It's Personal: You Decide... FFL

My first experience with Fantasy Football didn't come until I reached Seattle. Even then, it was 3 years after I had arrived. Fantasy Football had never captured my fancy, as it were. I was content to cheer for the Giants and against the Cowboys. The idea of following individual players didn't seem to make much sense; in fact, it almost seemed disloyal. In 2005, I received an email from an old college friend. He told me that another member of the old clan had decided to cease playing, especially since he hadn't been terribly good. So, I said what the heck and threw my name in the mix. The name of my team? The Northwest NeeKnights for all you Monty Python fans. My draft consisted of Shaun Alexander, Larry Johnson, Tom Brady, Antonio Gates, Jimmy Smith, and Anquan Boldin. Now please don't laugh overly much, but I had fallen out of touch with football since moving to Seattle. I followed only the Giants and knew very few other players except for the superstars. And so, before the first week, I dropped Larry Johnson, Jimmy Smith, and Anquan Boldin. After some research, I had determined that Johnson was too young, Smith too old, and Boldin just had a weird-sounding name. I did realize my mistake after doing a bit more research and tried to get them back. Somehow, I succeeded in getting Johnson back. But not the other two. I recovered from losing Smith by picking up Jurevicius. But I could have used Smith. Nevertheless, I won that year by defeating the Gunslingers. And I haven't stopped playing since. Four teams in four leagues this year: New York State of Mind, A$$ Kickin Chickens, Seattle Buzz, and Spruce Moose.

My first experience with Fantasy Football came at the Outback at 27 Possum Park Mall in Newark, DE. The proprietor, an avid football fan, invited 14 of the staff - all guys, I seem to remember - to partake in the fun. As soon as I learned of the opportunity, I b-lined to a book store and purchased at least 3 separate magazines to make myself a fantasy expert. Having never played before, I didn't quite understand how points were awarded, so I concentrated on understanding what role running backs, wide receivers, quarterbacks, kickers, tight ends, and defenses played in the game. I soon learned that strong running backs were a must. Followed by at least 1 great receiver and a serviceable quarterback. I can tell you this. I didn't get Terrell Davis. No Randall Cunningham. Nor Jamal Anderson. Not Steve Young. Suffice it to say, I didn't draft particularly well. You see, I had spent so much time trying to figure out who the diamonds in the rough would be that I forgot to pick the studs, the guys who win FFL leagues. So instead of the highest ranking guys, I chose the likes of Keenan McCardell and Scott Brunell. Yeah, but they weren't bad, you might say. True, but I was only in the middle of the pack that year because I wasted my first 2-3 picks. A good lesson. Now if only I had used that and the other lessons I had learned. Instead, I decided against playing again until I reached Seattle. And only then, 3 years after I arrived. Which meant about 7 years between my first attempt and my second.

Sporting Rants and Raves: September 5, 2009

Happy 73rd birthday to Mr. Bill Mazeroski. Nicknamed 'Maz', Mr. Mazeroski played for the Pittsburgh Pirates for his entire career and was a key member of the 1960 and 1971 World Series teams.

Trivia of the Week
Mazeroski hit the game winning home run in Game 7 of the 1960 World Series. Against which team? Against which pitcher? Extra Credit: Mazeroski also hit a home run in game 1 that gave the Pirates a 6-4 lead and the win. Against which pitcher did he hit that one?

Answer to August 29th's Trivia of the Week
Name the other 3 Giants linebackers in Super Bowls XXI and XXV respectively.
Super Bowl XXI - Gary Reasons, Lawrence Taylor, Harry Carson
Super Bowl XXV - Gary Reasons, Lawrence Taylor, Pepper Johnson

Clausen near perfect in ND's 35-0 win over Nevada
I Just finished listening to / watching the game. And Notre Dame looks like it might just have a team this year. Yes, it's early. Yes, it was Nevada. But it was also a convincing 35-0 win. We shall see...

Pettitte wins 4th straight, Yanks beat Toronto 6-4
Not the most memorable of performances. But still a win. And the Yanks are now 8.5 games up. Barring a meltdown - that at least one New York team has shown in the recent past - they should keep the number one spot to the finish. Still, I wish Texas, Tampa, or Seattle pull that Wild Card off. I don't want to see that other team in the playoffs.

I abbreviate this week's headlines for...

TD's Annual NFL Season Picks
I have partaken in the ridiculous task of choosing every game prior to the season. Of course, that's usually asking for disaster. But here goes...

AFC East: New England 11-5
AFC North: Pittsburgh Steelers 13-3
AFC South: Tennessee Titans 12-4
AFC West: San Diego Chargers 11-5
AFC Wildcards: Baltimore Ravens 12-4 and Houston Texans 10-6

NFC East: Philadelphia Eagles 13-3
NFC North: Chicago Bears 14-2
NFC South: Carolina Panthers 9-7
NFC West: Arizona Cardinals 11-5
NFC Wildcards: New York Giants 11-5 and Washington Redskins 11-5

Super Bowl XLIV will see the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears vie for domination. I give it to Chicago.

Though I haven't written a great deal, let me say that I've spent far too long analyzing the NFL season. And so, I depart. Happy sporting until next I write...

Video of the Week: The Return of Football

This year's first preseason NFL touchdown sees a rookie punter for the Tennessee Oilers (yeah, I know, but see for yourself) run a trick play against the Buffalo-Toronto Bills.

A few thoughts about this...

I'm not looking forward to Chris Collinsworth on Monday Night Football.

Why would you want to run a trick play in the Hall of Fame game? Won't teams now be expecting that all year? I suppose they will only if Hentrich isn't in the game...

If you've played football long enough - and I assume these professionals have - wouldn't you think it's a little strange that not one but two people came completely free from the right side of the defense? Might that clue you in?

I still can't believe Houston lost to Frank Reich and Buffalo all those years ago. One of the most unbelievable games I've ever witnessed. It lead to the demise of the Houston Oilers...

I'm just glad T.O. isn't in this highlight. And that he's not in the NFC East...

25 Things

There's this interesting fad floating about within the world of Facebook that has people writing 25 random thoughts about one's self. Although I've always stayed away from those questions that ask what your favorite color is and when are you happiest, I think this exercise intriguing. And thus, I shall attempt it...

