Bottom line of this game, Kansas City won, moved to 6-3 on the season and hold the #1 wild card spot and are only one game behind Denver for the lead. I expected a defensive battle and actually predicted the Chiefs to win this game 17-13, however the game did not unfold the way I expected it to.
The Chiefs defense was not dominate like they had been in the past few games, they gave up 253 passing yards on the day and the Bills averaged 5 yards per rush. The pass rush was not that great either and the Chief's were only able to get one sack on Orton by Poe, coming in to the game Houston was averaging more than one sack a game. However the defense did one thing they had not done all season; caused turnovers, three of them and two of them were game changing. To start the second half the Buffalo had the ball and were driving already up 10-3. Brown was rushing towards the end zone to give Buffalo a 17-3 lead and score the first rushing touchdown against the Chiefs on the year, when the Chiefs forced the fumble and the ball went out of the end zone for a touch back.This turnover took a sure 7 points off the board for Buffalo. The second came on a 4th quarter punt return when McKelvin fumbled and the Chiefs recovered it on the Bills 26 and two plays later Alex Smith had run the ball in for an 8 yard touchdown. Without these two turnovers the Chiefs would not have won this game.
Monday, November 10, 2014
College Football Playoff Power Rankings - Week 11
Below are my thoughts on where the college football teams stand at the end of the games on 11/8 and what I think the final rankings will be.
Top 4 teams as of this week: Remaining games:
1. Mississippi State 9-0 @ #5 Alabama, Vanderbilt & @ #11 Ole Miss
2. Florida State 9-0 @ Miami, Boston College & Florida
3. Alabama 8-1 #1 Mississippi St, W Carolina & #3 Auburn
4. Oregon 9-1 Colorado & @ Oregon St
Other teams in no order: Remaining games:
TCU 8-1 @ Kansas, @ Texas & Iowa St
Baylor 8-1 Oklahoma St, Texas Tech & #7 Kansas St
Ohio State 8-1 @ Minnesota, Indiana & Michigan
Arizona State 8-1 @ Oregon St, Washington St & @ #19 Arizona
Nebraska 8-1 @ #25 Wisconsin, Minnesota & @ Iowa
Top 4 teams as of this week: Remaining games:
1. Mississippi State 9-0 @ #5 Alabama, Vanderbilt & @ #11 Ole Miss
2. Florida State 9-0 @ Miami, Boston College & Florida
3. Alabama 8-1 #1 Mississippi St, W Carolina & #3 Auburn
4. Oregon 9-1 Colorado & @ Oregon St
Other teams in no order: Remaining games:
TCU 8-1 @ Kansas, @ Texas & Iowa St
Baylor 8-1 Oklahoma St, Texas Tech & #7 Kansas St
Ohio State 8-1 @ Minnesota, Indiana & Michigan
Arizona State 8-1 @ Oregon St, Washington St & @ #19 Arizona
Nebraska 8-1 @ #25 Wisconsin, Minnesota & @ Iowa
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Sports Today 11/9/2014
Week 10 of the NFL season resumes today, however it is a little disappointing with only two match-ups of teams with winning records. There is a Barclays Premiere League match against teams in the top 6 entering the weekend and two more MLS leg 2 playoff games.
NFL
Noon Central - Kansas City 5-3 at Buffalo 5-3 - CBS
Going into this week through tie breakers Kansas City was holding on to the last wild card sport. Buffalo was on the outside of the playoff picture. After today the playoff picture for these teams will clear up. A win not only gives that team a one game lead it will also give them the head-to-head tie breaker, so really a win give a team a two game lead. The weather will not be a major factor in this game, but the defenses will be. I expect a low scoring defensive battle where field position will be huge. Kansas City sneaks this one out 17-13.
Noon Central - Miami 5-3 at Detroit 6-2 - CBS
This game is huge for Miami as they know there will be two teams in wild card spots at 6-3, so a lose and they are a game back of a playoff sport, a win and they will stay in a tie. Detroit is having great season and will be getting back their best offensive weapon in Chris Johnson. Detroit will be at home, in first place in the NFC North and I expect the crowd to respond. This will be a close game early in the 4th quarter, but Detroit will pull away. Detroit wins 27-17
Noon Central - San Francisco 4-4 at New Orleans 4-4 - FOX
At 4-4 New Orleans sits in first place in the NFC South and a loss at worst will keep them within a half game of first place. On the other hand the 4-4 49ers are playing for their season, a loss today and the chances of the playoffs will be all but over. New Orleans has looked really good in the last two games destroying the Packers at home and winning easily last Thursday in Carolina. San Francisco on the other had got blew out in Denver and then last at home to the Rams. New Orleans keeps this rolling winning 34-24.
Premiere League
10:00 AM Central - Arsenal at Swansea City - NBCSN
Coming in to the weekend Arsenal is on 17 points and was in 4th place while Swansea City is on 15 points in 6th place. Since coming up to the Premiere league a few years ago Swansea has been a pleasant surprise and gets better and better every year. This a is a game where three points for either team would go a long way at getting them in to the top 4. Arsenal still seems to leak goals and can't close out wins, but finds a way to salvage draws. Not sure which it will be today, but I see a late draw of 2-2 in this game.
MLS Playoffs
Not going in to huge details, for more info see my playoff preview here.
4:00 PM Central - Columbus at New England - ESPN2
I dd not expect New England to win 4-2 on the road. Columbus is in a world of hurt coming in this game. They are going to have to push to get an early goal as they will have to win by 3 or win by 2 and score 4 goals to put the game in extra time or 5 or more to win. If Columbus gets an early goal this could be interesting, but I expect New England to get the first goal as Columbus pushes for one. New England wins this game out right 2-1 and 6-3 overall.
6:30 PM Central - Real Salt Lake at LA Galaxy - ESPN2
I was expecting a 1-1 draw in the first game, but we ended 0-0. I still think at home LA will dominate this game and win 3-0 and advance on to the conference finals.
NFL
Noon Central - Kansas City 5-3 at Buffalo 5-3 - CBS
Going into this week through tie breakers Kansas City was holding on to the last wild card sport. Buffalo was on the outside of the playoff picture. After today the playoff picture for these teams will clear up. A win not only gives that team a one game lead it will also give them the head-to-head tie breaker, so really a win give a team a two game lead. The weather will not be a major factor in this game, but the defenses will be. I expect a low scoring defensive battle where field position will be huge. Kansas City sneaks this one out 17-13.
Noon Central - Miami 5-3 at Detroit 6-2 - CBS
This game is huge for Miami as they know there will be two teams in wild card spots at 6-3, so a lose and they are a game back of a playoff sport, a win and they will stay in a tie. Detroit is having great season and will be getting back their best offensive weapon in Chris Johnson. Detroit will be at home, in first place in the NFC North and I expect the crowd to respond. This will be a close game early in the 4th quarter, but Detroit will pull away. Detroit wins 27-17
Noon Central - San Francisco 4-4 at New Orleans 4-4 - FOX
At 4-4 New Orleans sits in first place in the NFC South and a loss at worst will keep them within a half game of first place. On the other hand the 4-4 49ers are playing for their season, a loss today and the chances of the playoffs will be all but over. New Orleans has looked really good in the last two games destroying the Packers at home and winning easily last Thursday in Carolina. San Francisco on the other had got blew out in Denver and then last at home to the Rams. New Orleans keeps this rolling winning 34-24.
