History will repeat itself if we don't learn from it.
Apparently Chris hasn't read enough history. You can't have Texas Tech outside your top 10, in a game people across the country were picking as an upset, and who you took to cover in our pick em' they demolished Kansas State. Is Kansas State a top 10 team? Of course not, but they won by 30, we aren't talking like 10 or 14 but 30, this game was never close after the 1st quarter. Texas Tech is the best team in the Big XII South and I can't wait til November when they prove it when they beat the Oklahoma Sooners.
Other things:
LSU overrated @ #5
USC at #6, beating an Oregon team with its new QB is not impressive
How can you have Florida above UGA, Florida lost to an unranked team at home, and struggled with Arkansas for 3 quarters?
Cal at #19, they lost to Maryland who lost 31-0 to UVA... point proven
My Top 25- Explanations will come later in the week
1) Oklahoma
2) Missouri
3) Alabama- played to their real ability vs Kentucky
4) Texas Tech
5) BYU
6) UGA
7) Penn State
8) USC
9) Florida
10) Texas
11) Vanderbilt
12) LSU
13) Auburn
14) Boise State
15) Wake Forest- The Navy game was just a bad bad game...i'll give them a mulligan
16) Ohio State
17) North Carolina
18) South Florida
19) Michigan State
20) Utah
21) Virginia Tech
22) Tulsa- vastly underrated team
23) Northwestern
24) Cal
25) Ball State
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Top 25 10/5
After a few weeks off, here is my updated top 25:
1. Alabama (6-0)- That first half against UGA was complete domination...they let up a little and UGA got back into the game, but at this point Alabama has to be considered the top team. Survived a letdown game with Kentucky this week.
2. Oklahoma (5-0)- Another blowout win, this time over Baylor, heading into the Red River Rivalry game against Texas in Dallas. Though unlike in other years, this game may not decide the South title, with four undefeated teams in the division.
3. Missouri (5-0)- Got their first win in Lincoln since 1978 in blowout fashion, and Chase Daniel continues to put up Heisman numbers. Next two games should test them more, with undefeated Oklahoma State at home and then a huge game at Texas the following week.
4. Texas (5-0)- The third consecutive Big 12 team here has 5 blowouts, but only one against a somewhat decent team (this week at Colorado). We still don't know too much about them, but with so many teams losing early in the season and/or looking less than impressive against inferior opponents, Texas benefits and moves up. We will see about this team against OU next week.
5. LSU (4-0)- After a bye this week, the Tigers embark on a ridiculous schedule for the next 5 games, with trips to Florida and South Carolina and home games against Georgia and Alabama sandwiched around the annual game with Tulane. Going 3-2 in that stretch would not even be too bad, but if the Tigers have national title aspirations, 4-1 would be better for them.
6. USC (3-1)- The Trojans blowout of Oregon after the shocking loss at Oregon State proves that the loss was more of a fluke than anything. The Trojans should win every game remaining on their scheudle, and if they do they will have a decent shot at a title game appearance
7. Penn State (6-0)- Clearly the best team in the Big Ten right now, whatever that might be worth. The Lions still have to go to Madison and Columbus but it seems very plausible that they could run the table, which should guarantee them a spot in the BCS title game.
8. BYU (5-0)- Though the Cougars might fall into relative obscurity in the next few weeks because of the lower profile of the Mountain West, nobody should forget about them or Heisman candidate Max Hall. They do, however, have the toughest MWC schedule as they have to travel to both TCU and archrival Utah. An undefeated BYU should garner as much consideration as anyone to play in the title game.
9. Florida (4-1)- A blocked extra point kept them from being undefeated and perhaps ranked #1 this week. Though losing to Ole Miss at home certainly wasn't a good thing, one loss in the SEC by no means elminates them from anything...and it helped that UGA also lost to an SEC West opponent on the same week...
10. Georgia (4-1)- And they looked bad doing it. Though Alabama is much better than Ole Miss, Georgia still was losing 31-0 at halftime and didnt look like a national title contender for most of the game. Nevertheless, both of these teams are now looking up in the standings at...
11. Vanderbilt (5-0)- The surprising Commodores. Vandy, 5-0 for the first time since they played just 5 games in 1943 due to World War II, proved that they werent a product of their somewhat soft schedule by coming back from down 13-0 to beat Auburn 14-13. They are now the only undefeated team in the SEC East, and 3-0 in the SEC for the first time since 1950.
12. Texas Tech (6-0)- They rolled up a lot of points on another outmatched team, but this time it was a Big 12 opponent on the road. Being probably the third best team in probably the nation's best division shouldnt let them drop from this spot if they go 2-2 during their four game stretch later in the season of at Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma State, at Oklahoma.
13. Auburn (4-2)- They let a 13-0 lead slip away and watched Vandy pull of their biggest win in school history, and they still don't really know how to run the spread, but their 2 losses are to teams in the SEC with a combined record of 9-0, and theyve been by a combined 6 points. Auburn's chance to win the SEC West probably disappeared on Saturday however.
14. Utah (6-0)- That win against Oregon State looks a lot better than it would have if it had occured two weeks earlier, and Utah is now in position to possibly run the table, with at TCU their biggest test until the Holy War, at home against BYU on the last day of the regular season. Both teams could be 11-0 at that point.
15. Ohio State (5-1)- Terrelle Pryor has now taken the starting job and is maturing week by week, which is great news for OSU. His keeper with a minute left last night in Madison may have saved the Buckeyes season, as they still have an outside title shot if something similar to last season happens. They'll have to get around that 35-3 loss to USC though.
16. Boise State (4-0)- Don't forget about the Broncos as BCS busters after their huge win over Oregon. With Fresno losing to Hawaii it looks like Boise has a fairly clean road to a 12-0 record and a possible BCS berth.
17. Virginia Tech (5-1)- They still dont really have an offense, although Tyrod Taylor makes them more dangerous, but they continue to win, and have already beaten their two main competitors for the ACC Coastal crown (North Carolina and Georgia Tech) meaning they would have to lose twice to not appear in the title game if both of those teams ran the table in conference.
18. North Carolina (4-1)- Butch Davis is ahead of schedule and couldve had this team ranked close to the top 10 had they managed to pull out the Virginia Tech game in Chapel Hill. The Heels are on the verge of becoming an ACC power.
19. California (4-1)- It's hard to believe they lost to Maryland, who was just pounded by UVA, but they also beat Arizona State and Michigan State. The Bears and Arizona are the only teams left undefeated in the Pac 10.
20. Michigan State (5-1)-Since their opening loss at Cal, the Spartans have looked pretty good, starting 2-0 in the Big Ten as well as handing Notre Dame their only loss. Will Javon Ringer be able to keep up his current load all season, or will Brian Hoyer be counted on to win a game eventually?
21. Wake Forest (3-1)- Hopefully that bye week was enough for them to get over their home loss to Navy, because the biggest game of the season, a home game vs Clemson, is now approaching. The winner of this game is still the odds on favorite to win the ACC Atlantic, especially if its Wake.
22. South Florida (5-1)- What to make of the Big East now? It is still fairly simple in that USF has to beat WVU to win the conference anyway, but now Pitt is also undefeated in the league and has taken down the league favorite. I think the smart money is still on the Bulls to win the league.
23. Oklahoma State (5-0)- The end of this ranking begins my tribute to the remaining undefeateds that arent getting any respect. Oklahoma State has many chances to prove that its legit in the perilous Big 12 South.
24. Northwestern (5-0)- The Wildcats are just one win away from being bowl eligible...but they were also eligible last year and were not selected. This year, with the down Big Ten, it seems almost certain that Northwestern will get to a bowl game.
25. Ball State (6-0)- Ball State could very well go 13-0, including the MAC title game, but I doubt they have any chance of busting the BCS, especially considering how many non BCS teams are ranked above them here.
1. Alabama (6-0)- That first half against UGA was complete domination...they let up a little and UGA got back into the game, but at this point Alabama has to be considered the top team. Survived a letdown game with Kentucky this week.
2. Oklahoma (5-0)- Another blowout win, this time over Baylor, heading into the Red River Rivalry game against Texas in Dallas. Though unlike in other years, this game may not decide the South title, with four undefeated teams in the division.
3. Missouri (5-0)- Got their first win in Lincoln since 1978 in blowout fashion, and Chase Daniel continues to put up Heisman numbers. Next two games should test them more, with undefeated Oklahoma State at home and then a huge game at Texas the following week.
4. Texas (5-0)- The third consecutive Big 12 team here has 5 blowouts, but only one against a somewhat decent team (this week at Colorado). We still don't know too much about them, but with so many teams losing early in the season and/or looking less than impressive against inferior opponents, Texas benefits and moves up. We will see about this team against OU next week.
5. LSU (4-0)- After a bye this week, the Tigers embark on a ridiculous schedule for the next 5 games, with trips to Florida and South Carolina and home games against Georgia and Alabama sandwiched around the annual game with Tulane. Going 3-2 in that stretch would not even be too bad, but if the Tigers have national title aspirations, 4-1 would be better for them.
6. USC (3-1)- The Trojans blowout of Oregon after the shocking loss at Oregon State proves that the loss was more of a fluke than anything. The Trojans should win every game remaining on their scheudle, and if they do they will have a decent shot at a title game appearance
7. Penn State (6-0)- Clearly the best team in the Big Ten right now, whatever that might be worth. The Lions still have to go to Madison and Columbus but it seems very plausible that they could run the table, which should guarantee them a spot in the BCS title game.
8. BYU (5-0)- Though the Cougars might fall into relative obscurity in the next few weeks because of the lower profile of the Mountain West, nobody should forget about them or Heisman candidate Max Hall. They do, however, have the toughest MWC schedule as they have to travel to both TCU and archrival Utah. An undefeated BYU should garner as much consideration as anyone to play in the title game.
9. Florida (4-1)- A blocked extra point kept them from being undefeated and perhaps ranked #1 this week. Though losing to Ole Miss at home certainly wasn't a good thing, one loss in the SEC by no means elminates them from anything...and it helped that UGA also lost to an SEC West opponent on the same week...
10. Georgia (4-1)- And they looked bad doing it. Though Alabama is much better than Ole Miss, Georgia still was losing 31-0 at halftime and didnt look like a national title contender for most of the game. Nevertheless, both of these teams are now looking up in the standings at...
11. Vanderbilt (5-0)- The surprising Commodores. Vandy, 5-0 for the first time since they played just 5 games in 1943 due to World War II, proved that they werent a product of their somewhat soft schedule by coming back from down 13-0 to beat Auburn 14-13. They are now the only undefeated team in the SEC East, and 3-0 in the SEC for the first time since 1950.
12. Texas Tech (6-0)- They rolled up a lot of points on another outmatched team, but this time it was a Big 12 opponent on the road. Being probably the third best team in probably the nation's best division shouldnt let them drop from this spot if they go 2-2 during their four game stretch later in the season of at Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma State, at Oklahoma.
13. Auburn (4-2)- They let a 13-0 lead slip away and watched Vandy pull of their biggest win in school history, and they still don't really know how to run the spread, but their 2 losses are to teams in the SEC with a combined record of 9-0, and theyve been by a combined 6 points. Auburn's chance to win the SEC West probably disappeared on Saturday however.
14. Utah (6-0)- That win against Oregon State looks a lot better than it would have if it had occured two weeks earlier, and Utah is now in position to possibly run the table, with at TCU their biggest test until the Holy War, at home against BYU on the last day of the regular season. Both teams could be 11-0 at that point.
15. Ohio State (5-1)- Terrelle Pryor has now taken the starting job and is maturing week by week, which is great news for OSU. His keeper with a minute left last night in Madison may have saved the Buckeyes season, as they still have an outside title shot if something similar to last season happens. They'll have to get around that 35-3 loss to USC though.
16. Boise State (4-0)- Don't forget about the Broncos as BCS busters after their huge win over Oregon. With Fresno losing to Hawaii it looks like Boise has a fairly clean road to a 12-0 record and a possible BCS berth.
17. Virginia Tech (5-1)- They still dont really have an offense, although Tyrod Taylor makes them more dangerous, but they continue to win, and have already beaten their two main competitors for the ACC Coastal crown (North Carolina and Georgia Tech) meaning they would have to lose twice to not appear in the title game if both of those teams ran the table in conference.
18. North Carolina (4-1)- Butch Davis is ahead of schedule and couldve had this team ranked close to the top 10 had they managed to pull out the Virginia Tech game in Chapel Hill. The Heels are on the verge of becoming an ACC power.
19. California (4-1)- It's hard to believe they lost to Maryland, who was just pounded by UVA, but they also beat Arizona State and Michigan State. The Bears and Arizona are the only teams left undefeated in the Pac 10.
20. Michigan State (5-1)-Since their opening loss at Cal, the Spartans have looked pretty good, starting 2-0 in the Big Ten as well as handing Notre Dame their only loss. Will Javon Ringer be able to keep up his current load all season, or will Brian Hoyer be counted on to win a game eventually?
21. Wake Forest (3-1)- Hopefully that bye week was enough for them to get over their home loss to Navy, because the biggest game of the season, a home game vs Clemson, is now approaching. The winner of this game is still the odds on favorite to win the ACC Atlantic, especially if its Wake.
22. South Florida (5-1)- What to make of the Big East now? It is still fairly simple in that USF has to beat WVU to win the conference anyway, but now Pitt is also undefeated in the league and has taken down the league favorite. I think the smart money is still on the Bulls to win the league.
23. Oklahoma State (5-0)- The end of this ranking begins my tribute to the remaining undefeateds that arent getting any respect. Oklahoma State has many chances to prove that its legit in the perilous Big 12 South.
24. Northwestern (5-0)- The Wildcats are just one win away from being bowl eligible...but they were also eligible last year and were not selected. This year, with the down Big Ten, it seems almost certain that Northwestern will get to a bowl game.
