The Athletes of 2015

The Athletes of 2015

The Best

Stephen Curry - Curry has had an eventful 2015. The Warriors defeated the Cavaliers in June to win the NBA title. Curry was the League MVP. Curry then led the Warriors to a 28-0 record to start the season.

Tom Brady - Brady won his fourth Super Bowl ring in February and was the games MVP. Later that year he was suspended for his role in Deflategate. Brady would appeal and win his suspension. On opening night he would carve up the Steelers with four touchdowns. He is an MVP candidate and the Patriots sit at 12-3.

Bryce Harper - Harper had his best pro season in 2015. Harper at just 22 for most of the season hit 330 with 42 home runs and 99 RBI. Harper was named NL MVP and to his 3rd all star team in four years.

Floyd Mayweather Jr - Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao would finally square off in the super fight everyone wanted to see. Mayweather beat Pacquiao in a unanimous decision to move to 48-0. He would then defeat Andre Berto to move to 49-0. He says that he is going to retire but who knows what the future holds for Floyd.

The Comeback

Alex Rodriguez - Suspended for all of 2014 , 39 years old , many thought Alex Rodriguez was finished. He however was not. Rodriguez would comeback to hit 33 home runs and lead he Yankees to the wild card game. Rodriguez would reach many personal milestones such as passing Willie Mays on the home run list , getting his 3,000th hit , and moving to second on the all time RBI list.

Ryan Fitzpatrick - Fitzpatrick was brought in by the Jets to be the backup Quarterback. However after Geno Smith was involved in a incident Fitzpatrick would take over the team. With a win on Sunday Fitzpatrick will have the Jets in the Super Bowl.

The Clutch

Andre Iguodala - The Warriors won the NBA title and Iguodala was the Finals MVP. He did most of his work coming off the bench for the Warriors a new role for the veteran.

Wade Davis - The Royals won the World Series and veteran fire throwing closer Wade Davis was lights out at the end of games. Davis was able to shut down the Astros , Royals , and Mets throughout the playoffs. Davis emerged as baseballs best closer when it meant the most. He pitched to a zero era in the playoffs.

Patrick Kane - Kane was one of the NHL's most dominating players on one of the best teams in the league. The MVP candidate led the Blackhawks to the Stanley Cup finals and they would eventually
win the Cup.

Daniel Murphy - The Mets made there historic run to the World Series and Daniel Murphy made history hitting home runs. He hit home runs in 6 straight games.

The Most Entertaining

Cam Newton - The Panthers are 14-1 and Newton may be the NFL MVP. Newton has done everything from rush for 100 yards to pass for five touchdowns.

Odell Beckham Jr - The most explosive receiver in the NFL , Beckham has been better in his second year with Eli Manning.

Lebron James - Any time Lebron James is on the court it is big news. James led the Cavaliers to the finals in his first year back. James received MVP votes in the finals despite his team losing. He did
everything and kept the Cavs in it basically by himself.

Alex Rodriguez - No one gets the attention like A-Rod good or bad. He was a fixture and a comeback story in 2015. Rodriguez hit 33 home runs in his comeback season and even did work as a Baseball analysis for Fox in the playoffs.

Rob Gronkoswki - Gronkowski is by far footballs best tight end. Every week he does something special. Gronk has caught 11 touchdown passes this season.

Bryce Harper - Harper blasted 42 home runs and hit 330 at just 22 years old. Harper didn't turn 23
until October. He played great defense and the best offense which led him to the MVP.



The Rookies

Andrew Wiggins - Wiggins put the Timberwolves back on the map in his first season and is only getting better in his second season. He looks like a future MVP.

Todd Gurley - Gurley has emerged as one of the best running backs in football. He has 1108 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Jameis Winston - Winston has proved to be a franchise Quarterback right out of the gate.

Carlos Correa - Correa dominated with the bat and the glove as the AL Rookie of the Year. Correa led the Astros to the playoffs as a rookie shortstop.

Kris Bryant - The Cubs finally promoted the slugger rookie third basemen and they made a deep playoff run. Bryant was the NL Rookie of the Year.


Performances

Drew Brees and Eli Manning would go head to head in one of the best QB duels of all time. Manning would throw 6 touchdowns and Brees 7. The Saints beat the Giants by a field goal.

Jose Bautista would hit a go ahead playoff home run against the Rangers in game 5 of the ALDS. His
 bat flip was more impressive than the home run.


Holly Holms was given no shot to beat Ronda Rousey but knocked her out to win the title.

Kobe Bryant calls it a career after the season and the Celtics fans cheered their long time enemy the other night in his final game in Boston.

Roberta Vinci would defeat Serena Williams in the US open ruining Williams' Grand Slam chances.

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

2015 Year in Sports Through Pictures

2015: The Year in Sports

January

The Cowboys beat the Lions in the playoffs after a controversial flag is picked up. The play should have been called on the Cowboys but was not. The Cowboys would then lose to the Packers after Dez Bryant couldn't complete a catch according to the Calvin Johnson rule.

Ohio State would crush Oregon and win the College Football NCAA National Championship.

The Patriots would destroy the Colts in the AFC championship game however the Colts would complain that the Patriots used under inflated balls. An investigation would occur. Deflategate was born.

Chicago Cubs Baseball legend Ernie Banks dies at age 83.

ESPN Sports Anchor Stuart Scott passes away at  age 49 after his battle with cancer.

February

The New England Patriots win the Super Bowl defeating the Seattle Seahawks. Tom Brady was the games MVP. Julian Edelman had the winning score and Malcom Butler the game saving interception.

 Ed Sabol passes away at age 98. Sabol was best known for his NFL films.

Former Knick Anthony Mason dies at age 49.

Legendary college basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian died at the age of 84.

Josh Hamilton suffers a drug relapse and the Angels want no part of him. Hamilton isn't suspended.

March

Texas fires long time coach Rich Barnes.

Alex Rodriguez singles in his first at bat back from his 2014 suspension in a Spring Training game.

MLB legend Minnie Minoso dies at age 90.

The March Madness tournament kicks off in men's college basketball. Kentucky is the clear favorite to win the title.

April

Duke wins the National title defeating Wisconsin. Kentucky doesn't even make the title game after being clear favorites.

Alex Rodriguez makes his retain to baseball and his return to the Yankees. The fans welcome him back.

UCONN wins the woman's NCCAA national championship.

The Orioles play a home game with no crowd due to the Freddie Gray riots

Aaron Hernandez is found guilty of murder and gets life in prison.

Jordan Spieth wins the Masters.

The Angels trade Josh Hamilton back to the Texas Rangers.

Jameis Winston is drafted number one overall by the Buccaneers in the NFL draft.

Golf legend Calvin Peete dies at age 71.

May

Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao finally meet in the battle of the two best boxers of the generation. Mayweather handily beats Pacquiao.

Alex Rodriguez passes Willie Mays on the all time home run list.

Chelsea wins Soccers premier league.

Tennis legend Doris Hart dies at age 89.

June

Tom Brady appeals his suspension for his role in Deflategate Gate after getting a four game ban.

Sepp Blatter ends his 17 year FIFA reign after a police probe in NYC.

American Pharaoh wins The Triple Crown.

Alex Rodriguez hits a home run at Yankee Stadium for his 3,000th hit.

Barcelona wins the Championship league led by Lionel Messi.

The Blackhawks win the NHL Stanley Cup.

