Mock Draft 2.0

Here is my second installment of my NFL Mock Draft for the 2009 season. If you missed my first draft, it is right HERE! Time for version 2.0 with the current order of the NFL draft.

1. Detroit Lions -- Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
2. St. Louis Rams -- Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
3. Kansas City Chiefs -- Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
4. Seattle Seahawks -- Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
5. Cleveland Browns -- Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
6. Cincinnati Bengals -- Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
7. Oakland Raiders -- Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
8. Jacksonville Jaguars -- Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
9. Green Bay Packers -- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
10. San Francisco 49ers -- Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
11. Buffalo Bills -- Everette Brown, DE, Florida State
12. Denver Broncos -- Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
13. Washington Redskins -- Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
14. New Orleans Saints -- James Laurinitis, ILB, Ohio State
15. Houston Texans -- Taylor Mays, S, USC
16. San Diego Chargers -- B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
17. New York Jets -- Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
18. Chicago Bears -- George Selvie, DE, South Florida
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas) -- Michael Smith, OT, Baylor
21. Arizona Cardinals -- Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
22. Philadelphia Eagles -- Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
23. Minnesota Vikings -- Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
24. New England Patriots -- DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt
25. Atlanta Falcons -- Terrance Cody, DT, Alabama
26. Miami Dolphins -- William Moore, S, Missouri
27. Baltimore Ravens -- Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
28. Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina) -- Jermaine Greshem, TE, Oklahoma
29. Indianapolis Colts -- Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
30. Pittsburgh Steelers -- Ciron Black, OT, LSU
31. New York Giants -- Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
32. Tennessee Titans -- Victor Harris, CB, Viriginia Tech

Next mock draft will be after the bowl games!!

Playoffs?

Well, this weekend brings some dilemma upon us. The National Football League has some sort of tourament to decide who will meet in the Super Bowl. I think they call it the system a playoff? What was that Jim Mora?



You have to love teams meeting on the field to decide who becomes the ultimate winner. Anyways, here is my short analysis of the field and who will become the champion of Super Bowl XLIII.

In the wild card round this coming weekend, all four road teams are favorites. What does that say about home field advantage in the NFL? The Arizona Cardinals have looked terrible in recent weeks and the Atlanta Falcons are rolling. I think they can keep the momentum and deliver a victory behind the legs of Michael Turner. In the other NFC game, I see Minnesota winning this game at home. If Tavaris Jackson doesn't turn the ball over and the Vikings get a normal game out Adrian Peterson they should prevail. The Eagles will get very little on the ground and the game should come down to McNabb's arm. The Vikings will walk away with a close victory. On the AFC side, both wild card games will be rematches of games played during the regular season. The Indianapolis Colts went into San Diego and pulled out a win with a late field goal. The Colts are on a roll right now and it's hard to see the momentum stopping, but the Chargers are finally playing their best football right now as well. The reason I am taking the Colts? Peyton Manning. The Baltimore Ravens defense overwhelmed the Miami Dolphins in the first meeting and I see the same thing happening again. You can't beat Baltimore with trick-plays and wildcat formations. The key factor for the Dolphins is trying to make Joe Flacco look like a rookie in his playoff debut. If they can force some turnovers, this game could go the other way.

In the divisional round, I would expect the New York/New Jersey Giants to run all around and over the Atlanta Falcons and coast to a victory and it would set up a week 16 rematch because the Carolina Panthers would be too much at home for the Vikings. Two more rematches would happen on the AFC side as the Tennessee Titans would get just enough offense to take out the Ravens. With a banged up Ben Roethlisberger, I can't see the Pittsburgh Steelers getting enough out of the offense to get past the Colts.

What happened in week 16 in the Meadowlands? The G-Men pounded the ball right at the Panthers and I think they would do it again...without needing overtime this time around. In the AFC, the hottest team would face off against division rivals and the team with the best record in football. Once again, Peyton Manning will lead the Colts to a victory over Tennesee and set-up the all-Manning Super Bowl!

Peyton vs. Eli. Where would Archie's alliances be? How many Super Bowl commercials would have these two in them? How giddy would the country be? How could the ratings be better? And lastly, how could big brother lose to little brother? I don't think he could...I just don't see it happening. Not this year. Not without Cheddar Plex. Maybe next year Eli, but Peyton just has something to prove once more. Colts will come out on top of the Giants, with a final score of 33-24.

Bowl Games pt. 2

Well, after starting off 4-0, the last three games have not been kind. Troy's coaches had some dumb play calling that led them to getting beat in OT and TCU's defense outshined Boise State's offense. Let's see what the next few days bring us!

Meineke Car Care Bowl
December 27, 1:00 PM EST, ESPN
West Virginia (8-4) vs. North Carolina (8-4)

What you should know: West Virginia's quarterback Pat White. He is the all-time leader in rushing yards from the quarterback position. You should also know about the Tar Heels' coach Butch Davis who is starting to rebuild this football team.

