Saturday is my favorite day of the week this time of year, football's over, baseball has yet to start. That means the big time attraction on television is college basketball, and Saturday is it's biggest day. Memphis goes against one of the tougher C-USA opponents in their attempt to get to 25-0, Indiana tries to ignore the controversy as they host #9 Michigan State, and 19 of the top 25 teams play today. Without further adieu, lets get to today's picks.
#17 Connecticut (19-5, 8-3 Big East) at South Florida (11-14, 2-10 Big East); 12pm EST: The Huskies picked up a big win vs. fellow Big East ranked team Notre Dame on Thursday, and South Florida pulled of an upset of Syracuse on the same night. South Florida can keep it very close, but I believe Jeff Adrien will come out with a big game to help the Huskies win their 9th straight.
My Prediction: Connecticut 59-56
#8 Georgetown (20-3, 10-2 Big East) at Syracuse (16-9, 6-6 Big East); 12pm EST (ESPN): Georgetown hopes to keep its hold on the top spot in the Big East as they face a struggling Syracuse squad. The Orange have lost 2 straight, a close one to UConn and then an embarrassment at South Florida.
My Prediction: Georgetown 68-58
Virginia Tech (14-10, 5-5 ACC) at #5 North Carolina (23-2, 8-2 ACC); 1pm EST (CBS): The Tar Heels have struggled as of late, but should have no trouble against a Hokies team that's having problems of their own.
My Prediction: North Carolina 92-73
Colorado (10-13, 2-7 Big XII) at #3 Kansas (23-2, 8-2 Big XII); 1:45pm EST: Kansas should roll as they try to rebound from a tough road loss to Texas.
My Prediction: Kansas 92-59
Minnesota (15-8, 5-6 Big 10) at #14 Wisconsin (20-4, 10-2 Big 10); 2pm EST: Tubby Smith has done a good job turning around the Golden Gophers program, but this is a team that has no marquee win to get themselves on the bubble. Wisconsin took them by 16 in Minneapolis earlier this season, and they shouldn't have too much trouble today.
My Prediction: Wisconsin 73-52
Cleveland State (17-10, 10-5 HOR) at #10 Butler (23-2, 12-2 HOR); 2pm EST: Cleveland State shocked Butler in the first meeting, but has gone just 3-5 since that game. Butler on the other hand has gone 7-0 since the loss, and are undefeated at home on the season.
My Prediction: Butler 74-57
#15 Drake (22-2, 13-1 MVC) at Northern Iowa (15-10, 7-7 MVC); 2:05pm EST: Drake clinches a share of the MVC title with a win, and they won't drop their second in a row.
My Prediction: Drake 67-60
#4 Tennessee (22-2, 9-1 SEC) at Georgia (12-10, 3-6 SEC); 3pm EST: Upset of the weekend right here. Sundiata Gaines will shine for the Bulldogs.
My Prediction: Georgia 66-65
Florida (19-6, 6-4 SEC) at #19 Vanderbilt (21-4, 6-4 SEC); 3pm EST: Vanderbilt's coming off a dismantling of Kentucky, but Florida will play them much tougher. This will be one of the more exciting games today.
My Prediction: Florida 101-98 (OT)
#7 Stanford (20-4, 9-3 Pac-10) at Arizona (16-8, 6-5 Pac-10); 3:30pm EST (ABC): Stanford looks to avoid a second consecutive loss and goes for the season sweep of the Wildcats. This could be the first time Stanford swept the season series since 2003-2004.
My Prediction: Stanford 71-60
Oklahoma State (12-12, 3-7 Big XII) at #16 Texas A&M (20-4, 6-3 Big XII); 3:30pm EST (ABC): Texas A&M goes for its 6th straight win against a weak Cowboys team. A&M took them down earlier this season by 3 points. Look for freshman DeAndre Jordan to come up big.
My Prediction: Texas A&M 73-62
#23 Purdue (20-5, 11-1 Big 10) at Northwestern (7-15, 0-11 Big 10); 4pm EST: Purdue should see a big climb in the rankings as long as they avoid an upset at the hands of Northwestern. They are coming off a big win over Michigan State to avenge their only Big 10 loss from earlier this season.
My Prediction: Purdue 60-49
#11 Texas (20-4, 7-2 Big XII) at Baylor (17-6, 5-4 Big XII); 6pm EST (ESPN): Baylor looks for a big win to help their resume in this matchup. Texas is set up for a letdown coming off a big win against Kansas and now heading on the road. Curtis Jerrills is one of the best players in the Big XII.
My Prediction: Baylor 93-84
Missouri (14-11, 4-6 Big XII) at #22 Kansas State (17-6, 7-2 Big XII); 6pm EST: Missouri upset K-State earlier this season despite not having their leading scorer. They won't have him again as he was let go from the team for legal problems and missing classes. I don't think they can pull it off on the road this time.
