Here's my latest for
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
N.Y. Jets: Unrepentant Rex Ryan Returns to the Green Apple Swinging
From the desk of: WALT MICHAELS' REVENGE
Review Season Results
New York Jets: Rex Ryan Pulls No Punches in Return to Big Green Apple.
First it was a punch to Geno Smith's jaw. Now Geno gets a slap to the face.
Like a bull through a fine china shop, D-Generation Rex is back, and he's unrepentant as ever!
The NFL's most notorious foot connoisseur named Ik Enemkpali a captain for this Sunday's Jets/Bills showdown at the House of Snoopy - the same Ik whom broke Geno Smith's jaw.
Only Rex...
This will be Buddy Ryan's offspring's first game back to the House of Snoopy since getting unceremoniously getting canned as Jets coach after posting a 4-12 record last season. On that note, I would argue former Jets GM John Idzik did Rex no favors over his final two seasons as coach.
In the process, the players lost a very popular and powerful motivator, and the only coach to ever guide the organization to two straight AFC championship games.
Rex Ryan is no doubt a defensive whiz. That said, he makes a better pack leader than head coach.
He seems to thrive in a locker room stylized after Delta House. And I'm one who believes you can't always give players what they want.
Personality wise, Todd Bowles couldn't be any more different. He is no defensive slouch himself, and perhaps is a more complete coach as well. The atmosphere around the Hangar has certainly been more workmanlike and composed since his arrival.
While this particular game is not as dire as I'm about to make it sound (yes it is) this is nevertheless one of those games where the Bills seemingly have everything to gain, while the Jets have everything to lose. The Jets are 5-3 this season, while the Bills enter Thursday's game with a 4-4 record. Both teams have gone 2-2 over their last four, while the Patriots remain undefeated.
In other words, unless something earth shattering radically shuffles the AFC East standings, both the Jets and Bills should start focusing on the Wild Cards, which in turn makes this game of paramount importance.
A victory would put the Jets in the driver's seat.
In the mean time, both teams would still need to outplay the Steelers and Raiders, and whomever else sneaks into the AFC playoff picture.
PIGSKIN
Thursday Night Football Edition
WEEK TEN
Review Season Results
Week Nine Record: 4-7
Overall Record: 60-46-3
Schmear of the Week: 5-4
Bagels in the Basket: +14
THURSDAY NIGHT
Buffalo Bills
vs.
New York Jets
FROM
House of Snoopy
MY PICK
JETS -3 (Bills)
I'm siding with discipline over dysfunction.
I think the game will devolve into a defensive struggle.
It's worth noting Nick Folk has been lost for the season.
Otherwise, there's been much about this game that smells push.
I'm siding with discipline over dysfunction.
I think the game will devolve into a defensive struggle.
It's worth noting Nick Folk has been lost for the season.
Otherwise, there's been much about this game that smells push.
New York Jets: Rex Ryan Pulls No Punches in Return to Big Green Apple.
First it was a punch to Geno Smith's jaw. Now Geno gets a slap to the face.
Like a bull through a fine china shop, D-Generation Rex is back, and he's unrepentant as ever!
The NFL's most notorious foot connoisseur named Ik Enemkpali a captain for this Sunday's Jets/Bills showdown at the House of Snoopy - the same Ik whom broke Geno Smith's jaw.
Only Rex...
This will be Buddy Ryan's offspring's first game back to the House of Snoopy since getting unceremoniously getting canned as Jets coach after posting a 4-12 record last season. On that note, I would argue former Jets GM John Idzik did Rex no favors over his final two seasons as coach.
In the process, the players lost a very popular and powerful motivator, and the only coach to ever guide the organization to two straight AFC championship games.
Rex Ryan is no doubt a defensive whiz. That said, he makes a better pack leader than head coach.
He seems to thrive in a locker room stylized after Delta House. And I'm one who believes you can't always give players what they want.
Personality wise, Todd Bowles couldn't be any more different. He is no defensive slouch himself, and perhaps is a more complete coach as well. The atmosphere around the Hangar has certainly been more workmanlike and composed since his arrival.
While this particular game is not as dire as I'm about to make it sound (yes it is) this is nevertheless one of those games where the Bills seemingly have everything to gain, while the Jets have everything to lose. The Jets are 5-3 this season, while the Bills enter Thursday's game with a 4-4 record. Both teams have gone 2-2 over their last four, while the Patriots remain undefeated.
In other words, unless something earth shattering radically shuffles the AFC East standings, both the Jets and Bills should start focusing on the Wild Cards, which in turn makes this game of paramount importance.
A victory would put the Jets in the driver's seat.
In the mean time, both teams would still need to outplay the Steelers and Raiders, and whomever else sneaks into the AFC playoff picture.
Monday, November 09, 2015
Brooklyn Nets: They Came; They Saw; They Left Disinterested as Ever
From the desk of: THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH
BROOKLYN NETS: Veni, Vidi, Fugheddaboudit...
They came;
They saw;
They paid respects to Kobe Bryant with cheers of MVP! one last time, and got to see Byron Scott again, whom once led the (New Jersey) Nets to back-to-back Eastern Conference titles;
Then they filed out of the building just as disinterested in their own local product as when they entered.
Brooklyn fans, that is...
To say fans exited Barclays Center discouraged would be to imply they cared in the first place. Most of them were there to see Kobe. But actual Nets fans gave their team a silent, chilly glance on their way out the door - as if to say it's time for you to hit the road, Jack (every pun intended), and we'll deal with you when you get back.
The Nets did just that, opening a four game trip with a loss in Milwaukee to Jason Kidd's young Bucks. They're presently off till Wednesday, when they'll visit Houston.
I can't speak for others, plus, I might be overstating the issue. But I doubt it. Very early in this relocation process, I warned just how apathetic this Borough can be when it comes to certain things - their moving into the neighborhood among them.
With every aspect of this organization now seemingly conspiring against him, I say with great confidence as a life-long resident of Kings County, Nets CEO Bret Yormark should be worried.
After a strong initial push into Knicks territory (Bernard King's turf), the Nets invasion efforts are losing ground on all fronts. In truth, the product is bad, getting worse, and has no hope of improving (through the draft for several more years to come), and as a result, the whole campaign is teetering on ruin.
Like any sports franchise or company, most major issues usually start at the top.
Outside of spending money well wasted, ownership has done little else towards convincing the fan base he/they are in this for the long haul. The team generally lacked a greater presence, and perhaps more involvement on Mikhail Prokhorov's part. He has in fact previously entertained thoughts of selling, even if only fleetingly, despite public, yet coded reassurances to the contrary.
It's difficult arguing, however, how he left the door strategically ajar for just such a move. We saw his political aspirations put this franchise on hold once before. Who's to say his next eclectic endeavor won't place the same neglectful distance between him and the team again?
Enter Billy King.
The man has made a complete and utter mess of Brooklyn's first professional sports franchise since the old Dodgers left town.
The man took Mikhail Prokhorov's vision, and money, and effectively recreated the Washington Generals (while simultaneously helping build Boston's next potential title).
The Nets have now lost seven straight to open the 2015-2016 regular season; Brooklyn's fourth season, and sure to be their worst.
There's something to be said for trending...
So far, opponents are outscoring the Nets by an average 103-90 margin, and I fear we have not yet begun to witness the full extent of futility which awaits us.
The Big Three is officially no more. Deron Williams' time here expired with little to show. Meanwhile, we're just seven games into this and Brook Lopez already had his first pedal setback (this, on the heels of new three-year contract). That leaves Joe Johnson as the lone member that provided a representative contribution. But, that's more an indictment than supportive.
But here's the main reason why Billy King no longer deserves serving as general manager of the Nets.
The Flatbush Avenue cagers are in the bottom tier in NBA attendance this season. Of course, we're dealing with a small sample size this early on, but the Nets should nevertheless recognize a foreboding trend.
If anything, Kobe's final appearance in Brooklyn helped inflate Brooklyn's numbers to some extent.
Kobe is not coming back though. So, clearly then, we have a problem.
Ownership better rethink this thing before too many people stop caring.
Taxi!
BROOKLYN NETS: Veni, Vidi, Fugheddaboudit...
They came;
They saw;
They paid respects to Kobe Bryant with cheers of MVP! one last time, and got to see Byron Scott again, whom once led the (New Jersey) Nets to back-to-back Eastern Conference titles;
Then they filed out of the building just as disinterested in their own local product as when they entered.
Brooklyn fans, that is...
To say fans exited Barclays Center discouraged would be to imply they cared in the first place. Most of them were there to see Kobe. But actual Nets fans gave their team a silent, chilly glance on their way out the door - as if to say it's time for you to hit the road, Jack (every pun intended), and we'll deal with you when you get back.
