Super Bowl XLIX Preview

NFL Preview

Super Bowl XLIX: New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks 

Prediction: New England Patriots 28 Seattle Seahawks 21

          This game is going to be very close and I think running the ball will be a main factor. I think that the Patriots are going to win this game because they are going to be able to run the football with Running Back LeGarrette Blount effectively against the Seahawks front 7. The Patriots are going to try to be balance on offense by getting Tight End Rob Gronkowski involved as well. I think he's going to be the X factor in this matchup and he is definitely going to be a challenge for the legion of boom. I think Patriots Wide Receivers Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola, and Brandon LaFell are going to need to win their individual battles off the ball in order for the whole offense to be in sink. Also, they are going to need to get separation and create good throwing angles for Quarterback Tom Brady. In order for Tom Brady to acquire his 4th championship, he's going to have to have a great game because he's going up against a tough Seattle Seahawks' defense. The player to watch out for on the Seahawks' defense is Cornerback Richard Sherman, he has great size and ball skills. Also, he can make a game changing play if you give him the chance. For the Patriots defense they are going to need to contain Running Back Marshawn Lynch and Quarterback Russell Wilson. Patriots Defensive Lineman Vince Wilfork is definitely going to be needed in this particular matchup. Also, Patriots Cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner are going to be needed to stop the passing game. They will have to contain Seahawks Wide Receivers Doug Baldwin and Jermaine Kearse. The Patriots defense as a whole is going to need to contain Quarterback Russell Wilson in the pocket. They need to play disciplinary football and stay in their right gaps in order to be successful.

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@JordanGrubin23

Atlanta Hawks: NBA Champs?

     As you all may know, the Atlanta Hawks are the best team in the NBA right now.  They are making a run for the finals this year.  They have been dominating the Eastern Conference and they are extremely hard to beat at home. Against the Eastern Conference their record is 26-6. Currently they are on an 18 game winning streak.   

     There are many great players on the Atlanta Hawks. Jeff Teague, the starting point guard, is having a great season. This 26 year old is averaging 16.9 points per game and 7.6 assists per game.  Teague is getting better each year he is in the league. He is doing a great job scoring and running the point. Al Horford is the leader on this team. This veteran big man is having a great season. Unfortunately, due to injuries Al has missed a lot of games over the last two seasons. With Horford playing, the Hawks have a big man to match up against other great centers. Paul Millsap is another great player on this Atlanta Hawks team. He helps his team in rebounding and scoring. Paul could also knock down three pointers. Overall, the Atlanta Hawks are a great basketball team.

My Super Bowl Preview and Prediction

Seahawks vs Patriots Super Bowl Preview

Sunday will be the sixth Super Bowl in Tom Brady's career and the second in as many years for Russell Wilson. The Seahawks defense will be tasked with stopping Tom Brady and the Pats defense tasked with stoping Marshawn Lynch. Lynch will have to have a big game because the Hawks receivers may struggle with Darrell Revis and Brandon Browner. For the Patriots it will be interesting to see the game plan given how the Hawks are tuff against the run and the pass. I expect a mix on the ground with Shane Vereen  and Legarrette Blount. For the Seahawks we will see Russell Wilson spread the ball just looking for whoever he can find.

Julian Edelman is not your typical number one receiver but he is clearly Brady's favorite of the receivers. He is similar to what Wes Welker was and Edelman may not fair all that bad. Brandon Lafell may have his work cut out for him but perhaps Edelman can find some space over the middle of the field. Of course Rob Gronkowski will need to have a big game and personally I believe he can win the MVP of the ball game because I think Brady will work him a lot. For the Seahawks they will
work Lynch all game no matter what. For Wilson his main job is to do what he has done his whole career. Not try to do anything more than the task asks for. If the game is one he needs to take over he will but if not he will let Lynch take over. The main thing for the Seahawks is avoid getting in a shoot out with Tom Brady.

The Prediction - Patriots 28 , Seahawks 24

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Sports Bros

Episode 41: Best Friends With Pitbull

This week on the Sports Bros Podcast, Jordan, Walter, and Shane talk everything Super Bowl. From Seattle’s media dalliances to Tom Brady’s inevitable touchdown plunge, they cover it all. Additionally they make some Super Bowl prop bets and Bro Down.

To vote for the winner of this week’s opening question, be sure to head over to www.jordanrhall.com/vote

Don’t forget to follow the Bros on Twitter

@jordanhall23

@w_lehmann22

@SportsBrosPod

www.jordanrhall.com

www.facebook.com/sportsbrospodcast

Give this great podcast a listen guys. The Sports Bros have a great show.

@Realpete13 

Throwback Thursday: Legion of Boom and Company Cement Their Legacy

Location: Seattle, Washington

Scenario: 2013-2014 NFL Season

Involved: Seattle Seahawks 

For this week's Throwback Thursday, I would like to relive a pretty cool roster that had a pretty cool season. Although it is not that old, it still should be recognized. The young 2013-2014 Seattle Seahawks definitly had a season to remember. Led by a bunch of up and coming stars, Seattle made a run for the ages. Although the roster is still pretty much the same, some key players split with the team. Such players made a huge difference last year. Their absences really show, too. Now, I would like to review a roster that has been compared to the '85 Bears. 

Quarterback

The Seattle Seahawks selected Russell Wilson in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. With the new addition of Matt Flynn, Wilson was supposed to be a backup. Only 5'11", Wilson surprisingly overcame all odds and became the starter. Wilson broke out in 2013, finishing with 3,357 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. A main part of Wilson's game was his ability to extend plays. He also recorded 539 rushing yards. In the Super Bowl, Wilson led his team with 206 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Seahawks have a great, young quarterback for years to come. 

Runningback 

He's about that action boss. Another no-brain starter was RB Marshawn Lynch. Lynch would have a stellar regular season. Lynch, a perfect power-back, rushed for 1,257 yards on 301 carries. He also totaled 12 rushing and 2 receiving touchdowns. Marshawn would put his team on his back thoughout the playoffs, putting up great numbers. In 3 games, he rushed for 288 yards and 4 touchdowns. Lynch has always been pretty fun to watch, on and off the field. 

