What to Make of Week 1

Monday 9/14/09 - Len

Week 1 of the NFL Season is in the books, and from what I can gather, New York is ready for some football!

The New York Giants began 2009 in typical New York style- controlling the football and executing on defense en route to a 23-17 win over the Redskins.

Many people who may not have watched the game must think it was a close one, but the scoreboard does this contest no justice. Jason Campbell connected with TE Chris Cooley for a TD late in the fourth quarter, and the other Redskins TD came on a field goal fake. Punter Hunter Smith walked into the endzone and a brazen play by Jim Zorn looked ingenius.

Eli Manning controlled the tempo of the game and the much-critiqued WR core looked good. Mario Manningham contributed a TD score and Domenik Hixon and Steve Smith came up big for Big Blue. Unfortunately, the Giants lost rookie Hakeem Nicks for at least two weeks with a sprained left foot.

The Giants defense looked great, swarming Jason Campbell and getting to Clinton Portis in the 2nd half. The game's highlight was Osi Umenyiora's Force Fumble, resulting in a Scoop and Score. It ended up being the difference maker, and the G-Men are 1-0 and primed for their Sunday night matchup in Arlington against the Dallas Cowboys.

The biggest story in New York on Monday wasn't the Giants game though, but instead the 24-7 romping the Jets handed the Houston Texans. Rex Ryan's coaching debut provided a defensive shut-out (the lone Texans touchdown happened on an INT return). David Harris, Bart Scott, and the rest of Gang Green looked good- real good. In my opinion the Defensive MVP on Sunday was cornerback Darrell Revis, who kept Pro-Bowl WR Andre Johnson in check.

On the offensive side of the football, Mark Sanchez looked like he was still donning the crimson and gold. He looked like a veteran out there, controlling the offense and executing up and down the field. His lone hiccup was the INT, but it was on a deflection.

The Jets also face a tough test in week 2, when they will be hosting Tom Brady and the New England Patriots at Giants Stadium.

The Yankees Just Don't Lose

Wednesday 9/9/09 - Len

The New York Yankees won their 90th game of the season last night, a walk-off win against the Tampa Bay Rays. The Red Sox are 80-58 and are 9 games out of the division lead. The Yanks are clearly in a class of their own.

Last night the Yankees hit their 13th walk-off of the season, this one coming off the bat of Nick Swisher. Although the past weeks have been focusing on Jeter and his record, the Yanks still win games. It seems like nothing can break them, and rightfully so.

I mean, if you looked on paper when this season started, they were the best team in baseball. Posada, Teixeira, Cano, Rodriguez, and Jeter in the infield, Damon, Melky, and Nady in the outfield. As we all know, Nady was soon replaced by Nick Swisher after he went down with an injury- and Swisher is having one of the best seasons of his career. The rotation was led by the highest-paid 1-2 punch in the game with CC Sabathia and AJ Burnett, followed immediately by Andy Pettitte and Joba Chamberlain. Wang was a bust but Mitre and others provided relief. hey put Hughes in the 'pen and he was great. And then of course, there was Mariano.

So should we really be surprised? ABSOLUTELY

This team also had numerous questions- was Alex Rodriguez going to recover both mentally and physically from his hip problem and steroid issues? Was AJ Burnett going to stay on the field? How was Joba going to adjust to the rotation? With Joba out of the bullpen, how strong is that bullpen going to be from innings 6 to 8? Can Andy Pettitte still pitch effectively? How long is Joe Girardi's leash? And finally, how was a team that had played in 13 consecutive postseasons before 2008 rebound the next season after not making it?

I think that most of these questions are answered. A-Rod is A-Rod, simply said (that is from May to September). AJ stayed on the field, and for the most part has had some good stuff. Joba adjusted fine, although I personally feel this new pitch-count thing with him is a little whacky. Phil Hughes has emerged to become the new Joba. Andy Pettitte is having a great year to ride off into the sunset with. There has been no angst between Girardi and the higher-ups. And finally, these Yankees haven't missed a beat. They are 90-50 with 22 games left to play. They are on pace for 105 wins, which we the best Yankee team since 1998- which won the World Series.

There are some negatives with being so high up for so long. For starters, you begin to put the breaks on. I guarantee you that in these final three weeks you will see Sergio Mitre or Chad Gaudin in there instead of CC. Why? Because CC has a reputation of flaming out in the playoffs. AJ Burnett may skip a start- and this will also be his first real crack at the postseason (in 2003 with FLA he was hurt, Yankee fans remember that one). Other than Alex Rodriguez, I see the starters consistently playing until the end- but you never know.

Personally, although the World Champs are a lock for October baseball, I feel that this World Series is the Yankees to lose. As of now, it looks like they will be matchup up against Detroit- that is unless the Rangers catch the Sox. If that happens, they will face the Rangers, and the Angels and Tigers will have to beat up on each other.

The bottom line is that they cannot be lax these last 22 games. If they play .500 baseball and get in with the best record at 101-61, that would be fantastic. If they then proceed to get kicked in the teeth by Detroit- a team I think is much overlooked in the AL- they finished just as well as their NY counterparts. Because when it comes down to it, if you're not hoisting the Commisioner's Trophy in November, you might as well have been golfing since October 1st.