25. Ball State (6-0)- Ball State could very well go 13-0, including the MAC title game, but I doubt they have any chance of busting the BCS, especially considering how many non BCS teams are ranked above them here.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Week 5 Pick Recap
Good: Knowing Michigan would take out Wisconsin at home
Bad: Thinking Colorado was actually good... i fell into the trap
Horrible: Was that the UGA JV team in the 1st half...like what was that, my HS team woulda been UGA in the 1st half
Overall: 4-3
Top 25 to come later today
-CJ
Bad: Thinking Colorado was actually good... i fell into the trap
Horrible: Was that the UGA JV team in the 1st half...like what was that, my HS team woulda been UGA in the 1st half
Overall: 4-3
Top 25 to come later today
-CJ
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Week 5 Picks
I told you all so about USC... okay now thats over lets make some picks for this weeks big games:
(AP Ranks used here...not mine)
#8 Alabama @ #3 UGA- I think Alabama might be the most overrated top 10 team since USF last year, they beat a bad Clemson team to get to this ranking. I look for UGA to dominate and show why they were picked Preseason #1
Score: UGA 34 Alabama 13
North Carolina at Miami (FL)- I was on the UNC bandwagon and then they play like that vs a horrific VT team... Miami really hasn't done anything either so this isn't an easy decision... but I'll take the superior talent at Miami over Butch Davis's return
Score: Miami 35 UNC 27
No. 9 Wisconsin at Michigan - Everyone hates Michigan, and they've looked terrible but this is the perfect trap game scenario. An overconfident Wisconsin team walks into the Big House on their B game and gets upset by a team that needs the big win
Score: Michigan 27 Wisconsin 21
Purdue at Notre Dame- Another tough game to predict, this game had a pickem spread most of the week. Something tells me Notre Dame will show up to play today and show Purdue why some people (Not me... have ND as a 10-2 team)
Score: Notre Dame 42 Purdue 31
Colorado at Florida State- If someone can explain to me why Colorado is a 5 point dog please email me cause I can't figure it out at all, Colorado has the more offensive talent and their defense is playing the FSU offense so they will have a great week by default.
Score: Colorado 28 FSU 10
Mississippi State at No. 5 LSU - This game like the Michigan-Wisconsin game smells like a trap game. Mississippi State has a very good defense but the question is will their offense move the ball at all vs LSU? Look for MSU to bring out the trick plays to keep this one close but LSU squeaks by in the end
Score: LSU 14 MSU 13
No. 22 Illinois at No. 12 Penn State- UI is not a good team and Penn State will show that tonight.
Score: Penn State 45 UI 20
-CJ
(AP Ranks used here...not mine)
#8 Alabama @ #3 UGA- I think Alabama might be the most overrated top 10 team since USF last year, they beat a bad Clemson team to get to this ranking. I look for UGA to dominate and show why they were picked Preseason #1
Score: UGA 34 Alabama 13
North Carolina at Miami (FL)- I was on the UNC bandwagon and then they play like that vs a horrific VT team... Miami really hasn't done anything either so this isn't an easy decision... but I'll take the superior talent at Miami over Butch Davis's return
Score: Miami 35 UNC 27
No. 9 Wisconsin at Michigan - Everyone hates Michigan, and they've looked terrible but this is the perfect trap game scenario. An overconfident Wisconsin team walks into the Big House on their B game and gets upset by a team that needs the big win
Score: Michigan 27 Wisconsin 21
Purdue at Notre Dame- Another tough game to predict, this game had a pickem spread most of the week. Something tells me Notre Dame will show up to play today and show Purdue why some people (Not me... have ND as a 10-2 team)
Score: Notre Dame 42 Purdue 31
Colorado at Florida State- If someone can explain to me why Colorado is a 5 point dog please email me cause I can't figure it out at all, Colorado has the more offensive talent and their defense is playing the FSU offense so they will have a great week by default.
Score: Colorado 28 FSU 10
Mississippi State at No. 5 LSU - This game like the Michigan-Wisconsin game smells like a trap game. Mississippi State has a very good defense but the question is will their offense move the ball at all vs LSU? Look for MSU to bring out the trick plays to keep this one close but LSU squeaks by in the end
Score: LSU 14 MSU 13
No. 22 Illinois at No. 12 Penn State- UI is not a good team and Penn State will show that tonight.
Score: Penn State 45 UI 20
-CJ
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Chris, Your Top 25 is way off -CJ
I don't think we've ever disagreed on a top 25 this much. I'm going to post about a few of the terrible misseedings and at the bottom put the Top 25 as I see it.
Texas @ #6- I'm sorry but the fact your name is Texas and you blow out schools I've never heard of doesn't get you a spot this high in the polls. Especially because they are the 3rd best time in their division and might be only the 5th best team in their conference.
Florida @ #2- Sorry but playing a young Hawaii team even through the 1st half at home shouldn't get you a #2 ranking. This team is vastly overrated by most pundits in the country. They will finish 2nd alright...in the SEC East. This team doesn't have the running game offensively or defensively to handle the all-around speed of UGA. I've said it from day 1, UGA will win the NCAA title.
LSU @ #7- Their Starting QB played JV at Harvard last year... this is all i should write but this is so horrific I can't stop myself. They've played no one and this team is too young and has a loose cannon in Les Miles, in the past his teams' talent made up for his bonehead coaching but without it, LSU will freefall.
Alabama @ #8: Repeat after me... Clemson is not good... lets try that again...Clemson is not good... okay good now that we understand this fact of life (they never play up to their potential...ever) Alabama might be the 2nd best team in the division and surely deserving of a spot in the top 25 their is no way they should be ranked higher than Auburn or even have a top 13 spot.
Texas Tech @ #16: Yes Chris this team isn't putting up the numbers they normally have but its orchestrated. Whats the point of winning 70-20 when you can win 45-20 and cut down the plays your top players play and rest them up for conference play. Texas Tech is getting smarter. Michael Crabtree is the best player in America. Its laughable that Texas was ranked 10 spots above the best team in their division... yes this team is better than Oklahoma and will show it.
Utah @ #17: How can Utah get in for dominating Michigan for 3 quarters then almost choking but an Irish squad that dominated them for 60 minutes doesn't? Utah is the most overhyped non-BCS team... when BYU plays Utah look for a similar score to BYU-UCLA.
I'm also not a fan of TCU or Florida State being ranked, there are more deserving teams than these 2... I'm also not a fan of UNC but after their drubbing of overrated Rutgers I'll let them have a spot for a week.
CJ's Top 25
1) UGA- You start at the top you stay there til you lose and the Bulldogs haven't lost yet and won't have a chance til they go to Auburn
2) USC- Very talented and deep, but they beat a vastly overrated Ohio State team with or without Beanie Wells. They better not get too full of themselves cause they will have multiple tough tests in the Pac-10 and from the Irish
3) Missouri- Got the talent, but do they have the experience?
4) Oklahoma- Texas Tech is the better team but they have to show it first before I put them over the Sooners
5) Florida- I'd put them lower but i'll let them lose a couple games first
6) Texas Tech- One of the more unappreciated teams in the country...when they are in a BCS game in January maybe they'll get their due respect
7) Wisconsin- Are they and Fresno good or are they both overrated... I say good for now
8) Auburn- "You play to win the game"- Herman Edwards, sure the 3-2 win over Miss St. wasn't pretty but they lost to this team last year at home, the fact they won this type of game is crucial for their SEC hopes. Auburn's spread will work, it will just take another 2-3 weeks to gel but regardless they have to hold onto the ball.
9) BYU- I knew they were a lock to cover 8 vs UCLA... and i expected a 3-4 TD win...but 59-0...geez
10) ECU- Have played the better schedule than BYU but 59-0 shock gives them the slight advantage
11) USF- Best team in the Big East by far, but can they play with the bullseye on their backs?
12) Ohio State- They still have talent and are the 2nd best in a weak Big X, can they rebound after the beating?
13) Penn State- If these guys can stay on the field they could surprise people. Speed on offense and defense makes them very scary
14) LSU- Beat someone good then I'll move you up until then you stay in the middle of the pack where you belong
15) Kansas- Yes they lost at USF but they did get a big lead, it was a great learning experience and they will be back stronger than before
16) Texas- Might be 3rd best team in their division but they will be better than the ACC Champ
17) Alabama- Beat one of the big boys (no an overrated Clemson doesn't count) and you'll fly up...but since that won't happen your more likely to fall out then move up
18) Oregon- 3rd string QB leads you on a TD drive in 20T... impressive but can they stay healthy enough to compete with USC?
19) West Virginia- Didn't show up to play ECU and the question remains will they show up to play the Big East Schedule with no NCAA title hopes?
20) Wake Forest- Too bad they are in such a bad conference no one will ever give them respect, this team is an example of why playing a marquee non-conf game is important
21) Nebraska- Cupcake wins (check), beat a big time BCS Team (Virginia Tech) will be done Saturday night... i'm just on the bandwagon a week before
22) Illionis- I don't know why they are ranked but I also have no good reason to not rank them so they go here
23) Fresno State- Not sure if both they and Wisconsin are great or are both bad...for now I'll say they are both good but I need to see things out of them for them to keep a Top 25 spot
24) Boise State- Just cause they lost to a supertalented ECU team last December makes them bad? This team somehow inexcusably is flying under the radar again, when we are talking BCS busters in December their name will be on the list
25) Arizona State- Just cause they got eaten up by the trap game curse doesn't mean they don't have talent, these guys will play UGA and USC close speaking of which... why does no one give these guys credit for scheduling UGA even with a Pac-10 schedule thats brutal...props and you might stay if u lose to UGA
Just Missed: ND (if they beat the Spartans in decent fashion they will get a spot), Vandy, Florida State, Utah
-CJ
Comments posted here or emailed to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Texas @ #6- I'm sorry but the fact your name is Texas and you blow out schools I've never heard of doesn't get you a spot this high in the polls. Especially because they are the 3rd best time in their division and might be only the 5th best team in their conference.
Florida @ #2- Sorry but playing a young Hawaii team even through the 1st half at home shouldn't get you a #2 ranking. This team is vastly overrated by most pundits in the country. They will finish 2nd alright...in the SEC East. This team doesn't have the running game offensively or defensively to handle the all-around speed of UGA. I've said it from day 1, UGA will win the NCAA title.
LSU @ #7- Their Starting QB played JV at Harvard last year... this is all i should write but this is so horrific I can't stop myself. They've played no one and this team is too young and has a loose cannon in Les Miles, in the past his teams' talent made up for his bonehead coaching but without it, LSU will freefall.
Alabama @ #8: Repeat after me... Clemson is not good... lets try that again...Clemson is not good... okay good now that we understand this fact of life (they never play up to their potential...ever) Alabama might be the 2nd best team in the division and surely deserving of a spot in the top 25 their is no way they should be ranked higher than Auburn or even have a top 13 spot.
Texas Tech @ #16: Yes Chris this team isn't putting up the numbers they normally have but its orchestrated. Whats the point of winning 70-20 when you can win 45-20 and cut down the plays your top players play and rest them up for conference play. Texas Tech is getting smarter. Michael Crabtree is the best player in America. Its laughable that Texas was ranked 10 spots above the best team in their division... yes this team is better than Oklahoma and will show it.
Utah @ #17: How can Utah get in for dominating Michigan for 3 quarters then almost choking but an Irish squad that dominated them for 60 minutes doesn't? Utah is the most overhyped non-BCS team... when BYU plays Utah look for a similar score to BYU-UCLA.
I'm also not a fan of TCU or Florida State being ranked, there are more deserving teams than these 2... I'm also not a fan of UNC but after their drubbing of overrated Rutgers I'll let them have a spot for a week.
CJ's Top 25
1) UGA- You start at the top you stay there til you lose and the Bulldogs haven't lost yet and won't have a chance til they go to Auburn
2) USC- Very talented and deep, but they beat a vastly overrated Ohio State team with or without Beanie Wells. They better not get too full of themselves cause they will have multiple tough tests in the Pac-10 and from the Irish
3) Missouri- Got the talent, but do they have the experience?
4) Oklahoma- Texas Tech is the better team but they have to show it first before I put them over the Sooners
5) Florida- I'd put them lower but i'll let them lose a couple games first
6) Texas Tech- One of the more unappreciated teams in the country...when they are in a BCS game in January maybe they'll get their due respect
7) Wisconsin- Are they and Fresno good or are they both overrated... I say good for now
8) Auburn- "You play to win the game"- Herman Edwards, sure the 3-2 win over Miss St. wasn't pretty but they lost to this team last year at home, the fact they won this type of game is crucial for their SEC hopes. Auburn's spread will work, it will just take another 2-3 weeks to gel but regardless they have to hold onto the ball.
9) BYU- I knew they were a lock to cover 8 vs UCLA... and i expected a 3-4 TD win...but 59-0...geez
10) ECU- Have played the better schedule than BYU but 59-0 shock gives them the slight advantage
11) USF- Best team in the Big East by far, but can they play with the bullseye on their backs?
12) Ohio State- They still have talent and are the 2nd best in a weak Big X, can they rebound after the beating?
13) Penn State- If these guys can stay on the field they could surprise people. Speed on offense and defense makes them very scary
14) LSU- Beat someone good then I'll move you up until then you stay in the middle of the pack where you belong
15) Kansas- Yes they lost at USF but they did get a big lead, it was a great learning experience and they will be back stronger than before
16) Texas- Might be 3rd best team in their division but they will be better than the ACC Champ
17) Alabama- Beat one of the big boys (no an overrated Clemson doesn't count) and you'll fly up...but since that won't happen your more likely to fall out then move up
18) Oregon- 3rd string QB leads you on a TD drive in 20T... impressive but can they stay healthy enough to compete with USC?
19) West Virginia- Didn't show up to play ECU and the question remains will they show up to play the Big East Schedule with no NCAA title hopes?
20) Wake Forest- Too bad they are in such a bad conference no one will ever give them respect, this team is an example of why playing a marquee non-conf game is important
21) Nebraska- Cupcake wins (check), beat a big time BCS Team (Virginia Tech) will be done Saturday night... i'm just on the bandwagon a week before
22) Illionis- I don't know why they are ranked but I also have no good reason to not rank them so they go here
23) Fresno State- Not sure if both they and Wisconsin are great or are both bad...for now I'll say they are both good but I need to see things out of them for them to keep a Top 25 spot
24) Boise State- Just cause they lost to a supertalented ECU team last December makes them bad? This team somehow inexcusably is flying under the radar again, when we are talking BCS busters in December their name will be on the list
25) Arizona State- Just cause they got eaten up by the trap game curse doesn't mean they don't have talent, these guys will play UGA and USC close speaking of which... why does no one give these guys credit for scheduling UGA even with a Pac-10 schedule thats brutal...props and you might stay if u lose to UGA
Just Missed: ND (if they beat the Spartans in decent fashion they will get a spot), Vandy, Florida State, Utah
-CJ
Comments posted here or emailed to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
NCAA Football top 25 (Games Ended 9/13)
Now that we have made it through the first three weeks of the season, I will publish my first top 25 of the season, free from the bias of preseason polls:
1. USC (2-0)- Trojans have outscored their first two opponents, both of BCS conferences, 87-10. The scariest part is that they made Ohio State look almost as bad as UVA.
