2008: A Year In Review N'at

2008 was an interesting year in Pittsburgh sports.

We saw the Penguins make an amazing run to the Stanley Cup Finals, the Steelers reach the playoffs, Pitt basketball win a Big East Title, Pitt Football going 9-3 and making the Sun Bowl, Penn State going 11-1 and missing the National Championship by 1 point, and of course, the Pirates sucked.

Some highlights:

- The first day of 2008 was one of the greatest in Penguins history and NHL history, as we watched the Winter Classic. The outdoor, snowy hockey game featuring the Penguins and the Buffalo Sabres was nothing short of a classic itself, as SId The Kid, "With the game on his stick," would bury a shootout goal to give the Penguins a 2-1 win in cold Buffalo, in front of 70,000+ fans.

- Soon after we saw an AFC Wild Card Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. After being down by 18 points, the Steelers rallied, taking the lead late in the game. But, due to two missed holding calls by the officials, David Garrard was able to scramble on 4th down to put the Jags in range for a field goal, which they made, winning the game.

- The Pitt Panthers finished their regular season with 9 losses. They entered the Big East tournament as the 7 seed out of 12 teams. Yet, they defeated the 10, 2, 6 and 1 seeds to win the Championship.

- 2008 also so the Steelers enter their regular season facing the hardest schedule known to date in NFL history. Yet, the Steelers went 12-4, while sporting the leagues #1 overall defense. For much of the year they were #1 across the board. They won games against the Ravens (twice), Jaguars, Redskins, Chargers, Patriots and Cowboys, all of whom are playoff teams this season or were playoff teams last season. They enter the playoffs with the #2 seed in the AFC.

- This Pirates season was special, wait, not it wasn't. The things to take away are the stingy Pirates management and the departure of Xavier Nady and Jason Bay. J-Bay went on to much better things, leading the Red Sox into the playoffs with some great play. The only real positive aspect about the season was that the Pirates won the season series against the Yankees, despite the ridiculousness of the Yankees salaries compared to the Pirates.

- The Penguins season continued on of course, leading to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they fell to the Detroit Red Wings in 6 games. Of course no one will forget game 5, with Detroit ready to celebrate, and Petr Sykora's game winning goal in triple overtime, after Max Talbot scored to send it there with less than a minute left in regulation. It was a monumental season, that won't be forgotten any time soon.

- The Penguins also said goodbye to Ryan Malone, Marian Hossa, Gary Roberts, Mark Recchi, Georges Laraque and others, while welcoming Ruslan Fedotenko, Miroslav Satan and others. The start to the new season has been rough, but the play of Evgeni Malkin has been promising, as he is on pace to record 130+ points, which hasn't been done since Mario Lemieux did it.

- Pitt football looked like they were going have another dreadful season when they fell to Bowling Green at Heinz Field in their first game. But the Panthers rallied, with some big wins at South Florida, at Notre Dame, against West Virginia as well as others. They went 9-3 and got invited to play in the Sun Bowl (today).


There were so many other great moments through the year, but I feel as if these were the best. Hopefully 2009 will be a little better. Maybe a Championship somewhere there, or two, but let's not get greedy... Good luck to the Burgh's sports teams in 2009.

NFL Wildcard Weekend Predictions 2009

NFC

5. Falcons over 4. Cardinals
-The Falcons are a very good team and are playing right now like they want to win it all. The Cardinals look like they've mailed it in. I don't see that offense being able to heat up again and win a playoff game, even if they are playing a rookie QB. The Cardinals will try to get back into the game late, but Michael Turner will be the difference and seal the deal.
-Falcons-31, Cardinals-20


6. Eagles over 3. Vikings
- The Eagles are hot right now after a big win to get in. The Viking don't have a true quarterback. I think this game will be very defensive, despite the fact that both teams boast two of the best runningbacks in the NFL. Donovan Mcnabb will make the plays necessary, and the Vikings won't. Both road teams in the NFC win their WC games.
- Eagles-23, Vikings-14
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AFC

5. Colts over 4. Chargers
- This may be the best game of the playoffs. The Chargers have an edge because they are at home. But, they don't have Peyton Manning. I could see this one going either way, but when it comes down to it, I can just picture Adam Vinatieri putting one through to win it for the Colts.
- Colts-23, Chargers-20


6. Ravens over 3. Dolphins
-While I am really tempted to pick Miami, I just don't see the Dolphins offense being able to break the Ravens defense. Pennington is a good quarterback, but I don't think he'll be able to play well against that rush. The real X-Factor will be Joe Flacco. If Joey Porter can get to him enough, Miami might pull it off. I don't think it'll happen though, Ravens move on.
- Ravens-17, Dolphins- 10
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So that's that. I picked all 4 road teams to win. But that's the flaw in the NFL playoff setup, the better teams sometimes have to go on the road and play teams that don't deserve the home game (See: Falcons @ Cardinals).

This will make for some great 2nd round matchups:

- Eagles @ Giants
- Falcons @ Panthers

- Ravens @ Titans
- Colts @ Steelers

That's some big time football right there. Any of those 8 teams there could win it all in my opinion. I think the AFC is particularly wide open. I think people want the Steelers @ Titans rematch. I don't know if it will happen, but it is a definite possibility.

