Pro Sports Contracts

I am continuously amazed by professional sports contracts. Somehow, someway, Donovan McNabb got a 5-year, $78 million dollar contract extension, WITH $40 MILLION GUARANTEED after a very mediocre season so far. An overreaction by the Redskins front office? I'd say so. They have no young quarterback, so the gave this money to someone that their head coach yanked from the game last week! Unbelievable. How fast do you think his agent agreed to that contract after it was offered?

The NBA might be even worse at this. Teams shell out money for very undeserving players, often when they miss on the people they really want and overpay for lesser players to somehow "salvage" their offseason. Let's take Darko Milicic. He was traded twice, not re-signed by another teams, and then his most recent team gave him $20 million after playing only 32 games last season. I'm baffled, I just don't get it.

Some teams are able to overcome bad contracts, such as the Giants winning a World Series despite Barry Zito's $100 million-plus contract (he wasn't even on San Fran's WS roster!). The Cubs, however, are a team that (much to my delight) are strapped by overpaying certain "talents". $175 million-ish for Soriano and Zambrano? That makes me laugh.

The Unpredictable NFL

Heading into Week 8, many peoples' lock of the week was taking the Jets (-6) to cover the spread versus the Packers. But as those people and many others find out, it's tough to cover a spread when you don't actually score any points. I didn't see this game coming either. I actually nodded off for a while after the Packers went up 3-0 and woke up in the third quarter utterly confused that the game had not changed scores. However, this unpredictability is one of the many reasons Americans love the NFL (England - I'm sorry for what we had to send overseas).

Despite the unpredictability, I'm going to tell you what is going to happen the rest of the season. My preseason picks can be found here, and many of them have different while a select few have remained dead-on. Shall we?

Playoff Teams: Six teams have to make the playoffs from each division, and in the cases of both conferences, I don't think that will match up exactly with the six best teams in each conference.

AFC: I like the Chiefs to pull away and win the West. I think then Chargers have been a disappointment, but will rebound to 8-8 at best. KC looks like an 11-5 team to me, good enough to win the AFC West.

The AFC North should have two teams in the playoffs, those teams being Pittsburgh and Baltimore. Both have looked a little shaky at times, but their above average play is better than many teams' best efforts. Ravens with 12 wins, Steelers 11-5.

The AFC East will be interesting, but I like the Patriots to emerge as division champs at 13-3. They have plenty of weapons on offense to be able to overcome deficiencies on defense. The Jets showed their vulnerabilities against Green Bay, but still should solidify themselves and emerge 11-5.

The AFC South looks like it will only have one team break through into the playoffs, with the winner of tonight's MNF game between the Texans and the Colts having a leg up throughout the rest of the year. The Colts have looked un-Colt-like so far, and I would not be surprised to see them finish at 10-6, but still a game out of the playoffs. Texans at 11-5, Titans at 10-6 as well, and the Jags at 9-7 is how I think the division will end up, but only one team can emerge into the playoffs.

1 seed: Patriots 13-3

2 seed: Ravens 12-4

3 seed: Chiefs 11-5

4 seed: Texans 11-5

5 seed: Jets 11-5

6 seed: Steelers 11-5

Steelers over Chiefs, Jets over Texans in wild-card round

Steelers over Patriots, Ravens over Jets in division round

Epic Steelers vs. Ravens matchup in AFC Championship - Leaning towards Raven still, peaking at right time

Onto the NFC...

North: The Packers lead the division somehow right now at 5-3, and I think will find a way to hold on, duplicating their first half to finish 10-6. I like the Bears to finish 9-7, the Lions to finish an impressive 7-9, and the Vikings to flounder to 7-9 as well.

NFC West: Someone's gotta win this division, and it's certainly not going to be Seattle or Arizona. San Fran could bust out behind Troy Smith, but if that happens I think they are at best 9-7. That could win the division, but I like the Rams to sneak in at 9-7, earning a tiebreaker over the Niners.

NFC South: A crazy division that could end up with both wild card teams. The Buccaneers have surprised everyone, and could parlay their 5-2 start into a 10-6 finish and a postseason birth. New Orleans and Atlanta both look like 10 or 11 win teams, which in the NFC, just might be good enough to make it to the playoffs.

NFC East: I thought all four teams were going to be good, but at this point, I think the Cowboys are done and the Redskins are all but. The Eagles could rebound with Mike Vick in the second half, but I still don't like Andy Reid. The Giants might do the least wrong, and could end up 12-4 and the #1 seed in the NFC.

1 seed: Giants 12-4

2 seed: Atlanta 11-5

3 seed: Green Bay 10-6

4 seed: St. Louis 9-7

5 seed: New Orleans 10-6

6 seed: Tampa Bay 10-6

New Orleans over St. Louis, Green Bay over Tampa Bay in wild card round

NYG over New Orleans, Atlanta over Green Bay in division round

NYG vs Atlanta - I give the edge to NYG here, only bc the game is at home.

Giants vs. Ravens Super Bowl - Matchup of the Kerry Collins vs. Trent Dilfer CLASSIC

Top 10 Teams: The top of the NFL is very AFC top heavy to me at this point.

1. Ravens

2. Patriots

3. Steelers

4. Chiefs

5. Jets

6. Giants

7. Colts

8. Falcons

9. Packers

10. Bucs

Battling for #1 Pick:

Buffalo, Dallas, Carolina, Denver

I'm not sure any of these teams should pick a quarterback #1 overall, despite the pressure to do so. I like a trade in this position. The Bills perhaps, but I actually like them to pull out a few games in the 2nd half. Fitzpatrick has looked competent. Marcel Dareus/Adrian Clayborn/AJ Green could get looks as the #1 overall pick.

Best Sports Times of the Year

In my opinion, the period from mid-October to mid-November is one of the two greatest stretches in the year, as far as sports are concerned. The other stretch would be mid-March to mid-April. Here's why.

Mid-October to Mid-November:

In the fall, you tend to think football, football, football, which is largely true. Right now, we are in the thick of the college football schedule, the middle of the NFL season, and fantasy football teams starting to take real shape. It gives people something to look forward to on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and sporadic Thursdays, and it's pretty much the "water cooler" talk wherever you work. If you're lucky like me and get to watch sports during your job as a sports writer, well then it's even better.

But this period also brings the start of the NBA season, which for the first time in a number of years is actually quite intriguing to me. I'm looking forward to watching the Bucks, specifically seeing Year 2 of Brandon Jennings, how healthy Andrew Bogut looks, and if our new draft picks and acquisitions will fit in and help out as hoped. I'm also curious to see how the Heat will actually perform, see what players make a jump to elite status (Russell Westbrook, Derrick Rose for example), which teams will finally put all the pieces together (Magic, Thunder) and other surprises. It's also good to see which players actually are on each team.

The biggest reason I love this period? The World Series. Screw the TV execs, the Rangers vs the Giants is a Fall Classic I'm definitely excited about. I even called this matchup before the postseason started! Scroll down if you don't believe me. I'm excited to watch the pitching (Lincecum vs. Cliff Lee in games 1, 4 and 7? Sign me up!), Buster Posey, Pablo Sandoval, Josh Hamilton, Vlad Guerrero and whatever is growing in Brian Wilson's beard. If I was a betting man, which I think I should be more of, I'd go with Rangers in 7. Rangers have the better offense, but the Giants have the better pitching to push it to the brink.

March/April:

This period comes down to NCAA conference tournaments and March Madness, but also includes Spring Training/Opening Day in the MLB and the NFL Draft. I go out of my way to watch all three of these things (well, at least the first few games of the Brewers season), which makes this a rival to October/November in my mind.

10 NFL Players to Start a Team Around for the Next 10 Years

Since Aaron Rodgers is still questionable for this weekend's game, it got me to thinking which players are most valuable to their teams. And since I am an avid fantasy football player, I had this idea to try to list the top ten picks in a giant keeper league for the next ten years. Only this league isn't fantasy and all about stats, but rather about building a team around. They players need to be relatively young and quite good, and play a position of vital importance (punters need not apply).

(These aren't ranked, just the ten best in my mind.)

Aaron Rodgers - In only his third season as a starter, Rodgers has a ton of knowledge and ability without a lot of miles on his odometer. There's a reason that quarterbacks are so often taken number one in the NFL Draft, to be a foundation to build a team around. Rodgers appears to be the best of that bunch, so he definitely belongs in this list. He's already 26, but many quarterbacks have found success through their mid thirties.

Adrian Peterson - Adrian Peterson is already 25, and it's a well known fact that many running backs can drop off the face of the earth after they hit 30 (Willie Parker, Edge James, Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson, etc.). Peterson has proven to be a talent above and beyond the names on this list, and has at least 4-5 elite years ahead of him.

Chris Johnson - Having just turned 24, Chris Johnson has a leg up age-wise and skill-wise on AD in my opinion. He's fast and has a swagger, two things that can't be taught.

Sam Bradford/Matt Ryan - Two former very high draft picks who have actually panned out so far, and appear headed towards elite status for the next decade, and would be very easy to build a team around.

Joe Thomas - The best of the young left tackle bunch which also includes Ryan Clady and Jake Long. The anchor of pass protection and the running game, left tackles are a great place to start building a team around.

Darrelle Revis/Patrick Willis/Ndamakong Suh - The three best at their positions are all viable options to start a defensive-minded team around. Shutdown corner, captain middle linebacker, or double-team commanding pass rusher, you can't go wrong with any of these three choices here.

October Baseball

Goodbye productivity, hello MLB postseason! I'll admit, I haven't payed too much attention to the end of the regular season, because to me it seemed like the playoff teams were pretty much decided. (If you will recall this post, I had the 8 teams predicted correctly. So what if Wild Card/Division Winners were flip-flopped. I was 8 for 8. Boo ya.) Now that the postseason has finally started, I'll definitely be watching. I love that they have day games almost every day, considering I sit around my apartment during the day, and then when I have to work I can still watch the games! Anywho, I am going to change my predictions, based on what I've seen and what my gut is telling me.

