Week 16 picks

Hey everyone,

Its been really enjoyable writing articles, posting them, and making picks for the latter half of 2009. 2010 will bring about new and exciting adventures and things. Can't wait. So far on the overall records (which I do not know of the top of my head, because my partner who writes on the site Jeff Rupprecht is the one who keeps track of the picks and the records. He informed me that I'm two games down to him, so these next two weeks are big)

Buffalo vs Atlanta
For those of you who follow the site, and I say this week after week, Buffalo dissapoints me week in and week out, and I refuse to pick them, so I'm going to stand strong by my statement and pick the hometown Birds

Baltimore at Pittsburgh
I will NEVER pick against the Steelers. This is a bold statement but if the Steelers make the playoffs, they win the Super Bowl. I believe they got one of the best teams in the league despite their record. This game means everything, and we have Ben at full health, so I think the Stillers come out with the win

Kansas City at Cincinnati
Easy pick. Chiefs suck. Cassell was a one year wonder with the Pats. Palmer and Chad Ochocinco get past the Chiefs.

Oakland at Cleveland
Derrick Anderson comes back to face his former team, but comes up with a loss. This will be the second time I pick the Browns, but I think their new found run game runs past Oakland. Oakland can't find a QB, and that spells trouble, so Browns get the W

Seahawks vs Packers
Aaron Rodgers and company are coming off a crushing loss to our hometown team the Steelers. We can all thank Mike Wallace for that great catch! Pack get to go home to the frozen combines of Lambeau Field. Their will be lots of Lambeau leaps in the game. Easy win for the Packers

Houston at Miami
Miami wins a close game, and keeps their hopes alive for a playoff spot. Next week you will lose to the Steelers though, and thus paving the way for the Steelers to make the playoffs

Carolina at Giants
Giants in a route. I don't care you beat the Vikings last week, your QB still sucks, and your a one headed monster with Steve Smith on offense.

Jags at New England
Theirs a reason why the Pats always win in December, Their magic keeps rolling. Jags will not come up north, bare the cold, wind, and snow in New England and beat Tom Brady and the Pats

Bucs at Saints
Saints will not lose two straight at home this year

St. Louis at Cards
Coach Terry I really hope I am wrong with this pick. I want your son and the Rams to win, but a one win football team going into Cardinal Stadium and beating the team that represented the NFC in the Super Bowl, I don't think is gonna happen. Sorry, really hope I am wrong!

Lions at49ers
Lions really suck, and they don't have a QB. Sorry, but your not gonna go in and beat San Fran. Vernon Davis you better give me a good game, because I want third place in my fantasy football league

Denver at Philly
Birds at home. Somehow year after year Andy Reid gets them to the NFC championship, but they can't get that Big W and win the whole thing

Jets at Indy
Even though Indy has locked up everything it can in the regular season, Jets do not go into Lucas Oil Field and win

Dallas at Washington
Big D goes into the Nation's capital and beats the Skins

Minnesota at Chicago
Vikings on the road. After the lackluster performance they put on display agaisnt the Panthers, they come back strong and put on a show and beat the Bears!

Sports News and Week 16 Picks by Jeff

One day removed from Christmas, there are already major stories hitting the sports world. First, I wake up to hearing Ron Artest falls down his stairs and can't make the trip to Sacramento. How the heck does the man fall down the stairs? Phil Jackson does his team a favor by letting them spend Christmas night at home and with their families. Well Ron Artest takes this gift from his coach and can't even carefully walk down his stairs. More developments will come from this incident.





In other news, Urban Meyer has just announced that he will step down as the coach for the University of Florida after their bowl game against the Cincinnati Bearcats. I think Tim Tebow has helped him realize that there is more to life than football. According to ESPN, a close source to Urban Meyer stated that his family's response to his resignation was, "We are glad to have our dad back." I am glad that Pitt is not playing the Gators in the Sugar Bowl because one thing is for sure, in Meyer's last game, his team is going to "unleash hell" on the Bearcats.



You have to feel bad for Albert Haynesworth, he is playing his heart out each and every play, yet his coaches are allegedly against him! Oh wait, he just signed a 100 million contract this summer. Albert Haynesworth has been a problem his whole career, he stepped on a opponents head when his helmet was off, he has been in numerous fights during games, and former teammates have called him a cancer in the locker room. Haynesworth was sent home on Christmas Day because he was 20 minutes late to a meeting and he said, "What's wrong with being 20 minutes late? It was only my second time being late to a meeting and I get sent home, the coaches are against me." Well Big Baby, you are the leader of this team, you are the face of this franchise, you are being paid 100 million dollars to play on this football team!!!! You need to accept the consequences to being late to practice and understand that it's unacceptable. You have to lead your team, motivate them regardless of your record and try to win these final two games of the season.



Now to our Weekly Picks. Mark gained a game on me last week as he improved his record to 87 and 41. Meanwhile, I boosted my record to 89 and 39. With two weeks left, each game is so important.


Christmas Night Game
Chargers at Titans
With the Chargers on a 9 game win streak and playing for the second seed in the AFC Playoffs, I thought that they would send a strong message to the rest of the AFC that they are one of the best teams. Granted, the Titans were still playing for a playoffs seed, but their chances weren't looking so good. So, I went with the hot team, the Chargers.

Sunday's Games
Bills at Falcons
While both teams do not have a chance to make the playoffs, I think the Falcons will have more passion than the Bills to win this game. Does anyone seriously believe that TO will give it his all in this meaningless game???? I don't. Dirty Birds win by 10.


Chiefs at Bengals
How the heck did the Steelers lose to the Kansas City Chiefs???? I still don't understand how that debacle happened. The Bengals come back home after a heart breaking loss to the Chargers, and regroup as they will crush the Chiefs.


Raiders at Browns
Brady Quinn was doing some impressive things in Cleveland in the past weeks, but he ends up finishing the season in the Injured Reserved List. Jerome Harrison and Michael Bush will both have great games but it all comes down to the quarterbacks, which are?????? DOES ANYONE KNOW WHO WILL BE STARTING FOR THE BROWNS AND RAIDERS???? I think Mark and I both would get a look to be the starting quarterback for these two teams. This game is a tossup, but I will go with the Cleveland Browns because the Raiders can only beat good teams.


Seahawks at Packers.
The Packers lost on a last second play here in Pittsburgh. The Seahawks got blown out by the one win team, Buccaneers. The Packers are a very good team, potentially the team that represents the NFC in the Super Bowl. The Packers do not lose at home in December and will demolish the wingless Seahawks.


Texans at Dolphins
The Texans are looking for their first 9-7 record. This is a huge game for both teams, both having a 7-7 record, and looking for a winning season. While the Texans have been eliminated in the playoffs, the Dolphins still have an outside chance. Even though the Dolphins still have a chance at the playoffs, I believe that the Houston franchise really wants that winning record, finishing 9-7. Matt Schaubb and Andre Johnson are a top 5 combo in the NFL and they will have a huge day tomorrow. GO TEXANS!


Jaguars at Patriots
This is a tough game to pick, Tom Brady has been struggling and people are wondering if the dynasty is over. I really think Jacksonville can win this game, but as a Steelers fan, we need the Patriots to win to help the Steelers chances of making the playoffs.


Buccaneers at Saints
The Saints will bounce back after their first loss of the season against the sword less and boat less Buccaneers. Look for Drew Brees to have a 300+ passing yards and 4 or 5 touchdown passes.


Panthers at Giants
The Giants looked great against the Redskins, however it was against the Redskins. The Giants D which has struggled for a while, will face another depleted offense as Matt Moore and Jonathon Stewart attempt to put up points for the Carolina Panthers. Eli Manning will help the Giants beat the Panthers by 20+ points.


Ravens at Steelers
Steelers will beat the annoying Ravens tomorrow at Heinz Field and will try to help their chances of making the playoffs.


Rams at Cardinals
Rams suck, there is no other way to put it. Cards crush.


Lions at 49ers
As Stafford hit the IR, the Lions lost any chance they had to beat the 49ers. Mike Singletary has created new life in a once storied franchise. With Vernon Davis, Michael Crabtree and Frank Gore on offense, the 49ers will have way too many weapons for the Lions to stop.


Jets at Colts
Colts continue with their undefeated record and improve to 15-0.


Eagles at Broncos.
I absolutely hate everything that deals with Philadelphia. I must admit that I think the Eagles are a very good team, possible Super Bowl contenders. Additionally, Steelers fans need the
Broncos to lose this game, so I will be an Eagles fan for three hours tomorrow evening.


Cowboys at Redskins
Is there really any chance that the Redskins win at home this weekend? After watching the Giants absolutely embarrass them on national television last week, one would think that they would bounce back. However, this is a Redskins team that has only won 5 games. Tony Romo and the talented running backs for the Cowboys will help them get another big win and to help their chances on making the playoffs.


Vikings at Bears
Like I said in the previous game, the Redskins were embarrassed on national television but I doubt they will be able to respond against the Cowboys. Unlike the Redskins, the Vikings are a very strong team, and are poised to make a strong run in the playoffs. I think after the tough loss to the Panthers, the Vikings will come back and declaw the Bears.


Mark and I are really looking forward to our first show of the year, January 6th! We have Melquan Bolding as a guest and are also trying to get Colin Dunlap, Post Gazette Duquesne Basketball sports beat writer.


Other quick notes.
The Pitt Panthers pulled out a last minute victory over the basketball school North Carolina. Dan Hutchins made a 33 yard field goal with 55 seconds remaining in the game. Pitt finished the 2009 campaign with 10 wins and have a lot of key players returning for next season. Look for the Panthers to be ranked in the Top 15 next season.


Joe McKnight has been ruled ineligible in the Emerald Bowl Games against Boston College.


