Mile High Musings

I say a lot, but I never really say anything. So, that said, let's chat.

-- I went to Copper Mountain Resort today and it was awesome. The mountains are exciting. I may or may not have a bruised body in the morning, but who cares? If one is presented with the opportunity to come kick it like tae bo in the Rocky Mountains, one should do it.

-- Blizzards are more annoying than your 6-year-old cousin who wants to play you in Madden every 10 minutes at Thanksgiving...not that that has ever happened to me.

-- I like lime-flavored tortilla chips. They are delicious.

-- I'm bored with the NFL. Is there any way we can change the format so the NFC just doesn't count? The best part of this little blurb is that because I said the previous sentence, an NFC team will probably win the Super Bowl. That's just how it goes.

-- Turf toe? Out for the season? Really? Only in the SEC, where tough guys go for manicures and facials. http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2709812

-- Next up on UConn's softer-than-a-too-ripe-banana schedule? Grandma State. This time around? Coppin State. Wow! The Huskies are 11-0 and No. 9 in the country?!?!?! We'll see how they do when they play teams that don't recruit small children and elderly folks who enjoy throwing feces. http://scores.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263610041

-- Whatever happened to Tyson Wheeler, Antonio Reynolds-Dean and Luther Clay?http://scores.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263610195

-- The Steelers are out of the playoffs. What a buzzkill after winning the Super Bowl. It's like winning the first World Series in 86 years then getting swept by the worst World Series Champ in the history of baseball the next season. Oh wait, the second-worst World Series Champ in the history of baseball. Who is the worst? Did ya watch the Major League Baseball playoffs this year?

-- Ultimately, I blame the entire season on Bill Cowher and the rigidity of the NFL coach's mindset. Why can't you start Charlie Batch? Oh, because Ben Roethlisberger is the "Franchise QB." But when the franchise quarterback puts his head through a windshield on a dumbass joy ride through downtown Pittsburgh, throws 55 interceptions a game (none of which ever seemed to be acceptable picks), had an emergency appendectomy in the middle of the season and rarely appeared comfortable in most games, you might want to start considering your alternatives. Plus, Charlie Batch was cool, calm and collected in his appearances, and no one ever said that when Roethlisberger was completely healthy he would have to battle Batch for the job.

Oh well, I'm just glad I didn't have to spend the season as a Steelers fan -- rough times were had by all. It was unfortunate in a city that loves its football and supports its team through thick and thin. You would think Bill Cowher would respect that loyalty and give the fans a winner instead of a stubborn season plagued by mediocrity.

-- P.S. Willie Parker is a stud, but you didn't need me to tell you that, did you?

-- Barry Zito belongs in the National League.

-- If the Yankees trade Randy Johnson, and that's a big "if," who will deliver a sweet 15-15 record with a 5.50 ERA? What will the Yankee fans do?!?!

-- In response to the sarcasm stated in the previous blurb -- Carl Pavano? Jaret Wright? The options are there -- who will deliver?

-- If I had a vote for the Baseball Hall of Fame...pause for laughter...I would probably go with Harold Baines, Jay Buhner, Scott Brosius, definitely Dante Bichette, Wally Joyner of course and last, but certainly not least, Bret Saberhagen.

(But really -- Tony Gwynn, Jim Rice, Bert Blyleven, Andre Dawson, Goose Gossage, Cal Ripken, Jr. and Lee Smith)


I guess that's it for today. I'm stuck in a mountain cottage with a blizzard fast approaching and only five days of freedom left. Wish me luck.

Blizzard of '06: Day Two

One would think Denver would be prepared for 25-35 inches of snow, yet there has been zero plowing in our driveway and complex, so I've been trapped here. But it worked out, I can watch more basketball with less guilt. No more, "Go outside and get some exercise" babbling from the elders in this brothel (just kidding).

-- Oklahoma State 95, Pitt 89, in double overtime. I'll bet you a Thomas Jefferson two-dollar bill that you will hear people say, "They didn't hit their free throws" or "They didn't close down Boggan," but this game could've gone either way. The Panthers had chances to pull away and chances to clinch a win, but credit OK State, it battled back and went stride for stride.

Is Pitt still good? Yes, it is still a very good team. But it needs to start winning games that matter soon, or I'll be off the bandwagon. I've marked off Dayton as a tough game for Pitt. And don't look now, but the Big East schedule lurks nearer and nearer with each passing day.

-- Somewhere, former Celtic great Vitaly Potapenko is smiling. How did he convince his family that going to Wright State was the right choice? American basketball players can't even convince their families that Wright State is the right choice. But I guess when your other option is service in the Soviet army, basketball anywhere within the United States is a better option. Can you believe the Ukraine Train made 36-million dollars from the NBA as of this year? And he even left early from Wright State! Make sure you also check out the hilarious "Hall of Fame Probability" stat on his basketball-reference page:

http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/p/potapvi01.html

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263552750

-- It looks like the Pittsburgh Penguins might move after all. Who could come up with a more terrible idea than the NHL letting Pittsburgh lose its team? That's like letting Toys 'R' Us move out of the Neverland Ranch. What, too soon?

-- Duke finally won a meaningful game. I take back everything I said last night...Not. (Tell me you've seen Borat.)

-- Remember when Utah was good at basketball? Keith Van Horn? Andre Miller? Rick Majerus?

http://sports-att.espn.go.com/ncb/boxscore?gameId=263550077

-- Wasn't Virginia ranked at some point this season? Where is Mayaguez, Puerto Rico?

http://sports-att.espn.go.com/ncb/boxscore?gameId=263552503

-- The SEC is AWESOME!

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263550238

-- Chalk one up for Christmas AND the Big East.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263550087

-- Remember when URI beat Murray State in the first round of the 1998 NCAA tournament en route to an Elite Eight appearance and a choke-job that will forever live in infamy? No? Well still, look at Murray State now. I bet Mark Gottfried is glad he's at Alabama, now he doesn't even have to work to be overrated!

