The N.A.D.

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.12

2009-11-29T10:34:00.003-06:00

Well I am back after contemplating my betting life after a few tough weeks. It's amazing how fortunes can turn, look at the Giants who started 5-0 and are now awful. It is amazing to me that a starting NFL safety can not read play action. I am looking directly at you C.C. Brown. It seems that the Giants just forgot how to play defense, missed tackles, and blown coverages are things the Browns should be doing not the Giants. If I'm Bill Sheridan or Kevin Gilbride I'd start negotiating Realtor fees because you two should not be back next year after the suck ass performances of the past weeks.

Some Quick Thoughts:
How can the NFL Network think having Matt Millen in the booth on Thursday nights is a good idea?

Is Vince Young really back, did he learn enough from the drunk racist to not break down again?

Notre Dame, you are really bad at tackling on defense.

Did Colt McCoy win the Heisman with his performance on Thursday night?

The picks this week:

Houston +3 vs. Indianapolis
Minnesota -10 vs. Chicago
San Francisco -3 vs. Jacksonville
Atlanta -12 vs. Tampa Bay
St. Louis +4 vs. Seattle

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 12

2009-11-20T23:31:00.009-06:00

Still treading water, its a good thing I've made like the Illini and checked out for the year. However, I've got a little money line streak going (2 in a row) so maybe I've found my late season niche.

Tennessee - 17 vs Vanderbilt

It's been a tough seven days from the Vols, but a visit from the SEC's worst is just what the doctor ordered. A few weeks ago this team was arguably the 3rd best team in the league and aside from two unimportant freshman this is the same squad led a coach with a continually growing chip on his shoulder. The punishing D won't give up a thing to a struggling Vanderbilt offense and QB Jonathan Crompton will continue his impressive senior season. The O/U on Eric Berry layouts is 2 1/2, I'm throwing it all on the O.

Tennessee 34, Vanderbilt 6

Rutgers -8.5 @ Syracuse

It's been the formula the past two seasons for the Scarlet Knights - start slow enough to remain under the radar and put yourself in position to cover favorable spreads. The Knights have won 6 of 7 and keep getting stronger, starting with QB Tom Savage. The defense is playing at an extremely high level and I expect they'll keep it up against the punch-less orange. It won't be very exciting but Rutgers will control the game and pick up the W convincingly.

Rutgers 24, Syracuse 13

Notre Dame -6 vs UConn

The embattled Irish have once again flopped, but lets not forget they still boast one of the most talented and productive offenses in the country. Jimmy Clausen should have little problem picking apart a Husky secondary ranked 96th in the country and emotionally drained after the death of Jasper Howard. UConn presents a challenging running game, but Notre Dame's D is due for a decent effort after their recent pathetic efforts. The home field is huge in this one which is outside of UConn's comfort zone.

Notre Dame 34, UConn 23

Purdue -3 @ Indiana

Purdue's been up and down but what an entertaining year it's been. Joey Elliot can make a case for 1st team all Big 10 and he'll show up in a big way in his final game. This will be an entertaining game, but just like every other game, IU will find a way to lose. It's a good thing Joe Tiller will be in Wyoming on Saturday, Danny Hope isn't going to start his career 0-1 versus the least successful program in FBS history. The over (hovering around 60) is probably safe here as well.

Purdue 41, Indiana 31

Stretching for a Triple

Kentucky +310 vs Georgia

Rich Brooks isn't foreign to shocking the southeast, and this year's version of the Cats has what it take against a worse-than-normal Georgia team. HBs Derrick Locke and Randall Cobb combine to form a unit averaging over 200 yards per game on the ground, and Georgia hasn't exactly been stout against the run. The defense is also playing at a very high level, especially against the pass, ranking 34th in the country. Kentucky has quietly won 4 of 5 heading into this one. Make it 5 for 6 and their signature win of the season.

Kentucky 24, Georgia 23

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.10

2009-11-14T21:58:00.003-06:00

Coming back this week after a restful bye weekend I can promise I won't throw five picks like Jay Cutler did on Thursday night.

Let's get to those picks...

Denver -4 at Washington

Baltimore -11 at The Cleve
Ray Rice is projected to score 24 points in my fantasy football league this week. That's more than AP who plays at home against the Lions.

Pittsburgh -7 vs Cincinnati
Dallas -3 at Green Bay

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 11

2009-11-12T12:15:00.008-06:00

Classic format until bowl season. It's gotten so lean I'm yearning for the "glory days" of 2007.

Kentucky - 3.5 @ Vanderbilt

The Cats are better than their 5-4 record would indicate and tend to take care of the teams that they should. The running game (191 yd/game) shouldn't have a problem getting going against the Commodores below average front seven. The D can hold it's own too and won't be challenged by an offense that puts up a shade below 17 points per game. For the Commodores, this is a down year for a school that's hardly a football factory. Kentucky needs this one to go bowling and won't let their guard down when crossing the state line.

Kentucky 37, Vanderbilt 21

Utah +19.5 @ TCU

TCU is a complete team and has demolished all in its path thus far. But let's not forget that Utah won the Sugar Bowl last year and that the Mountain West still goes through the Great Salt Lake. This team still puts up 30 points a game and gives up less than 300 en route to an 8-1 record. Kyle Whittingham will have his guys ready to play at their highest level. All these points are an early Christmas present, Frogs will not go through the regular season unchallenged.

TCU 24, Utah 17

Arkansas -13.5 vs Troy

This season's Arkansas has been a bettor's dream - run up the score against inferior opponents, get sent packing against good defenses. While we all love the men of Troy's penchant for covering the spread, this is not a good matchup for them. Ryan Mallett destroys secondaries outside of the SEC, and the defense has been playing better than expected. The Hogs still have a lot to prove as the new kid on the block, and you know how Petrino feels about sportsmanship.

Arkansas 48, Troy 24

Boston College -4.5 @ Virginia

Its that time of the year when many team's (and coaches) fates have been decided. BC has overachieved greatly this year and still has a shot to go to the conference championship game. Their 25 year old quarterback is literally a man amongst boys and there's not a chance he can rattled like a 22 year old. We all know the sad state of Al Groh, and like 2008, 2009 is shaping into a bell curve where Halloween continues into November. The season is over for the Cavaliers, they're looking to close the book on this season as soon as possible.

Boston College 27, Virginia 14

Florida St +170 @ Wake Forest

I think I'm 0-fer picking the Seminoles on the blog. One of these Saturdays old man Bowden will wake up, think it's 1994, and lead his team to a beatdown.

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 10

2009-11-06T16:36:00.011-06:00

You did what I suggested and put all of your earnings on SMU +650 right? I knew June Jones would finally come around for me, no thanks to Bo Levi. Other than that pretty flat. Mark Cuban must have had Iowa -17.5 and threatened to pull his contributions from Indiana University, I have no other justification for what happened to that garbage team.

West Virginia - 17 vs Louisville Great game for Jarret Brown and Noel Devine to right the ship, Louisville is a bad team and bad teams don't play well on the road in November.

Wisconsin -10.5 @ Indiana Physical Badgers are underrated and sound in all aspects, Hoosiers still aren't recovered from last week's meltdown

Miami -13.5 vs Virginia Big comeback last week will provide Canes the boost they need to defend their turf with a vengeance, Groh has run out of stingers and his time is done.

Texas A&M -3 @ Colorado Aggies finally playing like the team I've been waiting for, Buffaloes can't hang in a shootout

Duke +10 @ North Carolina Cutcliffe's crew has never let me down, always plays great as dogs, and this game has conference implications.

LSU +7.5 @ Alabama Tigers are playing the best they have since 2007, Greg McElroy is proving that he's still green. Feels like a 20-17 game.

UTEP -6.5 @ Tulane Yo-yo Miners have a newfound gem at running back and have an experienced QB, Tulane has too many holes to win if UTEP doesn't implode.

Kansas -2.5 @ Kansas St Jayhawks's seniors have never lost to KSU, bad matchup for Wildcats as Reesing should pick apart their secondary. Jayhawks are due.

Tennessee -25.5 vs Memphis Things have tipped for the Volunteers, beating down porous Memphis will just add to their growing confidence. Crompton seems to have finally figured things out.

FSU +9.5 @ Clemson Christian Ponder has been awesome this year, he'll keep up in what looks like a shootout.

Houston -1.5 @ Tulsa This is Keenum's Heisman year - ride this train.

Nevada -13.5 @ San Jose St (Sunday) Kaepernick and the Wolfpack are tearing up the WAC, depleted Spartan's can't stop the run, how can they hang in this matchup?

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.8

2009-11-01T09:38:00.002-06:00

We are slowing approaching the mid point of the season and it is clear that there are some awful teams in the NFL this year. It amazes me how some teams can be bad year in and year out.

The Cleveland Browns, St. Louis Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Detroit Lions, and the Oakland Raiders are horrible and it all starts at the top. Until these teams move out of town and a new owner comes in to place these teams are not going to be good with the exception of the Buccaneers and Rams the other three teams are garbage.

Picks:
Houston -3 at Buffalo
New York Jets -3 vs. Miami
Dallas -9.5 vs. Seattle
Arizona -10 vs. Carolina
New York Giants -1.5 at Philadelphia

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 9

2009-10-25T19:16:00.027-05:00

A bittersweet 4-3 last week, but can't be too upset about making a few bucks. Might have been 5-2 had it not been for another award-winning performance from Beau (go to to 0:39 in).

June Jones might want to consider starting his teenage daughter next week, I think she'd give SMU a better chance to win.

Also, special thanks to Miami (OH) for throwing in a garbage touchdown on the last play to kill the spread against Northern Illinois. I hope those worthless points remove the sting of being 0-8, Redhawks.

YTD Results (ATS and O/U)

It's been a very odd year. The SEC is playing out as it's supposed to, while my bread and butter Big 10 has abandoned me. The only thing that's remained the same is the ACC money pit. I've combined the Mountain West and WAC because I still can't tell the difference between these two.

SEC 9-1
Mtn West/WAC 4-1
Big 10 3-7
ACC 1-6

Picks

Rutgers +7.5 @ UConn

I'm leading off with the Knights again after they took care of business last week. This is a team on the rise (winning 5 of 6) led by a solid D and an improving young quarterback. It's hasn't exactly been profitable to bet against UConn this year (7-0) but they have to lose ATS once - right ?

USC - 3 @ Oregon

The winner of this game takes the Pac-10, and there hasn't been a better program in the country in games like this over the last decade than the Trojans. The Ducks can run the ball but they're going up against a challenged and extremely talented USC defense. USC's running backs should be able to get theirs against an underwhelming Ducks front. On intangibles alone, I'm playing the Trojans until they're dethroned as Pac 10 dictators.

Florida -14.5 vs. Georgia

The Gators have been keeping things close lately, but let's not forget this is still the best defense in the country and the offense isn't too far behind. Tebow has gotten his mistakes out of the way the past few weeks, and he'll be back to his crisp self. This isn't Stafford's Georgia, Joe Cox is makeshift at best and this isn't one of Richt's better teams. Gators control this one from the start.

Nebraska - 13 @ Baylor

The Huskers have laid two eggs in a row and here's assuming that Bo Pelini isn't going to allow a 3rd. The defense is still absurdly good, and shouldn't have much issue with a Baylor offense deep in the red. An easy road game is just what Nebraska needs right now to get back on track for the rest of the season.

Duke +7.5 @ Virginia

Thus far David Cutcliffe's Blue Devils have been the one team exempt (2-0) from my ACC curse. Couple that with an on-fire Thad Lewis, a touchdown and a hook and I like my chances of going 3-0. If this season is anything like last for Groh, the Cavs are heading downhill towards another poor ending.

Michigan -7 @ Illinois

We'd all be closing on summer homes if we'd just followed our gut and bet against Zook this season, but I'm thinking the ship hasn't sailed. This team is in dissarray, and are already preparing for next year. Michigan isn't there yet with the top of the class in the Big 10, but they've got a lot to prove and you know how Rich Rod feels about the spread.

Indiana +17.5 @ Iowa

I never thought the day would come where I'd be promoting the Hoosiers, but I've won games on Florida International and Western Kentucky so maybe the time has come. Indiana's not nearly as pitiful as usual (5-2 ATS) and will bring their A-game to Kinnick to take on the beaten up Hawks. Iowa won't get fancy with this one and will be glad to do the minimum and put this one in the rearview.

Georgia Tech -12.5 @ Vanderbilt

It's been a long season for the overwhelmed Commodores and it's not about to get any easier with the triple option coming to town. One week won't be enough for the defense to prepare, and even if they play well Vandy's offense won't be able to move the ball, which they've struggled to do all year. Dwyer and company roll on this business trip.

Cal -6.5 @ Arizona State

Since taking dual shelackings from USC and Oregon and dropping off the map, Cal has gotten themselves together and knocked around UCLA and Washington State. Jahvid Best and company are playing like the Top 10 team they were when they started the season and should be able to continue to hot streak against Arizona State.

Houston -6.5 vs Southern Miss

Keenum, at home, one score? This is Houston's year, they're not going to let Southern Miss spoil the party.

Off the Record

SMU +650 @ Tulsa

Ah, the irony. I'm fairly sure my nemesis will somehow find a way to blow this, but SMU can legitimately win this game, and there's not many payouts like this where that's the case. Turn $30 into $200, you've got nothing to lose.

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.7

2009-10-25T09:40:00.002-05:00

Well after my 1-4 for last week I hope to have a better week. At least I went 2-0 in my NLCS picks which helped ease the pain a little bit. On to the picks this week.

Minnesota +6 at Pittsburgh
New Orleans -6 at Miami
Washington +7 vs Philadelphia
Green Bay -9 at Cleveland
Giants -7 vs Arizona

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 8

2009-10-23T16:04:00.005-05:00

Momentum-halting last week, but you're bound to get one of those in October. Late collapses from Washington and Stanford killed my money line bets (not to mention an injury to Sam Bradford), so I'm taking a week off from those to let the wounds heal properly. The bus will once again be headed north after Saturday.

Rutgers -10.5 @ Army (Friday)

The Scarlet Knights were picking up some steam before Wanny shut the door last week, but Rutgers and frosh QB Tom Savage are still on the way up to their peak. One-dimensional Army shouldn't be able to do much against a stout Rutgers run D, and the talent discrepancy on the other side of the ball will show. Scarlet Knights get back to business after last week.

Oklahoma St -9.5 @ Baylor

It's been an eventful and sometimes trying first half for Gundy's crew, but quietly this offense has been putting up points even without two of its biggest weapons. Baylor sans Robert Griffin is a shell of its former self, and can't compete with the talent across panhandle. Zac Robinson keeps the offense humming while the keeping his squad in contention for the Big 12 South title.

Mississippi St +23 vs Florida

The Bulldogs have an new identity and have been playing well, and with a night game at their place there's no better setup for Dan Mullens to show his old boss what he's capable of. The Gators have been going through the motions, and don't think for a second Urban Meyer isn't holding back the concussed-Tebow. Mullens and Meyer have worked together for years, so there's a Tresell/Tiller element at play here as well. This won't be an upset, but they'll cover this large spread.

Washington +10 vs Oregon

The Huskies have been very good at home, and are playing with a real chip on their shoulder this season. Jake Locker is the kind of player who can keep a team in a game by himself, and Sarkisian is the perfect coach for him. The Ducks have been playing very well but haven't been challenged for a few weeks and are due for a tough game. It's still uncertain if Jeromiah Masoli will play, and even if he does he might be a tad rusty.

Northern Illinois -11 @ Miami (OH)

My favorite mid-major is back to business in 2009 - pounding the rock, limiting turnovers, and winning football games. This team plays the right way and isn't going to mess around with Miami, one of the worst teams in FBS. After a tough loss last week, Northern will have their heads on straight and this will turn out to be a profitable business trip.

Tennessee +14.5 @ Alabama

If there's one thing that the Vols promise, its punishing defense. Alabama has been excellent so far but is hardly an offensive juggernaut. They've struggled in recent weeks and it won't stop this week. Vols QB Jonathan Crompton is finally playing like the 5 star recruit that he was, if he plays within himself the senior could finally show something for his storied career. Alabama has been awesome this year, but they're starting to give a few too many points. This game will play like an NFL game - physical and won't be won by more than 14.

SMU +16.5 @ Houston

This is the type of game June Jones was born to coach. SMU can hold it's own in a shootout, and they bring in a very opportunistic defense which forces turnovers. As long as dipshit QB doesn't throw two picks to the house in the 4th quarter, SMU will hang in. I love Houston more than anything but they've already proven they can lost to another wide open mid major from Texas. Keenum won't accept a loss here but they'll have to earn it.

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.6

2009-10-18T09:37:00.002-05:00

Well it is unfortunate that Jerry Jones has come out and said Wade has a job for the rest of the year, I guess he's looking forward to going another year since 1996 to win a playoff game. How bout em?

The Giants with a big road game today in the Big Easy. The winner of this game looks like they could be in the drivers seat for the NFC because there's no way Brett Farve can continue to play like this, he's a 40-yr old man for God's sake.

Another good week last week going 3-1.

Let's get to the picks:
Cincinnati -5.5 vs. Houston - Ochocinco buys up 1200 tickets so the city of Northern Kentucky can watch them kill the Texans.

Homer Pick of the Week:
New York Giants +3 at New Orleans - I'm taking the money line too at +155, still not sure if its a good idea but I believe it is.

Philadelphia -15 at Oakland
Seattle -3 vs. Arizona
New England -9 vs. Tennessee

Hammerin Hank just said that double digit dogs are 2-8 ATS this year, wow.

Baseball Picks:
Cliff Lee over 5.5 Strikeouts

Philadelphia -170 vs. Los Angeles

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 7

2009-10-15T21:22:00.007-05:00

Just the picks this week....as agreed I have removed the ACC from my phone to prevent drunk dials.

Wisconsin -2.5 vs Iowa Badgers hold serve at home, it's time for the Hawks to fall.

Ohio St -14 @ Purdue Buckeyes cover this spread with points off turnovers alone.

Oklahoma +145 vs Texas My boy Bradford's back, call this one revenge from 2008.

Miss St -4.5 @ Mid Tenn St. Bulldogs are re-energized under Dan Mullen, SEC vs Sun Belt usually goes to former

Nevada -9.5 @ Utah State Wolfpack look to make it 3 in a row on the blog, no WAC defense can slow down Kaepernick and the pistol

Houston -17 @ Tulane Dome is made for air strike, Cougars won't mess around in this conference game

Texas A&M -6 @ Kansas St K-State not equipped to slow down Big 12 passing attacks

Florida vs Arkansas U54.5 Gators D will limit Mallett's production, Gators still taking it easy with Tebow

Stanford +170 @ Arizona Harbaugh's crew will be ready to go coming off loss, Arizona finds ways to lose

Washington +230 @ Arizona State Your money is in good hands with Sarkisian and Locker.

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.5

2009-10-09T16:33:00.002-05:00

Another nice week last week going 4-1. I get giddy with the thought that if the Chiefs can win this week, Wade might be gone. I'm not a huge fan of the lines this week but lets see what we can do.

Picks for this week:
Minnesota -10 at St. Louis
Cleveland +6 at Buffalo
San Fran -2.5 vs Atlanta

If Eli plays
Giants -15 vs Oakland

Beat Southlake!

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 6

2009-10-08T11:51:00.012-05:00

I'm leaving the demons of September in the dust after a 6-3 start to October. Let's hope conference season turns out to be as fruitful as it was in '08. So far I've covered the vig and made a bit of bourbon money if you count the money lines. I'm done flirting with teams like Buffalo, Western Michigan, and UTEP. It's time to make some real cash.

The "I've seen enough Thursday night games to know what happens here" pick
Missouri +150 vs. Nebraska
If you've flipped to ESPN on a Thursday night during football season, you already know the angle. Home Team + Underdog + Conference Game = $$$. My advice is to play every Thursday night game where there is a home dog. You may not win them all, but you'll come out ahead.

The "I've been following Big 10 football for 20 years" pick
Michigan +7.5 @ Iowa
Sure, they're undefeated and took care of Penn State. But Iowa isn't anything special, and falls into the good-but-not-great plethora of Big 10 teams. Michigan also falls into that category, and with a loss behind them they're bound to bring Iowa back down to earth. I'm surprisedthis spread is more than TD, if I was flying high I'd probably take the ML but I'm just chipping away so give me the points and the hook.

The "Mid-Major all or nothing" pick
Nevada -10.5 vs Louisiana Tech (Friday Night)
After rolling for 774 yards of offense last week, it's safe to say Nevada is on the rise. It was a tough start to the year against some good competition (Notre Dame, Missouri), but they're about to take their frustrations out on the WAC and Mountain West. Nevada's offense is like the curious high school girl with overly strict parents; once she gets out of the house and moves to college, she goes over the top. In this case its Friday night of the second week of freshman year. Her meteoric rise to notoriety is just gaining momentum before the inevitable second semester crash.

The "Why do I continue to get drunk and hook up with this ugly girl" pick
Florida St -2.5 vs Georgia Tech
I probably win ACC games at a clip of about 20%. Every Sunday I ask myself why I laid money on Maryland or Clemson (and went 0-2) and vow to never do it again. Then, the lines come out and due to lack of better immediate options I get suckered in. This week is no exception. FSU is 1-3 ATS, backs are up against the wall. Bowden and Jimbo will pull this off...right? If I lose this - never again will I take a late night BJ from the ACC.

The "These Guys have been doing it for me for years" pick
Houston +2 @ Mississippi State
Cougar High is one of the reasons I'm making picks today, and QB Case Keenum is a case study for my strategy. The loss to UTEP was the best thing that could have happened to these guys as it will get them re-focused and motivate their defense. Miss St has a good running game but last time I checked, so does Oklahoma State and that didn't seem to matter. The D will play much better than they did last week and Keenum will do what he does.

The "Neuheisel was hired for this" pick
UCLA +140 vs Oregon
This is a typical setup for Oregon; they roll a couple of good teams at home, then hit the inner-conference road and get stymied. We've seen it happen every year to these guys and Slick Rick is the coach I want in this position. His Bruins play excellent defense and the home crowd should provide the extra element to put this one in the books.

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.4

2009-10-02T17:35:00.002-05:00

Well that was a good week, 5-0! Those weeks don't come along to often but when they do you kick yourself for not laying a 5-team parlay paying out 25-1, but hey I'll take 5-0 any day.

There could be alot of shakeup in the NFC East this week, so if the Redskins lose to the hapless Bucs this week does that mean Dan Snyder will be firing Jim Zorn? What about Wade Phillips, will one more bad loss or bad hairdo send him with his bags packing so the Prodigal QB can take over?

Denver +3 vs. Dallas
Per Tony D, Romo's not a good QB, Wade Phillips is not a good coach on one side. Kyle Orton isn't that sweet and the jury is still out on Josh McDaniels, this game will be all about running.

Indianapolis -10.5 vs. Seattle
San Francisco -9.5 vs. St. Louis
Home games against these two NFC West powerhouses equal covers.

Cincinnati -6 at The Cleve
Do your job!

Giants -9 at Kansas City
The giants running game is going to run all over KC. Matt Cassell is going to get hit so hard he'll wish he was still on the bench at USC.

