Andrew Luck Shines as Peyton Returns to Indy; Colts 39, Broncos 33

Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck shake hands after Sunday's game

Peyton Manning made his return to Indianapolis Sunday night, and it lived up to all of the hype. It was an emotional night for Peyton, who was returning to his former team's city for the first time in his Bronco's career. Peyton was honored before the game with a video tribute for all of his accomplishments in a Colts uniform. Manning was very emotional at the beginning of the game, stopping his warm-up routine to say thank you as the crowd gave him a well deserved standing ovation. The game was very closely contested as I had figured it would be, but I couldn't have imagined that Peyton would have been stopped the way he was in this game.


Peyton Manning has been having a ridiculous season, throwing for 25 touchdowns to only three interceptions through seven games. Manning was sharp, throwing for 386 yards and three scores in the loss, but he made some uncharacteristic mistakes, as he lost a fumble that went into the end zone for a safety, and he also threw a pick late in the game with the game on the line. Peyton Manning is a great NFL quarterback and in my opinion the absolute best there ever was, but if there was any game he really wanted to perform in and win, this was it.

Instead, on the other side of the ball Andrew Luck was able to be lights out. Luck didn't have insanely monstrous numbers, but his 228 yards and three scores were enough to lead Indy passed Denver. The big question mark now for the Colts is who will step up in the receiving core after Reggie Wayne went down with a torn ACL in the 4th quarter. It just breaks my heart to see such a hard-working and dedicated guy go down with an injury like that. The Colts will look to T.Y. Hilton and Darrius Heyward-Bey to step up in his absence.

Next Up for Denver: vs Washington

Next up for Indy: BYE, then @ Houston

Credits:
Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck Photo:
http://www.wbir.com/story/sports/nfl/2013/10/21/broncos-lose-to-colts/3142593/
Info from:
http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=331020011
Video Recap from the ESPN Show First Take:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R73wKhzE0XY&feature=player_embedded

Russell Westbrook Out 4-6 Weeks

Russell Westbrook is one of the best PG's in the NBA Today

 

The Oklahoma City Thunder received some bad news yesterday, hearing that star Point Guard Russell Westbrook will be out the first four to six weeks of the 2013 NBA season after undergoing a knee procedure. Westbrook, who averaged 23.2 PPG, 7.4 assists, and nearly two steals a game in 2013, was injured on a play in the playoffs last season against Houston. News of a surgery done to lower the swelling in his knee broke yesterday on ESPN, and it will be a big loss for Oklahoma City to have to play without him.

The Thunder do however, have arguably the best player in the league in Kevin Durant. Durant won the scoring title last season, so he can certainly make up for the loss of Westbrook on the scoring end, but when Westbrook is on the court it makes it that much more difficult to guard Durant. The team is definitely better when Westbrook is on the court, even though he had been criticized in the past for his decision making and apparent want to be the teams super star at times.

Westbrook is a star player in the NBA with his explosive speed that allows him to blow by defenders, and he is also very physical on the defensive end. This is a big blow to the Thunder, but at least it comes near the beginning of the year, and not playoff time.





Credits:
Russell Westbrook Photo From:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1068905-nba-the-4-guys-who-should-actually-be-in-the-dunk-contest
Information from:
http://espn.go.com/nba/player/_/id/3468/russell-westbrook
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ffb50MYWgSE

2013 Should-Be MLB Award Winners

Miguel Cabrera is the best player in Baseball

It's that time of year again, the baseball season is winding down, and you can smell October baseball in the air. Many players have been very good this season, and many are deserving for each of the awards that Major League Baseball hands out each and every year, but looking at the front runners for each award shows pretty much a clear cut favorite to win each award this season, with the exception of the National League Rookie of the Year award. That being said, here are my finalists for each MLB award, and who should win each award.

American League MVP: Miguel Cabrera, 3B, Detroit Tigers
Runner-Up: Chris Davis, 1B, Baltimore Orioles

This should be a no-brainer. Chris Davis had one hell of a season with the Baltimore Orioles, hitting for a .285 average, an unbelievable 52 home runs and 137 runs batted in, but Davis's home run total is the only thing that will keep Miguel Cabrera for making history as the only player to ever win back-to-back Triple Crowns. Cabrera has a .345 average, 44 homers, and 137 RBI's. Cabrera just seems to be getting better and better each year, which is unbelievable when you look at the production that he has put up in his last couple seasons. Miggy is by far the best hitter of the decade, and it's starting to look like he may be up there as one of the best players to ever swing a bat in MLB history.

Pirates centerfielder Andrew McCutchen

National League MVP: Andrew McCutchen, OF, Pittsburgh Pirates
Runner-Up: Yadier Molina, C, St. Louis Cardinals

Andrew McCutchen is the perfect player for the National League MVP Award. The Pirates are finally back in the playoffs, and McCutchen is a big reason on why they are where they are. McCutchen is batting .317 with 20 homers, and 83 RBI's. He also is two doubles shy of becoming the second player in baseball with 40 doubles, 20 steals, and 20 homers in the same season. McCutchen is a beast in the middle of the Pirates lineup, and he plays harder than anyone else in the game. He plays center field with a motor that's always running, and he puts in the best effort day in and day out.

