a WIN, and Derek Anderson is still the guy in ‘Zona. Might be the worst game of the season yet one team is going to 2-1. ARIZONA.

I can’t think of anything worse than sitting down on a Sunday afternoon for three hours and watching this game. The Pick: Raiders.

San Diego vs. Seattle

Recall on all Pete Carroll Hero Dolls; last week was reality. A fluky week 1 showed how inconsistent and not ready this team really is. Chargers are back to beating bad teams. Rivers is the real deal, tough to see how the Vincent Jackson saga will play out.

Let’s see, Denver beat up on Seattle in Week 2, while San Diego was dismantling Jacksonville, who had previously beaten the Broncos in Week 1. Got it? Good. The Pick: Chargers.

New York Jets vs. Miami

No Revis Island and the Dolphins’ defense does work against the Sanchise. Take the under, but be ready for good defense. MIAMI.

In a shocking turn of events, the Jets have been making headlines this week. Revis has already been ruled out, who knows how much Edwards will play, and I sense the Jets are a little complacent after their victory over the Pats last week. Plus it’s the home opener on Sunday Night Football for the 2-0 Fins. The Pick: Dolphins.

Green Bay vs. Chicago

Chicago has improved and will probably be much better than anyone predicted. Yet, Green Bay/New Orleans are above everyone. The Pack’s D has improved tremendously and will scare teams. GREEN BAY.

Classic divisional battle and they’re both off to perfect starts. Problem is, I think only one of these two teams are for real. The Pick: Packers.

Dat Foosball Bobby Boucher Part 2

Back at round 2 of the NFL preview before tonight's Vikes/Saints NFC championship rematch, my prediction look flawless as usual while who knows what Capozza is thinking. This side of the 32 teams has a lot more potential than that of the first 16. On way we go, by the way, I'm on the saints tonight. Favre will look old and AP needs to assert himself tonight if he has any hope of being mentioned with CJ this year.

Miami Dolphins (8.5 wins)
RT: The AFC East is loaded and one team has to go .500. Henne truly hasn't proven himself in my opinion. Biggest thing they have is still the wildcat. Marshall will help but with Ginn and Camarillo gone, who else is there to cover? OVER.
AC: There’s nothing I hate more than betting on my own teams. Having said that if they don’t win at least 9 games, I’ll be supremely disappointed. Well, now that I’ve doomed them for the next 4 months….OVER.

Minnesota Vikings (9.5 wins)
RT: Like I said, Favre doesn't have a wideout. AP will see 7/8 in the box. The offense struggles and the D crumbles. And Brett slowly fades off into the sunset, ya right. UNDER.
AC: I could see this getting ugly in a hurry in Minnesota. Tough schedule to start the year, and if Favre starts poorly, the roof could cave in. UNDER.

New England Patriots (9.5 wins)
RT: Every year someone questions this team, and every year they produce. Weird how that works. Belichick still coaches the hell of out football and if any of the RB's step up, this team will make noise. OVER.
AC:I have no clue about this team. But I do know that I’m worried about their defense, especially their corners with the loss of Bodden. But there’s still Brady, Moss, Welker, and that Belichick guy. I’m not in love with them at all, but it’s tough to still not see them winning 10. OVER.

New Orleans Saints (10.5 wins)
RT: NFC. Same offense. D might struggle but who cares when you can score 45 on everyone. OVER.
AC:Super Bowl hangover? Doubtful. Easy OVER.

New York Giants (8.5 wins)
RT:Plax still in jail and Eli doesn't know where he is half the time. Not an impressive team and Coughlin gets the boot at the end of the year. UNDER.
AC:Their defense got worse as the season went on last year. I’m banking on them being improved, but there’s still big question marks there. In a division where I expect all four teams to be between 8 and 10 wins, I’ll go with the odds. OVER.

New York Jets (9.5 wins)
RT: Rex Ryan is huge. OVER.

AC:Maybe it’s my utter disdain for them, their head coach, and their entire fan base, but I’m not on the bandwagon. Unlike last year, they’ll have a big target on their back, and Revis will have an even bigger one. UNDER

Oakland Raiders (6 wins)

RT: Anyone else realize that Jason Campbell isn't a huge upgrade at all? Maybe not even an upgrade. Oh wait, is Al Davis still alive??? UNDER.

AC:Good sleeper playoff team. I’m not sure they’ll get that far, but they played well against good teams last year, plus they got rid of their fat quarterback. So that’s a plus. OVER.

Philadelphia Eagles (8.5 wins)

RT: The real question is what running back is going to step up. Kolb or Vick will be fine as the QB, but will a running game emerge or will Andy Dandy Reid throw everywhere? OVER.

AC: I’m driving the Kevin Kolb fan bus. He’ll make everyone in Philly forget about McNabb if they haven’t already. Plus, I’ve already said I think everyone in this division wins between 8 and 10 games. So again, I’ll play the odds. OVER.

Pittsburgh Steelers (8.5 wins)
RT: This defense is real good with Polamula. Without it, big trouble. Mendenhall is just good and there is enough veteran leadership to push this team forward.