The Nets did just that, opening a four game trip with a loss in Milwaukee to Jason Kidd's young Bucks. They're presently off till Wednesday, when they'll visit Houston.
I can't speak for others, plus, I might be overstating the issue. But I doubt it. Very early in this relocation process, I warned just how apathetic this Borough can be when it comes to certain things - their moving into the neighborhood among them.
With every aspect of this organization now seemingly conspiring against him, I say with great confidence as a life-long resident of Kings County, Nets CEO Bret Yormark should be worried.
After a strong initial push into Knicks territory (Bernard King's turf), the Nets invasion efforts are losing ground on all fronts. In truth, the product is bad, getting worse, and has no hope of improving (through the draft for several more years to come), and as a result, the whole campaign is teetering on ruin.
Like any sports franchise or company, most major issues usually start at the top.
Outside of spending money well wasted, ownership has done little else towards convincing the fan base he/they are in this for the long haul. The team generally lacked a greater presence, and perhaps more involvement on Mikhail Prokhorov's part. He has in fact previously entertained thoughts of selling, even if only fleetingly, despite public, yet coded reassurances to the contrary.
It's difficult arguing, however, how he left the door strategically ajar for just such a move. We saw his political aspirations put this franchise on hold once before. Who's to say his next eclectic endeavor won't place the same neglectful distance between him and the team again?
Enter Billy King.
The man has made a complete and utter mess of Brooklyn's first professional sports franchise since the old Dodgers left town.
The man took Mikhail Prokhorov's vision, and money, and effectively recreated the Washington Generals (while simultaneously helping build Boston's next potential title).
The Nets have now lost seven straight to open the 2015-2016 regular season; Brooklyn's fourth season, and sure to be their worst.
There's something to be said for trending...
- 1st year in BK; 49-33
- 2nd year in BK; 44-38
- 3rd year in BK; 38-44
- 4th year in BK; 0-7 to date.
So far, opponents are outscoring the Nets by an average 103-90 margin, and I fear we have not yet begun to witness the full extent of futility which awaits us.
The Big Three is officially no more. Deron Williams' time here expired with little to show. Meanwhile, we're just seven games into this and Brook Lopez already had his first pedal setback (this, on the heels of new three-year contract). That leaves Joe Johnson as the lone member that provided a representative contribution. But, that's more an indictment than supportive.
But here's the main reason why Billy King no longer deserves serving as general manager of the Nets.
The Flatbush Avenue cagers are in the bottom tier in NBA attendance this season. Of course, we're dealing with a small sample size this early on, but the Nets should nevertheless recognize a foreboding trend.
- 1st season in Brooklyn - 16th in attendance; 94% capacity.
- 2nd season (2013-2014) - 17th in attendance; 95% capacity.
- 3rd season (2014-2015) - 20th in attendance; 94% capacity.
- 4th season (2015-2016) - 25th in attendance; 88% capacity to date.
If anything, Kobe's final appearance in Brooklyn helped inflate Brooklyn's numbers to some extent.
Kobe is not coming back though. So, clearly then, we have a problem.
Ownership better rethink this thing before too many people stop caring.
Sunday, November 08, 2015
N.Y. Giants: Reese's Pieces and Defensive Malfeasance
From the desk of: DO IT FOR THE DUKE
What did we learn last Sunday? That if left unattended, the Saints can score 52 points.
With every passing week since his dismissal, Perry Fewell must snicker with satisfaction in the bowels of FedEx Stadium as the Giants defense sinks deeper into the abyss.
That by no means absolves Fewell from implementing an utterly ponderous system which fostered mass confusion, but he nonetheless squeezed out the very last bit of goodness Ernie Accorsi's old defense had to offer (or was the beneficiary thereof).
The unfortunate irony for Giants fans is that we got Coach Spagnuolo's system back - which I've always been a proponent of - but now lack personnel with which to execute a simple game of checkers.
The enduring poor state of this defense is 100% a personnel issue, which in turn, makes this Jerry Reese's problem.
How bad is this defense? Let us count the ways:
That last stat, if you remember, is very indicative of Coach Spagnuolo's style. Everything else about the Giants first half defensive performance, though, is forgettable.
Look around - there's nothing left of Ernie Accorsi's defensive leftovers. They're all retired, or should be. Ernie and The Duke seeded the previous run for the new regime, with Tom Coughlin and Eli Manning being their only remaining legacies.
This era of Giants Football belongs to Jerry Reese and John Mara. That said, the Giants owner must sit in his office at Snoopy Central thinking how he watched the Giants win four Super Bowls with either Hall of Fame caliber linebackers, or with likewise elite pass rushers, and wondering why he presently has neither.
In truth, the Giants issues go far beyond JPP's situation. Simply put, Jerry Reese has failed to sustain the talent level of the Giants, particularly on defense. And after watching Drew Brees and Saints tight end Ben Watson go buck wild, perhaps no one on the Giants realizes that more than John Mara.
In fact, the defense has been in a state of devolution since 2011, with JPP serving as the prime example. That's not a mutation crack - when JPP was a rookie, he was surrounded by three other elite pass rushers, and had two quality linebackers behind him, with Webster and Ross on the corners. The choreography between pass coverage and the pass rush back then was championship caliber.
They aren't even Snow Day caliber at the moment.
Did injuries help ruin the Giants best laid plans? Yep, that's what they do - in more ways than one.
The GM gave large sums of money to a linebacker whom repeatedly demonstrated an inability to stay healthy. When feeling well and contributing, Jon Beason is an actual difference maker. But, at this juncture, he couldn't make a difference for my local bar's flag football team. He's given fans less than zero since his arrival. They say he's great in the locker room. So, keep him there! Jon Beason's body obviously does not respond well to prolonged NFL level physicality anymore.
First Half Report Card
D-
DEFENSELESS
NEW YORK GIANTS: The Defense Rests, Every Sunday!
What did we learn last Sunday? That if left unattended, the Saints can score 52 points.
With every passing week since his dismissal, Perry Fewell must snicker with satisfaction in the bowels of FedEx Stadium as the Giants defense sinks deeper into the abyss.
That by no means absolves Fewell from implementing an utterly ponderous system which fostered mass confusion, but he nonetheless squeezed out the very last bit of goodness Ernie Accorsi's old defense had to offer (or was the beneficiary thereof).
The unfortunate irony for Giants fans is that we got Coach Spagnuolo's system back - which I've always been a proponent of - but now lack personnel with which to execute a simple game of checkers.
The enduring poor state of this defense is 100% a personnel issue, which in turn, makes this Jerry Reese's problem.
How bad is this defense? Let us count the ways:
- The second most total yards allowed.
- The most total yards allowed per game.
- The 6th most total points allowed.
- The 9th most points allowed per game
- The most total passing yards allowed.
- The most passing yards allowed per game.
- The 9th most total rushing yards allowed.
- The 14th most rushing yards allowed per game.
- Last in QB sacks.
- First in INTs.
- Forced 6th most fumbles.
- Recovered 16th most fumbles.
- First in Give/Take ratio.
That last stat, if you remember, is very indicative of Coach Spagnuolo's style. Everything else about the Giants first half defensive performance, though, is forgettable.
Look around - there's nothing left of Ernie Accorsi's defensive leftovers. They're all retired, or should be. Ernie and The Duke seeded the previous run for the new regime, with Tom Coughlin and Eli Manning being their only remaining legacies.
This era of Giants Football belongs to Jerry Reese and John Mara. That said, the Giants owner must sit in his office at Snoopy Central thinking how he watched the Giants win four Super Bowls with either Hall of Fame caliber linebackers, or with likewise elite pass rushers, and wondering why he presently has neither.
In truth, the Giants issues go far beyond JPP's situation. Simply put, Jerry Reese has failed to sustain the talent level of the Giants, particularly on defense. And after watching Drew Brees and Saints tight end Ben Watson go buck wild, perhaps no one on the Giants realizes that more than John Mara.
In fact, the defense has been in a state of devolution since 2011, with JPP serving as the prime example. That's not a mutation crack - when JPP was a rookie, he was surrounded by three other elite pass rushers, and had two quality linebackers behind him, with Webster and Ross on the corners. The choreography between pass coverage and the pass rush back then was championship caliber.
They aren't even Snow Day caliber at the moment.
Did injuries help ruin the Giants best laid plans? Yep, that's what they do - in more ways than one.
The GM gave large sums of money to a linebacker whom repeatedly demonstrated an inability to stay healthy. When feeling well and contributing, Jon Beason is an actual difference maker. But, at this juncture, he couldn't make a difference for my local bar's flag football team. He's given fans less than zero since his arrival. They say he's great in the locker room. So, keep him there! Jon Beason's body obviously does not respond well to prolonged NFL level physicality anymore.
