The Week That Was

The wheels are starting to come off for the Washington Redskins. The same problems that didn't seem like a big deal when they were 6-2, now are becoming too much for the team to handle. An inability to protect the QB and inability to rush the QB are the biggest reasons the Redskins will be fighting for their playoff lives the rest of the season. The Redskins had every chance to win that game last night but couldn't manufacture enough on offense and couldn't throw the ball down the field. Tony Romo never had to worry about his injured pinkie getting hurt worse as he wasn't sacked once. If the season ended today the Redskins would still make the playoffs but what 6 weeks ago seemed like a sure thing, is now looking like it will come down to the last weekend. Typical Redskins.

Attended Notre Dame/Navy in Baltimore on Saturday. Everything was going swimmingly, Notre Dame was up 27-7 and after being drenched from a monsoon I decided it was time to leave. I ended up missing Navy recovering two onside kicks and nearly winning in impossible fashion. The Irish held on to win 27-21 and became bowl eligible. A win over Syracuse and a loss to USC seem likely so the Irish should be 7-5 heading into their bowl game. I would really like to see them win a bowl and end their 15 year bowl losing streak. As stated before anything less than a BCS berth next year should spell the end of the Charlie Weis era. Nebraska went to Kansas State and did what they should to a team in turmoil, they stomped them 56-28. If Nebraska can beat Colorado in two weeks they will finish 8-4 and might have a chance at a New Year's Day bowl. That would be a great first season for coach Bo Pelini.

The Lakers suffered their first loss of the season Friday as they were routed at home by the Detroit Pistons. The Wizards continue to stink, and the Bulls continue to hover around .500.

The Hail Mary - Week 11

Cowboys. Redskins. Sunday Night Football on national television, doesn't get any better than that.

However, before I get into the Week 11 NFL action I need to give a shout out to local soccer powerhouse Ron Burgundy who clinched their third straight division championship on Tuesday, cementing themselves as a dynasty. With their 1-0 victory over Dragons FC, courtesy of a goal by Drew Verbel, Burgundy assured themselves the division crown with one game left. In the spring they will move up to Division 2, which has some of the players feeling trepidation. However, I have confidence that they will handle the step up as they have handled the other ones and although they may not win Division 2, they will certainly be competitive.

Oh, and one more thing. I correctly predicted the final score of Tennessee and Chicago last week as a 21-14 Titans victory. Anyone in Vegas that reads this, I would be willing to relocate.

Games That I Will Be Watching

New York Jets (6-3) at New England (6-3)

First place in the AFC East is on the line in this Thursday night game. Everyone seems to like the Jets in this one, which I don't really understand considering the Patriots went to New York in Matt Cassel's first career start and won. I think the Jets have gotten better since then, but so has Cassel.

Prediction: New England 28, New York Jets 24

Baltimore (6-3) at New York Giants (8-1)

I think for the first time ever I am excited about a Baltimore Ravens game. The Ravens ended up doing things backwards. Way back when they hired Brian Billick, an offensive coordinator, to turn around their offense. Not once in his time there was the offense ever legit. This past off season they hired John Harbaugh, a defensive guy, and now the offense is finally clicking behind rookie QB Joe Flacco. This game will be very physical and should be fun to watch. I want to pick the Ravens but I honestly can't see them winning three straight road games behind a rookie QB.

Prediction: New York Giants 24, Baltimore 21

San Diego (4-5) at Pittsburgh (6-3)

Despite being 4-5, everyone keeps ranking the Chargers high in their power rankings, letting the Chargers get by on their past success. However, after nine games evidence seems to be mounting that the Chargers just may not be that good. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has been atrocious in his last 3 starts but might get a reprieve here as he plays the Chargers last ranked pass defense.

Prediction: Pittsburgh 27, San Diego 17

Dallas (5-4) at Washington (6-3)

The best rivalry in the NFL gets prime time Sunday night attention. This game has huge implications for both teams as they fight for a wild card berth in the NFC. Dallas gets QB Tony Romo back, hoping he can be the cure for all that has ailed the Cowboys the last three weeks. I was confident the Skins would win this one until the news about RB Clinton Portis came out. As I type this it is still unknown if he will play or not. Even if he does play it would be unlikely that he will be 100%. Without a healthy Portis, unfortunately I think the Cowboys win.