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263550093

-- Go ahead, ESPN, keep trying to convince us that Marquette's loss to North Dakota State is a quality one. I can only assume Southwest State (Minnesota) is in the southwestern part of the state? Right next to the gigantic sign that says, "IF YOU LOSE TO NORTH DAKOTA STATE, YOU ARE TERRIBLE."

http://sports-att.espn.go.com/ncb/boxscore?gameId=263552449

-- What a perfect matchup for the Christmas season! God is the real winner in this one, folks.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263552628

-- Good to see former Pitt assistant Barry Rohrssen is doing well at Manhattan. Look at St. Francis, NY's record.

http://scores.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263552597

-- Speaking of Manhattan, how is Bobby Gonzalez doing at Seton Hall?

http://scores.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=263552550

No, that's not a quality loss. The only quality losses against ACC teams are against UNC, Duke, Georgia Tech and maybe Florida State on a good night. Yes, I'm saying Boston College, Maryland, Clemson and Virginia are not good -- deal with it.


So that wraps up a late night update from your boy in the Mile High City. Hope you enjoyed it. I know I did. And next time you see Vitaly Potapenko, ask him what he's done with the six-million dollars he made in 2005. Tell 'em Jeff sent ya.

Quick Hits from the High Post

When I made the mistake of venturing in the snow mounting from the Blizzard of '06, my pants soaked faster than a 6-year-old kid's when they first meet Santa at the mall. And that's fast. But the snow reached thigh-level, making my trip to buy soda seem less and less worth it with each step. Needless to say, I got the soda -- and drank it, too. And might I say, it was delicious.

Anyway, there are a few things I wanted to talk about, and then I have some really important engagements with late-night TV and potentially some Madden.

-- The Nuggets made out like bandits in acquiring Allen Iverson. Here is the deal:

'6ers get:
Andre Miller
Joe Smith
Two first-round draft picks

Nuggs get:
Allen Iverson
Ivan McFarlin

Were you laughing when you read Joe Smith's name, too? I had completely forgotten he was in the league, AND I LIVE IN DENVER! Anyway, I think the Nuggets immediately become contenders with Iverson in the lineup, as if anyone needed to tell you that. And with 'Melo out from the "brawl" -- during which 'Melo slapped, and I mean bitch-slapped, Mardy Collins then ran away from this stick figure apparently named Jared Jeffries -- Iverson will provide scoring and leadership.

When 'Melo comes back, watch out. If, and this is a big, huge, gigantic "if," the Nuggets can stay healthy, they will be tough to beat down the stretch.

When I think Ivan McFarlin, I think Oklahoma State, and what better segue into the big matchup in college hoops tomorrow (Thursday) night is there?

(There might be one, but for the sake of the argument, there isn't one right now.)

-- No. 7 Pitt takes on No. 15 Oklahoma State (remember, only weird people use ESPN/USA Today rankings -- these are AP) at 7:30 p.m. EST on ESPN2. The Panthers will have a good size advantage, but the Cowboys are less than an hour from home, and apparently that makes all the difference in how Pitt plays.

This is another huge test for the Panthers -- coming off a tough road loss, playing another tough team on the road, etc. But the tip time suggests Pitt might actually be ready to play. Keep an eye on Mario Boggan for OK State. The Cowboys don't get too much press, but they are a good squad, and Boggan is a big reason for that -- pun intended. Boggan and JamesOn Curry are the players to watch when OK State has the pill. But I think the size of Pitt's frontcourt, mixed in with the depth of the Panthers, will help Pitt win.

-- Speaking of rankings, is Duke really ranked No. 6 in both polls? With its marquee win coming against...Georgetown? Really? That's the No. 6 team in the country? I mean sure, beating Holy Cross by 12 in Durham or UNC-Greensboro by 27 in Durham probably propelled them to that ranking, but let's be serious -- No. 6? Can anyone tell me a single player in that lineup outside of McRoberts that would start for any of the other top-10 teams (excluding Wichita State)? Didn't think so.

Heckler from the crowd: DeMarcus Nelson, you idiot!

Me: DeMarcus Nelson would start for Florida, Ohio State, North Carolina, UCLA or Pitt? Yeah, and Ivan McFarlin is the reason the Nuggets will win the NBA championship. What is this, the Dick Vitale Top 25?

-- Gonzaga-Duke is also on tomorrow (Thursday) night at 9 p.m. EST. You know what game should be preceding that in Madison Square Garden as part of the Aeropastle Classic? Pitt-South Carolina. Instead, the Panthers are in Oklahoma City because the Gamecocks wimped out. Go figure.

-- The Celtics have won five of six, and Al Jefferson looks great. Tony Allen -- speaking of Oklahoma State -- is another guy who has been playing very well of late. The Celts have a shot at winning the Atlantic Division with a young lineup, as long as Jefferson and Ryan Gomes stay healthy to keep the inside-outside balance strong. I mean, winning the Atlantic Division would be like beating your 93-year-old grandpa at ping-pong, but who's counting? You'd still have a "W" under your belt, right? Right.


-- That's it for today. I'll probably comment on the Pitt-OK State game after its completion, so I'll talk to you guys soon. If I don't, happy holidays from your favorite secular blogger.

Pitt-Wisconsin

Props to Wisconsin for playing their best possible game against the No. 2-ranked Pitt. The Panthers didn't play all that badly, Wisconsin just took advantage of the home crowd and shot the lights out. The Badgers look legit, and Alando Tucker might be the best wing player in the nation.

I've now seen Corey Brewer, Jarrius Jackson, JamesOn Curry, Daequan Cook, Mustafa Shakur and Wayne Ellington play, and Tucker is the best. He is the strongest of all of them, and he establishes himself inside, outside and in transition.

