Lots of week 2 surprises. Let's see what went down.
- Let's start with the shocker of shockers. The Bengals were so unbelievably overconfident that they got lit up by Derek Anderson and LOST to their rival Browns 51-45, a score usually seen by my home town Dragons. Carson Palmer threw 6 TD passes and lost. For being a defensive coach. Marvin Lewis' defense is quite the smelly, funky swiss cheese. That's the difference between Lewis and Tony Dungy, a defensive coach who's defense is actually succeeding. For someone over the hill, Jamal Lewis sure killed it. And a note to Chad Johnson, don't jump into the arms of your enemies. Can't end up well.
- The loss of Orlando Pace and a Special Teams fumble killed the Rams in their 17-16 loss against the Niners. And I'm calling out St Louis head coach Scott Linehan who down by 1 went for it 4th and 7 on their own 43 and failed, and tried a 56 yard field goal at 4th and 3 on the 49er 38 with 1:08 and missed it for the loss. If you have the offensive weapons like the Rams do, you take your chances, get 5 wide in there and get closer to the game winning score. Gotta give props to the 49er defense, their offense is last in the league and they're 2-0. Bravo to Mike Nolan.
- How bad is the Giants defense? I'm a journalist, and words can't describe it. 2 weeks, 80 points, zero passion, and one big fat forthcoming pink slip for the head coach. Even Pam Oliver was dishing out the smack against th Little Blue d. They had Bubba Franks and Donald Lee playing like Gonzalez and Gates. Brett Favre was tremendous and the youngry Green Bay D was outstanding, especially the vastly underrated CB duo of Harris and Woodson which is probably the best corner tandem in the NFC.
- Buffalo was either going to play inspired or expired, the latter was the case in their blowout loss to Pittsburgh. JP Losman was OK, but the Steelers held the ball 35 minutes, Willie Parker had another good rushing week, and Big Ben did a marvelous job of distributing the ball and is really embracing his role in Mike Tomlin's new opened up offense. The AFC North is getting interesting.
- Grab a carton of milk, you'll likely see the Saints offense front and center on it. And 31 points to Tampa? Joey Galloway threw it back 7 years and was really good and Caddy Williams found the end zone twice. McAllister and Bush were awful, and the New Orleans offense isn't going to work when Drew Brees has to chuck the rock 44 times. Maybe 30 rock, but not 44. Sean Payton needs to switch things up, or K-Ville may be down in the dumps again and not just because your best copper is Anthony Anderson.
- Carolina looked so good last week, but the Texans are the league's biggest surprise. Matt Schaub looks like a brilliant move by this team, and Gary Kubiak is the insanely early frontrunner for coach of the year. Best start in franchise history. They rushed the ball a lot to allow Schaub to manage the game, and Andre Johnson looks like he's elevated his game to a new level. Steve Smith may have scored 3 TD's, but the Panthers only ran it 18 times. Any offense needs to keep the defense honest, and they didn't. The Texans were able to stay back in coverage and easily fended off the Panthers. Is it hot in here, or is it just John Fox's swivel chair?
- If Jacksonville is a depressing team to watch, (which they are) Atlanta is suicide. It was bad versus worse here, a stinkfest. Joey Harrington was sacked 7 times, as many points as they scored. Jacksonville had 11 penalties, 2 shy of their point total. David Garrard was the lone bright spot.
- Tennessee always plays Indianapolis tough, but Vince Young has to complete his game. He has to realize that he has to use his arm in the 4th quarter and not his feet. Adam Vinatieri was uncharacteristically bad, missing a field goal and an extra point. It was a pretty even game throughout, and Tennessee has to grab a moral victory here.
- Props to the Cardinals, for a big division win in the wiiiiiiide open NFC West. Edge James has regained his mojo in Ken Whisenhunt's offense, and the team now has the balanced attack they envisioned when they pried James away from the Colts. This was a really well played game, and this time it was Arizona that put a final drive together to win it. Good football, good division.
- What's the opposite of good football? Why, Vikings-Lions of course. 10 turnovers, 19 penalties, 1 concussion, numerous cases of headaches and heartburn. There were more wasted opportunities then there are troops in Iraq, and thankfully the Lions finally ended it. The Mike Martz offense seems to be working, and Jon Kitna is closer to proving everyone wrong.
- Trent Green allowed the Cowboys to pull away late, and Marion Barber and the defense guided Dallas to a 37-20 win. 4 picks, 1 fumble, 1 insanely embarrassing fumbled spike, and 1 terrible game for Green. The Dolphin running attack was held in check, as was Tony Romo for the most part but he was able to get the throws in when he needed including a 34 yard TD to TO.
- Justin McCareins had a sure TD to tie the game and let the ball, and a potentially uplifiting, season making, awe inspiring comeback led by Kellen Clemens. He later threw a pick to lose it, and Gang Green left Baltimore with a sour taste in their mouth. McGahee and Boller were impressive, as was Jerricho Cotchery, Thomas Jones was not. It was a wasted opportunity to bring the Jets team back to life, instead they'll be fighting for theirs next week.
- Combined with how much the Chiefs suck and a great day from Cedric Benson, the bad outing by Rex Grossman wasn't enough to keep Chicago from winning. Devin Hester also broke one for a score, and an offensive lineman caught a TD. What was also masked was that an offensive skill player doesn't have a TD this season. There are problems in the Second City, one week they may come to the forefront.
