By: Kevin Cottrell Jr. 

Just A Thought...

GREENER PASTURES...Ever stepped out of your proverbial door in life and wonder why your neighbor's grass was greener than yours? Have you ever asked them their secret? Well in sports athletes tend to envy others manicured grass and eventually opt to hop that fence! In fact, last Tuesday Allen Iverson and the Nuggets questioned their ability to win with A.I. in uniform and they figured his best answer would be to get traded to the Detroit Pistons. Sure the Nuggets have struggled in the past. Sure the Pistons have reached six straight Conference finals but yet in still when Iverson arrived in the Motor City he still had to assume his role on the Piston assembly line. As for Chauncey Billups, he's already obtained Iverson's ultimate goal of winning a title (and being named MVP) and he now gets to perform in front of his home crowd. But keep in mind Chauncey was happy to be in Detroit. One week later Billups has led Denver to a 3-0 record while Iverson & Co. have struggled with a dismal 1-2 record. Sure the season is early and the Pistons may still reach their seventh straight Conference Final but for Iverson to obtain the beautiful green grass he's still going to have to mow that lawn.

I. NFL Week 11 Predictions: (Last Week: 7-7) Sure last week was mediocre and while I too could opt for greener pastures I've decided to trim my predicting hedges and get back on track in week 11. All 32 teams will be in action beginning with an AFC East battle tonight! Here we go!

1. Jets (6-3) @ Patriots (6-3) (Th. 8:15 pm NFL Network)- The last time these two teams met Tom Brady and the Patriots were set to complete their goal of winning the Super Bowl and Brett Favre and the Jets were just trying to learn each others strengths and weaknesses. 10 weeks and an injured Tom Brady later, the two are set to face off for sole possession of the AFC East lead. The Patriots seem to be clicking on offense once again despite Brady's absence. Obviously the scoreboard isn't ringing up at its record-setting '07 pace but the chains are moving. As for the Jets Favre has yet to consistently make plays down the field but on the heels of RB Thomas Jones, Brett has been limited to simply managing the game. But this isn't any game. In Foxborough the forecast is cold and rainy which means conditions will be sloppy, if Jones isn't able to find creases in the Pats' defense, Brett will be expected to drop back and make key throws down the field in the midst of the slop. While Favre is the all-time leader in touchdowns he too sits in first in the interception category. Although Brady will be absent the Patriots should come out with the same result. W. Prediction: PATRIOTS by 7

2. Broncos (5-4) @ Falcons (6-3) (1:00 CBS)- Quick ask yourself, do you believe....in the Falcons? Yes, after coming off a season where their franchise QB was sent to prison, their first year coach quit...prior to the end of the season and they drafted a QB and put the team on his shoulders from day one, who knew they would be in position to win their division? Sure you did...As the Broncos look to bring their high-powered offense into the Georgia Dome the Falcons will feature their underrated pass defense that forced Drew Brees into three interceptions last week. Broncos QB Jay Cutler has played at a Pro Bowl level at times (along with WR Brandon Marshall) but it's their defense that keeps opponents hanging around. After attending a Falcons game this season my belief is that it will be tough for anyone to come in the dome and defeat the dirty birds. If you don't believe me their 4-0 home record will answer all of your questions. Prediction: FALCONS by 3

3. Bears (5-4) @ Packers (4-5) (1:00 FOX): When Bears head coach Lovie Smith accepted the responsibility of leading the Monsters of the Midway the first thing he committed to as Head Coach was defeating the Green Bay Packers. Not only has Smith been successful in doing so he's won 8 out of 10 meetings between their Cheesy rivals. But enough with the history lesson, the Packers defense is hobbled. And their ability to stop the run is non-existent. With Bears rookie sensation Matt Forte coming to town this will pose a problem for the Lambeau Leapers. Look for Chicago to come out and control the clock running the ball and involving their tight ends. Without the services of Packers LB Nick Barnett their defense will have to alter their attack. This game will live up to its billing with a lot of hitting and trash talking but as long as Lovie Smith is manning the sidelines the outcome should remain the same. Prediction: BEARS by 6