Rays vs. Rangers

I like the pitching duel of David Price against Cliff Lee, but I'm going to have to go with Cliff Lee on this one. He's been traded around so much, that nothing really can feel like home so he won't be rattled pitching on the road, and the Trop isn't too intimidating of a park. The Rangers lineup is absolutely stacked, and I don't really care if the team doesn't have playoff experience. Vlad Guerrero does, Cliff Lee does, Bengie Molina does. Michael Young is experienced enough that the playoffs won't rattle him. Plus they have Josh Hamilton, which the Rays don't have. I like this game to go to 5, but I like the Rangers.

Twins vs. Yankees

The Twins are a perennial playoff team, but it would be a stretch to say that they are perennial contenders. They seem to always run into the Bronx Bombers, who I like in this matchup for another year. I like the Yankees pitching a lot better, plus the Twins could use a bat like Morneau in their lineup. The Twins will win the first game at Target Field, but that's about it. Yanks in 4.

Reds vs. Phillies

I'm pulling for the Reds to win the World Series, because I like that they are in our division. I don't hate them, which surprises me, plus I like many of the players they have, plus Dusty Baker. Joey Votto deserves the NL MVP, I like Jay Bruce, and this Chapman guy can apparently throw pretty fast. With that said, they did emerge from a division that featured Pittsburgh, Houston, the Cubs, and (alas) the Brewers. I don't think win more than one game against the Halladay/Oswalt/Hamels tro. Phillies in 4.

Giants vs. Braves

The Braves are the other team I like, especially Jason Heyward and Bobby Cox. But I know that October comes down to pitching, which is why I like the Giants more. It looks like they are going to start Lincecum/Matt Cain/Jonathan Sanchez, which is very solid for the NL. Plus then they have Barry Zito and Madison Bumgarner to use when needed, plus Brian Wilson as the crazy closer. Plus, I'm not betting against the Kung Fu Panda and a guy named Buster. Giants in 5.

I'll elaborate more once the LCS matchups are decided, but right now I'm leaning towards Rangers over Yankees in 6, and Giants over Phillies in 7. I like pitching.

Now...back to Tampa Bay/Texas game one. Cheers to unproductivity!

NFC North through 3 weeks

To me, the NFC North had some of the most interesting story lines coming into the 2010 season. For the most part, I'd say that the division has lived up to the hype. I think we've learned a lot through three weeks, culminating with last night's MNF matchup between the Packers and the Bears.

1) The only people really capable of beating the Packers are themselves. I mean, 18 penalties? Are you kidding me? We had penalties that negated key first downs, took points off the board, and nullified turnovers. And yet we were still in the game, and probably should have beaten a solid Chicago team. One thing that the Packers can do great is pass the ball, without a doubt. If we can get some resemblance of a running game established (Marshawn Lynch, perhaps?) and become more disciplined on defense (rookies, personal fouls), we'll be just fine. I can really only see us losing three more games; one of the Minnesota games, at New England, and maybe either at Atlanta or at the New York Jets. I think we'll right the ship at be sitting at 5-1 heading into Week 7 versus Ol' Brent.

2) The Bears are good. They aren't great, but they don't suck. Jay Cutler has been lucky at times this season, but sometimes it's better to be lucky than good. Matt Forte seems to be bouncing back from his sophomore slump, and Greg Olsen seems to have developed a go-to relationship with Cutler. Devin Hester has found his explosiveness again, but I don't completely trust that o-line or the other skill position players. Julius Peppers does scare me however, as does a rejuvenated Brian Urlacher. The Bears could very easily be 1-2, but sit at 3-0. The Bears have a brutal second half of the season, and could easily, easily finish 9-7 - or worse.

3) The Vikings won a game! Wahoo! They are damn lucky they have Adrian Peterson. Brett Favre already has 6 interceptions, and the next four games (@NYJ, Dallas, @GB, @NE) are against four probable playoff teams. Favre is looking at Darrelle Revis, DeMarcus Ware, Clay Matthews and Bill Belichick in the next month. Good thing they have their off week right now. Your 6-10 Vikings, anyone? (And no, I'm not biased. Congrats on beating Detroit.)

4) The Lions will be feisty. Jahvid Best is really looking like a steal at the end of the first round, making plays and giving Detroit a playmaker. They should have beaten Chicago, hung right with Philly, and then fell on the road to a desperate Vikings team. And this is all with Shaun Hill behind center. I'm backing off the Lions going 9-7, but they look like they should win 5-6 games once Stafford comes back. The defensive line is solid (if not downright dirty) and will improve as the season progresses. Will the Lions make the playoffs? No. But they could very much play spoiler, particularly against the Vikes in Week 17.

The Best Players in the Division (according to me, so far in 2010)

1) Adrian Peterson - Carrying the Minnesota offense

2) Julius Peppers - Worth the money to that Chicago defense

3) Aaron Rodgers - Dangerous with weapons at his disposal

4) Clay Matthews - Playmaker.

5) Calvin Johnson - Still bitter about the Week 1 no-catch.

Projected Season Standings:

1) Green Bay 12-4

2) Chicago 9-7

3) Minnesota 7-9

4) Detroit 5-11

Television Thoughts

I can't sleep, so I watched a few episodes of "The Sopranos" season 2 that I have from the library. Which, by the way is incredible - both the library and "The Sopranos". I watch TV seasons like it's my job, having plowed through multiple seasons of "The Sopranos", "Breaking Bad", "How I Met Your Mother", "The Big Bang Theory", "Friday Night Lights", and those are just off the top of my head. I've discovered how much I love television, and why television has become what movies were to the 1990s and prior.

The Sopranos and HBO (btw, I'm done with the quotes for this post. I'm not even sure TV series go in quotes...do you know Andrea?) can take responsibility for this one, turning weekly TV into must see appointment television. TV shows are something people are paying for already and you can do it from the comfort of your own home, and now on your own schedule with the advent of DVR. People don't have to justify spending over $20 for two people to go to a movie, they can just turn on the TV. Half-hour or hour shows also fit into our "busy" schedules easier, and give you something to talk about with fellow watchers as well as something to look forward to for a whole week.

There are some shows out there that anyone who watches it feels obligated to talk about it. I'm looking at you Mad Men. I watched Season 1 right after it came out on DVD (thank you La Crosse Public Library) and then tried to get into Season 2 but I couldn't. With the rave reviews Season 3 and 4 are getting, I would like to catch up, but I feel like I have to go out of my way to avoid spoilers.

I don't really know where I'm going with this, other than to say that there is an abundance of good TV shows out there, some of which are no longer on the air, and some of which I tried watching but couldn't get into for whatever reason (The Wire). I'm going to list a few shows I've thoroughly enjoyed, as well as how far I've watched in the series, and why you need to be watching them.

1. Friday Night Lights - up to date (Seasons 1-4)

-The most realistic characters of any show I've ever watched. I've never played a down of organized football, nor have I ever been to Texas, but I feel like I know a Eric and Tami Taylor, a Matt Saracen, a Smash Williams, and a Tim Riggins in my life.

2. Breaking Bad - through the first two seasons

-Very smart show. Bryan Cranston's character is book smart beyond belief, and grows more and more street smart as the series progresses. Aaron Paul is deserving of his most recent Emmy, playing a conflicted drug addict/dealer who is incredibly believable on screen.

3. Sons of Anarchy - halfway through season 2

-Katey Segal makes this show, as it delves into a world that 99.9% have no idea about. Biker gangs in California sounds like a great action concept, but it's the internal conflict of the main characters that is the most gripping.

4. Top Chef - up to date on current season

-Best reality show on television, because it requires smart individuals who are creative and immensely talented. I feel cultured watching it, I learn about food, and it's relatively dramatic television.

5. How I Met Your Mother/The Big Bang Theory

-Funny sitcoms that are kind of similar, dealing with 20-somethings living in the big city. Similar to Friends, the ensemble casts provide many story lines that are engaging, topical, relatively mindless, and great to crank out back-to-back-to-back on DVD.

6. Arrested Development/Freaks and Geeks - whole series

-Two series that received high critical reviews that apparently couldn't cut it in the ratings. It's a shame, as both are fantastic shows that deserved longer runs.

I would also like to add that I love The Office, Entourage, and It's Always Sunny, but I feel like everyone knows about all of those already.

I know this has nothing to do with sports. I just felt like writing about something else. If you actually made it this far, I love you.

Big College Football on 9/11

First and foremost, today is really all about remembering what happened nine years ago today and giving thanks for all of the blessings that you have in your life. Never forget those who selflessly sacrificed and for those who lost their lives on 9/11.

Today is a big day in college football all over the country as well. Many intriguing nonconference matchups all over the board, and I'm looking forward to tuning in and seeing American flags flying high.

Florida State vs. Oklahoma

- I like the Sooners in this matchup, but don't be shocked to see FSU putting up quite a fight. Mark Stoops, defensive coordinator for the Seminoles, might have a trick up his sleeve on how to defend his older brother Bob's potent offensive duo of QB Landry Jones and RB DeMarco Murray

Miami vs. Ohio State

-I'm really pulling for the Hurricanes here, mostly due to my hatred of Ohio State and partially to avenge the Willis McGahee knee debacle. I really like how QB Jacory Harris has matured in his career in Coral Gables, and I think Terrelle Pryor might by star-gazing in search of "pal" LeBron James at the Shoe.

Penn State vs. Alabama

-No Mark Ingram, no problem. Penn State has a solid football team, but not good enough to take down the best team in the country in Alabama. JoePa is an icon, but Nick Saban might be the best college football coach in the land.

Iowa vs. Iowa State

-Upset special? Don't think so. QB Ricky Stanzi and the Hawkeyes should be just fine.

Notre Dame vs. Michigan

-You probably know that this is the game that my eyes will be glued to this afternoon. RichRod and the Wolverines come into South Bend for Dayne Crist and head coach Brian Kelly's real first test, and I'm not extremely confident in their abilities just yet. I like what I've seen out of the ND offense, especially Armando Allen and Crist's grasp of the spread, but Michigan has an athletic QB in Denard Robinson that will test the Irish defense. I predict a game in the high 20s, with hopefully the Irish prevailing 27-24.

