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Boston Bruins Playoff Lines

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-13T16:12:44-04:00

The Boston Bruins lines have looked like this in the playoffs so far, Will Claude Julians refusal to make in game adjustments or change the lines lead to the downfall of the 2012-2013 Boston Bruins?

Tim and Tom debate on Fired Up Sports Talk tomorrow night at 7pm on www.masportsweb.com!

Red Sox Ice Cold in May

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-13T16:10:03-04:00

Red Sox are Ice Cold in May. Listen to Fired Up Sports Talk Tuesday Night at 7pm as Tim and Tom talk about who are the Red Sox the team that went 18 and 8 in April or the team who went 2 and 5 on their last home stand.

www.masportsweb.com Daily at Noon and at 7pm Tuesday and Thursday Night
WARL 1320am in Attleboro Saturday at 10am-Noon

Dan Shaughnessy accuses David Ortiz of PED's

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-13T16:03:19-04:00

The Boston Globe's Dan Shaughnessy accused David Ortiz of taking Performance Enhancing Drugs last week in a Boston Globe Article. In My opinion unless the facts are set in stone, don't make accusations, it is unprofessional. You're a journalist for a major news paper, how dare you make accusations you can't prove and try to damage the career of someone who may very well be innocent to get yourself attention. How about you do some more investigative work to prove your theory rather than make it sound like anyone on a hot streak in their 30's is on PED's. You have lost a lot of credibility in my book Shaughnessy.

Sincerely,
Tom Nappi

Bruins-Maple Leafs Breakdown

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-05T23:45:32-04:00

The Boston Bruins for some reason have not been able to close it out in the 3rd period even when taking a lead into the final period and have struggled when they are outshot or trail 1st, when you look at the comparison to the Maple Leafs, there are a lot of similarities but the big question will be if the Bruins can hold up on the Penalty Kill and be able to work their way back when down. Hear more about how the Bruins and Maple Leafs match up this Tuesday at 7pm and Daily at noon on www.masportsweb.com, also in the Attleboro area hear "Fired Up Sports Talk" Saturday at 10am on 1320am and also on Attleboro Cable access Tuesday Nights at 7pm.

Boston Red Sox (20-11)

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-05T23:19:15-04:00

After being swept by the Texas Rangers the Boston Red Sox are 20-11 and tied with the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals for the best record in Baseball. After facing their toughest challenge of the season in the Texas Rangers and being swept are the Red Sox for real? We talk about this and more on Fired Up Sports Talk This Tuesday at 7pm on www.masportsweb.com and Saturday at 10am on WARL. Check Program schedule for air time!

Boston Celtics 2012-2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-05T22:50:47-04:00

Boston Celtics
(41-40 Regular Season)
Lose in 1st round of playoffs 4-2 to New York Knicks

Tune into Fired Up Sports Talk as we talk about if Pierce and Garnett will be Celtics next season! Tuesday at 7pm and weekdays at Noon on www.masportsweb.com and Saturday at 10am on 1320am in Attleboro. Also tune into Attleboro Cable Access Television Tuesday Night at 7pm for New England Sports Live with Tom Nappi and Tim Caouette!

NFL Draft Notes

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-05-05T01:53:52-04:00

Please donate to the Marathon Victims

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-04-23T00:50:14-04:00

To send a check by mail: One Fund Boston, Inc. 800 Boylston Street #990009 Boston, MA 02199

Or go to https://onefundboston.org

A great gesture by Danny Amendola

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-04-16T02:01:02-04:00

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-04-16T01:23:33-04:00

Joe Andruzzi helping victims

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-04-16T01:23:32-04:00

Former New England Patriot Joe Andruzzi helping runners after attack.

DE J.J. Watt Houston Texans
“So many worked so hard to earn the joy that today was supposed to bring. A Coward has replaced joy with tragedy. Thoughts are with you Boston"

Andrew Ference Boston Bruins
“Just put the kids to bed, they were a couple blocks away today and got pretty scared. Tough to know what to say to them on a night like this"

2013 Boston Marathon Tragedy

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-04-16T01:23:32-04:00

After 2 explosions went off near the Boston Marathon Finish Line, 3 People were Killed, Including 8 year old boy, hundreds injured at Boston Marathon Finish Line by explosive devices

If you have any information that could help the investigation please call 1-800-494-TIPS

If you are looking for information on a loved one please call 617-635-4500

Monday Nights Boston Bruins game has been
postponed in light of the Boston Marathon Tragedy.

Tuesday's Boston Celtics game
verse the Indiana Pacers has been cancelled
and will not be rescheduled
in light of the Boston Marathon tragedy

Mike Napoli gets a walk off double to
help the Red Sox past the Rays 3-2.

Sports News March 26th 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-03-27T23:06:10-04:00

NHL NEWS

Canadians beat Bruins in sudden death shootout 6-5

NFL NEWS

Patriots resign Sebastian Vollmer

Osi Umenyiora signs with Falcons

Vikings sign WR Greg Jennings

Danny Woodhead signs with Chargers

NBA NEWS

Bulls snap Heat Streak at 27

Metta World peace out at least 6 weeks

MLB

Adam Wainwright signs extended deal

MLB won't approve padded caps

NFL Free Agency March 16 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-03-16T16:56:06-04:00

Vikings sign WR Greg Jennings

Danny Woodhead signs with Chargers

Stallworth injured in hot balloon accident

Patriots sign Aqib Talib to 1 year/5 million

Patriots part ways with WR Brandon Lloyd

Patriots sign S Adrian Wilson, WR Donald Jones and RB Leon Washington

Falcons sign RB Steven Jackson to 3 year deal

LaRon Landry and Colts agree to 4 year deal

NFL Free Agency

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-03-14T02:13:30-04:00

NFL

LaRon Landry and Colts agree to 4 year deal

MSEN's Tom Nappi say's, Patriots lowballing Welker and signing
Amendola is a disgraceful move

Tom Brady reportedly outraged by Welker departure

Patriots sign Amendola 5 years/31 million

Broncos sign Welker 2 years/12 million

Cardinals and Mendenhall agree to 1 year deal

Lions and RB Reggie Bush agree to 4 year deal

NFL, NHL News March 13 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-03-13T00:49:29-04:00

NFL NEWS

Henderson and Felton stay Vikings

Heyward-Bey and Huff cut by Raiders

Former Ravens LB Dannell Ellerbe and Dolphins agree to 5 years $35 Million

DE Paul Kruger and Browns agree to 5 years $40 Million

DT Desmond Bryant and Browns agree to 5 years $34 Million

Ryan Fitzpatrick released by Bills

Mike Wallace and Dolphins agree to 5 years $60 Million

NHL NEWS

Sutter and Penguins overcome 2-0 deficit and beat Bruins 3-2

Sports News March 12 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-03-12T00:27:51-04:00

NFL NEWS

Redskins interested in Aqib Talib

Percy Harvin heading to Seahawks

Anquan Boldin traded to the 49ers for 6th round pick

Ravens made Joe Flacco highest paid QB in NFL

NHL NEWS

Bruins beat Senators in overtime shootout 3-2 Monday March 12

Blackhawks lose 2 straight games

MLB

Yankees targeting Derrek Lee and Chipper Jones

NBA NEWS

Deron Williams drops 42 points in Nets victory over Washington

Tom Brady signs 3 year contract extension

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-27T12:27:48-05:00

Good News for New England Patriots fans!
By: Tom Nappi

Tom Brady will be a Patriot likely until the day he retires. Brady has already mentioned that he wants to retire at 40 and inked a deal making him a Patriot the next 5 years. Not only did he ink a deal that gives him all guaranteed money but it benefits the team substantially. Rather than Brady taking over 20 million in salary cap space the next 2 years, he will only take up just over 14 million. Brady took the hometown discount with this deal and showed that he is serious about winning another Super Bowl and helping the team in any way he can. If you look at Peyton Manning even after 3 neck surgeries and almost a career ending injury he was asking for top pay from the Colts and walked away when he did not get it, Brady on the other hand wants the Super Bowl and he is willing to take a pay cut to get it.

This new Tom Brady contract leaves the Patriots with a number of options they can pursue during the offseason such as giving Wes Welker and Aquib Talib contracts or pursuing free agents such as Dwayne Bowe or defensive help. Tom Brady is one of the very few in the game that puts the team above his own financial success, although he is getting a 30 million dollar signing bonus and nearly an average of 15 million a season, I think that is enough to live on.....don't you?

Having Tom Brady around for the next 5 years is music to my ears, let's not forget what Patriots fan life was like before Tom Brady.

Mr. Brady Thank You for not being a greedy rotten selfish jerk like most of the professional athletes that care about a couple extra million over their team needs and putting the team first! You are not only one of the best Quarterbacks of all time but one of the best Team Players of All Time!

Pure and Simple if anyone deserves another ring, it's Tom Brady!

NFL COACH TRACKER

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-24T20:31:39-05:00

Chicago Bears hire former CFL coach Marc Trestman as Head Coach

Ron Rivera to remain Panthers Head Coach

Andy Reid to Coach Kansas City Chiefs Next Season

Syracuse Coach Doug Marrone to become Buffalo Bills Head Coach

Saints Hire Rob Ryan as Defensive Coordinator

NFL 2012-2013 Season Awards

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-24T20:29:58-05:00

Allen, Ogden, Carter, Parcells, Sapp among Hall of Fame Class 2013

Peterson edges Manning for NFL MVP

Peyton Manning named A.P. Comeback player of the year

RGIII named A.P. Rookie of the year

J.J. Watt Named Defensive Player of the Year

Bruce Arians first interim to win A.P. Coach of the year

B.C. Alum Luke Kuechly wins Defensive Rookie of the Year

Sports News 2-12-2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-12T14:25:21-05:00

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1.75 Liter Bottle of Svedka Vodka = $19.99

NHL NEWS

Boston College beats Northeastern 6-3 for Beanpot Title

Postponed Bruins-Lightning Game to be played April 25th

NFL NEWS

NFL reviews ideas for Super Bowl Storm Plans

Bears Terminate contract of WR Johnny Knox

Vick resigned to Eagles on 1 year deal

NBA NEWS

Golden State to wear Short Sleeve Jersey's?

Leandro Barbosa too miss rest of Season with Left Leg Injury

MLB

Michael Bourn signs 4 year deal with Indians

Ryan Braun admits to consulting Anti-Aging Clinic

Chris Carpenter may have to retire because of Nerve Injury

A-Rod back on the hot seat for PED's

Sports News 2-8-2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-08T14:21:59-05:00

NBA NEWS

Wade, Bosh, Allen Diagnosed with Flu

NHL NEWS

*SATURDAYS BRUINS LIGHTNING GAME PUSHED TO SATURDAY AT 7PM DUE TO WEATHER*

Tim Thomas say's he does not plan to play despite trade

Bruins Trade Tim Thomas to the New York Islanders and receive
draft picks contingent on Thomas Playing this season

NFL NEWS

Super Bowl Power Outage caused by Faulty Device

MLB

Michael Bourn signs 4 year deal with Indians

Ryan Braun admits to consulting Anti-Aging Clinic

Chris Carpenter may have to retire because of Nerve Injury

A-Rod back on the hot seat for PED's

Sports News Feb 5 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-05T23:25:48-05:00

NBA NEWS

Doc Rivers Denies Trade Rumors with Celtics

MLB

Ryan Braun admits to consulting Anti-Aging Clinic

Chris Carpenter may have to retire because of Nerve Injury

NFL NEWS

Saints to Hire Rob Ryan as Defensive Coordinator

Sports News Feb 3 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-02-03T12:24:56-05:00

NFL NEWS

Giants Pulling for 49ers to join Championship Party

NHL'ers picking 49ers to win Super Bowl

Allen, Ogden, Carter, Parcells, Sapp among Hall of Fame Class 2013

Peterson edges Manning for NFL MVP

Peyton Manning named A.P. Comeback player of the year

RGIII named A.P. Rookie of the year

J.J. Watt Named Defensive Player of the Year

Bruce Arians first interim to win A.P. Coach of the year

B.C. Alum Luke Kuechly wins Defensive Rookie of the Year

NHL

Captials John Erskine suspended 3 games for elbowing

Chris Bourque scores 1st goal as Bruins take down Maple Leafs 1-0

NBA

Celtics Jared Sullinger out rest of the season with Back Injury

MLB

A-Rod back on the hot seat for PED's

Giants Pulling for 49ers to join Championship Party

Kevin Millwood to retire after 16 Seasons

Sports News Jan 21 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-21T23:56:25-05:00

NFL CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

New England gets dominated by Baltimore Ravens 28-13

San Francisco 49ers overcome 24-0 halftime deficit and beat Falcons 28-24

John Harbaugh praises class of Bill Belichick

David Akers to remain 49ers Kicker for Super Bowl

Bill Belichick to return as Patriots Head Coach Next Season

Tom Brady mentions he would like to see Wes Welker resigned Next Season

Tom Brady, Wes Welker, Vince Wilfork and Logan Mankins pull out of Pro Bowl

NBA NEWS

Doc Rivers threatens Trades if Celtics do not improve

NHL NEWS

Doug Hamilton looking sharp for Bruins

Bruins improve to 2-0 after overtime shootout win again Winnipeg

Tom's Take NFL Playoffs 1-14-2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-14T23:28:19-05:00

Packers 31 @ 49ers 45

Colin Kaepernick is the real deal and Jim Hardbaugh's gutsy choice of benching Alex Smith was most certainly the right one.

Kaepernick went 17 for 31 263 yards and 2 touchdowns passing and rushing had 16 carries, 181 yards averaging 11.3 a carry and 2 touchdowns rushing.

Packers defense could not stop Kaepernick and he took over the game and dominated, not only is he a great athlete but also a leader!

Baltimore 38 @ Denver 35

- Denver Rushed 41 times

- Denver took a knee with 32 seconds left in half and all timeouts available

- Denver rushed 5 straight times on the last drive and could not get first down

-Peyton Manning cannot put games away and he relied on the run game and Broncos defense to finish out the Ravens because he did not want to do it or was nervous to do it himself.

Besides Peyton Manning not stepping up in the end, this was one of the best playoff games I have seen and hopefully the Patriots can send Ray Lewis to the retirement home.

Also Trindon Holliday had 2 special team touchdowns, without Holliday Broncos could have lost a lot worse.

Seattle 28 @ Atlanta 30

- Atlanta had a great first half then the defense puked on themselves and so did Matt Ryan throwing 2 interceptions and letting the Seahawks right back into the game.

- But I do give the Falcons offense a bit of credit because they did get in Field Goal Range for the game winning Field Goal by Matt Bryant but as far as I'm concerned this loss can be put on Pete Carroll for calling a timeout trying to ice the kicker.

- I am still not so confident in the Falcons closing it out and getting the job done.

Texans 28 @ Pats 41

Brady in 42-14 regular season victory against Texans
21 for 35 296 yards 4 touchdowns

Brady in 41-28 Playoff victory
25 for 40 344 yards 3 touchdowns

Houston did nothing different defensively to stop Brady in the playoff game
Houston also gave up on the run game, both games and relied on Schaub
and the passing game

Game 1 Arian Forster 15 carries for 46 yards, 1 Touchdown
Game 2 Arian Foster 22 Carries for 90 Yards 1 Touchdown

Tom's Prediction
Falcons - 27 49ers - 37
Ravens - 24 Patriots - 30

Super Bowl
Patriots - 31 49ers - 28 - 2nd time is a charm!

Playoff Power Rankings
4) Atlanta Falcons
3) Baltimore Ravens
2) S.F. 49ers
1) New England Patriots

Sports News Jan 14 2012

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-14T16:02:54-05:00

NFL NEWS

Ravens LB rips Pats after win

Gronk Injured early in victory over Texans

LB Belcher autopsy reveals intoxication

Jaguars GM Say's Tebow not in Plans

RGIII Has ACL and LCL Repaired

NBA NEWS

Manu Ginobli out 10-14 days with injury

NCAA Football

Irish RB Cierre Wood to go Pro

ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE Defeats Notre Dame Fighting Irish 42-14 to Win 3rd National Championship in 4 years

Nick Saban plans on staying with Crimson

A.J. McCaron's Girlfriend sees popularity burst

MLB

A's Extend Manager Bob Melvin 2 years

Football News Jan 8 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-08T22:18:03-05:00

NFL NEWS

Rob Ryan fired as Dallas Defensive Coordinator

Jets Expected to hire Dennis Thurman as Defensive Coordinator

Jets Fire Offensive Coordinator Tony Sparano

NCAA Football

ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE Defeats Notre Dame Fighting Irish 42-14 to Win 3rd National Championship in 4 years

Nick Saban plans on staying with Crimson

A.J. McCaron's Girlfriend sees popularity burst

Lakers Injuries

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-07T23:05:06-05:00

ESPN Los Angeles reporting Center Dwight Howard and Forward Pau Gasol are out indefinitely with injuries.
"Howard is sidelined with a torn labrum in his right shoulder while Gasol has a concussion."

Howard Suffered his injury in the 2nd half of the Lakers 107-102 loss to the Clippers on Friday but played through the injury in Sundays 112-105 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Howard is estimated to be out at least a week. Metta World Peace expected to share time at both forward and center with the latest Lakers injuries.

Hear all the latest Sports Updates on a brand new edition of the Sports Blast Thursday January 10th, 2012 @ 7:00pm e/t on MSEN Radio!

NFL News Jan 7 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-07T21:30:47-05:00

Colts WR Reggie Wayne not happy about Ray Lewis Dance

Jets Fire QB Coach

Raye, Talesco lead as Chargers GM Candidates

Ron Rivera to remain Panthers Head Coach

NHL NEWS

Boston Bruins Glad to be back!

NBA NEWS

Andrew Bynum to step up Rehab

Hot Topics Week 1 Jan 2013

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-06T23:31:32-05:00

Stay Updated with the latest information in the Sports World on The Sports Blast.
Catch a Brand New Episode Thursday January 10th @ 7:00pm

NHL NEWS

NHL and NHLPA reach 10 year deal making an end to the lockout very possible by Thursday's deadline

Framework of deal agreed upon by NHL and NHLPA

NFL NEWS

Chip Kelley to return to Oregon Next Season after interest by Browns and Eagles

Andy Reid to Coach Kansas City Chiefs Next Season

Seahawks DE Chris Clemons tore ACL in Win against Washington

RG3 Suffers Knee Injury in Loss to Seahawks

Ray Lewis and the Ravens Win Last Game of Season in Baltimore

Arizona considers Bengals Offensive Coordinator Jay Gruden potential coaching candidate

Syracuse Coach Doug Marrone to become Buffalo Bills Head Coach

NBA NEWS

Houston Rockets suspend Royce White

Chicago Bulls Sign Guard Daequan Cook

Dallas Mavericks request Waivers on Chris Douglas-Roberts

Cavs Waive F Samardo Samuels

WIld Card Weekend Scores

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-06T23:24:20-05:00

NFL 2013 PLAYOFF SCORES AND SCHEDULES

Houston - 19 Cincinnati - 13

Green Bay - 24 Minnesota - 10

Baltimore - 24 Indianapolis - 9

Seattle - 24 Washington - 14

Divisional Rounds

Baltimore @ Denver Saturday Jan 12th @ 4:30pm

Green Bay @ San Francisco Saturday Jan 12th @ 8:00pm

Seattle @ Atlanta Sunday Jan 13th @ 1:00pm

Houston @ New England Sunday Jan 13th @ 4:30pm

Conference Championships

SUPER BOWL XLVII

Tom Nappi's Wild Card Weekend Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2013-01-02T22:40:47-05:00

Who will win the 2013 Super Bowl, teams in order of least to most likely

12) Minnesota Vikings (10-6) - Adrian Peterson otherwise known as 99% of the Vikings offense had a legendary year and the Vikings have much improved since last year but A.P. and a so-so defense will not be enough to bring the Lombardi Trophy to Viking land.

11) Indianapolis Colts (11-5) - The Colts have come a long way since last year and Andrew Luck certainly has brought a bright light to Indy since the Peyton Manning days. The Colts will continue to get better but there's too much inconsistency in their offense and their defense is questionable and with a road that involves the Ravens and perhaps Patriots in the 2nd round, it will be very tough for the Colts to come out on top.

10) Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) - The Bengals proved to be a force in the AFC and if they can get by the Houston Texans anything is possible but a meeting with the Broncos or Patriots in the next round will prove too much to handle for the Bengals.

9) Baltimore Ravens (10-6) - I ranked the Ravens a little higher than I would have if Ray Lewis did not announce his retirement after this season, I think the announcement of Ray hanging up the cleats will provide some momentum for the Ravens to potentially have a special year in the post season but their is still way too much inconsistency with the Ravens offense.

8) Seattle Seahawks (11-5) - The Seahawks showed they can win on the road, they're a legitimate contender and they can compete with the best, but I would give it 1 or 2 more years before you see Seattle in a Super Bowl.

7) Houston Texans (12-4) - The Texans were the best all around team in the AFC for the better part of the season but only beat 2 teams above .500 and showed they struggle against the elite as they played themselves out of a bye week in the last few games of the season.

6) Washington Redskins (10-6) - The Redskins ended the season on a 7 game winning streak. RG3 has taken control of the Skins offense and the Redskins are scary because they have a great defense and now with RG3 they have the offense they need to compete with the best.

5) Atlanta Falcons (13-3) - The Falcons struggled in their last 5 games going 3-2 and have been 1 and done the last few seasons in the playoffs but since they have a much improved defense if Matt Ryan can get the Falcons offense going the Falcons can compete with the best.

4) S.F. 49ers (12-4) - The 49ers are a solid all around team but showed they are beatable as they went 3 and 2 in their last 5 and did not have the hardest schedule this season, it is still a question as to if Colin Kaepernick can keep up with a high powered offense on a consistent basis.

3) Green Bay Packers (11-5) - After a rough start to the season, Aaron Rodgers did what he normally does and the Packers were firing on all cylinders for a better part of the season. They have arguably the best offense in the playoffs but their shaky defense could end up being a downfall.

2) Denver Broncos (13-3) - Peyton Manning returned and did what he does best all season long. Manning showed he is still the same elite Q.B. he has been his entire career and has helped the Broncos become the best team record wise in the AFC.

1) New England Patriots (12-4) - Even though I am a Patriots fan, I have not favored them usually to win the Super Bowl but with Gronk back healthy and the fact the Patriots defense has played better on a weekly basis, I give Brady a great shot to bring home his 4th ring.

Prediction Time
Wild Card Weekend
Houston Defeats Cincinnati 23-20
Green Bay Defeats Minnesota 33-27

Baltimore Defeats Indianapolis 24-21
Washington Defeats Seattle 27-24

Divisional Round
Denver Defeats Baltimore 31-24
Atlanta Defeats Washington 27-24
New England Defeats Houston 34-27
Green Bay Defeats S.F. 31-28

Conference Championships
New England Defeats Denver 34-31
Green Bay Defeats Atlanta 30-21

Super Bowl
New England Defeats Green Bay 37-34

Tom Nappi's Week 15 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-12-17T13:09:23-05:00

Here is the Week 15 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 14 of the NFL Season Went

32) Kansas City Chiefs (2-12)
31) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-12)
30) Detroit Lions (4-10)
29) Oakland Raiders (4-10)
28) Tennessee Titans (4-9)
27) Buffalo Bills (5-9)
26) Cleveland Browns (5-9)
25) Arizona Cardinals (5-9)
24) San Diego Chargers (5-9)
23) Philadelphia Eagles (4-10)
22) Carolina Panthers (5-9)
21) Miami Dolphins (6-8)
20) St. Louis Rams (6-7)
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-8)
18) New York Jets (6-7)
17) New Orleans Saints (6-8)
16) Chicago Bears (8-6)

15) Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) - Big Ben is back and the defense slowly getting healthier, they still have a tall task on their hands trying to make the playoffs with the Ravens and Bengals playing solid football.

14) Dallas Cowboys (8-6) - Tony Romo and America's team are starting to get red hot and will more than likely end up in the playoffs.

13) Minnesota Vikings (8-6) - The Vikings are for real and Adrian Peterson has been off the charts.

12) New York Giants (8-6) - The Giants are having some end of the season struggles but if they're anything like last year they will turn it on come playoff time.

11) Washington Redskins (8-6) - RG3 is filthy and the Redskins will be a force to be reckoned with.

10) Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) - The Bengals have a shot to win the AFC North and have a pretty good all around team.

9) Indianapolis Colts (9-5) - Look out for the Colts, Andrew Luck became a seasoned veteran in his first year in the league

8) Baltimore Ravens (9-5) - The Ravens defense is slowly getting healthier and should be close to full force come playoff time.

7) Seattle Seahawks (9-5) - The Seahawks have put up 108 points in the past 2 weeks and their defense continues to get better and better.

6) Green Bay Packers (10-4) - Aaron Rodgers is once again lighting up the scoreboard and the Packers defense is getting healthier. Look out for the Packers, they can beat anyone!

5) Houston Texans (12-2) - Despite having the best record in the AFC and playing good all around football, the Texans have played a pretty weak schedule, we will see what they're made of come playoff time.

4) New England Patriots (10-4) - The Patriots offense is filthy and they seem like they can put up points on anyone, coming back down 31-3 against the 49ers was absolutely amazing despite the loss. Pats will be in the Super Bowl hunt.

3) Atlanta Falcons (12-2) - The Falcons went through a bit of a slump in the middle weeks of the season but Matt Ryan has been white hott the last few weeks and the Falcons have dominated teams in must win games.

2) S.F. 49ers (10-3) - The 49ers are a terrific all around team and they certainly could be a Super candidate and proved they could keep up with high powered offense, but I am still not 100% convinced they can constantly keep up with a high powered offense and that is what they will see quite a bit in the upcoming weeks.

1) Denver Broncos (11-3) - The Broncos are on a 9 game winning streak and are playing extraordinary on both sides of the ball. Right now the Broncos look like the best team in Football!

Tom Nappi's Week 11 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-11-14T13:43:25-05:00

Here is the Week 11 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 10 of the NFL Season Went

32) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-8)
31) Kansas City Chiefs (1-8)
30) Cleveland Browns (2-7)
29) Carolina Panthers (2-7)
28) Oakland Raiders (3-6)
27) St. Louis Rams (3-5)
26) Buffalo Bills (3-6)
25) New York Jets (3-6)
24) Tennessee Titans (4-6)
23) Washington Redskins (3-6)
22) Philadelphia Eagles (3-6)
21) Arizona Cardinals (4-5)
20) Cincinnati Bengals (4-5)
19) Miami Dolphins (4-5)
18) Detroit Lions (4-5)
17) San Diego Chargers (4-5)
16) Dallas Cowboys (4-5)
15) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-4)
14) New Orleans Saints (4-5)
13) Minnesota Vikings (6-4)
12) Seattle Seahawks (6-4)
11) Indianapolis Colts (6-3)

10) Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) - Not definite yet but Big Ben could be out for the season which could mark the end of Steelers playoff run chances.

9) New York Giants (6-4) - The Giants have been on and off all season but remember they were 9-7 last season and won the Super Bowl.

8) Denver Broncos (6-3) - The Broncos are on fire as they have won their last 4 and with Peyton Manning anything is possible for the Mile High.

7) Baltimore Ravens (7-2) - The Ravens defense is depleted but they are still finding ways to win and will be a threat in the AFC.

6) New England Patriots (6-3) - The Defense continues to struggle giving up over 400 yards to the Buffalo Bills but the offense continues to flourish and look strong

5) Green Bay Packers (6-3) - The Packers like the Patriots are very much an offensive team but they are on a 4 game winning streak even with missing 2 of their best receivers in Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson.

4) San Francisco 49ers (6-2) - The 49ers are one of the most well rounded teams in the NFL but the question is will they have enough offensive power to go to the next level.

3) Chicago Bears (7-2) - The Bears have shown their defense has drastically improved but Jay Cutler has not proved that the offense can fare well against a strong defense with last weeks loss to the Texans, another negative is Cutler suffered a concussion during the game.

2) Atlanta Falcons (8-1) - Despite losing to the Saints, the Falcons are still the best all around team in Football and should have no problem getting the number 1 seed in the NFC.

1) Houston Texans (8-1) - The Texans showed with the win against the Bears they can win the low scoring defensive games as well as the high scoring games and are the best all around team in the AFC. The Texans have the best point differential in the league as they have scored 250 and only given up 143 points.

Tom Nappi's Week 9 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-10-30T14:16:38-04:00

Here is the Week 9 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 8 of the NFL Season Went

32) Kansas City Chiefs (1-6)
31) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-6)
30) Carolina Panthers (1-6)
29) Cleveland Browns (2-6)
28) St. Louis Rams (3-5)
27) Arizona Cardinals (4-4)
26) New York Jets (3-5)
25) Seattle Seahawks (4-4)
24) Washington Redskins (3-5)
23) Tennessee Titans (3-5)
22) Oakland Raiders (3-4)
21) Buffalo Bills (3-4)
20) Miami Dolphins (4-3)
19) New Orleans Saints (2-5)
18) Tampa Bay Bucs (3-4)
17) Cincinnati Bengals (3-4)
16) Philadelphia Eagles (3-4)
15) Dallas Cowboys (3-4)
14) Detroit Lions (3-4)
13) S.D. Chargers (3-4)
12) Indianapolis Colts (4-3)
11) Minnesota Vikings (5-3)
10) Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3)

9) Baltimore Ravens (5-2) - The Ravens have a very depleted defense with season ending injuries to Ray Lewis, Lardarius Webb and also a few other key pieces of their defense are banged up.

8) Denver Broncos (4-3) - The Broncos started off rough but with Peyton Manning back to vintage and the defense playing well, look out for the horses.

7) New England Patriots (5-3) - Great win against the Rams, but defense still needs to show they can stop a good Q.B.

6) Green Bay Packers (5-3) - After 3 straight wins, the Packers are right back in the mix with the best of the NFC.

5) Chicago Bears (6-1) - The Bears have played nicely on both sides of the ball in their 5 game winning streak and Brandon Marshall has been a terrific weapon for Jay Cutler, however they must prove they can beat the elite still.

4) S.F. 49ers (6-2) - The 49ers defense is terrific and they are far better than anyone in the NFC west and should be a threat to make the Super Bowl this year with a good all around team.

3) New York Giants (6-2) - You can never count out the Giants, they went 9 and 7 last year and won the Super Bowl, they continue to play terrific football and have a great all around team.

2) Houston Texans (6-1) - The Texans are by far the best all around team in the AFC they showed that crushing the Ravens 41-13. They are in a weak conference and should only be challenged by the Patriots, Ravens and Steelers for a Super Bowl Appearance.

1) Atlanta Falcons (7-0) - The Falcons are the best all around team in the league and Matt Ryan is on fire, but the big question with the Falcons is, can they win a playoff game or is Matt Ryan going to remain a choke.

Tom Nappi's Week 6 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-10-09T21:41:57-04:00

Here is the Week 6 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 5 of the NFL Season Went and Thursday Night Football between the Rams and Cardinals (#) represents Last Week Ranking

32 (32) Cleveland Browns (0-5)
31 (30) Tennessee Titans (1-4)
30 (29) Kansas City Chiefs (1-4)
29 (28) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-4)
28 (26) Oakland Raiders (1-3)
27 (24) Carolina Panthers (1-4)
26 (23) Tampa Bay Bucs (1-3)
25 (18) Detroit Lions (1-3)
24 (27) New Orleans Saints (1-4)
23 (16) Washington Redskins (2-3)
22 (22) Buffalo Bills (2-3)
21 (31) Miami Dolphins (2-3)
20 (15) Dallas Cowboys (2-2)

19 (25) Indianapolis Colts (2-2) - If they beat the Packers, they deserve to move up, what a job by Andrew Luck!

18 (14) New York Jets (2-3) - Sanchez makes bad decisions which costs the Jets games! Put in Tebow, the defense is still pretty good though!

17 (13) Cincinnati Bengals - They don't stand a chance in the AFC North Unless they pull off the Big Wins!

16 (21) Seattle Seahawks (3-2)
15 (19) Arizona Cardinals (4-1)
14 (20) St. Louis Rams (3-2)

13 (6) Green Bay Packers (2-3) - Packers are in big trouble, they better start winning as they have one of the toughest schedules in the league and have blown 2 of what should have been automatic wins.

12 (17) Minnesota Vikings (4-1) - Look out for the Vikings they may be for real.

11 (9) Denver Broncos (2-3) - One of the toughest schedules in the league but still have a great shot at the playoffs in a weak AFC West

10 (8) S.D. Chargers (3-2) - A great young team and has a great shot at the weak AFC West.

9 (12) Chicago Bears (4-1)
8 (10) Philadelphia Eagles (3-2)
7 (7) New York Giants (3-2)
6 (11) Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2)

5 (5) New England Patriots (3-2) - A nice win against the Broncos but bad coaching decisions such as going for it up 17 on 4th and 5 and giving Manning the ball at your own 45 could catch up with the Patriots. They did prove their defense got better and Brady is still good as ever and most importantly they can win tough games.

4 (4) S.F. 49ers (4-1)
3 (3) Baltimore Ravens (3-1)
2 (2) Atlanta Falcons (5-0)
1 (1) Houston Texans (5-0)

Tom Nappi's Week 5 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-10-07T01:05:31-04:00

Here is the Week 5 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 4 of the NFL Season Went and Thursday Night Football between the Rams and Cardinals (#) represents Last Week Ranking

32) (32) Cleveland Browns (0-4)
31) (30) Miami Dolphins (1-3)
30) (24) Tennessee Titans (1-3)
29) (26) Kansas City Chiefs (1-3)
28) (29) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-3)

27) (31) New Orleans Saints (0-4) - They hung with the Packers they get credit for that and let's face it I am not buying the Saints are that bad. The Saints do have one of the toughest schedules in the league!

26) (25) Oakland Raiders (1-3)
25) (26) Indianapolis Colts (1-2)
24) (20) Carolina Panthers (1-3)
23) (21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-3)
22) (18) Buffalo Bills (2-2)
21) (19) Seattle Seahawks (2-2)
20) (27) St. Louis Rams (3-2)
19) (12) Arizona Cardinals (4-1) - OVERRATED
18) (17) Detroit Lions (1-3) - They Will be Fine
17) (22) Minnesota Vikings (3-1) - Starting to think they might be for real
16) (28) Washington Redskins (2-2) - RG3 Is nasty
15) (15) Dallas Cowboys (2-2) - Romo Sucks!
14) (13) New York Jets (2-2) - Awful Shape
13) (16) Cincinnati Bengals (3-1) - They are for real!
12) (14) Chicago Bears (3-1) - The Defense is Nasty
11) (10) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) - They Will be Fine
10) (11) Philadelphia Eagles (3-1) - Vick will be hurt soon
9) (8) Denver Broncos (2-2) - A very tough Schedule!
8) (9) S.D. Chargers (3-1) - Young and Tough!
7) (5) N.Y. Giants (2-2) - See you in the playoffs.
6) (4) Green Bay Packers (2-2) - Same As Above
5) (7) N.E. Patriots (2-2) - 52 points, 32 in 4th quarter Brady is back!
4) (3) S.F. 49ers (3-1) - They are sketchy
3) (6) Baltimore Ravens (3-1) - Flacco might actually be better.
2) (2) Atlanta Falcons (4-0) - Super Bowl Bound

1) (1) Houston Texans (4-0) - Best All Around Team in NFL

Tom Nappi's World Series Pick and Picks in review

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-10-07T00:26:53-04:00

Tom Nappi here and I just want to say sorry that my playoff prediction at the beginning of the MLB season was so miserably wrong but hey it was before they even played but here was my beginning of the season predictions so you can laugh at me

AL East - N.Y. Yankees (Correct)
AL Central - Detroit Tigers (Correct)
AL West - Texas Rangers (Biggest collapse of season 9 games up with 5 games left and Blew it)
WC 1- L.A Angels (Biggest Disappointment in league)
WC 2- Boston Red Sox (WAYYYYY Wrong)

NL East - Philadelphia Phillies (Wrong)
NL Central - St. Louis Cardinals (Made Playoffs but did not win Central)
NL West - S.F. Giants (Right)
WC 1- Miami Marlins (Awful disappointment)
WC 2 - Atlanta Braves (Right)

AL Winner - N.Y. Yankees (Could Be Right)
NL Winner - Philadelphia Phillies (Wrong)

WS Winner - Philadelphia Phillies in 6 (Way Wrong)

Ok here is the Middle of the season:

NL East - Washington Nationals (Right) NL Central - St. Louis Cardinals (Right) NL West - L.A. Dodgers (Wrong way to go Magic Johnson, great trade with the Red Sox)

National League Wild Card
Atlanta (Right) @ Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Wins! (Wrong)

Division Series
Pittsburgh VS Washington - Washington in 6 (Maybe)
St. Louis VS L.A. Dodgers - St. Louis in 7 (Maybe

Washington over St. Louis in 7, Thats Right The Nationals make the World Series! (Maybe)

AL East - New York Yankees (Right) AL Central - Detroit Tigers (Right) AL West - Texas Rangers (Wrong)

American League Wild Card
Chicago White Sox @ L.A. Angels - Angels Win! (Wrong)

Division Series
Yankees VS Angels - Yankees in 7 (Maybe)
Detroit VS Texas - Texas in 7 (Maybe)

Yankees Over Texas in 7 (Maybe besides Texas)

World Series
Yankees over Nationals in 6 games! (Still Alive)

Ok so my predictions were not bad back then especially predicting so early so now that we know who is in and who is out here is my predictions

AL
Detroit takes care of Oakland 3-2 in Series
Yankees take care of Baltimore 3-2 in Series

I will stick with Yankees for World Series 4-3 over Detroit.

NL
Reds Takes Care of Giants 3-1
Nationals Beat St. Louis 3-2

Nationals Beat Reds 4-3 in NLCS

World Series Nationals over Yankees 4-3 (HOW DO YOU LIKE THEM APPLES!)

Tom Nappi's Week 4 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-09-25T11:44:31-04:00

Here is the Week 4 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 3 of the NFL Season Went (#) represents Last Week Ranking

32) (32) Cleveland Browns (0-3)

31) (27) New Orleans Saints (0-3) - A tough loss to Panthers, next week they have the Packers...Ouch

30) (23) Miami Dolphins (1-2)
29) (30) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2)

28) (18) Washington Redskins (1-2) - After a loss to the Rams the Skins are in trouble.

27) (25) St. Louis Rams (1-2)
26) (28) Kansas City Chiefs (1-2)
25) (29) Oakland Raiders (1-2)
24) (31) Tennessee Titans (1-2)
23) (21) Indianapolis Colts (1-2)

22) (26) Minnesota Vikings (2-1) - A shocking win over 49ers but I smell fluke

21) (22) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-2)
20) (19) Carolina Panthers (1-2)

19) (24) Seattle Seahawks (2-1) - The refs gave the Seahawks the win against the Packers but their defense looks nasty.

18) (20) Buffalo Bills (2-1)
17) (15) Detroit Lions (1-2)
16) (14) Cincinnati Bengals (2-1)
15) (17) Dallas Cowboys (2-1)
14) (16) Chicago Bears (2-1)
13) (13) New York Jets (2-1)

12) (12) Arizona Cardinals (3-0) - I am starting to think the Cardinals are for real, their defense looks real good!

11) (6) Philadelphia Eagles (2-1) - You beat the Ravens then get destroyed by the Cardinals, that does not represent a playoff contender.

10) (8) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-2) - WIth the Ravens in your division, the Steelers can't afford to lose to teams such as the Raiders.

9) (11) S.D. Chargers (2-1) - The Chargers have a legit chance to win the AFC west because the Broncos defense is awful.

8) (10) Denver Broncos (1-2) - I moved the Broncos up this week because Peyton Manning showed for sure that he is back to himself nearly 100%.

7 (9) New England Patriots (1-2) - The Patriots defense was awful against the Ravens but the awful replacement refs pretty much handed Baltimore the game. Tom Brady showed he can still work his magic.

6) (7) Baltimore Ravens (2-1) - The Ravens got lucky the refs made the majority of awful calls against the Patriots.

5) (5) New York Giants (2-1) - 2 straight wins for the Giants and they seem to be back to their normal selves after a nice defensive effort and destroying the Panthers.

4) (3) Green Bay Packers (1-2) - The Packers got screwed by the refs against the Seahawks but they will rebound.

3) (1) S.F. 49ers (2-1) - I cannot explain what happened against the Vikings but hopefully it doesn't happen too much or the 49ers will be in trouble with the Cardinals being a factor this year.

2) (4) Atlanta Falcons (3-0) - The Falcons are dangerous this year and have given Matt Ryan the best all around team he has ever had.

1 (2) Houston Texans (3-0) - The Texans are the best all around team in the NFL and are the most hard hitting, athletic teams I have seen.

Tom Nappi's Week 3 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-09-20T01:28:38-04:00

Here is the Week 3 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 2 of the NFL Season Went (#) represents Last Week Ranking

32) (31) Cleveland Browns (0-2)
31) (24) Tennessee Titans (0-2)
30) (30) Jacksonville Jaguars (0-2)
29) (22) Oakland Raiders (0-2)
28) (26) Kansas City Chiefs (0-2)
27) (15) New Orleans Saints (0-2)
26) (27) Minnesota Vikings (1-1)
25) (23) St. Louis Rams (1-1)
24) (29) Seattle Seahawks (1-1)
23) (32) Miami Dolphins (1-1)
22) (18) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1)
21) (21) Indianapolis Colts (1-1)
20) (25) Buffalo Bills (1-1)
19) (19) Carolina Panthers (1-1)
18) (14) Washington Redskins (1-1)
17) (11) Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
16) (9) Chicago Bears (1-1)
15) (13) Detroit Lions (1-1)
14) (20) Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
13) (16) New York Jets (1-1)

Top 12

12) (28) Arizona Cardinals (2-0) - Hey they beat the Pats they deserve credit in my book plus the Cards defense looked filthy.

11) (12) S.D. Chargers (2-0) - They beat the Bengals and the Titans, when they beat a good team they will move up more but so far so good for the young Chargers.

10) (6) Denver Broncos (1-1) - A tough loss to the Falcons, Manning threw 3 interceptions in the 1st half but in the 2nd half looked like his old self and almost made a comeback. The Broncos defense is a bit rough however at times.

9) (1) New England Patriots (1-1) - The Pats offensive line looked terrible and as a result Brady struggled, the Patriots will get killed by any good defense if their offensive line continues to look this bad.

8 (8) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) - A nice solid win against the Jets this week, the Steelers certainly will be one of the top teams in the AFC.

7 (7) Baltimore Ravens (1-1) - A tough loss to the Eagles but the Ravens should overcome it with their strong defense.

6 (17) Philadelphia Eagles (2-0) - The Eagles got both of their wins by 1 point but a W is a W and the win against the Ravens was impressive.

5 (4) New York Giants - (1-1) - The Giants offense looked dominate against the Bucs but the defense still has many questions as they have given up above 50 points the past 2 games.

4 (10) Atlanta Falcons (2-0) - 2 solid wins against Kansas City and Denver, Matt Ryan is starting to show that he will be able to utilize the Falcons weapons this year and cold lead the birds to a deep run if he keeps it up. The Falcons look like one of the best all around teams in the league right now.

3 (5) Green Bay Packers (1-1) - The Packers dominated the Bears on both sides of the ball in week 2 and showed that the tough loss in week 1 to the 49ers could have just been working out some early season glitches.

2 (3) Houston Texans (2-0) - Although the Texans have only beaten the Jaguars and the Dolphins up to this point they have absolutely dominated in both games and they seem to be the best all around team in the AFC.

1 (2) S.F. 49ers (2-0) - They beat the Packers and Lions in hard hitting gritty games, right now there is no better team in football than the 49ers.

Craig Ranks and Picks em in Week 2

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-09-14T00:32:11-04:00

Craig D'Alessandro's
Week 2 NFL Power Rankings
Much Like a good Sandwhich, the two end pieces of the Rankings stay roughly the same, the bad teams are still bad, and the good teams are still good, its the meat of the rankings that have changed quite a bit. Lets see how everyone looks this week.

32.(30) Miami Dolphins
Not much to say about this team here, they were dominated in every area of the game Sunday against Houston. They could not stop the run game, Arian Foster and the rest of the running game ran all over them, Andre Johnson was not covered at all, and J.J. Watt wasn't blocked, from the opening kickoff till Ryan Tannehill's last interception, this game was an overall failure.
The only bright spot I took from this game? Tannehill didn't look atrocious, he just doesn't have a supporting staff. He showed good arm strength and accuracy that led the 'Fins to draft him so early in the draft. He should give Dolphins' fans some hope...not this year though...or next...or next

31.(31) Cleveland Browns
No movement here. Yup, the Browns lost this week, you'll see that a lot with the Browns, but hey, at least they put up a fight against the Eagles. Sure, they lost, but you know what, they were in the game all 60 minutes. I doubt anyone in Cleveland is complaining about a one point loss to a team that most assume (myself included) will win the NFC East. The Browns showed me something I haven't seen from them in a long time, toughness, especially on the defense, which was outstanding, the secondary and linebacker units will make this team palatable for Cleveland this year.
That being said, the offense was equally abysmal. Rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden struggled from the first snap, completing just 12 of 35 passes for 118 yards, and 4 picks. How bad was he? His quarterback rating was...wait for it...out of 158.3...HE HAD A 5.
In a game where the defense did their part, the offense is the sole reason for a loss and the team's No. 31 overall ranking.

30.(30) Seattle Seahawks
Tough loss to the Cardinals this week, more of a choke job really. The Seahawks won't be able to find many positives from this game, but there were a few. Russel Wilson (who is 5'11, a midget if your a quarterback) was solid for the most part, solid enough that he might have won the starting QB job going forward...at least until Matt Flynn comes to form...if he comes to form.
The defense looked solid, keeping the game close when the offense couldn't generate points. There's enough potential here that if the Seahawks can find a spark on offense, they'll be able to rise up the board. The glaring thing this team needs right now...a healthy Marshawn Lynch...and some clutch.

29.(32) Arizona Cardinals
The NFL is a tough place to play, and you get wins when you get them, and the Cards got one this week. The Arizona Cardinals survived an injury to quarterback John Skelton and came away with a win thanks to backup Kevin Kolb's go-ahead drive. They were not great by any stretch of the imagination, but you know what? They were good enough to win late. The defense stepped up as well.
That being said...the offense is still a huge concern for the Cardinals heading into week 2 against the Patriots. Skelton went out injured and the mobile Kolb had to move around in the pocket to make plays. The offensive line allowed only one sack, but that's as much a credit to the quick throws of the quarterbacks. Further complicating matters was the fact that the run game remained grounded by the same offensive line problems.

28.(28) Indianapolis Colts
Probably not the start Andrew Luck wanted in his first NFL contest (four turnovers.) But lets all remember, the Colts are still rebuilding, and when he wasn't turning the ball over, Luck looked very good at times. Reggie Wayne had an unbelievable game, he clearly still has it. Despite allowing 41 points, the defense did show some flashes, even with Dwight Freeney going out, its a small something...but its something.
The offensive line really needs to improve, Luck was constantly under pressure with the elite pass rush Chicago has, and that alone shut down Indy's offense.
Its going to be a bumpy road for the Colts, but there is promise.

27.(27) Oakland Raiders
The only good thing coming out of this game for the Raider's is that Darren McFadden finally appears to be back...and healthy. That will be an important thing because after watching that game Monday night, it appears the Raiders will be relying on him a lot this season, rushing 13 times for 86 yards. McFadden showed he still had the breakaway speed that made him a fan favorite when he was drafted. The defensive front seven also looked strong, constantly putting pressure on Phillip Rivers.
All that being said, besides McFadden, The Raiders offense just stunk up the joint. The Raiders have good wide receivers, but play after play, Carson Palmer just kept going to McFadden, but he had too, because his O-Line was so bad he just kept getting pressured all game. Hell, even their special teams were bad, not looking very good for Oakland this year, duh.

26.(22) Jacksonville Jaguars
It goes without saying, but with this team it all starts with Blaine Gabbert and MJD. Gabbert looked very strong in the preseason, and he continued his play into the regular season. Everyone picked on Gabbert last year for his poor play making and lack of pocket presence, but Gabbert clearly focused on that during the off season and came out Sunday a new composed and accurate self.
So many players, when they do the whole “holdout” thing struggle into the season and see their production slip, see: CJ2K, but that clearly wasn't the case here, MJD looked like his old self, okay maybe not 100% old Jones-Drew, but he was able to take a lot of pressure of Gabbert on offense.
But saying all that, it was still a loss, and a tough one in overtime. Coming into the season, the defense was supposed to be a strength of this team but allowing 26 points TO THE VIKINGS is not a good defense. Adrian Peterson racked up nearly 100 yards on a still recovering knee and allowing Christian Ponder to only throw 6 in-completions was just too much for this team to overcome.

25.(19) Carolina Panthers
Good news for the football world: It would appear Cam Newtons phenomenal season last year was not a fluke and there won't be a sophomore slump, for this week at least. Newton was excellent Sunday, throwing for over 300 yards, and he showed much of the energy that we all came to enjoy last season. The defense steeped up as well, holding the Bucs to just 16 points.
Why didn't they win? The run game...where was it? I spoke of this team having a 3 headed monster out of the running back spot, but that was nowhere to be seen. Normally, if the running game had been working from the running back spot, you would have seen Newton running, but because the running from the RB's was not there, Newton was forced to throw the ball a lot more.

24.(29) St. Louis Rams
Yes, they lost. But losing by 4 points to the Lions when your projected to be one of the worse teams in the league is a big win for this team. Janoris Jenkins and Cortland Finnegan were superb in forcing Matthew Stafford into poor decisions—and that led to three first-half interceptions by the Lions quarterback. The fact this team was hurt going into this game and were able to stick around is a major moral victory.
As good as the defense looked, they couldn't finish the job. By the fourth quarter, Stafford was back on track and was finding openings without missing a beat. It also looks like the problems the Rams had last year with their offensive line have carried on into this season, with Bradford under pressure most of the game.

23.(24) Minnesota Vikings
Adrian Peterson is back, and that is very good news for the Vikings. Christian Ponder had a surprisingly effective day, working the ball down field, but he put the team in a good position when the team could run it in, which this team needs to do as a running team.
The defense was hot and cold, and the cornerback play is still an issue. For as good as the run game was, the passing game will have to be much more complex if they want to win games. And where was Jared Allen? The guy who led the NFL in sacks last year and almost tied the single-season sack record was invisible on Sunday against a quarterback who couldn't stay in the pocket last year.

22.(23) San Diego Chargers
A win is a win, and the San Diego Chargers will take it. Moving to 1-0 on the schedule puts the Chargers in an early tie with the Denver Broncos as the division leaders. The San Diego defense settled down in this game, showing up in the second half and completely shutting down the Oakland run game. Melvin Ingram looked like he could be the player the Chargers hope he will become. The Special teams play of the Chargers was particularity effective.
However, for as good as Phillip Rivers looked at times, he looked terrible at others. He struggled to set his feet in the pocket, which led to overthrows on wide-open receivers. The offensive line let Rivers and the offense down in this one

21.(16) Buffalo Bills
BAD, BAD, BAD, BAD, BAD. The best thing that happened to the Bills in their game against the Jets is that the game came to an end. You can't take much good away from a 48-28 thumping, especially when the game wasn't as close as the final score might indicate. If the Bills are even going to dream about having a chance this season, they have to get over this game NOW.
There was nothing good about the absolute beat down the Bills suffered at the hands of the New York Jets. Fred Jackson's injury is the lasting black eye from this punch in the face, and it's an injury that will severely limit what Buffalo can do over the next four to six weeks. The offense wasn't great with Jackson; \they'll be in even more serious trouble without him.

20.(21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The defensive line played an amazing all-around game, shutting down the Carolina Panthers run game and keeping Cam Newton from getting comfortable as a runner. That alone was good enough for the Bucs to get their first win in 11 games. The rookies played very well in this one.
the passing game on offense was missing however. Josh Freeman didn't take many chances down field, and his 16 yards passing in the second half left the door open for the Panthers. For the Buccaneers to compete in the NFC South, they need Freeman to open things up offensively.

19.(18) Tennessee Titans
After a strong showing in the preseason, the Tennessee Titans pass rush looked very good against the New England Patriots. Before going down with an injury, Jake Locker looked solid at quarterback. Locker wasn't blowing the doors off the defense, but he was showing why the Titans made him the starting quarterback. Very good runner as well.
That being said, An injured Jake Locker and a loss isn't how the team wanted to end the first week of the season. Chris Johnson looked terrible, rushing for just four yards all game on 11 carries. The Patriots aren't known as an elite defense, but they bottled up Johnson without much trouble. The offensive line did struggle to push the Patriots defense, but Johnson was going down at first contact too often. The Titans have talent, but with or without Locker, the team simply did not play well enough versus the Pats, in every aspect.

18.(26) New York Jets
Admit it, we all knew the Jets would lead the NFL in points in week one, come on, we all knew they would. But seriously, this just goes to show you that preseason means absolutely nothing. Mark Sanchez must have been saving his touchdowns for the regular season, tearing apart a Buffalo defense that was supposed to be elite. Sanchez was phenomenal in the opener, giving us all good reason to reevaluate our opinions on the QB. If this is the Sanchez the Jets will play with all season, a wild-card berth is an absolute possibility.
However, there are things to be concerned with. An injury to Darrelle Revis will change the fundamentals of the Jets defense in every way. Revis left the game early with an apparent head injury, and he could miss the next game. All in all, this was a very good game for the Jets. They've quieted many of those who doubted Rex Ryan's ability to get this team playing together as a unit.

17.(13) Kansas City Chiefs
If you ignore the score and just watch the game, the Chiefs didn't look terrible. Matt Cassel played a very solid game. His stat line doesn't accurately reflect the interception that bounced off his receiver, or the dropped passes of his targets. Cassel was good, not great, in a game that showed he can be the leader of this team. The best news is that Eric Berry and Jamaal Charles are back.
After keeping the game close until halftime, the Chiefs rolled over and let the Atlanta Falcons run all over them. The hope is that the absences of Tamba Hali, Brandon Flowers and Kendrick Lewis are to blame for the team's massive capitulation on Sunday—not a schematic or coaching problem.

16.(24) Washington Redskins
Hey, This RG3 kid ain't half bad. The Redskins were dominant, and even when the New Orleans Saints fought back, the team was able to fight point for point to keep their lead and win a game that no one thought they had the right of winning. A big reason for that was the rookie quarterback.
Where Washington can look to get better is on defense. Allowing 25 points is too much, I don't care who you are facing.

15.(10) Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles won, no got injured and LeSean McCoy is one of the best runners in football. Other then that, Otherwise, there's not much good to write home about for Philadelphia. The defense allowed just 16 points, but they were playing the Cleveland Browns...with a rookie quarterback who threw for 188 yards.
At times it looked the Eagles were trying to loss this game. Michael Vick threw the ball 56 times, all while Andy Reid ignored his top-ranked running back McCoy. The general thought around the league was that the only good part about the Browns would be their pass defense, and in that respect it looked like Reid was trying to fit a round peg in a square hole.

14.(14) Pittsburgh Steelers
No change here for the Steelers, yes they lost, but they didn't look like a loser. Ben Roethlisberger is back to being Ben Roethlisberger. In a good way. The Steelers offense rolled—despite playing in the Mile High atmosphere, despite drops by Antonio Brown and despite multiple injuries on the offensive line. Big Ben was the captain this team needed for a tough, hard-fought game against a very good defense. The Pittsburgh defense also looked solid in limiting Peyton Manning. Ike Taylor matched up well—save for one play—against Demaryius Thomas, and the loss of Ryan Clark and James Harrison weren't major factors throughout the game.
The O-line wasn't great. Injuries are to blame, especially once Marcus Gilbert went down, but overall, this unit gets a poor grade for their play. The Steelers were in this game all along, but the offense could have been much more effective with some strong protection. On the flip side, the Steelers were able to keep this game close, but in the fourth quarter they couldn't stop the Broncos from running through the middle of the defense. The major hurdle is to find a starting five who can consistently line up and protect the passer, and then to get healthy on both sides of the ball.

13.(12) Cincinnati Bengals
Well...no one got injured...other then that, its back to the drawing board for the Bengals. If there was one bright spot for Cincinnati, it has to be slot receiver Andrew Hawkins. His ability to catch and run will give the Bengals a nice option outside of A.J. Green in the passing game.
The Bengals entered half time trailing 17-10 and managed to lose 44-13. The Baltimore Ravens took Cincy to the woodshed in the second half, pulling away in every way imaginable. The Bengals must find a way to protect Andy Dalton better.

12.(15) Denver Broncos
Okay, I was wrong, Peyton Manning isn't done quite yet. No. 18 looked like the future Hall of Famer we've all come to know and love. He was lacking the old arm strength, but other then that, it was good old Manning, and by old..I mean wise, he still can command a game like no ones business. Demaryius Thomas and the wide receivers played great.
Only thing I can complain about...the defense allowed too many completions. Other then that, a very solid showing.

11.(11) Detroit Lions
You can't complain about a win, and the Detroit Lions were able to put the St. Louis Rams away. This one was too close for comfort, though. The fact that the team was able to overcome so many turnovers by Stafford was encouraging. The Team will have to improve all around if they want to move up.
Still have to worry about three interceptions in the first half and allowing the St. Louis Rams to score 23 points.

10.(6) New York Giants
Losing to the Dallas Cowboys always hurts, and the New York Giants' weaknesses were exposed in this one. Eli Manning was rattled by dropped passes and hard hits, which forced him to make questionable throws that killed drives. The defense was supposed to anchor this team, but the feared front four produced just two sacks Romo was too easily finding targets when flushed from the pocket.
The Giants' key players did what they're supposed to. Eli Manning, Jason Pierre-Paul and Hakeem Nicks all played well enough to win on Wednesday night. The team was in position to win several times, and as we saw last year, if the Giants aren't put away early they can hang around and make a run late.

9.(5) New Orleans Saints
While the offense generated a ton of points, their game plan was flawed. They failed to try and establish a run game, opting instead to continue dropping Drew Brees back against a pass rush and secondary that was causing problems. The rhythm of the offense was terrible in Week 1, which is where the loss of Sean Payton really shows up. For the Saints to bounce back, they need the offense to find more balance, but the real key is on defense. Allowing 40 points to a rookie quarterback isn't going to cut it. The defense never got going. Griffin was able to stand tall and find time to throw without any real struggles.
Brees had a big day with 339 yards and three touchdowns, but ultimately that wasn't enough. The good news is that the Saints can now regroup and figure out what's working and what's not. Against the Panthers next week, they have an opportunity to get back on track.

8.(17) Dallas Cowboys
A win over the Superbowl Champions...not a bad way to start the season. The Dallas Cowboys were better than the 24-17 final score would indicate. The offensive line did a fine job protecting Tony Romo against a front four that was hyped as the best in the game, which only sacked Romo just twice all game. However...I thought Romo would end up choking in this one...just like they always do...but they didn't!
I want to know if Dallas can keep up the hype, they've knocked off the champs, but now they have a big target on their back. Romo looked good, but he showed he still prone to make the stupid mistakes hes always been prone to.

7.(9) Atlanta Falcons
Matt Ryan and the offense were rolling on Sunday. Julio Jones scored twice, Ryan ran another in and the passing game in general looked as good as it ever has during Ryan's time in Atlanta.
The Falcons did win, but they also beat up a Kansas City team missing three starters on defense.

