The Sports Scene

Djokovic Wins Australian Open in Longest Final Ever

2012-01-29T11:09:00.002-06:00

Five hours, 53 minutes of championship tennis. In the end, it was the world's #1 who emerged again, as Novak Djokovic outlasted #2 Rafael Nadal 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 7-5 in the Australian Open Final to win his fifth career Grand Slam, and third in a row.

Djokovic, coming off a season in which he won three Grand Slams, including beating Nadal in both the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals, had hoped for a quicker match, after needing nearly five hours to defeat #4 ranked Andy Murray in the semifinals.

What he and the world got instead was a tennis match with sensational shot after sensational shot. After Nadal won the first set 7-5, Djokovic rallied to win the next two sets 6-4, 6-2 and was up 5-4 in the fourth set before Nadal rallied to win in the tiebreak to force a fifth set. In the fifth, Djokovic finally broke Nadal to go up 6-5, and put a forehand winner away at 1:37 A.M. local time to win his third Australian Open title.

"We made history tonight and unfortunately there couldn't be two winners," Djokovic said.

NBA All-Star Voting

2012-01-28T12:28:00.002-06:00

NBA All-Star voting ends on Tuesday. So if you haven't voted yet, be sure to vote at NBA.com. The players I voted for are below.

Tigers Land Fielder

2012-01-24T15:32:00.001-06:00

Wow. In another deal that was came out of the blue suddenly, the Detroit Tigers have landed free agent 1B Prince Fielder, signing him to a nine year, $214 million deal.

Fielder, 27, hit .299, with 38 home runs, and 120 RBI last season with the Milwaukee Brewers, but was never a strong threat to return to Milwaukee, as he and his mega-agent Scott Boras was going to take the highest offer on the market.

Fielder joins a Detroit Tiger team that was coming off a season in which they advanced to the American League Championship Series behind MVP and Cy Young Justin Verlander and the bats of first baseman Miguel Cabrera and DH Victor Martinez. Martinez was lost for the 2012 season with a torn ACL last week, so Fielder is great replacement for him in the short term. However, long term, this contract, the fourth largest in baseball history, is still insane money, and has little chance of paying off, especially at such a loaded position.

NFL Picks: Conference Championships

2012-01-22T09:30:00.000-06:00

01/22

Ravens

Patriots

‎-2:00 PM (CT) on CBS

Classic defense vs. offense battle in the AFC Championship, with Tom Brady and the explosive Patriots offense trying to outplay the rugged Baltimore defense. Key in the match-up will be how much pressure the Ravens can get on Tom Brady to prevent him from getting the ball to his sensational tight-ends, Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. Baltimore's offense also has to make big plays in the passing game against a susceptible New England secondary. In the end, I just think New England's offense is too advanced and prolific and will make just enough plays to advance.

01/22

Giants

49ers

‎-5:30 PM (CT) on FOX

New York is the hottest team in the playoffs right now, with QB Eli Manning playing like an All-Pro and a defense that is playing its best football of the season when it counts the most. The key for the Niners to cool off the Giants is the formula they've used the whole season, get takeaways (as they did 5 times last week against the Saints) and play solid defense. Getting pressure on Manning is important, but even more so, will be making tackles in the open field on the explosive New York wide receivers Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz and preventing yards after the catch. But in the end, I think Big Blue's defense, which last week, confused and slowed down MVP Aaron Rodgers, will get pressure on Alex Smith and force San Fran's offense to become one-dimensional to reach Super Bowl XLVI.

Last week: 2-2
Season record: 169-95

NFL Picks: Divisional Playoffs

2012-01-14T10:32:00.000-06:00

01/14

Saints

49ers

‎-3:30 PM (CT) on FOX

Prolific New Orleans offense vs. great San Francisco defense. I'll take red-hot QB Drew Brees and the more experienced Saints in a nail-biter.

01/14

Broncos

Patriots

‎-7:00 PM (CT) on CBS

Tebow vs. Brady, Round 2. The real key is whether the Broncos' defense can put enough pressure on Tom Brady and avoid getting picked apart, as they were in their previous match-up. In the end, I don't think they will be able to, and the Broncos will be down too much for any Tebow-led comeback to be possible.

01/15

Texans

Ravens

‎-12:00 PM (CT) on CBS

My hometown Texans have made it this far, without Pro-Bowl LB Mario Williams, and down to our third-string QB in rookie T.J. Yates. It comes down to whether our defense can stifle Baltimore RB Ray Rice. If we limit him, we have a good chance at an upset. But Baltimore is hungry and on paper, they are clearly the better team here.

01/15

Giants

Packers

‎-3:30 PM (CT) on FOX

New York is hot right now, and its defense was dominating last week in shutting out the Falcons' offense, mainly because they stopped the run and got huge pressure on Matt Ryan. Unfortunately for them, the Packers operate on quick passes and don't really utilize the run that much. The result is a big day for Aaron Rodgers, which Eli Manning will have to match to keep the Giants in the game. Advantage: The MVP of the league and the home-team.

Last week: 2-2
Season record: 167-93

BCS National Championship Preview

2012-01-09T13:54:00.000-06:00

It may not be the high-scoring shootout that the other BCS Bowl games have been, but tonight, a national champion in college football will be crowned at the Superdome in New Orleans, LA, as #1 LSU takes on #2 Alabama.

Here are my thoughts on the game.
1. Top two scoring defenses in the country face off for the championship. The old phrase: Defense wins championships certainly applies here.
2. Special teams. In the first game, LSU special teams was spectacular (kicker Alleman 3 for 3 field goals), while Alabama's was dreadful (kicker Foster missed four field goals), which proved to be the difference.
3. Turnover battle. In such a closely matched football game, whichever team can get extra possessions through takeaways usually has advantage.
4. Rest or rust? The two teams last played a game 44 days ago.
5. For LSU to move the ball effectively on the Tide, it all starts with the running game. Michael Ford and Spencer Ware's early success will open up passing game for QB Jordan Jefferson to get the ball to his big play WR Rueben Randle.
6. For Alabama to move the ball on the Tigers, it all starts with the running game. (sound familiar?) Trent Richardson was held to 89 yards rushing in these two teams' first match-up, which put a lot more pressure on young QB AJ McCarron to have to throw the ball 28 times. Also, they must finish drives with TDs and not FG attempts, which failed last time.
7. Potential for split national championship if Alabama wins this time? Man, we need a playoff.

I will be calling the game live with Random Sports Unlimited's Peter Berger. LISTEN HERE.
PREDICTION: In a close matchup that goes down to the wire, behind Jefferson and CB/PR play-maker Tyrann Mathieu, LSU takes home the title.
#1 LSU 20, #2 Alabama 19

NFL Picks: Wildcard Weekend

2012-01-07T13:17:00.001-06:00

01/07	Bengals	vs	Texans	‎-3:30 PM (CT)

01/07	Lions	vs	Saints	‎-7:00 PM (CT)

01/08	Falcons	vs	Giants	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/08	Steelers	vs	Broncos	‎-3:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 8-8
Season record: 165-91

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-01T09:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to all my readers! Here are my Week 17 NFL Picks.

01/01	Bills	vs	Patriots	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Panthers	vs	Saints	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Bears	vs	Vikings	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Lions	vs	Packers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Colts	vs	Jaguars	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Jets	vs	Dolphins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	49ers	vs	Rams	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Titans	vs	Texans	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Redskins	vs	Eagles	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

01/01	Ravens	vs	Bengals	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

01/01	Chiefs	vs	Broncos	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

01/01	Steelers	vs	Browns	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

01/01	Chargers	vs	Raiders	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

01/01	Seahawks	vs	Cardinals	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

01/01	Buccaneers	vs	Falcons	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

01/01

Cowboys

Giants

‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 10-6
Season record: 157-83

Merry Christmas 2011!

2011-12-25T09:30:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to all my readers! Hope you guys enjoy your day with friends and family. After you're done celebrating, dig in with a NBA Christmas Day Quintuple header as well as Sunday Night Football tonight.

Celtics @ Knicks 12 PM ET on TNT
Nothing better to kick off a great slate of action than with Boston's Big 3 at the Garden against 'Melo, Amare and the Knicks in an Atlantic Division showdown.
Heat @ Mavericks 2:30 PM ET on ABC
It's a Finals rematch with Dirk and the retooled Mavs raising the banner and getting their rings in front of LeBron and D-Wade. You have NO excuse not to watch this.
Bulls @ Lakers 5 PM ET on ABC
D-Rose vs. Kobe in Hollywood. Two of the top teams in the league who are anxious to get off to great starts after playoff heartbreak last season.
Magic @ Thunder 8 PM ET on ESPN
Should be shootout from OKC, as Durant, Westbrook host Dwight and all the three-point shooters from Orlando.
Clippers @ Warriors 10:30 PM ET on ESPN
The new-look Clippers start to prove themselves as contenders by opening against Golden State in new head coach Marc Jackson's debut.
Bears @ Packers 8:20 PM ET on NBC
Old fashioned rival, but injury-depleted Chicago should be no problem for a motivated Green Bay team coming off their first loss of the season.

