10 Awesome Things That Happened This Weekend (10/10-10/13)

10. I Turn 29 Years Old

            I look forward to celebrating my 29^th for the next seventy years.

9. Joe Flacco Chucks Five First Half Touchdowns

            Reportedly, Flacco’s touchdowns still counted for 20 points in standard fantasy football leagues despite the fact he threw them against the hapless Buccaneers.

8. Terminus Already Blew Up
            Kudos to the folks running “The Walking Dead’ for not leaving our heroes captive with a bunch of hipster cannibals.

7. Baylor Outguns TCU
            In a game where the final score was 61-58, I guess TCU shouldn’t of felt too safe with a 24 point lead.

6. NASCAR Fight!

            Keselowski and Kenseth are two of our favorite drivers here in the Muir household, so this fight wasn’t as satisfying for us as the typical NASCAR brawl.

           

5. Mississippi State Defeats Auburn, Claims Top Spot in AP Poll

4. Royals Grab 2-0 Lead Over Baltimore

            Kansas City is halfway to a trip to the World Series, and the state of Mississippi rules college football. We’re buying tons of canned goods and bottled water on our next grocery run.

           

3. Aaron Rodgers Does a Marino Impression, Leads Last Gasp Victory Over Miami

            You can’t fall for the play that your most famous quarterback in franchise history invented. Shame on the Dolphins.         

2. Kolten Wong Smashes Walk Off Dinger, Evens Series With Giants

            It was a nice moment for Mr. Wong, who infamously was picked off to end a World Series game last year against Boston.

1. Dallas Wins at Seattle

            Short of Tony Romo and DeMarco Murray showing up at my front door with a lifetime supply of cash, there’s really nothing else those two dudes could’ve done to make my birthday any better. 

2014 AFC North Preview

4. Pittsburgh Steelers

2013 Record = 8-8, Second in AFC North, Missed Playoffs

2014 Schedule = Browns, @ Ravens, @ Panthers, Buccaneers, @ Jaguars, @ Browns, Texans, Colts, Ravens, @ Jets, @ Titans, BYE, Saints, @ Bengals, @ Falcons, Chiefs, Bengals

Blue Chippers = None

High Quality Players = QB Ben Roethlisberger, WR Antonio Brown, SS Troy Polamalu
Solid Contributors = WR Lance Moore, LG Ramon Foster, C Maurkice Pouncey, RG David DeCastro, DE Cameron Heyward, MLB Lawrence Timmons, OLB Jason Worilds
Impact Rookies = MLB Ryan Shazier (1-15, Ohio State), DE Stephon Tuitt (2-46, Notre Dame)

Good News = Pittsburgh has solidified the middle of it’s offensive line.

Bad News = Ike Taylor is beyond washed up.

Outlook = The Steelers are desperately in need of a full roster reboot, but the franchise is still committed to veterans who delivered two Super Bowl titles. With all that has been accomplished by Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu, you can’t completely fault them. Big Ben was still hit a lot in 2013 (mostly due to miserable play from his offensive tackles), but at least there was some semblance of pass protection for him. A greater commitment to the running game would go a long way in helping, as better balance would keep Roethlisberger upright. Le’Veon Bell will be given the first crack at full-time duty, but free agent acquisition LeGarrette Blount was brought in to push him. Antonio Brown had a massive breakout campaign, and is set up once again for another elite fantasy season. Lance Moore was brought in to fill the chain moving void left by Emmanuel Sanders, and Markus Wheaton will be given every opportunity in his sophomore season to make an impact. A full season from Heath Miller would go a long way in solidifying the Steelers passing game.

            Defensively is where Pittsburgh’s real problems are, as there defense is filled with either players past their primes or youngsters that haven’t reached their potential yet. Troy Polamalu caused a lot of havoc last year with 5 forced fumbles, but his ball-playing skills are virtually non-existent. Pittsburgh treats Ike Taylor like he’s still as shut-down corner, which is either an extreme case of denial or desperation. Jason Worilds and Cameron Heyward both need to raise their games to return the Steelers defense to elite status.

Prediction = This is the year the Steelers wheels really fall off. Look for a full rebuild to begin in 2015. 4-12



3. Cleveland Browns

2013 Record = 4-12, Last in AFC North, Missed Playoffs
2014 Schedule = @ Steelers, Saints, Ravens, BYE, @ Titans, Steelers, @ Jaguars, Raiders, Buccaneers, @ Bengals, Texans, @ Falcons, @ Bills, Colts, Bengals, @ Panthers, @ Ravens

Blue Chippers = WR Josh Gordon (sigh), LT Joe Thomas

High Quality Players = C Alex Mack, MLB Karlos Dansby, CB Joe Haden, SS Donte Whitner
Solid Contributors = TE Jordan Cameron, OLB Jabaal Sheard
Impact Rookies = CB Justin Gilbert (1-8, Oklahoma State), QB Johnny Fucking Football (1-22, Texas A&M), RG Joel Bitonio (2-35, Nevada)

Good News = No other team crushed the draft this year like the Cleveland Browns.

Bad News = Josh Gordon really likes marijuana.

Outlook = Since returning to the NFL in 1999, there hasn’t been a more consistently dysfunctional franchise than the Cleveland Browns (remember the Raiders actually won the AFC in 2002). 2014 is yet another season where the team features a new general manager (no love for Mike Lombardi, even after the Trent Richardson heist), a new Head Coach, and a new Week 1 quarterback. We’d be much higher (pun intended!) on Cleveland’s chances at sleeper status if it wasn’t for Josh Gordon. Gordon tested positive for marijuana, and since he’s a repeat offender, he could miss the entire season (it’s too bad he didn’t just beat the shit out of his fiancée like Ray Rice did, that would’ve only cost him two games. Good work Roger Goodell). Gordon was the MVP of all three of my fantasy teams last year, so No Credentials will dearly miss him. Without Gordon, Cleveland’s wide receivers are a collection of misfit toys. Earl Bennett is a decent fourth receiver, and I think Miles Austin and Nate Burleson already tore their hamstrings. Jordan Cameron will be the most reliable receiver from the tight end position, and it’s not unrealistic for him to be the second most valuable tight end in fantasy behind Jimmy Graham, regardless of which quarterback plays. Brian Hoyer was just named the starter today, but whether due to injury or poor performance, we expect to see Johnny Manziel by Week 10.

