Super Bowl XLIX is finally here! The leagues best teams throughout most of the season are playing one another for the most prestigious award in sports. Here is my prediction.
(A1) New England Patriots vs (N1) Seattle Seahawks: This is some matchup we got here. We have arguably the leagues best two coaches in New England's Bill Belichick and Seattle's Pete Carroll. Two great quarterbacks in Seattle's Russell Wilson and New England's Tom Brady. Two outstanding cornerbacks in Seattle's Richard Sherman and New England's Darrelle Revis. The fascinating matchup we have is New England's offense versus Seattle's defense with tight end Rob Gronkowski and safety Kam Chancellor. Most folks will be talking about Deflategate and the comments Marshawn Lynch said during the week and whether Lynch should be fined for what he was wearing or not. The winner of the this game won't surprise me at all. I'd be shocked if this was a blowout like last year. In conclusion, I like Seattle to win a very close game and coincidently the score I'm predicting are the numbers I have in a Super Bowl pool.
Prediction: Seattle 28, New England 24.
Super Bowl MVP: Marshawn Lynch.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Monday, January 26, 2015
2014-15 NHL Midseason Awards
Here are my mid-season awards for the 2014-15 NHL season.
Hart Trophy: Pekka Rinne, Nashville Predators: Rinne has been unbelievable this season before injuring his knee. Rinne has a record of 29-6-2 with a goals against average of 1.96 and a save percentage of .931. Rinne is a huge reason why Nashville has been having an outstanding season.
Runner up: Ryan Getzlaf, Anaheim Ducks.
Vezina Trophy: Rinne. See above.
Runner up: Carey Price, Montreal Canadiens.
Norris Trophy: Mark Giordano, Calgary Flames: Giordano has been stellar this season for a surprising Calgary team. Giordano has 11 goals and 29 assists which totals to 40 points for a defenseman. Giordano should be able to keep this pace up.
Runner up: Shea Weber, Nashville Predators.
Selke Trophy: Jonathan Toews, Chicago Blackhawks: Toews is an outstanding two-way player that is getting the job done on both sides this season. Toews has 14 goals and 28 assists this season. Expect Toews to continue his great season on what is arguably the best team in the league in Chicago.
Runner up: Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings.
Calder Trophy: Aaron Ekblad, Florida Panthers: Ekblad has been great for Florida this season. Ekblad has 6 goals and 19 assists for a rookie defenseman. Expect the Calder Trophy race to get tighter as the season goes along.
Runner up: Johnny Gaudreau, Calgary Flames.
Jack Adams Award: Peter Laviolette, Nashville Predators: It is amazing what Laviolette has done this season at his first year at the helm. Nashville is 30-10-5 with 65 points this season. Laviolette deserves a ton of credit for the success of the team.
Runner up: Paul Maurice, Winnipeg Jets.
Hart Trophy: Pekka Rinne, Nashville Predators: Rinne has been unbelievable this season before injuring his knee. Rinne has a record of 29-6-2 with a goals against average of 1.96 and a save percentage of .931. Rinne is a huge reason why Nashville has been having an outstanding season.
Runner up: Ryan Getzlaf, Anaheim Ducks.
Vezina Trophy: Rinne. See above.
Runner up: Carey Price, Montreal Canadiens.
Norris Trophy: Mark Giordano, Calgary Flames: Giordano has been stellar this season for a surprising Calgary team. Giordano has 11 goals and 29 assists which totals to 40 points for a defenseman. Giordano should be able to keep this pace up.
Runner up: Shea Weber, Nashville Predators.
Selke Trophy: Jonathan Toews, Chicago Blackhawks: Toews is an outstanding two-way player that is getting the job done on both sides this season. Toews has 14 goals and 28 assists this season. Expect Toews to continue his great season on what is arguably the best team in the league in Chicago.
Runner up: Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings.
Calder Trophy: Aaron Ekblad, Florida Panthers: Ekblad has been great for Florida this season. Ekblad has 6 goals and 19 assists for a rookie defenseman. Expect the Calder Trophy race to get tighter as the season goes along.
Runner up: Johnny Gaudreau, Calgary Flames.
Jack Adams Award: Peter Laviolette, Nashville Predators: It is amazing what Laviolette has done this season at his first year at the helm. Nashville is 30-10-5 with 65 points this season. Laviolette deserves a ton of credit for the success of the team.
Runner up: Paul Maurice, Winnipeg Jets.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
2014-15 NBA Midseason Awards
Here are my mid-season awards for the 2014-15 NBA Season.
MVP: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors: Curry is having an unbelievable season on the team with the best record in the league. Curry is averaging 22.8 points per game along with 8.1 assists per game. You can make a case the Curry is the leagues best point guard.
Runner up: James Harden, Houston Rockets.
Defensive Player of the Year: Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans: Davis has been outstanding this season, especially on the defensive end. Davis is averaging 24.2 points per game, 10.4 rebounds per game, and 2.9 blocks per game. Davis could be the leagues best player in a few more years.
Runner up: Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs.
Most Improved Player: Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls: Butler has made a significant leap as a player on both ends of the floor. Butler is averaging 20.5 points per game, 6.0 rebounds per game, and 3.3 assists per game. Butler is a restricted free agent at the end of the season and he will likely get a max contract.
Runner up: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors.
Sixth Man of the Year: Isaiah Thomas, Phoenix Suns: Thomas, in his first season in Phoenix, is doing a great job coming off the bench. Thomas is averaging 15.5 points per game, 3.8 rebounds per game, and 2.4 assists per game. This was a tough award to pick, but in my opinion, Thomas has had a lot to do with his teams success as a sixth man.
Runner up: Ryan Andersen, New Orleans Pelicans.
Rookie of the Year: Andrew Wiggins, Minnesota Timberwolves: Wiggins is the best rookie in the league right now. Wiggins is averaging 15.5 points per game, 4.2 rebounds per game, and 1.8 assists per game. Don't be surprised if Wiggins's statistics get better as the season moves on.
Runner up: Nikola Mirotic, Chicago Bulls.
Coach of the Year: Mike Budenholzer, Atlanta Hawks: No team has been more surprising than the Atlanta Hawks. Budenholzer has his team sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference with a record of 37-8. Don't forget Budenholzer used to work under Gregg Popovich in San Antonio.