2. Florida (2-0)- My preseason national championship pick is only not ranked #1 because of USC's sheer dominance. Florida has looked impressive in holding their first two opponents to a combined 13 points. The secondary looks much improved from last season despite playing two very weak offensive teams.
3. Georgia (3-0)- Handled South Carolina, which they hadn't been able to do for the past three seasons. Offense doesn't appear to be explosive against SEC level defenses, but it may be enough to get them to a BCS bowl with their stellar defense.
4. Oklahoma (3-0)- Sam Bradford and the offense have put up ridiculous numbers against inferior competition, and contributed to sealing Ty Willingham's fate at Washington. The Big XII title game could be a real shootout because...
5. Missouri (3-0)- No player in the nation has looked better than Chase Daniel in the early season, who is putting up staggering numbers and becoming the early favorite in the Heisman race. Missouri is a real threat to reach the BCS title game, with a fairly soft Big XII schedule that doesn't include OU or Texas Tech. They do play Texas in Austin, however.
6. Texas (2-0)- Completes a trifecta of Big XII teams in the top 6. We dont know too much about them after two blowouts of inferior opponents, but they appear to be bouncing back from a disappointing season last year. The brutal Big XII South schedule makes an appearance in the title game unlikely, however.
7. LSU (2-0)- Harvard transfer Andrew Hatch has won his first two games at LSU, and now the going gets tough against a great Auburn defense which held Mississippi State to under 130 total yards and no points if not for their offense. LSU also has a great defense which will keep them in every game, as well as the fastest player in the SEC Trindon Holliday.
8. Alabama (3-0)- I hesitated to move the Tide up this far from what I thought of them in the preseason, which was a fringe top 25 team, but there arent too many more impressive wins out there than Alabama's 31-10 rout of Clemson in Atlanta. They have shown a more capable offense than Auburn as well as a defense capable of shutting down perhaps the nations best backfield.
9. Wisconsin (3-0)- Props to the Badgers for going out to Fresno and taking on the Bulldogs, and for coming away with a hard-fought 13-10 win. I don't know if Wisconsin is better than Ohio State, but after OSU's debachle in LA, it certainly appears they are the current Big Ten favorites
10. BYU (3-0)- Wow. Raise your hand if you saw BYU 59, UCLA 0 coming? After UCLA's defeat of Tennessee I actually thought they had a better than average chance of winning, but Max Hall threw for 6 TDs in the first half to emerge as a legit Heisman candidate, and BYU emerged as a legit BCS buster with the rout.
11. Auburn (3-0)- Well, we know that the Tigers have a great defense, but their offense looked as if it was extremely confused the first time running the spread against an SEC defense. Can they ride that great defense to an SEC title?
12. South Florida (3-0)- A great game Friday night against Kansas ended with a game winning FG as time expired. USF's defense has taken a hit since last year, and DE George Selve's sack numbers are down, but Matt Grothe and the offense are explosive for the clear Big East favorites.
13. East Carolina (3-0)- The comeback win against Tulane was equally as impressive as their wins over Virginia Tech and West Virginia, because it shows that this team is disciplined and won't let an inferior opponent sneak up on them at least for a whole game. They should be favored for the remaining games on their schedule, including games vs ACC bottom feeders NC State and Virginia.
14. Ohio State (2-1)- I guess I have to put them here somewhere, right? A total thud in LA followed up a bad performance against Ohio U a week earlier, and it is not all because Beanie Wells is hurt. OSU could very well run the table, but I really hope the voters will keep them out of the title game if they do.
15. Penn State (3-0)- The signs have been encouraging on offense for PSU, and the Oregon State rout was nice, but I wont be convinced until they do it against a decent defense. Theyll have their chance playing games at Wisconsin and OSU. This is a dark horse candidate to reach the Rose Bowl
16. Texas Tech (3-0)- The offense, though it is putting up decent numbers, isnt up to last years level right now. Harrell, Crabtree and company showed some signs of waking up vs. SMU, and their defense also played well which is cause for optimism, but in the Big XII South they will need consistent offense and defense to stay afloat.
17. Utah (3-0)- It is very possible that one of the biggest games of the year will be the Holy War between Utah and BYU, which could be for a berth in a BCS game. If Brian Johnson stays healthy, Utah has a very good chance of being 11-0 at that point, with their biggest test being TCU. Dominated Michigan for three quarters before almost letting it slip away.
18. Wake Forest (2-0)- Escaped with a last second FG against Ole Miss and now goes to Tallahassee for huge ACC Atlantic showdown. A win, and Wake is the clear favorite to appear in Jacksonville. Kicker Sam Swank may be the ACC player of the year if that happens.
19. Kansas (2-1)- Todd Reesing is probably not 6 feet, but he certainly is a top NCAA quarterback. He nearly orchestrated a great comeback Friday night at USF, and should be in the Heisman conversation.
20. Fresno State (2-1)- If not for three missed FGs, Fresno might be in the top 15 if not the top 10 after beating Wisconsin...instead theyll have to win out, which includes a trip to the Rose Bowl as well as a season ending game on the Blue Turf in Boise, for an outside BCS shot.
21. West Virginia (1-1)- Were blown out at East Carolina, but still this team has so much talent its hard to not have them in the top 25. Pat White and Noel Devine in the backfield make them a threat to score on every play, and all they have to do is defeat USF to reach another BCS game.
22. Oregon (3-0)- Nice come from behind win at Purude, but injury issues at QB continue to haunt the Ducks. At this point they may be the second best team in the weaker-than-expected Pac-10 however, meaning that they could be ticketed for Pasadena after USC takes its spot in the title game.
23. TCU (3-0)- A solid win over a much improved Stanford team gives the MWC 3 teams in the top 25. They must go to Norman to face OU in two weeks.
24. North Carolina (2-0)- Butch Davis has quickly turned UNC around and made them a legit contender for the ACC title. They get Virginia Tech in Chapel Hill this week and a win perhaps makes them the favorites in thge Coastal division.
25. Florida State (2-0)- It's hard to imagine that FSU has a key game against Wake Forest in which they hope to overtake the Deacons as the favorite in the Atlantic division. How things have changed in three years. FSU is lucky to be here, but they have dominated their first two opponents and are now starting to get some of their suspended players back.
-Chris
1. USC (2-0)- Trojans have outscored their first two opponents, both of BCS conferences, 87-10. The scariest part is that they made Ohio State look almost as bad as UVA.
2. Florida (2-0)- My preseason national championship pick is only not ranked #1 because of USC's sheer dominance. Florida has looked impressive in holding their first two opponents to a combined 13 points. The secondary looks much improved from last season despite playing two very weak offensive teams.
3. Georgia (3-0)- Handled South Carolina, which they hadn't been able to do for the past three seasons. Offense doesn't appear to be explosive against SEC level defenses, but it may be enough to get them to a BCS bowl with their stellar defense.
4. Oklahoma (3-0)- Sam Bradford and the offense have put up ridiculous numbers against inferior competition, and contributed to sealing Ty Willingham's fate at Washington. The Big XII title game could be a real shootout because...
5. Missouri (3-0)- No player in the nation has looked better than Chase Daniel in the early season, who is putting up staggering numbers and becoming the early favorite in the Heisman race. Missouri is a real threat to reach the BCS title game, with a fairly soft Big XII schedule that doesn't include OU or Texas Tech. They do play Texas in Austin, however.
6. Texas (2-0)- Completes a trifecta of Big XII teams in the top 6. We dont know too much about them after two blowouts of inferior opponents, but they appear to be bouncing back from a disappointing season last year. The brutal Big XII South schedule makes an appearance in the title game unlikely, however.
7. LSU (2-0)- Harvard transfer Andrew Hatch has won his first two games at LSU, and now the going gets tough against a great Auburn defense which held Mississippi State to under 130 total yards and no points if not for their offense. LSU also has a great defense which will keep them in every game, as well as the fastest player in the SEC Trindon Holliday.
8. Alabama (3-0)- I hesitated to move the Tide up this far from what I thought of them in the preseason, which was a fringe top 25 team, but there arent too many more impressive wins out there than Alabama's 31-10 rout of Clemson in Atlanta. They have shown a more capable offense than Auburn as well as a defense capable of shutting down perhaps the nations best backfield.
9. Wisconsin (3-0)- Props to the Badgers for going out to Fresno and taking on the Bulldogs, and for coming away with a hard-fought 13-10 win. I don't know if Wisconsin is better than Ohio State, but after OSU's debachle in LA, it certainly appears they are the current Big Ten favorites
10. BYU (3-0)- Wow. Raise your hand if you saw BYU 59, UCLA 0 coming? After UCLA's defeat of Tennessee I actually thought they had a better than average chance of winning, but Max Hall threw for 6 TDs in the first half to emerge as a legit Heisman candidate, and BYU emerged as a legit BCS buster with the rout.
11. Auburn (3-0)- Well, we know that the Tigers have a great defense, but their offense looked as if it was extremely confused the first time running the spread against an SEC defense. Can they ride that great defense to an SEC title?
12. South Florida (3-0)- A great game Friday night against Kansas ended with a game winning FG as time expired. USF's defense has taken a hit since last year, and DE George Selve's sack numbers are down, but Matt Grothe and the offense are explosive for the clear Big East favorites.
13. East Carolina (3-0)- The comeback win against Tulane was equally as impressive as their wins over Virginia Tech and West Virginia, because it shows that this team is disciplined and won't let an inferior opponent sneak up on them at least for a whole game. They should be favored for the remaining games on their schedule, including games vs ACC bottom feeders NC State and Virginia.
14. Ohio State (2-1)- I guess I have to put them here somewhere, right? A total thud in LA followed up a bad performance against Ohio U a week earlier, and it is not all because Beanie Wells is hurt. OSU could very well run the table, but I really hope the voters will keep them out of the title game if they do.
15. Penn State (3-0)- The signs have been encouraging on offense for PSU, and the Oregon State rout was nice, but I wont be convinced until they do it against a decent defense. Theyll have their chance playing games at Wisconsin and OSU. This is a dark horse candidate to reach the Rose Bowl
16. Texas Tech (3-0)- The offense, though it is putting up decent numbers, isnt up to last years level right now. Harrell, Crabtree and company showed some signs of waking up vs. SMU, and their defense also played well which is cause for optimism, but in the Big XII South they will need consistent offense and defense to stay afloat.
17. Utah (3-0)- It is very possible that one of the biggest games of the year will be the Holy War between Utah and BYU, which could be for a berth in a BCS game. If Brian Johnson stays healthy, Utah has a very good chance of being 11-0 at that point, with their biggest test being TCU. Dominated Michigan for three quarters before almost letting it slip away.
18. Wake Forest (2-0)- Escaped with a last second FG against Ole Miss and now goes to Tallahassee for huge ACC Atlantic showdown. A win, and Wake is the clear favorite to appear in Jacksonville. Kicker Sam Swank may be the ACC player of the year if that happens.
19. Kansas (2-1)- Todd Reesing is probably not 6 feet, but he certainly is a top NCAA quarterback. He nearly orchestrated a great comeback Friday night at USF, and should be in the Heisman conversation.
20. Fresno State (2-1)- If not for three missed FGs, Fresno might be in the top 15 if not the top 10 after beating Wisconsin...instead theyll have to win out, which includes a trip to the Rose Bowl as well as a season ending game on the Blue Turf in Boise, for an outside BCS shot.
21. West Virginia (1-1)- Were blown out at East Carolina, but still this team has so much talent its hard to not have them in the top 25. Pat White and Noel Devine in the backfield make them a threat to score on every play, and all they have to do is defeat USF to reach another BCS game.
22. Oregon (3-0)- Nice come from behind win at Purude, but injury issues at QB continue to haunt the Ducks. At this point they may be the second best team in the weaker-than-expected Pac-10 however, meaning that they could be ticketed for Pasadena after USC takes its spot in the title game.
23. TCU (3-0)- A solid win over a much improved Stanford team gives the MWC 3 teams in the top 25. They must go to Norman to face OU in two weeks.
24. North Carolina (2-0)- Butch Davis has quickly turned UNC around and made them a legit contender for the ACC title. They get Virginia Tech in Chapel Hill this week and a win perhaps makes them the favorites in thge Coastal division.
25. Florida State (2-0)- It's hard to imagine that FSU has a key game against Wake Forest in which they hope to overtake the Deacons as the favorite in the Atlantic division. How things have changed in three years. FSU is lucky to be here, but they have dominated their first two opponents and are now starting to get some of their suspended players back.
-Chris
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Welcome Bryce onboard as a NCAA bball analyst
We'd like to welcome Bryce Durgin onboard as our 3rd member. Bryce who is a sophomore at the University of Notre Dame brings immense sports knowledge with his expertise being NCAA college basketball knowledge expecially in the bracket part (Although I did have all the teams in the field but he was missing 2 but I digress...)
Also this year we will be making more frequent posts so check back in often.
CJ and Chris
Also this year we will be making more frequent posts so check back in often.
CJ and Chris
Thursday, July 24, 2008
MLB Trade Deadline- Where will they end up?
