Talk At The Urinal

Talk at the Urinal: July 18, 2011

2011-07-18T00:54:00.001-07:00

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USA Women lose World Cup final, NFL Lockout is almost over! NBA to release schedule, Darren Clarke wins British Open -- Who?!, why the Bengals are KILLING Eric, and more!

Talk at the Urinal: July 9, 2011

2011-07-09T17:34:00.001-07:00

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Jeter hits 3000, Ohio State loses wins, Dodgers All-Stars, NFL/NBA Lockouts, Yao Ming, Texas Ranger dies, Kobe Bryant versus LeBron James in Turkey?

Talk at the Urinal: May 22, 2011

2011-05-22T18:57:00.001-07:00

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Recap

Talk at the Urinal: Jan 19, 2011

2011-01-20T11:13:00.001-08:00

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Jets, Patriots, Packers, Falcons, Bears, Seahawks, Steelers, Ravens, Blake Griffin, Pau Gasol, Kobe Bryant, Heat, LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, Venus Williams, Zenyatta, Brett Favre, Josh McDaniels, Sam Bradford, Mel Kiper, Darelle Revis.

Talk at the Urinal: Jan 19, 2011

2011-01-19T17:49:00.001-08:00

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Talk at the Urinal 2011 NFL Playoff Preview Podcast

2011-01-06T11:04:00.001-08:00

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Discussing which teams will win during this Wild Card weekend!

Talk at the Urinal December 2010 Podcast

2010-12-23T03:12:00.001-08:00

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Talk at the Urinal December 2010 Podcast

2010-12-22T23:15:00.001-08:00

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Talk at the Urinal December 2010 Podcast

2010-12-22T22:48:00.001-08:00

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Talk at the Urinal December 2010 Podcast

NFL PICKS WEEK 9!!

2010-11-07T10:22:00.001-08:00

Last Week:

Jets @ Lions

J: Jets

Cowboys @ Packers

J: Packers

Cards @ Vikings

J: Vikings

Bucs @ Falcons

J: Falcons

Bears @ Bills

J: Bears

Pats @ Browns

J: Pats

Saints @ Panthers

J: Saints

Dolphins @ Ravens

J: Ravens

Chargers @ Texans

J: Texans

Giants @ Seahawks

J: Giants

Chiefs @ Raiders

J: Chiefs

Colts @ Eagles

J: Colts

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

Steelers @ Bengals

J: Steelers

College Football Picks Week 10!

2010-11-06T01:12:00.000-07:00

Last Week:
J: 11-5
E:

#1 Oregon vs. Washington
J:
E:

#2 Auburn vs. Chattanooga

J: Auburn

#3 TCU @ #5 Utah

J: Utah

#4 Boise St vs. Hawaii

J: Boise St

#6 Alabama @ #10 LSU

J: Bama

#7 Nebraska @ Iowa St

J: Nebraska

#8 Oklahoma @ Texas A&M

J: Oklahoma

#9 Wisconsin @ Purdue

J: Wisconsin

#12 Mizzou @ Texas Tech

J: Mizzou

#13 Stanford vs. #15 Arizona

J: Arizona

#14 Mich St vs. Minnesota

J: Mich St

#16 Iowa @ Indiana

J: Iowa

#17 Oklahoma St vs. #21 Baylor

J: Baylor

#18 Arkansas @ #19 South Carolina

J: South Carolina

#22 V-Tech vs. Georgia Tech

J: V-Tech

#23 Nevada @ Idaho

J: Nevada

#24 FSU vs. UNC

J: FSU

#25 NC St @ Clemson

J: NC St

NFL PICKS WEEK 8!

2010-10-31T12:00:00.000-07:00

Last Week:
J: 8-6
E: 9-5

Dolphins @ Bengals
J: Dolphins
E: Bengals

Jags @ Cowboys
J: Jags
E: Cowboys

Redskins @ Lions
J: Skins
E: Lions

Bills @ Chiefs
J: Chiefs
E: Chiefs

Panthers @ Rams
J: Rams
E: Rams

Packers @ Jets
J: Jets
E: Jets

Broncos @ 49ers (In London)
J: Broncos
E: Broncos

Titans @ Chargers
J: Titans
E: Chargers

Seahawks @ Raiders
J: Raiders
E: Raiders

Vikings @ Patriots
J: Patriots
E: Pats

Bucs @ Cards
J: Bucs
E: Cards

Steelers @ Saints
J: Steelers
E: Steelers

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Texans @ Colts
J: Colts
E: Texans

College Football Picks Week 9!

2010-10-30T00:51:00.001-07:00

Last Week:

J: 15-4

E: 13-6

J: Auburn over Ole Miss

J: USC over Oregon

J: Boise over Louisiana Tech

J: TCU over UNLV

J: Iowa over Michigan State

J: Mizzou over Nebraska

J: Utah over Air Force

J: Oklahoma over Colorado

J:Ohio State over Minnesota

J: Washington over Stanford

J: Arizona over UCLA

J: Florida St over NC State

J: Arkansas over Vandy

J: Miss St over Kentucky

J: Nevada over Utah St

J: Texas over Baylor

College Football Picks Week 9!

2010-10-30T00:51:00.000-07:00

Last Week:

J: 15-4

E: 13-6

J: Auburn over Ole Miss

J: USC over Oregon

J: Boise over Louisiana Tech

J: TCU over UNLV

J: Iowa over Michigan State

J: Mizzou over Nebraska

J: Utah over Air Force

J: Oklahoma over Colorado

J:Ohio State over Minnesota

J: Washington over Stanford

J: Arizona over UCLA

J: Florida St over NC State

J: Arkansas over Vandy

J: Miss St over Kentucky

J: Nevada over Utah St

J: Texas over Baylor

NBA PREVIEW!!!

2010-10-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

Western Conference
1.Lakers
2. Thunder
3. Dallas
4. Jazz
5. Nuggets
6 Spurs
7. Clippers
8. Grizzlies

Eastern Conference
1.Magic
2.Heat
3.Celtics
4. Bulls
5. Bucks
6. Hawks
7. Bobcats
8. Knicks

MVP Candidates
Kobe
Lebron
Howard
Durant

Most improved player
Terrance Williams

Sixth man
Jamal Crawford

Surprise teams
Pacers, Grizzlies,Clippers,Nets, Knicks,and Warriors

Downfall teams
Suns,76ers,Cavs,and Pistons.

NBA FINALS PREDICTIONS

LAKERS OVER HEAT 6

NFL PICKS WEEK 7!!

2010-10-24T10:28:00.000-07:00

Last week Results
Blatz- 7-7
Gonzo- 9-5

Bengals at Falcons
E- Bengals
G- Falcons

Redskins at Bears
E- Bears
G- Redskins

Eagles at Titans
E- Titans
G- Eagles

Jags at Chiefs
E- Chiefs
G- Chiefs

Steelers at Dolphins
E- Steelers
G- Steelers

Browns at Saints
E- Saints
G- Saints

Rams at Bucs
E- Bucs
G- Bucs

49ers at Panthers
E-Panthers
G- 49ers

Bills at Ravens
E- Ravens
G- Ravens

Cards at Seahawks
E- Seahawks
G- Seahawks

Pats at Chargers
E- Pats
G- Pats

Raiders at Broncos
E- Broncos
G- Broncos

Vikings at Packers
E- Vikings
G- Vikings

Giants at Cowboys
E- Cowboys
G- Cowboys

College Football Picks Week 8!

2010-10-23T00:44:00.000-07:00

The grind continues!

Last Week:

J: 8-8

E: 9-7

#1 Oklahoma @ #11 Mizzou

J: Missouri

E: Oklahoma

#2 Oregon vs. UCLA

J: Oregon

E:Oregon

#4 Auburn vs. #6 LSU

J: Auburn

E:Auburn

#5 TCU vs. Air Force

J: TCU

E:TCU

#7 Michigan State @ Northwestern

J: Mich State

E:Mich ST

#8 Alabama @ Tennessee

J: Bama

E:BAMA

#9 Utah vs. Colorado St.

J: Utah

E:UTAH

#10 Ohio State vs. Purdue

J: Ohio State

E:OHIO STATE

#12 Stanford vs. Washington St

J: Stanford

E:Stanford

#13 Wisconsin @ #15 Iowa

J: Iowa

E:Iowa

#14 Ok State vs. #16 Nebraska

J: Nebraska

E:Nebraska

#18 Arizona vs. Washington

J: Arizona

E: Washington

#19 Texas vs. Iowa St.

J: Texas

E:Texas

#20 WVU vs. Syracuse

J: WVU

E:WVU

#21 South Carolina @ Vandy

J: South Carolina

E:South Carolina

#22 Kansas St. @ Baylor

J: Kansas St.

E: K-State

#23 Arkansas vs. Mississippi

J: Arkansas

E: Arkansas

#24 Miss. St vs. UAB

J: Miss. St

E: Miss ST

#25 Virginia Tech vs. Duke

J: V-Tech

E: V-Tech

Talk at the Urinal October 2010 Podcast

2010-10-20T14:53:00.001-07:00

Check out our latest podcast as we cover the upcoming NBA season, NFL, MLB Playoffs and College Football!

NFL Week 6 Picks!

2010-10-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

Last Week:
J: 7-7
E: 7-7

Jets @ Broncos

J: Jets

E: Broncos

Dolphins @ Packers

J: Packers

E:Dolphins

Raiders @ 49ers

J: 49ers

E:49ers

Cowboys @ Vikings

J: Vikings

E:Cowboys

Seahawks @ Bears

J: Bears

E:Bears

Chargers @ Rams

J: Chargers

E: Chargers

Ravens @ Patriots

J: Ravens

E:Pats

Lions @ Giants

J: Giants

E:Giants

Falcons @ Eagles

J: Eagles

E: Falcons

Browns @ Steelers

J: Steelerss

E:Steelers

Saints @ Bucs

J: Saints

E:Saints

Chiefs @ Texans

J: Chiefs

E:Chiefs

Colts @ Redskins

J: Colts

E:Skins

MONDAY NIGHT!

Titans @ Jags

J: Titans

E:Titans

College Football Picks Week 7!

2010-10-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Last Week:
J: 15-4
E: 14-5

#1 Ohio State @ #18 Wisconsin

J: Wisconsin

E: Ohio State

#3 Boise State @ San Jose State

J: Boise State

E: Boise State

#5 Nebraska vs. Texas

J: Nebraska

E: Nebraska

#6 Oklahoma vs. Iowa State

J: Oklahoma

E: Oklahoma

#7 Auburn vs. #12 Arkansas

J: Arkansas

E: Arkansas

#8 Alabama vs. Ole Miss

J: Bama

E: Bama

#9 LSU vs. McNeese State

J: LSU vs. WHO?!

E: LSU

#10 South Carolina @ Kentucky

J: South Carolina

E: Kentucky

#15 Iowa @ Michigan

J: Michigan

E: Iowa

#17 Arizona @ Washington State

J: Arizona

E: Arizona

#19 Nevada @ Hawaii

J: Nevada

E: Nevada

#20 OK State @ Texas Tech

J: Texas Tech

E:Ok State

#22 Florida vs. Mississippi State

J: Florida

E:Florida

#23 Air Force vs. San Diego State

J: Air Force

E:Air Force

#24 Oregon State @ Washington

J: Washington

E: Oregon State

#25 West Virginia @ South Florida

J: WVU

E: WVU

NFL Week 5 Picks!

2010-10-10T01:47:00.000-07:00

The grind is on! Which teams will continue their push for the playoffs? Can the Cowboys contain CJ and the Titans? Will Kolb be successful against the 49ers? Can Favre defeat his old Jets team on the road while the men in green try and contain Randy Moss once again?