1. I once tried to memorize John Milton's Paradise Lost. I made it to 'So spake the apostate angel, though in pain'.
2. I sang Your Song by Elton John to Joseph from my grandparent's basement before I had ever met him in person.
3. I actively partook in numismatics before I ventured to Seattle. And my prized possessions were a good condition 1909 VDB Lincoln cent, and a fair condition 1832 British haypenny found at the Redwood Flea Market in Yalesville, CT.
4. If you ask me my favorite author and book, I would hesitate because there are so many good authors and so many more good books. Because many of the good authors have written multiple books, of course. But then if I were cornered, I'd answer Hermann Hesse and his book, Narcissus and Goldmund.
5. My idea of cooking: Pour cereal into bowl. Pour milk over cereal. Use spoon to deliver cereal and milk to mouth. Repeat final step until all milk and cereal are gone.
6. I once wrote a 17-page paper describing a 7-Up can. And got a C-.
7. I fit 7 large football players into a silver 1984 Toyota Celica GT Hatchback - called at times the Silver Bullet and Jethro - coming home from football practice one day. I later found out my brother managed nine large football players.
8. In my lifetime, there have been 2 Democrats elected to the presidency. For each of their initial wins (Clinton in '92 and Obama '08), I was just outside Orlando, FL. Those were the only 2 times in my lifetime I've ever been just outside Orlando, FL.
9. When in Rome, I and the other seminarians of the archdiocese of Hartford decided to compose a letter to Pope John Paul II asking for a private audience with him. Because of my handwriting, I was elected to write the letter. We passed it to a Swiss guard and waited for a response. None came. But we later discovered that the Pope reviewed every piece of correspondence that was addressed to him, meaning that he read words I wrote.
10. I miss my paternal grandfather calling me Yardbird and I miss talking to my paternal grandmother across her kitchen table.
11. I miss playing cribbage marathons of 10 or more consecutive games with my maternal grandfather and I miss hearing my maternal grandmother hum Lara's theme while I rested on the front couch.
12. I will always remember the day I walked out of my brother's garage and watched the old man's jaw drop as we initiated our last trek to Yankee Stadium. The old man and his two boys.
13. I will also remember the day Uncle Mark and his girlfriend Ruth brought us to Fairly Ridiculous University (Farleigh Dickinson) to watch the Giants training camp. And getting Mark Bavaro's autograph.
14. I vowed I would never pray for another game after Super Bowl XXV. I didn't. Until Super Bowl XLIII.
15. Fudge Swirl. Whipped Cream. Hershey's Syrup. Splash of milk. 'Nuff said.
16. I would be happy if I could have my mother's Christmas cookies every day of the year. Especially those peanut butter cookies with the Hershey's kiss in the middle of them.
17. Give me an English word - any English word - and ask me its origin. Then don't talk to me for the next 15 minutes because I'm off trying to find out its etymology following it back through French, Latin, Greek, and finally to its Indo-European root.
18. When I was about 2 I used to sit outside in the dog house with my Boxer, Clancy.
19. My favorite class in college had to be the History of Calculus in which I learned that the coordinate system should be Fermatian and not Cartesian, that Leibniz and Newton quarreled over who invented the calculus, and that it is impossible to square a circle since pi is a transcendental and not an algebraic irrational number.
20. And my second favorite class in college was the Intellectual History of the U.S. from 1865-present in which I wrote a 40 page paper on the importance of Playboy for the masculinization of men between 1955-1970. The university had every volume except for the initial. So, no I didn't see Marilyn in the nude.
21. The vice principal at my high school was named David; he wasn't particularly well liked. Most everyone mocked him with the name, Davey Dawg. When he caught on, they reduced calling him Davey Dawg to the times when I was in the general vicinity. And the name stuck. Through high school only, thank God.
22. When I pull out my wallet, there is a circled imprint on its back that people think is caused by a condom. It's in fact a rosary ring blessed by Pope John Paul II.
23. I was once able to repeat to a customer, 'You'd like the Kookaburra Wings, Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, Walkabout Soup, Rockhampton Ribeye, and the Drover's Platter. With a Wallaby Darned and a Foster's. G'day Mate!'
24. The old man is hands down the best coach I've ever had.
25. I've been called a cold fish, at times, because I'm not altogether emotional. But never doubt that I care for and love my friends and family more than they can know.
    

Video of the Week: The Greatest Super Bowl Catch

The debate is raging after Big Ben's throw to Santonio Holmes. Who has the greatest catch in Super Bowl history? You decide. Leave a comment with your choice and the reason for it...

Terry Bradshaw to Lynn Swann


Eli Manning to David Tyree


Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes

Art in All its Forms: Super Bowl XLIII

Anyone who witnessed this year's Super Bowl witnessed a work of art, an aesthetic masterpiece that all football fans can treasure. And I can say this objectively as I am neither a fan of the Cardinals nor the Steelers.

It began with a beautiful Pittsburgh drive. Parker, Ward, Parker, Parker, Miller. It seemed as though the pundits would be right about the Cardinals' demise. And about the Steelers' domination through a pounding running game and Big Ben's timely throws. As I watched, I wondered if the Cardinals had any chance whatsoever.

Until the Cardinals were able to accomplish a feat I thought only their opposition could, i.e. a goal line stand. With the help of a good challenge. A Pittsburgh field goal ensued, and the game stood at 3-0.

The Cardinals came onto the field and looked a bit lost. Unable to get anything going. It was all Steelers. A punt followed.

Pittsburgh got the ball back and staged another long drive. Early in the second, it was 10-0. And people were wondering if the commercials were going to get any better.

But a good story line usually begins with the predictable. Thus was the first quarter written.

Arizona then decided to throw the consummate curve ball by doing what I can imagine every Cardinals fan thought they should do. They put Warner all alone in the backfield and let him start throwing the altogether effective short passes. With his quick delivery, he picked apart the number one defense on this drive giving the story some obvious foreshadowing. And what better way to end the drive than with a touchdown to a Mr. Ben Patrick who can claim that his first touchdown pass of the year was in the Super Bowl.

Pittsburgh came up short the next series. And then so did the Cardinals. Would it become a defensive struggle? If so, I couldn't see the Cardinals outlasting the Steelers.

Then, there came a twist of fate. The unexpected. Big Ben threw the first interception of the game giving the Cardinals amazingly good field position. Warner passed them down the field and got the Cards to the one yard line.

Then, all hell broke loose. Harrison intercepted Warner and took the ball through the entire state of Arizona, finally stumbling through Breaston and Fitzgerald for the longest play in Super Bowl history. 100 yards.

End Act I. Stunning. The mighty Steelers looked as though they had completely deflated the Cardinals. How could the red birds recover?

Act II began after an aged Bruce slid crotch first into the camera. Not the closeup in which I had an interest. The Cardinals took possession and did nothing with it. Time was slipping away.

Pittsburgh then staged a eight minute long drive that seemed to spell the end for the upstart Cardinals. 'At least they got there' I heard those around me say. 'Everyone knew Pittsburgh would win'. And so, it was.

Except that Arizona did the unthinkable, again. Against the Steelers. Another goal line stand. How? And yet, what was the point? Even with just a field goal, it was 20-7. And time was not an Arizona ally.

The next stalled drive didn't help them either. It was the fourth quarter.

Pittsburgh stalled too. A rare three and out.

And then, it happened. A phenomenon that caused every Steelers fan in the world to worry and every football fan to begin paying attention again. Breaston, Urban, Fitzgerald, Arrington, Fitzgerald, Fitzgerald, Hightower, Fitzgerald. 8 for 8 and 87 yards later, Warner had lead the Cardinals in a perfect drive to a Fitzgerald touchdown. Fitzgerald, who had 1 catch for 12 yards in the first half suddenly found the openings in the Pittsburgh D. And remember that this wasn't just any defense. This was the number 1 defense in the league. And Warner picked them apart as if they were the Lions.

The Arizona D stopped Pittsburgh. Another rare three and out.

An Arizona series that looked as though it would continue Kurt's fantastic run saw three straight incomplete passes at the Pittsburgh 36. Too long for a field goal, they opted to punt. A beautiful punt that pinned Pittsburgh at the 1.

And Pittsburgh couldn't budge the Arizona D. In fact, they got moved backwards 1 yard for a safety. 20-16 Pittsburgh. Was this really happening?

Then, there came what might have been the play of the game, had the outcome been different. Kurt tossed one of his quick passes over the middle and into the hands of Larry Fitzgerald. And, boy did he run. He wasn't touched. 64 yards and the unthinkable had happened. The Arizona Cardinals lead the game 23-20 in one of the unlikeliest comebacks - and also the biggest - in Super Bowl history. The offensive juggernaut - with a lot of help from their own defensive force - had stepped right back into the game.

Yet, the storied franchise proved why it is storied. It was not their time to fold. It was not their time to hand the title to this destitute franchise. Instead, they worked down the field. And they, one of the scrappiest, grittiest teams displayed the absolute beauty of the sport as Big Ben threw a perfect ball to a barely open Santonio Holmes for the final touchdown. For a team that is known for its hard-nosed dominating smash mouth football, it took a page from Arizona's book and ended on one of the most gracefully beautiful passing plays I've ever witnessed in a football game.