Max Scherzer is the best fit for the 2013 AL Cy Young

American League Cy Young Award: Max Scherzer, Detroit Tigers
Runner-Up: Yu Darvish, Texas Rangers

Max Scherzer wasn't someone who I expected to come out and be a world beater in 2013, but that is exactly what he was. Back in 2011 Scherzer showed some signs of potentially becoming an ace in the Detroit Tigers rotation right behind Verlander. In 2012 he showed a high strike-out number, racking up 231 punch-outs. The big lift from 2012 to 2013 was in the win column for Max Scherzer, going from 16 wins all the way up to 21. With a 21-3 record, 240 strikeouts, and an era of 2.90, Scherzer is the clear American League Cy Young winner.

Liriano was a huge part of the Pirates success in 2013

National League Cy Young Award: Francisco Liriano, Pittsburgh Pirates
Runner-Up: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

Francisco Liriano came up huge for Pittsburgh in 2013, and he has really become his old self. I feel that Liriano would be a great winner for the 2013 National League Cy Young Award, especially because he was a pivotal part of bringing Pittsburgh back to relevancy. Francisco didn't have the most strikeouts in the National League in 2013, and he wasn't the top person in era either. Liriano was however, one of the best pitchers in baseball. Liriano won 16 games this year, and was a threat to give the bullpen short work, and gave his team a chance to win with each start. I look at him as the winner of this award, not for his stats, but for his value.

Wil Myers was a great pick-up for the Tampa Bay Rays

American League Rookie of the Year: Wil Myers, OF, Tampa Bay Rays
Runner-Up: Jose Iglesias, SS, Detroit Tigers

The Tampa Bay Rays are lucky to say that they made a deal that will long impact their future by trading for Wil Myers during the offseason. The trade sent Royals prospect Wil Myers to Tampa Bay for some solid pitching, but it was a risk the Rays took, and it definitely paid off for them. Myers hit .293, with 13 homers and 53 RBI's in 88 games for the Rays. Myers is a solid player offensively, and he is something that they were in need of in the middle of their line-up. He is by far the best candidate for this award, and I hope he takes it home.

Yasiel Puig took the league by storm in 2013

National League Rookie of the Year: Yasiel Puig, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers
Runner-Up- Jose Fernandez, SP, Marlins

Was there a bigger story in 2013 for a break out player in the National League other than Yasiel Puig? Puig took the league by storm in 2013, coming in from Cuba and performing to the highest level in Los Angeles. Yasiel plays hard and always gives it 100 percent effort, going after balls with full force into the wall, diving to make a catch, trying to take an extra base. Puig does all those little things and he has enough talent that could develop him into an All-Star for many years to come. Yasiel hit .319, 19 home runs, and drove in 42 runs for the Dodgers in 2013. Puig is a superstar in the making, and even though Jose Fernandez was unbelievable this season, I like Puig for the award.

Terry Francona was a big part of the Indians turn around in 2013

American League Manager of the Year: Terry Francona, Cleveland Indians
Runner-Up: John Farell, Boston Red Sox

The Cleveland Indians almost completely reversed their record in 2013 from how it was a year ago, and Terry Francona was one of the reasons behind the remarkable turn around. Francona was hired in the offseason to become the teams manager, and in his first year with the team he led them to a 92-70 record, after they finished 68-94 the season before. With some offseason additions, Francona was able to mold the Indians to a wild card playoff team. Francona was a great manager in Boston, and he carried over his success to Cleveland, where he deserves the honors for 2013 American League Manager of the year.

Hurdle brought the Pirates back to relevancy

National League Manager of the Year: Clint Hurdle, Pittsburgh Pirates
Runner-Up: Don Mattingly, Los Angeles Dodgers

Clint Hurdle has made all the difference in Pittsburgh the last few years. Ever since he took over in 2010 and said that his goal was to electrify the city, and he has done just that. Hurdle guided the Pirates to two seasons that showed promise, but ended in big second-half collapses. This season however, he was having none of it. The Pirates seemed to be able to string together wins when they mattered the most, and the Pirates almost won their division for the first time since 1992, back when they were a part of the NL East. Clint Hurdle led Pittsburgh to a winning record, and a playoff berth, with the Pirates winning over 90 games this season. The Pirates went 94-68 this season.

Note: These are NOT the actual winners of this award as of now, these are my picks for each award. The actual winners will be announced within the near future.

Credits:
Miguel Cabrera Photo:
 http://waiverwireblog.com
Second Miguel Cabrera Photo:
http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/8631764/miguel-cabrera-mike-trout-race-al-mvp
Andrew McCutchen Photo:
http://www.thesportsfanjournal.com/columns/a-pirate-rises-andrew-mccutchen-is-saving-baseball-in-pittsburgh/attachment/andrew-mccutchen-3/
Max Scherzer Photo:
http://www.posternation.com/category/sports/baseball/major-league-baseball-mlb/american-league-al/40
Francisco Liriano Photo:
http://mlb.si.com/2013/07/29/what-is-dead-may-never-die-inside-the-resurgence-of-francisco-liriano/
Wil Myers Photo:
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/dCO0jYFAnPp/Tampa+Bay+Rays+v+Boston+Red+Sox/KzeUS1Y442z/Wil+Myers
Yasiel Puig Photo:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/news/20130614/yasiel-puig-dodgers-scours/
Terry Francona Photo:
http://onlyagame.wbur.org/2012/10/13/mlb-francona-manager
Clint Hurdle Photo:
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/ZY61-aXvajS/Colorado+Rockies+v+Pittsburgh+Pirates/O_ZkCCSXF63/Clint+Hurdle
Information taken from:
http://www.espn.com

NFL Week 4 Predictions

Tom Brady and New England go into Atlanta and hope to escape with a victory

Week 4 Predictions:

Colts vs Jaguars- Colts

Ravens vs Bills- Ravens

Bengals vs Browns- Bengals

Lions vs Bears- Bears

Giants vs Chiefs- Chiefs

Steelers vs Vikings- Steelers

Cardinals vs Bucs- Cardinals

Seahawks vs Texans- Seahawks

Jets vs Titans- Titans

Eagles vs Broncos- Broncos

Redskins vs Raiders- Redskins

Cowboys vs Chargers- Cowboys

Patriots vs Falcons- Falcons

Dolphins vs Saints- Saints

Raise The Jolly Roger!

