Friday, December 30, 2011

UFC 141


With the preliminaries for UFC 141 starting on Facebook in a couple of hours, it’s time for some last minute picks. With Vegas already supercharged for New Years, a battle of behemoths combining for 500 plus pounds is icing on the cake. Throw some strawberry topping on top of that with the Diaz-Cowboy matchup, and now we really have an effin party. The card is stacked and props go out to Joe Silva for putting together some interesting matchups. The prelims are highlighted by the “Manvil” vs. Diego Nunez scrap but also includes Ultimate Fighter winners Ross Pearson and Efrain Escudero, as well as Matt Riddle and the “Stun Gun.” We’re really excited for this show. There is a guaranteed slobber knocker in the Castillo-Kjokuani tilt. Both of those guys are sluggers.

Let’s get to the main fights on tonight’s card. It starts with John Fitch and Johny Hendricks. Fitch is a very well balanced fighter and all he does is win. Fitch is perceived as a boring fighter because he doesn’t use exciting finishes. Hendricks is a powerhouse wrestler who could control this bout if he can get Fitch down. We’re pulling for Johny but the smart money says Fitch takes a unanimous decision.

In the co-main event, we have two firecrackers set to explode. Nate Diaz and Cowboy Cerrone have done a good job of promoting their matchup with the “flip of the cowboy hat” and random trash talking. This has all the makings of a classic. Both guys are relentless and have shown they can take a beating before turning the tables for a victory. Cerrone is the favorite. Although both a personal favorites, we’re also taking “the Cowboy.”

Last is the heavyweight smackdown for the title of “#1 Contender". Ha ha, that makes it seem like professional wrestling. MMA fans have been clamoring for Overeem in the UFC for quite some time and a welcoming committee of Brock Lesnar is just what we wanted. Lesnar has the wrestling advantage but Overeem has a huge striking and experience edge. It plays out with Lesnar trying to takedown Overeem but he’ll eventually get caught with a shin to the melon. Overeem by TKO in Round 1 which is bad since we're routing for Brock. Enjoy the fights as they should be great and keep an eye on the Hawkeyes in the Insight Bowl, which might not be so great.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Mizzou and SEC

The SEC has announced their 2012 conference schedule and Tiger fans are excited. All I've heard today on the radio is Missouri hosts Alabama. The Crimson Tide is coming to Columbia. The Tigers ended up in the traditionally weaker East Division and the schedule is actually pretty favorable. Mizzou still has yet to announce three more non confernece games but with home games against Georgia and Arizona St also, it'll be a great time to get season tickets. Speaking of Mizzou tickets, they offer a Family 5 Pack deal on season tickets for just under $600. That seems like a steal with the SEC boys coming to town.

Missouri Tigers 2012 Schedule (so far)...
Sept. 8: GEORGIA
Sept. 15: ARIZONA STATE
Sept. 22: at South Carolina
Oct. 6: VANDERBILT
Oct. 13: ALABAMA
Oct. 27: KENTUCKY
Nov. 3: at Florida
Nov. 10: at Tennessee
Nov. 24: at Texas A& M

Saturday, December 10, 2011

FCS Playoffs and the Heisman

It's Awards Week in college football. Most of the major awards were handed out on ESPN but the big one remains for tonight. But before we announce RG3 as our Heisman vote recipient, WHOOPS, let's take a quick moment to pick the rest of the quarterfinals of the FCS Playoffs. In last night's showdown the Northern Iowa Panthers visited the Montana Grizzlies and apparently forgot how to tackle. The co-Big Sky Champions hammered the co-Missouri Valley kings as Grizzly QB Jordan Johnson pretty much dominated the game. It was brutal for us UNI alum. But a great season none the less for the Panthers.

Here's our picks for the rest of the FCS Playoffs...
North Dakota St -9.5
Lehigh and North Dakota St enter the game with 11-1 records. Lehigh's All-American wideout Ryan Spadola has being suspended for the game for retweeting an offensive message. Spadola had 96 catches, 1600 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns. That's too much to overcome so we'll take the fourth-ranked Bison to cover.

Maine +7.5
Maine takes on Southern Conference Champion Georgia Southern. Don't now much about either team other than Georgia Southern hung around with 'Bama for a bit a few weeks ago. Dj Gallo said the CAA is the SEC of the Football Championship Subdivision so we'll take the Black Bears and the points.

Sam Houston St -8
Top seeded and undeafeated on the season, Sam Houston St hosts Montana St. We'll take the top-ranked team at home. We gotta cut this short as they're kicking off now.

And finally our vote from Heisman, if we actually had a vote, goes to Robert Griffen III. He's been the most exciting of the finalists all season long and has turned Baylor around the past two seasons. RG3! RG3!
Enjoy the weekends everyone and drink a couple of your frosty beverages. We'll take some Black-n-Blues.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Championship Weekend Pix

Welcome to Championship Weekend. The dust will settle and six conferences will crown their champs starting Friday night with the MAC and the Pac-12. Speaking of the Pac-12, when the powers that be were envisioning their inaugural title game, I wonder if they saw a 6-6 team “sneak” in and be a 31 ½ point underdog? Now that’s real exciting stuff for the Pac-12. Besides the Ducks’ backers, who doesn’t want to see UCLA pull off the huge upset and roll into the BSC Bowls. Oklahoma and Oklahoma St face off in the Bedlam Game with the winner claiming the Big 12 title, which still came down to the final week even though restructuring wiped out it’s championship game. The Football Championship Subdivision’s playoffs continue as there are eight Second Round games to follow. Go Panthers! The final question, can Michigan St and Wisconsin repeat their epic finish from earlier in the year. Here’s this week’s “6 Pack O’ Championship Pix” and a couple bonuses…

Ohio +3.5
Oregon/UCLA Over 66
Houston -12.5
LSU -13
Virginia Tech -7.5
Wisconsin -9

Bonus Picks...
Oklahoma +3.5
Baylor -2.5
New Mexico +48.5

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Corso Whoops

Lee Corso adds to his Legend on College Gameday from Houston a couple of weeks ago. Thanks to everyone that caught that and posted it on YouTube.

Friday, November 25, 2011

WWE 12

WWE '12 will celebrate the rebirth of the iconic and authentic simulation franchise through a bigger game, badder presentation and better gameplay than ever before, delivering long-awaited critical improvements to the core gameplay experience, the most creative and extensive feature set to date and a visceral, edgy and polished presentation. Players will become part of WWE through extensive gameplay advancements, including the brand new Breaking Point submission system, new Attributes and control layout as well as significant improvements to other key gameplay systems. WWE Universe Mode 2.0 will generate new and more impactful elements of unpredictability based on player decisions, while dynamic visual changes to gameplay presentation, including new animations, camera positions, lighting and improved rendering, will set the tone for delivering an exceptional simulation of WWE programming.

Get the new WWE '12 here!

Saturday, November 19, 2011

6 Pack O' Pix Week 12

When ESPN’s College Gameday announced they were going to spend the weekend, it seemed like it might be a ho-hum slate of games. And then what happens? Iowa St. comes out of no where to knock off Oklahoma St. and blows up the BCS. All of a sudden, a lot of games look interesting again and we’re ready for some ball. There is new hope in Oregon, Alabama, and Soonerville and only a few weeks left for the BCS Championship picture to play out. We’re still blown away but Iowa St, even after a night of sleep. The Cyclones out gained the Cowboys top ranked offense. That’s crazy. We’re just a couple hours away from the day starting with a tussle in the Big House and it ends with showdowns in Eugene, Waco, and Austin.

Last week we enjoyed another 3-5 week of picks as the slump reached four weeks. To add insult, the Hawkeyes got pounded and might be bowling in Detroit. That’s just fabulous. There’s still time to turn it around and it starts today. Here are this weeks “6 Pack O’ Picks”…

Clemson -7.5
Nebraska +3.5
Kansas St +7.5
Miami FL -1
USC/Oregon over 69
Boise St -17

And the 2 Homers, Mizzou and Iowa…
Iowa -1.5
Texas Tech +18

On a side note, how does Texas Tech go from being an explosive team, beating Oklahoma, to now, where they can’t fight out of a wet paper bag? And finally, did you hear that Iowa St. knocked off #2 Oklahoma St? Unbelievable!