Runner up: Jason Kidd, Milwaukee Bucks.
Executive of the Year: Donnie Nelson, Dallas Mavericks: Dallas is having a great season and the moves Nelson made are a huge reason why. Nelson signed Chandler Parsons and traded for Tyson Chandler in the offseason. He also traded for Rajon Rondo during the season. Nelson deserves credit for making this team a title contender.
Runner up: Bob Myers, Golden State Warriors.
MVP: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors: Curry is having an unbelievable season on the team with the best record in the league. Curry is averaging 22.8 points per game along with 8.1 assists per game. You can make a case the Curry is the leagues best point guard.
Runner up: James Harden, Houston Rockets.
Defensive Player of the Year: Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans: Davis has been outstanding this season, especially on the defensive end. Davis is averaging 24.2 points per game, 10.4 rebounds per game, and 2.9 blocks per game. Davis could be the leagues best player in a few more years.
Runner up: Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs.
Most Improved Player: Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls: Butler has made a significant leap as a player on both ends of the floor. Butler is averaging 20.5 points per game, 6.0 rebounds per game, and 3.3 assists per game. Butler is a restricted free agent at the end of the season and he will likely get a max contract.
Runner up: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors.
Sixth Man of the Year: Isaiah Thomas, Phoenix Suns: Thomas, in his first season in Phoenix, is doing a great job coming off the bench. Thomas is averaging 15.5 points per game, 3.8 rebounds per game, and 2.4 assists per game. This was a tough award to pick, but in my opinion, Thomas has had a lot to do with his teams success as a sixth man.
Runner up: Ryan Andersen, New Orleans Pelicans.
Rookie of the Year: Andrew Wiggins, Minnesota Timberwolves: Wiggins is the best rookie in the league right now. Wiggins is averaging 15.5 points per game, 4.2 rebounds per game, and 1.8 assists per game. Don't be surprised if Wiggins's statistics get better as the season moves on.
Runner up: Nikola Mirotic, Chicago Bulls.
Coach of the Year: Mike Budenholzer, Atlanta Hawks: No team has been more surprising than the Atlanta Hawks. Budenholzer has his team sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference with a record of 37-8. Don't forget Budenholzer used to work under Gregg Popovich in San Antonio.
Runner up: Jason Kidd, Milwaukee Bucks.
Executive of the Year: Donnie Nelson, Dallas Mavericks: Dallas is having a great season and the moves Nelson made are a huge reason why. Nelson signed Chandler Parsons and traded for Tyson Chandler in the offseason. He also traded for Rajon Rondo during the season. Nelson deserves credit for making this team a title contender.
Runner up: Bob Myers, Golden State Warriors.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
2015 NFL Mock Draft: 1st Edition
Here is my first NFL Mock draft of the year.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, Quarterback, Florida State: The only know about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is that they need a franchise quarterback and neither Mike Glennon and Josh McCown are the answer. Despite throwing 18 interceptions as a redshirt sophomore, Winston obviously possesses a high level of talent.
2. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Mariotta, Quarterback, Oregon: Jake Locker is a free agent and Zach Mettenberger is not the long term answer. A player with Mariota's potential has the ability to become a franchise quarterback.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Leonard Williams, Defensive End/Tackle, USC: Jacksonville has a need on the defensive line. Williams is an imposing player with very few flaws and he can have an impact immediately on this team.
4. Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver, Alabama: Oakland needs at least one, more likely two, very good wide receivers. Cooper could be the type of player who helps quicken Derek Carr's development.
5. Washington Redskins- Randy Gregory, Defensive End, Nebraska: Gregory slipping to fifth is the ideal scenario for Washington. He's a big-impact pass rusher who has been successful on his feet and with his hand in the dirt. He would fill a big need and carries the best player available tag at this spot.
6. New York Jets- Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa: The Jets could use an offensive lineman since the quarterbacks and Amari Cooper will probably be off the board.
7. Chicago Bears- Dante Fowler, Defensive End, Florida: Fowler is an athletic defensive end that has shown great versatility. He is pretty darn athletic and I think the Bears would love him here. Fowler looks like a nice fit in a John Fox defense.
8. Atlanta Falcons- Vic Beasley, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Clemson: Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn will be likely heading to Atlanta to become their Head Coach, so it's easy to go defense here. Beasley could provide a young building block for Quinn's defense as a hybrid pass rusher.
9. New York Giants- Landon Collins, Safety, Alabama: The Giants can go offensive or defensive line here, but how can they not pass up on this talented safety? Collins would bolster their secondary that underachieved a year ago.
10. St. Louis Rams- DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville: Try as they might, St. Louis still lacks a true top shelf wide receiver, though Brian Quick, Kenny Britt and Stedman Bailey had their moments. As for who throws the passes, don't count on St. Louis showing much faith in the oft-injured Sam Bradford, but will there be a quarterback worthy of selection in the range?
11. Minnesota Vikings- Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Stanford: Minnesota could definitely use another wide receiver here, but they can also use protection for Teddy Bridgewater.
12. Cleveland Browns- Kevin White, Wide Receiver, West Virginia: Who knows how much longer Josh Gordon will last in Cleveland, which is why wide receiver could be a possibility in the first round for the Browns. White is dynamic with the ball in the air, using his tracking ability and strong hands to attack the ball and come down with it.
13. New Orleans Saints- Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State: Opposing wide receivers in NFC South: Julio Jones, Roddy White, Mike Evans, Vincent Jackson, Kelvin Benjamin. Unless the Saints go with a pass rusher, they take a pass defender.
14. Miami Dolphins- La'El Collins, Offensive Tackle, LSU: Collins is a powerful and versatile offensive lineman that can play right tackle or guard. Miami continues to rebuild their offensive front.
15. San Francisco 49ers- Danny Shelton, Defensive Tackle, Washington: Defensive line is a need for the Niners and Shelton provides San Francisco and new head coach Jim Tomsula a versatile option at several positions up front.
16. Houston Texans- Erick Hendricks, Middle Linebacker, UCLA: But Kendricks is the top middle linebacker in the draft. He's good in coverage and instinctual. This could be a prime spot for another cornerback if Kareem Jackson leaves in free agency.
