UCLA & Kansas Emerging As Tournament Nears.

Don't look now but early season prognosticators are tabbing UCLA also Kansas as the two teams most likely to meet in the NCAA basketball finals. A talented bunch, the Bruins are led by bruising center, Kevin Love, and forward, Josh Shipp. The transition game is sparked by versatile guard, Darren Collison, who impressed many scouts in last year's final four match up against Florida. UCLA comes from the deepest conference in the nation: the Pacific Ten; hence they'll be battle tested come tournament time. Kansas is also toned featuring outstanding potential pros like Darnell Jackson, Brandon Rush, also Mario Chalmers, but UCLA dismissed this same Jayhawk club in last year's elite eight showdown. This season's current poll sitter, North Carolina, is solid. The Tar Heels, however, lack depth; therefore it's odds on they'll run out gas just like they did last year. The other contenders are Georgetown, Memphis, also Texas AM but those squads will need a little luck to go the distance. Keep your eyes on UCLA and Kansas; the key will be if the NCAA selection committee puts them in the same regional, otherwise its very foreseeable those two could meet in the final. In the NFL, long time St. Louis Rams owner, Georgia Frontiere, passed away today at the age of 80. She became the first female owner of a professional football team. Frontiere became well known as the dragon lady for moving the Rams from Los Angeles to her hometown, St. Louis. She claims to have relocated the organization because of faltering attendance; Los Angeles based sportswriters however, maintain she couldn't resist the $20-million dollar enticement paid out by St. Louis. Known as Madame Ram, she inherited the club from her late husband, Caroll Rosenbloom, who died in a drowning incident off the coast of Florida. In a bit of irony, he became the second of Frontiere's consorts to expire accidentally. To this day, some of her detractors believe Rosenbloom was murdered. Frontiere, nevertheless, left the Rams with a value of $902-million dollars, and she bestowed her portion of the squad, 60%, to her son also daughter. In the NFC title game Sunday, the young Packers are on a roll and should prevail over the courageous Giants. In the AFC championship, the Chargers would be my pick if they were healthy: their secondary led by Quinton Jammar, is very capable of stymieing the Pats vaunted passing game, but the nagging knee injuries to quarterback, Phillip Rivers, is likely to catch up with the Chargers on Sunday. I like New England, but I don't think they'll cover the spread.

Bucanneers lose their manhood

The Giants took a lot more from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers than a playoff game, the G-men also snatched the Bucs' manhood. In fact, this contest resembled a botched circumcision; ouch! This was a New York team, mind you, that was playing without three starters. The center, Shaun O'hara, their corner back, Sam Madison, also tight end, Jeremy Shockey; yet, the Giants didn't miss a beat. In a season ending game against the New England Patriots, the Giants decided to throw all caution to the wind by playing their starters. The Bucs, meanwhile, rested several key players while losing their last three regular season contests. Gruden's decision to rest his stars cost journey man running back, Ernest Graham, a chance to gain 1, 000 yards while quarterback, Jeff Garcia, openly complained about being rusty going into the playoffs. In a contact sport , a coach who constantly carps about injuries could be unconsciously portraying his team as soft to a league full of virile men. For the Giants, this was no signature win. Beating Tampa is akin to besting second tier clubs like the Houston Texans, San Francisco 49ers, or Cardinals. Think about it, would Tampa have been 7-9 or 9-7 with a healthy Jake Delhome in Carolina; how would the Atlanta Falcons have fared if Michael Vick were not in prison. Finally, what happens if the Saints don't try that crazy play in the waning moments of their game against the Buccaneers. All things considered, Tampa was lucky, and Gruden has brought some time for this coming season; but they will need to become smart players in free agency. A stronger receiving corps, along with a break away running back would help them make up some ground in the mediocre NFC. Meanwhile, take the Cowboys and points against the Giants Sunday.

Giants have a small margin for error.