- Is JB tough? I'm sure.
- Is JB fragile? Without question.
- Is that ideal for linebacker? Obviously not.
Cut him!
Then there's poor rookie Landon Collins. Drew Brees stuck it to him good last Sunday, didn't he? He's going to have a hard time shedding last week's stink (that was permeable stuff). That said, Prince Amukamara can't get back on the field soon enough. In the mean time, Dominique Rogers Cromartie is so alone in the secondary he might as well be on Revis Island.
Jerry Reese is inside his 8th season as general manager. Over the last four years, his drafting is proving largely inconsequential, while his reliance of free agency has steadily increased. That in turn has inspired some curious salary cap maneuvering.
It's Week Nine and the Giants are faced with a must win situation.
At some point, objective analysis must compartmentalize two Lombardi Trophies away from Reese's trending body of work. Jerry Reese has been with the Giants since 1994, therefore he will be treated with the utmost dignity and respect by ownership.
But John Mara is not going to appreciate an 8-8 NFC East title, or worse.
It's Week Nine and the Giants are faced with a must win situation.
At some point, objective analysis must compartmentalize two Lombardi Trophies away from Reese's trending body of work. Jerry Reese has been with the Giants since 1994, therefore he will be treated with the utmost dignity and respect by ownership.
But John Mara is not going to appreciate an 8-8 NFC East title, or worse.
Friday, November 06, 2015
PIGSKIN 2015: Week Nine
PIGSKIN
FOOTBALL SUNDAY
Week Nine
Results
Week Five
Week Six
Week Seven
Week Eight
N.Y. Jets - Coach Bowles Boils Over After Cross Country PlightWeek Six
Week Seven
Week Eight
Scoreboard:
Week Eight Record: 7-4-1
Overall Record: 57-39-3
Schmear of the Week: 5-3
Bagels in the Basket: +20
Pre-Game:
Pre-Game:
N.Y. Giants - Big Easy Hangover
N.Y. Giants - Reese's Pieces and Defensive Malfeasance
1st and Ten:
- With Thursday's win, the Bengals are now 8-0; the other undefeated teams are the Patriots, Broncos, and the NFC's Panthers.
- The Ford Family is cleaning house! General manager Martin Mayhew and President Tom Lewand are now former Detroit Lions executives. Michigan is rejoicing. Finally, someone acted with conviction.
2nd and Long:
- The Tennessee Titans made Ken Whisenhunt the second NFL coach fired this season.
- After two straight losses, the Jets remain in second place and have Rex Ryan's Bills to thank.
- Falcons lead all second place teams with a 6-2 record.
- Early Wild Card Showdown I - Steelers versus Raiders!
- Early Wild Card Showdown II - Vikings host the Rams. The Cardinals will be keeping a close eye on this game.
No Gain:
- Why don't the Browns and Titans just give their respective rookie QB's the ball and be done with it. I mean, really, they're a combined 3-13 this season. Who are they trying to outsmart? Just do it.
- NYG Jason Pierre Paul is set to make his first appearance since blowing up his hand. Good luck with that. No one really thinks he's going to help the NFL's worst pass rush, do they?
PUNT!
- I wonder how Jerry Jones feels about his "defensive leader" now that police photo's have been released, revealing the disturbing extent of bruising Greg Hardy inflicted upon his former girlfriend back in May 2014. Jerry Jones took the controversial and quite shameless step of signing him, and now must own the moment. Yes, Hardy is free of legal charges, and the matter was expunged from his record. And yes, he's already served his 4-week suspension (that was ponderously reduced from 10 games). But that does not preclude Jerry Jones from applying his own brand of belated justice by simply benching Hardy this week. Screw the player's union. Let them grieve it. In the mean time, those images are too fresh, and too disturbing to just ignore or sweep under the rug. Women spend a awful lot of money in Jerry's House as well as men. Do the right thing Jerry. Take a moral stand. Respect your female fan base. Bench him. As a Giants fan, I demand it! But we all know that's not happening. If he really wanted the Cowboys to be known as America's Team, though, he would.
WEEK NINE: Falling leaves decorate the landscape; days are shortening; the second half of the season starts..., Now!
FRIDAY LINE ~ NYDN
JETS -7 (Jaguars)
Fitzpatrick is playing with a messed up thumb, and Chris Ivory is still questionably hamstrung. But after spending a week in the Hangar getting lubed and retrofitted by Todd Bowles, the Jets should be plenty inspired. Besides, Jacksonville's bouncing back and forth between London this season can't be good. Fatigue might creep up on them.
Loss; 28-23 Jets
Loss; 28-23 Jets
Giants -2 1/2 (BUCS)
Why shouldn't Jameis Winston have a good day? Every other QB that faced the Giants defense has. I'm sticking with Big Blue because.., because..., the Eagles vs. Cowboys perhaps lends an extra added measure of desperation to the afternoon? I don't know. JPP will make his 2015 debut *sigh*.
WIN; 32-18 Giants
WIN; 32-18 Giants
STEELERS -4 1/2 (Raiders)
Oakland is the real trendy pick. That's why it's time an old fool went old school on these young upstart Raiders. Big Ben managed just fine prior to Le'Veon Bell's arrival - he'll manage again after losing his feature back to a season ending knee injury. Last week was a warm up for Ben. He's ready to rumble and stumble again in front of the home crowd.
Loss; 38-35 Steelers
Loss; 38-35 Steelers
Rams +2 (VIKINGS)
This is definitely a show-me game for both teams. I'm taking the points and running to daylight. The Rams have faced some good competition so far, the Vikes not so much.
Loss; 21-18 Vikings o.t.
Loss; 21-18 Vikings o.t.
BILLS -3 (Dolphins)
Beware! Dolphins are mammals too. Secondly, Vegas called and said they lost confidence in Rex. The stench at Orchard Park is going to be insufferable, with wafts of bison patties and Fish heads thickening the air.
WIN; 33-17 Bills
WIN; 33-17 Bills
SAINTS -8 (Titans)
The only ones not scoring against the Saints are Mormons. That said, the Titans will still have trouble putting up points. Besides, Drew Brees still has something to play for. Tennessee, not so much.
Loss; 34-28 Titans
Loss; 34-28 Titans
PATRIOTS -14 (D.C. Hogs)
Don't make me laugh... Unless the Hogs mount a pass rush, only Tom Brady will stop Tom Brady. D.C. is among the league's least in sacks. To date, the Patriots have scored 101 more points than the Hogs. What's your brilliant insight?
WIN; 27-10 Patriots
WIN; 27-10 Patriots
Packers -2 1/2 (PANTHERS)
They defied me once, leaving me tempting fate till I get a reaction. I'm rolling the dice in a second attempt at predicting Carolina's first loss of the season. The splits say the Panthers should win, but Vegas couldn't see their way to laying the obligatory home town 3-point spread. That's always a red flag.
Loss; 37-29 Panthers
Loss; 37-29 Panthers
Falcons -7 (49ERS)
Overrated? I'm sure the Falcons have caught wind of the latest water cooler chirp. Will they use that as motivation? Will they turn this into a statement game? As if, they're playing the 49ers. Might as well send that message by carrier pigeon. Doesn't mean they still won't blow out the Niners.
Loss; 17-16 49ers
Loss; 17-16 49ers
Broncos -5 (COLTS)
That was an impressive, if not reaffirming victory over the Packers last week - very impressive indeed. Without a healthy Andrew Luck, the Colts are nothing more than a cute little pony.
Loss; 27-24 Colts
Loss; 27-24 Colts
Eagles -2 1/2 (COWBOYS)
Desperate times call for desperate measures (for us Giants fans that is). I'm actually hoping for a Dallas win. But karma is a bitch, and so I hope the Eagles leave droppings all over Jerry's House.
WIN; 33-27 Eagles
WIN; 33-27 Eagles
Schmear of the Week:
Broncos -5
LOSS
LOSS
Guten Appetit:
If it's nice, like it's been all week, I'll BBQ. If it's not, I'll still BBQ. I'm emptying the fridge/freezer. You name it, I'm grilling it. I call it the pre-Thanksgiving clean out to make room for other stuff BBQ bonanza. Some complimentary items from the deli should round out a completely bizarre menu. Hot sauce is at the ready. BTW, there's nothing like a Guinness in Fall.
Good Luck, and have a great Football Sunday everyone!
Post-Game:
Week Nine Record: 4-7
Overall Record: 60-46-3
Schmear of the Week: 5-4
Bagels in the Basket: +14
Post-Game:
Week Nine Record: 4-7
Overall Record: 60-46-3
Schmear of the Week: 5-4
Bagels in the Basket: +14
Thursday, November 05, 2015
N.Y. Jets: Bowles Boils Over After Cross Country Plight
From the desk of: WALT MICHAELS' REVENGE
Ryan Fitzpatrick got sacked and fumbled on the Jets second play of the game. The Patriots recovered, and immediately parlayed that into an early field goal.