Last Week:

J: 8-6

E: 6-8

Falcons @ Browns

J; Falcons

E: Falcons

Buccaneers @ Bengals

J: Bengals

E: Bengals

Jaguars @ Bills

J: Jags

E: Bills

Rams @ Lions

J: Rams

E: Lions

Chiefs @ Colts

J: Colts

E: Colts

Packers @ Redskins

J: Packers

E: Redskins

Bears @ Panthers

J: Bears

E: Bears

Broncos @ Ravens

J: Ravens

E: Ravens

Giants @ Texans

J: Giants

E: Texans

Saints @ Cardinals

J: Saints

E: Saints

Titans @ Cowboys

J: Cowboys

E: Cowboys

Chargers @ Raiders

J: Chargers

E: Chargers

Sunday Night Football

Eagles @ 49ers

J: 49ers

E: 49ers

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL!

Vikings @ Jets

J: Jets

E: Jets

Please let us know your Predictions!!!

College Football Picks Week 6!

2010-10-09T02:57:00.000-07:00

Last Week:

J: 11-4

E: 11-4

Thursday Night!

#7 Nebraska @ Kansas State

J: Nebraska

E: Nebraska

Friday Night Lights!!

#22 OklahomaSt. @ LA Lafayette

J: Oklahoma

E: Oklahoma

Saturday Games!!!

#1 Alabama @ #19 South Carolina

J: Bama

E: Bama

#2 Ohio State vs. Indiana

J: Ohio State

E: Ohio State

#3 Oregon at Washington St.

J: Oregon

#4 Boise State vs. Toledo

J: Boise State

E: Boise State

#5 TCU vs. Wyoming

J: TCU

E: TCU

#8 Auburn @Kentucky

J: Auburn

E: Auburn

#9 Arizona vs. Oregon State

Blatz: Arizona

Gonzo: Arizona

#10 Utah @ Iowa State

J: Utah

E: Utah

#11 Arkansas @ Texas A&M

J: Arkansas

E: Arkansas

#12 LSU @ #14 Florida

J: LSU

E: Florida

#13 Miami vs. #23 Florida State

J: Florida State

E: Miami

#16 Stanford vs. USC

J: USC

E: Stanford

#17 Michigan State @ #18 Michigan

J: Michigan

E: Michigan

#20 Wisconsin vs. Minnesota

J: Wisconsin

E: Wisconsin

#21 Nevada vs. San Jose State

J: Nevada

E: Nevada

#24 Missouri vs. Colorado

J: Missouri

E: Missouri

#25 Air Force vs. Colorado State

J: Air Force

E: Air Force

Please let us know your predictions!

MLB PLAYOFF'S PREVIEW!!

2010-10-08T15:44:00.000-07:00

Who is ready for some MLB PLAYOFF'S?

Yes I know it's a bummer that our Dodgers and Angels didn't make it this year! So most of you guys probably don't care about this years playoff's. However, I say you guys watch because they're a lot of great story lines! Can the Braves make one last run for Bobby Cox? Can the Yankees repeat? Did you guys know that Josh Hamilton was drafted by the Rays? Yep that's right he was drafted by the Rays, but got into drugs and became a total bust! Let's see how all of the 2,000 fans at the Tropicana react to his return. The Reds are in the playoff's!? I would like to see them make a run but the only problem is that they meet the Phillies in the first round. Now lets talk about my RAYS!! They are back into the playoff's and have home field throughout!! I'm really excited about their chances to win the World Series this year! A lot of young super stars and some great pitching! My sleeper team that can make a huge run in the playoff's is the Giants! I hate them but they got some great pitching, a beast closer, and some great young hitting Anyone think Twins have a chance? I say no because they have some pitching issues and they don't have Justin Morneau. So as you can see they're some great story lines heading into the postseason! Now I shall give you my predictions!!

TAKE THESE PREDICTIONS TO THE BANK!!

NLDS- Braves vs Giants- Giants in 5!

I would take the Braves in this series if Martin Prado and Chipper Jones were healthy but since they aren't I don't see how they can score enough runs against the Giants Pitching. I think Lincecum and Cain take game 1 and 2 at home. Then I think Braves will take game 3 at home because My boy Jason Heyward will come through! However, game 4 Giants will win the series! So I like the Giants in 5.

NLDS- Reds vs Phillies- Phillies in 4.

Phillies pitching is to damn good! I will be rooting for the Reds but I just don't see it happening at all. Phillies obviously are the power house team in the NL and I would not be surprised if they sweep. I thinks Reds will take one game at home for their loyal fans but that's about it.

ALDS- Rays vs Rangers- Rays in 5!

My Rays will take game 1 with my boy David Price on the mound vs Cliff Lee! If they lose this game that's when I start worrying because Shields scares me pitching in game 2. I love Garza to win game 3 on the road but then Rays will lose game 4. Come back home with my boy David Price and they take this series in 5! I need my boy B.J. Upton to step up because he has the potential to! I know my boys Crawford and Longoria will be ready to rock!

ALDS- Yankees vs Twins- Yankees in 5.

We got the Yankees heading into the playoff's playing bad and we got the Twins coming into the playoff's playing great baseball! However, the Yankees always step up in the playoff's! Can never go against Jeter, A-rod, Rivera, Texiara, Cano, and Swisher. Sabathia will win game 1 and game 5!

NLCS-Giants vs Phillies. Phillies in 6.

Great pitching match ups but I just give the advantage to the Phillies offense in this series. They will score more runs and play better defense.

ALCS- Rays vs Yankees. Rays in 7!!

What a series this will be! We got division rivals and some great young talent and two stud lefty Aces! I need my Rays to come through for me! I think they can do it!

WORLD SERIES!!!

Rays vs Phillies. Rays in 7!!

Yes we get a rematch of the 2008 World series and the Rays will get some revenge and become the champions!!

What are your guys predictions?

NFL Week 4 Picks!

2010-10-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

NFL Week 4!

Which teams will stay undefeated? Which teams will move to 3-1? Will the Chiefs keep winning?

Last Week:

J: 11-5

E: 10-6

Jets @ Bills

J: Jets

E: Bills

Lions @ Packers

J: Packers

E: Packers

Broncos @ Titans

J: Titans

E: Titans

Seahawks @ Rams

J: Seahawks

E: Rams

Panthers @ Saints

J: Saints

E: Saints

Ravens @ Steelers

J: Ravens

E: Steelers

Texans @ Raiders

J: Texans

E: Raiders

Colts @ Jags

J: Colts

E: Colts

Redskins @ Eagles

J: Eagles

E: Eagles

Cardinals @ Chargers

J: Chargers

E: Chargers

Bears @ Giants

J: Bears

E: Giants

49ers @ Falcons

J: Falcons

E: Falcons

Bengals @ Browns

J: Bengals

E: Bengals

Monday Night Football!

Patriots @ Dolphins

J: Patriots

E: Dolphins

College Football Picks Week 5!

2010-10-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

College Football Picks Week 5!

Bama vs. Florida … Texas and Oklahoma!

LAST WEEK:

J: 17-3

E: 16-4

#1 Alabama vs. #7 Florida

J: Florida

E:Florida

#2 Ohio State @ Illinois

J: Ohio State

E:Ohio State

#3 Boise State @ New Mexico State

J: Boise State

E:Boise State

#4 Oregon vs. #9 Stanford

J: Oregon

E: Stanford

#5 TCU vs. Colorado State

J: TCU

E: TCU

#8 Oklahoma vs. Texas

J: Oklahoma

E: Oklahoma

#10 Auburn vs. Louisiana Monroe

J: Auburn

E: Auburn

#11 Wisconsin vs. #24 Michigan State

J: Wisconsin

E: Michigan State

#12 LSU vs. Tennessee

J: LSU

E: LSU

#16 Miami vs Clemson

J: Miami

E: Miami

#17 Iowa @ #22 Penn State

J: Penn State

E: IOWA

#18 USC vs. Washington

J: USC

E: USC

#19 Michigan @ Indiana

J: Michigan

E:Michigan

#23 NC State vs. Virginia Tech

J: Va Tech

E: NC State

#25 Nevada @ UNLV

J: Nevada

E: Nevada

NFL WEEK 3!

2010-09-26T09:03:00.000-07:00

It's pick time again, but teams aren't helping us out. The Jets blew week 1, but bounced back in a huge way against the Pats. The Colts couldn't keep up with the Texans, but smashed the Giants. So will we finally see some identity in week three?!

Last Week:
J: 11-5
E: 10-6

Titans @ Giants
J: Giants: Young faces another good defense.
E: Titans: Vince Young and CJ bounce back after a dreadful performance last week!

Steelers @ Bucs

J: Bucs: Uncertainty at QB for the Steelers.

E: Steelers:Not really confident in Batch but I love the Steelers D!

Bengals @ Panthers

J: Bengals: They'll have fun with Jimmy Clausen's first start.

E: Bengals: My boys are going off!

Browns @ Ravens

J: Ravens: The real Browns take down the fake Browns.

E: Ravens: Oh man this could get real ugly!

Cowboys @ Houston

J: Cowboys: I want to pick Houston, but there's no way that Dallas starts 0-3...right?

E: Houston: Should be a great game and I go to go with the home team!

49ers @ Chiefs

J: 49ers This game could go either way, but I'm hoping the 49ers finally have their act together.

E: 49ers: They are a great team and Gore, Davis, and Crabtree should have monster days!

Lions @ Vikings

J: Vikings: Yeah.

E: Vikes: Peterson goes for 200 yards!

Bills @ Patriots

J: Pats

E: Pats

Falcons @ Saints

J: Falcons: Won't be surprised if Saints win (obviously). Gut feeling.

E: Falcons!

Redskins @ Rams

J: Redskins

E: Redskins!

Eagles @ Jaguars

J: Eagles

E: VICK!

Raiders @ Cardinals

J: Raiders

E: Cards!

Chargers @ Seahawks

J: Seahawks: My upset of the week. With no run game, how can the Bolts establish a good pass?

E: Chargers

Colts @ Broncos

J: Colts: I have ZERO confidence in this pick.

E: COLTS!!

Jets @ Dolphins

J: Jets: Going to be a close game.

E: FINS!

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

Packers @ Bears

J: Bears: Should be a great game, but I think the Bears are playing better football, and the Packers don't have Grant anymore.

E: PACKS- Shootout of the week but I think Pakcs win by 2 tds!

Good luck picking and good luck to your teams!

College Football Picks Week 4!

2010-09-25T16:20:00.000-07:00

Teams prove if they're worthy this week!

LAST WEEK:
J: 20-3
E: 21-2

#1 Alabama @ #10 Arkansas

J: Bama

E: Arkansas

#2 Ohio State vs. E. Michigan

J: Ohio State ... should be embarrassed.

E: Ohio State

#3 Boise State vs. Oregon State

J: Boise State

E: Boise State

#4 TCU @ SMU

J: TCU

E: TCU

#5 Oregon vs. Arizona State

J: Oregon

E: Oregon

#6 Nebraska @ S. Dakota State

J: Nebraska

E: Nebraska

#7 Texas vs. UCLA

J: Texas

E: I want UCLA haha

#8 Oklahoma @ Cincinnati

J: Oklahoma

E: Okllahoma

#9 Florida vs. Kentucky

J: Florida

E: Kentucky

#11 South Carolina @ #17 Auburn

J: South Carolina

E: Auburn

#13 Utah vs. San Jose St.

J: Utah

E: Utah

#14 Arizona vs. Cal

J: Arizona

E: Cal

#15 LSU vs #22 West Virginia

J: LSU

E: West Virginia

#16 Stanford @ Notre Dame

J: Notre Dame

E: Stanford

#18 Iowa vs. Ball State

J: Iowa

E: Iowa

#19 Miami vs. Pitt

J: Miami

E: Miami

#20 USC vs. Washington State

J: USC

E: USC

#21 Michigan vs. Bowling Green

J: Michigan - Why are they ranked?