Perhaps the most difficult contest in the NFL to handicap this weekend is the game featuring the New York Giants at Tampa Bay. Tampa is 6-2 at home while the G-men are 7-1 on the road. The Bucs rested some of their key starters for nearly two weeks; the Giants, meanwhile, went all out last Saturday against the Patriots. That being said, the Giants should have the mental edge Sunday in Tampa. Resting your players out fear of injury is a wimpy way to enter the playoffs...that point alone will not be lost on a very physical Giant football team that manhandled the Patriots. Secondly, New York probably has a smaller margin for error. Consider, the Bucs have a plus ratio of 9 meaning they rest on turnovers to inspire an anemic offense. On the surface, it seems all the Giants have to do is eliminate mistakes to win. Thirdly, Tampa Bay's offense struggles in the red zone; hence, their third down conversion rate is a feeble 30%. Consequently if they get a lead, its doubtful they can put their opponent in the refrigerator. Lastly, quarterback, Jeff Garcia, is 2-0 against New York beating them with the 49ers in 2002 and last year while subbing for Donovan McNabb. Even so, Garcia's mobility can create problems because it allows him to improvise out of the pocket; unlike the past however, the Giants speedy linebackers can nullify that aspect of his game. Although the G-men are 0-3 in wild card games, their past failures should give them plenty of motivation to finish this job. Looking at the schedules, the common opponents were the Detroit Lions also the Redskins. The Giants won in Motown and walloped the Skins twice. The Bucs were beaten soundly in Detroit and were handed the game by the Redskins. Washington committed six turnovers in the first half but still had a chance to win in the closing seconds. More importantly, Tampa Bay was being out muscled by the 49ers before Gruden removed some of his starters. Out of respect for John Gruden also Bruce Allen, they have done a remarkable job in turning around last year's 4-11 team, but asking for more than a crippled South division title is getting greedy with this squad. By the way, two noted experts, Chris Collingsworth also Chris Carter are picking the New York Giants. Yet, this game is still a tossup. The Giants have been a lackluster bunch all season playing down to the level of their opponents. Highly touted, Eli Manning, struggles - in part - can be traced to ruinous drop passes by some of his receivers; other boneheaded Giants, meanwhile, have committed costly penalties. In other words, the Giants are far from being a lock...but take them and the points. In Pittsburgh, I expect the Steelers to eke out a victory over the Jaguars. This game will be a hard hitting affair, but Heinz Field is a weird place to play due to chronic poor field conditions also unpredictable winds. The Steelers will need all the magic in world to overcome a big physical Jaguar football team. I like the Redskins to continue their masterful run in Seattle, so take the Skins and the points. Finally, take the Chargers to cover against the Titans.

Patriots, Best Team Ever? Hold That Champagne

According to veteran NFL football analyst, Chris Collingsworth, the 2007 New England Patriots are the best team ever. Collingsworth should know because he's been around long enough to compare the Pats to the other contenders laying claim to the title: Namely, the 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers, 1985 Chicago Bears, also the 1984 San Francisco 49ers. Considering rule changes, free agency, also salary levels, its very difficult to compare teams from different eras, but statistically, rough estimates can be made regarding the Patriots and their contemporaries . First of all, numbers don't lie; despite a team's apparent domination, one must consider the competition those totals were compiled against. Let's briefly look at the talented 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers. That club ended the season 14-2. In the playoffs, they beat the Denver Broncos 33-10, the Houston Oilers/Titans 34-5, but they struggled winning the Super Bowl against Dallas 35-31. In fact, the Cowboys could have won the game; but tight end, Jackie Smith, dropped a go ahead pass in the end zone. During the regular season, the Steelers only scored 356 points, however back in the day, defenses were allowed to employ the bump and run and other cumbersome tactics which have been banned in today's NFL. The sluggish Steelers offense, meanwhile, was not nearly as good as the wide open aerial game employed by the Patriots. Considering defense and special teams, however, the Steelers were clearly superior to New England. Pittsburgh, moreover, placed nine players from those clubs into the Hall of Fame, more importantly they accounted for four Super Bowl titles. Despite having superior personnel, however, the Patriots superb coaching staff would probably allow them to prevail in a mythical match up with Pittsburgh. The 1984 San Francisco 49ers were 15-1 and rolled through the playoffs by beating their oft nemeses New York Giants 21-10, the Chicago Bears, 23-0, and the Miami Dolphins 38-16. On competition alone, you can argue the 49ers beat one of the consensus best teams of all time, the Bears, and one of pro football's greatest quarterbacks, Dan Marino. The 49ers, moreover, revolutionized the game by incorporating Coach, Bill Walsh's, west coast offense. Instead of handing the ball off to his running backs, Walsh instructed quarterback, Joe Montana, to throw the ball in the flats to running backs, Roger Craig, Wendel Tyler, also Bill Ring. These five and six yard incremental gains allowed the Niners to work the ball down the field on long time consuming drives resulting in a then record 435 points. San Francisco's defense, furthermore, was stingy surrendering a meager 227 points. Surprisingly, this was considered to be Bill Walsh's best team, but it lacked Hall of Fame play maker, Jerry Rice. The running game was spiked by Wendel Tyler who gained 1,262 yards rushing. Even with a great quarterback like Tom Brady and receivers, Randy Moss along with Wes Welker, the Pats would not be expected to beat the 1984 San Francisco 49ers. The last great team the Pats would face are the 1985 Chicago Bears. They were 15-1 defeating the Giants 21-0, the Rams 24-0 en route to a 46-10 trouncing of the Patriots in the Super Bowl. The Bears scored 456 during the season while surrendering 198. The running game was led by bruising, Walter Payton, nicknamed, Sweetness, for his deft moves. What made the Bears special was their defense led by Hall of Fame middle linebacker, Mike Singletary. This bunch also had Hall of Fame players, Richard Dent also Dan Hampton. They blitzed their corners and linebackers frequently in a scheme invented by defensive coach, Buddy Ryan. Anyone who saw those Bears would say the Patriots would be in a terrific mismatch against the Monster of the Midway. In compiling 16 wins the Pats struggled against lesser opponents like the Ravens, Eagles, and the New York Giants. The Patriots deserve their place in the pantheon of great NFL teams, but Collingsworth misspeaks when he labels them the greatest team ever. At best, they are the third best team behind the 1984 49ERS and the 1985 Bears.