Thursday, November 17, 2011

MLB Awards 2011

The MLB Awards Week is here and the heavy hardware is being handed out. That means it time of our winners also. First off, a few congratulations are in order though for some impressive milestones that were passed. Leading off is a couple of Yankees. Mariano Rivera become the all-time saves leader and ended the season with 603 saves. Derek Jeter whacked his 3000th hit and became the first player in Pinstripes to eclipse that mark. And all around good guy, Jim Thome joined the 600 home run club. The St Louis Cardinals won their 11th World Series title and afterwards Tony LaRussa retired. LaRussa is a great coach and had a great career, hopefully there is room in the Hall of Fame for his ego.

A couple of pretty impressive streaks ended this season too. Ichiro had a streak of 10 concestutive seaons with at least 200 hits. He fell short and only hit safely 184 this season. The man, Albert Pujols missed his 11th straight .300/30/100 season by a nose hair. His season ended at 299/37/99. That's right, Pujols needed one rbi and one more hit or one less at bat. A kick in the balls in if you ask me.

And to get to the point. Here are theSportStew MLB Award winners presented with Topps baseball cards.


AL MVP

Miguel Cabrera, DET (1)....64
Jacob Elsberry, BOS (1).....44
Justin Verlander, DET (1)....38
Curtis Granderson, NYY.....32
Jose Bautista, TOR...........26









NL MVP

Matt Kemp, LAD (3).......106
Ryan Braun, MIL............51
Prince Fielder, MIL........24










AL CY YOUNG

Justin Verlander, DET (3)...106
Jered Weaver, LAA.............44
CC Sabathia, NYY...............35
James Shield, TB................23
Jose Valverde, DET............11









NL CY YOUNG

Clayton Kershaw, LAD (3)..106
Roy Halladay, PHI.............65
Cliff Lee, PHI.....................45
Ian Kennedy, ARI..............11










AL ROY

Jeremy Hellickson, TAM.......50
Eric Hosmer, KC (1)...........37
Ivan Nova, NYY (1)............37
Brett Lawrie, TOR (1).........37
Mark Trumbo, LAA.............24
Ben Revere, MIN................11
Jordan Waldon, LAA..........11







NL ROY

Vance Worley, PHI..............64
Freddie Freeman, ATL (1)....44
Craig Kimbrel, ATL (1)........44
Jesus Guzman, SD (1)........38
Corey Luebke, SD...............11









AL MANAGER

Joe Maddon, TB (3)..........106
Ron Washington, TEX.......37
Manny Acta, CLE.............24
Jim Leyland, DET............24
Joe Girardi, NYY..............11










NL MANAGER

Kirk Gibson, ARI (3)...........106
Freddi Gonzalez, ATL...........44
Don Mattingly, LAD.............31
Ron Roenicke, MIL...............11
Tony LaRussa, STL..............11

Saturday, November 12, 2011

College Pigskin Pix Week 11

Last Saturday was a pretty exciting day of games. It started out with a big Hawkeye win and ended with the Oklahoma St-Kansas St shootout. You cant forget the #1 vs. #2 showdown either but that was the most boring overtime game I can remember. Northwestern pulled off the upset of the day by beating Nebraska in Lincoln.

Let's jump back to this week and the showcase game is on the west coast as Oregon and Stanford do battle. It promises to be a great game. In another big game for some of the wrong reasons is Penn St hosting Nebraska. It's an important game for both in regards to making the inaugural Big 10 Championship game. We almost forgot Michigan St at Iowa, another pivotal game in the Big 10 race.

We struggled with our picks last week going 3-5, so it's time to turn things around. This week it's time to shake things up. We're either going to look like a genius or a dumbass. For the picks for this week, something happened that never happens. We like all road teams today with an exception for the Black and Gold. Here are this weeks "6 Pack O' Pix and 2 Homers"...

Nebraska -4
Florida +2.5
Baylor -20
Miami, FL +10.5
Michigan +1
Oregon +3

2 Homers...
Texas -1
Iowa +3

Saturday, November 5, 2011

LSU's Honey Badger

With all the talk this Alabama and LSU game has received, I'm sure you've heard them mention the honey badger. It is LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu. Check out the Honey Badger video if you haven't watched it yet. Funny stuff.

Week 10 College Pigskin Pix

Wow last week was pretty brutal. Hawkeyes lost to one of the worst teams in football, the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The Panthers lost their Top 5 showdown in North Dakota. And we also had a losing record at 3-5 on our picks. Tough, tough week.

The biggest game is SEC history is tonight, thank goodness, because all the hype is starting to get old. Don't forget about the other games today as the schedule is peppered with a plethora of great match ups throughout the day. The Big 12 Network, if their was one, would be awesome. Texas Tech at Texas, followed by A&M at Boomer Sooner, with the prime time showdowns Mizzou at Baylor and K State at Okie St. Add in the other SEC battle, the Gamecocks and Razorbacks. It's a great day to sit back downing a few brew-ha-has and practicing working the remote control. Almost forgot the #1 vs. #2 game. Miles at Sabin. Tigers vs Tide. Um, you get the picture, we've been blasted with that crap for two solid weeks.

Let's get to the money talk, it's time for this week's 6 Pack O' Pix and 2 Homers. A lot of road teams are smelling good today...

Texas Tech +14
The Dawg Special. The Red Raiders are hoping to rebound from a dismal performance against Iowa St. The Longhorns seem to struggle against decent teams but are at home. It seems like too many points and We have a feeling Tech wont need them.

Texas A&M +15
The Aggies have looked really good at times this year, but have also played pretty pathetic at other times. Oklahoma has been getting off the slow starts in the last few games and them turning it on. This is usually the time of the season Stoops starts running up scores and complaining about the BCS standings. A&M keeps it close, hopefully.

Florida International -3
The Panthers are enjoying one of their better seasons and are facing Western Kentucky who has struggled mightily since moving up from the FCS division, until this year. Plus FIU is our team in the NCAA Football dynasty so we had to sneak them in one of these.

Pittsburgh +3.5
Cincinnati has been playing well lately while the Panthers haven't. Pitt is at home and in a match up of mediocre teams, we lean towards the home team especially when they're underdogs. We're expecting a nice ground game from Ray Graham and Pitt take a close one.

Oklahoma St -21
The spread seems too high for a game against the 14th ranked Kansas St Wildcats. That usually means the "experts" in Vegas know something. Or they're crazy. The Cowboys can toss the rock and have made it look easily. Expect it to happen again. How old is this Weeden guy anyway? Shouldn't he be coaching?

LSU +4
This game will feature a few future NFLers. The Tigers have the better team but the game is in Tuscaloosa. The Tide Trent Richardson is a monster but as he gets gassed, the Tiger's physical defense can take control. Look for Alabama to make some mistakes in the passing game that gives LSU the win. We have a feeling that this could be a high scoring game.

Finally down to the homers and it's not looking good...
Michigan -5
Iowa needs one more win to get Bowl eligible and its going to be an uphill road. The Hawk defense has been terrible of late and dealing with Denard wont help. We're starting to hear some rumors involving Mike Stoops and the program doesn't need a psychotic asshole like that. Steer clear fellas. Back to the game, the Wolverines control the clock with a mix of Robinson and add a touchdown or two late. Hopefully we're wrong

Baylor - 2.5
Mizzou gets to try to defend RG3, who is having a great year. Baylor has a better team on paper and is home. Da Bears.

Enjoy the games and stay thirsty.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Week 9 Pigskin Pix

Well most of the college football world is focused on the huge match up a week away. But don't forget about the game of this week. You wont find it featured in a BCS conference. In fact it's not even on the radar of most college fans. But it's here and it's big. The Fargodome. It's the 3rd ranked Bison hosting the 2nd ranked Panthers. It's Missouri Valley Football, yeah its not just a basketball conference, and it's a potential championship preview. It's crazy but at 3pm we"ll be tuning in a a game that not many in the Bible Belt cares about. Thank you Internet. Go Panthers!

Last week we struggled through a 4-4 weekend. We didn't lose, but we didn't add to the pot for the Bowl Week Extravaganza. That's O.K. Most people are focused on the Big 12, cough cough, this week and they have a great tilt featuring Mizzou-A&M, Oklahoma-K State, Baylor-Okie St, and the Cyclowns-Texas Tech. Sorry added that last game as a joke. The smart money has us looking at the Big 10.

