Thursday, December 29, 2011
WIN OR GO HOME....
Alright, I'm back and better than before. School haad kicked my tail for a minute but I won in the end. Can you say 4.0?? Can I get a 'whoop,whoop?' But on Sunday marks the genesis of the year 2012 and the end of the 2011 NFL regular season. This day has such dicotmy with the beginning of a new year and yet the end of the regular season and some teams season. In the NFC, we have the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys playing the last playoff spot at 8:15 p.m. In the AFC, we have about 5 teams competing for 2 spots. Denver and Oakland for playing for the division. While, get this, Tennesse, Cincinnati, New York Jets, AND Oakland are competing the last wild card spot. So I'm gonna try to predict who will play in the playoffs and the who will watch the playoffs. Pray for me....
AFC WEST DIVISION WINNER:
The AFC West Divion Winner will be... the Oakland Raiders!!!
And here's why: The Oakland Raiders will be playing the San Diego Chargers and I feel that they will have more match up advantages against them instead of the Denver Broncos playing the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City. The speedy receivers of Oakland will be able to fly by the secondary of San Diego who got exposed against Detroit on Christmas Eve.
I really see Denver struggling against the Romeo Crennel-led defense against Denver's offense. In the the 3 losses Denver had, all the concerns people had about Tim Tebow coming from Florida are greatly visible: the suspect footwork, the inablity to read different coverages, and the enlongated release. Denver has had turnover marigin of -10 in their three losses with Tim Tebow as the starter. And ever since Todd Haley was fired, this team has been playing truly inspired ball with Romeo Crennel at the helm. I really like Kansas City playing spoiler to Denver's playoff hopes with Kyle Orton throwing touchdowns and the Kansas City D being ridiculously opprtunistic.
AFC WILD CARD WINNER:
The AFC Wild Card Winner is... the Cincinnati Bengals!!!!
The Bengals are in complete control of theor playoff destiny. It's not the Jets because they need to win and NEED a Cincinati plus a Miami loss AND a Oakland or Denver loss. The Jets need too many things to happen to their playoff dreams to manifest. Because first of all, I don't see Oakland or Tennessee losing, so that just crushed it right then and there. If Cincy wins, they're in. How simple can it be???
NFC EAST DIVISION WINNER:
The NFC East Divion Winner is... The New York Giants!!!
And this is why: Tony Romo's throwing hand is swole. And even if the trainers of the Dallas Cowboys get the swelling down, he still has the to grip that ball to throw it and we are uncertain of the security of his grasp on the football. Plus, we must add in the fact that rhis game is played at night outdoors in under 40 degree weather. But there is also the inconsistencies of the secondary of Dallas because they don't have a corner like a Darelle Revis to shut down a side of the football field to make a quarterback go to his next option. So, I believe that this will be a game like truly caters to the strength of the Giants: their pass rush and their passing game.
Well, I'm through for now. I gotta go get my laundry out of the washer and dryer...
Friday, October 28, 2011
EATING MY WORDS...
I usually don't like to admit when I'm wrong, But I am seriously eat some serious crow with the first half of this NFL season. Maybe I'll be right about some of my preseason thoughts,but right now I need to get some crow because there are 3 things I can't believe I did not see coming. So, here what I'm talking about:
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: I thought that they woould finish with about the same record they have 2 years ago:7-9 with the premise of they will be better the following year. No, they're better this year. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has truly implemented a system that gets the best of all his players and the upper management is doing a great job in the personel and scouting department. This team rushes the ball like the Pittsburgh Steelers from the 70s and they dont't miss tackles or assignments.Plus, their rookies have been stellar. Rookie Kendall Hunter could easily start for many teams (i.e. Detroit, Miami,Cleveland, etc.) but he is #2 back of the season in keeping Frank Gore's carries down and his health up. But Rookie DE Aldon Smith is major this season. I orginally thought they should have draft CB Prince Amukamara but him being injured shows that they made the right decision. Also, getting CB Carlos Rogers from Washington has been paying dividends. So, seding major dap to the whole 49ers organization.
BUFFALO BILLS:
I thought they would finish last in their division, but if the playoffs would start today, they are in. They have found some magic with the trio of QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, RB Fred Jackson, and WR Stevie Johnson. GM Marv Levy has made all the right moves in keeping head coach Chan Gailey, signing LBs Nick Barnett and Shawne Merriman and CB Drayton Florence, and drafting DL Marcel Dareus. NT Kyle Williams is probably one of the best defesive linemen you probably never heard of and this team just keeps getting better. This Bills team gives me glimpses of the Bills team from 1988-1993 but maybe there will be a better outcome than "Wide Right". Big fist bump to Buffalo for the team and the wings.
CAM NEWTON:
I thought QB Cam Newton would probably have some setbacks in his rookie season in Carolina, but he just doesn't want to play that way. No rookie QB has had 2 400 passing yard games in a season, not even the great Peyton Manning or HOFer Dan Marino. But the scary part about him is that he is getting better and not trying to learn how to get comfortable with losing. Besides, you got to be some kid of amzing to be keep WR Steve Smith in Carolina especially since he made it perfectlly clear that he wanted to leave. Now, Mr. Cameron Jerel Newton has resurrected Smith's career and gave himself a super splashy entrance. So, much dap to you for being more than what people thought you were.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: I thought that they woould finish with about the same record they have 2 years ago:7-9 with the premise of they will be better the following year. No, they're better this year. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has truly implemented a system that gets the best of all his players and the upper management is doing a great job in the personel and scouting department. This team rushes the ball like the Pittsburgh Steelers from the 70s and they dont't miss tackles or assignments.Plus, their rookies have been stellar. Rookie Kendall Hunter could easily start for many teams (i.e. Detroit, Miami,Cleveland, etc.) but he is #2 back of the season in keeping Frank Gore's carries down and his health up. But Rookie DE Aldon Smith is major this season. I orginally thought they should have draft CB Prince Amukamara but him being injured shows that they made the right decision. Also, getting CB Carlos Rogers from Washington has been paying dividends. So, seding major dap to the whole 49ers organization.
BUFFALO BILLS:
I thought they would finish last in their division, but if the playoffs would start today, they are in. They have found some magic with the trio of QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, RB Fred Jackson, and WR Stevie Johnson. GM Marv Levy has made all the right moves in keeping head coach Chan Gailey, signing LBs Nick Barnett and Shawne Merriman and CB Drayton Florence, and drafting DL Marcel Dareus. NT Kyle Williams is probably one of the best defesive linemen you probably never heard of and this team just keeps getting better. This Bills team gives me glimpses of the Bills team from 1988-1993 but maybe there will be a better outcome than "Wide Right". Big fist bump to Buffalo for the team and the wings.
CAM NEWTON:
I thought QB Cam Newton would probably have some setbacks in his rookie season in Carolina, but he just doesn't want to play that way. No rookie QB has had 2 400 passing yard games in a season, not even the great Peyton Manning or HOFer Dan Marino. But the scary part about him is that he is getting better and not trying to learn how to get comfortable with losing. Besides, you got to be some kid of amzing to be keep WR Steve Smith in Carolina especially since he made it perfectlly clear that he wanted to leave. Now, Mr. Cameron Jerel Newton has resurrected Smith's career and gave himself a super splashy entrance. So, much dap to you for being more than what people thought you were.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
FOOTBALL IS BACK!!!