The Warriors win the NBA title.

Vanderbilt wins the NCAA College Baseball title.

Dansby Swanson is drafted first overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks.

WWE legend Dusty Rhodes passes away

July

NFL legend Ken Stabler passes away at age 69.

WWE legend Rowdy Roddy Piper dies.

Jason Pierre Paul blows off his index finger playing with fire works on Fourth of July.

The USA Women's soccer team wins the World Cup.

The American League wins the MLB All Star Game. MLB fans voted on the greatest living players and Pete Rose and other Reds retuned to Cincinnati.

August

Geno Smith is punched in the face by his own teammate IK Enemkpali and has to get surgery. The Jets would turn to veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick who would never give back the job.

Patrick Kane is accused of sexual assault and eventually wins his case.

NASCAR Legend Buddy Baker dies at age 74.

NFL legend Frank Gifford dies at age 84.

September

A Judge overturns Tom Brady's four game suspension for his role in Deflategate. Brady throws four touchdowns on opening night against the Steelers.

Roberta Vinci defeats Serena Williams in a huge upset in the US Open.

The Nationals are eliminated from MLB postseason contention , many peoples World Series favorite. Jonathan Papelbon chokes Bryce Harper in a dugout fight.

The New York Mets win the NL East.

The Houston Astros reach the playoffs.

MLB And US legend Yogi Berra passes away at age 90.

Former NBA star Moses Malone dies at age 60

Tom Brady throws his 400th career touchdown.

David Ortiz hits his 500th home run.

October

Max Scherzer throws his second no hitter of the season.

Alex Rodriguez finishes the season with 33 home runs and the Yankees win the Wild Card. CC Sabathia checks into alcohol rehab right before the game.

Jose Bautista hits a dramatic playoff home run against the Rangers and does a dramatic bat flip.

The Mets defeat the Dodgers and Cubs and reach the World Series.

The Patriots , Panthers , and Broncos all start undefeated and dominate the NFL.

NBA coach Flip Saunders dies at age 60.

Steve Spurrier retries midway through the College Football season.

Lamar Odom overdoses in a brothel.

November

The Royals defeat the Mets in the World Series.

Eli Manning passes Joe Montana on the NFL Touchdown List.

Drew Brees and Eli Manning combine for 13 touchdown in a single game. Brees had 7 and Manning
6.

Holly Holms knocks out Ronda Rousey.

Kobe Bryant announces he will retire after the season.

David Ortiz announces he will retire after the 2016 season.

Peyton Manning breaks the NFL passing yardage all time record. He would get benched in the very same game. He would later reveal multiple injuries.

MLB pitcher Tommy Hanson dies at age 29.

December

Hockey great Dickie Moore dies at age 84.

A report comes out linking Peyton Manning , Clay Matthews ,  Ryan Howard  and other to an HGH clinic. Manning denies the allegations and threatens to sue over the issue.

Warriors lose ending their winning streak at 28 games.

Charles Woodson plays his final home game in the NFL.

The Raiders and Chargers play their final home games before potentially being relocated.

The Falcons defeat the Panthers ending their bid at a perfect season.

The Diamondbacks sign Zack Greinke. They also trade number one pick Dansby Swanson.

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

The League : Fantasy Footballs Best Comedy

The League may not be Fantasy Footballs last comedy that's ever made but it was certainly the first. There is no question that it will always be the best. The Fantasy Sports industry has blown up over the years and The League on FXX was along for the ride. It's hard to stay on tv for seven years with a show topic of fantasy football but the league had no problem doing so. The League will always have a lasting impact on the Fantasy Football world , the sports world , and the comedy world. Husband and wife Jeff and Jackie Schaffer are to thank for this classic comedy.
On Wednesday night the League had its final episode after seven unbelievable years. The show had actors and actresses we may not have known seven years ago but now we have come to know and love. The creators were not even sure how long the show would last and seven years later it ends with an epic send off.

The show stars Nick Kroll , Mark Duplass , Katie Aselton , Jon Lajoie , Stephen Rannazzisi and Paul Scheer. Jason Mantzoukas as it's most common guest star. You will never see a cast so close and so on point. A cast that didn't know much about each other that became as close as a cast as can be. You will learn a lot from watching the League. You will learn how to do your league and you will certainly learn how to make your league better. You will certainly learn how to sh*t talk. The cast members became great friends doing the show and by the second season you can see the dynamic they had together.

The League main characters named Jenny , Pete , Kevin , Andre , Ruxin and Taco were the stars of the show however their was some great characters that had part time roles as well. We were introduced to Ted , Russell , Shiva , Trixie , Dirty Randy , Sophia , Meegan , and of course Rafi some people's favorite. Rafi was one of the craziest and most vile characters on tv and was great for the show. The League has been blessed to have some stars on the show such as JJ Watt , Adrian Peterson , Randall Cobb , Jason Witten , Brooklyn Decker , Sarah Silverman , Matthew Berry and so many others.

The League will have a lasting impact on its fans , on tv , on comedy but most important fantasy football. The League is one of the funniest shows on tv and transcended the way we smack talk our friends.

Whenever you hear terms like Three Penis Wine , Vinegar Strokes , rosterbating , Shivablasting ,fear Boners  The Sacko , riding on a suck stick , fidelio , forever unclean , Eskimo Brothers , The EBDB and so many others you know where they came from. So thank you to the League as they probably don't even realize how many leagues are named or created after theirs or how many people were inspired to play because of them. Thank you to the wonderful cast members and thank you for all the reruns we can watch forever and ever so we stay un clean. The League always said what was on its mind whether it was raunchy and disgusting and that's what made the show great. It was never about winning the money it was about winning the trophy avoiding the Sacko and of course making fun of your friends and family. The best part about last nights ending is that while the show may have ended the League itself did not. I hope FXX updates us on who wins each year. The show ended as it should making fun of Andre. And of course with a hearty and heartfelt Ruxin SUCK IT !!!! So once again thank you to the League for inspiring so many fantasy leagues whether it's baseball football or whatever. I know you guys inspired mine. I remember talking with some friends watching the show saying we should do this while watching the show. Of course we did it and every year we have our fantasy baseball and football drafts live and in person. So if you've never seen the show check it out because you will have plenty of laughs. Shivakamini Somakandarkram !!!!!!!

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Baseball is Going through Changes Regarding it's Past

Is Baseball Seeing A Changing of the Guards on PED Issues ?

We do not know if players who were involved or admitted to using steroids will ever make the Hall of Fame. One thing however is very clear these players will be involved in the game of baseball. The Miami Marlins named the All time Home Run King Barry Bonds the teams new hitting coach. Bonds is not the only former steroid era player to be involved in coaching as Mark McGwire is the bench coach for the Padres. It is McGwire's third job in baseball post playing career. Matt Williams who was another player who was involved was the Nationals manager and continues to coach in baseball. Manny Ramirez continues to work in the game with the Cubs.

Of course their are also some players who continue to play in the Majors and play well despite their past. David Ortiz who's name was linked to PEDs is retiring after the season and many will celebrate him. Ortiz has so much support in Boston many people forget he was involved or simply deflect his name with the issues. I have no issues with the PED stuff but it is interesting how some won't
acknowledge Ortiz's involvement. Never the less Ortiz is a marketable player for baseball and Boston.