Here's the 6 Pack O' Pix Legends and Leaders style. Really hope the Big 10 brass decide on a name change, it's...lame.

Nebraska -4
Michigan St had a ridiculous hail mary TD catch last week and they are apparently much better that we gave them credit for. Sparty has knocked off Ohio St, Michigan, and Wisconsin in their last three games and a win in Lincoln wraps up most tiebreakers for the trip in Indy. Nebraska has a glaring weakness, it's called Martinez Passing. Everything I see points to the Spartans, so I'm going with the Huskers at home. Crazy, just f*ckin crazy.

Northwestern -8.5
Northwestern is the most dangerous 0-4 conference team around. Every game has been close. Persa is probable it looks like. Indiana's defense is bad, allowing 33 points a game. They'll surprise someone this season, just not the Wildcats.

Michigan -12.5
Purdue has surprised folks during the conference games after completely stinking up their non-conference schedule. The Boilermakers need to contain DenardX, not sure if that's still his Twitter handle or not, as he's racked up 700 yards on the ground already this season. Michigan's defense is better under Hoke, Purdue won't be able to keep pace.

Wisconsin -7
Bucky Badger is pissed. They lost on a fluke play. Brutus Buckeye is licking his wounds after an abrasive off season. We're looking at a night game at the Shoe, on Halloween no doubt, it's gonna be good. The Badgers ride their running game and run the Buckeyes out of gas. The Badgers cover the points with some late game scoring runs.

Arkansas -10.5
Honestly, not sure how the Hogs keep winning this year. They came in under our radar but have climbed up to a top 10 ranking. Vandy has looked good in non-conference games but not so well in the SEC. The Razorbacks like to toss the rock and they do it well. Looks like a double digit win for the Hogs

USC +7.5
The Dawg Special. Did we forget about the Trojans? Just because they're on probation? The Trojans kept most of their skilled players but somehow fell off the map. It's still USC, they still have Barkley and all their 5 star recruits. Don't get me wrong, Luck is a stud and Stanford is good. But USC is looking for revenge for the huge upset loss to Stanford a few years ago and they just might repay the favor today.

And the 2 Homers...
Iowa -14.5
Umm, Minnesota has struggled. Really struggled. They even lost to a FCS team. The Gopher defense ranks among the worse in Division I football. Not good when you are looking at a Marcus Coker value meal. Look for the Hawks to pound Coker again and again to open up the passing game. The Hawkeye defense has been miserable this year. They bend and bend and bend; and then break under Norm Parker's no blitz defense. Eventually that defense scheme or Ferentz lack of knowing when to use timeouts will bite the Hawks in the ass. It wont be this week though, as a 45-0 score wont surprise me.

Texas A&M -11
Unfortunately we trying to adapt the Tigers this year with the relocation. And they have continuously disappointed and cost us. But A&M has disappointed more often. Mizzou needs to get T.J. Moe the ball...time out folks, it wont matter. The Tigers have some problems. Why do they line up in shotgun on 1st and goal inside the 5. Tiger's QB Franklin has been inconsistent. We don't expect big things from the Aggies but this week they do enough.

Enjoy the games, enjoy the drinks. Take care, spike your hair. Woo Woo Woo, Broski. Haha.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Pigskin Pix Week 8

We had a blast at the Iowa-Northwestern game last weekend. The Hawks were able to snap the losing streak to those pesky Wildcats. True to form, Northwestern wouldn’t quit and kept the game close. It was great seeing everybody again and we’ll try to sneak another trip up north. There were a lot of blowouts, it seemed and this week it seems like a lot teams are on bye weeks. However, there are a few intriguing matchups out there. LSU hosts Auburn and it will be interesting to see LSU without the Honey Badger this week. By the way, what is synthetic marijuana anyway? The day will end with what should be tightly contested Big 10 battle when Wisconsin invades Sparta.

Last week we had another 5-3 week to continue the winning trend. Our epic fail was picking Iowa St. That’s the last time. This week’s picks are just based on gut feelings. The boss is in the store today and I’m supposed to be helping with inventory. So anyway, here’s today’s 6 Pack O’ Pix …

Illinois -5
Kansas St -12
Wake Forest -4.5
Auburn +21
USC +9.5 (Dawg Special)
Wisconsin -8

And 2 Homers, Iowa and Mizzou for you new folks…
Indiana +23
Oklahoma St -8.5

Enjoy the games and don’t forgot to have a couple of your favorite frosty beverages!

Monday, October 17, 2011

Dan Wheldon 1978-2011

Dan Wheldon 2008 Iowa Corn Indy 250 Darrell Ingham/Getty ImagesCondolences to Wheldon's family, team, and friends. Thanks for the memories both on and off the track.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Pigskin Pix Week 7

There won’t be much hub bub this week as we are currently on a 5 hour road trip to Iowa City for the big night game between the Hawkeyes and Coach Fitzgerald’s Northwestern Wildcats. Maybe we’ll get some pictures, night games at Kinnick are pretty awesome. Last week we got back to our winning ways, going 5-3 and we hit with USC on Thursday night. Let the good times (continue to) roll. Here’s a peek at our 6 Pack o’ Pix and 2 Homers for this weekend, which we’ll call Road Warrior Weekend. Fourteen ranked teams are playing away from home…

Michigan +2.5
The battle between the Spartans and Wolverines feature two of the top 8 teams in scoring defense. DenardX’s run game ends up being the difference as Michigan ekes out a close win and takes control in the Legend’s Division.

Baylor +8.5
While Texas A&M continues to disappoint including their narrow win last week, RG3 continues to put up asinine numbers with 19 TDs to only 1 interception through five games. Add the fact that he’s facing one of the worst pass defenses in the nation. This was almost the Dawg Special but we got something better later.

Oklahoma St -7
The Cowboys come riding into Austin on the Weeden-Blackmon Express. The Longhorns won’t be able to score often enough to keep up with the Pokes.

Ohio St +3
The surprising Illini are off to a 6-0 record. Ohio St is looking at a third straight Big 10 loss. The Buckeyes have to many athletes and Illinois is due for a slip up.

Auburn +2
I know, this is the 3rd week in a row. Have I mentioned I think Chizik is a punk? Florida is done without Brantley at the helm.

Clemson -7.5
Really I have no reasoning on this one. I know Clemson has beaten 3 ranked teams and Maryland got shellacked by Temple so…no research is needed and that's the way I roll.

Up next and finally, the 2 Homers…
Iowa -6.5
Possibly am blinded by the Black n Gold here. Northwestern has won 3 straight games at Kinnick and 5 of the last 6 in the series. It’s a must win game, for both teams actually, and Kinnick is usually rocking for the night games. I guess they may be doing the stripes again as I’m in a gold shirt section.

Iowa St +15.5
The Dawg Special! It’s Mizzou’s homecoming and Columbia is ready to party. But come on folks, 15 ½ points. Iowa St isn’t very good, but neither are the Tigers. Well, actually Mizzou has only lost to teams that are now ranked and by 10 points or less in each game. Hmm, maybe the experts do know something. Not so fast my friends, Steele Jantz calls on the power of his cool name to bring the rains to Columbia.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

College Pigskin Pix Week 6

There were some crazy games last week. Seven ranked teams lost, although some lost to other ranked teams. Man, Wisconsin looked really good in destroying Nebraska and the Huskers pretty much showed every team how to beat them. Make Martinez pass. He really struggles there. Texas A&M had the second massive collapse in the past two weeks. This week’s action is headlined by the Red River Rivalry, Oklahoma visiting Texas. Should be interesting with both teams undefeated. You can always count on the SEC to give football fans a marquee matchup. Florida travels to top ranked LSU and Auburn faces Arkansas. Normally Ohio St and Nebraska would draw big headlines, but the Buckeyes have kind of fallen on hard times. Haha.

We really struggled last week on our picks going 2-4 with a push. Auburn and Notre Dame were our only winners. Somehow Georgia Tech gave up two touchdowns in the final 34 seconds and RG3 couldn’t spin enough magic in a wild game. Here’s the picks for this weekend, enjoy the games and enjoy a few of your favorite brews…

Oklahoma -10.5
The Sooners are too good on defense for the New McCoy to handle.

