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by Digger

Entering Week 9 of the NFL schedule, 25 of 32 teams are in the thick of this seasons' playoff hunt (current standings). Plenty of big game matchups this weekend could determine teams which advance... or those who could be sitting home in January wondering what could have been?

Jets (4-3) @ Buffalo (5-2): Brett Favre's Jets are still searching for consistency of offense. Favre has been victim to shoddy playcalling from the Jets sidelines all season long. Last week vs a terrible Cincy run defense, the Jets chose to throw and almost lost. Buffalo has proven they're a team to be taken seriously. Bills to put another victory notch in their belts, 27-21.

Detroit (0-7) @ Chicago (4-3): Detroit might find a way to victory sometime in '08. Not this weekend. The NFC's lowest scoring offense will be abused by a tenacious Bears defense. Chicago in a blowout, 26-3.

Jacksonville (3-4) @ Cincinnati (0-8): Jags will play back to back games vs winless teams. Does it get any better than this for a team struggling to break .500? Cincy is in complete team disarray from top to bottom. Jags must keep one thing in mind... games are won on the field not on paper. Jax have a shot for 200 yards rushing. Will win 33-10.

Baltimore (4-3) @ Cleveland (3-4): Big AFC North game for both squads. Baltimore is looking to keep pace with division leading Pittsburgh. Cleveland has rebounded after a terrible beginning. Ravens D too tough in a tight battle. Baltimore 20-16.

Green Bay (4-3) @ Tennessee (7-0): Packers facing a huge road test in a must win game vs unbeaten Titans. This one should go down to the wire. Tennessee prevails, 28-26.

Arizona (4-3) @ St. Louis (2-5): Kurt Warner's returns to Rams country on a mission to pick apart their depleted secondary. Cards receivers will be open all game long. Warner will throw for over 400 yards. Rams have finally found some life after a miserable beginning but they'll play dead this weekend. Cards kill, 43-21.

Houston (3-4) @ Minnesota (3-4): Both teams are rebuilding. Both remain in the playoff picture but shouldn't be considered anything more than loooooooooong shots. Vikes win at home, 24-17.

Tampa Bay (5-3) @ Kansas City (1-6): Tampa will beat up on KC early and often. Edwards will be scalped by Chiefs brass fairly soon (too late). Bucs win easily, 24-7.

Miami (3-4) @ Denver (4-3): Tough game to pick. Miami has played very well vs top NFL teams and poorly vs the rest. Denver's offense clicks one week, fades the next. Hold onto your money or place your bets on a different game. I'll give Denver the edge, only because they're home team. Broncos 29-20.

Atlanta (4-3) @ Oakland (2-5): Tales of two teams heading in opposite directions. Falcons are soaring on offense. Raiders have no team identity or chemistry. Falcons fly, 34-7.

Dallas (5-3) @ Giants (6-1): Schedule makers gave the Giants an big edge here with a late game start (4:15). Expect temps to drop and winds to pick up once the sun goes down. Swirling winds usually favor the Giants at home. Dallas has been struggling to score points without Romo. Super Bowl Champs climb to 7-1 after drubbing Cowboys before a sold out crowd, 33-13.

Philadelphia (4-3) @ Seattle (2-5): BIG game could decide Eagles fate. It's a must win game for Philly. Seahawks haven't played well at all this year. Eagles win the battle of birds, 29-16.

New England (5-2) @ Indianapolis (3-4): Peyton Manning hasn't played well this season. Lack of a running game hasn't helped. New England has been finding ways to win behind Brady's fill in Cassel. Indy's season will end with a home loss to Pats, 33-31.

Pittsburgh (5-2) @ Washington (6-2): Game of the Week. MNF matchup of two rough teams. First year Skins Coach Jim Zorn has his team believing. Clinton Portis has been a one man wrecking crew rushing for over 120 yards in five straight. He'll be tested all game vs Steelers pounding defenders. Steelers' Big Ben Roethlisberger has only topped 200 yards twice and no receiver has recorded a 100 yard game. Washington wins the war of big hits, 24-23.

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by Digger

World Series 2008

Philadelphia has won their franchise second World Series Championship over first time playoff contenders Tampa Bay Rays. Phillies southpaw starter Cole Hamels earned MVP hardware for his efforts.

Tampa's magical ride to the Series and Philadelphia's hard nosed battles figured to reign in large television audiences. This wasn't the case. Heading into Wednesday nights continuation of rain suspended Game 5, television ratings were off 24% from last years Rockies/Red Sox battle... and 20% behind the previously recorded record low Series of 2006.

Those who didn't tune in weren't missing much except for sloppy fielding (11 combined errors) and multiple blown calls from tag outs to balks to one-sided balls and strikes gaffe's. Nearly all umpiring mishaps went against Tampa. Umpire crews admitted to a few blown calls. Did this make the difference for Philadelphia winning it all? Probably not. Yet, when in the heat of battle (especially in Series play) it had to take a toll on Rays players. It's often said the best umpiring occurs when nobody notices them. How true.

So what was the motivating factor behind the lowest ratings ever? No interest by anyone west of east coast viewers? Politics? Football season? Perhaps suspended Game 5 which took 2 days to complete? New Yorker's weren't all that enthused after both Yanks and Mets failed to qualify. Illinois and California fans must have been put off after two teams from Chicago and two from Los Angeles got dumped. Maybe all of the above.

Major League Baseball usually puts on a very festive show for World Series play. Not this year. MLB and Fox Sports dropped the ball before the first pitch was thrown. Game One was played in Tampa. Prior to every single World Series, except this year, each player and coach from both teams is introduced one by one. For some reason only starting lineups were introduced and many players were miffed. The lame-o excuse given was due to time constraints. Excuses, excuses. Players were neglected due to time constraints in the games biggest showcase? Unacceptable.

