4:00
Fiesta Bowl
#20 Boise State vs. #10 Arizona
The Broncos have not proven to me that they can hang with the big boys, while Arizona has nice wins over Oregon and Arizona State. The Wildcats will simply be too talented for Boise State to handle.
Winner: Arizona
Orange Bowl
8:00
#7 Mississippi State vs. #12 Georgia Tech
This match up is very compelling to me, as MSU has a solid defense, which will go up against Tech and the Triple Option attack. The Bulldogs were at 1 point ranked #1 in the land, but I don't think they have been impressive since their 38-20 win over Auburn. I think the Tech's attack will confuse the Bulldog defense, just as it did to Georiga and Florida State. It will be a dissapointing end to former Heisman hopeful Dak Prescott, as Justin Thomas and the Jackets will be too much.
Winner: GT
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Sunday, December 28, 2014
NFL Week 17: Predictions for Key Matchups
Panthers(6-8-1) at Falcons(6-9)
The NFC South is on the line in this one. I think the Panthers will pick apart the Falcons awful secondary, and Cam Newton will have a field day. I also think the Panthers defense is strong enough to limit Matt Ryan and the potent Falcons offense
Winner: Panthers
Lions (11-4) at Packers(11-4)
This is a hard one to predict. The NFC North is on the line. The Packers are averaging over 40 points per game at home this season, and "The Frozen Tundra" has always been a great home field advantage for the Cheeseheads. That will be the key to a Green Bay win.
Winner: Packers
8:30
Bengals(10-5) at Steelers(10-5)
The Steelers have been very good in big games this season. The key here will be We've on Bell going up against the Bengals week run defense. As I said when I predicted the first match up between these 2, Bell will have a big game and lead the Steelers to victory, and the AFC North title.
Winner: Steelers
The NFC South is on the line in this one. I think the Panthers will pick apart the Falcons awful secondary, and Cam Newton will have a field day. I also think the Panthers defense is strong enough to limit Matt Ryan and the potent Falcons offense
Winner: Panthers
Lions (11-4) at Packers(11-4)
This is a hard one to predict. The NFC North is on the line. The Packers are averaging over 40 points per game at home this season, and "The Frozen Tundra" has always been a great home field advantage for the Cheeseheads. That will be the key to a Green Bay win.
Winner: Packers
8:30
Bengals(10-5) at Steelers(10-5)
The Steelers have been very good in big games this season. The key here will be We've on Bell going up against the Bengals week run defense. As I said when I predicted the first match up between these 2, Bell will have a big game and lead the Steelers to victory, and the AFC North title.
Winner: Steelers
Saturday, December 20, 2014
NFL Week 16 Preview
1:00
Browns(7-7) at Panthers(5-8-1)
This game is meaningful only for 1 of the teams involved, as Carolina is in the thick of the NFC South race. The Browns offense is completely struggling, and the Panthers D has been playing very well the past 4 weeks, so I am taking the Cats in this one.
Winner: Carolina
Falcons(5-9) at Saints(6-8)
This is a very important game in the NFC South race. Both teams post high scoring offenses, so a lot of points will be scored in this one. Both teams post poor secondary's, but Atlanta ranks dead last in the league in pass defense, and since Drew Brees is a pretty good QB if you don't know by now, I'm taking the Saints.
Winner: Saints
Chiefs(8-6) at Steelers(9-5)
This is a big game as both teams are trying to get into the playoffs. The Chiefs are on the outside looking in at 8-6, while the Steelers are in line for a Wild-Card spot and in the hunt for a division title. The Chiefs run defense is 28th in the league, so I am predicting a big day from Le'veon Bell and a Steelers victory.
4:25
Winner: Steelers
Bills(8-6) at Raiders(2-12)
Raiders offense is awful, and the stout Buffalo defense will shut them down
Winner: Bills
Colts(10-4) at Cowboys(10-4)
This is a tough game to predict, but I think the key will be Andrew Luck going up against the week Cowboys secondary. Luck will have a big day and the Colts will pull it out.
Winner: Colts
Sunday Night
Seahawks(10-4) at Cardinals(11-3)
The Cards are down to Ryan Lindley as their QB. I do not trust him against the Legion of Boom, and the Hawks will win this one by 10.
Winner: Seahawks.
Browns(7-7) at Panthers(5-8-1)
This game is meaningful only for 1 of the teams involved, as Carolina is in the thick of the NFC South race. The Browns offense is completely struggling, and the Panthers D has been playing very well the past 4 weeks, so I am taking the Cats in this one.
Winner: Carolina
Falcons(5-9) at Saints(6-8)
This is a very important game in the NFC South race. Both teams post high scoring offenses, so a lot of points will be scored in this one. Both teams post poor secondary's, but Atlanta ranks dead last in the league in pass defense, and since Drew Brees is a pretty good QB if you don't know by now, I'm taking the Saints.
Winner: Saints
Chiefs(8-6) at Steelers(9-5)
This is a big game as both teams are trying to get into the playoffs. The Chiefs are on the outside looking in at 8-6, while the Steelers are in line for a Wild-Card spot and in the hunt for a division title. The Chiefs run defense is 28th in the league, so I am predicting a big day from Le'veon Bell and a Steelers victory.
4:25
Winner: Steelers
Bills(8-6) at Raiders(2-12)
Raiders offense is awful, and the stout Buffalo defense will shut them down
Winner: Bills
Colts(10-4) at Cowboys(10-4)
This is a tough game to predict, but I think the key will be Andrew Luck going up against the week Cowboys secondary. Luck will have a big day and the Colts will pull it out.
Winner: Colts
Sunday Night
Seahawks(10-4) at Cardinals(11-3)
The Cards are down to Ryan Lindley as their QB. I do not trust him against the Legion of Boom, and the Hawks will win this one by 10.
Winner: Seahawks.
Sunday, December 14, 2014
NFL Sunday/Monday Night Predictions
Sunday Night
Cowboys(9-4) at Eagles(9-4)
This is a battle for first place in the NFC East. The Eagles pounded the Cowboys in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day. I think the Eagles will be the victors again, simply because Tony Romo, although nearly a 10 year vet in the National Football League, has still not proven to be that he can win in the month of December. I also think LeSean Mccoy will have a huge game on the ground, and this is a nice recipient for an Eagles victory.
Winner: E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles
Monday Night
Saints(5-8) at Bears(5-8)
The Saints are still in the hunt for the NFC South. The Bears defense is awful, and Drew Brees will take advantage of this to lead the Saints to victory.
Winner: Saints
Cowboys(9-4) at Eagles(9-4)
This is a battle for first place in the NFC East. The Eagles pounded the Cowboys in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day. I think the Eagles will be the victors again, simply because Tony Romo, although nearly a 10 year vet in the National Football League, has still not proven to be that he can win in the month of December. I also think LeSean Mccoy will have a huge game on the ground, and this is a nice recipient for an Eagles victory.
Winner: E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles
Monday Night
Saints(5-8) at Bears(5-8)
The Saints are still in the hunt for the NFC South. The Bears defense is awful, and Drew Brees will take advantage of this to lead the Saints to victory.
Winner: Saints
Saturday, December 13, 2014
NFL Week 15 Predictions
1:00
Steelers(8-5) at Falcons(5-8)
The Steelers are coming off a big win at Cincy, while Atlanta is coming off of a Monday Night loss at Green Bay. The Steelers always seem to have a letdown the week following a big win, and I expect this week to be no different. The combination of Matt Ryan and Julio Jones will be too much for the Steelers underwhelming secondary to handle, and that will be the key to a Falcons victory.
Winner: Falcons
Dolphins(7-6) at Patriots(10-3)
New England is coming off a big Sunday Night win in San Diego, while Miami is coming off a loss. The Pats have on fire since losing in Kansas City in late September, and the Dolphins have not proven to me that they can win games that they are not supposed to win. New England is very, very hard to beat at home, so I think it is very unlikely that Miami pulls an upset.
Winner: New England
Texans (7-6) at Colts (9-4)
The Colts, who are coming off a last minute win in Cleveland, have a chance to win their second straight NFC South title. Houston is coming off a win over the Jags. Houston has one of the weakest secondary's in the league, and that will make Andrew Luck very happy as he will have a big day.
Winner: Colts
Packers(10-3) at Bills(7-6)
The Packers are coming off of a Monday Night win over Atlanta, while Buffalo is coming off of a loss to Denver. Aaron Rodgers is the best QB in the game, however I believe that Buffalos pass rush will give him some problems. Much like Miami, I don't think Buffalo has proven that they can beat teams that they are not supposed to beat. Rodgers and a red hot Green Bay team will be too much in this one.
Winner: Packers
Bengals(8-4-1) at Browns(7-6)
The Browns are coming off of a heart-breaking loss at home to the Colts, while the Bengals are coming off of a loss to Pittsburgh at home. I think the Browns will be fired up after losing a game that easily could have been a win, and they will feed off of the energy of the hometown fans to inspire them to victory.
Winner: Browns
Broncos(10-3) at Chargers(8-5)
The Broncos are coming off of a win at home over Buffalo, while San Diego is coming off a Sunday night to the Pats. I think that the Chargers secondary is one of the best Denver has faced, and that added to the Chargers tough luck loss last week, they will play inspired football at home and win this one, led by Phillip Rivers and Kennan Allen.
Winner: Chargers
49ers(7-6) at Seahawks(9-4)
The 9ers are struggling, and after that embarrassing loss to the Raiders, I just don't see their performance against the Hawks being much better then their one on Thanksgiving night, especially since the game is in Seattle.
