Pathetic! Ridiculious! Imperfect! Embarassing! These are just many of the words I have heard that people have said about the Detroit Lions. 0-16, is pathetic, and is most definitely embarrassing. They fired Coach Rod Marinelli but is that really going to help? Probably not. Also Coach Romeo Crennel was also shown the door by the Cleveland Browns. However to me the biggest shocker is that Eric Mangini was fired by the New York Jets for an unknown reason but I think it had something to do with Brett Favre complaining about him to the media. Favre really should have never came out of retirement. But he did and he did enough to make Green Bay look bad for the way they treated him. My Carolina Panthers won a close game against the Saints to get the bye and second seed for the playoffs. The playoffs are shaping up to be very interesting.
Speaking of the playoffs here are the match ups this week:
Colts at the Chargers
Ravens at the Dolphins
Falcons at the Cardinals
Eagles at the Vikings
AFC Byes: Titans, Steelers
NFC Byes: Giants, Panthers
All of these games are intriguing matchups, and to me it would be fun to see one of these teams go to the Super Bowl. It's going to be hard getting past the teams that are ranked number 1 and 2. I cannot wait to watch me some football this weekend. Until then God Bless and Happy New Years.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Thoughts on UFC 92
Last night at UFC 92, it was a night of upsets and brutal knockouts. First I'd like to sat the Cheick Kongo is one bad dude and a beast. He is a credible heavyweight that could so some serious damage and contend for the heavyweight title. I see him getting a title shot in 2009.
I was really impressed with CB Dalloway of Mike Massenzio. CB definitely has a future in MMA and I see him doing some big things in the couple of years.
Now on the fun part of UFC 92. "Rampage" Jackson and Wanderlei Silva had their third encounter. And let me tell you something, these two legitmately hate each other. They actually had a scuffle at the weigh-in because of the bad blood and the trash talking between the two of them. If you know anything about their first two fights, you would know that "The Axe Murderer" destroyed "Rampage" in Pride-FC, but that was in Pride-FC. This is UFC and it's just a little bit different in terms of surroundings. Even though I did pick Silva I did state awhile back that that Quinton needed to redeem himself after his lost to Forrest Griffin for the UFC Light Heavyweight Title and the minor legal troubles he had. Virtually no one gave Quinton a chance but it was great to see him win against a credible and great fighter like Silva. Also did you notice the look of disgust on Chuck Liddell's face when Rampage one. He didn't looked impressed.
Then as a famous unknown person once said, "I hate to say I told you so, but I told you so." You talk about not giving no once a chance. Everyone thought that Antonio Nogueira would destroy Frank Mir, and be the savior to take down the hated UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar. What most people need to understand is Frank Mir never lost the title. He was in a motorcycle accident that no one ever thought he'd come back from. So in my personal opinion Frank Mir is a walking miracle. I also think Mir is out to prove that his win against Lesnar, in Lesnars first fight wasn't a fluke. I have some bad news for Mir, because he's not fighting the same Brock Lesnar as before. Lesnar now has more training under his belt and he will make sure he doesn't lose to Mir twice. All I can say is I was laughing the whole way home knowning Nogueira got beat and disappointed everyone. Nogueira is a great fighter but Mir wanted it more. Now I cannot wait until Frank Mir and Brock Lesnar fight for the Undisputed UFC Heavyweight Title.
In the main event, UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Forrest Griffin defended his title against the undefeated Rashad Evans. I had mixed feelings about this fight because Forrest Griffin is one of my favorite fighters, if not my fighter. However Rashad Evans started his MMA training with UFC Hall of Famer Dan Severn, a guy I have met, admire, and respect. So was I disappointed when Forrest lost? No because it was a great fight and Forrest did his best trying to get out of Rashads strikes. Rashad will make a great champion and I know we haven't seen the last of Forrest Griffin.
UFC 92 was great because they did more to make the PPV go a little bit longer. I still would never buy a UFC PPV because you never know what you're going to get. I really enjoyed watching UFC 92 and look foward to the next big event.
Readers Note: The reason their are two UFC Heavyweight Titles was due to Randy Coutures legal problems with Dana White and UFC. So they Nogueira and Sylvia fight to determine the new interim Heavyweight champion. However Couture came back and lost the title to Lesnar.
I was really impressed with CB Dalloway of Mike Massenzio. CB definitely has a future in MMA and I see him doing some big things in the couple of years.
Now on the fun part of UFC 92. "Rampage" Jackson and Wanderlei Silva had their third encounter. And let me tell you something, these two legitmately hate each other. They actually had a scuffle at the weigh-in because of the bad blood and the trash talking between the two of them. If you know anything about their first two fights, you would know that "The Axe Murderer" destroyed "Rampage" in Pride-FC, but that was in Pride-FC. This is UFC and it's just a little bit different in terms of surroundings. Even though I did pick Silva I did state awhile back that that Quinton needed to redeem himself after his lost to Forrest Griffin for the UFC Light Heavyweight Title and the minor legal troubles he had. Virtually no one gave Quinton a chance but it was great to see him win against a credible and great fighter like Silva. Also did you notice the look of disgust on Chuck Liddell's face when Rampage one. He didn't looked impressed.
Then as a famous unknown person once said, "I hate to say I told you so, but I told you so." You talk about not giving no once a chance. Everyone thought that Antonio Nogueira would destroy Frank Mir, and be the savior to take down the hated UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar. What most people need to understand is Frank Mir never lost the title. He was in a motorcycle accident that no one ever thought he'd come back from. So in my personal opinion Frank Mir is a walking miracle. I also think Mir is out to prove that his win against Lesnar, in Lesnars first fight wasn't a fluke. I have some bad news for Mir, because he's not fighting the same Brock Lesnar as before. Lesnar now has more training under his belt and he will make sure he doesn't lose to Mir twice. All I can say is I was laughing the whole way home knowning Nogueira got beat and disappointed everyone. Nogueira is a great fighter but Mir wanted it more. Now I cannot wait until Frank Mir and Brock Lesnar fight for the Undisputed UFC Heavyweight Title.