Things that went wrong for the Panthers? Well, the man-to-man defense is in trouble. When Pitt basketball is forced into zone defense, there is something wrong. Wisconsin presented problems in matchups for Pitt, stretching Gray and Kendall away from the basket with (randomly on-fire) Brian Butch while Tucker was too big for any of Pitt's wing players and too quick for Sam Young.

In the meantime, I think Pitt can rebound. It needs to keep working on working out the kinks of the other eight scorers. Ronald Ramon showed absolutely no fear in creating and taking his shots. I liked the tenacity of Antonio Graves and Mike Cook as well, and Levance Fields worked hard at the end of the game trying to get Pitt back into it.

Still, the Panthers aren't going to have it any easier on the 21st, when they travel to Oklahoma City to play Oklahoma State. Pitt fans, don't fret, the Panthers are still the best team in the Big East and they will be OK faster than you can say Carl Krauser plays basketball in Germany.

Peace.

Welcome Back

Hello everyone, welcome back to a much-anticipated installment of the Hoops Diaries. It's been a while -- Thanksgiving break was about three weeks ago -- but to be completely honest, not a whole lot has changed. UCLA, Pitt and UNC are still the teams to beat in college hoops, with a glop of tantalizing teams like Ohio State, Kansas, Florida and LSU right behind them. Then we have the teams we want to like, but the mainstream mindset that they are "mid-majors" keeps up thinking, "Hmm, maybe it's still too early..." Think Gonzaga, Butler and Wichita State. I'd be willing to bet that Gonzaga or Wichita State could give any of the teams I mentioned above a run for their money...oh, wait, Gonzaga beat UNC and Wichita State beat LSU in Baton Rouge.

Anyway, tomorrow (today) is a huge day for college basketball:

#2 Pitt is at #7 Wisconsin (more on that later) at noon on ESPN
#4 Ohio State is at surprisingly tough Cincinnati at 3:45 on CBS
#16 Gonzaga is at Georgia at 5 on ESPN2
Purdue is at #18 Butler at 1
Creighton is at Fresno State at 10
Indiana State at Missouri State is at 8:05
Kentucky-Louisville is on at 1:30 on CBS
Texas Tech is at Arkansas at 2 on ESPN

- Pitt-Wisconsin is the marquee matchup on this list, for obvious reasons. Look for a few things: 1) Aaron Gray is supposedly showing flu-like symptoms and has a fever -- if he isn't capable of playing 25-33 minutes, Pitt might be in trouble; 2) Pitt on the road, with a tip-off at 11 a.m. local time can only spell disaster; 3) Who is going to guard Alando Tucker?

Anyway, this is going to be fun -- Pitt can really establish itself and shut the critics up with a win, or they can prove the experts correct and slide down the rankings. Wisconsin is physical, talented and extremely tough at home, so Pitt winning this game would be monumental. I don't want to make predictions because I don't know how Gray is feeling, so I will stay out. In the meantime, check out ESPN.com for a nice feature on Levon Kendall.

- Cincinnati is turning out to be a tough program. Mick Cronin is a very capable coach who works hard on his kids to get the best out of them. A win over Ohio State would thrust Cincy into the Big East schedule with boat loads of confidence, and a W might also help the ol' resume if the Bearcats come knocking on the tournament's door in March.

- Georgia is widely considered a tough high-major team with the ability to ruffle some feathers among the SEC elite. The Bulldogs have a chance to make their voices heard when they host Gonzaga in the Battle of the Bulldogs. Keep an eye on this game if you can, it could show a lot about both teams. That is, if you didn't see Gonzaga handle UNC.

- Purdue at Butler will be a great showdown. Purdue is a team that could break into the top five or so of the Big Ten and make a strong case for a tournament bid. The Boilermakers are the Big Ten's version of Georgia and Cincinnati -- a team with a coach that gets the best out of his players and has his guys ready to compete. This is another good test of Butler, as well, as it gives us another chance to see them against primetime opponents.

- Creighton at Fresno State could be a preview of a 7-10, 8-9 first round game in March. Both teams are talented and hungry to make noise out of "mid-major" conferences. These guys are physical and well-coached, and that means this game will be one to watch.

- Indiana State at Missouri State is a key game in the MVC. Missouri State might have a shot to get into the tournament after it was snubbed last March. Winning big conference games like this one will help them get there. Of course, beating Wisconsin and losing to Oklahoma State by three points also helps. Keep an eye on their stud, Blake Ahearn, who has been around for a while and is an established threat in the MVC. Indiana State just beat Butler, but they also lost to Middle Tennessee State and Ball State, so they can go either way. Nonetheless, this will be a sweet MVC showdown.

- Kentucky-Louisville should be fun. It's a rivalry game, so regardless of Louisville being one of the most overrated, and in my opinion, worst teams in the Big East, it should be a decent game on CBS. Kentucky is a perennial 9 seed at this point, so I guess watching the Wildcats isn't so bad.

- Texas Tech-Arkansas has a nice ring to it. The Razorbacks are a team, much like Georgia, with the ability and talent to make some noise in the SEC. This is a chance for them to get a good win against a tough opponent. The Red Raiders are always fun to watch with Bobby Knight on the sideline, and they have a special talent in Jarrius Jackson, who I still can't see enough.

All in all, it's going to be a great day for basketball. I see no reason why I will be peeled from the TV at any point tomorrow (today). Anyway, talk to you guys soon.

Preseason Tournaments Mean Preseason Babbling

-- I'm not sold on Gonzaga despite its 82-74 upset of North Carolina last night. Derek Raivio reminded me of me in high school -- made terrible decisions, took awful shots and almost cost his team the game on several occasions. Still, it was a showing of how to beat North Carolina and gave Gonzaga a big win to start the post-Adam Morrison era.