2008 was a great season. Yankee haters got their wish when New York failed to qualify for post season play for the first time since 1994. Dodgers manager Joe Torre had the last laugh after the Yanks failed to resign their star skipper. Cross town rival Mets figured out another way to blow it in September. Manny Ramirez electrified Los Angeles. Tampa Bay shocked baseball by beating out both Boston and New York for the AL East crown. Cubs fans thought their team finally had a legit Series shot after 100 consecutive years of shame. Triple crown threats. Superb rookies. Trade deadline deals and no deals. Pennant races witnessed many teams jockeying for position all year long.

TV ratings spiked... until.... the World Series.

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by Digger

The NFL season has reached its' halfway point. 2008 MVP race is far from decided. This year a few new names are racking up big games helping lead their teams to victory. Let's take a look at the halfway point contenders.

Clinton Portis (RB, WAS). Washington will go as far as Portis' legs take them. 5 straight 100+ yard games has left defenses stymied. His 5.0 yards per carry has opened up passing lanes for QB Jason Campbell . Skins are 6-2, Portis has been the playmaker.

Kurt Warner (QB, AZ). Warner has been the man in Arizona helping lead the Cards to a 4-3 record. Completing passes at a 70.2% clip, 2,089 yards, 14 TD's (2 or more td passes in 6 of 7 games). He's on top of his game and should be considered a serious candidate at this juncture.

Aaron Rodgers (QB, GB). Rodgers had mightly big cleats to fill after taking the reigns from future Hall of Famer and Green Bay legend Brett Favre. Rodgers lived up to the task leading the Pack to a 5-3 record on 65.6% completions and 12 TD's. He's a gifted QB with a bright future. So far so good as this candidate seeks to lead Green Bay back to the NFC Championship game and beyond.

Andre Johnson (WR, HOU). Andre has been over the century mark in 5 of 7, including 4 in a row. Solid stats for a marked man continuously facing double teams. Texas is on a 3 game roll. If AJ can keep his streak going, Houston may have a legit shot at .500

Jay Cutler (QB, DEN). Cutler began the year on fire as Denver won 4 of their first 5. Recent struggles may have tarnished his stats a bit. However, if Denver can get back to winning ways Culters stock will rise.

Honorable mention:
Ronnie Brown (RB, MIA)
Adrian Peterson (RB, MIN)
Phillip Rivers (QB, SD)
Matt Schaub (QB, HOU)

I suspect many more names will be added to this list as NFL 2008 continues. Stay tuned for NFL Head Coach rankings.

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by Digger

College Football season is coming closer to completion. This usually signals the time when coaches, players & fans take issue with BCS rankings. One day the powers that be will finally devise a playoff system to crown college football's true champions. Until then... let the debate rage.

Here's All World All Sports Top 20:
(BCS rankings in parenthesis)

1- Texas Longhorns (1)
2- Penn State Nittany Lions (3)
3- Alabama Crimson Tide (2)
4- Texas Tech Red Raiders (7)
5- Oklahoma Sooners (4)
6- USC Trojans (5)
7- Florida Gators (8)
8- Georgia Bulldogs (6)
9- Utah Utes (10)
10-Oklahoma State Cowboys (9)
11-Boise State Broncos (11)
12-Ball State Cardinals (16)
13-Tulsa Golden Hurrican (18)
14-TCU Horned Frogs (13)
15-Florida State Seminoles (15)
16-Minnesota Golden Gophers (17)
17-BYU Cougars (20)
18-Ohio State Buckeyes (12)
19-North Carolina Tar Heels (23)
20-Michigan State Spartans (21)

Predicted Final #1: Texas Longhorns

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by Digger

It's been a long while since Hollywood rolled out a quality sports movie. Many sports flicks from the past have been very inspirational. Some had us rooting for the underdog. Some rekindled fond memories from our youth. A few were life challenging based on true stories. Mostly, they've all been feel good movies leaving us wanting more.

Here's my top 50 sports movie rankings:

1 - Rocky (1976)
2 - Bull Durham (1988)
3 - Field of Dreams (1989)
4 - Raging Bull (1980)
5 - The Hustler (1961)
6 - The Pride of the Yankees (1942)
7 - Brian's Song (1970)
8 - Hoosiers (1986)
9 - Seabiscuit (2003)
10- Soul of the Game (1996)
11- Cinderella Man (2005)
12- North Dallas Forty (1976)
13- The Longest Yard (1974)
14- Remember the Titans (2000)
15- The Bad News Bears (1976)
16- Slap Shot (1977)
17- We Are Marshall (2006)
18- Eight Men Out (1988)
19- On The Waterfront (1954)
20- The Natural (1984)
21- Radio (2003)
22- Million Dollar Baby (2004)
23- A League of Their Own (1994)
24- Rudy (1993)
25- The Jackie Robinson Story (1950)
26- Friday Night Lights (2004)
27- For The Love of The Game (1999)
28- The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
29- Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962)
30- 61* (2001)
31- Rocky II (1979)
32- Finding Forrester (2000)
33- Downhill Racer (1969)
34- Chariots of Fire (1981)
35- Horse Feathers (1932)
36- Damn Yankees (1958)
37- Knute Rockne All American (1940)
38- Caddyshack (1980)
39- Miracle (2004)
40- Any Given Sunday (2004)
41- Jerry McGuire (1997)
42- Tin Cup (1996)
43- Cool Runnings (1993)
44- Paper Lion (1968)
45- Major League (1989)
46- Victory (1981)
47- Bang The Drum Slowly (1973)
48- Caddyshack (1980)
49- When We Were Kings (1996)
50- Vision Quest (1985)

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by Digger

Many questions will follow bouncing balls all around the NBA in 2008-09. Will Boston repeat? Will LeBron be traded? Can Knicks Head Coach D'Antoni turn losers into winner? Will a full season of Shaq shine for the Suns? Are refs still fixing games?

One thing for certain. NBA '08 will be a season to remember. Let's get to it... prediction time!