Premiere League
10:00 AM Central - Arsenal at Swansea City - NBCSN
Coming in to the weekend Arsenal is on 17 points and was in 4th place while Swansea City is on 15 points in 6th place. Since coming up to the Premiere league a few years ago Swansea has been a pleasant surprise and gets better and better every year. This a is a game where three points for either team would go a long way at getting them in to the top 4. Arsenal still seems to leak goals and can't close out wins, but finds a way to salvage draws. Not sure which it will be today, but I see a late draw of 2-2 in this game.
MLS Playoffs
Not going in to huge details, for more info see my playoff preview here.
4:00 PM Central - Columbus at New England - ESPN2
I dd not expect New England to win 4-2 on the road. Columbus is in a world of hurt coming in this game. They are going to have to push to get an early goal as they will have to win by 3 or win by 2 and score 4 goals to put the game in extra time or 5 or more to win. If Columbus gets an early goal this could be interesting, but I expect New England to get the first goal as Columbus pushes for one. New England wins this game out right 2-1 and 6-3 overall.
6:30 PM Central - Real Salt Lake at LA Galaxy - ESPN2
I was expecting a 1-1 draw in the first game, but we ended 0-0. I still think at home LA will dominate this game and win 3-0 and advance on to the conference finals.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Sports Today 11/8/2014
We are in for a great day of sports today with six college football games that have rank opponents playing each other. Three of these games will be on in prime time on network television. The Barclays Premiere League kicks off Week 11 and the second leg of the MLS playoffs start today.
College Football
11:00 AM Central - #12 Baylor at #15 Oklahoma - Fox Sports 1
At 6-2 the chances for Oklahoma to make the playoff is unlikely, but Baylor at 7-1 if they were to win out would have a good chance. The problem for Baylor is they are playing in Norman against a team last week who got back on track by destroying Iowa State. I think this will be a good game and will stay close most of the game, but in the end I think Baylor's playoff hopes will die in Norman. Oklahoma with the 40-35 win.
2:00 PM Central - #7 Northwest Missouri State University at Emporia State - Online Stream
This week in the regional rankings Northwest moved up to #5 in SR3, with the top 6 teams making the playoffs this season is simple for the Bearcats, win and your in. With two weeks to go Northwest will have their final true road game when they travel to Emporia State, who is 4-5 on the season. Emporia has beat the bad teams in the MIAA and lost to the good teams. I feel there is enough motivation for Northwest making the playoffs not to have a let down in a game they should win. Northwest wins going away 44-10.
College Football
11:00 AM Central - #12 Baylor at #15 Oklahoma - Fox Sports 1
At 6-2 the chances for Oklahoma to make the playoff is unlikely, but Baylor at 7-1 if they were to win out would have a good chance. The problem for Baylor is they are playing in Norman against a team last week who got back on track by destroying Iowa State. I think this will be a good game and will stay close most of the game, but in the end I think Baylor's playoff hopes will die in Norman. Oklahoma with the 40-35 win.
2:00 PM Central - #7 Northwest Missouri State University at Emporia State - Online Stream
This week in the regional rankings Northwest moved up to #5 in SR3, with the top 6 teams making the playoffs this season is simple for the Bearcats, win and your in. With two weeks to go Northwest will have their final true road game when they travel to Emporia State, who is 4-5 on the season. Emporia has beat the bad teams in the MIAA and lost to the good teams. I feel there is enough motivation for Northwest making the playoffs not to have a let down in a game they should win. Northwest wins going away 44-10.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Sports Today 11/6/2014
Today kicks off Week 10 of the NFL season and Week 11 of the college football season. We have a good match-up in the NFL and a Top 25 team playing on the road in college football.
NFL
Cleveland at Cincinnati - 7:25 PM Central - NFL Network
This is a huge match-up in the best top to bottom division in the NFL. Cleveland is sitting at 5-3 and right in the middle of the wildcard battle, but a win tonight will put them right in the mix to win the division. Cincinnati sitting at 5-2-1 is leading the division, but a loss tonight would push then to third in the division and on the outside looking in of the wildcard battle. Statistically these teams are very similar; Cincinnati averages 10 more yard of offense a game, while Cleveland averages giving up 3 less yards. When it comes to scoring Cincinnati scores 24.3 points a game compared to 23.1 by Cleveland, but the Cleveland defense gives up 21.1 points per game compared to 23.4 by Cincinnati. When you have a game this close against division rivals I have to go with the home team. Cincinnati will stay on top of the AFC North with a 28-24 win.
NFL
Cleveland at Cincinnati - 7:25 PM Central - NFL Network
This is a huge match-up in the best top to bottom division in the NFL. Cleveland is sitting at 5-3 and right in the middle of the wildcard battle, but a win tonight will put them right in the mix to win the division. Cincinnati sitting at 5-2-1 is leading the division, but a loss tonight would push then to third in the division and on the outside looking in of the wildcard battle. Statistically these teams are very similar; Cincinnati averages 10 more yard of offense a game, while Cleveland averages giving up 3 less yards. When it comes to scoring Cincinnati scores 24.3 points a game compared to 23.1 by Cleveland, but the Cleveland defense gives up 21.1 points per game compared to 23.4 by Cincinnati. When you have a game this close against division rivals I have to go with the home team. Cincinnati will stay on top of the AFC North with a 28-24 win.
Chiefs to Play Lions in London in 2015
The NFL is a world brand and I understand trying to play games that others in the world can see live. I mean some of the biggest European soccer clubs play games in the United States every year. But wait those are friendlies, otherwise known as preseason games. The Chiefs will be playing the Lions in week 8 on the NFL season in London. This game will be right in the middle of the season for the Chiefs and will likely have a huge impact for both teams on their playoff chances. Also more good news for Chiefs fans, this is one of our eight home games. Which means the Chiefs will only have seven (hopefully more with the playoffs) games that count at Arrowhead. Giving up a home game is huge in the NFL and even more so against a likely playoff team in the Lions. I have seen the games in London and the fans are in to the game, but it will not have a home field advantage of Arrowhead.
The one thing the NFL has done this year is that they have given the teams playing in London their bye week the week after the game. While this is nice, you are still losing some of the time off the players get, and need, in the middle of the season. I am sure the team has to be making more money from playing over in England then they would be in having a home game at Arrowhead.
The two other games in London next year will be Miami hosting the NY Jets and Jacksonville hosting Buffalo. With these announced three teams will be going back to London for the second year in a row, Miami, Jacksonville and Detroit. Who are the fans going to be rooting for in these games the team that is the home team, or the team they saw play last year? In a league where one game can be the difference between making the playoffs or sitting at home watching them in January it is a huge risk giving up a home game. It is even a greater risk to do this against a team that just did this and will have the experience of making the long trip.
I really hope this works out for the team, but I am just concerned that this could be the difference between making the playoffs in 2015 and not. Let's just say that I am not a fan of this game.
The one thing the NFL has done this year is that they have given the teams playing in London their bye week the week after the game. While this is nice, you are still losing some of the time off the players get, and need, in the middle of the season. I am sure the team has to be making more money from playing over in England then they would be in having a home game at Arrowhead.