AC:Everyone’s focused on Ben being out 4 games, and how that will affect this teams chances. I don’t care that much. This team’s still about defense. Polamalu being out for much of last year killed them, so if he stays healthy, I’d be shocked if they don’t get to at least 9. OVER.

San Diego Chargers (10.5 wins)
RT: It's the AFC West and the Chargers are always above everyone. Matthews is a stud waiting to happen. Watch out. My super bowl sleeper. OVER.

AC: Big number here, but when you realize that this is based on the regular season and not the playoffs, it’s really not that bad. OVER.

San Francisco 49ers (8.5 wins)
RT: Can not win with em. Can not coach with em. But you can win with em. Singletary rises above it this year. OVER.

AC:I’m not in love with this team like seemingly everyone else. However, I’ll tell you what I do love about them—their division. OVER.

Seattle Seahawks (7.5 wins)

RT: Petey is back in town. First thing he does: Cut the guy he signed at the beginning of the summer camp. Second thing: Cuts his pro-bowl wide out. UNDER.

AC:I’m going to take the wait and see approach with Pete Carroll this time around in the league. Until then, UNDER.

St. Louis Rams (5 wins)
RT: I don't know and I don't care. NFC West helps and I've never been a fan of the 1st overall pick coming off an injury. Thank their schedule. OVER.

AC:I like Bradford, but he’s going to take a beating. They’ll be improved, but that’s not saying much. UNDER.

Tampa Bay Bucs (5.5 wins)

RT: Another don't know/ don't care. Except the fact I'm gonna have to watch this crap for the year. UNDER.

AC:They’re going to play tough and surprise some teams, and I’m a Josh Freeman believer. OVER.

Tennessee Titans (8.5 wins)

RT:Might get Haynesworth which helps anyone no matter how big of an ass he is, yet Jeff Fisher still shows he's a genius. This team will surprise this division. 9-7 is the only record I see for this team. OVER.

AC:Telling year for Vince Young. We know what Chris Johnson brings to the table, but the verdicts still out on VY. Plus, I can’t name anyone on their defense anymore. UNDER.

Washington Redskins (7.5 wins)

RT: No, just no really. I don't see it. I like Shanny, but give it a year. McNabb only has cooley and I don't think the O-Line can make big enough holes for Booty-do. UNDER.
AC:Solid upgrade at quarterback. Huge upgrade at head coach. Everyone in this division will be pretty evenly matched. OVER.

Well folks, it's late, but the world goes on. This did not into consideration of week 1. I will say I was wrong about the Vikes/Saints, that was a snoozefest. Good luck to your fantasy teams, dawgfights are a coming.

Til next time, play it back to play it forward.

Dat Foosball Bobby Boucher

Well, the NFL season has arrived and Thursday night will usher in the new teams, players, and division rivalries as the Vikings and Saints will kickoff. I'm going to adopt to my friend Alex Capozza's style with the over under wins and my prediction. I don't with mostly anything he does, but maybe some of his viewpoints.

My prediction will be first followed by his attempt of Tom Jackson. Part 1 for the first half of the league followed by part 2 tomorrow.

Arizona Cardinals (7.5 wins)
RT: You get the NFC west and you're virtually guaranteed 3 wins. The 49ers will surprise everyone and Fitz won't get the ball now that he's quad-covered. Derek Anderson sucks that much. Barely OVER
AC:I would’ve gone under if Leinhart was still there, but I think Derek Anderson is worth at least a couple of more wins. Yikes, what does that say about Leinhart? OVER.

Atlanta Falcons (9 wins)
RT:Turner is as overrated as they come. They need to involve Gonzalez and White as much as possible. Matt Ryan is real good if a line shows up. PUSH.
AC:Traditionally lots of turnover in this division, and I like them for a Wild Card spot. Big comeback years for Matty Ice and Turner. OVER.

Baltimore Ravens (10 wins)

RT: If you've seen their road schedule, you'll know 10 wins is a high watermark. Addition of Houz puts these guys atop the North with the Steeler right behind. OVER

AC:Trendy Super Bowl pick, and I’m buying in. Big image change this year for the Ravens, as they easily have the most weapons they’ve ever had on offense. OVER.

Buffalo Bills (5 wins)

RT: This team sucks. First overall pick next year. CJ Spiller wasn't needed. Jimmy Clausen was. This will be the NFL pee-on. UNDER.

AC:This team’s atrocious. Add in a brutal division and the fact that they still don’t have a quarterback. But hey, at least they’ve got Chan Gailey, he’s gotta be worth something, right? If this number were 3, I’d still go UNDER.

Carolina Panthers (7 wins)

RT: Honestly, first real disagreement. When you have two star running backs, trade one and get a high draft pick for a wide out to help out Steve Smith. Losing Pepper will be evident. PUSH.

AC:Matt Moore starts all 16 games and no one wonders where Jimmy Clausen is. Plus they run the football better than anyone else. OVER.

Chicago Bears (8 wins)

RT: Matt Forte gets underused. Pack and Vikes abuse. You can't have your best wide out play both ways, this ain't high school babbyyyyyy. UNDER.

AC:Never have and still don’t get everyone’s fascination with Mike Martz. Yes, I expect Cutler to rebound a little in his second year in Chicago, but that’s not saying much. UNDER.

