Green Bay Clinches NFC Home Field While New England One Win Away From AFC Homefield

Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers share some common things : both are Superbowl winning MVP quarterbacks, each wear number 12, both are from California, each grew up as 49er fans and more importantly each are having a MVP caliber regular season. Sunday night Rodgers and the Packers bounced back from 1st loss of the season last week to Kansas City to defeat Chicago. The victory clinched home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. Meanwhile New England came back at home on Saturday vs. Miami to win. That leaves the Patriots one win away from back to back years of home field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. The month of January will determine if these two quarterbacks meet during the first Sunday in February.

Chris Paul Trade To The Clippers Lead NBA Transactions

Chris Paul was traded from New Orleans to the Los Angeles Lakers, that was vetoed by NBA owners. Chris Paul was traded from New Orleans to the Los Angeles Clippers. Now he'll lead a team that has Blake Griffin to a potential playoff spot. Baron Davis is set to sign with the Knicks, New York also acquired Tyson Chandler. While Chandler former team the defending champion Dallas Mavericks got Vince Carter to sign on while trading for Lamar Odom. Miami inked Shane Battier. The list goes on and on now that the NBA is back from it's lockout. No one knows at this point where Dwight Howard will land.

New York New York Bad Sunday Before Facing Each Other Saturday

Eli Manning led the 1st place New York Giants into week 15 home game vs. Washington on a high after defeating Dallas the week before. Marc Sanchez lead the Jets into Philadelphia riding a 3 game win streak. The Redskins defeated the Giants, while the Eagles defeated the Jets. Neither New York team showed up Sunday losing by double digits. Now next Saturday at Metlife Stadium both New York teams will battle for their playoff lives. Eli Manning and Marc Sanchez come off 2 interception games. The Giants could still win the NFC East or not make the playoffs at all, while the Jets could contend for an AFC Wildcard spot or not make the playoffs at all. Both quarterbacks will need help from their supporting cast on offense. Hakeem Nicks early on dropped a wide open touchdown pass, which set the tone for the day, as the Giants were swept by Washington this season. Marc Sanchez hit Santonio Holmes with a pass that the Eagles forced a fumble which led to a score, then saw his wideout juggle a pass that ld to an interception. This game and it's outcome will be very interesting.

Upset Saturday Indiana Buzzer Beats #1 Kentucky While Kansas Defeats #2 Ohio State

The beauty of college basketball anyone can beat anyone at anytime or anywhere. Saturday proved just that. Watford the Indiana basketball player, nailed a 3 point shot as time expired to upset the top ranked Kentucky Wildcats by one point. The crowd went crazy in Bloomington, Indiana. Kentucky lead by two with the game clock winding down, however failed to close out on the three point attempt and it cost the Wildcats. For the young Hoosiers this will be a confidence booster and resume builder in terms of NCAA selection committee. For Kentucky which is a young team themselves, it will be a learning experience for those guys as well. Ohio State traveled to Lawrence, Kansas to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes. Unfortunately, OSU didn't have their big man Jared Sullinger, it cost them dearly as they lost by double digits in Allen Fieldhouse.

Xavier / Cincinnati Brawl Equals Suspensions

2011 Crosstown Rival Shootout Xavier 76, Cincinnati 53. However the Cintas Center was turned into a squared circle instead of a basketball court. The two teams that represent the Atlantic 10 and Big East exchanged words throughout the game. However with nine seconds remaining a fight in front of the Bearcats bench took place. Cincy big man Yancey Gates threw punches including one that landed on the side of the head of Musketeer Kenny Frease, who left the floor with an ice pack on his blood eye. Gates will be suspended for 6 games. Both head coaches and universities absolutely were embarrassed, after the nationally televised game.

2012-13 NHL Scheduled For ReAlignment

Professional sports is truly a business. Each league does what needs to be done in order to make additional money. The NHL is no different. Starting next season each NHL team will be divided into 4 different conferences. Each team will play conference opponents 3 times at home and 3 times away. Each team will play at least 1 home and home series with the rest of the league. Realignment is mainly based on geographic mapping, which eliminates long travel for the most part. Excellent for the fans they will have the chance to see each NHL team come to their home arena at least once. Maybe even travel to see their team on the road, one example would be a conference that features Philadelphia and Pittsburgh or another conference that features Los Angeles and Anaheim.

BCS More Like BS

LSU defeated Alabama earlier in the season 9-6 in a defensive struggle. Oklahoma State probably should have made the BCS Championship Game out of the Big 12 conference. However the pair of SEC West teams will meet for the National Championship in January. Oklahoma State like Alabama is a 1 loss team, however the Crimson Tide will be playing for a championship not the Cowboys. The debate this year will go on year after year until something is figured out, in terms of putting the best pair of teams together to play for a title. Hopefully more than 15 points will be scored in New Orleans next month.