Prediction: Dallas 24, Washington 14

Cleveland (3-6) at Buffalo (5-4)

I will miss some of this game while I attend George Mason basketball's home opener. Not very excited to watch this one. Home field advantage and desperation will carry the Bills.

Prediction: Buffalo 28, Cleveland 17

Rest of Week 11

Denver (5-4) at Atlanta (6-3)

The Falcons are legit, the Broncos are not, Falcons roll at home.

Prediction: Atlanta 34, Denver 21

Philadelphia (5-4) at Cincinnati (1-8)

The Eagles can beat the crap teams, the Bengals = crap.

Prediction: Philadelphia 30, Cincinnati 16

Chicago (5-4) at Green Bay (4-5)

The Bears have owned this rivalry in recent years. This is almost a must win game for the Packers, home field plus desperation equals Packers win.

Prediction: Green Bay 21, Chicago 17

Houston (3-6) at Indianapolis (5-4)

Texans QB Sage Rosenfels will try to make up for fumbling away the Texans game against the Colts about a month ago. Try being the operative word.

Prediction: Indianapolis 31, Houston 20

New Orleans (4-5) at Kansas City (1-8)

Chiefs QB Tyler Thigpen has gone from a national joke to the hottest thing on the waiver wire in fantasy football in just a few weeks. This will be a shootout but the Chiefs just don't know how to win close games yet.

Prediction: New Orleans 35, Kansas City 34

Oakland (2-7) at Miami (5-4)

If Oakland had a half decent offense to match their very good defense they could compete. Although he isn't coaching anymore Bill Parcells affect on the Dolphins can't be denied.

Prediction: Miami 21, Oakland 10

Minnesota (5-4) at Tampa Bay (6-3)

Old NFC Central rivals meet in Tampa. I think Vikings QB Gus Frerotte is going to have a tough game and the Bucs defense will keep RB Adrian Peterson in check.

Prediction: Tampa Bay 27, Minnesota 13

Detroit (0-9) at Carolina (7-2)

Most boring game of the weekend.

Prediction: Carolina 34, Detroit 13

St. Louis (2-7) at San Francisco (2-7)

First of all, it was maddening listening to Tony Kornheiser on Monday Night talk about if the Niners were to beat the Cardinals that they should assure Mike Singletary of the coaching job. Hey Tony, remember when Jim Haslett took over in St. Louis, won 2 in a row and everyone wanted to give him the job? He is 0-3 since and the Rams have looked like crap. It was also maddening to watch the Niners execution at the end of that game. Absolutely inexcusable that they weren't prepared to properly manage the clock. When they got to the 2 rather than substitute people on, spike the ball and give yourself some time to get settled. Then when it was decided that Frank Gore was down at the 2 with 4 seconds left, it was third down. Spike the ball and give yourself some time to set up for one final play. Nothing can be done about it now, so just go out and kick the crap out of the Rams please.

Prediction: San Francisco 27, St. Louis 19

Arizona (6-3) at Seattle (2-7)

The Seahawks finally get back QB Matt Hasselbeck. However, their offense is so out of sync with all of the injuries it won't matter, the Cardinals win one on the road.

Prediction: Arizona 30, Seattle 21

Tennessee (9-0) at Jacksonville (4-5)

Very tempted to pick the Jags here as I think they will be amped up for this one. However, the only way the Jags can win is if they run the ball and the Titans D will negate that.

Prediction: Tennessee 22, Jacksonville 19

Last Week: 11-3
Overall: 63-34

Cram Session - Week 12

The slate of games this weekend are underwhelming to say the least. No games between powerhouses like we have seen for the past month. However, for Notre Dame this weekend is huge. Not only might they be playing for head coach Charlie Weis' job, they also are looking to start a new streak of dominance over Navy.

