N.Y. Giants: Steve Spagnuolo's Impact Immediately Noticeable

From the desk of:  DO IT FOR THE DUKE

Short on personnel, the onus is on Steve Spagnuolo 

for creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

NEW YORK GIANTS: Despite losing their season opener, the differences in defensive style between Perry Fewell and the returning Steve Spagnuolo were comfortingly apparent in Game One.

Tony Romo went virtually untouched last Sunday because Dallas' offensive line happens to be very good, but mostly because without JPP the Giants have no pass rush to speak of.

The Giants registered exactly one QB touch all game - ONE, authored by Devon Kennard.  Dallas held the ball for 37:10, while Tony Romo completed 36 of 45 attempts for an 80% completion rate.

By the 4th quarter, the Giants defense was sufficiently gassed.  Their last stand bend-don't-break posture failed to outlast both Dallas and the clock.  Romo easily dinked and dunked his way down field before connecting with, who else but Jason Witten for the winning touchdown.

That's the worst I have to say regarding last week's season opener.

On a more positive note, the Giants defensive style, technique, and overall intensity shouted Coach Spagnuolo is back!  The change in philosophy was clear as the sky is big and blue.  They induced Romo into a pair of INT's, and caused three turnovers overall.

• Dominique Rogers Cromartie had 8 solo tackles and returned an INT for a touchdown.

Unlike Perry Fewell, Coach Spags will blitz, but he'll pick and chose his moments and nail the logistics.  Therefore, I'm giving Coach Spags a pass for calling off the dogs on that last drive.  I just hope last week was a lesson learned in the art of applied aggression.

Otherwise, Coach is being forced to offset the Giants lack of personnel and a pass rush with clever schemes and deception.

The effort against the run was particularly noteworthy.  They recovered one of three caused fumbles. I find it ponderous, though, Dallas would not elect to run more often behind that offensive line.   Nevertheless, the Giants held them to 81 yards on 21 rushes for a 3.5 average gain.

WEEK TWO:

The Atlanta Falcons fly into town still feeling sky high 

after their victory over the Eagles.

After a rather decent performance last week, Prince Amukamara and DRC will be tasked with shutting down Julio Jones and Roddy White.  Their play will largely dictate the Giants ability to mount pressure on Matt Ryan, whom enjoyed as much unmolested time in the pocket against the Eagles, as Tony Romo did against the Giants.

This much is certain: The Giants' defense can not, and should not, spend anywhere near 37:00 on the field this week.  That was arguably a determining factor as to why Dallas marched down field and scored so easily with less than 2:00 to go.

Linebacker Jon Beason is still not ready for a return to action, but the ever lasting question is how long will he last once, and if he does?  That said, I'm thinking Devon Kennard will be Week Two's game MVP.

Let's see.

PIGSKIN 2015: Week Two

PIGSKIN

FOOTBALL SUNDAY

Week Two

RESULTS

Week One

Scoreboard

Week One Record:  11-2

Overall Record:  11-2

Schmear of the Week:  1-0

Bagels in the Basket:  +12

First and 10:

• I'm so high on the Cardinals that I'm considering rehab.  Their defense remains stout against the run, while Carson Palmer is back to complete unfinished business.  I do not see the 49ers posing much of a divisional challenge this season, while last week we saw what happened to the Seahawks minus Kam Chancellor on the field.

Second and Short:

• Like clock work, Pacman Jones was fined after last week's game for ripping someones helmet off and just being a general idiot.  And, he said he just might do it again.  Ndamukong Suh also committed another less spoken of infraction.  These guys wasted no time this season, huh?

No Gain:

• AFC East: Buffalo's deficiencies will shine through Sunday.  There will be no advancement for the Bills this week.  The Patriots will ensure that.  The Jets will additionally flop on Monday night, while the Dolphins will join the Pats atop the division.

Punt:

• See 2nd down > Roger Goodell's pocket change fine levied against Pacman Jones was a joke.   This commissioner is akin to lightning in that he never strikes the same ground twice.  Where's the consistency?

• New uniforms...  They're hideous.

WEEK TWO:

Friday Line ~ NYDN

GIANTS -2 1/2 (Falcons)
ICYMI: 
Steve Spagnuolo's Impact Immediately Noticeable 
A Rushing Mentality Must Flow Through Your Veins 
Look at this spread for a Giants home opener - it's embarrassing!  I'm only taking them at home as a matter of correction.  Hopefully the G-Men pulled their heads out their posteriors after polluting Week One in Dallas with a myriad of bad decisions.  I expect a high scoring game against Atlanta.   Eli will remind the home crowd why he's the MANN.  But, with no pass rush to speak of, Matt Ryan will keep the Giants secondary busy as well.  The Giants ran well against the 'Boys, and should have a better day running against the Falcons.
Loss; 24-20 Falcons

PANTHERS -3 (Texans)
Beware!  I flipped on this pick.  You know what they say - think long, think wrong.  Carolina was underwhelming last week in their victory over the Jags, while the Texans stumbled at home against the Chiefs.  JJ Watt registered 2 sacks in a losing effort.  That makes JJ Watt angry.  That makes Cam Newton a target in his own house.  My mind says take the Texans, so why am I picking the Panthers?
WIN; 24-17 Panthers

SAINTS -9 1/2 (Bucs)
The best part of Tampa's week will be the flight in and out of New Orleans.  The Bucs surrendered 42 points at home to the Titans.  Drew Brees in the Dome is still a dangerous proposition, if you're the Buccaneers that is.
Loss; 26-19 Bucs

STEELERS -6 (49ers)
The continuing demise of the 49ers is an inside job.  Shhhhhhh!  If I were a Niners fan, I'd be furious.  For Big Ben, time is of the essence.  He's going to have an absolutely fabulous game.
WIN; 43-18 Steelers

Lions +3 (VIKINGS)
Full disclosure: I have a complete lack of respect for the Vikings.  This game is more of a crucible for Detroit though.  Now that Ndamukong Suh swims with the Fish, we're going to find out how much killer instinct the Pride has left in their short run of respectability.
Loss; 26-16 Vikings

