By: Kevin Cottrell Jr.

Just A Thought…  

GREAT…How does one define it? The average person may measure greatness by obtaining their highest goal, becoming a millionaire and some women may say giving birth without pain is great…The dictionary defines it as “having unusual merit, extraordinary powers, expert, the best.” All these adjectives sums up the word “great”, but if you ask Michael Jordan to define great he may hand you his resume. For MJ23, great was being cut from his High School basketball team then bouncing back by earning a scholarship to play for the University of North Carolina. Great was hitting a game-winner as a freshman to win the 1982 National Title…After that he only got better and was named 1984 College Player of the year which led to him being drafted by the Chicago Bulls (to the Blazers dismay) where he became the heart beat of the heartland of America. But what made this all great was when he returned to campus in 1986 to complete his degree…What else was great? Great was being named 1985 Rookie of the Year, great was breaking his foot just 18 games into his second season then returning to average a career high 37.1 ppg in his third season. Great was using his God giving talents to defy gravity and being tabbed as “Air Jordan.” Great is a 2x Dunk Champ, 14x All-Star, an NBA record 10 Scoring Titles. Great is using the same energy that allowed him to excel on offense to be named to 9 All-Defense (First) Teams. Great was finally defeating the Pistons and capturing 3 NBA Titles (3 Finals MVPs). Great was retiring when he thought he had nothing left to prove, began to play professional baseball in his slain father’s honor, then after 18 months returning to the NBA (dropping 55 in Madison Square Garden) and win 3 more NBA Titles (3 more Finals MVPs). Great is being named NBA MVP 5x (not more because they wanted to spread the award around), 1x Defensive Player of the Year, earning 2 Gold Medals and anchoring a 72-win team (at the age of 32). Great was being the only 2 Guard to be the leader of a dynasty without the services of another Great big man! Great was watching his leaping ability fade and him perfect the “fade away.” It’s being named one of the 50 greatest players of all-time. Great is becoming a marketing icon serving as a pitchman for Wheaties, Hanes, Gatorade and releasing 23 pairs of his own “Air Jordan sneakers.” In the end his greatness achieved 32, 292 points 6,672 rebounds and 5,633 assists. September 11^th the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame will honor his greatness…but his competitive flame is still burning an he won’t rest until he molds the Charlotte Bobcats into a champion. Sure you’re shaking your head in disbelief at this potential accomplishment but his High School basketball coach will be in the crowd on Friday doing the exact same thing…

NBA News & Notes

*DAY 72: Iverson’s ANSWER…After approximately 2 months & 12 days of the same Iverson question being asked, it seems as if he finally has an answer. Memphis will be the 34-year-old vets new home for the 2009-10 season. A.I., known for setting trends, broke the news via his twitter page (sorry ESPN). Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, here are a few more questions that needs to be answered…

1. Why Memphis? According to Iverson, “God Chose Memphis…”, while I’m not questioning his faith the truth is, like T.O., it was his ONLY option. After failing to be the Iverson of old in Detroit, NBA brass turned elsewhere for a veteran guard presence.
2. Why was Memphis interested? Easy, ticket sales! The Grizzles built a beautiful stadium on Beale Street (FedEx Forum) where they averaged 12,000 fans during last season. The University of Memphis basketball team packs the arena out with no problem (with or without D. Rose). So the signing was done with the hope that fans will rush out to buy tickets, jerseys and anything else with the powder blue Grizzlies logo on it.
3. Will It Work? Basketball wise, NO. The core rotation consists of Zach Randolph, Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo and Iverson. All of the players are only effective with the ball in their hands and none of them ever come across half court to play on the defensive end. Simply put this is a train wreck waiting to happen. Business wise, YES. The only thing popular in Memphis is BBQ, Three Six Mafia and First 48 (shout out to the lady detective w/a Gap). So fans will be excited to see the future hall-of-famer make things exciting even though they’re destined for failure.

 *FAB 5: HAWKS…Many of you are aware of some of the things I do on every other day than THURSDAY w/NBA Digital…Here’s the latest clip from C. Webb’s FAB 5 on NBA.com…Check Us Out!!

www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2009/0...