My Prediction: Kansas State 73-64
#1 Memphis (24-0, 10-0 C-USA) at UAB (17-7, 7-2 C-USA); 8pm EST: Expected to be one of the tougher games left on the schedule for Memphis as UAB is no pushover. I think Memphis stays focused and picks up the win.
My Prediction: Memphis 69-48
#9 Michigan State (20-4, 8-3 Big 10) at #12 Indiana (20-4, 9-2 Big 10); 9pm EST (ESPN): Indiana steps out of the controversy and picks up a huge win, Eric Gordon shines.
My Prediction: Indiana 80-64
#20 Washington State (19-5, 7-5 Pac-10) at Oregon (15-9, 6-6 Pac-10); 9pm EST (FSN): Oregon comes close but can't pick up a much needed win over a ranked team.
My Prediction: Washington State 75-71
#21 St. Mary's (21-3, 8-1 WCC) at Loyola Marymount (5-20, 2-7 WCC); 11pm EST
My Prediction: St. Mary's 74-41
Last Night: 1-1
Season: 17-8
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Rams Player Suing Pats For Damages
A former Rams player is suing the New England Patriots for damages caused by the rumored game taping the Patriots did throughout the week preceding the Pats 20-17 win over the Rams in the 2002 Super Bowl.
Willie Gary is suing the Patriots, Robert Kraft, and Bill Belichick for $100 million bucks. This is pretty comical in my opinion, but say that the tapes are produced and somehow, Mr. Gary wins this lawsuit. This would give the Rams the right to sue the Patriots for all the money lost after the Super Bowl, with merchandise, etc. Heck, Kurt Warner could sue them for derailing his career!
Willie Gary is suing the Patriots, Robert Kraft, and Bill Belichick for $100 million bucks. This is pretty comical in my opinion, but say that the tapes are produced and somehow, Mr. Gary wins this lawsuit. This would give the Rams the right to sue the Patriots for all the money lost after the Super Bowl, with merchandise, etc. Heck, Kurt Warner could sue them for derailing his career!
What a Show!
If you're into modern rock and Finch is nearby, go check them out. The opening bands weren't anything special, but Finch put on a great show. I had a great time and so did my friends, and I actually ran into an old soccer teammate. Check them out online too.
Also, I noticed a very interesting post on PeteAbe's Blog about Jorge Posada supporting Roger Clemens. Posada was a longtime battery mate of Clemens and may be a little bias in his opinion, but this is what he had to say:
“I’m supportive,” Posada said. “He says he never took it and I’m behind him 100 percent. Rocket is one of my favorite teammates ever. It doesn’t take anything away from what he did. For me, he’s the best pitcher I ever caught and it doesn’t change that.”
Even though it's hard to believe McNamee, it's even harder to believe the Rocket. We'll probably have some even better quotes when Andy shows up on Monday.
Tonight's a slow night in college basketball, as most Friday's are. Other then Ivy League games, there are 6 D-I teams playing tonight (including 2-22 North Florida). One of the games involves 2 ranked teams, but the others aren't anything special. I'm from Capital Region New York, home of the Siena Saints (MAAC), so since there isn't much else I'll predict the one MAAC game tonight as well.
#24 Pittsburgh (19-5, 7-4 Big East) at #25 Marquette (17-6, 7-5 Big East); 9pm EST (ESPN): Although it's the only ranked game tonight, it should be a very good one, as these are two solid teams jockeying for position in the Big East standings. This one should come down to the wire (even without Levance Fields), but I think that Dominic James and co. should pull it out.
My Prediction: Marquette 66-63
Marist (15-10, 9-5 MAAC) at Manhattan (9-15, 3-11 MAAC): Manhattans in a rebuilding mode after having a few years near the top of the MAAC, and Marist is on an upswing. The Red Foxes are sitting 3rd in the MAAC, behind Rider and those Siena Saints. This Marist team is much better then their record shows, and I think they'll prove it tonight.
My Prediction: Marist 68-58
Last Night: 2-1
Season: 16-7
Also, I noticed a very interesting post on PeteAbe's Blog about Jorge Posada supporting Roger Clemens. Posada was a longtime battery mate of Clemens and may be a little bias in his opinion, but this is what he had to say:
“I’m supportive,” Posada said. “He says he never took it and I’m behind him 100 percent. Rocket is one of my favorite teammates ever. It doesn’t take anything away from what he did. For me, he’s the best pitcher I ever caught and it doesn’t change that.”
Even though it's hard to believe McNamee, it's even harder to believe the Rocket. We'll probably have some even better quotes when Andy shows up on Monday.
Tonight's a slow night in college basketball, as most Friday's are. Other then Ivy League games, there are 6 D-I teams playing tonight (including 2-22 North Florida). One of the games involves 2 ranked teams, but the others aren't anything special. I'm from Capital Region New York, home of the Siena Saints (MAAC), so since there isn't much else I'll predict the one MAAC game tonight as well.