Though the underdog would try once more to win the day, Arizona fell short with a well-timed strip of Warner. And the day went to the Steelers.

But honestly, this was a game of beauty. Told only as the most noteworthy of bards could tell.

Video of the Week: Super Bowl XLIII

We pick up the game with four minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The Arizona Cardinals retain a seven point lead, the result of a quick first quarter start. Can they hold on?

Sporting Rants and Raves: TD's Official NFL Championship Picks and then some...

Hello sports fans...

Until now, this blog has covered football, namely my weekly picks. And a little baseball. One of the earliest posts was about the trip the old man, my brother, and I took to Yankee Stadium for the last time. Now that I'm trying to put a bit more structure around the blog - as much for my own sake as for yours - I will be covering my take on sports on Saturdays. No, this doesn't mean I'll altogether neglect sports on other days should they need to be discussed at any length. But, the bulk of my sporting opinions will appear on this day of the week.

As for what will be discussed... If it's about sports and it strikes my fancy, it's up for grabs. I can tell you now that I know nothing about cricket, Nascar, rugby, and cheese rolling. You'll most likely not see much about these sports. Basketball, golf, tennis, and hockey. I enjoy watching all of them and I happen to know the rules. But I don't follow them religiously. So, they'll appear from time to time. Football and baseball? Why yes, I will talk about them. Oh, and softball too. As in updates about how my teams - the one for which I play and the one for which I serve as coach - are progressing.

That said, let's begin...

Football
I know. You don't have to say it. I am choosing with a ridiculously bad 33% accuracy in the NFL Playoffs. Egregious. Disgusting. Terrible. Ghastly. Kiss of Death. You can send all other comments and word ideas to:

I_can't_choose_an_NFL_playoff_game_correctly_if_my_life_
depended_on_it@ugh.com.

But that won't stop me from trying again. Because if there's one thing I've learned, when the going gets tough, a 300 lb lineman knocks you into next Tuesday. Learned that in high school football.

Philadelphia @ Arizona
Do you believe in Arizona? Do you? I do. I believe in their defense. I believe in their passing game. I even believe in their running game. I think they deserve to be in this game. Yes, there are those who say that Jake Delhomme lost that game last week more than the Cardinals won it. But Jake's interceptions don't account for the Arizona offense lighting up a good defense. It doesn't account for the likes of James and Fitzgerald, not to mention Mr. Warner. But. A big but. Although I believe in them, I wonder at their ability to play against an Eagles team with momentum. An Eagles team that has one of the top defenses in the league. An Eagles team with Donovan playing like Eli did last year. If the Eagles play like they did last week, I think the Cards don't make the trip to Tampa. But there's that chance that the Eagles of the Eagles-Bengals rancid tie game appears in the desert. An hallucination. Thing is, this whole wild card team marching through the playoffs with momentum thing seems to be all the rage of late. For that reason, TD chooses: Philadelphia Eagles

Baltimore @ Pittsburgh
No NFL team ever wants to play another NFL team against whom they've won the prior two regular season meetings. See the 2008 post season Giants v. Cowboys game. They're too familiar with each other. And honestly, a point that Peter King made earlier in the week, they're just so similar. Quarterbacks that need to play intelligently, but who don't need to win games (Flacco and Roethlisberger). Running backs that you shouldn't take for granted (Parker and McGahee). Linebacker corps that strike fear into the hearts of any offense (Lewis, Suggs and Farrior, Harrison). Exceptionally strong defensive backs (Polamalu and Reed). Straight up, I don't see a lot of points scored in this one. It's going to be a title bout. But the Steelers have two advantages. 1) Pittsburgh. They're the only team that has made use of home field. 2) Health. The Ravens have a few key players out, like McClain. The Steelers enter the game with no significant injuries. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers.

Let the battle of Pennsylvania begin...

Baseball

The question: Does Mark McGwire belong in baseball's Hall of Fame?

I am a Libra. Whether that means anything or not, I believe entirely in balance. So, I'm not going to make a determination based solely on statistics. Oh yes, they're important. They are the foundation of the choosing. Some guy who batted .200 and had an .850 fielding percentage in 2000 games in the major leagues is obviously not deserving of the Hall. But there's more than stats. There's sportsmanship. There's morality. There's importance to the team. And there's the love of the game. They all play a part.

That said, let's do a little statistical comparison to see if he's worthy. (Thanks to baseball-reference.com) First, let's take a look at some statistically similar players.

Stats
Gil Hodges. Didn't make it into the Hall. Had a better batting average but certainly not better on base percentage or slugging percentage. And 200 fewer homeruns.

Okay, so if Hodges was just on the cusp, then McGwire should be in, at least based on his stats, yes? Let's take a look at a few more. Let's try 1 who is in the Hall. Harmon Killebrew. Killebrew with a .256 batting average, .376 on base percentage, and .509 slugging percentage fails to approach McGwire in all categories. Fielding percentage? Same. Killebrew had a .981; McGwire a .992. Homeruns. Killebrew had 573; McGwire had 583. All signs point to Big Mac. Except for the fact the Killebrew played for 22 years as compared to McGwire's 16. And a few other differences I'll cover later.

One more only. I promise. Someone who will most likely never have the opportunity to be considered. A fellow Bash Brother, Jose Canseco. In 17 years, Canseco had more hits and a higher batting average but a lesser on base and slugging percentage. McGwire had more walks and fewer strikeouts but many fewer stolen bases. Fielding? McGwire certainly had the edge. Who doesn't remember the ball that hit Jose on the head only to become a homerun? Still, statistically, they're pretty close.

Then, does McGwire belong statistically? He's on the cusp.

Postseason

McGwire has 1 ring. He has a .217 batting average, .320 on base percentage, and .349 slugging percentage in 10 post season series.

Hodges? 2 rings. A .267 batting average, .349 on base percentage, and .412 slugging percentage. In 7 post season appearances. Hodges takes this one.

Killebrew? No rings. A .250 average, .444 on base percentage, and .500 slugging percentage. Killebrew proves that he can do the deed when the deed needs doing.

Canseco? 2 rings. The second with the Yankees, barely. A .184 average, .315 on base percentage, and .398 slugging. Canseco proves that he's just happy to be there.

McGwire loses in this category

Importance to the Team(s)

What does the player mean to the team? Could the team win if that person weren't playing?

Hodges? Well, that's a tough question and much of the reason there's so much controversy about him. He was an important part of the Dodgers' dynasty of the 1950s. But, it can't be said that they wouldn't have won without him. He was a first baseman, a good one at that. But still a first baseman. Not a very active position on the whole. Not like catcher or short stop. Then again, there was his batting. A feared hitter. But as feared as the Duke? Not quite. And he did do his batting in the batter friendly 50s. Important, yes. But not critical.

Killebrew? He began with the Senators. If that means nothing to you, please note that the Senators won 1 World Series thanks to some guy named Walter Johnson against the heavily favored New York Giants. Other than that year - 1924 - and a few others - '25, '33 - in their 59 year history in Washington D.C. they were "First in war, first in peace, and last in the American League." Things haven't changed much in Washington. In any case, back to Harmon. He played first for the Senators and then moved with them to Minnesota. In essence, it was a new team. And he anchored it. He was its captain. Not to mention a good third baseman. A more active position than first. And he could hit. My God, he could hit. Blasts into upper decks. Pitchers did not want to pitch to the guy. See his 1519 walks as compared to McGwire's 1317. And that was in the pitching strong 1960s. For this reason Killebrew deserves his Hall of Fame call.

