Their Time Will Come

          The Cincinnati Bengals came into the 2011 season with very low expectations. Their franchise quarterback retired and they went in to opening weekend starting three rookies at key positions on offense. The expectations began to change as the young and competitive Bengals started the season 6-2, which included a five game winning streak. Since their hot start, the Bengals have lost four of five and are on the outside looking in when it comes to a playoff berth. Their latest loss came at home to the Houston Texans. The Texans were starting their third string quarterback T.J. Yates, who led them downfield for the go ahead score with two seconds remaining in the game. The Bengals had the lead the whole game up until that point. Since the heartbreaking loss all I am hearing from fans in the area is that it is “the same old Bengals” or that “Marvin needs to go.”

          Well, I think that Bengal fans need to calm down and realize that the Bengals probably aren’t a playoff team. That may be hard to grasp considering their hot start, but it’s the truth. In fact, this team still has a decent shot to make the playoffs if they win their final three games, which is very possible. What if they don’t win out and they do not make the postseason for the third time since 1990? Are Bengals fans going to say the same lines I mentioned above? If so, I have two questions for them: How? And why? How is this 2011 team like all of the others? When have the Bengals had two rookies bust on the scene and show that they are budding NFL superstars? Why does Marvin need to go? Wasn’t this team supposed to go winless? Rick Reilly predicted that the Bengals would go 0-16. Now, Bengal fans want to moan and grown when the Bengals fall to 7-6? I was disappointed after the loss and I will never accept losing, but I am not going to let it spoil this season. I am not going to say Marvin needs to go or that these Bengals are just like the Bengal teams of past years. I am going to have perspective. Why? Because these young Cats can play. A.J. Green is already one of the best wide receivers in the game and he is just a rookie. Andy Dalton has been compared to Tom Brady this season. The potential for this team is sky high, but they just need time to grow and address a few weak spots.

          The Bengals are probably going to finish 8-8 or 9-7 this season. Any fan that wants to complain should ask an Indianapolis fan how they feel about their season. There is no way that I am going to complain about what the Bengals have done this year. This team feels like it is close to breaking out and that break out could be in the next three games to lead to a playoff run or it could be next season. Either way, relax Bengals fans and be patient because a winning team is forming in Cincinnati.

Andy Dalton (left) and A.J. Green (right) are young players who have
 the talent to lead this team to great things for years to come.
(Photo Courtesy of Cincinnati.com)

Week 9 Picks

Week 9 already? Wasn't this season supposed to be cancelled? Or was that the NBA? The NFL season has been very exciting and the Bengals are surprising a lot of people. If they get a win this week I might go all in on the young team from Cincinnati. Right now, they are a feel good story that comes back down to earth this week.

I'll take the NY Jets over Buffalo, Houston over Cleveland, Atlanta over Indy, New Orleans over Tampa, San Francisco over Washington, St. Louis over Arizona, Tennesee over Cincinnati (I hope I'm wrong), Green Bay over San Diego and New England over the NY Giants.

Intriguing game of the Week: Oakland over Denver- Carson Palmer makes his first start as a Raider against the immortal Tim Tebow. The fact is, Oakland has a better running game and defense even with their star running back out. Tim Tebow will keep his team in the game, but Oakland wins by a FG.
Oakland: 24    Denver: 21

Upset Special- Miami over Kansas City- Miami played well last week and almost got their first win. Now, they face a Kansas City team who has won four games in a row. Kansas City seems like a lock right? Wrong. Miami's run defense will hold Jackie Battle and co. in check and the Miami Dolphins will get their first win of the season.  Miami:17    Kansas City: 14

Lock of the Week- Dallas over Seattle- The Cowboys are at home and need a win this week. I think Cowboys' QB Tony Romo leads his team to a much needed victory. Dallas is a very good survivor pool play this week.
Dallas: 31   Seattle:17

Game of the Week: Pittsburgh over Baltimore- The Steelers were dominated bythe Ravens in week one. Well, since then Pittsburgh has went 6-1 and is fresh off of a big win over Tom Brady and the New England Patriots. I think Pittsburgh gets their revenge.
Pittsburgh: 20    Baltimore: 17

I think Big Ben and the Steelers will come out and get revenge
on Joe Flacco and the Baltimore Ravens.

NFL Picks Week 4

How great is it to have football back? Sundays are entertaining and on Mondays there's always something to talk about. The baseball playoffs started, who knew? Well, last week I had a solid record with my NFL picks. I was 11-5. I got my two locks right (Pittsburgh and San Diego) and hope to one up myself this week with a better performance. My overall record is 25-7 (didn't make picks the first week). Well, there's no reason to keep you waiting any longer. Here are my NFL picks for week 4: Buffalo over Cincinnati, Cleveland over Tennessee, Detroit over Dallas, Philadelphia over San Francisco, Minnesota over Kansas City, NY Giants over Arizona, Atlanta over Seattle, Green Bay over Denver, New England over Oakland, San Diego over Miami and Tampa over Indy.


Lock of the week is: New Orleans over Jacksonville.

Upset Special: St. Louis over Washington 

My Survivor Pool Pick this week: Chicago over Carolina. Also considered Buffalo over Cincinnati.
Use one of those if your in a survivor pool and you should make it one more week.

Must watch games of the Week: Pittsburgh vs Houston and NY Jets vs Baltimore.

I'll take Pittsburgh and Baltimore in those games.

Sam Bradford can't let his Rams fall to 0-4. They won 7 games
last year and were my pick to win the NFC West this year.
I think they knock off Washington this week.

Bengals Fans Just Don't Get it

         During the NFL lockout there were plenty of fans that weren't excited about the football season. I heard more than one person say "they hoped there wasn't a season, so the Bengals didn't embarrass themselves." Well, a week 1 victory and a solid week 2 from rookie QB Andy Dalton has suddenly raised expectations. The Bengals lost their home opener on Sunday. Andy Dalton didn't play well and looked like a rookie all afternoon.  Last night on Twitter someone asked the Bengals' beat Writer Joe Reedy if he thought we would win another game this season. I do not get how you could ask that question. The Bengals will win another game. They will win a few more, but they won't be the 8-10 win team that fans were dreaming about. They also won't be the 1 win team that is in the running for the first overall pick in this year’s draft. Stop getting too high and too low Bengals fans. Isn't that bad for your health?