Brady Quinn, Starting Quarterback

Wednesday 9/9/09 - Len

The biggest secret in the NFL this summer was in Cleveland. While Marvin Lewis and the Cincinnati Bengals exposed all in HBO's season of "Hard Knocks", their Ohio neighbors did everything in their power to keep what happened behind closed doors STAY behind closed doors.

As we all know, it's hard to keep a secret. Whether it be through "Twitter" or anonymous sources, we always find out what we want to hear.

Cleveland's new Head Coach Eric Mangini stressed secrecy in his new regime. No talking about meetings, no talking about injuries, AND DO NOT TALK ABOUT THE QUARTERBACK SITUATION. Jeez, I hope they were allowed to talk about football.

The QB situation in Cleveland wasn't much of a controversy, but more of a battle. Derek Anderson has started the last two seasons for Cleveland, outright winning the job in camp- and even went to a Pro Bowl in 2008. Brady Quinn, a former 1st round pick by the Cleveland Browns, sat on the bench under Head Coach Romeo Crennel. Now, with the Mangenius at the helm, Anderson is the one sitting.

An anonymous source (who else?) has said that Brady Quinn has been named the starting QB for the Browns. Apparently, Mangini notified the QBs Tuesday night and on Quinn took the 1st team reps today.

I give Mangini credit. 1) In my opinion, he made the right choice, and 2) He kept this secret for over 2 months. Nice job, Eric- but never doubt the omnipotent power of an anonymous source.

Matt Stafford Named the Starting QB

Monday 9/7/09 - Len

Jim Schwartz was handed an 0-16 football team. In my opinion, you can only go up from there (that is until the NFL eventually goes to an 18-game schedule).

Well, Schwartz made a right decision today when he announced that Matthew Stafford would be the team's starting quarterback to start the 2009 season.

Stafford, the #1 pick out of Georgia, is the star quarterback that Detroit has been craving for its entire existence.

The team is one of the oldest in the NFL and yet it is constantly rebuilding, with it's golden years being over 50 years ago. The Lions have won only one postseason game since it won the 1957 NFL Championship game, and although many don't think they will be competing for at least a few more years, starting Stafford over Culpepper was the right move.

The biggest question in my opinion is what the heck has happened to Daunte Culpepper? The guy was one of the best QBs in football and had a faster drop-off than a Mets team playing in September. Oh well, best of luck to Stafford- with that O-Line, you'll need it.

 

My AFC Predictions

Monday 9/7/09 - Len

I think it's time to make my AFC Predictions for the upcoming 2009 Season. I will put each division and rank each team, obviously with the 1st team winning the division- an asterisk will distinguish a playoff spot.

Here we go, starting with the AFC East:

AFC EAST:

*1) New England Patriots (12-4): With the team of the decade (well, the first part of the decade) having a clear chip on their shoulder after missing out on the playoffs in 2008, I see this team dominating the AFC and landing a top seed. Oh yeah, Tom Brady's back too.

2) Miami Dolphins (9-7): A slight drop-off from last season, but still respectable. I expect to see Chad Henne play alot in the last quarter of the season, especially when the division and wild card are well out of reach.

3) New York Jets (7-9): I want to say this team is an 8 to 9 win team, but I just can't. Rex Ryan will be a good NFL coach, but he needs some experience coaching the Belichick's of the world. The receiving game is suspect- expect Leon Washington to have over 500 receiving yards this year. As for Sanchez, don't expect a Matt Ryan-type of season. Instead, take a Joe Flacco-type with about 15 TDs and 12 INTs, and a little under 3,000 yards passing. This is a team built on defense, which is no surprise seeing who their coach is.

4) Buffalo Bills (6-10): They are slowly creeping their way out of the only city that loves them, but that is the least of their troubles. TO matched up with another star receiver in Lee Evans will create turmoil for Jauron, who will most likely be fired after the season's end.

AFC NORTH:

*1) Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5): Gotta give props to the Champs, who are fielding almost the identical team to 2008.

*2) Baltimore Ravens (10-6): Flacco's targets are quickly aging, and the other target on Baltimore will be on Flacco's chest. This guy has sophomore slump written all over him. Their defense lost Bart Scott and Justin Leonhard, but are still one of the NFL's best.

3) Cincinnati Bengals (6-10): Carson Palmer at full strength along with Chad Ochocinco and Laverneus Coles will result in a nice air-it-out offense for Marvin Lewis. But after week 8, the NFL will realize their run-game is non-existent and they will quickly falter. Marvin Lewis may be out by season's end. Lone bright spot will be USC's Rey Malaneuga, who will have an instant impact on the defense.

4) Cleveland Browns (4-12): Regardless whom this team puts behind center, they are just down-right awful. The only date circled on the Brown's calendar this year is the date of the draft.

AFC SOUTH:

*1) Indianapolis Colts (12-4): It didn't matter who replaced Tony Dungy, this is Peyton's team and he will carry them. Anthony Gonzalez will have a break-out season at the wideout position in 2009, especially with the absence of Marvin Harrison.

*2) Tennessee Titans (10-6): Not quite 13 wins, but enough to get into the post-season. Their two-back system with Chris Johnson and LenDale White was one of the best in the NFL in 2008, and I expect it to be the same this year. Look out for rookie WR Kenny Britt out of Rutgers to have an immediate impact on a team that was desperate for a big man.

