Bleacher Report - Articles by Pete McKeown

Where's the Beef? At a Wiffleball Tournament, That's Where

Pete McKeown — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:37:25 -0400

There are few events that get me excited to the point of celebrating. Road trips comes to mind. So do tailgates or even Deadliest Catch marathons. However, there are few things that can rival the anticipation one feels when heading into a charity Wiffleball Tournament.

Last year, I had the privilege to be asked to play in one, with a bunch of friends from high school on one of the best wiffleball teams in the Northeast, The Boston Beef. We're kind of a big deal, not your ordinary group of whiffle ball players.

This is no ordinary wiffleball tournament either. The fields? Replicas of Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. The home-run derby pitcher? Bill "The Spaceman" Lee of Red Sox lore. Not to mention the fact that there are two dozen teams vying for the championship and enough competitive energy to rival any Olympic competition.

As a newcomer, these were the things that jumped out at me.

Now, a year removed from my initial experience, I have even more excitement and nervous anticipation. Sure, I'm ecstatic to put yellow plastic on white plastic and see my jacks clear the mini Green Monster, and to have a chance to talk shop with Bill Lee about the best wiffleball pitches to turn on.

Who in their right mind wouldn't?

Now, I know better. The fields and competition are perks of an event that has a much larger meaning, a greater importance than trivial games. It's a charity wiffleball tournament, and it wasn't until I saw how much this meant to those in need that I realized how important this event really is.

The charity this tournament benefits is called The Travis Roy Foundation. For those of you who don't know him, Travis was an elite hockey player who once reached the pinnacle of college hockey by getting a scholarship to play for the Boston University Terriers under legendary coach Jack Parker.

It'd be like playing basketball under coach K at Duke, and it couldn't have gone to a more deserving or hard-working player.

Unfortunately, tragedy struck Travis, as he went head first into the boards eleven seconds into the first shift of his BU career, paralyzing him from the neck down. Imagine for a moment going from being an unbelievably talented athlete to not being able to walk.

I can't even fathom the difficult times that must have followed such misfortune, but Travis didn't waste his time feeling sorry for himself, rather, he became a beacon of hope for all people with traumatic spinal cord injuries, showing a never-say-die spirit with his steadfast determination to not accept this as the defining moment of his life.

This tournament is a testament to that spirit, to show that there are others who can and will help. People who have these injuries are faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, whether it be getting the money for necessary equipment or the will power to stay positive and live each day without the ability to walk, something that can't fully be comprehended until it's taken away from you.

The money we raise has a direct effect on people's lives, offering grants to people in need of the basic equipment to live a proper life. For instance, $4,125 went to a 4-year-old girl in Vermont, for an electronic page turner, so she can learn to read. $1,000 can buy a portable ramp. $5,000 can buy a much needed new wheelchair.

I went against my better judgement by writing this article, because I don't want this to seem like a public service announcement, like a Sally Struthers infomercial asking for money to help children in Africa.

However, it doesn't matter what I think. This event, and all fundraisers like this for any number of good causes, are greater than any one person.

I didn't realize it when I started that it would be the charity and good will that gave me the excitement over playing competitive wiffleball for an entire weekend, but that's what happened. Sure, the Boston Beef will go into this tournament with every intention of winning with our play, but more importantly, we want to be the team that raises the most money.

So if you'd like to put some of your hard-earned money towards this charity, you can do so by clicking here, choose "Boston Beef" and help a group of people who need it.

I wouldn't normally solicit in a forum such as this, and if you don't want to give, that's fine too. I just wanted to give you the opportunity, as it has made me realize how great it can feel to help out a good cause; though, I have to admit, winning the tournament would feel pretty great too.

The 2007 New England Patriots: 35 Seconds From Perfection

Pete McKeown — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:14:03 -0400

I'm the youngest of three boys.

Known as the "baby Jesus," a term coined by my brothers, they always assumed I was the favorite due to the unusually large portions of presents found underneath the Christmas tree every year. It's been a funny joke for every Christmas however, there is no way my parents played favorites.

How can you choose a favorite son?

Well, that's how I feel about picking my favorite New England Patriots' team.

The 2001 bunch changed my life, shocking the Rams for my first ever Boston championship, which was—without a doubt—the most exciting moment as a sports fan.

The 2003 team was equally exciting because it proved it wasn't a fluke in winning another Super Bowl, and it showed the type of dominance associated with the late 90's Yankees or Jordan's Bulls.

The 2004 Pats cemented the status of "Best Team of the Decade" and this was the first time I went into a season absolutely knowing my team would be the last one standing...and they were.

Over the course of those seasons, my whole outlook as a Boston sports fan turned from hoping my team would make the playoffs to expecting greatness.

Unfortunately, the next two years ended in absurdly frustrating fashion, with a playoff loss to Denver where Ben Watson knocked the ball out of Champ Bailey's hands through the end zone for a touchback. And the following year to Indy—Troy Brown's missed third down conversion still haunts my dreams.

Then came my all-time favorite team—the 2007 New England Patriots.

It would seem to go against all conventional wisdom to pick a team that dominated every game except the only one that really mattered, but this was the best team I have ever seen in any sport.

My favorite season? 2001 and there's not even a close second.

But when it comes to teams, I don't think I will ever see a team as dominant as the 18-1 Patriots.

They were a Super Bowl caliber team before this season. Then they decided to add Randy Moss and Wes Welker, giving Tom Brady his first weapons of mass destruction. Everyone in the league knew this was going to be a team to be reckoned with, but nobody realized just how dominant they were going to be.

The first game of the season against the New York Jets was the catalyst for the play of Belichick's squad, as they went on to win by 24 points. They were accused of taping signals illegally which caused a firestorm of anti-New England sentiment.

You may know it as "Spygate," a term which means next to nothing to me, but seems to be the be-all-end-all for everyone else—the justification for our dominance to those who think the Pats were average without those tapes.

For a team that has never needed bulletin board material, this incident sparked a fire under an already unbelievable team. From this point on, they went into each game with absolute resolve to leave no doubt.

Through the first eight games, they never scored less than 34 points and their closest contest was a victory by 17 over the Cleveland Browns.

In that stretch, they beat the supposedly vaunted Cowboys by 21, the Redskins by 45, and at no point were ever even close to challenged in an NFL that supposedly had more parity than any other professional league.

Whispers of a perfect season began to permeate throughout the NFL, especially after a closely fought win over Indianapolis, kicking off the second half of the season with their toughest opponent and first tough game. They were tested multiple times down the stretch, with three wins over the Eagles, Ravens and Giants that most likely should have been losses—yet they continued to get it done when it mattered.