            Cleveland was actually a top-10 defensive unit last year, and with the addition of Justin Gilbert and Donte Whitner to the secondary, should continue to be the strength of the team. The secondary has a chance to be among the five best in THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE. The Browns only face one top-10 offense from 2013 this season, so there is a chance they can steal some low scoring ball games.

Prediction = Barring a miracle Josh Gordon ruling that gets him on the field in October, Cleveland’s offense is going to be a problem, but at least a favorable schedule gives them a chance to sniff .500. 6-10



2. Baltimore Ravens

2013 Record = 8-8, Third in AFC North, Missed Playoffs

2014 Schedule = Bengals, Steelers, @ Browns, Panthers, @ Colts, @ Buccaneers, Falcons, @ Bengals, @ Steelers, Titans, BYE, @ Saints, Chargers, @ Dolphins, Jaguars, @ Texans, Browns

Blue Chippers = None

High Quality Players = RG Marshal Yanda, OLB Elvis Dumervil, CB Lardarius Webb
Solid Contributors = WR Torrey Smith, WR Steve Smith, TE Dennis Pitta, LT Eugene Monroe, DE Terrell Suggs, DT Haloti Ngata
Impact Rookies = MLB C.J. Mosley (1-17, Alabama), DT Timmy Jernigan (2-48, Florida State), FS Terrance Brooks (3-79, Florida State)

Good News = The offensive line can’t play any worse than they did last year.

Bad News = How much more money do they owe Joe Flacco again?

Outlook = It’s hard to believe that a year ago at this team the Ravens were the defending Super Bowl champions after their mediocre 2013 campaign. The offense was abysmal, finishing the year as the fourth worst unit in football. Most of those troubles can be attributed to dreadful offensive line play. Joe Flacco was under constant duress, and whomever he handed the ball off too had a hard time just getting 3 yards per carry. The hiring of Gary Kubiak as offensive coordinator should go along way in addressing those issues, as his zone-blocking scheme was effective in both Denver and Houston for many years. Eugene Monroe also gets a full off-season in the Ravens system after being acquired midseason last year from Jacksonville. Ray Rice will miss the first two games due to suspension, so Bernard Pierce will have a chance to seize a sizable workload. Pierce could be a better fit for Kubiak’s blocking schemes. Torrey Smith averaged over 17 yards per catch last year, and with better pass protection could see an up tick in usage. Steve Smith was brought in for the other starting spot, and Baltimore is looking for the same value out of him that they got from Anquan Boldin during their Super Bowl run. Dennis Pitta is Joe Flacco’s security blanket, and a full season from him would do wonders on third down.

            Even with younger players replacing veterans from the Super Bowl team and a sputtering offense, the defense nearly cracked the top-10 in total yards allowed. For the Ravens to return to the level of play from their hey-day, they will need to generate more negative plays. C.J. Mosley looks like the next in a long line of great Baltimore linebackers. Jimmy Smith was a first round pick in 2011, and this might be his last chance to play to his potential before Baltimore looks for another option at cornerback. Terrance Brooks was a steal in the third round, and projects to be an immediate starter.

Prediction = The offense will improve enough to keep the defense off the field more, and return the Ravens to playoff contention. 9-7

1. Cincinnati Bengals

2013 Record = 11-5, AFC North Champions, Lost AFC Wildcard Game

2014 Schedule = @ Ravens, Falcons, Titans, BYE, @ Patriots, Panthers, @ Colts, Ravens, Jaguars, Browns, @ Saints, @ Texans, @ Buccaneers, Steelers, @ Browns, Broncos, @ Steelers

Blue Chippers = LT Andrew Whitworth, DT Geno Atkins

High Quality Players = WR A.J. Green, OLB Vontaze Burfict
Solid Contributors = HB Giovanni Bernard, WR Marvin Jones, RG Kevin Zeitler, RT Andre Smith, DE Carlos Dunlap, CB Leon Hall, CB Adam Jones, FS Reggie Nelson
Impact Rookies = CB Darqueze Dennard (1-24, Michigan State)

Good News = Giovanni Bernard will be the feature back.

Bad News = Andy Dalton is still slated to be their quarterback if they have to play playoff games.

Outlook = Cincinnati has assembled arguably the deepest all around roster in the NFL, with talent at all the skill positions, a solid  offensive line, and a top-5 defense. Expanded workloads for Giovanni Bernard and Marvin Jones will take some defensive attention away from A.J. Green, and should propel the Bengals to even greater heights. The only question is the red head under center. Andy Dalton has been solid during his first three seasons during the regular season. He’s won 30 games in his pro career, and last year tossed a career high 33 touchdowns. Unfortunately, he’s been so atrocious in his three career playoff games, even Tony Romo said, “Man this guy sucks in January” (EDITORS NOTE: Romo didn’t actually say that, but he should’ve). This year boils down to whether or not Dalton delivers the goods in the playoffs. The roster is vastly superior to the rest of the AFC North, so a division title is virtually assured. Dalton only needs to win one elimination game to quiet critics of the mammoth extension he inked this season.

Prediction = We’re guessing the Bengals win 11 games again before Dalton shits his pants again in the playoffs. Is it too early to wager on this? 11-5 

Click here to read about the AFC East

Click here to read about the NFC East
Click here to read about the AFC South
Click here to read about the NFC South
Click here to read about the NFC North
Click here to read about the AFC West

Ravens-Broncos Pick

Baltimore Ravens (+7.5) @ Denver Broncos
Thursday, 8:30pm, NBC

     If Von Miller was slated to play, I'd be all over Denver winning by double digits. Without him though, Joe Flacco will have all day to throw. I won't sign off on the Ravens winning, but expect a high scoring game that stays within a touchdown when it's all said and done.