Alex Rodriguez sat out all of 2015 due to a steroid suspension. After a messy year with baseball and the Yankees , Rodriguez was back in the good graces of baseball and the Yankees. Rodriguez had a great season hitting 33 home runs and helping the Yankees reach the playoffs. Rodriguez embraced being the DH position and embraced the under dog persona. Rodriguez won back many people including the majority of Yankee fans. Rodriguez did pre and post game work for Fox in the playoffs and was widely popular as a commentator. Rodriguez was very active in baseball and Yankee charities and was back being a big player in the press game in a positive way. It has to be good for baseball when one of its biggest stars can be used in marketing and other things after the issues. The Yankees even had a day at the stadium to honor Rodriguez.

Personally I think it is great for baseball that people in the game can move past the steroid issues. The era was the era and that can't be changed. Former players like McGwire and Bonds have plenty to offer as coaches. Alex Rodriguez has plenty to offer the young players on the Yankees and young players in the game. We saw the benefit of Jason Giambi on the Indians in developing young players. Could these moves be possible moves towards these players making the Hall of Fame ? It's very possible.

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Week 10 NFL Picks

Week 10 in the NFL

The week started off on Thursday Night in Met Life Stadium. It was the Buffalo Bills against the New York Jets. Rex Ryan now the coach of the Bills would win his home coming 22-17. Eric Decker had another big game for the Jets but it was overshadowed by the Bills rushing attack with Shady McCoy and Karlos Williams. The Bills and Jets are now both 5-4 fighting for a playoff spot.

Patriots vs Giants - We all know the history between the two teams. We all know how the Giants have seemed to dominant the Patriots especially with the game on the line. This Sunday the Patriots again should be heavy favorites especially with the Giants lack of pass rush. The smart pick is the Patriots and I try to avoid this but I'm taking my homer fan pick and taking the Giants at home. The Giants seem to have the Pats number so who says they can't Sunday at Met Life.

Giants 38 , Patriots 35

Vikings vs Raiders - The Raiders have been out proving that they are the real deal. The Vikings have been out proving the same thing. The Raiders have the better offense but the Vikings offense shouldn't be slept on. I think the Vikings are out to keep up with the Packers and get the win Sunday.

Vikings 24 , Raiders 17

Bears vs Rams - This game does not jump out on you but it can be a fun game. The Bears offense has been rolling and the Rams defense has been rolling. It will be interesting to see if Wes Welker makes his Rams debut on Sunday. The Rams defense will be too much.

Rams 24 , Bears 17

Cowboys vs Buccaneers - This game is so crucial for the Cowboys. They can not afford another loss and if that happens on Sunday it can seal their season. The Buccaneers have been playing some good football despite their lack of finishing games. This will be a big win for the Bucs.

Buccaneers 23 , Cowboys 16  

Cardinals vs Seahawks - This is the Seahawks big shot to get back in the division race. A loss here can be a back breaker for those hopes. I think the Seahawks defense will shut down the Cardinals and the offense does enough to get the victory.

Seahawks 24 , Cardinals 21

Other picks
Bills ,  Steelers , Packers , Panthers , Eagles , Saints , Ravens , Broncos , Bengals

Lock pick - Packers
Upset pick - Giants

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Updated Fantasy Football QB Ranks

Updated Fantasy Football Quarterback Ranks

1. T. Brady

2. C. Newton 

3. C. Palmer

4. B. Roethlisberger 

5. A. Dalton

6. D. Brees

7. A. Rodgers 

8. R. Wilson 

9. E. Manning 

10. P. Rivers 

11. B. Bortles 

11. D. Carr 

12. M. Stafford 

13. J. Winston 

14. T. Taylor 

15. M. Ryan 

16. J. Cutler

17. R. Fitzpatrick

18. R. Tannehill 

19. M. Mariota

20.  A. Luck 

21. K. Cousins 

22. B. Hoyer 

23. A. Smith 

24. S. Bradford 

25. J. Manziel 

By Peter Vitella

NBA Predictions

NBA Predictions

MVP - Lebron James
Defensive Player of the Year - Anthony Davis
Rookie of the Year - Jahlil Okafor

East
1. Cavaliers
2. Bulls
3. Hawks
4. Wizards
5. Raptors
6. Heat
7. Celtics
8. Pacers

West
1. Warriors
2. Thunder
3. Clippers
4. Rockets
5. Spurs
6. Pelicans
7. Grizzlies
8. Jazz

East Finals - Cavaliers over Hawks
West Finals - Clippers over Spurs
Finals - Cavaliers over Clippers

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

NFL Week 7

NFL Week 7

Week 6's best game was between the Panthers and the Seahawks. Cam Newton lead an epic comeback and the Panthers remained undefeated. The Broncos , Packers , Patriots , and Bengals also remained undefeated. Week 7 began with the Seahawks dominating the 49ers.

Jets vs Patriots
The Jets defense has been as dominating as any. The Pats offense has been the best in football and Tom Brady may be in for another MVP season. The Jets will play the Patriots tuff but I think the Pats ultimately get the win.
Patriots 23 , Jets 19

Cowboys vs Giants
The Giants looked terrible last Monday but they need this game against the Cowboys. Without Tony Romo and Dez Bryant I think the Giants do enough to get this done.
Giants 24 , Cowboys 17

Saints vs Colts
The Colts looked a lot better against the Patriots last week. Andrew Luck had a nice game and he didn't turn over the football. The Saints have looked shakey and I think the Colts are the better team.
Colts 28 , Saints 20

Eagles vs Panthers
Sam Bradford looked terrible against the Giants last week but Demarco Murray looked very good. The Panthers defense will come in tuff against the Eagles and I think they remain undefeated.
Panthers 24 , Eagles 16

Other picks
Seahawks , Bills , Vikings , Falcons , Chargers , Falcons , Rams , Dolphins , Steelers , Redskins , Panthers

World Series Preview

Mets vs Royals World Series Preview

C - Salvador Perez vs Travis d' Arnaud
Perez may be the best defensive catcher in all the AL. He has some pop in the bat. Clearly the Royals have the advantage here.
Edge - Royals

1B - Eric Hosmer vs Lucas Duda
Eric Hosmer is a leader for the team and does it both offensively and defensively.
Edge - Royals

2B - Ben Zobrist vs Daniel Murphy
Make no mistake about it Ben Zobrist is a better all round baseball player than Daniel Murphy. That being said over the last 10 days Murphy is the best player on the planet. His bat is just too important right now.
Edge - Mets

SS - Alcides Escobar vs Wilmer Flores
Escobar is the better hitter and fielder. He was the ALCS MVP.
Edge - Royals

3B - Mike Moustakas vs David Wright
David Wright is the leader of the Mets. His bat is more important to the Mets lineup.
Edge - Mets

OF - Defensively the Royals have the stronger outfield than the Mets. The Mets have the best player of all the outfielders in Yoenis Cespedes. Curtis Granderson is playing great. So is Lorenzo Cain.
Edge - Even

DH - Kendrys Morales had a 30 homer season at DH for the Royals. The Mets didn't have a DH obviously but their DH platoon will be okay.
Edge - Royals

SP - The Mets have the best rotation in baseball.
Edge - Mets

RP - The Royals have the best bullpen in baseball. Wade Davis pitched a great 9th inning to pick up the save stranding a man on third with no outs.
Edge - Royals

Manager - Terry Collins just seems to be doing everything right lately. I'll go with him right now.