E: Michigan hhah

#23 Penn State vs. Temple

J: Penn State

E: Penn State

#25 Michigan State vs. N Colorado

J: Mich State

E: Mich State

NFL WEEK 2!!

2010-09-19T03:52:00.000-07:00

What an exciting week 1 in the NFL! However, too many injuries but that's just part of the game. A lot of my upset picks came through last week and I hope to keep them coming.So week 2 lets hope for less injuries and more OT games! If you have ARIAN FOSTER in your fantasy league you're a lucky guy! This week my boy MIKE VICK is a must start vs the Lions!! Here are our picks for week 2. Please comment and lets us know your picks. We would like to see if you could beat us, but that may be to easy...haha.

LAST WEEK

Blatz: 11-5

Gonzo: 9-7

Cardinals @ Falcons

EB: I like my Falcons to smash on the Cardinals this week because they are a great home team. Matt Ryan and Roddy White should have a huge day and Michael Turner should wear down the Cards defense.

JG: Falcons

Ravens @ Bengals

EB: I also like my Bengals to beat the Ravens for their home opener! My boy OCHO and TO should have pretty descent games. As long as the O-line can block for Palmer, I'm sure that the WR core can do well against this Ed Reedless secondary.

JG: Bengals

Chiefs @ Browns

EB: The game of the week and this may be the AFC Championship game this year.. only kidding. Chiefs came through for me last week vs the Chargers; therefore, I'm picking them again! I love their young talent with Jamaal Charles, Mccluster, and Arenas.

JG: Chiefs

Bears @ Cowboys

EB: Cowboys should win easy at home tomorrow vs the Bears. Home opener with a lot of talent and two O-lineman back. This may be the easiest winner on the card tomorrow.

JG: Cowboys

Eagles @ Lions

EB: Ladies and Gentleman my boy MIKE VICK is officially back!! Therefore, I'm taking them to win big against a Lions team who should be 1-0! Calvin Johnson that was a TD in my book bro!

JG: Eagles

Bills @ Packers

EB: Packers should win by at least 3 tds. My boy Spiller better show up or it could be a 4td blowout.

JG: Packers

Steelers @ Titans

EB: Titans I think beat Pitt tomorrow by at least 2tds. People I'm telling you watch out for the Titans this year! Great RB and Vince Young is looking like college Vince Young!

JG: Titans

Dolphins at Vikings

EB: I got the Vikings to win impressively at home tomorrow. It's the home opener and they have had a lot of rest by playing that Thursday game. Look for AP and Favre to make some great plays and get a must needed win at home!

JG: Vikings

Bucs @ Panthers

EB: I love the Panthers tomorrow because they always play great at home. The run game will be very effective vs the weak TB defense. This game might get out of hand but we shall see.

JG: Bucs

Seahawks @ Broncos

EB: The Hawks came through for me last week but I like Broncos to win this one. The Broncos are going to be a really bad team this year but Its games like these they need to take advantage of. They won't get too many chances to win a lot of games like this year.

JG: Seahawks

Rams @ Raiders

EB: Rookie QB very first game on the road in the black hole? I will take Raiders all day!

JG: Raiders

Patriots @ Jets

EB: Probably the best game tomorrow on the card! This game can really go both ways, so in this one I will take the home team. Jets can't afford to go 0-2 but I wouldn't be surprised if they do.

JG: Jets

Jags @ Chargers

EB: Chargers have a lot of problems right now with their best O-lineman out and their best play maker out but I just see a lot of Rivers throwing all over the field tomorrow. I like the Chargers to win by a couple tds.

JG: Chargers

Texans @ Redskins

EB: This game is so tough to pick because both teams are coming off huge division wins. So to me this means huge let downs for both teams. Therefore, I give the edge to the home team tomorrow! My boy C-Portis needs to step up!!

JG: Redskins

Giants @ Colts

EB: THE MANNING BOWL! However, Peyton Manning is so much better than Eli, it's not even funny. It will still be a great game and I'm sure ELI will put up a great fight, but at the end of the day Peyton will always beat ELI!

JG: Colts

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL!!!

EB: 49ers upset the Saints!

JG: Saints

Let us know your picks!! CHEERS TO WEEK 2!!!

NFL PICKS WEEK 1!

2010-09-12T08:45:00.000-07:00

The NFL is back and ALL is right in the world!

Brett Favre is also back (shocker) and the Jets may have the biggest target on their back ever for a team that hasn't won a thing. Will the Steelers and Patriots continue their greatness? Or will some new team steal the trophy? Check out our picks!

Thursday, Sept. 9

MIN @ NO

J: Saints

E: Vikings

Sunday, Sept. 12

DEN @ JAC

J: Jags

E:Jags

OAK @ TEN

J: Titans

E: Titans

DET @ CHI

J: Lions

E: Bears

CIN @ NE

J: Bengals

E: Bengals

CLE @ TB

J: Bucs

E: Browns

ATL @ PIT

J: Falcons

E:Falcons

MIA @ BUF

J: Dolphins

E: Dolphins

CAR @ NYG

J: Giants

E:Giants

IND @ HOU

J: Colts

E:Houston

GB @ PHI

J: Packers

E:Eagles

ARI @ STL

J: Cards

E:Cards

SF @ SEA

J: 49ers

E:Seahawks

DAL @ WAS

J: Cowboys

E:Redskins

Monday Night Football on ESPN

BAL @ NYJ

J: Jets

E: Ravens

SD @ KC

J: Chargers

E:Chiefs

College Football Picks Week 2!

2010-09-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

COLLEGE PICKS WEEK 2

Some interesting match-ups in Week 2 featuring marquee teams. Can Ohio State win another big game vs. Miami? Can Nick Saban take down Joe Pa? Which team is overrated/underrated: Oklahoma vs. Florida State. Check out our picks!

#1 Alabama vs. # 18 Penn State

J: Bama over Paterno.

E: Bama over JOE PA!

#2 Ohio State vs. #12 Miami

J: Ohio State over Miami.

E:Ohio State over Miami

#4 TCU vs. Tennessee Tech

J: TCU over TTU

E: TCU over who?

#5 Texas vs. Rice

J: Texas over Rice

E:Texas over Rice

#6 Nebraska vs. Idaho

J: Nebraska over Idaho

E: Nebraska over Idaho

#7 Oregon @ Tennessee

J: Oregon over Tennessee

E: Oregon over Tennessee

#8 Florida over South Florida

J: Florida over South Florida

E: Florida over South Florida

#9 Iowa vs. Iowa State

J: Iowa over Iowa State

E: Iowa over Iowa State

#10 Oklahoma vs. #17 Florida State

J: FSU over Oklahoma

E: Oklahoma over FSU

#13 Virginia Tech vs. James Madison

J: V-Tech over James Madison…

E: V-Tech over James Madison

#14 Arkansas @ Louisiana-Monroe

J: Arkansas over Louisiana-Monroe

E: Arkansas over Monroe

#15 Georgia Tech @ Kansas

J: G-Tech over Kansas

E: G-Tech over Kansas

#16 USC vs. Virginia

J: USC over Virginia

E: USC over Virginia

#19 LSU @ Vanderbilt

J: LSU over Vanderbilt

E: LSU over Vandy

#20 Utah vs. UNLV

J: Utah over UNLV

E:Utah over UNLV

#22 Georgia @ #24 South Carolina

J: South Carolina over Georgia

E: South Carolina over Georgia

#23 West Virginia @ Marshall

J: WVU over Marshall

E: WVU over Marshall

#25 Stanford @ UCLA

J: Stanford @ UCLA

E: UCLA over Stanford

It's hard trying to say goodbye to Manny Ramirez...

2010-08-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

so I'll try it this way: Good riddance! See you! Peace! Ciao! So long! Later! Farewell! Bon Voyage! Hasta la vista! Auf Wiedersehen! Adios! Sayonara! Cheerio! God-speed! Deuces! Adieu! Get out! It's over! It's been fun! (sort of) Thanks for the memories! (eh)

(Now click play to hear Gene Wilder express my last 2 goodbye's)

Albert Pujols

2010-08-21T23:21:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else get the chills when they watch this commercial?

Albert is a beast and I just wanted to give a shout out to him right now. He's not my boy, but I respect this dude so much! And I hope everyone else does as well.

They say this year has been a down year: .316, 32 HR, and 88 RBI. I hope he's clean because otherwise I'll stop watching MLB haha.

Blatz out!

Rivers takes matters into his own hands

2010-08-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Philip Rivers: part quarterback, part linebacker?

Everyone's got something bad to say about Rivers: bad attitude, a**hole, big mouth, ugly passer. But you can't deny his ability to throw, as ugly as it may be, and you can't deny his will to win and play football. Did you see tonights game?

Yeah. Dude stretegically tackled a guy after a fumble and prevented 6 points. No, it wasn't Jason Taylor or Bart Scott he stopped, but that takes heart. Risking injury during week 2 of the preseason? Dude is a badass.

He'll never be my favorite player -- far from it in fact -- but he's got my respect, not that he needs it. But if he asks, then he's always had it.

ESPN's Adam Schefter might've said it best: If [Antonio] Cromartie could tackle like Rivers, he would still be a Charger.

Floyd "Phoney" Mayweather

2010-05-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

Last night's fight between Floyd Mayweather and Shane Mosley was boring, defensive and overrated.

Basically, it was like any other Mayweather bout I've ever seen.

So, my question is: when are we going to actually see Mayweather fight someone legitimate? I mean, he's never lost a fight (41-0), professionally at least, but it's because he's never fought anyone.

Sure, in the last few years he beat two great fighters: Oscar De La Hoya and Shane Mosley. But these fighters were years removed from their primes when they fought Mayweather and I truly discredit Mayweather's victories against them.

The next name I will bring up won't be a shocker: Manny Pacquiao, who I feel to this day, is the only fighter on the planet, fast enough and smart enough, to actually beat Mayweather in 12. And we were on the verge of seeing this fight, but it was Mayweather that chickened out.

Mayweather and Pacquiao had agreed to all of the terms of the fight except for Mayweather's request that both fighters be tested by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, something Mayweather had never asked of any fighter before him. The agency conducts Olympic-style drug testing and these tests, which include random blood tests at any time before the fight, are much stricter rules than what the State of Nevada requires.

In an era when steroids are an issue in many pro sports, do I believe Manny should've stepped up and taken the tests? Yes. And it was his denial of taking the tests that ultimately put the fight on the back-burner. But I don't blame Pacquiao for a second.

It's Mayweather's fault that the two have yet to fight.

Do I believe Pacquiao can actually defeat Mayweather? Yes. Do I think Mayweather knows this also? Yes.

So, Mayweather asked this of Pacquiao knowing that he would never go through with it. Because now Pacquiao looks suspicious while Mayweather looks like the hero claiming that he's trying to "clean up the sport."

But what he's doing is ruining it. Did Mayweather-Mosley shatter pay-per-view records? Nope. Will Mayweather-Paquiao do so? Very likely.

And it's also the fault of the sport of boxing for continuing to allow fighters to schedule their own bouts, not scheduling fights for them.

So, Mayweather, will you please man up and make the fight happen? Understand that you can always take blood immediately after the fight.

Maybe then I can consider you one of the best of all time, or just keep you as one of the most overrated.

Which is the most difficult sport of them all?

2010-04-26T21:10:00.000-07:00

I embrace the discussion about what the hardest sport to play is. For the sake of ridiculous arguments, we'll stick to popular American sports in this article.

But this is still never an easy discussion. It usually leads to arguments, yelling and shoving. Well, maybe not shoving, but thoughts of it. Let me throw you in the mix.

I should begin by warning you that there is no easy way to start this because there's no clear answer.