Lee's Locks
Tennessee -3 at Jacksonville
San Diego +6.5 at Pittsburgh
Denver +125 (ML) vs. Dallas

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 5

2009-10-01T12:03:00.041-05:00

Champions Prevail
USC -4.5 @ Cal
In college football, dethroning of a conference king goes beyond statistics (just ask Miami after last week). USC's defense is still unreal, the offense is loaded on talent, and Jeff Tedford is 1-6 vs. the Trojans.

Ohio St - 17 @ Indiana
After the loss to USC sent them to 1-1, Jim Tressel's play calling was called out as too conservative. Since then the Bucks have outscored two opponents 68-0. Think this team is motivated? The Hoosiers don't stand a chance, and The Rock will be publicly violated.

Buying Low
Nevada -4.5 vs UNLV
Last season they were 1-2 heading into this game and rolled the Rebels by 3 TDs (and that was on the road). These guys are due, especially with duel threat QB Colin Kaepernick having the ball in his hands.

Mississippi -9.5 @ Vanderbilt
I'm not sure Vanderbilt will be able to score. They've scored a whopping 9 and 3 points in SEC games and Miss has a nasty defense. Even if the Rebel's offense struggles they'll cover a TD and a field goal.

Florida State -4 @ Boston College
This is a frustrating yet predictable 'Noles team. They perform their best after underwhelming performances.

Seperate the bad from the worse
NC State +1 @ Wake Forest
There are few college QBs better than Russell Wilson (12 TDs, 0 INTS thus far) who is a dynamic passer as well as runner. Even the defense is coming to play, giving up a measly 201.3 yd/game (2nd in the country). This is an opportunity for the Wolfpack to separate themselves from the ACC's 2nd tier and I believe they'll take advantage of this situation.

Toledo -5.5 @ Ball State
Toledo has a decent, veteran offense and a rookie coach out to prove himself. The pantry is bare in Muncie. Trust me on this one.

Shoot 'em Up

Tulsa -15.5 @ Rice

Rice can't find a quarterback, and this point spread is Tulsa's bread and butter. Even Vanderbilt put up 35 on the Owls, what will Todd Graham's guys do?

Texas A&M vs Arkansas (Arlington) O66.5

I don't usually bet overs on games like this but I'm making an exception here. Both teams have shameless offenses while ignoring defense. Add the fact that it's in a neutral spot (Arlington) and has been dubbed the "Southwest Shootout" and there's no way you can convince me these teams don't score at least 5 TDs apiece.

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.3

2009-09-25T17:49:00.002-05:00

Not sure what happened to the picks last week, I asked out College Guru to post them, he must have been to busy worrying about his picks. Last week I was in Vegas, had a nice time actually betting at a window than online.

Baltimore -13 vs Cleveland
Cleveland sucks.

Road Games:
New Orleans -6 at Buffalo
Green Bay -6.5 at St. Louis
Chicago -1.5 at Seattle
Denver -1.5 at Oakland

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 4

2009-09-22T11:25:00.042-05:00

Public Enemy #1 - Bo Levi Mitchell

The board voted unanimously to lay 6 points with SMU last week, and with a 24-7 lead early in the 3rd quarter, the investment looked promising. Apparently we overlooked the fact that an over-matched, talent-less "gunslinger" was leading their offense. Rather than downing the ball 3 times and punting every possesion, Beau threw three INTs including TWO TO THE HOUSE (!) to give the game away. Keep in mind the difficulty of doing this against Washington State - we're talking about a high school team that probably gets knocked out by Tacoma Central in the state semi-finals. Hopefully next time we'll remember never to bet 2-star recruits whose decisions on the field are only rivaled by their poor choices of headgear.

= IDIOT

Auburn vs. West Virginia - Observations from a great game

1) I envy Auburn - How great would it be to be a fan of a team who can win games on their home field advantage alone? Auburn was outplayed on both sides of the ball on Saturday, yet their pedigree and home stadium provided the intangible element to pull this one out. I feel for West Virginia - in the Tiller era this type of thing happened to us countless times. Luckily the Bears win games like this all the time (sorry Steelers), and I love them for it.

2) Jarrett Brown is a man - I know he unfolded in the second half, but this guy looks like a really good college QB. He's big (6'4, 223) with speed, and can make throws too. Too bad this guy is a senior, I'd love to throw money on him for a few more years.

3) Gus Malzahan is a genius - Auburn's OC inherited an absolutely inept offense last year, and has turned them into a point scoring machine. Working with a QB with limited ability, this offense was able to overcome a 14 point lead and turn it into a win. Never in my life would I have thought Auburn capable of this.

4) It's nice to get bailed out for once - I can't take credit for this cover - but I'll take it.

After 3 weeks, here are some of the best and worst teams ATS.

Clemson 3-0 Dabo Swinney is a cool southern gentleman
Auburn 3-0 Team of the year so far
Northern Illinois 3-0 My local team of choice, I'd never play these guys if I were a BCS team
Nebraska 3-0 Easy to hate school and state, hard to hate Bo Pelini
Michigan 3-0 Rich Rod made his first million betting on West Virginia

Down

Notice a trend? Running up the score isn't what is used to be

Penn State 0-3 JoPa taking it easier on the scraps this season
Texas 0-3 Still woodshed beatings, just a little less blood
Utah 0-3 I told you the Utes would be getting too many points
Maryland 0-3 I will never bet another Maryland game - enigma to the extreme

Picks

Michigan -21 vs. Indiana

The Wolverines are back, and Indiana is overmatched. Michigan played poorly last week and still managed to cover. In a middle-heavy Big 10, IU is the only terrible team. Michigan will be ready to start the Big 10 season with a bang.

Oregon St -1.5 vs Arizona

It's usually this time of year that Mike Riley's Beavers get serious about football, and they're not about to let a home game against a peer opponent slip away. The Beavers find ways to win games like this by pounding the run and limiting mistakes, and they're in good hands with Senior QB Sean Canfield.

Buffalo +2.5 @ Temple

Not at all a sexy matchup but Turner Gill is one of the better mid-major coaches around. After the last two losses the Bulls are due for a fundamentally sound game, and against Temple that's all they should need to seal the victory. Temple's home field doesn't scare me, even with Bill Cosby in the ref's ear.

Kansas vs. Southern Miss o57

Both of these teams average over 450 yards per game and have experienced quarterbacks who don't make a lot of mistakes. Kansas's offense has been nearly perfect through 3 games, while Southern Miss has a lot to prove. I can see the spread (Kansas -13.5) going either way but in each event this one should produce a lot of points. The Jayhawks have always done me well, in the fat man I trust.

Clemson -2.5 vs. TCU

I love Clemson this year and I'm going to continue to ride the hot hand. Coach Swinney has all the talented pieces working in conjunction, and this team has moxy (witnessed by a huge road comeback against Georgia Tech). Death Valley is the hardest venue TCU will play in this year and the homefield advantage should get the Tigers going.

Vanderbilt -7 @ Rice

It's been a very slow start to the season for the Commodores, but they should be able to push around Rice sans Chase Clement. Vanderbilt should be able to rush at will against Rice's front 7, and should have their all-around way against a D giving up 45 points per game. Bobby Johnson preached patience during the first 3 weeks, here is where things turnaround for the offense.

The Green Line

My picks for the money line bets...go 2-2 and you're a winner.

Nevada +250 vs Missouri (Friday night)

North Texas +215 vs Mid Tenn State

Wyoming +200 vs UNLV

Oregon +205 vs Cal

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 3

2009-09-16T22:35:00.022-05:00

Week 1 was a crapshoot, Week 2 was watered down. In Week 3 I'm headed back to the winning format, and guaranteeing you at least 4-2.

Texas A&M -19.5 vs Utah State

Texas A&M's offenses is right at home in pass-happy Big 12, and therefore a welcome addition to the blog. QB Jerrod Johnson flew under the radar last year in spite of solid numbers (21 TDs, 10 INTs) and has a favorable matchup against his Aggie counterparts. Mike Sherman has a lot to prove to many people, so expect him to release the arsenal on the visiting team.

Auburn -7 vs West Virginia

Auburn's physical talent running the Tulsa offense? This is a gambler's dream. Two games into the Gus Malzahn era the Tigers are averaging an astonishing 572 yards and 43 points per game. As usual, there's a solid defense to back them up, and with this one at home the crowd provides an intimidating 3rd element. It all adds up to a long day for Jarrett Brown and the Mountaineers.

Iowa St -2.5 @ Kent State

I know the cyclones got pummeled last week, but you better believe Paul Rhoads will have this line tacked up in the locker room. Iowa State still has Big 12 talent, and the game will be in good hands with QB Austen Arnaud. Kent doesn't have what it takes to compete with the BCS teams (34-7 loss to BC last week) and just lost their starting tailback to boot. People remember what they last saw, which was Iowa State's worst. Buy low on Iowa State and you'll be rewarded.

Arizona St -19.5 vs Louisiana-Monroe

After an extremely dissapointing and injury-riddled 2008, the Sun Devils have a lot to prove and enough talent remaining to execute. It starts with the defense for this club, one of the best in the Pac-10 and led by 26 year old man Mike Nixon. ULM and their green QB won't be able to move the ball in this hostile environment and ASU's defense will create opportunities for Danny Sullivan to exploit. You know Dennis Erickson has money on this game - so should you.

SMU - 6 @ Washington State

It's not too often that you see Washington State getting less than a touchdown, so I'm listening to what SMU has to say. Luckily, it appears as though June Jones and his crew are turning a corner in time for this one, headed back to relavency in the football landscape. Last season Jones handed the pigskin to freshman QB Bo Levi Mitchell and threw him to to the wolves. Mitchell had his ups and downs but seems to finally be in control of Jones' run and shoot attack. I've been waiting to play the Mustangs since they hired the mad scientist - I'm hoping I'm not too early. Considering they're taking on one of the worst BCS teams in the last decade, I like my chances.

Dog of the Week

Minnesota +14 vs. California

This is a defining game for Tim Brewster. Now in his 3rd years as Gophers coach, he's got a 3-year starter at QB, a new stadium, and a team which has slowly improved each season. He welcomes a Cal team that's very talented but has tended to struggle away from the left coast the past few seasons. Expect a fired up Gophers team ready to do some damage on Cal's ranking.

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 2

2009-09-10T21:59:00.015-05:00

This week I'm bulking up 12 games. Until I find my groove, it's diversification. Week 2 is usually filled with beat-downs and I'm hoping '09 is no exception.

Lay the Points
Michigan State -14.5 vs Central Michigan D'Antonio's squad too sound for MAC antics
Northwestern -20 vs Eastern Michigan Eastern one of D-1's worst squads, Northwestern's spread offense hits you from all around.
Auburn -14 vs. Mississippi State New coordinator giving life to Auburn's O.
Texas -33 @ Wyoming The Horns rain spears on opponents like these.
Southern Miss -14.5 vs. Central Florida High powered offense backed by good coaching send George O'Leary to the Jameson well.
Tulsa -17 @ New Mexico New Mexico will be lost first half of the season, Tulsa is a machine.
BYU - 18 @ Tulane In the dome Max Hall will toss it around like D. Brees.
Nebraska -21.5 vs. Arkansas State Bo Pelini's challenge will inspire the D, Husker Nation won't accept less than a woodshed beating.
Kansas -12 @ UTEP Senior-laden Kansas won't mess around with mistake-prone UTEP and the ghost of Mike Price.

Close but not afraid to call it
Ohio -3 @ North Texas Frank Solich doesn't start seasons 0-2
Western Michigan +1.5 @ Indiana Betting against IU is a lucrative profession

Pray for the Cover
San Jose State +14 vs. Utah Spartans kill on this blog, defense will slow down Utah and senior QB might orchestrate the upset

Picks from Peter King's Ass: Vol 3.1

2009-09-09T18:37:00.002-05:00

Welcome back to another exciting year of Pick’s from Peter Kings Ass. Hopefully this year we can make you some money. At this point I’m going back through my records of last year to gather my stats. I won’t post those till next week once I’m done. The first week is always the hardest, especially because there will be a few teams that will surprise for the good and for the bad. We’ll take a stab this week but be hesitant, like Michael Vick at a dog fight.

These are the picks I like:
New England -10 vs. Buffalo
With Tom Brady back in the line up and T.O. still being a bitch, look for Brady and Co to roll through Buffalo. Bill Belichick will have his team ready to go, while the Buffalo coaching staff looks like a high school with the Turk Schonet and Dick Jauron acting like they are high schoolers.

Philadelphia -1 vs. Carolina
Donovan McNabb and Westbrook will be firing on all cylinders while take care of Peppers and the Carolina defense.

Minnesota -4 @ The Cleve
I would only hope that the Browns at least break 24 quarter touchdown less streak this week against Minnesota but who knows, if T.O.’s tweet is correct Brady Quinn might be ready to breakout but it won’t happen week 1.

Tampa Bay +6 vs. Dallas
Running backs by committee might be the thing needed to stymie the Cowboys defense, just pounding it down the defense.

Driving with Dontѐ: Suicide Picks
The first week I always just take one of the larger spread teams. They should win heads up but might not always cover, the good thing is it doesn’t matter if they cover.

Suicide Picks:
1. Baltimore
2. New Orleans
3. New England

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 3 Number 1

2009-09-01T22:13:00.014-05:00

Welcome to Autumn! As usual, be weary of week 1. Along with the unknown squads, there's the intangible factor of week 1 and the always difficult to predict non-conference showdowns. Weeks 2 and 3 will have more calculated options, so plan on raising the stakes next week. Still, there are few this weekend that I really like.

NC State -4.5 vs South Carolina (Thursday 6:00 CST)
One of my picks to click this season, the Wolfpack start off in a good position to continue their hot streak from last season. Defending their home turf at night against a formidable opponent, expect to see get their best, which is at least 4.5 points better than South Carolina's. Spurrier should have never quit Florida, and the end is looming.

UTEP - 7.5 vs Buffalo (Saturday 8:00 CST)
So here's the setup. MAC team treks south of the Mason-Dixon to take on a run-and-gun Conference USA team. These situations do not typically go the MAC's way ( see Ball State/Tulsa and Western Michigan/Rice in 2008 bowl season). UTEP is also playing in their home stadium at night (a winning formula) and has an experienced quarterback to lead the charge. Bufallo had a nice run last year but lost their quarterback. Hopefully you got this one at 7, but I don't think it will matter.

Maryland + 21.5 @ California (Saturday 9:00 CST)
King Ralph Friedgen and the Terps must have frustrated their fans plenty the last few years, but I will give them this: they come to play when they're huge underdogs. They've got a savvy QB in Chris Turner and a decent amount of talent to work with. They'll probably lose to James Madison next week, but they'll be ready for this one. Use this seesaw program to your advantage this week.

Clemson -18.5 vs. Middle Tennesse State (Saturday 5:00 CST)
After burning me a few times last year, Clemson owes me. With plenty of talent and a new 39-year old up-and-coming head coach, the Tigers will come out and prove that 2008 was a fluke. Death Valley is a hard place to play, and RB CJ Spiller should erupt against a much weaker opponent. Akin to a scrimmage, this one fits into a classic winning gambling model: BCS power team laying points against mid-major, at home, early in the season.

Texas A&M - 14 vs New Mexico (Saturday 6:00 CST)
This one also fits into the aforementioned model, as the Aggies should be able to cover 2 TDs in front of the 12th man. QB Jerrod Johnson is yet another Big 12 arm who can chuck it around, and I don't expect New Mexico's secondary to handle him. New Mexico has a new coach, a completely different system, and a QB who hasn't played in 2 years. Things may get better but this isn't a good spot for them.

Hater of the week
North Texas +16.5 vs Ball State
This is not last year's Ball State - coach and QB are gone - and I really don't believe they should be laying 16.5 to anyone. Then again, North Texas was one of the worst team's in D1 last year. Still, I'll take southern 2 stars over midwestern ones. Maybe make a small play here, but for heavens sake don't tell a soul.

2009 NCAA Gamblers Guide

2009-08-16T18:04:00.029-05:00

So we find ourselves in mid-August. For most football fans this time period involves intense study of future fantasy matchups, the annual Madden purchase, and the over-reaction to NFL preseason games (what was that throw Cutler!?). Might I also suggest investing in the fund which is assured to return the best quarterly profit of the year. This goes by Betting on College Football (Nasdaq: BOCF).

This season has potential to be a very profitable one, on the basis of many known commodities on the landscape. There are many familiar faces, starting with Tim Tebow (did you know that he, not Jesus Christ, is the son of God? If you didn't know just ask any announcer in America) and my guy Sam Bradford. Moving down the food chain you'll find a multitude of experienced quarterbacks throughout all conferences. Many of these kids have done it for me before and I'm ready to send them to work one more time.

It's sad to say, but other than Minnesota I don't have a single Big 10 team on this list. No worries though - once inner conference games begin, everything will predicatably fall into place.

As a disclaimer, here are my numbers ATS over the last 3 years. These are just NCAA football bets, straight bets Against The Spread. I am not your guy for NFL, I'll leave that up to the Webmaster.

2006: 8-12-1; 40% (luckily this was in my $10 days)
2007: 27-22; 55.1%
2008: 62-43; 59.05%

This year it's 60% or bust. Here are the horses that I am hoping will take me to the feeding.

Cash Cows
OKLAHOMA, FLORIDA, and TEXAS - These teams absolutely smashed their ways through the regular season last year, and all three return their signal callers and much supporting staff. These blue chips went 12-3 ATS for me last year and there's no reason not to expect more of the same.

Rainmakers
HOUSTON - Take out the predictable Big 10 and my favorite conference to bet is C-USA. My pick this year is a familar one. QB Case Keenum returns to lead an attack which finished #2 in total offense last year in all of D1. Now that Chase Clememt of Rice has graduated, the title of "best mid-major southern QB" is his to assume. That title also affords him an unlimited buffet of southern belle box, even if they are Colt McCoy's rejects.

BAYLOR - The Houston and Texas themes continue here, starting with head coach Art Briles. He's got Baylor headed in the right direction, and year 2 of his regime will return more tangible results. QB Robert Griffin is basically Terrelle Prior without the hype, expect to hear a lot more about this kid in the coming months.

NC STATE - A program which had struggled the last few years seems to have hit its groove mid-season last year, winning 4 of their last 5 on the heels of freshman QB Russell Wilson. The first-team all ACC QB is exceptional and is just one of 7 starters returning on offense. The defense also returns 6 starters. The core is in place for the Wolfpack to carry over the momentum from last year into 2009.

SOUTHERN MISS - The Golden Eagles also closed 2008 with a bang, winning 5 in a row including a bowl win over the underrated men of Troy. Head coach Larry Fedora goes into his second year with 16 returning starters, including QB Austin Davis, the triggerman to Fedora's spread attack. Conference USA team with an explosive offense? Sign me up.

BYU - The Cougars went into 2008 with high expectations, but finishing 10-3 was considered a disappointment. Now that they're back under the radar, I expect them to revert to their 2007 form. Senior QB Max Hall has been doing this for a few years, so the potential is there for great things.

Intriguing Prospects
STANFORD - Jim Harbaugh is turning things around in Palo Alto, his third year might be the one where they break it open.

MINNESOTA - Brewster's squad got the job done for me last year (3-1 ATS), and the new open air stadium should provide motivation and a home field advantage.

FLORIDA STATE - They started to look like the FSU of old again last year, they might crack the top 10 if things go right.

UTEP - Just another high scoring mid-major with an experienced QB in the state of Texas. Take a guess about my feelings here.

KANSAS - Tood Ressing's last stand, over the hangover from 2007, 14 starters returning, don't forget about the Jayhawks.

WASHINGTON - Yes, they were winless last year...but Ty is out, Jake Locker is back, and with a new coach - who knows? At a very minimum they might cover a few large spreads.

SMU - June Jones is a mad-genius, and a founding father on which my strategy is predicated. He threw his freshman QB to the wolves last year but that might have been the best way to setup a spread-friendly 2010, something Mr. Jones clearly condones.

Just stay away, please

BALL STATE - One year wonders were exposed in the bowl game, head coach and QB gone. Just a bunch of Purdue and IU rejects left on this team.

LOUISVILLE- Team Papa John's few years in the spotlight ended 2 years ago, at this point the book has been slammed shut. Stick to hoops.

TEXAS TECH - Mike Leach's work to improve the program came to a head last year. But like many of its kind, they were proved a fraud in the bowl game. A la Purdue 2004, you had your chance and you blew it. Talk to you in 20 years.

UTAH - They'll still be solid, but don't put them on a pedestal in spite of beating down Alabama. They lost their (very underrated) QB and will have a huge target on their back this season.

I don't need the strategy guide anymore: a blog by Viper

2009-07-15T18:27:00.001-05:00

Two pirates in the all-star game that is shit. I mean Zack Duke with a 8-8 record (worst among all-star pitchers). 3.29 ERA (decent) and a wait for it ohh 65K's(shits weak) oh then there is Freddy Sanchez .316 avg (good) 6hr (ok he plays second base) 34RBI (believe it or not he is not the lowest all-star). I know every team gets one player, but this is just stupid. Trading away your players before the break is not an excuse either. The only thing I can think of is MLB is feeling bad for the Pirates and is banking that maybe if we give them hope with two all-stars it will turn one of the worst franchises in pro sports around.

Yes Dan I know that Cleveland is searching for a first championship in our life time, but even you have to admit two Pirates?

2009-07-06T22:50:00.013-05:00

Unless you have a serious problem, then sports gambling is dead until the last weekend in August. In the meantime I'm testing a more interactive approach to the college football blog. I think it's safe to say that Japan would be a 16 seed in the "All Country Fight" tournament

Post-Tournament Quips

2009-04-07T08:37:00.002-05:00

-The manner in which MSU competed against North Carolina can't be a good sign for the Michigan economy (national economy?) If you weren't aware, 2008 was a difficult year.

-Kimba Walker will get busted for point shaving before his college career is over. That or shunned by his teammates dropping such a massive dump in his shorts during the semi's.

-Scottie Reynolds can dribble fast. And in control. Pretty amazing play.

-The reason they only show Erin Andrews from the waste up is simple: Her pancake butt seen in high def can cause the shakes, induce vomiting, or just make you say YUCK and beg for Charissa Thompson.

-Blake Griffin is a rich man's Carlos Boozer. He's taller, looks to have a decent mid range jumper, and can finish better than anyone I can remember. If I were him, I'd demand a 'Griffin Boys' package, so that his brother can have a cup of coffee too.

-Please put Clark Kellogg back in the studio. Please.

-If you didn't catch the OSU / Sienna game in the first round, you missed some history. BJ Mullens got the most minutes he'll see for the next 5 yrs. (NBADL not included): 14 minutes off the bench. And he's a LOTTERY PICK. Apparently there's a real need for Kwame Brown-esque bigmen right now: Good feet, soft as shit, no defensive ability, no heart, unneccearily hot-headed.

-Baseball is here.

Final Four

2009-04-04T14:24:00.002-05:00

My picks for the Final Four:

Villanova +7 vs. North Carolina
I really like Nova to win this game out right, I'll be taking the money line at +280

Connecticut -4.5 vs. Michigan State
Sorry Tom, your season ends today.

My Fast-Casual Crisis: a blog by Viper

2009-04-04T08:09:00.002-05:00

I wanted to give a gift of Thank You to a friend. This person who, recently purchased a home in Cincinnati. It would be a Gift from all of us that recently visited her humbled House. I figured, since I am not from the Natti (sorry) that it, would be great to buy her a $50 gift card to Applebee's. I mean, who know's what restaurants they have in the Natti?