4. Titans (9-0) @ Jaguars (4-5) (4:15 CBS)- The Titans will travel to Jacksonville boasting a league best 9-0. Every week that they win their bulls eye gets bigger and their schedule couldn't be any tougher traveling to a division foe that has absolutely nothing to lose. The Jags' have been known for the tough defense but their offense has struggled as of late. If the Titans can't find a way to gain more than 20 yards on 29 rushes as they did against Chicago, the Jags' will make their flight home a long one. One of the toughest things to do in football is run the ball on the road but the only thing tougher is actually winning on the road. If you really want to know my "expert" opinion, the Titans are simply due for a loss. Prediction: JAGUARS by 3

**GAME OF THE WEEK**

5. Cowboys (5-4) @ Redskins (6-3) (8:15, NBC)- The Game of the Week features yet another NFC rival that will face off after regrouping during their bye week. The 'Skins may be without Clinton Portis and the 'Boys are hoping to come in to Landover with a healthy (and effective) Tony Romo. Nevertheless, the biggest difference between the two rivals is that the Cowboys had extra time to acclimate their newest addition in WR Roy Williams. In the past few weeks he's literally had to learn on the fly but with an extra week of reps without being injured will allow Tony and Roy to get a better feel for one another and simply make life difficult for opposing defenses. The Redskins have been playing well all season long but with the Cowboys backs being slammed against the wall I expect them to come out swinging and throwing down field. This game too should live up to its hype and the road team shall be victorious. Prediction: COWBOYS by 6