17. San Diego Chargers- Shane Ray, Outside Linebacker, Missouri: There are few athletes in this draft like Ray. Scouts say he can run a 4.4 40-yard dash, and at 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, he has the right size to play the outside spot in a John Pagano defense. He had 14.5 sacks last season in the SEC, where offensive lines are loaded with pro talent. Great snag for San Diego at 17.
18. Kansas City Chiefs- Devin Funchess, Wide Receiver/Tight End, Michigan: It's impressive the Chiefs are able to run the ball so effectively considering how little respect defenses have for their wide receivers. Whether Dwayne Bowe stays or not, help is needed.
19. Cleveland Browns- Malcom Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas: Cleveland had trouble stopping the run in 2014 and desperately need to address the defensive line this offseason. Brown has a great mix of quickness, power and versatility to be an instant contributor for Mike Pettine's defense.
20. Philadelphia Eagles- Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington: Would Chip Kelly really draft a player who was dismissed from school due to coachability issues? I think he would, if he believes the player won't be a problem moving forward. Who knows if Peters will be able to keep his head on straight, but his talent is top-10 worthy, potentially giving the Eagles a steal with him this late.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Alvin Dupree, Defensive End, Kentucky: The Bengals need to improve their pass rush. Here, they get Bud Dupree from Kentucky, one of the very best guys in this draft in getting after the quarterback.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers- PJ Williams, Cornerback, Florida State: Pittsburgh needs to address the secondary and here they get a good sized, physical and athletic cornerback in P.J. Williams from Florida State. He looks like a good fit in the Steeler secondary.
23. Detroit Lions- Eddie Goldman, Defensive Tackle, Florida State: With Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley expected to hit free agency, the Lions will be in the market for interior defensive line depth next off-season. Goldman had a breakout junior season for the Seminoles and was the unsung hero on that defense.
24. Arizona Cardinals- Benardrick McKinney, Middle Linebacker, Mississippi State: This type of pick would slam the door on Daryl Washington in Arizona. McKinney is an athletic linebacker who is at his best chasing down the ball carrier.
25. Carolina Panthers- TJ Clemmings, Offensive Tackle, Pittsburgh: Jordan Gross's retirement doesn't get enough national attention when it comes to Carolina's struggles. Cam Newton's body needs all the protection it can get.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Dorial Green-Beckham, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma: Green-Beckham is as controversial of a prospect as there is in this draft. He has off-field issues and didn't play a snap this season, but his talent is endless. He made some catches for Missouri that were reminiscent of Randy Moss.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Jordan Phillips, Defensive Tackle, Oklahoma: Phillips was something of a surprise entrant in the draft, but has legit first-round talent. The Cowboys have some good, young interior pass rushers being groomed, but need a big body who can occupy multiple blockers. That's one of the 334-pound Phillips' specialties.
28. Denver Broncos- Cam Irving, Offensive Tackle, Florida State: You have to protect your aging quarterback Peyton Manning. Flowers is a talented player that's moving up the draft charts. He's very talented but needs more refinement.
29. Indianapolis Colts- Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin: Neither Dan Herron or Trent Richardson appear to be the answer at running back for Indianapolis. Gordon is a perfect talent that Andrew Luck would love to have.
30. Green Bay Packers- Shaq Thompson, Linebacker, Washington: At this point, Thompson would be too talented of a player to pass up in the draft. He's the type of talent you draft and find a spot, whether that be inside or weakside.
31. New England Patriots- Ronnie Stanley, Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame: Stanley has yet to declare whether he'll enter the draft. If he does, that could mean advisors believe he'll go in round one, if not top 20 picks.
32. Seattle Seahawks- Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia: Marshawn Lynch is rumored to be heading out of Seattle. Gurley would be the ideal replacement if Gurley leaves.
6. New York Jets- Brandon Scherff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa: The Jets could use an offensive lineman since the quarterbacks and Amari Cooper will probably be off the board.
7. Chicago Bears- Dante Fowler, Defensive End, Florida: Fowler is an athletic defensive end that has shown great versatility. He is pretty darn athletic and I think the Bears would love him here. Fowler looks like a nice fit in a John Fox defense.
8. Atlanta Falcons- Vic Beasley, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Clemson: Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn will be likely heading to Atlanta to become their Head Coach, so it's easy to go defense here. Beasley could provide a young building block for Quinn's defense as a hybrid pass rusher.
9. New York Giants- Landon Collins, Safety, Alabama: The Giants can go offensive or defensive line here, but how can they not pass up on this talented safety? Collins would bolster their secondary that underachieved a year ago.
10. St. Louis Rams- DeVante Parker, Wide Receiver, Louisville: Try as they might, St. Louis still lacks a true top shelf wide receiver, though Brian Quick, Kenny Britt and Stedman Bailey had their moments. As for who throws the passes, don't count on St. Louis showing much faith in the oft-injured Sam Bradford, but will there be a quarterback worthy of selection in the range?
11. Minnesota Vikings- Andrus Peat, Offensive Tackle, Stanford: Minnesota could definitely use another wide receiver here, but they can also use protection for Teddy Bridgewater.
12. Cleveland Browns- Kevin White, Wide Receiver, West Virginia: Who knows how much longer Josh Gordon will last in Cleveland, which is why wide receiver could be a possibility in the first round for the Browns. White is dynamic with the ball in the air, using his tracking ability and strong hands to attack the ball and come down with it.
13. New Orleans Saints- Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State: Opposing wide receivers in NFC South: Julio Jones, Roddy White, Mike Evans, Vincent Jackson, Kelvin Benjamin. Unless the Saints go with a pass rusher, they take a pass defender.
14. Miami Dolphins- La'El Collins, Offensive Tackle, LSU: Collins is a powerful and versatile offensive lineman that can play right tackle or guard. Miami continues to rebuild their offensive front.
15. San Francisco 49ers- Danny Shelton, Defensive Tackle, Washington: Defensive line is a need for the Niners and Shelton provides San Francisco and new head coach Jim Tomsula a versatile option at several positions up front.
