For my book review, I chose Blogging for Dummies by Susannah Gardner and Shane Birley. I chose this book because there are tons and tons of blogs out there, and I wanted to get back into writing. Blogging allows everyone that has a voice the opportunity to say what they want. This book has something for everyone, whether the Internet is a big scary monster, or you’re an experience surfer.
There are six parts to the book, and part one starts out by wading into the shallow end of the pool. The first three chapters introduce readers to the world of blogging: what blogging is, why people do it, and how to make one yourself. It has easy, step-by-step instructions in how to start a blog, maintain it, and gives helpful hints on how to make your blog stand out. What this book also does is remind everyone that what you put out there, everyone can read. A lot of people tend to forget that what they post on their blog can come back to bite them. All you have to do is look at famous athletes, like NBA-star Gilbert Arenas and former baseball pitcher Curt Schilling, to see how blogging can get you unwanted attention.
Part two takes you more in depth into creating your blog. These are much more advanced ideas in creating a blog, such as fiddling with HTML to customize your blog, adding a YouTube video, even how to get your own domain name. There is also a section on the different blogging software that’s out there. I really liked the fact that the book didn’t just cater to Google and Blogger. The book also talks about programs like Movable Type and ExpressionEngine. This is the next step in creating a great blog.
The next section, part three, is about focusing your blog, hitting your target audience, and making sure the people that read your blog aren’t overwhelmed by spammers. Spam is a major obstacle in creating a blog. Ads for things you don’t want on your blog can ruin your day, and can be a pain to your audience. Chapter 10 goes into depth about how to deal with not only spam, but rude and surly posters as well.
Parts four, five, and six are all about taking your blog to the next level and making it really stand out. Part four dives into big-time bells and whistles, such as how to use Flickr photos, and how to create a podcast. This section really caught my interest as a former radio DJ. While I haven’t posted a podcast, it has been very interesting to experiment with the suggested software (Jahshaka) and trying to create something similar to my old radio show. Part five is about marketing your blog, and part six is called “The Part of Tens”, where the authors give a top ten list of things to check out, such as ways to increase community action, cool tools, and even blogs to follow.
Overall, this book falls in line with the other Dummy books. It is clear, concise, and explains all the jargon that goes along with blogs and blogging. I like how the book doesn’t dive head first into the nuts and bolts of blogging, which can overwhelm true beginners. The intended targets of this book are beginners and people who want to expand their knowledge of blogging. The authors did not keep people who are already Internet experts in mind when they wrote this book. It goes through things slowly, and in plain terms. That said everyone can improve their blogging by reading this book.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Week 6 Picks
Time for Week 6 picks. I didn’t do so hot last week, 7-7. So close to winning a lot of them: Texans, Panthers, Jets, plus letdowns by the Steelers and Cowboys. Oh well, that’s the way it goes. Still having a great season, 47-29. And like last week, lots of tough games to call, so let’s get to it!
As always, Home team in CAPS!!!
BENGALS (-4.5) over Texans
The Bengals are one of the surprise teams this year. Every game they’ve played has been close, so I’m weary of taking them of the points, but the Texans don’t play consistently well. This game could go either way, but I’ll go with the Bengals and give the points.
PACKERS (-13.5) over Lions
Packers are coming off a bye, are playing at home, and get the Lions. This SHOULD be an easy victory for them, and an easy cover. But the Lions are feisty this year, so it wouldn’t surprise me if they keep it close.
VIKINGS (-2.5) over Ravens
Great game here. This one will be a fun one to watch. Vikings are really good, and so are the Ravens. I think the Vikings hold their home turf, and beat the Ravens by 3 or 4.
SAINTS (-2.5) over Giants
Another great game on the schedule for this week, and another tough game to pick. A lot of people like the Giants to win this game, but I’m not totally convinced they can stop the Saints offense, so I’ll give the points.
Panthers (-3.5) over BUCS
Two really bad teams, one I think is worse than the other. The Panthers at least have some talent of their team, where as the Bucs do not. I’ll take Carolina and give the points.
Chiefs (+6.5) over REDSKINS
The Chiefs have shown some life these past two weeks. The Redskins have just 2 wins, and those are over the Rams (by 2) and the Bucs (by 3). But, on the other hand, the Skins are 2-0 at home, and this game is at Washington. So while that gives me some pause, I’ll still take the points and go with the Chiefs.
JAGUARS (-9.5) over Rams
The Jags got shutout on the road in Seattle, but now they get the hapless Rams at home. The Rams are HORRIBLE, so I’ll give the points and take the Jags at home.