***Quick Picks***

Eagles over Bengals

Colts over Texans

Saints over Chiefs

Dolphins over Raiders

Giants over Ravens

Vikings over Buccaneers

Panthers over Lions

49ers over Rams

Cardinals over Seahawks

Steelers over Chargers

Browns over Bills

II. Sports Ventz

 By: Kevin Cottrell, Jr. 
Just a Thought... A Thoughtful Tuesday....Its been said that great minds think alike, so when President elect Barack Obama made history on Tuesday I wondered who was he on the same wavelength with. Was it Jackie Robinson who became the first African-American baseball player? Or Fritz Pollard who became the first African-American football player? Maybe it was Ernie Davis when he overcame the odds to become the first African-American to win the heisman trophy or Tiger Woods for Mastering the game of Golf in 1997....then again he is based out of Chicago so maybe it was Lovie Smith (Bears Head Coach) and Tony Dungy (Colts Head Coach) who became the first African-Americans to lead their teams to the Super Bowl...while all of these men broke the color barrier in their own special way none of them thought like Obama. In fact, they all played a game they loved and it just so happened that they were all black. As for President Obama, you see he was sick and tired of the war, struggling economy, poor educational system and the high unemployment rate so what he did was instill hope to us all. He wanted us to know that together WE can change the way of the world. He started out by convincing us "Yes We Can" make a difference and all become the first to have say so in the first African-American President. So on November 4th many would attribute his thought process to those mentioned above but there were millions of people who stood in lines across America to state that they too thought like President Obama...so you are to thank for this milestone and no longer will we chant "Yes We Can" but instead we must say...."Yes We Did"....I guess great minds do think alike.
 I. NFL Week 10 Predictions (Last week 10-4) Last week was another productive week for your resident predictions guru (that is if you play in the NFC West). This week many teams will attempt to distance themselves in heated division races and others are simply trying to keep pace with the frontrunners. Here's a look into my NFL Crystal Ball!!!
 1. Broncos (4-4) @ Browns (3-5) (Thur. 8:15 pm, NFL Network)- Yes it's that time of year! Football is in midseason form and games our aired midweek! Tonight the Broncos will travel to Cleveland for a shootout with first time starter Brady Quinn and the Browns. This game has more importance and interest now that the "Golden Boy" finally gets a chance to do more than he has in his Vitamin commercials! The Browns have been clicking when Braylon Edwards has held on to the ball and the Broncos started out with an seemingly impossible to stop offense (and help from officials) before they were brought down to earth. So what will this game come down to? Home field advantage. Both teams are trying to salvage their season and the Browns seem to have more to prove with the switch at QB and the inconsistent play from their Pro Bowl wideout. The team will rally around Brady and the night will be electrifying since both defenses have issues with defending the pass. Prediction: BROWNS by 3   
2. Saints (4-4) @ Falcons (5-3) (1 pm, FOX)-This NFC South rivalry will be in full effect in the Georgia Dome come Sunday. Many experts sexy pick to reach the Super Bowl (Saints) currently sit in last place in their division. Meanwhile the Falcons have put on display one of the most balanced offenses in the L in the first 8 games of the season. Michael Turner runs through the opposition and Roddy White seems to run by them. So what will be the key for the Saints to hand the Falcons their first home defeat of the year? Placing pressure on their defense early and often. The Falcons have gotten off to hot starts in the dome this season and if the Saints can strike early and often it will put pressure on Matt Ryan to win the game through the air and eliminate the Michael Turner dynamic. For the Saints offense that should be a Brees. Prediction: SAINTS by 10
 3. Titans (8-0) @ Bears (5-3) (1pm, CBS)- Throughout the first two months of the season the Titans have been the status quo in the NFL. They've defeated their opponents by stopping the run (anchored by Big Albert Haynesworth) and running effectively with Lendale White and rookie speedster Chris Johnson. So as they traveled to Soldiers Field Sunday this game should be a walk in the park, right? Not exactly. One of the toughest things to do in the NFL is win on the road. Another thing is its tough to run the ball on the road (especially if it's a team like the Bears) with that said for one of the first times QB Kerry Collins will have to lead Tennessee to victory with his arm and that may pose as a problem. The Bears defense is at full-strength and after holding Detroit to 0 points in the second half last Sunday they may have regained their swagger. All good things must come to an end Tennessee fans and their undefeated road may end....on the road Sunday. Prediction: BEARS by 4 
 4.Colts (4-4) @ Steelers (6-2) (4:15 pm, CBS)- Three weeks ago I thought the Colts would be headed towards a six game winning streak...I guess the next time I decide to make such a bold prediction I should at least take a look at their schedule. Yikes! Coming off the tough victory over the Patriots at home, Manning & Co. will travel to Pittsburgh to take on the best defense in the league. After Roethlesberger had an MRI to show that he shoulder had no serious damage the bad news only piled on for the Colts. The 3-4 scheme played by the Steelers has been one that has given Indy problems in the past and with the Colts' inability to move the ball at will it will be interesting to see how Peyton, Reggie and Marvin adjust to the Steelers aggressive play. But one does not have time wonder that's why they play the games (and look at schedules). Prediction: STEELERS by 7 
***Game of the Week*** 5. Giants (7-1) @ Eagles (5-3) (8:15 pm, NBC)- For the past several years the toughest division in the NFC has been the East so it shouldn't come as a surprise that this is my game of the week. Last season the Giants dominated the Eagles sacking McNabb 10 times but 6 of them were by the injured Osi Umenyiora. Nevertheless the Giants are still one of the most aggressive Defensive units in the league and the Eagles have one of the most dynamic west coast offenses in the L. So which unit wins? My guess would be the home team offense. The Philly crowd will be into the game the dink and dunk passes from McNabb setting up deep plays will keep the G-Men on their heels and set them up for only their second loss of the season. If the Giants expect to make a difference they've got to keep McNabb & Co. off the field. Easier said than done...    Prediction: EAGLES by 7
 ***Quick Picks*** Jaguars over Lions Seahawks over Dolphins Patriots over Bills Jets over Rams Ravens over Texans Panthers over Raiders Chargers over Chiefs Cardinals over 49ers Packers over Vikings   
Bye week: Bengals, Buccaneers, Cowboys, Redskins 
II. Sports Ventz

By: Kevin Cottrell, Jr.

 

Just a Thought...

FAN NIGHT...Last Tuesday NBA-TV launched an interactive night where you the FAN can determine what game they will air the following Tuesday! How cool is that? How often have you rushed home on a Monday Night to come home to a bad Bengals team facing off with the offensively challenged Ravens? All that will change in the NBA because all you have to do is cast your vote on NBA.com and you the FAN will have an opportunity to dictate what game the nation sees. Well if you think this sounds cool this coming Tuesday will blow you away! That's right this coming Tuesday is FAN NIGHT of a different sort...you the citizen or fan will have the opportunity to go to your local polls and dictate which team you'd rather see take this country to the promise land. You've heard their forums, you've seen their strengths, they've both trained for this day for the past 21 months but it all comes down to you the fan. Keep in mind that no two teams could ever win on the same night. So be sure to view the scouting reports and come this Tuesday make this political FAN NIGHT one to remember. Ahhh who am I kidding you know who my vote is for...BARACK OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT!

I. NFL Week 9 Predictions (Last week 10-4) Last week was more like 10 wins but the only problem is that may only get me a wild card spot in the AFC. So far another attempt at a Patriots like week take a look at my Week 10 picks!