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Atlantic Division
Boston Celtics**
New Jersey Nets**
Philadelphia 76ers
Toronto Raptors
New York Knicks

Central Division
Detroit Pistons**
Cleveland Cavaliers**
Indiana Pacers**
Chicago Bulls**
Milwaukee Bucks

Southeast Division
Orlando Magic**
Washington Wizards**
Atlanta Hawks
Charlotte Bobcats
Miami Heat

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Northwest Division
Denver Nuggets**
Utah Jazz**
Portland Trail Blazers
Oklahoma City Thunder
Minnesota Timberwolves

Pacific Division
Los Angeles Lakers**
Phoenix Suns**
Golden State Warriors
Sacramento Kings
Los Angeles Clippers

Southwest Division
San Antonio Spurs**
New Orleans Hornets**
Dallas Mavericks**
Houston Rockets**
Memphis Grizzlies

NBA CHAMPION: Boston Celtics

(** = playoff bound teams)

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by Digger

Week 7 is still resonating in some NFL cities. Dallas dropped another. Indianapolis on verge of an elimination. Titans remain NFL's only unbeaten. Cincinnati and Detroit haven't won a game. Jets stumble in Oakland.

After correctly picking 9 last weekend it's time to give week 8 a shot:

Tampa Bay (5-2) @ Dallas (4-3): Bucs continue to look good. Dallas was blown out by Rams and continues to struggle on and off the field. Tampa escapes in a hard fought battle, 23-21.

Washington (5-2) @ Detroit (0-6): Washington will carve up loser laughingstock Lions, 33-10.

Buffalo (5-1) @ Miami (2-4): Bills continue to get stonger. Dolphins seek another victory. Not this week. Buffalo stampede, 27-16.

St Louis (2-4) @ New England (4-2): Rams manhandled Dallas last week. New England roasted Denver on MNF. Patriots prevail, 33-21.

San Diego (3-4) @ New Orleans (3-4): Live from London. Both teams underperforming and finding new innovative ways to blow games. LT has struggled for SD and Bush is out for NO. Chargers bolt, 27-24.

Kansas City (1-5) @ Jets (3-3): KC is not a good team. Jets still haven't found a rythm. Jets win ugly, 24-10.

Atlanta (4-2) @ Philadelphia (3-3): Atlanta's Ryan, Turner & White hit the road in a big big game for both teams. Philly has a hard time beating winning teams. This one could come down to the games final play. Atlanta wins 21-20.

Oakland (2-4) @ Baltimore (3-3): Ravens too strong for this weak Oakland team. Ravens beat up on silver and black, 31-0.

Arizona (4-2) @ Carolina (5-2): Arizona has either played very well or very poorly. Running game has yet to take hold. Carolina is one of NFC's toughest. Panthers topple Cards in my game of the week selection, 36-27.

Cleveland (2-4) @ Jacksonville (3-3): Cleveland is horrible. Somehow they've won two games. Jacksonville is better than their record. Jags all over Browns, 28-3.

Cincinnati (0-7) @ Houston (2-4): Bengals best chance for a victory is this weekend. Houston's offense is beginning to click. Don't mess with Texas. Houston edges Bengals, 27-26.

Giants (5-1) @ Pittsburgh (5-1): Super Bowl preview? Game of the week type matchup featuring two teams who might play again for the Lombardy Trophy. Both are winning, even if it's been ugly lately. Big test for defending Champs. Big test for wannabe champs. Steelers D gets rough with Eli. Steelers win, 27-17.

Seattle (1-5) @ San Francisco (2-5): Simply put, Seattle stinks. SF fired head coach Nolan. Mike Singletary takes over. 49ers respond, 23-16.

Indianapolis (3-3) @ Tennessee (7-0): Peyton's Colts have struggled to score points. Defense gives up big plays. Tennessee's ground game has decimated opposing defenses. Must win for Colts. Titans too much to handle, win MNF matchup, 24-14.

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by Digger

World Series 2008: Philadelphia Phillies vs Tampa Bay Rays

MLB's Fall Classic improbable teams. The National League was supposed to be ruled by two clubs, Chicago Cubs & New York Mets. AL was supposed to be dominated by Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. Instead, Philadelphia and Tampa defied predictions, polls and popular opinion on their way to play in this years MLB World Series.

Time to break down the newest AL/NL Champions.

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (92-70) (Year by Year) (Division Series) (NLCS)

The Phillies 92 victories represent their first 90 win season since 1993. 2008 was also the first time they've won a Playoff series since '93.

Offense: NL best 214 Home Runs; Tied for 2nd in NL runs scored (799).
When Philadelphia's lineup is clicking, they score runs in bunches. Ryan Howard, Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins are the key cogs. Late season acquisition Matt Stairs was brought in for bench depth and as a DH extraordinaire just in case his new club advanced to the World Series. He'll most likely be DH during games played in Tampa and PH in key late inning situations. The only lineup weak spot is at C where Ruiz/Coste have split time.

Defense: .985 Fielding % NL 5th best.
Solid infield defense around the horn. 1B-Howard, 2B-Utley, SS-Rollins, 3B-Feliz all flash leather and make big plays when games are on the line. All have good instincts, range and strong arms. Not many E's are expected unless the pressure of World Series play creates havoc in players minds. Outfielders: LF-Burrell, CF-Victorino, RF- Werth have all swung clutch bats and play steady D. Burrell will be a player to watch as nagging injuries could limit fielding range. Only snag in Phils D is behind the plate as opposing baserunners seem to steal at will. This will be a huge challenge vs a speedy Rays lineup.

Starting Pitching: After Hamels, the Phils rotation could be in trouble. Hamels was NLCS MVP. His Playoff stats include 3-0, 1.23. He's the Phils go to guy. Blanton, Myers & Moyer round out their rotation. It's anyone's guess if starters 2-4 can cool off an aggressive Rays attack. They'll be tested often.

Bullpen: Huge advantage for Philadelphia. Lidge was sensational this season (41 Saves, 1.95, NO blown saves) and has been lights out blowing hitters away all year including a perfect 5 for 5 vs Milwaukee/Los Angeles in Playoff action. In total, Phillies pitchers have surrendered only 2 earned runs in their last 19+ post-season innings.