Wide Receivers

Over the course of the year, the Seahawk receiving corp has changed the most. Percy Harvin and Golden Tate departed from the team. Harvin was out all season with an injury, but left his mark in the playoffs. Harvin was most known for returning the 2nd half kickoff to the house. That was the 

knock-out punch, locking up Seattle's first Super Bowl win in franchise history. Tate also contributed in the regular season with 898 receiving yards. That left Doug Baldwin and Jermaine Kearse as role players. They combined for 3 playoff touchdowns. Tate and Harvin would eventually spilt with the team. 

Defensive Line

The Seattle Seahawk defense is loved by many. Everyone loves their young and energetic play. It all starts with the pressure up-front. DE's Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett would create pressure off the edge. They would combine for 51 tackles, force 6 fumbles, and sacked the quarterback 16.5 times in the regular season. DT Brandon Mebane would lock down the middle with 45 tackles. In Super Bowl XLVIII, this group did a great job of disrupting Peyton Manning.

Linebackers

Another great aspect of the Seahawk defense are their linebackers. LB's Bruce Irvin, Malcolm Smith, and Bobby Wagner really stepped up in 2013. Irvin and Wagner had done a tremendous job stopping the run all year. Smith was known for intercepting Peyton Manning and returning it for a touchdown. He also won the MVP of the game. All 3 of these young players are still with the team. 

Defensive Backs

LOB. Legion. Of. Boom. The tandem of S Kam Chancellor, S Earl Thomas, CB Richard Sherman, 

CB Byron Maxwell, and CB Walter Thurmond III were shutting down offenses all season. In 2013, Seattle had one of the deepest secondaries in the league. Sherman was their shutdown corner. Maxwell was shutting down number 2 receivers all year. Thurmond produced as a slot corner. Chancellor was big hitter who came up in the box and basically put the boom in LOB. Thomas was their scrappy hustler. This wrapped up a scary defense. This secondary limited the number 1 offense to 8 points in the Super Bowl last year. 

With Super Bowl XLIX approaching, it's time to put up or shut up. Can Seattle prove once again they are not a fluke? Or will Seattle fall to the more experienced New England Patriots? We will just have to wait and find out. 

Follow Me on Twitter
@_SwagggyT

The 14 Best Super Bowls Ever

Top 14 Super Bowl Games ever

Before the game Sunday let's look back at a little history with the 14 best Super Bowl games ever played.

14. Steelers vs Cowboys , Super Bowl X - Lynn Swann made some tremendous catches and Terry Bradshaw had the Steelers up 21-10. Roger Staubach rallied back with a touchdown to make it a 21-17 game. The Steelers had a blocked punt that Tom Landry described as a turning point.
Steelers 21 - Cowboys 17

13.Ravens vs 49ers , Super Bowl XLVII - It was a battle between head coach brothers Jim and John Hargbaugh. The Ravens had a big lead but the 49ers rallied back after a power outage delayed the game. Joe Flacco had a big game and defense held off the 49ers on their final drive.
Ravens 34- 49ers 31

12. Broncos vs Packers , Super Bowl XXXII - John Elway and Brett Favre squared up and the Packers were favorites. That didn't stop John Elway on third down who had one of the most famous runs ever as he was crushed by two defenders. The Broncos took the lead and held off a Brett Favre
in the end.
Broncos 31- Packers 24

11. Giants vs Patriots , Super Bowl  XLVI - It was the second time Brady and Manning squared up. The result the same , a Super Bowl MVP for Eli Manning. Tom Brady and the Pats scored on an
Aaron Hernandez touchdown however the Giants would get a chance to win down 17-15. Eli
Manning threw a sideline pass to Mario Manningham to spark the drive , and an Ahmad Bradshaw score would win it.
Giants 21 - Patriots 17

10.Steelers vs Cardinals , Super Bowl  XLIII - Big Ben and Kurt Warner would square up and the matchup was a back and forth classic. Kurt Warner threw a 99 yard pick six to James Harrison. However he was able to rally the Cards back with a touchdown to Larry Fitzgerald. They left just enough time for Ben Roethlisberger to hit Santonio Holmes in the corner for the winning score.
Steelers 27 - Cardinals 23

9.Patriots vs Rams , Super Bowl XXXVI - The Rams were heavy favorites against the Pats but had to rally when the Pats were up by two touchdowns. Kurt Warner tied the game up at 17 but left enough time for first year Quarterback Tom Brady to have one more drive. Brady led a drive and set up Adam Vinatieri who would kick the game winner. 

Patriots 20- Rams 17  

8. Colts vs Saints, Super Bowl XLIV  - The Saints were playing for their city. New Orleans was devastated by Hurricane Katrina. The Colts were led by Peyton Manning. Manning had the Colts rolling early ,however a Saints onside kick and Jeremy Shockey touchdown from Drew Brees had the Saints back in it. With about 3 minutes left Peyton Manning was leading a game tying drive when Tracey Porter picked him off for a touchdown. 

Saints 31 - Colts 17

7. Steelers vs Cowboys , Super Bowl XIII - It was a classic shoutout between Terry Bradshaw and Roger Staubach who combined for 7 touchdowns in the game. Jackie Smith dropped a touchdown and the Cowboys never recovered. 

Steelers 35 - Cowboys 31 

6.  49ers vs Bengals , Super Bowl XXIII - It was a rematch and Joe Montana was ready again. The Niners trailed in the game 16-13 but Montana would lead a 92 yard drive and throw the game winning score to John Taylor with just eight seconds left. The Niners won the low scoring game in dramatic fashion. 

49ers 20 - Bengals 16 

5. Panthers vs Patriots , Super Bowl XXXVIII - Jake Delhomme and Tom Brady  turned the game into a shoot out. Just like in Brady's first Super Bowl win the opposing Quarterback this time Delhomme would lead a drive to tie the score. Of course Tom Brady would get the ball back and set up Adam Vinatieri once again for a game winner.