Jacksonville Fires Del Rio Also The Team Is Being Sold

Jack Del Rio has been the Jacksonville Jaguars head coach since 2003, however he paid on Tuesday for not making the NFL playoffs since 2007. The Jaguars are currently 3-8 and playing with a rookie starting quarterback. More importantly the team was sold and now Del Rio was fired. This is probably the first of many NFL head coaches being fired, he's the first coach to be fired in season during the 2011 campaign. Del Rio was a former NFL linebacker and assistant coach prior to becoming a head coach. Many wonder where do the Jaguars go from here, from a franchise standpoint. Could the Jaguars be on the move to another city, who knows. The team struggles to fill their stadium during home games and have suffered through several local blackouts on television during home games.

Syracuse Fires Assistant Baketball Coach Bernie Fine After Molestation Charges

Bernie Fine was hired by Syracuse as an assistant men's basketball coach in 1976. Head coach Jim Boeheim made Fine his lead assistant. Now weeks after the Penn State football molestation charges, Syracuse has been hit with the same news. About a week after being put on administrative leave, Fine was fired this week. Several adults who were young men at the time of these alleged molestation acts, finally came out to tell their story. One young man was a ball boy who says he was molested. Similar to Penn State, now Syracuse has plenty of media on campus to cover the breaking news. The former Syracuse ball boy was turned away in 2002 by the police when he tried to tell his side of the story. Day by day the stories get more gruesome. Let's see what the future holds in this case and for head coach Jim Boeheim.

Eli Manning's New York Football Giants Have Chance To Put Away Vince Young Philadelphia Eagle Dream Team

The Philadelphia Eagles signed quarterback Vince Young this off season to backup Michael Vick, during training camp Young labeled his new team the 'Dream Team' a label this has stuck with the under achieving 3-6 football team throughout the season. Philadelphia basically after losing to Arizona and backup quarterback John Skelton at home last week have been left for dead in terms of postseason play. Vick broke two ribs in that game and has not practiced all week. Young gets his chance Sunday Night at MetLife Stadium to back his Dream Team statement up. Eli Manning has led an injured Giant team to a 6-3 record and first place in the NFC East, including a 29-16 win in Philadelphia during week 3. The Giants could kill all the Eagles slim playoff hopes by giving them their 7Th lost prior to Thanksgiving. I'm sure in New York after last season Miracle At The Meadowlands II, it would be extremely gratifying. Young will be making his first start since November 2010 as a Titan, he threw one pass this season an interception versus Washington. We'll see what he has vs. New York, meanwhile he's 2-0 lifetime versus the G Men. Note to Andy Reid run the football with Mc Coy since the Eagles will be without Vick and maybe Maclin. Note to Giants finish this team off while you have the chance.

NBA Lockout Most Of The Public Just Don't Care

Let's see it's been well over one hundred days since the current NBA lockout has began. Most of the public simply don't care, they are more concerned right now with UFC, college basketball & football, NHL and as always the NFL. Eventually the owners and players will come to their senses and make an agreement. Until then sports fans most of them will occupy themselves with other sports that aren't locked out. The NFL was able to get it together without missing any regular season games during their lockout this past spring. The NBA has already cancelled games through mid December. Prior to that summer leagues were cancelled as well. Throw the preseason schedule in their as well. If both sides are able to reach a deal could their be another 50 game season, similar to previous lockout in 1998-99. Only time will tell.

Pacquiao / Mayweather I Dont Think It'll Ever Happen

Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather are regarded as the top two pound for pound boxers in the sport. Nevertheless the boxers and their promoters can never ever get on the same page to give the boxing fans and public the only true fight they desire to see. I truly believe the mega million dollar fight, will never happen. There are several reasons why, where do I begin. Pacquiao is no longer just a boxer he's an elected official now back in the Philippines, along with being a singer and actor. Manny is represented by Top Rank while Floyd is represented by Golden Boy. Will the likes of Bob Arum and Oscar De La Hoya be able to sit down and hash out a deal to bring the fight to life. I really can't see it happening, if it has not already happened to this point. Both fighters continue to take the fans money in Las Vegas and through pay per view to fight other opponents. Pacquiao and his camp led by Freddie Roach, and Mayweather Jr. and his camp led by Roger Mayweather, throw more jabs and counter punches outside the ring, verbally through the media, then they have in the ring with each other.

Smoking Joe Frazier Laid To Rest

Last week boxing loss a legend, Joe Frazier died after his brief battle with liver cancer. Meanwhile in his adopted hometown of Philadelphia,PA Frazier would lay in state for two days at the Wells Fargo Center, which allowed fans to pay their final respects to the man who gave Muhammad Ali his first defeat. The two fighters good, bad or indifferent will always be forever linked in and out of the ring, beside their trilogy of ring wars. Frazier had a funeral in Philadelphia at Enon Baptist Church, then his body was finally laid to rest back in South Carolina his original home state. Ali was in Philadelphia along with other boxers to pay their final respects. May Joe Frazier rest in peace.

Iowa State Defeat #2 Oklahoma State To Scramble BCS

Friday evening, Iowa State hosted previously undefeated and number two ranked Oklahoma State in a Big 12 match up. The Cowboys had been running through opponents all season with their high powered offense. The Cowboys were on the verge of a possible National Champion Game appearance, if they were able to win out the remainder of their schedule. Iowa State would have none of that, once down 24-7 Iowa State would mount a second half comeback, which led to overtime. The Cyclones would go on to defeat the Cowboys 37-31 in a double overtime thriller. Cyclone fans begin to storm the field once the game was completed. Obviously this is the schools biggest victory in quite sometime, more importantly what does the lost do to the BCS standings. Will Alabama have a rematch with LSU in the National Championship Game, now that Oklahoma State has lost or will another team sneak into the title mix. Only time along with voters will tell.