TAMPA BAY RAYS (97-65) (Year by Year) (Division Series) (ALCS)

Tampa Bay's magical season continues with a trip to the World Series. Never before had Tampa posted a winning record. Never had they finished higher than 4th in AL East (once). Only one season with 70 wins. The Rays took over first place for good on July 18th. They kept a close eye in their rear view mirror as Boston kept inching closer until finally clinching in late September.

Tampa was not given much respect during the regular season. Not much respect heading into their opening round vs Chicago White Sox. Not much respect vs World Champs Boston. The baseball world has finally realized Tampa is for real. From top to bottom, each player contributes. Tampa plays like a "team". Now they're ready to challenge for a World Series title.

Offense: During the regular season, no single player was considered a "go-to" guy. They all contributed. Only one player hit 30+ HR's (Pena). Only one player knocked in more than 100 (Pena). No players crossed home 100 times. Tampa thrived on clutch play by all players. So many hitters stepped up to the plate with games on the line and more often than not... each one came thru. Tampa is very aggressive on the bases. They steal, hit and run, bunt, run 1st to 3rd. Basically, they just apply pressure. BJ Upton leads Playoff hitters with 7 HR and 15 RBI. He's as hot as one player can be... nearing post-season immortality.

Defense: Solid team .985 fielding %. Very strong infield defenders and speedy outfielders cut off grounders up the middle and gappers in the outfield. If there's any area of weakness it's in lack of power arms in OF. 1B-Pena, 2B-Iwamura, SS-Bartlett, 3B-Longoria committed only 37 E's. Rays defense was one of the major reasons this squad won 97 games and AL East.

Starting Pitching: Total turnaround in 2008. Team 3.82 ERA was AL's second best. Kazmir, Shields, Garza and Sonnanstine will start the Series first four games. It's a gutsy rotation showing no fear by constantly challenging and staying ahead of opposing hitters.

Bullpen: Tampa's biggest question mark. Veteran closer Troy Percival was brilliant until faltering due to injuries (out for season). It's been a bullpen by committee ever since without having any one overpowering go to guy. Except for a few blips on the radar screen... Tampa relievers are ready to do battle.

Prediction/Outlook: Both teams are hungry. Both playing great in clutch situations. Both were expected to get dumped early in post-season action.
Tampa Bay Rays will win 2008 World Series in 6 games

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by Digger

7 correct selections in Week 6 doesn't cut it. Good thing I didn't lay out any bets. Week 7 is a different story. This week, making the right call is key. Here they are......

San Diego (3-3) @ Buffalo (4-1): Big stepping stone game for a Bills team trying to prove they're the real deal. Buffalo in a close contest, 26-24.

Minnesota (3-3) @ Chicago (3-3): Vikings suddenly find themselves in a first place tie. Chicago is struggling to win consistantly. Hard nosed game won by da Bears, 16-12.

Pittsburgh (4-1) @ Cincinnati (0-6): Don't get lulled into thinking this one will be a Pittsburgh blowout. It should be but these teams carry grudges and will fight to the finish. Bengals offense is still missing plus defense getting ripped equals no wins. Steelers finding ways to win do it again, 27-17.

Tennessee (5-0) @ Kansas City (1-4): Titans playing balanced football. KC's Gonzalez miffed & stunned not to be traded. KC is in shambles. Titans trounce 34-6.

Dallas (4-2) @ St Louis (1-4): Cowboys' injuries and drama heating up. Brad Johnson should start this weekend for injured Romo. Rams finally won last week but it was a fluke. Cowboys sling Rams, 41-23.

Baltimore (2-3) @ Miami (3-2): The jury is still out on both squads. Ravens D continues to punish opponents. Offense continues to sputter. Dolphins looked exceptional vs New England and San Diego. QB edge favors Miami which could be the difference. 'Phins win 22-10.

San Francisco (2-4) @ Giants (4-1): Giants a bit dinged up but should rebound after a flat performance on Monday Night Football. SF is a work in progress and need ball control to have any shot. Giants bounce back, 27-23.

New Orleans (3-3) @ Carolina (4-2): Saints erratic. Panthers playing for keeps. Carolina wins, 33-27.

Detroit (0-5) @ Houston (1-4): Tale of the terribles. Detroit traded WR Williams to Dallas for 3 picks. Lions one of football's all time worst managed franchises. Houston keeps trying to rebuild has shown flashes of promise. Texans roast Lions, 20-9.

Jets (3-2) @ Oakland (1-4): Favre & Co. starting to get on same page. Jets getting ready for lift off. Raiders organization has splintered again. Favre picks apart spacious Raiders D, 36-22.

Indianapolis (3-2) @ Green Bay (3-3): If Rogers is able to play Green Bay might survive. Both teams have had their moments, good and ugly. Colts stomp Pack 33-7 (if Rogers out, 33-17 with Rogers).

Cleveland (2-3) @ Washington (4-2): 2 stunners last week. Cleveland conquering Giants and Skins last second loss to Rams. Cleveland is overmatched. Skins 31-16 winners.

Seattle (1-4) @ Tampa Bay (4-2): Point blank, Seattle has been pathetic at times. Tampa Bay could easily be undefeated. Offense puts up big stats vs slumping 'Hawks. TB rocks 34-10.

Denver (4-2) @ New England (3-2): Lucky Broncos offense lights up scoreboards because their defense can't stop anyone. Pats are searching for answers and plays for sub Cassell. So far not too smooth. It'll be a shootout in Foxboro Monday night. Denver wins 36-32.

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by Digger

Dallas Cowboys outspoken owner Jerry Jones has his hands full once again. America's Team is back making headlines in 2008. Probably not the kind Jerry wanted to be reading mid-season.

I don't think anyone in Cowboys country questions JJ's commitment to winning. Sometimes, fans rightfully question whether Jerry or a few players should be committed by the white coat brigade. Jones has been faced with many controversies during his tenure. Some self created.

