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-Digger's Daily-
The countdown to opening day has begun. Can San Francisco become baseball's first team to win back to back World Series titles in the new millennium? Winners in 2010 & 2012 has Giants fans believing they can win it all again in 2013.
Not much has changed since last season. The strength of this team lies squarely on the shoulders of starting pitchers. Cain, Bumgarner, Lincecum, Vogelsong & Zito remained injury free last year. They accounted for every start except two. The only question mark on this staff is two time Cy Young award winner Tim Lincecum. He's was far removed from usual domination. His pitching motion isn't the same as Cy Young years and it's safe to assume more of the same until he corrects a major mechanical flaw.
San Francisco's offense usually doesn't da
zzle but they're one of the top clutch hitting teams when the game is on the line. Don't forget how they became champs. During the '12 playoffs they came behind from 0-2 NLDS and 1-3 NLCS deficits before sweeping away Detroit in World Series action. Buster Posey was the only hitter to connect for more than 20 HR (24). Pablo Sandival's 63 RBI were good enough for 2nd highest (Posey 103). A full season from RF Hunter Pence will to wonders for scoring a few more runs. However, this one key missing ingredient from their attack as power.
Another strength is one of the National Leagues best bullpens. Relievers get the job done. Somehow they're always ready to go. Giants pitchers only completed 5 of 162. One of the keys in 2013 is keeping these guys healthy. Manager Bruce Bochy seems to make the right moves at the right time.
Forecast: Champs remain the team to beat. NL West will be a dogfight from beginning to end. Expect many dramatic 1 run contests. SF will go as far as their rotation takes them. 2013 will be challenging. 88-92 wins.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Super Bowl XLVII - Super Prediction
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-Digger's Daily-
The time has come to crown a new NFL champion. It's dubbed the "Brother Bowl". Jim Harbaugh's San Francisco 49ers (11-4-1) are 3 1/2 point favorites to beat brother John Harbaugh's Baltimore Ravens (10-6).
We've listened to a few sideshows heading into the big game.
- Super Bowl XLVII represents Ravens LB Ray Lewis final NFL game. He's been equally admired and criticized all week. Admired for his sensational play on the field. Severely criticized for three things...1) his involvement in a fight years ago leaving one man dead. No one was ever convicted and Lewis has refused any and all commentary. 2) Criticized for appearing to place himself above Ravens teammates by way of solo celebrations and post-game interviews. Most shockingly 3) accused of using PED's in a Sports Illustrated article. The magazine said Lewis sought help from a company that says its deer-antler spray and pills contain a banned product connected to human growth hormone.
- 49ers WR Randy Moss declared himself the best wide receiver in NFL history. Jerry Rice was quick to point out Moss hasn't won any Super Bowl's nor is he the leader in most receiving statistics. Moss is no stranger to controversy which seems to erupt in every city he's played during a fine career.
- 49ers DB Chris Culliver was forced to quickly take back anti-gay comments made earlier this week. During a live radio interview Culliver quipped: "I don't do the gay guys, man. I don't do that," Culliver said during the one-minute taped interview. "Ain't got no gay people on the team. They gotta get up outta here if they do. Can't be with that sweet stuff." So much for freedom of speech. 49ers officials quickly clamped down on Culliver.
- Legendary Miami Dolphins QB Dan Marino was exposed for fathering a child out of wedlock with another woman. Rumors swirl of Marino paying millions to the "other" woman to keep their affair (and child) silent. “This is a personal and private matter. I take full responsibility both personally and financially for my actions now as I did then,” Marino said. “We mutually agreed to keep our arrangement private to protect all parties involved.”
- Both Jim and John Harbaugh tried keeping media focused on their Super Bowl teams instead of Harbaugh vs Harbaugh (first time in history two brothers are head coaches of Super Bowl teams).
- Marshall Faulk keeps "Spygate" alive. "Spygate" was big news when New England Patriots were caught illegally filming opponents practice sessions. Faulk's Rams were defeated by New England in SB XXXVI 20-17. "Am I over the loss? Yeah, I'm over the loss," Faulk told CSNNE.com's Tom Curran on Tuesday. "But I'll never be over being cheated out of the Super Bowl. That's a different story. I can understand losing a Super Bowl; that's fine … But how things happened and what took place. Obviously, the commissioner gets to handle things how he wants to handle them. But if they wanted us to shut up about what happened, show us the tapes. Don't burn 'em."
(Commissioner Goodall burned tapes submitted as evidence against New England and cleared them of wrong doing for the SB game).
So, now that we've tackled the bizaar, are you ready for some football? Who will win?
Super Bowl XLVII features two very good head coaches. Two very strong defenses. Two clutch offenses. Sunday's game is probably the best player for player matchup in recent memory. Defense is expected to rule the day. Time to break down some key elements...
QB: (even) SF is led by tattooed rookie sensation Colin Kaepernick. He runs at will and can burn defenses with strong armed throws. He started SF's final 7 games after early season starter Alex Smith was sidelined by injury. He's a handful to shut down. If there's one team capable of slowing him down it's Baltimore's tenacious defense.
Baltimore has steady handed Joe Flacco leading the way. He has good vision, strong arm and protects the ball well. He'll face a furious 49ers pass rush and ever changing defensive schemes. I'll rank them even for one main reason. Although Kaepernick is more dynamic based on his rushing ability, Flacco reads defenses better and is cooler in the pocket. K's has never faced a defense like Baltimore's. Sunday might turn out to be a daunting learning on the job experience.
RB: (even) Frank Gore (SF) vs Ray Rice (Bal). Offensive lines key for both players. Both excellent runners and receivers out of the backfield. It'll be interesting watching how their coordinators fit them into game plans.
WR: (Ravens) I give the edge to Baltimore here. Boldin, Smith, Jones find ways to get open and have played great in playoff action. Flacco and these guys are on the same page. If Ravens line gives protection then look for a big day from these guys.
Randy Moss put a bullseye on his own back and Baltimore will make him pay dearly. Crabtree has been their go to guy all season and I expect Ravens defenders to keep him blanketed all game long.
TE: (even) Vernon Davis (SF) vs Dennis Pitta (Bal). Davis is a bruiser. Defenders better square up and wrap up or Davis will run them over. Pitta is a clutch chain mover and gives Flacco options.
Defense: (even) Both teams come flying after the ball. Niether is fooled often. All players appear healthy. 49ers were burned early and often against Atlanta in NFC Championship Game. However, they clamped down in the second half and completely stymied the Falcons soaring attack. Ravens were chewed up by Denver in divisional round but rebounded to keep Tom Brady and Patriots completely off balance.
Special teams: (Ravens) Ravens have a clear advantage here. Justin Tucker converted 30 of 33 field goals. Jacoby Jones returned 3 kicks for touchdowns (1 kickoff, 2 punts). He's a big key for field position this game. Niners kicker David Akers (29 of 42) has been struggling for most of the 2nd half of the season including a miss in the Championship Game. A miss on Sunday can make or break SF. His past misses might force Harbaugh's hand into going for it on 4th down when he might normally decide to kick.
Final outcome: It's going to be a great game. I'm expecting a very tight first half. The second half will belong to Baltimore. Ravens win 30-17.
-Digger's Daily-
The time has come to crown a new NFL champion. It's dubbed the "Brother Bowl". Jim Harbaugh's San Francisco 49ers (11-4-1) are 3 1/2 point favorites to beat brother John Harbaugh's Baltimore Ravens (10-6).
We've listened to a few sideshows heading into the big game.
- Super Bowl XLVII represents Ravens LB Ray Lewis final NFL game. He's been equally admired and criticized all week. Admired for his sensational play on the field. Severely criticized for three things...1) his involvement in a fight years ago leaving one man dead. No one was ever convicted and Lewis has refused any and all commentary. 2) Criticized for appearing to place himself above Ravens teammates by way of solo celebrations and post-game interviews. Most shockingly 3) accused of using PED's in a Sports Illustrated article. The magazine said Lewis sought help from a company that says its deer-antler spray and pills contain a banned product connected to human growth hormone.
- 49ers WR Randy Moss declared himself the best wide receiver in NFL history. Jerry Rice was quick to point out Moss hasn't won any Super Bowl's nor is he the leader in most receiving statistics. Moss is no stranger to controversy which seems to erupt in every city he's played during a fine career.
- 49ers DB Chris Culliver was forced to quickly take back anti-gay comments made earlier this week. During a live radio interview Culliver quipped: "I don't do the gay guys, man. I don't do that," Culliver said during the one-minute taped interview. "Ain't got no gay people on the team. They gotta get up outta here if they do. Can't be with that sweet stuff." So much for freedom of speech. 49ers officials quickly clamped down on Culliver.
- Legendary Miami Dolphins QB Dan Marino was exposed for fathering a child out of wedlock with another woman. Rumors swirl of Marino paying millions to the "other" woman to keep their affair (and child) silent. “This is a personal and private matter. I take full responsibility both personally and financially for my actions now as I did then,” Marino said. “We mutually agreed to keep our arrangement private to protect all parties involved.”