In the main event, UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Forrest Griffin defended his title against the undefeated Rashad Evans. I had mixed feelings about this fight because Forrest Griffin is one of my favorite fighters, if not my fighter. However Rashad Evans started his MMA training with UFC Hall of Famer Dan Severn, a guy I have met, admire, and respect. So was I disappointed when Forrest lost? No because it was a great fight and Forrest did his best trying to get out of Rashads strikes. Rashad will make a great champion and I know we haven't seen the last of Forrest Griffin.
UFC 92 was great because they did more to make the PPV go a little bit longer. I still would never buy a UFC PPV because you never know what you're going to get. I really enjoyed watching UFC 92 and look foward to the next big event.
Readers Note: The reason their are two UFC Heavyweight Titles was due to Randy Coutures legal problems with Dana White and UFC. So they Nogueira and Sylvia fight to determine the new interim Heavyweight champion. However Couture came back and lost the title to Lesnar.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Looking back on Sports and Pro Wrestling in 2008
With 2008 coming to a close I’d like to look back on some of the moments in sports and wrestling that really captured my attention and had a lot of significance. Let’s begin with the Super Bowl and the upset of the century. The Patriots went 16-0 in the regular season and made it to the Super Bowl against the underdog New York Giants who no one really gave a chance to win. The Giants, led by Eli Manning won the Super Bowl and rightfully became the best team in football.
A few months later at Wrestlemania 24, the greatest pro wrestler in the history of wrestling retired following his last match with Shawn Michaels. Ric Flair was in pro wrestling for thirty plus years and was the very best. He is a 16 time World Champion and had more class then anyone I ever saw in the Wrestling business. He is definitely a Legend and an Icon. He will always be remembered as the greatest that ever lived.
At the NBA All-Star game this year, we saw Dwight Howard become superman in the Slam-Dunk Contest and put on a performance of a lifetime. I think he might be the biggest guy to ever win the Dunk Contest. It was a great year for him. It was also a great year for Celtics and Lakers fans that got to witness the rebirth of the greatest rivalry in basketball history. The Celtics won the NBA Finals beating the Lakers 4-2, but the sparks re-ignited the fire in both teams.
The thing that really captured my attention was the Summer Olympics. Michael Phelps won eight Gold Medals and became the worlds, or at least America’s greatest athlete. He put swimming on the map for younger kids to get into and made swimming a very respectable sport. Also in the Olympics, the USA Men’s Basketball team brought dominance back into the Olympics and redeemed themselves and the NBA. I’ve always said that Coach K, of Duke should be an NBA coach. He managed all those egos and turned them into a TEAM. He turned them into A TEAM of Superstars instead of one superstar getting the glory. I was proud to watch them bring home the gold for the USA.
Now my personal favorite thing in sports was Brock Lesnar coming to the UFC. There was so much hype, anticipation and hatred because he was a former WWE Wrestler and champion there. What most people don’t know is he was an amateur wrestler for 18 years compared to the four years he was pro. He came in and lost Frank Mir on a fluke. He came back a few months later and dominated Heath Herring. Then in November he defeated Randy Couture to become UFC Heavyweight Champion. The fans of the UFC have never become more vocal or outraged. Brock is hated but it makes for good TV. I am glad he is in the UFC, and I am glad he’s bringing something that no one else brings.
In 2008, there were also some miraculous things that happened in sports. The first thing that comes to mind is Tiger Woods winning the US Open on one bad knee and going head to head in an 18 hole playoff with Rocco Mediate. I never got excited about Golf until that very moment. They had a classic battle that will stand the test of time. I really hope Tiger comes back he will bring us more moments like that and have more classic battles with Rocco and others.
The City of Philadelphia got a miracle this fall when the Phillies won the World Series by beat the Tampa Bay Rays. Yes I said it the Tampa Bay Rays had a miracle year two. They had 10 losing seasons from the time they became a franchise. This year they had their first winning season, made their first playoff and made it all the way to the World Series. It was great to see two small market teams make knock off all the big market teams like Los Angeles, New York and Boston.
Some not so great stuff happened in 2008, like Raiders owner Al Davis’s personal attack on Lane Kiffin after he fired him. Also Roger Clemens was also proven to be a cheat and liar and ruined his chances of becoming a Hall of Famer. Also the Detroit Lions put themselves in position to be in 0-16 in one season. We’ll find out this Sunday if it happens. Also, something that I hated was when Floyd Mayweather fought the Big Show at Wrestlemania 24 and it was the biggest joke pro wrestling fans had ever seen. Also Plaxico Burress shot himself in the leg at a night club and may have jeopardized his career with Giants.
Some things that personally made me happy, was the Red Wings winning the Stanley Cup and once reclaiming their dominance in the NHL. I don’t follow hockey much but when the Red Wings play I watch. I was extremely happy to see Forrest Griffin become UFC Light Heavyweight Championship from Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. Forrest became a favorite of mine during the first season of the Ultimate Fighter and his fight with Stephan Bonner a few years back is still my favorite UFC fight ever. I also thought it was great to see the Hardy Boys, when World Championships individually. Matt Hardy, who I met in May, became ECW Champion, and Jeff Hardy became WWE Champion cementing themselves as the greatest brother tag team in pro wrestling history. I was also happy to see OJ Simpson being found guilty of something he did. He doesn’t mean much to sports anymore but he rightfully got what he deserved. I was also happy to see Samoa Joe become TNA Heavyweight Champion. He’s one of the best wrestlers out there and deserves all the success he gets. I was really happy to see young guys like Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, and Ted Dibiase Jr. get pushed harder and win titles. I love watching second and third generation wrestlers to see if they are good as their dads or granddads. Finally, it was good to see WWE go back to Iraq for the 6th year in a row for Tribute to the Troops.