          Before the season started, I said I was excited. I was excited to start a season without having high hopes. I was interested in seeing this young team play. I said that they would entertain us and be competitive. I also predicted they'd win four games. The Bengals have potential, but they won't touch their true potential this season. That is okay with me (and should be okay with all Bengals fans), because going into this year I knew they would be average or below average most of the time. I knew they would show flashes of very good play and follow it with horrid play. That's what young players do and that's what we can expect from the 2011 Bengals. They had no business beating Cleveland in season opener, but they also had no business losing to Denver when the Broncos were missing 40% of their starters.

          This is a young team and we need to give them time to work out all of the kinks. Becoming great at anything takes time, and the Bengals just aren't there yet. Stop jumping on or off the bandwagon because there isn't one this year. This season is an interview for next year. We don’t have a horrible record (1-2) and as long as we grow each week I can’t be mad at them. Watch the games and make a decision on whether or not you'll be on the band wagon next year. Next year they may have a shot to be 10-6, but for now let's realize that this is just the beginning and with a little luck we might just have a shot to be very good in a few short years.

AJ Green (above) and the Bengals have potential, they just need time to grow as players.

Let's Try This Again

          Last season when the University of Cincinnati Bearcats played N.C. State they got beat up. The Bearcats were physically and mentally weaker than the Wolfpack. UC was on the road, had a new head coach and was missing their starting running back. Not to mention that the team was very young. This season, they are at home, have veteran leaders and are hoping for a better outcome than they received last season.

          They have to turn to guys like J.K. Schaffer to help the defense really hold its’ own against North Carolina State. The Bearcats are 2-1 and if they want to re-establish their relevance in college football, this is a game they have to win. The game is being nationally televised on ESPN. The win would give them a 3-1 record and give them momentum heading into their conference schedule.

          I think their offense is going to need to score. Defense has been a problem in Bearcat country for years and with young defensive backs it will be hard for the defense to contain the Wolfpack. The key to the offense is the offensive line and Senior QB Zach Collaros. If the line can open up holes for Isiah Pead like they have the first three games and give Collaros time to throw the ball our offense should be in good shape. Zach needs to be able to feel when he is being pressured and make good decisions in and out of the pocket. One way to hide a defense is to keep them off of the field. Third down conversions will play a major role in deciding this game. It would be huge if the UC defense can get off of the field and get the ball back for its’ offense. If we can run the ball effectively and have long 10-12 play scoring drives it will keep our defense rested for a big stop late in the game. I think the defense will have to make a play late to bring home a win.



Bottom Line: For UC to win this football game they need to do a few things:


1.Establish the run. After that they need to run, run and run some more.


2. Give Collaros time to throw: If Zach gets time, he is very effective. I would like to see him use his feet some tonight to get positive yards in pressure situations.


3. Get the ball to the playmakers: Isiah Pead, D.J. Woods, Anthony McClung.


4. Get off of the field on Third down: If the UC defense can step up and get off of the field on third downs, it will really give the Bearcats a good shot at winning.



Prediction: I think that the defense who can slow the others offense down (just a little) will win. I think it will be a high scoring game and one in which the Bearcats win in a very tight contest. The team with the last defensive stop will win and that will be UC.


Final Score: UC: 38 N.C. State: 31

Isiah Pead (above) didn't play in the loss at N.C. State last
season. He should be a difference maker in
a game that UC needs to win.

NFL Picks Week 2

Well, after such a pass heavy opening week to the NFL, I expect things to settle down some. There are some great games scheduled though and with that said, here are my picks for week 2:


Buffalo vs Oakland- 1pm game time and Oakland is coming east to play this game in Buffalo. Oakland doesn’t seem to beat anyone outside of the AFC West. That, the time change and the fact that Buffalo is a pretty solid football team lead to the Raiders losing to the Bills.


Final Score: Buffalo: 31 Oakland: 21


Green Bay vs Carolina- I know that Carolina is at home and Cam Newton had a great rookie debut, but they lost last week. That Arizona team they lost to is nowhere near as good as tthe defending Super Bowl Champs. Packers cruise.


Final Score: Green Bay: 38 Carolina: 17


Detroit vs Kansas City- Kansas City was embarrassed last week and a lot of people think that this game will be no different. They are on the road against an up and coming Lions team. I think Kansas City is better than people think, but Detroit is at home and they win by two scores.



Final Score: Detroit: 30 Kansas City: 17


Cleveland vs Indianapolis- In my opinion, this is the hardest game to predict. Cleveland did not look good at all lost week. They seem over hyped and before Peyton Manning went down the Colts were definitely the favorite. I think this game will be a battle. Kerry Collins doesn’t want to be a bust and Indy has a few playmakers to keep it close. However, Peyton Hillis is going to run wild on this Indy team and he will lead his Browns to a win.



Final Score: Cleveland: 24 Indianapolis: 16


Chicago vs New Orleans- New Orleans came up short last week at Lambeau field, but have a shot to redeem themselves at home to a Chicago team that beat up on Atlanta last week. Before the season I said Chicago would be better than Detroit in their conference and compete for a playoff spot. After last week, my prediction looked right. The problem is, I just can’t see New Orleans starting 0-2.


Final Score: New Orleans: 31 Chicago: 28


Jacksonville vs New York: Jacksonville beat a very weak Tennessee team by two and I have a feeling they won’t be so lucky this week. The Jets escaped the Cowboys and now will destroy the Jaguars.


Final Score: New York: 28 Jacksonville: 7


Baltimore vs Tennessee: Baltimore is coming into this game very confident. They just dismantled their division rival at home and I expect them to beat up on the Titans the same way. They are going to be too physical for Chris Johnson and the Titans.