Daniel Alfredson has been ruled out for the next 4-6 weeks after receiving a big hit from Penguins forward Craig Adams.


The Olympics are less than 2 months away, and the hockey rosters are being released! Team Russia just released their roster and wow, they look very strong. Russia-Canada final? One can hope. Team USA and Team Canada are going to be releasing their rosters in the next few days, cant wait.


Thanks for reading.
Jeff

Week 15 Picks by Mark

Sorry we weren't able to get the Thursday and Saturday night games posted on time. We got done with finals, and were busy relaxing. Personally I did not watch much of the times, so that's ok, but here are the rest of my picks

Cardinals at Lions
Easy pick, Lions suck, and that high flying Cards offense are gonna fly past the Lions

Falcons at Jets
Just received a text that Matt Ryan and Michael Turner are playing. Falcons offense with the pass and the run too much for the Jets, slowly diminishing the Jets playoff chances

Texans at Rams
In somewhat of an upset, I'm going to go with the hometown team and the Rams. Gotta give a shout out to my boss Terry Smith. Athletic director at Gateway High school. His son Justin King plays on the rams. Go Rams baby!

Browns at Chiefs
Chiefs win this one. Two horrible teams playing each other, just going to pick the hometown team here

Pats at Bills
If you listen to our show, you know I do not like the Bills, and am not going to pick them here. Pats win

Dolphins at Titans
Chris Johnson is all that needs to be said here

Raiders at Broncos
Broncos win at Mile High

Bengals at Chargers
Chargers win at home

Bears at Ravens
Ravens win at home

Steelers at Packers
I really don't need to make this pick, because I will NEVER go against my Steelers baby

49ers at Eagles
Eagles win at home

Bucs at Seahawks
Bucs have to travel across the country into a cold Seattle. Seattle wins at home

Vikings at Panthers
Vikings on the road

Giants at Redskins
Redskins at home

Week 14 Picks by Jeff

With 4 weeks to go, I lead Mark 68-33 to 64-37. This week, we have so many different picks, so this could the determining week for who wins the weekly pick contest!

Check out the bottom of this article for instructions on how to participate in our Bowl Mania!!!

Tonight's Monday Night Football Game
Ravens at Packers
Jeff - Ravens
Mark - Packers
I hope that the Packers win so then the Steelers have a better chance at making the playoffs, but I think the Ravens are too strong for the Packers, even though it's in Green Bay.

Thursday Night Football
Both pick the Steelers, hopefully we end the 4 game losing streak.

Jets at Bucs
Jeff - Bucs. I believe that Sanchez won't be playing and the Bucs are due for a win.
Mark - Jets

Dolphins at Jaguars
Jeff - Dolphins. There is no such thing as home field advantage for the Jags, plus I am a believer in Chad Henne and Ricky Williams
Mark - Jaguars

Seahawks at Texans
Jeff - Seahawks. Dumb pick, but could be a big upset.
Mark - Texans

Redskins at Raiders
Jeff - Redskins. No way the Raiders can win two in a row!
Mark - Raiders

Chargers at Cowboys
Jeff - Chargers. Cowboys can't win in December, plus this Chargers team is on a roll.
Mark - Cowboys

Sunday Night Football
Eagles at Giants
Jeff - Eagles. Giants have had a few struggles this season, but with DeSean Jackson coming back, I see McNabb having a big day against my soft fantasy football defense.
Mark - Giants

Monday Night Football
Cardinals at 49ers
Jeff - Cardinals. Cards are better on the road than they are at home, plus Kurt Warner is finally finding his stud receiver Anquan Boldin, good things are happening in Phoenix.
Mark - 49ers


Common Picks
Colts over Broncos
Vikings over Bengals
Packers over Bears
Saints over Falcons
Ravens over Lions
Patriots over Panthers
Bills over Chiefs
Titans over Rams

Please continue to listen to our show on wdsr.org!
New Hours starting January 6, 2010
Wednesday 11-1
Call in for the show! (412) 396-2125

Upcoming Guests in the month of January
Ryan Burr, ESPN Anchor
Melquan Bolding, Sophomore Guard for the Duquesne Basketball team.
Ron Dick, Duquesne University Marketing Professor
Brandin Knight, Pitt Assistant Basketball Coach
Rob Madore, University of Vermont Goalie

How to join our Bowl Mania
1. Go to ESPN.com
2. Click the heading Fantasy
3. Under "Free Games to Play" click College Bowl Mania
4. Click Create Your Entry
5. Fill Out the Information, click the circle box titled, Straight, then complete form.
6. Under, Silverado America's Best Truck, click "My Groups"
7. In the search box, type Jeff and Mark Show, WDSR
8. Click the group's name and then type in the password, jeffandmarkshow
9. Congrats, you are in the group!!!!!!

GOOD LUCK!

Duquesne vs Pitt-The City Game

Two days from now, Duquesne plays one its biggest games on their schedule. The students will be marching as one up to the Mellon Arena, to watch the Dukes pound the Panthers to the ground, ending up with the big W! That's what I'm predicting. Yes Duquesne did not play well agaisnt Iowa or agaisnt any of the opponents in the tournament this past weekend down in North Carolina, but I'm saying they come out with a statement win, agaisnt the city rival Pitt.

As all of you know Pitt is having a down year. I mean its hard not to when you lose a National championship calibur team. Yes that's a bold statement, but if it weren't for a bonehead coach, making a stupid call, Pitt would've won the tournament. I know you can call me crazy, but if Pitt wants to get to that next level, Jamie has got to go. Yes I know everyone is crazy about the who Jamie Dixon era. He's a good coach, but he can't get to that next level. He's made the sweet 16, and elite 8, but just can't his team over the next level. He can recruit and has a nack for getting players, and turning them into good ball players. We should've jumped at Calipari when he was avaiable. Its a shame Skip Prosser couldn't come to Pitt, and its a shame he passed away at such a young age.

Enough of Pitt though. Duquesne is on the uprise. We all see this with Everhardt's recruiting, and the HUGE upset win agaisnt Xavier last year. Duquesne is going to be a force in the A-10 this year, with the possiblity of winning the whole thing in my oppinion. Its between them and Dayton this year. Dayton is at home, so its the BIG game on the schedule this year.

Enough of an intro, let's get to the game
First off-It would be a totally different game if that moron from Nichol's state hadn't injured one of best players Melquan Bolding. If any of you saw him play in the game agaisnt Nichols state, he was the best player on the floor, and scored 25 points with a broken wrist. I mean that shows he's a good player, and is going to be missed in this game terribly. He would be the best guard on the floor hands down in my oppinion. That's up for debate if any of you want to argue with me.

2nd- The forwards
I think all that needs to be said here is Pitt has Gary Mcghee. He's a horrid excuse for a division 1 center. He's just awful. Why he starts is beyond me. You have an all-american in high school in Dante Taylor that should be playing. Damian is going to have a party dancing all around Gary. Damian is too quick for Mcghee. Dexter Pittman had a big game against Pitt, going for 20 and 10 I believe. Well he had a double double at least. That's all that needs to be said I think. Damian is going to have a field day against Mcghee, so advantage Duquesne here. Other then Damian, we really have no size, so if Damian gets in foul trouble, Duquesne is going to have a rough ride. If you wanna see a big heavyweight battle, we should stick in Mike Williams, and have him go up against Pitt, just to spell Damian a few minutes.

3rd- I believe Pitt's guards are better than Duquesne's. Bill Clark is a proven talent if he's on, WATCH out, he'll rain three's all day on Pitt. Ashton Gibbs can also hit threes, as can Travon Woodall. Woodall is better than Eric Evans I believe, so advantage Pitt on the guards. Only a slight advantage though. If Pitt is on, and doesn't go down a ton of points, they have a great chance at winning. If they can't shoot, and they end up playing like they have the past 4 games, Pitt is going to roll over them. They need to feed off the huge crowd that's going to be packing the Mellon Arena, and the large student section that is going to make its appearance. The Red and Blue Crew will be loud and in charge, and ultimately with Duquesne coming out with the Big W! Thoughts or comments feel free to post them

Everyone please listen to the radio show. Every Monday from 12-1, WDSR.org Feel free to call in and express your oppinion. We'd be more then happy to hear from you

Week 11 Picks

For those of you who listen to the Jeff and Mark Show, you know that Mark and I make our weekly picks for the upcoming NFL week. So far, I have compiled a 48-22 record, while Mark is only 4 games back, with a record of 44-26. This week Mark and I both made some risky picks, but have to make some risky picks to make it fun.

Thanksgiving day has brought us some disappointing games the past few years and I tried to make it interesting by picking the Detroit Lions over the Green Bay Packers. I don't think this is very smart considering Matthew Stafford is hurt, but hey you never know what can happen.

Mark and I both picked the Cowboys over Oakland and the Giants over the Broncos.

This first game on Sunday brings two different views on the Miami and Buffalo game. Yes, Mark had stated on the show he would never pick the Bills again, but he went against his word and picked them. Hey, I am not going to stop him with that pick! ha. Anyways, I took Ricky Williams and Joey Porter over TO.

Indy at Houston. Prediction, Kris Brown misses a game tying field goal for the third consecutive week. I originially picked Houston becuase I believe that they are a really good team, but to make the picks more fun, I switched my pick to the undefeated Colts. Mark kept with his pick the Texans.

Arizona at Tennessee. This will be a great game this week, such great players on both teams. I believe VY and Chris Johnson have a field day over that Arizona defense. I think the Titans are one of the hottest teams in the NFL, would be a top team in the AFC if they didn't start 0-6. However, to back up Mark and his pick of the Cardinals, Kurt Warner should be healthy and Larry Fitzgerald is a top 2 WR in the NFL, debateable between him and Andre Johnson in my opinion. Anyways, it should be a high scoring game and I hope Tennessee wins!