Boxing Fans Deserve Better Pacquiao Marquez III Better Be Action Packed

Let's see pure boxing fans, you've been treated to horrific pay per view boxing in September and October, where you should be reimbursed for the $50-$70 you've dished out on your cable bill, to witness non sense. Tonight in Las Vegas Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez get it on for the third time in their career. Pure boxing fans regardless of who wins (obviously PacMan is the favorite), need knock down drag em' out action, they deserve it ! If Saturday night bout can come anywhere close to their fights in 2004 and 2008 respectively, everyone will be in for a well deserved treat. I'm sure boxing fans can't stomach the Floyd Mayweather Jr. knockout of Victor Ortiz after the whole head butt cheap shot thing in September or the Chad Dawson slamming Bernard Hopkins on his shoulder in round two ending the fight and their was a title belt controversy. Boxing has become expect the unexpected.

Phillies Add Papelbon As Closer Over Madson

R. Amaro Jr. the Philadelphia Phillies general manager, less then a month after his team won 102 regular season games, only to lose in 5 games in the NLDS to the eventual World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals, made a free agent splash, a surprising one nevertheless. Phillies free agent closer Ryan Madson was not resigned, instead the Phillies went into the direction of experience and added former Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon. Inking the 2 time World Series champion to a rumored 4 year $50million deal, that's about $14.5million dollars per year. Hopefully Papelbon will be worth the money. He didn't pitch well down the stretch in September, for the Red Sox, however it was a total team collapse and they blew the Wild Card lead and missed the postseason. 2011 was Madson first full season as a closer, not sure if Phillies wanted to take the risk financially on him, due to lack of experience at the position. Madson was a former set up man to Brad Lidge and helped lead the Phillies to 5 straight NL East titles, a pair of World Series appearances and 1victory parade in 2008.

New Look Miami Marlins Offer Albert Pujols A Contract

Albert Pujols, fresh off his second career World Series victory, was in Miami over the weekend to meet with Marlins officials. Let's see if Albert Pujols will take the bait and sign a contract with the newly named Miami Marlins and open up their new stadium in 2012 on the site of the former Orange Bowl. The Marlins already added a World Series winning caliber manager in Ozzie Guillen now can they add Albert. Is it possible for the Cardinals to resign Pujols, especially after the September and October success the team had in route to a World Series Game 7 victory over Texas, after a Game 6 come back for the ages while trailing the series 3-2. However when manager Tony LaRussa retired, things may have changed for Pujols, in terms of decision making and returning to the Cardinals.

NFL Teams Craving For Stanford's Andrew Luck

A very important Pac 12 game looms on Saturday as Stanford takes on Oregon. This battle could go a long way in figuring out a possible National Championship Game appearance or BCS Bowl Game appearance or Pac 12 representation in the Rose Bowl Game. Many NFL experts believe if Andrew Luck would've left after leading his team to the Orange Bowl a season ago, he would have been the NFL number one draft pick. Once head coach Jim Harbaugh left for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League, Luck stayed in Palo Alto. Indianapolis Colts without Peyton Manning are win less and seem to have the inside track to the number one draft pick, teams like Miami, St. Louis maybe even Washington could possibly be interested. Fans at Colts home games already have Colts uniforms with Luck name on the back. I'm sure Luck is simply continuing to enjoy the college experience, a reason why he returned. While trying to lead Stanford to becoming the best team they possibly can be.

Penn State vs. Nebraska Minus Joe Paterno

Tom Bradley will be the Penn State head coach Saturday vs. Nebraska at Beaver Stadium. Joe Paterno said Wednesday he would resign after the football season, hours later after a trustees meeting, he was rumored to be relieved of his duties over the telephone. Since the Jerry Sandusky child molestation charges have come to light, Penn State and it's community, along with it's campus has been in an uproar. Several parents and possible victims from the past are now coming out, saying the former Nittany Lion defensive coordinator, had done unthinkable acts to several boys. The years that standout are 1998 and 2002, when the man who made the term 'Linebacker U' famous, was witnessed more than once, showering with boys, supposedly even giving oral sex, making promises about making the football team or traveling to away games with Penn State. Many people believe Paterno did the correct thing legally by telling his athletic director (he's been fired), however Paterno didn't do the correct thing morally, by going to police himself after nothing was done. Truly unfortunate way for Joe Paterno to end a career, over 60 years of service to the University and over 40 years as head coach. However it's even more unfortunate for the victims and their families, as they'll be scared for life. From a football standpoint Penn State has a very important Big Ten game, it'll be interesting to see fan reaction Saturday during senior day, along with player reaction, in terms of focus after a long week of media all around campus all week. State College has been the media capital of the world or so it seemed this week.