Winner: Seattle
Predictions for Sunday and Monday night games will come sometime tomorrow. Also sorry for lack of pictures, I could not get any to load.
Steelers(8-5) at Falcons(5-8)
The Steelers are coming off a big win at Cincy, while Atlanta is coming off of a Monday Night loss at Green Bay. The Steelers always seem to have a letdown the week following a big win, and I expect this week to be no different. The combination of Matt Ryan and Julio Jones will be too much for the Steelers underwhelming secondary to handle, and that will be the key to a Falcons victory.
Winner: Falcons
Dolphins(7-6) at Patriots(10-3)
New England is coming off a big Sunday Night win in San Diego, while Miami is coming off a loss. The Pats have on fire since losing in Kansas City in late September, and the Dolphins have not proven to me that they can win games that they are not supposed to win. New England is very, very hard to beat at home, so I think it is very unlikely that Miami pulls an upset.
Winner: New England
Texans (7-6) at Colts (9-4)
The Colts, who are coming off a last minute win in Cleveland, have a chance to win their second straight NFC South title. Houston is coming off a win over the Jags. Houston has one of the weakest secondary's in the league, and that will make Andrew Luck very happy as he will have a big day.
Winner: Colts
Packers(10-3) at Bills(7-6)
The Packers are coming off of a Monday Night win over Atlanta, while Buffalo is coming off of a loss to Denver. Aaron Rodgers is the best QB in the game, however I believe that Buffalos pass rush will give him some problems. Much like Miami, I don't think Buffalo has proven that they can beat teams that they are not supposed to beat. Rodgers and a red hot Green Bay team will be too much in this one.
Winner: Packers
Bengals(8-4-1) at Browns(7-6)
The Browns are coming off of a heart-breaking loss at home to the Colts, while the Bengals are coming off of a loss to Pittsburgh at home. I think the Browns will be fired up after losing a game that easily could have been a win, and they will feed off of the energy of the hometown fans to inspire them to victory.
Winner: Browns
Broncos(10-3) at Chargers(8-5)
The Broncos are coming off of a win at home over Buffalo, while San Diego is coming off a Sunday night to the Pats. I think that the Chargers secondary is one of the best Denver has faced, and that added to the Chargers tough luck loss last week, they will play inspired football at home and win this one, led by Phillip Rivers and Kennan Allen.
Winner: Chargers
49ers(7-6) at Seahawks(9-4)
The 9ers are struggling, and after that embarrassing loss to the Raiders, I just don't see their performance against the Hawks being much better then their one on Thanksgiving night, especially since the game is in Seattle.
Winner: Seattle
Predictions for Sunday and Monday night games will come sometime tomorrow. Also sorry for lack of pictures, I could not get any to load.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
NFL Thanksgiving Day Predictions
12:30
Chicago(5-6) at Detriot (7-4)
Matt Stafford and the Lions will bounce back after 2 straight losses, and take advantage of the awful Bears defense to win this one.
Winner: Lions
4:30
Philidelphia (8-3) at Dallas( 8-3)
This will be a good one between 2 classic rivals. I am expecting a lot of points between these 2 high powered offenses. However, Tony Room and Dez Bryant will take advantage of the Eagles poor secondary and that will be the difference.
Winner: Cowboys
8:30
Seattale(7-4) at San Francisco (7-4)
A key matchup in the NFC West, this is a toss up. However, I am not so sure about the Seahwaks offense and their struggles away from Quest Field, so I'm going with the 49ers.
Winner: 49ers
Chicago(5-6) at Detriot (7-4)
Matt Stafford and the Lions will bounce back after 2 straight losses, and take advantage of the awful Bears defense to win this one.
Winner: Lions
4:30
Philidelphia (8-3) at Dallas( 8-3)
This will be a good one between 2 classic rivals. I am expecting a lot of points between these 2 high powered offenses. However, Tony Room and Dez Bryant will take advantage of the Eagles poor secondary and that will be the difference.
Winner: Cowboys
8:30
Seattale(7-4) at San Francisco (7-4)
A key matchup in the NFC West, this is a toss up. However, I am not so sure about the Seahwaks offense and their struggles away from Quest Field, so I'm going with the 49ers.
Winner: 49ers
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Prediction for WPIAL Championships
A
#2 Clairton vs. #4 Avonworth
Avonworth is coming off a huge upset of #1 North Catholic, but I think they will run out of steam and the Bears will be too overpowering in this one.
Winner: Avonworth
AA
#1 South Fayette vs. #2 Aliquippa
South Fayette defeated the Quips, 36-28 at Heinz Field last year. But I believe that the Quips defense is too strong this time, and will be too much for Brumbaugh and company this time.
Winner: Aliquippa
AAA
#1 Central Valley vs. #3 West Allegheny
The Warriors defeated the Indians, 28-17 when these 2 parkway teams met in the regular season. This game is really hard to predict, but I think the fact that Bob Palko is 7-0 at Heinz Field is a very telling stat. I also think Palko is good at making adjustments, and these adjustments will put West A over the top in this one, along with the running of senior Chayse Dillion and juniors Terrance Stephans and Whitney White .
Winner: West Allegheny
AAAA
#1 Pine Richland vs. #3 Central Catholic
Despite the fact that the Vikings lost to QB Ben DiNucci and the Rams, 48-28 when the played in the regular season, I believe that the Vikings are a way different team since then. It will be close, but I think Central's much improved defense will make life hard for DiNucci and company.
Winner: Central Catholic
#2 Clairton vs. #4 Avonworth
Avonworth is coming off a huge upset of #1 North Catholic, but I think they will run out of steam and the Bears will be too overpowering in this one.
Winner: Avonworth
AA
#1 South Fayette vs. #2 Aliquippa
South Fayette defeated the Quips, 36-28 at Heinz Field last year. But I believe that the Quips defense is too strong this time, and will be too much for Brumbaugh and company this time.
Winner: Aliquippa
AAA
#1 Central Valley vs. #3 West Allegheny
The Warriors defeated the Indians, 28-17 when these 2 parkway teams met in the regular season. This game is really hard to predict, but I think the fact that Bob Palko is 7-0 at Heinz Field is a very telling stat. I also think Palko is good at making adjustments, and these adjustments will put West A over the top in this one, along with the running of senior Chayse Dillion and juniors Terrance Stephans and Whitney White .
Winner: West Allegheny
AAAA
#1 Pine Richland vs. #3 Central Catholic
Despite the fact that the Vikings lost to QB Ben DiNucci and the Rams, 48-28 when the played in the regular season, I believe that the Vikings are a way different team since then. It will be close, but I think Central's much improved defense will make life hard for DiNucci and company.
Winner: Central Catholic
Monday, November 17, 2014
Steelers/Titians prediction
The Pittsburgh Steelers will take on the Tennessee Titans on Monday night in Tennesse. I believe that the Steelers will bounce back and win this one rather easily.
Winner: Steelers
Winner: Steelers
Saturday, November 15, 2014
NFL Week 11 Preview
1:00
Chiefs(6-3) at Seahawks(6-3)
This is a matchup between 2 playoff level teams. Both teams run the ball very well, but the difference in this game will be the fact that the Chiefs are 20th in the leagueint stopping the run while the Seahawks are 4th. The Sehawks defensive line will be the difference in this one, and Marshawn Lynch will exploit the Chiefs weakness up front.
Winner: Seattle
4:25
Eagles(7-2) at Packers(6-3)
This game is tough to predict. A key stat to point out is the fact that Green Bay is 30th in the league in stopping the run, and the Eagles have a pretty good back in LeSean McCoy, which will take a lot of pressure off of Mark Sanchez.
Winner: Eagles
Lions(7-2) at Cardinals(8-1)
Another good one. The Lions are 2nd in the league in stopping the run, while Arizona is 30th in the league in rushing yards per game. The Card's secondary is also 30th in the league in pass defense, and that fact should make Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson grin. Add this to the fact that Carson Palmer is lost for the season, and there will be plenty of happy fans in the Motor City on Sunday.
Winner: Lions
Sunday Night
Patriots(7-2) at Colts(6-3)
Very good Sunday Night matchup here. I am expecting there to be a lot of offense in this one. However, the Colts are 27th in the league in pass defense, and the Patriots have this guy named Tom Brady who is pretty good. That will make the difference in this one.
Winner: New England
Chiefs(6-3) at Seahawks(6-3)
This is a matchup between 2 playoff level teams. Both teams run the ball very well, but the difference in this game will be the fact that the Chiefs are 20th in the leagueint stopping the run while the Seahawks are 4th. The Sehawks defensive line will be the difference in this one, and Marshawn Lynch will exploit the Chiefs weakness up front.
Winner: Seattle
4:25
Eagles(7-2) at Packers(6-3)
This game is tough to predict. A key stat to point out is the fact that Green Bay is 30th in the league in stopping the run, and the Eagles have a pretty good back in LeSean McCoy, which will take a lot of pressure off of Mark Sanchez.
Winner: Eagles
Lions(7-2) at Cardinals(8-1)
Another good one. The Lions are 2nd in the league in stopping the run, while Arizona is 30th in the league in rushing yards per game. The Card's secondary is also 30th in the league in pass defense, and that fact should make Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson grin. Add this to the fact that Carson Palmer is lost for the season, and there will be plenty of happy fans in the Motor City on Sunday.
Winner: Lions
Sunday Night
Patriots(7-2) at Colts(6-3)
Very good Sunday Night matchup here. I am expecting there to be a lot of offense in this one. However, the Colts are 27th in the league in pass defense, and the Patriots have this guy named Tom Brady who is pretty good. That will make the difference in this one.
