A notice to New York fans

I needed a few days to recover from that amazingly bad Giants game on Sunday. It was something you'd expect from the Jaguars but even they showed some fight against Seattle.
What makes me nuts is the fickle fans in New York who want Coughlin fired, GM Jerry Reese fired, Eli gone, the OC gone...but then a few callers of the local radio show came up with comparisons, why can't we be like?...
Like who? One caller was livid because he's tired of this feast or famine thing in NY. Why can't we be a perennial playoff team like Green Bay? or New England? or Atlanta?
The host quickly took issue..."Oh, you want to be like Green Bay who has had zero postseason success since winning three years ago? Or New England who gets in every year but had recently lost two Super Bowls to the team you want to be like them? Or the Falcons that have one playoff win in four straight years of getting in? How about the Niners? Who lost the NFC Championship to the Giants two years ago, then lost a Super Bowl. Which team do you want NY to be more like?" 
Every fan of every team deals with the same issues. So, you don't like that the Giants either don't make the postseason or win it all? Funny because when they went in 2005 and 2006 and were one and done Giants fans bitched that they couldn't get it done. So, why now do you wish they could be a perennial playoff team, even if they don't win it all? You can't have your cake and eat it too. The grass is just as green at Giants Stadium as it is at Lambeau, all fans have something to bitch about.

NFL Rankings

I have been absent from these first two weeks, I know, but that shall change. I don't need tonights game to rank the top ten in the NFL, as right now neither the Bengals or Steelers would be on it. I think we know the few top teams right now anyway.

1. Denver Broncos
2. Houston Texans
3. Seattle Seahawks
4. New Orleans Saints
5. Chicago Bears
6. Kansas City Chiefs
7. Miami Dolphins
8. San Francisco 49ers
9. Green Bay Packers
10. New England Patriots

Now, why is a 2-0 team below a couple 1-1 teams? Because the Patriots aren't very good is the simple answer. They've played two poor games against two teams that probably won't even combine for 11 wins. The Packers went blow for blow with the Niners in week one then blew the Redskins out of Wisconsin crying. I know the Niners looked terrible last night but playing in Seattle is no easy task. I expect major changes in the rankings going forward, it is only two games in. But I'd be surprised if Denver drops far below two or even three all season.
Notice the champion Ravens are missing. They look terrible two weeks in and my Giants aren't much better (if not worse).
We should soon see Atlanta make their way on also.

Opening game!

I almost missed it, such a busy day...but here we go the 2013 NFL season kicks off on NBC tonight!

We have a strange start as scheduling conflicts with the Orioles have pushed the Ravens out of town and into Denver. Let's be honest, this is not the team that won it all last year at all and I expect a different game than the double OT thriller we saw in the playoffs. I like Denver to win and keep on winning.

Denver 34-24

Concerts

We went to see Zac Brown Band last night at the Meadows in Hartford (technically the Comcast Theater but it will always be The Meadows to me). I used to go to quite a bit of shows pre kids and we want to start hitting one or two a year again, then I started thinking about the shows I've seen..and here it is

Bob Seger with John Hiatt opening (Hartford Civic Center)

Creed with Sevendust opening (New Haven Coliseum)

104 fest featuring Sevendust, Creed, Veruca Salt and about 20 other bands I don't remember (Meadows Music Theater, Hartford)

Lynyrd Skynyrd with Deep Purple opening (we arrived late and missed Ted Nugent...Meadows Music Theater, Hartford)

Limp Bizkit with Godsmack and DMX opening (Hartford Civic Center)

Gargantua Soul and Swift (Hubbard Park, Meriden)

Pearl Jam with Sleater Kenny opening (Great Woods Music Theater, Mansfield,MA)

Ozzy Osborne with Rob Zombie opening (Hartford Civic Center)

Blues Traveler (New Haven Green)

Pearl Jam with some band I don't remember (Meadows Music Theater, Hartford)

Velvet Revolver with Hoobastank opening (Bridgeport Arena)

Green Day with Jimmie Eat World (Hartford Civic Center)

Meatloaf with Cyndi Lauper opening (Mohegan Sun Arena)

Guns n Roses with Mix Master Mike opening ( Hartford Civic Center)

Pearl Jam with another band I don't remember...(Meadows Music Theater, Hartford)

Lynyrd Skynyrd with .38 special (Oakdale Theater, Wallingford Ct)

Keith Urban with Jake Owen opening (Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville)

Pearl Jam with Band of Horses (Hartford Civic Center)

Zac Brown Band with some suck opener that I never heard the name of (Meadows Music Theater, Hartford)

I tried to go in order but I'm sure I failed. The only thing I know for sure was Bob Segar was my first concert.