6.(7) Chicago Bears
The Bears didn't play their best football Sunday, and that is concerning when your playing the Colts. The mark of a good team is that even on their worst of days, they find a way to win. The Bears didn't have their best day, especially in the first half, but they were still 20 points better than the Indianapolis Colts—a huge margin of victory no matter the opponent.
Brandon Marshall had a big game for fantasy football players, but a look at his actual play will leave many disappointed. Marshall dropped too many passes, leaving Jay Cutler out to dry twice in the end zone. For the Bears' passing attack to really take off, Marshall can't have two dropped touchdowns. Chicago's schedule is also going to get a lot tougher as well.

5.(4) Houston Texans
When you get to the Top 5, the Rankings get really tough to move up and down, that's the case for Houston here, who stays pat despite a win, against the Dolphins. J.J. Watt is quickly becoming one of the NFL's most dominant defenders. We saw it in the 2011 playoffs, and that same ability was on display again this week. Watt and the Houston defense did exactly what was expected of them against the Miami Dolphins. Arian Foster and Andre Johnson looked like their regular All-Pro selves in this one. Johnson led the way for the passing game, and Foster's two touchdowns contributed to a 20-point win.
The Houston Texans will win a lot of football games if they play like they did in this one. They are my Super Bowl pick moving forward.

4.(8) Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens turned a seven-point game at halftime into a 44-13 beat down on the strength of Joe Flacco, Ray Rice and a defense that didn't look like they miss Terrell Suggs at all. There is an absurd amount of talent on this team all-around, and it was on display Monday. Baltimore was able to get pressure off the edge by blitzing Ray Lewis more, but rolling in Paul Kruger and Albert McClellan, and by adjusting the scheme so that someone was consistently pressuring Andy Dalton. And it worked.
On offense the Ravens couldn't have looked better. Joe Flacco showed off his arm strength and Torrey Smith's first game in his second season was a great start for a player with breakout potential.
Hard to find anything bad to say about the Ravens...but didn't we see this last year?

3.(1) Green Bay Packers
Losing at home in Week 1 is tough, but there are correctable issues here. The offensive line played fairly well, but the ball has to come out faster. Running against the 49ers is almost impossible, but if the Packers can establish more of a run game moving forward, it will give Rodgers more time to execute off play action and a moving pocket.
However, on the plus side, Rogers still looked like an MVP candidate, Clay Mathews is still a beast. Bottom line: The Packers still have more talent than most teams in the NFL. One loss is easy to overcome, its up to them to do it.

2. (2) New England Patriots
Surprise...The Pats are still elite. Offense rolled through a very good Tennessee Titans defense en route to 34 points and an easy Week 1 win. The Boston TE Party was in full effect with tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez each scoring a touchdown,. And if they couldn't get any better, THE PATRIOTS FINALLY HAVE A RUN GAME! Stevan Ridley went over 100 yards and put the ball in the end zone.
The defense is tougher, younger and faster. They made Chris Johnson look like Laurence Maroney in the back field, knocked Jake Locker out of the game, and held Tennessee to just 13 points.
Only bad thing to say about the Pats is the O-Line is still a concern. Not as bad as they looked in preseason, they were much improved from what we last saw of them. Still, defenders were able to get to Brady, just ask his nose.

1. (3) San Francisco 49ers
Knocking off Green Bay in impressive fashion puts the San Francisco 49ers in the driver's seat in the NFC. It's early, but the 49ers are clearly the team to beat in the NFC as of this morning.
The offense was very efficient on Sunday, with Alex Smith working on quick reads and making timing-based throws to keep the Packers secondary and pass rush off balance. It worked well, as San Francisco was able to keep a comfortable lead all game.

Extra Points
NFL Replacement Referees: B
While I, like the rest of us I'm sure miss the actually NFL Referees, I give the Replacement Refs a B for this week, missed some calls if you go to deadspin.com they point out all the missed calls, nothing major, some holding calls, some pass interference calls, but I think even the regular refs would have missed them. But they did make some fundamental errors, and the one that sticks out in my mind was giving Seattle a 4th time out when they already used them up, that was just bad management by the Refs and something I think would not have happened if the NFL Refs were in place.
The reason I think the league will be relatively safe while the NFL/Owners and Refs work out their differences is because the game now-a-days pretty much runs itself. Referees will never be responsibly for missing a touchdown that may or may not have been in bounds or if a player has possession, or whether a player turns the ball over or not because all of those plays are now automatically reviewed without a coach's challenge, the owners made sure they put that in the CBA, which makes me think whether they saw this lockout coming.
Right now, the NFL has let teams know to prepare for Replacement Refs for the first 5 weeks of the season, and unless one of them really botches a call, the advantage is with and will remain with the NFL and the owners. But I still feel the game will be better managed with the real officials, then the ones we have now, but for now, as long as the focus remains on the teams in the shiny colors, and not the zebra's, we should still all be able to enjoy our football.

My Picks for this Week (9-7 Last Week(9-7 Overall))
Gotta do better to defend my crown!

Green Bay over Chicago
There’s going to be a lot of points given up this week, with most of them coming through the air. Aaron Rodgers' and Co. get back on track with a momentum-building win in a very tough game.

Kansas City over the Bills
If the Bills team we say this past Sunday is the real Bills team, then they are going to be in for a world of hurt. Cassel is a lot better then what he showed this week and the Chiefs should run over the Bills

Cincinnati over Cleveland
The Browns' defense was impressive against the Philadelphia Eagles, but the Bengals' offensive attack will be more balanced, and the Browns showed a weakness against the run. Cincy will shut down Brandon Weeden en route to a big win.

Colts over the Vikings
The Vikings' defense will be a tough test for Andrew Luck, especially their pass rush. If Luck can find time to throw, he'll be able to get completions against the sub-par cornerbacks in Minnesota's secondary.

Raiders over the Dolphins
Ryan Tannehill couldn't get the offense going in Week 1. That should be the same case against Oakland who didn't look bad against the Chargers.

Patriots over the Cardinals
Duh. But Larry Fitzgerald will be a real test for this Patriots secondary.

Giants over Buccaneers
Giants need to put that loss to the Cowboys behind them, and with such a bad passing offense like the Bucs have, that should be easy..

Eagles over the Ravens
This was probably the hardest pick of the week, the Eagles are one of the most talented teams in the NFL on paper and the Ravens are just plain nasty, but I just have a feeling the Eagles we saw against the Browns wasn't the real Eagles, plus I know Tom, Eric, Andy, and Steve will all pick the Ravens. I will say this though, if Vick has another game like he just had...Philly may put out a hit on him.

Saints over the Panthers
The Saints shouldn't have to pass 50 times against a Panthers defense that can't stop the run. Expect a big day from Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles as the Saints pick up their first win

Houston over Jaguars
Blaine Gabbert looks good, but he will do nothing against Houston's D. Nothing to see here, moving on

Cowboys Over the Seahawks
Seattle is one of the toughest places to play for any team, but Dallas has the hot hand right now. If the offensive line plays like it did in Week 1, the Cowboys will leave Seattle with a 2-0 record.

Rams over Redskins
Robert Griffin III has proven in one game that he's going to be a nightmare for NFL defenses. The Rams have a very good defense and the overall speed to corral RG3 when he gets outside. I'm taking Jeff Fisher over Mike Shanahan in this one.

Jets over the Steelers
Two hard-hitting defenses face off, but it's New York who comes in with the hot-handed quarterback. Mark Sanchez quieted doubters in one game, and it's the New York offense that's being talked up as the reason for a 1-0 start. A banged up Pittsburgh roster is looking worse by the day.

Titans over the Chargers
The availability of Jake Locker will make the difference in this one. Kenny Britt is back, which helps the Tennessee offense, but the Titans will need more than four yards rushing from Chris Johnson to win this one. San Diego is talented, but the offensive line woes will have Tennessee dominating the line of scrimmage.

49ers over the Lions
The 49ers don't get a break after beating the Packers. The Lions were terrible in the first half as Matthew Stafford threw three interceptions. To beat the 49ers at home, Detroit has to be much more composed. It's tough to see that happening.

Falcons over the Broncos
Two of the best passing attacks from Week 1 face off in what should be a fun game. The Broncos beat a banged up Steeler team that may be overrated at this point. The Falcons' passing game, and what they can do with Michael Turner, will give them a slight edge in this one.

Tom Nappi's Week 2 Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-09-11T16:06:23-04:00

Here is the Week 2 Power Rankings Based on the way Week 1 of the NFL Season Went (#) represents Last Week Ranking

32 (31) Miami Dolphins (0-1) - Even worse than I thought, they might win 1 or 2 at most.

31 (32) Cleveland Browns (0-1) - Gave the Eagles a tough run, the defense looks pretty good for Cleveland but they have nothing offensively.

30 (30) Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1) - If you can't beat the Vikings good luck beating almost anyone.

29 (27) Seattle Seahawks (0-1) - Seattle could not keep up with an Arizona team with no offense...ick, perhaps they should have kept T.O.

28 (29) Arizona Cardinals (1-0) - They beat the Seahawks, still a lot to prove in Arizona.

27 (28) Minnesota Vikings (1-0) - They had a nice win against the Jags, but then again it was the Jags.

26 (26) Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) - The Chiefs defense looked awful against the Falcons but perhaps some promising signs on the offense.

25 (15) Buffalo Bills (0-1) The Bills drop 10 spots this week because their defense looked miserable against a scrappy Jets offense.

24 (22) Tennessee Titans (0-1) - The Titans looked miserable against the Patriots on both sides of the ball, it will be interesting to see what adjustments they make as next week comes.

23 (24) St. Louis Rams (0-1) - The Rams gave the Lions a run and played well on both sides of the ball perhaps a sign of good things to come for St. Louis.

22 (23) Oakland Raiders (0-1) The Raiders kept it close with the Chargers, but what continues to hurt the Chargers is the lack of discipline on their defense and it has cost the Raiders countless yards.

21 (20) Indianapolis Colts (0-1) - The Colts played the Bears in week 1 so I will give them a break and who expects the 1st game for a new quarterback to go well. Luck will get better, give it time.

20 (18) Cincinnati Bengals (0-1) The Bengals defense was completely garbage against the Ravens and got tired out and blown out.

19 (16) Carolina Panthers (0-1) - Panthers fans should be a bit concerned after a loss to the Bucs, especially with Cam Newton in his sophomore season, there is just something about sophomore starters.

18 (25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0) - After a nice win against Carolina perhaps Josh Freeman and the Bucs are back on track, there defense looked solid.

17 (11) Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) - The Eagles had a tough go at it with the Browns and even with so much talent on offense they struggled, if Vick goes down which always has a 50-50 shot the Eagles could be in big trouble.

16 (19) New York Jets (1-0) - The Jets crushed the Bills and dominated an awful defense and looked good but will have to get some W's against better defense to prove there not the same team that fell apart last season

15 (13) New Orleans Saints (0-1) - RG3 completely owned the Saints defense and Drew Brees will need a defense if New Orleans plans to win anything

14 (21) Washington Redskins (1-0) - RG3 could perhaps be better than anyone expected he was a powerhouse against the Saints throwing 19 for 26, 320 Yards and 2 touchdowns, the Redskins running game also looks like it could be a factor this year.

13 (8) Detroit Lions (1-0) - The Lions offense looked solid against the Rams, but the defense brings up big questions for Detroit, a little too close for comfort against the Rams this week.

12 (12) S.D. Chargers (1-0) - The Chargers had a nice game against the Raiders and the brand new running game looked good while Rivers looked solid, so the Chargers should be a threat all season long, but a lot of new faces for a deep playoff run.

11 (17) Dallas Cowboys (1-0) - The Cowboys got a great division win against the Giants Wednesday Night but early in the season the Cowboys have always been good, let's see if they can keep it up.

10 (10) Atlanta Falcons (1-0) - The Falcons crushed the Chiefs and the offense was terrific but let's face it, it was the Chiefs they beat. Show me more!

9 (9) Chicago Bears (1-0) - The Bears offense looked great against the Colts, and the O-Line appears to have gotten better but they must beat a better defense to move up.

8 (5) Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) - The Broncos gave the Steelers a beat down and Peyton got the best of the Pittsburgh defense. The big questions for Pittsburgh is can their aging defense still keep up with the elite Qb's.

7 (7) Baltimore Ravens (1-0) - The Ravens looked good against the Bengals and Flacco was throwing bullets, we will see if they can keep it up but Flacco looks as if he may have improved with the passing game.

6 (14) Denver Broncos (1-0) - Peyton looked like vintage Peyton Manning on the field against the Steelers and if the Denver defense can play as strong as they did Sunday, Denver can beat anyone.

5 (4) Green Bay Packers (0-1) - The Packers defense still looked to have some kinks against Alex Smith and the 49ers but playing perhaps the toughest defense in the league in week 1 is always tough.

4 (1) New York Giants (0-1) - The Giants move down this week as they lost week 1 against the Cowboys, The Giants should be okay but Dallas seemed to have a solid formula to shut down Eli Manning.

3 (3) Houston Texans (1-0) - The Texans crushed Miami, but it was Miami. I am looking forward to seeing the Texans against a better offense. They did look terrific on both sides of the ball however.

2 (6) S.F. 49ers (1-0) - If you can put up 40 against the Packers and beat them in week 1 that makes you the current best in the NFC in my book. Alex Smith seems to have improved and Randy Moss appears that he will be a threat for the 49ers this year.

1 (2) New England Patriots (1-0) - I know they played a Titans team with a new Quarterback but the Patriots looked solid on both sides of the ball and if Brady has a good defense this year look out!

Tom Nappi's 2012-2013 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-09-04T01:02:08-04:00

The NFL is back and based on last season, training camp and all the roster moves here is this seasons power rankings!

32) Cleveland Browns - The Browns have an extremely loyal fan base but they will continue to be terrible for years to come sorry Cleveland.

31) Miami Dolphins - They have no Quarterback, Wide Receivers or Running backs and on top of that they have no defense and pretty much no team. The Dolphins will sink fast.

30) Jacksonville Jaguars - Maurice Jones Drew is all they have and he does not even want to be there.

29) Arizona Cardinals - The Cardinals will likely start John Skelton and will not have to many wins with a slim offense and a very shaky defense.

28) Minnesota Vikings - The Vikings will need Adrian Peterson to be a monster this season as Joe Webb and Toby Gerhart are their Qb's. They do have hope but it is very little hope in a tough NFC North.

27) Seattle Seahawks - The Seahawks are in the weakest division in the NFL so who knows maybe they will get a playoff run if the 49ers somehow fall apart. Matt Flynn should give the Seahawks a decent QB.

26) Kansas City Chiefs - Matt Cassel has shown the past couple years to not quite be what the Chiefs hoped, expect Brady Quinn or Alex Tanney to give Cassel a run for his job if the Chiefs season starts out rough.

25) Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Josh Freeman had a rough year last year but a very good first year, so the Bucs season will really rely on how Freeman plays in his 3rd year.

24) St. Louis Rams - The Rams could be a surprise this year if Sam Bradford and Steven Jackson can step it up, last year Bradford threw a ridiculous amount of interceptions and like Freeman had a bad Sophomore year after a terrific first season.

23) Oakland Raiders - You never know what you are going to get out of the Raiders, they usually start off strong but fall apart because of disciplinary problems on their defense. Last year McFadden faced numerous injuries and the Raiders never were able to overcome it. If Carson Palmer is able to go back to his prime they could have a solid season and be competitive but don't expect a playoff birth anytime soon in Oakland.

22) Tennessee Titans - The Titans will likely end up starting Jake Locker over Hasselbeck to bring in the youth as they know Hasselbeck's time is limited as a legit starter. The Titans season will depend on if Chris Johnson can be more consistent with the running game and if Kenny Britt can stay out of jail or off the IR.

21) Washington Redskins - The Skins actually have hope this year and finally may have a QB as Robert Griffen III is set to start and with Pierre Garcon on the receiving core and a strong defense, the Skins may be a competitive team this year but don't expect a playoff birth as they are in the same division as Philly, Dallas and the Giants but within the next couple years look out for the Redskins they have a big pay role and are starting to put together a pretty solid team.

20) Indianapolis Colts - The Colts will be a wait and see team this year but should give the Texans a run for the division as Andrew Luck looks to be a solid QB that makes smart decisions. I don't think it will take Luck long to run the Colts offense and within the next couple years the Colts should be back to a competitive team within the AFC.

19) New York Jets - I may be ranking them too high here considering they went 8 and 8 last year and looked terrible in preseason but Rex Ryan knows how to run a defense so perhaps the Jets will be competitive and maybe Tim Tebow will play a role in their running game cough cough I mean as a QB and help the Jets but don't count on a playoff birth for the Jets.

18) Cincinnati Bengals - The Bengals did a terrific job last year getting a playoff birth under QB Andy Dalton and should be competitive this year as they have a solid running game and a pretty good defense but the fact they are in the same division as Baltimore and Pittsburgh does not help their cause.

17) Dallas Cowboys - I have lost faith that Romo can be clutch, I just don't see it happening lookout for another collapse by America's Team.

16) Carolina Panthers - Thats right Panthers at the half way mark of my rankings and it's for one reason CAM NEWTON! Look out NFC!

15) Buffalo Bills - I have high hopes for the Bills this year and they should be in the run for a wild card. If Ryan Fitzpatrick and the Bills offense can do what they did last year in the first half all season long they will be good. This year the Bills also added some defensive pieces such as Mario Williams that should help their defense quickly go from terrible to pretty good.

14) Denver Broncos - Peyton Manning will be the key this season for the Broncos. The big question is will Peyton be what he used to be or a shadow of his old self. The defense is not to strong in Denver and the receiving core is decent at best so it will certainly be interesting to see what Peyton can do.

13) New Orleans Saints - Despite being without head coach Sean Payton and a number of players such as Jonathan Vilma due to Bounty Gate, they will be a good team and a threat to win the NFC South because they have Drew Brees and he can run any offense.

12) San Diego Chargers - The Chargers performed well below expectations last year, I can't imagine they will be an 8 and 8 team this year but this year they have Peyton Manning in their division.

11) Philadelphia Eagles - The Eagles have a terrific all around team but the so called "Dream Team" was plagued by injuries last year and with Vick already getting shook up once in the preseason don't count on the Eagles being a Super Bowl contender.

10) Atlanta Falcons - The Falcons have a great shot at making the playoffs and even winning the NFC South but the question is can Matt Ryan get past the first round and unfortunately I have to say the B.C. Alum will not because he is a choke in the playoffs. Prove me wrong Matt I am rooting for you!

9) Chicago Bears - I have a feeling the Bears are going to be awesome this year because Jay Cutler finally has a solid offensive line and the Bears defense should be great this year if they can stay healthy.

8) Detroit Lions - The big question with Lions this year as it has been for the past couple seasons is can Matt Stafford stay healthy. The Lions have an improved defense and could be a very competitive team if Stafford can stay healthy. Another big concern for the Lions is Jahvid Best, he will most likely be out the first 6 games of the season so it will depend if the running game will be okay without him and it is certainly a big question mark.

7) Baltimore Ravens - The Ravens will be a playoff contender and have a solid season but their defense is another year older and they are still starting Joe Flacco. Ray Rice and the defense will be key for the Ravens.

6) San Francisco 49ers - The 49ers were the 2nd best team in the NFC last year and with their hard hitting incredible defense that could be the case this year. The edition of Randy Moss could also help out Alex Smith, it should be a very interesting season in 49er land.

5) Pittsburgh Steelers - The Steelers after this season will have serious contract issues as they did in this preseason but since they got their biggest receiving threat in Mike Wallace back, Big Ben and the Steelers should once again be a tough team to beat.

4) Green Bay Packers - The Packers had a terrific draft upgrading their defense and should be a very solid team all around, with Aaron Rodgers having the majority of his receiving core back look out for the Packers.

3) Houston Texans - Last year the Texans fell in the playoffs because of a season ending injury to Matt Schaub but with everyone back healthy the Texans should once again be one of the best all around teams in the NFL.

2) New England Patriots - The Patriots had a terrific draft and upgraded their defense significantly. They also added Brandon Lloyd to Brady's arsenal of receiving weapons so the Patriots should once again take the AFC East and make a deep post season run despite being the youngest Patriots team ever under Belichick.

1) New York Giants - Despite going 9 and 7 last season, the Giants won the Super Bowl, you must dethrone the champs to take the number one spot on my NFL Power Rankings.

Read More for Craig's Power Rankings

Michael Phelps The Holder of Almost Every Swimming Record

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-08-04T23:56:24-04:00

Michael Phelps goes out on top as he retires after the 2012 London Summer Olympics as perhaps the greatest Olympian ever!

22 Medals - Most out of anyone ever (2nd place overall is Larisa Latynina from Russia who has 18 medals)

Phelps won those 22 medals in 24 total events, Phelps won medals in 2004, 2008 and 2012, 2nd place in only event in 2008

Phelps has 4 gold and 2 silver at london olympics he won final 4 events.

Phelps also holds the record with 18 gold medals, 2nd place has 10.

Michael Phelps perhaps the most amazing olympian in history!

Other Olympians to Note
-Missy Franklin led the way as the United States set a world record in the 4×100 medley relay Saturday, giving the Regis Jesuit student her fourth gold medal of these Olympics. Franklin gave her team the lead with a 58.5 second split in the first leg, swimming the backstroke. The U.S. never trailed after that, and finished in 3 minutes, 52.05 seconds to best the previous mark of 3:52.19 set by China in 2009. Missy won 5 medals in London, 4 of them Gold!

-Serena Williams won the Women's Tennis Singles Gold as she knocked off Russia's Maria Sharapova in the championship match.

-Oscar Pistorius of South Africa finished second in his heat of the 400 meters and qualified for the semifinals with a time of 45.44 seconds, - had to battle to be able to qualify to compete in Olympics due to his prosthetic legs.

-London Olympics 2012: US gymnastics champion Gabby Douglas overcomes adversity at home to snag gold medals

-The USA Women Gymnastics team won Gold at the 2012 London Summer Olympics

Medal Count for 2012 Olympics in London

Hear More about the Olympics all month long on The Sports Blast and Fired Up Sports Talk with Tom Nappi and Craig D'Alessandro

MLB Trade Deadline

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-07-31T16:17:09-04:00

MLB Major Trades at the MLB trade deadline.

Well the MLB Trade Deadline has came and went and here are the big deals, you will notice that the Sox only had a minor deal despite having a record just above .500 and 4th in the A.L. East

--BOSTON -- The Red Sox on Tuesday acquired lefty reliever Craig Breslow from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-handed reliever Matt Albers and outfielder Scott Podsednik, according to a major league source.
The 31-year-old Breslow has a 2.70 ERA in 43 1/3 innings for the Diamondsbacks this season, with 42 strikeouts and 13 walks. He has held hitters to a .233 average.

-The Red Sox also trades Lars Anderson for a Minor League Prospect seconds before the deadline.

-Phillies Trade Hunter Pence to Giants, Pence, 29, hit .271 with 17 home runs and 59 RBIs in 101 games this year with Philadelphia. His homer total considerably exceeds that of any existing Giant -- Buster Posey has a club-high 13 -- and his RBI total fits between Posey's 61 and Melky Cabrera's 52. Phillies Get: Schierholtz who finished his Giants tenure with a .270 batting average, 23 homers and 119 RBIs in 503 games after he reached the Majors in 2007. This year, he compiled a .257 average with five homers and 17 RBIs in 77 games. His final act as a Giant was lining a run-scoring single in the 10th inning on Monday night as the Giants lost to the Mets, 8-7.
Seth Rosin, a non-roster invitee to Spring Training this year, went 2-1 with a 4.31 ERA and 10 saves in 34 games, including five starts, for San Jose this season. The 23-year-old was San Francisco's fourth-round pick in the 2010 Draft. and 21 year old catcher Tommy Joseph

-The Dodgers added veteran outfielder and leadoff hitter Shane Victorino to their collection of stars in a trade with the Phillies for reliever Josh Lindblom and Minor League pitcher Ethan Martin on Tuesday.

-The Dodgers also acquired reliever Brandon League from Seattle in exchange for a pair of Minor Leaguers on Monday.

-Braves acquire left-handed starting pitcher Paul Maholm and veteran backup outfielder Reed Johnson from the Cubs in exchange for highly-regarded pitching prospect Arodys Vizcaino and Jaye Chapman to the Chicago Cubs

-Texas acquired Geovany Soto from the Cubs on Monday night for Double-A Frisco right-hander Jacob Brigham, the club announced on Tuesday morning. Soto, who won the National League Rookie of the Year Award and was named an All-Star in 2008, is hitting a career-worst .195 with six home runs and 14 RBIs in 51 games. But he has had his best month of the season in July, hitting .250 with one home run, five RBIs and eight runs scored.

-The Cincinnati Reds acquired Kansas City Royals closer Jonathan Broxton and will make him their setup man, according to a high-ranking Reds' official with direct knowledge of the trade.

New England Loses Tough Conference Final Match in Carolina.

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-07-24T13:25:27-04:00

The New England Intensity traveled southward to
Durham, NC to face off, for the first time in team
history, with the Carolina Phoenix in the Eastern
Conference Finals. The end result was not a good
one for New England, as they fell just short of a
return to the championship game, 7-0.

As per tradition, the weather was very hot and
humid—mid 90’s even at the 7pm kickoff time. In
fact, the host squad was confident that the ambient
conditions would favor them, so much so that their
head coach went on record saying so.

The New England defense, which would have
perhaps it’s finest outing in team history, jumped all
over the Carolina offense, with DB Gumby Nesbitt
corralling her team-leading 5th interception on the
first play for the Phoenix and returning it down to
the 32 yard line of Carolina—a great opportunity
for the Intensity right out of the gate! The blue held
Carolina’s air assault to just 4 for 23 passing when
all was said and done. Further, they surrendered
barely 3 yards per carry on the ground to the high-
octane Phoenix offense (the 7 points that the home
team would post in this game was the lowest total all
season—in fact, the lowest total in recent memory for
the perennial powerhouse).

Unfortunately, the O could not capitalize, turning the
ball over on downs several plays later inside the red
zone.

Despite a questionable pass interference call on NE
during the next series—providing a big, fat first down
for the home team at midfield—the D would hold and
force a punt that was downed just over the Intensity
side of midfield.

A sack, false start, and 7 yard loss on a pass play on
consecutive snaps dug a deep hole for the visitors on
their second possession (to the tune of 3rd and 30).
The nifty catch and run between QB Rebecca Lopez
and WR Tricia Donovan, good for 13 yards, barely
made a dent in the yards required to move the chains
and out came DL-turned-OT-and-P Bri Giarrusso to
punt away.

Possession #3 for Carolina was thwarted by a false
start of their own on 1st down, then some tough
rush defense on the next two plays by Lisa Close
(5 tackle assists), Nikia Speed (4 solo and 8 tackle
assists), Kate Miechkowski (2 solo and 7 assists) and
Charlene Casey (2 and 10), served up 3rd and long.
The pass attempt on 3rd down sailed incomplete and
out came the Phoenix punt team.

Donovan (who led the team with 5 catches for 45
yards) picked up a first down from Lopez, crossing
midfield. Lisa Vincent fumbled on the next play and
the host team recovered the ball just inside their 40.
A disturbing trend of drive-killing miscues for the
blue offense was starting to become apparent . . .

In what would be the only scoring drive of the
game, Carolina pieced together a 10 play series that
straddled the break between the 1st and 2nd quarters
and was keyed by a 32 yard completion to inside the
NE 2. Two plays later the score was 6-0, Carolina.
The XPA was good and 19 minutes into the game,
the Phoenix had a 7 point lead.

New England did not have much of an answer on
it’s ensuing possession, punting after 3 incomplete
passes. No matter, as the next defensive stand by the
Intensity was particularly noteworthy—they notched
3 of their 7 sacks during it and forced yet another
punt by Carolina. Speed had 1.5 of her 3 sacks on
this drive!

Christine Sampson was taking the snaps for New
England at this point and connected with Donna
Bruce (Bruce would catch three passes in the game,
each for a first down, to go along with 2 solo and 4
tackle assists) on her first two pass attempts, moving
the ball across midfield. Erica Adams rattled off 9 of
her 27 rushing yards on the next play and NE enjoyed
3rd and 1 from the Phoenix 34. Unfortunately a delay
of game penalty pushed the blue back and Sampson
threw an interception to end the possession.

The D would remain steadfast with Miechkowski
getting one of her 2 sacks on 3rd and 3, forcing the
home bunch to punt after the 5 yard loss. With time
winding down in the half, Sampson connected with Donovan for a first down but into the locker rooms
the teams went, Carolina holding tight to the 7-0 lead.

Of note was the conspicuous ease the Intensity was
dealing with the heat—much unlike the home team
who had several players vomiting into barrels on
their sideline and having to come out of the game
at various times during the first half. It looked as
if this would play into New England’s hands as the
game/war moved into the 2nd half. In yet another
instance of the football gods turning their backs on
the visitors, a lighting storm passed through and
extended the half time break by about 45 minutes—
providing crucial extra time for the exhausted and
dehydrated Carolina players to rest and replace lost
fluids.

Optimistic nonetheless, the Intensity took the field to
start the 3rd quarter, eager to score and win! Vincent
would return the deep kickoff 23 yards and Lopez led
the offense on to the gridiron. A 15 yard Adams run
and a pass interference call had NE inside the 35 of
Carolina, but four ineffective plays later, the ball was
turned over on downs.

Picking up right where they left off, the Intensity D
stood tall, forcing another 3 and out due to big plays
by Mocha Torres (1 solo and 4 tackle assists), Close
and Giarrusso. Donovan had a respectable 14 yard
punt return but an unrelated block in the back penalty
moved that progress back 15.

Vincent (team-leading 55 rushing yards to go along
with 6 tackle assists) picked up 5 on first down, and a
Carolina offsides aided the Intensity’s cause but they
were unable to capitalize and Giarrusso was called
upon for another punt (she punted 6 times in this
game).

A three and out capped off by an Adams interception
gave the ball right back to the Intensity on their 41,
but they responded with a three and out of their own.

Things looked grim for the blue as the Phoenix
connected for a 59 yard pass that put them on the
Intensity 11. Two plays later they were 3rd and 1
from the 2 and the D, in amazing fashion, held the
line—Torres defending a pass on 3rd down and Casey
and Edwards (4 assists) shut the door on the 4th down
run, resulting in a turnover on downs!

New England scarcely got any breathing room in the
next 3 plays for Giarrusso’s next punt—this one a
timely 36 yarder downed at the N 44. Speed dropped
the runner for a 4 yard loss as the 3rd quarter ended.
Two plays later, she, clearly doing all she could
to ensure no more points were put up by Carolina,
sacked the QB to force a punt.

Perhaps inspired by Speed’s play, the O kicked into
gear with Vincent gashing the home team defense for
a 38 yard run to march into Phoenix territory. Lopez
would soon thereafter hit Adams and Brenna Leveille
on consecutive first down passes of 9 and 15 yards,
respectively, bringing the blue inside the red zone
and looking like they would finally break the
scoreboard ice!! It is worth noting that OL Torrance
Brown, playing on a banged up ankle (she suffered a
high ankle sprain two weeks prior in the Philadelphia
game) was, along with the rest of the O line, having
a great game against the very physical and athletic D
line of the Phoenix!

That said, 2 plays later, on 3rd an 11, a high snap
Lopez had to scamper back 22 yards for forced
another punt and another prime scoring opportunity
was squandered.

The home team, knowing they dodged a bullet and
tasting blood in the water, would come out fired up
on offense, trying to run the ball and consume as
much clock as possible. They were having success in
this effort, picking up 2 first downs before two short
gains and a block in the back forced up a punt.

In another unfortunate turn of events, the sure-handed
Donovan, hoping to put the blue in great position
to score, bobbled and lost the punt that Carolina
recovered on the Intensity 46. The Phoenix picked
up right where they left off running the ball and
got all the way to the Intensity 30 yard line before
they returned to trying to move the ball through
the air . . . they probably should not have as Speed
and Miechkowski each tallied another sack for a
combined 17 yards lost for the home team and a
turnover on downs.

With the clock persistently ticking away, the New
England offense had to get yards and quick if they
wanted avoid the looming loss. Lopez was sacked on
1st down but completed another pass to Donovan on
2nd that got those lost yards back and then some. The final nail in the coffin came on 3rd down as another
high snap was covered up—this time by Carolina—
14 yards behind scrimmage and it was all elementary
as one run play and a knee later the game was over.

The Intensity would fall short, this season, on the
goal of returning to Texas and taking what they
left there in 2011. The bitter taste of losing this
winnable game will hopefully fuel their efforts and
preparations for 2013.

Congratulations from MA SPORTS WEB ON A TERRIFIC SEASON FOR THE NEW ENGLAND INTENSITY!

MLB Midseason Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-07-10T00:44:33-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

From Worst to first and my playoff prediction as we have reached Mid-Season

30) Houston Astros (33-53) - Will there ever again be hope for the Astros

29) Chicago Cubs (33-52) - Will they ever be good enough for even the playoffs

28) Colorado Rockies (33-52) - Back to their normal selves after 2 years of glory

27) San Diego Padres (34-53) - Another Rough Year for the Padres

26) Seattle Mariners (36-51) - Felix Hernandez and that's about it

25) Minnesota Twins (36-49) - Injuries and rough season so far for the Twins

24) Philadelphia Phillies (37-50) - The most shocking team by far, no one could have predicted this but poor offense and injuries have hurt the Phillies chances at coming around from this one.

23) Kansas City (37-47) - Only 10 games below .500 this is actually pretty good for the Royals.

22) Milwaukee Brewers (40-45) - The loss of Prince Fielder seems to have to stuck a dagger in Brewers playoff hopes.

21) Miami Marlins (41-44) - The addition of Heath Bell, Jose Reyes and Mark Buhrle and 3 games below .500 at all star break = very disappointing. P.S. go back to your old uniforms and get rid of those awful Green walls in the new stadium but keep the bakini dancers.

20) Arizona Diamondbacks (42-43) - Still in the playoff hunt only 4.0 games back but don't expect much

19) Toronto Blue Jays (43-43) - About what I expected, good pitching....no hitting.

18) Oakland Athletics (43-43) - Pretty good pitching and defense as usual but no hitting, but don't count on much

17) Boston Red Sox (43-43) - .500 at All Star Break. Time to worry if the Sox starting pitching doesn't start pitching well, they are done!

16) Detroit Tigers (44-42) - After a rough start, the Tigers have turned things around and only 3.5 games behind in the Central.

15) Tampa Bay Rays (45-41) - There line up is a disgrace but the Rays pitching is terrific, which is why the Rays will be in the hunt for the 2nd wild card spot.

14) Baltimore Orioles (45-40) - I will be shocked if the Orioles keep this up but they will continue to get better every year and will be a competitor in the A.L. East within the next 2 years if they aren't already.

13) Cleveland Indians (44-41) - The Indians are right in the hunt for the A.L. Central and have improved drastically from last years horror show.

12) San Francisco Giants (46-40) - Tim Lincecum has been a disappointment but they continue to remain competitive in the N.L. West

11) St. Louis Cardinals (46-40) - The Bearded nobodies in the Cardinals bullpen will emerge towards the end of the season...BEWARE!

10) New York Mets (46-40) - The Mets have had quite the turn around this year and R.A. Dickey has led the way as he had an terrific first half of the season.

9) Cincinnati Reds (47-38) - The Reds are shockingly terrific this year and are not going away. The Reds will be a wild card threat and perhaps an N.L. Central threat.

8) Atlanta Braves (46-39) - The Braves are playing terrific through the first half and with their solid rotation will be around come playoff time.

7) L.A. Angels (48-38) - The Angels should at the very least clinch a wild card spot in the A.L. they have had a tremendous turnaround since their awful start and with the emergence of Mike Trout and Mark Trumbo and the turnaround of Albert Pujols, they are an easy World Series contender.

6) Chicago White Sox (47-38) - Ever since the addition of Kevin Youkalis the White Sox are playing .700 baseball. Youk seems to be just the piece they needed to turn their season around. The White Sox are on top of the Central and will be around come playoff time. Youkalis was the A.L. Player of the week this week!

5) L.A. Dodgers (47-40) - The Dodgers are surprisingly on top of the N.L. West but it has shown to be a pretty weak division this year however the Dodgers have been playing well and should be competitive come playoff time.

4) Pittsburgh Pirates (48-37) - Hell has frozen over. The Pirates are a good team, 11 games above .500 and in 1st in the NL Central at Mid Season...This could be the year the Pirates go from Worst to First! P.S. Andrew McCutchen is a beast!

3) Washington Nationals (49-34) - The Nationals are an unbelievable story and have climaxed quicker than most thought as they lead the N.L. East and should be taken very seriously.

2) Texas Rangers (52-34) - The Rangers are playing elite as expected and will certainly more than likely have a deep playoff run. The fear is will the Texas Rangers be the Buffalo Bills of Baseball and lose 3 World Series Straight.

1) New York Yankees (52-33) - Despite losing Mariano Rivera to a more than likely season ending injury and having Brett Gardner, C.C. Sabathia, Andy Pettitte and Michael Pineda go to the D.L. The Yankees are back to being the best team in baseball and should be feared by everyone come playoff time.

Tom's Midseason predictions

Here is how I believe the playoffs should break down after a 2012 first half of irony and surprises in MLB.

NL East - Washington Nationals NL Central - St. Louis Cardinals NL West - L.A. Dodgers

National League Wild Card
Atlanta @ Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Wins!

Division Series
Pittsburgh VS Washington - Washington in 6
St. Louis VS L.A. Dodgers - St. Louis in 7

Washington over St. Louis in 7, Thats Right The Nationals make the World Series!

AL East - New York Yankees AL Central - Detroit Tigers AL West - Texas Rangers

American League Wild Card
Chicago White Sox @ L.A. Angels - Angels Win!

Division Series
Yankees VS Angels - Yankees in 7
Detroit VS Texas - Texas in 7

Yankees Over Texas in 7

World Series
Yankees over Nationals in 6 games!

Let's Flash Back.
Tom's Prediction Prior to Season Start - Most of my picks are still very alive, except the Phillies they will not win the World Series and probably won't make the playoffs!

AL East - N.Y. Yankees
AL Central - Detroit Tigers
AL West - Texas Rangers
WC 1- L.A Angels
WC 2- Boston Red Sox

NL East - Philadelphia Phillies
NL Central - St. Louis Cardinals
NL West - S.F. Giants
WC 1- Miami Marlins
WC 2 - Atlanta Braves

AL Winner - N.Y. Yankees
NL Winner - Philadelphia Phillies

WS Winner - Philadelphia Phillies in 6

Ray Allen is a Big Baby!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-07-10T00:02:38-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

Ray Allen is a player that can now be added to the long list of overpaid babies that have played for a professional sports team. Why you may ask? We'll it's not because he went to the Miami Heat, it's the fact that he made comments on how the Celtics owner Danny Ainge and Head Coach Doc Rivers did not appreciate him.

Hey Ray if the Celtics did not appreciate you then why would the Celtics bother even making you a 2 year, $12 million dollar offer with a no trade clause. Ray Allen is a 37 year old washed up Shooting Guard who the Celtics offered 6 million dollars to for the next 2 seasons while the Heat can only afford to give him 2 years, 6 Million.

I understand if Ray Allen wants to join the Heat to win a championship before he retires but this is not the case based on the comments he has made the only reasons he chose to leave the Celtics is because he was replaced by a younger, more athletic Avery Bradley in the starting 5 and he was hurt by some trade rumors that floated around his name during the last NBA season. Even at this point in his career Ray Allen fails to understand that nearly every player will be involved in a trade rumor at one point during their career (just ask Paul Pierce) and as their age increases, they lose a step and risk being replaced by a younger, more athletic player.

The funny thing about this story is Ray Allen will likely get the same amount of playing time if not less with the Miami Heat and certainly will not be a starter in the majority of Miami's games. Ray Allen left purely because of emotion, this was not a business decision. We know for a fact that he did not go to Miami because of money and we can also assume that he did not join Miami purely to win a championship, he joined to spit in the face of the organization that brought him the only championship of his career because he was almost traded and he was replaced in the starting lineup some games by a more athletic player. If you think this is a reason to leave just look at all the trade rumors that the face of the Celtics, Paul Pierce has been involved in. I don't see him complaining.

Hey Ray Allen your 37 years old, most 37 year olds don't start, get over it! Have fun in Miami, you certainly won't be missed in Boston, the last thing any clubhouse needs is a baby like you, and if you think you were disrespected by Celtics management or fans for a second just remember you were named as being part of the modern Big 3, named after 3 of the best players to ever wear an NBA uniform in Larry Bird, Kevin Mchale and Robert Parish.

Lastly a little business advice for Ray Allen, next time you want to be respected by a fan base, don't bash the franchise that brought you your first and hopefully only championship you will ever win in your career. Trade rumors and losing the starting job are part of a long-term athletes career get over it, this is business. Enjoy south beach you big baby can't wait until you get a sea of boo's from the Boston crowd and there will be plenty of boo's. (If Boston will boo Adam Vinatieri on a 2 and 14 Colts team they will certainly boo Ray Allen)

New England Advances to Conference Final!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-07-05T14:41:05-04:00

The New England Intensity won their conference semi-final match, 31-13, on Saturday, 6/30/12, against the Philadelphia Firebirds on a very warm summer afternoon at Medway’s Hanlon Memorial Field.

A lot of hard work by the staff and players in the preceding two weeks paid early dividends for New England as they stuck to the game plan and took control early in this contest.

The home crowd did not have to wait long for something the cheer about as the visitors turned the ball over on downs in the game’s opening series, giving the Intensity the ball at the Philadelphia 40 yard line. Two sizable runs (one by Lisa Vincent, one for Nikia Speed) and a Rebecca Lopez-to-Erica Adams pass for 20 yards had the Blue on the 1-yard line. Vincent, who would lead the team with 82 yards on 10 carries, punched in the first of two rushing TDs on the next play, giving NE a 6-0 lead with 9:12 remaining in the 1st quarter. Record-breaking kicker Lola Kantak drilled the extra point attempt (she’d end the day with 7 points by placekicking—4 XPAs and 1 FGM).

On the Firebirds ensuing series, they did not fare much better. Nikia Speed (1 solo tackles, 6 assists, half a sack, as well as 29 rushing yards on 5 carries), Charlene Casey (team-leading 11 tackle asssits) and Lisa Close (6 tackle assists) forced a 3-and-out for the visiting squad that was fair-caught at the Philly 42.

A 5-yard run by rookie Heather Milan-Eagleson was followed soon by a 37-yard TD pass from Lopez to Brenna Leveille not even 4 minutes after their first score. Lopez threw for 111 yards including 2 TDs and 3 first downs.
The Firebirds 3rd possession was another 3-and-out (due in no small part to several of Alie Powers’ first few kickoffs sailing about 40 yards on average and solid coverage by Vincent, Gumby Nesbitt and others). These first 3 kickoffs by NE were returned for a net -1 yards and Philadelphia’s explosive kick return game was held to less than a 6 yard average for the game.

Kantak hit her 4th FG of the season on the Intensity’s next possession, pushing the score to 17-0 NE with about 8 minutes left in the 2nd.

Another short possession for the visitors was followed by another Intensity TD—an 11 yard run by Vincent with just under 2 minutes in the half.

Lopez connected with Milan-Eagleson early in the 3rd for the Blue’s last score of the game. The 13 yard reception was her first career receiving TD and with 12:03 left in the 3rd, New England enjoyed a 31-0 lead.

A few miscues in the 4th quarter gave the opportunistic and gamey Firebirds the chance to get on the scoreboard . . . They picked off Lopez with about 9 and a half minutes left in the game and returned it 20 yards for a TD to break the shut out bid for the home team. Two plays into the next drive for the Intensity saw a snap sail high of the QB that Philadelphia recovered inside the red zone. The Blue D held strong for several plays but eventually a very athletic play by the visitor’s WR hauled in a 14 yard touchdown pass with 5:32 left. The XPA was off the mark and the score stood at 31-13, it would be the final score.

New England had a relatively-balanced attack on Offense, once again, with 111 passing and 152 rushing yards (averaging well over 5 yards per carry). They outgained their opponents who had 99 passing and 50 rushing yards (incidentally, less than 3 yards per carry)—most of the yards coming in the 2nd half.

In addition to leading the team in rushing yards and rushing TDs (this game and for the season, thus far), Vincent had two half sacks and a 54 yard interception—setting up Kantak’s aforementioned field goal in this game.

Other defensive standouts for NE were Donna Bruce (team-leading 3 solo tackles, 2 assists and a pass defended), Kate Miechkowski (4 tackle assists and a sack), and Erica Adams (4 tackle assists and half a sack), who also had 21 rushing yards on 4 carries.

New England now will advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2nd straight season. They will be preparing to travel to Durham, North Carolina to face the Carolina Phoenix for a 7/14/12 game. The Phoenix won their semi-final game against the Arlington (Texas) Impact the same evening as the Intensity/Firebird game.

Intensity Rights the Ship, Defeats Southern Maine 58-0!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-20T13:22:32-04:00

The New England Intensity returned to the friendly confines of Medway High School’s Joseph P. Hanlon Field this past Saturday where they locked horns with the Rebels of Southern Maine. What was forecast to be a sunny, warm day turned cloudy, breezy and cool for a majority of the contest, but this humdrum weather did nothing to dim the onslaught that the home squad served up for their guests!

Eager to get back to work after losing to Montreal in the previous weeks’ game, New England jumped right on the Rebels, receiving the game’s opening kick and returning it for 18 yards to just over midfield. A combination of Rookie Heather Milan-Eagleson’s runs (she’d lead the team with 69 rushing yards) and QB Rebecca Lopez’ arm (passing for an efficient 96 yards on 6 completions—4 of which were touchdowns, one a first down) put the Blue inside the red zone early. LB/RB Nikia Speed gashed in for the first score of the game fewer than 4 minutes into the quarter. Speed would lead the team with 3 solo tackles and 10 tackle assists this afternoon as well!

Things would only get worse for Southern Maine . . .
Unable to move the ball on their opening possession, they lined up to punt but a bobbled snap served up 1st and 10 from the M26 for New England. Lisa Vincent (62 rushing yards on just 3 carries to go along with a solo tackle, 6 tackle assists and a pass defended) found the end zone on the ensuing play to put NE on top 13-0 halfway through the opening period.

The Rebels fumbled New England’s kickoff and LB Kate Miechkowski (5 tackle assists) recovered it at the M 41. A few plays later, Lopez connected 24 yards through the air to TE Brenna Leveille for the first of two TD catches she’d have during the game (she, too, had a busy day, amassing 46 yard receiving on 3 catches, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, 2.5 sacks, a solo tackle and 3 tackle assists).

The first quarter would end with the score 20-0 in favor of the home team and the second quarter would prove to be even more difficult for the Rebels as another bad snap on an attempted punt gave NE the ball deep in Southern Maine territory. The Intensity settled for a FG attempt that Kicker Lola Kantak Drilled from 29 yards, pushing the score to 23-0.

Later on in that quarter, when the visitors successfully got a punt off, Donovan nearly returned it 43 yards for a TD; however, she stepped out of bounds at the 10 yard line and there the Intensity took over possession. She would have four punt returns and average nearly 25 yards apiece in this game!

Leveille’s 2nd TD catch came a few players later. Another 3-and-out for the visitors was followed by another bad snap that gave NE the ball in the red zone again . . . this time at the 15. Lopez hit Rookie WR/QB Christine Sampson for her first touchdown reception of her career and the score now stood at 36-0. Kantak split the uprights on the PAT to add another point to the total, AND also broke the Intensity’s all time career points by place kicking record! Her field goal several minutes earlier broke two separate individual records—most FG made in a season and in a career for New England, so congrats to Lola! The Intensity offense, as a whole, was fairly well balanced and very effective—passing for 116 yards and rushing for 161.

The Defense for NE was particularly stout, holding Maine to negative total yards [-51 to be precise]. Due, in no small part to big plays . . . DT Jennifer “Coco” Edwards (3 solo tackles, 5 tackle assists) would give Southern Maine no quarter. Late in the 2nd, she tackled for loss the Rebel ball carrier, forced and recovered a fumble and handed possession back to the Intensity offense that was humming on all 11 cylinders. One shot, one kill . . . Lopez launched a 33 yard TD bomb to WR/DB Donna Bruce just inside the 2 minute warning for the first half.

Up 45-0 at halftime, the 3rd and 4th quarters were largely elementary. DB/WR Gumby Nesbitt intercepted her 3rd pass of the season and returned it 20 yards for a touchdown in the 3rd. Milan-Eagleson would steamroll her way to touchdown late in the 4th and WR/K Alie Powers’ PAT would be the game’s final score, 58-0.

Other notables for NE were: DE/TE Erin Diette, who had 2 solo tackles, 4 tackle assists, a forced fumble
and a fumble recovery. LB Charlene Casey with 7 tackle assists. And C/LB Michelle Breden (seeing her first substantial action at LB all season) with a solo tackle [for loss] and 3 tackle assists.

The win gave NE a final regular season mark of 6-2, good for their 5th consecutive trip to the playoffs! They will host the Philadelphia Firebirds, a team they have never before played, at Hanlon Field on Saturday, June 30th. Kickoff is 4pm and the Intensity invites football fans everywhere to come out and cheer them on!

Miscues, Montreal Downs New England

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-12T13:39:04-04:00

The New England Intensity traveled to Montreal this past weekend to take on the undefeated, division-leading Montreal Blitz in an evening tilt on a pleasant late spring night.

Things got off to rough start for the visitors, surrendering a TD on the opening kickoff as the Blitz faked a reverse and went 75 yards to paydirt. Montreal scored on their next possession—courtesy of a few miscues by the Intensity--and would enjoy a 14-0 lead after the first quarter.

Bad field position plagued NE this entire game (their average starting position was their own 29, while Montreal started, on average, on the Intensity 32). In fact, the Intensity started on the Blitz side of the field only once all game, while Montreal started all of their possessions except one on the New England side of midfield. The Blitz took full advantage of this, scoring 14 more points in the 2nd quarter.

Montreal’s return game was a problem for the Intensity all night, too, and was a major factor contributing to the field position woes previously-mentioned. The Blitz averaged 40 yards per kickoff return and 20 yards per punt return.

New England showed signs of life in the 3rd quarter as rookie QB Christine Sampson (12 for 29 for 115 yds, 6 first down, 3 INT), led the Blue on a scoring drive capped off by a 5 yard TD run by Sampson.
She spread the ball around well during the game, linking up with Tricia Donovan for 3 completions (including a 42 yarder), Brenna Leveille for 3 completions (2 for first downs), two to Kimberly Boroyan (both first downs), two to Erica Adams (one for a first down) and one to Gumby Nesbitt.

While the passing game was decent for New England, their running game was not . . . the normally-potent ground assault gained exactly zero total yards on 15 carries.

The Defense for New England held up well in the 2nd half, not giving up any points in the 3rd and only one TD in the 4th (an important side note, Montreal did NOT substitute for any of their starters). The D only gave up 40 total rushing yards to Montreal (on 17 attempts—a scant 2.4 yards per carry) and 143 yards through on 13 for 26 passing; however, the home team was able to make several key big plays through the air—including 6 first downs and 2 touchdowns.

Nikia Speed had a stand-out game for the Blue’s defense, tallying a thunderous tackle, 7 tackle assists and a sack. Lisa Close, playing a great game even for her high standards and expectations, led the team with 8 tackle assists and notched half a sack as well. Lisa Vincent had 4 solo tackles and 4 assisted tackles. Donna Bruce logged 2 solo tackles, 5 tackle assists and 2 passes defended. Kate Miechkowski had 2 solo tackles and 2 tackle assists to go along with a pass defended. Mocha Torres had 3 very aggressive tackles, two on special teams. Charlene Casey had 2 solo tackles and 3 tackle assists. Bri Giarrusso and Coco Edwards had 3 tackle assists each.

Alie Powers, in her first game doing kickoffs, had a respectable 37.5 yard average and Tricia Donovan was busy, returning 5 kickoffs.

So, despite a handful of noteworthy performances, the team came up well short in this contest and must now identify and fix the various problems that surfaced north of the border. There is not a lot of time to do so as the final regular season tilt is 6/16/12 back at home (for the first time in over a month) with the Intensity playing host to the Southern Maine Rebels.

New England Intensity Shut Out Maine in Rain Shortened Game

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-02T22:14:42-04:00

Intensity Continues to Roll, Beats Southern Maine 31-0

The New England Intensity kept their win-streak in tact, downing the Southern Maine Rebels 31-0 in Portland during a monsoon (low 50s, driving down-pouring rain).

The horrendous weather actually moved the officiating crew to call the game late in the 3rd quarter (the ponding water on the turf field was, in their opinion, creating unsafe playing conditions for both teams). As the score was already 31-0 at halftime, both squads agreed to have a running clock in the 2nd half.

With the result of the coin flip having the Intensity start the game going into the wind, their first few possessions were unimpressive, to say the least. They were able to right the ship, courtesy of a 15 yard Lisa Vincent run, followed soon thereafter by a 17 yard pass from rookie QB Christine Sampson—making her first start—to Erica Adams. The Adams Show continued, with an 11 yard run and a 35 yard TD scamper (the first of the season for her). This score came with less than 3 minutes left in the first.

On the next offensive series, Vincent picked up a low snap and turned on the jets up the right side for a 39 yard TD run, pushing the score to 13-0. Both she and Adams had over 40 yards rushing on 5 total carries between them.

Sampson threw the first TD of her career, connecting with Brenna Leveille midway through the 2nd quarter for a 17 yard strike. She tossed another, an 18-yarder, to Tricia Donovan shortly before halftime. Sampson ended the day going 6 for 16 for 92 yards with 2 TDs, 2 first downs and only one pick.

Sandwiched in between the air assault touchdowns was rookie phenom Heather Eagleson slashing 9 tough yards for her 3rd TD in as many games. She’d finish the game with over 5 yards per carry. In all, the Blue gained nearly 150 yards on the ground in this contest (only 17 carries—over 8 yards per rush).

The Intensity D pitched another shutout, the 3rd of the season so far, holding the power running attack of the Rebels to 0 total yards on offense on 25 carries (not even accounting for penalties). They did not attempt any passes.

The Intensity linebackers were active as ever . . . Vincent led the way with 8 tackle assists and a forced fumble and Charlene Casey had 7 assists of her own.

Kate Miechkowski had a solo tackle, 6 assists, a fumble recovered and a forced fumble. Adams had a solo tackle, 5 assists and a fumble recovery.

The D line played well, too. Lisa Close had 7 tackle assists and forced a fumble. Coco Edwards had 5 assists while Aimee Gauvin had three. Bri Giarrusso led the team with 2 solo tackles and chipped in 3 assists. Defensive Backs Donna Bruce and Andrea Covelli had a solo tackle and 3 assists, Covelli with a forced fumble, too.

In increasingly-impressive fashion, Mocha Torres continues to rack up Special Teams tackles, notching a solo and 2 assists on specials in this game. She is presently tied with Bruce for the team lead in this category.

Now sitting at 5-1, the Intensity prepares to square off with long-time rival and perennial powerhouse Montreal Blitz, who is presently undefeated (6-0). In fact, the only team to score on Montreal this season is New England (Montreal won the season-opener 20-11).

Boston Celtics AMAZING In Game 3!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-06T00:43:47-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

The Boston Celtics in game 3 was one of the most amazing TEAM performances I have seen from them since they clobbered the Heat in the regular season. Notice how I emphasized TEAM Performance there.

Game 3 in Miami was truly won by the team as a whole besides everyone on their bench besides Mickael Pietrus. Celtics won game 3 94-90 on a night when they were in Miami, the refs were against them and Lebron and D-Wade combined for 57 points.

K.G. was an absolute beast dropping 26 points with 11 rebounds and overpowered anything that got in his way. Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and Brandon Bass all scored in the double digits combing for 42 points, with Pierce hitting 19 of them. Rondo only finished the game with 7 points but was truly a team player on Tuesday night leading the team with 13 assists. The most underrated star, yet extremely important in this game was Mickael Pietrus who hit for 13 points off the bench.

This may have been the best team performance I have ever seen from this Celtics team all year and if they play like this throughout the rest of the playoffs, with the way Oklahoma City and San Antonio are beating up on each other, the Celtics have a legit shot to take home another championship in the final run of the Big 3 of 2k for the Green Teamers!

The Celtics are healthy and playing better than they should beware they are coming for you and not going away!

P.S. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH (That's the K.G. Scream Go Celtics!)

Also is it too late to take back when I said they would not even make the playoffs at the beginning of the season and if they do it would be a 7 or 8 seed and they would not go anywhere? Keep proving me wrong Celtics, I am loving this, you are one of the very few NBA teams I could actually root for in that awful, terrible league filled with corruption and cry baby, over-pampered athletes. Proud to say my Celtics are different than most NBA teams, they play hard and don't complain!

Is Daniel Bard done?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-06T00:23:17-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 marked perhaps the end of Daniel Bard's Major League pitching career as he went 1.2 innings giving up 5 earned runs and walked 6. This guy straight out fell apart and was then sent down to Pawtucket 2 days later by the Red Sox. First of all, moving him down to Pawtucket was an awful move, at least give him another shot in the bullpen, Bard was solid as a late inning reliever for about 3 years now and as I have continuously said THIS GUY IS NOT A STARTER, HE IS A CLOSER or LATE INNING RELIEVER.

I am now afraid that the Rick Ankiel affect may happen to Bard in which he loses all confidence and can never find the plate again, and he will be another 98 mph fastball hurler to work his way out of the big show because I am not sure if he qualifies as an outfielder. This demotion was way to harsh and I did not expect this to happen so fast, I expected at least a move down to the bullpen considering he has been decent on the mound before this past Sunday.

We discovered in Bard's starts that he is not a strike thrower and the problem is hitters have figured that out. Only 43% of Bard's pitches are making it over the strike zone and only 39% of his pitches have been swung for, these stats put him in the bottom 3 starters in the majors. This was never discovered when he was in relief because hitters did not see him enough and you can utilize your fastball more when your in the game for 1 or 2 innings compared to trying to go 5 or 6.

In the past 10 games for Bard
Innings Pitched - 6.2, 0.2 (in relief), 7.0, 5.1, 7.0, 6.0, 5.0, 5.1, 5.1, 1.2,
Earned Runs - 1,0,2,4,5,1,5,2,2,5
Walks - 7,1,1,2,4,4,5,4,2,6

If you look at the overall stats they are inconsistent but decent especially in the American League, but you can see the longest he can last is 5 innings and he typically in 5 innings will give up 4-5 runs, which means he is a 1-2 inning relief pitcher not a starter, and I hope they don't have him start in Pawtucket because a few shaky starts will lead to a complete loss of confidence and perhaps mark the end of Bard's pitching career.

Fail by whoever made this guy a starter and Bobby Valentine is exempt from this fail because I know it wasn't him!

T.O. changes agents!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-06T00:15:40-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

Terrell Owens has switched agents as he fired the well known Drew Rosenhaus who is arguably the number 1 agent in the NFL and brought in Dallas based Jordan Way.

Sorry T.O. I don't think the problem was your agent, the problem is you. You know how I know?.....It's because you are arguably one of the greatest physically shaped players I have ever seen and the Chicago Rush of the indoor football league does not even want you anymore because you are an absolute mess.