#24 Pittsburgh (19-5, 7-4 Big East) at #25 Marquette (17-6, 7-5 Big East); 9pm EST (ESPN): Although it's the only ranked game tonight, it should be a very good one, as these are two solid teams jockeying for position in the Big East standings. This one should come down to the wire (even without Levance Fields), but I think that Dominic James and co. should pull it out.
My Prediction: Marquette 66-63
Marist (15-10, 9-5 MAAC) at Manhattan (9-15, 3-11 MAAC): Manhattans in a rebuilding mode after having a few years near the top of the MAAC, and Marist is on an upswing. The Red Foxes are sitting 3rd in the MAAC, behind Rider and those Siena Saints. This Marist team is much better then their record shows, and I think they'll prove it tonight.
My Prediction: Marist 68-58
Last Night: 2-1
Season: 16-7
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Thursday's NCAA Picks
I'm going to a concert on this Valentine's Day with 2 of my friends. The same 2 and I had movie plans tonight and concert plans for last Tuesday, but snow postponed the concert to tonight. So before I leave (which is within the hour), I'll get my college basketball picks in for tonight. Who called the Salukis' upset of Drake last night? I think it was the real mangenius.
Youngstown State (8-16, 4-10 HOR) at #10 Butler (22-2, 11-2 HOR): One of my friends said he believes Butler wins out and steals a #1 seed. They sure won't do anything to disprove that against Youngstown State.
My Prediction: Butler 63-52
#20 Washington State (18-5, 6-5 Pac-10) at Oregon State (6-17, 0-11 Pac-10): Oregon State's quest to win a Pac-10 game will continue.
My Prediction: Washington State 60-45
#7 Stanford (20-3, 9-2 Pac-10) at Arizona State (15-7, 5-5 Pac-10); 10:30pm EST (FSN): Herb Sendek has done a great job turning around the Sun Devil's program, and could use a win to boost this team's chances for the NCAA Tournament. Stanford, led by the Lopez twins, will be a little too much.
My Prediction: Stanford 62-56
Last Night: 5-3
Season: 14-6
Youngstown State (8-16, 4-10 HOR) at #10 Butler (22-2, 11-2 HOR): One of my friends said he believes Butler wins out and steals a #1 seed. They sure won't do anything to disprove that against Youngstown State.
My Prediction: Butler 63-52
#20 Washington State (18-5, 6-5 Pac-10) at Oregon State (6-17, 0-11 Pac-10): Oregon State's quest to win a Pac-10 game will continue.
My Prediction: Washington State 60-45
#7 Stanford (20-3, 9-2 Pac-10) at Arizona State (15-7, 5-5 Pac-10); 10:30pm EST (FSN): Herb Sendek has done a great job turning around the Sun Devil's program, and could use a win to boost this team's chances for the NCAA Tournament. Stanford, led by the Lopez twins, will be a little too much.
My Prediction: Stanford 62-56
Last Night: 5-3
Season: 14-6
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Finally, It's Over
Glad to see these hearings have finally concluded, despite really no answers. I'm leaning towards the Clemens is guilty of taking steroids approach. Neither man has any credibility anymore, so by process of elimination you go with Pettitte. The second part of the hearings brought nothing at all in my opinion. Waxman (the head chairman) believes that McNamee does have credibility.
One thing I know is this Rusty Hardin character is an idiot.
To tonight's NCAA picks, gotta rush them because I got work....
#18 Notre Dame (18-4, 8-2 Big East) at #17 Connecticut (18-5, 7-3 Big East)
My Prediction: Notre Dame 89-78
#14 Wisconsin (19-4, 9-2 Big 10) at #12 Indiana (20-3, 9-1 Big 10)
My Prediction: Indiana 61-57
Maryland (16-8, 6-3 ACC) at #2 Dook (21-1, 9-0 ACC)
My Prediction: Duke 71-65
#13 Xavier (20-4, 8-1 A-10) at Charlotte (14-8, 5-3 A-10)
My Prediction: Xavier 72-52
Arkansas (17-5, 6-2 SEC) at #4 Tennessee (21-2, 8-1 SEC)
My Prediction: Tennessee 67-52
#15 Drake (22-1, 13-0 MVC) at Southern Illinois (12-12, 7-6 MVC)
My Prediction: Southern Illinois 72-59
Houston (18-4, 7-1 C-USA) at #1 Memphis (23-0, 9-0 C-USA)
My Prediction: Memphis 93-64
and
Kansas State 85 Texas Tech 71
One thing I know is this Rusty Hardin character is an idiot.
To tonight's NCAA picks, gotta rush them because I got work....