Cincinnati Bengals (8 wins)

RT:Anyone remember they signed a guy for 4 yrs, $28mil and then cut him. This front office and coaching staff are not getting it right. TO didn't help. Expect the over a lot, but you can thank the D for it. UNDER.

AC:Horrendous finish to the season last year, and they’re not going 6-0 in the division again. It’s not 2006 and Carson Palmer isn’t good. UNDER.

Cleveland Browns (5.5 wins)

RT: Get me that 6th win baby. Could be 2-0 and then be 2-7 by week 10. C'mon Joshua Cribbs. Anyone realize Mangini is terrible and the fact that Mike Holmgren might be coaching by week 6? OVER.

AC:They played well down the stretch last year, plus they’ve got a new quarterback. Problem is Mangini’s still the coach and that new quarterback is Jake Delhomme. UNDER.

Dallas Cowboys (10 wins)
RT: Team is fine. Kolb needs atleast another year and Cowboys prove they're just better than most teams in the NFC. Another division and they might be in trouble. OVER.

AC:I HATE this number. I like the team a lot, but that division’s always tough and their road schedule is brutal. Can’t believe it, but I’m going UNDER.

Denver Broncos (7.5 wins)

RT: I'll use the same math. Crappy quarterback(Life time 29-19) + trading your stud receiver(who is the biggest pain in the ass) + losing your best defender to injury(Hurts, but secondary is still good) = OVER.
AC:Simple math. Crappy quarterback + trading your stud receiver + losing your best defender to injury = UNDER.

Detroit Lions (5 wins)

RT: Best starts by week 4 and Stafford is actually the real deal. Surprised myself that's for sure. Anything is still an improvement from 2 years ago. OVER.

AC:I LOVE this team. Did I really just say that? I did and I mean it. Great sleeper playoff team. This offense should fun to watch IF they can all stay healthy. OVER.

Green Bay Packers (9.5 wins)
RT: This team is flat out loaded and I'm actually surprised the over-under is this low. Brett Favre ain't that good this year especially without wide out. ARodgers wants the title shot and I think this team wins the division. OVER.

AC:I’m down on the Vikes and Bears, so somebody’s gotta step up in this division. Another offense that will be fun to watch. OVER.

Houston Texans (8.5 wins)

RT: Answer: Andre Johnson is a man. You got the Jags twice, Chiefs, Raiders, and the Titans twice. OVER.
AC:Question: How many years in a row can you be someone’s “sexy” playoff pick? I’ll believe it when I see it. UNDER.

Indianapolis Colts (10.5 wins)

RT: I hate the Colts and their defense is the reason. Still Peyton will have two good commercials by years end. OVER.
AC: Don’t they win like 13 or 14 games every year? As long as the umpire stays out of Peyton’s way, they’ll be right there again. OVER.

Jacksonville Jaguars (7 wins)

RT: The actual over/under is week 7 for Jack Del Rio. Something smells like under. Too bad half the league won't know what their record is considering their games will all be blacked out.
AC: This team is dead to me. Remind me again why I just took MJD 3rd overall in a fantasy draft. Whatever, he’s good, but they suck as a team. End of the line for the David Garrard/Jack del Rio era. Way UNDER.
Kansas City Chiefs (6.5 wins)

RT: Chances Charlie Weis and Romeo Crennel eat a child by week 5? Highly likely. Chances of 7 wins? Even better. Played well down the stretch and have a relatively week schedule based on last year. OVER.
AC: They’ve got some talent on offense. See Jamaal Charles and Dwayne Bowe. Add in a capable quarterback due for a nice rebound year. Just have to account for the wackiness that is Todd Haley. But I’m still going OVER.

That's all for today. Check back tomorrow for the full update.

As always, you have to play it back to play it forward.

Football season, Baseball Races, and Domestic Leagues Oh MY!

Well, the fantasy drafts are up and running, and it just smells like football season. The season seems to bring about many unanswered questions to say the least. How long before the injury bug really digs into a team? The Redskins already look to not have their new prized possession for the first week. MoJo is secretly hiding a knee injury and the best wide out in the game, Larry Fitz, doesn't look close to his true form, let alone the fact he doesn't have a qb anymore.

The AFC looks like the American League with all of the talented teams only getting better over the offseason. The Ravens addition of Anquain Boldin only makes their team stronger with an actual threat outside of Derrick Mason. Ray Rice looks ready to take over the starting job with full force ahead(FF #4 pick rating). The Dolphins addition of Brandon Marshall means that they have a wide receiver for the first time since 1980. This might be the best addition of all. And then you have the Jets who seemed to think money has no object and buy fathers who don't remember who their kids are(Cromartie). Lump the Colts, Chargers, Patriots, Texans, Bengals, Steelers, and Titans into the mix and you're looking at 9 real quality teams for 6 spots. Oh the joys of someone getting screwed?

