I hate you Peyton Manning.

I am sure you are a nice guy, but as a football player, I hate you so very much.

OK, it is time for the Friday Football Bonanza.

The Two Minute Drill version.

Okay first let me give you ten awful college picks.

Northwestern at Michigan (-30) Last weekend was a rough one for the Cats, but this weekend they will not blow a 35 point lead, or come back from one. Michigan 49 - 10

Notre Dame at Navy (+13) Will the Middies every beat the Irish, even if Navy had their QB they will not. Notre Dame 28 - 13

Oklahoma at Missouri (-1.5) Here is one of the better teams that is flying under the radar. They are not a BCS team, but the Tigers will play in a decent bowl. Tigers 27 - 22

USC at Oregon State (+10.5) The Trojans still keep winning, but it had been ugly. The Beavers will cause some problems but the Trojans will have their W, but not cover. USC 24 - 14

Wake Forest at North Carolina (+8.5) The Demon Deacons 24th in the nation are a bad 2nd half from being unbeaten. Again not a threat for the BCS, but will be playing closer to Jan 1st. Wake Forest 31 - 19

Washington State at UCLA (-1.5) Gut check time UCLA, so if you can finish up retching over last weeks should-have-been-win-but-became-a-loss. Bruins save their season, well until Cal and SC beat on them. UCLA 26 - 24

Tennessee at South Carolina (+3.5) Even without the Tennessee Mascot biting opponents the Vols will get the win, but it is not going to be easy. Tennessee 20 - 16

Texas at Texas Tech (+10.5) Looks like Mack Brown has things chugging along, caught a huge break last week. They keep their BSC hopes alive with a win in Waco. Texas 39 - 17

Florida State at Maryland (+4.5) Don't look now but things are getting ugly in Tallahassee. Bobby, I am looking at my watch and it may be time to go. But that will not matter this week as they beat the Terps. Florida State 21 - 14

Miami at Georgia Tech (-5) And everyone was kung fu fighting, man those. . . oh that was Miami's last game. This week they go to Atlanta. The last time their were there they had their dignity stomped on at the Peach Bowl, by LSU. They meet a team that whacked them last year in Miami. GT will be rambling and the Canes will be the Wreck. Georgia Tech 29 - 17

Okay quick NFL Power Poll Time.

This week since we all the teams back on the charts since now everyone has finally won a game, but don't worry those bottom feeders will lose those spots soon enough.

1. Colts - They get the spot as the Bears were off. Huge game this week at Denver.
2. Bears - They are who we think they are, if you want to crown them, crown their asses.
3. Broncos - Huge game this week, would be nice if the Offense could stop in for a bit.
4. Saints - Sean Payton may be up for coach of the decade with this team.
5. Patriots - Still not the powerhouse, but they win. Huge game Monday night, may be without Seymour
6. Bengals - Now, let us see if they get their swagger back. They still have problems stuffing the run.
7. Giants - Moving up, second straight impressive road win. Now can they beat the team that always gives them fits, themselves.
8. Chargers - Just when you think you got a handle on a team, the next four weeks will be a test. The DB's still suck.
9. Ravens - Problem was not O coordinator it the guys executing the plays that need to be fired.
10. Rams - Tough loss two weeks ago. Now have a shot this week, on the road, against a Charger team that now has issues.
11. Falcons - Big, big win. Though injuries on D may come back to haunt them. Also Vick teases the fans again, he has to give them more of what he showed Sunday.
12. Vikings - Monday night they get the Pats at the dome. They have been better than expected and will show that Monday.
13. Seahawks - What's that about avoiding the Super Bowl Loser curse?
14. Jets - Anyone see that the Jets have a lot of winnable games coming up and could sneak in as a wild card. I know I am shocked myself.
15. Eagles - What should really piss of Eagles fans is not the 62 yard FG to win, but two straight weeks spotting teams big leads.
16. Panthers - Should have won last week, but they a chance to get out their frustrations on the Cowboys.
17. Chiefs - Hold the elevator guys, their might be a chance that the Chiefs got Brodie Croyle this weekend.
18. Jaguars - ????????????????
19. Cowboys - Only here because there are too many that are even worse. Folks it's going to get worse, trust me.
20. Buccaneers - The last three weeks show that this team has some spark, sadly the their records has to include the first two weeks.
21. Steelers - You could make the argument they are better than some teams ahead with better records, but I am not hearing it today.
22. 49ers - Getting better, but they still are lacking talent, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
23. Texans - Two wins and it is not November.
24. Redskins - Two words "Hot Mess"
25. Packers - Beating a NFL team with Joey Harrington does count according to the NFL, but should it?
26. Titans - Fisher may be doing some of his best coaching, sadly he will not be around to see it come to fruition
27. Bills - Happy to have the Sabers taking the spot light.
28. Dolphins - So now can we tone down the Saban is genius talk
29. Browns - If this keeps up, fans may pray that the team is set a blaze, just like the lake was many moons ago.
30. Lions - Just like the last Taurus rolling off the assembly line, Lions fans wish they can see the end of Matt Millen's draft picks.
31. Raiders - Maybe that terrorist it threat did occur, since the Cards and Raiders played, that is the equivalent to a dirty bomb.
32. Cardinals - Phoenix area awaits word if NFL will award them an expansion franchise.


Week 8 Picks

I have not done the research I have wanted to, but here they are.

Atlanta at Cincinnati (-3.5) Both teams looked good in wins, rebounding from some tough losses. Both teams will pound the ball at each other. But the Bengals will be use their speed to contain Vick. They will also get some plays in the passing game since Abraham is out and other dinged. Bengals 30 - 20

Tampa Bay at New York Giants (-9) It is Barber vs. Barber! The Bucs have played well the last three weeks, but they will be in the cold playing against a team that will terrorize their rookie QB. Now the key is, will Giants show up and play like favorites. I say yes. Giants 25 - 13

San Francisco at Chicago (-16) 16 points, the Bears are good and the Niners are rough around the edges, but 16. The Super Bowl hypes will begin it march after this weekend, but the Bears do not cover 16, the Niners still remember last year. Bears 24 - 17

Jacksonville at Philadelphia (-7.5) Questions are swirling about Leftwich. Hey even with Garrard the Jags have problems on offense. The Eagles will take advatage of the Jags injuries on D to get the W. Eagles 28 - 10

Seattle at Kansas City (-4) Seneca Wallace vs Brodie Croyle now that is an epic battle, if it was week 2 of the preseason. Sad to say, but this would be a cake walk if Huard was playing. I like the home team, the have a running back. Cheifs 23 - 14

Houston at Tennessee (-3) I wonder if there was no gambling or fantasy football, would they even play this game. Titans 26 - 16

Baltimore at New Orleans (-1.5) The Saints will get a huge test this week. They face a great Raven D, so this week it is on the D to get them short fields and make life miserable for the Ravens. Saints 20 - 17

Arizona at Green Bay (-4) These two teams would not even be in the running for playoff spots in the CFL. Packers 35 - 24

St. Louis at San Diego (-9.5) What looked like an easy game could be a trap game for the Chargers. They do have Merriman this week, but the Rams can throw the ball if they have to. I like the Rams, hell I like them to win. Rams 24 - 20

New York Jets at Cleveland (-2) How is Cleveland even favored? Jets 27 - 16

Pittsburgh at Oakland (+9) This game used to conger images of some epic battles. This week it congers up a Steelers road win. Steelers 31 - 17

Dallas at Carolina (-6) Cowboys made right move going to Romo. He gets sacked 5 times this weekend, not 8 like Bledsoe would have. Panthers 26 - 13

Indianapolis at Denver (-3) As much as I have had a good feeling about Denver this week. It only means they will get beat. The Colts will make it a long afternoon for Denver and the calls for Cutler will be at a fever pitch. Colts 31 - 10

Monday Night

New England at Minnesota (+2) This will not be a cakewalk for the Pats, in fact I think the Vikes pull an upset. The reason being is the Pats will not be able to run it and the Vikes will make enough plays on D to thwart New England. Also if Seymour is out, I think the Vikes will be able to grind it out on that D. Vikes 19 - 16

Okay, I may come back and change things so don't too attached.