Sean Taylor in Black and White

Unfortunately, It came as no surprise when the photos of four African American males were unveiled as the perpetrators of the abhorrent murder of Redskins' safety, Sean Taylor. For more than thirty years, an ugly persistent trend of murder and mayhem has plagued America's inner cities. This voracious predation by ruthless young black males is taking a beleaguering toll on the survivors of these victims. The latest unsuspecting target was Taylor. He was slain when four youths entered his home intending to rob him; but Sean surprised them and shots were fired striking Taylor in the delicate femoral artery. Shortly thereafter, he bled to death. Young black males comprise less than six percent of the population; however they make up forty percent of those in lockup. Consequently, a culture of incessant killing pervades the mean streets of many major urban areas where drugs, prostitution, also murder run rampant. But what causes such blatant disrespect for the value of black human life? According to the Department of Justice, African Americans are most likely to be killed by someone of their own race. Whites, on the other hand, are more likely to commit rape along with other sexual crimes. The disparity results from blacks' historic role as mules for the drug trade. It's no secrete: blacks sell the drugs to whites; yet the justice system targets the sellers, not the users. It isn't fair, but two wrongs don't make it right. Nonetheless during the predawn hours on Monday, it all came full circle for Sean Taylor as the last globule of blood drained from his body. Meanwhile, one of the assailants, 17-year old Eric Rivera, went on his myspace page, and posed in a bed engulfed by crisp hundred dollar bills. Dade County police believe Rivera was the shooter. His attorney said that it hadn't yet dawn on Rivera what he had done, nor the consequences of another youth whose salad days are wasted. Fortunately despite the carnage, dedicated mentors are redirecting some black youth into educational programs which are finally steering some of these young men into college, rather than prison; it will be generations, nevertheless, before black males realize Barak Obama is a true role model, not Fifty Cents.

Today in the National Football League, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to win in New Orleans to gain street cred in the NFC; otherwise, the Bucs could find themselves facing a must win situation next Sunday in Houston against the Texans. Tampa has a great secondary capable of matching up with New Orleans' receivers, but the Bucs must pressure New Orleans quarterback, Drew Bledsoe, into mistakes. Tampa Bay has not consistently rushed the passer all year, therefore New Orleans should cover the three points; but if your gut instincts say the Buccaneers will win today, you may be right. Either way you look at it, today's game is a toss up. Very few teams are capable of taking down the Saints in the Super Dome, however if Tampa wins, they could become a team destine for a deep playoff run. In other games, Indy should prevail against Jacksonville, and the Bears should defeat the injury riddled New York Giants.

On Sunday, the National Football League will pay tribute to Sean Taylor's memory by emblazoning his number, 21, on every player's helmet.

