Bleacher Report - Articles by Michael Phillips

With Lugo Injured, It's Lowrie's Job to Lose

Michael Phillips — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 22:15:42 -0400

The Red Sox traded away arguably one of the best shortstops in the game today in Florida’s Hanley Ramirez. After three years with the Marlins, Ramirez has totaled 79 home runs and 207 RBI’s while the Redsox have struggled to find a consistent shortstop.

After several different attempts to find a decent shortstop, Boston signed long time Dodger and Devil Ray veteran Julio Lugo.

Lugo in two seasons has been unable to stay healthy and has failed to put up a decent batting average. One of Lugo’s strengths was his ability to play defense and steal bases.

Between '07 and '08 Lugo stole 42 bases while helping the Red Sox maintain efficient defense.

Now with Lugo hurt again and potentially missing a month or more with a meniscus tear in his right knee which will require surgery opens the door for youngster Jed Lowrie.

The versatile Lowrie played 97 games as a rookie for the Red Sox last year, 49 of which were played at shortstop. Lowrie who has looked solid this spring will try to build upon a below average rookie season on offense.

Expect Lowrie to continue his strong spring play and win the starting job for the season.

WBC Showcases New Talent: Yu Darvish, Discovered

Michael Phillips — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:00:13 -0400

At last, baseball is back, and I am not talking about spring training. I am talking about the 2nd annual World Baseball Classic (WBC), which kicked off March 5 with Japan handing rival China a 4-0 loss.

On display in the 16-team tournament are some of the world's greatest baseball talents. It's a cross-world showdown for international bragging rights.

There is no continent more talent-laden than Asia. Some of the MLB’s most prominent players have come from China and Japan: Think Ichiro Suzuki of Seattle, Chien Ming-Wang of the Yankees, and Daisuke Matsuzaka of the Red Sox. And that’s just to name a few.

While watching the first game of the WBC, I saw lots of talent, but one player stood out. Japan’s Yu Darvish (who plays on Japanese pro team Nippon Ham Fighters during the regular season), a lanky and funky-delivering pitcher, is all but of 22 years old, but has an arsenal of different breaking pitches to go along with a straight-on fastball.

According to Sankei Sports (via Rotoworld), Darvish throws a low-90s fastball, but his curve ball is even more deadly. The 6'5", 180-pounder went 15-5 last season with a 1.82 ERA and 210 K.

While it appears there is currently no interest from the 22 year old to leave Japan, Americans can still drool over the potential impact he could have on a MLB club.

In my opinion, Darvish already looks better than Boston ace Matsuzaka, and that is saying something with Matsuzaka coming off a year in which he went 18-3. Expect to see more of Darvish in the future, so long as Japan keeps winning.

White Worth a Second Round Pick

Michael Phillips — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:37:18 -0500

When you think of your typical NFL quarterback, you think of players like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Kurt Warner and others with cannon like precision in their arms. West Virginia’s Patrick White is anything, but your typical NFL prototype quarterback, yet he may be one of the best to come out of the 2009 NFL Draft.

White, a tremendous athlete has looked like anything, but a future NFL quarterback and yet he has managed to turn some heads early in the year.

Perhaps when the nation was watching the most, the 6‘1”, 192-pound White performed at his best. White threw for a career high 332 yards, 3 touchdowns while completing 26 of his 32 passes. Along with showing of his arm, White did what he did best in college and rushed for 55 yards on 21 carries.

White, arguably college football’s most prolific rushing quarterback finished his Mountaineer career with 4,480 rushing yards, and 47 rushing touchdowns. While White was known for his outstanding rushing, his outstanding arm is starting to standout.

White while at West Virginia had a touchdown to interception ratio of 56/23. During the North vs. South All-Star game White’s arm helped lead the South to 35-18 victory passing for 95 yards and a touchdown along with 31 rushing yards on three carries.

Continuing his recent success, I would say White improved his NFL Draft Stock at the NFL’s Scouting Combine. White was not only the fastest quarterback at the NFL combine, but he showed a much more impressive arm than did highly touted quarterbacks Mark Sanchez and John Parker Wilson.

West Virginia’s spread option offense may have hurt White’s draft status, but should NFL team’s continue their Wildcat offense fad then perhaps White has a strong chance as an NFL quarterback rather than a wide receiver as suggested by many NFL experts.