Final Score: Baltimore: 24   Tennessee: 10


Cincinnati vs Denver: The Bengals come off a very grind it out win against Cleveland. They are going up against a beat up Denver team, but for some reason I am leaning toward the Broncos here. Whoever runs the ball best will have the advantage (Cincinnati), but I think the Broncos use their home crowd and deny the Bengals their first win in Denver since 1975 (I hope I'm WRONG).


Final Score: Denver: 23   Cincinnati: 20



Washington vs Arizona: This is a very interesting matchup. Tim Hightower goes against his former team. Two quarterbacks that won in their first week of being the official starter of their respective teams. Arizona's pass defense worries me and it will really hurt them on the road in this game.



Final Score: Washington: 28  Arizona: 21


Dallas vs San Francisco: Dallas choked last week in the meadowlands and the 49ers got two big plays on special teams that helped them get by Seattle. I think Tony Romo and the Cowboys are going to be all business and win this game by two possessions.



Final Score: Dallas: 27   San Francisco: 16


Miami vs Houston- Houston is coming off of a big win and is extremely confident. Miami gave up the most passing yards in Monday Night Football history. I think Miami will perform better defensively than they did last week, but they still come up short and Houston becomes 2-0. Arian Foster also looks to return to the Texans after being out last week with a hamstring injury.



Final Score: Houston: 31  Miami: 17


St. Louis vs New York Giants- Here we have two teams that missed the playoffs by a game last year and opened this season with a week 1 loss. St. Louis would normally be my pick here, but they are just too banged up. Sam Bradford is hurt, but expected to play. I think the Giants D line is going to get after him. Their workhouse Steven Jackson is also banged up and is not playing. I think being on the road, banged up against a Giants team that would be facing a lot of heat if they lost this game is too much to overcome for Bradford and the young Rams.



Final Score: New York: 24   St. Louis: 17


Lock of the Week:
Seattle vs Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh is coming off a beating. Baltimore destroyed the Steelers. Well, this week the Steelers are going to take their anger and rage out on the poor Seahawks. This one is going to get ugly.


Final Score: Pittsburgh: 35 Seattle: 3


Upset Special:


Tampa Bay vs Minnesota- Both teams are 0-1 and are desperate for a win. Mcnabb struggled in his Vikings debut and will look to rebound. Tampa Bay is the better team and lost at home to the Lions last week. In this case, I am going to go with the veteran Quarterback at home, with the best running back in the NFL. This is my upset special; Vikes win on a last second field goal.



Final Score: Minnesota: 27 Tampa Bay: 24


Intriguing Matchup of the Week


Atlanta vs Philadelphia- Mike Vick comes back to where it all started. He's never played in the Georgia dome as a starter for anyone but the Falcons. It will be interesting to see how the crowd reacts to him, but a lot of reports i have read said Atlanta still loves Vick. Froma football standpoint Atlanta plays very well at home. They need to run the ball and keep Michael Vick on the sidelines. Atlanta secondary is concerning and is something that needs to be addressed. However, Matt Ryan is 20-2 on his home turf and he wants to show his own Atlanta fans that he is the man for the job and not Vick.



Final Score: Atlanta: 35   Philadelphia: 31

Matt Ryan looks to mark his territory against
 former Atlanta QB Michael Vick.

Game of the Week


New England vs San Diego- This is going to be a fun game to watch. Brady and Rivers are two of the best quarterbacks in the league. However, Brady has more weapons, a better coach and he is at home. New England takes this game.

Final Score: New England: 34   San Diego: 28

Tom Brady and Phillip Rivers square off in what
should be a great game.

Bill Belichick at His Finest

I absolutely love this video. Rare to see Belichick like this.


Usually he's focused like this

The Hope Solo Phenomenon Continues

2011 NFL Season Preview

NFC North



Green Bay Packers- Packer Nation should be ecstatic that they won the Super Bowl last year. But, now they have to try and repeat. With Jermichael Finley and Ryan Grant both coming back from and injury filled season last year, they are reloaded and ready for 2011. Aaron Rodgers and a great defense will lead the Packers to an NFC North Title this year and give them a great chance to repeat as Super Bowl Champions.
 Predicted Record: 13-3

                                             


<> 

Aaron Rodgers hopes to be holding up another Lombardi
trophy at the end of this season.



Chicago Bears- One game away from the Super Bowl last year and now most people have picked them to drop to third in the division (behind the Packers and Lions). Most people forget that they won this division last year and the Packers didn't. Although that will not be the case this year, the Bears will battle and get a second place finish in the NFC North and JUST MISS the playoffs.

Predicted Record: 9-7


Minnesota Vikings- The Vikings were a field goal away from being in the Super Bowl just two years ago. They still have a lot of talent and another veteran QB (Donovan McNabb) that has Super Bowl dreams. The problem is I think they lack a solid #1 receiver. They still have weapons with Percy Harvin and Visanthe Shiancoe. Don't forget they have a pretty good running back up there in Minnesota as well. The Vikings will finish third in the most competitive division in the NFL.


Predicted Record: 8-8


Detroit Lions- The Lions have improved tremendously since that 0-16 season just a few years back and some people have predicted them to go to the playoffs. Actually a lot of people have. However, I am not sold. They have an injury prone QB, a great WR and young Running Backs. Even if they are healthy this year they are going to need to learn how to win. I think they are a year away from really being a playoff contender. Next year is their year.


Predicted Record: 7-9




NFC South

Atlanta Falcons- The Atlanta Falcons won this division last year and they just added weapons on offense (Rookie WR Julio Jones) and defense ( DE Ray Edwards). They should remain at the top of the division. They have a trio of stars with Matt Ryan, Roddy White and Michael Turner. Not to mention veteran leaders like Tony Gonzalez. The Falcons remain the team to beat in the NFC South, and lucky for them not many teams in the NFL will have the talent or firepower to stop them.