Winner: New England
Thursday, November 6, 2014
WPIAL Football Playoffs: Round 2 Predictions
A total of 16 teams, 4 from each classification, are still playing football at the moment. Let's get into how the matchup against each other.
A
#1 North Catholic vs. #9 South Side Beaver
NC, the defending state champs, should have no problem with a good but inferior South Side Beaver team.
Prediction: North Catholic
#2 Clairton vs. #7 Shenango
Clairton has blown through every opponent they have faced this season. Although I believe Shenango will keep it closer with the Bears then most teams did, I think that Clairton will handle them fairly easily.
Prediction: Clairton
#3 Neshannock vs. #6 Jeannette
This is a great matchup. Neshannock comes into this game at 10-0 while Jeannette is 9-1. It's a tossup, but I think Neshannock will be too much in the end.
Prediction: Neshannock
#4 Avonworth vs. #12 Riverside
Avonworth has only lost once this year to #1 North Catholic. I believe that they will be too much for a Cinderella hopeful in riverside, and will get another shot at the Trojans next week.
Winner: Avonworth
AA
#1 South Fayette vs. #8 South Park
The defending state champion Lions handled South Park pretty easily during the regular season. Expect tomorrow to be more of the same.
Winner: South Fayette
#2 Aliquippa vs. #7 Mount Pleasant
Aliquippa will celebrate the 30 year anniversary of beating Mt. Pleasant for the WPIAL title by doing the same tomorrow.
Winner: Aliquippa
#3 Washington vs. #6 Apollo-Ridge
I believe that the Prexies will be too much for AR in this one because they are the better team.
Winner: Apollo Ridge
#4 Seton-Lasalle vs. #5 Highlands
This will be a good one. I believe that the Rebels will take advantage of a banged-up Highlands team.
Winner: Seton-Lasalle
AAA
#1 Central Valley vs. #8 Indiana
Led by RB/CB Jordan Whitehead, the Warriors simply have too much fire power for the Little Indians to pull the upset.
Winner: Central Valley
#2 Thomas Jefferson vs. #10 Mars
The Planets are coming off of an upset of #7 Montour. This game will be hard fought, but I think Senior RB Austin Kemp will be the difference for TJ
Winner: Thomas Jefferson
#3 West Allegheny vs. #6 Franklin Regional
The Panthers will be looking for revenge on the defending AAA champs, as they ended FR's season in the semifinals last year. It will be close for a while, but the Indians will wear FR down in the end.
Winner: West Allegheny
#4 Hampton vs. #5 Ringgold
This will be a tough one. Both teams only have 1 loss, but I think QB Nico Law will be the difference and Ringgold will get it done.
Winner: Ringgold
AAAA
#1 Pine-Richland vs. #9 Altoona
Led by Senior QB Ben DiNucci, Pine Richland has been fantastic all year, and Altoona is not yet ready to compete with this caliber of a team.
Winner: PR
#2 Penn-Trafford vs. #7 North Allegheny
This is a very even 2 vs. 7. NA is a potentional sleeper team whine Penn-Trafford is undefeated. It will be a battle, but I think Penn-Trafford's talent will be a little too much for the Tigers in the end.
Winner: Penn Trafford.
#3 Central Catholic vs. #6 Woodland Hills
Oh boy. Game of the week for the WPIAL. I have great respect for both of these teams so I'd hate to pick but...... *flips coin* Central will pull it out in the end, as I think they have proved more this season then Woody High has.
Winner: Central Catholic
#5 McKeesport vs. #13 Plum
Plum pulled a major upset over #4 Penn Hills last week, but I think that midnight will strike this week, courtesy of the Tigers.
Winner: McKeesport
A
#1 North Catholic vs. #9 South Side Beaver
NC, the defending state champs, should have no problem with a good but inferior South Side Beaver team.
Prediction: North Catholic
#2 Clairton vs. #7 Shenango
Clairton has blown through every opponent they have faced this season. Although I believe Shenango will keep it closer with the Bears then most teams did, I think that Clairton will handle them fairly easily.
Prediction: Clairton
#3 Neshannock vs. #6 Jeannette
This is a great matchup. Neshannock comes into this game at 10-0 while Jeannette is 9-1. It's a tossup, but I think Neshannock will be too much in the end.
Prediction: Neshannock
#4 Avonworth vs. #12 Riverside
Avonworth has only lost once this year to #1 North Catholic. I believe that they will be too much for a Cinderella hopeful in riverside, and will get another shot at the Trojans next week.
Winner: Avonworth
AA
#1 South Fayette vs. #8 South Park
The defending state champion Lions handled South Park pretty easily during the regular season. Expect tomorrow to be more of the same.
Winner: South Fayette
#2 Aliquippa vs. #7 Mount Pleasant
Aliquippa will celebrate the 30 year anniversary of beating Mt. Pleasant for the WPIAL title by doing the same tomorrow.
Winner: Aliquippa
#3 Washington vs. #6 Apollo-Ridge
I believe that the Prexies will be too much for AR in this one because they are the better team.
Winner: Apollo Ridge
#4 Seton-Lasalle vs. #5 Highlands
This will be a good one. I believe that the Rebels will take advantage of a banged-up Highlands team.
Winner: Seton-Lasalle
AAA
#1 Central Valley vs. #8 Indiana
Led by RB/CB Jordan Whitehead, the Warriors simply have too much fire power for the Little Indians to pull the upset.
Winner: Central Valley
#2 Thomas Jefferson vs. #10 Mars
The Planets are coming off of an upset of #7 Montour. This game will be hard fought, but I think Senior RB Austin Kemp will be the difference for TJ
Winner: Thomas Jefferson
#3 West Allegheny vs. #6 Franklin Regional
The Panthers will be looking for revenge on the defending AAA champs, as they ended FR's season in the semifinals last year. It will be close for a while, but the Indians will wear FR down in the end.
Winner: West Allegheny
#4 Hampton vs. #5 Ringgold
This will be a tough one. Both teams only have 1 loss, but I think QB Nico Law will be the difference and Ringgold will get it done.
Winner: Ringgold
AAAA
#1 Pine-Richland vs. #9 Altoona
Led by Senior QB Ben DiNucci, Pine Richland has been fantastic all year, and Altoona is not yet ready to compete with this caliber of a team.
Winner: PR
#2 Penn-Trafford vs. #7 North Allegheny
This is a very even 2 vs. 7. NA is a potentional sleeper team whine Penn-Trafford is undefeated. It will be a battle, but I think Penn-Trafford's talent will be a little too much for the Tigers in the end.
Winner: Penn Trafford.
#3 Central Catholic vs. #6 Woodland Hills
Oh boy. Game of the week for the WPIAL. I have great respect for both of these teams so I'd hate to pick but...... *flips coin* Central will pull it out in the end, as I think they have proved more this season then Woody High has.
Winner: Central Catholic
#5 McKeesport vs. #13 Plum
Plum pulled a major upset over #4 Penn Hills last week, but I think that midnight will strike this week, courtesy of the Tigers.
Winner: McKeesport
Saturday, November 1, 2014
College Football: Predictions for key matchups
Now, I will predict what I think will happen in the key matchups in College Football for this week.
3:30
#7 TCU at #20 West Virginia
This matchup will be a shootout. WVU has an explosive offense, led by Senior QB Clint Trickett and Senior WR Kevin White, who leads the nation in receiving. TCU on the other hand is coming off an 82 point performance against Texas Tech. Led by Junior QB Trevone Boykin, the Horned Frogs lead the nation in scoring, averaging 50.4 points per game. It will be a shootout, but I believe that TCU will exploit the Mountaineers weak defense enough to pull out the win.
Prediction: TCU
7:00
#3 Auburn at #4 Ole Miss
A matchup between 2 SEC West teams, this should be a good one. Auburn, led by Junior QB Nick Marshall, is 6-1, coming off of a 42-35 thriller over South Carolina. Ole Miss, led by QB Seinor Bo Wallace, is coming off a heartbreaking 10-7 loss at LSU. The Ole Miss defense is the best scoring defense in the country, allowing an impressive 10.5 points per game, and I think that will be the difference tonight.
Prediction: Ole Miss
10:30
#12 Arizona at #22 UCLA
A Pac-12 matchup, both of these teams post explosive offenses. Arizona, led by Freshman QB Anu Solomon and Sophomore receiver Cayleb Jones, come into this game averaging 40.6 points per game. UCLA, led by Junior QB Brett Hundley, come into this game averaging 35.8 points per game. It will be close, but I think Arizona's defense is slightly better then UCLA's, and that will be the difference.
Prediction: Arizona
11:00
#17 Utah at #14 Arizona State
Another Pac 12 matchup between high scoring offenses. Arizona State is led by Junior QB Mike Bercovici and Junior WR Jaelen Strong, come into this game 19th in the country in passing, while Utah, led by Junior RB Devontae Booker, are coming off a big victory over USC last week. It will be close, but the fact that it is at home will help Arizona State pull it out.
Prediction: ASU
3:30
#7 TCU at #20 West Virginia
This matchup will be a shootout. WVU has an explosive offense, led by Senior QB Clint Trickett and Senior WR Kevin White, who leads the nation in receiving. TCU on the other hand is coming off an 82 point performance against Texas Tech. Led by Junior QB Trevone Boykin, the Horned Frogs lead the nation in scoring, averaging 50.4 points per game. It will be a shootout, but I believe that TCU will exploit the Mountaineers weak defense enough to pull out the win.
Prediction: TCU
7:00
#3 Auburn at #4 Ole Miss
A matchup between 2 SEC West teams, this should be a good one. Auburn, led by Junior QB Nick Marshall, is 6-1, coming off of a 42-35 thriller over South Carolina. Ole Miss, led by QB Seinor Bo Wallace, is coming off a heartbreaking 10-7 loss at LSU. The Ole Miss defense is the best scoring defense in the country, allowing an impressive 10.5 points per game, and I think that will be the difference tonight.