By season's end, Tom Brady had put together the best season by any QB in NFL history. Throwing for 4,806 yards with a record 50 TD passes and an anemic eight interceptions. His rating was 117.2, and for those who doubted his ability to compete with Peyton Manning regarding stats ate a nice helping of humble pie.

Randy Moss lived up to the billing, with 98 catches for 1,493 yards and a league record 23 TD catches.

Wes Welker, a seemingly discarded member of the Dolphins, caught 112 passes for 1,175 yards and 8 TD's, making him one of the most productive slot receivers in history.

The bottom line is that the Patriots didn't just go undefeated, they annihilated the competition unlike any team before them.

Their achievements had been questioned and neigh-sayers across the country wanted an asterisk next to their championships due to the ridiculously overplayed Spygate saga, and what do they do? Go 16-0.

That is why they are my favorite team of all time.

Unfortunately for me, this story has a tragically painful ending, as the Patriots ended up losing to the Giants in the Super Bowl. They had a perfect season until 35 seconds remained, but that's all it took to topple what would have been the greatest season by any team in NFL history.

Their season of winning by large margins was eventually the thing that probably did them in. They relied too heavily on their offense and ability to put up inordinate amounts of points, and moved away from stalwart defense and ball control.

The Giants put a ton pressure on Brady and, when they couldn't adjust, it turned into a dogfight that either team could win. If the Patriots played the G-men 10 times, I'd guess they would have won eight of the games, but that and a couple of bucks will get you a cup of coffee.

People will disagree with me, and that's fine, but this was the best team ever to play in the NFL.

They don't have the hardware to show for it, which is what matters, but it doesn't change my feelings. They came as close to true perfection as a team can come before falling short.

This was my favorite group of Patriots...that is, of course, unless they go 19-0 in 2009.

Manny Being...Womanly?

Pete McKeown — Thu, 07 May 2009 23:49:08 -0400

Manny? Really? I’m not going to sit here and lie to any of you, I ABSOLUTELY used to love Manny Ramirez.

He won two championships for the Red Sox, and, let’s be honest, his antics always entertained, as they were seemingly harmless and comedic acts done by a savant who could flat out hit a baseball.

It wasn’t until his final year with the Sox that I realized how much of a poison he could be. He was no longer the sheepish and goofy professional hitter. Yeah, he could still murder a baseball, but his immaturity and selfishness were the new emotions, and his act was killing the team.

He threw a senior citizen to the ground over tickets. He showed he could stop trying by looking at three straight against Rivera. Literally, just stared at three fastballs down the middle, not even a flinch.

Once he started straight up threatening the Sox with his unhappiness in Boston, I cut ties.

I fondly remember the good years, but Manny post-2007 is someone I am done with. Thanks for the memories, but I’m like that crazy gypsy in that Stephen King book who curses a guy to get Thinner. I wanted him to fail, to be shown for the child that he is.

Little did I realize that my curse would finally affect Manny.

I wished him to be lazier and more selfish than ever before. I was hoping that over the course of the season, he’d take off at least 50 games. I just didn’t expect it to happen all at once, for something like a banned substance.

He’s now tainted goods. One of them. Painted with the same ‘roid brush as Bonds, McGwire, Sosa or A-Rod.

In one way, it sucks, because it means he had to have done steroids in the Sox championship seasons, but that whole era of baseball has changed because it seems that anyone and everyone could have been using. I still love those titles, believe me, but I'm not shocked by any new name added to the list.

I just think it’s poetic justice that Manny is finally reaping what he sowed, though I figured it’d be something like his lack of respect for teammates, or getting caught smoking some LA medicinal marijuana in the outfield, but not performance enhancers.

The funniest aspect about the entire thing is the manner in which he was caught.

Manny took hCG, a female fertility drug that is a common substance used at the end of a steroid cycle to help your body produce testosterone again. Instead of owning up, he said it was something for personal use, alluding that it wouldn’t be steroids.

The only real way that hCG could help someone personally, is if they suffer severely from erectile dysfunction. You know it’s a bad situation when your out card is telling the word you can’t get it up.

It is unbelievable payback, and I think Manny could be the next Rafael Palmeiro. Not because of the steroids, but because Viagra may need a new pitchman. I mean, he’s now a walking punch line, only people are laughing at him.

Now he has to conform, or he’s out the door. Either way, I’m sitting here with a smile on my face, because he’s finally not in control just because he’s “gifted”. I wish karma worked this well all the time.

Check out this and other articles pertaining to Boston at Hub of Champions.

A Kentucky Derby To Remember

Pete McKeown — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:45:18 -0400

Last year for the Kentucky Derby, I made the road trip from Boston to Louisville to partake in the Derby madness at Churchill Downs.

To be honest, it felt more like a bachelor party than a sporting event.

Strip clubs, bar crawls, tailgating—the last thing on my mind was a horse race.

They say that the Kentucky Derby is the most exciting two minutes in sports, but actually attending it was more like the drunkest two days in sports. For someone from Boston, a city that is chock-full of people who love to crush beers at sporting events and bet on anything from horse races, to dog races, to who will sing the national anthem at next year’s Super Bowl, attending the Derby at Churchill Downs should be on any Bostonian’s bucket list.

The only thing I actually remember from the day of the race was double-fisting mint juleps, seeing the horses sprint by turn three for a total of four seconds, and hearing the sad news that 8 Bells had to be euthanized right after the race.

Other than that, I might as well have been at Suffolk Downs, because watching the Derby from the infield isn’t for those who enjoy watching the races, but rather for drinking during them.

This year, I had a much different experience. I was able to watch the race on TV, actually seeing it from start to finish, and I am very glad I had the chance to do so.

The most exciting two minutes in sports certainly lived up to its billing, as Mine That Bird stole the show and ran an astounding race.

Watching the 50-1 long shot go from 15th to first in a matter of seconds, weaving in and out of the horses and finally making its move on the rail was something truly special to watch.

Will Mine That Bird make a run at the Triple Crown? Probably not. But that’s not the point. The point is, those of us who watched the race had the pleasure of being genuinely surprised at the outcome. I didn’t hear too many people predicting a win, place or show for Mine That Bird, but I’m sure those who did are still counting their winnings.

I liken this year’s race to the upsets in the college basketball tournament. Sometimes, underdogs can steal the show, and those are the best times to be a fan of the sport. More often than not, the favorite will win, and that can be great as it is exciting to watch a team or horse at the top of their game, blowing away the competition. But every now and then, you can be surprised, and that’s what makes events like these so fun to watch.