2011-12 NBA Preview

2011-12-24T23:54:00.000-06:00

After a long and nasty lockout, the season is finally here, and begins tomorrow on Christmas Day with a quintuple header.
Here are my projections for the upcoming season.
Western Conference
1. Dallas Mavericks- Defending NBA champions had a busy offseason, losing Tyson Chandler, Caron Butler, and JJ Barea, but retooled adding Vince Carter, Lamar Odom, and Delonte West. In the end, Dallas' front-line defense hurts a little, but it's backcourt play improves, and the Mavs should be able to push the tempo even more offensively.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder- The young Thunder had an outstanding season, advancing all the way to the Conference Finals before falling to eventual champion Dallas. The Kendrick Perkins acquisition should pay off even more in his second year with the team, while Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook return and should only get better as a top-tier scoring duo in the league.
3. Los Angeles Lakers- Yeah, yeah, Clippers this, Clippers that. Lakers are still best team in town with Kobe, Gasol, and Bynum, and a more defensive-minded head coach in Mike Brown.
4. San Antonio Spurs- Let's not forget, the Spurs won 61 games last year, before falling shockingly to Memphis in the first round. The trio of Duncan, Ginobili, and Parker when healthy is still among the best in the league, but for the Spurs, the emergence of secondary role players such as DeJuan Blair, Gary Neal, and James Anderson will determine how far and durable this team is in this lockout-shortened year.
5. Los Angeles Clippers- Finally, it seems, LA's other team has the stars: Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, Chauncey Billups, Caron Butler. But with all the new acquisitions and a shortened training camp, how quickly will things come together for the Clippers? Frontline behind DeAndre Jordan and Griffin also looks super thin now.
6. Memphis Grizzlies- The forgotten team in the West this preseason has been the Grizz, which upset the Spurs last year and took the Thunder to seven games in the second round. Now they get top scorer Rudy Gay back from injury, and he will join Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol in one of the best frontcourts in the league. The guard-play of O.J. Mayo and Mike Conley determine how high the ceiling is on this team.
7. Portland Trailblazers- The Brandon Roy retirement is a sad story, as injuries wreck another such promising young star's career. But, Portland must move on, with breakout-star PF LaMarcus Aldridge as the focal point. Loved the pickup of Raymond Felton and Jamal Crawford in the backcourt to replace Andre Miller and Rudy Fernandez; only question mark on team is at center position where veterans Camby and Kurt Thomas will have to stay healthy.
8. Houston Rockets- Really young 43-win team lacking a superstar returns after an offseason that saw a potential trade that would have unloaded its two best players in Luis Scola and Kevin Martin get rejected, and the hiring of a more defensive-minded coach in Kevin McHale. New philosophy and addition of C Samuel Dalembert should help defense and team reach playoffs.
9. Denver Nuggets- George Karl's team was one of the great surprises in the post-Melo trade, winning 50 games and gelling as a complete team. Without all the players who are stranded in China unable to return (Kenyon Martin, J.R. Smith, Wilson Chandler), I just don't think they'll be able to return to the playoffs. But a lot of upside here with a very young team.
10. Utah Jazz- Jazz have really young front court with a lot of upside, in Enes Kanter and Derrick Favors, but until they develop this is still Paul Millsap and Devin Harris' team.
11. Golden State Warriors- Interesting to see how Marc Jackson does in his first season as a full-time head coach. Lot of great offensive players in Oakland (Ellis/Curry backcourt one of best young combos in West), but does the team have the talent to buy into Jackson's defensive philosophy? I don't think so, at least, not in the first year.
12. Sacramento Kings- Backcourt of the future is hopefully secure, with Jimmer Fredette and Tyreke Evans (as well as Marcus Thornton), but frontcourt remains a question mark. Lot of good pieces but needs to improve defensively as a team even try to push for playoffs.
13. Phoenix Suns- Veterans Steve Nash and Grant Hill are still effective veterans, but this should be another building year in the desert, as I just don't see enough wing talent on this team.
14. Minnesota Timberwolves- I love Rick Adelman as a coach, and Minny should definitely be more fun to watch when they are running his high-tempo offense this year, especially with the additions of Ricky Rubio and Derrick Williams). But they're still a couple seasons a way from being a threat.
15. New Orleans Hornets- CP3 is gone, but at least New Orleans can move on and look to the future. That future isn't this year, though. Backcourt depth is nonexistent, very little outside shooting on this team.
Eastern Conference
1.Miami Heat- Year Two of LeBron's quest for a ring with D-Wade; Miami has more depth at the wing spots this year, adding Shane Battier to provide veteran presence, defense, and outside shooting to the bench. Still did not address center, point guard issues in the offseason.
2. Chicago Bulls- Rip Hamilton should add much needed outside and mid-range shooting at the SG position. Play of front-line (Noah, Boozer, Deng) determines how far Chicago goes this season.
3. Boston Celtics- Still don't understand the Kendrick Perkins trade last year for Boston. Ultimately that lack a center presence opened up driving lanes for Wade and LeBron to eliminate the C's. Liked the pickup of Brandon Bass, should be very good backup or fill-in for Kevin Garnett.
4. New York Knicks- Tyson Chandler certainly makes frontline of Knicks elite, with Amare and Carmelo, but backcourt is still an issue.
5. Orlando Magic- Will Dwight stay or go? That question will detract from Orlando trying to make one last push with this group of veteran three-point shooters around Howard.
6. Indiana Pacers- Addition of all-star PF David West to Indy gives the Pacers a strong front court, with Danny Granger and Roy Hibbert.
7. Philadelphia 76ers- Doug Collins' core of young talent (Iguodala, Jrue Holiday, Thaddeus Young) takes a step forward on the offensive end of the floor, and hopefully Evan Turner emerges as a starting SG in this league.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Bland offseason for the Hawks, who stay with the status quo, only bringing in veteran over-the-hill swingmen in Tracy McGrady and Jerry Stackhouse. Still not enough in the backcourt for Atlanta to be top-tier in the East.
9. Milwaukee Bucks- SG Stephen Jackson is a wing that can light it up at times, something Scott Skiles' team has lacked the last couple of years. PG Brandon Jennings' health is key, as the Bucks try to return to the postseason.
10. Detroit Pistons- Cutting Rip to save the cash shows the state of this franchise. Expect rookie Brandon Knight to surpass Rodney Stuckey at PG at one point. Other than Prince, frontcourt is horrendous.
11. New Jersey Nets- NJ tried and failed to get Dwight Howard in the offseason, so in the final season in Newark, it's basically a two-man team with C Brook Lopez (when he comes back from foot surgery) and all-star PG Deron Williams.
12. Washington Wizards- Lot of young, athletic pieces here, with good backcourt (John Wall, Nick Young). Growth needs to come on the front-line defensively from Andray Blatche and Javale McGee.
13. Charlotte Bobcats- Maggette for Jackson swap is really a wash, Charlotte still lacks a complementary wing for PG D.J. Augustin. Interesting to see how rookies Kemba Walker and Bismack Biyombo fair in their first NBA season.
14. Cleveland Cavaliers- Full rebuild time with Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson, #1 and #4 overall picks coming in. Don't see much improvement here.
15. Toronto Raptors- Oh, Canada. At least you have hockey. Apart from Bargnani and DeRozan, this is a team lacks any solid NBA talent.

NFL Picks: Week 16

2011-12-22T15:27:00.002-06:00

12/22	Texans	vs	Colts	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

12/24	Browns	vs	Ravens	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Broncos	vs	Bills	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Buccaneers	vs	Panthers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Cardinals	vs	Bengals	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Raiders	vs	Chiefs	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Dolphins	vs	Patriots	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Giants	vs	Jets	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Rams	vs	Steelers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Jaguars	vs	Titans	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Vikings	vs	Redskins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/24	Chargers	vs	Lions	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

12/24	Eagles	vs	Cowboys	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/24	49ers	vs	Seahawks	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/25	Bears	vs	Packers	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

12/26

Falcons

Saints

‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 9-7
Season record: 147-77

NFL Picks: Week 15

2011-12-17T17:26:00.000-06:00

12/17	Cowboys	vs	Buccaneers	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

12/18	Dolphins	vs	Bills	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Seahawks	vs	Bears	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Panthers	vs	Texans	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Titans	vs	Colts	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Packers	vs	Chiefs	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Saints	vs	Vikings	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Redskins	vs	Giants	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Bengals	vs	Rams	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/18	Lions	vs	Raiders	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

12/18	Browns	vs	Cardinals	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/18	Patriots	vs	Broncos	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/18	Jets	vs	Eagles	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/18	Ravens	vs	Chargers	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

12/19	Steelers	vs	49ers	‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 13-3
Season record: 138-70

NBA Offseason Central

2011-12-13T12:44:00.000-06:00

UPDATE 12/22/2011 3:11 PM CT
Clippers Land Paul
The Los Angeles Clippers have their guy. They acquire the all-star point guard from the New Orleans Hornets in exchange for SG Eric Gordon, C Chris Kaman, SF Al-Farouq Aminu, and a first round pick. In my opinion, this is giving up an a lot, but if the Clippers are able to sign both Paul and Blake Griffin long term, it could be the beginning of a formidable tandem for LA's other franchise.

Pacers Sign West
The Indiana Pacers bolster their front court, signing former All-Star Hornet PF David West to a two year, $20 million deal.

Nuggets Resign Nene
The Denver Nuggets have resigned top free agent center Nene to a five year contract, worth $67 million, spurning the efforts of the Rockets, Nets, and Pacers to get him away from the team he has played for his entire career.
Mavericks Acquire Odom
The Dallas Mavericks acquire forward Lamar Odom, who was upset at being included in Chris Paul trade talks, from the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for a trade exception and first round pick.
Grizzlies Resign Gasol
Free agent center Marc Gasol has reached a preliminary four year, $58 million deal to stick with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Clippers Match Offer on Jordan
The Los Angeles Clippers match the Golden State Warriors' offer of four years, $43 million on center DeAndre Jordan.
Rockets Sign Dalembert
Houston finally gets a center, signing the former 76er and King to a two year, $13.7 million contract.
Bulls Sign Hamilton
Chicago upgrades at the SG position, signing long-time Piston Rip Hamilton to a three year, $15 million deal.
Heat Sign Battier
Miami signs defensive stopper Shane Battier to a three year, $9 million deal.