Let's see. Well, there's golf, in which a player is required to hit, with a club, a tiny white ball hundreds of yards onto a relatively small patch of pristine grass, and eventually into a tiny little hole. That seems super difficult to do. Plus, one must do this is 4 or less tries? It's no easy feat, but then again, golfers are never playing directly against someone. And they never do run.

So is golfing harder than playing tennis? In tennis, players must hit a green ball flying at them at 140mph with a flat surface racket, and they only have seconds to react. Then they usually have to sprint to the other side of the court right after. It looks easier than it is!

But wait. In baseball, hitters must do the same as in tennis, only hit a ball flying at them with a thin wooden stick. And if they hit the ball only three out of every ten times they're up to bat, they're considered great! Could someone have told my teachers in high school that 30% could actually make me millions?

So, there goes individual sports out of the mix. That must mean baseball is the hardest sport to play. Trying to hit a tiny little ball over the length of a football field, then sprinting around a huge diamond of bases. But I won't settle for that. I mean, they've got 300 pound guys just standing on the mound throwing balls at dudes. Difficult for sure, but not really athletic.

What about basketball? Players are required to dribble this huge orange ball around a court and try to get the ball into a basket ten feet high! Then they have to defend other players from doing so. Did I mention that the basket's diameter is not that much wider than ball? Now, we're getting somewhere.

If these basketball players make only one shot every other time they shoot, then they're considered to be amazing! The accuracy of one's shot must be nearly impeccable. Yet, I'm still not satisfied. Sure, these players have to run up and down this big court all the time, but they're constantly being pulled from the court to bench. Breaks? C'mon now.

Let's go to some sports without nap times.

Football. America's pride and joy! I mean, this year's NFL Draft grabbed more ratings than NBA playoff basketball. It's this country's beloved sport for sure, but is it the hardest to play?

In football, a player is required to hit and make physical contact on every play. It doesn't even matter if they have the football or not. If they do, then they're trying to plow through huge men trying to take out their legs, or worse, all to reach a destination so great that when reached, it feels like they died and went to heaven. Plus a quarterback must throw the ball to a moving target, usually running away from them, and into their hands without the ball being intercepted or batted down by a defender. It's tough stuff.

But wait just a minute! These guys often get subbed in and out like in basketball. Well, except the quarterback, but usually he's never doing much more than a baseball pitcher does. And the quarterback isn't even allowed to get hit? C'mon now. Football, you lost your shot.

What about the other "football?" Soccer! Now, that's a hard sport to play! 22 players, split into teams of 11, run up and down a field bigger than a football field, and try to put a ball the size of a basketball past a goalie and into a big net.

Sounds easy?

Well, soccer players have one main rule: They can't use their hands! That means they must run around a field and kick the ball around all at the same time. It just sounds exhausting!So surely they must need a lot of breaks. Well, sure they do, but teams, at the most, only get three substitutions per game. That means at least eight of the guys on each team are running around for 90 minutes! 90 minutes?! I get tired of running after 10 minutes!

So, we're getting really warm. I can feel it.

I got it: hockey! It's the perfect mix of all the sports previously mentioned. Oh, I think we may have found our answer!

Hockey players suit up like a football players with those heavy pads, but then they're required to hold those long sticks and use them to get a little black puck past a huge goalie and into a small goal. Extremely difficult.

And on defense, it's another story. They have to check (hit) other players up against the wall of the rink just to get their puck back, and that's not a guarantee either. This often lead to fights, which is allowed, to a certain extent.

So, let's recap hockey for a moment. Hockey players hit like football players, fight like boxers, go up and down the rink at high speeds like in basketball, and their ultimate goal is score a tiny puck into a goal like in soccer? And they do this while ice skating?! I think we've found our winner.

So, lo and behold the hardest sport to play in America: hockey. Congratulations players! You've got the toughest job in the USA, well, behind the presidency.

*I mean no disrespect towards athletes of any sport. As a less-than-mediocre athlete myself, I find and respect the great difficulty in playing any sport at the amateur and professional levels.

Ben Roethlisberger: GROW UP

2010-04-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

You know him as the Steelers two-time Super Bowl champion QB. He's only 28 years old and has accomplished more than most QB's ever will. He's one of the brightest minds in the game.

But off the field, the guy is a team's worst nightmare. He's currently warranting the Steeler organization to put a leash around his neck and tug it when he wanders off too far.

He seems to mess up every offseason. So, what is it going to take before Ben Roethlisberger just gets it?

Let's go back to the months after Roethlisberger won his first Super Bowl -- you know -- when he almost died in that motorcycle accident. He wasn't wearing a helmet, nor was he carrying a valid license, when he was thrown over the handlebars of his bike. Seriously? No helmet? Maybe we should've known then that this guy doesn't seem to care about his life all that much.

Then a year ago, after winning his 2nd Super Bowl, he was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in his hotel room while in Lake Tahoe for a celebrity golf tournament. Being an LA sports fan, this sounded familiar, but I was convinced that all this woman wanted was money. That was, at least, until last month.

Roethlisberger had once again been accused of sexual assault, but sad to say, this case sounded more legitimate. It's unclear exactly what went down, and it's likely we'll never find out. But we know there was blood, a bathroom and bodyguards stopping the accuser's friends from reaching her. What a headache.

Now Ben Roethlisberger is awaiting possible suspension from the NFL, even though he won't be charged with any crime. But this doesn't change the fact Ben can't stay out of trouble. What does it take for a rich pro athlete to keep his crayon from leaving the lines?

So many atheletes, like Roethlisberger, mess up often. People tend to blame it on their entourage. But I'm tired of hearing excuses for adult athletes that shouldn't be making these mistakes at all.

Ben is a grown man and he chose to make the mistake of going to that Atlanta club that night, not his friends. Mike Vick chose to kill those dogs, not his friends. Pac Man Jones chose to start fights and, well, you get my point.

If I mess up it's my fault. Same for you. But why isn't that standard held for athletes?

I just wish Ben would grow up. Unlike the other athletes I mentioned, I actually expect good things of Ben. For some reason, it still shocks me when makes these mistakes.

Anyway, they're all spoiled brats. Roethlisberger should just be lucky he's white, otherwise he might've lost more than his jerky.

NBA Season Awards and Playoff Predictions!

2010-04-17T19:22:00.000-07:00

The Playoff's are finally here, but before we get into our predictions, we need to give out our season awards!

MVP

E: Lebron James
J: Lebron James

Sixth Man

E: Jamal Crawford
J: Jamal Crawford

Most Improved Player

E: Gerald Wallace
J: Gerald Wallace

Rookie of the year

E: Tyreke Evans
J: Tyreke Evans

Defensive Player of the year

E: Dwight Howard
J: LeBron James

Coach of the Year

E: Larry Brown
J: Scott Brooks

Best Dunk of the year

E: D-Wade over Varajeo
J: Josh Smith vs. Magic to win the game!

Best Buzzer Beater

E: Kobe over Wade
J: Kobe over Wade

We would love to hear your season awards and see how they compare to ours.

Playoff Predictions!

Bold Predictions:
E: EAST: Bobcats over Magic. WEST: Spurs over Mavs
J: EAST: Bucks over Hawks. WEST: Spurs over Mavs.

Playoff teams that may surprise you:

E: EAST: Hawks/ Bobcats. WEST: Jazz/Spurs.
J: EAST: Bucks/ Bobcats. WEST: Suns/Mavs.

Western Conference Finals:

E: Lakers over Suns
J: Nuggets over Mavs

Eastern Conference Finals:

E: Cavs over Hawks
J: Cavs over Magic

Finals:

E: Lakers over Cavs
J: Cavs over Nuggets

Finals MVP:

E: Kobe
J: LeBron

Show us your predictions! Let us know what you agree and disagree on our picks. Enjoy the NBA Playoff's and stay tuned for all playoff updates on our facebook or twitter page.

Phil Mickelson: The Beauty of the Masters

2010-04-12T19:54:00.000-07:00

Think it's been a tough six months for Tiger Woods? It's been a rough year for Phil Mickelson.

Mickelson's wife, Amy, was diagnosed with breast cancer last May. His mother, Mary, was diagnosed breast cancer in July. And in November, Tiger Woods drove his car into a tree and his life into the ground.

So, naturally in the week leading up to the Masters, the headlines surrounding the prestigious event were littered with the name "Tiger Woods." Sure, Tiger's name sells papers, but it was Mickelson who would end the week atop the leaderboard and with his name in the headlines, well deserved.

It was by far Mickelson's biggest career win to date and there seemed to be this overwhelming support among the crowds for him.

I mean, did you catch Phil's shot through the trees, over the creek, and onto the green? Shots like that, especially on Sunday at the Masters, are usually reserved for the man in red; It was very "Tiger-esque." But the way the week went, it was no surprise whatsoever to see Phil make such a clutch shot down the stretch.

It was then that I realized Lefty had the Masters all but locked up. I also began to realize the irony in the weekend.

Tiger's comeback parade was rained on by the one man you can pretty much call his rival. It was more than a number one against number three; it was a man that tarnished his marriage against the man who stood alongside his wife in an unimaginable situation.

Two very opposite stories for two even more opposite men. You couldn't write it any better. Yet, it was so refreshing. For once, it was Phil who stole the show. You could almost forget Tiger was even playing.

But for Tiger, it was one of his biggest weekends as well, and to his credit, he ended the tourney strong and finished only five strokes behind Lefty. But Mickelson, who earned his third green jacket Sunday, and fourth major title overall, will leave Augusta more accomplished than ever. He earned every bit of his Masters win and my respect forever.

Don't get me wrong. I love Tiger Woods as much as the next average golf fan. I think we're lucky to witness his greatness every time he picks up a club, but I think it's days like today that make us lucky to see other kinds of greatness.

We got to see Phil Mickelson, a guy who seems like he could be your neighbor, pull out a memorable victory during one of the hardest times of his young life. It was so easy to relate to.

At the end of the day, I'm just glad we weren't talking about Tiger anymore. We were talking about something greater. We were talking about a man who has always treated his wife with respect. Today, I became a Phil Mickelson fan. (Go ahead, you can barf now.)

2010 MLB SEASON PREVIEW!

2010-04-04T12:10:00.000-07:00

Yankee haters: We understand your pain. The Dodgers haven't won a title in 21 years but the Yanks can put together a championship contender easier than we can say "Doyers!"

But even though the Yankees may seem like they're in a league of their own, we're here to tell you why they're not. We're here to tell you whether the Dodgers or Angels will finally make it over the hump, and what teams will surprise you this year! We're going to tell you who will win the MVPs, Cy Youngs and division titles! This is Talk At The Urinal's 2010 MLB Season Preview!

First things first...

--DIVISION TITLES--

*NATIONAL LEAGUE*

WEST:

Winner:
E: (DODGERS) I got the Dodgers but it's going to be a close race all year. The pitching staff needs to step up because the offense will get it done.

J: (DODGERS) I got the Dodgers as well, but it's definitely going to be close. The Giants have the best staff by far, probably in the league, and they're only a couple of bats away from not only competing for the division, but for championships.

Runner-up:
E: (ROCKIES) Rockies will be runner up to the Dodgers all year long and may even win the division.

J: (GIANTS) The Giants are right there. This pick may end up being switched with the Dodgers by the end of the season. Also, look out for the Rockies or Diamondbacks.

CENTRAL:

Winner:
E: (BREWERS) The central to me is a division up for grabs! Cubs, Reds, Cardinals the favorite and even the Brewers are on the rise. The division winner will come down to pitching and who is healthy! I will take Brewers to make a surprise run for division.

J: (CARDINALS) Albert Pujols. Need I say more? Well, I will. Carpenter, Wainwright, Penny. How about Molina, Holliday, and Ludwick? Done deal in the Central.