3) Houston Texans (8-8): I'm dying for the Texans to be good- trust me. But, I need to see a complete year out of Matt Schaub to fully judge the future of this team. What I will say is that their defense will be very good, and Schaub has an immediate target in Andre Johnson. The lone question remains with Schaub.

4) Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11): Jack Del Rio, the most dapper coach in the NFL, will be looking for a new team to buy him some suits after 2009. They are one of the teams who are struggling with selling tickets in a not-so-typical football city. Some of their games are blacked-out for 2009, and I predict a west coast trip in their future- but it's a one-way ticket. Los Angeles wants a team, and Jacksonville has to move- a match made in football heaven.

AFC WEST:

*1) San Diego Chargers (10-6): They pretty much win this division by default. Regardless of that, they are a very talented team and many think that since Phillip Rivers took San Diego to the bank this off-season, he should take them to a Super Bowl. I don't think so, but they will have a chance to do so. Also, let's hope this Merriman-Tequila thing is nipped in the bud, because they don't need him suspended- something the Commish doesn't hesitate to do in situations like this.

2) Denver Broncos (5-11): They went from a playoff threat to a joke within a few months. Their franchise QB bolted for Chicago, and although they got a few first rounders in return, it's going to be painful to watch. Their defense is horrendous, and their star WR hates playing there. Great job, Josh McDaniels. Where have you gone, Mike Shannahan?

3) Kansas City Chiefs (4-12): Matt Cassel and Dwayne Bowe can't do it all. Their defense stinks and their running game is non-existent. Just another AFC West doormat.

4) Oakland Raiders (2-14): I'm giving the Raiders the worst record in the NFL for two reasons: 1) Because they are the worst team in the NFL, and 2) I just want to see what Al Davis will do with the Number 1 overall pick. The NFL has to get involved and save this team- which is one of the proudest in the history of the AFC and has clearly become the black hole of the NFL - no pun intended.

2009 AFC PLAYOFFS

1) New England (East- 12-4) --BYE

2) Indianapolis Colts (South- 12-4) --BYE

3) Pittsburgh Steelers (North- 11-5) 

4) San Diego Chargers (West- 10-6)

5) Baltimore Ravens (North- 10-6)

6) Tennessee Titans (South- 10-6)

WILD CARD PLAYOFFS:

PIT vs. TEN -- The LenDale White Towel Stomp Story begins once again, but the Champs prevail in Pittsburgh in a rout.

SD vs. BAL -- San Diego snuck away with a first round win in 2008 against Indianapolis, but won't be as lucky in 2009. Baltimore comes up with the W in the Golden State.

DIVISIONAL PLAYOFFS:

NE vs. BAL -- New England is a dangerous team week to week, but give Bill Belichick two weeks to prepare and the team is unstoppable. New England in typical New England fashion- a chess match where one bad move by Baltimore results in a two touchdown victory.

IND vs. PIT -- This game would be a great AFC Championship Game, but we'll settle for an amazing AFC Divisional Game. All week highlights will stream of the 2005 Playoffs where the Colts blew the game to the Cinderella Steelers en route to Pittsburgh's 5th Title. This time though, Pittsburgh will win solely because they are the better team.

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP:

NE vs. PIT -- In the 50th Anniversary of the AFC, what better match-up can you have? Granted, the Steelers DID start off in the NFL back in the days of leather helmets, but since the expansion they have emerged as the class of the American Football Conference. The Patriots have been to 6 Super Bowls in 50 years, winning 3 in their illustrious history. These two teams have 5 Super Bowls between them in the decade, so there really isn't a better game that could be played. Tom Brady, fresh off a 2008 where he watched the Pats play while he nursed his bum leg, will lead the Patriots to the big game.

AFC CHAMPION: New England Patriots

Well there's my AFC prediction, hope you enjoy. The NFC Prediction will be up either tonight or tomorrow...

 

 

 

My NFC Predictions

Monday 9/7/09 - Len

Here are the NFC Predictions: 1-4 Distinguish their finish in their respected divisions, and an asterisk distinguishes a playoff spot.

NFC EAST:

*1) New York Giants (12-4): Their receiver core is still suspect, but I think that they have players who can contribute. I heard a great quote about the Giants: "They are as fancy as white bread." This says it all- they control the clock, utilize the run game, and throw in the occasional bomb. They gain the top seed for the 2nd consecutive season. I expect a breakout season out of Amhad Bradshaw, who moved up to second on the Depth Chart after the departure of Derrick Ward.

*2) Philadelphia Eagles (10-6): The signing of Michael Vick will not have as big an impact as their top two draft picks in 2009- Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy. Maclin will prove to be a threat on the opposite side of DeSean Jackson, and McCoy is a clone of Brian Westbrook. The Eagles can make some noise this year. On the defensive side, they will be playing with a heavy heart after the loss of DC Jim Johnson, and the loss of Brian Dawkins doesn't help this aging team either.

3) Dallas Cowboys (8-8): They are not as good as they seem on paper. I think they are a distant 3rd in the NFC East and a middle-of-the-pack team. The billion-dollar stadium will cause more controversy, just like Jerry Jones likes. Wade Phillips will be looking for another job soon enough.