Prediction: Ole Miss
10:30
#12 Arizona at #22 UCLA
A Pac-12 matchup, both of these teams post explosive offenses. Arizona, led by Freshman QB Anu Solomon and Sophomore receiver Cayleb Jones, come into this game averaging 40.6 points per game. UCLA, led by Junior QB Brett Hundley, come into this game averaging 35.8 points per game. It will be close, but I think Arizona's defense is slightly better then UCLA's, and that will be the difference.
Prediction: Arizona
11:00
#17 Utah at #14 Arizona State
Another Pac 12 matchup between high scoring offenses. Arizona State is led by Junior QB Mike Bercovici and Junior WR Jaelen Strong, come into this game 19th in the country in passing, while Utah, led by Junior RB Devontae Booker, are coming off a big victory over USC last week. It will be close, but the fact that it is at home will help Arizona State pull it out.
Prediction: ASU
College Football: Predictions for Pitt/PSU
This week, Pitt takes on #24 Duke at home while Penn State takes on Maryland at home. Both games are at 12:00. Pitt was trounced last week against Georgia Tech, and I expect more of the same this week. Penn State lost a 31-24 2 OT thriller at home to Ohio State, and I expect them to handle Maryland pretty well today.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
World Series Game 6 Recap/Game 7 Prediction
The Kansas City Royals defeated the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night by a score of 10-0. The Royals had most of their fun in the bottom of the 2nd, in which the erupted for 7 runs. The first run scored when Mike Moustakas doubled, scoring Alex Gordon. The Royals added another when Nori Aoki singled to left, scoring Salvador Perez. They added 2 more when Lorenzo Cain singled, scoring Moustakas and Alcides Escobar. They padden their lead to 6-0 when Eric Hosmer doubled, scoring Cain and Aoki. The final run of the inning came when Billy Butler doubled home Hosmer, putting the Royals up by a touchdown. The Royals made it 8-0 in the 3rd when Lorenzo Cain hit a ground rule double, scoring Omar Infante. Infante scored again in the 5th when Escobar doubled him home. The last run of the night came when Moustakas hit a solo shot to right field in the 7th. Yorando Ventura picked up his first win of the series, pitching 7 innings of shutout ball, while honoring the late Oscar Tavares on his hat. Jake Peavy took the loss for the Giants, falling to 0-1 in the series. I believe that Game 7 will be a hard fought battle, but Tim Hudson is, in my opinion, more competitive then Jermery Guthrie, and therefore Hudson will out pitch him in this game. I also think San Fran is gonna riot tonight.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Giants 5, Royals 0
The San Franscio Giants defeated the Kansas City Royals in Game 5 the World Serieson Sunday night by a score of 5-0. The scoring startedin the botto of the 2nd when he grounded out, bringing home Hunter Pence for the games first run. Crawford continued the scoring in the 4th when he singled home Pablo Sandavol. It remained that way until the 8th when a 2 run double by Juan Perez scored Pence and Sandavol. The Giants would add 1 more in the 8th when Crawford singled home Perez. The real star of the game was Madison Bumgarner. The Giants ace continued his seller postseason with a complete game 4 hit shutout. He is now an 4-0 with an amazing 0.29 lifetime in world series play. James Shields dropped to 0-2 in the world series despite pitching 6 innings of 2 run ball. The Giants are now 1 win away from their 3rd championship in the last 5 years. Jake Peavy will try to bring that home for the Giants, and he will be opposed by Yorando Ventura.
Monday, October 27, 2014
WPIAL Playoff Seeding Predictions
The 2014 WPIAL Football Playoffs are upon us. I will predict how I think the seeding's will play out.
A
1. Clairton- The Bears have ran through every single opponent on their way to a 9-0 record. They have scored at least 54 points in every one of their games, and have only scored less then 60 3 times. They have also shutout 6 opponents and have not allowed more then 14 points.
2. North Catholic- The defending state champs field a strong team yet again as they are also 9-0. Their offense averages 47.7 points per game and they also field a strong defense.
3. Neshannock- Another undefeated team, Neshannock has not been challenged at all this season and will be tough to beat in the playoffs.
4. Jeannette- The Jayhawks have been very successful in their first season in A as they post an 8-1 record. However, their 58-14 lost to Clairton is the reason they are not the #3 seed in my opinion.
5. Avonworth- Another 8-1 team who has ran through every opponent except for a 34-0 loss to North Catholic.
6. Bethlehem Center- Despite being 9-0, Beth Center has had 2 close calls against Frazier and Greensburg Central Catholic. Their underwhelming win over a 5-4 Greensburg team is the one that knocks them down a few seeding spots in my opinion.
7. Frazier- Frazier comes in with an 8-1 record, its only blemish being to Beth Center. They have blown through every other opponent.
8. Shenango- Shenango comes in with a 6-3 record. All 3 losses have been blowouts to North Catholic, Avonworth and Neshannock. They will a hard time making a run in the playoffs.
9. South Side Beaver- The Rams come in with a 6-3 record. I have them seeded ahead of Brentwood because in my opinion they do not have a bad loss as their losses have been the Neshannock, Shenango and Avonworth..
10. Brentwood- Brentwood comes in with a 6-3 record. Their losses have been to North Catholic, Avonworth and a really bad one to 3-6 Rochester. They will also have a tough time making a run.
11. Mapletown- The Maples come in with a 7-2 record. They have losses to Beth-Center and Frazier but with wins over Avella and Monessen.
12. Greensburg Central Catholic- Greensburg comes in with a record of 5-4 and no impressive wins, so a deep playoff run seems unlikely.
13. Chartiers Houston- Also at 5-4, a deep playoff run also seems unlikely from this bunch.
14. Riverside- Yet Another 5-4 team, the Panthers are not a force and are not ready to make a run yet.
15. Avella- The Eagles do not have a lot of firepower at 5-4.
AA
1. South Fayette- Led by senior QB Brett Brumbaugh, the defending champs are once again poised to make a deep run, as they are 9-0.
2. Aliquippa- Always a power, the Quips are 9-0 and look to make a trip to Heinz for the 7th year in a row.
3. Washington- Another unbeaten team, the Prexies have a lot of fire power and look to get to Heinz for the 2nd time in 3 years.
4. Highlands- Yet another 9-0, the Golden Rams are new to the title picture, but they should be able to make a fairly deep run.
5. Seton LaSalle- At 8-1, the Rebels also look to make a deep playoff run.
6. Mt. Pleasant- At 7-2, The Vikings are not ready to win a championship just yet.
7. Apollo-Ridge- They are 9-1, with their only loss being a 28-27 nail biter to Highlands. However, the Vikings will most likely have to face Aliquippa in the 2nd round, and that is a battle I do not think they can win.
8. Beaver- At 7-2, I do not believe that the Bobcats will make a deep playoff run as they did last year. A 59-34 laugher to New Brighton is one of the reasons why I think this.
9. McGuffey- At 7-2, the Highlanders are much improved from last season. However, I still do not think they are ready to make a deep run just yet.
10. Beaver Falls- Not as strong as years past, the Tigers are still solid at 7-2. However, a 56-6 loss at Aliquippa does not bode well for a potential 2nd round matchup.
11. New Brighton- At 6-4, I do not believe New Brighton puts fear into a lot of people.
12. Shady Side Academy- At 6-3, the Indians are not a bad team, however I don't think they have what it takes to get out of the 1st round.
13. South Park- The Eagles, although 7-2, are not looked at as major concern.
14. Kittanning- The Wildcats, at 6-3 have been within a touchdown in 2 of their 3 losses. However, I do not think they will be able to get past Wash High.
15. Steel Valley- Although 6-3, they have very little chance of getting past the Quips.
16. Waynesburg-They pose no threat to South Fayette.
AAA
1. Central Valley- The Warriors are undefeated with very quality wins over Penn Hills and West Allegheny. They are led by Senior running backs Joran Whitehead and Preston Johnson, as well as quarterback John George.
2. Thomas Jefferson- As usual, Bill Cherpeck and the Jags have a very strong squad. They are 9-0 and led by running back Senior running back Austin Kemp. They will be a very tough out in the postseason.
3. West Allegheny- The Indians were undefeated and cruising until their first lost against Central Valley on Friday night. Despite the loss, Bob Palko's team will still be a force as they have won the past 2 WPIAL Championships.
4. Hampton- The Talbots were undefeated until Friday night when they were upset by Mars. Despite the loss, they have a very solid team which is capable of making a run.
5. Montour- Lou Cero's team has bounced back after an underwhelming performance last season and even took West Allegheny to the limit earlier this season. I believe that the Spartans are capable of pulling a major upset this November.
6. Ringgold- The Rams come in with an 8-1 record, their lone loss being to Thomas Jefferson. They have a strong team who it will be interesting to see what they do against #3 West Allegheny if that matchup happens.
7. Franklin Regional- The Panthers have a record of 6-3. with losses to TJ, Hampton, and Knoch but with a key win over Indiana. However, I do not expect them to go far in the playoffs.
8. Indiana- The Little Indians are also 6-3, however with bad losses to Greensburg Salem and Gateway, but with quality win over Mars. As with F, I think their playoff stay will be short.
9. Mars- Mars is 6-3 with a very quality win over Hampton but with losses, to FR, Indiana and Knoch.
10. West Mifflin- The Titians have a record of 6-3 with loses to TJ, Ringold and a bad loss to Trinity, but with a key win over Belle Vernon. However, I expect them to get bounced in the first round
11. Belle Vernon- At 5-4. the Lepords do not put fear into many teams and like West Mifflin, I expect them to get bounced in the 1st round.