 

1. Packers (4-3) @ Titans (7-0) (1 pm, FOX)- This match-up is an official "trap game". The Titans are coming off the emotional high defeating their division nemesis in the Colts. At the end of that game Titans players were so excited they walked around holding up 7 fingers as if they were 16-0! That was then, the Packers are now! Look for Aaron Rodgers and the three step offense to attack the blitz happy Titans. This game will definitely be close but the Titans have yet to face a truly effective offense. As for Green Bay they watched the Titans claw out the win against the Colts like the rest of the nation so when they travel to Nashville this Sunday they won't be there to visit the Country Hall of Fame.Prediction: PACKERS by 4
2. Jets (4-3) @ Bills (5-2) (1 pm, CBS)- This is a huge game and not because Brett Favre is one of the starting QBs. In fact, the winner of this game will have an opportunity to keep pace or even tie the division leading Patriots. But first thing first, the Bills are a team that cliques at every facet of the game. Their special teams sets up there offense with great field position. Their defense flies to the ball and their offense knows how to punch it in on the ground or through the air. As for the Jets, they've yet to play their best football, yet they're one game out of first place. The thing is Favre is liable to erupt at anytime and with a big game on the line he's prime to erupt. But pay close attention to the injury report the Favre man reportedly has a "sore arm" so the Bills will look to attack that lethal weapon. The Bills were picked apart by the Dolphins so look for them to take it out on the Jets this Sunday. Prediction: BILLS by 7
3. Patriots (5-2) @ Colts (3-4) (8:15 pm, NBC)- This game is huge but not on the same level as their undefeated match-ups in the past. The Colts are trying to salvage their season and the Patriots are trying to distance themselves in the AFC East. The Pats are regaining their swagger even with the absence of Tom Brady. Matt Cassell is beginning to prove that he can play in the NFL posting a 5-2 record in his first 7 games (Brady was 4-3). As for the Colts Peyton Manning may have the services of Addai returning but his effectiveness is still in question. The Colts will be sharpening their "no huddle" skills to wear down a banged up Patriots offense. This game will be played in prime time on Sunday Night so expect the stars to come out. Both teams have not played their best so as in the past the two will clash for 60 minutes. In a game this tight you've got to give the nod to the home team. Prediction: COLTS by 3
4. Steelers (5-2) @ Redskins (6-2) (8:30 pm, MNF ESPN) Is it me or have the Redskins overachieved? Whether you feel so or not the 'Skins have defeated the teams on their schedule and they are in position to prove that they belong among the NFL elite. The Steelers will travel to Landover on Monday Night for another shot at an NFC East team. Last week they struggled with the Giants because of New York's ability to pressure the quarterback. If the 'Skins defense can not get to Big Ben then they're in for a long night. Offensively for the 'Skins their best bet to win is by establishing the run. With the Steelers having Polamalu to roam around the line of scrimmage, the 'Skins will eventually have to depend on Jason Campbell to drop back and beat Pittsburgh with his arm. Keep in mind that this is a Monday Night game and crazy things are destined to happen. Pediction: STEELERS by 10                              

 

 

***Game of the Week***

 

5. Cowboys (5-3) @ Giants (6-1) (4:15 pm, FOX-) The struggling Cowboys will travel to the Meadowlands in an attempt to keep their heads above NFC East water heading into their bye week. The Giants on the other hand leads the league in sacks and will look to attack the statuesque Brad Johnson as he stands aimlessly in the pocket. This game will be played close because the Cowboys defense will keep things close by stopping their tough and elusive run game early on. But if the Cowboys can't get T.O. and Roy going early on in the game the 'Boys may be staring at 4 losses going into their bye week (they only had 3 all of last year). There is a lot at stake in this game but without the services of Tony Romo I can't see a scenario where the 'Boys come out victorious. Prediction: GIANTS by 4

    

   ***Quick Picks***

   Bears over Lions

   Jaguars over Bengals

   Buccaneers over Chiefs

   Eagles over Seahawks

   Browns over Ravens

   Falcons over Raiders

   Broncos over Dolphins

   Vikings over Texans

   Cardinals over Rams

    

   Bye week: Saints, Chargers, 49ers, Panthers

    

    

By: Kevin Cottrell, Jr.

 Just a Thought...