STEELERS (-14.5) over Browns
The Steelers disappointed me last week by not crushing the Lions. That game makes me look twice at this game. It should be an easy pick, but the Steelers seem to lack a killer instinct. I don’t know, maybe they blow out the Browns by 40 in this game, who knows which Pittsburgh team shows up, but I’ll go with them and give the points.
SEAHAWKS (-2.5) over Cardinals
I went against popular belief last week when I took the ‘Hawks over the Jags, and that paid off. This week, I’ll do it again, this time against the Cardinals. I think everyone is overvaluing the Cards, and undervaluing the Seahawks with Matt Hasselbeck. Seattle is a different team at home, and I’ll take them again this week.
Eagles (-14.5) over RAIDERS
Easy pick of the week. Good Eagles, bad Raiders. Go with the Eagles.
JETS (-9.5) over Bills
The Jets are coming off a tough loss, and the Bills looked terrible at home against a crappy Browns team. I’ll go with the Jets to bounce back and beat up the Bills.
Titans (+9.5) over PATRIOTS
I know the Titans are winless and got crushed by the Colts, but the Pats don’t look the same this year. I thought that New England was starting to get back on track, but they certainly didn’t look like it last week at Denver. I’ll believe in the Titans for one more week. This is a pride game for them, I don’t know if they win, but I think Tennessee keeps it close.
FALCONS (-3.5) over Bears
I was really impressed with how the Falcons beat up the 49ers, and I still don’t believe in the Bears. This is the best team Chicago will have played, and if they win this one, I’ll start to believe in them. But I think the Falcons are a better team.
Broncos (+4.5) over CHARGERS
San Diego should be the cream of the crop in the AFC West, but seem to lack that special something that great teams all have. The Broncos are playing much better defense than they have in the past few seasons, and Kyle Orton is actually playing well. I’ll take the Broncos and the points.
As always, Home team in CAPS!!!
BENGALS (-4.5) over Texans
The Bengals are one of the surprise teams this year. Every game they’ve played has been close, so I’m weary of taking them of the points, but the Texans don’t play consistently well. This game could go either way, but I’ll go with the Bengals and give the points.
PACKERS (-13.5) over Lions
Packers are coming off a bye, are playing at home, and get the Lions. This SHOULD be an easy victory for them, and an easy cover. But the Lions are feisty this year, so it wouldn’t surprise me if they keep it close.
VIKINGS (-2.5) over Ravens
Great game here. This one will be a fun one to watch. Vikings are really good, and so are the Ravens. I think the Vikings hold their home turf, and beat the Ravens by 3 or 4.
SAINTS (-2.5) over Giants
Another great game on the schedule for this week, and another tough game to pick. A lot of people like the Giants to win this game, but I’m not totally convinced they can stop the Saints offense, so I’ll give the points.
Panthers (-3.5) over BUCS
Two really bad teams, one I think is worse than the other. The Panthers at least have some talent of their team, where as the Bucs do not. I’ll take Carolina and give the points.
Chiefs (+6.5) over REDSKINS
The Chiefs have shown some life these past two weeks. The Redskins have just 2 wins, and those are over the Rams (by 2) and the Bucs (by 3). But, on the other hand, the Skins are 2-0 at home, and this game is at Washington. So while that gives me some pause, I’ll still take the points and go with the Chiefs.
JAGUARS (-9.5) over Rams
The Jags got shutout on the road in Seattle, but now they get the hapless Rams at home. The Rams are HORRIBLE, so I’ll give the points and take the Jags at home.
STEELERS (-14.5) over Browns
The Steelers disappointed me last week by not crushing the Lions. That game makes me look twice at this game. It should be an easy pick, but the Steelers seem to lack a killer instinct. I don’t know, maybe they blow out the Browns by 40 in this game, who knows which Pittsburgh team shows up, but I’ll go with them and give the points.
SEAHAWKS (-2.5) over Cardinals
I went against popular belief last week when I took the ‘Hawks over the Jags, and that paid off. This week, I’ll do it again, this time against the Cardinals. I think everyone is overvaluing the Cards, and undervaluing the Seahawks with Matt Hasselbeck. Seattle is a different team at home, and I’ll take them again this week.
Eagles (-14.5) over RAIDERS
Easy pick of the week. Good Eagles, bad Raiders. Go with the Eagles.
JETS (-9.5) over Bills
The Jets are coming off a tough loss, and the Bills looked terrible at home against a crappy Browns team. I’ll go with the Jets to bounce back and beat up the Bills.
