COLLEGE FOOTBALL BOWL PREDICTION

        CHICK FIL-A BOWL   GEORGIA DOME  ATL, GA

TEXAS A&M   -13.5    vs    DUKE

This is another program that is just on a complete upswing and is probably on to bigger and better things in the future.  Kevin Sumlin has done a great job thus far, and although he won't have Manziel next year, he should continue to contend in the SEC.  I have decided to timidly stay away from the action here, due to the Aggies poor defense, and the fact that Duke got a taste of what they'll see tonight when they played Jameis Winston and the Noles earlier in the month.  I really don't think that will create for them an ability to stop Johnny Football, in his last game for A&M, or in a game this big, with the way the Blue Devils have played defense this season.  The Aggies defense did look a lot better than the regular season in last year's bowl game, so maybe Sumlin will take advantage of the month to prepare and have the D play up again.  I really don't think Duke is in the same class as a program talent wise, so I say Ole Football and Co. come to shine in this game.

PREDICTED SCORE : AGGIES  48  BLUE DEVILS 28

COLLEGE FOOTBALL BOWL PLAY

              SUN BOWL   SUN BOWL  EL PASO, TX

****  UCLA -7   vs   VIRGINIA TECH

I want to start off by saying, to those who are still following, please don't lose confidence.  I know there is some reason for you to start doubting, but just hear me out.  I am about to pitch you on why one should stay on board and invest in me.  This is a very tough business.  In fact, I am basically selling certainty in an uncertain world.  This is extremely difficult to do on a consistent basis.  Damn near impossible.  It's very much like sales.  You are only as good as your last sale to the one's that are paying you.  Right now I am as good as my last 5, which I lost.  As someone who is paying me, you've got to be worried and asking yourself "what's wrong".  Just go look at the whole year, though, including the losses.  I really don't get blown out, which means I am on the right track, but some things just don't budge, because there is always going to be things you can't control.  There are sales you can't get and games you can't win.  Even Tom Hopkins met some people he couldn't sell.  With that being said, I have been a producer for the majority of this season, and this is just a rough patch.  In these kind of businesses there are bad days, bad weeks and even bad months.  I plan to redeem myself with this one play, which I am calling my Refund Play of the Year.  I like this game so much, that I think it is worth 4 out of 5 of my last plays.  If I were selling this play it would be a 100% money back guarantee.  So ya can't lose.
So here's what I like about it.  Jim Mora Jr. has really got this program on the upswing in his second year.  After a promising season last year, and then to end it with a bowl loss to a quality team, I think they have made some strides this season.  I think they are ready to shine in their bowl game this year.  It's also good that Jim Mora had offers to possible better situations, but he decided to stay and continue to build, because he thinks they can do great things.  Virginia Tech, on the other hand, has just not been good like they were in the past for some years now.  It looks like they are definitely on a downswing and coach Frank Beamer may be close to the end of his regime with the Hokies.  They finished 8-4 this year in a pretty average conference, and lost to non-ranked opponents.  The Bruins have finished 9-3 in a very tough Pac 12 conference this year.  All of their three losses were to quality ranked opponents, all of whom which are in their conference.  They have also had more impressive victories, and I really like what coach Mora is doing.  So they'll be ready to roll this Hokie team.

PREDICTED SCORE : BRUINS 34  HOKIES 13

NFL WEEK 17 PLAYS

*** PHILADELPHIA  -7   at   DALLAS

I don't care what the idiot coach said about Tony Romo being day to day and that he has a chance of playing.  Tony Romo's chances of playing are about as good as the Cowboys' are of winning this game.  He is not going to play, and even if he did, I'd still like the Eagles to win by a comfortable margin.  Having Kyle Orton in will mean that they are going to run the ball, which is what they should have been doing more of in the first place all season.  I think Orton's lack of mobility is going to hurt the Cowboys and I see the Eagles getting to him.  I also see the Eagles being able to exploit the back end of Dallas' defense, just as pretty much every team that can throw has done.  This Dallas D is so bad, it's epic.  This is really the worst defense of all time, in my opinion, and the coaching is pretty close to just as bad.  A team as poorly coached as Dallas will crumble in a game like this, and it doesn't really matter where it's played.  The Eagles have stated that they are looking for revenge from a 17-3 loss at home earlier in the season.  A game in which Nick Foles was concussed and taken out, and then Matt Barkley took over for the game.  I see the Eagles being able to get an early lead, and then from there it will just be nearly impossible for Dallas to stay in it.

PREDICTED SCORE : EAGLES 41  COWBOYS 17


*** MINNESOTA  -3   vs   DETROIT

As I watched the Lions two weeks ago lose in a pathetic effort to the Ravens at home on Monday night, I said to myself, "This team is DONE."  I think it is apparent now that they technically are.  They couldn't even put a good game together when the division title was on the line, or should I say when the division title was handed to them.  This team has been a huge disappointment, and their coach is definitely getting fired, so ask yourself this..."What the hell do they have to play for?"  Absolutely nothing!  It looked like they kind of gave up two weeks ago.  Minnesota is playing for pride, which they have been doing for several weeks now, and this is a division rival, whom they would love to destroy.

PREDICTED SCORE : VIKINGS 37   LIONS 6

COLLEGE FOOTBALL BOWL GAME PLAY

      MILITARY BOWL, NAVY-MARINE CORP MEMORIAL STADIUM    ANNAPOLIS, MD

*** MARYLAND (+110) MoneyLine   vs    MARSHALL

I'm going ahead and discarding the +2.5 points that Marshall is favored by and taking the Moneline for this one, because I think that Maryland is winning this one.  It's going to basically be a home game for the Terps, but they have had some injuries this year, losing two receivers and two corner backs for the year. One of the corner backs will be back for this game and I really love the way Maryland coach, Randy Edsall, has his teams prepared and ready to win.  Dating back to his days as a head coach at UCONN, I am a big fan of this unsung hero.  Just watch in this game, for example, how tough, aggressive and focused his team plays, and rest assure any back ups starting will give a hell of an effort.  I think Maryland played much better competition than Marshall, who plays in the Conference USA, and can play some good defense, considering Edsall is a defensive minded coach.  I also like going against a team that got blown out in their conference championship game, as Marshall did by Rice.  I like the Terps to be able to play some D along with a smart, aggressive overall game.

PREDICTED SCORE : TERPS 28  THUNDERING HERD 20

COLLEGE BASKETBALL SATURDAY MOCK PLAYS

KANSAS ST  +8   vs    GONZAGA


TEXAS  +2.5   vs   MICHIGAN ST

NFL WEEK 16 PICK

NEW ORLEANS  +3   at    CAROLINA

I love it how everyone, and I mean everyone, is over reacting to one loss by the Saints, and are not even giving them a chance this week.  Hello??  Does everyone just forget about two weeks ago when the Saints dominated the Panthers?  And they think that the Saints are this terrible team on the road.  I will admit they are not as good, because that is obvious, but don't forget they almost beat the Pats on the road, and really should have, and that the Panthers probably shouldn't have beat N.E. at home.  It's not like the Saints can't put together a good game on the road.  Besides, the Panthers have not looked all that impressive and the Saints know how to beat them.  I think the Saints are just the better team here, and with all that's on the line, I think coach Payton will have a good game plan.  Of course, I'm not going to place action on a team that isn't the most trustworthy on the road, but I think the Saints got this!

PREDICTED SCORE : SAINTS 24   PANTHERS 17

COLLEGE BASKETBALL MOCK PLAY

DUKE   +4    vs    UCLA

Both the Blue Devils and the Bruins have looked very good so far this season.  It is still very early and tonight should tell us a little bit about these two teams.  UCLA comes into this one with only one loss on the road to a really impressive looking Missouri team.  Duke has lost a little bit of the national attention due to their two losses, which came to Kansas and top ranked Arizona, but that could be a good thing.  I think this will be a back and forth duel, and such a great game to watch.  I believe that freshman Rodney Hood and diaper dandy, Jabari Parker, will be difficult for the Bruins to stop, and could be the determining factor of the game.

PREDICTED SCORE : BLUE DEVILS  80  BRUINS  76

This actually was Duke -4, but for all you action Jacksons, you already knew that.  Since I didn't place anything on this, I didn't realize, because I looked on an app called SportsLines, which had it as Duke +4.  To those idiots, get your shit straight.  Regardless, there was no action on my part, but with the line being -4 and me expecting it to be a hard fought battle, I would just go ahead and Money Line it or bet it down to -1 or -1/2, with the line being under 5.  I also would have used this same strategy on LSU -3 over TT last night, but at the time, I saw no ML listed, and this is just practice for me.  Play on..

COLLEGE BASKETBALL MOCK PLAYS

TEXAS  +11   at   NORTH CAROLINA

The Tar Heels have looked good this year, knocking off Louisville, Michigan St, and just recently, Kentucky.  I do believe that this Longhorns team is a pretty even match up for them, and this should be a close game.

LSU  -3   at   TEXAS TECH

The Red Raiders really haven't beaten anyone this year, and I think the Tigers will go in there and get this win on the road in a pretty tough game.

NBA MOCK PLAY

BOSTON   pick em    vs    DETROIT

So here we have two 12-14 teams going at it this Wednesday night, and the Celtics will be seeking some revenge for the last meeting, which they lost to the Pistons 87-77.  Well, that was in the very beginning of the season, and it was on the road.  Boston has been pretty good at home and they are coming into this game riding a two game winning streak, and looking to make it three.  The Pistons just beat the top team, Indiana, on the road, so they may just be a little hung over.

NFL WEEK 16 PLAY

** MIAMI  -3   at   BUFFALO

I like the way the Dolphins have been playing lately and they just so happen to be playing for a wildcard spot in the play-offs, and their chances are looking good.  They have won 5 out of their last 7 after having a slump, and they just beat the Patriots in a must win for New England.  They are on a real role here, to say the least.  The Bills just barely got by Jacksonville last week, and if you watched the game, the Jags really beat themselves.  This week's match up is a play off game, so all Miami needs to do is just beat Buffalo on the road this week and then finish off the Jets at home the following week, and hope Baltimore loses one of their next two.  I see this as a strong possibility, and I like Miami's chances of getting into the post season.