The Not-So Triumphant Return and the NFL Playoffs

Well, I am back. After a very long, extended period of time off to cope with the struggles of school and life, I have decided to continue writing. To be honest, school was brutal this semester, and I had little motivation to write, but I now realize that this is something I have to do, so here I am.

But, this isn't Xanga. I'm not talking about life issues, I'm talking about sports, and most importantly, the NFL playoffs.

How is it that the Jets, Patriots, Cowboys, Seahawks, Packers, Buccaneers, Browns, Jaguars and Broncos failed to make the playoffs after their seasons last year and start to this season.

The Jets collapsed because of poor quarterback play. The Patriots probably deserve to be in at 11-5, especially with the 8-8 Chargers making it, but they aren't. The week 3 blowout loss to the Dolphins at home though has to be to blame. The Cowboys were as rollercoaster as it comes. They don't deserve to be in after that Week 17 performance against Philly. The Seahawks suffered from injury all season and were playing for a coach on his way out. The Packers had a weird season. They weren't awful statistically, but still lost a lot of games. The Bucs lost to the Raiders and aren't in the playoffs because of it. Wow. The Browns and Jaguars, two AFC preseason favorites were awful. The Browns had 20 yards passing in week 17 against Pittsburgh. The Broncos are a sad story. Good QB play was consistent, but having to put 7 runningbacks on IR really hurt this team, in addition to the empty space known as their defense (The Chargers averaged 45 points per game against them).

Let's talk about the teams that actually did make it, shall we?

NFC first (ladies first, just kidding),

6. The Eagles- I'm not sure that "by the skin of their teeth is the right wording," since they won their game to get in 44-6, but record wise that's about right, especially after tying Cincinnati and having Mcnabb get benched against the Ravens. They are hot though, and dangerous.

5. The Falcons- This is a dangerous team, which is odd to say after the season they had a year ago. Matt Ryan seems to be a leader and a good player for many years to come. But, rookie QB's usually have problems come January, so it'll be interesting to see how he responds.

4. The Cardinals- This team was soaring after their big win against Dallas, but recently it has been all downhill for the Cards, getting blown out by New England and Minnesota. Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin make this team dangerous, but other than that I don't see them doing a whole lot in the playoffs.

3. The Vikings- This is a team without a true QB, and that is a risky game to play come playoff time. Tavaris Jackson seems to be playing well, but Gus Ferotte has a lot more experience. With Adrian Peterson carrying the rock though they may be ok, as long as their defense plays well.

2. The Panthers- Carolina has been a big surprise to me this season. Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are a dynamic duo and with Steve Smith playing at his best this team won't lose, to anyone.

1. The Giants- the defending champs are doing what many teams aren't able to do after they win the Superbowl. Their running game is remarkable, and if they stay healthy I see it being rough for anyone to beat them in the playoffs. Their destiny will be decided by Eli Manning and his play.
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Now the AFC.

6. The Ravens- a very dangerous team right now. They whooped Dallas and crushed Jacksonville to end their season. They are running the ball as good as anyone and have a the defense to match. The key will be rookie QB Joe Flacco's play, because he's never seen the intensity of the NFL playoffs. The defense has though.

5. The Colts- maybe the most dangerous team in the NFl. Peyton Manning has been on fire and this is an experienced team. I wouldn't want to play them if I were anyone in the AFC. They have a defense that can hang with anyone as well.

4. The Chargers- at 8-8, this team maybe shouldn't even be in, but it's hard to argue that they haven't worked hard for it the last couple weeks. They have won 4 straight to get in and have a great passing and running game that could carry them far.

3. The Dolphins- what a turnaround from a year ago. This team has been remarkable. The Wildcat formation and the big time defense make this team a formidable opponent for any team. Chad Pennington will have to play better than he has ever played before for this team to make a run.

2. The Steelers- with the toughest schedule in NFL history coming in, it's remarkable that this team went 12-4. They were in every game that they lost, as well. If they are healthy and they learn to slow down the run and get back to the defensive form they were in a few weeks ago, this team could win it all. Ben Roethlisberger will have to perform if they want to win. When they won the Superbowl in 2005, Big Ben was stellar throughout the playoffs. Last year, he played poorly against the Jags and they were done after one game.

1. The Titans- this team has had a great season, going 13-3. They have a great defense and a fantastic running game. the Johnson-White combo could carry this team, but I think a lot will depend on how the veteran Kerry Collins plays at QB. Also, could their cockiness come back to haunt them? The Steelers hope so...

Steelers Game 7, Steelers-14, Giants- 21

Blah. The worst of scenario's played out.

Our best WR smoked weed and got busted. Our star RB won't play. We lost our long snapper. Our offensive line is thinner than Keira Knightley out there.

It was a game we should have won, could have won, but didn't.

Next up is the Washington Foreskins on Monday Night Football.
Steelers (5-2)... Redskins (6-2).