- Both Jim and John Harbaugh tried keeping media focused on their Super Bowl teams instead of Harbaugh vs Harbaugh (first time in history two brothers are head coaches of Super Bowl teams).
- Marshall Faulk keeps "Spygate" alive. "Spygate" was big news when New England Patriots were caught illegally filming opponents practice sessions. Faulk's Rams were defeated by New England in SB XXXVI 20-17. "Am I over the loss? Yeah, I'm over the loss," Faulk told CSNNE.com's Tom Curran on Tuesday. "But I'll never be over being cheated out of the Super Bowl. That's a different story. I can understand losing a Super Bowl; that's fine … But how things happened and what took place. Obviously, the commissioner gets to handle things how he wants to handle them. But if they wanted us to shut up about what happened, show us the tapes. Don't burn 'em."
(Commissioner Goodall burned tapes submitted as evidence against New England and cleared them of wrong doing for the SB game).
So, now that we've tackled the bizaar, are you ready for some football? Who will win?
Super Bowl XLVII features two very good head coaches. Two very strong defenses. Two clutch offenses. Sunday's game is probably the best player for player matchup in recent memory. Defense is expected to rule the day. Time to break down some key elements...
QB: (even) SF is led by tattooed rookie sensation Colin Kaepernick. He runs at will and can burn defenses with strong armed throws. He started SF's final 7 games after early season starter Alex Smith was sidelined by injury. He's a handful to shut down. If there's one team capable of slowing him down it's Baltimore's tenacious defense.
Baltimore has steady handed Joe Flacco leading the way. He has good vision, strong arm and protects the ball well. He'll face a furious 49ers pass rush and ever changing defensive schemes. I'll rank them even for one main reason. Although Kaepernick is more dynamic based on his rushing ability, Flacco reads defenses better and is cooler in the pocket. K's has never faced a defense like Baltimore's. Sunday might turn out to be a daunting learning on the job experience.
RB: (even) Frank Gore (SF) vs Ray Rice (Bal). Offensive lines key for both players. Both excellent runners and receivers out of the backfield. It'll be interesting watching how their coordinators fit them into game plans.
WR: (Ravens) I give the edge to Baltimore here. Boldin, Smith, Jones find ways to get open and have played great in playoff action. Flacco and these guys are on the same page. If Ravens line gives protection then look for a big day from these guys.
Randy Moss put a bullseye on his own back and Baltimore will make him pay dearly. Crabtree has been their go to guy all season and I expect Ravens defenders to keep him blanketed all game long.
TE: (even) Vernon Davis (SF) vs Dennis Pitta (Bal). Davis is a bruiser. Defenders better square up and wrap up or Davis will run them over. Pitta is a clutch chain mover and gives Flacco options.
Defense: (even) Both teams come flying after the ball. Niether is fooled often. All players appear healthy. 49ers were burned early and often against Atlanta in NFC Championship Game. However, they clamped down in the second half and completely stymied the Falcons soaring attack. Ravens were chewed up by Denver in divisional round but rebounded to keep Tom Brady and Patriots completely off balance.
Special teams: (Ravens) Ravens have a clear advantage here. Justin Tucker converted 30 of 33 field goals. Jacoby Jones returned 3 kicks for touchdowns (1 kickoff, 2 punts). He's a big key for field position this game. Niners kicker David Akers (29 of 42) has been struggling for most of the 2nd half of the season including a miss in the Championship Game. A miss on Sunday can make or break SF. His past misses might force Harbaugh's hand into going for it on 4th down when he might normally decide to kick.
Final outcome: It's going to be a great game. I'm expecting a very tight first half. The second half will belong to Baltimore. Ravens win 30-17.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 17
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-Digger's Daily-
This is it. NFL's 2012 regular season concludes on the final Sunday of the year. NFC East is up for grabs. NFC Wild Card not yet determined either. AFC playoff bound teams still have something to play for - home field advantage & first round bye's. This weekend could be difficult for fantasy managers if head coaches decide to rest key players so be sure to keep an eye on lineup/injury reports before finalizing bets.
Digger nailed 11 of 16 last week improving season numbers to 153-87 (63.8%). Buckle up... Week 17 has fine games slated to end the regular season.
-Digger's Daily-
This is it. NFL's 2012 regular season concludes on the final Sunday of the year. NFC East is up for grabs. NFC Wild Card not yet determined either. AFC playoff bound teams still have something to play for - home field advantage & first round bye's. This weekend could be difficult for fantasy managers if head coaches decide to rest key players so be sure to keep an eye on lineup/injury reports before finalizing bets.
Digger nailed 11 of 16 last week improving season numbers to 153-87 (63.8%). Buckle up... Week 17 has fine games slated to end the regular season.
| SUNDAY | |
|---|---|
| FALCONS 31 | Bucs 17 |
| BILLS 24 | Jets 20 |
| Ravens 24 | BENGALS 17 |
| Bears 28 | LIONS 24 |
| TITANS 37 | Jags 10 |
| Texans 27 | COLTS 23 |
| SAINTS 48 | Panthers 21 |
| GIANTS 27 | Eagles 10 |
| STEELERS 21 | Browns 3 |
| CHARGERS 20 | Raiders 14 |
| 49ERS 27 | Cardinals 6 |
| SEAHAWKS 33 | Rams 13 |
| Packers 31 | VIKINGS 24 |
| PATRIOTS 34 | Dolphins 13 |
| BRONCOS 35 | Chiefs 9 |
| REDSKINS 38 | Cowboys 28 |
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 16
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-Digger's Daily-
NFL coaching vacancies coming soon. Not soon enough for sickened fans in New York (Jets), Cleveland, Buffalo, Arizona, Philadelphia, San Diego & Kansas City. Rex Ryan's tenure has been disasterous and getting worse from game to game. San Diego bet their future on Norv Turner and lost huge. Andy Reid's decision to tab Vick as starting QB (and a host of other recent failures) will lead him out of Philly. Week 15 was the weekend owners probably said to themselves, enough is enough.
On the upside, 2012 NFL playoff race tightened up. NFC East is a 3 team fight between red hot Washington, Dallas and slumping defending champion Giants. Seattle & Minnesota looking more and more like wild card entries even though we're still in anything can happen mode. Chicago, once 7-1, is in deep trouble on the outside looking in at 8-6.
The AFC picture is much clearer. This weekend's Pittsburgh vs Cincinnati battle will determine their fate. Pittsburgh already beat their divisional rival on October 21. Another win gives the Steelers an obvious tie breaker advantage. One more Colts victory and they're in. Get ready for another super weekend of games.
That's better. After a terrible Week 14, Digger responds with 12 correct picks (142-82... 63.4%). No more Thursday night games. No Monday Night Football this week either as all eyes focus on Santa Claus sled.
-Digger's Daily-
NFL coaching vacancies coming soon. Not soon enough for sickened fans in New York (Jets), Cleveland, Buffalo, Arizona, Philadelphia, San Diego & Kansas City. Rex Ryan's tenure has been disasterous and getting worse from game to game. San Diego bet their future on Norv Turner and lost huge. Andy Reid's decision to tab Vick as starting QB (and a host of other recent failures) will lead him out of Philly. Week 15 was the weekend owners probably said to themselves, enough is enough.
On the upside, 2012 NFL playoff race tightened up. NFC East is a 3 team fight between red hot Washington, Dallas and slumping defending champion Giants. Seattle & Minnesota looking more and more like wild card entries even though we're still in anything can happen mode. Chicago, once 7-1, is in deep trouble on the outside looking in at 8-6.
The AFC picture is much clearer. This weekend's Pittsburgh vs Cincinnati battle will determine their fate. Pittsburgh already beat their divisional rival on October 21. Another win gives the Steelers an obvious tie breaker advantage. One more Colts victory and they're in. Get ready for another super weekend of games.
That's better. After a terrible Week 14, Digger responds with 12 correct picks (142-82... 63.4%). No more Thursday night games. No Monday Night Football this week either as all eyes focus on Santa Claus sled.
| SATURDAY | |
|---|---|
| Falcons 38 | LIONS 21 |
| SUNDAY | |
| Saints 33 | COWBOYS 20 |
| PACKERS 31 | Titans 7 |
| Colts 24 | CHIEFS 3 |
| DOLPHINS 21 | Bills 10 |
| Chargers 10 | JETS 9 |
| Redskins 30 | EAGLES 17 |
| STEELERS 23 | Bengals 21 |
| BUCS 24 | Rams 21 |
| PANTHERS 28 | Raiders 14 |
| Patriots 55 | JAGUARS 6 |
| TEXANS 23 | Vikings 17 |
| BRONCOS 33 | Browns 9 |
| Bears 17 | CARDINALS 13 |
| Giants 24 | RAVENS 23 |
| 49ers 20 | SEAHAWKS 17 |
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 15
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-Digger's Daily-
Digger's predictions were snuffed out last weekend. Only 7 correct picks represents a season low. 130-78 (62.5%) overall after a couple of upsets shook things up. The Ravens (9-4) were so stunned by a 31-28 overtime loss to Washington that they canned offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. Former Colts head coach Jim Caldwell takes over hoping to rectify what should be one of the leagues better offensive units. Another stunner was Carolina's (4-9) upset over Atlanta (11-2). Pittsburgh (7-6) blew a golden opportunity to take charge for the AFC's final playoff spot as they were embarrassed on home turf by San Diego (5-8) 34-24. Houston (11-2) fans have good reason to be concerned after getting dissected by a superior Patriots (10-3) team on MNF. New England exposed many flaws in the Texans defense which will have coaches taking notice come playoff time.