PREDICTED SCORE : DOLPHINS 24  BILLS  14

COLLEGE FOOTBALL BOWL PLAY

                             NEW MEXICO BOWL    UNIVERSITY STADIUM  ALBUQUERQUE, NM


                            ** WASHINGTON ST   -4    vs   COLORADO ST

           I think Washington St head coach, Mike Leach has done a good job turning this program around.  They are playing in their first bowl game since 2003.  That's good enough right there.  They aren't where he'd like them to be yet, but they are now at least competing in a tough Pac 12 conference.  I think they play much better teams than Colorado St and will be too much for them in this game.

                     PREDICTED SCORE : COUGARS  42  RAMS 34

ANOTHER NFL WEEK 15 PLAY

** CAROLINA  -9.5   vs   NY JETS

The Jets got their offense going last week and got themselves a win, but that was against Oakland.  The Panthers are looking to bounce back this week at home after their little wake up call last week in N.O.  Carolina is still a play-off team and their defense should really shine today.

PREDICTED SCORE : PANTHERS 24  JETS 0

COLLEGE HOOPS MOCK PLAY

TENNESSEE  +6   at    WICHITA ST

This Wichita St team is very solid, but I'm not sure they are as good as their ranking, which is 12th in the country.  This Vols team is pretty good, themselves, and I expect them to give Wichita a run for their money.

NFL THURSDAY NIGHT PLAY

** SAN DIEGO  +10.5   at    DENVER

Phillip Rivers has just looked outstanding this year, yet his team has been very inconsistent, and that's why they are sitting at 6-7.  They are very much still in the play-off picture, though.  Their defense has really been the problem, in my opinion, although they haven't looked all that bad at times.  Well, they have some confidence, due to some good football being played, lately, and they always want to put it to this divisional foe.  I think the fact that they have a game on the Broncos this year, and Wes Welker is sitting out, that they have a very good chance in this game.  I will go ahead and take all those points, though.

NFL WEEK 15 PLAY

* JACKSONVILLE  +2  vs   BUFFALO

This could be one that you will have to sweat through, but I like the way the Jags have been playing lately and I think it will continue.  They have been playing like a 7-9 ball club, and if they win out, their record will be just that.  They have won 3 in a row now, and are playing for some motivation to roll over into next year.  They have had extra time to prepare for this game and the Bills are on their second straight road game.  I also think that Buffalo has looked like a mess lately so I'm rolling with the Jags and the 2 points.

PREDICTED  SCORE : JAGUARS 20  BILLS 16

SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

                                           MIZZOU  +1.5  vs   AUBURN

I really do like picking this game and I have been very successful throughout the years with being able to determine the winner ATS.  I think this is a great spot for Missouri.  If I were them, I would love the fact that no one is talking about us.  I have been listening to sports media all week and it's like people are automatically crowning Auburn as SEC champs, just because they beat Bama.  I know that it's the No.1 team, but it's also Auburn's arch rival, and a lot of crazy things can and will happen in those type of games.  I think people are over reacting to this one game.  I will say that Auburn's rushing attack is for real, but their defense is not that great at all.  You can say they are a team of destiny, because they have found ways to win and have come from behind to do so six times this year. I see it as escaping some of those losses. Just don't forget that they got whacked around by LSU, who beat them by two TD's in September.  I don't remember teams of destiny in college football having that happen to them.  These two teams are very similar in that they have great rushing attacks that include several guys, including the QB, that can run on you.  I think that Missouri has been a little more impressive and can play better defense.  This team has only lost one, like Auburn, but it was in 2OT's and they didn't even have their starting QB, Maty Mauk, for that game, and it was to a top SEC team.  C'mon man!

PREDICTED SCORE : MIZZOU TIGERS  38  AUBURN TIGERS  34    No action here

COLLEGE HOOPS MOCK PLAY

WEST VIRGINIA  +7   at   MIZZOU

I think the Tigers may be a little over rated right now sitting at 7-0.  This Mountaineers team can play, as usual, and I like their chances for a possible upset tonight.  It should be a tough match.  I am also calling this one of my mock plays.  I am using this basically as practice, for I probably won't start laying real action until like January.

WEEK 14 NFL PLAY

** KANSAS CITY   -3(-120)   at     WASHINGTON

Well, it seems as if you need to get back on track, the team to play is the Washington Redskins.  The Chiefs have now lost three in a row, and need to get back on a winning streak to secure a decent play off spot, or one at all, for that matter.  We have seen their offense struggle to score on a consistent basis, proving that they aren't really a true contender.  They are still a pretty good team, and their offense didn't look too shabby scoring 28 on Denver last week.  If a team needs to get their offense going, Washington's D is the perfect kind to do it against.  I see K.C. getting back on track and taking advantage of a bad team.  I got this at -3 for -120 juice on my site.  Those cockrags.  Go ahead and lay the 3.5 or whatever it will be, because you'll probably get the normal -110.

PREDICTED SCORE : CHIEFS  31   SKINS  13

NFL WEEK 13 PLAYS

** NEW ENGLAND  -7.5   at   HOUSTON

I have been watching and analyzing pro football for a long time, and I think I can tell when a team is packing it in.  I really think the Houston Texans have been doing just that lately, too.  They lost to Jacksonville at home and only scored 6 points.  They are the biggest mess in football, and are performing like the league's worst team.  I know they may have some fierce competitors on this team that will play hard in this game, but as a TEAM, they have gave up and are finished.  One of their so called leaders, WR Andre Johnson has pretty much came out and said he doesn't want to be here, and left the field before the game was over a couple of weeks ago.  What a piece of crap.  If anyone else I know just leaves work, because they're having a bad day, might get written up or fired. Well, good luck Texans, because now you are hosting a team on a real high right now, that has a ton of confidence, and is coming off a huge comeback win vs the league's top team. I think the Pats will be focused and ready to defeat these NFL derelicts on Sunday

PREDICTED SCORE : PATRIOTS  28  TEXANS  10

** ST. LOUIS  +8.5  at   SAN FRANCISCO

This Rams team is HOT, that's all I know.  They've outscored their opponents 80-29 in their last two, and those weren't against pushovers, either.  The Niners have had trouble scoring, also.  I know they are supposed to get Crabtree back this week and Rams RB Zach Stacy is probably going to be out, due to a concussion.  Well, I don't think Crabtree will make that big of an impact in his first game back from his injury.  He isn't built like a solid rock or anything.  I also think that Billy Cunningham, who took Stacy's place last Sunday after he got knocked out of the Bears game, will do fine, considering he rushed for 109 yards on 13 carries and the Rams exploded for 2 TD's in the fourth.  The Rams also know the Niners and usually give them tough game, so that's what I expect here.  They will be playing Frisco, whom is on a short week, so hell, St. Louis could win this one.

PREDICTED SCORE :  20-17  EITHER WAY

NFL PLAY OF THE WEEK - REVISITED

*** SAN FRANCISCO   -4.5   at    WASHINGTON

I just placed action on this play yesterday and it was -4.5, thanks to those who went with Washingtn.

The 49ers have really kind of struggled lately trying to find an offensive identity, but their nasty defense still continues to keep them in close games.  They have dropped the last two in some nail biters, and now find themselves fighting to stay in the wildcard race.  Well, I think Washington is the perfect team to play to get your offense on track, because their defense is terrible.  I also think this is a must win for Frisco and they will play with much urgency, plus they are starting to kind of point fingers in Washington.  They are in the direction of the coaches.  Hello!! These guys are NOT THAT GOOD.  Solid winner here folks.

And I have a new and revised prediction of the outcome.

NEW PREDICTED SCORE : 49ers  30   REDSKINS  14

NFL WEEK 12 PICKS

* MINNESOTA  +5   at   GREEN BAY

The Vikings get to go to Green Bay this Sunday and play the Packers without Aaron Rodgers.  They usually play Rodgers twice a year and actually already got whacked by his Packers 44-31 in Minnesota a few weeks ago.  My boy, Christian Ponder will be starting again, and I don't think he's discouraged from throwing 2 INT's last week against the league's top defense.  I think this guy is actually a decent young player and I think he will have a good game against this depleted Packers D.  I expect the Vikings, just like I would for any other division foe of Green Bay, to take full advantage of not playing Rodgers and beat them and their third string QB.

PREDICTED SCORE : VIKINGS 24  GREEN BAY 21

* ST. LOUIS  -1.5   vs   CHICAGO

The Rams have been playing inspired football for the last few weeks.  I'll go back to their 14-9 MNF loss to the best team in the NFC, Seattle.  Then a 28-21 barn burner loss to the Titans, and then they kind of just exploded out of nowhere and destroyed the Colts two weeks ago.  Rookie WR Tavon Austin woke up and broke out for 3 TD's in that last game, and I expect more where that came from.  I think the Rams are going to start playing like they should have been all year, which is a competitive team.

PREDICTED SCORE : RAMS 27  BEARS 20

** ARIZONA  -2   vs   INDIANAPOLIS

The Cards have been great at home this year only losing to the Seahawks just once.  The Colts have not been able to develop a running game, and that could be very tough to win with going against a team that slows down your passing game.  Carson Palmer has been talking like he likes this team and is very confident in his offense right now.  The Cardinals are 6-4 now and starting to get better on offense and have a great secondary.   I say it continues this weekend.

PREDICTED SCORE : CARDINALS  20   COLTS  17

NBA PICK

GOLDEN STATE    at    UTAH   OVER 196

Once again, these are mock picks that I guess I am kind of using as practice for this seasons investments.  I won't get started with some action until about Christmas/New Year's time.  Golden State's offense is so explosive, its funny.  The last two times these two teams played the total went under, and one of those was just two days ago.  I just really think it's do to be a bit higher scoring this time.  I mean c'mon.  It's the Warrior's.