#18 Notre Dame (18-4, 8-2 Big East) at #17 Connecticut (18-5, 7-3 Big East)
My Prediction: Notre Dame 89-78
#14 Wisconsin (19-4, 9-2 Big 10) at #12 Indiana (20-3, 9-1 Big 10)
My Prediction: Indiana 61-57
Maryland (16-8, 6-3 ACC) at #2 Dook (21-1, 9-0 ACC)
My Prediction: Duke 71-65
#13 Xavier (20-4, 8-1 A-10) at Charlotte (14-8, 5-3 A-10)
My Prediction: Xavier 72-52
Arkansas (17-5, 6-2 SEC) at #4 Tennessee (21-2, 8-1 SEC)
My Prediction: Tennessee 67-52
#15 Drake (22-1, 13-0 MVC) at Southern Illinois (12-12, 7-6 MVC)
My Prediction: Southern Illinois 72-59
Houston (18-4, 7-1 C-USA) at #1 Memphis (23-0, 9-0 C-USA)
My Prediction: Memphis 93-64
and
Kansas State 85 Texas Tech 71
Buttocks and Lies
Seems like so far, this hearing hasn't answered much at all. I figured I'd post during the fifteen minute break and give a quick recap of what has happened.
Right off the bat, Elijah Cummings attacked Clemens credibility using Andy Pettitte's deposition. Clemens used the approach that he believes Pettitte is mistaken. Tom Davis then came in and went more after McNamee, and used the Canseco party. All the evidence pointed to the fact that Clemens didn't go, but McNamee didn't back down.
The hearing has continued back and forth, and the trend has been Democrats going after Clemens and Republicans going after McNamee. The latest twist is Clemens former nanny remembering being at Canseco's house with Clemens at that weekend. This revelation lead to an outburst from the Clemens lawyer because of the foreshadowing that Clemens and his attorneys tampered with the witness.
John Tierney made Clemens look bad because of all the times he has contradicted himself over talking to McNamee about HGH. Dan Burton was the most brutal, going after McNamee and straight-out saying that Brian McNamee is a liar.
One thing Mark Souder said was in my opinion one of the most interesting things. He said that the depositions that will be released this afternoon will be more damaging then the hearing is. I'm very interested in seeing what the depositions have to bring to the table.
Although this has not solved anything so far, it sure has been interesting. Most of the talk has been about buttocks and lies, and neither side has much credibility. The one person who is credible is Pettitte, who is over on the McNamee side. The outbursts from Clemens crew needs to stop though.
I'll come back with some more after the rest of this happens. I don't see anything being resolved in the hearing, but it is sure tough to see Clemens getting all rustled by this.
Right off the bat, Elijah Cummings attacked Clemens credibility using Andy Pettitte's deposition. Clemens used the approach that he believes Pettitte is mistaken. Tom Davis then came in and went more after McNamee, and used the Canseco party. All the evidence pointed to the fact that Clemens didn't go, but McNamee didn't back down.
The hearing has continued back and forth, and the trend has been Democrats going after Clemens and Republicans going after McNamee. The latest twist is Clemens former nanny remembering being at Canseco's house with Clemens at that weekend. This revelation lead to an outburst from the Clemens lawyer because of the foreshadowing that Clemens and his attorneys tampered with the witness.
John Tierney made Clemens look bad because of all the times he has contradicted himself over talking to McNamee about HGH. Dan Burton was the most brutal, going after McNamee and straight-out saying that Brian McNamee is a liar.
One thing Mark Souder said was in my opinion one of the most interesting things. He said that the depositions that will be released this afternoon will be more damaging then the hearing is. I'm very interested in seeing what the depositions have to bring to the table.
Although this has not solved anything so far, it sure has been interesting. Most of the talk has been about buttocks and lies, and neither side has much credibility. The one person who is credible is Pettitte, who is over on the McNamee side. The outbursts from Clemens crew needs to stop though.
I'll come back with some more after the rest of this happens. I don't see anything being resolved in the hearing, but it is sure tough to see Clemens getting all rustled by this.
It's Showtime in D.C.
Almost 10am, when Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee will testify in the Congressional Hearing. An interesting twist to me is that Jose Canseco said he has never heard from Clemens about taking steroids or HGH. Who has been the most reputable source since all this became big news? Canseco's book has. Maybe it's just my hope that Clemens is innocent, but I take Canseco's word over many people involved in this.
Snow here today, so I'll be inside watching these hearings the whole time. Pitchers and catchers are only a day away, pretty exciting.
I'll be trying to keep a balance between NCAA Basketball and MLB from now on.
Snow here today, so I'll be inside watching these hearings the whole time. Pitchers and catchers are only a day away, pretty exciting.
I'll be trying to keep a balance between NCAA Basketball and MLB from now on.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Clemens is Cornered
I don't see how Clemens can get out of this one unscathed. Pettitte has now backed McNamee a bit (or hasn't shown Clemens support) and it seems like even though fans want Clemens to be innocent, they are having trouble believing it. You know you're in some trouble when people are taking Brian McNamee's word over yours. Such a sad story to see one of the best pitchers of all time fall so far from grace, almost like McGwire did.