But they lost to the Rams and barely beat the Lions, so this is a winable game... right?
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Nice work with your spelling ESPN.

Disgusting

I hate Philadelphia.

Charlie Manual is weird.

Joe Maddon is a stand-up guy.

But...

Philly fans do not deserve a championship. When the losing team is congratulated on a great season, booing them is just an unreal and obnoxious thing to do.

They booed the commissioner of the MLB while he presented them a trophy.

UNBELIEVABLE.

You won a freaking championship and you are actually booing. If the Pirates won the World Series (highly unlikely), the last thing I would be thinking about doing is booing anyone.

But I guess that's why they are Philthadelphian's. Deplorable.

So, the the Phillies team and organization, I say "congrats." To the fans, I say "bite me, you don't deserve it and have some respect for the first time in your lives."

Steelers Game 6, Steelers-38, Bungals- 10

What was a tight game through 3 quarters quickly turned into a slaughter in a game that your's truly was in attendance.

10 hours of driving, sunburn, heckling Bungals fans, expensive parking, worth it.

Mewelde Moore was a stud, going off for 3 touchdowns. Big Ben threw a couple touches. Even Byron Leftwich had a touchdown pass.

Hines Ward broke some punks jaw. The Bengals are pissed. Get over it. Ward made a clean block with his shoulder on a defender trying to make a tackle.

Here are my personal pictures:

(So, while I'm getting gas in Oakland in the morning I look over and see the Oscar Meyer Weenie Mobile, I know it would be a good day.)




(This Bungal fan say's it all.)







(Ed Freaking Hochuli! Cool guy.)


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Wait for the end. "Because he got donked in the endzone!"
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This week the Steelers are FINALLY back at home to face the defending SuperBowl Champs, the New York Giants. The Giants are a great opponent. They have a physical defense, a good running attack, and a QB who can throw the ball all over the place. Last year they won 3 road games to get to the SuperBowl.

Sounds familiar.

Should be a good one. Maybe a classic.

Go Steelers.

Hopefully I'm Not Fined for Writing This

Time to rant.

In one week the Steelers received $45,000 worth of fines.

Unreal.

Nate Washington, Ryan Clark, Hines Ward and James Harrison were all fined.

To me, the NFL wants money. Actually, the NFL wants money.

So let me get this straight, guys can get arrested and take steroids and get 1 game suspensions and 4 game suspensions, yet if a guy steps over a defender he get's fined $5,000. Makes a lot of sense.

It is completely ridiculous what the NFL is doing. They are simply making an example of the Steelers to the rest of the NFL.

If I were Dan Rooney I would go after the NFL on this. TO do this to a team like the Steelers is just incredibly stupid. They have been having a good season and seem to have some momentum and this is doing nothing but causing a distraction.

Even humble ole quiet Troy Polamalu called what the NFL is doing as an attempt to make football a "pansy" game. Wonder how much he'll be fined?

And he is absolutely right.

The NFL isn't for sissies, it's not for the weak. Linebackers and defensive tackles are not kicker and punters. They hit hard and they talk smack. THAT'S THE GAME!

Get over it NFL. And if you can't people will eventually stop watching.
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On another note, the Penguins are struggling, yet they are still getting some wins. Tonight they have Ovechkin and the Caps. Should be a good one.

Let's Go Pens!
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I'll be traveling to Cincinnati for the first time this weekend to watch my beloved play.

Pics to come with recap on Monday.

Go Steelers!

Steelers Game 5, Steelers-26, Jaguars-21

It was quite possibly the biggest won for the Steelers organization since 2005.

The Jaguars have become a thorn in the Steelers iron side.

But there would be redemption.

After starting the game by throwing a 72 yard pick-6, Ben Roethlisberger rallied his troops, and fought with all his heart to defeat the team that eliminated the Steelers from the playoffs last January.

The Steelers knew going in things would be tough.



A decimated (and horrible) offensive line, one running back that had seen game time this season and an injured marshmallow-of-a-man named Hampton (above).

It didn't matter.

Why?



Because of #7.

I have always been quick to criticize Ben Roethlisberger, saying that he was a jerk and that he held onto the ball too long.

Both of those may be true. But you can't argue with the fact that he has a will to win like none other, and that's something that every QB in the NFL needs. He keeps fighting through the fact that he is getting killed every three times he drops back and perseveres. There is something to be said of that.



But don't think that the win simply falls on Big Ben's 309 yards passing and 3 touchdowns. Players stepped up. Nate Washington (above), Mewelde Moore, Gary Russel, Lamaar Woodley and Heath Miller all played huge roles in the game. Not to mention Hines Ward, who was just Hines Ward.

On top of it all, the Steelers stopped Fred Taylor and MJD, who normally kill them.
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Now the Steelers are 4-1 heading into the Bye Week. That's a lot better than 3-2, or even 2-3, which is where we could be. If not for a couple of plays in the Cleveland game we could be 1-4. We keep winning close games. That's a good thing and a bad thing. Let's not forget that the Steelers started 4-1 last season as well. At one point they were 9-3. They finished 10-7.