The two other games in London next year will be Miami hosting the NY Jets and Jacksonville hosting Buffalo. With these announced three teams will be going back to London for the second year in a row, Miami, Jacksonville and Detroit. Who are the fans going to be rooting for in these games the team that is the home team, or the team they saw play last year? In a league where one game can be the difference between making the playoffs or sitting at home watching them in January it is a huge risk giving up a home game. It is even a greater risk to do this against a team that just did this and will have the experience of making the long trip.
I really hope this works out for the team, but I am just concerned that this could be the difference between making the playoffs in 2015 and not. Let's just say that I am not a fan of this game.
College Football Week 11 Picks
Here are my picks for the Top 25 and Big 12 games for week 11 of the college football season:
Thursday 11/6
#21 Clemson at Wake Forest- Clemson
Saturday 11/8
#1 Mississippi State hosts UT Martin - Mississippi State
#2 Florida State hosts Virginia - Florida State
#3 Auburn hosts #4 Texas A&M - Auburn
#4 Oregon at #17 Utah - Oregon
#5 Alabama at #16 LSU - Alabama
#6 TCU hosts #7 Kansas State - TCU
#8 Michigan State hosts #14 Ohio State - Michigan State
#9 Arizona State hosts #10 Notre Dame - Arizona State
#11 Ole Miss hosts Presbyterian - Ole Miss
#12 Baylor at #15 Oklahoma - Oklahoma
#18 UCLA at Washington - Washington
#19 Arizona hosts Colorado - Arizona
#20 Georgia at Kentucky - Georgia
#22 Duke at Syracuse - Duke
#23 West Virginia at Texas - West Virginia
#24 Georgia Tech at NC State - Georgia Tech
#25 Wisconsin at Purdue - Wisconsin
Remaining Big 12 Game
Iowa State at Kansas - Iowa State
Last week I went 12-5 (.706) in my college football picks.
Thursday 11/6
#21 Clemson at Wake Forest- Clemson
Saturday 11/8
#1 Mississippi State hosts UT Martin - Mississippi State
#2 Florida State hosts Virginia - Florida State
#3 Auburn hosts #4 Texas A&M - Auburn
#4 Oregon at #17 Utah - Oregon
#5 Alabama at #16 LSU - Alabama
#6 TCU hosts #7 Kansas State - TCU
#8 Michigan State hosts #14 Ohio State - Michigan State
#9 Arizona State hosts #10 Notre Dame - Arizona State
#11 Ole Miss hosts Presbyterian - Ole Miss
#12 Baylor at #15 Oklahoma - Oklahoma
#18 UCLA at Washington - Washington
#19 Arizona hosts Colorado - Arizona
#20 Georgia at Kentucky - Georgia
#22 Duke at Syracuse - Duke
#23 West Virginia at Texas - West Virginia
#24 Georgia Tech at NC State - Georgia Tech
#25 Wisconsin at Purdue - Wisconsin
Remaining Big 12 Game
Iowa State at Kansas - Iowa State
Last week I went 12-5 (.706) in my college football picks.
NFL Week 10 Picks
Picks for Week 10 of the NFL season:
Thursday November 6th
Browns (5-3) at Bengals (5-2-1) - Bengals
Sunday November 9th
Chiefs (5-3) at Bills (5-3) - Chiefs
Dolphins (5-3) at Lions (6-2) - Lions
Cowboys (6-3) vs Jaguars (1-8) in London - Cowboys
49ers (4-4) at Saints (4-4) - Saints
Titans (2-6) at Ravens (5-4) - Ravens
Steelers (6-3) at Jets (1-8) - Steelers
Falcons (2-6) at Buccaneers (1-7) - Buccaneers
Broncos (6-2) at Oakland (0-8) - Broncos
Rams (3-5) at Cardinals (7-1) - Cardinals
Giants (3-5) at Seahawks (5-3) - Seahawks
Bears (3-5) at Packers (5-3) - Packers
Monday November 10th
Panthers (3-5-1) at Eagles (6-2) - Eagles
Last week I went 9-4 (.692) in my picks.
Thursday November 6th
Browns (5-3) at Bengals (5-2-1) - Bengals
Sunday November 9th
Chiefs (5-3) at Bills (5-3) - Chiefs
Dolphins (5-3) at Lions (6-2) - Lions
Cowboys (6-3) vs Jaguars (1-8) in London - Cowboys
49ers (4-4) at Saints (4-4) - Saints
Titans (2-6) at Ravens (5-4) - Ravens
Steelers (6-3) at Jets (1-8) - Steelers
Falcons (2-6) at Buccaneers (1-7) - Buccaneers
Broncos (6-2) at Oakland (0-8) - Broncos
Rams (3-5) at Cardinals (7-1) - Cardinals
Giants (3-5) at Seahawks (5-3) - Seahawks
Bears (3-5) at Packers (5-3) - Packers
Monday November 10th
Panthers (3-5-1) at Eagles (6-2) - Eagles
Last week I went 9-4 (.692) in my picks.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
NFL Mid-Season Projections
All teams are now at least half way through the NFL season (some teams have played 9 games). There have been a few surprises this year, but not too many.
Here were my preseason picks for the playoffs:
AFC Division Winners - New England, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and Denver
AFC Wildcards - Baltimore and San Diego
NFC Division Winners - Philadelphia, Green Bay, New Orleans and Seattle
AFC Wildcards - San Francisco and Chicago
In the AFC I am sticking with three of my division winners in New England, Indianapolis and Denver. I am thinking Cincinnati still makes the playoffs as a Wildcard, but Pittsburgh will win the division. I am sticking with Baltimore as my other Wildcard team. I think the Chiefs and Dolphins will finish just behind Cincinnati with the same number of wins, but one more loss thanks to the tie that Cincinnati had. As for the team that makes it out of the AFC for the Superbowl, my preseason pick was Indianapolis, I am not sold that they will make it out the AFC. I think the team that makes it out is the team with home field advantage and at this point I could see all the division winners at 13-3 and 12-4. Next week the Indianapolis vs New England game could help decide who get home field. For now I am going to stick with my pick of the Colts.
In the NFC I am only going to stick with two of my division winners in Philadelphia and New Orleans. I am thinking Seattle and Green Bay both make the playoffs as Wildcards but Arizona and Detroit will win their divisions. I know Arizona and Seattle still play twice, but I think Arizona will split that meaning Seattle has to make up another game and the schedules for both teams look equally as difficult. For Detroit they have a much easier schedule than Green Bay and they already have a win over Green Bay. I originally had Seattle coming out of the NFC and I am going to stick with that pick. They will have to do it on the road during the playoffs, but they have been there and I think they will turn it up to another level when it maters.
The biggest surprise to me so far this season is the Arizona Cardinals, They are playing in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL and have only one loss. They have had QB injuries and they are still winning. This is a young team that I think will be good for a few more years.
The biggest disappointment to me is the Atlanta Falcons. I thought they would contend for the division and a wildcard, but at this point they are just going to be a spoiler for other teams. Sitting with only two wins and their four non-divisional games are all against teams with winning records. Three out of the four divisional games they have left are on the road. There is a chance that this team wins four games or less this year.
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
NFL Week 9 - 5 Thoughts / Top 5
Five thoughts from NFL Week 9
1 - The AFC North is going to be a tight division. The best part is that these are all good teams (yes even the Browns) and this race could come all the way down to the final week of the season, Pittsburgh hosts Cincinnati. All of the teams currently have winning records and the Ravens are in last place with a record of 5-4. There have been years where I would wonder if the winner of this division would have a winning record or not, this year I find myself wondering will there be a team with a losing record.