16. Houston Texans- Erick Hendricks, Middle Linebacker, UCLA: But Kendricks is the top middle linebacker in the draft. He's good in coverage and instinctual. This could be a prime spot for another cornerback if Kareem Jackson leaves in free agency.
17. San Diego Chargers- Shane Ray, Outside Linebacker, Missouri: There are few athletes in this draft like Ray. Scouts say he can run a 4.4 40-yard dash, and at 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, he has the right size to play the outside spot in a John Pagano defense. He had 14.5 sacks last season in the SEC, where offensive lines are loaded with pro talent. Great snag for San Diego at 17.
18. Kansas City Chiefs- Devin Funchess, Wide Receiver/Tight End, Michigan: It's impressive the Chiefs are able to run the ball so effectively considering how little respect defenses have for their wide receivers. Whether Dwayne Bowe stays or not, help is needed.
19. Cleveland Browns- Malcom Brown, Defensive Tackle, Texas: Cleveland had trouble stopping the run in 2014 and desperately need to address the defensive line this offseason. Brown has a great mix of quickness, power and versatility to be an instant contributor for Mike Pettine's defense.
20. Philadelphia Eagles- Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington: Would Chip Kelly really draft a player who was dismissed from school due to coachability issues? I think he would, if he believes the player won't be a problem moving forward. Who knows if Peters will be able to keep his head on straight, but his talent is top-10 worthy, potentially giving the Eagles a steal with him this late.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Alvin Dupree, Defensive End, Kentucky: The Bengals need to improve their pass rush. Here, they get Bud Dupree from Kentucky, one of the very best guys in this draft in getting after the quarterback.
22. Pittsburgh Steelers- PJ Williams, Cornerback, Florida State: Pittsburgh needs to address the secondary and here they get a good sized, physical and athletic cornerback in P.J. Williams from Florida State. He looks like a good fit in the Steeler secondary.
23. Detroit Lions- Eddie Goldman, Defensive Tackle, Florida State: With Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley expected to hit free agency, the Lions will be in the market for interior defensive line depth next off-season. Goldman had a breakout junior season for the Seminoles and was the unsung hero on that defense.
24. Arizona Cardinals- Benardrick McKinney, Middle Linebacker, Mississippi State: This type of pick would slam the door on Daryl Washington in Arizona. McKinney is an athletic linebacker who is at his best chasing down the ball carrier.
25. Carolina Panthers- TJ Clemmings, Offensive Tackle, Pittsburgh: Jordan Gross's retirement doesn't get enough national attention when it comes to Carolina's struggles. Cam Newton's body needs all the protection it can get.
26. Baltimore Ravens- Dorial Green-Beckham, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma: Green-Beckham is as controversial of a prospect as there is in this draft. He has off-field issues and didn't play a snap this season, but his talent is endless. He made some catches for Missouri that were reminiscent of Randy Moss.
27. Dallas Cowboys- Jordan Phillips, Defensive Tackle, Oklahoma: Phillips was something of a surprise entrant in the draft, but has legit first-round talent. The Cowboys have some good, young interior pass rushers being groomed, but need a big body who can occupy multiple blockers. That's one of the 334-pound Phillips' specialties.
28. Denver Broncos- Cam Irving, Offensive Tackle, Florida State: You have to protect your aging quarterback Peyton Manning. Flowers is a talented player that's moving up the draft charts. He's very talented but needs more refinement.
29. Indianapolis Colts- Melvin Gordon, Running Back, Wisconsin: Neither Dan Herron or Trent Richardson appear to be the answer at running back for Indianapolis. Gordon is a perfect talent that Andrew Luck would love to have.
30. Green Bay Packers- Shaq Thompson, Linebacker, Washington: At this point, Thompson would be too talented of a player to pass up in the draft. He's the type of talent you draft and find a spot, whether that be inside or weakside.
31. New England Patriots- Ronnie Stanley, Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame: Stanley has yet to declare whether he'll enter the draft. If he does, that could mean advisors believe he'll go in round one, if not top 20 picks.
32. Seattle Seahawks- Todd Gurley, Running Back, Georgia: Marshawn Lynch is rumored to be heading out of Seattle. Gurley would be the ideal replacement if Gurley leaves.
2014-15 NFL Awards
Here are my awards for the 2014-15 NFL Season.
MVP: Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers: Rodgers is the best quarterback in the NFL without a question. He was outstanding this season despite being injured and losing in the NFC Championship game. This season, Rodgers threw for 4,381 yards, threw 38 touchdown passes and 5 interceptions, and had a quarterback rating of a 112.2. Packer fans have to R-E-L-A-X after the epic collapse, they have the MVP on their team and their championship window is still open.
Runner up: JJ Watt, Houston Texans.
Offensive Player of the Year: Rodgers: See reasoning above.
Runner up: Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts.
Defensive Player of the Year: Watt: Watt is the best defensive player in the league. Watt's team was a few breaks away from making the playoffs and Watt would've been my MVP pick if Houston made the playoffs. Watt recorded 20.5 sacks this season along with two defensive touchdowns and three offensive touchdown receptions.
Runner up: Justin Houston, Kansas City Chiefs.
Coach of the Year: Bruce Arians, Arizona Cardinals: Despite losing Carson Palmer (than Drew Stanton) for the season due to injuries, Arians (with a third-string quarterback in Ryan Lindley, who was an atrocity) still made the playoffs as a Wild Card team, but ultimately lost in the first round. With Palmer coming back healthy next season, they should be back in the mix.
Runner up: Jason Garrett, Dallas Cowboys.
Comeback Player of the Year: Rob Gronkowski, New England Patriots: Gronkowski has been healthy all season and he's been great this season and it's a huge reason why New England is in the Super Bowl. He missed a majority of last season and he came back with something to prove. The NFL's best tight end recorded 1,124 receiving yards and 12 touchdown receptions.
Runner up: Rolando McClain, Dallas Cowboys.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Odell Beckham Jr, New York Giants: Beckham was the best offensive rookie in the league and it might not even be close. The best catch ever is just one reason why. His great rookie season turned him into a Pro-Bowler. Beckham recorded 1,305 receiving yards and 12 touchdown receptions.