The Monday Night Game has kept me up the past two nights, do I pick the Patriots or the undefeated Saints. On the show, I said that the Patriots are the best team in the NFL, and that they would beat the Saints. Even though I still believe the Patriots are the best team in the NFL, I just don't think they will win in New Orleans. I have a hard time seeing the Patriots D stopping the high powered Saints offense. I think they have too many weapons on offense and that the game is at home, is a huge advantage. Saints win by 3. Mark took the Patriots, and I can't really say that is a bad pick because I originally picked them. Should be a great game.



Other similar picks
Carolina Panthers over New York Jets
Seahawks over Rams
Falcons over Bucs
Bengals over Browns
Eagles over Redskins
Chargers over Chiefs
49ers Jaguars
Steelers over Ravens


Please listen to our show every Monday from 12-1 on wdsr.org

Mark's week 8 and 9 picks

Sorry for the late picks. I had meant to write down my picks, but was away all weekend and did not get a chance to. Jeff and I reviewed the picks on our weekly radio show today, but I will write them down for all of you that were not able to listen

Ravens at Bengals
In what may be an upset pick of sorts. I'm taking the Bengals. I have always been a fan of Carson Palmer. One of the VERY few players, that I like that have come out of USC. I've drafted him in fantasy the past few years, along with Chad Ochocinco. What a dissapointment they were last year, but a bit of a surprise with how well they are doing, but they beat the Ravens here for the second time this year

Packers at Bucs
This is a no brainer. The Pack in a landslide. The BUCS are an awful team, and they have a QB that I don't think any of us have heard of, or know where he came from. Aaron Rodgers leads an onslaught of a game

Dolphins at Pats
In another upset pick of sorts. I'm gonna go with the Wildcat offense and the Dolphins. Lately the Pats have struggled with the Dolphins, and this will continue, with the Dolphins getting the BIG W up in Foxboro!

Chiefs at Jags
Another awful game. Who would EVER want to watch this game, let alone go to it. Two just awful teams playing each other. You got a crybaby with a foul mouth of the one team, and two overrated QB's in the game. The Jags should be chanting we want Byron back, because once you let him go, their went the future of your franchise. I gotta go with the Jags, just because their at home

Texans at Colts
Pretty good game here, but its an easy pick. Colts. Texans have never won in Indy, and this trend will continue

Cardinals at Bears
Cardinals. Bears frankly I don't think are a very good team. Jay Cutler, I don't think you're very good either. Bears you gave up WAY too much to get him. Yes you beat the Steelers, but that was more of a collapse on the Steelers part, then the Bears deserving to win the game.

Redskins at Falcons
Ever since I picked the Redskins to beat the Eagles on Monday Night, I've realized what stupid pick that was, and am NEVER going to pick them again. Once again Jason Campbell is not a franchise QB. Jim Zorn needs fired. Falcons win

Lions at Seahawks
I was really tempted to pick the Lions here. Really was, because the Seahawks are frankly awful. They do have a decent QB in Hasselback, but they have UGLY jersies, and they play in the middle of nowhere. Seahawks win

Pathers at Saints
Pretty easy. Delhomme your career should be done. 9 INT's to start the year, your a terrible QB. Saints in a landslide

Titans at 49ers
49ers. Not really a believer in the Titans. Wasn't last year. Didn't think they were very good. Kerry Collins was frankly too old, and this year his age caught up to him. Vernon Davis is finally having his coming out party, after 6 years in the NFL. He will have another big game

Chargers at Giants
Have to go with the G men, and their defense. LT is washed up, Phil Rivers is an overrated QB. I mean with that offense and that defense, how haven't you won a Super Bowl yet, my goodness. Eli leads his team to victory

Cowboys at Eagles
In a big Sunday night game here. Going to go with the Birds. Donovan shows up on National TV, and has a big game.

Steelers at Broncos
I will NEVER pick agaisnt the Steelers, so this pick is really easy. Steelers!

Bears at 49ers
I didn't realize their was a Thursday night game on the air yesterday, but if any of you listended to the radio show, we did on Monday, I believe I picked the 49ers. Alex Smith has finally developed into a half decent QB. Vernon Davis is finally living up to all the hype he had when the 49ers drafted him out of Maryland

Bucs at Dolphins
This is a pretty easy pick. Dolphins is a not so close game. The Bucs have a rookie QB starting in Josh Freeman, who frankly wasn't that great of a QB at Kansas State. Dolphins with that wild cat offense, and Ronny Brown run all over Tampa and win the game

Detriot at Minnesota
EASY EASY PICK. Viking is a landslide. Lions are one of the worst teams in all of football, and Vikings are one of the best. Vikings roll to victory

Jaguars at Jets
This one is a tough game. Both teams suck in my oppinion. The Jets have Sanchez at QB and Braylon Edwards at WR. Jags have a more experienced QB in Garrard. This is a tough game to call, and even if the Jags have been struggling all year, I think they pull off the sort of upset at the Medowlands agaisnt the Jets

Bengals at Steelers
Big big game for both teams. I just don't see us losing to the Bengals twice, especially losing at home. We're rock solid at home. We just came off a big game agaisnt Denver, and our momentum is going to continue rolling. I LOVE Carson Palmer, and have always held out hope for the Bengals, but I WILL NEVER go agaisnt my Steelers, so Steelers win and take over the division lead

Saints at Rams
Simple pick. Saints. Saints stay undefeated, and roll over the AWFUL Rams

Bills at Titans
I picked the Bills before to win, but their a disgrace right now to football with how bad they are. Lynch hasn't done anything all year, and to make things worse was suspended for the first 4 games of the year, so I have to go with the hometown team and the Titans. I'm done picking the Bills to win. The TO experiment is OVER!

Denver at Washington
I'm gonna go with Denver. They had been on a roll, but now their on a two game losing streak, and I think they end the skid here. Their playing agaisnt a Redskins team that is frankly terrible. Jason Campbell was never an answer to a franchise QB, and Jim Zorn needs to go!

Chiefs at Raiders
The Raiders. The Black Hole will swallow the Chiefs up. Matt Cassel you're overrated, and Russell you need to learn how to throw a football and complete a pass. For goodness sake, your making a ton of money. You have an arm, learn how to control it and complete a pass. Raiders win this game

Seahawks at Cards
Super bowl bound team last year has been dissapointing this year, but their playing the Hawks. The Hawks have ugly jersys and a horrid team, so Cards and that great offense of theirs rolls big over the Hawks

Dallas at Green Bay
HUGE GAME. Probably best game of the week I think. I struggled with my pick here. On the radio I originally picked Dallas. They had the big win in Philly last week, but I just don't see them going into Lambaeu this week and upsetting Green Bay. Well it wouldn't be much of an upset, but I have switched picks, and am going to go with the Pack

Philly at San Diego
Eagles you had a tough loss at home, and traveling all the way across the country is not going to help the bad taste left in your mouth. Once again your going to be licking your wounds, because your going to lose to the Chargers

New England at Indy
In one of the most anticipated games of the year, in what has become one of the biggest rivalries in the 2000's, I think Peyton wins at home. I hope he doesn't, because I don't want Indy getting home field for the playoffs, because its always tough going into that STUPID dome, with all that crowd noise. Indy you should've built a stadium outdoors. I have always said if they can have outdoor stadiums in New Enngland and Green Bay, why can't everyone have one? Its stupid. Indy wins, because they have that stupid dome, yes its a retractible roof, but its still indoors

Ravens at Cleveland
Why o Why is this a Monday night game. Put the New England Indy game here. Ravens win BIG! Cleveland sucks and everyone is going to see them suck nationally. They can't seem to decide who their starting QB is. They have a TON of problems.

Update

Sorry guys for the lack of posts within the past few weeks. Its been a really busy time for me (Mark) with classes and everything. I will try my best from now on to do the weekly NFL picks, and post blogs on a more then once a week basis. I hope no one goes home dissapointed. Also check on Jeff and I's radio show, on WDSR.ORG from 12-1 today.

Week 8 and 9 Picks

So in our first week of picks, I topped Mark with an 8-5 record, while Mark compiled a 7-6 record.

Here were the picks from last week.

Rams at Lions. Mark and I both picked the Lions, probably the only time this season that this would occur and we were wrong. Looks like the Rams won't go 0-16 like the 08 Lions.

Dolphins at Jets. Mark took the Dolphins and won. This was one exciting game in the third quarter with a total of 37 points being scored.

Seahawks at Cowboys. Mark and I took the Crybows and they had an impressive 38-17 win in the Palace.

Browns at Bears. This was a gimme pick and we both won.

Broncos at Ravens. The Broncos finally fell and the Ravens finally got back on the winning track. Both Mark and I predicted that the Broncos would no longer be undefeated. I

Texans at Bills. I was a believer in the Texans, while Marky wasn't. I finally got a win over him in Week 8.

49ers at Colts. Who would've thought that Joseph Addai would throw more TD's than Mr. Manning and still win??? Anyways, Mark and I were correct with our Colt picks.

Giants at Eagles. I thought my fantasy football defense would come through and stop McNabb and the Eagles, however, they tore apart my defense. Mark was victorious with his pick of the Eagles.

Raiders at Chargers. Mark and I both picked the correct team in this game, the Chargers.

Jaguars at Titans. Mark and I both predicted that the Titans would get their first win of the season...and they did.

Vikings at Packers. This was probably the most anticipated game at Lambeau Field ever. Brett Favre, returning home, in a Vikings jersey. I thought Brett, AP and the Vikings D Line would run over and sack the Packers, and thats exactly what happened. This was the last of 4 differences Mark and I had, and we split on the 4.

Panthers at Cardinals. Mark and I were fans of the most overrated team in football, the Cardinals. Somehow Jake D and Co, went into Arizona and came out victorious.