 NFL News & Notes

*Blame it on the Alcohol? Earlier in the week it was reported that Chargers LB Shawne Merriman was arrested for assaulting his reality TV girlfriend “Tila Tequila”. Merriman claims she was inebriated and attempting to drive. So he did what any friend would do, choke her by any means necessary so she would get behind the wheel!! Okay, so maybe he didn’t. but then again maybe she wasn’t drunk. Ms. Tequila stated that she’s actually allergic to alcohol so there’s no way she could have even been drinking…hmm what does one believe? Merriman was suspend for steroid use, so ‘roid rage could explain his actions. Then again, her claim to fame is “A SHOT at love with tila TEQUILA” yet she’s allergic to alcohol. All of this drama is stressing me out, where’s the Patron when you need it?? Stay tuned!

*Father Time is Undefeated! Since 1990 only 5 QB’s over 35 have gone 2 straight years without missing a start. The odds states that Matt Leinart, Vince Young and Tarvaris Jackson will all be playing at some time this season…

NFL: PICK 6! WEEK 1 Predictions:

1. TITANS @ STEELERS- The defending champs will kick-off the season tonight at Heinz Field against the “Terrible Towel’ stomping Titans. The Steelers are returning 21 of 22 starters from their Super Bowl roster. The Titans are returning with a chip on their shoulder pads along with the motivation to play for Steve McNair. All eyes across the nation will be on this game so expect big hits, heavy dose of the run game and a tightly played game. The key to success will be in the run game. The Titans have a slimmer (yet powerful) LenDale White and the explosive Chris Johnson. Pittsburgh has two question marks in Willie Parker & Rashard Mendenhall. It’s one thing to win the Super Bowl but its another thing to play in 16 Super Bowls the following season. Prediction: Titans by 4

2. EAGLES @ PANTHERS- Believe it or not this game has playoff implications! Both teams hail from divisions that did not have a team finish below .500 in ’08. Which means in the event the Eagles & Panthers are in a wild card battle the potential tiebreaker would be in head-to-head wins. The Panthers running game seemed to be very effective in the pre-season and the Eagles seemed to struggle finding Brian Dawkins (hitting presence) at the safety position. This could pose as an issue for Philly. But the determining factor in this one will be the QB’s. Delhomme seems to be on the downside of his career and McNabb is motivated like never before to get a two-week head start on the anticipated arrival of one Michael Vick. Look for McNabb to throw the ball 30+ times moving the chains forcing Carolina to get away from their effective ground game. This game will be intense a definite must see at the 1 pm time slot! Prediction: Eagles by 6

3. BEARS @ PACKERS- Sunday Night the Football nation will be treated to a pleasant NFC North surprise, a old-fashioned shootout! A division known for running between the tackles, black & blue-smash-mouth-football, will be in store for a couple of gunslingers for the oldest rivalry in the NFL. When Lovie Smith took the job as Bears head coach he immediately stated his goal of consistently beating the hated Packers. The past 5 seasons Chicago is 4-1 at Lambeau Field. (During/after Favre). As for Green Bay they have a year under their belts with Aaron Rodgers calling the shots and although they struggled last season the team has confidence in their QB. As for the Defense, they’re transitioning from a 4-3 to a 3-4 scheme, which could take some time getting use to for the cheese heads. Their dynamic defensive end Aaron Kampan will no longer be in a 3-point stance rushing off the edge but instead in position as on outside LB, this will create match up problems for both teams. In the end, the Bears have more to prove going for broke to acquire Cutler, look for a more balanced Bears offense while the Packers continue to make adjustments on the defensive side of the ball. Prediction: Bears by 3

4. JAGUARS @ COLTS: No Dungy. No Marvin. No Problem. The Colts always seem to manage to adjust to any shortcomings during the course of a season, this time they had the entire off-season to adjust to the loss of both Tony Dungy and Marvin Harrison. The Jaguars however seems to be in a short term rebuilding mode, cutting ties with their top 3 receivers from last year along with Fred Taylor with the hopes that RB Maurice Jones-Drew can carry the load. With the Colts at home on their customized fast track at Lucas Oil Stadium, look for the reigning MVP (yes Manning was the MVP) to get HIS offense off to a fast start getting all parties involved early and often. There are question marks on the Colts’ defense but the cover 2 can hide a replacement (or two in the secondary) as long as the front 7 applies to proper pressure to David Garrard & MJD. This is another division rival game to open the first weekend so expect fireworks! Prediction: Colts by 10