The Pirates are going to the playoffs for the first time in 21 years!

It's finally over. After twenty-one years, the Pittsburgh Pirates are finally going to the playoffs. The Pirates clinched in dramatic fashion as Starling Marte rocketed a two-out bomb to left to take the lead in the top of the ninth.

It has been an incredible season for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Pedro Alvarez broke out this season, launching an National League leading 34 home runs. The Bucs bullpen known as "The Shark Tank" has been an incredible story this year, with the back end of it being as forceful as ever. Mark Melancon and Jason Grilli have taken control of the set-up and closing roles respectfully, and Andrew McCutchen was everything they needed him to be this year, even with his power numbers down from the previous year.

The Pirates have gotten strong outings all season from starting pitching, the core of the pitching staff being Francisco Liriano, A.J. Burnett, Jeff Locke, and Gerrit Cole. Cole, even though he wasn't a starter with the big league club all year, played a huge part in the Pittsburgh Pirates accomplishing what they did.

Pirates fans can rejoice in the fact that the playoffs are happening in 2013, and they no longer have to be disapointed about the huge collapse of last year. The 21-straight sub .500 seasons are over, and the Pirates are going to be at least a wild card team. The Pirates would have to win and have the Cardinals slip up to become NL Central Champions, but the Pirates should be happy to be in the postseason. The Pirates will play the Reds in the first round, unless the Cardinals slip up.

The Reds Pirates series that starts tonight is huge. Whoever finishes with the better record will host the one game playoff. I hope to see the Pirates win home-field for that game, and I think in a one game series, Liriano has to be the one to tool the rubber for Pittsburgh. I'm glad to see the Pirates back in the playoffs, all I have to say is Let's Go Bucs!



Credits:
Starling Marte Photo:
http://www.salon.com/2013/09/24/pirates_clinch_1st_playoff_berth_in_21_years_2/
Information:
http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-pirates

NFL Week 3 Predictions

The Bengals are coming off a big win, and will play a tough one against Green Bay today

Week 3 Predictions:

Packers vs Bengals, 31-30 Packers

Rams vs Cowboys, 35-34 Rams

Chargers vs Titans, 27-13 Titans

Browns vs Vikings, 31-18 Vikings

Bucs vs Patriots, 45-13 Patriots

Cardinals vs Saints, 41-37 Saints

Lions vs Redskins, 24-16 Lions

Giants vs Panthers, 30-27 Giants

Texans vs Ravens, 24-13 Texans

Colts vs 49ers, 45-12 49ers

Dolphins vs Falcons, 31-24 Falcons

Jets vs Bills, 31-30 Bills

Jaguars vs Seahawks, 56-3 Seahawks

Bears vs Steelers, 34-10 Bears

Broncos vs Raiders, 28-27 Broncos

Notes:

Last week I went 12-3, and on Thursday night I had the Eagles defeating the Chiefs, so going into today I sit at 12-4 with my predictions for the 2013 season.

Credits:
Giovani Bernard Photo:
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/bernard-leads-bengals-20-10-win-steelers-article-1.1458123

NFL Week 2 Predictions

The 49ers have a big matchup against Seattle today

Week 2 Predictions:

Chargers vs Eagles, Chargers, 27-16

Colts vs Dolphins, Colts, 27-21

Redskins vs Packers, Packers 35-34

Rams vs Falcons, Falcons 31-14

Panthers vs Bills, Bills 41-36

Vikings vs Bears, Bears 20-17

Chiefs vs Cowboys, Chiefs 31-24

Browns vs Ravens, Ravens 16-14

Titans vs Texans, Texans 24-21

Cardinals vs Lions, Lions 45-41

Saints vs Bucs, Saints 21-9

Jaguars vs Raiders, Raiders 16-13

Broncos vs Giants, Broncos 38-20

49ers vs Seahawks, 49ers 23-16

Bengals vs Steelers, Bengals 24-13

Photo Credit:

http://elitedaily.com/sports/colin-kaepernick-trademarking-kaepernicking-celebration/

2013 AFC South Preview

The 2013 AFC South division was one that included an inspiring story, that of course being the story of the Colts season. First let's take a look at how 2012 faired for these teams:

 

1. Houston Texans 12-4

 

2. Indianapolis Colts 11-5

 

3. Tennessee Titans 6-10

 

4. Jacksonville Jaguars 2-14

*Playoff teams in red

 

 

You just can't say enough about Andrew Luck

 

 

Indianapolis Colts:

Key Additions: WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, S LaRon Landry, OT Gosder Cherilus

Key Draft Picks: LB Bjoern Werner

 

The Colts overachieved in 2012, and were truly a Cinderella story. The Colts turned around their gruesome 2-14 record to an 11-5 record in only one season, and even made a playoff berth. The Colts decided to let go of Peyton Manning and went on to draft Andrew Luck, who developed much quicker than many people could have ever thought. Luck became an above average quarterback in just one year, making him on the border of being the next elite NFL quarterback. This team depended on Luck in 2012, but they also had key production from guys like Reggie Wayne and T.Y. Hilton. I expect the Colts to play for this division in 2013.