This is weird...

Means nothing but I've been playing Madden a lot lately and in the last five seasons the NFC Champion has either been Seattle (3 times) or the Giants (2 times). Seattle is 2-1 in the big game, NY is 1-1. The Patriots have been there twice (both times against Seattle and winning once), Chiefs once (loss to NY), Colts once (beat NY), and Houston once (lost to Seattle).
I'm addicted to Franchise mode, you pick a team and you are the GM, Coach, players. You fill the depth chart, compare players, offer contracts, sign free agents, and even draft fictional players. What makes it weird is after a few seasons you have a lot of players that aren't even real. Weird.

NFL Time!!!

With pre season officially kicking off tonight, I feel it is time to finalize my picks and get them out there. Personally, I have to say, I feel more optimistic about the Giants this year than I have in a while, I really feel they have the NFC East this year. I see a few teams that were in the playoffs last year not there this year, and maybe one or two new faces (or a former perennial playoff team back to form).  Toughest Division this year will be either the NFC South or East, walk in division winners will be New England and Green Bay, I don't see much, if any competition in the AFC East and the Packers are so far above the mediocre competition. Cutler being in a contract year could mean something for the Bears but I still see GB winning the North by at least two games.

The Super Bowl in cold weather....won't be an issue for either Conference winner, and as I said before I see a rematch from years gone by, with possibly similar results. Let's get to it.


AFC East- I really like what Miami has done but their schedule in completely unfair, they could easily start 1-4 before getting into winnable games (Cle,Ind,Atl,NO, Balt) to start. The Jets could easily start as bad as 0-9 but there are a few winnable divisional games in there to start but first half has NO,NE(2) ,ATL,PITT, CIN. The Pats, as usual as a decently easy schedule and even with missing two TE's they will easily win the East.

New England Patriots 11-5 (3)
Miami Dolphins 8-8
New York Jets 5-11
Buffalo Bills 2-14

AFC North- Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cincinnati...all playoff teams? Maybe. The Steelers haven't really shown great improvement this offseason, the offensive line and pass protection remains an issue and Cincy and Baltimore carry a better defense. I don't think the Ravens are even close to the team they were last February and will be struggling to race the Bengals to a division win.

Baltimore Ravens 11-5 (4)
Cincinnati Bengals 10-6 (5)
Pittsburgh Steelers 8-8
Cleveland Browns 4-12

AFC South- This could be a tough division race, I like the Colts if Luck continues to develop quickly. Of all the young QBs in the league right now I still think Luck will be the most successful (although Kap is off to a quick start). The Texans are on the verge of being the new Chargers, a 12+ game winner that goes nowhere in the playoffs and I have no faith in them for January.

Houston Texans 13-3 (1)
Indianapolis Colts 10-6 (6)
Tennessee Titans 7-9
Jacksonville Jaguars 2-14

AFC West- Maybe the only division worse than the AFC East but with Alex Smith and Coach Reid in KC and a new start for the Chargers things could get tough. I really, really like big things to happen for Manning and the Broncos, I think this is their year.

Denver Broncos 12-4 (2)
Kansas City Chiefs 9-7
San Diego Chargers 7-9
Oakland Raiders 3-13

AFC Wild Card

(6) Indianapolis Colts at (3) New England Patriots   Pats win
(5) Cincinnati Bengals at (4) Baltimore Ravens        Bengals win

AFC Divisional

(5) Cincinnati Bengals at (1) Houston Texans             Texans win
(3) New England Patriots at (2) Denver Broncos         Broncos win

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP

Denver Broncos at Houston Texans            Broncos win the AFC


NFC East- Start every team in this division as 1-1 because this division of hard fought rivals are going to all split their games against each other. I love what the Giants have done in the draft and free agency, and have made more improvements than any other team in their division. They want to play the Super Bowl at home this year and have proved it to their fans. RG3? Down year, not as bad as Cam's sophomore effort but not as good as his rookie year. Big question mark in Dallas, they have the talent to be a 12 win team but can they play together for 16 games.