WELL it turns out no one thought this gift was a good one. I mean, am I the only one to step up and get something for Her in a good will gesture? Why is it that I get Slammed for showing the initiative in the situation?

(ed. note - With "Slammed", Viper is referring to the following comments: "Applebee's? Are you f'king serious?", "Were they out of gift cards to the Sizzler?", "You might as well got her a gift certificate to the car wash, at least that way she would use it", "A gift card to Applebee's is as good as a smack in the face", "Sarah hates jalapeno poppers", "Why not get her an Edible Arrangement?", "You couldn't possibly represent our taste more poorly than by sending an Applebee's gift card", and "This is a TERRIBLE gift."

I don't need the strategy guide anymore: a blog by Viper

2009-03-30T20:24:00.000-05:00

In case you guys missed this.

Jeff George at the ripe old age of 41 is lobbying for a starting QB job.

He even went as far as to say this...

“If I was in Minnesota,” George said, “I guarantee I’d be wearing a ring right now. I just can’t get over why somebody like [coach] Brad Childress wouldn’t take a look at me and have me as the third guy on their roster. Put me in and I’ll pick up right where I left off in ’99, but this time with Adrian Peterson, so I wouldn’t have to throw it nearly as much.”

and this...

As for his incredibly gifted right arm, George insisted it’s nearly as potent as it ever was. “I can probably chuck it 78 yards,” he said, “compared to when I was coming out [of college] and could throw it 85.”

The full report

I also liked this quote from the ESPN article Stop the Madness

"I've been trying to figure out how to get back in, and it just amazes me that I'm not on somebody's roster. I've been throwing two or three times a week, and every time I go out there to throw, I can't believe I'm not a backup somewhere. I know it's a young man's game, but you can't tell me I'm not better than some of the quarterbacks that are out there. I look at teams like Minnesota or Chicago, and I want to scream at the people in charge, 'What are you thinking?' "

Saturday Games

2009-03-21T09:31:00.002-05:00

Well how about them Flyers! Yesterday was an unbelievable day as the Flyers stormed to victory over Bobby and his Mountaineers. Hopefully you loaded up on that +375 money line, or maybe you got in at +400 (what it closed at).

Saturday's got some intriguing matchups and these are the 4 I like.

Villanova -3 vs. UCLA @ Philadelphia
Both teams struggled in their 1st round games, but look for Villanova to come through and cover the spread down the stretch.

North Carolina -11.5 vs. LSU @ Greensboro
The Tar Holes are playing in their backyard and this is be Tyler's last game in the area, look for him to go out with a bang.

Texas +7.5 vs. Duke @ Greensboro
I think all the Tar Hole fans will be sticking around after they win to root for the Longhorns against Duke, I am as well. AJ Abrams will light it up again today.

Purdue +1.5 vs. Washington @ Portland
The young guns of Purdue struggled a bit on Thursday, look for them to get over the butterflies and come out and handle Washinton.

That's it, again GO FLYERS!

We are UD!

Drunk Driving with Huggie Bear: Day 2

2009-03-19T21:31:00.002-05:00

Not a bad start to the day, through the start of the last round of games tonight, I'm 3-2 with VCU still running, hit the Michigan money line (the look on Oliver Purnells face when his player got ejected was priceless), and so far am 11 of 12 in my picks. That can easily turn at the drop of the hat tomorrow though.

The games I like tomorrow:

Utah State +4.5 vs. Marquette @ Boise
It's been a tough last few weeks for Marquette, look for tomorrow to be just as tough.

USC -2.5 vs. Boston College @ Minneapolis
Ohio State -3 vs. Siena @ Dayton

Game of the Day:
Dayton +9 vs. West Virginia @ Minneapolis
I've got to go with the alma mater on this one, my pride is probably blinding me to the beat down that could happen but I have to take the points against West Virginia. Chris Wright and the Flyers might take flight tomorrow, but the one thing for sure that will take flight is Bob Huggin's BAC after the game on his drive home.

I also am a little tempted at the +375 ML on Dayton, almost too hard to pass up.

Go Flyers!

Drunk Driving with Huggie Bear: Day 1

2009-03-18T20:14:00.006-05:00

Couple of things I'd like to ponder. If people all ready make fun of being in the NIT, how come there are now 4 post season tournaments. We have the grand daddy NCAA Tournament, the step brother NIT, and now the CBI and College Basketball Insider Tournaments? What does that make the two of them abused children of Buffalo Bill? How does any self respecting Coach allow his team to play in the CBI or College Basketball Insider, does not it cost the university to play in these?

Well either way, they will probably be gone in a year or two and we will be back to the NCAA Tournament and the NIT.

The Drunk Driving w/ Huggie Bear Bracket:

Final Four: Louisville, Missouri, Xavier, and Oklahoma
Winner: Louisville over Oklahoma

My picks for tomorrow:
Michigan +5 vs. Clemson @ Kansas City
Oliver Purnell will continue is streak of not winning in the NCAA Tournament, if you are really feeling it take Michigan +190, I am.

Texas -4 vs. Minnesota @ Greensboro
The Longhorns have struggled at times this year, even losing to lowly Notre Dame when they were both ranked in the top 15. However, don't look for AJ Abrams to give up this easy on his career and Tubby Smith isn't in Kentucky anymore.

Maryland +1.5 vs. California @ Kansas City
Butler +2 vs. LSU @ Greensboro
I am liking these two to cover and win outright tomorrow. Maryland and Butler both have done this before and Les Miles isn't coaching LSU so they aren't going to be able to win when it matters.

Purdue -8.5 vs. Northern Iowa @ Portland
The Boilermakers are a young squad that was here last year, look for them to take care of Northern Iowa.

VCU +270 vs. UCLA @ Philadelphia
My risky play of the day, VCU is everyone's darling for the upset pick tomorrow. Getting 2.7 to 1 on your money is a nice proposition as well.

Don't forget to buckle up.

The Fourth Annual N.A.D. Buster

2009-03-15T19:52:00.003-05:00

Please feel free to sign up.

Hello Fellow N.A.D. Reader,

The Webmaster would like you to join their group in Yahoo! Sports Tournament Pick'em!

To accept the invitation, just follow this link. For reference, here's the group information.

Group ID#: 47969

-- Tournament Pick'em Commissioner

Drunk Driving with Huggie Bear Part Duex

2009-03-14T11:58:00.002-05:00

Well, got beat a bit yesterday. Maybe the hangover from being out with Huggie Bear clouded my judgement.

I like these games for Saturday:

Maryland +8 vs. Duke
Louisville -6.5 vs. Syracuse
Purdue -3.5 vs. Illinois
Missouri -5 vs. Baylor

Good luck and get drunk

Big 10 Picks - Friday

2009-03-13T10:32:00.008-05:00

2 of 3 isn't bad - foolish of me to have picked I-AA Indiana to cover. Today, the real bracket begins.

Michigan St -7.5 vs. Minnesota
The Spartans are the cream of the crop in the Big 10 and will be all business for this game. Their D will lock down Minnesota's permimeter players, while Kalen Lucas allows his speed to be the difference in this one.

Wisconsin -2 vs. Ohio State
These two teams are in stark contrast to one another, but in the rough and tumble Big 10, the Badger's style is king. Ohio State's defense is suspect, and Wisconsin's physical D will give Turner and company fits.

Michigan +2.5 vs. Illinois
The Wolverines got it done for me in a big way yesterday, so I'm riding Beline's squad one more day. If Michigan plays within itself and hits their shots they are tough to beat. Illinois is very good but has overacheived thus far. I'm calling for the upset.

Purdue -7 vs. Penn State
I'm not scared of this matchup for my Boilers. Penn State may have squeeked one out in Happy Valley, but with Kramer and Hummel in the lineup, the Nittany Lions won't be able to produce much on the offensive end. BTFU.

Drunk Driving with Huggie Bear

2009-03-12T21:19:00.004-05:00

Well I just left the hotel bar where I was pounding Jim Beam, Ice, Water and toasting to World Peace with Bob Huggins, when he preceded to go outside and hail a cab. He made the cab driver move over and he hopped in the front seat and went screaming down 5th Ave.

Not a bad start going 3-1 yesterday, so much for Bill Self having Kansas ready to play. Baylor? Really?

Games I like on Friday the 13th:

Illinois -4 vs. Michigan @ Indianapolis
Muck Fichigan

_avier -4.5 vs. Temple @ Atlantic City
_avier Sucks rolls to another A-10 final

Texas -3.5 vs. Baylor @ Oklahoma City
Can Baylor make it two in a row? I doubt it.

Dayton vs. Duquesne @ Atlantic City
The Flyers just covered -4.5 against Richmond, look for them to take care of business for a rematch with rival _avier.

Big 10 Picks - Thursday

2009-03-12T11:16:00.008-05:00

I'm sticking to my roots for College Hoops posts, so here are my picks for the Big Ten tournament. I'll let Ken handle the Big 12 and the 33 teams in the Big East.

Minnesota vs Northwestern (No Line, game was 5-4 when I wrote this)
These teams split during the regular season, both holding down their home courts. The Gophers started 16-1 but have only gone 5-8 since. They need this one or else they're NIT bound. Northwestern's perimeter D is tough, but Tubby make's sure his guys take this one and go dancing.

Michigan -5 vs Iowa
These teams have also split, both winning at home. Michigan is a scary team to bet, they're the type of team that can beat just about anyone but also lost to just about anyone. Regardless, Manny Harris and company have too much talent for the Hawks. DeShawn Sims should have a big day in the block. Iowa can be tough at home but on a neutral court, Jake Kelly and the boys won't have what it takes.

Penn State -9 vs Indiana
This has been my favorite year of Indiana basketball, and I'd love nothing more than an upset here so my Boilers can kick the crap out of Crean's bunch tomorrow. Penn State won both games between these teams this season but barely held off the Hoosiers at home. I'll also admit it, IU is playing better as the season progresses. Penn State will pull this off but it will be kinda close.

Thursday Conference Tournament Action

2009-03-11T22:07:00.002-05:00

Thursday Conference Tournament Action

Well it is March and it is time for a month of college basketball as dance tickets get punched and dreams shattered. There are teams on the rise and teams that have finally hit the bottom after being ranked in the top 10 this year (Notre Dame).

These are my picks for tomorrows games:
Louisville -11 vs. Providence @ MSG
I like Louisville to win it all, Rick Pinto gets the job down and knows how to win games in March.

Xavier -11 vs. St. Louis @ Atlantic City
Sean Miller and the rest of the shithead Xavier team will roll through St. Louis like the Atlantic City hookers roll through drunk Johns all week.

Kansas -9 vs. Baylor @ Oklahoma City
Bill Self has the Jayhawks playing pretty well at the time, look them to be focused and ready to slam Baylor.

Dayton vs. Richmond
No line on the game yet, because Richmond just finished playing, but take the Flyers.

I don't need the strategy guide anymore: a blog by Viper

2009-02-26T16:41:00.002-06:00

This week The Viper takes on Shaun Rogers.

His nick name is Big Baby for a reason. Well he will have to suck it
up the Browns cant afford the cap hit of 9.7million by releasing him.
Here we go again another Browns coach with an ego so big...I thought
we just went thought this a few years ago with one of my least
favorite coaches ever MR. Butch Davis.
As for Mangina he better get his head out of his ass and humble
himself pretty damn quick.

Ricky Williams, Vince Young, Shaun Rogers = head cases....Thanks Texas.

I don't need the strategy guide anymore: a blog by Viper

2009-02-18T15:27:00.004-06:00

We've got a guest columnist today: The Viper

Franchising Ced Benson is my pick.

Like you said cut 9 months earlier coupled with the rumors he is a huge underachiever/bust. You would pay him Top 5 running back money 6.5m. Take in account it looks like the Bengals will try to bring back the really bad offensive line they put out in the 2008 season.

Now He did have three games where he rushed for over 100yards, but they were against the Browns, Chiefs, and Jaguars. When facing teams with defense he rushed for 35 (Pittsburgh 2nd game) 17(Baltimore he was not on the team for the first game) 30(Dallas) and 42(Eagles)

Lets not forget the 2 TD's O, but wait there were 2 fumbles to boot.

Plus with Fred Taylor and My Favorite Deuce McAllister now free agents who are both proven backs just sums up why this would make Benson the most hilarious Franchise tag in years.

Why not Franchise your leading scorer Graham with 78pts. Next closest mind you was 24pts tie between TJ and Johnson..Fitzpatrick came in with 12pts this is also a really funny stat.

Plus the Seahawks Franchised their kicker in 2007.

State of the Union

2009-01-22T09:50:00.034-06:00

"The Big Game" is upon us, which means one week too many of overblown hype and storylines that no one really cares about. While everyone else is discussing Kurt Warner's hall of fame credentials, the steak-head in me is focusing more on the league and it's individual parts. I write this will sitting in Terminal C of Boston Logan airport, waiting for my delayed United flight to board, one week after sitting in Terminal A of O’Hare airport, waiting for my delayed flight – so I assure you I’d typically have more to do than come up with this random assessment. But after almost 5 years of being a free man and developing a one-to-one relationship with alcohol and football, it is time for some reflection.

My initial goal was to rank all 32 NFL teams in order of best-to-worst franchises over the last 5 years. What I ended up with was a grouping of franchises into seven categories of quality. I first did this based on perception and memory, then reviewed the records, playoff appearances, super bowl appearances, and titles over that time span. The seven categories:

Elite – The premier teams of the era

Consistently Excellent – An excellent product year after year

Consistently Competitive – A contender almost every season, though a few poor runs or inability to “get over the top” limited them from leaping into the top 2 categories

Inconsistently Competitive – The franchise had its moments, but there was just as much bad as good.

Non Competitive – Never competed for anything really legitimate, but had a few big upsets or highlight reels to be above the bottom

Bad – Awful franchises but not quite….

Brown Baggers/Anti Elite – They will also be remembered for years to come, but for all the wrong reasons.

Here are the categories and the teams within them. The teams are listed by overall ranking. Also some general observations at the bottom.

Elite
1) Patriots (63-17, 4, 2, 1) - Colts and Steelers have caught up but still the best.
2) Colts (63-17, 5, 1, 1) - Regular season record and playoff appearances practically perfect; token super bowl keeps them up here, but Manning should have accomplished more.
3) Steelers (56-24, 4, 2, 1) - By punching their ticket last weekend, Pittsburgh moved up a notch to create a trifecta at the top.

Consistently Excellent
4) Giants (47-33, 4, 1, 1) Regular season win count is a little low, but 4 playoff appearances and a super bowl title secures the spot; I'm still skeptical if last year was a magic carpet ride
5) Chargers (54-27, 4, 0, 0) Built well, but couldn't find the proper mix of coaching. Marty great in regular season but playoff choker; Norv putzed through the regular season, pulled a few playoff upsets but ran out of gas.

Consistently Competitive
6) Seahawks (45-35, 4, 1, 0) – 4 Division titles is strong, even if division was weak.
7) Eagles (46-34, 3, 1, 0) - A poor man's Chargers, just couldn't quite get it done.
8) Broncos (47-37, 2, 0, 0) - Clearly, McDaniels' age provides the sex appeal Denver knew it was losing by firing Shanahan.
9) Bears (45-35, 2, 1, 0) - Defense is better at whining and cashing paychecks than playing.
10) Jags (45-35, 2, 0, 0) - Del Rio has weekly nightmares about Peyton Mannning
11) Panthers (45-35, 2, 0, 0) - Solid team but lacking token Super Bowl run (last one missed cut, 6 years ago)
12) Cowboys (46-34, 2, 0, 0) - Don't overrate America's team just because of their marketability.
13) Ravens (44-36, 2, 0, 0) - This might be my new favorite NFL team behind the Bears.

Inconsistently Competitive
14) Packers (41-39, 2, 0, 0) - Brett Favre set this franchise back*. Cheeseheads who worship him unconditionally are ignorant, fat, and pathetic.
15) Vikings (41-39, 2, 0, 0) - Brad Childress is an awful coach, without Purple Jesus they wouldn't be over the love boat scandal.
16) Titans (40-40, 2, 0, 0) - A poor man's Bears.
17) Bucs (38-42, 0, 0) - Just a weird, unpredicatable team. They can beat anyone and shit the bed against anyone.
18) Falcons (41-39, 0, 0) - A product of two eras (Vick, Ryan) with an awful year in between.
19) Jets (37-43, 2, 0, 0) - If these guys sign John David Booty, they'll be in good shape.
20) Bengals (38-42, 1, 0, 0) - Only the Bengals could produce such pathetic results with so much offensive talent.

21) Cardinals (33-47, 1, 1, 0) - The Cardinal's Super Bowl appearance is akin to Smar's fantasy championship
22) Saints (36-44, 1, 0, 0) - Been better since Brees arrived, but not as much as you think.
23) Redskins (38-42, 1, 0, 0) - Speaking of Smar - Snyder is the real-life Madden GM.

Non- Competitive
24) Chiefs (32-48, 1, 0, 0) - Franchise is falling away from relevancy
25) Bills (35-45, 0, 0, 0) - Dick Jauron aka "Mr 7-9" provides the ultimate blue balls for Buffalo fans*
26) Dolphins (31-49, 1, 0, 0) - They'll be okay until Pennington's arm falls off.
27) Texans (31-49, 0, 0, 0) - They should be on the way up...but something tells me they won't be.

Bad
28) Browns (28-52, 0, 0, 0) - Cleveland deserves better than this
29) Rams (27-53, 0, 0, 0) - Just another gimmicky dome team, except much worse.
30) Niners (25-55, 0, 0, 0) - I see Singletary turning into the Scott Skiles of the NFL.

Anti-Elite
31) Raiders (20-60, 0, 0, 0) – They'll remain here until Al Davis dies.
32) Lions (21-59, 0, 0, 0) - Detroit has managed to do this while playing in a subpar division, thus they take the basement room.

League Observations

1) The only way to become an elite or excellent franchise is to have consistency at QB
All teams from the top 2 levels have had consistency at the QB position over the last 5 years, while 6 of 8 from the third level have had this. This doesn't necesarilly mean the same QB over the past 5 seasons, it just means when the starter was entrenched he wasn't challenged on a weekly basis (Denver with Plummer to Cutler, Cowboys with Romo to Bledsoe). Only the Bears and Ravens have managed to be consistently competitive with more than 2 QBs having started a good chunk of games. Conversely, only 5 teams Inconsistently Good or worse (Packers, Saints, Rams, Falcons, and Bengals) have had constency at this position over this period of time.

2) The NFC has been a puddle of mediocre parody, while the AFC has been polarizing
75% of the NFC teams (12) fall into the third and fourth categories. Not sure what this means - but if anything, 12 fan bases have had something to chear about over the last 5 years. I may have elevated the G-Men based on the title, but for the majority of this time frame they've made a baker's dozen here. All in all it comes out to mediocrity but unpredictable. The AFC has been like clockwork - the Pats and Colts are great, the Browns and Texans suck.

Personal Riffs
Herm Edwards got away with highway robbery by getting the Chiefs gig - Five years ago, the Chiefs would have been on the Consistently Competitive list. For some reason Herm Edwards was brought in and has dropped them two levels - and the fall hasn't stopped. The Chiefs are quickly headed for "Bad" territory

Brett Favre set the Packers back by 5 years - The numbers don't lie - he hasn't been good at all during the stretch of time. I don't want to hear about his 2007 season either, as I remember him throwing up wounded ducks to Giant DBs late in the NFC playoffs that year. Of the 5 teams mentioned at the tail end of point 1, only the Packers were led by the same QB at least 4 of the years and didn't miss significant time with injuries.

Lovie Smith and Donovan McNabb get ridiculed way too much - I know I'm coming across as a reverse racist Chicago homer right now - but Lovie's been able to churn out a competitive team with crap at the quarterback position, which goes directly against the trends seen in the NFL. On a national level, you rarely here a QB more often criticized than McNabb, yet his team is always in the hunt. The old man from #3 gets a pass while McNabb get dumped on; incredibly stupid. I'll also shoutout to Brian Billick for the same reason as Lovie.

Dick Jauron is not a top 5 coach - A certain sports personality, on a certain radio station, who coached a certain 2nd grade DYBA Cubs team to the championship in 1990, is wrong. Unless you're into going 7-9 or elevating expectations only to have the results fall flat, Dick Jauron is not a top 5 coach.

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.CC

2009-01-16T15:49:00.002-06:00

Since I've been as bad as Bill Simmons in picking games this post season we'll see if I can't redeem myself this weekend.

The Super Bowl is going to be a battle of the Keystone State.

I like:
Philadelphia -4.5 @ Arizona
Baltimore +6 @ Pittsburgh

I think Baltimore will cover but will not win outright.

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.DP

2009-01-09T18:14:00.002-06:00

Divisional Playoffs:
Baltimore +3 @ Tennessee
Carolina -10 vs. Arizona
NY Giants -4 vs. Philadelphia
Pittsburgh -6 vs. San Diego

I also like a 4-team teaser with all the home teams.

KB

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.WC

2009-01-03T01:05:00.003-06:00

Well it's Wild Card weekend. 4 games, 4 road favorites. Tough to say if the home teams will show up this weekend. We could get Old Kurt Warner or Slow Donovan McNabb so who knows what could go down this weekend, it wouldn't surprise me to see the home teams win a few outright.

Frankie's Picks
Atlanta Pick @ Arizona
Indianapolis -1 @ San Diego
Miami +3 vs. Baltimore
Minnesota +3 vs. Philadelphia

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.17

2008-12-26T09:01:00.002-06:00

Well first Merry Christmas to everyone, hopefully you've had a safe and happy holidays. Now to the last week of the season. It's going to be a little tough on the games this week, because we aren't always sure whos going to show up or actually play this week. Anyways, off to the picks.

Game 1:
Chicago +3 @ Houston
The Bears have to win this game for them to even be considered for the playoffs, after the big win on Monday I see Chicago rolling through Houston.

Game 2:
Giants +7 @ Minnesota
The Super Bowl Champs and #1 seed in the NFC might rest some players this weekend, but I don't see them losing by more than a TD against Travaris Jackson and co.

Game 3:
Philadelphia -1.5 vs. Dallas
If the rumors from last year are true, let's get ready to welcome in the Jason Garrett head coaching experience.

Game 4:
Miami +3 @ New York Jets
The triumphant return of Chad Pennington this week in Jersey should be enough to drive enough Jets fans to jump on the Brooklyn Bridge, we can only hope.

2008 Bowl Special

2008-12-12T17:01:00.034-06:00

I really like a lot of these matchups, it appears to be one of the better bowl slates in a long time. I expect the Big 12's offenses to be exposed, the local teams to have the edge, and Colt McCoy to "Colt McCoy" at least 6 women in the Phoenix area.

TOP PICKS

TEXAS BOWL - Dec 30, 7:00 - Houston
Rice-3 vs Western Michigan
It's that time of year where you have to recognize what got you here. Rice and Chase Clement (4-1 ATS for me) have given me plenty to smile about this season. The Owls boast the 9th ranked passing offense in the country and shouldnt have a problem moving the ball on the Bronco's D. Rice should feel right at home playing in their hometown of Houston and are sure to head out with a chip on their shoulder. It's been a fine career for Clement and he sums it up appropriately with a convincing win for the home town fans.

