Bleacher Report - Articles by Gabe Simonds

NL Cy Young: Statistics Aren't Facts; They're Opinionated

Gabe Simonds — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:20:11 -0500

I lied in the headline. Statistics are in fact, well, a fact. But my point is that the way people use stats are opinionated. I'll use the hotly debated Cy Young award as an example.

Here's a statement that is false: "Stats are stats. Lincecum's stats are just better. It's a fact."

Why is that false? Well, the three pitchers are three different types of players. Lincecum is dominant, Wainwright is a workhorse and Carpenter is just efficient.

Certain stats support all of this. Saber metrics favor Lincecum, E.R.A. Carpenter, and Wins/IP Wainwright. Personally I'm not a fan of saber metrics. When saber metrics get you to vote Javier Vazquez over Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter, something is wrong.

Since I'm going down that road, I'll use Keith Law as an example. To support his claim, he used THREE stats to support why Javier Vazquez was better: FIP, WAR, and VORP. That's his opinion. In his opinion, those are the three most important stats. Just because Vazquez led does not make him the better pitcher. It's not a fact.

They should define how to select Cy Young winners. Does it mean most dominant, most efficient, or greatest impact? I think the 2009 race showed the answer to be most dominant.

People will endlessly argue that Lincecum also had the greatest impact on his team. But I find 15 wins, bad offense or good, to disprove that statement.

So next time you want to say, "Stats are stats. And (insert name) is just plain better. It's a fact," don't say it.

There is a couple of exceptions. Albert Pujols in MLB, Tom Brady in NFL, Alex Ovechkin in NHL and (used to be) Shaquille O'Neal in NBA. But those are rare and notably all sure-fire Hall of Famers (except Ovechkin right now).

Unless a player thoroughly outplays the rest of the field in almost every statistic (some would argue Lincecum did), it's not fact. The person is just basing it on his favorite stat.

Who's Hot and Who's Not for Jun. 21

Gabe Simonds — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:36:00 -0400

Who's Hot

Brad Thompson—He is trying to keep his job when Kyle Lohse comes back, and he's doing a good job. He has picked up two wins in two starts while maintaining a 2.77 E.R.A.

Unfortunately, in the last two starts, he had three unearned runs and four walks.

Skip Schumacher—In 24 at-bats, Schumacher has batting .458 with two doubles, two RBI, eight runs scored, and four walks.

He also has only struck out once.

Albert Pujols—Pujols not only hit four homers and drove in 11 RBI, but he also managed a .444 average.

With the walks added in, he had a .565 OBP as well.

Honorable Mention—Wainwright managed two wins despite a 4.15 E.R.A., Carpenter had one great start and one mediocre one plus a 1-1 record, and Molina batted .440 with a homer.

Who's Not

Joel Pineiro—In two starts, he pitched decent with a 2.65 E.R.A. that does not include three unearned runs. One error caused him to lose control and, since there were two outs, all were unearned after the first run.

But, his trip here was caused by four straight losses.

Joe Thurston—After bringing Brian Barden down, Thurston went cold with a .118 average and three strikeouts in 17 at-bats. On the bright side, he scored two runs and hit a double.

Tyler Greene—He only got 13 at-bats in the middle of Khalil Greene getting brought up, but he did poorly.

He did get a double and two RBI, but managed just three hits.

Honorable Mention—Ryan Ludwig batted .235, but hit a grand slam

Call-ups

Early in the week, Josh Kinney got promoted to the big leagues. He started here, but in just 2.2 IP allowed four earned runs good for a 13.50 E.R.A. He has lowered it to 9.82 with a scoreless inning Thursday.

P.J. Walters was optioned back down to Memphis.

Khalil Greene was activated from the 15 day DL on Thursday. He had an anxiety disorder and was batting under .200 with just two homers. He has since hit three homers and drove in five, half of what he hit in a full month and more.

Nick Stavinoha was optioned to Memphis.

Minor League Report

Stock is Rising

Jess Todd—He pitched three scoreless innings, picking up a save in the process. He also struck out two while walking none.

More to the point, he is currently on a 10 IP scoreless streak.

Pete Parise—The left-handed specialist has pitched six scoreless innings, including 2.1 IP last week with four strikeouts and no hits or walks allowed.

Brett Wallace—He went .348, hitting a homer and two doubles.

He finally has broke out from his never-ending slump.

Stock is Falling

Mitchell Boggs—Not only did his main chance at big leagues (Thompson failing) not work out, but he had a 8.00 E.RA. in just nine IP in the last two weeks.

He also picked up two more losses.

Clayton Mortenson—He pitched 9.1 IP in two starts, allowing eleven earned runs, good for a 10.88 E.R.A.

He also walked a whopping EIGHT batters.

Brian Barden—He batted .150 in 20 at-bats and literally has contributed nothing but singles to the club. He has no doubles, triples, homers, RBI, Rs, or BBs.

He struck out twice as well.

St. Louis Cardinals: Who's Hot, Who's Not

Gabe Simonds — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 23:38:00 -0400

Who's Hot

*New rules: SP must have pitched good (QS) in back-to-back starts, minimum 10 ABs

SS Brendan Ryan- This was a close one for me. He only managed one RBI, one steal, and struck out a whopping five times in seven games. What? That's not much right. Well he went 7-19 (.368) with one extra base hit. Average alone got him in this list.

CF Colby Rasmus- This was extremely easy decision. Almost too easy. In fact, he would be on this list if it was the majors Who's Hot/Who's Not. 9-18 with one homer, five doubles, one RBI, and five runs scored.

SP Chris Carpenter- I really hope this is like a weekly thing. Putting together his last two starts you come up with these numbers: 15 IP, 9 hits allowed, one walk, eight K's, three earned runs (1.80), two quality starts and a complete game. Hey All-Star game? Does 4-0 with 0.71 E.R.A. qualify?

Honorable Mention- Joe Thurston 7-20 (.300), but has went 0-10 recently, Albert Pujols cranked two homers with 9 RBI but had a modest .291 average

Who's Not

*New rules: Must have bad back-t0-back starts; for a RP must have multiple appearances with earned runs, 10 AB limit

SP Todd Wellemeyer- I'm not gonna lie, I haven't even looked at the stats yet. Now I will and here they are: 12 IP, eleven hits, five walks, 10 K's, 9 earned runs. Well, I'll give him one thing: he gets his strikeouts and innings even when pitching awful.

With a 5.52 E.R.A., its starting to get to the point where we should seriously consider bringing up Mitchell Boggs, who won't give us many innings, but we are 4-0 in his starts. Wellemeyer's starts: 6-6

SP Joel Pineiro- Is it really an surprise that when multiple SPs get on this list, the Cards are losing. Pineiro's stats: 9 IP, 16 hits, 2 walks, 7 earned runs. This wouldn't look as bad if this wasn't two combined starts. 7 earned runs is bad enough, but when you failed to go six, its worse.

C Yadier Molina- 2-16 with two walks, one homer, one RBI, three runs scored. How the heck is he getting walked at all? By the way that is a .125 average and his season average is now .259.

Honorable Mention- Adam Wainwright allowed seven earned runs and lost twice in two starts but he pitched 13 innings. Rick Ankiel batted .192 but he was only hitless in two games and I felt Yadi was worse (stats support that) and emphasized the bad pitching.

Ryan Ludwick, but I felt it would be harsh cause he's coming back from an injury and has a three game hitting streak.

As a side note, you will be hard pressed to find Tyler Greene on the Who's Not (second favorite Cardinal) and Chris Duncan on the Who's Hot (I hate him). I would say Khalil Greene on WN, but I don't believe he will ever get there in the first place.

Call-ups

A lot of action here. I decided to add this in case you didn't know who was up and who they are.

Jess Todd- Well, was he our dummy boy our something. He took one for the team and he isn't even on the team anymore. In an 11-4 loss Friday, he pitched 1 2/3 IP, allowed 2 earned runs (10.80), and struck out and walked two apiece. He was sent back down the next day.

For the record AAA stats: 3-1, 2.96 E.R.A., 11 saves, 32 K's in 24.1 IP. Blaine Boyer was demoted to AAA even though he has no options. Suprise? Nobody claimed him.

Blake Hawksworth- Well, good move Cards. He pitched even worse in a 10-1 loss to finish the game. He went two IP, allowed 4 earned runs on three hits and a walk. To be fair to him, he had one hitless, scoreless inning in the eighth. He went up, and Todd went down. Expect a demotion this week. I'm half-kidding, but who knows.

Tyler Greene- Finally, logic took over. The best shortstop on the team and the best all-around player not named Albert Pujols. Sorry to Ludwig (glove), Ankiel (K's), Schumacher (power)....well you get the picture.

Comment on someone who you think does. Glaus doesn't count either. He's got slightly worse defense than Brendan Ryan with more average and power. Plus he's got speed. Kyle Lohse was placed on the DL to allow this to happen.

Minor League Report

I will add AA to the picture now, but that is it. I won't include him AA in Stock is Rising/Falling however. So if you see an unrecognized name, I will point out his name and age (cause normally younger than 25 and he's a prospect).

While we're here, I just have to ask why we have a 30 year old RP in AAA. Is it because he's from Japan? We also have two lefties down there who are 28 and 29. But both have pitched in majors before.

Stock is Rising

Mitchell Boggs- How convenient that I just happen to mention above to bring him up. Well his last two starts are gems: 13 IP, 16 hits (yikes), 2 earned runs, 12 K's (10 in one game alone) and two wins.

Ok, I didn't watch these games but at first glance, it seems in the first game, he didn't have his stuff and came away with 6 IP, 1 earned run and nine hits and two strikeouts. Second game was much better with 7 IP, five hits, and 10 K's. So the hits look much worse than they are.

Jarrett Hoffpauier- 11-27 (.407), two doubles, seven RBI, and five runs scored. If Schumacher leaves, he's a possible replacement so even if he has no shot at making team, a good season and he will be considered. It can't come soon enough: his 25th birthday is in 10 days.

Joe Mather- THE ROAD TO .200!!! He's close at .192. He's batting 8-20 (.400) with one homer and seven RBI and two doubles. He's slumping so badly that that was his FIRST homer of the year.

Mark Shorey- He's not just hot. There's another word for going 11-21 (.524) with a homer and three RBI. In case you were keeping count, this is the last AAA guy. The following will be AA.

Honorable Mention- Allen Craig with a .333 average in past week, but mostly because he moved to outfield.

Stock is Falling

Evan MacLane- The SP has a good season with 2-3, 2.85. But past two starts have been brutal. 12-2/3, 9 ER (6.43), 16 hits, 3 walks, and 3 K's. On the bright side, his streak of not pitching less than six innings is intact.

Adam Ottavino- This guy is only 23, but the dreaded b word might get attached to his name. I'll show his stats. 5 2/3, 9 earned runs, 9 hits, 7 walks, and 4 strikeouts. I'll tell you he was a first round pick in 2007. Can you guess the word now? BUST!!!

Brett Wallace- Ok now, this is where you don't take Stock is Falling literally. Yes, MacLane's went down with his recent numbers and Ottavino's definitely did too. But as a hitter, you will get in a slump. He's 6-28 (.214) with six strikeouts, but he managed to get his second homer in AAA.

Honorable Mention- Jess Todd, but mostly for his performance and then demotion.

AAA Notes

Ian Oustland was taken off the DL before Thursday's game.

Brett Wallace made his second consecutive Stock is Falling, but players seem to drop in performance immediately when entering a new level. This is Wallace's first time where he has really struggled. I think he needs this so he doesn't become too cocky.

I just noticed Shane Robinson is batting .244, BUT he has nine steals in just 35 games. Add in the bad average and its even more impressive. I say this in a good way when I say he reminds me of Kerry Robinson. Fastest player on the field, decent average, good fielding, but nothing more than a bench player,

AAA has an impressive pitching staff. Boggs (2-1, 4.50), MacLane (2-3, 2.85), Ottavino (good talent, but he's 0-7, 5.66 BUST), and P.J. Walters (2-4, 4.20).

Boggs has proven to me to be an adequate starter in the majors, Walters has all the physical requirements of a great pitcher at 6'5. MacLane just got promoted from AA in early May, and Ottavino is a first round pick. All are 26 years or younger with the youngest being Ottavino.

AA Notes

I noticed how bad the pitching staff is here. This is probably due to every good player is being promoted. 24 year old Brandon Dickson (2-4, 4.41), 25 year old Donald D. Hearne (4-1, 3.16), 24 year old David Kopp (1-0, 6.52), 24 year old Ryan Kulik (1-3, 5.82), and 22 year old Michael Lance Lynn (5-1, 3.76). So maybe not that bad when looking at the numbers.

A couple important things to know are Kopp recently got promoted and that shows just two starts. The rest are all season stats. I was more mad we had just one 22 year old here, although he's been impressive.

The other four all have birthdays later in the year so essentially they are older than they look. Lynn though just had his birthday, all the more exciting for his future.

In the bullpen, the bad consist of Thomas Brad Furnish (7.15 E.R.A.), Marco E Gonzalez (5.68), Kyle R. Mura (7.88), and Eduardo Nazareth Sanchez (7.20). Important things to know are Sanchez has pitched in just six games in AA, and Mura is on DL and has only pitched in seven games.

Shockingly Furnish has appeared in 13 games with his ummm...ERA. He also lost his SP gig and has pitched in 34 IP. For you non-Math geeks out there, that's 27 earned runs.