1 - The AFC North is going to be a tight division. The best part is that these are all good teams (yes even the Browns) and this race could come all the way down to the final week of the season, Pittsburgh hosts Cincinnati. All of the teams currently have winning records and the Ravens are in last place with a record of 5-4. There have been years where I would wonder if the winner of this division would have a winning record or not, this year I find myself wondering will there be a team with a losing record.
Chiefs vs Jets Review
I almost for got to review this game, well because while this was a good win for the Chiefs there was not much to review, because they did what they were suppose to do, keep losing teams losing. The Chiefs took the first drive of the game 81 yards in 12 plays and scored a touchdown. The defense came out and held the Jets to a three and out. Then 71 yards and 6 plays later the Chiefs were sitting in the end zone again (literally) with a 14-0 lead. From this point on the game was in cruise control.
Before the end of the half the Chiefs did allow the Jets to get a touchdown, but the offense answered right back and got another touchdown before the end of the half to have a 11 point lead at halftime. On their first drive of the second half the Chiefs added another field goal to get the lead back to 14 points and that is where the game would finish 24-10. With the win the Chiefs move in to a four way tie for the last wildcard sport in the AFC at 5-3.
Before the end of the half the Chiefs did allow the Jets to get a touchdown, but the offense answered right back and got another touchdown before the end of the half to have a 11 point lead at halftime. On their first drive of the second half the Chiefs added another field goal to get the lead back to 14 points and that is where the game would finish 24-10. With the win the Chiefs move in to a four way tie for the last wildcard sport in the AFC at 5-3.
Monday, November 3, 2014
MLS Divisional Semifinals - Leg 1 Review
We are half way thought the MLS Divisional Semifinals and all but one of the match-ups are playing out the way I expected. I have actually projected two of these 100% accurate, and another I was expecting a 1-1 draw and we got a 0-0 draw. After these weekend I am only worried about one of the teams I predicted to make the conference finals not making it. Let's look at where these match-up stand:
Eastern Conference - #3 Columbus vs #2 New England
I was expecting for a 2-1 win at home for Columbus and for New England to finish business at home and move on. Well New England has taken all the drama out of this one by destroying Columbus 4-2 on the road. It will take a small miracle for Columbus to get back in this as they will either need to win by 3 goals, or by 2 goals and either score 4 goals (which will put it in to extra time) or more. I see New England cruising in the return leg and easily moves on to the conference finals.
Eastern Conference - #3 Columbus vs #2 New England
I was expecting for a 2-1 win at home for Columbus and for New England to finish business at home and move on. Well New England has taken all the drama out of this one by destroying Columbus 4-2 on the road. It will take a small miracle for Columbus to get back in this as they will either need to win by 3 goals, or by 2 goals and either score 4 goals (which will put it in to extra time) or more. I see New England cruising in the return leg and easily moves on to the conference finals.
Sunday, November 2, 2014
College Football Playoff Power Rankings - Week 10
Below are my thoughts on where the college football teams stand at the end of the games on 11/1 and what I think the final rankings will be.
Top 4 teams as of this week: Remaining games:
1. Mississippi State 8-0 UT Martin, @ #6 Alabama, Vanderbilt & @ #4 Ole Miss
2. Florida State 8-0 Virginia, @ Miami, Boston College & Florida
3. Alabama 7-1 @ #19 LSU, #1 Mississippi St, W Carolina & #3 Auburn
4. Oregon 8-1 @ #17 Utah, Colorado & @ Oregon St
Top 4 teams as of this week: Remaining games:
1. Mississippi State 8-0 UT Martin, @ #6 Alabama, Vanderbilt & @ #4 Ole Miss
2. Florida State 8-0 Virginia, @ Miami, Boston College & Florida
3. Alabama 7-1 @ #19 LSU, #1 Mississippi St, W Carolina & #3 Auburn
4. Oregon 8-1 @ #17 Utah, Colorado & @ Oregon St
Today's Sports 11/2/2014
Week 9 of the NFL with the top teams in the NFC and AFC playing each other, day 2 of the MLS Conference Semifinals and a Manchester derby in the Premier League.
English Premier League
Manchester United at Manchester City - 7:30 AM Central - NBCSN
Going in to the 10th game of the season City is sitting third in the table with 17 points while United is sitting either in the table with 13 points.
NFL
For all my NFL Week 9 Picks
New York Jets at Kansas City Chiefs - Noon Central - CBS
Coming in to this game the Jets are 1-7 while Kansas City has just moved above .500 on the season at 4-3. The Jets have turned the ball over an amazing 18 times already this season and are starting back-up quarterback Michael Vick in this game. I always worry about a team that is playing bad going on the road against a team that should beat them easily because they have nothing to lose. Kansas City has everything to lose in this game because a loss here would almost end their chances at getting back in to the playoff hunt. It is going to be a beautiful fall day in Kansas City and the city is still energized from the Royals playoff run so the fans will be in to this game. The Chiefs are just playing too good with Charles on offense and Houston on defense. The Chiefs will also break the streak this week and a wide receive will catch a touchdown pass. Kansas City will put this game away early and cruise to a 31-13 victory
English Premier League
Manchester United at Manchester City - 7:30 AM Central - NBCSN
Going in to the 10th game of the season City is sitting third in the table with 17 points while United is sitting either in the table with 13 points.
NFL
For all my NFL Week 9 Picks
New York Jets at Kansas City Chiefs - Noon Central - CBS
Coming in to this game the Jets are 1-7 while Kansas City has just moved above .500 on the season at 4-3. The Jets have turned the ball over an amazing 18 times already this season and are starting back-up quarterback Michael Vick in this game. I always worry about a team that is playing bad going on the road against a team that should beat them easily because they have nothing to lose. Kansas City has everything to lose in this game because a loss here would almost end their chances at getting back in to the playoff hunt. It is going to be a beautiful fall day in Kansas City and the city is still energized from the Royals playoff run so the fans will be in to this game. The Chiefs are just playing too good with Charles on offense and Houston on defense. The Chiefs will also break the streak this week and a wide receive will catch a touchdown pass. Kansas City will put this game away early and cruise to a 31-13 victory
Saturday, November 1, 2014
Todays' Sports 11/1/2014
Today is shaping up to be a great day of sports headlined by college football where #3 play #4 and their are three other match-ups against top 25 teams. The English Premier League is in action as well as first leg action from the MLS conference semifinals.
English Premier League
Burnley at Arsenal - 10:00 AM Central - NBC SportsExtra
Arsenal is currently sitting at 5th place in the league, but the teams in 4th and all the way down to 9th are +/- 2 points from them. They are playing Burnley who is currently last and has not won yet. This is a home game for Arsenal and even with the injuries and the busy schedule they should win this game and they need to. Arsenal has already dropped points this year drawing games they should have won, if they want to continue their streak of Champion League qualifications. Arsenal wins 3-1.