Washout

So Game 4 was a washout, things do not look so rosy tonight, so someone could become Mr. November, or December . . .

Again nothing like baseball and freezing temps.

World Series Update

Well the Redbirds came out with their ace and took Game 2.

Chris Carpenter was brilliant, the Tigers looked like Karen Carpenter looking for a meal. Sure they were looking, but they ended up with nothing.

I think if the Tigers could have it back, they would have tried to get the DP in the 4th.

The Tigers have looked awful at the plate this series so far. There are too many Tigers hold a hefty .000 averages.

Zumaya zuthrewa the game away in the 7th.

It is still good baseball, but think how much more entertaining it would be if the players could feel their hands and feet.

If it gets any colder then Fox will break out their track-a-puck technology.

Hey, I didn't know Prisonbreak was on Fox.

If the Tigers win, do think Jeremy Bonderman or anyone in the Tigers organization will crank call Billy Beane about Moneyball.

Speaking of Bonderman he is up against the NLCS MVP Suppan to Nuts. On the frozen tundra of Busch Stadium.

Hey, I didn't know they sold Budweiser at Busch.

I think this may be even beyond Hawkeye's skill.

As crazy as Week # 7 was in the NFL, it was also a brutal week for many teams injury wise. There were quite a few big injuries, that along with guys who are already banged up, it is a wonder how teams even have enough guys to dress on Sunday. Yes they earn huge bucks, and they know what they are going into, but the amount of pain an NFL player endures is staggering.

Some of the big names will be out of action. Some for a couple weeks, some for the season. Take a look you see it's a who's who. The one omission is Drew Bledsoe who feelings are hurt.

From the Chared Remains

Let me now finish up the post mortem on my Weak # 7 picks.

Denver at Cleveland (+4.5) My pick Denver 19 Cleveland 12 Reality Denver 17 - 7. W (W) The Broncos do it again, if it was not for a Plummer Int in the 4th, the Broncos had a shot at another game without giving up a TD. The D was lights out again, it not only knock around the Browns, but it knocked out it's Offensive Coordinator. Even as great as the performance was the O is still worrisome. Jake had two picks, they dropped another TD pass and had to settle for 3. This will not be enough to beat the likes of the Colts who roll into Denver this week. To make things worse, they lose their left tackle for the year. So Christmas is coming early for Freeney, Brock and Mathis. This weekend 17 points is not going to do it. The Offense has to get them points and put pressure on the Colts Defense which has been a weak link. They need to grind them up in the high altitude. But they are 5 -1 and on top of the division, so things are not dire. The next few weeks we see what the Broncos are made of. The Browns may need to be put down by a vet.

Minnesota at Seattle (-6.5) My pick Seattle 27 - 17 Reality Minnesota 31 - 13 L (L) I hate you Seattle, I hate you. Thanks to you, my roto team is screwed. First Alexander and now Hassleback. You better pray that Robbie Gould kicks 9 FG's a game or I am coming for blood. Wow, the Vikes took it to the Seachickens. The Seahawks were in this game till Hasselback went down and then the Vikes were off. Seneca Wallace didn't look so hot. The Vikes are a legit playoff team. It can play some D and they grind out the yards. If they can get more efficient, then the Bears need to keep the foot on the pedal because the Vikes will be there if the Bears some how fall over themselves. Now the Seachickens will have to get through one week without both of their stars, and two more with out Hassleback. They go to KC, home for a Bye/Oakland and St. Louis, so what seemed a lock for a division repeat may now become a panicked run for a wildcard.

Arizona at Oakland (+1.5) My pick Arizona 19 - 10 Surreality Oakland 22 - 9. L (L)From it get worse department. The Cardinals go from the embarrassment of losing a 20 point lead at home, to an embarrassing loss to the worst team in football. Looking at this game, you have to ask, are there really any winners here. I don't think so. This pick was one of my dumbest yet.

New York Giants at Dallas ( -3.5) My Pick Dallas 23 -30 Reality Giants 36 - 22. L (W) I said the Giants would cover, but I feel covered in dog shit for picking the Cowboys. I looks like Romo era has begun, and not too well by the looks of it. It was not pretty. He had some moments, but there were some bad throws. Not as bad as Bledsoe's throw in the 2nd. Drew WTF? Even I know that you do not make that throw. How that throw did not kill Parcells amazes me, or that he did not kill Bledsoe is also a mystery. So it is a good day for the Cowboy haters of the world as they eagerly watch this bus driving toward the cliff. As for the G-Men, they hold first place for now. The team that was ready to kill each other after the Seahawk game seem to finding a rhythm.

So Weak Seven goes into the books as:

4 - 9 SU
4 - 9 ATS

Oh wait I there was a bit of sunshine on this weekend. Looking at my college picks I did better.

9 - 1 SU
5 - 5 ATS


Now let us look at the big board for the totals.

College

44 - 12 SU (67%)

22 - 21 - 3 ATS (41%)


NFL

65 - 35 SU (65%)

40 - 55 - 5 ATS (40%)

Why are these looking more like my English grades.

Week #7

Sorry I could not get my picks to you sooner. Looking at them maybe it was for the best. But it is weeks like this that make me say,"I LOVE THE NFL". Just when you think you have a handle on things, they take a totally different turn. Come on a 62 yard field goal to win, at sea level, that is nuts! Oh do I love this game so. I know I would be bemoaning if it was the Broncos losing a game like that, but seriously it was an entertaining weekend. The scary thing is I didn't even watch any of it. If I had, my brain would have melted.

Now let us look at me and my supposed football knowledge. Here are my picks I had researched and plotted out as of late Saturday afternoon.

San Diego at Kansas City (+5) My Pick San Diego 28 - 13. Reality Kansas City 30 - 27. L (L) Well I would have loved to known that Lights out was going to be sitting in the penalty box for the next four games. But I did not look at that the Chiefs are 19-6 at home the last 3 years and 14-9-1 ATS. But the Chiefs were desperate and again we see that the Chargers can't cover people. Now with Merriman out and a couple of other injuries the Chargers now have some issues. Also it looks like the Chargers are having problems springing L.T. He did catch and throw a TD, but he still has yet to get 100 yards rushing. L.J. on the other hand did show up and let the Chargers know it. If you wanted to see TE's you got it here. The only thing that topped them was what happened in Atlanta.


Pittsburgh at Atlanta (+2.5) My pick Pittsburgh 27 - 19 Reality Atlanta 41 - 38 OT. L (L) It is this game that will make me want to blow up Time Warner Cable. Since I don't have the NFL Network I will not be able to watch the replay of this. Shame on you Time Warner, shame. This game reminds me of the Simpson's episode (Homer the Heretic) Except from The Simpson Archive

Homer turns on the television, only to be disappointed that it's a discussion show.

" We interrupt this public affairs program in order to bring you a football game."

Homer polishes off a bag of chips as he watches the football game.

"Oh, Doctor! A 98-yard triple-reverse ties the score at 63--63! We have seen nothing but razzle-dazzle here today, three visits from Morganna the Kissing Bandit, and the surprising return of Jim Brown!"