Some things that shocked me are when Allen Iverson was traded to the Pistons for Chauncey Billups who ended up in Denver. I think that shocked everyone in Detroit. It certainly shocked me. The other thing that shocked me this year is the run by Tennessee Titans without their star Quarterback Vince Young. Kerry Collins took the reigns and has led the Titans to a great run and possibly a Super Bowl. That’s a shocking but great story that will be remembered if the Titans win the Super Bowl. Also Mick Foley left WWE to become apart of TNA Wrestling. It was a huge swing in the balance of power. TNA keeps building themselves as credible pro wrestling organization that eventually can be on the same level as WWE. Another shocker is Alex Rodriguez’s affair with Madonna which led to some big divorces and lots of money for their spouses. One word describes all these moments…WOW!!!
This year in sports has been a good one. Jimmy Johnson made history by winning three consecutive NASCAR Championships, being only the second driver to do so. The Yankees have built themselves an All-Star team with Sabathia, Burnett, and Teixeira. I look forward to this coming year. We sports fans have a lot to be excited about in 2009. This year has provided us with some great memories and I am sure 2009 will provided us with some more great memories as well.
A few months later at Wrestlemania 24, the greatest pro wrestler in the history of wrestling retired following his last match with Shawn Michaels. Ric Flair was in pro wrestling for thirty plus years and was the very best. He is a 16 time World Champion and had more class then anyone I ever saw in the Wrestling business. He is definitely a Legend and an Icon. He will always be remembered as the greatest that ever lived.
At the NBA All-Star game this year, we saw Dwight Howard become superman in the Slam-Dunk Contest and put on a performance of a lifetime. I think he might be the biggest guy to ever win the Dunk Contest. It was a great year for him. It was also a great year for Celtics and Lakers fans that got to witness the rebirth of the greatest rivalry in basketball history. The Celtics won the NBA Finals beating the Lakers 4-2, but the sparks re-ignited the fire in both teams.
The thing that really captured my attention was the Summer Olympics. Michael Phelps won eight Gold Medals and became the worlds, or at least America’s greatest athlete. He put swimming on the map for younger kids to get into and made swimming a very respectable sport. Also in the Olympics, the USA Men’s Basketball team brought dominance back into the Olympics and redeemed themselves and the NBA. I’ve always said that Coach K, of Duke should be an NBA coach. He managed all those egos and turned them into a TEAM. He turned them into A TEAM of Superstars instead of one superstar getting the glory. I was proud to watch them bring home the gold for the USA.
Now my personal favorite thing in sports was Brock Lesnar coming to the UFC. There was so much hype, anticipation and hatred because he was a former WWE Wrestler and champion there. What most people don’t know is he was an amateur wrestler for 18 years compared to the four years he was pro. He came in and lost Frank Mir on a fluke. He came back a few months later and dominated Heath Herring. Then in November he defeated Randy Couture to become UFC Heavyweight Champion. The fans of the UFC have never become more vocal or outraged. Brock is hated but it makes for good TV. I am glad he is in the UFC, and I am glad he’s bringing something that no one else brings.
In 2008, there were also some miraculous things that happened in sports. The first thing that comes to mind is Tiger Woods winning the US Open on one bad knee and going head to head in an 18 hole playoff with Rocco Mediate. I never got excited about Golf until that very moment. They had a classic battle that will stand the test of time. I really hope Tiger comes back he will bring us more moments like that and have more classic battles with Rocco and others.
The City of Philadelphia got a miracle this fall when the Phillies won the World Series by beat the Tampa Bay Rays. Yes I said it the Tampa Bay Rays had a miracle year two. They had 10 losing seasons from the time they became a franchise. This year they had their first winning season, made their first playoff and made it all the way to the World Series. It was great to see two small market teams make knock off all the big market teams like Los Angeles, New York and Boston.
Some not so great stuff happened in 2008, like Raiders owner Al Davis’s personal attack on Lane Kiffin after he fired him. Also Roger Clemens was also proven to be a cheat and liar and ruined his chances of becoming a Hall of Famer. Also the Detroit Lions put themselves in position to be in 0-16 in one season. We’ll find out this Sunday if it happens. Also, something that I hated was when Floyd Mayweather fought the Big Show at Wrestlemania 24 and it was the biggest joke pro wrestling fans had ever seen. Also Plaxico Burress shot himself in the leg at a night club and may have jeopardized his career with Giants.
Some things that personally made me happy, was the Red Wings winning the Stanley Cup and once reclaiming their dominance in the NHL. I don’t follow hockey much but when the Red Wings play I watch. I was extremely happy to see Forrest Griffin become UFC Light Heavyweight Championship from Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. Forrest became a favorite of mine during the first season of the Ultimate Fighter and his fight with Stephan Bonner a few years back is still my favorite UFC fight ever. I also thought it was great to see the Hardy Boys, when World Championships individually. Matt Hardy, who I met in May, became ECW Champion, and Jeff Hardy became WWE Champion cementing themselves as the greatest brother tag team in pro wrestling history. I was also happy to see OJ Simpson being found guilty of something he did. He doesn’t mean much to sports anymore but he rightfully got what he deserved. I was also happy to see Samoa Joe become TNA Heavyweight Champion. He’s one of the best wrestlers out there and deserves all the success he gets. I was really happy to see young guys like Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Kofi Kingston, and Ted Dibiase Jr. get pushed harder and win titles. I love watching second and third generation wrestlers to see if they are good as their dads or granddads. Finally, it was good to see WWE go back to Iraq for the 6th year in a row for Tribute to the Troops.