Patriots -1 (BILLS)
Remember what Bart Scott and Rex Ryan did to the Patriots years ago?  Good times, right? Remember how Rex paid little if any attention to the Jets offense?  If I were a betting man, I'd side with Tom Brady and Coach Belichick the more balanced team.  The Bills will not induce INT's from Tom Brady the way they did Andrew Luck.
WIN; 40-32 Patriots

Cardinals -1 1/2 (BEARS)
I assure you, this won't even be close.  I'm still very high on the Cardinals.  Carson Palmer is back, and he's pissed off.  I think someone in Vegas owes the Cards an apology for this spread.  The Bears will play like mere cubs until John Fox gets some talent and his teachings sink in.  Then tack on another season...
WIN; 48-23 Cardinals

Titans -1 (BROWNS)
Johnny Manziel vs. Marcus Mariota?  This spread tells me take the quarterback with a little bit more of a clue.
Loss; 28-14 Browns

Chargers +3 (BENGALS)
Remember what I said about the Bengals entering the Black Hole last week?  Well, they're back home in Cincinnati where they usually do their worst work in big games.  Their home opener should be no different.  If this were a mid-season home game, I'd think otherwise.  Despite traveling east for an early game, the Bolts will electrify the Bengals and get a big game from Phillip Rivers.
Loss; 24-19 Bengals

Rams -3 (D.C. MULES)
The Daniel Snyder Mules should be an even bigger underdog.  Las Vegas is being way too kind.   Lock horns and run with the Rams.
Loss; 24-10 D.C. Mules

RAIDERS +6 (Ravens)
Tough break for Baltimore - Terrell Suggs is out for the season.  Oakland wants to rebound after last week's wipe out.  They have a good chance to cover, nothing more.
WIN; 37-33 Raiders

Dolphins -6 (JAGUARS)
You're that Land Shark I heard about on the news!  No ma'am, I'm a dolphin.  In any event, the city of Jacksonville will reek of Fish Sunday.
Loss; 23-20 Jaguars

EAGLES -5 (Cowboys)
The Cheese Steaks will not be as generous as the Giants were last week against the Cowboys.  With Dez Bryant out, the Eagles will have an easier time keeping tabs on Jason Witten.  Moreover, Tony Romo will actually face a pass rush this time.  If the Giants managed just one QB touch last week, then Philly will flat out grope Tony Romo.
Loss; 20-10 Cowboys

PACKERS -3 1/2 (Seahawks)
Uh oh!  The Seahawks found out just how important Kam Chancellor is to their defense.  Seattle surrendered 31 points in regulation, and 34 points overall during Week One's loss in St. Louis.   Meanwhile, Green Bay is sure to be uber-motivated for this rematch after last year's NFC championship game loss to Seattle.
WIN; 27-17 Packers

COLTS -7 (Jets) *Monday Night
Last week, the Jets posted their first victory in what I believe will be an 8-8 season.  Monday night, I predict they will post their first loss.  Rex Ryan drew up a winning plan against Luck least week, which means the Jets best chance to beat the Colts this week now works in Buffalo.
Loss; 20-7 Jets


Schmear of the Week:
Cardinals -1 1/2
WIN

Guten Appetit:
Buffalo and Parmigiano style chicken wings, my home made potato salad, home made onion rings, stuffed mushrooms, and (stuff from my garden) salad.  

What's on your football menu?

Good luck, and have a Happy Football Sunday everyone!


Post Game:
Week Two Record:  6-9
Overall Record:  17-11
Schmear of the Week:  2-0
Bagels in the Basket:  +12

Podcast: My Subway Series Preview with Yanks Go Yard

Ricky Keeler of 

YanksGoYard.com

invited me on their podcast to preview this weekend's

 SUBWAY SERIES

A complete breakdown of this weekend's pitching match-ups:

9/18 - Game One; Masahiro Tanaka vs. Steven Matz

9/19 - Game Two; Michael Pineda vs. Noah Syndergaard

9/20 - Game Three; C.C. Sabathia vs. Matt Harvey

Plus:

Am I surprised how the Mets pulled away in the N.L. East?

What has Yoenis Cespedes' impact been on the line-up, 

and does he deserve N.L. MVP consideration?

My assessment of the Matt Harvey situation, key players to watch this upcoming series, 

and my one major concern regarding the Mets potentially reaching the World Series.

Lastly, based on a scale of 1 to 10, 

the chances of these teams meeting again in the World Series...

Of course, I couldn't help but drag ownership into the conversation, 

this time for the right reasons.

Here's the (BlogTalkRadio) Link:

Yanks Go Yard: Subway Series Preview Show

Mets vs. Yankees


Thanks Ricky, had a blast!

N.Y. Giants: A Rushing Mentality Must Flow Through Your Veins

From the desk of:  DO IT FOR THE DUKE

Skip the game film, reopen the history books,

go directly to the chapter titled: 

Run With Power!

WEEK ONE

New York Giants  26

Dallas Cowboys    27

FINAL

NEW YORK GIANTS: Ben McAdoo, Tom Coughlin, and Eli Manning, were in perfect sync.  They couldn't have been more wrong, but make no mistake, they were all operating on the same page.

Entering Sunday night's opener, I did not think the Giants could rush for 100 yards against the Dallas Cowboys front seven.

They damn near pulled it off though:

• Rashad Jennings - 13 rushes for 52 yards.
• Shane Vereen - 3 rushes for 14 yards.
• Andre Williams - 6 rushes for 14 yards.
• Dwayne Harris - 1 rush for 11 yards.

Combined, they rushed 23 times for 91 yards, for an average 3.9 yards per carry.

These days, that's a solid effort against anybody much less the Cowboys - not ideal, but solid nonetheless.  

Or, maybe it's me.  Maybe I'm simply getting older and fixed in my ways.  Maybe I was overly spoiled (indoctrinated) by Bill Parcells and Smash Mouth football.

Maybe...

But, Bill Parcells always told his men to Run With Power!  