The NFC? Sweet, Cowboys, 49ers, Vikes, Packers and the Super Bowl Champs, the Saints. Wahoo. Look for these teams to run away with their divisions early. It's like little league for these teams

Baseball, for all of the fun that seemed to be shaping up at the beginning of August, a lot of it has fallen flat. Rays/Yanks are running away with the east, Twins are not faultering, Rangers are still flying high, Reds are playing well taking the central from the Cardinals, and the Padres continue to pitch well. The only race that looks up in the air is the National League wild card with 3 teams within four games. Sad to say that the Nation's 74 wins would only be winning that instead of seven back. Just one of those years.

Lastly, the domestic leagues are all off in the soccer world. The 7:45/10:00 games are back and alive with Chelsea and Barcelona showing how dominant they could be this year. It's amazing how they make goal scoring look so easy. Considering there's two things that happen in soccer: scoring and defending. These teams are just that good at it and it's tough to envision a lot of losses happening.

Btw, signing Bob Bradley for another 4 years will cause the US to fall back. More on that.

Til next time, you have to play it back to play it forward.

Division Races and the Trade Deadline

Every year at the end of July, teams across MLB are looking to position themselves for the last stretch of season with that last piece or the basement dwellers are always looking to dump salary. This year, it seemed like outside of the Dodgers and Phillies, the only major players were the first place teams. No team really greatly improved that was outside of 5 games from a playoff berth even though there is still enough time.

The Yanks put together a series of moves that will just continue to put them ahead of everyone else. As a Nationer, the addition of Berkman alone scares me. The line-up is deadly, and the role players off the bench fit even better. However, pitching and defense are always the keys in the playoffs and their failure to find a 4th or 5th starter for the time being while Pettitte is out will be glaring until the postseason. However, get CC, Andy Dandy, and whoever you want to put in (Hughes or Burnett) and you're looking at a deadly 5 game series especially with that offense.

The Rays did nothing. Good move? We will see with waivers. Really surprising to be honest.

The Nation did little to nothing. Good move? Yup. The machine, Jacoby, a healthy Victor, and Beckett are on the way. Don't mention the fact Epstein got his full time love affair settled with Saltalamacchia and the catcher of the future. He made a move just to make a move in essence. The AL East will be a hot topic for August and September into October, but the race that is getting interesting is the NL West.

San Diego has been atop most major pitching categories, but have been falling back down to earth as of late. Real surprising that Ludwick was their only serious pickup with the team struggling to make contact. I'd lump San Fran in the same category as their offense is nothing to write home about either.

All in all, the summer brings about important series for division, wild card, and spoilers. Teams are bringing up the youngins looking towards next year. Always nice to just sit down and watch a weekend series, that's for sure.

My Analysis and what FIFA needs to do. Plus, What I'm doing next

Well, the last month has came and went in South Africa and across the world and we have a new world champion. Spain came in a high favorite and left with the gold cup heading for Madrid. After a surprise defeat in the opening game, Spain went on 6 game winning streak over the likes of Honduras, Chile, Portugal, Paraguay, Germany, and the Dutch. Impressive. They were also a big fan of winning 1-0 with the last four coming in that fashion. They also scored the least number of goals to win a world cup with 8 and only allowed 2(Chile & the Swiss). The team was overall solid and didn't have a major flaw other than maybe not having Torres step up after a poor run of form with injuries. Not only has the title of the team that couldn't win the big one been squashed, but the Spanish look prime for more glory with Puyol, Capdevilla, and Marchena being the only three players on the squad being 30+ years old. This side still has plenty left in the tank and their young reserves only seem to be getting better. It'll be interesting to see how Euro 2012 plays out.

On the other side, you have the Dutch who made the final for the third time and lost again. Their play was deceitful and annoying at times. Howard Webb was not the scapegoat for this game as he was put in awful positions by the players multiple times. I thought he did a fairly decent job with the game. More players should have been thrown off, but it's the final. A 9 on 8 situation doesn't look good for anyone. Van Persie was the most disappointing player not only in the game but through out the world cup. He didn't show a cutting edge that he does at Arsenal and looked lost behind Robben and Sneijder's domination. I still think this team has a lot to offer in the future with the core of their midfield still around and the strikers with plenty of potential. Stekelenburg showed he can play the #1 and the defense can only improve.


Overall, this World Cup was an interesting month. Powers were out before the group stage(France and Italy), a team walked out on the group phase(France) and a coach was not respected by the stars sand sent shitty lineups on the field(RAYMOND DOMENECH). Spain was the best team. Top to bottom, the lineup rules the SPL and ruled the world. Spain was the best league in the world and the best players were the ones that raised the golden trophy at the end of the day. It was a month of fun waking up at 7:30 hoping something would wake me up before the ten o'clock game hit.

With the domestic season right around the corner with friendlies happening around the world, I'd love to see how the high quality players react. They're getting at best a month off from top tier football and with more Euro qualifiers and friendlies due up, there is not much time for rest. I won't be surprised to see more injuries than ever in the first two months of games. It's sad, but teams want/need money and they will put their best players out for attendance benefits only to sacrifice their well being.


Anyways, the blog is just going to be an all around sports thing. I like to just write and what better way than to talk about what I love to watch too. The Red Sox are struggling with a bunch of AAAA players, Man Utd is in America, the B's/C's are in the offseason, and football is about to pick up heavy. Thanks to all who read and best wishes in the future.