Sure, there is no substitute for actually attending the Derby, as it is a weekend-long soiree with Southern Belles and coolers stocked with beers, but I can say I am glad I was able to watch this year’s derby on TV.

Otherwise, I would have missed out on Mine That Bird’s amazing finish—or seeing its jockey celebrating like a madman and his distinct resemblance to Gollum from The Lord of the Rings.

Now, we all get to share the excitement heading into the Preakness. There hasn’t been a Triple Crown winner for quite some time, and for Mine That Bird, the path is cluttered with potential missteps and long odds for winning.

However, until the race is done, there is still a chance.

Whether it be 50-1 or 10-1, as an underdog or the favorite, Mine That Bird will get its say at the Preakness post time, and I for one, will make sure to catch it on TV.

Going to Baltimore would undoubtedly be a great experience, but I can still watch it double-fisted from Boston, and you better believe I’ll be keeping an eye on the rail for another Mine That Bird performance.

This article can also be found on Hubofchampions.com, a Boston Blog.

Fans Today Deserve a Better Class of Athlete—Accept No "Substitutes"

Pete McKeown — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 22:08:34 -0400

With the recent news of Jay Cutler being unsatisfied in Denver and Manny just being himself, it made me think back to some of the jobs that I’ve had in the past—you know, the ones that weren’t necessarily your typical “dream jobs.”

Little do famous athletes know that despite the glamour in some jobs, there are more than enough things in any given job that can make a given person happy.

And truthfully, I have been in some pretty bad occupational circumstances throughout my life, so I know a thing or two about hating one's job.

I stocked meat and milk in a gigantic freezer for a deli, while swiping rogue pieces of chicken cutlet from the kitchen.

When I was in middle school, I was an item compartmentalizer and carriage wrangler at Wild Oats supermarket. Needless to say, I now have such a deep-rooted hatred for any grocery store that is considered "organic,” and I will never fully understand the justification behind having tofu be the main part of a diet.

I even spent many a summer landscaping, riding under the sun on one of those powerful lawn mowers that you stand behind on a platform. Pretty badass, I know.

Of all my professional endeavors, however, being a substitute teacher has been the most entertaining. It's a very difficult job, and I make about as much as Starr Jones would as a stripper, but it allows me to reminisce about the great aspects of being in elementary school.

First off, the diet of a first grader is far superior to that of a 20-something. Two words: snack time. "Those tasty Lucky Charms for breakfast are wearing off, ugh, I could really go for a snack. Oh, wait, just 10 minutes until snack fest '09."

Each day would go by a little easier with the mid-morning promise of a coveted string cheese, washed down by a true nectar of the gods, an Ecto-Cooler Juice box.

Lunchtime? How about a PB & J with a helping of Nacho Cheesier Doritos, some sort of fruit to trade for a Snack Pack pudding and a delectable Nesquik? The world would be a much simpler place if everyone abides by these simple culinary choices.

As far as entertainment goes, PlayStation 2 and Xbox are great for playing video games, but there is no better experience than Number Munchers or Oregon Trail. I hate math, but there's no way I'm going to let my Muncher get eaten by a cannibalistic Troggle just because I don't know my prime numbers. How could I nap with that on my conscience?

Oregon Trail was an especially compelling experience. The point of the game is to follow the Oregon Trail, fording rivers, trading with locals, gathering food...a true lesson in survival on the great American Frontier.

Unfortunately, I would spend nearly all of my time hunting bison, deer or squirrels—and spending all my money on ammo rather than medicine—that my entire traveling party would die relatively horrific deaths.

Apparently, typhoid fever, cholera, and dysentery were running rampant, and periodic drowning while fording rivers and fatal snakebites were mere happenstance, leaving my Oregon Trail littered with graves that had epitaphs reading something like this: "Here lies buttface. Beloved brother and craphead."

One part of elementary school that will forever be remembered fondly is gym and recess. I'm not going to sit here and lie to any of you: I was, and still am, a phenomenally talented schoolyard athlete.

I was the Manny Ramirez of stick ball, the David Beckham of kickball, and the Patches O'Hoolihan of dodgeball. I ruled the asphalt arena with an iron fist, each game a Darwinian test of ability.

As a gym teacher, I sometimes felt the need to get back those glory days and participate in the games if the kids seemed tough enough. Now I know when you play with children, you're supposed to let them win. But that's a loser's rule.

No mercy, teacher or not, or they won't learn valuable first grade lessons of sacrifice and teamwork. How can a class of seven-year-olds possibly respect a gym teacher who doesn't have top-notch arm velocity or catlike reflexes?

The only concern I should have is my throwing mechanics, because a dodgeball sent careening at a child's dome isn't good for anyone (due to the obvious injury factor, and the fact that headhunting is illegal and I'd have to sit out, a rookie move). Too bad "Dodgeball super-stud" isn't a résumé booster.

With all this said, I don't think I want to pursue a career in teaching at this point. The job of being a full-time teacher is much more draining and taxing than people give it credit for.

It involves molding and corralling the minds of tomorrow's youth, and the money is not nearly enough to entice me at this stage in my life, but that doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy it while I do it.

Besides, children need a strong, respectable role model, not some college grad who doesn't shave and races off to "happy hour" on Friday the second the last bell sounds.

My point here is that even in jobs like this that don’t pay well or garner fanfare, you can still find hope and positives with whatever it is you choose to do, even if it’s not the most ideal situation.

The people who teach do so because they love to do it, and there aren’t too many professions more important than the role of a teacher, as they serve as role models for the future generations of our country. It’d be easy to find some negatives in this kind of work, but I find it difficult to look at the work so pessimistically when there are so many good things I can think of; which brings me back to my opening statement.

People like Jay Cutler or Manny Ramirez seem to have forgotten the country that they play for and entertain. They are, whether they like it or not, role models for millions of people around this country. They are paid very handsomely for this burden, and are able to play GAMES that they love for a hefty paycheck.

Think about that...they play for money. It’s really difficult for me to relate to someone who has this privilege and takes it for granted by publicly complaining about money or “respect.”

Sorry Manny, I don’t feel bad you’re not making the extra millions on top of your already great fortune.

Sorry Jay Cutler, I don’t feel bad that your new coach thought of you as a trading piece. Get over it.

Sure, these guys have a right to feel slighted, that’s completely understandable. But they do not have a right to share that with a country of people who are struggling economically and would give an appendage just to get a cup of coffee in a pro sport.

They come off as whiny, pampered stars who wouldn’t think twice about our problems, so why should we worry about theirs?