Falcons at Saints. Mark and I agreed Drew Brees would lead his army in a big win over divisional opponent.

Jeff's Record in Week 8: 9-4
Mark's Record in Week 8: 9-4

Total
Jeff: 17-9
Mark: 16-10

Jeff's Week 9 Picks
Ravens at Bengals. After a home loss to the Bengals in Week 5, the Ravens are coming to Cincy for revenge. After an impressive win over the undefeated Broncos last week, the Ravens are back to their old selves and will continue with a statement win over the Bengals.

Packers at Bucs
Sorry Bucs fans, this isn't the week when you get your first win. Packers by 17.

Dolphins at Patriots
The Wildcat only works in Miami. I believe that Tom Brady and Randy Moss are part of the best team in the NFL, even if they do have two losses.

Chiefs at Jaguars
Wow, thank God this game will be blocked out for the citizens of Jacksoville. This will be the worst game of the week, but the Jags will win.

Texans at Colts
Peyton Manning and Reggie Wayne will be too much for the feel good story of the Texans. I believe the Texans are a top 6, 7 team in the AFC, but they are playing the Colts, in Indy. Sorry Texans, but not this year.

Cardinals at Bears (Upset Special)
Lovie Smith and Jay Cutler take an early lead, but fold at the end to Kurt Warner and Larry Fitz. I want to believe that the Cardinals were not just a one year wonder, so I think they will win on the road in Chicago.

Redskins at Falcons
The Falcons are a GOOD team, not a great team, a GOOD team. Now, the Redskins are a BAD BAD BAD team. GOOD > BAD. Dirty Birds by 20.

Lions at Seahawks
The Seahawks are better than their 2-6 record. This team has offensive playmakers and I believe they will show up against the one win in two season Lions.

Panthers at Saints
Drew Brees and the top team in the NFC take down the old and fragile Panthers.

Titans at 49ers
Thanks to the Swine Flu, I was bedridden all Sunday and was able to watch the 49ers and Colts game. Alex Smith looked very impressive in his welcome back to the NFL start. The Titans did look good with VY as QB, but I like the niners in this one.

Chargers at Giants
Whenever the Chargers come out East, I feel as if they always lose. However, the Giants are really struggling and are on a 3 game losing streak. EHHHH, I will go with my defense again and hope the Giants pull out a big W here.

Cowboys at Eagles
TONY ROMO THROW ME A GOOD PASS!!!! Roy Williams come on. I believe that dude practices more on his first down celebrations rather than his route running. A Sunday night game, in Philly, is going to to the Ealges. As much as I hate them, I have a hard time seeing them lose at home.

Steelers at Broncos
I will always go with the Steelers and I think we go in there, and win big. I think that the Broncos offense is awful and their defense is overrated. Big Ben will go for over 300 yards and Mendenhall will have a productive fantasy night. Steelers win on Monday Night.

A-Rod deserved the MVP of the divisional series

Sorry guys for the delayed post. Had a conference last week in Cleveland, and didn't really have access to a computer. Yes indeed Cleveland sucks! Their was nothing to do, and besides the Cavs opening up the NBA season on Tuesday, their was hardly anyone out at the restaurants or anything. It was lame, but trip was fun. I try to put a few posts a week on here, but just wasn't able to last week, so I'll comment on A Rod now

So this year one of my two favorite teams is in the playoffs. That is the Yankees, for any of you that were wondering. The Yankees entered the postseason with the best record in baseball with 103 victories ( You can do the math to see how many losses they had). The Yankees also spent 450 million on 3 players in CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett, Mark Teixeria, and Nick Swisher. That's a ton of money, but hey the Yankees finally got two power pitchers, and that's what they had been missing the past number of years. The hitting has been there, the pitching hasn't. I personally thought CC threw his arm out, with how much he was used in Cleveland and mainly Milwaukee last season. Man was I proved wrong, and I am extremely happy about that. 19 wins later, and their in the playoffs. Phil Hugues was turned into a releiver, and what a GREAT move that was. He was the bridge the Yankees were looking for, to replace Joba Chamberlain, who had moved into the rotation. Down the stretch run, they Yankees limited Joba's pitches every start, and if I do believe he did not get past the 5th inning in any of his starts down the stretch. This proved ok, because the Yankees had one of the best bullpens in all of baseball with Damaso Marte, Phil Coke, Phil Hughes, and one of the best closers of all time Mariano Rivera ( The Machine). So if you can get the ball to big Mo, then game over, bank on it

So the Yankees roll into the playoffs with home field throughout. They get starts out of CC Burnett and Petitte. A Rod was unbelieveable with 2 home runs and 5 RBI's, and batted around 500. A-Rod has been under so much scrutinity in the post-season, because he never has really delievered, and is paid so much money. This year he took even more grief from everyone for lying about steroids, then admitting to it. Yes I'm a believer in forgiveness and this could be biased, but I forgave A-Rod, because he publicly apologized for taking them.

So his roll continued on into the series agaisnt the Angels, where he hit 3 home runs and 12 RBI's, and hit an astonishing 400! What a series. Its the best series I have ever seen for a player, and I firmly believe he deserved the MVP. Yes CC pitched very well a 2-0 record with a 1.19 era. That's pretty freaking good, and his 2nd start was on 3 days rest. Yes that's really good, but come on guys. A Rod has never done anything in the post season and he stepped up this year beyond belief. I'll make the analogy to the Super Bowl when the Colts played the Bears. Did Peyton really deserve that MVP? I don't really think so, I think it was a reward for his achievement over his career. That's what I think they should've done to A-Rod or at least give them co-MVP's for goodness sake. To say the least I thought A-Rod was a lock for the MVP, and was SHOCKED when CC was lined up for an interview. To say the least I wasn't the smallest bit happy. I was up screaming at the TV, and all over my house. Then I calmed down, and realized this was the first time in 6 years that the Yankees were going to the World Series, and had a serious shot at winning the whole thing. Before the series ever started, I called the Yanks in 6!

Needless to say, A-Rod deserved that MVP for how much crap he's taken from the media especially being in New York, and also he's sucked for his whole career in the post-season, and just has been amazing this year. Yes the same can be said about CC. Never has performed in the big dance. But with everything that A-Rod has given through, and his past history in the post-season, give him the MVP. He deserves it!

Let's go Yanks! Win number 27. Their's a reason why they gave Girardi that number!

Post in response to the moron who ripped on my Sid and Ovechkin post

Ok buddy I agree with some of your post, but others of it are complete garbage. You say I need to learn hockey and just stick to the Duquesne Basketball posting. If you want to talk hockey, then why did you not make a site yourself? I mean I appreciate the comment, but if your going to go around saying the article is completely messed up, the build your own site (if you know how to do it that is), and post blogs about hockey, and how great you think Sid Crosby and the Pens are.
One point that you made clear, that I forgot to put, and I thank you for writing was that I failed to mention that Ovechkin is a one dimensional player. I forgot the "dirty" part, where he plays with reckless abandon, hits people, cheats the rules, and takes cheap shots of player. Case example, was in game 4, when Ovechkin stuck out his knee, while Gonchar was coming up the ice, injuring Gonchar, knocking him out for the next two games. Luckily he was able to come back for game 7 of the series, and help propel the Pens to a victory past their hated rival the Caps. Yes in his career Sid has more penalty minutes.81 more PIM just to be exact. Yes Crosby may have more Penalty minutes than Ovechkin, but this can be said from a NHL perspective, that Ovechkin plays the game with more reckless abandon than does Crosby. Ovechkin does care who it is with the puck, he's going to go hit the man. Ovechkin takes cheap shots on people. Yes Crosby does the same, when he gets frustrated he does dumb things and takes dumb penalties. I'll give you that one for sure, but overall I believe I am speaking from a view from the entire NHL, that Ovechkin is a MUCH dirtier play than is Sid. Yes I did that Alex is a better offensive player than is Sid. I mean I was saying that on a basis, on who are you more worried about when taking a shot, Ovechkin or Sid? I think once again it can be said from an NHL perspective that it is Ovechkin. Personally I think he has a better shot than does Sid. His percentage would not agree. Sid has a lifetime shot percentage of.140, and Ovechkin .123. Yes this can be debated, on who shoots better, but if both players have the puck, who are you more worried about scoring with the puck? Don't tell me in the playoffs that every time Ovechkin had the puck, you weren't nervous like I was that he was going to shoot the puck everytime he had it, and every shot that he took wasn't going to go in? I mean that's why I think he's a better offensive player. I think he has a better shot than Sid, but if once again if your looking just at shot percentage, the percentages say Sid is a better shooter than is Ovechkin. Trust me I can't stand Ovechkin, but I'm arguing from the point of view of the league. I'm trying to make people see from both sides, then conclude everything that Sid is a better team player, while Ovechkin is a better individual player, even though I and the majority of the league I believe would take Sid if you're trying to start a franchise in the league and had the choose between the two as your first pick. Also another thing wrong with youyr argument, or your critiquing my post is some of your numbers are off. I question where exactly you got your numbers. I will say I got mine off of Yahoo. Yes you got the number of games right, in that Ovechkin has played 33 more games than Sid, but re-check your number queer and learn how to subtract. Unless the numbers of Yahoo are lying, and that's what I'm going by Ovechkin has 1852 career shots, to Sid's 971. I assume you went to some internet site just like I did, and got the numbers. I think I can make the argument that you have not sat there, watched every game of Sid's and Ovechkin's carrer and tallied their stats as the years have gone on. If you have, you need to get a life. Get your fat butt up off the couch and go get some excerise. I know you may be a Penguin fan, as am I, but really does anyone sit there, watch every Pens game their is, and tally stats. I would just call you crazy if you did that. I mean kudos to you if you do that, but in my oppinion you need to get a life, because tallying stats is going to get you nowhere in life, and once again learn how to add and subtract. The least you can do get a life, get up from in front of the TV and get yourself a life. Tracking players stats are going to get you nowhere in life, and that is just some helpful advice to you.
Your right and I was suprised by this, Ovechkin has only lead the league in scoing twice. He won it last year and the year before. So you were right in that case, and so I commend you on doing your homework, and pointing that out to me. Yes if you wanna judge offensive players from a stat standpoint I guess your argument can stand, I was just saying Ovechkin in my oppinion is more dazling with the plays and the shots he takes. Crosby is a more smooth player, may not make you wow with what he does, while sometimes he may, but gets the job done, and that can be backed up be his stats. Going head to head doesn't mean anything when comparing the players. The Pens have had a better team than the Caps the past few years, so obviously their going to have a betetr record then them. If your going to argue strictly from a record standpoint then its a no brainer Sid is the better player. I think Sid overall is a better play. I just think some aspects of Ovechkin's game are better than Sid, but like I said before, if I'm taking one player to start a team, I'm taking Number 87.
So conlcusion to all of this. Some of your points are valid, and I am glad you brought them up, but if your going to attack my post, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do your homework and get the stats right. It just makes you look pathetic that you can't click through some computer screens and add and subtract the stats of both of the players. That was awful on your part. And in the end of your post, you act like I think Ovechkin is a better player. Hello idiot, I clearly said it in my first post, and now I'm saying it in my response to your retarded post, because clearly you cannot read what I wrote, in that I said if I'm taking a player to start a team I'm taking Sid Crosby. Let me put it in terms that you will understand. THIS MEANS I THINK SID IS A BETTER PLAYER AND I WANT HIM ON MY TEAM. So you act in your last pargraph that I think Ovechkin is better. Clearly that is not that case. Read my post again. Yes I agree Sid saved the NHL. I also believe if we had not gotten him, the Pens would've moved out of Pittsburgh. That point can be debated, but that's what I think. Yes if you do recall the draft of 2005, was called the Sid Crosby sweepstakes, and the Pens somehow got the rights to the first pick, where it was a no brainer that you take The Kid.
So all in all you have some good points, but others in your post SUCK. You attcked my post with incorrect numbers, which is just pathetic on your part, and you clearly did not read my post, and did not get the sense that I think Sid is a better player than is Alex. I think I made it pretty clear. I have no idea what you were reading, but its pretty clear that you didn't think I made my point in saying if I'm starting a team, I'm taking Crosby over Ovechkin to start a team. Advice- Do your homework if your going to attack someone else's post. Be a man and stick your actual name as your nametag, so when you post stuff its not some pens garbage tag, its your actual name, like your first name. Don't go off into random points that I didn't even talk about and aren't valid to defend or attack my post. You just went off into a random tangent about the head to head records and stuff. But yeah you may be a Crosby fan, as am I, but can't we give Ovechkin some credit at all? He's a world class player, and does some things better than Sid, but overall Sid is a better player. Please is your ever going to write on my site again, please put an educated post up, and do your homework. LEARN HOW TO ADD AND SUBRACT MORON!