Runner up: Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Aaron Donald, St. Louis Rams: Donald, on an already a good defensive line in St. Louis, made that defensive line even better. Donald recorded 9 sacks, 37 tackles and 2 forced fumbles.
Runner up: CJ Mosley, Baltimore Ravens.
MVP: Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers: Rodgers is the best quarterback in the NFL without a question. He was outstanding this season despite being injured and losing in the NFC Championship game. This season, Rodgers threw for 4,381 yards, threw 38 touchdown passes and 5 interceptions, and had a quarterback rating of a 112.2. Packer fans have to R-E-L-A-X after the epic collapse, they have the MVP on their team and their championship window is still open.
Runner up: JJ Watt, Houston Texans.
Offensive Player of the Year: Rodgers: See reasoning above.
Runner up: Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts.
Defensive Player of the Year: Watt: Watt is the best defensive player in the league. Watt's team was a few breaks away from making the playoffs and Watt would've been my MVP pick if Houston made the playoffs. Watt recorded 20.5 sacks this season along with two defensive touchdowns and three offensive touchdown receptions.
Runner up: Justin Houston, Kansas City Chiefs.
Coach of the Year: Bruce Arians, Arizona Cardinals: Despite losing Carson Palmer (than Drew Stanton) for the season due to injuries, Arians (with a third-string quarterback in Ryan Lindley, who was an atrocity) still made the playoffs as a Wild Card team, but ultimately lost in the first round. With Palmer coming back healthy next season, they should be back in the mix.
Runner up: Jason Garrett, Dallas Cowboys.
Comeback Player of the Year: Rob Gronkowski, New England Patriots: Gronkowski has been healthy all season and he's been great this season and it's a huge reason why New England is in the Super Bowl. He missed a majority of last season and he came back with something to prove. The NFL's best tight end recorded 1,124 receiving yards and 12 touchdown receptions.
Runner up: Rolando McClain, Dallas Cowboys.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Odell Beckham Jr, New York Giants: Beckham was the best offensive rookie in the league and it might not even be close. The best catch ever is just one reason why. His great rookie season turned him into a Pro-Bowler. Beckham recorded 1,305 receiving yards and 12 touchdown receptions.
Runner up: Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Aaron Donald, St. Louis Rams: Donald, on an already a good defensive line in St. Louis, made that defensive line even better. Donald recorded 9 sacks, 37 tackles and 2 forced fumbles.
Runner up: CJ Mosley, Baltimore Ravens.
Friday, January 16, 2015
2015 NFL Conference Championship Picks
Here are my picks for the 2015 NFL Conference Championship picks.
NFC Championship
(N2) Green Bay Packers (12-4) vs (N1) Seattle Seahawks (12-4)- This NFC Championship is "The Fail Mary Rematch Part 2". In their first meeting since the Fail Mary, Seattle beat Green Bay in week one of this season, 36-16. The storyline of this game is obviously a hobbled Aaron Rodgers against a ferocious Seattle defense. Green Bay arguably caught a break in their divisional round win over Dallas when it seemed like Dez Bryant scored the go ahead touchdown for Dallas, but it was overturned. Even if the Dallas touchdown wasn't overturned, Green Bay's offense still could've marched down the field for a game winning score. Seattle on the other hand, won big against a bad Carolina team in the division round. Seattle and their twelfth man will be poised for this matchup and I believe they will advance to the Super Bowl for the second straight year and take advantage of a banged up Rodgers.
Prediction: Seattle 31, Green Bay 20.
AFC Championship
(A4) Indianapolis Colts (11-5) vs (A1) New England Patriots (12-4)- This is a pretty good matchup for the AFC Championship game. Indianapolis beat Denver in the divisional round in where quarterback Andrew Luck put the team on his back and their defense was solid. A case can be made where it was more about Peyton Manning looking "done" and playing poorly than the Indianapolis defense playing great. New England on the other hand, came from behind to beat Baltimore in their divisional round game. New England's offense was very good while their defense was mediocre. This game has shootout written all over it and I believe home field advantage will help New England advance to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2012.
Prediction: New England 34, Indianapolis 30.
NFC Championship
(N2) Green Bay Packers (12-4) vs (N1) Seattle Seahawks (12-4)- This NFC Championship is "The Fail Mary Rematch Part 2". In their first meeting since the Fail Mary, Seattle beat Green Bay in week one of this season, 36-16. The storyline of this game is obviously a hobbled Aaron Rodgers against a ferocious Seattle defense. Green Bay arguably caught a break in their divisional round win over Dallas when it seemed like Dez Bryant scored the go ahead touchdown for Dallas, but it was overturned. Even if the Dallas touchdown wasn't overturned, Green Bay's offense still could've marched down the field for a game winning score. Seattle on the other hand, won big against a bad Carolina team in the division round. Seattle and their twelfth man will be poised for this matchup and I believe they will advance to the Super Bowl for the second straight year and take advantage of a banged up Rodgers.
Prediction: Seattle 31, Green Bay 20.
AFC Championship
(A4) Indianapolis Colts (11-5) vs (A1) New England Patriots (12-4)- This is a pretty good matchup for the AFC Championship game. Indianapolis beat Denver in the divisional round in where quarterback Andrew Luck put the team on his back and their defense was solid. A case can be made where it was more about Peyton Manning looking "done" and playing poorly than the Indianapolis defense playing great. New England on the other hand, came from behind to beat Baltimore in their divisional round game. New England's offense was very good while their defense was mediocre. This game has shootout written all over it and I believe home field advantage will help New England advance to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2012.
Prediction: New England 34, Indianapolis 30.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
2015 MLB National TV Schedule
Here is the 2015 MLB National TV Schedule with times, channels, and announcers.