-- Props to Geoff Dutelle, who mentioned the possibility of Kansas beating Florida and Pitt becoming No. 1 in the nation as a result of UNC and Florida losing. I'll have to see it before I believe it -- Florida is too dominant and the media's darling. UNC might stay ahead of Pitt for the same reason that Florida will be in top 5 regardless of record -- everybody at ESPN loves them.

-- Georgia Tech looked great all week until last night's loss to UCLA. But I don't think the Yellow Jackets should be disappointed with their performance -- their youth and talent really showed this week. UCLA is great on D and one of my favorites for a(nother) big tournament run.

-- Providence beat Boston College last night, prompting several thoughts in my head. Aside from the immediate "Holy crap, Providence is great!" moment, I also realized that Boston College stinks. Every year we have this discussion and every year I'm right -- the Eagles are always overrated and you can always count on them to underachieve.

-- A win against a ranked opponent usually gets you in or close to the top 25 right? Not when your Providence and have a 2-1 record. The only loss? To Brown. Yep, the Brown Bears of the mid-level mediocre variety in the Ivy League.

-- Can't wait for Florida-Kansas Friday night. Tip is set for 11 p.m. ET -- 9 p.m. where I am in the mountains. Should be a good one. Can't really give you a prediction, but I'm leaning heavily toward Florida.

Have a good Thanksgiving everybody.

Pitt Announces 06-07 Recruiting Class

http://pittsburghpanthers.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/111606aaa.html

-- Pitt head coach Jamie Dixon clearly wanted to add size to replace departing post players Aaron Gray, Levon Kendall and Doyle Hudson. DaJuan Blair is the marquee player in the class, possibly someone Pitt will need to contribute right away. The biggest void will be left in rebounding. Pitt can replace the offense of Gray and defense of Kendall, but the combined rebounding force will be sorely missed. Pitt's looking at Ty Biggs and Sam Young as its returning frontcourt players, so Blair might have to come in and back them up as soon as he gets here.

-- Two others add to Blair's presence in the post -- Cassin Diggs, a juco transfer, and Gary McGhee. Don't be fooled by the story above -- just because McGhee was contacted by Florida doesn't necessarily mean he was at the top of the Gators' list.

Diggs is 6-10, 270. That is not a small guy. He might be more of a Hudson-style of center; in other words, he's a project with only two years of eligibility. Who knows, maybe he'll surprise me.

McGhee is 6-10, 245. These are big dudes. They need one of them to make an impact with Blair, otherwise, the depth in the frontcourt, like I mentioned above, will be lacking.

-- If frontcourt depth becomes a problem next year, look for the guardplay to increase in importance next off-season. Every guard on the team, except for Antonio Graves, returns next year. And Dixon is hoping that Gilbert Brown will be ready to help next year. At 6-6, Brown could be a quality fifth option off the bench after Fields, Ramon, Cook and Benjamin.

6-7 wing forward Darnell Dodson will be a welcomed addition to the Panthers. With such good length and size for a wing player, Dodson adds an interesting aspect to Pitt, both offensively and defensively. Time will tell if he is ready right away (My guess is that he won't be). He is a good shooter and keeps defenders guessing.

6-4 Bradley Wanamaker from Philly also joins the class. He has a nice touch from the outside and might be surprisingly good for Pitt down the line. He played well at his summer camps and earned some higher recognition after being put in the "unknown" category prior to the camps.

-- I don't think Dodson and Wanamaker will be huge impact players their freshman year, but that's OK, because Fields, Ramon, Cook, Benjamin and Brown will all be back next year to handle most of the duty. Wanamaker and Dodson can learn and get a season under their belts before the mass exodus leaves Pitt with Fields, Brown, Wanamaker and Dodson (and maybe some stud freshmen guards) in 2008-2009.

-- Make sure to listen to my play-by-play broadcast tonight (Friday) at 5 p.m. of the Pitt-Northeastern game. Catch it streaming at www.wpts.org/live. I might actually get to put a digital file of it on here sometime after the game -- we'll see. But listen tonight, starting with the pregame show at 4:30, and then at 4:55 with my man Matt Carulli and me. It'll be the best college radio sports broadcast ever. Take it easy.

College Ball is Here

Well, the first results are in, and the early-going exposed Kansas and North Carolina as, at the least, still far from the well-oiled machines they will be in January.

http://www.sportsline.com/collegebasketball/gamecenter/recap/NCAAB_20061115_ORAL@KS
-- Oral Roberts over Kansas, 78-71? Don't give me the "Parity, parity, parity!" argument. This is a classic example of an overrated team underestimating its opponent. It's not parity -- it's a parody of the No. 3 ranking. It's a joke. And frankly, that should drop the Jayhawks into the double-digit rankings until they win a game that matters. Sure, they're talented. So is every team in the NFL, but it takes certain teams with the ability to play together that separates them. Talent gets rankings, athleticism wins a few games but teamwork takes titles.

http://www.sportsline.com/collegebasketball/gamecenter/recap/NCAAB_20061115_WINTHR@NC
-- UNC is legit. This was a case of a strong, lesser-conference team putting in a tough, gritty performance. UNC will be fine. This was UNC's chance to incorporate the youngsters and see how they fit. They will keep rolling.

-- I think Kansas' loss should propel Pitt to No. 3 in the rankings in both polls.

-- Read my last post for the previews of this weekend's trio of games for Pitt. Make sure you listen to me at www.wpts.org/live if you aren't in the crowd at the games. I'll be doing the Northeastern-Pitt game.

Take it easy, folks.

Pitt Basketball Preview (Delaware State, Northeastern, UMass and Oakland (Mich.)

OK, Pitt has four games this week -- all at home -- against Delaware State (tonight at 7:30), Northeastern (Friday at 5), UMass (Saturday at 5) and Oakland (Mich.) (Sunday at 5). These games can possibly deceive us. At least Delaware State and UMass might.