PAPAJOHNS.COM - Dec 29, 2:00 - Birmingham
NC State vs Rutgers O53
Both of these teams have been on fire the second half of the season, which should make for a lot of fireworks. Rutgers has averaged 46.2 points per game over their last 5 and is 6-0 since October 18th. NC State has won 4 in a row, averaging 31.8 points per game over that stretch. Rutgers QB Mike Teel is a senior and looks to go out with a bang, while phenom Freshman Russell Wilson of NC ST (16 TDs, 1 INT) looks to put his name on the map.

PEACH - Dec 31, 6:30 - Atlanta
Georgia Tech -4 vs LSU
The Yellow Jackets have been a pleasant surprise this season, finishing as the highest ranked team in the ACC after pre-season predictions in the lower half. Credit has to go to Paul Johnson's re-invention of the option attack and the physical play the Jackets bring on both sides of the ball. They've proven they can play with the SEC after beating their cross-state rival Georgia on the road. It's been a disapointing season for LSU. Forced to start a raw freshman QB, they've never hit their stride and have been embaressed a few times. They'll be back but this is not their year. Need further proof? LSU is 2-9 ATS this year, G Tech is 8-2. Oh yeah, and they're playing in Tech's hometown.

SUGAR - Jan 2, 7:00, New Orleans
Alabama -10.5 vs Utah
As I've said before, my money is on David to get a beat down from Goliath. I'm in love with the Crimson Tide's pro-style game plan. Alabama's offensive line will open up holes all day for their running game, which will allow for a few over the top strikes on play action. On the other side of the ball, Utah won't be able to generate much offense against the SEC's finest defense. Remember what happened to Hawaii last year in the Sugar Bowl? The trend continues and the mid-major team is put in its place.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP - Jan 8, 7:00, Miami
Florida -3 vs Oklahoma
I couldn't write this blog without a championship pick, which is painful because I feel like I've been asked to pick between my two sons. These teams have been my bread and butter this season..but if I have to pick, give me Tebow and the Gators. Both offenses are uber-talented and explosive, but the Gator's D packs a punch that Oklahoma's cannot match. Sam Bradford and the boys haven't seen a defense like this in the Big 12, and won't be able to put up 60 again. D'Marco Murray (Okahoma RB) has been ruled out of this game, which won't help matters for the Sooners. Sorry Sam, I love you, I really do - but Tim is my choice here.

UPSET SPECIAL

COTTON - Jan 2, 1:00, Dallas
Ole Miss +170 vs Texas Tech
Houston Nutt is a man to be feared. He's always been able to pull of upsets, and after his ouster at Arkansas, the man is coaching with a major chip on his shoulder. The players and fans at Ole Miss have been hungry all season and are turning up the heat at the right team, winning 5 in a row. Texas Tech is a very good team, but they peaked against Texas and had their bubble burst just a few weeks ago. They won't be as motivated as the Rebels, and with Ole Miss mixing in an unpredictable offense with an excellent defense, that will prove to be a problem. This reminds of Purdue vs Kansas State in 1998, after Michael Bishop's K-State had fallen from grace, and a hungry Drew Brees and Joe Tiller took the Alamo bowl...sad how far we have fallen.

OTHERS TO CONSIDER

USC -10 vs Penn St USC's defense will give Clark fits, RBs by commitee will wear down Nittany Lion's D

Wake -3 vs Navy Wake has already seen Navy's novel attack this year, Navy won't knock off Wake twice

Houston -2.5 vs Air Force Another rematch, but this one's in Houston's backyard sans Hurricane, Case Keenum is the next Kevin Kolb

Minnesota +10.5 vs Kansas Minnesota always plays randomly well when they're an underdog in this range (I've won twice with them like this), Kansas isn't that sweet

Notre Dame +1.5 vs Hawaii If Irish can't snap this bowl streak against far inferior talent-laden Warriors, Weis should be fired on the field after the game

Arizona vs BYU O62 Two very good offenses square off in what should be a shootout.

Tulsa +115 vs Ball State Both teams have had their moment in the sun and have fallen from Grace, Oklahoma's leftovers are better than Purdue's.

College Pick'Em Final

2008-12-12T16:46:00.005-06:00

PICK'em FINAL

Thanks for playing guys. Happy holidays and better luck next year
-2008 Champ

1st: Dave 4-6, 80-59 57.5%
2nd: Lee 8-2, 74-65 53.2%
3rd: Webmaster 7-3, 70-69 50.3%

Also-rans
Stasko 4-6, 62-68 47.7%
Freeman 3-7, 55-74 42.6%

Next week - Bowl Special

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 15

2008-12-05T14:51:00.006-06:00

Last week before bowl season. November was a headache, hopefully that -10 degree wind chill in Chicago doubles as a breath of fresh air.

PICKS
Ball State -15 vs Buffalo (Detroit, Friday) An indoor, turfed stadium should provide a nice launching pad for the Cardinal passing attack that appears to have a major advantage over Buffalo's suspect secondary. I could see the Bulls putting up points themselves, so you might want to hedge with the Over, which is currently around 62.

West Virginia -7.5 vs South Florida They're planning a white-out in Morgantown for Pat White's last game, so the crowd and the team should be pumped up. The Mountaineers are 6-2 in their last 8 games and headed in opposite direction of the Bulls who are 2-4 in their last 6. The weather is calling for sub 30 degree temperatures and snow, and I've got a feeling Grothe and the boys from Tampa won't take too kindly to it. I also had a chance to watch Jim Leavitt coach a few weeks ago, and came away understanding why this team is known to choke in the second half of seasons.

Troy -11 vs Arkansas State Troy has lost to LSU, Ohio State, Oklahoma State, and by 1 point on the road to Louisiana-Monroe; other than that they've been their competition soundly and are clearly the class of the Sun Belt. Expect more of the same this week at home against mediocre at best Arkansas State.

Florida -10 vs Alabama (Atlanta) In case you've been in a coma, Florida has been throttling everything in their site since they were upset by Mississippi in late September. This team is clicking on all cylinders and is downright scary. Alabama is a good team but has overachieved thus far, and is not in the Gator's class. I expect Bama to play tough but in the end the talent level of Tebow and Florida will be too much for the Tide to overcome.

PICK 'EM
I just need one to lock this thing up; The Webmaster has has an absurd November shooting for the silver
Dave 76-53 59%
Lee 66-63 51%
Ken 63-66 49%
Stasko 58-61 49%
Freeman 52-67 44%

Games this Week
BALL ST -14.5 vs BUFFALO
UCLA +30 vs USC
ARIZONA -10.5 vs ASU
HAWAII +7.5 vs Cincinnatti
TULSA -13.5 vs East Carolina
V TECH +1 vs Boston College
FLORIDA -9.5 vs Alabama
OKLAHOMA -17 vs Missouri
WEST VIRGINIA -7 vs S. Florida
ARMY +11 vs NAVY

Dave: Ball St, USC,ASU,Cincy,ECU,V Tech,Florida,Oklahoma,WVU,Army
Lee: Ball St, UCLA,ASU,Hawaii,ECU,V Tech,Florida,Oklahoma,SFU,Navy
Ken: Ball St, UCLA,AZ,Hawaii,Tulsa,BC,Florida,Oklahoma,S. Florida,Navy
Stasko: Ball St, UCLA,AZ,Cincy,Tulsa,BC,Bama,Oklahoma,WVU,Navy
Freeman: Ball St, USC,ASU,Hawaii,Tulsa,BC,Florida,Oklahoma,WVU,Army

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.14

2008-12-05T14:14:00.003-06:00

Quick Picks this week.

Tennessee -13.5 vs. Cleveland
New York Jets -3.5 @ San Francisco
New England -4.5 @ Seattle
Atlanta +3 @ New Orleans
Denver -9 vs. Kansas City

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 14

2008-11-26T17:57:00.020-06:00

Since there's no more Big 10 to get the job done, I'm only playing 4 games this week.

PICKS
Central Michigan -10 @ Eastern Michigan, Friday 11am CT
Take away Nate Davis and there's no finer QB in the MAC than Dan LeFevour. 15 TDs vs 4 INTs along with 500+ rushing yard are proof of that. He spearheads a Central team that has won 6 of 7 and shouldn't have much of a problem heading east and taking care of business. Eastern is 1-6 in the MAC, one of the worst teams in D-1A, and has little to play for. EMU will be fat and happy from Thursday and in no mood for an inevitable beating.
CMU 39, EMU 13

Tulsa -16 @ Marshall, Saturday 230pm CT
One of my regrets this season is not playing Todd Graham and Tulsa nearly enough. I was usually scared away by the 28 point + spreads...and then regretful when they blew them away. Their video game offense rolls up 584 points per game, and Marshall's weak defense won't have a prayer stopping it. Marshall has lost 6 of 7, and their one win was handed to them. Tulsa's QB even shares my name, which makes this one a slam dunk.
Tulsa 56, Marshall 21

Oregon State -3 vs Oregon, Saturday 6pm CT
With a trip to the Rose Bowl on the line and homefield to provide the extra juice, the Beavers will be prepared for the civil war. Mike Riley's teams always produce in the second half of the season, and this year has been no exception, going 8-1 in their last 9 games. Their exceptional balance will make it hard for the Duck's O, and force the Ducks D to bring their A agme. This one will be close, but at the end Beavers will get the job done in Corvailles.
Oregon State 27, Oregon 21

Oklahoma -7 @ Oklahoma St Saturday 7pm CT
Sam Bradford and Oklahoma's offense is unstoppable. putting up 52.6 points per game as well as going over 60 the last 3. They, along with Florida and USC, make up the 3 best teams in the country, and at this point in the season I suggest you bet the top dogs. OK State is a solid team that's had their moment in the sun, but they aren't in their rival's class. Their pass defense is their achilles heel and that will be a problem against the Sooners. The train keeps rolling.
Oklahoma 52, OK State 31

PICK 'EM
Easy Ken...Webmaster goes 10-0 for the first perfect week in pick'em history! Hope you parlayed it.
Dave 4-6; 76-53 59%
Lee 3-7;66-63 51%
Ken 10-0; 63-66 49%
Stasko 6-4; 58-61 49%
Freeman 5-5; 52-67 44%

No games this week, researching college hoops....

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.13 - Thanksgiving Edition

2008-11-26T12:28:00.004-06:00

Not a bad week last week, going 3-1-1 and the rumor is the Webmaster also hit 10-0 on his College Football Pick'em.

Thanksgiving Edition:

Tennessee -11 @ Detroit
Yeah Detroit usually plays well on Thanksgiving, but I can see Kerry Collins drunk last Sunday night yelling at his team that we will be eating Lions for Thanksgiving dinner.

Dallas -13 vs. Seattle
Looks like Romo and Co are back and in business after the ass kicking given to the 49ers. Look for the same to be given to Seattle.

Arizona +3 @ Philadelphia
When McNabb gets benched again at half time the Cardinals will roll.

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.12

2008-11-21T12:57:00.003-06:00

Well last week was ok, going 3-2. Should have been 4-1 except referee Bob Green forgot his rule book and reversed a call on a touchdown. Asshole.

Baltimore -1 vs. Philadelphia
After the bashing the Ravens defense took last week, look for Ray Lewis and co to be geared and ready to go in this battle in Baltimore.

Jacksonville -2 vs. Minnesota
I like the Jags at home in the game against AD and Ferotte.

Giants -3.5 @ Arizona
With cement legs Kurt Warner under center for the Cards look Justin Tuck and Mathias Kiwanuka to tee off on Warner this weekend.

Dallas -10 vs. San Fransisco
With the return of Tony Romo the Cowpokes are back to their old ways again. Look for the offense to roll easily through 49ers defense.

Indianapolis -3 @ San Diego
Philip Rivers is not a great quarterback and won't get it done against the Colts on Sunday night TV.

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 13

2008-11-21T12:21:00.012-06:00

This is the last week with a full slate of games. I'm going to miss betting the Big 10, as my home territory has netted a 15-4 record for me since week 1. Note to Chase Clement and Ty Willingham...if you cover this week, expect an invitation to my wedding. Mark D'Antonio has already made the guest list and will be sitting at the head table.

PICKS
Rice -9.5 vs Marshall
Chase Clement is having an incredible season (32 TDs, 6 INTs) and his owls are unbeaten at home. Conversely, Marshall is mediocre at best and has gone 1-4 on the road. With Conference USA on the line, the Owls will come to play. A favorable spread makes this one attractive too.

Troy -10 vs UL-Lafayette
The men of Troy are the marquee program of the Sun Belt, and can play with the big boys (as going toe to toe at LSU last week proved). This a balanced team that gains 100 more yards per game than it gives up. With a bowl game on the line and a home crowd, motivation won't be an issue. Only once a year do I provide a Sun Belt pick, you can't go wrong!

Michigan St +15.5 @ Penn St
For those that have read this blog over the last two years, you know my feelings on the Spartans. They have played toe to toe with almost everyone the last two years aside from Ohio State this year, and why they are given this many points is beyond me. Penn State has had a fabulous year, but they peaked awhile back and aren't the juggernaut they looked like in September. This is the game of the year in the Big 10, and it will be close.

Washingon -7 vs Washington St
In this pathetically historic matchup, it comes down to talent. While neither side boasts much, Washington State is on their 4th string QB and is filled with walk-ons. They might be the worst BCS conference team in the BCS era (the last 12 years or so). At least UW gave BYU a game, plus these guys will play their hearts out to get Willingham a victory on the way out.

South Florida -3 vs Connecticut
The Big East is hardly my forte, but I think this is a good matchup for the Bulls. Primarily, they're playing at home, at night, where they've historically been very solid. Additionally, their strength is shutting down the run, which makes it tough for Connecticut because running the ball is what they do best. The Bulls have lost 3 in a row, and to me that means they're due. 3 points is a safe number to lay here.

Purdue -10.5 vs Indiana
It's been a dreadful year for my Boilers, but they still have the talent to lay the wood against Indiana. Curtis Painter will go down as one of my least favorite athletes of all time...but he finally seems to have his head on straight, based on his performance against Iowa, and the guy has always played like Elway against crappy teams. I can see him throwing for 300 yards, 4 TDs, and Sheets running for a buck-fifty. Tiller gets a solid (I guess) win on the way out and the Boilers roll.

PICK 'EM
We had a push last week (OSU) so throwing that one out. Everyone is a winner this week, first time this year!
Dave 7-2; 72-47 60%
Lee 5-4;63-56 53%
Stasko 6-3; 52-57 48%
Ken 8-1; 53-66 45%
Freeman 5-4; 47-62 44%

GAMES THIS WEEK
NORTHWESTERN +3 vs Illinois
CINCINNATTI +5 vs Pitt
PURDUE -12 vs Indiana
OHIO ST -21 vs Michigan
VIRGINIA TECH -17 vs Duke
LSU -3.5 vs Mississippi
WASHINGTON ST +7 vs Washington
OKLAHOMA-7 vs Texas Tech
MINNESOTA +6 vs Iowa
PENN ST -14.5 vs Michigan St

Dave:Ill,Pitt,Purdue,OSU,Duke,LSU,Wash,Texas Tech, Iowa, MSU
Lee: Ill,Pitt,Purdue,Mich,Duke,LSU,Wash,OK,Minn, MSU
Stasko: Ill,Cincy,Purdue,OSU,V Tech,Miss,Wash St,Texas Tech, Minn, PSU
Freeman:Ill,Pitt,Purdue,OSU,Duke,LSU,Wash St,OK, Minn, MSU
Ken: NW,Cincy,Purdue,OSU,Duke,Miss,Wash St,OK, Iowa, PSU

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.11

2008-11-14T12:08:00.003-06:00

Another loser week, let's see if we can't turn that around this weekend. I'm still not sure how the Cardinals only beat the crappy 49ers by only 5 at home on MNF.

Tennessee -3 @ Jacksonville
Look for Kerry Collins and the Titans to roll through an under performing Jags squad this week.

Tampa Bay -3.5 vs. Minnesota
The Bucs at home against a Minnesota team that's trying to hang tough in the NFC North. This could be a battle of defenses since both QBs aren't the greatest around. I like the Bucs at home.

Washington +1.5 vs. Dallas
Romo is probably going to be a little rusty tonight like Joe Kane coming back from his rehab stint. Hopefully a few more Redskins show up this week not like against the Steelers whose fans over ran RFK.

Pittsburgh -5 vs. San Diego
Look for a rebound from the disappointing loss last week against Indy, and when the Steelers shut down LT the Bolts have no other offense.

Arizona -3 @ Seattle
Seattle is not performing well this year and with the reemergence of Kurt Warner the Cards should easily roll through Seattle

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 12

2008-11-11T21:49:00.049-06:00

Thursday Night Special (7:00)
MIAMI FL - 4 vs Virginia Tech

I've been waiting to say this all year...play the U.

MIDSEASON AWARDS
Stand up and take a bow, fellas. You've done good work for the house thus far.

MICHIGAN ST 4-1
OKLAHOMA 3-1
FLORIDA 3-1
ARIZONA 3-1
RICE 3-1
TEXAS 3-1

...and further proof to never trust a man with a mustache.

OREGON 0-2
CLEMSON 0-2
MICHIGAN 0-2

PICKS

Oregon St -3.5 vs Cal Beavers always good second half of season, Corvailes home field underrated
Florida St -6.5 vs Boston College Best 'Noles team in years, blackout in Tallahesee hard to overcome
USC -24 @ Stanford Talent level isn't even close
Purdue +18 @ Iowa Hawks aren't built to roll teams, in Siller we trust!
Minnesota +13.5 @ Wisconsin Gophers worst is behind them, too many points for mediocre Badgers
UCLA -7 @ Washington Neiuheisel knows how to win in Seattle, UW sucks
Notre Dame -4 vs Navy (Baltimore) More talent, east coast catholics show up in B-More
Ohio St -9.5 @ Illinois Zook back to being Zook, Ohio State on a mission to take Big 10.

PICK 'EM
Lee's putting together a late season push; Webmaster's back on the smack
Dave 5-5; 65-45 59%
Lee 8-2;58-52 53%
Stasko 4-6; 46-54 46%
Freeman 0-0; 42-58 42%
Ken 2-8; 45-65 41%

GAMES THIS WEEK
PENN ST -34.5 vs Indiana
IOWA -15 vs Purdue
MICHIGAN -3.5 vs Northwestern
WISCONSIN -13 vs Minnesota
ILLINOIS +10 vs Ohio St
AUBURN +8 vs Georgia
KANSAS +13.5 vs Texas
WASHINGTON +7.5 vs UCLA
AIR FORCE +4 vs Byu
HOUSTON +5.5 vs Tulsa

Dave:IU,Purdue,NW,Minn,OSU,Georgia,Kansas,UCLA,BYU,Houston
Lee: Penn St,Purdue,NW,Minn,OSU,Georgia,Texas,UCLA,Air Force,Tulsa
Stasko: IU,Iowa,Michigan,Minn,OSU,Auburn,Texas,UCLA,BYU,Tulsa
Freeman: Penn St,Purdue,NW,Minn,OSU,Georgia,Texas,UCLA,Air Force,Tulsa
Ken: Penn St,Purdue,NW,Minn,Illinois,Auburn,Texas,UCLA,BYU,Houston

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.10

2008-11-07T14:31:00.002-06:00

Well the picks last week were pretty flat only going 2-3. Hopefully you loaded up on the Giants dismantling of the Cowpokes.

Giants +3 @ Philadelphia
I like the Gmen in this match up, they haven't played as great on the road this year (browns game) but have still been dominant on the road. This is their first NFC Beast match up away from the Meadowlands. I like the Giants to continue their dominance of 2008.

Tennessee -3 @ Bears
Starting quarterback Rex Grossman. Enough said.

Arizona -9.5 vs. San Fransisco
The only way San Fransisco keeps this game close is if Mike Singletary pulls his pants down and distracts the entire Cardinals offense.

Pittsburgh -3 vs. Indianapolis
Whether its Big Ben or Leftwhich its still going to be tough for the Colts to beat the Steelers at home.

Minnesota -2 vs. Green Bay
The battle for the NFC North has an important game this week with the Vikings and Packers facing off. This could be a tough one for Green Bay to win.

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 11

2008-11-07T11:08:00.018-06:00

After a rough go last week, I'm spreading myself thin. Just the picks:

Rutgers -14 @ Syracuse
Wisconsin -9.5 @ Indiana
Duke -3.5 vs NC State
Arkansas +13 @ South Carolina
Florida - 24 @ Vanderbilt
Baylor +27.5 @ Texas
Rice -9.5 vs Army
Arizona -41 @ Washington St
Oklahoma -27.5 @ Texas A&M
Illinois -7.5 @ Western Michigan (DETROIT)
Iowa +7.5 vs Penn St
Missouri -27 vs. Kansas St

Weekly Pick Em Results
Dave 5-5; 60-40 60%
Lee 7-3;-50-50 50%
Stasko 5-5; 42-48 47%
Ken 6-4; 43-57 43%
Freeman 3-7; 42-58 42%

GAMES THIS WEEK
ILLINOIS -7.5 vs Western Michigan (Detroit)
INDIANA +9.5 vs Wisconsin
NORTHWESTERN +11 vs Ohio St
MICHIGAN ST -9 vs Purdue
TEXAS TECH -3 vs Oklahoma St
FLORIDA ST -5.5 vs Clemson
IOWA +7.5 vs Penn St
TEXAS -27.5 vs. Baylor
MINNESOTA -7.5 vs Michigan
USC -20.5 vs. Cal

Dave: Illinois,Wisconsin,Ohio St,Purdue,OK St,FSU,Iowa,Baylor,Minnesota,USC
Lee:Illinois,Wisconsin,Ohio St,MSU,Texas Tech,FSU,Iowa,Baylor,Michigan,USC
Webman:Illinois,Indiana,Northwestern,MSU,OK St,FSU,Penn St,Texas,Minnesota,USC
Stasko:Illinois,Indiana,Northwestern,MSU,OK St,FSU,Iowa,Texas,Minnesota,Cal

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.09

2008-10-31T18:27:00.003-05:00

The picks for this week...

Cleveland -1.5 vs. Baltimore (can't believe I'm writing that)
Tennessee -4.5 vs. Green Bay
Philadelphia -7 vs. Seattle
Washington -2 vs. Pittsburgh
Dallas +9 @ New York Giants

Good luck!