Titans (+9.5) over PATRIOTS
I know the Titans are winless and got crushed by the Colts, but the Pats don’t look the same this year. I thought that New England was starting to get back on track, but they certainly didn’t look like it last week at Denver. I’ll believe in the Titans for one more week. This is a pride game for them, I don’t know if they win, but I think Tennessee keeps it close.
FALCONS (-3.5) over Bears
I was really impressed with how the Falcons beat up the 49ers, and I still don’t believe in the Bears. This is the best team Chicago will have played, and if they win this one, I’ll start to believe in them. But I think the Falcons are a better team.
Broncos (+4.5) over CHARGERS
San Diego should be the cream of the crop in the AFC West, but seem to lack that special something that great teams all have. The Broncos are playing much better defense than they have in the past few seasons, and Kyle Orton is actually playing well. I’ll take the Broncos and the points.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Week 5 Picks
It’s time for the Week 5 picks! Did ok last week, 9-5. So far this season, I’m 40-22 against the spread. Pretty good if I do say so myself! As of right now, I’m ranked 583 of 18,407 entries on the B.S. Report group on ESPN.com. So hopefully I can continue my winning ways!
As always, HOME teams in CAPS.
BILLS (-6.5) over Browns
I know that the Browns took the Bengals to overtime, and the last second at that. I don’t believe in the Browns. They suck. The Bills aren’t great, but I think they can cover this one easy.
Steelers (-10.5) over LIONS
Steelers played really well last week against the Chargers, and now they get the hapless Lions at home? I’ll give the points in a heartbeat.
Cowboys (-8.5) over CHIEFS
I know that the Cowboys are a rollercoaster of a team this year, but the Chiefs are one of those teams I’ll always go against until they start showing the capacity to play with good teams. Sure they played well last week, but that doesn’t mean anything until they do it on a regular basis.
Vikings (-10.5) over RAMS
The Vikings are really good, the Rams are really bad. Give the points.
GIANTS (-16.5) over Raiders
I believe I said that it would take 14 to 15 points for me to consider taking the Bucs and the points against the Giants. Well, here it is; Raiders getting nearly 17. Wow. I had to think about this for a really long time. Like 2 seconds. Giants and the points.
EAGLES (-13.5) over Bucs
And here we go again; really good team getting a lot of points at home against a really bad team. Don’t be fooled by the Bucs performance last week against the Redskins. The Bucs are bad, and the Eagles are good.
PANTHERS (-3.5) over Redskins
This is one of the two toughest games on the schedule this week. The Panthers should be better, and the Redskins have been severely underperforming. Home teams usually get 3 points for home field advantage, so Vegas is giving the Panthers a half-point plus the home field. Flip a coin on this one, so I’m going with the home team, and that is the winless Panthers. Ugh.
Bengals (+8.5) RAVENS
The Ravens are really good, but the Bengals have shown so far this year they keep every game close, so I’m going with that theory in this one.
Falcons (+2.5) over 49ERS
The 49ers are a 3-1 team that has beaten inter-division teams. Their one loss? A heartbreaker against the Viks on the road. I think the Falcons are really good, and I think have weapons, namely Tony Gonzales, that the Niners will have trouble with. I’m not convinced the 49er can play with the best in the league quite yet, but they’re getting there.
SEAHAWKS (-0.5) over Jaguars
This one is the other toughest game to pick. The Jags were impressive last week, so they’re the fashionable pick here. The Seahawks however have one of the best home-field advantages in the NFL, which to me is important for them. This is essentially a pick ‘em game. Again, this is a coin flip, and in those situations, I tend to go with the home team. And I’ll do that here.
Texans (+5.5) over CARDINALS
Two excellent offences, two very mediocre defenses. This smells like a shootout to me, something like 34-31. I think the Cardinals win, but the Texans cover.
Patriots (-3.5) over BRONCOS
The Pats I think are starting to get they’re swagger back. It’s been a slow build up, but I see they’re starting to get in sync, and that doesn’t bode well for the Broncos.
Colts (-3.5) over TITANS
The Colts look like one of the best teams in the league this year, which is no surprise. The Titans are winless after winning their division last year, which is a big surprise. I think that the Colts win this one, they’ll cover, but it won’t be pretty.
Jets (-1.5) over DOLPHINS
Miami is coming off a great game against the Bills, and Jets are coming off a loss at New Orleans. I think that the Jets are going to bounce back and contain the Wildcat. Jets go to Miami and beat the Dolphins.
As always, HOME teams in CAPS.