Back to the drawing board for Week 15. Some great matchups on paper. Giants travel to Atlanta. Green Bay in Chicago. Peyton Manning vs Ravens defense. Colts head south to Houston. Pittsburgh to Big D. 49ers attempt to tame Tom Brady in Foxboro. Grab a seat and enjoy all the action this weekend. Playoff implications running high. Time to pick'em (home in CAPS).
.
-Digger's Daily-
Digger's predictions were snuffed out last weekend. Only 7 correct picks represents a season low. 130-78 (62.5%) overall after a couple of upsets shook things up. The Ravens (9-4) were so stunned by a 31-28 overtime loss to Washington that they canned offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. Former Colts head coach Jim Caldwell takes over hoping to rectify what should be one of the leagues better offensive units. Another stunner was Carolina's (4-9) upset over Atlanta (11-2). Pittsburgh (7-6) blew a golden opportunity to take charge for the AFC's final playoff spot as they were embarrassed on home turf by San Diego (5-8) 34-24. Houston (11-2) fans have good reason to be concerned after getting dissected by a superior Patriots (10-3) team on MNF. New England exposed many flaws in the Texans defense which will have coaches taking notice come playoff time.
Back to the drawing board for Week 15. Some great matchups on paper. Giants travel to Atlanta. Green Bay in Chicago. Peyton Manning vs Ravens defense. Colts head south to Houston. Pittsburgh to Big D. 49ers attempt to tame Tom Brady in Foxboro. Grab a seat and enjoy all the action this weekend. Playoff implications running high. Time to pick'em (home in CAPS).
| THURSDAY | |
|---|---|
| Bengals 27 | EAGLES 14 |
| SUNDAY | |
| Giants 33 | FALCONS 31 |
| Vikings 28 | RAMS 14 |
| DOLPHINS 17 | Jaguars 13 |
| Packers 30 | BEARS 17 |
| Redskins 23 | BROWNS 21 |
| Broncos 24 | RAVENS 20 |
| TEXANS 31 | Colts 20 |
| SAINTS 35 | Bucs 17 |
| Lions 27 | CARDINALS 13 |
| CHARGERS 31 | Panthers 24 |
| Seahawks 26 | BILLS 10 |
| COWBOYS 27 | Steelers 17 |
| RAIDERS 23 | Chiefs 21 |
| PATRIOTS 35 | 49ers 10 |
| MONDAY | |
| TITANS 24 | Jets 14 |
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 14
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-Digger's Daily-
Week 13 provided a few nailbiter games and clouded the playoff picture once again. San Francisco (8-3-1) can't seem to beat the Rams (5-6-1) this year. Both contests went into overtime. St. Louis won this time 16-13 after playing to a 24-24 tie on November 11th. RGIII dealt a huge blow to the Giants (7-5) 17-16 on Monday Night Football. Politics in Washington never more divided. However, locals of all creeds rallying around their new hero Robert Griffin III. Washington's (6-6) third straight win has them within 1 of NFC East lead. Bucs (6-6) & Vikings (6-6) 2nd consecutive losses clouds their futures after promising beginnings. As of now, 3 AFC teams fighting for 2 wild card slots. Indy (8-4), Pittsburgh (7-5) & Cincinnati (7-5) need to be tip top the rest of the way.
Week 14 features big games. Dallas @ Cincinnati, Chicago @ Minnesota, Houston @ New England and the battle of the Beltway - Baltimore @ Washington.
10 right, 6 wrong last weekend. Our season record is now 123-69 (64.1%). Time for Week 14 predictions (home teams in CAPS).
-Digger's Daily-
Week 13 provided a few nailbiter games and clouded the playoff picture once again. San Francisco (8-3-1) can't seem to beat the Rams (5-6-1) this year. Both contests went into overtime. St. Louis won this time 16-13 after playing to a 24-24 tie on November 11th. RGIII dealt a huge blow to the Giants (7-5) 17-16 on Monday Night Football. Politics in Washington never more divided. However, locals of all creeds rallying around their new hero Robert Griffin III. Washington's (6-6) third straight win has them within 1 of NFC East lead. Bucs (6-6) & Vikings (6-6) 2nd consecutive losses clouds their futures after promising beginnings. As of now, 3 AFC teams fighting for 2 wild card slots. Indy (8-4), Pittsburgh (7-5) & Cincinnati (7-5) need to be tip top the rest of the way.
Week 14 features big games. Dallas @ Cincinnati, Chicago @ Minnesota, Houston @ New England and the battle of the Beltway - Baltimore @ Washington.
10 right, 6 wrong last weekend. Our season record is now 123-69 (64.1%). Time for Week 14 predictions (home teams in CAPS).
| THURSDAY | |
|---|---|
| Broncos 27 | RAIDERS 10 |
| SUNDAY | |
| BILLS 24 | Rams 13 |
| BENGALS 27 | Cowboys 24 |
| BROWNS 17 | Chiefs 13 |
| COLTS 27 | Titans 17 |
| Bears 24 | VIKINGS 23 |
| BUCS 26 | Eagles 13 |
| Ravens 28 | REDSKINS 24 |
| Falcons 35 | PANTHERS 10 |
| JAGUARS 17 | Jets 10 |
| STEELERS 23 | Chargers 20 |
| 49ERS 21 | Dolphins 17 |
| SEAHAWKS 21 | Cardinals 10 |
| GIANTS 34 | Saints 28 |
| PACKERS 31 | Lions 21 |
| MONDAY | |
| Texans 26 | PATRIOTS 24 |
PermalinkTuesday, December 4, 2012
2012 NFL Power Rankings
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-Digger's Daily-
Another exciting NFL weekend is in the books. It's been a wild ride for most teams during another anything can happen season. Atlanta, Denver & New England won their divisions. Houston clinched a playoff birth. There's a mad dash going on for the remaining playoff slots and division titles with four regular season games left to go.
In Week 13 action: RGIII led Washington to a huge one point victory over division leading Giants, 17-16, to pull within a game of the division lead. Dallas kept their hopes alive knocking off woeful Philadelphia 38-33. Green Bay beat Minnesota and tied Chicago for NFC North lead after the Bears were stunned in OT by Seattle. Pittsburgh was short handed but managed to win against division rival Ravens. Look out, here come the Colts - AFC's top wild card team. (View Playoff race HERE)
Time for All World All Sports NFL Power Rankings reflectings games played through Week 13. Get ready for an exciting December of NFL games.
-Digger's Daily-
Another exciting NFL weekend is in the books. It's been a wild ride for most teams during another anything can happen season. Atlanta, Denver & New England won their divisions. Houston clinched a playoff birth. There's a mad dash going on for the remaining playoff slots and division titles with four regular season games left to go.
In Week 13 action: RGIII led Washington to a huge one point victory over division leading Giants, 17-16, to pull within a game of the division lead. Dallas kept their hopes alive knocking off woeful Philadelphia 38-33. Green Bay beat Minnesota and tied Chicago for NFC North lead after the Bears were stunned in OT by Seattle. Pittsburgh was short handed but managed to win against division rival Ravens. Look out, here come the Colts - AFC's top wild card team. (View Playoff race HERE)
Time for All World All Sports NFL Power Rankings reflectings games played through Week 13. Get ready for an exciting December of NFL games.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
2012 NFL Report Cards: AFC
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Move over Cowboys. There's a new sheriff in Texas. The Houston Texans (10-1) have many believing they're ready to challenge for Super Bowl glory. Their tenacious play earns top billing as one of AFC's best. Winning the AFC Championship will not be easy with Baltimore (9-2), New England (8-3) and rejuvinated Denver (8-3) all getting stronger.
AFC sporting plenty of MVP candidates: Tom Brady (NE), Peyton Manning (Den), Matt Schaub (Hou), Andy Dalton (Cin), Andrew Luck (Ind), A.J. Green (Cin), Reggie Wayne (Ind), Andre Johnson (Hou) and J.J. Watt (Hou).
All World All Sports AFC report card...
-Digger's Daily-
Move over Cowboys. There's a new sheriff in Texas. The Houston Texans (10-1) have many believing they're ready to challenge for Super Bowl glory. Their tenacious play earns top billing as one of AFC's best. Winning the AFC Championship will not be easy with Baltimore (9-2), New England (8-3) and rejuvinated Denver (8-3) all getting stronger.
AFC sporting plenty of MVP candidates: Tom Brady (NE), Peyton Manning (Den), Matt Schaub (Hou), Andy Dalton (Cin), Andrew Luck (Ind), A.J. Green (Cin), Reggie Wayne (Ind), Andre Johnson (Hou) and J.J. Watt (Hou).