NFL WEEK 11 PICKS

         THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

* INDIANAPOLIS   -3    at     TENNESSEE

Andrew Luck and the Colts have never lost two in a row.  Yep. That's right.  The guy is 7-0 following a loss in the NFL so far.  They usually play very well after losing.  For example, after their last loss at San Diego, which they didn't even score a TD in, the next week, which was a short one also, they played an excellent game vs Denver.  So even though the Colts looked terrible last Sunday vs St. Louis, I think with their hands on the steering wheel of this division, they come out strong tomorrow night, and win an important divisional game.  Tennessee may be 4-5, but it seems as if some of their players think it's over, judging by Delaney Walker's comments in the locker room after losing to Jacksonville.  He was saying "C'mon man."  "We lost to the Jaguars, at home."  "We aint talking bout first place no more."  That sounds like he thinks they don't have a chance at this division.  Well, with that attitude and their first string QB out for the season, they probably don't.

PREDICTED SCORE : COLTS 24  TITANS 16

* DETROIT  -2   at    PITTSBURGH

The Lions are on a role, and I think they are going to win their second straight road game.  That's somewhat of an accomplishment for this team.  Now, the Steelers have played decent at times this year, but they are not good, and it's because of their defense and pass protection.  They have had a depleted O line all season and I think they will have problems with Suh and Co. this weekend.

PREDICTED SCORE : LIONS 24  STEELERS 20

NBA PICKS

I'm calling these mock picks, because I'm not taking action, although I would do so.  I think the beginning of the NBA season is a time for learning and getting acclimated with all the teams.  I think right around after Christmas and the new year is a good time to start searching for winners, but there is definitely money to be made at this time.

OKLAHOMA CITY  -3   at    DETROIT

MINNESOTA  -4   vs   DALLAS

NICK SABAN STAYING PUT

I am now starting to hear more and more about Saban seeming to act like if there was one place he'd leave Alabama for, it's definitely Texas.  Please!  You may hear on sports talk shows that say things like if Saban's agent is speaking with Texas, then he is interested in possibly leaving, it's not like he hasn't skated before.  I completely understand them thinking this, but I really don't think Nick Saban is going anywhere.  His focus right now is on week 11 vs LSU, because he's doing his job, and his agent's focus is on finding more money, because that's what he gets paid to do.  I would think neither one tells the other how to do his job, either.  So Saban's agent is just doing his job trying to find a better offer for Nick.  These agents are like sharks in suits, and they swim around just looking for more flesh.  I think Saban is actually happy with the program he has, and doesn't really have a need to upgrade, because there's really not much higher to go.  He will, however, be getting more money from Bama, because that's what his agent is trying to get by talking with other interested candidates. He's just getting Alabama where he wants them and that's willing to give more and more.  Saban will stay with Alabama.  Mark my words.

NFL WEEK 10 PLAY

** SAN FRANCISCO  -6.5   vs    CAROLINA

In my opinion, I think the 49ers are one of the best teams in the league, and could be one of the last standing in January again.  I think their first half of the season has been pretty impressive, despite getting blown out twice.  I think it has been far more impressive than Carolina's.  Yes, the Panthers have been hot, but they also have beaten up on a bunch of crappy teams.  Their defense is impressive, but I believe that they are flawed on the offensive side of the ball.  Cam Newton is having a good year, but I also think he's more prone to giving the ball up than Colin Kaepernick.  The Panthers also only scored 6 points in Arizona this year.  The Niners have been really hot, as of late, and I think they have just looked better than Carolina, and I don't think it's that hard to see. I also like the fact that Aldon Smith will be back from rehab this week, and I just think that the Niners have more. I think that this game will be a tough match, but with coming off the bye and playing at home, I believe San Fran will be able to show that they are the better team in this match up.

PREDICTED SCORE : 49ERS 24   PANTHERS 14

COLLEGE FOOTBALL THURSDAY NIGHT GAME

OREGON  -10   at   STANFORD

I'm just going ahead and making a prediction here, as I am too timid to take action, but I do see a possibly good 7 1/2 point teaser bet for the Ducks and the over.  It would be something like -135 juice and it would be Oregon -2.5 parlayed with over 54.  I think this particular Duck team, may just be the best they've had yet.  They are unstoppable on offense, now that Mariota has a full year under his belt, and they can rush the passer and get turnovers.  It's kind of scary how good they've been this year.  I know Stanford is a really hard place to play, and their D is still good, although not as good as last year, but Oregon won there 2 years ago when the Cardinals had Luck.  They won that game 53-30, too.  This team could be the real deal due to the fact that Mariota is more complete, and just outstanding this year and they take away the ball a good bit, giving it back to their explosive offense.  Just remember they won a few games this year without D'Anthony Thomas, and didn't miss a beat.  I would take the Ducks here and to play in the National Championship, although Florida State looks sort of unstoppable themselves.  Too bad they won't have the new 4 team play-off system in place, because someone is going to get hosed this year.


PREDICTED SCORE : DUCKS 41   CARDINALS 27

NFL THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PLAY

** MINNESOTA  +2   vs   WASHINGTON

Minny seems to me as if they are due for a win, and the Washington Redskins seem like just the team for them to be able to beat at home.  The Skins have not been good on the road, going 1-3 so far, with the only win being at Oakland, where everyone wins.  Minnesota has been pretty bad but they have been through different QB's and have to be pretty pissed about their last game where they got some bad calls by the refs, and barely lost to the Cowboys.  With their original leader, Christian Ponder back, I think they are just due to win this game.  I know, Ponder sucks, but so does this Redskin defense.

PREDICTED SCORE : VIKINGS 31  REDSKINS  28

COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAY

** LSU  +12.5   at    ALABAMA

Now, here is a match up that I can safely say I know a little bit about.  I am 4-0 ATS in this match up since '07.  I stayed away in '09 and last year, but I also called the upset in '10 when LSU beat them at home as 7 point underdogs.  I think, once again, that the Vegas odds makers are giving LSU too many points for the third year in a row.  This game has been kept within 10 points since the Saban vs Miles series began in '07.  I really don't understand the line.  Do they not realize that LSU usually plays their best game of the regular season vs Bama?  I know this LSU defense is not that good, but you should expect them to play up for this game.  I think this game is going to be really close.  I could definitely see Zach Mettenberger making one stupid mistake that costs his team the game, as well.  Alabama has not had one scare all year, and I think this just may be the time.

PREDICTED SCORE : CRIMSON TIDE  35  TIGERS  27

NFL PLAY

* PHILADELPHIA. Pick em.at.  OAKLAND

 Nick Foles is starting at QB for the Eagles and I think he's their best option, plus Philly has been good on the road this year.(3-1). Does anyone know when the last time Oakland has won two in a row?  I know its probably been years.

NBA PLAY

Try to get em back with this one...

* NEW ORLEANS. -4.   At.  ORLANDO

NBA PLAY

* BROOKLYN.  -3.   at CLEVELAND

NFL WEEK 8 PREDICTION

CLEVELAND  +7.5   at   KANSAS CITY

The Browns were looking pretty good before their QB Brian Hoyer got hurt.  The last two with Brandon Weeden, weren't so good.  Now, they bring in a veteran back up in Jason Campbell, who can handle pressure and manage games well.  Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe, is a game time decision due to a groin injury.  Well, I say let him play because Browns CB Joe Hayden has shut down pretty much every team's top receiver he's faced this season.  I think Cleveland's D can put up a fight against K.C.'s offense, which isn't explosive, and Jason Campbell can manage this game and make few mistakes.

PREDICTED SCORE : CHIEFS 13  BROWNS 10

ANOTHER NFL WEEK 8 PICK

* NEW ORLEANS   -11   vs    BUFFALO

I really don't understand how people could be betting on Thad Lewis in the Dome vs Drew Brees, but they are because this line has moved from 12.5 all the way to 10.5 on some sites.  Well, Jimmy Graham is listed as questionable ans may not play, but Lance Moore will be back in the line up, and he's one of Brees' favorite weapons.  Cam Jordan is questionable, also, but will probably play.  The Saints are also 4-0 off of byes, since 2009, when they started using Drew Brees' method of taking extra time off.  The Bills also have some injuries coming into this game, with C.J. Spiller being doubtful.  They have a starting LB out and a banged up DT, on a defensive line that has been pretty good.  I just think Brees' and the Saints offense will just be too pumped and ready to go, making it very difficult for anyone to stop.

NEW PREDICTED SCORE : SAINTS 30  BILLS  13

NFL WEEK 8 PLAY - REVISITED

** ARIZONA  -3    vs    ATLANTA

The Falcons didn't look all that great, coming off their bye this week and defeating the Bucs 31-23 at home.  You can't really expect that much, when they have zero running game and their two most dangerous weapons are gone.  The Cardinals haven't been all that bad this season, especially at home.  Their secondary is pretty tough, and I see this week as an opportunity for them to shine.  With no running game for the Falcons, it will be difficult for them to pass on Zona, being that Harry Douglas is their No. 1 WR.  I see Matt Ryan throwing some picks and the Cardinals defense coming up in this one.

PREDICTED SCORE : CARDINALS 20   FALCONS 9

So it has been brought to my attention that Atlanta RB Steven Jackson will return from his injury this week.  So I guess I take back what I said about them not having any options in the running game.  That doesn't change my opinion, because without Jones and White on the field Arizona's defense can key more on Jackson.  However, I do have a new predicted score.

NEW PREDICTED SCORE : CARDINALS 26  FALCONS 16

ANOTHER NFL PICK FOR WEEK 7

* JACKSONVILLE. +7.5.  Vs.  SAN DIEGO

I know, I know.  I'm picking the Jaguars.  They are bound to win a game, and they covered last week at Denver.  They have a really good chance of beating the Chargers at home this week, considering San Diego is coming off an emotional win, on a short week and traveling from one end of the country to the other.  Yes, all that really does help the Jags.  I think they can at least give them a tough game.

