The regular season for college basketball is beginning to heat up with conference play right around the corner, the major programs are getting in a few more games before the new year starts against tough non-conference opponents. This weekend boasts big games in New York City, Los Angeles and Cowboys Stadium.
3 GAMES TO WATCH:
(7) Duke v. (15) Gonzaga 4:00, CBS
Game played @ Madison Square Garden
The Blue Devils make their annual trip to Madison Square Garden for a big non-conference game in their home away from home in New York City. The Blue Devils are 8-1 with their only loss to Wisconsin. Led by the guard play of Jon Scheyer and Nolan Smith, both who are averaging over 16 points a game, Coach K's team have consistency in the backcourt to feed Kyle Singler, Brian Zoubek, and Mason Plumlee. On the other bench, coach Mark Few has the Zags poised for another March run which is being led this season by G Matt Bouldin. If the Zags come to play, which they should, expect this to be a great showcase of guard play.
Prediction: Duke 78, Gonzaga 71
(22) Kansas State @ Alabama
Frank Martin's Wildcats have been the surprise team in the nation this season and they face a crucial road test in Tuscaloosa Saturday night. At 9-1, the Wildcats have played a fairly easy schedule with their only loss coming to the Tide's SEC West rival, Ole Miss. The Tide are rolling even after a loss to Purdue last weekend and will look to use their home court advantage. Mikhail Torrance and JaMychal Green will both have to step up to lead the home side to victory.
Prediction: Alabama 62, K-State 49
(10) North Carolina v. (2) Texas 2:00, ESPN
Game played at Cowboys Stadium
Since every other football stadium hosts at least one big game in its bid to host a final four, Jerry Jones has brought a great game to be the first basketball game at the $1 billion stadium. After a heartbreaking loss to John Wall and Kentucky two weeks ago, the Tar Heels rebounded with an easy win over Presbyterian 103-64 in their last game. The Longhorns are rolling through teams but they have not played the caliber of opponents that UNC has. The key to this game will be the depth of each team off the bench. Texas has five players that average ten points a game and the Tar Heels boast only three. For North Carolina to win they must get production from players like Tyler Zeller, Larry Drew II and Will Graves to have a chance at challenging Texas' depth.
Prediction: Texas 71, UNC 65
UPSET ALERT:
(20) Texas Tech @ Wichita State, 8:05
The Red Raiders are off to an undefeated start and will face the first big test of the perfect record in Wichita. The Shockers are 8-1 with their only loss coming to Pitt in November. Wichita State is now one of the mid-majors that teams do not want to schedule because of the great results they have got out of the MVC so give credit to Texas Tech for scheduling this game the home crowd will be too much.
Prediction: Wichita St. 81, Texas Tech 60
As the season draws closer to conference play, we will see who is prepared the most this weekend through these tough non-conference games.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Weekend Bowl Preview
December is always an exciting month for college sports and this weekend is only the start to what will be a great last 12 days of 2009. With college football bowl games starting Saturday, 6 teams have a chance to bring home an early Christmas present by winning their respective bowl games.
College Bowl Preview
The three bowls this weekend(New Mexico, St. Petersburg, and New Orleans) that feature five non-BCS conference and Rutgers from the Big East. Although the matchups might not be as interesting as the bowls after this weekend, some players you might not have heard of have the possibility to shine on a national stage.
Players to Watch:
RB Ryan Matthews, Fresno State
Matthews was one of the many early contenders for the Heisman this season and fell off the radar due to the Bulldogs' 8-4 record and the fact that Boise State stole all the nation's attention that was focused on the WAC.
DE Bruce Miller, UCF
Miller finished fifth in sacks this season in the NCAA and was named C-USA Defensive Player of the Year. Look for Miller to have a tough assignment against the Rutgers' O-Line but he should be able to breakthrough for at least two sacks.
WR Tim Brown, Rutgers
The senior receiver will be QB Tom Savage's main target on Saturday night in St. Petersburg against UCF. If Savage and Brown are able to hook up like they did in the regular season(Brown caught 51 passes for 1,051 yards) then the Scarlet Knights should put an end to their disappointing season with a win.
Predictions:
New Mexico Bowl: Fresno State 45, Wyoming 23
St. Petersburg Bowl: Rutgers 26, UCF 20
New Orleans Bowl:Middle Tenn. State 13, Southern Miss 10
College Bowl Preview
The three bowls this weekend(New Mexico, St. Petersburg, and New Orleans) that feature five non-BCS conference and Rutgers from the Big East. Although the matchups might not be as interesting as the bowls after this weekend, some players you might not have heard of have the possibility to shine on a national stage.
Players to Watch:
RB Ryan Matthews, Fresno State
Matthews was one of the many early contenders for the Heisman this season and fell off the radar due to the Bulldogs' 8-4 record and the fact that Boise State stole all the nation's attention that was focused on the WAC.
DE Bruce Miller, UCF
Miller finished fifth in sacks this season in the NCAA and was named C-USA Defensive Player of the Year. Look for Miller to have a tough assignment against the Rutgers' O-Line but he should be able to breakthrough for at least two sacks.
WR Tim Brown, Rutgers
The senior receiver will be QB Tom Savage's main target on Saturday night in St. Petersburg against UCF. If Savage and Brown are able to hook up like they did in the regular season(Brown caught 51 passes for 1,051 yards) then the Scarlet Knights should put an end to their disappointing season with a win.
Predictions:
New Mexico Bowl: Fresno State 45, Wyoming 23
St. Petersburg Bowl: Rutgers 26, UCF 20
New Orleans Bowl:Middle Tenn. State 13, Southern Miss 10
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Champions League Group Stage Wrap-Up
The UEFA Champions League group stage is now behind us and there are so many questions that still need answers for the 16 remaining clubs. Also, the group of 8 that are going to the Europa League are no pushovers and are the clear favorites to win that tournament.