5. DOLPHINS @ FALCONS: This is probably the most intriguing match-up of opening weekend, between two teams that had 11 wins (and early playoff exits). Many “experts” look for one (or both) teams to fall off their horse and back down to mediocrity in ’09. If I had to guess which team that would be I’d have to say it would be the ‘Fins. They haven’t made any obvious additions to their team that thrived off of 90 Wildcat plays in ’08. Teams will be well prepared for their college style offense and will force players like Ted Ginn Jr. to beat them downfield. As for the Falcons all they did was add one of the greatest Tight Ends in history to their roster in Tony Gonzalez. Matt Ryan now has Roddy White, Gonzalez, Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood as viable weapons at his disposal. Ryan seems to be well ahead of his time, look for the Falcons to be energized by their Georgia Dome crowd as they’ll pull out all stops to get off to a fast start this season. Prediction: Falcons by 7

6. BILLS @ PATRIOTS: This is the game we’ve all been waiting for. The chance for Tom Brady to return after missing last season with an injury. The debut for T.O. in a Bills uniform as he’ll face off with his “era based” rival, Randy Moss. The Patriots have just traded away one of their staples on defense so look for them to use their offensive passing attack to fill the holes left on defense. As for the Bills, they’ll unveil their new (and hopefully improved) no huddle offense. One that is a work in progress. T.O. missed the last 4 pre-season games nursing his big T.O.E!!! And the Bills starting RB Marshawn Lynch will only contribute in this game by playing Madden ’10 while he begins to serve his 3-game suspension. The fact that Moss & Owens will again be on the same field on Monday Night Football is exciting but I’m sure that’s where the parallels will end and the T.O. Show: Season 2 will begin! Prediction: Patriots by 17

III. SAY WHAT!!! (Tweets of the Week)

@alleniverson God Chose Memphis as the place that I will continue my career. I met with Mr. Heinsley, Chris Wallace and my next head coach Lionel Hollins

@TerrellOwens 4 all the haters of #TheTOShow..like skip bayless, jimmy romeo, sheshawn Johnson w/his wack design show, all of espn, Season 2 is official!

@dwadeofficial You can’t say biggie and pac and not say Hov. The Man has it…

@reggie_bush Melanie Oudin! The next womens tennis sensation! Can she beat Serena?

 @SportsVentz I feel like a lil kid on Xmas eve waiting to open his gifts! Except my gifts are in the form of NFL games, Titans @ Steelers tonite...!!!!

By: Kevin Cottrell Jr.

Just A Thought… 

BEWARE OF THE KILLER BEE…For the past three years I’ve submitted my weekly installments of “Thoughtful Thursday”, to shed my light on the world of sports and to also use sports as a metaphor to life. The inspiration behind my weekly blog stems from the words of wisdom provided by Rev Run. So of course it was a pleasure to have an opportunity to thank him yesterday during a book signing. With that said one of my favorite Rev Run quotes came to mind for this week’s edition of TT. Since we were young we’ve been taught to never hold a grudge. Yet the older we are it seems as if we hold our grudges longer! Take the Denver Broncos, new head coach Josh McDaniels got off on a bad note with his franchise QB (Jay Cutler) words exchanged, grudges were held and it eventually led to a bad divorce. As the Coach many felt McDaniels was out of order and needed to smooth things out prior to camp. Not only did that not happen but also it seems as if Coach McDaniels has now alienated his franchise receiver (Brandon Marshall) and he too wants to part like the Red Sea. As its been proven in the past holding a grudge isn’t worth the energy exerted to do so. So, search for that inner child in you whenever you feel like you’re holding a grudge and laugh it off like any other 8-year-old with their lips poked out because its bed time. Remember in sports and in life, “To carry a grudge is like being stung to death by one bee.”- Rev Run.

NBA News & Notes

*RUBIO RANSOM…In April, the Minnesota Timberwolves drafted two point guards back-to-back. Johnny Flynn (Syracuse) & Ricky Rubio (Spain). Rubio was viewed as the second coming of Pistol Pete Mariavich and Wolves fans rejoiced that he would soon arrive to help rebuild their franchise. Then that day never came. Rubio has stated that his buyout from his Spanish team is too large for the Wolves to handle and therefore he would feel more comfortable playing in Barcelona for the next two years prior to his attempt at an NBA career. Hmmm? I know the kid is only 18 but he did enter his name in the NBA draft, correct? Rubio did compete against the likes of Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Jason Kidd in the Summer Olympics, right? Well, why is he “really” not coming to the L. Is it because a big market team didn’t draft him where he would flourish in a wide-open system (like New York Knicks)? I thought so. Look kid the NBA is a MAN’S game so if you think you’re not big enough to compete with the big dogs then say so. But to turn down the Wolves because you don’t want to buy a North Face coat just proves to us all that you’re as soft as tissue paper!