NFL WEEK 7 PLAY

** INDIANAPOLIS  +7   vs   DENVER

Peyton Manning is going back to Lucas Oil Stadium to play football for the first time in 3 years, and for the first time, it won't be for the Colts.  I think the fans of Indianapolis will welcome Peyton back with kindness and great gratitude, because he is still involved in their community and gave them some great years.  They really don't have much to be frustrated about, because ever since Andrew Luck arrived they've done just fine without Manning.  Now on to the game, I have been saying that the Colts are for real, and I don't judge too much on their road loss in San Diego, where the Chargers have played well this season.  They did hold the Chargers to 1 TD, and got two sacks in the game, continuing to play good defense.  Luck didn't look all that good and they may not have been as focused as they should have been.  It can be difficult to get a young team like the Colts to focus off of an emotional win vs the league's top team, and right before a match up as big as this one is.  All I know is that the last time the Colts lost a game, they smashed the 49ers the next week on the road in a spot where Frisco had never lost under Harbaugh.  I believe this young team will regroup and play a great game, much like they have at home all year, and all time with Luck(9-2@home) and the defense will come to play.  I think Mathis, a former teammate of Manning, will have a sack at least.  The guy was averaging almost two a game going into last game and was held to none vs the Chargers.  In my opinion, the Broncos secondary is bad.  It's been suspect since previous seasons, and Von Miller will be back from his suspension, but that probably won't help as much as they'll need in this game.  When you give up 48 points, whether or not you play a good offense, or if it is on the road, I think that means you are pretty vulnerable.  If you can bet this up to 7 I think it's pretty safe, although it may move up to 7 itself. So give it a couple-few more days.  I think the Colts can and just might hand them their first loss, though.  I guess it could go either way, but it should definitely be a battle and a very fun one to watch.  Let's face it.  The Broncos are going to lose this year, probably to the Chiefs in Arrowhead, due to their defense at home, but this is a good spot for them to lose also


PREDICTED SCORE : COLTS  37   BRONCOS  34

MY COLLEGE FOOTBALL PICKS

So my record this year for college football picks following this weekend is 1-5.  Ouch!  That's down right awful.  Well, on my behalf, I did lose these 5 games by a total of 21.5 points ATS.  That's only by an average of 4.3 points a game ATS.  Whatever...I lost, even though one was a back-door cover that lost by a half point, which in my opinion is not a bad decision made by the handicapper.  The fact of the matter is that it's not a good one either.  College football regular season has never really been my specialty.  I really was brave going against Mariota and the Ducks yesterday and I failed to realize that Bowling Green played Florida within 14 points last season, and they had a really good defense.  Mississippi St, not so much.  Well, I have decided to hang it up for the season.  Wouldn't you if you were 1-5?  YOU probably wouldn't.  I haven't been able to identify many winners on this level so far this season, but will try again when the championship games and bowl games are upon us.  I am usually pretty good at finding some winners there.  So for those who would like to rub it in and talk your shit,(Wermo The Sportsbook Slayer), go right ahead.  Here's you time.  I know you love to see me lose.  I am still 8-2-1 in NFL picks this year, because that is my specialty, and I hope to keep it coming with the winners there.  As for college I would like to reiterate that I think LSU will be on an upset alert next week at Ole Miss.  I know the Rebels have lost 3 in a row and LSU looks like a much better team, but this is one of those rivalries where the records get thrown out of the window.  Ole Miss, for some reason, tends to play their best game of the year vs the Tigers.  Just last year, in Tiger Stadium, the Rebels nearly had it won, but Odell Beckham Jr. returned a punt, I believe, for a TD within the final minute.  LSU 41-35.  I think this year the Rebels might get 'em.  They will probably be getting like 7 at home.  I like that, but won't be taking it, and of course it will most probably win.  Oh well.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL PICK

* WASHINGTON  +14(-120)   vs   OREGON

I went and bought this up to +14 to be extra safe, but I don't think I'll need it.

The Oregon Ducks are averaging well over 50 a game this year, as usual, and playing good defense as well.  It's almost kind of crazy to go against them even with the generous spreads the odds makers have them laying to teams.  The Washington Huskies haven't beaten them in 10 years, but I do like their team this year, with all the upperclassmen that they have, and this could be coach Sarkisian's best team yet.  They also play very good football when they are at home.  Just last year they gave Stanford one of their two losses of the season in Washington.  Now, Oregon isn't going to cover every week.  I know there are some who think they will, and I can appreciate that, because they probably will go like 10-2 ATS, but someone is going to play them close.  This is a great scenario for a team to play them close.  I think the Huskies are sick and tired of losing to this team and really think they can pull off this upset at home.  Well, I guess we will have to wait and see, but I do think they can make it a game.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL WEEK 7 PLAY

** MISSISSIPPI ST   -11    vs    BOWLING GREEN

Not too many people are paying any attention to this game, but I think when Miss St gets the chance to play an inferior team, they will take advantage of it, because it doesn't happen that often.  The Bulldogs were outclassed last week by the LSU Tigers, and this week it's time to do that to their opponent.  Bowling Green is a pretty good program, but I don't think they are on the level of any SEC team, especially the Bulldogs, because they aren't that bad.  They are well coached and have some talent, but are just a bottom to mid feeder in the SEC.  Although they may not be better than many in their conference, I do believe they are much better than the Bowling Green Falcons.

PREDICTED SCORE : BULLDOGS  45   FALCONS 21

ANOTHER NFL WEEK 5 PICK

* NEW ORLEANS  -1   at   CHICAGO

I know the Saints are on a short week and that coach Sean Payton has never won a game with the Saints in Soldier Field, but there's a first time for everything.  I think this is a favorable match up for the Saints and I think coach Payton owes these guys one on their home filed.  The last time the Saints went to Chicago was the 2008 season and they lost a close one.  Well, a lot has changed since five years ago.  I think with the way the Saints pass rush has been playing, they will definitely get to Cutler and be able to force some turnovers.

PREDICTED SCORE : SAINTS 27  BEARS 23

A GAME TO THINK ABOUT -

INDIANAPOLIS +3  vs   SEATTLE

It seems as if Seattle will have a case of jet lag this week, considering they traveled all the way to Houston last week, then back home, then to Indianapolis on Sunday.  I also think the Colts are a real team and they play great at home.  I like the way their defense is playing and the Hawk's offense is not explosive at all.  Seattle did fair alright last year in the playoffs in a similar situation traveling to D.C., then back home and then to Atlanta, but they did lose to the Falcons.  I do believe they could win this game, although it will be tough, and I do see this as a good spot for them to lose to a solid team on the road.  No action here.

PREDICTED SCORE : COLTS 24  SEAHAWKS 21

NFL WEEK 5 PLAY

* DETROIT  +7   at   GREEN BAY

I placed something very small on this game, but before I did, the line moved from +6 to +7.  That's fine by me, because the game could come down to that.

The Lions looked very good last Sunday vs the Bears, now that they got their X factor on offense back.  Reggie Bush looked better than ever, once again, rushing for 139 yards on 17 carries for a TD, and also catching 4 balls for 34 yards.  The Packers are coming off a loss and a bye week, so they will be more than ready, but that doesn't help their defense against this high octane attack from Detroit.  The Lions have also played decent football on the road in Green Bay in the past.  They have tons of confidence and fire power right now, it doesn't matter where they play.  Maybe Green Bay even gets this one, I just think the Lions will be tough to beat.

NFL PLAY

* WASHINGTON. -3.  AT. OAKLAND

ALABAMA vs OLE MISS ATS

So this week's match up between the Rebels of Mississippi and the Crimson Tide of Bama seems to be one of the most interesting of the college football weekend.  Now, who would have known that going into this year? Anyone?  Ole Miss plus the points couldn't be a hotter play, either.  The betting line started off at Ole Miss plus 17.  For those who don't know, when a wager is placed on a certain side, the line goes up or down, whatever the case would be to favor the opposing side.  The ole Miss line has gone all the way down to 15, meaning a lot of money has gone on Ole miss to cover.  A lot of people will tell you to go against the betting public, because they usually lose.  That is pretty far from the actual truth, and I don't care about percentages in this case.  What are you going to do, bet all the games where you see the line move?  That's nuts and kind of dumb sometimes.  I mean, why can't you have a mind of your own?  What these little squirrels don't realize is that sometimes "the public" consists of very sharp bettors who bet on sports and make a very fine living doing so.  Sometimes these guys put substantial amounts of money on a game and it moves the line a lot.  I'm talking millions and millions total of money bet by sharps on one single game.  Now that's how you make money son!  I called Ole Miss as my sleeper in the SEC and I thought going into this season  that they could give Bama a tight game, maybe even a scare.  I think Ole Miss's offense looks a little better than I expected and their defense is going to get better, I believe.  It could start this week because they have an extreme challenge in their way.  I'm sticking with my theory that Ole Miss is a real competitor in the SEC and college football all together.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL WEEK 5 PLAY

** OLE MISS  +17   at   ALABAMA

Whenever a team gets a bye week, it can always be used as a slight advantage because of the extra time off for rest and preparation.  When facing a certain animal, such as the Crimson Tide, it's almost imperative to have it.  Well, not every team gets it, except for Lucky Les Miles and the LSU Tigers, and now Ole Miss has had their bye before going to Alabama this Saturday night.  The Rebels hung with the Tide last year for almost three whole quarters, and were leading.  That was last year, and I think the Rebels have a good bit more now.  As for Alabama, their defense doesn't look like its as disciplined as last year.  Ole Miss' offense is a lot to deal with now with the addition of true freshman WR Laquon Treadwell, and the improved play by duel threat QB Bo Wallace.  I believe the Rebels will put up some points here and lead in the  first half, like last year.  I see this being a scare for Bama, hell, I wouldn't be all that surprised if the Rebels pulled off an upset.  Although, I won't count on that.


PREDICTED SCORE : CRIMSON TIDE  34   REBELS 27

NFL THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK

* KANSAS CITY  +3   at   PHILADELPHIA

I'm going to pick this team again for a third straight week for several reasons.  One is because Andy Reid may seem to know a little bit about the team they are playing.  I also think the Chiefs defense is good, especially their defensive line, who will get after Vick in this game.  I think he may just look more like the QB we saw play last season.  I expect at least two or three turnovers from the Eagles.  The Chiefs do have some key players banged up, who are questionable, but will probably play, so not too much action here.  Kansas City will start getting the respect they deserve if they can get this one on the road.  I do think Reid will want to put it to this team and the whole city, and I think he just might be able to.