Sunday night, the Giants were seemingly doing just that.  Leading 23-20 with 5:08 left in the game, the Giants were zeroing in for the kill.  They marched 79 yards on 12 plays.

Offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo called on Rashad Jennings 7 times during the drive, and specifically targeted the Cowboys' middle 5 times.  In return Jennings produced 38-net yards.

• middle > 3 yds.
• middle > 27 yds.
• middle > 7 yds.
• middle > 2 yds.
• left < minus 4 yds.
• middle > 2 yds.
• left > 1 yd.

Rashad Jennings and the Giants arrived at 3rd down on the Cowboys 1-yard line with 1:43 still left on the clock, which brings us to that fateful 13th play of the drive.

Offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo inexplicably called for a pass in that situation.

At that very instant I'm sure everyone thought, WTF!  I mean, what learned football man functioning in his right mind would call for a pass in that situation?  Football-101 clearly dictates you pound it in from the one.

"This is why you lift all those weights!" - Bill Parcells

Rushing doesn't just happen.  It needs to be established.  It requires commitment, choreography, and flow.  Running the ball early also paves the way towards bigger gains later.

Smash Mouth Football was designed to wear opponents down, and grind them into a fine powder.

Running the ball is about control, controlling possession, controlling the clock, and ultimately controlling the game.  When you control that stuff, you control your opponent's ability to field their offense against you.

That Is Why You Run!

Run early, run late, and intensify the run when you have the lead.

Eli said he was guilty of bad thought management.  Okay, I agree.

But, as a veteran quarterback and 2-time Super Bowl MVP, Eli should have known exactly what his exit strategy was.  A potential breakdown should have already played out in his mind.  He needed to instinctively run the ball himself, take a sack, or just take a knee.  At the very least, he should have glared at the sideline and given Coach McAdoo the screw face for calling such a play.

But, he didn't.

Coach Coughlin said that was the wrong call, and that they should have run the ball in that situation.   Once again, I agree, but I think he was merely doctoring the room.

Hell, I say he was in on the fix.  Coughlin heard McAdoo make the call.  He's not listening to Bobby Darin on those headsets.  Tom Coughlin could have squashed the play right then and there.

But, he didn't.

It's not my intention to criticize Tom Coughlin.  After all, the man is a 2-time Super Bowl champion - just like Bill Parcells.  Same goes for Eli.  He and Coach Coughlin merely did things their way.

With regards to Sunday, though, Phil Simms would not have compromised that situation by stopping the clock with an incomplete pass.  Coach Parcells wouldn't have allowed it.  He detested players whom did not understand situational football.

And as for Tom Coughlin, he should have known better.  He remembers Smash Mouth.  He was part of Bill Parcells' staff.

And there's the rub.

Coughlin served as Giants wide receivers coach under Parcells from 1988 through the 1990 Super Bowl season.  He previously served in the same capacity for Philadelphia and Green Bay.  At the collegiate level, he was QB coach at Boston College, and served as QB coach/offensive coordinator at Syracuse.

In other words, Tom Coughlin is an offensive Wile E. Coyote.  He's a chucker.  Bill Parcells was defense first, and conservative offense second.  He wanted Phil Simms to manage his system, nothing more.

Tom Coughlin and Mark Brunell, however, were registered with air traffic control in Jacksonville.   Through the years, Coughlin and Eli have behaved the same way.  Eli, by the way, was the same way at Ole Miss.

Just saying...

Former offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride paid a stiff price so as to allow Wile E. Coughlin to keep his job.  We (I) gave Kevin (Kill Drive) a lot of crap over the years.  But make no mistake, that was Coughlin's guy.  Together, they routinely led the NFL in most yards attempted per pass play.

This is not an echo - Coughlin and Gilbride routinely led the NFL in most yards attempted per pass play.  That means Ben McAdoo's play selection entered Tom Coughlin's left ear speaker and exited his right ear speaker approved for Eli's immediate execution.

That play was over 25 years in the making!

Running the ball is just not in Coughlin's blood the way it flowed through Parcells.

Don't give me that crap that time has changed this into a passing man's game.  That's what they said about the AFL 50 years ago.  Yet, the era was dominated by Vince Lombardi's supreme Run to Daylight.

Football, particularly rushing, is a simple matter of being stronger, smarter, and better.

Those that want to run the ball, do.

Happy Anniversary SB XXV.

Staten Island Yankees Open New York-Penn League Championship Series in West Virginia

From the desk of:  THE RICHMOND COUNTY NINE

2015 

McNamara Division Champions

NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE

CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

GAME ONE

Staten Island Yankees

vs.

West Virginia Black Bears

FROM

A Ballpark Far Away From NYC

Staten Island Yankees: Richmond County Bombers hit the Appalachian Trail in search of a championship...

The 2015 New York-Penn League championship series opens Monday evening with the West Virginia Black Bears hosting the visiting Staten Island Yankees in Game One.

The Baby Bombers captured the McNamara Division title by a slim 1.5 game margin over the Aberdeen IronBirds, while West Virginia qualified for post season play via the Wild Card.

After ending the regular season with a sweep of the Brooklyn Cyclones, Staten Island then swept the Tri City Valley Cats in the opening round of playoffs.  The Yankees enter this evening's action riding a 6-game winning streak.

The Black Bears defeated the Pinckney Division champion Williamsport Crosscutters to advance into the final round.

Offensively speaking, the Yankees are a sum of their parts.  Not a single Baby Bomber ended the regular season within the league's top ten in batting average, OPS, home runs, or RBI.

Staten Island's three outfield regulars led the club in production.  Jeff Hendrix ranked 6th in the circuit in runs scored, left fielder Trey Amburgey was 11th in home runs, while Jhalan Jackson, whom has not played since Sept. 6th against Brooklyn, finished 12th in the circuit in RBI.


Team Rankings: Offense

• Staten Island - 9th in average, 6th in OPS, 4th in home runs and runs scored.
• W.V. Black Bears - 3rd in team batting, 4th in OPS, 3rd in runs scored, but oddly ranked dead last in home runs.