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 10

2008-10-31T10:09:00.017-05:00

Texas -4 @ Texas Tech
When a team is playing at the level of the Longhorns, my advice is to stop asking questions and jump on board. They are the number 1 team in the country and carry the mojo to back it up. Texas Tech is a nice team, but they don't have the steer on their helmet, and they've gone 1-7 against the Horns the last 8 years. Tech will provide a challenge but there's no way Colt McCoy takes his foot off the accelerator for this one. The only question is, how much would you pay to be in his shoes for the next 2 years?
Texas 47, Texas Tech 34

South Carolina -5.5 vs. Tennessee
It starts with South Carolina's defense, ranked 8th in the country in total yards, which the Vols won't be able to penetrate at all. It goes to the Gamecocks at home for a primetime night game which the fans are sure to be all-out for. Next, this is the worst Vols teams in years, led by an atrocious offense. It ends with Stephan Garcia, South Carolina's redshirt freshman QB that made a very impressive and gutsy debut against LSU. The end result is the ole ball coach notching his first victory ever on the blog.
South Carolina 24, Tennessee 13

LSU -25.5 vs. Tulane
For many of us this is an unexpected pleasant surprise. While this game should be being played on September 13th, I'll take advantage and lay the points with the Tigers. All I can say is the talent level isn't even close and they're playing at LSU. The only question is, how many points? Historically, the big favorite covers. Play the odds and lay money on the Tigers.
LSU 52, Tulane 14

East Carolina -3 @ Central Florida
East Carolina has followed an interesting trajectory this season. They started out under the radar, beat two ranked teams, and were thrust into the spotlight. They hit a snag, lost three in a row, and headed below the radar. After a 30-10 victory over Memphis and a bye week, the Pirates are due to be back on the upswing, and I suggest you ride the wave. George O'Leary and Central Florida just don't have it this year, as their 2-5 record would suggest. Skip Holtz just sent me a text promising a cheap field goal to cover 3 if necesarry, and thats one man I trust my money with.
East Carolina 31, Central Florida 21

Weekly Pick Em Results
Dave 6-4; 55-35 61%
Lee 3-7; 43-47 47%
Stasko 5-5; 37-43 46%
Freeman 4-6; 39-51 43%
Ken 6-4; 37-53 41%

GAMES THIS WEEK
ILLINOIS -1.5 vs. Iowa
MINNESOTA -6.5 vs Northwestern
CAL -3 vs Oregon
TEXAS TECH +6 vs Texas
PURDUE +1.5 vs. Michigan
MICHIGAN ST -4.5 vs Wisconsin
SOUTH CAROLINA -6 vs Tennessee
USC -43 vs Washington
GEORGIA TECH -1.5 vs Florida St
ARKANSAS +7 vs Tulsa

Dave: Illinois, Northwestern, Oregon, Texas, Michigan, Wisconsin, South Carolina, USC, FSU, Tulsa
Lee:Illinois, Northwestern, Cal, Texas, Michigan, MSU, South Carolina, USC, Georgia Tech, Arkansas
Webmaster:Illinois, Northwestern, Cal, Texas, Purdue, MSU, Tennessee, USC, FSU, Arkansas
Freeman:Iowa, Minnesota, Cal, Texas, Michigan, MSU, South Carolina, USC, FSU, Tulsa
Stasko:Illinois,Minnesota,Oregon,Texas Tech,Michigan,MSU,South Carolina,USC,FSU,Arkansas

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.08

2008-10-24T16:55:00.002-05:00

2-2 last week wasn't what I was looking for, but I did enjoy the ass raping the Cowgirls took in St. Louis, while that probably won't happen again for a long time. I think the Cowgirls could be in trouble this week against the Bucs as well.

Big Showdown on Sunday in Pittsburgh between the Giants and the Steelers, the games going to be a bloodbath. At this point I haven't heard of any bounties being put on Steelers players this week. Its too bad.

Picks:
Tennessee -4 vs Indy
Tampa Bay +2.5 @ Dallas
Giants +3 @ Pittsburgh
New Orleans +3 vs. San Diego (in London)
Buffalo -2.5 @ Miami

Good Luck!

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 9

2008-10-23T09:13:00.013-05:00

Notre Dame -10 @ Washington
I was hoping the calendar year would be 2010 before I started laying points with the Irish, but they've improved a bit since last year and the start of this one. Despite his poor taste in press conferences and haircuts, Jimmy Clausen is talented and playing well, as his 8 TDs:2 INTS the last 3 games would indicate. Put simply, Washington sans Jake Locker is atrocious. The winless Huskies have lost by 3 or more TDs 4 times already, and that trend will continue. Depression in Seattle reaches an alltime high, Huskies fall to 0-7.
Notre Dame 38, Washington 13

Arizona + 15 vs USC
Betting against USC is inherently playing with fire. But I like the spot for the Wildcats to give them a game. They're tied atop the Pac-10 and playing at home under the lights, so motivation won't be an issue. QB Willie Tuitama has been at it for awhile, directing an offense that averages 411.9 yards per game. The defense is an underrated one - 27th in total yards and 18th in passing yards. The last few years, USC seems to either show in a big way, or drop the ball. Arizona has been kind to me this year; they've got my vote for the upset.
Arizona 30, USC 27

Michigan St -4 vs. Michigan
The actual value difference between these two teams is much greater than 4 points. It's true that Michigan has talent, they play in a a huge stadium, and they are after all, Michigan. Aside from Purdue and Indiana, they're also the worst team in the Big 10. Michigan State always has a chip on its shoulder when they play these guys, and is sure to bring it's A game. After a lesson in reality from Ohio State, D'Antonio will have the slate wiped clean and a focus on the task at hand. Spartans do what they do, which is prove me right on this blog.
Michigan State 27, Michigan 17

New Mexico St -13 @ Idaho
Whenever I have a stressful day at work, or things just aren't going my way, it's calming to know I can take out my frustrations on Idaho. Currently battling North Texas for worst team in D-IA,this team hasn't loss by less than 13 in 7 tries this season. Their defense is woeful, giving up 502 yard/game. That spells trouble against the Aggies, who have the 12th rated passing offense in college football. QB Chase Holbrook, yet another former Texas high school QB making waves, should have a field day against the Vandals. Home game or not, Idaho sucks, and I suggest you take advantage of that
New Mexico St 45, Idaho 21

Weekly Pick Em Results
For the sake of you all - I hope one of these weeks you'll stop picking Wisconsin.

Dave 7-3; 49-31 61%
Lee 7-3; 40-40 50%
Stasko 4-6; 32-38 46%
Freeman 4-6; 35-45 44%
Ken 5-5; 31-49 39%

GAMES THIS WEEK
INDIANA +8 vs Northwestern
PURDUE -1 vs Minnesota
WISCONSIN +2.5 vs Illinois
ARIZONA ST +4.5 vs Oregon
LSU -2 vs Georgia
MICHIGAN +4 vs Michigan St.
FLORIDA ST -5 vs Virginia Tech
KANSAS -1.5 vs Texas Tech
OHIO ST +2.5 vs Penn St
TEXAS -14 vs Oklahoma St

Dave: NW, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona St, LSU, Michigan St, Florida St, Kansas, Penn St, OK St
Lee: NW, Minnesota, Illinois, Arizona St, LSU, Michigan St, Virginia Tech, Kansas, Ohio St, OK St
Webmaster: NW, Purdue, Wisconsin, Arizona St, LSU, Michigan St, Florida St, Texas Tech, Penn St, OK St
Freeman: NW, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona St, LSU, Michigan St, Virginia Tech, Texas Tech, Ohio St, Texas
Stasko: NW, Minnesota, Illinois, Oregon, LSU, Michigan, Florida St, Texas Tech, Ohio St, OK St

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.07

2008-10-18T11:48:00.002-05:00

Frankie's being lazy this week and is just giving you the picks.

San Diego Pk @ Buffalo
Broncos +3 @ New England
Tennessee -9 @ Kansas City
Chicago -3 vs Minnesota

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 8

2008-10-16T16:37:00.021-05:00

Texas -4 vs Missouri
If you haven't already, it's time to start riding the Longhorn's hot hand. Colt McCoy has been magnificent in leading a balanced attack that ranks 13th in the country in total yards, while the defense has been going beyond just pulling weight. Despite the loss last week, Missouri is still a solid squad and will show up focused for this one. The Tigers quick strikes will keep them in the game but Austin at night will be too much to overcome. Longhorns ride the momentum in a shootout.
Texas 42, Missouri 31

Nevada -22 vs. Utah State
After a shootout loss to New Mexico State last week, the Wolfpack get perfect prescription in the form of a visit from Utah State. The Aggies 95th rated rushing defense can't contain QB Colin Kaepernick and Nevada's 3rd rated rushing game. While Nevada's secondary leaves a lot to be desired, they'll get a week off against this offense. Look, if you remove Idaho and North Texas from the equation, Utah State is the worst team in D 1-A. Don't be afraid to give the points.
Nevada 49, Utah State 20

Rice -2 vs. Southern Miss
One of the themes of the season is the plethora of former Texas high school QBs tearing it up at the college level. Not the be overlooked is 4 year starter Chase Clement of Rice. His 16:4 TD/INT ratio prove his decision making is on point in leading the Owls to the 16th rated passing attack in the country. Southern Miss is comparable, but their QB, Austin Davis, is just a freshman. This discrepency, plus the home field, leads Rice to victory.
Rice 38, Southern Miss 31

Wake Forest -2.5 @ Maryland
It seems Wake is right back where they were two years ago - getting favorable spreads, and covering them in a very ugly way. The Deacons just win - not flashy, but these guys get the job done, week in and week out. For the past two seasons, the Terps have been more eratic that Ralph Friedgan's blood sugar. They may have taken out Cal and Clemson, but lets not forget it was a cross-country trap game for Cal, and Clemson is in a tailspin. My money is on Maryland's load being blown for 2008. Deacons just do what they do, and take care of business.
Wake Forest 19, Maryland 9

Baylor +17 @ Oklahoma St
The Bears and Cowboys have both won for me this year, and I certainly can't play favorites between the two. But after last week's thrilling upset, OK St. is due for a mild letdown. Speaking of Texas high school studs, Robert Griffin doesn't need you to let your guard down to get you. The freshman phenom has thrown 9 TDs to 0 picks, while running for 8 TDs. Throw in some mystique (he was born in Japan) and your money is in good hands with this guy. I think the Cowboys will be too focused on the prize to be upset, but Baylor will give them a run for their money. Baylor has a chance to be the first 3-time winner on the 2008 blog. That in itself is motivation.
Oklahoma State 35, Baylor 27

Weekly Pick Em Results
Gotta pat myself on the back this week, 60% is the magic number. Leave it to the Irish to play the spoiled apple.

Dave 9-1; 42-28 60%
Lee 3-7; 33-37 47%
Stasko 4-6; 28-32 46%
Freeman 4-6; 32-38 45%
Ken 5-5; 26-44 37%

GAMES THIS WEEK
IOWA -3.5 vs. Wisconson
NORTHWESTERN -4 vs. Purdue
MICHIGAN ST +3.5 vs. Ohio State
TEXAS -5.5 vs. Missouri
PENN ST -23 vs. Michigan
ARIZONA +2.5 vs Cal
ILLINOIS -15 vs. Indiana
OKLAHOMA -20 vs. Kansas
GEORGIA -15 vs. Vanderbilt
WASHINGTON ST +42.5 vs. USC

Dave:Iowa,Purdue,Michigan St,Texas,Penn St,Arizona,Illinois,Kansas,Georgia,USC
Lee:Wisconsin,Northwestern,Michigan St,Texas,Penn St,Cal,Illinois,Kansas,Vanderbilt,USC
Freeman:Wisconsin,Purdue,Michigan St,Texas,Michigan,Cal,Illinois,Oklahoma,Georgia,USC
Ken:Wisconsin,Northwestern,Michigan St,Texas,Penn St,Cal,Illinois,Kansas,Georgia,Wash St
Stasko:Wisconsin,Northwestern,Ohio St,Missouri,Michigan,Cal,Illinois,Oklahoma,Vanderbilt,Wash St

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 7

2008-10-10T11:50:00.015-05:00

Dave Revsine has been asking me about this for weeks. It's the annual All-Big 10 Special! I'm working with Howard Griffith's bankroll this week so the pressure is on.

Iowa -5 @ Indiana
Iowa is 9 points away from being 6-0 and in the top 10. Are they better than their record indicates, or are they failures when it comes to closing? I imagine it's a combination of the two, but they're good enough to lay 5 against the Dwellers of The Rock. The D is stifling, allowing 282 yard/game and only 11.2 points. The running game is vintage Big 10. Shonn Greene is yet to be held to less than 100 yard rushing in a game, and IU will have a hard time stopping that streak. I expect Kellen Lewis to give the Hawkeyes a few problems, but a key turnover and red-zone stops will ensure victory for Iowa. This one will be sloppy and physical, but Iowa comes out on top.
Iowa 20, Indiana 10

Minnesota +11.5 @ Illinois
Illinois is a program on solid ground right now, and is firmly entrenched in the top half of the Big 10, while Tim Brewster's Gophers are trying to make a name for themselves. While it's always dicey to take a dog on the road, Minnesota has quietly been playing well and I expect them to give Illinois a game. Adam Weber has matured in his second year under center, throwing only 2 picks to 8 TDs thus far. The real story, however is the defense. The much maligned unit a year ago is now only giving up 18.5 points per game. While they're not world beaters, they're good enough to keep the team in the game. Being on the cusp on the upper half of the Big 10, I'm guessing they'll be plenty motivated for this one. I don't think they'll have the horses to pull the upset, but they've got enought to cover. As far as intangbles go, Illinois is coming off a hige victory on the road and it's an early start. Thus, the first half could be a flop for them (see UL-Monroe).
Illinois 30, Minnesota 21

Michigan State -3 @ Northwestern
D'Antonio is the anti-Tiller. Not in any way flashy, stats are not mind-boggling - but his teams don't make mistakes and always seem to pull out the close ones. The defense goes with a bend-don't break approach. Northwestern will be able to dink, dunk, and settle for field goals all day long. As for the offense, all I have to say is Javon Ringer. The Wildcats are a good story thus far, and I'd be happy with Pat Fitzgerald as my coach. The defense has played at a level no one expected; however, they haven't played many tough games either. Duke and Iowa both gave game to them by making mistakes, which obviously won't happen here. This will be a good game, but Ringer gets lose for a score or two and that's all they need. My stock in the Spartans rises to an all-time high.
Michigan State 23, Northwestern 16

Penn State - 5 @ Wisconsin
As a member of the media, I'm very desirous that a black quarterback do well. So it goes without saying that I like Penn State here. Up to this point, they look like the class of the Big 10. Punishing defense is their rock; Daryll Clark, Evan Royster, and a dynamic offense give this team a special look. Don't get me wrong; they'll have a test at Camp-Randall, under the lights. But the Badgers are too one dimensional, and don't match up well with a team that will shut down PJ Hill. Last year the Nittany Lions won 38-7. It'll be closer this year, and a late score will be necesarry to secure the spread. Penn State continues to wear the crown.
Penn State 27, Wisonsin 17

Purdue +19 @ Ohio State
Simply put, this is a sympathy cover by Jim Tressel. He respects Joe Tiller and doesn't want to embaress the man on the way out. If the lead gets too big, he'll probably put in the third string. On the flip side, Curtis Painter is awful and will probably single-handedly find a way to lose by 19. So, your guess is as good as mine. I'll say Purdue covers by the skin of its teeth, thanks to some garbage time points once Joey Elliot gets inserted.
Ohio State 38, Purdue 20

Weekly Pick'Em Results
Freeman continues his hot streak and his quest to break even; the Webmaster's knees are mysteriously chopped in Aruba

Dave 5-5; 33-27, 55%
Lee 4-6; 30-30, 50%
Stasko 5-5; 24-26, 48%
Freeman 7-3; 28-32, 47%
Webmaster 3-7; 21-39; 35%

This Weeks Games
INDIANA +5 vs. Iowa
ILLINOIS -11.5 vs. Minnesota
NORTHWESTERN +3 vs. Michigan State
OKLAHOMA -7 vs. TEXAS (N)
OHIO ST -19 vs. Purdue
MISSOURI -13.5 vs. Oklahoma State
GEORGIA -12.5 vs. Tennessee
WISCONSIN +5 vs. Penn St
FLORIDA -6 vs. LSU
NORTH CAROLINA -7.5 vs. Notre Dame

Dave: Iowa,Minnesota,MSU,Texas,Purdue,OK State,Tennessee,Penn St,Florida,UNC
Lee: Iowa,Illinois,MSU,Oklahoma,Purdue,Missouri,Georgia,Wisconsin,LSU,UNC
Freeman:Iowa,Illinois,MSU,Oklahoma,Ohio St,Missouri,Georgia,Penn St,Florida,UNC
Webmaster: Iowa,Illinois,Northwestern,Texas,Purdue,Missouri,Tennessee,Penn St,LSU,UNC
Stasko: Iowa,Illinois,MSU,Oklahoma,Ohio St,Missouri,Georgia,Penn St,Florida,UNC

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 6

2008-09-28T10:02:00.056-05:00

This week we're slashing overhead and combining NFL and College picks into one column. This is in dedication to Ken, Janine, and Tom Cable. Cable recently joined the exclusive NFL head coaching ranks. Apparently his 11-35 career record at Idaho was enough for Al Davis to sign him on the spot. Tom, I'd like to personally thank you for planting the seeds 6 years ago for my first pick this weekend:

SATURDAY
Nevada - 24 @ Idaho
The previously lauded Vandals may be the worst team in all of D1-A. Their 4 losses are by 28,25,23,and 70 points, and only one of those teams (Arizona) is in a BCS conference. They were even blown out by Utah State, who is currently ranked 115 out of 119 teams by College Football News. Nevada comes into this one battle tested. They've already played two Top 10 teams in Missouri and Texas Tech, so Idaho should feel like a high school team. They have a QB that rushed for 240 yards last week and completed 68% of his passes. They also took care of a solid UNLV team by 3 touchdowns last week. The choice is yours: Gambling and hookers, or potatoes?
Nevada 52, Idaho 21

Florida - 25 @ Arkansas
Karma has officially caught up to Bobby Petrino. Papa John's first born has been smacked around since he graduated to the real world. His shady departure from the Falcons and subsequent football factory hiring has the football gods raining down on him. The Razorbacks are bad, sqeaking out wins against D1-AA schools and getting hammered by the big boys. It doesn't help that they're facing an angry Gators squad at the wrong time. After falling to Ole Miss last week, expect the Gators to be focused and efficient. Gator's strike quick and never look back; the points you laid will be recouped by the end of the first quarter.
Florida 55, Arkansas 3

Arizona -20 vs. Washington
Jake Locker is gone for awhile, and so are the Huskie's chances of keeping many games close. The rest of the O is devoid of playmakers, and with a defense that gives up 507 yards per game, this one could get ugly. Aside from a trap-game loss at New Mexio, the offensive minded Wildcats been torching everyone in their path. Arizona still has their sights set on being second fiddle in the Pac 10 and with this one being at home, there's little risk for a letdown. It's also the start of mid-season, when Willingham starts to do what he does best...lose games.
Arizona 49, Washington 14

Virginia Tech - 28 vs. Western Kentucky
Look it up: the Hokies routinely roll teams like this in Blacksburg. Western Kentucky is one year removed from D-1AA and won't be able to do squat vs. Beamerball. Hokies in a romp
Virginia Tech 45, Western Kentucky 0

SUNDAY

Tennessee PK @ Baltimore

Washington +6 @ Philadelphia

Seattle +9 @ NY Giants

Arizona -1.5 vs. Buffalo

Weekly Pick'Em Results
After a week off, Stasko comes back with a clear head and sights set on joining the top half. The Webmaster's descent has his client base calling for his head on a stick.

Dave 6-4; 28-22, 56%
Lee 5-5; 26-24, 52%
Stasko 6-4; 19-21, 47.5%
Freeman 5-5; 21-29, 42%
Webmaster 3-7; 18-32; 36%

This week's games:
PURDUE + 12.5 vs. Penn St.
MICHIGAN ST -9.5 vs. Iowa
MINNESOTA -7.5 vs. Indiana
MICHIGAN -2.5 vs. Illinois
WISCONSIN +2.5 vs. Ohio St
UTAH -12 vs. Oregon St.
CAL -9 vs. Arizona St.
MIAMI -2.5 vs. Florida State
KANSAS STATE+7.5 vs Texas Tech
VANDERBILT +4.5 vs. Auburn

Dave: Penn St.,Iowa,Minnesota,Michigan,Ohio St,Utah,Arizona St.,Miami,Texas Tech,Auburn
Lee: Penn St,Iowa,Indiana,Illinois,Wisconsin,Utah,Arizona St,Miami,Texas Tech,Auburn
Freeman: Penn St,Michigan St,Minnesota,Michigan,Ohio St,Oregon St,Cal,Florida St,Texas Tech,Auburn
Ken: Purdue,Michigan St,Minnesota,Michigan,Wisconsin,Utah,Cal,Miami,Kansas St,Vanderbilt
Stasko:Penn St.,Michigan St,Minnesota,Illinois,Ohio St,Utah,Arizona St,Miami,Texas Tech,Auburn

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 5

2008-09-27T10:12:00.009-05:00

My recommendation this week is to play all of the big spread home favorites....and the Spartans, of course.

Florida -22.5 vs. Mississippi
Oklahoma -18.5 vs. TCU
Rice - 17 vs. North Texas
Texas -27 vs. Arkansas
Clemson -11 vs. Maryland
Oklahoma State -17 vs. Troy
Kansas State -20.5 vs. UL-Lafayette
Michigan State -8.5 @ Indiana

Weekly Pick'Em Results - Freeman is out of the cellar!
Dave 4-6; 22-18
Lee 6-4; 21-19
Stasko 0-0; 13-17
Freeman 6-4; 16-24
Webmaster 4-6; 15-25

Games this Week
INDIANA +8 vs. Michigan State
NOTRE DAME -1 vs. Purdue
IOWA -8 vs. Northwestern
OHIO ST. -18 vs. Minnesota
MICHIGAN +6.5 vs. Wisconsin
PENN ST. -15 vs. Illinois
NEBRASKA -7 vs. Virginia Tech
TEXAS -27.5 vs. Arkansas
GEORGIA -6.5 vs. Alabama
AUBURN -6.5 vs. Tennesee

Dave: MSU,Purdue,Iowa,Minnesota,Wisconsin,Penn St.,V. Tech,Texas,Alabama,Tennesee
Webmaster IU,Purdue,Northwestern,Minnesota,Wisconsin,Penn St.,Nebraska, Texas, Georgia,Auburn
Freeman: MSU,Purdue,Iowa,Ohio St.,Michigan,Illinois.,V. Tech,Arkansas,Alabama,Auburn
Lee: MSU,Purdue,Northwestern,Minnesota,Wisconsin,Illinois.,V. Tech, Arkansas, Georgia ,Auburn
Stasko: MSU,Purdue,Iowa,Minnesota,Wisconsin,Illinois.,V. Tech, Arkansas, Alabama,Tennessee

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.03

2008-09-19T11:49:00.002-05:00

Well we're back at you this week with some exciting games that will be taking place. It's the week of the home favorite (except the Packers who are +3 against Dallas), all home teams are favorites to win this week. Not sure what that tells us except that there should be a lot of covers as most teams play better at home.

Last week went 1-3 on my published picks but threw in a late bet on the Packers -3.5 vs. the Lions, since I got a text message from Tom Sunset guaranteeing the cover for the Packers.

Game 1: Philadelphia -3 vs. Pittsburgh
The Battle of the Keystone State is going to come down to the QB's, is Big Ben's shoulder really hurt and can they play better than they did last week against the Browns? Or did McNabb and Co. get a big boost of confidence going wire to wire with the Cowboys on Monday Night Football?

Game 2: Arizona +3 at Washington
Kurt Warner looks like the Kurt Warner of old, slinging the ball all over the field to two of the top receivers in the league. I'm still not convinced that the Zorn led Skins are any good, and unless Chris Cooley exposes himself before the game on his blog, than the Cards will win.