 

 

Arian Foster will look to lead Houston's offense again in 2013

 

Houston Texans:

Key Additions: S Ed Reed, P Shane Lechler

Key Draft Picks: WR DeAndre Hopkins, S D.J. Swearinger

 

The Houston Texans had a very productive 2012 season, winning their division in back to back years, and gaining post season berth, where they went on to lose to New England. Arian Foster was a big reason for their success, rushing for 1,424 yards and 15 scores. Even though the Texans didn't really lose anyone, I feel like their chances at the Super Bowl are becoming slim rather quickly, with each year they fail to make it to the AFC Championship game.

 

 

Can Jake Locker finally be relevant?

 

Tennessee Titans

Key Additions: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, RB Shonn Greene, G Andy Levitre 

Key Draft Picks: WR Justin Hunter, G Chance Warmack

 

This team will have to have some stellar play out of quarterback Jake Locker and Chris Johnson to stay competitive on Sundays. The Titans have some good receivers to hopefully help Locker grow in the offense, but if he can't get it done, don't be too surprised to see some of Ryan Fitzpatrick. Neither one of these quarterbacks will really propel this team into the playoffs, so Chris Johnson, you're going to have to carry the ball as you have in the past, and be the big play feature back that this team needs you to be. The Titans will claw and scrap at teams this season, but they won't put up a big threat as far as the playoffs are concerned.

 

 

 

Jags fans can be glad to see this again

 

Jacksonville Jaguars:

Key Additions: CB Marcus Trufant, RB Justin Forsett

Key Draft Picks: OT Luke Joeckel, ATH Denard Robinson, S Johnathan Cyprien

 

Jaguars fans rejoice! MJD is going to back on the field in 2013! The Jaguars really have no hope for 2013 but the fans can be happy to see Marice Jones-Drew healthy and back from injury. It is also nice to see that Blaine Gabbert has finally made some progress, but this team needs so much work for it to be anywhere near where it needs to be to be competitive. This year will be rough but will provide much needed experience for a young team.

 

So here are my 2013 season predictions for the AFC South Standings:

 

1. Houston Texans

2. Indianapolis Colts

3. Tennessee Titans

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

 

 

 

 

Credits:

AFC South Photo:

http://theoclardy.wordpress.com/2012/09/01/theo-c-s-2012-2013-nfl-season-predictions/

Andrew Luck Photo:

http://www.stack.com/2012/12/01/lessons-learned-from-colts/

Colts info:

http://walterfootball.com/offseason2013ind.php

Arian Foster Photo:

http://helmet2helmet.com/2012/03/03/arian-foster-most-likely-candidate-for-texans-tag/

 Houston Texans info:

http://walterfootball.com/offseason2013hou.php

Jake Locker Photo: 

http://www.tumblr.com

Tennessee Titans Info:

http://walterfootball.com/offseason2013ten.php

MJD Photo:

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/19745574/jaguars-te-marcedes-lewis-on-mjd-we-need-Maurice

Jaguars Info:

http://walterfootball.com/offseason2013jax.php

2012 Standings:

http://espn.go.com/nfl/standings/_/year/2012/seasontype/2

2013 AFC East Preview

It's been too long since I have been on here, but it's finally time to get back to business, and what better way than to get back into the swing of my NFL previews for 2013. Last year the AFC East showed the Buffalo Bills and Jets struggle, Ryan Tannehill take over the reigns as the Dolphins starting quarterback, and then Tom Brady and New England powering their way through. 

Here's the final standings for the 2012 AFC East:

New England: 12-4

Miami: 7-9

New York Jets: 6-10

Buffalo Bills: 6-10

*Playoff teams in red

This division shouldn't have fooled many people, because it played out very close to most expectations. Brady was Brady, the Dolphins improved, the Jets were their normal overrated selves, and the Bills didn't have a lot to be happy about. Let's look at how I think 2013 will play out.

What will the Patriots do in 2013?

New England Patriots:

Key Additions: WR Danny Amendola, WR Aaron Dobson, WR Josh Boyce

Key Draft Picks: WR Aaron Dobson, WR Josh Boyce

By now, we all know all of the things that happened in the offseason with the Patriots. Aaron Hernandez was in the news all summer for his connection with the murder of Odin Lloyd, and there was also a ton of drama, as always, surrounding Tim Tebow and the Patriots deciding to pick him up and give him a chance to make an NFL squad in 2013. Tebow was just released from the team recently. Anyways, New England should take the AFC East in 2013 without too much difficulty. Even with losing Wes Welker to Denver, Rob Gronkowski to injury, and losing Aaron Hernandez to his off the field issues, this Patriots offense will be very different in 2013. Fortunately, the Patriots still have Tom Brady, and he will make any wide receiving core seem elite. Expect a division title from the Patriots come playoff time.