Let's get right to it. I'll let you know what to look for in each game and how the Panthers can beat that particular opponent.

Delaware State is on the rise out of the MEAC, after getting into the NCAA tourney two seasons ago and making the second round of the NIT last year.

Jahsha Bluntt is a stud on the wing for the Hornets. He was the best player in the MEAC last year, and at 6-6, will probably be guarded by Mike Cook, Antonio Graves, Sam Young and Keith Benjamin. He's a sharpshooter and doesn't mind getting physical underneath if he has to.

At the point, Delaware State should be sturdy with 6-0 senior Darrin Shine. He doesn't turn the ball over and has a knack for finding his scorers. He will be a tough in-between cover for Levance Fields and Ronald Ramon.

6-9 center Aaron Fleetwood will be tough underneath for Aaron Gray. He's not going to drop 20 points on you. Hell, he won't drop 10. But he will challenge Gray's shots, block a few and clog the paint on driving Panthers. If he stays out of foul trouble, he might be able to minimize Gray's impact.

Don't count the Hornets as terrible. They are a formidable group of scrappy players. They have a slick scorer, a strong point, athletic big man and a couple of solid, smaller forwards. Still, the size and speed of Pitt will be too much. Pitt by 20.

Northeastern is missing its surprisingly successful coach Ron Everhart, who is now at Duquesne (how's that going, coach?). They are also without Jose Juan Barea and Shawn James, who helped the Huskies ride into fourth place in the Colonial Athletic Association.

Now the Huskies will rely on 6-9, 220 forward Bennet Davis. Davis brings tenacity and defense, but like Fleetwood from Delaware State, he lacks some major offensive skills. And that will be problematic.

6-3 guard Bobby Kelly will be relied on from the guard position. His shooting is lights out, but he can't create his own shot. Still, he plays hard and looks ready to take over the reigns in the wake of Barea's departure.

Northeastern doesn't have the horses to run with Pitt. Inside, Pitt will dominate the glass and score plenty of points in the paint. Outside, the pressure defense will be too much for the mediocre guardplay of Kelly and Adrian Martinez. Sure, they're seniors, but those two can't handle the wave of talent at both guard positions for the Panthers. Pitt by 30.

UMass comes in ready to turn back the clocks to the 90s. The Minutemen are stacked underneath with Rashaun Freeman, Stephane Lasme and Gary Forbes. Coach Travis Ford, the guy with the mustache on Kentucky at the turn of the 90s, has the Minutemen back on the map and in the hunt for the A-10 title. He'll have them ready for this game.

Freeman is the force for UMass. He can score, bang, rebound and defend with the best of 'em. He might give Gray fits. With Lasme coming in on weakside help, Gray might have a tough day. Throw in athletic Forbes and 6-6 up-and-comer Brandon Thomas, and UMass is just as deep as Pitt in the frontcourt.

The advantage for Pitt comes in the backcourt, where Tiki Mayben and Chris Lowe will do most of the ball-handling and penetration. Pitt should overwhelm them with Fields, Graves, Ramon and Benjamin. Cook will have his hands full with Forbes and Thomas on the wing, so he'll need the guards to handle things.

This is no snoozer. Pitt will probably win by 7 to 12 points, but UMass is not going to lie down and die. There will be a physical game inside and if the Panthers find Gray and Kendall in foul trouble, they'll need huge games from Ty Biggs and Sam Young.

Oakland (Mich.) is the easiest game of the four this week. They lost Calvin Wooten who was expected to be their go-to guy this year for academic reasons.

Vova Severovas and Rick Billings will be forced to carry the load for this club. That's like asking your grandma to lift 250 pounds -- it ain't happenin'. They don't have the guys to guard Gray and they don't have the guards to get the ball up the floor.

Pitt will demolish Oakland (Mich.). Call it a 35-point win for the Panthers.

Hope this is helpful for you guys going to the games. I'll be there Friday through Sunday. See you then.

West Point, East Hartford, Rhode Island and more

I'm going to do three things.

1) I'm going to rip off Bill Simmons and give you my running diary of my ride from Pittsburgh to Rhode Island with Ken.
2) Then I'll give you the rundown of the UConn-Pitt football game on Saturday and the Western Michigan-Pitt basketball game Sunday. I was lucky enough to be in attendance at both contests.
3) Then I'll rip off my favorite sportswriter, Bill Reynolds, and hit you with some bullet points to end things.

To the ripping off!
4:55 (Anywhere, Pa.) -- After purchasing delicious wintergreen Skoal to pack a sweet lip, Larry the Cable Guy nearly kills Ken and me with his Ford F-150 in the Sheetz parking lot. And yes, he ain't got no boundaries -- he don't compromise.

5:19 (Anywhere, Pa.) -- At this point, all of Pennsylvania looks the same. Although, when doesn't all of Pennsylvania look the same? I suppose that applies to every state in the country. The conversation shifts to the subtle differences between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre -- it's gonna be a long ride. Ken mentions the critical point that the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Airport is in neither Scranton nor Wilkes-Barre, but it's actually in the neutral town of Avoca, Pa. Go figure.

5:20 (Just east of No-One-Knows-This-Place-Exists, Pa.) -- Rick Santorum Sign #5. This is awkward. And mildly hilarious.

5:25 (Apparently somewhere in the Chesepeake Bay Watershed) -- Well, I'm glad to finally be in the Chesepeake Bay Watershed. I guess that means...what? Is this Cal Ripken, Jr. Country?

5:25 (Central Pa.) -- Murphy Lee's "What Tha Hook Gon' Be?" plays. Ken responds to this line -- "I'm basically comin' from nothin' to somethin'/when I say nothin' meanin' pockets full of lint and buttons" -- with a classic, "Man, that really is nothin'."

5:30 (Can't Cars Drive Any Faster, Pa.?) -- Highest point east of the Mississippi River on I-80. Stop the presses!