Ravens (+7.5) over BRONCOS

2013 AFC North Preview

         We turn our attention to the AFC North, a.k.a. the only division that might be worse than the AFC East.

4. Cleveland Browns

 

2012 Record = 5-11, fourth in AFC North

2013 Schedule = Dolphins, @ Ravens, @ Vikings, Bengals, Bills, Lions, @ Packers, @ Chiefs, Ravens, BYE, @ Bengals, Steelers, Jaguars, @ Patriots, Bears, @ Jets, @ Steelers

Franchise Players = RB Trent Richardson, LT Joe Thomas, C Alex Mack, CB Joe Haden

Supporting Cast = WR Josh Gordon, LG Jason Pinkston, DE Ahtyba Rubin, DT Phil Taylor, MLB D’Qwell Jackson, OLB Paul Kruger, SS T.J. Ward
Notable Rookies = OLB Barkevious Mingo (LSU, 1-6), CB Leon McFadden (San Diego St., 3-68)

Offensive Outlook = It feels like a waste of time talking about an offense who’s second year quarterback is 29-years old, but in the interest of maintaining continuity, we’ll do it anyway. Trent Richardson is the centerpiece of the offense, and with Norv Turner taking over as offensive coordinator, Richardson will be sure to see a massive workload. Injuries have already hit the offensive line, so that is a concern for Richardson’s overall production. Cleveland has an interesting (that’s a better adjective than inexperienced) group of receivers that bring different skill sets to the table. Josh Gordon established himself as a quality deep threat, and is the clear #1 receiver. Greg Little has shown flashes as a third down target, but doesn’t utilize his size enough in the red zone. Davone Bess was acquired in a trade with Miami and figures to be heavily targeted on third down. Travis Benjamin is another speedy receiver who can work out of the slot, and tight end Jordan Cameron is a deep fantasy sleeper. An average quarterback could utilize all of these weapons, but unfortunately Brandon Weeden is still on top of the depth chart. Weeden. Weeden has a big arm, but isn’t effective enough when he’s forced to his second or third read.
Defensive Outlook = Cleveland’s run defense was solid, but it’s secondary play was abysmal. Part of their issues have to do with Joe Haden missing five games last season (four of them because of a suspension). Haden has the skills to be a top-5 corner in THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE, but needs to make more plays. Paul Kruger (the leader in sacks for the Super Bowl champions last year) and rookie Barkevious Mingo have been brought in to bolster a pass rush that was virtually non-existent last year. Upping the quarterback pressure will go along way in improving the pass defense. 

Ceiling = 7-9 

Floor = 2-14
Prediction = 4-12
            Cleveland has assembled some nice young pieces, but until it has a solid quarterback prospect in the fold, there’s littler reason for optimism.
 

3. Pittsburgh Steelers

 

2012 Record = 8-8, third in AFC North

2013 Schedule = Titans, @ Bengals, Bears, @ Vikings, BYE, @ Jets, Ravens, @ Raiders, @ Patriots, Bills, Lions, @ Browns, @ Ravens, Dolphins, Bengals, @ Packers, Browns

Franchise Players = QB Ben Roethlisberger, C Maurkice Pouncey, SS Troy Polamalu

Supporting Cast = WR Antonio Brown, TE Heath Miller (on PUP list through Week 6), DE Brett Keisel, MLB Lawrence Timmons, MLB Larry Foote, OLD LaMarr Woodley, OLB Jason Worilds, CB Ike Taylor, FS Ryan Clark
Notable Rookies = OLB Jarvis Jones (Georgia, 1-17), RB Le’Veon Bell (Michigan St., 2-48), WR Markus Wheaton (Oregon St., 3-79), QB Landry Jones (Oklahoma, 4-115)

Offensive Outlook = On paper, Pittsburgh suffered the biggest free agent defection of the off-season with the loss of Mike Wallace. He was a field stretching threat that demanded attention on every snap. However, the Steelers do have some players with the potential to at least partially fill the void. Antonio Brown dealt with nagging injuries throughout the 2012 season, but a return to health could lead to Reggie Wayne like production for him. Emmanuel Sanders is slated to get the first crack to fill the deep threat role, but he hasn’t demonstrated in the past that he’s capable of doing it. Pittsburgh might eventually turn to third round pick Markus Wheaton, who on paper looks like a Mike Wallace clone. Pittsburgh’s running game was a mess that season, but it was hard to pinpoint if that had to with the runningbacks, the offensive line, or both groups. Second rounder Le’Veon Bell had a leg up to get the starting tailback gig, and he would’ve represented a massive upgrade over Jonathan Dwyer. Unfortunately, he’s now out for six to eight weeks. David DeCastro, last year’s first round pick, looks to rebound from a 2012 that was cut way to short by injury. He has the potential to form one of the best interior line duos with center Maurkice Pouncey. All of these adjustments will ultimately impact the effectiveness of Ben Roethlisberger. It’s unclear how much more of a beating Big Ben can take, so improved offensive line play is paramount to Pittsburgh’s chances of making the playoffs.

Defensive Outlook = Pittsburgh led the league in total defense last year, only allowing 275.8 yards per game. Unfortunately, the Steelers were unable to force turnovers. For the defense to return to the level of its last Super Bowl year in 2008-09, they will need to create game changing plays. The linebacking core is still the strength of the team, with arguably as much depth as any other team. LaMarr Woodley, Jason Worilds, and Jarvis Jones are three dynamic outside linebackers that can create havoc for opposing quarterbacks. If Cortez Allen continues to make strides, Pittsburgh will have the best cornerback duo in the division. They already have the best safety duo, even with Troy Polamalu losing a step. The biggest question mark for the Steelers defense is nose tackle. Casey Hampton has manned that position for years, but this year he will be replaced by Steve McClendon. McClendon doesn’t have the size that is normally required for a 3-4 end, so hopefully for Pittsburgh fans he’s the second coming of Jay Ratliff.