Not that it matters, I don’t have time to worry—it’s ten minutes until fourth grade gets here, and I still haven’t properly warmed up my throwing arm for Dodgeball.

After all, I have to be a role model to these children—I don’t whine when I don’t get paid for being picked first.

Spring Training: A Cure for My MLB Blues

Pete McKeown — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 23:32:44 -0400

Baseball has had a rough couple of months. Heck, it’s been a rough couple of years. For the first time in a long while, I found myself going into a season with little or no excitement.

After all, the only news that has had any staying power revolves around the game’s best player doing steroids, Manny being Manny, a commissioner who may or may not be as corrupt as Richard Nixon and a looming list of 103 tainted players hanging over our heads.

That being said, it's ironic that this is the first year I’ve had the privilege to go to spring training in Florida, and, to be honest, I was more excited for the weather than the Sox game I was to attend.

Sad, I know, but I thought with Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz, and Co. off at the World Baseball Classic, it would just be a Double-A amateur fest.

Looking back at that mentality, I am upset that I let the pessimism get the best of me, as a trip to spring training would normally be my equivalent of a Vegas Elvis making an inaugural trip to Graceland.

I vacationed in Clearwater, which is on the Gulf Coast, home of the spring training facility for the defending champion Philadelphia Phillies, but the game I was to attend was a three-and-a-half-hour trek to Jupiter, where my Sox were taking on the St. Louis Cardinals.

Had the pitching matchup not been Josh Beckett and Chris Carpenter, there’s a very solid chance I would have just succumbed to my hangover and slept in rather than making a road trip to see a minor league scrimmage.

I figured I would regret the decision to go, wasting a perfect, cloudless, 80-degree day in a car, a Honda Civic rental no less, possibly the only car at the Tampa Airport Enterprise that didn’t have a sunroof.

When I finally arrived in Jupiter, stuck to my seat and sun-burnt only on my left arm and the left side of my face, I was able to see that the trip was worth it. The place was packed.

Even in Florida, the Sox still fill the house, with a record-setting day for attendance at yet another team’s field.

Walking into the ballpark, surrounded by a sea of Sox and Cards’ jerseys, I realized just how wrong I was to have been so down on the sport that has been a pillar in my life.

The sights and sounds of the ballpark gave me a new hope for this season, things that are easily forgotten but become so much more apparent once you’re there to see it.

Like watching Justin Masterson sign literally hundreds of autographs, or Beckett looking very sharp and more fit than he’s ever looked.

Or a web gem by John Jay, a Cardinal’s minor leaguer, about four seconds after I made fun of his name with a nerdy joke about the Continental Congress, or Julio Lugo’s penchant for adjusting his cup as if it were filled with Icy Hot.

Or things like the taste of a cold ballpark beer on a hot day and seeing people scramble out of the way of foul balls, but never at the expense of the Bud Light in their hands.

But, most of all, I remember the adults and children alike, crowding around the bullpen, hoping to get any autograph, or seeing entire families rocking Sox gear, sun-burnt but ecstatic to take in a game.

It’s easy to forget what this game means and has meant to our country. It’s America’s pastime, a game of fathers and sons that has been the glue for so many relationships.

I thought back to countless nights of twilight batting practice, with my dad, arm hanging, rearing back for another bucket because I still had a loop in my swing.

Or watching Field of Dreams for the 20th time, and still getting misty-eyed when Ray asks his dad for a game of catch.

Or sneaking into Game One of the 2004 World Series on the Green Monster, standing a mere 10 feet from Tom Hanks and Jimmy Fallon as fans and celebrities alike belt out “Sweet Caroline” in the middle of the eighth.

It didn’t matter that all my favorite Sox were playing elsewhere, or that my hometown nine lost on a walk-off homer. No, all that mattered was that there was Red Sox baseball being played, and I was there to watch it. It was fantastic, and an experience that I’ll always remember and hopefully repeat at some point in my life.

No longer will I focus on the negatives that have permeated the psyche of all baseball fans. Steroids, Manny’s selfish saga, Selig’s exorbitant salary; these are all things that are now pushed to the back of my mind.

Now, my concerns are about the state of the Sox’ rotation, J.D. Drew’s health issues, Ortiz surviving without Manny, a packed AL East, and whether or not I can convince my dad who works security at Fenway to risk his job and sneak me into every home game (just kidding to anyone who works there...kind of).

It’s unfortunate that it took a trip to spring training to cure my baseball blues, but sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures. I am certainly not looking forward to the cold of Boston or the wintry mix of a Massachusetts March.

However, Opening Day is about three weeks away, and I couldn’t be more excited.

It’s time for baseball, America’s pastime, and I, for one, am ready for the two sweetest words in the English language.

“Play Ball.”

To an Athlete Dying Young

Pete McKeown — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 02:07:52 -0500

In high school, I never played football. It is still one of my biggest regrets to this day. I was always small growing up, so soccer seemed like the natural choice for my skill set.

By the time high school came around, I had to make a choice; risk being a tackling dummy for a sport I loved to watch but never played competitively, or play varsity soccer and basically use it as conditioning for hockey.

I chose the latter, and don't get me wrong, I had an unbelievable experience playing soccer at my high school.

The coaches were as good as I've ever had, but my heart was never in the sport. I was the semi-joke who could cover anyone, but had bricks for feet when dribbling.

On Saturdays, our games coincided with the football team's matchups, and the fields would be absolutely packed, as they were close to each other.

Our soccer team was a damn good draw, making the NE tournament multiple times in my tenure, but it was the football team that garnered the most attention and one star player in particular.

My friend Darren was an unbelievable running back, cornerback, and kick returner. He defined agility, and his No. 21 became his calling card. Odds are, if you were an opponent, you got to see the back of that jersey enough to have it memorized.

His senior year was ridiculous. He put up seven touchdowns—in one game—and this wasn't against the Perkins School for the Blind, it was a league game, and a huge one at that.

I can still remember watching (from my cozy view from the bench), as Darren ripped off huge run after huge run, and thinking to myself how fun it would have been to be a part of that.

Darren went on to have a historic season. He was a Boston Globe All-Scholastic choice, on the All-New England team, and he got into Harvard to play the game he was born to play.

His father, the director of football operations at BC, had close ties to the Flutie brothers. Darren was born the week of the Flutie Hail Mary, which is why his first name is for Darren Flutie, and his middle name is Douglas, for Doug Flutie.