That sums it up. Vick throwing for 4 TD's and not one of those was an INT being taken back for six. Take that L.T., maybe we will have Qb controversy at Brisco High. Big Ben throws for three scores. Gets knocked out, then Batch comes in and gets two himself, including one late to get them tied. Ward getting three scores, one without a shoe. Alge Crumpler, crumpling DB's all over the field. You would have thought that the Steelers where trying to tackle both Crumpler's (come on you forgot about Carlston). Then the end of regulation where they make the kick, but does not count. Which leads to a miss, but a penalty that moves it closer for one more shot. And that one is missed by a player who roomed with Otto Graham. Then the Steelers get a shot, but lose that opportunity to the penalty that the Rams thought should have occurred last weekend. Sorry I have to take some Dramamine I am getting woozy. It is a game though I think both teams fans should not be too happy with. The Steelers gained 500 yards and lost, thanks to costly turnover that the Falcons made them pay for. Now the Super Bowl Champs are 2 - 5 and it is not getting any easier from here on it. Falcon fans, until Vick does this week in and week out he will constantly tease you. They did a better job stopping the run, but giving up half a k, does not bode well.

Green Bay at Miami (-4.5) My pick Miami 23 - 17. Reality Green Bay 34 - 24. L (L) Joey Harrington throws it 62 times, of course you are going to lose. But Miami you were winning this game at half and you have Ronnie Brown, and you let Joey throw it. Surprise, surprise he throws three INT's, and one of those was returned for a TD. It is bad times for the Miami football teams. Green Bay congrats you beat someone who worse than you and they did most of the work for you.

New England at Buffalo (+5.5) My pick New England 23 - 20. Reality New England 28 - 6 W (L) Even when I win I lose. I thought this Buffalo team would at least show up and give the Pats problems like they did not opening day. Nope, the only trouble they game the Pats was that of Boredom. Though the Pats losing Seymour for any amount of time will hurt. The Bills just look lost right now. The Pats aren't getting style points, but they keep winning.

Jacksonville at Houston (+9.5) My pick Jacksonville 20 - 16. Reality Houston 27 - 7 ! L (W) Okay I thought that the Texans would cover the points, I did not expect them to drop an anvil on them. The Jags lack of a big play target kills them. That along with the Jekly and Hyde personality they have will keep them from being a threat to get to the Super Bowl. They are kind of like a defensive minded version old Atalnta Hawks of the late 80's worlds of talent, but they just put it together for extended periods of time. The Texans have won two games, and it's week 7. See they didn't need Reggie Bush.

Detroit at New York (-3.5) My pick New York 20 - 17 Reality New York 31 - 24 W (L) I had faith in the Jets, but not enough. The scrappy Jets are over .500. They did the right thing with the draft. Going with Ferguson and the steal, Mangold was the right way. Now if Pennington can stay upright, they have may get back sooner than later, but these are the Jets and disaster is always around the corner. Lions try to take solice in that they are not the worst team in the NFL.

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay (+5)My pick Philadelphia 31 - 20 Reality Tampa Bay 23 - 20. L (L) I think the man who pens Fortress of Pillows put it best on how most Eagles fans feel today, "62 yard kick in the groin". To see the team make huge play to get the lead back late to lose it on that. I am still shaking my head, he cleared that by a couple of yards, and he did at sea level. This the same man who Giant fans hated, comes up with this. But then if Donovan was not throwing passes to the Barber who not retiring then maybe they are not in this situation. Also, Donovan pre-game nachos never are good idea.

Carolina at Cinncinati (-3.5) My pick Carolina 24 - 20 Reality Cinncinati 17 - 14. L (W) Jake, why did you go all Plummer and throw that INT. Well it looks like the Panthers are doing what they do best. I know they were the underdog, but this was a game they should have won and they didn't. This team is taking the Saints old mantle of team who you can never trust. The Bengals got out with a win. Hey, gutsy call on fourth and 1, late in the game. You better be glad it worked, because there would be problems with this team if they had slipped 3 - 3. Do they rebound and play like what the experts expect? Well will see.

Washington at Indianapolis (-9) My pick Indianapolis 29 - 21 Reality Indianapolis 36 - 22. W (L) Well it looks like the Colts giving up a 2nd for Booger worked out for them. Since they were down another DL he helped. The Skins again fall over themselves. I think the 15 play drive, down 33 - 14, where they missed a FG sums up their day. There last two drives were that 15 play one in the 3rd and a 14 play drive that got them a late touchdown. Guys you needs scores and you need them quick. Even against a cover 2 you have to move the ball up the field. Take some chances. But hey, you are the Redskins, it is all about winning in the off season.

Well I am looking at my watch I have to book it out of here. I will finish this up tomorrow. But before I go here is my Monday Night Pick.

New York Giants at Dallas (-3.5) This one will be close, I think the Cowboys eek it out, the Giants cover, but Bledsoe holds the dogs off for one more week. Dallas 23 - 20.

World Serious

So the 2006 Fall Classic has started and after two games we are even.

Game One Notes

The biggest stage and they both trot out rooks. The result, the kid with the flat brim was great, the kid with the howitzer was not.

So the National League teams can win world series games. The White Sox would have not allowed it.

Don't throw Albert Puljos strikes, plain and simple.

Well it is not a Cardinals/Tiger World Series unless the Cards win game one. (1934, 1968 and 2006)

Rolen and LaRussa may not be speaking, but Rolen is speaking with that bat. How he is playing with that shoulder is beyond me.

Game 2

The Tigers tie it up. They did what they have done all year, win with pitching and a couple of big hits.

The whole Kenny Rogers thing may be blown out of proportion, but I think Kenny is full of crap though. I think the umps should have done something. Because if he did have pine tar then he is done for the game and series. That is all clearly stated in rule 8.02. I just can't believe LaRussa did not go nuts. Your team is playing for the World Series you have to go and make the umps check. It could have served two purposes. One to get Kenny kicked out the game for doing some illegal. Two, you get in his head. The guy is a hot head and he can be taken out of his comfort zone. But Tony you didn't and it may come back to haunt you. Maybe you feared that if you came out and to argue that someone was using illegal substances that you would be struck by lighting since you never knew McGwire and Canseco were roiding.

I do not know what was hit harder, Craig Monroe's homer, or the hands of his team mates when he got back to the dugout?

Carlos Guillen, with a big night. He a guy many see as a budding superstar. I will withhold judgement.

More Rogers B.S. - clump of dirt my ass, your job is using your hands, you should know that you have dirt on it. Also remember to get your story or stories straight before you talk to the press. Now it looks like you were cheating through the playoffs. They have seen that "clump of dirt" on your hand in the other series. I hate you Kenny, I hate you. The thing is Kenny, if you are throwing lights out, many will now question you and your abilities. I hope you get caught.

The Cards waited a little too long to finally get things going. They almost got to Jones in the 9th.

So now we wait for game 3 on Tuesday it will be Robertson vs Carpenter. Should be a good one.

Kenny Rogers.

Professional Cheater!

I am not a fan of that camera throwing, hot head. You are a cheating bastard and I hate your chicken.

Cheater, cheater, cheater!

Boski's College Football Picks of Doom.

I have done no studying on college this week so I suggest that you not even look at them, since they may force you to pick them and lose.