Runner-up:
E: (REDS) Watch out for the Reds but most likely the Cardinals will be right there because of their pitching and offense.

J: (REDS) No deep reason why. I just don't like the Cubs or Brewers chances this year.

EAST:

Winner:
E: (METS) Yes, the Phillies are of course the favorite and have the best pitcher in the game, but I like the Mets in a upset! Johan will have a huge year and Pelfrey and Maine will come through. K-rod will be the dominant closer and the picking up of Jason Bay in the off-season will help tremendously!

J: (METS) Definitely the most talented team in the East, maybe the NL, and will finally stay healthy to finally win the NL East. I like the Phils, don't get me wrong, but let's just say they've been lucky that they haven't had to deal with the Mets. I only wonder what damage the Mets could've done these past few years if healthy.

Runner-up:
E: (PHILLIES) The Phillies will be right there all season long of course. Great pitching and great hitting.
J: (PHILLIES) C'mon...two straight WS appearances...they'll be in the thick of things.

NL WILDCARD
E: Phillies/Braves

J: Phillies

*AMERICAN LEAGUE*

WEST:
Winner:

E: (MARINERS) I like Seattle to win this division if Lee can be dominant like last year. They got some great young talent in Guitterez and Ichiro and of course my boy Griffey will step up!

J: (MARINERS) "Go ahead, jump!" I'm jumping on the bandwagon. Mainly because of my boy KG Jr. Don't really care. Could be Angels again, maybe Texas.

Runner-up:

E: (RANGERS) Texas will be right there along with the Angels. Honestly this division is up for grabs as well. Texas and Angels have great offense but their pitching is not strong enough.

J: (ANGELS) Can't count them out. I'd love to put Texas here, but I still think they need more to get over the hump.

CENTRAL:

Winner:
E: (TIGERS) Detroit will win the division because Verlander is a beast and the offense will step up this year.

J: (WHITE SOX) This team will finally play to their potential this year. But I don't want them to do amazing...I like my Ozzie moments

Runner-up:

E: (WHITE SOX) White Sox will be second place because Nathan is out for Twins and that will cost them.

J: (TIGERS) I want the Twins but the Tigers will be right there again. Nathan out for the Twins is crucial.

EAST:
Winner:
E: (RAYS) I'm going with my Rays on this one baby!! They have great young talent on both sides of the ball. Pitching: Price, Garza, Shields. Batting: My boys BJ, Crawford and Longoria are money. They are going to shock Yankees and Red Sox this year.

J: (YANKEES) Sorry. Done deal.

Runner-up:
E: (RED SOX) Boston will be the AL wildcard team and yes I'm saying the Yanks will not make the playoffs this year! (Blatz)

J: (RED SOX) I like the Rays, but think that the sox are so much better.

AL WILDCARD:
E: Red Sox/Rangers

J: Red Sox

Remember these guys? Yeah, they're last years MVPs. Will they repeat this year? We'll tell you!

*--AWARDS--*
*NATIONAL LEAGUE*
MVP:

E: Hanley Ramirez/ Ryan Braun
J: Pujols/

Cy Young:
E: Johan Santana/ Roy Halladay (blatz)

J: Carpenter/Lincecum

*AMERICAN LEAGUE*
MVP:
E: Crawford/A-Rod
J: Texiera/Mauer

Cy Young:
E: Justin Verlander/ Felix Hernandez
J: Felix Hernandez/

TEAMS THAT MAY SURPRISE YOU!
NL: Braves, Reds, Marlins
AL: Rays, Tigers, Royals, Rangers

WORLD SERIES PREDICTIONS
WHO WE WANT
E: Dodgers vs. Rays
J: Dodgers vs. Yankees
WHO WE THINK
E: Boston vs. Mets
J: Boston vs. Mets

At the end of the day, these are just predictions and we've got a whole season to uncover. Let us know how you all feel about our predictions and tell us why you think we're right or wrong!

-Talk At The Urinal

Kings Tumbling Down the Standings

2010-03-29T21:55:00.000-07:00

Kings game: 3/27, home vs. Dallas. It was the Kings sixth appearance this season against the Stars. They had won the previous five. The win was all but sealed up.

Instead, the Kings lost 4-1. They laid an egg. They didn't show up. The crowd knew it. It was reflected off of every players helmet mask.

That was when my girlfriend turned to me and said, "I hate when people boo their own teams." She knew what was coming.

I did too, but it didn't matter. You could feel the eruption of boos begin to explode. The fans that hadn't already booked it for their cars were ready to let the Kings know exactly how they felt. And then it began, one of the angriest boos I've ever been apart of. I didn't take place myself, as I sat there bummed out with my girlfriend. It was then that I turned to her and said, "I hate when people boo their teams too, but I understand why they do it: when their teams aren't playing up to their potential."

That's exactly what the Kings are doing. They're 5-9 since the Winter Olympic break and they're playing like it. But why have they all of a sudden started to unravel?

One of my good hockey friends, Richard, tells me it's because of their youth.

"The combination of age and Olympics is the major reason the Kings are struggling," said Richard. "The Kings had focus before the Olympics. Once in the olympics, that same focus transfers into a new goal: the Olympic gold." I'm afraid he's right. Many of the young studs have lost their rhythm, but even those who didn't put on an Olympic uniform.

Goalie Jonathan Quick has definitely not looked the same in the games he's played since leaving for Vancouver, even though he didn't play even a minute up there. That, and the addition of his newborn, will disrupt anyones rhythm. But we know there's no excuses in sports. He's had a monstrous season so far and in only his first year starting, he's top-5 in wins with 39 (Kings franchise-record) and top-10 in shutouts. But like I mentioned, it's only his first year starting. It takes a couple seasons to build up that stamina, and unfortunately, it's looking like Quick is needing some rest, though it comes at bad time in the season.

"The thing is, he [Quick] should have been getting some rest mid-season. Resting now would result in him needing warm up matches again to get back in the zone. He should have been doing that in the games before the Olympics, to be at his peak in about 2 weeks, when the playoffs start," said Richard. If in fact Quick is just fatigued, it comes understandably but at an unfortunate time.

Goalie Jonathan Bernier is scheduled to make his second start of the season, and his career, tomorrow night at Nashville. Erik Ersberg is currently sidelined with an injury.

But it's not just the goal that's been rocked lately. The Kings offense has been so jagged and inconsistent. It hasn't looked as fluid as it did earlier in the season and it's tough to say why this is occurring. I'm sure fatigue has set in and it's being mixed with a lack of motivation to finish out the long season. Several players have complained about a lack of enthusiasm when playing. Also, the addition of Modin and Williams back into the line up may have thrown off chemistry. That chemistry was scoring plenty of goals and winning games without them. However, of course they are better with both men in the line up.

I know it's brutal to watch right now Kings fans. They were looking ahead to playoffs, and now they need to look behind them to assure themselves a spot better than eighth, or a spot at all.
Regardless of their recent play, I have a feeling this team will rise back up. There are plenty of leaders and veterans on this team and they've got a dangerous combination of experience and youth. The Kings are a force to reckoned with and will be something to look out for as the playoffs start in a few weeks.

MMA: A Card That Might Not Be Boring

2010-03-26T00:00:00.001-07:00

By: Ben Tickner, Contributor

After an 8 month hiatus, finally another GSP fight. I'll come right out and say it; I am a believer in Georges St. Pierre. I will gladly admit to it any day of the week. However, more on the main event in a little bit. For now, we actually have a decent card coming from Zuffa this weekend, a bit of everything so far as weight classes and styles are concerned. Considering I have been ever so jaded about the past few UFC cards, the fact that I'm psyched about this one says something special to yours truly.

Pellegrino vs. Camoes, on paper, has the makings of an awesome fight. Both men are exceptional jiu jitsu practitioners and, though a huge amount of meatheads watching UFCs have no clue what's going on if two big guys aren't “banging,” for those of us who actually enjoy a good points jiu jitsu or a solid wrestling match (with the added bonus of punches and elbows), this might be really entertaining. However, with that said, what makes this fight interesting could also be its downfall. As so many of us who have watched enough MMA fights know, two solid ground fighters could easily nullify each other and end up putting on a 15 minute snoozefest with all the excitement of a Lifetime original movie. I can't decide which way this one is going to go, to be honest. I will go so far as to say that, considering the latest showings put on when two solid ground fighters meet in the octagon, it will most likely be the latter of the two options. Either way Pellegrino's experience is going to be the difference in the fight. Best case scenario is a submission midway second round, though all signs point to an ugly mix of C level kickboxing combined with the the oh-so-typical ground hugging floor-n-bore we have come to know and hate from the UFC in recent events.

As long as we're even mentioning snoozefests, let's not leave out a fight on this card that guarantees to be one. Mark Bocek vs. Jim Miller will have all the fireworks one might expect on the afternoon of July 5th. What we have here are two wrestlers who will almost certainly nullify each others ground game leaving us with a horror story of a kickboxing match. Yes, it is possible someone might get knocked out, but that isn't enough for me and it shouldn't be for you. Two guys possessing as much technique in the stand-up game as I do in figure skating going toe-to-toe for any amount of time is a bad thing regardless of the outcome. Not much more needs to be said about this fight, in my opinion, barring some miracle I see Bocek delivering an ugly decision. One thing's for certain everyone, if you're running out of beer anytime around this fight or look like you might after, do yourself a favor and use the time to visit your local liquor store.

Originally scheduled to fight Thiago Alves in a long awaited rematch, Jon Fitch will be fighting the ever improving Ben Saunders. Considering Saunders willingness to duke it out, matched with Fitch's uncanny ability to take punches and wear guys out on the ground, this has sleeper fight of the night written all over it. Though both men are coming off of wins, Fitch's win was lackluster at best and has seemed to be in a funk since GSP ran through him like a Macho Combo Burrito. Saunders, on the other hand, had a very impressive victory a couple months back when he kneed Marcus Davis into whatever millennium Captain Kirk was born in. Also, considering both men were training for fights for Saturday and neither are fighting the man they were preparing for, neither man has a legitimate advantage as far as that goes. Though Saunders is a freakishly tall welterweight with solid power, we have yet to see him up against a legitimate ground and pound phenom, the likes of which Fitch can be. Assuming Fitch shows up to fight on Saturday, I'm calling Fitch by stoppage in the second. If the same Fitch that showed up against Pierce shows up on Saturday, however, it could get ugly once he gets in close as Saunders will eat Jon Fitch alive in the clinch if he isn't game.

Frank Mir vs. Carwin for the interim world title, whatever that means is our lead-up to the main event. If Mir wins, this will be his second interim title. The real sad story will be if he wins and then gets demolished a second time by Brock thus losing both interim world titles to the same person in embarrassing fashion. However, all sarcasm aside, this has the makings of a solid bout. Carwin has power to spare regardless of what round it is, making him dangerous at any time. However, Carwin has yet to see the second round and, though that may be impressive, against a seasoned veteran like Frank Mir he may be in for some trouble. Frank Mir's added size and strength was impressive whilst crushing Cheick Kongo and though Carwin has power, I'm not completely sure I trust his actual boxing ability. Though Carwin could always catch him, if this match ends in anything other then a submission from Frank Mir I'll be surprised.

Lastly, the fight we've all been waiting for and, though I'm a big GSP fan and definitely looking forward to seeing him fight again, this wasn't the fight I was hoping for. Yes, the UFC has done a great job hyping up the fight, awesome job really, but Dan Hardy is not a legitimate contender. I'm sorry folks, but four straight wins, the best being a decision victory over Mike Swick, has not, in the past, earned you a shot at a man many consider to be the best pound for pound fighter in the world today. Thiago Alves racked up seven straight wins, including knockouts over Karo Parisyan and Matt Hughes, before getting his title shot. Jon Fitch, 8 UFC wins, including wins over Alves by TKO, and Diego Sanchez. Dan Hardy has decision victories over Swick and Marcus Davis (the Davis decision was a split), four UFC wins, and has earned himself a title shot. In a time of mediocre sports champions... men like the Klitchkos, Kelly Pavlik, and teams the New Orleans Saints, and the Anaheim Ducks... the risk of throwing in a mediocre, albeit marketable, talent like Dan Hardy against someone as awe inspiring as GSP has disaster written all over it.