MLB Thoughts Down the Stretch

While I hate to admit that the Brewers are out of things down the stretch, there have been some things to encourage Milwaukee fans in September. The play of Lorenzo Cain, Casey McGehee's solid season, solid starts by Narveson and Capuano, and the Trevor Hoffman 600 save saga. They still have work to do in the offseason to contend in the NL next year, but there are things to be encouraged by heading into 2011.

With this post, I'd like to shift my focus of teams I like and talk about story lines that I've been excited by this season. In no particular order...

1. The Atlanta Braves

I really really like Jason Heyward, possibly because he's pretty much my age, but largely because he's an outstanding talent that plays the game the right way. As I write this, the Braves sit a half-game behind the Phillies for the NL East league, and I really hope they overtake Philly for a few reasons: 1) I don't like the Phillies and 2) I want Atlanta to succeed in Bobby Cox's last hurrah.

2. The Texas Rangers

An exciting team that has all the ability in the world on their team with the likes of Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, Ian Kinsler, Cliff Lee, Neftali Feliz, etc. They have the biggest division lead of any team in the big leagues, and I'm excited to see this team return to the postseason. The feel good story is the re-emergence of Vlad Guerrero, and frankly how he's raked this season and is a definite candidate for AL MVP.

3. Joey Votto and Carlos Gonzalez

The Triple Crown talk is nice and exciting, but the only way that it is going to happen is if CarGo stays on his HR tear and overtakes Pujols. Regardless, these two players were young talents that have exploded into bona fide superstars in the league, and as an NL guy myself, I'm excited to see these players come to Miller Park for years to come, and perhaps earn the Brewers home-field advantage by helping the NL in the all-star game.

4. Surprise Guys

Jose Bautista sits on the league lead for homers at 43, seven ahead of Pujols. I've never really heard of this guy before this year, but I snagged him on my fantasy team and he's carried me into the playoffs. Mat Latos is a surprise leading the NL in ERA, especially considering the elite talent (Halladay, Lincecum, Carpenter) in the National League.

Predictions for the Postseason

AL Division Winners:

Minnesota Twins (Central)

Texas Rangers (West)

New York Yankees (East)

Tampa Bay Rays - Wild Card

NL Division Winners:

Cincinnati Reds (Central)

Atlanta Braves (East)

San Francisco Giants (West)

Philadelphia Phillies - Wild Card

ALCS - Rays over Twins

NLCS - Braves over Reds

World Series: Rays over Braves in 6

NL MVP: Joey Votto, Reds

AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers

NL Cy Young: Mat Latos, Padres

AL Cy Young: David Price, Rays

NL ROY: Jason Heyward, Braves

AL ROY: Neftali Feliz, Rangers

NFL Thoughts and General Ramblings

So the NFL season is days away, and I was reminded recently that I have not made a blog post for quite some time. I apologize. I really have no good excuse for this, but I feel like putting down my thoughts on the NFL divisions on "paper" before the season starts (so everyone will know what a genius I am when they all come true).

Here are my picks for Division winners, standings, playoff teams, MVP, so on and so forth:

AFC North

1. Ravens (12-4)

2. Steelers (10-6)

3. Bengals (9-7)

4. Browns (4-12)

Like most people, I really like the Ravens this year. Much of it has to do with my man-crush on Ray Rice, but I also really like the upgrade at WR with Boldin and Houshmazilly to complement Flacco's maturation into a very good NFL quarterback. I think 4,000 yards is a lock for Flacco, with this being the year that the identity of the Ravens shifts from defense to offense.

I actually like Dennis Dixon at QB for Pittsburgh, which is why I think they'll be fine through their bye-week. I think Mendenhall will be very solid as well, assuming he can stay healthy as well. I actually think they'll start 3-1, then drop two of Big Ben's first three starts. They'll rally back for 10 wins and be in the playoff hunt down the stretch.

Cincy's defense could become the strength of their team, but I'm not a huge fan of the intangible components that their team has. Unless Carson Palmer turns into a more vocal leader of the offense, they could be undermined by 85 and TO.

The Browns will still suck. I don't like Jerome Harrison or Jake Delhomme.

AFC East

1. Jets (12-4)

2. Patriots (11-5)

3. Dolphins (9-7)

4. Bills (3-13)

Despite their bravado, the Jets have unquestionably the most pure talent in the division. Revis won't miss a beat, and with Antonio Cromartie on the other side, it will be tough for opposing offenses. Sanchez won't need to be great, which is good because I don't think he will be. I think the Jets will need Tomlinson more than they think, but I think he does have enough left in the tank to make the offense dynamic.

The Patriots are solid, as always, and will secure one of the wildcard berths. I really like the Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez additions to an already potent passing attack, but I'm not sure I like the 4-back committee carrying the ball.

Dolphins are ok. Chad Henne makes progress, with help from Brandon Marshall. Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams are legit, but aren't world beaters.

The Bills are terrible.

AFC South

1. Colts (12-4)

2. Titans (10-6)

3. Houston (9-7)

4. Jacksonville (5-11)

Until you can give me a reason that the Colts won't go 12-4, then they have the AFC South wrapped up.

The Titans and Texans are both formidable in the division, but both I think are a few pieces away from being really good. If VY and CJ2K both have career years, then it could be a very tough offense to contain. Schaub needs to stay healthy, and with question marks in the backfield, Houston just screams 9-7 to me.

Someone has to lose to all these teams, and for me that's the Jaguars.

AFC West

1. Chargers (10-6)

2. Chiefs (8-8)

3. Raiders (8-8)

4. Broncos (4-12)

Don't really like any of these team, which is why I think the top three will be pretty bunched together. I like Jamaal Charles and Jason Campbell to be the breakout players in this division, but I am not huge fans of either of their teams. I'm not as high on Ryan Mathews as everyone else, but the Chargers still have Darren Sproles, Philip Rivers, and Antonio Gates.

I think Tebow will not start a game this season. With nothing to play for the last few weeks, I can see him getting a lot of live looks to give Denver fans hope for next year.

NFC North

1. Packers (13-3)

2. Vikings (9-7)

3. Lions (8-8)

4. Bears (6-10)

Maybe a little personal bias here, but I do really like the Packers this season. I think Ryan Grant will have a great year with many defenses keying in on A-Rodge and the Packers offense.

I think the Lions are legit. They have playmakers all over their offense (Stafford, Jahvid Best, Calvin Williams, Brandon Pettigrew) and their defense is much, much improved as well.

The 2009 Vikings were a perfect storm, with the play of Favre, the emergence of Sidney Rice, and the dominance of the defensive line. With the first two of these in serious question, so are the Vikings playoff chances. Don't get me wrong, they'll be solid. I think they have the talent of a 11-5 team but will fall short at 9-7.

The Bears don't really warrant my attention. Matt Forte will bounce back, but I still don't like Jay Cutler.

NFC East

1. Redskins (9-7)

2. Eagles (8-8)

3. Cowboys (8-8)

4. Giants (7-9)

I think McNabb will have a serious chip on his shoulder, and with a competent coach behind him, the Redskins should emerge from a deep, deep division. He has recievers (Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas) that should make a jump this year, and hopefully Haynesworth will be around to stable that defense.

I love Kevin Kolb this year, so much so that I haven't gone through a fantasy draft without getting him. I think 4,000 yards are a lock. I heard the comparison of him to Aaron Rodgers two years ago, and those comparisons make perfect sense.

I'm not really high on the Cowboys, or at least as high as everyone else. I just don't trust Tony Romo, and I don't think he has the receiving corp to make him great. I don't think Miles Austin is elite, and I think Dez Bryant will be great in the future but he is just a rookie.

Someone has to finish last, and unfortunately that is New York. Eli is the only QB in the division with a ring, but somehow he looks like the worst of the four to me heading into this season. I am high on Ahmad Bradshaw, because I think Brandon Jacobs could be on his way out, which is a HUGE mistake. They are the epitome of thunder and lighting, and could be really effective for the G-Men.

NFC South

1. Saints (12-4)

2. Falcons (10-6)

3. Panthers (7-9)

4. Buccaneers (4-12)

The defending champs are who we think they are, a dynamic offense led by a true gamer in Drew Brees.

The Falcons are definitely good enough to make the playoffs in the NFC, led by a QB who I can see making a jump this year. Matt Ryan has a legit #1 in Roddy White, and is bolstered by a running attack that will garner the respect of d-coordinators league wide. Plus, the ageless Tony Gonzalez is a great security blanket.

I like Jonathan Stewart, but that's really about it in Carolina. I just hope Jimmy Clausen gets some PT come winter.

Josh Freeman gives TB some hope, but in the end, they still suck.

NFC West

1. 49ers (9-7)

2. Cardinals (8-8)

3. Seahawks (6-10)

4. Rams (6-10)

I really like Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis to help Alex Smith evolve into a competent NFL quarterback, And most of all, I really like Frank Gore. He's pudgy and just adorable.

I think the Cardinals fall off a little bit this year, and will really miss Kurt Warner. Derek Anderson is not a long term answer, and neither was Matt Leinart for that matter.

Not much that I like about the Seahawks, other than Leon Washington and (hopefully) Golden Tate. I think Matt Hasselbeck is getting too old, and I really hate Pete Carroll.

Rams will show fight, but not ready to make the jump yet. Bradford will be a strong candidate for Rookie of the Year.

Playoff Teams

AFC: Ravens, Steelers (WC), Jets, Patriots (WC), Colts, Chargers

AFC Championship: Ravens over Steelers

NFC: Packers, Vikings (WC) Redskins, Saints, Falcons (WC) 49ers

NFC Championship: Saints over Packers

Super Bowl: Saints over Ravens

I think by not picking the Ravens, Packers, Steelers, or Colts to win, like everyone else seems to be, I think I'm actually going out on a limb. I know how difficult it is to repeat, but I really don't think 2009 was a fluke.