Blazers Sign Crawford
Ex-Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford has reached a two year, $10 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Knicks Sign Davis
The New York Knicks bolster their backcourt, signing PG Baron Davis to a one year, $2.5 million deal.
Knicks Acquire Chandler
In a sign and trade with the Dallas Mavericks, the New York Knicks furthered bolstered their front court, acquiring center Tyson Chandler. As part of a three team trade, The Knicks sent veteran center Ronny Turiaf, cash considerations and a 2013 second-round pick to the Washington Wizards and guard Andy Rautins to the Dallas Mavericks. Dallas sent a second-round 2012 draft choice to Washington and the draft rights to Ahmad Nivins and Giorgos Printezis to New York. Washington also sent a future second round draft choice to Dallas.

NFL Picks: Week 14

2011-12-11T10:17:00.000-06:00

12/11	Falcons	vs	Panthers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Texans	vs	Bengals	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Colts	vs	Ravens	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Chiefs	vs	Jets	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Vikings	vs	Lions	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Patriots	vs	Redskins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Saints	vs	Titans	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Eagles	vs	Dolphins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Buccaneers	vs	Jaguars	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/11	Bears	vs	Broncos	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

12/11	49ers	vs	Cardinals	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

12/11	Bills	vs	Chargers	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/11	Raiders	vs	Packers	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/11	Giants	vs	Cowboys	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

12/12	Rams	vs	Seahawks	‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 11-5
Season record: 125-67

Angels Land Albert Pujols

2011-12-08T17:43:00.001-06:00

Money may not grow on trees, but it sure does buy baseball players. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim broke the bank early this morning, signing superstar 1B Albert Pujols for an insane 10 years, $254 million. Pujols, the face of the St. Louis Cardinals, and three-time NL MVP, will now be guaranteed that ridiculous sum of money until he turns 42 years old in 2021.

The deal came largely as a shock, because it was thought that Pujols was deciding between two teams, the Miami Marlins and his hometown Cardinals. In the end, 50 million more dollars, convinced Pujols to start anew out in Anaheim, and follow my hometown Astros to the AL West.

Later in the day, the Angels signed top free agent southpaw C.J. Wilson for five years, $77.5 million.

NFL Picks: Week 13

2011-12-04T10:49:00.001-06:00

12/04	Falcons	vs	Texans	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Panthers	vs	Buccaneers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Bengals	vs	Steelers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Broncos	vs	Vikings	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Colts	vs	Patriots	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Chiefs	vs	Bears	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Jets	vs	Redskins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Raiders	vs	Dolphins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Titans	vs	Bills	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

12/04	Ravens	vs	Browns	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

12/04	Cowboys	vs	Cardinals	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/04	Packers	vs	Giants	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/04	Rams	vs	49ers	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

12/04	Lions	vs	Saints	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

12/05	Chargers	vs	Jaguars	‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 13-3
Season record: 114-62

NFL Picks: Week 12

2011-11-27T10:17:00.001-06:00

11/27	Cardinals	vs	Rams	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Bills	vs	Jets	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Panthers	vs	Colts	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Browns	vs	Bengals	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Texans	vs	Jaguars	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Vikings	vs	Falcons	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Buccaneers	vs	Titans	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/27	Bears	vs	Raiders	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

11/27	Redskins	vs	Seahawks	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

11/27	Broncos	vs	Chargers	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

11/27	Patriots	vs	Eagles	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

11/27	Steelers	vs	Chiefs	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

11/28	Giants	vs	Saints	‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 9-5
Season record: 101-59

NBA Lockout Over

2011-11-26T12:16:00.002-06:00

It was about time. After a 149-day lockout which saw the cancelling of games, the decertification of the players' union, and a lot of name-calling and bitterness, the NBA owners and players finally reached a tentative agreement to end the NBA lockout and save the season.

While details of the deal were not announced publicly, there are reports that the players will receive around 50% of basketball related income, which is lower than the previous 57% they had gotten before. But, in the end, both sides realized the magnitude of what a lost season could mean in a tough economy and reached the agreement in the wee hours this morning.

The season is tentatively set to begin on Christmas Day with a triple header of Celtics @ Knicks, a Finals' rematch of Heat @ Mavericks and Bulls @ Lakers.

Happy Thanksgiving 2011!

2011-11-24T10:30:00.002-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers and hope you guys enjoy a great day.

Here are my Thanksgiving football picks:

Packers @ Lions 12:30 PM ET on FOX
The Lions are having a breakthrough season, and at 7-3, are in position to make the playoffs for the first time since 1999. WR Calvin Johnson and QB Matthew Stafford are among the most lethal combo in the league, and the once maligned defense is 9th in the league now. If anyone can beat stop Aaron Rodgers and the undefeated Packers, it could be Detroit today. In the end, I like Green Bay's experience in a big game, though.

Dolphins @ Cowboys 4:15 PM ET on CBS
Although the Dolphins have won three in a row behind QB Matt Moore, don't expect the win streak to continue in Dallas. The Cowboys are just more talented than Miami, and will be looking to keep pace in the tight NFC East.

49ers @ Ravens 8:20 PM ET on NFL Network
Best matchup of the week in the NFL, with the surprising 9-1 (!) 49ers visiting the 7-3 Ravens in primetime on NFL Network. The storyline, of course, is brother coaches Jim and John Harbaugh, but look for two great defenses led by two great linebackers (Ray Lewis/Patrick Willis) to lay it all on the line tonight. I like the home team in a squeaker.

#25 Texas @ Texas A&M 8 PM ET on ESPN
Disappointing season for both teams, especially for A&M, which had Big 12 title aspirations at the beginning of the year. But the inability to hold halftime leads late have doomed A&M, whose defense has really struggled horribly at times this year. Texas, meanwhile, has had an up and down season and has had to go through growing pains at the QB position, with freshman David Ash and a young group of receivers. The Longhorn's defense has been great, but can UT put up enough points tonight in what could be final meeting between these two rivals in a while? Sadly, I don't think so.

My Thanksgiving Picks:

Galaxy Win MLS Cup

2011-11-21T10:25:00.001-06:00

In front of a record crowd at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California the homeside Los Angeles Galaxy did not disappoint. Behind a 72nd minute Landon Donovan goal, the Galaxy win the 2011 MLS Cup 1-0 over the Houston Dynamo and their third championship in franchise history. The win caps off an amazing season for LA, which won the Supporters' Shield with a league-high 67 points in the regular season. It also finally gives DP David Beckham the championship ring that had been eluding him throughout his five year contract with LA.

For the Dynamo, playing without team MVP Brad Davis, who was out due to a quad tear, holding and keeping possession of the ball against the talented Galaxy was an issue all night long. Without Davis' service and dribbling ability, the Dynamo never really looked dangerous, and a great playoff run comes to an end one win short of the title.

Full highlights of the match are below.

2011 MLS Cup Final Preview

2011-11-20T11:26:00.001-06:00

Tonight, out in Carson, California, America's soccer champion will be crowned at the 2011 MLS Cup Final, with the Houston Dynamo taking on the host Los Angeles Galaxy. Each club, will be trying to win its third championship in team history. The match is set for a kickoff of 8 PM CT and can be seen live on ESPN or ESPN3.com.

My hometown Dynamo, the champions of the Eastern Conference, have been the hottest team in MLS over the last month. In their 2-0 win in the East Final over Sporting Kansas City, MVP Candidate Brad Davis tore his quad in the first half, and yet, the Dynamo got goals from Andre Hainault and Carlo Costly in the second half to stun a capacity crowd at Livestrong Sporting Park.

Meanwhile, the favorite LA Galaxy and its stars Landon Donovan, David Beckham, and MLS Defender of the Year Omar Gonzalez, this is a golden opportunity for them to finally pay off on their designated player investments over the last five years which has netted them several Supporter Shields but zero MLS Cup championships. After a 3-1 dismantling of Real Salt Lake in the West Final, the pressure on Bruce Arena's club to deliver a championship in what could be David Beckham's final game in MLS (his contract expires after the season) in their home stadium is enormous.

For the Dynamo, not having Davis and his golden left foot for the match hurts a ton. However, this team has stuck together throughout the playoffs, and through stifling defending in the back, and timely set-piece goals, Houston certainly has a fighter's chance to win the Cup tonight. Although, LA's talent-level is scary good, and it's their cup to lose, I have to go with my heart and pick my hometown team to shock the soccer world tonight.

NFL Picks: Week 11

2011-11-20T11:05:00.002-06:00

11/20	Bills	vs	Dolphins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Panthers	vs	Lions	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Bengals	vs	Ravens	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Cowboys	vs	Redskins	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Jaguars	vs	Browns	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Raiders	vs	Vikings	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Buccaneers	vs	Packers	‎-12:00 PM (CT)

11/20	Cardinals	vs	49ers	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

11/20	Seahawks	vs	Rams	‎-3:05 PM (CT)

11/20	Chargers	vs	Bears	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

11/20	Titans	vs	Falcons	‎-3:15 PM (CT)

11/20	Eagles	vs	Giants	‎-7:20 PM (CT)

11/21	Chiefs	vs	Patriots	‎-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 7-9
Season record: 92-54

NFL Picks: Week 10

2011-11-13T10:52:00.003-06:00

11/13	Cardinals	vs	Eagles	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Bills	vs	Cowboys	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Broncos	vs	Chiefs	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Texans	vs	Buccaneers	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Jaguars	vs	Colts	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Saints	vs	Falcons	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Steelers	vs	Bengals	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Rams	vs	Browns	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Titans	vs	Panthers	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Redskins	vs	Dolphins	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/13	Ravens	vs	Seahawks	-3:05 PM (CT)

11/13	Lions	vs	Bears	- 3:15 PM (CT)

11/13	Giants	vs	49ers	-3:15 PM (CT)

11/13	Patriots	vs	Jets	-7:20PM (CT)

11/14	Vikings	vs	Packers	-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 5-9
Season record: 85-45

2011 MLS Cup Playoffs: Conference Championships

2011-11-06T10:09:00.003-06:00

Eastern Conference
Houston Dynamo @ Sporting Kansas City
Today 4:30 PM CT Fox Soccer

The top two seeds in the Eastern Conference advanced with relative ease, as both KC and Houston won both their games with their respective opponents (Colorado and Philly, respectively). This should be a showdown at Livestrong Sporting Park, with a lot of firepower from both sides. The top two set-piece teams in the league, dead ball situations with Houston's Brad Davis and KC's Graham Zusi will be key to who wins the match. In addition, KC trio of Teal Bunbury, Omar Bravo, and Kei Kamara up top are among the most explosive in the league, while Houston's duo of veteran Brian Ching and the speedy Calen Carr are just as productive.
It's truly a tossup, but I have to go with my hometown Dynamo in a one-goal squeaker, potentially decided in extra time or penalty kicks.