4) Washington Redskins (8-8): This team doesn't have a quarterback, and Clinton Portis is good- until he gets hit. As soon as Albert Haynesworth hobbles off the field, they will call for Jim Zorn's head.

NFC NORTH:

*1) Chicago Bears (10-6): The NFC North has always been known as the bruiser division of the NFC- Now, it's filled with potent offenses. Of the three division contenders, Chicago has the best chance because they made the biggest splash of the off-season by stealing Cutler away from Denver. Many Favre lovers and AP worshippers will disagree with me, but I think this Chicago team is headed for the playoffs- and they save Lovie Smith's job.

2) Green Bay Packers (9-7): Aaron Rodgers continue to improve, and the highlight of his season comes when the Packers take both games against the Vikings. By beating Brett Favre, he has finally gained the respect of the Packer Faithful. Unfortunately, he doesn't get to play January football. Expect a big season out of Ryan Grant though, who will be back at full strength. Also, Don Capers will transition this team into a full-fledged 3-4, and regardless of a Pro Bowl season out of Aaron Kampman, they will have some growing pains.

3) Minnesota Vikings (8-8): Adrian Peterson will run for about 1,800 yards and 20+ touchdowns, but Brett Favre will throw 20 INTs and their defense will be on the field 40 minutes a game. They will wear out and be ousted from playoff contention, and Josh Childress will be out of a job.

4) Detroit Lions (3-13): Matt Stafford is a hero, for he has tripled the Lions win total from 2008. He will be sacked over 60 times though, but he and Calvin Johnson will show some signs of greatness. Dear Detroit, with that #2 overall pick, go draft the best offensive lineman in the country.

NFC SOUTH:

*1) Atlanta Falcons (11-5): This team really scares me offensively. How do you prevent Matt Ryan from getting into a sophomore slump? Go get him Tony Gonzalez. Ryan and Turner will be one of the best backfields in the NFL, but their defense will stink. Keith Brooking, Michael Boley, and Rocky Bernard bolted for the East, but they win the division anyway. They win the division in a tie-break with Carolina.

*2) Carolina Panthers (11-5): Jake Delhomme should not throw the football more than 20 times a game. With DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart in the backfield, he should be fine. Also, of those 20 or so attempts, throw it at least 12 times to Steve Smith. With that and a solid defense led by Julius Peppers, they will be in the playoffs once again.

3) New Orleans Saints (9-7): Drew Brees can throw for 5,000 yards, but with a spotty defense he will always be on the field for less than half the time. Also, I finally expect an above average year out of Reggie Bush, who is complimented nicely with Pierre Thomas. If Reggie can stay on the field, he'll be a joy to watch.

4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12): Their defense is aging, and the release of Derrick Brooks and Warrick Dunn leave this team in a clear rebuilding stage. They fired their offensive coordinator, and their rookie coach Raheem Morris hasn't picked a quarterback yet. My bet is that Byron Leftwich takes the snaps to start, followed by Josh Freeman.

NFC WEST:

1) Seattle Seahawks (9-7): Jim Mora Jr. is replacing legendary coach Mike Holmgren in Seattle, and he has inherited a healthy Matt Hasselback. Julius Jones and Edgerrin James should provide an interesting two-back tandem as well. It doesn't take much to win this division, but I feel that an average season by the Seahawks followed by a Super slide from our next team will result in January football in Seattle.

2) Arizona Cardinals (8-8): Not much of a slide (only a one game difference), but it's enough to keep them out of the playoffs. Facing the NFC North this year, they will be headed to Chicago and Green Bay. They also face the Giants on the east coast and Indianapolis in the drum. See, winning the division DOES have it's disadvantages.

3) San Francisco 49ers (7-9): This team is right on the brink of medocrity and average. Mike Singletary still has a lot of work to do with this team. Luckily for this once-great franchise, he's the right guy to whip them into shape.

4) St. Louis Rams (3-13): Steve Spagnuolo bolted New York and took the big job out in St. Louis. Marc Bulger is slowly showing us how bad he really is- even though there isn't much around him to do him justice. Stephen Jackson is great, but gets hit about 1,000 times a game. Their defense will be better thanks to Spags, but it's only a 1-win increase and a third straight year with a top 5 draft pick.

NFC PLAYOFF PICTURE

1) New York Giants (East- 12-4) --BYE

2) Atlanta Falcons (South- 11-5) --BYE

3) Chicago Bears (North- 10-6)

4) Seattle Seahawks (West- 9-7)

5) Carolina Panthers (South- 11-5)

6) Philadelphia Eagles (East- 10-6)

NFC WILD CARD PLAYOFFS

CHI vs. PHI- The snow will most likely be falling in the Windy City, and so will the Eagles. With the absence of Brian Dawkins (FA to Denver) and Lito Sheppard (traded to NYJ), Jay Cutler will pick the defense apart.

SEA vs. CAR- Qwest Field is one of the best homefields in the NFL. When they raise the 12th Man flag, the stadium is rocking and the Seahawks are pumped. Although they will be ready to play, the Panthers are the much better team and win in a romp.