TIMING...Shhhh! Do you hear that? (tic-toc-tic-toc-tic....) it's the sound of time! Every second, every minute we're faced with options and the decisions we make may change us and or others for years to come. So what does that mean? (tic-toc-tic-toc) it's all about timing! Right now you could easily be chatting it up on facebook or watching a hilarious video on youtube but instead you chose to get the latest greatest news surrounding sports. You may be missing out on your friends most recent photos but instead you'll be viewed as a Sporting Genius with your insight around cooler talk...Tic-toc-tic-toc... Think about it? Who knew that a scrawny kid named Michael Jordan (who was passed over by two teams in the '84 Draft) would become the greatest player of all time and change the culture of not only the city of Chicago but the NBA as we know it! Everyone thought the Patriots would finish with a perfect season last year, but it was the Giants destiny to overcome adversity and become the NFL Champions. See it's all about timing...Shaq and Kobe may not get along but for three straight titles that didn't matter at all (oh yea Kobe was traded on draft night the same season Shaq signed with LA). Timing in sports and in life isn't everything...it's the ONLY thing! Please be mindful of your timing. No one or nothing can deny you of your destiny, sure they may postpone it but reaching your destiny is inevitable. (tic-toc-tic-toc) Embrace every second like a last possession in basketball because eventually your time will run out! (Buzzer Sounding!!!!) I. NFL Week 8 Predictions (Last week 5-9) Last week I got knocked around like a Lions quarterback! I took big hits all over my predictions! The Cowboys, Chargers, Colts and Saints all let me down. And to think they're all "sexy" Super Bowl picks. So much for my timing! Well that was then and this is now, it's my time to shine in this week's predictions! Let's take a look...

 

1. Falcons (4-2) @ Eagles (3-3) (1 pm, FOX)- For six weeks the NFL nation has been waiting for the Baby Birds to come back down to earth, but as you can see by their record they continue to fly high. As for the Eagles their play has failed to reach its potential and they find themselves in the cellar of the NFC East division. Both teams are coming off a bye week so with the afternoon clash set to kick-off in Philly all eyes will be on the clash of both Birds. Matt Ryan has looked like a veteran in the pocket playing as cool as a fan down the stretch in big games (see Chicago). This has been the case because teams have failed to put pressure on Ryan which just so happens to be the Eagles specialty. McNabb and company were able to take their week off to get their offense back on track. The hobbled RB Brian Westbrook has been on the practice field all week which will give Falcons coaches more to worry besides their defensive pressure. Keep your eyes open this game will be entertaining.  Prediction: EAGLES by 7
2. Browns (2-4) @ Jaguars (3-3) (4:05 pm, CBS)- Despite what their combined 5-7 records say this game is equally important for both squads. The Browns can pretty much pack their off-season bags with an L on the season and the Jags are already 3 games behind the Titans in their division so a loss would have them scouting talent for the NFL Draft. That's why they play the games. The Browns offense seems to be clicking on all cylinders but they'll have to prove it again on the road against a hard-hitting Jaguars defense. With Kellen Winslow sitting in timeout for his comments about the organization this isn't the weekend for the Browns to be fighting for their season. Look for the Jags to blitz Anderson early and don't be surprised if you see Brady Quinn before the end of the game.  Prediction: JAGUARS by 10
3. Colts (3-3) @ Titans (6-0) (8:30 pm, MNF ESPN)- A couple weeks ago I stated that the Colts we go on a six game winning streak. Okay so they only won 2 in a row (but even a broken clock is right twice a day). With that said the Colts got knocked around the field last week so I expect for them to mix in their running game more and install more 3-step drop plays for Manning, in order to move the ball against the aggressive Titans defense. If Tennessee wants to all but wrap up their division on Sunday they've got to be smart on Defense and control the clock on offense. I know Kerry Collins has been playing lights out ball but he doesn't want to get in a shootout with Peyton. But under the bright Monday Night lights you've got to expect crazy things to happen. Normally the Colts are sitting and 6-0 and the Titans are the ones chasing them in the division but times have change (as they always do) but I still believe this is the Colts division to lose.  Prediction: COLTS by 3
4. Chargers (3-4) @ Saints (3-4) (1 pm CBS)- These two teams have been so disappointing the league has decided to send them across the pond to face off in London...Okay so it was scheduled prior to their stinky play, but its true at times these teams have looked incredible then at other times they look like they belong in NFL Europa! Bush is out and L.T. isn't effective so the team that can move the ball through the air more effectively will come out on top. Look for Brees to pass the ball around at will with the return of Shockey and Colston. As for the Chargers they'll do all they can to spark some magic in London but the travel will eventually catch up to them. Prediction: SAINTS by 6                                                           