Who has the edge ?
I think the Royals have the better defense and bullpen. The Mets clearly have the better pitching rotation. In the NL Park the Mets have the lineup advantage as Kendrys Morales won't be available for the Royals. In the AL park the Royals have the advantage.
Edge - even for both teams

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

NFL Week 5

NFL Week 5 Picks

Week 5 started off with a blast from the past as Andre Johnson and Matt Hasselbeck both went crazy to give the Colts a win. Now I picked the Texans after seeing the Colts play last week without Andrew Luck, and I wasn't impressed. None the less I'm 0-1 to start the week and the Texans are terrible.

Seahawks vs Bengals
This has the makings of being a great football game. The Seahawks have won 2 straight to move to 2-2. However they just haven't looked themselves. Last week they almost blew a lead against a bad Lions team. The Bengals on the other hand look great. Andy Dalton is off to the best start of his career. Aj Green has been a dominant receiver. However this is huge test for this Bengals offense. Their defense will not have to deal with Marshawn Lynch. I still want the Bengals to prove they beat everyone.

Seahawks 21 , Bengals 14

Patriots vs Cowboys
This game would be a lot more exciting if Tony Romo and Dez Bryant were playing. With that being said the Cowboys were not winning with them and their most certainly not winning with out them. It's a weak slate of games this week and I think everyone will get a good look at the Patriots dominance.

Patriots 38 , Cowboys 20

Saints vs Eagles
These are two teams that I thought would be in the mix this year and it hasn't started off that way. The Eagles still have a chance in the NFC east but the Saints have to get wins because both the Falcons and Panthers are 4-0. Despite a loss Sam Bradford looked good for the Eagles but I think this is the week that Demarco Murray produces.

Eagles 24 , Saints 20

Steelers vs Chargers
Philip Rivers is playing good football. Keenan Allen looks great. Antonio Gates returns and the Steelers are with backup Quarterback Mike Vick. I am actually really excited for this game. The Steelers looked okay with Vick last Thursday. However he needs to get Antonio Brown the ball more
on Monday. I think the Chargers offense is just too much for the Steelers on Monday. They pull away
late.

Chargers 27 , Steelers 17


The Rest - Falcons , Bills , Chiefs  , Ravens , Packers  , Jaguars ,  Cardinals , Broncos , Giants

By Peter Vitella 

2015-2016 NHL Predictions

2015-2016 NHL Predictions

With the season starting tonight here are the predictions for the postseason and awards:

Eastern Conference 
Metropolitan Division
1. New York Rangers
2. Washington Capitals
3. New York Islanders
4. Pittsburgh Penguins
5. Columbus Blue Jackets
6. New Jersey Devils
7. Carolina Hurricanes

Atlantic Division
1. Tampa Bay Lightning
2. Montreal Canadians
3. Ottawa Senators
4. Florida Panthers
5. Boston Bruins
6. Detroit Red Wings
7. Toronto Maple Leafs

Wild Cards: Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets

Western Conference
Central Division
1. Chicago Blackhawks
2. Nashville Predators
3. Dallas Stars
4. St. Louis Blues
5. Minnesota Wild
6. Colorado Avalanche
7. Winnipeg Jets

Pacific Division
1. Anaheim Ducks
2. Los Angeles Kings
3. San Jose Sharks
4. Vancouver Canucks
5. Calgary Flames
6. Edmonton Oilers
7. Arizona Coyotes

Wild Cards: Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames

President's Trophy: Anaheim Ducks

Eastern Conference Champion: Tampa Bay Lightning

Western Conference Champion: Nashville Predators

Stanley Cup Champions: Tampa Bay Lightning

Hart Trophy: John Tavares, New York Islanders

Art Ross Trophy: Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins

Norris Trophy: Ryan McDonagh, New York Rangers

Vezina Trophy: Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers

Calder Trophy: Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers

Jack Adams Trophy: John Cooper, Tampa Bay Lightning


What are your predictions? Send them to us @theleaguesport and @bblueshirts on Twitter

The First Quarter of Fantasy Football

The fantasy football and the NFL season are four games in the books. So far their have been some players who have played excellent and some have disappointed. I will give you some of the players who have impressed and have unimpressed. Wide receivers have been really good , Quarterbacks have been injured and running backs are just terrible. I may not always talk about the best players in this column so if you don't see Aaron Rodgers or Rob Gronkowski it's not because their not doing great because they are.

Impressed

QB

Carson Palmer was probably outside of most peoples top 15 coming off an ACL injury. If you drafted Palmer however you currently have a guy that should be ranked a top guy going forward. Palmer has thrown for at least 300 yards in every game since once. He has 10 touchdowns and just three picks.

Tom Brady was drafted late in all formats due to a four game suspension. However Brady won his suspension appeal and will not miss any time. He's playing like the number one Quarterback overall and he and Aaron Rodgers will be a toss up for the number one spot. 9 touchdowns and 0 interceptions through three games for Brady.

Other notables ( C. Newton , M. Ryan , E. Manning , T. Taylor , A. Dalton )

RB

Devonta Freeman has been an absolute beast this season. Six touchdowns in his last two games. Freeman is a duel threat and the Falcons have rode him to a 4-0 start. Tevin Coleman is the other running back for the Falcons and he is currently hurt.

Adrian Peterson missed basically the whole season last year and he has came back very strong this year. Peterson has just one game under 80 yards and is on a better pace then his record setting 2012 season.

Other notables ( J. Charles , L. Murray , L. Bell , T. Yeldon)p

WR

You expect Julio Jones to have a monster season but Julio Jones can have a record setting season if he stays on this pace. Jones has four touchdowns and already has three games over 130 yards.

Larry Fitzgerald is far from done. Fitzgerald was drafted by many this year just for the fact of his
name. Fitzgerald has benefited from a great start from Carson Palmer. Fitzgerald has 6 catches in every game at least and has 5 scores.

Other notables ( B. Marshall , J. Jones , K. Allen , A. Cooper , D. Hopkins )

TE

Jordan Reed has clearly benefited from playing with Kirk Cousins this season despite Cousins not really playing well. Cousins loves targeting Reed who has at least five catches in every game so far.

Charles Clay has two games over 80 yards this season. He also has two touchdowns. In a inconsistent position he has been consistent.

Other notables ( J. Witten , T. Kelce , K. Rudolph )

D/ST , K

Denver Broncos , New York Jets
Josh Brown ,  Justin Tucker


Un Impressed

QB

Andrew Luck may have been the first or second guy drafted at Quarterback in your draft. So far he hasn't been worth that investment. Luck has 5 touchdowns to 7 interceptions. He has no 300 yard games and missed one due to injury. Luck is still elite but his line is not.

Matthew Stafford has not impressed. It's not all his fault as the line has been terrible , the run game has been shaky and the receivers haven't played extremely well. Stafford has had trouble finding the end zone as he has 5 touchdowns and 5 picks.

Other notables ( C. Kaepernick , R. Tannehill , S. Bradford )

RB

Demarco Murray has led the crop of disappointing running backs. The position has been a mess. Murray had a good fantasy game the first game of the season but only because of one rushing touchdown and one receiving touchdown. Murray has missed one game due to injury and has 47 yards in three games.


CJ Anderson's best rushing game is 43 yards. His best receiving game was the same game with 27 yards last week. I don't know of this is a good sign but we will see. Ronnie Hillman is trying to take over the starting job from him. Anderson has no touchdowns rushing or receiving.