The List- (Will Be Updated everyday til the Deadline or they get moved)- July 24th edition
Fuentes- Tampa, call me crazy but I think they are going to pay what it takes to get that playoff revenue if possible
Teix- Red Sox, Theo loves Teix, and when Theo loves someone he gets him eventually (See Drew and Lugo)
Holliday- Colorado, the price is too high for a deadline deal
AJ Burnett- Phillies, if the price comes down philly should bite at him
Xavier Nady- Pittsburgh, price is too high for sure
Jason Bay- Same as Nady
Marte- Red Sox, I can see a Tier B Minor leaguer or 2 going to the pirates for marte, but it might be too cheap
-CJ
Comments/Suggestions to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Fuentes- Tampa, call me crazy but I think they are going to pay what it takes to get that playoff revenue if possible
Teix- Red Sox, Theo loves Teix, and when Theo loves someone he gets him eventually (See Drew and Lugo)
Holliday- Colorado, the price is too high for a deadline deal
AJ Burnett- Phillies, if the price comes down philly should bite at him
Xavier Nady- Pittsburgh, price is too high for sure
Jason Bay- Same as Nady
Marte- Red Sox, I can see a Tier B Minor leaguer or 2 going to the pirates for marte, but it might be too cheap
-CJ
Comments/Suggestions to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Midseaon Division Standings- CJ
Look at Midseason Review for playoff predictions:
Predicted order of finish in divisions
NL East
1. Phillies
2. Mets (WC)
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals
NL Central
1. Cubs
2. Brewers
3. Cardinals
4. Reds
5. Astros
6. Pirates
NL West
1. Diamondbacks
2. Dodgers
3. Rockies
4. Padres
5. Giants
AL East
1. Red Sox
2. Rays (Wild Card)
3. Yankees
4. Blue Jays
5. Orioles
AL Central
1. White Sox
2. Tigers
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals
AL West
1. Angels
2. Athletics
3. Rangers
4. Mariners
Predicted order of finish in divisions
NL East
1. Phillies
2. Mets (WC)
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals
NL Central
1. Cubs
2. Brewers
3. Cardinals
4. Reds
5. Astros
6. Pirates
NL West
1. Diamondbacks
2. Dodgers
3. Rockies
4. Padres
5. Giants
AL East
1. Red Sox
2. Rays (Wild Card)
3. Yankees
4. Blue Jays
5. Orioles
AL Central
1. White Sox
2. Tigers
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals
AL West
1. Angels
2. Athletics
3. Rangers
4. Mariners
Confrerence Standings and Conference winners 2.0 - CJ
ACC Atlantic
1. Wake Forest- winner due to no one else having talent
2. Clemson- I will not ever pick them until they win something
3. BC- look for an early start but will fade after ND loss
4. Florida State
5. Maryland
6. NC State
ACC Coastal
1. Virginia Tech- Beamer ball will squeak them by Miami
2. Miami= 1 yr away!
3. Georgia Tech- Paul Johnson should be ACC coach of the Year
4. UVA- 4th due to no better candidates
5. UNC- not last beacause they have a Division 3 team in their division
6. Duke
ACC Champ- Virginia Tech
Big Ten
1. Ohio State
2. Wisconsin
3. Purdue
4. U of I
5. Penn State
6. Iowa
7. Michigan State
8. Michigan
9. Indiana
10.Northwestern
11. Minnesota
Big East
1. USF
2. WVU
3. Rutgers
4. Cincinnati
5. Pittsburgh
6. Louisville
7. Connecticut
8. Syracuse
Big XII
North
1. Missouri
2. Kansas
3. Nebraska
4. Colorado
5. Kansas State
6. Iowa State
South
1. Texas Tech- call it a gut pick, something weird happens every year and this is it
2. Oklahoma
3. Texas
4. Texas A&M
5. Oklahoma State
6. Baylor
Big XII Champ- Missouri
SEC
East
1. UGA- UGA will be the most talented team this year, so they should win
2. Florida- UGA has the most talent, but Florida has the 2nd most talent
3. Tennessee- In the wrong division
4. Vanderbilt
5. South Carolina- Spurrier's last year
6. Kentucky
West
1. Auburn- could make the BCS regret their 2 teams/conference rule.
2. LSU- Might regret not going to Michigan if they finish 3rd in the SEC West
3. Mississippi State- Croom's team could sneak up to 2nd
4. Alabama
5. Arkanasas
6. Ole Miss
SEC Champ- UGA
Pac 10
1. USC
2. Arizona State
3. Arizona- Stoops get an extension after reviving Wildcat football
4. California
5. Oregon
6. UCLA
7. Washington
8. Oregon State
9. Stanford
10. Washington State
Other Conference Champs
CUSA: East Carolina
Mountain West: BYU
WAC: Fresno State
MAC: Bowling Green
Sun Belt: Florida Atlantic
BCS Games:
Rose Bowl: Ohio State (Big Ten) vs Arizona State (at large)- if the Rose Bowl didn't try for the Pac-10-Big X matchup WVU would be the pick.
Sugar Bowl: Florida (at large) vs South Florida (Big East)
Orange Bowl: Virginia Tech (ACC) vs Texas Tech (at large)
Sugar Bowl: Missouri (Big XII) vs West Virginia (at large)
BCS National Championship: UGA vs USC
BCS Champion: UGA
-CJ
1. Wake Forest- winner due to no one else having talent
2. Clemson- I will not ever pick them until they win something
3. BC- look for an early start but will fade after ND loss
4. Florida State
5. Maryland
6. NC State
ACC Coastal
1. Virginia Tech- Beamer ball will squeak them by Miami
2. Miami= 1 yr away!
3. Georgia Tech- Paul Johnson should be ACC coach of the Year
4. UVA- 4th due to no better candidates
5. UNC- not last beacause they have a Division 3 team in their division
6. Duke
ACC Champ- Virginia Tech
Big Ten
1. Ohio State
2. Wisconsin
3. Purdue
4. U of I
5. Penn State
6. Iowa
7. Michigan State
8. Michigan
9. Indiana
10.Northwestern
11. Minnesota
Big East
1. USF
2. WVU
3. Rutgers
4. Cincinnati
5. Pittsburgh
6. Louisville
7. Connecticut
8. Syracuse
Big XII
North
1. Missouri
2. Kansas
3. Nebraska
4. Colorado
5. Kansas State
6. Iowa State
South
1. Texas Tech- call it a gut pick, something weird happens every year and this is it
2. Oklahoma
3. Texas
4. Texas A&M
5. Oklahoma State
6. Baylor
Big XII Champ- Missouri
SEC
East
1. UGA- UGA will be the most talented team this year, so they should win
2. Florida- UGA has the most talent, but Florida has the 2nd most talent
3. Tennessee- In the wrong division
4. Vanderbilt
5. South Carolina- Spurrier's last year
6. Kentucky
West
1. Auburn- could make the BCS regret their 2 teams/conference rule.
2. LSU- Might regret not going to Michigan if they finish 3rd in the SEC West
3. Mississippi State- Croom's team could sneak up to 2nd
4. Alabama
5. Arkanasas
6. Ole Miss
SEC Champ- UGA
Pac 10
1. USC
2. Arizona State
3. Arizona- Stoops get an extension after reviving Wildcat football
4. California
5. Oregon
6. UCLA
7. Washington
8. Oregon State
9. Stanford
10. Washington State
Other Conference Champs
CUSA: East Carolina
Mountain West: BYU
WAC: Fresno State
MAC: Bowling Green
Sun Belt: Florida Atlantic
BCS Games:
Rose Bowl: Ohio State (Big Ten) vs Arizona State (at large)- if the Rose Bowl didn't try for the Pac-10-Big X matchup WVU would be the pick.
Sugar Bowl: Florida (at large) vs South Florida (Big East)
Orange Bowl: Virginia Tech (ACC) vs Texas Tech (at large)
Sugar Bowl: Missouri (Big XII) vs West Virginia (at large)
BCS National Championship: UGA vs USC
BCS Champion: UGA
-CJ
Sunday, July 13, 2008
MLB Midseason Predictions- Chris
Predicted order of finish in divisions
NL East
1. Mets
2. Phillies
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals
NL Central
1. Cubs
2. Brewers (Wild Card)
3. Cardinals
4. Reds
5. Pirates
6. Astros
NL West
1. Diamondbacks
2. Dodgers
3. Rockies
4. Padres
5. Giants
Playoff matchups
Cubs (Best Record) vs Diamonbacks (Worst Division Leader Record) (DBacks in 5)
Mets (East) vs Brewers (WC) (Mets in 4)
DBacks vs Mets (DBacks in 6)
AL East
1. Red Sox
2. Yankees (Wild Card)
3. Rays
4. Blue Jays
5. Orioles
AL Central
1. White Sox
2. Tigers
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals
AL West
1. Angels
2. Athletics
3. Rangers
4. Mariners
Playoff matchups
Angels (Best Record) vs Yankees (WC) (Angels in 5)
Red Sox (East) vs White Sox (Central) (Red Sox in 3)
Angels vs Red Sox (Red Sox in 5)
World Series Red Sox over Diamondbacks in 5
NL Awards
MVP: Albert Pujols, Cardinals- Despite the Cardinals just missing the playoffs, Pujols will deserve this award because without him the Cardinals would not even be close to the .500 mark, let alone the playoffs. The rest of their lineup certainly doesn't strike fear into the hearts of opposing pitchers.
CY Young: Brandon Webb, Diamondbacks- There are many good Cy Young candidates in the NL, including Webb's teammate Dan Haren, Carlos Zambrano, Ben Sheets, Tim Lincecum among others, but Webb should come out on top partly due to the offensive weakness of his division.
AL Awards:
MVP: Josh Hamilton, Rangers- 95 RBI at the All-Star break is just insane, and even though the Rangers will probably miss the playoffs, he has still made them much more respectable than people thought they would be this season. A good case could be made for Alex Rodriguez especially if the Yankees make the postseason.
Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Blue Jays- I also considered Justin Duchscherer of Oakland and Cliff Lee of Cleveland. Halladay appears to be warming up for a big second half and could possibly get to 20 wins, although that is a long shot for any AL pitcher right now. I do not believe a reliever should win this award, so I did not consider Francisco Rodriguez or Mariano Rivera.
-Chris
NL East
1. Mets
2. Phillies
3. Braves
4. Marlins
5. Nationals
NL Central
1. Cubs
2. Brewers (Wild Card)
3. Cardinals
4. Reds
5. Pirates
6. Astros
NL West
1. Diamondbacks
2. Dodgers
3. Rockies
4. Padres
5. Giants
Playoff matchups
Cubs (Best Record) vs Diamonbacks (Worst Division Leader Record) (DBacks in 5)
Mets (East) vs Brewers (WC) (Mets in 4)
DBacks vs Mets (DBacks in 6)
AL East
1. Red Sox
2. Yankees (Wild Card)
3. Rays
4. Blue Jays
5. Orioles
AL Central
1. White Sox
2. Tigers
3. Twins
4. Indians
5. Royals
AL West
1. Angels
2. Athletics
3. Rangers
4. Mariners
Playoff matchups
Angels (Best Record) vs Yankees (WC) (Angels in 5)
Red Sox (East) vs White Sox (Central) (Red Sox in 3)
Angels vs Red Sox (Red Sox in 5)
World Series Red Sox over Diamondbacks in 5
NL Awards
MVP: Albert Pujols, Cardinals- Despite the Cardinals just missing the playoffs, Pujols will deserve this award because without him the Cardinals would not even be close to the .500 mark, let alone the playoffs. The rest of their lineup certainly doesn't strike fear into the hearts of opposing pitchers.
CY Young: Brandon Webb, Diamondbacks- There are many good Cy Young candidates in the NL, including Webb's teammate Dan Haren, Carlos Zambrano, Ben Sheets, Tim Lincecum among others, but Webb should come out on top partly due to the offensive weakness of his division.
AL Awards:
MVP: Josh Hamilton, Rangers- 95 RBI at the All-Star break is just insane, and even though the Rangers will probably miss the playoffs, he has still made them much more respectable than people thought they would be this season. A good case could be made for Alex Rodriguez especially if the Yankees make the postseason.
Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Blue Jays- I also considered Justin Duchscherer of Oakland and Cliff Lee of Cleveland. Halladay appears to be warming up for a big second half and could possibly get to 20 wins, although that is a long shot for any AL pitcher right now. I do not believe a reliever should win this award, so I did not consider Francisco Rodriguez or Mariano Rivera.
-Chris
College Football conference picks- Chris
ACC Atlantic
1. Clemson
2. Wake Forest
3. Florida State
4. Boston College
5. Maryland
6. NC State
ACC Coastal
1. Virginia Tech
2. Miami
3. North Carolina
4. Georgia Tech
5. Virginia
6. Duke
ACC Champ- Virginia Tech
Big Ten
1. Ohio State
2. Illinois
3. Penn State
4. Wisconsin
5. Purdue
6. Iowa
7. Michigan
8. Michigan State
9. Indiana
10.Northwestern
11. Minnesota
Big East
1. West Virginia
2. South Florida
3. Rutgers
4. Pittsburgh
5. Louisville
6. Cincinnati
7. Connecticut
8. Syracuse
Big XII
North
1. Missouri
2. Colorado
3. Kansas
4. Nebraska
5. Kansas State
6. Iowa State
South
1. Oklahoma
2. Texas Tech
3. Texas
4. Texas A&M
5. Oklahoma State
6. Baylor
Big XII Champ- Oklahoma
SEC
East
1. Florida
2. Georgia
3. Tennessee
4. South Carolina
5. Vanderbilt
6. Kentucky
West
1. Auburn
2. LSU
3. Mississippi State
4. Alabama
5. Arkanasas
6. Ole Miss
SEC Champ- Florida
Pac 10
1. USC
2. Arizona State
3. California
4. Oregon
5. Arizona
6. UCLA
7. Washington
8. Oregon State
9. Stanford
10. Washington State
Other Conference Champs
CUSA: East Carolina
Mountain West: BYU
WAC: Fresno State
MAC: Central Michigan
Sun Belt: Florida Atlantic
BCS Games:
Rose Bowl: Ohio State (Big Ten) vs Arizona State (at large)
Sugar Bowl: Auburn (at large) vs West Virginia (Big East)
Orange Bowl: Virginia Tech (ACC) vs Missouri (at large)
Sugar Bowl: Oklahoma (Big XII) vs Fresno State (at large)
BCS National Championship: Florida vs USC
BCS Champion: Florida
-Chris
1. Clemson
2. Wake Forest
3. Florida State
4. Boston College
5. Maryland
6. NC State
ACC Coastal
1. Virginia Tech
2. Miami
3. North Carolina
4. Georgia Tech
5. Virginia
6. Duke
ACC Champ- Virginia Tech
Big Ten
1. Ohio State
2. Illinois
3. Penn State
4. Wisconsin
5. Purdue
6. Iowa
7. Michigan
8. Michigan State
9. Indiana
10.Northwestern
11. Minnesota
Big East
1. West Virginia
2. South Florida
3. Rutgers
4. Pittsburgh
5. Louisville
6. Cincinnati
7. Connecticut
8. Syracuse
Big XII
North
1. Missouri
2. Colorado
3. Kansas
4. Nebraska
5. Kansas State
6. Iowa State
South
1. Oklahoma
2. Texas Tech
3. Texas
4. Texas A&M
5. Oklahoma State
6. Baylor
Big XII Champ- Oklahoma
SEC
East
1. Florida
2. Georgia
3. Tennessee
4. South Carolina
5. Vanderbilt
6. Kentucky
West
1. Auburn
2. LSU
3. Mississippi State
4. Alabama
5. Arkanasas
6. Ole Miss
SEC Champ- Florida
Pac 10
1. USC
2. Arizona State
3. California
4. Oregon
5. Arizona
6. UCLA
7. Washington
8. Oregon State
9. Stanford
10. Washington State
Other Conference Champs
CUSA: East Carolina
Mountain West: BYU
WAC: Fresno State
MAC: Central Michigan
Sun Belt: Florida Atlantic
BCS Games:
Rose Bowl: Ohio State (Big Ten) vs Arizona State (at large)
Sugar Bowl: Auburn (at large) vs West Virginia (Big East)
Orange Bowl: Virginia Tech (ACC) vs Missouri (at large)
Sugar Bowl: Oklahoma (Big XII) vs Fresno State (at large)
BCS National Championship: Florida vs USC
BCS Champion: Florida
-Chris
Thursday, July 10, 2008
College Football Conference Winners V 1.0- CJ
I'm not going to do too much explanation in this prediction edition but here are my early picks to win all the Major BCS conferences along with a sleeper team in each:
ACC: Virginia Tech Sleeper: Wake Forest
Big East: USF Sleeper: Cincinnati Bearcats
Big X: Ohio State Sleeper: Purdue Boilermakers
Big XII: Missouri Sleeper: Texas Tech
Pac-10: USC Sleeper: Arizona Wildcats
SEC: UGA!!! Sleeper: Auburn Tigers
Preseason National Title Game: UGA (11-1) vs. USC (10-2)
Preseason National Champion: UGA BULLDOGS!!!