What you need to know: Despite the record, West Virginia is still a very dangerous team. The backfield combination of Pat White and Noel Devine is one of the best QB/RB tandems in the country. North Carolina has flip-flopped their two quarterbacks this year in Cam Sexton and TJ Yates. Since stud receiver Brandon Tate has been out, the Tar Heels are just 3-3

What you might not know: Under Pat White, West Virginia is 3-0 in bowl games. Two victories have come in BCS games against powerhouses in Georgia and Oklahoma. North Carolina hasn't been to a bowl game since 2004 and hasn't won a bowl game since 2001.

What you will know after the game: Pat White will not let his team lose. He has a chance to lead them to a 4-0 career mark in bowl games and also end up with 1,000+ rushing yards each of his four years. West Virginia should end up on top of this one with a 27-17 victory.

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Champs Sports Bowl
December 27, 4:30 PM EST, ESPN
Florida State (8-4) vs. Wisconsin (7-5)

What you should know: Bobby Bowden and his 300+ wins with 20 of those coming in bowl games. You should also know that Wisconsin might be the most dissapointing team in the country after many picked them to compete for a Big 10 title.

What you need to know: Despite Florida State's record, their defense is still top notch. Led by Myron Rolle (the Rhodes Scholar recipient), the Seminoles rely on them to make big plays and keep the team in games. The offense can be very hard to watch at times. Wisconsin didn't meet expectations this year and they will go into this game trying to build on something for 2009. They have a very strong running game led by PJ Hill, but the pass offense is inconsistent.

What you might not know: Antone Smith, the running back for Florida State ended up with less than 800 yards but still managed to find the end zone 15 times. Smith is a dangerous playmaker and break one at any time.

What you will know after the game: Wisconsin will find it very hard to do anything on offense. Florida State has the 14th ranked defense in the nation and they will show why in this game. I expect a defensive or special teams touchdown from the Seminoles as they win this one 30-16.

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Emerald Bowl
December 27, 8:00 PM EST, ESPN
Miami (FL) (7-5) vs. California (8-4)

What you should know: This game features two programs that are trying to reach bigger goals. Miami has started to rebound under Randy Shannon and Cal is led by coach Jeff Tedford who is trying to compete to stay with USC. This is going to be a fun game to watch!

What you need to know: Both offense have revolved the door at the quarterback position. Miami is starting Jacory Harris for the game, because Robert Marve has been suspended. Cal's Nate Longeshore is back under center, but Kevin Riley should be on the sideline ready to go as well. Cal can easily put up points and it might be difficult for Miami to stay with them if it turns into a shootout.

What you might not know: The running back for Cal...his name is Jahvid Best. He is probably a contender for the Heisman Trophy next year and this game could go a long ways into getting him some national recognition.

What you will know after the game: Miami just doesn't have enough playmakers yet. With the Best at running back and a big receiving threat in Nyan Boateng, Cal should run away with this game and come out with a 31-20 victory.

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Independence Bowl
December 28, 8:15 PM EST, ESPN
Northern Illinios (6-6) vs. Louisiana Tech (7-5)

What you should know: Not much of anything. Northern Illinois almost stole a victory against Tennessee and Louisiana Tech has won four the past five games. However, you should note that the Atlanta Falcons running back, Michael Turner, is a product from NIU!

What you need to know: This is a pick 'em game. Neither team is going to excite you much and you might not ever hear of any of there players again. On the other side, games like this sometimes turn out to be really good games with an exciting finish.

What you might not know: This is the fifth bowl game in the history of Louisiana Tech with the last one coming in 2001. For Northern Illinois, it is their fourth game overall and third since 2004.

What you will know after the game: Tech is the hotter team coming into the game, so I say they pull out a close 27-24 victory.

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PapaJohns.com Bowl
December 29, 3:00 PM EST, ESPN
Rutgers (7-5) vs. North Carolina State (6-6)

What you should know: Despite the records, these are two of the hotter teams in the country. NC State won the last four games to become bowl eligible while Rutgers put together a six game winning streak.

What you need to know: Without bashing them too badly, NC State isn't the greatest of teams. They rank 89th in total offense and 82nd in total defense. Somehow, the managed to come together and get some big wins down the stretch. Rutgers, on the other hand, can put up points quickly. The last five games points scored: 63, 30, 49, 35, and 54.

What you might not know: The one thing that NC State's quarterback Russell Wilson does exceptionally well is hanging on to the football. He has only thrown one interception this season. On the other side, it will be last game for Mike Teel who has been the starter the past two plus years at Rutgers.

What you will know after the game: Rutgers should come out on top with a solid victory. I think NC State is overmatched in this game, and the scoreboard will show it with a 41-20 victory for the Scarlet Knights.

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Valero Energy Alamo Bowl
December 29, 8:00 PM EST, ESPN
Northwestern (9-3) vs. Missouri (9-4)

What you should know: Anything and everything about Missouri's quarterback Chase Daniel and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin. This will be the last game for Daniel and probably Maclin as well.