12. Gateway- The Gators are not like they used to be. 1st year coach Tom Nola inherited a young team that will be up again soon. As for now though, the Gators are not a force.
13. Knoch- 3 of Knoch's 4 losses have been close and they have a very quality win over Frannklin Regional. However, I think #4 Hampton will be too much for them.
14. New Castle- The Hurricanes bounced back after starting 0-4 to finish at 4-5 coming out of the Parkway Conference. However, they are still too young to be a force.
15. Laurel Highlands- The Mustangs will have to face TJ in the first round, and I think midnight will come early for them.
16. Moon- Another Parkway Team, The Tigers are 4-5 and are not yet ready to compete, although they have gotten better in the past few years.
AAAA
1. Pine Richland- Led by QB Dom Denucci, the Rams have a 9-0 record and there is a great chance that they will make it to Heinz.
2. Penn Trafford- Another undefeated team, the Warriors are new to the title picture, but they have as good a chance as anyone of getting to Heinz Field.
3. Central Catholic- Coach Terry Totten leads the defending champs into the playoffs with a 8-1 record, and they will look to repeat as champions.
4. Penn Hills- The Indians are coming off a big win over Woodland Hills, and are a team to watch as a potential threat to Pine Richland.
5. Woodland Hills- Despite losing to Penn Hills on the last Friday, Junior Runningback Miles Sanders and the Wolverines still have a chance to make it to Heinz Field. Their other loss was to West Allegheny.
6. McKeesport- At 8-1, it will be interesting to see what the Tigers will do in a potential 2nd round matchup with Central Catholic. Their only loss this season is to Penn Trafford.
7. North Allegheny- Art Walker has another strong team, and at 7-2 I believe they can upset Penn Trafford in the 2nd round if that matchup takes place.
8. Bethel Park- With a win over Penn Hills and a near victor against Woodland Hills, the Hawks have proven that they can compete with the big boys. However, I think Pine Richland will be too much for them in the 2nd round.
9. Altoona-Altough they are 7-2, I believe that Bethel Park will squeak by the Lions in the 1st round.
10. North Hills- At 6-3, I do not believe the Indians will get past the 1st round.
12. Upper St. Clair- Jim Render's team is not as strong as years past. They will not get past McKeesport in round 1.
11. Mt. Lebanon - The Blue Devils were dominated when the played Woodland Hills in the regular season, and that does not bode well for my projected 1st round match.
13. Fox Chapel- At 4-5, Fox Chapel is not a threat to Central Catholic.
14. Norwin- Norwin, although 5-4, does not have much of a shot against Penn Hills
15. Plum- Plum will have a short stay, as Penn Trafford will end the party rather quickly.
16. Connellsville- A #16 has rarely ever beaten a 1, and these guys will not be an exception.
A
1. Clairton- The Bears have ran through every single opponent on their way to a 9-0 record. They have scored at least 54 points in every one of their games, and have only scored less then 60 3 times. They have also shutout 6 opponents and have not allowed more then 14 points.
2. North Catholic- The defending state champs field a strong team yet again as they are also 9-0. Their offense averages 47.7 points per game and they also field a strong defense.
3. Neshannock- Another undefeated team, Neshannock has not been challenged at all this season and will be tough to beat in the playoffs.
4. Jeannette- The Jayhawks have been very successful in their first season in A as they post an 8-1 record. However, their 58-14 lost to Clairton is the reason they are not the #3 seed in my opinion.
5. Avonworth- Another 8-1 team who has ran through every opponent except for a 34-0 loss to North Catholic.
6. Bethlehem Center- Despite being 9-0, Beth Center has had 2 close calls against Frazier and Greensburg Central Catholic. Their underwhelming win over a 5-4 Greensburg team is the one that knocks them down a few seeding spots in my opinion.
7. Frazier- Frazier comes in with an 8-1 record, its only blemish being to Beth Center. They have blown through every other opponent.
8. Shenango- Shenango comes in with a 6-3 record. All 3 losses have been blowouts to North Catholic, Avonworth and Neshannock. They will a hard time making a run in the playoffs.
9. South Side Beaver- The Rams come in with a 6-3 record. I have them seeded ahead of Brentwood because in my opinion they do not have a bad loss as their losses have been the Neshannock, Shenango and Avonworth..
10. Brentwood- Brentwood comes in with a 6-3 record. Their losses have been to North Catholic, Avonworth and a really bad one to 3-6 Rochester. They will also have a tough time making a run.
11. Mapletown- The Maples come in with a 7-2 record. They have losses to Beth-Center and Frazier but with wins over Avella and Monessen.
12. Greensburg Central Catholic- Greensburg comes in with a record of 5-4 and no impressive wins, so a deep playoff run seems unlikely.
13. Chartiers Houston- Also at 5-4, a deep playoff run also seems unlikely from this bunch.
14. Riverside- Yet Another 5-4 team, the Panthers are not a force and are not ready to make a run yet.
15. Avella- The Eagles do not have a lot of firepower at 5-4.
AA
1. South Fayette- Led by senior QB Brett Brumbaugh, the defending champs are once again poised to make a deep run, as they are 9-0.
2. Aliquippa- Always a power, the Quips are 9-0 and look to make a trip to Heinz for the 7th year in a row.
3. Washington- Another unbeaten team, the Prexies have a lot of fire power and look to get to Heinz for the 2nd time in 3 years.
4. Highlands- Yet another 9-0, the Golden Rams are new to the title picture, but they should be able to make a fairly deep run.
5. Seton LaSalle- At 8-1, the Rebels also look to make a deep playoff run.
6. Mt. Pleasant- At 7-2, The Vikings are not ready to win a championship just yet.
7. Apollo-Ridge- They are 9-1, with their only loss being a 28-27 nail biter to Highlands. However, the Vikings will most likely have to face Aliquippa in the 2nd round, and that is a battle I do not think they can win.
8. Beaver- At 7-2, I do not believe that the Bobcats will make a deep playoff run as they did last year. A 59-34 laugher to New Brighton is one of the reasons why I think this.
9. McGuffey- At 7-2, the Highlanders are much improved from last season. However, I still do not think they are ready to make a deep run just yet.
10. Beaver Falls- Not as strong as years past, the Tigers are still solid at 7-2. However, a 56-6 loss at Aliquippa does not bode well for a potential 2nd round matchup.
11. New Brighton- At 6-4, I do not believe New Brighton puts fear into a lot of people.
12. Shady Side Academy- At 6-3, the Indians are not a bad team, however I don't think they have what it takes to get out of the 1st round.
13. South Park- The Eagles, although 7-2, are not looked at as major concern.
14. Kittanning- The Wildcats, at 6-3 have been within a touchdown in 2 of their 3 losses. However, I do not think they will be able to get past Wash High.
15. Steel Valley- Although 6-3, they have very little chance of getting past the Quips.
16. Waynesburg-They pose no threat to South Fayette.
AAA
1. Central Valley- The Warriors are undefeated with very quality wins over Penn Hills and West Allegheny. They are led by Senior running backs Joran Whitehead and Preston Johnson, as well as quarterback John George.
2. Thomas Jefferson- As usual, Bill Cherpeck and the Jags have a very strong squad. They are 9-0 and led by running back Senior running back Austin Kemp. They will be a very tough out in the postseason.
3. West Allegheny- The Indians were undefeated and cruising until their first lost against Central Valley on Friday night. Despite the loss, Bob Palko's team will still be a force as they have won the past 2 WPIAL Championships.
4. Hampton- The Talbots were undefeated until Friday night when they were upset by Mars. Despite the loss, they have a very solid team which is capable of making a run.
5. Montour- Lou Cero's team has bounced back after an underwhelming performance last season and even took West Allegheny to the limit earlier this season. I believe that the Spartans are capable of pulling a major upset this November.
6. Ringgold- The Rams come in with an 8-1 record, their lone loss being to Thomas Jefferson. They have a strong team who it will be interesting to see what they do against #3 West Allegheny if that matchup happens.
7. Franklin Regional- The Panthers have a record of 6-3. with losses to TJ, Hampton, and Knoch but with a key win over Indiana. However, I do not expect them to go far in the playoffs.
8. Indiana- The Little Indians are also 6-3, however with bad losses to Greensburg Salem and Gateway, but with quality win over Mars. As with F, I think their playoff stay will be short.
9. Mars- Mars is 6-3 with a very quality win over Hampton but with losses, to FR, Indiana and Knoch.
10. West Mifflin- The Titians have a record of 6-3 with loses to TJ, Ringold and a bad loss to Trinity, but with a key win over Belle Vernon. However, I expect them to get bounced in the first round
11. Belle Vernon- At 5-4. the Lepords do not put fear into many teams and like West Mifflin, I expect them to get bounced in the 1st round.
12. Gateway- The Gators are not like they used to be. 1st year coach Tom Nola inherited a young team that will be up again soon. As for now though, the Gators are not a force.
13. Knoch- 3 of Knoch's 4 losses have been close and they have a very quality win over Frannklin Regional. However, I think #4 Hampton will be too much for them.
14. New Castle- The Hurricanes bounced back after starting 0-4 to finish at 4-5 coming out of the Parkway Conference. However, they are still too young to be a force.
15. Laurel Highlands- The Mustangs will have to face TJ in the first round, and I think midnight will come early for them.
16. Moon- Another Parkway Team, The Tigers are 4-5 and are not yet ready to compete, although they have gotten better in the past few years.