Predicted Record: 12-4 


Matt Ryan and Roddy White should help the Atlanta Falcons win
the NFC South and contend for a Championship.



                                                                                

                                                       

New Orleans Saints- The New Orleans Saints will battle with the young Falcons for the division crown, but will fall just short. They will be a threat in the playoffs and a team that nobody wants to see. Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees will lead them to a Wild Card Playoff Berth.

Predicted Record: 11-5


Tampa Bay Buccaneers- I feel sorry for the Bucs. They play in a division that is stacked at the top. Young Quarterback Josh Freeman played great last year and I think he will continue to do so. However, I think Tampa Bay is a year away from a playoff berth.

Predicted Record: 9-7


Carolina Panthers- The Panthers were the worst team in football last year and should stay there this year. They drafted Cam Newton who is freakishly big and athletic for a Quarterback. However, he is extremely inaccurate and there isn't much talent outside of running back Deangelo Williams. This division is just too good to let the Panthers be competitive. Andrew Luck sweepstakes anyone? They better figure out if Cam is their future.

Predicted Record: 3-13


NFC EAST

Philadelphia "Dream Team" Eagles- The Eagles were great last year and look to be just as successful this year. The problem used to be the health of Mike Vick. But, with Vince Young as a backup, the offense wouldn't really change if Vick went down. Both QB's are mobile and can resemble each other in the same offense. The health of Jeremy Maclin and the young linebacker core is a concern, but not enough for me to pick against the "Dream Team."

Predicted Record: 12-4


Dallas Cowboys- The Cowboys struggled with injuries last year. Tony Romo is back and ready to lead Dallas to the playoffs. I think they will make the playoffs and become a contender. Jason Garrett shed the "interim" head coach tag and hired Rob Ryan as his defensive coordinator. The defense will be improved.  This team WILL make the playoffs.

Predicted Record: 11-5


New York Giants- The New York Giants choked last year against Philadelphia and it cost them the playoffs. This year, they won't get that opportunity. They will be a slightlty better than average team and will end up with an average record. If Eli can cut down on his turnovers, they may have a shot. They still have weapons, but also lost TE Kevin Boss and WR Steve Smith who signed with the division rival Eagles.

Predicted Record: 8-8


Washington Redskins- The Redskins aren't going to be any good this season. I'm glad they competed during the preseason, but I don't see this team winning more than four games. Their Quarterback isn't going to be good (Rex Grossman) and their backup isn't any better (John Beck). Tim Hightower could help in the running game. But, overall they will struggle and have less wins than they did a year ago.

Predicted Record 4-12


NFC West

St. Louis Rams- The St. Louis Rams let the division title slip through their fingers last year. I do not think that will happen again. Sam Bradford is no longer a rookie and he has a new target in Mike Sims-Walker. Steven Jackson is a beast at running back and collectively St. Louis will get its first division title in quite some time.
Predicted Record: 10-6       

Sam Bradford (right) and Steven Jackson (left) will lead
the Rams to a division crown. 

                                       
Arizona Cardinals- The Cardinals were a quarterback away from the playoffs last season. Now, they have who they wanted at QB all along with Kevin Kolb. They gave up a Pro Bowl corner to get him. That will hurt the defense. I think the offense may struggle a bit early on because Kolb did not have any mini camps or practices because of the lockout. The Cardinals are a year away from the playoffs. Larry Fitzgerald will still ensure that the Cardinals are a winning team.

Predicted Record: 9-7


San Francisco 49ers- Speaking of not having a Quarterback? How does it feel San Francisco? They have Vernon Davis, a very good running back in Frank Gore, a solid defense, good WR's and yet they still won't contend. They are missing a Quarterback and once they get one they will be a solid team. With Alex Smith at the helm? How does 7-9 sound? Good, because you can't get there with Alex Smith


Predicted Record: 6-10

Seattle Seahawks: I cannot believe this team won a playoff game last year. Don't worry, I can assure you it won't happen again this season. Their quarterback bolted and went to Tennessee. When they signed Tavaris Jackson, they got a QB the Minnesota Vikings did not want. I do not think he can get the ball to the weapons they do have like Sidney Rice, Mike Williams and Zack Miller.

Predicted Record: 4-12 




AFC East

New England Patriots- The Patriots had a very good season last year, but came up a bit short in the playoffs. Now, journalists are calling this team "finesse" and picking them to lose the division to the Jets. Well, in the famous words of Chad Ochocinco: "Child Please." They have solid running backs, great Tight ends and plenty of Wide Receiver options. Oh and don't forget about the greatest quarterback in the game, Tom Brady.

Predicted Record: 13-3

Chad Ochocinco looks to give Tom Brady another weapon
and stretch the field for an offense that
lacked big plays last season.

New York Jets- The Jets beat the Patriots in the playoffs last season and look to finally get over the hump and get to a Super Bowl this year. They have a solid QB in Mark Sanchez and two potential big play threats with Santonio Holmes and Plaxico Burress. However, they rely on their defense and running game to win games and they will win plenty, en route to a Wild Card Playoff Berth.

Predicted Record: 11-5


Miami Dolphins- The Miami Dolphins have weapons on offense. They lost two running backs, (Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams) but they added a very dangerous open field runner in Reggie Bush and Rookie Daniel Thomas. They have a solid defense and a top tier WR with Brandon Marshall. It is up to their quarterback Chad Henne to raise his game and lead this Dolphins team. If he can do that, they could compete for a wild card birth. I think he will be solid, but he's an average QB, that's all there is to it.

Predicted Record: 7-9



Buffalo Bills- Believe it or not, I like the Buffalo Bills this season. Hopefully, C.J. Spiller can have a breakout year and Stevie Johnson will build off of his very productive year in 2010. Ryan Fitzpatrick is a solid quarterback and definitely better than his Dolphins counterpart Chad Henne. With that said, the Bills will compete, but will struggle in such a tough division.