Patriots 32- Panthers 29

4. Bills vs Giants , Super Bowl XXV - Jeff Hosteler was the second string Quarterback but stepped up big and out played Jim Kelly. However Ottis Anderson stole the show rushing for over 100 yards and a score. With the Bills down 20-19 Scott Norwood lined up and kicked a 47 yard field goal , that missed wide right. 

Giants 20- Bills 19

3. Jets vs Colts , Super Bowl III - It is one of the most famous games in sports history. Joe Namath guaranteed the Jets would beat the heavily favorited Colts. The Jets held Johnny Unitas and the Colts to just 7 points despite being double digit underdogs. 

Jets 16 - Colts 7

2. Titans vs Rams , Super Bowl XXXIV - The Rams were the favorites and showed why as they were up 16-0 however that did not stop the Titans from rallying back. Steve McNair would lead the Titans to a 16-16 tie. However it was Kurt Warner's time and he launched a 73 yard touchdown to Issac Bruce. Then in the final drive Steve McNair hit Kevin Dyson with one of the most famous passes in sports. The result , he was stopped at the one yard line and the game would end like that. 

Rams 23- Titans 16 

1. Giants vs Patriots , Super Bowl  XLII - The Patriots were going for a 19-0 record and the Giants were just trying to shock the world. For most of the game the Giants were all over Tom Brady and the held the Pats dominating offense to just 14. The Giants were up 10-7 when Tom Brady hit Randy Moss for what could have been the game winning td. Then it was Eli Manning's chance and he would put together a drive of his own. On 3rd and 5 it appeared Eli was sacked but escaped and hit David Tyree with the best play in NFL history. Later that drive with time expiring Manning hit Plaxico Burress for the game winning touchdown. 

Giants 17 - Patriots 14 

In honor of the 2014/15 season coming to a close I thought I would share what I believe to be the best Super Bowl games ever. Enjoy the game Sunday. The suspense of who will hold the trophy continues to grow. 

By Peter Vitella 

@realpete13  

The NFL Awards Prediction

The NFL Awards

This Saturday is the NFL Awards Show.

Offensive Rookie of the Year - Odell Beckham Jr.
Odell Beckham Jr scored twelve touchdowns in just twelve games. He also caught 91 passes and had 1305 yards. Beckham emerged as un coverable and extremely dynamic player. He also made one of the best catches of all time.

Defensive Player of the Year - Khalil Mack
Mack was a dominant and consistent force on the defensive side of the ball for the Raiders. Mack had just four sacks but he hit the Quarterback 25 times.

Comeback Player of the Year - Eli Manning
2013 was Eli Manning's worst year of his career. He threw 27 interceptions and just 18 touchdowns. In 2014 Manning returned to being one of the leagues top Quarterbacks. Manning tossed 30 touchdowns and threw just 14 picks. Manning also threw for 4,410 yards.

Coach of the Year - Bruce Arians - Arians led the Cards to 11 wins and a playoff birth despite losing his running back and starting quarterback. He also lost his second string quarterback. Arians managed to hold on to a playoff birth with his third and fourth string Quarterbacks and an unknown running back.

Defensive Player of the Year - JJ Watt
JJ Watt was easily one of the best players in the league and is the clear choice for defensive player of the year. He is also an MVP candidate. Watt had 20.5 sacks and also an interception. Watt also had 4
forced fumbles. Watt had 5 total touchdowns.

Offensive Player of the Year - Andrew Luck
Luck passed for 40 touchdowns in 2014. He led the league in the category. Luck also passed for 4,761 yards and had a passer rating of 96.5. Luck also did some damage on the ground.

MVP - Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers was clearly the best Quarterback in the league. He passed for 38 touchdowns and threw just 5 interceptions. He threw for 4,381 yards and added a dynamic by scrambling and getting out of the pocket. He hardly turned the ball over and was easily the best player. He led the Packers to another division title.

By Peter Vitella 

@Realpete13 

Fantasy Football 2015.... Already ?

This NFL Season is not even over yet but let's take a look at the top 15 players at QB , RB , and WR for fantasy going into next season.

Quarterback
1. A. Rodgers
2. A. Luck
3. T. Brady
4. P. Manning
5. D. Brees
6. T. Romo
7. M. Ryan
8. R. Wilson
9. M. Stafford
10. P. Rivers
11. E. Manning
12. C. Newton
13. B. Roethlisberger
14. J. Flacco
15. N. Foles

WR
1. D. Thomas
2. A. Brown
3. D. Bryant
4. J. Nelson
5. C. Johnson
6. O. Beckham Jr
7. J. Jones
8. A. Green
9. T. Hilton
10. A. Jeffrey
11. E. Sanders
12. B. Marshall
13. R. Cobb
14. J. Maclin
15. M. Evans

  

RB
1. L. Bell
2. J. Charles
3. M. Lynch
4. D. Murray
5. E. Lacey
6. A. Foster
7. L. McCoy
8. C. Anderson
9. M. Forte
10. J. Hill
11. A. Ellington
12. A. Peterson
13. A. Morris
14. J. Bell
15. J. Forsett

By Peter Vitella
@realpete13

Top 20 early relief pitcher rankings

Top 20 relief pitcher ranks 1. C. Kimberl 2. A. Wood 3. T. Ross 4. C. Carrasco 5. D. Robertson 6. D. Betances 7. K. Jansen 8. A. Chapman 9. G. Holland 10. H. Street 11. M. Malanceon 12. C. Allen 13. S. Ceshek 14. D. Storen 15. J. Megee 16. Z. Britton 17. F. Rodriguez 18. A. Doolittle 19. G. Perkins 20. D. Pomerantz

The Top 5 Scorers in the NBA

1.  Kevin Durant

      Although he is averaging the most points this year, Kevin Durant is the best scorer in the NBA. He has a great jump shot that is very hard to block due to his high release. He also is a great 3-point shooter. Durant has 4 scoring titles over the course of his short career.  He can also run the floor like a guard.

2.  LeBron James

     LeBron James is an amazing scorer.  He is one of the best players in the league at driving to the basket.  He can score in the post and off the dribble. He is very strong and could easily score in the paint.  LeBron is a team player and passes the ball a lot.  Even with all his passing, he still is averaging the second most points in the league.