What you need to know: Missouri boasts the number sixth ranked offense in college football with the fourth best passing attack. However, they also have the worst pass defense in college football. Northwestern will try to move the ball with running back Tyrell Sutton and the arm of C.J. Bacher. It will be very tough to keep up with the Tigers offense.

What you might not know: Just how bad Missouri is on defense. Since shutting out Colorado, the past five games, Mizzou has allowed a whopping 34.8 points per game. Will Northwestern have the firepower to keep up or not?

What you will know after the game: Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin will go out as winners. Mizzou will prove to be too explosive for Northwestern and Daniel will not let his team lose this game. Missouri in a blowout, 48-24.

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That's all for this time, let's see how the weekend unfolds!

NFL MVP?

With one week left in the NFL, who is your choice for MVP? Let's take a look at the pretenders, longshots, and real contenders to see who is the most deserving!

PRETENDERS

Joey Porter (LB, Miami Dolphins)
Why he should: Joey has 17.5 sacks on the season and has led the Dolphins defense on a mission this year. While Porter may not be one of the 'good guys' in the league, his numbers and attitude about football are what you want out of every single player. He may talk trash, but he certainly backs it up!

Why he won't: The Dolphins offense deserves credit for turning the team around as well. Where would this team be without Chad Pennington and Ronnie Brown? Also, it is next to impossible to win this award as a defensive player.

James Harrison & Troy Polamalu (LB & SS, Pittsburgh Steelers)
Why they should: These two have led the number one defense all year long. Harrison now has 16 sacks to go along with 7 forced fumbles, while Polamalu continues to make big plays as evidenced by his 7 interceptions.

Why they won't: Hard to determine which one is more valuable of the two and once again, being on defense does not help the matter.

Kurt Warner (QB, Arizona Cardinals)
Why he should: Warner has led the Cardinals to a division title for the first time since 1975. With his strong numbers and a starting spot on the NFC Pro-Bowl roster, Warner could make a great case.

Why he won't: However, the Cardinals play in the weakest division in football and they really haven't beat any strong teams this year. Some of the credit also has to go to Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald.


LONGSHOTS

Matt Cassell (QB, New England Patriots)
Why he should: The Patriots were done. Finished. Over with. At least that is what everyone said when Tom Brady limped off the field in week one of the regular season. Cassell has put up some monster numbers and the Patriots still have hope of winning the division.

Why he won't: While Cassell has put great numbers, he has struggled in big games. Everyone still seems to count the Patriots as out of the playoffs and people who don't, give the credit to Belichick.

Chris Johnson (RB, Tennessee Titans)
Why he should: Johnson has led one of the best rushing attacks in football. He is the AFC Rookie of the Year without a question and his speed and big play abilities make opposing defenses have to game-plan around him.

Why he won't: You also have to give credit to LenDale White and the defense of the Titans. Kerry Collins as well. The Titans have an all-around great team with many very, very good players.

Ronnie Brown & Chad Pennington (RB & QB, Miami Dolphins)
Why they should: As mentioned earlier, the Dolphins offense has finally been stabilized with Pennigton under center and Ronnie Brown in the backfield. Both have helped the Dolphins turn around from their 1-15 season last year.

Why they won't: While both make big plays, they don't have the big numbers, which is what many voters look at. They would probably also steal votes from each other.

Philip Rivers (QB, San Diego Chargers)
Why he should: LaDainian Tomlinson has looked as if he aged 10 years. Shawne Merriman was lost for the season. The defense has been a mess. But, somehow, someway, the Chargers have hope for the playoffs. It is mostly because of the arm of Philip Rivers. Rivers was the biggest Pro Bowl snub and has the numbers to win this award. He could be the sole reason the Chargers even have a chance at making the playoffs.

Why he won't: Even if the Chargers make it in the playoffs, the record will be only 8-8. Hard to give the MVP to a player that is on a team with that kind of record.

CONTENDERS

DeAngelo Williams (RB, Carolina Panthers)
Why he should: 18 Touchdowns and over 1300 rushing yards while splitting carries with teammate Jonathan Stewart. Williams has finally been given the chance to get touches and he has shown what his abilities can do. The Panthers are in the playoffs and still fighting for a first round bye.

Why he won't: Williams was probably too inconsistent early in the year. In the last four weeks, he has scored 11 of his 18 touchdowns. Stewart and Steve Smith have also helped out this offense.

Michael Turner (RB, Atlanta Falcons)
Why he should: You think San Diego misses this guy with the problems LT has had? Turner has been strong all year and is second in the NFC in rushing yards. He has helped turn the Falcons from laughable into a playoff team. Atlanta made a very smart move in bringing him over and having him prove he definitely is a featured NFL back.

Why he won't: Matt Ryan also deserves credit for the Falcons resurgence. With stability at both positions, the Falcons look like a force for the future.