English Premier League
Burnley at Arsenal - 10:00 AM Central - NBC SportsExtra
Arsenal is currently sitting at 5th place in the league, but the teams in 4th and all the way down to 9th are +/- 2 points from them. They are playing Burnley who is currently last and has not won yet. This is a home game for Arsenal and even with the injuries and the busy schedule they should win this game and they need to. Arsenal has already dropped points this year drawing games they should have won, if they want to continue their streak of Champion League qualifications. Arsenal wins 3-1.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Disappointing Season In Prospective
Sporting Kansas City's title defense season came to an end on Thursday night in the knockout round of the MLS playoffs. I think many fans, players, coaches and staff in the front office will call this season a disappointment. For people to consider this season a disappointment is a huge accomplishment for this franchise.
Attendance at Sporting Park was not hurt by Sporting KC's season. They broke their average attendance record for a season at Sporting Park averaging 19,714 (+5 from 2013) in a stadium that has a seating capacity of 18,467. Every game was a sellout and the team now stands at 53 straight sellouts for MLS games.
Sporting Kansas City MLS Playoff Knockout Round Game Review
In a win or go home game Kansas City came out and played with the urgency needed to start the game on the road in New York (actually New Jersey). Sporting looked as good as they had in the last 10 games to start. The changes to the lineup did help, especially having Benny back out on the field.
As the first half went on New York started to open up a few chances, but luckily for Sporting none of of them went in. The first half ended in a 0-0 tie and I think Sporting was happy about they. They were playing a more defensive game making sure that they had as many bodies behind the ball as possible. This showed in the first have possession numbers as Sporting only had the ball 38.7% of the time, the only 5 minute interval that they had the majority of the possession in the first half was the first five minutes. In the majority of the games this year Sporting would dominate the possession numbers, so they weren't playing their normal game, and that was not a bad thing.
As the first half went on New York started to open up a few chances, but luckily for Sporting none of of them went in. The first half ended in a 0-0 tie and I think Sporting was happy about they. They were playing a more defensive game making sure that they had as many bodies behind the ball as possible. This showed in the first have possession numbers as Sporting only had the ball 38.7% of the time, the only 5 minute interval that they had the majority of the possession in the first half was the first five minutes. In the majority of the games this year Sporting would dominate the possession numbers, so they weren't playing their normal game, and that was not a bad thing.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Royals Loss May Hurt, But....
Losing Game 7 of a World Series will always hurt, losing a close game will hurt a little more, being 90 feet away from keeping the game going is painful. While this loss hurts, at least the Royals fans have a feeling at the end of the season. This is a huge deal for a fan base that has not seen the postseason for 29 years. I am sure there were some seasons along the way where fans had feelings at the end of the season, but I think there were many more where the fans had just moved on to another sport by the end of the year.
Over the 29 years between playoff appearances the Royals had some really bad times. In the 29 year span they had 8 winning seasons. Of the 21 losing seasons with 13 of those seasons losing 90 games or more and 4 of those seasons they lost over 100 games! From 2004 to 2006 they lost 100+ games each year going 176-310 winning just 36% of their games. Between 2004 and 2012 they did not have one winning season.
Over the 29 years between playoff appearances the Royals had some really bad times. In the 29 year span they had 8 winning seasons. Of the 21 losing seasons with 13 of those seasons losing 90 games or more and 4 of those seasons they lost over 100 games! From 2004 to 2006 they lost 100+ games each year going 176-310 winning just 36% of their games. Between 2004 and 2012 they did not have one winning season.
Royals World Series Game 7 Review
Hats off to both the Royals and Giants on a great series and a drama packed Game 7. The Giants and one in particular one player played better for 4 games and won their third title in five years. However the Royals have nothing to be ashamed of, they had a great season and an amazing post season, it is hard right now because they were so close.
Thanks to the FOX broadcast I will not be using a certain players name in this post, I will just call him The Player. This is no disrespect to this player or the Giants, however from the 6th inning on last night FOX forgot that there were other players on the field and even as other players for the Giants were getting hits, or defensive players were made by the Royals this player sitting on the bench is all that was talked about. Yes this pitcher is a very good pitcher and had an amazing and record setting World Series, but the gushing by FOX was comical by the end of the game.
Thanks to the FOX broadcast I will not be using a certain players name in this post, I will just call him The Player. This is no disrespect to this player or the Giants, however from the 6th inning on last night FOX forgot that there were other players on the field and even as other players for the Giants were getting hits, or defensive players were made by the Royals this player sitting on the bench is all that was talked about. Yes this pitcher is a very good pitcher and had an amazing and record setting World Series, but the gushing by FOX was comical by the end of the game.
Sports Today 10/30/2014
Today kicks off week 9 of the NFL season and week 10 of the college football season, both have important games. Also the second knockout round game of the MLS playoffs is tonight.
College Football
#2 Florida State at #25 Louisville - 6:30 PM Central - ESPN
This is likely Florida States toughest remaining game this season. A win here should guarantee them a spot in the four teams college football playoff in January. How many times have we seen a team that should win a game go on the road for a Thursday or Friday night game on national television and lose? I don't know the exact number but it has happened many times. Louisville is a very good team with their only losses coming on the road at Virginia and Clemson. I am glad this game start early because I think it will still be a game in the fourth quarter. Florida State will pull this game out late with a 38 - 31 win.
College Football
#2 Florida State at #25 Louisville - 6:30 PM Central - ESPN
This is likely Florida States toughest remaining game this season. A win here should guarantee them a spot in the four teams college football playoff in January. How many times have we seen a team that should win a game go on the road for a Thursday or Friday night game on national television and lose? I don't know the exact number but it has happened many times. Louisville is a very good team with their only losses coming on the road at Virginia and Clemson. I am glad this game start early because I think it will still be a game in the fourth quarter. Florida State will pull this game out late with a 38 - 31 win.
NFL Week 9 Picks
Picks for Week 9 of the NFL season:
Thursday October 30th
Saints at Panthers - Saints
Sunday November 2nd
Jets at Chiefs - Chiefs
Buccaneers at Browns - Browns
Cardinals at Cowboys - Cardinals
Eagles at Texans - Eagles
Jaguars at Bengals - Bengals
Chargers at Dolphins - Chargers
Redskins at Vikings - Redskins
Rams at 49ers - 49ers
Broncos at Patriots - Patriots
Raiders at Seahawks - Seahawks
Ravens at Steelers - Ravens
Monday November 3rd
Colts at Giants - Colts
Thursday October 30th
Saints at Panthers - Saints
Sunday November 2nd
Jets at Chiefs - Chiefs
Buccaneers at Browns - Browns
Cardinals at Cowboys - Cardinals
Eagles at Texans - Eagles
Jaguars at Bengals - Bengals
Chargers at Dolphins - Chargers
Redskins at Vikings - Redskins
Rams at 49ers - 49ers
Broncos at Patriots - Patriots
Raiders at Seahawks - Seahawks
Ravens at Steelers - Ravens
Monday November 3rd
Colts at Giants - Colts
College Football Week 10 Picks
Here are my picks for the Top 25 and Big 12 games for week 10 of the college football season:
Thursday 10/30
#2 Florida State at #25 Louisville - Florida State
Saturday 11/1
#1 Mississippi State hosts Arkansas - Mississippi State
#3 Auburn at #4 Ole Miss - Ole Miss
#5 Oregon hosts Stanford - Oregon
#7 TCU at #20 West Virginia - TCU
#9 Kansas State hosts Oklahoma State - Kansas State
#10 Notre Dame at Navy - Notre Dame
#11 Georgia hosts Florida - Georgia
#12 Arizona at #22 UCLA - UCLA
#13 Baylor host Kansas - Baylor
#14 Arizona State hosts #17 Utah - Arizona Sates
#15 Nebraska hosts Purdue - Nebraska
#16 Ohio State hosts Illinois - Ohio State
#18 Oklahoma at Iowa State - Oklahoma
#23 East Carolina at Temple - East Carolina
#24 Duke at Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh
Remaining Big 12 Game
Texas at Texas Tech - Texas Tech
Thursday 10/30
#2 Florida State at #25 Louisville - Florida State
Saturday 11/1
#1 Mississippi State hosts Arkansas - Mississippi State
#3 Auburn at #4 Ole Miss - Ole Miss
#5 Oregon hosts Stanford - Oregon
#7 TCU at #20 West Virginia - TCU
#9 Kansas State hosts Oklahoma State - Kansas State
#10 Notre Dame at Navy - Notre Dame
#11 Georgia hosts Florida - Georgia
#12 Arizona at #22 UCLA - UCLA
#13 Baylor host Kansas - Baylor
#14 Arizona State hosts #17 Utah - Arizona Sates
#15 Nebraska hosts Purdue - Nebraska
#16 Ohio State hosts Illinois - Ohio State
#18 Oklahoma at Iowa State - Oklahoma
#23 East Carolina at Temple - East Carolina
#24 Duke at Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh
Remaining Big 12 Game
Texas at Texas Tech - Texas Tech
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Sports Today 10/29/2014
Today kicks off the MLS playoffs with the first knockout round game. There is also a rather huge game in baseball; Game 7 of the World Series.