Ceiling = 12-4

Floor = 5-11
Prediction = 7-9
            Pittsburgh is in a state of transition, so it’s reasonable to expect growing pains. Look for another mediocre season before a return to Super Bowl contention in 2014.
 

2. Baltimore Ravens

 

2012 Record = 10-6, first in AFC North

2013 Schedule = @ Broncos, Browns, Texans, @ Bills, @ Dolphins, Packers, @ Steelers, BYE, @ Browns, Bengals, @ Bears, Jets, Steelers, Vikings, @ Lions, Patriots, @ Bengals

Franchise Players = QB Joe Flacco, RB Ray Rice, RG Marshal Yanda, DE Haloti Ngata, OLB Terrell Suggs

Supporting Cast = WR Torrey Smith, WR/KR Jacoby Jones, TE Dennis Pitta (Out for the season with a hip injury), RT Michael Oher, OLB Elvis Dumervil, CB Lardarius Webb, K Justin Tucker
Notable Rookies = SS Matt Elam (Florida, 1-32), OLB Arthur Brown (Kansas St., 2-56)

Offensive Outlook = It’s hard to remember a defending Super Bowl champion that lost so many key players, but at least offensively the most important ones return. Joe Flacco played like a Greek God of quarterbacking last postseason, but it’s hard to forecast that effort continuing into the regular season. He’s solid, but the offense is at its best when it’s centered on Ray Rice. Rice is still a dynamic player (view his epic fourth and 28 conversion last year against San Diego as proof) that can carry an offense. Bernard Pierce made great impressions in a reserve role, and could be in line for increased carries. With the losses of Anquan Boldin and Dennis Pitta, Torrey Smith will have to shoulder a heavier workload. He’s an elite route runner, which gives him a chance to transition from deep threat to primary receiver. Who ends up getting receptions other than Ray Rice or Smith is anyone’s guess.

Defensive Outlook = When’s the last time a defense lost two first ballot Hall of Famers in the same off-season? Sure Ray Lewis would probably have been suspended for steroids probably have lost a step if he came back, and Ed Reed has lost some of his range, but these were both emotional leaders of the Ravens defense for a long time. Add in the losses of Paul Kruger and Dannell Ellerbe, and you appear to have a dramatic drop in talent on the Ravens defense. Fortunately, the cupboard isn’t bare. Terrell Suggs should be back close to full strength, and Chris Canty and Marcus Spears have been added to bolster the run defense. Terrance Cody and Haloti Ngata are also still in the fold. Elvis Dumervil has been added and will fill the void left by Kruger. He’s a superior pass rusher, but isn’t the same all around defender. Jameel McClain will start in place of Ray Lewis. Physically there won’t be a drop off (throw out the deer antler fueled playoff run for Lewis), but it’ll hard to quantify what the drop off in leadership will do to the defense. Lardarius Webb will make a comeback from a torn ACL, which will give Baltimore a shutdown corner.

Ceiling = 13-3

Floor = 6-10
Prediction = 9-7
            It would be easy to predict a significant drop-off because of the players who won’t be returning, and just as easy to predict another Super Bowl contending run because they are the Ravens and that’s what they do. We’ll predict that they’ll scuffle a bit early before rounding into form by December.      
 

1. Cincinnati Bengals

 

2012 Record = 10-6, second in AFC North 

2013 Schedule = @ Bears, Steelers, Packers, @ Browns, Patriots, @ Bills, @ Lions, Jets, @ Dolphins, @ Ravens, Browns, BYE, @ Chargers, Colts, @ Steelers, Vikings, Ravens

Franchise Players = WR A.J. Green, LT Andrew Whitworth, DT Geno Atkins

Supporting Cast = QB Andy Dalton, RB Ben-Jarvus Green-Ellis, TE Jermaine Gresham, RG Kevin Zeitler, DT Domata Peko, DE Michael Johnson, MLB Rey Maualuga, OLB James Harrison, OLB Vontaze Burfict, CB Leon Hall, FS Reggie Nelson, P Kevin Huber
Notable Rookies = TE Tyler Eifert (Notre Dame, 1-21), RB Giovani Bernard (North Carolina, 2-37), DE Margus Hunt (Southern Methodist, 2-53)

Offensive Outlook = We’re pretty sure the Cincinnati Bengals are the first team since the merger to make the playoffs two straight seasons with a redheaded quarterback. Unfortunately, each playoff appearance ended with a beating in Houston. Andy Dalton has chemistry with A.J. Green (it would be hard for any NFL caliber quarterback to not be successful throwing the ball to him), but he hasn’t been effective enough when he’s forced to his second or third read. Green is a top-5 wide receiver who demands double coverage on every play. The Bengals attempted to ease the pressure on Green by adding Tyler Eifert in the first round. Along with Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati will now have the best tight end duo in THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE. “The Firm” is still penciled in as the starting runningback, but it will be hard for Ben-Jarvus Green-Ellis to not cede carries to talented rookie Giovani Bernard. If Bernard gets enough touches, he’s a solid bet for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Much like the rest of the offense (with the exception of Green), the offensive line is average. 

Defensive Outlook = There weren’t many defenses stronger down the stretch last season than the one employed by Cincinnati. Including their playoff loss to Houston, Cincinnati didn’t allow more than 20 points over their final nine games. Defensive tackle Geno Atkins was at the center of it, generating 12.5 sacks and providing stout run defense. Domata Peko and Michael Johnson were fantastic complimentary pieces to Atkins along the defensive line. Cincinnati struck gold last season with undrafted free agent Vontaze Burfict, who shockingly led the Bengals in tackles a season ago. The secondary will get a boost from having a fully healthy Leon Hall at corner from the start of Week 1. He was recovering from an ACL tear and wasn’t playing up to his usual standards until the final month of the season.