Some things that shocked me are when Allen Iverson was traded to the Pistons for Chauncey Billups who ended up in Denver. I think that shocked everyone in Detroit. It certainly shocked me. The other thing that shocked me this year is the run by Tennessee Titans without their star Quarterback Vince Young. Kerry Collins took the reigns and has led the Titans to a great run and possibly a Super Bowl. That’s a shocking but great story that will be remembered if the Titans win the Super Bowl. Also Mick Foley left WWE to become apart of TNA Wrestling. It was a huge swing in the balance of power. TNA keeps building themselves as credible pro wrestling organization that eventually can be on the same level as WWE. Another shocker is Alex Rodriguez’s affair with Madonna which led to some big divorces and lots of money for their spouses. One word describes all these moments…WOW!!!
This year in sports has been a good one. Jimmy Johnson made history by winning three consecutive NASCAR Championships, being only the second driver to do so. The Yankees have built themselves an All-Star team with Sabathia, Burnett, and Teixeira. I look forward to this coming year. We sports fans have a lot to be excited about in 2009. This year has provided us with some great memories and I am sure 2009 will provided us with some more great memories as well.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
NFL Week 16 Recap, and playoff scenarios
Well this past weekend of NFL games was certainly dramatic. The Jets lost to the Seattle Seahawks in dramatic fashion. The Eagles lost to the Redskins in a last second play, and the Chargers put themselves in Playoff contention. The Bears held on to keep their playoff hopes alive. Now to the game that met the most to me personally and thats the Giants-Panthers game on Sunday Night. Carolina looked great the first half and Deangelo Williams looked great. It was the second half where they let the game get away. With about a minute left they had a huge run but it was negated by Steve Smith's holding call. To me, thats what cost them the game because and what gave the Giant momentum. I'll give the Giants credit, they came back after two tough weeks and a lot off field drama. However, they will not be going back to Super Bowl. I believe It will be Tennesee against one of the NFC South Teams. The Panthers, Falcons or if they make it, the Buccanneers. The NFC South is the toughest division in football, not the East. This last week should be great and here are the scenarios going in:
NFC
CLINCHED: New York Giants, NFC East, first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs; Arizona, NFC West; Carolina, playoff berth; Atlanta, playoff berth.
ELIMINATED: Detroit, St. Louis, San Francisco, Seattle, Green Bay, New Orleans, Washington
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons clinch the NFC South title and a first-round bye with an Atlanta win and a Carolina loss.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers clinch the NFC South title and a first-round bye with a Carolina win or tie OR Atlanta loss or tie.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers clinch a wild-card spot with a Tampa Bay win and Dallas loss or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas loss and Minnesota loss or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas loss and Chicago loss or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas tie and Minnesota tie and Chicago win or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas tie and Chicago tie and Minnesota win or tie.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings clinch the NFC North title with a Minnesota win OR Minnesota tie and Chicago loss or tie OR Chicago loss. The Vikings clinch a wild-card spot with a Minnesota tie and Dallas loss and Tampa Bay loss.
Chicago Bears
The Bears clinch the NFC North with a Chicago win and Minnesota loss or tie OR Chicago tie and Minnesota loss. The Bears clinch a wild-card spot with a Chicago win and Dallas loss or tie and Tampa Bay loss or tie OR Chicago tie and Dallas loss and Tampa Bay loss.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys clinch a wild-card spot with a Dallas win OR Dallas tie and Chicago loss or tie and Tampa Bay loss OR Dallas tie and Minnesota loss or tie and Tampa Bay loss OR Dallas tie and Chicago loss and Tampa Bay tie OR Dallas tie and Minnesota loss and Tampa Bay tie.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles clinch a wild-card spot with a Philadelphia win and Tampa Bay loss and Minnesota loss OR Philadelphia win and Tampa Bay loss and Chicago loss.
AFC
CLINCHED: Tennessee, AFC South, first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout playoffs; Pittsburgh, AFC North and first-round bye; Indianapolis, wild card and No. 5 seeding
ELIMINATED: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Houston, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Oakland, Buffalo
Denver Broncos
The Broncos clinch the AFC West title with a win or tie against San Diego.
San Diego Chargers
The Chargers clinch the AFC West title with a win over Denver.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens clinch a wild-card spot with a Baltimore win OR Baltimore tie and Miami loss or tie OR Baltimore tie and New England loss or tie OR New England loss.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins clinch the AFC East title with a Miami win OR Miami tie and New England loss or tie. The Dolphins clinch a wild-card spot with a Miami tie and Baltimore loss.
New England Patriots
The Patriots clinch the AFC East title with a New England win and Miami loss or tie OR New England tie and Miami loss. The Patriots clinch a wild-card spot with a New England win and Baltimore loss or tie OR New England tie and Baltimore loss.
New York Jets
The Jets clinch the AFC East title with a Jets win and New England loss. The Jets clinch a wild-card spot with a Jets win and Baltimore loss.
Playoff dates
Jan. 3, 2009: AFC, NFC wild-card games (NBC)
Jan. 4, 2009: AFC wild-card game (CBS); NFC wild-card game (FOX)
Jan. 10, 2009: AFC divisional playoff game (CBS); NFC divisional playoff game (FOX)
Jan. 11, 2009: AFC divisional playoff game (CBS); NFC divisional playoff game (FOX)
Jan. 18, 2009: AFC Championship Game (CBS); NFC Championship Game (FOX)
Feb. 1: Super Bowl XLIII at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla. (NBC)
So there you have it, a lot to look foward to this week. I really hope the Panthers can win and keep their bye week. Two devestating losses in a row could really hurt them going into the playoffs. Week 17 should be great to watch. A lot of drama and exciting action this week. By the way LIONS 0-16 and history will be made. This will be the only time I ever cheer for the Packers. Have a good Christmas everyone and if I don't post again, Happy New Years. God Bless and Be safe
NFC
CLINCHED: New York Giants, NFC East, first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs; Arizona, NFC West; Carolina, playoff berth; Atlanta, playoff berth.