Finals and Overview

A month after it began, the World Cup will be leaving us again for four years and return in Brazil. Like Lebron, it breaks hearts to see it end. However, we won't be burning it or writing letters to fans about loyalty. The final [its two countries who have never taken the cup on the final day. The Dutch and Spain have played wonderfully through out the tournament with slightly different paths.

The Dutch have yet to "drop" a point, winning every game with no draws. Since the group stage, they have carried form with from domestic league play with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben dominating. The man everyone is waiting to wake up is Robin van Persie. Who are ya? Who are ya? He could give the Dutch the added advantage over Spain and it's sometimes lacking defense. Their D has been suspect at times, but whose hasn't. Will they get passed around? Will their midfield be able to hold the ball with Spain's possession game? Does a striker wake up and score? It'll be interesting for the Dutch.

On to the Spanish, and their crafty midfield. Torres being left on the bench isn't a surprise because he still looks injured. Pedro looked like a menace against the Germans consistently getting off strikes from midfield. Xavi, Iniesta, and Bisquets will be key for any success. The D has also been far from perfect even though they haven't given up a goal in knockout play. Lots of holes and missed chances from the Germans showed that Spain can be beaten even though they can hold possession for days.

I'm going with the Octopus and picking Spain because they're National Anthem is awesome and they have the best soul patch in the game. I don't expect it to be wildly open with Spain controlling most possession, but should still be entertaining. I'll give my thoughts on the whole world cup tonight. ABC, 2:30. Enjoy. I know I will.

Quarters

Well, this tournament is just fun from this point forward. The majority of top teams are all still in and the best football is ahead.

My predictions(Winners in CAPS):
DUTCH/Brazil
URUGUAY/Ghana
GERMANY/Argentina
SPAIN/Paraguay

I'm more than happy with the fact that Paraguay has equaled the success of my bracket. I love the amount of play that the South American countries provide on the pitch, they have shown they can play so well with the big boys. Germany's dominance over England shows they are more than real in my opinion. Argentina has absolutely that they can win with Maradona leading the charge. Spain, after their initial shock loss to Swiss, has come back to their real form with David Villa being the player of the tournament so far.

I think the knockout round is just one of the best things ever. Teams throw everything on the line, even when there is little hope. And the first game just proved that. Dutch, down 1-0, comes back and wins 2-1. A very, very interesting turn of events. I, personally, have not thought that Brazil had the quality to win a cup this year. It just didn't seem to come together.

US-Ghana Live Updates

Well, the time has come for the knockout round. Claudio Reyna and his knee will not be in this game so no worries for Ghana getting a goal like that. Already, Bob Bradley has gone with Robbie Findley, who imo, is not the man for the job. Gooch out from the back and no Maurice Edu. bob sticks by his guns.

US in the All whites, Ghana in the All reds. Just like 2006. Interesting.... Ghana has played in the all whites for the 3 games previously so this is a change. Winner here has a great shot at the semifinals.

Teams are out and national anthems are being played. Crowd seems pretty pro-US.

US need the first goal. Contrary to Bob Levi, this game will not be wide open. Offense wins games, defense wins championships. Penalties is definitely in the cards.

Game

KICKOFF- Ghana starts with possession.

1' - Ghana are the faster team and show it early getting up the wings.

2'- Good ball by Landon, nobody in the box. Bob bundled up. Welcome to the African winter

4' - Long shot from Ghana, no touch goes wide for a goal kick. Ghana's speed might be the death of the US today. Dempsey puts a good shot on net. Kingson knocks it down.

5- GOALLLLLLLLLLL. Ghana, Disaster start for US. Boateng on a giveaway with Ricardo Clark. Howard should have done better. Shot from 20 beats Howard low near post. Clark was just not a good idea.

7'- Clark is friggin dumb. Bob Bradley really dropped the ball starting him. Edu showed up. Clark doesn't get it.

9'- Well it begins again. US need to come back again to win. Early goals and no possession by the midfield are showing the weakness of the States.

12'- Ghana passing well early. Go right at Cherundolo. Slow and can't get anything done. Mick Jagger and Bill Clinton seeing the stars and stripes struggle early. Altidore goes well wide. Not a good shot but better.

14'- US playing the long ball game, something that they had gotten away from. Now have little possession and Ghana are just working good one touch.

16'- Good ball to Altidore by Dempsey doesn't work out. Better, but still

18' - Cherundolo is embarrasing. Trying to get cute and not doing a damn thing. Yellow, and he's done if they advance. Ghana with a free kick in a dangerous position. Howard punches well.

21'- Well, Ghana still look much much stronger. The US are shaky at the back and Ricardo Clark is struggling.

22'- Foul by Boateng. Free kick to the US near the sideline. Donovan to deliver. Good ball gets headed out.

23' Good move form the US. Bradley left footed cross is gathered by Kingson.

25' - The Midfield just looks awful. No movement. The left/right backs look over matched. Wide Open crosses.

29'- Boateng drives a shot at Howard. Altidore offsides, wasts a pretty good chance. US sub possibly already.

31'- Edu comes in for Ricardo Clark already. Yellow and a turnover that lead to a goal. Shouldn't have been there to begin with. Early sub may be costly later.