Alright, football is back!!! Yes!! All is right with the world. So, the NFL season starts in 2 weeks and I'm so giddy about it. We're approaching Week 3 in the preseason and see starters played for a prolonged perod, maybe all of the first half of the game. But, I feel it's so most important that I discuss the regular season which is getting closer every day. Now, I will try to predict how teams will finish from first to last. PRAY FOR ME...
THE AFC NORTH
PREVIEW: Alright, this division is truly a two-team match. The other teams in the division is rebuilding with absolute emphasis of the word.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers are not losing the division. These speedy receivers in Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown will add another dimension to their offense we haven't seen since the Steelers of the 70s with John Stallworth and Lynn Swann. They still, in my eyes, have the best fron 7 in the entire league. But I get nervous with them in pass coverage for their secondary because Troy Polamalu is average in pass covewrage and their corners are sure tacklers but bad ball skills. but their front 7 is so major that it will not be a hindrance. 12-4 for those in the black and yellow jerseys...
2. Baltimore Ravens: I think QB Joe Flacco will take great strides this years with the opening up of the offensive playbook. Now, they lost their defensive coordinator Greg Mattison to the University of Michigan so it a slight setback of their schemes. But the veteran leadership on defense of Ray lewis will keep this team focused throughtout the season. They will be a wilcard team once again at 11-5...
3. Cleveland Browns: I love all the moves that Team President Mike Holmgren. I believe that they will make the division interesting with their competitiveness but it won't be enough. They need more better players and that's why they will be 6-10...
4. Cincinnati Bengals: This team stinks. I don't know what else to say. They lost their starting quarterback, the star wide receiver, and their best defender. Their cupboard is really bare. They will end up the #1 pick of the 2012 NFL Draft. Their record will be 2-14 if they're lucky...
THE AFC SOUTH
PREVIEW: The division has been completely dominated by the Colts. However, the coxswain of the Colts, Peyton Manning, is recovering from neck surgery in the offseason. So, will this be the year that the Houston Texans take that grown step into being a serious force in the division? Will David Garrard be able to keep a death grip on the starting quaterback job? But the million-dollar question is: Will Titans RB Chris Johnson get a new deal and end his holdout?
1.Houston Texans:I believe that this is the year that the Texans put it all together. They finally address the defense in the draft and the new defensive coordinator in Wade Phillips. Also, they got the one of the best free agent signings that people are not talking about in Jonathan Joseph. And the offense is still as major as ever if Arian Foster is not ready for the start of the season. I see them going 11-5...
2.Tennessee Titans:I do believe the Titans will play Chris Johnson and he will get a new contract and be there for the start of the season. But they do not have enough offense to keep up with Houston. In my brown eyes, they are going 9-7...
3.Indianapolis Colts:I don't think Peyton Manning will be ready for the regular season. So, they will lose more games this year than what they have lost in the last 3 years. because their defense isn't as good as it was during their Super Bowl runm. They are going 7-9...
4.Jacksonville Jaguars:
THE AFC EAST
PREVIEW: The New England Patriots have made some subtle moves in the offseason. But, I do not think these moves that they made will keep them atop the division. This will be the year that the Jets will win the the division. The Dolphins and the Bills will not be a major dceiding factor.
1.New York Jets: I believe, no I guarantee (Rex Ryan will love that) that the Jets will win the division. They couldn't get Nnamdi but they kept CB Antonio Cromartie who is no slouch. The signing of Plaxico will give Mark Sanchez a nice safety blanket as a receiver. Their defense is still quite stellar to me. They are going 11-5...
2.New England Patriots:The Patriots have this the division 8 of the last 10 years.But they will not win this year. For the moves that they made with the pick ups of WR Chad Ochocinco and DL Albert Haynesworth, they release the team sack leader in LB Tully Banta-Cain. So, how will ntheygenerate a pass rush without blitzing? I am not concern about their offense because i rally like their young tight ends. But when they won the 3 Super Bowls, their defense carried them and Tom Brady didn't lose the game. Now in 2011, their offense has to be perfect and that won't be enough. The Pats' record will be 10-6
3.Miami Dolphins: This teamis a real enigma. Last year, they went 1-7 at home and 6-2 on the road. But I love the drafting the other Poncey twin and RB Daniel Thomas and the acquistion of RB Reggie Bush. I believe the offense will be more potent but Cameron Wake needs more sidekicks on defense. I do love their cornerback tandem but that's not enough. So, in the end, they will be 8-8...
4.Buffalo Bills:They are rebuilding on their offense, defense, and special teams. But I do like their QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and WR Steve Johnson. The defense is a work in progress so their record will be 3-13...
THE AFC WEST
PREVIEW:
1.San Diego Chargers: I know last year their special teams was their undoing but I think they will not have the same mistakes this year. If RB Ryan Mathews stays healthy this season, I think they will have the most exciting offfense in the AFC. I think they will have a better record in the division and the best record in the league. 14-2 record for the Bolts...
2.Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs surprised everyone last year wining the division. But they might not be a wild card this season. I love the pickups of WR Steve Breaston and their draft is potential heavy. So, they will 9-7...
3.Oakland Raiders: The Raiders are without Pro Bowl Nnamdi Asomugha and that's hurts their defense as a whole especially since San Diego's QB Phillip Rivers threw for 4,000 yards with people whose names I can not remember right now. I think RB Darren McFadden will have a really good year contigient on his health. So, they will be 8-8 again.
4.Denver Broncos:
THE NFC NORTH
PREVIEW: This division will be so interesting to watch with all the grat quarterbacks in it. They have the opportunity to have 2 teams in the postseason.
1. Green Bay Packers: I think the Pack are better this year than the team that won the Super Bowl. Their offense cupboard is over-flowing with TE JerMichael FInley healthy and rookie WR Randall Cobb. I know defensive backs coach Ray Hoton is no longer there but they will not miss a beat on defense. I see this team being the #1 seed in the NFC with a 12-4 record...
2.Detroit Lions: This is NOT the same Lions we have been used to seeing for the past 10 years. If QB Matthew Stafford stays healthy this whole season, this offense can be the second best in the division with stud receiver Calvin Johnson and speedy back Jahvid Best. In my opinion, this is the best fron 4 in the league, so if the back 7 shows consistently, this could be top 10 defense. I know a lot analysts is surping the Kool-aid and rightfully so. If everything falls right in place, they could 10-6 competing for a wild card spot...
3.Chicago Bears: I love MLB Brian Urlachler and their defense. I do not like their offensive line. They let go Pro Bowl C Olin Kreutz to New Orleans and it hurt them in the end. QB Jay Cutler is going to get killed again because GM Jerry Angelo is so cheap and will not spend for recievers od offensive linemen. I know they won the division last year, but it's not happening this year. 7-9 will be their record...
4. Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings have the best running back (Adrian Peterson) and a great defense but it won't be enough. I don't know if QB Donovan McNabb can turn back to 2003 and make magic happen since their best receiver in sidney Rice is a Seahawk. So, they will be 6-10...
THE NFC SOUTH: THIS IS THE TOUGHEST DIVISION IN FOOTBALL!!! I think the NFC South division games are going to be the most exciting games to watch this season. This division could have 3 teams in the playoffs in the postseason. And the tradition of no back-to-back division winners will continue.
1.New Orleans Saints: This is most complete team in the division. They are sound on offense with QB Drew Brees running the show, stout on defense with MLB Jonathan Vilma relaying on the calls, and RB Darren Sproles gives them a added puch on special teams that they haven't have since RB Reggie Bush's rookie season. I know the division is tough, but they will end up 12-4 as the #2 seed...
2.Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons made a super splashy move in the draft trading up from 27 to 6 and giving away 5 draft picks for WR Julio Jones. But the offseason move I like was the signing of DE Ray Edwards on the over side of DE John Abraham. But their secondary is still a major issue with Drew Brees and Josh Freeman in the division. But I still like them to be in the playoffs with a 11-5 record...
3.Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Last year the Bucs were 10-6 and a wild card contender. But that 10-6 was deceptive because they only beat one team with a record over .500. the have a great young nucleus on offense with QB Josh Freeman, WR Mike Williams, and RB LeGarrette Blount. The D is playing some old schhol "Buc Ball" with stud CB Aqib Talib. I don't see being 10-6 again but they will be a good looking team at 8-8...
4. Carolina Panthers: Well, the Panthers will look good at moments this season with that great offensive line and stud RBs Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. The front office make some great moves in the offseason in signing TEs Jeremy Shockey and Greg Olsen to assist the quarterback maturation process for rookie QB Cam Newton. They will be better than they wee last year with a 5-11 record...
THE NFC EAST
PREVIEW: This was once considered the toughest division on the NFL and it's gonna be a dog fight to come out of top. I see the division winner being the only team making to the playoffs.
1.Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles were the offseason champions with the signings of CB Nnamdi Asomugha, DE Jason Babin, RB Ronnie Brown, QB Vince Young, and WR Steve Smith. I think the Eagles got the better end of the trade Kevin Kolb-Dominique Rogers Cromartie trade giving them one of the best corner grouping since the 1960s Lions with Asante Samuel, Nnamdi Asomugha, and Dominique Rogers-Cromartie in Eagle unis. But I think the offense will be fine but it will take awhile for the defense to find their sea legs. 11-5 for the Eagles...
2.Dallas Cowboys: The Wade Phillips era is a thing of the past and Jason Garrett is changing everything and I like what he's doing. But I think they are 1 maybe 2 years away from being seriously major. I love the new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan but he needs more toys to play with besides OLB DeMarcus Ware and CB Mike Jenkins. The Rob Ryan defense places a lot of pressure on the secondary that the are not ready for. Plus, this offensive line is extra young and QB Tony Romo night have to be running for his life to get the ball to WRs Dez Bryant and Miles Austin. 9-7 will be their record...
3.New York Giants: Okay, this team shows great flashes in September and October and tank in November and December except when they won the Super Bowl. But I do believe that history will repeat itself since WR Steve Smith is now a Eagle and DE Osi Umenyiora wants to be traded. While they have the feelgood story of the league with LB Mark Herzlich on their team, it won't be enough to be keep head coach Tom Coughlin seat cool. 8-8 record for the G-Men
4.Washington Redskins: This is the first year in a long time when the Redskins kept their draft picks and didn't spend like crazy. Head coach and offensive coordinator likes their QBs in Rex Grossman and John Beck, but I'm not sold. 6-10 will be their record...
THE NFC WEST
PREVIEW: This division will up for grabs. Every team in the division has a huge fatal flaw. The divion winner will be the only team in the postseason. Watch...
1.St. Louis Rams: This is the least flawed team of the division. I think QB Sam Bradford is best quarterback in the division. Their offense is the best in the divsion. So, they will be 9-7 in the playoffs.
2.Arizona Cardinals: So, the Cards traded away CB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie for QB Kevin Kolb thinking he is the missing piece in their quest back to the postseason. But, that won't be enough regardless on how fantastical WR Larry Fitzgerald is. Their defense needs a lot of major assistance even though they drafted the best corner in the draft in Patrick Peterson. So, they will be much improved at 8-8...
3.San Fancisco 49ers: The 49ers have a new coach and great running back. So, they won't be great but they won't be horrible. I'm not sure if Jim Harbaugh can properly rehabilitate QB Alex Smith into a better quarterback. The signing of WR Braylon Edwards could be feast of famine if he shows up and not just his uniform. But I believe that the niners will compete in every game and not be plagued with the mental errors of last season. So, they will be 6-10...
4.Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks getting rid off Matt Hasselbeck was probably one of the worst decisions of the offseason. Their defense is not stellar. While QB Tavaris Jackson and WR Sidney Rice are reunited with offensive coordinator Darryl Bevel, this will not not be good. Last year, they overachieved with winning the division and the shocker win in the playoffs over the New Orleans Saints, they will come back to earth this season. 5-11 will be their end result...
THE AFC NORTH
PREVIEW: Alright, this division is truly a two-team match. The other teams in the division is rebuilding with absolute emphasis of the word.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers are not losing the division. These speedy receivers in Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown will add another dimension to their offense we haven't seen since the Steelers of the 70s with John Stallworth and Lynn Swann. They still, in my eyes, have the best fron 7 in the entire league. But I get nervous with them in pass coverage for their secondary because Troy Polamalu is average in pass covewrage and their corners are sure tacklers but bad ball skills. but their front 7 is so major that it will not be a hindrance. 12-4 for those in the black and yellow jerseys...
2. Baltimore Ravens: I think QB Joe Flacco will take great strides this years with the opening up of the offensive playbook. Now, they lost their defensive coordinator Greg Mattison to the University of Michigan so it a slight setback of their schemes. But the veteran leadership on defense of Ray lewis will keep this team focused throughtout the season. They will be a wilcard team once again at 11-5...
3. Cleveland Browns: I love all the moves that Team President Mike Holmgren. I believe that they will make the division interesting with their competitiveness but it won't be enough. They need more better players and that's why they will be 6-10...
4. Cincinnati Bengals: This team stinks. I don't know what else to say. They lost their starting quarterback, the star wide receiver, and their best defender. Their cupboard is really bare. They will end up the #1 pick of the 2012 NFL Draft. Their record will be 2-14 if they're lucky...
THE AFC SOUTH
PREVIEW: The division has been completely dominated by the Colts. However, the coxswain of the Colts, Peyton Manning, is recovering from neck surgery in the offseason. So, will this be the year that the Houston Texans take that grown step into being a serious force in the division? Will David Garrard be able to keep a death grip on the starting quaterback job? But the million-dollar question is: Will Titans RB Chris Johnson get a new deal and end his holdout?
1.Houston Texans:I believe that this is the year that the Texans put it all together. They finally address the defense in the draft and the new defensive coordinator in Wade Phillips. Also, they got the one of the best free agent signings that people are not talking about in Jonathan Joseph. And the offense is still as major as ever if Arian Foster is not ready for the start of the season. I see them going 11-5...