Redskins, not Custer make last stand

Normally after ten weeks, at least one or two NFL teams emerge from the pack and start playing their best football. For four quarters last Sunday, it appeared the Washington Redskins might be one of those teams. Their superlative effort against the Dallas Cowboys fell short by less than a touchdown. Yet, just having a chance of beating the Cowboys in Texas Stadium speaks volumes about the gamesmanship of coach, Joe Gibbs; however, the Cowboys repeatedly took advantage of a hole in the Redskins secondary created by an injury to hard hitting safety, Sean Taylor. He missed the game due to a slight knee wound. This Sunday, Taylor is probable so there may be no such breach in the Skins defense, and that means problems for Washington's new opponent: Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers rolled past the Atlanta Falcons 31-7. Unlike the Redskins, the Bucs offense struggled until the defense turned an Atlanta fumble into a touchdown. After that, Tampa Bay's defense swarmed all over the hapless Falcons. This game is intriguing because it could be the Redskins last chance to stay in the wild card race. For the Buccaneers- a loss coupled with a win by New Orleans over Carolina- sets up a winner take all South division showdown next Sunday between Tampa and the Saints. The Bucs, nevertheless, are just a 3 1/2 point favorite against the Skins meaning this game is a toss up. Tampa Bay could be flying under the radar; consider, the running duo of B.J. Askew also Ernest Graham has been a pleasant surprise, but it underscores how poorly Gruden is evaluating his personnel. For example, how could Graham have languished on the bench this long in favor of Mike Alstott also Cadillac Williams. Graham, meanwhile, holds onto the ball like a loaf of bread, consequently it may be only a matter of time before he fumbles and returns to Gruden's doghouse. In this match up, I will go out on a limb by predicting a Buccaneers victory 24-21. If Tampa wins, they could become the surprise team in the NFC capable of making a deep run in the playoffs. In other games, the Patriots should cover the 24 point spread against Philadelphia. The Saints and Carolina are a toss up, but I look for the Saints to win. Finally, take the Packers and the points in Dallas.

What's the matter with Kansas?

Can anyone take this college football season seriously? The rash of upsets combined with the interchanging of numbers one, two, also three have turned college football into a joke. So whose really number #1: LSU? They lost to Kentucky while needing a miracle to beat Florida. What's the matter with Kansas? For one, they built their impressive record against teams with a combined record of 5-29. As for Oklahoma, not even Julie Andrews can take them seriously considering the whipping Texas Tech gave the Sooners. More than likely, Oklahoma may rebound and beat Kansas or Missouri in the Big Eight championship. LSU, furthermore, could lose to a surging Georgia or Tennessee in the Southeastern Championship final. That could leave us watching West Virginia against Ohio State in the pseudo National Championship game. Having computers also sportswriters pick the two best teams to play for a title is turning college football into a farce. A freak show violating the spirit of Title IX. A landmark decision mandating continued expansion of athletic opportunities for the underrepresented gender. The NCAA offers a playoff system for all of its sports except football. Unless college football implements a playoff, no one will take the national championship game anymore seriously than the Meineke Car quest Bowl, or whatever its called.
This week in the NFL, no one wants to lay claim to the to the NFC South. Tampa Bay can't win on the road; the Saints' defense is full of holes; the Falcons are plain bad; and Carolina can no longer depend on an aging Steve Smith; however in Green Bay take the Panthers and the points. I like Atlanta to continue its surge against Tampa. The San Diego Chargers will win in Jacksonville.

For now, take the Colts

This week in the NFL, the Indianapolis Colts may win the battle, but the Patriots will ultimately win the war. Its only the regular season, and the defending champions should defend their home turf, but in the playoffs, a healthy New England should prevail easily. With a front line of nose guard, Butch Wilfolk, also Richard Seymour, the Pats are clearly the best team in the National Football League. Notice, I didn't even mention, the great free safety, Rodney Harrison. The Colts, furthermore, have more to play for. The last thing Indy wants is traveling to New England for a playoff match up in the dead of winter. This thought alone will incentivize them to play their butts off. Take the Colts in this classic match up of unbeaten teams. As for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, what a difference a week makes. This team was 3-1 two weeks ago and now they're spiraling out of contention. Will anything change this week? the Jaguars only threw the ball seven times and still won; something unheard of in the pass happy NFL. Granted, Arizona has better receivers than Jacksonville, so expect the Cardinals to take advantage of Tampa's struggling defense. Take the Cardinals and the points. In Tennessee, the Carolina Panthers should prevail over the Titans, meanwhile the Saints will cover the spread while handily defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars. New Orleans is well on its way to coming back and winning this division.

Bucs could be singing blues in Motown

There's an old saying that timing is everything. Unfortunately for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they have to travel to Motown for a game against the well rested Detroit Lions. The giant killer this week could be Lions head coach, Rod Martenelli; As the former defensive coordinator in Tampa, Martinelli has a huge advantage of knowing the Bucs defensive personnel and how to attack it. Furthermore with wide receivers, Braylon Edwards also Calvin Johnson, Lions' quarterback, John Kitna, has the weapons to frustrate Tampa's outstanding defense. On offense, the Buccaneers sole play maker is wide out, Joey Galloway, meanwhile the running game is plodding along with injuries to Cadillac Williams also Michael Pittman. Although quarterback, Jeff Garcia, is effective, he remains hampered by an inconsistent line and ultra conservative play calling. What Tampa lacks in offensive efficiency, they make up in special teams. Their opponents are often facing poor field position because of the superb punting of Jeff Bidwell, meanwhile field goal kicker, Matt Bryant, remains deadly accurate from long range. But knowing Lions' offensive coordinator, Mike Martz, he's studied the game film from the Tampa Bay massacre in Indianapolis. For anyone who says, "Well that's Payton Manning for you." I assure you Mr. Manning will be running for his life in Jacksonville Monday night. The Buccaneers have no pass rush also Ronde Barber is too small to cover Calvin Johnson. The Lions should cover the 2 point spread winning 28-21.
On Monday night, I look for the Colts to make a stand and defeat Jacksonville. As for college football, fortunately the obsession with South Florida is over. The team was very overrated and Rutgers proved the Bulls could hardly beat top ten teams like Oregon, LSU, or South Carolina; let alone monsters such as USC or Ohio State. Sure the Buckeyes looked horrible last year against Florida, but OSU lost all of its edge by being idle for 31 days. Everyone was believing in South Florida because the roster is built on Florida recruits. Well, those boys from the sunshine state got their asses kick by a bunch a guys from a basketball area. Finally, I expect Florida to upset Kentucky.