-CJ
Comments to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
ACC: Virginia Tech Sleeper: Wake Forest
Big East: USF Sleeper: Cincinnati Bearcats
Big X: Ohio State Sleeper: Purdue Boilermakers
Big XII: Missouri Sleeper: Texas Tech
Pac-10: USC Sleeper: Arizona Wildcats
SEC: UGA!!! Sleeper: Auburn Tigers
Preseason National Title Game: UGA (11-1) vs. USC (10-2)
Preseason National Champion: UGA BULLDOGS!!!
-CJ
Comments to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Preseason Baseball Predictions Review and Midseason Predictions
.500 in a lot of things is good, but when it come to predictions its not that good at all.
At the midway point in the season I got the Cubs and Diamondbacks all right and the Sox have a playoff spot but it goes way downhill from there. Cleveland is horrible, the Mariners are worse than them. I'll take some credit for knowing the Tigers were overrated but this wildcard spot is in real jeopardy.
I still think the Braves will make a run but its definitely the Phillies division to lose. The Cubs will hold on a Milwaukee team even with CC that will struggle to make the playoffs due to streaky hitting and a horrible bullpen. The Diamondbacks will easily win the NL West and their best baseball has yet to come.
As for the Devil Rays, I thought they'd be better but not this good, but they won't stay this high, as they will take the Wild Card in the AL but i don't think they'll do much better than that.
So my modified midseason projections: (Bold indicates change from preseason
AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: White Sox
AL West: LAA
Wild Card: Devil Rays
Team that will just miss out: Tigers
NL East: Phillies
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Diamondbacks
Wild Card: Mets
Teams that will just miss out: Brewers, Marlins, Braves
Playoffs:
Red Sox over LAA
Devil Rays over White Sox
Diamondbacks over Mets
Phillies over Cubs
Red Sox over Devil Rays
Diamondbacks over Phillies
Sox over Diamondbacks in 6
Division Rankings: (Previous rank in Parenthesis)
1) AL East (1)- 4 Deep, why Red Sox could have lowest record of all division winners but be the best team
2) NL Central(6)- Bottom 3 are really weak, but top 3 are strong
3) NL East (3)- Any Division with the Nationals can't be top 2
4) AL West (5)- A's are a lot better than I expected, Rangers developing nicely
5) AL Central (2)- Not sure what to think of this division, we'll see come playoff time
6) NL West (4)- the 2nd-4th should just be chosen from a hat, cause they are all terrible
-CJ
Comments to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
At the midway point in the season I got the Cubs and Diamondbacks all right and the Sox have a playoff spot but it goes way downhill from there. Cleveland is horrible, the Mariners are worse than them. I'll take some credit for knowing the Tigers were overrated but this wildcard spot is in real jeopardy.
I still think the Braves will make a run but its definitely the Phillies division to lose. The Cubs will hold on a Milwaukee team even with CC that will struggle to make the playoffs due to streaky hitting and a horrible bullpen. The Diamondbacks will easily win the NL West and their best baseball has yet to come.
As for the Devil Rays, I thought they'd be better but not this good, but they won't stay this high, as they will take the Wild Card in the AL but i don't think they'll do much better than that.
So my modified midseason projections: (Bold indicates change from preseason
AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: White Sox
AL West: LAA
Wild Card: Devil Rays
Team that will just miss out: Tigers
NL East: Phillies
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Diamondbacks
Wild Card: Mets
Teams that will just miss out: Brewers, Marlins, Braves
Playoffs:
Red Sox over LAA
Devil Rays over White Sox
Diamondbacks over Mets
Phillies over Cubs
Red Sox over Devil Rays
Diamondbacks over Phillies
Sox over Diamondbacks in 6
Division Rankings: (Previous rank in Parenthesis)
1) AL East (1)- 4 Deep, why Red Sox could have lowest record of all division winners but be the best team
2) NL Central(6)- Bottom 3 are really weak, but top 3 are strong
3) NL East (3)- Any Division with the Nationals can't be top 2
4) AL West (5)- A's are a lot better than I expected, Rangers developing nicely
5) AL Central (2)- Not sure what to think of this division, we'll see come playoff time
6) NL West (4)- the 2nd-4th should just be chosen from a hat, cause they are all terrible
-CJ
Comments to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Sunday, May 4, 2008
NCAA Lacrosse Bracketology
Projected Seeds, with RPI, SOS, and Quality Wins ranking listed after the team
1. Duke 1 3 1
2. Virginia 3 2 3
3. Syracuse 2 12 2
4. North Carolina 4 1 12
5. Johns Hopkins 7 4 11
6. Cornell (IVY) 6 17 5
7. Notre Dame (GWLL) 5 24 4
8. Colgate (Patriot) 9 8 10
Automatic Bids
Loyola (ECAC) 21 20 22
Hofstra (CAA) 11 18 15
UMBC (America East) 15 29 6
Canisius (MAAC) 36 54 29
Leaving four at larges open, for which the top candidates are
Ohio State 8 9 9
Maryland 10 5 14
Denver 12 6 13
Navy 13 10 17
Drexel 20 27 7
Brown 14 36 8
Army 17 7 19
Looking at the numbers, Bucknell, Princeton and Georgetown do not have much of a chance. I believe that the top four of these will get in, with OSU and Maryland being locks, and the final two in being Denver and Navy.
Because of NCAA travel regulations, there can only be two teams that travel 350 or more miles for the first round.
First Round Matchups:
Quarterfinal in Annapolis
1 Duke vs Loyola
8 Colgate vs Hofstra
2 Virginia vs Navy
7 Notre Dame vs Ohio State
Quarterfinal in Ithaca
3 Syracuse vs Canisius
6 Cornell vs Denver (Flight)
4 North Carolina vs UMBC
5 Johns Hopkins vs Maryland
1. Duke 1 3 1
2. Virginia 3 2 3
3. Syracuse 2 12 2
4. North Carolina 4 1 12
5. Johns Hopkins 7 4 11
6. Cornell (IVY) 6 17 5
7. Notre Dame (GWLL) 5 24 4
8. Colgate (Patriot) 9 8 10
Automatic Bids
Loyola (ECAC) 21 20 22
Hofstra (CAA) 11 18 15
UMBC (America East) 15 29 6
Canisius (MAAC) 36 54 29
Leaving four at larges open, for which the top candidates are
Ohio State 8 9 9
Maryland 10 5 14
Denver 12 6 13
Navy 13 10 17
Drexel 20 27 7
Brown 14 36 8
Army 17 7 19
Looking at the numbers, Bucknell, Princeton and Georgetown do not have much of a chance. I believe that the top four of these will get in, with OSU and Maryland being locks, and the final two in being Denver and Navy.
Because of NCAA travel regulations, there can only be two teams that travel 350 or more miles for the first round.
First Round Matchups:
Quarterfinal in Annapolis
1 Duke vs Loyola
8 Colgate vs Hofstra
2 Virginia vs Navy
7 Notre Dame vs Ohio State
Quarterfinal in Ithaca
3 Syracuse vs Canisius
6 Cornell vs Denver (Flight)
4 North Carolina vs UMBC
5 Johns Hopkins vs Maryland
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Mock 2.0
ROUND ONE
1. Miami - Jake Long OT Michigan
2. St. Louis- Chris Long DE Virginia
3. Atlanta- Matt Ryan QB BC
4. Oakland- Darren McFadden RB Arkansas
5. Kansas City- Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State
6. New York Jets- Glenn Dorsey DT Arkansas
7. New England (from San Francisco)- Sedrick Ellis DE USC
8. Baltimore- Leodis McKelvin CB Troy
9. Cincinnati- Branden Albert OG Virginia
10. New Orleans- Keith Rivers LB USC
11. Buffalo- Aqib Talib CB Kansas
12. Denver- Derrick Harvey DE Florida
13. Carolina- Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh
14. Chicago- Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt
15. Detroit- Rashard Mendenhall RB Illonis
16. Arizona- Rodgers-Cromartie CB Troy
17. Kansas City- Ryan Clady OT Boise State
18. Houston- Mike Jenkins CB South Florida
19. Philadelphia- Devin Thomas WR Michigan State
20. Tampa Bay- Phillip Merling DE Clemson
21. Washington- DeSean Jackson WR Cal
22. Dallas (from Cleveland)- Felix Jones RB Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh- Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma
24. Tennessee- James Hardy WR Indiana
25. Seattle- Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon
26. Jacksonville- Kentwan Balmer DT UNC
27. San Diego- Gosder Cherilus OT BC *
28. Dallas- Limas Sweed WR Texas *
29. San Francisco (from Indianapolis)- Jerod Mayo LB Tennessee
30. Green Bay- Dustin Keller TE Purdue
31. New York Giants- Tyrell Johnson S Arkansas State
* One of the starred picks will be traded to either Baltimore or The Chiefs to select Joe Flacco QB of Delaware
1. Miami - Jake Long OT Michigan
2. St. Louis- Chris Long DE Virginia
3. Atlanta- Matt Ryan QB BC
4. Oakland- Darren McFadden RB Arkansas
5. Kansas City- Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State
6. New York Jets- Glenn Dorsey DT Arkansas
7. New England (from San Francisco)- Sedrick Ellis DE USC
8. Baltimore- Leodis McKelvin CB Troy
9. Cincinnati- Branden Albert OG Virginia
10. New Orleans- Keith Rivers LB USC
11. Buffalo- Aqib Talib CB Kansas
12. Denver- Derrick Harvey DE Florida
13. Carolina- Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh
14. Chicago- Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt
15. Detroit- Rashard Mendenhall RB Illonis
16. Arizona- Rodgers-Cromartie CB Troy
17. Kansas City- Ryan Clady OT Boise State
18. Houston- Mike Jenkins CB South Florida
19. Philadelphia- Devin Thomas WR Michigan State
20. Tampa Bay- Phillip Merling DE Clemson
21. Washington- DeSean Jackson WR Cal
22. Dallas (from Cleveland)- Felix Jones RB Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh- Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma
24. Tennessee- James Hardy WR Indiana
25. Seattle- Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon
26. Jacksonville- Kentwan Balmer DT UNC
27. San Diego- Gosder Cherilus OT BC *
28. Dallas- Limas Sweed WR Texas *
29. San Francisco (from Indianapolis)- Jerod Mayo LB Tennessee
30. Green Bay- Dustin Keller TE Purdue
31. New York Giants- Tyrell Johnson S Arkansas State
* One of the starred picks will be traded to either Baltimore or The Chiefs to select Joe Flacco QB of Delaware
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
CJ's Mock Draft 1.0
Final Mock with comments will be posted Friday but for now here are the players i currently project each team taking.
ROUND ONE
1. Miami - Jake Long OT Michigan
2. St. Louis- Glenn Dorsey DT LSU
3. Atlanta- Matt Ryan QB BC
4. Oakland- Chris Long DE Virginia
5. Kansas City- Ryan Clady OT Boise State
6. New York Jets- Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State
7. New England (from San Francisco)- Darren McFadden RB Arkansas
8. Baltimore- Sedrick Ellis DE USC
9. Cincinnati- Branden Albert OG Virginia
10. New Orleans- Keith Rivers LB USC
11. Buffalo- Aqib Talib CB Kansas
12. Denver- Rashard Mendenhall RB Illionis
13. Carolina- Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh
14. Chicago- Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt
15. Detroit- Leodis McKelvin CB Troy
16. Arizona- Rodgers-Cromartie CB Troy
17. Minnesota- Derrick Harvey DE Florida
18. Houston- Mike Jenkins CB South Florida
19. Philadelphia- Devin Thomas WR Michigan State
20. Tampa Bay- Phillip Merling DE Clemson
21. Washington- DeSean Jackson WR Cal
22. Dallas (from Cleveland)- Felix Jones RB Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh- Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma
24. Tennessee- James Hardy WR Indiana
25. Seattle- Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon
26. Jacksonville- Kentwan Balmer DT UNC
27. San Diego- Gosder Cherilus OT BC *
28. Dallas- Limas Sweed WR Texas *
29. San Francisco (from Indianapolis)- Jerod Mayo LB Tennessee
30. Green Bay- Dustin Keller TE Purdue
31. New York Giants- Tyrell Johnson S Arkansas State
* One of the starred picks will be traded to either Baltimore or The Chiefs to select Joe Flacco QB of Delaware
ROUND ONE
1. Miami - Jake Long OT Michigan
2. St. Louis- Glenn Dorsey DT LSU
3. Atlanta- Matt Ryan QB BC
4. Oakland- Chris Long DE Virginia
5. Kansas City- Ryan Clady OT Boise State
6. New York Jets- Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State
7. New England (from San Francisco)- Darren McFadden RB Arkansas
8. Baltimore- Sedrick Ellis DE USC
9. Cincinnati- Branden Albert OG Virginia
10. New Orleans- Keith Rivers LB USC
11. Buffalo- Aqib Talib CB Kansas
12. Denver- Rashard Mendenhall RB Illionis
13. Carolina- Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh
14. Chicago- Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt
15. Detroit- Leodis McKelvin CB Troy
16. Arizona- Rodgers-Cromartie CB Troy
17. Minnesota- Derrick Harvey DE Florida
18. Houston- Mike Jenkins CB South Florida
19. Philadelphia- Devin Thomas WR Michigan State
20. Tampa Bay- Phillip Merling DE Clemson
21. Washington- DeSean Jackson WR Cal
22. Dallas (from Cleveland)- Felix Jones RB Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh- Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma
24. Tennessee- James Hardy WR Indiana
25. Seattle- Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon
26. Jacksonville- Kentwan Balmer DT UNC
27. San Diego- Gosder Cherilus OT BC *
28. Dallas- Limas Sweed WR Texas *
29. San Francisco (from Indianapolis)- Jerod Mayo LB Tennessee
30. Green Bay- Dustin Keller TE Purdue
31. New York Giants- Tyrell Johnson S Arkansas State
* One of the starred picks will be traded to either Baltimore or The Chiefs to select Joe Flacco QB of Delaware
Friday, April 11, 2008
Frozen Four Championship Game
My dream scenario became a reality when the Irish overcame problem after problem to defeat Michigan 5-4 in OT but BC was extremely dominant in their 6-1 win over North Dakota.