April 5th- Cardinals vs Cubs- 8:00PM; ESPN2: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
April 6th- Blue Jays vs Yankees- 1:00PM; ESPN:
April 6th- Mets vs Nationals- 4:00PM; ESPN:
April 6th- Indians vs Astros- 7:00PM; ESPN:
April 6th- Giants vs Diamondbacks- 10:00PM; ESPN2:
April 8th- Red Sox vs Phillies- 7:00PM; ESPN:
April 8th- Padres vs Dodgers- 10:00PM; ESPN:
April 12th- Red Sox vs Yankees- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
April 19th- Reds vs Cardinals- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
April 26th- Mets vs Yankees- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
May 3rd- Yankees vs Red Sox- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
May 10th- Royals vs Tigers- 8:00PM; ESPN:
May 17th- Tigers vs Cardinals- 8:00PM; ESPN:
May 24th- Rangers vs Yankees- 8:00PM; ESPN:
May 31st- Tigers vs Angels- 8:00PM; ESPN2:
July 3rd- Marlins vs Cubs- 2:20PM; ESPN2:
July 3rd- Giants vs Nationals- 6:00PM; ESPN:
July 3rd- Mets vs Dodgers- 10:00PM; ESPN:
April 5th- Cardinals vs Cubs- 8:00PM; ESPN2: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
April 6th- Blue Jays vs Yankees- 1:00PM; ESPN:
April 6th- Mets vs Nationals- 4:00PM; ESPN:
April 6th- Indians vs Astros- 7:00PM; ESPN:
April 6th- Giants vs Diamondbacks- 10:00PM; ESPN2:
April 8th- Red Sox vs Phillies- 7:00PM; ESPN:
April 8th- Padres vs Dodgers- 10:00PM; ESPN:
April 12th- Red Sox vs Yankees- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
April 19th- Reds vs Cardinals- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
April 26th- Mets vs Yankees- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
May 3rd- Yankees vs Red Sox- 8:00PM; ESPN: Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
May 10th- Royals vs Tigers- 8:00PM; ESPN:
May 17th- Tigers vs Cardinals- 8:00PM; ESPN:
May 24th- Rangers vs Yankees- 8:00PM; ESPN:
May 31st- Tigers vs Angels- 8:00PM; ESPN2:
July 3rd- Marlins vs Cubs- 2:20PM; ESPN2:
July 3rd- Giants vs Nationals- 6:00PM; ESPN:
July 3rd- Mets vs Dodgers- 10:00PM; ESPN:
Monday, January 12, 2015
Candidates to replace John Fox as Broncos head coach
After a divisional round playoff home loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the Denver Broncos and head coach John Fox have decided to part ways. Here are some candidates to replace Fox in Denver.
1. Adam Gase, Offensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
2. Jack Del Rio, Defensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
3. Gary Kubiak, Offensive Coordinator, Baltimore Ravens
4. Mike Shanahan, Former Washington Redskins Head Coach
5. Pep Hamilton, Offensive Coordinator, Indianapolis Colts
6. Frank Reich, Offensive Coordinator, San Diego Chargers
7. Darrell Bevell, Offensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
8. Dan Quinn, Defensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
9. Todd Bowles, Defensive a Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals
10. Tony Dungy, NBC Analyst/Former Indianapolis Colts Head Coach
1. Adam Gase, Offensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
2. Jack Del Rio, Defensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
3. Gary Kubiak, Offensive Coordinator, Baltimore Ravens
4. Mike Shanahan, Former Washington Redskins Head Coach
5. Pep Hamilton, Offensive Coordinator, Indianapolis Colts
6. Frank Reich, Offensive Coordinator, San Diego Chargers
7. Darrell Bevell, Offensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
8. Dan Quinn, Defensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
9. Todd Bowles, Defensive a Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals
10. Tony Dungy, NBC Analyst/Former Indianapolis Colts Head Coach
Saturday, January 10, 2015
2015 College Football National Title Game Prediction
The first ever College Football National Title game in this new playoff system is finally here! It will be an awesome game between Ohio State and Oregon and here's what I think will happen.
(2) Oregon (12-1) vs (4) Ohio State (12-1)- These are two great teams that both deserve to be in this position today. Quarterbacks Marcus Mariotta and Coradelle Jones both were outstanding for their respective games in the Rose and Sugar bowls, respectively. It is truly amazing that Ohio State is here considering Jones is their third string quarterback, but I believe Mariotta and Oregon will take home the hardware this year.
Prediction: Oregon 44, Ohio State 40.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
2015 NFL Division Round Predictions
Here are my predictions for the Divison Round of the 2015 NFL Playoffs.
Saturday, January 10th
(A6) Baltimore Ravens (10-6) vs (A1) New England Patriots (12-4)- This is one of the more underrated rivalries in the league. These two teams met in two of the last three AFC Championships and now they meet again here. Baltimore played great on both sides of the ball last week in their Wild Card matchup against Pittsburgh. New England had a first round bye and head coach Bill Belichick better have his team ready for this game because Baltimore is poised to pull off the upset. Expect this game to be very close and I really am feeling the upset here.
Prediction: Baltimore 27, New England 24.
(N4) Carolina Panthers (7-8-1) vs (N1) Seattle Seahawks (12-4)- These two teams played a close game the two times they met in the last two regular seasons. Carolina beat a short handed Arizona team at home in the Wild Card round. Seattle had a first round bye, so they should be very prepared to face this Carolina team. That said, I believe this will be a closer game than people think, but I like Seattle to pull away late here.
Prediction: Seattle 27, Carolina 14.
Sunday, January 11th
(N3) Dallas Cowboys (12-4) vs (N2) Green Bay Packers (12-4)- This is arguably the most intriguing game of the weekend considering these are two storied franchises that have a lot of history against each other. Dallas took advantage of a bad call to win their Wild Card game against Detroit. Green Bay had a first round bye and stories came out today that quarterback Aaron Rodgers has a slight tear in his calf. I fear that Rodgers is not one-hundred percent and I really like Dallas to pull off the upset here.
Prediction: Dallas 30, Green Bay 24.
(A4) Indianapolis Colts (11-5) vs (A2) Denver Broncos- The dominating storyline of this game is obviously the quarterbacks in Andrew Luck, who replaced Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, are playing against each other for the third time of their respective careers and the first time in the playoffs. Manning has not looked like himself the last few weeks, but the first round bye is probably what he and the team needed. Indianapolis won their Wild Card game against a short handed Cincinnati team. That said, Denver is the better team than Indianapolis, but I believe Luck will keep Indianapolis in it until the end.
Prediction: Denver 31, Indianapolis 27.