Predicted Record: 7-9



AFC West


San Diego Chargers- The Chargers were #1 on offense and defense last year and DID NOT make the playoffs. I believe that was an exception and not the rule. The Chargers will win the division this year and take back what is rightfully theirs. Phillip Rivers always makes them a contender and now they have Vincent Jackson back for a full season after brutal contract issues last year.

Predicted Record: 11-5



Kansas City Chiefs- The Kansas City Chiefs have the best running back tandem in the league. They added a big fullback in Leron McClain and should continue to dominate on the ground. They lost offensive coordinator Charlie Weis and will struggle in the passing game somewhat this season. They have a tough schedule and it looks like last year was their fifteen minutes of fame.

Predicted Record: 8-8



Oakland Raiders- The Raiders swept this division last year and still ended up with just 8 wins. They fired Coach Cable and promoted Hue jackson. I've heard great things about Jackson, but this team has lost one of the top tier tight ends in the game (Zack Miller) and an imortant offensive lineman (Robert Gallery). They will still compete, but take a step back from last year.


Predicted Record: 7-9



Denver Broncos- The Denver Broncos were bottom feeders in the division last year and odds are they will remain there. Brandon Lloyd had a breakout season, but unless Knowshon Moreno can prove he is the answer at running back in Denver, then this team will be about as bad as it was last season.
Predicted Record: 5-11



AFC South

Houston Texans- It's either now or never for the Texans. They have a great Pro Bowl trio with Matt Schaub, Arian Foster and Andre Johnson. They signed Daniel Manning at safety and cornerback Jonathan Joseph. They should win this division, even if Manning was healthy for the Colts, but he's hurt and the AFC South is up for grabs. Houston is the clear cut favorite and it should get it's first playoff berth in franchise history.

Predicted record: 11-5



Tennessee Titans: The Titans went out and signed an underrated QB. Matt Hasselback is a veteran and more than capable of competing with any team in this division. Running back Chris Johnson will need to have a big year, but if he does the Titans could sneak up on some people. I just don't think Hasselbeck will stay healthy for 16 games and that will define their season with rookie Jake Locker as Hasselbeck's backup.


Predicted Record: 7-9




Indianapolis Colts- The Colts have their backs against the wall. They went out and signed veteran QB Kerry Collins, who will try to fill the void that Peyton Manning left. Today, news came out that Peyton will be out a minimum 2-3 months after another neck procedure. This is why the Colts have dropped to third place in the division. Yikes.

Predicted Record: 6-10





Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars decided just a few days ago that they were going to go young and released the second best quarterback in the history of their franchise in David Garrard. This might not have been the year to turn to their rookie quarterback, but I bet Blaine Gabbert will be named the starter by week 5. They could have had a shot this year with Garrard to make some noise in the division, but without him, they are a work in progress. We will see if the decision pays off.

Predicted Record 4-12

These Young Cats Will Show Flashes of Greatness

          The reaction after the Cincinnati Bengals' first two preseason games was second to none. Local media, fans and national media scrutinized the Bengals. They were a young team that was mismanaged. Andy Dalton was just too young to play quarterback in the NFL. The Bengals lost both preseason games by a total score of 61-10. This team was not given a shot and rightfully so. The fans and local media members began looking ahead to the draft and even mentioned who they wanted to draft with the number one draft pick overall (Andrew Luck, # 1 prospect in 2011 draft).

          I didn’t react the same way a lot of media members and fans did. In fact, I was on the other side of the spectrum. I thought that some of the MAJOR mistakes the Bengals made the first two games would get corrected. I thought this was a young team, but for the first time in the Marvin Lewis era, I’m not expecting 8-8 or better, I don’t expect to compete for a playoff birth and I don’t expect this team to have many Pro Bowl players. I do have some expectations for this team. I expect them to improve, show flashes of how good they can be and really compete and be a spoiler down the stretch. What does it mean to be a spoiler down the stretch? Essentially, it means we’ll end up with 4-6 wins, which isn’t good. The team won’t be that good, but they will compete. At the end of the season if the Cincinnati Bengals are 4-12 it will feel so much better than last year when we finished 4-12. I think people should have a positive outlook this year. I may get frustrated on Sundays, but nowhere near how mad I and essentially all of Cincinnati was at the end of each Sunday in the fall of 2010.

          On my previous post, I mentioned how this team will show flashes of what it can do. It will show us that it can compete at this level, despite its age and lack of experience. Well, on Thursday night, the Bengals did just that. In the first home preseason game against the Carolina Panthers the Red Rifle (Andy Dalton) completed 11 out of 17 first half passes, threw his first touchdown in the NFL to AJ Green and out dueled rookie counterpart and number one overall pick Cam Newton. However, the run game definitely set the tone for the Bengals. Cedric Benson ran 16 times for 68 yards (all in the first half) and also had a touchdown run. Bernard Scott broke away from Panther defenders and ran for 63 yards and had a touchdown on only six carries. The Bengals were physical on both sides of the ball and it translated into a win. It seems they will have a beat em up, physical style that the AFC North takes pride in. For one night the Bengals showed us the potential they have. Dalton and Green showed flashes of how good they may become, Bernard Scott showed us how important a healthy change of pace back can be and that defense showed it could stop the run and get pressure on the quarterback. I am not saying this will be the case on most Sundays during the regular season, but for at least one summer night in August, Bengals fans had a reason to be optimistic. Not only about this season, but about the future of the franchise.

The Bengals were no doubt more physical in the trenches against
the Carolina Panthers. The Offensive-Line opened up
numerous holes against the Panthers defense.

It Was Just One Preseason Game!