AAAA
1. Pine Richland- Led by QB Dom Denucci, the Rams have a 9-0 record and there is a great chance that they will make it to Heinz.
2. Penn Trafford- Another undefeated team, the Warriors are new to the title picture, but they have as good a chance as anyone of getting to Heinz Field.
3. Central Catholic- Coach Terry Totten leads the defending champs into the playoffs with a 8-1 record, and they will look to repeat as champions.
4. Penn Hills- The Indians are coming off a big win over Woodland Hills, and are a team to watch as a potential threat to Pine Richland.
5. Woodland Hills- Despite losing to Penn Hills on the last Friday, Junior Runningback Miles Sanders and the Wolverines still have a chance to make it to Heinz Field. Their other loss was to West Allegheny.
6. McKeesport- At 8-1, it will be interesting to see what the Tigers will do in a potential 2nd round matchup with Central Catholic. Their only loss this season is to Penn Trafford.
7. North Allegheny- Art Walker has another strong team, and at 7-2 I believe they can upset Penn Trafford in the 2nd round if that matchup takes place.
8. Bethel Park- With a win over Penn Hills and a near victor against Woodland Hills, the Hawks have proven that they can compete with the big boys. However, I think Pine Richland will be too much for them in the 2nd round.
9. Altoona-Altough they are 7-2, I believe that Bethel Park will squeak by the Lions in the 1st round.
10. North Hills- At 6-3, I do not believe the Indians will get past the 1st round.
12. Upper St. Clair- Jim Render's team is not as strong as years past. They will not get past McKeesport in round 1.
11. Mt. Lebanon - The Blue Devils were dominated when the played Woodland Hills in the regular season, and that does not bode well for my projected 1st round match.
13. Fox Chapel- At 4-5, Fox Chapel is not a threat to Central Catholic.
14. Norwin- Norwin, although 5-4, does not have much of a shot against Penn Hills
15. Plum- Plum will have a short stay, as Penn Trafford will end the party rather quickly.
16. Connellsville- A #16 has rarely ever beaten a 1, and these guys will not be an exception.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
World Series Preview
It's that time of year again. It's the fall classic. For 30 other teams, this is a symbol of what they all want to achieve. For the San Francisco Giants and the Kansas City Royal's however, it is reality. These 2 teams have worked hard since April to achieve their goal of getting to this point, and neither was expected to be here. But Baseball has shown us that this game simply cannot be predicted, and they have defied the odds and made it to this point. In this article I will give my thoughts on each team and predict how this series will play out based on that.
Few people though the Kansas City Royals would be in this position when the season started on March 31st. Even fewer believed it when they were a mediocre 50-50 through 100 games. But KC proceeded to go on a terror, and finished the season strong enough to earn a wildcard spot. They proceeded to erase a 7-3 deficit against the A's in the wildcard game to win 9-8 in 11 innings. They surprised everyone when they swept the Angles and the Orioles in the ALDS and ALCS to win their first Pennant since 1985.
The Giants got off to a hot start, as they were in first place throughout April and May. But they stumbled in the 2nd half of the season and finished a distant 2nd to the Dodgers in the NL West. They defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-0 in the NL Wildcard game, then proceeded to defeat the Nationals in 4 games and the Cardinals in 5, the last win being via way of a walk off 3 run home run by Travis Ishikawa to win their 3rd NL Pennant in the past 5 years. I will now discuss how the teams match up against each other.
Pitching
Both teams post strong starting pitching staffs. The Giants staff is anchored by Madison Bumgarner and Tim Hudson while the Royals staff is led by James Shields and Darren Duffy. Both teams have strong rotations but I give the Giants a slight edge based on the numbers, as they are 10th in the league in staff era while KC is 12th.
Edge: San Fran
Offense
Neither team is particularly strong offensively. They Royals, led by Alex Gordon, Mike Moustakas and Salvador Perez, are in the top 10 in batting average but are only 14th in the league in runs scored as they do not walk very often. The Giants, led by Buster Poesy and Pablo Sandaval, are 12th in the league in runs scored. Based on the fact that runs win games, I will give the Giants the edge here as well.
Edge: San Fran
Bullpen
This will be a very important factor in this series. Both teams bullpens have posten ERA's well below 2 this postseason. I will give KC the edge, because Greg Holland and Wade Davis have been near un-hitable as of late.
Edge: KC
Managing
Easy one here. Bruce Bochy has 4 NL Pennants and 2 World Championships to his credit, while Ned Yost had never made the playoffs before this season.
Edge: San Fran
I predict a great series, but the Giants are so clutch in the postseason and I believe they are a better team overall, so I will pick the Giants to win their 3rd world title in the past 5 seasons.
Prediction: Giants in 6 games.
Few people though the Kansas City Royals would be in this position when the season started on March 31st. Even fewer believed it when they were a mediocre 50-50 through 100 games. But KC proceeded to go on a terror, and finished the season strong enough to earn a wildcard spot. They proceeded to erase a 7-3 deficit against the A's in the wildcard game to win 9-8 in 11 innings. They surprised everyone when they swept the Angles and the Orioles in the ALDS and ALCS to win their first Pennant since 1985.
The Giants got off to a hot start, as they were in first place throughout April and May. But they stumbled in the 2nd half of the season and finished a distant 2nd to the Dodgers in the NL West. They defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-0 in the NL Wildcard game, then proceeded to defeat the Nationals in 4 games and the Cardinals in 5, the last win being via way of a walk off 3 run home run by Travis Ishikawa to win their 3rd NL Pennant in the past 5 years. I will now discuss how the teams match up against each other.
Pitching
Both teams post strong starting pitching staffs. The Giants staff is anchored by Madison Bumgarner and Tim Hudson while the Royals staff is led by James Shields and Darren Duffy. Both teams have strong rotations but I give the Giants a slight edge based on the numbers, as they are 10th in the league in staff era while KC is 12th.
Edge: San Fran
Offense
Neither team is particularly strong offensively. They Royals, led by Alex Gordon, Mike Moustakas and Salvador Perez, are in the top 10 in batting average but are only 14th in the league in runs scored as they do not walk very often. The Giants, led by Buster Poesy and Pablo Sandaval, are 12th in the league in runs scored. Based on the fact that runs win games, I will give the Giants the edge here as well.
Edge: San Fran
Bullpen
This will be a very important factor in this series. Both teams bullpens have posten ERA's well below 2 this postseason. I will give KC the edge, because Greg Holland and Wade Davis have been near un-hitable as of late.
Edge: KC
Managing
Easy one here. Bruce Bochy has 4 NL Pennants and 2 World Championships to his credit, while Ned Yost had never made the playoffs before this season.
Edge: San Fran
I predict a great series, but the Giants are so clutch in the postseason and I believe they are a better team overall, so I will pick the Giants to win their 3rd world title in the past 5 seasons.
Prediction: Giants in 6 games.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Braves 6, Pirates 2
The Pittsburgh Pirates fell to the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday night by a score of 6-2. The Braves got the scoring started in the bottom of the 2nd when Emilio Bonifacio singled to right, scoring Chris Johnson and BJ Upton. The Braves added 2 more in the 3rd when a single by pitcher Julio Teheran scored Johnson and Christian Bethancourt. The Bravos would put the game away in the 5th on a 2 run dinger by Justin Upton, his 28th. The Pirates would get 2 runs back in the next half inning when Andrew McCutchen's 25th homerun of the season made it 6-2, but it would prove to be meaningless. Julio Teheran picked up the win to improve to 14-13, while Jeff Locke picked up the loss to fall to 7-6. Craig Kimbrel picked up his 45th save. The Pirates are still 1.5 GB of the Cards in the NL Central.
Pirates 3, Braves 2. Playoff spot clinched
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night by a score of 3-2, and with the Brewers losing to the Cincinnati Reds 3-1, the Pirates have now clinched a playoff spot for the 2nd season in a row. The Braves struck first in the bottom of the 1st when Freddy Freeman doubled to right, scoring Phil Gosselin. They would add 1 more in the 2nd when Andrelton Simmons grounded into a double play, scoring Jason Heyward. The Pirates would get on the board in the 4th when Braves catcher Christian Bethancourt threw the ball into centerfield, allowing Andrew McCutchen to score. The Pirates tied the game in the 5th on a solo shot by Travis Snider. The Pirates would take the lead for good in the 6th when Starling Marte doubled to left, scoring McCutchen. Jared Hughes and Tony Watson would shut down the Bravos in the 8th and 9th innings to seal the gam. Gerrit Cole picked up his 11th win of the season after pitching 7 innings and allowing only 2 runs. Alex Wood took the loss despite allowing just 2 runs over 6.2 innings pitched. Tony Watson picked up his second save of the season. The Pirates are now 1.5 GB of St. Louis in the NL Central and 1 game ahead of the Giants for the 1st wildcard spot.
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Pirates 1, Braves 0
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Atlanta Braves on Monday night by a score of 1-0. The game was scoreless until the top of the 6th when Andrew McCutchen took Aaron Harang deep with a solo shot. That run would prove to be enough as Jared Hughes, John Holdzkom and Mark Melancon shut down the Bravos for the next 3 innings. Francisco Liarino pitch 6 scoreless for the win to improve to 7-10. Franky is on fire as he has allowed a total of 3 runs over his past 6 starts, and Aaron Harang took the loss despite allowing 1 run over 7 innings Mark Melancon picked up his 32nd save. The magic number for the Pirates to make the playoffs is now at 2, and they can clinch tonight with a win and a Brewers loss. They are tied with the Giants for the 1st wildcard spot and remain 2.5 GB of St. Louis for the division. It is the first time since 1917 that the Pirates have played in 3 straight 1-0 games.