Sadly, on Valentine's Day of our senior year, Darren was killed in a car accident, when his car slid on black ice and he wasn't wearing a seat belt. I don't think I'll ever be as shocked or sick as I was the day that I heard the news.

He was untouchable, the last person you'd expect this to happen to. It was literally like every news story that you've ever heard about with these types of tragedies.

Stories that, when you hear them, you never think it could happen to you or someone you know. Especially not to a kid like Darren, who had such a bright future and an all- American family.

The thing is, even with all of Darren's accolades in sports and academics, his big-man-on-campus status, and notoriety for his athleticism, when I think about him, it's his character and good nature that I remember.

I had the privilege of sharing a locker with him during the hockey season, and every single day he brought nothing but positive energy to the team.

You'd think a guy of his stature would be cocky, but he was far from it. He was the kid who had special, intricate handshakes with a solid 50 different people.

He was even trained as a classical pianist, though the only songs I ever heard him bust out were by 50 Cent or Biggie.

He loved having hockey hair flow out of his helmet, as did I, and, every time before a game, he would prep the look and look to me for approval.

Normally, our hair was brutal during the day, looking like a mop of spaghetti. But under a helmet? Pimp.

I could spew out a million other great memories that I have of him, but I think you get the point. He was a great friend, and I didn't truly grasp how many people he had touched until I went to his wake during the biggest blizzard since 1978, and there was a line out the door the length of, well, close to a football field.

It's been six years since this tragedy happened, and it is still as frustrating and painful now as it was back then. Something so senseless should never happen to good people, and it is the hardest life lesson I have ever had to learn.

Gen. George Patton once said, "It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived." That's the resounding thought that has helped me cope with losing my good friend.

Instead of focusing on the negatives of his untimely end, I reminisce about our friendship and all the joy he brought to the people around him. I consider myself lucky to have gotten the chance to know him, and I will always be thankful for that.

I will always be grateful for the people I have in my life, and I think it is important for everyone not to take for granted the people that matter to you. You never know when life can throw you a curve ball, so you need to cherish the good things while they are in front of you.

Now, when I think hard enough, I can still see him from my spot on the bench as Darren sprints down the sideline for yet another touchdown, with the crowd roaring. I can still see his goofy smile as he preps for one of his many secret handshakes. I can still see my friend. And I miss him.

This is a poem by A.E. Housman that was the inspiration for this title:

                                   To an Athlete Dying Young

THE time you won your town the race
We chaired you through the market-place;
Man and boy stood cheering by,
And home we brought you shoulder-high.

To-day, the road all runners come,
Shoulder-high we bring you home,
And set you at your threshold down,
Townsman of a stiller town.

Smart lad, to slip betimes away
From fields where glory does not stay,
And early though the laurel grows
It withers quicker than the rose.

Eyes the shady night has shut
Cannot see the record cut,
And silence sounds no worse than cheers
After earth has stopped the ears:

Now you will not swell the rout
Of lads that wore their honours out,
Runners whom renown outran
And the name died before the man.

So set, before its echoes fade,
The fleet foot on the sill of shade,
And hold to the low lintel up
The still-defended challenge-cup.

And round that early-laurelled head
Will flock to gaze the strengthless dead,
And find unwithered on its curls
The garland briefer than a girl's.

The 25 Best Sports Movies of All Time

Pete McKeown — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:44:31 -0500

Here's part II of my list, Top 50 Greatest Sports Movies. I am a huge fan of movies, sports and lists, so this slideshow seemed to be a natural one for me to undertake. When making my rankings, I took into account factors that you won't find in any AFI handbook. I don't delve into the filming aspects of cinematography, screenplay adaptation, or Oscar nominations. I chose these movies because I liked them, not because they are historically ranked highly. I'm sure there will be some scrutiny for the choices and people will disagree with my rankings, but it's a list about movies, so I'm fine with that. Just make sure to comment and give me your favorite sports movies. Also, here is the link to Part I of my list, nos. 50-26- http://bleacherreport.com/articles/115264-top-50-greatest-sports-movies-50-26. (Note: I need to apologize for neglecting to put "Youngblood" on my previous list. It would rank somewhere in the 30's or 40's for me. The name on the back of my jersey in men's league hockey is "Swayze" because of his role in this, and Keanu Reeves plays goalie. I love the 80's.)

Begin Slideshow

The 50 Best Sports Movies of All Time: Part 1

Pete McKeown — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 00:17:53 -0500

Who doesn't love a good sports movie? Seriously, I can't think of anyone. Even my friend who thinks movies are a waste of time would become violent if you made a snide comment about "Brian’s Song." It's simple. In some way, sports has shaped or affected or at least been a minuscule part of almost everyone's life in this country. If you tried to play football but couldn't, because you were too small, you probably loved "Rudy." If you ever have gotten the urge to say, kidnap someone, then the movie "Celtic Pride" should appeal to your sentiments. Heck, if you think Rosie Perez is hot in the mid-90's and you like gratuitous sideboob, as long as the TV is on mute, then "White Men Can't Jump" will be a godsend. I'm a huge fan of movie lists, and ranking sports movies is a fun, yet challenging task. I had to rank 50 because there are definitely more than 25 really good movies that need to be talked about. These are all movies I've seen, so I don't have many old time movies like you'd see in an AFI-type list. I'm only going to give some observations and thoughts on the movies I chose, as it would take forever to thoroughly analyze each ranking. Please, comment with your thoughts as I'm sure many people have different views from mine on this, as there are so many good ones to choose from. Stay tuned for my top 25.

Begin Slideshow

Your Super Bowl XLIII Matchup: Arizona Cardinals Vs. Baltimore Ravens

Pete McKeown — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:40:07 -0500

It is a good thing I don't have enough money to gamble, because I would have gotten cleaned out this weekend. The only game I picked correctly was the Baltimore win (I even nailed the exact score...No big deal.) Some quick thoughts about the weekend's games:

•   Really Carolina? Jake Delhomme set a new record for most times in one game where a pro NFL quarterback looked worse than a playground league, flag football veteran.

•   I'd be more comfortable converting a 3rd-and-short with a Larry Fitzgerald prayer than a Brandon Jacobs' scamper.

•   At the start of this season, did anyone think a 9-7 Arizona Cardinals would be hosting a 9-6-1 Philadelphia Eagles team in the NFC Championship?

•   The Eagles have the most overrated offense of the remaining teams, but also the most underrated defense.

•   Joe Buck's announcing is like listening to paint dry. By the second quarter of the Eagles vs. Giants, I just watched the game with "Lord of the Rings: Return of the King" as the audio. Gandalf would be an unreal sideline reporter.

