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No, this is not a typo. I might have taken the post title from The Number 23, but 27 happens to be a much more significant number. While I might be a Yankees fan, it has been 8 long years since myself and my fellow Yankee fans have witnessed a championship. While some of you might consider me selfish for thinking eight years is a long time (Sorry Cubbies-100+ years), I prefer to think of it as expecting greatness. As a Yankees fan I have come to expect the playoffs. However, last year was very important season to me. It was the first time since I was four years old (1994 strike season) that the Yankees were not in the playoffs. 1993 if you count that in ’94 they were in first place when the strike happened. So, I have been around to witness some rather incredible consistency. The reason it was in some way important that the Yanks missed the playoffs, or I should say what I got from it because I wished they maded it: It taught me how much of a fan of the game I am. I watched every playoff game I could and every World Series game played. I love baseball and would go see any two teams play in any stadium because I love the game. It also taught me that you can’t be a real fan until you respect the game when your team is no longer involved in it. However, I have still come to this conclusion that the post-season without the Yankees is like my birthday without me.
So, come on, ask me those questions you’re dying to ask:
Q: I’ve heard that you are not from New York, why a Yankees fan? Fair weather fan?
A: Unfortunately that is correct. I am not from the Big Apple, but I was born in New Jersey? Ha, I grew up mostly in Northern Virginia. To my defense, my father’s side of the family is from New York so like most children, the sports fanhood runs in the family. Even though my dad is a Mets fan, as a young child I was a Yankees fan. In a more thorough defense of myself, I am most definately not a fair weather fan. I love the Yankees and I have an unbelieveable passion for them as I always will. However, I also have that same intense passion for the New York Jets(NFL). The Jets are consistently below average, unfortunately, and I still love them and wouldn’t trade them for anything. They have only 1 championshp (1-0 at least) and only 12 playoff appearances in over 40 years! Fortunately, I have been alive for half of their appearances, but they have only led to disappointment.
Q: Do you think the Yankees “bought” their championship?
A: To an extent, yes. Surely they went out last post-season and spent a quarter of a billion dollars on three players. While this may be absurd, every owner in Major League Baseball is a business man and wants to make money. George Steinbrenner wants to win and will do whatever it takes to put his team in position to do so. The Yankees may be on the path towards hurting the parody in baseball, however, it is the MLB’s fault for not taking action to stop them. Until Major League Baseball does something to stop the Yankees from buying all these all-stars, I just can’t see anything wrong with it. For one reason, other teams have the same opportunity. The reason players come to NY is to win a championship — End of story.
These two questions are the ones that I find to be the most common that are asked to me. If there is anything else you would like my opinion on feel free to comment. Oh, and get ready for The Number 28. It’s coming up faster than you think. Bet on it.
Rodgers That
It is a Wednesday night in early November and the Washington Wizards are hoping for a better season than last (19-63). Gilbert Arenas is back and healthy; however, the Wizards can’t help but get bit by the injury bug as Antawn Jamison is out for the first 10 or so games of the season. Andray Blatche has come in at the power forward to replace him in the mean time. While Jamison is clearly the better offensive player, Blatche brings a strong defensive presence to the floor that the Wizards lack with Jamison in the lineup. Blatche is receiving starter’s minutes with Jamison out and does have some potential on the offensive side of the ball. He averages 16.0 points-per-game, setting his career high on Halloween against New Jersey putting up 30 points in a 19 point Wizards victory.
Now that we have a bit of background on the Wizards we’ll talk about the Heat game. Upon Mike and mine’s arrival in D.C. we get to out seats about 15 minutes before game time. A girl and her camera man approach us and ask to put us on the JumboTron before the game. Obviously we agree and at the conclusion of the interview the girl offers us FLOOR SEATS! Unreal, yes I know. However, after we get down to the floor with a bunch of fans cheering for us, we are lead to our seats which are located in the 100-level section. Unfortunate, yes I am aware. Well, 100-level seats are good enough and we were damn close to the action.
The Wiz got off to an extremely slow start and the Heat most definitely capitalized. Miami was up 27-8 with 3:30 left in the first quarter, but the Wizards were able to cut the 19 Miami lead to 14 at the end of the first. The second quarter was all about Washington climbing back from the early deficit. Washington showed some signs of life as the cut the lead to nine and trail by single digits at the half. The Wizards owned the third quarter as they rallied behind Arenas’ 11 points in the quarter. Somehow, the Wizards started playing defense and outscored the Heat by nine in the quarter to tie the game going into the forth.