3. Stephen Curry

     Stephen Curry is a great scorer. He is the best 3-point shooter in the league.  His strongest offensive attribute is his jump shot.  Curry also averages 8 assists per game in addition to his average of 22.8 points per game. He shoots a little under 50%, which is a very impressive statistic. He is having an MVP like season.

4.  James Harden 

      This lefty shooting guard can score the basketball in many ways.  His most effective way to score is when he drives to the left and draws the foul. In addition to that, he is a great shooter. He has a good 3-point shot too. As of now, he is leading the NBA in scoring.

5.  Carmelo Anthony

     Carmelo Anthony has been a great scorer for many years.  He is great at drawing fouls with his famous pump fake. He also can score in the post and at the 3 point line.  Over the course of his career, he has won the scoring title one time in the 2012-2013 season.

The Hall of Fame Must Display All History

A Museum is a place that should show history. History whether it is good or bad. If something monumental happens it usually becomes part of a museum. So why do we treat the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown differently? Well the truth is we do and we don't. Gaylord Perry has a plaque in the Hall of Fame and was elected by the writers. Perry admitted he cheated throughout his career using a spit ball. Players like Willie Mays said that they have used amphetamines which is not a big deal , however it is a suspend-able offense now. The history of players like Alex Rodriguez , Barry Bonds , Pete Rose , and Mark McGwire are all throughout the museum. As someone who visits the Hall of Fame every year I know that items from their careers are there because I have seen them. This building is a museum , simple as that.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=lDJB_7hVpRs

If I took my child or anyone for that matter and wanted them to learn about baseball I would want them to know about the steroid era. I would want them to know that the era was tainted but also had some of the best players we have ever seen. If you took your child to the Hall of Fame and they went to the section about records , I bet there will be a lot of questions. They would ask why does this guy Barry Bonds have more homer runs than anyone and does not have a plaque. They would ask if they don't want to give him a plaque how come they have photos , and equipment of the guy all over the museum. Those would be all valid questions. We are fine with putting a bat of A-Rod's in a case and saying he has the most grand slams ever, but we don't want to explain his career. We don't want to say he was one of the best ever , however did admit to using some banned substances? 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FcNNzNExJUw

Another question that can be asked is why do some writers say they will vote for David Ortiz. Ortiz has been known to be involved in steroids , however he said he did nothing wrong and we just forgot all about it. The fans in Boston didn't care and why should they. This guy has been great. He had helped them win three rings so why should they cast him out. They shouldn't because chances are guys fielding the balls he was hitting were using and guys pitching to him were using. Many guys used substances or are believed to have use substances but that doesn't mean they were not great players.

In Cincinnati the Reds have the all time hit king. He was banned for baseball for gambling but I got news for you Major League Baseball does not vote for the Hall or really have a say to who goes in. So why should we keep him out? Are we trying to scare others from going against baseball. I really could not tell you. I do know that the Hall of  Fame is a museum. If you are banned from baseball that means you can't mange or play or coach. It does not mean you can't have a plaque in a Museum.  Many writers say that it is not fair that he is not on the ballot , well than take a stand. Do your best work to get him on the ballot. You can keep Rose banned from baseball but you can't take away his accomplishments and he should have a plaque. It should acknowledge he bet on baseball. Rose is the all time hits leader. 

In 1998 baseball fans witnessed one of the most exciting seasons ever. Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa were involved in a home run derby that went on the whole season. During the 98 season both guys would go crazy hitting homers and both pass Roger Maris. McGwire would ultimately finish the season with 70. Many baseball fans called it the best season ever and the season that saved baseball. It is clearly shown in the Hall of Fame however we do not want to give them plaques. I just will never understand the logic in it. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=IazEIF0cACY

The Hall of Fame needs to be able to show off every era. Babe Ruth played in an era where no Latino , black , or Asian players , was it fair of course not. Today baseball has so many different pitchers who can make an appearance in a game. Games change and so do times. Every era baseball is extremely different. The era will never be forgotten or different if we keep these players out of the Hall of Fame. Joe Torre and Tony Larussa are both in the Hall of Fame as managers and they benefited a ton from having steroid players on there rosters. The circumstances are the circumstances. History is history. Good or bad , you should be learning from a museum. If you are going to have record books with these guys names and artifacts in display cases from them I don't see how it is different from a plaque. If a player did something wrong it should definitely say that on the plaque but I think they should get a plaque. 

Throwback Thursday: The Tom Brady and Randy Moss Connection

Location: New England, Masschusetts

Scenario: 2007-2008 NFL Season

Involved: Tom Brady and Randy Moss

Before the Season

During the 2006 NFL Season, the New England Patriots were a great team. QB Tom Brady and RB Corey Dillon led the team on offense, and DE Richard Seymour, LB Tedy Bruschi, and S Rodney Harrison led the team of defense. Their roster had several holes, specifically at WR and TE. The Patriots still managed to finish with a 12-4 record and placed 1st in the AFC East. They were the 4th seed in the playoffs. They went on to defeat the New York Jets and the San Diego Chargers, advancing to the AFC Championship Game. They blew at 21-3 lead to Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. They eventually lost 38-34. After the season, big changes were expected. 

During the Season

In the offseason, the Pats traded a 4th round pick for none other than WR Randy Moss. Moss would immediatly be the #1 receiver and Brady's favorite target. His 6'4" frame and his 4.25 forty yard dash had been feared around the league. The Pats also signed Wes Welker and Donte Stallworth to add depth to the WR position. With all of the new additions, the season was all set up for greatness. 

To start the season, Moss and Brady connected for the first of many touchdown passes. In Moss' Patriot debut, Moss finished with 9 receptions, 183 yards, and 1 touchdown. Things were off to a really hot start in New England. They were even early favorites to win the Super Bowl. In the following 3 weeks, Moss caught a total of 22 passes and 6 touchdowns, for a whopping 322 yards. Brady, on the other hand, had already thrown for 1,118 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. Already, a quarter of the way into the season, the Pats were 4-0 and were on pace for many records. 