Game 3: San Diego -8.5 vs. Jersey/B
San Diego has been one blown call and a last second play from being 2-0, look for them to get back on track this week against Jersey/B and make this a boring Monday Night Football game.

Game 4: Carolina +3 at Minnesota
All I need to say is Minnesota starting QB Gus Frerotte.

The Ed Hochuli Tight Shirt Suicide Pool Picks
1. Buffalo Bills
2. New York Giants

You might wonder why I picked the Giants twice in a row? Two different sets of picks.

-Frankie

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl, Vol 2 Number 4

2008-09-17T18:56:00.018-05:00

Oregon -10.5 vs. Boise State
The Ducks - at Autzen - laying less than 2 TDs against a mid-major? You serious, Vegas? Listen, I understand the Roper is out, which may be why this spread seems low. But watching the Ducks last week, it was clear that A) he wasn't very good to begin with and B) their running game and defense are top of the line. Those elements will be enough to stop a Boise State team far removed from their Fiesta Bowl magic. The offense isn't what it used to be. Last week they were shutout in the second half at home for the first time in 19 years. History is also against them, as they are 0-13 on the road against BCS teams.

Oregon 45, Boise State 21

Baylor +12 @ Connecticut (Friday)
This is my personal perfect storm. Baylor was one of my teams to watch entering the season. Art Briles has won me a lot of cash over the years, and Robert Griffin is the future captain of my 2012 Madden team. Plus, they're 1-0 on the blog. On the other side of the coin, Connecticut has done nothing but prove me wrong the last two years....betting on them, or against them. They squeak out a glorified high school game against almighty Temple two weeks ago, then blow out Virginia last week. I really have no idea what to expect, but I'll play Russian Roulette. I'd feel okay if the gun didn't have 3 bullets and only 1 empty chamber.

Connecticut 25, Baylor 14

Mississippi State +8 @ Georgia Tech; UNDER 37.5 (Parlay)
Don't ask my why Mississippi State keeps ending up in this space; ask Danny Sheridan why he thinks Georgia Tech will beat a team by 8 points, or how he thinks these teams will get to 37.5. Both of these teams are physical and rely on their defenses. The combined totals between these teams respective games last week was 42. If the Bears played the Ravens, and the line was 8, you'd jump on the dog. This is essentially the same game.

Mississippi State 14, Georgia Tech 13

BYU -28.5 vs Wyoming
It seems like the the only possible thing that could have stopped the Cougars is finally out of the way. After beating their first BCS conference team under Bronco Mendhenhaal's watch (Washington), they thoroughly trounced UCLA, and are on their way to a potential BCS berth. The offense is awesome, and the defense isn't far behind. Wyoming has had slow starts in each game this season, and this one they won't recover from.

BYU 49, Wyoming 10

Weekly Pick'Em Results - Last Week;YTD.
Dave 7-3; 18-12
Lee 4-6; 15-15
Stasko 4-6; 13-17
Webmaster 4-6; 11-19
Freeman 4-6; 10-20

Games this Week
TENNESSEE +7.5 vs. Florida
AUBURN + 3 vs Lsu
NORTH CAROLINA -2 vs Virginia Tech
FLORIDA STATE -4 vs Wake Forest
MICHIGAN ST -8.5 vs Notre Dame
PURDUE -10.5 vs Central Michigan
TEXAS -30 vs Rice
UCLA +2.5 vs Arizona
ARIZONA ST +7 vs Georgia
TEXAS AM +4 vs Miam FL

Dave: Florida, Auburn,V. Tech,FSU,Notre Dame, Purdue,Texas,Arizona,Arizona State, Texas A&M
Lee: Florida,Auburn,V. Tech,Wake,MSU,C.Michigan,Rice,UCLA,Georgia,Texas A&M
Webmaster: Florida,LSU,UNC,FSU,Notre Dame,Purdue,Texas,Arizona,ASU,Texas A&M
Freeman:Florida,Auburn,V. Tech,Wake ,MSU,C.Michigan,Rice,UCLA,Georgia,Texas A&M
Stasko:

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 2 Number 3

2008-09-12T12:54:00.011-05:00

I like to think I redeemed myself a bit last week, ending up 4-1, only 1 point off from an unbeaten week (gambling is like hockey, I’ll take a point for a tie). Here are the updated results for BCS conferences. The news is not good, Big Least:
Conferences ATS, YTD (does not include inner conference matchups)

Big 12 11-4
SEC 9-5
Pac 10 6-2
Big 10 11-4
ACC 3-7
Big East 0-11

That last one just makes me so happy, I hate the Big East “conference”. I fail to see how a team from upstate New York and another from Kentucky can be a part of a logical grouping. Anyways, stay away from this shit conference until they start playing against each other. Then take the under on fans in the seats.

Clemson -18.5 vs. NC State
Clemson is like a more talented, early 2000s Purdue team. They look great on paper, hover within the top 20, roll inferior opponents, shit the bed vs. good teams, and re-write the Peach Bowl record books. I should have remembered this against Alabama, and bet my car on it. Luckily, NC State falls into the “inferior opponents” category. Clemson’s superior skill players will overwhelm the Wolpack, and the Tigers will pull away in the 3rd quarter

Clemson 52, NC State 20

Baylor -1 vs. Washington State (Friday)
Is Robert Griffin the next Kevin Kolb? Art Briles has a history or churning out hidden QB gems at second-tier Texas programs, and the true freshman Griffin has immediately adapted to Briles’ system. He’s graduated early to show up for spring ball, and played in two Texas high school championship games. Sounds like a mix of John David Booty and Drew Brees to me. Neither of these teams boast a ton of talent, but the Bears are at home under the lights. The Cougars are woeful, as they’ve been outscored 105-16 through two games. There won’t be much defense, but it’ll be fun.

Baylor 45, Washington Sate 35

Mississippi State +10.5 vs. Auburn
I’m giving Sylvester Croom and the boys a shot at redemption. I expect the loss to Louisiana Tech to be the exception and not the rule for this overachieving squad. As always, they won’t score a lot of points but should be able to limit an Auburn offense that hasn’t found an identity. Let’s not also forget MSU knocked off Auburn at Auburn a year ago,. The home field at night should be enough to will the Bulldogs to keep it close. I’m not calling for the upset, but that 10 plus a hook should do the job.

Auburn 19, Mississippi State 13

Arizona St. -23 vs. UNLV
ASU has an excellent offense, and defense that can back it up. Rudy Carpenter is one of the best in the Pac 10, and the running back tandem can beat teams by themselves. The Sun Devils should be able to score at will against the Runnin Rebs, who just don't have the talent to make this one a game.

ASU 48, UNLV 20

Weekly Pick'Em Results - Last Week;YTD. Tough week Ken!
Dave 5-5; 11-9
Lee 5-5; 11-9
Stasko 3-7; 9-11
Webmaster 1-9; 7-13
Freeman 3-7; 6-14

Games this Week
BYU -8 vs. Ucla
PURDUE -8.5 vs. Oregon
SOUTH CAROLINA +7.5 vs. Georgia
MISSISSIPPI ST +10.5 vs. Auburn
FRESNO ST. +2 vs. Wisconsin
NOTRE DAME +2 vs. Michigan
VIRGINIA TECH -6.5 vs. Georgia Tech
USC -10.5 vs. Ohio State
IOWA -13.5 vs. Iowa State
WASHINGTON +20.5 vs. Oklahoma

Dave: Ucla,Purdue,Georgia,Miss St.,Wisconsin,Michigan,Georgia Tech,USC,Oklahoma,Iowa State
Lee: Ucla,Oregon,Georgia,Auburn.,Wisconsin,Michigan,Virginia Tech,USC,Oklahoma,Iowa State
Webmaster: Ucla,Purdue,Georgia,Auburn.Fresno St,Michigan,Virginia Tech,USC,Oklahoma,Iowa State
Freeman: BYU,Oregon,South Carolina,Auburn.Fresno St,Michigan,Virginia Tech,USC,Washington,Iowa State
Stasko: BYU,Purdue,Georgia,Auburn,Wisconsin,Michigan,Virginia Tech,Ohio St.Washington,Iowa State

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.02

2008-09-11T20:42:00.002-05:00

Well that was a great start for Frankie in Week 1, going 4-0 in my picks and getting both suicide pool picks correct. This week looks to be a little tougher with some hard games to pick. Not to many home favorites to work with and some strong road teams.

Game 1: Pittsburgh -6 @ Cleveland
Cleveland is 0-9 in its last nine games against Pittsburgh, I believe Willie Parker is going to run around the Browns defense.

Game 2: Philadelphia +7 @ Dallas
MNF, NFC East Matchup, Great Week 1s. Dallas wins on a late FG.

Game 3: New Orleans -1 @ Washington
The Jim Zorn era will be coming to a close by the end of this year.

Game 4: Jacksonville -6.5 @ Buffalo
Fluke week 1 for the Bills.

The Ed Hochuli Tight Shirt Suicide Pool Picks
1. New York Giants
2. Jacksonville

-Frankie

Th Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 2, Number 2

2008-09-03T20:52:00.025-05:00

Week 1 was rough; 1-3 is no way to go through life. Thank god i threw in the "week 1 is dicey" disclaimer, otherwise my credibility would be shot. Hopefully you listened to the critics and stayed away from Michigan...check that - stayed away from the entire Big 10. It sickens me to see these stats, but 1 for 7 is pretty bad:

Conferences ATS, Week 1 (does not include inner conference matchups)

SEC 6-2
Pac-10 3-1
Big 12 4-3
ACC 2-4
Big 10 1-6
Big East 0-4

The only way I can interpret this is A) Play the SEC; B) Gerry DiNardo will be covering the Big 10's #3 from Detroit in late December; and C) bet your child's college fund against Dave Wannestedt at Pitt's home opener next year.

This is David vs. Goliath week; I'm putting my stones on Goliath

Georgia -24 vs. Central Michigan
The Bulldogs are the consensus #1 team in the land, and the SEC is on another level. What else is there really to say? Central Michigan is a nice MAC team, but just because they took Purdue to the wire in the "Motor City Miracle", don't expect the same against the hedges. Look more towards their 52-7 throttling at Kansas last year as a barometer. This one's over at halftime.

Georgia 56, Central Michigan 14

Arizona -22.5 vs. Toledo
The Wildcats sport a dynamic offense, led by QB Willie Tuitama,an O-line that returns 4 starters, and a stable of receivers. Last week they posted 70 on Idaho, and could have done more damage. It's yet to be seen how they'll fare against real foes, but Toledo doesn't fall into that category. Toledo has a new coach, a new defense, and a transition period is inevitable. They do have a solid QB in Aaron Opelt, but that won't be enough. Lay the points, and think about parlaying the over, which is sitting at 60.

Arizona 63, Toledo 21

Michigan State -21 vs. Eastern Michigan
I know what I said about the Big 10, but welcome back Spartans! I expect year 2 of the D'Antonio to be more of the same as a year ago - good solid defense a strong running game, and the ability to closely cover the spread. Javon Ringer is one of the Big 10's best running backs, and Mark Dell appears to be the next stud Spartan wideout. After a tough loss last week on the west coast, expect the Spartans to please the home crowd with a blowout win over one of D-1A's worst squads.

Michigan State 38, Eastern Michigan 10

Hurricane Hanna Parlay

Northwestern @ Duke, Over 45

Mississippi @ Wake Forest, Over 50

These two games all depend on the weather; if the rain and winds aren't beating down on the state of North Carolina, take the over in both of these. Northwestern returns QBs CJ Bacher and RB Tyrel Sutton to lead an offense than ranked #32 last year and throttled Syracuse last week. Duke has new offensive minded head coach in David Cutcliffe and a 3 year starter at QB in Thaddeus Lewis. Playing at home at night never hurts either, plus Duke beat NW in Evanston a year ago today.

The Deacons have been one of my favorite squads to bet on, and a new spread offense combined with an experienced Riley Skinner at the helm should equal a lot of points. Houston Nutt is at the helm now at Ole Miss, and if that means anything, he'll be creative enough to pull his weight for the over. Last week's thrashing of Memphis and fresh stable of running backs should be enough of an indication of that.

Weekly Pick'Em Results - Last Week;YTD
Dave 6-4; 6-4
Webmaster 6-4; 6-4
Lee 6-4; 6-4
Stasko 6-4; 6-4
Freeman 3-7; 3-7

Games this Week

WAKE FOREST -8 vs. Mississippi
BOSTON COLLEGE -7 vs. Georgia Tech
EAST CAROLINA +8 vs. West Virginia
PENN STATE + 16.5 vs. Oregon State
WASHINGTON + 9.5 vs. BYU
FLORIDA - 21.5 vs. Miami
WASHINGTON ST+13.5 vs. Cal
ARIZONA STATE -14 vs. Stanford
MICHIGAN -14.5 vs. Miami (OH)
DUKE +6.5 vs. Northwestern

Dave: Wake Forest, Georgia Tech, West Virginia,Oregon State,BYU, Florida,Cal,Arizona State,Michigan,Duke

Lee: Wake Forest,Georgia Tech,West Virginia,Penn State, Washington, Miami, Cal,Stanford,Miami(OH), Northwestern

Webmaster: Wake Forest, Boston College, West Virginia, Penn State, BYU,Miami, Washington State,Stanford,Michigan, Northwestern

Freeman: Wake Forest, Boston College, West Virginia, Penn State, BYU,Miami, Cal,ASU,Michigan, Northwestern

Stasko: Wake Forest,Georgia Tech,West Virginia,Penn State, BYU,Miami,Washington State, Arizona State, Michigan,Northwestern

Picks from Peter Kings Ass, Vol 2.0

2008-09-03T14:46:00.002-05:00

Thursday night is the night everyone's been waiting for, the triumphant return of the NFL. The first game of the year pits the defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants against the Washington Redskins. Two NFC East Teams, Two Playoff Teams.

1. New York Giants -4 vs. Washington Redskins
Super Bowl Champions at home last year were 3-5, losing 4 straight to end the season. Which means they were 3-1 to start the season at home. Unless the Redskins have done something magnificent since the end of the preseason this game could be over at half time.

2. Dallas -5 vs. Cleveland Browns
Look for Tony Romo to throw all over the suspect Cleveland Browns secondary, unless the Browns can get a good pass rush this could be a long game for the Dawg Pound.

3. Carolina +9.5 at San Diego
This game could go by pretty quickly with both sides concentrating on the rushing game, I like San Diego winning the game but Carolina will keep it close.

4. Green Bay -3 vs. Minnesota
The Aaron Rodgers Era is upon us.

Frankie Meadowview's Suicide Pool Picks of Week 1:
This is the toughest week to pick on the suicide pool, because you really don't know how everyone is going to perform. My advice this week is to pick a team that should win and should win easy. Don't save teams, take it one week at a time. If you don't win this week it doesn't even matter who you were going to pick next week.

Pick 1: New England
Pick 2: Pittsburgh

- Frankie

The Epic Path to the Meineke Bowl - Vol 2, Number 1

2008-08-28T16:19:00.013-05:00

Welome back to another year! As we speak, rednecks from across the country are pumping their latrines and packing their trailers in anticipation of heading to wherever Oklahoma or Alabama might be playing that particular week. I look forward to another fall of overreaction and Ohio State fan/Toledo alumni picking fights with me on the streets of Chicago.

I'll preface this by saying week 1 is dicey. Non-conference games can be tough to predict, and pre-season predictions only say so much, so proceed with caution. I'd recommend betting low and spreading your money around. It may not be a big week money wise, but bide your time and prepare to make moves in the weeks to come. Here are the picks:

Michigan -3.5 vs. Utah

Yes, Michigan lost to Appalachin State on their home opener last year. Yes, Michigan has a new coach with an offensive philosophy foreign to the program, and doesn't have the personnel to run said philosophy. Yes, Utah is a very good team that returns a ton of players (and yes, I will be betting them plenty this year). Yes, this is Michigan - at the big house - playing a mid major team. Despite a new coach, Michigan's still has blue chip talent to boot, and returns 8 starters on defense that ranked 24th nationally a year ago. Utah is going to have a tough time moving the ball, regardless of how well their defense plays. The Wolverine's offense won't be clicking on all cylinders, but a few big plays are all they'll need to hold off a Utes team that won't muster much offense. You might also want to consider the under at 40.5

Michigan 24, Utah 13

Tulsa - 13 @ UAB

Under Todd Graham, Tulsa is a program on the rise. A 10-4 team a year ago, the Golden Hurricanes return 9 starters from an offense that was #1 in total yards a year ago. The defense is suspect, but luckily they get 2007's 104th rated offense to start the slate. UAB is on a game losing streak, and though they return 19 starters, that's not necesarilly a good thing. The defense was down in the rankings near the O, ranked 114th. Tulsa will be breaking in a new Senior quarterback, but this is one game where it won't cost them. Tulsa roles, and Todd Graham's star continues to rise.

Tulsa 48, UAB 20

Minnesota -8.5 vs. Northern Illinois

There aren't many polite things one could say about Minnesota last year, but considering they return 7 offensive starters, including a sophomore QB who set a host of school passing records last year, the Gophers could score some points. Their home field also provides a unique advantage, being in a dome that tends to get very, very loud. After several years as somewhat of a darling, Northern Illinois regressed last season, finishing 2-10. They begin 2008 with a new coach and no real strengths. In the dome, Minnesota should be able to move the ball at will, and its tough to imagine Northern doing the same. Don't expect this one to be low scoring, and for God's sake please don't watch. Just take my advice, lay the points, and check the soreboard Sunday morning.

Minnesota 49, Northern Illinois 27

Mississippi St. -8 @ Louisiana Tech

I'm very impressed with the job Sylvester Croom has done at Mississippi State. He took a doormat program in the toughest conference in the land, and pumped out an 8-win season and a bowl victory. Wesley Carroll returns as a sophomore QB, after a promising true freshman season. I expect his comfort level to add up to an increase in production from the offensive side. The Bulldogs also return 7 starters from a stingy defense which ranked #21 last season. Tech is breaking in a new quarterback and is pretty mediocre in all facets. It will be difficult to put up any points at all. This one will be like clockwork, it won't be pretty but the Bulldogs take care of business.

Mississippi State 24, Louisiana Tech 3

The esteemed panel - Pick 'Em challenge

Games this week:
MICHIGAN -3.5 vs. Utah
OKLAHOMA ST. (N) -7 vs. WASHINGTON ST (N)
MINNESOTA -8 vs. Northern Illinois
VIRGINIA TECH (N) -9 vs. EAST CAROLINA
CAL -4.5 vs. Michigan State
USC -19 vs. Virginia
CLEMSON (N) -4.5 vs. ALABAMA (N)
MISSISSIPPI -7.5 vs. Memphis
LOUISVILLE -3.5 vs. Kentucky
COLORADO (N) -11 vs, Colorado State (N)

Dave: Michigan, OK St, Minn, E. Carolina, MSU, USC, Clemson, Mississippi, Kentucky, Colorado

Lee: Michigan, OK St, Minn, E. Carolina, MSU, USC, Alabama, Memphis, Kentucky, Colorado

Stasko: Michigan, OK St, Minn, V. Tech, MSU, USC, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, Colorado

Freeman: Michigan, Wash. St., Minn,V. Tech,MSU,USC,Clemson,Mississippi,Louisville, Colorado

Webmaster: Michigan, OK St,N. Illinois, V. Tech, Cal, USC, Clemson, Memphis, Kentucky, Colorado

Skip Bayless - The Human Anus

2008-05-23T15:52:00.004-05:00

By: Dave Johnson

I’ve always assumed that those who write about sports in the public eye are more knowledgeable, insightful, and creative than the average joe. However, ESPN’s Skip Bayless has single-handedly made it his point to prove me wrong. The more I read this clown, it becomes apparent that all you need to do in this business is a strong opinion, an attitude, and the ability to say stupid shit that eventually gets proven wrong. Skip is incredibly talented in each of these facets. But when it comes to applying logical arguments to backup insightful sports knowledge, his is on par with Anna Benson and Darrin Jackson.

Skip seems to be one of these breed of writers that is in it simply to stir the pot. His points are outlandish and seemingly provided for shock value alone. He’ll consistently take the second or third popular opinion on a debatable topic, make an argument and discount anyone who disagrees with him. His attitude is that anyone who doesn’t take his side is a moron. The only problem here is that his track record is laughable. Almost every time he employs this format, he’s the one that ends up looking like a jackass.

A prime example is the NFL, his favorite and supposedly most knowledgeable sport. He prides himself on knowing more than anyone about the game. If this were truly the case he’d be GM rather than a talking head, and even Skip himself said “I wonder when some NFL team will get smart enough to hire me”.(4.25.06) This quote rates high on the all-time unintentional comedy scale. In an article re-capping the 2005 NFL draft he said “Mike Williams, who finally goes to the Lions.Yes, and I ... like it. No, I love it. The Lions have strengthened their strength. If Charles Rogers can get and stay healthy, how can a defense match up with Rogers and Roy Williams split wide and Mike Williams and Az Hakim in the slots?” (4.25.05) When commenting on the Raiders acquisition of Randy Moss: “Understand, Davis made what will go down as one of the great trades in NFL history, acquiring Moss and immediately making the Raiders a playoff contender again” (4.25.06). While on staff at the Dallas Morning News in the early 90’s, he wrote a column urging the Cowboys to dump Troy Aikman and start Steve Walsh. (in related work, he tried to call out Aikman for being In the Closet). Last time I checked, Oakland and Detrot combined to go 9-23 in 2005, and Aikman has 3 super bowl rings. Apparently Skip also convinced the Buccaneers to sign Alvin Harper and acted as an agent for the Vikings in the Herschel Walker deal.

Unfortunately for us, his opinions aren’t limited to the gridiron. Back in February, as the Knicks stumbled in futility, his theory was that Larry Brown “has the league, the media and the fans right where he wants them, right where he needs them” and not to be “surprised if, come April, the only question about the Knicks is: Can they possibly make the playoffs?” (2.24.06). Theres a few hundred things one could say about that. Prior to that he said“Gerald Green, will turn out to be better than anyone else in this draft.” (6.27.05). The verdict is still out on Green, but his career has just been postmarked for failure by Bayless’s vote of confidence.

If you need a new house, make sure you read up on Bayless and bet against any prediction he makes. In the past eigth months, his picks have included USC trouncing Texas (“The Trojans, who wield the most difficult to defend offense in NCAA history, would beat Texas by two touchdowns on a neutral field. Maybe three.”(10.27.05)), UCLA downing Florida (“The Gators have no idea what they're up against.”(4.3.06)) and picking the Bengals (the Bengals!), prior to the playoffs, to win the AFC. He also advised his readers to bet heavily on Mr. T in Rocky III.

Sometimes his points are so out of leftfield its perplexing. He feels baseball should have instant replay. He believes that football should eliminate the placekicker. He thinks college football coaches should start their players even if they don’t go to class. His opinion is that Anika Sorenstem should play on the men’s PGA tour. If you are into 5-hour baseball games, rugby as a major US sport, the 1980’s Miami Hurricanes, and rampant lesbianism then I guess you can relate to Bayless. The rest of us who actually follow and care about sports don’t get it. These points are so easily refuteble and silly that I question if he actually believes them or not, or if he’s just trying to get noticed. More likely, he is just trying to create some controversy.