One thing I will say however is why doesn't an awful team like the Cleveland Browns or St. Louis Rams make an offer to T.O., how could T.O, possibly make a team like the Browns any worse, he may be a head case but it will arguably be the only player you have that will single handedly put butts in the seats and produce some kind of ticket sales for an awful team in the NFL. Also I could not imagine T.O. would not take any deal he can get no matter who it's from, if he is willing to sign with the Chicago Rush, he is willing to sign with the Cleveland Browns. This guy is desperate and he will take any gig he can get, but the Browns are stupid so don't count on this happening.

NFL Refs May Go On Strike

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-05T23:59:44-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

NFL Refs may go on strike, so the NFL has started employing replacement refs. NFL's latest proposal gives refs a minimum of $78,000 for rookies and a maximum of $139,000 for 10 year veteran refs for the year. This proposal was recently turned down by whatever greedy union represents refs. Now this may not be a lot of money compared to players but isn't this pretty fair since the refs only officiate 16-22 games max including preseason, season and post. Obviously this position is not going to pay like a player because you're not one but I will gladly take $75,000 at a bare minimum to officiate in the NFL. Considering the fact that the season is 6 months long and NFL refs work 4-5 days a week max, INCLUDING TRAVEL (and this is probably over estimating), the proposed deal sounds like a sweet deal to me. In fact I would argue that this is more than fair, considering that refs have the freedom to work additional jobs in the off season or even during the season. Even if they did not want to work for the off season, the refs are earning enough to continuously support their families and enjoy their lives.

One of the problems people have in general is they don't appreciate what they have and there's always a need for more! I can tell you from my own personal work experience that I work more hours and more days than NFL refs and my salary certainly does not show it. So NFL Refs union, shut up, take the deal and get to stand on the field with NFL players and call a football game and collect a salary in 6 months that most people don't even make in a year.

Also NFL if you need someone to ref your games, I will gladly do it for $50,000 a season and you know what, I will even call the games fairly even if I am calling a Patriots game.

#shutupandworkyouluckyspoiledbastards

P.S. If I was Roger Goodell I would fire all the refs I have now and higher new ones that appreciate this amazing opportunity!

Tim Thomas may be a no-show next year

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-02T22:15:14-04:00

By: Tom Nappi

Tim Thomas is seriously considering not playing next season which could leave the Bruins with 5.1 million dollars of cap space they can't use. Perhaps a trade is in the near future for the Bruins regarding Tim Thomas.

Tim Thomas is being very selfish as the Bruins were the only team to give him a legit shot and at the time overpaid him on his last contract extension and YES IT WORKED OUT as Tim played a key role in bringing home a Stanley Cup but the Bruins have treated Tim Thomas like gold and he has the nerve to cost them 5.1 mil in cap space because he is too much of a baby, to fight for his job. Tim Thomas has always been a "ME" kind of guy and this is just another example of Tim Thomas doing what Tim Thomas wants with no if's, and's or butts.

I have come up with a list of reasons why Tim Thomas may sit out next season:

1) Maybe he actually wants to be with his family like he claims, which if anyone is sick in his family, I take everything negative back I just said about him and commend him for being there for his loved ones and I will delete this article and post another one about how awesome and caring he is, but if it's just to be at home all the time that is pretty selfish unless there's circumstances which absolutely requires him to be home most of the time, then again I take back the negative stuff I said, but I doubt that is the case it's most likely just Tim doing what Tim wants with no regards for his team.

Play out the last year or so left on your contract, you owe it to your team after they gave you a chance and a nice pay day and who the hell would leave 5.1 million on the table, not even Josh Beckett would do that, he would at least fake an injury and play golf for a few games then come back and collect his paycheck!

2) The number 2 reason he may sit out is to make sure he does not get traded to some awful team like Columbus with the rise of Tukkarask, still this is selfish, if you weren't all about you the Bruins would probably let you retire in Bean-Town.

3) He want's a long term contract and this is his way of holding out until that happens, still this equals selfish without the Bruins you may not have ever been anything in the NHL, they made you!

4) He actually wants to be traded and the Bruins won't do it unless he does something drastic, in this case he should stay with the Bruins, shut up, take his 5.1 million and do what he can to make Tukka better and win the games he can because all he will do by not playing for a year is decrease his trade value!

5) A reason I did not really consider initially but do now is POLITICS. Let's not forget he moved his family to Colorado mid season in 2012 and Tim Thomas's allegedly real face book account which is supposedly controlled by him just made a post that pretty much says he is sitting out because of his fear of the future economy. If you click the link and read the article, it talks about an economy collapse, so if Tim sits out a year because of fear of the economy that is some radical stuff. Although I am not a fan of most of the current politicians in the White House, it does not mean I am going to sit out from my job and cost myself money! wait..... Tim, you fear the future of the economy but you are leaving 5.1 million dollars on the table.....ummmm yeah STUPID! Let's shut down MA Sports Web and lose all of our sponsor revenue because the economy might suck even more a few years down the road so I should stop working and earning money.....IDIOTIC if this is the case.

Tim Thomas on Facebook:

See why hockey's just not that important right now?

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/former-hedge-funders-fearful-forecast-were-looking-at-the-biggest-economic-shock-the-world-has-ever-seen-theres-nothing-we-can-do-to-stop-it/

I have no idea which scenario I posted is correct but one of them probably is, so as much as I respect Tim Thomas for exercising his 1st amendment rights, he needs to stop being idiotic and selfish, shut up and play with his teammates who have his back and most importantly use the last few years you have left to bring the cup back to Boston and repay one of the very few organizations that gave you a shot at success!

P.S. Bruins signings
Daniel Paille 3 year 3.9 million dollar deal.
Chris Bourque - 2 way 2 year contract, son of Ray Bourque. Pay variates depending on if he makes providence club or Boston

Love these signings!

High School Post Season Scores

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-06-02T22:13:54-04:00

In The Division 2 South First Round of the Post Season Dedham took down Holliston 2-1.

In Division 3 girls Central Play Blackstone Valley Tech took down Hopedale 6-2 and Uxbridge pounded Monty Tech 16-0.

Local Softball action today at 3pm Wachusett is at Milford in the Division 1 Central Quarterfinals.

Boys Tennis Division 1 Central action Tantasqua took down Milford 3-2, In Division 2 boys South Scituate took down Holliston 5-0 and Whitinsville Christian shut out Hopedale 5-0.

Girls Tennis Central first round action Milford shut out Tantasqua 5-0.

In The Boys Volleyball Central Semifinal Milford shut out Xaverian winning all 3 matches.

Local Lacrosse action today as in Boys action Medfield takes on Franklin at 2pm, BVT takes on Tyngsboro at 3pm, In Girls Lacrosse Franklin battles Natick at 4pm and Ashland takes on Hopkinton at 4pm as the Spring season post season continues.

New England Intensity win 4th Straight

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-05-23T21:04:05-04:00

New England Now 4-1, Wins 21-0 Versus the Northeastern Nitro
The New England Intensity won their 4th straight game of the 2012 season, defeating the Northeastern Nitro 21-0 Saturday night in Schenectady, NY. A gorgeous ride west to upstate New York along the bright green tree-lined Mass Pike with deep blue skies overhead and warm temps all around almost gave the feel of a vacation rather than a business trip. Fortunately, the Intensity got right down to business against the physical Nitro squad, scoring twice in the opening quarter—a TD pass from QB Rebecca Lopez to Lisa Vincent and a TD run from Vincent a few minutes later. Tricia Donovan ran in a 2 point attempt after a high snap precluded Lola Kantak from making a PAT try. Vincent averaged over 6 yards per carry and Nikia Speed averaged over 5 yards per carry (most of her yards coming after contact) in her first game back carrying the ball [after a lower limb injury earlier in the season]. Rookie Heather Eagleson bowled her way into the endzone in the 2nd quarter for her second TD in as many games to put NE up 21-0.

Lopez was a very efficient 8 for 15 with a TD and 3 first downs. Donovan, in impressive fashion, turned a short screen pass into a 32-yard gain on a 2nd and 30 play. She’d lead the team with 40 receiving yards. Lopez spread the ball around well, as 6 different receivers caught passes in this game. Seeing her first action throwing the ball this season, Rookie Christine Sampson linked up with Erica Adams on a 9 yard play late in the game, good for a first down. New England’s balanced offensive attack (nearly 50/50 in pass/run yardage) set them up to outgain their opponent in total yards yet again. The tough home squad did not quit, and actually gave the New England D a scare on a few occasions--especially on the ground. The Blue only allowed 41 passing yards on 21 attempts, but did give up 121 rushing yards and 7 first downs by way of the run.

Charlene Casey led the way for the Intensity again, tallying 13 tackle assists (good for the team lead in that category), she also had a solo tackle and a fumble recovery. Fellow mauler-in-the-middle, Kate Miechkowski collected 10 tackle assists, while Speed—playing in front of many fans (she lives in Rochester, NY) did not disappoint . . . she led the squad with 3 solo tackles, had 5 assists, a forced fumble and a pass defended. Erica Adams Vincent turned in 6-assist efforts, with Vincent notching 2 solo tackles, Adams one and two passes defended. Rounding out the top performers on D were Coco Edwards (6 tackle assists), Lisa Close (3 assists and a sack), Erin Diette (1 solo tackle, a forced fumble and half a sack), Brenna Leveille—who also averaged 38 yards per kickoff—(half a sack and 2 assists), Donna Bruce (3 assists, an interception and a fumble recovery), Andrea Covelli (1 solo, 3 assists) and Stacey DeLuca (1 solo, 2 assists and a pass defended). New England, along with most of the league, has the Memorial Day weekend off before their 4-game road trip continues—they’ll square off against the Southern Maine Rebels in Portland on 6/2/12.

Is now a good time to bring Will Middlebrooks Down?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-05-18T14:47:30-04:00

Article By: Craig D'Alessandro

Its been the big topic in town since he showed up in Boston and started raking the ball; will Kevin Youkilis be Wally Pipp’d by Will Middlebrooks. (I’ll wait while you look up the significance of Wally Pipp on Wikipedia.)

If you listen to any of the shows that I have partaken in over the years, you know doubt have hear me singing of the praises of Middlebrooks, saying “look out for this kid in a couple years, he’s going to tear the cover off the ball” and look what happened this year, in the minors he did exactly that at Pawtucket, hitting .333, 9 home runs, 27 RBI’s and a OPS 1.057, obviously deserving of a shot to show his potential in the majors. The problem at the time was the Red Sox already had a franchise starter over at third and Kevin Youkilis, and when he was healthy, there was no way, knowing this organization the way I do, that they were going to start a kid down in AAA, regardless if he was the next big thing or not, over a long time starter, and yes, it’s a money thing.

But the stars seemed to align perfectly a few weeks ago when Youk’s back started to act up…again…and was placed on the 15 day DL. It was perfect, a star player goes down, and you bring up the hot prospect in the middle of his hot streak, and it ended up paying off immediately. There's no doubt that Will Middlebrooks started his major league career about as good as we would've liked to see. By adding him into the then-struggling Boston lineup, the Red Sox started to produce more runs and win more games. There in lies the problem though that we all do whether we like it or not, we see a star replacement come in over an injured player, and immediately question the future standing of the player he is replacing.

Think back to two years ago, when Daniel Nava was called up because the Red Sox were crippled with injuries all over the team, he hit a grand slam on the first pitch he saw in the majors, and everyone expected him to become the next Babe Ruth, and what happened? He cooled off tremendously and the starters got their jobs back, in fact, the last time he saw the majors is his current tour of duty, in which he is just as on fire as when he first came up.

And now look at our situation with Will Middlebrooks, his early surge allowed many to discuss the future of Kevin Youkilis in a Boston uniform and whether he'd have a job once he came off of the disabled list. I, for one, thought that trading away Youkilis was Boston's best option since Middlebrooks had been so hot.

The problem is I live in reality-ville and that is not a realistic achievement at this moment in time. The problem is Kevin Youkilis doesn't have ANY trade value at the moment, since he's been injured and didn't play well at all while he was healthy. The other problem is now Will Middlebrooks has cooled off mightily since his hot start and might need some time back in Triple-A Pawtucket.

Would it really be the worst thing if they optioned him back and allowed Youkilis to get some time?
Two weeks ago: Most fans would come after you with pitchforks and torches

Now: Probably the better idea.

In Middlebrooks' first 12 games of his career, he was hitting .300/.340/.640 with five doubles, four home runs and 14 RBI. Now, the bad thing is it seems as if he's starting to lose his touch and maybe his confidence at the plate, and other teams are starting to get a book on Middlebrooks and learn his approach to the plate. In his last six games, he's hitting under .200 and has struck out 12 times in 23 at-bats. That doesn't look good any way you try to put it.

The Red Sox are going to have to give Youkilis some time if they plan on dealing him before the trade deadline, which definitely is a possibility. Give him a couple weeks in order to reestablish his trade value and hopefully a decent deal lands on Ben Cherington's desk. Ideal trade scenarios would involve any of : The Diamondbacks, the Orioles, though I doubt that one, the Dodgers need a corner infeilder, the best fit as of right now, The Phillies, however, don’t rule out the possibility of a return to his hometown of Cincinnati .

This way, Boston can pickup some help, probably in the bullpen and they can still get the most out of their future third baseman.

Kevin Youkilis is currently doing rehab assignments in Triple-A Pawtucket, and a decision is going to have to be made rapidly.

What will Boston decide to do with the duo of Kevin Youkilis and Will Middlebrooks?

Thankfully, that’s not my decision to make.

MLB Power Rankings Month 2

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-05-04T01:58:42-04:00

Craig D’Alessandro’s MLB Power Rankings
Month 2: May

Well one month is in the books Ladies and Gents, and what an exciting first month of baseball it was!

What is this, Opposite season?
You take a look at those standings from every division and you have to say “Wow.” There really isn’t any one division that is turning out the way we thought it would. Teams that should be doing excellent (Angels, Red Sox, San Francisco, Detroit and Miami) are struggling out of the gate and teams that should be on the bottom (Cleveland, Atlanta, Oakland, and Baltimore) are really having very good seasons to start! It is just the first month, and we usually see things like this, but that will be a interesting storyline going forward.

The Future of Tomorrow, TODAY!
We are barley a month into the season and with the aforementioned teams ( LA, WAS, and BOS) struggling out of the gate (ok not Washington, but they were getting nothing out of their left field position) we are seeing a lot of the top prospects in MLB getting the call up to the Majors to try and make an impact. The Angels have had nothing going on , and with the MAJOR disappointment Albert Pujols has been, the Angels released Bobby Abreu and called up Top Prospect Mike Trout, while he hasn’t made a great impact yet, its only a matter of time before he is raking the ball.
The Washington Nationals are actually off to one of the best starts in baseball, but they had a luxury of needing only to upgrade one spot, and luckily for them, the spot that needed upgrading could be filled by their 19 year old phenom Bryce Harper, and he has been as advertised so far, I have really high hopes for this kid.
Finally we have our hometown Boston Red Sox, with Kevin Youkilis having an injured back, and the Red Sox offence needing a boast, the Red Sox have called up top Prospect Will Middlebrooks, who had a very good first game for the Red Sox, going 2-3 with a double, and even stealing a base. If you’re a fan of the show, and you should be, you know I am not a very big fan of mister Youk, so I am really rooting for Mr. Middlebrooks here.

The Year of the Pitcher
Last year, there were 3 no hitters/perfect games in the MLB. This year we already have two; WE’RE NOT EVEN 20% INTO THE SEASON YET! And this is not a surprising Item, offence is down throughout the league, except if your name is Matt Kemp, so would it really surprise me to see a few more no hitters this season? Heck no! I love this!

So without further Adie, your MSEN MLB Power Rankings:

No. 30: Minnesota Twins (Previous: 27)
Josh Willingham (.353 BA, 5 HR, 15 RBI) remains the team's offensive leader, while Joe Mauer (.325 BA, 1 HR, 13 RBI) continues to show he is finally healthy. However, they may have the worst pitching staff in baseball, and that will continue to keep them near the bottom of the rankings. Maybe the Metro dome would help them out…ohh wait…

No. 29: Kansas City Royals (Previous: 18)
Two losses to open the week pushed the Royals' losing streak to 12 games, but they rallied to take the final two games of their series with the Indians before splitting two games with the Twins for a modest 3-3 week. However, they are still 0-10 at home on the season. Which is really to bad, since the Royals have one of the best Parks in baseball.
Alex Gordon (.232 BA, 4 HR, 10 RBI) has begun to turn things around after moving out of the leadoff spot, and if Eric Hosmer (.188 BA, 5 HR, 13 RBI) could follow suit it would go a long way towards helping the team find some consistency.

No. 28: San Diego Padres (Previous: 21)
The Padres had a tough draw this week, facing the Nationals and Giants. They managed to win one game in each series for a 2-4 week.
Their pitching is starting to come around, and their bullpen has been terrific, but that doesn't mean much when they are not scoring runs. Carlos Quinton should soon be making some rehab assignment, and if he’s healthy he can be a force at the plate, Chris Denorfia (team-high .282 average) has moved into a starting spot in left field, but it's going to take a lot more than that for the Padres to turn things around.

No. 27: Houston Astros ( Previous: 30)
The offense has been solid, led by Jose Altuve (.373 BA) and J.D. Martinez (19 RBI), but the team desperately needs someone in the rotation to step up alongside Wandy Rodriguez (2-2, 1.72 ERA). But still…

No. 26: Miami Marlins (Previous: 11)
So far, the team has been perhaps the biggest disappointment in all of baseball, and it starts with their superstars as Jose Reyes and Hanley Ramirez are both hitting .205, while Josh Johnson sports a 5.34 ERA. Ugly, ugly start for the Fish, pull it together Boys!

No. 25: Chicago Cubs (Previous: 26)
The Cubs are in the midst of their best stretch of the season thus far, as they took two of three from the rival Cardinals before completing a 4-2 week with a victory over the Phillies on Sunday.Tony Campana (.435 BA, 6 SB, 6 R) has provided a spark taking over in center field for the departed Marlon Byrd. The starting rotation has also impressed, with Matt Garza throwing seven innings of one-hit ball to cap the week.

No. 24: Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 23)
The Pirates it seems can’t score a run to save their lives, dead last in the MLB but their pitching has been very impressive so far, ranking third in all of baseball.

No. 23: Oakland Athletics (Previous: 28)
The A's have struggled to find any consistency so far this season. They took two of three from the White Sox before dropping two of three to the Orioles over the weekend.
Despite having the worst team batting average in all of baseball at .205, the A's have managed to stay competitive thanks to their pitching staff. Recent call-up Jarrod Parker (6.1 IP, 1 ER, 5 Ks) could make the rotation even better after looking strong in his first start. Now they just need to find someone who can hit the ball.

No. 22: Colorado Rockies (Previous: 22)
A 2-4 week saw the Rockies drop two of three to both the Pirates and the Mets, although they did explode for 18 runs on Friday.
They acquired a good deal of starting pitching depth in the offseason, and they are already dipping into it as former A's starter Guillermo Moscoso was called up with Jeremy Guthrie on the disabled list. The rotation has undoubtedly been their weakness to this point, with just one starter (Jamie Moyer, 3.14) with an ERA under 4.00

.No. 21: Los Angeles Angels (Previous: 4)
After giving them the benefit of the doubt through the first three weeks of the season, a 1-5 week and the third-worst record in the American League simply can't be overlooked. The Angels were swept by the Rays and dropped two of three to the Indians before eking out a 2-1 win on Saturday.
The call-up of uber-prospect Mike Trout, who was hitting .403 in Triple-A, could be the spark the team needs to get things going. A hot streak by Albert Pujols (.216 BA, 0 HR, 4 RBI) certainly wouldn't hurt either.

No. 20: Seattle Mariners (Previous: 24)
The Mariners swept the Tigers in Detroit to open the week before dropping two of three to the Blue Jays at home, but they have to be happy with a 4-2 week against two of the league's top teams.
They tallied 30 runs in their four wins and just two in their two losses, a sign of how their season will go as they have the pitching to compete but will only be as good as their offense allows them.

No. 19: Chicago White Sox (Previous: 20)
The White Sox have been better than expected, led by Paul Konerko (.383 BA, 5 HR, 15 RBI) and Jake Peavy (3-1, 1.67 ERA), and their solid start could be enough to delay what was expected to be a full-blown rebuilding season.

No. 18: Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 9)
There is little doubt that the team misses Prince Fielder's bat, and the struggles of Rickie Weeks (.193 BA) and Aramis Ramirez (.228 BA) have only magnified the loss. Their pitching staff may be a bigger concern though, as Randy Wolf (7.17 ERA) and Yovani Gallardo (6.08 ERA) have struggled mightily.

No. 17: Cleveland Indians (Previous: 19)
The starting pitching has been hit-or-miss, and the offense has no true standout player at this point, but they continue to win games and in what looks to be a wide-open AL Central.
No. 16: Philadelphia Phillies (Previous: 6)
The unexpected trio of Carlos Ruiz, Juan Pierre and Ty Wigginton are the only three everyday players with respectable averages, and Kyle Kendrick has struggled filling in for an injured Cliff Lee. All-in-all, things just don't look great in Philly right now.

No. 15: Cincinnati Reds (11-11, Previous: 15)
The Reds moved to second in the NL Central with a 4-2 week, as they captured two of three from both the Giants and Astros. Jay Bruce (.296 BA, 7 HR, 17 RBI) is on fire right now, as the highly touted offense is finally performing up to expectations. If the notoriously slow-starting Mat Latos (5.97 ERA) can start pitching like an ace, Cincinnati will be in pretty good shape.

No. 14: Boston Red Sox (Previous: 10)
Led by David Ortiz (.395 BA, 4 HR, 18 RBI), their offense has been solid despite a slow start from Kevin Youkilis and the absence of Carl Crawford and Jacoby Ellsbury. Their pitching continues to be a question mark, but as long as they continue to post double-digit run totals like they did three times last week, they will win games. The recent cold spurt against the A’s concern me though, this team is so hit or miss

No. 13: Arizona Diamondbacks (Previous: 13)
The team finally had enough of Josh Collmenter's struggles (9.82 ERA), moving him to the bullpen and calling up touted prospect Patrick Corbin (1.67 ERA, 27 IP at Double-A) to make his big league debut. As long as they can consistently score runs, they should be able to find a rotation that works with perhaps the youngest starting pitching depth in baseball.

No. 12: San Francisco Giants (Previous: 7)
Buster Posey (.353 BA, 4 HR, 9 RBI) has bounced back from his injury last season, but the offense is still struggling to score runs. The biggest stat of the week for the Giants, though, was Tim Lincecum's eight-inning, zero-run outing.

No. 11: New York Mets (Previous: 25)
New York be getting center fielder Andres Torres back from injury on Monday, shifting rookie Kirk Nieuwenhuis to left field which should improve the lineup moving forward. As long as their pitching staff keeps performing like they have, the Mets are on track to do much better than expected.

No. 10: Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 16)
Edwin Encarnacion (.310 BA, 7 HR, 20 RBI) is 5-for-9 with three home runs and seven RBI in his last three games, and he's been moved to the cleanup spot in hopes of better protecting Jose Bautista. The real story, though, has been the team's starting pitching, as four of their five starters have ERAs under 4.00.

No. 9: Detroit Tigers (Previous: 1)
they released long-time Tiger Brandon Inge and lost Delmon Young indefinitely after he was arrested and charged with hate crime harassment. They will look to get things back on track against the Royals and White Sox this coming week, and still have to be considered among the AL favorites despite these hiccups.

No. 8: New York Yankees (Previous: 2)
They drop on this list due to the news that Michael Pineda is done for the year with a shoulder injury. With Phil Hughes (7.88 ERA) and Ivan Nova (5.18 ERA) struggling and Freddy Garcia (12.51 ERA) moved to the bullpen in favor of untested David Phelps, the rotation is once again a huge question mark.

No. 7: Baltimore Orioles (Previous: 29)
Well…quite a jump here, huh? With an offense that ranks 10th in runs scored and a pitching staff that ranks seventh in ERA, the O's are doing everything well right now. Five players have double-digit RBI, and J.J. Hardy (.181 BA) and Nick Markakis (.244 BA) are not among them. Once those two get going, the Orioles could be even better.

No. 6: Washington Nationals (Previous: 8)
I am still very much a believer in the Nats, as their pitching (2.33 team ERA) is going to keep them in most games. The call-up of Bryce Harper should allow them to get some much deserved national attention, and also gives them a boost not many teams can find from their farm system.

No. 5: Atlanta Braves (Previous: 14)
The team pulled a shocker of sorts when they sent 2011 All-Star Jair Jurrjens (9.37 ERA) down to Triple-A, but the move corresponded with Tim Hudson coming off the disabled list so Atlanta should be fine in the short-term.
The Braves are off to a good start, but there is a ton of room for improvement across the board.

No. 4: Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 17)
The offense has consisted almost exclusively of Matt Kemp (.425 BA, 11 HR, 24 RBI) and Andre Ethier (.277 BA, 5 HR, 24 RBI), and the rest of the team needs to start hitting around them. Also of note, Ted Lilly is very quietly 2-0 with a 0.90 ERA through three starts.

No. 3: St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 12)
Outside of Adam Wainwright (7.32 ERA), the starting pitching has been phenomenal. At the plate, World Series MVP David Freese (.333 BA, 5 HR, 20 RBI) continues to carry an offense that has gotten consistent contribution up and down the lineup.

No. 2: Tampa Bay Rays (Previous: 5)
there is a lot to like about the Rays, from a deep offense that is light years better than last season to their immensely talented pitching staff. They could certainly challenge the Rangers for the top spot in the near future.

No. 1: Texas Rangers (Previous: 3)
Josh Hamilton (.395 BA, 9 HR, 25 RBI) continues to be the AL version of Matt Kemp, while the rest of the offense is doing its part with five players tallying double-digit RBI. The Rays showed that the Rangers are human, but there is still little question that Texas sports the best team in baseball right now.

Patriots Draft

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-05-05T01:43:49-04:00

Meet The New Faces of The New England Patriots From The 2012 Draft!

The 2012 NFL Draft is in the books, and I have to say this was one of the more exciting drafts in recent memory. So many trades made, so many players being drafted to Teams where I didn’t think they would be fits. Players that should have gone early going late and players going late that should have been early.

But as far as the Patriots go, the work has just begun for the New England Patriots' seven draft selections. For them, the arduous journey will continue through rookie mini camp, training camp and preseason games. If everything goes well, these Patriot greenhorns will stick around. If not, then roster cut-down days may be the last time you ever hear of them.

Head coach Bill Belichick saw something in Chandler Jones, Dont'a Hightower, Tavon Wilson, Jake Bequette, Nate Ebner, Alfonzo Dennard and Jeremy Ebert. But the jury is still out when it comes to their immediate impact. The burning question is: How will these players fit into New England's system next season?

Round 1, Pick 21: Chandler Jones, Defensive End, Syracuse

Chandler Jones is a beast of an athlete, who stands at 6’5” 265Lbs.
He has a massive wingspan of 35.5” inch arms much like his brother Arthur and Jon “Bones” Jones.

When Jones fully devolves, we are looking at possible the Patriots version of Jason Peierre-Paul, he will be able to bat down passes from the line of scrimage, evade blockers, and wrap up NFL quarterbacks.

As the Patriots first choice in the 2012 NFL draft, the former Orangeman's pass rushing prowess gives him a leg up on the competition. Director of player personnel Nick Caserio and coach Bill Belichick made an effort to bolster the defense this offseason, and Jones figures into that mix.

2012 Outlook
Look for Jones to make a run at one of the starting defensive end spots in 2012. In the worst-case scenario, the Patriots' top pick is a third-down specialist during his first season in the system.

I would project Jones to fit into the “Elephant” role with the Patriots, Jones is the prototype for the 'elephant' position that was made famous in these parts by Willie McGinest, The position made a comeback last season when Andre Carter and then Mark Anderson filled the role.

Alabama's Dont'a Hightower provided the Patriots with great value at pick 25. He's a run stopper and a pass rusher, all in one.

The 6'2", 265-pound athlete can play any linebacker position in a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. Based on the flexibility of players like Julian Edelman, Matthew Slater and others, versatility is music to Bill Belichick's ears.

With inside linebackers Jerod Mayo and Brandon Spikes coming into the prime of their careers, Hightower will likely set up shop at one of the outside linebacker spots. In a 3-4 front seven, Rob Ninkovich could use some help at the opposing outside linebacker position. In a 4-3 scheme, however, the Crimson Tide product could be nipping at Ninkovich's heels on the depth chart.

2012 Outlook
Look for Hightower to make an immediate impact with the Patriots this season. His playing time may come at the expense of Ninkovich, but his role also relies upon New England's defensive formation. I believe the Patriots picked the Next Ray Lewis in Hightower and I expect huge things from him.

Round 2, Pick 48: Tavon Wilson, Safety, Illinois

With the Patriots' second-round selection, they drafted a head-scratcher: Tavon Wilson.

I really and truly believe that Wilson would have been available later in the Draft, maybe even undrafted, although there were rumblings that the Chargers on the very next pick.

Nonetheless, the Patriots' front office chose the Illinois defensive back because they were interested in his talents. He's a feisty defender in both pass and run situations. Wilson's multi-faceted game is why he went in the second round. At 6'0", 205 pounds, Wilson is built to play safety. However, he's also got good burst, running a 4.52 40-yard dash.

I think that of the positions that he will see this season, maybe occasional Saftey play, but I expect him to contribute a lot on special teams.

2012 Outlook
During his first professional season, Tavon Wilson will fit into New England's defensive backfield as a backup safety and special teamer. He's not flashy, but he will fight to stay on the field no matter if it's first down or fourth down.

Round 3, Pick 90: Jake Bequette, Defensive End, Arkansas

Arkansas' fifth-year senior Jake Bequette has been compared to Mike Vrabel, That said, the 6'5", 274-pound pass rusher also has the size to line up at defensive end in the NFL.

Bequette knows how to put pressure up on the quarterback, registering 10 sacks in 2011 for the Arkansas Razorbacks. With the athleticism to play as stand-up pass rusher in sub packages, and the girth to put his hand in the dirt, Bequette will find his niche as a rookie.

2012 Outlook
Bequette has the potential to fight for a starting gig, but that appears unlikely to happen as a rookie with the acquisitions of Trevor Scott and Jonathan Fanene. Anticipate the stout pass rusher to work primarily as a backup defensive end and situational outside linebacker on blitzes. But a strong off-season and training camp could net him a starting job, possibly opposite Jones

Round 6, Pick 197: Nate Ebner, Safety, Ohio State

In the sixth round, the Patriots went for a special teams ace Nate Ebner.

Youtube “Nate Ebner Ohio State 7’s” Watch that video then imagine that man going after the kick returnee on special teams.

Ebner was named Most Valuable Player of the Rugby World Cup in both 2007 and 2008. The Ohio State prospect did not play a lick of football in high school. But his proficiency as a rugby player helped him excel as a Buckeyes special teamer, collecting 30 career tackles.

At 6'0" and 205 pounds, Ebner is built like a rock. However, he also has proven to fly like a rocket down, running a 4.47 40-time and leaping for a 39-inch vertical at Ohio State's Pro Day.

2012 Outlook
Nate Ebner plays with heart and is perfect for special teams duty. If he makes the Patriots 53-man roster, he will jump right into the special teams fold. He could very well become a Foxboro favorite, just like Larry Izzo is still admired for his special teams play.

Round 7, Pick 224: Alfonzo Dennard, Cornerback, Nebraska

Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard had first-round talent, but allegedly punched a police officer days before the draft. Consequently, the Patriots took a low-risk, high-reward shot on the Cornhusker cornerback in the seventh round.

Comfortable in a variety of positions, the 5'10", 205-pound defensive back has a chance to prove his doubters wrong. I feel that Dennard is best in zone coverage and must overcome a poor showing at the Senior Bowl.

2012 Outlook
Alfonzo Dennard's role on the Patriots depends on the success of young cornerbacks Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington, Ras-I Dowling and Sterling Moore. If the aforementioned struggle, Dennard might be thrust into action. Yet if these corners play well, then Dennard won't make much of a difference early on. He has the potential to be a starting-caliber corner in the NFL, but must mature and learn the defense first. Dennard will see the field in nickle or dime packages, yet time will tell if the risk is worth the reward.

Round 7, Pick 235: Jeremy Ebert, Wide Receiver, Northwestern

New England finally went offense with their final draft pick. Northwestern wide-out Jeremy Ebert is just 5'10", but he's nifty in space and ran a 4.41 40-yard dash at his Pro Day.

Experienced as a slot receiver, Ebert joins the mold of both Edelman and Wes Welker. Yet his chances of making the 53-man roster look slim.

2012 Outlook
It's a numbers game, and Jeremy Ebert is simply on the wrong side of the depth chart at this point in time. Odds are, Ebert is cut at the end of the preseason. However, a shifty slot receiver with special teams expertise could land on the practice squad and his speed might make him a return man.

New England Intensity 2 and 1 to start the season

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-05-01T01:09:23-04:00

New England Overcomes Mistakes to Defeat New Hampshire

The New England Intensity tallied their 2nd win of
the 2012 season Saturday afternoon over long-time
rival New Hampshire Freedom with a 4th quarter
touchdown run by Lisa Vincent (and a subsequent
2 point pass completion to Donna Bruce from
Tricia Donovan). Bruce caught a TD pass from QB
Rebecca Lopez in the 2nd for the Intensity’s first
score.

The Blue offense, behind very effective O Line pass-
and run-blocking, moved the ball very well all game
(discounting a negative 28 yard run due to a bad snap
on a punt play, New England passed for 152 yards
and ran for 150). Vincent notched another 100+
yard day running the ball, while Erica Adams, Bruce
and Heather Eagleson all contributed positively in
the run game. Lopez spread the ball around well as
7 different players hauled in passes (Tricia Donovan
leading the way with 4 catches for 55 yards and two
first downs).

Mental errors derailed what was otherwise a decent
effort with the ball for the Intensity—an interception,
5 fumbles (losing two of them), and a couple of
untimely drive-killing penalties.

Despite these errors, the home team’s defense kept
the Freedom from taking full advantage of these
miscues and pulling away. In fact, aside from
gaining almost 40 yards on their opening drive, and
a 41 yard pass play that set up their lone score in
the 2nd quarter, New Hampshire had little success
moving the ball—finishing the day with roughly
half the total yards of their hosts at Medway High
School’s Hanlon Field, and only averaging 2.3 yards
per carry.

Battling the flu, LB Kate Miechkowski would still
log a phenomenal game, leading the team with 6 solo
tackles and 7.5 total tackles. Fellow LBs Charlene
Casey (2 solo and 10 tackle assists) and Lisa Vincent
(1 and 7, with a pass defended) were key parts to
the defensive effort. The D line, anchored by Bri
Giarrusso (8 solo tackles), Aimee Gauvin (5 tackle
assists) and Jennifer “Coco” Edwards (2 and 4) did
well against the run.

Head Coach John Johnson and his staff came away
from the game pleased to get the hard-fought win
against the tough New Hampshire squad but with
a laundry list of things to work on in the ensuing
two weeks (New England has a bye on 5/5 before
traveling to Manchester on 5/12 for the 2nd half of the
home-and-home with the Freedom).

More Sports News April!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-27T10:18:00-04:00

NEW ENGLAND INTENSITY WOMEN'S TACKLE FOOTBALL IS LIVE SATURDAY APRIL 28th at 4:00PM ON MA SPORTS WEB.COM

Other draft News Boston College Inside Line-Backer Luke Kuechly went to the Carolina Panthers with the 9th overall pick.

Last night on WMRC you heard The Boston Red Sox took on the Chicago White Sox in game 2 of the Series. The Red Sox rolling on a 4 game winning streak heading into last night send Daniel Bard to the Hill to face John Danks. Well the result was just super for the Sox as they get the 10-3 victory, their 5th win in a row. Daniel Bard went 7 innings pitched, gave up 2 earned runs. Ortiz belted his 4th homer of the year and Darnell Mcdonald had 4 RBI's. The Sox scored 6 runs on the top of the 6th last night.

The Red Sox take on the Chicago White Sox in game 3 of the series in Chicago tonight, Jon lester to the Hill for the Red Sox, Jake Peavy for the White Sox game time is 7pm, coverage starts at 6 pm right here on wmrc first class radio.

Yankees last night won the game against the Tigers in the bottom of the 9th on a passed ball. Derek Jeter came around to score in the bottom of 9th after a skipped pitch. Mariano Rivera got the win for the Yanks. The Yankees play at 4:05pm today against the Detroit Tigers, Tigers Rookie Drew Smyly matches up against Freddy Garcia for the Yankees.

The Bruins may be done for the season but the Celtics will get started up Sunday against the Atlanta Hawks right here on WMRC, 1490 am, Coverage starts at 6pm for Celtics playoff basketball as they battle the Hawks in game 1 in Atlanta.

Thursday Night Milford High Baseball Branched out as J.J. Branch took the mound and took down Algonquin 10-6. 4 of the runs were earned. Jarrod and Chriss Casey as well as Matt Ferelli all contributed hits in the Milford victory. The Scarlet Hawks after Thursday are 6 and 1 on the season.

On Friday a different story Milford Gets shut out against Shrewsbury 3-0 but the Milford Softball team shut out Shrewsbury 8-0, Caroline Fairbanks ripped a 3 run homer in the Milford victory.

Other Baseball scores from around the Area, Franklin Panthers shut out division rivals Mansfield 8-0, In Tri-Valley Play Hopkinton took down Medway 6-2, Millis wiped out Ashland 9-6, Medfield beat up on Bellingham 14-1 and in Non-League Play Hopedale took down Worcester North 16-0.

Other Local Softball Scores, Mansfield shut out Franklin 3-0, Bellingham shut out Medfield 4-0, Ashland took down Millis 13-2, Hopkington over Medway 4-2.

This has been Tom Nappi With your Sports Sting keep it locked WMRC 1490am Milford and Wmrc Daily News.com every saturday 10am-noon to hear more extremely exceptional sports talk.

Patriots Draft Results are GREAT!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-27T22:37:05-04:00

The Mayans were right 2013 it's the end of the world, Why you ask.... because the Patriots actually traded up in the draft, pretty sure the mayans said that would be the determining factor a kabillion years ago. The Patriots traded up from the 27th to the 21st spot with the Bengals and gave up a 3rd round pick. DE Chandler Jones is out of Syracuse to make this deal even more sweeter for the orange heads. Chandler Jones also has the reputation of being a tremendous trash talker and physical player, if he is anything like his brother (UFC Champion Jon Bones Jones) he will destroy people on the field.

Then to confirm the end of the world is close, the Patriots traded up again to move up to the 25th pick in the 1st round from the 31st and gave up a 4th round pick to the Broncos and they took Inside Line Backer Donta Hightower out of Alabama. Hightower is extremely athletic, can run a 40 in 4.62 seconds and was filthy with the Crimson.

On Day 2 of the draft the Patriots had 2 2nd round picks and used 1 of them to pick up Free Safety Tavon Wilson out of Illinois. He is 6 feet tall 205 pounds and has a ton of versatility.

Since the Patriots traded up for their 2 first round picks, they traded down on their second, 2nd round pick and picked up a 3rd and 5th round draft pick.... This is fine at least they finally traded up for once, I could never criticize this draft.

Oh wait Pats night did not stop there with the 90th overall pick in the draft the Patriots took Arkansas defensive End Jake Bequette who is a 6'5 271 pounder and has major versatility and can play end in the 4-3.

Belichick likes his versatility, he got his versatility! Utilizing his top picks this year I will be shocked if this draft does not pay off big time.

Patriots are 6 for 8 with successful 1st and 2nd round draft picks and only 4 for 23 with successful later round picks in the past 4 years.

The 2012 New England Patriots Football Schedule has been announced!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-17T21:48:16-04:00

2012 PATRIOTS PRESEASON SCHEDULE

Date.........................Opponent..............................Time....................TV Coverage
Thurs., Aug. 9.........New Orleans Saints..............7:30 p.m. ET.......Patriots Preseason Network
Mon., Aug. 20..........Philadelphia Eagles..............8:00 p.m. ET.......ESPN (Nationally Televised)
Fri., Aug. 24............at Tampa Bay Buccaneers.....7:30 p.m. ET.......Patriots Preseason Network
Wed., Aug. 29..........at New York Giants...............7:30 p.m. ET.......Patriots Preseason Network

2012 PATRIOTS REGULAR SEASON

Date............................Opponent....................Time.........................Affiliate
.........Network
Sunday, Sept. 9..........at Tennessee.................1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ...............CBS
Sunday, Sept. 16........Arizona...........................1:00 p.m. ET........WFXT..............FOX
Sunday, Sept. 23........at Baltimore...................8:20 p.m. ET........WHDH............NBC
Sunday, Sept. 30........at Buffalo........................1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ...............CBS
Sunday, Oct. 7............Denver.............................4:15 p.m. ET.......WBZ...............CBS
Sunday, Oct. 14.........at Seattle........................4:05 p.m. ET........WBZ...............CBS
Sunday, Oct. 21..........New York Jets................4:15 p.m. ET........WBZ...............CBS
Sunday, Oct. 28.........at St. Louis (London)......1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ...............CBS
Sunday, Nov. 4............BYE WEEK
Sunday, Nov. 11..........Buffalo.............................1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ..............CBS
Sunday, Nov. 18..........Indianapolis....................1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ..............CBS*
Thursday, Nov. 22.......at New York Jets.............8:20 p.m. ET.......WHDH...........NBC
Sunday, Dec. 2.............at Miami..........................1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ.............CBS*
Monday, Dec. 10..........Houston..........................8:30 p.m. ET........WCVB...........ESPN
Sunday, Dec. 16...........San Francisco................8:20 p.m. ET........WHDH...........NBC*
Sunday, Dec. 23...........at Jacksonville...............1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ..............CBS*
Sunday, Dec. 30...........Miami..............................1:00 p.m. ET........WBZ..............CBS*

Patriots meet up with the Jets on Thanksgiving this year!

New England Intensity Wrecks the Wreckers

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-17T14:15:05-04:00

New England Wins Big Versus Connecticut!

The New England Intensity returned to their winning ways last Saturday, soundly defeating the visiting Connecticut Wreckers 36-0 at Hanlon Field in Medway, Massachusetts. The win evens up the Intensity 2012 record at 1-1 and puts them back on track for their season goals.

Behind a solid effort by the Offensive Line, New England rushed for over 250 yards and 4 TDs (by 4 different players, with Lisa Vincent leading the way tallying 167 rushing yards on 9 carries, one of which a 59 yard TD scamper on the Intensity’s first play). Over 100 yards were gained in the air as QB Rebecca Lopez went 7 for 9, including a 55 yard TD bomb to Donna Bruce. No NE QB suffered a sack in this game as well—kudos to the O Line, again!

The Defense was characteristically stingy, surrendering only 63 total yards (6 yards on just one completion, 57 yards on the ground) and two total first downs in the shut-out effort. Vincent had two sacks and Charlene Casey led the team in tackles with 4 solo and 3 assists.

On Special Teams, Rookie Michelle Torres had two solo tackles, Brenna Leveille had a 55 yard kickoff, Tricia Donovan averaged 16.0 yards per punt return (she had three in the game), and Lola Kantak hit her second FG of the season and went 2 for 2 on extra point attempts.

Head Coach Johnny Johnson and the rest of the staff liked what they had seen from some of the rookies, notably Christine Sampson (who ran for one of the team four rushing TDs and returned an interception 43 yards) and Heather Eagleson (who churned out several tough runs late in the game when the whole world knew that New England would be running the ball).

That said, New England will have it’s work cut out for itself over the next two weeks (this Saturday upcoming is a bye week for the Intensity) as they prepare to host archrival New Hampshire Freedom on 4/28/12 at Medway High School—another 4pm kickoff. Back to basics is the theme the coaching staff will be driving home to the players in the upcoming practices, we will see how well it is received come the 28th!

The Current MLB Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-12T13:12:57-04:00

ERIC’S MLB POWER RANKINGS
(Power Rankings are based on the Current MLB Standings)

1. Detroit Tigers

2. St. Louis Cardinals

3. Philadelphia Phillies

4. Tampa Bay Rays

5. Texas Rangers

6. New York Mets

7. Arizona Diamondbacks

8. New York Yankees

9. Chicago White Sox

10. LA Dodgers

11. Baltimore Orioles

12. Milwaukee Brewers

13. Toronto Blue Jays

14. Kansas City Royals

15. Seattle Mariners

16. Houston Astros

17. San Diego Padres

18. Washington Nationals

19. Boston Red Sox

20. Oakland Athletics

21. Miami Marlins

22. Colorado Rockies

23. Chicago Cubs

24. San Francisco Giants

25. Pittsburg Pirates

26. Cincinnati Reds

27. Atlanta Braves

28. Cleveland Indians

29. LA Angels

30. Minnesota Twins

Eric's Playoff Prediction

DIVISION WINNERS:

AL
Tampa Bay Rays
Detroit Tigers
Texas Rangers

NL
Philadelphia Phillies
St. Louis Cardinals
Colorado Rockies

WILDCARD:

New York Yankees
Milwaukee Brewers

WORLD SERIES:

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Tampa Bay wins.

New England Intensity Update

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-12T03:07:59-04:00

The 2011 Independent Women's Football League (IWFL) Eastern Conference Champion New England Intensity opened their 2012 season this past Saturday, 4/7/12, at Hanlon Field (Medway, Massachusetts), where they have played home games for 7 consecutive years.

The Intensity hosted the Montreal Blitz (2008 and 2010 Champions and 2009 runners-up), who has had New England's number of late (defeating the Intensity 53-14 in 2010 in the first round of the playoffs and 30-0 in Medway last season).

New England, having made numerous roster and staff upgrades and coming off of the most productive and ambitious off-season they have ever conducted, was not about to get drummed again! Despite several miscues that included surrendering a kickoff returned for a touchdown and 7 turnovers on offense, the Intensity, due largely to stalwart defense, was very much in this game. In fact, the score was 14-11 for the better part of the 4th quarter before an untimely "pick six" by the visiting squad with less than a minute remaining closed the door on this match.

Head Coach John Johnson was very upbeat, even in defeat, citing how the mistakes are easily fixable and the fact that only one offensive touchdown was given up by the New England (especially given the 7 turnovers) is cause for optimism.

He and the rest of his staff will be hard at work this week preparing the Intensity for their next game--a 4pm tilt at Medway High versus the Connecticut Wreckers, a team new to the league that New England does not have a lot of information on. As such, the Blue needs to be ready for anything and this promises to be a great game!

The Real Deal: Craig's 2012 MLB Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-06T21:21:54-04:00

30. Houston Astros
It’s really hard to believe that just seven years ago, this team was playing for the World Series, all is it, that team was stacked from top to bottom. But Ohh, how the times have changed, and this Astros team, is almost a glorified AAA team, they never got the production they wanted out of Carlos Lee, who will now be their everyday 1st baseman, Jed Lowrie will not be ready to begin the season (any Red Sox fan could tell you that) and they only have 2 solid starting pictures….who the organization want to deal as soon as humanely possible.
THIS Astros team will not see the playoffs this year, and with a move to the stacked AL West in the next few years, I’m not sure they ever will again.

29. Baltimore Orioles
Ohh, the problems with the Baltimore Orioles….how bad do they stink? Let me count the ways, a god awful Rotation: Check. A terrible Bullpen: Ohh yeah. Their lineup does have potential, I am a huge fan of Adam Jones, Nick Markakis, JJ Hardy and Matt Weiters, but the rest of that line up is so up in the air, Mark Reynolds will either hit a homerun or strike out, and have a average of about .200, and who knows if Brian Roberts will ever come back from his concussion.
Buck Showalter is one of the best managers in the game…but even he will take a long time to turn this team around.

28. Oakland Athletics
The A’s could have themselves a bona-fide super star if Yoenis Cespedes turns out to be the hitter people think he is going to be, and from what we have seen so far, he is, but that’s a big if.
The rest of this Athletics team leaves a lot to be desired, for the love of god, they were so desperate to put butts in the seats of that massive stadium that they signed someone (Manny Ramirez) who will need to serve a 50 game suspension before he can “try” and help this time.

27. Minnesota Twins
I’ll speak for myself when I say that baseball will really be right again now that Joe Mauer is primed for a comeback season. He was never really healthy or in shape last season, and we all saw it. Mauer to me is the face of MLB, and whenever he is having a good season, baseball is having a good season.
Aside from Mauer however, I just don’t know how to feel about this team…their starting pitching is at best mediocre, their bullpen has “meh” written all over it and their entire lineup revolves around two often injured players in former MVP’s Mauer and Justin Morneau. The Twins were AWFUL last season, and I just don’t see them getting much better, even if everyone is healthy.

26. Chicago Cubs
I’m going to be as nice as I can to Cubs fans here: your team is going to stink this year, but just sit back and enjoy as Matt Garza and Starlin Castro turn into super stars, and hope that Anthony Rizzo gets called up and contribute as well.
Beyond those things, this Cubs team really doesn't have much rooting interest. New boss Theo Epstein will need time to transform the Cubs into winners.

25. New York Mets
Johan Santana is finally healthy and looked great (and healthy) throughout all of spring training. This fact alone makes me feel better about the Mets then I did when spring training started.
But even with their ace back, I still don’t have much hope for this team, they have very weak starting pitching, a weak bullpen and a very weak lineup, hitting in a very large ballpark. In the talented NL-East, they are a lock for last place.

24. Seattle Mariners
There are things to like about the Mariners. Felix Hernandez should be considered the top CY Young contender in the American League, Jesus Montero is a hitting prodigy, Dustin Ackley is a great young player and moving Chone Figgins back to the leadoff spot should get him going again.
But overall, the best word to describe this team is "meh." The rotation behind Hernandez is weak, as is their bullpen, and no power at all sends the Mariners all the way to last place in the AL West.

23. Pittsburgh Pirates
It wasn’t very long ago that the Buc’s would be all the way down in these rankings. But things are starting to come around. The Pirates have some good young talent on the way, but it'll be another couple years before it all comes together and the Pirates can use it to make a run at a division title.
This season, the best the Pirates can hope for is that their rotation will be as good as it was early in the 2011 season and that their lineup will be carried by Andrew McCutchen. Even then, the Pirates will tread water in an NL Central that is very heavy at the top.

22. Colorado Rockies
I don’t think anyone is going to question the Rockies' ability to score runs this season. They have a lineup that is deeper than it was in 2011, and it's strong in the middle with Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez holding down the fort, and Todd Helton still being able to put up solid numbers even at his age, this team will be up there with the top “run scored“ teams in the league.
Pitching is a much bigger concern. The Rockies do not have a good rotation, they have Jeremy Guthrie then…..49 YEAR OLD JAMIE MOYER as their number 2 starter and their bullpen has some serious question marks hanging over it. That's an ill omen for a team that will play half its games at Coors Field.
The Rockies were pretty terrible beyond April last season. Don't expect them to be much better.
21. San Diego Padres
The Padres don’t look very strong on paper, they have a rotation that doesn’t have any sexy names in it, and a bullpen that doesn’t look as good as it did when they had Mike Adams and Heath Bell. But I’ll say this; the Padres are my sleepers this year.
Pitching and defense will be this team's M.O., and they could make a run at the NL West title if Yonder Alonso develops into a star and Carlos Quentin returns and starts hitting right away.

20. Chicago White Sox
The White Sox aren’t a terrible team, but their not great either, just good enough to avoid being horrible, but no team in the majors defines mediocrity quite like they do.
The White Sox could surprise people this season, but only if Alex Rios, Adam Dunn and Jake Peavy all enjoy healthy and productive seasons.
I’ll pause for a minute to let you all recover from the laugh attack you’re having.

19. Cleveland Indians
The Indians overachieved out of the gate last season, and they ultimately ended up using their fast start as an excuse to make an awful trade to acquire Ubaldo Jimenez.
The Indians are just as mediocre now months after that trade as they were when they made it. They resigned Grady Sizemore, hoping he would get back to the player he once was…he’s already on the DL, Astrubal Cabrera is a solid short stop, and Carlos Santana will be one of the top catchers in the game. They'll be able to avoid a last-place finish in the AL Central, but they have absolutely no shot at stealing the division from the Tigers.

18. Kansas City Royals
The Royals have been one of the most inept franchises in baseball for decades at this point, but they're headed in the right direction. There's some great young talent in the organization, and it should be fun to see what Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas can do over a full season.
The trouble is that the Royals don't have a strong rotation, and their bullpen is much weaker now that Joakim Soria is out of the picture. The Royals will be a middle-of-the-road club this year, and nothing more, but this team future is starting to look brighter.

17. Los Angeles Dodgers
The big story in Dodger land this year will be the club's transition out of Frank McCourt's hands and into, well, whoever's hands. Dodgers’ fans will be happy as long as it's someone other than McCourt.
The Dodgers have some good individual pieces in Clayton Kershaw, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier, and Dee Gordon will lead the National League in steals if he stays healthy and consistent. But compared to the top teams in the NL West, the Dodgers just don't quite stack up. But under new ownership, this team will be able to spend money this off-season for the first time in a LONG time, a very good story.

16. Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays are getting there. They're not there yet, but they're close.
So it goes with the Blue Jays. They have some good individual pieces here and there, most notably Jose Bautista and breakout candidate Brett Lawrie, but they don't have nearly enough firepower to compete with the powers that be in the AL East.
Maybe next year.

15. Cincinnati Reds
They don’t really have much of a rotation besides Matt Latos; they moved Aroldis Chapman, who was having a fantastic spring as a starter, back to the bullpen to set up now closer Sean Marshall, who must now close with Ryan Madson going down for the year with Tommy John surgery.
Sure their offence looks nice, but they don’t really offer much after Joey Votto, Brandon Phillips and Jay Bruce.
In short, this team falls well south of elite.

14. Atlanta Braves
A lot of people are down on the Braves right now, and for good reason. The news coming out of Braves camp this spring has been largely bad.
But look beyond the bad news and at the good stuff. You'll see that the Braves still have one of the deepest pitching staffs in baseball, which will most certainly come in handy. Plus, there's no way this lineup will be as bad in 2012 as it was in 2011. The Braves will likely get off to a slow start, but they'll come around.

13. Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks overachieved last season. We all know it's true.
But not by much. The D-Backs have two outstanding pitchers at the top of their rotation in Ian Kennedy and Daniel Hudson, they have a deep bullpen and they have a lineup that will hit a ton of home runs.
I shudder to think how good this team could be if the top arms in the system get called up and start contributing immediately.

12. St. Louis Cardinals
Just like the Brewers, don't assume the Cardinals are helpless just because they lost their big slugger over the off-season.
Pujols' offense will be replaced at a reasonable margin if Carlos Beltran hits like he did last year, and David Freese and Allen Craig can both stay healthy and productive. In addition, improved health will make Matt Holliday an MVP candidate.
The bigger concern with the Cardinals is Chris Carpenter's health. The Cards have the depth to account for his absence in the short term, but not the long term. They won the World Series without Wainwright, but they can’t without their ace…or can they?

11. Miami Marlins
On paper, the Marlins are as strong as any team in baseball and they were clearly the winners of the off-season. They have a talented rotation, a solid bullpen and a lineup that is full of both power and speed.
The one big "if" is health. Several of the Marlins' key players are injury-prone (Reyes, Ramirez, Morrison, and Johnson) and that's a big concern. If the injury bug bites this team in 2012, disaster will ensue. If the injury bug doesn't bite, the Marlins will shoot up these rankings in no time at all.

10. Boston Red Sox
The back end of Boston's rotation is very iffy, I like the addition of Doubront, I’ve liked him for years, not sure how I felt about Bard when the decision was made to make him the 5th starter, but with the move that Andrew Bailey will be out till the All Star Break, the move makes a lot more sense, Alfredo Aceves was solid in the bullpen all year last year, and Bard collapsed in September…I know, I know, so did everybody, but if Aceves and be solid and Bard can develop his change up, things will look up for them.
The top three pitchers in Boston's rotation are all rock-solid, and its lineup will score a ton of runs this season. The Red Sox are not as horrible as many people think they are.

9. Milwaukee Brewers
Prince Fielder is out of the picture, but don't think his departure has crippled the Brewers, they still have Ryan Braun, and I love the Brewers offence. They still have one of the deepest rotations in the National League, not to mention one of the deepest bullpens. If their pitching holds up, they'll have more than enough offense to pile up wins.

8. Washington Nationals
I'll be the first to admit it. I'm higher on the Nationals than most.
The thing I love most about the Nats is their starting rotation, which is young, deep and talented, but it’s not without its red flags. We're finally going to see what Stephen Strasburg can do over a full season, but you still have to worry about that elbow. Gio Gonzalez is a strikeout artist with a high ceiling, but too many walks and the long ball will kill him. Jordan Zimmerman was sneaky-good last season and Edwin Jackson is a fireballer who can be unhittable on a good day, but on a bad day, he can‘t get anyone out. The Nats lineup is far from perfect, but it has some thunder in it, Bryce Harper will be a star when he is up full time. Once Drew Storen comes back healthy, their bullpen will be elite.

7. San Francisco Giants
Buster Posey is back, and the Giants made some under-the-radar moves (i.e. trading for Melky Cabrera) over the off-season that will help them score more runs. Their pitching staff is led by three co-aces in Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain and Madison Bumgarner, and their bullpen is the best in the National League. If they stay healthy this season, the Giants will win the NL West by 10 games.

6. Philadelphia Phillies
At the end of the 2011 season, the Phillies were the best team in baseball by a wide margin. They've gotten worse ever since, as injuries have robbed them of key members of their lineup, losing Chase Utley and Ryan Howard at the start of the season hurts bad and their bullpen lost some depth over the off-season, Madson would have been smart to retain, but smart on the Phil’s to not.
Even still, the trio of Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels is so good it borders on being unfair.

5. Tampa Bay Rays
I maintain that the Angels have a deep and talented rotation, but the Rays are right there with them. The Rays have easily the best rotation in the AL East, and it will be one of the best in the majors when all is said and done. A lot of people have doubts about this offense, and I'm one of them. Carlos Pena and Luke Scott were nice additions but age is sure to affect them and they will both hit between .200 and .240, but Evan Longoria is still the best third baseman in baseball and Desmond Jennings has the potential to be even better than Carl Crawford.

4. Los Angeles Angels
OMG! Albert Pujols is an Angel!
Yes he is, and while he is a major addition to an already great team, what makes the Angels great is their starting rotation. The Angels have more talent one through four in their rotation than any team in the majors. Their bullpen has its issues, but the Angels starting pitching and improved lineup will make them slump-proof this season.

3. Texas Rangers
The Los Angeles Angels made all the big moves this off-season, but the Rangers are still king out in the AL West. Their lineup is still ridiculously strong with bats like Hamilton, Cruz Beltre and Napoli, and their starting pitching staff is still pretty deep despite the loss of C.J. Wilson. I have personally been following Yu Darvis’s career since 2006, he will win a CY Young award. But I have my doubts about Joe Nathan, he never seemed like the elite closer he used to be before Tommy John Surgery last season, but I love the rest of Texas' bullpen. Another trip to the World Series is not out of the question.

2. New York Yankees
There are some question marks hanging over the back end of the Yankees starting rotation, but they're strong as can be everywhere else. Their lineup is one of the deepest and most powerful in baseball, and their bullpen is the best bullpen in baseball, substantially. Despite their rotation concerns with Pineda having a bum shoulder, Pettitte not being ready for a while and Kuroda never pitching in the AL before, they can rest easy knowing CC Sabathia is going to win close to or more than 20 games.

1. Detroit Tigers
On paper, this Tigers team is absolutely stacked. The Tigers have a top-heavy rotation led by Justin Verlander and Doug Fister, and the middle of their lineup features two MVP candidates in Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder. Their bullpen is anchored by a guy in Jose Valverde who didn't blow a single save last season. This team will be competing for AL pennants for years to come.