EJ Manuel provides hope for the future in Buffalo

Buffalo Bills:

Key Additions: QB Kevin Kolb, DT Alan Branch

Key Draft Picks: QB EJ Manuel, WR Robert Woods, LB Kiko Alonso

Nobody circles the wagons like the Buffalo Bills! Well, 2012 was a struggle, and the Bills decided to part ways with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, and the Bills got a real steal with EJ Manuel in the 2013 NFL Draft. Manuel, a star quarterback in college, was perhaps undervalued by NFL scouts, and he has proven so far through the preseason until he went down with a knee problem, that he should easily be named the starter of this team over Kevin Kolb. Manuel now, may be back in time to be able to start the season opener, as I personally believe he should. I think the Bills have a strong chance to over achieve to a .500 record or better, but they will be staying at home come playoff time.

Mike Wallace was one of many new players to join the Miami Dolphins in the offseason

Miami Dolphins:

Key Additions: LB Dannell Ellerbe, WR Mike Wallace, K Caleb Sturgis

Key Draft Picks: K Caleb Sturgis

The Dolphins mixed somethings up this offseason and it will definitely show when football is back in action on Sunday. Miami let go of running back Reggie Bush and linebacker Karlos Dansby, but they also added some key guys in Dannell Ellerbe and Phillip Wheeler. Miami also added a key deep threat for Tannehill, in Mike Wallace. Wallace was a machine in his years with the Steelers, and I see Tannehill being much better than he was last year, and with a big play receiver, I think that the Dolphins may be able to surprise people and be a sleeper team for a wild card spot in 2013.

New York Jets:

Key Additions: CB Dee Milliner, QB Geno Smith

Key Draft Picks: CB Dee Milliner, QB Geno Smith

Rex Ryan lost a lot of weight, and that's not the only thing the Jets have lost lately. This team is just awful. Let me put how the 2012 Jets looked, and how the 2013 Jets will look, just into one play from 2012:

Ahh, It's beautiful isn't it? The well known butt fumble.

Well, to nobody's surprise, here are my 2013 AFC East final standings:

1. New England Patriots

2. Miami Dolphins

3. Buffalo Bills

4. New York Jets

Credits:

AFC East Photo:

http://sportsinvasion.net/2012/08/nfl-feature-afc-east-preview/

Info:

Tom Brady Photo:

http://www.fantasyfootballchallenge.com/articles/sit-and-start-quarterbacks-week-2-487.html/new-england-patriots-quarterback-tom-brady-calls-a-play-during-the-second-half-of-their-nfl-game-against-the-tennessee-titans-in-nashville/

New England Patriots Info:

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1646317-the-6-best-and-worst-moves-of-the-new-england-patriots-2013-offseason/page/6
EJ Manuel Photo:
http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2013-09-01/ej-manuel-back-practice-knee-buffalo-bills-opener-vs-new-england-patriots
Bills Info:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1684858-grading-every-buffalo-bills-offseason-move-to-date/page/7
http://www.buffalobills.com/news/article-2/2013-Buffalo-Bills-Draft-Class/01183453-32f1-4b55-a6ee-9d09f0905aa4
Mike Wallace Photo:
http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2013-07-23/sports/sfl-why-has-mike-wallace-gotten-off-to-a-slow-start-20130723_1_mike-wallace-wallace-and-tannehill-cameron-wake
Miami Dolphins info:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1689487-miami-dolphins-most-under-and-overrated-offseason-moves/page/7
The Butt Fumble Gif:
http://pandawhale.com/post/9525/mark-sanchez-butt-fumble-gif-buttfumble
2012 NFL Standings:
http://espn.go.com/nfl/standings/_/year/2012/seasontype/2

College Football Preseason Polls

Bama enters 2013 as the number one team in the land

Top 25 College Football Preseason Rankings:

1. Alabama
2. Ohio State
3. Oregon
4. Stanford
5. Georgia
6. South Carolina
7. Texas A&M
8. Clemson
9. Louisville
10. Florida
11. Florida State
12. LSU
13. Oklahoma State
14. Notre Dame
15. Texas 
16. Oklahoma
17. Michigan
18. Nebraska
19. Boise State
20. TCU
21. UCLA
22. Northwestern
23. Wisconsin
24. USC
25. Oregon State

It really isn't a surprise to see really any of these names in the Top 25, and Alabama at number one is a no brainer. I think Clemson and Louisville both have a chance to go undefeated, but I'm still not sure if Clemson will be able to slip passed Georgia this weekend. Be sure to watch as the college football season kicks off tomorrow night with North Carolina vs South Carolina on ESPN!





Credits:
Alabama Photo:
http://bangordailynews.com/2012/01/10/sports/alabama-shuts-out-lsu-for-bcs-title/
Info From:
http://espn.go.com/college-football/rankings

2013 MLB Trade Deadline Moves

Many teams were active around the 2013 Trade Deadline

Many teams decided to make last minute deals at the 2013 deadline, and this year most of the big names to be moved were all starting pitchers. Some contending teams made some interesting deals to try to better themselves for the long stretch to the playoffs. The Red Sox, Dodgers, Rangers, Yankees, Orioles, and Padres surprisingly enough all made moves to try to improve. Here are the following big moves:

SP Matt Garza to the Rangers

OF Alfonso Soriano to the Yankees
RP Brian Wilson signs with the Dodgers
SP Jake Peavy to the Red Sox
SP Bud Norris to the Orioles
SP Ian Kennedy to the Padres

Matt Garza should add depth to the Rangers starting staff

Matt Garza: 2013 Stats: 