NFC DIVISIONAL PLAYOFFS

NYG vs. CAR- This is a great match-up, and many people feel it is evenly matched. I feel, much like the rest of the NFL, that the Giants have the best front-four in the NFL, and their constant rotation of players make them look fast even in the fourth quarter. They stop Williams and Stewart, and advance to the NFC Championship.

ATL vs. CHI- A wise man once said that Defense Wins Championships. If Defense indeed wins you championships, then lack of defense loses you championships (or at least doesn't get you to the championship game). Like I mentioned earlier, defense will be Atlanta's Achilles Heel, and the days of their offense carrying them comes to an end.

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

NYG vs. CHI- This is going to be a great game. Jay Cutler against the NFC's best Defense. Brandon Jacobs, the hardest hitting RB in football, will go up against one of the hardest hitting defenses in the NFL. The Giants win because of their advantage on the defensive line- once again. They will be refreshed and in the fourth quarter they will be going up against an offensive line that has played four quarters- when they only played two. Giants win in a great game.

NFC CHAMPION: New York Giants

There's my prediction- Super Bowl XIV will be identical to XLII--> New York Giants vs. New England Patriots.

Now all we have to do is play the games.

Is #2 The Greatest Yankee Ever?

Monday 9/7/09 - Len

In over 100 years of history, many of the greatest players in baseball history have donned the pinstripes. Lets go through a short list:

Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Mantle, Berra, Jackson, .....Jeter?

When his career ends, Derek Jeter will go down as the Greatest Yankee of All-Time. It amazes me that I've been watching the Greatest Yankee ever, just because there have been so many in the past.

This conversation comes up now because Derek Jeter is on his way to being the All-Time Hits Leader in Yankee History. Currently Lou Gehig hold the record, knocking 2,721 hits in his illustrious career with the Yankees. Jeter is currently at 2,718 hits, and should be the record-holder by the end of the week.

In 2009, Derek Jeter also became the All-Time Hits Leader for the shortstop position, passing Hall of Famer Luis Aparicio.

Derek Jeter came up through the Yankee system and became an every day player for the Yanks in 1996. In his Yankee career, besides compiling those 2,718 hits, Jeter has won four World Series titles and won six pennants. His career batting average is .317. He's won three Gold Gloves and is a virtual mainstay at the shortstop position for the American League All-Star team, getting elected 10 times.

Many Yankees throughout the years have had nicknames that went with their persona. Some throughout the years have been "The Great Bambino", "The Iron Man", "Joltin' Joe", "Mr. October", and "Yogi." Jeter's nicknames are best known to be "The Captain", "Captain Clutch", or "Mr. November".

Now he can also be called "The Greatest".

 

Buehler....Buehler

Sunday 9/6/09 - Len

I just read a fascinating story on ESPN about the newest kickoff specialist for the Dallas Cowboys, 5th Round Pick David Buehler.

David Buehler may just be a kicker on the field, but I bet you he's one of the most athletic players on it when he steps between the lines. 

The 5th rounder from USC shocked his Dallas teammates when he beat Safety DeAngelo Smith in a 50-yard dash. According to the LA Times, his two unoffical times in the 40-yard dash were as follows: 4.56 and 4.63. Those can be compared to DBs and WRs! Not to bad for a guy who makes a living using his legs (or at least one of them).

He's also quite the strongman- in that same published report in the LA Times, it was discovered that Pete Carroll was a witness to his athleticism as well and often used him as a safety or fullback in practice. At the combine, Buehler bench-pressed 225 twenty-five times, which would have ranked 1st among corners, 2nd among wideouts, 3rd among safties, 4th among TEs, 6th among tailbacks, and 8th among linebackers!

To put it bluntly, when your facing Dallas and all you have between you and six points is the kicker- watch your head.

David Tyree Cut by Big Blue

Saturday 9/5/09 - Len

David Tyree has been cut today by the New York Giants.

The Giants must cut their roster down to 53 players by 6PM Saturday night, and unfortunately the Super Bowl hero's time in New York has come to an end.

For those of you who may not remember, it was David Tyree's miraculous catch in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLII that set up the winning touchdown by Plaxico Burress. It is difficult to put the catch into words, but with safety Rodney Harrison in his face and swatting at the ball, Tyree managed to trap the ball between his hands and his helmet and come down with the grab. On the other side of the reception was Eli Manning, who avoided about four possible sack opportunities and came up throwing to Tyree- who had caught a TD earlier in the game.

To put it short, the Eli-to-Tyree Connection may be the greatest catch in Super Bowl History.

Tyree, a former 6th round Draft pick in 2003, had a feeling this day was coming. Ever since that miraculous catch on that February night in Arizona, Tyree had not made a single reception.

His injured knee has kept him off the football field, and with that injured knee still suspect- and with the Giants drafting two WR in the 2009 Draft- Tyree knew his days were numbered.

David, you will always be remembered in Giants History, and on behalf of Giants fans, I wish you the best of luck in your NFL Career.

Greg Paulus isn't that Bad

Saturday 9/5/09 - Len

Greg Paulus made his College Football Debut today when his Syracuse Orangemen opened up their 2009 campaign against the Big 10's Minnesota Golden Gophers.