On Friday it seemed like Who Dey Nation was very optimistic with the fresh, young, new-look Bengals.Then, before we knew it, these young cats were down by 14 and reality sunk in. The doubts started pouring in on Twitter, the news and throughout Cincinnati. It was the first preseason game after a lockout. We have a starting rookie Quarterback (Dalton) and Wide Receiver (A.J. Green). We have a lot of new pieces on the defense. What would everyone have said if we won 34-3? Look, there is going to be growing pains, but at the end of the day, it was a meaningless exhibition game that did NOT mean anything. In fact, I'm going to stop wasting my time addressing the doubters and people who took off their Bengals Jersey on Friday night. We might not be that good this year. Odds are we won't be, but we are going to be exciting in spurts. There WILL be flashes of greatness from AJ Green. Andy Dalton WILL show off his talent. The defense WILL, well, be a question mark. Is it likely we will have a winning record? No! But those who were expecting a winning team out of the Bengals this year have to be off their rockers. This is a rebuilding year. I am going to get just as pissed off as the next guy when the Bengals screw up. But, I sure as hell am not going to get mad about a meaningless preseason game. I think the Bengals will have a 4-12 record this season (notice I didn't include a prediction for their preseason record). Buckle your seatbelt, it could be a bumpy ride, just don't get off before the ride even starts.

Andy Dalton will need time to develop, but there is still hope for
 a solid rookie season from the young quarterback.

Bengals Trailer- Hopefully This is Good Luck!

Well, It Was Good While It Lasted

         The 2010 season for the Cincinnati Reds went about as good as anyone could have hoped for. There were plenty of one-run wins, clutch performances and a MVP season for the Reds' first baseman Joey Votto. Overall, this added up to the teams' first playoff birth since 1995. Scott Rolen drank from the fountain of youth and role players like Jonny Gomes and Layce Nix became a formidable tandem. After getting swept dismissed in the playoffs by the Philadelphia Phillies, it seemed as though the Reds were poised to win the division and make the playoffs in back to back years for the first time since 1975-1976. It seemed that young players like Jay Bruce and Drew Stubbs would figure out what it takes to be an everyday player in the Major Leagues and really become consistent forces in the outfield. Joey Votto was just going to build on his MVP season and Brandon Phillips was going to be a human highlight reel. Scott Rolen was going to start and be the teams' anchor, providing veteran leadership to an overall young team. Edison Volquez was going to be our ace, followed by a solid rotation of pitchers like Johnny Cueto, Bronson Arroyo, Mike Leake and Travis Wood. With everything looking up for this organization at the start of the season, it is hard to believe that the Cincinnati Reds are 11 games out of first place and are struggling to stay in 3rd place in the National League Central. This is a division we won last year and now we aren't even close. With that said, how can the Reds return to the top of the division in 2012?


          Well, quite frankly I have no idea. Many players that I thought were good, just haven't been this season. The Reds just aren't a good team. This Scott Rolen looked like the 36 year old he is, Jonny Gomes never had the hot streak he had last season and that led to him being traded, the only consistent starting pitcher the Reds have is Johnny Cueto and he can only do so much. Joey Votto has played well, but he certainly is not having the season he had last year. Brandon Phillips has been great with his glove and decent with his bat. Hell, Dontrelle Willis has been our second best pitcher since he was promoted from the minors and he has yet to get a win. This team isn't scoring runs. They aren't getting hits with runners on base. They are missing the clutch factor that the Phillies, Red Sox, Rangers and any other World Series contender possess. Jay Bruce has been very inconsistent and I'm not really sure that he deserved to be an All Star. Drew Stubbs strikes out more than anyone and he still doesn't know how to bunt. During our most recent slide errors seem to be a problem, which shows a lack of concentration among the Reds. Travis Wood and Edison Volquez have been in, or flirted with the minors all season. Our opponent beats us in their last at bat, unlike last year when we were second best in last at bat wins. The Reds are 55-61 and have outscored their opponents by 31 total runs. The Milwaukee Brewers are 66-50 (11 games ahead) and they have only outscored their opponents by 28 total runs. The Reds seem to have the talent, but something is missing. Maybe they didn't click this year and next year will be more like 2010. But, I find it hard to be so optimistic. After the season there will have to be plenty of questions that need to be andwered. I hope they work out for the best as does all of Reds Nation. The 2011 Reds are done. So long 2011 Cincinnati Reds, so long playoffs.... See you in 2012? All we can do is hope at this point.

The Playoff Clincher: How long ago
does this seem?

Best Receiver in Franchise History

Remember this?

This is Pretty Funny!

Time to Reflect

When I woke up this morning I planned on going to work, enjoying my Friday night and start the weekend right. After work I might have wrote a sports minute like I tend to do before each weekend, but today was different. Last night, at Texas Rangers Stadium tragedy struck. Josh Hamilton through a ball up to Shannon Stone and his six year old son. Stone, a 39-year old fireman reached for the ball, lost his balance, fell Twenty-feet and hit the ground below. Stone was conscious and even talking to paramedics at first saying, "Take care of my son, He's all alone up there!" He did have a severe head injury and he went into cardiac arrest by the time he made it to the hospital. He passed away moments later. Shannon Stone is survived by his wife Jenny and his six year old son Connor.

Police look over the railing that Shannon Stone fell from.
Photo Courtesy of Jeffery Washington

Today was so different because something as innocent as taking your son to a baseball game could end up tragic. We, as human beings do not know what is coming next and that is why we need to cherish every moment because we truly never know when it will be our last. I think it is a time for major league baseball and really everyone involved in sports to realize how precious life can be. I cannot imagine how Jenny (Shannon's wife) feels. Her husband was just being a good father, taking his son to a baseball game and this is something that will be hard to get over. Live life to the fullest because you never know when it is going to end. It ended for Shannon, about 40 years before it should have.

Sports Minute

The Reds look to win a Fourth of July weekend Series' with the Cleveland Indians. Anybody going Friday night for the 2nd Annual Reds Tweetup?

Chad Ochocinco had some interesting things to say about Marvin Lewis and Mike Brown. When asked if it was the end of his time in Cincinnati, Ochocinco said, "There's no such thing as the end for me. Whether I'm in Cincinnati or whether I'm on one of the other 31 teams, I'm going to make it happen. They say the grass is not greener on the other side, but let me tell you, when I'm watering the grass it's going to be green." When asked about the dangers of wrestling alligators Ochocinco said, "I'm willing to try everything once before I die." And if he gets hurt? "If I get hurt, if I lose an arm, I can just be the kicker for the Bengals."