ELIMINATED: Detroit, St. Louis, San Francisco, Seattle, Green Bay, New Orleans, Washington
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons clinch the NFC South title and a first-round bye with an Atlanta win and a Carolina loss.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers clinch the NFC South title and a first-round bye with a Carolina win or tie OR Atlanta loss or tie.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers clinch a wild-card spot with a Tampa Bay win and Dallas loss or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas loss and Minnesota loss or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas loss and Chicago loss or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas tie and Minnesota tie and Chicago win or tie OR Tampa Bay tie and Dallas tie and Chicago tie and Minnesota win or tie.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings clinch the NFC North title with a Minnesota win OR Minnesota tie and Chicago loss or tie OR Chicago loss. The Vikings clinch a wild-card spot with a Minnesota tie and Dallas loss and Tampa Bay loss.
Chicago Bears
The Bears clinch the NFC North with a Chicago win and Minnesota loss or tie OR Chicago tie and Minnesota loss. The Bears clinch a wild-card spot with a Chicago win and Dallas loss or tie and Tampa Bay loss or tie OR Chicago tie and Dallas loss and Tampa Bay loss.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys clinch a wild-card spot with a Dallas win OR Dallas tie and Chicago loss or tie and Tampa Bay loss OR Dallas tie and Minnesota loss or tie and Tampa Bay loss OR Dallas tie and Chicago loss and Tampa Bay tie OR Dallas tie and Minnesota loss and Tampa Bay tie.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles clinch a wild-card spot with a Philadelphia win and Tampa Bay loss and Minnesota loss OR Philadelphia win and Tampa Bay loss and Chicago loss.
AFC
CLINCHED: Tennessee, AFC South, first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout playoffs; Pittsburgh, AFC North and first-round bye; Indianapolis, wild card and No. 5 seeding
ELIMINATED: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Houston, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Oakland, Buffalo
Denver Broncos
The Broncos clinch the AFC West title with a win or tie against San Diego.
San Diego Chargers
The Chargers clinch the AFC West title with a win over Denver.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens clinch a wild-card spot with a Baltimore win OR Baltimore tie and Miami loss or tie OR Baltimore tie and New England loss or tie OR New England loss.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins clinch the AFC East title with a Miami win OR Miami tie and New England loss or tie. The Dolphins clinch a wild-card spot with a Miami tie and Baltimore loss.
New England Patriots
The Patriots clinch the AFC East title with a New England win and Miami loss or tie OR New England tie and Miami loss. The Patriots clinch a wild-card spot with a New England win and Baltimore loss or tie OR New England tie and Baltimore loss.
New York Jets
The Jets clinch the AFC East title with a Jets win and New England loss. The Jets clinch a wild-card spot with a Jets win and Baltimore loss.
Playoff dates
Jan. 3, 2009: AFC, NFC wild-card games (NBC)
Jan. 4, 2009: AFC wild-card game (CBS); NFC wild-card game (FOX)
Jan. 10, 2009: AFC divisional playoff game (CBS); NFC divisional playoff game (FOX)
Jan. 11, 2009: AFC divisional playoff game (CBS); NFC divisional playoff game (FOX)
Jan. 18, 2009: AFC Championship Game (CBS); NFC Championship Game (FOX)
Feb. 1: Super Bowl XLIII at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla. (NBC)
So there you have it, a lot to look foward to this week. I really hope the Panthers can win and keep their bye week. Two devestating losses in a row could really hurt them going into the playoffs. Week 17 should be great to watch. A lot of drama and exciting action this week. By the way LIONS 0-16 and history will be made. This will be the only time I ever cheer for the Packers. Have a good Christmas everyone and if I don't post again, Happy New Years. God Bless and Be safe
Monday, December 22, 2008
Is the NBA Season Already Over?
Now the season is only 30 games in, but one has to wonder, will it be the Celtics vs. Lakers in the NBA Finals again? The answer is most positively yes. There is really no one that can contend with these two teams. Cleveland has Lebron but doesn't have anything else. The Magic have a young and up and coming team but really don't have any veterans. Then you have the Pistons. They are not even considered a contender now since the trade for Iverson.
On the West side of things, Denvers looks great and that's about it, I see the Lakers easing into the Finals this year. I honestly think it will be a rematch of last year, that goes seven games. They are the two most storied franchises in the league. Laker-Celtics makes money for the NBA because those are the two old powerhouses who have had the longest running feud in the league. Both of these teams get more media coverage, the most hype and right now the most dominant. A lot of people hope their teams win their championships every year but I think its going to be Laker-Celtics dominating for a long time to come. I actually hope another team comes around and knocks them off, but I doubt it will be this year. Well until next time, Merry Christmas and God Bless.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Pacquiao vs. Mayweather: Why it needs to happen
Recently I've been hearing that Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. might be fighting. They are trying to pull Mayweather out of his supposed retirement to get him to fight Manny. I honestly would love to see this fight happen because someone needs to shut up Floyd Mayweather up. He is the cockiest person in the sports world I think I have ever seen or heard. Both have beaten Hatton and De La Hoya and both are fast as hell. The only difference is when Pacquiao fought Oscar, he made it look more convincing then Mayweather did. Also the judges have won some of Mayweathers fights for him.