Other notables ( L. McCoy , M. Gordon , M. Lynch , L. Miller )

WR

Andre Johnson has been terrible. 7 catches In four games. He has zero in his last two games. Johnson has just looked old and he looks like he really isn't fitting in the system. Johnson was supposed to have a big year with Andrew Luck but it hasn't happened.


Nelson Agholor was supposed to have a big year replacing Jeremy Maclin and he has had an absolute horrible year. He has 7 catches and no touchdowns in four games.

Other notables (B. Cooks , A. Boldin , G. Tate )

TE

Jimmy Graham hasn't looked great with his new team. It's not because Graham isn't still great it's just that he doesn't really fit the Seattle system. He really hasn't been worth his draft value at all. Graham has two really good games and two really poor games. Graham however cam turn it around because he is the best receiving option on this team.

Jordan Cameron has not looked good his last two games for the Dolphins. Cameron had two decent games to start the season however the Dolphins have looked terrible and it has hurt him also. He has no touchdowns.

Other Notables ( O. Daniels , B. Watson , G. Olsen , Z. Ertz )

D/ST , K

Baltimore Ravens , Miami Dolphins
Josh Scobee , Blair Walsh

NFL Week 4 Picks

Week 4 Picks

Last week was a great bounce back picking games as I went 13-3. Last week their were a slate of good games. This week we have some interesting games as well including the Jets and Dolphins in London England. I am off to a solid start this with as I had the Ravens by 3 points. So let's get into the picks.

Jets vs Dolphins
I am honestly not that excited about this game however it is in London and it is a huge divisional game. It also starts at 9:30 which means literally football from 9:30 am -12 midnight which is a plus. The Jets had a ruff lose at home to the Eagles and the Dolphins got destroyed by their division rival Buffalo Bills. If the Dolphins drop another game I think things can go south for that coaching staff. U think the Jets defense does enough to make that happen.

Jets 17 , Dolphins 14

Giants vs Bills
I think this game has the makings to be the game of the week and I expect it to be a close one. The Bills have a dominating defense and the strong home crowd behind them. The Giants have their offensive weapons in Eli Manning and Odell Beckham Jr. The Bills will try to pressure Eli Manning but he will try to get the ball out quick and fast. The Bills will be without Shady McCoy and Sammy Watkins , the Giants without Victor Cruz.

Giants 24 , Bills 21

Vikings vs Broncos
The Broncos offense looked much better last week when Peyton Manning went into the shot gun and ran the offense rather than Gary Kubiak. Both defenses will play well and the Broncos will be tasked with taking care of Adrian Peterson. I think the Broncos have the better offense and defense so I think they win the game.

Broncos 28 , Vikings 17

Cowboys vs Saints
The Saints are still looking for their first win and the Cowboys are looking for their first without Tony Romo. I think Drew Brees will play but I have not seen anything to make me believe in the Saints. I think the Cowboys do just enough to win the game.


Cowboys 28 , Saints 27

The rest - Ravens , Falcons , Raiders , Bengals , Colts , Bengals , Panthers , Chargers , Packers , Cardinals , Seahawks

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Fantasy Football Pass or Play

Week 3 Fantasy Football

Odell Beckahm Jr and Eli Manning both played very well on Thursday Night football and I would imagine that you would be happy with either of them if you had them.  This Sunday their are a lot of interesting match ups and a lot of them will impact your fantasy football lineups. So here are some of my recommendations on which players you should feel comfortable or uncomfortable about this week. Obviously I'm not telling you to start or sit all of these players. I don't know who you have on your roster. This week I have Brandin Cooks as a pass but as an owner of Cooks I'm not playing Markus Wheaton or Golden Tate or Jeremy Maclin over him.

Play

QB

Tom Brady for me is the number one Quarterback going forward this season and obviously you would never think of not starting him. I bring this up because last week experts and owners alike got to cute and didn't love Brady against the Bills. Never doubt the numbers he is going to put up , EVER !

Russell Wilson played pretty good last week and if you don't think he is going to light up the Bears this week you might just be crazy. The Bears have allowed 79 points in two games this year. Aaron Rodgers and Carson Palmer absolutely destroyed the Bears defense , Wilson will join the club.

RB

Latavius Murray had 65 yards and a touchdown in week 2 and I think he should play well again this week against the Browns. The. Browns allowed Chris Ivory to have a monster game week one against the Jets. I think Murray will get the red zone touches and the red zone scores this week.

Marshawn Lynch hasn't looked himself the first two weeks but stop worrying about him. Like I said earlier the Bears gave up 79 points in two weeks. I don't think anyone can stop Marshawn Lynch this week. He should dominate the ground game and he can catch the football. Seattle players are looking good this week.

WR

Julian Edelman looked great in week two and Tom Brady looks better than ever. Edelman had two scores in week two and I love his matchup against the Jaguars. The Patriots are throwing the ball at a crazy rate and Edelman benefits here.

Brandon Marshall has looked excellent in his first two games. The Eagles secondary has not. Look at the game Julio Jones had week one and Terrance Williams broke a big touchdown last week. Eric Decker might not play and even of he does I think Marshall finds the end zone.

TE
Jimmy Graham has been frustrated and so has the whole Seahawks origination. I think Lynch and Wilson have big games and I think their is plenty to go around. Jimmy Graham has a monster game.


Travis Kelce is a really good player. I think the Chiefs will have to do their best to keep up with the Packers offense and he can benefit with a ton of targets. The Chiefs will lose by 28 if Alex Smith plays like he did last week so expect them to try and get in a passing rhythm.

D/ST

Seahawks offense should have a field day and so should the defense. I think this one gets ugly and gets ugly fast. No Alshon Jeffrey or Jay Cutler. Seattle will not start 0-3. They are looking for blood.

The Bills were dominated last week by Tom Brady. In week one they dominated Andrew Luck. I like the Bills too play really well against the Dolphins. The Dolphins looked bad in their first game and lost their second game. I don't like anything about this game for the Dolphins.

The Panthers always play the Saints very well and no Drew Brees makes it even easier. I don't see how you don't love this matchup.

K

Brandon McManus has looked like he can kick from anywhere on the field. I think Denver explodes against a beat up Lions team. He will be busy.

Pass

QB

Matthew Stafford is banged up. The Broncos defense has four picks in the first two weeks of the season and their pass rush has looked good. Stafford is going to have no fun.


Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins just haven't been what I expected so far. I think the Bills can do a lot of damage this weekend. I want no part of Tannehill this week. The pass rush will just be too much for the Dolphins to handle.

RB

Demarco Murray/ Eagles , Murray is banged up and the whole offense just looks out of sink. As a Murray owner I hope he breaks out I expected big things from him this season. Your playing him but it doesn't feel great. Ryan Matthews and Darren Sproles are being used but until they have a role take a pass.


Matt Forte is literally the only weapon the Bears have this weekend. He's banged up and this game can get ugly fast. The Hawks will focus on him  and I just don't love the day he is in store for. However your playing him.

WR

Brandin Cooks is still going to be good this year. Hang in their. This will not be his week. No Drew Brees , in Carolina it should be a tuff week. I love that Panthers defense this week.

Golden Tate is a good player but this is going to be a tuff week for the Lions. I think the Broncos will hit them hard and bury them early. I have not been impressed so far and I don't think I will be again this week.