PREDICTED SCORE : CHIEFS  24  EAGLES 20

NFL MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PLAY

** CINCINNATI  -6   vs   PITTSBURGH

The Bengals are looking to bounce back after their opening week loss at Chicago last Sunday, and I see them doing just that.  The Steelers have pretty much owned them for a long time now, but this team doesn't seem to have much of an identity on offense and their defense is pretty old.  Pittsburgh is also missing several players for this game, so this is a great opportunity for Cincy to really put it to them, and I think it's safe to assume they desperately want to.  I like the Bengals big here.

PREDICTED SCORE : BENGALS 27  STEELERS 10

NFL WEEK 2 PICKS

* N.Y. JETS  +11.5   at    NEW ENGLAND

The Patriots defense has not seen very much at all on Jets QB Geno Smith, and that could be to N.Y.'s advantage on Thursday night.  It also may help that the Patriots won't have those big TE's on the field or WR Danny Amendola, who is much like Wes Welker.  Rex Ryan and his defense will probably be licking their chops, considering most of the two games per season they've played this team they've had to worry about those positions for the Patriots.  Well, not tonight, and their new QB could make some plays to throw the Patriots off.  I see this being a close game.

*** KANSAS CITY  ML(-160)   vs    DALLAS

When the Chiefs have a good squad, Arrowhead Stadium can be one of the toughest places to play.  I think their defense is going to be good and be able to force some turnovers and they happen to be hosting a team who can dish them out.  Plus, Andy Reid knows a little bit about beating Tony Romo.  Chiefs RB Jamal Charles is questionable, but will probably play.  Maybe we could see some of the rookie from Arkansas, Knile Davis, whom I think could carry his weight.  I believe this will be a very close game but I say Kansas City starts 2-0 this year.

PREDICTED SCORE : CHIEFS 27  COWBOYS 24

COLLEGE FOOTBALL WEEK 3 PICK

* UTAH -3  vs    OREGON ST

I think the Utes are really on the upswing this year and I see the opposite for the Beavers.  Oregon St lost to Eastern Washington in the opener and beat Hawaii by 19.  This Utah team will be seeking revenge from last season, which was a good one for the Beavers.  I see this one being a dud.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL MONEY PLAY

**** ALABAMA  -7.5   at    TEXAS A&M

This Aggie football team is coming into this game highly rated, and they probably should be, but I think they are kind of due for a reality check.  A humbling for their own good.  Well, they are in luck cause they play a Crimson Tide team seeking revenge with an extra week to prepare.  Saban with extra time can be so dangerous sometimes it's not fair for the opposition. I'm sure they've had this game circled since the first day of spring training.  The Aggies are very difficult to stop, but Bama will be so prepared and focused that Manziel won't know what hit 'em.  Plus, the way A&M has played defense so far, this may be a long day.  They gave up 500 yards to a Confernce USA team, and that's all that needs to be said.  I like this kid Johnny Football, whom I think is extremely gifted but he's also extremely young and now swell-headed for the time being.  It is hard to not be a little conceited when you are very good at something naturally, like Manziel.  He will be given a dose of reality along with his whole team this weekend, I think.  Alabama has lost 3 home games in 5 years and revenged the previous 2.  They covered the spread 1-1 in those games.  LSU,  last year on the road, was one of them.  That reminds me of last year's match up between these two, which Bama played a week after playing LSU and then having to prepare for an offense they had not ever really seen.  Well, they've seen it and experienced it in a difficult spot, and were down 21-0 early, and were still able to come back for a late lead.  I hope you all remember the end. This year will be different in College Station.

PREDICTED SCORE : CRIMSON TIDE 45   AGGIES  24

2013 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS RECAP

I just watched PTI on ESPN and heard Tony Kornheiser talking about how everyone believes the Chiefs are going to be this big sleeper.  "It's not guaranteed"  he said.  "They start off on the road."  Well, no shit it's not guaranteed, nothing is you bald, clown looking cocksucker!  Yeah, they are going on the road to play a team, who has a bad front office, average to below average QB's, and a fan base who could give a shit less about it's team.  He kept saying that they only won 2 games last year.  What a putz.  I seem to remember the 2010 Chiefs, whom I called a sleeper prior to the opener, going from 4-12 in '09 to 10-6 with a AFC Wildcard spot.  That was with the same QB and coach.  When you have a different coach and QB, you pretty much have a whole different team.  They won only 4 games in '09 and Cassel was the QB and had an average year, then went on to have a 27 TD 7 INT season in '10.  I'm not sure how the hell that happened.  He completely stunk up the place last season.  Alex Smith is going to come in and probably have his best NFL season yet, and it will be because Andy Reid knows how to run an offense.  This guy is a great coach and will make a huge difference.  So to Tony Kornheiser and any other people that think the Chiefs won't be vastly improved in '13, you don't know shit about this league.

2013 NFL PREVIEW

Many of us Real football fans, like myself, are feeling that itch to the extreme right now.  If you are this kind of fan then you know what itch I'm talking about.  I'm referring to the fans who believe that missing football Sunday is like skipping out on church.  So you all may have seen the power rankings for the NFL.  This here is my take on how I see things panning out this year. I think the NFC will be a power conference this year and it starts with the final two play-off teams last year.  San Francisco will still have one of the league's best defenses and they picked up Boldin who is money.  This is really going to come in handy, due to Crabtree's season ending injury, although he could still play late in the year.  I think Anquan Boldin came here to win another ring because he knows he can, and be a big part of the reason why.  Atlanta may not pose as fancy of a record as last year, or start as fast, but I think the additions of Osi and Steven Jackson were of great quality for their needs to put them over that edge to win it.  Steven Jackson has had 8 straight 1,000 yard rushing years and has only been to the play-offs once, but never played for a winning team.  That's right, and I believe a player like him will make the most of this season, because he knows he may not get another chance like this.  They have the best WR core in the league in my opinion, and now have him as an option.  That's kind of scary.  It is also about being healthy and hot at the right time now days in the NFL, so watch out in January.  The Saints look like they are probably going to be unstoppable on offense, once again.  Their defense is a question mark for me.  They need to rush the passer, so Cameron Jordan and Akiem Hicks need to have good years, and they could, especially Jordan.  They also need someone to step up at the safety position and force some turnovers and hit the quarterback.  If that happens, watch out, because they will be dangerous as hell.  Detroit is another team who could have an offense very difficult to stop and with an above average defense, could also do a little damage in this conference.  Green Bay should at least have more balance this year with rookie RB's Eddie Lacy and Jonathan Franklin, who had a monster year last year with UCLA.  I still don't see their defense being too good, so even with the best QB they may just not have enough.  Over to the AFC, I will start with Denver being the most dangerous when healthy, and I think will probably end up making the Superbowl.  Then again, there is always going to be that thought of how may times teams with Peyton Manning have come up short when expected to win it all.  I'm even going back to his college days.  Go do some research on it.  I really could see the Bengals winning their division and making it to the conference final.  I still think the Patriots will be really good, despite their big losses.  I think Belichek will change it up a little this year and be more of a ground and pound offense, much like their glory days in '03-'04.  They have a three-headed monster in Ridley, Vareen and now LeGarrette Blount, who is a big, bulldozing, goal line type back.  Houston will still be a leader in their division and the conference, but I just don't have much faith in their QB to seal the deal.  Andrew Luck and his Colts are still going to be competetive, but I also don't see 11-5 again, but you never know with how good that kid Luck is.  So I'll go ahead and give a little prediction here.

AFC  Wildcard Prediction:

Bengals over Steelers

Texans over Colts

AFC Divisional Round Prediction:

Bengals over Patriots

Broncos over Texans

AFC Championship Game Prediction

Broncos over Bengals


NFC Wildcard Prediction:

I sat down and tried to break this shit down, but this conference is going to be so damn tough and competitive I really just can't predict that much.  There will be key injuries for sure so I guess we will wait and see.  I do know there might be some 10-6 teams that miss the post season, just like last year, hell, 11-5 missing wouldn't surprise me.  I think Detroit could make some noise this year, and the Giants could be back to play-off form.  Dallas has a chance to make it but just expect Tony Romo to come up short in a big, clutch situation. Once again it could be who is most healthy at this time, and lord only knows who that could be.


NFC Championship Game:

San Francisco over Atlanta


Niners win it all and Anquan Boldin could be in the Hall of Fame.  That is all for tonight...

NFL WEEK 1 PLAYS

At last, here we are for week 1 of the 2013 NFL season!  I've waited a while now and been cooking up something in the summer as usual.  If you follow me then you know that I like week 1, which I always have for many years.  So let the games begin...

** CINCINNATI  +3   at   CHICAGO

I expect the Bengals to be even more solid this year due to their overall team depth and the continuing progress of their QB Andy Dalton.  So, don't be surprised to see this team go far and compete for the AFC title this year.

PREDICTED SCORE : BENGALS 20  BEARS 17

**TAMPA BAY (ML)  at   N.Y. JETS

I do expect the Jets to put up a fight in their home opener, but let's face it, their offense is going to struggle this year due to a lack of weapons and poor QB play.  At least they acquired RB Chris Ivory from N.O. who could have a good year.  I see Tampa Bay's defense being much improved and playing stingy this year.  I think having CB Derrelle Revis will have a big part to do with their defense being better, plus, there is some talent here.  The Bucs just may be able to make that NFC Wildcard in a very tough division because of their defense.  I'm going ahead and taking the Money Line for my own security.

PREDICTED SCORE : BUCS 20  JETS 10

*** DETROIT  -4.5  vs  MINNESOTA

I think this Lions team is going to be good in 2013, and you may just have to watch out for them in the NFC North division.  I think their offense is going to be a high octane machine.  They have a three-headed monster in the backfield with RB's Mikel Leshore and Joique Bell and now Reggie Bush, whom is going to make this offense dynamic, in my opinion.  They lost a lot of games last year, but played in a bunch of close ones, so they should definitely be back and better than ever.