***Game of the Week***

 

1. Giants (5-1) @ Steelers (5-1) (4:15 pm, FOX-)- This game will be tabbed as the potential "Super Bowl Preview" but please don't go running to Vegas there's still alot of football to be played. The Giants have looked like the Champs they are for the past few weeks and the Steelers have played smash mouth Steel curtain football, only difference is Big Ben and his receiving core have managed to mix in big plays down field. Look for the Giants to do their best to ring Big Ben's bell as he's taken many hits through the first 6 games of their season, if Ben is ineffective through the air Pittsburgh fans will eventually be ringing another bell...the Boooooooo Bell! Prediction: GIANTS by 3

    

   ***Quick Picks***

    

   Cowboys over Buccaneers

   Redskins over Lions

   Bills over Dolphins

   Patriots over Rams

   Jets over Chiefs

   Ravens over Raiders

   Bengals over Texans

   Niners over Seahawks

    

   Bye week: Bears, Packers, Broncos, Vikings

    

   II. Sports Ventz (NBA Style)

   The NBA Season begins in 5 days. So instead of my weekly vents I'm going to give you my projected Division winners, NBA Awards and yes the Finals Champion. Without further introduction here's your 2008-09 NBA Outlook!

    

   I. EASTERN CONFERENCE (Division Winners)

   Atlantic- BOSTON CELTICS

   Central-   CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

   SouthEast- ORLANDO MAGIC 

    

    East Playoff Picture

   1.      Boston Celtics

   2.      Cleveland Cavaliers

   3.      Orlando Magic

   4.      Detroit Pistons

   5.      Philadelphia 76ers

   6.      Toronto Raptors

   7.      Atlanta Hawks

   8.      Chicago Bulls 

     (watch: Washington Wizards, Miami Heat)

    

       II.  WESTERN CONFERENCE (Division Winners)

             Pacific-    LA LAKERS

             SouthWest- NEW ORLEANS HORNETS 

             NorthWest- UTAH JAZZ

            West Playoff Picture

   1.      LA Lakers

   2.      New Orleans Hornets

   3.      Utah Jazz

   4.      Houston Rockets

   5.      San Antonio Spurs

   6.      Phoenix Suns

   7.      Dallas Mavericks

   8.      Portland TrailBlazers 

            (watch: Nuggets, Warriors) 

    

    Finals: LAKERS defeat CAVALIERS (4-2) III.             NBA Superlatives

   *Rookie of the Year: Greg Oden, Portland Trailblazers

   *Defensive Player: Josh Smith, Atlanta Hawks *Sixth Man of Year: James Posey, New Orleans Hornets *Most Improved POY: Andrew Bynum, LA Lakers *Coach of the Year: Nate McMillan, Portland Trailblazers *Most Valuable Player: Lebron James, Cleveland Cavaliers III. SAY WHAT!!! (A few quick thoughts) *If your favorite NBA team and or player was not mentioned you should probably get a new one! *Soooo PacMan has entered an alcohol treatment program. Riiiiiiight! *What's up with Brett Favre "Snitching" on the Packers to the Lions. Sure Green Bay won the game but Favre was waaaaay out of line. I mean the bearded man claims he and former Lions GM Matt Millen were discussing hunting and some football stuff but who goes hunting midweek during the season? Uh huh yea....

    

    

    

    

   *Speaking of Matt Millen I wonder if he was fired because he had the conversation with Favre yet they still lost! Geez you mean he's a lousy note taker too... *How is it that Tony Romo needs so much time off for a "pinky finger?" I mean Kobe went to a title and won a Gold Medal with his fractured pinky...I thought football players were suppose to be sooo tough? *Did anyone see Kobe Bryant's "scary" knee injury? Some injury it seemed as if the black mamba was just tired of playing meaningless basketball so he decided to do a Paul Pierce..oops did I say that?

    

    

By: Kevin Cottrell, Jr.

 

Just a Thought...