All World All Sports AFC report card...
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Friday, November 30, 2012
2012 NFL Report Cards: NFC
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
When will the Atlanta Falcons (11-1) start earning respect from national media? This team is for real. Perhaps things will change after beating up New Orleans and ending Drew Brees 54 game touchdown streak record last night on Thursday Night Football.
2012 NFL is now entering the final month of regular season play. The playoff picture remains wide open for some, a lock for a select few, and a dismal reminder of what could have been for others.
MVP honors are up for grabs. It's a wide open field with plenty of candidates. A few players to keep an eye on: Matt Ryan (Atl), Aaron Rodgers (GB), Adrian Peterson (Min), Robert Griffin III (Was), Josh Freeman (TB), Brandon Marshall (Chi) and Aldon Smith (SF).
All World All Sports assembled our first ever NFL team by team report card compiled from 11 games played based on Digger's personal rating system.
Stay tuned for AFC report cards...
-Digger's Daily-
When will the Atlanta Falcons (11-1) start earning respect from national media? This team is for real. Perhaps things will change after beating up New Orleans and ending Drew Brees 54 game touchdown streak record last night on Thursday Night Football.
2012 NFL is now entering the final month of regular season play. The playoff picture remains wide open for some, a lock for a select few, and a dismal reminder of what could have been for others.
MVP honors are up for grabs. It's a wide open field with plenty of candidates. A few players to keep an eye on: Matt Ryan (Atl), Aaron Rodgers (GB), Adrian Peterson (Min), Robert Griffin III (Was), Josh Freeman (TB), Brandon Marshall (Chi) and Aldon Smith (SF).
All World All Sports assembled our first ever NFL team by team report card compiled from 11 games played based on Digger's personal rating system.
| Team | W-L | Coach | Offense | Defense | Special Teams | Chemistry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NFC East | ||||||
| NFC North | ||||||
| NFC South | ||||||
| NFC West | ||||||
Stay tuned for AFC report cards...
Thursday, November 29, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 13
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Week 12 netted 10 correct selections. A quick few notables from last weekend...
... Eagles fans want Coach Andy Reid gone.
... Giants looked Super vs Green Bay. A huge bounceback victory.
... Fireman Ed quits (Jets).
... Eli Manning sets Giants TD passing record.
... Peyton Manning 149th win becomes NFL's all time #2 behind Favre (186).
... Houston (AFC) & Atlanta (NFC) own conference best records, 10-1.
Digger's Week 13 crystal ball predictions... (home in CAPS).
THURSDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
Season total 113-63 (64.2%)
-Digger's Daily-
Week 12 netted 10 correct selections. A quick few notables from last weekend...
... Eagles fans want Coach Andy Reid gone.
... Giants looked Super vs Green Bay. A huge bounceback victory.
... Fireman Ed quits (Jets).
... Eli Manning sets Giants TD passing record.
... Peyton Manning 149th win becomes NFL's all time #2 behind Favre (186).
... Houston (AFC) & Atlanta (NFC) own conference best records, 10-1.
Digger's Week 13 crystal ball predictions... (home in CAPS).
THURSDAY
| FALCONS 33 | Saints 27 |
SUNDAY
| BILLS 28 | Jaguars 24 |
| BEARS 24 | Seahawks 14 |
| 49ers 28 | RAMS 9 |
| Patriots 33 | DOLPHINS 17 |
| Cardinals 23 | JETS 17 |
| Colts 30 | LIONS 24 |
| PACKERS 35 | Vikings 20 |
| Texans 38 | TITANS 13 |
| Panthers 24 | CHIEFS 14 |
| BRONCOS 28 | Bucs 20 |
| Browns 17 | RAIDERS 13 |
| Bengals 31 | CHARGERS 21 |
| RAVENS 27 | Steelers 3 |
| COWBOYS 36 | Eagles 0 |
MONDAY
| Giants 34 | REDSKINS 33 |
Season total 113-63 (64.2%)
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 12
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Happy Thanksgiving America! Three great NFL games to help pass time while celebrating. Texans in Detroit kicks off the day followed by hated rivals (Washington @ Dallas, New England @ NY Jets).
The playoff picture is beginning to come into focus. Washington (4-6) and Dallas (5-5) share must win situations if they're to catch struggling defending Super Bowl champion Giants (6-4). The Jets (4-6) are just about cooked. They provided fans with false hope after winning their last game. Division leading New England will knock them back to reality.
As for the rest of Week 12 - a few games with huge playoff ramifications coupled with some not so hot games on paper. A few games to keep an eye on....
-Did a week off reset the slumping NY Giants (6-4)? Big test vs Green Bay (7-3).
-Can Minnesota (6-4) knock off division rival Chicago (7-3)?
-Seattle (6-4) playing strong but struggles big time in road games (1-4) plays a Dolphins team struggling to remain relevent.
-49ers D gets a big test in New Orleans.
Digger tore it up in Week 11 posting a season high 13 correct picks out of 14 games. Season total improved to 103-57 (64.3%). Take away replacement ref games and winning percentage skyrockets to 71%. Place your bets. Bye week's are done. Get ready for a full slate of games for the remaining six weeks of regular season NFL action. Here's how Week 12 shakes out... (home in CAPS).
THURSDAY
Texans 38 LIONS 20
Redskins 27 COWBOYS 24
Patriots 41 JETS 3
SUNDAY
BEARS 21 Vikings 17
BENGALS 33 Raiders 17
Steelers 21 BROWNS 14
COLTS 30 Bills 28
Broncos 38 CHIEFS 10
Seahawks 24 DOLPHINS 21
Falcons 28 BUCS 24
Titans 31 JAGUARS 20
Ravens 24 CHARGERS 13
CARDINALS 23 Rams 21
SAINTS 44 49ers 21
GIANTS 31 Packers 27
MONDAY
EAGLES 17 Panthers 14
Stay tuned for team by team report cards.
-Digger's Daily-
Happy Thanksgiving America! Three great NFL games to help pass time while celebrating. Texans in Detroit kicks off the day followed by hated rivals (Washington @ Dallas, New England @ NY Jets).
The playoff picture is beginning to come into focus. Washington (4-6) and Dallas (5-5) share must win situations if they're to catch struggling defending Super Bowl champion Giants (6-4). The Jets (4-6) are just about cooked. They provided fans with false hope after winning their last game. Division leading New England will knock them back to reality.
As for the rest of Week 12 - a few games with huge playoff ramifications coupled with some not so hot games on paper. A few games to keep an eye on....
-Did a week off reset the slumping NY Giants (6-4)? Big test vs Green Bay (7-3).
-Can Minnesota (6-4) knock off division rival Chicago (7-3)?
-Seattle (6-4) playing strong but struggles big time in road games (1-4) plays a Dolphins team struggling to remain relevent.
-49ers D gets a big test in New Orleans.
Digger tore it up in Week 11 posting a season high 13 correct picks out of 14 games. Season total improved to 103-57 (64.3%). Take away replacement ref games and winning percentage skyrockets to 71%. Place your bets. Bye week's are done. Get ready for a full slate of games for the remaining six weeks of regular season NFL action. Here's how Week 12 shakes out... (home in CAPS).
THURSDAY
Texans 38 LIONS 20
Redskins 27 COWBOYS 24
Patriots 41 JETS 3
SUNDAY
BEARS 21 Vikings 17
BENGALS 33 Raiders 17
Steelers 21 BROWNS 14
COLTS 30 Bills 28
Broncos 38 CHIEFS 10
Seahawks 24 DOLPHINS 21
Falcons 28 BUCS 24
Titans 31 JAGUARS 20
Ravens 24 CHARGERS 13
CARDINALS 23 Rams 21
SAINTS 44 49ers 21
GIANTS 31 Packers 27
MONDAY
EAGLES 17 Panthers 14
Stay tuned for team by team report cards.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 11
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
We're on a roll. 10 correct selections last weekend increases Digger's record to 90-56 (62.3%). It was a weekend filled with concussions, turmoil and questions besieging many teams.
Key injuries from the likes of Jay Cutler, Michael Vick and Ben Roethlisberger will keep teams off scrambling to fill in major holes in upcoming games. Turmoil in New York surrounding Giants woes and Jets quarterback controversy. Philadelphia fans are at wits end with head coach Reid.
Big games everywhere this weekend and a needed rest for defending NFL champs (Giants).
THURSDAY
BILLS 31 Dolphins 17
SUNDAY
FALCONS 45 Cardinals 14
COWBOYS 30 Browns 10
Packers 33 LIONS 20
Bengals 27 CHIEFS 9
REDSKINS 21 Eagles 20
Bucs 24 PANTHERS 21
TEXANS 34 Jaguars 17
RAMS 20 Jets 13
Saints 51 RAIDERS 24
BRONCOS 28 Chargers 21
PATRIOTS 35 Colts 23
Ravens 24 STEELERS 6
MONDAY
49ERS 24 Bears 20
Stay tuned for team by team report card.