I'm going to give the edge to forwards, defense, goaltending, coaching, and the X-factor and then the final score.
Forwards- Advantage: BC- Notre Dame is hot in the tournament average 5 goals a game however their offense couldn't score the previous 2 months. Which offense is going to show up? Thats probably one of the big keys in this game. Gerbe is a stud and will be a challenge for the Irish defense.
Defense- Advantage: Irish- The Irish have a good mixture of veterans and young players anchoring the blue line, but with the age also comes elite talent with 1st rounder Ian Cole, U.S. Under-18 star Kyle Lawson along with Brett Blatchford have been very solid all season long keeping the Irish in games when they couldn't score. Look for ND to have some success shutting down the powerful BC attack. BC is young on the blueline, but are talented but they just don't have the minutes that the ND defense has and late in a big game that could be all the difference.
Goaltending- Advantage: Even (But forced to choose I'd take the Irish)- Both talented goalies in their 1st full year as a starter and this will be the biggest game of their careers. Pierce although more experienced and wiser as a junior is coming off a very weak performance. Will he pick up his game or is he cracking under the pressure? BC's goalie never had to deal with that pressure since that game was over in the 1st period. What happens if BC falls into a 1-0, 2-0 or even 3-0 hole? Will he be able to keep his cool? And as the game gets later and later, will he focus on saves or thinking about being the next goat?
Coaching- EVEN- Jackson vs York, York vs Jackson... this is as even as it will ever get
X-factor- Advantage: Irish- BC has been to 2 straight title games and come away empty. If they fall behind early will they see it as fate dooming them again? If its tight late, will replays of the last 2 years enter their minds? Irish are hot and playing on a 2nd life so they should be more relaxed than BC will be...
Final Score: I'm torn... BC is more talented team but the formula seems right for the Irish, Cinderella ride, team that can't win titles... I'm going to say the slipper fits:
Irish 5-3
I'm going to give the edge to forwards, defense, goaltending, coaching, and the X-factor and then the final score.
Forwards- Advantage: BC- Notre Dame is hot in the tournament average 5 goals a game however their offense couldn't score the previous 2 months. Which offense is going to show up? Thats probably one of the big keys in this game. Gerbe is a stud and will be a challenge for the Irish defense.
Defense- Advantage: Irish- The Irish have a good mixture of veterans and young players anchoring the blue line, but with the age also comes elite talent with 1st rounder Ian Cole, U.S. Under-18 star Kyle Lawson along with Brett Blatchford have been very solid all season long keeping the Irish in games when they couldn't score. Look for ND to have some success shutting down the powerful BC attack. BC is young on the blueline, but are talented but they just don't have the minutes that the ND defense has and late in a big game that could be all the difference.
Goaltending- Advantage: Even (But forced to choose I'd take the Irish)- Both talented goalies in their 1st full year as a starter and this will be the biggest game of their careers. Pierce although more experienced and wiser as a junior is coming off a very weak performance. Will he pick up his game or is he cracking under the pressure? BC's goalie never had to deal with that pressure since that game was over in the 1st period. What happens if BC falls into a 1-0, 2-0 or even 3-0 hole? Will he be able to keep his cool? And as the game gets later and later, will he focus on saves or thinking about being the next goat?
Coaching- EVEN- Jackson vs York, York vs Jackson... this is as even as it will ever get
X-factor- Advantage: Irish- BC has been to 2 straight title games and come away empty. If they fall behind early will they see it as fate dooming them again? If its tight late, will replays of the last 2 years enter their minds? Irish are hot and playing on a 2nd life so they should be more relaxed than BC will be...
Final Score: I'm torn... BC is more talented team but the formula seems right for the Irish, Cinderella ride, team that can't win titles... I'm going to say the slipper fits:
Irish 5-3
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Frozen Four- Dream vs Reality
The Dream Scenario:
BC wins 3-1 over North Dakota and Notre Dame beats Michigan 5-2 to make it a rivalry championship game between the Irish and the Eagles... one side will make this happen... the other won't
Reality
BC wins 3-1: When BC gets to Frozen Four's, they get to title games and with this team as hot as it is I see no reason they won't take out the overtired North Dakota.
Michigan wins 4-3: The Irish will keep this close but Michigan's numerous X-factors will make sure the Big Blue get to the final.
-CJ
Comments to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com or post them here
BC wins 3-1 over North Dakota and Notre Dame beats Michigan 5-2 to make it a rivalry championship game between the Irish and the Eagles... one side will make this happen... the other won't
Reality
BC wins 3-1: When BC gets to Frozen Four's, they get to title games and with this team as hot as it is I see no reason they won't take out the overtired North Dakota.
Michigan wins 4-3: The Irish will keep this close but Michigan's numerous X-factors will make sure the Big Blue get to the final.
-CJ
Comments to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com or post them here
D1 Men's Lax picks 4/12
Now that the college basketball season is over and we are waiting for the muddle of the NBA early entries to clear, its time to get into the stretch drive of the college lacrosse season. Here are my picks for games involving ranked teams this Saturday
1 Duke at 3 Virginia- The two most explosive teams meet in a battle to decide the #1 seed in the ACC tourney and perhaps the NCAA tourney as well. Though Duke may be the more talented team, I will take UVA at home, 13-11
2 Syracuse at Rutgers- The Orange will have too much talent in this one, theyll win big, 16-5 Cuse
4 Georgetown at 19 Loyola- A must win game for the Hounds, who are still unbeaten in the ECAC. But with Scott Kocis expected to return for the Hoyas, expect Georgetown to win a close game, 10-8
Dartmouth at 5 Cornell- Cornell wins this one big, bouncing back from the big loss at Syracuse. 15-6 Big Red over Big Green
6 Navy at 13 Army- The best West Point team in a few years has a real chance to end a 13 game losing streak to their archrivals from Annapolis. My upset of the week, the Cadets win 7-6.
7 Maryland at 15 Johns Hopkins- A must win for Hopkins, who is in danger of missing the NCAA tournament for the first time ever. I don't think that these players will let themselves be the ones to ruin the streak, and they'll pull this one out over the Baby Terps, who start 3 freshmen at attack. 11-8 Hopkins
Albany at 11 UMBC- Albany has hit its stride after an 0-5 start, and has confidence coming into this game, but UMBC wont let them take the America East title on the Retreivers home field. 9-7 UMBC
12 Drexel at Towson- Drexel has been slipping since a 7-1 start. Will it continue in this CAA contest? I don't think so. The Dragons pull it out, 11-6.
14 Brown at Penn- Brown has had a nice season and has surprised many, but Franklin Field is always a tough place for Ivy opponents to win. Quakers in a close one, 10-9.
17 Princeton at Harvard- Harvard probably has more talent, especially on offense, but they have yet to put it together. 8-5 Tigers in typical Princeton style.
Delaware at 20 Hofstra- A very important CAA game for both teams. Hofstra is tough to beat at home, but hasn't been playing as well lately. Theyll still take this one to stay in the hunt for the CAA title. Flying Dutchmen 12-11
1 Duke at 3 Virginia- The two most explosive teams meet in a battle to decide the #1 seed in the ACC tourney and perhaps the NCAA tourney as well. Though Duke may be the more talented team, I will take UVA at home, 13-11
2 Syracuse at Rutgers- The Orange will have too much talent in this one, theyll win big, 16-5 Cuse
4 Georgetown at 19 Loyola- A must win game for the Hounds, who are still unbeaten in the ECAC. But with Scott Kocis expected to return for the Hoyas, expect Georgetown to win a close game, 10-8
Dartmouth at 5 Cornell- Cornell wins this one big, bouncing back from the big loss at Syracuse. 15-6 Big Red over Big Green
6 Navy at 13 Army- The best West Point team in a few years has a real chance to end a 13 game losing streak to their archrivals from Annapolis. My upset of the week, the Cadets win 7-6.
7 Maryland at 15 Johns Hopkins- A must win for Hopkins, who is in danger of missing the NCAA tournament for the first time ever. I don't think that these players will let themselves be the ones to ruin the streak, and they'll pull this one out over the Baby Terps, who start 3 freshmen at attack. 11-8 Hopkins
Albany at 11 UMBC- Albany has hit its stride after an 0-5 start, and has confidence coming into this game, but UMBC wont let them take the America East title on the Retreivers home field. 9-7 UMBC
12 Drexel at Towson- Drexel has been slipping since a 7-1 start. Will it continue in this CAA contest? I don't think so. The Dragons pull it out, 11-6.
14 Brown at Penn- Brown has had a nice season and has surprised many, but Franklin Field is always a tough place for Ivy opponents to win. Quakers in a close one, 10-9.
17 Princeton at Harvard- Harvard probably has more talent, especially on offense, but they have yet to put it together. 8-5 Tigers in typical Princeton style.
Delaware at 20 Hofstra- A very important CAA game for both teams. Hofstra is tough to beat at home, but hasn't been playing as well lately. Theyll still take this one to stay in the hunt for the CAA title. Flying Dutchmen 12-11
Monday, April 7, 2008
Explaining my poll methodology
I know I could get a lot of complaints, so I am just going to say that I considered tournament success as the biggest factor in my rankings by far. I also tried to take into account head to head results where tiebreaking was applicable. I feel that if a team reached the sweet 16, they have proven themselves worthy of a spot in the top 25. Villanova, for example, went through a lot of rough times this year but they are a talented team and pulled it together when it mattered most, reaching the second weekend. Tournament success moved a team way up in my book, while tournament failure could easily tarnish a regular season that may have warranted a higher ranking (see Duke and Georgetown, as well as unranked teams UConn and Clemson to name a few)
Chris
Chris
CJ's Final Top 25
Wow!!! What a game, and I accurately told you Memphis FT shooting would kill them, and it cost them a National Championship. With that, my final Top 25 Polls, these polls are a combination of regular season and postseason success:
1) Kansas (37-3) - National Champions
2) Memphis (38-2) - 1 FT...
3) UCLA (35-4)- Final Four then bust... i'll remember next yr... only to bash them again
4) Louisville (27-9)- Better team than UNC, just didn't bring their A game and was stuck in NC
5) Texas (31-7) - Loss in Houston still surprises me but they are very talented
6) UNC (36-3)- Very overrated, they leave the State of North Carolina and they get blown out, surprise... I think not
7) Davidson (29-7)- Probably still underrated on here... 1 shot from being a legit Final Four contender
8) Stanford (28-8)- Playing Texas in Houston was really unfair, but they did get lucky to get by Marquette
9) Wisconsin (31-5)- Big X champ, played with Davidson til Curry decided to become Superman
10) Tennessee (31-5)- Lofton really didn't play well this year at all
11) Butler (30-4)- Ran into Tennessee and took them into OT
12) Xavier (30-7)- OVERRATED OVERRATED, they had the easiest road to the Elite 8...anybody remember them being down at half to UGA???
13) Marquette (25-10)- got robbed in Anaheim vs. Stanford, really were starting to get hot too
14) Duke (28-6)- Live and Die by the 3...and they died
15) Western Kentucky (29-7)- Didn't win the Sun Belt, won on a prayer 3 vs Drake, but showed they belonged vs UCLA
16) West Virginia (26-11)- Got hot at the right time...never pick againist WVU as a 7 seed... ever
17) Michigan State (27-9)- Ultimate Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde team so they get put here cause I don't know where to put them
18) Washington State (26-9)- Underrated all season and made ND look like a foolish High School team
19) Gonzaga (25-8)- Ran into a hot Davidson team in Raleigh, if they had won that they would deserve to be a top 10 team
20) Oklahoma (23-12)- Injuries to Blake Griffin never allowed us to see the true potential of this team
21) Georgetown (28-6)- Did nothing in the regular season, did nothing in the NCAA's...this is quite frankly a gift
22) Pitt (27-10)- Struggled with injuries all year but unlike GT showed up in the NCAA's but too many regular season losses to put them above them
23) Notre Dame (25-8)- With a normal loss to WSU they'd be top 18 but they didn't lose a normal game
24) Drake (28-5)- One desperation 3 by WKU away from being the Cinderella in the Sweet 16
25) Purdue (25-9)- Tough luck in 2nd round game but will be co-Big X favorite
Also Recieving Consideration (in Order) : Arizona, Siena, Miami (FL), Ohio State, Villanova, UMass
-CJ
Comments/criticism to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
1) Kansas (37-3) - National Champions
2) Memphis (38-2) - 1 FT...
3) UCLA (35-4)- Final Four then bust... i'll remember next yr... only to bash them again
4) Louisville (27-9)- Better team than UNC, just didn't bring their A game and was stuck in NC
5) Texas (31-7) - Loss in Houston still surprises me but they are very talented
6) UNC (36-3)- Very overrated, they leave the State of North Carolina and they get blown out, surprise... I think not
7) Davidson (29-7)- Probably still underrated on here... 1 shot from being a legit Final Four contender
8) Stanford (28-8)- Playing Texas in Houston was really unfair, but they did get lucky to get by Marquette
9) Wisconsin (31-5)- Big X champ, played with Davidson til Curry decided to become Superman
10) Tennessee (31-5)- Lofton really didn't play well this year at all
11) Butler (30-4)- Ran into Tennessee and took them into OT
12) Xavier (30-7)- OVERRATED OVERRATED, they had the easiest road to the Elite 8...anybody remember them being down at half to UGA???