2.Tennessee Titans:I do believe the Titans will play Chris Johnson and he will get a new contract and be there for the start of the season. But they do not have enough offense to keep up with Houston. In my brown eyes, they are going 9-7...
3.Indianapolis Colts:I don't think Peyton Manning will be ready for the regular season. So, they will lose more games this year than what they have lost in the last 3 years. because their defense isn't as good as it was during their Super Bowl runm. They are going 7-9...
4.Jacksonville Jaguars:
THE AFC EAST
PREVIEW: The New England Patriots have made some subtle moves in the offseason. But, I do not think these moves that they made will keep them atop the division. This will be the year that the Jets will win the the division. The Dolphins and the Bills will not be a major dceiding factor.
1.New York Jets: I believe, no I guarantee (Rex Ryan will love that) that the Jets will win the division. They couldn't get Nnamdi but they kept CB Antonio Cromartie who is no slouch. The signing of Plaxico will give Mark Sanchez a nice safety blanket as a receiver. Their defense is still quite stellar to me. They are going 11-5...
2.New England Patriots:The Patriots have this the division 8 of the last 10 years.But they will not win this year. For the moves that they made with the pick ups of WR Chad Ochocinco and DL Albert Haynesworth, they release the team sack leader in LB Tully Banta-Cain. So, how will ntheygenerate a pass rush without blitzing? I am not concern about their offense because i rally like their young tight ends. But when they won the 3 Super Bowls, their defense carried them and Tom Brady didn't lose the game. Now in 2011, their offense has to be perfect and that won't be enough. The Pats' record will be 10-6
3.Miami Dolphins: This teamis a real enigma. Last year, they went 1-7 at home and 6-2 on the road. But I love the drafting the other Poncey twin and RB Daniel Thomas and the acquistion of RB Reggie Bush. I believe the offense will be more potent but Cameron Wake needs more sidekicks on defense. I do love their cornerback tandem but that's not enough. So, in the end, they will be 8-8...
4.Buffalo Bills:They are rebuilding on their offense, defense, and special teams. But I do like their QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and WR Steve Johnson. The defense is a work in progress so their record will be 3-13...
THE AFC WEST
PREVIEW:
1.San Diego Chargers: I know last year their special teams was their undoing but I think they will not have the same mistakes this year. If RB Ryan Mathews stays healthy this season, I think they will have the most exciting offfense in the AFC. I think they will have a better record in the division and the best record in the league. 14-2 record for the Bolts...
2.Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs surprised everyone last year wining the division. But they might not be a wild card this season. I love the pickups of WR Steve Breaston and their draft is potential heavy. So, they will 9-7...
3.Oakland Raiders: The Raiders are without Pro Bowl Nnamdi Asomugha and that's hurts their defense as a whole especially since San Diego's QB Phillip Rivers threw for 4,000 yards with people whose names I can not remember right now. I think RB Darren McFadden will have a really good year contigient on his health. So, they will be 8-8 again.
4.Denver Broncos:
THE NFC NORTH
PREVIEW: This division will be so interesting to watch with all the grat quarterbacks in it. They have the opportunity to have 2 teams in the postseason.
1. Green Bay Packers: I think the Pack are better this year than the team that won the Super Bowl. Their offense cupboard is over-flowing with TE JerMichael FInley healthy and rookie WR Randall Cobb. I know defensive backs coach Ray Hoton is no longer there but they will not miss a beat on defense. I see this team being the #1 seed in the NFC with a 12-4 record...
2.Detroit Lions: This is NOT the same Lions we have been used to seeing for the past 10 years. If QB Matthew Stafford stays healthy this whole season, this offense can be the second best in the division with stud receiver Calvin Johnson and speedy back Jahvid Best. In my opinion, this is the best fron 4 in the league, so if the back 7 shows consistently, this could be top 10 defense. I know a lot analysts is surping the Kool-aid and rightfully so. If everything falls right in place, they could 10-6 competing for a wild card spot...
3.Chicago Bears: I love MLB Brian Urlachler and their defense. I do not like their offensive line. They let go Pro Bowl C Olin Kreutz to New Orleans and it hurt them in the end. QB Jay Cutler is going to get killed again because GM Jerry Angelo is so cheap and will not spend for recievers od offensive linemen. I know they won the division last year, but it's not happening this year. 7-9 will be their record...
4. Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings have the best running back (Adrian Peterson) and a great defense but it won't be enough. I don't know if QB Donovan McNabb can turn back to 2003 and make magic happen since their best receiver in sidney Rice is a Seahawk. So, they will be 6-10...
THE NFC SOUTH: THIS IS THE TOUGHEST DIVISION IN FOOTBALL!!! I think the NFC South division games are going to be the most exciting games to watch this season. This division could have 3 teams in the playoffs in the postseason. And the tradition of no back-to-back division winners will continue.
1.New Orleans Saints: This is most complete team in the division. They are sound on offense with QB Drew Brees running the show, stout on defense with MLB Jonathan Vilma relaying on the calls, and RB Darren Sproles gives them a added puch on special teams that they haven't have since RB Reggie Bush's rookie season. I know the division is tough, but they will end up 12-4 as the #2 seed...
2.Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons made a super splashy move in the draft trading up from 27 to 6 and giving away 5 draft picks for WR Julio Jones. But the offseason move I like was the signing of DE Ray Edwards on the over side of DE John Abraham. But their secondary is still a major issue with Drew Brees and Josh Freeman in the division. But I still like them to be in the playoffs with a 11-5 record...
3.Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Last year the Bucs were 10-6 and a wild card contender. But that 10-6 was deceptive because they only beat one team with a record over .500. the have a great young nucleus on offense with QB Josh Freeman, WR Mike Williams, and RB LeGarrette Blount. The D is playing some old schhol "Buc Ball" with stud CB Aqib Talib. I don't see being 10-6 again but they will be a good looking team at 8-8...
4. Carolina Panthers: Well, the Panthers will look good at moments this season with that great offensive line and stud RBs Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. The front office make some great moves in the offseason in signing TEs Jeremy Shockey and Greg Olsen to assist the quarterback maturation process for rookie QB Cam Newton. They will be better than they wee last year with a 5-11 record...
THE NFC EAST
PREVIEW: This was once considered the toughest division on the NFL and it's gonna be a dog fight to come out of top. I see the division winner being the only team making to the playoffs.
1.Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles were the offseason champions with the signings of CB Nnamdi Asomugha, DE Jason Babin, RB Ronnie Brown, QB Vince Young, and WR Steve Smith. I think the Eagles got the better end of the trade Kevin Kolb-Dominique Rogers Cromartie trade giving them one of the best corner grouping since the 1960s Lions with Asante Samuel, Nnamdi Asomugha, and Dominique Rogers-Cromartie in Eagle unis. But I think the offense will be fine but it will take awhile for the defense to find their sea legs. 11-5 for the Eagles...