The Jets then short circuited on their very next possession at the New England 2-yard line, after marching 78 yards on 15 plays, only to settle for a tying field goal.
Fast-forward...
After another Nick Folk field goal put the Jets ahead 20-16 with 12:50 left in regulation, New England proceeded to score 14 unanswered points. The Patriots promptly marched 80 yards in 10 plays to take a 23-20 lead. Then, with 5:32 left in the 4th quarter, Tom Brady initiated another 10-play, 68-yard scoring drive giving the Patriots their ultimate 30-20 margin of victory.
Meanwhile, the Jets not having Chris Ivory running on all engines was not anticipated. The power back compromised his hamstring during the Jets very first play of the game. Were Ivory playing at full strength, who knows what sort of control the Jets could have exacted over the Patriots - as the overall effort and respective play sandwiched between the opening and closing minutes of the game was otherwise competitive.
Generally speaking, though, a hamstrung Chris Ivory is going to mean a compromised Jets attack. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Eric Decker, and to a lesser degree Brandon Marshall, managed just enough offense to trick one into thinking potential upset, if only fleetingly.
Chris Ivory's curiously hampered effort:
Tom Brady very literally performed his usual one man gang routine. He completed 34 of 54 attempts for 355 yards, with two touchdowns, and was also New England's top rusher. Tom Statue scrambled for 15 yards on 4 carries, with another touchdown.
Gang Green (in the face) suffered their biggest blow in the closing minute of the game, when center Nick Mangold injured his neck during the Jets final possession of the game.
All told, this game cost the Jets considerable altitude in the AFC East standings, while sustaining injuries to three key offensive players whom touch the ball most - Center, QB, and RB, in that order.
Geno Smith emerged from the Black Hole of Oakland only to remind everyone just how little he's improved after three years in the business. His appearance was made possible when Ryan Fitzpatrick (re)injured his non-throwing thumb that will eventually require surgery.
Moving forward, Ryan's availability will be based on his personal threshold for pain. He's been listed as a go for Sunday's game against the Jaguars. Taking snaps under center will prove most difficult, with handing off a close second.
I think Jets fans would even favor playing Fitz wearing oven mitts rather than risk falling further behind New England in the standings with Geno at the controls.
Not the most terrible looking line, but the visual was easily worse. Smith has moments when he shines, but the lights quickly go out and his mind fades to black when put under NFL duress. The Jets better hope Fitzpatrick can gut this out, otherwise Geno Smith will smear his own thumbprints all over the Jets chances for the postseason.
So, is Chris Ivory hurt, or not?
Chris Ivory's performance against the Raiders was even more peculiar than that against the Patriots. He rushed 15 times for 17 yards - that's no typo folks. He also caught 3 passes for 24 yards.
So what gives? Is he hurt or not?
The Jets did not just suddenly forget how to run block. And while Mangold's situation is certainly a hovering black cloud, I do not think his injury impacted the running game so greatly that the Raiders defense was able to limit Chris Ivory and Zac Stacy to a mere 28 combined rushing yards on 18 carries.
Something else is at work here, and I do not believe it was necessarily the Raiders.
If Ivory needs a week off, better give it to him against the Jaguars. A proactive rest now could potentially benefit the team later. I say with great confidence - no Chris Ivory entering December means no playoffs for the Jets.
Taxing his barking hammy for a third straight week could spell trouble. Take that to the hangar Jets fans.
Otherwise, if the Jets thought they were going to abandon the run, and match Tom Brady in a shoot-out, then what a colossal mistake it was.
Adversity at the Gates: Todd Bowles negotiating his first Gang Green crisis.
Todd Bowles is pissed off - and that's good. A return to health, a little luck, and constructive well directed anger can potentially transform the Jets into a fearsome second half opponent.
Half way though the regular season, though, they're already running low on margin for error.
As a defensive minded coach, Tom Brady's overall performance must have been an assault upon his senses. Everyone on the east coast knew Brady was either throwing, or running the ball himself - because that's all he did! What a ponderous game plan, or genius if you consider the source. I digress.
The Patriots made no secrets; employed no deception. Brady and Belichick effectively said here's what we're doing, we defy you to stop us. And, well, the Jets failed in that endeavor, crushingly, late in the game.
We are, after all speaking of a capable defense though. The recipe to beat Brady is public knowledge. You must hit him, often. The Jets sacked Brady three times, and hit him another five times through most of the game - just not late when they needed to most. But, hey, it's not like they lost to Steve Grogan.
What transpired the following week in Oakland, however, inspired Todd Bowles to utter a word I haven't heard used by a head coach in decades. Bowles dropped a #loafing bomb when summarizing their deplorable defensive effort against the Raiders. Indefensible lapses in brain function, poorly executed and missed tackles were all topic one. I'm sure the Defense was incredulous and embarrassed when presented the game film. If they weren't already, I'm sure Coach Bowles humbled them with haste.
Moving forward, the last two games were on the players. That damage is now a matter of recorded NFL history. The next game will reflect on Todd Bowles more than anyone. That's just the nature of the beast. The previous two weeks called for corrective measures, attitude adjustments, what have you... So, the next move was his to make.
That said, adversity is designed to knock one down. How one recovers is what matters most.
I like Todd Bowles. I like his demeanor and style. But that doesn't win games. Players win games, just ask Rex. I would add Bowles is far more poised and adept at administering discipline, and generally concerning himself with all aspects of the game than Ryan ever was. Two weeks does not a season make, and this is already a smoother flying Jet than its been in a few years.
After spending a week back in the Hangar getting lubed and retrofitted by Todd Bowles, I can't wait to see how the Jets respond this Sunday at home against the Jaguars.
A loss would incite a home crowd maelstrom - victory, a hero's welcome.
Turbulent Skies
New York Jets: Loafers Need Not Apply!
The Jets departed on a two week sortie, and nearly didn't make it back. Their coast to coast run from New England, to Oakland, then back to NYC was distressing at best - partly due to mechanical in-flight issues, and partly due to several players perhaps fearful of being on the same flight home as Coach Bowles. Suffice to say the mission was an utter failure. They came nowhere close to hitting their targets, and returned with casualties to key personnel.
Insult and Injury Sandwich an Otherwise Competitive Effort in Coach Bowles' much anticipated first game at Foxboro as HC of the NYJ.
Week Seven Final
Jets 23
Patriots 30
NYJ 7th straight loss at Foxboro
NYJ 7th straight loss at Foxboro
Ryan Fitzpatrick got sacked and fumbled on the Jets second play of the game. The Patriots recovered, and immediately parlayed that into an early field goal.
The Jets then short circuited on their very next possession at the New England 2-yard line, after marching 78 yards on 15 plays, only to settle for a tying field goal.
Fast-forward...
After another Nick Folk field goal put the Jets ahead 20-16 with 12:50 left in regulation, New England proceeded to score 14 unanswered points. The Patriots promptly marched 80 yards in 10 plays to take a 23-20 lead. Then, with 5:32 left in the 4th quarter, Tom Brady initiated another 10-play, 68-yard scoring drive giving the Patriots their ultimate 30-20 margin of victory.
Meanwhile, the Jets not having Chris Ivory running on all engines was not anticipated. The power back compromised his hamstring during the Jets very first play of the game. Were Ivory playing at full strength, who knows what sort of control the Jets could have exacted over the Patriots - as the overall effort and respective play sandwiched between the opening and closing minutes of the game was otherwise competitive.
Generally speaking, though, a hamstrung Chris Ivory is going to mean a compromised Jets attack. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Eric Decker, and to a lesser degree Brandon Marshall, managed just enough offense to trick one into thinking potential upset, if only fleetingly.
Chris Ivory's curiously hampered effort:
- @ New England - 17 rushes/41 yards - 2 catches/12 yards, touchdown.
- @ New England - 22 of 39, for 295 yards, with two touchdowns.
Tom Brady very literally performed his usual one man gang routine. He completed 34 of 54 attempts for 355 yards, with two touchdowns, and was also New England's top rusher. Tom Statue scrambled for 15 yards on 4 carries, with another touchdown.
Gang Green (in the face) suffered their biggest blow in the closing minute of the game, when center Nick Mangold injured his neck during the Jets final possession of the game.
All told, this game cost the Jets considerable altitude in the AFC East standings, while sustaining injuries to three key offensive players whom touch the ball most - Center, QB, and RB, in that order.