PREDICTED SCORE : LIONS 38  VIKINGS 21

***** KANSAS CITY  -3.5  at  JACKSONVILLE

I will start by saying that the Jaguars fans do not support their team the way an NFL team needs to be and I think they should just move this team already.  I'd say Oklahoma City because they would definitely support it and are probably dying to have a team.  Their front office has been poor, even though they just got a new GM.  They still have a so-so QB in Blane Gabbert.  The guy pretty much sucks. Not too much improvement on defense, which was terrible last year.  They still have MoJo, who has been injured and not getting any younger.  One of their top WR's, Justin Blackmon will be sitting this game due to a 4 game suspension.  As for the Chiefs, I see them coming out strong this year and having a play-off caliber team in 2013.  For my followers, you may know they are my sleeper team.

PREDICTED SCORE : CHIEFS 30  JAGUARS 17

THURSDAY NIGHT COLLEGE FOOTBALL POWER PLAY

                2013 COLLEGE FOOTBALL OPENER

 **** OLE MISS   vs   VANDERBILT

I'm taking the Rebels and laying a point or taking the Moneyline, which ever is cheaper.  There is no ML available at the moment, but I have been contemplating this victory for a couple months now and just know that Ole Miss is getting this one.  This will be sweet revenge for last year at home when the Rebels blew a 23-6 lead to go on to lose 27-26 to the Commodores on a late TD catch by Vandy WR Chris Boyd.  Well Boyd and four other players have been suspended for rape charges.  Maybe this means Mississippi has a little raping to do themselves come Thursday night.  I sure hope so, but I don't expect this to be easy because Vanderbilt has been tough under coach James Franklin and this is a home opener for them.  They did lose their starting QB and RB who accounted for a big part of the offense last year, but still have stud WR Jordan Matthews, who had over 1,300 yards receiving last year.  The Commodores are bringing back 7 starters on offense and 6 on the defensive side which should still play pretty stingy.  I think this could be a damn good year for Ole Miss, though, so everything is in their favor in this game, if you ask me.  They bring back 19 starters from last year, which was a promising 7-6 season for a younger bunch.  They also bring in a top 5 recruiting class, which includes top recruit DE Robert Nkemdiche, who could be a baby Clowney, and JC transfer DT Lavon Hooks, who could be good.  I expect their defense to be much improved as well as their QB Bo Wallace, whose starting his second time around in Division I.


PREDICTED SCORE : REBELS 24   COMMODORES 16

2013 COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW

So this year's preview is a little different because it will change up from here and then, because it all depends on how I preview the season, and last year I did rankings as predictions on how teams would finish.  This year I just have my personal preview for the season, and it starts with stating that Alabama will most probably win a third in a row, because if I've ever witnessed a dynasty in any sport, they were much like this current Crimson Tide program.  Their QB A.J. McCarron came back to finish his senior year for a reason, and I think this guy is on a mission.  He threw a whopping 30 TD's and only a mere 3 INT's last season, and I think that is super impressive in just about any conference you play in.  They have their top three wide outs from last year back, including Amari Cooper, who had 59 catches for 1,000 yards and 11 TD's.  They get back TB TJ Yeldon, who I think could be a great ball player, and Dee Hart who was hurt for mostly all of last year.  They will have less of an offensive line than they did last year, but last year's just might have been the best in history, so less is not so bad.  They return seven starters on defense and have mostly upperclassmen guys who will probably plug right in just fine. They will always have a really good defense with the best defensive coach in college football, in Saban.  Most of all, they are the closest thing to an NFL team you will see, and be honest with yourself, who else is going to beat them this year?  Moving on to who I think they could play in the BCS Championship game.  Ohio State, who will have Heisman hopeful, QB Braxton Miller and a good returning offense, could be a candidate, but only 4 starters coming back on defense, and I think that is ok, because Urban Meyer may be the second best coach in college and they play a non-difficult schedule for a contender.  Their toughest games will be Michigan and Michigan St this season. Now you should know why they are a potential candidate.  I believe Georgia lost too much on defense, plus QB Aaron Murray is very good but showed an inability to close last year, and Mark Richt usually comes up short in high expectation type seasons.  I do think that their first game at Clemson could be one of the best games to see this year.  Both of these teams are going to have great offenses and Clemson QB Tajh Boyd is another serious Heisman candidate.  I really don't know how to call it other that it's going to be close.  I think the Tigers have a great chance, and I think they'll win the ACC this year and possibly have a special season.  By that I mean they go to the BCS final game and get smoked by Bama.  I really don't see LSU doing that much this year, due to the big losses on defense and offense, and I don't have big hopes for new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, because the dude didn't do shit in either league he's coached in.  I see at least three losses for the Tigers this year, and also see their opener vs TCU being tough.  Notre Dame will be good again, getting a BCS bowl game.  Oregon is another team who could possiibly be a BCS Championship contender, because they have the same offense, with a really good QB.  Everyone seems to be saying to watch out for Florida St this year, and I just think that's hard to say without knowing how their redshirt Freshman QB Jameis Winston will look like.  I expect them to be good just not great.  While on the topic of Florida teams, I will say that I don't expect too much from the Gators.  They do have talent, but I am still not sold on QB Jeff Driskel or the coaching staff, although they should still be tough, due to the talent they get.  So this seems to be all I have to say for the upcoming College Football season.  I see Alabama repeating again, and I'm not really sure who will play them, but they probably won't have that great of a chance to beat them, whoever it may be. I guess I'll go with the Buckeyes, because they have a Heisman trophy candidate and a great coach.  Stay tuned for some college picks, and if there's any team you would like me to shed light on just add a comment.  Enjoy the season....I know I will!

THE 2013 ARIZONA CARDINALS - A TEAM TO NOT BE CAUGHT SLEEPING ON

The Cardinals started off strong last year with a 4-0 start that actually looked somewhat promising the way that their defense was playing.  The fact of the matter was that they didn't have their best offensive lineman in left tackle, Levi Brown.  I also think that their whole offensive line was way too young and inexperienced.  The whole team continued to become more unhealthy as the season went on so the result was a 1-11 finish and a final record of 5-11.  Well, let me just tell you that I can see why people would sleep on this team, because they brought in a guy that I thought was done last year to play quarterback.  I think I was wrong, because Carson Palmer seems to have a little bit of good football left, due to seeing him throw 4,000 yards and 22 TD's with 14 INT's last season for a pretty bad Raiders team.  The O line gets T Brown back and becomes more savvy, plus first round draft pick G Jonathan Cooper from North Carolina could be of some help.  I also think it will help that their backfield will be loaded in 2013.  First off, they picked up Rashard Mendenhall from the Steelers, whom I think has some good football left as well.  They drafted RB Stepfan Taylor from Stanford, who I think could be the most underrated back in the whole draft.  I watched this kid play for the Cardinals in college and he's a hell of a player and ready for this league, and what a steal in the fifth round.  Arizona also still has Ryan Williams at RB, who still hasn't been healthy enough to show what he can do, but has talent.  Now Carson has one or two more seasons to prove he can still play and compete in this league, and he's got a gift from God to throw to.  I think you can expect second year WR Michael Floyd to step it up this year, and don't forget the little white boy from Texas A&M, rookie WR Ryan Swope.  Now for defense, I think they are going to be pretty darn good.  They drafted LB Ryan Minter who should be able to shine a little in his first season, and if you're not too baked like he used to be, you may remember CB Tyrann Mathieu.  Cardinals CB Patrick Peterson, in my opinion, is due to have a break out season this year, and the fact that he will be mentoring his pal from college, much like he did at LSU, they will make a dangerous duo.  I also like fourth round draft pick, DE Alex Okafor from Texas, and RB Andre Ellington from Clemson, not to get off the subject of their defense, but I mean I just think they really loaded up this off-season.  They picked up CB Javier Arenas from the Chiefs and S Yeremiah Bell from the Jets, as well as LB Jasper Brinkley from Minnesota and CB Antoine Cason from San Diego.  I really don't think they lost anyone important, like Kevin Kolb or Beanie Wells, and even Adrian Wilson, due to the fact that he's in his twelfth year.  Looking at their schedule, I do see playing these NFC West teams twice a challenge, because the defenses in this conference are tough, and every game should be competitive.  Week one at St. Louis is going to be fought tooth and nail until the end, in my opinion, and I don't even know how to call that one.  The home opener vs the Lions should be tough, because I see Detroit having a more dynamic offense with Reggie Bush in the mix.  At the Saints is always really hard, as well as on the road again to Tampa Bay, whose defense should be good this year.  At home against Carolina is very winnable, but then at the Niners, then home to Seattle and then the Falcons just makes things much more difficult.  They get their bye after that, thank God, and then host Houston, which I think they can win and then maybe get on a roll.  They have the Colts at home after that, then at Philly, Rams at home, at Tennessee and Seattle again, then the home finale vs San Francisco. Last, but not least, I believe Bruce Arians will be a good fit for this team as their new head coach, and that's all I'm going to say about that. I will give this team about 8 maybe 9 wins, but it's because of their brutal division and tough schedule they play.  Do not, and I repeat, do not sleep on the Arizona Cardinals in 2013, for they could be a dangerous team to play.