Saturday, January 10th
(A6) Baltimore Ravens (10-6) vs (A1) New England Patriots (12-4)- This is one of the more underrated rivalries in the league. These two teams met in two of the last three AFC Championships and now they meet again here. Baltimore played great on both sides of the ball last week in their Wild Card matchup against Pittsburgh. New England had a first round bye and head coach Bill Belichick better have his team ready for this game because Baltimore is poised to pull off the upset. Expect this game to be very close and I really am feeling the upset here.
Prediction: Baltimore 27, New England 24.
(N4) Carolina Panthers (7-8-1) vs (N1) Seattle Seahawks (12-4)- These two teams played a close game the two times they met in the last two regular seasons. Carolina beat a short handed Arizona team at home in the Wild Card round. Seattle had a first round bye, so they should be very prepared to face this Carolina team. That said, I believe this will be a closer game than people think, but I like Seattle to pull away late here.
Prediction: Seattle 27, Carolina 14.
Sunday, January 11th
(N3) Dallas Cowboys (12-4) vs (N2) Green Bay Packers (12-4)- This is arguably the most intriguing game of the weekend considering these are two storied franchises that have a lot of history against each other. Dallas took advantage of a bad call to win their Wild Card game against Detroit. Green Bay had a first round bye and stories came out today that quarterback Aaron Rodgers has a slight tear in his calf. I fear that Rodgers is not one-hundred percent and I really like Dallas to pull off the upset here.
Prediction: Dallas 30, Green Bay 24.
(A4) Indianapolis Colts (11-5) vs (A2) Denver Broncos- The dominating storyline of this game is obviously the quarterbacks in Andrew Luck, who replaced Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, are playing against each other for the third time of their respective careers and the first time in the playoffs. Manning has not looked like himself the last few weeks, but the first round bye is probably what he and the team needed. Indianapolis won their Wild Card game against a short handed Cincinnati team. That said, Denver is the better team than Indianapolis, but I believe Luck will keep Indianapolis in it until the end.
Prediction: Denver 31, Indianapolis 27.
Friday, January 2, 2015
Candidates to become the next Raiders head coach
The Oakland Raiders have fired head coach Dennis Allen earlier in the season. Here are some candidates to become the next head coach of the Raiders.
1. Jon Gruden, ESPN Analyst/Former Oakland Raiders&Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach
2. David Shaw, Head Coach, Stanford
3. Kevin Sumlin, Head Coach, Texas A&M
4. Jack Del Rio, Defensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
5. Adam Gase, Offensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
6. Darrell Bevell, Offensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
7. Steve Sarkisian, Head Coach, USC
8. Gary Kubiak, Offensive Coordinator, Baltimore Ravens
9. Winston Moss, Linebackers Coach, Green Bay Packers
10. Eric Mangini, Former New York Jets&Cleveland Browns Head Coach
11. Todd Bowles, Defensive Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals
12. Pep Hamilton, Offensive Coordinator, Indianapolis Colts
13. Pat Shurmur, Offensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles
14. Tony Sparano, Offensive Coordinator, Oakland Raiders
1. Jon Gruden, ESPN Analyst/Former Oakland Raiders&Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach
2. David Shaw, Head Coach, Stanford
3. Kevin Sumlin, Head Coach, Texas A&M
4. Jack Del Rio, Defensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
5. Adam Gase, Offensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
6. Darrell Bevell, Offensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
7. Steve Sarkisian, Head Coach, USC
8. Gary Kubiak, Offensive Coordinator, Baltimore Ravens
9. Winston Moss, Linebackers Coach, Green Bay Packers
10. Eric Mangini, Former New York Jets&Cleveland Browns Head Coach
11. Todd Bowles, Defensive Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals
12. Pep Hamilton, Offensive Coordinator, Indianapolis Colts
13. Pat Shurmur, Offensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles
14. Tony Sparano, Offensive Coordinator, Oakland Raiders
Candidates to replace Doug Marrone as Bills head coach
Head coach Doug Marrone has opted out of his contract with the Buffalo Bills and is now a free agent. Here are some candidates to replace Marrone as Bills head coach.
1. Jim Schwartz, Defensive Coordinator, Buffalo Bills
2. Frank Reich, Offensive Coordinator, San Diego Chargers
3. Rex Ryan, Former New York Jets Head Coach
4. Adam Gase, Offensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
5. Dan Quinn, Defensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
6. Todd Boyles, Defensive Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals
7. Mike Smith, Former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach
8. Hue Jackson, Offensive Coordinator, Cincinnati Bengals
9. Bill Cowher, CBS Analyst/Former Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach
10. Darrell Bevell, Offensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
11. Mike Shanahan, Former Washington Redskins Head Coach
12. Josh McDaniels, Offensive Coordinator, New England Patriots
13. Greg Roman, Offensive Coordinator, San Francisco 49ers
14. Teryl Austin, Defensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions
15. Pat Shurmur, Offensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles
1. Jim Schwartz, Defensive Coordinator, Buffalo Bills
2. Frank Reich, Offensive Coordinator, San Diego Chargers
3. Rex Ryan, Former New York Jets Head Coach
4. Adam Gase, Offensive Coordinator, Denver Broncos
5. Dan Quinn, Defensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
6. Todd Boyles, Defensive Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals
7. Mike Smith, Former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach
8. Hue Jackson, Offensive Coordinator, Cincinnati Bengals
9. Bill Cowher, CBS Analyst/Former Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach
10. Darrell Bevell, Offensive Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
11. Mike Shanahan, Former Washington Redskins Head Coach
12. Josh McDaniels, Offensive Coordinator, New England Patriots
13. Greg Roman, Offensive Coordinator, San Francisco 49ers
14. Teryl Austin, Defensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions
15. Pat Shurmur, Offensive Coordinator, Philadelphia Eagles
2015 NFL Playoffs TV Schedule & Announcers
Here is the schedule for the 2015 NFL Playoffs with announcers.