At this point, White in my mind has the potential talent to be taken early on in the second round. Look for teams on draft day such as Chicago, New York, Kansas City and others to take White as a projected loaded with a lot of potential.

Red Sox-Yankees' Offseason Remains Competitive

Michael Phillips — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:10:54 -0500

In the long rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees there has been perhaps no greater period of competitiveness, especially in the offseason, than in the present.

Last year, Boston made it to the ALCS but came up short against Tampa Bay while the Yankees missed the playoffs for the first time in over a decade.

In spite of baseball being in its offseason, the rivalry between these two clubs never fails to heat up the dead of winter. This offseason has been no different.

While remarkably competitive, the two clubs have taken a different approach to the offseason. With some of the deepest pockets in all of sports, both the Sox and Yankees have the luxury of spending big money on baseball’s hottest free agent commodities.

Along with money, both New York and Boston have a tradition of winning behind them, making them attractive to any free agent. However, they have taken different approaches to molding their clubs over the winter.

After finishing third in the AL East and missing the playoffs, a down year by any Yankee fan's standards, New York went out and made three blockbuster signings on the free-agent market.

The economy may be in a recession, but don’t tell that to the Yankees who spent a combined $423.5 million on pitchers C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, and first baseman Mark Teixeira.

The additions of veteran arms like Sabathia and Burnett, who combined for 35 wins last year, will stabilize the Yankees pitching staff going into next season. Along with a healthy Chien-Ming-Wang, the Yankees staff should rebound superbly next season.

Meanwhile, Teixeira who hit 33 homers and drove in 121 RBI, adds another dimension to an already potent lineup, solidifying the middle of their order.

On the other hand, Boston took a much cheaper free-agent route, signing veteran pitchers Brad Penny ($5 Million), John Smoltz ($5.5 Million), and former Dodgers bullpen standout Takashi Saito. Saito is only two years removed from a career season in which he recorded 39 saves and maintained a 1.40 ERA.

The Red Sox went bargain hunting with low-risk, high-reward types of players while the Yankees brought in the best of the best. Only time will which offseason route will be more effective.

It's Time To Either Change The Pro Bowl Voting Or Do Away With The Game

Michael Phillips — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 07:24:28 -0500

In what has quickly become the biggest popularity contest in sports with no real meaning, the Pro Bowl could at least finish voting at the end of the regular season. Instead of the voting polls closing early for those who are Hawaii bound why not end the voting after week 17.There are still a handful of decisive game changing performances left in the last few weeks of the NFL season.

Notably in Week 16, Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams rushed for 108 yards and four touchdowns in a overtime loss to the Giants in the bitter cold of New York. Arguably, this year’s most underrated player, Williams leads the NFL with 20 total touchdowns, 18 of them on the ground with yet another week to play.

Now I know that if you look up the word appalling in the dictionary, you will see the Detroit Lions, but that’s no excuse to leave receiver Calvin Johnson out of the Pro Bowl. Johnson, despite playing musical chairs with the quarterback rotation is averaging nearly 18 yards a catch and has scored 10 touchdowns thus far.

If you want to talk quarterbacks then by the stats Philip Rivers should be a shoe in over Broadway Brett Favre.

However, this article is not so much about who was snubbed or I could compile a long list, but rather the process of voting is the problem. If the voting was moved farther back it would create a new opportunity for those players on the boarder line one last opportunity along with every other player.

The pro bowl should either be done right or done away with. Another thing that strikes me funny is the players who are voted into the Pro Bowl and decline to play. Yes, you risk injury, but you risk the same injury playing any amount of snaps in the preseason. Don’t play in the Pro Bowl for yourself, but rather NFL fans, especially those who take the time and money to attend the game itself.

Regardless of the so called prestige that comes with going to the Pro Bowl the NFL would be better doing away with it. Perhaps something like being named an All-American or All-Pro would be better justified.

Graham Harrell Being Robbed of Consideration for Heisman

Michael Phillips — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 05:59:33 -0500

The fact that Graham Harrell is not a candidate at tonight’s Heisman trophy presentation in New York is astounding. Both national championship opponents, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow and Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, will be first ballot contenders for this year’s top award in college football. Alongside Bradford and Tebow, who is looking to repeat as Heisman winner, is Texas quarterback Colt McCoy.