Oh no! Not you again: Geno Smith
Week Eight Final
Jets 20
Raiders 30
Geno Smith emerged from the Black Hole of Oakland only to remind everyone just how little he's improved after three years in the business. His appearance was made possible when Ryan Fitzpatrick (re)injured his non-throwing thumb that will eventually require surgery.
Moving forward, Ryan's availability will be based on his personal threshold for pain. He's been listed as a go for Sunday's game against the Jaguars. Taking snaps under center will prove most difficult, with handing off a close second.
I think Jets fans would even favor playing Fitz wearing oven mitts rather than risk falling further behind New England in the standings with Geno at the controls.
- Geno completed 27 of 42 pass attempts, for 265 yards, 2 touchdowns, and one INT.
Not the most terrible looking line, but the visual was easily worse. Smith has moments when he shines, but the lights quickly go out and his mind fades to black when put under NFL duress. The Jets better hope Fitzpatrick can gut this out, otherwise Geno Smith will smear his own thumbprints all over the Jets chances for the postseason.
So, is Chris Ivory hurt, or not?
Chris Ivory's performance against the Raiders was even more peculiar than that against the Patriots. He rushed 15 times for 17 yards - that's no typo folks. He also caught 3 passes for 24 yards.
So what gives? Is he hurt or not?
The Jets did not just suddenly forget how to run block. And while Mangold's situation is certainly a hovering black cloud, I do not think his injury impacted the running game so greatly that the Raiders defense was able to limit Chris Ivory and Zac Stacy to a mere 28 combined rushing yards on 18 carries.
Something else is at work here, and I do not believe it was necessarily the Raiders.
If Ivory needs a week off, better give it to him against the Jaguars. A proactive rest now could potentially benefit the team later. I say with great confidence - no Chris Ivory entering December means no playoffs for the Jets.
Taxing his barking hammy for a third straight week could spell trouble. Take that to the hangar Jets fans.
Otherwise, if the Jets thought they were going to abandon the run, and match Tom Brady in a shoot-out, then what a colossal mistake it was.
Adversity at the Gates: Todd Bowles negotiating his first Gang Green crisis.
Todd Bowles is pissed off - and that's good. A return to health, a little luck, and constructive well directed anger can potentially transform the Jets into a fearsome second half opponent.
Half way though the regular season, though, they're already running low on margin for error.
As a defensive minded coach, Tom Brady's overall performance must have been an assault upon his senses. Everyone on the east coast knew Brady was either throwing, or running the ball himself - because that's all he did! What a ponderous game plan, or genius if you consider the source. I digress.
The Patriots made no secrets; employed no deception. Brady and Belichick effectively said here's what we're doing, we defy you to stop us. And, well, the Jets failed in that endeavor, crushingly, late in the game.
We are, after all speaking of a capable defense though. The recipe to beat Brady is public knowledge. You must hit him, often. The Jets sacked Brady three times, and hit him another five times through most of the game - just not late when they needed to most. But, hey, it's not like they lost to Steve Grogan.
What transpired the following week in Oakland, however, inspired Todd Bowles to utter a word I haven't heard used by a head coach in decades. Bowles dropped a #loafing bomb when summarizing their deplorable defensive effort against the Raiders. Indefensible lapses in brain function, poorly executed and missed tackles were all topic one. I'm sure the Defense was incredulous and embarrassed when presented the game film. If they weren't already, I'm sure Coach Bowles humbled them with haste.
Moving forward, the last two games were on the players. That damage is now a matter of recorded NFL history. The next game will reflect on Todd Bowles more than anyone. That's just the nature of the beast. The previous two weeks called for corrective measures, attitude adjustments, what have you... So, the next move was his to make.
That said, adversity is designed to knock one down. How one recovers is what matters most.
I like Todd Bowles. I like his demeanor and style. But that doesn't win games. Players win games, just ask Rex. I would add Bowles is far more poised and adept at administering discipline, and generally concerning himself with all aspects of the game than Ryan ever was. Two weeks does not a season make, and this is already a smoother flying Jet than its been in a few years.
After spending a week back in the Hangar getting lubed and retrofitted by Todd Bowles, I can't wait to see how the Jets respond this Sunday at home against the Jaguars.
A loss would incite a home crowd maelstrom - victory, a hero's welcome.
Tuesday, November 03, 2015
N.Y. Mets: That's Life in the Citi; A Big Apple Wrap-Up
That's a wrap.
The 111th World Series is done.
The Kansas City Royals triumphed
over the New York Mets four games to one.
The 111th World Series is done.
The Kansas City Royals triumphed
over the New York Mets four games to one.
Here's out latest podcast at RisingApple.com detailing it all.
ICYMI:
10/29/2015
10/29/2015
Rich and I offered our post Kansas City reactions, and previewed the series shift to Citi Field.
This was not necessarily a G-Rated show. You've been warned.
This was not necessarily a G-Rated show. You've been warned.
GAMES
3 * 4 * 5
2015 World Series Reflections
Met Fan Rich hosted. Together we welcomed
Greg Prince from FaithAndFearInFlushing.com
Here's my latest article posted Tuesday evening:
In the 9th inning of Game 5,
I feel David Wright exercised poor positional discipline.
Read my explanation here..
Met Fan Rich hosted. Together we welcomed
Greg Prince from FaithAndFearInFlushing.com
Here's my latest article posted Tuesday evening:
In the 9th inning of Game 5,
I feel David Wright exercised poor positional discipline.
Read my explanation here..
Last one out turn off the lights..!
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
N.Y. Mets: After the Fall
Two for Tuesday
Here are my latest articles for
A congratulatory piece, and acknowledgment
of Kansas City's amazing small ball consistency:
of Kansas City's amazing small ball consistency:
The game I believe Yoenis Cespedes' season
took a dramatic turn for the worse.
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Monday, November 02, 2015
N.Y. Giants: Big Easy Hangover
From the desk of: DO IT FOR THE DUKE
NEW YORK GIANTS: Yes, Eli really is an elite quarterback!
Eli Manning took over sole possession of 10th place on the NFL's all-time career touchdowns list by throwing six TD passes during Sunday's 52-49 loss against the Saints in his home town of New Orleans.
His fourth TD pass against the Saints pushed him passed Joe Montana. Eli's sixth and final TD pass was the 276th for his career, moving him ahead of Vinny Testaverde. Next on the career ladder is Johnny Unitas with 291 touchdown passes.
Eli now has 17 touchdowns with just 4 INTs at the halfway point of the season. He was 30/41 for 350 yards against the Saints, putting him over 2,000 yards for the season, and keeping him on pace for the fifth 4K season of his 12-year career.
But, what's the sense if...
I know love is blind, but who didn't see this debacle coming?
These Giants do not handle success very well to begin with. In my PIGSKIN picks, I warned everyone to look back at what Tony Romo, Matt Ryan, Sam Bradford, Kirk Cousins, and Colin Kaepernick all did to the Giants secondary. Even Matt Cassel had his moments during the Giants second game against Dallas.
Did you really think Brees would do any less?
Not only was Drew Brees the best quarterback the Giants have faced this season to date, he established a new career high with 511 passing yards, and tied an NFL record with seven touchdown passes.
Dominque Rogers-Cromartie recorded the game's lone interception on a day which saw Eli Manning and Drew Brees combine for 91 pass attempts and 13 touchdown passes. And while that was DRC's third INT in the last two games, Sunday's was just another indictment added to a long list of many levied against the Giants' overall secondary play.
Naturally, lack of a professional grade pass rush is equally to blame. In the 50 times Drew Brees dropped back to pass, the Giants managed no sacks and just three QB hits all game.
Despite the Giants securing two New Orleans turnovers, the Saints still controlled the ball for 34:59 and posted 614 total yards (versus 416 for the Giants).
Otherwise, some things have not changed...
The Giants rushed 21 times for 87 yards:
New Orleans Mark Ingram rushed 16 times for 80 yards by himself. All told, the Saints rushed 25 times for 102 total yards.
Giants continue throwing rocks through their windows of opportunity
NEW YORK GIANTS: Yes, Eli really is an elite quarterback!
Eli Manning took over sole possession of 10th place on the NFL's all-time career touchdowns list by throwing six TD passes during Sunday's 52-49 loss against the Saints in his home town of New Orleans.
His fourth TD pass against the Saints pushed him passed Joe Montana. Eli's sixth and final TD pass was the 276th for his career, moving him ahead of Vinny Testaverde. Next on the career ladder is Johnny Unitas with 291 touchdown passes.
Eli now has 17 touchdowns with just 4 INTs at the halfway point of the season. He was 30/41 for 350 yards against the Saints, putting him over 2,000 yards for the season, and keeping him on pace for the fifth 4K season of his 12-year career.
But, what's the sense if...