- The Broncos game ended in controversy, but I call it good 'ol fashioned icing the kicker. That's why I picked Mike Shanahan for coach of the year, he won it for Denver on Sunday. What lost it for Oakland was 53 yards passing, 46 came on one play to Joey Porter. That's pathetic and should bring Culpepper into the fold. Henry and Walker were superb for Denver, who keeps winning close games. This will bode well for later.
- San Diego failed to adjust in the first half, and it cost them the game early. New England knew that the Bolts rush D was legit, so they threw on 13 of their first 19 plays and the Chargers looked painfully puzzled. LT was shut down again, and the Patriots cemented their status as the team to beat,
- Boomer Esiason and Mark Schereth sang the praises of Jason Campbell in their big win over the Eagles, Donovan McNabb was blasted by Philly fans and some are already calling for Kevin Kolb. The Skins defense was very good in a very evenly played match. Maybe Washington could hang around for a while.
Stubhub
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Around The Majors- Tuesday Special
Just when you thought all the races were clear, right? The rest of the season now calls for cloudy with a chance of surprise, or for some Queens team disappointment and utter collapse. Let's get to the regular stuff done here at ATM today on SOS2.
Monday Recap
This was probably a game Detroit had to have. Cleveland scored 3 in the 8th to tie it and then won it 6-5 on a solo homer by Casey Blake off of Zach Miner. Johnny Peralta had 3 RBI's for the Tribe, who now leads Detroit by 5.5 games. The Tigers are now 3.5 games behind the Yankees for the Wild Card, New York held on to beat Baltimore 8-5. Abreu and Mientkiewicz each drove in 2. The Yankees are now 3.5 games behind Boston for the AL East lead, the Red Sox were shut down for one run over the complete game by Dustin McGowan as Toronto won 5-1. It was the Frank Thomas show for the Jays as he hit 3 homers and drove in all the runs. Javy Vazquez struck out 13 and Josh Fields homered and drove in 4 as the White Sox ripped the Royals 11-3. Minnesota scored twice in the 9th off of Joaqin Benoit as the Twins edged the Rangers 5-4. Figgins, Cabrera, and Kotchman each drove in 2 as the Angels nipped the Rays 10-7. Delmon Young drove in 3 for Tampa. Jose Lopez hit a big 3 run homer as the Mariners defeated Oakland 4-0.
BK Kim allowed 9 runs over 4 innings as the Braves mauled the Marlins 11-6. Jeff Francouer and Andrew Jones each drove in 3 for Atlanta. The Mets lead over Philly is now 2.5 as they committed 4 errors in a 12-4 loss to Washington. Church, Pena, Belliard, and Schnieder each drove in 2 for the Nats. Philadelphia had to slug and sweat as they edged the Cardinals 13-11. Ryan Howard homered twice and drove in 5 for the Phils. The Cubs kept their NL Central lead with 3 in the 9th off of David Weathers to win 7-6. Ramirez, Floyd, and DeRosa each drove in 2 for the Cubbies. Milwaukee stayed a game back as Yovani Gallardo threw 8 shutout frames in a 6-0 win over the Astros. The Giants scored 5 in the 8th to slither past the Snakes 8-5. Randy Winn drove in 4 for Frisco. San Diego now trails by only a game in the NL West as they got 2 ribs from Khalil Greene in a 3-0 win over Pittsburgh. The Pads lead the NLWC by 1.5 over Philly and 3 over the Dodgers.
News and Notes
- It's no secret that the Mets are in a state of peril. Pedro Martinez said that he probably won't play again if he suffers another serious injury. Carlos Delgado doesn't know when he'll return from a hip flexor injury. Willie Randolph said that he could go this weekend in Miami. Orlando Hernandez is day to day with a bunion on his right foot. Dinner will be served at 4:30.
- Apparently, towards the end of the season, rookies dress up in some odd costumes on plane rides. Dice-K Matsuzaka and his translator were dressed as Telletubbies. I'm not going to say which one he was, but you could email me (blueguy223@aol.com) for his name. Mike Lowell said he had to dress as a hobo on a team flight when he was a rook. On a recent Orioles trip, Fernando Cabrera was a gorilla, Jeremy Guthrie was a female nurse, and Kurt Birkins was a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader.
- Big move for the Phillies as Cole Hamels went off the DL. The Yankees brought up Chase Wright and Tyler Clippard.
Tuesday On Tap
Billingsley and Francis go at Coors in the first of a twinbill. Team rejects David Wells and Mark Redman go in the nightcap. The AL Central showdown continues at The Jake, as Verlander battles Westbrook. Mike Mussina faces Baltimore, and John Maine gets the call to save the Mets in Washington. Jon Lester and AJ Burnett battle in Toronto, Floyd faces Meche in KC, and Harang and Zambrano is a duel to watch at Wrigley. Ben Sheets goes in Houston, Lackey faces Tampa, and Cole Hamels comes back against St Louis. Gorzelanny and Maddux duel in San Diego.
- ATM will be back tomorrow on SOS.
Monday Recap
This was probably a game Detroit had to have. Cleveland scored 3 in the 8th to tie it and then won it 6-5 on a solo homer by Casey Blake off of Zach Miner. Johnny Peralta had 3 RBI's for the Tribe, who now leads Detroit by 5.5 games. The Tigers are now 3.5 games behind the Yankees for the Wild Card, New York held on to beat Baltimore 8-5. Abreu and Mientkiewicz each drove in 2. The Yankees are now 3.5 games behind Boston for the AL East lead, the Red Sox were shut down for one run over the complete game by Dustin McGowan as Toronto won 5-1. It was the Frank Thomas show for the Jays as he hit 3 homers and drove in all the runs. Javy Vazquez struck out 13 and Josh Fields homered and drove in 4 as the White Sox ripped the Royals 11-3. Minnesota scored twice in the 9th off of Joaqin Benoit as the Twins edged the Rangers 5-4. Figgins, Cabrera, and Kotchman each drove in 2 as the Angels nipped the Rays 10-7. Delmon Young drove in 3 for Tampa. Jose Lopez hit a big 3 run homer as the Mariners defeated Oakland 4-0.