MVP: Drew Brees

Defensive MVP: Darrelle Revis

Rookie of the Year: Jahvid Best

The Home Run

I tend to find myself a bit of a baseball purist. I enjoy a good pitching duel. One of the best games I've ever seen in person was a 1-0 ten inning game between the Brewers and the Phillies back in 2008. That's also why I'm a bigger fan of the National League. I like the strategy of pinch hitting, pinch running, managing a bullpen, and so on. But one thing that never is lost on me is the home run.

I became the baseball fan that I am, like many others close to my age, in the summer of 1998. My allegiances were with the Brewers, but I found myself more interested in two of their division rivals, the Cardinals and the Cubs. The duel that Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa had during the dog days of that summer will stay with me forever.

Yeah, the names of McGwire, Sosa, Canseco, Palmiero, Bonds, Rodriguez and so on have had a shadow cast over them by the clouds that are steroids, andro, the cream, the clear, and HGH. But is there really anything more exciting in sports than a dramatic home run? I argue no.

A-Rod still had intense media pressure on him to go from #599 to #600, and he admitted that he was pressing. He eventually got it off the Jays' Shaun Marcum, and he'll get a relieve until he gets until #700. He's in great shape, and I see no reason why he won't get there. Hell, I see no reason why he won't get to #800. Even with his name tied to performance enhancing drugs, he'll still get all of the media coverage that Craig Counsell would get if he was approaching the all-time milestones.

What I'm saying here is that the glorification of the home run is still superior to the clout of PEDs. Sure, the New York Post can put all the asterisks they want on their headlines, but like it or not, it's still a headline. I do think that all of these players should make the Hall of Fame, but also need to have a disclaimer on their plaques stating "This player admitted to the use of performance-enhancing drugs during the course of their career" or something like that.

The only player that is 30 or older that has a shot at the top of the career home run leaderboard is Albert Pujols, who seems to be baseball's saving grace during the steroid era. Everybody wants to believe that he is clean, and the consistency over the course of his career, different than the peaks that McGwire/Sosa/Bonds had.

The younger generation of baseball? That's a different story. There are so many talented young players with plenty of power who will be climbing the ranks over the next decade. This group is led by the likes of Ryan Braun and Evan Longoria, but also include Joey Votto, Jason Heyward, Buster Posey, Bryce Harper and more. These players already have plenty of pop in their bat, and considering many of them are still in their early 20s (and late teens), its very conceivable that these players' bodies could fill out, add even more power, and continue mashing late into their careers.

Is the worst of the steroid era over? I'd say so. But to me, nothing will tarnish the incredible feat that is the home run. I don't think Bonds's record will last forever, much less 20 more years.

(BTW, 2 posts in one day? I'm pretty proud of myself)

Finally got the internet hooked up...have you heard the news about Favre?

So I've recently put a new roof over my head, after being homeless for the better part of two weeks. I think I slept in seven different beds, one of those being the front seat of my car, in ten days. Over the course of that time, I've had ideas for a number of different blog posts. However, you can imagine that I didn't exactly have a reliable internet connection, so most of those ideas I've either forgotten or aren't really applicable anymore. The one thing I do want to ramble about is Brett Favre. I'm not really sure exactly how I feel about this situation, but I'll start writing and see where I end up.

I really don't see Favre as the diva/egomaniac type that he sometimes gets portrayed as. It wasn't only Packers fans that could see his excitement and passion for the game, whether it is booking it upfield after tossing a long TD to Andre Rison in Super Bowl XXXI or throwing snowballs at a referee. We knew he loved the game. Since his starts streak began in 1992 through about 2006, He was absolutely beloved by Wisconsin and the nation.

2007 was when things began to sour. Sure, the Packers had a great 13-3 season but the interception he threw against the Giants was the sign for Packers Nation that they needed to part ways with #4. The retirement that followed the season should have been his walk off into the sunset. He had a great season, retired with little shame, and would be revered and deified around Wisconsin, Mississippi, and most of the country for the rest of his life. However, I think Favre felt like the Packers were forcing him out. I wouldn't say that he was forced out by Ted Thompson and Co., but it was clear to them, and to most logical fans, that the Packers needed to go in a different direction. When Favre asked for his release and Thompson wouldn't give it to him, things definitely went sour.

I honestly think that the 2008 season was an eff-you to the Packers front office. He went to play with the Jets, basically to show Green Bay that he still could. After that season, he really was ready to retire and would have done so had Darrell Bevell not come calling. The two had worked together in Green Bay from 2003-05, so they had a relationship that Favre had with very few other people still working in the NFL. That, combined with the fact that the Vikings had a very solid roster, was the reason Favre came back in 2009. I don't think last year was a stick-it-to-the-Packers year at all.

2010: Favre's banged up, his mind wants to play, but for the first time in his life his body may not be able to. He feels loyal to his teammates, as the Vikings are revving up for one of their most promising seasons in history. He wants to be a part of that. And for the first time, he's realizing he might not be able to. I certainly believe that he'd play if he's healthy. I also believe that it's not about the money. He could have so much fun on an explosive offense with a suffocating defense that will get him the ball even more.

Do I think he needs to walk away? Absolutely. Images of Favre not being able to be the gunslinger that he once was would make Packers fans initially happy, but would taint the image they have of him running down the field at the Superdome, smiling and showing his braces to the world, happy as can be. They don't want to see the silver-haired man grimacing after every throw. Brett, I understand the end of your career. But it's really time to call it quits right now.

Value of Current Brewers

With all the trade talk surrounding Prince Fielder and Corey Hart, it got me to thinking this question: Which players are most valuable to the Brewers right now? I'm thinking about which players are going to be the core for the future, the players that they want to build around from 2011 on. I took into account the current roster, as well as a few of their top prospects (I essentially looked at their 40-man roster).

The Top 10

1. Ryan Braun

2. Yovani Gallardo

3. Rickie Weeks

4. Corey Hart

5. Mat Gamel

6. Brett Lawrie

7. Alcides Escobar

8. Casey McGehee

9. Carlos Gomez

10. John Axford

This kind of tells you what direction I think the Brewers are heading. I do think we need to unload Prince Fielder at some point, for someone that can compete/develop into a #1 or solid #2 pitcher, much like what Yovani Gallardo is right now. If you look at the list and ask yourself, would I rather have Player A or Player B for the next 5 years, I went with who I would pick and ranked them ahead. Using this concept, that is saying that I'd rather have Casey McGehee for the next 5 years than Carlos Gomez.

Braun is the obvious #1, followed by Gallardo at #2. The next three are tough, but I think Rickie Weeks is coming into his own as a second baseman with some power, Gamel has shown flashes, and I think Corey Hart will be serviceable for years to come.

Brett Lawrie cracks the list at #6, even though he hasn't played a major league game yet. He is leading our AA affiliate, and will be up in the major leagues soon enough. It's still uncertain where his future lies on defense, but he could be a 2B like he is in the minors if Rickie is shifted to the outfield.

Escobar is going to be our SS for years to come, and I think McGehee will have a role with this team too, due to his versatility. Gomez will develop into a solid National League centerfielder, just as Axford has shown that he can close out games for the Crew.

Hopeful lineup for 2011 Opening Day, assuming we trade Fielder for pitching:

1. Gomez - CF

2. Weeks - 2B

3. Hart - RF

4. Braun - LF

5. Gamel - 3B

6. McGehee - 1B

7. Lucroy? - C

8. Escobar - SS

9. Pitcher

Bench: Joe Inglett, George Kottaras, Lorenzo Cain, (Lawrie brought up at some point)

Rotation: Gallardo, Jonathan Sanchez (trade), Randy Wolf, Manny Parra, Bush/Capuano/Narveson

Bullpen: Coffey, Stetter, Loe (set-up), Axford

NBA Eastern Conference Power Rankings

I wanted to avoid the whole LeBron situation, but I just can't. I will take a slightly different angle, creating my power rankings for the Eastern Confernce (nothing big has happened in the West). I also want to go on record saying that the Miami Heat will absolutely not win the title in 2010-11.

The East

Top 3

Orlando - I think this is the year that Dwight Howard develops a little bit of an edge. He doesn't really have a peer in the Eastern Conference. Joakim Noah will put up a fight, Andrew Bogut will challenge when healthy, and Amare Stoudemire doesn't believe in defense. The key for the Magic may be resigning JJ Redick, because I can see him being a crucial component to a deep team.

Boston - They remain in the conversation until proven otherwise. KG is entering his twilight years, but Boston has a very solid assortment of big men to give The Big Ticket plenty of rest. Pierce and Allen were important to re-sign, Rondo will look to stay in the upper echelon of active point guards but it's going to be how the role players and subs (Tony Allen, Nate Robinson, Glen Davis, Avery Bradley, Luke Harangody) complement the Big Three that determine how far this team will go.

Miami - I'm going to call the 2010-11 Heat the LeDwyosh experiment. Will DWade and LeBron really be able to check their egos at the door? Will Bosh be better by osmosis? They are going to need a few things from their minimum contracts: a veteran point guard, a consistent 3-point threat, and a center who can play defense and shoot free throws.

Side note: LeBron is not the alpha dog on this team by any means. That player is Dwyane Wade. He'll be the one taking the shot at the end of the 4th quarter. I guarantee this.

Next 3

Chicago - They would have been phenomenal with LeBron, but they aren't too shabby how they currently sit. I can see Derrick Rose making a jump this year (hard to believe how good he might be), and the front line of Luol Deng, Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah is quite talented. Underrated part of the Bulls? Signing Kyle Korver and possibly JJ Redick. Deadly 3-point shooting is always a plus.

Milwaukee - Don't want to be a homer, but the Bucks were phenomenal in their off-season moves, and that doesn't even include the draft. We added a complement to Bogut in the post (Gooden), added a solid 6th/7th man (Maggette) and re-signed our leader from the postseason (Salmons). If Jennings avoids a sophomore slump and Bogut comes back at the level he was at last year, the Bucks will not only be a playoff team but a solid contender in the East.