13) Marquette (25-10)- got robbed in Anaheim vs. Stanford, really were starting to get hot too
14) Duke (28-6)- Live and Die by the 3...and they died
15) Western Kentucky (29-7)- Didn't win the Sun Belt, won on a prayer 3 vs Drake, but showed they belonged vs UCLA
16) West Virginia (26-11)- Got hot at the right time...never pick againist WVU as a 7 seed... ever
17) Michigan State (27-9)- Ultimate Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde team so they get put here cause I don't know where to put them
18) Washington State (26-9)- Underrated all season and made ND look like a foolish High School team
19) Gonzaga (25-8)- Ran into a hot Davidson team in Raleigh, if they had won that they would deserve to be a top 10 team
20) Oklahoma (23-12)- Injuries to Blake Griffin never allowed us to see the true potential of this team
21) Georgetown (28-6)- Did nothing in the regular season, did nothing in the NCAA's...this is quite frankly a gift
22) Pitt (27-10)- Struggled with injuries all year but unlike GT showed up in the NCAA's but too many regular season losses to put them above them
23) Notre Dame (25-8)- With a normal loss to WSU they'd be top 18 but they didn't lose a normal game
24) Drake (28-5)- One desperation 3 by WKU away from being the Cinderella in the Sweet 16
25) Purdue (25-9)- Tough luck in 2nd round game but will be co-Big X favorite
Also Recieving Consideration (in Order) : Arizona, Siena, Miami (FL), Ohio State, Villanova, UMass
-CJ
Comments/criticism to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Chris' Post-tourney top 25
1. Kansas (37-3)- National Champions
2. Memphis (38-2)- National Runners-up
3. North Carolina (36-3)- My pre-tournament pick to win, ran out of gym early vs Kansas
4. UCLA (35-4)- Took advantage of the weakest regional, but was a top 5 team all season
5. Louisville (27-9)- Became a different team once Padgett was healthy
6. Texas (31-7)- DJ Augustin did not play up to potential in the tourney
7. Xavier (30-7)- Validated themselves and the A-10 by reaching Elite Eight
8. Davidson (29-7)- I had them in the top 20 pre tournament, and I was underrating them
9. Stanford (28-8)- Reached as far as they should have, then lost. Good enough for this spot
10. Tennessee (31-5)- Overrated all season, sweet 16 exit was just right for them
11. Wisconsin (31-5)- Overachieved all year, but I dont believe loss to Davidson was an upset
12. West Virginia (26-11)- Improved by leaps and bounds towards the end of the season
13. Washington State (26-9)- Still underappreciated, but they were unable to give UNC a game
14. Georgetown (28-6)- Disappointing season for the Hoyas
15. Duke (28-6)- This is where I thought Duke belonged all year
16. Michigan State (27-9)- Not impressive all season, but nevertheless in the sweet 16
17. Butler (30-4)- Proved they belong in this group with their impressive showing vs Tennessee
18. Marquette (25-10)- Brook Lopez miracle shot away from the sweet 16
19. Western Kentucky (29-7)- Sweet 16 appearance including thrilling win over Drake
20. Purdue (25-9)- Baby Boilers will be Big Ten favorites next season
21. Pittsburgh (27-10)- Disappointing second round loss snaps sweet 16 streak
22. Drake (28-5)- One ridiculous shot should not ruin the entire season for the Bulldogs
23. Miami (23-11)- Took Texas down to the wire after great comeback
24. Villanova (22-13)- Made the Sweet 16, and that should get you ranked
25. Notre Dame (25-8)- Maybe a bit of bias here. Ugly loss to WSU
Coming Soon: Pre-Preseason conference previews and top 25
-Chris
ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
2. Memphis (38-2)- National Runners-up
3. North Carolina (36-3)- My pre-tournament pick to win, ran out of gym early vs Kansas
4. UCLA (35-4)- Took advantage of the weakest regional, but was a top 5 team all season
5. Louisville (27-9)- Became a different team once Padgett was healthy
6. Texas (31-7)- DJ Augustin did not play up to potential in the tourney
7. Xavier (30-7)- Validated themselves and the A-10 by reaching Elite Eight
8. Davidson (29-7)- I had them in the top 20 pre tournament, and I was underrating them
9. Stanford (28-8)- Reached as far as they should have, then lost. Good enough for this spot
10. Tennessee (31-5)- Overrated all season, sweet 16 exit was just right for them
11. Wisconsin (31-5)- Overachieved all year, but I dont believe loss to Davidson was an upset
12. West Virginia (26-11)- Improved by leaps and bounds towards the end of the season
13. Washington State (26-9)- Still underappreciated, but they were unable to give UNC a game
14. Georgetown (28-6)- Disappointing season for the Hoyas
15. Duke (28-6)- This is where I thought Duke belonged all year
16. Michigan State (27-9)- Not impressive all season, but nevertheless in the sweet 16
17. Butler (30-4)- Proved they belong in this group with their impressive showing vs Tennessee
18. Marquette (25-10)- Brook Lopez miracle shot away from the sweet 16
19. Western Kentucky (29-7)- Sweet 16 appearance including thrilling win over Drake
20. Purdue (25-9)- Baby Boilers will be Big Ten favorites next season
21. Pittsburgh (27-10)- Disappointing second round loss snaps sweet 16 streak
22. Drake (28-5)- One ridiculous shot should not ruin the entire season for the Bulldogs
23. Miami (23-11)- Took Texas down to the wire after great comeback
24. Villanova (22-13)- Made the Sweet 16, and that should get you ranked
25. Notre Dame (25-8)- Maybe a bit of bias here. Ugly loss to WSU
Coming Soon: Pre-Preseason conference previews and top 25
-Chris
ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
NHL First Round Predictions
Eastern Conference:
Montreal (1) over Boston (8) in 5 games- Look at the season series and you'll see I'm being a homer by giving the Bruins one win. Although, I'll say Bergeron coming back for the playoffs is eerily similar to a playoff series a few years ago when the roles were reversed and Koivu came back from a concussion in the playoffs...and he led his team to a series win
Pittsburgh (2) over Ottawa(7) in 6 games- I know Ottawa has been struggling down the stretch, but there are 2 factors that will make this a series (1) Its playoff hockey and (2) Its playoff hockey in Canada. However, Pittsburgh will have too much firepower for Ottawa to match.
Washington (3) over Philadelphia (6) in 5 games- If there is a team of destiny, its the Capitals. Left for playoff dead a few weeks ago, the Capitals have been RED RED hot and should continue against an over-achieving team. The only way the Capitals lose this series is if Huet gets ultra-cold really fast
Devils (4) over Rangers (5) in 7 games- Never pick against Brodeur in a playoff series, and I think that will hold true in this matchup between extremely even teams. Look for the Rangers to steal one in New Jersey but the Devils will steal one in Game 6 and clinch it at home in Game 7.
Western Conference:
Detroit (1) over Nashville (8) in 4 games- Superior talent, goaltending, and coaching lead to the essential first round bye for the Wings.
San Jose Sharks (2) over Calgary (7) in 5 games- SJ trading Toskala in the offseason proved to be the best move of the year as it gave Nabokov confidence in his starting job and he proved it to be a great decision. Now with a near record year in Wins, can he stay hot during the playoffs? I say yes for round 1.
Analysis of the following series to come:
Colorado over Wild
Ducks over Stars
Montreal (1) over Boston (8) in 5 games- Look at the season series and you'll see I'm being a homer by giving the Bruins one win. Although, I'll say Bergeron coming back for the playoffs is eerily similar to a playoff series a few years ago when the roles were reversed and Koivu came back from a concussion in the playoffs...and he led his team to a series win
Pittsburgh (2) over Ottawa(7) in 6 games- I know Ottawa has been struggling down the stretch, but there are 2 factors that will make this a series (1) Its playoff hockey and (2) Its playoff hockey in Canada. However, Pittsburgh will have too much firepower for Ottawa to match.
Washington (3) over Philadelphia (6) in 5 games- If there is a team of destiny, its the Capitals. Left for playoff dead a few weeks ago, the Capitals have been RED RED hot and should continue against an over-achieving team. The only way the Capitals lose this series is if Huet gets ultra-cold really fast
Devils (4) over Rangers (5) in 7 games- Never pick against Brodeur in a playoff series, and I think that will hold true in this matchup between extremely even teams. Look for the Rangers to steal one in New Jersey but the Devils will steal one in Game 6 and clinch it at home in Game 7.
Western Conference:
Detroit (1) over Nashville (8) in 4 games- Superior talent, goaltending, and coaching lead to the essential first round bye for the Wings.
San Jose Sharks (2) over Calgary (7) in 5 games- SJ trading Toskala in the offseason proved to be the best move of the year as it gave Nabokov confidence in his starting job and he proved it to be a great decision. Now with a near record year in Wins, can he stay hot during the playoffs? I say yes for round 1.
Analysis of the following series to come:
Colorado over Wild
Ducks over Stars
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Title Game Prediction
So if you want to see my analysis for the phantom 3rd place game see my Final Four post...but since those were a total disaster this will be the last time I mention them. The only thing I said right was that the game would be semi-close if Kansas played like its dominant self. Memphis defying logic and maybe basic life principles is now shooting the free throws better than most NBA teams.
My friend and esteemed colleague has made some very valid points as to why Memphis will win the game however he's absolutely wrong its time for the ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK to bring home the National Title.
Chris got it exactly right as to how Memphis will lose this game: the 3-pt line. Kansas has the athleticism to stay with Memphis and also the height that will allow them to play a very tight 2-3 zone and still get out to contest shots. The reason that UCLA couldn't do this is that they didn't have the height that the Kansas Jayhawks do. Memphis doesn't start a guard shorter than 6 feet and for the shorter Darren Collision this was a big problem. Kansas however doesn't have this problem as its starting guards are Brandon Rush (6'6") and Mario Chalmers (6'1"). Both are tall enough to prevent easy shots for Memphis. By keeping a tight zone, they can prevent Memphis from driving and kicking with Derrick Rose and as a result have to settle for mid-range shots or 3 pt shots, neither of which is a strength. Kansas also has the ability to put up points in a hurry, as we saw on Saturday Night. The inside game of Sasha Khan and Darell Arthur will be important as getting CDR into foul trouble will be an early key for Kansas. I just don't think that Memphis has seen a team that has the athleticism to play 40 minutes of intense defense and have the offensive firepower as Kansas. Look for Brandon Rush to dominate late as Memphis will in fact... I almost guarantee... will shoot like Memphis shoots FT's allowing Kansas to escape with a shootout win.
Kansas: 84
Memphis: 79
-CJ
Send comments/criticism to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Additionally Coming Soon:
-NHL 1st Round Predictions
-NBA 1st Round Predictions
My friend and esteemed colleague has made some very valid points as to why Memphis will win the game however he's absolutely wrong its time for the ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK to bring home the National Title.
Chris got it exactly right as to how Memphis will lose this game: the 3-pt line. Kansas has the athleticism to stay with Memphis and also the height that will allow them to play a very tight 2-3 zone and still get out to contest shots. The reason that UCLA couldn't do this is that they didn't have the height that the Kansas Jayhawks do. Memphis doesn't start a guard shorter than 6 feet and for the shorter Darren Collision this was a big problem. Kansas however doesn't have this problem as its starting guards are Brandon Rush (6'6") and Mario Chalmers (6'1"). Both are tall enough to prevent easy shots for Memphis. By keeping a tight zone, they can prevent Memphis from driving and kicking with Derrick Rose and as a result have to settle for mid-range shots or 3 pt shots, neither of which is a strength. Kansas also has the ability to put up points in a hurry, as we saw on Saturday Night. The inside game of Sasha Khan and Darell Arthur will be important as getting CDR into foul trouble will be an early key for Kansas. I just don't think that Memphis has seen a team that has the athleticism to play 40 minutes of intense defense and have the offensive firepower as Kansas. Look for Brandon Rush to dominate late as Memphis will in fact... I almost guarantee... will shoot like Memphis shoots FT's allowing Kansas to escape with a shootout win.
Kansas: 84
Memphis: 79
-CJ
Send comments/criticism to ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Additionally Coming Soon:
-NHL 1st Round Predictions
-NBA 1st Round Predictions
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Final Four didn't go so well, lets see if I can do better
Well tonight was pretty much a disaster for my picks. Memphis once again made foul shots with remarakble accuracy, defying the odds for a second straight game. They pretty much ran UCLA out of the building, not allowing the perceived inside advantage to affect the game at all. Kevin Love spent most of the game trying to catch his breath and was never effective. As for UNC, they were just shellshocked for the first 15 minutes and then did not have enough energy to recover in the second half when they staged a comeback. I have a feeling that that game may cause Hansbrough, Lawson, and Ellington to all return next year. Now on to Monday.
Memphis has finally made a believer out of me, and I feel like Derrick Rose gives them a huge advantage on the perimeter in this one. Kansas has a good backcourt, but after Rose thoroughly outplayed who I thought was the best PG in the nation this year, Darren Collison, don't expect this matchup to bother him. Memphis also has so much depth and strength on the front line, and their foul shooting woes haven't been an issue so they have appeared nearly unbeatable. The only thing that Memphis that would give them a good chance of losing this game is settling for too many threes, because this would be giving Kansas a free pass on defending all of the inside options Memphis has. As we saw in the Tennessee game, most likely the outside shots for Memphis won't fall for the entire game, so it will be Rose penetrating and dishing to Dozier and Taggart which will really be the biggest weapon for Memphis. Of course they also have Chris Douglas-Roberts, who seems to get the better of a matchup with Brandon Rush at the "swingman" spot. Memphis won't have a problem getting those transition points on a Kansas team that likes to run almost as much as they do. If the teams execute well on offense and stay in control, this could be a very high scoring game. I like Memphis, as strange as it sounds, to cut down the nets on Monday night, despite the fact that they were the only 1 seed that I didn't have in the final four.