Tebow Time

Tim Tebow got his first NFL start during week 8 of the 2011 NFL season. How ironic it was in Miami vs. the Dolphins and during halftime the University of Florida Gators were being honored for their back to back championships a few years back, when Tebow led the way. Needless to say, the Dolphins sold more tickets to this game, even if it were probably more Florida Gator / Tim Tebow supports then Miami Dolphins fans. For 55 minutes Tebow played horrible, he was running for his life, getting sacked, not reading the defense or completed passes while seeing his team trail 15-0. Miami was in position for it's first win of the season. Not so fast Tebow utilizing his arms and legs drove the Broncos down for a touchdown, which made the score 15-7. Miami had the onside attempt in it's hands, it was dropped and recovered by Denver. Tebow once again utilizing his arms and legs, led Denver to another touchdowns with seconds remaining, nevertheless the Broncos needed a 2 point conversion to tie the game at 15 and send the game into overtime. Even with a Dolphins timeout, the Broncos spread them out with multiple receivers and allowed Tebow the run / pass option, quarterback sneak for the two points, OT here they come. The teams trade punts, Dolphins fumble the football on their side of the field during 2nd overtime position. Denver ran the ball 3 times and hit a game winning field goal as Tebow managed to win his first NFL start after struggling for 55 minutes and taking over the last 5 minutes. Denver will host Detroit Sunday, Tebow vs. Suh, that will be interesting.

St. Louis Native Wins NLCS & World Series MVP Cardinals Are 11 Time World Champions

St. Louis Cardinals third baseman David Freese has won the 2011 NLCS MVP and 2011 World Series MVP. Cole Hamels of the Philadelphia Phillies last achieved that in 2008 winning the NLCS MVP vs. Los Angeles and World Series MVP vs. Tampa Bay. Freese and his teammates refused to quit, captured the NL Wildcard from the Braves on the seasons final day, after trailing by double digits to start the month of September. Defeated the 102 win Philadelphia Phillies in the NLDS by winning 1-0 in Game 5 taking the series 3-2, the Brewers would lose to St. Louis in the NLCS 4-2. St. Louis became a hot team, turned an unexpected playoff run into a World Series win, the 11Th in franchise history. Every night a different player from the Cardinals helped the team win and advance, none like Freese. Lets fast forward to Game 6 of the World Series Cardinals were one strike away twice, from losing the series. Freese tied the game late and actually won the game in extra innings, with a home run. Game 7 his team trailed 2-0, he tied the game up at 2 with a 2 out 2 run double, the Rangers would never score again. St. Louis won 6-2 and captured the 2011 World Series 4-3. Freese like Hamels in 2008, thanks to October success will become a house hold name and probably make the media rounds on television during the off season.

Where Does Texas Go From Here After Crushing World Series Loss

Texas Rangers fans, like their players have to be shell shocked. Texas lost the 2010 World Series to the San Francisco Giants 4-1. Nevertheless responded in 2011 with the most regular season wins in franchise history. During the ALDS defeated Tampa Bay, in the ALCS defeated Detroit. Even had a great Game 2 comeback in St. Louis to even the 2011 World Series 1-1 going back to Arlington. Defensively, the team hurt itself with errors losing Game 3, while trailing the series 2-1. Texas then responded by winning Games 4 & 5 at home to take a 3-2 series lead back to St. Louis. During Game 6, the Rangers and their fans were one strike away during the late innings and extra innings, from winning the World Series, only to see the Cardinals tie the game and eventually winning the game to force Game 7. Chris Carpenter the Cardinals ace pitched on 3 days rest, Texas would get 2 first inning runs only to never score again and lose the game 6-2 and World Series 4-3. Denying the franchise of it's first title and the city of back to back championship parades, after the Mavericks won the NBA Finals in June. Two straight years of World Series losses and this year especially in Game 6 so close, but could not get the final out. Nolan Ryan who runs the Rangers organization, will have to pick him team off the canvas this off season, in an attempt to try to compete and finally win a World Series in 2012.

Mike Richards Returns To Philadelphia Leaves With A Win

Along with Jeff Carter, Mike Richards grew up in the Philadelphia Flyers organization. Once the Flyers were swept out of the 2011 NHL Playoffs by the eventual champion Boston Bruins, the Flyers wanted to make changes. Carter was traded to Columbus, while Richards was traded to Los Angeles. Neither player was happy to hear the news they would be leaving Philadelphia. In 2010 a year before, both young men help lead the Flyers to the Stanley Cup Finals, before losing to the Blackhawks in 6 games. Obviously the Flyers brass wanted a fresh start. Richards came in Saturday with LA and left with a 5-4 overtime win. He was cheered and booed at the Wells Fargo Center. The former Flyers captain attempted to down play the game prior the start of the game. Nevertheless he had to have emotions in a place in which he spent so much time. Winning makes it all feel a little better.

Nelson Cruz Helps Rangers Return To The World Series

Following the 2011 World Series, the Texas Rangers lost pitcher Cliff Lee as a free agent to the Philadelphia Phillies. Texas had to watch San Francisco celebrate on their field as the Giants clinched the championship, after a Game 5. Now the Rangers will await the winner of the St. Louis / Milwaukee NLCS. Nelso Cruz won the ALCS MVP versus Detroit. He slugged his way through the ALCS with multiple homeruns and a ton of RBI's. Many Rangers fans hope come World Series time Mr. Cruz and his teammates can keep their hot bats going. If the Rangers continue their power, they'll have a championship parade in Arlington, TX and the franchise will have won it's first ever World Series. Nevertheless thanks to the MLB All Star Game, the NL team will have home field advantage.