2013 OLE MISS REBELS - A SURPRISE TEAM IN THE SEC

• Let's start at the very top of this football team with Coach Hugh Freeze.  Coming in last year brand new with the Rebels, after the two prior with Arkansas St, which he had a 20-5 overall record with, I would say Freeze did a pretty dang good job for this team.  What was called by the coach a rebuilding year turned into a winning season, which included a 38-17 Compass Bowl victory over Pittsburgh to cap off last season. One thing about having a solid rebuilding year to be more prone to having a stellar one in the next is playing hard and fighting in games, much like Ole Miss did in '12.  They lost  four games by six points or less, and hung with Alabama until late in the third quarter, which they were up in, but went on to lose 33-14.  They were competitive in the SEC last season if you don't count the 37-10 loss to Georgia, who was really good last year.  So for this year I expect the mighty Rebels to be a team to be reckoned with in college football and strongly compete in the toughest conference.  Looking at their schedule I see them opening up on the road in Vanderbilt, a team they loss 27-26 to last year, with a win, because this is revenge, the Commodores are losing their QB, and the Rebels will be clearly better in my opinion.  For their home opener, I think it's safe to assume they will breeze by SE Missouri St.  Now the next game, in Texas, they aren't looking at such an easy task, and this is somewhat due to the fact Texas blasted them 66-31 last year, and I believe the Longhorns will have themselves a team.  One thing that will help them against their next opponent, the one and only Crimson Tide, is that they do have a bye right before.  I really think they can give Bama a true scare.  I said scare, so please don't confuse that with me saying that they will win.  At Auburn is a win, Texas A& M I see a potential loss, then I really do see them winning vs LSU in the next game.  This is one of those bitter rivalries that the Rebels seem to play their best in usually and it's at home and they were a late return for a TD away from slicing LSU by a point last season.  Then after that it just becomes cake, I think.  Idaho, a bye, then Arkansas, Troy, Missouri at home and at Mississippi St.  I'm projecting 9-3, and I won't be surprised to see 10-2, possibly.  The professional odds makers have their win total going off at 8.5, and they seem to know a decent bit.  Now moving on to the players, I think their QB, Bo Wallace, who came in as a JC transfer, will be much improved in his Junior year in '13. He threw  22 TD's completing 63.9 percent of his passes, but did throw 17 picks.  He was also a dual threat adding 390 yards rushing on 143 carries.  As for RB's, they are getting their top two back with Senior leader Jeff Scott who rushed for 900.  Their top three receivers are back also, who are pretty big guys, including leading receiver Donte Moncrief , who is 6-3 215 lbs and had 66 catches for 979 yards and 10 TD's.  The team is bringing back 10 starters on defense, which wasn't that good last year.  They are bringing in some new defensive lineman, such as top national recruit Denzel Nkemdiche at DE.  This kid could be something.  They also have a JC transfer Lavon Hooks who could be promising as well, along with junior returning sack leader C.J. Johnson.  I will also mention that they have a top 10, and even top 5 recruiting class on most rankings coming in.  I read that the coach says they still a few years away from having the depth they would need to win the SEC, and I can appreciate that, but he did underestimate what they had in the beginning of last year.  So I will go ahead and say that the Ole Miss Rebels are definitely my surprise college football team for 2013, and am predicting at least 9 or 10 wins, so watch out SEC!

2013 NFL SLEEPER - KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

• For the very few real NFL fans that don't know what a sleeper is, it's a team that not many people at all project to do much.  As for the Chiefs in 2013, I know there are some analysts out there that are stating them as their surprise team, also, but they did only win two games in '12.  I can safely assume a lot of NFL experts are willing to give them anywhere from 7 to 9 wins predicted this year.  I'm gonna go ahead and give them 10, so they are definitely my surprise NFL team this year, because I'm also predicting a wildcard.  First off, they have a new coach and QB, and that right there should tell you they will have a completely different look in '13. Both of these guys have proven they can win and make a difference for a football team.  Andy Reid, in my opinion, is an unbelievable coach, and got ran out of Philadelphia for some reasons that were maybe out of his control.  This guy only missed the play-offs about 5 times out of the 13 years he was there as the Eagles head coach.  Now Alex Smith can just flat out play, and maybe he's not the kind of player Colin Kapernick is, according to the 49ers and myself, but this guy wants to win.  He just lost his job last year when he didn't deserve it.  I think that has boiled him up and fueled him and I truly believe he's out to prove himself for his new team, and everybody if that. Smith is also at the peak of his career and playing his best football as of late, because honestly, he doesn't make too many mistakes at all.  I think I am predicting he will have about 24 TD's and 6 INT's in '13.  Last year Matt Cassel had just 6 Td's and 12 INT's.  When your QB plays that bad, not only does it make your offense terrible, but your defense suffers a great deal as well.  This team has weapons.  Let's start with one of the best RB's in the league, Jamaal Charles, who had 1,509 yards rushing last year, averaging 5.3 yards a pop, and scoring 10 TD's.  They still have a good scat type RB in Dexter McCluster.  I believe Dwayne Bowe is in the top 10 for receivers in the NFL, and with a good QB now could break out.  With the addition of Donny Avery from the Colts, and rookie RB Knile Davis from Arkansas, I think this offense will score.  The defense brings back some very solid guys like CB Brandon Flowers, SS Eric Berry, DE Tyson Jackson, and the explosive OLB Tamba Hali.  I think that CB's Dunta Robinson and Sean Smith will add some additional help.  Rookie T Eric Fisher from Central Michigan and DB Sanders Commings from Georgia should be pretty good, in my opinion.  The Chiefs were just bad last season, but this is a year in, year out kind of league, and they did have some poor coaching and Qb play that was down right pathetic, so they really have patched those two issues up.  Looking at their schedule, I just know this team can win 10.  They go on the road week 1 to play Jaksonville, and I think this one will look easy, because it should be.  Then Dallas at home will be tough, but definitely winnable, because we all know Tony Romo and that bozo coach.  I really do think that going on their first road game in Philly will be a win. This could be a big one, because Philly won't be too good and Andy wants more than anything to stick it to those people.  Wouldn't you?  Then the Giants at home will be challenging, as well as at Tennessee, but once again, are winnable.  Oakland at home, then Houston at home, which should be a loss.  Cleveland at home could be a sure win, and at Buffalo as well.  The Chiefs get their bye in week 10, then go to Denver, who should be the division leader, as well as the big cheese of the AFC.  San Diego is next in Arrowhead, then they go to Washington, then to Oakland to play the RAIDERS!  They finish off the season with Indianapolis at home then on the road to play the Chargers.  I definitely see 10-6 happening next season for Kansas City, as well as a wildcard spot in the AFC play-offs.  The professionals in Las Vegas have the Chiefs win total going off at 7.5 and I just think that's sort of low for a team who I believe should have high expectations internally. It's not that unlikely for a 2-14 team to completely turn it around the very next season in the NFL. We have seen it before.

NBA FINALS GAME 7

At last, here we are.  Game 7 of the NBA Finals, once again, and what a ride it has been to get to this point.  It's been nothing but back and forth, with knock-out punches being thrown from both sides.  I really did think the Heat were done when they were down 12 late in the third of the last game.  This was because they had opportunities to score and just weren't finishing.  Then, all of a sudden, Lebron James just kind of awoke and started playing like he wanted the game more than anything.  Much like a champion.  Then the whole team came together and played like winners.  Now for the Spurs, they were so, so close to grabbing that trophy that night and may have exhausted themselves trying that hard to get it.  I will say that Tim Duncan may just be the best PF of all time.  I mean overall productivity, clutch play and that he is one of the best teammates to have.  He was unbelievable on Tuesday, but after playing those 45 minutes, it's very unlikely he'll have a game near that good tonight.  So, have the tables turned since 8 years ago?  Just maybe.  I'll never forget the second best game in the Finals that I ever watched, which was the 2005 Finals Game 5, Pistons vs Spurs in Detroit.  Can you guess which Finals game I thought was the best?  Anyway, the Pistons dominated most of this game, until the last few minutes when San Antonio took over and Robert "Big Shot Bob" Horry was wide open in the last seconds to hit that dagger 3 to give the Spurs a one point victory.  Detroit went on to extend the series to 7, but were out of gas on the road and the Spurs had the best player(Tim Duncan) on the court.  Well, it looks as if I may get to see sweet revenge on San Antonio because now they have to go on the road for a game 7, which they may be  completely exhausted in, and the other team has the best player.  Some people are saying that if Wade doesn't step it up that the Heat won't win.  I disagree, because one, he's banged up, much like it has seemed for a while now, and I believe others like Haslem, Bosh and Birdman will.  Now, one thing is for sure, and that is that Lebron must play with the same aggressiveness and energy that he played with in the fourth quarter of Game 6, and I think he will because he wants it.

PREDICTED SCORE : HEAT 93  SPURS 87

NBA FINALS TAKE

So it appears that I have, once again, underestimated the San Antonio Spurs, and this time I feel the dumbest for doing so.  This may be because I have never liked them, although I have always had a tremendous amount of respect for their whole entire organization.  I really can't explain my disdain for this team.  I just can't.  Maybe it's because they are kind of boring, being that they've always been a defensive, fundamentally playing team, or maybe because they beat my beloved Pistons in 7
in '05.  I've been wanting revenge for that so bad, and I've been wanting and waiting for these bastards to just go away, and they STILL haven't.  Well, in no way do I think this series is over, due to the fact that the Heat play their best in this spot and will most probably extend the series tonight.  If Lebron plays aggressive in Game 6 and 7 and gets help from his Big 3, they will win this  series, but with the way it has gone so far, it has been back and forth, and Coach Pop has continued to make the necessary adjustments.  This is why each team has failed to beat the other twice in a row and it could continue that way on Thursday night.  

NBA FINALS PLAY

* MIAMI  +2   at   SAN ANTONIO

I think this will be a tough, hard fought game, but it's like I said, I really don't see the Spurs being able to get another one in this series.  I wouldn't be too surprised if they are able to steal one more, but I don't see it being this one.  Maybe Game 4 or 5.

PREDICTED SCORE : HEAT  95  SPURS 89

HEAT vs SPURS

I'm not going out on any limb here at all by saying that I think the Spurs are done.  They pretty much stole Game 1, meaning that Miami should have won, without even playing all that well.  After seeing the Spurs get annihilated in the last 15 minutes of last night's game, I think you can kind of tell just by the way they got dominated that they don't stand a chance.  This was really due to the fact that Miami found it's groove last night and showed how good they really are.  The Spurs also showed that they really can't keep up with this team, and Manu Ginobli is DONE!  THANK GOD!!!  I'm saying that this series is done.  That's right.  The Spurs will lose the next three at home, because their dynasty is and has been over.  This kind of reminds me of the 1991 Finals when Jordan and the Bulls played the Lakers.  The Lakers stole Game 1 by a very small margin in Chicago, and then got blown out by, what do you know, 19 points in Game 2.  The Bulls never looked back and finished them 4-1 and that was the complete end to that Lakers dynasty.  I see a great similarity here in this series.  Good luck and good-bye Spurs.  FINALLY!!!!