The Orangemen lost, but their QB looked good. I was the first to criticize Syracuse University on this move. I felt that the team would achieve the most success in the long run if they either played someone who has been in theri system, or throw a true freshmen in the fire- much like what the University of Michigan and USC are doing. Greg Paulus will only be in Navy and Orange for the 2009 season. Then, his eligibility is up and his college career is over.

Paulus, who is best known for his days as a Duke University point guard, had one more year of eligibility left in his college career. The 6'1 guard decided to trade in his sneakers and shorts for some cleats and pads, and his hometown Orangemen were the ones who took him in.

Paulus was a former top recruit during his high school football days at the Christian Brothers Academy (which is in Syracuse, NY) and even turned down Syracuse when it came to playing right out of high school. Paulus chose Cameron and Coach K, and in the four years he was at Duke he had much success- playing in four NCAA Tournaments. Those four years for Syracuse were not so kind. In the four years Paulus was playing for the Dukies, the Orangemen went on to win 10 games- total.

In the 23-20 overtime loss to the Gophers, Paulus went 19/31 with 167 passing yards. In the first quarter, he connected with a wide-open Mike Williams for a 29-yard TD pass- the first of his college career. It was in overtime where he made his lone mistake. On a third down scramble, Paulus threw the ball into the end zone, and the ball landed not in the hands of an Orangemen but instead in the hands of a Golden Gopher. The loss of possession resulted in a 35-yard GW field goal, and Syracuse was handed the defeat.

Regardless of the result, and the bone-head INT by Paulus, I have to say I was impressed by his performance. He is clearly an athlete, and he seems to be having a great time out there. He got rocked a couple of times, so I guess he can still take a hit (it's alot harder than taking a charge). He is a system quarterback who is simply doing what he is told, but in saying that I also liked the fact that he does control the offensive tempo- and even called a few audibles. He doesn't play on the most talented team in the world, so they will lose games because of that- but I can see this team winning 4-5 games in 2009.

 

Down Goes Bradford!

Saturday 9/5/09 - Len

This was supposed to be a competitive game, not catastrophic.

All signs pointed to a 20+ point win tonight, with Sam Bradford throwing about a handful of touchdowns. It's not knock against Bringham Young University, who is ranked 20th in the Nation. It is instead a compliment to Sam Bradford and the Oklahoma Sooners.

Bradford threw over 50 TDs in 2008 and the Sooners scored over 700 points- The Sooners didn't win the title game, but Bradford came away with the Heisman.

All ideas of a potential blow-out game were completely thrown away when Oklahoma's Golden Boy went down with a sprained shoulder. Before he went down with the injury, he was 10/14 for 96 yards and a TD.

Landry Jones started the 2nd Half at QB for the Sooners. The long-term status of Sam Bradford's shoulder is unknown.

Here is why the BCS needs to be changed. In 2008, Tom Brady went down in game one and the Pats still went 11-5 and fought for a playoff spot. Bradford goes down, and even if they win tonight, if he's out long-term and they lose 1 or 2 games during that stretch, they're done in the Big XII. That of course means no BCS Bowl Games.

 

 

The Big East Stinks

Saturday 9/5/09 - Len

To put it the most brief I can, The Big East STINKS in Football. Here is the AP Top 25 Poll for the Season's first week:

1) Florida (SEC)

2) Texas (Big XII)

3) Oklahoma (Big XII)

4) USC (Pac 10)

5) Alabama (SEC)

6) Ohio St. (Big 10)

7) Virginia Tech (ACC)

8) Ole Miss (SEC)

9) Oklahoma State (Big XII)

10) Penn State (Big 10)

11) LSU (SEC)

12) Cal (Pac 10)

13) Georgia (SEC)

14) Boise St. (WAC)

15) Ga. Tech (ACC)

16) Oregon (Pac 10)

17) TCU (Mountain West)

18) Florida State (ACC)

19) Utah (Mountain West)

20) Brigham Young (Mountain West)

21) North Carolina (ACC)

22) Iowa (Big 10)

23) Notre Dame (Independent)

24) Nebraska (Big 12)

25) Kansas (Big 12)

By Conference:

SEC- 5, Big XII- 5, Big 10- 3, ACC- 4, Pac 10- 3, Mountain West- 3, Independent 1, WAC- 1

BIG EAST- 0

So far in this early season, only three Big East teams have player. West Virginia and Pittsburgh came up victorious, while Syracuse fell short.

The season is still young, so there is a chance that you can see teams like Louisville, Rutgers, West Virginia, Southern Florida, UConn, and Pittsburgh possibly crack the Top 25. This will especially be the case when conference like the SEC and Big XII start beating up on each other (each has 5 representatives in the Top 25).

Regardless of this, it is still disappointing to see no Big East representatives in the Top 25. But don't worry, once the hardwood is polished, I guarantee you that will change.

Bradford has a Sprained Shoulder

Saturday 9/5/09 - Len

The first upset of the 2009 season took place tonight in Arlington, Texas.

In the brand new $1.1 Billion Cowboys Stadium, one of the NCAA's million dollar quarterbacks went down.

Sam Bradford, the 2008 Heisman Trophy winner, went down in the first half with what has been diagnosed as a shoulder sprain. His arm was in a sling in the 2nd half, with ice strapped to his shoulder.

Fortunately, it has been said that this type of injury is the "day-to-day" variety, and we will see Bradford again in 2009.