•   Donovan McNabb is getting a little bit too cocky. At the end of the Minnesota game, he caught the last pass and played with the ball and this past game against the Giants, he picked up a phone on the Giant's sideline when he had all but won it. Karma, my friends always comes back to haunt you.

•   If nothing else, I hope Darren Sproles gets a little more respect after his performances. He's one of the main reasons I don't get into fights when I go out to bars. Imagine seeing this 5'5” guy is talking trash, looking flashy, and he bumps into you, looking for a fight. Odds are, he's a little punk and you win, but maybe just maybe, it’s Darren Sproles, or Oscar De La Hoya, in which case you may be the guy with a glass eye.

The Picks

Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1) @ Arizona Cardinals (9-7) 3 PM

I liked Atlanta over Arizona. I loved Carolina against Arizona. Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice? Shame on me. There won't be a third time. Arizona is going to win this game, and I'm on the bandwagon.

The Cardinals somehow find themselves hosting the NFC championship against a team they matchup well with. I think Kurt Warner is going to do what he does best and put up at least three passing TD's. Philly's defense is great, but Arizona's offense can pick apart any team if it's firing on all cylinders.

Philly's offense also is more erratic that Rick Ankiel pitching batting practice. They haven't established the run in multiple important games, and they've really relied on their defense to set them up for most of their opportunities.

Philly should be favored by about two points, but I think Arizona wins this game in the third quarter and then Philadelphia implodes trying to come back.

Final score: Arizona Cardinals 27 Philadelphia Eagles 17

Baltimore Ravens (11-5) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) 6:30 PM

This game is an absolute toss up. Pittsburgh looked convincing and healthy against San Diego. Baltimore beat a tough Titans team on the road. Both defenses are downright nasty and neither offense is particularly outstanding.

Both teams will fare well in Pittsburgh's quagmire (giggity) of a field. Picking a winner in this game is sheer luck as far as I'm concerned. That's why I thought about the best thing about either team, and I decided that Baltimore should win because the TV show on HBO, "The Wire", is filmed there. It is by far the best five seasons of television to date, and that's why the Ravens are going to win a defensive struggle with a late Joe Flacco touchdown to Derrick Mason.

Final Score: Baltimore Ravens 16 Pittsburgh Steelers 13

Ten Steps to an All-Pro NFL Tailgate

Pete McKeown — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 00:27:44 -0500

There are three things that will always make me happy: inhaling barbecued food, drinking large quantities of beer and watching football. Each of these activities by themselves will put a smile on most any guy's face.

Put the three together? Well then, you have yourself a tailgate. And tailgating, my friends, is one of God's finest creations.

So here are 10 ways for you to become a top-notch tailgater, a king among mere mortals.

1. Booze.

No-brainer, right? But too many people go into these weekends hoping to save a few bucks and decide to shave that out of the beer funds. This is by far the last thing that should be touched. I'd rather re-mortgage.

Nobody has ever left a tailgate saying, "Damn, they just had way too much beer, the nerve." If it's freezing cold, the beer is clutch. If it's a nice spring day, nothing like some cold beer. This is the one day every couple of weeks you can totally let loose and be awesome, so don't short change yourself on the adult sodas.

2. Large quantities of really good food.

Again, simple concept. But this is a vital aspect of a tailgate's success. You need steak, burgers, dogs, random types of tips, nacho with crazy dip, maybe some chicken parm and some pasta. Stay away from vegetables, sushi, or pretty much anything that you'd eat if you were on a diet. That's what weekdays are for.

It's sure nice to have variety of foods represented. If your friend has a girlfriend who can make a gourmet lasagna, she's invited. And make sure, without fail, there is one person dedicated to manning the grill who is extremely talented at this culinary art. Too many tailgates are ruined by chefs who go rogue while amateurs are left to butcher the meals.

3. Make friends with someone who has an awesome tent set up with a huge pickup truck.

Everyone needs this guy. Such ample space for everything you need, a portable party. A shelter always makes it feel a little more like home and can be a god send when mother nature decides to crash the party.

4. Televisions.

You don't need a flat screen or anything overly fancy. A 1995 17-inch Panasonic, but if it gets the games that are playing while your tailgating, it might as well be an IMAX. You don't realize how good it is to have a television at a tailgate until you bring one, and you won't want to do another tailgate without sweet basic cable.

5. Make sure everyone brings something to the tailgate—for it's a luxury, not a right.

Some preferred gifts: Designated Driving/Chef, marinated steak tips, 30 pack of anything better than Keystone, a stripper (warm weather games only for insurance reasons).

The point is, if everyone collaborates, you can have the best of every world. Don't be like the guy who, for the Yankee swap last Christmas, thought a fair gift would be a re-gifted board game. Bring something that makes your friends say, "Good call," and your job is done.

6. Drinking Games.

NFL tailgates are a competitive atmosphere already, why not throw in some beer pong, flip cup or a game called corn-holing? No, it's not a porn move, it's the game where you toss a bean bag at the hole of a wooden box. This website does a better job of not sounding risque: http://www.collegebeergames.com/cornhole-game.php. Fantastic game.

No matter what the age, competitive drinking should be something every person looks forward to. I've judged many of my college friendships based on how good they were at drinking games. Before I started dating my current girlfriend, we won a mixed doubles beer pong tournament together, and I can assure you it was a major factor.

7. The group is only as good as its weakest link.

Make sure everyone at the tailgate is someone you'd back up in a fight or at the very least, would engage in conversation. To be safe, keep the group to being fans of your team.

You never know what kind of emotional state you'll be in after 12 hours of partying followed by an epic loss of the team you worship. After the 2003 Red Sox loss in the Aaron Boone game, one wrong comment by a New York fan could have landed me the starring role on the next season of Law and Order.

8. Two very large friends.

If you abide by rules one through seven, rule eight becomes very important. A great tailgate garners a lot of attention, both good and bad. Rival tailgates will want to stir the pot on occasion and talk smack.

If you have behemoths holding down the fort, a vicious cock fight is less likely to occur and you and your friends won't have to keep your heads on a swivel. Also, I've been friends with some offensive linemen in my day, and it truly is a sight to watch anyone throw back dozens of beers.

9. Limits.

Eat a lot, but don't eat so much that you wind up subletting one of the port-a-potties. Get drunk, but don't get so drunk that you fall asleep onto the 10 year old at his first NFL game.

Don't make any of your friends have to stop watching the game to babysit you. Get the kind of drunk you would if you were the best man at a wedding. Not so drunk that you can't get through the speech, but drunk enough to make the groom second guess asking you.