Not only was Texas Tech left out of a BCS bowl, but arguably college football’s best quarterback in Graham Harrell does not have a chance at winning the Heisman trophy.

In what turned out to be a crazy final few weeks of the college season, you can make a case for each team, so stay with me here.

McCoy’s Longhorns defeated Bradford’s Sooners 45-35 on Oct. 11, only to be upstaged by Harrell’s Red Raiders who defeated McCoy Longhorns 39-33 on Nov. 1.

Then came Bradford and Oklahoma roaring back and crushing Texas Tech and Harrell 65-21 on Nov. 22.

Then throw in Florida and Tebow’s 31-20 victory over former No. 1 Alabama and the National Championship now pits Florida against Oklahoma. Just because the Red Raiders are not in the National Championship is no reason to discredit Harrell. Last year’s Heisman winner, Tim Tebow, was not in the National Championship last year either. Still, the case can be made for all four quarterbacks.

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow threw 28 touchdowns and rushed for 12 more all while only throwing two interceptions. Impressive as Tebow’s numbers may be, they are down from last year’s 55 touchdowns which helped Tebow win his first Heisman trophy.

Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, only a sophomore, put up astonishing numbers passing for 4,464 yards, and is also leading the NCAA in passing touchdowns with 48 and a quarterback rating of 186.29 to go along with just six interceptions.

Texas quarterback Colt McCoy improved in a major way from his 2007 campaign, throwing 10 more touchdowns, 11 fewer interceptions, and leading the NCAA in completion percentage at 77.6 percent.

Texas Tech quarterback Graham Harrell led the NCAA in completions, completing for 406 passes out of 568 attempts to go along with 4,747 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions.

Now, perhaps Harrell should not be a shoe in for the Heisman, but he definitely deserves more consideration than he is getting. Harrell may not get the votes that count, but he has my vote.

NFL Week 14 Preview

Michael Phillips — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 23:23:02 -0500

Week 14

Another week, another terrible AFC West match up to endure. This time arguably the most disappointing team In the NFL, the 4-8 San Diego Chargers takes on division rival, 3-9 Oakland.

It’s hard to say what is more frustrating, watching Oakland play keep the ball away from their best player, Darren McFadden or watching the talent-led Chargers waste a promising season away. The slightly worse Chargers will pull off the win over Oakland.

San Diego defeats Oakland.

Jacksonville was embarrassed on national television Monday night after being skunked by Houston30-17. Texans rookie running back Steve Slaton made his bid for rookie of the year rushing for 130 yards, two touchdowns and also catching two passes for 52 yards. Expect Chicago rookie running back Matt Forte to do similar things in what should amount to a Chicago win.

Chicago defeats Jacksonville.

Minnesota, after convincingly beating division rival Chicago 34-14, takes on a still winless Detroit team that was destroyed last Thursday 47-10 by Tennessee. The Lions don’t have a very good passing game and what works best, Kevin Smith and the running game will find it hard to run against a stout Vikings defense. Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson will have a big game and the Lions will fall to 0-12.

Minnesota defeats Detroit.

Houston had a great win in their first ever Monday night football game, 30-17 over division rival Jacksonville. Houstongot big performances from rookie running back Steve Slaton and all-pro receiver Andre Johnson.

Houston has one problem, they travel to the "frozen tundra of Lambeau Field" to take on what is sure to be an upset Green Bay team. The Packers lost a 35-31 decision to Carolina last week and are now in a must win situation. Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers will have a big day and keep the Packers slim playoff chances alive.

Green Bay defeats Houston.

Things do not get any easier for Indianapolis who need to just win out in order to make the playoffs. The Colts should have a much easier game against hapless Cincinnati which ranks near last in every offensive category. Peyton Manning and the Colts offense will get back on track and if they don’t they won’t have to score many points to beat the Bengals.

Indianapolis defeats Cincinnati.

New Orleans after loosing to division rival Tampa Bay last week lost what slim chances they had at making the playoffs. It only gets tougher for the Saints this week as they take on rookie phenomenon Matt Ryan and the 8-4 Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta’s second ranked rush offense will plow through a shaky Saints defense and help secure their bid for a wildcard game.