BK Kim allowed 9 runs over 4 innings as the Braves mauled the Marlins 11-6. Jeff Francouer and Andrew Jones each drove in 3 for Atlanta. The Mets lead over Philly is now 2.5 as they committed 4 errors in a 12-4 loss to Washington. Church, Pena, Belliard, and Schnieder each drove in 2 for the Nats. Philadelphia had to slug and sweat as they edged the Cardinals 13-11. Ryan Howard homered twice and drove in 5 for the Phils. The Cubs kept their NL Central lead with 3 in the 9th off of David Weathers to win 7-6. Ramirez, Floyd, and DeRosa each drove in 2 for the Cubbies. Milwaukee stayed a game back as Yovani Gallardo threw 8 shutout frames in a 6-0 win over the Astros. The Giants scored 5 in the 8th to slither past the Snakes 8-5. Randy Winn drove in 4 for Frisco. San Diego now trails by only a game in the NL West as they got 2 ribs from Khalil Greene in a 3-0 win over Pittsburgh. The Pads lead the NLWC by 1.5 over Philly and 3 over the Dodgers.
News and Notes
- It's no secret that the Mets are in a state of peril. Pedro Martinez said that he probably won't play again if he suffers another serious injury. Carlos Delgado doesn't know when he'll return from a hip flexor injury. Willie Randolph said that he could go this weekend in Miami. Orlando Hernandez is day to day with a bunion on his right foot. Dinner will be served at 4:30.
- Apparently, towards the end of the season, rookies dress up in some odd costumes on plane rides. Dice-K Matsuzaka and his translator were dressed as Telletubbies. I'm not going to say which one he was, but you could email me (blueguy223@aol.com) for his name. Mike Lowell said he had to dress as a hobo on a team flight when he was a rook. On a recent Orioles trip, Fernando Cabrera was a gorilla, Jeremy Guthrie was a female nurse, and Kurt Birkins was a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader.
- Big move for the Phillies as Cole Hamels went off the DL. The Yankees brought up Chase Wright and Tyler Clippard.
Tuesday On Tap
Billingsley and Francis go at Coors in the first of a twinbill. Team rejects David Wells and Mark Redman go in the nightcap. The AL Central showdown continues at The Jake, as Verlander battles Westbrook. Mike Mussina faces Baltimore, and John Maine gets the call to save the Mets in Washington. Jon Lester and AJ Burnett battle in Toronto, Floyd faces Meche in KC, and Harang and Zambrano is a duel to watch at Wrigley. Ben Sheets goes in Houston, Lackey faces Tampa, and Cole Hamels comes back against St Louis. Gorzelanny and Maddux duel in San Diego.
- ATM will be back tomorrow on SOS.
Monday, September 17, 2007
No, I Did Not See This Coming
-The NFL is starting to get confusing. While people expected the 49ers to will some games, no one thought that they would shut down Steven Jackson and Rams. John Kitna predicted 10 wins, but no one thought they would start off 2-0. The Browns got rid of their starter, and behold, they had a starter in Derek Anderson all along. When people think Texans they think expansion, not Defense! The Texans defense shut down Carolina and Kansas City ( including Larry Johnson) and that's just the start of it. Mario Williams is looking like a true number one pick and Matt Schaub is playing All-Pro football. Randy Moss is open all day every day and when you have Tom Brady as your QB, there really is nothing to get upset over. LaDanian Tomlinson (I like to call him by his real name) has done nearly nothing besides for throw for a touchdown and run a little 5 yarder in. Lamont Jordan and Edgerrin James are reviving their careers in the early weeks and where in the world did Wes Welker come from. Here are some things to look out for as the weeks progress.
1. The Lions: Will they keep this up and win the weak NFC North!?
2. Can Matt Schaub lead the Texans to a good first half? Wow that would be crazy!
3. Will receivers and running backs continue to just demolish dismal defenses or will the coaches and players do their jobs?
4. Is LT the real MVP? He did this last year too but is he figured out?
Until next time, eat, drink and sleep sports.
Adam Ehrenreich
1. The Lions: Will they keep this up and win the weak NFC North!?
2. Can Matt Schaub lead the Texans to a good first half? Wow that would be crazy!
3. Will receivers and running backs continue to just demolish dismal defenses or will the coaches and players do their jobs?
4. Is LT the real MVP? He did this last year too but is he figured out?
Until next time, eat, drink and sleep sports.
Adam Ehrenreich
College Football Fallout
Another week, another big upset, another loss for a marquee program. The Pac 10 leads the SEC 1-0 in the showdown, let's see who came out on tap as it all falls out right now.
- 3 TD's for Steve Slaton, and a big road win for West Virginia on Thursday. That was the non-con test the Mountaineers needed to boost their computer standing.
- Air Force looks like a force after the beat TCU in OT. The team once thought of as BCS busters seems busted at 1-2.
- OK State fell at Troy. Ouch.
- Indiana is 3-0 and could sneak into a bowl game.