10. Plan B.

If you're like me, the Utopian tailgate can seem like a myth that can be unattainable. To put on a truly magnificent tailgate, you've got to be ready to drop some cash and you need a dedicated group of friends to shoulder the burden. Plan B is a more frugal approach. All you have to do is to take the train to the stadium and crash the tailgate that is adhering to rules one through nine.

New England Patriots' NFL Draft Needs in 2009

Pete McKeown — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 16:22:17 -0500

When it comes to drafts, the Patriots have historically been know for having an efficient and educated war room. Decision-makers Scott Pioli and Bill Belichick understand the importance of draft day and never waste a pick.

They love to go out and get players with a high game IQ and versatility; guys who can come right in and fit into their system or fill a specific need.

As of right now, they have nine picks, though that will change based on their compensation picks they will receive for losing players like Asante Samuel or Donté Stallworth.

Pioli and Belichick love to stockpile picks, even if it's on the second day, and following a year where they saw how important team depth can be, they are sure to take each pick seriously.

I don't see them going after too many guys on the offensive side of the ball. They certainly are set at quarterback and their committee of running backs proved to be a very successful experiment, and if Laurence Maroney can come back healthy and gain back the confidence the team once had in him, they could have up to four weapons in the back field and have no need to draft at RB.

The only positions on offense I could see them drafting are offensive line, tight end and possibly a receiver if they decide to challenge the struggling Jabar Gaffney. With the exception of Logan Mankins, the Patriots usually wait until the later rounds to pick up offensive linemen, in some cases even signing undrafted free agents that have raw potential (Stephen Neal).

The tight-end position in 2008 left something to be desired, but only because the expectations had been set so high for the past seasons. Ben Watson, for all his speed and raw talent, has yet to assert himself into the offensive scheme. Also, the fact that my only memory of David Thomas from this season is his idiotic penalty to cost the Pats the huge game against the Indianapolis Colts is not good for his stock.

I wouldn't be surprised if they used a third or fourth rounder to bring more depth to the position.

Defensively, the Patriots have a lot of holes to fill. With their first pick of the draft, I see them going out and getting a safety. They need a guy who can help protect them from being exposed by deep passes, and someone like Taylor Mays out of USC would be a very nice talent to pick up (though they'd probably have to trade up for him).

I think they do need a linebacker also, as they are aging quickly and showed a lack of depth before the end of the season when they had to pull Junior Seau out of retirement. Don't expect Belichick to fill this need in the first round unless it's a very highly regarded LB, as Jerod Mayo was last year, but another young athlete for the inside would go a long way to strengthening the core.

The Patriots will definitely pick a cornerback or even multiple in this draft, but I also see them potentially using some picks to trade for a veteran or going out into free agency and finding someone who fits their personnel. They were exposed last season as a team with a secondary that could be picked apart, and expect the Patriots' decision-makers to fill that void accordingly.

Another name I heard floating around was veteran Jason Taylor, a great fit for a line that could use more speed to get to the passer. He'd fit nicely in the Pats' scheme, though I don't know that they could afford someone with his contract.

Promising sophomore Shawn Crable, who missed most of last year with an injury, was being compared to Willie McGinest, a high complement in Foxborough. If a defensive lineman is chosen, odds are it will happen on the second day, because New England's D-line is as solid as they come.

Whatever the Patriots decide to do, be sure to know it will be calculated. They head into this offseason with a higher-than-normal salary cap, an aging defense, and holes in some dangerous positions, so expect them to go into this upcoming draft with purpose and a sense of urgency to address the flaws that kept them from playing past Week 17 in 2008.

NFL Divisional Playoff Preview

Pete McKeown — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:20:57 -0500

This NFL season has been full of upsets and surprises. Miami and Atlanta rising from the ashes of deplorable seasons; Detroit going 0-16; the Patriots winning 11 games and missing the playoffs.

If I were a betting man, my ATM would be in a serious recession.

Last week’s wild card games were no exception. My favorite for the Super Bowl, Indianapolis, was trounced by a .500 Chargers team from the lowly AFC West. Atlanta’s amazing season was stopped short by an 9-7 Arizona; not by their juggernaut of an offense, but by a defense that is about as reliable my ’86 Crown Victoria.

The Philadelphia win in Minnesota was less of a surprise, but still could have gone either way based on the Eagle’s lack of consistency and Viking’s ability to pound the ball on the ground at home.

Baltimore’s dismantling of Miami on the road was the only real no-brainer out of the weekend’s games in my eyes and even that game could have gone in a different direction if Chad Pennington had stayed conservative at the first half instead of throwing a weak punt to the able hands of Ed Reed.

The survivors of the wild card round have little time to celebrate as they each go up against tougher opponents in the quest for Tampa.

Game 1: Baltimore Ravens @ Tennessee Titans, Saturday 4:30 PM

Offense

Both these teams enjoy similarly effective systems with two-headed running attacks and QB’s that try to minimize mistakes. For the Titans, Lendale White and rookie Chris Johnson have given new meaning to a thunder and lightning approach, proving to be as effective as any team on the ground. The resurgence of veteran Kerry Collins gives them valuable experience at the helm, and when they run the ball effectively, he has shown his ability to pick a secondary apart. The Ravens’ offense may have struggled a bit against a strong Miami defense but was able to run the ball consistently with Le’Ron McClain and Willis McGahee while rookie QB Joe Flacco continues to play with a veteran presence and a rocket arm. If either team has an advantage here, it would have to be Tennessee, due to their veteran QB and more explosive running attack (Chris Johnson is a stud), but the two offenses are pretty much even.

Defense

This game will be decided based on which defense plays better. The Ravens have been absolute beasts defensively, almost guaranteed to cause costly turnovers. They have veteran superstars on the D-Line (T. Suggs), in the LB core (R. Lewis) and in the secondary (E. Reed), and their play-making ability acts as a second offense. Tennessee’s defense will put fear in any opposing QB’s eyes, especially since their bye week gave valuable rest to injured stars, Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch on defense and center Kevin Mawae. With Haynesworth and Vanden Bosch healthy, the Titans are as talented as anyone on the defensive side of the ball, though I’m giving the slight edge here to the Ravens again because they’re certainly the hotter team.