What if Dan Hardy pulls off the upset? What happens then? Well, I'll tell you what happens then... he will never have one successful title defense. Whichever legitimate contender he fights next will then get the title, GSP will run through a division again (which will include putting the hurt on Hardy in a rematch) and then we'll be back at square one. Don't get me wrong though, a puncher's chance is the only chance Dan Hardy has. Dan Hardy is an interesting fighter, and can put on a good show, but his skill level is nowhere near that of GSP. People talk about Hardy's power and his stand-up but let's not forget that Rush is coming off of a fight against the scariest stand-up artist in the welterweight division. A fight in which said striker was knocked down by the champ as well as beat down on the ground, an area that Alves far surpasses Hardy, for five rounds. Though the fight may be interesting as Hardy will not be backing up and will be throwing everything he has behind every punch, I see GSP exposing him for what he truly is... a fighter who can get asses in seats but doesn't really have a place amidst the welterweight elite. GSP wins this one by mounting Hardy and getting a stoppage no later then the third round, but I wouldn't be surprised if it happened earlier. And once again, let me reiterate, regardless of the challenger, I can't wait to watch Rush do what he does best... hurt people.

Sorry, but America Will Never Love Hockey

2010-03-05T19:51:00.000-08:00

“Do you believe in miracles? Yes!”

Al Michaels uttered those famous words during the final seconds of the 1980Winter Olympics men's hockey game between USA and USSR. USA defeated the seeminglyunbeatable USSR team and the game instantly became USA’s proudest hockeymoment. The game, often mistaken for the gold medal game, put American hockeyon a pedestal it had never stood on before.

However, the charm wore off after a while. The NFL continued its dominanceduring the 1980’s and the NBA's popularity exploded, taking off on aninternational level. The NHL, well they just kept skating along.

In the days following the 2010 Winter Olympic men’s hockey game between USA andCanada, I’ve heard plenty of talk about whether hockey will finally becomepopular here in the states. So far, the precedent doesn't exist.

“The game was so thrilling, so intense,” says my cousin Bryant Solorazano,self-proclaimed hockey nut.

“So many people are going to fall in love with the sport after watching it.”

It was an incredible event, no doubt, but maybe viewers just fell in love withone game. Even I can be caught watching women’s basketball or PBA bowling ifit’s a nail biter down the stretch.

Of the four major sports in America, it’s no secret that hockey sits at thebottom of the list – but why is that? I mean, it’s relatively easier to learnthan football and baseball. It’s like soccer on ice! Wait, bad analogy. But inall seriousness, why is it that hockey, like soccer, has failed to bring outeven a wince of enthusiasm from the average American sports fan?

I have two reasons:

1. The Soccer Effect (Coined that myself!)

We Americans love our sports, when they’re high scoring at least. It’s verylikely you’ll tell me I caught a good football game if I tell you the finalscore was 45-42. What about a 10-7 defensive struggle or a 9-3 field goal game?Well, that’s just plain boring!

Mistake number one is that people often use the “soccer on ice” comparison whenexplaining hockey to a newbie. I believe most American’s can’t stand soccerbecause the teams and players don’t score enough. Same with hockey, you rarelyget your 10-9 thrillers. It’s a good thing that the NHL added shootouts afterovertime, for the sake of grabbing more fans at least, but it still hasn’thelped. The only thing Americans hate more than low scores are ties.

However, most average sports fans don’t realize how hard it really is to scorea goal in hockey. NHL goalies are incredibly talented and have laser-likevision. It’s a mini-victory in itself when a player scores against any of thetop goalies in the league. That’s where my reason number two comes into play.

2. The best defense is a good offense.

America doesn’t appreciate defense! This goes for any sport. Unless it’s in ourmilitary budget, defense is something average sports fans don’t like hearingabout. To them, stopping someone from scoring will never be as exciting asscoring itself. They want to see Drew Brees throw 6 touchdowns, not Ray Lewisshut down the running back at the line. They want to see Kobe Bryant score 50points instead of the Spurs winning a game 85-79. I guess this all ties in tothe notion that America does like things bigger, including their stats.

I’ll be honest: my hockey fan-ness isn’t on the same level as my love forfootball and basketball, but it’s getting there. I used to be one of thosepeople that didn’t want to hear about the difficulty of scoring a goal inhockey. I didn’t understand how special it is when a team does score a goal.Did I mention the players are doing all of this on skates? I’m growing to lovehockey more every time I watch it, but I’m not getting any better atpronouncing the players names.

Luckily for us Angelenos, we have an NHL playoff contender currently sitting at4^th place in the Western Conference. The LA Kings sent 5 players tothe Olympics, 4 that medaled. Their goalie, Jonathan Quick, is leading theleague with the most wins in his first year as a full-time starter. However,even a 4^th place playoff spot isn’t enough to make people change thechannel from Lakers basketball to tune into LA Kings hockey. When the AnaheimDucks won the Stanley Cup in 2007, all was fabulous until the Angels were sweptby the Red Sox four months later in the ALDS, when everyone forgot about that“lame ‘ol” Stanley Cup.

What the NHL needs to do is play to their strengths. American hockey fans maynot be strong in numbers, but they’re strong in passion. The NHL needs to moveteams away from cities that have no place having a hockey team: Tampa Bay,Phoenix, and Nashville. Those teams can’t possibly compete with their localNFL, NBA, and MLB franchises.

Also, this was the first USA team made up entirely of NHL players, all of whichgrew up watching Gretsky. Now the NHL is questioning whether they should evenallow players to compete in the Olympics? That'll really help USA hockey. Thinkabout all of the kids currently learning to play hockey because they want to bethe next Sidney Crosby or Alex Ovechkin. What does it show those same kids ifthe NHL does not allow them to compete for the highest honor when they turnpro?

I’m sorry to sound like such a pessimist. I know that the Olympic tournamentended with one of the greatest and most important hockey games ever played.Unfortunately, the NHL will never be as big as the NFL, NBA, or MLB, but itmight just be the most exciting sport to watch of the four. Hockey fans willjust have to continue going strong. I just wish the popularity would rise tohelp a league that is struggling financially. I want my hockey to stay, but whoreally cares if it does? It’s Canada’s sport after all, right?

The sports you should be watching, but may not know about!

2010-02-17T02:27:00.000-08:00

So, I feellike these past few weeks have been, for lack of a better term, juiced up withan array of huge sporting events.

Olympics, Super Bowl, NBA All-Star game—youname the sport and something big has probably happened in it. And it's times like this that it's easy for other great sports to get lost in the mix.

Here’s a list of major sporting events in the last 10 days:

- Super Bowl
- 2010 Winter Olympics
- NASCAR Daytona 500
- NBA All-Star Game

But there are so many other sports that most people don’t even know are occurring. If you’re one of those people, I feel it’s my duty to bring these sports toyour attention!

Do you love hockey and the Winter Olympics? Then you definitely remember, orhave heard of, the “Miracle on Ice”: USA over USSR in Men’s Hockeycirca 1980. Well, if you loved that story, then I hope you love the 2010version of the match – with females in skates.

USA Women’s Hockey demolished—or vanquished—Russia 13-0 today. 13-0?! Are youkidding me? That’s even less competitive than NCAA ladies basketball.

Speaking of which, UConn women’s basketball continued their stupidly ridiculouswin streak to 65 games, all won by double-digits. That’s as competitive as USCfootball’s run atop the Pac-10 last decade or UCLA’s 90 men's basketballchampionships in 30 years. This years women’s tourney is looking to be a greatone.

How about theWestminster Kennel Club Dog Show? It's events like this that add to the glory of Madison Square Garden. Congratulations to little Sadie: winner ofthe Triple Crown; first Triple Crown in professional sports in 31 years!

Ha.

And back to professional sports: NBA’s New Jersey Nets have won their fifth gameof the season. They beat the Charlotte Bobcats 103-94 Tuesday. They’re only 29games behind Boston for first place in the Atlantic division.

Anything thrilling in the Olympics?

American figure skater Johnny Weir did not win a medal Tuesday night inthe short program, instead placing 6^th overall. =..(

So let me get thisstraight: in a sport that seems to be a fashion show on ice, Johnny Weir,the best dressed and most creative, only placed 6^th? I don’tunderstand nor care how the sport is judged, but maybe they deduct points for too much fur on the ice.

Now, it's possible that none of the aforementioned sports are your thing. You're a football guy, a basketball guy, I get it.

But if for some reason these thrilling sporting events aren’t enough to feed your hunger, thencheck out Men’s Curling in this year’s 2010 Winter Olympics. I hear the USAteam is off to a rocky start, but that’s as relevant as Frank McCourt’s existence.

Also, you can check out Mel Kiper, Jr. versus Todd McShay all day, every day on ESPN. Plus, watch Mel lose a fight with a hairspray bottle!

*Note: We here at Talk At The Urinal send our prayers out to George Karl, hisfamily, and the Denver Nuggets organization. We wish him nothing but the bestof luck throughout this difficult time. We consider George Karl more than oneof the best coaches in the league, he’s one of the great people in the NBA.

NBA Midseason Review and Award Show

2010-02-13T14:40:00.001-08:00

Super Bowl Preview Show!

2010-02-06T09:18:00.001-08:00

Lakers Grammy Road Trip

2010-02-02T20:01:00.000-08:00

Lakers are FINALLY done with their 8 game Grammyroad trip!

Game 1 (@ Cavs) The road trip startedoff in Cleveland, and we all know how that went. Lakers played tough the wholegame, but could not contain LeBron down the stretch – or make a basket! Rightthere, to me, the road trip was already a failure. However, I do remember thatthe Magic swept the Lakers last year, and we know who won the Finals.

Game 2 (@ Knicks) Kobe didn’t shinelike he usually does in Madison Square, but of course Lakers got the win.

Game 3 (@ Toronto) After a day offand the Lakers played really well but fell up short at the end. Bynum, Gasol,and Kobe all had great games but the key factor in the end that there was nodefense played at all by the Lakeshow!

Games 4, 5, & 6 (@ Wizards,Pacers, 76ers) All were against team’s way under .500 and Lakers handled themall as they should have.

So 4 wins against garbage teams and 2 losses against good teams. What does thistell me? The Lakers have some work to do for sure.

Game 7 (@ Celtics) The big game atBoston as we all know. Kobe came through at the end as the Lakers come back andwin by a point! The huge win that also showed that the Lakers have some toughness in them and that they canplay against a great Boston team.

Game 8 (@ Grizzlies) The final gameof the road trip landed the Lakers in Memphis. The last two meetings in Memphisaround this time resulted in an injured Andrew Bynum. Regardless, I felt this gamewas definitely going to be a major let down game after that huge win in Boston.However, I thought Kobe wouldn’t let his team have a let down and make surethey play at a high level!

Unfortunately, Kobe and Artest were the only ones that played at a high level!Gasol did not show up the last 2 games of the series and Bynum came up huge inthe Boston game, but still can't play consistently, as he finishes the night withonly 5 pts!

You just can’t win a game with your two big men scoring only 15 pts. The funnything is Lakers only lost the game by 2! If others guys would have just steppedup, maybe this road trip would have been a success.

This 8-game road trip has shownme that Lakers are in need of some consistency.They’ve got some toughness for sure. They need to beat the good teams on theroad! If the Lakers cant beat the good teams now, how do they expect to winagainst them in the playoffs?