Even though Washington showed a lot of heart coming from a large first quarter deficit, the story of this game was Dwayne Wade and not capitalizing on Miami’s mistakes. The crucial momentum shift in this game was actually with :44 remaining in the game. It was tied at 89-89 and Stevenson steals the ball and drives to the hoop. He is unable to convert but does draw a foul. He missed both free throws and then Wade went right down the court to hit the go-ahead jumper with 24.9 seconds to go. Washington is unable to tie the game on their opportunity and has to foul. That was all she wrote as Miami stole one on the road, 93-89.
Washington Stat Line:
Arenas: 32 points, 3 assists
Haywood: 16 points, 11 rebounds
Butler: 13 points, 10 rebounds
Miami Stat Line:
Wade: 40 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds
Richardson: 19 points, 9 rebounds
Haslem: 13 points, 7 rebounds
The Wizards have no chance at the playoffs this season, especially considering Mike Miller went down with a shoulder injury in the fourth quarter, if they can’t consistently produce points. Arenas can’t be the whole offense and the team is lacking in the assist department (15). This team better get their act together if they want to fight in an Eastern Division that lacks in quality depth once you get past the big three (Orlando, Boston, Cleveland). Best of luck to them. Who knows, maybe the Wiz can get through this season without a devastating injury, oh wait, Jamison and Miller. My bad.
Rodgers That
After every week in the NFL I will be doing a new segment called “The Down and The Dirty”. It will consist of two players that have surprised the NFL that week. One player will be recognized for their poor performance, “The Down”, and the other for their impressive performance, “The Dirty”. Unfortunately, we will be starting this segment a bit late and our first week will be Week Eight of the NFL season.
NFL Week Eight
‘The Down’
QB Kurt Warner was 27 of 46 for 242 yards. He also threw for
2 TDs and 5 INTs in a Cardinals 34-21 loss to the Seahawks.
This award was a bit tougher to hand out due to the fact that so many players deserved to be in the discussion. However, looking at the big picture, Kurt Warner easily had the most shameful week. Even though he wasn’t as absolutely atrocious as Derek Anderson, Kurt Warner is on the Arizona Cardinals. Warner threw for 27 of 46 for 242 and 2 TDs. Oh, forgot to mention his five (5) interceptions. Kurt Warner, the quarterback for the defending NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals threw five picks. The main reason he won the award is because much better is expected of him, and five interceptions for anyone is unacceptable.
Honorable Mentions:
QB Derek Anderson (CLE) – 6 of 17 for 76 yards and 2 INTs
QB David Garrard (JAX) – 14 of 27 for 139 yards and 2 INTs
RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) – 11 for 27 yards
RB Mike Bell (NO) – 17 for 49 yards 1 FUM
‘The Dirty’
RB Maurice Jones-Drew had 177 yards on 8 attempts. He also
had 2 TD runs in a Jaguars 30-13 loss to the Titans.
Maurice Jones-Drew, hands down, wins this week’s “The Dirty” award due to his 177 yards on only eight (8) carries. Yes, that’s right MJD averaged 22.1 yards-per-carry; an absolutely astonishing number. Not to mention, he had two touchdowns to go along with it. Some people might disagree with MJD receiving this award compared to Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans, however, Johnson had more opportunities (24 attempts) so it is a safe assumption that if MJD had more tries he would have easily broken Johnson’s 228 yards.
Honorable Mentions:
RB Chris Johnson (TEN) – 24 for 228 yards and 2 TDs
RB Ryan Moats (HOU) – 23 for 126 yards and 3 TDs
QB Brett Favre (MIN) – 17 of 28 for 244 yards and 4 TDs
WR Reggie Wayne (IND) – 12 for 147 yards and 1 TD
Rodgers That
Okay, Rodgers here, and I want to apologize to my future fans for taking such a ridiculous amount of time off writing and I will do my best to keep up with it. Recently, I have been reading numerous posts about my beloved Jets on www.profootballtalk.com (great site), and people have been trash talking the hell out of them. I am not very happy with this, particularly Pats fans saying how much the Jets suck and we can’t beat them etc. First, I would like to point out that even if the Jets can’t win at home against the Pats, last season they did put on an impressive showing in Foxboro. Jets 34 Pats 31 Final-OT. Okay, before you make excuses I already know what you’re all going to say: “Well, that was with Matt and not Tom and we still almost beat you.” My response to that is: “You gotta beat a team when they’re down or you’ll never beat ‘em when they’re up.”
Now shush because you know I’m right.