In Week 5, Moss cooled down and had only 3 receptions for just 46 yards. Brady, however, kept his high level of play going with 3 touchdown passes. The following week, Moss got going again catching another touchdown pass. Brady, already an MVP candidate, threw for 388 yards and 5 touchdowns. In Week 7, Brady had another stellar performance, throwing for 354 yards and a season-high 6 touchdowns. Moss caught 2 off these touchdown passes, and was responsible for 122 of Brady's passing yards. That next week, Brady only threw for 3 touchdowns, but still managed to rush for 2. Moss caught 1 of those touchdown passes. The Pats were 8-0, with a big rematch against the Indianapolis Colts next week.

In Week 9, the Patriots would be up against their toughest game of the season, the Indianapolis Colts. Tom Brady and Peyton Manning would duke it out once again, this time in Indianapolis. Brady had a tough time finding his groove, throwing 2 interceptions. Brady had thrown only 2 interceptions coming into the game. Brady and Moss, however, would rally their team to a 24-20 victory. Brady finished with 255 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. Moss would finish with 9 receptions, 145 yards, and 1 touchdown. Brady and Moss, already on record-setting paces, were mid-season MVP candidates. Entering their Week 10 bye, Brady had thrown for 2,686 yards, 33 touchdowns, and just 4 interceptions. Moss had 56 receptions, 924 yards, and 12 touchdowns. The New England Patriots were also undeafeated, holding a 9-0 record.

Coming off of the bye, Brady and Moss single-handily had their best games of the season. The Pats would rout the Buffalo Bills by a score of 56-10. Brady threw for 373 yards and 5 touchdowns. Moss' final statline would go like this: 10 receptions, 128 yards, and 4 touchdowns. The Pats would ride this moment into Weeks 11 and 12, with two close wins. Brady would combine for 637 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Moss would combine for only 9 receptions, 77 yards, and just 1 touchdown. In Week 13, both Brady and Moss would return to mid-season form, with Brady throwing 4 touchdowns, 2 of them to Moss. The following week, Moss and Brady would go through their worst game of the season, against Darrelle Revis and the New York Jets. The Pats would squeak out a 20-10 victory. Moss was quiet the whole game, only catching 5 passes for 79 yards. Brady would also struggle, throwing for 140 yards and 1 interception. They still found a way to win.

In Weeks 16 and 17, Moss and Brady would finish on high notes. Moss combined for another 11 catches, 150 yards, and 4 touchdowns. Brady would combine for 571 yards, 5 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. This would close out a perfect regular season, going 16-0. Brady would win the MVP award, with final stats of 4,806 passing yards, a once single-season record of 50 touchdowns, and a mere 8 interceptions. Moss would also finish an MVP candidate, with 98 receptions, 1,493 yards, and record of 23 touchdowns. Now, the Pats would enter the playoffs as the AFC's #1 seed. 

After the Season

The Patriots would advance all the way to Super Bowl XLII. Moss was nowhere to be found in such playoffs, only totaling 7 receptions, 98 yards, and 1 Super Bowl touchdown. Brady continued his excellence, leading his team into the Super Bowl. However, Brady and the Pats would fall apart against the New York Giants. Brady went 29-48, 266 yards, and 1 touchdown. The New England Patriots couldn't pull off the perfect season, going 18-1. 

Three years later, the Moss and Brady tandem would split up. Moss was traded back to the Minnesota Vikings. Brady would go on to cement his Patriot legacy, while Moss's career went into a downward spiral. 

This duo can be considered one of the best QB-WR seasons ever. The fact that Brady turned to Moss whenever ever he needed to was truly remarkable. I think no other players could affect a game the way Moss and Brady did in '07. I also think that this tandem is not talked about as much is because of the fact they couldn't go 19-0 as well as the duo's longevity. If they would have stuck together for more years, they would have been recognized even more. Was this the best QB to WR combo ever? That is for us to debate.

Follow Me on Twitter

@_SwagggyT

Which Free Agents can Still Make an Impact

There have been a ton of trades and free agent moves so far this offseason , but there are some players who are still available,  who can make an impact on some big league clubs. Let's see the best possible landing spots for these players. Who should sign them.

James Shields to the Blue Jays - the Jays have a ton of bats and Shields would make a great addition to a rotation already having Ra Dickey , Marcus Stroman , and Mark Buehrle. However they will have to give him at least $75 million.

Rafael Soriano to the Tigers - Joe Nathan struggled last year and Soriano is a veteran reliever. The great part about Soriano is he can pitch in both the eighth and ninth inning. Even if Nathan closes he adds depth.


Gordon Beckham to the Brewers - Beckham was once a highly touted player. The Brewers will start Scooter Gennet but Beckham is a solid backup who may just need some new scenery and a new league.

Francisco Rodriguez to the Padres - Joaquin  Benoit is slated to be the closer but has never had dominant years at the position. He is best served as an eight inning guy. K- Rod had a great year and the Padres can get him on a one or two year deal.

Casey Jansen to The Blue Jays - He had success with them before so why not keep him. You need a closer to be competitive and the Jays have a pretty good team. Closer by committee is not the way to go.

Chris Young to the Angels - The Angels can use a guy who can start when he has to and relive when he has to. He had a excellent year in the AL West last year and will just add some depth.Gordon Beckham to the Brewers - Beckham was once a highly touted player. The Brewers will start Scooter Gennet but Beckham is a solid backup who may just need some new scenery and a new league.

Rickie Weeks to the Angels - Weeks has had some monster seasons but has not been to good of late. He may also benefit from a scene change and can help the Angels who gave up Howie Kendrick.

Ryan Vogelsong to the Astros - Vogelsong is a solid pitcher and can bring some veteran presence to a young baseball team.

Carlos Villanueva to the Brewers - They traded away Yovani Gallardo and just may want a reliable guy who can eat some innings.

Brian Wilson to the Nationals - The Nationals have made some big moves but also lost Tyler Clippard and most likely Rafael Soriano. Wilson has had some arm troubles but can be signed on the cheap. If he bounces back he can be great.

Joba Chamberlain to the Marlins - The Marlins have a shot at the playoffs. Joba showed flashes of great pitching last year. The Marlins can use an experienced arm in the bullpen.