Lakers come back home this week for 2 games against very tough opponents. Firstthe Bobcats, (2/3, 7:30pm PT) and then the Nuggets roll into town (2/5, 7:30pmPT).
Lets see if these Lakers can come back after an unsuccessful road trip and getsome must needed wins at home!

PS: After these two home games, Lakers go back on the road Saturday night atPortland – and we all know how we play in Portland.

Finding Ways to Win: Kings Coming Together

2010-02-01T03:36:00.000-08:00

Coming off that crushing 5-1 loss at home by the San JoseSharks (1/19), the Kings went into their home game against the Sabres winnersof only 6 of their last 15, and proud owners of a midseason slump. It was inthat Buffalo game, however, that the Kings found a way to win: down 3-2 in the3rd period, forcing overtime, and winning 4-3 in the shootout.

It’s that “finding a way to win” stuff that has taken the Kings from theirmidseason slump of 6-9 to a 6-game win streak – including a franchise record5-game win streak on the road.

So awesome!

It wasn’t long ago at all that LA was flirting with 8th place – fallingout of playoff contention,on random nights, depending on the standings.

Now the Kings are sitting pretty in 5th place, only two points behindPhoenix for 2nd place in the Pacific.

So sweet!

It wasn’t easy either – ripping off 5 straight away from home – which makessitting at 5th feel even better.

The streak began in Detroit – where the Kings had only 1 win in the lastdecade. The Kings quickly found themselves down a couple of goals beforefighting back to a 3-2 victory. They had fought adversity just a couple of daysbefore and found a way to achieve only their 2nd victory at JoeLouis in ages.

All of a sudden the Kings looked much better than they had in the weeks prior.This is how good the Kings can play night in and night out. They began playingtough again.

It was that tough play that led them to pretty easy victories at Toronto (5-3)and Columbus (4-1).

However, it wasn’t long before adversity would find it’s way back to the Kings.

In Boston, down 2-1, it was Anze willing his team to tie the game up at two apiece. 90 shootout attempts later, Jarret Stoll scored the final blow on TimThomas. Once again, the Kings had found a way to pull it out in the end andsend themselves to New Jersey new owners of a 5-game win streak.

The only problem was that adversity had hopped on the same flight.

The Kings found themselves at the end of this road trip in the same positionthey began it: down 2-0 in a hostile environment – but if they could do it inDetroit, then they can win anywhere, right?

And win they did!

Michael Handzus made it interesting with under 30 seconds left in the 2nd period (McFlurries!) by scoring his 11th goal of the season. Surelythe Kings would take this newfound momentum into the locker room.

Unfortunately, they forget to bring it back out on the ice.

The Devils continued to harass the Kings in the 3rd period, butcouldn’t find a way past the stingy Jonathan Quick. It was Quick’s toughnessthat allowed the Kings to keep fighting. Surely enough, with under 2 minutes toplay, the Kings scored twice (Simmonds, Doughty) to go up 3-2 and seal the bestroad streak in franchise history.

It was a great ending to a troubling game, but once again the Kings found a wayto win – the key to this win streak that couldn’t come at a better time.

"You get five wins on the road at this time of the year with thedesperation that everyone is playing with and it's pretty remarkable the way wehave dug in. This game was a real good look at the kind of team we are startingto become, a lot of character, big heart, never gave up.”

Terry Murray’s right. His Kings are finding their identity slowly, but surely.

Good teams know how to fight off opponents while ahead. Great teams find waysto make water into wine.

Aussie Open Finals Kick Off 2010!

2010-01-29T04:41:00.000-08:00

If you’re a Tennis fiend, like myself, you’re ecstatic aboutthis weekend’s Australian Open finals. If you’ve never watched Tennis before,this would be a great weekend to start. I’ll tell you why the NFL Pro Bowldoesn’t have to bore you into next week!

Men’s Draw

What’s at stake:

Roger Federer, current world’s #1, is seeking to add to hisall-time record 15 major singles championships. Roger will be making hisall-time record 22^nd appearance in a Grand Slam final – his 18^thfinals appearance in his last 19 Slams.

There’s nothing left to prove for Roger, arguably the best to ever pick up aracket. He’s had a renowned career, which has seemed to lack consistentcompetition. However, he’s only 28, and still looks hungry for more – and whyshouldn’t he be? As long as there are still top-10 players looking for a fight,he’ll be glad to put one up.

That’s where Andy Murray comes in – the fiery, precocious 22-year-old Brit. Andy’sbeen playing the best tennis of his career this Aussie Open, only dropping aset in the semi’s against Marin Cilic. However, it’s no secret that Andy hashad his share of battles rising to the cream of the crop of the men’s game.

First, it was the British Media hounding on Andy’s every little mistake, onlyto blow him up and knock him back down again. That’s pretty ridiculous consideringAndy’s little success is the best a Brit has accomplished since Fred Perry inthe ‘30’s, literally. (Check below)

Then, it was Andy’s trouble on the court, often seemingunmotivated and tired. He lost his only Grand Slam finals appearance in 2008 atthe U.S. Open to, guess who, Roger Federer – shocker.

He complained after, abouthis route to the final, it being much more physical than Roger’s. However, thatwas then – this is now.

Roger Federer will be facing the toughest Andy Murray he’s ever seen. This AndyMurray is hungry for a championship and, most of all, respect. He’s also nottrying to take down Roger for a David beats Goliath win – he’s out there to overthrowthe king on his way to the throne of the men’s game. There won’t be any lack ofmotivation from Andy Murray any time soon, trust me.

Interesting Stats:

FEDERER
- 4-6 against Andy Murray all-time (1-0 in majors, 2-0 in last 6 months)
- Beat Andy Murray in 2008 U.S. Open final (6–2, 7–5,6–2)
- 22^nd Grand Slam finals appearance.
- Seeking 16^th major title/4^th Australian Open championship
- Seeking 40^th hard-court title. He trails only Andre Agassi (46).
- Was 22-years-old when he won his first Grand Slam in his 17^th GrandSlam appearance (2003-Wimbledon).

MURRAY
- 22-years-old in his 17^th Grand Slam appearance.
- 6-4 all-time record against Roger Federer, (0-1 in majors).
- Lost to Roger Federer in 2008 U.S. Open final (2-6, 5-7, 2-6).
- Became first British man to reach more than one Grand Slam final.
- Beat 3 seeded players en route to 2010 Australian Open final.

Women’s Draw
The best part of the weekend is that we’re blessed with two all-starmatchups. The women’s draw doesn’t lack any great stories either!

Current #1 Serena Williams is seeking her fifth AustralianOpen title. To do so, she will have to beat the world’s former #1 – 2004 winnerof the Aussie open – Justine Henin.

Serena Williams, arguably the toughest woman to play the game, is on a mission to destroy. So far, she's lost 1 set the entire tournament. She’s already won this year’sAustralian Open doubles championship; her 11^th career doubles GrandSlam. She’s as dominant as she’s ever played, but there’s one last roadblockstanding between her and a 12^th major title.

That roadblock would be the petite, but mighty former #1Justine Henin.

Key’s to the bout:
1. Never.
2. Ever.
3. Ever underestimate Justine Henin!

Justine, holder of 7 Grand Slam titles herself, is in her first finalappearance since retiring nearly two years ago.

Justine left the sport suddenly in May of 2008 while at the top of her's and the women’s game. Questions arose about whether she would ever come back or why it was she quit. However,one question is now answered: can she still compete at the highest level? Inonly her 2nd tournament back, I’d say the answer is: Hell yeah! It’s like shenever left!

Justine has pretty much cruised through this 2010 Aussie Open, including a 6-1,6-0 win in the semi’s over China’s Zheng Jie. It’s hard to call her theCinderella, as she’s done this so many times before, but she’s as focused asshe’s ever been, and will give Serena a good fight.

Interesting Stats:
WILLIAMS
- Win would give her 12 major titles, tied for most all-time among femaleAmericans (Billie Jean King - 12)
- Seeking her 5^th Australian Open title (2003, 2005, 2007, 2009)
- Has never lost an Australian Open final.
- 7-6 all-time against Justine Henin.

HENIN
- Seeking 8^th major title.
- Seeking her 2^nd Australian Open title (2004)
- Would become only the 2^nd female wildcard entry to win a Grand Slam (Clijsters– 2009 – U.S. Open)
- 6-7 all-time against Serena Williams

Goodbye Brett Favre: Thank you for the memories

2010-01-26T01:34:00.000-08:00

It couldn’tbe more obvious – or I could just be dead wrong (0-2 this weekend) – but Ibelieve Brett Favre’s interception in the final seconds of the NFC Championshipgame was the last pass of his hall of fame career.

It was hard for me to watch Brett throw that pick. It was like sitting throughan entire NFL Pro Bowl or someone telling me they’ve never watched “Dumb &Dumber.”

He wasamazing all year – no costly mistakes. 33 TD’s against only 7 picks, remember?

But it was in a pregame interview that I saw a Brett Favre I have yet to see –tired, both mentally and physically. His eyes didn't light up. He’s old – he’s been old – but he’s just nevershown it before.

Besides thedesire to go out on top, I believe Brett Favre’s desire to keep playing was justas much about proving anyone that didn’t believe in him wrong.

I think he shut everyone up by now. By “everyone”, I mean those who ever wentagainst his desire to keep playing.

I know many were just tired of the constantparade of “is he or isn’t he?” However, he did, and did great. He was the mainreason the Vikings did well. He’s the reason Aaron Rodgers is half the QB he istoday.

I’d love for anyone to go back in the modern history of sports (40 years) andfind an athlete who, at the age of 40, started 16 consecutive anything while beingthe best player on their team.

But Ibelieve this is finally it for Brett. He didn’t win a ring, but he left it allon the table. There was nothing he has to be ashamed about – not even that pick.

Five years from now, Brett will put on the jacket, and cry it up for America.He’ll probably apologize for things he should never apologize for, likethrowing those costly picks.

However, youdid nothing wrong Brett. Thank you for everything.

For a listof Brett Favre’s ridiculous NFL records and accomplishments click here.

ARTEST VS. ARIZA

2010-01-26T00:14:00.000-08:00

With Artest not coming through in big games, where he has to guard stars such as Carmello Anthony and Lebron James, Laker fans must be thinking about Trevor Ariza.

Last year, the Lake-Show swept the Cavs. This year? 0-2 and LeBron was unstoppable.

It's not that Ariza shut these stars down last year, but it seemed like he played a lot harder and got the job done most of the nights, right?

I mean he always made the clutch steals and 3's from the corner in very crucial moments. He helped the Lakers get a ring and I expected, as many Laker fans did, that he'd be back to fight for another.

Who wouldn't think that he'd be back? He didn't do anything in the first 6 years of his career. He comes to the Lakers in a trade and wins a ring his second year on the team.

However, Ariza thought, because of how he came through in the playoffs, that he should be paid a lot more. That was a questionable call for Mitch Kupchak because they're already are paying Kobe, Gasol, Bynum, and Odom a lot of money. I was upset with Ariza for asking for some more money, but he had a point.

Although, it shouldn't be about money, unfortunately it is for most athletes whether we like it or not. It's definitely a business. Every athlete should get paid on how they perform and most of the time it works out that way.

Anyway, obviously we got Artest: a guy who has proved throughout his career that he is one of the best defenders in the game and that he can beat people up on and off the court. He's a clown for sure, but a guy who I thought would fit because the Lakers need a tough guy on this team other than Kobe.

Artest is the guy for this. Right now he's averaging 11 pts, 3.4 ast, and 4.8 reb, but I could care less about his points per game average. It's all about playing defense and hitting big shots when needed.