I know love is blind, but who didn't see this debacle coming?
These Giants do not handle success very well to begin with. In my PIGSKIN picks, I warned everyone to look back at what Tony Romo, Matt Ryan, Sam Bradford, Kirk Cousins, and Colin Kaepernick all did to the Giants secondary. Even Matt Cassel had his moments during the Giants second game against Dallas.
Did you really think Brees would do any less?
Not only was Drew Brees the best quarterback the Giants have faced this season to date, he established a new career high with 511 passing yards, and tied an NFL record with seven touchdown passes.
Dominque Rogers-Cromartie recorded the game's lone interception on a day which saw Eli Manning and Drew Brees combine for 91 pass attempts and 13 touchdown passes. And while that was DRC's third INT in the last two games, Sunday's was just another indictment added to a long list of many levied against the Giants' overall secondary play.
Naturally, lack of a professional grade pass rush is equally to blame. In the 50 times Drew Brees dropped back to pass, the Giants managed no sacks and just three QB hits all game.
Despite the Giants securing two New Orleans turnovers, the Saints still controlled the ball for 34:59 and posted 614 total yards (versus 416 for the Giants).
Otherwise, some things have not changed...
The Giants rushed 21 times for 87 yards:
- Rashad Jennings 10 rushes for 54 yards.
- After opening eyes last week, Orleans Darkwa was limited to just 4 carries for 23 yards.
- Andre Williams rushed 5 time for 7 yards.
- Shane Vereen rushed twice for 3 yards.
New Orleans Mark Ingram rushed 16 times for 80 yards by himself. All told, the Saints rushed 25 times for 102 total yards.
And the moral of the story is...
Once upon a time, Tom Coughlin was handed a great defense, and a powerful running game. He in turn handed the starting quarterback job to Eli Manning in 2004, whom together added another dimension to a Giants team primarily constructed by Ernie Accorsi.
Today, there's no longer a defense to speak of, and certainly no running game worth mentioning. All that's left of those days are Coughlin and Eli, with Jerry Reese providing them a never ending flow of wide receivers.
These days Big Blue lives to throw, and throws to live.
It's so flawed.
Sunday, November 01, 2015
N.Y.Mets: Dark Knight Looms - Game Five
Here's my latest for
GAME FIVE
Kansas City Royals
vs.
New York Mets
FROM
CITI FIELD
Queens
Saturday, October 31, 2015
PIGSKIN 2015: Week Eight
PIGSKIN
FOOTBALL SUNDAY
Week Eight
RESULTS
Week Five
Week Six
Week Seven
Week Six
Week Seven
Scoreboard:
Week Seven Record: 6-5
Overall Record: 50-36-2
Schmear of the Week: 4-3
Bagels in the Basket: +15
1st and Ten:
- Deflate This! The Patriots are trampling the competition like Godzilla going through Tokyo. Boy, are they playing pissed off pigskin. Every one of their AFC leading touchdowns has been like a middle finger raised at the NFL.
- The Bengals are out of the cage, and hot on New England's trail for Conference supremacy.
- Someone must lose: Broncos vs. Packers > One team will remain undefeated, the other will experience their first bitter taste of defeat.
2nd and Long:
- No secret which team will be keeping their eyes peeled on the score in Denver. Wanna bet the Falcons wished they played in the NFC East?
- The Jets must survive the Black Hole in order to keep within striking distance of the Patriots.
- Who would have though the Vikes would be poised to go 5-3 in the first half?
No Gain:
- Stalemate: They'll be no movement in the NFC West this week, except for the 49ers that is, as they'll fall further behind the pack. I expect the Cardinals, Rams, and Seahawks, all to win Sunday.
- The Giants are in first place, but do not seem to handle success well. Look for the them to get dumped in the Dome.
PUNT!
- The NFL is straight pimping with Fan Duel/Draft Kings, etc., aren't they...
Week Eight:
Friday Line ~ NYDN
SAINTS -3 (Giants)
To date, Drew Brees will be the best QB the Giants will have faced this season. Take a look back at what Tony Romo, Sam Bradford, Kirk Cousins, Colin Kaepernick, and Matt Ryan all did to them. Even Matt Cassel had his moments against the Giants defense/secondary. You think Brees will do any less? I didn't think so.
Push; 52-49 Saints
Push; 52-49 Saints
Jets -3 (RAIDERS)
Jets estimated time of arrival in the Black Hole = not soon enough. After last week, the Jets are chomping at the bit. First, what a great rivalry revisited! Raiders fans are having fun again - just not this week. I'm not one for moral victories, but, look back at who the Patriots have played and you'll find the Jets have arguably given them the best run for their money. Good defense and an effective running are not fluke happenings in the NFL. I know the Jets are a little banged up. But, I still do not foresee Latavius Murray doing much running against the Jets front seven, nor do I foresee a pleasant day for Derek Carr and Amari Cooper against the Jets secondary.
Loss; 32-20 Raiders
CHIEFS -4 (LIONS) *LONDON
Loss; 32-20 Raiders
CHIEFS -4 (LIONS) *LONDON
Once upon a time, a waitress in London called me a colonist. I told her London was no place for a Street Fightin' Man. True story. That said, the NFL continues to export its trash across the Pond. The Lions are one of only two teams to have allowed 200-points this season. One might think this an assault upon an Englishman's senses - considering they're more accustomed to one-nil matches and all... Just saying.
WIN; 45-10 Chiefs
Vikings +1 (BEARS)
WIN; 45-10 Chiefs
Vikings +1 (BEARS)
The Bears lost to the Lions. No other team can say that. Plus, I'm just sick of picking against the Vikings, and losing. Otherwise, I got nothing.
WIN; 23-20 Vikings
WIN; 23-20 Vikings
FALCONS -7 (Bucs)
The Bucs give up touchdowns. It's what they do. Matt Ryan would make a great fantasy pick this week.
Loss; 23-20 Bucs
Loss; 23-20 Bucs
RAMS -8 (49ers)
Neither team actually scores many points. It's just that one team is averaging 15-points a game and improving, while the other is averaging the same, but falling apart like wet toilet paper. Defense makes this a no contest. Put it this way - what do you imagine would/could have happened if a fully grown male ram walked up on some unsuspecting gold prospector back in 1849 California?
WIN; 27-6 Rams
WIN; 27-6 Rams
Cardinals -6 (BROWNS)
Let's be honest, does it really matter who starts at QB for the Browns? They're like a slow acting laxative - relief only comes after sitting around enduring a lot of crap all day. If the Cardinals don't scream obvious choice, you're just not listening. Try taking out your headphones dummy.
WIN; 34-20 Cardinals
WIN; 34-20 Cardinals
Bengals +1 1/2 (STEELERS)
Big Ben is back! But he's gonna need at least another week before he gets going again. Regardless, Pittsburgh's defense will have their hands full. The Bengals are second in the AFC behind the Patriots in touchdowns. The Steelers must resolve that first. How can you not love this spread?
WIN; 16-10 Bengals
WIN; 16-10 Bengals
Chargers + 3 1/2 (RAVENS)
I keep convincing myself the Chargers are better than they've demonstrated. Meanwhile, the Ravens are even worse than I anticipated. In other words, this is my least confident pick of the lot.
WIN; 29-26 Ravens
WIN; 29-26 Ravens
TEXANS -4 (Titans)
For a second straight week, no Mariota for you. That's the only reason why I'm taking the Texans this week. What a major disappointment Houston has been this season. They should be ashamed after last week's shellacking against the Fins..
WIN; 20-6 Texans
WIN; 20-6 Texans
Seahawks -6 (COWBOYS)
Look no further than last week. The Giants field one of the most generous secondaries in football, and look what they did to Matt Cassel. What do you suppose the Legion of Boom will do him?
Loss; 13-12 Seahawks
Loss; 13-12 Seahawks
Packers -2 1/2 (BRONCOS)
Two good defenses will turn this into a grudge match. However, Sunday will belong to the younger, more agile/mobile quarterback.
Loss; 29-10 Broncos
Loss; 29-10 Broncos
Schmear of the Week:
Rams -8
WIN
WIN
Guten Appetit:
Fried calamari, shrimp platter, crab salad, baked clams oreganata, and later for the sit down 2" filet mignon (there's still a place in my world for good butchers) with lobster tails.
What's on your football menu?
What's on your football menu?
Good luck, and have a great Football Sunday everyone!
Post-Game:
Week Eight Record: 7-4-1
Overall Record: 57-39-3
Schmear of the Week: 5-3
Bagels in the Basket: +20
Post-Game:
Week Eight Record: 7-4-1
Overall Record: 57-39-3
Schmear of the Week: 5-3
Bagels in the Basket: +20
Friday, October 30, 2015
N.Y. Mets: An Aggressive World Series Podcast; Game 3
Here's our latest World Series podcast at
This definitely AINT Kansas, Toto!