Tomorrow should be an exciting day for it, and thank god that we'll finally be getting to real baseball after tomorrow, with pitchers and catchers right afterwards.
Three close NCAA games last night, I really thought Santa Clara was going to pull off the upset. A good Big 10 matchup tonight pits Michigan State and Purdue together. I'll be busy though, going to the movies with a couple friends, followed by House and Nip/Tuck.
#10 Butler (21-2, 10-2 HOR) at Wisconsin-Milwaukee (12-10, 7-5 HOR); 7pm EST (ESPNU): Butler's a team on a roll lately, winning 5 in a row before heading into this matchup. Wisconsin-Milwaukee isn't nearly as talented a team, as it showed in the 16 point loss in the first game between the 2. Butler is 2 wins away from tying its best start to a season, 23-2 set last season. Look for AJ Graves to have a pretty big game.
My Prediction: Butler 74-66
*Game of the Night*
#9 Michigan State (20-3, 8-2 Big 10) at #23 Purdue (19-5, 10-1 Big 10); 7pm EST (ESPN): The game of the night features 2 of the top teams in the Big 10. Purdue finally joined the rankings after beating Wisconsin for the second time this season. Their one loss in Big 10 play is to these Spartans, 78-75 in East Lansing. Since then Purdue has been on fire, winning nine in a row. Michigan State is the best team in the Big 10, and I think this team has what it takes to go to the Final Four.
My Prediction: Michigan State 59-47
Providence (13-10, 4-7 Big East) at #24 Pittsburgh (18-5, 6-4 Big East); 7:30pm EST: Pittsburgh has begun to fall off the map recently, but saved themselves with a last second win over West Virginia. The problems for them have mainly been on the road, where they are 4-4 compared to 11-1 on the road. Providence is a team that probably would have to win the Big East tournament in order to be dancing in March.
My Prediction: Pittsburgh 72-60
#25 Marquette (16-6, 6-5 Big East) at Seton Hall (15-9, 5-6 Big East); 7:30pm EST: A couple of teams who are on the bubble square off in this Big East game. Marquette has much more to lose, as they seem to be a team that should make it, and a loss to a bubble team like the Pirates would be damaging. Seton Hall has plenty of work still left if they want to get into the field.
My prediction: Marquette 64-56
#5 North Carolina (22-2, 7-2 ACC) at Virginia (11-11, 1-8 ACC); 8pm EST (ESPN2): A struggling Tar Heel squad may get an easy one tonight against ACC cellar-dweller Virginia. UNC will once again go with 3rd string pg Quentin Thomas, as Ty Lawson will miss his 3rd (essentially 4th) game in a row. Marcus Ginyard is questionable to play as well, and he has had a share of the point guard duties. Tyler Hansbrough looks to continue his fabulous season. Sean Singletary is really a great player, but he won't be enough.
My Prediction: North Carolina 86-71
Kentucky (12-9, 6-2 SEC) at #19 Vanderbilt (20-4, 5-4 SEC); 9pm EST (ESPN): An interesting SEC showdown caps off the nights action as Billy Gillispie's Wildcats look to further their hopes of making the NCAA Tournament. The team has made a remarkable turnaround and is sitting near the top of the SEC standings. In fact, they are ahead of the ranked team they'll face in this one. Kentucky upset Vandy a month ago at home, and looks to pick up another big win. Vanderbilt is one of the teams I think is very underrated and could be a sleeper come March.
My Prediction: Vanderbilt 88-78
Last Night: 1-2
Season: 4-2
Tomorrow should be an exciting day for it, and thank god that we'll finally be getting to real baseball after tomorrow, with pitchers and catchers right afterwards.
Three close NCAA games last night, I really thought Santa Clara was going to pull off the upset. A good Big 10 matchup tonight pits Michigan State and Purdue together. I'll be busy though, going to the movies with a couple friends, followed by House and Nip/Tuck.
#10 Butler (21-2, 10-2 HOR) at Wisconsin-Milwaukee (12-10, 7-5 HOR); 7pm EST (ESPNU): Butler's a team on a roll lately, winning 5 in a row before heading into this matchup. Wisconsin-Milwaukee isn't nearly as talented a team, as it showed in the 16 point loss in the first game between the 2. Butler is 2 wins away from tying its best start to a season, 23-2 set last season. Look for AJ Graves to have a pretty big game.
My Prediction: Butler 74-66
*Game of the Night*
#9 Michigan State (20-3, 8-2 Big 10) at #23 Purdue (19-5, 10-1 Big 10); 7pm EST (ESPN): The game of the night features 2 of the top teams in the Big 10. Purdue finally joined the rankings after beating Wisconsin for the second time this season. Their one loss in Big 10 play is to these Spartans, 78-75 in East Lansing. Since then Purdue has been on fire, winning nine in a row. Michigan State is the best team in the Big 10, and I think this team has what it takes to go to the Final Four.