Friday, September 19, 2014
Pirates 3, Red Sox 2
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Boston Red Sox on Thursday night by a score of 3-2. The Pirates drew first blood in the Bottom of the 1st when Russell Martin drew a bases loaded walk, scoring Travis Snider. The Red Sox would tie the game in the Top of the 3rd when a single by Mookie Betts scored Cesar Vasquez. The Pirates would regain the lead in the 4th when a single by Chris Stewart scored Ike Davis. They would add 1 more in the 5th on a solo shot by Starling Marte. The game would remain that way until the Top of the 8th when Xander Bogarts hit a Sac Fly, scoring Vasquez. Things interesting in the 9th when Mark Melancon hit Allen Craig, then gave up a single to Daniel Nava, putting runners on 1st and 3rd with nobody out. Then the Pirates got a huge break when Will Middlebrooks hit a ball to 3rd, which hit pinch runner Jemile Weeks, so therefore Weeks was out. Jackie Bradley Jr proceeded to strike out, then Vasquez grounded out to end the game. Gerritt Cole pitched 7 innings for the win to improve to 10-5, while Bob Workman took the loss, dropping to 1-10. Mark Melancon picked up save #30. The Pirates are now 82-70, 2 GB of The Giants for the 1st Wildcard spot and 2.5 GB of St. Louis in the NL Central.
Monday, September 15, 2014
Pirates 7, Cubs 3: First Triple Play in PNC History
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Chicago Cubs on Sunday by a score of 7-3. The Cubs drew first blood in the Top of the 2nd when Matt Szczur reached on an infield single, scoring Luis Valbuena. They would add 1 more that inning when John Baker hit a sac fly, scoring Mike Olt. The Cubs would add 1 more in the Top of the 3rd when a sac fly by Chirs Coghlan scored Javier Baez. In the Top of the 4th, with men on 1st and 2nd and nobody out, Szczur would become a part of one of the rarest plays in baseball when he hit into a 5-4-3 Triple Play, the first in PNC Park history. The Pirates would get on the board in the bottom half of the inning on a solo shot by Neil Walker. The Bucs would erupt for 6 runs in the Bottom of the 5th. Josh Harrison hit a double, scoring Jordy Mercer and Gregory Polanco to tie the game. They would take the lead 1 batter later on a double by Travis Snider. After a single by Andrew McCutchen, Neil Walker doubled, scoring Snider. After Russell Martin was intentionaly walker, Gaby Sanchez, batting for Andrew Lambo, reached on an infield single, scoring McCutchen. Gregory Polanco would finish the scoring with an infield single of his own, scoring Walker. That would be it for the scoring, as the Bucs took care of business the rest of the way. Edinson Volquez picked up the win, improving to 12-7 on the year, while Jacob Turner took the loss, falling to 5-10. The Pirates are now 79-70, 3.5 GB of 1st place St. Louis and 1 1/2 games up on Milliwake for the 2nd wildcard spot.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Phillies 4, Pirates 3
The Pittsburgh Pirates fell to the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night by a score of 4-3. The Phillies drew first blood in the Bottom of the 1st when after Neil Walker and Gregory Polanco lost a pop up in the lights, Chase Utley singled home Maikel Franco for the games 1st run. The Pirates would tie the game in the next half inning when a 2 out double by Jordy Mercer scored Russell Martin. The Phillies would get that run back in the Bottom half of the inning when a single by pitcher David Buchanan scored Freddy Galvis. The Pirates would take the lead in the Top of the 3rd when a double by Martin scored Walker and Starling Marte. The Phillies would tie the game in the Bottom of the 5th on a homerun by Freddy Galvis. They would proceed to take the lead in the Bottom of the 7th when a single by Franco scored Galvis. Jonathon Papalbon would nail down the save after striking out Josh Harrison with Polanco on 3rd. Justin Wilson took the loss for the Pirates to fall to 3-4 while Justin De Fratus picked up the win for the Phillies to improve to 3-1. The Pirates are now 75-69, 5 GB of First Place St. Louis, and they maintain a 1.5 game lead on Atlanta for the 2nd wildcard spot.
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Pirates take first 2 from Cubs
The Pittsburgh Pirates took the first 2 of a 3 game series with the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field by score of 5-3 and 5-0. The first game started on Friday, and The Pirates drew first blood when Russell Martin reached on an error in the 1st, scoring Josh Harrison. The Cubs would tie the game in the Bottom of the 3rd on a Sac Fly by Jorge Soler, scoring Arismendy Alcantara. They would take the lead later that inning when Chris Valaika reached on a throwing error by Josh Harrison, scoring Luis Valbuena.The Pirates would score 2 in the 4th to regain the lead. They would tie the game on a double by Jose Tabata, scoring Neil Walker. Tabata would later score on a double by Harrison to give the Pirates a 3-2 lead. The Cubs would tie the game in the Bottom of the 5th on a single by Valaika, scoring Valbuena. The Game would be suspended in the 7th inning due to rain and continued the following day. When the Game resumed, the Pirates would score 2 runs in the 11th inning for the win. They took the lead when a single by Harrison scored Neil Walker. They would add insurance when a Sac Fly by Tony Sanchez scored Gregory Polanco. Mark Melancon got the win to improve to 3-4 on the year and Wesley Wright took the loss to drop to 0-3. Palm Ball throwing John Holdzkom picked up his first Major League save. After the game, Harrison was diagnosed with discomfort in his foot, which would be a big blow to the Pirates if serious. In the next game, the Pirates scored first in the 1st inning on a Jordy Mercer RBI Single, scoring Starling Marte. They would increase their lead in the 3rd when a groundout by Gaby Sanchez scored Andrew McCutchen. It would remain that way until the 7th when a single by McCutchen scored Chase d'Arnaud. The Pirates would make it 4-0 in the 8th when a single by Brent Morel scored Gregory Polanco. The games final run was scored in the 9th on a solo shot by Mercer. Franscio Liariano pitched 6 shutout innings for the win to improve to 4-10 and Felix Doubront took the loss to fall to 1-1. Friday, August 29, 2014
Pirates 3, Cards 1
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday by a score of 3-1. The Pirates drew first blood in the Bottom of the 1st on a 2 run shot by Ike Davis that hit the speaker in Center field. The Cards cut the lead in half in the Top of the 3rd on a solo shot by Matt Holiday. The Pirates would get that run back in the Bottom half on a Sac Fly by Andrew McCutchen. That would be it for the scoring as both Jeff Locke and Adam Wainwright were solid from there on out. Locke pitched 7.1 innings of 1 run ball to improve to 6-3, while Wainwright fell to 15-9 despite allowing a respectable 3 runs over 6 innings. Mark Melancon pitched a scoreless 9th for his 24th save. The Pirates are now 69-64 on the season, 4 games back of 1st place Brewers and 2 games back of a wildcard spot.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Alvarez's 2 Homeruns Propel Pirates to 10-2 romp over Brewers
The Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Milwaukie Brewers on Saturday night by a score of 10-2. Milwaukie drew first blood in the 2nd with a solo dinger by Scoter Gennett. They would increase their lead in the 3rd when Khirs Davis hit a double, scoring Aramis Ramirez. That would be it for Milwaukie offensively. The Pirates took the lead in the next half inning with a 3 run blast by Pedro Alvarez. They would add on in the 4th when a double by Neil Walker scored Travis Snider. Later that inning, Russell Martin would bust the game open with a 3 run dinger, followed by another Alvarez bomb 1 batter later. The Pirates would add on 2 more runs on 2 singles by Walker. The 10 run outburst was more then enough for Edinson Volquez, as he allowed just the 2 runs over 5.2 innings despite allowing 11 hits. The win moved the Pirates to within 4 games of Milwaukie in the division and 1.5 games back of a wildcard spot. With a lot of baseball left to be played, a lot can happen between now and the end of the season. That's all for tonight, thanks for reading. Monday, April 7, 2014
NCAA Title Game Prediction
Offense
No brainer here. The Cats, led by Julius Randall and the Harrison twins, are a solid offensive team and have been this whole tournament. UConn, on the other hand, has struggled offensively all year long, and it has continued the past 2 games, with the Huskies scoring 60 and 63 points respectively. Shabzz Napier and DeAndre Daniles are both solid, but I just think the Wildcats have more offensive firepower.
Edge: UK
Defense
This is where the Huskies have an advantage. When a team is 144th in the country and makes it to the title game, they must be doing something right defensively. The Huskies have size and are very athletic, and the same could be said about UK. I just fell that UConn has a slight edge, as the Cats cannot force turnovers, while the Huskies rank in the top ten in the country in steals per game.
Edge: UConn
Coaching: Calipari>Ollie. Not a lot of explaining needs to be done here.
Edge: UK
Overall: These teams match up very evenly, but I feel that one huge stat to point out is that UK is 5th in the country in offensive rebounding. I feel that that stat could be the key to tonight's game. As for experience, UConn does not have anymore then Kentucky does when it comes to big games, no matter how many Freshman UK has. I feel that while both teams were not expected to be here, UK has more talent and has thought through more adversity, as they have played in more close games.
Therefore, Kentucky takes it home tonight.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Opening Day 2014: My thoughts on the best day of the year
As always, Opening Day of the Baseball season brought a lot of excitement, drama and if nothing else, knowing that Baseball, the greatest sport of all time, will be back for another 6 months. Spring is here, and as you all know, spring is the revival of hope. Well, enough of the corny lets talk about the games.