To stand up for our new coach, Rex Ryan, he is not trying to talk trash or anything of the sort. He is only trying to make a good impression and give the team a tough mentality. He wants people to know that the Jets are there to win games and nothing else. He is not trash talking and saying they will beat everyone, he is just conveying the type of mentality that every coach should have. The 2009 season should be an interesting one, but I couldn’t be more excited for it…
Rodgers That
San Francisco @ Arizona – MNF
I do not see San Fran keeping this too close. So for all of you who took the Cards to cover this week (-9.5), I think you are in great position to win this one. Even though the Cards don’t have too much of a defense and I love Frank Gore and his down hill power running style; the 49ers are one dimensional given their lack of ability to move the ball in the air (~200 yards per game). The Cards explosive pass offense with Fitz and Boldin, as mentioned above, and power running game with Edge and rookie Tim Hightower (7 rush td’s, where did that come from?). Anyway, given this is a divisional game, you should assume it would be relatively close, but I say a late touchdown by San Fran makes it look closer than it is.
Rodgers’ Pick: Arizona 37 San Francisco 23
The 49ers are not showing much promise with the way their playing right now. That team is in a bit of turmoil right now and I am looking forward to seeing who new head coach mike Singletary will kick off the field this week. On the other side, the Cardinals have the 1st rated scoring offense in the NFL. Kurt Warner is playing like a true veteran and getting the ball to the real playmakers on that team, Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. It is a divisional game so it could be a lot closer then expected, but I can’t see the 49ers holding on past the first half.
Price’s Pick: Arizona 34 San Francisco 17
Leatherman’s Pick: Arizona 34 San Francisco 21
Rodgers is currently in New York cheering on his beloved Jets so he will not be writing his opinion for these games. (Not like it matters) We will both pick Monday Night Football tomorrow afternoon. Thanks for everyone’s support.
New Orleans at Atlanta-
Great match up between two big divisional foes. You have the consistent, elite quarterback in Drew Brees against the “looks great so far” rookie, Matt Ryan. Even more important for this game is the fact that both of these teams control their own destiny in this fierce division. The NFC South is so close that a win for either of these teams is a big statement. The defenses are very similar both giving up about 330 yards per game, give or take. The main difference here is the way they get it done on offense. The Saints air it out, averaging 314 passing ypg. The Falcons continuously pound it out on the ground with Michael Turner, who already has 794 yards throughout 8 games. Personally, I really like the Falcons offense and know they have the ability to step up and make big plays. This and home-team advantage will make my decision.
Price’s Pick: Atlanta 27, New Orleans 24
Tennessee at Chicago-
Both teams playing very well so far this year and each leading their divisions. X-Factor for this game is Rex Grossman. Kyle Orton is doubtful to play with his ankle injury and we all remember over the last couple of years how inconsistent Grossman can be. The Titans defense will put him on his ass all day.
Price’s Pick: Tennessee 28, Chicago 24
Jacksonville at Detroit-
The defeated Lions may actually have some hope for this game. Jacksonville have not proven themselves so far this year and they currently occupy the pit of AFC South. This game is all in the hands of the Detroit Quaterback, whether that be Dan Orlovsky or Daunte Culpepper. The Jaguars defense have been nothing but ordinary to this point, leaving the Lions a chance at their first win. This being said, it’s still the Detroit Lions.
Price’s Pick: Jacksonville 17, Detroit 10
Baltimore at Houston-
Really? Can anyone actually show me a valid point as to how the Texans could actually compete with the Ravens. Not going to happen. Expect Joe Flacco to have a big day.
Price’s Pick: Baltimore 24, Houston 10
Seattle at Miami-
The Seahawks might as well not even get on the plane to Miami. Chad Pennington, Ronnie Brown, and the “what the hell” wildcat offense is going to paralyze Seattle. The Seahawk defense will be back against the wall the entire game.
Price’s Pick: Miami 27, Seattle 7
Green Bay at Minnesota –
Tough game to call. Aaron Rodgers hasn’t put on the show that everyone expected up to this point. The Packers are 4-4. This is mainly because neither the offense nor defense have been anything more than decent. On the other hand, The Vikings have woken up from a disappointing first couple of weeks. They are also only 4-4 but at least they are moving in the right direction. Gus Frerotte has really stepped up to the plate. He may not be one of the better quarterbacks on paper, but he is still managing to win some games. His main job on the field is to give the ball to Adrian Peterson. When AP is getting 25 or more touches in a game, you should win. Especially now that he is back into his “100 yard per week” rhythm.