My Prediction: Michigan State 59-47
Providence (13-10, 4-7 Big East) at #24 Pittsburgh (18-5, 6-4 Big East); 7:30pm EST: Pittsburgh has begun to fall off the map recently, but saved themselves with a last second win over West Virginia. The problems for them have mainly been on the road, where they are 4-4 compared to 11-1 on the road. Providence is a team that probably would have to win the Big East tournament in order to be dancing in March.
My Prediction: Pittsburgh 72-60
#25 Marquette (16-6, 6-5 Big East) at Seton Hall (15-9, 5-6 Big East); 7:30pm EST: A couple of teams who are on the bubble square off in this Big East game. Marquette has much more to lose, as they seem to be a team that should make it, and a loss to a bubble team like the Pirates would be damaging. Seton Hall has plenty of work still left if they want to get into the field.
My prediction: Marquette 64-56
#5 North Carolina (22-2, 7-2 ACC) at Virginia (11-11, 1-8 ACC); 8pm EST (ESPN2): A struggling Tar Heel squad may get an easy one tonight against ACC cellar-dweller Virginia. UNC will once again go with 3rd string pg Quentin Thomas, as Ty Lawson will miss his 3rd (essentially 4th) game in a row. Marcus Ginyard is questionable to play as well, and he has had a share of the point guard duties. Tyler Hansbrough looks to continue his fabulous season. Sean Singletary is really a great player, but he won't be enough.
My Prediction: North Carolina 86-71
Kentucky (12-9, 6-2 SEC) at #19 Vanderbilt (20-4, 5-4 SEC); 9pm EST (ESPN): An interesting SEC showdown caps off the nights action as Billy Gillispie's Wildcats look to further their hopes of making the NCAA Tournament. The team has made a remarkable turnaround and is sitting near the top of the SEC standings. In fact, they are ahead of the ranked team they'll face in this one. Kentucky upset Vandy a month ago at home, and looks to pick up another big win. Vanderbilt is one of the teams I think is very underrated and could be a sleeper come March.
My Prediction: Vanderbilt 88-78
Last Night: 1-2
Season: 4-2
Monday, February 11, 2008
The Tyler Hansbrough Show
How about that UNC-Clemson game last night? The entire second half + OTs had me on the edge of my seat. Tyler Hansbrough proved once again that he deserves the POY honors, 39 and 13, including 13 points in the OTs. Big win to avoid a 2nd straight loss, and fall into a tie for second in the ACC. Nice way of bouncing back by Ellington too.
Nice to see I went 3-0 on the sport I knew most this weekend, College Basketball. I think I may pick the top 25 games daily from now on.
2 days til the hearings with Clemens/Pettitte/McNamee, 3 days til pitchers and catchers report for the Yankees. More on the Yanks coming up soon.
As for tonights NCAA picks..
Villanova (14-8, 4-6 Big East) at #8 Georgetown (19-3, 9-2 Big East); 7pm EST (ESPN): Georgetown was upset by a very good and underrated Louisville team over the weekend, so it isn't a loss to be ashamed of. However, the team needs to bounce right back with a big win tonight. This is almost a must-win for 'Nova, as they need a marquee win, plus they can't fall 3 games under .500 in the Big East. I just don't think they have the team to beat Georgetown, especially a Hoyas team thats hungry to rebound from a tough loss.
My Prediction: Georgetown 69-53
*Game of the Night*
#3 Kansas (23-1, 8-1 Big XII) at #11 Texas (19-4, 6-2 Big XII); 9pm EST (ESPN): The big game of the night features 2 teams who could be serious contenders come March Madness. Kansas was one of the favorites from the start of the season, and has stayed true to that, with the lone loss to a game Kansas State team. Texas has survived the loss of Kevin Durant and many believe the team to be a better team without him. Sherron Collins will continue the strong play he displayed against Baylor, and that could make a difference.
My Prediction: Kansas 77-68
#21 Saint Mary's (20-3, 7-1 WCC) at Santa Clara (12-10, 4-3 WCC); 11pm EST (ESPN2): Saint Mary's picked up a big overtime win against Gonzaga last time out that put them in a deadlock atop the West Coast Conference standings. However, the team is only 2-3 on the road all season, and haven't proven they can be as good as they are at home. They embarrassed Santa Clara in their first meeting of the season, winning 76-45. There could be some revenge factor in that for the Broncos. John Bryant is one of the better unknown players in college, and I think he could show something tonight.
My Prediction: Santa Clara 65-54
Last Time: 3-0
Season: 3-0
Nice to see I went 3-0 on the sport I knew most this weekend, College Basketball. I think I may pick the top 25 games daily from now on.
2 days til the hearings with Clemens/Pettitte/McNamee, 3 days til pitchers and catchers report for the Yankees. More on the Yanks coming up soon.
As for tonights NCAA picks..