Mark's NFL week 7 picks

Vikings at Steelers
Gotta go with the hometown team and the Steelers

Pats vs Buccaners
Gotta go with the Pats playing in London.

Chargers at Chiefs
In an upset here, I'm goin with the Chiefs. San Diego I don't think is very good, and Arrowhead stadium has always been a tough place to play. Chiefs win in a close one

49ers vs Texans
Gotta go with Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson here. We'll see how Crabtree adjusts to the NFL, and if he was worth all the wait, but Texans will win

Packers at Browns
Gotta go with the Cheeseheads. The Browns are one of the two worst football teams in the league. It can be debated who's worst. The Browns don't have a legit number 1 QB. and they traded away their best offensive weapon in Braylon Edwards

Colts at Rams
Rams are winless and due for a win, however it won't come this week. Peyton has been playing awesome this year. Colts coming off a bye week, going to roll over the Rams. Sorry St. Louis, gonna have to wait another week for a win

Jets at Raiders
Raiders coming off a big win, going to choose them again. They have a good defense, if only Russel could complete a freaking pass. Has thw worst completition percentage in the league. Raiders in a close game.

Bills at Panthers
Panthers run game runs all over Buffalo. TO is having a horrid year, because he should've known Buffalo doesn't have a QB that can get him the ball. Lynch sucks as well. Dissapointing for fantasy owners all around like me

Falcons at Cowboys
Great game. Probably 2nd best game on tap for the week behind the Stillers and Vikings. Dallas is going to get their act together in front of the over 100,000 fans that will be watching the game in that Palace they have to Jerry Jones

Bears at Bengals
Bears are a terrible team in my oppinion. Bengals have a great offense, Bengals take the game

Saints at Dolphins
Saints have been on a roll, but with that wildcat offense of theirs Dolphins win at home. Saints finally lose a game

Cardinals at Giants
Another great game, but Giants win this one. Cardinals have that great offense, but just don't see them coming into the Meadowlands and winning. Giants win

Eagles at Redskins
Eagles coming off a brutal loss to the Raiders, but Redskins are going to get their act together, and win one for Jim Zorn. Redskins in a close game

NFL Week 7 Picks

Here are my predictions for Week 7, the team with the line next to them, is who I think will win.

Vikings at Steelers (-4)
The Steelers defense will stop AP and Favre. I don't believe the Vikings receivers can beat our secondary, and Troy will be giving Brett nightmares all game long. The key matchup to watch will be the Vikings defensive line versus the Steelers offensive line. Steelers win by a touchdown.
Patriots (-14) at Buccannears
I can name a few players on the Titans defense and they lost by 59. I can't think of many players on the Bucs D, this game is a blowout. I apologize to the fans in London attending this game. In their futbol, this matchup would be like Machester vs LA Galaxy.

Chargers (- 4 1/2) at Chiefs
This is the week that the Chargers bust out of their season funk. Shawn Meriman will finally get a sack, and a running back for the Chargers will finally rush for over 70 yards.

49ers at Texans (-3 1/2)
Welcome to the NFL Michael Crabtree, 7 weeks too late. However, Matt Schaubb and AJ will destroy the weak secondary of the 49ers.

Packers (-6 1/2) at Browns
How is the line only 6 1/2 points? The Browns are awful. No more comments are necessary.

Colts (-13) at Rams
See above.

Jets at Raiders (+7) Upset Special Pick
Alright so if McNabb sucked against the Raiders, how could Mark Sanchez do any better? He has been awful the past three weeks and I see another poor outing this week. Plus, Richard Seymour said the Raiders are going to make the playoffs, Go Raiders.

Bills at Panthers (-7)
Is this the week TO flips out on the sidelines? Even as awful as the Panthers have been this season, the Bills are 10 times worse. They not only lost to the Browns this season, they only scored 3 points against them!!!! Look for Julius Peppers to have a big game.

Falcons (+3) at Cowboys
What is going on in Dallas? It has gotten to the point where freaking PATRICK CRAYTON is calling out the offensive coordinator for poor play calling. Mr. Crayton, what have you ever done? You had a big first week and since then you have done nothing. Once you do something productive in your career, then maybe you can say something, until then shut up. I love offensive weapons that Dallas has, but the pieces of the puzzle aren't fitting. Until they do, I just don't see them winning. Matt Ryan takes his team in and wins by a touchdown.

Bears (+2) at Bengals
The only chance the Bungals have of beating the Bears is if Carson Palmer has a huge game. Ocho Cinco has been trashing talking Jay Cutler on Twitter all week, he might have a big game, but not big enough to beat the Bears. Ced Benson also gave the Bears bullentin board material this week, which will pump up that defense. I also see Jay Cutler exploiting the soft defense there in Cincy and as a result, I see the Bears pulling out a victory in Cincy. This would give the Steelers the lead in the AFC East.

Saints (-7) at Dolphins
Unless Drew Brees gets hurt, I don't see in any scenario where the Dolphins have a chance in this game. The Saints offense is so potent and there is that feeling that they will put up 35 points a game.

Cardinals at Giants (-7)
After a poor defensive performance in New Orleans, the Giants D will bounce back against Larry Fitzgerald and the Arizona Cardinals. IF Anquan Boldin is out for Sunday's game, the Giants D will be able to double Larry Fitz without fear of being burned by another receiver. Giants bounce back and win big.

Eagles (-6 1/2) at Redskins
This will be the most boring Monday Night Football game of the season. Last week the Eagles lost to the Raiders, yes the Raiders. This week they will seek revenge against the hated rival Redskins. This won't be much of a game, Eagles win BIG.

Big Ben is an elite QB

Ben Roethlisberger is an elite quarterback in the NFL. I've hard plenty of people say, he's just not that great of a QB, he just manages the game, and let's his run game and his defense win the games for him. This is all non-sense. Ben has established himself as an elite QB in the league in his short career so far, and can only go up from here. This is his sixth year in the league, and has already had the most wins of ANY QB in the league in his first five years in the league, and has won 2 Super Bowls. He was the youngest QB to EVER win a Lombardi Trophy. Granted he didn't win MVP in the two games he played, but the fact is he was the winning Quarterback in both games.

His first year in the league, he lead the Steelers to 14 straight victories, home field advantage throughout the playoffs, and to an AFC Championship appearance. Yes thinking back to his rookie season he barely snuck by the Jets. It was two missed field goals later that the Steelers advanced to the AFC Championship to play the Pats. Ben played horrid that game, but who can blame him, he was only a rookie. AFC Championship came, and he played horrible in the game. I remember the game being REALLY cold. The play that sticks out most in my mind is when Ben threw an INT when they were inside the 5 yard line right to Rodney Harrison, who ran the ball back like 100 yards for a touchdown. It was then revealed later that the Patriots were involved in "Spygate", which they were accused of taping practices and figuring out play calling schemes of other teams. The Steelers were included in those games. I'm convinced, had the Pats not cheated the Steelers would've won the Super Bowl

Ok enough of the scandal part, let's get back to why I think Ben is an elite QB. I mean the most wins in his first 5 years in the league. That's beating the likes of Marino, Elway, Farve, Brady, and Steve Young. That's a heck of an accomplishment. To be the youngest person ever to win a Super Bowl, that's another remarkable accomplishment as well.