Games That Matter to Me That May Not Matter to You

Notre Dame (5-4) at Navy (6-3)

Last year was a horrible season for the Irish. The lowest point came when Notre Dame's streak of 43 straight years of beating Navy came to an end. This season started off better, a 5-2 start had some people even talking potential BCS bowl for the Irish. Two straight losses, including an embarrassing shutout at Boston College has changed that talk to should Charlie Weis be fired. I have been a firm supporter of Charlie but unless the Irish make a BCS bowl next year I think he should be gone. If they lose to Navy this weekend, I might want him gone by Sunday. Don't think that will happen though, Irish win and guarantee themselves a chance at ending their 15 year bowl losing streak.

Prediction: Notre Dame 28, Navy 24

Nebraska (6-4, 3-3) at Kansas State (4-6, 1-5)

Nebraska got an impressive win at home against Kansas and continued their dominance of the Jayhawks in Lincoln. The defense played well enough and the offense continued to pile up yards. An 8-4 season is within reach for the Huskers, which would be a great start for Coach Pelini. Kansas State is in turmoil right now with the mess of their coach Ron Prince resigning and the Huskers must take advantage.

Prediction: Nebraska 38, Kansas State 27

Top 25

Mississippi State (3-6, 1-4) at #1 Alabama (10-0, 6-0)

Everyone is already anointing Florida as the best team, and basically assuming they will beat the Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship. Not a good thing for the Gators. Alabama ends a 2 year losing streak to the Bulldogs in impressive fashion.

Prediction: Alabama 31, Mississippi State 13

#3 Texas (9-1, 5-1) at Kansas (6-4, 3-3)

Kansas sucks again, all is right in the Big 12.

Prediction: Texas 42, Kansas 21

#25 South Carolina (7-3, 4-3) at #4 Florida (8-1, 6-1)

This is the only game this weekend between ranked teams, as the Ol Ball coach comes back to his old stomping grounds. Two years ago when Florida won the national title the Gamecocks nearly knocked them off at the Swamp. I think this one will be closer than the experts think.

Prediction: Florida 35, South Carolina 26

#6 USC (8-1, 6-1) at Stanford (5-5, 4-3)

Last year Stanford shocked USC at the Coliseum despite being over 40 point underdogs. Not going to happen this year.

Prediction: USC 28, Stanford 10

#7 Utah (10-0, 6-0) at San Diego State (1-9, 0-6)

The Utes will cruise before their last test against BYU.

Prediction: Utah 30, San Diego State 12

Indiana (3-7, 1-5) at #8 Penn State (9-1, 5-1)

Indiana is going to get the beat down from a disappointed Nittany Lions team.

Prediction: Penn State 51, Indiana 14

#9 Boise State (9-0, 5-0) at Idaho (2-8, 1-5)

Easy win for the Broncos.

Prediction: Boise State 44, Idaho 8

#10 Georgia (8-2, 5-2) at Auburn (5-5, 2-4)

If Auburn could score points I might pick the upset as Georgia has been unimpressive the last few weeks. But they can't so I won't.

Prediction: Georgia 27, Auburn 14

#11 Ohio State (8-2, 5-1) at Illinois (5-5, 3-3)

The running theme for this weekend seems to be teams looking for revenge for upset losses from last year. Ohio State, much like Notre Dame and USC will get their revenge.

Prediction: Ohio State 45, Illinois 21

#12 Missouri (8-2, 4-2) at Iowa State (2-8, 0-6)

Boring.

Prediction: Missouri 37, Iowa State 20

#13 Oklahoma State (8-2, 4-2) at Colorado (5-5, 2-4)

Cowboys recover from blowout loss at Texas Tech by stomping the Buffaloes.

Prediction: Oklahoma State 47, Colorado 23

#16 North Carolina (7-2, 3-2) at Maryland (6-3, 3-2)

The key to winning in the ACC, unless you are NC State is to be the home team. Maryland will use that to their advantage Saturday.

Prediction: Maryland 28, North Carolina 25

#17 BYU (9-1, 5-1) at Air Force (8-2, 5-1)

Since losing to Navy, Air Force has won 5 in a row. They make it 6 and upset the Cougars.