When Jones took over in 1989 the Cowboys were in dire need of a change. Legendary Hall of Fame Coach Tom Landry was quickly cast aside without an ounce of due respects shown to a man whose innovations helped shape how the game of football was to be played... and won. On a drunken night after consecutive Super Bowl victories, Jones insulted Head Coach Jimmy Johnson resulting in a parting of ways. The team, while continuing to win, was soon mired in mini-drama's. Sex scandals, drug users, arrests, player stabbings, multiple coaching changes, high profile contract disputes, signing troubled players and recent playoff failures have all made headlines during the years.

So why should 2008 be any different? It's not.

Dallas was picked by many to represent the NFC in the big game. Last season's late collapse and playoff failure was labelled a fluke and learning experience. The Jessica Simpson/Tony Romo romance was a distraction no more. Snapshots of Cabo getaways were now history. Whirlwinds surrounding Terrell Owens dissipated. Cowboys had a monster draft. Players contracts secured. All happy and ready to play. Except, Jones' Cowboys did have one side note which has come back to bite them. PacMan Jones.

Jones aggressive pursuit of criminally challenged and suspended PacMan was a joke. Just when waters calmed in Dallas, Jerry added another shark. PacMan's arrival promised more negative headlines and increased risk to team chemistry. He's been arrested and suspended again.

Thrown into the mix....
*Injury to Tony Romo's throwing hand last weekend during an overtime loss to Arizona. His status for the next month is uncertain.
*Earlier this season while still undefeated, T.O. complained of his lack of inclusion in the game plan. Dallas soon scripted plays for T.O. and has since lost twice.
*Inconsistent play on both sides of the line has started to raise eyebrows.
*Jones arrest has naysayers using the "I told you so" line.
*Punter Mat McBriar (49.0 yd/p) was lost for the year when his punt was blocked for a game ending overtime loss.
*Rookie sensation Felix Jones was lost for two weeks with hamstring concerns.
*Cornerback Terence Newman is recovering from surgery.
*Trade deadline deal lands a new WR. THREE draft picks given to Detroit for wideout Roy Williams. An interesting move depending on how well Owens adjusts to the new kid in town.
*With all the above taking place in a very short period of time, fans have been left wondering "what's next?" and "not again!"

Local Dallas sports talk radio has been hopping this week. NFC East is NFL's toughest. Cowboys sudden player injuries and side shows could derail what was to be a promising season. Dallas has depth and talent to survive at all positions lost to injuries. Question is... do they have the mental toughness to gell as a "team" or will they self destruct?

In recent times, self destruction prevailed. Will 2008 be written as the year Dallas finally shows maturity on their way to a title? Or, will this be just another promising year wasted by poor attitudes on and off the field of play?

NFL Super Bowl Champions all have one common denominator = "Team"
Team effort. Team chemistry. Team character.

All players contributed on the greatest of Championship teams. New England, Green Bay, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Miami, Washington, Oakland and Denver... all had chemistry and strong team leaders. They had the ability to survive injuries and distractions. True champions of the gridiron.

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by Digger

Chicago (3-2) @ Atlanta (3-2): Bears tenacious D vs rejuvinated Falcons squad which plays very well at home. Can Orton post back to back big games? Yes. Bears in a tight contest, 21-18.

Miami (2-2) @ Houston (0-4): Dolphins stunned the football world by taking out both New England (38-13) and San Diego (17-10). They shouldn't have any trouble with winless Houston.... which usually means beware of an upset. Houston gets first win, 22-20.

Cincinnati (0-5) @ Jets (2-2): Bengals need a new coach and to ditch problem child players. Jets come off bye week where Favre & coaching staff ironed out all dings. Jets ready to fly rest of season. Favre pilots 44-23 win.

Detroit (0-4) @ Minnesota (2-3): Detroit one of NFL's worst. Minnesota has 2nd life after benching QB Jackson for Frerotte. Vikes prevail, 26-16.

Carolina (4-1) @ Tampa Bay (3-2): Game of the Week. Huge early season NFC South matchup. Carolina is on a roll after beating up in NFL's weaker teams. Tampa playing gritty football. TB edges Panthers, 19-16.

Baltimore (2-2) @ Indianapolis (2-2): Ravens coming off consecutive losses. Colts struggling for offensive rythm. Colts win another nailbiter, 26-24.

Oakland (1-3) @ New Orleans (2-3): Raiders in complete disarray from management to players. Too much bickering for successful results. Saints look good one minute, self destruct the next. New Orleans gets it right this week, 30-19.

St. Louis (0-4) @ Washington (4-1): Tale of two teams in opposite directions. Rams can't seem to do anything right. Redskins beginning to believe after big divisional romps over Dallas & Philly. Skins scalp Rams, 34-6.

Jacksonville (2-3) @ Denver (4-1): Jax is struggling for consistency. Denver's offense is piling up points while D surrenders. Jax will win if they exploit Denvers weaknesses. Denver wins if Jax can't find end zone. Mile High home field advantage plays a factor. Big play Broncos gallop, 37-31.

Green Bay (2-3) @ Seattle (1-3): Battle of underacheivers. GB dropped 3 in a row after a 2-0 start to the post-Favre era. Seattle was exposed, embarrassed and harrassed vs Giants (44-6). GB bounces back 26-24.

Dallas (4-1) @ Arizona (3-2): Cowboys prolific attack seeking consistency. Defense has been exposed to pass attacks. Arizona plays well at home and will keep Dallas secondary busy. Turnovers will be the difference. Dallas in a thriller, 34-30.

Philadelphia (2-3) @ San Francisco (2-3): Banged up Eagles generally do not win without Westbrook (out). San Fran engulfed in roller coaster type of season ground Eagles at home, 27-18.

New England (3-1) @ San Diego (2-3): NE Cassel starting to gain confidence which spells doom and gloom for opponents. San Diego has been the tough luck squad so far. Now they're banged up and coming off a demoralizing defeat to Miami. New England beginning to roll, 33-27.

Giants (4-0) @ Cleveland (1-3): Monday Night Football. Giants on top of their game offensively & defensively. Manning is putting together an MVP type season. Cleveland's sputtering offense has an AFC low 46 points while Giants have given up NFL low 49. Giants roll with ease, 38-0.