- Michigan State is 3-0 with a nice win over Pitt. Purdue is 3-0.
- Big road win for the hot seated Al Groh in North Carolina.
- Syracuse is the worst major conference team, and that includes Duke.
- Cincy went to Miami of Ohio and smashed 'em 47-10. The Bearcats are 3-0.
- Penn State ramped up the offense against Buffalo, and seems like the team to beat in the Big 10 after Wisconsin struggles in their win over The Citadel.
- What's going on at Auburn? A home loss to Mississippi State? That win may save Sly Croom his job. Minus 1 for the SEC, 0 to -1 Pac 10.
- Clemson could be a dark horse for the ACC title.
- Minnesota lost at Florida Atlantic. That's pretty bad.
- Florida and Tim Tebow proved it's still among the SEC elite by putting up 59 against Tennessee. That was an enourmous statement for the Gators.
- It keeps getting worse for Notre Dame as 0-2 Michigan punished them 38-0. Notre Dame is sure living up to its name, the Dame part that is. They're playing like women. Charlie Weis is going back to training camp, and they may need a whole lot more than that.
- Rutgers and Oklahoma go to 3-0 with cupcake killings.
- Very good win for Ohio State at Washington. The Huskies are tougher then they look.
- First Arkansas State, and now UCF gives Texas a bigtime scare. I don't think that the Longhorns can win the Big 12 this year if they could barely hold off these teams.
- Miami beat Florida International on the field, not off of it.
- UCLA was absolutely shocked by Utah, and it wasn't even close. They were thoroughly dominated by the Utes, minus one for the Pac 10. -1 to -1.
- Big C-USA win for Southern Miss on the road at East Carolina.
- Easy win for Cal over LaTech, who almost beat Hawaii last week.
- Alabama and Nick Saban are nack on the national radar after a huge upset of Arkansas. The Tide are back as a threat in the SEC, add one point for the southeast. 0 to -1 SEC.
- Baylor only beat Texas State by a TD, that's trouble for the Bears.
- Kansas is 3-0. they're a program on the rise.
- Spurr Dog is bringing South Carolina to prominence, he has to be one of the best college coaches of our generation.
- Everyone talks about Cal, USC, and UCLA but nobody talks about Oregon. The Ducks have cemented themselves as a top 3 Pac 10 team.
- Matt Ryan will be an NFL star. 435 yards in the air as BC blitzed GT 24-10. The Eagles are for real, and Ryan is the reason.
- Upset of the week and a huge blow to the Big East as Kentucky scored a TD in the last minute to shock Louisville. Score one for the SEC, 1 to -1 SEC. Andre' Woodson may have outplayed Brian Brohm in this one, and it was a sensational matchup for QB's. I hope they play this game more often if they don't do already.
- Even Duke can win, and Northwestern is pathetic as ever.
- Good bounce back win for Boise State against a good Wyoming team.
- USC easily made the statement of the week when they absolutely spanked Nebraska in Lincoln. 1 point for the Pac 10, 1-0 SEC.
- Arizona State is quietly 3-0 going into conference play.
- Colt Brennan made quick work of UNLV as Hawaii romped over the Runnin Rebs.
- 3 TD's for Steve Slaton, and a big road win for West Virginia on Thursday. That was the non-con test the Mountaineers needed to boost their computer standing.
- Air Force looks like a force after the beat TCU in OT. The team once thought of as BCS busters seems busted at 1-2.
- OK State fell at Troy. Ouch.
- Indiana is 3-0 and could sneak into a bowl game.
- Michigan State is 3-0 with a nice win over Pitt. Purdue is 3-0.
- Big road win for the hot seated Al Groh in North Carolina.
- Syracuse is the worst major conference team, and that includes Duke.
- Cincy went to Miami of Ohio and smashed 'em 47-10. The Bearcats are 3-0.
- Penn State ramped up the offense against Buffalo, and seems like the team to beat in the Big 10 after Wisconsin struggles in their win over The Citadel.
- What's going on at Auburn? A home loss to Mississippi State? That win may save Sly Croom his job. Minus 1 for the SEC, 0 to -1 Pac 10.
- Clemson could be a dark horse for the ACC title.
- Minnesota lost at Florida Atlantic. That's pretty bad.
- Florida and Tim Tebow proved it's still among the SEC elite by putting up 59 against Tennessee. That was an enourmous statement for the Gators.
- It keeps getting worse for Notre Dame as 0-2 Michigan punished them 38-0. Notre Dame is sure living up to its name, the Dame part that is. They're playing like women. Charlie Weis is going back to training camp, and they may need a whole lot more than that.
- Rutgers and Oklahoma go to 3-0 with cupcake killings.
- Very good win for Ohio State at Washington. The Huskies are tougher then they look.
- First Arkansas State, and now UCF gives Texas a bigtime scare. I don't think that the Longhorns can win the Big 12 this year if they could barely hold off these teams.
- Miami beat Florida International on the field, not off of it.
- UCLA was absolutely shocked by Utah, and it wasn't even close. They were thoroughly dominated by the Utes, minus one for the Pac 10. -1 to -1.
- Big C-USA win for Southern Miss on the road at East Carolina.
- Easy win for Cal over LaTech, who almost beat Hawaii last week.
- Alabama and Nick Saban are nack on the national radar after a huge upset of Arkansas. The Tide are back as a threat in the SEC, add one point for the southeast. 0 to -1 SEC.
- Baylor only beat Texas State by a TD, that's trouble for the Bears.