Carson Palmer is retiring in case anyone forgot.


The NBA lockout is just hours away and could end the 2012 season before it even starts.

The Time is Now

Well, it's June 30th and the Cincinnati Reds are 2.5 games out of first place and third place in the division. They're only .5 games ahead of the Pittsburgh Pirates who haven't been relevant since 1992. I am not sure what to think, or what moves this team needs to make. But, I do know something needs to change. Maybe, they will shoot out of the gates after the All Star break. But, the Reds have had every opportunity to make a run this year and they haven't. They lose series' to average teams like the Kansas City Royals, give away a great comeback against Tampa and just seem out of sync. Whatever the Reds need, it needs to happen soon (Maybe a trade for Jose Reyes?). These next two months will make or break this season and possibly the organization. Yes, the Reds are young, but, All Stars like Brandon Phillips and Joey Votto are more likely to relocate if you don't make the playoffs this year. Losing those two guys would be devastating to a franchise that seemed to have turned it around. The bad news: the Reds have been average through 82 games (42-40). However, the good news is the Reds have 80 more games. They have half the season to make it right. I think if they can go 50-30 they can set themselves up very nicely and have a good chance at the division crown. I hope the Reds are poppin' bottles celebrating the division in mid-september, but the time to turn it on is NOW.

I hope this is the view we have in September. Winning
the division last year was oh so sweet.

Sports Minute

Will the Miami Heat win the NBA Finals? If so, they will need Lebron to be more than a facilitator. Forget the fact that the Heat could easily be champs right now, the recipe for success is aggressiveness. Be aggressive for 48 minutes Lebron and maybe you'll get by Dirk and the Mavericks.

I'm going to go on record and say the winner of Game 5 will be NBA Champions.

Will the Reds be able to find success on their west coast trip this weekend? Recent history says no. They generally struggle when they play on the west coast.

Is Chad Ochocinco going to workout with A.J. Green?

Who would you rather have on your team T.O. or Ochocinco?

Took a look at Mo Egger's Blog. What a poll question. Is this shirt offensive?

Up Fifteen with Seven Minutes to Go. Game Over? No, Lebron No!!!

          The Miami Heat were up fifteen points with seven minutes to go in Game Two of the NBA Finals Thursday night and they blew it. I'll give Dallas a lot of credit because they took advantage of the Heat's inefficiency and ignorance. That's what champions do. Champions never give up and as soon as their opponent slips up, they make them pay. Champions hit the three that Wade hit in the corner to put the Heat up fifteen. But, then they end any hope of a comeback. There is all of this talk about a dynasty in Miami. The only problem is I cannot recall a collapse like this from any dynasty. Did the Lakers do this in their three-peat at the start of the decade? Does anyone remember the San Antonio Spurs giving up a fourth quarter lead like that? Would Michael Jordan let God himself come back from 15 points down with 7 minutes to go in the fourth quarter of a Finals game? The answer to all three is no. Great teams don’t do that. Great players prevent that from happening. The so-called “Big Three,” they became the “Big” 1. Down the stretch the Miami Heat became the 2007 Cleveland Cavaliers. Everyone clear out; so Lebron can take over with his magnificent jump shooting ability. The problem is, Lebron James couldn’t hit a jumper in 2007 and he couldn’t do it last night. Dwyane Wade had 36 points and got one shot in the final seven minutes. Wade has learned to defer to James, but I think it is pretty obvious that James is still fighting with the idea of deferring to Wade.
          Dwyane carried the Miami offense through three and a half quarters. Then, Lebron held the ball, did NOT run the offense and cost his TEAM the game. If Lebron ran the offense and drove to the basket I wouldn’t be writing this article. The Heat would be up two games to zero and ESPN Radio would not be asking its’ listeners if Mark Cuban will win his first NBA title at home. There has been a lot of uproar about Bosh not fouling Dirk on the last play. But, it shouldn’t have come down to that. Lebron needs to realize that he doesn’t always have to be the man to win the game. It was over, done and James decided he wanted to add some drama to the finals. I don’t think there is any question Miami is more talented and they have a good shot to still win the series. But, why would you give a very experienced Dallas team momentum, knowing that you have to go back to Dallas for three games?
          Wade has to be the closer, regardless of these playoffs and what Lebron has done. Miami HAS to take two out of three games in Dallas. If they do and come home with the series lead, they should win the series. Miami needs to play their game from start to finish. The Heat need this title, because without it the media storm will shoot through Lebron, Wade and Bosh. Everyone thinks "The Decision" caused uproar. Just imagine if this collapse is what ends the Miami Heat's championship aspirations. That is not something I want to deal with. Lebron, Wade and Bosh need go get game three, from start to finish and leave no doubt.

Wade needs to set the tone in Game 3 and make sure
 he delivers a Miami Heat Victory.

Remembering Shaq Diesel

There have been so many great moments for the "Big Aristotle," here are a few.

It all started with the 1992 NBA Draft. #1 overall to the Orlando Magic.

Rookie Hightlights. 1992 Rookie of the Year.

53 points? Say What???

Backboard Breaking Jam!

This might be my fondest memory of Shaq. It sealed the deal in the Western Conference Finals and led to a Three-Peat. Dynasty anyone? This play started it all.

                                                   Break it down big man!

Interview during the final season in the NBA with Boston Celtics

                                                      Shaq Announcement

Old Man

Wow.

Five Reasons Why the Miami Heat Should Win the 2011 NBA Championship.

The Miami Heat already hoisted the Eastern Conference trophy and
are four wins away from hosting the games' ultimate prize.

1. The Big Three are on a mission in the playoffs. Whether it is on defense or offense, Wade, James and Bosh have done what was asked of them for their team to be successful.

2. Udonis Haslem, Mike Miller and James Jones will be able to hold their own against the Dallas Bench. Dallas probably has the deepest bench in the league, but Miami's bench will be able to hold their own.