2.Dallas Cowboys: The Wade Phillips era is a thing of the past and Jason Garrett is changing everything and I like what he's doing. But I think they are 1 maybe 2 years away from being seriously major. I love the new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan but he needs more toys to play with besides OLB DeMarcus Ware and CB Mike Jenkins. The Rob Ryan defense places a lot of pressure on the secondary that the are not ready for. Plus, this offensive line is extra young and QB Tony Romo night have to be running for his life to get the ball to WRs Dez Bryant and Miles Austin. 9-7 will be their record...
3.New York Giants: Okay, this team shows great flashes in September and October and tank in November and December except when they won the Super Bowl. But I do believe that history will repeat itself since WR Steve Smith is now a Eagle and DE Osi Umenyiora wants to be traded. While they have the feelgood story of the league with LB Mark Herzlich on their team, it won't be enough to be keep head coach Tom Coughlin seat cool. 8-8 record for the G-Men
4.Washington Redskins: This is the first year in a long time when the Redskins kept their draft picks and didn't spend like crazy. Head coach and offensive coordinator likes their QBs in Rex Grossman and John Beck, but I'm not sold. 6-10 will be their record...
THE NFC WEST
PREVIEW: This division will up for grabs. Every team in the division has a huge fatal flaw. The divion winner will be the only team in the postseason. Watch...
1.St. Louis Rams: This is the least flawed team of the division. I think QB Sam Bradford is best quarterback in the division. Their offense is the best in the divsion. So, they will be 9-7 in the playoffs.
2.Arizona Cardinals: So, the Cards traded away CB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie for QB Kevin Kolb thinking he is the missing piece in their quest back to the postseason. But, that won't be enough regardless on how fantastical WR Larry Fitzgerald is. Their defense needs a lot of major assistance even though they drafted the best corner in the draft in Patrick Peterson. So, they will be much improved at 8-8...
3.San Fancisco 49ers: The 49ers have a new coach and great running back. So, they won't be great but they won't be horrible. I'm not sure if Jim Harbaugh can properly rehabilitate QB Alex Smith into a better quarterback. The signing of WR Braylon Edwards could be feast of famine if he shows up and not just his uniform. But I believe that the niners will compete in every game and not be plagued with the mental errors of last season. So, they will be 6-10...
4.Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks getting rid off Matt Hasselbeck was probably one of the worst decisions of the offseason. Their defense is not stellar. While QB Tavaris Jackson and WR Sidney Rice are reunited with offensive coordinator Darryl Bevel, this will not not be good. Last year, they overachieved with winning the division and the shocker win in the playoffs over the New Orleans Saints, they will come back to earth this season. 5-11 will be their end result...
Monday, June 20, 2011
Wimbledon Starts!!!
Wimbledon has started today which, to me, marks the true start of summer. Rafael Nadal and Caroline Wozniacki are the #1 seeds in their respected side of the draw. So, let me give my thoughts on who I think will win.
WOMEN'S DRAW: On the womens' side, you have the Williams sisters who have won 9 out of the last 11 championships and it's hard to bet against them. Caroline Wozniacki has not done much to prove she is worthy of the #1 ranking much like former #1 player Dinara Safina. Former champ Maria Sharapova is healthy and playing quality tennis so she is a major contender. But I would most definitely put my money on Ms. Williams, Venus Williams. Because she is on at Wimbledon, there is no one, not even younger sister Serena, that can beat her.
MEN'S DRAW:Okay, the men's field is a lot different than the women's side of the draw in the fact that there a lot of potential winners. Last year's champ Roger Federer has always played well on the hollowed grass courts of Wimbledon and his backhead slice is almost undefendable here. United Kingdom native Andy Murray has all the tools to win his first major in his home country if he can cut down on the unforced errors in the big matches. But, the most exciting player to watch in tennis, Gael Monfils, has a favorable part of the draw in the fact if he keeps winning, he won't see a ranked player until the third round. Maybe the fourth round if Ivo Karlovic defeats Tipsarevic. But I truly believe that this is Rafa's championship to lose but he will face some stiff competition with Andy Roddick,Thomas Berdych, Andy Murray, Gael Monfils, and ivo Karlovic in his half of the draw.
WOMEN'S DRAW: On the womens' side, you have the Williams sisters who have won 9 out of the last 11 championships and it's hard to bet against them. Caroline Wozniacki has not done much to prove she is worthy of the #1 ranking much like former #1 player Dinara Safina. Former champ Maria Sharapova is healthy and playing quality tennis so she is a major contender. But I would most definitely put my money on Ms. Williams, Venus Williams. Because she is on at Wimbledon, there is no one, not even younger sister Serena, that can beat her.
MEN'S DRAW:Okay, the men's field is a lot different than the women's side of the draw in the fact that there a lot of potential winners. Last year's champ Roger Federer has always played well on the hollowed grass courts of Wimbledon and his backhead slice is almost undefendable here. United Kingdom native Andy Murray has all the tools to win his first major in his home country if he can cut down on the unforced errors in the big matches. But, the most exciting player to watch in tennis, Gael Monfils, has a favorable part of the draw in the fact if he keeps winning, he won't see a ranked player until the third round. Maybe the fourth round if Ivo Karlovic defeats Tipsarevic. But I truly believe that this is Rafa's championship to lose but he will face some stiff competition with Andy Roddick,Thomas Berdych, Andy Murray, Gael Monfils, and ivo Karlovic in his half of the draw.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
MIAMI POST SEASON AWARDS
Alright now. It's been almost a week since Miami lost Game 6 and the Dallas Mavericks earned their first NBA Championship. Much congrats to the Mavericks organization and their players. Also, to me for picking them to win even though they got it done one game earlier that I thought. But if I am a Miami Heat player and/or fan, I would not count this season as a complete disappointment considering how absymal your start was. So, I going to give out some special awards to the Heat. They all may not have NBA Championships yet, but I'm going to them some awards:
BEST COMEDIC PERFORMANCE: This award is going to the person who did best impression of what a NBA player should not do when he is acquired for a championship run> That player is Mike Bibby. He hardly played any defense or consistently made a jump shot to benefit his team. His effort was practically comedic for all its mishaps. The 3 stooges couldn't recreate the sophomoric effort that Bibby gave. Richard Pryor, George Carlin, and Bernie Mac couldn't write better jokes than that joke of a season you had.
BEST THEATRICS: This award belongs to the player who makes a foul out of the opposing teams' player sweat drops falling on him. The award goes to Dwyane Wade. I expected more mental toughness out of the former NBA Finals MVP, but I was highly disappointed. Just because Gabrielle Union is your girlfriend does not mean you should bring all the elements of her profession into yours. What happen to leadership qualities to help will your team to victory?? Did they go away when you got the divorce from Siobahn Funches? You're at the post game conference talking that the worlds is happy that the Heat are losing. The world could care less. the world got bills to pay, children to educated, and football games to watch. But, truth be told, I miss 2006 Dwyane Tyrone Wade in the sense of the fact he was fearless. What others said or didn't say had no bearing on how he played. Dwyane played with a controlled choas that constantly gave ESPN moments for the Top 10 plays of the night. But you don't consistently see that anymore. Or maybe Mark Cuban was right on the "phantom calls" you received in 2006 that gave you your repuation of having such machismo. Either way, leave the theatrics to actors those on the TV screens and the stage.