AL East Winner: New York Yankees
The AL East to me is going to be once again the toughest Divison in baseball, and the proving ground for any team that wants to win the World Series, but out of the Contenders in the East, I really like the Yankees the most. Their pitching may not be the best, but their offence sure as heck is, The Yankees take the East.

AL Central: Detroit Tigers
There really is explanation needed here, the difference between first and second in the AL Central will be about 15 games. Detroit just has too much power, both on the mound and in the box; Detroit takes this division by the All Star Break.

AL West: Los Angeles Angles
Both Contending teams in the West are going to make the playoffs this season, and seasons to come, but I game the Angles a slight lead in terms of the division just because I really like that rotation 1-4, Albert Pujols doesn’t hurt much either

AL Wild Card 1: Texas Rangers
See above, replace “Angels” with “Rangers” and Albert Pujols with “Josh Hamilton”

AL Wild Card 2: Boston Red Sox
The Red Sox are going to fight all season, and by the break they should have Andrew Bailey, Carl Crawford, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Rich Hill back, those additions will be just as good as making trades, and put them just over the hump, that will be their competition, the Tampa Bay Rays.

Wild Card: Texas Rangers
In the battle of the two wild cards, I give the nod to the Texas Rangers, I just love their offence 1-9 and their rotation has the potential to be one of the best in baseball 1-5, better then the Red Sox 1-3.

NL East: Miami Marlins
At this stage of the rankings, I don’t know how I can’t give the East to Miami, 1-25 on their roster it looks like the best in baseball, time will tell, this team has the potential to have a worse collapse the last years Red Sox.

NL Central: Milwaukee Brewers
Too much offence, best bullpen in the Divison, should be able to take this Divison even with tough competition from the other teams.

NL West: San Francisco Giants
The NL West will cetin ally get a lot stronger in the coming years, with the Padres looking better and the Dodgers finally able to spend money, but for now easy pick: San Francisco runs away with this Divison.

Wild Card 1: Philadelphia Phillies.
Philly is going to do very good this year, their rotation should be solid as always, but missing Chase Utley and Ryan Howard to start off the season will just be to much for them to take the division from the Marlins, Phillies get into the postseason easy.

Wild Card 2: Washington Nationals
I am a BIG believe in the Nationals this year, their rotation has the potential to be the best in the National league and their offence isn’t shabby either, especially if Worth can turn it around and Bryce Harper is the phenom I hope he is.

Wild Card: Washington Nationals
Yup. That just happened
While I believe that the Phillies are one of the best teams in the NL…I think the Nationals can beat them, I love their offence, their bullpen blows Phillies away, and much like the Phillies, they have pitchers that could be #1’s on a lot of other teams…but they’re younger and can throw harder, I think that and their bullpen give them the edge.

AL Champion
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
To me, this team is the closest thing to a perfect baseball team that I’ve seen, Power, Speed, Average, Amazing pitching, great defense. If they or the Rangers don’t make the Series, I’ll be very disappointed.

NL Champion
Miami Marlins
They spent so much money trying to make this team the best it could possibly be, and I think it has the potential to be that team, new ballpark, new manager, new closer, new feel, new attitude?…health?…stamina? Let’s hope, because if this team has that, they should make it to the end…but if they don’t, they might not even make the playoffs.

World Series Champion:
Los Angeles Angles of Anaheim

Follow me on Twitter @CraigSNSW and @WGAO_SNSW

Tom's MLB Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-05T01:05:00-04:00

Tom's MLB Power Rankings
30) Baltimore Orioles
29) Kansas City Royals
28) Houston Astros
27) Pittsburgh Pirates
26) Seattle Mariners
25) Washington Nationals
24) Oakland Athletics
23) Toronto Blue Jays
22) San Diego Padres
21) Cincinnati Reds
20) Colorado Rockies
19) LA Dodgers
18) Milwaukee Brewers
17) Cleveland Indians
16) Chicago Cubs
15) New York Mets
14) Minnesota Twins
13) Tampa Bay Rays
12) Arizona Diamondbacks
11) Chicago White Sox
10) St. Louis Cardinals
9) Atlanta Braves
8) Miami Marlins
7) LA Angels
6) Boston Red Sox
5) Detroit Tigers
4) San Francisco Giants
3) New York Yankees
2) Texas Rangers
1) Philadelphia Phillies

AL East - N.Y. Yankees
AL Central - Detroit Tigers
AL West - Texas Rangers
WC 1- L.A Angels
WC 2- Boston Red Sox

NL East - Philadelphia Phillies
NL Central - St. Louis Cardinals
NL West - S.F. Giants
WC 1- Miami Marlins
WC 2 - Atlanta Braves

AL Winner - N.Y. Yankees
NL Winner - Philadelphia Phillies

WS Winner - Philadelphia Phillies in 6

Early April Sports Headlines

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-05T01:12:24-04:00

RONDO's KENTUCKY WILDCATS TAKE IT ALL OVER PIERCE"S KANSAS JAYHAWKS 67-59

Baylor becomes first NCAAW team to go 40-0 as they take down Notre Dame 80-61 in championship game!

Bobby Valentine has decided Alfredo Aceves will be closer with Andrew Bailey out 4-5 months due to injury.

Bobby Valentine has also reached an agreement with a New York Radio station to make a weekly appearance all season long.

Ray Allen returned to action Wednesday in the Celtics 87-86 loss to the Spurs. Rondo dropped 17 points in a game which the Celtics got outscored 59-48 in the first half but would come back in the 2nd half and outscore the Spurs 38-28, but Pierce would not be able to hit the buzzer beater for the victory. Celtics have 13 games left in the regular season and are currently 11 games back of first place Chicago and holding onto the 4th playoff seed.

The Independent Women's Football Conference Champions New England Intensity kick off their season on Saturday April 7th against the Montreal Blitz. 4:00pm Kickoff at Medway High School on 88 Summer Street in Medway. Tickets are cheap so attend some games and enjoy some great spring football. Also stay tuned to "The Sports Blast' for game highlights of the New England Intensity as well as interviews with players and coaches throughout the season

Kyle Lohse had a no hitter going into the 7th inning for the defending World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals but it would be broken up by Catcher John Buck however the Cardinals would spoil the Miami Marlins home opener taking them down 4-1 in game 1 of the 2012 MLB season in North America.

Tom's Opinion

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-04-03T02:07:05-04:00

Celtics beat Heat 91-72, Rondo Triple double 11 rebounds, 14 assists, 16 points.
Doc Rivers said in a quote we are going to start telling Rondo we are on national t.v. every night.
Why is he so good in the spot light, much more so than other games, 16 points last night 6 points, 17 assists @ minnesota Friday, 6 points, 14 assists vs UTAH wednesday.
I will give him credit for the assists but 12.4 points per game in the last non big profile games in the month of March these are Rondo's point totals, 9 Vs Houston, 5 VS Philly, 8 VS Portland, 12 vs clippers, 8 vs golden state, 4 vs sacramento, 12 vs denver, 10 vs atlanta, 10 vs milwaukee, 6 vs philly, 4 vs washington, 7 vs bobcats, 6 vs utah, 6 vs minnesota In february however he did drop 35 vs detroit and 15 vs milwaukee ill give Rondo credit for those 2 games
Rondo in big profile games and I will include February in this statistic, 14 vs lakers, 32 vs bulls, 17 vs chicago, 14 vs nets, 18 vs knicks, 24 vs lakers, 16 vs miami.
Is Rondo only a prime time point scorer or what?

So to sum up Sox spring training Andrew Bailey and Josh Becket have injured thumbs possibly because of video games, maybe thumb wrestling, i would be surprised if both pitchers had thumb injuries a day within each other for pitching purposes especially after last season and the guy who broke the news about Beckett The New Red Sox PR guy Pitcher Alfredo Aceves.
How disapointed would you be if after all the Sox went through with Becket he doesnt start the opening game because of a thumb injury, is it just me or is that a highly questionable injury?

MIAA IS PATHETIC BECAUSE THESE ARE THEIR NEW RULES
In addition to banning banners and balloons, the MIAA also forbids:

Cheering when an opposing player makes a mistake.
Cheering when the other team’s band is playing.
Cheering when your opponents get a penalty.

MIAA TAKES ALL THE FUN OUT OF SPORTS THEY SUCK!

BRUINS ARE ON FIRE AT THE RIGHT TIME AFTER GETTING OFF A SWEET WIN AGAINST THE RANGERS SUNDAY THEY ARE RIDING INTO THE PLAYOFFS HOT KEEP IT UP AND BRING HOME ANOTHER CUP< BUT REST THOMAS THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE SEASON SO HE IS GOOD TO GO FOR THE PLAYOFFS!

Spring Training News

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-20T14:33:00-04:00

Mel Parnell, the winningest left-hander in Red Sox history, died Tuesday after battling cancer, according to reports from his hometown of New Orleans.
Parnell spent his entire 10-year career with Boston, pitching for the Sox from 1947 to 1956. His best season was 1949, when he was 25-7 with a 2.77 ERA. Parnell led the American League in wins and complete games (27), and started the All-Star Game.

Daniel Bard yielded three runs across five innings Tuesday night against the Blue Jays. Bard allowed three hits while walking three and striking out a pair. While he was pretty shaky early on, he retired the final eight hitters he faced and 12 out of the last 14. Still, he has an underwhelming 10/6 K/BB ratio over 12 2/3 innings this spring and Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine admitted after the game that the walks are a concern.

THE SPORTS BLAST AND THE B4 ALTERNATIVE WILL BE BROADCASTING LIVE FROM THE TRADESMAN IN MILFORD, MASSACHUSETTS on 284 WEST STREET
AGAIN SOON!
TELL THE TRADESMAN YOU HEARD ABOUT THEM RIGHT HERE AND RECEIVE A DRINK DEAL!!!!

Breaking NFL Free Agency News

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-21T14:30:21-04:00

NFL FREE AGENT TRACKER
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Peyton Manning is officially a Bronco as he agrees to 5 years and 96 million.

DE Marc Anderson has agreed to terms with the Buffalo Bills

Report: Saints Coach Sean Payton Suspended for One Year due to Bounty Hunt, Saints Also Fined, Lose Draft Picks

The Tebow trade is getting better Jets have given up a 4th, 6th and 7th round pick for Tim Tebow!

DE Kamerion Wimbley says he received interest from the Patriots, Bengals, Seahawks and Packers before signing with the Titans.

The 49ers have agreed to terms with QB Alex Smith.

Patriots LG Logan Mankins underwent surgery to repair a torn ACL after the Super Bowl. One source tells Reiss that Mankins played through the partial ACL tear, not realizing the extent of the injury. Already considered one of the toughest players in the game, Mankins was listed on the injury report with a "knee" going back to Week 16. Although the Pats are hoping for a training camp return, veteran Robert Gallery has been brought in for insurance. The good news is that the ligament may not have been 100 percent torn, and linemen often return at a faster rate than skill-position players.

Is BountyGate worse than SpyGate?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-18T00:39:00-04:00

By: Jess Dempsey

First there was SpyGate. Now comes something worse – BountyGate. Worse because it involved a ‘pay for performance’ scheme that rewarded New Orleans Saints defensemen when they injured a player from an opposing team.
The NFL is confirming that between 22 and 27 players and at least one assistant coach for the Saints had a bounty pool of up to $50,000 during the last three seasons to ‘reward’ players who inflicted injuries on opposing team’s players. Two of the players with the highest ‘bounty’ rewards were Brett Favre and Kurt Warner. There were varying amounts depending on the injury – knockouts being worth $1,500 and cart-offs worth $1,000 with payments doubling and tripling during the playoffs.
According to the league, the bounty program was administered by Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, with the express knowledge (and therefore implied consent) of head coach Sean Payton.
Williams apparently had a similar system while working for the Washington Redskins as their defensive coordinator. Former Redskin Matt Bowen said in a column for the Chicago Tribune on Friday that he didn’t regret taking part in the bounty program because it was the team’s way “to extra-motivate.”
Former Bills safety Coy Wire told The Buffalo News that Williams also promoted the bounty program while he coached at Buffalo, telling the paper that there was “financial compensation” for inflicting injuries on opposing teams’ players. “[Hurting an opponent] was commended and encouraged” he went on to say.
Tom Benson, owner of the Saints, was apparently aware of the bounty program and ordered team general manager Mickey Loomis to halt it, which he failed to do. Sean Payton, a coach who is often revered for his sportsmanship and class, also failed to stop the program despite first-hand knowledge of its existence. This does not bode well for the reputation of the New Orleans Saints administration.

Damien Woody tweeted:
@damienwoody: This ‘bounty’ program happens all around the league…not surprising
@damienwoody: The bigger question w/ this ‘bounty’ issue is…..WHO SNITCHED?!?!
Those who are quick to dismiss the pay-for injury bounty program would do well to remember their stance on the Patriots’ involvement in SpyGate. Many sources confirmed that multiple teams in the NFL taped the signals of other teams without their knowledge, but the Patriots were just the first to ‘get caught.’ While against NFL league rules, SpyGate did not involve willful and malicious injury to other human beings for a small payday.
ProFootballChick has learned that the Redskins will now be investigated for their bounty programs as well. Commissioner Roger Goodell sent the following memo to the league’s owners:
As you know, league rules have long prohibited payment of non-contract bonuses — often referred to as “bounties.” These payments are prohibited whether offered generally, or in the context of a particular game or a player’s performance against a particular team. Such payments are contrary to rules relating to player contracts and the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and present a serious threat to the integrity of the game.
A particularly damaging form of bounty payment involves targeting an opposing player and offering payments for acts directed against that player.
Our office will shortly issue a press release based on the attached confidential report setting forth the key findings of a lengthy investigation into allegations that players on the New Orleans Saints violated the bounty rule during the 2009-11 seasons, and did so with the knowledge and assistance of certain members of the coaching staff.
These allegations first arose during the playoffs following the 2009 season. Despite a prompt response, NFL Security could not substantiate the allegations, in part because players declined to provide any information. During the latter part of the 2011 season, we received additional information that led us to reopen the investigation.
Over the past three months, our staff has reviewed some 18,000 documents and conducted multiple interviews. The findings in the accompanying documents are corroborated by multiple independent sources.
The investigation established that Saints defensive players regularly contributed cash into a pool, from which players received cash payments for certain achievements, including interceptions, fumble recoveries, etc. But players also received cash payments for “knock-outs” and “cart-offs” — plays on which an opposing player was forced to leave the game. These cash awards were in the $1,000 to $1,500 range. Funds were also occasionally contributed by at least one assistant coach.
This conduct obviously has no place in our game and I intend to take all steps necessary to make sure that it stops immediately. Each owner should promptly review this matter with his coaching staff to make sure that this or any related impermissible activity is not taking place at his club.
Throughout this process, we have received the full cooperation of Saints owner Tom Benson. There is no information suggesting that club ownership knew of or approved these actions.
I will hold further proceedings before imposing discipline and will, of course, advise all clubs of any disciplinary action. We will discuss this matter at the upcoming Annual Meeting.
Any club with questions may contact Jeff Pash or me.

Sports News 3-19-2012

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-19T00:29:22-04:00

Cincinnati advances to sweet 16 for first time since 2001 with a 62-56 victory over Florida State
Kansas comes from 11 down in the 2nd half too eliminate Purdue 63-60 in the exceptional 32 round.

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According to the Denver Post, the Dolphins are currently negotiating a contract with free agent Alex Smith that would pay him $8 million annually. The Dolphins are so desperate, after losing out on Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn, that they're now willing to significantly overpay a borderline NFL starter at near the level of franchise quarterback money.

The New England Patriots reach agreements with WR Brandon Lloyd and WR Anthony Gonzalez

Matt Flynn has agreed to terms with Seattle on a 3-yr contract worth up to $26M w/$10M guaranteed.

Wilmington defeats franklin 3-2 in division 2 hockey state championship
Hudson defeats Medway in high school hockey division 3 championship
Burlington defeated Milton 6-2 in Division 1 Championship
Division 3A Groton-Dunstable defeats South Hadley 4-3
In the Division 1A Championship Malden Mauls B.C. High 3-1
Boys Division 1 Basketball State Final Springfield Central over Brockton 67-46, First state title since 91 back in day of Travis Best
Girls Division 1 State Final Andover over Holyoke 61-45

Carl Crawford (wrist) took swings Friday for the first time since his setback earlier this month. Crawford took 15 swings with both hands and told Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe that he felt fine. The setback was caused by pushing himself too soon, so the Red Sox will be extra careful this time around. He's expected to begin the season on the disabled list.

St. Paddy's Day Sports News

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-17T01:37:14-04:00

Happy St. Paddys day Ladies and Gentlemen,

Well the luck of the Irish did not help the Celtics last night as right here on First Class Radio they got wooped by the Sacramento Kings 120-95, Marcus Thorton dropped 36 points on The C’s as with a chance to pull closer to the top of the division, The C’s were denied. With 22 games left to go in the season the Celtics currently hold the 7 seed in the eastern conference, only a game and a half back of the 4th seeded Philadelphia 76ers.

Yesterday was bracket buster Friday as St. Bonaventure, a small school out of New York and a 14th seed in the tournament took down 3 seeded Florida State 66-63.
11 seeded North Carolina State took down 6 seeded San Diego State 79-65
while, the most shocking game I believe took place in North Carolina as the 15 seeded Lehigh Mountain Hawks eliminated coach K. and the Duke Blue Devils 75-70. Oh and how about one more shocker from yesterdays March madness as Number 15 seeded Norfolk State out of Virginia knocked out 2 Seeded Missouri with an 86-84 win.

Also the last standing New England team was eliminated from the tournament as 16 seeded Vermont got man handled by the 1 seeded Tarheels of North Carolina 77-58. Your brackets are busted, New England is out time to route for the underdogs as Lehigh and Norfolk State advance.

NCAA Womens tournament kicks off today Prairie View A&M takes on Uconn at 1:30.

Big Time Hockey Action coming your way all weekend from NHL, NCAA and MIAA

Today at 1pm the Bruins battle with the Flyers at the Garden and look to get back to winning as they have dropped 4 straight and are now the number 7 seed in the eastern conference.

and The Hockey East Finals have been determined Boston College will take on Maine. B.C. beat Providence yesterday in the semi-finals 4-2, while the Night game featured Maine taking down Boston University 5-3.

Maine takes on Boston College in the Finals tonight at 8pm.

Sunday afternoon WMRC First Class Radio heads rink side at TD Garden as the Medway Mustangs battle Hudson at 1:30pm in the Boys Division 3 finals, followed by Wilmington VS Franklin at 3:30pm in the Boys Division 2 Finals right here on First Class Radio, coverage starts at 1:15pm on Sunday.

In Spring Training action the Minnesota Twins had a split squad and took down the Sox 2-1, John Lester went 4 not so good innings for the Sox and gave up 2 earned runs and 5 hits.

In the Peyton Manning sweepstakes The Broncos and the 49ers appear to be the 2 finalists as Manning is scheduled to work out for both teams this weekend. The Broncos offered Manning a contract close to what he would have gotten with the Colts totaling about 90 million dollars and over 5 years.

NFL Free Agent Tracker and Sports News

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-15T01:47:44-04:00

98.5 The Sports Hub's Damon Amendolara was a special guest on the Sports Blast hear, D.A. talk some sports with us Thursday Night 8pm/et and next Wednesday (March 21st) at 7pm/et

The Big Ticket Kevin Garnett still has it, hits a clutch field goal with 5 seconds left, Boston Celtics over the Golden State Warriors 105-103

The Celtics have offered Paul Pierce to the Blazers, according to a report from ESPN. It is unclear who Boston sought in return.

Celtics and Kings have had conversations about forward J.J. Hickson
Celtics Forward Chris Wilcox out for the season due to Cardiac Condition

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Jaguars signed QB Chad Henne to a two-year contract.
Jaguars signed WR Laurent Robinson, formerly of the Cowboys, to a five-year, $32.5 million contract.

Chiefs agreed to terms with RB Peyton Hillis.
Comment from Facebook fan Jimmy: I don't understand this. They have Jamaal Charles coming back this year...
Craig: well, it makes sense a little, Cornell's the HC they have Brian Daboll as the OC, who saw Hillis's breakout year so we'll have to see.

The Patriots will 'likely" make an effort to bring back Jabar Gaffney if the Redskins cut him
Patriots signed DE Jonathan Fanene to a three-year contract. The deal includes a $3.85 million signing bonus. Signing Fanene was reportedly the Patriots "first priority" after missing out on Red Bryant, and he'll likely be the team's starting left end in 2012
Patriots re-signed LB Niko Koutouvides to a one-year contract.
Two "unknown" teams are in on free agent BenJarvus Green-Ellis, and that the Patriots remain hopeful of re-signing him.
Brian Hoyer will explore his options around the league, trying to find a suitor who could make him a starter.
Patriots expect to re-sign Matt Slater

Eagles could soon agree to a long-term contract extension with LeSean McCoy.
Eagles re-signed franchise player DeSean Jackson to a five-year, $51 million contract.
Eagles agreed to terms with RE Trent Cole on a four-year contract extension worth a maximum of $53 million with $15 million guaranteed.

Broncos and Titans favorites to land free agent Peyton Manning.

It's looking "less and less likely" that the Colts will trade DE Dwight Freeney.

Colts signed WR Reggie Wayne to a three-year contract.

Cowboys signed QB Kyle Orton, formerly of the Chiefs, to a three-year contract.
Cowboys signed CB Brandon Carr to a five-year, $50.1 million contract

Vikings sign TE John Carlson to a 5 year, $25 Million dollar Deal

Detroit Lions signed WR Calvin Johnson to a 7 year $132 million dollar deal, $60 Million guaranteed essentially making Megatron a Lion for Life!

Rams agreed to terms with CB Cortland Finnegan on a five-year, $50 million contract, including $26.5 million in guarantees.

Free agent Mario Williams visiting Bills, they have a ton of money and run a 4-3 scheme, can easily sign him

Redskins agreed to terms with WR Pierre Garcon, Redskins also close to deal with WR Eddie Royal and have signed WR Josh Morgan

Free agent Vincent Jackson to the Bucs is done deal

THE 49ers have just signed RANDY MOSS to a 1 YEAR DEAL

Bears acquired WR Brandon Marshall from the Dolphins in exchange for two third-round draft picks.

Latest and Greatest Sports News

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-09T13:51:07-05:00

Friday March 9th 2012 A Brand New Edition of the Sports Blast at 7:30pm/et

With a $28 Million Dollar Bonus on the way and suffering a severe Neck Injury in 2011 that questions his future, The Indianapolis Colts were forced to released Peyton Manning Wednesday.

Teams in the running for Manning: Chiefs, Broncos, Redskins, Seahawks, Jets, Dolphins have all asked about the free agent Peyton Manning. Stay tuned to MSEN radio for the latest updates on Manning.

The Millis-Hopedale football co-op has not been disbanded by the MIAA, according to Millis athletic director Chuck Grant.
Grant has been asked by the MIAA to clarify how many players would be coming from Millis next season, and was told if the numbers he had given previously were accurate, it was likely that an extension of the co-op would be denied.
However, Grant said the numbers he had provided were the players who were varsity-eligible (10th grade or above), not those who were “varsity-capable” and would actually be on the varsity roster.
“Varsity-eligible is one thing, varsity-capable is another,” Grant said. “That’s where we’re at. We were at 20-24 (varsity-capable), then you bring in the Hopedale kids and it brings it to about 27. That’s where I’m at. … I’m very confident that this process hasn’t been completed yet and we’ll be OK.”
Grant made it clear that there has been no official declaration by the MIAA, and as such there is no appeal. Grant will provide the different numbers, and hopes to hear a decision by the middle of April.
The urgency will come when parents have to make decisions on where their son will attend school. A Hopedale parent with a football-playing son may not want to enroll at Hopedale High if there’s not an opportunity to play there.
If the program were discontinued, the current Hopedale players would be grandfathered in, but there was still angst among the team.
“Hopedale gets the opportunity to play football, and they get to keep people in their school district and play football,” Grant said.

Read Full Report on The Milford Daily News: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/sports/local_sports/x413536312/Millis-Hopedale-football-co-op-not-disbanded#ixzz1odiKPrZa

Norman Miller of Milford Daily News Writes
A Winthrop man accused of shining a laser pointer into the eyes of a Medway-Ashland girls hockey team goalie during a playoff game last week now faces criminal charges.
Joseph Cordes, 42, will be summoned to court on a charge of disturbing the peace. He will be arraigned at East Boston District Court at a later date, Winthrop Police said.
Cordes is accused of shining a green laser pointer into the eyes of Medway-Ashland girls hockey players during a Division 1 playoff game against Winthrop on Feb. 29. Cordes’ daughter plays for Winthrop.
Witnesses saw Cordes using the laser pointer from the upper bleachers at Larsen Rink, police said. Cordes was kicked out of the arena after school officials saw what he was doing.
Medway-Ashland lost the game, 3-1. An appeal to the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association to challenge Winthrop’s victory was denied.
Police said Cordes’ actions were “disrupting the game play and eliciting a highly emotional reaction from players and parents alike.”
The charge of disturbing the peace is appropriate, Suffolk District Attorney spokesman Jake Wark said.
“The charge is based on an evaluation of the facts and evidence and the laws,” Cordes said.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x127283493/Hockey-father-charged-in-Medway-Ashland-laser-pointer-case#ixzz1odjWCK42

MIAA Ruling on APPEAL OF MEDWAY/ASHLAND GIRLS HOCKEY GAME DENIED

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-02T13:48:01-05:00

High School Sports Talk RETURNING THIS WEEK TIME TBD
The MIAA ruled the following on the Laser Pointer Controversy at the Medway/Ashland VS Winthdrop Hockey Game

www.miaa.net
MASSACHUSETTS INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
33 Forge Parkway Franklin, MA 02038

FOR RELEASE: IMMEDIATELY CONTACT: PAUL WETZEL
781-982-8899

APPEAL OF MEDWAY/ASHLAND GIRLS HOCKEY GAME DENIED

March 2, 2012

Mr. Richard Pearson
Principal
Medway High School
88 Summer Street
Medway, MA 02053

Dear Mr. Pearson,

Please be advised the MIAA is in receipt of your letter of appeal of the final results of the Medway vs. Winthrop Girls’ Ice Hockey game played February 29, 2012. While your advocacy for the Girls’ Ice Hockey team is appreciated and the extenuating circumstances you cite respected, Association members schools are obliged to honor the standards of the National Sport Code adopted by the membership. MIAA Girls’ Ice Hockey is governed by National Federation Ice Hockey Rules.

Section 3, Article a. of the National Federation Ice Hockey Rules reads, in part related to your appeal: “The referees shall have jurisdiction over the game upon entry on the ice prior to the game until the ice is cleared of contestants after the game. The referees shall enforce all rules and shall rule on situations not specifically covered by rule. In case of any dispute, the decision of the referees shall be final and there shall be no appeal.”

Accordingly, the MIAA affirms that the decision of the referees shall be final.

For your information the MIAA Assembly, acting on a recommendation of an Ad Hoc Committee appointed by Board of Directors, voted that all interscholastic athletic contest controversies would be resolved by the process identified by the rules of the relevant National Sport Code (cited above).

In closing, please know that the MIAA Ice Hockey Committee will consider this incident while reviewing standards to insure optimal tournament experiences for all.

Sincerely,

William N. Gaine, Jr.
Deputy Director

High School B-Ball Playoffs

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-29T16:46:00-05:00

TONIGHT ON 1490am and WMRCDAILYNEWS.COM
B.C. High (15-5) @ FRANKLIN (17-3) 7:00PM
Central Games have been Postponed due to weather

WMRC's game last night was the Girls of Hopkinton taking down Walpole 46-30, It was a defensive game up until the 4th quarter in which Lindsey Doucette went off dropping 12 4th quarter points, 17 throughout the game in The Hopkinton Girls South Division 2 victory. Hopkinton advances to play the winner of tonights Medfield-Hingham game.

Another local south division 2 girls game last night the Holliston Girls were eliminated by Notre Dame losing 54-43.

Today in Girls South Division 3 Coyle & Cassidy are hosting Medway in Girls South Division 3 tournament play. Tomorrow at 7pm in Girls South Division 1 play 14 and 6 Newton North is at 18 and 2 Franklin. In Girls Central Division 1 Play Holy Name hosts Milford Saturday at 6pm after Milford defeated Tantasqua on Tuesday to advance 55-48. In Girls Central Division 2 play, Auburn took out Nipmuc earlier this week with a 62-50 victory, Auburn advances to play St. Bernards. In Central Division 3 girls tournament play Hopedale will play Parker Charter on Saturday at 7pm, winner advaces to the semi finals at Clark University and right above Hopedale in the Bracket is Blackstone Valley Tech who advanced awaits the winner of Bromfield and Nashoba tech who play Friday after yesterdays and todays central play delays due to snow.

In Central Division 1 Boys action Milford @ St. Johns moved to 7pm tomorrow, Friday due to snow and also tomorrow in Central Division 1 Marlboro takes on St. Peter Marian at Assumption College. The winners of both those games head to WPI. Nipmuc takes on Lunenburg in Lunenburg Saturday at 7pm in boys central division 2 play, after on Tuesday 14 seeded Nipmuc upset 3 seeded uxbridge in overtime 68-60. In Boys Central Division 3 Central play South Lancaster is at Hopedale, game is expected to be played although all other Central games scheduled for today have been postponed. Blackstone Valley Tech hosts North Brookfield Friday 7pm.

High School Basketball Playoffs: Round 1

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-28T14:19:24-05:00

Results From High School Playoff Basketball Last Night
Boys:
Millis eliminates Community Academy of Science and Health 67-46. Millis advances to Play at Holbrook Wednesday in South Division 4 bracket.

Fitchburg eliminates Tantasqua with a 75-64 victory and advances to play at Holy Name Thursday in Central Division 1 bracket.

Also in Central Division 1 Bracket Marlboro takes down North Middlesex 57-56 in overtime. Marlboro advances to play St. Peter Marian on Thursday at Assumption College.

In Central Division 3 Bracket Southbridge takes down West Boylston 55-54 and Southbridge advances to play at Worcester Tech.

In Boys Central Division 2 bracket 7 games Monday Night Nipmuc defeated Uxbridge 68-60 in over time. Nipmuc advances to play Lunenburg on Thursday, Lunenburg took down Narragansett 68-47.

10 Seed St. Bernards upset 7 seed Bartlett 84-75 and advances to play 15 seed Gardner who upset 2 seed Northbridge 61-52, 12 seed Grafton upset 5 seed Clinton 47-46 and Grafton will play 4 seed Groton-Dunstable who defeated 13 Seed Hudson 64-53, 9 Seed Oxford upset 8 Seed Auburn in Overtime 52-52 and Oxford advances to play 1 seed Quabbin on Thursday. 7 Games in Central Division 2 Boys 5 upsets.

GIRLS

In Girls south division 1, it will be Taunton @ Franklin Tomorrow Night as on Monday Taunton 17 seed upset Weymouth 60-56. On the other side of south division 1 bracket 15 seed West Roxbury gets shut down by 18 seed Whitman-Hanson 51-29 and 14 Seed Dartmourth takes down Plymouth South 49-37.

Tomorrow night we have Girls South Division 2 action as Walpole takes on Hopkinton Girls on WMRC, last night in South Division 2 18 Seed Hingham took down 15 seed Sandwich 69-56 and 17 seed Sharon took out 16 seed Silverlake 50-28.

Girls Central Division 3 action 16 seed Southbridge took down 17 seed Whitinsville Christian 58-51.

Tonight on wmrc first class radio and streaming online at wmrc daily news.com its girls basketball central division 1 action as 10 and 10 9 seeded Tantasqua are at 10 and 10 8 seed Milford. The winner of tonights game will be at 1 seeded Holy Name Friday Night at 7pm. The Lady Hawks are riding a 2 game winning streak, taking down Algonquin and St. Peter Marian in back to back games to clinch a playoff spot. Tantasqua last played on Feb 16th and got a 58-34 win to clinch a playoff spot. It’s High School Girls Playoff Basketball on WMRC First Class Radio and Streaming online at wmrcdailynews.com

Jason Varitek Retires

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-03-01T15:17:00-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

Jason Varitek will announce his retirement Thursday, Varitek came up with the Red Sox in 1997 and never left as he spent all 15 years of his career with the Sox. He Played 1,546 games in a Red Sox uniform, had a career batting average of .256 with 193 Home Runs, 757 Runs Batted In, 306 Doubles, 14 Triples and 1307 hits in 5,099 At Bats, Varitek also had a .341 on base percentage and a .435 slugging percentage.

Fielding wise as a Red Sox catcher, Varitek was one of the best fielding catchers in Red Sox history with a .994 fielding percentage and only 69 errors in his 15 year career. Varitek also only had 105 passed balls with 25 of them coming in his first year as a full time catcher for the Red Sox with 25 passed balls.

Varitek was one of the greatest catchers in Red Sox history and should always be remembered as one of the heroes that brought home the World Series trophy in 2004 and 2007.

You Will Be Missed, Mr. Varitek and we hope to see you take on a coaching role very soon with the Boston Red Sox!

Tune into the Sports Blast Special Tuesday Edition Feb 28th as we pay tribute to one of the Red Sox Greats!

Is Uconn and Syracuse Greatest Rivalry Ever?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-26T22:54:43-05:00

Rivalry Rant By: Tom Nappi

On Saturday Feb 25th 2012
#2 Syracuse - 71 UCONN - 69

Going into the 2nd half Syracuse had a 43-29, U Conn outscored Cuse 40-28 in 2nd half.

:51 seconds left in the half Andre Drummond made a tip shot to tie up the game. Fab Melo put Syracuse ahead with :25 seconds left with a dunk and Cuse never looked back as they won the Big east title. Cuse 29-1 on the season, now last time these 2 teams met on Feb 11th it was Cuse running away with the game but usually when it's Syracuse playing Uconn you have an absolutely amazing basketball game.

Uconn and Syracuse Basketball is one of the most underrated great rivalries in Sports.

2010-11 season when these 2 teams met, they split Syracuse won 66-58 and then Uconn upset Cuse at Big East tournament 76-71 in overtime.
2009-10 season Syracuse beat Uconn 72-67
2008-09 season early February Uconn killed Cuse 63-49, and then 31 days later on March 11th 2009 the most epic game ever, I will never forget it Cuse gets the upset 127-117 victory in 6 over times.... i repeat 6 overtimes.

After the 6 overtime game this rivalry really started gaining its recognition as always a great basketball game but even in 2007 the closeness of the Syracuse-Uconn Rivalry was still in existence.

2007-2008 season Uconn beat Syracuse 63-61,
2006-2007 Uconn wins game 1 67-60 Cuse wins game 2 73-63, and Cuse gets game 3 78-65,
2005-2006 they met 3 times Cuse took game 1 88-80, and Cuse won game 2 73-50 but game 3 goes into overtime and Cuse takes it 86-84.
2004-2005 they met 3 times again with in a 35 day span. Uconn wins first 2, 74-66, 88-70 but Cuse wins the big east tournament game 67-63.
2003-2004 game 1 monday feb 2nd 2004 Uconn pounds Cuse 84-56, 35 days later March 7 2004 Cuse beats Uconn 67-56.
2002-2003 Uconn gets both games, that was the big Uconn championship year but still cuse keeps it close 75-61, 80-67.
2001-2002 they did not play each other, but you look at the 10 year span of games between Uconn and Syracuse and how they went back and forth and 1 day Cuse or Uconn could crush the other and then just 30 days later they could play a 6 overtime game or it could be a buzzer beater to win it.

And it came to me Saturday Night, it's rivalries like Syracuse and Uconn people love sports, Sports is one of the most unpredictable things in life and it's rivalries like Uconn and Syracuse that just make it amazing entertainment.

Screw the Oscar winning movies or the Grammy winning musicians, why would you want to watch them over Syracuse and Uconn and if your a fan of one of those teams your heart is in your throat every time one meets the other.

Top Rivalries in sports Sox-Yankees, Lakers-Celtics, Giants-Dodgers, Patriots-Jets, Bruins-Canadians, Packers-Bears and add Syracuse and Uconn to the list as one of the most unbelievable rivalries in sports, this is why people love sports and more-so college sports for games or match ups like Syracuse and Uconn. You think about it from a college perspective as well their is usually major turnover every year at big universities in basketball because Cuse and Uconn are 2 of the top teams for NBA players. That makes the fact they have been going back and forth the past 10 years even more amazing.

THIS WEEK ON SPORTS BLAST WE DISCUSS IS SYRACUSE AND UCONN GREATEST RIVALRY IN SPORTS EVER!!!
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Comment on our blog page : masportsweb.wordpress.com
or call us Tuesday Night starting at 10pm 508-422-7550

WMRC H.S. Basketball PLAYOFF SCHEDULE

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-26T14:43:22-05:00

Check Out Our Friends at WMRC (1490am) Milford, MA,
They are your source in the Milford area for Local News, Sports and much more!

If You are looking for an excellent Sports Show You can check out the "Sports Buzz" online and on air Every Saturday 10am-Noon/est. If you are looking for local news "Day Break" has you covered on WMRC Every Weekday Morning 6-9/am EST Also Check Out the WMRC Media Center to replay all there live shows!

WMRC HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PLAYOFF SCHEDULE
Available 1490am Milford and WMRC Media Center

Tuesday February 28th 2012 (Girls Basketball) 7:00pm
Tantasqua (10-10) @ Milford High School (10-10)

Wednesday February 29th 2012 (Girls Basketball) 7:00pm
Walpole (14-6) @ Hopkinton (15-5)

Thursday March 1st 2012 (Boys Basketball) 7:00pm
Milford (15-5) @ St. John's (16-4)

Sunday March 3rd 2012 (Boys Basketball) 3:00pm
(Only if Milford Wins Thursday)
Holy Name, Fitchburg or Tantasqua VS Milford
@ Worcester Polytechnic Institute

MORE GAMES WILL BE LISTED SOON!

Brought to you in part by

Medway Nutrition on 116 Main Street. 5% off any purchase if you tell them you heard it right here on MA Sports Web! Also free protein or pre-workout drink samples with any purchase! Click to check out their website!

Football is BACK in MARCH!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-22T11:02:43-05:00

The New England Intensity is celebrating it's 10th anniversary this season, has been to the playoffs 4 consecutive years (5 of the last 6) and was the National Champion runner-up last season (Eastern Conference Champion in the IWFL--Independent Women's Football League). The Intensity is excited as they are loaded with one of the best rosters and staffs they have ever had! The 2012 Season will feature some great Football and is expected too feature a nice run by the Intensity.

The Massachusetts Sports and Entertainment Network will feature broadcasts of some New England Intensity home games and also keep you updated on how the Intensity fares throughout the season. The New England Intensity play their home games at Medway High School located on 88 Summer Street in Medway,MA at the High School.

Looking to watch some good Football this Spring, Tickets are Cheap! Details are here
http://newenglandintensity.jigsy.com/directions

2012 New England Intensity
Schedule and Results
Regular Season
Saturday, April 7th, 2012 . . . vs Montreal Blitz
Saturday, April 14th, 2012 . . . vs Connecticut Wreckers
Saturday, April 21st, 2012 . . . BYE
Saturday, April 28th, 2012 . . . vs New Hampshire Freedom
Saturday, May 5th, 2012 . . . BYE
Saturday, May 12th, 2012 . . . at New Hampshire Freedom
Saturday, May 19th, 2012 . . . at Northeastern Nitro
Saturday, May 26th, 2012 . . . BYE
Saturday, June 2nd, 2012 . . . at Southern Maine Rebels
Saturday, June 9th, 2012 . . . at Montreal Blitz
Saturday, June 16th, 2012 . . . vs Southern Maine Rebels
Post Season
Conference Semi-Finals . . . June 30th, 2012 . . . Time/Venue TBD
Conference Finals . . . July 14th, 2012 . . . Time/Venue TBD
Championship Game . . . July 28th, 2012 . . . at Round Rock, Texas

Medway Holiday Tournament

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-21T21:55:51-05:00

On Monday and Tuesday Medway High School hosted its annual Presidents-Day high school basketball tournament. 4 Playoff Contenders were featured in the tournament.

Day 1 Monday Feb 20th:

Whitinsville-Christian - 71 Cardinal Spellman - 54
Medway High School - 56 Franklin High School - 67

Day 2 Tuesday Feb 21st:

Consolation Game:

Medway - 45 Cardinal Spellman - 69

Championship Game

Franklin - 65 Whitinsville Christian - 49

Records:
4) Medway High School (10-10)
3) Cardinal Spellman (17-5)
2) Whitinsville Christian (13-5)
1) Franklin Panthers (16-4)

Other Scores from Monday Feb 20th.

Girls High School Basketball
Blackstone Valley-Tech - 57 Norfolk-Aggie - 29

Boys:

Hopkinton - 61 Duxbury - 43

North Attleboro - 50 Milford - 42

Blackstone Valley Tech - 71 Tri-County - 48

Tim Wakefield Retires after 19 Years in MLB

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-18T00:52:15-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

Knuckleballer Tim Wakefield retired Friday February 17th 2012 and should be remembered forever as one of the greatest and most loyal Red Sox of all time. Wakefield was an outstanding pitcher throughout his Red Sox career and for the most part always came through with an impressive performance when called upon as a starter, reliever, set up guy or closer. He Started off his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1992, but was acquired by the Boston Red Sox in 1995, which he debuted with a 16-8 record and a 2.95 E.R.A.

Tim Wakefield was one of the rarest pitchers in the league surviving primarily with his knuckleball, his most noted failure was the Yankess Aaron Boone home run given up by Wakefield in 2003 to give the Yankees the ALCS victory, but Wakefield would avenge that fault by being huge in the 2004 and 2007 playoffs, which gave him the chance to end his career with 2 Red Sox World Series rings. What Tim Wakefield did in the Majors was truly unique and he showed a style of pitching that is unlike mostly any other in which you don't need speed but you need accuracy and movement, and gave hope to up and coming knuckleballers around the world. Watching Wakefield pitch throughout my life was truly a great experience and I will always remember him as one of the greatest Boston Red Sox of all time.

Tim Wakefield finishes his career with a record of 200 Wins and 180 Losses with a 4.41 E.R.A., 2156 Strike Outs and only a .254 batting average for opposing batters. Tim enjoy retired life with your family and friends and I hope you are back very soon for an honorary pre-game ceremony, preferably for another World Series or maybe we will see you sometime soon take a coaching role!

Special Edition of the Sports Blast

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-14T15:25:10-05:00

TUESDAY FEB 14th 2012 at 10pm Special Edition of Sports Blast!

- Floyd Meaweather questions the fame of Jeremy Lin. Floyd Tweeted
"Jeremy Lin is a good player but all the hype is because he's Asian. Black players do what he does every night and don't get the same praise,"
Tonight We discuss this on the Sports Blast

13 and 5 Milford High School matches up with 14 and 5 Wachusett High School Tuesday Night! Action can be heard on www.wmrcdailynews.com or 1490 am in the Milford, MA Area. Tom Nappi has the call! We will have the recap of this game and more H.S. B-Ball action on the Sports Blast!

Bruins take on the first place New York Rangers, are the Rangers a legit threat for the Bruins quest for a Stanley Cup Repeat?
Rangers are 36-13-5 on the season with 77 points, 7 points ahead of the 2nd place Bruins who are 34-17-2, 70 points.

The Boston Celtics take on the 8-21 Detroit Pistons wednesday night. The Celtics are 15 and 12 on the season 2nd place in the Atlantic Division. Celtics are 7-3 in their last 10.

Boston College claimed their 3rd straight Beanpot Championship as they take down the Boston University in overtime last night 3-2
Read More Here: http://news.bostonherald.com

All This and More on a Special Valentines Day Tuesday Night Sports Blast

Pierce Passes Bird

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-07T23:43:22-05:00

How about some good news for Boston sports fans!

Paul Pierce has passed Larry Bird to become the 2nd all time scorer in Boston Celtics history. Pierce buried a 3 from the right wing in the 3rd quarter with 10:23 left to go passing Bird who scored 21,791 points during his Celtic career. Pierce finished the game putting up 15 points and moving his Celtics career total to 21,797 points. Pierce is 28th on the NBA's all time scoring list just behind Gary Payton with 21,813 points. In order for Pierce to be the number one scorer of all time with the Celtics he will have to pass John Havlicek who has 26,395 with the Celtics.

Boston also won their fifth straight tonight beating the Charlotte Bobcats 94-84.

Tom Brady’s legacy is still intact, even after Super Bowl

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-07T23:08:24-05:00

By: Craig D'Alessandro

I have not watched a sports program on television or radio since the end of Super Bowl 46, because I had a good idea about what they were going to talk about, This writing is taking place on a Tuesday, and I finally decided to watch some sports, figuring they’d only be talking about the Super Bowl, 75% of the time…I was wrong. All I heard was bashing, bashing, bashing of Tom Brady particular from a Rob Parker, it irked me so much, I felt the need to write this article to all of you.

Do I think Tom Brady is in the decline…yes…but only from an age perspective.

This does not mean that Tom Brady isn’t the elite quarterback that he was on Saturday. Far, far from it.

But if you ask any other analyst after last Sundays Super bowl loss, in what was clearly the second mediocre by Brady in as many Super bowls, so many pundits, particularly from a certain four letter network, were quick to say that Tom Brady’s career is tarnished and invalid.

Hogwash, nonsense, shenanigans……Bull****

Has Tom Brady lost two Super bowls? Yes. Has he looked less than “Tom Brady-ish” during those two Super Bowls? Abso-freakin-lutley. But he has also led his team to five of them, only Brady and some quarterback named Jonathan Albert Elway Jr. have done that.

“I hope we do get back here again,” Brady said after the heartbreaking 21-17 loss on Sunday. “I’ve been lucky enough to play in this game five times in 10 years. I’d love to keep coming back to this game and taking a shot. It’s better than sitting home and not playing in this game, so I hope another opportunity comes.”

Tom Brady has now lost 2 Super Bowls, but he has also won three of them. Terry Bradshaw, Joe Montana and Troy Aikman can claim the same. What do they all have in common? Canton, Ohio. Brady could lose the next 10 Super Bowls, but he’ll always have his three victories. Its not like they are now invalid. They’re not going anywhere.

Tom Brady’s place in history was already in place seven years ago when he won his third Super Bowl. Despite this fact, every analyst is treating this game like it was the defining factor of a career that had already been defined as one of the greatest ever.

“No longer will he be in that conversation about being the best ever,” Rob Parker said on ESPN this week. “Everything was set up and Tom Brady couldn’t make a simple pass in a clutch situation. Instead now, when you look at him, you know what he is? He’s just another guy. He’s just another guy who’s won multiple Super Bowls.”

Boy, it sure was nice of Parker to include that little qualifier at the end, but it’s still wrong. Terry Bradshaw is “just another quarterback who’s won multiple Super Bowls.” I mean….so is Ben Roethlisberger, and so is Jim Plunkett, and I think if you asked ten people, ten people would say that Tom Brady is much, much better then both of those quarterbacks. Hell, I bet as soon as you read the name Jim Plunkett, you immediately “googled” his name to figure out who the hell he is.

First, there are the stats. His 5,235 yards this year, at age 34, were the second-most ever thrown in an NFL season, only behind Drew Brees who reached that mark earlier this season. His 50 touchdowns in the 2007 were the most ever in a single season.

Brady has had so many seasons at such a high level that he has a real shot, if he plays, lets say, three more seasons at the level he has been playing his entire career, to be forth all time on the touchdown list, only behind Peyton Manning (399) , Dan Marino (420), and Brett Farve (508), that’s a pretty good list of quarterbacks who never won 3 Super Bowls. (Fun Fact: Tom Brady has only thrown 116 interceptions, compared to Manning’s 198, Marino’s 252 interceptions and Favre’s 336, the gold standard for NFL interception-throwers.)

Don’t believe in stats? Well fine, I’ll let Brady’s winning percentage do the talking then. Brady has excelled like no other when it comes to the very reason the players step on the field each week: winning. Brady is 124-35 (78.0 winning percentage) as a starter in the regular season. For comparison, Joe Montana, Brady’s idol, was 117-47 (71.3 percent), Roger Staubach was 85-30 (73.9 percent), Elway was 148-82-1 (64.1 percent), Johnny Unitas was 118-64-4 (63.4 percent), Marino was 147-93 (61.3 percent), Steve Young was 94-49 (65.7 percent) and Favre was 186-112 (62.4 percent). Then we look at the active quarterbacks, Peyton Manning…if you want to call him active…is 141-67 (67.8 percent), Drew Brees is 92-61 (60.1 percent), Eli Manning, everyone’s new hero, is 69-50 (58 percent). (and If you look at Eli’s career numbers…what’s so special about him really?)

And in the playoffs? Its not even a discussion, Tom Brady is 16-6, Montana was 16-7, no one else is even close.

Sorry for all those numbers, but I’ll give you the simple version, Tom Brady was and still is the Gold standard of any NFL quarterback. Brady was, is and will continue to be a winner in this league, and that’s what this game is all about. In the discussion for “greatest quarterback of all time,” Brady might not be the first name on that list, but he’s without question still in the discussion. If Brady had won this Super Bowl, if Brady has thrown a few more passes to Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, and he could very well be No. 1.

Despite all of this, there have been to many people treat this past Super Bowl as Tom Brady‘s legacy cemented. “Joe Montana’s on a different level, and Tom Brady had a chance to be in that conversation,” Parker said. “He will never, ever be in that conversation again.” Shut your mouth, Parker has made some of the most absurd comments I have ever head in my life.

And It didn’t stop with Parker “He has morphed from Mr. Clutch to Mr. Choke in the biggest games, forget Joe Montana and Terry Bradshaw. He’s become Jim Kelly. LeBron James. Alex Rodriguez. Dare I say it: A playoff choker.” another writer wrote, I won’t dignify him with identification, but he works for CBS. (didn’t hear any chocking comments after the Denver game, or the Raven’s game, odd isn’t it?)

Making such absurd claims are simply taking the events of this year or last year and wrongly placing them in historical context. Jim Kelly, LeBron James and Alex Rodriguez have a combined one championship, equal to one-third of Brady’s.

Its really a whole bunch of nonsense. In time, history wont remember that Wes Welker dropped that pass, that Rob Gronkowski was dealing with an ankle injury, or Logan Mankin fighting through a bad sprained MCL and getting beat by Justin Tuck. Everyone will only remember the Super Bowls for Brady 3-2.

Unfortunately, I feel the need to remind people of this, Tom Brady still plays for the New England Patriots, and they remain the gold standard of all NFL teams. Brady and Co. aren’t going anywhere, they have the easiest schedule out of any team next season, and the Pats, if they're going to get back to the grandest stage of them all, they need to address a few Areas: they need a deep threat, something this Patriots team did not have, the pass rush could be improved, but I was still impressed with how they preformed. This team isn’t going anywhere…It’s just another chapter.

And Remember, 3 Super Bowls, is always better then 2.

Tom Brady’s legacy is still intact, even after Super Bowl

10 Reasons Patriots Lost Super Bowl 46

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-07T12:45:47-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

Below is 10 simple reasons the Patriots lost, listed in order of importance, with 1 being the most important.

10) Lack of Experience in the Big Game - With nearly half the team being un-drafted or walk ons I am sure that the inexperience in any kind of playoff situation for most of the Patriots had an affect on this game.

9) Rob Gronkowski's ankle was clearly a factor - he had 1 reception for 20 yards all game and was unable to break away from defenders or get the usual height on his jumps. Although if you watch the video on Boston's Barstool Sports of Gronk raging or partying after the game to rap group LMFAO, you may question his ankle injury.

8) The Non-Ability to Create Turn Overs - 3 fumbles by the Giants and the defense was unable to come up with the key turnover they usually do. With a lack of a secondary and a questionable linebacking crew, the Patriots usually need turnovers to win and were unable to take advantage of any in this game.

7) Lack of a Deep Threat - The Patriots usually throw short passes and utilize a lot of short slants and in routes, the lack of a deep threat was a factor in this game as the front 7 for the Giants got to Brady, while the Giants questionable secondary was never really put to the test.

6) No Pressure from the Defensive Line - Vince Wilfork was double teamed for much of the game, apparently the Giants watched the video of the Patriots-Ravens game and no one else from the defensive line stepped up to get any kind of pressure on Eli. The Giants murdered the Patriots in the battle of the trenches, on both sides of the ball.

5) Tom Brady Struggles - I don't put a lot of blame on Brady for this one, but he did make a few questionable passes including the interception to Blackburn in the 4th quarter. A lot of Brady's struggles however resulted because the offensive line got crushed by the Giants D-Line.

4) Offensive Line Struggles - The Offensive line failed to protect Brady and he was constantly pressured. 2 sacks for the Giants and Brady was constantly throwing under pressure.

3) Coaching over thought themselves - Why didn't Patriots stay in the hurry up offense? Both hurry up offensive drives resulted in touchdowns, at the end of the first half and the beginning of the 3rd quarter. The coaches over thought themselves by switching out of the hurry up which worked!

2) Wide Receiver Drops - The last drive drops by especially Welker, but also Hernandez and Branch crushed the Patriots and gave them another 3 and out. Tom Brady cannot throw and catch as Gisele told a bunch of Giants d-bag fans bothering her after the game, she was 100% right. Step up your game boys!

1) Defense Could Not Get Off The Field - When it comes to defense, too many people are giving the defense credit for only giving up 19 points or 13 points if you disregard the last touchdown, but that is misleading, as just about every Super Bowl Champion has the ability to keep the opposing offense off the field for at least half of the game and make key stops, the Patriots pretty much had no key stops and the Giants offense was on the field 37 of the 60 minutes, giving Brady very limited time to pick up any kind of momentum and if you give up 396 yards to a high powered offense like the Giants. YOU ARE DEAD!

Sports Update Feb 4th 2012

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-04T01:11:44-05:00

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS TALK RETURNS THIS FEBRUARY

The Sports Buzz is on the road with the Patriots tailgate party at Hickey’s Liquors, go down and join the action as we prepare you for Super Bowl 46 in which the New England Patriots take on the New York Football Giants. Rob Gronkowski is listed as questionable for the Super Bowl but count on Gronk playing in the game of the year. Bill Belichick said there is no setbacks for the return of Gronkowski.

Peyton Manning was cleared by doctors to return to NFL action but there is no time table for his return.

The Boston Celtics beat the New York Knicks 91-89 at the Garden with a last minute 3 pointer from Paul Pierce, The Celtics are now 12 and 10 on the season. The Celtics meet up with the Memphis Grizzlies right here on WMRC first class radio at Noon Super Bowl Sunday, Game can be heard right here on WMRC First Class Radio.

In WMRC’s first class radio’s Friday Night High School Basketball game of the Week the Milford Scarlet Hawks took down the Leominster Blue Devils at home 54-36. Defense dominated up until the 4th quarter as it was 28-21 heading into the 4th quarter, but the Hawks would outscore the Blue Devils in the 4th Quarter 26-15, to get their 11th win of the year. Jan Fuentes was the player of the game dropping 14 points, 10 of which came into the 2nd half. Milford next plays against Worcester North this Sunday at 1pm, game will not be on WMRC due to Celtics basketball, but head down to Milford High School to get ready for Super Bowl by watching some great High School Basketball action.

Blackstone Valley Tech improved to 8 and 5 as they took down Bay Path in Colonial Athletic League action 65-58.

In other Midwatch A action Algonquin took down Fitchburg 47-44, Tri Valley League Boys Basketball Medfield took down Holliston 57-56, Medway beat Dover-Sherborn 67-62, Norton was all over Millis 64-37 and Hopkinton wiped out Bellingham 61-36. The Hillers are now 5 and 5 on the season.

In Girls action Blackstone Valley Tech wiped out Bay Path 37-14, Hopedale took care of Whitinsville Christian 48-31, The Hopedale lady Blue Raiders are now 12 and 3 on the season. In Mid-Wach A action Leominster wiped out Milford 62-46, The Hawks fall to 5 and 7 on the season.

In Tri Valley League Girls Basketball Ashland took care of Westwood 54-31, Millis over Norton 39-35, Medway over Dover-Sherborn 66-32, The Mustangs are 9 and 6 and 1 win away from a ticket to the post season. Hopkinton Lady Hillers took care of the Blackhawks of Bellingham 63-33, The Lady Hillers are 8 and 5 on the season. Medfield over Holliston 54-32.

Great High School Hockey action today at 1:50PM as Northbridge takes on Milford and at 6:30pm Bellingham meets up with Holliston and at 7:20pm Hopkinton takes on Dover-Sherborn.

Speaking of Great Hockey Action Today at 1:00PM The Pittsburgh Penguins take on the Boston Bruins, The Bruins are currently tied with the Philadelphia Flyers for 2nd place in the Eastern Conference with 66 points.

10 Keys to Patriots Victory in Super Bowl 46

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-02-03T15:27:02-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

In my prediction Super Bowl 46 between the New England Patriots and New York Giants will come down to one defensive play, which team makes the extra stop or gets the key turn over. All we can do, to analyze any game is guess, because the future is unpredictable and if you look at this Super Bowl, this could arguably be the closest matchup for a Super Bowl ever, both of these teams are extremely even, both have highly affective offenses while on defense, both have a severe weakness in the secondary and a pretty strong front 7. Both of these teams are riding hot streaks, the Giants, I would argue are hotter right now due to the fact the teams they have beat as of late overall are much better quality opponents than the teams the Patriots beat, which is the key reason even though the Patriots are favored by 2.5 in Vegas, 65% of people are betting on the Giants.

I am going to break down this game with 5 things the Patriots must do offensively and 5 things defensively if they want to beat a tough Giants team, that has beat the Patriots the past 2 times they have played them. First off I never account for a past game that is more than 3 weeks old when it comes predicting time, because the setting, scenario and game plan is always evolving especially if you are coached by Bill Belichick or Tom Coughlin. Before I break it down big props to Belichick for moving Devin McCourty to safety, that move was genius, is it right to continue this in the Giants game, not sure as the Giants have extremely fast receivers on the outside in Nicks, Cruz and Manningham, you may need McCourty to cover one of them.

5 Offensive Keys To Beat The Giants
(1 is the most important)

5) Block with Gronk: Rob Gronkowski will likely not be 100% with a high ankle sprain, I am predicting about 60-70% with a week to heal and from my prior severe ankle sprains. Gronk will definitely play, I think you could cut off all of his limbs and he would still play and contribute. Gronk will either be heavily covered in this game or not 100% so use Gronk primarily as a blocker, it is almost just as big of a contribution than Gronk being used in the passing game, no matter what the case throw in Gronks direction at least a few times to draw defenders his way but i expect Gronk to be used primarily as a blocker.

4) Utilize the Law Firm: Benjarvus Green-Ellis is a running back that pretty much never runs for negative yardage, the Giants are hard hitting and the "Law Firm" can dish it right back so let the "Law Firm" do some bumps with the Giants D-Line and utilize your entire backfield in the passing game, throw some confusing plays in there, maybe have the Law Firm or Woodhead run a couple routes, this will really throw off the bag of crap, trash talking Giants secondary.

3) Pick on the G-Men Secondary: The Giants backfield is just as bad, if not worse than the Patriots, pass all over the secondary, put a number of guys out there for deep balls, yes even throw Ochocinqo in the game for a few snaps, he has been a non-factor all year but has the potential to be forgotten by the Giants secondary. Deion Branch, Matt Slater and Tiquan Underwood should also be utilized with Branch playing 75% of the snaps, you must throw deep to exploit the Giants questionable secondary.