-Digger's Daily-
We're on a roll. 10 correct selections last weekend increases Digger's record to 90-56 (62.3%). It was a weekend filled with concussions, turmoil and questions besieging many teams.
Key injuries from the likes of Jay Cutler, Michael Vick and Ben Roethlisberger will keep teams off scrambling to fill in major holes in upcoming games. Turmoil in New York surrounding Giants woes and Jets quarterback controversy. Philadelphia fans are at wits end with head coach Reid.
Big games everywhere this weekend and a needed rest for defending NFL champs (Giants).
THURSDAY
BILLS 31 Dolphins 17
SUNDAY
FALCONS 45 Cardinals 14
COWBOYS 30 Browns 10
Packers 33 LIONS 20
Bengals 27 CHIEFS 9
REDSKINS 21 Eagles 20
Bucs 24 PANTHERS 21
TEXANS 34 Jaguars 17
RAMS 20 Jets 13
Saints 51 RAIDERS 24
BRONCOS 28 Chargers 21
PATRIOTS 35 Colts 23
Ravens 24 STEELERS 6
MONDAY
49ERS 24 Bears 20
Stay tuned for team by team report card.
Friday, November 9, 2012
All World All Sports Picks Baseball's Best of 2012
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Next week MLB announces the 2012 award winners. This past baseball season was fantastic from beginning to end. We were treated to great individual and team accomplishments. No hitters, triple crown, sensational rookies and breakout performances. I'm guessing most winners will not be debated - except for one (AL MVP).
MLB announced the 2012 finalists - award winners revealed next week. Here's my take...
AL MVP
Adrian Beltre Solid season by Rangers 3B offensively & defensively. Rangers most consistant player all season long. Was 2004 MVP runner up.
Miguel Cabrera Tigers 3B completed baseball's first Triple Crown since Yaz won in 1967. No player was more valuable to his team.
Robinson Cano Yankees 2B is one of the games best hitters but not so hot with RISP.
Josh Hamilton Here's the paper thin nominee. Hamilton finished with great numbers but it was an up and down season which had management questioning his desire. Surprised he's a finalist.
Mike Trout Rookie Angels sensation garnered a ton of attention after a superb rookie season.
Probably the most contested award of the year. Talking heads seem evenly divided between Cabrera & Trout.
Winner: Miguel Cabrera. MVP award should be given to the player most valuable to his teams success. Let there be no doubt. Tigers would not have won the AL Central without Cabrera. Triple Crown winner did it all season long. Moved from 1B to 3B when Detroit signed Prince Fielder. Hit in the clutch.
NL MVP
Ryan Braun Brewers outfielder won in 2011. One of NL's top players knocked a career high 41 HR.
Chase Headley Break out season for Padres 3B. Career best in most offensive categories.
Andrew McCutchen Hands down winner if voting was conducted at July's end. Not so hot finish doomed Pirates - and his chances of winning.
Yadier Molina Baseball's premier defensive catcher posted career high's in batting. He is one of the games best signal callers. A true MVP. Great clutch performer.
Buster Posey Great comeback season after a devastating injury nearly ended his career. NL's leading hitter with little to no lineup protection propelled Giants to NL West crown.
Winner: Buster Posey. Giants standout performer on one of NL's weakest hitting teams.
AL CY YOUNG
David Price 2010 runner up led AL with 2.56 ERA.
Justin Verlander Can JV pull off back to back awards?
Jered Weaver Began 14-1, finished 20-5.
Winner: Jered Weaver. AL Cy Young is a tossup. Weaver gets our nod even though Verlander seems locked in to win again.
NL CY YOUNG
R.A. Dickey Dickey was Mets MVP. Knuckleballer had a terrific season. Led NL with 230 K.
Gio Gonzalez Led NL with 21 wins and Nats to NL East title.
Clayton Kershaw Defending NL Cy Young winner led NL with 2.53 ERA, 1.023 ERA & 6.7 H/9.
Winner: R.A. Dickey. Dickey is our pick. Don't be surprised if Gio wins.
AL MANAGER
Bob Melvin, A's 94-68
Buck Showalter, Orioles 93-69
Robin Ventura, White Sox 85-77
Winner: Buck Showalter Orioles season stunned baseball. Orioles nearly won powerhouse AL East. Buck deserves much credit creating a winning atmosphere and superb handling of Baltimore's bullpen.
NL MANAGER
Dusty Baker, Reds 97-65
Bruce Bochy, Giants 94-68
Davey Johnson, Nationals 98-64
Winner: Davey Johnson. DJ skippered Washington to baseball's best record. 1st winning season since franchise moved from Montreal after 2004 season.
AL ROOKIE
Yoenis Cespedes, Athletics
Yu Darvish, Rangers
Mike Trout, Angels
Winner: Mike Trout. Led AL in runs scored (129) & stolen bases (49) while playing in only 139 games. Unanimous.
NL ROOKIE
Todd Frazier, Reds
Bryce Harper, Nationals
Wade Miley, Diamondbacks
Winner: Bryce Harper. Miley was a close 2nd in our book. However, Harper seemed to energize the Nats helping them capture the NL East.
-Digger's Daily-
Next week MLB announces the 2012 award winners. This past baseball season was fantastic from beginning to end. We were treated to great individual and team accomplishments. No hitters, triple crown, sensational rookies and breakout performances. I'm guessing most winners will not be debated - except for one (AL MVP).
MLB announced the 2012 finalists - award winners revealed next week. Here's my take...
AL MVP
Adrian Beltre Solid season by Rangers 3B offensively & defensively. Rangers most consistant player all season long. Was 2004 MVP runner up.
Miguel Cabrera Tigers 3B completed baseball's first Triple Crown since Yaz won in 1967. No player was more valuable to his team.
Robinson Cano Yankees 2B is one of the games best hitters but not so hot with RISP.
Josh Hamilton Here's the paper thin nominee. Hamilton finished with great numbers but it was an up and down season which had management questioning his desire. Surprised he's a finalist.
Mike Trout Rookie Angels sensation garnered a ton of attention after a superb rookie season.
Probably the most contested award of the year. Talking heads seem evenly divided between Cabrera & Trout.
Winner: Miguel Cabrera. MVP award should be given to the player most valuable to his teams success. Let there be no doubt. Tigers would not have won the AL Central without Cabrera. Triple Crown winner did it all season long. Moved from 1B to 3B when Detroit signed Prince Fielder. Hit in the clutch.
NL MVP
Ryan Braun Brewers outfielder won in 2011. One of NL's top players knocked a career high 41 HR.
Chase Headley Break out season for Padres 3B. Career best in most offensive categories.
Andrew McCutchen Hands down winner if voting was conducted at July's end. Not so hot finish doomed Pirates - and his chances of winning.
Yadier Molina Baseball's premier defensive catcher posted career high's in batting. He is one of the games best signal callers. A true MVP. Great clutch performer.
Buster Posey Great comeback season after a devastating injury nearly ended his career. NL's leading hitter with little to no lineup protection propelled Giants to NL West crown.
Winner: Buster Posey. Giants standout performer on one of NL's weakest hitting teams.
AL CY YOUNG
David Price 2010 runner up led AL with 2.56 ERA.
Justin Verlander Can JV pull off back to back awards?
Jered Weaver Began 14-1, finished 20-5.
Winner: Jered Weaver. AL Cy Young is a tossup. Weaver gets our nod even though Verlander seems locked in to win again.
NL CY YOUNG
R.A. Dickey Dickey was Mets MVP. Knuckleballer had a terrific season. Led NL with 230 K.
Gio Gonzalez Led NL with 21 wins and Nats to NL East title.
Clayton Kershaw Defending NL Cy Young winner led NL with 2.53 ERA, 1.023 ERA & 6.7 H/9.
Winner: R.A. Dickey. Dickey is our pick. Don't be surprised if Gio wins.
AL MANAGER
Bob Melvin, A's 94-68
Buck Showalter, Orioles 93-69
Robin Ventura, White Sox 85-77
Winner: Buck Showalter Orioles season stunned baseball. Orioles nearly won powerhouse AL East. Buck deserves much credit creating a winning atmosphere and superb handling of Baltimore's bullpen.
NL MANAGER
Dusty Baker, Reds 97-65
Bruce Bochy, Giants 94-68
Davey Johnson, Nationals 98-64
Winner: Davey Johnson. DJ skippered Washington to baseball's best record. 1st winning season since franchise moved from Montreal after 2004 season.
AL ROOKIE
Yoenis Cespedes, Athletics
Yu Darvish, Rangers
Mike Trout, Angels
Winner: Mike Trout. Led AL in runs scored (129) & stolen bases (49) while playing in only 139 games. Unanimous.
NL ROOKIE
Todd Frazier, Reds
Bryce Harper, Nationals
Wade Miley, Diamondbacks
Winner: Bryce Harper. Miley was a close 2nd in our book. However, Harper seemed to energize the Nats helping them capture the NL East.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 10
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Week 9 featured many memorable moments led by Tampa Bay's (4-4) Doug Martin shredding Oakland's (3-5) defense for 241 rushing yards. Atlanta remains undefeated (8-0) after holding off limping Dallas on SNF. Brees keeps adding to his NFL record consecutive TD passing streak. Will New Orleans be the team to take down Atlanta?