Here are the things that we have learned from the group stage.
1. Parody was relevant throughout every group.
In a normal Champions League group stage, teams from Russia, Ukraine, and Romania would be easy wins for European powerhouses like Barcelona, Inter, and Sevilla. This year was not the case, especially in Group F where all four spots in the group were decided on Matchday 6 with Barca and Inter barely sliding through to the knockout round.
2. Spain and England are once again the top nations.
Six of the eight group winners came out of La Liga and the Barclays Premier League in Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona, Sevilla, and Arsenal. It is likely than for the second straight year we will see an England-Spain final.
3. Real Madrid has the capability to play for the title at home.
Madrid's President Florentino Perez's main goal this summer was to acheive another galaticos era at the Bernabeu and it is happening. With the Bernabeu hosting the final in May, Madrid will be more than motivated to play the final at home and have a real home field advantage. Stars like Cristiano Ronaldo are healing from injury right in time for the stretch run in La Liga and the knockout stage in the UCL.
4. France's top 2 clubs will pull a shock upset.
Bordeaux won Group A with 16 points, the most of a group winner, in a group that contained Bayern Munich and Juventus. Lyon was able to top Liverpool in Group E for second place sending the Reds to the Europa League. With the experience of facing quality opponents already in the group stage, both clubs have a good chance at surprising the continent and beating one of the superpowers.
5. The knockout will produce at least superpower tie.
With the likes of Inter, AC Milan, Porto, Lyon, and Bayern Munich in the group of second place teams, all of the eight group winners are hoping for Olympiakos, CSKA Moscow, or Stuttgart. But not all clubs get their wish and there will be at least one maybe even up to 5 major ties in the first knockout stage when the draw is announced on December 18th.
6. With a chance of super ties, an underdog could win this season.
If the chance of all 5 super ties between Europe's biggest clubs comes to fruition, some clubs from smaller leagues could slip through to the final if their luck doesn't run out. Teams that are hoping and praying for this possibility are Stuttgart, Olympiakos, Bordeaux, CSKA Moscow, and Porto.
7. All 8 clubs going to the Europa League have a chance to win that title.
The quality of clubs that finished in third this season surpasses any in recent history. Clubs with storied histories like Juventus, Liverpool, and Marseille, along with disappointing Atletico Madrid go down. Also, newcomers to major European competitions like Rubin Kazan, Unirea Urziceni, Standard Liege, and Wolfsburg could be major threats to the four big clubs going down.
All in all, the UEFA Champions League is shaping up to have the best season in recent memory and could prove brutal to some clubs with the chance of five super ties in the first knockout stage.
Here are the things that we have learned from the group stage.
1. Parody was relevant throughout every group.
In a normal Champions League group stage, teams from Russia, Ukraine, and Romania would be easy wins for European powerhouses like Barcelona, Inter, and Sevilla. This year was not the case, especially in Group F where all four spots in the group were decided on Matchday 6 with Barca and Inter barely sliding through to the knockout round.
2. Spain and England are once again the top nations.
Six of the eight group winners came out of La Liga and the Barclays Premier League in Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Barcelona, Sevilla, and Arsenal. It is likely than for the second straight year we will see an England-Spain final.
3. Real Madrid has the capability to play for the title at home.
Madrid's President Florentino Perez's main goal this summer was to acheive another galaticos era at the Bernabeu and it is happening. With the Bernabeu hosting the final in May, Madrid will be more than motivated to play the final at home and have a real home field advantage. Stars like Cristiano Ronaldo are healing from injury right in time for the stretch run in La Liga and the knockout stage in the UCL.
4. France's top 2 clubs will pull a shock upset.
Bordeaux won Group A with 16 points, the most of a group winner, in a group that contained Bayern Munich and Juventus. Lyon was able to top Liverpool in Group E for second place sending the Reds to the Europa League. With the experience of facing quality opponents already in the group stage, both clubs have a good chance at surprising the continent and beating one of the superpowers.
5. The knockout will produce at least superpower tie.
With the likes of Inter, AC Milan, Porto, Lyon, and Bayern Munich in the group of second place teams, all of the eight group winners are hoping for Olympiakos, CSKA Moscow, or Stuttgart. But not all clubs get their wish and there will be at least one maybe even up to 5 major ties in the first knockout stage when the draw is announced on December 18th.
6. With a chance of super ties, an underdog could win this season.
If the chance of all 5 super ties between Europe's biggest clubs comes to fruition, some clubs from smaller leagues could slip through to the final if their luck doesn't run out. Teams that are hoping and praying for this possibility are Stuttgart, Olympiakos, Bordeaux, CSKA Moscow, and Porto.
7. All 8 clubs going to the Europa League have a chance to win that title.
The quality of clubs that finished in third this season surpasses any in recent history. Clubs with storied histories like Juventus, Liverpool, and Marseille, along with disappointing Atletico Madrid go down. Also, newcomers to major European competitions like Rubin Kazan, Unirea Urziceni, Standard Liege, and Wolfsburg could be major threats to the four big clubs going down.
All in all, the UEFA Champions League is shaping up to have the best season in recent memory and could prove brutal to some clubs with the chance of five super ties in the first knockout stage.
Granderson Deal Benefits Tigers Most
On Wednesday night the three-team deal between the Yankees, Diamondbacks, and Tigers was finalized at the Winter Meetings in Indianapolis. All three teams will improve from the trade, the Yankees get a proven outfielder in Curtis Granderson and the D-Backs get two young starters in Edwin Jackson and Ian Kennedy, but the Tigers are getting away with a big steal in the four players that they received in the deal. The Tigers will definitely challenge the Twins for the AL Central this season again and could possibly be the front runners after picking up these four star prospects.