*Day 65:IVERSON ANSWERS Q&A…The past two months we’ve been weighing team options for Allen Iverson. From Memphis to Miami or L.A. (Clippers) to Charlotte one can only guess where the first ballot Hall-of-Famer will land. Well NBA-TV’s Eric Snow set down with his former backcourt mate to get the “Answers” to our questions… 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=96Q56tZE-Ns

NFL News & Notes

*BRADY UNVEILS LOGO: First Jordan created the Jumpan Logo. And before that Jerry West was the NBA logo. Tiger Woods as the (TW), Roger Federer has the “RF” collection and now Tom Terrific has unveiled his new likeness. Apparently the logo is a TB12, seems to be a bit much to me I mean you don’t see “Peyton Manning” with a logo! But then again you don’t see Peyton with a Brazilian model either… 

*MARSHALL LAW: By now many of you have seen the temper-tantrum video of Brandon Marshall lashing out in practice because he’s unhappy with his current contract. He’s entering the final year of a deal that would pay him $2.2Million. Marshall has caught 100+ passes the past 2 seasons so he feels as if he should be paid like the elite (Larry Fitzgerald, Randy Moss, etc.) and many would agree…just not the Broncos. So, its been rumored that the JETS are interested in the disgruntled wideout but Denver’s asking price may be too steep. Who knows, no one expected Jay Cutler to leave the Mile High City so if you’re going to get wet, they might as well swim! Bye bye Brandon!!

*RICKY’S RETIRMENT PLAN- Since Ricky Williams returned to the Dolphins last season he has quietly performed at a high level and recently signed an extension thru the 2010 season. Shockingly he told the Miami Herald that once he contract ends he will retire. Not surprising since he already retired once (because he preferred to smoke weed) but something tells me when the Patriots come calling to sign a player away from their division rival Ricky will have a few more million reasons to chase a Lombardi Trophy…

*STAFFORD VS SANCHEZ: Last season Matt Ryan (Falcons) and Joe Flacco (Ravens) assumed the starting QB role in their rookie seasons and both led their teams to the playoffs. This year Matthew Stafford (Lions) and Mark Sanchez (Jets) hope to accomplish the same feat. But the situations are different. For the Lions they are totally in rebuilding mode. While Stafford will have a few chances to wow fans connecting with Calvin Johnson downfield, Matt will have a tougher time staying on his feet behind such a sub par “O” Line. As for Sanchez, Rex Ryan has focused on building a better defense (which always helps a young QB) and there’s already a solid running game in place with Thomas Jones & Leon Washington. However, the New England Patriots will develop various schemes with hopes of confusing the youngster while other teams will probably blitz the rookie the majority of the time. While both teams have high hopes the reality is Matty Ice & Joe Cool’s of the world don’t come around that often, so the fact that two came last season one should not expect Stafford or Sanchez to provide us with an encore.

*CAN THE PATS GO 16-0…again? By the looks of their offense one would answer YES to this question without a thought. But they’d be wrong. The Pats offensive attack will overwhelm teams through the regular season but New England’s defense is young in the secondary and prone to make big mistakes. There will be a few growing pains for the Pats “D” but their offense will help pick up the slack. I can see the Patriots winning 14 games but 16-0 seems to be farfetched.

*EAGLES GEICO POLICY…Reports out of Eagles/Vick camp is that commissioner Goodell will have a ruling on Vick’s reinstatement by Wednesday’s final cut time at 6:00 pm. It is believed that Michael Vick will be allowed to play by week 3 (meaning he’ll be suspended the first 2 weeks). If this is correct the news would be music to Andy Reid’s ears. Not only will they have clarity on Vick’s status but also it would allow the team to make the proper move with their fourth QB in A.J. Feely. Apparently, the Patriots are interested in traded for the veteran signal caller. As for Vick it will allow him a few more weeks to learn the offense and serve as McNabb’s insurance policy.

NFL Playoff Predictions: In the AFC I predicted the Steelers, Patriots, Chargers, Colts, Ravens and Bills to make the postseason. But who do I see making the AFC title game you ask…

AFC Championship

*Chargers OVER Patriots

As for the NFC my predictions included the Giants, Cardinals, Saints, Bears, Eagles and Vikings to make the postseason. But who will be standing tall late in January…

NFC Championship

*Bears OVER Eagles

III. SAY WHAT!!! (My Random Thoughts)

My World Series Prediction: Yankees over Cardinals

Usain Bolt holds the current World Record in the 100m & 200m. Does he sleep so fast that he only needs 4 hours instead of 8?