LSU -13
Rumor has it the Gators will be without Brantley and starting a freshman QB. Some dude named Driskel. The Tigers’ defense is eagerly waiting for feeding time.

Arizona -2
Nick Foley has a field day spanking the Beavers.

Auburn +10
This week’s Dawg Special. For the second week in a row the Tigers are double digit dogs.

Michigan -7
As long as DenardX doesn’t have to pass the ball, the Wolverines are in good shape. Northwestern does have Persa back at QB but it’s only his second game since the Achilles injury.

Texas Tech +9.5
The Red Raiders host Texas A&M, who hasn't been able to put together a complete game lately. It seems like too many points.

And finally, the homer picks…
Iowa +4
Penn St has looked very unimpressive all year. The Hawkeyes pull off another upset in Happy Valley.

Kansas St +4
The Wildcats have defeated Miami and Baylor already. This should be a close game. We’re taking K-State strictly because they’re a home underdog.

Friday, September 30, 2011

College Pigskin Pix Week 5

Seriously is there any doubt that college football is awesome. LSU looked dominant again and was rewarded with the #1 ranking. The Oklahoma St/Texas A&M game was just crazy. Mizzou gave Oklahoma a scare, for a while anyway. This Saturday ends with two monster showdowns. Alabama and Florida tangle and Nebraska gets its first taste of Big 10 conference play at Wisconsin. Camp Randall is gonna be freakin nuts. A note to Husker fans road tripping to the game, take lots of beer because they quit selling booze at 9pm on Saturday. At least they did a couple years ago when I visited for a Hawkeye game.

We had a stellar week as we went 6-2 on our picks. Missouri and USC were our losers. I’m really proud of last week’s Dawg Special, Temple. They beat Maryland 38-7. Nice call on that one. Here’s our picks for this weekend, enjoy the games and enjoy a few of your favorite brews…

Boise St -27
Nevada ruined Boise’s potential title game and with the Wolfpack losing most of their stars to graduation, it’s payback time this year.

Baylor -3.5
You can’t stop RG3. That dude is a monster. In 3 games, almost 1000 yards passing, 13 TDs, and only 12 incompletions.

Georgia Tech -10
The Yellow Jackets are in deep trouble if they have to pass, because they can’t. They won’t have to worry about that this week, as NC St can’t stop the run.

Auburn +10.5
In the Battle of Coaches I Can’t Stand, I dislike Spurrier more.

Notre Dame -12
Notre Dame has many issues but Purdue lost to Rice and had to comeback to beat Middle Tennessee St.

Nebraska +9.5
The Dawg Special. It’s Wilson vs. Martinez. 10 points is a lot. Either team could win this but I think the Badgers are a more complete team. Bucky wins in a close one.

With Iowa and Mizzou off this week we have to take an NFL homer…
Vikings -3
The Chiefs are a MASH unit and they struggle to stop the run. Peterson carries 100 times this week and Vikes get their 1st win.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

College Football Week 4 Pix

We’re a few weeks late on the season, but the relocation is almost complete. Finally have internet and cable hooked up so it’s time to start building that nest egg for Bowl season. The weekend slate of games should provide some quality time for sports fans to bond with their favorite beer. Four match ups of ranked teams highlight the Week 4 schedule. Hopefully the man cave is operational or you may have to visit your favorite pub-n-grub because three of the battles, Oklahoma St/Texas A&M, Arkansas/Alabama, and Florida St/Clemson, kick off in the mid afternoon time slot. LSU continues their murderous schedule with a road game against West Virginia for the prime time cool down. Start the day off with the Hawkeye game, and your day is full. We got off to a great start last week, even though not being able to watch the games really sucked. Stanford, Oklahoma St, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Iowa St covered while we missed on Michigan St and Northwestern. Without further babble, here are our picks for this week and good luck to the speculators out there…

Michigan -10 ½
Denard Robinson should have a lethal day against San Diego St.
LSU -5 ½
The ferocious Tiger defense puts on another display and leads LSU to a victory at West Virginia
Oregon -15
The Wildcat defense was no match for Stanford last week and the Ducks are more dynamic. Ducks in a snoozer.
USC +2 ½
The Trojans are more talented than Arizona St on both sides of the ball. Matt Barkely puts in another solid day at the office and Trojans win handily.
SMU -23
Memphis is already looking forward to basketball. Look for June Jones' offense to score and score often.
Temple +8
Dawg Special. We'll have to see another ridiculous Maryland uniform and the Owls are pretty good. Temple wont need the points and wins outright.

Finally for the home town teams, the Hawkeyes and Mizzou...
Iowa -17 ½
Marcus Coker gets the Hawks rolling early and ULM is out manned.
Oklahoma -19 ½
Mizzou has looked pretty bad so far this year and Oklahoma is just too stacked.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

9/11

Today is the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. I clearly remember where I was at, as I'm sure many others do, when the news of what was going on reached me. It was all very surreal and still is. We want to take a moment to remember the victims and heroes of these tragic events. Also, thanks to the many members of the military and civil servants for what you do. Your sacrifices help make a better tomorrow.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

NHL 12 by EA Sports

NHL 12 from EA Sports is due to be released in a few days, actually Sept. 13.

Amazon.com Product Description

NHL 12 is EA Sports annual hockey video game that puts players on the ice with the ultimate goal to become the next great superstar of the hockey world as you lead your team to a Stanley Cup championship. Features include a new full contact physics engine, Anticipation AI, the ability to take control of a team in 'Be a GM' mode, a comprehensive career mode, all-new dynamic goalie interaction that includes the ability of goalies to fight, the NHL's Winter Classic game, multiplayer support and more.

Become the Sport's Next Superstar in NHL 12

Be the next legend in hockey with NHL 12. As the sport's next superstar, earn every shift on the ice with stellar play, big hits, and spectacular goals and prove you have the toughness and skill to lead your team to the Stanley Cup. Take to the ice in all-new interactive environments where bone-crushing hits, glass-shattering collisions, and bruising checks along the boards are always part of the action. Experience the intensity, speed and physicality of authentic NHL hockey action with NHL 12.

Key Game Features

Full-contact Physics Engine - From shattered glass and flying helmets to knocking players over the boards and into the bench, experience the skill and aggression of hockey like never before. Crash the crease too hard and you'll knock the net off and send the goalie flying.

Anticipation AI - Anticipation AI brings NHL 12 to life like never before. Players will now anticipate the flow of the play. Watch as they break for stretch passes or drag their skates to stay onside.

Be a GM Mode - Take control of your favorite team and guide them to victory, with more accuracy and depth than ever before with an all-new sim engine and Action Tracker.

EA Sports Action Tracker - Track every important event that occurs on the ice. View replays and find tendencies including where to score on individual goalie, what zone you're losing face-offs in and where hits have taken place.

Be a Pro Revamped - Playing as your created pro, earn every shift on the ice with stellar play, big hits, and spectacular goals. Simulate the action to your next shift so you're always on the ice as you play out your entire career gunning for the Stanley Cup.

All-new Dynamic Goalie Interaction - Stonewall your opponents with awe-inspiring desperation saves from your goalie as he covers every possible angle and works through screens and flying players in front of the net.

Goalies Drop the Gloves - When the action boils over, send a message by leaving the net, dropping the gloves, and trading punches with a heated rival during fights.

Hockey's Ultimate Team - Hockey's Ultimate Team returns to NHL 12 with Three Stars of the Week cards, the ability to injure players, injury cards that heal them, the chance to play a friend, even when they aren't online, and more.

Play the Winter Classic - The NHL package jumps to life with NHL Winter Classic, the league's premier outdoor hockey event on New Year's Day. Play under snowfall at Pittsburgh's Heinz Field as 70,000+ rabid fans provide inspiration while donning Winter Classic gear.
Multiplayer Support - NHL 12 features multiplayer options both in local and online play.

You can get NHL 12 here.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Terrelle Pryor: Bad Gamble

Terrelle Pryor's nightmare of an off season finally ended. And it ended just the way he wanted. In the NFL and most likely rich, well temporarily anyway. Pryor was picked in the 3rd round of the NFL Supplemental Draft by the Raiders on Monday. Al Davis is a sucker for speed and size so he took the gamble on the 6-foot-5, 235 pound ex-Buckeye quarterback. The experts say it was a low risk pick for the Raiders as he has the physical tools to play wide receiver or tight end also.