Big games on tap for Week 10. Every week could be make or break for underperforming teams and their frenzied coaches. 10-3 in Week 9 brings season total to 80-52.
THURSDAY
Colts 24 JAGUARS 10
SUNDAY
Giants 27 BENGALS 23
DOLPHINS 21 Titans 17
VIKINGS 20 Lions 17
PATRIOTS 30 Bills 14
SAINTS 34 Falcons 28
BUCS 24 Chargers 23
Broncos 30 PANTHERS 16
RAVENS 28 Raiders 24
SEAHAWKS 23 Jets 14
Cowboys 27 EAGLES 21
49ERS 27 Rams 6
BEARS 21 Texans 20
MONDAY
STEELERS 34 Chiefs 10
Bye: Arizona, Cleveland, Green Bay, Washington.
-Digger's Daily-
Week 9 featured many memorable moments led by Tampa Bay's (4-4) Doug Martin shredding Oakland's (3-5) defense for 241 rushing yards. Atlanta remains undefeated (8-0) after holding off limping Dallas on SNF. Brees keeps adding to his NFL record consecutive TD passing streak. Will New Orleans be the team to take down Atlanta?
Big games on tap for Week 10. Every week could be make or break for underperforming teams and their frenzied coaches. 10-3 in Week 9 brings season total to 80-52.
THURSDAY
Colts 24 JAGUARS 10
SUNDAY
Giants 27 BENGALS 23
DOLPHINS 21 Titans 17
VIKINGS 20 Lions 17
PATRIOTS 30 Bills 14
SAINTS 34 Falcons 28
BUCS 24 Chargers 23
Broncos 30 PANTHERS 16
RAVENS 28 Raiders 24
SEAHAWKS 23 Jets 14
Cowboys 27 EAGLES 21
49ERS 27 Rams 6
BEARS 21 Texans 20
MONDAY
STEELERS 34 Chiefs 10
Bye: Arizona, Cleveland, Green Bay, Washington.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 9
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
All World All Sports & Digger would like to extend our deepest sympathies to all those suffering nasty effects from Hurricane Sandy. Many continue to remain in the dark. Some completely wiped out. Please remain patient, safe and seek shelter before our next storm arrives in a couple of days.
Our power came back only a few minutes ago. Hopefully a busy Sunday football schedule serves as a slight distraction from realities of the storm. Only Sunday/Monday predictions since lack of power prevented publication before Thursday's Chargers/Chiefs contest.
8-6 during Week 8 brings season total to 70-49.
SUNDAY (home in CAPS)
Broncos 33 BENGALS 20
Ravens 20 BROWNS 6
PACKERS 42 Cardinals 10
Bears 30 TITANS 14
Dolphins 26 COLTS 23
Panthers 17 REDSKINS 16
Lions 28 JAGUARS 17
TEXANS 30 Bills 10
SEAHAWKS 23 Vikings 21
RAIDERS 24 Bucs 21
GIANTS 27 Steelers 23
FALCONS 36 Cowboys 21
MONDAY
SAINTS 44 Eagles 17
-Digger's Daily-
All World All Sports & Digger would like to extend our deepest sympathies to all those suffering nasty effects from Hurricane Sandy. Many continue to remain in the dark. Some completely wiped out. Please remain patient, safe and seek shelter before our next storm arrives in a couple of days.
Our power came back only a few minutes ago. Hopefully a busy Sunday football schedule serves as a slight distraction from realities of the storm. Only Sunday/Monday predictions since lack of power prevented publication before Thursday's Chargers/Chiefs contest.
8-6 during Week 8 brings season total to 70-49.
SUNDAY (home in CAPS)
Broncos 33 BENGALS 20
Ravens 20 BROWNS 6
PACKERS 42 Cardinals 10
Bears 30 TITANS 14
Dolphins 26 COLTS 23
Panthers 17 REDSKINS 16
Lions 28 JAGUARS 17
TEXANS 30 Bills 10
SEAHAWKS 23 Vikings 21
RAIDERS 24 Bucs 21
GIANTS 27 Steelers 23
FALCONS 36 Cowboys 21
MONDAY
SAINTS 44 Eagles 17
Thursday, October 25, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 8
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Week 7 turned out to be a great bounce-back weekend for my picks. 11 correct out of 13 ups my season total to 62-43. That's a step in the right direction after replacement ref games left me standing at .500 after season's opening three weeks of action.
Last weekend featured thrilling games. Most were determined in the final minutes. Week 8 is important. Division leaders seeking to solidify their hold on top slots. Underperformers attempting to right their ships before they sink. Here we go....
WEEK 8 (home team in CAPS)
THURSDAY
VIKINGS 23 Bucs 17
SUNDAY
BEARS 30 Panthers 17
Chargers 33 BROWNS 10
Seahawks 20 LIONS 17
Patriots 31 RAMS 14
Dolphins 28 JETS 27
Falcons 30 EAGLES 24
Redskins 27 STEELERS 20
PACKERS 45 Jaguars 14
TITANS 17 Colts 13
CHIEFS 20 Raiders 17
Giants 38 COWBOYS 24
BRONCOS 31 Saints 30
MONDAY
49ers 23 CARDINALS 0
Bye: Buffalo, Cincinnati, Baltimore, Houston
-Digger's Daily-
Week 7 turned out to be a great bounce-back weekend for my picks. 11 correct out of 13 ups my season total to 62-43. That's a step in the right direction after replacement ref games left me standing at .500 after season's opening three weeks of action.
Last weekend featured thrilling games. Most were determined in the final minutes. Week 8 is important. Division leaders seeking to solidify their hold on top slots. Underperformers attempting to right their ships before they sink. Here we go....
WEEK 8 (home team in CAPS)
THURSDAY
VIKINGS 23 Bucs 17
SUNDAY
BEARS 30 Panthers 17
Chargers 33 BROWNS 10
Seahawks 20 LIONS 17
Patriots 31 RAMS 14
Dolphins 28 JETS 27
Falcons 30 EAGLES 24
Redskins 27 STEELERS 20
PACKERS 45 Jaguars 14
TITANS 17 Colts 13
CHIEFS 20 Raiders 17
Giants 38 COWBOYS 24
BRONCOS 31 Saints 30
MONDAY
49ers 23 CARDINALS 0
Bye: Buffalo, Cincinnati, Baltimore, Houston
Thursday, October 18, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 7
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
The sky fell on a few teams last week (and, on my selections too). After correctly picking 12 & 11 in back to back weeks - I stunk it up in Week 6 with a staggering 4 of 14. Season total now stands at 51-41.
Plenty of upsets last weekend. Titans dumped Pittsburgh 26-23. Cleveland won their first game, 36-25, over Cincy. Philadelphia gifted an overtime loss to Detroit. Buffalo bounced Arizona in OT. Seattle bested New England 24-23. An early season standings shakeup of epic proportions.
Bounceback wins by Jets, Packers, Broncos, Bills kept playoff hopes alive. Losses would've been difficult to overcome.
Huge divisional matchups on this weekend's slate. NY Jets (3-3) travel to enemy territory New England (3-3). Seattle (4-2) faces off in 49ers (4-2) country in a battle for NFC West supremacy. Giants (4-2) looking for a firmer grip on NFC East hosting Washington (3-3). Struggling Pittsburgh (2-3) in Cincinnati (3-3) trying to keep pace with surging Ravens (5-1) in AFC North. It's win or be gone for Detroit (2-3) visiting NFC North leading Chicago (4-1). AFC's two top teams go head to head in game of the week style action - Baltimore (AFC North, 5-1) @ Houston (AFC South, 5-1).
Can you believe six weeks of 2012 NFL action is written in the books? Time sure does fly by. Remember when only a few weeks ago the football world was turned upside down by replacements refs? Seems like a distant memory now. Time to pick'em.
WEEK 7 (home in CAPS)
THURSDAY
49ERS 16 Seahawks 14
SUNDAY
BILLS 28 Titans 17
GIANTS 34 Redskins 27
Saints 33 BUCS 21
Cowboys 27 PANTHERS 24
Ravens 28 TEXANS 27
COLTS 30 Browns 14
Packers 42 RAMS 10
VIKINGS 23 Cardinals 20
PATRIOTS 27 Jets 3
RAIDERS 17 Jaguars 13
Steelers 26 BENGALS 23
MONDAY
BEARS 27 Lions 20
Bye: Atlanta, Denver, Kansas City, Miami, Philadelphia, San Diego
-Digger's Daily-
The sky fell on a few teams last week (and, on my selections too). After correctly picking 12 & 11 in back to back weeks - I stunk it up in Week 6 with a staggering 4 of 14. Season total now stands at 51-41.