Western Conference
Real Salt Lake @ Los Angeles Galaxy
Today 8 PM CT ESPN

It's a rematch of the 2009 MLS Cup, in which RSL stunned LA in penalty kicks to win its first championship. Expect another classic tonight. RSL is in form after impressively taking out Seattle thanks to a convincing 3-0 first leg win at Rio Tinto and holding for a 3-2 aggregate win after losing 2-0 in Seattle. Always solid in the midfield with stars Kyle Beckerman and Javier Morales, the key for RSL is staying solid in the back, where they have had problems at times this season with breakaways and quick counters. Against David Beckham, Landon Donovan, Juniho, each of which can turn a giveaway into a goal very easily, RSL must be very careful. In the end, I think LA advances behind more possession and finishing, which they didn't do last year against FC Dallas in the West Final.

NFL Picks: Week 9

2011-11-06T09:00:00.000-06:00

11/06	Falcons	vs	Colts	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	Browns	vs	Texans	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	Dolphins	vs	Chiefs	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	Jets	vs	Bills	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	Seahawks	vs	Cowboys	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	49ers	vs	Redskins	- 12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	Buccaneers	vs	Saints	-12:00 PM (CT)

11/06	Bengals	vs	Titans	-3:05 PM (CT)

11/06	Broncos	vs	Raiders	-3:05 PM (CT)

11/06	Packers	vs	Chargers	-3:15 PM (CT)

11/06	Giants	vs	Patriots	-3:15 PM (CT)

11/06	Rams	vs	Cardinals	-3:15 PM (CT)

11/06	Ravens	vs	Steelers	-7:20 PM (CT)

11/07	Bears	vs	Eagles	-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 10-3
Season record: 80-36

NFL Picks: Week 8

2011-10-30T10:44:00.002-05:00

10/30	Cardinals	vs	Ravens	-12:00 PM (CT)

10/30	Colts	vs	Titans	-12:00 PM (CT)

10/30	Jaguars	vs	Texans	-12:00 PM (CT)

10/30	Dolphins	vs	Giants	-12:00 PM (CT)

10/30	Vikings	vs	Panthers	-12:00 PM (CT)

10/30	Saints	vs	Rams	-12:00 PM (CT)

10/30	Lions	vs	Broncos	-3:05 PM (CT)

10/30	Redskins	vs	Bills	-3:05 PM (CT)

10/30	Bengals	vs	Seahawks	-3:15 PM (CT)

10/30	Browns	vs	49ers	-3:15 PM (CT)

10/30	Patriots	vs	Steelers	-3:15 PM (CT)

10/30	Cowboys	vs	Eagles	-7:20 PM (CT)

10/31	Chargers	vs	Chiefs	-7:30 PM (CT)

Last week: 8-5
Season record: 70-33

Cardinals Win World Series

2011-10-29T12:18:00.000-05:00

Absolutely stunning. There is no other way to describe what the St. Louis Cardinals did in winning their 11th World Series Championship. After coming all the way back in NL Wild Card Race to catch and pass the Braves, and dispatching of NL favorites Philadelphia and Milwaukee, and having to survive "Phonegate" in Game 5 and the ridiculous comeback in Game 6, there was no way the Cardinals would be denied last night in Game 7 of the World Series.

MVP David Freese followed up his game-tying 2-run triple and walkoff homerun in Game 6 with an early two-run double in the first inning last night to set the tone, Allen Craig followed with his series-leading third home run in the third, and the Cardinal pitching did the rest in shutting down the Rangers 6-2 in the first Game 7 of the Fall Classic since 2002.

St. Louis, which last won the title in 2006, was a team that was an underdog in every postseason series (I picked against them and was wrong three times).

"It's hard to explain how this happened," Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said.

But this team just fought through all adversity and stuck together behind their outstanding bullpen, great manager, and incredible clutch hitting up and down the lineup (Other than his incredible performance in Game 3, Albert Pujols was nonfactor in series). With contributions from Lance Berkman (former Astro who well-deservedly wins his 1st ring), Craig, and MVP Freese, this was truly a remarkable team effort that paid dividends for the Cardinals.

Unfortunately for Texas, being one strike away in Game 6 on two separate occasions and losing its second straight World Series, will haunt this team all winter long. Nelson Cruz will remember not being able to catch David Freese's ball in the 9th inning in Game 6, costing his team the championship. The bullpen will remember imploding in the World Series, after having such an amazing regular season and playoff. The lineup will remember all those base runners left on base in Game 6 and the inability to solve Chris Carpenter and the bullpen. But in the end, it ultimately just wasn't meant to be, as the Cardinals were a team of destiny not to be denied.

2011 MLS Cup Playoffs: Conference Semifinals

2011-10-29T11:22:00.000-05:00

As I correctly predicted, New York and Colorado successfully advanced in the wildcard round to set up these conference semifinal matchups (which are two game aggregate goal series, whoever has higher goal-differential after two legs wins series)

Western Conference
(4) New York Red Bulls vs. (1) Los Angeles Galaxy
Leg 1 @ NY: Sunday 2 PM CT ESPN2
Leg 2 @ LA: Thursday 10 PM CT ESPN2

Good for New York to take out Dallas, which had been struggling for about 3 months and finally ran out of us. But I just don't see them taking out the Supporter Shield Winning Galaxy.

(3) Real Salt Lake vs. (2) Seattle Sounders
Leg 1 @ RSL: Tonight 9 PM CT Fox Soccer
Leg 2 @ SEA: Wednesday 9 PM CT ESPN2

What a match-up this should be. In the end, I like Seattle with the home-field advantage and the better form (RSL struggled down the stretch, only got #3 seed because Dallas struggled worse)

Eastern Conference
(4) Colorado Rapids vs. (1) Sporting Kansas City
Leg 1 @ COL: Sunday 6:30 PM CT Fox Soccer
Leg 2 @ KC: Wednesday 7 PM CT Fox Soccer

Another great match-up with the defending champions taking on upstart, streaking Sporting Kansas City. Loads of great strikers in this series, with Omar Cummings on Colorado and Kei Kamara and Omar Bravo for KC. Both goalkeepers are also very good, in veterans Matt Pickens and Jimmy Nielsen. KC is on the run of better form at the moment, but I think the playoff experience of Colorado will help them score the upset.

(3) Philadelphia Union vs. (2) Houston Dynamo
Leg 1 @ PHI: Sunday 4 PM CT ESPN2
Leg 2 @ HOU: Thursday 7:30 PM CT ESPN2

I actually attended the Union/Dynamo game to start the season this year, in which Philly won 1-0 due to an early goal off a throw-in and successful deep defending for the rest of the match. Between two of the most physical teams in the league, this series calls for a lot of fouls and potential cards. In the end, I have to go with the playoff experience of my hometown Dynamo and the advantage Houston has in set pieces due to MLS assist leader Brad Davis.

2011 MLS Cup Playoffs: Wildcard Round

2011-10-26T15:26:00.000-05:00

Tonight, the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs begin, with the wildcard round.

New this season to the postseason format of MLS, the top four teams in the league to not finish in the top three in their conference participate in a one-game playoff to advance to the conference semifinal round. Here are this year's wildcard matchups:

Tonight: (10) New York Red Bulls @ (7) FC Dallas 8 PM CT Fox Soccer
After a hot start to the season, Dallas has cooled off lately, getting knocked out of the CONCACAF Champions League and stumbling out of the top three in the West to having to play in the wildcard round. New York, meanwhile, everyone's preseason MLS Cup favorite, has struggled mightily and barely snuck into the playoffs with a late surge.

Pick: Dallas' offensive struggles end their season prematurely, and New York advances 1-0 on a Thierry Henry goal.

Thursday: (9) Columbus Crew @ (8) Colorado Rapids 10 PM CT MLSSoccer.com
Columbus was one of the real surprises this season, as the Crew were not supposed to be competitive in what was built as a rebuilding year. But head coach Robert Warzycha has done a good job in making the Crew a playoff team, through U.S. International midfielder Robbie Rogers and a solid, yet inconsistent defense. Meanwhile, the defending champions from last year have been one of the most inconsistent teams in the league all season. Although the Rapids have lost all-star forward Conor Casey for the season, it still has firepower with Omar Cummings, Brian Mullan, and Jeff Larentowicz.

Pick: Rapids are at home, where they have been very good over the years, they win 2-1 and keep their title repeat chances alive.

NFL Picks: Week 7

2011-10-23T09:15:00.003-05:00

10/23	Falcons	vs	Lions	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Bears	vs	Buccaneers	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Broncos	vs	Dolphins	- 1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Texans	vs	Titans	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Chargers	vs	Jets	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Seahawks	vs	Browns	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Redskins	vs	Panthers	- 1:00 PM (ET)

10/23	Chiefs	vs	Raiders	- 4:05 PM (ET)

10/23	Steelers	vs	Cardinals	- 4:05 PM (ET)

10/23	Packers	vs	Vikings	- 4:15 PM (ET)

10/23	Rams	vs	Cowboys	- 4:15 PM (ET)

10/23	Colts	vs	Saints	- 8:20 PM (ET)

10/24	Ravens	vs	Jaguars	- 8:30 PM (ET)

Last week: 10-3
Season record: 62-28

2011 World Series Prediction

2011-10-19T15:16:00.003-05:00

And the 2011 World Series Champion will be...