BILLS (-6.5) over Browns
I know that the Browns took the Bengals to overtime, and the last second at that. I don’t believe in the Browns. They suck. The Bills aren’t great, but I think they can cover this one easy.
Steelers (-10.5) over LIONS
Steelers played really well last week against the Chargers, and now they get the hapless Lions at home? I’ll give the points in a heartbeat.
Cowboys (-8.5) over CHIEFS
I know that the Cowboys are a rollercoaster of a team this year, but the Chiefs are one of those teams I’ll always go against until they start showing the capacity to play with good teams. Sure they played well last week, but that doesn’t mean anything until they do it on a regular basis.
Vikings (-10.5) over RAMS
The Vikings are really good, the Rams are really bad. Give the points.
GIANTS (-16.5) over Raiders
I believe I said that it would take 14 to 15 points for me to consider taking the Bucs and the points against the Giants. Well, here it is; Raiders getting nearly 17. Wow. I had to think about this for a really long time. Like 2 seconds. Giants and the points.
EAGLES (-13.5) over Bucs
And here we go again; really good team getting a lot of points at home against a really bad team. Don’t be fooled by the Bucs performance last week against the Redskins. The Bucs are bad, and the Eagles are good.
PANTHERS (-3.5) over Redskins
This is one of the two toughest games on the schedule this week. The Panthers should be better, and the Redskins have been severely underperforming. Home teams usually get 3 points for home field advantage, so Vegas is giving the Panthers a half-point plus the home field. Flip a coin on this one, so I’m going with the home team, and that is the winless Panthers. Ugh.
Bengals (+8.5) RAVENS
The Ravens are really good, but the Bengals have shown so far this year they keep every game close, so I’m going with that theory in this one.
Falcons (+2.5) over 49ERS
The 49ers are a 3-1 team that has beaten inter-division teams. Their one loss? A heartbreaker against the Viks on the road. I think the Falcons are really good, and I think have weapons, namely Tony Gonzales, that the Niners will have trouble with. I’m not convinced the 49er can play with the best in the league quite yet, but they’re getting there.
SEAHAWKS (-0.5) over Jaguars
This one is the other toughest game to pick. The Jags were impressive last week, so they’re the fashionable pick here. The Seahawks however have one of the best home-field advantages in the NFL, which to me is important for them. This is essentially a pick ‘em game. Again, this is a coin flip, and in those situations, I tend to go with the home team. And I’ll do that here.
Texans (+5.5) over CARDINALS
Two excellent offences, two very mediocre defenses. This smells like a shootout to me, something like 34-31. I think the Cardinals win, but the Texans cover.
Patriots (-3.5) over BRONCOS
The Pats I think are starting to get they’re swagger back. It’s been a slow build up, but I see they’re starting to get in sync, and that doesn’t bode well for the Broncos.
Colts (-3.5) over TITANS
The Colts look like one of the best teams in the league this year, which is no surprise. The Titans are winless after winning their division last year, which is a big surprise. I think that the Colts win this one, they’ll cover, but it won’t be pretty.
Jets (-1.5) over DOLPHINS
Miami is coming off a great game against the Bills, and Jets are coming off a loss at New Orleans. I think that the Jets are going to bounce back and contain the Wildcat. Jets go to Miami and beat the Dolphins.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Crabtree FINALLY Signs
Michael Crabtree, the diva wide receiver out of Texas Tech, has finally agreed to a deal with the San Francisco 49ers. All I have to say is,IT'S ABOUT TIME!!
On one hand, I really, really wanted him to go back into the draft, just to watch him fall and fall in the draft next year. And trust me, he would have. No team would have wanted any part of him in the first round, maybe even the second. After his child-like standoff, I don't think any team would have wanted to deal with him.
But on the other hand, if he turns into the receiver he thinks he is, the 49ers have just gotten under contract an All-Pro type of receiver, and all this holdout nonsense will be but a footnote in history. But if he busts, this will be his legacy. Good luck with that, Crabtree.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4538482
On one hand, I really, really wanted him to go back into the draft, just to watch him fall and fall in the draft next year. And trust me, he would have. No team would have wanted any part of him in the first round, maybe even the second. After his child-like standoff, I don't think any team would have wanted to deal with him.
But on the other hand, if he turns into the receiver he thinks he is, the 49ers have just gotten under contract an All-Pro type of receiver, and all this holdout nonsense will be but a footnote in history. But if he busts, this will be his legacy. Good luck with that, Crabtree.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4538482
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Week 4 Picks
Week 4 of the NFL! I went 11-5 last week, not bad, a one game improvement over the past two weeks. Hopefully, WE CAN BUILD ON THIS!!!