Ceiling = 14-2

Floor = 8-8
Prediction = 11-5
            We’re counting on a breakout from Bernard, and a consistent season of top-5 defense. The Bengals mediocre quarterback won’t bite them in the ass until the playoffs.
 

Click here to read about the AFC East

Click here to read about the AFC South
Click here to read about the NFC East
Click here to read about the NFC South

10 Awesome Things That Happened This Weekend (3/1-3/3)

10. Kyle Busch Dominates Nationwide Race at Phoenix
            Because you know, it’s a good thing when an established Sprint Cup driver dominates a second tier race.

9. Rick Finds Morgan on “The Walking Dead”

            Unfortunately, Morgan was off his rocker.

8. Real Madrid Knocks Off Barcelona For the Second Time in a Week

            Surprisingly, pretty boy Cristiano Ronaldo actually got the better of Lionel Messi for a change.

7. Joe Flacco Inks Largest Contract in NFL History

            Not to take away from Flacco, who had an incredible postseason, but I could think of 12 to 15 quarterbacks I’d rather have starting for my team instead of him next season.

6. Blackhawks Extend Point Streak to 22 Straight Games

            I don’t think we’ve seen a hockey team play this well since the late-90s edition of the Detroit Red Wings.

5. Magic Johnson Offers Lebron James $1 Million if He Wins Dunk Contest
            No Credentials has been suggesting that cash should be used as the primary motivator for all exhibition events involving professional athletes, so kudos to Magic Johnson for making the offer.

4. Heat Net 14^th Straight Win in Madison Square Garden

            The Knicks jumped out to a 16-point first half lead, but it wasn’t a large enough cushion to hold off Lebron James. Miami pushed the streak to 15 games tonight.

3. Penguins Win 7-6 Barnburner in Montreal
            Who needs an NHL All-Star team when these two teams combined for 80 shots Saturday night.

2. Carl Edwards Brings Back the Back Flip, Wins at Phoenix

            I think everyone can agree that NASCAR is a way more fun when Cousin Carl is relevant.

1. Bruins Score 3 Times in Third, Stun Lightning

            Sunday night’s loss to arch rival Montreal put a damper on the weekend, but Boston’s efforts at home Saturday afternoon should not be forgotten.

10 Awesome Things That Happened This Past Weekend (2/1-2/3)

10. California Institute of Technology Snaps 228-Game Baseball Losing Streak
            It had been nearly a decade since the nerds from Pasadena had won a game.

9. Antonio Silva Destroys Alistair Overeem

            It’s not often an under-card UFC fight makes the Top 10, but Silva locked up an appearance by screaming in Overeem’s face after he knocked him unconscious.

8. #3 Indiana Knocks Off #1 Michigan

            I dog on college basketball a lot, but it’s pretty cool that these teams played a game that actually mattered.

7. The GoDaddy.com Commerical

            I have a two word description for this one…awesomely gross. Based on published reports, the general population doesn’t agree.

 

6. Adrian Peterson Named 2012 NFL MVP

            In the rarest of occurrences, the NFL nailed every single major award winner on Saturday night.

5. Jonathan Ogden
4. Warren Sapp
3. Larry Allen
2. Cris Carter Make the Pro Football Hall of Fame
            This year’s class makes No Credentials feel super old, as all four of these players were guys that I used to put on my stacked Madden teams in the late ‘90s. Also props to Bill Parcells, whose memorable accomplishment will be what I appreciate him the most for. During his final head coaching stint, here is the list of players that he either drafted or picked up as undrafted rookies during his four years with the Cowboys.

DeMarcus Ware

Jason Witten
Tony Romo (undrafted free agent)
Miles Austin (ditto)
Jay Ratliff (a 7^th round draft pick)
Marion Barber (THE BARBARIAN)
Terrance Newman (sucked ass towards the end, but was a solid corner for years)
Chris Canty (didn’t blossom in Dallas, but was a valuable part of last year’s Super Bowl winning Giants)

1. In Spite Of Power Outage, Baltimore Ravens Win Super Bowl XLVII

            What looked like a runaway turned into a near epic collapse thanks to a 35-minute power outage that drained all of the Ravens momentum (I guess that’ll happen when your offense isn’t on the field for an hour and twenty minutes). Baltimore was the beneficiary of some poor play calling (running two fades when they needed a 2-point conversion and a score on fourth down doesn’t make any sense) and some refs swallowing the whistle (in defense of the zebras, you don’t call pass interference and give San Francisco a fresh set of downs on the 1-yard line. There was contact by both Michael Crabtree and the Ravens corner). All in all, this will go down as one the most memorable (and definitely most bizarre) Super Bowls of the last decade.

Super Bowl XLVII Prop Bets and Pick

            Here’s our favorite prop bets for tomorrow night’s game, with our official Super Bowl pick at the end.

Cross-Sport Bets

49ers Points (+3) over Blake Griffin’s Combined Points and Rebounds vs. Boston Celtics

            Griffin is averaging just under 19 and 9 for the season. I like San Francisco to at least score 25 points, if not a bunch more.

Joe Flacco Touchdown Passes (-115) Greater Than Kobe Bryant’s Number of 3-Point Field Goals Made

            At the time of this writing, Kobe hasn’t hit a 3 in his last six games. Furthermore, he hasn’t even attempted a long-range shot in two of the games, and only attempted one in two more. Remember this when Kobe goes 5 for 7 on Sunday from distance.

Lionel Messi Goals (-0.5) over Frank Gore Touchdowns

            Lionel Messi scored 4 goals in one game this past Sunday. Gore’s going to need to hit pay dirt twice to make this bet competitive.