Starter Luis Cedeno was 4th in the league with a 2.73 ERA.  His 1.33 WHiP, however, registered 16th in the league.  Yoel Espinal finished 9th in strikeouts.  With a 6-4 record, Derek Callahan tied for the 3rd most victories.

Team Rankings: Pitching

• Staten Island - 5th best ERA, 6th best WHiP, 3rd most strikeouts.  They surrendered the 8th least runs, the 3rd least hits, and issued the 5th least walks.
• W.V. Black Bears - 7th in ERA, 2nd in WHiP, 4th in strikeouts.  They surrendered the 8th least runs, the 3rd least hits, and issued the 5th least walks.

The series will shift to Staten Island for Game Two, and if needed, Game Three.

N.Y. Giants: A Potentially Troublesome Season Kicks-Off in Dallas

From the desk of:  DO IT FOR THE DUKE

WEEK ONE

New York Giants

vs.

Dallas Cowboys

FROM

JERRY'S HOUSE

Texas

NEW YORK GIANTS FOOTBALL: Fan favorite, Steve Weatherford recently became a salary cap casualty.  The fact a punter arguably became the team's MVP over the last two seasons was a leading indicator of just how far Big Blue has fallen.  For those fans old enough to remember Dave Jennings, you know exactly what I mean.

Sorry folks, this being the 25th anniversary of Super Bowl XXV will ultimately prove to be the best part of the 2015 season.

Recent history says the Giants have been a sub par team since winning SB XLVI.  This season, I fear the Giants will only continue their downward trend.

After paying more attention this pre-season than I have in a very long while, I did not like what I saw.

In fact, tonight's opening game in Dallas may very well end disastrously.  I'm consumed with the potential of a blowout.  I'd rather it not turn out that way, but as an aside, the Giants have lost their last 4 season openers, and two of those came against the Cowboys.

Just saying...

For all the talk of the Giants offensive potential, I feel they will will struggle to score 20 points.  I'll be paying particular attention to how many three-and-outs they commit.  Moreover, I defy the Giants offensive line to spearhead long, time consuming drives.

Dallas, however, will do just that.  Their offensive line is equipped to control the clock, and possession.  They'll get off more plays from scrimmage and face little resistance putting up points against an already depleted Giants defense.

If the offense does not optimize their limited possessions, the Giants are as good as done.

ICYMI:

A Big Blue Crucible Built For Two

1st Down and a Long Season to Go:

For starters, Steve Weatherford is gone - a salary cap casualty.  I get that, because you can't spend small fortunes on punters in the cap era.  But, I'm no less sorry to see him go.  He was effectively the team's MVP these last 2 seasons - which is an alarming indictment against Jerry Reese!

Damn right I'm feeling glum...


Last year's bad defense stands poised to become this year's worse nightmare.

• The JPP situation is so ponderous, that I haven't a clue where to start.  What I do know, is the Giants enter the season without a legitimate pass rusher.

• Linebacker remains in its usual state of neglect - again, thank you Jerry Reese.  Jon Beason is hurt again, leaving Devon Kennard as the team's lone inspiring talent at the position.

• The secondary, meanwhile, reads like an intensive care unit.  The departure of Antrel Rolle additionally created a major void in leadership.  He was the traffic cop on the field.  Outside of Prince Amukamara, we now have a bunch of Keystone candidates.

Offensively, Eli Manning and Odell Beckham Jr. can't carry the Giants by themselves.

• During the pre-season, there was much talk regarding how Odell Beckham now wears a target on his back.  That situation will clearly be worth monitoring.  He won't get relief anytime soon though, as Victor Cruz is not yet ready for game action.  Therefore, this would be a fine time (as well as being about time..) for Rueben Randal to finally up his game.

• My opinion of tight end Larry Donnell is favorable, but still incomplete.  Over the past 2 seasons, the Giants haven't exactly utilized tight end to my satisfaction.  That stems from the position having to compensate, and assist a poor offensive line....

• Everything starts up front.  Rashad Jennings is a fine back, but what good is he if the offensive line can't create any daylight?  How well, then, will the Shane Vereen acquisition turn out?   What good is having Beckham if Eli Manning can't get him the ball, or worse, Eli gets repeatedly slammed to the deck?  Keep your eyes peeled on Justin Pugh, who is now the starting left guard.  Ultimately, the front five pose one Giant question mark.  As this offensive line goes, so goes Big Blue.

Whichever way you shake it, the Giants are about to embark on a long troublesome season, again.  I could be wrong about everything, but I doubt it.

And so goes my opening post....

Consider me punched in.  The DO IT FOR THE DUKE portion of this blog is now in session.

PIGSKIN 2015: Opening Sunday - Week One

PIGSKIN
* * 2015 * *

OPENING SUNDAY

Week One

If you're a regular of PIGSKIN, welcome back you bunch of animals!  

For those of you new to the TROLLEY, thanks for hopping on.  Here's how it's done:

• Each game is worth one BAGEL, and my Schmear of the Week is worth 3 Bagels.  A push is a push is a push....

You read that right.  We play for Bagels around here with a Schmear of goodness.  Last time I checked, my man cave wasn't buoyed 12 miles off shore, or registered in Costa Rica.

So, now that we're on the same play sheet let's be clear about a few things.

I only post Sunday games.  That means no Monday, or Thursday nights, with the exception of Giants and Jets games, Thanksgiving, and December Saturday games, etc.

Next, my picks are for entertainment purposes only.  Part of the reason for rolling out this TROLLEY was because I got sick of other people's opinions, particularly so called experts.  But I digress...

This is simply about you and I talking football, and having a good time about it.  That said, allow me to call you an idiot, now, just in case you lose your life savings following me, later.  In other words, your stupidity is not my fault.

Furthermore, the New York Mets have disrupted my whole routine.  Considering this year's pennant race, I just can't wrap my head around football yet.  

For the N.Y. Giants, that's a good thing!  Full disclosure folks - I am indeed a Giants fan, but I call it as I see it.