Texas at Nebraska (+5) I like the Longhorns to roll Texas 30 -20

Alabama at Tennessee (-11) When the season ends the Vols will kick themselves for that home loss to Florida. Tennessee 28 - 14

Oregon at Washington (+3.5) Ugly jersey's will avoid a let down. Oregon 31 - 19

Oregon State at Arizona (+2.5) Arizona is always just around the corner. Well that must be a big freaking corner since they still have not arrived. Oregon State 23 - 18

Georgia Tech at Clemson (-7) Every time I turn my back on GT they bite me in the ass, but Death Valley is not an easy place to win, unless you play NCAA College Football 2005. Tigers 29 - 19

Iowa at Michigan (-13) All the talk that Iowa is sleeper died last week in Bloomington. At the end of this one they will wish they were put to sleep. Michigan 30 - 14

Washington at Cal (-23) The Bears will try to run it up on everybody here on in. They hope that and any kind of win vs USC will give them a shot at a BCS game. They are not the team that got crushed by the Vols, who are a good team themselves. Cal 45 - 21

Wisconsin at Purdue (+6) A big game for both. Winner has a inside track on 3rd place and decent bowl. I like what the Badgers have been doing and they will get the road win. Wisconsin 28 - 20

Ohio State at Indiana (-30) Being head football coach at Indiana is tough gig. The current coach just fought a brain tumor. Look what it did to Lee Corso, left him brain dead. But I think Hoeppner may get this team to a point where it competes. Sure I should not be too caught up in them beating maybe a over hyped Iowa team, but I think they will give the Buckeye's fits. Buckeyes win, but not by 30. Ohio State 39 - 25

Boski's Game of Day

UCLA at Notre Dame (-13.5) I heart tells me this is when UCLA goes off script and plays well. But my head tells me that things are not going to work out this weekend. UCLA has a chance to get the college spotlight on it for a little while if it can win at South Bend. Show it's a national program not just USC whipping post. But right now they maybe on QB#3 this weekend. But I think they will cover this week, but that is not much consolation. Notre Dame 24 - 17

Thursday Football Spectacular!

Since I am going to be on the road tomorrow I have to give you all the football today. Unless I get time tonight.

So first off, lets see the rankings.

#1. Chicago Bears (Last week #1 - NC) The Bears escape the desert with the win, barely. (Up Next - Bye)

#2. Indianapolis Colts (Last week #2 - NC) Considering how the underwhelming the Bears were, the Colts almost move up. (Up Next - # 26 Washington)

#3. San Diego Chargers (Last week #5 - Up 2) They are a bad fourth quarter from being #1. I think they maybe the best team in the NFL. (Up Next at #22 Kansas City)

#4. Denver Broncos (Last week # 3 - Down 1) Again they hold a team with out a TD, but only score 13 against the Raiders. That is cause for losing points in the polls. (Up Next at #23 Cleveland)

#5. New England Patriots (Last week # 4 - Down 1) Only move down since the Chargers are playing well. Well it must be mid-season the Pats are fighting injuries in the secondary. (Up Next at #28 Buffalo)

#6. Seattle Seahawks (Last week #6 - Up 1) They scratched out a tough win. They caught a break with the penalty, but if they had not put the ball on the carpet it would have not come to that. (Up Next vs. #20 Minnesota)

#7. Carolina Panthers (Last week #13 - Up 6) They are back. Just shooting up the charts. Steve Smith is not of this world. (Up Next - #12 Cincinnati)

#8. New Orleans Saints (Last week #11 - Up 3) They have a tough road ahead, but this team will make the playoffs (Up Next - Bye)

#9. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Week #6 - Down 3) Jacksonville Jaguars (Last Week #

#10. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last week #12 - Up 2) This season is strange when teams on byes can move so much. (Up Next - at Unranked Houston)

#11. New York Giants (Last Week #17 - Up 6) I hate doing this, but if they do what they did in Atlanta then there is hope. Give the ball to Tiki and good things happen. Keep doing it, he may not be around much longer (Up Next at #12 Dallas)

#12. Dallas Cowboys (Last Week #16 - Up 4) Huge game this week and if they screw this one up. Bill Parcells will be the one yelling, "why am I here?" (Up Next vs. #11 New York Giants)

#13. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last Week #19 - Up 6) Even all the name calling and hair pulling the Chiefs did not stop the Steelers from pounding them. (Up Next at #14 Atlanta)

#14. Atlanta Falcons (Last Week # 7 - Down 7) That second half looked a lot like what happened last year. (Up Next vs. Pittsburgh)

#15. St. Louis Rams (Last Week #14 - Down 1) They had this one, but let it get through. I have a feeling the rules committee is going to make changes because what happened at this end of the game (Up Next Bye)

#16. Cincinnati Bengals (Last Week #10 - Down 7) This team has some serious problems up front. They can not protect Palmer and he starting to look a little gun shy. Also they need to run the ball if they hope to get back on track. (Up Next vs. #7 Carolina)

#17. Baltimore Ravens (Last Week #9 - Down 8) Brian you may want to save some time and throw yourself under the next bus. (Up Next Bye)

#18. Minnesota Vikings (Last Week #15 - Down 3) They slide far for a bye, mostly because I am nuts. They have to do better in the Red Zone if they want to have a shot at the playoffs. (Up Next at # 6 Seattle)

#19. New York Jets (Last Week # 25 - Up 6) I really should not be bumbling them up after nearly Cardinaling the game to the Dolphins (Up Next vs. #25 Detroit)

#20 Ohio State Buckeyes (Last week # 23 Up 3) Another week of this and they will be the best team in the state of Ohio, by a mile (Up Next - Buckeye punished for being over the cap)

#21. Michigan Wolverines (Last Week #NR - Up 12) If the Lions had not won this week, they would have been the 3rd best team in Michigan (Up Next - Try to distance themselves from the Lions)

#22. Kansas City Chiefs (Last Week #18 - Down 4) You pull a guys hair, you are going to get the score run up on you.

#23. Cleveland Browns (Last Week # 26 - Up 3) They may be the most loyal fans, I wonder if the research data also shows that the area is home to high number of masochists (Up Next vs. #4 Denver)

#24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Last Week # 28 - Up 4) Gradkowski is Polish for Major Applewhite (Up Next vs. #9 Philadelphia)

#25 Detroit Lions (Last Week #31 - Up 6!) They won? Really (Up Next at #19 New York)

#26. Tennessee Titans (Last Week #30 Up 4) They are bad, but you can see that they are trying to do something (Up Next Bye)

#27. San Francisco 49ers (Last Week #22 - Down 5) They hung in until the 2nd half and then the Chargers got mad (Up Next Bye)

#28. Buffalo Bills (Last Week # 21 - Down 7) I know the Lions have been close and are better than their record, but still. (Up Next vs. #5 New England)

#29. Miami Dolphins (Last Week #27 - Down 2) They are not playing Dolphin safe football. It looks like it getting worse now that Culpepper my be out the rest of the year and he a little pissed. My suggestion, don't let him get on a boat right now (Up Next vs. #32 Green Bay)

#30. Washington Redskins (Last Week #20 Down 10) If Skins fans were looking to pay loads of cash for big buck marginal football, then they are getting a return on that investment. This team keeps sinking in the standings. Mr Snyder might be able to look down on them. (Up Next at #2 Indianapolis)

#31. USC Trojans (Last Week - UR - Up 2) Global Warming to blame so many bad NFL teams. (Up Next - Fighting to keep the Raiders out of L.A.0

#32. Green Bay Packers (Last Week #32 - UC) Something smells here and it ain't the cheese. (Up Next at #29 Miami)

Others Receiving Votes

Houston Texans (Last Week # 24 - Down By Contact) I wonder if Charlie Casserly could every step foot in Houston again. (Up Next - vs. #10 Jacksonville)

Oakland Raiders (Last Week #116 - up 1) Again Al you made the right move firing Shanahan and going with Art. (up next vs #117 Arizona)

Arizona Cardinals (Last Week #117 - down a lot) Sure the Raiders are the worst team in NFL, but after Monday Night's blow chunk fest you get to taste the back of my ranking hand. (Up Next at #117 Oakland)

So let's go over how we got here.

An interesting past few days in sports.

First off baseball. I hate to say that there is no truth to the rumor that I have been doing a rain dance to hold up the World Series. It is not a part of my feindious plot to not have a World Series played so I can keep saying that the White Sox were the last team to be World Champions. I wish I had thought of it.

But it looks like the Tigers will have some rust on them as they will be waiting a full week in between games. Again that is if the Mets and Cards actually get to play.