- Kansas is 3-0. they're a program on the rise.
- Spurr Dog is bringing South Carolina to prominence, he has to be one of the best college coaches of our generation.
- Everyone talks about Cal, USC, and UCLA but nobody talks about Oregon. The Ducks have cemented themselves as a top 3 Pac 10 team.
- Matt Ryan will be an NFL star. 435 yards in the air as BC blitzed GT 24-10. The Eagles are for real, and Ryan is the reason.
- Upset of the week and a huge blow to the Big East as Kentucky scored a TD in the last minute to shock Louisville. Score one for the SEC, 1 to -1 SEC. Andre' Woodson may have outplayed Brian Brohm in this one, and it was a sensational matchup for QB's. I hope they play this game more often if they don't do already.
- Even Duke can win, and Northwestern is pathetic as ever.
- Good bounce back win for Boise State against a good Wyoming team.
- USC easily made the statement of the week when they absolutely spanked Nebraska in Lincoln. 1 point for the Pac 10, 1-0 SEC.
- Arizona State is quietly 3-0 going into conference play.
- Colt Brennan made quick work of UNLV as Hawaii romped over the Runnin Rebs.
Around The Majors- Monday Express
Not a lot of time, so let's jetset.
Game Action
Cleveland lost 4-3 to KC, their AL Central lead is 4.5 over Detroit who beat Minnesota. They meet tonight Rogers against Byrd. The Tigers are 2.5 back of the Yankees for the AL Wild Card, they got a 3 run jack from Derek Jeter to take 2 of 3 from Boston 4-3. New York is 4.5 behind the Red Sox, they send Phil Hughes to the hill in Baltimore against Daniel Cabrera, they beat Toronto 8-6 in 10. The Jays send Dustin McGowan against Boston and Tim Wakefield. Jim Thome hit his 500th career homer, a walkoff to lead the White Sox over the Angels 9-7. Volquez and Slowey duel in Minnesota, Texas got 7 RBI's from Michael Young in an 11-9 win over Oakland. 17 game winner Kelvim Escobar goes tonight against Tampa who beat Seattle 9-2.
The Phillies have won 8 straight against the Mets including a 10-6 win over New York where the Mets committed 6 errors and walked 11 batters. The Phils are 3.5 back, and they send Kyle Kendrick on the mound in St Louis, the Mets are in Washington. The Nats got shut out by Tim Hudson and the Braves 3-0, they pitch John Smoltz at home against BK Kim and Florida. The Fish got fried 13-0 against the Rockies, Todd Helton hit career homer 300. The Cubs topped St Louis 4-2, they play Cincy who beat Milwaukee to give Chicago a 1 game lead in the NL Central. Milwaukee pitches Yovani Gallardo in Houston. The Giants lost to now 18 game winner Jake Peavy and the Padres 5-1, Frisco faces Brandon Webb and Arizona. The Snakes beat the Dodgers 6-1 and own a 2 game division lead.
Transactions
The Indians recalled Jeremy Sowers, Washington claimed Enrique Gonzalez off of waivers.
Less than 2 weeks left, enjoy the games.
Game Action
Cleveland lost 4-3 to KC, their AL Central lead is 4.5 over Detroit who beat Minnesota. They meet tonight Rogers against Byrd. The Tigers are 2.5 back of the Yankees for the AL Wild Card, they got a 3 run jack from Derek Jeter to take 2 of 3 from Boston 4-3. New York is 4.5 behind the Red Sox, they send Phil Hughes to the hill in Baltimore against Daniel Cabrera, they beat Toronto 8-6 in 10. The Jays send Dustin McGowan against Boston and Tim Wakefield. Jim Thome hit his 500th career homer, a walkoff to lead the White Sox over the Angels 9-7. Volquez and Slowey duel in Minnesota, Texas got 7 RBI's from Michael Young in an 11-9 win over Oakland. 17 game winner Kelvim Escobar goes tonight against Tampa who beat Seattle 9-2.
The Phillies have won 8 straight against the Mets including a 10-6 win over New York where the Mets committed 6 errors and walked 11 batters. The Phils are 3.5 back, and they send Kyle Kendrick on the mound in St Louis, the Mets are in Washington. The Nats got shut out by Tim Hudson and the Braves 3-0, they pitch John Smoltz at home against BK Kim and Florida. The Fish got fried 13-0 against the Rockies, Todd Helton hit career homer 300. The Cubs topped St Louis 4-2, they play Cincy who beat Milwaukee to give Chicago a 1 game lead in the NL Central. Milwaukee pitches Yovani Gallardo in Houston. The Giants lost to now 18 game winner Jake Peavy and the Padres 5-1, Frisco faces Brandon Webb and Arizona. The Snakes beat the Dodgers 6-1 and own a 2 game division lead.
Transactions
The Indians recalled Jeremy Sowers, Washington claimed Enrique Gonzalez off of waivers.
Less than 2 weeks left, enjoy the games.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
NFL Daily Presents- The SOS Week 2 ATS Picks
10-6 is respectable for week 1, but I expect better from myself from here on out.
- Let's use some logic here, shall we. If Cleveland couldn't stop the offense of the Steelers, then they most likely won't be able to stop the vaunted Bengals attack. Though I think Winslow and Edwards could have nice games for the Browns, they don't really have a QB to keep them in the game. Carson Palmer and co. should run wild like stallions in the open field. As beautiful and poetic as that sounds, the result will be just about the opposite for Cleveland. 4.5 is a giveaway for Cincy, and I'll gladly accept. Don't be surprised if Mr. Quinn makes an appearance in the 4th.