My record in previous years hasn't been too shabby.  Last season, I ended up 107-100-5, and went 8-8 with my Schmear of the Week.  After 17 weeks of baking, I earned a net +3 Bagels.

Here's a few more things you should know:

• I usually post PIGSKIN on Friday nights.  I'm late getting Week One up because I have a freakin' life!  I've been busy.

• I usually use Friday's line from the (N.Y.) Daily News..., just because.  I'm going by Saturday's N.Y. Post line this week because I had it right next to me.

• I can't decode the Cleveland Browns.  It's just a thing...  Whatever I say, you'd be wise to go the other way.

• This blog also no longer recognizes the Washington football club's official nickname because it's fun protesting Daniel Snyder.  Therefore, this blog refers to them as the D.C. Hogs.

• And..., I usually post a Football Sunday menu.

I think that covers it.  The rest gets figured out along the way.

The March Towards Super Bow Fifty Starts Now...

1st and Ten:

• Football lost a legend with the passing of Frank Gifford, and an NFL matriarch with the passing Ann Mara.

• Why isn't Ken "The Snake" Stabler already in the Hall of Fame?  The dolts in charge of that process better get this right after blowing his election while still alive.

No Gain:

• It's Back to the Future Redux, starring Rex Ryan.  This time, Future Boy pops up in Buffalo, only to find himself in the same situation as 2009-2010 with the Jets.  He'll have a fine defense, but without an NFL caliber quarterback, Ryan's offense will once again operate like a chicken without a head.  If we learned anything about Rex during his time with the Jets, it's that he pays little attention to the offense.  Much will depend, then, on how well his delegates pick up the slack.  That said, offensive coordinators continually paid the price for Rex Ryan's shortcomings while with the Jets...

• The NFL is going to miss having Jim Harbaugh on the sidelines.

3rd and Long:

• Daniel Snyder's continued defiance is impressive.  I'm even considering renaming Washington yet again to the D.C. Mules.  Then there's the ongoing RGIII dilemma...  The dysfunction in Washington is remarkable.

• Spy Gate, Deflate Gate - how many more gates get to swing in New England before one finally takes out the Patriots?

• Is this Peyton Manning's final sip at the Last Gasp Saloon?  On paper at least, Denver is among the early SB favorites.  Without a second Super Bowl, his legacy continues taking a pounding.

PUNT!

• Roger Goodell has more problems than a math book.  Has a precedence been set?  With Tom Brady's court victory over the NFL, what stops the next player from taking his grievance to court, or any player from circumventing the entire CBA for that matter, particularly in defiance of the league commissioner?

• The Bears should punt every chance they get.  It may be their only method of successfully matriculating the ball up field.  With any luck, they'll recover a few fumbles within field goal range.

• Oh boy!  Look how much closer the league is to putting a team back in Los Angeles!

Enough already...  Let's roll some Bagels.

WEEK ONE:

COWBOYS -6 (Giants)

As noted, I'm a Giants fan, but I have little confidence this will be a particularly good season for them.  Big Blue's misery will start post-haste in Dallas.  The Cowboys offensive line will ultimately control this game against an already depleted Giants defense.  This might even get ugly.

Loss; 27-26 Cowboys

JETS -3 1/2 (Browns)

I like Coach Bowles and the new direction the Jets are heading.  Geno Smith's broken jaw didn't necessarily hinder flight operations either.  In fact, they're arguably in better, more secure hands with Ryan Fitzpatrick at the controls.  The defense will be solid, and should hold off the Browns well enough to cover.

WIN; 31-10 Jets

Packers -6 1/2 (BEARS)

The Bears couldn't scare a pack of Boy Scouts right now, much less the Green Bay Packers.  Home field between these teams is an inconsequential matter during September.  Advantage Cheese Heads.

WIN; 31-23 Packers

Chiefs +1 1/2 (TEXANS)

Stopping JJ Watt is a lot to ask.  But if the offensive line buys Alex Smith sufficient time, the Chiefs can steal this game in Houston.

WIN; 27-20 Chiefs

BILLS +2 1/2 (Colts)

This is just one of those things...  It could be just one of very few losses for the Colts this season.  On the one hand, Andrew Luck is anxious to redeem last year's exit from the playoffs.  On the other hand, the Bills have spent the pre-season getting high on Rex Ryan's bravado.  A good defense, led by a fine defensive minded coach, makes me think a few sacks and a pair of INT's will swing the game Buffalo's way.

WIN; 27-14 Bills

Dolphins -3 1/2 (D.C. MULES)

What's not to like?  Washington is deteriorating from within.  Miami is emerging.  The Fish may not win a great majority of their games, but they'll nonetheless give their opponents fits this season.

WIN; 17-10 Dolphins

Panthers -3 (JAGUARS)

Why is this game only 3 points?  The fix is in!

WIN; 20-9 Panthers

Seahawks -4 (RAMS)

Because it's the Seahawks, and until someone proves otherwise the safe bet is with Seattle.

Loss; 34-31 Rams/ovetime

CARDINALS -2 1/2 (Saints)

Las Vegas doesn't seem terribly confident, but I do.  The Cardinals window of opportunity is still open, but closing fast.  The Saints window, however, is sealed shut.

WIN; 31-19 Cardinals

CHARGERS -3 (Lions)

This game screams stay away.  The obligatory 3-point respect paid to home teams always does.

WIN; 33-28 Chargers

Titans +3 (BUCS)

Feeling lucky, punk?

WIN; 42-14 Titans

Bengals -3 (RAIDERS)

I have no reason justifying my belief in the Bengals ability to enter the Black Hole and win, other than to say they usually perform at their worst during big games at home.  This should be a lay-up, or not.  Things can very easily go Oakland's way.  You've been warned.

WIN; 33-13 Bengals

BRONCOS -4 (Ravens)

Because our first inclination is to underestimate the Ravens, and because playing in Denver matters, and because Peyton Manning is usually great this time of year.  Doh!