Here's why:
Who would have thought at the beginning of the year that it would be down to Texas and St. Louis in the World Series. The Rangers, last year's runner-up, have had a great season and rode its explosive lineup (holy cow, Nelson Cruz was unstoppable in ALCS) and good bullpen to return to the Fall Classic. The Cardinals, meanwhile, have overcome all odds in first catching Atlanta in the NL Wildcard race, and then topping NL favorites Philly and Milwaukee, using outstanding pitching and clutch hitting to win its 18th NL Pennant.
So, let's break it down. Both lineups definitely have the potential for big innings. The Rangers' lineup, however, is definitely more well-rounded, led by ALCS MVP Nelson Cruz, who hit a record-breaking six home-runs in their domination of the Tigers. But behind him, Josh Hamilton, Michael Young, Adrian Beltre, and Ian Kinsler are all Silver Slugger contenders at their positions, and catcher Mike Napoli has provided big hits over the second half of the season as well. Although St. Louis can counter with the best hitter in the game in Albert Pujols, as well as red-hot NLCS MVP David Freese, and Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday in the outfield, offensively, Texas just has more depth.
As far as pitching, both rotations are inconsistent, but overall, the Rangers' core of starting pitching has been good enough to eat up innings. Starters C.J. Wilson, Colby Lewis, Derrick Holland, and Matt Harrison, as well as closer Neftali Feliz are all pretty solid and should be up to the challenge in the Rangers' second consecutive World Series. Of course, the Cardinals have the best pitcher in the series in ace Chris Carpenter, but behind him, Jaime Garcia, Edwin Jackson, and Kyle Lohse have been erratic and inconsistent. The Cardinals got by Milwaukee largely because its bullpen came up huge, with manager Tony LaRussa constantly mixing and matching pitchers coming out of the 'pen to perfection. Can this formula for success, with Salas, Rzepcynski, Lynn, and Motte coming in for ineffective starters and shutting the door, give St. Louis its 11th championship banner?

The biggest key in the series is seeing which pitching staff can survive and prevent big innings by the opposition's offense. Both Milwaukee and Detroit were unable to stop explosive four or five run innings, which in the baseball postseason, will usually lead to elimination. In the end, I think the Rangers are the better team, with the more consistent starting pitching, and well-rounded lineup.

Rangers in 7.

NFL Picks: Week Six

2011-10-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

10/16	Bills	vs	Giants	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	Panthers	vs	Falcons	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	Colts	vs	Bengals	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	Jaguars	vs	Steelers	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	Eagles	vs	Redskins	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	49ers	vs	Lions	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	Rams	vs	Packers	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/16	Browns	vs	Raiders	-4:05 PM (ET)

10/16	Texans	vs	Ravens	-4:05 PM (ET)

10/16	Cowboys	vs	Patriots	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/16	Saints	vs	Buccaneers	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/16	Vikings	vs	Bears	-8:20 PM (ET)

10/17	Dolphins	vs	Jets	-8:30 PM (ET)

Last week: 6-7
Season record: 52-25

NFL Picks: Week Five

2011-10-09T09:56:00.000-05:00

10/09	Cardinals	vs	Vikings	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Bengals	vs	Jaguars	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Chiefs	vs	Colts	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Saints	vs	Panthers	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Raiders	vs	Texans	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Eagles	vs	Bills	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Seahawks	vs	Giants	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Titans	vs	Steelers	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/09	Buccaneers	vs	49ers	-4:05 PM (ET)

10/09	Jets	vs	Patriots	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/09	Chargers	vs	Broncos	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/09	Packers	vs	Falcons	-8:20 PM (ET)

10/10	Bears	vs	Lions	-8:30 PM (ET)

Last week: 12-4
Season record: 46-18

2011 LCS Picks

2011-10-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

ALCS
This should be another great postseason series, as I see both these teams almost evenly matched. Both teams depend a lot on the home-run for instant offense, and have the hitter-friendly ballpark to put up a lot of runs quickly. For example, the Tigers' Delmon Young and Rangers' Adrian Beltre each belted three home-runs in their respective Division Series wins, and they are not even the team's best hitter (Cabrera and Hamilton). In the end, however, it always comes down to pitching, and both team's have solid, above-average rotations and bullpens. The Tigers' front-line trio of Justin Verlander, Doug Fister, and Max Scherzer looked impressive in taking out the Bronx Bombers, and I like their consistency over that of the Rangers' starters of C.J. Wilson, Derek Holland, and Colby Lewis. And although Jose Valverde has his adventures in the 9th, he has not blown a save the whole season.
It's pretty much a toss-up in the end, but I just like the feeling around this Tigers' team. Of course, it doesn't hurt to have the Cy Young winner either.
in 7

NLCS
It's an NL Central showdown for the right to go to the World Series, after the Cards shocked the Phillies in five. Milwaukee finally got out of the first round thanks to clutch hitting and good pitching in its wins. Zach Grienke and Yovani Gallardo were really strong for the Brewers, but fellow starters Shawn Marcum and Randy Wolf need to bounce-back after getting lit up in the Arizona desert. And against an underrated St. Louis lineup that still has playoff veterans Albert Pujols and Lance Berkman, suspect pitching will doom Milwaukee. Luckily, the Brewers have bats of their own, in the form of Braun, Fielder, and Nyjer "Tony Clutch" Morgan. The Cards' pitching and Chris Carpenter was absolutely awesome in shutting down the Phillies, but can Jaime Garcia, Kyle Lohse, and Edwin Jackson also contain Milwaukee's more consistent lineup? In the end, the Brewers just have more talent across the board (starting pitching, bullpen, lineup) and should win.

in 7

NFL Picks: Week Four

2011-10-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

10/02	Bills	vs	Bengals	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Panthers	vs	Bears	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Lions	vs	Cowboys	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Vikings	vs	Chiefs	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Saints	vs	Jaguars	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Steelers	vs	Texans	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	49ers	vs	Eagles	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Titans	vs	Browns	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Redskins	vs	Rams	-1:00 PM (ET)

10/02	Falcons	vs	Seahawks	-4:05 PM (ET)

10/02	Giants	vs	Cardinals	-4:05 PM (ET)

10/02	Broncos	vs	Packers	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/02	Dolphins	vs	Chargers	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/02	Patriots	vs	Raiders	-4:15 PM (ET)

10/02	Jets	vs	Ravens	-8:20 PM (ET)

10/03

Colts

Buccaneers

-8:30 PM (ET)

Week 3 record: 10-6
Season record: 34-14

2011 NLDS and ALDS Preview

2011-09-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

National League
Cardinals vs. Phillies
How they got here: The Redbirds made a great September push for the postseason, and with help from collapsing Atlanta, impressively qualified as the NL wildcard. The Phillies, meanwhile, wrapped up the NL East early again, winning a league high 102 games.

Prediction: I think St. Louis' magical run comes to an end rather quickly. The Phillies will throw Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels, starting pitching that St. Louis cannot match with the likes Edwin Jackson and Kyle Lohse after Chris Carpenter.
in 4

Diamondbacks vs. Brewers
How they got here: Arizona went worst-to-first in the NL West this year, and had eliminated the defending World Champions by mid-September behind much-improved pitching led by ace Ian Kennedy and an offense that thrives on the longball. Meanwhile, Milwaukee's all-in approach in the last year of Prince Fielder's current contract has paid off, as the previous inept pitching staff has put together a great season.

Prediction: This is truly a tossup, but in the end, I'll give the edge to the more experienced team that has home-field advantage.
in 5.

American League
Rays vs. Rangers
How they got here: What a comeback it was for Tampa to win the AL Wildcard. Down 7-0 to the Yankees in the 8th inning Wednesday, and with Boston winning 3-2 in Baltimore, it was all but over for the Rays. But a furious 8 unanswered runs and a Boston-bullpen collapse later, and they were partying in St. Petersburg. Texas, meanwhile, took the more conventional route in winning the rather mediocre AL West.
Prediction: This is a playoff rematch of last year, and although teams are different, I think the end result will be the same. Although Tampa does boost the better starting pitching, I think Texas' trio of Hamilton, Michael Young, and Adrian Beltre have enough talent to outscore the Rays' rather mediocre lineup.
in 5.
Tigers vs. Yankees
How they got here: The Bronx Bombers answered their early season pitching concerns and cruised down the stretch to the AL East crown yet again, while Detroit rode its Cy Young Winner and potent offense in wrapping up the AL Central fairly early.

Prediction: This will the most intriguing series, in my opinion and can almost go either way. CC Sabathia vs. Justin Verlander is a match-up of pure power and dominance, but whoever pitches better behind each of them will decide the outcome of this series. Detroit's offense led by Miguel Cabrera is more balanced than the Bombers', and as long as Doug Fister, Max Scherzer and the bullpen are able to keep the ball in the ballpark, the Tigers will have enough to pull off the upset. And until they can show me, I don't think Ivan Nova and Freddy Garcia will be able to step up to the postseason New York pressure.

in 5.

My 2011 MLB Awards

2011-09-27T15:42:00.003-05:00

It's the end of another great baseball season. 6 out of 8 playoff spots are set, with only the AL and NL Wildcards left to be decided today and tomorrow. (Red Sox/Rays tied in AL, Braves up 1 game on Cardinals in NL) Here are my picks forthis season's awards.