Another last note about the bullpen is that no one is really impressive. One guy has a 2.89 E.R.A. and that's about it. Just one guy who is younger than 24 again. Although Sanchez is just 20 years old. Yes, his stats are bad so far, but wow.

The starting catcher Steven Hill has hit 10 homers so far this year. That's about 25 homers in a AA season. However, he's 24 years old too and he has 23 year old Bryan Anderson and 26 year old Yadier Molina in front of him. Also, he hasn't hit a homer since May 23.

Cardinal Game

This was pretty awful again in all facets of the game. Hitting? Two runs so check. Starters? Just five innings with three runs and he got bailed out by Chris Perez so check. Bullpen? Four runs in four innings so check.

The Cards runs come right away with a Shumacher single, Rasmus' double, and then Pujols hit a sacrifice fly that, and this is a first for me, drove in both runners. Carlos Gonzalez made a diving catch, hit the wall, and laid down for a few seconds giving time for Rasmus to score.

Ubaldo Jimenez then promptly retired 17 straight hitters including Albert interrupted by another Rasmus double. Pineiro struggled mightily the whole five innings. He pitched through the first five only allowing one run.

Then things unraveled in the sixth. He gave up four consecutive singles before La Russa pulled the plug. McCllelan pitched a scoreless seventh and then gave up four earned runs in the eighth. As a side note, ESPN made a mistake in the recap. They said the Rockies swept us, but I believe we are playing them tomorrow.

No. 24 Todd Wellemeyer

2008- 13-9, 3.71
2009- 5-6, 5.32
Physical Features- 6'3", 205
Baseball Cube- Control- 31, K-rating- 87, Efficiency- 54

How Cards acquired him: Claimed him off waivers in 2007 from Kansas City
What 2009 Will Hold- Well this told me two things. One my suggestion of bringing Boggs up won't happen, because he has a one year 4.05 million deal. Two, his performance last season was better than I thought.

Also, I may have found something that isn't promising. His K/9 IP is steadily declining. In 2007 in combined seasons with KC and STL he has a 6.8 K/9 IP, in 2008 it was 6.3 and this year its 5.8. His BB/9 IP has also increased from 2.9 last year to 3.9.

The last stat is especially depressing because it seems that was a big reason from his surprising season. During seven seasons in the minors, he had a 4.0 BB/9 IP and in seven major league seasons he had a 4.3 BB/9 IP. That's bad because his career E.R.A. is 4.53.

Links will be back tomorrow

St. Louis Cards Bullpen from Worst to First

Gabe Simonds — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:46:00 -0400

One fact is right. The Cards bullpen was the worst last year, even worse than the Mets. We blew the most saves and somehow still won 86 games. Don't know how don't care, but this year is different. Way different in fact.

Ok, so our bullpen isn't the best in the MLB, but considering the money we paid (less than $5 million as a whole) and the free agents we signed (minimal), it might as well be. We have the shut-down closer, something clearly lacking last year. We have the innings-eater in Kyle McCllelan and he's also pitching in meaningful situations.

We have the young fire thrower in Jason Motte. We have two good left-handed specialists one of which has allowed just four hits to lefties. We have the perfect long-relief man who is expendable in Brad Thompson.

The last two are power armed righties who have spotty control. But I'm pretty sure many teams would love for them to be the two worst.

There are a few amazing things to consider: money and age. Trever Miller's contract is 500,000 this year with incentives for milestones of games he will reach. He will probably reach 65 games so his final payout would be 1.75 million dollars. Blaine Boyer is getting paid 423,000 dollars without incentives.

McCllellan's is at 410,000, Perez's at 402,000, Motte's at 400,000, and Dennys Reyes is at 1 million. Add all this together and you reach 4.39 million dollars. The average age is 28.9 years old which is relatively young for a bullpen. Franklin and Miller, both 36, are outliers however. Five guys are under 28 years old so this could be a good bullpen for the future as well.

Now what exactly has changed. A lot has changed actually. Ryan Franklin, first of all, is better than what Jason Isringhausen, Chris Perez, and himself. By a whole lot. Izzy inexplicably broke down with what I think was a mental relapse.

Perez was only 22 and apparantly Franklin didn't feel comfortable with Izzy still healthy on the team and yet Franklin still closed. Franklin has a 1.29 E.R.A., 13 saves and just one blown save.

We picked up two reliable left-handed specialists. Miller is a true specialist as he righties are batting .429 against him. Reyes is better at getting some righties out, but lefties are who he should face. Last year we had Randy Flores.

Reliable? No way. He had one good pitch, a slider, and a 88-90 fastball. Problem was he couldn't locate either and well you need to do that to be successful in majors.

Jason Motte came up in September last year and threw 11 brilliant scoreless innings. This year, with the exception of Opening Day, he has been the same. Now obviously Motte didn't pitch for the first five months of the year so that adds up to four "new pieces" to our bullpen.

Perez pitched parts of last season, but he might have been better last season than this season so it doesn't matter. Blaine Boyer has been inconsistent at times, but luckily we normally don't use him.

Lastly, Kyle McCllelan is talking up half the innings himself (not really). Last year, he was good, but he blew too many games because he was relied on way too much as a rookie.

This year, he is the same type of pitcher, but he's pitching better and he's blown one game, because of an error. He has pitched in really any type of game: tight game in eighth, blowout, multiple innings when started fails five.

This year I have five guys who I feel comfortable pitching. That is up from...0 in last year. No seriously, its been that different. We added a minor league piece, signed two left-handed specialists, luckily had a guy breakout as a closer, and kept what worked from last year. (Essentially just McClellan there).

Cardinal Game
I went to this game and it wasn't very fun to watch. From the outset you could tell Kyle Lohse was having trouble. Truthfully, it wasn't him. If you watched the other three pitchers who pitched, it was the Reds.

I say one pitcher pitches bad its the pitcher, two its merely a coincidence and both pitched bad, and more than three and its just one of those days. Lohse lasted just two+ innings. Blaine Boyer was able to pitch until the seventh.

Perez and Miller both ended the game. All four pitchers allowed multiple runs. Homers by Lance Nix (twice) and Brandon Phillips were the main runs. Brendan Ryan doubled home Pujols in the seventh but that was about it. Late rally in ninth wasn't really anything.

No. 25 Brian Barden
2008-Memphis- .285/9 homers/35 RBIs/21 doubles; St. Louis- .222 (9 at-bats)/0 homers/1 RBI
2009- STL- .237/4 homers/ 8 RBIs/3 doubles
Physical Features-5'11/195 lbs and 28 years old
Baseball Cube- Power- 73, Speed- 27, Contact- 44, Patience- 26
How Cards acquired him- claimed off waivers from Arizona in 2006
What 2009 Will Hold- He is currently the backup third basemen to Joe Thurston, who despite some errors, is playing great. He is the No. 3 option at short, and No. 4 option at second.

So as you can guess, the most playing time he's gotten is as a defensive replacement or as a pinch-hitter. He's hitting only .237 which is especially bad when Thurston's playing every day hitting doubles and doing all the little things. I see him getting sent down in the future when (if) Troy Glaus comes back or earlier.

Links

Cardinals
Pujols bounced back from an injury with a 1-3 game with 2 RBIs and a walk.

Rookie outfielder Nick Stavinoha lifted the Cardinals to a win.

Brad Thompson filled in nicelywith his swingman versatility.

C70 at the Bat admits he was wrongabout Brad Thompson, but star of the game goes to Stavinoha.

Rams
Losing the Rams would be a crushing blow to the city.

Steve Spagnuolo declined comment if he had escape clause in case Rams left St. Louis. Also in there, Jason Smith got reps in at LT.

You shouldn't worry if St. Louis loses the Rams, because Los Angeles isn't even ready for a team.

Marc Bulger appreciates in his new regime's backing of him.

Tigers
QB Blaine Dalton is off suspension and Sheldon Richardson is on his way to JUCO.

Blaine Gabbert could be one of the September stars, as told in this mailbag.

ESPN
This could be Kobe's last oppurtunity to win the Finals.

Take a guess at who's the most important player.... Just Guess... You're wrong, its Pau Gasol.

Can Andrew Bynum slow Dwight Howard down? Personally, someone has to for Orlando to lose.

Penguins are making this way too predictable. Who will win Game Four? Look at 2008. DETROIT!!!

Defining momentin Game Three was when Pens player Matt Cooke drew a foul on Jonathan Ericcson.

In light of the Big Unit's start to get win No. 300, here is the Starting Nine for Johnson's memorable moments.

Ever wondered what it was like to face Randy Johnson? Some players tell us.

Marc Bulger appreciates in his new regime's backing of him. Yes I repeated that twice.

Delaware St. vs. Michigan is being played in October, but it has no business even being played.

Some NBA draft workouts by those who are wishing to get drafted.

Is making NBA ready players go to college worth it?

SI
NFL Team of the Decade is still very close even with one year left. The Steelers and Patriots are vying for the one spot. Rams finished 16th in ranking all 32 teams... lucky to get that high.

Best individual performances of this decade.

Moments that defined the decade.

Who will follow up Randy Johnson with 300 wins? My guess is someone will, but it will be a few years. A good chance if he you know is good is Rick Porcello but only cause he's 20. In MLB you need to average 20 wins every 15 seasons (not gonna happen) or 15 wins every 20 seasons (more realistic, but still 20 seasons?).

Adrian Gonzalez is on a historic tear.

Daily Scoop- Teams on trade market

Red Wings-Penguins could be annual event. Sad thing is I think he's serious.

Red Wings to re-sign Marian Hossa and why the Canadiens' signing is the wrong move.

Trust (Kobe's in his teammates for example) is the biggest key to the series. I also saw a headline of Obama's pick of Laker's in 6. WHO CARES???

Howard could learn a lot from Kobe in this series.

Nick Calathes is leaving Florida to play for Greece. Why???

2009 NHL Playoff Predictions

Gabe Simonds — Tue, 19 May 2009 20:29:00 -0400

Since I regrettably am not a hockey fanatic, I cannot spend my time dissecting each team like I did for NBA. The difference between the two leagues is NBA players are well-known while the NHL has more of a team nucleus.

Even fanatics don't know the third line defense man (for a team other than their own). Instead, I will write a paragraph about each team, mostly their star players and their style (offensive team or defensive or fantastic goalie).

Eastern Conference Finals: Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Carolina Hurricanes
Game 1 recap here.

Pittsburgh Penguins

First of all, I did my homework on these teams. So yes, Sidney Crosby is on fire right now. It doesn't take a genius to figure out scoring 12 goals in 13 games is nothing short of amazing. Not only is he scoring goals, but he has also dished 10 assists in the series. All in all, he has accounted for 22 of 48 goals for the Penguins.

Evgeni Malkin is no slouch either of course. Along with his seven goals, he has racked up 14 assists as well. It's a big deal that two players on the same team account for 90 percent of their teams' goals, right?

The other factor is goalie Marc-Andre Fleury. He needs to be as good, if not better, than Game 7 of the Conference Semifinals and Game 1 against the Hurricanes. He was mediocre at best before those two performances. It really shouldn't be a surprise that when he allows three goals or less, he has a 9-2 record. When he allows more than three goals, he has a 0-3 record. So if he allows three goals or less, than Pittsburgh has a good shot with the offense they have.

Carolina Hurricanes

First off, I have to mention the biggest surprise thus far in the playoffs is Jussi Jokinen. Did anybody know he needs just one goal to tie the amount he had in the regular season?. He had seven goals in 2008-2009 season. He has six in the playoffs so far. So right off the bat, there is one reason for their surprise run.

Cam Ward has been inexplicably on fire as well for the Hurricanes. He may be 8-7, but he only has a 2.22 GAA. He has five games in which he has allowed one goal or less (one in which he lost). He also recorded two shutouts.

Now, Carolina has a clear objective heading into this series.

SCORE.

First off, all seven games they lost, Carolina failed to reach three goals. Only once did they win when scoring less than that. Other than Jokinen, Eric Staal (9 goals, 4 assists) has been the only primary scorer.

Tuomo Ruutu has largely been a disappointment for them. He scored 26 goals with 28 assists in the season. However, he has just 1 goal and 3 assists the entire playoffs. Since they aren't an offensive team, they need all their scorers to score.

Outcome

When I first thought who would win, I immediately thought Pens for obvious reasons. I looked at the teams and their players and guess who I think know: PITTSBURGH. Carolina's run is over now that they run into a scoring machine (Penguins, not Crosby) with a hot goaltender. I just don't think Carolina can win in a shooting match with Pittsburgh and that's what they'll have to do.

Prediction- Penguins win in five games

Western Conference Finals

Chicago Blackhawks

The Blackhawks are built on a nucleus of Patrick Kane and Jonathon Toews. Neither has disappointed so far in the playoffs. Kane has 8 goals and 4 assists while Toews has 4 goals and 6 assists. Not Crosby-like, but still very good especially for young 20-year-old inexperienced in the playoffs.

Martin Havlat has also produced after a good season with 5 goals and 8 assists. Defenseman Brian Campbell has produced as well with 2 goals and 7 assists. Blackhawks have made it this far because no one has choked, so to speak. What I mean is everyone is producing like they did in the regular season. Goalie Nikolai Khabibulin has been slightly above his usual performance with his 2.33 GAA. Now I am starting to understand the theme of the playoffs: good goaltending= success.