I'm hesitant to say the Steelers are an elite team, but I definitely think they have an elite QB and a great defense. Those two are a great component for success.

Time to rest up boys, you need it. The schedule gets only tougher from here on out.

We still have the Giants, Redskins, Colts, Chargers, Patriots, Cowboys, Ravens, and Titans left on the schedule. As well as Cleveland and CIncinnati.
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Yinz Luv 'Da Stillers and 'Guins vids are great.

Big Day for the 'Burgh N'at (and more)

Coming off a stunning Thursday night win for the Pitt Panthers, Pittsburgh will celebrate its 250th Birthday tonight.

Congrats Pittsburgh.

Motion City Soundtrack and Saves the Day will be performing a concert in Oakland by the Cathedral today. ($10 for non-Pitt students, free for those idiots.) Starts at 1 with some local bands. I'm sure everyone will be too hungover to attend at 1.

Tonight, the City is shooting off a crap-load of fireworks. If you are going downtown, you will be able to see fireworks being launched from 17 different spots.

There is a bunch of other stuff going on too today, just check like KDKA.com or the PG's site for details.

BUT...

If you do one thing today, you will be back in heaven at 2:30 this afternoon.

(Nice pic, ESPN.com)

Pens...Sens. From Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeden.

FSN's got it. I think NHL.com might too or something.

But try to get down to the arena and watch it. Free parking and admission, what more could you ask for. I'll hopefully be there, pending my roomate waking up some time this week.

All in all things are looking good for today. Especially if the Pens get a win.
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Here is the "and more":

I have somewhat of a weakness for High School Football. I love it. My high school didn't have a football team, so it sucked. So we would go other places and watch games with our friends from other schools.

Me, I had a couple friends who went to Gateway SHS. So I became interested somewhat in Gators football.

This year, Gateway is unreal. And by unreal, I mean wow.

Last night they won 42-0, with their RB going for 307 yards and 4 TD's on 19 carries. Geeze.

Get this:

The Gateway Gators are now 6-0, while outscoring their opponents 278 to 38 in those 6 games.

That's an average of 46.3 to 6.3 per game.

They are ranked in the top 10 in the country and should be favorites to win the PIAA Championship.
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So I'm about to go and hopefully enjoy a great Pittsburgh day.

Chills up the Spine

MLB Playoff Predictions

The Pirates suck.

Here's my prediction for the 2008 MLB Playoffs.

(Let me refer everyone to my Post Predicting the NBA Playoffs)

Here goes:

==ALDS==

- Boston Red Sox over Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
(Is that still what the Angels are freaking called?) The Sox are my team. They know how to win and have done well in the playoffs against the Angels. Plus I think the Angels are overrated.


- Chicago White Sox over Tampa Rays
I will be rooting for the Rays a lot this postseason, unless they play the Red Sox. They had an amazing year, giving even the most hopeless fans (Pirate fans) reason to believe.



==NLDS==

- Los Angeles Dodgers over Chicago Cubs
I don't think the Cubs will ever win a World Series. Plus they don't have Manny.


- Philadelphia Phillies over Milwaukee Brewers
Unless C.C. is on the hill, the Brewers are just a little better than average.
_________________________________________________________________


==ALCS==

- Boston Red Sox over Chicago White Sox
A battle of the Sox will be entertaining, but those who wear Red are just a better team.



==NLCS==

- Los Angeles Dodgers over Philadelphia Phillies
This will be the best series of the Playoffs, I see the Dodgers in 6.
_________________________________________________________________

==World Series==

-Boston Red Sox over Los Angeles Dodgers
I called Lakers/Celtics, because it's what the NBA wanted to see. The MLB would love Manny playing his former team, Joe Torre playing his former rival. I think it will happen, but the Sox win it in 5 games and repeat, becoming one of the best dynasties in MLB history. LA vs. Boston, round 2. Boston continues it's dominance.

My NFL Superbowl prediction will be the Patriots vs. the..... oooooh that's right.... (Raiders!)





Not.

Steelers Game 4, Steelers- 23, Ravens- 20 (OT)

(Kevin Greene is so sick. Jason GIldon looks like he could still play.)

After taking a day off from blogging for my birthday, I have returned.

Things keep getting worse as they get better. We have lost Rashard Mendenhall and Kendall Simmons for the season. We have one healthy running back that has seen game action this year on our squad. Our O-Line just potentially lost their best player and they sucked as it was.

That's the bad news.

The good news. We're 3-1. We lead the division. We overcame adversity. Our QB stood up at the half and called out his teammates like a true leader. We were down 10, came back, and won a physical game.

Lamarr Wooooooooodley is a man. So is James Harrison. Name me a better OLB duo in the NFL right now. I don't think you will.




The Steelers played worse than I have ever seen them play offensively in the first half. We had pretty much no running game and not much of a passing game but still won.

Let me say this:

Great teams win games even when they play their worst. And that was what we did.

And Jeff Reed is awesome. One of the best kickers in the NFL.
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The Penguins- America's Team.