He hasn't done much of that this year, even though he's had his moments. He needs to be more consistent and actually come up big in big games. So far, the Lakers have not come up big and won these big games, especially on the road. It's not all Artest's fault, but he did not shutdown the big stars of the team like we all expect him to. Don't get me wrong its tough to stop a Lebron James and a Carmelo Anthony, but we expect them to be contained.

I heard the issue come up today on ESPN radio and I thought I would talk about it. For all you Laker fans, we will be alright. Playoffs is when it really matters. We just have to believe in the guy because he's shut down stars his whole career. If he can stay healthy, and out of trouble, it's all gravy for the Lake Show.

So no, I'm not upset about having Artest instead of Ariza. Besides, it's only been half of the season. Artest is only going to improve and get used to playing with these Lakers. He will step up when it counts, and if he does, expect a ring come June!

Blatz out!

NFL CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND IS HERE!!!

2010-01-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

It's been a decently fun ride so far in this years playoffs.

The Cowboys stunk it up once again proving that they're close, but still not ready to be a consistent Super Bowl contender.

The Jets, led by rookies Mark Sanchez and Shonne Greene, also showed that they are for real by shocking the Chargers in dramatic fashion on the road. The Bolts look in trouble, failing after such a fantastic season.

The Ravens, well, did what they do best -- lose in the playoffs every year.

The Cards showed that maybe they were just a really hot team last year -- not a legitimate contender.

This weekend has the potential to be a great one. There are so many great story lines.

Last week:
E: 3-1 (Cardinals)
J: 3-1 (Cowboys)

AFC Championship
Jets @ Colts

Does anyone remember a Super Bowl winning team, led by a great defense, yet had a young QB and a mediocre offense? Weren't they from New York? Didn't they beat a team that was 18-0?

The Jets offense is inconsistent, full of runs, but can do just enough damage at the worst time possible. The Jets also have the league's top defense, led by CB Darrelle Revis and LB Bart Scott. They're too dangerous for words -- or are they? They sneak up on you. They like playing the role of underdog. That all seems dangerous to me.

Well, Eli Manning was that young QB on that Super Bowl winning team, brother of Colts QB Peyton Manning. Sigh, where do we start with Peyton?

One of the best QB's to ever pick up a football... His numbers are ridiculous... More MVP's than anyone else, including this year... Best QB of the decade... Four thousand yards ever year... but wait right there.

The NFL decade is nearly over, and Peyton does have a ring -- but Brady has three. Does it matter? Well, no, not really... but sort of. Peyton doesn't need this ring for anything but personal satisfaction. However, it would add a hell of a lot to the argument of the Colts being better than the Pats and Peyton better than Tom.

Let's face it, the Colts, on paper, aren't that great, but don't tell them that. They play like champions, but will it be enough? They're facing a really tough defense, but Peyton laughs in the face of danger... or audibles in the face of danger at least.

E: (Colts over Jets) Every analyst this weekend loves the Colts to win outright against the Jets. I also think the Colts will win but not outright and I'm not even that confident about this pick. The Jets play great defense to contain Manning and they can run the ball to keep Manning off the field. However, the Colts are going to score and I don't think the Jets can match that. The Colts defense is so under-rated and no one gives them credit. So I think they play great defense to win this game and Manning will score enough points to beat these Jets. 21-17 Colts!

J: (Jets over Colts) I'm not feeling good about this pick, but the Jets D might just take them all the way.

NFC Championship
What a game this is going to be! Two great Qb's with Favre and Brees. I would love to see both in the Superbowl because they are both great to watch. I think they both deserve a Superbowl ring because they are both class guys and they perform year after year. This should be a high scoring game with the two best NFC offenses in the league all year long. I mean this is the game we all have been waiting for the two best teams in the NFC battling out to go to the Superbowl! This is going to be epic and it sucks that there has to be a loser in this game. Does any remember Adrian Peterson? The best RB in the league and the most dominate Rb for the last 3 years. Well it's crazy how last year, that's all the Vikings were they were the Min Peterson's but now with Favre, Peterson is barely ever talked about. That's the scary thing because after the Saints have to deal with Favre-Rice, Harvin, and Berrian. They still have to shutdown the best running back in the league. He is the X-factor in this game and I think if he has a big day the Vikes go to the Superbowl!

Can Bree's still have a big day with Jared Allen giving him pressure?

Will Reggie Bush be effective like he was last week?

Will Favre and Rice have a field day again and go for the Hatrick?

Peterson is my X-factor. Who is yours?

We all want to see Favre in the Superbowl come now Brett!!!

Will the crowd noise mess get in the Vikings head?

Who will have a bigger day Brees and Company? Or Favre and Company?

To me if no pressure on Favre then its game over! Because I know for a fact Brees will be pressured a lot by Jared Allen.

Enjoy this epic battle and I know for a fact that this will be one of the best games of the year!

Vikings @ Saints
E: (Vikings over Saints) I got to go with Favre and company in this game. I'm not even that confident about this pick either. I think it's because I want Favre to be in the Superbowl that gives me that advantage of taking these Vikings. However, it's Peterson who will be the deciding factor in this game.If not him then Allen will be the deciding factor. So if Peterson and Allen don't come through today then the Saints win outright! Enjoy watching this shootout and the Final score- Vikes 31- Saints 28. Root for my boy Sidney Rice and yes he will have a big day!

J: (Vikings over Saints) Brett Favre is the reason I started watching football. Other than rooting for them, I believe they're playing incredible football. They just dismantled a pretty decent, but inconsistent Cowboys squad, even running up the score on them. The Saints are great, don't get me wrong. They play with a fire and love for a city that needs it the most. However, I believe Brett Favre, 40, will play against the man who seems to be the future Brett Favre, in terms of love and fun for the game of football, Mark Sanchez.

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No matter what the results are on Sunday, the Super Bowl is primed to have great story lines.

On the AFC side, you will either have one of the greatest QB's ever playing for another chance at a title, or a young rookie trying to lead his team to something that has never been done before.

On the NFC side, it will either be Brett Favre getting one last chance to go out on top, or Drew Brees getting one shot to put a city so heartbroken back on the map.

Have fun watching!

2010 NFL DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

2010-01-16T02:04:00.000-08:00

Last week was nuts. Pure chaos. Nothing went according to plan.

Did you think Mark Sanchez would set a rookie playoff record? Did you think the Jets would handle the Bengals in back-to-back weeks? Mark Sanchez was efficient and proved to be the better QB on the field against the man he used to be the water boy for, Carson Palmer.

How about the Patriots -- who haven't lost a game in Foxboro since like '72 -- did you think they would get beat embarrassed like they did? The Ravens showed a lot of guts by finally beating the Pats. They had been about 0-36 before last weekend.

Can't forget about the Cowboys! They FINALLY won a playoff game -- first since Nixon took office. Romo looked fantastic and they're playing the best ball I've seen during the Romo era. As for the Eagles, well, what more did they need? They have a great team, but no closers.

Lastly, that Packer/Cardinals game... where do we begin? Let's just end it with saying the Cards are definitely for real once again, and so is Aaron Rodgers. I know there are no moral victories in pro sports, but I think the loyal fans of Green Bay can finally feel good about their amazing, YOUNG new quarterback. Brett who?!

Let's take a look at this weekends matchups!

Last Week:
E: 1-3
J: 3-1

Cardinals @ Saints
E: (Cards over Saints) What a game this is going to be. I think its going to be like a 45-42 game and it will most likely be the most exciting one of the 4 this weekend. I like the Cards because Warner is money in playoffs and I don't think the Saints defense can stop him, Fitz and Breaston. Warner is a winner and he gets it done in the playoffs. He just put up 50 points against one of the top defenses in the league last week! Now he gets to face a banged up secondary who isn't really good at all. I mean don't get me wrong Cards won't stop the Saints offense either but I think Warner comes through and scores more then Brees tomorrow. How they going to cover Fitz? Charles Woodson couldn't even contain Fitz. Good luck defenses tomorrow its going to be a rough day for the secondary!
J: (Saints over Cards) Drew Brees and the Saints ended the season on a sour note. They were definitely trying their hardest to go undefeated and failed miserably. However, they still have a great team. To me, playoffs have always been more about who's playing their best ball at the right time -- that would be the Cards. However, the Saints offense is much more dynamic and effective than Green Bay's, which apparently Arizona couldn't stop last week. I think it'll be a shoot out, but not nearly as great as last weeks. I'm not ready to pick the Saints as my Super Bowl favorite or anything, but they do get a playoff win at home -- which is huge for them.

Cowboys @ Vikings

E: (Vikings over Cowboys) The Cowboys have shown me in the last weeks that they are true contenders! I mean they can do it all! Rush the passer, great secondary, throw the ball, and run the ball. They are great and Romo is even greater. I mean hes lights out right now and nothing is stopping him from going to the Superbowl! Sorry though Cowboys, Vikings are going to ruin it for you guys on Sunday Morning. Brett Favre will get it done in the playoffs. This offense is to good! Peterson, my boy Rice, Harvin, and Berrian. To much talent for the Cowboys to deal with. I think its going to be really close and Vikings will come out on top 24-21.

J: (Cowboys over Vikings) I want Favre to win. I need to see him win -- but unfortunately it's not going to happen. I don't believe the Cowboys have some spell on Brett Favre, but they are playing much better football as of late. They seem driven, and I'm not sure that Vikings have a chance to stop them. This game will be decently close, but the Vikings' offense will sputter enough to give the Cowboys their second consecutive playoff victory.

Jets @ Chargers

E: (Jets over Bolts) This is also my bold pick this weekend. Chargers are awesome and the hottest team in the league right now! They have won 11 straight games and just destroying a lot of teams during this streak. They're offense is unstoppable! Rivers is a machine and finds his WR's and TE's all over the field. However, when you play against the number 1 defense things won't be so easy for Rivers and company come Sunday. Revis will shut down the big play guy Vincent Jackson and Bart Scott will contain Antonio Gates. Chargers won't be able to run the ball and they haven't all year anyways. Jets are playing great ball and they are a team that can shock these Chargers. They can run the ball and play great defense. They will keep Rivers off the field by running all over Chargers and then when Chargers offense gets on the field Revis and company will contain them. I think this game will be 21-17 Jets in a huge upset win!

J: (Jets over Bolts) You can call this my bold pick of the week. The Chargers have been arguably the best team in the NFL the last 13 weeks of the season. They beat up on most of the teams they've played and have a pretty good balance on both sides of the ball. They have an amazing wideout in Vincent Jackson (Pro Bowl snub). However, the Jets seem more motivated. They have an efficient QB when they limit his passing and a run game that can't be stopped. Will this matter? Probably not. Will the Jets actually win? Probably not. Regardless, I'm going with my gut, which is usually only 50% correct at best.

Ravens @ Colts

E: (Colts over Ravens) I think this will be a blowout tomorrow for some reason. Colts have been playing bad but Manning was barely even playing. They might look a little rusty at first but then when Manning starts clicking it's a done deal tomorrow night. Ravens D is good but not great and I think there secondary isn't good, besides my boy Ed Reed but he can't cover the whole field. Manning will pick apart the secondary and Flacco won't be able to match him. Especially when Ravens are a running team and if behind real early in this game then this messes up the whole game plan for the Ravens because they won't try to run the ball and that's what they are great at.

J: (Colts over Ravens) Colts over Ravens. Colts over Ravens. It's hard to envision that happening. The Ravens are coming off a huge playoff win in New England. The Ravens D is definitely not scared of Peyton Manning just like Peyton ain't afraid of no Ray Lewis. I honestly can't see the Colts winning this game at all, but I can't pick against Peyton Manning -- I just can't. The Colts' rush offense was nearly last in the league this year. I'm surprised Peyton's arm hasn't fallen off. Also, the Colts have a good D that can easily handle the Ravens inconsistent offense. Colts over Ravens... right?

NFL Wildcard Weekend Picks

2010-01-12T00:24:00.001-08:00