So let me get this straight Syracuse Football team needed a QB so bad that they offered a Duke PG the starting gig? I know Coach K teaches excellence buy come on!!

Wait a minute!?? Adam “Pacman” Jones got cut from the Winnipeg “whatevers’ of the CFL before he could even sign his deal. Is it safe to say his Game is officially Over???

I’m going to honestly have to revisit my predictions at the midway point because there are NO clear-cut favorites in the NFC!!!

TWEETS OF THE WEEK

@jemelehill The Detroit Lions just signed Chris Brown's bowtie! the bowtie will run the wildcat offense.

@alleniverson I'll be working out again today in ATL. Spoke w/a couple teams this week and I think we are getting real close to a deal. I hope so!

@DwightHoward Man this is crazy. I'm really in Africa! God is good.

By: Kevin Cottrell Jr. 

Just A Thought...

CHEESE MELT…In case you’re fresh off a vacation to the moon the 40-year-old QB is back from the farm! Yes, a week after Mike Vick signed with a team, Brett Favre decided to steal his spotlight by finally signing with the Vikings. The deal is for 2 years worth $25 Million ($12M first year and $13M second). At 40, many wonder what does he have left in the tank? Is he the final piece to their Super Bowl hopes? And what does he even have left to prove? Then that’s when it hits you, the 3 time MVP (Super Bowl Champ) has all the records a QB can hold (including 464 TDs & 310 INTs) but he has yet to win a game against the Green Bay Packers. The Cheese Head Legend despises of the organization that told him his Cheese Melted! I think it’s worth pointing out Favre Interceptions ended the Jets season in ’08 and the Packers season the year before. While many are quick to point out his many accolades others tend to forget his shortcomings. So in life and in sports always remember that you’re as good as your last performance. Times change people don’t.

NBA News & Notes

*DAY 51: It’s Day 51 of Allen Iverson in Free Agency. Believe it or not A.I. is just as anxious as we are to obtain the “answer” of his final destination. Yesterday he tweeted “My people just informed me that we are getting close to a deal. I asked them to call me the when its done. I am so ready to know!”  He also stated that he assumed the call would come from the Knicks, Heat or Bobcats. But in my expert estimation 2 out of the 3 are not in the running and here’s why.

1. The KNICKS are still highly interested in Bucks G Ramon Sessions and would rather pay him for a year (than a future hall-of-famer).
2. As for the HEAT they recently traded for veteran G/F Quentin Richardson. The former 3-Point Shootout winner loves putting up shots and his $9 Million salary will allow him to do so. Q’s salary will further hinder the signing of A.I. at the full mid-level exception ($5+ million) that he desires.
3. Which leaves the BOBCATS. Charlotte is in need of a perimeter scorer as well as a player that could help sell tickets (DING-DING-DING) A.I. is the “Answer” to both. Also, Iverson ex-coach Larry Brown has been recently quoted as saying, “I want to help him, and it might be as his coach again. We’ll have to wait and see.” Hopefully we won’t have to wait much longer.

*WHITE CHOCOLATE: The Orlando Magic has seemingly completed the restructuring of their roster by signing veteran PG Jason Williams (white chocolate). J. Will helped the Heat win a ring in 2006 and the vet will compete with Anthony Johnson for the backup spot to Jameer Nelson.

*AMAR’EYE: Amar’e Stoudemire has begun individual workouts after months of recovering from eye surgery. This is good news for Suns fans and great news for fans of contending teams “one player away” from a title. Before you know it he’ll be scrimmaging again and rumors will begin to swirl that he’s back on the trading block.

NFL News & Notes 

*BIG DUMMY AWARD…Last fall Giants wideout Plaxico Burress shot himself inside a NYC nightclub, which led to his arrest for carrying an unlicensed weapon. After turning down an earlier plea deal that would have given Burress 3 months in prison (along with community service) Plaxico just caught a deal for 2 years in prison (serving roughly 20 months in prison) along with 2 years of probation. At 32, Burress who once caught the winning touchdown in the Super Bowl can kiss his career goodbye. Many will say, “Vick did 2 years and got signed”, but Vick was under 30 upon his release! Sorry Plax from one former WR to another, you’ve won the Big Dummy Award!