Insult To Injury Philles Eliminated Howard Tears Achillies Where Do Phillies Go From Here

102 regular season wins a single season franchise record for the Philadelphia Phillies. With a 1-0 NLDS Game 5 to St. Louis, those wins or 5 straight NL East division titles meant nothing. Ryan Howard who struggled through the final 3 games of the series offensively, hurt is achilles , now it's been reported he tore it. Is it possible Howard could miss the entire 2012 season. Which would be year one of his 5 year $125 million contract. Having Halladay, Lee, Hamels and Oswalt didn't help Philadelphia win the World Series. Now with the likes of Madsen the closer and Rollins the shortstop as free agents, what will Philadelphia do. Will veterans Ibanez or Lidge who are free agents return, only time will tell. With Howard Philadelphia struggled offensively, without him how well will the offense do, it'll be an interesting off season for the Phillies. Obviously the time is running short on the core of this team to win another World Series.

Carpenter, Cards End Phillies World Series Dreams

Funny how in life things come full circle, the same thing could be said in sports. Chris Carpenter faced Roy Halladay in Game 5 of the NLDS. The two friends were teammates in the Toronto Blue Jays organization. Both pitchers won Cy Young awards in their careers. However Carpenter has a 2006 World Series title with St. Louis, something Halladay doesn't have. Which is the main reason Roy came to Philadelphia from Toronto. Friday heading into Citizens Bank Park, both players would make their second start of the series. Halladay won Game 1 after giving up 3 first inning runs, Carpenter received a no decision after St. Louis won Game 2 in Philadelphia. Huge win for the Cardinals after Carpenter started on 3 days rest and left after 3 innings. The Cards managed to catch Cliff Lee and the Phillies, they turned a 4-0 deficit into a 5-4 win to tie the series at 1. Halladay gave up 2 extra base hits which led to 1-0 1st inning lead in Game 5. Philadelphia bats went silent after 102 regular season wins, a franchise record. Halladay would pitch 8 innings, Carpenter would pitch St. Louis into the NLCS with a complete game 3 hit shutout. As St. Louis moves on, so may off season questions will present itself in Philadelphia.

Will Atlanta Hang On To NL Wildcard Lead Or Will St. Louis Catch Them

Monday evening St. Louis had a chance to go into the final two games of the regular season tied for the NL Wildcard lead with Atlanta, after the Braves lost to Philadelphia. The Cardinals lost to the last place Astros in extra innings. As Tuesday night begins Atlanta holds a slim one game lead over St. Louis. Obviously it's a must win game for both teams. Atlanta will look to win and take care of their own business, if they can win Tuesday and Wednesday, they'll assure themselves a postseason appearance. However if they lose once or twice, they leave the door open for St. Louis. The Cardinals need to win both remaining games if they look to play in October.

AL NL Wildcard Races Heat Up Tampa Leads The Charge

There are two days remaining in the 2011 Major League Baseball regular season. In the American League, AL East rivals Tampa Bay and Boston are tied for the Wildcard lead. Boston has officially blown a lead after their loss in Baltimore on Monday to the Orioles. The last place Orioles looking to play spoiler. Meanwhile the Tampa Bay Rays defeated the AL East champion Yankees to pull even in the Wildcard standings. Tampa has everything to gain and nothing to lose, meanwhile Boston with their off season moves have everything to lose and little to gain. They were supposed to make the postseason some way shape or form. Could you imagine the madness in Red Sox nation, if Boston fails to make the playoffs. Tampa is showing the same grit with their in expensive roster, that they showed in 2008 when they won the AL East and AL Pennant. Tampa then fell to Philadelphia in 5 games during the Fall Classic. It'll be an interesting final two days, be prepared for a possible one game playoff, you never know.

Riveria All Times Save Leader & Yankees Win Divison Title, What A Week

Move over Trevor Hoffman, New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera has become the all time saves leader of Major League Baseball. The future hall of famer has 5 World Series title, now is number one in the saves department. It was a special scene this past week as Rivera got to set the mark in front of home fans in the Bronx. Earlier in the season Derek Jeter was able to collect 3,000 hits at the New Yankee Stadium. As this week moved on, the Yankees once again will be heading to postseason play, as they won the AL East yet again. New York will be looking for their 28th championship overall and 2nd World Series title in the last 3 years.

Brewers, Diamondbacks, Rangers Clinch Division Titles

Prince Fielder as help led the Milwaukee Brewers into the postseason by clinching the NL Central division title, Kirk Gibson may have come one step closer to winning NL Manager Of The Year as he has led Arizona to the NL West division title. Meanwhile, Josh Hamilton has help led the Texas Rangers to the AL West division title. Milwaukee plays well at home and will be dangerous in the postseason, especially in their building. The Brewers have solid pitching to go with an explosive offense. Who knows what to expect from the young Diamondbacks, however they have nothing to lose and everything to gain in October. While Texas the defending AL Champions, will look to get back to the Fall Classic after losing in five games last year to the Giants.