Ichiro to the Marlins - The Marlins have been in contact with him. He is another guy who can bring veteran presence to a young team. He can also still run especially in that big ballpark.

By Peter Vitella
@Realpete13

The Nationals are your World Series Favorites

 The Washington Nationals signed Max Scherzer to a seven year deal making one of baseballs best teams in baseball that much better. Personally I think the Nationals are the clear favorite to win the World Series and the clear cut favorite in the National League. The Nats have some good hitting and fielding but the pitching is just so over the top. The Nationals will probably will have Tanner Roark shift to the bullpen despite having an era under three. The rotation if nothing changes will be Scherzer , Stephen Strasburg , Jordan Zimmerman , Doug Fister and Gio Gonzalez.

 The lineup is a good one also as the Nationals have power at both corners and from their shortstop. They also have a speedy and powerful outfield. This should be the year Bryce Harper fully breaks out. I think the Nats need to make one bullpen move since Tyler Clippard is gone. However if Roark shifts to the bullpen perhaps he can play the role of a seventh or eight inning guy. Nationals starters all had great years last year as Scherzer era was at 3.15, Jordan Zimmermann at 2.66, Doug Fister at 2.41 and Stephen Strasburg at 3.14. Gio was at 3.57 and Roark who looks to be headed to the pen had a 2.85 era. On paper the Nats rotation is way better than last years champion Giants and better than the Dodgers who have Kershaw and Greinke.

Here is the projected rotation

1. M. Scherzer 

2. S. Strasburg 

3. J. Zimmerman 

4. D. Fister 

5. G. Gonzalez 

The lineup projects like this 

1. D. Span

2. A. Rendon 

3. J. Werth 

4. R. Zimmerman 

5. B. Harper 

6. I. Desmond 

7. W. Ramos 

8. Y. Escobar 

By Peter Vitella 

@Realpete13

Tom Brady is Onto his Sixth Super

Tom Brady is headed back to the Super Bowl. It is Tom Brady's sixth Super Bowl. Brady is 3-2 in his Super Bowl Career. His last two Super Bowl appearances were losses. Brady's first three were wins. Brady won the Super Bowl MVP against the Rams and Panthers. He also helped beat the Eagles. Brady is already regarded as one of the best Quarterbacks of all time. A Super Bowl win can make him regarded as number one. A loss would put him at 3-3 in his Super Bowl career. The Pats routed the Colts yesterday and are off to face the defending champion Seattle Seahawks.

February 3rd , 2002

Tom Brady passed for just 145 yards and a touchdown. However he still was the Super Bowl MVP and the Patriots defeated the Rams 20-17. It was Brady's first Super Bowl appearance and win. The Patriots were heavy underdogs against the Rams , however with the game tied at 17 points Brady drove down and setup the Pats for a game winning field goal. 

February 1st , 2004

The Patriots defeated the Panthers 32-29 and Tom Brady was named the Super Bowl MVP once again. Brady passed for 354 yards and three touchdowns. Tom Brady had another game ending drive and with 4 seconds left Adam Vinatieri kicked another game winning field goal. 

February  6th , 2005

Tom Brady and the Patriots defeated the Eagles. It was Brady's third Super Bowl ring. With the win Brady went to 9-0 at that point in his NFL postseason career. Brady had 236 yards and two touchdowns and he connected 11 times with Deion Branch. This win marks ten years since Brady's last Super Bowl win.

February 3rd , 2008

The Patriots had the chance at a perfect season. They had the chance to go 19-0. The Pats were heavy favorites to win the game however they didn't. They lost to the New York Giants who were not really even given a shot. The Pats were victimized by the greatest play in NFL history , when Eli Manning escaped a sack and connected with David Tyree on a big pass. Manning then tossed a touchdown to Plaxico Burress. Brady had no answer for the Giants pass rush and the offense was held to just 14 points. The Pats were upset by the Giants 17-14. 

February 5th , 2012 

The Pats and Giants were set for the rematch. Tom Brady and the Patriots had a chance to put the Giants away but he and Wes Welker could not connect on a first down catch. The Giants would have another game winning drive led by Eli Manning and the defense would hold the Patriots off on the final drive. Just like Brady , Eli would win his second Super Bowl MVP. The Giants won this game 21-17. 

On February 1st , 2015 I believe Tom Brady will end a 10 year Super Bowl drought and win his fourth ring. Brady has been to the playoffs almost every year in his career but just has not been able to win the Super Bowl since 2005. I think he gets the job done and wins another ring.

By Peter Vitella 

Follow my twitter @realpete13

Recap of the NFL Championship Round

Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks

                   After the Packers led by 19-7 going into the 4th quarter. Then a Marshawn Lynch touchdown made it a 5 point game after a pass from Russell Wilson who had 4 interceptions in the game.Then with 2:00 minutes left in the game a onside kick by Seahawks kicker Steven Hauschka that hit off TE of the packers Brandon Bostick hands and then the Seahawks recovered.The Seahawks capitalized with another touchdown from stud running back Marshawn Lynch.That gave the Seahawks a 20-19 point lead and then the Seahawks completed the 2 point conversion that gave the Seahawks a 3 point lead.But then with about 1:30 left in the game the Packers got a field goal to tie the game.Then to OT the Seahawks won the toss and scored a touchdown on there first possession on a beautiful throw by Wilson to WR Kearse. The Seahawks advance to there second straight SuperBowl.

Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots

                    As the Patriots overpowered the Colts after beating them 45-7.The Pats beat the Colts for the 3rd straight time in 2 years. also the Pats looked like they were bullying them and playing more aggressive then them at beating them at all phases of the game.Such as running the ball and playing tight nose to nose defense and pressing on the line of scrimmage which gave Andrew luck no time to throw as he got pressured and threw many interceptions in the game.Going back to the Patriots running game led by Lagarrette Blount who went off and ran for on 30 carries with 148 yards and 3 TDS
.