NBA FINALS 2013

Well, I'd like to start off by saying that I was wrong about the Memphis Grizzlies.  I thought it was a good valued bet at anywhere from 7/1 to 13/1 odds to get to the Finals, but with no 3 point shooting ability and a lack of speed, that just wasn't possible this year.  I'll also say that I underestimated the Spurs, but I also don't want to overestimate them now that they've made the Finals.  They haven't won a championship or even made one in 6 years, but with the fact of how old their stars are and that they are here now is very impressive.  Let's not get over our heads now, because they have to play the Heat, which ARE a great team.  Leave all opinions aside.  They won 27 in a row this year and 66 total.  The only team who had a slight chance of beating them was the Pacers, due to the fact that it was just a bad match up for Miami.  Guess what, though?  They still couldn't beat them, and it's mainly because they have the best player and he is unstoppable.  Tim Duncan is not the player he was in 2007, but can still play defense.  Manu is not even close to the same player as he was, but Tony Parker is still great. Well, we'll see how great he is when Lebron covers him.  I'm going with the Miami Heat to win this series 4-2, as I see San Antonio having no answer for Lebron.  That's because no one does.

NBA PLAY-OFFS

I really do think it's quite apparent, at least to me, that it's going to be Memphis vs Miami in your NBA Finals this year.  I think the Grizzlies will finish the Thunder off in 5 or 6 and then move on to the Spurs, but who knows what will happen in that series.  I would just pick the veteran team to beat the young, and a little less deeper team.  So I think Memphis would take the Spurs or Warriors in 6. Moving on to the East, just like I've thought all year, Miami is a sure shot to win this side.  Even if Dywane Wade doesn't come back or is unhealthy, I think they still win the whole thing.  I can't really say who's going to win the Knicks vs Pacers series, but many may think Pacers, but NY is talented, although the toughness contest is being won by Indiana.  So for the Champonship series, which could be better to watch than you would think, Grizzlies vs Heat.  I think some games will be good to watch, considering Lebron is playing, and he's the best player on the planet.  I'd think something like Miami in 4 or 5.

NBA PLAY

          NBA WESTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS GAME 3

* GOLDEN ST  -2.5   vs   SAN ANTONIO

The Spurs now have to  travel to Golden St where the Warriors have been hot and have pretty much owned San Antonio this season, which is much like the first two games of this series.  I think Golden St will take the upper hand in the series in a tough and probably high scoring game tonight.

BULLS vs HEAT

Well, looks like I couldn't have been more wrong about last night.  Miami was a little rusty in Game 1 and needed a game to make some quick adjustments and completely out match the Bulls last night, and it really looks like it will probably go 4-1 Miami.  While I'm on the subject of this Chicago team, I just want to say to Derek Rose that you are showing a bit of lack of commitment to your team.  This is due to the fact that you are more committed to yourself and worrying about the future of your career, which isn't the team.  Real leaders worry about the team first and foremost, and it's one thing if you're not cleared to play but the team's doctors, whom the Bulls pay lots of money to, have said you are ok to play.  The Bulls organization also still pays you a lot of money and you're not  even going out on the court.  That's bull shit, and I wish everyone who is would stop taking up for this dude saying he is totally committed to the team.  Yeah, maybe when he's on the court he is, but this is the fuckin play-offs and your leader is ok'd by the doc to play and he's sitting. NO EXCUSE YOU SELFISH, POOR EXCUSE FOR A TEAM LEADER, let's not forget, SACK OF USELESS SHIT.  The Bulls should just move on without this dude, I mean they're not going to get past the Heat this year for sure anyway and Derek Rose has nothing to do with it.

NBA PLAY

                 NBA EASTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS GAME 2

* CHICAGO +13   at   MIAMI

I'm glad to see everyone thinks the Heat can just blow this team out.  They have struggled to do so all year.  The Bulls have continued to give the Heat fits beating them 9 out of the last 17 meetings including 2 of their mere 4 home losses this year.  I think Tom Thibodaux continues to do an excellent job coaching this team and they play as tough as anyone in the league, especially on defense.  This series may only go 5 games, but I expect them all to be fairly close.  I definitely expect the Heat to win tonight, but I also expect it not to come easy.

NBA PLAY

                NBA EASTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS GAME 2

* MEMPHIS  +2.5    at    OKLAHOMA CITY

In my opinion, the Thunder basically stole Game 1 from the Grizzlies.  Memphis pretty much dominated the whole game, and OKC just hung around in the end and their star player hit a huge last minute shot.  I'm not at all surprised, although I like the Griz in 6.  Memphis was red hot coming into this series and just got cooled off a little.  I expect them to get this one on the road tonight and most probably win games 3 and 4 also.
       

NBA WESTERN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSSHIP

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES  to win it.

The odds for the Griz to win the West just went from 13/1 to 7/1 as of this morning due to the result of Game 5 in the Memphis vs L.A. series last night.  I put my bet in a couple days ago and I think it was a good outside choice, and the odds makers are now coming closer to agreeing with me.  Memphis just took command in the series beating the Clippers in their own house 103-93, taking a 3-2 series lead.  If they win this series they will most probably go on to play Oklahoma City, who's playing without their star point guard Russel Westbrook.  It just looks better and better for the Griz.  They also have a very well balanced team, a really good defense and some very good big men, arguably one of the best in the league in Marc Gasol.  Now, only if they can beat the Thunder I think they may have the Western Conference in the bag, because I pretty much know they can beat the Spurs.  We shall see.  Enjoy.

NBA PLAYS

So I am here today admitting that I was wrong about the Lakers yesterday plus the points against the Spurs in Game 1, but it was close, as they were down by 8 within the last minute and a half.  So I was a basket or two away from going 3-0 yesterday, but I'm not unsatisfied or disappointed.  Big ups to Tim Duncan for his performance, because who would have guessed he'd run up and down the floor on Dwight Howard like that.  That series will go 6 or less games in my opinion.  Now for what I have on deck for today and tomorrow


* L.A. CLIPPERS  -6   vs   MEMPHIS

I think the Clipps have the Griz figured out and Memphis really has no answer for L.A.  I think they could still get a game, but on the Clippers court tonight I think it will be a lot like Game 1.  I think Memphis will slow the pace down a little tonight, though.

PREDICTED SCORE : CLIPPERS 102  MEMPHIS 91


* MIAMI  -14   vs   MILWAUKEE

The Bucks are not a good team at all, and it's a shame that they play a 16 team play-offs in the NBA and that they are in it.  I think the Heat could have mopped the floor even more with them and plan on doing so in Game 2.

PREDICTED SCORE : HEAT 117  BUCKS 89

NBA PLAYS

* INDIANA.  -7.  Vs.  ATLANTA

** L.A. LAKERS.  +8.5.  at.  SAN ANTONIO

** OKLAHOMA CITY.  -10.  Vs.  HOUSTON

NBA PLAY

                           NBA PLAY-OFFS

* NEW YORK   -7.5   vs    BOSTON

I see the Knicks coming into these play-offs playing very strong, as they finished the season that way.  This is a team that they pretty much owned in the regular season, not that that always means everything in the post season, but I think the Celtics will miss Rondo in this series.

NCAA MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

                 LOUISVILLE      vs       MICHIGAN

First off I will say this is really a great match up.  In fact, this might be one of the best possible match ups for the final game as we could have seen.  Big Blue Wolverines are hot right now, not to say the Cardinals aren't, but Michigan is shooting the 3 ball better right now and diaper dandy, Mitch McGary, is playing on fire.  Not to mention they have the winner of the best player of the year award, Trey Burke.  On the other hand, Louisville has such a great defense that it's difficult to get into a good rhythm on them.  They too, much like the Wolverines, are a very balanced team, and I think this game is as hard as any to pick.  Just don't be surprised too much if this game gets boring at times, or starts off slow and sort of sloppy, because that's pretty much summing up this season in college basketball.  This should be a very close game and exciting to watch,  at least in the end.  I'll go ahead and give a prediction, although I would advise not to play on a game that really could go either way.  Something in my gut is telling me that Louisville's coach Rick Pitino is just due to win another championship with another team, and this could just be the time.  Looks as if that's so, but Michigan is a very good team too.

PREDICTED SCORE  :   CARDINALS  68   WOLVERINES 63

NBA FRIDAY NIGHT PLAY

* NEW ORLEANS  +8   at   UTAH

Although the play loss by only 3 points and the Hornets played tough and hung in there, I made a mistake picking them +7 the other night vs Golden State.  They really just don't match up well with that Warriors team.  Now, the Jazz are a different story and a different match up.  This is a game the Hornets can definitely win, and with 8 points, I think I like my chances of getting back for Wednesday night's loss.  GO HORNETS!!

NCAA MEN'S FINAL FOUR PLAY

** SYRACUSE   vs    MICHIGAN    UNDER 130.5

These two teams play great defense and given all the sloppy play and low scoring games in college basketball this year, this is a perfect one to go under the total.  They can definitely hold each other to less than 65, but if it goes into OT I may be screwed, but that's a risk I'm willing to take.  I see this game going 58-55 either way.  Now, that would probably favor Syracuse because that's their kind of game and their defense may be the best of them all right now, but big Blue can defend very well also.  Don't know who to pick to win this one.  I kind of lean towards Michigan because they look like a very balanced team, but good luck vs that zone D that the Orangemen play.

NBA PLAY

* NEW ORLEANS  +7  at   GOLDEN ST

Once again, I really do like the way the Hornets have been playing lately. They are one of the hardest playing teams in the league, and if Anthony Davis started the year off the way he's playing now he'd be Rookie of the Year. They have been coming out and finishing games at a level way higher than what their record says.  I think with two days rest and the confidence and swag they have right now they will be ready and prepared to defeat the Warriors on the road tonight.