As usual, HOME TEAM in CAPS.
BEARS (-10.5) over Lions
The Lions finally won a game. Congrats. No winning streak coming though. I still don’t like the Bears this year, but I can’t see them NOT covering the spread, at home, against the Lions.
Bengals (-5.5) over BROWNS
The Bengals are one fluke play away from being 3-0. They have beaten two VERY good teams in the Packers and the Steelers. Now they get the crappy Browns? They should win easy, but sometimes teams play up to their opponent, and sometimes they play down to their opponent.
COLTS (-8.5) over Seahawks
The Colts are still the Colts. The Seahawks are banged up, and are going on the road. I see the Colts winning pretty easy in this one.
Giants (-9.5) over CHIEFS
The Giants are a solid football team. They run the ball about as good as anybody, Eli manages the game well, and they have one of the best pass rushes in the league. They don’t let inferior teams keep up with them, which they showed last week against Tampa Bay. Kansas City is, well, terrible. Giants cover.
REDSKINS (-7.5) over Bucs
I’m going against popular opinion here, taking the ‘Skins and the points. They stink. But here’s my reason: I’m going against Tampa EVERY week. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. They’re going 2-14. So, it’s the Redskins and the points by default.
Titans (-2.5) over JAGUARS
The Titans are 0-3 now, after having the best record in the NFL last year. The Jaguars beat the Texans last week when they needed it. I think this week the Jags get Jaguar-ed, because the Titans NEED this win, and I think they get it.
TEXANS (-9.5) over Raiders
This game is rather easy for me to pick. The Texans are good, not great. The Raiders are in the running for the worst team in the league. Texans win, and should cove easily.
Ravens (+2.5) over PATRIOTS
New England played better last week than they had the previous two weeks. But this week, they get one of the best defenses in the NFL. Baltimore’s offense is getting better and better. I think the Ravens beat the Pats, in New England.
SAINTS (-6.5) over Jets
This is one of four really tough games to pick this week. I LOVE the Saints and their offense. The Jets defense has showed a lot so far this year. But I think the blitz-happy Jets get burned by the quick-striking offense of the Saints, and cover the spread.
DOLPHINS (+1.5) over Bills
I understand that Chad Pennington is out for the season. But Buffalo has had problems playing in Miami, and I think the Bills are overrated. The Dolphins had the chance to beat both the Colts and the Chargers, two superior teams. The Bills are not a good team, and even with the junior Chad, Chad Henne, the Dolphins win.
BRONCOS (+3.5) over Cowboys
The Broncos have beaten two really bad teams (Raiders and Browns), and one team we don’t know about (Bengals) on a fluky play. That said, the Cowboys are up and down, and with a couple of banged up running backs, I think the Broncos keep it close and at least cover against the ‘Boys.
49ERS (-10.5) over Rams
The 49ers are coming off a disappointing loss at the Vikings. The Rams stink. The 49ers offense really isn’t capable of blowing teams out, but this is as close as the get. The Rams are going to get punished by the D and the running game. 49ers cover and win by at least two TD’s.
STEELERS (-6.5) over Chargers
The Steelers are 1-2, and are a desperate team this week. If they lose, there’s a really good chance they’ll be out of the playoffs. The Chargers are a good team, but they struggled against the Raiders and the Dolphins, and lost to the Ravens. I just have a feeling the Steelers break out this week and beat up the Chargers. But I’m not confident about it.
Packers (+3.5) over VIKINGS
The Brett Favre Bowl; please, somebody shoot me. I don’t want to hear about this game anymore. I’ll take the Packers and the points.
As usual, HOME TEAM in CAPS.
BEARS (-10.5) over Lions
The Lions finally won a game. Congrats. No winning streak coming though. I still don’t like the Bears this year, but I can’t see them NOT covering the spread, at home, against the Lions.
Bengals (-5.5) over BROWNS
The Bengals are one fluke play away from being 3-0. They have beaten two VERY good teams in the Packers and the Steelers. Now they get the crappy Browns? They should win easy, but sometimes teams play up to their opponent, and sometimes they play down to their opponent.
COLTS (-8.5) over Seahawks
The Colts are still the Colts. The Seahawks are banged up, and are going on the road. I see the Colts winning pretty easy in this one.
Giants (-9.5) over CHIEFS
The Giants are a solid football team. They run the ball about as good as anybody, Eli manages the game well, and they have one of the best pass rushes in the league. They don’t let inferior teams keep up with them, which they showed last week against Tampa Bay. Kansas City is, well, terrible. Giants cover.