Adrian Peterson (RB, Minnesota Vikings)
Why he should: When Gus Frerotte and Tavaris Jackson are your starting quarterbacks and you still have a chance to win the division, something must be going on. That something is Adrian Peterson. Peterson has been dominant all year, leading the NFL in rushing yards even with 8 guys in the box on almost every play. There is only one problem keeping him from getting this award.

Why he won't: FUMBLE! Peterson still coughs up the ball too many times. 8 Fumbles this year (4 lost). Ouch. Also, add the fact that the Vikings haven't clinched a playoff spot just yet and Peterson doesn't have the best case.

Peyton Manning (QB, Indianapolis Colts)
Why he should: Done. Over. Washed Up. Good career, Peyton. At least that is what everyone thought after the Colts 3-4 start to open the season. Since then? Only eight straight wins 16 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Nobody wants to face the Colts right now. NOBODY. The Colts are probably the most dangerous team going into the playoffs and the number one reason is Manning.

Why he won't: Because the Colts won't win their division? I don't know. That is the only excuse I have. If it wasn't for Manning, this team would be nothing. He deserves the MVP this year.

Let's Go Bowling!

Tomorrow is Bowl Season once again (who said playoffs?) and this will get you up to speed with what you need to know for the first round of games from small conferences and mediocre schools in power conferences (Michigan need not apply) with something to look forward to next year.

Eagle Bank Bowl
December 20, 11:00 AM EST, ESPN
Navy (8-4) vs. Wake Forest (7-5)

What you should know: Navy knocked off Wake Forest earlier in the year with a 24-17 win in Winston-Salem.

What you need to know: Seeing a triple option for the second time in one season should make it a whole lot easier for the Demon Deacons defense. Navy is ranked #1 out of all 119 teams in rushing yards, while they rank dead last in passing yards.

What you might not know: This is the first game of the Eagle Bank Bowl.

What you will know after the game: That Wake Forest should be able to stop the rushing attack this time around and end up with a 27-20 victory.

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New Mexico Bowl
December 20, 2:30 PM EST, ESPN
Fresno State (7-5) vs. Colorado State (6-6)

What you should know: After losing to Wisconsin early in the season, Fresno State hasn't been able to rebound from big expectations. Colorado State has played in some tough match-ups taking BYU and TCU to the end of their respective games.

What you need to know: Fresno State is 2-10 ATS this year and has lost the last two games played against Colorado State (most recently in 2006).

What you might not know: This is the first New Mexico Bowl game that New Mexico hasn't played in.

What you will know after the game: That Colorado State is happy to be here while Fresno State is still licking their wounds from a 61-10 pounding from Boise State. The Rams will take down the Bulldogs with a score of 31-20.

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magicJack St. Petersburg Bowl
December 20, 4:30 PM EST, ESPN 2
South Florida (7-5) vs. Memphis (6-6)

What you should know: South Florida boasts one of the best national pass rushers in George Selvie. He should be a future first round draft pick. Memphis may boast a perennial powerhouse in basketball, but since 2003 the Tigers have been to a bowl game every year.

What you need to know: It is basically a home game for the Bulls of South Florida as Tropicana Field is just about 20-30 minutes away from campus. If they show up to play and seem interested in the game then it will be a blowout.

What you might not know: magicJack is a product that you plug into your computer that allows you to make local and long distance calls.

What you will know after the game: South Florida was one of the favorites for the Big East and if should roll. However, they have not met expectations all year and this is a game that Memphis can win. I still see a 31-27 victory for the Bulls, but an upset wouldn't shock me.

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Pioneer Las Vegas Bowl
December 20, 8:00 PM EST, ESPN
BYU (10-2) vs. Arizona (7-5)

What you should know: This game features two teams that like to put up points. Both average more than 35 points per game and both offenses have struggled against good defensive teams.

What you need to know: If it wasn't for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in BYU's second game against Washington, both teams might have had much different seasons and who knows if the Cougars would still be here. Arizona's head coach Mike Stoops has been mentioned as a possible name for the Iowa State position. Is he focused on helping the Wildcats win this game?

What you might not know: These two teams have met in last two seasons with a split record. BYU won last year 20-7, while Arizona won in 2006 with a score of 16-13.

What you will know after the game: If you really want to make a solid play, take the under evidenced by those two scores from previous winners. I think Arizona should come out on top with a 30-24 victory.

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R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
December 21, 8:15 PM EST, ESPN
Troy (8-4) vs. Southern Mississippi (6-6)

What you should know: In all honesty, you probably shouldn't know much about either team. You might remember Troy had a 31-3 lead in the third quarter earlier this year only to lose 40-31. After 14 consecutive winning seasons, head coach Jeff Bower was forced to resign before the season for the Golden Eagles.

What you need to know: Both teams are coming into this game very hot. Southern Miss has a four game winning streak and despite the loss to LSU, Troy has won six of its last eight games.