HEY! Haven't you so called experts watched any of Pryor's mostly pathetic college career? Well, let me give you a quick refresher. He was one of the top players coming out of high school. Championship expectations were constantly heaped on him and he continually proved he couldn't handle the spotlight. Oh, the Buckeyes won games, often despite Pryor's play. His three seasons of playing at the Horseshoe will mostly be forgotten due to his poor decisions off the field leading to the resignation of Jim Tressel.

Time to grab the Android powered phone and start up the Magic 8 Ball app. The future of Terrelle Pryor has been revealed and it's mostly cloudy. He's more like a Maurice Clarette than a Troy Smith, and neither accomplished much in the NFL. He's immature and will squander his riches. And let's not forget the intoxicated assault or the strip bar fight that is destined to occur. Pryor's journey will take him full cycle and it ends with him working at a Columbus, OH car dealership. Possibly as a top sales consultant but I'm putting my money on a position that he's more qualified for... detailing department.

Monday, August 22, 2011

EA Sports' Madden NFL 12

Here it is. The newest addition to the Madden franchise. Peyton Hillis won the tournament style vote to win the cover lets see if he can avoid the real-life Madden Cover Jinx. This it available on August 30th. Let the all nighters begin.

Amazon.com Product Description
Madden NFL 12 continues the rich tradition of the storied franchise by bringing fans closer to the NFL than ever before. Featuring all 32 teams, stadiums, and your favorite players in the league, Madden NFL 12 is true to the game.

All-New Collision System
Now maintain full control of players up to the point of impact - from tackling to blocking - providing the most authentic collisions in franchise history. This new system uses a player's momentum and over 100 new tackle animations, including 40 gang tackles, to provide more impactful hits, stolen tackles, and consecutive hit tackling.

Advanced Defensive AI
Over 100 defensive A.I. enhancements resulting in the smartest Madden defense ever. Players in zone and man coverage will properly recognize and react to plays, including the ability to break out of assignments when appropriate, resulting in a defensive team that truly works together.

Custom Playbooks
The #1 most requested feature by fans in recent years, allows you to build the ultimate game plan by modifying an existing playbook or creating your own by selecting up to 400 offensive or defensive plays from 75 different playbooks. Integrate your custom playbook into a game plan for use with the improved GameFlow system, which executes an authentic, situational game plan for you.

Broadcast Redefined
Experience NFL Sundays like never before with completely overhauled presentation, including 32 team-specific run outs featuring mascots and cheerleaders, over 500 dynamic broadcast cameras authentic to every NFL stadium, innovative "real" on-field cameras shot by expert NFL Films cameramen, and a network inspired new broadcast graphics package.

Unprecedented On-Field Authenticity
Hundreds of visual improvements across all areas of the game including: new player equipment, helmet stickers, pylon and ball physics, a player degradation system that affects uniforms and helmets based on weather and field surface, 3D grass, and new player specific animations that showcase the personalities of each NFL player.

Build a Franchise
Over 100 new features and enhancements for franchise fanatics that includes expanded rosters, cut days in preseason, an all-new rookie scouting system, a free-agent bidding system, player roles, hot and cold streaks in-season, and much more.

Be a Superstar
Control the growth of your superstar thanks to an all-new progression system that allows you to earn skill points by participating in practice and games. The on-field experience is also enhanced by brand new position-specific coordinator audio that coaches your growth as an NFL player.

Don't wait, add Madden NFL 12 to your collection.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Hair-itage Shirts

We just stumbled across this new line of shirts by Nike, the Hair-itage. They are freaking hilarious. The shirts feature prints of baseball player's facial hair and their respective hats. Two of my favorites are the Willie Stargell Pirate's shirt, which we just ordered, and the super cool CoCo Crisp shirt. It looks like Nike is making anything from current stars like Tim Lincecum and Albert Pujols to the classics like Rollie Fingers, Reggie Jackson, and Eddie Murray. You can find the shirts at FansEdge.com, Amazon.com, or MLB.com.

Thursday, July 7, 2011

NCAA Football 12 by EA Sports

The countdown is on and its t-minus 4 days. EA Sports NCAA Football 12 is due out next week. I'm always pumped when the newest game from the college football franchise is released because that means another season is just around the corner. Maybe the pro guys will bicker all season and the college boys can have all the spotlights. Not sure if there is enough enhancements for me to schuck out the bucks for the new edition but the game looks great. Plus they have an awesome commercial, which you can see below. If you cant wait to play this bad boy all night, you can get NCAA Football 12 here.



Amazon.com Product Description

NCAA Football 12 takes the journey of the college athlete to the next level of depth and authenticity. Experience the pride and pageantry of gameday Saturday with all new enhanced in-game presentation, traditions and school specific crowd celebrations. Make an impact on the field as your team takes down your heated rival on the road to the National Championship.

Pick your path to collegiate gridiron glory. NCAA Football 12 lets you experience the rise to dominance of a young, up-and-coming gridiron star hoping to make his way to a college superpower of choice and eventually a national championship. Experience the pride and pageantry of gameday Saturday like never before as you go from high school superstar to top college player to head coach in Road to Glory and Dynasty modes. With an enhanced in-game presentation, new traditions, and an all-new collision system, make an impact by leading your team to the National Championship with NCAA Football 12.

Key Game Features

Dynasty Mode - Dynasty Mode in NCAA Football 12 is all about customizing your experience. Through the Coaching Carousel you can start out as a head coach and climb the coaching ladder to your dream job. With Custom Conferences you can alter the landscape of college football by editing conference membership, conference rules, and BCS bowl tie-ins to your liking.

Conference Customization - Create new rivalries and alter the landscape of college football forever by realigning conferences throughout college football. Build new 16-team super conferences, create conference schedules, decide BCS bowl tie-ins, and more.

Authentic Gameday Traditions - Feel the true emotion of college football as your team runs onto the field with new pre-game traditions like the Sooner Schooner and Ramblin' Wreck, and celebrate big plays alongside school icons like Chief Osceola, Uga, and Tommy Trojan.

Enhanced Tackling Engine - Your college gameday experience rises to a whole new level with an all-new momentum-based collision and tackling system that allows you to control a player through the moment of impact.

Road to Glory Mode - Live your journey to a national championship like never before as you explore your high school years like never before, including: games, practices, tracking colleges that you are interested in and your progress in earning a scholarship.

Monday, April 18, 2011

NBA Big Head Commercials

The NBA has continued their string of great commercials this season with their "big head" or "bobblehead", or whatever you want to call them, advertising campaign. Here is the latest one for the playoffs...





Here are some links to the other big head videos...
Here's to a Big Season
Biggest Season Yet
Happy Holidays

Friday, April 15, 2011

NBA Playoffs!

It's playoff time for the NBA. Usually this is when we start following the season but this year has been different. With the influx of young stars, the NBA has suddenly become exciting to watch during the regular season. Not a day goes by what you wont see some thing amazing. Might have stolen that straight from the NBA TV marketing campaign, "Where Amazing Happens", but what the hell. Before we throw out our most likely incorrect playoff picks, how about the season award winners...

MVP: Derek Rose, Bulls Led Bulls to best record in NBA. Seriously, is there any doubt?

Rookie of Year: Blake Griffin, Clippers No brainer here. Made the Clips watchable with his daily highlight reels.

Coach of Year: George Karl, Nuggets Had a superstar that quit on him and still made the playoffs with other team's castoffs.

Most Improved: Kevin Love, Timberwolves Tallied eleven 20-20 games and 63 double-doubles (I think). Just crazy.

Playoff Picks
Who we want in NBA Finals...
Bulls vs Thunder

Who will make it to spite us...
Celtics and Lakers

Most watchable 1st Round match up...
Trailblazers vs Mavericks

1st Round upset pick...
Hawks over Magic

Player that chokes...
Kevin Garnett, Celtics

Enjoy the NBA Playoffs and stay thirty.

Monday, March 14, 2011

March to Madness

The NCAA Tournament bracket has been released and wow, this is going to be madness. There's a lot of intriguing match ups and some really interesting potential games based on the seedings. There is a lot of parity right now in college basketball and it's a wide open race to Houston. Saddle up and let the fun begin.