It's pretty bad that most of the people from your hometown and surrounding areas don't like you. I am a Grand Rapids native and I can't stand Mayweather. A lot of my hatred of him comes from being a wrestling fan. When he fought at Wrestlemania 24 against a guy who could literally kill him if he wanted to, was just absolutely ridiculious. Most people don't know this, but the Big Show actaully had trained for boxing the year he was off from wrestling leading up to the Mayweather fight. Mayweather went in there and made a joke out of pro wrestling. I've always said that Wrestlemania 24 had nine matches, and eight of them were good. You can guess which one I think sucked? A lot of other wrestling fans share my opionions as well.
I think at this point, Pacquiao might be the only guy that can beat Mayweather. I'll give Mayweather his due, because he has beaten every challanger put infront of him. However he is no longer pound for pound the greatest fighter in the world. That title belongs to Pacquiao or someone in the UFC who is much more deserving. Come out, come out where ever you are Floyd because Manny is waiting for you. Only time will tell if Floyd has the guts to take on someone his equal. Until then we will just have to hear about it.
It's pretty bad that most of the people from your hometown and surrounding areas don't like you. I am a Grand Rapids native and I can't stand Mayweather. A lot of my hatred of him comes from being a wrestling fan. When he fought at Wrestlemania 24 against a guy who could literally kill him if he wanted to, was just absolutely ridiculious. Most people don't know this, but the Big Show actaully had trained for boxing the year he was off from wrestling leading up to the Mayweather fight. Mayweather went in there and made a joke out of pro wrestling. I've always said that Wrestlemania 24 had nine matches, and eight of them were good. You can guess which one I think sucked? A lot of other wrestling fans share my opionions as well.
I think at this point, Pacquiao might be the only guy that can beat Mayweather. I'll give Mayweather his due, because he has beaten every challanger put infront of him. However he is no longer pound for pound the greatest fighter in the world. That title belongs to Pacquiao or someone in the UFC who is much more deserving. Come out, come out where ever you are Floyd because Manny is waiting for you. Only time will tell if Floyd has the guts to take on someone his equal. Until then we will just have to hear about it.
In a New York State of Mind
First off, I would like to apologize to the fans of the Phillies and Rays because neither of your teams are going to the World Series in 2009. It is invietable at this point that even before spring training that they Yankees and the Mets will clash in a Subway Series next year. Why? Because the finally bought themselves a championship. A lot of players when they get the big contracts don't play as hard so they make themselves look bad and the team look bad. However, CC Sabathia, and AJ Burnett want to win a World Series, it was evident by the press conference the other day. They both want to be in New York and the both want to win a Championship. CC proved to be a great pitcher when their is some extra motivation involved. AJ Burnett will prove to be as well. I think the Yankees will outlast the Red Sox and certainly outlast the Rays with out a problem.
Now we have the New York Mets, a team who should have been in the playoffs the last two years and missed out due in large part to the relief pitching that failed them. Well say no more, because the Mets picked up JJ Putz, another guy that with more motivation is going to picth better then he already was in Seattle. Then you have the greatest closer possibly of this generation in K-Rod, Fransisco Rodriguiz. He holds the all time single-season saves record with 62 which he set this year. He wants another ring, and what better way to get in, then in New York. I don't think the Phillies will be able to get past them in the Division, and neither will any other team in the National League.
Both teams have spent millions on pitching which is the key to winning a World Series and being successful. Both teams also have new stadiums and what better way to cap of a first year in those stadiums then to win a World Series. It makes sense. It all makes sense. I really think that their is no chance for any other teams in baseball. The two evil empires are back and I think they are here to stay for awhile. So which team is going to the rise to the challange? The question is which team is willing to take risks to win. Only time will tell.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
NFL Week 15 Recap, WWE Armageddon and More
Well NFL Week 15 is now in the books and I must say that Carolina being in the Super Bowl looks more realistic then it ever did. The beat Denver in a one-sided game this week and they play the most dysfunctional team in football right now this Sunday Night. The New York Giants. Whoever wins this game has homefield advantage throughout the playoffs. Good stuff. Some bad officiating in the Ravens-Steelers game and the Lions-Colts game. Yes, the Lions lost again, but thats old news. I heard if they lose this weekend they are going to air the last game of the season on Sunday Night or Monday Night...How humiliating is that. The Titans lost barely on a bad call be Jeff Fisher and the Jets, Pats, and Dolphins are all tied in the division right now. Should be a good last two weeks.
The unthinkable happened this past Sunday night when Jeff Hardy defeated Triple H and Edge to win his first WWE Championship. It's a great story of a recovering drug addict who cleaned his life up and got a second chance. It's well deserved. The whole Pay-Per-View was great from top to bottom. Mysterio-Punk had a terrific match that saw Punk winning. Vladimir Kozloff had his best match yet with Matt Hardy and even Batista and Orton tore down the house. Other then the big four this was the best Pay-Per-View of the year. Actually other then Wrestlemania it was the best PPV of the year.
I'd finally like to close by saying that I think that the next World Series is going to be a Subway Series between the Yankees and Mets. More on that later this week. God Bless and be safe.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEARS!!!
The unthinkable happened this past Sunday night when Jeff Hardy defeated Triple H and Edge to win his first WWE Championship. It's a great story of a recovering drug addict who cleaned his life up and got a second chance. It's well deserved. The whole Pay-Per-View was great from top to bottom. Mysterio-Punk had a terrific match that saw Punk winning. Vladimir Kozloff had his best match yet with Matt Hardy and even Batista and Orton tore down the house. Other then the big four this was the best Pay-Per-View of the year. Actually other then Wrestlemania it was the best PPV of the year.
I'd finally like to close by saying that I think that the next World Series is going to be a Subway Series between the Yankees and Mets. More on that later this week. God Bless and be safe.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEARS!!!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
My worst fear about the Detroit Tigers has come true...