WIN; 19-13 Broncos

*Schmear of the Week:

Packers -6 1/2

Guten Appetit:

Choice of bruschetta or guacamole dip, chorizo and grilled shrimp on sticks painted with a brown garlic sauce, Spanish rice, and skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.  So, what's on your menu?

Good luck, and have a Happy Opening Sunday of football everyone!!

POST GAME:

Oh baby!  What a week!  You should have listened.

Week One Record:  11-2

Schmear of the Week:  1-0

Bagels in the Basket:  +12

2001-2015: United We Stand

(2012)

N.Y. Mets: Podcast #116 - Mets vs. Nationals Showdown

Here's Monday night's podcast 

RisingApple.com

I hosted, and was joined by fellow Rising Apple writer Jack Ganchrow.

Our featured guest was Ricky Keeler from DistrictOnDeck.com, 

a Washington Nationals fan site.

We had a Mets vs. Nationals intensive conversation:

Matt Williams, Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, Bryce Harper,

and of course, the quest for the N.L. East flag.

We also tackled the newest 800-pound gorillas in the room:

Matt Harvey and Scott Boras

...then finally got around to players who've worn #16 in Mets history,

and revisited the 1916 National League Champion Brooklyn Dodgers.

Enjoy, or not.

Rising Apple Report Episode #116: 

Mets vs. Nationals with Rickey Keeler, 

Editor of District on Deck

#LGM

L.I. Ducks: On Not So Golden Pond

From the desk of:  THE WEBBED SPIKES NINE

The enemy of my enemy is my enemy, and my friend..?

Long Island Ducks: The road leading to a 2nd half Liberty Division crown goes through York and Lancaster.

They say timing is everything....  

The Flock did well by taking 2 of 3 games from the Bluefish earlier this week, considering all the mistreatment Bridgeport imposed upon the Ducks this season.

Bridgeport is now in the midst of a 5-game losing streak, giving them 8 losses in their last 10 games, and dropping them 4.5 games behind the division lead (...and 3 full games behind the Ducks).

On Friday, host Long Island dropped their series opener against Southern Maryland, but rebounded to win the next two.  Game Four against the Blue Crabs is scheduled for Labor Day.

With 14 games remaining in the regular season, the Ducks (30-26) trail first place Somerset by 1.5 games.  The Patriots, not incidentally, are in the midst of a 3-game winning streak.

Since the season series between the Ducks and Patriots is complete, they won't be facing each other down the stretch, meaning their respective opponents will greatly influence whom emerges as 2nd half Liberty Division champion.

Somerset will close out their 5-game series against Sugar Land on Monday.  Next on their schedule:

• YORK
• LANCASTER
• @ Bridgeport
• @ York

After claiming the 1st half Liberty Division title, the Patriots continue charging towards a division sweep.  They posted a record setting 50-20 (.714) first half, but have "cooled" to a .564 winning percentage in the 2nd half.  Overall, they're an impressive 81-44 on the season, and the only Atlantic League team to surpass 80 victories.

The Ducks remain a close second.  They own a 76-50 overall mark, making them and Somerset the only teams surpassing 70 victories this season.

The Long Island Ducks remaining schedule beginning Tuesday:

• @ Camden
• SUGAR LAND
• @ York
• @ Lancaster

You say you want a Revolution, well, you know...

The York Revolution will play the Patriots 7 times, and will face the Ducks 3 times, potentially putting York in position of providing Long Island with a small, yet much needed assist - assuming the Ducks take care of their own business.

That said.. there's a storm brewing.

Don't look now, but here come the Lancaster Barnstormers hell bent on ruining the day!

In case you haven't noticed, the Lancaster Barnstormers are suddenly red hot - good for them, but bad for the Liberty race.

The defending league champions stumbled mightily in the 1st half, posting a disappointing 28-42 record, while Southern Maryland captured the 1st half Freedom Division crown.

But all that has changed.  The Barnstormers regrouped to post a 36-20 2nd half record thus far. They have won 8 of their last 10 games, and presently lead the Freedom Division by 6 games over Sugar Land.

Did I mention they were the defending Atlantic League champions?

It now seems in the Ducks' and Patriots' best interests to proceed with caution.  They're both poised to face the Barnstormers at a seemingly very inopportune time.  But, whereas the Patriots get to host the Barnstormers for 3 games, the Ducks must end their season on the road with 4 games in Lancaster.

Timing is indeed everything...

Wild Kingdom:

In the Long Island Ducks alternate reality, they own a firm 12.5 game lead over the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, and will shortly clinch, at least, the Atlantic League Wild Card.

BK Nets: How Darryl Dawkins planted his flag in Bernard King's house

From the desk of:  

THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH  and  DUTCH PANTS CAN'T JUMP

DARRYL DAWKINS

1957 - 2015
*

New Jersey Nets

1982 - 1987

BROOKLYN NETS: Darryl Dawkins planted his flag on Flatbush Avenue long before the team arrived, back during the wildly popular Bernard King's County era.

The Nets enterprise obviously enjoyed its greatest success when they played on Long Island. Spanning three years between 1973-1976, the New York Nets averaged 56 wins per season and captured 2 ABA championships.

Julius Erving was then infamously sold to the Philadelphia 76ers, while the team itself moved to New Jersey after the 1976-1977 season.  After which, the transplanted Nets unavoidably posted four consecutive sub-par seasons.

Then led by notables such as Otis Birdsong and Buck Williams, and coached by Larry Brown, the 1981-1982 the Nets finally emerged from the second division to join the ranks of Eastern Conference contenders.  Their 44-38 record was the team's first winning campaign since fleeing Long Island, and also earned them their first ever NBA playoff appearance.

For the 1982-1983 season, Birdsong and Williams, Mike Gminski, Sleepy Floyd, Len Elmore, Albert King, and the troubled Michael Ray Richardson, welcomed Darryl Dawkins into the fold.

Dawkins, affectionately known as Chocolate Thunder, was a center by trade, and was acquired from the 76ers to clog up the paint.  He did just that, and in fact led the league in personal fouls for two straight seasons upon his arrival.