*ODD MAN OUT… Lost in all the Favre hoopla is the odd man out in the Vikings QB shuffle. Reports out of the Twin Cities state the team is attempting to trade or release former first rounder Tarvaris Jackson by Friday. This is quite shocking to some seeing as though he entered camp as the #1 QB this summer. Then again last season Favre’s arrival in New York prompted Chad Pennington’s departure. Like Chad eventual destination within the division reports are that the Lions are attempting to swing a deal for Jackson (merely for his knowledge of the Vikings playbook). The Favre domino effect is what that never seems to end. San Fran needs to jump in the sweepstakes right after immediately!

* NEW ‘FINS OWNERS…Reports out of South Florida state Venus & Serena Williams are close to finalizing a deal to become minority owners for the Miami Dolphins. The Palm Beach Gardens residents would join the likes of J. Lo & Marc Anthony along with Gloria Estefan. This move would be pretty big since there are ZERO African-American owners in the L. The move would definitely be the ultimate ace for the Williams’.

NFL DIVISION Breakdowns: Over the past three weeks I’ve broken-down two divisions (one representing each conference). Last week we featured the AFC/NFC South divisions. Now we’ll take a look at a division featuring the defending Champs and another that was previously known as the Black & Blue division and now it’s the QB division! Here’s a brief outlook and predicted finish.

AFC North (last season record)

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4): The defending champs managed to keep the bulk of their roster together after hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Many teams see their main contributors get big paydays elsewhere but after winning their second ring in 4 seasons. Surprisingly they’ve managed to retain 15 players from both teams, mainly Big Ben and Troy Polamalu leaders on both sides of the ball. In their case it won’t come down to Xs and Os, it will simply be about health and experience.  Prediction: 12-4
2. Baltimore Ravens (11-5): After suffering heartbreak at the hands of their division rival in the AFC Conference Championship game, the Purple Birds are poised for one last run in the Ray Lewis era. The biggest loss this season will be LB Bart Scott (along w/Def. Coord. Rex Ryan) for a decade the pulse of this team has been defense and this year will be no different. Hopefully some youth inserted around Ray Lewis will help him get a bit younger. This team will be taken seriously so hopefully their Defense (and offense) can accept the challenge. Prediction: 10-6
3. Cleveland Browns (4-12) the adage goes if you have two quarterbacks then you don’t have one. The Browns are conducting one of the hottest QB Battles in the L as we speak, but we all know Brady Quinn will start the season off for the Browns. Question is will he finish it for them? Either way Cleveland has a long way to go before they are in the “Playoff” conversation. In fact, their Super Bowl will be whenever they play their Ohio counterparts in the Bengals. Prediction: 6-10
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-11-1) it seems to truly be a HARD KNOCK life in Cincy. The first episode of the new HBO darlings featured their top 2 Tight Ends going down with serious injuries. Then episode two showed their prize in Carson Palmer injuring his ankle. Chris Henry still seems to not have it all up top and Chad is too busy tweeting to get on the same page with Palmer. Sorry to all Bengals fans but there isn’t much to analyze about your Cats so to anyone thinking Playoffs for the Bengals I’ve got two words for you…”Child Please!” Prediction: 5-11

NFC North

1. Minnesota Vikings (10-6) You’re not seeing double the Vikings are my early favorite to win the NFC North! Trust me this was not an easy decision but the team is solid (if not loaded) at every position. The Williams boys anchor a tough defense. Adrian Peterson scares opposing defenses and they have weapons outside in Berrian and Percy Harvin to stretch the safeties. Oh yea and they’ve even added Brett Favre. Hmmmm at first glance this team is a runaway favorite to win the North and possibly the NFC but if this team comes out the gate struggling fingers will quickly be pointed at the late addition of BF4! On paper they’re the favorites in my book but on turf things could change. Prediction: 11-5
2. Chicago Bears (9-7) My heart tells me this is my Bears year but my football mind says Chicago’s secondary couldn’t stop a Big 12 offense right now. Their lack of depth in the secondary will put more pressure on the front-7 to disrupt opposing QB’s. Speaking of QB’s the Bears pulled off the blockbuster move of the summer in acquiring Pro Bowler Jay Cutler. Only problem is the Monsters of the Midway are struggling to produce a true #1 WR. If this player emerges (not a Tight End or Running Back) then the Bears will truly be a force in the NFC playoff picture. Stay tuned. Prediction: 10-6
3. Green Bay Packers (6-10) The second year of the Aaron Rodgers experiment is currently underway. Last season wasn’t that bad considering whom he followed, the only problem was the defense. The black shirts have transformed from a 4-3 base to a 3-4 scheme, which they will still be learning on the fly. The Packers may suffer from this transformation and the pressure of Favre back in the North may cause a lot of knee jerk reactions. The Packers offense will keep them competitive but their defense may be the downfall. Prediction: 8-8
4. Detroit Lions (0-16) Look let’s keep this short. The Lions were 0-16 last season. They drafted QB Matthew Stafford out of Georgia #1 overall as their future and savior. Best-case scenario they win 3 games and they’ve tripled their win total from last season. I’m not going to waste anymore of your time on this one. Prediction: 3-13