Follow me on Twitter@EvanGrubin

Game Preview: New England Patriots vs Indianapolis Colts

Time- 6:30 pm

Location- Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts


The AFC Championship will take place in Foxborough as the Patriots host the Colts and the winner goes to the Super Bowl. The Colts have been the underdog in their last two games but still found a way to beat their highly rated opponents in the Cincinnati Bengals and the Denver Broncos. Quarterback Andrew Luck looks to be coming into his own as he had led and carried this team this far. Upstart players Donte Moncrief and Dan "Boom" Herron have also helped Luck carry the load for the team. The Colts have had a bad track record against the Patriots but both teams will forget about that and look to go to Arizona.

The Patriots will be playing in their fourth straight AFC Championship game and their 9th overall. This is an experienced team but as coach Bill Belichick says, "Experience doesn't matter." Quarterback Tom Brady has been a chameleon of sorts as he has adjusted to any situation that the Patriots offense over comes. The Patriots can throw the ball 50 times or run the ball 50 times and the team will find a way to win. The defense has stepped up of late as cornerback Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner have helped solidify this defense.

Key Players
Patriots- Darrelle Revis, Cornerback: This will be Revis's third AFC Championship but maybe his best chance to get to his first Super Bowl. After a long career of being on mediocre teams, Revis came to New England and had proved himself. Revis has shutdown great receivers this season and he will be put up against either Reggie Wayne or T.Y. Hilton which should be a great matchup either way.

Colts- Andrew Luck, Quarterback: Andrew Luck will be playing in his first AFC Championship game and he will look to take down another legend in Tom Brady. Luck has carried this team with 40 touchdowns this season and for the Colts to win, Luck will have to continue playing on a top level.

Predictions
The Patriots come in as the favorite but don't count the Colts out. Luck will have his team fired up but the situation might get to Luck. Expect Brady to not throw a lot and for running backs LeGarrette Blount, Jonas Gray, and Shane Vereen to carry the load. In a wet and cold Gillette Stadium the Patriots will come out on top 24-21 and advance to the Super Bowl.

Three Keys to Victory: Indianapolis Colts

Last week, the Indianapolis Colts defeated the Denver Broncos in one of the AFC Divisional Games. The Colts controlled most of the game, much at the expense of Peyton Manning. The Colts defense definitely stepped up and stopped most, if not all, of the Denver offense. The Colts also did something the Broncos didn't, and that was move the ball downfield efficiently. Led by none other than Andrew Luck, the Colts threw the ball precisely, ran the ball dynamically, and protected Luck perfectly. In order to beat the Patriots, the Colts will have to play a very similar game. Here's 3 keys to victory for the Indianapolis Colts.

1: Keep Tom Brady Off of the Field

If the Colts can successfully keep Brady off of the field, the Colts could definitly win this game. Brady is 103-17 at home in his career as a starter, which means he is pretty damn good. Obviously, he will be hard to stop. The powerful Colt offense must take some pressure off of the defense, much like they did against the Denver Broncos. With the Colts offense gaining momentum drive-after-drive, the defense will build off of it as well. The Colts must also manufacture long, time-consuming drives. In the fourth quarter of last week's game, the Colts went on a 13 play, 54 yard drive for 8:14. This resulted in a field goal to ice the game. They can put up more time-consuming drives by running the ball well and by throwing conservative passes. Once you throw in the medium and deep ball passes, you can form an unstoppable offense, an offense that will keep the 5x AFC Champion and 3x Super Bowl winner off of the field. 

2: Cut Down on the Turnovers

Obviously, the Colts have had a tough time with turnovers. Turnovers have been expected with this young team all year. This leads to our next key to victory: cut down on the turnovers. Luck has been terrible on the road against New England throughout his short career. Luck has thrown 7 interceptions in only 2 matchups in Foxborough. Most notably, Luck opened up last year's AFC Divisional Game with a Pick-Six, only 79 seconds into the game. Luck must make correct reads, for he will have a ball-hawking secondary with the likes of CB Darrelle Revis and CB Brandon Browner waiting for the right moment. However, it is not only Luck coughing up the ball. RB Boom Herron and RB Zurlon Tipton must take good care of the ball. Herron has had a history of fumbles, including 2 in the AFC Wild Card game against Cincinnati. The Colts still have faith in Herron, for he is very athletic and a big play-maker. If the Colts win this game, it will be because they didn't turnover the ball.

3: Win Your Matchups Up-Front

Lastly, the Colts will have to win all off their offensive and defensive line matchups to win this game. To start, the Colts offense line has struggled during the regular season, but they have really stepped up during the playoffs. Last week, Luck was not sacked once, mainly because of great play from T Anthony Castonzo and Rookie G Jack Mewhort. They did a great job by giving Luck time and protection to roll out of the pocket. They will have tough matchups this week with NT Vince Wilfork and LB Jaime Collins. The Pats have athletic lineman and linebackers, so the Colts must put up a great performance. Now, we switch sides as the Patriot offensive line has protected Brady all year long. Earlier in the season against the Colts, the Pats offensive line blocked for Jonas Gray, who put up record numbers. Gray rushed for 201 yards and 4 touchdowns on Sunday Night Football. The Colts defensive line has been shaky all year. However, they stepped up when they needed to last week. The Colts held CJ Anderson to only 80 yards. 

Whatever the outcome of this game is, it will be one for the ages. Will Brady pass the torch to Luck? Or will Brady continue his legacy for one more year? We will just have to wait and find out. 

Follow Me on Twitter

@_SwagggyT

NFL Playoff Preview

Playoff Picks

NFC Championship Game: Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks

Prediction: Seattle Seahawks 24 Green Bay Packers 17

      I think the Seahawks will win this game for a few reasons. Due to the weather conditions, I think Seattle is better fit because they can run the ball better than the Packers. Also, I think Quarterback Russell Wilson will make some big throws down the stretch in this game. I think this offense is good for this particular weather. The X factor for this game is Running Back Marshawn Lynch and I think he will have a great game. Also, I think Seattle's Wide Recievers are going to be key in this game too, I think on third down they are going to be big factors in the passing game. I think Seattle's defense has their hands full for this matchup because they are going up against Packers Quarterback Aaron Rodgers. I think the Legion of Boom definitely has to step up in this game. I think Cornerback Richard Sherman is going to have lock up Packers Wide Receiver Jordy Nelson. Also, Seattle will need to stop Packer's Running Back Eddie Lacy and if they do this they will be successful.