Let's start our babbling with the bubble watch. It's funny how everybody hangs on the bubble teams. Who's going to get in? Who got snubbed? In reality, it doesn't matter. The bubble teams historically don't do much damage in the tournament but no NCAA Tournament is complete with some grumbling.

Which teams got screwed?

St. Mary's - tied with Gonzaga for the WCC title and lost to the Zags in the conference title game. Beat St. John's, Mississippi St, and 1-2 against Gonzaga.

Missouri St. - regular season champs of the Missouri Valley. Swept Wichita St.

Alabama - won the SEC West division. Beat Georgia twice and Kentucky. Side note here. Why does the SEC have divisions in basketball? Seems like a waste if the winner cant get into the Tournament. Time for some change and bundle them all together.

Colorado - finished 8-8 in the Big 12. Notched victories over Texas, Missouri, and Kansas St. three times

Who should be NIT bound?

Georgia - finished 9-7 in the SEC. Lost non conference games against Xavier, Notre Dame, and Temple. Conference losses include Vandy (twice), Tennessee, Alabama (twice), Florida (twice), and Kentucky. Only quality wins are Colorado, UAB, and Tennessee.

Alabama Birmingham - Won Conference USA regular season title but lost in 1st round of conference tournament. Lost both games to Memphis and lost to Arizona St. and Georgia. Best no conference win is VCU.

Virgina Commonwealth - finished 12-6 and in 4th place in the CAA. Lost to Tennessee, Richmond, South Florida, and UAB in non conference action

USC - tied for 4th place in the PAC 10. Gained wins over Tennessee and Texas. Split their match ups with UCLA, Arizona, and Washington. Bad loses to Bradley, Rider, Oregon St., Nebraska, and TCU.

Which teams will exit early and why?

Georgetown - Hoyas haven't won a game since G Chris Wright broke his hand. He's back for the tournament but probably not game ready.

BYU - The Cougars will learn you can't survive on one player's shoulders, even if it is Jimmer.

Louisville - The Cardinals lack of a bog man or any inside game will end their run.

Kansas - The Jayhawks lack a consistent point guard and turn the ball over like a junior high team.

Who is this year's Cinderella?
Richmond
Utah St.
Oakland
Morehead St.

National Champion
Ohio St. Buckeyes

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

MLB 11: The Show

Get MLB 11 The Show here.

Amazon.com Product Description

MLB 11: The Show is a multiplayer baseball game that delivers a true Major League Baseball experience for gamers on the PlayStation 3 platform. MLB 11: The Show features a new analog stick default controls for pitching, batting and fielding that instead of just relying on buttons requires timing and rhythm. This focuses the attention of the player, just as if you were on the field. It also features PlayStation Move support in its Home Run Derby functionality. Additional features include: 4-player co-op support both online and offline, additional online modes, improved Road to the Show functionality, stereoscopic 3D game support* and more.

The Best in Baseball is Back
The #1 selling, highest rated baseball franchise is back in MLB 11 The Show. Experience new ways to play The Show with the new Pure Analog controls. Team up in all-new co-op play, get called up to the Big Leagues with new and improved Road to the Show features and compete for real world prizes in MLB The Show's all-new Challenge of the Week.

Pure Analog Control
Unlike the face button controls for hitting and pitching found in earlierMLB The Show games, MLB 11 The Show utilizes default analog stick controls. When at the plate on offense batters hold the right stick down and push it up to swing. The intent is for the batter to physically connect with the pitcher's rhythm - possibly even stretching your out at the plate by altering your swing on the fly as you angle the stick to the right or left in attempt to make contact with breaking pitches. When pitching the analog stick is used to aim the type of pitch you have chosen as your delivery gauge reaches the optimal point. The analog stick is also used in fielding as players point to the base they want to throw to. For players who prefer the face button control method, the analog stick control configuration can be disabled at any time.

PlayStation Move Support
MLB 11 The Show features optional PlayStation Move support within its Home Run Derby functionality. Peripherals required for this support are the PlayStation Eye camera and the PlayStation Move motion controller. When activated the Move motion controller projects a transparent bat on the screen, allowing the player to measure the oncoming balls, knock dirt from their spikes or literally point to the spot in the bleachers that they are aiming for.

Key Game Features
All-new Analog Pure Hitting and Pitching – Use the DualShock 3 analog sticks as a new way to experience MLB The Show
All-New Co-op play – MLB 11 The Show features a 1-4 player co-op mode, with 2-on-2 online multiplayer
New and Improved Road to the Show Functionality – Increase your skills with instant player performance evaluations and get called up to The Big Leagues
Challenge of the Week Online Mode – The weekly baseball fix for hardcore fans eager for a chance at big-time prizes
PlayStation Move Support – The new Home Run Derby built into MLB 11 The Show features optional PlayStation Move support (Move Motion Controller and PlayStation Eye camera peripheral sold separately)
3D Compatibility - MLB 11 The Show is a Stereoscopic 3D compatible game*
An Authentic MLB Experience - Enjoy an authentic MLB experience not found in any other baseball video game

Monday, February 21, 2011

Mid-Major Madness Part 4

Here's the final edition of Mid-Major Madness. You should be recovered from the Bracketbusters now. Hopefully you got to see some quality action and teams that a lot of casual basketball fans missed. The conference tournaments start next week for some of the teams and it's your last chance to find that upset gem and cash in during the Big Dance. Here's some games that we won't miss this week and why...

Tues.
Indiana St. (15-13) at Northern Iowa (19-10)
Both teams are 10-6 in the Missouri Valley and the winner is looking at the 3 seed for Arch Madness. The Sycamores won the first meeting by 25 points so the Panthers are looking for revenge in their final home game. It's also your last chance to see the famous "Interlude Dance" at half time.

Wed.
Colorado St. (18-8) at BYU (25-2)

The Rams are firmly on the Bubble Watch and a road win over the Jimmers would be huge. BYU walked out of Fort Collins with a 9 point win in January.

Thur.
Milwaukee (16-12) at Cleveland St. (23-6)
Cleveland St. leads the Horizon League standings at 12-4 and there are three other teams within a game, including the Panthers. The top two teams in the league get byes into the conference tournament semifinals.

Morehead St. (21-8) at Murray St. (21-7)
The Ohio Valley leader board has cleared up slightly and the Eagles and Racers find themselves at the top with 12-4 records. The Eagles feature the nation's leading rebounder and most likely the OVC Player of the Year in Kenneth Faried. The dude is a monster.

Western Illinois (7-20) at Centenary (0-28)
This Summit League showdown is a must watch game for a different reason. The Centenary Gentleman are looking for their first win of the season and this is their best chance of getting it and avoiding futility. The Leathernecks are 2-14 in the conference and did notch a victory over Centenary in December 57-51.

Gonzaga (19-9) at St. Mary's (22-6)
Neither team is a stranger to the Big Dance the last few years but both are on the bubble this season and a loss could burst it. The top team teams are awarded byes into the conference tournament semifinals and both teams would like the automatic pass to breathe easier. St. Mary's leads the Zags by a game for the regular season crown.

Sat.
BYU (25-2) at San Diego St (27-1)
#7 vs. #4. The Aztecs are looking to avenge their only loss of the season, somehow stop Jimmer, and prove the Cougars are a one-man team.

Wichita St (22-6) at Missouri St. (21-7)
The winner takes the Missouri Valley title. Both teams are 13-3 in conference action and are looking to rebound from key Bracketbuster loses. An at large bid to the Dance is a slim hope and both teams could use another quality win. The Bears beat the Shockers 59-56 earlier this season.

Charleston (22-7) at Western Carolina (16-13)
The SoCon South Division leading Cougars don't have a lot to gain in the regular season finale but Western Carolina is tied for the North Division lead. A win and a division title will help the Catamounts' seeding for the SoCon tournament.

Enjoy the week of games and get ready for the mass chaos of conference tournaments next week. And by the way, theSportStew will be invading Vegas for the first week of the action.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Mid-Major Madness, Part 3

We’re in the middle of February and you know what that means? Bracketbusters! Yay! It seems like we forget that ESPN’s Bracketbusters was created for money reasons but it has become a great TV event to get some good small conference teams some exposure. Let’s not forget there are still some pivotal battles early in the week that may set the table for a conference tournament run though. Here are some key conference games to keep an eye on and the top Bracketbuster matchups as a bonus…

Tues.
George Mason at VCU
Two of the top teams in the Colonial Athletic Association square off. George Mason has racked up 11 wins in a row. Both teams have key Bracketbuster games later in the week.