34'- Poor cross from Ghana. Clark sheds tears. The American dream is over for him. Just didn't have it

35' - Findley proves again he's not capable up front for the US. Right at the keep. That needs to be buried. That will hurt.

37'- Demerit thrown off. Howard comes up big. Needed that stop earlier. Handball. SLO MO IS COOL.

39' - Donovan's free kick is excellent into the box and headed away. Second ball not so much

41'- THE US HAVE ARRIVED. THAT'S NICE. Still down 1-0.

44' - Bornstein audacious after the corner squirts to him. Robbie Findley is wasteful upfront. He makes good moves but lacks the touch and goal scoring prowess needed the national team

45'- Coming alive more and more. They need a goal quickly after half. Simple as that. Ghana will keep holding the ball with the lack of pressure. Really uneventful with no real goal scoring chances. Long shots by both teams.

HALFTIME

Well, not much from the US early, comes alive after the sub. Bradley messed up and made it much harder for his side to win this game. Clark and Findley don't have it. I won't be surprised to see another change at half for a striker. Jozy is by himself. The midfield need to find it. Anything. Landon with the ball at his feet can do magic. Dempsey is the only one with a set in the first half. The only one playing like if they lose, they goin home. Well, gents, at this rate, they are going home. Ghana is quick and used their one opportunity to take the lead. Pressure, pressure, pressure. Ghana's counter will be the only point in the second half for them. Game time

47'- FEILHABER. CMON. Saved by Kingson, Ghana look shaky, the pressure is building.

54'- Way better second half. Chances are flying in. Donovan with a great ball to the back post but nobody gets there.

55'- Corner to the US. Donovan to deliver. Headed out.

59'- Long ball play needs to stop. Time to commit players up. Counter is starting to come alive.

61'- Half hour and change.

PENALTY TO US. DONOVAN TO TAKE

GOAL 1-1. HOLY POST IT NOTES. STILL GOES IN.

The pressure is going to build. Both side. Jozy will a chance. Good take by Kingson.

68'- This game is alive. Both ends are open.Ghana look to make a sub. Ghana's coach still won't sleep tonight.

70'- US need to settle more. Committing too many up. Don't want to leave them open

73'- Ghana sub. Looked laboring. Ghana don't look threatening. US do.

75'- Ghana pressure rising. Nothing serious tho. Howard needs to make a big play

77- Boateng, the German and goal scorer, down, looking like cramps. And he's off. That's a win for the US.

the US.

78' - Bocanegra with a vital touch. Nobody wants to be the one that makes the mistake.

80'- Game has slowed quite a bit. The US still need more possession.

81'- JOZY! The long ball actually works. He pulls it just wide. Tho. I want a Dempsey jersey, he's getting worked.

84'- Ghana work the ball for possession. But US get it back. Kingson clears, the US starts again.

87'- Heading for extras. The US needs to be very very careful with the amount of balls at the back. Nothing cute, just play solid.

89'- Both teams don't look willing to commit enough for. Gyan goes down after Demerit's boot comes high.

90'- 3 Minutes of extra time. Ghana holding the US at the back. Altidore comes back to grab the ball, Ayew gets booked.

93'- Last kick of regulation time. Corner for Ghana. Ghana gets the touch but were heading for EXTRAS.

GOOD SECOND HALF. CAME TO LIFE UNTIL THE US SCORED THE PENALTY. BRADLEY HAS A SUB LEFT IF HE WANTS TO USE IT.

DONOVAN'S POST IT NOTE PENALTY BROUGHT A FITTING TIE. WELL DESERVED. 2, 15 MINUTE HALVES WITH NO GOLDEN GOAL.

IF WE'RE STILL TIED, WE GO TO PENALTIES. WINNER GETS URUGUAY. GHANA DIDN'T HAVE MUCH TO PUT ON NET IN THE SECOND HALF. THE US HAD

ALL OF THE ATTACK. LET'S PLAY.

EXTRA TIME

Kickoff. Ghana go first. Nice thru ball is too long. Both teams playing long balls.

93'- GOAL. Gyan scores on a great volley. The defense can't handle the long ball. and Howard doesn't come out. 2-1 to Ghana, game on.

95'- Still plenty of time for the US to find one. 25 minutes. They do need to push up tho.

96'- Free kick to the US. Ball falls to Feilhaber. Huge deflection by Ghana for a corner.

98'- Short corner works well. US have a header but it flicks off the head. Out for goal kick. Ghana can hold possession for a while. They gain a corner.

100'- Ghana starts to look European. Flops here and there to kill time. It's tough to see the US doing anything here playing their old style with the long balls.

103'- Everyone looks tired. Ghana isn't looking towards the net at all. Keep away. Time for pressure.

105' Two balls into the box, nothing to show. Nice step over move and the ball gets cleared.

15 MINUTES LEFT. THE US NEEDS A GOAL. PITIFUL DEFENDING AGAIN EARLY AT THE BEGINNING OF A PERIOD. NOTHING ELSE TO REALLY SHOW FOR THE PERIOD.

IF YA START ME, HERE WE GO.