New York Giants 11-5 (4)
Washington Redskins 9-7
Dallas Cowboys 8-8
Philadelphia Eagles 5-11

NFC North- Green Bay all day. Sure, the Vikes have gotten a boost from a reborn AP but the Pack have Rodgers and that trumps all. I don't know what to think of the Lions and Bears, they could each win 6 or 10. To me, the only constant in the North is the Pack, everything else in a pure guess. The question for Green Bay is can they beat San Fran and NY? These teams have been an absolute thorn in the side the past few years and they have to pull them out. That LB crew has got to cover that middle and Rodgers needs better protection against these fast defensive fronts and LB's. They do that and January is their month to own.

Green Bay Packers 13-3 (1)
Chicago Bears 8-8
Minnesota Vikings 8-8
Detroit Lions 6-10

NFC South- Things are changing in the south, and number one is the Saints will be back to form this year, offensively anyway. I'm still not convinced on their defense to stop teams in their division like the Falcons and Panthers but they will return to the playoffs. The Falcons are a curious team, a winner that just can't get that one last step. Can they beat the Packers or 49ers in the playoffs? How about the Panthers? They hinge on the arm of Newton,if he can keep mistakes to a minimum this team can win 9 games. Tough, tough race...

Atlanta Falcons 12-4 (3)
New Orleans Saints 11-5 (5)
Carolina Panthers 8-8
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-12

NFC West- The division of defense. I like the 49ers and the Seahawks...and I kind of like the Rams to be a real pain in the ass, even the Cards play good defense they just don't have a QB who can lead. The top teams are led by young QBs who looked great last year, but can they repeat that success? Can the 49ers climb to a third straight NFC Championship? Eh...not likely.

San Francisco 49ers 12-4 (2)
Seattle Seahawks 11-5 (6)
St.Louis Rams 7-9
Arizona Cardinals 3-13

 NFC Wildcard

(6) Seattle Seahawks at (3) Atlanta Falcons         Seahawks win
(5) New Orleans Saints at (4) New York Giants  Giants win


NFC Divisional

(6) Seattle Seahawks at (1) Green Bay Packers    Packers win
(4) New York Giants at (2) San Francisco 49ers   Giants win

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP

New York Giants at Green Bay Packers     Green Bay Packers win the NFC


SUPER BOWL

Denver Broncos vs. Green Bay Packers

Once again the Broncos old man will take on the Packers young slinger....same results? I say, yes. I'm picking Peyton Manning to lead the Broncos back to glory over the Packers in as close as a match as Elway and Favre gave us in 1997.


 

NFL Picks coming....

I printed out a grid style schedule, went over each game marking wins and losses, put together playoff scenarios and keep coming to the same conclusion....I see a Super Bowl rematch from years ago. Different players, same teams. But only if things work right. The AFC team I'm locking up, it's the NFC that figures on seeding. How many big defense, mobile QB teams my projected winner has to go through is a factor.
I'm doing it one more time, but I think playing in a cold weather stadium will be just fine for the Super Bowl teams.

Things That Are Not In the U.S. Constitution

No God in the Constitution? Next you're going to tell me our founding fathers didn't print "In God We Trust" on money.

http://www.usconstitution.net/constnot.html

Teaser

I'm starting to look over teams schedules and draft picks/free agent signings. Last year was the first time I didn't correctly pick at least one conference champ and I don't want that to become a trend.
Teaser....the Jets, Cardinals, and Browns won't make the playoffs.

I am the downfall of society

I know I'm not good about blogging, but this news is so good I had to get on here to spread the word! I am the downfall of society!! Amazing, right? To think of the billions of people in America only I am the sole cause of its downfall. I am honored. Some background perhaps?

 Sure, why not. I saw a picture on the dreaded Facebook that Dunkin' Donuts is now going to offer a sandwich made from a glazed donut with egg and bacon inside. Of course there were thousands of comments saying how this is disgusting, nasty, a heart attack for breakfast, etc etc.