Villanova (14-8, 4-6 Big East) at #8 Georgetown (19-3, 9-2 Big East); 7pm EST (ESPN): Georgetown was upset by a very good and underrated Louisville team over the weekend, so it isn't a loss to be ashamed of. However, the team needs to bounce right back with a big win tonight. This is almost a must-win for 'Nova, as they need a marquee win, plus they can't fall 3 games under .500 in the Big East. I just don't think they have the team to beat Georgetown, especially a Hoyas team thats hungry to rebound from a tough loss.
My Prediction: Georgetown 69-53
*Game of the Night*
#3 Kansas (23-1, 8-1 Big XII) at #11 Texas (19-4, 6-2 Big XII); 9pm EST (ESPN): The big game of the night features 2 teams who could be serious contenders come March Madness. Kansas was one of the favorites from the start of the season, and has stayed true to that, with the lone loss to a game Kansas State team. Texas has survived the loss of Kevin Durant and many believe the team to be a better team without him. Sherron Collins will continue the strong play he displayed against Baylor, and that could make a difference.
My Prediction: Kansas 77-68
#21 Saint Mary's (20-3, 7-1 WCC) at Santa Clara (12-10, 4-3 WCC); 11pm EST (ESPN2): Saint Mary's picked up a big overtime win against Gonzaga last time out that put them in a deadlock atop the West Coast Conference standings. However, the team is only 2-3 on the road all season, and haven't proven they can be as good as they are at home. They embarrassed Santa Clara in their first meeting of the season, winning 76-45. There could be some revenge factor in that for the Broncos. John Bryant is one of the better unknown players in college, and I think he could show something tonight.
My Prediction: Santa Clara 65-54
Last Time: 3-0
Season: 3-0
Friday, February 8, 2008
What to Watch this Weekend
As we come to the first weekend after real football has ended (who watched the Pro-Bowl?), a big question on the minds of football fans is "What am I going to do with my Sunday?" That's where I'll come in, delivering a little of everything for the avid sports fan to have an enjoyable weekend before going back to work Monday.
Saturday
College Basketball
#6 Georgetown (19-2, 9-1 Big East) at Louisville (17-6, 7-3 Big East); 9 pm EST (ESPN): Most intriguing matchup of Saturday's schedule. Louisville is coming off a big road upset of Marquette during the week, and Pitino seems to have his team rolling. A win here would put them on the rankings for sure. Key matchup here is big man Roy Hibbert vs. David Padgett.
Prediction: Louisville 64-59
NBA
Atlanta (21-25) at Houston (29-20); 8:30 pm EST: Not a great slate of games for Saturday, but Atlanta is an interesting team, and Houston's my dark horse pick to make the NBA Finals. Atlanta's 3 game winning streak was snapped tonight vs. Cleveland, so they look to rebound. Yao's playing some of his best basketball.
Prediction: 116-111 Houston
NHL
NY Rangers (27-24-6, 60 pts) at Philadelphia (30-18-5, 65 pts); 1 pm EST: The Rangers are fighting for one of the final playoff spots, and this would be a big road win plus a confidence boost. They've moved ahead of the Islanders and opened a tiny gap over the past week. Philly's having a very good season, but their chances of winning the Cup are slim, does Philly ever win anything?
Prediction: 3-1 New York
Sunday
College Basketball
#13 Indiana (19-3, 8-1 Big Ten) at Ohio State (16-7, 7-3 Big Ten); 1 pm EST (CBS): Indiana barely skated by Illinois in their last game, and although the fans may not be on Eric Gordon as much, the game is tougher against the Buckeyes. Losing Oden and Conley hurt, but Ohio State still looks like a team that should be dancing in March.
Prediction: Indiana 70-60
Clemson (17-5, 5-3 ACC) at #3 North Carolina (21-2, 6-2 ACC); 6:30 pm EST (FSN): This is a battle for 2nd place in the ACC standings, and Clemson looks to finish off what they couldn't at home earlier this season. North Carolina looks to avoid a second consecutive home loss, as they lost to Dook 89-78 Wednesday. The key to this one will be if Ellington and Green are shooting the ball much better. Ellington had his best game of his career when these teams battled for the first time this season. Look for another double double from Psycho T, and I think Deon Thompson has an impact on this one as well.
Prediction: 83-61 North Carolina
NBA
*GAME OF THE WEEKEND*
San Antonio (32-16) at Boston (38-9); 1 pm EST (ABC): The game of the weekend. A preview of the NBA Finals? The defending champs take on the best team in the NBA in what should be a good battle. Tim Duncan should have a big game, but does San Antonio have the depth to stop Boston at this point in time?
Prediction: San Antonio 98-89
Denver (29-19) at Cleveland (28-21); 7 pm EST: Carmelo vs. LeBron in a matchup of 2 teams who hope to pull of an upset or 2 en route to the Finals. Allen Iverson should shine in this one, and LeBron will get his share. Carmelo's been playing some great basketball as well lately, and Denver as a team is playing solid. LeBron can't beat them by himself. I'm calling 40+ points from Melo.