My theory is that Bayless has a inferiority complex. This is why he goes over the top to compensate for the fact that he’s not one bit cool, and hopes you don’t see through his phony bullshit. This is his way of getting back at the kids who didn’t pick him for schoolyard hoops, and the girls that constantly shot him down (Lisa Gastineau said that the one man she'd never date under any circumstance is ESPN commentator Skip Bayless…not saying much, but still). He has written for newspapers in Dallas, Miami, and Chicago among other but usually ends up getting canned when the editors realize he’s killing their credibilty. There are even rumors that he’s a rampant homosexual which I guess is perfect for a show like “Cold Pizza”. I’ve heard that his nickname among fellow ESPN employees is "the Human Anus."

While we are all a little bit dumber for having read Bayless the last few years, there is only one true victim here. I just finished reading Bayless’s 3^rd article on how “In 10 years, Vince Young will have won two Super Bowls and will be a cinch Hall of Famer.” Young’s fate has pretty much been sealed at this point as a top-10 bust, thanks to the Page 2 NFL genius. My recommendation is that Skip be banished to Seattle to sip lattes and take in a daily spa to deal with his menopause and cramps.

The Worst Prediction Ever Made: The Ryan Leaf Story

2008-04-26T16:56:00.001-05:00

There are few things in life that I pride myself on. I don't really care about fashion or the amount of ladies I take home from the classy Beaumont's ale house and eatery, nor do I pride myself on 18' rims or money like Diddy, but what I rest my Andy Van Slyke hat on every night is my knowledge of sports. Everyone has special talents. Some such as my boy DeBarge just know "The Rhythm of the Night", other such as U-haul spokesman Nate Newton can exploit the power of mass transit, but my talent is the ability to memorize sports figures and statistics in the blink of an eye.

There is, however, one isolated case which might have led to my permanent demotion to the nine hole in the North Dakota recreational baseball league as a sports analyst. It was April 1998 and I had just got done burning (as in with fire, not as in downloading) Will Smith's album and praying that Jenny from New Mexico would trade pics with me, when I realized I was almost late. What was I almost late for you might wonder (or you just might not give a shit)? It was draft day. 1998 NFL Draft Day. These were the draft days when Mel Kiper was just a bum who ESPN relegated to basement to move Melvin's desk around and read scouting reports about high schoolers all year long. Anyways, I had done research, mainly to see who the Steelers were going to pick (they had the 26th pick, so it was a toss who they would get), but I had to shove my chest out further than Paris Hilton in a wet tee-shirt contest, and confidently give my expert analysis on who I thought would go number one.

I was supremely confident in one man, a 6-5 quarterback from Washington State University who had torn up the Pac 10 (side note: this is before I realized they don't take defense seriously). He had just broken the single season mark for passing yards and tail under the age of 21. Not to mention an intense run for the Heisman and a victory in the Rose Bowl (side note two: the rose bowl would later be presented to us with open arms, by Citi, AT&T, Tostidos and even that herpes medicine). His name was Ryan Leaf and his huge frame, gun for an arm and pinpoint accuracy in college was the type of things that make legends. He had revitalized football in a state that as far as I know rains a lot and has an abundance of trees. He came into the NFL with high hopes, but was in an intense battle with the savior of the Tennessee band, Peyton Manning for the number one draft spot. Peyton had led the Volunteers out of the backwoods from Deliverance to the verge of the promise land. If only it wouldn't have been NFL coaching legend Steve Spurier wasting his talents in college, Peyton would have been the most famous man in Tennessee since the last famous man in Tennessee (not counting Al Gore). Either way, what was to follow would re-write Mel Kiper's (side note three: I am sorry for using two Mel Kiper references, but I never claimed to be original) guide to drafting quarterbacks and give the Bears (who at the time saw Cade McNown as the hottest thing since 10 cent glass bottle night in Cleveland) hope that every scouting department was as bad as theirs.

Going into the draft, most had labeled these two to be similar quarterbacks. They were both big, accurate, pocket passing quarterbacks. They had both tested well at the combines and were liked by the teams at the top of the draft (insert 90's Bengals joke). Leaf was a bit slower with the delivery, however, and had a slight and I mean slight attitude (which I am assuming hurt him a tad in the pros) that Peyton didn't. Peyton's dad Archie had also played in the league in the 70's, so Manning had an edge on the pedigree meter. All said, many rated Manning higher, but he was not the consensus number one. I personally was convinced Ryan Leaf was the greatest quarterback to come out of college since Joe Germaine a year earlier, knowing he was destined for greatness (or so I thought).

So the time had finally come for the draft to begin, roughly noon on that sunny Saturday and the Colts were on the clock. As I sat next to my best friend Mike Stasko on the couch, he looked to me and inquired about who I thought the Colts would take: I said, "RYAN LEAF OF COURSE! Why would they take Manning? He is not even going to be that good and was overrated in college. If they don't take Leaf, they are idiots!" Interruption for analysis: So where exactly did I go wrong here? Well looking back I would say just about everywhere.

Back to the story, so Mike looks at me and says that I have no idea what I am talking about and rattles of some stats about Manning and how good he is and offers this bet: "I bet you $20 that Peyton Manning is a better pro than Ryan Leaf." Myself, being the arrogant, boastful, elitist sports fan that I am gladly obliged.

Interruption for analysis: I overestimated my intelligence (side note four: I have not paid Mike for the bet, eight years later, out of spite).

Anyways, the bell was rung and the Colts took Manning. I continued my rant about the greatness of Ryan Leaf and how the Chargers were going to be a re-vitalized franchise with him at quarterback and how they would eventually dominate and how smart I would look for picking the best quarterback in the league. Interruption for analysis: In hindsight, these comments were probably miscalculated.

As we fast forward in history, the stats would bear out that much like the who's hotter, Jessica Alba v. Rosie O' Donnell debate, our argument would be a bit one sided. Both would go through their rookie struggles, but Leaf struggled slightly more. He completed 2 passes for touchdowns and threw 15 passes to the opposite team in the year. He also had a lower passer rating(surprisingly) and a lower percentage of completed passes than Manning. In reality, this season could have been one of the worst seasons by a quarterback in NFL history (dammit).

Interruption for my thoughts at the time: Ok...ok...A little shot at the pride, but he will get better and Manning plays for the Colts, they suck, how well can he do?

As it turns out, Leaf would spend the summer of 1999 at the Jonathan Quinn school of quarterbacking and attend leadership classes led by John Rocker. Meanwhile, Manning used the transition to three dimensional figures in Madden 99 to learn every defense in the league and threw a couple balls to his dad to improve his arm strength and accuracy. What would follow would put bigger dent into my credibility than my love of Richard Marx. Leaf would play in the city named after a whale's vagina for one more year before moving to Dallas to be outplayed by every college, high school, and middle school quarterback in the state. As we all know the story for Manning was slightly brighter.

The sad part of this story is that I can't blame this on a bottle of 151 in New Orleans or even savage brewing in my boxers at 5am in New Jersey. I was just tryin' to keep it real and it went drastically wrong. I hold out hope, however, that Leaf will work at Kurt Warner's old grocery store and find a way (while bagging maybe some apples or green beans) to revive the legendary status he reached at Washington State. And maybe Manning will lose his touch and not have the whole field of vision in Madden 2007. Otherwise, this prediction slightly out duels "the internet will never succeed" as my worst prediction ever.

"I Want My Mommy" - One Man's Opinion of Shawn Bradley

2008-04-19T10:05:00.000-05:00

By: Dave Johnson

Over there years I have developed hatred towards many professional and NCAA athletes. Most of the time, the hate stems from the player being a general menace to my squad (John Starks, Brett Favre), the player performing lights out against my team in critical moments (Josh Beckett, Steve Smith), or even a player from within choking at an inopportune moment (any Purdue football player from the post-Brees era). However, one sore thumb sticks out who deserves his own category. This chump would be none other than the Stormin’ Mormon himself, Shawn Bradley.

I have hated Bradley since the moment I first saw him in that infamous Sports Illustrated for Kids spread back in 91’. I remember seeing a picture of him standing next to one of those measuring tapes on the wall, with all these little kids watching, practically peeing their pants seeing his head hit 7’6”. The caption talked about how he would be the next great player, but I wasn’t buying it. Something about the way he stood there with that shit-eating grin and Opie-esque haircut just screamed “talentless ass-clown”. Honestly I don’t know how NBA scouts didn’t see this. However, the geniuses in Philadelphia (.297 winning percentage 1993-98) saw what I failed to see, and made this pussy the second pick in the 1993 draft.

Bradley went on to become a nightly whipping boy for all other NBA frontcourt players. He spent the better part of 13 years on the wrong end of highlight reels, fouling out, and crying on the bench. He was such an uncoordinated hack that any attempt at using him on the offensive end would have meant an automatic change of possession. His astonishing career numbers of 8.1 ppg, 6.3 rpg, .7 apg put him in the same category as modern day legends Kwame Brown, DeSagna Diop, and Kendrick Perkins. His claim to fame is blocks, but anyone 7’6” keeping their arms up all game is bound to get in the way of a few balls per game. I don’t think they keep stats on the number of time you trip over yourself or inadvertently slap an opposing player in the throat but I’m pretty sure he’d be the all-time leader in both categories.

I could sit and harp on his stats for hours, but to be fair there have been plenty of major-league busts through the years. What put this winner over the top is how he carried himself. He always had that nervous, uncomfortable expression on his face, kind of like Fredo from The Godfather. You know, the “It’s midnight, I’m white and from the suburbs, and my car just ran out of gas on 91^st and Stoney Island” look. With the aggressiveness of a manatee and toughness of a home-ec teacher, dudes like Shaq and Mourning would regularly psych him out of his skin. I’m sure he thought he was king shit dominating the 5’9 Mormon centers in Utah, but when it came to the real show, his nuts shriveled up. This asslick was head and shoulders above everyone on the court, yet he would get tossed around like a catholic school girl in Panama City. I bet if his house was on fire, this faggot would jump out the window and run without any regard for his wife and kids inside. His poor son. It must be dejecting to know your dad is the biggest pussy in the history of mankind.

As if this wasn’t enough, the constant whining and bitching to the refs and his coach only further prove that this guy had the tenacity of Ghandi. Every time he was called for a foul he’d get that pouty look on his face, the look that made the crowd expect to see him to go running off the court with his arms crossed and head down. This guy was so goddamn sensitive he couldn’t even man up for his actions. I bet he’s that guy that plays hoops in the park and calls a foul every freakin time he gets touched. I’m sure he also called his mom after every game, and tells his son that crying is acceptable anytime you feel down. He’s also that guy that chooses to “turn the other cheek”, only to turn right into another guy’s fist and end up with a missing tooth.

If you want a good laugh, Google “Shawn Bradley quotes” sometime. Here are some gems:

Bradley: "I'm a person you've got to approach in a mental way first. If you can do that with me, then the other stuff will come."

Translation: “I am intimidated by new situations. If you want me to feel comfortable around you, I need to feel loved and wanted. It’s a big scary world out there, and if you can hold my hand I will feel much safer”

Bradley: "There's not as big of an emphasis on scoring for me as there is on defense, blocking shots and going after rebounds. It's really lifted a weight off my shoulders. I've been able to go out and be more comfortable and have a lot of fun”

Translation “I think it’s pretty obvious that I don’t have what it takes to be the man. Physically I’ve got the tools, but the pressure of being the best freaks me out. To be the best you need balls, and I’m afraid that mine are a little undersized. I wish it was still like T-ball where doing you’re best is all that counted”

Thanks to Patrick Hruby and Page 2 (who had a great article on his keen ability to get dunked on which I would highly recommend), I learned that Mr. Bradley had the gumption to release an autobiography. I’m not sure why anyone would want to read about a nerdy, underachieving pussy that’s puts on clinics about wasting talent, but apparently the book can be purchased used for 5 cents. I bet this shithead just putzes around his home town in Utah, sporting his high school Varsity jacket and backwards Mavs visor. He probably recently got one ear pierced and tells everyone how “the fade he just got” is a hot new haircut. I’m sure he volunteers to do autograph signings at local bookstores, only to have no one show up. After this he goes to the local high school hang out and tries to be story-telling guy. Problem is no one gives a crap about that time Shaq dropped 40/20 on him and banged his wife after the game.

If Bradley wants to save face, he should go the George Muresan/Manute Bol route; make a joke out of your size and “skills” and sell out in every way imaginable to make a buck and draw some laughter. At least those guys knew they were clowns and cashed in on their notoriety. But this crybaby is just too sensitive for that sort of thing. Along with testicles, a sense of humor is something Bradley lacks.

This quote from The Sporting News in 1999 pretty much sums up Bradley’s career and persona. The writer was reenacting a moment he had spent with then-Maverick’s coach Don Nelson:

“Slumped in a chair staring at a can of Budweiser within arm's reach amid the self-imposed isolation of his office, Nelson softly offered, "We just don't want to see him embarrassed out there."”

Sorry Don, but you’re about 30 years late.

One Shining Moment: Billy Packer

2008-04-09T10:24:00.002-05:00

Billy Packer, what is there to say. The man needs to retire, enough said. His analysis or color or whatever the hell you want to call it is horrible, I can't speak about Saturday night's games because I was at a bar watching the games and didn't have to listen to him, but Monday night the man was atrocious.

Packer's double takes of the game last night drove me insane, where he wants Kansas to start jacking threes when they were at that point I believe 2-10 from 3-pt range. Then in overtime when Memphis was down with less than 2 left he chastised Memphis for shooting the three. What?

Billy Packer's crusade against the mid-majors needs to end, comon we all remember him getting into it with St. Joe's coach Phil Martelli when they got a number 1 seed on the backs of Jameer Nelson and Delonte West. He's always critical of the mid-majors who as of late have been representing themselves just fine in the tournament.

I want to share this screen shot of Billy Packer's wikipedia page. This was from Monday night right when the NCAA Championship game was ending. By the time I called my friends to alert them the text was gone, but the screen print lives on.

You'll notice under the memorable calls section it says "Also, Billy Packer announced the 2008 NCAA Championship game featuring Memphis vs. Kansas. Everyone turned mute on from the 19:38 mark in the first half. Our apologies to Jim Nantz"

Final Four - Championship Game

2008-04-07T08:01:00.002-05:00

I've been going back and forth over this pick since Saturday night. Memphis on one hand who handled UCLA with no problem, they didn't blow them out but kept them at arms reach the whole time. Kansas who was up by 28, let it get down to 4 and then won by 18. The final score to this game tonight could be 99-97.

I'm leaning towards Kansas.

NCAA Championship Game
Kansas +2 vs. Memphis (@ San Anotinio)

Rock Chalk Jawhawk

Final Four Picks

2008-04-04T17:24:00.002-05:00

The Final Four is finally here, with all four number 1 seeds running the chalk right through the bracket. Besides Davidson, this was a big year of chalk with only a few upsets along the way. I believe the four best teams have made it to the Final Four this year and we should hopefully see two outstanding games Saturday night.

Game 1:
Memphis -2.5 vs. UCLA

Game 2:
Kansas +4 vs. North Carolina

I really hope the Tarheels lose so we can hear all their fans cry like little babies over how their team got screwed.

North Carolina Tarheel Fans = Crybabies

2008-04-01T10:01:00.002-05:00

This last weekend, I ventured to the NCAA East Regional games to watch some basketball. I must say, the North Carolina Tarheel fans are the biggest bunch of crybabies I have ever heard. Every single time a call was made against them, whether it be an obvious walk, a blocked shot that could have gone either way, or just a bad call. The fans around us and in the stadium would begin whining about the call, and then even when a replay was shown that the player was fouled they still complained.

I don't know what the deal is with North Carolina fans, whether they think they are God's gift to basketball or if they just don't have the basketball knowledge they should have. Maybe it's just that most of the fans were old and senile and don't know the game but feel they are wronged everytime a call doesn't go North Carolina's way. It's absurd how bad it was, I believe that if Louisville would have came back and won there might have been a riot at the Charlotte Arena on Saturday.

With that being said, I just want to make sure that North Carolina fans know that they are not God's gift to basketball and that when a coach is yelling onto the court 90% of the time he is yelling at one of his players, or what I like to call COACHING, not yelling at the refs like the idiots behind us that yelled "T Pitino Up" everytime Pitino yelled something on to the court.

One Shining Moment: Sweet 16

2008-03-26T17:18:00.002-05:00

Well now we're getting down to it, the Sweet 16. This is normally the time when the Cinderella has their chance to shine while the top teams have a chance to polish their game for the next weekend. Frankie Meadowview is headed out to the East Region games tomorrow and should be back at some point with his elite 8 picks.

Game 1:
Xavier +1 vs. West Virginia (@ Phoenix)

Game 2:
Washington State +8 vs. North Carolina (@ Charlotte)

Game 3:
UCLA -12.5 vs. Western Kentucky (@ Phoenix)

Game 4:
Louisville -2.5 vs. Tennessee (@ Charlotte)

Game 5:
Wisconsin -4.5 vs. Davidson (@ Detroit)

Game 6:
Texas -2 vs. Stanford (@ Houston)

Game 7:
Kansas -11.5 vs. Villanova (@ Detroit)

Game 8:
Michigan State +5 vs. Memphis (@ Houston)

One Shining Moment: Sunday

2008-03-23T09:30:00.002-05:00

The ball is tipped
and there you are
you're running for your life
you're a shooting star
- One Shining Moment

Game 1:
Texas -7 vs. Miami (FL) (@ Little Rock)

Game 2:
Davidson +5 vs. Georgetown (@ Raleigh)

Game 3:
Louisville -7 vs. Oklahoma (@ Birmingham)

Game 4:
Tennessee -4.5 vs. Butler (@ Birmingham)

One Shining Moment: Saturday

2008-03-21T14:46:00.003-05:00

Here are my picks for Saturday's action. All lines today were taken off Danny Sheridan's website. Great day of action on Thursday and the 1st set of games Friday afternoon were great as well. Western Kentucky with a buzzer beater in OT knocking off Drake hurts, since I took Drake -4, and Davidson had a nice home win against Gonzaga.

Game 1:
West Virginia +3.5 vs. Duke (@ Washington D.C.)

Game 2:
Wisconsin -5 vs. Kansas State (@ Omaha)

Game 3:
Xavier -2.5 vs. Purdue (@ Washington D.C.)

Game 4:
Marquette +2.5 vs. Stanford (@ Anaheim)

Game 5:
Pittsburgh -1.5 vs. Michigan State (@ Denver)

One Shining Moment: Friday

2008-03-20T10:49:00.002-05:00

Merry NCAA Tournament Day!!!!

I'm running out to the bar now, so I might not get a write up in for my Friday picks, but the 5 I like are listed below.

Game 1:
Drake -4 vs. Western Kentucky (@ Tampa)

Game 2:
South Alabama +4.5 vs. Butler (@ Birmingham)

Game 3:
Vanderbilt -6.5 vs. Siena (@ Tampa)

Game 4:
Villanova +6 vs. Clemson (@ Tampa)

Game 5:
Indiana -1.5 vs. Arkansas (@ Raleigh)

One Shining Moment: Thursday

2008-03-19T12:22:00.003-05:00

Thursday starts the beginning of one of the best long weekends of the year. Non-stop basketball from 10 am to 10 pm. With that being said, I think this year's tournament is going to be a great one with a lot of good solid teams throughout the bracket.

My Final Four: Kansas, North Carolina, Texas, Xavier
Final Game: Kansas overTexas

Game 1:
Xavier -8 vs. Georgia (@ Washington D.C.)
The Musketeers have got to be steaming after their early exit in the A-10 tournament. With that being said, it's time for Georgia's run to end and it happens at the hands of Xavier.

Game 2:
Temple +7 vs. Michigan State (@ Denver)
Winning the A-10 probably gave a big boost of confidence to the Owls, especially after beating cross town rivals St. Joseph's for the 3rd time. I like the Owls, if it's close Michigan State has shown the ability to fall apart at the end.

Game 3:
Marquette -6 vs. Kentucky (@ Anaheim)
The committee put a questionable Kentucky team in the tournament, when there were definitely others that had better resumes. I like the Golden Eagles, they looked great against Notre Dame last week.

Game 4:
Oral Roberts +8.5 vs. Pittsburgh (@ Denver)
Pittsburgh's great run last week to win the Big East conference tournament was great for the program, not covering against Oral Roberts tomorrow will not be.

Game 5:
Purdue -3 vs. Baylor (@ Washington D.C.)

Let's start this off at the beginning... 1987

Joe Lunardi's Tuxedo: Day 5

2008-03-16T11:59:00.004-05:00

This is it, todays the day the bubble teams find out if they have life in the NCAA's or are sent packing to the NIT.

ACC: Clemson +5 vs. North Carolina

Big 10: Wisconsin -7 vs. Illinois

Big 12: Texas +6 vs. Kansas

SEC: Arkansas -8 vs. Georgia

Ken B, Chicago: How come Joe Lunardi was in a Tuxedo at the St. Joes/Xavier game last week, is his role as Joey Brackets going to his head?

Dana O'Neil: (5:46 PM ET ) Ken: Nope, last game of the season plus Fieldhouse going under renovations and will be shut down for a year. I, however, asked him where his prom date was.

Joe Lunardi's Tuxedo: Day 4

2008-03-15T10:56:00.002-05:00

Since I sucked yesterday as well, Frankie Meadowview is taking the day off and going out on the streets to celebrate St. Patricks day with the rest of the kids in Chicago. That being said, I'll be back tomorrow with the ACC, Big 12, Big 10, and SEC games.

I don't like Georgetown in todays Big East Championship.

This should cheer you up...

Joe Lunardi's Tuxedo: Day 3

2008-03-14T11:42:00.005-05:00

Wow. Zero for Four, 0-4, Goose Egg, Nada, Zlich. That's how I did on Thursday. All I can say is the only game I did win, was the Flyers covering against Xavier but I didn't even mark that one on the blog cause it started to early.

I watched this a few times this morning to cheer me up.

On to the games...

Game 1:
Purdue -4.5 vs. Illinois (@ Conseco Fieldhouse

Game 2:
Xavier -5.5 vs. St. Joesph's (@ Atlantic City)
St. Joe's is on the bubble and if they beat Xavier they are in, however, don't look for them to repeat the performance of last week against Xavier, unless Atlantic City is hosting a formal function and Joe Lunardi will be there with his tuxedo on.

Game 3:
Georgetown -3 vs. West Virginia (@ MSG)

Game 4:
Kansas State -1.5 vs. Texas A&M (@ Sprint Center)
There is no way Kansas State cannot be in the NCAA Tournament, Michael Beasley is the best player in the country and I don't see the NCAA allowing him not to be in. I wouldn't be surprised to see the refs lean towards the Wildcats after reading a memo from Myles Brand.

Joe Lunardi's Tuxedo: Day 2

2008-03-13T12:08:00.003-05:00

An ok start to the conference tournaments yesterday going 2-2. It was a frustrating day watching the Dayton/St. Louis game, Dayton who should have easily covered forgot again how to shoot free throws and break a press. Those to Frankie Meadowview seem like pretty fundamental things a team should be able to do.

Today we see the quarterfinals in the A-10, Big East, and Pac-10, while the SEC, ACC, and Big 12 kick off their tournaments.