Atlanta - Joe Johnson received the most money of any free agent this off-season. He led his team to a second-round sweep. Atlanta is solid, but won't be great any time soon.

Fringe Playoff Teams

Cleveland - It's hard to imagine the Cavaliers without LeBron. It will be interesting to see if they can get any decent free agents, or if they'll have to play with the "complementary" parts that they have that are used to playing second fiddle. Mo Williams, Antawn Jamison and an aging Shaq as your core? That screams 8th seed to me.

Charlotte - I don't know. They didn't add anyone in the draft. (Literally, no one.) A few talented pieces. Could be a repeat of their first-round sweep last year.

Knicks - Adding Amar'e sure helps, but then again they lost David Lee. Gallinari looks promising, and I like the addition of Anthony Randolph. But a team with Raymond Felton as your only point guard? I'm not sure.

World Cup Thoughts

I'm glad Brazil got eliminated. My whole life, I've hated really good teams. I despised the Bulls, hate the Yankees, can't stand the Patriots. Brazil kind of feels the same way to me. Sure, I can respect Jordan, Jeter, Brady, and Kaka, but I sure as hell don't want them hoisting a trophy. I think no matter what happens from here on out in the World Cup, I'll be pleased.

Uruguay: Wow. Improbable? Sure. Luck? A little bit. However, Uruguay has seemed composed the entire tournament. Diego Forlan is resurrecting the storied history of soccer in this South American nation, and he's probably the player that will benefit most from his performance in South Africa. He'll land a high price transfer to an EPL squad most likely. Anywho, I really like their chances against Netherlands.

Netherlands: Congratulations on beating Brazil. Wesley Sneijder has played admirably. Dirk Kuyt is a stabilizing force in the midfield. They are going to need a spark to get past Uruguay, but don't count the Dutch out. I can easily see them turning up the heat in the semifinals.

Germany: A surprising offensive juggernaut, but they have the players in place who know how to finish. Led by Klose and Podolski, the Germans have to be the favorites from here on out. Manuel Neuer has also been spectacular in net.

Spain: Riding David Villa's heroics for most of the tournament has propelled the Spaniards into the semifinals. Does their run end here? Perhaps. Iker Casillas has come up big time and time again to keep opponents off of the scoreboard, but can he, Puyol, Pique and the rest of the Spanish defense contain the bloodthirsty German forwards? I'm hoping they can. If Fernando Torres and Andres Iniesta can give Villa some support up top, look for Spain to push through to the finals.

Predictions:

Netherlands 2, Uruguay 1

Spain 3, Germany 2

We'll see how my predictions hold up after this week's matches.

Identity of the 2010-11 Milwaukee Bucks

The only news seeming to pop up about the Milwaukee Bucks of recently is seemingly good news. So many (hopefully) good acquisitions via trade and free agency leave the Bucks with lots of talent and a limited number of roster slots. This post is mostly for me to try to figure out in my mind who will be on the Bucks 15-man roster, 12 of which are active slots. I'm no GM (but I do play one on TV). I know Johnny Hammond and Scotty Skiles will make the right calls when it comes down to it.

Locks (who return from last season)

PG Brandon Jennings

SG John Salmons

G/F Carlos Delfino

F Ersan Ilyasova

F Luc Richard Mbah a Moute

C Andrew Bogut

Ok that's 6. Half of the active roster.

Locks (Draft picks or new acquisitions)

F Larry Sanders

F Drew Gooden

F Corey Maggette

G Chris Douglas-Roberts

F Tiny Gallon

Ok, we're up to 11. That leaves us a few more slots. Here are some options.

G Luke Ridnour - I'm definitely an advocate to resign Ridnour. We need some veteran guards, and I really like the idea of Luke running our second team.

G/F Darington Hobson - Might see some time in the NBDL, which is a better option that stashed on the inactive roster. Like his potential, and he should see minutes....in 2012.

C Kurt Thomas - Played admirably down the stretch last season, but would have to accept a minimal role. I'd love to have him, but I can see him getting poached by a contender.

C Jerome Jordan - Probably going to be traded for picks or cash, which I'm ok with.

Primoz Brezec/Royal Ivey/Darnell Jackson - One or all or whatever if we have room.

This brings us to Michael Redd. The best thing he's got going for him is his expiring contract. The only way he sees time in our rotation is if he accepts a role off the bench. His style of play doesn't fit in with the winning basketball the Bucks played last season to get them into the playoffs. I can see us keeping him for a while, only to deal him towards the deadline for picks or a pair of socks.

So in my mind, our starting 5 is Jennings, Salmons, Delfino, Gooden, and Bogut. I like Maggette as the matchup guy/6th man, leading the second team which also consists of Ridnour at point, CDR at the 2, and Ilyasova and Mbah a Moute at the forwards slots. Larry Sanders and Tiny Gallon will get worked into the rotation when they are ready, which hopefully will be soon. I like our team with zero production from our draft picks, so anything we get from them this season is all gravy, baby.

Rapid Reaction - US Men's Soccer

I got the feeling the entire game that the US was going to break through at some point. They were the better team, thoroughly outplayed Algeria, and deserved to advance. Yet, I remained on the edge of my seat waiting for that moment to come. And when it came, it was the big names for the United States, which is a very encouraging sign. Tim Howard comes up with the stop, followed by an incredible toss to Landon Donovan, who slotted it wide to Jozy Altidore. Jozy turned on the burners and then slotted it right to Clint Dempsey's foot. The Algerian keeper came up with a nice save, but then it was the veteran Donovan who came back into the picture, having not given up on the play and sending the Yanks through to the next round.

So what does it all mean? We live to fight another day. Our opponent will be decided this afternoon. With the pressure of winning our group added, we go into Saturday's match with the stakes raised even higher. The US can celebrate this evening, but then it's back to business. I expect a renewed sense of confidence to be very prominent in the knockout stage. As long as this doesn't crossover into the brash, cocky stage, the US will be in good shape. We need those four who combined on the final goal to play as good as ever. We need our back line to be solid. We can't get lost in transition. (Michael Bradley played incredibly in this regard today. Hustling the entire game. Won't show up in the box score, but greatly impacted this game.) But most of all, we need to make the most of our chances.

Bob Bradley needs to be commended again on his substitutions. I liked starting Herculez Gomez, to see if he could break through in the first half. But when it was clear Algeria was going to lock down in the back, moving the scrappy and creative Clint Dempsey to the front was the right move. Feilhaber comes into the midfield on that switch, and then Bob brings in the more offensive-minded Edson Buddle for Maurice Edu. That move, and then the final move of the vet Damarcus Beasley proved that Bobby B was moving all-in. And it worked. We'll see you Saturday.

Hypothetical Roster - Bucks 2010-11

Here's who the Bucks currently have (at least in their hypothetical playing rotation):

Guards - Brandon Jennings, Luke Ridnour, Carlos Delfino, Chris Douglas-Roberts

Forwards - Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Ersan Ilyasova, Corey Maggette

Center - Andrew Bogut

Here's what we need:

1) Legit 2-guard that can shoot. Not a small 3 or a shoot-first PG. A shooting guard,

Answer: Xavier Henry in the first round of Thursday's draft.

2) Backup big men, to play behind Bogut

Answer: Tiny Gallon, 2nd round pick

Possibly resigning Kurt Thomas, if he doesn't retire.

3) Veteran point guard, if Ridnour signs elsewhere

Answer: Keith Bogans/Travis Diener, because both would be kind of funny

4) Glue guy/Spark (I really hope the Bucks pick up this guy somehow)

Answer: Greivis Vasquez, 2nd round

If this all holds true to form, with Ridnour and Thomas sticking around, our rotation would be as follows:

PG - Jennings

SG - Delfino

SF - Maggette

PF - Ilyasova

C - Bogut

2nd team guards: Ridnour, Henry, CDR

Reserve big men: Gallon, Thomas, Mbah a Moute

Glue guy: Vasquez

Assuming everyone stays healthy, I see a team that is not only dangerous but respected in the East. There's no way of knowing what the East will look like, with Wade/LeBron/everyone else still unsigned, but there's no reason this team can't repeat as a 4 or 5 seed in the East.

Summer Update - Quick Hits

Well. It's been an eventful couple of weeks, trekking from La Crosse to Waukesha and back a handful of times. That, coupled with my laptop crashing, have prevented me from blogging in recent weeks. Anywho, here's my return with some quick hits on college football realignment, the Brewers, the Bucks! the Bucks, and the World Cup.

(I don't know who I aimed that paragraph at. Let's say it was for the baby, Christopher David Adamczyk.)

College Football Realignment

1) Happy for the Big Ten, getting to 12 teams, especially with a quality school (both academically and athletically) in Nebraska. They'd be reaching if they expanded any further, especially because it seems like Notre Dame isn't going anywhere.

2) Pac 10: Solid addition with Utah, to bring the conference to 12 as well. Colorado doesn't add much, at least for football. The conference as a whole seems like losers in this whole thing, as they were apparently oh-so-close to adding Texas, Oklahoma, and whomever else from the Big 12.

3) The Big XII survives, and may actually be stronger. They're going to form TV networks, which will bring in more money and now they don't have to share it with as many schools. They still have Texas so they'll be fine. Big props to Dan Beebe for keeping the Big XII afloat.

4) Boise State's move to the Mountain West doesn't seem all that great anymore now that they don't have all three of the current really good mid-majors in Boise State, Utah, and TCU.

Brewers

Like what the offense is doing, especially Rickie Weeks at the top of the lineup and Corey Hart's hot stretch. Braun and Fielder are heating up too, which is nice. Could use a little more production out of Escobar, Gomez, and Kottaras/Lucroy. Pitching is a different story. Not good enough, but I like that we no longer have to watch Suppan don the Brewers uniforms.

The Bucks! The Bucks!

WE GOT RID OF MY TWO LEAST FAVORITE BUCKS!!!!! And, we acquired a 20-point scorer in Corey Maggette. Fills a role we don't have, and hopefully we can pair this trade with a solid shooting guard (resign Johnny Salmons or get someone else). I applaud John Hammond. Save about a million in salary, get rid of two terrible players, and get a very effective, versatile player. Plus we get an additional second-round pick, which I hope is going to be used to move up in the first round.