III. SAY WHAT!!! (Tweets of the Week & My Thoughts J)

Terrellowens Hey hey heyyyy!! I’m back n good ol’ Buffalo! The toe is getting better 4 those tht wanna kno, I gotta b a 100% on Sept. 14^th!!. (My take: Seems like T.O. doesn’t want any part of the preseason like most vets. He’ll be fine Bills fans)

Jalenrose A pack of wild dogs killed an elderly couple in Georgia…tame your animals! (My take: Did their owners get 23 months in prison? Or lose $130M?)

OGOchoCinco Attention all athletes, build a bunker at home and stay there until your career is over, you want to party, bring the club to you!!!!!! (Plaxico’s Take: Gee Thanks, would’ve been great advice a year ago!)

By: Kevin Cottrell, Jr.

Just A Thought...

Do you believe in MAGIC?? On Friday Aug. 14th, Ervin "Magic" Johnson will turn 50 years old. To some it's the Big 5-0 or the half century mark, but to Magic it took many blessings and hard work. You see over 17 years ago, Magic announced to the world that he had contracted the HIV virus. While rumors swirled that he was cured his simply been in remission. Doctors are known for giving patients with terminal diseases timelines on living but one's individual actions will truly determine their lifespan, just as in sports. You see no athlete performs at a high level over long periods of time without being determined, dedicated and hard working. So whether you're fighting a disease or fighting for a promoting always remember that your "actions will set your timeline" don't just sit around expecting Magic to happen!

NBA News

Rambis Gets Revenge on McHale!! Tuesday Kurt Rambis decided he would no longer be Phil Jackson's "D-Coordinator" and took a leap to assume one of the toughest head coaching jobs in the NBA, with the Minnesota Timberwolves...He's inherited a team that couldn't win with KG so the fact that they're relying on an 18-yr old (unproven) Spainard should raise an eyebrow or two. Good Luck Kurt! And for those of you that don't know Rambis is replacing the aforementioned Kevin McHale as coach, click the link below to see how the once crossed paths!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7r6vXeOfyQ

NFL News & Notes

*****BREAKING NEWS****** 

Vick Update: Sorry if you read my previous Michael Vick report but he has signed with the PHILADELPHIA EAGLES!!! A 2year deal in which he'll receive $1.6 Million in the first year and $5 Million in the second year. Congrats to the Vick for making a return and kudos to the Eagles for having the "Spaldings" to sign him. And to members of PETA, I dare you take on the fans in Philadelphia (remember they booed Santa Claus) that won't be a good look! All of a sudden the EAGLES @ FALCONS game (Dec. 6th) just became the hottest event in the A since FreakNic!

NFL Division Breakdowns: This week we'll venture south to break down two divisions that are competitive and exciting. These divisions have Fantasy darlings like Peyton Manning and Michael Turner. Great brewing rivalries like the Saints vs. Falcons and the Colts vs. Titans. Here are more of my season outlooks and Predicted order of finish.