NL East Champion Phillies Struggling As Postseason Nears

Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels have carried the Philadelphia Phillies to their 5Th consecutive NL East division title, when healthy Roy Oswalt has helped to. Manager Charlie Manuel has seen is team lose 7 straight games, after dropping game one of a doubleheader at the New York Mets. Starting pitching isn't the issue, it's been offense all season, consistent offense that is. Philadelphia didn't lose to San Francisco last season due to starting pitching, the Giants won the series and eventually World Series due to timely hitting. Most fans and media in Philadelphia, believe the Phillies can just turn it on, once the playoffs begin next weekend. Winning the NLDS or NLCS isn't the goal, becoming World Series champions is the goal. Rollins and Victorino will need to set the table and get on base to start games. Utley, Howard, Pence and Ibanez will be responsible for driving in runs. If that formula doesn't happen, even with excellent starting pitching, the Phillies won't win the World Series. Offense isn't something a team can just turn on and off. My number for the Phillies entering the postseason is 4, meaning the team has a great chance of winning if they average 4 runs per game in the postseason. In order to do that, they'll need to score with runners in scoring position, especially with less then two outs, while getting some timely two out hits. If they are unable to produce, the pressure will mount on the starting staff. Meaningless in the standings, nevertheless it will mean something to play well in the final five regular season games, from a mental standpoint. Seven days and counting stuck on 98 wins. Seven days and counting the postseason begins.

Detriot & Buffalo Start 2-0

Lions and Bills fans, you have reason to believe ! Your teams have started the 2011 NFL Season 2-0. Experts thought the Lions could possibly sneak into the NFC Playoffs this season, not to many experts looked at Buffalo as a postseason team. Both squads are young and hungry, basically they have nothing to lose and everything to gain. They are led by quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Ryan Fitzpatrick respectively. Both teams will face divisional test during week 3 as the Lions head to Minnesota to take on the 0-2 Vikings, while the Bills will welcome and play host to the Tom Brady led New New England Patriots. The Bills won a week two come from behind thriller at home against Oakland. While the Lions smoked Kansas City at home. Keep an eye on both teams all season long, it'll be great to see winning football back in those pair of cities, if these teams can continue to produce on the field.

Gonzalez Pair Of TD's Lead The Way, Falcons KO Vick, Defeat Philadelphia

Atlanta came into the Georgia Dome, during week two looking for a win versus Philadelphia to avoid an 0-2 start to the season. Meanwhile, the Eagles wanted to return home 2-0 to open the season with a pair or road dome games. Sunday Night Football, turned into a knock down (literally), drag out, shootout. It was a back & fourth slugfest by two of the NFC's better teams. Atlanta prevailed over Philadelphia 35-31 as both teams head into week 3 with 1-1 records. Tony Gonzalez the future hall of famer, caught 7 passes for 2 touchdowns, he was able to work over the Philadelphia linebackers and safeties. Philadelphia seemed to keep Michael Turner in check until the 4th period, he broke a 61 yard run to set up his game winning touchdown. Philadelphia not only lost a ten point final quarter lead, they loss Michael Vick during the final frame. Vick had a concussion as he banged helmets with his offensive lineman. Jeremy Maclin caught 13 balls for Philadelphia, but dropped a crucial 4th down pass, which basically ended any Eagles comeback. It's possible the two teams could meet once again in the postseason.

Last 2 Super Bowl Champions Put On Opening Night Showcase

Aaron Rodgers and Drew Brees are Super Bowl MVP quarterbacks, more importantly they led the Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints to the last two Super Bowls. New Orleans defeated Indianapolis, while Green Bay defeated Pittsburgh. Both teams would open the 2011 NFL season at Lambeau Field. Fans would not be disappointed. Green Bay defeated New Orleans 42-34, mainly because of the pair of defensive stops the Packers defense made to stop the Saints from scoring. One play included the Saints being stopped on the final play after Green Bay was called for pass interference on the previous play. Rookie running back Mark Ingram was denied on the goal line for a potential tying touchdown and two point conversion as time expired. Earlier in the 2nd half New Orleans choose not to run on 4th down and Brees pass attempt was incomplete. Rodgers was 27 for 35 and 312 yards with 3 touchdowns, while Brees was 32 for 49 and 419 yards with 3 touchdowns. I'm sure fans would love to see these two teams face each other during the postseason.

Brady Opens Monday Night Football In Style

Tom Brady usually performs well under the spotlight during prime time games. During the first Monday Night Football game of the 2011 NFL season, the 3 time Super Bowl champion took it to another, record setting level. During the Patriots 38-24 victory over AFC East division rival Miami Dolphins, Brady threw for 517 yards. He was aided by a 4Th quarter 99 yard touchdown (catch & run) to Wes Welker to put the game away. Chad Henne the other University of Michigan starting quarterback for the Dolphins wasn't bad. Henne threw for 416 yards on 30 for 49 passing and 2 touchdowns. Brady completed 32 of 48 passes and 4 touchdowns. What will both quarterbacks do for an encore heading into week two, we will all see.