His first two seasons with the Nets were by far his healthiest.  He played 81 games each year, and provided the Nets with double-digit scoring and 6 rebounds per game.

Overall, and despite injuries, I remember Dawkins playing an integral role in helping put a New Jersey team on the map.  With him, the Nets continued a run of 5 straight playoff appearances - without him, I'm not so sure.

He along with Dominique Wilkins, Dr. J of course, along with a few others, were the original highlight films before the spread of cable TV and prominence of ESPN.

Darryl was famously known for naming his dunks, and long before Bo Jackson arrived snapping baseball bats across his knee, Chocolate Thunder became notorious for shattering NBA backboards and making them rain glass.  The George Michaels' Sports Machine never failed in featuring a big Double-D Dunk of the Week.

That was cool back then...

He played for New Jersey during my mid-teens, obviously very impressionable years during one's life.

I've always been the type that when my favorite teams are idle, or even between commercials, I watch the other locals as intently.  To me, that's the beauty and benefit of being a sports fan in New York - or the symptoms of being a sports junkie.  Your choice.

The Nets (Devils and Jets) never inspired that Rangers/Islanders or Mets/Yankees "sports hatred" situation for me.  Yours truly found the New Jersey Nets of the 1980's an entertaining watch for as long as they weren't beating the Knicks.

The Knicks were the second team I ever came to know and root for as a young child after the Mets.

As a charter member of the NBA, the Knicks have long reigned over all of Empire City.

Yet, on any given city playground or cleverly devised and improvised basketball court during the 1980's - even deep within local hero Bernard King's own home turf - many a Brooklyn kid could be heard invoking the name of Chocolate Thunder! in assault of their playground rim.

I did...  In the 1980's, you did too!

When kids (then or now) invoke a player's name during local pick-up games, you know that player is somebody.  As Reggie Jackson once declared, "Fans don't boo nobodys."

In those days, going Chocolate Thunder on someone was the only credible response to having someone gone Bernard King all up in your face first.  Trust me, no one was getting Rory Sparrow on each other, nor were they flexing their inner Darwin Cook.  Lets face it, trying to go Otis or Buck on someone would have been weak as well.  You know the deal.

All I know is here in Brooklyn, for both Knicks and whatever Nets fans alike, Darryl Dawkins was the only answer if someone got all Bernard King on you in the park.

For my humble experience, we played with a friend whom we permanently renamed Chuck over his obscene proclivity for launching bricks.  But every time he did go BerNARD! on me, I resorted to Chocolate Thunder every time.

Around here, he somehow became a playground legend in defiance of a King.

Both on and off the court, he was one of the most gregarious persons on the planet.  I didn't understand that about him prior to his arrival from Philadelphia.  But I grew to know it well.

Darryl Dawkins passed away in August, and will be missed.

Staten Island Yankees Dump on Coney Island Nine

From the desk of:  THE SURF AVENUE SLUGGERS

Battle of the Boroughs Finale

Saturday Final

Yankees      7

Cyclones     3

Season series is now tied 5-5

End of Season

Staten Island Yankees

vs.

Brooklyn Cyclones

FROM

Coney Island

Kings County

Staten Island Yankees Dump All Over Coney Island..., but have little margin for error.

The first place Staten Island Yankees entered Saturday's action holding a mere half-game lead over both Aberdeen and Hudson Valley.

While the Ironbirds were busy dismantling the Renegades up in Fishkill late into the night, the Richmond County Bombers rolled to a 7-3 victory over the Cyclones.

Thus, Staten Island remained one half-game ahead of Aberdeen, and are now 1.5 games ahead of the Renegades, with just 2 games remaining in the regular season.

The McNamara Division race, and Aberdeen in particular, are having a major impact on the Wild Card standings as well, as the State College Spikes and West Virginia Black Bears continue running slightly ahead of the pack, as both just notched their 40th victories of the season, respectively.

In other words, at 39-34 the Yankees may be staring a division flag or bust scenario in the face.  They have no margin for error.

Now MCU Park smells like hot garbage too.  Can we at least play spoiler in the last two games, please..?

The Brooklyn Cyclones....., well, so much for playing the role of spoiler.  Rather, the Yankees came to Brooklyn and dumped all over Coney Island.

Just for the record, the Cyclones are now 6.5 games out of first place, and will inevitably complete their first losing season in their 15-year history come Labor Day.

Moreover, Saturday's defeat merely continued resetting the club season record established back in 2002.  The tally is now up to 41 against 33 victories.  The old record of 38 losses stood for 13 years.

Can we at least go out with a bang, then?  Can we help prevent Staten Island from making the playoffs..., please?



Mike

N.Y. Mets: Like Stink on a Fish

Here's Friday's post-game piece for 

RisingApple.com

Once upon a time, 

the Mets held a 7-game lead with 17 games left to play...

Like Stink on a Fish, the Miami Marlins Stand Poised to Play Spoiler, Again

Mike

N.Y. Mets: Big Boy Baseball Starts Now

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

NEW YORK METS: Answering a beleaguered owner's call...

A little over a decade ago, Fred Wilpon did himself no favors when he infamously sulked,

"I just want to play meaningful games in September."

That remained a sarcastic, oft used fan and media catch phrase ever since - trending long before #hashtags were ever invented.

He still catches a lot of flack over it.

Nevertheless, after posting a 20-8 record this past August, the Mets will be doing just that.

In fact, the Mets will be playing very meaningful games in September for only the fourth time since Fred Wilpon bought out his former partner back in 2002.

One need refer back to the years spanning 2006-2008 for the last time though.  Those Mets cost Mr. Wilpon a small fortune to maintain.  Then of course, his piggy bank broke.

Both club and fans endured many lean years together since - six straight losing seasons to be exact.

After much demolition and rebuilding, Sandy Alderson originally set 2014 as his target for playoff contention.  With or without Matt Harvey (lost to Tommy John surgery), Alderson's due date was agreeably premature.

Last season nonetheless proved invaluable with regards to several players gaining major league experience.  Look no further than Jacob deGrom, Jeurys Familia, Juan Lagares, Lucas Duda, Wilmer Flores, Travis d'Arnaud, and the like.