THE AGGGRESSSIVE PODCAST!
Warning:
This was not the most G-Rated show we've ever had!
Yours truly unleashed at least two F-Bombs, I can recall. The first one just came out, I swear.
Let's just chalk the second one up to anger management. How irresponsible of me.
Rich hosted and said a bad word too! So.., there!
Blame Sam. He set the tone by saying - This Sucks.
Recap of Games 1 & 2 @ Kansas City
Did the Mets go away from their strengths?
We try and determine what went wrong in Kansas City.
Preview of Games 3 and 4 @ Citi Field
Noah Syndergaard and Steven Matz
What needs to go right at Citi Field.
Plus all the who, what, why, and when,
Mets fans need to hear.
As Sam put it - Chris Young? C'MON!
Mets Down, But Not Out of World Series
* * * WORLD SERIES * * *
GAME THREE
Kansas City Royals
vs.
New York Mets
FROM
Queens, NYC,
* * * WORLD SERIES * * *
GAME THREE
Kansas City Royals
vs.
New York Mets
FROM
Queens, NYC,
Roosevelt Avenue to be exact.
Mike
Senior Staff Writer/Rising Apple
Thursday, October 29, 2015
N.Y. Mets: The Four Hurlers of the Metropolis - Thor's Turn
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
GAME FACE!
The Four Hurlers of the Metropolis
Dark Knight * deGrominator * Thor * Mad Matz
WORLD SERIES
Pitching Match-Ups
Royals @ Mets
GAME THREE @ Citi Field
Yordano Ventura
vs.
Noah Syndergaard
Mets Need Thor to Drop His Hammer on Kansas City Royals
It is easy forgetting Noah Syndergaard is just a rookie.
Game 3 against the Royals at Citi Field will be his 27th overall start at the major league level, and his 3rd of this postseason. Thor is also poised to pitch Game 7 in Kansas City, if necessary.
In 24 regular season starts, Thor posted a 9-7 record with a 3.24 ERA, and 1.047 WHiP. He fanned 166 batters in 150 innings pitched for a 10.0 K/9 average, to go along with a 1.9 W/9 average.
He's been even better during the playoffs. In two starts and one relief appearance, Syndergaard is 1-1 so far with a 2.77 ERA and a 1.077 WHiP. He has 20 strikeouts in 13 inning pitched, for a 13.8 K/9 average.
Many questioned why Thor pitched in Los Angeles against the Dodgers, and not at Citi Field. His splits said he was a decidedly better pitcher at home, than on the road this season.
- HOME: 12 starts, 7-2 record, 84 innings pitched, 2.46 ERA, 0.821 WHiP, 59 hits (10 HR) allowed with a .196 average against, 10 walks, 86 strikeouts with a 9.2 K.9 average.
- AWAY: 12 starts, 2-5 record, 66 innings pitched, 4.23 ERA, 1.333 WHiP, 67 hits (9HR) allowed with a .258 average against, 21 walks, 80 strikeouts with a 10.9 K/9 average.
Syndergaard indeed took the loss at Chavez Ravine, but did not pitch that badly. In 6.1 innings he allowed three earned runs on five hits and four walks, with nine strikeouts.
And therein lies the rub...
Noah Syndergaard's control is clearly enhanced by the familiarity of Citi Field's mound. On the road, Thor's rate of walk climbs the rainbow bridge to Asgard.
His second ever postseason start came against the Cubs in the NLCS at Citi Field. Thor's control improved over his previous start. In 5.2 inning, he allowed just one earned run on 3 hits and one walk, with another nine strikeouts.
He climbs the mound in Game 3 with the Met down 0-2 in the series to the Royals. It is safe to say, the Mets are desperate to avoid falling further behind without so much as a victory to speak of. They need Thor to drop his hammer on the visitors from Kansas City like a young Tom Seaver, or a young Dwight Gooden once did. That's an awful lot of pressure being place upon a rookie - but a very poised rookie.
Opposing him will be Yordano Ventura, 24, whom finished sixth behind Jacob deGrom in last year's Rookie of the Year balloting.
The sophomore pitcher started 28 regular season games, in which he posted a 13-8 record with an American League-ish 4.08 ERA. He struck out 156 batters in 163.1 innings pitched, with a 3.2 W/9 average.
Game 3 will mark his fifth postseason start. He's so far made two starts each against Houston, then Toronto. Ventura is 0-1 with three no-decisions. After 17.2 innings pitched he owns a 5.09 ERA, and a .278 average against, with 21 strikeouts.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Knicks and Nets: The Not Ready For Prime Time Cagers
From the desks of:
DUTCH PANTS CAN'T JUMP and THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH
If futility ignited rivalries,
this one would be a 3-alarm fire.
Like Two Bottle Rockets in the New York Night...
Remember how Carmelo Anthony's haste for leaving the Denver Nuggets, and seeking a max-contract before the league's new CBA kicked in (that would have otherwise reigned in his earning potential as a free agent) almost got him traded to the New Jersey Nets?
Remember how the Carmelo Anthony tug-o-war between the Nets and Knicks unfolded, or rather, how James Dolan trampled over Donnie Walsh in his own haste to intercept Carmelo?
Both teams were prepared to show Melo the money, so to say. But the Knicks ultimately offered more players than could the Nets, and so on Feb. 22, 2011, Carmelo Anthony became a Knick.
That seemingly set the next day's headlines in stone - until the Nets secured guard Deron Williams from the Utah Jazz under cover of night. In an astonishing turn of events, the Feb. 23rd morning tabloids proclaimed New Jersey's trade for a top point guard trumped New York's acquisition of a high scoring small forward.
Then came the Nets move into Brooklyn (Knicks' turf, the land of Bernard King), and an inevitable clash between owners James Dolan and Mikhail Prokhorov. You might say Prokhorov stuck Dolan with a hot cattle prod when he first purchased billboard space two blocks from Madison Square Garden, and again when he decreed the Brooklyn Nets would win a championship within three short years.
The hardwood battle, however, was supposed to feature supreme two performances - the respective abilities of Carmelo Anthony and Deron Williams in leading their respective teams, and boroughs, to postseason glory.
In 2012-2013, the city got a small taste of what could potentially still become a furious inter-city rivalry (perchance to dream....). The Knicks and Nets finished one and two atop the Atlantic Division:
The hardwood battle, however, was supposed to feature supreme two performances - the respective abilities of Carmelo Anthony and Deron Williams in leading their respective teams, and boroughs, to postseason glory.
In 2012-2013, the city got a small taste of what could potentially still become a furious inter-city rivalry (perchance to dream....). The Knicks and Nets finished one and two atop the Atlantic Division:
- Knicks (54-28); Carmelo Anthony led the league with 28.7 points per game. His team advanced passed the Boston Celtics in the first round of playoffs, then bowed to the Indiana Pacers in Round 2.
- Nets (49-33); Deron Williams averaged 18.9 ppg. and 7.7 assists. In their inaugural season playing in Brooklyn, the Nets fell to an undermanned Chicago Bulls team.
If you missed it, too bad, because that's as good as things got. If futility ignited rivalries, this one would be a 3-alarm fire.
The Knicks quite literally fell off a cliff, forcing Dolan into somewhat out-of-the-box thinking. Alas, he called on 1970's Knickerbocker hero/1990's Bulls nemesis Phil Jackson to help clean up the mess, despite a glaring lack of front office experience.
The Knicks failed to reach the playoffs in each of the last two seasons. In 2013-14, they posted a sub-par 37-45 record. Then came last season's record breaking disaster, in which the Knicks posted a 17-65 record, that some might argue was solely authored by the man (Phil Jackson) whom help the Knicks win their last championship over 40-years ago.
On July 13, 2014, the Knicks ponderously re-signed Carmelo Anthony to another max-pact, which totally flew in the face of Phil Jackson's rebuilding effort.
Brooklyn's rate of regression wasn't as shocking as that of the Knicks, but has been no less methodically painful to watch. The Nets made the playoffs in 2013-2014 with a 44-38 record, and again last year with a sub-par 38-44 record.
While Melo was in full effect at Madison Square Garden, Deron Williams was incredibly ineffective during most of his time with Brooklyn. Never able to shake the injury bug, he struggled mightily after accepting the role of franchise player.
On July 11, 2015, Deron Williams was mercifully waived by the Nets.
Like two bottle rockets on a mid-summer night, the fireworks demonstration over the East River anticipated by Manhattan and Brooklyn alike fizzled out.
Even the owners stopped taking cheap shots at each other.
Now what?
Brooklyn Nets: The unraveling realm of Billy King.