What you might not know: Troy has only been in Division 1 football since 2001 and joined the Sun Belt conference in 2004. This is the third bowl game that they will compete in.

What you will know after the game: Troy has a slight edge in this one and it should be a close game with a late kick to pull out a 30-27 victory.

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San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
December 23, 8:00 PM EST, ESPN
Texas Christian (10-2) vs. Boise State (12-0)

What you should know: This will be the non-BCS conference game to watch. Boise State has a powerful offense that still boasts America's favorite hero, Ian Johnson! Remember him? TCU has a very tough defense and it will be a classic game to determine who has the better unit!


What you need to know: The hidden numbers. We all know that Boise State has a great offense and the same applies for TCU's defense. However, Boise State also only gives up 12.2 ppg (TCU 10.9) and TCU scores 35 ppg (Boise State 39.4). This will be a great game.

What you might not know: Despite the success Boise State had in the BCS game two years ago in Oklahoma, they are a much different team. That year Ian Johnson rushed for over 1700 yards and 25 touchdowns. This year, he has only managed 679 yards and 12 touchdowns. Look for TCU to stop the pass first and try to see if that offensive line can hold up for Boise State.

What you will know after the game: Probably that you witnessed a great bowl game with Boise State pulling out a close 24-20 victory to close out an undefeated season.

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Sheraton Hawaiʻi Bowl
December 24, 8:00 PM EST, ESPN
Notre Dame(6-6) vs. Hawaii (7-6)

What you should know: That once again Notre Dame failed to live up to expectations. Charlie Weis' seat keeps getting hotter and losing this game to Hawaii certainly won't help. Hawaii has had a decent year going through the loss of QB Colt Brennan and coach June Jones.

What you need to know: Notre Dame is one of the most inconsistent teams in the nation and the record shows that. Also, the fact that they are on the islands will give them ample time to forget about football and worry about their tan. Hawaii has played in some tough games this year and should come out and be ready to play.

What you might not know: Hawaii is playing in this game for sixth time. The only game they missed was last year when they were in the BCS Sugar Bowl against Georgia.

What you will know after the game: Most likely that Notre Dame will be exposed again as a fraud and that the players sat around on the beach all week. I expect Hawaii to win this game easily 31-17.

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Motor City Bowl
December 26, 7:30 PM EST, ESPN 2
Florida Atlantic(6-6) vs. Central Michigan (8-4)

What you should know: Again, not much of anything. Although, Central Michigan came up just short in an upset bid against Ball State that could have won a chance to play in the MAC Championship game. You also might know the coach of Florida Atlantic, Howard Schnellenberger, who brought back programs at Miami and Louisville.

What you need to know: Both teams are really average. They give up lots of points and also know how to put points on the board. This game could be a shoot-out and whoever has the ball last could win.

What you might not know: If Central Michigan can win this game, it will be the first victory for a team from the state of Michigan in Ford Field since 2007. Ooops...sorry, Lions fans.

What you will know after the game: That this might not have been the prettiest of collegiate teams to watch, but if you did, you would have seen some big plays in a Central Michigan 45-35 victory.

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That's it for this week, tune in later to see more Bowl coverage!

Iowa State football's next head coach

There have been many names mentioned for the next Iowa State head coach. Pat Hill. Gary Patterson. Tommy Tuberville. Turner Gill. Phil Fulmer. The list goes on and on and on.

First of all, cross Gill off of that list. He just signed an extension at Buffalo. Also take off Tuberville and Fulmer, they are not going to waste away in the Big 12 North and try to rebuild a program. Enough said.

Next on the list is Hill and Patterson. Why would Pat Hill want to come to Iowa State? Or Gary Patterson? Pat Hill is a west coast guy and already turned down Arizona, Colorado, and Minnesota with Washington being the most recent. I am no historian, but I know Washington has a better football resume (a championship within the last 20 years + BCS games) than Iowa State. As for Patterson, he has turned down Nebraska, Minnesota, Michigan, Arkansas, Mississippi and most recently Kansas State (and he is an alum there)!

IF and when these two guys leave their programs, they are going to go somewhere where they can win national championships, not somewhere they can go and try to rebuild.

Now, I have a name for you, Iowa State fans: MIKE STOOPS.

Yes, I know he is a former Hawkeye, but this would be his way to get back into the midwest. He was an assistant at Kansas State and Oklahoma before taking the Arizona job. He has midwest ties. His brother coaches at Oklahoma. This makes TOO MUCH SENSE! It should happen and Cyclone fans should WANT it to happen and you could stick it to Iowa fans!!

There you have it. That's my guess...MIKE STOOPS.

Sammy Baugh and Thursday picks

Sammy Baugh, former quarterback of the Washington Redskins, died last night at the age of 94. Baugh was inducted into the very first National Football League's Hall of Fame Class in 1963 and was the last living member of those inductees. Baugh was a nine-time All-Pro player and was on the NFL's 75th Anniversary team in 1994 and was recently voted as being the fifth best quarterback in college football history by ESPN.