Austin Jackson, OF, Acquired from Yankees
Jackson was the Yankees' highest rated prospect and has been lighting up the minors for the past two years. Jackson will no doubt take Granderson's spot in the outfield. Although Jackson will not immediately replace the power of Granderson, Jackson's range defensively and speed on the basepaths will more than makeup for his lack of power.
Phil Coke, LHP, Acquired from Yankees
Coke broke out this season in New York becoming the main southpaw in the bullpen for most of the season. The only flaw in Coke's game this season was that he struggled in the postseason. Now with a ring and more experience, if the Tigers make the playoffs in 2010, they can count on Coke to be one of their top lefties.
Max Scherzer, RHP, Acquired from Arizona
Scherzer should take Edwin Jackson's vacated rotation spot. Scherzer has struggled with injuries a little but last season he proved to be a stable part of Arizona's rotation. He went 9-11 with a 4.12 ERA in 30 starts on a losing D-Backs team. Expect Scherzer's win total to go up and the fact that he won't feel pressured at the bottom of the rotation should lead to a breakout season.
Daniel Schlereth, LHP, Acquired from Arizona
The son of former NFL lineman Mark Schlereth, Daniel, like Coke, broke on the major league scene as a left-handed specialist out of the bullpen. Like Scherzer, Schlereth's numbers will improve greatly in Detroit this season. Last year in 21 games, he went 1-4 with a 5.89 ERA. Between Schlereth and Coke, the Tigers' southpaw situation in the bullpen in solved.
When analysts look back in five years on this trade, the Tigers will be the clear winners. Three of the four players have major league experience and Jackson should adjust fine to playing the outfield every day at Comerica Field in 2010.
Austin Jackson, OF, Acquired from Yankees
Jackson was the Yankees' highest rated prospect and has been lighting up the minors for the past two years. Jackson will no doubt take Granderson's spot in the outfield. Although Jackson will not immediately replace the power of Granderson, Jackson's range defensively and speed on the basepaths will more than makeup for his lack of power.
Phil Coke, LHP, Acquired from Yankees
Coke broke out this season in New York becoming the main southpaw in the bullpen for most of the season. The only flaw in Coke's game this season was that he struggled in the postseason. Now with a ring and more experience, if the Tigers make the playoffs in 2010, they can count on Coke to be one of their top lefties.
Max Scherzer, RHP, Acquired from Arizona
Scherzer should take Edwin Jackson's vacated rotation spot. Scherzer has struggled with injuries a little but last season he proved to be a stable part of Arizona's rotation. He went 9-11 with a 4.12 ERA in 30 starts on a losing D-Backs team. Expect Scherzer's win total to go up and the fact that he won't feel pressured at the bottom of the rotation should lead to a breakout season.
Daniel Schlereth, LHP, Acquired from Arizona
The son of former NFL lineman Mark Schlereth, Daniel, like Coke, broke on the major league scene as a left-handed specialist out of the bullpen. Like Scherzer, Schlereth's numbers will improve greatly in Detroit this season. Last year in 21 games, he went 1-4 with a 5.89 ERA. Between Schlereth and Coke, the Tigers' southpaw situation in the bullpen in solved.
When analysts look back in five years on this trade, the Tigers will be the clear winners. Three of the four players have major league experience and Jackson should adjust fine to playing the outfield every day at Comerica Field in 2010.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Heisman Vote Came Down to Last Game
This weekend proved how entertaining conference championship games can be and how players step up and have career games. Three players this weekend had career games that could have won them the Heisman: Mark Ingram, Ndamukong Suh, and C.J. Spiller. Unfortuneately, Spiller was not invited to New York so he is out of the running for the Heisman Trophy. On Monday night, 5 finalists were named: Ingram, Suh, Tim Tebow, Colt McCoy, and Toby Gerhart. Here are my rankings of the top 10 candidates because there is a legitimate case for 10 players maybe even more that could have won college football's most prestigious award.
10. Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
STATS: 93 receptions, 1496 yards, 15 TD, 2 rush TD
Tate was one of the few bright spots for the Irish this season and will be lock to go in the first 2 rounds of the draft after declaring to forgo his senior season on Monday.
9. Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State
STATS: 3325 pass yards, 39 TD 3 INT 64.8% completion rating
Moore would have been higher on the list but the Broncos did not play the quality of teams outside of Oregon and Nevada that many of the main contenders faced.
8. Dion Lewis, RB, Pitt
STATS: 1640 rush yards, 16 TD
Lewis was by far the best freshman in the nation and will be a Heisman contender in the next 2-3 years.
7. Tony Pike, QB, Cincinnati
STATS: 2350 pass yards, 26 TD, 62.8% completion
Pike was hurt for a quarter of the season and still put up tremendous numbers. If it wasn't for his injury, Pike might have been visiting New York this weekend with the other Heisman finalists.
6. C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
STATS: 1590 total yards, 15 total TD, 1 pass TD
Spiller's performance Saturday night in Tampa was Heisman worthy by running for 233 yards and 4 TD, if Clemson had won there would be no doubt Spiller would be a Heisman finalist instead of Toby Gerhart.
5. Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford
STATS: 1736 rush yards, 26 TD
Gerhart dominated Pac-10 defenses the whole season but lacks the national exposure that the Cardinal got. Also, with Stanford finishing fourth in the Pac-10, it weakens Gerhart's appeal because all of the other 4 players ahead of him reached a championship game in their respective conferences and although the Pac-10 does not have a championship game, had Stanford won the title outright, Gerhart would have a better chance of winning the Heisman.
4. Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
STATS: 3272 total yards, 31 total TD, 65.2% completion
The best college football player this decade, Tebow will finish his career in the Sugar Bowl instead of the BCS National Championship and as a Heisman finalist instead of the winner of the Heisman. If voters judged his overall career compared to the other finalists, Tebow would win hands down. When the winner is announced Saturday night, Archie Griffin will still be the only 2-time Heisman winner.
3. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
STATS: 3512 pass yards, 30 total TD, 70.5%completion
McCoy had a very average game versus Nebraska and he needed a game like he had against Texas A&M on Thanksgiving to win the award. But, because of the performances of Suh and Ingram, college football's winningest quarterback will have a national championship to focus on winning after his vacation to New York and thats is. Although, he has a better chance than Tebow to win, McCoy hurt his chances in the Big 12 Championship Game.
2. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
STATS: 52 tackles, 11.5 sacks
Suh is the best defensive player in football this season and maybe since Charles Woodson swarmed around Michigan Stadium a decade ago. Suh's performance was SUH-perb against Texas with 12 tackels and 4.5 sacks against the #2 team in the nation. All year long Suh has made players around him better and is truly the most valuable player to his team this season.
1. Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
STATS: 1542 rush yards, 322 receiving yards, 18 total TD
Ingram won the Heisman trophy in the SEC Championship against Florida. Rebounding from his horrific performance against Auburn, Ingram had 189 total yards and 3 rushing touchdowns. Ingram wins this award because he is the best player on the best team in the nation, and traditionally that is who wins the Heisman and this year will be no different.
10. Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
STATS: 93 receptions, 1496 yards, 15 TD, 2 rush TD
Tate was one of the few bright spots for the Irish this season and will be lock to go in the first 2 rounds of the draft after declaring to forgo his senior season on Monday.
9. Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State
STATS: 3325 pass yards, 39 TD 3 INT 64.8% completion rating
Moore would have been higher on the list but the Broncos did not play the quality of teams outside of Oregon and Nevada that many of the main contenders faced.
8. Dion Lewis, RB, Pitt
STATS: 1640 rush yards, 16 TD
Lewis was by far the best freshman in the nation and will be a Heisman contender in the next 2-3 years.
7. Tony Pike, QB, Cincinnati
STATS: 2350 pass yards, 26 TD, 62.8% completion
Pike was hurt for a quarter of the season and still put up tremendous numbers. If it wasn't for his injury, Pike might have been visiting New York this weekend with the other Heisman finalists.
6. C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
STATS: 1590 total yards, 15 total TD, 1 pass TD
Spiller's performance Saturday night in Tampa was Heisman worthy by running for 233 yards and 4 TD, if Clemson had won there would be no doubt Spiller would be a Heisman finalist instead of Toby Gerhart.
5. Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford
STATS: 1736 rush yards, 26 TD
Gerhart dominated Pac-10 defenses the whole season but lacks the national exposure that the Cardinal got. Also, with Stanford finishing fourth in the Pac-10, it weakens Gerhart's appeal because all of the other 4 players ahead of him reached a championship game in their respective conferences and although the Pac-10 does not have a championship game, had Stanford won the title outright, Gerhart would have a better chance of winning the Heisman.
4. Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
STATS: 3272 total yards, 31 total TD, 65.2% completion
The best college football player this decade, Tebow will finish his career in the Sugar Bowl instead of the BCS National Championship and as a Heisman finalist instead of the winner of the Heisman. If voters judged his overall career compared to the other finalists, Tebow would win hands down. When the winner is announced Saturday night, Archie Griffin will still be the only 2-time Heisman winner.
3. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
STATS: 3512 pass yards, 30 total TD, 70.5%completion
McCoy had a very average game versus Nebraska and he needed a game like he had against Texas A&M on Thanksgiving to win the award. But, because of the performances of Suh and Ingram, college football's winningest quarterback will have a national championship to focus on winning after his vacation to New York and thats is. Although, he has a better chance than Tebow to win, McCoy hurt his chances in the Big 12 Championship Game.
2. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
STATS: 52 tackles, 11.5 sacks
Suh is the best defensive player in football this season and maybe since Charles Woodson swarmed around Michigan Stadium a decade ago. Suh's performance was SUH-perb against Texas with 12 tackels and 4.5 sacks against the #2 team in the nation. All year long Suh has made players around him better and is truly the most valuable player to his team this season.
1. Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
STATS: 1542 rush yards, 322 receiving yards, 18 total TD
Ingram won the Heisman trophy in the SEC Championship against Florida. Rebounding from his horrific performance against Auburn, Ingram had 189 total yards and 3 rushing touchdowns. Ingram wins this award because he is the best player on the best team in the nation, and traditionally that is who wins the Heisman and this year will be no different.
Friday, December 4, 2009
World Cup Early Bird Preview
Since everyone else in the world that loves soccer as much as I do is writing something or speaking their mind about the 2010 World Cup now that the draw is set, I might as well offer my opinion. First, let me start off by saying the ceremony drug on way too long and the guy announcing made Charlize Theron look like a complete idiot explaining how the draw worked for about 10 minutes.
Now it's time for the group previews/predictions.
Group A
South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, France
For just barely making the World Cup, France caught a break just like they did against Ireland on Henry's handball. Unfortuneately for the Irish and many soccer fans, France did not get placed in the group of death but instead got a free pass to the knockout round. South Africa will put a fight, obviously, because they are the host nation. Mexico and Uruguay did a good job qualifying but will have trouble against South Africa because the Bafana Bafana's supporters will be out in full force try to will the host country into the knouckout stage, in which every host nation has qualified in World Cup history.
Advancing: France, South Africa
Player to Watch: Karim Benzema, France, F
Benzema's talent was recognized by several European clubs as the hottest forward on the transfer market this summer and he ended up at Real Madrid, expect Benzema to showcase his talents on the world stage and starting over the aging Thierry Henry.