LSU showdown with South Carolina

This week's hottest games are South Carolina at LSU, Dallas Cowboys at Chicago Bears, St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay, and the desperate Falcons hosting the Carolina Panthers. Lets look at the LSU match up against the Gamecocks. Since the beginning of the year, South Carolina's feisty coach, Steve Spurrier, has been saying his team is underrated. Spurrier has been insistent on claims Carolina is being underestimated in the race to win the Southeastern's Conference East Division. Spurrier, moreover, said the Gamecocks would no longer be happy just contending, they expect to win the alliance. Considering last year's nail biter against Florida, he could be right. The old ball coach would have won that contest had it not been for a blocked field goal. South Carolina, furthermore, outplayed the Gators for four quarters. Fortunately, Spurrier returns with most of his team intact from last year. The Gamecocks have a stifling defense and a competent run and gun offense. LSU , meanwhile, has looked like one of the top five teams in college football with big wins over Virginia Tech also hapless Mississippi State. The Tigers, nevertheless, are coached by big mouth, Les Miles, whose teams have a history of being out coached in big games. I would take Carolina and the points. As for the remaining games, I expect the Cowboys to beat the Chicago Bears. The Monsters of the Midway are unsettled at quarterback, furthermore they need to continue getting field position and touchdowns from punt returner extraordinarie, Devin Hester. If Dallas corrals him, they should win.
Meanwhile, the desperate St. Louis Rams visit Tampa Bay. Last week against New Orleans, the Buccaneers' defense flashed a lot of the speed that led them to a Super Bowl championship.
The Saints weren't ready for it and neither will the Rams. Tampa Bay will cover. In Atlanta, the Falcons have new quarterback, Byron Leftwicth, and the Panthers are smarting from a loss to the resurgent Houston Texans. Carolina will barely escape with a win, but they'll cover.
Alright bettors those are your picks for the week....

Michael Vick in Black and White

Many people wonder why African Americans frequently play the race card when it comes to justice in America. Take Falcon quarterback, Michael Vick, until his confession more blacks believed he was innocent. Why? Many blacks are confronted by the stark racial injustice in the judicial system. For example, blacks are convicted and imprisoned at a rate of 4-1 for many of the same crimes committed by whites males. African American males, furthermore, are only six percent of the population; nevertheless, they comprise forty percent of the prison population. No wonder blacks cry foul whenever a prominent African American is incarcerated. They are not just carping about Vick, but the larger picture of racial injustice in America. The demonizing of Vick on the talk radio and television circuit stands in stark contrast to Columbine. Many whites, particularly females, blamed the parents, bullies, and the school for the tragedy...no one dare to place the blame at the feet of cold blooded killers Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris. The same attitude prevailed when the Menendez brothers confessed to slaying their parents. Once again, it was the boy's father, not Lyle Menendez, who was excoriated for their son's heinous behavior. Finally, blacks couldn't ignore the obvious implication when a white male was arrested 23 times before gunning down an unsuspecting Tampa sheriff. He was conducting a drunk driving sting. The notion in this society of white males being the victims while blacks are the perpetrators have tipped the scales of justice into trash can full of doubt and bewilderment. Quarterback, Michael Vick, must be held accountable for breaking the law, but African Americans have every right to complain about a justice system that only wants to judge them by the color of their skin.

Are Rams Ready To Explode?