Prediction: Denver 114-94
Don't watch the Pro Bowl folks, it's a waste of your time. Please leave comments and spread the word about my blog.
Saturday
College Basketball
#6 Georgetown (19-2, 9-1 Big East) at Louisville (17-6, 7-3 Big East); 9 pm EST (ESPN): Most intriguing matchup of Saturday's schedule. Louisville is coming off a big road upset of Marquette during the week, and Pitino seems to have his team rolling. A win here would put them on the rankings for sure. Key matchup here is big man Roy Hibbert vs. David Padgett.
Prediction: Louisville 64-59
NBA
Atlanta (21-25) at Houston (29-20); 8:30 pm EST: Not a great slate of games for Saturday, but Atlanta is an interesting team, and Houston's my dark horse pick to make the NBA Finals. Atlanta's 3 game winning streak was snapped tonight vs. Cleveland, so they look to rebound. Yao's playing some of his best basketball.
Prediction: 116-111 Houston
NHL
NY Rangers (27-24-6, 60 pts) at Philadelphia (30-18-5, 65 pts); 1 pm EST: The Rangers are fighting for one of the final playoff spots, and this would be a big road win plus a confidence boost. They've moved ahead of the Islanders and opened a tiny gap over the past week. Philly's having a very good season, but their chances of winning the Cup are slim, does Philly ever win anything?
Prediction: 3-1 New York
Sunday
College Basketball
#13 Indiana (19-3, 8-1 Big Ten) at Ohio State (16-7, 7-3 Big Ten); 1 pm EST (CBS): Indiana barely skated by Illinois in their last game, and although the fans may not be on Eric Gordon as much, the game is tougher against the Buckeyes. Losing Oden and Conley hurt, but Ohio State still looks like a team that should be dancing in March.
Prediction: Indiana 70-60
Clemson (17-5, 5-3 ACC) at #3 North Carolina (21-2, 6-2 ACC); 6:30 pm EST (FSN): This is a battle for 2nd place in the ACC standings, and Clemson looks to finish off what they couldn't at home earlier this season. North Carolina looks to avoid a second consecutive home loss, as they lost to Dook 89-78 Wednesday. The key to this one will be if Ellington and Green are shooting the ball much better. Ellington had his best game of his career when these teams battled for the first time this season. Look for another double double from Psycho T, and I think Deon Thompson has an impact on this one as well.
Prediction: 83-61 North Carolina
NBA
*GAME OF THE WEEKEND*
San Antonio (32-16) at Boston (38-9); 1 pm EST (ABC): The game of the weekend. A preview of the NBA Finals? The defending champs take on the best team in the NBA in what should be a good battle. Tim Duncan should have a big game, but does San Antonio have the depth to stop Boston at this point in time?
Prediction: San Antonio 98-89
Denver (29-19) at Cleveland (28-21); 7 pm EST: Carmelo vs. LeBron in a matchup of 2 teams who hope to pull of an upset or 2 en route to the Finals. Allen Iverson should shine in this one, and LeBron will get his share. Carmelo's been playing some great basketball as well lately, and Denver as a team is playing solid. LeBron can't beat them by himself. I'm calling 40+ points from Melo.
Prediction: Denver 114-94
Don't watch the Pro Bowl folks, it's a waste of your time. Please leave comments and spread the word about my blog.
North Carolina-Duke Thoughts
First off, I'd like to welcome everyone to my blog. My name is Mark Cooper and many people know me as knuckleballerMC in forums, or nuckingfuts3691 on AIM. I've been thinking about starting a blog for some time now, since I'd love to pursue journalism in college. The hardest part was coming up with the name, but I feel that it's a good one.
As I am a giant member of the North Carolina Tar Heel faithful, Wednesday's defeat at the hands of rival Dook was upsetting (yes, thats how I will always spell the Dookies name). I am not the sore losing UNC fan that I have seen so many of, because I thought the refs were bad both ways. Neither team got a huge edge in the calls. This is hard for me to say, but Dook outplayed us.
Sure, Ty Lawson's absence was a factor. The deciding factor, as this group of crazed Dook haters and uneducated Tar Heel fans (not faithful) would try to convince you to believe? Not in my book. Lawson wasn't going to put Ellington and Green's 19 missed FG's in the basket. He wasn't going to play defense on all 5 Dookies. If Lawson is on the court and Ellington + Green have their average games, we're heading towards the #2 rank. I'm not at all a fan of Danny Green, but we'll save that for a later post.
Kudos to Memphis on whooping SMU and remaining undefeated. I see 34-0 in their future, this team seems focused enough and they have some very special athletes.
Less than a week til Yankees pitchers and catchers! I can smell baseball season coming!
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