MLS Playoffs
The Western Conference knockout round game is tonight with Vancouver going to FC Dallas. Don't look for this game on television outside the Dallas and Canada, if you want to watch this game MLSLive is the only option. Vancouver got in the playoffs on the last day of the season. FC Dallas has been sitting in a playoff sport for most of the season. This year in three games each team won one game and drew the other. I expect a close game, but think FC Dallas as the home team will pull it out.
World Series Game 7
MLS Playoffs
The Western Conference knockout round game is tonight with Vancouver going to FC Dallas. Don't look for this game on television outside the Dallas and Canada, if you want to watch this game MLSLive is the only option. Vancouver got in the playoffs on the last day of the season. FC Dallas has been sitting in a playoff sport for most of the season. This year in three games each team won one game and drew the other. I expect a close game, but think FC Dallas as the home team will pull it out.
World Series Game 7
Royals World Series Game 6 Review
What a game by the Royals last did. The exactly what they needed to, did not let the Giants get the lead early and then had a huge second inning scoring 7 runs and knocking Peavy out of the game after pitching on one and a third innings. Then Ventrura did exactly as he needed to, just keep pitching to save the bullpen.
In the first inning the Royals had a chance to get on the board with a two out rally when Cain drew two out walk and then Hosmer crushed a base hit. I thought Cain was going to try and go and he stopped at third (even though the base coach waved him home late). Butler came up and hit a easy ground ball to short to end the inning (Billy would make up for it in the second). The bottom of the second almost ended the ball game; Gordon lead off with a bloop hit to center followed by Perez with a line drive to right field just getting over the second baseman's head which got Gordon to third. With runners on first and third Moustakas came through with a double to right field scoring Gordon and getting Perez to third. Infante had a poor at bat striking out and not looking good while doing it. Escobar followed that up with a weak ground ball between the pitching and first base, but due to confusion he beat out the tag to load the bases. Aoki followed that up with a bloop hit to score another run, giving the Royals a 2-0 lead with the bases still loaded and knock Peavy out of the game. In came Petit who had been unhitable all postseason, all the Royals did was got three hits, two doubles and scored five more runs.
In the first inning the Royals had a chance to get on the board with a two out rally when Cain drew two out walk and then Hosmer crushed a base hit. I thought Cain was going to try and go and he stopped at third (even though the base coach waved him home late). Butler came up and hit a easy ground ball to short to end the inning (Billy would make up for it in the second). The bottom of the second almost ended the ball game; Gordon lead off with a bloop hit to center followed by Perez with a line drive to right field just getting over the second baseman's head which got Gordon to third. With runners on first and third Moustakas came through with a double to right field scoring Gordon and getting Perez to third. Infante had a poor at bat striking out and not looking good while doing it. Escobar followed that up with a weak ground ball between the pitching and first base, but due to confusion he beat out the tag to load the bases. Aoki followed that up with a bloop hit to score another run, giving the Royals a 2-0 lead with the bases still loaded and knock Peavy out of the game. In came Petit who had been unhitable all postseason, all the Royals did was got three hits, two doubles and scored five more runs.
MLS Playoff Preview / Projections
For 9 of the teams the MLS season is over while the other 10 teams move in to the playoffs. If you are not familiar with the MLS playoff format here is a brief over view.
Five teams from each conference make the playoffs with the #4 and #5 seeds playing in a one game winner take all game at the higher seeds stadium midweek in what is called the Knockout Round. If tied at the end of the game they will play two 15 minute overtime periods and if still tied will go to penalty kicks to decide the winner. Then the Conference Semifinals start a couple days later, the semifinals are a home-and-home series in which each team hosts one game. The score is cumulative between the two games and the team winning at the end of both games moves on. If they are tied on cumulative goals then whichever team scored the most in their road game wins, after looking at road goals they are still tied they will go right in to two 15 minute overtime periods. If they are still tied then they will go to penalty kicks. The two winning teams move on to the Conference Championships which will follow the exact same format as the semifinals. The two conference champions will move on to play in the MLS Cup with the team having the most points in the regular season hosting the MLS Cup. The MLS Cup is a one game winner take all game. If tied at the end of the game they will play two 15 minute overtime periods and if still tied will go to penalty kicks to decide the winner. View the final MLS standings
Five teams from each conference make the playoffs with the #4 and #5 seeds playing in a one game winner take all game at the higher seeds stadium midweek in what is called the Knockout Round. If tied at the end of the game they will play two 15 minute overtime periods and if still tied will go to penalty kicks to decide the winner. Then the Conference Semifinals start a couple days later, the semifinals are a home-and-home series in which each team hosts one game. The score is cumulative between the two games and the team winning at the end of both games moves on. If they are tied on cumulative goals then whichever team scored the most in their road game wins, after looking at road goals they are still tied they will go right in to two 15 minute overtime periods. If they are still tied then they will go to penalty kicks. The two winning teams move on to the Conference Championships which will follow the exact same format as the semifinals. The two conference champions will move on to play in the MLS Cup with the team having the most points in the regular season hosting the MLS Cup. The MLS Cup is a one game winner take all game. If tied at the end of the game they will play two 15 minute overtime periods and if still tied will go to penalty kicks to decide the winner. View the final MLS standings
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Sports Today 10/28/2014
Just like last Friday there is only one game that matters today, Game 6 of the World Series.
Well there Royals are there for only the second time in 29 years, a must win game. The last must game was 4 weeks ago today. I don't think the Royals can expect a repeat of 4 weeks ago, if they fall behind the Giants like they did the A's I don't think the outcome will be the same. That being said I think this game is winnable for the Royals and I fully expect them to win this game and force a game 7.
Well there Royals are there for only the second time in 29 years, a must win game. The last must game was 4 weeks ago today. I don't think the Royals can expect a repeat of 4 weeks ago, if they fall behind the Giants like they did the A's I don't think the outcome will be the same. That being said I think this game is winnable for the Royals and I fully expect them to win this game and force a game 7.