That title seems to be appropriate. I can't think of an American based hockey team with a more solid fan-base than the Penguins.
You have to look at Minnesota obviously as being up there as well and maybe a couple other knuckleheads too.
But what the Penguins have done to American hockey and hockey in the Pittsburgh area in the last couple years in simply remarkable. They have taken a sport that was dead in the water and turned it into the biggest story this town had seen in a couple years (Steelers XL run).

You fell in love with them. You watched the games for the first time in your life maybe. You learned how to pronounce names like Sykora, Ruutu, Laraque and Dupuis.

You used nicknames that are used between players, such as Sarge, Geno, Kid, Sykie, Gronk and Bugsy.

Let me make this clear, I love the Steelers. They are my pride and joy and if there were a Steelers game on and a Pens game on at the same time, I would watch the Steelers. (Well actually I would use PIP, but thats another story.)

But, the Penguins did something to me last year that I can't even begin to explain. My sports hurt was more severe than it has ever been after we lost Game 6 in the SCF.

But, when Sykora burried that goal in the 3rd OT in game 5, I realized why I love hockey and the Penguins... Addiction.

I began to be addicted to the Penguins. I spent HUNDREDS (nearly a thousand) of dollars to go to games 1 & 5 against the Rangers and games 2 & 4 against the Flyers. I drove nearly 6 hours to see the Penguins play. I bought a Laraque shirt. I bought a flag for my car.

Best of all, I spent around 14 hours making this:



And around 2 months growing one of these:

(This picture received one of the greatest facebook comments ever.)





The Pensblog began to thrive into (in my opinion, which is fact) the best blog on the web.

They were pulling down over 400 comments on posts. Huge. I go ape if I get one comment (see: my ESPY's review).


And here is another season, already. I still taste that bitter defeat and remember far too vividly how deep my head was burried in my friends couch when the clock hit zero's for the last time. But yet I want to put myself in a situation to experience that again.

Saturday can't come soon enough.


Let's Go Pens!

NFL 2008 Week 4 Predictions

Tennessee over Minnesota
Denver over Kansas City
New Orleans over San Francisco
New York Jets over Arizona
Green Bay over Tampa Bay
Carolina over Atlanta
Jacksonville over Houston
Cleveland over Cincinnati
San DIego over Oakland
Buffalo over St. Louis
Washington over Dallas*
Philadelphia over Chicago
Pittsburgh over Baltimore
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*- Upset Special Pick

NFL Top 10 Power Ranking 2008- Week 4

1. Dallas Cowboys (3-0): The Cowboys looked very good on Sunday night, handling the previously unbeaten Packers at Lambeau.
2. Philadelphia Eagles (2-1): Oof, now the defense looks good.
3. New York Giants (3-0): Now if only the 'Skins could play, they would complete the top 4.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-1): They need to take a note from the Penguins and overcome adversity.
5. San Diego Chargers (1-2): Boy, this team should be 3-0, for multiple reasons.
6. Denver Broncos (3-0): The offense has been untouchable... maybe the NFL's best.
7. Tennessee Titans (3-0): They continue to rack up wins, even without their "star" QB.
8. Buffalo Bills (3-0): Impressive so far, but barely squeaking by Oakland brings them down a bit.
9. Baltimore Ravens (2-0): #1 defense in the league means they have to be on the list.
10. Green Bay Packers (2-1): Maybe I'm being a little harsh, but losing Al Harris will really hurt them.

Steelers Game 3, Steelers-6, Eagles-15

Well, they said our offensive line was our weakest part, and boy were they right.

Absolutely disgraceful.

9 sacks later the Steelers were beat up and losers of a very winnable game.

Now they must face life without running back Willie Parker and defensive tackle Casey Hampton, who were injured against the Eagles.

Now, Rashard Fumblehall must carry the load Monday night against the Ravens and their #1 ranked defense.

Hopefully Mendenhall will prove a lot of doubters wrong and left the Steelers to victory.

I don't even want to post pictures or video's right now. If you want them, go get them.

NFL Top 10 Power Ranking 2008- Week 3

Last week was an exciting one. The Steelers won a big divisional battle and so did the Cowboys, keeping both teams in the same spots as last week.

So here goes:

1. Dallas Cowboys (2-0): The Cowboys had a tough time on Monday night, but Romo's offense held on to get the W.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0): The Steelers were a much better football team than the Browns Sunday night, but were hindered by the weather.
3. Green Bay Packers (2-0): Two words: Aaron Rodgers.
4. New York Giants (2-0): Defense, Defense, Eli, Defense.
5. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1): The Eagles gave the 'Boys a great fight, but stupid mistakes made them lose the game.
6. Denver Broncos (2-0): They shouldn't have won, but they still did, and looked very good throughout the game. Need to improve on defense though.
7. New England Patriots (2-0): The Cassel-Era began with a W, moving the Pats to their second win.
8. Indianapolis Colts (1-1): The Colts still don't look very good, but were able to turn it on to beat the Vikings on the road.
9. Buffalo Bills (2-0): The Bills continued to fly under the radar by beating a very talented Jaguars team.
10. Tennessee Titans (2-0): The not-so-Young Titans took care of business against the lowly Bengals.