As I've been saying since the end of the season the Detroit Tigers needed pitching, mainly relief pitching. The starters just all had bad years last year. Now their are plenty of free agent pitchers on the market this offseason, both starting and relief. My greatest fear came to life yesterday when they traded for a pitcher and got rid of some good, young and upcoming player.
Yesterday the traded away Outfielder Matt Joyce to Tampa Bay, for Starting Pitcher Edwin Jackson. Edwin Jackson stats from last year are:
14 Wins, 11 Loses
4.42 ERA
108 Strikeouts and 77 Walks. Thats a horrible K/BB ratio.
Quick question why didn't they for Andy Pettite, Kerry Wood, or Fransisco Rodriguiz(who set a record for most saves in season last year.) Matt Joyce was the future of Detroit in my opinion. If we were going to trade someone, it should have been Marcus Thames or Gary Sheffield, because Matt Joyce along with Jeff Larish earned their spots last year and proved to be Major League players.
Dave Dombrowski made another huge mistake, a mistake thats going to screw us. Just like the Jair Jurrijens trade a year ago, this is going to have a major backlash, because Jurrijens is already becoming a star in Atlanta and I am sure Joyce will become a star in Tampa Bay.
So what have the Tigers done so far in the offseaon? Traded away prospect pitchers(thats typical) for a catcher who no one knows. Signed a shortstop who no one really knows and now signed a pitcher that has decent numbers, but they aren't worth bragging about. I really feel for the people of Detroit and season ticket holders because they are going to be in for a long season. I am making a promise to myself that if they don't get a major big name pitcher who had credible numbers I will not watch the Tigers in the 2009 season. I will not let myself get disappointed again.
Yesterday the traded away Outfielder Matt Joyce to Tampa Bay, for Starting Pitcher Edwin Jackson. Edwin Jackson stats from last year are:
14 Wins, 11 Loses
4.42 ERA
108 Strikeouts and 77 Walks. Thats a horrible K/BB ratio.
Quick question why didn't they for Andy Pettite, Kerry Wood, or Fransisco Rodriguiz(who set a record for most saves in season last year.) Matt Joyce was the future of Detroit in my opinion. If we were going to trade someone, it should have been Marcus Thames or Gary Sheffield, because Matt Joyce along with Jeff Larish earned their spots last year and proved to be Major League players.
Dave Dombrowski made another huge mistake, a mistake thats going to screw us. Just like the Jair Jurrijens trade a year ago, this is going to have a major backlash, because Jurrijens is already becoming a star in Atlanta and I am sure Joyce will become a star in Tampa Bay.
So what have the Tigers done so far in the offseaon? Traded away prospect pitchers(thats typical) for a catcher who no one knows. Signed a shortstop who no one really knows and now signed a pitcher that has decent numbers, but they aren't worth bragging about. I really feel for the people of Detroit and season ticket holders because they are going to be in for a long season. I am making a promise to myself that if they don't get a major big name pitcher who had credible numbers I will not watch the Tigers in the 2009 season. I will not let myself get disappointed again.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
NFL Week 14 Recap, Slammys, Tigers, and more.
Well NFL week 14 is done and I am so happy that my boys from Carolina won. That was an awesome game Monday Night. I knew it would be. Tampa is a good team but Carolinas running game killed them and the passing game got a lot better. The Lions lost by one...Does that surprise anyone at all. Not me. 0-16 baby, it's going to happen. I love it. The Titans won, the Jets lost and Miami could be in the playoffs. A lot is going to happen the last few weeks here. Should be interesting and fun to watch. I love it. I hope Carolina goes to the Super Bowl. I think they proved that they are good enough to do so. My dream Super Bowl is Titans-Panthers, because it would be cool to see Kerry Collins play against his old team. I love Collins, he is a great Quarterback and a part of me still wishes he was still in Carolina. Oh well, we got Jake who is turning into a QB.
The Slammys were Monday Night and the hype was better then the show. I got three hours of wrestling but the actual awards part sucked. Some good matches though. Punk-Morrison, the handicap match and Hardy-Jericho were all great matches. Armageddon is Sunday and it should be a decent PPV. Look foward to watching it.
The Tigers are pissing me off majorly in the Winter Meetings right now. The got a catcher, and a damn shortstop that they didn't need. They need pitching damn it. What the hell is wrong with Dave Dombrowski? Learn your lession from last year. PITCHING, PITCHING, PITCHING, PITCHING AND PITCHING I dont know how many times I have to say it. My neighbor, my co-workers, and other friends agree with me. I am going on record and saying that if they don't acquire any pitching I will not watch them this year. No joke!!!
How about OJ finally getting his. I think that judge had a lot of people putting pressure on her because she denied every motion that they tried getting out of her. This should have happened 13 years ago. Johnny Cochran couldn't come back to life and save him this time. He's Guilty on all Charges Thank God, justice was served.
Well I am out, if anything happens in terms of Michigan sports I'll be back. Tigers better do something. I am so sick and tired of them not listening to the fans. Only time will tell if they do so. Have a good one, be safe on the roads. God Bless.
The Slammys were Monday Night and the hype was better then the show. I got three hours of wrestling but the actual awards part sucked. Some good matches though. Punk-Morrison, the handicap match and Hardy-Jericho were all great matches. Armageddon is Sunday and it should be a decent PPV. Look foward to watching it.
The Tigers are pissing me off majorly in the Winter Meetings right now. The got a catcher, and a damn shortstop that they didn't need. They need pitching damn it. What the hell is wrong with Dave Dombrowski? Learn your lession from last year. PITCHING, PITCHING, PITCHING, PITCHING AND PITCHING I dont know how many times I have to say it. My neighbor, my co-workers, and other friends agree with me. I am going on record and saying that if they don't acquire any pitching I will not watch them this year. No joke!!!