Atlanta defeats New Orleans.

In what should be a very intriguing match up the dominating New York Giants take on a jekyll and hyde Philadelphia team. The Eagles scored just seven points against Baltimore in week 12 but exploded for 48 against Arizona last week. Look for the ugly side of the Eagles to show up against a stifling Giants defense.

New York Giants defeat Philadelphia Eagles.

Cleveland played the Colts tough in a 10-6 loss and gets a Tennessee team that takes pride in its smash mouth rough and tough football. With third string quarterback Ken Dorsey at the helm for Cleveland, the Titans should have another walk in the park.

Tennessee defeats Cleveland.

Miami won an ugly game 16-12 against St. Louis last week, but a win is a win and the once 1-15 Dolphins of last year are now sitting at 7-5 with a chance at the playoffs. Miami’s opponents Buffalo had such a promising start, but have gone down hill and down fast after last week loosing 10-3 to San Francisco and fell to 6-6. Miami’s running game will get back to normal and the Dolphins will win big.

Miami defeats Buffalo.

Kansas City is getting better but don’t expect them to show it this time against a Denver team that looking to seal up their season with a AFC West title. Denver stunned the previously red-hot New York Jets 34-17 Sunday and will keep on a roll against 2-10 Kansas City.

Denver defeats Kansas City.

The New York Jets got shellacked by Denver last week but expect them to rebound against San Francisco Sunday. The 49ers are progressing as the season goes on but struggle against the run, which inclines me to believe that Tomas Jones and the New York Jets will have a big day against San Francisco.

New York Jets defeat San Francisco

New England will rebound against Seattle after being hammered by the Steelers 33-10 in their own home. Matt Cassel and the New England Patriots will ease their way through a Seattle team that has taken a big step backwards this year.

New England defeats Seattle.

St. Louis cannot seem to win a game in any fundamental way and blew a lead against Miami Sunday. The Rams defense played well allowing just 16 points, but Rams quarterback Marc Bulger’s three interceptions gave the Rams no chance. St. Louis takes on a Arizona offense that is for sure to score more than 16 points in what should be a blow out victory.

Arizona defeats St. Louis.

In what should be a classic affair the 9-3 Pittsburgh Steelers take on 8-4 Dallas. The Steelers are arguably the best team in the AFC and that includes a conference with Tennessee. Dallas is getting better as they are getting healthier but the Pittsburgh defense, which has not allowed 300 total yards in a game this season, will be to much to handle.

Pittsburgh defeats Dallas.

Washington takes on a fierce Baltimore defense and it will not be pretty. Washington biggest threat in running back Clinton Portis will get roughed up by a physical Baltimoredefense. To go with that defense the under looked rookie Joe Flacco has quietly been the underlying star of the Ravens season.

Baltimore defeats Washington.

It’s Monday night football and Tampa Bay takes on Carolina in what should be a low scoring smash mouth style game. Both Tampa Bay and Carolina feature strong running games that will have to carry the load against each other. Carolina’s running game of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart will be to much for the Buccaneers to handle.

Carolina defeats Tampa Bay.

One Excited Bleacher Creature is going to see “Mike and Mike in the Morning”

Michael Phillips — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 15:24:44 -0500

Some of you may know of them and if you don’t well it’s never to late to start watching the antics of Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic on their morning radio/TV “Mike and Mike In the morning.

“Mike and Mike in the Morning” is broad casted live on ESPN2 in the early morning hours and is also on ESPN the ticket’s radio station. The duo of Greenberg and Golic has been on air for over eight years now.

Now as for what this has to do with me, well I was given tickets to go see “Mike and Mike in the Morning” Monday December 1 at the House of Blues in Houston. To top my day off, this bleacher creature is going to Monday Night football between Jacksonville and Houston.

I will be driving down to Houston around 4 am since the radio show starts at 5 am. It’s going to be a long, but fun day of sports.

A Preview of Week 13 NFL's Matchups

Michael Phillips — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 06:07:21 -0500

I would like to start by wishing everyone a great and safe Thanksgiving.

It’s Thanksgiving on Thursday and that means NFL fans get the joy of watching the 0-11 Detroit Lions take on 10-1 Tennessee Titans. The Lions have shown improvement over the past few weeks but have been unable to hold any sort of lead. The Titans high-powered running game of Chris Johnson and LenDale White will get back on track in a close win over Detroit.