108'- No urgency really from the US. They go home if they don't score, someone should tell them. Free kick just outside the box.

110'- Kingson punches clear, good ball. Still nothing.

111'- Ladies and gents, welcome to European football. The ground looked like it came up and grabbed him.

115'- No real dangerous balls toward the net. Ball deflects back to the goal keeper. Ghana take it down

116'- Everyone forward. Howard launches. Nothing comes of it.

117'- Tick tock goes the clock. Gomez was the burst needed. At the beginning of the game. Bradley wasts possession.

120'- Kingson has been impressive to say the least. Hasn't missed any punches. Been their best player. 3 minutes.

GAME OVER. US prove they can't compete with the big boys. Everyone else and their grandma is beating African teams, but the speed kills the US. Has and always will. At 28, Landon will be 32 by the next world cup, but he needs help in the midfield. Nobody helped tonight. Bradley had probably his worst effort yet and Dempsey had glimpses. But, life will go on. Will be interesting to see the amount of coverage that ESPN provides knowing its workhorse its done.

Knockout Round

Well, Uruguay's Suarez secured their place in the quarterfinals awaiting the winner of the second game of the day between the US and Ghana. Uruguay packed it deep after their first goal and seemed to try and hold on as SK had more chances and finally broke through. A piece of beauty by Suarez on his second goal after wasteful attempts has this team destined for future glory. South America continues to destroy with all five teams qualifying and advancing to the knockout phase.

I'm not surprised by ANY team that qualified. The only question that I have is actually Ghana and Japan. Every other team has the credentials and the ability to win the cup. Still be interesting.

Italy Sucks. Just letting you know if you hadn't figured it out already.

For the US, they need to score first. Badly, Ghana packs it in and will play for 0-0. They are extremely wasteful in front of net, and find scoring hard to come by only scoring 2 penalties, this team has yet to score in play. I look for the US midfield to be the key point in this game. US need Donovan(obviously) and Bradley to have great games, not good. Check the live blog for more details.

1/1 so far picking Uruguay. Going with the US today. Win or go home.

Second and Third Day

Well, round two of games is over and there is plenty left to be decided.

We know that Uruguay will play South Korea and a tasty Argentina/ Mexico re-match from '06 awaits. But let me just say, Raymond Domenech might be my favorite coach. He looked so pathetic and worthless on the sidelines, I couldn't help myself. He took off 6 players because of the weekend's fiasco with Anelka, and watch in disbelief as South Africa went two goals up before the break. They did manage a goal, Malouda is their best friggin player(started once), and are now heading home. Henry unfortunately did not get the proper send off and didn't even get a start. Give him a chance atleast. Anyways, Uruguay doesn't surprise most soccer fans due to the dominance South America is proving over everyone. 7 points, 3 clear, and add on Argentina, South America has a chance of qualifying all 5 teams, as well on top of their groups. THAT'S INSANE.

So Wednesday will bring out what Americans hope to be a victory over Algeria and a date in the second round. England needs victory. Then, if that happens. The real fun begins. US is ahead on goal differential and would need to keep it. Or maybe not. If they finish first, the afternoon gets more and more interesting. Winner of C vs 2nd of D. Did someone say Germany? Anyways, there are numerous situations for things to occur all day. A MUST WATCH FOR ANY SOCCER FAN. Even Raymond Domenech can kick back with a brew in hand and watch as a fan. Oh wait, he's been a fan not a coach for the past 4 years anyways.

After that, the Netherlands, Brazil and virtually Portugal have punched tickets. Group H is in the air and Spain could be in trouble. Chile has proved it can play. Swiss get a victory over Honduras and the possibility of a team with 6 points going home is absolutely possible.

Well folks, short and sweet. Tuesday was just fun as the games, results, and advancements literally went down to the final kick. Group C at 10 and D at 2:30 should make for an interesting day. Can the US finally get it done or England not be pansies? What about Germany? A draw and a Serbian win means they go home! Ohhhhhhhhh goodies await. This is why the World Cup is the best event every four years.

England-Algeria Live Blog

Well, the US just got lucky. Sorry to say, but a point was extremely lucky with the lackluster effort put forth in the first half. Biggest game in US soccer history to say the least and they give up another early goal, plus a second. That just can't happen. Knowing a win puts you in the driver seat and you don't need any help to get through, the US just needed to play better in the first half. They had nothing to offer up front, barely any possession, and looked afraid.

Second half, however, it was just a different team. LanDo showed up as a captain, scored, set up the other, and provided the cross on the disallowed goal. He showed his stripes. The US problem has never had a problem defending, just goal scoring. It's scaring to think that the defending hasn't been doing its job and the strikers are failing up front to produce. All three US goals have come from Midfield(Dempsey, Lando, Bradley) and that needs to just change. Jozy has played decent. At best. Sweet, he headed the pass. He needs to produce. The best thing that happened to the US was Findley's second yellow forcing him out of the game against Algeria. Gomez or Buddle will provide the added thunder needed. Don't be surprised by that. Findley is fast, but the MLS DOESN'T WORK for players like Findley. Buddle is owning the lead so why not have a go from the start.