TE

Greg Olsen hasn't looked like the same guy. That's not his fault. The Panthers have zero weapons and the formula has been the ground and they will not budge on that formula.

Owen Daniels was supposed to replace Julius Thomas no problem. I still think he can do some good things but after such a slow start show me something first.

D/ST

The Lions defense is not good. It's not last year and Peyton Manning is fine. I think the Broncos dominate the Lions on offense and defense.

The Rams defense is really good but I don't think Antonio Brown can be stopped. I don't think they have the player to contain him and Le'Veon Bell comes back to make matters worse.

K

Robbie Gould seems to never miss but I don't think he gets too many shots in Sunday.

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

The Week 3 Picks

I have to admit it last week was a brutal week for me picking games. Their was a lot of games I was shocked by and many of the close match ups didn't swing my way. However I feel you can never go wrong with Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. They both performed well and were some of my notable picks. For some of my notable losses were the Eagles and the Colts. This week the Broncos and the Lions play on Sunday Night football and the Packers play the Chiefs on Monday Night. I don't see the Packers or the Broncos losing this week. Those two games didn't make my top four I am most excited to see.

Eagles vs Jets
I was extremely high on the Eagles going into the season. I was not sure about the Jets I said they could win 6-10 because I was intrigued by this team. So far I don't see why they can't win 9-10 games. I'm not jumping on the Jets ban wagon yet and I'm pretty close to jumping off the Eagles. The Eagles run game has been terrible , and Sam Bradford has looked rusty. I'm still not sold on the Jets offense but they have looked better than I thought. The defense puts them to 3-0.

Jets 24 , Eagles 14

Bengals vs Ravens
I am really excited for this game this weekend. It should be a hard hitting battle and the Ravens need this game. I thought they would be the Super Bowl champs but after the Suggs injury I'm just hoping they sneak into the playoffs. Just like I bet on Eli Manning on Thursday night in a must win I bet on Joe Flacco in a must win for the Ravens. Andy Dalton has looked great but he struggles Sunday.

Ravens 20 , Bengals 13

Falcons vs Cowboys
Call me a Giants homer but this Cowboys team is in trouble. I do not trust Brandon Weeden , Terrance Williams is not a number one receiver and Jason Witten is banged up. The run game has not looked great and the Falcons offense has looked very strong. For all the people who don't think Tony Romo is good (they don't know football ) you will see how much the team will hurt without him. This is a bigger loss than Dez Bryant. Also who's stopping Julio Jones ?

Falcons 27 , Cowboys 17

Steelers vs Rams
I don't know why I'm intrigued by this game but I am. I feel like it can be a good game. The Rams are tuff at home and looked great in week one. Their defense is a violent one and the offense is strange. The Steelers will get a boost with Le'Veon Bell in the run and pass game. Antonio Brown should go crazy again bit I think this is going to be a really good game.
Steelers 24 , Rams 20

The rest
Giants , Panthers , Texans , Patriots , Cardinals , Seahawks , Raiders , Colts , Chargers , Bills , Broncos , Packers

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Remembering Yogi

Per Bombers Beat

Yogi Berra meant so much to the Yankees and meant so much to baseball. If you are a baseball fan you are a Yogi fan. Berra was a ten time World Series champ and a three time MVP. Berra was a 285 career hitter and had 358 homers. Berra was known as a great pitch caller. He also had a .522 winning percentage as a manager. Berra was not only an amazing baseball player but an amazing man. Berra put his career on hold when he was a young man to serve in World War 2. Berra will always be remembered for his wit and his sayings that made no sense but made complete sense. Berra had his number retired by the Yankees and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Berra left his mark on the Yankee franchise. You loved seeing him at Spring training , playoff games , old timers day or opening day ceremonies. Berra will always be remembered as a Yankee and a baseball great. It's crazy to think about Yogi being gone. Yogi was this character that you viewed as a living legend. You viewed him as someone who was immortal. You viewed him as not a baseball icon but an American icon. You can learn a lot by just observing Yogi and during his time on this Earth I hope you did. When Yogi Berra comes to a fork in the road I know he will take it. He will take it to heaven to play baseball their. He will take it to baseball immortality and he will always be one of baseballs biggest figures. Rest in Peace Lawrence Peter Yogi Berra.

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

NFL Week 2

4 Intriguing Games in Week 2 of the NFL

Patriots vs Bills
I am a believer in this Bills team however I think the Pats will beat them in a close battle. The Patriots will do enough and Julian Edelman will have an excellent game. The Bills defense will rattle Tom Brady but he will ultimately get the win. The Bills defense is violent and so is the Pats offense it's a fun matchup.
Pats 24 , Bills 21

Cowboys vs Eagles
No Dez Bryant No problem ? No big problem. The Cowboys are without their best playmaker Dez and their leading rusher from a year ago Demarco Murray. Murray is on the Eagles now. I like what I saw from the Eagles in the second half last week. The Eagles win today.
Eagles 31 , Cowboys 24

Chargers vs Bengals
I love what I saw from Philip Rivers in week one. He lead a great comeback after the team was down 21-3. I expect Rivers to play well again today. Andy Dalton played good week one and so did Jeremy Hill. I think the Chargers are the better team.
Chargers 24 , Bengals 20

Seahawks vs Packers
The Hawks lost in week one and even though the Packers are at home I do not see Seahawks starting 0-2. The lack of Jordy Nelson will hurt today. I think Aaron Rodgers can struggle getting the ball out to Davante Adams and James Jones. I say the Packers fail to score 20 points today.
Seahawks 20 , Packers 17

NFL Season Predictions

Here are the staff predictions

Tom Baggot

AFC East
1. Pats: 13-3
2. Bills: 10-6
3. Dolphins: 9-7
4. Jets: 6-10

AFC North
1. Steelers: 12-4
2. Ravens: 11-5
3. Bengals: 8-8
4. Browns: 5-11

AFC South
1. Colts: 13-3
2. Texans: 9-7
3. Titans: 5-11
4. Jags: 3-13

AFC West
1. Broncos: 13-3
2. Chargers: 12-4
3.Chiefs: 9-7
4. Raiders: 3-13

AFC Wild Cards 
Chargers , Ravens 

NFC East
1. Cowboys: 12-4
2. Eagles: 11-5
3. Giants: 8-8
4. Redskins: 2-14

NFC North
1. Packers: 13-3
2. Vikings: 11-5
3. Lions: 10-6
4. Bears: 8-8

NFC South
1. Falcons: 10-6
2. Panthers: 9-7
3. Saints: 7-9
4. Bucs: 7-9

NFC West
1. Seahawks: 12-4
2. Cards: 10-6
3. Rams: 8-8
4. 49ers: 2-14

NFC Wild Cards 
Eagles , Viking

Super Bowl - Colts over Packers

Shane Tobin

AFC east
1. Pats (13-3)
2. Bills (10-6)
3. Fins (9-7)
4. Jets (4-12)

AFC North
1. Steelers (12-4)
2. Ravens (11-5)
3. Bengals (8-8)
4. Browns (5-11)

AFC West
1. Broncos (12-4)
2. Chargers (10-6)
3. Chiefs (8-8)
4. Raiders (6-10)

AFC South
1. Colts (12-4)
2. Texans (9-7)
3. Titans (7-9)
4. Jags (4-12)