Tennessee defeats Detroit.

In what should be another Thanksgiving classic, 2-9 Seattle takes on 7-4 Dallas in what will be a closer game than many may think. The Seahawks have lost their last three games by seven points or less. Dallas will have a tough challenge with the return of former Dallas Cowboy Julius Jones to his old playing grounds. The Cowboys will win a close affair, but it will not be for the weak of heart.

Dallas defeats Seattle.

In the Thanksgiving nightcap, 7-4 Arizona takes on a seemingly lethargic Philadelphia team. The Eagles are coming off a 36-7 loss to Baltimore in which starting quarterback Donovan McNabb was benched in the second half. Arizona is also coming off a loss to New York, but will rebound this week against a struggling Philadelphia team.

Arizona defeats Philadelphia.

Buffalo hung a season-high 54 points in a blowout win over Kansas City and should not have any trouble this week against San Francisco. The Bills offense behind quarterback Trent Edwards who totaled four touchdowns against Kansas City is finally showing signs of life again and should continue to do so against a dismal San Francisco team.

Buffalo defeats San Francisco.

Baltimore’s defense decimated Philadelphia last week and will have no trouble doing the same to division rival Cincinnati Sunday. More importantly for the Ravens is that rookie quarterback Joe Flacco is continuing to grow as a NFL quarterback. Flacco threw two touchdowns and no interceptions in the win over Philadelphia.

Baltimore defeats Cincinnati.

Red-hot Indianapolis who is on a four-game win streak takes on an injury -plagued Cleveland Browns team. The Colts running game may not be at its best this year, but the passing game led by Peyton Manning is beginning to regain form and will continue to do so against Cleveland Sunday.

Indianapolis defeats Cleveland.

Carolina coming off a tough loss to Atlanta travels to Green Bay to take on a Packers team that was ravaged by Saints quarterback Drew Brees last Monday. Falcons’ running back Michael Turner burned Carolina’s defense for four touchdowns last week leading me to believe Packers running back Ryan Grant will do similar things.

Green Bay defeats Carolina.

St. Louis is the epitome of a displaced team and that will be further shown when Miami comes to town. Miami running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams will have big days in a most win game if the Dolphins have hopes of making the playoffs.

Miami defeats St. Louis

In a division battle between New Orleans and Tampa Bay there is much at stake. For Tampa Bay, a chance to extend their division lead and for New Orleans, a chance to keep their post eason dreams alive. Saints quarterback Drew Brees will further display his ballot for league MVP on Sunday in an upset over Tampa Bay.

New Orleans defeats Tampa Bay.

The New York Giants, despite missing running back Brandon Jacobs for most of last weeks game, still came away victorious in Arizona and this week take on a Washington team that barely escaped with a win over Seattle. Washington running back Clinton Portis will show a rare struggle against a decimating Giants defense, while Brandon Jacobs, Ward and Bradshaw slice Washington’s defense.

New York defeats Washington.

Atlanta made what is seemingly the free agent acquisition of the year when they signed running back Michael Turner and will look to prove San Diego wrong for releasing him. Turner has helped lead the reenergized Falcons, scoring 13 touchdowns, and will continue to find the endzone in his old home of San Diego.

Atlanta defeats San Diego.

Denver is on the ropes and will take the final knockout blow from Brett Favre and the Jets Sunday when they travel to New York. Last week the Jets knocked off previously undefeated Tennessee and should have no problem against the 6-5 Broncos. The sad thing about this game is even if Denver looses they are still likely going to win a weak AFC West division.

New York defeats Denver.

Pittsburgh takes on New England in what is sure to be a November classic to remember. Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel is arguably the hottest quarterback in the league, throwing for over 400 yarrds in each of his past two games, but he is sure to get a test against the league's No. 1 defense. Pittsburgh plays gritty and tough in the cold and they bring Cassel back to reality Sunday.

Pittsburgh defeats New England.

Kansas City travels to Oakland to take on the Raiders in what figures to be one of the worst games Sunday. The best thing to do in a game like this is to watch for progress and try to enjoy it while in the process. Raiders rookie running back Darren McFadden had his best day as a pro rushing for 164 yards and a touchdown in week two against Kansas City. Expect another big day from McFadden in a Raiders win.