How about some Thursday picks? Let's start in the NBA, with only two games on tonight. Orlando is a favorite by 2.5 over San Antonio. I would roll with the Magic coming off a couple days rest and Dwight Howard should play as well. If he isn't playing, STAY AWAY!! In college action, Western Kentucky/South Alabama meet up and if you can get the under at 141, then take it. The under has matched up the last four times these teams have played. If you want a little riskier pick, take the MONEY LINE on North Texas on the road against LA-Lafayette. Tune in tomorrow to see the first bowl game previews and my picks for every college bowl game!

NFL Pro Bowl Snubs

The National Football League announced who would be going to the Pro Bowl game this year and here are the complete rosters for the AFC and NFC or you can visit NFL.com and find the complete rosters HERE! Well, let's see who got snubbed with a 5 star snubbed being the worst and a 1 star snubbed the least.



Let's start with the NFC side of things. Hard to argue with any of the quarterback selections, but if Romo hadn't missed games to injuries, he would probably be in instead of Manning. The running backs in the NFC were DEEP this year. All three selections were great with Peterson, Portis, and Michael Turner. DeAngelo Williams just picked the wrong year and wrong conference as did Matt Forte. 1 STAR SNUB for those two players.

At receiver, the biggest complaint is probably from Calvin Johnson who has over 1,100 yards and 10 TD's. However, who are you going to take off of that list? Fitz and Boldin? No. Roddy White? Don't think so. Steve Smith? Not a chance. Calvin, sorry your team is so terrible because you are having a great year. 2 STAR SNUB for you! Greg Jennings also receives a 1 STAR SNUB, but, like Calvin, few wins make a hard case. Chris Cooley and Jason Witten were easily the two best at tight end this year in the NFC...but with Romo not going to the Pro Bowl, who will Witten draw plays with in the sand?

It's difficult to say who the best lineman are because you don't get to see all of them play every week. The only thing I can say about the NFC is that I remember Walter Jones getting BURNED by DeMarcus Ware on Thanksgiving...

On the defensive side, Trent Cole would have the biggest argument from any of the end spots. But the three guys in front of him (Tuck, Allen, and Peppers) are having monster seasons. Still, Cole would be a 2 STAR SNUB, since he leads all linemen in tackles and has 8.5 sacks. John Abraham deserves a 1 STAR SNUB because of his stats...but if you have seen him play, you will know why his numbers are inflated. All three defensive tackles were great selections.

The inside linebackers were no brainers. Both Willis and Beason are having monster years. DeMarcus Ware is leading the NFL in sacks, so that is an obvious choice. Briggs is having an okay year and Derrick Brooks got in on reputation rather than stats. Chad Greenway should have had one of those spots and is a 5 STAR SNUB. Karlos Dansby is also having a very strong year and deserves to be in with a 4 STAR SNUB.

Antoine Winfield finally got his respect being elected a starter and Asante Samuel is also having a great year. I am neutral on Charles Woodson because of the fact the Packers give up so many big plays because the gamble too much (which inflates his states). Speaking of Gamble, Chris should be there instead and is a 4 STAR SNUB. Nothing wrong with any of the safeties, all are having great years.

I would probably take Donnie Jones over Jeff Feagles as a punter, making him a 4 STAR SNUB and with the year he has had off the field, I think Matt Bryant should have been on the roster as well (take away his 50 yard+ FGA), and I am making him a 5 STAR SNUB. When you return a punt and kickoff for a touchdown (especially for the Bucs), you definately get a spot like Clifton Smith did. Will Blackmon has had some great returns and deserves a 2 STAR SNUB.


On the AFC, we find a snub on the first position. There is absolutely no way that Brett Favre should be in the Pro Bowl this year. Unless you like quarterbacks who lead in the league in interceptions! Okay, if you say it is because of the way he turned his team around then you can make an argument...only if you argue for CHAD PENNINGTON before that! Philip Rivers easily should be in the Pro Bowl. He is leading the league rating and is tied with Brees for touchdown passes. 5 STAR SNUB! The running back selections were good choices. Thomas Jones leads the conference in rushing yards, Chris Johnson has helped the Titans get back on top and Ronnie Brown with the wildcat formation for the Dolphins. Steve Slaton has a legit argurment, but playing on the Texans doesn't help much, so he gets a 2 STAR SNUB!

Wes Welker and Andre Johnson both have over 100 catches on the season and were obvious choices along with Brandon Marshall. Reggie Wayne is not having the type of season we are used to seeing, but who else could you take? TJ Houshmanzadeh could have a case if he didn't play for the BUNGLES, so he gets a 1 STAR SNUB. Tony Gonzalez has by far the best season for a tight end this year in either conference. However, Antonio Gates is nowhere near his production from recent years. Dallas Clark probably should go before Gates, but the stats are very similar, leaving Clark with a 3 STAR SNUB!