2) Step it up O-Line: The Patriots O-Line must protect Brady, The Giants pass rush is going to be foaming at the mouth for the chance to take down or hit Brady, you cannot let Brady get hit too much because this will lead to Brady interceptions, Brady must be protected by this O-Line all game long, they cannot let the Giants relentless pass rush tire them out.

1) Do What You Do Best: Welker, Hernandez and Gronk as usual! Throw a couple tricks in the game plan but stick to your core, the real big 3 in Mass has led the Patriots to victory all year long, do not get too far away from using the 3 best athletes on your offense besides Brady in Gronk, Hernandez and Welker. Hernandez should also be used in the backfield, I loved that, he has speed, force, runs hard and it will take multiple defenders to bring him down, pound, pound, pound all game long. Tire the defense out!

5 Defensive Keys To Beat The Giants
(1 is the most important)

5) Keep Going Secondary - Coach Belichick work your magic, move guys around and do whatever you need to do too keep the backfield on the upward trend. The secondary has progressed every single game just about, so keep making the adjustments or moves you make to keep the secondary on the upward trend, do not fear pulling the trigger on any move that may work because it could always be adjusted if it doesn't work.

4) Double 2, Single 1 - You are most likely going to have to double on Nicks and Cruz just because their athletic ability and speed is ridiculous, keep an eye on those 2 but you will need to go 1 on 1 with someone and the best receiver to go 1 on 1 is Manningham, but keep in mind you will need a speedster like McCourty or Arrington to do this, because Mario can run!

3) Do what you do against the run - The run defense has been the high point of many lows for the Patriots, so do not let Ahmad Bradshaw or Brandon Jacobs run all over you, do what you normally do too stop the run and do not over concentrate on the pass because Coughlin loves to run.

2) Let Eli Throw - Eli can throw the deep ball but he is still not the most accurate Quarterback, I am expecting the Patriots to give up scores and yards but if you force Eli to throw, he will give you the opportunity to come up with an interception or 2 and ultimately I feel this is the kind of game that is going to come down to a turnover. But make sure you have his targets covered or they will burn you, make Eli throw a few stupid passes because he will if you have his targets covered.

1) Vince Wilfork must be like Bruce Willis in "Die Hard" - Be relentless, get bloody, hit hard and take your enemy down and play out of your mind like you did against the Ravens. Vince single handedly could have won the AFC Championship for the Pats, let Vince run over the GIants O-Line and be like a monster truck crushing cars. Let him be like Denzel Washington in "Man on Fire" and all his other movies and whoop everyones butt! Vince and the others on the D-Line must control the G-Men offensive front and of course it never hurts to give Eli a few wacks!

FROM ALL OF US HERE AT MA SPORTS WEB.COM GO PATRIOTS KICK THE GIANTS BUTT AND BRING HOME THE TROPHY!!!!

How a "terrible" won the AFC Championship

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-25T12:48:41-05:00

BY: Jess Dempsey

All year, NFL “analysts”, and I use the term lightly because they often give their opinions and truly aren’t analyzing much, have been referring to the New England Patriots defense with a slew of less-than-flattering adjectives (“terrible”, “untalented”, and “slow” being among those). But, when it has really mattered, last week against the Broncos, and this week versus the Ravens, the Patriot’s defense showed up, and they showed up in a big way.

Integral, key plays by linebacker Brandon Spikes and cornerback Sterling Moore helped prevent a win for the Baltimore Ravens. Spikes intercepted Ravens’ QB Joe Flacco to turn the momentum back to the Patriots in the fourth quarter. Although Brady would negate that play with an interception of his own, Spikes’ interception lit up the crowd and took precious time off the clock. Another key play maker for the Patriots was Sterling Moore. Moore stripped Baltimore receiver Lee Evans of the ball in the end zone at the last second, preventing what most in the stadium thought was a sure touchdown. The entire place erupted in cheers for the backup cornerback from SMU.

” It was just a split-second decision and I’m glad it worked out,” Moore said. “We do that drill everyday in practice, but it was the first time I had to use it in a game, and I just took what I learned from practice into the game.”

You can’t talk about the Patriots’ defense without giving major props to tackle Vince Wilfork, who earned shouts of “MVP! MVP!” as his smiling face was shown on the Jumbotron at Gillette Stadium after the win. Wilfork had six tackles, three for a loss, including a key play with little more than three minutes remaining in the third quarter where he dropped Ray Rice for a three-yard loss.

Wilfork said that despite what many said, he “never lost faith in [our] defense.”

Some will say that Cundiff lost it for the Ravens, missing a 32-yard field goal at the end that would have sent the game into overtime. But, without such a stellar showing by the Patriots’ defense, the Ravens wouldn’t even have needed a field goal because they would have been 7-14 points ahead.

Bottom Line: The Patriots defense is an athletic, talented crew, and if they play in the Super Bowl like they’ve played the last two games, they will present quite a problem to Eli Manning and the red-hot Giants.

Pro Football Chick will be reporting LIVE from Indianapolis at the Super Bowl. Be sure to follow me on Twitter @JessDempNFL to get updates!

Super Bowl 46

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-24T11:24:00-05:00

Defensive Line

Backfield (Defensive)

Q.B.

WR/TE

Running Backs

Special Teams

2/3 Overall1/2

Throw out the regular season records, I hate saying this but the Giants remain the hottest team in the NFL!
By: Tom Nappi

Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz are the counter for Gronk, Hernandez and Welker. The Giants are one of the only offenses that can match the talent of the Patriots offense. The Patriots defense has gotten substantially better as the season goes on and it was great to finally see a Pats defensive victory over the Ravens on a day when Brady even said "I Sucked Today, but the defense won the game for us".

The Giants defense is playing remarkable and the G-Men pass rush has more than enough talent to put pressure on Brady. I am a Massachusetts native and Patriots fan but I pick games from an unbiased perspective and overall the Giants are the hottest team there is right now so I do give the Giants the edge in this Super Bowl but obviously you can never count out the Patriots, there is always a chance Brady plays flawless and Pats come out on top in the end, but at the same time as much as I hate to admit it, Eli Manning walked the Walk and truly is an elite Q.B.

Also let's face it Pats won 10 in a row against numerous scrubs big wins as of late - Jets, Broncos, Broncos, Ravens

Giants have won 5 in a row - Jets, Cowboys, Falcons, Packers, 49ers, to beat those 5 teams in 5 weeks straight is ridiculously impressive!

Packers (2010) - 6 in a row - Giants, Bears, Eagles, Falcons, Bears, Steelers

Saints (2009) - 3 in a row, all playoffs Cardinals, Vikings, Colts

Steelers (2008) - 4 in a row, Browns, Chargers, Ravens, Cardinals

I will stick with my prediction from last week in my final 4 Power Rankings
Giants - 37 Patriots - 30 (P.S. I hope I am wrong!)

Hear More this Thursday 8pm-10pm!

Tim Thomas declines White House Invite

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-24T11:03:40-05:00

Bruins goalie Tim Thomas declined the White House invitation to be honored by the President for Winning the Stanley cup and issued the following statement:

"Thomas has issued the following statement: "I believe the Federal government has grown out of control, threatening the Rights, Liberties, and Property of the People. This is being done at the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial level. This is in direct opposition to the Constitution and the Founding Fathers vision for the Federal government. Because I believe this, today I exercised my right as a Free Citizen, and did not visit the White House. This was not about politics or party, as in my opinion both parties are responsible for the situation we are in as a country. This was about a choice I had to make as an INDIVIDUAL."

Tom Nappi's opinion: I will keep this short and sweet, regardless of my political views it is up to Tim Thomas if he want's to go or not, I think he should've sucked it up and went because it would avoid controversy plus seeing inside the oval office would probably be cool stuff but I respect his decision to decide not to show up, it was not a mandatory team meeting and people are taking this way to far, if he does not want to go, big deal, he is a NHL player, it matters what he does on the Ice and how he acts as a person, just because he declines the White House invitation because he does not agree with the government should not affect his character, he was sticking up for his personal views and every man has that right.

My Personal Thoughts on Joe Paterno

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-21T22:54:59-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

According to CBS Joe Paterno died hours ago but according to Fox and ESPN, Joe-Pa is in critical condition due to lung cancer, which was confirmed by his son Scott Paterno. Some will remember Joe Paterno as one of the greatest coaches in NCAA Football history and perhaps he was, but too think that his career and life should be honored because of that is ludicrous! Joe Paterno or otherwise known as Joe-Pa by the Penn Staties, is a man who was one of the many in that twisted place called Happy Valley, Pennsylvania too cover up countless rapes and abuse to little children by former Penn-State defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky. If you read the grand jury report which you can find online: http://www.freep.com/assets/freep/pdf/C4181508116.PDF you will see that the allegations against Sandusky date back more than 20 years, and you will also find that there were countless cover-ups or people keeping their mouth shut for years, while little children in Jerry Sandusky's "Second Mile Charity" were getting abused and raped.

If you do not know the story by now, you probably live under a rock but the basis of the story is Mike McQueary who was with the team in 2002 witnessed Jerry Sandusky having anal sex with a little boy in the locker room showers, he told Joe Paterno who told the athletic director Tim Curley who pretty much did nothing with the information. Sandusky was no longer with the team around the time of McQueary's witness to the incident but still reserved an office on campus for years after and was still bringing children from the "Second Mile Charity" around campus and more than likely doing unspeakable things. Allegations would come out throughout the years, dating all the way back to the late 70's and be ignored by all figures of authority including local police who stuck 1 investigator on a child abuse case involving multiple children!

The reason McQueary's allegations went no further than they did sooner was because everyone from Penn State staff and higher-ups, town officials, local police, school teachers at the elementary school across the street covered the entire thing up and one of those people who took the situation no further to seek justice for the children who were victimized was perhaps the highest figure of all in Happy Valley, 61 year veteran football coach Joe Paterno! The only reason Jerry Sandusky was not revealed or held accountable for his actions sooner is because the entire community of Happy Valley, Pennsylvania is corrupted by their football program. Besides a good portion of Penn State Students who are logical it seems a large number of the authority figures, locals or employees in the Happy Valley-Penn State community are corrupt and need a serious mental check, the fact they even continued their Football season and were entered into a bowl game, MAKES ME SICK! You may argue well that program brings a lot of money into Pennsylvania, well first off that's why town officials are more than likely corrupted by the football team but most importantly is it worth letting an alleged child rapist run wild and free and not be held accountable for his actions? I repeat, the whole Happy Valley community is corrupt and needs a reality check! (Side Note: Factor out Penn State Students with any comment I make, referring more to authority figures and town locals when questioning the mentality of Happy Valley and Good Luck with your new job Bill O' Brien, your going to need it!)

I will always view Joe Paterno as a coward, he was the most important and more than likely highest authority figure because of his contributions at Penn State and did the bare minimum too help the children that were being victimized by that monster Jerry Sandusky. As much as I love Football, a human life is far more important than anything so as Joe Paterno nears the final days of his life, dig deep into your soul and morality and then tell me how he should really be remembered and if you think there is a chance Sandusky may be innocent, go to you tube and watch the damn interview he did with Bob Costas, and if you still think so after watching the interview he may be innocent, check yourself into a mental institution!

*KEEP IN MIND THIS ARTICLE IS A PERSONAL OPINION AND DOES NOT REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK*

Read More for Craig D'Alessandro's take on Joe Paterno

Sports News Feb 20th!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-21T00:31:05-05:00

On WMRC (1490 am, Milford) Last Night The Celtics fell to 5 and 9 on the Season losing to the Phoenix Suns 79-71, Ray Allen had 14 points but Marcin Gorat dropped 24 for the Suns to improve Phoenix to 6 and 9 on the season.

The Boston Bruins take on the 1st place New York Rangers this Saturday at 1pm, If the Bruins win they will be 1st place in the Eastern Conference.

WMRC’s Friday night High School basketball game, came out of the Milford future League, the hockomock. Franklin defeated Mansfield 54-49, Mansfield took a 1 point lead in the 4th quarter, but Sam Bohmiller lit up the score board dropping 11 points in the 4th quarter, 18 during the game in the Franklin victory to improve the Panthers to 7 and 3 on the season, Mansfield drops to 6 and 4. Listen to the game right now, after the Sports Buzz of course in the WMRC media center on wmrcdailynews.com

In other action Wachusett gave Milford their 2nd straight loss as they defeat the Scarlet Hawks 64-50. Milford now 8 and 3 on the season.

Nipmuc defeated Hopedale in overtime and handed the Blue Raiders their 2nd straight loss, final score was 48-42. Hopedale drops to 7 and 5, while Nipmuc improves to 5 and 6.

Holliston defeated Ashton in a tri-valley thriller 62-61, Millis took down Bellingham 55-37, Blackstone-Milleville wins 2nd straight taking down Douglas 59-55.

And in other Mid-Wach A Action Friday night Algonquin buried Shrewsbury 51-39.

Girls Basketball: Hopedale over Nipmuc 56-40, Shrewsbury over Algonquin 46-28, Wachusett over Milford 49-33, Franklin over Mansfield 54-41, Franklin Girls now 10 and 0 on the season

TVL action Ashland downs Holliston 45-35, Bellingham over Millis 57-54 and Medway crushes Westwood 59-29.

Boys Ice Hockey: The Hockomock Champs Franklin Panthers bury Foxboro 12-0.

This Sunday a couple big NFL games to determine who will play in the Super Bowl on February 5th. The New York Football Giants take on the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship at 6:30pm and the New England Patriots welcome the Baltimore Ravens to Gillette at 3pm in the AFC Championship. Brandon Spikes expected to play for the Patriots as well as most others on the injury report.

Jorge Rivera get's 20th Win and retires

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-21T00:10:18-05:00

Milford Native Jorge Rivera defeats Eric Schafer in yesterdays UFC Bout

Schafer looks tired and compromised as Rivera continues to post on his head and smash him right rights. Schafer finally turtles up, and Herb Dean warns him to fight back. Schafer stays turtled along the fence, and takes punches until the bout is halted. Jorge Rivera, in what he has announced as his retirement bout, is the winner by knockout at 1:31 of the second round.

Jorge announced his retirement from the Ultimate Fighting Championship prior to the fight finishing his career 20 wins, 9 losses and 0 draws. 14 TKO’s, 2 submissions, 4 decisions and 5 Knocks outs for Milford native Jorge El Conquistador Rivera in an excellent career with the UFC.

In the Main event Jim Miller choked out Melvin Guilliard early in the 1st round.

High School Basketball

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-17T11:09:38-05:00

VS
Boys Basketball: Hopedale High (7-3) VS Blackstone-Milleville Regional (2-9)
WEDNESDAY 7:00PM LIVE ON www.masportsweb.com

Hopedale JR/SR High School (7-4)
Win @ Marian 67-48
Win @ Tahanto Regional 88-46
Win VS Bromfield 59-46
Win VS Tahanto Regional 90-65
Loss VS Arlington Catholic 67-38
Loss VS Windham 63-53
Win VS Innovation Academy 50-12
Win @ Sutton 56-38
Win VS Douglas 80-62
Loss VS Whitinsville Christian 85-63
Wed @ Blackstone-Milleville L 56-70
Fri @ Nipmuc Regional 7:00pm

Blackstone-Milleville Regional H.S. (3-9)
Loss VS St. Bernard's C.C. 43-75
Loss @ Whitinsville Christian 22-62
Win VS North Smithfield, RI 56-51
Loss @ Northbridge 56-50
Loss @ Uxbridge 52-32
Win VS Bellingham 53-44
Loss VS Milford 42-74
Loss VS Batlett 71-95
Loss VS Nipmuc Regional 56-61
Loss @ Sutton 43-34
Loss VS Grafton Memorial 58-37
Wed VS Hopedale W 70-56
Fri VS Douglas 7:00pm

Team
Hopedale 13-23-8-12 - 56
BMR 21-15-15-19 - 70

NFL FINAL 4 Who ya got?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-07T15:41:00-05:00

It is time for Final 4 action. I was pretty pumped I went 3 and 1 in picks last week, I don't think anyone saw the 49ers beating the Saints however and if you say otherwise you are lying. Now that Brady and Eli are the best Qb's left in the playoffs, the Pats have a great shot at the Super Bowl title, but do they have the best shot? Read below to find out.

4) S.F. 49ers - I am not counting out the 49ers against the Giants this week especially considering the way they played against the Saints last week. Alex Smith looked really good, the best he has ever looked (fact not opinion), but I am convinced the Saints are the NFC version of the Patriots, great offense, shaky at best defense. The 49ers have a chance to beat the G-Men but Eli is arguably playing better than anybody right now and the Giants offense looks unstoppable.

3) Baltimore Ravens - The Ravens defense is good in fact one of the best but they are substantially older and the way the Patriots offense is playing is ridiculous and they look unstoppable. I do not think the Ravens matchup well against the 3 headed monster in Gronk, Hernandez and Welker. Ravens have a legit shot to win the game if they get a couple of turn overs and if we find out the miraculous way the Pats defense played last week against the Broncos is a fluke, but I expect Pats to head to Indy.

2) New England Patriots - I hate to do it but I cannot say the Patriots or anyone else for that matter is playing hotter than the Giants right now. I do expect a Pats-Giants rematch in the Super Bowl although I may not pick that way on the Sports Blast because I need to come back in picks but if the Patriots even do half of what they did defensively against Flacco next week, hello Indianapolis!

1) New York Giants - They crush the Falcons and then the G-Men roll over everyones Super Bowl favorite Green Bay in extraordinary fashion shutting down Rodgers and all his weapons. Eli looks to be playing better than he ever has in his career and has a legit shot to surpass his brother Peyton in Super Bowl titles this year.

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP
Patriots - 27 Baltimore - 17

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP
Giants - 24 49ers - 17

Un-biased Super Bowl prediction

New York Giants - 37 New England Patriots - 30

Grades for the eliminated!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-11T15:21:03-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

Here is the grades I give the teams eliminated from Super Bowl contention and why!

We are down to the final 8 in the playoffs, 22 teams are on vacation and this article is to show how they did this season overall. I will rank the other 8 teams as the playoffs proceed, obviously you can't rank the others until they win or go home.

Grade Scale:
A+ = Awesome,
A = Pretty Awesome,
A- = Sweet Season,
B+ = Not too shabby,
B = Not half bad,
B- = Pretty Good,
C+ = Future looks bright,
C = ehhh ok,
C- = Needs improvement,
D+ = Need a lot of improvement,
D = Disappointment,
D- = Just about a failure,
F= Failure and completely awful

NFC EAST
New York Giants - They made it to the Super Bowl Win or Lose = A+

Philadelphia Eagles (8-8) - They spend massive amounts of money on defense such as the most notable signing CB Namdi Asomugha. They have Vick at QB, who was beat up and terrible most of the year, McCoy at Rb and Maclin and DeSean Jackson at WR. The Eagles were my Super Bowl favorite heading into the year and failed miserably finishing the season .500. No excuse for missing the playoffs.
GRADE - F

Dallas Cowboys (8-8) - Any year the Cowboys finish .500 with the talent they have on both sides of the ball is a failure, especially since they lost the last game of the season to the Giants to miss the playoffs.
GRADE - F

Washington Redskins (5-11) - They started off the year nice but finished as just about everyone expected, no surprises here. However they have spent way too much money for constant failure.
GRADE - D-

NFC North
Green Bay Packers (16-2) - Packers were the overall favorite this year after winning 15 straight, but were shocked by the Chiefs in week 16, then they were beat by the Giants who have a habit of upsetting the elite. The Packers should have beat the Giants with home field advantage and should be a Super Bowl contender but there is always next year. BTW I told you Giants would win this game, DON'T FORGET WHERE YOU HEARD IT FIRST, however any time you have the roster Packers have, a shortened post season is a big negative! Packers must improve their defense.
Grade - B+

Detroit Lions (10-7) - The Lions made the playoffs but clearly did not have the defense to contain unbelievably good offenses such as the Saints and at times struggled offensively. They certainly fu-filled expectations this year and should be a good team for years to come with the amount of young talent on the roster, next year they will have to play more disciplined.
Grade = B

Chicago Bears (8-8) - Cutler went down, a once good season went to hell as Caleb Hanie sucked. Next year I am sure the Bears will look into a back up. The defense was solid and the play of the O-Line was much improved but they finished 8 and 8.
Grade = C-

Minnesota Vikings (3-13) - Donovan McNabb = Fail. The Vikings were o.k. when McNabb was not playing but had a very rough season finishing 3 and 13.
Grade = F

NFC South
New Orleans Saints (14-4) - Another tough playoff loss for the Saints as Alex Smith shocked the world beating Drew Brees in an offensive bout 36-32. The Saints had the talent to go a lot further than they did this year but simply could not take the next step for the 2nd year in a row. Good season by the Saints, but the big easy only has a limited number of years left with Brees being an elite QB, so they must win soon. Saints must step up the defense next year!
Grade - B

Atlanta Falcons (10-7) - 3rd year in a row the Falcons were one and done in the playoffs, they were a Super Bowl favorite to start the season in the NFC with the addition of Julio Jones but ended up in the end as the Falcons typically do, losers!
Grade = D-

Carolina Panthers (6-10) - The expectations were not so high in Carolina and there was no reason for them to be but Cam Newton took the Panthers on his back to 6 wins, and the Panthers were competitive in nearly every game. The Panthers will get better and better as they surround Newton with weapons.
Grade = B+

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12) - Bucs were expected to be a competitor for a wild card spot after they had a nice season last year but instead they were a competitor for the number 1 draft pick, Freeman fell into his sophomore slump and 2011 was a disaster for the Bucs.
Grade = F

NFC West
S.F. 49ers - Excellent season by a team that unexpectadly made the playoffs, I still am shocked Jim Harbaugh was able to get a 49ers team that went 4-12 last year into the NFC Championship, turn around of the year!
Grade - A+

Arizona Cardinals (8-8) - Kevin Kolb surprisingly failed, while John Skelton looked good, Cardinals were not expected to do much this year but in a what used to be weak before Jim Hardbaugh came to the 49ers. Cards have a lot of talent and should be a little better next year
Grade = C-

Seattle Seahawks (7-9) - I did not expect much more than what the Seahawks brought to the table, a couple impressive upset and competitive in most games, this is a team that should get better however as they looked good at the end of the season.
Grade = C-

St. Louis Rams (2-14) - What the hell happened to Sam Bradford and the Rams as a whole? After being competitive last year and showing signs of Rams on the rise, you would expect much better than 2 wins!
Grade = F

AFC East
New England Patriots - They made it to the Super Bowl with a questionable defense, Win or Lose = A+

New York Jets (8-8) - This is the grade I could not wait to give, Rex Ryan talks, talks, talks but he could not even get the Jets into the post season this year. Oh yeah and Sanchez has not improved what so ever and could be the main hold back for the Jets, besides their cocky attitudes and bad team chemistry.
Grade = F

Miami Dolphins (6-10) - Did not really expect much, overall the Dolphins downgraded their roster this year. They did get better as the season went on however and should continue to get more competitive as long as they make some upgrades.
Grade = C-

Buffalo Bills (6-10) - Bills start off really good and even beat the Patriots once, Fitzpatrick signs a long term contract and they fall apart with injuries, Stevie Johnson antics on the field and their lack of talent showed in the end.
Grade = D

AFC North
Baltimore Ravens - They made it to the AFC championship to lose by a field goal, great season by a 1960's looking team that plays ugly football but hey they win big games! However they had some losses to bad teams and it was coaching that cost them the game tying field goal, regardless of what the down clock said, they left a time out on the table so they get a slightly less than perfect grade.
Grade - A-

Pittsburgh Steelers (12-5) - Great season for the Steelers, but they lose to Tebow in the first round because of failure to change defensive scheme at anytime. Regardless of the injuries the Steelers had, you have to win against the Broncos as long as Big Ben can play.
Grade = D-

Cincinnati Bengals (9-7) - They beat 8 teams with below .500 records this year but their schedule is not their fault, they shockingly made the playoffs and although they lost to the Texans in the first round for the Bengals to make the playoffs with their roster and the loss of Carson Palmer is quite impressive.
Grade = A

Cleveland Browns (4-12) - Peyton Hillis showed to be a whiny baby uncompetitive loser this year and the whole Browns season pretty much evolved around the failure of Hillis. The Browns have a lack of talent, especially offensively and you should not expect much for years to come.
Grade = D-

AFC South
Houston Texans (11-7) - Matt Schaub goes down midseason, 2nd string Matt Linehart goes down but yet T.J. Yates the 3rd string QB steps in and they are able to win the division, the first round of the playoffs and give the Ravens a challenge, that is an overall successful year under the circumstances. When Schaub returns next year look out! Great job with the defense Wade Phillips (wish the Pats had him as their defensive coordinator!)
Grade - A

Tennessee Titans (9-7) - Exceeded my hopes this year, being a competitive team and just barely missing the playoffs. Hasselbeck played pretty well and the Titans have some good momentum heading into next year.
Grade - A-

Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11) - I at least expected the Jags to be competitive and they simply were not at all, another terrible season for the Jags and I don't see the rain stopping anytime soon in Jag Town. This was the year with Peyton Manning out for the Jags to step up.
Grade - D-

Indianapolis Colts (2-14) - O.K. even with Peyton Manning out look at the Colts roster and tell me if they should have enough loses to get the 1st draft pick in 2012. Ridiculous season and the Colts need to wipe out the entire ownership group and whoever has anything to do with scouting and finding back up QB's. We watched an entire team fail this year because 1 guy was out, regardless of Manning being out the collapse of the Colts this year means the Colts were poorly assembled and are not well coached.
Grade - F

AFC West
Denver Broncos (9-9) - Grade Pending, but the fact that Tebow beat the Steelers in the first round of the playoffs is unreal, so they will get an A. Year one goes to Felger, if you listen to the Sports Hub you will know what I am talking about. Tebow sucked against the Patriots but he single handedly turned the Broncos season around and got them past the Steelers, quite impressive but have no clue what to expect from Tebow next year, he must get better at passing, but year one goes to Tebow.
Grade - A

S.D. Chargers (8-8) - NORV TURNER SUCKS AND SO DOES PETER KING. Way to pick this A-hole team to win the Super Bowl, all the talent in the world and they cannot get over 8 wins, pitiful!
Grade - F

Oakland Raiders (8-8) - Raiders were competitive but uphold their reputation as the most undisciplined team in football. Also with Al Davis passing away who knows what the future of the Raiders is.
Grade - C-

Kansas City Cheifs (7-9) - Cassel went down, collapse insued, Romeo Crennel took over as head coach and restored life in Chief town, look out next year as Crennel is the permanent head coach. NICE MOVE BY THE CHIEFS!
Grade - C+

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The God Squad: Christianity, Faith and Religion in the NFL

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-11T15:06:44-05:00

By: Jess Dempsey

Christian. Religious. NFL. If we were playing word association, you’d probably be thinking about Tim Tebow (QB – Broncos) right now. And although the Broncos fourth-quarter miracle-maker quarterback is probably the most outspoken about his faith, you would be hard pressed to watch an NFL game where at least one player does not point to the sky or take a knee after a touchdown to thank God. Christianity is very well represented in the National Football League. What gives? Is the profession conducive to inspiring faith among players? Do players convert each other in the locker room? Is it the abundance of NFL players that hail from the Bible Belt? Or, is God himself rewarding faith with success? I suppose how you answer that question would depend on your own personal beliefs. But, you have to think – why are there so many Christians in the NFL?
Statistics about religion in the NFL are hard to come by. I don’t know every player to call them up and ask about their faith, and many players choose to keep such matters private. Understandable, but for the purposes of this article, then, we’ll have to rely on the players who are outspoken about their religious preferences. You know about Tim Tebow. There’s also Ray Lewis, star linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, who was featured on the cover of a 2006 issue of Sports Illustrated in a story about his Christian faith. Retired Quarterback Kurt Warner (Rams, Giants, Cardinals) was and is an outspoken evangelical Christian. Former corner and return specialist Deion Sanders is another well-known name who counts Jesus as his personal savior. Drew Brees, who only recently broke Dan Marino’s NFL single-season passing record, is also a devout Christian. One player who constantly, it seems, tweets about God and his faith is Cardinals wide receiver Chansi Stuckey. On his Twitter account, Stuckey describes himself as a Christ Ambassador first, Arizona Cardinal second. Matt Hasslebeck (Titans) and Chad Ochocinco (Patriots) also voice their faith via social media outlets. Beloved former Coach and current analyst (and all-around nice guy) Tony Dungy is very outspoken about his faith. As is Steelers star Troy Polamalu. There are hundreds more. Take the time to follow your favorite athlete on Facebook and Twitter, and pay attention to their posts. Most are thanking God after a great game (and praying after a loss.)
There are some who criticize the proud displays of faith, especially those performed on the football field. While a Heisman-winning Quarterback at Florida, Tebow frequently had white Bible verses etched into his eye black. In 2010, a rule known informally as the “Tebow Rule” was instituted by the NCAA that prohibited messages on eye paint. While messages on eye black have been banned by the NFL for a long time, it reasons that unless the display of faith is violent, perverse, offensive or otherwise undermines the sportsmanlike candor or play desired by the NFL, expressions of faith should be allowed in the league. This applies to not only Christians, but Buddhists, Muslims and those of other faiths as well.
Back to our friend Tim Tebow. What he may lack in finesse, he surely makes up for in leadership ability. His coaches love him, his teammates love him, and work harder for him – and the fans, well – his jersey sales speak volumes. The expression of faith should not add to, nor take away from, a player’s talent, integrity and leadership. Do people love Tebow because of his faith? Well, some may. But suffice it to say, most people who love Tebow, love his heart. If that heart is influenced by faith in God, who is to have a problem with that?
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Why I Don't Bet: NFL Playoff Rankings 2

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-09T08:08:03-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

Well if you read my article, I was wrong about just about everything once again proving why the NFL is the best league on earth and the playoffs are the most fascinating.

Here is what I said in my last article that was completely False because I am willing to admit my faults:

I ranked Denver 12th in the playoff rankings last week and said this: "Tim Tebow has been revealed for what he truly is, an average Running Back at the Q.B. position, there is no way I can see the Broncos beating the Steelers in the 1st Round therefore they are ranked last."

Clearly that statement was False as Tim Tebow threw for 316 yards and had 2 touchdowns including a 80 yard game winning TD pass in the opening seconds of over time too Demaryius Thomas.

I ranked Houston 11th in the playoff rankings and said this: "The Texans have a good shot to upset the Bengals in the first round but after that, not to much of a chance at anything with T.J. Yates as their starting QB because Schaub is down, but look out next year."

I gave the Texans the benefit of the doubt against the Bengals but T.J. Yates is better than I thought and the Texans defense gives them a legitimate shot to beat the Ravens next Sunday if Flacco plays bad.

To Sum up from last week, if you want to see what else I said read the damn article it's 4 down from this one but I was half right about the Giants but I did say "They are too much of a shaky team to beat good opponents" This is kind of false, the Giants have a shot to beat the Packers next week, especially if Eli plays like he did against the Falcons and Jason Pierre-Paul is his usual self, I am picking Packers but upset alert is officially in affect on this one. The Bengals I was less than half right on but shame on me for crediting a team that is now 0 and 8 against opponents above .500, Bengals cannot beat good teams and will not be even close to a contender next year, this year was a fluke, they beat a bunch of tomato cans and made the playoffs. I think Andy Dalton will eventually be a good QB but the Bengals have a lot of show and tell to do next year in order to make me think differently.

Games This Week (My Picks are in Bold):
Sat 4:30pm New Orleans Saints @ S.F. 49ers
Sat 8:00pm Denver Broncos @ New England Patriots
Sun 1:00pm Houston Texans @ Baltimore Ravens
Sun 4:30pm New York Giants @ Green Bay Packers

Without further or do here is playoff week 2 Power Rankings of the Final 8, by the way do not take my advice into consideration while betting, there is a reason I do not bet anymore except on Super Bowl squares, I am damn good at those!!!

(#) - Last Week's ranking

8-(5) S.F. 49ers (13-3) - The 49ers have a shot to beat the Saints next week with there amazing defense, but with the way Drew Brees is playing and the Saints are playing overall, don't count on it, then again remember I am wrong a lot, but so is Peter King!!

7-(12) Denver Broncos (9-8) - The Broncos proved how wrong I could be, I know Mendenhall was out and Ben was not 100% but hey that's football and the Broncos won fair and square. Tim Tebow showed balls this game, pure brass balls as he threw 3-4 passes over 50 yards, 2 of them for touchdowns and showed he can do more than run and throw short slant routes. The dude can throw the long ball and with the Patriots past 2 years of one and done, Tim Tebow has a shot to beat them! I am picking Pats, but Tebow has a shot!

6-(11) Houston Texans (11-6) - The Texans proved that their defense is good enough to do it without Schaub. I also have a huge respect for T.J. Yates, the 3rd stringer looked pretty damn good against an average Bengals defense. If Flacco has a bad day Sunday and the Texans are able to produce a couple turnovers, do not count them out.

5-(8) New York Giants (10-7) - The Giants have the offense and the defense to upset the Packers and shock the world, they did it to the Patriots in 2007 and they have the skill set to upset the overall Super Bowl favorite this year as well. The Packers have been playing below average lately and with the way this season has gone, who knows what to expect in this matchup of 2 high powered offenses and 2 of the top 5 QB's this season. Yes I said it Eli is a top 5 QB, I know it sucks!

4-(4) Baltimore Ravens (12-4) - The Ravens have a shot to be upset by the Texans this week, I still pick Ravens to win, but Yates is looking good stepping in for Schaub and the Texans defense is outstanding. Big credit goes to Wade Phillips, expect him to be a head coach somewhere once again next season.

3-(2) New Orleans Saints (14-3) - The Saints are playing outstanding and completely trashed the Lions last week, the reason I move them below the Patriots is because I feel the 49ers have a better shot to beat the Saints than the Broncos do to beat the Patriots, it's that simple but I am picking Saints over 49ers this week.

2-(3) New England Patriots (13-3) - Patriots if you let me down against the Broncos and go one and done against this team, you are a disgrace. Losing to Giants, Ravens and Jets back to back to back in the playoffs is forgivable if you end Tebowmania, if you don't I am just about done with you.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (15-1) - I had a hard time ranking the Packers number 1 this week with the upset bound Giants coming to town, but until someone beats Aaron Rodgers besides a fluky Kyle Orton and the Chiefs in a pointless game, they stay here and are still my Super Bowl favorites this year!
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NFL Blackout Rule: Antiquated and Anti-Fan?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-07T13:39:20-05:00

By: Jessica Dempsey

The NFL Blackout Rule, which has been in effect since 1973 is decidedly anti-fan, and despite the rule’s intentions to drive fans into the stadiums and generate revenue, recent research conducted by Yale Professor Subrata Sen has concluded that television viewership actually dwarfs all other sources of team revenue. Meaning, the rule is no longer accomplishing its original goals.

Professor Sen and co-author William Putsis estimated the rule’s effect on individual revenues in their paper “Should NFL Blackouts Be Banned?” which was published in Applied Economics. The NFL Blackout Rule bars the local broadcast of games that aren’t sold out at least 72 hours prior to game time, leaving many teams’ fans in the dark.

“This is an outdated rule…that affects fans of teams like Tampa Bay and Cincinnati…but the Blackout Rule hasn’t gotten fans to buy more tickets,” argues ProFootballChick contributor Darran Davis.

In fact, in tough economic times, with ticket prices soaring, the policy does nothing but leave a bad taste in many fans’ mouths. Within the last month, legislation has been proposed and a petition filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking to reverse the rule.

Professor Sen, who has studied the economic implications of NFL blackouts, states that “when [the rule] was imposed in the 1970s, its rationale was supported by the fact that non-television revenue contributed more than two-thirds of each team’s revenue.”

But, as stated in the beginning of this article, that is no longer the case. In the paper, authors Sen and Putsis calculated that blackouts increase a team’s game-day revenues by approximately $400,000 on average. However, by estimating the cost per television viewer and the intrinsic value that consumers place on being able to view the game on television, they found that the value to fans watching the game on television is much higher than the revenue gained from the imposition of blackouts.

NFL fan Sean Davey questions the rule, saying:
“It comes down to ticket prices and the cost of bringing people to games. Why spend $400 plus on tickets, in addition to parking, food and beverages, when you can watch the game from home or at a bar – especially if the team is not producing on the field? You would think that the league would want to eliminate the Blackout Rule as it would promote the team to the local market – and may even lead to selling some extra tickets. Those who are already at the stadium aren’t going to leave because the team is now on local television. They are at the game because they enjoy the experience, but not all fans have the ability (physical, monetary or otherwise) to attend games …”

This rule essentially denies fans who are unable (for whatever reason) to attend games in person the ability to cheer for their team. Loyalty should be rewarded, not punished. In the end, these teams may be losing fans, which, in the long run, will cost them a lot more than $400,000. However, as fan Jess Millward stated, “In markets where blackouts occur, they can’t give away tickets!” This is true, and as Millward accurately noted, in Florida, the Bucs are secondary to the Gators, in an environment that favors college football over the NFL.

Wherever you stand on the issue, what is clear to everyone is that the rule is certainly antiquated in the digital age and will hopefully be reversed by the FCC soon.

Who is Victor Cruz?

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-16T13:34:00-05:00

By: Jessica Dempsey

Who is Victor Cruz? Besides an adept salsa dancer, as we found out after his 44-yard reception for a touchdown in the Giants’ win over the Cowboys on Monday Night Football, Cruz is a former UMass Minuteman who may be the saving grace of the Giants’ season. Prior to this season, Cruz was an overlooked bench rider, but this season has been an integral part of the Giants, playing in all 16 games, receiving 82 passes for 1,536 yards and nine touchdowns. In the Giants’ last stand Monday night against the Dallas Cowboys, Cruz caught 6 passes for 178 yards and scored one touchdown that helped the Giants toward their 31-14 victory, clinching the NFC East title and a coveted spot in the playoffs.

Coach Tom Coughlin said that his new star started to show his brilliance once given an opportunity to play:

“He was willing and had the ability and put himself in positions where he could take full advantage – he just started to grow and develop … [multiple times Cruz has] given us a spark or put us in a position to win games – it is truly amazing.”

What’s even more incredible is, like many outstanding players these days, Victor Cruz did not play his college ball at Ohio State or Florida or Texas. He played at the University of Massachusetts Amherst for the Minutemen, a Division 1 team that, starting in 2012, will play in the Mid-American Conference, becoming bowl eligible in 2013. Despite not starting a game until his junior year, he finished his career at UMass with 131 catches for nearly 2,000 yards and 11 touchdowns, ranking him 4th all-time in receptions at UMass. Cruz went undrafted in the 2010 NFL Draft, but was later signed by the New York Giants. Good move, blue.

At the start of the 2010 preseason, Cruz garnered media attention by catching 6 passes for 145 yards and 3 touchdowns in a game against the New York Jets. At the end of the preseason, he led the NFL with 297 receiving yards. A hamstring injury would put him on the IR for the remainder of the season. Fans were left wanting more, having had a small taste of what the young wide receiver could accomplish.

Unlike Cam Newton, who was followed throughout his college career and into the NFL, Victor Cruz’s path is more like that of New England Patriots’ underdog success story Danny Woodhead. Skilled, but relatively unnoticed until given a chance – and it appears we have only scratched the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Cruz’s skills.

What role do you think Cruz will play in the Giants’ quest for another Super Bowl ring?

Jorge Rivera at MSEN!

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-04T22:14:25-05:00

Tom Nappi, Craig D'Alessandro and Mark Mazzuchelli interviewed UFC Fighter Jorge Rivera. Jorge Rivera will fight Eric Schafer on Friday January 20th on FX. Listen to the Sports Blast to find out more information and to hear our interview with the Milford, MA native Jorge Rivera!

NFL Post Season Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-02T10:44:54-05:00

ITS THAT TIME OF YEAR! Down to 12 teams and we are ready for Wild Card Weekend Next week with a great slate of NFL games. BTW what a last week of the season, every game but 3 games meant something! With that being said the games this week our listed below along with the 12 teams ranked 12 to 1, 1 being the team with the best chance to bring home the Vince Lombardi Trophy!

Sat Jan 7th 4:30pm/et
Cincinnati Bengals @ Houston Texans

Sat Jan 7th 8:00pm/et
Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints

Sun Jan 8th 1:00pm/et
Atlanta Falcons @ New York Giants

Sun Jan 8th 4:00pm/et
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Denver Broncos

Byes: New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, S.F. 49ers, Green Bay Packers

POST SEASON POWER RANKINGS

12) Denver Broncos (8-8) - Tim Tebow has been revealed for what he truly is, an average Running Back at the Q.B. position, their is no way I can see the Broncos beating the Steelers in the 1st Round therefore they are ranked last.

11) Houston Texans (10-6) - The Texans have a good shot to upset the Bengals in the first round but after that, not to much of a chance at anything with T.J. Yates as their starting QB because Schaub is down, but look out next year.

10) Detroit Lions (10-6) - If the Saints do not make the Lions one and done this week and they pull what they did last year against the Seahawks, I am going to start calling Drew Brees the Lebron of the NFL, this should be an easy Saints win, Stafford and the gang will keep it close, but don't expect much.

9) Cincinnati Bengals (9-7) - The Bengals have an interesting scenario, they have a Matt Schaubless Texans squad in the first round then could end up with a defenseless Patriots, the Bengals could upset their way to the AFC Championship, but if they make it to New England, I am picking Pats! A great season by the most surprising team of the year in the rookie QB led Bengals.

8) New York Giants (9-7) - I may even pick the Giants to beat the Falcons in the first round, but the Giants are way too much of a shaky team against good opponents to rank them any higher than this.

7) Atlanta Falcons (10-6) - The Falcons have had a questionable year, they started terrible and really turned things arounds especially once Julio Jones got back, beating the Giants will be no easy task however as I think this is an even matchup and both these teams match up well against each other on both sides of the ball.

6) Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) - No one knows how healthy Big Ben actually is and Rashard Mendenhall may have a torn ACL, this could cost the Steelers dearly, I expect them to get past Denver, but to beat New England again this year with those offensive injuries would really take a lot of luck or New England sleeping defensively.

5) S.F. 49ers (13-3) - The 49ers have arguably the best defense in the league at this current time, but with an unreliable Alex Smith and a very good but stoppable Frank Gore, if they meet a team like the Saints or Giants next round, it could be upset city in San Francisco. Also one other relevant point to make look at the teams that have won Super Bowls the past few years, Packers, Saints, Steelers, Colts, all have great QB's, Alex Smith is not in that category.

4) Baltimore Ravens (12-4) - The success of the Ravens will completely bank on what kind of Joe Flacco plays, will it be the kind that throws countless interceptions and miss fires 50% of his passes or will he be sharp and hit his targets, defensively they are fine, but offensively they have many questions with Flacco as their Q.B.

3) New England Patriots (13-3) - The Patriots have the best offense in the A.F.C. and could have an easy road to the Super Bowl with the 1 seed and home field locked up and the fact they may play the Bengals in the first round, but if the Patriots struggle defensively like they have all season and they end up with the Steelers next week, an upset is very possible.

2) New Orleans Saints (13-3) - In my opinion, the Saints are the only team besides the Patriots that could keep up scoring wise with the Packers, Drew Brees has played outstanding this year and I will not rule the Saints out of a matchup with Green Bay in the NFC championship pending they don't lose to someone ridiculous as they did in the playoffs last year to the 8 and 8 Seahawks.

1) Green Bay Packers (15-1) - Matt Flynn threw 6 touchdowns last week and the Green Bay Packer B Squad beat the Detroit Lions who were playing for a higher seed, I can't wait to see what the A Squad does in the playoffs, repeat more than likely in Cheesehead City!

There you have it folks, these will change next week, enjoy the NFL and read Craig's article below this one on what the Red Sox need to do as we are only 2 months or so away from Spring Training!

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10 More Steps for the Sox to reclaim the A.L. East

Detinata@msn.com — 2012-01-02T10:37:45-05:00

Andrew Bailey to Red Sox: 10 More Steps to Reclaiming AL East Throne for Boston
Craig D’Alessandro

Andrew Bailey was finally dealt this off-season, exactly where everyone thought he would end up going. The Boston Red Sox dealt Josh Reddick and a pair of prospects Wednesday to the Oakland Athletics to land Bailey, along with outfielder Ryan Sweeney. The deal presumably solidifies the team's need for a closer since Jonathan Papelbon signed with the Phillies and helps the Sox’s plan to move Daniel Bard or Alfredo Aceves into the starting rotation for 2012.

The deal is a step forward for Boston. Sweeney and Reddick are more or less a wash, so they improved their bullpen substantially at the cost of only two mid-level prospects. They are now closer to winning the AL East in 2012 than they were Wednesday morning.

Still, there is work to be done in order for THIS Red Sox team to be a contender. Unless the Tampa Bay Rays throw up their hands and just slot Dan Johnson in at first base, and unless the New York Yankees stubbornly stick with their current starting rotation going forward, Boston is not the favorite in the AL East right now. They need to shore up their starting rotation and (probably) bolster their outfield, finding a partner for Sweeney in right field. Here are 10 things they must do in order to head to Florida in February as divisional favorites.

1. Fix Carl Crawford’s Plate Approach

Call it trying to do too much or simply reading pitches less well than he once did, but Carl Crawford's problems in 2011 trace back primarily to terrible plate discipline. He swung at drastically more pitches outside the strike zone in 2011 than he ever had before: 37.9 percent of all bad balls, up from a career average of 31.5 percent. Therefore, he posted the highest strikeout rate of his career (nearly 20 percent of all plate appearances), and his worst walk rate since 2005. In laymen’s terms, when ever the Red Sox didn’t need an out and Carl Crawford was at the plate, Crawford got out, whether it was a ground out, fly out, or strike out, Crawford always found a way to stop a rally in his first year in Boston.

It shouldn't be terribly hard to fix this. When Crawford chose pitches well, he could still drive them. Neither his bat nor his feet seemed markedly slower last season than they had been before. He simply couldn't find the right mental approach at home plate. Assuming the Sox can remedy that, Crawford should bounce back and make theirs, by an even wider margin, the league's best lineup.

2. Sign Edwin Jackson

Matt Garza is available, and Matt Garza is better than Edwin Jackson. He's maybe five or 10 percent better, though, and he's likely to cost 15 or 20 percent more than Jackson. The Chicago Cubs will not deal Garza for fewer than two long-term assets, and the Red Sox do not need to drain their farm system depth further just for that marginal advantage.

Instead, Ben Cherington should spend some money (hardly a scarce resource in Boston) on Jackson. He's underrated, really, a young guy with a top-flight fastball who makes life Hell for right-handed batters and who has pretty good control. He would slot in nicely in Boston.

Lets Look at Matt Garza and Edwin Jackson during the 2011 season:
Matt Garza went 10-10 with a 3.32 ERA in 31 games, 198 innings pitched with a Strikeout per 9 innings of 9
Edwin Jackson went 12-9 with a 3.79 ERA in 31 games, 199.2 innings pitched with a Strikeout per 9 innings of 6.7

Pretty similar if you ask me. The Key difference here is, Garza is going to take a lot more to get then Jackson and your basically getting the same result, why deplete your farm system even more then it already is when you can sign basically the same pitcher in free agency.

3. Trade for Marlon Byrd

The Garza deal would cost Boston more than it would be worth. This trade, however, could be the right one on which to pull the trigger, for both the Sox and their departed GM, Theo Epstein.

Your current right fielders signed for this season are Ryan Sweeny, Mike Aviles, Darnell McDonald and Ryan Kalish….not very exciting right?

Byrd could be part of an otherwise lopsided trade for an Epstein/Jason McLeod cheese ball, which would take care of compensation for Epstein's defection to the Cubs. Alternatively, the Sox could simply package two players to whom Epstein took a special shine and receive Byrd straight up.

Either way, the player they would receive would be a constant. Byrd will be paid $6.5 million in 2012, hardly a hardship, and would be a virtually ideal platoon partner with Ryan Sweeney.

He is a center fielder by trade, which would make him more than adequate to cover the cavern that is right field at Fenway Park, and he could rack up a bunch of doubles with his line-drive, pull-conscious right-handed swing. As a bonus, Byrd could be insurance against injury to Jacoby Ellsbury.

4. For Whichever reliever they try to convert into a starter, follow the Alex Ogando model

The Red Sox are going to attempt to turn one of if not both of their most effective relievers into a starter this upcoming Spring Training. If its Alfredo Aceves, it won’t be that much of a change, he has always been a starter and has handled it well, it was just the fact he worked so well out of the bullpen in recent years that the Red Sox decided to keep him there.

Daniel Bard on the other hand is a different story. While he had also been a starter while in college and in the minors, it never really worked out for him, at one time posting an ERA over 10 in a season, it was after this (and the discovery of a 100 MPH fastball) that the Red Sox decided to convert him into a reliever, where he has excelled over the past 3 seasons.

Daniel Bard has, in theory, three pitches. It's the effectiveness of his third pitch that seems to have captivated the Red Sox. They think they can make him an effective starter by simply asking him to pace himself and throw his decent changeup more often.

That's not the right model for this scenario, though. Instead, Boston should simply ask Bard to reel in his fastball a tad, and be the same two-pitch pitcher he has been the past three years. He just needs to do it every fifth day, to 25 batters, instead of every other day to five. The model, in fact, is Alexi Ogando.

Last season with Texas, Ogando moved from exclusive relief work to exclusive starting work without a change in repertoire at all. He threw his fastball three percent more often in 2011 than in 2010; his slider three percent less; and his changeup exactly as often, 4.8 percent of the time. If Bard follows that regimen, he has a chance to be a solid mid-rotation starter for the Sox, and if he does that, the Sox become AL East favorites.

5. Sign Darren Oliver

With the addition of Bailey, the Red Sox seem to have a strong overall bullpen. Mark Melancon now slides into a setup role. Bobby Jenks doesn't slide into anything, but he'll probably plop into more of a seventh-inning slot, pun intended. Alfredo Aceves is a terrific right-handed long man; Andrew Miller fills that role well from the left side.

Still, the relief corps is missing something. They need a lefty specialist, someone to get key outs against the likes of Curtis Granderson and Robinson Cano. Darren Oliver is perfectly suited to that gig. Boston can bid a bit more for those services than other teams, so this is a no-brainer.

6. Take Control of the Clubhouse

Clubhouse factors are overstated. Teams get far too much credit for their cohesion when they win, and when collapses happen, those same squads get far too much blame for lacking focus.

That said, the Red Sox do have a lot of established veterans on the roster, and sometimes, getting those players to watch video, work on what's not working and stay in premium shape can be tough. Baseball is about day-to-day adjustments, and too many veterans get lazy about those things.

That's why Bobby Valentine was the team's choice to take over as manager. He's a man of boundless energy, the kind that rubs off on everyone he encounters. The Red Sox need his constant kinesis to keep themselves on the top of their game. If he can set the right tone for the team in the spring, they will be a more disciplined bunch come autumn.

7. Platoon to Kingdom Come

The Red Sox have depth, but too many American League teams fail to make the optimum use of their benches. Boston is in a position to be better.

In right field, Ryan Sweeney and some right-handed bat (Marlon Byrd, perhaps?) would make a terrific platoon. So would Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Kelly Shoppach behind the plate (At least untill Ryan Lavarnway is ready full time.)

The most intriguing platoon possibility, though, might be at shortstop. Both Marco Scutaro and Jose Iglesias bat right-handed, but whereas Scutaro is primarily an on-base threat for the bottom of the batting order, Iglesias is a prospect with elite defensive skills.

That creates an interesting opportunity. When ground-ball mavens Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz start, the Sox could put the glove wizard Iglesias at shortstop and save some runs. When Josh Beckett takes the mound, Scutaro could provide offensive punch without costing the club. This is the Ideal scenerio, however with Iglesias in my mind about a year away still (his offence is still terrible) I expect a lot of Nick Punto this season.

8. Rebuild the Training Staff

The 2011 Red Sox did lack pitching depth, but realistically, it never should have gotten as bad as it did for them. They had Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Clay Buchholz, John Lackey, Andrew Miller, Tim Wakefield and (after the trade deadline) Erik Bedard on hand.

Yet, those players had an awful time staying healthy down the stretch. Lackey's and Matsuzaka's problems were arm and workload-related, and likely inevitable.

In the cases of Beckett, Lester and Buchholz, though, the Sox lost starts that should have gone to their top hurlers, because they all recovered on a much slower schedule than expected. That failure traces back to the training staff. If the Red Sox can find a group of athletic trainers who will keep ankle and back injuries to the lowest level of impact possible, they will get much better.

9. Put together the Right Lineup

The Red Sox struggled to find the right lineup throughout 2011. The slow emergence of Jacoby Ellsbury as a superstar and the failure of Carl Crawford to find his usual rhythm made it hard to know where people belonged.

In 2012, more questions might pop up, but this is my ideal lineup set for the team come Opening Day:

v. RHP v. LHP
Ellsbury Ellsbury
Pedroia Pedroia
Gonzalez Youkilis
Youkilis Gonzalez
Ortiz Ortiz
Crawford Byrd
Saltalamacchia Crawford
Sweeney Shoppach
Scutaro Scutaro

With those personnel in that arrangement, Boston should lead the AL in runs scored again in 2012.

10. Find pitching at the Trading Deadline

It's clear that the current market for starting pitching favors sellers. C.J. Wilson got more than he was worth. The Padres and A's extracted more from trading partners for Mat Latos, Trevor Cahill and Gio Gonzalez than anyone expected they would. Yu Darvish cost $51.7 million, and that was just to start talking.

Edwin Jackson is a great option, but even if they add him, Boston might need an extra arm down the stretch. The way to get it, though, would not be to continue paying through the nose and adding pitching at the current top-dollar prices.

Instead, if the Sox wait for July, they should be able to add Wandy Rodriguez or a comparable hurler at a much more reasonable cost.

Week 17 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-27T00:07:56-05:00

Here are the Tom Nappi Week 17 NFL Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week

Ok so last week of the NFL season this Sunday and some teams are not playing for real, these power rankings are to inform you of what to expect in week 17 for wagering or fantasy purposes for the stupid leagues that have week 17 championships and let you know who the best and worst teams are in the league!

Teams still alive for Playoffs (NFC) - Dallas, New York Giants,

Teams In Playoffs (NFC) - Green Bay, New Orleans, San Francisco, Detroit, Atlanta

Teams still alive for Playoffs (AFC) - Jets, Bengals, Titans, Oakland, Chargers, Denver

Teams In Playoffs (AFC) - New England, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Houston

32-(31) St. Louis Rams (2-13) - May be in the hunt for Andrew Luck next year since the Colts decided to win the past 2 weeks.

31-(32) Indianapolis Colts (2-13) - Well Colts won 2 weeks in a row that is quite impressive and about time, they battle the Jaguars next week, question is will they tank the game to retain the first pick in the 2012 NFL draft.

30-(30) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-11) - The Bucs went from an almost playoff contender last year to losing 9 in a row last year, expect the Bucs to play in week 17 and try to ruin the Falcons shot at a home playoff game.

29-(26) Minnesota Vikings (3-12) - Adrian Peterson is done for the season with a torn ACL and MCL in his knee, trust me that injury kills. With Christian Ponder also out with a concussion prepare for the Vikings to play a bunch of backups and take an easy in their last game of the year against the Bears.

28-(28) Cleveland Browns (4-11) - Peyton Hillis is back, but that does not change a thing, expect the Browns to play their starters against division rival Steelers next week just to try to upset them and keep them from a bye week in the playoffs to piss them off.

27-(27) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-11) - Jags will only beat the Colts in week 17 if the Colts throw the game to keep the number 1 pick in the draft and knowing Bill Polian, that is pretty likely.

26-(22) Chicago Bears (7-8) - No longer a threat to anyone after being eliminated from the playoffs and playing the lowly Vikings next week, expect starters to play at least a half however, but don't bank on it, the Bears could be going for draft position.

25-(24) Washington Redskins (5-10) - Redskins will most likely give their all just to beat division rival Philadelphia Eagles next week, Eagles were eliminated from playoff contention since the Giants and Cowboys won their games.

24-(20) Philadelphia Eagles (7-8) - The Dream team is officially done and are no threat to anyone as they play the Redskins next week. Expect starters to play so Andy Reid can at least finish 8 and 8 in a thin attempt for him to keep his job.

23-(17) Arizona Cardinals (7-8) - Nice run at the end of the season, but too little to late, they have a pointless game with the Seahawks next week, expect starters to play most of the game for pride and because it is a hated division rival. Look out for the Cardinals next year!

22-(16) Seattle Seahawks (7-8) - Same scenario as the Cardinals, they will play for pride and to try to beat a division rivals in the Arizona Cardinals but to little to late for the Hawks. Look out for Pete Carroll and the gang next year however, Marshawn Lynch is stupid good.

21-(23) Carolina Panthers (6-9) - Expect the Panthers to throw Cam Newton and everything else they have out next week against the Saints, as they will play their hearts out to finish 7-9 and try to upset Saints playoff bye week hopes. Panthers will be a contender next year!

20-(29) Buffalo Bills (6-9) - Bills will play hard next week to finish 7-9 and see what improvements they need to make next year, they will also try to stop the Patriots from having home field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. Bills will throw their whole arsenal on the field.

19-(18) Kansas City Chiefs (6-9) - Chiefs are the only team in the AFC west eliminated from playoff contention but they will not hold back one bit as they can officially end Tebow mania by beating the Broncos to keep them from the playoffs. Cheifs will be much better next year and should keep Romeo Crennel as the head coach.

18-(25) Miami Dolphins (5-10) - If you think for one second the Dolphins will sit anyone with a chance to keep the Jets from the playoffs.....Think Again!

17-(21) Oakland Raiders (8-7) - A do or die matchup with the Chargers next week, the Raiders will also need the Broncos to lose to the Chiefs, in either case they do still have a small shot at the playoffs as long as they get a win.

16-(14) S.D. Chargers (7-8) - The Chargers need to beat the Raiders this week to have any hope at making the playoffs, they also need the Broncos to lose, if those 2 things happen the Chargers who lost 6 in a row at one point this season will win the AFC West.

15-(19) Tennessee Titans (8-7) - The Titans need to beat the Texans this week who are pretty much playing for nothing as they have already clinched a playoff spot but have a small shot at clinching a bye or home field in the 1st round if the Ravens or Steelers lose. For the Titans to make the playoffs, they also need the Jets to lose to the Dolphins and they will need Oakland to lose to the Chargers.

14-(11) New York Jets (8-7) - After a stinker last week against the Giants, the Jets need to beat the Dolphins which will not be easy and will need the Titans to lose to the Texans.

13-(15) Cincinnati Bengals (9-6) The Bengals control their own destiny after hanging on to beat the Cardinals last week. Bengals still must beat the Ravens who are playing to clinch the North and a 1st round bye, if the Bengals lose however they will still get in if either the Jets or Titans lose.

12-(8) Dallas Cowboys (8-7) - Last weeks loss did not matter either way the Cowboys must beat the Giants next week to make the playoffs win or go home.

11-(13) New York Giants (8-7) - Eli Manning looked extremely good against the Jets last week but win or go home against the Cowboys in Week 17.

10-(9) Denver Broncos (8-7) - Pretty simple concept beat the Chiefs or go home, they own no tiebreakers in the West and if they lose the winner of the Chargers-Raiders game wins the AFC West. Although Eliminated Chiefs will bring it! Tim Tebow can't absolutely suck as he did against the Buffalo Bills last week.