Group B:
Argentina, Nigeria, South Korea, Greece
Argentina struggled to qualify and it wouldn't be surprising if coach Diego Maradona doesn't get to see the World Cup matches from the touchline. Nigeria is playing on their home contient and should put up a good fight. South Korea and Greece are two sides that should be overlooked. Greece won the 2004 Euro and South Korea made the semis as host in the 2002 World Cup. Players from both sides are experienced in high-pressure matches and should prove some trouble to the favorites Argentina.
Advancing: Argentina, South Korea
Player to Watch: Ji-Sung Park, South Korea, M
Park is a big game player. There is a reason Sir Alex Ferguson puts Park in the starting eleven for many crucial Champions League ties at Manchester United. Park is now the captain of the South Korea side and his leadership on and off the field will be the key to his side's advancement this summer.
Group C
England, USA, Algeria, Slovenia
The U.S. got off easy this time around. The past two World Cup draw have not been so generous to Bob Bradley's squad. The English are on fire, Fabio Capello has whipped this team into shape and should be considered a favorite to win the whole thing. After their experience in the Confederations Cup this past summer, the U.S. has the confidence to beat soccer powerhouse countries, like England. In the end, the England v. USA tie will decide first place in the group, Algeria and Slovenia have no chance.
Advancing: U.S., England
Player to watch: Darren Bent, England, F
Bent has been on fire in the Barclays Premier League with Sunderland and has been rewarded with call-ups to the national team. If there is a lack of production from Wayne Rooney and Jermain Defoe, watch for Bent to ignite the team coming off the bench.
Group D:
Germany, Austrailia, Serbia, Ghana
At first glance you may think that the Germans will go through the group fairly easy but if you look at the group harder, it will be a challenge for the Germans. Ghana has a strong midfield led by Chelsea's Michael Essien and Serbia's back line is headed by Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic, both countries will make Germany work as well as the Socceroos who always play with their hearts on their sleeves and this summer it will be no different.
Advancing: Germany, Serbia
Player to watch: Bastian Schweinsteiger, Germany, M
In every major tournament you watch with Germany in it you can not miss Schweinsteiger, whether it is his name, his bleach blond hair or his aggressiveness that shows as he is all around the pitch for all 90 minutes. In the 2008 Euro final, Schweinsteiger was everywhere and although the Germans ended up on the wrong side of the tie, number 7 for Germany should have been named MOP anyway because of his style of play and this summer in South Africa will be no different.
Group E:
Netherlands, Denmark, Japan, Cameroon
There are few sure things going into major soccer tournaments but one thing you can always count on is the Dutch scoring machine and then they lose their first match in the knockout round because they get a weak draw. The same will probably happen this summer. The scoring machine this time around features Dirk Kuyt, Ryan Babel, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Robin van Persie, if he recovers from injury in time. The other three nations are fighting for second place and it will be a great battle. Samuel Eto'o will lead Cameroon and possesses a scoring threat that the rest of the group will fear. After the last games are played on June 24th in this group, the Dutch will advance but the other place is a toss-up.
Advancing: Netherlands, Cameroon
Player to watch: Mark van Bommel, Netherlands, M
van Bommel is the oldest man on the Dutch squad and the most experienced. Someone has to feed the Dutch attack the ball and the Bayern Munich captain is the perfect fit. van Bommel can also defend well so that gives the Dutch an advantage since they will face many counterattacks because of their aggresive forwards.
Group F:
Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand, Slovakia
If you win the World Cup, the next time around FIFA rewards with a free pass to the knockout round. Coincidence or not, the Azzurri win walk right through this group with 9 points. Paraguay and Slovakia will fight for second place and the opportunity to knockout the Dutch in the second round. New Zealand is only in the World Cup because Austrailia moved to the Asian region and New Zealand was second-best to them in Oceania, so they rightfully qualified.
Advancing: Italy, Paraguay
Player to watch: Giuseppe Rossi, Italy, F
Rossi has been lighting up goals in La Liga with Villarreal over the past couple years and has a chance to earn a mega contract with one of Europe's top clubs with a good performance. With the weak group, Rossi will be given a multitude of chances to excel in this summer's tournament.
Group G:
Brazil, North Korea, Ivory Coast, Portugal
The Group of Death this summer will be Group G. The talent alone would scare most nations, Brazil boasts Kaka, Ronaldinho, Robinho and many other superstars. Of course the main superstar in this group is Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal but the Ivory Coast boasts a boatload of stars in Europe's big leagues like Drogba, Keita, and the Toure brothers. North Korea has no shot in this group, they just get a nice vacation in South Africa and if their lucky steal a point. The other three teams will fight it out and it is really a toss-up which teams advance.
Advancing: Brazil, Ivory Coast
Player to watch: Nilmar, Brazil, F
Nilmar has come onto the national scene in recent months scoring a hat trick against Chile and scoring the only goal in a friendly against England. Like his Villarreal teammate Rossi, Nilmar will be playing for big contract with a major European club by becoming the breakout star of the tournament.
Group H:
Spain, Switzerland, Chile, Honduras
Spain got lucky with their draw. The 2008 European Champions will have no problem beating the other three teams in Group H because of one man:Fernando Torres. Torres has been a goal-scoring machine for Liverpool in the past two seasons and his consistency makes Spain's chances to advance further very likely. Honduras barely qualified, Chile almost lost their spot due to scandal back home, and the Swiss are as good as the major European powers to be a threat but one of those three must advance.
Advancing: Spain, Honduras
Player to watch: Amado Guevara, Honduras, M
Guevara has shown his toughness to MLS fans while playing with Toronto FC and his playing style will surprise his opponents in the group. Guevara will looking to feed the strike force that could surprise many people in Carlos Costly, David Suazo, and Carlos Pavon
Predictions for rest of tournament:
Round of 16:
France over South Korea
US over Serbia
Paraguay over Netherlands
Brazil over Honduras
Argentina over South Africa
England over Germany
Italy over Cameroon
Ivory Coast over Spain
Quarterfinals:
US over France
Brazil over Paraguay
England over Argentina
Ivory Coast over Italy
Semifinals:
US over Brazil
England over Ivory Coast
Final:
US over England in a rematch of their first game in the tournament.