5:32 (Do These People Have Computers, Pa.?) -- Conversation hits the K-Fed and Britney controversy. Ken enters the No-Spin Zone and kicks it like Tae Bo -- "K-Fed's really going for the jugular!" Typing can't capture the excitement in his voice when he said that.

6:02 (Snowshoe, Pa.) -- Ken's 8-year-old girl bladder forces rest stop #6. Snowshoe, Pa.'s 2002 George Carlin Look-A-Like Contest winner holds the door into the building for me. Should I ask him for his autograph? Where the hell is Snowshoe, Pa.?

6:38 (Loganton, Pa.) -- We just called our friend Alex -- we have to know where Cracker Barrel is.

7:21 (Bloomsburg, Pa.) -- Two NASCAR, two guns rights and two Rick Santorum stickers must mean it's Cracker Barrel time. One word: Delicious. More on this later.

7:55 (Bloomsburg, Pa.) -- Thirty-four minutes and 25 pounds of chicken'n'dumplings later, we hit the road full. When God created food, his first creation was Cracker Barrel's cornbread.

8:45 (Scranton, Pa.) -- We're stopped at Uni-Mart in Scranton, Pa. No sign of Steve Carell yet, but there is a sweet economically-downtrodden city in our sights!

9:56 (Port Jervis, N.Y.) -- Bambi still hasn't found his mom. I've seen her at least 8 times...she really shouldn't sleep on the highway shoulder like that...

11:05 (the New York-Connecticut border) -- Ray Romano impression #29...yep, still funny.

11:35 (Danbury, Conn.) -- Debate ensues about whether or not the guy in the Danbury, Conn. rest stop was, in fact, an angel.

So I might as well talk about the three entries I've written for Rhode Island on Friday...

12:36 (Warwick, R.I.) -- Yep, still downtrodden!

12:42 (Warwick, R.I.) -- Chin-straps and 37 pounds of gel for everyone! Hey, they even have the sweet fades with the pencil-thin sideburns. Sweet 'burns, Enzo.

12:58 (Providence, R.I.) -- Horrible Driving Manuever #236. There's a reason Rhode Island is regularly rated the worst driving state in the country. We've only been awake in Rhode Island for three hours, and we've almost been killed twice.

Needless to say, we made it back safely. Kudos to Jonathan and Amy Greer for their hospitality.

And now, the Bill Reynolds ripping off!

-- Dave Wannstedt is in major trouble. His honeymoon with Pitt ended as UConn's quarterback D.J. Hernandez waltzed untouched into the Panther end zone on a 2-point conversion to beat Pitt, 46-45 in double overtime.

-- Or did it end when we blew the 14-point fourth-quarter lead?

-- Or did it end as Notre Dame murdered Pitt at Heinz Field in Wannstedt's debut?

-- I'll go with the last option. It's been downhill since the guy came here.

-- I can't talk about Pitt football without mentioning how sad it is to watch them. It's like watching baby sea turtles trying to crawl their way into the ocean only to be miserably pecked apart by seagulls. It's always such an arduous trek in that sand.

-- Pitt basketball is for real. They are better than any team the school has ever put out before...ever. Carl Krauser is a welcomed departure in my mind.

-- Aaron Gray might be the goofiest kid in college basketball.

-- Levance Fields has to be the most talkative player in the country. And he doesn't hold back either. It's nice sitting courtside, you hear things you normally wouldn't from the press box.

-- Nothing was sweeter than watching Jamie Dixon and his team win on an emotional high. It speaks to the team's relationship with Jamie if they want to win that badly at the Maggie Dixon Classic.

-- This team has potential to make the Final Four. Go ahead, roll your eyes. Tell me I'm too optimistic. Tell me that they don't have Carl Krauser anymore. Tell me they can't break the curse. But believe it or not, this offense is revamped and at a much higher octane than any other team in the past. They can score from anywhere, with anyone, at any time. They can run and gun or they can slow it down and bang inside. If you don't believe me, just wait. When they are cutting down the nets and heading to Atlanta for the Final Four with a regional title under their belts, we'll see who's laughing.

-- West Point, N.Y., is a beautiful Hudson Valley town. And the Hudson Valley is incredibly aesthetic.

-- I don't what's more exciting: Waiting to hear what Dave Wannstedt could possibly say after his team choked against one of the worst teams in the Big East, or wondering what delicious contraptions the media relations folks at any location will muster up. I'll go with a tie -- I love a coach on the hot seat...but I also love a delicious chicken parm.

-- George W. Bush is going to have a rough two years.

-- After everyone on ESPN jumped on the Arizona bandwagon, effectively sweeping Pitt under the contention rug, the Wildcats lost to Virginia to start their season. Sean Singletary and a new arena made all the difference for the Cavaliers. But still, Virginia? Call me in March when yet another overrated Arizona team is bounced out after one weekend.

-- I've heard enough about Florida. Let's see who wins Nov. 25 when Kansas and Florida meet in Vegas. I'll catch that tip at 9 p.m. because I'll be in that Mountain Time Zone. You guys back east can see it at 11 p.m. Watch it -- it's worth staying up.

-- I want to see Borat.

-- That's it for this guy. See you guys soon. And as always, check www.pittnews.com and www.wpts.org/live for me.

Here is my broadcasting schedule:
Mondays at 9 a.m.
Wednesday Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. Pitt women's basketball vs. California (Pa.)
Friday Nov. 17 at 5 p.m. Pitt men's basketball vs. Northeastern

Click on that WPTS-Pittsburgh link and you'll hear me.

Take it easy, folks.

NFL Week Seven Picks

As Scooby Doo would say, "Rut roh." Meaning, I can't believe it's already Week Seven of the NFL season. I haven't unpacked my jackets yet, winter, slow down. Anyway, I had a rough week picking margins of victory, but what else is new? I'm sitting pretty in picking winners, handling a sweet 52-19 record so far. My margins of victory record, however, is a lowly 34-37. Call me crazy, but I do better picking the winners.