- Something tells me that the Titans offense won't rush for 275 yards for a 2nd consecutive week. Just a hunch. And just like Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne stuck it to former Indy starter Jason David last week, they get to do the exact same thing to 2006 Colts starting corner Nick Harper. Peyton Manning still remembers getting upset by Tennessee last year, and revenge will be sweet especially when Bob Sanders gets to VY in the open field. Like Joseph Addai scampering off into the sunset, I'll take the Colts and 7.5 with me to the bank.
- The Niners and Rams is the toughest game of the week in my mind. I've been going back and forth all week, but I believe that the deciding factor in my mind will be that Alex Smith has to go on the road and beat a division opponent. Now that's a tall task for a young QB, and I think that Stephen Jackson will have a nice performance. This game for the Rams offense could be a preview of what's to come for the rest of the season. The young St Louis offensive line will be put to the test to protect Marc Bulger without Orlando Pace. This is a huge game with huge question marks, and the conservative in me will side with the home club, Rams and the 3.5.
- Will the Giants have week 1 stud Eli Manning under center this week against a young and hungry (youngry, just thought of that one) Packers defense? Will it risk further injury to Manning's shoulder, or will it add insult to injury if the team goes to 0-2 with fat camp failure Jared Lorenzen at the helm? These are the questions posed to embattled Giants coach and taskmaster Tom Coughlin against a Green Bay club high off their win over Philly last week. Because of the injuries at RB with Jacobs and Jackson injured on both sides, the contest may turn into an air affair. And when a passing battles ensues, SOS will put his money on the side of the gunslinger Brett Favre. But Cheese Heads should not overlook the talent of Derrick Ward, who will have to be the x-factor if Big Blue wants to even their record. There are too many questions surrounding the Giants for me to side with them, so I'll go with the youngry Packers.
- As impressive as Pittsburgh was last week against the Browns, Buffalo showed me something in defeat last week. They showed me that they can hang with a tough Broncos team and that a 9.5 point spread is inflated like an NBA contract due to the pounding that Pittsburgh put on Cleveland last week. I think that the Bills will hang tough if JP Losman manages the game, and doesn't put out an absolute stinker like he did last week. I'll take Buffalo to cover here.
- If y'all haven't noticed, Tampa Bay's not very good. If you want to jump on the Saints Are Finished Bandwagon, go right ahead. Since I like being correct, I'll stay off of it and point out that the Saints are a lot more then 3.5 points better then the Bucs. That offensive performacne against Indy was a fluke, a one week stroke of utter failure. Don't be fooled by the people who say that New Orleans is in for a down year, Sean Payton will light a fire under their asses and the Saints will romp to victory plus 3.5.
- Carolina-Houston is another interesting game. Matt Schaub impressed me last week, but the Panthers defense did a hell of a job against the Rams O last week. Look for Peppers and Jenkins to have big days with a little Jon Beason on the side. Look for the Carolina running game to continue their good run, and the Panthers should win comfortably plus the 6.5.
- Jacksonville and Atlanta both played really poorly last week, and for some reason I expect the Falcons to cover 10 points. If they can't do that, they'll be the first team on my s-list.
- I'll give Arizona credit for hanging tough with the Niners last week, but Alex Smith was pretty bad and I don't expect Matt Hasslebeck to play that poorly. Alexander will pound the rock, and the new Safety acquisitions of Seattle will pay dividends this week. 'Hawks plus the 3.5.
- I'll take favorites Detroit, Dallas, Denver, Baltimore, Chicago, and New England, and I'll take 'dog Washington to cover the 7.5 against Philly.
- Let's use some logic here, shall we. If Cleveland couldn't stop the offense of the Steelers, then they most likely won't be able to stop the vaunted Bengals attack. Though I think Winslow and Edwards could have nice games for the Browns, they don't really have a QB to keep them in the game. Carson Palmer and co. should run wild like stallions in the open field. As beautiful and poetic as that sounds, the result will be just about the opposite for Cleveland. 4.5 is a giveaway for Cincy, and I'll gladly accept. Don't be surprised if Mr. Quinn makes an appearance in the 4th.
- Something tells me that the Titans offense won't rush for 275 yards for a 2nd consecutive week. Just a hunch. And just like Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne stuck it to former Indy starter Jason David last week, they get to do the exact same thing to 2006 Colts starting corner Nick Harper. Peyton Manning still remembers getting upset by Tennessee last year, and revenge will be sweet especially when Bob Sanders gets to VY in the open field. Like Joseph Addai scampering off into the sunset, I'll take the Colts and 7.5 with me to the bank.
- The Niners and Rams is the toughest game of the week in my mind. I've been going back and forth all week, but I believe that the deciding factor in my mind will be that Alex Smith has to go on the road and beat a division opponent. Now that's a tall task for a young QB, and I think that Stephen Jackson will have a nice performance. This game for the Rams offense could be a preview of what's to come for the rest of the season. The young St Louis offensive line will be put to the test to protect Marc Bulger without Orlando Pace. This is a huge game with huge question marks, and the conservative in me will side with the home club, Rams and the 3.5.