NFC East
1. Cowboys (11-5)
2. Eagles (10-6)
3. Giants (8-8)
4. Redskins (2-14)

NFC North
1. Packers (13-3)
2. Vikings (9-7)
3. Lions (8-8)
4. Bears (6-10)

NFC West
1. Hawks (13-3)
2. Cardinals (11-5)
3. Rams (9-7)
4. Niners (7-9)

NFC South
1. Panthers (10-6)
2. Saints (9-7)
3. Falcons (7-9)
4. Bucs (6-10)

AFC wildcard
Chargers vs Ravens

NFC wild card
Cardinals , Saints

Super Bowl 
Patriots over Packers 

Peter Vitella 

NFC East
1. Eagles 11-5
2. Giants 9-7
3. Cowboys 9-7
4. Redskins 3-13

NFC South
1. Saints 10-6
2. Panthers 8-8
3. Falcons 7-9
4. Buccaneers 4-12


NFC North
1. Packers 12-4
2. Vikings 10-6
3. Lions 9-7
4. Bears 5-11

NFC West
1. Seahawks 13-3
2. Cardinals 11-5
3. Rams 9-7
4. 49ers 6-10

AFC East
1. Patriots 13-3
2. Bills 10-6
3. Dolphins 9-7
4. Jets 7-9

AFC South
1. Colts 10-6
2. Texans 7-9
3. Jaguars 5-11
4. Titans 4-12

AFC North
1. Ravens 12-4
2. Steelers 11-5
3. Bengals 10-6
4. Browns 4-12

AFC West
1. Broncos 12-4
2. Chargers 10-6
3. Chiefs 9-7
4. Raiders 5-11

Wild Cards
NFC - Cardinals , Vikings
AFC - Steelers , Bills

Super Bowl
Ravens over Seahawks

Joseph Vitella

AFC North
1. Ravens 12-4
2. Steelers 11-5
3. Bengals 8-8
4. Browns 3-13

AFC East
1. Patriots 13-3
2. Bills 10-6
3. Dolphins 7-9
4. Jets 4-12

AFC South
1. Colts 12-4
2. Jaguars 8-8
3. Texans 6-10
4. Titans 4-12

AFC West
1. Broncos 14-2
2. Chargers 9-7
3. Chiefs 7-9
4. Raiders 7-9

NFC north
1. Packers 12-4
2. Vikings 11-5
3. Loins 8-8
4. Bears 5-11

NFC East
1. Cowboys 11-5
2. Giants 10-6
3. Eagels 8-8
4. Redskins 2-14

NFC South
1. Saints 10-6
2. Falcons 9-7
3. Panthers 7-9
4. Bucks 5-11

NFC West
1. Seahawks 14-2
2. Cardinals 9-7
3. 49ers 6-10
4. Rams 5-11

NFC Wild Cards
Vikings , Giants

AFC wild cards
Steelers , Bills

Super Bowl
Broncos over Packers

Jordan Grubin

AFC West
1. Broncos 11-5
2. Chiefs 9-7
3. Chargers 9-7
4. Raiders 6-10

AFC North
1. Steelers 10-6
2. Ravens 9-7
3.Bengals 9-7
4. Browns 5-11

AFC South
1. Colts 10-6
2. Texans 10-6
3. Jaguars 6-10
4. Titans 4-12

AFC East
1. Patriots 10-6
2. Jets 10-6
3. Bills 8-8
4. Dolphins 7-9

NFC West
1. Seahawks 12-4
2. Cardinals 8-8
3. 49ers 7-9
4. Rams 7-9

NFC South
1. Panthers 9-7
2. Falcons 9-7
3. Saints 8-8
4. Buccaneers 6-10

NFC  North
1. Lions 10-6
2. Packers 10-6
3. Vikings 8-8
4. Bears 7-9

NFC East
1. Eagles 10-6
2. Cowboys 9-7
3. Giants 8-8
4. Redskins 6-10

AFC Wild cards - Jets , Ravens
NFC Wild Cards - Packers , Cowboys
Super Bowl - Steelers over Seahawks

 Evan Grubin

AFC South
Colts 12-4
Texans 9-7
Jacksonville 5-10
Titans 3-13

Afc North
Ravens 10-6
Steelers 9-7
Bengals 8-8
Browns 6-10

AFC east
Pats 13-3
Jets 10-6
Bills 8-8
Dolphins 8-8

AFC west
Broncos 12-4
Chiefs 10-6
Chargers 7-9
Raiders 6-10

NFC east
Eagles 11-5
Cowboys 10-6
Giants 6-10
Redskins 4-12

NFC north
Packers 12-4
Lions 9-7
Vikings 8-8
Bears 5-11

NFC south
Falcons 10-6
Saints 8-8
Panthers 7-9
Buccaneers 6-10

NFC west
Seattle 14-2
Cardinals 11-5
49ers 8-8
Rams 7-9


Wild card NFC
Cowboys cardinals

AFC
Jets Chiefs

Super bowl
Seattle over Colts

Predicting the MLB Playoff Picture

With one month to go in the MLB season their is not much that I think will change in the standings. The AL East is left open and so is an AL Wild Card Spot. The NL looks locked up. Here's how I see it finishing.

AL East - Yankees
Currently in second place and in the Wild Card game I am actually a believer in this rotation and the veteran lineup. They have been here before Toronto has not. Give me the Yankees in the division , Toronto in the Wild Card.

AL Central - Royals
It seemed this division race was over before it started. The Royals have been a force all year and Johnny Cueto will figure out the AL sooner rather than later. Alex Gordon is back.

AL West - Astros
I think the Angels overachieved all year and are a bad team. The Astros are an excellent team. Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa are the best middle infield duo in baseball.

AL Wild Card
1. Blue Jays - The Jays have the clear cut best lineup in baseball. They're rotation and bullpen come into question but they have David Price. RA Dickey is rolling and Marcus Stroman is trying to comeback from injury.

2. Rangers - They have their ace in Cole Hamels. They have a huge list of bats to plug in. Adrian Beltre , Prince Fielder , Josh Hamilton , Shin Soo Choo and the list goes on.

Missing the playoffs - Rays , Twins , Orioles



NL East - Mets
The Mets have one of baseballs best rotations in all of baseball. The lineup is improved with Yoenis Cespedes and David Wright back from injury.

NL Central - Cardinals
Baseballs clear cut best team. They have a strong back end of the bullpen. They have a good defensive team. They have a strong lineup and a great rotation.

NL West - Dodgers
It's hard to not pick them for the playoffs. They have Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw. Greinke may leave after this season so they will go for it.

NL Wild Card
1. Pirates - The Pirates need Aj Burnett to come back if they want to make a deep run in the playoffs.

2. Cubs - Jake Arrieta and Jon Lester lead a team with a star studded young lineup. If the Cubs get past the Wild Card game watch out.