To the games...

JACKSONVILLE at Houston -- Nothing beats starting off the picks with an easy one. Jacksonville is more physical than two college kids on a dance floor. And that's pretty physical. Houston can't handle that kind of power and physicality. Plus, as is the case every week, I want to compare Byron Leftwich to Kenan from Kenan and Kel. I really wish he spelled it K-E-E-N-A-N. But he doesn't. What's a blogger to do? Jacksonville by seven.

Carolina at CINCINNATI -- I need to keep picking Cincinnati, because my oddsmaker, i.e. my brain, thinks the Bengals have to win soon. The Panthers are looking real tough with Steve Smith back, but I like the Stripes at home. They're due. Cincinnati by three.

NEW ENGLAND at Buffalo -- Buffalo is like that team that no one really remembers, that kind of shows up and plays well occasionally, and then other times, they are awful. You know, think Nebraska's basketball team. They'll probably offer a .500 or sub-.500 record, but they somehow perform in certain tough games. But the Pats will win, by seven.

Pittsburgh at ATLANTA -- I'm not, nor will I ever be, on the Steelers bandwagon this year. I can't handle the idea that somehow after beating THE KANSAS CITY CHIEFS, at Heinz Field, by 38 points, the Steelers are going to right the ship here in Pittsburgh. My great aunt Helen could throw two touchdown passes against that secondary. By no means am I counting the Steelers' season out, but I like the Falcons at home, by three points.

Philadelphia at TAMPA BAY -- The Eagles are on a slippery slope. They'll recover balance back home, but the Bucs look great with Bruce Gradkowski. I actually spoke to Cadillac Williams this week before the game, and he told me, "Ya'll knah how we do dahn sawt, we gon' git it pawppin'." Yeah, he never said that. But the Bucs take it by three.

Detroit at NEW YORK JETS -- How embarrassing is it to be a Bills fan? So embarrassing that losing to the Lions doesn't even bother them. Or does it? Maybe the Lions have found their groove. And maybe you've heard of Millard Fillmore. Jets by 10.

Green Bay at MIAMI -- I won't lie -- I don't like Brett Favre. He should retire now, and spare us all the media hooplah surrounding his story. In the meantime, I really need Greg Jennings to score a few touchdowns and get about 150 yards receiving. But at home, I like Joey and company. Yes, I just said that. No, I'm not currently checking into a mental hospital. Fins by four.

SAN DIEGO at Kansas City -- Even in that atmosphere, I like the Chargers. I don't quite have a grip on it yet, but there's something about the Bolts that I didn't like the last few weeks. I don't get that Super Bowl Champ feel about them. Then again, I did pick a Twins-Padres World Series. But I like the Chargers in this game. Let's say they win it by seven.

DENVER at Cleveland -- The Browns stink. The Broncos defense is ferocious. And no, I didn't just say that so I could use 'ferocious.' They will shut off the Browns offense, which is easier to turn off than a girl when you recite your favorite toilet jokes. I guess it also depends on the girl. Bad analogy? Broncos by 10.

Minnesota at SEATTLE -- I will always take the Seahawks at home. Seattle by four.

ARIZONA at Oakland -- My fantasy team normally starts the Chicago defense, but they have a bye. This weekend's starter? Arizona. I'm expecting big things. Cards by 10.

Washington at INDY -- The Colts are similar to my aforementioned opinion of the Seahawks at home. Colts by three.

New York Giants at DALLAS -- I don't know which team to expect in Dallas: the Giants who came back against Philly and dominated Atlanta, or the Giants whose secondary was torched by Seattle. I'll say the latter will show up in Dallas. 'Boys by five.

There they are. The picks of the century. Or at least for Week Seven. Make sure you do three things:

1) Watch the World Series (I'd say Tigers in six games but I don't want to jinx them. Crap, I just did.)
2) Read The Pitt News, either in print on campus or online at www.pittnews.com
3) Listen to my radio show at www.wpts.org/live or 92.1 FM if you're in the 'Burgh. Tune in Nov. 4 at noon and Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. for my illustrious broadcasts of Pitt football at South Florida (yessss!) and at Connecticut, respectively.

Be good, yinz guys.

NFL Week Six Picks

Well, I'm having a nearly flawless season picking winners and losers, shining a record of 44-14. The biggest problem with that is my 30-28 record predicting the margin of victory. But who's counting?

To the picks!

BUFFALO at Detroit -- Never bet on the Lions. I don't know if this is the game they can win to break the winless start, but it has the makings of it. Still, picking Jon Kitna and the Lions just seems too silly. Bills by three.

Carolina at BALTIMORE -- Now I'm not on, and never was on, the Ravens bandwagon. But I do think they are a tough team to beat at home against their defense. Jamal Lewis and Steve McNair finally showed their true colors on national television, and the Undefeated Team Nobody Saw Play crumbled. That said, the Panthers haven't looked great on the road yet. Ravens by three.

CINCINNATI at Tampa Bay -- I like the Bucs but the Bengals are coming off a bye week. They've had two weeks to let their 38-13 loss to the Pats sink in, and now they have a team they can crush in their crosshairs. Bruce Gradkowksi will have to wait one more week. Bengals by seven.

Houston at DALLAS -- Enough about T.O. Drew Bledsoe is very mediocre, if that's possible. The Texans aren't going to win on the road. 'Boys at home by seven.

New York Giants at ATLANTA -- This is a game that could go either way. The Giants have played like two different teams in their two wins and two losses. The Falcons have had a week to prepare for the Giants and it will be loud in Hotlanta. 'Birds by seven.

Philadelphia at NEW ORLEANS -- The Saints have the Eagles at home. The Eagles are coming off a huge emotional victory over the Cowboys. Everything points to Reggie Bush exploding this week. Saints by seven.