Detroit Red Wings

The blueprint for the Red Wings has been to stack their farm system and have the players step up their performance. They are the Pittsburgh Steelers of hockey. Good example: Johan Franzen.

His goals have risen over the last three years despite his playing time: 10, 27, 34. Now he is leading the Wings in goals, assists, amend points in the playoffs.

Henrik Zetterberg has 7 goals and 9 assists. Nicklas Lidstrom has 3 goals, 8 assists. Their "suspect" goalie Chris Osgood has a 2.06 GAA and has allowed two goals or less in nine games. I'm thinking Red Wings offense can handle that.

Outcome

No way can I not predict the machine that is the Detroit Red Wings. They are the example which every hockey team is looking to follow. Salary cap or no salary cap they have been a dominant force. They have mastered the salary cap and they pick players who not only perform but play brilliantly in the playoffs.

Prediction- Red Wings win in six games

Assessing the St. Louis Cardinals: April Edition

Gabe Simonds — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 21:36:23 -0400

After two weeks for the Cardinals, there have been good and bad things, promising and unpromising things, and most importantly, good and bad results. The good has been the hitting, especially the homers, and the bad has been the blown saves/losses by the bullpen.

The Good

Well, I might as well start with the most important player, Albert Pujols. He has four homers and 14 RBI (half have been in one game, however) so far this season.

My only worry with him is it seems like on some of his outs, he "goes" for a homer. The scariest thing about him though is he is not even at his best. His average is lower than his CAREER average and that isn't even mentioning his potential average.

Starting pitching gets a nod here. Knock out Todd Wellemeyer's 2009 debut and the starters have kept us in the ball game with Carpenter's zero allowed earned runs, Lohse's complete game, Wainwright's low E.R.A., Pineiro's two victories, and Wellemeyer's ability to bounce back from a slow start.

Ryan Ludwig has definitely been good with a 400+ average, 5 HRs, and 15 RBI. He has shut up the people proclaiming him a one-year wonder.

The reserves, minus David Freese, haven't just been promising; they've been good.

Joe Thurston, a long-shot at making the team, is batting, .345 with 6 RBI. Brian Barden is batting .405 with 4 RBI but more suprising 3 HRs. Brendan Ryan, despite the low average, plays anywhere on the infield, his defense is solid, and he has 1 SB. Lastly, Colby Rasmus has a .366 OBP, which wouldn't be too spectacular except his average is .235. Seven BBs is very promising for a Cardinals team that wants to have people get on base for El Hombre.

The Bad

Injuries- Sure only Carpenter has gone down, but that was HUGE. It reaffirmed many people of his status: a better man's Mark Prior. Yes that is very harsh, especially with his Cy Young, and three good seasons, but injuries have plagued him EVERY other year. Troy Glaus has went from a possible return in May to a likely return after the All-Star break.

Rick Ankiel deserves a special section. Not only are his pure statistics bad (.182, 0 HR, 2 RBI), but he looks bad. He is 0-3 with the base loaded with 0 RBI and 1-7 with runners in scoring position. Plus he has eight strikeouts.

David Freese looked good early on. He was crushing the ball. But recently he has hit into double plays and struck out most of the time. I think that is due to little playing time and the hot streak of the other 3B candidates.

Starting pitching- This is more for the potential of what could happen. Adam Wainwright has lost a bit of control and has gotten away with it for the most part. That probably won't continue to happen, but if it does that would be scary.

Kyle Lohse is a scary No. 1 if Adam Wainwright can't hold it, but is a decent No. 2. Pineiro is extremely inconsistent and our fifth starter has yet to be determined, especially with P.J. Walter's shaky debut.

How will it work out?

Starting pitching is in both lists, so I'll start with the bad.

It won't get better than it is now, especially with Carpenter gone. And as far as I'm concerned, Carpenter is done. Yes, his ribs hurt, not his arms, but something else will likely get injured so I've counted him out. Wainwright will definitely improve without a doubt. Lohse will be steady. I don't see an 11-0 run with a All-Star pick, but he is consistent. Wellemeyer might improve on last season and if Carpenter truly is injured for a long time, he needs to be. Pineiro won't be any better. I see an occasional seven inning performance, but an occasional 7 ER performance as well. The fifth starter spot goes to Mitchell Boggs.

Albert Pujols/Ryan Ludwig will stay the same except the averages of both.

The bench is bound to cool down, which means good things for David Freese, who I think may lock down a starting spot with the opportunity. Ankiel will get out of his slump and I think Glaus comes before All-Star break as a sub and then starts afterwards.

But as you know, I don't believe Carpenter will make much of an impact on 2009 for the Cardinals...or 2010,2011, 2012.

NFL Draft: Stafford Not First Overall, Mack Finishes First Round

Gabe Simonds — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 01:42:31 -0400

I have set up my official mock draft. This is assuming none of the teams trade which will not happen, but that makes everything complicated if you predict that part of the draft. I will present my choice, and explain why I chose (or why I think the team would choose) a particular player.

1. Detroit Lions select OT Jason Smith.

The Lions should choose Jason Smith because of the recurring thing that happens over the years in the NFL Draft: bust. It's a scary word to a GM and Matthew Stafford shows the makings of a possible bust. Just the word "possible" would scare me.

The Lions canNOT afford to draft ANOTHER bust.

That leaves out any WR in the first round so...Jason Smith, while not a sure thing either, could follow the route of Jake Long and Joe Thomas in turning their teams into 10 win seasons (by no account am I predicting the Lions to do that...or close).

2. The St. Louis Rams select OT Eugene Monroe.

Not Michael Crabtree, for the same reason as stated above. BUST. I think Crabtree is the real deal, but many people feel the same about all first round receivers. Plus they have a dire need for OT with Orlando Pace leaving.

3. Kansas City Chiefs select LB Aaron Curry

Cassel made my choice about...ooh.. 10,000x easier. QB position...? Check (Whether your sold on Cassel or not, KC is and that is all that matters). Curry was projected here before Cassel came (but that was assuming Lions take Stafford) and nothing has changed.

4. Seattle Seahawks select WR Michael Crabtree

They select him for two reasons: depth and talent. They need his depth and his certainly his talent is irresistible. Last season, they had to sign Koren Robinson in the middle of the season because their first three options were injured. That would convince me to get more receivers.

5. Cleveland Browns select QB Matthew Stafford

Yes, they have Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson, but personally for me that solidifies the argument. They aren't the answer at QB for the Browns. They are good enough to teach him what NOT do in the NFL. And what's so bad about a little competition anyway.

6. Cincinnati Bengals select DT B.J. Raji

They pick him because he's still available, even though WR is more pressing. Raji goes to the Seahawks and then the Bengals will select Crabtree. My justification is their need especially since the Bengals are running a 4-3 and have no legitimate No. 2 option there.

7. Oakland Raiders select WR Jeremy Maclin

As a Mizzou Tiger fan, I would hope he could creep into the Top Five. That just won't happen while Crabtree is here. Raiders will go with a skill position, because JaMarcus Russel has no threat at wide out.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars select CB Malcolm Jenkins

Todd McShay has the Jags selecting Crabtree. He won't fall that far. If Maclin falls then they will select him (I hope they don't because they either have bad luck with receivers or are terrible at tutoring them into the game). Jenkins would fill a need at DB.

9. Green Bay Packers select DE Brian Orapko.

They did install a 3-4 recently, but they will find somewhere for this talented d-lineman to go after he fell.

10. San Fransisco 49ers select QB Mark Sanchez

Well, they do have Shaun Hill and Alex Smith. Smith, however is probably a bust and Hill may have been springing the pigskin all over the place because of Mike Martz. Sanchez could a least give them a long-term option.

11. Buffalo Bills select DE Aaron Maybin

Bills need a pass rusher. I hear Maybin is pretty good at that.

12. Denver Broncos select RB Chris Wells

This may be too high, but so is the other guy they want in Tyson Jackson and seeing as they have no No. 1 RB threat, Wells seems like the guy.

13. Washington Redskins select DE Robert Ayers

Ayers is drafted too high here, but the Redskins love him. They also need a DE.

14. New Orleans Saints select CB Vontae Davis.

Is anybody questioning this move?

15. Houston Texans select LB Clay Matthews.

Matthews has impressed the Texans who pretty much can choose the best defensive player available. I can seem them chasing Sanchez if he is available too though.

16. San Diego Chargers select OT Andre Smith.

An aging O-line pushes the Chargers here and what's better than a guy who, pure talent-wise, was projected second.

17. New York Jets select DE Tyson Jackson.

Jets would love for Sanchez to fall (and frankly, they will probably trade up). But Jackson is the best person available. Another surprise route may be drafting Knowshon Moreno at running back to back up Thomas Jones who is getting up there in age.

18. Denver Broncos select DE Everette Brown.

The Broncos ideal situation would be getting Sanchez (or Stafford) 12th and then a top flight DE at 18. The DE may be done pretty easily, at least potentially, with Orapko, Maybin, Ayers, Jackson, Everette Brown, and even Larry English in the draft.

Unless six teams need defensive end in front of them, they will get what they want. And with Brown and English as two possibilities, Brown is just purely better value.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers select DT Peria Jerry.

Now my personal opinion is they will trade down and get Josh Freeman, because of, well the Jon Gruden situation. Gruden was fired because of lack of development in young QBs so Morris has no choice, but to do that.

But Jerry is a little higher than he should be. Need is the most important thing, however, and they need a DT in their 3-4 defense.

20. Detroit Lions select LB Ray Maualuga. (acquired from Cowboys)

Now, Stafford gets picked first overall and Michael Oher is drafted for OT depth (or just as a starter). But the Lions need help on defense too (and special teams) and Maualuga is the best defensive player available.

21. Philadelphia Eagles select OT Michael Oher.(acquired from Panthers)

Now, all I've heard about is its not in Andy Reid's style to draft OT or something. Well, he doesn't have much of a choice so I refuse to believe he would pass on this great talent (especially with their aging line).

22. Minnesota Vikings select WR Hakeem Nicks.

Now, other options besides Nicks are Darrius Heyward-Bey, Kenny Britt, and Percy Harvin. Considering they have the speedy, deep threat in Bernard Berrian, that takes away Harvin and Heyward-Bey. Considering Nicks as sure hands, he may be a decent possession receiver in his first year with a club that needs receivers.

23. New England Patriots select LB Brian Cushing.

Now they have four picks in first two rounds, this being the only first round pick. My best guess is they try to replace Teddy Bruschi with Cushing, but this pick could be about anything (besides WR).

24. Atlanta Falcons select DE Larry English.

John Abraham is getting up there in age (and personally I don't think he'll last as long as Michael Strahan at 36) and they are stacked at the most available position in the draft, WR. Plus, the length of time needed to learn the NFL "stance" takes a while since they aren't taught this in college.

25. Miami Dolphins select WR Percy Harvin.

I think the Dolphins would like Nicks more, but I am biased considering I am a UNC basketball fan (and those amazing catches in the bowl game). But that aside, I put a lot of opinion in that you shouldn't have two of the same receivers on both sides (not quite sure why or if it even matters).

But Harvin is a nice selection, even though I won't want a Ted Ginn Jr. duplicate on the field.

26. Baltimore Ravens select WR Darrius Heyward-Bey.

(Thank God he finally got picked. Typing his name is a hassle). But seriously if he falls this far, Ravens will pick him.

27. Indianapolis Colts select WR Kenny Britt.

Peyton Manning is given weapons so well that the Colts go out of there way to help him. Britt should last another 5-10 picks, but all the receivers have been taken. As a side note, please receivers don't follow up on last year with the no-show in the first round.

Otherwise, this mock draft is screwed.

28. Philadelphia Eagles select RB Knowshon Moreno.

Does Brian Westbrook finally have a viable backup? We won't know even if Moreno is picked, but if they do pick him, Eagles' fans will be happy. (Eagles fans will you be happy with Oher and Moreno as your two draft picks?)

29. New York Giants select LB James Laurinaitis.

Well, this is one weird pick. I have no idea what they will do if all these WRs actually fall of the draft boards. Well Laurinaitis is best available and they like to have good defensive depth. Oh, and I think Jacobs and Bradshaw will be enough for them at RB.

30. Tennessee Titans select DB Darius Butler.

The Titans apparently tend to take best available. Butler is the best defensive player available. Also, don't expect them to draft a wide out even if they are available. They NEVER draft wide receivers in the first round (which hasn't worked out so well for them considering every off-season they need.... A WIDE RECEIVER)

31. Arizona Cardinals select RB Donald Brown.

Brown was a workhorse at Connecticut and that is about the only thing that worries me with him. Way too many carries by the time he is 22. He has crept up draft boards ever since his explosion in bowl game as well.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers select C Alex Mack.

WAIT!!! They select an offensive lineman? Of course they do, Big Ben is getting killed out there and his career won't continue with the beating he takes. Ebon Britton is another option, but I tend to think inside depth is more of a goal.

SLEEPERS!!!- (Not to get drafted with the first thirty-two, but in general.)

1. WR Jarret Dillard (predicted fifth round) of Rice: ESPN has him with second most SuperScore right behind Michael Crabtree

2. TE Chase Coffman (predicted fourth-fifth) of Missouri: Injury has caused his low position plus blocking, but some TEs can get on purely on receiving.