9-(12) Detroit Lions (10-5) - The Lions clinched their first playoff birth since 1999 after crushing the Chargers last week and will not be fighting for much this week against the Packers 2nd team because they will not know who they are playing in the first round until the results of the Saints and 49ers game is in, but they will most likely play to win because the Lions hate the Packers and a win gives them a better chance to meet up with Giants or Cowboys in the 1st round.

8-(10) Houston Texans (10-5) - Texans did win the AFC South and still have a shot at a first round bye if both the Ravens and Steelers somehow lose, but the Texans must beat the Titans who are fighting for a playoff spot and looked disgraceful offensively losing to the Colts last week. One and Done!

7-(6) Atlanta Falcons (9-6) - Falcons are in the playoffs and will most likely try to beat the Bucs to secure a 1st round game against an easy team, but may not try too much as a Lions win is expected against the Packers who are playing for absolutely nothing in week 17.

6-(7) S.F. 49ers (12-3) - The 49ers will bring it against the Rams next week but don't overestimate this game, division games are always upset bound. 49ers must win for a first round bye in the playoffs.

5-(4) New England Patriots (12-3) - The Patriots will be playing to win against the Bills next week because if they lose and the Steelers clinch the AFC north, the Pats will not have the #1 seed and with their awful defense home field is vital throughout the playoffs.

4-(5) Baltimore Ravens (11-4) - Flacco continues to look bad and the Ravens must beat a playoff hungry Bengals to clinch the AFC North and a bye week in the playoffs unless the Steelers somehow lose to the Browns next week. With the AFC as weak as it is, the Ravens do have a chance to head to the Super Bowl however.

3-(3) Pittsburgh Steelers (11-4) - If Steelers beat the Browns and the Ravens lose to the Bengals, The Steelers clinch home field advantage and a bye week in the playoffs, this scenario is very possible as Bengals are playing for playoff birth and the Browns suck. Big Ben should be back next week so expect the overall best team in the AFC in my unbiased opinion to play to win!

2-(2) New Orleans Saints (12-3) - Really starting to make the case to be ranked number 1 after they man-handeled the Falcons on Monday Night Football. Congratulations to Drew Brees for breaking the all time regular season passing yards record. The Saints will be playing for a win next week against a tough Panthers offense as they need the win to contend with the 49ers for a 1st round bye week in the playoffs and home field advantage in the NFC against everyone but the Packers.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (14-1) - They put a beating to the Bears on Sunday Night Football this week so they are playing for nothing and could bench all their starters if they choose, starting any Packer on your fantasy team this week for the ridiculously stupid fantasy leagues that have week 17 championships is risky. They may have the starters out for the first half because they would love to upset the Lions but will most likely bench most starters to play it safe. Packers are still my favorite for the Super Bowl. Mike McCarthy could be the next Vince Lombardi....If you say the last sentence of this paragraph, it rhymes!

Also tune into a vitally important edition of the Sports Blast this Thursday as we break down all playoff scenarios and pick what we think is going to happen!

Lastly Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at the Massachusetts Sports and Entertainment Network. Playoff Power Rankings will be posted after Week 17....Enjoy the Final Weeks of NFL This Season :/

Week 16 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-19T00:49:59-05:00

Here are the Tom Nappi Week 16 NFL Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week

Teams still alive for Playoffs (NFC) - Dallas, New York Giants, Detroit, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, Arizona....(We could actually have multiple teams in NFC west finish above .500

Teams In Playoffs (NFC) - Green Bay, New Orleans, San Francisco

Teams still alive for Playoffs (AFC) - Jets, Bengals, Titans, Oakland, Chargers, Kansas City, Denver

Teams In Playoffs (AFC) - New England, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Houston

32-(32) Indianapolis Colts (1-13) - Got a win against the Titans this week, but still awful. Seems like they wanted to win 1 to avoid embarrassment, I would be shocked if they do not lose out on purpose. #Pathetic

31-(31) St. Louis Rams (2-12) - What happened to Sam Bradford...falls from first to worst!

30-(30) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-10) - Another great rookie QB last year...terrible this year.

29-(26) Buffalo Bills (5-9) - Bills have fallen to the pathetic stage losing their 7th game in a row.

28-(29) Cleveland Browns (4-10) - Peyton Hillis is back and was heavily affective....but too little too late. #SeeyounextyearHillis

27-(23) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-10) - The Jags fall back to pathetic, getting slapped by the Falcons last Thursday.

26-(28) Minnesota Vikings (2-12) - Awful beating by the Saints but I do like Christian Ponder for the future.

25-(25) Miami Dolphins (5-9) - Look out for the Dolphins next year, they have won 5 of their last 7 and should be good next year.

24-(24) Washington Redskins (5-9) - Soon as the Skins get a good QB they will be elite, excellent defense, coaching and running game #DitchGrossman

23-(22) Carolina Panthers (5-9) - I had to move them down because they are officially out of the hunt for the playoffs but look out for Cam Newton and the Panthers next year

22-(17) Chicago Bears (7-7) - Jay Cutler breaks the heart of Bears fans everywhere as Hanie has another awful game against the Seahawks, the Bears now have some serious competition for a wild card spot and have no offensive production whatsoever. Tough break with Cutler and Forte going down and losing WR Sam Herd for buying way too many drugs.

21-(16) Oakland Raiders (7-7) - The Raiders lost to their identical twin Detroit Lions today 28-27, both hard hitting, cocky, undisciplined, under achieving teams. Raiders still in the hunt but I will be shocked if they are smart enough to keep themselves from causing stupid penalties to blow games.

20-(21) Philadelphia Eagles (6-8) - The Eagles are thanking the Lord Vick is back, because they now have a very small chance at either a NFC East title shot or even a smaller shot at the wild card. Eagles are finally starting to look like the so-called dream team again and are back in the playoff picture.

19-(14) Tennessee Titans (7-7) - Did the Titans seriously lose to the formally known as winless Colts to just about blow their playoff hopes? #AnyGivenSunday

18-(27) Kansas City Chiefs (6-8) - The Chiefs beat the Packers, they deserve to be moved here, because if they can be the Packers they can beat anyone in the league. I think the Chiefs have found themselves their next coach in Romeo Crennel, they need some help to win the AFC West. Kyle Orton was a huge boost to the Chiefs offense, what the hell took so long to pull Palko out? #ToddHaleyFiring=Good Idea

17-(19) Arizona Cardinals (7-7) - One of the biggest games in Week 16 will be Cardinals-Bengals, both teams in the heat of their playoff races, Arizona is red hot winning their 4th straight and are now in the heat of a NFC Wild Card Spot.

16-(20) Seattle Seahawks (7-7) - Seahawks clobbered the Bears this week and are another team white hot that have worked their way back into the NFC Wild Card Race. Can Pete Carroll actually do it again? Marshawn Lynch is in beast mode at 1000+ rushing on the season #MarshawnLynchisabeast

15-(15) Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) - Bengals control their own destiny, if they win out, they are in the playoffs, if they lose one still may be in, but don't count on it with the Chargers and Broncos in the hunt. Arizona and Baltimore coming up so it will most likely not be easy.

14-(18) San Diego Chargers (7-7) - I hate the Chargers, they suck the entire 1st half of the year, now decide to win some games to get back in the wild card and AFC West Race, Chargers will need to win out and need either the Broncos, Bengals or Jets to lose games to have a shot at playoff contention. Chargers have Lions and Raiders left.

13-(11) New York Giants (7-7) - The Giants fall back to 2nd in the AFC East after somehow managing to lose to the Redskins. Giants continue to be one of the most inconsistent teams in football.

12-(13) Detroit Lions (9-5) - Lions would have to lose both remaining games to miss the playoffs, but with the Chargers and Packers left it may not be the easiest task. Lions beat their AFC twins this week the Oakland Raiders 28-27. Lions must play disciplined football to pull this off.

11-(10) New York Jets (8-6) - Jets got crushed by the Eagles sunday and are now in danger of missing the playoffs, the Jets will probably have to win out to make the playoffs and with the playoff hungry Giants and upset hungry Dolphins left, it is going to be a very hard task especially if Mark Sanchez keeps playing terrible.

10-(5) Houston Texans (10-4) - Texans have clinched the AFC South but I do not think they can handle elite teams in the playoffs without Schaub.

9-(7) Denver Broncos (8-6) - The Patriots revealed all the holes the Broncos defense has and gave a good example of how to shut down Tebow in the 2nd half, if the Broncos are to meet an elite offense the result of today's game will likely be similar. Remember the Broncos were 2-5? Broncos need to beat the Bills and likely Chiefs to make the playoffs....#Tebowmaniaisover

8-(12) Dallas Cowboys (8-6) Sometimes Romo Good, Sometimes Romo Awesome, Sometimes Romo Awful, this week he was great and the Cowboys control the NFC East destiny. Cowboys have must win division games with the Eagles and Giants left.

7-(8) San Francisco 49ers (11-3) - Great win against Steelers on Monday Night Football but I am still not convinced if they meet a high powered offense they will be able to stop them or keep pace, but the 49ers are a huge threat because of their defense in the playoffs.

6-(9) Atlanta Falcons (9-5) - Falcons are more than likely in the playoffs because they play the Bucs on the last week of the season and only need 1 more win and in. Falcons can also compete with the elite of the NFL, big game this week against the Saints.

5-(3) Baltimore Ravens (10-4) - A tough loss to the Chargers on Sunday Night Football as Flacco looked AWFUL in the 34-14 loss. Ravens have clinched a playoff spot but need the Steelers to lose to have a shot at the AFC North. The Ravens offense can be very questionable if Flacco turns the ball over to often.

4-(6) New England Patriots (11-3) - Patriots have clinched the AFC east, defense looks very questionable still, but the Patriots showed they have an affective Pass Rush and can shut down the playoff contenders with their high powered offense. A huge loss to the Patriots in the win against the Broncos this week as DE Andre Carter will be out for the season with a Quad Injury.

3-(4) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4) - Worse record than the Patriots after losing to the 49ers on Monday Night Football, but their defense is a lot better and their schedule was a lot harder.

2-(2) New Orleans Saints (11-3) - Brees continues to look stupidly good as the Saints crush the Vikings 42-20, look out Packers.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (13-1) - O.K. O.K. Rodgers finally had a bad day, give the guy a break. This is the Packers first loss in 19 games. The last loss for the Packers before today was in 2010 on Sunday December 19th to the Patriots... I think there is just something about this week with the Packers. The Chiefs defense played well, but don't expect stopping Rodgers to be a habbit.

Upset To Remember (December 18th 2011)
Green Bay Packers - 14 Kansas City Chiefs - 19

Other Games:
TNF Falcons - 41 Jaguars - 14
SNF Cowboys - 31 Bucs - 15
Miami - 30 Bills - 23
Seahawks - 38 Bears - 14
Titans - 13 Colts - 27
Packers - 14 Chiefs - 19
Bengals - 20 Rams - 13
Saints - 42 Vikings - 20
Redskins - 23 Giants - 10
Panthers - 28 Texans - 13
Lions - 28 Raiders - 27
Patriots - 41 Broncos - 23
Jets - 19 Eagles - 45
Browns - 17 Cardinals - 20 O.T.
SNF: Ravens - 14 Chargers - 34
MNF: Steelers @ 49ers

Sports News 12-16-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-16T17:26:00-05:00

Patrick Chung and Sebation Volmer were the only two players not at practice for the Patriots this afternoon 14 players were limited. The Patriots are gearing up to face Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos this sunday.

Prosecutors have dropped indecent assault and battery charges against Patriots WR/KR/CB Julian Edelman., Edelman was accused of groping a woman at a nightclub in late October, but prosecutors cite a lack of evidence.

Bears WR Sam Hurd was arrested Wednesday night in Chicago on federal drug charges.
According to authorities, Hurd attempted to purchase drugs from a supplier in North Texas. Court documents say he tried to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of mixture or substance containing cocaine. If convicted, Hurd faces up to 40 years in prison
.
The Celtics will be without Paul Peirce for Sundays Exibition game againts the Rapters, he has a bad heel, Rajon Rondo is Questionable. Doc Rivers and Danny Ainge are expected to talk publicly for the first time about Jeff Greens health issues, sources say that Green failed a stress test used to gauge how ones heart is working.

The Bruins defeated the Ottowa Senators last night 5-2. Adam McQuaid has been fined $2,500 for kneeing Ottawa's Nick Foligno in Wednesday's contest, but he won't be suspended.
The incident occurred late in the second period and it resulted in McQuaid being given a five-minute major and a game misconduct.

Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said Thursday that he believes the newly-acquired Mark Melancon is "capable of closing." but ESPN's Buster Olney reported that the Red Sox are still pursuing Athletics' closer Andrew Bailey among other relievers. Namley Ryan Madson. The Red Sox also signed Nick Punto to a two year deal.

Craig’s Top ten MVP picks not named Aaron Rogers

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-16T17:22:46-05:00

Craig’s Top ten MVP picks not named Aaron Rogers

10. Jimmy Graham Saints- In less than two years, Jimmy Graham has revolutionized the tight end position. True, the position had been trending toward the more athletic, pass-catching type of player for years. But Graham has taken that idea to a whole new level. If Calvin Johnson is a receiver in a tight end's body, then Jimmy Graham is a tight end in a receiver's body. 1,101 yards, 80, receptions, 8 touchdowns.

9. Tim Tebow- He's racked up 11 touchdowns and 1,290 yards on 198 attempts for a 48.5 completion percentage. His quarterback rating is an 83.9 for the season. That's middle of the road, folks. The only number that really matters in the Tebow for MVP argument is seven. That is how many wins, in eight games started, he's led them to. In the process, the Broncos have gone from predicted door mats of the AFC to a lock for the AFC West title. Talent and stats alone do not win MVP titles. Those things have to lead to wins. Tebow is a winner personified. For that, he deserves MVP consideration.
11 touchdowns, 1,290 yards, 48.5 completion percentage, 83.9 qbr, 7-1 as a starter.

8. LeSean McCoy Eagles- "It's hard to soar like an eagle when you're surrounded by turkeys." Such is the life of LeSean McCoy, the NFL's second-leading rusher. The Eagles have been dreadful this year. Despite high-priced free-agent signings and high expectations that earned them the nickname "The Dream Team," they won't make the playoffs. Clearly that has nothing to do with McCoy, who has definitely soared. He is the lone bright spot in this dismal season for the Eagles. 1,172 yards, 17 touchdowns, averages 90 yards a game. 0 fumbles

7. Rob Gronkowski Patriots- The only thing Rob Gronkowski does is score touchdowns. Actually, that is a complete exaggeration. He does much more. Tom Brady and Bill Belichick would both tell you that. .But as far as MVP consideration goes, his touchdown numbers are what puts him in the discussion.
16 touchdowns- 71 receptions- 1,088 yards

6. Maurice Jones-Drew - Even before Sunday's victory over Tampa Bay, MJD deserved to be in the MVP discussion. He is the NFL's leading rusher with 1,222 yards and is doing so on a team with a rookie quarterback and a passing game that is probably the worst in the NFL. He's scored seven rushing and three receiving touchdowns this year while averaging the highest yards-per-game average among running backs.
1,222 yards, 10 total touchdowns, 94 yards per game

5. Wes Welker- In 2011, Welker is having a career year. He is arguably the most complete receiver in the game. He may not have the most touchdowns, but he has already eclipsed his previous high with three games remaining. He will also easily beat his previous high in yards. He's averaging more yards per catch, and he already has 100 receptions for the year as well. Gronkowksi might get most of Brady's red-zone attention. But without Welker, the Patriots might never get to the red zone. He is the perfect fit for New England's system and knows how to find seams and openings in the defense that other receivers would miss.
100 receptions, 1339 yards, 9 touchdowns

4. Calvin Johnson- Johnson was unstoppable in the red zone early on in the season, . The tides have changed for Johnson and the Lions since then, though. The loss of Matthew Stafford's hand injury had the most impact of his lack of production since. But the biggest reason for Johnson's drop in production—he only has three touchdowns in his last eight games—is that defenses are putting two or three defenders on him on every play. Defenses are forcing Detroit to key on other receivers.
72 receptions, 1,121, 12 touchdowns, nine tds in 5 games

3. Eli Manning- The 2007 Super Bowl MVP should be in the discussion for the 2011 regular season MVP. He is having his best year as a pro. Manning's already thrown for more yards then ever before, and he will likely surpass his previous high in touchdowns. Plus, he's taking care of the ball. His interception numbers are way down from last year. Victor Cruz has been a revelation. But without Manning, Cruz would be just another unproven slot receiver on a bad team.
4,105 yards, 25 touchdowns, 12 ints, 95.5 qbr, 14 4th quarter touchdowns

2. Drew Brees- Dan Marino's record for passing yards in a single season will be shattered by Drew Brees this year. It's not a question of if—it's a question of when.
Touchdowns, 11 ints, 105.9 qbr, 336 ypg

1. Tom Brady- Saying Tom Brady is an MVP candidate is like saying its going to be cold during the winter.
4,273 yards, 33 touchdowns, 11 ints, 106 qbr, 328 ypg

*Obviously Aaron Rogers is your MVP this season, there is no one even close to his production, he has a 123 QBR, over 4,000 yards, and 39 touchdowns and will more then likely lead his team to just the Third ever undefeated Regular season, he is a freak of nature this season.

Tom Nappi's Top 10 MVP's of the 2011/2012 NFL Season

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-15T14:09:15-05:00

Tom Nappi's
Top 10 most valuable players so far this year, if these players were not around their teams would be lost!

10) Calvin Johnson - WR - Detroit Lions - Calvin is 4th in the NFL in receiving yards and without him the Lions would not be anywhere near a playoff contender, I know the Lions have a good defense but they have no running game with RB Jahvid Best on the I.R. and without Calvin making amazing touchdown catches or taking the top off the defense, they would be lucky to finish 6 and 10 this season.

9) Houston Texans Defense - Matt Schaub went down on November 13th against the Buccaneers and then backup Matt Leinart would go down a couple weeks later with an injury and T.J. Yates who is an average passer at best would take over, but the Texans defense has stepped up even more so and currently are the number one overall defense in the NFL. The Texans are 5-0 since Schaub went down and you can thank the defense for allowing the Texans to clinch the AFC South and keep the Texans as a Super Bowl contender this year. The Texans have only given up an average of 12.8 points to opponents in the last 5 games.

8) London Fletcher - LB - Washington Redskins - Fletcher leads the league with 134 tackles on the season and is one of the main threats in the struggling Redskins potent defense. The Redskins are ranked 10th defensively in the NFL. I also put him in here because defenses do not get enough credit and with awful Rex Grossman as QB its defensive players like London Fletcher that make the differences.

7) Maurice Jones Drew - RB - Jacksonville Jaguars - MJD is pretty much the only offensive threat the Jaguars have had in the last half of the season as Blaine Gabbert has struggled as of late. MJD leads the league in Rushing Yards with 1222 and is tied for 7th in touchdowns with Adrian Peterson and Ray Rice.

6) Wes Welker - WR - New England Patriots - Welker leads the league in receiving yards with 1339 yards and is 11th in touchdowns with 9 in the Patriots potent Brady-Welker-Gronkowski combo offense.

5) Cam Newton - QB - Carolina Panthers - The Panthers are 4 and 9 this year and there is 1 simple reason....Cam Newton who is an effective passer as well as a great rushing QB. Newton is 3rd in the league in touchdowns with 13 and is the only reason besides Steve Smith the depleted Panthers have 4 wins this year. An unbelievable rookie season by Newton.

4) Tom Brady - QB - New England Patriots - Brady is great as usual with a 106.0 passer rating. Brady is 2nd in passing touchdowns with 33 and 2nd in passing yards with 4,273 and although he has thrown 11 interceptions this year, with a defense as bad as the Patriots and only 1 effective receiver and the tight end combo, the Patriots would probably be 8 and 8 if Brady went down this year instead of a Super Bowl contender.

3) Drew Brees - QB - New Orleans Saints - Brees is 3rd in passer rating and besides Rodgers is one of the best at spreading the ball around. The Saints have faced numerous offensive injuries this year but Brees has overcome injuries with no problem. Brees is 1st in passing yards with 4,368 and 3rd in passing touchdowns. Brees also has a 105.9 passer rating this year. Brees is also an expert at helping the Saints keep the ball to keep their questionable defense off the field.

2) Rob Gronkowski - TE - New England Patriots - I am convinced that if it was not for Gronk the Patriots would have 5-8 losses right now, because the opposing defense would have no problem covering Welker or Hernandez, Gronk is a super natural human being that is so big it is nearly impossible to cover him. He is 2nd in the league in Touchdowns behind LeSean McCoy with 16 and has 71 receptions this year, he is a beast and is just about as valuable to the Patriots as Brady.

1) Aaron Rodgers - QB - Green Bay Packers - Is there really any debate about this? He spreads the ball around to his mostly no-name receivers but leads the league with a 123.3 passing rating, compared to the 106.0 passer rating by Brady, Rodgers is on a level of his own! Rodgers is 3rd in yards, 1st in passing touchdowns with 39 and is the primary reason the Packers are undefeated and will probably win the Super Bowl again this year!

Other Considerations:
Peyton Manning - Indianapolis Colts QB - I am sure you understand why looking at the Colts without him. (Sort of a joke....Sort of)

LeSean McCoy - Philadelphia Eagles, RB - 1,172 Rushing yards, 2nd in the league and 1st in touchdowns with 17.

Jarred Allen - Minnesota Vikings - DE - Leads the league in sacks with 17.5.

D'Qwell Jackson - Cleveland Browns - LB - 2nd in tackles with 125.

Kyle Arrington - New England Patriots - CB - tied with Eric Weddle of the Chargers and Charles Woodson of the Packers with 7 interceptions and is the only threat in the Patriots awful secondary.

Michael Turner - Atlanta Falcons - RB - 2nd in rushing yard with 1,068 and has kept the Falcons alive through Matt Ryan's struggles this season.

Ray Rice - Baltimore Ravens - RB - Flacco has been up and down this season but Ray Rice has been on fire and is probably the main reason in the Ravens questionable offense, the Ravens are on top in the AFC North.

Victor Cruz - New York Giants - WR - Injuries have riddled Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham this year and Cruz is one of the main reasons the Giants are on top in the AFC East, coming through as one of Eli's new favorite targets, Victor is 3rd in receiving yards.

Greg Jennings - Green Bay Packers - WR - Rodgers favorite target, tied for 4th in touchdowns with Welker.

Vincent Jackson - S.D. Chargers - WR - Before Jackson came back the Chargers were a mess offensively between Rivers having a questionable season and the Chargers having a struggling running game, since Jackson has come back he has helped the Chargers to playoff contention.

Laurent Robinson - Dallas Cowboys - WR - With injuries riddling Miles Austin and Dez Bryant being ineffective and Tony Romo being Tony Romo, Robinson is the last breath of hope for the Cowboys.

Steelers Defense, 49ers Defense and Ravens Defense - Obviously consider separately but these 3 defenses are the top 3 of the most important defensive statistic, points given up a game and with offensive struggles at points during the season for either of these teams, you need to credit their defenses.

OK FINE Tim Tebow - QB - Denver Broncos too, Broncos are 7 and 1 with the guy and lead the AFC West since the supernatural force known as Tim Tebow took over at QB.

Points A Game Surrendered
1) S.F. 49ers - 14.0
2) Pittsburgh Steelers - 15.2
3) Baltimore Ravens - 15.5
4) Houston Texans - 16.0

Fun Fact: Did you know as bad as the Patriots secondary is, they are ranked 14th behind the Bengals and Jets with an average of only 21.4 ppg given up.

Listen to the Sports Blast at 8pm tonight right here on MSEN Radio as we all break down our NFL MVP's so far this season!

10 Reasons Why 74% of People Don't Care About the NBA

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-12T18:57:26-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

Poles taken by ESPN and other major Sports Networks determined that 74% of Americans could not care less if the NBA Lockout ever ended. Since NBA is back, that number has probably increased after the nixing of a by the book trade that would have sent Chris Paul to the Lakers, Gasol to Houston, Luis Scola to the Hornets along with Kevin Martin, Goran Dragic and a 2012 First Round Draft Pick. This trade was completely fair, agreed by all three GM's and Dave Stern had no reason to nix it. But any how here is the top 10 reasons why the NBA is not well liked.

10) The Players Are Showboats - No one cares more about there music, acting or reality T.V. show careers than NBA players which is why all the big super starts would rather go to L.A., Miami, New York than New Jersey, Boston and New Orleans. Perfect example is Chris Paul wanting to go to the Clippers if he cannot go to the Lakers over a team with a championship shot such as the Celtics or Mavericks.

9) 5 Teams Own The League - Going into an NBA season it is well known that either the Lakers, Heat, Celtics, Mavericks or Spurs.

8) David Stern Nixing Trades for No Reason - This all started with the Paul to Lakers Trade and most recently David West to the Celtics for Jermaine O' Neil was allegedly nixed partly because of Stern. YOU CAN'T MAKE UP RULES AS YOU GO ALONG STERN, MAYBE NEXT TIME YOU CAN ADDRESS AN UNFAIR BALANCE DURING THE LOCKOUT!

7) Players Are Pampered Babies - NBA features the most pampered players ever and the majority of them are spoiled, rotten D bags who could not care less about team loyalty, winning a championship and care 100% money and their Hollywood status. Also why the NBA lockout lasted forever because unlike the NFL and MLB not all owners even make profit and could not give the players below 50-50.

6) Playoff System - A 82 game season and half of the teams make the playoffs and the playoffs last like 2 months, that is a 1/6th of a year...way too long!

5) Tall Guys Dominate - Basketball in general, but especially in the NBA is a league that caters to the tall guys 6'5 plus that can dunk in a cool way. Not a whole lot of hope for the short guys with players like Muggsy Bogues, Allen Iverson and Nate Robinson being an exception.

4) Super Teams - Way too many Super Teams as the Heat, Lakers and pretty soon Knicks, there needs to be a salary cap and Super Teams need to be taken out fairly not just by Stern saying NO to deals that do not go against the rule book. (Not that the NBA uses the Rule Book Anyway)

3) Showoffs - Way too many showoffs in the league who do not distribute the ball and shoot whenever they get it and most of the time miss. Cough Cough "Big Baby" thank god he's gone, will miss his hilarious facial expressions though!

2) NBA May Cheat - Refs betting on games to questionable calls in nearly every game, NBA is one of those leagues you could truly make up the rules.

1) Too many rules with "open interpretation" - Kind of goes a long with the potential cheating thing, but it seems like every little bit of contact is a foul, they need to let them play, College and High School Basketball has far less fouls and is twice as entertaining.

Lastly for all you NBA fans 12 things I Like About the NBA:

1) The Lottery is the best draft system in Sports not allowing teams to tank the season as the Colts have in the NFL.

2) The hot stove and drama makes for awesome talk radio, as a lot of big names get traded just about every season.

3) The late rounds of the playoffs usually features great Basketball.

4) Lebron still has not won a championship.

5) Dirk Nowitzki a great player who is not a showboat and plays to win!

6) The Celtics Leprechaun because I am part Irish

7) Glen Davis's Faces he makes directly into the camera

8) Watching Doc Rivers work his magic, great coach!

9) Something crazy usually happens like a player fighting fans or great player to player trash talk.

10) Shaq's press conferences, yes I know he is retired, I will miss those!

11) Tommy Heinsohn's homer commentary is great, can't wait to hear him yell at refs every Celtics Game.

12) The NBA dancers are usually pretty hot!

Week 15 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-12T11:31:06-05:00

Here are the Tom Nappi Week 15 NFL Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week
If the Team is not bold there is no shot in hell they will make the playoffs.
Power rankings are in order by teams that have best shot at the Super Bowl!
I will adjust this after Monday Night Football but notice the MNF matchup is pointless as it is between 2 awful teams!

Here is a pic of God's Favorite Tim Tebow who did it again in week 14, a last minute comeback against the Bears and the Broncos win 6th straight 13-10!

32-(32) Indianapolis Colts (0-13) - Awful, they continue to throw the season, shameful, awful, horrible.

31-(31) St. Louis Rams (2-11) - Why did Sam Bradford go from first to worst?

30-(25) Tampa Bay Bucs (4-9) - How the heck is it possible to give up 41 points to Jacksonville? The Bucs are terrible.

29-(26) Cleveland Browns (4-9) - Peyton Hillis one and done :( One great year and that could be it and the Browns are consistently awful.

28-(30) Minnesota Vikings (2-11) - They could have very well beat the Lions this week, if the refs saw the face mask on the last play of the game, they are looking better every week and I think Ponder will eventually be a good QB.

27-(18) Kansas City Chiefs (5-8) - Head Coach Todd Haley just got tanked after a beating by the Jets, the injury of Cassel wrecked the Chiefs already questionable season.

26-(23) Buffalo Bills (5-8) - Is it just me or are the Bills getting worse and worse every week? 37-10 beating by the Chargers this week.

25-(22) Miami Dolphins (4-9) - Dolphins took a tough loss this week to Philly but they have serious potential to upset the elite.

24-(28) Washington Redskins (4-9) - Most of the Redskins losses have been very competitive games, they have potential to upset playoff teams and you can never under prepare for the Redskins deadly pass rush.

23-(29) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-9) - They ran over the Bucs this week, so they have potential to end some seasons as bad as they have been. Maybe its the fact Jack Del Rio is gone!

22-(24) Carolina Panthers (4-9) - Don't every underestimate Cam Newton, he is by far rookie of the year, if Panthers ever get a defense to support him look out!

21-(27) Philadelphia Eagles (5-8) - Vick is back and so is some winning in Philly, they will not make the playoffs but they could upset playoff contenders. A nice 26-10 beating of the Dolphins this week.

20-(20) Seattle Seahawks (6-7) - MNF was a Seahawk Slaughter Fest 30-13 over the Rams.

19-(21) Arizona Cardinals (6-7) - They beat the 49ers this week 21-19. I love the wild wild NFC west, Cardinals could win out and grab a NFC wild card. Don't count on it though.

18-(19) S.D. Chargers (6-7) - I hate how the Chargers win in december and suck every other month, I think Tebow will hold them from the AFC West title this year however!

17-(17) Chicago Bears (7-6) - A major shot at the Wild Card in NFC took a major hit this week because of Marion Barber, who runs out of bounds with the lead and less than 2 minutes left honestly! Well the Denver Tim Tebow Divine Interventions got to the Bears this week.

16-(16) Oakland Raiders (7-6) - Probably the most undisciplined team in the NFL. Detroit, K.C. and Chargers left, with the way they have been playing, the Raiders are dead!

15-(15) Cincinnati Bengals (7-6) - Rams, Cardinals and Ravens to finish out the season, must win at least 2 of those games to stay in playoff contention after blowing a must win game against the Falcons this week.

14-(12) Tennessee Titans (7-6) - Still a shot at a Wild Card even though the division was clinched with the Jags and Colts coming up, Titans will have to win out the rest of the season.

13-(10) Detroit Lions (7-6) - Should have lost to the Vikings but a missed face mask call in the last play of the game, the Lions look undisciplined and the defense is playing not close to as good as the beginning of the season.

12-(11) Dallas Cowboys (7-6) - Blew an 11 point lead against the Giants on Sunday Night Football with 5:00+ left, the Giants are now right back in the race and own the tie-breaker against the Cowboys.

11-(10) New York Giants (7-6) - Giants saved their season by beating the Cowboys Sunday Night, but still will likely have to win out to grab a playoff spot. It has been a very inconsistent NFC East this year and the Giants are no exception.

10-(13) New York Jets (8-5) - Jets are in line at a AFC Wild Card spot as long as they win 2 of the next 3, as far as competing with elite teams such as the Ravens, Steelers and Patriots, it has yet to be seen if they are capable.

9-(9) Atlanta Falcons (8-5) Got the job done against Carolina now has Jacksonville, New Orleans and Tampa Bay coming up, should be in line for a NFC Wild Card spot and overall has a nice all around team with upset potential!

8-(5) S.F. 49ers (10-3) The proud winners of the NFC west, now I have to say the 49ers have an outstanding defense but there offense comes up short at times and I am not sure they have enough clutchability (made up my own word there) to go far into the playoffs.

7-(7) Denver Broncos (8-5) - Broncos have won 6 straight and if you watched the game this week against the Bears, the way the Broncos won was one of the rarest most flukey things I have ever seen and Tim Tebow I am now convinced has divine intervention on his side, this guy is nothing but a winner! He sucks at throwing and I cannot emphasize that enough but he has the power of the Lord!

6-(6) New England Patriots (10-3) - Another shaky win for the Patriots as they beat the Redskins 34-27, not only did they get torched by the awful Rex Grossman, but this week even their ground defense was awful, giving up 126 yards to Roy Helu. With this kind of defense, one and done, as I am still a huge believer in the fact defense wins championships! I CAN'T WAIT TO WATCH BRONCOS VS PATS THIS SUNDAY AT 4:15PM/ET!

5-(8) Houston Texans (10-3) - Schaub may be done, but the Texans are in the playoffs after clinching the South and even though T.J. Yates is there QB they got the job done the past 2 weeks against a tough Falcons and a tough Bengals team, Patriots take note this is how defense is played, only 29 points given up in the past 2 weeks by the Texans!

4- (4) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) - Beat up on the Browns and I hate to admit it but Big Ben is one tough S.O.B. coming back into the game after spraining his ankle on Thursday nights beating of the Browns.

3-(3) Baltimore Ravens (10-3) - Chargers, Browns and Bengals left, Chargers probably the toughest game left, but have a great shot to clinch the AFC North.

2-(2) New Orleans Saints (10-3) - Drew Brees is unstoppable. Vikings, Falcons, Carolina coming up, so the Saints are in great shape for the NFC South and a Bye Week. Prediction: Packers and Saints in NFC championship, Packers win 55-48.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (13-0) - Once again showed why they are the best and Rodgers is on a level of his own!

READ MORE CHECK OUT CRAIG's POWER RANKINGS!!!!!! THEY ARE ALMOST AS GOOD AS MINE!

MLB Winter Meetings!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-09T02:22:31-05:00

In the winter baseball meetings the Miami Marlins signed SS Jose Reyes to a 6 year $106 Million dollar deal.

The Miami Marlins have also signed Closer Heath Bell to a deal close to 3 years $27,000,000

The Miami Marlins also signed Pitcher Mark Buehrle to a 4 year $58,000,000 deal.

The Marlins are also in the running along with many other teams for 1B Prince Fielder

The Miami Marlins have not only changed there uniforms but apparently have raised there payroll signifgantly.

The Biggest signing of the Baseball winter meetings up to this point however is a 10 year deal close to $250 million dollers to Albert Pujols to send him to the Los Angeles Angels. The Marlins and Cardinals were also one of the teams in the running for Pujols, but in the end he will join the Angels in the AL West.

The Angels also signed starting pitcher C.J. Wilson. Wilson went 16 and 7 for the A.L. Champ Texas Rangers Last Year.

Also the average baseball salary has raised 2.7% to 3.1 Million Dollars for the 2012 season

Thursday Night Football: Pittsburgh Steelers - 14 Cleveland Browns - 3

Ben Roethlisberger left the game with a ankle injury in the 2nd quarter but came back into the game and threw for 280 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception overall in the Steelers win!

A deal that would have sent Chris Paul to the Lakers is nixed by NBA Commissioner Dave Stern as Hornets must find new owner before deal can be done!

Boston Bruins lose 2nd straight game as they fall to the Florida Panthers 2-0, after Tyler Seguin being suspended for Tuesdays loss to the Winnipeg Jets, is there cause for concern, keep it locked to MSEN Radio to find out!

Week 14 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-05T00:09:08-05:00

Here are the Tom Nappi Week 14 NFL Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week
If the Team is not bold there is no shot in hell they will make the playoffs.
Power rankings are in order by teams that have best shot at the Super Bowl!
I will adjust this after Monday Night Football but notice the MNF matchup is pointless as it is between 2 awful teams!

First here is my elimination table! The teams crossed out are done, the teams with the line next to them are on life support!

32-(32) Indianapolis Colts (0-12) - I am now convinced that they are trying to blow the season and get the number 1 draft pick, they did not even look like they tried defensively in this weeks loss to the Patriots...that is despicable and there should be a law against throwing the season!

31-(30) St. Louis Rams (2-10) - This is an example of a team that just simply sucks, at least they suck and can have some dignity COLTS!

30-(31) Minnesota Vikings (2-10) - They got Tim Tebowed in the 4th quarter this week in their last minute 35-32 loss to the Broncos.

29-(28) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-9) - They played the Chargers on Monday Night Football this week, very winnable game but man do they suck, so they lost....btw sorry to hear about the firing of Jack Del Rio last week.

28-(23) Washington Redskins (4-8) - A team that has no shot at the playoffs but can upset teams on life support!

27-(22) Philadelphia Eagles (4-8) - HAHAHAHA The So-called "DREAM TEAM" is pathetic....I do feel bad Andy Reid will probably lose his job.

26-(27) Cleveland Browns (4-8) - As you have heard before Cleveland fans....there is always next year!

25-(21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-8) - Tough loss to Carolina....Josh Freeman may be out for the season.

24-(29) Carolina Panthers (4-8) - No Playoffs this year but Carolina has a very bright future with Cam Newton as QB....Panthers fans get excited!

23-(18) Buffalo Bills (5-7) - 5 Losses in a row, perhaps Buffalo should have waited after the season to give Fitzpatrick a new deal. 68.8 Qb Rating in the Past 5 games, but hey the Bills defense has been horrible too giving up an average of 31.4 points in the past 5 games.

22-(24) Miami Dolphins (4-8) - Yes I ranked the Dolphins higher than the Bills because they are playing some awesome football as they have won 4 of their last 5! The Dolphins have also only allowed an average of 10.8 points defensively in their past 5 games.

21-(26) Arizona Cardinals (5-7) - A very impressive win over the Cowboys to keep there extremely small wild card hopes alive.....It won't happen.

20-(25) Seattle Seahawks (5-7) - A great win on Thursday Night Football to officially just about eliminate Philly from playoff hopes. Marshawn Lynch looks great! The Seahawks have quietly won 3 of their last 4!

19-(20) S.D. Chargers (5-7) -Even with a 6 game losing streak they are still in the race to win the very weak AFC West.

18-(19) Kansas City Chiefs (5-7) - Releasing Kyle Orton could come back to bite the Broncos, they have the Packers, Jets, Raiders and Broncos to finish out the season...Not a chance.

17-(16) Chicago Bears (7-5) - The Bears are so screwed without Cutler and now may be without Matt Forte who suffered a partially torn MCL in the Bears loss to the Chiefs.

16-(9) Oakland Raiders (7-5) - Probably the most undisciplined team in the NFL. They lost a must win game Sunday to the Dolphins, closing out the season they have Green Bay, Detroit, Kansas City and San Diego...OUCH!

15-(13) Cincinnati Bengals (7-5) - They have gone 7 and 5 in a schedule of fluff, I do not trust this young group of players to beat elite teams, but in the future they will! The Bengals have the Texans, Rams, Cardinals and Ravens to finish out the season, should be able to win three of those to skid in, but will be eliminated 1st round.

14-(11) New York Giants (6-6) - The Giants had a close game with the Packers this Sunday and looked great offensively but they have the Cowboys twice, Redskins and Jets to finish out the season. Dear Giants please knock out the damn Jets for good!

13-(12) New York Jets (7-5) - Jets control there own destiny but they have K.C., Philly, Giants and Dolphins in the foot race to a wild card spot.

12-(17) Tennessee Titans (7-5) - Arguably have the easiest road to a wild card spot besides playing the Saints next week they have Colts, Jaguars and Houston left, the Titans should win the last 3. Chris Johnson is finally starting to come through!

11-(7) Dallas Cowboys (7-5) - Dallas really does determine if they clinch the NFC east or not as they have the Giants twice, Eagles once and the Bucs coming up....win or go home! (BTW how the hell do you lose to the Cardinals? Tony "Choke" Romo")

10-(14) Detroit Lions (7-5) - I rank them here because they have the Vikings, Raiders and Chargers in the next 3 games, those should be 3 games the Lions are able to win and grab a wild card spot.

9-(8) Atlanta Falcons (7-5) Easiest road to a wild card in the NFC: Carolina, Jacksonville, New Orleans and Tampa Bay coming up, New Orleans also may already clinch by week 16 so playoff hopes are in their own hands.

8-(15) Houston Texans (9-3) Andre Johnson went down again but the Texans still managed to beat the Falcons without Schaub....I have to give them credit, they are 2 games up in the South and should be able to win the division with Bengals, Carolina, Indy and Titans coming up, they may even be able to win out and grab a bye week and I love their defense!

7-(10) Denver Broncos (7-5) - Screw the analysts that say Tebow can't be a QB in this league he is 6-1 this year and he keeps winning and he scares the hell out of me! The Broncos are on top of the West with 4 winnable games left against the Bears, Patriots, Bills and Chiefs. The Broncos defense has been playing fantastic giving up an average of 20.2 ppg in their last 5 games which were all wins!

6-(5) New England Patriots (9-3) - They won this week 31-24 against the Colts, but they almost let them back in the freaking game, they were up 31-3 in the 4th quarter and gave up 21 points to DAN ORLOVSKY...the defense is just way too shaky for my liking.

5-(6) S.F. 49ers (10-2) - Already in the playoffs winning the NFC west, now fighting for a bye week, will be pretty tough considering they have the hungry Cardinals, the dominating Steelers, the upset bound Seahawks and the upset bound Rams coming up.

4- (4) Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3) - Must win out to try to get the bye week and win the North with the Ravens on top, fairly easy schedule with the Browns coming up twice, 49ers and Rams coming up.

3-(3) Baltimore Ravens (9-3) - If they are truly elite they will win out and clinch the AFC North and the bye, they have Indy, Chargers, Browns and Bengals left.

2-(2) New Orleans Saints (9-3) - Drew Brees is unstoppable. Titans, Vikings, Falcons, Carolina coming up, so the Saints are in great shape for the NFC South and a Bye Week. Prediction: Packers and Saints in NFC championship, Packers win 55-48.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (12-0) - The Packers are going to run the table, they have Raiders, Chiefs, Bears and Lions left to beat and will...This could be one of the best NFL teams ever!

High School Super Bowl Final Socres

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-03T12:49:42-05:00

ALL SUPER BOWL GAMES WILL BE PLAYED SATURDAY DECEMBER 3rd!!!

East Division 1 Super Bowl:
FInal: B.C. High - 21 VS Needham - 7
6PM Gillette Stadium
(Prediction B.C. High Wins 30-12)
(Tom Nappi Prediction Record: 1-0)

Deontae Ramey-Doe has 3 touchdown runs including a 91 yard t.d. run in the 2nd quarter to help B.C. High to the East Division 1 Super Bowl title over Needham.

East Division 1A Super Bowl:
Final: Everett - 36 VS Lincoln-Sudbury - 12
(Prediction Everett Wins 28-16)
(Tom Nappi Prediction Record: 2-0)

The all time Touch Down passing leader in Massachusetts High School Football Jonathan Dibiaso finishes his high school career with 103 touchdown passes and a Division 1A Super Bowl title as Everett runs over Lincoln-Sudbury 36-12.

East Division 2 Super Bowl:
Final: Duxbury - 35 VS Tewksbury - 0
(Prediction Tewksbury Wins 20-16)
(Tom Nappi Prediction Record: 2-1)

Duxbury grabs 3 interceptions and finishes the season perfect 13-0, to claim the East Division 2 title.

East Division 2A Super Bowl:
Final: Dennis-Yarmouth - 35 VS Wakefield - 0
(Prediction Dennis-Yarmouth Wins 32-13)
(Tom Nappi Prediction Record: 3-1)

Dennis-Yarmouth completely shuts down Wakefield to capture the division 2A title in the East. Dennis-Yarmouth finishes the season at a perfect 13-0.

East Division 3 Super Bowl:
Final: Concord-Carlisle - 42 VS Oliver Ames - 9
9am Gillette Stadium
(Prediction Concord-Carlisle wins 30-25)
(Tom Nappi Prediction Record: 4-1)

George Crann had 3 Touchdowns, 18 carries for 122 yards for the Patriots of Concord-Carlisle as they capture the East Division 3 Super Bowl title!!!

East Division 3A Super Bowl:
Final: Bourne - 16 VS Hamilton-Wenham - 14
(Prediction Bourne Wins 20-12)
(Tom Nappi Prediction Record: 5-1)

Jason Moriarty passes a 10 yard touchdown to Nick Pereira in the 3rd quarter to give Bourne the 3-A Super Bowl Victory!

East Division 4 Super Bowl:
Final: Cardinal-Spellman - 8 VS Mashpee - 34
(Prediction Cardinal-Spellman Wins 32-28)
(Prediction Record 5-2)

Mashpee finishes the season perfect as they keep Cardinal-Spellman from Super Bowl title repeat hopes shutting them down 34-8.

East Division 4A Super Bowl:
Final: Blue Hills - 16 VS Cathedral - 14
(Prediction Blue Hills Wins 23-18)
(Prediction Record 6-2)

Matt Owens had a 44 yard touchdown pass to Carlos Bermudez in the Blue Hills 16-14 victory over Cathedral to capture the East Division 4A title.

MIAA Central Division 1 action

Central Mass Division 1 Super Bowl:
Final Leominster - 21 VS St.Johns-Shrewsbury - 6
Gillette Stadium 11:00am
(Prediction St.Johns-Shrewsbury Wins 37-30)
(Prediction Record 6-3)

Leominster had 204 yards passing and 100+ on the ground, The Blue Devils defense produced 3 turnovers to take down the St. Johns Pioneers and capture the Central Mass Division 1 Super Bowl title.

Central Mass Division 2 Super Bowl:
Final: Holy Name - 0 VS Nashoba - 27
2pm Fitchburg State
(Prediction Nashoba Wins 31-30)
(Prediction Record 7-3)

The Nashoba Chieftans defense shuts out Holy Name to capture the Central Mass Division 2 Super Bowl Title.

Central Mass Division 3 Super Bowl:
Final: Auburn - 7 VS Hudson - 0
3pm Worcester State
(Prediction Auburn Wins 23-21)
(Prediction Record 8-3)

Auburn had the lone touchdown in the 4th quarter Fred Taylor hauled in a 31 yard touchdown reception from Drew Goodrich to capture the Central Mass Division 3 Super Bowl for the Rockets.

Central Mass Division 4 Super Bowl:
Final: Northbridge - 20 VS Southbridge - 7
12:30pm Worcester State
(Prediction Northbridge Wins 19-16)
(Prediction Record 9-3)

Matt Phelan had a 21 yard touchdown runs as Northbridge takes down rivals Southbridge to capture the Central Division 4 Super Bowl title.

Central Mass Division 5 Super Bowl:
Final: Clinton - 14 VS Leicester - 20
10am Worcester State
(Prediction Leicester Wins 35-26)
(Prediction Record 10-3)

Tyler Goodney ran for a 46-yard touchdown with 3:07 left to lift Leicester to a 20-14 win over Clinton in the Central Mass Division 5 Super Bowl!

Central Mass Division 6 Super Bowl:
Final: Assabet - 34 VS Bay Path - 38
11am Fitchburg State
(Prediction Bay Path Wins 20-19)
(Prediction Record: 11-3)

SR. QB Kyle Pearson threw 4 Touch Down Passes, WR Anthony Baez had two touchdown receptions in the Bay Path Central Mass Division 6 Super Bowl Victory!

East Division 5 Super Bowl:
Final: Nantucket - 35 Latin Academy - 7

Western Massachusetts Super Bowls This Saturday Feature
Division 1 Final:
Longmeadow - 35 Springfield Central High School - 7

Long Meadow wins 11th Super Bowl in 15 straight appearances!

Division 2 Final: Commerce-6 Putnam High School- 48

Rishawn Harris had 3 touchdown receptions for Putnam to take down Commerce H.S. in the Western Mass Division 2 Super Bowl

Division 3 Final: Lee High School - 0 Mount Greylock - 16
Mount Greylock wins 2nd straight Super Bowl Title!

Division 4 Final: McCann Tech - 8 Pioneer Valley Regional - 14

Sports News 12-2-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-02T13:36:24-05:00

Bobby Valentine was introduced this afternoon as the newest manager of the Boston Red Sox. The Deal is reportedly a two year deal. He takes over for Terry Francona, Valentine spent time managing for both the Rangers and The Mets, but he has not managed in the States since 2002.

The Boston Bruins have signed forward David Krecji to a three year contract extension. Worth an estimated 16 million dollars. Krecji has spent his entire career in the Bruins organization.

As for the Bruins themselves they are coming off a month which saw them Undefeated in regulation, gaining 25 points and jumping from last place to first place in the Northeast Division. And just 2 points away from being the leaders in the NHL

Jordon Caron and Stephen Kampfer have been assigned to the Providence Bruins to get some game time in, the pair have been healthy scratches for most of the season.

Tim Thomas has been named the NHL first star for the month of November, he went 9-0 allowing just 16 goals and netting 3 shutouts.

Boston Celtics president Danny Ainge said this afternoon that he has no intention of Trade Rajon Rondo to the Hornets for Hornets Guard Chris Paul. Paul has since requested a trade to the Knicks and said he will not sign a contract extension

Tom Brady has been named the ACF offensive player of the Month, he led the Patriots to a 3-1 record, throwing for nearly 1300 yards, 10 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions.

The Minnesota Vikings will release Quarterback Donovan McNabb this afternoon, reports are that the Bears are interested.

As for preparation for this Sundays game against the 0-11 Indianapolis Colts. 16 players were limited for the Pats the only players not spotted at Practice were Sebastian Vollmer and Brandon Spikes.

The Philadelphia Eagles lost to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football 31-14. Eagles are now 4-8 and Seahawks are now 5-7

East and Central Mass High School Football Super Bowls

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-12-01T01:44:37-05:00

ALL SUPER BOWL GAMES WILL BE PLAYED SATURDAY DECEMBER 3rd!!!

East Division 1 Super Bowl: B.C. High VS Needham
6PM Gillette Stadium
(Prediction B.C. High Wins 30-12)

MIAA East Division 1 Semifinals. B.C. High knocked out Chelmsford as the typically used B.C. High running game turns to there defense and passing game in the 34-13 victory over Chelmsford, 6 turnovers produced by the B.C. high Defense B.C. high will play in the 6pm game at Gillette Stadium this Saturday against Needham who knocked out New Bedford 42-14. The Needham Rockets Q.B. Ryan Charter threw 2 touchdown passes to help wipe the New Bedford Whalers off the field and punch a ticket to the Super Bowl.

East Division 1A Super Bowl: Everett VS Lincoln-Sudbury
(Prediction Everett Wins 28-16)

The East Division 1A Super Bowl will feature the number 1 ranked team in the State Everett Against Lincoln-Sudbury
Everett completely shut down Lynn English 46-0, The all time touchdown passing leader in the state Jonathan Dibiasso threw 2 touchdown passes to tromp all over Lynn English and they advance to play Lincoln-Sudbury in the Super Bowl as Lincoln-Sudbury held on to get the victory over Barnstable 14-13. Matt Cahill thew 2 touchdown passes to Jack Harris in the 4th quarter to secure a date in the Division 1A super bowl against Everett.

East Division 2 Super Bowl: Duxbury VS Tewksbury
(Prediction Tewksbury Wins 20-16)

MIAA East Divison 2 Super Bowl at Gillette will feature Duxbury as they knocked off King Phillip 7-0 and Tewksbury who took down Reading 21-6. 2 Touchdowns produced by QB Chris Bettano, 1 passing, 1 rushing in the Tewksbury victory over reading.

East Division 2A Super Bowl: Dennis-Yarmouth VS Wakefield
(Prediction Dennis-Yarmouth Wins 32-13)

MIAA East Division 2A Super Bowl will Feature Dennis-Yarmouth who took down Walpole 46-20 and Wakefield who beat Marblehead by a single extra point 7-6. The lone touchdown by Wakefield came with 1:52 left in the 4th quarter as a 1 yard run by Josh Puccio and probably the most important extra point of Brian Auld's life sends the Wakefield Warriors to the East Division 2A Superbowl to take on Dennis-Yarmouth.

East Division 3 Super Bowl: Concord-Carlisle VS Oliver Ames
9am Gillette Stadium
(Prediction Concord-Carlisle wins 30-25)

MIAA East Division 3 Super Bowl 9am Saturday December 3rd at Gillette is Concord-Carlisle and Oliver Ames. Concord Carlisle took down a powerful Holliston squad who was in their 4th straight playoff season but 4 touchdown runs by one of the most elite running backs in the state George Craan kept Holliston from heading back to Gillette for a 2nd straight year, 32-27 was the final score as the Patriots of Concord Carlisle advance to play Oliver Ames who shut down Pembroke 20-12.

East Division 3A Super Bowl: Bourne VS Hamilton-Wenham
(Prediction Bourne Wins 20-12)

Division 3-A Super Bowl in the East will feature Bourne who took down Bishop Feehan 20-14, Joe Epps with a pair of rushing touchdowns, Bourne has a date with Hamilton-Wenham Saturday who shut out Newburyport 7-0 to punch there ticket this years 3-A Superbowl. Trevor Lyons scored the only touchdown of the game for Hamilton-Wenham.

East Division 4 Super Bowl: Cardinal-Spellman VS Mashpee
(Prediction Cardinal-Spellman Wins 32-28)

Divison 4 East Super Bowl will feature Cardinal Spellman who is back for a 2nd straight year after they took down Shawsheen 31-7, Cardinal Spellman looks to win their 2nd straight championship. QB Pat Hinkley had 3 touchdowns but left later in the game with an injured shoulder, Cardinal Spellman hopes to have Hinkley back for Saturdays meeting with Mashpee who took down Millis-Hopedale 30-12. Jordan Keli'inui rushed for 82 yards and 2 touchdowns for the Falcons of Mashpee to give them an opportunity to ruin Cardinal Spellman's hopes of a championship repeat in Division 4.

East Division 4A Super Bowl: Blue Hills VS Cathedral
(Prediction Blue Hills Wins 23-18)

In Division 4A The Hills are blue in Boston as Blue Hills takes down East Boston to advance 25-22, Blue Hills meet up with Cathedral who held on to beat Chelsea 12-10. Carlos Bermudez single handedly saved the Cathedral Panthers season running back a kickoff 70 yards with no time left on the clock to give Cathedral the win.

MIAA Central Division 1 action

Central Mass Division 1 Super Bowl: Leominster VS St.Johns-Shrewsbury
Gillette Stadium 11:00am
(Prediction St.Johns-Shrewsbury Wins 37-30)

Leominster has a date with St. Johns-Shrewsbury after taking down division rival Fitchburg in a teeth grinder 26-25, Leominster scored all 26 points in the 1st half, while Fitchburg added 12 in the 4th quarter. The thing that really hurts for Fitchburg is they lost because of a missed Extra Point. Leominster tests their luck next week once again as they head to Gillette at 11am to play a potent St. Johns offense who doused Shrewsbury in touchdowns in their 55-30 victory. QB Connor Kurtz threw for 231 yards and 2 touchdowns for the Pioneers of St-Johns-Shrewsbury.

Central Mass Division 2 Super Bowl: Holy Name VS Nashoba
2pm Fitchburg State
(Prediction Nashoba Wins 31-30)

MIAA Central Division 2 action Holy Name all over Gardner 34-7, Quinton Wright had 2 touchdown runs and a 82 yard punt return for a touchdown in the first quarter to help the Naps advance to play Nashoba Regional who took down Shepard Hill 35-14. Junior Running Back John Ojukwu rushed for 3 touchdowns for the Nashoba Chieftans to secure a 2pm date at Fitchburg State with Holy Name.

Central Mass Division 3 Super Bowl: Auburn VS Hudson
3pm Worcester State
(Prediction Auburn Wins 23-21)

MIAA Central Division 3 action Auburn held Groton-Dunstable to just 149 yards of offense in there 35-7 victory. The Auburn Rockets advance to play Hudson in the division 3 Super Bowl as they took down Oakmont 36-12, 5 different players scored touchdowns for Hudson. Auburn and Hudson meet Saturday 3pm, at Worcester State.

Central Mass Division 4 Super Bowl: Northbridge VS Southbridge
12:30pm Worcester State
(Prediction Northbridge Wins 19-16)

MIAA Central division 4 action Northbridge held on by a hair to take down Nipmuc 14-12, a missed extra point and a failed 2 point conversion was the difference in this game as Northbridge advances to play Southbridge after they hung on by a tic-tac to beat Grafton 21-20, but the amazing thing about the Southbridge-Grafton game, this matchup was so close that they played 4 overtimes, high school overtimes are college style in which each team starts at the 20 and gets a chance to score. Bart Chenevert had 2 touchdown runs for Southbridge in O.T. play to secure a date with Northbridge 12:30pm at worcester State.

Central Mass Division 5 Super Bowl: Clinton VS Leicester
10am Worcester State
(Prediction Leicester Wins 35-26)

MIAA Central Division 5 Clinton took out Narragansett High beating them down 30-8. Running Back Luis Feliz had 3 touchdown runs as he racked up 135 yards to lead Clinton in perhaps the biggest upset of the night as 5-6 Clinton took down 11-0 Narragansett High. Clinton plays 10am at Worcester State against Leicester who took down Bartlett 42-14, J.R. Keem Minton rushed 17 times, 239 yards and had a touchdown as Leicester decimated Bartlett who beat them during the season.

Central Mass Division 6 Super Bowl: Assabet VS Bay Path
11am Fitchburg State
(Prediction Bay Path Wins 20-19)

Last but not least MIAA Central Division 6 action featured Assabet taking down Littleton 22-18 and Bay Path shutting out Blackstone Valley 16-0. Assabet and Bay Path meet 11am Saturday on the fields of Fitchburg State.

Western Massachusetts Super Bowls This Saturday Feature
Division 1 Longmeadow takes on Springfield Central High School
Division 2 Commerce takes on Putnam High School
Division 3 Lee High School takes on Mt. Greylock
Division 4 McCann Tech takes on Pioneer Valley Regional

High School Football Playoff Final Scores

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-30T23:19:31-05:00

High School Football Playoff Match-ups November 29th 2011
Concord Carlisle (11-0) - 32 VS Holliston (10-1) - 27
Millis-Hopedale (10-1) - 12 VS Mashpee (11-0) - 30
Nipmuc (7-4) - 12 VS Northbridge (6-5) - 14
Narragansett H.S. (11-0) - 8 VS Clinton (5-6) - 30
Leicester (7-4) - 42 VS Bartlett (7-4) - 14
Assabet (10-1) - 22 VS Littleton (5-6) - 18
Valley Tech (9-2) - 0 VS Bay Path (9-2) - 16
St. Johns (7-4) - 55 VS Shrewsbury (5-6) - 30
Leominster (8-3) - 26 VS Fitchburg (6-5) - 25
Gardner (11-0) - 7 VS Holy Name (7-4) - 34
Nashoba (11-0) - 35 VS Shepherd Hill (8-3) - 14
Auburn (10-1) - 35 VS Groton-Dunstable (6-5) - 7
Hudson (8-3) - 36 VS Oakmont (7-4) - 12
Grafton (7-4) - 20 VS Southbridge (7-4) - 21
Chelmsford - 13 VS B.C. High - 34
New Bedford - 14 VS Needham - 42
Everett - 46 VS Lynn English - 0
Barnstable - 13 VS Lincoln-Sudbury -14
Tewksbury - 21 VS Reading - 6
King Phillip - 0 VS Duxbury - 7
Marblehead - 6 VS Wakefield - 7
Walpole - 20 VS Dennis-Yarmouth - 46
Oliver Ames - 20 VS Pembroke - 12
Newburyport - 0 VS Hamilton-Wenham - 7
Bishop Feehan - 14 VS Bourne - 22
Cardinal Spellman - 31 VS Shawsheen - 7
Cathedral - 12 VS Chelsea - 10
East Boston - 22 VS Blue Hills - 25

NFL Power Rankings Week 13

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-30T16:07:40-05:00

Here are the Week 13 from Tom Nappi Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week
If the Team is in Bold they are serious contenders in the playoff hunt, by the way you will notice only 5 teams mathematically out of it....WOW!
Power rankings are in order by teams that have best shot at the Super Bowl!