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by Digger

The 2008 football season is still young. A few teams already established themselves as early season contenders. A couple of teams with Super Bowl dreams have sputtered. Just like any other sport, NFL has their share of underachievers and duds.

So, which team is the best of the best right now? With only five weeks completed many are well deserving of consideration. Tennessee (5-0)? Giants (4-0)? Washington (4-1)? Dallas (4-1)? Carolina (4-1)? Who will it be? The answer is clear....

#1 NEW YORK GIANTS (4-0)
Eli Manning has been nearly flawless leading undefeated Super Bowl Champion New York Giants in their quest for back to back titles. This kid is a new man after beating New England for the title. Manning arrived at training camp exuding confidence never shown before this season. His passes are crisp, sound decision making, spreading the ball to multiple receivers, long drives keeping opponents offenses on the sidelines. Steve Smith has become Mannings favorite 3rd down target. Veteran and local fan favorite Armani Toomer has been spectacular after pre-season leg woes.

The Giants have much more than Manning. Their pounding running game has worn down defenses. New York's offensive line has blown defenders off the line of scrimmage. Giants have completely dominated scrimmage lines since opening day. No rusher in the backfield is averaging less than 5.8 yards per carry... a devastating number for opposing teams. Giants running game opens passing lanes for Manning to hit streaking receivers. A solid passing game opens line holes for running lanes to break thru. And, it's made possible by the NFL's best blocking unit. Giants offense leads all NFL teams averaging 431 yards/game including 181.2 rushing yards/game. It all adds up to ball control as this unit controls the ball for 34:14 minutes/game.

Defense was to be the Giants biggest concern heading into '08. Legendary sacker Strahan retired. Then, standout defensive lineman Osi Umenyiora was lost for the year before it began. Many questioned whether or not this team had enough depth to fill two huge voids. Guess what? The defensive unit grew tougher and stronger. They're the NFC's best statistical unit. NFL's number one in least points surrendered (49). Battering opposition QB's with 15 Sacks and surrendering only 61 first downs helps the D unit control field position and time possession.

Distractions are nothing new to Giants players. Eli Manning was most happy when stadium sharing New York Jets signed QB Brett Favre. The media attention quickly shifted to the Jets newest pilot. WR Plaxico Burress antics already earned him an early season benching. Giants had their most explosive game on offense without him clubbing Seattle 44-6.

Head Coach Tom Coughlin has Giants players performing to near perfection. His staff seems to be calling the right plays at the right times. Players have executed above and beyond. Coughlin's biggest challenge is keeping New York focused on their mission without letting them get overconfident. After games against Cleveland and San Francisco the Giants face the teeth of their schedule. Consecutive contests (week 8-16) against NFL's elite read as follows: @ Pittsburgh, vs Dallas, @ Philadelphia, vs Baltimore, @ Arizona, @ Washington, vs Philadelphia, @ Dallas, vs Carolina. This is where the season will be won or lost. It will also determine whether or not the Giants remain worthy of best team recognition.

There's a long way to go in NFL's 2008 season. As for now anyway, the Giants are tops.

Honorable Mention:
#2 Tennessee Titans (5-0). Very soft '08 schedule helps Titans off to a quick start. Weak back half of schedule should propel them into Playoffs.

#3 Carolina Panthers (4-1). If it wasn't for a loss to Minnesota, Panthers would challenge NY for #1. Carolina is playing very strong football. Attention seems focused on other teams which bodes well for these guys. They could be primed for another run at the NFC Championship Game.

#4 Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1). NFL's #2 defense (231.6 yds/game) is swarming. Offense needs to pick it up. Fundamentally sound team.

#5 Dallas Cowboys (4-1). Picked by many to run away with NFC East on their way to a Super Bowl Championship. Cowboys have one of NFL's most prolific offenses with plenty of weapons. Outspoken Terrell Owens has already complained he's not getting the ball often enough. Sorry, T.O...... but with such a rich group of talented offensive players... winning it all should mean more than how many catches you record. Defense has had inconsistent moments (pass defense was torched vs Philadelphia). Offense should be controlling all games but it's also been inconsistent. Dallas has the talent to win it all but will have to iron out kinks before Playoff football begins.

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by Digger

MLB's League Championship Series begins Thursday night in Citizens Bank Park. All four remaining Playoff teams are riding high.

Tampa Bay has proven they're for real.
Boston's hanging tough chasing another World Series parade.
Dodgers' newest members leading the way in LA.
Recent near misses energize Phillies players.

AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Boston Red Sox (95-67) vs Tampa Bay Rays (97-65)

Boston: World Series Champs continue their title defense. Angels proved to be no match once again. 3B Mike Lowell is out. Sox can survive but will miss his clutch bat and stellar D. Sox pitching was up to task vs Angels. Boston must start driving home runners in scoring position if they're to prevail vs Rays. Manny's replacement, Jason Bay, is on fire. Rotation matchups will be very important. Sox are ready.

Tampa Bay: How many times does this team have to prove themselves? Rays have conquered every hurdle. They're focused and take advantage of most opportunities. Hitters are getting the job done. Pitchers were good against Chicago but they must have career games against Boston to knock off the champs. Manager Maddon has these guys clicking. Everyone chips in when the game is on the line. Rays can cap off a tremendous season with a trip to the World Series.

Outlook: Tampa won 10 of 18 regular season matchups. Quite a few were slugfests. Boston owns the pitching advantage. Championship pitchers are used to big game play. Bullpen, led by Papelbon (41 Saves), is rolling along. Both starting lineups will be considered even heading into this series. Both teams produce runs in key situations.
ALCS isn't lacking any drama. These teams will go toe to toe. Boston tops Rays in 6.

NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Los Angeles Dodgers (84-78) vs Philadelphia Phillies (92-70)

Los Angeles: Dodgers are in a zone. They made beating the NL's best (Cubs) look too easy. All key moves Torre makes seem to pay off. Manny Ramirez' late season arrival energized an entire lineup. Veteran starting rotation must stay ahead of an aggressive Phillies lineup. Ground balls in hitter friendly Citizens Bank Park will be needed. Everything is working.. offense, defense, pitchers, manager. Look out Phillies.