Steelers Game 2, Steelers-10, Browns-6

The Steelers and Browns fought through the remnants of Hurricane Ike to play a thrilling Sunday Night game at which yours truly was in attendance.

The real story of the game was the insane weather and the defense on display by either team.

The game was slow to start until Ben Roethlisberger hit Hines Ward in the endzone to put the Steelers up.
The Steelers would add a field goal and control the ball, thanks to a solid performance by Willie Parker, Ward, Roethlisberger and Santonio Holmes.

The strangest part of the game came when Browns coach Romeo Crennel opted to kick a field goal with less than 4 minutes left in the game to cut the Steelers lead to 4. The Steelers would pick up the necessary first downs to run the clock down. The Browns would have one last shot at scoring and winning the game but came up short to give the Steelers the win.
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Here's some of my personal pictures from the game:








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Next week the Steelers take on the newly improved Philadelphia Eagles. This should be an intense matchup, as both teams hail from this great state of ours and represent cities who have serious hatred for each other.

NFL 2008 Week 2 Predictions

- Green Bay over Detroit
- Kansas City over Oakland
- New York Giants over St. Louis Rams
- Indianapolis over Minnesota
- Cincinnati over Tennessee
- New Orleans over Washington
- Carolina over Chicago
- Buffalo over Jacksonville
- Seattle over San Francisco
- Atlanta over Tampa Bay
- New York Patriots over New England Patriots
- Arizona over Miami
- San Diego over Denver
- Pittsburgh over Cleveland
- Dallas over Philadelphia

NFL Top 10 Power Ranking 2008- Week 2

I didn't want to do a preseason power rank article because it's so hard to figure out who will be good this year and who will tank. Glad I made that call. This is what my PR would have looked like just 1 week ago.

1. New England Patriots
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. San Diego Chargers
4. Dallas Cowboys
5. New York Giants
6. Jacksonville Jaguars
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Seattle Seahawks
9. Cleveland Browns
10. Tennessee Titans


Ha! Wow. Glad I didn't post that.

So here are my new 'Top 10'.
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1. Dallas Cowboys (1-0): The 'Boys looked incredible in a hostel environment in Cleveland, boosting them up to my new #1.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0): It's hard to deny that the Steelers are not a very good football team. And with questionable play from other AFC teams, they now look like the new team to chase.

3. New York Giants (1-0): The defense is so good, even without all its stars.

4. Philadelphia Eagles (1-0): Sure, they beat down the lowly Rams, but they did it in an impressive way. Week 3: Steelers @ Eagles. Whoa. Big time.

5. San Diego Chargers (0-1): Shocker. They stay in the top 5 because I think that Carolina is a better team than people think.

6. New Orleans Saints (1-0): The Saints are so fast offensively, but need to answer the call with the loss of WR Marques Colston.

7. New England Patriots (1-0): They won the game but lost the battle. Matt Cassel now actually has to do something. Should be interesting. Still a good team though.

8. Green Bay Packers (1-0): AR is the real deal in my opinion. I have said that all along. The Pack are a talented team with a lot of emotion.

9. Indianapolis Colts (1-0): Outside of Cincinnati, this was the worst showing last week. Especially since they got nailed by the Bears. They are better than that though, and will improve.

10. Tennessee Titans (1-0): Losing Vince Young may be a good thing. He seems to be a little unstable mentally at QB, which has been a problem of his all along.

Steelers Game 1- Steelers-38, Texans-17

(Great Moments)



The Steelers entered their first game of the regular season with a lot of questions.
- Could Ben Roethlisberger continue to shine at QB?
- Could Willie Parker bounce back from a broken leg?
- Could the aging defense keep up with the rest of the league?
- Would the highly questionable offensive line be able to protect Big Ben?

The Steelers answered all these questions in blowout fashion.

(At some point I want to get some sort of highlight reel going on here... we'll see.)

But here is the scoring summary:

(Courtesy of ESPN.com)
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(Willie Parker shined, totaling 138 yards on 25 carries and scoring 3 times.)

(Ben Roethlisberger managed the offense, completing 13 of 14 passes for 137 yards and 2 scores, both to Hines Ward. Ben also showed good mobility, busting off a big 17 yard run on the Steelers first scoring drive.)

(James Harrison showed why he made the ProBowl last season, racking up 9 tackles (7 solo), 3 sacks, and a forced fumble.)

(The O-Line held up well. Ben got sacked a couple times but they were great in the run-block.)

The defense as a whole played well through the first 3 quarters, but let up a bit in the 4th, allowing 14 points in the final 9 minutes of the game. Thankfully the game was already sealed at that point.
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I have to talk about the injury to Tom Brady. Let me start by saying that I do not like Tom Brady. I am a Steeler fan and therefore I wish the utmost failure to Brady and the Patriots.

But.

I'm not sure it's right for people to be cheering that Brady got injured. Think about if that were to happen to Big Ben, or the best player on whatever team you root for.

When Sidney Crosby went down, the people who cheered were Flyers fans... do we want to be like that? No.