As noted, the Nets are in regression. After posting 49 wins during their inaugural season in Brooklyn, they slipped to 44 wins in year two, to only 38 wins last year.
Brook Lopez and Joe Johnson are still here, but the player formerly known as the franchise, is not. Deron Williams plays for Dallas now, waived by Billy King. He follows Gerald Wallace, Paul Pierce, Alan Anderson, Kevin Garnett, and the seemingly hundreds of other players Billy King has brought in and out of Kings County.
With Williams gone, Jarrett Jack takes over the lead point guard role this season, but will not be available when the Nets host the Bulls in Wednesday night's season opener at Barclays Center. Until Jack's hamstring gets jumping again, Shane Larkin will open the season at point.
Mason Plumlee is gone too. Not happy about that!
Re-signing Brook Lopez was one small step for the Nets, but two giant feet of trouble for Brooklyn-kind. The free agent opted to stay with the Nets - the only team he's known since 2008.
Brook played 82 games in each of his first three seasons, but not since. His history of on and off again foot issues screams beware in 2015-2016. He was limited to just 5 games in 2011-2012, then followed up with 74 games in 2012-2013. He only appeared in 17 games during 2013-2014, then followed up again with 72 games played last season.
Will this turn into another problematic season for Brook and the Nets?
While his feet say one thing, Coach Hollins says another. Remember how Lionel Hollins effectively benched Lopez? Last season marked the first time Brook failed to start in any game which he played going back to his rookie season. Last year he only started 44 of his 72 games played.
Joe Johnson is entering the final season of his contract. That's nice, but the upcoming season won't be.
Lionel Hollins will make them play defense, but this does not strike me as a top eight Eastern Conference team.
That said, can someone explain to me why Billy King is still in charge?
New York Knicks: Carmelo Anthony, Phil Jackson, and Derek Fisher; a Triumvirate of Dysfunction.
Either they change the Knicks narrative together, or not at all...
Why re-sign Carmelo Anthony? Last season, he played with a knee injury that would ultimately require surgery. He played injured since opening night, yet only cared long enough in order to play in the all-star game before shutting down his season.
The Knicks entered the all-star break with a 10-43 record. They ranked either last, or next to last on both offense and defense. So why was he playing in the first place?
Exactly!
Robin Lopez gets to playing the same city as his brother, though. That's nice.
Not so nice - Carmelo Anthony's reaction to Phil Jackson drafting Kristaps Porzingis. Way to make the kid feel welcome. If Melo knew the Knicks were in rebuilding mode, why re-sign with them? I'm sure it had nothing to do with the Knicks ability to pay more than all other suitors...
Exactly!
This is still Melo's World. We just get to live in it and watch. Although, I'm still terribly interested to see who prevails as Knicks alpha-male - Phil Jackson or Carmelo Anthony. Coach Fisher will be their battleground personified.
Team projections? Don't make me laugh. The Knicks will be lucky to win 25 games.
The Knicks quite literally fell off a cliff, forcing Dolan into somewhat out-of-the-box thinking. Alas, he called on 1970's Knickerbocker hero/1990's Bulls nemesis Phil Jackson to help clean up the mess, despite a glaring lack of front office experience.
The Knicks failed to reach the playoffs in each of the last two seasons. In 2013-14, they posted a sub-par 37-45 record. Then came last season's record breaking disaster, in which the Knicks posted a 17-65 record, that some might argue was solely authored by the man (Phil Jackson) whom help the Knicks win their last championship over 40-years ago.
On July 13, 2014, the Knicks ponderously re-signed Carmelo Anthony to another max-pact, which totally flew in the face of Phil Jackson's rebuilding effort.
Brooklyn's rate of regression wasn't as shocking as that of the Knicks, but has been no less methodically painful to watch. The Nets made the playoffs in 2013-2014 with a 44-38 record, and again last year with a sub-par 38-44 record.
While Melo was in full effect at Madison Square Garden, Deron Williams was incredibly ineffective during most of his time with Brooklyn. Never able to shake the injury bug, he struggled mightily after accepting the role of franchise player.
On July 11, 2015, Deron Williams was mercifully waived by the Nets.
Like two bottle rockets on a mid-summer night, the fireworks demonstration over the East River anticipated by Manhattan and Brooklyn alike fizzled out.
Even the owners stopped taking cheap shots at each other.
Now what?
Brooklyn Nets: The unraveling realm of Billy King.
As noted, the Nets are in regression. After posting 49 wins during their inaugural season in Brooklyn, they slipped to 44 wins in year two, to only 38 wins last year.
Brook Lopez and Joe Johnson are still here, but the player formerly known as the franchise, is not. Deron Williams plays for Dallas now, waived by Billy King. He follows Gerald Wallace, Paul Pierce, Alan Anderson, Kevin Garnett, and the seemingly hundreds of other players Billy King has brought in and out of Kings County.
With Williams gone, Jarrett Jack takes over the lead point guard role this season, but will not be available when the Nets host the Bulls in Wednesday night's season opener at Barclays Center. Until Jack's hamstring gets jumping again, Shane Larkin will open the season at point.
Mason Plumlee is gone too. Not happy about that!
Re-signing Brook Lopez was one small step for the Nets, but two giant feet of trouble for Brooklyn-kind. The free agent opted to stay with the Nets - the only team he's known since 2008.
Brook played 82 games in each of his first three seasons, but not since. His history of on and off again foot issues screams beware in 2015-2016. He was limited to just 5 games in 2011-2012, then followed up with 74 games in 2012-2013. He only appeared in 17 games during 2013-2014, then followed up again with 72 games played last season.
Will this turn into another problematic season for Brook and the Nets?
While his feet say one thing, Coach Hollins says another. Remember how Lionel Hollins effectively benched Lopez? Last season marked the first time Brook failed to start in any game which he played going back to his rookie season. Last year he only started 44 of his 72 games played.
Joe Johnson is entering the final season of his contract. That's nice, but the upcoming season won't be.
Lionel Hollins will make them play defense, but this does not strike me as a top eight Eastern Conference team.
That said, can someone explain to me why Billy King is still in charge?
New York Knicks: Carmelo Anthony, Phil Jackson, and Derek Fisher; a Triumvirate of Dysfunction.
Either they change the Knicks narrative together, or not at all...
Why re-sign Carmelo Anthony? Last season, he played with a knee injury that would ultimately require surgery. He played injured since opening night, yet only cared long enough in order to play in the all-star game before shutting down his season.
The Knicks entered the all-star break with a 10-43 record. They ranked either last, or next to last on both offense and defense. So why was he playing in the first place?
Exactly!
Robin Lopez gets to playing the same city as his brother, though. That's nice.
Not so nice - Carmelo Anthony's reaction to Phil Jackson drafting Kristaps Porzingis. Way to make the kid feel welcome. If Melo knew the Knicks were in rebuilding mode, why re-sign with them? I'm sure it had nothing to do with the Knicks ability to pay more than all other suitors...
Exactly!
This is still Melo's World. We just get to live in it and watch. Although, I'm still terribly interested to see who prevails as Knicks alpha-male - Phil Jackson or Carmelo Anthony. Coach Fisher will be their battleground personified.
Team projections? Don't make me laugh. The Knicks will be lucky to win 25 games.
This non-burgeoning rivalry is still in search of better days.
Their Dec. 4 clash will be nothing more than a pillow fight,
as both contend for a second division participation trophy.
N.Y. Mets: A Long Trip From Brooklyn to Kansas City
From the desks of:
HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET and THE SURF AVENUE SLUGGERS
Coney Island to Kansas City: 1,230 miles
NEW YORK METS: What's a kid from Brooklyn doing in a place like Kansas City? Anybody know a good place for an egg cream?
For several Mets players, and many Mets fans, the trip to Kansas City for this year's World Series showdown against the Royals started in good old Brooklyn town.
Starting with Daniel Murphy back in 2006, and through last year when Michael Conforto nearly led the Brooklyn Cyclones to the NYPL playoffs single-handed, Lucas Duda, Wilmer Flores, Kirk Nieuwenhuis, Kevin Plawecki, and Juan Lagares, all additionally called Kings County their transient
home.
I feel it is my great fortune to have the Brooklyn Cyclones playing in my back yard. Then again, Coney Island is every Brooklynite's back yard and playground.
Watching Mets young hopefuls get their first real taste of big market baseball has been a
rewarding experience over the last 15 years for me.
How can Brooklyn and baseball, and Baseball in Brooklyn, provide otherwise?
It's a natural!
Now we get to see and root for some our favorite Baby Bums on the biggest stage of all. Cheering them on the way we do in Brooklyn sort of makes us feel like proud parents.
Represent us well, Boys, and Let's Go Mets!
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