3. CB Victor Harris (predicted third-fourth) of Virginia Tech: They seem to flow out of VT every year and have productive NFL careers

4. RB Ian Johnson (predicted seventh) of Boise State: Fiesta Bowl 2006

5. Any Oklahoma lineman (from third-undrafted) of Oklahoma: Bradford literally could sat down, did a sit-up, got back up and have five more seconds left. Seriously!!!

BUSTS!!!!- Mostly first rounders...

1. QB Matthew Stafford- any surprise here coming from me...

2. RB Chris Wells- just because I think he will be injury-prone...

3. LB Ray Maualuga- he is a USC linebacker and I feel if he was any other school, he would be lower...

4. LB James Laurinaitis- seems to lack physical tools to be in NFL and The Ohio State University (why do they say it like that?) career did get him in first round alone (I would love if u didn't comment on why you think I'm wrong with him, him, or him, because everyone has a favorite school and is heart broken when his player won't succeed. Besides I will bash a little on my own favorite college football...)

5. DT Ziggy Hood- I'm sorry, but my mouth dropped to the floor when I heard he could be a first rounder. Him, but NOT Chase Coffman. He made minimal effect on our defense, especially passing game (although that is more DE).

I may, and hope, I'm wrong, but its not good when you hear a certain player on your favorite team and surprised they come so early (especially when projected optimistically that Chase Daniels will be drafted fifth-sixth round based on college success and Chase Patton in seventh for his height, arm strength.

And Patton was a four-year backup.

I want comments, but not comments that bash my writing skills. I want opinions on why Stafford will be selected first, or even why Hood won't be a bust. I would love to be wrong on that.

Also, especially comment on my "BUSTS", because that was purely opinion unlike my sleepers which I feel I have enough evidence (in my own brain) to support while my busts are purely guesses.

Big 12 Has Second Most Teams in Elite Eight: Wait, What?

Gabe Simonds — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 13:15:52 -0400

The Big 12 is behind the Big East with two teams in the tournament. The third Big 12 team that would have made it, Kansas, was much closer to Elite Eight than the second Big Ten team, Purdue, and the second ACC team, Duke, which were in their Sweet Sixteen games.

The recurring story on ESPN is how the ACC hasn't been able to compete with the Big East. The story that needs to be told is how the "weak" Big 12 conference now has two teams in the Elite Eight.

Deserved or not, the Big 12 had three seeds in the 7-10 range and, despite the awful positioning, competed well against great competition. Texas easily beat Minnesota in their first round game and, if not for poor coaching (shooting threes when they needed just twos), may have beaten Duke.

Oklahoma State beat the "lucky" Volunteers (all I heard about them was how their great computer profile got them in) and actually were beating Pitt most of the game with red-hot hands from their guards.

Texas A&M beat the Cougars (who are in the overrated Mountain West) and then did what most 8-9 seeds do and got destroyed by UConn.

Missouri is ready to face Connecticut. The national consensus is that they will get killed by what is now feared as the best No. 1 team in the nation. While that may happen, it also probably won't.

Hasheem Thabeet will be running, huffing, and puffing down the court against a Missouri offense/defense that won't stop running. Thabeet may be a beast, but with five minutes left in the second half, he is just like everybody else against Missouri. and that is exhausted. My money would be on UConn, but if I had to choose, I wouldn't put any money down at all.

Oklahoma put doubters to rest by beating Big East powerhouse Syracuse in the Sweet 16. About half of America picked the Orange, probably more. The Sooners defeated the Orange in every aspect of the game.

Blake Griffin put up POY numbers, while Tony Crocker put up 28. They also have super frosh Willie Warren and point Austin Johnson. They are stacked with guards and the Griffin brothers in the post. National title contenders? Yes.

The key test will be UNC. This matchup may make the Sooners regret not winning the Big 12 to earn the No. 1 seed. That will be their hardest challenge in the tournament.

The Big 12 has a case for the second best conference officially. Baylor is in the Final Four of the NIT and they will probably win. Texas Tech Red Raiders, the worst team in the conference, beat Kansas and Texas A&M. Nebraska and Kansas State both had their moments in the regular season defeating current tournament teams, such as Missouri and Texas.

The Big 12 will be a question mark heading into next season. Kansas will be a national title contender, but only if Collins and/or Aldrich stay. Missouri is a question mark with their key senior losses in Leo Lyons and DeMarre Carroll, and Oklahoma will be a completely different team without the Griffin Brothers.

Before you debate who is better, the ACC or the Big East, remember the Big 12 may be better than the ACC in the first place.

Missouri Sports: St. Louis Cardinals

Gabe Simonds — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 08:53:18 -0400

Taken from here.

Starting Pitching

No. 1- Adam Wainwright is our ace based on consistency and statistics. He hopefully will take next step and become an All-Star this year.

No. 2- Kyle Lohse is No. 2 purely from last year’s stats. He comes close to last year’s stats and the Cardinals have a good-not great- one-two punch.

No. 3- Chris Carpenter would be No. 1 except he is coming off two straight seasons of injuries. I don’t think he will be 2005 CY Young pitcher but maybe the good season he had when he first came.

No. 4- Todd Wellemeyer is a great fourth starter especially if you consider he got tired down the stretch. He should last longer this year and put up roughly the same stats as last year.

No. 5- Joel Pineiro is a decent No. 5 when his pitches hit the target, but he is very inconsistent. I see this starting spot changing later in the year.

Bullpen

Lot of question marks here, but I name all the possibilities, but not the long shots at winning the spot.

Middle Relief

Loser of Chris Perez/Jason Motte closer battle- Personally you can’t lose here, both have extremely fast fastballs and both are on the rise, but I might expect some slow starts. Predicted Spot- Jason Motte

Josh Kinney/Ryan Franklin- This goes to whoever doesn’t earn set-up man. Again you can’t go wrong here, because when he was setup man in 2007 Franklin was outstanding and when Kinney was in ‘06 he was as well. But would they succeed in middle relief? Predicted spot- Josh Kinney

Kyle McCllelan- This last middle relief spot is pretty much a given. He won’t start, close or become set-up man. Solid reliever who got tired down the stretch. Should become a reliable reliever in September this year.

Left-handed Specialist- Trever Miller was good with the Rays, but he succeeded most against lefties. Dennys Reyes is a solid second option to face, but I don’t like history of fat left-handed specialists with Cards(with all due respect) such as Ray King.

Set-up Man- Franklin/Kinney/Motte/Perez- Now I am eliminating Perez because he plays ONLY closer and Motte because of inexperience. Franklin and Kinney both have succeeded in role for Cards in years past. Predicted Winner- Ryan Franklin

Closer- Motte/Perez/Kinney- I eliminate Kinney because of his relative lack of playing time due to injuries, but he has a chance. Perez has played closer his whole life and is the Cards’ proclaimed closer of the future. Why not closer of the present? Predicted Winner- Perez

Catcher

Yadier Molina is starting catcher and is solid with his .300 average and low strikeout rate. Jason LaRue is a good backup. I am a fan of old back-ups for some reasons. I see LaRue having a much better season batting-wise.

First Baseman

Albert Pujols is possibly the best player in baseball much less the Cards. Most consistent player in baseball is Pujols.

Second Baseman

Skip Schumacher/Joe Thurston- Schumacher wins this one so Colby can go to the outfield later in the year. He brings a solid leadoff hitter with a .300 average and I see more homers than last year as well.

Shortstop

Khalil Greene- Pretty much guaranteed starting spot considering we traded for him.

Third Baseman

BREAKING NEWS!!! David Freese is injured long enough to where he can’t earn spot, but he will be uninjured by Opening Day. Congrats, Joe Mather for “earning” starting spot. Not sure what we’ll get here, but I want to find out.

Backup Infield

Tyler Greene/Brendan Ryan/Brian Barden/Joe Thurston
I personally think Thurston is a long shot, but that is one opinion. I would like to see Tyler Greene and Brian Barden come up, but Brendan Ryan will likely come up with Greene, who apparently has impressed some coaches.

Left-field

I’m sorry, but Colby Rasmus won’t start in left..yet. First...(gulp)...Chris Duncan will start. Then he will lose his job to Rasmus, eventually.

Center field

Rick Ankiel is a good hitter, but an overrated fielder. Say what you want, but he has to take better reads to run after the ball.

Right-field

Ryan Ludwig is great No. 4 hitter behind Pujols. He will do close to last year if not better. When you consider he didn’t officially start until May, then he could have a better season.

Backup OF

Brian Barton/Colby Rasmus/Nick Stavinhoa
This depends on what the Cardinals do and how the three perform. Will they be patient and bring Rasmus back down or bring the youth group up? I choose youth group. Come on down Rasmus. But the conservative Cards will likely not go that route so expect Barton.

That is the starter report for the St. Louis Cardinals. Next week I will update the player battles only and find good Spring Training articles.

See you on Saturday when I post my Rams offseason thoughts.

Big Six Conference Tournament Preview

Gabe Simonds — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 14:39:58 -0400

Big East

I will start with the Big East since they have already played two rounds, but it seems like it just began with DePaul, St. John's, Cincinnati, Seton Hall, and South Florida out of the picture.

Louisville will defeat Providence, because while Providence has a tournament at-large bid at stake, Louisville should snag No. 1 seed with Big East win. Villanova beats Marquette, mostly because the Golden Eagles are a completely different team without Dominic James.

Back to the second round, Syracuse will easily beat Seton Hall (by the time this you see this, the game will be over). Then they will go to...defeat Uconn. Uconn is different team as well without Jeff Adrien and I believe (not a fact) that he was still playing when the Orange first lost.

Pitt beats West Virginia, in fact mark in the bracket. It's a foregone conclusion. Syracuse however ends their run (if you want to call it that) with a loss to the Panthers.

Louisville will beat out Villanova to advance to the finals. Panthers will win the Big East Tournament over Louisville.

Winner: Pittsburgh (automatic)- No. 1 seed

At-large bids: Uconn (No. 2 seed), Louisville (No. 1 seed), Villanova (No. 4 seed), Marquette (No. 7 seed), and West Virginia (No. 7 seed)

Average seeding- 3.7

Percentage of Teams in Conference- 38 Percent

ACC

No. 9 Miami defeats No. 8 Virginia Tech, No. 5 Clemson wins against Georgia Tech, No. 10 NC State beats No. 7 Maryland, and No. 6 Boston College will defeat Virginia. Now to the second round.

UNC will beat Miami, even though they may try relaxing before the NCAA tournament. Clemson goes on to beat Florida State (who I am not sold on) and Wake Forest will beat NC State.

I say Duke beats Boston College even though I have a gut feeling for BC. Clemson beats UNC, because I think UNC won't play their top players and Wake Forest beats Duke. Wake Forest beats the Tigers in the Title game.

Winner- Wake Forest (automatic)- No. 1 seed

At-large bids- UNC (No. 1), Duke (No. 3), Florida State (No. 5), Clemson (No. 4), Boston College (No. 8)

Average seeding- 3.7

Percentage of Division- 50 Percent

Big 12

First round has already happened in case you didn't know. Baylor, Texas, Oklahoma State, and Texas Tech have all advanced. All were fairly expected except Texas Tech made it a little harder to put Texas A&M in the tournament.

Kansas will probably beat Baylor, Texas beats KSU to knock out their at-large chances, Oklahoma beats their in-state rival Cowboys, and Missouri will beat Texas Tech.

Kansas and Oklahoma both beat their lower seeds to keep everything happen like it should. Kansas however upsets the Sooners in the title game.

Winner- Kansas (No. 3)

At-large bids- Oklahoma (No. 2), Missouri (No. 4), Texas (No. 5), Texas A&M (No. 6), Oklahoma State (No. 8)

Average seeding- 4.5

Percentage of Teams- 50 Percent

Big Ten

No. 8 Minnesota beats No. 9 Northwestern ending their run at the tournament, No. 7 Michigan beats No. 10 Iowa, and No. 11 Indiana upsets Penn State ending their at-large hopes.

Purdue defeats Minnesota, Ohio State wins against Wisconsin, Michigan beats Illinois for an upset in the second round, and Michigan State easily beats Indiana. Ohio State beats Purdue and Michigan State again wins against Michigan. Michigan State wins the Big Ten Tournament.

Winner- Michigan State (automatic)- No. 2

At-large- Illinois (No. 5), Purdue (No. 3), Wisconsin (No. 6), Ohio State (No. 5), Michigan (No. 8)

Average seeding- 4.7

Percentage of Division- 55 Percent

Pacific 10

Stanford beat Oregon State, and Washington State beat Oregon already in the first run. Washington and UCLA will both beat Stanford and WSU to advance to semifinals.

Arizona has more urgency and will win even though ASU has James Harden. California will beat USC, but this is mostly because I hate USC. In the semifinals, Washington and UCLA will both again go to the title game. UCLA will "upset" the Huskies in the title game.

Winner- UCLA (automatic)- No. 3

At-large bids- Washington (No. 4), Arizona State (No. 4), California (No. 7), Arizona (No. 9)

Average seeding- 5.4

Percentage of Division- 45 Percent

SEC

Kentucky beats Ole Miss, Georgia beats Mississippi State, Alabama beats Vanderbilt, and Florida beats Arkansas. LSU loses to Kentucky, South Carolina beats Georgia, Tennessee beats Alabama, and Florida beats Auburn in second round. Kentucky goes to the finals to face Tennessee.