Chris Bosh Points (-0.5) over Largest Lead of Super Bowl XLVII

            Bosh averages 17 a game, plus he’s making another trip to Toronto, which could mean he wants to put on a show for his former hometown fans. God (working through the body of Ray Lewis, which apparently was a side effect of his deer-antler spray purchase) will not allow this game to get out of hand.

Distance of First Touchdown Pass of Super Bowl XLVII (-6.5) over Steve Nash’s Total Assists

            Kobe Bryant is doing all the distributing in Laker-Land now. This is the easiest bet on the cross-sports board.
 

San Francisco 49ers Player Props

Colin Kaepernick Will Score a Rushing Touchdown (+115)

            Hard to believe we won’t have some “Kaepernicking” on Super Bowl Sunday.

Frank Gore Over 85.5 Rushing Yards (-115)

            San Francisco has done a masterful job of managing Gore’s carries all season. There won’t be any restrictions against Baltimore, a team that is vulnerable against the run.

LaMichael James Longest Rush Over 11.5 Yards (EVEN)

LaMichael James Will Score a Touchdown (+300)
            James started making an impact the last quarter of the regular season (remember his long-kickoff return after 28 straight Patriots’ points turned around a near collapse in December), and as mentioned in the previous prop, Baltimore is vulnerable against the run.

Randy Moss Over 36.5 Receiving Yards (-115)

            Randy Moss might not of been the greatest wide receiver of all-time, but no one was more feared. Think of him as the Barry Sanders of wide receivers. Even now opposing defenses still roll a safety to his side of the field for deep help.

Baltimore Ravens Player Props

Joe Flacco Over 3.5 Rushing Yards (-115)

            Flacco isn’t a stiff, even though he looks like one. I see at least one 3^rd and 4 that ends with Flacco scampering out of bounds with a gain of 5.

Ray Rice Receptions Over 3.5 (+120)

            Baltimore probably will have a hard time running the ball, but that won’t limit the Ravens from getting the ball to one of the best receiving backs in the league. I could see Rice hauling in five or six passes.

Jacoby Jones Will Score a Touchdown (+350)

            The only long-shot bet for a Ravens player to score that I like.
 

Super Bowl XLVII Game Props

Longest Touchdown of Super Bowl XLVII Over 45.5 (-115)

            Each team has electric return men, defenses that can generate turnovers, and plenty of playmakers on offense. It would be hard to believe we won’t see one long touchdown.

Total Sacks in Super Bowl XLVII Under 4.5 (-115)

            Both offensive lines are solid. Only way this goes over is if San Francisco jumps all over Baltimore and Flacco has to throw 55 times.

San Francisco 49ers Will Throw Challenge Flag First (-115)

            This shouldn’t be a newsflash for anyone, but Jim Harbaugh is a fantastic coach in THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE. He is a little reckless sometimes with the challenge flag though.

One Quarter of Super Bowl XLVII Will Be Scoreless (+180)

            Both defenses are talented enough to combine for a scoreless quarter.

Novelty Props

Color of Gatorade Dumped on Winning Head Coach Will Be Red (+350)

            This will make sense when you get to my pick at the end of this column.

MVP of the Super Bowl Will Thank God First (EVEN)

            If you’re a supporter of the Ray Lewis, this will be your favorite bet on the board.

Alicia Keys Will Take Longer Than 2 Minutes and 5 Seconds to Sing National Anthem (-115)

            I couldn’t find a clip of Keys performing the anthem (this was a valuable scouting tool when Christina Aguilera botched the National Anthem a couple of years ago), but I see a long, dragged out, R & B version.

Jim Harbaugh Will Be First Coach Shown On Television After Opening Kickoff (-120)

            Sorry John, Jim is way more interesting.

No Credentials Prediction

49ers (-3.5) over Ravens

            San Francisco will dominate the line of scrimmage offensively, and create a couple of turnovers to slow down the Ravens. Giving Jim Harbaugh two weeks to come up with a game plan is dangerous.

San Francisco 38, Baltimore 28

Regular Season = 140-111-5

Postseason = 6-4

10 Awesome Things That Happened This Past Weekend (11/4-11/6)

10. Baltimore Orioles Name Former Red Sox GM Dan Duquette GM
            Duquette got a bad rap in Boston (his comments about how he hoped to keep Roger Clemens in Boston through the “twilight” of his career after Clemens signed with Toronto being the most infamous), but the guy had as much (if not more) to do with the core of the 2004 Red Sox than Theo Epstein did. Pedro Martinez, Manny Ramirez, Johnny Damon, Derek Lowe, and Jason Varitek were all players acquired by Duquette. Duquette also was the general manager of the greatest team no one remembers, the 1994 Montreal Expos. Until realignment comes it will be tough sledding, but Baltimore made a wise decision for their next general manager.         

9. Trevor Bayne Wins First Nationwide Race, Danica Finishes Eleventh

            I wouldn’t fault you for forgetting that Trevor Bayne existed before he passed Carl Edwards on Saturday. NASCAR would benefit from both Bayne and Danica Patrick having more consistent success in 2012.

8. Northwestern Upsets #9 Nebraska

            Somewhere, Michael Wilbon was very happy Saturday afternoon.        

7. Patrick Peterson Makes Incredible Game-Winning Punt Return

            This play was amazing for the following three reasons, even though it occurred in a game between two 1-6 football teams.

1. Peterson caught the ball on the 1-yard line. Any football fan that knows anything about the sport that the rule is if a punt looks like it is going to land inside the 10, let it go.
2. The runback itself looked like Bo Jackson in TECMO Super Bowl.
3. More importantly, Arizona was favored by three. Typically once a game reaches overtime it ends in a field goal (unless it’s a college game that doesn’t include LSU and Alabama). If you bet on Arizona, or picked them to win like I did, the odds were that you were either staring at a loss or a push. Peterson’s overtime clincher not only gave Arizona their second victory, but people with sick gambling addictions that actually wagered on this game a thrilling victory.