Prediction: Air Force 31, BYU 24

Boston College (6-3, 2-3) at #19 Florida State (7-2, 4-2)

ACC = home team wins.

Prediction: Florida State 38, Boston College 17

Troy (6-3) at #20 LSU (6-3)

Been a while since LSU was this low in the rankings. That will happen when your QB keeps throwing pick sixes.

Prediction: LSU 30, Troy 17

#22 Cincinnati (7-2, 3-1) at Louisville (5-4, 1-3)

The Bearcats nearly blew an 11 point lead in about 1 minute. Louisville pulls off the Friday night upset, proving that no one wants to win the Big East.

Prediction: Louisville 31, Cincinnati 28

#23 Tulsa (8-1, 5-0) at Houston (5-4, 4-1)

Tulsa lost to Arkansas, had a bye, then found themselves back in the Top 25. I like Houston to win at home.

Prediction: Houston 44, Tulsa 41

#24 Wake Forest (6-3, 4-2) at North Carolina State (3-6, 1-4)

As stated above, NC State is immune to the rules of the ACC because they suck.

Prediction: Wake Forest 28, North Carolina State 20

Last Week: 17-4
Overall: 101-36

The Week That Was

Above is pictured the best player in the NBA today. Kobe Bryant definitely > LeBron James. The Lakers crushed the Houston Rockets last night and stand at 5-0. Yes, it is very early but this team looks dominant right now and has many wondering what might have been against the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals last June if they had had a healthy Andrew Bynum. The Wizards have gotten off to an 0-5 start for the second straight year. I wasn't too worried about first but now I am starting to think the Wizards are headed for a playoff less season. Yes, they will get Gilbert Arenas back in a month but who knows what kind of game shape he will be in. Plus, the loss of Brendan Haywood is proving to be a bigger blow than some feared.

The New York Giants did exactly as I predicted and knocked off the Philadelphia Eagles at the Linc. It is obvious that the Giants are the class of the NFC Beast and that the Cowboys, Redskins, and Eagles are fighting for a wild card spot at this point. Tonight, I get a rare opportunity to see the San Francisco 49ers in action, just hoping they don't embarrass themselves on national television. If they need motivation the Niners just need to think back to two weeks ago when during an embarrassing loss interim head coach Mike Singletary pulled his pants down in front of the team. The players shouldn't want to find out how far he will go if they give a poor effort tonight.

The Alabama Crimson Tide held on to the #1 spot, defeating the LSU Tigers on the road in overtime. Texas Tech remained #2 with an impressive win at home against Oklahoma State. Penn State fell out of the running for the national championship with an inexcusable loss at Iowa. Not that it matters now but it was annoying to keep reading how Iowa was their last true test, completely discounting that the Nittany Lions still have to play a 9-2 Michigan State team in a couple of weeks. Also, it was funny to see them lose because after the win at Ohio State two weeks ago, many friends of mine from Penn State had already decided to book their tickets to the national title game. Sort of reminded me of West Virginia fans before their game against Pittsburgh last year. The Nebraska Cornhuskers proved that there are three guarantees in life; death, taxes, and the Huskers stomping on the Kansas Jayhawks in Lincoln. With the win Nebraska became bowl eligible and finally won a game they weren't expected to win. Hopefully Coach Pelini can build on this and have a strong finish to the season that can hopefully carry to next year. I missed Notre Dame's embarrassing effort at Boston College as they were shutout 17-0. The Irish can't beat a team with a winning record and unless there is vast improvement next year, i.e. a BCS bowl berth, I think it is time to find a new coach.

Oh, and Barack Obama became the 44th president.

The Hail Mary - Week 10

Not too many stellar games on the NFL calendar this weekend but we do have the start of Thursday night football, which means NFL action 3 days a week, something I love. I will be in New York this weekend so my football viewing will be slightly limited but I will still have a chance to catch a couple games.