REDSKINS (-7.5) over Bucs
I’m going against popular opinion here, taking the ‘Skins and the points. They stink. But here’s my reason: I’m going against Tampa EVERY week. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. They’re going 2-14. So, it’s the Redskins and the points by default.
Titans (-2.5) over JAGUARS
The Titans are 0-3 now, after having the best record in the NFL last year. The Jaguars beat the Texans last week when they needed it. I think this week the Jags get Jaguar-ed, because the Titans NEED this win, and I think they get it.
TEXANS (-9.5) over Raiders
This game is rather easy for me to pick. The Texans are good, not great. The Raiders are in the running for the worst team in the league. Texans win, and should cove easily.
Ravens (+2.5) over PATRIOTS
New England played better last week than they had the previous two weeks. But this week, they get one of the best defenses in the NFL. Baltimore’s offense is getting better and better. I think the Ravens beat the Pats, in New England.
SAINTS (-6.5) over Jets
This is one of four really tough games to pick this week. I LOVE the Saints and their offense. The Jets defense has showed a lot so far this year. But I think the blitz-happy Jets get burned by the quick-striking offense of the Saints, and cover the spread.
DOLPHINS (+1.5) over Bills
I understand that Chad Pennington is out for the season. But Buffalo has had problems playing in Miami, and I think the Bills are overrated. The Dolphins had the chance to beat both the Colts and the Chargers, two superior teams. The Bills are not a good team, and even with the junior Chad, Chad Henne, the Dolphins win.
BRONCOS (+3.5) over Cowboys
The Broncos have beaten two really bad teams (Raiders and Browns), and one team we don’t know about (Bengals) on a fluky play. That said, the Cowboys are up and down, and with a couple of banged up running backs, I think the Broncos keep it close and at least cover against the ‘Boys.
49ERS (-10.5) over Rams
The 49ers are coming off a disappointing loss at the Vikings. The Rams stink. The 49ers offense really isn’t capable of blowing teams out, but this is as close as the get. The Rams are going to get punished by the D and the running game. 49ers cover and win by at least two TD’s.
STEELERS (-6.5) over Chargers
The Steelers are 1-2, and are a desperate team this week. If they lose, there’s a really good chance they’ll be out of the playoffs. The Chargers are a good team, but they struggled against the Raiders and the Dolphins, and lost to the Ravens. I just have a feeling the Steelers break out this week and beat up the Chargers. But I’m not confident about it.
Packers (+3.5) over VIKINGS
The Brett Favre Bowl; please, somebody shoot me. I don’t want to hear about this game anymore. I’ll take the Packers and the points.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
A plea to Brian Sabean
Dear Brian Sabean, GM of the San Francisco Giants,
As a disgruntled fan, I would like to propose a new, seemingly radical idea to you. It goes something like this:
GET SOME FREAKING OFFENSE!!!!!!
I understand, and support, your drafting strategy for these past few years. Home-grown pitching is the way to go. Lincecum, Cain, Sanchez, etc., have been great. But there's one problem with all that great pitching:
WITHOUT RUNS, A TEAM CAN NOT WIN!!!!!!
So, for all the Giants fans out there, I sincerely hope that this off-season brings about a change, an offensive change.
But then again, you may not be around for much longer.
Signed,
A Disappointed Fan,
Daniel Grant
As a disgruntled fan, I would like to propose a new, seemingly radical idea to you. It goes something like this:
GET SOME FREAKING OFFENSE!!!!!!
I understand, and support, your drafting strategy for these past few years. Home-grown pitching is the way to go. Lincecum, Cain, Sanchez, etc., have been great. But there's one problem with all that great pitching:
WITHOUT RUNS, A TEAM CAN NOT WIN!!!!!!
So, for all the Giants fans out there, I sincerely hope that this off-season brings about a change, an offensive change.
But then again, you may not be around for much longer.
Signed,
A Disappointed Fan,
Daniel Grant
Friday, September 25, 2009
Week 3 Picks
Well, 10-6 with my picks last week, not too shabby. If I’m gambling, I’m doing great! Noticed that the Falcons game didn’t end up on my picks post, but I did pick it, and I did get that one right. Falcons (-6.5) over Panthers. So, let’s see how Week 3 goes! By the way, before I started the blog, I was 10-6 in Week 1, and I can prove it! I’m a part of Bill Simmons’ Pigskin Pick ‘Em Group. I’m currently in the 90th percentile, not too bad. Alright, Week 3 picks!