Tennessee wins the conference tournament. This is truly a guess. SEC can pretty much go anywhere.

Winner- Tennessee (automatic)- No. 6

At-large bids- LSU (#6), South Carolina (#8), Florida (#9)

Average seeding-7.25

Percentage of division- 42 Percent

Other At-large candidates

These following didn't win conference tournament who isn't in big six.

Memphis will get No. 2 seed if they win C-USA which is more than likely

Butler, Xavier, Dayton, Utah State (as long as they win one game in tournament), Creighton should all earn at-large bids.

Five Teams I'll Root for in the NCAA Tournament

Gabe Simonds — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 01:39:45 -0500

Well, this weekend has been disappointing for me. Besides Mizzou losing to Texas A&M (which really isn't all bad because they are virtual lock for tourney), VMI lost to Radford.

I love the Colonial Athletic Conference. Three of the four teams in the semifinals are my upset picks if they win. Worst case scenario is if Towson wins it all, because they are under my radar. VCU, Old Dominion, and George Mason are all hopefuls.

Anyway, here are my five favorite teams likely to make the tournament.

1. Mizzou Tigers

This one is easy, because I am from Missouri. Their style of play also would intrigue anyone and no lead is safe with Mizzou. Leo Lyons, and DeMarre Carrol are beasts and can shoot from outside as well as down low. Juniors J.T. Tiller and Zaire Taylor dish the ball and run the floor.

Trio of freshmen guards can hit the three and so can senior Matt Lawrence. Their type of play can take them to the Elite Eight, but it also yells UPSET, because of inconsistent shooting. OOOO WELL. I can deal with it. First bid since 2003 so I will live in the moment.

2. North Carolina Tar Heels

If you haven't figured out faced paced teams intrigued me, then you will now. I am also a BIG HOMER. Did you know Tyler Hansbrough was from Missouri. Well, you do now. Ty Lawson is a double of the MU guards except faster, better shooter, and better passer.

So maybe they aren't alike but same type. Wayne Ellington is a better shooter than any of the three freshmen. Danny Green is essentially like Leo Lyons, but Danny can shoot threes as well.

Sorry but Hansbrough is not alike anyone on Missouri and DeMarre Carrol is unlike ANYONE. But essentially, they are same style, better talent. WAY BETTER TALENT. UNC gives me a reason to root for a real title contender.

3. Creighton or any MVC team that makes the tournament

Yes, yet another homer move here. MISSOURI Valley Conference. I don't care if the team isn't from Missouri, the conference tournament is held in St. Louis so I root for all teams.

My hope is Northern Iowa wins tournament and the Blue Jays can get an at-large bid. Between the two though, Creighton is more likely.

4. Louisville

I hate the Big East so even this pick surprises me. I love their play. Their not fast paced but they can beat any team on any given night. They are the "sleeper" of winning it all. Most people have them no higher than Elite Eight if that.

But Terrance Williams and Earl Clark are good and I was highly disappointed they faced my (they were my team last year; this year the Tigers) Tar Heels in Elite Eight. I have no other reasons.

Please don't get upset; leave that to Duke (COME ON, I HATE YOU BUT BELMONT. BELMONT!!! YOU NEEDED A GAME WINNING SHOT TO WIN!! REALLY??!!!)

5. Xavier

They got upset today by Rhode Island, who by the way most people didn't know had a basketball team, and probably will still make it. I picked them and not Davidson, Memphis, and Gonzaga as the dominant team consistently most years but in awful conferences.

Memphis lost the sleeper role when i read like 5 articles on ESPN alone on how unappreciated they are. Evans < Rose. Just accept it. They won't go to the title game and in Final Four. C-USA is a weak conference.

Is it a surprise that the two decent teams, UTEP and Tulsa weren't killed and everyone else was? Davidson is overrated and basically a one-man team in Curry and Adam Morrison's mustache made me hate Gonzaga.

Anyway, Xavier is my favorite weak conference yet dominant team that can compete with the Big East or ACC once a month (but every night, not so much) By the way, I heard an outrageous claim by John Calipari.

Here's the quote. "To keep winning like this is a big deal. I'm sure if you put North Carolina in this conference, they wouldn't go undefeated. It's very tough."

Now that is BS.

The only team that may beat UNC is Memphis and that is unlikely. Sorry Memphis fans, I am just mad that national media is so high on Memphis. They lost CDR and Rose and Dorsey. This isn't UNC or Kansas who have starters as their reserves.

Teams I Hate

Notre Dame/Georgetown- Yes they are in the Big East. But they have 12 losses.

Duke- I am UNC fan...need I continue?

ALL SEC TEAMS- very overrated conference...hopefully only two teams make it.

Those are only teams I hate. I dislike Davidson (one man team), Kansas (MU rival), Purdue (a little over-hyped), Radford (beat my sleepers in tourney SLU and VMI), and USC (recruiting violations/one and done players).

Honorable Mention for Teams I like

UTEP- fast paced team and surprisingly not one man team despite Stefon's dominance.

St. Mary's- underdog story if they beat Gonzaga.

Butler- I believe five underclassmen starting and still that good.

Citadel- Loved the ESPN story recently and to upset Davidson.

NBA Draft: Part Two

Gabe Simonds — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 01:08:48 -0500

In Part Two of the six-part installment, I will analyze the players themselves, but not the teams that draft the players. In the January edition, I scouted the first round players as ranked by ESPN.com.

Now in February, I am scouting second-round sleepers, followed by Mock Draft No. 1 in March. In April and May, I will re-scout the first and second rounds, followed by Mock Draft No. 2 in June right before the draft.

20-Point Scorers in Little Conferences

Stephen Curry (Davidson)- Might as well start with the nation's leading scorers. Everybody knows him, so I won't explain that he will go in first round, and I am scouting the second round.

Jermaine Taylor (Central Florida)- The UCF guard has 25.3 PPG with a little over five rebounds per game. He has a small chance at a NBA team drafting him in the second round.

Stefon Jackson (University of Texas-El Paso)- This C-USA all-time leading scorer has 23 PPG and is the UTEP's go-to-guy. Some team, any team, should take a chance in the second round on the lengthy guard.

Chavis Holmes/Travis Holmes (Virginia Military)- These twin senior guards each score around 20 PPG with a little over three steals a game. I would consider them a late option in the second round especially with their stern discipline at their military school.

Josh Akognon (Cal-State Fullerton)- 23 PPG always should get you considered as a second round draft pick, but he has faced little competition.

Eric Maynor (Virginia Commonwealth)- I would draft him for his 23 PPG, 6 APG, and 1.8 SPG.

Lester Hudson (Tennessee-Martin)- This guy has amazing stats across the board. He has 27 PPG, 7 RPG, 4 APG, and two steals per game. Well-rounded player earns at least a late second round pick.

Honorable Mention

John Bryant (Santa Clara)- By the time you read this he could have raised his 19 points per game to 20 and move up, but he certainly deserves recognition for his 13 rebounds per game and two blocks per game. The 6'10" center should and probably will get picked in second round.

Good Stats, D-League at Best

Daryl Proctor (UMBC)- 20 points and eight rebounds per game are impressive; the American East is not.

Tony Gaffney (UMass)- The A-10 is not Big East, but it is still hard to block four times game as well as 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Ahmad Nivens (St Joseph's)- Nineteen points and 11 rebounds are difficult to accomplish. Double-double are automatic draft position right? Wrong.

Marc Egerson (Delaware)- Even though the CAA is no picnic, he won't get drafted with fifteen points and ten rebounds per game, because aside from VCU it might actually be a picnic.

Mike Rose (Eastern Kentucky)- The Hilltoppers gained national attention last year, but 21-6-2.5 steals won't get him drafted.

Troy Jackson (Alcorn State)- Twenty points and two steals are very good but two questions. Where is Alcorn State and what conference are they in? In Mississippi and SWAC. Who knew that now?

Michael Deloach (Norfolk State)- 21 points, five rebounds, and two steals per game is alright....for a MEAC player looking to play in NBA.

Non-"Big" School Conference POY Predictions

PPG= points per game, RPG= rebounds per game, SPG= steals per game, APG= assists per game, BPG= blocks per game

American East- Daryl Proctor (UMBC) 20 PPG-8 RPG

Atlantic-10- Tony Gaffney (UMass)- 12 PPG-10 RPG-4 BPG

Atlantic Sun- Garfield Blair (Stetston)- 17 PPG-8 RPG

Big West- Josh Akognon (Cal State Fullerton)- 23 PPG

Big Sky- Anthony Johnson (Montana)-17 PPG

Big South- Chavis Holmes & Travis Holmes as co-MVPs (VMI)-21 PPG-3 SPG, 19 PPG-3 SPG

CAA- Charles Jenkins (Hofstra)-18 PPG-5 RPG

C-USA- Stefon Jackson (UTEP)- 23 PPG- 5 RPG

Horizon- Matt Howard (Butler)- 14 PPG-7 RPG

Ivy- Alex Barnett (Dartmouth)- 20 PPG- 6 RPG

MAAC- Jamal Barney [Loyola (Md.]-19 PPG- 5.6 RPG

MAC-Anthony Newell (Ball State)- 15 PPG- 9 RPG

MEAC-Michael DeLoach (Norfolk State)-21 PPG-5 RPG-2 SPG

MVC-Booker Woodfox (Creighton)-16 PPG- 50% 3 Point Shooting

OVC-Drake Reed (Austin Peay)-22 PPG- 8 RPG

NEC- Ken Horton (Central Conn. State)- 17 PPG-6 RPG-1.7 BPG

Patriot- Garrison Carr (American University)-17 PPG-1 SPG

Southern- Stephen Curry (Davidson)- 28 PPG-6 APG

Southland- Anthony Vereen (Texas-Arlington)- 17 PPG-6 RPG

SWAC- Troy Jackson (Alcorn State)-20 PPG-2 SPG

Sun Belt- Desmond Yates (Middle Tennessee State)-18 PPG- 5 RPG

WAC- Gary Wilkinson (Utah State)-17 PPG- 7 RPG

*ACC, Big 12, Big East, Big Ten, Pac-10, SEC, WCC, and MWC will be predicted in a later article of me predicting the outcome of the tournament.

Are the Missouri Tigers the Real Deal?

Gabe Simonds — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:52:18 -0500

The Missouri Tigers have fooled us before, but the difference this season is that they are winning in conference play. In seasons past (as well as this one), the Tigers have had a relatively easy non-conference schedule to raise their win total.

The only hard games this year were a win against USC at a neutral site, a loss to Illinois at a neutral site, and a loss at Xavier. A win at home versus California belongs there too, but we are undefeated at home, so that ruins it a little.

The two losses are respectable, and the wins certainly didn't hurt them, but the rest of the games were against mid-majors or worse.

In conference play, we've stayed undefeated at home, beating Kansas, Texas Tech, and Baylor, plus the bottom of the conference. Losses to Kansas State and Nebraska have hurt, although both were away and KSU proved to be a different team than before. Mizzou's win at home facing Nebraska proved MU was a different team then and a different team entirely when they are home.

Now, I have perfect explanations for their big wins and key losses except for Nebraska's game.

Key Losses

Xavier

This game was won by Missouri if they were a good free throw shooting team. Luckily, this is the only game that has been affected directly by their free throw shooting. This game proved that Missouri can compete with some of the best. Even though Xavier isn't the Elite Eight team of last year, it is close enough to believe Mizzou belongs and could make it farther than the second round.

Illinois

As proved later in the season, Illinois turned out to be a great team. Missouri also wasn't the same team. They didn't have the same confidence they've had in the past. Illinois has great chemistry, good experience, and good defense, plus a good offense when they shoot well. That spelled disaster as Illinois shot well and Mizzou's offense struggled against a good team.

Kansas State

Even though KSU was near the bottom of the Big 12 when they faced Mizzou, something different happened with their team here. The Tigers were clearly affected by the hostile crowd and got off to a bad first half. They never recovered as Kansas State found its stroke and wouldn't miss at one point.

Big Wins

USC

My two explanations for this win are not very good. One, USC didn't belong in the Top 25; therefore, we got credit for a win against an overrated team. Secondly, it was the beginning of the year (i.e., SLU beat Boston College). I think MU would still beat USC right now six times out of 10.

Texas

Same scenario as USC here. Texas was wildly overrated. We got credit for that. Plus Damion James was half hurt and wasn't the factor he normally is. It still is a huge win, however, because they beat them AT Texas. And with Mizzou, any away win is huge.

Kansas

This could be stretching the reasons, but this was due to A) Mizzou's hostile crowd (by the way, they didn't cause MU's slow start. That happens almost every game) and B) the inexperience of Kansas.

Sherron Collins and Cole Aldrich, the most experienced players, were role players on a championship team. That's important, yet they had no experience in the final seconds as leaders. Backing up Collins and Aldrich, there is a slew of mostly freshmen, who can get rattled by crowds.

(No, California at home and Georgia, part of a very weak SEC conference, don't belong in wins.)

Outlook

Missouri still has a chance to prove they are a title contender with three key games coming up. This coming Saturday is Kansas State at Missouri, and this is important so MU can prove they are better than KSU or at least that they are evenly matched. Then they face Kansas at Kansas in their hostile environment, and a win there would pretty much seal Mizzou's fate as a top team.

Next game at home is versus Oklahoma, and this could either make Missouri a top five team or lose to a more than respectable game that wouldn't affect Mizzou's status in the NCAA at all.