Speaking of the NL, I am surprised that this series is going as it had. Last night the Cards showed they are still up for the challenge. They got to Glavine who had their number in game #1. Also to get back up after Sunday's fiasco is taking away from the awful taste that was how they finished this season. They got a great performance from Weaver who showed the toughness that many felt he lacks, by holding the Mets at bay, after surrendering two runs in the 4th. They had chances to blow it wide open but did not capitalize, thankfully it did not bite them in the ass last night. Today the teams head back to Flushing for game 6. It is all set up for the Cardinals they send their ace as the Mets trot out Maine who has lost already in this series. So that means, since I feel good about the Redbirds chances that the Mets will win the next two.

Other baseball news.

Stay away from Juan Uribe's Jeep if you know what is good for you. Oh Juan, what the hell are you doing?

Ken Macha you just lead the A's to their first series win in 16 years. Where are you going? That's right, unemployment. Go figure that one out. Well as we have seen if you a good manager, you better suck up to the GM. Girardi now Macha fired, while Torre keeps his job because Cashman is in his corner.

So the Cubs don't take Giradi they take Lou Pinella. Wow Lou, the Cubs are going to pay you that much. Now you can give Steve Lyons his wallet back. He needs the cash. Oh wait I have just been fired from Fox for that joke. Lou I hope your time back in the dugout will be a fruitful as your stint with the Devil Rays. I am so praying that he shows that he now as dumb of a manager as he was doing commentary for Fox. Lou is coming and he wants A-Rod. That sentence sounded really sleazy didn't it. Sorry about that. Now it looks like the Trib may pour out cash to get him. One problem guys. Who are going to give up and who going to pitch. If A-Rod comes to Chicago as a Cub. I do hope that the Sox win another title again, so life will be miserable for the Cubs even more.

I think the Padres are being dumb in letting Bochy go. It is not his fault they don't win in the playoff. You asking the guy to win a knife fight with a nerf football. Give the guy some more weapons to work with and he will win.

Hey I told you stay away from Juan's jeep.

Hockey

The Kings suck.

College Football

When Miami and Florida International meet it is always a war. Thankfully this year Miami Dade Country Police and UN Peacekeepers where able to come it and calm things down. If you have not seen it well then that is just sad. And if you have seen less than 40 times well look again. (Deadspin) Stay Classy Lamar. You will need to now that you lost your job. So it looks like about 3,278 players past present and future were suspended for various lengths of time. I will say I have not seen Don Stock run around like that at the Orange Bowl in long time.

The BCS rankings are out and I don't care. Sure they make for great controversy but the system is screwed up and they have not figured it out after all these years. I going to keep watching, but don't talk to be about the rankings until we are deep into November.

UCLA had it's dignity stomped on for 3 quarters. They made it less of beating by holding the Ducks to 8 points in the second half and getting two late TD's. Carl, I love you, but this team has to make progress. Nothing will say that more than a win this week. Do that and you put UCLA back on the national scene. A big road game, come on, it is time to invoke the Gutty Little Bruins. So please have these guys ready to play for four quarters.

NFL

Okay seriously the Bidwells must have done something really heinous to deserve all the bad karma. What do they have to do. You do not blow 20 point leads folks, when the other team has turned the ball over 6 times. And boy is Denny pissed. The game should have been over when they made their last pick. 5 minutes and change up 13, game over. Nope the Cardinals gave their fans the bird with what happened. I think the fumble was not the best call in the world, but that happens. Also a word to Edge. Hey buddy you asked for the ball late and you did nothing with it. What 37 carries for 58 yards. Edge the line sucks, but you are stealing money right now. The other thing that boggles my mind was the punt return. It makes me ask the question. Did any of the Cardinals stay on the field after the ball was kicker? To me that seems the only logical explanation why a guy returns the ball up the gut un-touched. THAT IS WHY YOU STAY IN YOUR LANES! When you break the special teams cardinal rule you get burned. The saddest part of all it is that the Cardinals could have won it. When Mr. Auto-Matic 2005 misses a 41 yarder. Oh wait it gets sadder, the Cards fire their O-coordinator, even though I think he called a good game. But they are laying the blame of the O-Line on someone, and he the guy who gets the sucker punch.

But he shouldn't worry, he can hang out with Fassell, who got thrown under the bus by his good friend Brian Billick. Fassell has said that there are too many generals and not enough soldiers. It may even be why Boller sucks since he hears three different things to do. That will f' with you. You had a staff of Billick, Fassell and Neuheisel. That to me is, "too much info running through my head". Oh sorry, I went all Police on you there.



Sorry if this entry is more hackneyed than others.

Another weekend that shows why Vegas loves me.

I keep sliding into the morass of awful.

So on the college front I hit a few.

Wisconsin beat the bejebus out of the Gophers W (W)

Nebraska got its 800 win, which I think about 200 of those came against K State in the 70's and 80's since they used to beat on them so bad it counted for two wins. W (W)

Ohio State beat on the Spartans W (W)

I was right about the Scarlett Knights, but I did not see them put up a shutout. But things like that happen when you break the leg of the opposing QB. W (W)

Now let us look at where I went wrong.

USC did not destroy the Sun Devils. If ASU had forget they were ASU they could have pulled this one out. Will the Trojans just lose so they can go nuts and overreact. I am sick of the "we are not winning by enough crap". Hey wins are wins, you take them how you can get them. So shut it. But this team has problems and someone is going to exploit it. I just hope it will be the Bruins. W (L)

Oregon did win, and made the Bruins look awful in that first half, but the neither team covered. Yeah UCLA you play like that next week the Irish will bury you, so clean it up wont you? W (P)

The Beavers beat on the Huskies. That is the last time I speak up for you Ty. L (L)

Florida season of destiny got eaten by Tigers. They could still play for the BCS title, but they will have to win out and hope for a couple of teams to lose. But then this is the BCS and something stupid that will happen and again we will scream for a tournament, which we will never get. L (L)

This week's college results:

SU: 6 - 2
ATS: 4-3-1

College totals

SU: 35-11 76%
ATS: 22-21-3 47%

Now to the Pros

Let me say not my best week.

Rams 28 - 23 - Well the Seahawks showed they may have issues, but they are still a good club. The Rams had this one and they let it go. Let's see what happens when they come back after the bye. We will see what they are made of. L (W) Final Score Seattle 30 -27

Bills 20 - 14 - So Buffalo, this is how you reward my faith. I am so disappointed. L (L) Final Score Detroit 20 - 17

Bengals 28 - 13 - Alright the roughing the passer and the Bucs TD are sketchy, but why were they even that close. Who Dey, Who Dey going to underachieve? L (L) Final Score Tampa Bay 14 - 13

Panthers 17 - 13 - Ravens get punched in the mouth again. Steve Smith again terrorizes a secondary. The Ravens lose even though Boller somehow threw three TD's. Weren't all those tipped? Today it gets worse for the Ravens, as they fire the Offensive Coordinator. It looks like the S.S. Raven is taking on water. W (W) Final Score Carolina 23 - 21

Cowboys 29 - 14 - T.O. three scores as the Cowboys beat up the Texans after a half of just toying with them. Even though they won, you can here the ticking. W (W) Final Score Dallas 34 - 6

Falcons 21 - 18 - Ron Mexico what are we to do with you and now the amazing disappearing run defense. In this battle of sckitzo team the Giants take it to the Birds. L (L) Final Score New York 27 - 14

Eagles 27 - 25 - Those amazing Saints do it again. The Eagles came out flat, they still had their chances though. But the Saints show something by taking the ball and playing keep away till the end when they kicked the winner. That never happened under Haslett or even Diddly Poo Mora. As someone rightly said, "the Saints should not be a home dog again this year". I agree. L (W) Final Score New Orleans 27 - 24

Redskins 23 - 17 - Great job Chainsaw Dan, I do appreciate the help in getting the Broncos a better draft pick. You should be ashamed that you make those people pay all that money to watch that. I will say that Vince did a decent job and they again ran the ball well. L (L) Final Score Tennessee 25 - 22