3. Lebron James wants to prove the doubters wrong. I think this series is more important to Lebron simply because of all the backlash he took for making "The Decision."

4. The Mavericks defense won't be able to stop Wade and Lebron at the same time. The last time I checked Jason Terry was not a defensive stopper.

5. Spolestra has shown the ability to make adjustments throughout a series. The Chicago Bulls dominated the Miami Heat in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, but Spolestra and his team made adjustments and won four straight games. Miami has been through the media scrutiny and fire all season. It seems to have brought them together and it should carry them to the NBA Championship.

NBA Finals Prediction

        When the "Big Three" got together in south beach last July, they had one goal and that goal was to win a championship. Well, maybe not one, or two, or three, or four, or five, or six. But, to get to six NBA Champioships, you have to win one. Their first year together has been a roller coaster ride. They started of 9-8. They rattled off 21 of 22 games and were looking like a contender. The media said they couldn't beat the NBA's best, and with a poor record against winning teams, the media appeared to be right. But, with all the bumps and bruises the Miami Heat took, they got stronger and grew together. Chris Bosh  has gotten aggressive, Lebron James is close to shredding the "he's not clutch" label and Dwayne Wade is looking like the leader who knew it would work.

        Now, after eliminating the defending Eastern Conference Champion Celtics and ousting the team with the best regular season record (Chicago Bulls), the Miami Heat have one more challenge. They are playing the Dallas Mavericks in the Finals and are four games away from proving that "The Decision" was worth it. Are the Miami Heat going to win it all or will Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks prove to be too much for the south beach trio? As great as Dirk as been for the Mavs, I am not sure they will be able to stop the Miami Heat. The Mavericks defense has improved, but I do not think they will be able to guard the Heat in the half court. No one can guard them on the fast break and Dirk Nowitzki will not be able to keep up with the big three. The Mavs bench is deeper, but with Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller establishing themselves against the Bulls, they will play a big role off the bench for Miami. One piece people might forget about for the Heat is James Jones. He can light it up from beyond the arc. The Heat bench is the deepest its been all season and may not outplay their Mavs counterparts, but they will certainly hold their own.

Brett Favre- "What Should I do"

Sports Minute

Interleague play begins this weekend, which isn't something a lot of sports media is a fan of. Just ask Lance Mcalister.

The Reds play a three game set with the in-state rival Cleveland Indians. Should be a great series considering they are the top two teams in the cbssports MLB power rankings.

The NBA Conference Finals are starting to heat up (no pun intended). Both series' are tied at one game a piece. Here's to two great finishes in both series', leading to an even better NBA Finals.

I read a great post by Mo Egger today. I suggest everyone checks it out and reads it from start to finish.

If this Fracture talk is true then I've probably done about 1% of what I wanted to do in life. It's kind of scary when you think about it, but there's no reason to because we'll all be alive and well on Sunday. Hopefully I'll have another post by then.






What's up with all this media hype about college athletes getting paid? There are so many logical reasons why that should NOT happen. I'm not going to get into all of them, but it is ignorant to even ponder that idea. are people really naive enough to think that STAR college athletes do not have any money? Hell, even if they are poor so is every aspiring lawyer, doctor, journalist or any other normal college student. Not to mention the thousands of dollars they will have to pay back in loans. Big time athletes do not have to worry about loans because they get scholarships. That is all the payment they need. This matter is going to heat up and I'm going to give it its own post soon enough. Please do not make the argument that athletes generate revenue for their respective schools and should see some of that money. That is an uneducated, and for lack of a better term ignorant.
Have a great weekend everybody!






O.J. Mayo, Kemba Walker and Cam Newton had college success and
generated plenty of revenue for their respective schools, but
that does not mean they should be paid.

Heat Bandwagon? Stay off Please!

In life, people tend to follow trends. Whether it is the cool jeans, new rap artist or hairstyle. People's opinions change in the blink of an eye. Many sports fans are no different. They like to jump on the new bandwagon simply because it is 'cool' or to 'fit in'. For example, last summer Lebron James decided he did not want to be in Cleveland. He bolted to Miami and every since 'The Decision' fans, media and even former players have not been afraid to lash out at him. Now, on May 11, 2011 the former 'Lebron Haters' have a new take on him and the Heat. The Heat defeated the Boston Celtics in five games last night and many 'fair-weather' fans have jumped on the Lebron bandwagon. Being a Heat fan since Dwayne Wade entered the league in 2003, I have dealt with a few rough years and I was able to celebrate a championship in 2006. When Lebron made 'The Decision' I was very excited and understood where he was coming from. The regular season was a roller coaster for Lebron, Wade, Chris Bosh and the rest of the Miami Heat players and coaches. I think many Heat fans felt part of that because I know I've personally been ripped for being a Miami fan. My response to the 'Miami Haters' is simple. Keep hating, DO NOT jump on the bandwagon. DO NOT follow the trend. In fact, don't change your opinion on Lebron or the rest of the Heat. They may not win three, four or five titles, but it sure as hell looks a lot more likely than it did two months ago doesn't it. The fact of the matter is the Heat are a very good team to invest in, but it is not fair to me or any other TRUE Miami Heat fan to sell your Boston Celtics/Los Angeles Lakers stock and invest in the Heat.


I'm glad we celebrated the way we did because we accomplished something last night. At first, I was thinking "we shouldn't be celebrating like that." But, historically both Wade and Lebron have struggled against the Celtics in the playoffs and now they've beaten them together. They got over the hump and proved their logic for coming together. They got passed the monster that they couldn't slay on their own.  I know they did not win the title last night and there is no guarantee the Heat will by any means. But, I think that they have tasted some success and will be confident going into the Eastern Conference Finals against a very good Chicago Bulls team. But, all is well for at least one day. Eight wins down and eight wins to go.





Dwayne Wade and Lebron James embrace each other after
a hardfought series-clinching victory in
Game 5 against the Boston Celtics