AL MVP: Jacoby Ellsbury, Boston Red Sox (.323, 31 HR, 103 RBI)
The catalyst for the Boston lineup, Ellsbury has had an amazing year, not only continuing to hit for a high average, play great defense in center field, and steal bases (38 steals), but also through his added power which has paid dividends in the amount of production he has provided at the top of the lineup. Honorable mention goes to Curtis Granderson of the Yankees and fellow Red Sox Adrian Gonzalez.
NL MVP: Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers (.324, 38 HR, 123 RBI)
If Kemp were on a playoff team, this would be a no-brainer. Regardless, I think he is deserving for the ridiculous statistics he has put up despite having little to no protection in the lineup, and all the financial troubles the Dodgers franchise continues to have because of the idiotic McCourt divorce. Plus, it's not like LA is in last place; they're above .500. Honorable mention to Ryan Braun of the Brewers and Albert Pujols of the Cardinals.
AL Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers (24-5, 2.40 ERA, 250 K)
Not even close, it's Verlander by a landslide. In addition to that ridiculous win-total (haven't seen 24 put up by a pitcher in a while), Verlander has been absolutely dominant, and has won his last 12 games for the AL-Central Champion Tigers. Add in the no-hitter he threw against Toronto, and he may even be AL MVP worthy.
NL Cy Young: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers (21-5, 2.28 ERA, 248 K)
Breakout season, anyone? The 23-year old southpaw will win the NL pitching Triple Crown, leading the league in wins, ERA, and strikeouts in just his 4th season in the big leagues. Honorable mention to Roy Halladay of the Phillies.
AL Rookie of Year: Jeremy Hellickson, Tampa Bay Rays (13-10, 2.90 ERA, 116 K)
Considering the extremely high expectations bestowed in him coming into this season, Hellickson has had a great year and lived up to all the hype. A solid anchor in Tampa's rotation, and pitching in the toughest division in baseball, he has held his own, and edges out the Angels' Mark Trumbo for the award.
NL Rookie of Year: Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves (46/53 SV, 1.00 WHIP, 126 K)
Only 23, Kimbrel broke Neftali Feliz's rookie-save record from last year, and has been untouchable in closing games for Atlanta. 126 strikeouts in 76 1/3 innings while in a playoff race is video game-like dominant.

NFL Picks: Week Three

2011-09-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

09/25	Broncos	vs	Titans	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Lions	vs	Vikings	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Texans	vs	Saints	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Jaguars	vs	Panthers	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Dolphins	vs	Browns	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Patriots	vs	Bills	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Giants	vs	Eagles	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	49ers	vs	Bengals	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/25	Ravens	vs	Rams	-4:05 PM (ET)

09/25	Chiefs	vs	Chargers	-4:05 PM (ET)

09/25	Jets	vs	Raiders	-4:05 PM (ET)

09/25	Cardinals	vs	Seahawks	-4:15 PM (ET)

09/25	Falcons	vs	Buccaneers	-4:15 PM (ET)

09/25	Packers	vs	Bears	-4:15 PM (ET)

09/25	Steelers	vs	Colts	-8:20 PM (ET)

09/26

Redskins

Cowboys

-8:30 PM (ET)

Week 2 record: 13-3
Season record: 24-8

NFL Picks: Week Two

2011-09-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

09/18	Packers	vs	Panthers	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Browns	vs	Colts	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Bears	vs	Saints	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Ravens	vs	Titans	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Cardinals	vs	Redskins	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Buccaneers	vs	Vikings	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Seahawks	vs	Steelers	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Raiders	vs	Bills	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Chiefs	vs	Lions	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Jaguars	vs	Jets	-1:00 PM (ET)

09/18	Cowboys	vs	49ers	-4:05 PM (ET)

09/18	Chargers	vs	Patriots	-4:15 PM (ET)

09/18	Texans	vs	Dolphins	-4:15 PM (ET)

09/18	Bengals	vs	Broncos	-4:15 PM (ET)

09/18	Eagles	vs	Falcons	-8:20 PM (ET)

09/19

Rams

Giants

-8:30 PM (ET)

Last week's record: 11-5

NFL Picks: Week One

2011-09-11T09:34:00.002-05:00

9/8 Saints 34, Packers 42 Final

9/11	Colts	vs	Texans	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Lions	vs	Buccaneers	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Bengals	vs	Browns	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Bills	vs	Chiefs	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Falcons	vs	Bears	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Titans	vs	Jaguars	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Steelers	vs	Ravens	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Eagles	vs	Rams	-1:00 PM (ET)

9/11	Seahawks	vs	49ers	-4:15 PM (ET)

9/11	Giants	vs	Redskins	-4:15 PM (ET)

9/11	Vikings	vs	Chargers	-4:15 PM (ET)

9/11	Panthers	vs	Cardinals	-4:15 PM (ET)

9/11	Cowboys	vs	Jets	-8:20 PM (ET)

9/12	Patriots	vs	Dolphins	-7:00 PM (ET)

9/12	Raiders	vs	Broncos	-10:15 PM (ET)

Last season's record: 169-98

My 2011 AFC South Preview

2011-09-07T21:05:00.003-05:00

1. Houston Texans
2010 Record: 6-10
Projected 2011 Record: 10-6
The Offense
The Texans’ offense was great as usual last season, as the team had to put together a ridiculous amount of late game comebacks due to the fact that they always fell behind by double digits early in games. The previously nonexistent rushing attack exploded, with RB Arian Foster winning the league rushing title and All-Pro honors in his first season as full-time starter. Barring a nagging hamstring injury that has hampered him throughout training camp and the preseason, Foster, along with five returning starters on a good offensive line and quality backup backs in Derrick Ward and Ben Tate, should thrive again in Houston’s backfield.

Meanwhile, although QB Matt Schaub had a bit of a down year last season, the Texans still ranked third in the league in passing and will direct a high-octane attack again this year, with All-Pro WR Andre Johnson and TE Owen Daniels both coming strong seasons.

The Defense
Houston’s defense was atrocious last season, and may have been the most incompetent unit in NFL history in trying to stop the run. Gary Kubiak and Rick Smith’s strategy of “Let’s draft defensive backs and throw them out there” backfired, with CB Brice McCain and Kareem Jackson being humiliated time and time again last year. Enter long-time defensive guru Wade Phillips, who has installed his 3-4 scheme, along with free agent cornerback Johnathan Joseph and safety Danieal Manning, who should all play a role in improving a unit that has nowhere to go but up. After all, the defense still has playmakers in ILB’s Brian Cushing and DeMeco Ryans and OLB Mario Williams.

The Key
Wade Phillip’s defense. It is playoffs or bust for head coach Gary Kubiak and the Texans, who will be entering their 10^th season. The offense is playoff caliber, but Phillips must put together all the pieces on the other side of the ball for Houston to finally taste the postseason.

2. Indianapolis Colts
2010 Record: 10-6
Projected 2011 Record: 9-7

The Offense
My, oh my, Manning is not ready to start the season, and how many additional games will he miss? That is the million dollar question in Indy as the season begins, as QB Peyton Manning continues to recover from offseason neck surgery. Recently unretired veteran Kerry Collins will take the reins, for now, of an offense for at that led the league in passing yards last year, and was fourth overall, despite numerous injuries last year.

As for the rest of the offense, the Colts used their first two draft picks in 2011 to shore up Manning’s blindside, getting Anthony Castonzo and Ben Ijalana, who are expected to start at LT and LG respectively.

At the skill positions, Indy returns its core set of playmakers, RB Joseph Addai in the backfield, WR Reggie Wayne, the frequently injured Anthony Gonzalez, and Pierre Garcon out wide, and TE Dallas Clark, who is also coming back from a season ending injury, across the middle.

The Defense
The 20th ranked defense from last year returns intact. DEs Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis remain one of the best combos in the league and the Colts also added former Bear DT Tommie Harris and third-round pick Drake Nevis to the line. The Colts struggled to stop the run at times last year, and the linebacking core of returning starters MLB Gary Brackett and OLB Clint Session, as well as new-starter Pat Angerer will need to play well to avoid being shredded by the likes of Foster, Johnson, and Jones-Drew in the division. The sometimes susceptible secondary hopes to get a return from injury by SS Melvin Bullett, while FS Antoine Bethea, and CB Jerraud Powers and Jacob Lacey should be solid.
The Key
Peyton Manning’s health. With him, the Colts are AFC Championship contenders. Without him, they are wildcard team at best.

3. Tennessee Titans
2010 Record: 6-10
Projected 2011 Record: 6-10
The Offense
The Titans offense had a season to forget last year, with QB Vince Young going down in week one with an injury and then going semi-crazy. Veteran QB Kerry Collins and rookie Rusty Smith were not effective at all in replacing Young, and the team ended up 25^th in the league in passing at the end of the year. To address the QB situation, new head coach Mike Munchak and the Titans drafted Jake Locker with their first round pick and also signed veteran Matt Hasselbeck, who will begin the season as the starter.

At the skill positions, RB Chris Johnson is one of the best in the league, and should be ready to go after the Titans gave him a four year, $53 million contract extension just last week. At WR, Kenny Britt had a nice breakout season, but other than that, the targets for Hasselbeck are average at best, with Nate Washington, Justin Gage, and rookie TE Jared Cook.

The Defense
Unfortunately for the Titans, their defense was not better last season, ranking 26^th in the league. It shouldn’t be much better this season either, as Tennessee lost DE Jason Babin, who led the team in sacks last year, to the Philadelphia Eagles. They did add OLB Akeem Ayers with their second round pick and ILB Barrett Ruud from the Buccaneers, but there are just so many holes on the defensive line, and in the secondary other than punk CB Cortland Finnegan.

The Key
The defense. Tennessee got to the playoffs in 2008 with a monster, shutdown defense. Most of the veterans from that unit are gone now, so for this team to even compete for a winning record this year, it’s on the young players on this defense to step up their game.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars
2010 Record: 8-8
Projected 2011 Record: 6-10
The Offense
The Jaguars 15^th ranked offense from a season ago was completely geared toward the run, as Pro-Bowl RB Maurice Jones-Drew produced week in and week out, helping Jacksonville rank 3^rd in the league in rushing. The solid offensive line returns intact this year, and the running game projects to thrive again in 2011.