Plenty of upsets last weekend. Titans dumped Pittsburgh 26-23. Cleveland won their first game, 36-25, over Cincy. Philadelphia gifted an overtime loss to Detroit. Buffalo bounced Arizona in OT. Seattle bested New England 24-23. An early season standings shakeup of epic proportions.
Bounceback wins by Jets, Packers, Broncos, Bills kept playoff hopes alive. Losses would've been difficult to overcome.
Huge divisional matchups on this weekend's slate. NY Jets (3-3) travel to enemy territory New England (3-3). Seattle (4-2) faces off in 49ers (4-2) country in a battle for NFC West supremacy. Giants (4-2) looking for a firmer grip on NFC East hosting Washington (3-3). Struggling Pittsburgh (2-3) in Cincinnati (3-3) trying to keep pace with surging Ravens (5-1) in AFC North. It's win or be gone for Detroit (2-3) visiting NFC North leading Chicago (4-1). AFC's two top teams go head to head in game of the week style action - Baltimore (AFC North, 5-1) @ Houston (AFC South, 5-1).
Can you believe six weeks of 2012 NFL action is written in the books? Time sure does fly by. Remember when only a few weeks ago the football world was turned upside down by replacements refs? Seems like a distant memory now. Time to pick'em.
WEEK 7 (home in CAPS)
THURSDAY
49ERS 16 Seahawks 14
SUNDAY
BILLS 28 Titans 17
GIANTS 34 Redskins 27
Saints 33 BUCS 21
Cowboys 27 PANTHERS 24
Ravens 28 TEXANS 27
COLTS 30 Browns 14
Packers 42 RAMS 10
VIKINGS 23 Cardinals 20
PATRIOTS 27 Jets 3
RAIDERS 17 Jaguars 13
Steelers 26 BENGALS 23
MONDAY
BEARS 27 Lions 20
Bye: Atlanta, Denver, Kansas City, Miami, Philadelphia, San Diego
Saturday, October 13, 2012
2012 NFL Predictions: Week 6
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Weekly-
And then there two. Atlanta & Houston are the last undefeated teams. Games of the week on paper: banged up Giants @ 49ers... Packers in a must win situation in Houston... Denver battles for first place vs San Diego.
THURSDAY
Steelers 27 TITANS 17
SUNDAY
FALCONS 34 Raiders 10
Bengals 28 BROWNS 7
DOLPHINS 24 Rams 21
Colts 28 JETS 21
EAGLES 27 Lions 10
RAVENS 30 Cowboys 17
Chiefs 21 BUCS 20
CARDINALS 26 Bills 21
Patriots 33 SEAHAWKS 14
Giants 31 49ERS 20
Vikings 23 REDSKINS 20
TEXANS 27 Packers 24
MONDAY
Broncos 31 CHARGERS 28
Byes: Carolina, Chicago, Jacksonville, New Orleans
-Digger's Weekly-
And then there two. Atlanta & Houston are the last undefeated teams. Games of the week on paper: banged up Giants @ 49ers... Packers in a must win situation in Houston... Denver battles for first place vs San Diego.
THURSDAY
Steelers 27 TITANS 17
SUNDAY
FALCONS 34 Raiders 10
Bengals 28 BROWNS 7
DOLPHINS 24 Rams 21
Colts 28 JETS 21
EAGLES 27 Lions 10
RAVENS 30 Cowboys 17
Chiefs 21 BUCS 20
CARDINALS 26 Bills 21
Patriots 33 SEAHAWKS 14
Giants 31 49ERS 20
Vikings 23 REDSKINS 20
TEXANS 27 Packers 24
MONDAY
Broncos 31 CHARGERS 28
Byes: Carolina, Chicago, Jacksonville, New Orleans
Saturday, October 6, 2012
2012 Baseball Playoff Preview - Division Series
Visit "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Weekly-
Sloppy was the operative word in Wild Card playoffs. Seven errors committed in do or die games. Chipper Jones final game did not play out well. One of baseball's all time greats suffered through one of his worst against the defending champion Cardinals.
Now it's time for the Divisional Series. I'm really against how best record teams are visitors in the first two games in a best of five. Ridiculous! This is clearly a home field disadvantage! This should be a 2-2-1 format. How could MLB get this so wrong? MLB claims they'll get it right next year. Yeah, thanks.
Thrilling matchups await. Red hot Oakland (vs Detroit) and Baltimore (vs New York) set out to prove their seasons are not flukes. Nationals go after champion Cardinals while the Reds take on San Francisco. Get ready for plenty of excitement.
American League
Oakland A's (94-68) vs Detroit Tigers (88-74)
1) Jarred Parker (13-8, 3.47) vs Justin Verlander (17-8, 2.64) Edge Tigers
2) Tommy Milone (13-10, 3.74) vs Doug Fister (10-10, 3.45) Edge A's
3) Brett Anderson (4-2, 2.57) vs Anibal Sanchez (4-6, 3.74) Edge Even
4) A.J. Griffin (7-1, 3.06) vs Max Scherzer(16-7, 3.74) Edge Even.
Oakland is red hot and in playoff baseball this is a very significant factor. Hot or not, beating Justin Verlander twice in a short series is highly unlikely. Nonetheless, the A's are 57-26 in their past 83 contests. They've won 6 in a row and 8 of 9. Timely hitting is leading the way. Oakland is riding a wave. For how long?
AL Central champion Detroit sports a fearsome 3-4 punch of Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder. The Tigers attack is capable of big outbursts. However, except for Miguel & Prince, they're a streaky bunch.
Prediction: A's in 4
New York Yankees (95-67) vs Baltimore Orioles (93-69)
How far can the Orioles go. There's no way I believed Saunders (0-6 in Arlington) was going to shut down the mighty Rangers attack last night. He proved me wrong. Will Baltimore stun me once again?
These two split their season series 9-9 and were tied for the AL East lead after 159 games.
Rotation matchups haven't been announced other than CC Sabathia starting Game 1 for New York. Edge Yankees. Most likely Kuroda takes the mound in Game 2 giving NY another advantage in the starting pitcher category.
This has the potential to become an explosive high run scoring series. Both play in hitters parks and pack plenty of lineup power. On paper, Yankees probably hold an advantage. In reality, Baltimore's timely hitting has been second to none lately. Orioles bullpen nearly unhittable. Yanks bullpen prone to gaffes.
Prediction: As a New Yorker, I'm saying Yankees in 5. Reality is telling me Baltimore in 4. We'll soon find out.
National League
Cincinnati Reds (97-65) vs San Francisco Giants(94-68)
1) Johnny Cueto (19-9, 2.78) vs Matt Cain (16-5, 2.79) Edge Even
2) Bronson Arroyo (13-10, 3.74) vs Madison Bumgarner (16-11, 3.37) Edge Even
3) Mat Latos (14-4, 3.48) vs Tim Lincecum (10-15, 5.18) Edge Reds
No room for mistakes on defense. None. Timely hitting will be the difference in wins vs losses. A single run could determine games against top rated pitching. Cueto vs Cain is championship calibur matchup.
Prediction: Both teams playing well of late. Cincinnati is my sentimental pick. Had this series opened in Cincy, I'd say Reds hands down. Don't count out the Giants. Reds in 4.
Washington Nationals (98-64) vs St. Louis Cardinals (88-74)
This is about the time when everyone scratches their heads and screams at Washington's front office for keeping their best hurler intentionally shelved. This could haunt them for years to come.
1) Gio Gonzalex (21-8, 2.89) vs Adam Wainwright (14-13, 3.94) Edge Nats
2) Jordan Zimmerman (12-8, 2.94) vs Jaime Garcia (7-7, 3.92) Edge Nats
Nationals yet to name starters for games 3 & 4. Cards intend to send Cris Carpenter and Kyle Lohse.
Washington need to play top notch baseball against a Cardinals team which seems to find ways to win when all hope seems gone. St. Louis played from behind in much of the 2011 post-season. Never count these guys out.
Washington's spirited attack has all essentials to knock off the defending champs... except one. No experienced big game players on this youthful roster and their most devastating pitcher isn't playing. Cardinals always seem to find a way in playoff baseball.
Prediction: Cardinals in 5.
-Digger's Weekly-
Sloppy was the operative word in Wild Card playoffs. Seven errors committed in do or die games. Chipper Jones final game did not play out well. One of baseball's all time greats suffered through one of his worst against the defending champion Cardinals.
Now it's time for the Divisional Series. I'm really against how best record teams are visitors in the first two games in a best of five. Ridiculous! This is clearly a home field disadvantage! This should be a 2-2-1 format. How could MLB get this so wrong? MLB claims they'll get it right next year. Yeah, thanks.
Thrilling matchups await. Red hot Oakland (vs Detroit) and Baltimore (vs New York) set out to prove their seasons are not flukes. Nationals go after champion Cardinals while the Reds take on San Francisco. Get ready for plenty of excitement.
American League
Oakland A's (94-68) vs Detroit Tigers (88-74)
1) Jarred Parker (13-8, 3.47) vs Justin Verlander (17-8, 2.64) Edge Tigers
2) Tommy Milone (13-10, 3.74) vs Doug Fister (10-10, 3.45) Edge A's
3) Brett Anderson (4-2, 2.57) vs Anibal Sanchez (4-6, 3.74) Edge Even
4) A.J. Griffin (7-1, 3.06) vs Max Scherzer(16-7, 3.74) Edge Even.