Games That I Will Be Watching

New York Giants (7-1) at Philadelphia (5-3)

A good old fashioned NFC East rivalry is the game of the week. The Giants won't get the benefit of playing against a team starting a lousy QB. Both teams have won three straight and the Eagles need a win here to keep any hopes of winning the division. I think Lincoln Financial will be jacked up for this game but the Giants have proven that road conditions don't faze them. I think the Giants have the Eagles number right now and escape Philly with a win.

Prediction: New York Giants 21, Philadelphia 20

San Francisco (2-6) at Arizona (5-3)

ESPN's fascination with this game continues as I believe for the third straight year it is on Monday Night Football. I am a Niners fan and even I can't understand why ESPN insists on airing this game every year. Mike Singletary is already my favorite coach and I hope the Niners win some games for him so that he is retained. One of those wins won't come here though.

Prediction: Arizona 34, San Francisco 20

Rest of Week 10

Denver (4-4) at Cleveland (3-5)

I will be at the Verizon Center tonight taking in a Capitals game so won't be able to watch much or any of this one. Brady Quinn get's the start for the Browns and I think the porous Broncos defense is the best team for him to begin his career against. Brady will have a good game and the hype machine will begin rolling.

Prediction: Cleveland 28, Denver 24

New Orleans (4-4) at Atlanta (5-3)

Too many factors working against the Saints here. They are banged up, Atlanta is unbeaten at home, and in all NFC South games this year the home team has won.

Prediction: Atlanta 27, New Orleans 17

Tennessee (8-0) at Chicago (5-3)

Kyle Orton or Rex Grossman at QB for the Bears doesn't make a difference, Titans remain unbeaten.

Prediction: Tennessee 21, Chicago 14

Jacksonville (3-5) at Detroit (0-8)

Jacksonville can't possibly lose to another winless team can they? With how lousy their offensive line and running games have been this year I wouldn't put it past them, but I think they squeak it out over unretired QB Daunte Culpepper and the Lions.

Prediction: Jacksonville 24, Detroit 21

Seattle (2-6) at Miami (4-4)

It seemed impossible when the season began but looking at the Dolphins 8 remaining games they have a legitimate shot at the playoffs. Can't afford a loss here at home against a sad Seahawks team.

Prediction: Miami 28, Seattle 15

Green Bay (4-4) at Minnesota (4-4)

Huge NFC North rivalry game. My sadness about missing this evaporated when I found out our local Fox station is showing an awful game between the Jets and Rams. This should be a good one, but the Packers squeak out a win.

Prediction: Green Bay 19, Minnesota 16

Buffalo (5-3) at New England (5-3)

I am starting to think that Buffalo Bills = FRAUD.

Prediction: New England 24, Buffalo 19

St. Louis (2-6) at New York Jets (5-3)

I like how after two games everyone was saying give Jim Haslett the Rams job. Is it impossible to let something play out in this day and age?

Prediction: New York Jets 35, St. Louis 22

Baltimore (5-3) at Houston (3-5)

I keep doubting the Ravens and they keep winning, people are doubting they can win back to back on the road, I think their new power running game get's it done.

Prediction: Baltimore 24, Houston 23

Carolina (6-2) at Oakland (2-6)

The Raiders are such a mess that it isn't even worth getting into. I can't imagine being a fan of that team, oh wait I am an Orioles fan, so I guess I can sort of relate.

Prediction: Carolina 34, Oakland 7

Indianpolis (4-4) at Pittsburgh (6-2)

It is still unknown at this time whether QB Ben Roethlisberger will start for the Steelers. Even if Byron Leftwich has to start, he proved capable Monday night against the Redskins and the Steelers bruising defense will harass Colts QB Peyton Manning.

Prediction: Pittsburgh 23, Indianpolis 14

Kansas City (1-7) at San Diego (3-5)

Last year Kansas City shocked San Diego on the road and people thought the Chargers were dead. The Chargers recovered from that game and saved their season. If the Chiefs do it again this year, there will be no recovery for the Chargers.

Prediction: San Diego 33, Kansas City 17

Last Week: 9-5
Overall: 52-31

Cram Session - Week 11

The Big 12 once again takes center stage in college football this weekend. The newest darling of the Big 12, #2 Texas Tech hosts #9 Oklahoma State. Also, #1 Alabama travels to LSU and is on Upset Alert.