THE SLEEPER AWARD: The award goes to the players that weren't constantly recognize for their team contributions. But if it had not been for their play, the Heat would not have gotten to the NBA Finals. These players are Mario Chalmers and Udonis Haslem. In the beginnning of the season, Mario Chalmers was suppose to be the starting point guard but the acquistition of Mike Bibby changed those plans. But did he disapear? NO! He outplayed his starting counterpart in every round of the playoffs especially in the finals. So, Mario Chalmers, you get major dap for me. I know you're a free agent this summer and Pat Riley has made you the team's top concern. And you should be. Your point guard was stellar in playing sound defense and knocking down timely three point shots when your team desperately needed them.
Udonis Haslem, you were major in the playoffs especially when the team's starting center didn't score in some of the games in the playoffs. Without you, the Heat would have lost against Chicago in the Eastern Conference Finals. By grabbing those necessary rebounds, playing some serious defense and occasionally knocking down your 15-20 jumper, you became a constant around a lot of incinsistenties. Your unselfishess to take a pay cut of 40% is beyond admirable (I couldn't do it) and to be applauded. Major kudos to you as well.
THE MUZZLE AWARD: This award goes to the player who needs President Obama's speechwriter because he should not be allowed to speak from the heart. That player is LeBron James. It started off poor in the press conference/concert/pre-championship parade. The infamous statement of,"We can win not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, not 5, not 6, not 7..." Are you serious, man? You can't be. This must be a joke. I was waiting for Ashton Kutcher to hop out of the audience talking about we've been punk'd. because that is the only justifiable explanation for such crazy talk before training camp even started. And it ended on such a sour note with you talking to about how people who rooted against you personally have to go back to their ordinary lives and you're going to continue to do you. But, doing you has left you without a ring. Regardless on how tacky Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert was on his tweet after Dallas won, he made a valid point on the fact that there are no shortcuts to success. So, swallow all that humble pie you need to buy now and prepare yourself for the next season. I will give a strategy for success and it's called for 4 up's: Get UP, Show UP, Listen UP, and Shut UP. The media cannot miscontrue anything you say if you don't say anything.
MOST HERIOC PERFORMANCE: I almost called this award the Major Call of Duty Award. THere is no need to explain the purpose of this award. It goes to Mike Miller. Regardless if he didn't score consistently, there is no way you can criticize a player is going back and forth from the games to the hospital where his daughter is battling for her life. With Father's Day being tomorrow, you are major in my book. And there is nothing left to say.
THE RODNEY KING AWARD: Rodney King infamously said,"Can't we all just get long?" So, the recipient of this award goes to head coach Erik Spoelstra. He infortunatley was dealt with the task of being ego manager and head coach. In 2009, he was an unknown young coach who got his team to the playoffs and got them to overperformed. In 2010, he placed in a no win position. If they lose, he is not a good coach. If they win, he didn't play a part of it. With the media lurking around, whispering on how Pat Riley should be the head coach instead of Spoelstra. I applaud you for being able to not only keep your cool when the vultures came and doing a bang up job as head coach. Kudos to you.
BEST LEAD PLAYER IN THE NBA FINALS: The award goes to the player who showed up in EVERY game of the NBA Finals. That player is Chris Bosh. I know Carlos Boozer tried to throw some serious shade on you, but you got the last laugh outperforming him in 3 of the 5 games of the that series. Even when, the media was Big Gulping the LeBron tea and Wade Kool-Aid, you were the only one to hit a game winning shot. You were the the team's best free throw shooter. You weren't the one apart of the peanut gallery mocking Dirk Nowitzki on camera. Your play was never questioned in the fourth quarter in the finals. You showed up and get serious dap from me. You earned your playoff bonus and I can't say the same about everyone else on your team.
Well, that's all for now. Let's all pray tomorrow at church that there will be a NFL and NBA season. Amen...
BEST COMEDIC PERFORMANCE: This award is going to the person who did best impression of what a NBA player should not do when he is acquired for a championship run> That player is Mike Bibby. He hardly played any defense or consistently made a jump shot to benefit his team. His effort was practically comedic for all its mishaps. The 3 stooges couldn't recreate the sophomoric effort that Bibby gave. Richard Pryor, George Carlin, and Bernie Mac couldn't write better jokes than that joke of a season you had.
BEST THEATRICS: This award belongs to the player who makes a foul out of the opposing teams' player sweat drops falling on him. The award goes to Dwyane Wade. I expected more mental toughness out of the former NBA Finals MVP, but I was highly disappointed. Just because Gabrielle Union is your girlfriend does not mean you should bring all the elements of her profession into yours. What happen to leadership qualities to help will your team to victory?? Did they go away when you got the divorce from Siobahn Funches? You're at the post game conference talking that the worlds is happy that the Heat are losing. The world could care less. the world got bills to pay, children to educated, and football games to watch. But, truth be told, I miss 2006 Dwyane Tyrone Wade in the sense of the fact he was fearless. What others said or didn't say had no bearing on how he played. Dwyane played with a controlled choas that constantly gave ESPN moments for the Top 10 plays of the night. But you don't consistently see that anymore. Or maybe Mark Cuban was right on the "phantom calls" you received in 2006 that gave you your repuation of having such machismo. Either way, leave the theatrics to actors those on the TV screens and the stage.
THE SLEEPER AWARD: The award goes to the players that weren't constantly recognize for their team contributions. But if it had not been for their play, the Heat would not have gotten to the NBA Finals. These players are Mario Chalmers and Udonis Haslem. In the beginnning of the season, Mario Chalmers was suppose to be the starting point guard but the acquistition of Mike Bibby changed those plans. But did he disapear? NO! He outplayed his starting counterpart in every round of the playoffs especially in the finals. So, Mario Chalmers, you get major dap for me. I know you're a free agent this summer and Pat Riley has made you the team's top concern. And you should be. Your point guard was stellar in playing sound defense and knocking down timely three point shots when your team desperately needed them.
Udonis Haslem, you were major in the playoffs especially when the team's starting center didn't score in some of the games in the playoffs. Without you, the Heat would have lost against Chicago in the Eastern Conference Finals. By grabbing those necessary rebounds, playing some serious defense and occasionally knocking down your 15-20 jumper, you became a constant around a lot of incinsistenties. Your unselfishess to take a pay cut of 40% is beyond admirable (I couldn't do it) and to be applauded. Major kudos to you as well.
THE MUZZLE AWARD: This award goes to the player who needs President Obama's speechwriter because he should not be allowed to speak from the heart. That player is LeBron James. It started off poor in the press conference/concert/pre-championship parade. The infamous statement of,"We can win not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, not 5, not 6, not 7..." Are you serious, man? You can't be. This must be a joke. I was waiting for Ashton Kutcher to hop out of the audience talking about we've been punk'd. because that is the only justifiable explanation for such crazy talk before training camp even started. And it ended on such a sour note with you talking to about how people who rooted against you personally have to go back to their ordinary lives and you're going to continue to do you. But, doing you has left you without a ring. Regardless on how tacky Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert was on his tweet after Dallas won, he made a valid point on the fact that there are no shortcuts to success. So, swallow all that humble pie you need to buy now and prepare yourself for the next season. I will give a strategy for success and it's called for 4 up's: Get UP, Show UP, Listen UP, and Shut UP. The media cannot miscontrue anything you say if you don't say anything.