Oakland is red hot and in playoff baseball this is a very significant factor. Hot or not, beating Justin Verlander twice in a short series is highly unlikely. Nonetheless, the A's are 57-26 in their past 83 contests. They've won 6 in a row and 8 of 9. Timely hitting is leading the way. Oakland is riding a wave. For how long?
AL Central champion Detroit sports a fearsome 3-4 punch of Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder. The Tigers attack is capable of big outbursts. However, except for Miguel & Prince, they're a streaky bunch.
Prediction: A's in 4
New York Yankees (95-67) vs Baltimore Orioles (93-69)
How far can the Orioles go. There's no way I believed Saunders (0-6 in Arlington) was going to shut down the mighty Rangers attack last night. He proved me wrong. Will Baltimore stun me once again?
These two split their season series 9-9 and were tied for the AL East lead after 159 games.
Rotation matchups haven't been announced other than CC Sabathia starting Game 1 for New York. Edge Yankees. Most likely Kuroda takes the mound in Game 2 giving NY another advantage in the starting pitcher category.
This has the potential to become an explosive high run scoring series. Both play in hitters parks and pack plenty of lineup power. On paper, Yankees probably hold an advantage. In reality, Baltimore's timely hitting has been second to none lately. Orioles bullpen nearly unhittable. Yanks bullpen prone to gaffes.
Prediction: As a New Yorker, I'm saying Yankees in 5. Reality is telling me Baltimore in 4. We'll soon find out.
National League
Cincinnati Reds (97-65) vs San Francisco Giants(94-68)
1) Johnny Cueto (19-9, 2.78) vs Matt Cain (16-5, 2.79) Edge Even
2) Bronson Arroyo (13-10, 3.74) vs Madison Bumgarner (16-11, 3.37) Edge Even
3) Mat Latos (14-4, 3.48) vs Tim Lincecum (10-15, 5.18) Edge Reds
No room for mistakes on defense. None. Timely hitting will be the difference in wins vs losses. A single run could determine games against top rated pitching. Cueto vs Cain is championship calibur matchup.
Prediction: Both teams playing well of late. Cincinnati is my sentimental pick. Had this series opened in Cincy, I'd say Reds hands down. Don't count out the Giants. Reds in 4.
Washington Nationals (98-64) vs St. Louis Cardinals (88-74)
This is about the time when everyone scratches their heads and screams at Washington's front office for keeping their best hurler intentionally shelved. This could haunt them for years to come.
1) Gio Gonzalex (21-8, 2.89) vs Adam Wainwright (14-13, 3.94) Edge Nats
2) Jordan Zimmerman (12-8, 2.94) vs Jaime Garcia (7-7, 3.92) Edge Nats
Nationals yet to name starters for games 3 & 4. Cards intend to send Cris Carpenter and Kyle Lohse.
Washington need to play top notch baseball against a Cardinals team which seems to find ways to win when all hope seems gone. St. Louis played from behind in much of the 2011 post-season. Never count these guys out.
Washington's spirited attack has all essentials to knock off the defending champs... except one. No experienced big game players on this youthful roster and their most devastating pitcher isn't playing. Cardinals always seem to find a way in playoff baseball.
Prediction: Cardinals in 5.
Friday, October 5, 2012
2012 Baseball Playoff Preview - Wild Card
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-Digger's Weekly-
Another great Major League Baseball season went right down to the wire. Division leaders, Wild Card teams and batting leaders weren't determined until the final pitch of regular season baseball (stay tuned for our 2012 MLB recap).
Now it's time to play for all the marbles, with a new twist. 2012 playoffs feature an extra Wild Card team from both leagues (NL/AL now has 2 WC teams). The two Wild Card teams face off today in a one game sudden death type game to see who advances to play division winners.
National League
Tremendous matchup. Atlanta Braves(94-68) trot Kris Medlen (10-1, 1.57) to the hill. Atlanta has won Medlen's last 23 starts. Wow! He'll need to be at his best when taking on the defending champion St. Louis Cardinals (88-74) and Cy Young candidate Kyle Lohse (16-3, 2.86).
Everyone remembers Cardinals clutch hits from last season's playoffs. They neared elimination time and time again. They came thru with clutch hit after clutch hit time and time again. Atlanta players aren't strangers to playoff baseball either led by future Hall of Fame 3B Chipper Jones.
Prediction: Medlen's hot. Don't be surprised to watch him dominate today. Then again, don't count on it. The Cardinals have proven their clutch abilities too many times for me to count them out. World Series MVP David Freese comes to life in playoff action. Perhaps there's no better clutch hitter in Cardinals playoff history than NL MVP candiate Yadier Molina.
Final score: Cardinals 5 Braves 3.
American League
Two teams in opposite directions?
Buck Showalter's guided baseball's surprise team of the year. Baltimore Orioles (93-69) nearly won the AL East. Baltimore's timely offense capitalizes on opponents mistakes. Hitters were red hot until losing final two against pitching rich Tampa Bay. O's offense will need to catch fire from the opening pitch against one of baseball's most potent offenses.
Texas Rangers (93-69) took over first place in AL West with a 3-1 record on April 9. They maintained a two game lead after game 159 and flew off to Oakland for the final three games of the season. Oakland blew them out including an embarrassing 12-5 defeat to lose the division on game 162. Needless to say... Texas is backing into playoff action losers in 7 of final 9.
Baltimore's John Saunders (3-3, 3.63) is the wrong choice for a starting pitcher in a do or die game. I believe it to be the worst choice I can remember, ever! Saunders (former LA Angel) career numbers vs Texas stink. There's no way around it. Rangers hitters combined for .350 BA, .675 SLG and .410 OBA. Trouble brewing before the first pitch is thrown.
Texas marches Yu Darvish (16-9, 3.90) to the hill. Yu was 10-2 in Arlington. Good luck Baltimore.
Prediction: O's bullpen better be ready to go early. Buck, Saunders is the wrong guy today. Texas has stumbled lately in all aspects. Saunders is the perfect pitcher to snap a cold spell against.
Final score: Rangers 12 Orioles 2
-Digger's Weekly-
Another great Major League Baseball season went right down to the wire. Division leaders, Wild Card teams and batting leaders weren't determined until the final pitch of regular season baseball (stay tuned for our 2012 MLB recap).
Now it's time to play for all the marbles, with a new twist. 2012 playoffs feature an extra Wild Card team from both leagues (NL/AL now has 2 WC teams). The two Wild Card teams face off today in a one game sudden death type game to see who advances to play division winners.
National League
Tremendous matchup. Atlanta Braves(94-68) trot Kris Medlen (10-1, 1.57) to the hill. Atlanta has won Medlen's last 23 starts. Wow! He'll need to be at his best when taking on the defending champion St. Louis Cardinals (88-74) and Cy Young candidate Kyle Lohse (16-3, 2.86).
Everyone remembers Cardinals clutch hits from last season's playoffs. They neared elimination time and time again. They came thru with clutch hit after clutch hit time and time again. Atlanta players aren't strangers to playoff baseball either led by future Hall of Fame 3B Chipper Jones.
Prediction: Medlen's hot. Don't be surprised to watch him dominate today. Then again, don't count on it. The Cardinals have proven their clutch abilities too many times for me to count them out. World Series MVP David Freese comes to life in playoff action. Perhaps there's no better clutch hitter in Cardinals playoff history than NL MVP candiate Yadier Molina.
Final score: Cardinals 5 Braves 3.
American League
Two teams in opposite directions?
Buck Showalter's guided baseball's surprise team of the year. Baltimore Orioles (93-69) nearly won the AL East. Baltimore's timely offense capitalizes on opponents mistakes. Hitters were red hot until losing final two against pitching rich Tampa Bay. O's offense will need to catch fire from the opening pitch against one of baseball's most potent offenses.
Texas Rangers (93-69) took over first place in AL West with a 3-1 record on April 9. They maintained a two game lead after game 159 and flew off to Oakland for the final three games of the season. Oakland blew them out including an embarrassing 12-5 defeat to lose the division on game 162. Needless to say... Texas is backing into playoff action losers in 7 of final 9.
Baltimore's John Saunders (3-3, 3.63) is the wrong choice for a starting pitcher in a do or die game. I believe it to be the worst choice I can remember, ever! Saunders (former LA Angel) career numbers vs Texas stink. There's no way around it. Rangers hitters combined for .350 BA, .675 SLG and .410 OBA. Trouble brewing before the first pitch is thrown.
Texas marches Yu Darvish (16-9, 3.90) to the hill. Yu was 10-2 in Arlington. Good luck Baltimore.
Prediction: O's bullpen better be ready to go early. Buck, Saunders is the wrong guy today. Texas has stumbled lately in all aspects. Saunders is the perfect pitcher to snap a cold spell against.
Final score: Rangers 12 Orioles 2
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