As I said with the NFC, it is difficult for me to tell...from what I hear Peters and Thomas both are not having the years they did last year...but who would rather have instead?

The AFC defensive line has probably has a couple of the biggest snubs on it. Dwight Freeney doesn't deserve to be on the team this year. If all you do is rush the passer, then you should have more than 8.5 sacks. I know it is so hard to be recognized in a 3-4 defense, but take away Aaron Smith from the Steelers and they are not the same team. He is a 4 STAR SNUB without a question...Shaun Ellis also deserved a spot and he is strong 3 STAR SNUB. Haloti Ngata is listed as an end, and he definately deserves to be in as an end or a tackle as well. The same applies with him as Aaron Smith and he is another 5 STAR SNUB! Kris Jenkins has really helped out the Jets defense, but I don't know if it is strong enough to consider him a Pro Bowler, considering he is not like Rogers or Haynesworth.

Ray Lewis may have lost a step, but still warrants a spot on the Pro Bowl as does James Farrior. D'Qwell Jackson might be in if Cleveland was better and deserves a 3 STAR SNUB. LaMarr Woodley is a 5 STAR SNUB with the numbers he has put up. At the same time, it is hard to take Suggs off the roster because he is having a great year as well. Calvin Pace probably deserves a 2 STAR SNUB as well. But, there is no way you can take off James Harrison or Joey Porter.

Nnamdi Asomugha might not have the stats, but it is because nobody throws at him. Cortland Finnegan is also having a wonderful season. Darrelle Revis probably deserves an invite as well, but Brandon McDonald is having a great year and is a 4 STAR SNUB. Ike Taylor shuts down the opposing teams top player week to week and if had better hands, would be a Pro Bowl player. Still, Ike is a 2 STAR SNUB. Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu in the same secondary. That would be scary to face in real game! Chris Hope is also having a great year and Gibril Wilson could be higher than a 3 STAR SNUB if he didn't play for the Raiders. We also should mention Bernard Pollard and give him a 1 STAR SNUB for saving football this year. Thanks Bernard!

Shane Lechler is the best punter in the league and Gostkowski is having a great year. I think Bironas means more to the Titans than he does to the Patriots and I consider him a 4 STAR SNUB. Leon Washington is having a monster year returning kicks and deservs his spot. Leodis McKelvin has been explosive and at least deserves a 1 STAR SNUB.


With all of this being said, it doesn't matter that much anyways. 20-30% of these guys won't even play in this game and it is a glorified game of touch football. The biggest story to come from this is that Albert Haynesworth is now a free agent because of a clause in his contract. See you in Hawaii!

BCS or Playoffs?

So, if you haven't heard lately, there is a couple of big games coming up shortly for football. Actually, in two weeks there will be twelve teams fighting for one ultimate goal. To win a championship. A Super Bowl if you will. And do you know how they settle is better? A PLAYOFF! What a system?!?! Who would ever thought something so simple would work? I mean if the NFL used a similar format as the NCAA does, who would be in the championship game? It couldn't be the Giants, they have lost two in a row? What about the Titans? They just lost to the Texans! Steelers have losses to the Giants, Colts, and Eagles (who TIED with the Bungles). Cowboys have lost to the Steelers and Redskins, among others. Actually the rankings would probably favor the Patriots since they just put up 49 points against the Raiders. I got it. Saints and Broncos...both teams can score points and that's what the computers like and nothing else would make sense anyways. There you go, Saints & Broncos in the BCS Super Bowl!

So, Oklahoma is playing Florida in some sort of big game and whoever wins is going to be names the 'champion'. Don't mind that Texas, USC, and even Alabama, Texas Tech, and Penn State could all make a case to be in this same game...and what about Utah and Boise State? Plain and simple, there needs to be a playoff in college football. Why wait? Just change it now! Look, student-athletes (especially high profile players at the D1 level for football) are mostly a joke. Florida graduates 36% of their football players and Texas is just better at 40%. Seriously? Can't these guys take Sociology class (Duke basketball players are nodding their heads) or general studies or something else simple? Do players actually study, get time off etc.? Why don't you ask Dan Hawkins, coach of the Colorado Buffaloes?




Implement a college football playoff. Start the season one week earlier, play the first round after conference championship week and still give the players two weeks off for there, ah hem, "FINALS". Then pick it up with the last 8 teams to decide on the field who is the REAL champion. But, A-Ro, how do we decide who is playoff worthy? I have the answer my friends:


College Football Playoffs Selection Procedures

PART I: Qualification for Playoffs:

1. The champions of the Atlantic Coast, Big East, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-10 and Southeastern conferences will have automatic berths into one of the playoff seeds.

2. The champion of Conference USA, the Mid-American Conference, the Mountain West Conference, the Sun Belt Conference or the Western Athletic Conference will earn an automatic berth in the playoffs if either:

• Such team is ranked in the top 10 of the final NCAA Playoff Standings, or,
  
• Such team is ranked in the top 14 of the final NCAA Playoff Standings and its ranking in the final NCAA Playoff Standings is higher than that of a champion of a conference that has an annual automatic berth in a playoff spot.