Missing the playoffs - Giants , Nationals , Diamondbacks

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Fantasy Football : Quarterback and Wide Receiver

1. A. Rodgers
2. A. Luck
3. P. Manning
4. D. Brees
5. T. Brady
6. B. Roethlisberger
7. M. Ryan
8. R. Wilson
9. T. Romo
10. E. Manning
11. C. Newton
12. M. Stafford
13. R. Tannehill
14. P. Rivers
15. C. Kaepernick
16. J. Flacco
17. S. Bradford
18. T. Bridgewater
19. C. Palmer
20. J. Cutler
21. R. Griffin
22. A. Smith
23. A. Dalton
24. D. Carr
25. N. Foles

1. A. Brown
2. D. Thomas
3. D. Bryant
4. O. Beckham Jr
5. C. Johnson
6. J. Nelson
7. J. Jones
8. A. Green
9. A. Jeffrey
10. R. Cobb
11. T. Hilton
12. E. Sanders
13. M. Evans
14. D. Hopkins
15. D. Jackson
16. B. Cooks
17. J. Edelman
18. A. Johnson
19. J. Matthews
20. S. Watkins
21. B. Marshall
22. G. Tate
23. V. Jackson
24. K. Allen
25. A. Cooper
26. J. Maclin
27. M. Wallace
28. J. Landry
29. E. Decker
30. R. White
31. V. Cruz
32. T. Smith
33. M. Floyd
34. M. Bryant
35. M. Colston
36. S. Smith Sr.
37. A. Boldin
38. B. Lafell
39. L. Fitzgerald
40. B. Perriman

http://theleaguesports.blogspot.com/2015/08/value-quarterbacks-and-tiers.html

By Peter Vitella

@Realpete13

Fantasy Football : Running Back and Tight End Rankings

1. L. Bell
2. M. Lynch
3. E. Lacey
4. J. Charles
5. A. Peterson
6. D. Murray
7. L. McCoy
8. M. Forte
9. C. Anderson
10. A. Foster
11. J. Hill
12. A. Morris
13. M. Ingram
14. L. Miller
15. M. Gordon
16. J. Forsett
17. C. Hyde
18. F. Gore
19. J. Bell
20. L. Murray
21. T. Gurley
22. J. Stewart
23. A. Ellington
24. G. Bernard
25. S. Vereen
26. L. Blount
27. C. Spiller
28. I. Crowell
29. R. Jennings
30. T. Yeldon
31. D. McFadden
32. T. Coleman
33. R. Matthews
34. T. Mason
35. D. Martin
36. C. Ivory
37. D. Freeman
38. D. Robinson
39. R. Bush
40. F. Jackson

1. R. Gronkowski
2. J. Graham
3. G. Olsen
4. J. Thomas
5. T. Kelce
6. M. Bennett
7. A. Gates
8. J. Witten
9. J. Cameron
10. D. Allen
11. Z. Ertz
12. O. Daniels
13. D. Walker
14. C. Fleener
15. L. Donnell
16. J. Hill
17. K. Rudolph
18. J. Reed
19. H. Miller
20. C. Clay

By Peter Vitella 

@realpete13

Fantasy Football : Kicker Rankings and D/ST Rankings

1. S. Gostkowski
2. A. Vinatieri
3. S. Hauschka
4. M. Crosby
5. J. Tucker
6. C. Parkey
7. M. Bryant
8. D. Bailey
9. M. Prater
10. B. Walsh
11. C. Barth
12. D. Carpenter
13. P. Dawson
14. J. Brown
15. N. Novak

1. Seattle

2. Buffalo

3. Houston 

4. Rams

5. Broncos

6. Jets

7. Patriots

8. Dolphins

9. Cardinals 

10. Ravens 

11. Lions

12. Chiefs

13. Bengals 

14. Panthers 

15. Steelers  

By Peter Vitella 

@Realpete13 

Value Quarterbacks and The Tiers

Who Should You Value as Your Fantasy QB

Value Picks

Eli Manning

Manning had an excellent season last year in his first under the new offense. Manning threw for 30 touchdowns and had over 4400 passing yards. Manning is a back end fantasy QB1. I would have no issue having him as my guy in any format whether it's 1 or 2 QB. Manning will have a loaded group of weapons and if the offensive line can hold up Manning has an extremely high ceiling.

Tom Brady

As of now Tom Brady is suspended the first four games of the NFL season. This makes Brady a top 3 or 4 QB into a 7 or 8 and value pick. Brady would normally go as a top QB In standard leagues. In a
2 QB league he would go as a 1st or second rounder. Draft Brady with value. In a standard league
you may be able to get him in the 10th round or later. In a 2 QB league view him as a late 3rd or early 4th. When Brady returns he will be a beast as usual.

Sam Bradford

Bradford has had ACL injuries in back to back seasons. Take a look at Bradford's stats from two years ago before he was injured. Bradford was having an excellent year. He had 14 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions before going out with the injury. Bradford is still a young player and I can see him bouncing back.

The Tiers ( Tier 1 , Best of the Best)

1. A. Rodgers - He does not turn the ball over and can do everything.

2. A. Luck - Young , talented , and has plenty of weapons.

3. P. Manning - He finished the year off poorly but focus on what he did weeks 1-13.

4. D. Brees - He lost some weapons but will still be the focal point of the offense.

Tier 2 ( Excellent )

5. B. Roethlisbegrer - Had his best season in a while and is loaded with weapons.

6. T. Brady - Will miss the first 4 games , would be ranked third at the position otherwise for me.

7. M. Ryan - Ryan is always in the 28 touchdown range and this can be his best year ever. He will be consistent.

8. R. Wilson - He offers you the ability to score through the air and on the ground. Many people have him too high in my opinion.

9. T. Romo - Coming off his best year ever , expect another good one from Romo.

10. E. Manning - Loaded with weapons , coming off a excellent season.

Tier 3 ( Good )

11. C. Newton - Need to see more consistency , he can become a top 5 guy.

12. M. Stafford - Another guy who is just inconsistent but can have a monster year.

13. R. Tannehill - He broke out last season and he should be even better this year.

14. P. Rivers - Another guy who can throw for 30 scores.

Tier 4 ( I'll take a shot )

15. C. Kaepernick - The talk of the league two years ago , expect a better year than last years disappointment.

16. J. Flacco - I'm higher than most on Flacco every year. Solid year coming in 2015.

17. S. Bradford - Love him in the Philly offense , if he stays healthy he's a stud.

18. T. Bridgewater - Love what I saw down the stretch last year.

19. C. Palmer - Was having an excellent year before the injury. If he proves he's he healthy I will
move him up.

Tier 5 (Who Knows )

20. J. Cutler - Big play ability , just inconsistent and sometimes bad. I'll take a shot as a backup in a 2 QB league , pass In 1 QB. Big upside.

21. R. Griffin III - Like Cutler it's hard to give up on the talent.

22. N. Foles - Not many weapons in the Rams offense.

23. A. Smith - Great in a league that counts completions. Finally has some weapons.

24. D. Carr - Should improve In year two. Much better receiving core.

25. A. Dalton - Sometimes he looks good sometimes he looks terrible.

Tier 6 (The Rest )

26. B. Bortles - He should improve year two , played well towards the end last year.

27. J. Winston - First year QB with a lot of talent. Good receivers.

28. M. Mariota - I just don't trust the talent around him. He has the talent however.

Tier 7 ( will they start? )

29. R. Fitzpatrick - Will be starting for the Jets and he has two talented receivers. Will he keep the job from Geno ? I think so.

30. M. Cassel - Likely to start in Buffalo.

31. M. Sanchez - Handcuff for Sam Bradford.

32. B. Hoyer - I think he will win the Texans starting job.

33. R. Mallett - More upside than Hoyer. Not sure if he wins the job.

34. J. McCown - Will probably start for the Browns.

35. J. Manziel - If he can prove himself he has way more upside for the Browns and fantasy owners.

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13