- Will the Giants have week 1 stud Eli Manning under center this week against a young and hungry (youngry, just thought of that one) Packers defense? Will it risk further injury to Manning's shoulder, or will it add insult to injury if the team goes to 0-2 with fat camp failure Jared Lorenzen at the helm? These are the questions posed to embattled Giants coach and taskmaster Tom Coughlin against a Green Bay club high off their win over Philly last week. Because of the injuries at RB with Jacobs and Jackson injured on both sides, the contest may turn into an air affair. And when a passing battles ensues, SOS will put his money on the side of the gunslinger Brett Favre. But Cheese Heads should not overlook the talent of Derrick Ward, who will have to be the x-factor if Big Blue wants to even their record. There are too many questions surrounding the Giants for me to side with them, so I'll go with the youngry Packers.
- As impressive as Pittsburgh was last week against the Browns, Buffalo showed me something in defeat last week. They showed me that they can hang with a tough Broncos team and that a 9.5 point spread is inflated like an NBA contract due to the pounding that Pittsburgh put on Cleveland last week. I think that the Bills will hang tough if JP Losman manages the game, and doesn't put out an absolute stinker like he did last week. I'll take Buffalo to cover here.
- If y'all haven't noticed, Tampa Bay's not very good. If you want to jump on the Saints Are Finished Bandwagon, go right ahead. Since I like being correct, I'll stay off of it and point out that the Saints are a lot more then 3.5 points better then the Bucs. That offensive performacne against Indy was a fluke, a one week stroke of utter failure. Don't be fooled by the people who say that New Orleans is in for a down year, Sean Payton will light a fire under their asses and the Saints will romp to victory plus 3.5.
- Carolina-Houston is another interesting game. Matt Schaub impressed me last week, but the Panthers defense did a hell of a job against the Rams O last week. Look for Peppers and Jenkins to have big days with a little Jon Beason on the side. Look for the Carolina running game to continue their good run, and the Panthers should win comfortably plus the 6.5.
- Jacksonville and Atlanta both played really poorly last week, and for some reason I expect the Falcons to cover 10 points. If they can't do that, they'll be the first team on my s-list.
- I'll give Arizona credit for hanging tough with the Niners last week, but Alex Smith was pretty bad and I don't expect Matt Hasslebeck to play that poorly. Alexander will pound the rock, and the new Safety acquisitions of Seattle will pay dividends this week. 'Hawks plus the 3.5.
- I'll take favorites Detroit, Dallas, Denver, Baltimore, Chicago, and New England, and I'll take 'dog Washington to cover the 7.5 against Philly.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Around The Majors- Wednesday
The playoff push continues. I go through last night's games, go through some news and notes including one very questionable decision, we'll see what's on tap today, and look at this week's fantasy studs & duds.
Tuesday Recap
Marlon Byrd homered twice and drove in 3 as Texas tamed the Tigers 13-6 in the first of a twinbill at Comerica. In the 2nd game, Detroit scored 3 in the first and won behind Jair Jurrjens 4-1. Vlad Guerrero homered twice and drove in 4 as the Angels blasted Baltimore 10-5. Tampa got off to a 9-1 lead, but Boston came all the way back to win 16-10 behind 3 ribs by Youkilis and Cash and 2 RBI's each by Ellsbury, Pedroia, Crisp, and Lugo. The Yankees broke it open with a Jason Giambi slam in the 5th and beat Toronto 9-2. Johnny Damon drove in a pair for New York. Scott Baker pitched a solid game as the Twins defeated the Royals 6-3. Travis Hafner drove in 3 as the Indians shellacked Chicago 8-3. Juan Uribe homered twice to account for all the White Sox runs. Shannon Stewart and Mike Piazza each drove in 2 as Oakland socked Seattle 7-4.
Matt Holliday homered twice and drove in 3 as Colorado filleted the Phillies 8-2. Ryan Braun drove in 3 as Yovani Gallardo pitched the Brewers past the Pirates 6-1. Mike Jacobs drove in 5 and Hanley Ramirez homered twice as Florida walloped Washington 13-8. Adam Dunn hit 2 homers while driving in 5 as the Reds raked the Cardinals 7-2. Orlando Hernandez allowed 8 runs in 3 innings as the Braves mauled the Mets 13-5. Teixeira and Harris each drove in 3 for Atlanta. A Luke Scott triple off of Ryan Dempster in the 11th gave Houston a 5-4 win over the Cubs. Hunter Pence drove in 2 for the Astros. Jake Peavy won his 17th as the Padres pounded the Dodgers 9-4. Marcus Giles, Khalil Greene, and Kevin Kouzmanoff each drove home a pair for San Diego. A Pedro Feliz sac fly off of new Snakes reliever Bob Wickman gave the Giants a 2-1 win over Arizona.
News and Notes
- Roger Clemens has been suffering shoulder issues but is recovering and will likely start on Sunday night against Boston.
- In the idiot move of the year, the White Sox gave Ozzie Guillen a 4 year contract extension through 2012. Chicago has been struggling all year, and you reward your fool of a manager? And to top this absurdity, it gives the rambling morom more job security then GM Kenny Williams. This move has just clinched the Pale Hose sucking for a long time.
- Frank Coonelly has been named the President of the Pirates. Rueben Amaro Jr seems to be the leading candidate for the GM job.
- Tom Glavine is unsure whether he'll return next season.
- Gary Matthews Jr will be out at least 5 games with a sprained ankle.
Wednesday On Tap
12:30 today has Dave Bush and Milwaukee playing against Gorzalanny and the Pirates. Westbrook and Vazquez go at 2pm as the Indians face the White Sox. Escobar faces Cabrera, Kyle Kendrick faces the Rockies, Jon Lester battles the Rays, and Smoltz faces Maine at 7pm (ESPN). Edinson Volquez battles Detroit, Mussina and McGowan, Hill for the Cubs in Houston, and Haren faces Batista in Seattle. NL West is on, Germano faces Lowe in LA and Brandon Webb pitches against the Giants.