6. Packers Hang on in Shoot-Out, Win 45-38 in San Diego
            It felt like Aaron Rodgers only had the ball for five minutes in this game, but he still managed to throw for 250 and four touchdowns.

5. Tony Stewart Wins Fourth Race of Chase, Within 3 Points of Carl Edwards

            My Chase preview is starting to look more and more like a comedy piece with each trip Tony makes to victory lane. It’s going to be a lot of fun the next two weeks with Smoke and Cousin Carl locked in a tight battle. Look for Edwards to make a stand at Phoenix next week. He had the fastest car their last spring before getting crashed out.

4. LSU Wins “Game of the Century” in Overtime Over Alabama
            After watching four quarters of this game before falling asleep on my couch right before overtime, I’m still trying to figure out how two teams with quarterback play that appears to be somewhere between mediocre and putrid could be ranked 1-2 in the polls. If either team had Andrew Luck under center, they would’ve beaten the other by three touchdowns. I really hope we don’t have to watch a rematch in the BCS Championship Game.

3. NASCAR Parks Kyle Busch

            I’m all for drivers settling their business amongst themselves, but there is no rational defense for what Kyle Busch did to Ron Hornaday in the truck race Friday night. Kudos to the suits running NASCAR for finally putting an end to the “have at it” era.

2. Ravens Shock Steelers

            I’ve never thought all that much of Joe Flacco. He’s certainly been a solid quarterback during his NFL career, but I never though of him as someone who could eventually carry a franchise to a Super Bowl. Last night’s 92-yard drive to sweep the season series over the Steelers was a good way for him to win me over.

1. Eli Leads Another Late-Game Comeback Against Patriots

            It’s hard to believe, but we live in a world where Eli Manning owns Tom Brady.

           

2011 AFC North Preview

This is our first division that gets to play the entire NFC West. Blame inflated win projections for the top three teams on that.

4. Cincinnati Bengals

2010 Record = 4-12, 4^th in Division

Key Additions = LB Manny Lawson, CB Nate Clements
Key Losses = QB Carson Palmer, WR Chad Ochocinco, WR Terrell Owens, CB Johnathan Joseph

Schedule = @ Browns, @ Broncos, 49ers, Bills, @ Jaguars, Colts, BYE, @ Seahawks, @ Titans, Steelers, @ Ravens, Browns, @ Steelers, Texans, @ Rams, Cardinals, Ravens

Real-Life Outlook = I don’t know exactly what the record is for teams that started a red-headed rookie at quarterback, but I feel like it’s probably not very good. Kudos to the folks down in Cincinnati for completely overturning the roster (except for the part where they haven’t moved Carson Palmer yet. Wouldn’t a couple of draft picks be worth more than quarterback who has no intention of playing for you ever again? Palmer’s value will only drop the longer he doesn’t play. Remember this when the Seahawks trade a sixth round pick for Palmer next season). The great Liam Neeson said in “Batman Begins”, “When a forest grows out of control, a purging fire is natural and necessary.” That quote definitely applies here. Cincinnati is going to be awful this season, but things are looking up for them.

Fantasy Outlook = Rookie wide receiver A.J. Green has the most potential of any Bengals players, but fellow rookie Andy Dalton (and his red hair) will hold Green back from being a fantasy monster this season. Green is currently ranked 31^st by the fantasy experts at ESPN, which makes him a fringe #3 receiver or bye-week sub (depending on the size of your league). Cedric Benson is coming off an eventful off-season, but should be drafted by the ninth round as a third RB option. Tight end Jermaine Gresham shouldn’t be drafted, but monitor his performance the first couple of weeks to see if he clicks with Dalton. Rookie quarterbacks usually look for tight ends, so Gresham could be a solid PPR option. 

Ceiling = 6-10

Floor = 0-16
No Credentials Prediction = 2-14

3. Cleveland Browns

2010 Record = 5-11, 3^rd in Division

Key Additions = None
Key Losses = DE Matt Roth, CB Eric Wright, S Abram Elam

Schedule = Bengals, @ Colts, Dolphins, Titans, BYE, @ Raiders, Seahawks, @ 49ers, @ Texans, Rams, Jaguars, @ Bengals, Ravens, @ Steelers, @ Cardinals, @ Ravens, Steelers

Real-Life Outlook = Remember when Cleveland smashed New England last year during the first week of November just two weeks after winning in New Orleans? Somehow this team only won three other games the rest of the season. It would’ve been very easy for Cleveland to take Julio Jones with the fifth pick in the draft to give Colt McCoy a viable wide receiver, but I like how Cleveland shipped the pick to Atlanta for five extra draft picks. With Mike Holmgren running the show, Browns’ fans should have confidence that those picks will be used well. Look for Cleveland to be in a good place in 2014.

            With all that said, did you look at their schedule? Of their first eleven games, I’d give them at least a 40% chance of winning ten of them (their trip to Indianapolis being the one they’ll be heavy underdogs in). I could definitely see them starting the year 7-4 before losing their final five games (they play Baltimore and Pittsburgh twice during this stretch, with a trip to Arizona stuck in the middle). To make a long story short, if you want to bet the over on Cleveland’s regular season win total (on Sportsbook.com, their over/under is 6.5), you have No Credentials full endorsement.     
Fantasy Outlook = It’s not smart to talk about Peyton Hillis before we discuss The Madden Curse. For those not in the know, this has to do with the Madden video game that comes out every year. Ever since players were first placed on the cover, it’s been misfortune for whoever was pictured. Here’s a list of what the curse has done in 12 years. 

The Madden Curse took away any lateral agility Eddie George ever had.

The Madden Curse allowed Daunte Culpepper to set the record for most fumbles lost in a single season during the 2001 campaign. Then for good measure, The Madden Curse shredded both of his knees in 2005 and ’06.