Unfortunately, the #3 Oklahoma Sooners fell to the #20 BYU Cougars by a score of 14-13. A team that scored over 700 points in 2008 was held to one TD.

With the loss, Oklahoma's dreams of a BCS Title seem all but dead. Playing in a conference with teams such as Texas and in-state rival Oklahoma State, they will definitely have to run the table for a chance to compete for the BCS Title.

For Bringham Young (the alma mater of Giants LB Bryan Kehl), the win definitely puts them in the National Spotlight and gives their conference further recognition. The Mountain West has three teams in the Top 25- BYU, TCU, and Utah.

The anti-BCS debaters have used divisions such as the Mountain West and the WAC as their major line of defense for the installation of a Playoff System in College Football.

Wins and losses aside, let's hope that Sam Bradford has a nice and speedy recovery so he can defend his 2008 Big XII Title and Heisman Trophy Season.

David Ditches the Dome

Thursday 9/3/09 - Len

Pardon my alliteration in the title, but it was needed.

I'm not sure what it took for David Wright to ditch the Rawlings S100 Batting Helmet, but this afternoon he reverted back to the old-style helmet. 

Wright cited the awkward feel and fit more than he did the awkward look for the primary reason for ditching the dome, but he said he will consider wearing it again- just not this season. 

David Wright was the butt of a lot of jokes this week when he returned from the disabled list sporting the new batting helmet. It didn't help that in his second game back, Wednesday night, he came into the box with the double-flapped style. Therefore, his already gigantic helmet even looked more gigantic.

Now that Major League Baseball has truly gotten a good look at the S100, both physically (each team was given 6 to sample with) and aesthetically (on David Wright), the only question that remains is its future in baseball. Like I mentioned in a previous article, in 2010 the Rawlings helmet will be mandatory on all Minor League levels- so in short my prediction is that you may not see much of it in 2010, but as the years pass the S100 will infiltrate its way into MLB Clubhouses.

What to Make of the Plane in Denver

Thursday 9/3/09 - Len

When I woke up this morning, my Twitter feed exploded with reports that there was a Giants plane parked at Jeffco Airport in Denver.

The Giants, who are Super Bowl contenders but still have questions at the receiver position, were not in the Brandon Marshall sweepstakes. Yesterday, it was assumed that the New York Jets were the lone team interested in the disgruntled, unhappy, and talented wide receiver.

The reports that Marshall was headed to Big Blue were obviously refuted by the Front Office, saying that they were standing pat with what they had. Although Marshall's attitude is terrible, and it would be a complete surprise if the Giants would take on another headcase after dealing with Plaxico Burress, but you help to wonder what it could be like with Brandon Marshall in that system.

I'll give the Giants the benefit of the double on this one, and I'll say that it was just a coincidence that the plane was there (maybe they needed gas). But you can't help but wonder if Marshall will be in New York before this season ends- Either as a Giant or a Jet.

The Broncos already said that they want ILB David Harris and a high draft pick from the Jets for the rights to Marshall. The Giants will most likely have to give up DE Mathias Kiwanuka and/or a WR with a mid-level draft pick. My guess is that the receiver who will get dealt will be Sinorice Moss, who has been nothing but a disappointment since the Giants drafted him in the 2nd round four years ago.

Both Kiwanuka and Moss will most likely be gone after their contracts expire when the season ends. Kiwanuka will bolt for a starting job, which he would have on alot of teams in the NFL, it just so happens he's on the team with the best front four in football. Moss may get released this Saturday when the rosters need to be shrunk to 53, regardless of his good performance in the preseason finale in New England. The bottom line is that he is a talented player, he just can't stay healthy.

So Brandon, what will it be? Big Blue or Gang Green?

David Wright's Helmet Looks Ridiculous, But Works

Wednesday 9/2/09 - Len

Last night, the Mets lost 8-3 to the Colorado Rockies. But that wasn't the story...

Mike Pelfrey pitched like crap. But that wasn't the story....

Josh Thole (which is actually pronounced as Thol-EE) put on the blue and orange for the first time. But that wasn't the story....

The Mets loss put the Rockies atop the NL Wild Card, tied with the SF Giants. But that wasn't the story....(maybe in Denver it was)

David Wright made his much anticipated debut back from his first DL stint of his career. But that wasn't the story....

The most anticipated debut in Major League Baseball last night was that of the S100- the newest helmet prototype made by Rawlings. The S100 has been tested to withstand baseballs at up to 100 mph. The traditional helmets (worn by everyone else in baseball), have mixed results when the ball travels at over 70 mph.

Six S100s have been given to each team in baseball, giving them the opportunity to try it out.

Like I mentioned, David Wright, who has just come off the Disabled List after taking a 94 mph fastball off the head, is the poster-child for the Rawlings helmet.

With David Wright being an avid supporter of the S100, some players are against it and refuse to wear it, including teammate and Mets RF Jeff Francoeur.

The problem with it is not protection, which it does perfectly- but aesthetics. The thing is about three times the size of a regular helmet. From the looks of it, it has to weigh about 10 pounds. I assumed that the main focal points of the cushioning would be around the temple and front of ahead. Once again, I was wrong with my assumption. The thing is cushioned all over- I'm pretty sure David Wright can go suit up for the Jets with that thing.