 Now, it isn't enough for people to say "wow, I'd never eat that, looks gross" no..it becomes "I hope whoever eats that dies". So of course I commented with this "of course I'd try it, CT keeps raising taxes on smokes and alcohol so this sandwich is all I have left". What hate I drew, it was simply amazing. I was told this by a woman "you smoke, drink, and eat this crap? You are what is destroying America, you make our healthcare horrible, you are the downfall of society!!!" Now, maybe a normal person would be upset by this, I don't know as I am far from normal. I responded in this way "I am the downfall of society? Serious? That is amazing! I had no idea that the country was so wrapped up in me! I am honored beyond belief and thank you greatly for filling me in. Thank you so much, I really appreciate this :)". Now, maybe I'm not wired like most people but I could not believe the response she sent back, she was angry. I said thank you and showed my appreciation and she got mad at me, why? She got very mad and wished me harm..."Screw you, I hope you choke on that disgusting sandwich and get lung cancer..oh wait, no I don't because then I would have to spend my money on your cancer because you are an inconsiderate asshole". So, now this wonderful woman was offering to cover my medical bills? Crazy, right? Only one way to reply to that..."Thanks for offering to cover any medical bills I may have, but rest assured I think I have any future issues figured out, I've been watching a lot of Breaking Bad lately".
 The back and forth kind of wrapped up after that, and I became uninterested. But this brings forth another point for me...when did people start getting so mad at smokers?

 I do want to say, for the record, that I actually quit smoking a while ago. I enjoy the occasional cigar or do bum a smoke once or twice a month but, why the anger? The local news channel has been posting a lot of articles lately to cause smoking debate. There was one that Starbucks was going to ban smoking within 25 of their doors. People loved the idea. They said they were tired of walking through a "wall of smoke" to get a cup of coffee. Has anyone actually walked through a wall of smoke? I've done a lot of traveling over the past 16 years and can honestly say I have never seen a gang of smokers in front of a Starbucks or any other business. Some suggested that smoking should be illegal and all things bad for us should be illegal, like in Demolition Man. In that movie all bad things are illegal, including the exchange of bodily fluids. Kissing and even sex were illegal because they spread sickness and unwanted children. Is this really what people want or are my fellow CT citizens crazy? Does anyone else believe in "sin tax"? Raising taxes on cigarettes, alcohol, fattening foods until people can no longer afford them? Or like what King Bloomburg tried to do? Making large surgary drinks illegal in NYC? The way I see it, this is America and if I want to suck down bacon with a can of beer while smoking I have every right to.
Yes, I am an American Asshole, and proud of it.

NFL Dream Team

The one question every sports fan asks/gets asked the most...who is your dream team?
Here is my number one rule...only pick players that you have seen play. Boom. I will be using a 4-3 defense, and pick the O Line as a whole. I will have starters only for right now. Let the games begin...

Quarterback- I'm wrestling with Montana, Manning, and Brady as my starter...I love Peyton but sometimes he fails too often in a tough spot but he is a better leader than any other QB I've seen. He could win with anyone. But, I think I want the original Joe Cool...I'm taking Joe Montana

Runningback- Hands down Barry Sanders. Fuck Emmit, Tomlinson, and Peterson they can't hold a candle to Mr.Sanders. I'd probably put Tomlinson as second but this is starters only...

Fullback- Gotta go Moose. Imagine Barry with Moose guiding him..and wait until you see the o line. Barry could hit 300 yards in one game.

Wide Receiver-  Okay, need two. First is no doubt, Jerry Rice. How to compliment him? Big deep threat? Moss, maybe? So many to choose from..Megatron, Andre Johnson, Steve Smith, Welker, Reed, Fitzgerald. Screw it, I'm going Larry Fitzgerald. Say what you will this guy deserves it.

Tight End- Gates or Gonzalez? Maybe Jason Witten? No, Tony Gonzalez, definitely.

O Line- Best line I've ever seen spanned the entire late nineties and belonged to the Denver Broncos. These guys made anyone a 1,000 yard runner. The 1997 Denver Offensive line is a model for all teams to follow.

Defensive End- Need to pick just one more because Reggie is a lock. I'm not taking Strahan..I'm putting Bruce Smith ahead of him.

Defensive Tackle- Okay, John Randle and who else? Oh, Sapp..duh.

Linebackers- On the outside I want LT and Ray Lewis, then put Urlacher in the middle. I dare anyone to go to the middle of the field.

Cornerbacks- Charles Woodson is a lock and I'm thinking Champ Bailey across from him.

Safety- Troy and Ed Reed. Who else could you have? Maybe Lynch but to me no one is above Troy and Reed.

Kicker- Adam Vinateri is known to be a lock kicker, but seriously..with Montana, Rice, Barry I'm not worried about kicking.

Punter- Does this matter? Nobody is moving on this D anyway. Jeff Feagles. Why not?  Punters are rather streaky anyway but Feagles was extremely solid his last few years.

There it is. Boom. The unbeatable team. Well, maybe not my own rule forbids me from taking some great players. But, all of these guys in their prime makes one tough team.