Since coming into the league, Ben has been the most sacked quarterback in the league. He gets hounded every game, takes shots left and right from defensive players, but yet gets right back up and plays the game. Ben has missed some games due to injury, which makes his most wins accomplishment all the more impressive. The Steelers offensive line has been notoriously bad, and therefore Ben takes the effect of that. Ben is a big guy and take a hit no doubt, but if you take any other quarterback in the league, they are not going to survive. Our offensive line is too bad, and quarterbacks these days do not fight against injury. Any little thing that is wrong with them, they don"t play in the games. The only other quarterbacks that defeat what I'm saying are the Ironman Brett Favre, and Mcnabb. Those are two tough dude. But stick Brady or Manning back behind our offensive line, they'll be like sitting ducks and just get hammered. They will not be able to survive the whole season.

Also what makes Ben great, is it is so hard to sack the man. I mean yes he has been sacked a bunch, but man can he escape the pocket. If you watch any of the games, you will hear the commentators mention how well Ben can escape the pocket. This makes Ben so great. If you think you have Ben one second, the other second he'll be gone out of the pocket. Ever since he's come into the league, Ben has had a knack for being able to throw the ball accurately on the run. Ben has always been at or near the top of the league when it comes to passer rating on the move out of the pocket. This makes Ben a great QB, because not only can he throw the ball while he's in the pocket, but can throw it on the move.

The sign of a great QB is maturity as well. The first time Ben was in the playoffs was in 2004, and he sucked the entire way through. He was lucky to advance past the divisional round game against the Jets. It was two missed field goals, that got them through to the Pats. He sucked in that game as well. 2005 comes, and midway through the season, basically their was no hope of making the playoffs. The team got themselves together, and had the hope of getting Jerome home, and playing in his hometown of Detroit for the Super Bowl. They had to win 3 games on the road to get to Detroit. They destroyed Cincinnati, baffled the Colts, and rolled over the Broncos, and got Jerome home to Detroit. The Super bowl game against the Seahawks, was one of the worst Super Bowls, I've ever seen. Ben played awful and was bailed out by a 75 yard run by Willie Parker, which is the longest run in Super Bowl history. Also on what they referred to as a gadget play, Randle El threw a pass to Hines Ward. Ben had the lowest QB rating ever to win the Super Bowl, but the fact is that he won.

Last year comes around. The Steelers had probably the greatest defense ever assembled. We had the hardest schedule ever produced. On it were 6 of the 8 division winners from the previous year. Man what a schedule. The Steelers fought and crawled through the games, won the division and made it to the playoffs. We manhandled the Chargers, and won a war of a game against the Ravens. Now comes Ben's 2nd time in the playoffs. The second time around Ben always does things better. Ben's 2nd time in the playoffs, he learned his mistakes and played amazing, leading his team to the Super Bowl. Well its Ben's 2nd time in the Super Bowl. The Steelers and their amazing defense were HEAVY favorites against the Cardinals. The game was great. Steelers lead for most of the game, but the Cardinals hung in the game, and took the lead with 2:20 to go. Man what shock this way, the Steelers may lose the Super Bowl. I remember saying to myself, their's a reason the Rooney's dished out 100 million dollars on this QB. He's gonna lead the drive of a lifetime. He lead the team down the field, with a number of passes to Holmes. The throw and catch that some consider the best sports moment in Pittsburgh history, happened when Ben from the 20 yard line, went through about 3 of his reads, saw Holmes in the back of the end zone, and fired the ball. After the game, Ben said he thought the ball was going to be intercepted. Holmes somehow pulled it out of the air, tip toed the sideline, and caught the game winning TD.

Ben learned his 2nd time around in the Super Bowl how to play. The maturation and growth of Ben makes him an elite QB. All his stats and achievements make him an elite QB as well. The thing that makes him one of the top 3 QB's in the league is he's a winner. I don't care what people say about our defense and about the team around him, he'e the QB, and the play caller of the team. Its him who makes the team go. So with Ben's ability to escape, his winning mantra, his savvy feel for the game, its all these intangibles, which make me say I would not want any other QB on my team then Big Ben

The age old question

The age old question today in hockey is who is better Alex Ovechkin or the "the kid" Sid Crosby. They are both extremely talented for anyone that enjoys watching hockey like I do. I get to watch Sid on a daily basis living in Pittsburgh, so I've seen him improve over the course of his short career so far. I've seen him in his ups and downs. Alex on the other hand I've seen play in games against the Pens, but that's about all to the extent I have watched Ovechkin. I watched him play in some playoff games, but really did not get to watch him all that much until last year when the dream playoff match up came when it was Sid vs Alex. It wasn't until then I really get a new appreciation for how skilled of a player he really is.

This was the dream series every hockey fan wanted to see. The two marquee guys in the league facing off against each other in the route to the ultimate prize in all of sports, Lord's Stanley's cup. This I personally think was the best series in hockey history, because you really haven't had two marquee names as big as Sid and Alex, since Mario and Gretzky, and they never faced each other in the playoffs.

From a skill view of who's better I think its pretty obvious that its Ovechkin. I really didn't get an appreciation for how skilled the man is, until having watched him in the grueling 7 game series they played against the Pens. The kid can dangle the puck around players, skate through people, dance with the puck, and his best weapon is he can shoot from anywhere. I remember thinking that every time he had the puck I was nervous because I didn't know whether he was going to shoot or not. He has one of the hardest shots in the league, and is very accurate. Ever since he has come into the league, Alex has lead the NHL in shots year after year. Really that's all the kid does. He shoots the puck. He basically leads the league in goals every year because he shoots the puck so darn much. I mean if any player shot as much as him, sure they'd have a ton of goals, but does that make them the best player in the league?

Yo buddy if you didn't notice theirs more then one person on the ice. Their's 4 other players and a goalie. Their whole team is setup around one man. The Power play and everything. The guy is talented don't get me wrong, and probably has more skill then anyone in the league right now, and anyone that has been in the league maybe since Mario and Wayne Gretzky? But from the argument sake of who's a better team player, I think the point is quite obvious that its the kid Sid Crosby.

Sid makes everyone around him better. Its proven because his goal to assist ratio is about even, or he will even have more assists then goals. I know the object in hockey is to score, so if you looking at that aspect of the game of who's the better player I think the answer is quite obvious in that it is Ovechkin. But the argument I'm trying to make is Sid is a better team player as well as overall a better play than Ovechkin.


Yes you can make the argument that Sid has Malkin on his team. Another world class player. Yes that definitely helps, but Alex had Mike Green, Backstrom, Semin, and Federov. Those are all world class players as well. So that point is moot I think. Theirs no grounds for argument sake there. Yes both teams were talented. Both teams have world class players on them, but the reason the Pens have made the Stanley Cup finals the last two years is because Sid makes his teammates around him better. Hockey is a team game, not an individual sport. Yes it helps when you have great individuals around you, but ultimately if you have a player that makes his teammates better, that team is going to succeed more. In the Washington series, Malkin didn't even show up. Sid really had to step it up and carry the team. He did, and ultimately the Pens advanced past the Caps, and to the ultimate goal of winning the Stanley Cup.


Both Crosby and Ovechkin were first picks in their respective drafts. Ovechkin has won the goal scoring titles a number of times, as well as had the most shots, the most goals, and the most points. Yes Alex puts up numbers, but is success measured by numbers, or is it by your performance in the playoffs, and ultimately in Stanley Cups? Yes again their are exceptions to measuring your performance in championships. You can argue Dan Marino was one of the best QB's to ever play the game, but he never won a Super Bowl? Karl Malone in widely considered one of the best Power forwards in NBA history, but never won a championship.

I would ultimately measure one's performance in how they did in the playoffs and what their stats are when it came down to crunch time. Ovechkin can have all the stats he wants in the regular season, but has only made the playoffs twice. Sid has made it three times. He was named youngest captain ever in the league, as well as the youngest captain ever to win a Stanley Cup.

We are lucky today to have both players in the league. They really have revitalized hockey, and brought the casual fan into the game. But for argument's sake Crosby is a better overall player. He makes his teammates around him better, he has more assists then goals, and is just a better leader then Alex. Alex sure is a darn talented player, and is a great individual player, but if your going to build a team around one player, you gotta go with Sid. If you want to score goals, and get shots on net, yeah go with Ovechkin, but if you want a pure leader who does the dirty work, makes regular guys look like Superstars, draws penalties, and much more, I think the choice is quite obvious in that you choose Sid the Kid.

Jeff Reed needs let go

In case any of you haven't heard, after the Steelers victory over the Browns on Sunday, Jeff Reed took it upon himself to have some excessive celebrating. He was charged with simple assault, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness. He was at a bar around the stdium called McFadden's where he was getting his drink on. Apparently Reed had a little too many drinks, and was drunk. He was outside of the bar with his buddy Mat Spaeth (Tight end for the Steelers), Reed's parents I assume were in for the game to watch their son, and wanted to go celebrate the win. They took their son and his friend out to McFadden's where they had some drinks. They all left the bar, and were all in the car, I assume to take their son him. Matt thought it was okay to take a leak outside the bar in public. Cops apparently saw this, and wanted to speak to Matt. Jeff thought it was his duty to defend his friend, so he jumped out of the car, all the while Jeff's parents are sitting in the car watching this happen. It has been said that Jeff got in a defensive stance and tried to fight the police. This has been Jeff's second incident this year with disordly conduct. In Arizona, he punched a paper towel dispenser in a local convience store. What an idiot.