Oakland defeats Kansas City.

Chicago takes on division rival Minnesota in what is a must-win for both teams. Both teams will be looking to impress on a nationally televised Sunday night football game, but ultimately only one will come away with an all-important win. Minnesota’s defense is playing at a high level and will give Bears rookie running back Matt Forte troubles in a rough outing for Chicago’s offense.

Minnesota defeats Chicago.

Houston, coming off a solid win over Cleveland, hosts their first ever Monday night football game when the porous Jacksonville Jaguars come to town. Nothing seems to be going right for the Jaguars while the Texans, who are getting healthier, will pick up their second straight victory in what is sure to be in front of an amped up Houston crowd.

Houston defeats Jacksonville.

Five Things Jacksonville Needs to Do to Beat Minnesota Sunday

Michael Phillips — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:22:43 -0500

On Sunday, 4-6 Jacksonville hosts 5-5 Minnesota in what equates to a must win game for both teams.

Here are five things the Jaguars need to do to improve to 5-6.

Contain Adrian Peterson: The Vikings have the NFL’s fourth ranked rush offense thanks in large part to Adrian Peterson’s 1,100 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Peterson has rushed for 100 plus yards on six different occasions this season, Jacksonville must not let him get a seventh.

Get the ball to Jones-Drew: Jacksonville’s biggest play maker is one of the leagues smallest in the 5’7”, 208-pound running back Maurice Jones-Drew who has scored 11 touchdowns including five in the past two games. Jones-Drew is also second on the team in receptions with 31 on the year.

Protect Garrard and sack Frerotte: Jaguars quarterback David Garrard has been sacked 26 times this season behind a rough shot offensive line that is barely hanging together from week to week. Jacksonville has accumulated just 19 sacks on the year, a far cry of what was expected with the high selecting of rookies defensive ends Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves in last Aprils draft.

Don’t underestimate Minnesota’s’ receiving core: Vikings speed burner Bernard Berrian has showed plenty of deep threat ability averaging 20.2 yards per catch this season, don’t let him beat you. Former Giants tight end Visanthe Shiancoe is underrated and if he had a better quarterback, his four touchdowns would be double that amount. Jacksonville’s secondary must play better then they did last week against the Titans.

Find a receiver: With questions surrounding Jaguars leading receiver Matt Jones about injuries and suspension some one has to step up. Former first round pick tight end Marcedes Lewis has big play potential, but has struggled with drops this season. Now is a good time to instill some confidence in the 6’6” Lewis with some red zone scoring opportunities.

Titans-Jaguars: Kerry Collins' Three Second-Half Touchdowns Dooms Jags

Michael Phillips — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 14:39:30 -0500

Titans remain undefeated thanks to three second-half touchdowns from Kerry Collins.

Tennessee quarterback Kerry Collins threw three second-half touchdowns as the Titans rallied to beat division rival Jacksonville 24-14 and stay perfect at 10-0. Now at 4-6, Jacksonville’s playoff chances are even bleaker and the schedule doesn’t light up from here on out.

The Good

Jacksonville ran the ball and played ball control football with running backs Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew. The fact that Jones-Drew had 17 carries and three receptions can only add to the productivity of the Jaguars offense.

Jones-Drew finished with 66 yards and two touchdowns while Taylor gained 58 yards on 12 carries.

Jacksonville’s young linebackers Justin Durant and Daryl Smith are making the most of their opportunities. Don’t let Durant’s six tackles mislead you; he was all over field against the Titans, as was his partner in crime Daryl Smith.

The decision of Head Coach Jack Del Rio to bench veteran linebacker Mike Peterson is one of the best decisions he has made all year.

Rookie kick returner Brian Witherspoon played perhaps his best game of the season, giving Jacksonville great field position on punt returns, including a 31-yard punt return towards the end of the half that set up a Jones-Drew touchdown.

Jacksonville’s run defense didn’t allow Tennessee’s running backs LenDale White or Chris Johnson a gain of over 20 yards. The defense was quick to the ball and held White and Johnson in check most of the game.

The Bad

Blowing a 14-3 lead was arguably the hardest part of this game to watch. Jacksonville’s offense went into hiding in the second half and the defense lost its intensity.