Now it's time for the group previews/predictions.
Group A
South Africa, Mexico, Uruguay, France
For just barely making the World Cup, France caught a break just like they did against Ireland on Henry's handball. Unfortuneately for the Irish and many soccer fans, France did not get placed in the group of death but instead got a free pass to the knockout round. South Africa will put a fight, obviously, because they are the host nation. Mexico and Uruguay did a good job qualifying but will have trouble against South Africa because the Bafana Bafana's supporters will be out in full force try to will the host country into the knouckout stage, in which every host nation has qualified in World Cup history.
Advancing: France, South Africa
Player to Watch: Karim Benzema, France, F
Benzema's talent was recognized by several European clubs as the hottest forward on the transfer market this summer and he ended up at Real Madrid, expect Benzema to showcase his talents on the world stage and starting over the aging Thierry Henry.
Group B:
Argentina, Nigeria, South Korea, Greece
Argentina struggled to qualify and it wouldn't be surprising if coach Diego Maradona doesn't get to see the World Cup matches from the touchline. Nigeria is playing on their home contient and should put up a good fight. South Korea and Greece are two sides that should be overlooked. Greece won the 2004 Euro and South Korea made the semis as host in the 2002 World Cup. Players from both sides are experienced in high-pressure matches and should prove some trouble to the favorites Argentina.
Advancing: Argentina, South Korea
Player to Watch: Ji-Sung Park, South Korea, M
Park is a big game player. There is a reason Sir Alex Ferguson puts Park in the starting eleven for many crucial Champions League ties at Manchester United. Park is now the captain of the South Korea side and his leadership on and off the field will be the key to his side's advancement this summer.
Group C
England, USA, Algeria, Slovenia
The U.S. got off easy this time around. The past two World Cup draw have not been so generous to Bob Bradley's squad. The English are on fire, Fabio Capello has whipped this team into shape and should be considered a favorite to win the whole thing. After their experience in the Confederations Cup this past summer, the U.S. has the confidence to beat soccer powerhouse countries, like England. In the end, the England v. USA tie will decide first place in the group, Algeria and Slovenia have no chance.
Advancing: U.S., England
Player to watch: Darren Bent, England, F
Bent has been on fire in the Barclays Premier League with Sunderland and has been rewarded with call-ups to the national team. If there is a lack of production from Wayne Rooney and Jermain Defoe, watch for Bent to ignite the team coming off the bench.
Group D:
Germany, Austrailia, Serbia, Ghana
At first glance you may think that the Germans will go through the group fairly easy but if you look at the group harder, it will be a challenge for the Germans. Ghana has a strong midfield led by Chelsea's Michael Essien and Serbia's back line is headed by Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic, both countries will make Germany work as well as the Socceroos who always play with their hearts on their sleeves and this summer it will be no different.
Advancing: Germany, Serbia
Player to watch: Bastian Schweinsteiger, Germany, M
In every major tournament you watch with Germany in it you can not miss Schweinsteiger, whether it is his name, his bleach blond hair or his aggressiveness that shows as he is all around the pitch for all 90 minutes. In the 2008 Euro final, Schweinsteiger was everywhere and although the Germans ended up on the wrong side of the tie, number 7 for Germany should have been named MOP anyway because of his style of play and this summer in South Africa will be no different.
Group E:
Netherlands, Denmark, Japan, Cameroon
There are few sure things going into major soccer tournaments but one thing you can always count on is the Dutch scoring machine and then they lose their first match in the knockout round because they get a weak draw. The same will probably happen this summer. The scoring machine this time around features Dirk Kuyt, Ryan Babel, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Robin van Persie, if he recovers from injury in time. The other three nations are fighting for second place and it will be a great battle. Samuel Eto'o will lead Cameroon and possesses a scoring threat that the rest of the group will fear. After the last games are played on June 24th in this group, the Dutch will advance but the other place is a toss-up.
Advancing: Netherlands, Cameroon
Player to watch: Mark van Bommel, Netherlands, M
van Bommel is the oldest man on the Dutch squad and the most experienced. Someone has to feed the Dutch attack the ball and the Bayern Munich captain is the perfect fit. van Bommel can also defend well so that gives the Dutch an advantage since they will face many counterattacks because of their aggresive forwards.
Group F:
Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand, Slovakia
If you win the World Cup, the next time around FIFA rewards with a free pass to the knockout round. Coincidence or not, the Azzurri win walk right through this group with 9 points. Paraguay and Slovakia will fight for second place and the opportunity to knockout the Dutch in the second round. New Zealand is only in the World Cup because Austrailia moved to the Asian region and New Zealand was second-best to them in Oceania, so they rightfully qualified.
Advancing: Italy, Paraguay
Player to watch: Giuseppe Rossi, Italy, F
Rossi has been lighting up goals in La Liga with Villarreal over the past couple years and has a chance to earn a mega contract with one of Europe's top clubs with a good performance. With the weak group, Rossi will be given a multitude of chances to excel in this summer's tournament.
Group G:
Brazil, North Korea, Ivory Coast, Portugal
The Group of Death this summer will be Group G. The talent alone would scare most nations, Brazil boasts Kaka, Ronaldinho, Robinho and many other superstars. Of course the main superstar in this group is Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal but the Ivory Coast boasts a boatload of stars in Europe's big leagues like Drogba, Keita, and the Toure brothers. North Korea has no shot in this group, they just get a nice vacation in South Africa and if their lucky steal a point. The other three teams will fight it out and it is really a toss-up which teams advance.