January 3rd- Cardinals vs Panthers: 4:20PM, ESPN: Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden, Lisa Salters
January 3rd- Ravens vs Steelers: 8:15PM, NBC: Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michelle Tofoya
January 4th- Bengals vs Colts: 1:05PM, CBS: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson
January 4th- Lions vs Cowboys: 4:40PM, FOX: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Erin Andrews, Chris Myers
January 10th- Ravens vs Patriots: 4:30PM, NBC: Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michelle Tofoya
January 10th- Panthers vs Seahawks: 8:00PM, FOX: Kevin Burkhardt, John Lynch, Pam Oliver
January 11th- Cowboys vs Packers: 1:00PM, FOX: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Erin Andrews, Chris Myers
January 11th- Colts vs Broncos: 4:40PM, CBS: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson
January 18th- Packers vs Seahawks: 3:00PM, FOX: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Erin Andrews, Chris Myers
January 18th- Colts vs Patriots: 6:30PM, CBS: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson
January 25th- Pro Bowl: 8:00PM, ESPN: Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden, Lisa Salters
February 1st- Seahawks vs Patriots: 6:30PM, NBC: Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michelle Tofoya
January 3rd- Cardinals vs Panthers: 4:20PM, ESPN: Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden, Lisa Salters
January 3rd- Ravens vs Steelers: 8:15PM, NBC: Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michelle Tofoya
January 4th- Bengals vs Colts: 1:05PM, CBS: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson
January 4th- Lions vs Cowboys: 4:40PM, FOX: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Erin Andrews, Chris Myers
January 10th- Ravens vs Patriots: 4:30PM, NBC: Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michelle Tofoya
January 10th- Panthers vs Seahawks: 8:00PM, FOX: Kevin Burkhardt, John Lynch, Pam Oliver
January 11th- Cowboys vs Packers: 1:00PM, FOX: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Erin Andrews, Chris Myers
January 11th- Colts vs Broncos: 4:40PM, CBS: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson
January 18th- Packers vs Seahawks: 3:00PM, FOX: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Erin Andrews, Chris Myers
January 18th- Colts vs Patriots: 6:30PM, CBS: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson
January 25th- Pro Bowl: 8:00PM, ESPN: Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden, Lisa Salters
February 1st- Seahawks vs Patriots: 6:30PM, NBC: Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michelle Tofoya
2015 NFL Wild Card Predictions
Here are my picks for Wild Card weekend of the 2015 NFL Playoffs.
Saturday, January 3rd
(N5) Arizona Cardinals (11-5) vs (N4) Carolina Panthers (7-8-1)- This is probably the worst game of the four this weekend considering Carolina is in the dreadful NFC South and that Arizona is on their third-string quarterback. Both teams strengths are their defenses so expect a low scoring game here. Carolina, winners of four straight games have home field advantage here so I believe that helps them win here in the Wild Card round over a banged up Arizona squad.
Prediction: Carolina 20, Arizona 16.
(A6) Baltimore Ravens (10-6) vs (A3) Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)- Argubaby the best rivalry in the league, these division rivals will face off for the third time this season, but this time in the playoffs. Pittsburgh will be missing running back Le'Veon Bell because of a knee injury. I would not be surprised if Baltimore pulls off the upset because they typically rise to the occasion in big games, especially against Pittsburgh. Ben Rothlisberger has been playing great lately and he will take advantage of Baltimore's weak secondary en route to a Pittsburgh victory here at home.
Prediction: Pittsburgh 30, Baltimore 24.
Sunday January 4th
(A5) Cincinnati Bengals (10-5-1) vs (A4) Indianapolis Colts (11-5)- These two teams met in the regular season in which Indianapolis shut out Cincinnati. Both of these teams can be vulnerable at times, so this was a tough game to pick. Andy Dalton is 0-3 in career playoff games with Cincinnati while Andrew Luck is 1-2 in career playoff games with Indianapolis. Cincinnati should be able to run the ball very well since Indianapolis's run defense is not very good. I believe Luck outplays Dalton, which is why I believe Indianapolis will win this game.
Prediction: Indianapolis 27, Cincinnati 20.
(N6) Detroit Lions (11-5) vs (N3) Dallas Cowboys (12-4)- This game is arguably the most intriguing of the four games this weekend considering America's Team, who has looked like the best team in the league for most of the season, is hosting a playoff game for the first time in five years. Detroit is back in the postseason after missing the postseason the last two seasons. I believe Tony Romo and the 'Boys will come out with something to prove and will win this one.
Prediction: Dallas 31, Detroit 23.
Saturday, January 3rd
(N5) Arizona Cardinals (11-5) vs (N4) Carolina Panthers (7-8-1)- This is probably the worst game of the four this weekend considering Carolina is in the dreadful NFC South and that Arizona is on their third-string quarterback. Both teams strengths are their defenses so expect a low scoring game here. Carolina, winners of four straight games have home field advantage here so I believe that helps them win here in the Wild Card round over a banged up Arizona squad.
Prediction: Carolina 20, Arizona 16.
(A6) Baltimore Ravens (10-6) vs (A3) Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)- Argubaby the best rivalry in the league, these division rivals will face off for the third time this season, but this time in the playoffs. Pittsburgh will be missing running back Le'Veon Bell because of a knee injury. I would not be surprised if Baltimore pulls off the upset because they typically rise to the occasion in big games, especially against Pittsburgh. Ben Rothlisberger has been playing great lately and he will take advantage of Baltimore's weak secondary en route to a Pittsburgh victory here at home.
Prediction: Pittsburgh 30, Baltimore 24.
Sunday January 4th
(A5) Cincinnati Bengals (10-5-1) vs (A4) Indianapolis Colts (11-5)- These two teams met in the regular season in which Indianapolis shut out Cincinnati. Both of these teams can be vulnerable at times, so this was a tough game to pick. Andy Dalton is 0-3 in career playoff games with Cincinnati while Andrew Luck is 1-2 in career playoff games with Indianapolis. Cincinnati should be able to run the ball very well since Indianapolis's run defense is not very good. I believe Luck outplays Dalton, which is why I believe Indianapolis will win this game.
Prediction: Indianapolis 27, Cincinnati 20.
(N6) Detroit Lions (11-5) vs (N3) Dallas Cowboys (12-4)- This game is arguably the most intriguing of the four games this weekend considering America's Team, who has looked like the best team in the league for most of the season, is hosting a playoff game for the first time in five years. Detroit is back in the postseason after missing the postseason the last two seasons. I believe Tony Romo and the 'Boys will come out with something to prove and will win this one.
Prediction: Dallas 31, Detroit 23.
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