Prediction

They beat Colorado at Colorado convincingly and get the job done at home versus KSU.

Begin first losing streak by losing at Kansas and vs. Oklahoma, and beating Texas A&M.

Finish 25-6 ranked between No. 15-20 and getting third seed in Big 12, which will set up KU vs. MU in a neutral site, which proves who is better (won't try predicting this one).

The Top 10 St. Louis Cardinals Moments I Saw Live

Gabe Simonds — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 14:32:43 -0500

This will cheer me up as a person, because, hey I need a boost. The Rams and Blues suck, and the Cardinals have gotten worse losing all the FA and missing out on Fuentes. This and the fact the predominantly soccer city may get a team in the MLS (although i wouldn't watch it probably, its nice to know we are good city for any sport). Here are the moments that I watched live, either on television or at the game, but not on an instant replay. I'm am sorry, because I am a teenager so I will only have very very recent memories. So knock out any 90's (but seriously, besides Big Mac name one great 90's memory that happened because of the actual game). By the way, Jim Edmonds' potentially game-saving catch in Game 7 of NLCS in 2004 earns honorable mention so as to not give away the list. Enjoy Cardinals fans, and give me suggestions of your favorite memories. I'm sure I missed a lot.

Begin Slideshow

NBA Draft: Part 1

Gabe Simonds — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:43:38 -0500

In Part 1 of the six-part installment, I will analyze the players themselves, but not the teams that draft the players. In the January edition, I will scout the first round players as ranked by ESPN.com. Then in February, I scout second round players followed by Mock Draft No. 1 in March. In April and May, I will re-scout the first and second rounds followed by Mock Draft No. 2 in June right before the draft.

First off, I will tell you who WON'T enter the NBA draft and tell you the reason why. At PG, I think Patrick Mills will return to St. Mary's, because he can improve his stock and this year is stocked with PGs. Nick Calathes also will probably stay due to Florida not reaching its full potential.

Last notable PG who should stay is Sherron Collins, who despite a great year, is relatively low in the draft. Waiting a year could raise his stock, because of his experience, and hopefully improved talent.

Anyway, the best-rated point guard in ESPN.com is Ricky Rubio and I agree. He is tall, lanky, tough, a leader, and plays in Europe. My next-rated is Jeff Teague, who has been an integral part of Wake Forest's run to dominance in the NCAA.

Based on production, which I value more than talent, but only to a certain extent, I choose Stephon Curry next. He makes solid passes, great shooter, and he is basically carrying Davidson right now. Jrue Holiday of UCLA is aggressive, versatile, and quick yet his little production could lead to a drop or him returning to school since he is only a freshman.

Willie Warren is my next favorite as he has helped Oklahoma round out its roster in having a solid front court and back court. I really like Brandon Jennings even with his struggles with the Euro-league. This has toughened him as a person as the coaches are not easy on him and it will prepare him early on in NBA as a role player.

Johnny Flynn's acrobatic style, Ty Lawson's quickness and great passing, and Darren Collison's experienced leadership ranked in order as my last three potential first round guards.

We have quite a few potential first round picks here. First off, the best SG and one of my personal favorites is James Harden, the left-handed scorer for ASU who has raised up the Sun Devils with his 22 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 4.3 APG.

No clear second has yet to emerge from the pack, but as of now DeMor DeRozan out of USC and Tyreke Evans out of MEM lead. They both have serious problems though as DeRozan has ball handling issues, a mid-game inconsistency, and needs to improve his defense and Evans seems selfish and not a team player.

In my opinion, Gerald Henderson is the next best due to his recent resurgence and he has lead Duke to their current No. 1 ranking. He may stay however if Duke is unsuccessful in their run to the title. My next choice is tough, but I choose Evan Turner over Chase Budinger, because OSU has a winning record in the Big Ten and Arizona does not in Pac-10.

Budinger is huge for a SG and knows how to score, but is lazy at times while Turner has more positives and his negatives are actually that he is still improving. Jodie Meeks is the next best player and his stock may rise due to his 54-point performance versus a very good Tennessee team (although not defensively).

Wayne Ellington amazes me with his shots with little space, but that is his only exceptional gift and he will come to the NBA because his good buddies Hansborough, Green, Ginyard, and possibly Lawson will all leave.

Terrence Williams would make a good role player in the NBA and with an improved offense a starter, because his defense is outstanding. Three potential SGs who are reliable seniors at little basketball schools are Lee Cummard of BYU, Robert Vaden of UAB, and Lester Hudson of Tennessee-Martin. Here is a last possible first rounder, although a long shot, K.C. Rivers of Clemson who excels at stealing the ball and being mistake-free.

Those who stay in school will/could be Manny Harris, because Michigan is on the rise and, with a top recruit, they might be able to contend, Greivis Vasquez returned last year with identical numbers as of now, Scotty Hopson as the talent, not the production, and Paul Harris has more to prove at Syracuse.

Here is a very thin class. This one is on gut instinct, but I think Austin Daye will return to take Gonzaga higher. Tyler Smith of Tennessee and Kyle Singler of Duke will both return. Devin Ebanks of West Virginia has a lot to prove and has had little production, Omri Cassipi of Israel will not get his first round guarantee, and DeShawn Sims will return with Harris to take Michigan farther.

Al Farouq-Aminu, a one-and-done freshman apparently, has had an excellent year for Wake Forest and that will be short-lived as he will not pass the Top Five possibility. Earl Clark of Louisville seems like he will be a solid SF as a good mid-range shooter, improved ball handling, and a good passer.

DaJuan Summers will be well prepared as will the other SF ahead from the tough schedule they face in their No. 1 ranked conference and his incredible talent. Damion James will be smart and leave for the NBA draft going higher than normal from the thin talent at his position and his next best player A.J. Abrams is leaving also.

Sam Young knows how to win and he plays tough teams regularly plus he is a solid shooter with some range, and he is still learning the game. Danny Green would win the Sixth Man Award if it were available by a large margin as he is an excellent offensive performer; however, his defense brings him down.

Lastly, Robert Dozier could be drafted in the first round just because he is the last available besides Micah Downs, who lets face it, will be lucky to be drafted.

Here is an excellent class with tons of talent. The POY in 2007-2008 is barely considered in the first round. DeJuan Blair of Pittsburgh will stay; after all, his stock will rise barring injuries over the next two years. James Johnson of WF and Derrick Brown of Xavier will both stay likely not expecting much in the NBA plus they enjoy winning.

Blake Griffin is the clear No. 1 overall much less PF with his double-double average. He is strong, tenacious on D and rebounding, plus he scores. Greg Monroe is another one-and-done as there is no way he is passing up this opportunity with his talent. Jordan Hill of Arizona will leave with his classmate Budinger and their falling program.

Gani Lawai of Georgia Tech also averages a double-double. Patrick Patterson will likely leave with Jodie Meeks, because he is a Top 20 pick. Tyler Hansborough has the intangibles but apparently not the required talent to succeed. Josh Heytulet will try to bring his winning ways to a new team in a new league and Michael Washington will leave Arkansas for its losing ways.

Hasheem Thabeet leads the class of centers as a 7'0 lanky guy who can block anybody. He is a potential Top Five pick. B.J. Mullens was predicted after Thabeet but that has changed since Mullens hasn't performed well productivity-wise. Cole Aldrich has so much more to accomplish at Kansas so he may stay.

Jerome Jordan of Tulsa has been solid averaging nearly 10 rebounds and 14 points per game. Michael Dunigan and Tony Woods are talented freshman who haven't performed well while Andrew Ogilvy has a Vandy program on the rise. Ukraine center Vyacheslov Kravtsov will likely be a late first-round pick.

Overall if you need a surplus of shooters or passers for your back court, there is a plentiful of amount of them. If you need a banger in the post or a rebounding force, you need a Top Five draft pick.

NFL Playoffs: Dream or Nightmare?

Gabe Simonds — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 23:19:43 -0500

The only certain thing about the NFL Playoffs in 2008 is uncertainty. In the first two weeks, only three favored team, ranking wise, won their respective games. Plus the supposedly overrated Arizona Cardinals beat the Falcons in Week One.

All these upsets make you wonder if this is good or bad. It's good if you're a fan of Philadelphia (who, after a long drought, has a possibility of three titles if the 76ers make the playoffs and get hot late), Arizona, Pittsburgh (the only expected team whose there), or Baltimore.

If you bet, it most certainly is the worst thing possible. So I will answer this question based on the fact that you are an everyday person who just really likes football.

It also depends on who you like to lean towards. If you like upsets, this was a wonderful weekend. If you like favorites, it's terrible. So far, the way the playoffs have played out, the NFC Championship game features two nine-win teams. Doesn't the regular season seem kind of pointless as long as your in the playoffs?

Save your money and get a good coach and you might sneak into the playoffs and its basically a crap shoot. In the AFC Championship game, its somewhat different, although an 8-8 team was a win away from being here.

The good thing with this is that when watching a playoff game, it has a sort of NCAA March Madness feeling. I mean how could it not. That is amazing. You can't assume anything at all.

You have to watch the game play out and chances are, or at least the way they've been, you will be surprised with the result. Difference is No. 1 seeds lose, too, so you don't even have a team that basically is guaranteed past the 1st round.

My last thought is that if you are leaning towards one team or feel like this team is better, chances are they will lose. So if the Cardinals win, don't be totally shocked. The only shocking thing about this is people still, STILL, expect them to be rocked, although some do not feel this way.

The other game, by betting standards, has the Steelers favored, but I feel like every NFL fan feels like its a pick'em. Either team can win this game and a controversial call or a key play will probably determine the game.

MLB Offseason: Hot Stove Report

Gabe Simonds — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 08:47:43 -0500

The 2008 MLB offseason should be closely followed as your team could sign any of the 19 truly good players. Especially if your team is looking for a SS, SP, CP, or outfielder, specifically a LF. Half of these players probably will sign with their current team, but if they will test the free agent market then anything can happen.

I'll start with the starting pitcher, questionably, the most important position in the game. Unfortunately, it is most expensive in terms of quantity. The best hitters get the most money, but the quality of a 4th pitcher costs more than an average fielder.

Carlos Silva got a four year, $48 million deal from the Mariners. Carlos Silva went 4-15 with a 6.46 ERA (I'm sorry I'm picking on you Mariners, but that is the best example).

Look for better deals from the likes of Brad Penny, A.J. Burnett, C.C. Sabathia, John Smoltz, Ben Sheets and Tom Glavine. The money for the first three starters is for them to sign with other teams. The Dodgers are pursuing other starters such as Sabathia and the injury to Penny certainly solidified their decision to let Penny go.

The Blue Jays and Brewers on the other hand won't pay the money due to their free agents, Burnett, and Sabathia.

Glavine will likely re-sign with the Braves. Smoltz likely will re-sign as well, but who is to say that Braves aren't fed up with his injuries. Maddux will likely retire. Sheets has a very slim chance re-signing with the Brewers. The Brewers will sign Sabathia if they get the money, not Sheets The pitching free agent class includes at least four future Hall of Fame members.

Other SP: Curt Schilling, BOS; Kenny Rogers, DET; Andy Pettitte, NYY; Mike Hampton; Josh Fogg, CIN; Livan Hernandez, COL; Randy Wolf, HOU; Orlando Hernandez, Pedro Martinez, NYM; Jamie Moyer, PHI; Braden Looper, Mark Mulder, STL; Mark Prior, SD; Odalis Perez, WAS

This class of closing pitchers is thin although it includes a future Hall of Fame member, the record save holder, and the record consecutive save without a blown save holder.

Trevor Hoffman, Francisco Rodriguez, and Eric Gagne all hit the open market. Hoffman could sign with Padres, but they are rebuilding so why invest in an older, expensive closer.

Rodriguez could sign with Angels, but only because they have the money. The Mets are front-runner, because of the dire need for a closer and the fact that they have money.

Lastly, Gagne won't be resigned by the Brewers and won't likely be sign as a closer. It looks like he lost his stuff since his record and he could just be a solid set-up man who turns into a closer.

Other CP: Todd Jones, DET; Brandon Lyon, ARI; Kerry Wood, CHI Cubs; Brian Fuentes, COL; Jason Isringhausen, STL

Three years ago, the shortstop class would have been the class of the year if these three were in it. Now, it's overshadowed by the starters, closers, and outfielders. Mostly, this is due to them being overpriced and aging, injury prone players.

The most formidable are Edgar Renteria and Orlando Cabrera. Renteria has good range and his hitting skills are well known. Unfortunately, his price should go down due to age, which would effect his defense more. Renteria likely won't sign with the Tigers, because he opted out of an $11 million contract.

Cabrera is the same way with less talent at the plate, but matches the defense. Nomar Garciaparra may be the best when healthy. He is barely ever healthy though as he played in 360 games in last four years, which is two seasons and 20 games into the 3rd. Also, he's 35 years old.

Other SS: Alex Cora, BOS; Adam Everett, MIN; Rafael Furcal, LAD; Luis Rivas, PIT; Omar Vizquel

The big names here are outstanding. First, Manny Ramirez had a terrific end to his year. No doubt his ending to 2008 will affect his price. Possible teams to add him are usual suspects (LA, NYM, NYY, and LAA).