Wed.
Kent St. at Miami, OH
The leaders of the East Division of the MAC do battle. Kent St was won 6 in a row while the Redhawks have a 4 game win streak. The Golden Flashes hammered Miami in their first matchup 78-57.

UAB at Memphis
UTEP at Southern Miss.
Conference USA is a mess at the top of the standings. These 4 teams are soundly on bubble alert and could use a win to gain some separation and momentum.

Valparaiso at Milwaukee
The Horizon League is another conference with a scramble going on with 4 teams within a game of the lead. Valpo is looking for the season sweep over the Panthers

Thurs.
Richmond at Temple
Here’s a key Atlantic 10 fight. Temple is probably done enough to make the Big Dance and is riding a 6 game win streak. Richmond’s resume has a few holes that another quality win could help plug.

East Tennessee St at Belmont
The top two teams in the Atlantic Sun face off. Belmont leads the conference with a 15-1 record while the Buccaneers are 14-3. The Bruins won the first matchup of the season by 10.

Bracketbusters
Fri.

VCU at Wichita St.
Sat.
Utah St. at St. Mary's
Vermont at Charleston
Missouri St at Valparaiso
George Mason at Northern Iowa
Montana at Long Beach St.
Sun.
Cleveland St. at Old Dominion

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Mid-Major Madness, Part 2

Here is the second part of Mid-Major Madness. We're taking February to look at some of the teams that may be able to make some noise next month in the Big Dance. If you had the chance to check out some of last week's featured games, you saw some doozies and it's only getting better as the teams battle to improve their seedings for their respective conference tournaments. Here's what to watch this week...

Wednesday
American U (16-7) at Bucknell (16-8)
While neither of these teams will be given much chance in March Madness, this game features the top two teams in the Patriot League. Bucknell walked away with upset wins in the first round of the 2005 and 2006 NCAA Basketball Tournament and are currently on a hot streak winning 14 of their last 16 games. The Bison are led by sophomore big man Mike Muscala, who in among the league leaders in scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots. American U couldn't stop Muscala in their first meeting this season, as he slammed them with 33 points, 10 boards, and 5 blocks. Vlad Moldoveanu is the leading scorer for the Eagles at 20 ppg but was held to a season low 7 points against Bucknell earlier this season.

Thursday
Florida Atlantic (18-7) at Denver (11-12)
This match up will showcase the Sun Belt's East Division leaders, the Owls, and the West Division leading Pioneers. The Pioneers are hoping to drastically improve from their last outing when they shot a measely 25% from the field and only managed 35 points. The Owls are 10-1 in SunBelt play and have a 3 games lead in the East Division.

Saturday
Northern Colorado (13-9) at Montana (16-7)
You will get to see the top two teams in the Big Sky Conference in this game. The Montana Grizzlies were the pre-season favorite and went 2-0 against the Pac-10 in their non conference schedule. Northern Colorado has a one game lead and pounded the Grizzlies in early January by 18 points. The Bears are led by guard Devon Beitzel (19.2 ppg).

Wichita St. (20-4) at Northern Iowa (18-7)
Last week was bad for the Panthers as they lost their leading rebounder, Mr. Hustle, Lucas O'Rear. The Panthers beat the Shockers 77-74 last month and need some outstanding play from Valley Player of the Year candidate Kwadzo Ahelegbe to keep their razor thin at large hopes alive. The Shockers lead the Missouri Valley with a record of 11-2 and are riding a 5 game winning streak. The Panthers sit in third place, two games back.

Don't miss these either...
Mon, Feb 7
Austin Peay @ Tennessee Tech
Tues, Feb 8

UNI @ Evansville
Thur, Feb 10
Wright St. @ Butler
Tennessee Tech @ Murray St.
Fri, Feb 11
Jacksonville @ East Tennessee St.
Sat, Feb 12
Oakland @ IPFW
Old Dominion @ VCU
Texas Southern @ Jackson St.
James Madison @ George Mason
Southern Miss @ Memphis
Wright St @ Valparaiso
St. Mary's @ San Francisco

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Super Bowl Gambling Gameplan

It’s Super Bowl Sunday. You’re a few hours from game time. Your team isn’t playing so you really don’t care who wins. How do you keep interest in the times between the new commercials, which you know a couple will be instant classics? I’m in this boat. Being a Bears fan, I despise the Packers and my dislike of Roethlisberger sours me on the Steelers. So what should I do? Well, the answer is gambling. The Super Bowl has a plethora of prop bets to keep you interested in the game. You can wager on the number of punts, who scores a touchdown, or the longest field goal to name a few. After committing way too much time to the cause, I have come up with a game plan. I narrowed the props down to ten that are spread out over the game. My plan is to take these ten bets and, win or lose, have some fun. Here are the prop bets I like and their odds…

Coin toss = Heads -101
1st score of the game = Any other score (no TD) +140
1st turnover of the game = Interception -140
Will game be tied after 0-0 = Yes +110
Will either team score 3 times in row = No +150
Shortest TD of game = Over 1.5 +105
Last score of the game = Any other score (no TD) +160
Number of different players to attempt a pass = Over 2.5 +180
Team with most penalty yards = Steelers -155
Will team that scores 1st win = No +140

Friday, February 4, 2011

UFC 126 Silva vs. Belfort

It’s almost Super Bowl Sunday and the Ultimate Fighting Championship is doing their part to help make this one hell of a weekend. On what is already one of the biggest weekends in Las Vegas, UFC 126 will take place at Mandalay Bay the day before the Super Bowl. Dana White is presenting a stacked card and probably one of the best since UFC 100. The headliner is the much anticipated fight between Vitor Belfort and Anderson Silva. Belfort has battled injuries that resulted in this bout getting pushed back. “The Spider’s” last few fights have been lackluster and he needs a good performance to silence his critics. Silva is one of the best pound for pound mma artists around but if he lets down his guard, Belfort’s power will add another knockout to his resume. Two fan favorites meet in the co-main event as Rich Franklin and Forrest Griffin collide. The recently merged WEC will get to display a couple of their most popular fighters with “Cowboy” Cerrone, Miguel Torres, and the drastically improving Chad Mendes all making their UFC debuts. Whoa, almost forget about the scrapper that I’m most looking forward to: Ryan Bader versus Jon “Bones” Jones. Both of these fighters have looked awesome in their recent bouts and have very bright futures. Bader is a power house with great wrestling and “Bones” is so unorthodox you never know what is coming. This should be a barn burner. I can’t wait. Here’s who I see leaving victorious and enjoy the fights everyone.

Belfort def. Silva by TKO
Franklin def. Griffin by TKO
Jones def. Bader by submission
Ellenberger def. Rocha by unanimous decision
Torres def. Banuelos by choke
Mendes def. Omigawa by unanimous decision
Yamamoto def. Johnson by TKO
Cerrone def. Kelly by choke
Pierce def. Robertson by KO
Taylor def. Ruediger by choke
Kingsbury def. Romero by unanimous decision

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Mid-Major Madness, Part 1

Well it's finally February and that means that Madness in getting closer, especially for the smaller conferences. The Big South Conference and the Horizon League tip off their conference tournaments on March 1st to start almost two weeks of "Championship Week." With ESPN announcing the Bracket Buster match ups, it's a great time to start Mid-Major Madness. It's a four part series that points out some games that you will want to check out to see some mid-major teams before they surprise you in the Big Dance. Everyone knows the Big East is loaded, hell the experts say the whole conference should be in the NCAA Tournament. We've all watched Ohio St, Texas, and Kansas pummel folks. Now is when you find that George Mason, Northern Iowa, or Davidson team that is going to be this year's Cinderella. Here's 5 games worth checking out and why...

Today
Wichita St (9-2) @ Indiana St (7-4)
This is a rematch of a 3 ot thriller 10 days ago. The Shockers, the pre-season pick the win the Valley, won and started Indiana St.'s current 3 game skid. Wichita St is a strong candidate for an at large bid in March with their only non conference losses to UConn and San Diego St. The over achieving Sycamores have already beat co-leader Missouri St and Northern Iowa.