The Madden Curse ended Marshall Faulk’s string of 1,000+ yard-rushing seasons. He retired two years after appearing on the cover in 2002.

The Madden Curse snapped Michael Vick’s leg in half during the 2003 pre-season.

The Madden Curse broke Ray Lewis’ wrist.

The Madden Curse first inflicted a sports hernia on Donovan McNabb, and then as a finishing move, tore his ACL.

The Madden Curse injured Shaun Alexander’s foot, causing him to miss six games the year after he won the league MVP.

The Madden Curse is responsible for Vince Young’s career missteps since his rookie year (if I typed everything that’s happened to him, this post would be an extra 1,500 words).

The Madden Curse coerced Brett Favre into sending a picture of his penis to Jenn Sterger.

The Madden Curse sprained Troy Polamalu’s MCL in the first game of the 2009 season, and then knocked him out of action again with a PCL injury. It’s interesting to note that Larry Fitzgerald was also on the cover with Polamalu that year, but survived. Apparently The Madden Curse can only knock out one player per season.

Finally, The Madden Curse forced Drew Brees to throw a career high 22 interceptions.

            More than anything else, his presence on the cover of “Madden NFL 12” alone is reason for me to avoid Peyton Hillis. It’s not logical, but I’m not betting against a curse until someone is on the cover and wins the Super Bowl the same season.

            To get back to the business of relevant fantasy advice, tight end Kellen Winslow is the only other Brown that should be drafted. He’s another solid late-round option at that position.

Ceiling = 10-6

Floor = 6-10
No Credentials Prediction = 8-8

2. Pittsburgh Steelers

2010 Record = 12-4, 1^st in Division (Lost Super Bowl vs. Packers)

Key Additions = None
Key Losses = None

Schedule = @ Ravens, Seahawks, @ Colts, @ Texans, Titans, Jaguars, @ Cardinals, Patriots, Ravens, @ Bengals, BYE, @ Chiefs, Bengals, Browns, @ 49ers, Rams, @ Browns

Real-Life Outlook = In the season immediately following Pittsburgh’s previous Super Bowl victories, they have failed to make the playoffs the following year. Perhaps coming off of a loss will make them a little less content, but I still think there will be speed bumps for them that will prevent Pittsburgh from winning the North. Maybe a weird home loss against Tennessee or Jacksonville sandwiched between odd road losses at Houston and Arizona. Despite the prediction of an uneven start, Pittsburgh easily has the weakest opposing schedule of any 2010 division winner. Barring significant injuries, there is no way they should lose any of their last five games. The weak schedule should be enough for Pittsburgh to land at least an AFC Wildcard spot.

Fantasy Outlook = Ben Roethlisberger will be either the 8^th or 9^th quarterback taken in your fantasy draft. You’re going to want to draft a decent back up, as Big Ben is prone to holding on to the ball to long and taking a beating. Rashard Mendenhall is a late first or early second round pick at runningback. I have a hunch that Pittsburgh is going to run the ball more this season, and wouldn’t be surprised to see Mendenhall finish with 1,500 rushing yards. Mike Wallace is the AFC’s answer to DeSean Jackson. With Hines Ward getting older (and slower), expect Wallace to set a new career high in receptions. Ward is a fringe #3 in a 12-team league, but probably should be the fourth or fifth wide out you draft. Pittsburgh is one of the few fantasy defenses that you will be able to start every week of the season. 

Ceiling = 14-2

Floor = 9-7
No Credentials Prediction = 11-5

1. Baltimore Ravens

2010 Record = 12-4, 2^nd in Division (Lost in Divisional Round @ Steelers)

Key Additions = WR Lee Evans, FB Vonta Leach, S Bernard Pollard, RB Ricky Williams
Key Losses = RB Willis McGahee, T Jared Gaither, CB Josh Wilson, S Dawan Landry, TE Todd Heap

Schedule = Steelers, @ Titans, @ Rams, Jets, BYE, Texans, @ Jaguars, Cardinals, @ Steelers, @ Seahawks, Bengals, 49ers, @ Browns, Colts, @ Chargers, Browns, @ Bengals

Real-Life Outlook = The addition of Lee Evans makes a huge difference for the Ravens offense. While he isn’t as dynamic as Mike Wallace, he still is the first legitimate deep threat Baltimore has had since the team moved to Baltimore in 1996. If Flacco and Evans click early, running lanes will open up for Ray Rice, and underneath patterns will be more accessible for Anquan Boldin. Baltimore’s secondary was leaky last season, but an improved offense will allow them to play with the lead more often. With their front seven able to pin their ears back and attack opposing quarterbacks, Baltimore should bounce back as a top-5 defensive unit. 

Fantasy Outlook = It’s not all that often that a fullback is discussed in terms of fantasy, but that’s what I’m going to do here in relation to runningback Ray Rice. Baltimore was able to sign former Texans fullback Vonta Leach. Avid fantasy players may recall that Leach was Arian Foster’s lead blocker last season. Foster also just happened to be the top scoring player in fantasy football last season. It isn’t out of the realm of possibility that Rice gets a bump with a better fullback (and better offensive line play). If you can get him at any point after the sixth pick in your draft, you’ll be very fortunate.
            None of the other Ravens are elite fantasy options. Joe Flacco was a sleeper last season, but his disappointing 2010 drops him to the 15^th ranked quarterback on Yahoo!. It would be best to use him in a platoon situation, or as a back-up to Michael Vick or Tony Romo. Anquan Boldin got off to hot start, but disappeared during the final four games of 2010 (only 8 receptions for 67 yards during the fantasy playoffs). The presence of Lee Evans should help a bit, but keep in mind that last season was only the third time in Boldin’s career that he appeared in all sixteen games. Lee Evans should be drafted as a back-up only. His addition to the team will help the offense, but don’t expect Evans to have a monster season.

Ceiling = 14-2

Floor = 10-6
No Credentials Prediction = 12-4


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