The Rooney's have never been one to stand for this kind of action. I'm not going to tell Jeff to watch his drinking or anything like that, but dude, your a professional athlete, go party at your house. Its okay to go drink at bars and stuff and interact with people, but PLEASE MAN CONTROL YOURSELF. Its not okay to try to fight some cop. You just look like a complete idiot. Alochol does some weird things to you, and people do some really retarded things when they are intoxicated. So with the Rooney's repuation, and this being the last year of his contract, Reed needs let go. We don't need anymore negative press about this team. Big Ben was accused of sexually assulting a women in Las Vegas, but the charges were dropped. I'm convinced that all she wanted was money, so she claimed she was raped. I won't go into details on the lawsuit, because that can be for another post

Jeff Reed needs to let go. He's a partier, and doesn't fit the brand of players the Steelers have produced. You hardly hear any negative press about any of the Steelers. Yes occasionally you do hear some negative things about the players. I mean their human for goodness sake, but the majority of the time all you hear is good things about the ownership, the players, and the Steelers organization as a whole. So if one player who is in the last year of his contract, is acting up, giving the Steelers all kinds of bad press, then he needs let go. Yes he may be a great kicker, but Jeff you got some problems. So buddy, you messed up once we forgave you, you mess up twice, your gonna get the boot out of here. It doesn't matter how good. We can forgive and forget, but if you do it another time, sorry bud you gotta go, no matter how good of a kicker you may be. We'll find someone else better who represents our organization better then you, and someone we won't have to worry about screwing up, and giving the Steelers bad press. All in all, Jeff Reed needs let go at the of this year.

The Genius behind the Patiots

First off I will say I HATE the Patriots. They are a classless cheating organziation. They cheated to win their 3 Super Bowls, and cheated to beat my Steelers in the 2004 AFC Championship. Belichick and Brady hardly ever shake hands with the opposing teams, and just walk off the field. Their classless, and I can't stand them.

Besides that fact, they have one heck of a coach in Belichick. It is starting to show that he is the real genius behind Tom Brady, and it is him who makes the whole organization run. He has been the reason the team has been so successful. As much as I hate to admit it, its true. I mean look at Romeo Crennel, he failed in his tenure at Cleveland. The Browns didn't want any big games, and failed to make the playoffs during his coaching tenure in Cleveland. His success came when he was the Defensive cordinator at the Patriots. When he went off on his own he failed.

Next case is Eric Mangini. Mangini was the former coach of the NY Jets, and now is currently the coach of the pathetic Browns. Mangini took the Jets to the playoffs, where they lost to the Pats in the wild card playoff game. That was his only success while he was there. He went 4-12 in 2007, and had one of the worst records in the league. He had Chad Pennington in 2006, and coached him to be the comeback player of the year. Yes that is nice, but the Jets are expecting a lot high from the team, espcially from a coach that had so much success in New England. Last year the Brett Favre saga continued, and the season started off well, leading the team to an 8-3 record, but then everything collapsed and they missed the playoffs. Then he was fired. He is coach of the Browns, and I don't see the Brown improving anytime soon (Refer back to my earlier post about Brady Quinn). Mangini overall has failed, and this proves my point that the only reason he succeeded was because of the genius of Bill Belichick.

Next case, and probably the worst case of them all is Charlie Weis. Weiss was formely the offensive cordinator at New England. He is entering his fifth year as the head coach of Notre Dame. He has failed miserably there, thus failing under all the expecations fans had when he was gired. He has not won any big games, and has underachieved his whole entire time as the head coach. Thus once again proving the point that he succeeded because as much as I hate to say it Belichick is a genius.

Belichick also coached Josh McDaniels. This year marks his first year as head coach of the Bronco's. The Bronco's are off to a 5-0 start, but really are they that good? We don't know how good they really are. They play in a crap division, and so we will see. If he fails it will once again prove that Blichick is the mastermind of the Patriots 3 Super Bowls in 5 years.

Nick Saban as a coach in the NFL coached the Miami Dolphis. He failed horrible there missing the playoffs in his two years as coach of the Dolphins. Before that he was the head coach of LSU where he had great success, and now currently has brought Alabama back to its glory days.

Jim Schwartz was an assistant under Belichick and now is the coach of the Detroit Lions. The Lions won their first game in over a year and a half. They lost 17 in a row, before beating the Washington Redskins this year. The Lions continue to be one of the worst teams in football, and I don't see them turning it around anytime soon. So ultimately, he's going to fail as well

If you look at all the coaches under Belichick that have gone on and coached in the pro's and college, all of them have failed except Saban. If we are just talking about the coaches he has coached while he's been at New England that have gone on and coached their own teams, everyone has failed and underachieved extremely. This just goes to show as much as you may hate the man and the Pats organization, they run a pretty darn good program up there, and he is the mastermind they has won them numerous Super Bowls, and produced one of the greastest QB's of all time in Tom Brady.

I can't stand Joe Flacco

I know this is gonna have some arguments agaisnt it, and people are going to bash what I have to say, but I don't care, I'm going to say it anyway, I CAN'T STAND JOE FLACCO. Yes its a feel good story, he saw that he wasn't going to play at Pitt, so he transfered to Delaware, where he had a great career. Yes its a nice story, getting drafted by the Ravens, having played quarterback at such a small school.

Last year the first time the Steelers played the Ravens on Monday night, the announcers were just enamored with Flacco and were worshipping him, like he was the best thing since sliced bread. One of them, I believe it was Tony Kornheiser had the audacity to say that he may be the best rookie EVER. Whenever I heared that, I couldn't believe what I just heard and therefore my dislike for him started to flourish. He lead the Ravens to a 10-6 record and a 6th seed in the AFC playoffs. Yes its grea that he was the first rookie QB to win his first two playoff games as a QB, and did so on the road. Yes that's impressive, but in my mind doesn't even compare to what Ben Roethlisberger did his rookie season.

In Ben's rookie season, he won 14 straight games before losing to the Patriots. He lead the Steelers to the number one seed in the playoffs, and home field advantage throughout the playoffs. I personally think Ben's 14 wins in a row, is MUCH more impressive then Flacco's 1-6 record, and winning his first two playoff games. Ben lead his team to the number 1 seed, and he lost to the Pats, which in turn cheated to win the game. I have no problem in saying that if the Pats wouldn't have cheated for their Super Bowls, Ben and the Steelers would have at least 1 or 2 more Super Bowls. What did Flacco do agaisnt the Steelers and do in big games in his rookie season he CHOKED! Just look at the playoff game agaisnt the Steelers, he had to lead his team back, and what does he do, he throws an INT. Case closed I say. Theirs no argument. Ben will always be a better quarterback, and despite it being a feel good story, I cannot stand Joe Flacco one bit, and HATE how everyone say how he's soo good.

Let's see what he does in his first five years. Will he have two Super Bowls? Will he lead a Super Bowl winning drive? Will he have the most wins in his first five years in the league? ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!!! Their is no comparison. Ben has always been the better QB, and will continue to be. No one better give me the crap argument, O Ben has always had the steady defense behind him. Flacco has a great D behind him, and the toughest linebacker in the league in Ray Lewis. They essentially have the same teams, but what makes or breaks a good team is a good QB. Steelers have a GREAT QB, and the Ravens have a HORRID QB in Flacco. Case closed. Their is no comparison. Thus is why I cannot stand Joe Flacco and will cheer ever time he makes a mistake, and further continues to support my argument. Today when it came down to the clutch, Flacco lead his team on a late 4th quarter drive, lead them to field goal range, but the kicker missed the field goal. O well? Should've gotten the TD. FLACCO SUCKS!

Yankess

Everyone that just watched the Yankees game were privalged to see one of the best games you will ever see! The Yankees are finally back. Yes I know a lot of people hate the Yankees because "supposedily" they cheat baseball and spend a ton of money. Yes they spend money, but why not? Their is no salary cap, and you have an owner with a bunch of money, so why not go out and spend money. We all can see that spending money doesn't always bring you championships. Just look at the Rays last year, that was all farm talent, and they made it all the way to the World Series. I believe this stat is right and I heard it somewhere, but since 2001, the Yankees have spent 1.2 billion dollars. WOW. That's ridiculous. I mean you gotta do what you gotta do. I personally was so pumped when the Yankees went out and got CC, Burnett, Teixeria, and Swisher. I personally wasn't that thrilled with CC, because I thought he threw his arm out, after the ridiculous numbers he put up last year. Yes A-Rod may make 30 million a year, and I think that's WAY too much for any player, he's a straight up stud. Finally his post-season jinx is over, and he came to play this year. Finally the burden was taken off his back, and they went out and got another power hitter and pitcher, which eased him up. A-Rod finally didn't have all of New York on his back, and feel like he had to carry his team. He may have taken steriods, but please who hasn't. Yes I don't agree that its right to take steroids, its cheating for sure, but c'mon people, give the man a break. He admitted using steroids, and actually came out and announced he had used steroids. Has Bonds, Sosa, Mcgwire, Palmerio came out and announced they used steroids, I don't think so. Peronally I don't agree with what A-Rod did, but I have forgiven him for what he did, because he apologized and came out and admitted that he did use steroids.

The post season he has had so far has been nothing but stellar. Watch out everyone, because with that powerful Yankee lineup, the bullpen, and the amazing starters they have, this is the year for number 27. I mean they didn't give Joe Girardi number 27 for no reason, they knew eventually they were going to win one, and Girardi was going to be the man that did that. People may hate the Yankees, and A-Rod, but their's no denying he's one of the best players EVER to play the game, and the guy is just clutch. For all of you who care, I personally called A-Rod was gonna hit a home run! With A-Rod bombing balls out of the park, the pitchers just dominating, a shutdown bullpen, and the best closer ever, this is the year the Yankees finally get number 27!