Not fair

You know what isn't fair? Why do I have to be checked for weapons when going on an airplane? Why treat everyone like a potential criminal? It's ridiculous and an infringement on my rights.
Why can't I bring a knife on an airplane? I might need it for protection. How about a concert? Ball game?
The next time a gun owner complains that they shouldn't be treated like a potential threat, ask if they mind it when keeping an airplane safe. Should we not check anyone for weapons ever? Or is the stance of the NRA that we should be armed at all times?
Let's just never background check anyone, ever. Let's just let people run around armed wherever they want, what's the worst that can happen?

Spam!!

I'd hate to put a capcha on here for comments but I'm getting 15 emails a day of comments from spammers. I don't even post that often anymore and most of the spam is on posts that are month old. Driving me crazy! I just saw that Yellow Fringe added one so maybe I should too. Now, just to find where that option is...

I'm loving this off season

For one reason only; the destruction of the New York Jets. I usually wouldn't take great satisfaction in a non rival team rebuilding but loud mouth Rex and his fans have made me a Jet hater.  They have lost one of the best safeties in the NFL to the Colts, lost their RB to the Titans, TE to the Dolphins, and are on the verge of trading their best player because they don't think they'll be able to resign Revis after next season. Ah, the Jets and Iggles rebuilding in the same year...can it get any better?
After two playoff seasons all I heard from Jets fans was they are the team of the future in New York and the Giants are on the decline, that Sanchez is way better than Eli and more players want to play for Rex rather than Coughlin. I'm the first to admit the Giants are not a consistent team, they can go from 8-1 to 10-6 any season and it wouldn't shock me. But, they have a good system and are contenders every year. But do we hear Coughlin running around declaring his team to be the best? Nope. They win the title in 2011 and Tom says "we stunk last year, we won the Super Bowl but we were bad during the season, that needs to change". Rex loses the AFC title and declares he has the best team in the NFL.
Enjoy your last season as a Head Coach, Rex.

WR shake-ups

The next NFL season is already starting as we have some big play WRs making moves. The Ravens have sent Anquon Boldin to their Super Bowl challenger the Niners and the Seahawks traded for Percy Harvin. The NFC West could be wild again.
Also, the Giants have made Victor Cruz a RFA and placed a first round tender on him. Any team that offers Cruz a contract will have to allow the Giants to match and if they can't and lose Cruz the other team had to give up their first round pick. Top receivers are making about 10 million a year...would you give up that much and a first round pick for Cruz? The Packers and Steelers each have a WR out on the market could Cruz end up in one of those towns? Probably not...Cruz recently fired his agent and hired Eli Mannings agent. The Giants and Cruz wish to do business with each other but Cruz's agent wanted to test the waters and see what other teams would offer, the Giants best option was to take the risk.
I know it seems that Eli makes the receiver, not the other way around but they haven't had a big play guy like Cruz before and they need his speed out there.

To the extreme!

Extremists have their reasons, and they follow all different religions. You can't bash all Muslims for the actions of some, just as you can't bash all Christians for the actions of a few.

Another sad day in Connecticut

Last night around 7:30 the State Police issued an Amber alert for two young boys taken from their daycare by their Grandmother then all three went missing. Around 11 last night the alert was canceled as Police had found the bodies of all three dead at a park in Preston Connecticut.
The Grandmother left a suicide note.
The boys were six months and two, and were victims of a double murder/suicide. The family says the Grandmother was bi polar and has had mental issues for a long time.
Guess what...she didn't kill them with a stick.
Absolutely horrific story. I don't know if this link will work but it's easy enough to Google if need be. How anyone can shoot a six month old baby is beyond me, plus a two year old. It was also the two year olds birthday.

http://m.wfsb.com/w/news/story/85909359/

Another good citizen

Surprise, surprise she has a record but let's give her a gun anyway...

Woman threatens mass shooting at college in New Haven

A East Haven woman was arrested after investigators said she made a threat that she was going to perform a mass shooting at Gateway Community College.