Canseco? Oakland, Texas, Toronto, NYY, Boston. Was he an important part of any of these teams? Oakland, arguably yes. I'll give it to him. The other 7 years of his career, eh. Not so much. Not altogether significant were his contributions. An outfielder, every Hall of Fame voter would be lying if they didn't think of that guy as the one off of whom the ball bounced for a homerun. I know, I'm beating a dead horse. But, really, that was funny.

McGwire, then. Important? To Oakland, I would argue yes. He always was the more reliable of the Bash Brothers. And he had a certain charisma that Canseco lacked. A feel good quality that made fans cheer for him even if they hated him. To St. Louis? If I'm honest, he was. He was on the front end of the Cardinals' building of a very good team, though I'd give a heck of a lot more credit to La Russa for that.

McGwire certainly wins out over Canseco on this one. And perhaps surpasses Hodges. But he's way short of Killebrew. We'll call this off the cusp.

Importance to Baseball

McGwire is unique in this category as he engaged in one of the most exciting competitions in recent baseball memory. What baseball fan can forget his epic struggle with Sammy Sosa in 1998? It was a battle for the ages to surpass a mark held for 37 years by the famed Roger Maris.

But there's a counterpoint. That is, an older bespectacled McGwire sitting with the likes of Rafael Palmeiro, Sammy Sosa, and Jose Canseco in Washington D.C. testifying about performance enhancing drugs. Rafael said he didn't, but he lied. Sammy said he didn't; we don't know if he lied or not. Jose said he did thus quashing his standing in baseball. Mark? Well, Mark wouldn't comment. "I'm not here to talk about the past," he stated in that chamber.

My take? This is a wash. The first most certainly makes him a Hall of Fame candidate. The second most certainly does not. So, I throw this out.

Conclusion
Statistically during season play, he's a maybe. Postseason statistically, no. Important to his teams, I give him a somewhat. And important to baseball, he's questionable.

Halls of Fame are not for the maybes, thus the reason that I'd say no.

Softball
As crazy as this might sound, next weekend marks the first practice for the Thrusters - the team for which I play - and the first batting practice for the Buzz - the team I coach.

Softball has begun...

TD's Official Divisional Playoff Picks

Indy and its MVP? See ya later. The Falcons and their rookie of the year? Umm, no. The resurgent Dolphins and the comeback player of the year? Nice try. The Viqueens and the QB about whom I can say nothing of note? Buh bye.

From 12 to 8 and dropping like flies. The NFC North made like the Lie Downs and went oh fer nuthin in the playoffs. Same with the AFC East. Who saw that coming after last year? This weekend will see an NFC East winner. And perhaps even an NFC West surprise, though doubtful. And could the AFC championship game be an AFC North slugfest? Not if the Titans and Chargers have anything to say about it. The games are getting tougher to choose...

Baltimore @ Tennessee
This may prove to be the best game of the weekend. And that's saying a lot. The last time the Ravens won against the Titans in the playoffs, they won a Super Bowl. Against the Giants no less. But the Titans have had their own big win against the Ravens in 2003; the roles reversed, the Wild Card Titans gave AFC North Champion Baltimore an early exit. What will happen tomorrow? Both defenses come to play. I think Collins goes down a few times. And so does Flacco. A low scoring game overall. The name of this game? Turnovers. I think the team with the most turnovers has the fewest points in the end. TD chooses: Tennessee Titans

Arizona @ Carolina
Stat of the week. The Arizona Cardinals are 2-20 in the Eastern Time Zone in their last 22 games. Are you kidding me? That's a 9% winning percentage. NINE. The Carolina Panthers are 9-0 at home. Again, NINE. If the Cardinals hope to win, I think they need a few miracles along the way. Life Edgerrin James running twice as well as he did last weekend. And Boldin and Fitzgerald not dropping a thing. And Warner playing like he did in the greatest show on turf. Possible? Yes. Whisenhunt can obviously motivate his team. But this Cardinal team is not playing an upstart team that's just happy to be there. John Fox has his team playing and believing that they can go all the way. I'm all about miracles. And I'll probably be rooting for the Cards. But I can't, in good conscience, choose them. TD chooses: Carolina Panthers

Philadelphia @ New York Football Giants
I find it somewhat ironic that the Iggles are in a similar position to that of last year's Giants. A Wild Card winner on a tear. AND in this game last year, the Giants knocked off the heavily favored NFC East Champion Dallas Cowboys in Texas Stadium. I've heard many people say that this is the upset of the weekend just waiting to happen. But, I think there's one significant difference between last year's NFC East Divisional playoff game and this year's. That's about 40 degrees with a wind chill feeling about 20 degrees below that. There is a winter storm warning for the area according to the Weather Channel that will bring a significant amount of snow prior to the game. And it doesn't promise to get any warmer. That means the running game becomes all the more important. You won't see many bombs in this game. It's going to be an old fashioned NFC East slugfest. Yes, I envision the Eagles getting some points throwing underneath where the Giants don't cover well. But in the end, I see a healthy dose of Ward and Jacobs floating like a butterfly and pounding like a Mack truck respectively. TD chooses: New York Football Giants

San Diego @ Pittsburgh
The last game of the weekend sees the Bolts visiting the Steelers in a rematch of the only 11-10 game in NFL history. In that earlier game, the Bolts somehow matched defensive wits with the consistently defensively minded Steelers. And now, in this game the Chargers come in with a 5 game winning streak and a perseverance seen by champions. There will likely be no appearance by LT. But DS seems just as ready to carry the load with Michael Bennett throwing in a few runs for good measure. Philip Rivers is playing like he wants a Super Bowl. And the Chargers D is ready to face anything any team seems to throw at them. But they're in Steeler territory. And it's not easy to win there. And doubly difficult during the playoffs. Don't underestimate Big Ben who knows how to win, even with a concussion. And don't underestimate that defense on their home turf in the frigid cold. Again, I think the running game wins this one, and I'm just not sure that Sproles is up for leading his team in that weather. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers

TD's Official NFL Wild Card Picks

Time for the wild card games. And what a Wild Card weekend it is. Would you want to play the Eagles? Or the Chargers? No thank you. I'm not feeling good about this, but I have to try...

Atlanta @ Arizona
Have you noticed that three of the six teams are birds? And that two of those birds are in this game? The Falcons bring the Rookie of the Year and Michael Turner to Phoenix. And the Cards bring their own one-time MVP. I'm not convinced with the Cardinals. They don't have a running game, per se. But if they're passing game is on, it's on. I think Atlanta comes to play. TD chooses: Atlanta Falcons

Indianapolis @ San Diego
I don't know how to call this one. Indy has the deserving league MVP. He wills his team to win. San Diego has something intangible, a will to win of their own. And these two have played each other well in the past. Oddly, I think the difference will be coaching. Dungy blows Norv away. TD chooses: Indianapolis Colts

Baltimore @ Miami
Another one. I suppose all games are difficult this time of year. Or at least they should be. They - whomever 'they' happen to be - say that defense wins football games. From what I've seen, that's true 9 of 10 times. Unless you put Montana, Rice, and Craig against them. But that's just me. Sorry, Tony and Bill. TD chooses: Baltimore Ravens

Philadelphia @ Minnesota
Philly scares me a great deal. They remind me of last year's Giants. Except more dysfunctional. And with, perhaps, a better running back. Okay, not better, but more versatile, I'll say. Then there's Minnesota. I just don't think highly of them. They barely made it into the playoffs. And they have a QB who can play... sometimes. And a running game. I must not forget about the running game. What about their running game? TD chooses: Philadelphia Eagles

NFL Picks Revisited Again... How did we fare?