Charlie Weiss and Jimmy Clausen need to go

Notre Dame is overrated! They just played a heck of a game against USC, but came up 4 yards short of pushing the game into OT. Clausen had two awful passes in the last 4 seconds of the game. He threw a horrid pass to Golden Tate with 4 seconds left. Luckily their was one second left for Clausen and the Irish to force OT, after being down 14 at the beginning of the 4th quarter. Clausen passed the ball and completely miss the receiver. The ball was WAY behind his receiver, and the game ended 34-27.

Analysts all across the country said Weiss had to have this game to save his career as the Irish head coach. Once again he fell short. He has not had a signature win, and really I think he is still there because he was the offensive coordinator for the Patriots during their amazing (and cheated) run of 3 Super bowls in 5 years. He has not win a big game yet at Notre Dame in his five years as the head coach of the Irish. Today proved that he is not a good college coach, and therefore needs to be dismissed as the coach, and needs to go find another job. Hopefully Notre Dame will realize they need to move on from the Weiss era, and needs to find another coach. If they let Weiss coach again next season, they are really stupid, and are ruining the long legacy they have. In order to regain their championship form, Weiss needs to go.

Its not like the Irish have that bad of a team. Clausen is a decent QB. He was very highly touted coming out of high school, but has yet really to win a big game. He has had enough time at Notre Dame to mature as a QB, but just has not gotten the job done. Thus Notre Dame is overrated, and they need to move on from the Weiss era, and they need to find another Quarterback.

If any of you watched the game today, Golden Tate is one of the best WR's in the country. The kid has amazing hands, and doesn't drop anything. He can take a hit, and still hang onto the ball. All you really need to do is throw the ball up to the kid, and he'll catch it. Clearly ND has some decent players, but when you have an overrated QB, and an Overrated and underachieving coach, your results are going to suffer! Weiss and Clausen need to go!

Thoughts or opinions anyone?

To Play or not to play?

The big thing that has been on my mind for this week's upcoming Steelers game is whether or not the all pro, all everything safety Troy Polamalu should play or not? In case you didn't know, the Steelers are playing the pathetic Browns. The Browns are one of the worst teams in football. They have one of the most overrated QB's in the league in Brady Quinn (which you can see why I think this in my last post). They just traded their best offensive player in Braylon Edwards, and they have an aging run game. Put these all together and you have a pathetic team. To make matters even worse, Derek Anderson had the worst game I have ever seen for a QB last week against the Buffalo Bills going 2-17 for 23 yards and an INT. This is just pathetic for a QB, and yet to show how pathetic the game was, Buffalo won 6-3 in OT. Both teams are awful, and it just to show, that you may have some good players on your team, but if you don't have a solid QB, your team sucks.

Well up next is the undefeated Minnesota Vikings. They have one of the best QB's of all time in the iron man Brett Favre, and the all everything RB Adrian Petersen. This is definitely a championship caliber team, and with them lurking in the distance, I say the Steelers sit Polamalu for yet another week, let him rest and play him next week in this meaningful game.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhGBCpkNuDk (FF to the 2:05 mark of the video)

In the first game of the season, Troy's leg got fallen on by Alge Crumpler and his sprained his MCL. I know personally how damaging any knee injury may be. In high school, I tore my PCL, MCL, and some cartilage. It took me about 3 months to fully recover, and was a hard road back. So with the whole season ahead, and the very important game next week, I saw you sit Polamalu for another week, and play him against the Vikings

Why Brady Quinn is overrated!

Quinn played QB at Notre Dame, and people were raving about him coming out of college. Girls were in love with him, becuase they said he was extremely attractive. Also what made scouts enamored with him, is that he was from Notre Dame. Anyone that follows College Football or knows anything about the sport, knows Notre Dame football. They have a storied history, and have fallen upon hard times recently. If any of you watch ESPN, or ESPN College Gameday, you know that Lou Holtz used to be a coach there, and is in love with the school. He hypes the school more than necessary. I can't tell you the last time Notre Dame won a National Championship. I personally forget the year this was, but the last time I remember them being good, was when they played in the Fiesta Bowl agaisnt one of my personal favorite teams THE Ohio State University. I don't know why I have always liked Ohio State, but the fact is I have. During the game they kept showing Quinn's sister who at the time was dating my favorite player EVER to come out of Ohio State AJ Hawk. I have always been a fan of linebackers, and AJ Hawk was one of the best linebackers I have ever seen come out of college. This may be a stretch in saying, but he was just that good.


So a good looking kid, playing QB at Notre Dame, the media hyped him up to be amazing. Draft day comes and the Browns select a tackle from Wisconsin. The media kept going nuts because Brady was sliding down the board. Finally the Browns re-enter the draft and trade a bunch of picks, and draft Quinn. The crowd went nuts. Thus continued the Browns terrible drafting woes. That can be said in another post. The start of the Brady Quinn era, and an era which they are not going to have an established QB, and are stuck with an overrated QB, plus Derek Anderson who was a one year wonder. The Browns are going to suffer mightily until they can find an established QB. Once Quinn was drafted, the Browns fans immeaditely wanted him to start. The coach at that time was Romeo Crennel. He choose to go with the more experienced Anderson, and what a decision that was. Anderson threw for a career high 29 TD's. Quinn watched and learned, while he rode the bench. Browns fans were happy, but were still upset that Quinn was not starting. Last year the Browns struggled, fans were unhappy, and finally Brady got his chance to shine. He started his first NFL game. He started a few games during the season and completed 45-89 passes, for a grand total of 518yards, and 2 TD's Wow, and people say he's supposed to be good. So for a highly totuted QB coming out of college, and a fan favorite when drafted, Brady's grand total of stats are 48-97 passing, for 563 yards and 2 TD's.

Great player in Quinn. NOT HE SUCKS! We're just fortunate in Pittsburgh to have Ben Roethlisberger

Duquesne Basketball

Hello everyone,

This is the first of what is many posts to come. This is a site where anyone is free to post comments of their thoughts, or just put any other random thoughts down. I ask that you keep it to sports, or sports related, if possible.

So to the post:

When you think of Duquesne Men's basketball, what do you think? Most people put losing and Duquesne in the same sentence. Rightfully so, yes? I would agree with this statement to a point. Ever since Ron Everhart has come to coach Duquesne from Northeastern, the whole program has turned around. What a great find he has been. For the first time in a long time (since I can remember), they had a winning season and even made post-season play. They made the NIT and played one of the best games I have seen on any level. Aaron Jackson had one of the most dominating performances I have ever seen in any sport during the game. His 50 points were not enough to lead the Duke's to victory, but certainly is worth noting for sure. The Duke's ended up losing in 3 OT's, but to even get there was amazing. They were down about 13 points with 2 mins to go, and in my head I'm thinking this game is over with, and the end has come. I couldn't believe what I was watching. Va Tech kept missing free throws, and Duquesne kept coming down the court and scoring. It was an amazing game to watch. One of the best games in recent memory at least for me.

Another highlight of the year was the trip down to Duke to see Duquesne play Duke. I have always been a Duke fan, and whenever it was announced in the Summer that Duquesne was playing Duke, I had to get tickets. This game I couldn't miss. My favorite team is playing my school. Why would a school so good, and with such a history call Duquesne to come down and play a nationally televised game? I still do not know the answer, but anyway the game was going to happen. I remember calling everyone to tell them that Duquesne was playing Duke. I was in utter shock, and still couldn't believe it. It was a really rainy stormy night that night. I was sitting up in my room, just watching the TV in utter amazement that the game was really going to happen. It was pouring outside, and a storm was happening. My phone was about to die, and I had it on the charger, then BAM all the power went off. I continued to talk to my friend on the phone, then my phone died. I literally just sat there for about twenty minutes still amazed the game was happening. Power came back on after about 30 mins. By this time it was around 2:30 a.m.

Fastforward to the actual game........ It was a nationally televised game on ESPN 2. My dad and I went to the game, and we both couldn't believe that we were both standing in front of the mecca of all college basketball, Cameron Indoor Stadium. Seeing the arena and the court on TV a bunch of times is one thing, but in person, their is just something magical in that place. We get to our seats, and see Duquesne warming up. I still couldn't believe that I was sitting in Cameron Indoor watching DUKE, Coach K, and all the Cameron Crazies. It was a feeling I don't think I will ever have again.

Warmups pass and time for the game... Duquesne kept it close till about the 13 minute mark, then Duke just went on a tear shooting the ball, and it seemed like they couldn't miss. Jon Scheyer couldn't miss a three pointer, and the Blue Devils were just firing on all cylinders. Duke just put their foot on the gas peddle and ran away with the game. Lance Thomas played a heck of a game as well. Had a double-double I believe. Duquesne ended up losing by 18 I believe. I thought to myself not too bad. Good performance, but it just shows Duquesne has a far way to go to catch Duke, and become a premiere team on the national level.

Duquesne has a very promising year ahead of them. With them advancing all the way to the NIT, and losing in 3 OT's, and losing one starter they have much to look forward too. My personal favorite player is Melquan Bolding. I really truly believe that this kid has potential to make it to the NBA. He defintely has a NBA body. If he continues to work at his game, he's got a really good shot at making it. With all the returning starters back the projected lineup will be Eric Evans at PG, Melquan Bolding at SG, Bill Clark at the G/SF, Damian Sanders at PF, and Morkinayo Williams at C. Williams will be a big help to the roster. Being 7 foot he will be one of the biggest players in the A-10. Originally recruited by Kentucky, Williams transfered after just one year there. We have a lot to look forward to from this kid and this team

I will leave you with one bold statement. THIS IS THE YEAR DUQUESNE DOWNS PITT