Coaching/Intangibles

In a game that will come down to FG’s, both teams employ standout kickers. The Titan’s Rob Bironas can kick it a country mile and the Raven’s Matt Stover has hit 16 out of his last 17, so that’s basically a push. The Titans were 8-1 at home this season, and any time you have to go to someone else’s house, it’s a disadvantage, even though Baltimore had no issue in Miami. In their previous meeting, the Titans won 13-10, but that was in Week 5 so don’t expect that to be a barometer. I give the edge here to the Titans for the sole fact that they have had Jeff Fisher since 1994 and he’s been in this situation enough times to fill two hands while Baltimore’s Coach John Harbaugh is in his very first year.

My Pick

The Ravens have been playing must-win football for about six weeks while the Titans have been injured and coasting to the finish. Ravens 13 Titans 10

Game 2: Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers, Saturday 8:30 PM

Offense

These teams couldn’t have more different offensive schemes. The Cardinals passing attack has been among the best in the NFL all season due to their three superstars in Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. They did just enough damage against Atlanta to win the game, and in a previous meeting with Carolina, Warner threw for 387 yards and 3 TD’s in a tough loss. Their running game was nearly nonexistent all season, but last week they showed signs of life with Edgerrin James’ resurrection, which is vital to their survival this week.

Carolina, on the other hand, has a running game to drool over. Deangelo Williams has been outstanding all seasons, scoring 20 TD’s and averaging over five yards a carry. That sets up the passing game that’s not great but definitely serviceable, with Steve Smith’s uncanny big-play ability. This is a draw for me; both teams are relatively one-dimensional in different ways and rely heavily on their strengths.

Defense

Neither defense has been stellar this season, but Arizona’s is certainly not as talented. They let up 27 points a game to the Panther’s 21 and have been a doormat for opposing RB’s. Against the Falcons, however, they showed a resilience not seen in the regular season and they shut down Michael Turner, arguably the best RB of the regular season, and look for their defensive stalwart Karlos Dansby to shadow Williams the way he did with Turner.

Carolina’s defense has the potential to be unbelievable any weekend, and Julius Peppers makes for an impossible matchup no matter who the opponent. They have been wildly inconsistent, and unfortunately for them, they are weak against teams who specialize in the pass. In their season finale, they allowed Drew Brees to throw for nearly 400 yards on a Saints team that had a very similar offensive formula as the Cardinals. The edge here easily goes to the Panthers, but if Arizona’s defense carries momentum from last week’s game, it could be interesting.

Coaching/Intangibles

For me, the most telling stat of this game is the fact that Carolina is undefeated at home and Arizona didn’t win a single road game on the East Coast. Carolina’s John Fox has coached this team well enough to exceed expectations, and they are as confident as any team in these playoffs while Ken Whisenhunt has re-motivated his team into thinking it can beat anyone with their high-powered offense. This is a strong edge to the Panthers, being in Carolina.

My Pick

This game has a potential for an upset depending on which Arizona defense shows up, but I expect the Panthers to pull away in the second half with their stellar run game. Panthers 34 Cardinals 24

Game 3: Philadelphia Eagles @ New York Giants, Sunday 1 PM

Offense

The Eagles offense is as erratic they come. One game they can bust out for 30 points against a very good team, and in another week they can muster only FG’s against a pushover. Last week against the Vikings, they were saved by a huge Westbrook screen and a defensive TD, but don’t expect the Giants to allow either. If Philly wants to win, it will need to establish a consistent running game or Donovan McNabb will be forced into some turnovers. The Giants offense is painfully consistent and rarely flashy. They average the most rushing yards per game in the NFL, getting over 1,000 out of both Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward. Eli Manning may not have turned many heads with his statistics, but he had his most successful year to date and has gained the trust of a fickle New York. The Giants have a clear edge based on consistency, but Philly can trump that if they decide to bring their A-game.

Defense

Statistically, these defenses are mirror images of each other. They both make their living stopping the run and using the turnover as an offensive tool. The Eagles come into the postseason having more success than the Giants keeping the opposing team out of the end zone but then again, the Giants had very little to play for, having locked up the division early on. I think Philly’s defense has a very slight edge at this stage of the season, but the Giants' defense has been known to save its best performances for big games.

Coaching/Intangibles

Both teams’ kickers, John Carney for NY and David Akers for Philly, had great years and can be counted on for a big game. I like Philly’s chances of breaking a big return with Desean Jackson, who looked especially shifty in Minnesota. Tom Coughlin is a better coach in my eyes than Andy Reid, who seems to hurt his team in close games with poor clock management or 3rd-and-short deep passes. Most importantly, the game is in the Meadowlands, and even though Philly came in and won there late in the season, it’s still a marked advantage for the Giants, especially coming off of a much needed bye week.

My Pick

This game is hard to choose for me because these two teams know each other so well. They split the season series in close games, but I think the Giants fear of losing this game will trump the Eagles’ will to win it. Giants 21 Eagles 20

Game 4: San Diego @ Pittsburgh, Sunday 4:45 PM

Offense

San Diego has the obvious advantage when it comes to moving the ball and scoring points. Philip Rivers has truly become one of the best QB’s in the league, putting up MVP stats for a guy with a weak arm. They also shredded the Colts defense with Darren Sproles, who has stepped in for LT yet again and outperformed him. Expect him to come down to earth against a top-notch Pittsburgh D, but could he break a few big plays? Absolutely. Pittsburgh has a lot of veteran leadership on offense and a game plan that is built for playoff football. They like to hold on to the ball and I’m sure at some point, a trick play will be used to try and mix it up; but when it comes down to it, their offense doesn’t scare me one bit.

Defense

Pittsburgh’s defense gives me nightmares. They hit hard every play, bottle up the run, and force offenses into dangerous passing situations on 3rd-and-long. They held this great Chargers offense to 10 points at home, and if they play to their potential, this won’t be much of a matchup. San Diego’s defense was porous at best during the regular season, allowing over 350 yards a game, and 22 points a game (8 more than Pitt). However, they have always had the potential to have a great game because they have no shortage of defensive athletes (Cromartie, Philips), but Pittsburgh has a huge advantage here.

Coaching/Intangibles

I love San Diego’s return game with Sproles, but I think Pittsburgh has an advantage at kicker with Jeff Reed. I think Mike Tomlin has done a nice job this season, and I expect him to be creative in the way he attacks the Charger’s offense. I’m not a huge fan of Norv Turner’s in-game coaching, though I do think Turner deserves a lot of credit for motivating his team into saving their season and mounting this impressive winning streak. Pittsburgh has an edge here based on the fact that they are great at home and even better in less than perfect weather.

My Pick

This is my upset special of the week because I think this San Diego team is playing inspired football. They beat a very good Colts team, and Pittsburgh is primed for a letdown against a Chargers team that’s playing with nothing to lose.

Chargers 23 Steelers 20