Anyways, may different ways to advance. I'm just going from memory, but these are the possible ways to get thru before England/Algeria match.

Draw:

Slov:4

US:2

Eng:2

Alg:1

US gets thru by: Win over Algeria, No other help needed

Draw, English Draw, Needs to score more goals than England total.

England win

Slov:4

Eng:4

US:2

Alg:1

US gets thru:

Win over Algeria, England or Slovenia win, England/Slovenia draw, US has goal differential >1(Currently 0)

Algeria Win

Slov:4

Alg:3

US:2

Eng:1

US get thru:

Win over Algeria, no help needed

ENGLAND-ALGERIA

James in net for Green with Heskey still up top. Barry returns for England and puts Gerrard on the left. Should be interesting. Rooney needs to come alive. England in the all whites, Algeria in the row up green, white stripes, not the band.

1'-Algeria's chances will be few and far between. England needs to just dominate this game as they are expected too.

4'- The "chip" of the keep,almost works. Algeria keep struggling horribly early, terrible clearance, good move through on a break.

7'- Algeria finding holes in the England D, first corner of the game. Equates to major fail. oh hello Algeria

10'- Boring start, nothing to talk about. No chance no real moves, Goal kick off Heskey. He sucks.

12'- England Corner after a weak sauce clearance by James and Johnson. Set piece might save England. Heskey climbs on a back. Ya just can't do that Emile.

14'- Takedown on Heskey. England gives the ball away anyways.

15'- Wasteful shot in the midfield after Lennon makes a good run. Gerrard looks to knock it through the uprights.

19'- England look like shit.

23'- I don't know what's going on. I'm speechless. As a fan of England, this is embarrassing.

25' - Nutmeg by Lennon, gains a Free Kick. Taken kick, Barry wastes a cross.

27'- Scrappy play just outside of the box. Comes to nothing, no shots, nothing. Heskey, handball. This guy really sucks. It's time for Capello to wake up.

30'- Finally, some life, Gerrard puts a shot on net, nothing hard, but something to wake up the crowd and Algeria D.

31' Another good move. Something is alive. Lampard is wasteful on a pass on the top for Rooney.

33'- Good cross from Lennon falls to Gerrard at the dot. On his weaker foot he fires and a good save by the Algerian keep.

35'- Game opening up. Much more open space and more runs. Algeria on the counter has looked dangerous.

39'- Barry shot from outside, nothing special straight at the keep. Disappointing. US fans rejoice.

43'- Rooney puts a shot on the keep. Dips and swerves. Yippie. Not, Gross.

45'- Minute of added time. I'm pissed.

FIRST HALF OVER- THIS GAME SUCKS. ENGLAND HAS OFFERED NOTHING. NO CLEAR CUT CHANCES, ONLY SHOTS FROM OVER 20 YARDS OUT. NO REAL MOVES ON THE WINGS ONLINE THROUGH THE MIDDLE. COLE HAS BARELY MADE A MOVE UP THE LEFT. GERRARD AND LAMPARD HAVE OFFERED VERY LITTLE. ON THE OTHER SIDE, ALGERIA LOOKS SOMEWHAT STRONG ON THE COUNTER, DEFENSE SHAKY. SHOULD BE INTERESTING SECOND HALF TO SAY THE LEAST. OR COULD BE BORING.

Second Half

47'-Free kick to Algeria, oh boy, Calamity James. Hits the wall, thank god. Johnson has been getting worked on the right side by Ziani. Interesting matchup

51'- Well Algeria has come out the better side so far. England offered nothing. BIG result if England do not get the 3 full points.

52'- Heskey extremely wasteful. Cmon Capello make the right move. Johnson loses the ball on the right, gets bailed out by a free kick call.

55'- Gerrard blows England's best chance. Feeds it across when they have numbers.

57'- Roo loses control. England are offering nothing on net.

59'- Awful call on Caragher. Gets a yellow, out for Slovenia.

61'- Corner to England, Gerrard to take. Keeper drops, but picks it up and nothing comes about.

62' - The slightest of touches keeps Rooney off the scoresheet. Wright-Phillips on. I'm turning into a waterfall of tears. Lennon has been good for England. Cole is what is needed. 27 minutes for something to come about

66'- Wright-Phillips makes a play! Free kick, falls to Terry, cleared out. England turning it up.

70'- Heskey gets in the box and his cross is not good. Shot on net is needed.

73'- Roon is wide on another long range drive. DEFOEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE is coming on HESKEY OFF. HEY HEY!

75'- Defoe already involved, swept away for a corner that turns to nothing. 15 minutes to another horror show.

77'- Corner to England again. Something needs to happen. Another bad cross, and a slip. Goal kick. Capello doesn't know what to do. and neither do I.

82'- Crushed. England don't care. A draw isn't the worse thing for England, or the US. Still wasteful. Shaun Wright-Phillips is the worst.

84'- Crouch on for Barry. Who knows.

86'- Corner to England. No real good crosses yet. Defoe gets a touch.

88'- Well the situations are opening up for an interesting final day in Group C. A day of draws will have the US over England!

90'- 3 minutes added time. Defoe rips. Wide

Whistle about to blow... England gains a corner. It's over.0-0. Miserable