Memphis 81 Kansas 75
Coming soon: Final top 25, pre-preseason top 25 and BCS conference previews
-Chris
ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Memphis has finally made a believer out of me, and I feel like Derrick Rose gives them a huge advantage on the perimeter in this one. Kansas has a good backcourt, but after Rose thoroughly outplayed who I thought was the best PG in the nation this year, Darren Collison, don't expect this matchup to bother him. Memphis also has so much depth and strength on the front line, and their foul shooting woes haven't been an issue so they have appeared nearly unbeatable. The only thing that Memphis that would give them a good chance of losing this game is settling for too many threes, because this would be giving Kansas a free pass on defending all of the inside options Memphis has. As we saw in the Tennessee game, most likely the outside shots for Memphis won't fall for the entire game, so it will be Rose penetrating and dishing to Dozier and Taggart which will really be the biggest weapon for Memphis. Of course they also have Chris Douglas-Roberts, who seems to get the better of a matchup with Brandon Rush at the "swingman" spot. Memphis won't have a problem getting those transition points on a Kansas team that likes to run almost as much as they do. If the teams execute well on offense and stay in control, this could be a very high scoring game. I like Memphis, as strange as it sounds, to cut down the nets on Monday night, despite the fact that they were the only 1 seed that I didn't have in the final four.
Memphis 81 Kansas 75
Coming soon: Final top 25, pre-preseason top 25 and BCS conference previews
-Chris
ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Who should Marquette hire to replace Crean?
UNLV's Lon Kruger, Vanderbilt's Kevin Stallings, Xavier's Sean Miller, Butler's Brad Stevens and Wright State's Brad Brownell, and Washington State's Tony Bennett are all the major candidates for the Marquette job but I'm going to tell you who should be the next coach at Marquette.
Tom Crean was a passionate young coach whose attitude helped defined that team, bring in someone with a more lowkey attitude like an Al Skinner and that team would crumble, you need to bring someone in with that mojo. The answer therefore is Butler's Brad Stevens, who in his 1st year as Butler head coach led Butler to 30 wins and a NCAA tourney domination over South Alabama basically playing a home game, and taking Tennessee to OT. Stevens is very young, can recruit the Indiana and Midwest region. His ability to understand the current college player can't be underrated and clearly can be a great in game coach. He'll bring the passion that Crean did to Marquette only I think Stevens can do it better than Crean did.
-CJ
Comments or Criticism, send them my way at ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Tom Crean was a passionate young coach whose attitude helped defined that team, bring in someone with a more lowkey attitude like an Al Skinner and that team would crumble, you need to bring someone in with that mojo. The answer therefore is Butler's Brad Stevens, who in his 1st year as Butler head coach led Butler to 30 wins and a NCAA tourney domination over South Alabama basically playing a home game, and taking Tennessee to OT. Stevens is very young, can recruit the Indiana and Midwest region. His ability to understand the current college player can't be underrated and clearly can be a great in game coach. He'll bring the passion that Crean did to Marquette only I think Stevens can do it better than Crean did.
-CJ
Comments or Criticism, send them my way at ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Tom Crean to IU
This was probably the best possible hire that IU could have hoped for, especially given the circumstances surrounding the program right now. Crean has never violated NCAA rules, he knows the Big Ten and the midwest in general (got Dominic James out of Indy to Marquette), and he knows how to handle a school that really cares about basketball (Marquette doesn't have a football team, so it's all about hoops, all the time). Indiana will be bad next year. In fact, they will be terrible. They are a long shot to go .500 overall and will struggle to compete in the Big Ten, as Jordan Crawford will be their leading scorer coming back at under 10 ppg, assuming Eric Gordon leaves for the draft, as he should considering IU's situation and his stock, which is too high but nevertheless he should take advantage of it. The future of the IU program Tom Crean, however, looks very bright. If I was a Hoosier fan, I would be celebrating today. In fact, I am celebrating because Crean has now left the Big East and I won't have to see my team play against his anymore.
Chris
(ccsportsblog@yahoo.com, cmkmets13 AIM)
Chris
(ccsportsblog@yahoo.com, cmkmets13 AIM)
Baseball Preseason Predictions
Its time for the flowers to come out which means its baseball season, I'll come back later with a more detailed preview for every team but for now I'm going to give you the playoff teams, and a sleeper team that might take a wild card or division you aren't thinking about, and then I'll rate the divisions based on the top talent and balance.
Due to multiple complaints about my sleeper team procedure I've decided that it has to be a team 5th or lower in the 6 team division...therefore the bold illustrates these modifications
AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: Indians
AL West: Mariners
Wild Card: Tigers
Sleeper: Royals
NL East: Braves
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Diamondbacks
Wild Card: Rockies
Sleeper: Reds
Playoffs:
Red Sox over Indians
Mariners over Tigers
Diamondbacks over Cubs
Braves over Rockies
Red Sox over Mariners
Diamondbacks over Braves
Sox over Diamondbacks in 5 (if it was to go longer, advantage Diamondbacks)
-CJ
ccsportsblog@yahoo.com with comments/constructive criticism
Due to multiple complaints about my sleeper team procedure I've decided that it has to be a team 5th or lower in the 6 team division...therefore the bold illustrates these modifications
AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: Indians
AL West: Mariners
Wild Card: Tigers
Sleeper: Royals
NL East: Braves
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Diamondbacks
Wild Card: Rockies
Sleeper: Reds
Playoffs:
Red Sox over Indians
Mariners over Tigers
Diamondbacks over Cubs
Braves over Rockies
Red Sox over Mariners
Diamondbacks over Braves
Sox over Diamondbacks in 5 (if it was to go longer, advantage Diamondbacks)
-CJ
ccsportsblog@yahoo.com with comments/constructive criticism
CJ's Final Four Thoughts
Heading into the final weekend of the greatest month of the sport year. I'm going to take a line to just say how amazing Stephen Curry is. He quite literally carried an entire program on his back, and just to think how his Davidson team was in the game til the very end. But it wasn't only during the tournament, in fact Stephen Curry's Davidson team played 3 of the 4 Final Four teams and only lost by a combined total of 18 pts. ( One of which was a 12 pt loss to UCLA in a game they at one point had a 17 pt lead) This team is no tourney fluke and is in fact a Top 10 team in the country.
Now this Final Four is very interesting and different as its the first time that all four 1 Seeds made the Final Four. As a result, the talent level is all even and its going to come down to the intangibles, such as hustle, FT shooting, coaching, and senior leadership. Taking all of these into effect I've made my Final Four Predictions.
North Carolina over Kansas- This game would have been a much closer game earlier in the season when Kansas was playing dominant basketball, but that distinction clearly belongs to the Tar Heels. While it will be interesting to see the Heels finally play on a neutral site in this tournament, Tyler Hansbrough has been too dominant and Ellington is due for a huge, huge game. Roy Williams is better coach, and the Oklahoma State distraction is the tip of the iceburg for this Kansas team.
UCLA over Memphis- This game is quite interesting as this is a clash between 2 different styles as UCLA would love this game to be in the 50's and the Tigers would love this to be in the 70-80's. Every year I've picked against UCLA to lose in the early rounds for reason X or reason Y, but you can't argue against 3 consecutive Final Four's and Darren Collision will make sure that he finally gets to a title game, and Kevin Love could be playing his final game or 2 so he'll be sure to step up. Averages are due to even out so since Memphis shot 85% they are due to shoot about 20% this game. Granted it won't be that low but UCLA just has the it factor...
North Carolina over UCLA- ...but the it factor can only get you so far. Collison will explode in this game but North Carolina is just too talented offensively for UCLA to keep up with in this game. Watch for Ty Lawson to try and play on Collision's emotions and get him into early foul trouble. Same goes for Hansbrough on Love. This game could be decided by who can stay on the floor between Hansbrough/Lawson vs Collison/Love. Also if this game comes down to coaching in the last 2 minutes, Roy Williams has a huge advantage with his National Title over Ben Howland who just can't seem to get over the hump.
Scores:
North Carolina: 77
Kansas: 68
UCLA: 64
Memphis: 60
North Carolina: 75
UCLA: 64
-CJ
Comments or Want to Argue/Laugh at my opinions: Email me @ ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Now this Final Four is very interesting and different as its the first time that all four 1 Seeds made the Final Four. As a result, the talent level is all even and its going to come down to the intangibles, such as hustle, FT shooting, coaching, and senior leadership. Taking all of these into effect I've made my Final Four Predictions.
North Carolina over Kansas- This game would have been a much closer game earlier in the season when Kansas was playing dominant basketball, but that distinction clearly belongs to the Tar Heels. While it will be interesting to see the Heels finally play on a neutral site in this tournament, Tyler Hansbrough has been too dominant and Ellington is due for a huge, huge game. Roy Williams is better coach, and the Oklahoma State distraction is the tip of the iceburg for this Kansas team.
UCLA over Memphis- This game is quite interesting as this is a clash between 2 different styles as UCLA would love this game to be in the 50's and the Tigers would love this to be in the 70-80's. Every year I've picked against UCLA to lose in the early rounds for reason X or reason Y, but you can't argue against 3 consecutive Final Four's and Darren Collision will make sure that he finally gets to a title game, and Kevin Love could be playing his final game or 2 so he'll be sure to step up. Averages are due to even out so since Memphis shot 85% they are due to shoot about 20% this game. Granted it won't be that low but UCLA just has the it factor...
North Carolina over UCLA- ...but the it factor can only get you so far. Collison will explode in this game but North Carolina is just too talented offensively for UCLA to keep up with in this game. Watch for Ty Lawson to try and play on Collision's emotions and get him into early foul trouble. Same goes for Hansbrough on Love. This game could be decided by who can stay on the floor between Hansbrough/Lawson vs Collison/Love. Also if this game comes down to coaching in the last 2 minutes, Roy Williams has a huge advantage with his National Title over Ben Howland who just can't seem to get over the hump.
Scores:
North Carolina: 77
Kansas: 68
UCLA: 64
Memphis: 60
North Carolina: 75
UCLA: 64
-CJ
Comments or Want to Argue/Laugh at my opinions: Email me @ ccsportsblog@yahoo.com
Final Four thoughts
Well, I guess I started this a bit late as far as the NCAA tournament is concerned but I will give my thoughts on the Final Four.
North Carolina vs. Kansas
As someone who had the Tar Heels as the top team all season long and picked them to win the tournament, this was definitely the game that scared me the most on their road to San Antonio. Kansas is perhaps the only team that will not attempt to slow the game down against UNC and has the talent to go along with it, allowing them to successfully run with the Heels for 40 minutes. The Jayhawks are athletic and long, a good defensive combination, and Chalmers and Robinson have perhaps the best chance of anyone left of containing Ty Lawson. Wayne Ellington could be in for a tough matchup with Brandon Rush who could be a key factor in contesting Ellington's jumpshots. Where Kansas will lose the game however is on the inside. Though Darrell Arthur and Darnell Jackson are good players, they did not give KU that much of an advantage on the inside against the undersized Davidson frontcourt, and that doesn't figure to get any better against Tyler Hansbrough (who should be national player of the yaer) and the rest of the UNC frontline including Deon Thompson and Alex Stepheson. The Tar Heels are the best rebounding team in the nation and that will certainly be what moves them into the championship game. Look for Lawson and Ellington to be somewhat neutralized on the scoring end (Lawson will get his assists), but Hansbrough will have a big game and lead UNC to the win.
North Carolina 88 Kansas 81
UCLA vs Memphis
I really did not think that Memphis would be here, but somehow they shot over 85% from the foul line and beat Texas on Sunday. They also proved to me that they are better than I thought overall. However that does not mean that they will beat UCLA on Saturday. I just don't think that there is one spot on the floor that Memphis has a real distinct advantage. Some might say that they do at the point or at the 2-guard spot, but Collison and Westbrook have proven to be a top backcourt, and if I were starting a college team with a point guard I would take Collison over anyone, including Rose. Though Rose is very impressive, the experience that Collison has having been to 2 Final Fours previously cannot be understated. Collison is also a much better shooter than Rose, as he shoots 52% from three point range, a great asset for a PG. UCLA also has enough depth on the inside to easily offset Joey Dorsey, Robert Dozier and the rest of the Memphis frontcourt. I could see Dorsey getting into early foul trouble and Kevin Love just dominating the game on the inside. Love can also force Dorsey, Dozier, Taggert and whoever else is on him outside with his three point range. Then of course if the game comes down to foul shooting, UCLA has a definite edge, shooting 73.5% from the line to Memphis' atrocious 60.7%. Collison will have the ball in his hands at the end of the game and he is nearly automatic at 87.4%.
UCLA 74 Memphis 69
Chris
North Carolina vs. Kansas
As someone who had the Tar Heels as the top team all season long and picked them to win the tournament, this was definitely the game that scared me the most on their road to San Antonio. Kansas is perhaps the only team that will not attempt to slow the game down against UNC and has the talent to go along with it, allowing them to successfully run with the Heels for 40 minutes. The Jayhawks are athletic and long, a good defensive combination, and Chalmers and Robinson have perhaps the best chance of anyone left of containing Ty Lawson. Wayne Ellington could be in for a tough matchup with Brandon Rush who could be a key factor in contesting Ellington's jumpshots. Where Kansas will lose the game however is on the inside. Though Darrell Arthur and Darnell Jackson are good players, they did not give KU that much of an advantage on the inside against the undersized Davidson frontcourt, and that doesn't figure to get any better against Tyler Hansbrough (who should be national player of the yaer) and the rest of the UNC frontline including Deon Thompson and Alex Stepheson. The Tar Heels are the best rebounding team in the nation and that will certainly be what moves them into the championship game. Look for Lawson and Ellington to be somewhat neutralized on the scoring end (Lawson will get his assists), but Hansbrough will have a big game and lead UNC to the win.
North Carolina 88 Kansas 81
UCLA vs Memphis
I really did not think that Memphis would be here, but somehow they shot over 85% from the foul line and beat Texas on Sunday. They also proved to me that they are better than I thought overall. However that does not mean that they will beat UCLA on Saturday. I just don't think that there is one spot on the floor that Memphis has a real distinct advantage. Some might say that they do at the point or at the 2-guard spot, but Collison and Westbrook have proven to be a top backcourt, and if I were starting a college team with a point guard I would take Collison over anyone, including Rose. Though Rose is very impressive, the experience that Collison has having been to 2 Final Fours previously cannot be understated. Collison is also a much better shooter than Rose, as he shoots 52% from three point range, a great asset for a PG. UCLA also has enough depth on the inside to easily offset Joey Dorsey, Robert Dozier and the rest of the Memphis frontcourt. I could see Dorsey getting into early foul trouble and Kevin Love just dominating the game on the inside. Love can also force Dorsey, Dozier, Taggert and whoever else is on him outside with his three point range. Then of course if the game comes down to foul shooting, UCLA has a definite edge, shooting 73.5% from the line to Memphis' atrocious 60.7%. Collison will have the ball in his hands at the end of the game and he is nearly automatic at 87.4%.
UCLA 74 Memphis 69
Chris
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