Price’s Pick: Minnesota 27, Green Bay 21
Buffalo at New England-
Another game in which you have two different directions. The Bills have lost 3 of their last four games. They got beat at home by the Jets and absolutely demolished in Arizona. The Patriots’ Matt Cassel is finally coming into his own. Both teams need this game both sitting at 5-3 in the AFC East. Just for Rodgers, Ill mention the Jets are also tied with both of them at 5-3. The X-Factor for me is the Bills overall offensive performance. Trent Edwards needs to get back on track. Marshawn Lynch may only get 15 carries a game but you have to make the most of them. He is only averaging 3.5 yards per carry giving the Bills the 28th ranked Rush in the NFL.
Price’s Pick: New England 24, Buffalo 21
St. Louis at NYJ-
Just like the two teams above, The Jets need this win. Only difference being there playing the 2-6 Rams. The only problem I could see for the Jets is that Brett Favre has already thrown 12 interceptions this season. His mistakes, like all quarterbacks come from no time in the pocket. But, St. Louis has no defense from any angle and will allow big yards in the air and on the ground.
Price’s Pick: NYJ 34, St. Louis 17
Carolina at Oakland-
This game is almost not worth talking about. The Panthers are having a hell of a season at 6-2. The Raiders having one they wish they could just end already at 2-6. Julius Peppers and the rest of Carolina’s D-Line will be all over Jamarcus Russell. Russell should just fall into fetal position all day to avoid injury.
Price’s Pick: Carolina 24, Oakland 10
Indianapolis at Pittsburgh-
The Colts are sitting at 4-4 looking up at the 8-0 Titans in the AFC South. The Steelers are a game up on the Ravens in the AFC North. Peyton is not having a bad year by any means but I expected a lot more out of him and I’m sure he did to. The Colts need to light a fire under their ass if they have any hope of catching up to Tennessee. On the other side of things, the Steelers have the 1st rated pass defense. So even though its necessary for Manning to go big, it’s not going to happen.
Price’s Pick: Pittsburgh 24, Indianapolis 21
Kansas City at San Diego-
San Diego’s Defense has been absolutely atrocious so far. But, Kansas City’s quarterback is Tyler Thigpen. Kansas City is just that bad. Plus, I still have faith in Phillip Rivers. Kansas City has the worst rated rush defense so look for Tomlinson to have a huge day.
Price’s Pick: San Diego 28, Kansas City 14
NYG at Philadelphia-
This truly is a battle in the trenches. The D-Line to pressure the quarterback the most will win. Both quarterbacks can put up numbers. Brandon Jacobs and Brian Westbrook are completely different backs but still manage the game in their own ways. This game will be decided by the defense with the most heart. Everyone make sure they are by a television come 8:15 tonight. This will be one for the ages.
Price’s Pick: Philadelphia 21, NYG 17
Alright guys, here is just a quick bit about the Ok St. @ T-Tech game that could possibly decide which team has an opportunity at the national championship. In case you didn’t know, both teams are top 10 in the nation in total offensive yards and points per game. However, Ok St. has an unbelievable rush offense (Kendall Hunter/1200 yds. 11 TD) while TTech has the second best pass offense in the nation. It is most likely easier for TTech to adjust to stop the prolific rush offense of Ok St. (who averages over 270 yds. per game) then for Ok St. to stop the aerial attack of TTech who averages over 420 yards per game. Given this, I don’t think that Ok St. will be able to stop Graham Harrell, Michael Crabtree, and the Red Raiders.
Rodgers’ Pick: Texas Tech 34 Oklahoma State 27
Unlike Rodgers on this one, I am willing to admit that I am 100% on Texas Techs Offense’s nuts. The only thing that I am going to tell you about Ok St. is that the only solid team they have beaten to get to their beloved #9 spot in the questionable BCS standings was Chase Daniel and the Mizzou Tigers. The only other ranked team that they have played was the previously #1 Texas and lost. Remember last week the team that beat those Longhorns, THE TEXAS TECH RED RAIDERS. Now I am going to force feed you my opinion of how TTU is one of the top 3 most explosive offenses in all of college football. Graham Harrell has proven that he can pass for 400 yards against any defensive unit. Texas has an elite defense, and when put to the challenge, Harrell threw for 474 yards and 2 touchdowns. One of those touchdowns coming with 8 seconds left to win it. Michael Crabtree, the freak of nature who caught that touchdown, is an all out playmaker. I would say that this sophomore’s performance would be a factor in this game, but honestly, who can stop him.
Price’s Pick: Texas Tech 48 Oklahoma State 24
(RAPE)
Leatherman’s Pick: Texas Tech 38 Oklahoma State 20
Quote of the Post: “Hop off”
(Rodgers referring to Price being all over Michael Crabtree and Texas Tech’s nuts)
Rodgers 0-0
Price 0-0
Leatherman 0-0