Corner Brian Williams often looked lost in coverage, including on the game-deciding touchdown pass from Kerry Collins to Justin Gage.

Jacksonville’s defensive line got decent pressure but not nearly enough to rattle Collins into any bad throws. Several of Tennessee’s incompletions came on drop passes by receivers and tail backs.

Without receiver Matt Jones, the Jaguars' pass offense is extremely inefficient. Quarterback David Garrard looked out of sink in the second half finishing 13 of 30 for 135 yards and an interception. To make matters worse, Jacksonville has no deep threat receiver, and that was further proven against Tennessee.

The Jaguars did set a record in the loss though with punter Adam Podlesh punting the ball away 10 times.

Next week, Jacksonville takes on 5-5 Minnesota, while Tennessee looks to remain undefeated when they take on Bret Favre and the New York Jets.

UCLA’s Own Version of the “Fab Five” Is Here, and Ready to Roll

Michael Phillips — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 10:52:19 -0500

The return of basketball is here and so are the UCLA Bruins, who are looking for their fourth consecutive Final Four appearance under Head Coach Ben Howland.

Although the North Carolina Tar Heels are early season favorites with Tyler Hansbrough anchoring the boards, do not count out the young Bruins.

This season's squad is their youngest team in years and that can translate into early growing pains, despite being ranked No. 4 on the AP poll.

Over the past years, players like Jordan Farmar, Aaron Afflalo, Russell Westbrook and Kevin Love have all left their lasting impressions on the UCLA hardwood.

At the beginning of last year, after another Final Four appearance the year before, I said to myself that UCLA, with the addition of then freshman Kevin Love, had their best chance at a national championship. That dream ended last April with a 78-63 defeat to the Memphis Tigers. This year, the Final Four looks even more difficult to reach.

In the NBA draft, UCLA lost their best big man in a long time in Kevin Love, defensive star Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, and the dangerous shooting wingman Russell Westbrook.

The 6'10" former UCLA forward Love, usually averaged a double-double per game during his one season UCLA while Mbah a Moute wreaked havoc on defense. Westbrook, then a sophomore, quickly became an explosive scorer.

Thanks to a great draft class, the Bruins will have a shot at another Final Four, but it could also be there downfall. They have experienced veterans, All-American Darren Collison at point guard, the arc man in Michael Roll, and Alfred Aboya with James Keefe will have to work fast to get what could be the next “Fab Five” ready to roll.

UCLA Freshman Shooting Guard Jrue Holiday, Guard Malcolm Lee, Guard Jerime Anderson, 6'10" J’Mison Morgan, and Drew Gordon are perhaps the best overall freshman class to enter UCLA in the past 20 years.

They all must learn fast if UCLA is to have any chance at making another Final Four appearance, and much less a national championship.

UCLA kicked off their season with wins over the Prairie View A&M Panthers and the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks. The five freshmen have gotten off to some what of a slow start, but at the same time, showed flashes of talent.

Forward Drew Gordon scored six points and brought down eight rebounds in game one, while guard Malcolm Lee scored 12 points in.

Veterans Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, and Michael Roll combined for 41 of the Bruins' points in a narrow 64-59 victory over Miami (Ohio).

Look for the “new fab five” to step up and keep UCLA in the national championship race, and as the season gets tougher, so will these five freshmen.

An Inside Look at Week 11 of the NFL, Game by Game with Michael Phillips.

Michael Phillips — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:43:48 -0500

Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan should have a field day when he meets Denver’s 28th ranked pass defense Sunday. Atlanta’s immaculate rookie quarterback has led them a 6-3 record. The Broncos only chance of winning comes if quarterback Jay Cutler can get on rhythm and out score the Falcons, something I just do not see happening.

Atlanta defeats Denver.

Many expected Detroit to pick up there first win of the season last week against Jacksonville, but they did not, and there is no reason to think they will this week either when they take on Carolina. Look for the Panthers defense to give the Lions offense troubles all game long.

Carolina defeats Detroit.

The Cincinnati Bengals finally won a game when they defeated Jacksonville 21-19 two week ago, but do not expect them to pickup a second win Sunday against Philadelphia. Look for Philadelphia to be upset after there narrow loss to division rival New York and to take out their frustrations mercifully on Cincinnati.