Philadelphia: Phillies won their first Playoff series since 1993. Feared lineup of Howard, Utley, Rollins, Burrell & Co. smashed 214 homers. Starting pitchers looked good vs Milwaukee. However, Dodger hitters aren't nearly as reckless as Brewers K artists. Aggressive baserunning will be key vs LA starters. Phils must keep pressure at all times to disrupt LA's rythm.

Outlook: Dodgers are rolling. Starting pitching advantage is too big. Manny too hot. Torre too smart. LA in 5.

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by Digger

2008 was widely believed to be the year all Cubs curses were laid to rest. Chicago Cubs (97-64) were built for winning. Championship Manager. Feared 1-8 lineup. Powerful starting pitching. Lights out bullpen. Great defense. They moved into first place on May 11 and never looked back.

Everything seemed to be going right for the Cubs. They were doing what was expected all year. Winning. Winning big. Winning often. NL Central Division Champions.

Cubs brass even scheduled excorcisms at famed Wrigley Field attempting to dispell all curses (Curse of Fred Merkle, Curse of the Billy Goat, Curse of 1969, The Steve Bartman Incident).

Chicago fans jammed Wrigley all year. Once again, they were beginning to believe time had finally come for Cubs players to bury years of frustration and near misses. Fans and reporters often spoke phrases of hope highlighting how Boston finally dispelled the Curse of the Bambino by winning two World Series ('05, '07).

99 consecutive seasons without a World Series title. No National League Championships since 1945. The "Lovable Losers" from Chicago endured a century of heartbreaks. "Cursed Again!" was heard often after the Cubs found new and unbelievable ways to lose...

1969 Cubs owned a seven game August lead over the team soon to be named the Miracle Mets. During a pivotal head to head matchup in New York, a black cat ran in front of Chicago Cubs on deck hitter. Cubs eventually blew their 7 game lead and failed to qualify for the Playoffs.

1984 Cubs win first division title since 1945. Win 1st two games in best of 5 series vs San Diego (won first game 13-0). Game 3, Cubs up 3-0. Ahead by 3-2, 1B Leon Durham commits 2 errors in 7th inning leading to 4 runs. Cubs then swept in 3 straight, including blowing a another 3-0 lead in Game 5.

2003 National League Championship Series. Cubs own commanding 3 games to 1 lead (best of 7) over Florida Marlins. Game 6, Cubs own 3-0 lead (again). Marlins erupt for 8 runs in the 8th inning, highlighted by Bartman's blunder. Game 7 the Cubs had battled back to lead 5-3 only to blow another Series.

2008 Chicago had NL's best record (97-64). Everything was clicking. LA Dodgers won fewest of all Playoff teams (84-78). One problem... LA was hot and revitalized. Cubs jump to an early 2-0 Game 1 advantage... fail to score again until 7th inning of Game 2. Dodgers command series and sweep Cubs marking 100 consecutive years without a Championship.

So, how does a Cubbies fan get over this one? Good thing this wasn't another patented gutwrenching chokes which sent Chicago packing. Who knows how many fans would have ended up in psych wards? They were simply outclassed by Joe Torre's Dodgers. Back to the drawing board.

Recent times have found us in an era of new stadiums being built in many baseball cities. While I'm a fan of creating better ballparks replacing old bowl looking cookie cutter parks... I was dead set against tearing down historic Tiger Stadium, Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park and Wrigley Field when rumors first surfaced.

Tiger Stadium is gone.

Boston tinkered with a new venue until City and fan opposition interevened.

Yankee ownership will make a killing in their New Yankee Stadium. But, tearing down the current Stadium has many fans irked. Especially with the rich history and tradition associated within The House that Ruth Built. Superstitious fans remain uneasy... 26 World Championship Teams, 37 Pennants, 45 Playoff appearances.

Wrigley Field. Well, for the very first time I'm now of the opinion Wrigley Field should be rebuilt on another location. Clearly, no Cubs team can win a Championship in current Wrigley. The "curse" thing is buried too deeply inside minds of players, fans and owners. It would be great to see a replica stadium instead of a complete redesign. Either way, Cubs need a new home. 2008 proved it once again. Unlike Chicago fans, I had zero confidence in the Cubs getting past LA in the NLDS.

Cubs World Series hopes will always be doomed until they move. Sounds crazy to some, but 100 futile years provides enough proof it's time to find a new home.

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by Digger

Week 4 was full of surprises and big scoring games. Week 5? Let's take a look while trying to rebound from last week's debacle of picking winners.

Atlanta @ Green Bay... Pack attack, 31-26
Seattle @ Giants...... Giants to dominate at home, 33-14
KC @ Carolina......... Panthers complete control, 28-3
Indy @ Houston........ Manning and Colts still trying to find rythm, 27-9
Chicago @ Detroit..... Bears defense is flying, 21-0
San Diego @ Miami..... Phins stunned NE last weekend. SD too tough. SD 31-20
Washington @ Philly... 'Skins are for real and ready to rumble. 33-31
Tennessee @ Baltimore. Defensive battle. Titans escape, 17-16
Cincinnati @ Dallas... Bengals free falling. Dallas rolling, 55-3
Tampa Bay @ Denver.... Broncos upset last week seek revenge, 23-20
Buffalo @ Arizona..... Buffalo continues magic act, 32-30
New England @ SF...... No running game in NE. SF 27-23
Minnesota @ NO (Monday) Vikes outclassed. Saints march, 42-24

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by Digger

Playoff baseball is back again! Tampa Bay represents this year's Cinderella team by posting their first winning season and American League East Division Title. Two teams from Chicago qualified for post-season play, including one on the final day. Two New York teams are sitting this one out, includig one disqualified on the final day. Two Los Angeles named teams made it too, including one skipper who managed both New York teams. Milwaukee and Philadelphia get in on New York action too. Both need to thank New York's team from Flushing for another September blowup.