2.95 ERA, 7-1 record, 73 strikeouts, and a 1.10 WHIP

Matt Garza is a quality starting pitcher in the MLB, and has been ever since the start of his career in Tampa Bay. Garza is a high strikeout pitcher, and someone who can be trusted to take the ball every fifth day. His record wasn't exactly what it should have been last year playing for a lousy Cubs team, but you can overlook the win-loss stat with how good his other numbers are. Matt Garza looks to give depth to a rotation that already features Yu Darvish and Derek Holland. This team has a solid offense and three quality starting pitchers, but with the MLB cracking down on the players connected to the Biogensis clinic, they could potentially lose All-Star slugger Nelson Cruz. So Texas gets an A for acquiring Garza, but a C- for not acquiring some sort of security blanket in case the MLB suspends Cruz for the rest of the season.

Alfonso Soriano looks a little different in pinstripes

OF Alfonso Soriano 2013 Stats:

.256 AVG, 18 HR, 55 RBI, .287 OBP

Soriano has proven to be a good outfielder his whole career, most of it spent with the Chicago Cubs. Personally, Soriano is a good player to replace Granderson for the time being, but he's an older player, and this deal just doesn't add up in my book. The New York Yankees already have older outfielders in Ichiro and Vernon Wells, but now they've added another one. Hopefully Soriano can continue to play at a high level, but he is almost nearing the end of his career, though I'm sure he is happy to finally be on a better team than the Chicago Cubs. I give the Yankees a D on this move, but if Soriano produces, I will change that to a B+.

Brian Wilson was once one of the best closers in baseball

Brian Wilson 2013 Stats:

N/A

Brian Wilson had to be shut down due to Tommy John Surgery, but the Dodgers picking him up for a million dollar deal is an absolute steal. Wilson, who has 171 career saves, 48 in 2010, was an amazing closer, and if he can return to form he will be a great addition to a bullpen. It is a low risk deal with barely any money on the table at this point, but if Wilson becomes the Wilson of old, his beard will start rocking the majors again. I give this low risk high reward deal an A.

Oh, and before I move on to the next trade deadline move, here is Wilson's priceless ESPN commercial.

Jake Peavy will be a good addition to the Red Sox rotation

SP Jake Peavy 2013 Stats:

4.28 ERA, 8-4 Record, 76 strikeouts, 1.14 WHIP

The Red Sox may have panicked by making this move. The Red Sox really need their ace Clay Bucholz back, but this deal brings in a solid left-handed arm. Peavy won a CY Young Award back in 2007, and he has always been a reliable starter for all of his 11 years in the MLB. I like Peavy in this rotation, but I don't like the Red Sox giving up Jose Iglesias in the deal. Boston will have Bucholz back at some point, giving them a rotation that features Bucholz, Lester, Lackey, Peavy, and Felix Doubront. Doubront needs to improve, but he would be an above average fifth starter. If Boston's rotation can be this good, this team will stay hot and win the American League East without too much trouble. This deal makes them the clear cut favorite, if they weren't already. I wish they'd have kept Iglesias, but since they didn't, I give this move a B+. 

Bud Norris should be happy for a change of scenery

Bud Norris 2013 Stats:

3.89 ERA, 7-9 Record, 98 Strikeouts, 1.39 WHIP

I honestly thought it was just a matter of time until Bud Norris was out of Houston. Norris should be happy, because he is a great starting pitcher, but playing for Houston made his win loss record seem much worse than it would be if he was on a decent team. Bud Norris is a quality pitcher, something that Baltimore could really use down the stretch to try and win the American League wildcard spot, and push them into the playoffs. It was a move that the Orioles needed to make, and it's nice to see someone like Norris leave a bad situation to have a chance to become a much more recognized name, something that he wouldn't have received in Houston. I'll give Baltimore a B on this move, not because it wasn't a good one, but because they needed more than one starting pitcher.

The Diamondbacks have given up their ace to the San Diego Padres

Ian Kennedy 2013 Stats:

5.23 ERA, 3-8 Record, 108 Strikeouts, 1.42 WHIP

Ian Kennedy has blown up this year for Arizona, but I really don't think moving him was a smart move for the Diamondbacks. Why would you want to trade away your ace who is just having one bad season? Last season he went 15-12 with 187 strikeouts, and in 2011 he went 21-4, with 198 strikeouts. He is a great pitcher, and just not someone you get rid of for one not so impressive season. I can see Kennedy rebounding in 2014, and becoming the Kennedy of old. For San Diego, this is a B+ move, and for Arizona, it is a D- move.

All these players are old faces in new places, and we will be watching to see how the players perform in their new uniforms.