Read more: http://wfsb.m0bl.net/r/1evfxv

Buccaneers Gathering Information After Da’Quan Bowers Arrested

It doesn't say anywhere in the Constitution that you can't bring a gun on an airplane, I checked. So, I guess he was within his rights as a gun owner right?
I hope you all know I'm joking. But, such is the logic of gun nuts who say the Constitution doesn't say they can't own military style weapons.

http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/02/19/buccaneers-gathering-information-after-daquan-bowers-arrested-at-laguardia/#.USOu2p4Z7bw.mailto

That's true

Top Ten

Someone on Facebook mentioned that this Super Bowl was good but not great, I had to disagree, and said it's in my top ten of Super Bowls that I've seen. So, then I had to think about what Super Bowls I've seen and how I would rank them.
I have seen 22 Super Bowls but not all of those have I seen the whole way through, some just weren't entertaining. I saw bits and pieces of Bucs and Raiders, I had no interest, and just the first half of Broncos and Falcons (we knew it wouldn't be close). I remember sticking it out for Niners/Chargers and one of the Dallas/Buffalo but I was very young at the time...well, like 12. So, here are the ten best Super Bowls I've seen. I attempted to rank them but not sure if I can.
You will notice one thing...win or lose the Patriots play entertaining Super Bowls.

10. SB 31 Green Bay 35 NE 21- It was a 14 point win but the first half was close and historically, you have to love the Lombardi going home for the first time in 29 years.

9. SB 25 NYG 20 Buffalo 19- I'd rank this one higher, but truth be told I didn't see a lot of it, I was only 11. Plus, I didn't understand football as much at that time. I did see the play that mattered. Wide right.

8. SB 32 Denver 31 Green Bay 24- The score was close but I remember always feeling this Denvers game to lose. Maybe this should be higher but I love comebacks and that's what I put ahead of this.

7. SB 47 Baltimore 34 SF 31- The first half was all Ravens and until the power went out it seemed it would stay that way. An amazing rally by the Niners made this flop into a tightly played fourth quarter.

6. SB 43 Pitt 27 Arizona 23- Again,a tale of two halves. The Cards avoided a beat down and even led with minutes left on the clock. For the second year in a row we had a winning last second drive to win, you have to love that.

5. SB 34 StLouis 23 Tenn 16- This game came two yards away from going into OT. We expected the greatest show on turf to put up huge points but the Titans D came to play and made this a pretty good game.

4. SB 38 NE 32 Carolina 29- The fourth quarter flurry. After a tight three quarters with not a lot of scoring, these teams went nuts at the end going score for score before the Pats finally put it away.

3. SB 46 NYG 21 NE 17- The rematch. The Giants took a quick lead and it almost seemed they were going to roll but the tides turned and the Pats took over and in the third it looked like they were going to roll. Then the Giants chipped away with field goals and took over again with just a minute left. A huge 4th down conversion made it look like the Pats were the team of destiny but a Hail Mary fell short as NY held on.

2. SB 36 NE 20 StLouis 17- The start of the Patriots empire and arguably the biggest upset in Super Bowl history. The Rams were expected to blow out the Pats and their new QB, Tom Brady. Brady looked good after taking over for an injured Bledsoe, but to match with the Rams? No way. Bellichick and Crennel worked together to come up with a defensive scheme to stop the high powered Rams and it worked. It all came down to Adam Vinateri knocking in the winning points after Brady led the Patriots into field goal position. But...was it the best version of David vs Goliath we would ever see? Nope, the Patriots would be in that situation again but this time they'd be Goliath...

1. SB 42 NYG 17 NE 14- I may be biased but I think this has to be considered the biggest upset and the plays that led to it were as legendary as the game itself. The 18-0 Patriots were putting up 40 points a game, the Giants limped into the playoffs but were playing with the confidence of an undefeated team. After the Patriots took a 14-10 lead with just over two minutes to play,a series of miracles got NY on top. The Giants defense pounded Goliath all day keeping Brady totally off time. Then the last drive...the Giants faced a 4th and 1 and Jacobs powered his way, 3rd and 4 Toomer made the grab, Asante Samuel dropped an interception, the 3rd and 7 near sack followed by the Tyree helmet catch, Steve Smith getting the catch and muscling for the extra yard on 3rd and 11, then finally hitting Plaxico Burress in the corner of the end zone for the win. I don't think we will see a game or a drive like that for a long time. Best Super Bowl ever.

Super Sunday!

The greatest and saddest game of the year is here. The game we wait all year for that is also the end of football until September.

Now, I don't want to say that one team doesn't have a chance because anything can happen but....I don't think the Ravens can win this game. I know it's the last game for Lewis and that could be a big factor but with the offense and defense the Niners are packing this could be a not so interesting Super Bowl. Could be.