NFC South. (Last season record)

1. New Orleans Saints (8-8) - Every year the team to finish last in the previous season, bounces back the following year with a 1st place finish. This year things will remain consistent. The Saints really improved defensively which has been their Achilles in the past. However, much of their success will hinge upon the health and progress of Reggie Bush & Marques Colston. Bush started last year on fire prior to being injured. Marques battled injuries all of '08. With both in the lineup along w/Brees the Saints will be in the thick of things come Postseason. PREDICTION: 11-5

2. Atlanta Falcons (11-5)-I must admit the addition of Tony Gonzalez makes the dirty birds a "sexy" pick but losing WR/PR Harry Douglas for the season really "turned me off." The stable running game with Turner/Norwood will keep things close for the Falcons it will be up to Tony/Roddy White to make the big plays in those tough games down the stretch. There's definitely a Wild Card in the Falcons' deck! PREDICTION: 9-7

3. Carolina Panthers (12-4)-Carolina always seems to have a great nucleus prior to training camp but before you know it they're bit by the injury bug. Last year QB Jake Delhomme was coming off Tommy John surgery. This year his favorite target (Steve Smith) injured his shoulder. Hopefully they do sign Vick because their QB is 34 yrs old and may never be the same. This is a tough team that will battle but their Super Window is closing as we speak. PREDICTION: 8-8

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)-Tampa has a new coach and 3 new QBs to choose from. The adage is that if you have 2 QBs you have none, so in Tampa's case they're all but done (it rhymes I know). Look this ain't your Older Brother's Bucs when they featured Sapp, Brooks, Dunn and Alstott. They are in rebuilding mode and will serve as this years NFC South doormat. But just as previous last place teams in the division, there's always next year to look forward too! PREDICTION: 6-10

AFC South

1. Indianapolis Colts (12-4) The biggest difference between this year and last year's Colts has absolutely nothing to do with the departure of Tony Dungy or Marvin Harrison. It has all to do with a healthy Peyton Manning. Last season Big Bro missed the entire preseason as he rehabbed a scoped knee. The time off affected his timing with his wide outs, now his healthy again and is clicking on all cylinders with the likes of Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark & Co. I know Bob Sanders is never healthy and the old reliable Marvin is not in uni but as long as Peyton is healthy he'll be the coach on and off the field. Lucas Oil will be on fire this fall! PREDICTION: 12-4

2. Tennesee Titans (13-3) - Remember the ('08) Titans?? Good because that team will soon be an after thought. They will not be able to sneak up on anyone and Kerry Collins will not be able to perform at a high level for an entire 16 game season. In the backfield both Chris Johnson and LenDale White aspire to be "the man" and Vince Young is more focused on being inducted into the Hall of Fame as opposed to being inducted to the starting lineup. I still like this solid squad but not to rule the South yet again. PREDICTION: 10-6

3. Houston Texans (8-8) The Texans have been knocking on the "playoff door" for a while now. When many thought they ruined their franchise by passing on Reggie Bush for Mario Williams the naysayers were too busy hating to see that defense wins titles and that's what the Texans were focused on. Mario has made a Pro Bowl (Reggie just keep making tabloids) and Andre Johnson continues to be the Rodney Dangerfield of the NFL Wide outs. If Matt Schaub manages to play for the entire season you may be looking at a wild card participant. Keep your eyes on this team (especially if they are on your favorite team's regular season schedule). PREDICTION: 9-7

4. Jaguars (5-11) - To be blunt there's nothing to like about the Jags. David Garrard is a solid backup (at best). Fred Taylor rushed out of town and is now a Patriot. As for their wide outs they let ago of the top 3 leading receivers from '08 and brought in an aging Torry Holt! Unfortunately every division has a doormat and you're currently standing on this one. PREDICTION: 7-9

Quick Thoughts

 I know most Athletes think they are rappers/singers/musicians....but this attempt at merging basketball and rap is pure comedy....(Rashard Lewis, Kevin Durant, Mo Williams & Andre Iquodala) www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gc72CaMsqQY

After watching the first episode of HBO's: "Hard Knocks", my first impression is...They suck! Unfortunately for them they lost their top two Tight Ends in the first week of camp and Carson Palmer & Chad Johnson didn't seem to be on the same page. Looks like the H.K curse will continue.

TWEETS of the WEEK! (With my 2 cents)               

serenajwilliams Someone say something nice to me. I'm miserable and super down!!! ;( Someone take me shopping please????? (My Take: Serena would like any place I could afford! LOL)

THE_REAL_SHAQ Bout to go up against albert pujols. Hell yea im nervous. How many think i can at least hit one home (My Take: Shaq will cool off St. Louis with all his fanning! Striiiiiiiike)

NBATVSteve On the way to support the Atlanta Dream and Detroit Shock and Rick Mahorn. (My Take: Sorry Smitty that makes 1 of us!)

96TruwarierQB Please:) everyone go illegally download my first album and hear the growth when my second album drops:) (My Take: That was from Ron Artest, I told you they all wanna be rappers! LOL