While I am happy that Tom Brady won't be around this year, I never really want to wish injury, or cheer for injuries to any player.

Now, if the Pats don't have a good season, their fans will have an excuse to use for every loss, no matter how well Matt Cassel plays.
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Next week I will make the annual trip to Cleveland. This one is huge. Primetime, night game, in Cleveland. The Browns lost this past week so you know they want some payback. Photo's will be posted (if things go well) and maybe some video's as well. Stay tuned.
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(Photo's courtesy of ESPN and Steelers.com)

NFL 2008 Outlook (AFC)

FInally a look at the AFC. (Aka my internet has been installed!)


-West-



This division will be more competitive than most people think. I really like the Chargers chances at winning it all, but it will no doubt be a tough trip. THe Broncos and Jay Cutler have a chance at competing this year in the division. I think it's division title or bust for this division. No Wild Cards. The Raiders now have potential at Running Back, with the drafting of Darren McFadden. FInally the Chiefs will be much improved after coming off with the best draft class this season, unfortunately it won't be enough.

1. San Diego Chargers
2. Denver Broncos
3. Oakland Raiders
4. Kansas City Chiefs


-South-



Maybe the most competitive division in the AFC, the AFC South sported 3 playoff teams last year. This year I don't know if they will get that lucky. A lot of people are picking the Jaguars, but I'm not sold on them quite yet. I think the Colts are the class of the division and with a great QB and a young, fresh back running the ball, I think the Colts have the division. The Jaguars will be close behind and might win the division. I just don't think they have the big time players to win the division, but not having that has kinda been the source of their success recently. Also competing for the division will be the Tennessee TItans. Rookie Running Back Chris Johnson looks like a good fit with Lendale White. Now the team is in the hands of Vince Young, who has some proving to do. Rounding out the division are the Houston Texans, who have some talent on both sides of the ball, but probably won't have what it takes in this tough division.

1. Indianapolis Colts
2. Jacksonville Jaguars
3. Tennessee Titans
4. Houston Texans


-East-



It's no wonder who the winner will be in the division. The Pats were amazing last year, to put it simply. I don't think they will be as good this year, but at the same time I think they will do fine and easily win the division. Coming in second will be the Buffalo Bills. I think the Bills are a very good, young team with a lot of potential. Competing for second will be Brett Favre and the New York Jets, who have made big strides to be able to compete this season. Rounding out the division will be the Miami Dolphins. The 'Fins won't be as bad as they were last season, but still won't be very good.

1. New England Patriots
2. Buffalo Bills
3. New York Jets
4. Miami Dolphins


-North-



Ah, my favorite division. A division known for toughness and rivalry. I still think the Steelers are the best team, even though the Browns are on the rise. I think that with a great defense, running and passing game, the Steelers are on pace the win the division. The Browns will get second. They have a lot of talent with Derek Anderson, Braylon Edwards and Kelen Winslow. They have great lines and could compete for the division title. The Ravens are a pretty young team offensively, and a pretty old team defensively. Because of this they will come in third. All that talent, and I see the Bengals coming in last. There are too many distractions on this team, no real running game and a weak defense will all lead to another disappointing year in Cincy.

1. Pittsburgh Steelers
2. Cleveland Browns
3. Baltimore Ravens
4. Cincinnati Bengals

PS Game 4- Steelers 19, Panthers 16

I'm just happy there was no OT.

But anyways, Thursday night the Steelers came in with a couple things in mind: stay healthy and look to trim down the roster. For the most part both of those goals came through.

I'm back again with the likes and dislikes. (I'm thinking about stopping this feature for the regular season.)

Here goes...
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===Likes===


THE BIG NASTY D
- I am more and more impressed with this defense every time I see them take the field. Their abilities to stop drives and hold teams to field goals could come in handy during the regular season.

WILLIE PARKER



- Willie didn't see a lot of action, but he had 4 carries for 34 yards, including a great 26 yard rush. There is no doubt that with Rashard Mendenhall and Willie Parker, the Steelers will have the best 1-2 punch in the NFL, right up there with Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor of the Jaguars.

OFFENSIVE LINE



- Other than the fumbled snap on the opening drive, I thought the line held up well. They allowed 0 sacks and gave the QB's time to throw. Thats all you can ask for.

JEFF REED



- He missed one. But he hit 4, including the game winner (again). He is just solid and has been all preseason.



===DIslikes===

QUARTERBACK



- I wasn't to impressed with anyone at QB. Ben didn't even throw a pass. Maybe that was for the best. He needs to stay healthy.

SECONDARY



- It wasn't too bad. They forced 2 INT's, but let up 264 yards passing. That needs to improve.

FINISHING
- The trend of the preseason continued, as the offense was unable to finish their drives, resulting in 5 FG attempts. Thats a possible 35 points instead of the 12 that we got.
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All in all it wasn't too bad of a game. Arnold Harrison fell victim to injury but thats the nature of the beast that is football.

The team looks ready for the Texans on Sunday, lets hope they pull it out. It's important that they start the season well because the first few games will be their easiest.