Nerves could take over the first half as we have two Quarterbacks and two coaches making their first trip to the big game but that doesn't always mean anything. I expect a low scoring first half, maybe like 10-10 at halftime but for the third quarter to heat up.
In the end, I'm taking the 49ers to win 27-17.

Can somebody explain this to me

This is a serious question, I'm not trying to belittle anyones beliefs but why do people always say this:
"God will never give you more than you can handle"
What about that is true? People die from accidents and sickness every day. People commit suicide because they can't handle the cards they've been dealt. I can understand in hard times trying to convince yourself that you will get through, but I usually say "this too shall pass". Whether it passes in a good way or bad way, it shall pass.
I don't know, maybe I'm being picky, just wondering if anyone uses this phrase or any other inspiration to get through the dark days.

I know it's old, but let's not forget who the Baggers follow

I received an email yesterday containing quotes from Pat Buchanan, and the person who sent it supported this mans ideas.
Just another reminder to pay attention. I know people who vote Republican just because of one issue, I guess that's fine, but know the type of people you are supporting. Is your one belief worth it?

http://dailycurrant.com/2012/11/07/buchanan-white-america-dead/

I struggle with this too

NRA was pro-gun control when it came to Black Panthers

http://thegrio.com/2013/01/11/nra-was-pro-gun-control-when-it-came-to-black-panthers/

Rush for Revis?

The New York Jets have said there is a strong chance the Jets will trade All Pro Cornerback Darrel Revis before he can become a free agent.
Revis is coming off an ACL injury but could still fetch a pretty penny.
I'd love to see him stay in NY but just change locker rooms, but there are a lot of teams that could use a shutdown corner. It comes down to who can offer the Jets the most.
Giants can offer RB Andre Brown and maybe disgruntled DE Osi Umenyiora, maybe a second round pick....
If NYG can draft Teo and get Revis....it's on

Championship Sunday

The second biggest day in the NFL post season is upon us. A rematch in the AFC (first time since Broncos/Browns in 86 and 87) and the Falcons hosting the 49ers as they also make a repeat trip.

Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots- I'm starting to lean heavily on Baltimore but I can't shake the feeling that New England will not be denied. I think I'm going with my gut and taking the Ravens to go on to lose the Super Bowl. There is this...John Harbaugh is 0-2 in the AFC Championship, Bill is 5-1. But...27-24 Ravens

San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons- Another Conference Championship game for the Niners, first for Smiths Falcons. The Falcons have been the #1 seed twice in three years and have been a dominant regular season team. They've been knocked out last two times by the eventual champion, and this should make three. Wilson and the Seahawks made the Falcons look silly in the second half last week, and showed a lot of guts in that near comeback. I think the Niners come out on all cylinders and wreck Atlanta from the start. 49ers 33-27.

That's true

Still won't make sense to the baggers

Well, guns are protected by the Constitution but so is equal rights....

Ohhhhhhh

It will happen

The parents of the Sandy Hook Elementary victims are forming a non profit group and standing up against guns. How long until Rush or Ann call them psycho or bitches or anti American?
Much like the 9/11 widows at some point sympathy will wear off and the right will attack.

Just looked back

In my preseason picks I had Denver and Houston in the AFC title game and Green Bay and Atlanta in the NFC both could happen...holy shit.

Divisional Round

Last week I went 2-2, eh it happens.

Baltimore Ravens at Denver Broncos- Last week Ray Lewis played his last home game, I think this will be his last game ever. I do expect at least one upset this weekend, but I don't think this is it. I don't think the Ravens on again off again offense will get many chances to score, and I like Manning at home. 27-18 Broncos.

Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers- Best game of the weekend, right here. I have been going back and forth on this one. San Fran is at home, and they play one nasty defense, we've seen them beat the Packers once already which is what leans me towards Green Bay. Beating a good team twice is hard and I know defense wins championships (I will use this saying later) but I'm sticking with my preseason pick. Green Bay over San Fran 26-21.

Houston Texans at New England Patriots- I can't trust the Texans. Last time they faced the Patriots they were clearly out matched and over powered. I know I just went through this about beating a good team twice but you can't apply the same logic in every playoff game. Texans keep it closer but still don't win. 28-24 Patriots.

Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons- Defense wins championships. Ha,I said it. I am on the fence about this one...I know that Seattle D is fierce and fast but facing a dome team at home is always a challenge. If they shut down the run the Falcons may have trouble. The question is, what does Atlanta do to stop losing in the playoffs? They can stop the Seattle offense if they stop Lynch. It comes down to defensive play makers and a big part of Seattles defense is being home in the rain with noise. I'm going with Atlanta, they are at home and can stop this young offense. Atlanta 23-14.