Cam Newton Impressive NFL Debut Despite Loss

Shortly after the 2011 NFL Preseason began, the Carolina Panthers named Cam Newton their opening day starter vs. Arizona. Everyone knows Newton during his one season at Auburn won the Heisman Trophy & led the Tigers to the National Championship. All those individual and team accomplishments, came in spite of Newton making off the field news, mainly with his father. Many people wanted to know did Cam's dad take money from universities. Nevertheless his son became the first overall selection during the 2011 NFL Draft. Newton struggled in Indianapolis during the NFL Combine, however after Week 1 performance, you would never know. Carolina would go on to lose to Arizona 28-21, at University of Phoenix Stadium. That's the same venue Cam became a champion in January. Newton opened his NFL career going 24 for 37, 422 yards (rookie record) and 2 touchdowns. He impressed experts with his leadership in the huddle and poise in the pocket. He didn't operate from a pro style offense while at Auburn. This performance should help jump start his career, even though their will be rookie quarterback growing pains week to week.

Justin Verlander First To Twenty

Justin Verlander could be in line for the American League Cy Young Award obviously. Justin Verlander more importantly could be in line for American League MVP. He's the first pitcher during the 2011 MLB season to reach 20 wins. He's held the fort down in Detroit and has pitched the Tigers to first place in the AL Central. It'll be interesting to see how well Verlander pitches in October during the postseason, if Detroit can hold off the likes of Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox.

Peyton Manning Will He Be Ready For Indianapolis

Peyton Manning, had neck surgery during the off season. Last week the Colts signed veteran Kerry Collins out of retirement. This week Peyton Manning was activated off the PUP list. Their are two weeks before the start of the 2011 NFL regular season. Will Peyton Manning play and continue his consecutive game streak or will Kerry Collins start ? We all know Peyton Manning is Indianapolis & Indianapolis is Peyton Manning. Meaning as he goes, they go. Even if Manning plays in week one, he hasn't practiced much and with the lockout, he hasn't got much work in with his receivers. So it wouldn't be the Manning everyone expects right away. Keep an eye on this situation. His health could open up the AFC South for other teams.

Larry Fitzgerald Gets Paid

Arizona brings Larry Fitzgerald, first gets a quarterback. After the Cardinals traded for Kevin Kolb shortly after the front office gave Fitzgerald a contract extension to remain in the desert. He's known as the 1st or 2nd best wide receiver in the game. Now he's happy financially. He'll certainly make Kevin Kolb a better quarterback. Let's see how well Arizona will do in the NFC West this season, experts believe it's the weakest division in football. Arizona was able to win the divison 3 seasons ago and make a Super Bowl appearance it were about two minutes away from a title.

Giant Struggles

The New York Giants are coming off a 2010 season where the team finished 10-6 and still missed the NFC Playoffs, after leading the NFL in offense. Eli Manning and the Giants offense turned the football over too many times and still had a chance down the stretch to win the NFC East and make the playoffs before the turnovers finally caught up to the team. During the off season New York lost first round draft pick Prince Amukamara for several weeks during broken foot in practice. Now Osi Umenyiora was upset about his contract status, has opted to have knee surgery, the pass rushing defensive end will miss the start of the season. Terell Thomas the starting cornerback has torn his ACL during pre season action and will be done for the season. The Giants are in a crisis as the season nears and the injuries pile up. They also loss Steve Smith the veteran wide receiver to division rival Philadelphia.

Jim Thome Hits 600 HR Then Returns Home To Cleveland

Jim Thome, is a future Hall of Fame slugger, he hit his 600th home run about two weeks ago while a member of the Minnesota Twins. Many baseball experts thought Thome could be coming back to Philadelphia, a team he signed with in 2003 as a free agent after leaving Cleveland. However Thome opted to join those Cleveland Indians. Philadelphia has baseball best record, while Cleveland is tied for 2nd place in the AL Central, during the writing of this article. Their still is an outside chance Cleveland could catch Detroit with a month to play, to make the postseason. Thome went where is heart was after making history. Jim has always been a classy guy and baseball people wish him nothing but the best.

Hunter Pence Loves Philadelphia Phillies Fans Loves Hunter Pence

Hunter Pence, during his short time in Philadelphia has fallen in love with the city. The last place Houston Astros traded the right fielder to the Philadelphia Phillies in July prior to the MLB trade deadline. As you walk around Citizens Bank Park, fans are wearing Hunter Pence number 3 jersey. Fans admire his hustle and hard play. He also gives slugger Ryan Howard much needed protection in the Phillies lineup. Pence looks forward to heading to the postseason for the first time this October. The Phillies will look to win the World Series for the 3rd overall time in their history, for the 2nd time in 4 seasons and for the 1st time since 2008. Having Pence on the roster will go a long way, to making those achievements happen.

Suh Changes Lions Attitude

Second year defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has already helped the Lions defense become better during his Pro Bowl rookie season last year. Now the all star performer from the University of Nebraska, looks to lead the young Lions with his play and also his attitude. Suh is known as a fiery and aggressive player. Suh has been fined various times for his hits on opposing players mainly quarterbacks. During a recent preseason game vs. New England Ndamukong punched fellow Pro Bowler Logan Mankins in the face. NFL experts believe the Lions could make a playoff push for a wildcard appearance. If young quarterback Matthew Stafford can stay healthy, Detroit has the weapons on both sides of the football. Suh leads the charge where the Lions will no longer back down for anyone, anymore.