The Rams opening season game against the Carolina Panthers could spur either team to a playoff berth. For example, the Rams will follow that meeting with showdowns against Arizona, also Tampa Bay. Conceivably, St. Louis could be 3-0 heading into a clash against the Dallas Cowboys. The Rams, furthermore, can depend on a healthy right tackle Orlando Pace while the left side will be manned by Alex Barron. With quarterback, Marc Bulger, wide receivers, Issac Bruce, also, Drew Bennett, the Rams will score plenty of points. More importantly, the recent acquisition of punt returner, Dante Hall, could potentially give the Rams consistent field position. During their last six games, the Rams scored 165 points, and that's certainly going to give defensive coordinators nightmares. St. Louis' defense, however, feel asleep last year by ranking 31st against the run and 22nd against the pass...not good news for a team facing Steve Smith and the Carolina Panthers on opening day. In the mediocre NFC, this match up rates as the game of the week, but bettors can expect the Panthers to prevail on the road.

Rating the Rams
Offensive Line (A)
Special Teams (B+)
Defense (C)
Projected Finish 10-6

Gruden: happy trails

Who would have anticipated four years ago coach, Tony Dungy, celebrating a Super Bowl win also a best selling novel while his replacement in Tampa begrudgingly awaits a pink slip. When John Gruden hoisted the Vince Lombardi trophy in 2003, Dungy must have been thinking about the scripture that says, "Those who are first now will be last then, and those who are last now will be first then." For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the words are prophetic. Last year, they finish at the bottom of the NFC South, and things aren't looking up this season. On defense, middle linebacker, Derrick Brooks, is at the tail end of a stellar career, unfortunately he's playing like it. Defensive end, Simeon Rice, was unceremoniously released while other aging veterans simmered over their fate. Rice, meanwhile, was let go despite the Bucs registering a paltry 25 sacks. Consider, Carolina's, Julius Peppers, had 13. A new defensive line consisting of Kevin Carter, Patrick Chukuwaruh, and first round draft pick, Gaines Adams hardly inspires fear. Adams, furthermore, has been manhandled in practice by the Bucs' honeycomb offensive line. In the secondary, cornerback, Brian Kelly, returns from an injury also teammate Ronde Barber is savvy but he's also 33-years old and contemplating retirement. Furthermore, defensive coordinator, Monte Kiffen, is believed to be fed up with Gruden blaming the defense for the team's decline. On offense, Gruden signed quarterback, Jeff Garcia, to figure out Gruden's complicated playbook. Unfortunately, Garcia will face the same fate former signal callers Chris Simms also Brad Johnson confronted: no pass protection. The line consist of second year tackle, Jeremy Trueblood, Davin Joseph, John Wade, rookie, Aaron Sears, and Luke Petitgrew. Trueblood lacks quick feet, consequently defenders run around him. Joseph is solid, but Wade is creaky with bad knees; Sears is a rookie who battled weight problems at Tennessee and many feel he's better suited at tackle. What does that tell you? As for Petitgrew, he's battling chronic back problems, so the Bucs probably would have been better off signing someone off the street. If Garcia survives the season behind this bunch, he should say five Hail Marys and take communion. At running back, Cadillac Williams, is in a west coast offense, yet he has trouble catching the ball. Another first round pick flanker, Michael Clayton, is backing up a sixth round choice, Maurice Stovall. Gruden's poor draft choices and mediocre free agent signings have the Buccaneers with little hope for success this season, or the future. Another 4-11 year, and He'll probably be cut loose. By then, Tony Dungy may need an offensive coordinator.

Bucs projected record
6-10

Chow Time in Carolina

The Panthers will pin their hopes this season on three critical changes. First of the all, Carolina's new offensive coordinator is Jeff Davidson. He's revitalizing the Panther's stagnant running game with a zone blocking scheme for running back, DeAngelo Williams. Zone blocks require an offensive lineman to block an area rather than a player. The technique was very successful for Davidson in Denver where the Broncos guzzled up huge chunks of yardage. Williams was familiar with the system at the University of Memphis. Besides a new coach, the Panthers want to re-sign dominant defensive end, Julius Peppers, but he wants to become the highest paid defender in the league. It's believed, Peppers wants to exceed the Colts, Dwight Freeny, with a contract neighboring, 72-million over six years. Lastly, the Panthers need another extraordinary season from receiver, Steve Smith. This year, he will have some help from gangly flanker, Dwanye Jarrett, another good Panther draft choice from USC. A healthy Steve Smith makes everybody's job easier, consequently quarterback, Jake Delhome, should rebound from last year's struggles; however, Smith must return to his old form, otherwise the Panthers will labor to improve on last year's 8-8 season. Another concern is the strong safety position. Hard hitting and intelligent, Mike Minter, says he will retire this season, meanwhile Carolina signed former Bear strong saftey, Chris Harris. The defense will need the taciturn, Kris Jenkins, to play like a Tasmanian devil, but the Panthers think his excessive weight, 375 lbs, will doom him to another sub par performance. Jenkins was left off the team's bonding trip: an outing where the players took turns racing NASCAR stock cars. Jenkins was also angry over persistent trade rumors involving him. The Panthers will need to win their opening game in St. Louis to remain in Pro Football Weekly's power rankings: Carolina is seeded 13Th.
With the downfall of Atlanta, the Panthers should secure the wild card by finishing the year 11-5. That would keep coach, John Fox, employed for another season.