MOST HERIOC PERFORMANCE: I almost called this award the Major Call of Duty Award. THere is no need to explain the purpose of this award. It goes to Mike Miller. Regardless if he didn't score consistently, there is no way you can criticize a player is going back and forth from the games to the hospital where his daughter is battling for her life. With Father's Day being tomorrow, you are major in my book. And there is nothing left to say.
THE RODNEY KING AWARD: Rodney King infamously said,"Can't we all just get long?" So, the recipient of this award goes to head coach Erik Spoelstra. He infortunatley was dealt with the task of being ego manager and head coach. In 2009, he was an unknown young coach who got his team to the playoffs and got them to overperformed. In 2010, he placed in a no win position. If they lose, he is not a good coach. If they win, he didn't play a part of it. With the media lurking around, whispering on how Pat Riley should be the head coach instead of Spoelstra. I applaud you for being able to not only keep your cool when the vultures came and doing a bang up job as head coach. Kudos to you.
BEST LEAD PLAYER IN THE NBA FINALS: The award goes to the player who showed up in EVERY game of the NBA Finals. That player is Chris Bosh. I know Carlos Boozer tried to throw some serious shade on you, but you got the last laugh outperforming him in 3 of the 5 games of the that series. Even when, the media was Big Gulping the LeBron tea and Wade Kool-Aid, you were the only one to hit a game winning shot. You were the the team's best free throw shooter. You weren't the one apart of the peanut gallery mocking Dirk Nowitzki on camera. Your play was never questioned in the fourth quarter in the finals. You showed up and get serious dap from me. You earned your playoff bonus and I can't say the same about everyone else on your team.
Well, that's all for now. Let's all pray tomorrow at church that there will be a NFL and NBA season. Amen...
Friday, June 3, 2011
What Game 2 Has Taught Us
Alright, it has been over 12 hours since we saw the collapse of Miami and the comeback of Dallas in Game 2.And for those who thought there was going to be a sweep, how do you like them apples now? I told you there was NOT going to be a sweep. However, we collectively had learned some new things from Game 2 that we did learn from Game 1.
First of all, let's recap what we learned from Game 1 and see how it applied to Game 2:
1. MIAMI'S HALF-COURT OFFENSE IS KINDA TRAGIC
Miami's half-court offense is not kind of tragic. It is tragic. Sometimes, it's downright vile to watch. In the frst of Game 2, they were hitting the most outrageous jump shots with the shot clock expiring without consequence. But the last 7 minutes of the fourth quarter, all of those mind-blogging shots were bricks and wasted possessions. And not to beat a dead dog, Dallas stepped up their defensive intensity which helped their case. For Miami to win at least one of the next 3 games in Dallas, they must use their athleticism to their advantage and continue to push the ball to get easy buckets. Because as we saw in Game 2, half-court offense execution is NOT their forte.
2. DALLAS MUST TAKE CARE OF THE BALL
Dallas turn the ball over 18 times and Miami had 15 steals. From the sounds of this, Miami should have won, right? Wrong. In the last 7 minutes, Dallas committed one turnover and Miami were not able to get points of it. In 3 in a half quarters on this game, it seems as if Dallas was passing the ball to Miami for their own personal highlight reel. Miami had 9 dunks in Game 2 off of Dallas's carelessness with the ball. If Dallas wants to win this series, they cannot bank on late game heroics all the time. Just because you did before does not mean that it should become a habit.
3. THE BENCH ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS ON THE COURT
In Game 1, the Miami bench outscored the Dallas bench 27 to 17 and won. Dallas bench outscored Miami 21 to 11 and Dallas won. I do believe that this will be a trend for the rest of the series.
Okay, now that we have recapped how we learned in Game 1 applied to Game 2, let's discuss what Game 2 has taught us:
1. MIAMI STILL HAS NOT FULLY LEARNED OUT TO CLOSE A GAME OUT.
With 7 miuntes to go in the game, Miami had a 15 point lead and Dallas had to call timeout. After that timeout was called, Dallas only had one more timeout left and even Magic Johnson said that this game is over. But it wasn't, because Miami reverted back to poor habits that had them losing against winning teams when it was decided by less than 5 points. Sure, Miami has veteran players, but together, they are young in term of being a team. If anything, Miami should know that what you do to get a lead is how you keep a lead. And they lost because they were acting as if the game was over when there were 7 minutes left and Dallas has came back on teams in these 2010-11 playoffs. Besides, they ought to be ashamed of themselves for letting dirk hit the game winning shot when they had a foul to give. Now that lack of focus was quite tragic.
2. THE ONLY PERSON THAT CAN STOP DIRK IS DIRK
For about 3 and a half quarters, Shawn Marion was Dallas' offensive stopgap until Dirk decided he wanted to be Dirk. He scored the last 9 points for Dallas to win the game. In previous years, when the game was on the line, Dirk would disappear on both sides of the floor. But not last night, Dirk led the team not only in points but in rebounds as well. He showed up when it matter shooting left handed floaters(yes left handed) and knocking down one go ahead 3 point shot when until Jason Terry left Mario Chalmers wide open. Dirk showed up and there wasn't nobody who could stop him but himself.
3. MIAMI IS WADE'S TEAM
I said Miami is Wade's team. I repeat, MIAMI IS WADE'S TEAM. Out of their Big 3, who has a ring? Dwyane Wade. Who was on Miami before Chris Bosh and LeBron James? Dwyane Wade. Who was a NBA Finals MVP out of that Big 3? Dwyane Tyrone Wade. And Miami is his team. Chris Bosh and LeBron left their teams to join Dwyane on HIS team. He is the one who has gone to the NBA Finals and got a ring. Dwyane was the one in Game 2 making all the right decisions by leading his team in assists and points. He had 36 points by the middle of the fourth quarter and did not touch the ballthe rest the quarter except for the shot clock ending jump shots. Miami is not going to win the series if Dwyane Tyrone Wade is the second option, seriously.
Well, I gotta go for now...
First of all, let's recap what we learned from Game 1 and see how it applied to Game 2:
1. MIAMI'S HALF-COURT OFFENSE IS KINDA TRAGIC
Miami's half-court offense is not kind of tragic. It is tragic. Sometimes, it's downright vile to watch. In the frst of Game 2, they were hitting the most outrageous jump shots with the shot clock expiring without consequence. But the last 7 minutes of the fourth quarter, all of those mind-blogging shots were bricks and wasted possessions. And not to beat a dead dog, Dallas stepped up their defensive intensity which helped their case. For Miami to win at least one of the next 3 games in Dallas, they must use their athleticism to their advantage and continue to push the ball to get easy buckets. Because as we saw in Game 2, half-court offense execution is NOT their forte.