Regardless of the jokes (I made my fair share of jokes last night while watching the game), the thing is definitely safer. Next year the S100 is going to be mandatory in the Minors, so it's just a matter of time before it infiltrates the Majors permanently.

What's your thoughts on the helmet?

Denver Wants David Harris

Wednesday 9/2/09 - Len

According to numerous reports, the only way Brandon Marshall will join Gang Green is if David Harris is headed to Denver.

Harris, the 3rd year player out of Michigan, has proven to be a very good inside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. The question is if the Jets don't pull the trigger, will another team welcome Marshall to their offense? You would think that the market would be steaming for him, but his attitude has really dropped his stock dramatically.

As a football fan, it makes sense for Marshall to go to the Jets. He's the perfect target for a rookie Quarterback, and the Jets have that in Mark Sanchez. What can be a problem is his attitude and that hindering the development of Sanchez.

Personally, I don't want this deal to get through. For the first time in a while, it seems the Jets have truly cut the fat and filled their team with hard workers who have one common goal- winning. They are making all the right moves, first by hiring Rex Ryan, then by stealing away Bart Scott and Brian Leonhard, and then by drafting Sanchez. Yout don't one bad deal to spoil the entire crop.

My message to Mike Tannenbaum and Woody Johnson- just say no. Ride the wave with Stuckey, Clowney, Cotchery, Keller, and Miller. At 8-8, you can get a pick in the early to mid-teens and grab yourself the 2nd or 3rd best receiver in the draft (Jeremy Maclin went 17 overall to the Eagles). Keep what you know you have- a hard-working, team-first, talking-done-on-the-field type of player in David Harris.

My Take on Umenyiora

Tuesday 9/1/09 - Len

As we all know, Osi Umenyiora went AWOL in a practice this week for the New York Giants.

The Giants, who conclude their preseason schedule this Thursday when they head up to Foxboro, were in no need of a distraction right now. Apparently the Pro Bowl Defensive End (who I am only calling Osi now, no more Umenyiora because it's too long and too hard to spell) had a little disagreement with DC Bill Sheridan and DL Coach Mike Waurfel so he bailed on practice. He apparently stormed out in a fit of rage, and many people were worried of a little rift between the new DC and the Veteran Pro Bowler....

....BUT THERE ISN'T!

Here is what I love about the Giants- my bias aside, I feel they are one of the best-run organizations in Sports. The Maras have own them for their entire existence, and they are notorious for building from within (see Jerry Reese). This could have blown up to epic proportions, resulting in unnecessary questions after practice- constantly re-hashing the story and bringing back uncomfortable memories....

...BUT THERE WON'T BE!

The Giants fined him, and welcomed back to practice with open arms. He returned and apologized to his coaches, his teammates, and the media. During his post-practice interview at his locker, Justin Tuck interrupted the reporters and said, "Hey Osi, were you hear yesterday?" Osi laughed, Tuck laughed and ran off, and the media got a kick out of it. 

I personally feel that Osi has a chip on his shoulder- the guy missed all of 2008 and watched the team STILL LEAD THE NFL IN SACKS. In a team standpoint, it must be great...But I bet you he thinks of what could have been WITH him in the rotation. Maybe they could have hoisted the Lombardi Trophy for the 2nd consecutive season (or at least beat Philadelphia).

Regardless, Osi is a few thousand dollars poorer and that much more hungrier. The Road to Number 4 Begins Now...

Josh Thole Promoted

Monday 8/31/09 - Len

The New York Mets have announced that they are calling up Double-A catcher Josh Thole to the big club. He will be in uniform when the Mets play the Rockies tomorrow in Colorado and he will wear uniform number 30.

Thole, a catcher, hit .328 this year for the Binghamton Mets and boasted a .395 OBP. His power is still suspect, as is his defense, but this is the perfect opportunity for him showcase his stuff.

The Mets have clearly gone through the season from hell, but with a positive showing by these young guys can really boost morale for the organization. The media has been telling us all season that this team ranks at the bottom of baseball in regards to their Farm System, so seeing guys like Thole thrive can mean alot.

In other Mets news, Carlos Beltran has been cleared to begin his rehab assignment and is scheduled to play in Brooklyn on Wednesday, according to numerous reports.

Also, Mets lefties Johan Santana and Oliver Perez are slated to go under the knife tomorrow- Johan going for season-ending shoulder surgery and Perez going for season-ending knee surgery.

 

Tedy Bruschi Retires after 13 Seasons

Monday 8/31/09 - Len

After 13 years of NFL Servitude, Tedy Bruschi has retired from the game of football.

Playing all 13 seasons in New England, Bruschi compiled over 1,000 tackles and three Super Bowl Rings in his illustrious career. The three rings were in four years, when the Patriots won Super Bowls XXXVI, XXXVIII, and XXXIX.

He also helped lead the Patriots to Super Bowls XXXI and XLII, losing to the Green Bay Packers and New York Giants, respectively.

Bruschi is in the history books with an odd statistic- he is the only man in NFL History to return four consecutive interceptions for touchdowns (he has 12 career INTs).

Bruschi, who played the 2005 season after suffering a stroke and partial paralysis just months earlier, was called a "Perfect Player" by his former Head Coach Bill Belichick.