Confounding injuries have been numerous to say the least, forcing the 2015 Mets to rely on a transient 25-man roster patched together with an exhaustive list of revolving prospects - some obviously more touted than others.

As if on schedule, the collective young talent played well enough to keep the team in contention throughout July, which effectively forced upper management into making roster enhancements, or risk a severe fan backlash - particularly at the gate.

Seizing the moment, Sandy Alderson negotiated several well executed trade deadline acquisitions.

Today, the New York Mets now own the high ground.

The Mets start the day with a 6 game lead over the Washington Nationals.

They have 29 games remaining on their schedule, with six against the Nats, including the season's finale at Citi Field.

There is still one more Subway Series to play, and a four game set in Cincinnati.

Otherwise, the balance of their games will be against the N.L. East.  Competition wise, that's good news for the Mets.

All is seemingly conspiring to place the Mets in the driver's seat.  That said, it's time to hit the road again.  The Mets open a 10-game road trip tonight in Miami.

• Sept. 4-6 @ Miami
• Sept. 7-9 @ Washinton
• Sept. 10-13 @ Atlanta

Their overall 29-35 road record, while vastly improved, is an inconsequential matter.  They posted a dismal 15-28 record in the season's first half.  But since returning from the all-star break, they've gone 14-7, and posted an impressive 8-1 mark during their last trip.  The objective is to stay at, or above .500 from this moment forward.

Of course, the looming series in Washington against the Nationals is priority one.  Till then the Mets want to take 2 of 3 from the Fish, while the Nationals hopefully comply with at least 2 losses against the Braves.

Much can happen between now and season's end, much less by this coming Monday.  But, dare I say this division is now the Mets to lose.

Remember, it took Frank Cashen seven years before the Mets played in the post-season.

The Mets still have a ways to go, but if in fact they do qualify for the playoffs, Sandy Alderson will have achieved it in five years, and on a shoestring budget to boot.

Let's hit the road and get this done.

#LGM

Brooklyn Cyclones clinch first losing season in 15-year history

From the desk of:  THE SURF AVENUE SLUGGERS

32-39*

Set club record for most losses in a season; 

ensures first sub .500 season in club history.

BROOKLYN CYCLONES: The Young Bums have 5 games left for making this the most futile season at Coney, ever.

I was gonna go all Bluto, and Animal House on this, but....

A little context is probably in order.

I say with great certainty, every season attending games at MCU Park has been time well spent.

This season was no exception.  The beach, the boardwalk, the breeze, Nathan's, Ruby's, and being spoiled with competitive baseball have all made this a modern day golden era for our little seaside hamlet of Kings County.

Yes, spoiled....

During their 14 previous seasons, the Brooklyn Cyclones posted an overall 621-430 (.591) record, for an annual 44-31 seasonal average.

They set a (still standing) franchise record with 52 victories during their inaugural 2001 championship season.  The very next year, however, they finished at .500 with a 38-38 record, and thus established their franchise mark for losses.

The closest Brooklyn ever came to resetting either mark came in 2010 when they posted 51 victories, and in 2013 when they barely managed a 38-37 record.  Each time they crept within a game of tying the franchise mark.

This season, you might say they nailed it...

The Tri City Valley Cats recently completed a series sweep over the Cyclones, whilst Tuesday's game in particular resulted in Brooklyn's franchise tying 38th defeat of the season.

With a 31-38 record, the Cyclones entered Wednesday's (abbreviated) twin bill against the Connecticut Tigers needing victories in their final 7 games of the season.  Anything less would clinch Coney Island's first losing season in their 15-year history.

The Cyclones emerged victorious in Game One:

Let's just get that out of the way, because in truth, the contest was more reflective of their entire season than anything else.

• Game One starter Edioglis Villasmil registered 6 strong innings, allowed one earned run on 6 hits and one walk, while fanning a pair.  Reliever P.J. Colon pitched a scoreless 7th inning, likewise striking out two.

At the plate however, Brooklyn offered no deviation from their year long average, going a combined 7/27 for a .220 team mark, with just 2 walks.  Connecticut helped the Cyclones along with 3 errors, contributing to 5 unearned runs and an eventual 7-1 Brooklyn win.

Game One was also game #70 of Brooklyn's season, during which the Cyclones have hit exactly .220 as a team, ranking them last in the NYPL.

Hitting home runs hasn't necessarily been a problem for them.  They're 7th in the circuit - middle of the pack.  But that's as good as it gets.  The Cyclones remain last in OBP, slugging, hits, total bases, and runs scored, and lead the circuit in strikeouts.

On the mound, the Cyclones have been top tier all season.  Brooklyn pitchers have surrendered the least hits, and the second least home runs.  They've struck out the second most, boast the circuit's second best WHiP and third best ERA, and registered the fourth most shutouts.

Wednesday's Game Two:

Why waste time, they lost.  More of the same....

Starter Jose Celas and reliever Nicco Blank combined on 6.2 innings, allowed 2 runs (1-earned) on 5 hits and 4 walks, with 5 strikeouts.  Connecticut got last licks, converting a walk and 2 hits into the winning run off Blank.

It wasn't a bad pitching line by most standards, however, Brooklyn's offense continued mustering too little, and now it's too late.

Jeff Diehl opened the scoring with a lead-off home run in the 5th.  Otherwise, the Cyclones manged just 3 other scattered hits, and nothing more.

So, there it is:

• LOSS #39 of the season - a new franchise mark.  What's more, the Brooklyn Cyclones have officially clinched their first losing season in 15 years of existence.  

The only question remaining is by what margin will they reset the mark by with 5 games left to play?

The Cyclones also end the regular season against the Staten Island Yankees, and could very well wind up playing major spoilers in Staten Island's pursuit of the division flag.


If they were trying to mimic the 2012 Cyclones, they missed by a wide margin, as even that pitching strong, yet offensively challenged edition still posted a 45-31 record, and qualified for the club's last post-season appearance.