Steeler 24 - 21 - Alright the Steelers are better than we had seen and the Cheifs are worse. To top it off they have become a bunch of sissy hair pullers. Do that again and Troy beats you silly. W (L) Final Score Pittsburgh 45 - 7

Jets 23 - 16 - Were the Jets giving us a sneak peak at what to expect on Monday night. A team nearly blows a big second half lead and wins it on a missed FG. W (W) Final Score New York 20 - 17

Bolts 31 - 17 - The Niners were actually holding there own for a little while, but then the Chargers dropped the hammer. I think Marty is playing with fire. Sure they were throwing late, but they had LT in there too long. Yes he got four scores, but that does not mean anything if he is hurt down the stretch. Yes, they could get by with Turner, but do you really want to find out. W (W) Final Score San Diego 48 - 19

Broncos 35 - 12 - Awwww, another win over the Raiders. The D played great but the offense is trouble some. They are not moving the ball very well, especially throw the air and that will come back and bite them in the ass. But the do what they need to win. W (L) Final Score Denver 13 - 3

Bears 28 - 7 - I still can not believe I saw what I saw last night. The Bears turn it over 6 times and win. They turned the ball over with 5 plus minutes and down 13 and they won! The Cards are doomed, plain and simple. Who did they piss off to deserve this. I do think they got jobbed on the fumble, he was stopped and the whistle should have blown, but that happens. Then they still had a chance to win this one and they miss the FG. This job is going to kill Dennis Green. W (L) Final Score Chicago 24 - 23


So the results are:

SU: 7 - 6
ATS: 6 - 7

Season Totals:

SU: 61 - 26 70%
ATS: 36 - 46 - 5 41%

October baseball report Friday October 13.

Well the League Championship Series started and it looks like we know who will be playing in the Series.

Even though it was only game one. The Cardinals blew a great start by Weaver. Well they did not blow it, he did make a mistake to Beltran, but they way Glavine was going the Cards were screwed. Tonight game will determine if this series is over in 4 or goes 6. Carpenter is their ace and even with the Mets trot out it will be equal to Reyes and Suppan to Nuts. If the Cards are allowed to bat Puljos twice every inning, then they have a shot.

The American League it is already 2-0 Detroit as the A's come to Detroit. Where the weather report indicated that the infield will be dragged by a Zamboni machine. So that does not bode well for the A's . They had their shot in Game 2. They got the lead early and then blew it. To make it worse was they had shots, but like game 1 they squandered them. I think the Tigers win the next two and makes Detroit that it is Detroit and that the Lions play there.

LETS GET READY TO GET READY!

It is Friday and since I do hardly any blogging on the weekends, it is time for the football picks.

So it is back to school

Minnesota at Wisconsin (-8) I will take the Badgers who have been scoring just as much as their band has. (Deadspin) Badgers 41 - 23

Ohio State at Michigan State (+15) Last two times the Spartans played a #1 ranked Ohio State team they won, but that is not happening this time. Slaps for everyone wearing green. Buckeye 30 - 18

Arizona State at Southern Cal (-19) The past couple of times the Sun Devils have ventured to the Coliseum bad, bad things happen. Sad to say it will continue. Trojans 44 - 20

Rutgers at Navy (-1) Show of hands. How thought this game would have one team ranked. Okay who thought that ranked team would be Rutgers. I thought so. I will take the new eastern powerhouse. Scarlett Knights 28 - 24

Oregon State at Washington (-9) So Ty Willingham does knows what he is doing. For a team many saw with very little talent has played extremely well. This week they get to bash some pumpkins. Huskies 26 - 14

Nebraska at Kansas State (-11) Huskers get their first win in Manhattan since 1996 and the programs 800th. Huskers 30 - 21

UCLA at Oregon (-10) Bruins walk into a hornets nest. A hornets nest filled with ugly looking green and gold hornets. The Bruins D will keep it in the game but the Ducks will want to avenge last weeks loss. Ducks win but Bruins cover. 28 - 20

Game of Day

Florida at Auburn (-1) This game will be the one that tells us if it maybe Florida that on a path to Phoenix. They face a Tigers team that stepped in some hogshit last weekend. I think Florida will eek out a win. Gators 19 - 14



NFL WEEK #6

Seattle at St. Louis (+3.5) One of the marque match ups this week. A huge test for both teams. We see if the Hawks can win with out Alexander. For the Rams, they try to make the statement that they are for real. If the birds drops this one, do not be surprised if they make inquires to teams about RB's. This I think the Rams will surprise and win. That along with the Seachickens being 5-10-1 ATS in their last 16 road games. The Rams will do enough to slow down the 4WR's and pound the Hawks with Jackson. Rams will cover and I think they will even win. Rams 28 - 23

Buffalo at Detroit (+1) This one may not be for the faint of heart. It is week two of the Dick Juron Trip Down Memory Lane Tour. Will the real Bills, please stand up. Is this the team that played well at New England and Miami. Along with handling the Vikes. Or is this the team that showed up for the Bears. As for Detroit they say the effort is there but the talent is lacking, sadly I just see another long season for the Honolulu Blue and Gun Metal Silver clad Lions. But as tempted as I am to go with the Lions, the Bills put the Lions at 0-6 and in great position to keep pace with the Raiders in the Brady Quinn Bowl. Bills 20 - 14

Cincinnati at Tampa Bay (+5.5) Hey guys this would might be a good idea if you were not 0-4. (Deadspin) The numbers you are forgetting are the Bengals are 12-1-1 ATS in their last 14 road games, and covering 6 out of their last 8 vs. NFC teams. Even though they are usually slow off a bye (2-8 ATS in their last 10 after the bye) they will come out and pound you. Bucs you will need to get to Carson Palmer if you have any hope. Also Tampa you will need to worry that your O-Line does not allow another spleen to rupture. Bengals 28 - 13

Carolina at Baltimore (-3) The Ravens will try to rebound from the assault they took on Monday night. But sadly the team they face can be a physician as them. This is the kind of game the Panthers win, but since now I think that they will lose. Ah I will stick to my guns. I feel the Panthers will be able to run the ball enough and they have enough weapons in the passing game to get 3rd downs and grind this one out. Panthers 17 - 13

Houston at Dallas (-13) The Texans short lived steak of prosperity ends. After a win and bye they will almost go three weeks since they were last kicked in the teeth. It will be a little sad as you will see the hope in their eyes crushed by half time, usually that is done when they get off the bus. For the Cowboys, they could have not asked for a better cure for their ills. By the end of Sunday Drew Bledsoe will hold the job for another week. But start taking bets on when T.O. throws Drew under the bus. I say two more weeks. Cowboys 29 - 14

New York Giants at Atlanta (-3) So the G-Men come south after coming out and beating on the Redskins. I still think this team is going to implode. But they will probably win this week and at Dallas and then lose to Tampa and Houston. This week they get a rested Falcon team that gets back Abraham so they will be able to hound Manning. But can the Falcons throw this week. The Giants secondary played mark ably better last week, but still is awful. That will have no bearing if Vick can't make some throws. If he can't, then the Giants will be able to sell out the run. The Falcons still maybe able to run the ball, since the Giants are soft up the middle, but it will come down to Vick making some throws and I think he will. Falcons 21 - 18

Philadelphia at New Orleans (+3) This along with the St.Louis/Seattle game will be most compelling this weekend. The Eagles will have to be up after the T.O. along with going into the dome to play a good Saint team. McNabb has done everything you could ask to win the MVP along with giving T.O. the finger. The Eagles will need to get the ball deep. The Saint DB's are slow and if they can over the top, it will allow them to try to L.J. Smith in the middle. Also the other big battle will be on how the Saints protect Brees. The Eagles are banged up on the DL and in the secondary, so they I see that this week they come with some pressure. Which I knows sounds dumb since we all know that Eagles will be blitzing when they land. But if they get Brees time it will allow the Saint to get players into space with some screens and crossing routes. This one will be decided late and by the guys wearing green, but the guys in white cover. Eagles 27 - 25