2. DALLAS MUST TAKE CARE OF THE BALL
Dallas turn the ball over 18 times and Miami had 15 steals. From the sounds of this, Miami should have won, right? Wrong. In the last 7 minutes, Dallas committed one turnover and Miami were not able to get points of it. In 3 in a half quarters on this game, it seems as if Dallas was passing the ball to Miami for their own personal highlight reel. Miami had 9 dunks in Game 2 off of Dallas's carelessness with the ball. If Dallas wants to win this series, they cannot bank on late game heroics all the time. Just because you did before does not mean that it should become a habit.
3. THE BENCH ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS ON THE COURT
In Game 1, the Miami bench outscored the Dallas bench 27 to 17 and won. Dallas bench outscored Miami 21 to 11 and Dallas won. I do believe that this will be a trend for the rest of the series.
Okay, now that we have recapped how we learned in Game 1 applied to Game 2, let's discuss what Game 2 has taught us:
1. MIAMI STILL HAS NOT FULLY LEARNED OUT TO CLOSE A GAME OUT.
With 7 miuntes to go in the game, Miami had a 15 point lead and Dallas had to call timeout. After that timeout was called, Dallas only had one more timeout left and even Magic Johnson said that this game is over. But it wasn't, because Miami reverted back to poor habits that had them losing against winning teams when it was decided by less than 5 points. Sure, Miami has veteran players, but together, they are young in term of being a team. If anything, Miami should know that what you do to get a lead is how you keep a lead. And they lost because they were acting as if the game was over when there were 7 minutes left and Dallas has came back on teams in these 2010-11 playoffs. Besides, they ought to be ashamed of themselves for letting dirk hit the game winning shot when they had a foul to give. Now that lack of focus was quite tragic.
2. THE ONLY PERSON THAT CAN STOP DIRK IS DIRK
For about 3 and a half quarters, Shawn Marion was Dallas' offensive stopgap until Dirk decided he wanted to be Dirk. He scored the last 9 points for Dallas to win the game. In previous years, when the game was on the line, Dirk would disappear on both sides of the floor. But not last night, Dirk led the team not only in points but in rebounds as well. He showed up when it matter shooting left handed floaters(yes left handed) and knocking down one go ahead 3 point shot when until Jason Terry left Mario Chalmers wide open. Dirk showed up and there wasn't nobody who could stop him but himself.
3. MIAMI IS WADE'S TEAM
I said Miami is Wade's team. I repeat, MIAMI IS WADE'S TEAM. Out of their Big 3, who has a ring? Dwyane Wade. Who was on Miami before Chris Bosh and LeBron James? Dwyane Wade. Who was a NBA Finals MVP out of that Big 3? Dwyane Tyrone Wade. And Miami is his team. Chris Bosh and LeBron left their teams to join Dwyane on HIS team. He is the one who has gone to the NBA Finals and got a ring. Dwyane was the one in Game 2 making all the right decisions by leading his team in assists and points. He had 36 points by the middle of the fourth quarter and did not touch the ballthe rest the quarter except for the shot clock ending jump shots. Miami is not going to win the series if Dwyane Tyrone Wade is the second option, seriously.
Well, I gotta go for now...
Thursday, June 2, 2011
What We Have Learned From Game 1
All righty, Game 2 of the NBA Finals starts in less than 9 hours(9 EDT) and I'm pretty sure that most of the population who watched that don't believe that there will be a sweep. If you do, you are kind of delusional. Well, I'm going to tell you the 3 things what I've learned:
1. MIAMI HALF-COURT OFEENSE IS SLIGHLY TRAGIC.
I am not trying to mean here, but watching Miami's half-court offense was seriously painful. There is no ease to it, very forceful in delivery in all the wrong ways. It was like having to watch an oral surgeon pulls someone's teeth out without novocaine. They would get the ball across half court and then make one or two passes, but there would be any real execution until the last 10 seconds of the shot almost every single possession. Then, if you are a Miami fan, you're hoping that the jump shot whoever is shooting goes in. It's almost like a little kind watching a scary at the end covering their eyes and then peeking out of one hoping that the outcome is favorable. So, if you're Miami, I would use your athleticism to your adavantage and push the ball on all occasions, because you really lucked up that the wide open shots Dallas took did not fall in their favor.
2. DALLAS MUST TAKE CARE OF THE BALL
Dallas had 12 turnovers and Miami only had 10. 12 turnovers does not sound bad, right? Wrong. Miami is the type of team that capitilizes on turnovers with fast break points. Because if you are Dallas, the best defense is a superb offense that does not turn the ball over since Miami does not consistently push the ball down the floor regardless if it is a make or miss on the other end.
3. THE BENCH ARE REALLY THE MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS.
The bench is who's going to decide the winner of the series. Miami's bench outscored Dallas' 27-17 which proved to be differnce in the game. It wasn't LeBron going 4-5 from behind the 3 point line, but the 18 points that Mario Chalmers and Mike Miller combined for since Joell Anthony and Mike went scoreless. Miami desperately needs consistent contributions from their bench Mike Bibby has not found his shot after leaving Sacramento and Atlanta and Joell Anthony is much more known for his defensive presence. And Peja Stojakic going scoreless truly does help the Miami defense on one less scorer to account for.
Well, that's all I got so far. Now, if NFL and the players come to an agreement in the next couple weeks, days would be nice, all will be right with the world.
1. MIAMI HALF-COURT OFEENSE IS SLIGHLY TRAGIC.
I am not trying to mean here, but watching Miami's half-court offense was seriously painful. There is no ease to it, very forceful in delivery in all the wrong ways. It was like having to watch an oral surgeon pulls someone's teeth out without novocaine. They would get the ball across half court and then make one or two passes, but there would be any real execution until the last 10 seconds of the shot almost every single possession. Then, if you are a Miami fan, you're hoping that the jump shot whoever is shooting goes in. It's almost like a little kind watching a scary at the end covering their eyes and then peeking out of one hoping that the outcome is favorable. So, if you're Miami, I would use your athleticism to your adavantage and push the ball on all occasions, because you really lucked up that the wide open shots Dallas took did not fall in their favor.
2. DALLAS MUST TAKE CARE OF THE BALL
Dallas had 12 turnovers and Miami only had 10. 12 turnovers does not sound bad, right? Wrong. Miami is the type of team that capitilizes on turnovers with fast break points. Because if you are Dallas, the best defense is a superb offense that does not turn the ball over since Miami does not consistently push the ball down the floor regardless if it is a make or miss on the other end.
3. THE BENCH ARE REALLY THE MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS.
The bench is who's going to decide the winner of the series. Miami's bench outscored Dallas' 27-17 which proved to be differnce in the game. It wasn't LeBron going 4-5 from behind the 3 point line, but the 18 points that Mario Chalmers and Mike Miller combined for since Joell Anthony and Mike went scoreless. Miami desperately needs consistent contributions from their bench Mike Bibby has not found his shot after leaving Sacramento and Atlanta and Joell Anthony is much more known for his defensive presence. And Peja Stojakic going scoreless truly does help the Miami defense on one less scorer to account for.
Well, that's all I got so far. Now, if NFL and the players come to an agreement in the next couple weeks, days would be nice, all will be right with the world.
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