Wednesday
Hofstra (8-3) @ George Mason (9-2)
The Colonial Athletic Association has 4 teams within 2 games of the conference lead. Hofstra is lead by Charles Jenkins who averages 23.3 ppg and he lit up George Mason for 32 in their last meeting, a 13 point win for the Pride. George Mason is riding a 7 game win streak in which the Patriots have by an average of 18 points.

Thursday
Liberty (10-1) @ Coastal Carolina (11-0)
The top 2 teams in the Big South by a wide margin. Coastal Carolina won the first battle 70-67. The Chanticleers are one of the top shooting (49%) and scoring (79.4 ppg) teams in basketball. The Chanticleers have an 18 game winning streak and haven't lost since Georgetown defeated them way back on November 18th. John Brown stars at guard for the Flames averaging a double-double, and that's rebounds not assists.

Saturday
Oakland (11-0) @ IUPUI (7-3)
Oakland could make some noise if they can avoid an upset in the Summit League tournament. The Golden Grizzlies are ranked in the top 10 in the NCAA in scoring (84 ppg) and shooting (49%) with one of the toughest schedules. They took on Purdue, Ohio St, Illinois, Michigan St, West Virginia, and Tennessee in non conference action so the Grizzles should be battle tested. The Jaguars have the leading scorer in the conference, forward Alex Smith and it fun to say IUPUI, pronounced oo-wee-poo-wee (at least by me).

Murray St (7-3) @ Austin Peay (8-3)
The Ohio Valley Conference race is a mess right now. Five teams are within a game of the lead and another is 2 back. Murray St was our pick to take the OVC crown after their run in last year's NCAA Tournament. Austin Peay boasts the league's leading scorer in TyShwan Edmonson at almost 19 ppg.

Other games....
Wed, Feb 2
San Diego St @ Colorado St
Thur, Feb 3
Wofford @ Charleston
Valparaiso @ Cleveland St
Belmont @ Jacksonville
Murray St @ Tennessee St
Fri, Feb 4
Iona @ Fairfield
Sat, Feb 5
Old Dominion @ George Mason
VCU @ James Madison
Buffalo @ Ball St

Sunday, January 30, 2011

NFL Awards

The NFL season is down to the grand finale, the enchilada grande, the whole ball of yarn, or as some call it, the Super Bowl. We’ll spend the off week looking back at the season, not wasting time with an exhibition game that most of the players don’t even want to go to. Hooray Pro-Bowl. It was a great season in the NFL in 2010. Some surprising teams, spectacular plays, and tremendous performances made each week seem like you couldn’t miss it. And who can forget the scandals. The season was like a soap opera but was actually cool to watch the storyline unfold. The SportStew enjoyed the season and we wanted to announce our award recipients for the season. Here’s who we like...

MVP: Tom Brady
Why? Brady tossed 36 touchdown passes, only 4 interceptions, and led the NFL with a QB Rating of 111. He’s married to a super model, Gisele, who’s PFH. That’s TLA for “pretty hot.” Plus, Brady is growing his hair out for his starring role in the reboot of Hanson’s MMMBop.

Best Offensive Player: Arian Foster
Why? Foster scored 18 touchdowns (16 rushing and 2 receiving) and led the NFL with 1616 yards rushing. He was mostly ignored in the preseason fantasy football drafts but was the biggest fantasy football pickup after his Week 1 performance.

Best Defensive Player: Clay Matthews
Why? Matthews tallied 13.5 sacks, 5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, and an interception, which he returned for a score, on the season. Matthews got the nod over guys like Harrison and Mayo, because he is the best candidate to team up with the Rams’ James Laurinaitis to form the New Age Road Warriors and win the WWE title. And his hair even has a twitter account.

Dynamic Offensive Rookie: Sam Bradford
Why? Bradford kept the Rams in the playoff hunt until the final week while throwing for over 3500 yards and 18 touchdowns. Really there wasn't anybody else.

Dynamic Defensive Rookie: Ndamukong Suh
Why? Suh attempted an extra point for the Lions, due to an injury, but missed. Actually Suh led all rookies with 10 sacks. He also amassed 66 tackles, an interception, and found the end zone on a fumble return. Ndamukong means “House of Spears.”

Coach of the Year: Raheem Morris
Why? The Buccaneers almost snuck into the playoffs from a division that had three 10 win teams. Morris had 10 rookies that started a game this season. "Stats are for losers, so you keep looking at stats and we'll keep looking at wins."

Only one more week until the eight hour pregame show is on. Enjoy the game.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

NFL Championship Game Picks

We have 4 teams left in this game of musical chairs. Who's going to punch their tickets for Super Bowl XLV in Dallas? Well, let me tell you.

Lets start in the AFC where the Rex Ryan's visit Pittsburgh. As entertaining as Ryan is, he sure can be a jackass. The Jets have really stepped up the past two weeks and knocked out two of the top quarterbacks in the game with their upset wins over the Colts and Patriots. Can the defense continue? Can you underdog pull off three in a row? I'm not sure if the Jets can get up for this one. After two weeks of "We hate these guys" and tons of trash talk, the Jets are actually showing the Steelers respect. Speaking of the Steelers, Big Ben's face has packed on a ton of weight. Reminds me of how Barry Bonds' head grew to enormous proportions. Not that I'm implying anything. The Steelers' defense is loaded also and leads the league in fines. That's definitely gonna help. The defenses will cancel each other out in this matchup and the Steelers have a better and more balanced offense. Look for the Steel Curtain to force some turnovers by Sanchez and the Steelers should be able to control the clock with their running game. Pittsburgh is favored by 3.5 point, take them to cover.

That brings us to the NFC. A legendary battle between the Packers and the Bears. This is another matchup of some great defenses and talented quarterbacks, Aaron Rodgers and Jay Cutler. Ha ha, I just called Cutler a talented quarterback. Cutler is also an inconsistent, whiny crybaby. When comparing these teams, the defenses stand out on both. Clay Matthews is awesome and someone I would love to drink beers with. The guy doesn't quit. The Bears will need Forte and the rushing game to help control the clock and help take the pressure off of Cutler. The Bears get the nod on special teams too. In the end, Cutler folds like a lawn chair and makes the game deciding mistake. It kills me, but the Pack wins by 10, covers, and makes reservations in Dallas.

Enjoy the games, the beers, and the tailgate food!

Saturday, January 1, 2011

UFC 125 Picks

The Ultimate Fighting Championship is getting ready for their big New Year’s Day event, are you? UFC 125: Resolution is set for this weekend at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Vegas. The fight card has a lot of fan favorites and some great matchmaking. Seems like something is missing with no HW bouts but with exciting fighters like Chris Leben, Clay Guida, and Nate Diaz complementing the title fight, I’m pumped. Even the under card is loaded with Josh Grispi and Mike Thomas Brown making the move from the WEC and Stephens-Davis should be a slug fest. What’s with the UFC choosing Resolution for this event though? Resolution seems like the ending of a trilogy or a controversial ending. Whatever? The UFC creative department has always failed when coming up with event names anyway. While the card is stacked, the main event for the Lightweight Title is a fight I could miss and it wouldn’t pain me. Here's my predictions of UFC 125 and enjoy the fights...

UFC Lightweight Championship.
Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard. Maynard has handed Edgar his only loss. Edgar is making his 2nd title defense and has been the underdog in both, as well as when he won the title. Look for Maynard to his his superior wrestling to take down Edgar and control the fight. We'll hear many boos form the crowd and Maynard will win a boring decision.

Chris Leben vs. Brian Stann. Both fighters like to throw lumber and this will be fun to watch. Leben is more the more rounded fighter and uses one of my favorite moves, the foot stomp. That has got to hurt. Look for a late TKO for Leben after Stann tuckers out.

Thiago Silva def. Brandon Vera by TKO
Clay Guida def. Takanori Gomi by decision
Nate Diaz def. Dong Hyun Kim by controversial decision
Josh Grispi def. Dustin Poirier by submission (RNC)
Jacob Volkmann def. Antonio McKee by submission (armbar)
Jeremy Stephens def. Marcus Davis by decision
Mike Thomas Brown def. Diego Nunes by TKO
Daniel Roberts def. Greg Soto by decision
Brad Tavares def. Phil Baroni by submission (RNC)