World Cup

Not going to say anything about the United States, other than they better freaking beat Algeria. I'm surprised by the likes of Chile, Switzerland, and Uruguay, and I'm happy France crashed and burned. The best teams to me right now are Argentina, Brazil, and the Dutch. I'd still pick Spain and Germany to do well, despite their losses in pool play. I don't think Italy and England are going to do much if they advance. My sleeper is Uruguay: Diego Forlan is having a hell of a tournament so far. And props to the Bufana Bufana for being classy hosts. Congrats on beating France, and I wish I could have seen you break through into the knockout stage over Mexico.

Morales' Walk-off Fluke/Disaster

I was checking my fantasy team last night, and was pleased with Kendry Morales' stat line: 2-4, with a run, a homer, and 4 RBIs. Seeing that my fantasy was in a deep hole this week, I was encouraged with this line. I flip on SportsCenter however, and see the headline "Walk Off Gone Wrong" and become intrigued. And then of course, the Mariners-Angels highlight comes on. A broken leg...in the celebration?

This was familiar to me, because I remember it happening to Ted Ginn in the 07 title game vs Florida after his kick-off return touchdown. It also happened in a soccer game I played in high school (for the opposing team). The thing is, it is a fluke injury. But it makes perfect sense. Morales jumps into a crowd of people, and expects not to land on someones foot? Of course his ankle is going to roll and he's going to get injured. Now, thousands of fantasy teams (much less the Angels) are going to suffer.

I'm surprised this hasn't happened sooner. I don't think the MLB is going to do anything drastic, because teams are going to look and see, "Wow, they just lost their best player" and change things themselves. Mike Scioscia said the Angels will change the way they celebrate. I'm interested to see the next walk-off, and if the celebrations are really different.

On a related story, the Brewers need to package Prince Fielder right now and send him to the Angels. Catch them while they are desperate, and get either Ervin Santana or Jered Weaver (or both?) and then some solid prospects. Doug Melvin...do it.

Lottery Shakedown

I haven't blogged in a while, and I blame that on a last ditch effort at my finals and such for the past few weeks. Alas, UW-L let me out, which gives me a little more free time this summer.

Last night, the Washington Wizards won the NBA Draft lottery, and as long as they keep this decision out of the hands of all of the politicians in DC, then they should be just fine. The Wizards ownership, as well as coach Flip Saunders, have already made their desires known to select Kentucky PG John Wall number one overall. Inserting him into a backcourt with (a hopefully stable) Gilbert Arenas makes them extremely dynamic. Pair that duo with a solid Josh Howard at the 3, an emerging Andray Blatche and JaVale McGee, and you have a young, but formidable starting front line.

The draft really starts with pick #2, so here's my initial mock draft for the rest of the lottery:

2. Philadelphia - Evan Turner, Ohio State

-Next best player available. Fills multiple needs for the Sixers, but could spell the end of the Andre Iguodala era in Philly.

3. New Jersey - Derrick Favors, Georgia Tech

-The Nets need a bunch of help, and an athletic big like Favors would complement center Brook Lopez (as well as swingman LeBron James?)

4. Minnesota - Wesley Johnson, Syracuse

-Have players like Jonny Flynn and Al Jefferson, and could use that athletic swingman. Johnson fits the bill for the Timberwolves here.

5. Sacramento - Al-Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest

-It could be tempting to draft a center here, but drafting the uber-athletic Aminu to run with ROY Tyreke Evans seems like the move here.

6. Golden State - DeMarcus Cousins, Kentucky

- The power forward complement to the Warriors' fast-paced offense.

7. Detroit - Cole Aldrich, Kansas

-The gritty, hard-nosed will remind Pistons fans of the likes of Rick Mahorn and Bill Laimbeer. Plus, maybe the NBA will pay for his dental plan.

8. LA Clippers - Ed Davis, North Carolina

-Eric Gordon. Blake Griffin. DeAndre Jordan. Ed Davis? That's a lot of high draft pick talent that is bound to pay off soon.

9. Utah - Greg Monroe, Georgetown

-A Carlos Boozer clone who will mesh well with Deron Williams when Boozer bolts this summer.

10. Indiana - Xavier Henry, Kansas

-Depth behind face of the franchise Danny Granger.

11. New Orleans - Donattas Motejunas, Lithuania

-A true international player. At 7'0", he can still spread the floor and shoot from outside. Gives the likes of Chris Paul and Darren Collison more room to operate.

12. Memphis - Gordon Hayward, Butler

-For a team on the brink of the playoffs in 2009-10, Hayward might be that missing piece for the Grizzlies. Set at guard (Conley, Mayo) and in the post (Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph), Hayward could be immensely valuable if Rudy Gay bolts.

13. Toronto - Ekpe Udoh, Baylor

-His game looks very much like that of Chris Bosh, who is sure to come south of the Canadian border this summer.

14. Houston - Hassan Whiteside, Marshall

-Gives the Rockets a post partner for Yao Ming. Sort of a developmental project, but the Rockets have an excellent organization to do so in.

THE BUCKS! THE BUCKS!

The Bucks surprised many in their run to the playoffs this spring, and showed what they are made of in taking the Hawks to the brink. In this draft, the Bucks need to take the best player who can fill one of two needs. The first would be an athletic shooter to play the 2, replacing Michael Redd. The other would be a versatile 4, who can play defense and stretch the defense. For those reasons, I hope that these players fall into the Bucks laps:

1. Ekpe Udoh

2. Patrick Patterson

3. James Anderson

In the second round, I hope the Bucks can land a quality player who can serve a role, in the likes of Luc Richard Mbah a Moute.

1. Trevor Booker

2. Greivis Vasquez

3. Luke Harangody (Not a joke. He'd be a SOLID second round pick.)

Let it go, Brett...

Everything that I've heard on ESPN and whatnot about the ankle surgery that Brett Favre needs to apparently have in order to play next season sounds very familiar to me. Scar tissue and calcium deposits that need to be removed, that have built up after ankle injuries? Had that same surgery almost a year ago. I couldn't put any weight on my ankle for 6 weeks, was back at 70% or so after 3 months, and I'm just getting to 100% after almost a year. And I'm 21 years old. He's almost twice my age. Granted he has more resources and the best PT available, his body is still 40 years old.

Knowing this Favre song and dance, he'll take his good sweet time to make his decision. Should he decide on getting the surgery, it will probably be scheduled so he can have an excuse to miss off-season workouts and OTAs. If that's the case, he'll likely be no better than 70-80% by Week 1. The only reason that Favre was successful last season is because everything worked out in his favor. 2010 will be the law of averages, Brett. Save yourself the trouble and hang 'em up - for good.

Better without Bogut?

So sports are all the buzz in Wisconsin right now, and little to none of the talk is about the Green Bay Packers or the Wisconsin Badgers. It's the Brewers, like the past couple years, but it's shocking to hear people talking about the Bucks. I guess that's what happens when you have a catchy (and awesome) catch phrase. But I'm on board. I Fear the Dear.

Since going 10-4 in February and 11-4 in March, the city of Milwaukee and the state of Wisconsin have been boarding the Milwaukee Bucks bandwagon. When Bogut went down April 3rd, I'll admit, I thought the dream had died. But with two victories in the playoffs in front of an absolutely rockin' Bradley Center crown, the Bucks have proved that their hot stretch in the season was no fluke.

Sure, they face an uphill climb for the rest of the playoffs, having to win at least one game in Atlanta to win the series. However, I like Milwaukee's chances. I think we're actually better in this series without Bogut. (I love Bogut. I wish he was playing. But let me explain.) Post play wouldn't be effective against the Hawks in these playoffs. In 2 games versus the Hawks this season, Bogut scored 14 and 9, respectively, while the team was carried by John Salmons in both games. The same goes for the playoffs here. Kurt Thomas isn't looking to score, instead looking to set vicious screens to open up the perimeter for Jennings, Delfino, Ridnour, and Salmons.

I'm not saying I wouldn't play Bogut if he was healthy. You can't do that to such a big contributor like Andrew. But with Kurt Thomas seeing more minutes, the floor is spread out more. Instead of working the ball into the post and then dealing with Al Horford's defense and Josh Smith coming across the lane for a weakside block, the Bucks can work on swinging the ball around for a good shot. If a three isn't open, the guards can penetrate to the spots that Josh Smith isn't. Brandon Jennings worked this to perfection in game 4, one of the big reasons the Bucks one. And Bogut's defense isn't so amazing that Thomas can't replace it, as he can defend Horford just fine. The Hawks are too athletic to look to post up too much, anyway.

Do the Bucks stand a chance in the next rounds, were we to advance? Eh, maybe. The Celtics may be a decent matchup on paper, but we don't have the experience they do. We also don't have an answer for Dwight Howard (or Rashard Lewis) if we were to run into the Magic. And I don't see anyone taking down LeBron this year. I think the Bucks are a great story in round one, but after that, I get a little more skeptical.

Move over Mel...Here's My Mock Draft

For the first time, the NFL Draft is going to be broadcast in primetime, beginning Thursday night on ESPN. For one, I think this is a great idea. Not only are there more days of a great NFL event, but it gives teams almost a whole extra day to wheel and deal, which is what I'm most excited to see. Players like Marshawn Lynch and LenDale White are two of the many players rumored to be moving, and with extra time this year, don't be surprised to find antsy GM pulling the trigger on a number of moves before the start of round 2.

As it is way too tough to predict trades that might happen, here's a mock draft with the teams sitting in their current picks. While the Browns may "mortgage the ranch" to move up to the number one overall pick, I don't think that Mike Holmgren and Co. see Sam Bradford as enough above Jimmy Clausen to make that move, when they can likely still get Clausen, if desired, at number seven. Here's my top 12 picks, with a little rationale on each.