Game 1:
Louisville -4.5 vs. Pittsburgh (@ MSG)
Pittsburgh had a good win against Cincy yesterday, however they're playing against Louisville who's been playing great as of late going 9-1 in their last 10. The Cardinals had a tough loss against Georgetown last weekend, and look for them to win today by enough.

Game 2:
Massachusetts -3.5 vs. Charlotte (@ Atlantic City)
Charlotte had a nail bitter last night against Rhode Island with a bucket with 8 seconds left to seal the game and the cover. However, UMass has been playing great ball lately and needs a couple wins to get into the dance.

Game 3:
Notre Dame Pk vs. Marquette (@ MSG)
Marquette has had a great season so far and will be dancing next week, but Notre Dame has also had a great season and is playing for a 3 or 4 seed depending on the wins they can get in Big East Tournament, I'm taking Notre Dame to win. Go Rudy!

Game 4:
Florida -3.5 vs. Alabama (@ Georgia Dome)
The 2 time defending champs need a couple of wins to make the dance this year after a sloppy last 10 games by going 3-7. However, when its time, Billy Donovan will have the team ready to go and to take down Bama.

Joe Lunardi's Tuxedo

2008-03-12T10:51:00.002-05:00

Frankie Meadowview back at you today with the first of a few college basketball posts. Did anyone catch the St. Joes/Xavier game last thursday night. The night Joe Lunardi was in the stands wearing a tuxedo? We are still trying to figure out why he was wearing a tuxedo, my spamming on his sportsnation chat on ESPN did not get the question answered.

However, lets move on to some of the games tonight.

Well first off, of course I'm taking the Dayton Flyers (-6) against Saint Louis, but that game tips off in 6 minutes, I'll take the Flyers who have won 3 straight to get back on track after a disastrous A-10 run this year. Hopefully, Chris Wright gets in, rumor has it he's back and going to be dressed.

First Game:
Cincinnati +9 vs. Pittsburgh (@ MSG)
The teams have played twice this year and both home teams won, while Cincinnati was 2-0 ATS. Look for Cincy to bounce back after the ass kicking that was given to them at UConn this weekend. Bearcats lose the game, but keep it within 9.

Second Game:
Charlotte +1.5 vs. Rhode Island (@ Atlantic City)
Another A-10 match, this one pitting the streaking 49ers against a falling Rhode Island. Rhode Island was once ranked in the nation hitting 22nd but has since fallen off after going 7-9 in conference with a loss to Charlotte on Saturday to end the regular season. Take the 49ers.

Third Game:
Washington +2.5 vs. California (@ Staples Center)
California has lost 5 straight, and are 3-7 in the last 10 games. Take the Huskies.

Picks From Peter King's Ass - Super Bowl

2008-01-31T16:01:00.000-06:00

Well Super Fans, it is time again for the big game. This is the last time you are going to see us for a while, so get yourself a nice Meadowview and enjoy the Sunset. We are very excited about this match-up. Two very solid teams. One that has dominated all year, the other got hot at the right time and has been putting away each "superior" opponent for the past three games. Can Eli keep it together for one more game? Can the Giants stout D-line get to Brady and mess up the passing attack? Will Brady's ankle upset the Pat's throwing game? Can Tom Coughlin really stay in a game against a two week prepared Bill Belichick? How many late/dirty hits will Rodney Harrison have? How many chicks will melt in their pants when they see Tom Brady? How big of a TV can you rent for a month just so that you can have a big screen TV to watch the big game? These questions, and many more, will be answered in just a few short days. Now sports fans, onto the game…..

I think we have a shot at a great game here. The Pats come in with 18 straight victories. The Giants have played as well as anyone the past 4 weeks. The teams saw each other in the final game of the season and NY traded blows with NE as well as anyone has this year. There are some great match-ups in this game: NE's o-line against NY's d-line, NY's rushing attack against the AARP NE linebacker core, the Pat's receivers against NY's DBs, and on and on. Everyone wants to look at the Pats and give them an edge because they have been there 3 times already, but do not forget how much turnover there is in the NFL. There are only four people on the Pats squad who have been there since the beginning. Another group of people want to give the Giants the nod because of how well they have played the last few weeks and liken this Giant team to the Patriots team of 2001 that came in as huge underdogs and beat the "unbeatable" St. Louis Rams. You could make a strong argument for either team, which to me says that 12 points is too many. This game should stay tight throughout. There is firepower on both sides of the ball, which may lead you to believe that this will be a shoot out, but I do not think that is going to happen. I think both coaches gear up on the defensive side of the ball and make this a tight game. The Giants are going to want to control the clock, with a big helping of Brandon Jacobs, to keep Brady and company off the field. The Pats are going to have to dink and dunk there way down the field to avoid NY's pass rush. This should keep the game tight and interesting throughout the game.

Pick: NY +12
Frankie Meadowview says take Plax's prediction and put it on the money line of NY Giants +325.

If you want to go for the bigger bucks, parlay the under 54.

Super Bowl Prop Bet Time all from bodoglife.com, bold are our choices.

How Long will it take Jordin Sparks to sing the National Anthem?

Over 1m42s -115
Under 1m42s -115

Coin Toss

Heads -103
Tails -103

How many times with Joe “Sucks” Buck mention Peyton Manning’s name during the broadcast?

Over 5.5 -120
Under 5.5 -120

How many times will Archie Manning be shown on the TV Broadcast?

Over 4.5 -150
Under 4.5 +150

Picks From Peter King's Ass - Championship Weekend

2008-01-19T15:56:00.000-06:00

Frankie Meadowview here hoping you followed his picks last week and made as much money as I did, after going 4-4 in the Divisional Round, I hope to follow it up with two great picks for Championship weekend!

AFC: San Diego +14 @ New England
After a big win last week in Indy, I think the Bolts will keep it close but eventually fall to the Pats in a closely fought battle.

NFC: NY Giants +7 @ Green Bay
Coming off two road playoff wins, look for the Giants and Packers to both establish the run early and often in this game thats calling for wind chills of below zero.

Picks From Peter King's Ass - Divisional Round

2008-01-12T12:56:00.000-06:00

Divisional Round

Welcome back ladies and gents, it has been awhile, but we are back in full force this week for the Divisional Round. Child paternity suits and horrible drug addictions have kept us from writing the past few weeks, but we are pretty sure that is all behind us now. By the way, if anyone asks, I was definitely NOT in Tijuana last weekend, and if by some chance you were, that person I was with swore that she was a woman. Anyway, without further ado, the Divisional picks…

Game 1: GREEN BAY +7.5 over Seattle

I went back and forth on this one because I am afraid a strong Seattle pass rush may get to Favre and force a number of questionable throws. I was also mildly impressed with Seattle's win over the Skins last week. Then I looked at Seattle's schedule. During the regular season, Seattle only beat one playoff team (Tampa Bay in the first game of the year). They also had a poor road record losing to Arizona, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Carolina, and Atlanta. These things considered, and also factoring in GB's explosive offense and tough D, we are going with GB.

Final Score: GB 28 Seattle 14

Game 2: Jacksonville +13 over NEW ENGLAND

This is another tough pick. NE blew out most of their opponents this year but I feel Jacksonville's style of play should be a tough match-up for NE. Jacksonville can pound the ball (which should be effective against an aging, slower LB unit for NE) to keep Brady and company off the field. Also, Gerrard has done a good job protecting the ball all year. I feel this combination should keep the game close even though NE will still win.

Final Score: NE 24 Jax 17

Game 3: INDIANAPOLIS -9 over San Diego

Philip Rivers runs his mouth better than he runs SD's offense. Granted, Tennessee has a solid D, but SD put up a whopping 0 points in the first half last week. This is another team that you need to go back and look at their schedule to see how they were able to get into the playoffs. SD played in the atrocious AFC West and only had one win over a playoff team (they beat Indy when Peyton threw 6 interceptions and Vinatieri missed a 30 yard field goal). Indy has had a few weeks to rest and Marvin Harrison makes his return, which means bad news for SD. Colts win this one easy.

Final Score: Indy 35 SD 10

Game 4: New York Giants +7.5 over DALLAS

Dallas should be able to pull out a win here, but it should be a close game. The Giants play very well on the road and Eli has been looking like a legit NFL QB the last few weeks against very solid defenses. Expect another solid game by Eli. TO still appears to be banged up which is going to effect the play calling for Dallas. If the Giants can pound the ball with Jacobs and play-action pass down the field against Dallas' suspect DBs, the Giants should be able to keep this one close. Look for a tough, close ballgame this Sunday.

Final Score: Dallas 35 NYG 31

Frankie Meadowview's Picks for the Divisional Round

Green Bay -7 vs. Seattle
Jacksonville +13 @ New England
San Diego +8.5 @ Indianapolis
New York Giants +7 @ Dallas

That's right, this is the week of the road cover!

Take this 4-team Teaser as well!
Green Bay -1 vs. Seattle
Jacksonville +19 @ New England
San Diego +14.5 @ Indianapolis
New York Giants +13 @ Dallas

And if you really want to gamble, load up on this pick straight up.

New York Giants (+265) over Dallas

Picks From Peter King's Ass - Wild Card

2008-01-04T13:12:00.000-06:00

The Wild Card Weekend is approaching and Frankie Meadowview and Tom Sunset are back with their Wild Card picks.

Tom Sunset's Picks without a write up, what a lazy ass.
Washington +3.5 @ Seattle
San Diego -9 vs. Tennessee
NY Giants +3 @ Tampa Bay
Jacksonville -2 @ Pittsburgh

Frankie's Picks Straight Up are:
Washington +3.5 @ Seattle
Tennessee +9 @ San Diego
NY Giants +3 @ Tampa Bay
Pittsburgh +2 vs. Jacksonville

Frankie's 4-Team Teaser:
Washington +9.5 @ Seattle
Tennessee +15 @ San Diego
NY Giants +9 @ Tampa Bay
Pittsburgh +8 vs. Jacksonville

Picks from Peter King's Ass

2007-12-15T10:27:00.000-06:00

Welcome back, hopefully you made a few dollars last week with Sunset's Sure Shot's who went 5-2 in his weekly roundup. Frankie Meadowview is back today with his 3 Teasers of the Weekend!

Teaser 1:
Baltimore +3 @ Miami
Philadelphia +15.5 @ Dallas
N.Y. Giants +2 vs. Washington
Minnesota -3.5 vs. Chicago

Teaser 2:
New Orleans +2.5 vs. Arizona
Buffalo +11.5 @ Cleveland
Jacksonville +9.5 @ Pittsburgh
Green Bay -1.5 @ St. Louis

Teaser 3:
Atlanta +18 @ Tampa Bay
New England -18.5 vs. Jersey/B
Seattle -1 @ Carolina
Indianapolis -4.5 @ Oakland

Picks From Peter King's Ass

2007-12-09T01:55:00.000-06:00

Sunset's Sure-Shot Picks Week 14.

Sorry for the hiatus but me and my friends have been have been too busy sunbathing off the coast of St. Bart's with spider monkeys for the past two weeks, tripping on acid to update the usual picks. Changed our whole perspective on shit. What does this mean? Expect to win some money this week. Due to the couple weeks off, we'll throw in a couple extra games this week. Now, onto the picks.

Game 1: BUFFALO -7 over Miami

Buffalo has been playing well lately and is looking for an outside shot at the playoffs this year. The Bills are a solid team and very tough at home. Miami is trying to solidify status as the worst NFL team ever. Miami is equally bad everywhere.

Final Score: Buffalo 27 Miami 10

Game 2: JACKSONVILLE -10 over Carolina

Jax needs to rebound from a tough loss last week at Indy. They are now playing for a wild card spot and will be eager to get one more this weekend. Who even knows who will be playing QB this week for Carolina, but there is one thing you can bank on, whoever plays will be bad. Look for an old fashioned stomping in this game.

Final Score: Jax 35 Carolina 3

Game 3: Minnesota -8 over SAN FRAN

Minny has outscored their last 3 teams by a score of 112-49. San Fran hasn't scored 112 points this whole year. Minny's D has been tough all year and now that they have an offense, this is a dangerous team in the NFC. Look for another big win for the Vikes this week as SF does it's best to give the Patriots a top 3 pick.

Final Score: Minny 28 SF 7

Game 4: Cleveland -3 JETS

Although I feel this game is going to be closer than a lot of the pundits will have you believe, Cleveland should be able to pull out a relatively close one here against the Jets. Cleveland is still fighting for a playoff spot and should be extra motivated this week after losing a close game last week on a questionable call. Look for Anderson and company to show up like they have all year and put another W on the board.

Final Score: Clev 31 Jets 24

Game 5: DENVER -6.5 over KC

KC is as bad as they looked during Hard Knocks. They fooled us for a few weeks, but are now back to Earth and will struggle the rest of the year. KC has put up relatively no offense this year and will be without Larry Johnson. Denver still has a shot at the playoffs and will need a big win this week to get that playoff push rolling.

Final Score: Denver 24 KC 3

Game 6: Tampa Bay -1.5 over HOUSTON

TB has a tough D and had been playing solid ball throughout the year. Houston has been up and down, but they are banged up right now and should have a lot of trouble handling TB this weekend. Garcia should be back for this one, but Gruden has shown this year that he can win no matter who is playing QB. Look for a close one.

Final Score: TB 21 Houston 17

Game 7: Pittsburgh +12 over NEW ENGLAND

This one makes me a little nervous because Pittsburgh has been shaky on the road, but NE has had two scares the last two weeks and this may be the week that the calls finally go the other way. Pitt is bringing the top ranked D and has an offense that can grind the ball. This makes them a strong match-up for Pitt and should be enough to keep it close enough. Take the points.

Final Score: NE 27 Pitt 24

The Epic Path to The Meineke Bowl

2007-11-29T14:57:00.001-06:00

Week of December 1, 2007

By: Dave Johnson

Boston College +4.5 vs. Virginia Tech

It's tough to bet against a team with an excellent defense and a top tier quarterback. Aside from a two-week hiatus from the win column in early November, the Eagles are perfect. Matt Ryan is Heisman-worthy and the run defense might be the best in the country. Virginia Tech is vulnerable in the secondary and hasn't been able to develop a consistent offensive identity. These two factors will be come back to haunt them. In their first match up, only the rain could slow Ryan down, and as soon is it stopped he had his way in the passing game. Unfortunately for Virginia Tech, no rain in the forecast for Jacksonville Saturday. Hokies keep it close, as they normally do, but BC outman’s them and takes the crown.

Boston College 27, Virginia Tech 20

Tennessee +7.5 vs. LSU
Tennessee, left for dead early in the year, has quietly marched its way into the SEC championship game. Winners of 5 in a row and 8 of 9, the Vols are riding a full head of steam. The offense is clicking on all cylinders, led by Erik Ainge and his 27/8 TD/INT ratio. The defense leaves something to be desired but has made the big plays when they needed to. This is the type of team that has learned how to win over the course of the year, and it all comes to a head this Saturday. LSU's defense has wilted, and the program is surrounded by distractions. The team's national championship aspirations have evaporated. Anything at this point is a consolation prize. Their head coach (whose always been on a short leash with the LSU faithful) is openly flirting with the Michigan job. Their defensive coordinator is rumored to be headed to Nebraska. There's too much drama in the bayou. LSU has the edge on talent, but the Vols will be more focused and will come out more motivated. I like the Vols to win, and a favorable spread to fall back on.

Tennessee 34, LSU 28

West Virginia -28 vs. Pittsburgh

I usually don't like spreads this outrageously high, but I can't pass on the opportunity to bet on Rich Rodriguez and against Dave Wannestedt simultaneously. West Virginia consistently runs ups the score, to the point that Rodriguez must owe someone a lot of dough. On the field, the Mountaineers speed is unparalleled and the defense is stifling. Pittsburgh plays okay D, but won't be able to move the ball on West Virginia. This will lead to excellent field position all night, which will in turn lead to a ton of points for the Mountaineers. I'd pay to be a fly on the wall of Pitt's locker room during Dave's halftime speech; it should make for some solid unintentional comedy. This one is over after the first series

West Virginia 56, Pitt 17

Hawaii -14 vs. Washington

This one could get pretty ugly as well. Hawaii boasts the #1 scoring and #2 passing offenses in the country. Colt Brennan came back with a vengeance last week after sitting out much of the game before, passing for 495 yards and 5 TDs. Expect more of the same against a Washington D that hasn't been able to stop anyone all year. The only chance the Huskies have is if Louis Rankin can get going on the ground, like he did against Stanford and Cal. Hawaii is actually decent at stopping the run, so I don't foresee that happening. Add the motivation of an undefeated regular season and a BCS bid, and this looks like an ass kicking to me. The Huskies can't keep up with the Warriors bombs-away attack as Hawaii wins convincingly.

Hawaii 52, Washington 28

The Rest of the Esteemed Panel
Oklahoma -3 vs. Missouri
Tennessee +7.5 vs. LSU
Arizona +7 @ Arizona State
Rutgers +2.5 @ Louisville
UCLA +20 @ USC

Tom Sunset – Missouri, Tennessee, Arizona, Louisville, USC
Webmaster – Oklahoma, LSU, Arizona, Rutgers, USC
Dave – Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arizona, Louisville, USC
Lee – Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arizona State, Louisville, UCLA
Freeman – Oklahoma, LSU, Arizona State, Louisville, USC
MJ – Missouri, LSU, Arizona State, Rutgers, USC

2007-11-21T20:56:00.000-06:00

The Epic Path to The Meineke Bowl

Week of November 24, 2007

By: Dave Johnson

Due to family obligations, The Webmaster has given me the forum. Let me take this time to thank the Michigan State Spartans and Dave Wannestedt for an above average year thus far. Here's hoping we can keep the momentum alive and close the year out with a bang.

Arizona State +3.5 vs. USC
No one expected Arizona State to be where they are at the beginning of the season. Their defense is one of the best in the country, while the offense has consistently moved the chains. Rudy Carpenter is back at full strength and putting together an excellent season (all the while banging Sam Keller's ex-girlfriend). Now USC comes to town for a prime time matchup and the Sun Devil's biggest home game in years. A win would take them one step closer to a Rose Bowl bid. Think motivation will be an issue? The Trojans have been up and down all season. The running game has been great at times but has the ability to disappear against good defenses. Booty will be running for his life against this D, and lets face it folks, there's only so much he can do. The Sun Devils shut down USC's attack, the offense does enough to win, and Dennis Erickson wins another big stage game.

Arizona State 31, USC 27

Oregon -2 @ UCLA
The potential Heisman may have gone down, but there is more to this program than Dennis Dixon. Jonathan Stewart has been holding his own at tailback, and the D has flown under the radar all year. The experience in itself is enough to clean up the Bruins. This isn't Kareem's UCLA. They're down to their third string everything and a shell of their former self. Mike Belotti doesn't care. The Ducks converted a fourth down, scored, and obtained the two point conversion on their first drive last game. He's pulling out the stops. The D causes a few turnovers, while running game takes advantage

Oregon 34, UCLA 21

Wake Forest -1.5 @ Vanderbilt
Defending ACC champ Wake Forest is quietly putting together another solid season. After 2 losses following 6 straight victories, the Demon Deacons appear to be back after a thrashing of NC State last week. I don't know what it is about this team but they always seem to get the job done. There's nothing flashy about their style but they play good defense and move the ball well enough to win. Vanderbilt is similar on paper, but they seem to be on the other side of karma. They allowed opportunities slip away against Tennessee and Kentucky, and you know they're emotionally drained from that. My recommendation is to ride the Deacons and check the score Sunday. It won't be fun to watch but it's a solid bet.

Wake Forest 23, Vanderbilt 13

Central Michigan -2.5 @ Akron
The MAC may be back to being the MAC, but Central Michigan is the class of this weak conference. Dan LeFevour leads an attack that averages 430 yards and 33.5 points per game. Akron is anemic on offense (shutout last week) and won't be able to hang with the Chippewas. Akron would need some timely turnovers to pull this one off, and weather may end up being a factor. But the spread is favorable, CMU is a better team, and the Rubber Bowl isn't exactly the Big House.

Central Michigan 38, Akron 20

Picks from Peter King's Ass

2007-11-20T15:37:00.000-06:00

Frankie Meadowview is getting out the picks early this week with his money making teasers. After going 2-3 on 4 team teasers you would have grossed a profit of $70 on 4 team teasers that pay 4-1 with $10 bets.

3 Team Thanksgiving Day Teaser
Green Bay +9.5 @ Green Bay
Dallas -8 vs Jersey/B
Indianapolis -5.5 @ Atlanta ß hope you have the NFL Network

4 Team Teaser - A
Giants -1 vs Minnesota
San Diego -3.5 vs Baltimore
Cleveland +2.5 vs Houston
Tennessee +3.5 @ Cincinnati

4 Team Teaser - B
Kansas City +0.5 vs Oakland
Washington +9 @ Tampa Bay
Denver +5 vs Chicago
Philadelphia +28.5 @ New England

Happy Betting!

Weekly Pick'em Results

2007-11-20T11:10:00.000-06:00

The Weeks Results:

MJ – 6-4
Webmaster – 5-5
Dave – 5-5
Freeman – 4-6
Tom Sunset – 3-7
Lee – 2-8

Total Results:

Webmaster – 39-35
Freeman – 38-36
MJ – 35-37
Tom Sunset – 33-41
Dave – 33-41
Lee – 29-44

The Rest of the Esteemed Panel

Texas -6 @ Texas A&M
Missouri +2 @ Kansas
Clemson -3 @ South Carolina
Tennessee +1.5 @ Kentucky
Oregon -2.5 @ UCLA
Alabama +6 @ Auburn
Georgia -3.5 @ Georgia Tech
Florida State +13.5 @ Florida
Virginia Tech -3.5 @ Virginia
Notre Dame +3.5 @ Stanford

Tom Sunset – Texas, Missouri, Clemson, Kentucky, UCLA, Auburn, Georgia, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Notre Dame

Webmaster – Texas, Missouri, Clemson, Kentucky, UCLA, Auburn, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Stanford

Dave – Texas, Kansas, South Carolina, Kentucky, Oregon, Alabama, Georgia Tech, Florida State, Virginia, Stanford

Lee – Texas, Missouri, South Carolina, Tennessee, UCLA, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Stanford

Freeman – Texas, Missouri, South Carolina, Tennessee, Oregon, Auburn, Georgia, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Notre Dame

MJ – Texas, Missouri, South Carolina, Kentucky, UCLA, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Virginia Tech, Stanford

Picks from Peter King's Ass

2007-11-17T09:20:00.000-06:00

Not sure where Tom Sunset is this week but he didn't get his picks over to the webmaster, so we'll let Frankie Meadowview take the lead with his 3 and 4 team teasers this weekend.

Teaser 1:
Pittsburgh -3 @ Jersey/B
Minnesota +1/2 vs Oakland
New Orleans +6 @ Houston

Teaser 2:
Tennessee +8 1/2 @ Denver
Green Bay -4 vs Carolina
Dallas -5 vs Washington
Tampa Bay +3 at Atlanta

Teaser 3:
Cleveland +3 @ Baltimore
Arizona +9 at Cincinnati
Philadelphia - 4 1/2 vs Miami
Chicago +11 1/2 at Seattle

These are your best bets to make a little money after you've won your money on Saturday from following the Epic Path to the Meineke Car Bowl.

Happy Betting.