Although the picks for this coming weekend's games will come later in the week, I wanted to check to see how Uncle Mark and I fared from the beginning of the year - and then how I fared with some of the picks I changed mid-year. You will find our original picks below followed by the real winner.

AFC East:

Uncle Mark Initial: New England

TD Initial: New England

Playoffs Started Today: New England

By Season's End: New England
Winner: Miami Dolphins
Comment: I don't think anyone saw this coming, but good for them.

AFC North:

Uncle Mark Initial: Cleveland

TD Initial: Cleveland
Playoffs Started Today: Pittsburgh
By Season's End: Pittsburgh
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers
Comment: As of mid-season, there really was no doubt.

AFC South:

Uncle Mark Initial: Jacksonville
TD Initial: Jacksonville

Playoffs Started Today: Tennessee

By Season's End: Tennessee
Winner: Tennessee Titans
Comment: I just don't know if they have what it takes to get to the big game.

AFC West:

Uncle Mark Initial: San Diego
TD Initial: San Diego

Playoffs Started Today: Denver

By Season's End: Denver
Winner: San Diego Chargers
Comment: Not Orange Crushed, Orange Lambasted..

AFC Wildcards:

Uncle Mark Initial: Pittsburgh and Indianapolis
TD Initial: Pittsburgh and Indianapolis

Playoffs Started Today: Baltimore and New York

By Season's End: Buffalo and San Diego
Wild Cards: Indianapolis and Baltimore
Comment: Peyton does deserve MVP. Flacco does not deserve Rookie of the Year.

Notably Absent:
How in God's name did the Jets flounder? Mr. Favre, go home.
Though no New England fan, I feel for a team that goes misses the playoffs at 11-5 while they watch an 8-8 team go to the big dance.
Yeah, I already said Orange Lambasted.

NFC East:

Uncle Mark Initial: Dallas
TD Initial: Dallas

Playoffs Started Today: New York

By Season's End: New York
Winner: New York Football Giants
Comment: The team with the most depth in the NFL but they need big mo'.

NFC North:

Uncle Mark Initial: Green Bay
TD Initial: Minnesota

Playoffs Started Today: Chicago

By Season's End: Minnesota
Winner: Minnesota Vikings
Comment: Quite the crapshoot for this one, huh? Does anyone else see the Viqueens going anywhere?

NFC South:

Uncle Mark Initial: Tampa Bay
TD Initial: Carolina

Playoffs Started Today: Carolina

By Season's End: Carolina
Winner: Carolina Panthers
Comment: In the end, I think this was the best division in football...

NFC West:

Uncle Mark Initial: Seattle
TD Initial: Seattle

Playoffs Started Today: Arizona

By Season's End: Arizona
Winner: Arizona Cardinals
Comment: And this was the worst.

NFC Wildcards:

Uncle Mark Initial: Minnesota and Philadelphia
TD Initial: New York and New Orleans

Playoffs Started Today: Tampa Bay and Washington

By Season's End: Tampa Bay and Washington
Wild Cards: Philadelphia and Atlanta
Comment: Please explain to me how the Eagles pulled this one off. And Matt Ryan is the Rookie of the Year.

Notably Absent:
I can give you three ways the Eagles pulled that one off:
The stellar character of America's Team
The decimated defense of the Yuccaneers
The mere mediocrity of the midway's madams.

TD's Official NFL Picks - Week 17

The final week. Five teams vie for two playoff positions in the NFC while six vie for three positions in the AFC. Suffice it to say, this final week promises to be one of joy and heartbreak alike. I have decided to choose these picks binarily. Games that mean something. And games that don't.

For the love of the game:
Detroit @ Green Bay
The Detroit Lie Downs will go the way of the auto industry this weekend. The only thing that can help them now is the government's financial bailout money. TD chooses: Green Bay Packers

Cleveland @ Pittsburgh
Why is this one meaningless? Pittsburgh has the second spot in the playoffs. And Tennessee has already secured the first. Still, a Pittsburgh - Cleveland game has always been more than just about any playoffs. I just wish that the Brownies could hold their own in this contest. But, they're out of their league. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers

Kansas City @ Cincinnati
Not at all excited about this one. Not much to say about it, in fact. This one's a crapshoot. TD chooses: Kansas City Chiefs

Tennessee @ Indianapolis
What will these teams do in this one? Reminiscent of last year's Pats - Giants season ender but without all the 16-0 hoopla. They're familiar with each other. They're both in the playoffs. And I think both will want to make a statement. It's more important for Peyton to make this statement. But will it be loud enough? TD chooses: Tennessee Titans

Washington @ San Francisco
It's a shame this one doesn't mean anything because I think it could be a good one. Washington gave a little too little too late last week against the Eagles, but they looked good in doing it. And Singletary has his miners playing for all the pride they're worth. I say Mike makes a final statement. TD chooses: San Francisco 49ers

Seattle @ Arizona
In this game another Mike makes his last game time appearance as Seattle's head coach. And based on the way the Cards have been playing the last five weeks, I think the Seachickens might actually give him a 'W'. TD chooses: Seattle Seahawks

For the love of the playoffs:
Carolina @ New Orleans
Okay, so I know Carolina's already in. So are the Falcons, for that matter. But their respective spots are not yet secure. And the difference between winning and losing this game could be not only a first round bye but a game played at home after that first round bye for the Panthers. That's why I think John Fox will have them ready to win. TD chooses: Carolina Panthers

Chicago @ Houston
Da Bears. Dey have a chance but not a good one. And dis is no gimme game. Houston's disappointin' but dey can still play. Can Lovie get em to play like dey can? Eh, sure. TD chooses: Chicago Bears

New York Football Giants @ Minnesota Vikings
But this is the game the Bears need to be watching. I'd imagine all Bears fans are Giants fans this weekend. But with Jacobs most likely sitting this weekend and with the G-men looking into the playoffs, I'm just not sure they'll be putting their best foot forward. In any case, this is no easy game for either team. TD chooses: New York Football Giants

New England @ Buffalo
Can Buffalo play spoiler two weeks in a row? Although possible, Belichick has had Buffalo's number. And I just don't think they're up for a dogfight with the likes of the Patsies. TD chooses: New England Patriots

Oakland @ Tampa Bay
A pirate battle. There be some backstabbin' to be done. Oakland has improved minimally, but not enough to shut down Tampa. TD chooses: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

St. Louis @ Atlanta
For a couple moments during the middle of the season when the Rams beat the Cowboys and Redskins, I thought they were showing some kind of rebirth. Instead, it was just a gasp for some air. They've since descended into the pit again. Not good. TD chooses: Atlanta Falcons

Dallas @ Philadelphia
A perfect ending to the season for these two teams. I'll admit that I'm more concerned about the ability for the Cowboys offense to be explosive, though Westbrook underneath is no picnic. Still, unless Buddy Ryan shows up on the Philly sideline, I've gotta go for the Iggles. TD chooses: Philadelphia Eagles

Jacksonville @ Baltimore
I only chose the Jags last week out of obligation. Believe you me, I ain't obligated to no one to choose them this week. And so I ain't. TD chooses: Baltimore Ravens

Miami @ New York Jets
Can Miami pull off one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history? From 1-15 to 11-5 and atop the AFC East? From what I've seen, yes. Not to mention the fact that the Jets seem to have hung up their cleats after that game with Tennessee. What's up with that? TD chooses: Miami Dolphins

Denver @ San Diego
Beware the Bolts. It's almost as if they're on a mission. And there has been a precedent set of late for rather low seeds to make a statement in the playoffs, e.g. 2005-6 Pittsburgh Steelers and 2007-8 New York Giants. If I thought Denver was the better team or could even attempt to stand in their way, I'd choose 'em. But I don't think it's true, so I won't. TD chooses: San Diego Chargers

TD's Official NFL Picks - Week 16

The season has already left 13 teams wondering how the 2009-10 season will treat them. There are 14 teams vying for 7 remaining playoff spots. And 5 are in like Flynn, although 3 of the 5 are looking to secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs. That said, I have organized the picks into different categories this week: those games being played for pride alone, those games in which a spoiler can still have satisfaction, those games with teams still in the playoff hunt, and those being played for home field advantage. No Pick of the Week this week as there are multiple good games on the docket...