1) St. Louis - Sam Bradford, QB - Oklahoma

-This seems to be a no-doubter here. Ever since St. Louis released Marc Bulger, it's been a foregone conclusion that Bradford will be the number one pick this year. The only reason I think he won't sign before the draft is if someone decides to blow them out of the water with an offer for the pick, in which case St. Louis could trade down and gather more picks and/or veterans, and still be comfortable taking Clausen or Colt McCoy here.

2) Detroit - Ndamukong Suh, D - Nebraska

-All-world talent, raved about in college, and fits a definite need for Detroit. Combining Suh with the additions of Kyle Vanden Bosch and Corey Williams will give the Lions a formidable line that will become the strength of their team.

3) Tampa Bay - Gerald McCoy, DL - Oklahoma

-McCoy could go number two, as many teams see McCoy and Suh as so close in talent that they are virtually interchangeable. Whichever DL falls to the Buccaneers here, fans in Tampa will see shades of Warren Sapp anchoring their line for years.

4) Washington - Russell Okung, OL - Oklahoma State

-Continuing the trend of Big XII conference draft picks, Washington will draft a youthful tackle to protect recently acquired Donovan McNabb. A very logical, easy pick.

5) Kansas City - Eric Berry, S - Tennessee

-Berry would bring a playmaker to a rebuilding Kansas City team. The Chiefs have a very mediocre defense and they would be getting a top-tier talent with this pick.

6) Seattle - Bryan Bulaga, OT - Iowa

-Facing the end of the Matt Hasselbeck era, the Seahawks should opt to bring in some protection for whoever his successor may be. Plus, longtime tackle Walter Jones could retire, making a offensive line choice a more pressing need.

7) Cleveland - Dez Bryant, WR - Oklahoma State

-Fitting the T.O./Randy Moss/Brandon Marshall mold in more ways that just on the field ability, Bryant brings explosiveness to Cleveland. I don't see Cleveland committing to another Notre Dame quarterback after Brady Quinn's departure, so the Browns should bring in some help for newly signed Jake Delhomme.

8) Oakland - Trent Williams, OT - Oklahoma

- Rumors are swirling about the Raiders and their quarterback situation, which makes it seem that their 2010 QB could range anywhere from JaMarcus Russell to Ben Roethlisberger. Either way, their offensive line could use shoring up to protect whoever is back there.

9) Buffalo - Anthony Davis, OT - Rutgers

- Continuing the (boring) trend of picking offensive lineman, the Bills should pick an OT here with a ton of upside. I see the Bills looking hard at Colt McCoy and Tim Tebow at round two if available, and I see them passing on Jimmy Clausen here.

10)Jacksonville - CJ Spiller, RB - Clemson

-With no complement to Maurice Jones-Drew, the Jaguars can add a homerun threat to their offense with Spiller.

11) Denver - Rolando McClain, LB - Alabama

- Playing a familiar inside linebacker position in Denver's 3-4 scheme, McClain makes sense here. Accomplished and experienced coming from the Crimson Tide, Denver will have a solid player here ready to go from day one.

12) Miami - Dan Williams, DT - Tennessee

- Having upgraded the offense with the Brandon Marshall acquisition, the Dolphins will find a nose tackle for their 3-4 defense in Williams here.

You may notice that I, probably the biggest Notre Dame fan on campus, don't have Clausen getting drafted within the top twelve. He could go to Buffalo, which makes some sense, or Oakland, which I pray doesn't happen, but I don't see either of those happening. Clausen will probably go somewhere in the teens, but only after a team trades to get into that position. If that doesn't happen, there is an outside shot he goes to Seattle at #14.

Near the top of the second round, you can take it to the bank that Colt McCoy and Tim Tebow will come off of the board before pick 41. Cleveland and Buffalo both have high picks in this round, and McCoy and Tebow are not only talented but intriguing enough to come off the board here.

I hope the Packers get one of two players with pick 23, those being Idaho G Mike Iupati or USC safety Taylor Mays. Both fill definite needs, and I hope one is available that late in the first round.

The Vikings could draft Mays as well, as secondary is the area Minnesota will most likely address.

Master-Phil

I have absolutely no idea how the world golf rankings are calculated. Sure, ESPN and whoever brings it up all the time, but scholars maintain that no one actually knows how it is that PGA golfers get ranked. For years, it has been Tiger Woods and then everyone else. But now, more than ever, that notion is not correct. The #1 ranking was Tiger's to lose. In his absence, he lost it. Phil Mickelson is the best player in the world right now, and his third green jacket at Augusta backs that up.

I tuned into the Masters each of the four days it was televised, and it was clear that Mickelson has an edge right now that Tiger, or anyone else, clearly does not have right now. Woods may have a skill set that is unmatched on the planet, but in a mental game like golf, your head needs to be square on your shoulders in order to succeed. 2009 was a rough year for the Mickelson family, with Phil's wife and mother both receiving treatment for breast cancer. With his wife Amy watching from the 18th green on Sunday, Phil stepped to the 18th tee with a two-stroke lead. After stroking a three-wood down the fairway and then landing the approach within ten feet. He could have three-putted and still walked away champion. He only needed one more stroke, sank the birdie, and earned one more fashionable blazer for his collection.

Much like how Tiger Woods played some of his best golf with Earl standing greenside, Phil had to have his wife on his mind as he stepped up to that final tee shot on Sunday. In a post-round interview, I've never seen Tiger so unsure of himself. He was clearly disappointed in his fourth place finish, but he pretty much played the best golf that he could this weekend. Even up-and-comers on the tour Lee Westwood and Anthony Kim played some of the best rounds of their life. But with Lefty motivated, driven, and playing at the high-level that he is right now, every major right now is Phil Mickelson's to lose.

The Bucks! The Bucks!

I just read the details of Bogut's gruesome fall (not Amare's fault, by the way), and I was disheartened to hear that his broken hand, sprained wrist, and dislocated elbow would need at least six weeks to heal before even beginning rehab. What that basically means is that he has set himself up for a dramatic return in game five of the NBA Finals in June, right? You know, with the Bucks facing elimination, down three games to one against the Lakers? This is going to happen!!

In all reality, Bogut's injury means a disappointing exit in the first round, against whoever they may play. They'll get down 2-0, win game three with a great performance by Salmons and Jennings, but be unable to win another game in the series. It sucks, but of all of my predictions, this one is most likely to be true. (Although I certainly wouldn't mind being wrong again!)

However, 2010-11 is bright for basketball in Milwaukee. If Bogut returns to his form from this season, the Bucks will have a solid starting lineup of the 7'1" Aussie, Mbah a Moute, Jennings, Salmons, and Delfino. Throw in an improved Ilyasova, Ridnour, and a draft pick such as Ekpe Udoh from Baylor or Cole Aldrich from Kansas, I see no reason why Milwaukee can't find themselves as a six or seven seed in the playoffs in 2011.

The NCAA Tourney that could have been

It wasn't supposed to end like this. Storybooks don't end like that. Jimmy Chitwood knocks down the shot at the buzzer. Gordon Hayward had not one, but two chances, to recreate Hoosiers. But alas, the fairytale ending wasn't meant to be. And it should have never happened in the first place.

The 2010 Tournament was very solid, and about a few inches from going down in history as one of the greatest games, shots, and month ever. Monday night's game will go down as the game that almost was. Ten years down the road, 2010 will most likely be the year that is remembered by Butler's run to the championship game. But in all honesty, this never would have happened 30 years ago. Butler's run only could have happened at this moment in history.

The one-and-done rule is skewing the balance of power in college basketball. It's not really a surprise that only one number one seed made it to this years Final Four. If you look at some of the young talent in the NBA, that is who Kyle Singler, Jon Scheyer and Brian Zoubek should have been playing against in the NBA. As a matter of fact, there's no way Duke would have been a number one seed if the NBA got ride of the one-and-done.

Let's look at a few of some potential teams. This year's national player of the year, Evan Turner, would not only have all of his current teammates, but also #1 draft pick Greg Oden, Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley Jr., and sniper Daequon Cook. Or how about another #2 seed, Kansas State? Not only would they have the combination of Denis Clemente and Jacob Pullen but also Michael Beasley and Bill Walker? This year's Syracuse squad would feature first-rounders Jonny Flynn and Donte Greene.

And that's just teams that made the tournament this year. UCLA would feature quite the combination of Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook. Memphis would have the phenomenal backcourt of Derrick Rose and Tyreke Evans. And Stanford would still have the twin towers (literally) in Brook and Robin Lopez. Would Butler be able to still make it through a bracket full of world beaters like this? Possible, but highly unlikely.

But the team that would have been dominant is the Texas Longhorns. If Kevin Durant can dominate the NBA the way he has, I'm pretty sure he'd be walking all over the NCAA as an upperclassman. With the likes of Damion James, Dexter Pittman, Avery Bradley and 2008 lottery pick DJ Augustin, Texas very well could have rolled the table and gone undefeated. Sure, a Cinderella story like Butler is nice. But imagine a Texas vs. Ohio State national championship. Ten first round draft picks on the floor, with more than likely a half dozen of them going into the lottery. You like a Cinderella story? I'll take a clash of the titans.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but Fear the Deer

With March Madness wrapping up, the MLB underway and the NFL draft looming, there is still a storyline that is somehow still relevant. And that, ladies and gentleman, are the...Milwaukee Bucks?

With a 41-33 record entering April, the Bucks, Milwaukee has already surpassed last year's win total by seven wins. And with eight games left, the Bucks have guaranteed a .500 or better record and their best playoff positioning in years. What is the difference from years past? Well, it starts with Michael Redd.

With Redd in the lineup, the Bucks were a dismal 6-12. Without, Milwaukee improves to fourteen games over .500 with a record of 35-21 at the end of March. Frankly, I don't think this is a coincidence.

Much of the credit needs to be given to savvy general manager John Hammond. With the acquisition of veteran shooting guard Jerry Stackhouse and the trade (read: heist) of John Salmons, the Bucks now have the four things necessary to be successful leading into the playoffs. With two perimeter scorers, a solid post presence, a healthy mix of veterans and role players, and a hard nosed coach, the Bucks are poised to be a tough out in the playoffs.