NFL Week 8 - 5 Thoughts / Top 5
Five thoughts on Week 8 of the NFL season:
1 - Congratulations to Payton Manning on breaking the NFL passing touchdown record. What is even more impressive is that Manning broke Farve's record is far less games. At this point Manning is showing no signs of slowing down which means he will keep adding to this record. This is not good since he plays for the Bronco's now. For now I can respectfully dislike Manning, but once he retirees I can going back to liking him. Here is hoping once the season is over we will see him on SNL again.
1 - Congratulations to Payton Manning on breaking the NFL passing touchdown record. What is even more impressive is that Manning broke Farve's record is far less games. At this point Manning is showing no signs of slowing down which means he will keep adding to this record. This is not good since he plays for the Bronco's now. For now I can respectfully dislike Manning, but once he retirees I can going back to liking him. Here is hoping once the season is over we will see him on SNL again.
Monday, October 27, 2014
College Football Playoff Power Rankings - Week 9
Below are my thoughts on where the college football teams stand at the end of the games on 10/25 and what I think the season will play out and what teams will actually make the four team playoff.
Top 4 teams as of this week: Remaining games against contenders:
1. Mississippi State 7-0 Alabama and @ Ole Miss
2. Florida State 7-0 None
3. Alabama 7-1 Mississippi State and Auburn
4. Oregon 7-1 None
Top 4 teams as of this week: Remaining games against contenders:
1. Mississippi State 7-0 Alabama and @ Ole Miss
2. Florida State 7-0 None
3. Alabama 7-1 Mississippi State and Auburn
4. Oregon 7-1 None
Sports Today 10/27/2014
While it is a quiet day for Kansas City sports, after a very busy Sunday, there is at least one game of interest today, while it might not be a good game.
NFL - Washington at Dallas
Washington and Dallas, once a game that would decide the division, a game where you could throw out the records, now like many rivalries doesn't mean as much anymore than another division game. I can remember a season where Dallas won only one game and it was against Washington while they were headed to the playoffs and the Cowboy fans felt like they had won the Super Bowl. The reason I have gone on so long about this is because I don't think Washington is good (their two wins are against Jacksonville 1-7 and Tennessee 2-6) and I still don't feel that Dallas is as good as their 6-1 record (only beating one team with a winning record). That being said Dallas will get more people on the bandwagon tonight as they will easily beat Washington. Dallas 31 Washington 13
NFL - Washington at Dallas
Washington and Dallas, once a game that would decide the division, a game where you could throw out the records, now like many rivalries doesn't mean as much anymore than another division game. I can remember a season where Dallas won only one game and it was against Washington while they were headed to the playoffs and the Cowboy fans felt like they had won the Super Bowl. The reason I have gone on so long about this is because I don't think Washington is good (their two wins are against Jacksonville 1-7 and Tennessee 2-6) and I still don't feel that Dallas is as good as their 6-1 record (only beating one team with a winning record). That being said Dallas will get more people on the bandwagon tonight as they will easily beat Washington. Dallas 31 Washington 13
Royals World Series Game 5 Review
Well going in to Game 5 I thought the Royals would have to play a perfect game to win and I was not sure if that would even do it. They would have to pitch, field, bat (move runners and scratch across a couple runs) and manage almost perfectly to have a chance. Shield's pitched well, made a couple mistakes, but the best he had all post season. The defense did not play their best and that had a direct impact on the first two runs scoring. The reliable bullpen (once the game was already out of reach) allowed San Francisco to close the door. Ned made some choices that seemed to be mid-season form allowing Yosted to start trending again in KC. As it turned out even if the Royals did not make half of these mistakes it was not going to be enough to beat Bumgarner and the Giants in Game 5.
Sporting vs Red Bulls 10/26/2014 Review
This was the first time since the Conference Final against Houston that I was able to make it back to Sporting Park for game. I have to say being away from the stadium has even more made me appreciate and realize how great of a sporting environment this is. Even with a team that had struggled (especially at home) this year the game day environment is amazing. I am not trying to take anything away from Arrowhead Stadium or Kauffman Stadium as these both can have great environments as well. With the stadium set-up, sold out games with standing room only, the sound system and video screens and boards I don't know how the crowd can not be worked up before a game.
Chiefs vs Rams Review
While the game may not have started great for the Chiefs, the outcome was definitely a great one. Anytime you can win by 10 points in the NFL it is a solid win, if you win my 20 that is a blowout, so a 27 point win is a great and easy win.
Let's start with the defense. Maybe they weren't awake, maybe they under estimated the Rams or maybe the Rams threw some new looks to them for the first drive, but the Chiefs let them march down the field 65 yards in 6 plays for an easy touchdown on the first drive. Whatever the reason the Chiefs D quickly figured it out, fixed the issue and dominated the Rams for the rest of the game not allowing another point. Including pushing them back far enough after a Charles fumble leaving the Rams in the red zone that they missed the field goal. On the first drive of the game the Chiefs gave up 10.8 yards per play, the remainder of the game the Chiefs only gave up 135 yards on 45 plays making that 3.0 yards per play. The defense was lead by Justin Houston with 3 sacks, putting him up to 10 on the season.
Let's start with the defense. Maybe they weren't awake, maybe they under estimated the Rams or maybe the Rams threw some new looks to them for the first drive, but the Chiefs let them march down the field 65 yards in 6 plays for an easy touchdown on the first drive. Whatever the reason the Chiefs D quickly figured it out, fixed the issue and dominated the Rams for the rest of the game not allowing another point. Including pushing them back far enough after a Charles fumble leaving the Rams in the red zone that they missed the field goal. On the first drive of the game the Chiefs gave up 10.8 yards per play, the remainder of the game the Chiefs only gave up 135 yards on 45 plays making that 3.0 yards per play. The defense was lead by Justin Houston with 3 sacks, putting him up to 10 on the season.
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Royals World Series Game 4 Review
Well that sucked! I could stop here, but I won't. The part that sucked was that the Royals had a 4-2 lead going to the bottom of the 5th and they could not make that stand. The Giants tied it up in the 5th and blew it open in the 6th scoring 3 and put it away in the 7th scoring 4.
Good news - this loss only tied up the series up at 2-2 and 2 of the 3 games are in KC. Bad news - Bumgarner is pitching game 5 for the Giants and is 3-0 in World Series starts and Perez's late home run in Game 1 is the only run he has given up. Good news - By starting Game 5 Bumgarner will not start again. Good news - HDR is rested and ready to go for Game 5 if/when needed.
The Royals were beat last night in a Royals way. In the 5th, 6th and 7th innings the Giants had a bunch of bloop, broken bat and well placed singles to score 9 runs. Both Hosmer and Perez had good nights at the plate going 6 for 9 scoring a run and 2 RBI's.
A loss by a run or 7 runs all count the same so no need to dwell on last night. Time to move forward and make history by giving Bumgarner his first World Series loss.
Sports Today 10/26/2014
In what could be a huge day for Kansas City sports here we go...