The passing game is another story. Minus the remarkable Hail Mary pass against the Texas last year, the Jags’ pass offense was mediocre last year, ranking 27^th in the league. In response, Jacksonville took QB Blaine Gabbert with the 10^th pick of the draft, and hope he will become the long-term starter under center. For now, however, journeyman Luke McCown is the starter, as 2010 starter David Garrard was released on Tuesday. Unfortunately for McCown, his down-field targets are average at best, with TE Marcedes Lewis probably the most consistent, as leading WR Mike Sims-Walker left for St. Louis, leaving Jason Hill and Mike Thomas as the starting wide-outs.

The Defense
The 28^th ranked defense from a season ago really has nowhere to go but up. Acquiring linebackers Paul Posluszny and Clint Session should help solidify the run-stopping, while safety Dawan Landry will definitely help the secondary.

But there are still a lot of questions in the defensive line, which struggled to get consistent pressure on the QB last season, ranking 30^th in sacks. Getting DE Aaron Kampman back from injury will help a little, but he’ll help from DT Tyson Alaulu and Travis Knighton, as well as opposite DE Aaron Roth.

The Key
The improvement of the defense. The Jaguars took advantage of a very easy schedule last season to finish 8-8. This year’s slate looks to be much tougher, and whether or not the Jaguars can stay in the playoff hunt will depend on their ability to rush the passer and improve in the secondary.

Thome Hits #600

2011-08-16T13:21:00.002-05:00

Last night, at Comerica Park in Detroit, Twins DH Jim Thome became the eighth player in major league baseball history to hit 600 career homeruns. Thome, one inning after hitting #599 took Tigers' lefty Daniel Schlereth deep in the seventh inning to the opposite field, giving Minneosta a 9-5 lead in their game with Detroit. The Tigers fans gave him a nice standing ovation regardless, recognizing a truly great accomplishment.

"It's an unbelievable night, obviously," Thome said. "I think it's something you never dream of doing. You dream about it, but when it finally happens, it's kind of surreal. It's a neat thing, it really is. Hitting home runs can be very difficult.

Keegan Bradley Wins PGA in Playoff

2011-08-15T17:46:00.004-05:00

It was all over for Keegan Bradley after the 15th hole at the 93rd PGA Championship at Atlanta Athletic Club on Sunday. Only two shots back of 54-hole leader Jason Dufner going into the brutal final four holes, Bradley's second shot on the par-three from the rough was a chip downhill onto the green that was hit way too hard, and ended up falling into the waterhazard, leading to a triple bogey.

But whether you can call it a complete collapse by Dufner, or a miraculous comeback by Bradley, Dufner's ensuing tee-shot on the 15th also found the water, starting a set of three consecutive bogeys on 15, 16, and 17. Bradley, meanwhile, holed long, difficult birdie putts on 16 and 17, and suddenly, four shots were made up in just two holes.

Both Americans would make par at 18, forcing a three-hole aggregate playoff.

In the playoff, at #16, Bradley would answer Dufner's amazing tee-shot with one of his own. When Dufner's birdie putt slid past and Bradley made birdie, Dufner's seemingly insurmountable lead was gone. After a birdie/par finish on the final two playoff holes, 25-year old Keegan Bradley had won the Wannamaker Trophy and become only the third player in 100 years to win a major championship in his first try.

"It feels unbelievable," Bradley said. "It seems like a dream and I'm afraid I'm going to wake up here in the next five minutes and it's not going to be real."

Texas A&M to SEC

2011-08-13T17:20:00.003-05:00

UPDATE 8/14 4:40 PM CT
SEC has decided not to extend invite to Texas A&M for now, but stated that it could reconsider in the future.
Bye, bye, Aggies.

Texas A&M is the latest school to leave the Big 12 Conference after sources say that the school intends to join the Southeastern Conference as its 13th team, and leave behind the Big 12 (which will now be left with only 9 teams).

The Aggies, which decided to stay in the Big 12 earlier this summer, even as Colorado and Nebraska bolted the conference, reconsidered its decision to stay as details of the new controversial Longhorn Television Network came out. A&M, long the little brother to Texas, has voiced its frustrations over the 20 year TV contract with ESPN which will allow the network to not only broadcast UT Athletic events, but also a number of high school games, which would give them a huge edge in recruiting.

By bolting for the SEC, Texas A&M can tell its football recruits that the Aggies will be the only Texas school in the best football conference in the country.

And although A&M may lack the talent to compete in the powerful SEC in the short run, over time, with its outstanding alumni and fan base, as well as its fairly good academic reputation (compared to the rest of the SEC minus Vanderbilt), I think the Aggies could find success in their new conference.

USA Scores Draw Against Mexico

2011-08-11T12:12:00.004-05:00

In the debut for new head coach Jurgen Klinsmann, the United States national team showed some life in getting a result against Mexico last night at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. After falling behind 1-0 in the first half, second half substitutes Brek Shea and Robbie Rogers combined to equalize for the U.S. in a 1-1 game that was a step in the right direction for the men's national team.
Full highlights of the match are below.

MLB Trade Deadline Central

2011-07-31T12:59:00.002-05:00

UPDATED 2:59 PM CT
Astros Trade Pence to Philly
The Philadelphia Phillies' road to a championship got a lot easier, as they add all-star outfielder Hunter Pence from the Houston Astros in exchange for top Phillies' prospects Jeremy Cosart and Jonathan Singleton, as well as double-A pitcher Josh Zeid and a player to be named. The deal further continues the Astros long-term rebuilding while leaving them without a franchise player, while adds a power right-handed bat to the mostly-lefty Phillies' lineup.
Indians Acquire Ubaldo
The Cleveland Indians are definitely going for it this season, as they have acquired ace pitcher Ubaldo Jiminez from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for pitching prospects Drew Pomeranz, Joe Gardner and Alex White, and first baseman Matt McBride. Jiminez, last year's NL Cy Young runner-up will bolster Cleveland's rotation down the stretch as they try to win the AL Central.
Braves Get Bourn
The Atlanta Braves add speed-demon center fielder Michael Bourn from the Houston Astros in exchange for outfielder Jordan Schafer, and nominal prospect pitchers: lefthander Brett Oberholtzer, righthander Paul Clemens and righthander Juan Abreu.
Rangers Acquire Adams
The Texas Rangers bolster their bullpen, getting righty Mike Adams from the San Diego Padres in exchange for minor league pitchers Robbie Erlin and Joe Wieland.
Pirates Acquire Ludwick
Pittsburgh gets the right fielder from the San Diego Padres in exchange for a player to be named later.
Brewers Add Hairston
The Milwaukee Brewers strengthen their bench, acquiring utility player Jerry Hairston, Jr. from the Washington Nationals in exchange for minor league outfielder Erik Komatsu.
Tigers Acquire Fister
The Detroit Tigers bolstered their rotation Saturday, acquiring starter Doug Fister and righty reliever David Pauley from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for outfielder Casper Wells, infielder Francisco Martinez, left-hander Charlie Furbush and a player to be named later.
Dbacks Add Ziegler
Arizona acquires sidearm reliever Brad Ziegler in exchange for first baseman Brandon Allen and reliever Jordan Norberto
Red Sox Acquire Aviles
The Boston Red Sox have acquired infielder Mike Aviles from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for infielder Yamaico Navarro and minor league pitcher Kendal Volz.
Cardinals Acquire Furcal
St. Louis gets ex-All-Star shortstop from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for minor leaguer Alex Castellanos.

NFL Off-Season Frenzy

2011-07-29T17:34:00.001-05:00

Eagles Sign Asomugha
In a complete shocker, top free agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha has signed with the Philadelphia Eagles for five years, $60 million. This gives the Eagles now three Pro Bowl corners in Asomugha, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (who they acquired yesterday in the Kolb trade), and Asante Samuel.
Eagles Sign Jenkins
Philly also signs DE Cullen Jenkins away from the Super Bowl champion Packers for five years, $25 million.
Patriots Acquire Haynesworth, Ochocinco

In separate trades, the New England Patriots acquired two controversial, yet talented players in DT Albert Hayneworth and WR Chad Ochocinco in exchange for draft picks. Washington will get a 2013 fifth round selection. Cincinnati will get two draft picks, one this year and one more next year.
McNabb to Minnesota
The Vikings acquire QB Donovan McNabb from the Washington Redskins in exchange for a pair of sixth round picks.
Cardinals Acquire Kolb
Arizona finally has its QB (it hopes) for the future, as it gets Kevin Kolb from the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round pick. They also sign Kolb to a five year, $63 million dollar extension. To me, this seems like giving up a whole lot from Arizona's point of view for a guy, who although was a great college QB at the University of Houston, is unproven at the NFL level.
Texans Sign Joseph, Manning
In separate signings to boost the worst pass defense in NFL history, the Houston Texans have signed free agent cornerback Johnathan Joseph for five years, $49 million and safety Daniele Manning to a four year, $20 million contract. Although Houston fans were looking forward to potentially signing top corner Nnamdi Asomugha, I think these two signings are great for the depth of that mediocre secondary.

Reggie Bush to Miami

The #2 pick in the '06 draft is heading to South Beach, as the Saints trade Bush to the Dolphins in exchange for backup safety Jonathon Amaya. Bush also gets a 2 year, $10 million extension to join rookie Daniel Thomas in Miami's backfield.

Titans Sign Hasselbeck

Longtime Seahawk Matt Hasselbeck lands in Nashville as the veteran mentor and starter for Titans before rookie first-round pick Jake Locker is ready to take the reigns.

Seahawks Sign Tarvaris Jackson

Ex-Viking Jackson signs with the Seahawks for two years, $8 million. He will compete with Charlie Whitehurst for starting QB job in Seattle.

Chiefs Sign Breaston

The Kansas City Chiefs sign former-1000 yard WR Steve Breaston for five years. Breaston, who was with KC coach Todd Haley in Arizona during their Super Bowl season, will pair with Dwayne Bowe as deep threats for Matt Cassel.