The reason that John Salmons is an upgrade over Michael Redd is because Salmons is comfortable in his role. Redd was a complementary player who was thrust into a star's role without a star's talent. Redd is a volume shooter, who needs a lot of shots to score a lot of points, whereas Salmons shoots a higher percentage from the field (44% to Redd's 35%) and from three (38% to 30%). It also doesn't hurt that Salmons "only" makes $6.5 million to Redd's $17 million.

Salmons also has rookie Brandon Jennings to help fill the bucket from the back court. While Jennings started off the season on a tear, he seems to have settled into a role that suits him better. When Jennings acts as more of a playmaker and scores when he's open or hot, it is beneficial to the Bucks.

The story of the season however might be the resurgence or Andrew Bogut (or possibly surgence? I think he would have needed to play like this at some point earlier in his career for it to be a resurgence). Averaging roughly 16 points and ten rebounds a night, Bogut is definitely having a career year and is a candidate for Most Improved Player.

The role players on the Bucks might be the most crucial component of their team. On any given night, Carlos Delfino, Luke Ridnour or Ersan Ilyasova could lead the team in scoring, as all three are averaging just over ten points a game. Throw in Luc Richard Mbah a Moute as the defensive stopper and Jerry Stackhouse and Kurt Thomas as the crafty old veterans, the Bucks have a solid nine-man rotation entering the playoffs. (Note: This includes never playing Charlie Bell and Dan Gadzuric.)

Scott Skiles is the piece that brings all of these talents together. Skiles, a former point guard who holds the NBA record with 30 assists, is the perfect coach for Brandon Jennings. He is hard nose and preaches defense. He'll pull players if they are struggling, and roll with hot hands and hot lineups that are working. If the Bucks can hold onto the fifth seed, they'll likely face an aging yet formidable Celtics lineup. Get past Boston, and they'll run into Cleveland, who they've shown they can hang with. Whether that transfers over into a seven-game series is still to be seen, but at least they'll have the chance this year, which is better than they can say in years past.

16 Sweet Thoughts

The first two rounds of this year's tournament were extremely entertaining, and left fans with anticipation of some really good matchups as we whittle the field from 16 to eight and eventually to four. Here are 16 thoughts (roughly one per team? We'll see how that goes.) about what is still to come in the mayhem that is left of March.

1. It may not be clear who the best teams are, but it's pretty clear who the top players are heading into this year's NBA Draft. Kentucky's John Wall, Ohio State's Evan Turner, and Wesley Johnson have all proved themselves with stellar play throughout the conference tournament and early rounds of the NCAAs. All three are their respective conference players of the year, and should go one through three in June's draft.

2. I don't think Northern Iowa beating Kansas was a fluke. Northern Iowa has as good a shot as any of the "mid-majors" to make it to the Final Four.

3. I didn't have Kansas in the Final Four. I thought they'd get upset by the hot hand of Turner and the Buckeyes, but I guess I was a few rounds premature on that one.

4. Speaking of those mid-majors, over a quarter of the remaining teams are from non-BCS conferences. The whole major-conference debate doesn't really translate to basketball. I still think a major conference school will take home the crown, but don't be surprised if one or more of these teams isn't done winning just yet.

5. The Big Ten has shown well, outside of Wisconsin's trouncing by Cornell. Michigan State showed some grit in their win versus Maryland, Purdue avoided the upset talk versus Siena, and Ohio State has been as good as anyone.

6. The Big East, however, hasn't been so great. Georgetown losing to the Ohio Bobcats, and Villanova getting beat by St. Mary's doesn't reflect well on the conference. Anyone who had Villanova going far has to rethink their basketball knowledge.

7. One of the most intriguing teams left is Baylor. Coming off of their first NCAA wins in 60 years, the Bears have the size, length, and offensive firepower to compete with anyone. Battle tested in the Big XII, I think St. Mary's Cinderella story ends with Baylor.

8. The other intriguing team is Xavier. Upending Pitt in the second round, Xavier is lingering on radar screens of the top teams. Jordan Crawford is the star, and won't be fazed by the intimidating glare of Frank Martin and KSU (he dunked on LeBron for crying out loud.)

And my winners... (Keep in mind these aren't predictions. This is what is going to happen.)

9. Northern Iowa vs. Michigan State - Northern Iowa

From the high of a buzzer beater to a low of losing your star, Michigan State's roller coaster ride ends against the steady Panthers.

10. Tennessee vs. Ohio State - Ohio State

Tennessee was seeded too high as a six seed, so this will play more like a two-three game than anything. However, Bruce Pearl's squad doesn't have Evan Turner.

11. Syracuse vs. Butler - Syracuse

Andy Rautins is lethal from outside, and is unselfish enough to pick apart Butler. Jim Boeheim's squad is at least going one more round.

12. Xavier vs. Kansas State - Kansas State

Potentially a barn-burner, Crawford will light it up but will fall just short versus the lethal trio of Denis Clemente, Jacob Pullen's beard, and Frank Martin's stare.

13. Kentucky vs. Cornell - Kentucky

One of the big reasons Cornell beat Wisconsin was the lack of play makers on the Badgers. Big Red, meet John Wall.

14. Washington vs. West Virginia - West Virginia

A trendy pick after winning the Big East Tournament, West Virginia will continue their run against the best the Pac-10 has to offer.

15. Duke vs. Purdue - Duke

Wisconsin beat both of these teams. That being utterly useless right now, Purdue will finally miss Robbie Hummel against the size and experience of the Blue Devils.

16. Baylor vs. St. Mary's - Baylor

I'd love to pick St. Mary's here, but Baylor is much more athletic across the front line than Villanova. Epke Udoh is just too much for Omar Samhan, as likable as he is, to handle in the post.

So I've got No. Iowa vs. OSU, Syracuse vs. KSU, Kentucky vs. West Virginia, and Duke vs. Baylor. That leaves my bracket's Final Four of Ohio State, Kansas State, Kentucky, and Baylor still intact. I'll be doing the John Wall dance all weekend.

Top Seeds Entering March Madness

As I near the end of my college undergraduate career studying Bracketology, I feel like I am informed and authoratative enough to present my March Madness bracket to the world. However, with limited technological resources (ESPN wouldn't donate money for one of those fancy touch screen boards like they use on SportsCenter...not that I even asked), I will simply present to you my top 16 teams, seeded one through four in each of the regions.





Number One Seeds:


Midwest (opening rounds in Oklahoma City) - Kansas

West (opening rounds in Jacksonville, FL) - Duke

South (opening rounds in Buffalo, NY) - Syracuse

East (opening rounds in Milwaukee) - Kentucky


No change after the conference tournaments. The #1 overall seed will go to Kansas if they win the Big XII Tournament, and Kentucky if they win SEC with KU loss. If both lose, then it's Kansas. Syracuse's regular season withstands their early departure from the Big East tournament and Duke not losing early leaves them as the best of the rest.


Number Two Seeds


Ohio State, Kansas State, West Virginia, Georgetown




OSU solidifies standing as a #1 seed with Evan Turner's buzzer beater, as do WVU and KSU with their runs to their respective conference championship. Georgetown peaks at the right time to grab a #2 seed.

Number Three Seeds



Purdue, Villanova, Michigan State, Pittsburgh

Purdue's not hindered by Robbie Hummel's loss, and Villanova has been a top team all year. Pitt benefits from the strength of the Big East, and MSU benefits from their history and Tom Izzo.


Number Four Seeds

Baylor, Tennessee, BYU, Wisconsin

Baylor finishes with a strong Big XII tourney, as does Bruce pearl's Crew in the SEC. BYU emerges as the best mid-major after New Mexico's loss to SDSU, and Wisconsin isn't hurt too much by a loss to a hot Illinois team.

Shout-outs:

Cody - You are definitely going to owe me $20

Adamczyk- You actually read my blog.

Schmidty - Notre Dame will get a higher seed than Marquette.

The NFL "saves" us from the lull in the sports schedule

There's something to be said about America. We love our football. It hasn't even been a month since the Super Bowl, and yet some fans are going into withdrawal. What better to appease the insatiable? The NFL Combine! In a bit of a down period in sports (with 2010's Olympics being an exception), the American sports fan looks for something to fill their need. With the NBA in the thick of their schedule after the All Star break, NCAA hoops not quite at March madness and the MLB not quite at Opening Day, the combine falls at the perfect time for those looking for some water cooler fodder. (Did you know you can bet on the combine? Should I take the over or the under on the line for Ndamakong Suh's 40 time at 5.02 seconds?)

ESPN and the NFL Network isn't helping this situation, bringing in "Insiders" and "experts" every day to update us on the draft stocks of quarterbacks we've been seeing for years. Really, all of a sudden Jimmy Clausen is ranked higher than Sam Bradford, based on some workout? Please. The only story I'm moderately interested in is the change in Tim Tebow's throwing motion, only because I'm intrigued by who he is, who will draft him, and how he will fare in the NFL. It's good that he's realized that he wouldn't be able to make the jump to the NFL on his personality, he actually needs to be able to throw a 15-yard out route and hit a streaking wide receiver on a post route, with the likes of Julius Peppers or Dwight Freeney breathing down his neck.

I don't blame Colt McCoy, Bradford and Clausen for finding their own reasons not to compete in the combine. They've been such public figures in the football realms for years now, that I think more exposure will only allow scouts to nitpick and create reasons not to draft them so high. Working out in the comfort of their school's own pro day is the way to go, without the poking and prodding from NFL scouts and doctors at the combine. Sure, the combine is good for players trying to prove why they should be drafted, but for those who already know they are first round picks, I can only see the combine at hurting their stock.

Teams need to decide who they want based on film and game scouting. I understand the precautions that teams need to take with top-5 picks, as they are investing a great deal of money in these young men. But 40-times don't compare equally to game speed and bench press reps don't prove you can run block. The NFL serves a certain purpose, but it really doesn't need all the coverage it is getting.