For Pride:
San Francisco @ St. Louis
San Fran's playing some good ball lately. Perhaps it wasn't too soon for Singletary. As for St. Louis, well, there's always next year? TD chooses: San Francisco 49ers

Cincinnati @ Cleveland
The battle of Ohio. And no one seems to care. Ken Dorsey will continue to play the part of human punching bag. While Cincinnati continues to attempt to achieve mediocrity. TD chooses: Cincinnati Bengals

Houston @ Oakland
I could envision an alternate universe in which Houston goes to the playoffs this year and Indy does not. But no. They play for pride this weekend, wondering when their time will come. Oakland? I won't even start. They're just playing because AD said so. TD chooses: Houston Texans

New Orleans @ Detroit
Need I say anything about this game? TD chooses: New Orleans Saints

The Spoilers
Miami @ Kansas City
Miami is still in the thick of the AFC East race. But I don't envy them playing in KC in late December. Not to mention the fact that the Chiefs have to be royally upset about their collapse against San Diego. Still, I think Sparano will get them ready. TD chooses: Miami Dolphins

New York Jets @ Seattle
The weather promises to be messy in Seattle for this one. But the Jets are no strangers to the cold in their eastern home. I think this one comes down to the running game. Jets? Have one. Seahawks? Not so much. TD chooses: New York Jets

Buffalo @ Denver
This game intrigues me. Two cold weather teams battling it out. Denver is on the verge of the AFC West Championship. If only they can win this one. Buffalo lacks Trent Edwards, but Losman is sufficient to get the job done. I'm going with an emotional pick on this one, because I want to see Denver and San Diego battle it out next weekend for the AFC West crown. TD chooses: Buffalo Bills

Green Bay @ Chicago
Norse division rivals. Late January. Soldier Field. Wintery weather. Awesome. Green Bay's officially out. But Chicago's still got an outside shot. I think this one is about the running game too. TD chooses: Chicago Bears

Playoff Spots at Stake
Baltimore @ Dallas
A heavyweight D against a dangerous O. My two least favorite teams in the league. I hope they beat the crap out of one another. And, in the end, TD chooses: Baltimore Ravens

Arizona @ New England
The Cards have little to play for. No chance of home field. They better just get Anquan healthy and ready for the first round. New England? They need this one. And they get it. TD chooses: New England Patriots

San Diego @ Tampa Bay
The Bucs have a stifling defense that can hammer on the Chargers. But based on last week's game against the Chiefs, I think the Chargers are hitting their stride. They believe. And again, I want to see the showdown next week for the AFC West crown. TD chooses: San Diego Chargers

Atlanta @ Minnesota
If Jackson plays the same way he did last week, Atlanta's in trouble. I don't think he will. TD chooses: Atlanta Falcons

Philadelphia @ Washington
Though only an outside chance, both teams still have the capability of making the playoffs. The Redskins, however, are spinning out of control. Meanwhile, the Iggles are taking flight. TD chooses: Philadelphia Eagles

Home Field
Pittsburgh @ Tennessee
I love this battle. This is the test to see if Tennessee can keep up after a couple questionable outings recently. I don't think they pass. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers

Carolina @ New York Football Giants
Technically, Carolina has not yet secured a playoff spot. But I think they will. I just don't think this will be the game in which they do it. Primarily because the Giants have to jump start their offense and get a move on into the playoffs. Or else they will meet a first or second round ouster. I can't back away from them now. TD chooses: New York Football Giants

TD's Thursday Night Fourth Quarter Pick - Indianapolis @ Jacksonville

For the second week running, I have neglected my responsibilities as a chooser of Thursday night football matchups. So, before the game is over...

Indianapolis @ Jacksonville
Yes, I saw the score. And yes, I've said that I will not pick Jacksonville again this season because they don't do right by me. So, having seen that they are ahead, I am verklempt. Earlier in the season, JB reported back to me in the midst of a game and took the loser at the time. But I hesitate to do that here. No, because I was lax, I must take the team that I have sworn not to take since they do me wrong. TD chooses: Jacksonville Jaguars

TD's Official NFL Picks - Week 15

We have come to it at last. The playoffs. A time when men and women are consumed in a flurry of activity. Smack talking, commonplace within offices and amongst friends. Otherwise effective employees are trolling websites for some golden nugget, for some silver bullet that will convice them of their chances or send them to add the likes of Bess and Thigpen.

No, I'm not crazy. I know it's only week 15. But for Fantasy Football, the time is now. I play in two leagues. In the one with a few college buddies back east, I began at 6-2 but finished at 8-6. Good enough for fifth place; the top 8 go to the playoffs. In the other league mostly composed of the players on the softball team I coached this past year, I started at 3-5 but managed an 8-6 finish. Good enough for fourth place; the top 4 go to the playoffs.

We'll see how it turns out. Now, for the picks...

New England @ Oakland
The Pats have little room for error, and I'm sure Belichick has relayed the message in no uncertain terms. Though Cassel may be grieving and the linebacker corp in shambles, the Pats won't allow this game to slip against a still inferior team. TD chooses: New England Patriots

San Diego @ Kansas City
Can you believe the Bolts still have a chance to get into the playoffs at 5-8? In fact, that chance would mean winning the division. The Bolts would have to win their final three while the Broncos lose their final three. The Bolts have KC, TB, and Denver. The Broncs have Carolina, Buffalo, and SD. Yes, the chances are slim, but slim at least means existent. As for KC, they can only play spoiler. And they have the venue in Arrowhead to do the damage. But I don't think they'll pull it off. And I'm rooting for a meaningful final game that decides the AFC Champion. TD chooses: San Diego Chargers

Seattle @ St. Louis
As most of you know, I am a Seattle resident and therefore - unless they're playing the Jints - root for the home team. If I weren't a Seattle resident, I would have to be paid to care about this game. As it stands, neither has much more to gain from this game than pride and the higher draft pick. That said, I was impressed with how well the Seaducks played last week against New England. Meanwhile, St. Louis hasn't impressed anyone doing anything of note recently. TD chooses: Seattle Seahawks

Tennessee @ Houston
The Titans still have something for which to play, i.e. home field advantage throughout the playoffs. They have just about everything else they need. It shouldn't matter. I will harp on this point whenever a team that has already made the playoffs plays from here on out. They should play as if they're not in the playoffs. Yes, injuries happen. And, worst case scenario is that someone gets hurt badly enough for that person to be lost for the rest of the year. I understand that argument. Here's the counterargument. If people are playing at full speed, without hesitation, they are less likely to get hurt. There's still the chance, no doubt. But that's football. And if you'd like a real life example from last season, see the Jints-Pats game. TD chooses: Tennessee Titans