Philadelphia defeats Cincinnati.

When the match up of Kansas City and New Orleans comes to mind, it brings the thought of another brutal Chiefs loss. However, this Chiefs team is playing with a spark and are better than there record shows with young Tyler Thigpen at quarterback. The downside for Kansas City is that they are against an explosive New Orleans offense that will be too much for the KC’s defense to handle.

New Orleans defeats Kansas City.

Expect a lot of hard hits and bloodied noses when the Ravens meet the Giants Sunday. While Baltimore has the leagues number two defense, perhaps it is the offense that is most impressive averaging 33.5 points per game over the past four games. The problem Baltimore faces is the Giants bruising defense, which will give Ravens rookie quarterback Joe Flacco problems all game long.

New York Giants defeat Baltimore.

Tampa Bay meets Minnesota in a crucial game for both teams, Minnesota who has a chance at NFC North division lead and Tampa Bay who is looking to keep in playoff range. Expect a big game from Vikings running back Adrian Peterson in a low scoring physical battle.

Minnesota defeats Tampa Bay.

At 5-4, the upstart Miami Dolphins has a chance at the playoffs this year and should push farther toward that reality against Oakland Sunday. Yep, I said Dolphins and playoffs in the same sentence thanks to a strong defense, accurate running game and bullying running game. Look for Miami running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams to run wild against Oakland.

Miami defeats Oakland.

Green Bay could catch a cold before they could a win as of late. Chicago on the other hand is in control of the NFC North division. If quarterback Kyle Orton returns to Chicago this week then expect a big day from the Bears offense against a suspect Green Bay defense. Look for another big game from versatile Chicago rookie Matt Forte in a Bears win.

Chicago defeats Green Bay.

Indianapolis is getting hot at the right time and take on a injured Texans team which they should defeat much easier the second time around. Do not expect the Colts to have to make any miracle comeback against the Texans Sunday. Still with out quarterback Matt Schaub look for Peyton Manning and the Colts offense to easily out score Houston all game long.

Indianapolis defeats Houston.

Oh, the utter sadness that is the NFC West division. This week NFL fans get the treasure of watching 2-7 San Francisco take on 2-7 St. Louis. Look for the winner to be determined by the running game of St. Louis Steven Jackson and San Francisco’s Frank Gore. Look for the 49ers to pick up a rare win, but nonetheless the win and some progress in the process.

San Francisco defeats St. Louis.

It is amazing that a team with six wins has no doubt secured their own division title, but that just what the 6-3 Arizona Cardinals have done. There is no way they are going to loose the NFC West title with the next best team sitting at 2-7. Look for Arizona to get a tougher Seattle team than many have seen this season thanks to the return of some key players, but don’t in the least expect a Seahawks win.

Arizona defeats Seattle.

In my upset of the week, I am taking the 4-5 Jacksonville Jaguars to upset the 9-0 Tennessee Titans. As good as the Titans have been, they struggled against a Chicago team without there starting quarterback and were shutdown on the ground. Now, quarterback Kerry Collins was no doubt solid, but looks for Jacksonville secondary to wake up and give him a tough challenge. If the Jags can establish a ground game and keep Tennessee off the field then Jacksonville will take home the win. Expect a big game from Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew.

Jacksonville defeats Tennessee.

After nearly being upset by the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday, San Diego will be in for a rough time when they take on a Pittsburgh team that looks hungry for a win. Expect a big game from Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and a Pittsburgh defense that will give Chargers running back Ladainian Tomlinson troubles all game long.

In week four, Washington defeated Dallas 26-24 in what at the time seemed like an upset but now, I would expect the Redskins to complete the sweep of division rival Dallas on Sunday. Look for the Cowboys to play much better than they have in the past few weeks, but in the end Washington running back Clinton Portis and the offense will be to much for Dallas to handle.

Washington defeats Dallas.

The Monday night match up features 5-4 Buffalo at Brady Quinn’s 3-6 Cleveland Browns. Look for a big game from Brady Quinn, but Buffalo will prevail and improve their home record to 4-1 on the season. Look for a rebound game from Buffalo quarterback Trent Edwards and the Bills offense.

Buffalo defeats Cleveland.