Tennessee at Washington (-9.5) The Vince Young Era continues with another ugly and closer than expected loss. The Redskins will get themselves a win and false sense of security. Redskins 23 - 17

Kansas City at Pittsburgh (-6.5) So it is must win Sunday for the Steelers and the same could be said for the Chief, especially since the teams they are chasing have easy games this week. Steeler fans are thinking back wistfully on those Charlie Batch Days. Two words, ball security. If they do not cough up the ball they beat Cinny and maybe they win at San Diego, maybe. The problem is Ben is not right and a second reciever has to step up. This offense is putting too much pressure on the D. If the D can't create turnovers then they get burnt since they can't get off the field. As for the Chiefs, I will say I have been very surprised by Huard, but is this team for real. They have problems on the OL and that is preventing them for using their best assets, LJ to his fullest. He has to grind out the yards and that pounding will come back and haunt them in December. This week the Steelers find a way to keep hope alive. Steeler 24 - 21

Miami at New York Jets (-2.5) The scary part about this game is that Harrington right now helps this team. He is in a better position to move this team than Culpepper who is showing he may not be as ready as he thought he was. The Jets face a team they can throw on and they will need to since they can not run the ball. J-E-T-S C -O-V-E-R! Jets 23 - 16

San Diego at San Francisco (+9) After bouncing back and beating the Pop Warner team that is the Raiders they get the Chargers. When this one is done the Niners will not be feeling so classy. They will also feel like the English translation of the California city found by German explorers in 1904. Bolts 31 - 17

Oakland at Denver (-15) Either I will get to witness the Raiders get the Ike Turner treatment on TV, or the biggest humiliation in Bronco history. I am pray the Broncos do the former. This one worries me in that this one looks way too easy. That this will be the one week the Raiders take their heads out of their asses. Common sense tells me Shanhan will not let them look past Oakland, since he still loves running it up on Al. Hopefully the Broncos can also get out of this one without injury and maybe Jake will actually resemble an NFL QB, which is not hard to do against the Raiders. Broncos 35 - 12

Monday Night

Chicago at Arizona (-10) Kurt Warner announced this week his pondering retirement at the end of this year. Yeah Kurt you may want to do that know, because they may knock Leinhart out and they may kill you. Satan may be coming to collect on Monday. So I hope you enjoyed the Super Bowl and the MVP's. The Birds are a mess. The Bears will need to worry about injuries. Since so many will be in the Cardinals backfield all day, there maybe some cases of friendly fire. Bears 28 - 7

From across the pond.

A quick update on Euro 2008.

The Irish are not going. Apparently they suck ass. Nothing like a 5-2 drubbing by that world football power house Cyprus. Oh wait they drew versus the Czech Republic, so they are sucking a little bit less. That may be laying low, so they can really suck it come World Cup Qualifying time.

Meanwhile the squad from the North has done better than expected. Even after a loss to Iceland they have beaten Spain, drew versus Denmark and beat Latvia. Considering the current history of the Northern Ireland these are heady times.

As for the Premiership, since I am too loaded down with the NFL and college I will have to wait to really get back into the swing with them, but it is good to see the Reds on top of fixture. Bite me Chelsea!

It's Thursday. Everyone into the NFL Power Ranking Pool!

So we are at week # 6 of the NFL season and the big story along with the play of the Bears is the wide gap between the good and bad of the NFL. Sadly there are 8 teams this year that are god awful and really have no shot at the playoffs. And that there are a couple others who are close to joining them. I think it maybe just one of the years where there is an issue of talent imbalance. Also right now the D has the upper hand. The D's have caught up with Offenses. If this goes on for another season, then something needs to be done to level the playing field. Hopefully without making a shame of things. The league does sell when points are going up on the board.

So let is get to the big board.

BOSKI"S 2006 NFL POWER POLL Sponsored by Yugo

1. Chicago Bears (Last week #1 - NC) The undefeated Bears put another beating on another unsuspecting foe. A 41-7 drubbing of the Bills. I think the Bears were pissed to give up the 7. Right now they are rolling and they are the team to beat right now. The Defense is playing up to the hype and the Offense is generating points. But there is still a long way to go, so all the Super Bowl Shuffle Part Deux talk needs to be tempered, just a smidgen. (Up Next at #28 Arizona Mon.)

2. Indianaplois Colts (Last week #2 - NC) Should get dropped for almost losing to the Titans at home, but they are still undefeated. This league is still based on wins not style points. But the Colts have looked shaky of late. The Titans rammed it down their throats for 200+ yards on the ground. Losing Corey Simon will not help. The Colts need to get the running game going, since teams are clamping down on the receivers. If the Colts can't return to the fast break offense then team will be able to hang in, run the ball and shorten the game. The Titans did and almost won. A team with more talent wins that game. (Up Next Bye)

3. Denver Broncos (Last week #5 - Up 2) Great win on Monday. Smacking the big bad Ravens in the mouth. Two weeks out of the last three where the D got to show it's wears on the national stage. So far the Broncos have put the clamps on people. They have only allowed one TD so far. Throw out the St. Louis game and the numbers are even better. The offense is still has issues it needs to address, if it has any hopes of going deep in the playoffs. They have a chance to make some hay before a huge match up with Indy in two weeks. So they would be smart and not look ahead.(Up Next vs. #67 Oakland)

4. New England Patriots (Last Week #4 - NC) They beat on the Sea Mammals this past weekend. They are still having problems throwing the ball, but I think they are closer to getting things clicking than other teams with passing problems. Oh sure they are grasping at some straws with some of the free agents they have pulled in, but I think the Pats brain trust get a pass till it blows up in their faces. (Up Next Bye)

5. San Diego Chargers (Last Week # 8 - Up 3) Now if they keep playing like this they will be a beast. You see Marty what happens when you stay on the offensive, good things can happen. Let the players play Marty. They did not allow the Steelers to find any real kind of rhythm. (Next up at #22 San Francisco)

6. Philadelphia Eagles (Last week #10 - Up 4) One of the teams moving up the most is the Iggles. This time they played 4 Quarters and won a big divisional game. Right now they are establishing that they are the ones to beat in the NFC. The most impressive thing other than McNabb MVP play is that they have been doing this banged up. Now they face a tougher than expected road game (Next up at #11 New Orleans)

7. Seattle Seahawks (Last Week #6 - Down 1) Even with a week off the birds fall to a lower perch. They have not looked great expect for the first half of the Giants game and the Cardinal game. Right now they are missing Hutchinson more than they care to admit. I think that more than Alexander being dinged up. Well right now they face a big road game. Last year they were 2-2 going into the dome and then went on a tear. I don't see that happening. But a win this week will help them right things. If they lose do not be surprised to hear the Super Bowl Loser curse pop up. (Next up at #14 St. Louis)

8. Atlanta (Last week #7 - Down 1) We will now see if the Falcons early season success is a mirage. They have run the ball so well. Sadly part of it that they can not effectively throw the ball and that will come back and kill them later. Vick needs to hit some passes to loosen things up. They host the Giants this weekend and I think this game will say a lot about where the Falcons go. (Next up vs. #17 New York Giants)

9. Baltimore Ravens (Last week #3 - Down 6) One of are furthest fallers. The Ravens got a does of their own medicine. That was a game they could have won, but they made mistakes and the Broncos made them pay. Their offense is still looking sluggish. McNair is not doing a great job in getting the ball down the field. That compounded with Jamal Lewis having no explosiveness spells trouble for the Ravens, the D and Special Teams are not going to get them two scores each week. (Next up vs. #13 Carolina)