Games That Matter to Me That May Not Matter to You

Kansas (6-3, 3-2) at Nebraska (5-4, 2-3)

Nebraska was destroyed by Oklahoma last week and reaffirmed just how far they have to climb to get back to being a relevant national program again. Kansas has been up and down in the Big 12, but is definitely not the team from last year that only suffered one loss. I think Nebraska coach Bo Pelini will have his team ready to play at home and Nebraska finally breaks through and beats a team they aren't expected to beat.

Prediction: Nebraska 37, Kansas 34

Notre Dame (5-3) at Boston College (5-3)

Notre Dame suffers from the same problem as Nebraska. They can win the games they are supposed to win but so far this year they have been unable to break through and beat a top tier team. Boston College isn't top tier but a win at Boston College would be impressive and would further the development of the Irish. Much like Nebraska I think the Irish will finally break through this weekend.

Prediction: Notre Dame 27, Boston College 23

Top 25

#1 Alabama (9-0, 5-0) at #16 LSU (6-2, 3-2)

Alabama head coach Nick Saban returns to Baton Rouge, where he led LSU to a national championship in 2003. I believe Alabama's stay at #1 will be a short one. They have looked shaky in recent weeks and this is the type of environment where shaky won't get a win.

Prediction: LSU 24, Alabama 16

#9 Oklahoma State (8-1, 4-1) at #2 Texas Tech (9-0, 5-0)

Texas Tech rose all the way to #2 with their win over Texas. They will have a few more weeks to enjoy it, but a trip to Norman on November 22nd will end their storybook season.

Prediction: Texas Tech 38, Oklahoma State 28

#3 Penn State (9-0, 5-0) at Iowa (5-4, 2-3)

Don't panic Nittany Lions fans, if you go undefeated you will play in the BCS Championship.

Prediction: Penn State 41, Iowa 20

Baylor (3-6, 1-4) at #4 Texas (8-1, 4-1)

Poor Baylor.

Prediction: Texas 45, Baylor 17

#5 Florida (7-1, 5-1) at Vanderbilt (5-3, 3-2)

Seems like it was long ago that Vanderbilt was in the Top 25, no offense means huge loss to Florida.

Prediction: Florida 34, Vanderbilt 10

#6 Oklahoma (8-1, 4-1) at Texas A & M (4-5, 2-3)

College Station usually is one of the toughest places to win. This year, not so much.

Prediction: Oklahoma 52, Texas A & M 21

#21 California (6-2, 4-1) at #7 USC (7-1, 5-1)

USC coach Pete Carroll needs to stop his whining. The BCS isn't the greatest thing ever but if your team hadn't lost at Oregon State you would be in the driver's seat for the BCS title game. Maybe you should whine about how lousy the Pac-10 is.

Prediction: USC 55, California 17

#12 TCU (9-1, 6-0) at #8 Utah (9-0, 5-0)

Two heavyweights in the Mountain West Conference do battle on Thursday night. This one will come right down to the wire but the home field advantage will carry the Utes.

Prediction: Utah 27, TCU 24

Utah State (2-7, 2-3) at #10 Boise State (8-0, 4-0)

Boise State RB Ian Johnson will have a good pro career.

Prediction: Boise State 51, Utah State 13

#11 Ohio State (7-2, 4-1) at #24 Northwestern (7-2, 3-2)

Ohio State could still get an at large berth to a BCS game.

Prediction: Ohio State 28, Northwestern 16

#13 Georgia (7-2, 4-2) at Kentucky (6-3, 2-3)

Both these schools were embarrassed by Florida, Georgia is fraudulent but much better than the Wildcats.

Prediction: Georgia 27, Kentucky 19

Kansas State (4-5, 1-4) at #14 Missouri (7-2, 3-2)

Another team for Missouri to score tons of points on.

Prediction: Missouri 58, Kansas State 28

San Diego State (1-8, 0-5) at #15 BYU (8-1, 4-1)

BYU has looked terrible the last few weeks. Looking at San Diego State's record it makes the fact that Notre Dame almost lost at home to them in Week 2 that much more sickening.