Who will win it all? Cubs? Red Sox? Rays? Angels? Phillies? Dodgers? White Sox? Brewers?

It's time! MLB Division Series Playoff Breakdown.

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Boston Red Sox (95-67) vs Los Angeles Angels (100-62)

Boston sent home banged up LA in last years' playoff matchup (and '05). It's a new year as LA dominated regular season play vs a banged up Boston squad. The World Champs aren't 100%. Ace starter Josh Beckett was scratched from opening the series. He's been pushed back to Game 3. Mike Lowell and JD Drew are dinged. Manny Ramirez was a late season trade. Jason Bay makes his playoff debut. 2B Pedroia was team hero this year piling it on after Manny was dealt. Manager Francona had these guys playing aggressive baseball all season long. To win, these Wild Card winners need to capitalize on every opportunity.

Angels have been on a mission since being eliminated by Boston last year. They dominated out of the gate winning the West by 21 games. Only team posting 100 wins. These guys play small ball better than most NL teams. LA picked up slugging 1B Mark Teixeira mid-season to solidify their well balanced lineup. Speed, defense, pitching and power. Francisco Rodriguez rewrote baseball's All Time Saves record (62). LA catches a break with Beckett's Game 1 scratch. Starting pitchers must tame BoSox lineup to survive round one. This will be a great series.

This one goes the distance. Angels prevail.

Chicago White Sox (89-74) vs Tampa Bay Rays (97-65)

Chicago has won three clutch games in a row, including a 1-0 one game playoff vs Minnesota to capture the American League Central crown. They enter this series flying high. It was a long season for Manager Guillen. Chicago had their share of key injuries. Sluggers Thome and Konerko struggled most of the year. They have to turn it on for the Sox to keep rolling. Key cog Quentin (.288, 36 HR, 100 RBI) is out of the playoffs. Traded for Ken Griffey, Jr who made an instrumental game saving throw from center to home helping Chicago advance in yesterday's one game playoff. Starting pitching must step it up vs an energized Rays attack.

Not enough can be said about Tampa Bay Rays' spectacular season. They came out of nowhere to beat out heavily favored Boston and New York for AL East honors. 2008 was their first ever winning season. Will the party continue? Manager Maddon's moves have all worked out. Young starting pitchers came thru vs top teams in regular season. They'll have to stay ahead of patient White Sox hitters. Lineup gets the job done. Corner infielders Longoria and Pena supply the power. Tampa needs to stay loose to win. Bullpen injuries could be worrisome vs clutch Chicago hitters. Worst possible series matchup for Rays.

Chicago continues to roll. White Sox in 4.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Milwaukee Brewers (90-72) vs Philadelphia Phillies (92-70)

Milwaukee won game 162 to secure NL Wild Card. Brewers can slug it out with any lineup. Free swinging club packs plenty of power hitters (5 with 20+ homers). Warning, six struck out over 100 times (1203 as team). Brewers must cut down on strike outs and advance baserunners vs Phillies. Biggest factor in Milwaukee's favor is playing in hitters parks. CC Sabathia dominated NL hitters (11-2, 1.65) after being acquired from Cleveland. CC and Sheets are a tough 1-2 but the latter has been roughed up lately. Rotation matchup out of whack since CC started final game. 3-4 starters might already be quaking in their cleats thinking of Phillies lineup. Brewers need to put their bats on baseballs and capitalize on every opportunity to prevail.

Phillies hitters strike fear into pitchers. Howard (48 HR, 146 RBI), Utley (33 HR, 104 RBI), Burrell (33 HR), Rollins (38 2B, 9 3B, 47 SB) pace their attack. If these guys all get hot, nobody will stop the Keystone Kids. Phils players believe. On the hill, Hamels has great stuff and could be the difference maker. Rotation matchup favors Philadelphia since CC pitched on seasons' final day and tosses his 3rd straight game on three days rest. Lidge has been perfect out of the pen (41 Saves). Phillies staff will average 12 strikeouts per game. Good luck Milwaukee. You'll need it.

Phillies beat up strike out artists in 4.

Los Angeles Dodgers (83-78) vs Chicago Cubs (97-64)

Dodgers Manager Joe Torre must be loving life in LA. Torre led the Yankees to twelve consecutive playoffs. His personal streak now stands at 13 while NY sits home. Dodgers 84 wins represents fewest of playoff teams. They play NL's top winning Cubs (97). Manny Ramirez revitalized an enemic Blue offense. He put this team on his back and carried them to the finish line. In 53 Dodger games, Manny hit .396, smoked 17 homers, drove in 53. Sports 24 career playoff homers in 95 contests. Casey Blake (3B) was another key late season pickup (58 games, 10 HR). Furcal (.357) returns after spending most of the year DL'd. LA staff posted NL best 3.68 ERA. Only two starters with double digit victories. Middle relievers could be games best... face Chicago's heralded bullpen. Other three NL playoff team lineups outclass Torre's crew. Dodgers lineup is finally clicking. Dodgers could be sleepers.

Lou Piniella managed his Cubs to NL's best 97 wins. Ryan Dempster (14-3 @ Wrigley) has been tabbed Game 1 starter. Cubs starters will need to keep Manny and Co. off balance. Cubs lineup featured seven with double digit homers. They all seem to hit in the clutch. Defense is very strong at all positions. Dempster, Zambrano and Lilly have been in control all season (combined 48-21). A trade deadline game of chess landed star Rich Harden on an already deep staff. Bullpen features flame throwers. Cubs look unbeatable. So what's wrong with this picture? They're the "CUBS". Somehow... someway... Cubs find a way to blow it when it counts most. 99 straight years without a World Series Championship. Cubs fans say there won't be 100. Don't trust anyone who's been wrong 99 consecutive times.

Cubs NL's most powerful team. Most heavily favored to win NLCS. Most NL Wins. Most NL Runs. Most pitching K's. Most consecutive non-playoff seasons of 99........ reaches 100. Dodgers in 5.

MLB Divisional Playoffs... the first leg on the path to determining 2008 World Series Champion.

Who will win it all?

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