The first game was on Sunday night, and it was a good one. The LA Dodgers took on the San Diego Padres. LA took a 1-0 lead into the 8th inning behind the steller pitching of Hyun-Jin Ryu, and a single by Carl Crawford for LA's 1st and only run of the game. For a while it looked like that run would hold up for LA, but the game was not over yet. Brian Wilson entered the game for LA, and the first batter he faced was pinch hitter Seth Smith. Smith would proced to crush one into the Right Field stands, and just like that the game was tied at 1. Big Blue would unravil after that. A walk and an error, followed by a double steal would put runners at 2nd and 3rd for Chirs Deneforia. Denforia would single, scoring Evreth Cabera and Yasmani Grandal, giving San Diego a 3-1 lead. Dale Thayer would shut down LA in the 9th, and the Padres would end the night with a 1-0 record, while LA would fall to 2-1.
The next game we will discuess took place in the great city of Baltimore, Maryland, where the Orioles defeted the Boston Red Sox by a score of 2-1. Both Nelson Cruz(Baltimore) and Grady Siezmore(Boston) hit homeruns in their debut's for their respective teams. Siezmore's homer was extra meaningful, as it was his first game since 2011. Cruz's homer ended up being more significant in terms of the games outcome, as it broke a 1-1 tie in the 7th inning, and wound up being the deciding run. Tommy Hunter would nail down his first save as an Oriole, and the Birds left Camdon Yards with a 1-0 record.
The final game we will talk about took place at PNC Park, where the Pittsburgh Pirates took on the Chicago Cubs. The game was tied going into the Bottom of the 10th inning, but that would change when Neil Walker hit a walkoff homerun over the Clemente Wall off of Carlos Villanauvia, to give the Bucs a 1-0 win. I was at this game, and it was fantastic. The Pirates played a solid game overall, and deserved to win this one.
Overall, opening day was fantastic, and had a lot of things that I love about Americas Pastime.
Thats all I have to say about that. Thanks for Reading!
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Elite 8: Review of Saturday's games/ Preidctions for Sundays games.
Hello again. I had started writing my review of the Sweet 16, but things happened and I ended up not finishing it. So, I am back with my review of the Elite 8 so far. 2 games took place on Saturday, so I will discuss them and also predict what will happen in Sundays games. Let's get into it.
#1 Florida ended Dayton's magical run by defeating the Flyers, 62-52. Scottie Wilbekin lead the Gators with 23 points, while Dayshawn Pierre had 18 for the Flyers. It was a great run for the Flyers, and they have nothing to be ashamed of. They just ran into a better team.
Now, lets get to the game that really has people talking. #2 Wisconsin defeated #1 Arizona by a score of 64-63 in Overtime. It was back and forth the whole way through, with neither team gaining a big sizeable advantage at any point in the game. The Badgers finally prevailed in overtime. The last 3 seconds of the game were hectic. Johnson was called for an offensive foul with 3.5 seconds remaining and the Wildcats down by 1. I think that the officials should have let it go in that situation, although I have never been an official, and I may have done the same thing if I only had that much time to make a call. It is no lock that Zona would have won the game, and that was not the only play that took place, so no credit should be taken away from Wisconsin. The game was not over yet, however as Arizona would get the ball back after the ball went apparently went off of the hands of a Wisconsin player. I did not think that there was enough evidence to overturn the call, but either way, I hate... HATE the length of these reviews in basketball games, as this play was reviewed for what felt like forever. I understand how important the some calls are, but there was once a time when officials did not feel the need to go to the monitor whenever a close call needed to be made, or deciding if a foul is flagrant or not( which also happened in this game, go figure) was not thought of as necessary. Did that make March Maddens any less exciting, I think not. I could go on for hours about this, but lets move on. Aaron Gordon would then miss a potential game winner, and Wisconsin punch their ticket to the Final Four. If I was Sean Miller, I would have tried to get the ball to a big man in the post, instead of drawing up a play to take a jump shot. Arizona was scoring inside a lot all game long, so it might have worked. Frank Kaminsky lead the Badgers with 28 points and 11 rebounds, while Nick Johnson lead the Wildcats with 16 points.
On Sunday, #7 UConn will face #4 Michigan State, #2 Michigan will face #8 Kentucky. UConn and UK were not expected to be here, but that is what's great about sports. My predictions? Kentucky is finally playing like they were expected to when the season started in November, and I believe they will pull off the upset here. Michigan did not impress me against Tennessee, and UK is hot. Julies Randal and company will get the Cats to their 3rd Final Four in the past 4 years. Michigan State will prevail as well in my opinion. They are playing great, and Tom Izzo is hard to bet against in these types of games.
That's all I've got to say about that. Thanks for Reading
#1 Florida ended Dayton's magical run by defeating the Flyers, 62-52. Scottie Wilbekin lead the Gators with 23 points, while Dayshawn Pierre had 18 for the Flyers. It was a great run for the Flyers, and they have nothing to be ashamed of. They just ran into a better team.
Now, lets get to the game that really has people talking. #2 Wisconsin defeated #1 Arizona by a score of 64-63 in Overtime. It was back and forth the whole way through, with neither team gaining a big sizeable advantage at any point in the game. The Badgers finally prevailed in overtime. The last 3 seconds of the game were hectic. Johnson was called for an offensive foul with 3.5 seconds remaining and the Wildcats down by 1. I think that the officials should have let it go in that situation, although I have never been an official, and I may have done the same thing if I only had that much time to make a call. It is no lock that Zona would have won the game, and that was not the only play that took place, so no credit should be taken away from Wisconsin. The game was not over yet, however as Arizona would get the ball back after the ball went apparently went off of the hands of a Wisconsin player. I did not think that there was enough evidence to overturn the call, but either way, I hate... HATE the length of these reviews in basketball games, as this play was reviewed for what felt like forever. I understand how important the some calls are, but there was once a time when officials did not feel the need to go to the monitor whenever a close call needed to be made, or deciding if a foul is flagrant or not( which also happened in this game, go figure) was not thought of as necessary. Did that make March Maddens any less exciting, I think not. I could go on for hours about this, but lets move on. Aaron Gordon would then miss a potential game winner, and Wisconsin punch their ticket to the Final Four. If I was Sean Miller, I would have tried to get the ball to a big man in the post, instead of drawing up a play to take a jump shot. Arizona was scoring inside a lot all game long, so it might have worked. Frank Kaminsky lead the Badgers with 28 points and 11 rebounds, while Nick Johnson lead the Wildcats with 16 points.
On Sunday, #7 UConn will face #4 Michigan State, #2 Michigan will face #8 Kentucky. UConn and UK were not expected to be here, but that is what's great about sports. My predictions? Kentucky is finally playing like they were expected to when the season started in November, and I believe they will pull off the upset here. Michigan did not impress me against Tennessee, and UK is hot. Julies Randal and company will get the Cats to their 3rd Final Four in the past 4 years. Michigan State will prevail as well in my opinion. They are playing great, and Tom Izzo is hard to bet against in these types of games.
That's all I've got to say about that. Thanks for Reading
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
NCAA Torunament: My thoughts as the Sweet 16 nears
Wow, do we have a lot to talk about. The first 2 rounds of March Maddness were beyond maddness. We saw upsets, heartbreak, joy and a lot of pissed off civilians throwing away their brackets by the time Saturdays games got underway. All of these things are what makes this month so special in the world of sports. When people who are not sports fans fill out a bracket and pay attention just for a brief period of time, that is a special thing. I am not going to do a breakdown of every single game because I am only a man, but I will give out awards, some good, some bad, but awards nonetheless. Let's get into it.
Biggest Surprise: Mercer beats Duke
Biggest disappointment: Wichita State loses to Kentucky
Any time a team that finished the season at 35-0 and gets a #1 seed loses in the 2nd round, it's hard to imagine them not getting this unfortunate award. I am not doing this to hate on Gregg Marshall's team by any means: winning 35 straight games is a great accomplishment no matter what conference a team is in, and I still believe that they deserved all of the praise that they got. Unfortunately for the Shockers, Kentucky was just a little bit better on this day. The thing that is most disappointing to me is that some people will remember the 2014 WSU Shockers as a team that was a product of a down conference and never should have had the spotlight in the first place. Because of that fact, I really feel for those kids who could have been remembered as a team that went to the Final Four and possibly beyond.
Best Game
Wichita State vs. Kentucky
This was a tough one to decide as there were so many great games to choose from in this tournament, but I decided that this one had the most drama. On one side we had an upstart program who was out to prove that it belonged with the best of them. On the other we had a legendary program who's tradition dates back decades, and was out to save what many have called a disappointing season. This alone makes for compelling television, but the game was exactly what makes college basketball great. This game went back and forth the whole way through, and Kentucky had several chances to put they game away late in the game. But the Shockers would not go away without a fight, and the game was not sealed until a 3 pointer shot by Fred VanVleet fell short. Kentucky will move on a face Louisville in the Sweet 16, and what a game that should be.
Best Story: Dayton
What a story. Dayton, Ohio is a town that has fallen on hard times in the past and doesn't have a lot to take pride in, but one thing that people from Dayton are proud of is their basketball team. Now, coach Archie Miller has guided Dayton to the sweet 16 for the first time since Regan was president. This scene on campus pretty much sums up why I think this has been the best story of the tournament so far.
What to watch for: Tennessee is on fire, and I am interested to see what happens when they take on Nick Stauskas and the #2 seeded Michigan Wolverines. Stanford vs. Dayton should be great as it is 2 Cinderella's battling against one another. Louisville vs. Kentucky is 2 historic rivals battling against each other for the 2nd time in March since 2012, so that says it all. All Sweet 16 games are interesting, but these are the ones that stick out to me.
That's all I got for today. Thanks for reading!
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