Fantasy Studs & Duds
Hitting Studs
1) Alex Rodriguez, 3B, NYY
2) Carlos Pena, 1B, TB
3) Matt Holliday, OF, COL
4) Pat Burrell, OF, PHI
5) Curtis Granderson, OF, DET
Hitting Duds (min 19 ab's)
1) Felipe Lopez, IF, WSH
2) Carlos Guillen, IF, DET
3) Joey Gathwright, OF, KC
4) Nook Logan, OF, WSH
5) Yadier Molina, C, STL
Pitching Studs
1) Yovani Gallardo, SP, MIL
2) Vicente Padilla, SP, TEX
3) Fausto Carmona, SP, CLE
4) Joe Blanton, SP, OAK
5) Tony Armas, SP, PIT
Pitching Duds
1) Dave Bush, SP, MIL
2) Mark Mulder, SP, STL
3) Daisuke Matsuzaka, SP, BOS
4) Orlando Hernandez, SP, NYM
5) Jeremy Bonderman, SP, DET
Tuesday Recap
Marlon Byrd homered twice and drove in 3 as Texas tamed the Tigers 13-6 in the first of a twinbill at Comerica. In the 2nd game, Detroit scored 3 in the first and won behind Jair Jurrjens 4-1. Vlad Guerrero homered twice and drove in 4 as the Angels blasted Baltimore 10-5. Tampa got off to a 9-1 lead, but Boston came all the way back to win 16-10 behind 3 ribs by Youkilis and Cash and 2 RBI's each by Ellsbury, Pedroia, Crisp, and Lugo. The Yankees broke it open with a Jason Giambi slam in the 5th and beat Toronto 9-2. Johnny Damon drove in a pair for New York. Scott Baker pitched a solid game as the Twins defeated the Royals 6-3. Travis Hafner drove in 3 as the Indians shellacked Chicago 8-3. Juan Uribe homered twice to account for all the White Sox runs. Shannon Stewart and Mike Piazza each drove in 2 as Oakland socked Seattle 7-4.
Matt Holliday homered twice and drove in 3 as Colorado filleted the Phillies 8-2. Ryan Braun drove in 3 as Yovani Gallardo pitched the Brewers past the Pirates 6-1. Mike Jacobs drove in 5 and Hanley Ramirez homered twice as Florida walloped Washington 13-8. Adam Dunn hit 2 homers while driving in 5 as the Reds raked the Cardinals 7-2. Orlando Hernandez allowed 8 runs in 3 innings as the Braves mauled the Mets 13-5. Teixeira and Harris each drove in 3 for Atlanta. A Luke Scott triple off of Ryan Dempster in the 11th gave Houston a 5-4 win over the Cubs. Hunter Pence drove in 2 for the Astros. Jake Peavy won his 17th as the Padres pounded the Dodgers 9-4. Marcus Giles, Khalil Greene, and Kevin Kouzmanoff each drove home a pair for San Diego. A Pedro Feliz sac fly off of new Snakes reliever Bob Wickman gave the Giants a 2-1 win over Arizona.
News and Notes
- Roger Clemens has been suffering shoulder issues but is recovering and will likely start on Sunday night against Boston.
- In the idiot move of the year, the White Sox gave Ozzie Guillen a 4 year contract extension through 2012. Chicago has been struggling all year, and you reward your fool of a manager? And to top this absurdity, it gives the rambling morom more job security then GM Kenny Williams. This move has just clinched the Pale Hose sucking for a long time.
- Frank Coonelly has been named the President of the Pirates. Rueben Amaro Jr seems to be the leading candidate for the GM job.
- Tom Glavine is unsure whether he'll return next season.
- Gary Matthews Jr will be out at least 5 games with a sprained ankle.
Wednesday On Tap
12:30 today has Dave Bush and Milwaukee playing against Gorzalanny and the Pirates. Westbrook and Vazquez go at 2pm as the Indians face the White Sox. Escobar faces Cabrera, Kyle Kendrick faces the Rockies, Jon Lester battles the Rays, and Smoltz faces Maine at 7pm (ESPN). Edinson Volquez battles Detroit, Mussina and McGowan, Hill for the Cubs in Houston, and Haren faces Batista in Seattle. NL West is on, Germano faces Lowe in LA and Brandon Webb pitches against the Giants.
Fantasy Studs & Duds
Hitting Studs
1) Alex Rodriguez, 3B, NYY
2) Carlos Pena, 1B, TB
3) Matt Holliday, OF, COL
4) Pat Burrell, OF, PHI
5) Curtis Granderson, OF, DET
Hitting Duds (min 19 ab's)
1) Felipe Lopez, IF, WSH
2) Carlos Guillen, IF, DET
3) Joey Gathwright, OF, KC
4) Nook Logan, OF, WSH
5) Yadier Molina, C, STL
Pitching Studs
1) Yovani Gallardo, SP, MIL
2) Vicente Padilla, SP, TEX
3) Fausto Carmona, SP, CLE
4) Joe Blanton, SP, OAK
5) Tony Armas, SP, PIT
Pitching Duds
1) Dave Bush, SP, MIL
2) Mark Mulder, SP, STL
3) Daisuke Matsuzaka, SP, BOS
4) Orlando Hernandez, SP, NYM
5) Jeremy Bonderman, SP, DET
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