Manchester United Pummels MLS All-Stars, Again

2011-07-28T11:29:00.002-05:00

Well, so much for revenge. Behind goals by Anderson, Ji-Sung Park, Dimitar Berbatov, and Danny Welbeck, Manchester United won the 2011 MLS All-Star Game in convincing fashion, beating the MLS All-Stars 4-0 at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ.

Hoping to avenge a 5-2 loss to the Red Devils last year in Houston, the MLS lineup included former Premier League stars David Beckham and Thierry Henry. But with limited practice time, the All-Stars simply couldn't effectively play in the 4-3-3 formation, and were dominated in the midfield by the class of ManU. Full highlights of the match are below.

Five Years

2011-07-27T10:35:00.002-05:00

Today my blog, The Sports Scene, turns five years old. Hard to imagine that what began in 2006 as a way of relieving boredom during the summertime has lasted this long and been so successful. From the great success this blog had on AOL (350 posts, 51000 visitors, #4 ranked blog), to the amount of viewers (nearly 6000) it has had since I moved to Blogger in March of 2009, I would like to thank my readers for coming back.

Just in the past year, successes have included my Super Bowl preview garnering 45 page views in just a day, while I have had consistent page views from Canada, the Netherlands, and South Korea. In addition, I once again joined Peter Berger on his online radio show and broke down a theoretical college football playoff.

Anyway, once again, thank you to everyone and continue to visit, comment, and email, and look for another great year in superb sports coverage.

NFL Lockout Over

2011-07-25T13:32:00.002-05:00

Hallelujah! We will have a complete regular season of NFL football this fall after the owners and players finally settled on a new collective bargaining agreement today in Washington, D.C.

The terms of the deal are a new 10 year contract (which the players have an option of opting out of after 7), where the owners will get approximately 53% of the $9 billion annual revenue, up from about 50% in the last deal. The new salary cap is $120 million, with the owners having a guarantee spend clause that will benefit the players. In addition, the veteran minimum salary increased and there will be fewer OTAs and contact practices during the preseason for the players. The owners did, however, get a rookie-wage scale passed, so rookies fresh out of college won't be getting paid like superstars before even taking a snap on the field (i.e. Sam Bradford $50 million guaranteed last year)

As far as the schedule is concerned, only one preseason game will be missed, the semi-useless Hall of Fame Game on August 7. Free agency will begin Friday night at 6 PM ET, while training camps will open this weekend for all teams.

Japan Wins Women's World Cup

2011-07-17T16:59:00.005-05:00

Who knew women's soccer could have so much drama?

As the favorites against the underdog Japanese in Frankfurt this afternoon, the United States came out and dominated the game in the first half, having many clear chances to go on top, but could not capitalize on them, allowing the team from the nation that has had so much devastation from the tsunami/earthquake/nuclear disaster earlier this year to settle in.

So into the second half they went when Alex Morgan, halftime substitute for the U.S., got behind the Japanese defense to put the USA up 1-0 in the 69th minute. And it looked like it would be enough, as attack after attack fell apart for the Japanese. However, confusion in the backline of the Americans would cost them as Rachel Buehler and Allie Kreiger failed to clear a ball inside their own penalty area, allowing Japan's Aya Miyama to equalize in the 80th.

In extra time, the United States, through an Alex Morgan-to-Abby Wambach (who else) header, regained the lead in the 104th minute. But it just wasn't meant to be for the Americans today.
Off a corner kick in the 117th minute, Japanese sensation Homare Sawa flicked in a golazo to send the final to a penalty kick shootout.

That's where the USA imploded, missing three straight to go down 2-1, before Saki Kumagai won it for Japan.

Full match highlights available on FIFA.com

So, heartbreak for the United States, but extreme congratulations goes out to a Japan side that deserved the victory, and played an outstanding match.

Darren Clarke Wins British Open

2011-07-17T11:36:00.003-05:00

What a run it's been for Northern Ireland golfers. Graeme McDowell at last year's U.S. Open, Rory McIlroy at this year's U.S. Open, and now 42-year old Darren Clarke makes it back to back major championships for his country, by winning his first career major today at the Open Championship at Royal St. Georges.

Clarke, whose previous highest finish in a major was second at the 1997 Open Championship, beat a pair of Americans, Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson, by three strokes, finishing at 6-under par after an even par final round after triumphantly battling the elements successfully with consistent putting and a little bit of luck (several shots into the wind bounced over bunkers).

"Pretty amazing right now," Clarke said. "It's been a dream since I've been a kid to win the Open, like any kid's dream is, and I'm able to do it, which just feels incredible."

Robinson Cano Wins Home Run Derby

2011-07-12T11:59:00.008-05:00

In one of the better Home Run Derby in recent years, New York Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano edged Boston Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez 12-11 in the final round to win the Derby, the first time a Yankee had won since 2002.

Cano, who was pitched to by his father, a former Houston Astro, hit 20 homeruns in the first two rounds, before putting up a record 12 in the finals to beat Gonzalez. Earlier in the competition, captains Prince Fielder and David Ortiz were eliminated in the second round, after each hitting only 9 in the first two rounds. First round eliminees were the Dodgers' Matt Kemp, Cardinals' Matt Holiday, the Brewers' Rickie Weeks, and the Blue Jays' Jose Bautista.

Meanwhile, tonight's starting lineups for the actual All-Star game have been posted.
American League

Curtis Granderson, Yankees, CF
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians, SS
Adrian Gonzalez, Red Sox, 1B
Jose Bautista, Blue Jays, RF
Josh Hamilton, Rangers, LF
Adrian Beltre, Rangers, 3B
David Ortiz, Red Sox, DH
Robinson Cano, Yankees, 2B
Alex Avila, Tigers, C

Jered Weaver, Angels, P

National League

Rickie Weeks, Brewers, 2B
Carlos Beltran, Mets, DH
Matt Kemp, Dodgers, CF
Prince Fielder, Brewers, 1B
Brian McCann, Braves, C
Lance Berkman, Cardinals, RF
Matt Holliday, Cardinals, LF
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies, SS
Scott Rolen, Reds, 3B

Roy Halladay, Phillies, P

It's really a shame so many all-stars are missing due to injury or just because they didn't feel like it (cough, Derek Jeter), but hopefully it's still a great game. In the end, I think the American League will use their superior bats to recapture home field advantage in the World Series for their side.

2011 MLB Home Run Derby

2011-07-11T11:57:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was the Futures Game at the All-Star festivities in Phoenix, Arizona. And tonight is the State Farm Home Run Derby.

This year's derby is different in that in addition to the individual nature of the competition, each league will be competing against each other to decide which side's charity receives $150,000.

The contestants this year are:
American League
DH David Ortiz, Boston Red Sox, captain
1B Adrian Gonzalez, Boston Red Sox
OF Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays
2B Robinson Cano, New York Yankees
National League
1B Prince Fielder, Milwaukee Brewers, captain
OF Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers
2B Rickie Weeks, Milwaukee Brewers
OF Matt Holliday, St. Louis Cardinals

Watch tonight on ESPN starting at 8 PM ET.

USA Women Fight Back, Stun Brazil

2011-07-10T14:20:00.005-05:00

In one of the most incredible games I have ever witnessed, the United States women overcame ridiculous odds to defeat Brazil today in Germany to advance to the Women's World Cup semifinals.

Up 1-0 thanks to an early Brazil own goal, the United States held the lead until the 65th minute when Brazilian sensation Marta got behind the U.S. defense. In an awful sequence of refereeing by the head official Jacqui Melksham, a penalty was awarded even though no clear foul was committed. Not only did the referee give the PK, but she also assesses a red card to Rachel Buehler. What happened next was even more ridiculous. U.S. keeper Hope Solo saves the penalty taken by Brazil's Christiane, but for some insane reason, the referee orders it retaken again. Marta would bury the retake, and the game went on to extra time, even though the Brazilians have the man advantage for the final 20 minutes of regulation.

In the extra time, Brazil's Marta showed off her brilliance with an amazing volley in the 92nd minute. It was all done for the United States, as a game marred by horrible refereeing and Brazilian time wasting was coming to an end. That is until the latest goal in Women's World Cup history occured (below).

Absolutely incredible. The goal sent the game to penalties, where the US would eventually prevail 5-3, and move on to face France Wednesday in the semifinals.

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-04T16:24:00.007-05:00

HAPPY JULY FOURTH everyone. Today, our country is 235 years old. I hope everyone will enjoy the fireworks tonight and stay cool.

Earlier today, Joey Chestnut successful defended his title to win his fifth Nathan's Hotdog Eating Contest, downing 62 hotdogs in 10 minutes.

Also, if you're in front of a TV tonight, check out an MLS Fourth of July double header with the New England Revolution @ Real Salt Lake at 7:30 PM CT and Seattle Sounders @ Los Angeles Galaxy at 9:30 PM CT. Both games are on ESPN2.

Novak Djokovic Wins Wimbledon

2011-07-03T11:17:00.004-05:00

Tennis, we have a new king. 24-year old Serb Novak Djokovic continued his magical ascent to the top of men's tennis by thoroughly outplaying defending champion Rafael Nadal today to win his first Wimbledon championship and third major in his career. Now with an incredible 48-1 record on the season, Djokovic will become the new #1 when the new tennis rankings come out tomorrow, becoming the first person not named Roger Federer or Nadal to hold that ranking in nearly seven years.

And well deserved. Djokovic took apart Nadal by winning a majority of the longer rallies that Rafa has been used to winning over the years. After breaking Nadal in the first set to win 6-4, Djokovic took control in the second set, breaking Nadal twice on the way to a 6-1 two set lead. Nadal rallied in the third, returning the favor 6-1 to draw close, but in the fourth set, after trading early breaks, Nadal finally faltered again, getting broken to go down 5-3 before Djokovic served for the title. In the end, it was a magnificent performance (with especially outstanding serving by Djokovic) to validate a new #1.

"It's really hard to describe this with any words except the best day of my life, most special day of my life," said Djokovic.