 

TIMING...Shhhh! Do you hear that? (tic-toc-tic-toc-tic....) it's the sound of time! Every second, every minute we're faced with options and the decisions we make may change us and or others for years to come. So what does that mean? (tic-toc-tic-toc) it's all about timing! Right now you could easily be chatting it up on facebook or watching a hilarious video on youtube but instead you chose to get the latest greatest news surrounding sports. You may be missing out on your friends most recent photos but instead you'll be viewed as a Sporting Genius with your insight around cooler talk...Tic-toc-tic-toc... Think about it? Who knew that a scrawny kid named Michael Jordan (who was passed over by two teams in the '84 Draft) would become the greatest player of all time and change the culture of not only the city of Chicago but the NBA as we know it! Everyone thought the Patriots would finish with a perfect season last year, but it was the Giants destiny to overcome adversity and become the NFL Champions. See it's all about timing...Shaq and Kobe may not get along but for three straight titles that didn't matter at all (oh yea Kobe was traded on draft night the same season Shaq signed with LA). Timing in sports and in life isn't everything...it's the ONLY thing! Please be mindful of your timing. No one or nothing can deny you of your destiny, sure they may postpone it but reaching your destiny is inevitable. (tic-toc-tic-toc) Embrace every second like a last possession in basketball because eventually your time will run out! (Buzzer Sounding!!!!)

 

 

I. NFL Week 8 Predictions (Last week 5-9) Last week I got knocked around like a Lions quarterback! I took big hits all over my predictions! The Cowboys, Chargers, Colts and Saints all let me down. And to think they're all "sexy" Super Bowl picks. So much for my timing! Well that was then and this is now, it's my time to shine in this week's predictions! Let's take a look...

 

1. Falcons (4-2) @ Eagles (3-3) (1 pm, FOX)- For six weeks the NFL nation has been waiting for the Baby Birds to come back down to earth, but as you can see by their record they continue to fly high. As for the Eagles their play has failed to reach its potential and they find themselves in the cellar of the NFC East division. Both teams are coming off a bye week so with the afternoon clash set to kick-off in Philly all eyes will be on the clash of both Birds. Matt Ryan has looked like a veteran in the pocket playing as cool as a fan down the stretch in big games (see Chicago). This has been the case because teams have failed to put pressure on Ryan which just so happens to be the Eagles specialty. McNabb and company were able to take their week off to get their offense back on track. The hobbled RB Brian Westbrook has been on the practice field all week which will give Falcons coaches more to worry besides their defensive pressure. Keep your eyes open this game will be entertaining.  Prediction: EAGLES by 7

    

2. Browns (2-4) @ Jaguars (3-3) (4:05 pm, CBS)- Despite what their combined 5-7 records say this game is equally important for both squads. The Browns can pretty much pack their off-season bags with an L on the season and the Jags are already 3 games behind the Titans in their division so a loss would have them scouting talent for the NFL Draft. That's why they play the games. The Browns offense seems to be clicking on all cylinders but they'll have to prove it again on the road against a hard-hitting Jaguars defense. With Kellen Winslow sitting in timeout for his comments about the organization this isn't the weekend for the Browns to be fighting for their season. Look for the Jags to blitz Anderson early and don't be surprised if you see Brady Quinn before the end of the game.  Prediction: JAGUARS by 10

    

3. Colts (3-3) @ Titans (6-0) (8:30 pm, MNF ESPN)- A couple weeks ago I stated that the Colts we go on a six game winning streak. Okay so they only won 2 in a row (but even a broken clock is right twice a day). With that said the Colts got knocked around the field last week so I expect for them to mix in their running game more and install more 3-step drop plays for Manning, in order to move the ball against the aggressive Titans defense. If Tennessee wants to all but wrap up their division on Sunday they've got to be smart on Defense and control the clock on offense. I know Kerry Collins has been playing lights out ball but he doesn't want to get in a shootout with Peyton. But under the bright Monday Night lights you've got to expect crazy things to happen. Normally the Colts are sitting and 6-0 and the Titans are the ones chasing them in the division but times have change (as they always do) but I still believe this is the Colts division to lose.  Prediction: COLTS by 3

    

4. Chargers (3-4) @ Saints (3-4) (1 pm CBS)- These two teams have been so disappointing the league has decided to send them across the pond to face off in London...Okay so it was scheduled prior to their stinky play, but its true at times these teams have looked incredible then at other times they look like they belong in NFL Europa! Bush is out and L.T. isn't effective so the team that can move the ball through the air more effectively will come out on top. Look for Brees to pass the ball around at will with the return of Shockey and Colston. As for the Chargers they'll do all they can to spark some magic in London but the travel will eventually catch up to them. Prediction: SAINTS by 6                                                           