Home Team in CAPS
Steelers (-4.5) over BENGALS
Steelers are coming off a bad loss to Chicago, I think Pittsburgh comes back this week and takes out their frustrations on a Bengal team coming off a big upset. I think the Steelers cover easy.
LIONS (+6.5) over Redskins
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m NOT picking the Lions to win, just to cover the spread. I think the Redskins are a BAD team. They barely beat the hapless Rams, at home. On the road in Detroit? The Lions do have a shot to win this game, and I think cover easy.
Packers (-6.5) over RAMS
The Packers were stunned by the Bengals last week, much to my chagrin. The Rams however, are the Rams. The Packers SHOULD win this one easy.
VIKINGS (-7.5) over 49ers
This game, to me, is the toughest game to pick. I like how the 49ers play: defense, defense and more defense. The offense scores enough points, and the D takes it from there. However, the Vikes do the same thing, but have a better QB, a better RB, and just as good a D. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Niners cover or get the outright win, but I think this is an important game for the Vikings; Farve’s first game at home, Peterson proving again he’s the best back in the league, just too much for the 49ers to handle.
PATRIOTS (-4.5) over Falcons
I really like the Falcons this year. The addition of Tony Gonzales has been HUGE for Matt Ryan. It really balances out their offense. That said, going up to New England and playing a Pats team coming off a bad loss to the Jets, I think it spells doom for the Falcons this week.
JETS (-2.5) over Titans
The Titans are 0-2, after having the best record in the NFL last year. The Jets look really good, and Sanchez looks like he’s going to be GREAT. If the Titans can’t run the football, which I don’t think they can against the Jets, they don’t win. Jets go to 3-0, the surprise team so far.
Chiefs (+9.5) over EAGLES
I may be going against popular opinion, but I can’t in good conscious pick an Eagles team that is getting almost 10 points, AND starting Kevin Kolb. I know the Chiefs are horrible, but that’s still a lot of points to give to a backup QB. I’ll take the points, but honestly, I don’t feel great about it.
GIANTS (-7.5) over Bucs
I said it before, I’ll say it again: The Bucs are going 2-14. This is NOT one of those wins. I think 7.5 is a little low. They’d have to put this line at 14 or 17 for me to even begin thinking about taking the Bucs and the points. Giants roll in this one.
Browns (+13.5) over RAVENS
This is another one of those “bad team gets a ton of points” games. I love the Ravens to do well this year, but they don’t strike me as a team that will blow anyone out. They usually own the Browns, but I don’t know if they’re going to cover. When in doubt, take the points, which I will here.
Jaguars (+3.5) over TEXANS
After last week, a lot of people are piling on to the Texans’ bandwagon, if they weren’t there already. I called last week for a loss for the them, and they beat the Titans, much to my surprise. This week, EVERYONE is taking them over the Jags. Popular gambling belief is that when EVERYONE is on one team, go the other way. So I will. Jags are desperate, Texan are feeling good about themselves, I think the Jags at least cover.
SEAHAWKS (+2.5) over Bears
A team with an awesome home field advantage is getting points? And it’s the Bears and an INT-prone QB? I know the Seahawks are banged up, but Seneca Wallace is a good backup, and has played well when he’s filled in for Hasselbeck. I’ll take the points, because I don’t believe in the Bears.
Saints (-5.5) over BILLS
The Saints offense is playing a team that’s given up an average of 332 passing yards in the first two weeks? Do the Saints score 50+ this week? Maybe. But I think the Saints win this one easily.
Broncos (+1.5) over RAIDERS
The Raiders are favored to win a game? Really? Alllllllllrighty then. Give me the Broncos.
CHARGERS (-5.5) over Dolphins
The Fish are coming off a Monday night heart-breaker, traveling cross-country, against a really good team. The Chargers should win this game. San Diego has a better D than the Colts, so the Wildcat shouldn’t work nearly as well as it did on Monday night.
Colts (+1.5) over CARDINALS
Easiest pick of the week for me. I can’t imagine the Cardinals winning this game. Indy is just a better team, and their getting points. I’ll take the Colts.
COWBOYS (-9.5) over Panthers
This is a tough one to pick. The Cowboys are so Jekyll and Hyde, and have been since Tony Romo, aka The Savior™, took over. He certainly doesn’t seem like a big game QB, but they seem to do well early in the season. The Panthers played a lot better last week than they did in Week 1. I like Jake Delhomme, and have since he led the Panthers to the Super Bowl. But it seems his time has come and gone. I’ll take the Cowboys to bounce back after last week’s gut-punch loss.