Prediction: BYU 38, San Diego State 15

Northern Illinois (5-3, 4-1) at #17 Ball State (8-0, 4-0)

I don't care what their record is, Ball State has no business in the Top 25.

Prediction: Ball State 27, Northern Illinois 23

Purdue (3-6, 1-4) at #18 Michigan State (8-2, 5-1)

Michigan State looked ready to begin their second half swoon as they trailed late against Wisconsin. Thankfully for them Wisconsin's coach is a moron and called timeout at the end of the game to actually allow the Spartans to line up for the game winning field goal, rather than have to rush the kick. Michigan State won't need idiocy from Joe Tiller to win this week.

Prediction: Michigan State 27, Purdue 15

#20 Georgia Tech (7-2, 4-2) at #19 North Carolina (6-2, 2-2)

The Tar Heels need this win to keep alive any hope of reaching the ACC title game. I think they get it done.

Prediction: North Carolina 31, Georgia Tech 24

Clemson (4-4, 2-3) at #22 Florida State (6-2, 3-2)

Maybe if Tommy Bowden was still coaching Clemson they would win this one, he owned his father.

Prediction: Florida State 28, Clemson 14

#23 Maryland (6-2, 3-1) at Virginia Tech (5-3, 2-2)

I don't care if the Hokies have to start their 3rd string QB in this one, no way Maryland wins on a Thursday night in Blacksburg.

Prediction: Virginia Tech 27, Maryland 10

Cincinnati (6-2, 2-1) at #25 West Virginia (6-2, 3-0)

West Virginia will be the Big East team to earn the right to prove the Big East doesn't belong in the BCS come January.

Prediction: West Virginia 31, Cincinnati 14

Last Week: 13-7
Overall: 84-32

The Week That Was

Big day tomorrow for our country. Rather than alienate half my readership (do I even have any readers?), I will focus on the sports news from this past week.

In the NFL, the New York Giants did as was expected and chased Dallas Cowboys QB Brad Johnson from the game early and put the beat down on the Cowboys. The Giants definitely look like the best team in the NFC right now, while the Cowboys could go from everyone's Super Bowl favorite to the outside looking in come playoff time. The other big news was the Cincinnati Bengals getting their first win of the season over the pathetic Jacksonville Jaguars. I traded Chad Johnson in one of my fantasy leagues so of course he goes out and scores 2 TDs.

College football wasn't much fun this weekend. Notre Dame continued to be unable to beat a half decent team, 4 OT's and not a single TD. Very upsetting loss and it doesn't get any easier with a trip to Boston College this Saturday. The Nebraska Cornhuskers were once again embarrassed by a highly ranked team. I blinked and they were already down 28-0. Bo Pelini really has his work cut out for him. Outside of my rooting interests, the biggest story was the Texas Longhorns being taken down by the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Despite trailing almost all of the game Texas still had a shot but were unable to secure what should have been an easy interception. Texas Tech has moved up to #2 in the BCS standings, and after this weekend I think they will be #1 as I am liking LSU to upset Alabama.

The NBA season kicked off on Tuesday. The Wizards are 0-2, but I am not panicking yet. They started 0-5 last year and righted the ship. The Lakers are 3-0 and are looking every bit as dominant as people anticipated. I really hope Kobe Bryant doesn't hit a wall at some point though. Played 100 games last year, than went to China for the Olympics and all of the sudden was back to a new NBA season. Derrick Rose has looked impressive for the Bulls and the team is already showing more energy than they showed all of last year.

The Philadelphia Phillies won their first World Series in 28 years as they took down the Tampa Bay Rays in 5 games. One thing I learned from predicting the postseason this year was to not listen to any of the experts. I went with that gut feeling as all of the experts were taking the Rays in the World Series and I decided to go with the Phillies. Now that their championship hunger has been filled maybe Philly fans will go easier on Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid. Acutally, not likely.

Due to the NFL starting Thursday games this week the blog will be seeing some scheduling changes. Cram Session will now be posted on Wednesday and The Hail Mary will be posted on Thursday.