32-(32) Indianapolis Colts (0-11) - 0-16 here we come. Quickest from first to worst ever!!!

31-(31) Minnesota Vikings (2-9) - Christian Ponder ehhhh.....Awful

30-(30) St. Louis Rams (2-9) - Lost all creditability this week with a loss to the Cardinals

29-(29) Carolina Panthers (3-8) - They Beat the Colts....If they did not they would be ranked 32 this week.

28-(28) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-8) - Jack Del Rio Fired....Well Deserved!

27-(22) Cleveland Browns (4-7) - Peyton Hillis came back and they still lost!

26-(27) Arizona Cardinals (4-7) - If only the 49ers sucked like last year, they would be in the race

25-(24) Seattle Seahawks (4-7) - Bag of Suck that may sometimes upset good teams

24-(25) Miami Dolphins (3-8) - Almost beat the Cowboys on thanksgiving...but lost so see ya next year!

23-(26) Washington Redskins (4-7) - Is John Beck the starter?

22-(16) Philadelphia Eagles (4-7) - They must run the table for a wild card spot but I just don't see it.

21- (23) Tampa Bay Bucs (4-7) - The Bucs can't buy a win right now!

20- (18) S.D. Chargers (4-7) - 6 Losses in a row...wow does Norv Turner suck, there is no way they weasel there way into the playoffs this year!

19-(21) K.C. Chiefs (4-7) - Tim Tebow and the Oakland Raiders are in your division....bye!!

18-(20) Buffalo Bills (5-6) - You can thank Stevie Johnson for most likely costing you the season with his choke!

17-(17) Tennessee Titans (6-5) - Very much in the race with the Texans for the SOuth since Schaub went down.

16-(11) Chicago Bears (7-4) - May skid into a wild card seed but no Jay Cutler kills you!

15-(15) Houston Texans (7-4) - A win over the Jags does not convince me Leinhart can play, but a decent shot at the South title...they control their own destiny.

14-(8) Detroit Lions (7-4) - Maybe its just Donkey Kong stomp on you Suh but they seem to be falling apart a little and have no shot at the division and have another date with the Packers.

13-(19) Cincinnati Bengals (7-4) - Most likely must beat Baltimore or Pittsburgh at least once to claim a wild card spot. Andy Dalton is great!!! Bengals will be good for years to come!

12-(14) N.Y. Jets (6-5) - Barely skidded by the Bills and have no shot at the division with the Patriots J.V. High school schedule, but still have a slim shot at a wild card spot.

11-(9) New York Giants (6-5) - They have looked awful since beating the Patriots....What a lopsided season by the G-Men so far.

10-(13) Denver Broncos (6-5) - Tim Tebow stares the crap out of me, How the hell does he keep winning? Tebow can't throw but I am now convinced Jesus is on his side. I will move these guys into the top 5 if they beat the Pats in a couple weeks.

9-(12) Oakland Raiders (7-4) - I am expecting the Raiders to close out the west, but if not Tebow will be scary in the playoffs.

8-(10) Atlanta Falcons (7-4) - Looking better and better each week...without a doubt in my mind they will be an NFC wild card spot.

7-(7) Dallas Cowboys (7-4) - Should win the NFC east, but no way they get through the NFC playoffs. Tony Romo = Choke against good teams

6-(2) S.F. 49ers (9-2) - Thursday nights loss to Baltimore proved they do not seem to be able to keep up with the elite, but still a great shot at the NFC championship with there championship defense.

5-(4) New England Patriots (8-3) - I need to see their defense slow down a powerful offense to be able to give better judgement, Brady is playing great obviously but is stopping Tyler Palko and Vince Young enough reason to believe they can win the big one. However the road to the AFC championship with their tomato soup can schedule could be very easy.

4-(3) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) - Ravens control the destiny of the AFC North and the Steelers offense is sometimes sketchy such as almost losing to the Chiefs but there defense is magnificent.

3-(6) Baltimore Ravens (8-3) - The lacking Ravens offense raises question to if they can keep up with a high powered offense but there defense is arguably the best in the league.

2-(5) New Orleans Saints (8-3) - After crushing the Giants and witnessing the Saints extremely high powered offense, I hope they play the Packers in the playoffs I will bet $3000000000000000 on the over, at times they are unstoppable and the defense seems to be playing much bettwe.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (11-0) - I think they will run the table and win this years Super Bowl!

Weekend Scores and News

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-27T21:13:10-05:00

The NBA reached a tentative agreement this season to officially end the NBA Lockout there will be a 66 game season starting Christmas Day. The Boston Celtics will play the New York Knicks in their first game of the year on Christmas Day.

Women's Basketball Sunday November 27th:
Boston College - 68 Bryant - 42
Women's Ice Hockey Sunday November 27th:
B.C. - 3 Brown - 1
Men's Basketball Sunday November 27th:
Boston College - 57 New Mexico - 75
Men's Basketball Friday November 25th:
BC - 66 U.C. Riverside - 62

UConn Women's Basketball Sunday November 27th:
UConn - 78 Drayton - 38
UConn Soccer Sunday November 27th:
UConn - 3 JMU - 0
UConn Basketball Friday November 25th:
#4 Uconn - 63 UCF - 68

Mens Basketball November 25th 2011
#20 Florida State University - 41 Harvard - 46
Mens Basketball November 26th 2011
Harvard - 59 UCF - 49

Friday November 25th: Detroit - 3 Bruins - 2 Shootout
Saturday November 26th: Bruins - 4 Winnipeg - 2
(Chris Kelley, 2 Goals)

Saturday 11/26/2011
NCAAW Ole Miss - 72 UMASS - 67
Men's Hockey: Quinnipiac - 4 UMASS - 2
NCAA Bball UMASS - 61 Charleston College - 85

Hockey 11/26/2011 B.U. - 3 Cornell - 1
NCAAB 11/27/2011 B.U. - 68 Hofstra - 61
NCAAW 11/26/2011 B.U. - 71 URI - 44
NCAAW Hockey B.U. - 1 Cornell - 7

Thanksgiving
Green Bay Packers - 27 Detroit Lions - 15
Miami Dolphins - 19 Dallas Cowboys - 20
S.F. 49ers - 6 Baltimore Ravens - 16
Sunday
Minnesota Vikings - 14 Atlanta Falcons - 24
Cleveland Browns - 20 Cincinnati Bengals - 23
Tampa Bay Bucs - 17 Tennessee Titans - 23
Carolina Panthers - 23 Indianapolis Colts - 19
Arizona Cardinals - 23 St. Louis Rams - 20
Houston Texans - 20 Jacksonville Jaguars - 13
Chicago Bears - 20 Oakland Raiders - 25
Washington Redskins - 23 Seattle Seahawks - 17
New England Patriots - 38 Philadelphia Eagles - 20
New York Jets - 28 Buffalo Bills - 24
Denver Broncos - 16 S.D. Chargers - 13 O.T.

High School Football Playoff Match-ups November 29th 2011
Concord Carlisle (11-0) VS Holliston (10-1) 7:30pm Lowell H.S.
Millis-Hopedale (10-1) VS Mashpee (11-0) 7:30pm Taunton H.S.
Nipmuc (7-4) VS Northbridge (6-5) 5:15pm Foley Stadium
Narragansett H.S. (11-0) VS Clinton (5-6) 5:15pm Oakmont Regional
Leicester (7-4) VS Bartlett (7-4) 5:15pm Lunenburg High School
Assabet (10-1) VS Littleton (5-6) 7:45pm Lunenburg H.S.
Valley Tech (9-2) VS Bay Path (9-2) 5:15pm Wachusett H.S.
St. Johns (7-4) VS Shrewsbury (5-6) 7:45pm Foley Stadium
Leominster (8-3) VS Fitchburg (6-5) 7:45pm Doyle Field
Gardner (11-0) VS Holy Name (7-4) 5:15pm Doyle Field
Nashoba (11-0) VS Shepherd Hill (8-3) 7:45pm Wachusett Regional H.S.
Auburn (10-1) VS Groton-Dunstable (6-5) 7:45pm Auburn H.S.
Hudson (8-3) VS Oakmont (7-4) 7:45pm Oakmont Regional H.S.
Grafton (7-4) VS Southbridge (7-4) 5:15pm Auburn H.S.
Chelmsford VS B.C. High 5:15pm Lowell H.S.
New Bedford VS Needham 7:30pm Weymouth H.S.
Everett VS Lynn English 7:30pm Manning Field
Lynn Barnstable VS Lincoln-Sudbury 5:15pm Taunton H.S.
Tewksbury VS Reading 7:30pm Reading H.S.
King Phillip VS Duxbury 5:15pm Weymouth H.S.
Marblehead VS Wakefield 5:15pm Manning Field
Lynn Walpole VS Dennis-Yarmouth 7:30pm Bridgewater-Raynham H.S.
Oliver Ames VS Pembroke 7:30pm Franklin H.S.
Newburyport VS Hamilton-Wenham 7:30pm Andover H.S.
Bishop Feehan VS Bourne 5:15pm Bridgewater-Raynham H.S.
Cardinal Spellman VS Shawsheen 5:15pm Andover H.S.
Cathedral VS Chelsea 5:15pm Reading H.S.
East Boston VS Blue Hills 5:15pm Franklin H.S.
Latin Academy VS Nantucket TBD

Flagged: Pink Hats, Unsportsmanlike Conduct

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-23T21:52:44-05:00

Article by Jess Dempsey

Although it has recently been explained to me that the derogatory term “pink hats” has come to describe any fair-weather sports fan, it originally described the women who I like to call Brady Blondes, who wear pink sports paraphernalia to look “like, so totally cute!” while knowing nothing and caring not about the game. I must add a disclaimer that pink is my favorite color, so this post is not an attack on the color or those who like wearing sports paraphernalia that is pink. Also, notice that it’s not just the knowing nothing that counts. Every sports fan has to start somewhere, and not all of us are lucky enough to have a mother obsessed with NFL football (Hi, Mom) and a Dad who kept WEEI on during entire car rides to hear the Red Sox games (Hi, Dad).

Those who are genuinely eager to learn about a sport but have no knowledge of the sport are not included in this term. I am talking about the girls who know who Tom Brady is only because “he’s like OMG so hot and married to Gisele.” I call them the Brady Blondes, as they generally wear a #12 jersey to games (because none of them could name another play if they tried). Although now, I am seeing more and more #83 jerseys popping up. (Wes just has those dreamy blue eyes, doesn’t he?)

Some may argue that they fill seats so that’s all that matters. I would counter against that argument strongly. If you don’t like something, don’t care to engage in it or learn about it, why pay money to sit around looking bored and making an “ugh” face for several hours – inevitably making the game LESS enjoyable for the true fans around you?

I absolutely hate golf. Not mini-golf, but real golf. I think it’s boring and I can’t understand how people who watch it derive some sort of enjoyment from it. I may try to play a round at some point in my life, but it probably won’t become a regular thing. Due to all the aforementioned reasons, I don’t talk about, write about, watch, or pretend to know about, golf. I respect people who do, I just don’t.

Life is short enough as it is, so why spend any time pretending to like something you don’t like? It baffles me. I have a dear friend whose name shall remain private, who absolutely hates football. Hates. And that’s fine. But the minute she dates a guy who likes football, suddenly she’s trawling ESPN every day for things to impress him with. The thing is, people can spot a fake. And not being true to yourself will always come back to bite you in the ass. Want to impress someone who likes football? Know nothing about it yourself? A simple, “Oh, I don’t follow football, and am not sure I like it. But I am interested in the business side of women’s sports apparel (or something like that)” will do.

Bottom line: pink hats, stop being fake. You make it hard for the rest of us ladies who are actually real fans to get any sort of respect.

Week 12 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-23T13:01:17-05:00

Here are the Week 12 from Tom Nappi Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week
If the Team is in Bold they are still mathematically in the playoff hunt, by the way you will notice only 4 teams out of it....WOW!
Power rankings are in order by teams that have best shot at the Super Bowl!

32-(32) Indianapolis Colts (0-10) - Peyton Manning may play this season.....but no point

31-(31) Minnesota Vikings (2-8) - Christian Ponder will be better as time goes on.

30-(25) St. Louis Rams (2-8) - Lloyd is a huge improvement, but still can't win.

29-(30) Carolina Panthers (2-8) - The Carolina Cam Newton's have a chance to beat you but probably won't if your team has any kind of offense.

28-(27) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-7) - Hanging on for dear life, most likely out. A pretty good season for Blaine Gabbert

27-(23) Arizona Cardinals (3-7) - Out of the division race, but an extremely slim wild card chance, a team with good pieces on offense but could never put it together.

26-(28) Washington Redskins (3-7) - Hanging on for dear life in the East, but playing awful. Rex Grossman got benched last week, Skins never seize to fall apart.

25-(26) Miami Dolphins (3-7) - No way in hell they win the division, but if they run the table they could open up a wild card spot. Dolphins have won 3 straight and Reggie Bush looks great.

24-(24) Seattle Seahawks (4-6) - Have won 2 straight, 49ers own the west, but if they somehow manage to run the table they could slide in to the playoffs, they should have a win this week against the Redskins.

23-(19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-6) - 4 Losses in a row in the south with the Falcons and Saints, must run table for any hope what so ever...don't count on it.

22-(29) Cleveland Browns (4-6) - Potential for some upsets, no shot at playoffs but mathematically still in.

21-(21) Kansas City Chiefs (4-6) - In the AFC west but Matt Cassel is done for the season and so are the Chiefs.

20-(20) Buffalo Bills (5-5) - Very much alive but went from good to garbage in a span of 3 weeks.

19-(15) Cincinnati Bengals (6-4) - Andy Dalton is going to be fantastic in the future, but they still meet the Steelers and Ravens and there schedule is brutal....Get Em' Next Year!

18-(18) S.D. Chargers (4-6) - Very much alive in the new NFC West a.k.a. the AFC West, but 5 losses in a row, please don't tell me they could actually slip in after that!

17-(16) Tennessee Titans (5-5) - With Matt Schaub down, the Titans have a real chance to win the A.F.C. South with a reasonable schedule coming up and Matt Hasselbeck playing well.

16-(22) Philadelphia Eagles (4-6) - Vince Young and good defensive play may have resurrected the Eagles, the win over the Giants was HUGE, but the G-men played awful!

15-(14) Houston Texans (7-3) - Would be ranked a lot higher but Matt Schaub is gone and Matt Leinart is not really a great QB to rely on....Call Favre up!

14-(10) New York Jets (5-5) - Obviously a lot of talent, but they got T-Bowed last week and upcoming schedule is not too easy.

13-(17) Denver Broncos (5-5) - A real shot to win the West, only a game out and Tebow scares me, he can't throw too good but somehow wins games and proved he can beat good teams, plus the defense has played superb!

12-(13) Oakland Raiders (6-4) - Looking very good lately and may be a candidate for a playoff upset special if they manage to win the West over the Denver Tebows.

11-(6) Chicago Bears (7-3) - No Jay Cutler for the rest of the season really hurts, but the Bears no how to win using defense and a QB that can manage the game, QB Caleb Hanie does have big game experience and showed last year in the NFC championship he could put up some points, The Bears are also rumored to have brought back the recently waived QB Kyle Orton.

10-(11) Atlanta Falcons (6-4) - Have lost both games to the Saints this year, but always a threat with their strong running game and defense.

9-(8) New York Giants (6-4) - The Cowboys are getting red hot and the Giants are getting ice cold with 2 straight losses.

8-(12) Detroit Lions (7-3) - Tough Schedule coming up as they meet the Packers twice, thanksgiving will determine everything!!!

7-(9) Dallas Cowboys (6-4) - Tony Romo starting to look sharp, 3 straight wins heading into a thanksgiving battle with the Dolphins, Cowboys looking to be a huge threat after an awful start.

6-(7) Baltimore Ravens (7-3) - They are very unpredictable, one week they lost to the Seahawks, then the next week they beat the Steelers....I just don't know anymore.

5-(3) New Orleans Saints (7-3) - Looking very good but defense gives up a lot of points, but with Brees the Saints are always in Super Bowl contention.

4-(5) New England Patriots (7-3) - They have a pee-wee football schedule coming up that can lead them right to a bye week in the playoffs. Be careful or you might get GRONKED!

3-(2) Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3) - The only consistent team in the AFC, but certainly NOT a dominate force that can't be beaten, if they meet the Ravens in the playoffs look out!

2-(4) S.F. 49ers (9-1) - 8 Wins in a row, I have to rank them here, a monster of a game thanksgiving night against the Ravens that could chance everything but it is guaranteed the 49ers will win the NFC West unless they get hit by an asteroid.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers - Will they ever be beaten!!!! Close call with the Bucs last week but the key word is close, one of the most dominate teams I have ever seen! Between this season, last season and 2010 post season, the Packers have won 16 games in a row.

STAY TUNED TO THESE RANKINGS AFTER THANKSGIVING FOOTBALL AS THEY WILL CHANGE....PERHAPS DRASTICALLY

High School Fall Season Awards!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-21T09:15:23-05:00

It has been an amazing high school 2011 fall sports season in Massachusetts. Some of the biggest honors this year go out to the The Georgetown Girls soccer team who through 3 playoff games did not allow a goal responded to St. Mary's goal with 5 unanswered scores to capture the division 3 north girls title.

The Hopedale Blue Raiders girls soccer team earned there first state to the division 3 state final since 2005 after a 2-0 victory over undefeated Lenox, but Dover-Sherborn walked away with the division 3 state championship after routing Hopedale 2-1 on Friday November 18th 2011.

On Saturday November 19th 2011, Auburn took down Canton 1-0 to clinch the DIvision 2 Girls Soccer Title, The Rockets finished the season undefeated. The title was the first state title for the Auburn Girls.

on Friday November 18th The Ludlow Boys Soccer team clinched the division 1 state championship taking down Masconomet with a score of 2-1, and Sutton took down Georgetown 3-1 to clinch the Division 3 state title.

Also on Friday November 18th The Peabody girls soccer team took down East Longmeadow 1-0 Friday November 18th to win the division 1 girls state title.

The Groton-Dunstable boys soccer squad took down Concord-Carlisle 2-0 to capture the division 2 state title on Saturday November 19th.

Girls Volleyball rapped up on Saturday November 19th 2011 Barnstable took down Central Catholic for the Division 1 title, The Marlborough Panthers took down Melrose for the division 2 title and Frontier took down case for the Division 3 state title in girls volleyball.

Honorable Mentions go out to Andrea O' Brien of the Peabody girls soccer team as she closed out her season with 34 goals making her the highest scorer in Massachusetts for the 2011 season.

Masconomet J.R. Charlie May won his first individual division 2 state title in high school golf this sports season.

The Hudson Hawks won the Mid-wachusett B Golf Championship.

Randolph goaltender Emily Wilson had 10 straight shout outs as goalie to help the Randolph Field hockey team to their first state tournament. Oh and even more impressive Goalkeeper Emily Wilson was a backup goalie who filled in for starter Olivia Biles.

A big congrats this year to Everett Graduate Matt Costello won were one of the winners for the 2011 National Football Foundation High School-Scholar athlete awards.

The Auburn High School Foootball team won a 41 game winning streak into this season before losing to Shepard Hill Regional High School on Friday October 7th, but one of the biggest winning streaks ever in Massachusetts High School history by Auburn High School with 41 straight wins.

Quarter Back Jonathan Dibiaso of Everett High School broke the all time state passing record in his highschool career after throwing six touchdown passes against Medford on Friday October 28th. Dibiaso after that game had 85 straight touchdown passes breaking Tom Colombo's state record for the most touchdown passes in a high school career.

The Hopedale Boys Cross Country team won the Dual Valley Conference championship meet at Nipmuc as Matt Doran, Paul Maurais and Chris Kivor finished 3rd, 4th and 5th.

This has been Tom Nappi with High School Sports honorable mentions for the 2011 fall season in Massachusetts, tune into High School Sports talk on MA Sportsweb.com to get updates on all your favorite high school teams and check out the sports news page for all the latest updates.

High School Sports Playoffs: Fall Season

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-16T11:44:54-05:00

Some High School Notes: 17 Teams punched tickets to this years playoffs in high school football this past weekend: Chelmsford, Lynn English, Duxbury, Wakefield, Walpole, Pembroke, Newburyport, Hamilton-Wenham, Bishop Feehan, Cardinal Spellman, Shawsheen, Mashpee, Cathedral, Chelsee, Nantucket, Bourne and Latin Academy.

In Field Hockey Andover reached the division 1 state championship for the second year in a row, they defeated Duxbury Tuesday Night and will take on Longmeadow at Worcester State Saturday at Noon after Longmeadow took down Algonquin with an overtime goal by Catherine Ryan in the Lancers 1-0 victory over the tomahawks.

In division 2 field hockey action the Watertown Red Raiders extended there winning streak to 68 games, dating back to 2008 as they knocked Canton out of the playoffs 3-2, Watertown will play Oakmont for the state championship Saturday at Worcester State.

In Girls Volleyball Central Catholic knocked out the Red Hot Lincoln Sudbury and advances to the finals against the winner of Brookline and Barnstable.

The Georgetown boys soccer team took down Lynnfield 2-0, to capture the division 3 North Sectional Final.

The Georgetown Girls soccer team who through 3 playoff games did not allow a goal responded to St. Mary's goal with 5 unanswered scores to capture the division 3 north girls title.

Hopedale did something no one has been able to do and that is defeating Division 3 West champion Lenox, Hopedale won the game 2-0 and its earned its first trip to the division 3 state final since 2005. Jessica Messier and Lauren Kapatoes had goals for the Hopedale Blue Raiders who take down previously unbeaten Lenox to move on the Division 3 State finals, Congratulations to the Hopedale Lady Blue Raiders.

Who will Hopdale meet in the Division 3 state finals you may ask, that would be the Dover Sherborn Raiders as Victoria Ortega had a goal to push the Raiders pass Georgetown tuesday in the semifinals. In took 2 overtimes but Dover Sherborn got it done as Victoria Ortega scored the only goal of the game as the Raiders of Dover-Sherborn advance to the state championship for division 3 to take on Hopedale, time, date and site to be determined.

Newburyport is the Division 1 East girls soccer champs after defeating stoneham 1-0 in a overtime shootout. Newburyport last captured state titles in 2007 and 2008 Betsy Albiani forced sudden death knocking in the 4th goal of the shootout for stoneham, Amy Sullivan would cap it off for newburyport knocking a goal into the bottom right corner of the net to clinch the state title for Newburyport.

In Division 1 North girls soccer, Peabody took down Concord-Carlisle, Concord-Carlisle's Andrea O' Brien closes out her season as eastern massachusetts highest scorer.

In an Eastern Massachusetts track meet Kevin Thomas and Joel Hubbard of Marshfield dominated, finishing well ahead of the other 229 runners.

In Boys Cross Country, Brookline, Lincoln-Sudbury, Oliver Ames, Pembroke and newburyport all winners this past tuesday november 15th.

Fun fact of the day the longest winning streak in High School Football in the Country is Chandler High School in Hamilton, Arizona with 52 wins in a row, longest High School football winning streak in Massachusetts is Mt. Greylock Regional out of Duxbury, Massachusetts with 23 wins in a row.

On that note here is your current high school football playoff picture in massachusetts
Division 1 Chelmsford vs. Catholic Memorial/BC High winner Big Three vs. Bay State Carey
Brockton or New Bedford VS Weymouth, Needham or Framingham
Division 1A Everett/Malden vs. Lynn English Barnstable vs. Lincoln-Sudbury

Division 2 Tewksbury vs. Reading Hockomock Kelley-Rex vs. Duxbury

(Mansfield, King Phillip, North Attleborough or Attleboro will take on Duxbury)
Division 2A Swampscott/Marblehead winner vs. Wakefield Walpole vs. Dennis Yarmouth/Nauset winner

Division 3 Concord-carlisle/Bedford winner vs. TVL Large (Holliston, Hopkinton or Westwood)
Hockomock Davenport vs. Pembroke
Oliver Ames, Stoughton or Sharon VS Pembroke

Division 3A Newburyport vs. Hamilton-Wenham Bishop Feehan vs. Bourne

Division 4 Cardinal Spellman vs. Shawsheen Millis-Hopedale vs. Mashpee

Division 4A Cathedral vs. Chelsea Boston North vs. Blue Hills

Division 5 (Super Bowl) Latin Academy vs. Nantucket

LISTEN TO HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS TALK FOR MORE THIS THURSDAY AT 8PM/ET

7 Things We Learned on SNF

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-14T14:37:45-05:00

The New England Patriots and the New York Jets came into Sunday on two completely different sides of the spectrum. The Jets has been riding a three game winnings streak where they looked as they were one of the most dominate teams in the NFL. The Patriots on the other hand looked like a team that had lost most if not all of its firepower, losing two games in a row for only the third time since 2003, that itself tells you something.

When Sunday Night was over, the Teams left on the opposite side of the spectrum from where they began. Everything we thought was so certain about the Jets is now in question. Likewise, the Patriots answered a lot of questions and exercised a lot (but not all) of their demons.

Here are 7 things we learned we learned about the Patriots after their big divisional match up:

TOM BRADY HASN’T COMPLETELY LOST IT

Tom Brady hasn’t been perfect this season, as we all have discussed in New England this season, there was speculation after last weeks loss against the Giants that Brady’s elbow has been bothering him, which would make sense since it is widely accepted that the shoulder affects throwing strength and the elbow effects accuracy.

It was the fact that he was still dangerously effective on Sunday despite that which made Brady’s performance all the more memorable. He completed 66.7% of his passes for 329 yards and three touchdowns and had a 118.4 passer rating against the Jets defense, by far the most points they have given up this season.

CHAD OCHOCINCO CAN STILL MAKE A DEFENSE PAY

Yes, it was only two receptions. Yes, the first one looked like he had no idea where he was on the field. Yes it looked like both catches came on broken coverage’s.

But it was by far, better then anything we’ve seen the Ochocinco-Brady duo get done this season. Ochocino had a 12 yard reception on his first reception and then followed that up with his longest reception on the season for 53 yards.

It wasn’t the awakening of a sleeping giant like we all hoped Albert Haynesworth would have been, but it was absolutely better then we have seen Chad play all season.

ANDRE CARTER AND THE PASS RUSH CAN GET TO THE QUATERBACK

Note the headline, as I give Andre Carter most of the credit hear with a personal best performance (and team record) of 4.5 sacks on Mark Sanchez. Besides that he was in Sanchez face nearly every time he dropped back into the pocket.

Mark Anderson also got their a few times as well, forcing Sanchez to become mobile, something he is not very good at.

The defense, at least the defensive line is starting to become what we all saw in the preseason, an attacking and even blitzing style of defense.

THE PATRIOTS HURRY UP OFFENCE CAN KEEP DEFENSE’S ON THEIR HEELS

Tom Brady and his offence have been running the Hurry Up offence a lot this year, especially in the past few weeks, and when they do, it works very well for them. The Jets defense just couldn’t keep up with the Patriots offence, they were just too fast for the Jets to get properly set.

This type of offence allowed Brady to read the defense and find the best match ups. This includes a few plays where the Jets just couldn’t get set, leaving receivers open and allowing the Patriots to get easy first downs.

THE PATRIOTS DEFENSE IS IMPROVING...

The Patriots got hurt some in the running game from the Jets, but they played a lot better against the pass then advertised.

They gave up a bit up the middle, but that was to be expected, but they also put plenty of pressure on the quarterback with Anderson and Carter doing the majority of work in that area. They held Mark Sanchez to 20-39, 206 yards a touchdown and two interceptions including one taken back for a touchdown.

The Patriots figured that giving the Jets some room to run would be better in the long run then allowing Sanchez to have his way with them with the passing game, and the game plan magnified that. Despite rushing 100 yards against the Patriots --becoming the first team to do so all season-- the Jets were unable to keep a rhythm going, and that was large in fact to the lack of execution by Sanchez and sound coverage by the Patriots on defense.

…DESPITE BEING SHORT MANNED

Jeff Tarpinian, James Ihedigbo, Sterling Moore. Those were just a few of the names that were asked to step up on Sunday.

In fact, after Devin McCourty’s injury took him out of the game in the second quarter, New England’s entire secondary was comprised full of undrafted free agents.

It may have come against lesser compition, but the Patriots defense played their best game all season, on the road against a team that was supposed to pick them apart.

Whether against the Jets and Mark Sanchez, or anyone else. Whether with their starters or with their replacements. Nobody thought this Patriots defense was capable of a performance like this.

ROB GRONKOWSKI IS A MONSTER

Throughout Tom Brady struggles during the season, he always looked either to Wes Welker in the slot or his tight ends up the middle. That was part of the problem then, but it was also part of the solution on Sunday. Wes Welker was pretty much held in check all game since he was being shadowed by Darrell Revis, so he was more or less limited, similar situation with Aaron Hernandez who is obviously still hurting from his MCL injury. The one constant that has been their for Brady all season has been Rob Gronkowski and they continued on Sunday.

Brady found Gronkowski for two touchdowns, including a third that was called off due to Gronkowski being pushed out of bounds while running his route in the back of the end zone.

On the Night, Gronkowski caught 8 passes for 113 yards and two touchdowns. He continues to be a match up nightmare for any defense that lines up against him.

He has 52 receptions for 709 yards and 8 touchdowns on the season.

Well, There you have it, you have to be looking up at this heading into next weeks Monday Night game against The Chiefs and their mediocre pass defense. The rest of the season looks pretty good too, however once we get into the postseason, assume this team gets in….all bets are off.

READ MORE FOR CRAIG's WEEK 11 NFL POWER RANKINGS

7 THINGS WE LEARNED ABOUT THE PATRIOTS AFTER SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

Week 11 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-14T00:11:12-05:00

Here are the Week 11 from Tom Nappi Power Rankings, (#) - Last Week

32-(32) Indianapolis Colts (0-10) - Ranked Last for Obvious Reasons, ewww what a mess without Manning.

31-(27) Minnesota Vikings (2-7) - Not a threat to anyone really!!

30-(28) Carolina Panthers (2-7) - After getting crushed 30-3 against Titans, they really don't even seem like they have the potential for upset

29-(31) Cleveland Browns (3-6) - Hillis does not want to play without a new contract (injury my butt) = no offense

28-(23) Washington Redskins (3-6) - Looking worse and worse every week

27-(26) Jacksonville Jaguars (3-6) - A win this week against the Colts (are the Colts still an NFL Team?)

26-(29) Miami Dolphins (2-7) - Looked impressive this week 2 game winning streak!

25-(30) - St. Louis Rams (2-7) - Brandon Lloyd looks stunning and he is the reason you beat the Browns this week

24-(24) - Seattle Seahawks (3-6) - There is something wacky about this team, sometimes they get killed against crap teams, but other weeks they beat good teams like the Ravens...WOW what an upset special this week!

23-(25) - Arizona Cardinals (3-6) - John Skelton is the next Kurt Warner... no not really but nice win crapping on the Eagles and most likely ending their season.

22-(14) - Philadelphia Eagles (3-6) - Wow how wrong was I...What a joke, sorry Andy Reid I think your team is out and your job is gone.

21-(20) K.C. Chiefs (4-5) - You got beat by Tim Tebow but you beat Phillip Rivers??????? UH OH Cassel is lost for the season buh bye...well in the West you still never know.

20-(17) - Buffalo Bills (5-4) - A little bit better but still a fluke that will finish 8-8, 9-7, Cowboys crushed your dreams!

19-(19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5) - Another team that is good sometimes but sometimes just AWFUL. Albert Haynesworth will help you to the Super Bowl....NOT

18-(16) San Diego Chargers (4-5) - What a joke...best Roster on Paper, awful team on the field

17-(21) - Denver Broncos (4-5) - Tim Tebow is here...Praise the Lord!

16-(18) - Tennessee Titans - Still continues to look pretty good, but you need to look real good to beat the Texans for the South. Has a legit chance to win the South now that Schaub is gone for the season....LOOK OUT THE TITANS ARE COMING!

15-(13) - Cincinnati Bengals (6-3) - Still for real but has not beat anyone good, so I can't rank them too high.

14-(12) - Houston Texans (7-3) - Surprise team of the year, has a real chance at doing damage to any team, 4 game winning streak without Andre Johnson....unreal! OOPS Had to me these guys down because QB Matt Schaub is out for the Season....and Titans will win the division!

13-(21) - Oakland Raiders (5-4) - Has serious potential to win the West and upset someone in the playoffs!

12-(8) - Detroit Lions (6-3) - Your division rival Bears murdered you...what do you expect, semi-serious contender!

11-(6) Atlanta Falcons (5-4) - Tough Loss to the Saints, but is in real danger of missing the playoffs now.

10-(9) New York Jets (5-4) - Patriots won the season series and you are in danger of missing the playoffs...REX LOOK OUT

9-(15) Dallas Cowboys (5-4) - Tony you are so not going to win a Super Bowl anytime soon but your team is threatening for the NFC East.

8-(3) New York Giants (6-3) - So Shhhhhakkkky, Need to be able to beat good teams back to back and hasn't proven to be able to do so

7-(2) Baltimore Ravens (6-3) - What the hell is wrong with the Ravens, how do you lose to the Seahawks....Flacco is too inconsistent for me.

6-(11) - Chicago Bears (6-3) - Looking scary good, If you beat the Eagles and Giants back to back you deserve to be here...4 straight wins and the defense and O-Line looks fantastic

5-(10) - New England Patriots (6-3) - Outstanding offense and great defense against the Jets, but show me more defensively. The Pats have 7 easy games coming up to cap off the season and should clinch a bye week in the playoffs!!!

4-(7) San Francisco 49ers (8-1) - 2nd Best Record in the league...Looked real good against the Giants but I still need to see more wins against tough teams....Defense has given up least amount of points in the league (138), that is unreal!!!

3-(5) - New Orleans Saints (7-3) - Nice win against Atlanta...but can they play consistent against good teams? Saints have scored most points in the NFL (313) but given up most points in the NFC (228).

2-(4) - Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3) - Took down the Bengals this week and 4-1 in their last 5, right now looking like best all around team in AFC for now, but look out for the Texans.

1-(1) Green Bay Packers (9-0) - The Life of a Cheese Head is great right now. 2011 Super Bowl Champions and undefeated heading into an easy win Monday Night with the Vikings, won't move Packers until someone actually beats them.

Fridays Finals!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-12T00:15:15-05:00

In High School Football Hockomock play
Oliver Ames downs Stoughton 24-14
Sharon Over Foxborough 21-7
Attleboro over Franklin 21-14
North Attleborough upsets the 4th ranked team in the state Mansfield 18-15.

In Tri-valley Large play Hopkinton all over Westwood 42-13
Dover-Sherborn crushes Ashland 47-19.

In Non-League Play Norton lost at Holliston 48-28
Leominster crushes Marlborough 25-7
Medway destroys Bellingham 40-20

Millis/Hopedale is 9 and 1 after beating Medfield 21-13. Jim Perkins had a pair of rushing touchdowns and a 56 yard touchdown reception was credited to Ian Strom in the 2nd quarter.

Millis/Hopedale has already clinched a playoff spot, they will battle they will battle Mashpee in the first round after Mashpee took down East Bridgewater 16-6 on Friday.

Jonathan Papelbon has agreed to a deal with the Philadelphia Phillies close to 4 years and 50 million dollars with additional benefits that could take the deal close to $60 Million.

In the opening games of NCAA basketball
Northeastern Huskies took down Boston University in Overtime 82-74
Harvard over MIT 76-49,
Duke hung on to beat Belmont 77-76
Uconn over Columbia 70-57

In the first ever Carrier classic North Carolina took down Michigan State 67-55 on the flight deck of the USS Carl Vinson in Coronado, California, which was site of the burial of Osama Bin Laden's burial after he was killed by navy seals.

The New England Patriots take on the New York Jets in the Meadowlands this sunday at 8pm on Sunday Night Football

Happy Veterans Day!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-11T15:49:29-05:00

LA TIMES
Aircraft carrier embarks on unique mission as basketball arena
The Carl Vinson's flight deck becomes a hoop deck as the warship plays host to a basketball game between No. 1 North Carolina and Michigan State. Spartans AD Mark Hollis conceived the event.
Source: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-1111-aircraft-carrier-basketball-20111111,0,6672064.story
What an awesome idea?

Sports News 11-11-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-11T12:51:07-05:00

After 46 years, Joe Paterno is out as head coach at PENN State, Paterno was fired Wednesday night amid a sex abuse scandal, in which Paterno is accused of covering up former coach Jerry Sandusky sexually abusing players and young children. Tom Bradley will be the interim head coach and will coach PENN’s States game on Saturday. Mike McQueary will not be at the game Saturday vs Nebraska after receiving numerous death threats.

The Boston Bruins won there 4th straight as they shut down the Edmonton Oilers 6-3. Marchand had 2 goals and T. Rask had 27 saves.

After taking two straight losses for the first time since 2009, the Patriots got back to practice this week as they prepare to head to The Medowlands to take on the Red Hot Jets. 9 players were limited for the patriots including Wes Welker. Dan Fletcher, Patrick Chung, and Brandon Spikes did not practice.

The Patriots also released defensive tackle Albert Hayensworth on Tuesday, he has since joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Sandy Alomar Jr. was the lastest managerial canidate to be interviewed for the Red Sox open manager position, The Red Sox will interview Blue Jays first base coach Torey Lovullo on Friday and Tigers third base coach Gene Lamont on Saturday.

The NBAPlayers Assoication and NBA owners have been meeting since 1 PM today in hopes of reaching a new CBA, Reports say that the issue of basketball related income has been resolved per a 50-50 split, and reportedly there is momentum for a deal, later tonight.

Week 10 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-07T14:47:47-05:00

Here are the Week 10 NFL Power Rankings as we are at the midpoint of the NFL season game wise!
(Rankings based on teams least to most likely to win in the playoffs!)

32) Indianapolis Colts (0-9) - No Peyton Manning + Peyton Manning System = No Team

31) Cleveland Browns (3-5) - Their only offense is Peyton Hillis and he is a mess this season, Colt McCoy is not so good

30) St. Louis Rams (1-7) - Rams got 1 fluke win against the Saints all season long, although Brandon Lloyd provides hope, but you lost to the awful Cardinals this week.

29) Miami Dolphins (1-7) - They beat the overrated Kansas City Chiefs this week

28) Carolina Panthers (2-6) - If you can't handle the Vikings this season, you deserve to be ranked no higher than this.

27) Minnesota Vikings (2-6) - No Donovan McNabb makes the Vikings a tad better, although Christian Ponder is going to get crushed against the Packers next Monday

26) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) - Blaine Gabbert looks to be getting better and better... but only 2 wins

25) Arizona Cardinals (2-6) - Kevin Kolb, Larry Fitzgerald, Early Doucet = Good, the other 50 players = Bad

24) Seattle Seahawks (2-6) - Potential to upset some good teams, but potential to lose the rest of the season

23) Washington Redskins (3-5) - Strong start, but now playing like we all expected....BAD 4 losses in a row

22) Denver Broncos (3-5) - TIM TEBOW BRINGS HOPE, I doubted he would but they beat Oakland this week, but Tebow still can't throw

21) Oakland Raiders (4-4) - This team is like a seesaw you never know what the hell you will get

20) Kansas City Chiefs (4-4) - They lost to the Dolphins after beating the Chargers...potential but fluke team

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4) - Josh Freeman is just soooo shaky this season, but still a chance at a playoff spot....no not really

18) Tennessee Titans (4-4) - I give the Titans credit there only offensive threat sucks but they still manage to play sub-par football

17) Buffalo Bills (5-3) - Much better this year, but still won't keep up with the elite

16) San Diego Chargers (4-4) - Decent QB, Awful Coaching and pretty good team in general = flukiest team in the NFL

15) Dallas Cowboys (4-4) - Tony Romo = Can't win the big game

14) Philadelphia Eagles (3-5) - After Awful start, they at least started to look a little and i mean very little like the dream team they call themselves, but as the Bears showed Monday Night, Pressure Vick and you will beat them.

13) Cincinnati Bengals (6-2) - These guys are for real and Andy Dalton will be better than Carson Palmer, I will move them way up in the Power Rankings if they beat the Steelers this week.

12) Houston Texans (6-3) - Good job winning 3 in a row without Andre Johnson, not a team to be taken lightly.

11) Chicago Bears (5-3) - Jay Cutler looks much better this year and so does the O-Line but as far as making the playoffs with the Packers and Lions in your division, it may be tight but after beating the so called "Dream Team" Eagles they are a huge threat! Jay Cutler and Brian Urlacher are out for heads!

10) New England Patriots (5-3) - Good offense...usually but the worst passing defense in the league, they still could pull a rabbit out of the hat of course with the Belichick/Brady Combo but god please get a G.M. that can actually evaluate talent.

9) New York Jets (5-3) - Defense finally stepping it up and Mark Sanchez sucks passing deep but can manage the game if the run game comes through and in the last 3 weeks Jets are back to winning at their style of football.

8) Detroit Lions (6-2) - Scary good defense and a very good offense, one of the deepest and underrated rosters in the NFL...They are for real

7) San Francisco 49ers (7-1) - 6 wins in a row and will easily run away with the NFC west...Alex Smith finally looking good as expected, however 1 loss all year does not mean anything, their schedule is very weak. Huge game with major implications this week with Detroit coming up at home!

6) Atlanta Falcons (5-3) - Starting to show signs of looking like the NFC Super Bowl team all the big time so called experts expected.

5) New Orleans Saints (6-3) - Great offense, no defense, but knows how to win, and should find a playoff spot in the NFC

4) Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) - Good team all around as usual, but Baltimore has their number.

3) New York Giants (6-2) - I hate to say it but Eli Manning is looking like a top 5 quarterback and the receiving core and running game even without Bradshaw and Nicks still looks amazing. Defense is great as well despite a boatload of injuries...deep roster

2) Baltimore Ravens (6-2) - Looking like they have the potential to be the AFC Super Bowl contender as long as Flacco can manage the game and put some points on the board.

1) Green Bay Packers (8-0) - Undefeated, last years Super Bowl champions and Aaron Rodgers is by far the best QB in the league this year....enough said!

READ MORE TO SEE HOW CRAIG D'ALESSANDRO RANKS EM!

Weekend Headlines

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-07T01:30:58-05:00

Patriots Are In BIG Trouble!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-06T23:37:19-05:00

By: Tom Nappi

The New England Patriots have lost their first home regular season game with Tom Brady starting in four years. The Patriots lost to the New York Giants 24-20 Sunday Afternoon. The Patriots scraped together no-name, last ranked against the pass defense played well in the first half as at halftime it was 0-0. In the 4th quarter however the Patriots defense fell apart.....again giving up 2 touchdowns in 3 minutes to a Giants receiving core WITHOUT Hakeem Nicks.

The Patriots defense is filled with no-names, un-drafted free agents and even a few guys from community colleges. The Patriots signed Phillip Adams after resigning him and releasing him 3 times already this season (who the hell is Phillip Adams?) The Patriots did make some HUGE signings for the Giants game however, resigning Ross Ventrone for their 3rd time this year and CB Sterling Moore.... NO WAIT who the hell are those guys?

Well Ross Ventrone has been signed 3 different times by the Patriots. MAKE UP YOUR MIND BILL, IF YOU SIGN A SUCK BAG DEFENSIVE BACK COULD YOU AT LEAST KEEP THE GUY FOR A COUPLE WEEKS!

Check this out from the Patriots website if you don't believe me
Ross Ventrone was signed by the Patriots as a rookie free agent on April 29, 2010 ... Released by the Patriots (8/20/10)... Re-signed by the Patriots (8/23/10) ... Released by the Patriots (9/4/10) ... Resigned to the practice squad by the Patriots (10/19/10).
http://archive.patriots.com/team/index.cfm?ac=playerbio&bio=34199

Now don't get me wrong I am not saying the Offense is perfect, heck Brady threw 2 interceptions today, but the fact is the offense is not the problem! No matter who you have on offense, if you have no defense and the offense isn't clicking for a game you ain't winning that game (slang english used in the previous sentence for rhyming purposes)!

Bill Belichick is by far one of the best coaches in NFL history, but he may be on the verge of becoming one of the worst GM's in NFL history by failing in the draft and free agency. Belichick has had his good singings such as Corey Dillon, the Tight End combo, Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski, Albert Haynesworth seems to be doing okay, Vince Wilfork is amazing, Darius Butler is decent, Jerod Mayo is working out very well, but in five years with GM duties, that is pretty much it! People that don't like to criticize their team (known as homers) worship Belichick as a god and think his 3 Super Bowls still give him merit, well they do....but only a little because it has been 7 years since the Patriots have won one. Scott Pioli and Bill Parcells were also responsible for most of the core of the defense for the Super Bowl teams of 2001, 2003 and 2004.

Since Tedy Bruschi, Rodney Harrison, Ty Law, Richard Seymour, Lawyer Milloy, Willie McGinest left its pretty easy to see the defense has not been the same and that is because Bill Bellichick trades down high draft picks for low ones and signs players with troubled pasts such as off field issues or injuries for cheap money and in the 5 years he has been doing it, I truly wonder if he is starting to realize that IT DOES NOT WORK and YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! Bill Belichick at the draft is like a fat guy at a buffet trying to get as much food as possible, but not caring about the fact that the food sucks and you are going to be sick from it later.

The scary thing is I have been ranting that the defense sucks since 2008 and I almost set my house on fire when I heard about the Richard Seymour trade, now finally people are finally starting to see the scraped together, mess of a defense that Bill has built does not work! Belichick has had 40 draft picks from 2008 until now and only 10 of them (and that is being generous) have developed into something, batting a .250 in the draft does not help you in the playoffs. The Patriots have been 1 and done for the past 2 years now, most specifically because of the failure of the Patriots defense to make big plays and now 2 straight losses in situations that could have set you apart in the AFC east, instead you are tied with the Jets and the Bills at 5 and 3.

The only way I see anything getting better in New England is if Bill Bellichick is willing to accept voices on the coaching staff that actually have the reputation to question Bellichick's actions such as a Romeo Crennel or Charlie Weis, or even a Josh McDaniels or Eric Mangini, because Bill Belichick cannot do this on his own, and if he refuses that fact and does not want another voice helping him out or even taking over the GM duties than it may be time to go another way, and you have to do this for the 2012 season because time is limited....Tom Brady will not be around forever!

Early Prediction for Next Week from an unbiased perspective Jets - 27 Patriots - 20
(Unless Bill keeps Phillip Adams and Ross Ventrone because that will make this game a Patriots Lock!)

Email us your comments masportsweb@gmail.com we will post them!

High School Football week 9

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-05T00:39:00-04:00

WMRC’s High School game of the week featured the Mansfield Hornets and the Franklin Panthers. Mansfield shut out Franklin 27-0. Greg Donahue was your player of the game as he rushed for 125 yards and 1 touchdown. Mike Blackman hauled in a 40 yard touchdown pass from George Busharis in the third quarter as the 8-1, 5th ranked team in the state Mansfield Hornets remain on top of the Kelly Rex in the Hockomock. Mansfield is now ranked as the number #4 team in the state.

In other Kelly-Rex action #15 in the state King Phillip took Down Attleboro 41-7.

Wachusett shut out Milford last night 28-0. Milford drops to 3 and 6 in there 5th straight loss and plays St-Johns Shrewsbury on the road next Saturday at 1pm. Wachusett is 4 and 5 on the season.

In other Mid-Wach action Leominster defeated Shrewsbury 27-14, Marlborough shut out Westborough 36-0, Nashoba over Hudson 24-7 and North Middlesex took down Algonquin 33-7.

In Tri-Valley play Millis-Hopedale improved too 8 and 1 as they rolled over Bellingham 48-6, Holliston is on top of the TVL Large as they beat up on Medway 41-12, Hopkinton defeated Medfield 27-7 and Norton defeated Ashland 31-7.

Last Week Everett’s Jonathan DiBiaso threw for 6 touchdown passes in a 41-14 victory over Medford to set the state record for touchdown passes. Dibiasso has 90 touchdown passes in his high school career heading into Everett’s week 9 matchup.

--The Milford Youth Cheerleading U15 and U13 teams will compete this month at the regional competition in Worcester.

Saturday Headlines

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-05T00:36:47-04:00

The Boston Bruins are set to take the ice in Toronto tonight at 7 to take on the Maple Leafs. The Bruins won their last game 5-3 Tuesday night against the Ottawa Senators.

The New England Patriots take on the New York Giants this Sunday in a 2007 Super Bowl rematch, Good news for the Patriots as RB Ahmad Bradshaw and WR Hakeem Nicks are doubtful for the Giants.

In baseball off season news Chicago Cubs President Theo Epstein allegedly met with Terry Francona about becoming the next Cubs manager, after firing Mike Quade last week. Cubs also interviewed other candidates for the position as well.

The Red Sox have allowed Jonathan Papelbon, David Ortiz, Tim Wakefield and Jason Varitek to become free agents. The Sox and Cubs have asked the Rangers permission to talk too Pitching Coach Mike Maddux about there vacancies at the Manager Postion.

Free Agent Jim Thome will sign with the Philadelphia Phillies.

NCAA Hockey at Fenway

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-03T11:45:43-04:00

Note from www.bostonredsox.com:
At 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 14, the Boston College (BC) Eagles and Northeastern University (NU) Huskies will compete in a men's outdoor hockey game at Fenway Park as part of Sun Life Frozen Fenway 2012, a two week series of ice events. Long-time high school rivals Boston College High School and Catholic Memorial School have also been invited to play a hockey game at Fenway Park on January 14 at 3 p.m. in what would be a single admission doubleheader, pending approval from the respective schools and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA). Tickets will go on sale to the general public at 12 p.m. (noon) on Friday, November 18. Prices start as low as $5 and tickets will be valid for both games.

St. Louis Cardinals

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-03T11:44:54-04:00

Congratulations to the World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals were down to their last out 3 different times in the world series against the Texas Rangers but were not able to come away with the victory. The Cardinals won game 7 6-2, that is after overcoming a 2 run deficit in game 6 in the 10th inning!

On that note congratulations on an excellent career Tony La Russa!, La Russa announced his retirement this week after a 33 year managing career. The Cardinals are scheduled to interview former Red Sox manager Terry Francona at some point this week for the manager job. Albert Pujols is set to become a free agent this year.

Sports Recap this week

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-11-03T11:16:01-04:00

Tuesday Night the Bruins dominated the Ottawa Senators in a 5-3 victory. The Bruins next play Saturday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Bruins are currently last in the East with a record of 4 and 7.

Cubs President Theo Epstein met up with last years Chicago Cubs Manager Mike Quade to inform him he has been fired. Terry Francona and Ryan Sandberg are reportedly not candidates for the position.

The Boston Red Sox have allowed Tim Wakefield, Jason Varitek, Jonathan Papelbon and David Ortiz to hit the free agent market.

Sports Update 10-28-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-28T13:37:45-04:00

The Boston Bruins hosted the Montreal Canadians for a 2 game home series starting Thursday Night and concluding Saturday. The Bruins first round playoff opponent has gotten off to a slow start this season, with a 2-5-2 record, but came out on top Thursday. Thomas Plekanec knocked in a goal for the Canadians 10:46 into the 3rd period to cap off the 2-1 victory over the B's. Bruins and Canadians meet Saturday 7:00pm at the Garden.

The Patriots will head to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers this Sunday. Tom Brady has historically been very successful against the Steelers totaling a 6-1 record since 2001.

Dane Fletcher and Ras-I Dowling did not participate in practice today, 8 other players we limited, the Patriots Also activated Kevin Faulk and 2 other players from the Physically unable to perform list.

The Cardinals sent out Jamie Garcia in St Louis Thursday Night for game 6 of the World Series, The Rangers sent out Colby Lewis. The Texas Rangers found themselves 1 strike away from a world series victory for their 2nd time Thursday Night but could not come through as David Freese hit the game winning homer for the Cardinals in the 11th inning. The Cardinals found themselves down 9-7 in the bottom of the 10th after Josh Hamilton hit a 2 run homer in the top of the 10th for the Rangers, Ryan Theriot and Lance Berkman had base hits in the 10th to drive in 2 runs off Fernando Salas too send the game into the 11th. David Freese would then hit a solo shot in the 11th off of Jamie Garcia to keep the Cardinals alive and send the World Series to game 7 Friday Night.

ESPN SCOREBOARD:
Coverage: FOX
8:05 PM ET, October 27, 2011
Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	R	H	E
TEX	1	1	0	1	1	0	3	0	0	2	0	9	15	2
STL	2	0	0	1	0	1	0	1	2	2	1	10	13	3

W: J. Westbrook (1-0)
L: M. Lowe (0-1)
Game Notes

RANGERS ADRIAN BELTRE AND NELSON CRUZ HIT BACK-TO-BACK HOME RUNS IN THE TOP OF THE SEVENTH INNING.

RANGERS RIGHTFIELDER NELSON CRUZ LEFT THE GAME IN THE BOTTOM OF THE ELEVENTH INNING WITH AN APPARENT INJURY.

CARDINALS LEFTFIELDER MATT HOLLIDAY LEFT THE GAME IN THE TOP OF THE SEVENTH INNING WITH A BRUISED PINKIE.

New Red Sox GM Ben Cherington announced during his introductory press conference that John Lackey will undergo Tommy John Surgery and will miss the entire 2012 season.

Milford/Fitchburg

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-24T15:30:52-04:00

Milford High School fell to the Fitchburg Red Raiders this past Saturday at Medway High School 29-19. Milford went into halftime trailing 21-6 but the offense came out firing on all cylinders in the 2nd half as Chris Casey the starting QB scored a touchdown on a 30 yard run in the 3rd Quarter and Tommy Hythault scored a touchdown in the 4th Quarter on a 14 yard run. Connor Lemieux however would lead the Red Raiders down the field on a key drive in the 4th quarter, which was capped off with a 2 yard touchdown run by Quinton Perkins. Fitchburg Red Raiders put a stop to Chris Casey and the Scarlet Hawks offense on their last drive opportunity to get back in the game and came away with there 4th win of the season. Red Raiders are now 4-3 on the season and (2-0 in Mid-Wach Play), while the Scarlet Hawks fall to 2nd place in Mid-Wach A with a 3-4 record (1-1 in Mid-Wach Play).

Sports Headlines 10/23/2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-22T01:07:27-04:00

We are at the middle of the High School Football season and Friday’s TVL Game of the week on WMRC featured the Hopkinton Hillers and the Holliston Panthers. Hopkinton played without there starting Quarterback Mike Decina. Holliston came out on top in this game as they shutout Hopkinton 20-0. Dan Barone had 3 touchdown runs for the Panthers. Holliston is now tied on top in league play with Westwood, as the Panthers are 2-0 in the league, 5-1 overall.

Westwood bested Medway last night 7-0 to improve too 6-1 and 2-0 in league play. Bo Berluti caught a 10 yard touchdown pass from Alex Berluti.

Millis-Hopedale remains undefeated as they took down Dover-Sherborn in Tri-valley small play. Final score of that game was 28-0. Jim Perkins had 3 touchdown runs for Millis-Hopedale.

In Midwatch Play Shrewsbury over Wachusett 36-29, North Middlesex lost to Hudson 34-19, Marlborough defeated Algonquin 35-14 and Westborough got crushed by Nashoba 57-13.

Tonight the Milford Scarlet Hawks battle the Fitchburg Red Raiders. Milford and Fitchburg are both 3-3 in the season and undefeated in league play. The winner of Fitchburg and Milford will be in first place in Mid-Wach A. Game can be heared tonight on WMRC with coverage starting at 5:45pm, beginning of the game will be available online only until B.C. Football ends, then the game can be found on 1490am.

Talking about B.C. Football, the Boston College Eagles play at 3:00pm today as they take on Virgina Tech who is ranked 12th in the country. B.C. is having a rough season as they are 1-5 and 0-3 in ACC play, Virgina Tech is 6-1 on the season and 2-1 in ACC Play. Coverage starts on WMRC at approximately 2:45 today.

Theo Epstein has officially resigned from the Red Sox and is set to become the new President of the Chicago Cubs, press conference is expected to be held Tuesday, Ben Cherrington will take over as Red Sox G.M.

Game 3 of the World Series is tonight as the Cardinals head to Texas, series is tied 1-1. Kyle Lohse takes the Hill against the Rangers Matt Harrison.

The 3-4 Boston Bruins take on the San Jose Sharks tonight at the Garden game time is 7:00pm.

Earlier this week the Lions and Eagles agreed on a trade that would send RB Ronnie Brown to the Lions and RB Jerome Harrison to the Eagles, but the trade was nullified as it was discovered during a physical that Jerome Harrison had a brain tumor. Jerome Harrison since had surgery and is expected to have had the Brain Tumor removed.

Patriots have a bye week this week but some games going on is the Chargers @ the Jets – 1:00pm start, Tim Tebow gets the start for the Broncos as they take on the Dolphins at 1:00 and Carson Palmer and the Raiders welcome the Chiefs at 4:00. Sunday Night game is the Peyton Manningless Colts at the Saints and on Monday the Ravens battle Jacksonville.

Todays Headlines 10/21/2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-21T11:13:37-04:00

Bruins got their 3rd win of the season as they took down the Toronto Maple Leafs last night 6-2.

Tim Thomas got the start at goalie, he’s now 3-2 on the season.

In the 1st Period Nathan Horton, Zdeno Chara and Chris Kelly all had goals, no one scored in the 2nd period, but in the 3rd period Milan Lucic, Patrice Bergeron and Tyler Seguin knocked in goals for the Bruins.

Mark Bartkowski has been sent back down too providence and Stephen Kampfer is in!

David Krecji saw action last night, he has been out since the early part of the season with a core injury.

According to reports The Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox are finishing up negotiations that would send Theo Epstein to the Cubs. The current hold up appears to be reviewing of medical records of players that the Red Sox would receive in exchange of Epstein. San Diego Padres General Manager Jed Hoyer is expected to join Theo in Chicago and would take over as Cubs GM.

The Texas Rangers and the St. Louis Cardinals played game 2 of the World Series last night, the Cards took game one with a 3-2 Victory, but in game 2 the Rangers struck back scoring 2 runs in the 9th to take game 2 2-1 and tie up the Fall Classic at 1.

Colby Lewis for the Rangers went 6.2 IP and gave up 4 hits and 1 run while Jamie Garcia went 7 scoreless innings for the Cardinals. Josh Hamilton and Michael Young both had sacrifice hits in the 9th to drive in runs. Jason Motte gave up both runs, only 1 run was earned.

A trade that would have sent Running back Ronnie Brown to the Lions has been voided after Jerome Harrison, the player that Brown was being traded for, failed his Phycial, reports are now that a Brain tumor was discovered during Harrisons Physical.