Advancing: Brazil, Ivory Coast
Player to watch: Nilmar, Brazil, F
Nilmar has come onto the national scene in recent months scoring a hat trick against Chile and scoring the only goal in a friendly against England. Like his Villarreal teammate Rossi, Nilmar will be playing for big contract with a major European club by becoming the breakout star of the tournament.
Group H:
Spain, Switzerland, Chile, Honduras
Spain got lucky with their draw. The 2008 European Champions will have no problem beating the other three teams in Group H because of one man:Fernando Torres. Torres has been a goal-scoring machine for Liverpool in the past two seasons and his consistency makes Spain's chances to advance further very likely. Honduras barely qualified, Chile almost lost their spot due to scandal back home, and the Swiss are as good as the major European powers to be a threat but one of those three must advance.
Advancing: Spain, Honduras
Player to watch: Amado Guevara, Honduras, M
Guevara has shown his toughness to MLS fans while playing with Toronto FC and his playing style will surprise his opponents in the group. Guevara will looking to feed the strike force that could surprise many people in Carlos Costly, David Suazo, and Carlos Pavon
Predictions for rest of tournament:
Round of 16:
France over South Korea
US over Serbia
Paraguay over Netherlands
Brazil over Honduras
Argentina over South Africa
England over Germany
Italy over Cameroon
Ivory Coast over Spain
Quarterfinals:
US over France
Brazil over Paraguay
England over Argentina
Ivory Coast over Italy
Semifinals:
US over Brazil
England over Ivory Coast
Final:
US over England in a rematch of their first game in the tournament.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
This Weekend Means Everything For College Football
In the next 3 days, starting tommorrow, the champions of the Pac-10, MAC, C-USA, ACC, SEC, Big 12 and Big East will be decided. That leaves only 3 conferences in the Bowl Subdivision with champions already in Ohio State (Big 10), TCU (Mt. West), and Boise State (WAC). If you are a college football fan and can't get excited for this weekend, you shouldn't be a college football fan. The madness and this week's preview begins with the Civil War in Autzen Stadium Thursday night.
GAMES TO WATCH:
(16) Oregon State @ (7) Oregon (9:00, Thurs. , ESPN)
This is by far the biggest matchup in this rivalry ever. The Ducks and Beavers are bitter rivals and will fight it out for the outright Pac-10 title and a Rose Bowl berth. Both teams have lost to only quality teams like Boise State, Stanford, USC, Arizona, and Cincinnati. This should be a great matchup in the loudest stadium in college football, Autzen Stadium. No matter how much talent the Rodgers brother, James and Jacquizz, have they can't drain out the noise coming from every direction of Autzen. The Ducks' home-field advantage is a major attribute to being the favorite on Thursday but their rushing attack is on the same level, if not better, than the Rodgers brothers in Jeremiah Masoli and LaMichael James. James has stepped right into the void created by LeGarrette Blount after he was suspended by running for 1,310 yards and 11 TD.
PREDICTION:
Autzen Stadium is the loudest stadium in the nation and Oregon State, although well prepared for the crowd noise, will suffer from it and the motivation for Oregon to win this game at home will be too much.
Oregon 34-16
(5) Cincinnati @ (15) Pittsburgh (12:00 Sat. ABC)
This end of the year battle between the Bearcats and Panthers has both teams coming in to the game in different directions. Cincinnati is 11-0 and looking to stay undefeated. The Bearcats are also dealing with the rumors of coach Brian Kelly going to Notre Dame. Pitt is coming off a devastating loss to archrival West Virginia in the Backyard Brawl and what better way to bounce back then to beat Cincinnati at home, win the Big East, and got to a BCS bowl, most likely the Orange Bowl, all in one fowl swoop.
PREDICTION:
Pitt has a slight advantage at home and with Dion Lewis in the running game and could capitalize on a little bit of uncertainty in the Bearcats' camp. But, the Bearcats are on a mission and Coach Kelly will have his team ready to play and go 12-0.
Cincinnati 29-19
(3) Texas v. (22) Nebraska (8:00 Sat, ABC)
Game played at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX.
Colt McCoy and the Longhorns are in the BCS National Championship Game with a win and McCoy will win the Heisman with a good performance against the Huskers. Nebraska is on a 5-game Big 12 win streak and the Blackshirt defense led by DT Ndamukong Suh has been very impressive during the streak. Texas' defense did give up 39 points to Texas A&M on Thanksgiving but Nebraska does not possess the offense weapons that the Aggies have.
PREDICTION:
Both teams have the drive and talent to win this game but Texas has more than Nebraska does. Colt McCoy will lead his team to victory and win the Heisman Trophy next weekend in New York.
Texas 38-17
(10) Georgia Tech v. Clemson (8:00, Sat., ESPN)
Game being played in Tampa, FL
The ACC title game boasts two teams that faced crushing defeats to their archrivals last weekend and are looking to get back on track. The Yellow Jackets were stopped by Georgia last week at home, while the Tigers lost in Columbia to South Carolina. This game will be all about running the football. The triple option offense that Paul Johnson has instilled at Georgia Tech is working to perfection this season with 3 players rushing for over 500 yards this season. QB Josh Nesbitt and RBs Jonathan Dwyer and Anthony Allen will look to get the option back on track against the Tiger defense. For Clemson, senior RB C.J. Spiller has had yet another impressive season and has scored touchdowns in almost any way possible, rushing, receiving, kick return, punt return and even one passing touchdown. If the Yellow Jacket defense tightens up and stops Spiller, Georgia Tech will easily march into the BCS with the ACC Championship.
PREDICTION:
Spiller will have a decent game but the triple option will be too much for the Clemson defense.