***Game of the Week***

 

1. Giants (5-1) @ Steelers (5-1) (4:15 pm, FOX-)- This game will be tabbed as the potential "Super Bowl Preview" but please don't go running to Vegas there's still alot of football to be played. The Giants have looked like the Champs they are for the past few weeks and the Steelers have played smash mouth Steel curtain football, only difference is Big Ben and his receiving core have managed to mix in big plays down field. Look for the Giants to do their best to ring Big Ben's bell as he's taken many hits through the first 6 games of their season, if Ben is ineffective through the air Pittsburgh fans will eventually be ringing another bell...the Boooooooo Bell! Prediction: GIANTS by 3

    

 

***Quick Picks***

 

Cowboys over Buccaneers

 

Redskins over Lions

 

Bills over Dolphins

 

Patriots over Rams

 

Jets over Chiefs

 

Ravens over Raiders

 

Bengals over Texans

 

Niners over Seahawks

 

 

Bye week: Bears, Packers, Broncos, Vikings

 

 

II. Sports Ventz (NBA Style)

 

The NBA Season begins in 5 days. So instead of my weekly vents I'm going to give you my projected Division winners, NBA Awards and yes the Finals Champion. Without further introduction here's your 2008-09 NBA Outlook!

 

 

I. EASTERN CONFERENCE (Division Winners)

 

.  Atlantic- BOSTON CELTICS

 

   Central-   CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

 

   SouthEast- ORLANDO MAGIC

 

                   East Playoff Picture

 

1.      Boston Celtics

 

2.      Cleveland Cavaliers

 

3.      Orlando Magic

 

4.      Detroit Pistons

 

5.      Philadelphia 76ers

 

6.      Toronto Raptors

 

7.      Atlanta Hawks

 

8.      Chicago Bulls

 

         (watch: Washington Wizards, Miami Heat)

 

 

    II.  WESTERN CONFERENCE (Division Winners)

 

         Pacific-    LA LAKERS

 

         SouthWest- NEW ORLEANS HORNETS

 

         NorthWest- UTAH JAZZ

 

                   West Playoff Picture

 

1.      LA Lakers

 

2.      New Orleans Hornets

 

3.      Utah Jazz

 

4.      Houston Rockets

 

5.      San Antonio Spurs

 

6.      Phoenix Suns

 

7.      Dallas Mavericks

 

8.      Portland TrailBlazers

 

                            (watch: Nuggets, Warriors)

 

 

         Finals: LAKERS defeat CAVALIERS (4-2)

 

 

III.             NBA Superlatives

 

*Rookie of the Year: Greg Oden, Portland Trailblazers

 

*Defensive Player: Josh Smith, Atlanta Hawks

 

*Sixth Man of Year: James Posey, New Orleans Hornets

 

*Most Improved POY: Andrew Bynum, LA Lakers

 

*Coach of the Year: Nate McMillan, Portland Trailblazers

 

*Most Valuable Player: Lebron James, Cleveland Cavaliers

 

 

 

III. SAY WHAT!!! (A few quick thoughts)

 

 

*If your favorite NBA team and or player was not mentioned you should probably get a new one!

 

 

*Soooo PacMan has entered an alcohol treatment program. Riiiiiiight!

 

 

 

*What's up with Brett Favre "Snitching" on the Packers to the Lions. Sure Green Bay won the game but Favre was waaaaay out of line. I mean the bearded man claims he and former Lions GM Matt Millen were discussing hunting and some football stuff but who goes hunting midweek during the season? Uh huh yea....

 

 

*Speaking of Matt Millen I wonder if he was fired because he had the conversation with Favre yet they still lost! Geez you mean he's a lousy note taker too...

 

 

*How is it that Tony Romo needs so much time off for a "pinky finger?" I mean Kobe went to a title and won a Gold Medal with his fractured pinky...I thought football players were suppose to be sooo tough?

 

 

*Did anyone see Kobe Bryant's "scary" knee injury? Some injury it seemed as if the black mamba was just tired of playing meaningless basketball so he decided to do a Paul Pierce..oops did I say that?