Next: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Are Falcons Better Without Vick?

Quarterback, Michael Vick, has a lot of problems and so do the Atlanta Falcons. Vick, nevertheless, can legally beat this case. Without him though, the Falcons may not fare so well. Of all the damming indictments of hanging, electrocuting, and body slamming Pit Bulls, none of charges specifically mention Vick. Most of the allegations target co-defendants, Quanis Phillips, Tony Taylor, also Purnell Peace. Vick is charged with ordering the dogs to be killed, but how do you prove it? The only witnesses are convicted criminals. For example if you were a juror, who would you believe? Even for the Feds, there is no guarantee 12 men and women will agree to convict Vick based on eye witless testimony. Following the Duke Lacrosse case, meanwhile, no one will be in a hurry to send anyone accused of a crime to the gallows without some hard evidence. Vicks' footprints, nevertheless, were all over Coach, Bobby Petrino's, game plan, but now he'll have to settle on journeyman Joey Harrington; he was released last year by the Miami Dolphins. Conversely for all of Vick's highlight reel runs, he was still sacked 47 times , moreover, he consistently failed to connect on passes to wide open receivers. Making matters worse, the Falcons have already lost multi purpose back, Warrick Dunn. On defense, tough, Patrick Kearney, - who is stellar- signed in the off season with Seattle. Dependable linebacker, Demorrio Williams, is hurt; however, he could be ready for the opener against the Minnesota Vikings. Fortunately, Atlanta will regain the services of hardened nose tackle, Grady Jackson, who along with Ronald Coleman will make the Falcons difficult to run on. The linebacking corp remains the team's strong point. Yet with back up quarterback, Matt Shuab, in Houston, the Falcons just don't have the pieces to win this season. I project Atlanta will regress from last year's 7-9 season to 4-12.

Next Week
Carolina Panthers

Seen Michael Vick Lately?

According to talk radio, Vick has been appearing at dog fighting matches all around the country. The Falcons, nevertheless, better be prepared when PETA, and other animal rights activist begin voicing their displeasure at the Atlanta superstar. Admittedly, Vick has his share of problems. For example, he pointed the middle finger at rowdy Falcon fans, he was apprehended by airport security who discovered a water bottle with a hidden compartment reeking of marijuana, a member of his entourage was accused of stealing a Rolex at Atlanta International Airport, and a woman settled a lawsuit after blaming Vick for giving her herpes. Now its dogfighting a brutal diversion illegal in 50 states. According to several eyewitnesses, Vick assisted in electrocuting, hanging and beating dogs to death who were badly injured in the ring. Of course, an eyewitnesses can also be a jailhouse informant willing to offer incriminating testimony in exchange for a lighter sentence.Unfortunately, death row is full of innocent people awaiting execution based on bogus eyewitness accounts. Vick, himself, is blaming his cousin for all the transgressions. Conversely, defenders of Vick are pointing to - of all things- ultimate fighting as an excuse for allowing all this to go away. In another weird dichotomy, the Rev. Al Sharpton has joined with PETA in condemning Vick. HUH? For the National Football League, none of this is good news. Consider, the NFL's lagging attendance in Europe forced the alliance to acknowledge it can't grow the sport beyond its borders. NBA commissioner, David Stern, meanwhile, giggles as the NBA outsells the NFL in merchandise while bragging the NBA also gets way more website hits. Major League Baseball is preparing for a true international World Series, but the National Football League is struggling with attendance issues in Charlotte, and Jacksonville. Either team could be relocating to Los Angeles. It used to be character issues were the sole province of the NBA, but the legal issues of Michael Vick, Pac Man Jones, and Tank Johnson, have smeared a corporation riding the wave of endorsement success. For now, the National Football League would be wise to do an extensive background check on all the players selected in the first two rounds. The league should also make it very clear that abberant behavior can result in expulsion from the League. Vick, nonetheless, will probably beat these charges; despite his lapses, he's not a career criminal, more importantly his lack of an accurate arm could someday force him into a backup role. A place where Vick could no longer blindside the National Football League.