Kirk Gibson Possible Choice For NL Manager Of The Year

Kirk Gibson will always be remembered for his classic World Series home run for the Los Angeles Dodgers. During that 1988 season Kirk Gibson was named NL MVP. However, Gibson never made an All Star appearance. The Arizona Diamondbacks named Gibson interm manager in October 2010, shortly after he became the full time manager of the Diamondbacks. Coming into 2011, many believed the World Series champion San Francisco Giants were selected to win the NL West. Few baseball experts talked about Arizona in terms of winning the division. Arizona opened up the 2011 season slowly, now they have turned it up, playing excellent baseball. Manager Kirk Gibson has positioned himself as a candidate for NL Manger Of The Year. The Diamondbacks has surpassed the Giants as the top team in the standings within the NL West. San Francisco traded for Carlos Beltran and currently are in second place.

Burress In A New York State Of Mind Signs With Jets

Plaxico Burress with attempt to help lead the New York Jets to a world championship. Prior to going to prison after shooting himself in the leg and the attempted cover up along with the unlicensed gun, Burress helped the New York Giants defeat the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. Burress will team with Santonio Holmes another former Super Bowl winner with the Pittsburgh Steelers as the starting receivers for New York other team. Many believed Burress would sign with Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or go back to the Giants.

Randy Moss Retires

Randy Moss was being courted by various NFL teams since he was a free agent following the 2010 season. During last season Moss begin playing with the Patriots, was traded to the Vikings the franchise that drafted him in 1998 & released before finishing the season with the Titans. If this is truly the end, Moss will be known for his off the field issues, arrest, violations along with select teammates noticing the star receiver taking plays off. The highlights of Moss career was winning 1998 offensive rookie of the year with Minnesota and helping the Vikings make the NFC Championship Game, helping New England go 16-0 during the 2007 season and appearing in his first Super Bowl before falling to the Giants. Moss will retire as one of the NFL all time leaders in receiving touchdowns. Earlier in his career he was so explosive on deep routes and jump balls.

Nnamdi Asomugha Prize Cornerback Signs With Eagles

Suprise suprise, Nnamdi Asomugh didn't sign with the likes of the New York Jets or Dallas Cowboys, the all pro cornerback signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. Who would've thought, especially after the Eagles landed cornerback Rodgers-Cromartie during the Kolb trade to Arizona, the day before. Add all pro Asante Samuel to the mix and the Eagles have 3 pro bowl defensive backs. Last season Philadelphia were one of the worse teams defensively, in terms of giving up passing touchdowns, 31 to be exact. Now they Eagles have so much talent at the position. Rumors have begin to swirl Samuel may be the odd man out and could be traded. Hopefully for one season at minimum Philadelphia retains all 3 defensive backs. The team could use Asante to acquire a linebacker or another defensive player, maybe an offensive lineman as well. Only time will tell.

New England Patriots Land Ochocinco & Haynesworth

The Patriots have appeared in 6 overall Super Bowls since 1985 and since 2001 they are 3-1 overall in 4 Super Bowl appearances. New England hasn't won a postseason game since the 2007 season, when they went 16-0 in the regular season, before losing to the Giants in Super Bowl XLII. The team isn't satisfied with their trophy case. New England only had to give up late round draft picks, to acquire Ochocinco from the Bengals and Albert Haynesworth from Washington. Now they booster the WR core and DL core as well. Haynesworth and Vince Wilfork will be a tough tandem to run the ball against. Ocho will help the likes of Wes Welker and Deion Branch.

Kolb Traded To Arizona

Kevin Kolb finally received his wish after the NFL lockout ended. The former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback was traded to the Arizona Cardinals for cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Arizona after the trade inked Kolb to a contract extension. Keven Kolb was drafted in 2007 to eventually replace Donovan McNabb. McNabb was traded to Washington in 2010, Kolb was announced as the starting quarterback in Philadelphia. However he was knocked out in week 1 vs. Green Bay. Michael Vick seized the moment and led Philadelphia to a NFC East title and playoff appearance. Kolb has wanted to start, now he has his chance. Philadelphia and Arizona will meet in November at Lincoln Financial Field.

Pittsburgh Pirates Making Noise In NL Central

Fans of the Pittsburgh Pirates, haven't seen a winning season since 1992, when the team were lead by Barry Bonds, Bobby Bonilla and Andy Van Slyke. During the 1991 & 1992 seasons Pittsburgh would win division titles, then fall short both seasons to Atlanta in the NLCS. The 2011 Pirates are led by young All Star outfielder Andrew McCuthchen. The young Bucs, no pun intended are battling the likes of St. Louis and Milwaukee for the top spot in the NL Central Division. The Pirates are over .500 this late in the season, past the All Star break for the 1st time in 19 seasons. Only time will tell in the 2nd half of the season, if the Pirates will be able to compete for a division title or Wild Card berth. The players have down their part thus far, led by excellent pitching. However, will the Pittsburgh front office make an additional move prior to the July 31st MLB trade deadline.