Latest Former and Past Red Sox Quotes

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-21T11:06:09-04:00

The situation down on Yawkey Way keeps getting worse and worse, after accusations that Jon Lester, Josh Beckett and John Lackey were eating fried Chicken and Drinking Beer in the club house, quotes from Jon Lester pretty much confirmed it, Curt Schilling slammed the Sox and Johnny Damon avoided every question he was asked. The quotes from this past week are below.

Jon Lesters Comments:
There’s a perception out there that we were up there getting hammered and that wasn’t the case. Was it a bad habit? Yes. I should have been on the bench more than I was. But we just played bad baseball as a team in September. We stunk. To be honest, we were doing the same things all season when we had the best record in baseball.”
Lester went on to say that the Fried Chicken was a once a month event and that the beers were specifically 9th inning rally beers.

Schilling responding to Lesters Comments
Ex-Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling called Jon Lester's comments to Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe about the Sox needing "more structure" than Terry Francona providing "embarrassing and . . . sad", because it showed a lack of maturity on the parts of the players, and that the 2011 Sox had "no leadership whatsoever in that clubhouse".

"That kind of boggles my mind that [Lester] said that, because at the end of the day, these are grown men," Schilling said on WEEI Radio's 'Mut and Merloni' Show. "Do you need a manager to tell you? They all knew, and you always know, when you’re doing something questionable or wrong.

"They chose not to correct it, and because they chose not to correct it, I think some of them were absolutely not in good enough shape to pitch through September and help them win games.

Schilling went on to add: "That’s sad. That’s embarrassing, and that’s sad. That basically says, at the age of 28, 29, 30, I need an adult more mature than me to give me rules and guidelines. ... That’s sad, because that’s why we won World Series. We won those World Series because [Francona] was that way, because he allowed us to police ourselves. What it says to me even more clearly, they have no leadership whatsoever in that clubhouse."

By Peter Abraham, Boston Globe Staff

Johnny Damon, a player who knows a thing or two about winning and good team chemistry, was on WDAE in Tampa today and talked about the news coming out of Boston.

Question: "There was a report out of Boston that Josh Beckett was one of three Red Sox pitchers that drank beer in the dugout this season. Did that happen in 2004 when you were with the Red Sox as well? Your thoughts on Terry Francona not being the Red Sox manager any longer?"

Damon: “Terry Francona to me is a great manager, but sometimes the players in the clubhouse also help smooth things out. The players probably should have known a bit better to respect the game a bit. There are teams that I have been on before that have tried to get a rally going [by having a beer] or obviously the guys who aren’t playing in a game, but it’s unfortunate. I think Jon Lester called it a ‘witch hunt,’ and trying to play the blame game. They just had a bad September. Nobody wants to go through that.

"Unfortunately when you are in the Boston market and that happens and you don’t make the playoffs things change and there is a lot of changes going on there right now, especially with the team that was supposed to win the World Series. We were happy because of their demise. It got us into the playoffs and gave us a chance to possibly do something great, so unfortunately that is how that market is. David Ortiz said too that there is drama every single day.”

Question: "So did the beer drinking in the clubhouse and dugout happen in 2004? Or is the media just making too big of a deal about it?"

Damon: “The thing is in 2004 we had such a great chemistry in the locker room that people had each other’s back. If the media was blowing up a player we had guys like Kevin Millar or guys like myself and Bill Mueller, who would step up and take the bullet and protect players and that’s very important to a team. I felt like every time we lost a game this year it was on me because I didn’t get that hit in the first inning or didn’t have a good base running play in the third. I learned early to be accountable even when you don’t have to be accountable and because of that over time it has made me a better player and an even better teammate.”

Friday Madness!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-20T00:39:33-04:00

Big Time High School Football Realignment News

-The MIAA Football Committee is currently discussing the possibility of having a statewide football tournament. This discussion has put a hold on division realignments for the 2013 season. The Massachusetts State Football Coaches Association has brought up a new proposal. Fitchburg athletic director and Coaches Association Ray Cosenza said the new plan should be an improvement on the old plan. The new plan is expected to preserve leagues and allow additional teams to qualify for the postseason. With this plan High School Football will finish with six true state champions.

Football This Week
Marlborough@Algonquin
Northmiddlesex@Hudson
Westborough@Nashoba
Wachusett@Shrewsbury
North Middlesex@Hudson
North Quincy @ Duxbury
Southbrige @ Leicester
Holliston@ Hopkinton - WMRC
Medway@Westwood
Bellingham@Ashland
Millis/Hopedale@Dover-Sherborn
#15 Billerica@Haverhill
Boston Latin @ #7 Lincoln-Sudbury
#8 Chelmsford @ Dracut
Cranston West, Ri @ #6 Dennis-Yarmouth
#16 King Phillip @ Foxborough
Methuen @ #13 Andover
Oliver Ames @ #4 Mansfield
St Johns-Shrewsbury @ Leominster
Stoughton @ Attleboro
Sat 6:00PM Fitchburg @ Milford - WMRC

In Boys Cross Country This Friday
Norfolk Aggie is at @ Blackstone Valley

In Field Hockey Action
Hopedale @ Blackstone-Ville
Sutton @ Nipmuc
Burncoat@Worcester South
Shrewsbury@Fitchburg
Wachusett@Algonquin
Westboro@Nashoba
Quabbin@Oakmont
Hudson@Gardner

High School Sports Action!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-19T21:26:00-04:00

Catch the High School Sports Show Every Thursday at 8:00pm Right Here on MSEN!

On Wednesday the Marlboro Panthers girls volleyball team improved to 13 and 0 knocking off the Milford Scarlet Hawks in a 3-0 sweep. Marlboro has only lost one set all year!

Panthers Coach Pete Lepore said to the Milford Daily News after the game "I was talking to a (former player) after the game who was on the 2003, 2004 state championship team, and she said as long as you get the serves in there, your kids block just as good our team. That was kind of the strategy, get it in and let the defense do its work."

- The Hudson Hawks Golf Team are the Champions of the Mid-Wachusett B League as they won on Wednesday 3 points ahead of runner-up Quabbin.

In Other Golf Action Hopedale swept the DVC Meet and Medfield swept the Tri-Meet and the Franklin Squad buried visiting Stoughton 144-175.

In Girls Volleyball
Franklin over Attleboro
Marian over Trinity Catholic
Algonquin over Shrewsbury
Westborough over North Middlesex
Hudson Over Ayer

In Swimming
Framingham over Norwood
Milford over Notre Dame Worcester

Must Read Articles!!!!!!!!
Possible Realignment in MIAA Football
Marlboro Eyes Record Book

Week 7 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-19T11:31:05-04:00

NFL Week 6
Bills - 24 Giants - 27
Colts - 17 Bengals - 27
Jaguars - 13 Steelers - 17
Eagles - 20 Redskins - 13
49ers - 25 Lions - 19
Rams - 3 Packers - 24
Panthers - 17 Falcons - 31
Browns - 17 Raiders - 24
Texans - 14 Ravens - 29
Saints - 20 Bucs - 26
Dallas - 16 Pats - 20
Vikings - 10 Bears - 39
Dolphins - 6 Jets - 24

Take a look at these final scores and read more for Craig's Power Rankings and all the Latest News about your favorite NFL Team!

Jim Schwartz, Jim Harbaugh draw scuffle after 49ers defeat Lions

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-18T10:54:24-04:00

Jess Dempsey:

After the San Francisco 49ers dealt the Detroit Lions their first loss on the season, 49ers Coach Jim Harbaugh trotted happily over to Lions Coach Jim Schwartz for the traditional coaches’ handshake and gave him a strong grip and spirited pat on the back. Then we see Schwartz turn around with fire in his eyes and chase after Harbaugh, bumping Harbaugh’s shoulder with his. As a growing number of players from both sides rally around their coaches, we see Schwartz continue to follow Harbaugh.

Schwartz refuses any culpability in the incident, saying:

“I went to congratulate Coach Harbaugh and got shoved out of the way,” Schwartz said. “And then I didn’t expect an obscenity at that point, so it was a surprise to me at the end of the game.”

I’ve seen the video several times, and don’t clearly see an obscenity being mouthed by Harbaugh. Regardless, it seems that Schwartz was already upset by his team’s first loss of the season and Harbaugh’s overzealous contact threw him into a fit. But that is no excuse for Schwartz’s behavior. This is a passionate game, and Schwartz should know that as his overreactions on the sideline this season have been plentiful – cursing at players and referees alike. Hypocritical much? Perhaps.

What should be mentioned is Harbaugh’s statement after the game. He said, simply:

“That is totally on me,” Harbaugh said. “I shook his hand too hard. I really went in, and it was a strong, kind of a slap-grab handshake.”

A classy statement to be sure, but no expletive or overzealous pat could warrant Schwartz’s inappropriate reaction. Being an NFL coach, you need to behave with a certain measure of integrity and class, which may in some instances require ignoring barbs and insults. Because, as the leader of your team, you set a very powerful example. What does it say to the Lions that their Coach could not maintain his composure in this situation?

We may have more information tomorrow from the league about whether an investigation will occur or if the coaches will face any fines.

Tuesdays Headlines:
Carson Palmer traded to the Raiders for two first round draft picks
Brandon Lloyd to the Rams for 5th or 6th round draft pick
Jon Lester say's the Red Sox only drank beer and ate fried chicken in the clubhouse once a month
Jets crush the Dolphins on Monday Night Football 24-6
Jim Scwarts, Jim Hardbaugh not fined after confrontation

St. Louis Cardinals to the World Series

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-17T00:01:37-04:00

The St. Louis Cardinals have advanced to the World Series as they took down the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday Night 12-6 to win the NLCS 4-2. David Freese, Rafael Furcal and Albert Pujols all had homers. David Freese drove in 3 Runs. Marc Rzepczynski got the win as Shawn Marcum got the Loss. The St. Louis Cardinals will take on the Texas Rangers in the 2011 World Series! This is the St. Louis Cardinals 3rd appearance in the World Series in the 2k decade and first since winning the 2006 World Series against the Detroit Tigers!

ESPN SCOREBOARD:

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
STL	4	1	4	0	2	0	0	1	0	12	14	0
MIL	1	3	0	1	1	0	0	0	0	6	7	3

High School Football Saturday Finals

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-16T16:09:38-04:00

Sat 1:30pm Milford - 7 @ Holy Name - 18
Quron Wright and Jeff Holland scored rushing touchdowns while Nick Capuano recovered a fumble in the end zone as the host Naps jumped out to an 18-0 lead to topple the Scarlet Hawks. Chris Casey scored on a 4-yard run for Milford.

Sat 6:00pm Bellingham - 26 @ Medfield - 6
Sat 5:00pm Leicester - 0 @ Auburn - 19
Sat 2:00pm Nashoba - 24 @ Clinton - 0
Sat 2:00pm Shrewsbury - 25 @ Westborough - 14
Sat 2:00pm Westhill (Conn) - 0 @ Franklin - 21
Attleboro - 7 #5 Mansfield - 28
North Attleborough - 7 #20 King Phillip - 19
#4 Xaverian - 21 #1 Everett - 42
Worcester South - 15 Doherty - 43
#7 Andover - 28 #12 Chelmsford - 48
Blackstone Valley - 21 Monty Tech - 7
Northbridge - 28 Nipmuc - 34
St. Johns Prep - 41 St. Johns-Shrewsbury - 20

More Scores Available at The Boston Globe Website

Patriots Update

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-16T15:34:25-04:00

Ras-I Dowling, Julian Edelmen, Jerrod Mayo and Sebastian Vollmer among Patriots in-actives for there 4:15 game today against the Dallas Cowboys. The New England Patriots are 4 and 1 heading into todays game, while the Dallas Cowboys are a disappointing 2 and 2 hanging on to 3rd place in the NFC East.

The Dallas Cowboys also have some significant injuries as Miles Austin, Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, Felix Jones and CB Orlando Scandrick are banged up. All 5 however are expected to play. Dez Bryant says "I am ready to return punts again". Miles Austin declared himself "100% Healthy" after missing the past 2 games with a hamstring injury.

Boston Bruins get 2nd win of season

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-16T14:23:54-04:00

The Stanley Cup hangover appears to be coming to an end as The Boston Bruins got there 2nd win of the Season last night as they took down the Chicago Blackhawks in an overtime shootout victory. The Bruins won the game 3-2. Nathan Horton and Chris Kelly both had goals in the Bruins victory. Tim Thomas had 27 saves and a .931 save percentage for the game. The Bruins are now 2-3-0 on the season and have 4 points. Bruins won the shootout 1-0. The Bruins Blackhawks was a matchup of the previous 2 Stanley Cup Champions.

The Boston Bruins next play Tuesday at the Garden against the Carolina Hurricanes who they have already lost to once this season.

Texas Rangers to the World Series!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-16T14:04:40-04:00

The Texas Rangers have advanced to there 2nd straight World Series after they took down the Detroit Tigers Last Night in Game 6 of the ALCS 15-5. Michael Young and Nelson Cruz both hit Home Runs off of Brad Penny in the 7th.

The game took a turn for the worst for the Detroit Tigers as a 9 run 3rd inning for the Rangers capped things off. Michael Young started with a double which would drive in Elvis Andrus and Josh Hamilton. Adrian Beltre would then single to Center to drive in Michael Young. David Murphy then singled to center to drive in Beltre and Nopoli. Ian Kinsler would continue the 3rd inning rally with a single to left to drive in 2 more runs and then Michael Young in his second at bat of the inning would double to right field which drove in Kinsler and Andrus.

The Texas Rangers will advance to the World Series for there 2nd year in a row and will take on the winner of the NLCS either the Milwaukee Brewers or St. Louis Cardinals. The National League winner will have home field advantage as they won the All Star Game.

ESPN SCOREBOARD

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
DET	1	1	0	0	2	0	0	1	0	5	10	2
TEX	0	0	9	0	1	2	3	0	-	15	17	0

W: A. Ogando (2-0)
L: M. Scherzer (0-1)

R.I.P. Al Davis (1929-2011)

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-15T12:27:11-04:00

Al Davis, legendary NFL owner, commissioner and deal-maker, passed away last week. The tributes to the stoic pro football mainstay have flooded into ESPN, Fox Sports and many blogs. But we have also heard about the not-so-nice side of Al Davis. As a man who “demanded excellence” from players and personnel, he did not seem to demand the same from himself as the Raiders had merely merely a handful of winning seasons in the last 20 years. The team’s facilities were also among the worst in the NFL.
What good can be said about Al Davis? Well, for one, he was an innovator who had a great eye for scouting up-and-coming talent like Jim Plunkett, who Davis scooped up after the San Francisco 49ers released him in 1977. Most importantly, in my view, he was color-blind in his hiring practices during a time when most NFL owners were rich old white men who thought diversity belonged only belonged on the field. Davis hired the first Latino and African-American coaches, and first female CEO in the National Football League.
But as loyal as he was to his team, he could also turn on you in the blink of an eye. An old curmudgeon, Davis often berated players and members of the press for no specific reason – he had a cantankerous personality and was quick-tempered. Bill Belichick shows more joy and emotion than did Al Davis.
Despite misgivings about him, we should remember the contributions he made to the game, and the league as a whole. After all, he played an interesting role in the AFL-NFL merger – an absolutely fascinating story if you have the time.
On Sunday, the Oakland Raiders beat the Houston Texans 25-20 in an emotional victory that rang true to Davis’ famous demand, “Win, baby win.”

Braylon Edwards, Ochostinko Tweet!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-15T12:22:16-04:00

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Braylon Edwards and New England Patriots WR Chad Ochocinco set twitter ablaze yesterday when they both made controversial tweets.
Ochocinco got riled up by several Boston fans who tweeted barbs to the celebrity football player about his recent play (or lack thereof). Ocho lost his cool and replied with profanity-laced tweets to the fans. If you can’t handle criticism with class, especially in a city like Boston, where fans are extremely vocal and brash, then you should not be on social networking sites. People in the public eye are especially susceptible to criticism, and if you play professional sports, making an obscene amount of money each year, you can (and should) expect that fans barely scraping by with their 9 to 5 job are going to razz you for disappointing performance. It’s not just a Boston thing, it’s a sports fan thing. You’re paid well, we expect you to earn that paycheck. That being said, I think Ocho is very talented – and as such he is a role model. Thankfully, he deleted those tweets minutes after posting them.
Braylon Edwards (@OfficialBraylon) tweeted last night, “You can’t be a fat chick and wear a skin tight dress. I almost lost my dinner.” Well, Braylon, if “fat chicks” shouldn’t be able to wear tight dresses, NFL players who are arrested for DWI and who are STILL currently on probation as a result of the incident should not be allowed to play. If that was the case, you’d be benched, sir. Also, your team, the San Francisco 49ers, is doing very well this year, but don’t let that go to your head. You still cannot get away with insulting women. How did your Mama raise you?
If the NFL isn’t careful, it’s going to become known as a league that allows idiots who shoot themselves, run dog fighting rings and drive under the influence to play and earn ridiculous salaries. I am not an advocate of many regulations, but I think implementing a league-wide code of conduct would do well to discourage bad behavior. You violate the rules or get arrested, you’re out. Have a blast living on $30,000 a year. News outlets should not hire these players either. In a world where us regular folk have to deal with consequences every day, it would be nice to know that athletes are held to a high standard as well.
Also a message to Braylon Edwards:
Your stats thus far this season: 4 receptions, 48 yards, 0 touchdowns.
Methinks you should spend more time at practice and with your playbook and less time commenting on women you may see out. Your stats make 49ers fans unable to eat their dinners.

Scores from Friday Oct 15

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-15T01:34:42-04:00

The Cardinals go up 3-2 in the NLCS as they took down the Brewers 7-1 Pujols, Holliday and Molina pitched in with RBI's. Octavio Dotel got the win.

Dover-Sherborn - 13 Medway - 34

Jack mcNamara ran 43 yards for a TD in the first quarter and the Mustangs never looked back in a rout of the Raiders. Greg Amato and Ryan Bukis also pitched in with touchdowns!

Other High School Finals
Brookline (0-6) - 6 Framingham H.S. (3-3) - 30
#17 Weymouth (4-2) - 21 Natick (5-1) - 28
Somerville (1-5) - 7 Medford (1-5) - 0
Foxborough (3-3) - 9 Oliver Ames (4-1) - 17
Marlborough (3-3) - 0 BC High (4-2) - 32
#2 Duxbury (6-0) - 21 Scituate (3-3) - 0
Fitchburg (3-3) - 38 North Middlesex (1-5) - 0
Hopkinton (6-0) - 42 Norwood (3-3) - 21
Algonquin (1-5) - 6 Leominster (3-3) - 21
Millis/Hopedale (6-0) - 12 Westwood (5-1) - 7
Sat 6:00pm Bellingham @ Medfield
Sat 5:00pm Leicester @ Auburn
Sat 1:30pm Milford @ Holy Name
Sat 2:00pm Nashoba @ Clinton
Sat 2:00pm Shrewsbury @ Westborough
Sat 2:00pm Westhill (Conn) @ Franklin

Red Sox Update

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-14T01:35:34-04:00

The Red Sox May Be Looking to add a new General Manger as well as a field manager. Various reports state that Theo Epstein has agreed to a 5 year 15 million dollar deal with the Chicago Cubs, an addition 5 million dollars will be paid to Epstein by the Cubs because he is technically still owed 5 million dollars in the final year of his contract with the Red Sox. The Deal will not be complete until the Cubs give the Red Sox some form of compensation for the Red Sox in the form of a Cash and/or a player.

Yahoo Sports Reports The Red Sox have already informed Ben Cherington he will be the Red Sox New General Manager

Week 6 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-14T01:18:28-04:00

NFL Week 5
Bills - 31 Eagles - 24
Chiefs - 28 Colts - 24
Cardinals - 10 Vikings - 34
Seahawks - 36 Giants - 25
Titans - 17 Steelers - 38
Saints - 30 Panthers - 27
Bengals - 30 Jaguars - 20
Raiders - 25 Texans - 20
Bucs - 3 49ers - 48
Chargers - 29 Broncos - 24
Jets - 21 Patriots - 30
Packers - 25 Falcons - 14
Bears - 13 Lions - 24

Take a look at these final scores and read more for Craig's Power Rankings and all the Latest News about your favorite NFL Team!

Sports News 10-14-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-14T01:11:38-04:00

The Tigers had their ace on the Hill tonight as they try to catch up in their series against the Rangers Series is now 3-2 Texas after Detroit pulled off a 7-5 win tonight

The Brewers took on St. Louis tonight in game 4 of their series tonight, Kyle Loshe pitched for the Cardinals and Randy Wolf went for the Brewers. The Brewers pulled off a 4-2 victory to tie the series at 2-2.

The New England Patriots practiced today as they prepared to face the Dallas Cowboys. Jerod Mayo, Josh Barret, Ben Jarvis Green Ellis, and Vince Wilfork were all Missing From Practice. Patriots placed Defensive lineman Mike Wright has been placed on season Ending Injured Reserve with a Concussion.

Bruins lost to Carolina last night and fall to 1-3 on the season, the Bruins next play on Saturday at 8:30 against the Chicago Blackhawks. David Krecji did not make the trip as he continues to deal with a core injury.

NBA commissioner David Stern cancelled the first two weeks of the Regular season, Stern said this afternoon that if a new CBA is not reached by the middle of next week, then games will be cancelled for the remainder of this calendar year.

Sports News 10-13-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-13T00:06:32-04:00

Nelson Cruz hits a 3 Run Homer in the 11th to help the Texas Rangers go up 3-1 in the ALCS as the Rangers cruise to a 7-3 victory.

The St. Louis Cardinals are up 2-1 in the NLCS after they defeat the Brewers 4-3. Chris Carpenter bests Yovani Gollardo.

A team source told the newspaper that Terry Francona was distracted by marital issues and his use of pain medication last season, allegations the former Red Sox manager has strongly denied.
"It makes me angry that people say these things because I've busted my (butt) to be the best manager I can be," Francona said when the Globe presented him with its findings. "I wasn't terribly successful this year, but I worked harder and spent more time at the ballpark this year than I ever did."
Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia had plenty to say. Speaking to WEEI from vacation in Mexico he couldn't believe someone from the organization would talk that way about Francona, who "had everyone's back since Day 1."
"He's protected every single guy in that clubhouse and that's why I respect him like you can't believe," Pedroia said. "Whatever job he gets, if he needs me for a couple of games or whatever just let me know, I'll go play for free. That's how I care about this guy. This guy is my family.
"For him to have to deal with this, he's the best manager in the history of the Red Sox organization. He won two World Series, look at the run that he had there, it's pretty remarkable. That's the part that hurts and whoever the person it is that's saying this I think they need to take a step back and kind of look in the mirror and understand what they're saying about a guy. A lot of guys in this organization have his back and I'm one of them."
Papi out of Beantown Next Year?
Espn Article:
Longtime Boston Red Sox slugger and free-agent-to-be David Ortiz spoke about the possibility of signing with the AL East rival New York Yankees during an interview Wednesday with ESPN's Colleen Dominguez, after expressing frustration with the state of the Red Sox, who've seen manager Terry Francona and general manager Theo Epstein leave in the wake of the team's September collapse.
"There's too much drama, man," Ortiz told Dominguez in reference to the Red Sox. "There's too much drama. I have been thinking about a lot of things. I don't know if I want to be part of this drama for next year."

Boston Bruins fall to 1-3 as they lost to the Carolina Hurricanes Wednesday 3-2

Sports News 10-12-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-12T13:18:52-04:00

The Chicago Cubs have reportedly agreed with Theo Epstein on a 5 year close to $20 Million Dollar Deal for Theo to become the new President of the Cubs.

The Boston Globe has released an article written by Bob Hohler which digs into the problems with the Red Sox ownership, atmosphere in the club house and accuses certain players of being careless to the team.
"The indifference of Beckett, Lester, and Lackey in a time of crisis can be seen in what team sources say became their habit of drinking beer, eating fast-food fried chicken, and playing video games in the clubhouse during games while their teammates tried to salvage a once-promising season."

Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony have mentioned that players may start their own league if NBA Lock Out wipes out the 2011-2012 NBA Season.

Tigers win game three 5-2 against the Rangers on Tuesday and now trail 2-1 in the Best of 7 ALCS.
Game 4 is this afternoon at 4:15pm

The Cardinals and Brewers are knotted up at 1-1 in the NLCS, Game 4 is tonight at 8:05 PM.

The New York Jets have traded WR Derrik Mason to the Houston Texans for an undisclosed 3rd Round Draft Pick

Looking for a fun Read Check out Jessica Dempsey's article about the Come Back Kids, The Detroit Lions! Click Read More for Article!

Sports Update October 10th 2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-10T23:33:59-04:00

Nelson Cruz hits a walk off grand slam and the Texan Rangers take a 2 game lead over the Tigers after Monday Night's 7-3 victory!

Meetings between the NBA players and owners are over, sides remain very far apart, The First two Weeks of the NBA season have officially been Cancelled.

Colorado Avalanche take down the Boston Bruins 1-0. The Bruins are now 1-2 on the season and head to Carolina to take on the Hurricanes Wednesday Night at 7:30.

The red hot St. Louis Cardinals took down the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 2 12-3 to tie up the NLCS at 1-1.

The Detroit Lions beat up on the Chicago Bears on the first Monday Night Football game in Detroit since 2001, 24-13 and the Lions are now 5 and 0 for their first time since 1956.

Finals from Sat and Sun

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-10T10:50:34-04:00

The New England Patriots Win there 19th straight regular season Home Game against the New York Jets 30-21

The 1 and 1 Boston Bruins take on the Colorado Avalanche at home on this Columbus Day. Gametime is 1:00pm

Milford High loses there 2nd game of the season as St. Peter Marian proves to be to much for them.

St. Peter Marian - 19 Milford - 14

Senior running back Tre Watson carried 19 times for 71 hard-fought yards and scored two touchdowns, including the decisive one, to lead the visiting Guardians.

Monday Night Football this week features the 2 and 2 Chicago Bears taking on the 4 and 0 Detroit Lions at Ford Field in Detroit.

Boston Bruins Play Today!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-08T00:00:14-04:00

---The Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins are back in action today after suffering a loss to the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 1 of the Season, The Bruins take on the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Garden tonight at 7pm.

Patriots VS. Jets Round 1

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-07T23:58:46-04:00

---This Sunday the New England Patriots welcome there arch nemesis New York Jets to Gillette Stadium, game time is at 4:15.

---Good News for the Jets as Center Nick Mangold, Wide Receiver Plaxico Burress and Linebacker Calvin Pace seem like they will be available to play Sunday.

---As for the Patriots Corner Back Aaron Hernandez is listed as doubtful with an MCL Sprain, but on the good side of things Albert Haynesworth will most likely play after he practiced for 2 straight days, Danny Woodhead is also going to try to give it a go as he has been battling an ankle injury. Defensive Lineman Mike Wright was also dressed for practice yesterday and will most likely be available to play against the Jets this Sunday.

1st Round 2011 MLB Playoffs

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-07T23:50:48-04:00

--In the MLB playoffs the New York Yankees were eliminated earlier this week by the Detroit Tigers, The Tampa Bay Rays were also eliminated by the Texas Rangers.

---Last night the Milwaukee Brewers took down the Arizona Diamondbacks winning game 5 3-2, the game went 10 innings.

---The St. Louis Cardinals finished off the Philadelphia Phillies 1-0 in game 5 to knock them out and shock the world.

---The ALCS is set to begin tonight at 8pm as the Detroit Tigers send Justin Verlander to the mound to take on the Texas Rangers C.J. Wilson.

High School Football Saturday 10-8!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-07T23:45:24-04:00

---The 3-1 Milford Scarlet Hawks football squad is set to take on 3-1 St. Peter Marian at their home away from home Medway High School. Game time is today at 6pm, coverage can be heard on WMRC starting at 5:45pm.

---Some High School Football action took place Thursday this week as Millis-Hopedale knocked down Ashland 39-7, Framingham took down Braintree 36-6, Westboro beat up on North-Middlesex 47-20, Franklin lost to Foxboro 29-21, Holliston crushed Bellingham 51-30 and Medway took down Norton 35-6.

---In Fridays action Nashoba took down Marlborough 26-17, Narragansett took down West Boylston 21-14

---Auburn’s 41 game winning streak came to an end as they fell to Shepard Hill 32-22.

--In vocational School action Blackstone Valley took down Keefe Tech 35-20.

--If your looking for some Early Afternoon High School Football action today Bartlett is at Uxbridge with a 1pm start time.

Sports News 10/7/2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-07T02:09:44-04:00

High School Football Action Tonight Thursday 10-6-2011!

Millis-Hopedale - 39 Ashland - 7
Framingham - 36 Braintree - 6
Norwood - 0 #13 Walpole - 13
#8 Lincoln-Sudbury - 49 Waltham - 6
Westboro - 47 North-Middlesex - 20
Westwood - 28 Medfield - 7
Franklin - 21 Foxboro - 29
Holliston - 51 Bellingham - 30
Dover-Sherborn - 7 Hopkinton - 28
#20 King Phillip - 28 Oliver-Ames - 13
Mansfield - 49 Sharon - 19
Norton - 6 Medway - 35
Natick - 49 Dedham - 19
Stoughton - 21 North Attleborough - 22

IS THERE A TEAM YOU WANT FOLLOWED OR BROADCASTED LET US KNOW! MASPORTSWEB@GMAIL.COM or Email the Owner Directly TNappi@masportsweb.com

The Boston Bruins drop their season opener against The Philadelphia Flyers 2-1, Brad Marchand the only goal for the Bruins.

The Detroit Tigers knock out the New York Yankees as they win game 5 of the ALDS 3-2.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
DET	2	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	3	8	0
NYY	0	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	2	10	0

W: D. Fister (1-1)
L: I. Nova (1-1)
S: J. Valverde (2)

Former White Sox 3B Robin Ventura to take over as Chicago White Sox Manager in place of Ozzie Guillen

Other Stories
Peyton Manning Still Hopes to Play in 2011
3-1 Milford High School Battles St. Peter Marian Saturday at 6pm
Miami Dolphins QB Chad Henne Out for the Season
Boston Bruins Lift Stanley Cup Banner
Terry Francona to take Color Announcing Role for ALCS

Week 5 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-07T01:44:48-04:00

NFL Week 4
Panthers - 29 Bears - 34
Bills - 20 Bengals - 23
Titans - 31 Cleveland - 13
Detroit- 34 Cowboys - 30
Vikings - 17 Chiefs - 22
Redskins - 17 Rams - 10
49ers - 24 Eagles - 23
Saints - 23 Jaguars - 10
Steelers - 10 Texans - 17
Giants - 31 Cardinals - 27
Falcons - 30 Seahawks - 28
Denver - 23 Packers - 49
Patriots - 31 Raiders - 19
Dolphins - 16 Chargers - 26
Jets - 17 Ravens - 34
Colts - 17 Bucs - 24

Take a look at these final scores and read more for Craig's Power Rankings and all the Latest News about your favorite NFL Team!

Division III College Football

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-01T19:02:38-04:00

Framingham State Rams shut out Mass. Maritime 26-0
Scoring Summary (Final)
2011 Framingham State Football
Framingham State vs Mass. Maritime (Oct 01, 2011 at Buzzards Bay, Mass.)
Framingham State (3-2,2-0) vs. Mass. Maritime (2-2,0-2)
Date: Oct 01, 2011 • Site: Buzzards Bay, Mass. • Stadium: Clean Harbors • Attendance: 774

Worcester State remains perfect as they take down Maine Maritime 39-26
Scoring Summary (Final)
2011 Worcester State Football
Maine Maritime vs Worcester State (Oct 01, 2011 at Worcester, MA)

Maine Maritime (3-1,1-1) vs. Worcester State (5-0,2-0)
Date: Oct 01, 2011 Site: Worcester, MA Stadium: Coughlin Field
Attendance: 1750

Westfield State Gets Huge Win against Bridgewater 10-7
Scoring Summary (Final)
2011 Westfield State Football
Westfield State vs Bridgewater State (Sep 30, 2011 at Bridgewater, Mass.)
Westfield State (2-3,1-1) vs. Bridgewater State (2-2,0-2)
Date: Sep 30, 2011 • Site: Bridgewater, Mass. • Stadium: Swenson Field • Attendance: 2000

High School Sports Update

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-10-01T18:06:46-04:00

The Milford defense shuts down Westborough High School 14-0

St Johns-Shrewsbury (3-1) - 21 Wachusett (1-3) - 7
Drew Ortone caught a 46-yard touchdown pass and returned an interception 75 yards for another score while Connor Kurtz threw two touchdown passes to lead the host Pioneers past the Mountaineers. Kurtz connected with freshman Taquar Stewart for a 29-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter to put St. John's up, 21-0. Sammy Rivera scored a 5-yard touchdown for Wachusett.

St. Peter-Marian improves to 3-1 as they knock Algonquin down to 1-3 in an offensive explosion 46-25

Greater Lawrence (3-1) - 20 Brighton (1-2) - 6

Jonathan Montero's 33-yard touchdown run broke a scoreless tie in the second quarter, and Christian Rivera's 45-yard interception return extended the lead for the Reggies. Bengals' Jonathan Marrero fired a 51-yard TD strike to Damian Robinson in the fourth quarter. Rivera added a 24-yard touchdown run to seal the victory.

#15 Walpole (4-0) - 41 Milton (0-4) - 3
The Wildcats opened with a 32-yard field goal, but didn't score again. The Rebels' Tom Donnellan threw a 54-yard pass to David Thibault, one of Donnellan's three TDs. He finished with 202 passing yards. Shane Blass carried the ball 13 times for 122 yards and one touchdown.

Hopkinton (4-0) - 21 Weston - 14
Mike Decina ran for two touchdowns and threw for another to lead the Hillers.

Auburn High School picks up there 41st win in a row as they shut out Millbury 28-0

Other Scores from around Massachusetts High School Football
Ashland - 0 @ Medway - 48
Natick - 34 @ Newton North - 12
#6 Dennis-Yarmouth - 41 @ Falmouth - 8
#7 Mansfield - 27 @ #17 King Phillip - 26
Franklin - 3 @ North Attleborough - 7
Hull -7 @ East Bridgewater - 28
Carver - 6 @ Cohasset - 49
Holliston - 42 @ Medfield - 14
Dover-Sherborn - 33 @ Bellingham - 20
Haverhill - 14 @ #8 Andover - 24
#19 Billerica - 40 @ #11 Dracut - 14
Woburn - 26 @ Burlington - 34
#12 Catholic Memorial - 42 @ Bishop Guertin - 0
#14 Chelmsford - 42 @ Lawrence - 16
Medford - 6 @ Dedham - 21
Leicester - 18 @ Grafton - 34
Leominster - 56 @ North Middlesex - 20
Millis/Hopedale - 49 @ Marian - 8
Southbridge - 0 @ Northbridge - 24
St. Bernards - 32 @ West Boylston - 22
Worcester North - 14 @ Worcester Tech - 20

Want a specific team covered weekly? Let us know masportsweb@gmail.com
More Scores Available on the Boston Globe Website Boston.Com

Sports News 9-29-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-29T17:35:45-04:00

The Red Sox are out of the Playoff picture as they lost to the Balitmore Orioles last night in the Regualar season finale, The Red Sox had a 3-2 lead in the ninth until Jonathan Paplebon gave up a Nolan Reimold ground rule double to deep center and the next batter Robert Andino seemed to had flown out to left, however Carl Crawford bobbled the catch and the Orioles went on to win 4-3

And down in Tampa the Rays trailed the Yankees 7 to nothing but came roaring back in the late innings to tie the score at 7 in the ninth, this game would conclude in the 12th inning, where minutes after the Red Sox had lost to Baltimore, Evan Longoria hit his second home run of the night and clinched the Wild card for the Rays.

This is the second year in a row the Red Sox have not made the playoffs, something they have not done since the 2001 and 2002 seasons

The Playoffs start tommorow night with The Rays Heading to Texas to take on the Rangers and The Detriot Tigers heading to New York take on the Yankees

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The New England Patriots Try to shake off their first defeat of the season as they head to Oakland to take on the Raiders. Logan Makins Returned to Practice after sitting out Wensday with an illness. Missing Practice were Albert Haynsworth (Back) Mike Wright (Concussion) Aaron Hernedez (Knee) and Sebastion Vollmer (back)

Tim Thomas will make his Preseason debut for Boston as the Bruins take on the Senotars and Nathan Horton is expected back in the lineup for the first time since suffering a concussion in the Stanley Cup Playoffs agasint Vancuver. The Regular Season Kicks off one week from tonight as the Bruins open up their season with a three game homestand againts the Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Colarado Avalanche

NBA commissioner David Stern is planning to threaten players with the cancellation of the entire 2011-12 season if the sides haven't made major progress toward a deal by the end of the weekend. The Players view this as just a negotiating tactic.

One NBA player with Job Security however may be LA Laker Kobe Bryant who said that if the NBA lockout holds over into the season and games are lost, it quote "Very Possible" that he will play in the Italian Basketball Leauge team Virtus Bologna. The Team is offerning 2.5 million dollars for Kobe to play 10 games over 40 days.

This has been Craig D'Alessandro with your Sports Report catch the Sports Blast on www.masportsweb.com

Craigs Week 4 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-27T21:45:59-04:00

NFL Week 3
Patriots - 31 Bills - 34
S.F. 49ers - 13 Cincinatti - 8
Miami - 16 Cleveland - 17
Denver - 14 Titans - 17
Detroit - 26 Minnesota - 23
Houston - 33 New Orleans - 40
NY Giants - 29 Eagles - 16
Jacksonville - 10 Carolina - 16
NY Jets - 24 Oakland - 34
Baltimore - 37 St. Louis - 7
K.C. Chiefs - 17 S.D. Chargers - 20
Green Bay - 27 Chicago - 17
Arizona - 10 Seattle - 13
Atlanta - 13 Tampa Bay - 16
Pittsburgh - 23 Indianapolis - 20
Washington - 16 Dallas - 18

Take a look at these final scores and read more for Craig's Power Rankings and all the Latest News about your favorite NFL Team!

Top 10 Mass H.S. Fball Teams

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-27T12:18:39-04:00

Jonathan DiBiaso threw three touchdown passes for No. 1 Everett.
#1 Everett (3-0) (0-0) - 35 St. Johns Prep (0-3) - 0

Matt O'Keefe went 14 for 20 passing for 218 yards and five touchdowns (three passing, two rushing) to help the Green Dragons improve to 3-0.

#2 Duxbury (3-0) (0-0) - 42 New Bedford (2-1) - 19

John Dillon threw for 86 yards to lead the Warriors to the 34-0 shutout.

#3 King Phillip (3-0) (0-0) - 34 Sharon (2-1) - 0

#4 North Attleborough (3-0) (0-0) - 7 Canton (2-1) (0-0) - 0

Auburn rolled up nearly 500 yards on the ground and dismantled visiting St. Peter-Marian to win its 40th consecutive game. Dan Flink and Bob Sivret each scored twice for the Rockets.
#5 Auburn (3-0) (0-0) - 35 St. Peter-Marian (2-1) (1-0) -6
#6 Weymouth (3-0) - 28 Gloucester (0-3) - 0
#7 Xaverian Brothers H.S. (3-0) - 31 Brockton (1-2) - 0
#8 Holliston (2-1) - 42 Dover-Sherborn (1-2) - 6
#9 Mansfield (2-1) - 0 Stoughton (2-1) - 8
#10 Boston College High (2-1) - 35 Chelmsford (2-1) - 14

Week 3 H.S. Football Report

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-27T11:38:22-04:00

Auburn rolled up nearly 500 yards on the ground and dismantled visiting St. Peter-Marian to win its 40th consecutive game. Dan Flink and Bob Sivret each scored twice for the Rockets.
Auburn (3-0) (0-0) - 35 St. Peter-Marian (2-1) (1-0) -6

The Milford Scarlet Hawks took down the Leominster Blue Devils for the 1st time since there 2006 Super Bowl season this past Friday. Milford QB Steve Morganelli only went 2 for 6 and threw for 12 yards but the highlights came from Kick Returner Jarrod Casey returning 2 kickoffs for touchdowns. (82 Yards and 75 yard kickoff returns for touchdowns). A touchdown pass from Garrett DelleChiaie to Josh Caouette and a 2 point conversion would give Leominster a late 20-19 lead but a botched snap on a punt from Leominster would allow Milford to score a safety to come out on top and improve to 2-1 (1-0).
Milford (2-1) (1-0) - 21 Leominster (0-3) (0-1) - 20

Brian D'Amore had three touchdowns and Sam Tawa had two as the Warriors crushed the Clockers.
Medfield (1-2) (0-0) - 45 Ashland (2-1) (0-0) - 6

The Mowhawks' offense put up a touchdown per quarter while the defensive line shut down the Lancers. Jim Perkins ran 25 times for 225 yards, including 36- and 71-yard touchdown dashes. Perkins also connected with Ian Strom for a 42-yard TD pass.
Millis-Hopedale (3-0) (1-0) - 28 Norton (2-1) (0-1) - 0

Hopkinton's Mike Decina rushed for five Hiller touchdowns as the Hillers rolled.
Hopkinton (3-0) (1-0) - 34 Medway (1-2) (0-1) - 28

Week 3 Predictions

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-22T17:04:44-04:00

Joseph McCann makes his week 3 NFL predictions. He has been pretty accurate so far, read more to find out what he thinks will happen this week!

Sports News 9-22-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-22T14:15:23-04:00

This is Craig D’Alessandro with your SPORTS BLAST Update, Tune into the SPORTS BLAST on MASPORTSWEB.COM and tonight on www.thelook247.com 8-midnight/et

The Boston Red Sox dropped 3 of a 4 game series to the Baltimore Orioles. Wednesday’s starter Josh Beckett went 7 and one third innings, giving up 6 runs, 4 of which come off the bat of Orioles’ slugging first baseman Mark Reynolds.
With the loss, the Red Sox Record in September falls to 5 and 16, the Sox get a much needed day off before a Pivotal 3 game series with the AL East Champion New York Yankees, who clinched the title with a day-night double header sweep against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Current Standings in the Wild Card: The Red Sox led by 2 ½ games over the Tampa Bay Rays and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

The Boston Herald is reporting that The Red Sox have tried for the last week to acquire New York Mets pitcher Chris Capuano to pitch Sunday’s series finale against the Yankees. If Capuano is acquired, he would be ineligible to pitch in the Post Season, a deal is not expected.

The New England Patriots head to Buffalo this Sunday to play the Surprise 2-0 Bills. Tom Brady will look to keep his stellar start to the season alive against a team he has fared very well against in his career with a current 17 game winning streak against the division Rival.
The Patriots announces some roster moves this week, including placing Dan Koppen on the season ending injured reserve. The 32 year old center broke his fibula in the season opener against the Miami Dolphins, The Patriots were hoping to get Koppen back late in the season, but with Dan Connelly filling in, the Pats did not want an injured player take up a spot on the 53 man roster.
Other injures include tight end Aaron Hernandez who is out from anywhere from 2-6 weeks with an MCL injury and punter Zoltan Mesko, who injured his knee in the win against the Chargers, he has since returned to practice and Safety Patrick Chung underwent thumb Surgery earlier this week, his status for the Game against the Bills is uncertain

Getting their first game action since winning the Stanley Cup, the Boston Bruins opened up their Pre-season dropping the first game to the Ottawa Senators in a 2-1 overtime loss.

October 2 is officially the final day a New NBA collective Bargaining Agreement can be reached without the NBA losing out on a full season. NBA players and owners are scheduled to meet tonight but a deal is not expected anytime soon.

Craig's Week 3 Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-20T21:55:36-04:00

Week 3 was yet another crazy week with the unexpected Redskins, Lions and Bills at 2-0, there is sure to be some interesting changes in our NFL expert Craig Alessandro's Power Rankings this week. Be sure to give this a read to find out where the teams rank heading into week 4 and also for injury updates on NFL players that may be on your favorite team or fantasy team *cough* *cough* Michael Vick.

WARNING: BIG CHANGES FROM WEEK 2 HAVE OCCURRED IN THESE POWER RANKINGS
READ MORE TO FIND OUT!

Are the Detroit Lions for Real?

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-19T20:20:43-04:00

Eric Belseth Investigates if the 2-0 Detroit Lions are for Real. They very well could be for real as they absolutely crushed the Kansas City Chiefs last week 48-3 last week and they took down the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in week 1 27-20.

The Detroit Lions currently rank 2nd in the NFL with an average of 37.5 points per game. They’re 6th in passing yards with an average of 313.5 per game, and 8th in total yards with 421. The defense is currently ranked 7th in the NFL giving up an average of 11.5 points per game.

So our own Eric Belseth investigates CAN THE DETROIT LIONS MAKE THE PLAYOFFS? Read More to Find Out!

Sports Update September 17, 2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-17T01:16:00-04:00

----The Milford Scarlet Hawks took down the Medway Mustangs last night to pick up there first win of the season. 28-0 was the final. Steve Morganelli threw for 127 yards and 3 touchdowns. Milford takes on Leominster next Saturday at 6:00pm at there home away from home Medway High School. Coverage starts on WMRC at 5:45. Leominster lost last night to Hudson 42-7.

---Congratulations to Auburn highschool, they picked up there 39th consecutive win against Holliston last night 14-13, Holliston was attempting to win there 10th straight but came up short to the 3rd winningist team in the country Auburn High School. Dan Flink has 2 touchdown runs in Auburns 39th straight victory.

----In other Friday night football action Hopkinton put away Nipmuc 32-6, Millis-Hopedale defeated Carver 27-6. Ashland defeated West Roxbury 21-14.

----In Central Mass action last night Wachusett took down Algonquin 34-6.

----The Sox finally got a win as they attempt to keep the Rays at bay in the Wild Card race, final score last night was 4-3. Josh Beckett got the win, while Jonathan Papelbon picked up his 30th save of the Season. Big Papi drove in Dustin Pedroia in the 3rd to tie things up, Mike Aviles had the go ahead solo home run in the 4th to help the Sox get back 3 games on top of the Rays in the Wild Card Race. The Sox play there 3rd game of the series against the Rays this afternoon at 4:10pm John Lester goes against Jeff Niemann for the Rays, game can be heard right here on WMRC immediately following Boston College Football.

-----Right after the Sports Buzz the 0-2 Duke Blue Devils are at the 0-2 Boston College Eagles, game can be heard immediately following today’s edition of the Sports Buzz.

----The Detroit Tigers clinched the American League Central Division last night after they took down the Oakland Athletics 3-1. This was the Tigers first division title since 1987.

----The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim who are 4.5 out of the wildcard race behind the Sox lost to the Baltimore last night 8-3.

----In College Football Last Night Boise State University, the number 4 ranked team in the Country took down Toledo 40-15.

-----The New England Patriots and the San Diego Chargers will battle at Gillette Stadium this Sunday, game time is 4:15 pm. The Patriots took down the Dolphins in week 1 38-24, after Tom Brady threw for 517 yards, including a 99 yard touchdown pass to Wes Welker.

===When asked about a return to the Patriots Randy Moss stated “No I’m Done, Im just here golfing minding my business.

Catch the Sports Buzz on WMRC (1490am) Milford, MA and online at www.wmrcdailynews.com every Saturday at 10 AM E/T.

Sports Update September 15, 2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-15T02:58:25-04:00

This is Craig D'Alessandro With your Sports Blast Update, listen to the Sports Blast on MASportsweb.com and all new episode on www.thelook247.com 8pm/et

The New England Patriots got back to practice as they prepare for their home opener Sunday against the San Diego Chargers. The Patriots are coming off a Monday night game that saw them defeat Division rival Miami Dolphins 38-24.

The Red Sox split a two game series with Toronto this week and now welcome The Tampa Bay Rays into Fenway Park for a pivotal 4 game series. The Red Sox only led the wild card postseason slot by 4 games.

Marc Savard's name will appear on the Stanley Cup along with the rest of the 2010-11 Boston Bruins after an appeal to the NHL was granted
Savard played in just 25 games due to multiple concussions. Players usually need to play in at least 41 games or the Stanley Cup finals to get their name engraved. Savard is not expected to play in the 2011-12 season

Brad Marchand has signed a two-year, $5 million contract with the Boston Bruins.
The 23-year-old winger will earn $2 million in 2011-12 and $3 million in 2012-13. Marchand burst onto the NHL scene with 21 goals and 20 assists in 77 games in his full season last year

Meetings between the NBA players and NBA owners didn't go well this week, as the owners are sticking to their original position (hard salary cap), leaving the two sides very far apart. The players are seeking a more flexible salary cap so the players can make more revenue.

Tim Wakefield and Mariano Rivera Make History!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-14T01:05:59-04:00

The Boston Red Sox have been on a slide as of late losing 7 of their last 10 games. Tim Wakefield got the nod tonight against Brandon Morrow and the Toronto Blue Jays, in his 8th attempt at career win number 200. Going into the 4th inning the Sox were down 5-4 but the bats would heat up as the Sox put up 14 more runs in the 18-6 victory over the Blue Jays. Dustin Pedroia and Jacoby Ellsbury both went 4 for 5. Wakefield may have given up 5 earned runs tonight, but a little help from the line up helped Wakefield to his 200th career win! Tim Wakefield has been pitching in the majors for 19+ years (since 1992) and has a career record of 200-178.

Congratulations to Tim Wakefield for becoming the 61st pitcher in Baseball History with at least 200 Wins!

Another major accomplishment happened tonight besides Tim Wakefield getting his 200th win and that was Closer Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees getting his 600th career save in the Yankees 3-2 victory over the Mariners. Rivera is the 2nd Closer in Baseball History to get at least 600 saves, only the retired former Padres Closer Trevor Hoffman has more saves than Rivera at 601. Catcher Russell Martin threw out Ichiro Suzuki on an attempted steal in the bottom of the 9th to help one of the greatest closers of all time get his 600th career save.

The Week One Illusion

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-13T22:15:54-04:00

In Joseph McCann's article "The Week One Illusion" he digs deep into how the perception that we get in week one is premature. Read More to see why what happened this past week in NFL action should not be the determining factor of how the season will go.

If you are a fantasy football player or love the NFL, this is a great read!

Craig's Week 2 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-13T19:49:30-04:00

A crazy week of Football to kick off the NFL Regular Season. Some QB named Tom Brady threw for 517 yards to help the Pats crush the Dolphins 38-24, Sebastian Janikowski nailed a 63 yard field goal in the Raiders 23-20 victory over the Broncos. The Colts Kerry Collins experiment failed miserably after the Texans just man handled the Colts 34-7. Cam Newton in his first ever game in the NFL threw for 422 yards for the Panthers, but Carolina still found a way to lose to Kevin Kolb and the Arizona Cardinals. The Detroit Lions upset last years cinderella story Tampa Bay Buccaneers 27-20, and last but certainly not least, the upset of the week REX GROSSMAN and the Washington Redskins upset the New York FOOTBALL Giants 28-14.

After a week of madness read more to find out where our NFL expert Craig D' Alessandro has them ranked!

High School Football Scores 9-9-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-10T00:02:31-04:00

READ MORE FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE FOOTBALL SCORES AROUND MASSACHUSETTS
FOR WEEK 1 Friday September 9th and Saturday September 10th
Scores will continue to be posted all weekend!
Look out for the High School report in programming for latest Local Scores and news.

Sports Headlines 9-8-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-08T11:12:14-04:00

This is Craig D'Alessandro with your Sports Blast update, listen to the Sports Blast online at MAsportsweb.com
and catch a brand new episode tonight on our partner station at 8pm/et www.thelook247.com

The Start of the NFL season begins tonight as the winners of the past two Super bowls square off at Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Arron Rogers leads The Green Bay Packers Against Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints

A Russian plane with 45 passengers on board, including the KHL team
(LOCO-MO-TIV) (YAR-O-SLAV) crashed on Wednesday, killing 43 people. Two were left critically injured. The plane was carrying 45 passengers and crew and was transporting the Russian team for their season opener The Russian Emergency Situations Ministry said the plane crashed into the shores of the Volga River immediately after leaving the airport near the western city of
(YAR-O-SLAV) Russian media said the plane struggled to gain altitude and then crashed into a signal tower, shattering into pieces.

Tim Wakefield is still looking for his 200th win after the Red Sox pitcher Daniel Bard Blew a lead in the eighth inning of last nights game vs Toronto. The Red Sox had a 8-5 lead heading into the eighth until Bard imploded, allowing 5 runs in 1 inning of work. The Red Sox get back at it tonight in the Series Finale with Andrew Miller pitching for the Red Sox.

Peyton Manning Will Sit out week one and his Consecutive Start Streak will end at 227 games. Manning s Injured Neck has not healed fully since he had off season surgery and will be unable to suit up for game day. Kerry Collins will start at quarterback for the Colts in the Meantime. There is currently no timetable for Manning s return.

The New England Patriots Made some some surprising cuts to trim their roster down to 53 players. Notable Cuts include 4th year pro bowler safety Brandon Meriweather, third year wide receiver Brandon Tate and Third year Corner back Darius Butler. The Patriots Also signed 5 time Pro Bowl Guard Brian Waters and tight end Dan Gronkowski, brother of Patriot tight end Rob Gronkowski.

The Patriots Kick off their 2011 season Monday September 12th against the Miami Dolphins, it is the first game for the Patriots since being eliminated by the New York Jets in the 2010 Divisional Playoffs.

This has been Craig D'Alessandro With your sports blast update, Brand New Sports Blast coming up at 8pm/et tonight on www.thelook247.com catch the encore on MSEN Right Here on MA Sports Web!

B4's Power Week 1 NFL Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-07T03:20:36-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen the B4 of the B4 Alternative has made his NFL predictions and they can be seen right here if you choose to read more, he has been a heavy favorite of the Lions in the past, but does he see the Lions doing damage this year? Read More to find out and catch the B4 Alternative on the look 24/7 this Thursday to find out! Also to compare reflect upon Joey, Tom's and Craig's Power Rankings. This week on the Sports Blast 8-10pm/est on the Look we will be talking about all these power rankings and how they compare plus much more!

Craig's Week 1 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-05T01:06:00-04:00

Check Out Craig D'Alessandro's NFL Power Rankings here, Craig has been a Sports Analyst at multiple radio stations for 3 years now and we are proud to have a great expert here at MA Sports Web.
Is Craig Mad about Phillip Rivers or does he think Phillip Rivers will Get mad at the result of the season?
Check out his Rankings and see where he thinks teams will finish then look back at Tom's and Joey's picks and see what the other experts think, more staff power rankings coming soon!

Read More to see where Craig has them!

Sports Headlines 9-3-2011

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-03T00:16:45-04:00

Catch Tom Nappi and Matt Romling on WMRC (1490am) Milford and online at www.wmrcdailynews.com tomorrow Morning at 10am-11:30am immediately Followed by Boston College Football as they open up against Northwestern at Chestnut Hill.

Read More For Today's Sports Headlines!

Tom Nappi Week 1 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-02T17:35:51-04:00

The Massachusetts Sports Web Owner Tom Nappi gives his NFL Power Rankings. Who will finish number 1! This may be the answer you are looking for! As a Massachusetts native Tom is a Patriots fan but when it comes to his predictions he may have not seen them as numero uno, Read More to find out!

Joseph McCann's Week 1 NFL Power Rankings

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-02T17:24:14-04:00

Joseph McCann gives his NFL Power Rankings! Click Read More too find out who he thinks will win the Super Bowl and who starts the Season out at number 1!
By The way he is a Panthers Fan, so this article could be an interesting read.

Boston College Football

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-02T12:36:35-04:00

ON

Boston College kicks off their season Sat September 2nd at Noon against Northwestern University. Catch this game and the entire Boston College Eagles season on WMRC (1490am) Milford, MA and check out WMRC online at www.wmrcdailynews.com
Read More to view the Boston College Eagles Football Schedule!

Dean College Football

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-02T11:38:34-04:00

Listen to 88.3FM for Dean College Football (Franklin, MA)
or online Here
Dean Radio Here (Power 88)

Framingham State Football

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-09-02T10:53:10-04:00

In the 2011 the Rams will look to continue the success from 2010 when they went a school record 9-2 and were victorious in the programs first post season bowl game.

2011 Schedule
September 3rd @Endicott 1:00PM
September 9th Nichols 7:00PM - Bowditch Field
September 17th @ Salve Regina 12:00PM
September 24th Bridgewater State (Homecoming Weekend) 12:00PM
October 1st @ Mass Maritime 12:00PM
October 8th Fitchburg State 12:00PM
October 15th @ Maine Maritime 1:00PM
October 22nd Westfield State 1:30PM
October 29th Coast Guard 1:30PM
November 5th @ Worcester State TBA

Power Bats and Power Arms and Lackey

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-08-24T13:48:45-04:00

Joseph McCann investigates what is so special and what is not about this years Boston Red Sox, and can they bring home the World Series? Read More to find out!

Celebrate Local Sports

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-08-22T00:21:35-04:00

-10 Years ago from this month the 2001 Milford Legion Baseball Team won there first state tournament since 1972, they also won the Regionals and made it all the way to the Legion World Series in Yakima, Washington. Post 59 Milford Legion in 2001 finished within the top 8 teams in the country and had one of the most memorable seasons in there longtime existence.

-On Sunday August 14th, Hopkinton graduate Keegan Bradley posed with the Wanamaker Trophy after winning a three-hold playoff to capture his first major PGA Championship title. Bradley won the HP Bryon Nelson Championship as well as the PGA Championship this year. In the 24 events he played in this year, Bradley ranked in the top 10 in four tournaments, the top 25 in 10 tournaments and ranks 5th with 1,621 points in the FedEx Cup Rankings. Read More about Keegan Bradley here http://www.pgatour.com/players/03/31/41/
and Check Out Metrowest Daily News
Copyright 2011 Massachusetts Sports Web

Chinese Ban NBA Players Under Contract

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-08-19T15:39:35-04:00

BEIJING -- If there is a lockout players such as Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul would not be able to participate in the CBA (Chinese Basketball Association) as they are currently contracted with NBA teams, the CBA will only allow Free Agents to play for teams in the league.

Although a few NBA players including Kobe, Carmelo and Chris Paul have expressed interest in playing in China and could be a huge media gainer for the Chinese Basketball Association, they will not be welcome. Players who want to play in the CBA must commit for the entire season in China, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Xinhua said more restrictions would be announced before the start of the Chinese season on Thursday Nov. 20th. It reported contracts would be designed to discourage players from ducking out for dubious reasons, such as suspect injuries or unverified family problems at home. CBA officials could not be reached immediately for comment.

Eden Prairie, Minnesota Legion Baseball Champs!

Detinata@msn.com — 2011-08-19T11:07:08-04:00

It took 13 Innings but Eden Prairie, Minnesota took down Tupelo, Missouri to capture the 2011 American Legion Baseball Title. "This just feels great and unbelievable," center fielder Danny Blasy said. "I can't believe we pulled it off." Tupelo had a strong chance to make a comeback at the bottom of the inning with singles from Cody Shrewsbury and Tyler Moore, but Eden Prairie's defense held up. Tupelo also held a 4-3 lead up until the eighth inning, when Eden Prairie short stop Blake Schmit scored to tie the game. Congratulations to Eden Prairie, Minnesota for becoming the Champions of American Legion Baseball and our local East Side Raiders out of Worcester, MA for being the Massachusetts Legion Champions this year!
It was another great season of Legion Baseball this year, read more here: http://www.legion.org/baseball/158327/minnesota-wins-2011-legion-world-series or www.district4baseball.com