Credits:
MLB Logo:
http://www.cultofandroid.com/25346/mbl-updates-at-bat-and-ballpark-apps-for-2013-opening-day/
Matt Garza Photo:
http://www.rgj.com/usatoday/article/2585533
Alfonso Soriano Photo:
http://riveraveblues.com/2012/01/open-thread-alfonso-soriano-61988/
Brian Wilson Photo:
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/brian-wilsons-filthy-fourth-pitch-drawing-rave-reviews?urn=mlb,wp3780
Brian Wilson ESPN Commercial:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4BO26nqPmM
Jake Peavy Photo:
http://fansided.com/2013/07/23/mlb-trade-rumors-2013-red-sox-cardinals-potential-suitors-for-jake-peavy/
Bud Norris Photo:
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/xcRHXVFVQIy/Houston+Astros+v+Boston+Red+Sox/JtT3PSy_U_A/Bud+Norris
Ian Kennedy Photo:
http://tracking.si.com/2013/06/16/ian-kennedy-suspension/
Info:
http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/depth/_/name/tex/texas-rangers
http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/28528/matt-garza
http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/3993/alfonso-soriano
http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/9522401/brian-wilson-los-angeles-dodgers-agree-deal

http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/stats/_/id/5019/jake-peavy

http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/30369/bud-norris
http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/stats/_/id/28864/ian-kennedy

Brandon Jennings to Pistons, Brandon Knight to Milwaukee

Former Buck Brandon Jennings is headed to Detroit

There have already been many moves in the NBA offseason, but one of the final big names to move is headed to Detroit. Brandon Jennings was part of a sign-and-trade that will send him to Detroit on a three-year, around $25 million deal. The Bucks will receive guard Brandon Knight, big man Viacheslav Kravtsov, and forward Khris Middleton from the Pistons.

Detroit also added an All-Star big man in Josh Smith from the Atlanta Hawks through free agency. Detroit is finally giving it's fans something to be excited about. Don't expect them to be a top team in the Eastern Conference, but these additions should definitely bolster their roster enough to make the playoffs, and once you make the playoffs, anything can happen.

The Detroit Pistons are a young team featuring Josh Smith, Brandon Jennings (Who is only 23 by the way), Greg Monroe, and promising big man Andre Drummond. If their 2013 draft pick in Peyton Siva, and key pieces like Rodney Stuckey and Will Bynum can mature and improve, this could be a promising young team for a few years to come, but they are still in need of one more core, star player to put this team into title contention. The Pistons will be an exciting playoff team, but they probably won't catch anyone off guard or really make any threat towards an NBA Title without some more work.



Credits:

Brandon Jennings Photo:

http://blogs.suntimes.com/sportsprose/2009/12/
Info:
http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/9522945/detroit-pistons-acquire-brandon-jennings-sign-trade-milwaukee-bucks-according-sources

New Nike NFL Uniforms and Logos?

I just threw up in my mouth a little with this new helmet

The Jacksonville Jaguars have recently released what their new uniforms would look like, and I must say, this helmet is absolutely disgusting. It caught my attention fairly quickly because of how ugly it truly is. The black and gold aren't even the same type of paint, and it looks like a total train wreck. A solid gold helmet like this with a logo would be awesome, or even a solid black one with the logo, but a helmet like this is enough to make me sick.

While I'm on the subject of NFL style changes, let me show something else that I think is pretty sad; the new Miami Dolphins logo.

The New 2013 Miami Dolphins logo

Let me first start off by saying, this logo is by no means awful. I just think that it is kinda disappointing they changed logos, because their old logo with the cartoon dolphin and helmet was an awesome logo, personally I thought it was one of the coolest ones in the league. Some NFL logos are boring, but the Dolphins logo was one of my favorite logos in the league, and I think it's a shame that it is gone. Nike buying out Reebok for NFL jerseys has created many differences with jerseys, and I'm sure this is just another one of them. This isn't bad, but I will miss seeing the old Dolphins logo on the helmets. This dolphin looks more like a whale to me, and they are the Miami Dolphins, not the Miami Whales. Doesn't that sound terrible? Miami Whales anyone? No.

There is only one thing that scares me with Nike. That is, that they like to have a bunch of fun with crazy uniforms. Look at Oregon, who never seems to wear the same uniform twice a season. That being said, take a look at these new Oregon uniforms:

These uniforms just do not look good to me

I call these ugly things the Oregon "Sprite jersey". These uniforms literally look like a can of sprite, and to me, that is pretty sad. What happened to the cool designs? Those chrome helmets from the Rose Bowl against Wisconsin were so awesome, but these things are just hideous. This uniform design is ugly, not very creative, and just something I would never want to see a team wearing. I'm sorry, but Nike Pro Combat jerseys have their fair share of amazing and cool uniforms, but these are just far from that.

So what about the NFL? We see these in college, so is it just a matter of time that they will be shown in the NFL? Lets really hope not, because these so called sketches I'm about to show you, make me want to vomit.

Nike Pro Combat NFL Sketches 1

Look at the Bengals sketch

These sketches scare the living crap out of me. Who wants to see the Pittsburgh Steelers or Miami Dolphins looking like the sketches of these pro combat jerseys? Those are AWFUL! Downright ugly, and NFL teams would absolutely not be taken seriously if they took the field in something so awful. I think the Bengals jersey sketch is one of the worst, because even with the tiger print, it just doesn't look as nice as their current uniforms. Even though it was a cool idea, it just doesn't look like it should ever see the field on a Sunday. I will say, those Bills and Patriots uniforms from the first sketch are pretty sweet though. I personally do not think that the NFL should experiment with pro combat uniforms, because some will be good, but others will just be ugly and turns fans off, which is the last thing a major company like Nike would want to do. So will we ever see Nike Pro Combat NFL Uniforms? I sure hope not.