Handicapping The New Orleans Saints

Are you ready for some football? Well in two weeks several teams will open camp, meanwhile I'll be breaking down the season. Despite opening against the Colts in Indy, I'm picking the New Orleans Saints to finally make it to the Super Bowl, however that's contingent on quarterback, Drew Brees, and running back, Reggie Bush, staying healthy. The Saints also have to find an adequate replacement for receiver, Joe Horn. He moved over to Atlanta. The Saints will have to pray their spotty defense holds together, but unlike the past, the South division isn't as competitive; therefore, New Orleans should get a lot wins against division foes. Furthermore, Coach, Sean Payton, is an extraordinary play caller, and with Bush, the Saints should excel on special teams. Nevertheless, first round pick, Robert Meachem from Tennessee, will have to live up to expectations for people to forget about reliable, Joe Horn. The other wide out, Marcus Colston, must continue to get better, but that will not be easy considering the upgrades other divisional foes made this season. As the year progresses, the Saints seem to be emerging as the team to beat in the National Football Conference, moreover New Orleans appears to be the only NFC team capable of competing against vastly superior AFC powers: New England, Indianapolis, Baltimore, and San Diego.

Grading the Saints
Offensive Line (B+)
Offense: (A) *
Special Teams (A+)
Defense (C)
*Led NFL

Projected Finish 12-4


Next Week, I will preview the Atlanta Falcons.

Is Kobe Screwed?

As for accusations of rape, I don't know if Kobe sexually assaulted the woman in Colorado, but I do know he's getting screwed by the Los Angeles Lakers. Talk about being pissed off, Bryant lost it when the Los Angeles Times quoted a Laker insider: evidently, this source blamed Bryant for the Lakers reluctance to extend Oneal's contract. On his website, Kobe said he had absolutely nothing to do with owner, Jerry Buss', decision to resign Oneal. According to Bryant, Buss said Shaq was neither fit, healthy, nor willing to hustle 82 games. More importantly, Kobe said he only agreed to re-up with the Lakers because Buss told him Los Angeles wasn't going to rebuild; instead, they were going to acquire top free agents and contend for the title. Current players, Kawnme Brown, Lamar Odom, and Luke Walton are far from being premiere NBA players. Bryant, furthermore, could not understand why the Lakers passed on Jason Kidd, Baron Davis, and Carlos Boozer...players available during the All Star break. Now Kobe is asking to be traded; after reading the Times, Bryant's decided to shout, "Screw You!" In an interview today on ESPN's, Dan Patrick's show, Bryant was asked if he would consider playing anywhere including an out-post like Atlanta? Bryant replied, "Yes." Some Laker fans think Bryant's outrage is timed to force Buss to hire former General Manager, Jerry West. Such a move would certainly anger current GM, Mitch Kupchak...a close friend of West. Only in Tinseltown can this soap opera continue such an impressive run.

Lightning looking for Jesus

The Tampa Bay Lightning is looking for a miracle goal keeper. In fact, they're looking for Jesus. According to coach, John Tortarella, his team needs a goalie who can stop any puck heading towards the net. Unfortunately, this coach has forgotten that playoff hockey is won by fore checking, stick checking, and cleaning out bodies in front of the net. Far too often, the Lightning defensemen can be seen backpedaling into net minder, Johan Holmquist, sometimes knocking him out of position. With the exception of forward Andre Roy, Vinny Lecavalier, Shane Obrien, and Marty St. Louis, the rest of the players rarely touch the streaking Devils with anything more than a glancing tag. Until Friday when the Devils went into their infamous trap, New Jersey was almost out
shooting Tampa 2-1. With the failure of the defensemen to clear the net, Holmquivst, is having to make saves on his back. Meanwhile, the Devils just skate in unmolested and get good shots on goal. Someone needs to tell Torterella that Jesus isn't coming back to save the Lightning.

Sorry Florida: UCLA Isn't Gator Bait

So here we are primed for college basketball's premier sporting event: the Final Four. The elite game features defending champion Florida against UCLA. Last year, these two teams met in final, but tonight they hook up in the semi finals. For the Bruins, 2006 saw them walk off the court shell shocked by Gator guard, Lee Humphrey's, proficient three point shooting and center, Joakim Noah's, tenacious shot blocking. The Bruins were already hanging their 12Th NCAA championship banner when the roof caved in. For some reason, UCLA uncharacteristically decided to donate a National Championship banner to Florida. Meanwhile, they lost by 25-points. Because of the Bruins' great history also tradition, they never took the Florida Gators for anything more than a football school. This time, the UCLANS are ready to re-establish their great folklore by proving that the most competitive amateur basketball is played on the West Coast. Not only will UCLA beat Florida, the Bruins will blow them out with a winning margin of more than 12-points. This game will not even be close. Goodbye Florida, the Bruins bid you a fond farewell. We hope you stick with football...something you're good at.