Georgia Tech 31-14
GAME OF THE WEEK:
(1) Florida v. (2) Alabama (4:00,Sat, CBS)
Game played at Georgia Dome in Atlanta
The matchup college football fans have waited for all year is here. Florida and Alabama have been #1 and #2 virtually all season and both teams are ready to settle the score. Urban Meyer's Gators are used to the SEC Championship and playing in big games, especially QB Tim Tebow. Tebow will be looking to go out with a bang but one Gator will not be able to do that. DE Carlos Dunlap has been suspended for the game due to an arrest earlier in the week. This will give Alabama's offensive line an easier time blocking the Gators defensive, but the Gator D is still very strong. Bama needs a huge game out of RBs Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson. Ingram is still hurt from his ankle injury and might not be able to play, Richardson has to step up no matter what the case. QB Greg McElroy will face the most pressure and he will have to hit WR Julio Jones in clutch situations if Jones can get away from Gator CB Joe Haden. In the end, the winner gets the spoils, SEC Champions and a spot in the BCS National Championship Game.
PREDICTION:
The Gators are too good to lose this game and will set up the marquee matchup in the title game against Texas. Alabama will fight hard but after 60 minutes, the Gators will prevail.
Florida 20-10
GAMES TO WATCH:
(16) Oregon State @ (7) Oregon (9:00, Thurs. , ESPN)
This is by far the biggest matchup in this rivalry ever. The Ducks and Beavers are bitter rivals and will fight it out for the outright Pac-10 title and a Rose Bowl berth. Both teams have lost to only quality teams like Boise State, Stanford, USC, Arizona, and Cincinnati. This should be a great matchup in the loudest stadium in college football, Autzen Stadium. No matter how much talent the Rodgers brother, James and Jacquizz, have they can't drain out the noise coming from every direction of Autzen. The Ducks' home-field advantage is a major attribute to being the favorite on Thursday but their rushing attack is on the same level, if not better, than the Rodgers brothers in Jeremiah Masoli and LaMichael James. James has stepped right into the void created by LeGarrette Blount after he was suspended by running for 1,310 yards and 11 TD.
PREDICTION:
Autzen Stadium is the loudest stadium in the nation and Oregon State, although well prepared for the crowd noise, will suffer from it and the motivation for Oregon to win this game at home will be too much.
Oregon 34-16
(5) Cincinnati @ (15) Pittsburgh (12:00 Sat. ABC)
This end of the year battle between the Bearcats and Panthers has both teams coming in to the game in different directions. Cincinnati is 11-0 and looking to stay undefeated. The Bearcats are also dealing with the rumors of coach Brian Kelly going to Notre Dame. Pitt is coming off a devastating loss to archrival West Virginia in the Backyard Brawl and what better way to bounce back then to beat Cincinnati at home, win the Big East, and got to a BCS bowl, most likely the Orange Bowl, all in one fowl swoop.
PREDICTION:
Pitt has a slight advantage at home and with Dion Lewis in the running game and could capitalize on a little bit of uncertainty in the Bearcats' camp. But, the Bearcats are on a mission and Coach Kelly will have his team ready to play and go 12-0.
Cincinnati 29-19
(3) Texas v. (22) Nebraska (8:00 Sat, ABC)
Game played at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX.
Colt McCoy and the Longhorns are in the BCS National Championship Game with a win and McCoy will win the Heisman with a good performance against the Huskers. Nebraska is on a 5-game Big 12 win streak and the Blackshirt defense led by DT Ndamukong Suh has been very impressive during the streak. Texas' defense did give up 39 points to Texas A&M on Thanksgiving but Nebraska does not possess the offense weapons that the Aggies have.
PREDICTION:
Both teams have the drive and talent to win this game but Texas has more than Nebraska does. Colt McCoy will lead his team to victory and win the Heisman Trophy next weekend in New York.
Texas 38-17
(10) Georgia Tech v. Clemson (8:00, Sat., ESPN)
Game being played in Tampa, FL
The ACC title game boasts two teams that faced crushing defeats to their archrivals last weekend and are looking to get back on track. The Yellow Jackets were stopped by Georgia last week at home, while the Tigers lost in Columbia to South Carolina. This game will be all about running the football. The triple option offense that Paul Johnson has instilled at Georgia Tech is working to perfection this season with 3 players rushing for over 500 yards this season. QB Josh Nesbitt and RBs Jonathan Dwyer and Anthony Allen will look to get the option back on track against the Tiger defense. For Clemson, senior RB C.J. Spiller has had yet another impressive season and has scored touchdowns in almost any way possible, rushing, receiving, kick return, punt return and even one passing touchdown. If the Yellow Jacket defense tightens up and stops Spiller, Georgia Tech will easily march into the BCS with the ACC Championship.
PREDICTION:
Spiller will have a decent game but the triple option will be too much for the Clemson defense.
Georgia Tech 31-14
GAME OF THE WEEK:
(1) Florida v. (2) Alabama (4:00,Sat, CBS)
Game played at Georgia Dome in Atlanta
The matchup college football fans have waited for all year is here. Florida and Alabama have been #1 and #2 virtually all season and both teams are ready to settle the score. Urban Meyer's Gators are used to the SEC Championship and playing in big games, especially QB Tim Tebow. Tebow will be looking to go out with a bang but one Gator will not be able to do that. DE Carlos Dunlap has been suspended for the game due to an arrest earlier in the week. This will give Alabama's offensive line an easier time blocking the Gators defensive, but the Gator D is still very strong. Bama needs a huge game out of RBs Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson. Ingram is still hurt from his ankle injury and might not be able to play, Richardson has to step up no matter what the case. QB Greg McElroy will face the most pressure and he will have to hit WR Julio Jones in clutch situations if Jones can get away from Gator CB Joe Haden. In the end, the winner gets the spoils, SEC Champions and a spot in the BCS National Championship Game.
PREDICTION:
The Gators are too good to lose this game and will set up the marquee matchup in the title game against Texas. Alabama will fight hard but after 60 minutes, the Gators will prevail.
Florida 20-10
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