AFC Championship Game: Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots

Prediction: New England Patriots 31 Indianapolis Colts 21

       I think the Patriots will win this game for a few reasons. Due to the weather conditions, I think the Patriots will have the better running game with Running Back LeGarrette Blount. I think he will be the X factor in this matchup. I think the Patriots offense is going to have to feed off him in this game. But I think that Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady is going to need Tight End Rob Gronkowski to get open over the middle and in the flats. Also, I think the Patriots are going to need Wide Receivers Julian Edelman and Brandon LaFell to have big games. Also, I think Wide Receiver Danny Amendola needs to get separation over the middle and needs to win his individual matchup off the ball if the Colt's defense is playing man. I think Patriot's Cornerback Darelle Revis is going to be the X factor because he is going to be matched up with Colt's Wide Receiver T.Y. Hilton. I think the Patriot's front 7 is going to need to contain Colt's Quarterback Andrew Luck in the pocket. I think Patriot's Defensive Tackle Vince Wilfork will have a great game and he will dominate the line of scrimmage for the Patriot's defense.

Follow me on Twitter:

@JordanGrubin23

The Mid Season Rookie of the Year and my Top 3 Candidates for the NBA Rookie of the Year Award

As we approach the middle of the season I would like to pick the mid season NBA rookie of the year and rate my top 3 candidates.

1. Andrew Wiggins

     I'm my opinion Andrew Wiggins is undoubtedly the mid season rookie of the year and he is on pace to win the actual Rookie of the Year award. He leads the rookies in points and is in the top 10 in rebounds, steals, assists, and blocks. He is an all around player who was off to a slow start but now he picked up the slack as the season is going by. All he needs to do is work on his shot, and he will be a potential MVP candidate in a few years. He is only 19 years old and has plenty of time until he reaches his prime. He is also a great defender, which is one of his strongest attributes.  

2. Nerlens Noel

      This 6 foot 11 rookie has put together a pretty good season so far. He leads rookies in rebounds, blocks, and steals. He is extremely athletic for his height and can get up and down the court with ease. The fact that he is athletic can help him become a great big man in this league. If he keeps working hard he could possibly be as good Hakeem Olajuwon, who was a great athletic big man. Nerlens is a great defender and it is only a matter of time before he starts to put up big point totals. His lack of scoring has kept him out of the #1 spot on this list.  

3. Jusuf Nurkic

      This list of rookies contains guys 20 years or under. It's great to know that it a few years the 3 of these guys will be dominating the league. Nurkic is a great rebounder and shot blocker.  His averages don't show his best ability. He is definitely the best shot blocking and rebounding rookie this year, although Nerlens Noel averages the most in both those categories. He reminds me of Andre Drummond in his rookie year. They both don't score a lot but they put up great rebounding and shot blocking numbers. All Nurkic needs to do is score, which seems to be a problem with all rookies this year except with Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker before Jabari was ruled out of the season with a torn ACL. 

2015 NFL Championship Round Preview

NFL Preview

Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks

     This going to be a very close game in Seattle on Sunday. The Seahawks have to win the game with there defense led by the Legion of Boom. And that great front 7 led by Bobby Wagner, they love getting to the Quarterback and playing more physical and faster than the opponent. They will have to play physical with a great like Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers still has a lingering calf injury that effected him in the first half of the Cowboy game last week. But the cowboy defense is not like the Seattle defense who has been red hot since Week 15 of the NFL regular season. This week they will have to get to the ball out quick so the Seahawks don't get too much pressure. The Seahawks will have to stop Rodgers and Eddy Lacy who played well against the Seahawks week 1 until he suffered a concussion. So if the packers can run the ball effectively they have a chance but that injury that Rodgers has a big thing in this game they will have to avoid the pressure and try to scramble our of the pocket but he can't with how fast that Seahawks defense is.

Prediction: Seahawks beat Packers 27-17

Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots

         The Colts are playing the Pats for another playoff. But this time it's not Brady vs Peyton it's Luck vs Brady. So let's get in to the game, I believe that Boom Herron will have to have to have a big game so they give the Colts a chance to win. Also Andrew Luck will have to stretch out the field and make the corners of the Pats run a little. They have quick receivers such as T.Y Hilton  and Donte Moncrief  and Reggie Wayne but he is mostly in to block for Boom Herron and CO. On the other hand, the pats have a good Quarterback to named Tom Brady. Brady played great last week as he threw it to many receivers. But the Colts must stop Rob Gronkowski,Brandon Lafell and Julian Edelman. They have to try to put pressure on Brady so he can confused and the looks that they give have to be very differs every time. They now have to stop. The Pats have to get physical to win the game and that starts with a ruahing attack and trying to get pressure on Luck.

Prediction: Colts beat Patriots 35-32

Follow me in Twitter
@EvanGrubin

Championship Week Picks

The Picks

Packers vs Seahawks - The Packers played a close one with the Cowboys as Aaron Rodgers hobbled through most of the game. He still had an Aaron Rodgers like game however just minus the ability to run out of the pocket. Rodgers will need to have a big game if the Packers are to beat the Hawks. The leg injury is a major concern right now. The Seahawks looked very good as they battled the Panthers. The defense was dominant and Russell Wilson hit on some big throws. The best part about this game is that the two best teams are in it. I think the Seahawks will get the win at home and head to back to back Super Bowls. I was so torn between this game. Had Rodgers not been hobbled I would have gone Packers.
Seahawks 24-21

Colts vs Patriots - I had the Patriots going to the Super Bowl at the beginning of the year and picked
them again when the playoffs started. I think they are going to win the Super Bowl. The Colts have played the Patriots three times under Andrew Luck they are 0-3. Not only are they 0-3 but have lost by at least three touchdowns. I don't see the Colts as the team that can beat the Patriots. The Colts looked good against Denver but they made a ton of mistakes that a much better team would take advantage of.
Patriots 34-24

By Peter Vitella 

@@Realpete13