NFL
Chiefs vs Rams
The Chiefs through their first six games are 3-3, and I think at the start of the season if fans were told we can jump to the seventh game with a 3-3 record we would have all taken it. The Rams come in 2-4 playing like a team with nothing to lose. I think if St. Louis was not playing with nothing to lose this would be a fairly easy win for the Chiefs, but with nothing to lose the Rams will do anything to try and win, and if doesn't work they will lose anyway. After an exciting game early and then a blow out that went late by the Royals and a noon kickoff it may take the fans some work to get in to the game. So the Chiefs can not come out flat and let the Rams get an early lead. If the Chiefs play like they have the past few weeks and Andy Reid keeps dialing up the plays that should not be an issue.
I expect this to still be a game in to the 4th quarter, but I think the Chiefs will make the plays when needed to win by double digits. Chiefs 27 Rams 17
NFL
Chiefs vs Rams
The Chiefs through their first six games are 3-3, and I think at the start of the season if fans were told we can jump to the seventh game with a 3-3 record we would have all taken it. The Rams come in 2-4 playing like a team with nothing to lose. I think if St. Louis was not playing with nothing to lose this would be a fairly easy win for the Chiefs, but with nothing to lose the Rams will do anything to try and win, and if doesn't work they will lose anyway. After an exciting game early and then a blow out that went late by the Royals and a noon kickoff it may take the fans some work to get in to the game. So the Chiefs can not come out flat and let the Rams get an early lead. If the Chiefs play like they have the past few weeks and Andy Reid keeps dialing up the plays that should not be an issue.
I expect this to still be a game in to the 4th quarter, but I think the Chiefs will make the plays when needed to win by double digits. Chiefs 27 Rams 17
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Sports Today (Late Games) 10/25/2014
Now for the rest of the games today:
College Football
#10 Northwest Missouri State at Fort Hays State
After last week homecoming thrashing to Pitt State the Bearcats will have to travel all the way across the state of Kansas to Fort Hays to play the one team who has beat Pitt State this year. In a year where no DII team is flawless I felt Northwest may have been the closest before last weekend. The Bearcats need to regroup this week because a second loss now would likely leave them outside of the DII playoffs since Region 3 has so many good teams (there will be several good teams that will not make the playoffs). I think last weeks loss will get this team refocused and look for Northwest to bounce back. Northwest 31 Fort Hays 13
College Football
#10 Northwest Missouri State at Fort Hays State
After last week homecoming thrashing to Pitt State the Bearcats will have to travel all the way across the state of Kansas to Fort Hays to play the one team who has beat Pitt State this year. In a year where no DII team is flawless I felt Northwest may have been the closest before last weekend. The Bearcats need to regroup this week because a second loss now would likely leave them outside of the DII playoffs since Region 3 has so many good teams (there will be several good teams that will not make the playoffs). I think last weeks loss will get this team refocused and look for Northwest to bounce back. Northwest 31 Fort Hays 13
Royals World Series Game 3 Review
You could not have asked for a more typical Royal's game. Scratch out a few runs, get a very good starting pitching performance and the bullpen closes it out for a 3-2 with and a 2-1 lead in the World Series. The Royal's are two wins from winning the World Series. As pointed out last night all the Royal's have to do in the next 4 games is go .500 and they will win.....just let that think in for a moment.
The game started with Escobar driving a ball deep into the left field corner, which looked like it had a chance to get out, but started off with a lead off double. Then as the Royals in two outs they were able to work Escobar around to score and get the Royals off to a 1-0. Guthrie pitched a very good game and gave up 4 hits in 5 innings. Through 5 innings Guthrie had only faced one over the minimum thanks to Salvy catching a runner trying to steal. In the 6th inning Escobar got his second double of the night with 1 out. Then Gordon got going and hit another double scoring Escobar. Then with two outs birthday boy Hosmer came through with what turned out to be the game winning RBI hit and a 3-0 lead. In the bottom of the 6th the Giants finally got to Guthrie with a single and an RBI double (the only extra base hit the Royals would give up in the game). Herrera came in the game in the 6th inning again and walked the first batter, was able to get the next three batters out while letting one more run score, leaving the Royals with a 3-2 lead. Starting off the 7th Herrera was able to get an out and allows a walk which lead to Finnegan coming in to the game, yes the pitcher who in June lead TCU to the College World Series. All he did was got both batters out including a strikeout to end the inning. Davis looked great striking out 2 in the 8th and Holland got all three outs with out a ball getting out of the infield.
Spots Today (Early Games) 10/25/2014
Since I am running a 5K this morning I wanted to go over a couple early games that I have on my mind. I will be back later to go over a few more big college football games and game 4 of the World Series.
Arsenal at Sunderland
This is a huge game early in the season for Arsenal, while they only have one loss, they only have two wins. Arsenal played a mid-week Champions League game on the road and scored two late goals to win. So they have a little momentum on their side. Sunderland however is coming off a huge 8-0 defeat last weekend in the BPL. While these teams have similar records records and Arsenal are fighting injury problems (like they always seem to do) I feel Arsenal is the better team. However I think Sunderland is going to come out at home and prove they are better than last weeks result. I want to pick Arsenal in this game, but I keep coming back to a draw, so I am not sure which team it will be, but one of them will score a late goal to tie it up. Arsenal 2 / Sunderland 2
Arsenal at Sunderland
This is a huge game early in the season for Arsenal, while they only have one loss, they only have two wins. Arsenal played a mid-week Champions League game on the road and scored two late goals to win. So they have a little momentum on their side. Sunderland however is coming off a huge 8-0 defeat last weekend in the BPL. While these teams have similar records records and Arsenal are fighting injury problems (like they always seem to do) I feel Arsenal is the better team. However I think Sunderland is going to come out at home and prove they are better than last weeks result. I want to pick Arsenal in this game, but I keep coming back to a draw, so I am not sure which team it will be, but one of them will score a late goal to tie it up. Arsenal 2 / Sunderland 2
Halloween Hustle 5K
It is race morning, doing the Halloween Hustle 5K at Unity Village this is race 6 of 8 in the Holiday Races. The weather is suppose to be beautiful when the race starts with temps in the upper 50's. I am not be wearing a costume, but my daughter is in her cat costume. Not sure if I will be pushing her in her stroller for the start of the race or if my wife. Either way looking forward to get the race started.
Friday, October 24, 2014
Sports Today 10/24/2014
Well there is really only one game event today and that is Game 3 of the World Series! Kansas City is in a good spot right now tied 1-1 and while a win tonight would be huge they need to win one of the next two games. I don't want to see this team heading in to game 5 down 3-1. I want KC to either come back to town and play some more baseball, or have a little extra luggage on the plane with them.
What I expect tonight:
I expect a close game. Guthrie has pitched well as of late and I expect him to go 5 to 6 innings giving up a run or two. However I expect Hudson to do the same for the Giants. If the Royals can make Hudson work and get him out before the end of the 6th I think the Royals can scratch across enough runs to win. I am going with the Royals leading 4-2 going to the bottom of the 7th. HDH will give up a run but the Royals win 4-3.
I expect a close game. Guthrie has pitched well as of late and I expect him to go 5 to 6 innings giving up a run or two. However I expect Hudson to do the same for the Giants. If the Royals can make Hudson work and get him out before the end of the 6th I think the Royals can scratch across enough runs to win. I am going with the Royals leading 4-2 going to the bottom of the 7th. HDH will give up a run but the Royals win 4-3.
It is time to #TakeTheCrown and for KC to light another pillar on Bartle Hall!
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