PS Game 3- Steelers 12, Vikings 10

The third preseason game is always the most interesting. The starters typically play at least a half and the offenses tend to open up a bit more.

The Steelers/Vikings game Saturday night was one of the most interesting preseason games I have ever seen.
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Here are the likes and dislikes:

===Likes===

THE FIRST TEAM DEFENSE
-I thought they held Adrian Peterson in a big time way. He didn't have a single run over 6 yards.

BYRON LEFTWICH
-I thought Leftwich played great in the second half, leading the Steelers down the field to win the game.

JEFF REED
-Yet again J-Reed proved he is a big time kicker in this league, booting 4 FG's including the game winner from 47 yards (it would have been good from 60).

FANS
-Our fans stuck around til the end of a preseason game. Solid.

HALF OF MENDENHALLS GAME
-Despite the 2 fumbles, Mendenhall ran with power and speed.

COACHING
-I loved what Tomlin did at the end by doing a situational practice of a last-second FG attempt.

===Dislikes===

THE FIRST TEAM OFFENSE
-3 point in the first half. Willie Parker had a tough time and Big Ben was running for his life all night. Fortunately though, the Vikings defensive front is the best we will face this season... hopefully.

BIG BEN
-He looked a little out of touch with his receivers. He was able to use some good footwork to get out of some bad situations though.

NOT FINISHING
-If we would have finished our drives this would have been a blowout. Jeff Reed has 7 FG's in 3 games.

THE OTHER HALF OF MENDENHALL'S GAME
-2 fumbles really put the team in bad spots. He needs to learn how to run and wrap the ball at the same time.
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In closing, I want to talk about rashard Mendenhall a little more.

I thought this was the perfect game for 'Shard. Not only was he able to run hard and find holes, but he fumbled twice. The fumbles are a good thing. Here is why:

- It's better that he did it now instead of later. Who cares if we lose a preseason game.. it's about learning. Now Mendenhall can learn how to run and protect the ball better. He won't be able to overpower NFL players like he could at Illinois and now he knows that.

NFL 2008 Outlook (NFC)

I was going to do both divisions, but I didn't.


-West-

(Matt Hasselbeck says "Got Rings? I don't!)

I still think that the Seahawks are the team to beat. They have more of a running game with Julius Jones and still have a solid QB in Matt Hasslebeck. Although, I do think that Arizona will make a good push (see: last years Browns) and contend for at least the WIld Card spot, if not a division title. The Rams and 49ers are still teams with potential but I just don't see either team having what it takes to contend in this division.

1. Seattle Seahawks
2. Arizona Cardinals
3. St. Louis Rams
4. San Francisco 49ers


-South-

(Reggie Bush and Ray-J's leftovers.)

This is one of the least impressive divisions in football. I think though that the Saints will take it this season. Drew Brees will be himself and with weapons like Marques Coleston and Reggie Bush, the Saints will be in good shape offensively. If anyone is going to contend it is going to be the Bucaneers, who won the division last season. I think that the Bucs have a great shot to win the division with Jeff Garcia and Ernest Graham leading the way. The Falcons are turning the corner and getting over the dog-killer it seems, which is 100% a good thing. Matt Ryan looks like he can compete in this league. The Panthers are a ways off from the playoffs in my opinion, but still have good weapons in Steve Smith and Dwayne Jarrett for QB Jake Delhomme to throw to.

1. New Orleans Saints
2. Tampa Bay Bucaneers
3. Carolina Panthers
4. Atlanta Panthers


-East-

(The Jersey says it all. *Plaease see bottom.)

Maybe the best division in football sports the NFC's best team, the Dallas Cowboys. The 'Boys will win this division, but it won't be easy. They have a tough schedule and play great opponents in their division. The division also sports the Superbowl Champs from last season, the New York Giants. The G-Men are not going to repeat, but they should be competitive enough to sneak into the playoffs again. The Philadelphia Eagles are a team on the rise. Again being led by Donavan McInjury and Brian Westbrook, the Eagles are poised to potentially turn the corner this season and make a playoff run. FInally there is the Washington Redskins who finished their season strong last year and would like to continue their excellent performance into this season. Questions at QB though will keep them out of the playoffs this season in my opinion.

1. Dallas Cowboys
2. New York Giants
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. Washington Redskins

-North-

(No jokes... he's just a beast.)

Ah yes, the division without a QB. Aaron Rodgers WILL step up this season and take over where Favre left off. I think Rodgers is a very good player and will handle the pressure fine for the Packers, leading them to a division title. Coming in at a close second place will be the Vikings. The Vikings will get big time play by Adrian Peterson, but since they play the Giants Week 17 and the Packers play the Lions, I give the division to the Pack. The big question will be Tarvaris Jackson at QB for the Vikings. Rounding out the division are the Lions and the Bears. I think both teams will have decent records, but with no real great QB's or RB's, I don't see them going too far.

1. Green Bay Packers
2. Minnesota Vikings
3. Detroit Lions
4. Chicago Bears
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*-I am in no way homophobic or a hater of gay people. I just hate Tony Romo.