Adam Dunn is a strikeout king, in the bad way of course, but he hits homers, drives in runs, and can maintain a good average. He had a bad average last year with a lot, A LOT, of strikeouts, but that shouldn't affect him too badly.

Pat Burrel is the same type of player, but he know has playoff experience and a ring. Ken Griffey, a sure first-ballot HOF, who is fourth on the homer list.

Other OF: Bobby Abreu, NYY; Raul Ibanez, SEA; Rocco Baldelli, Cliff Floyd TB; Jim Edmonds, CHI Cubs; Corey Patterson, CIN; Scott Podsednik, COL; Luis Gonzalez, FLO; Moises Alou, NYM

Other Top FA:

C: Jason Varitek, BOS; Ivan Rodriguez, NYY, Greg Zaun, TOR; Paul Lo Duca, FLO; Brad Ausmus, HOU

1B: Mark Texeira, LAA; Jason Giambi, NYY; Tony Clark, ARI; Daryl Ward, CHI Cubs; Doug Mientkiewicz, PIT; Rich Aurilla, SF

2B: Mark Grudzielanek, KC; Orlando Hudson, ARI; Mark Loretta, HOU; Jeff Kent, LAD; Ray Durham, MIL

3B: Joe Crede, Juan Uribe, CHI WS; Casey Blake, LAD; Mike Lamb, MIL

NFL Surprise: Week Nine

Gabe Simonds — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 17:02:55 -0500

Week nine featured many useless matchups, yet there were some surprises. Let’s start with the shocking first half and astounding comeback.

The Kansas City Chiefs played the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and if you didn’t see it I bet you wouldn’t know why it is a surprise. The Chiefs jumped to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter on a pass from Dwayne Bowe (yes, the wide receiver) to Tyler Thigpen (a QB) and a red zone rush by Kolby Smith.

The Buccaneers responded with a field goal, but the Chiefs quickly retaliated with another touchdown through the air and a field goal to make the score 24-3 with 2:13 left in the first half. Then the trouble began. Clifton Smith ran the ball back 97 yards on the ensuing kickoff.

Later, a Matt Byrant field goal closed the gap within 11. After a scoreless third quarter by both teams, a trick play got the Buccaneers six points, but they missed the two-point conversion.

The Chiefs then got their second field goal to put them up 27-19. Garcia threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Bryant and then threw a two-yard pass for the two-point conversion.

In overtime, Matt Bryant made the 33-yard field goal to win the game.

This shows two things. The Kansas City Chiefs are potentially a good offensive team and apparently their defense is bad—when up either by 20 or down by 20. That leads me to believe they will win two more games and finish 3-13.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were meant to win. On a 38-yard field goal on third down, Matt Bryant missed it, but a false start occurred, bringing them back five yards. Jeff Garcia completed a 10-yard pass and Matt Bryant had a second chance with a shorter distance of 33 yards.

“Bengals Get First Win Behind Fitzpatrick’s Big Day.” It was hard to belive.

Okay, so the inevitable happened—but against the Jacksonville Jaguars? Like the Chiefs game, the Bengals started first with two straight touchdown passes to Chad Ocho Cinco. (If Bengals say it, I will too.) The Jags got a field goal and closed the half with the score 14-3.

Not nearly large enough, right? Cedric Benson agreed and ran in for a touchdown to put the game at 21-3. Another field goal followed and then a fumble recovery for a touchdown.

Late in the fourth, Maurice Jones-Drew scored a touchdown. 21-19. The Jags failed to get in on the two-point conversion, picked up their fifth loss of the season, and diminished possible playoffs hopes in their close-knit division.

The Bengals' defense is still bad. The team won with some luck and early scores.

The Jaguars, on the other hand, are now behind the Titans and Colts. They can only afford to lose one more game this season, which is possible but extremely unlikely as the Jags will take on the Titans and Colts later this season.

Lastly, this hardly counts as a surprise, but this is for my own benefit: I thought the Jets were going to lose. Now, they will make a serious legitimate run.

The New York Jets scored first with a Jay Feely field goal. The Bills responded with a touchdown pass by Trent Edwards. The Jets then recovered a Trent Edward’s fumble in the Bills' red zone. Nonetheless, they couldn’t get the touchdown and settled for a field goal.

Trent Edwards made another mistake, although this was an interception, and it was run back 92 yards for a score. The Jets scored first yet again in the second half with a field goal later matched by the Bills. Early in the fourth, Jets running back Thomas Jones ran for a touchdown, giving the Jets a 23-10 lead.

The defense, not the offense, scored next on an interception that was run back 42 yards for a score. An interception by the Jets sealed the deal with a little over a minute left in the game.

The Jets are for real, but will that be enough? After all, the Patriots, Bills, and Jets are tied for first place. The Miami Dolphins are close behind at 4-4 and, according to ESPN.com, have the easiest remaining schedule of the four.

The Bills, who early on had fourth quarter comebacks, are now losing because of Trent Edwards' inability to lead the team to a touchdown. I think the early magic created by the Bills is over, but they still can manage 10 wins somehow.

It could be between the Jets and the Dolphins. I don’t see the Patriots making the playoffs because they haven’t been able to beat good teams.

Other Scores around the League

Tim Hightower replaces Edgerrin James as starter and leads the Cardinals to victory. An early stop by the Rams and an 80-yard TD pass by Marc Bulger proved to be a fluke as Cardinals dominated from then on.

34-13

Byron Leftwich led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a victory after Big Ben’s early injury. The real story, however, was the defense. They limited Portis to just 51 yards and forced two interceptions.

23-8

Even though Green Bay Packers managed 390 total yards, their failure to convert in the red zone led to their loss to the still undefeated Titans. Led by Chris Johnson, the Titans spurred a comeback and won in OT.

19-16

Giants win through running game.

Eli Manning had three touchdowns, but gave up three turnovers. The Cowboys tried to use both quarterbacks, Brooks Bollinger and Brad Johnson, neither of which worked.

35-14

The Colts and Patriots battle it out until the end, but former Pat Adam Vinatieri wins Colts the game on a 52-yard field, his longest since being a Patriot in 2002.

In the end, the better QB won the game and it wasn’t Matt Cassel.

18-15

McNabb threw for 349 passing yards and led the Philadelphia Eagles to a convincing win.

26-7

Rookie running back Matt Forte led the Chicago Bears to victory with 126 yards in a close interdivisional battle.

Bad news: They beat the winless Lions by a close margin and Kyle Orton is out for a month.

27-23

Sophomore running back Adrian Peterson piled up 139 rushing yards in pursuit of an important victory over the Texans. Early on, Matt Schaub was injured and Sage Rosenfals was thrust into the lineup—only to throw a costly late interception in the fourth quarter.

28-21

The offense was flowing for the Falcons as Matt Ryan threw for 220 yards and Michael Turner rushed for 139 yards. The Oakland Raiders were anticipated to be a competitor in the NFL this season, but Darren McFadden and JaMarcus Russel have done nothing.

24-0

Even though Cutler threw 300 yards, he added three interceptions to that list giving the Miami another victory. Chad Pennington and Ronnie Brown outplayed Jay Cutler and Andre Hall, and Brandon Marshall was shut down.

26-17

The Houston Rockets Will Become The Biggest Disappointment Of 2008

Gabe Simonds — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:13:59 -0500

The Houston Rockets will not become NBA champions this year or even make the conference finals. Forget the fact that they are 3-0 right now.

I was really convinced when they beat the Oklahoma City Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies, the league’s last place teams, and they beat an aging Dallas team that they probably prepared for instead of the opening Grizzly game.

Anyway, my point that I will make is that the Rockets will be a regular season team only. Injuries (or maybe suspensions) will occur and arguments will happen, especially if the Rockets don’t win. I am here to look beyond the stats and instead look at the intangibles.

The Rockets have little beyond Ron Artest, recently acquired in a trade with the Kings, Yao Ming, a dominant yet injury-prone center, and Tracy McGrady, their franchise player.

Rafer Alston is an inconsistent shooter who improved his defense last year and Luis Scola is a rebounding force, yet, was afraid of committing offensive fouls in the paint.

Also, the Rockets decided to improve their depth at an unneeded position. The front-court is stacked but only behind Artest and McGrady. They have Shane Battier, a SF, who might be forced in as a PF, and Brent Barry, Luther Head, and Steve Francis.

Brent Barry is a better Luther Head and Steve Franchise is no longer in the plans so he won’t likely contribute.

Beyond that, Yao Ming injuries have devastated the franchise late in the year and most likely they went into the playoffs without him. He hasn’t played 60 games in the last three years and all were throughout the postseason as well.

Ming rebounds, scores, assists, and leads the Rockets. He is 7’5" and incredibly hard to stop. That doesn’t matter much when he isn’t there when it matters most.

Yao Ming recently bashed Ron Artest after the trade and rightfully so. Artest responded saying Yao doesn’t know a black person from the ghetto or something. Not a smart thing to say to the fan favorite Ming.

He causes problems and why will he stop? The Sacramento Kings and Indiana Pacers were legit teams with playoff possibilities and after him were complete messes. So I pray Rockets won’t be the same way.

Tracy McGrady was one of the top players in the league. His numbers have declined steadily each year from 32 points down to 24 points last year. This trend likely will continue especially with Artest and Ming No. 1 and 2 scorers.

McGrady can hopefully keep above 20 points and avoid the injury bug. If so, McGrady will have yet another consistent season.

Let’s say Artest causes no trouble, Ming doesn’t get injured, and McGrady returns to top form. All that happens, and I still rank them below the Lakers, Jazz, and Hornets believe it or not.

If they develop incredible chemistry, then I rank them in front of Hornets and Jazz and maybe a few lucky games and they beat the Lakers.

I still don’t have them winning it all. All that happening is very unlikely due to the Ming’s injury history, Artest’s chemistry troubles, and McGrady’s steady decline from elite players in the league.

ESPN Favors East Coast

Gabe Simonds — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 06:57:15 -0400

Look, I love to watch ESPN in the morning, but I always find myself disappointed. I either don't see my favorite team (the Cardinals) unless I watch it for two hours, or I see the Boston Red Sox or Yankees twice before the Cardinals.

Red Sox fans and Yankees fans don't understand, and in truth I would love to turn on ESPN and in any half hour see my team's recap. So really, I am writing this because I'm jealous.

Although the Red Sox won two World Series, the Cardinals have been just as good, making NLCS appearances in 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 while Boston made it to ALCS in 2003, 2004, and 2007.

They made it to the World Series twice and so did the Cardinals. In fact, they are the two previous winners of it. The only difference is that the Red Sox won both. The Red Sox actually haven't been the better team over years in this decade.

The Cardinals are also counted out of the playoffs, even though they're in reach of the wild card, but that is a different matter.

The picture is messed up, but don't worry.

MLB Scouting Report: Toronto Blue Jays

Gabe Simonds — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:46:12 -0400

The Toronto Blue Jays have a strong pitching staff and their hitting is a work in progress. They have the best 1,2,3 punch in the league arguably. Their bullpen is rounded out by a great set-up man and a reliable closer. I don't see any hitter that jumps out me though.

Their starting staff has former Cy Young winner Roy Halladay, injury-prone A.J. Burnett, and rising star Dustin McGowan as their top three starters. Some teams have better 1,2 punches, but no one has a McGowan type player at number 3. Young starter Shawn Marcum and 23 year old Jesse Litch have good potential. If either one of those two pitchers breakout, they could have a chance at the playoffs.

Scott Downs and Brian Tallet are the only middle relievers with a E.R.A. under 4.00. The rest of the bullpen, Jesse Carlson, Jason Frason, and Brandon League are all under 30 so they have potential. Jeremy Accardo takes the set-up role and does a good job at it too. He replaced B.J. Ryan with 30 saves so now they have a good back-up if Ryan gets injured. B.J. Ryan had 38 saves the year before.

Their batting order on the other hand has in my opinion many problems. David Eckstein, although a overachiever, is still overrated. His defense is below average and the he can only hit for average. Scott Rolen lost some power and is now injury-prone. Frank Thomas is very old so he can't go anywhere but down. Gregg Zaun is an average catcher. Aaron Hill and Matt Stairs are both around .290 average with decent power. Vernon Wells and Alex Rios are two people who NEED to reach 20 homers and 100 RBIs each.

Overall, the Blue Jays are a good team in the wrong division. They need to break even against the Red Sox and Yankees and then kill the Devil Rays and Orioles. They should go over .500 against the rest of the teams to have a shot at the playoffs. If not, they are once again the best team who is in 3rd place.

MLB Scouting Report: Boston Red Sox

Gabe Simonds — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:21:21 -0400

The fact that the Boston Red Sox have recently won two World Series either disguises their problems or means the start of a long string of victories over the next few years.

The staff is by far their best strength, with Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Clay Bucholz, Jon Lester, and Tim Wakefield, plus Jonathon Papelbon as closer. The lineup does have some problems as well. Fortunately they have a hitter-friendly ballpark.

Sports Illustrated and ESPN both predict Boston will finish second.

Beckett is consistent and at his prime age of 28 he is very capable of winning 20 games for consecutive seasons barring an injury.

Dice-K learned American tendencies and, despite his high ERA, he found a way to win games. Still, he will never be worth what Boston paid for him. (A total of $100 million counting their price to talk to him.)

Jon Lester is coming off arm surgery and supposedly his arm is feeling good. Tim Wakefield, although inconsistent, wins games with an average of over 13 wins per season the last three years.