Buffalo @ New York Jets
This game qualifies as the 'what the hell are both of you teams doing' matchup of the weekend. Honestly. I picked San Fran last week against the Jets, but it was just so I could find a game that allowed me to move ahead of JB. (Little good that did.) But I got that one. I didn't expect it. What it proves is that the Jets don't know how to put the nail in the proverbial coffin. Now, they're in a three-way tie atop the East again. Buffalo's not much better. They start with their best record since their Super Bowl run in the mid-90s and then fall off the face of the earth to become dead last in a competitive division. Inexcusable on both counts. At this point, I think the Bills are at a disadvantage with their QB situation as well as with their recent lack of ability to score. TD chooses: New York Jets

Detroit @ Indianapolis
It seems oddly appropriate that the NFL will have its first 0-16 team a season after its first 16-0 team. TD chooses: Indianapolis Colts

Green Bay @ Jacksonville
A disappointing team v. a disappointing team. Bleh. The Pack all but eliminated from the playoffs. Jacksonville entirely eliminated. Remember, I said that I would not choose the Jags again this season. I stay true to this promise. TD chooses: Green Bay Packers

San Francisco @ Miami
Miami could win the AFC East. Does that boggle anyone else? Like AFC East Champions, win. They best not underestimate the 49ers. Singletary has 'em playing. But there's one major issue; teams with homes on the West Coast suck when they go East. For that reason and because I think Miami actually wants this, TD chooses: Miami Dolphins

Tampa Bay @ Atlanta
A week after a key showdown with Carolina, Tampa has to visit a much better than expected Atlanta to see if they can flog them again this year (they won they're first matchup 24-9). But don't underestimate these not-so-dirty birds. Especially at home. Not to mention the fact that there's some question as to who will be the QB for Tampa this weekend. TD chooses: Atlanta Falcons

Washington @ Cincinnati
Yes, Washington has fallen from grace. Another late season tank-job. But they're playing the Bagels. My advice to Carson Plamer. Just come back next year. Nothing to be gained by returning during this one. TD chooses: Washington Redskins

Minnesota @ Arizona
An interesting game. The Vikings must continue to fight for the NFC North Championship. The Cardinals must improve their playoff seeding. Gus ain't feeling hot, which means a dose of Tarvaris. Yick. For that reason, TD chooses: Arizona Cardinals

Denver @ Carolina
Another intriguing matchup. The Broncos must win another game to ensure their division championship. Meanwhile, the Panthers must still fend off defeat in order to take home their division championship. If it were in Denver, I might think twice about Carolina. As it stands, TD chooses: Carolina Panthers

New York Football Giants @ Dallas
You might think that this should the the 'Pick of the Week' game. But, I think there's one better. What I would like to see in this game is a Jint blowout of this dysfunctional Dallas team. I don't think that will be the outcome, however, because Romo usually puts up good numbers against the Jints. In addition, Brandon Jacobs is out again. He needs to get healthy. And why isn't this the game of the week? The G-men already won the division. TD chooses: New York Football Giants

Cleveland @ Philadelphia
Blech. Okay, so last week's Monday Night game. A good one, for a change. This one? Not so much. Cleveland struggles to remain a team in the NFL. Philly has a resurgence, but is it too late in the game for the Iggles? Not yet. If the G-men defeat the Cowschmucks and the Iggles pull out the likely win, then the Iggles are in second and vying for the Wild Card. Though I root for Cleveland, TD chooses: Philadelphia Eagles

Pick of the Week
Pittsburgh @ Baltimore
Defense v. Defense. Division rivals. Pittsburgh seeking another division championship. Baltimore attempting to catch them and secure a championship for themselves. Pittsburgh has the better record. But it's in Baltimore. I expect it to be a great game. Unless Pittsburgh severely rattles Flacco, which is possible. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers

TD's Official Thursday Night NFL Pick - New Orleans @ Chicago

In fact I have two items to discuss this evening.

The first:
New Orleans @ Chicago
I swear by everything that I hold dear that I have not yet glimpsed the score, though it was understandably difficult. In fact, I can't even tell you their records off the top of my head, though I know both to be somewhere around .500. For me, it's not about the records. Or the teams. I think it's about the weather. And if it's anything like Chicago should be in December, Chicago's gonna run it down their throats. TD chooses: Chicago Bears

The second:
This is non-football related. I received a few comments about the story I composed yesterday. Whether it was real or fictional. It was fictional. It was followed by a question: then, how do I know all of what you've written is not fictional? I suggested that the commenter would have to guess. But, as I've considered the comment throughout the day, I've realized that it's disconcerting to switch the blog in midstream. I mean, I wonder how many of you actually think that I, who value human life, would actually be pleased if someone were to die. And horribly, at that. I have therefore decided to add a disclaimer to those stories that are, in fact, stories. So you'll know...

Now, I'm off to eat a wonderful dinner that Joseph has cooked. And to watch the tail end of the game, if it is, in fact, still on.

TD's Official NFL Picks - Week 14

I've decided to approach these picks a bit more differently this week. First, there will be no pick of the week. Why? Because when I started looking at the matchups, I realized that there's certainly not just one this week. Bucs / Panthers. Cowboys / Steelers. Eagles / Giants. Nope, couldn't pick one. So, I said to myself, self you should separate out the good and the bad. This isn't to say that games in the bad category don't have some kind of importance for one of the teams playing in them. They're just not games that I can imagine many - other than fans and fantasy football locos - would want to watch.

Second, I am going to try to keep the comment to one sentence. A challenge, to be certain, since I want to try to keep you entertained while at the same time saying something remotely interesting about each game. Here goes...

The Bad
Cleveland @ Tennessee
The final nail has been hammered into Romeo's coffin; this will just be a bunch of Titans dancing on his grave. TD chooses: Tennessee Titans

Houston @ Green Bay
Lambeau field is an impressive ally in December, and I think the Packers are just plain better. TD chooses: Green Bay Packers

Jacksonville @ Chicago
I specifically stated that I would not vote for Jacksonville again this year - it's a good thing they've already played the Lions - and I will keep that promise. TD chooses: Chicago Bears

Cincinnati @ Indianapolis
I am concerned for Indy in this one, but I think Peyton and crew know they have too much riding on these last three games against the Bagels, Lie Downs, and Jaguettes. TD chooses: Indianapolis Colts

Minnesota @ Detroit
If I hadn't seen the Lie Downs play on Turkey Day, I might choose them to upset the Vikes; the problem is that I did. TD chooses: Minnesota Vikings

New England @ Seattle
I wanted so badly to choose the Seachickens as an upset, but then I found out that Matt Hasselbeck and Walter Jones are doubtful. TD chooses: New England Patriots

New York Jets @ San Francisco
Of all the 'bad' games I chose, I think this could be one of the most competitive given San Fran's new life and the Jets' need to keep winning to stay atop the AFC East. TD chooses: San Francisico 49ers

Kansas City @ Denver
The Chiefs won their game against Denver earlier in the year; the Broncos aren't going to let that happen again. TD chooses: Denver Broncos

St. Louis @ Arizona
I think the Rams can upset them, but I think the Cardinals want to know what a conference championship feels like - if you can call winning the NFC West a championship. TD chooses: Arizona Cardinals

The Good
Atlanta @ New Orleans
New Orleans must win to stay alive and Brees will throw at Atlanta as much as they can handle; but will it be more than that even? TD chooses: New Orleans Saints

Philadelphia @ New York Football Giants
A friend asked me if I will ever choose the team that is better than the Giants, and I said to him 'Yes, if I thought there were any.' TD chooses: New York Football Giants

Miami @ Buffalo
Remember what I said about Lambeau; multiply that by ten and you have Buffalo. TD chooses: Buffalo Bills

Dallas @ Pittsburgh
If I were to choose a pick of the week, I think this would have been it; these two are just gonna hammer one another, and I'm hoping the Steel Curtain closes on the Cowbirds. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers

Washington @ Baltimore
The most intriguing matchup, I think this one will require good QB play; who's QB will play better? TD chooses: Washington Redskins

Tampa Bay @ Carolina
Garcia seems to own the Panthers as a QB for Tampa; I think this streak will continue on a very good Monday Night Footbal game - finally. TD chooses: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

TD's Much Abbreviated Thursday Night NFL Pick - Oakland @ San Diego

Oakland @ San Diego
A classic rivalry, that for now, lingers in obscure mediocrity. San Diego has had a tailspin season. How many teams does it take to prove that Norv Turner ain't the one? And Oakland - well, I've said it before - Oakland needs to rid itself of Big Al. But that doesn't address tonight's game. After last week, I was certain that San Diego is just another Jacksonville. Every time I choose them, they lose. But this is a primetime game against Oakland. And players like LT enjoy that spotlight. And it's in San Diego too. Okay, one last time. But if they don't win this one, I don't care if the Bolts are playing the Lions; I won't pick 'em. TD chooses: San Diego Chargers

TD's Official NFL Picks - Week 13

Five weeks remain. In the past few, we've seen the resurgence of the likes of Indy and Dallas. Not to mention Cassel's back to back 400+ games. We see that Arizona may play spoiler, if any role in the playoffs, since they can't seem to win against good teams. The NFC Norse division keeps battling - well, all except for the Lie Downs. Is there any question that the NFC East is the best division in football? The only people that might question are those in the AFC East. Every team in both eastern divisions is now above .500.

Now, for the picks...

San Francisco @ Buffalo
Apart from the Cardinals, I don't think I can pick another NFC West team to win again. Unless they're playing each other. And even then, who knows? Buffalo beat the hell out of a bad KC team. And I think Trent can lead them to beat the hell out of a bad 49ers team. That's why I picked him up this week for my fantasy team. TD chooses: Buffalo Bills

Baltimore @ Cincinnati
I've heard many people say over the past few years that Cincy best beware the karma to be repaid. Methinks that karma has settled sqarely over these Bagels. The Ravens, however, are fighting for something. They're playoff hopes are alive and well. TD chooses: Baltimore Ravens

Indianapolis @ Cleveland
As stated in the preface, Indy's coming about. And that's not a team anyone wants to face on fire. Cleveland needs to play for pride at this point. And perhaps to save their coach's job. If they want to do so. TD chooses: Indianapolis Colts

Carolina @ Green Bay
Green Bay in its last outing was blown to proverbial smithereens by the pass happy Saints. But Carolina's certainly not the Saints. They are a more balanced team with less of the aerial attack. Does this mean Green Bay can keep up? Better than last week. And the Pack has just as good a shot at winning the Norse as the Vikings or Bears. Still, I think the Panthers are up for the challenge. TD chooses: Carolina Panthers

Miami @ St. Louis
I was rooting for the Dolphins against New England. I and everyone else who isn't a Pats fan. I was hopeful as they traded point leads. But Miami just wasn't strong enough to overcome Cassel's arm. Miami's a good team. They're just not there yet. As for St. Louis, see the 49ers @ Buffalo pick above. TD chooses: Miami Dolphins

New Orleans @ Tampa Bay
The Saints come off a drubbing of the Packers. Tampa has won three in a row. New Orleans has a scary passing attack, but their defense is terrible. Tampa has a satisfactory defensive attack and a shut down D. New Orleans won earlier this year 24-20. It really is a toss up. And in a difficult NFC both are fighting for the playoffs. TD chooses: New Orleans Saints

New York Football Giants @ Washington
First game of the year, Giants win 16-7. Not a convincing win, to be sure. But a win nonetheless. Washington has grown since then. An effective Jason Campbell. Portis healthy. Taylor who hasn't seemed to have lost a step at DE. But the Jints have grown too. They've proven that they can win without Jacobs. Without Plax. They're a deep and dangerous team. I think it'll be another dogfight, but TD chooses: New York Football Giants

Atlanta @ San Diego
If the football happened to bounce in a different direction, San Diego could easily be 8-4 right now and in control of the AFC West. As it is, they still have the ability to win the West at 4-7, which doesn't say much for the West. But they keep losing to scrappy teams that can put it together at the last minute. Atlanta's just as capable as Carolina, Indy, and Pittsburgh. Not to mention the fact that Turner makes a big return to the field where he backed up LT. This should be a good game. TD chooses: San Diego Chargers

Denver @ New York Jets
When people start talking about a dream Super Bowl - at least this year - they think the Manning Bowl or Jints-Jets. I've never seen the dream Super Bowl happen, to be honest. So, eh. As for this game, Denver is holding on for dear life to that first position in the AFC West. But they lost to Oakland. Oakland? Really? The Jets, meanwhile, have put together a five game winning streak that looks like it could become six. As long as they show up to play. TD chooses: New York Jets

Kansas City @ Oakland
Ugh. I mean, I know the teams have to play the games. The draft's at stake. And there's pride too. But these two? Ugh. Don't get me wrong. They're showing signs of life. Thigpen looks pretty good, but he's young. And Oakland beat Denver last week rather handily. It's better to see that than the mess that is Detroit. In this toss up TD chooses: Oakland Raiders

Chicago @ Minnesota
This could be the game of the week, except it isn't. Both teams at 6-5. Only one team from the Norse division will be going to the playoffs this year. Which of these will it be? Or could it be the Pack? Right, the game. The Bears and Vikes played a homerun derby tennis match earlier in the year. Back and forth, they kept scoring. 48-41. Not a typical score for these two teams that supposedly have strong defenses. This time around, I think there will be a lower score, and we'll see more from Peterson and Forte. Who wins the matchup between these two RBs? Tough call. TD chooses: Chicago Bears

Jacksonville @ Houston
Another klunker on Monday Night. Both 4-7. Both dead in the water in a division that includes Indy and Tennessee. And since they're rather evenly matched, I must make this one personal. Every time I've chosen Jacksonville this year - because I thought them better than their record - I've lost. Well, maybe not every time. I've picked Jacksonville seven times. They've lost four. Against the likes of the Ohio teams. Really? TD chooses: Houston Texans

PICK OF THE WEEK
New England @ Pittsburgh
Both are fighting for their playoff lives. New England can't afford to fall back much further in the wild card race. And Pittsburgh can't afford to leave this weekend behind tied for first in the AFC North. And yet, one team will fall - no I'm not accounting for a tie. All signs point to the Pats being the faller. Cassel hasn't faced the likes of the Pittsburgh D; I don't think he'll be having another 400+ yard day. And Pittsburgh just has a more balanced team. TD chooses: Pittsburgh Steelers

TD's Official Thanksgiving Picks - Week 13

I shan't bore you with more than that which is due on the morrow, namely three games of which two involve the usual Thanksgiving subjects.

Tennessee @ Detroit
I'd like to think the Lie Downs have a chance against the visiting Titans. But after a convincing loss to the J-E-T-S I don't think Mr. Fisher will allow said Titans to play listlessly. TD therefore chooses: Tennessee Titans

Seattle @ Dallas
As all of you know, I have two favorite teams. The Jints and whoever plays the Cowcrooks. That means Seattle is my second favorite team this week. And, God I hope my pick is wrong. TD chooses: Dallas Cowboys

Arizona @ Philadelphia
A team coming off a tough loss against a team coming off a tough loss. But Philly is a more reeling team than the team they will meet at the Vet. Okay, so not the Vet. What the hell's up with Donovan anyway? Anyway, can the Cards beat a second NFC East team this season? In the city of brotherly love? I think so. But it'll be close. TD chooses: Arizona Cardinals