So...I have the Pats going to Denver for the AFC title and Green Bay going to Atlanta for the NFC title. Packers and Broncos? With no Terrell Davis this time.

The perfect school

Here it is, my concept to keep schools safe. High concrete walls lined with barbed wire to keep out criminals. Guards in towers to take down anyone who looks suspicious. We will also have guards patrolling the halls and kids won't be allowed to stroll the halls. Bathrooms will be in the classroom, and each room will be locked in case there is an intruder.
On top of this, I propose that every citizen is issued a gun at birth. We shall install a shoot first law, I feel this will bring crime down 90%.
I bet Daddy will think twice about slapping Mommy when Junior pulls out his Glock. People are too sensitive, I see a world where five year old Billy blows away his father with out pause, after all, it's the American way.
The only way to fight guns is with guns, just like the NRA has told us.
What a glorious world.

How not to run a team

If anyone cares, here is Francesa talking about the NY Jets press conference. Rejoice, Pats fans, the Jets won't be a problem for years.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97sEQwQXub8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Wild Card Wrap-up

Wasn't a very wild weekend. The Texans, Packers, and Ravens had dominant wins (although the Colts didn't go quietly). Wildest game was the Redskins jumping out to a quick 14 point lead only to be shut out the rest of the night.
What happened to Bob?
He went out in the first quarter and I thought he was done, but they sent him back out. Only to be injured again in the fourth. Why risk your franchise player when he's so young? We quickly all saw which top pick will be more successful, the one who won't be constantly injured. Andrew Luck.
This was my first chance to see him, what a beast. Luck looks like he could pick up Bobby and snap him in half. Griffin will be injured by a Cornerback making a tackle, Luck will injure a Cornerback. The Colts couldn't get into the end zone, but I think they have a brighter future than the Skins.
The Bengals....I give Dalton another shot before he's lumped in with Romo and Rivers, QBs that can't win in the playoffs. Matt Ryan is in that club too and will have quite a challenge with the Seattle defense.
The Packers did exactly what we thought they would, no shocks there.
I'm sticking with Green Bay as my NFC pick but this next game could be trouble. Most certainly whoever wins Saturday nights game will be the Super Bowl Champ.

Wild Card Weekend!!!!

What do me and Eli Manning have in common? Both watching the playoffs from home....oh well

Anyway, we have four excellent wild card games this weekend, including an excellent divisional rivalry.
This preseason I picked the Texans and Packers in the Super Bowl, I'm sticking with just one of those teams now...maybe. Right now I'm torn between the Niners and Packers and have very little faith in the Falcons. I have no faith left in the Texans and believe in Manning and Brady to face off, but let's see which team shows the most motivation. Anything can happen in the NFL.

Cincinnati Bengals at Houston Texans- Houston has fallen hard lately and goes into the playoffs with no momentum, unlike the Bengals. We know from the last two champs that it isn't a great regular season that wins the crown anymore, it's who is hot. Call me nuts but I'm taking the hot team. Bengals could end the Texans run early, 26-21 Bengals.

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers- It will not happen again, Rodgers cannot let it happen. If Green Bay goes one and done again the writers will jump all over him, despite the fact he carried his team all season. Shut down the run and shut down Minnesota, that's it. Do the Packers have a great defense? No, but they have only one job, stop Peterson. If Rodgers strikes fast and gets the Pack out to a quick lead they win, and they will. Packer fans can get a plane ticket to San Fran now. 31-24 Packers.

Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens-I went against the hot team for my Packers pick, can I here? Will Ray Lewis announcing his retirement motivate the Ravens? I think they drew the perfect opponent to get back into the swing of things. The young Luck has a welcome to post season NFL experience against a hungry Ravens defense. Ravens play fast and hard and get the win 24-13.

Seattle Seahawks at Washington Redskins-The hottest teams in the NFC meet in what could be the best game this weekend. On one hand the Skins are at home, but Seattle has a better defense, but that defense is better in Seattle than not. I can see either team winning. Just taking the home team for no other reason than they are home and super hot. Redskins 20-17.

Bengals, Packers, Ravens, and Redskins move on but how many of the wild card teams will get past the top seeds? Maybe just one....

Knowledge versus Wisdom

Sounds simple. There are many people in politics that have knowledge but lack wisdom