3. Notre Dame will have an automatic berth if it is in the top 10 of the final NCAA Playoff Standings.

4. Whatever slots remain open after application of provisions 1 through 3, then at-large teams will be selected to complete the 12 different playoff slots.

5. An at-large team is any NCAA Division One team that meets the following requirements.

• Has won at least nine regular-season games with three losses or fewer, and
  
• Is among the top 16 teams in the NCAA Playoff Standings.
  
• No more than three teams from a conference can be selected, unless team number four has three or less losses with only two of those losses coming from within the conference play.

If fewer than 12 teams are eligible for selection, then any team can be selected as an at-large team that has won at least nine regular-season games and is among the top 20 teams in the NCAA Playoff Standings subject to the three-team limit noted above and also subject to the following: (1) if any conference has three or more teams in the top 16, then two of those teams must be selected and (2) from the teams ranked 17-20, the playoff can select only a team from a conference that has fewer than two teams in the top 16.

If expansion of the pool to 20 teams does not result in 12 teams eligible for selection, then the pool shall be expanded by blocks of 4 teams until 12 eligible teams are available subject to the three-team limit noted above and also subject to the following: (1) if any conference has two or more teams in the top 16, then two of those teams must be selected and (2) from the teams ranked 17 or lower, the playoff can select only a team from a conference that has fewer than two teams in the top 16.

Relative to the two preceding paragraphs, all teams ranked in the top 16, other than those from conferences which have already had two teams selected, must be included in the playoff selection.

Note: in order to participate in a NCAA Playoff game, a team (a.) must be eligible for post-season play under the rules of the NCAA and, if it not an independent, under the rules of its conference and (b.) must not have imposed sanctions upon itself prohibiting participation in a post-season game for infractions of the rules of the NCAA or the rules of its conference.


PART II: Team-Selection Procedures:

The playoffs will select their participants from two pools: (1) automatic qualifiers, all of which must be selected, and, (2) at-large teams. The following sequence will be used when establishing pairings:

1. The rankings of the team will be determined by the NCAA Playoff Standings.
   
   
2. The top four seeds in the final NCAA Playoff Standings will be automatically given a first round bye.
   
   
3. Seeds five through eight will face seeds nine through twelve in the first round games with the lowest seed facing the highest seed and so on.

PART III: Tie-Breaking Procedures:

The following steps will be used to resolve any ties in the standings or selection procedures after the computation is carried out to full decimal points:

1. Look to head-to-head result;
   
2. If the tie is not resolved by No. 1, then won-lost-tied percentage in common games, minimum of two.
   
3. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-2, then strength of victory.
   
4. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-3, then strength of non-conference schedule.
   
5. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-4, then strength of overall schedule.
   
6. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-5, then best combined ranking among all teams in points scored and points allowed.
   
7. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-6, then best net points in all games.
   
8. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-7, then best net touchdowns in all games.
   
9. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-8, then final standings from previous year.
   
10. If the tie is not resolved by Nos. 1-9, then coin toss.

PART IV: NCAA Playoff Standings:

The Harris Interactive Poll, USA Today Poll, and AP Poll each combine to make up first three parts of the Playoff Standings. Each team will have a ranking from each poll from starting from 1 and going through all teams that receive votes.

· To provide the initial pool of potential panelists for the Harris Poll before the 2005 regular season, each Conference submitted the names of 30 qualified individuals; Harris Interactive randomly selected 10 panelists from among the names submitted by each Conference.

· Notre Dame submitted a list of six qualified individuals, from which Harris randomly selected three. Army and Navy together submitted a list of three qualified individuals from which Harris selected one.

· When a person leaves the panel, the conference that originally nominated the individual nominates three others to take the spot, one of whom is randomly selected.

· The first Harris poll is released on the last Sunday in September each season.

The computer rankings will make up the fourth part of the Playoff Standings. Each team will receive a number for each spot ranked in the polls and that number will be divided by four to get the total ranking.

The six computer ranking providers are Anderson & Hester, Richard Billingsley, Colley Matrix, Kenneth Massey, Jeff Sagarin and Peter Wolfe. Each computer ranking provider accounts for schedule strength within its formula.

The NCAA Playoff Standings are used for:

• Determining the rankings of the top twelve teams that would qualify to play in the NCAA playoffs schedule.
  
• Determining the top four teams to get first round byes in the playoffs.
  
• Determining any other automatic qualifiers; and,
  Establishing the pool of eligible teams for at-large selection.

The NCAA Playoff Standings will be released eight times each season, including the final Standings on selection Sunday. The National Football Foundation compiles and releases the Standings each week.

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Well, if you don't like a Playoff or any kind of system involving the playoffs...then just follow Jim Mora's lead and don't talk about it.