How about OJ finally getting his. I think that judge had a lot of people putting pressure on her because she denied every motion that they tried getting out of her. This should have happened 13 years ago. Johnny Cochran couldn't come back to life and save him this time. He's Guilty on all Charges Thank God, justice was served.
Well I am out, if anything happens in terms of Michigan sports I'll be back. Tigers better do something. I am so sick and tired of them not listening to the fans. Only time will tell if they do so. Have a good one, be safe on the roads. God Bless.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
NFL Week 13 Recap, WWE Survivor Series, WWE Armageddon, and Moe
Well sorry I didn't post last week, like I usually do on Tuesdays but I was angry about the Panthers and Titans losing, I wasn't in the mood to post. That and it was Thanksgiving so I needed a break. Let me start off by saying, boy did the Lions sure get their clocks cleaned by the Titans on Turkey day, geez. It was ridiculious. The Panthers won this week in a very close, competitive game against the Green Bay Packers, in Green Bay nonetheless. I haven't liked the Panthers since the whole Brett Favre thing went down. I thought it was a slap in the face to a legend. This coming Monday is going to be difficult. Watch Monday Night Raw or watch Monday Night Football when Carolina hosts Tampa Bay. Believe it or not thats a tough one for me. I'll be doing a lot of flipping back and forth.
Last Sunday was WWE Survivor Series, and it wasn't the greatest of PPV's but it some highlights like for example. Edge screwing 3 people out of the WWE title to only win it for himself and associate himself with Vickie Guerrero again. Also Shawn Michaels, the Great Khali, and Rey Mysterio were Survivors on their team. The victory celebration was funny. And last but certainly not least is the return of John Cena, who defeated Chris Jericho to become World Heavyweight Champion. It was actually one of Cena's better matches in recent memory. Glad to have you back John, so I can start complaining about you and your lack of skill...just kidding. He has actually gotten better.
The next WWE, Pay-Per-View is Armageddon and three huge matches have been signed. One being, the rematch between Cena and Jericho. Next is Batista vs. Orton and, the one I am looking foward to the most. Edge vs. Hardy vs. Triple H for the WWE Title. Those three matches alone are impressive. Can't wait to find out what other matches are coming.
Next week is the Slammys on Monday Night Raw where all 3 brands will in the house. Stephanie McMahon announced on RAW the Slammy nominees for the Superstar of the Year.They are: Edge, Batista, Jeff Hardy, Chris Jericho, Triple H and John Cena. There is also 5 huge matches signed:
Chris Jericho vs. Jeff Hardy
John Cena vs. Edge - Champion vs. Champion
Batista vs. Triple H
John Morrison vs. CM Punk- IC Title Tournament Semi-Final
Rey Mysterio vs. Kofi Kingston-IC Title Tournament Semi-Final
I personally cannot wait for Rey Mysterio and Kofi Kingston. That match is going to off the charts. Monday Night next week is shaping up to be a good one.
The major talk of the sports world this last week is Plaxico Burress, the Wide Reciever from the New York Giants. I am not one to judge people but why in the hell would you bring a gun into New York City and how could you possibly be dumb enough to shoot yourself in the leg. Burress is a talent individual but his attitude and stupidity may have cost him his career, or atleast in New York anyways. Didn't he learn anything from the Sean Taylor incident last year. These atheletes need to wake up and smell the coffee. It isn't a right to play sports, it's a privilage and they take it for granted. They make these millions of dollars and do stupid crap like that. I for one don't feel sorry for any of them. I hope atheletes will be smarter in the future.
On that note, I am outta here. Have a safe week, and God Bless
Last Sunday was WWE Survivor Series, and it wasn't the greatest of PPV's but it some highlights like for example. Edge screwing 3 people out of the WWE title to only win it for himself and associate himself with Vickie Guerrero again. Also Shawn Michaels, the Great Khali, and Rey Mysterio were Survivors on their team. The victory celebration was funny. And last but certainly not least is the return of John Cena, who defeated Chris Jericho to become World Heavyweight Champion. It was actually one of Cena's better matches in recent memory. Glad to have you back John, so I can start complaining about you and your lack of skill...just kidding. He has actually gotten better.
The next WWE, Pay-Per-View is Armageddon and three huge matches have been signed. One being, the rematch between Cena and Jericho. Next is Batista vs. Orton and, the one I am looking foward to the most. Edge vs. Hardy vs. Triple H for the WWE Title. Those three matches alone are impressive. Can't wait to find out what other matches are coming.
Next week is the Slammys on Monday Night Raw where all 3 brands will in the house. Stephanie McMahon announced on RAW the Slammy nominees for the Superstar of the Year.They are: Edge, Batista, Jeff Hardy, Chris Jericho, Triple H and John Cena. There is also 5 huge matches signed:
Chris Jericho vs. Jeff Hardy
John Cena vs. Edge - Champion vs. Champion
Batista vs. Triple H
John Morrison vs. CM Punk- IC Title Tournament Semi-Final
Rey Mysterio vs. Kofi Kingston-IC Title Tournament Semi-Final
I personally cannot wait for Rey Mysterio and Kofi Kingston. That match is going to off the charts. Monday Night next week is shaping up to be a good one.
The major talk of the sports world this last week is Plaxico Burress, the Wide Reciever from the New York Giants. I am not one to judge people but why in the hell would you bring a gun into New York City and how could you possibly be dumb enough to shoot yourself in the leg. Burress is a talent individual but his attitude and stupidity may have cost him his career, or atleast in New York anyways. Didn't he learn anything from the Sean Taylor incident last year. These atheletes need to wake up and smell the coffee. It isn't a right to play sports, it's a privilage and they take it for granted. They make these millions of dollars and do stupid crap like that. I for one don't feel sorry for any of them. I hope atheletes will be smarter in the future.
On that note, I am outta here. Have a safe week, and God Bless
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