10. Cincinnati (Last week #9 - NC) The Bengals have had a week to lick their wounds. The biggest problem they face next to the poor run defense is that teams have gotten pressure on Palmer. He has made a great comeback from the injury, but that will mean nothing if they lose him to another injury. (Next up at #28 Tampa Bay)

11. New Orleans Saints (Last week # 15 - Up 4) They pull out another victory. I know it's only week six, but I do see a fundamental change in the Saints. Since 1999 they have lost many a game where they were the more talented team. They could not handle prosperity, but it looks like the new coaching staff has instilled something that has not been there for a long time. They know they are in every game. They get a huge test this week as the Eagles roll in. They will need the 12th man this week. (Next up vs. #6 Philadelphia)

12. Jacksonville Jaguars (Last week # 13 - Up 1) They came out and dismantled the Jets, but it came at a cost. They lost Peterson for the season. That on top of losing Hayward and having Storud nicked up should be reasons for concern. This team is built on it's D and not to have that would be devastating especially if the offensive does not continue it's maturation. So they will be happy to have a bye to get people some rest. (Next up Bye)

13. Carolina Panthers (Last week # 14 - Up 1) Slowly rounding back into the shape we all expected, but they are bit maddening. This team just does not put away teams it should. I know I say a win is a win, but too many times they let teams they are much better than stay in games. This week a big road game vs. a quality opponent. (Up Next at #9 Baltimore)

14. St. Louis Rams (Last week # 16 - Up 2) Before I get too mushy about the Rams I have to remember who still owns them and how she and John Shaw screw us out here. I am not a Rams fan, but I rooted for them when they were out here. They intentionally ran that team into the ground and then blamed the fans for not supporting it. Assholes, plain and simple. But I will say they did the right thing by getting Linehan. He has brought this team some calm. He was also very smart to get Hasslet to run the D. They have not appreciably upped the talent from last year. They brought in a couple of guys, but they just are getting more out of them. You can see it. This weekend is a huge game in which they can take the NFC West lead and have the Seahawks chase them. (Next up vs. #7 Seattle)

15. Minnesota Vikings (Last Week # 18 - Up 3) Bounced back from their loss at Buffalo with a win. Even though they took their time Sunday to get things rolling. spotting the Lions a lead and then coming back with 23 in the 4th. I am impressed with their progress, but the uniforms are ridiculous. (Up Next Bye)

16. Dallas Cowboys (Last week # 11 - Down 5) Another big tumbler. They had their chances, but they kept wasting them. I wonder at what point Bill punches Jerry in mouth for T.O. It looks like T.O. is now becoming the distraction everyone was worried about. He has not divided the locker room yet. I say in couple of weeks he sucker punches Drew in the press. The other worrisome thing about the Cowboys is their D has not been as stellar as I thought they were going to be. Other than the Washington game and Titans game they have been pushed around. Having a offense that is turning the ball over never helps, but I thought this team was a top 5 unit. Like many things it appears I am wrong. (Up next vs. #24 Houston)

17. New York Giants (Last week #20 - Up 3) They love to make me look like a fool. Just when I think they are ready to go belly up they don't. But this team still is a disaster waiting to happen. Their defense has too many issues. The back 7 can't cover, they are soft up the gut and their vaunted pass rush is not so vaunty. Going to Atlanta we see what kind of team they are. (Up Next at #8 Atlanta)

18. Kansas City (Last week #21 - Up 3) Herm has done a great job getting this team back on the right path. They have gotten better than expected play from Huard and the Defense keeps getting better. The only concerns are the Tackle spots. It has hampered the running game and LJ is being contained. He has not had one of those breathtaking performances he flashed at the end of last season. He has been frustrated, but he has been a good solider and grinded out tough yards. (Up next at #19 Pittsburgh)

19. Pittsburgh (Last week #12 - Down 7) It looks like the mighty are tumbling. They have not looked in sync for weeks and they have to get it going or this season may be lost before the half way mark. I know it is easy to say, but I think that we are now see the effects of the bike crash. Ben just looks lost out there at time. What is making it even more difficult is that they have taken away Ward who I think is not at 100% himself. Add that with the running game is not being as effective have put the Steelers into a 1-3 hole and with a Chiefs rolling into town things could go from bad to worse. (Up next vs. #18 Kansas City)

20. Washington Redskins (Last week #17 - Down 3) Them and the Giants I will never figure out. But I do believe that both are closer to bottoming out than making deep runs in the playoffs. Again Dan for such a smart business man you run a whacked out football team. If you ran a business like this they would have fired you, twice. But things are looking up Dan. They have to since you are a wee little man. I hope you and Tom have a great time over selling and under performing. (Next up vs. #30 Tennessee)

21. Buffalo Bills (Last week #19 - Down 2) Gentlemen you should consider yourselves lucky that there are a lot of teams worse. I know the Bears are good, but you could have put up a little more fight. (Up next at #31 Detroit)

22. San Francisco 49ers (Last week #26 - Up 4) I know it was only the Raiders, but I am more impressed that they recovered from the ass beating they took to play well. Of the "bad teams" out there this year, this one is showing signs of progress. But I think the good feelings end this weekend. (Up next vs. #5 San Diego)

23. Ohio State (Last week # 32 - Up 9) Look at the teams below and tell me a college team does not deserve to be ranked above them. Hell there are a couple other college teams that may get in. (Up Next - More Raider Jokes)

24. Houston Texans (Last week # 27 - Up 3) A sign your team is bad. You highest moves on the chart are when you don't play. Probably by the end of the season they will be like the 49ers in that you will see progress. (Up Next at #16 Dallas)

25. New York Jets (Last week # 22 - Down 3) After last weeks game the FAA requested they be grounded. Ah there are the Jets we expected this season. This team will have more afternoons like this if they do not find any kind of running game. The Jets are hoping this was an aberration. (Up next vs. #27 Miami)

26. Cleveland Browns (Last week #24 - Down 2) Kellen here is an idea since you want the ball. play without a face mask and keep you mouth open as you run patterns. Do that and there is no way Frye could miss that target, even when he is throwing one of is his ill advised red zone cross the body heaves. (Up next Bye)

27. Miami Dolphins (Last week #25 - Down 2) I don't think Flipper could save this one. (Up next at #25 New York Jets)

28. Tampa Bay (Last week # 29 - Up 1) They may have found something in Gradkowski. He played a good game in a very difficult spot. But sadly this ship has sunk. (Up next vs. #9 Cinncinati)

29. Arizona Cardinals (Last week # 23 - Down 6) The Birds are back and snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. They had that game won, but instead of running in the 4th they kept throwing, stopping the clock enough to let the Chiefs come back. Leinhart did a decent job, but that Line is awful and no matter who the skill players are they are not going to win. Hey good news guys you going to be on Monday night, oh wait you have to face the Bears. (Up next vs. #1 Chicago)

30. Tennessee Titans (Last week # 31 - Up 1) They had their chance to win at Indy. They had the right game plan, but too many mistakes and having a QB who is still too green hurt. They had a great game plan for Indy. Jeff Fischer will make another team happy when he is freed from this miss (Up next at #20 Washington)

31. Detroit Lions (Last week #28 - Down 3) Where have you gone Eric Hipple? The thought most Lions fan have," hey at least the Tigers will hold us over till the Pistons start". (Up Next # vs #21 Buffalo)

32. Green Bay Packers (Last week #30 - Down 2) Wouldn't is suck if after years and years you finally got Pack season tickets and this is what you get. God bless you if can stomach that. I wish this season that they would have played the Bucs. We could have relived those days back in the 80's when that match up was called the "Bay of Pigs". (Up next Bye)

Other receiving scorn - Oakland Raiders (Last week #32 - down 35) Temple is fighting to get them on their schedule (Up next at #3 Denver)