Clay Bucholz, who pitched a no-hitter last year in his second start, is a young threat on the mound as well.

Jonathon Papelbon pitched like a Hall of Fame closer last year. He had an under 2.00 ERA with 37 saves and .77 WHIP. Hideki Okajima, Manny Delcarmen, and Javier Lopez all had under 3.20 ERA while pitching in at least 40 games last year. Their holes at bullpen are the rest.

Julian Tavarez, although a good vet, has steadily declined the past three seasons. Last year his ERA went above 5.00.

Mike Timlin's age also seems like a problem. You wonder how much longer he can pitch at the same level.

David Aardsma rounds out the bullpen as a 27-year-old. In his rookie season, he had an ERA barely over 4.00, but last year he pitched only 25 games.

The hitting supports Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz, both of whom are over 30. Also above 30 are six of the nine players projected in the starting lineup. That's the bad news.

The good news is that Fenway Park is a hitter's park. Also good is that Pedroia and Ellsbury can be slowly put into the starting role with good reserve infielder Alex Cora and part-time outfielder Coco Crisp giving them rest. J.D. Drew, Kevin Youkilis, and Mike Lowell are all a threat to hit .300 this season.

The Red Sox are a good team, but in hitter-friendly Fenway Park the pitching won't carry the team like they need it to.

I predict the Red Sox will reach 88-90 wins, but a wild card at best is what they will get in the very competitive American League East.

MLB Scouting Report: New York Yankees

Gabe Simonds — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 19:54:13 -0400

The New York Yankees are more than just a combination of well-paid, old free agents and a young improving farm system.

The Yankees last year went 94-68 in the regular season. Their stars were Chien Ming-Wang with 19 wins; Mariano Rivera with 30 saves; Robinson Cano with a .306 average, 19 homers and 97 RBIs; and MVP Alex Rodriguez.

Their aging, overpriced stars include Derek Jeter, Johnny Damon, Jorge Posada, Jason Giambi, Andy Pettitte, Mike Mussina, and Bobby Abreu.

The recent graduates of their farm system are relievers Joba Chamberlain, Ian Kennedy, and Phil Hughes. All of the three could start by the end of season for the Yankees.

The New York Yankees have the perfect blend of young and old players. Two problems for the Yankees are their injuries and a lack of experience for the young guns.

Mike Mussina is an injury-prone player who now doesn't play many games. The three young pitchers, all of whom don't have a year under their belt, will have a hard time in the playoffs. Although their starters are good, their bench is not great.

I predict the Yankees will make the playoffs but exit early. Their team is good enough for about 95 wins, but they will have a bad end to the year forced by their inexperienced and injured pitchers. They will get knocked out of the playoffs in the 1st round.

The Yankees' hitting will produce like last year, but the pitching is what will bring them down in the playoffs. Chien Ming-Wang will be their only stable pitcher, as Pettitte and Mussina are frequently injured and Hughes, Kennedy, and Chamberlain are all inexperienced.

Next year they will do better. The three young guns will have more experience in their hands. The contracts of Giambi, Pettitte, Abreu, Pavano, and Farnsworth will all be up. That will free some money for C.C. Sabathia.

2008 NFL Draft: Analysis and Predictions

Gabe Simonds — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:01:56 -0400

This year's draft seems about the same as 2007 was. Just replace JaMarcus Russell with Matt Ryan, who could be a instant impact or a big bust, Joe Thomas with Jake Long, also a possible number 1 draft pick, Adrian Peterson with Darren McFadden, both showed great talent, but injuries and conduct were issues, Tedd Ginn, Jr., with Malcom Kelly, and Chris Gaines with Chris Long. That is only based on first ten picks. Only exceptions to these players are Calvin Johnson and LaRon Landry. Calvin Johnson was said to be the best wide receiver talent-wise in a long time. There is no prospect that matches him in this draft; or for that matter no prospect in the past 10 years if he lives up to potential. Landry was a good safety and the first safety available in draft is predicted late 1st round.

Other interesting notes include the Patriots missing their pick at 31st pick. Unfortunately (unless your a Patriots fan), they traded up and have the 7th draft pick. The Dolphins with the number one pick are looking to trade it. No one is accepting that offer. The reason is because recent studies shows that on average the #1 pick is worth barely more than the 10th pick yet it costs a good amount more.

The top 4 people up for being picked #1 are QB Matt Ryan, DE Chris Long, OT Jake Long, and RB Darren McFadden. Matt Ryan seems like a good option for Miami except for the inconsistency of quarterbacks picked high in history. Ryan Leaf was chosen after Peyton Manning, Tim Couch was chosen 1st ahead of Donavon McNabb, and thereafter Akili Smith. Intangibles have a lot to do with this while they may have good skills, they don't have the leadership or toughness. While this is present time not history, the Dolphins need a safe option right now. Darren McFadden, who seems to have the most talent, has conduct and little durability issues. The argument for him is his speed, but this doesn't prove anything unless he can break tackles. An example is in 2006. Reggie Bush had a 4.33 and Joseph Addai had a 3.37. Bush has since got 1,146 yards over 2 seasons while Addai has averaged a little less than that per season.

With Dolphins having a greater need at offensive line, the obvious choice is Jake Long. The Rams would then choose Chris Long as their main pick gone in Jake, Falcons would choose Matt Ryan almost unquestionably if he's open, Raiders choose McFadden, rounded out by DT Glenn Dorsey to Chiefs.

My draft predictions for the rest are:

6- DE Vernon Gholston, NYJ 7- CB Leodis McKelvin, NE 8- OT Ryan Clady, BAL 9- DT Sedrick Ellis, CIN 10- CB Aqib Talib, NO 11- WR MalcomKelly, BUF 12- LB Keith Rivers, DEN 13- OT Jeff Otah, CAR 14- OT Chris Williams 15- CB Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, DET 16- CB Mike Jenkins, ARI 17- DE Derrick Harvey, MIN 18- RB Rashard Mendenhall, HOU 19-DE Philip Merling, PHI 20- WR Devin Thomas, TB 21-WR DeSean Jackson, WAS 22- RB Jonathon Stewart, DAL 23- DT Kentwan Balmer, PIT 24- DE Calias Campbell, TEN 25- TE Dustin Keller, SEA 26- DE Lawrence Jackson, JAGs 27- OT Gosder Cherilus,SD 28-CB Justin King, DAL 29- WR Limas Sweed, SF 30- CB Brandon Flowers 31- VOID NO PICK,NE 31-(REAL ONE)- LB Dan Conner

Kansas Made Clutch Shots; Memphis Didn't

Gabe Simonds — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:05:49 -0400

I feel the Memphis Tigers truly lost this game for themselves. They made many little mistakes and let Kansas claw their way back in. They allowed a small chance for Kansas to come back, which a big mistake was considering Kansas’s excellent shooters proved a big threat. Memphis didn’t do good in the last 2 minutes on the little things.

Their first mistake came when they where up by 7 with about 1:50 left in the game. Sherron Collins stole an inbound pass and got it back soon after for an important three. The little thing came back and gave Kansas a two possession game. Kansas fouled Chris Douglas-Roberts at that point where for the only time in the 2 minute span, he did the little thing and sunk both of his free throws.

Next, with 1:23 remaining Dorsey got called for a very unnecessary and stupid blocking foul. With Chalmers at the three, just stay a good distance away and make sure he doesn’t put of a three. Dorsey ended his college career at that point and he took away a defensive and rebounding force inside. To make matter worse, Chalmers sunk both shots and Kansas was back down by 4.

For the second time in a row, Douglas-Roberts was fouled and on a one-and-one he missed the first free throw giving Kansas the ball. They ran down the length of the court, gave it to Darrel Arthur where he banked a 2 point shot. Down by 2, Kansas was as close as Memphis wanted. Douglas-Roberts again got fouled but this was on a double-bonus. He missed both shots further disappointing himself and his teammates.

But the only mistake made by Kansas in the waning minutes of the game happened and Robert Dozier, who finished with a double-double quietly, grabbed the rebound. He passed the ball, eventually making its way to freshman Derrick Rose, who if Memphis won would have probably won MOP of the Final Four, where he was hacked. Derrick Rose made 1 out of 2 shots giving a three pointer the only hope for Kansas with: 10 left remaining.

Then bench player Collins ran down the court over to the right side of the Jayhawks side. At that point he handed it off to Mario Chalmers who sunk a close-to fade away three for the tie ballgame. Not only was it almost a fade away, basically a fade away, but he had Memphis guard Rose’s hand in his face altering his shot. The shot still went in, in fact, swished to bring it into overtime.

At this point all momentum went in Kansas’s favor. Kansas jumped to a 69-63 start. That was too difficult for the Tigers to come giving Bill Self his first championship trophy and the Kansas Jayhawks their first in 20 years.

After the game John Calipari took FULL responsibility for his team’s loss saying you should never give up a seven point lead with 2 minutes remaining. That and if one more free throw was made then Memphis would be cutting the net and Self would apologizing.

Both teams look at the future and it doesn’t look good for either. Kansas knows Brandon Rush will be going to the NBA, and Chalmers could be going to the NBA and I guarantee his friend leaving will affect his decision. Also, point guard Russell Robinson, Darnell Jackson and Sasha Kaun are both seniors giving them no choice, but to leave. That leaves just Darrell Arthur, who I think has a small chance of going to the NBA, as the remaining starter on this great Kansas team. But freshman Cole Aldrich should nicely fill Jackson’s spot and Sherron Collins, who might just be the best bench player in the NCAA, will fill in Robinson’s place. If Kansas wants to be like they were this year, start by convincing Mario Chalmers to stay in Kansas, because next year won’t be the same.

I think Memphis is worse off then next year than Kansas. They will most definitely be losing Joey Dorsey who is a senior. And the chances point to Derrick Rose, super freshman point guard, going to NBA. Chris Douglas-Roberts won’t want to stay with his two friends and probably leave for NBA to as a junior. That leaves Willie Kemp taking the playing time of Rose and Taggart taking Dorsey’s. Robert Dozier and Antonio Anderson are staying filling 2 of 5 starting spots. In my opinion though, Rose provided the offense with shooting, passing, and the team went as he went which was pretty much always good. Douglas-Roberts was a key factor too always making shots when others weren’t, but with his breakdown late in the championship he might want to do it again. Of course he might think they won’t will with Rose gone, but that remains a question mark.

This will be remembered as one of the greatest finals in the history of NCAA basketball.

2008 National Signing Day: Missouri Tigers

Gabe Simonds — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 04:29:47 -0500

Before we jump on Missouri's bandwagon, let's review the rest of the NCAA on National Signing Day.

Alabama hit No. 1 in the list for the best recruiting class this year by landing three 5-star recruits and 19 4-star recruits.

Their most notable players are Julio Jones, No. 4 ranked in country, Tyler Love, No. 30 ranked, Burton Scott, No. 28 ranked, Jerrel Harris, No. 34 and Alonzo Lawrence.

Following Alabama in the rankings is Notre Dame, Florida, Miami, and Oklahoma.

The Missouri Tigers' impressive run last year started three years ago when they landed Texas recruit Chase Daniels, who got ignored by the Longhorns that year, and Chase Coffman. Last year they hit another jackpot in Jeremy Maclin, who proved to be a dangerous playmaker as a freshman last season.

With many of their top recruits as the biggest contributors, the Tigers had a dream season in 2007.

After going 10-1 with their only loss to Oklahoma, Mizzou had a Big 12 Championship invitation at hand against rival Kansas. They beat Kansas in the game and their ranking went to No. 1 in the nation. After another loss to the Sooners in the Big 12 Championship, Mizzou's national ranking fell to No. 6. After annihilating the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Cotton Bowl, they ended the year ranked No. 6.

Their impressive 2007 campaign led to a boastful recruiting class in '08. The Missouri Tigers landed one 5-star recruit in QB Blaine Gabbert, a 6’5", 226 pound gem from Parkway West, the 14th best player according to rivals.com. After not playing much his sophomore season, Gabbert threw for 1,523 yards with 20 TDs and 7 interceptions in his junior season . His senior campaign was unfortunately limited due to injuries, but appears to have a bright future in Missouri.

Mizzou also got two 4-star recruits in O-lineman Dan Hoch and tight end Andrew Jones. Dan Hoch, a 6’6", 302 pound offensive guard from Iowa, is 18th ranked in the nation for his position. Andrew Jones is a 6’5", 228 pound tight end from Smithville, Missouri and is ranked 14th in his position.

A number of 3-star recruits also signed on to play at Mizzou. The positions they add to the roster range from wideout to linebacker and are from Texas, Iowa and Missouri. A few examples are Wes Kemp and Robert Steeples from Desmet Jesuit High School in Missouri, running back Drew Temple (Tony Temple’s brother), from Rockhurst, defensive lineman Jacquies Smith from South Oak Cliff in Texas, Aldon Smith from Raytown, Missouri and linebacker George White from Harmony Prep in Ohio.

The future looks bright for Mizzou with Chase Daniels, Chase Coffman, and Jeremy Maclin all coming back for the 2008 season. Plus, to replace Tony Temple, the Tigers have running back Jimmy Jackson returning. Also, they get sophomore Denario Alexander back at wide receiver, and Sean Witherspoon and Van Alexander coming back at linebacker.

A national title is not likely for the Tigers in 2008, but they surely will have an interesting year.