Credits:

Jacksonville Jaguars 2013 New Helmet photo:

http://nesn.com/2013/04/jaguars-officially-unveil-new-uniforms-featuring-two-tone-helmet-new-looks-for-vikings-dolphins-also-leaked-photos/

New Dolphins Logo photo:

http://www.isportstimes.com/articles/6543/20130327/new-dolphins-logo-miami-gets-jersey-helmet.htm

Oregon New Jerseys photo:

http://www.nikeblog.com/2010/12/15/oregon-ducks-national-championship-uniform/

NFL Nike Pro Combat Jersey sketches photo:

http://www.theprovince.com/sports/2012+combat+uniforms+good+Bengals/3856841/story.html

http://ohyoumad.com/the-evolution-of-on-field-freshness-guest-blog/

2013 Big Ten Football Preview

Ohio State is the overwhelming favorite to win the Big Ten in the 2013 season

2012 was an interesting year for the Big Ten conference. It was full of underachievers, and bowl in-eligible overachievers. Who saw Penn State finishing 8-4 in the wake of the Sandusky Scandal, or Northwestern reaching ten wins? These are reasons why teams take the field on Saturday, because teams are not always as good as they are on paper (USC was a strong example of this last year). The Big Ten saw Braxton Miller become a stud, and this year he will be a Heisman Trophy candidate.

 I'll start previewing the 2013 season by first reviewing the 2012 year. The final Big Ten standings were as followed:

Legends Division:
Nebraska: 10-4
Michigan: 8-5
Northwestern: 10-3
Michigan State: 7-6
Iowa: 4-8
Minnesota: 6-7

Leaders Division:
Ohio State: 12-0
Penn State: 8-4
Wisconsin: 8-6
Purdue: 6-7
Indiana: 4-8
Illinois: 2-10

Braxton Miller looks to lead Ohio State in 2013

First off, Legends and Leaders are really stupid division names, and I'm glad to see them gone with the addition of Maryland and Rutgers in 2014. Anyways, There are some obvious things to take away from 2012. The first, Ohio State was very lucky. It took overtime for the Buckeyes to defeat Purdue, with home field advantage, and they also narrowly escaped Madison without a loss to Wisconsin, pulling out a narrow overtime victory against the Badgers. The Buckeyes also failed to show up in other games, beating Cal by only seven, and UAB by only two scores when favored by 35 at home! Ohio State simply will not run the table in 2013.

Michigan State looks to avoid bad luck in 2013

While Ohio State had some luck, Michigan State didn't seem to have any. The Spartans had five losses in conference play in 2012, all of which were decided by four points or less. Michigan State will not be that unfortunate in 2013, as they won't have to play Ohio State, Wisconsin, or Penn State, but will face the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and a highly underrated Northwestern team, both on the road in 2013.

Bill O' Brien leading the Nittany Lions out of the tunnel

The third and final thing I'd like to note, is Bill O'Brien, and his success in his first season at Penn State University. In the wake of the Sandusky Scandal, and the media wrongfully disgracing Joe Paterno, Penn State football was changed completely. The widely respected and great Paterno passed away, leaving his legacy tarnished by one mans evil actions. Penn State was burdened by with heavy sanctions, the most hurtful being the four-year bowl ban.

Happy Valley found it's leaders in Michael Mauti, Matt McGloin, and Bill O' Brien. Nothing was expected of Penn State, but the Lions roared to an 8-4 record, that really was a roller coaster ride from start to finish. Watching Penn State recover is so great, and it is something that State College, Pennsylvania desperately needs.

These were all great stories for 2012, but what does 2013 have in store? First, I will say that I will admit that I'm not a big believer in Ohio State. I mean come on, this team doesn't show up so often that it is exciting to watch their games no matter who they play because they play down to their opponents level, and always try to turn it on, and can't always do it. Though even with that in mind, here's what I think the Leaders division will end up like:

2013 Leaders Final Predictions:
Ohio State
Wisconsin
Penn State
Purdue
Indiana
Illinois

I see Ohio State doing enough to at least make the Big Ten Championship, I mean let's be realistic, Penn State can't play in it, and Wisconsin won't beat Ohio State. Then the Legends division should pan out like this:

2013 Legends Final Predictions:
Michigan State
Nebraska
Northwestern
Michigan
Iowa
Minnesota

Now, this should surprise some of you, but think about it. Michigan State returns 15 starters, and won't play Ohio State or Wisconsin. Most people will be shocked by Michigan fourth, but the Wolverines have Penn State, Michigan State, and Northwestern all on the road, and you throw in a final game against Ohio State, and Michigan is toast.

So this gives you an interesting match-up:

2013 Big Ten Title Game:
Ohio State vs Michigan State

Now depending on records, the winner of this game will for sure be in the Rose Bowl due to the BCS tie-in, or maybe even the winner in the National Title, and the loser in the Rose Bowl. Most people by now must really think I'm hating on Ohio State, but so be it, Michigan State comes away with the win, and becomes Big Ten Champions. This is a little bold, but we will just have to wait until the cleats hit the turf the last week of August. It's going to be an awesome year.



Credits:

Brutus Photo:

http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/ohio-state-football/images/28922114/title/brutus-buckeye-midfield-wallpaper
Braxton Miller Photo:
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-12-06/sports/ct-spt-1207-big-ten-silver-football--20121207_1_big-ten-ohio-state-s-braxton-miller-nebraska-s-taylor-martinez
Spartan Mascot Photo:
http://huskersgameday.com/2011/04/28/big-ten-legends-division-michigan-state-spartans-football-facts/
Bill O' Brien and PSU photo:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1533329-penn-state-football-way-too-early-game-by-game-schedule-predictions-for-2013
*Stats and info taken from Phil Steele's 2013 College Football Preview