2009 Picks Record: 20-12
Home Team in CAPS
Steelers (-4.5) over BENGALS
Steelers are coming off a bad loss to Chicago, I think Pittsburgh comes back this week and takes out their frustrations on a Bengal team coming off a big upset. I think the Steelers cover easy.
LIONS (+6.5) over Redskins
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m NOT picking the Lions to win, just to cover the spread. I think the Redskins are a BAD team. They barely beat the hapless Rams, at home. On the road in Detroit? The Lions do have a shot to win this game, and I think cover easy.
Packers (-6.5) over RAMS
The Packers were stunned by the Bengals last week, much to my chagrin. The Rams however, are the Rams. The Packers SHOULD win this one easy.
VIKINGS (-7.5) over 49ers
This game, to me, is the toughest game to pick. I like how the 49ers play: defense, defense and more defense. The offense scores enough points, and the D takes it from there. However, the Vikes do the same thing, but have a better QB, a better RB, and just as good a D. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Niners cover or get the outright win, but I think this is an important game for the Vikings; Farve’s first game at home, Peterson proving again he’s the best back in the league, just too much for the 49ers to handle.
PATRIOTS (-4.5) over Falcons
I really like the Falcons this year. The addition of Tony Gonzales has been HUGE for Matt Ryan. It really balances out their offense. That said, going up to New England and playing a Pats team coming off a bad loss to the Jets, I think it spells doom for the Falcons this week.
JETS (-2.5) over Titans
The Titans are 0-2, after having the best record in the NFL last year. The Jets look really good, and Sanchez looks like he’s going to be GREAT. If the Titans can’t run the football, which I don’t think they can against the Jets, they don’t win. Jets go to 3-0, the surprise team so far.
Chiefs (+9.5) over EAGLES
I may be going against popular opinion, but I can’t in good conscious pick an Eagles team that is getting almost 10 points, AND starting Kevin Kolb. I know the Chiefs are horrible, but that’s still a lot of points to give to a backup QB. I’ll take the points, but honestly, I don’t feel great about it.
GIANTS (-7.5) over Bucs
I said it before, I’ll say it again: The Bucs are going 2-14. This is NOT one of those wins. I think 7.5 is a little low. They’d have to put this line at 14 or 17 for me to even begin thinking about taking the Bucs and the points. Giants roll in this one.
Browns (+13.5) over RAVENS
This is another one of those “bad team gets a ton of points” games. I love the Ravens to do well this year, but they don’t strike me as a team that will blow anyone out. They usually own the Browns, but I don’t know if they’re going to cover. When in doubt, take the points, which I will here.
Jaguars (+3.5) over TEXANS
After last week, a lot of people are piling on to the Texans’ bandwagon, if they weren’t there already. I called last week for a loss for the them, and they beat the Titans, much to my surprise. This week, EVERYONE is taking them over the Jags. Popular gambling belief is that when EVERYONE is on one team, go the other way. So I will. Jags are desperate, Texan are feeling good about themselves, I think the Jags at least cover.
SEAHAWKS (+2.5) over Bears
A team with an awesome home field advantage is getting points? And it’s the Bears and an INT-prone QB? I know the Seahawks are banged up, but Seneca Wallace is a good backup, and has played well when he’s filled in for Hasselbeck. I’ll take the points, because I don’t believe in the Bears.
Saints (-5.5) over BILLS
The Saints offense is playing a team that’s given up an average of 332 passing yards in the first two weeks? Do the Saints score 50+ this week? Maybe. But I think the Saints win this one easily.
Broncos (+1.5) over RAIDERS
The Raiders are favored to win a game? Really? Alllllllllrighty then. Give me the Broncos.
CHARGERS (-5.5) over Dolphins
The Fish are coming off a Monday night heart-breaker, traveling cross-country, against a really good team. The Chargers should win this game. San Diego has a better D than the Colts, so the Wildcat shouldn’t work nearly as well as it did on Monday night.
Colts (+1.5) over CARDINALS
Easiest pick of the week for me. I can’t imagine the Cardinals winning this game. Indy is just a better team, and their getting points. I’ll take the Colts.
COWBOYS (-9.5) over Panthers
This is a tough one to pick. The Cowboys are so Jekyll and Hyde, and have been since Tony Romo, aka The Savior™, took over. He certainly doesn’t seem like a big game QB, but they seem to do well early in the season. The Panthers played a lot better last week than they did in Week 1. I like Jake Delhomme, and have since he led the Panthers to the Super Bowl. But it seems his time has come and gone. I’ll take the Cowboys to bounce back after last week’s gut-punch loss.
2009 Picks Record: 20-12
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