SEATTLE at St. Louis -- Unlike Bill Simmons, I'm not, nor will I ever be, on the Rams bandwagon. Seattle is a better team with a better coach, better defense and better quarterback. Seahawks by three.

Tennessee at WASHINGTON -- The Skins will come back home, licking their wounds after that terrible performance last week. The Titans blew a big chance to send shockwaves through the NFL. And now they will return to the lowest valley in the league from which they came. Redskins by 10.

Kansas City at PITTSBURGH -- I'm taking the Steelers at home. They need the victory and Damon Huard is the Chiefs' quarterback. Enough said. Steelers by seven.

Miami at NEW YORK JETS -- Never pick the Dolphins. Jets by seven.

SAN DIEGO at San Francisco -- The Chargers are the team to beat. And no, there isn't a bias because I'm starting Philip Rivers in fantasy. Chargers by 10.

Oakland at DENVER -- The Raiders...'Nuff said. Plus, Denver is home, riding high and playing in a rivalry game against a far less talented team. Broncos by 10.

CHICAGO at Arizona -- The Bears against Matt Leinart? Is this a joke? The Bears maul the Cards by 14.

That's it. Call home. Tell your friends. And never forget to check out www.pittsnews.com or listen to me on the radio Monday mornings at 9, streaming at www.wpts.org/live.

From the Championship Series to the NFL

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a heap of trouble. Starting 1-3 for the first time since the 2002 season, Blitzburgh is quickly falling behind in its division. In fairness, people wrote them off last year after a late-season, three-game losing streak, only to find the Steelers crowned Super Bowl champs weeks later.

I know, I know -- the season is only five weeks old, but the Steelers offense might enter panic mode this week. Ben Roethlisberger has thrown seven interceptions without tossing one touchdown pass. In total offense, Pittsburgh ranks 25th in the entire league. Furthermore, even with 1,000-yard rusher Willie Parker, the Steelers are only 22nd in the league running the ball. And when your total defense isn't top-five material -- especially against the pass (22nd in the league) -- things are going to go poorly.

I wouldn't say the Steelers are done, but unless they string together some wins starting next week at home against Kansas City, they are on the brink of extinction. With the Ravens and Bengals poised to take over control of the division, things are now-or-never for the Steelers. The schedule doesn't favor Pittsburgh, finishing the season with three games against three tough, talented teams (at Carolina, Baltimore and at Cincinnati).

Moving on to baseball, things are heating up. We have our ALCS and NLCS matchups all ready to go -- Detroit and Oakland in the AL; St. Louis (really?) and the New York Mets in the NL. Let's visit key factors in each series.

Showing their stripes
1) The Tigers need to hit -- I don't know if their starters and bullpen can throw as well as they did against the Yankees.
2) Their starters must throw strikes and avoid big situations in which Frank Thomas can cause damage -- Thomas was a beast against Minnesota (5-10, 2 HRs, 3 runs).
3) And obviously the Tigers need to win at least one in Oakland, where the A's were 49-32 this year. But the Stripes were 49-32 on the road, and the experience winning on the road could help them in the first two games, especially with Oakland on longer rest.

Breaking the Curse of Billy Beane?
1) The A's have to be careful against the Tigers at home (see above) and if they aren't able to get on base as easily as the Minnesota series, they could find trouble.
2) How healthy is Rich Harden? If he can go in Game Three, as he's slated to do, he'll have to be solid. I think Zito is good for three starts should this series take all seven games, but the A's still need at least one good start from both Esteban Loaiza and Rich Harden, because Dan Haren will matchup with Justin Verlander.

These are the matchups (with games 5-7 projected):
Zito-Nate Robertson
Loaiza-Kenny Rogers
Haren-Verlander
Harden-Bonderman
Zito-Robertson
Loaiza-Rogers
Haren/Harden-Verlander

I think the matchups favor the Tigers, especially when we don't know how healthy Rich Harden is. So I'll take the Tigers in seven.

Meet the Mets
1) Just hit -- if the Mets hit, the pitching will only need to be adequate. And the Cards don't stack any lefties in their rotation, meanwhile the Mets feast on righties -- go figure.
2) Just get Willie into the fifth or sixth, then Willie can get his bullpen involved -- a major advantage leaning for the Mets.
3) Win with Tom Glavine on the mound, otherwise the Mets might find themselves in trouble with shaky starters John Maine, Steve Trachsel and Oliver Perez throwing games 2-4.

Surprise in the Cards?
1) Get Scott Rolen going -- the bopper only hit 1 for 11 in the NLDS against San Diego, and the pressure is only bigger now.
2) Win with Chris Carpenter -- the same philosophy as Glavine and the Mets: If the Cards can't win with Carpenter, they can't win many other ways.
3) Get either Jeff Suppan or Jeff Weaver going, they'll need another innings-eater with Carpenter to help carry the load. The bullpen is atrocious beyond closer Adam Wainwright and no way will Anthony Reyes or Jason Marquis help in Game 4.

These are the matchups with games 5-7 projected
Weaver-Glavine
Suppan-Maine
Carpenter-Trachsel
(This is where the trouble lies for St. Louis -- do they start Weaver on three days rest? Or go with Anthony Reyes, a guy who's struggled all year with his command and stamina, or Jason Marquis, a pitcher who relies on a sinkerball that doesn't sink and nothing else to rely on? But they will throw against Oliver Perez, a guy who could either be unhittable or terrible, with more odds put on him being awful.)
Weaver?-Glavine
Suppan-Maine
Carpenter-Trachsel

If the series makes it to Game Seven, I'll take the Cardinals. But I don't see it going more than fives games, with the Mets winning every game but Game 3.

So, after taking the Twins-Padres, and biting on it, I'm taking Tigers-Mets with my fingers crossed. I know the Athletics are good, but I like the Tigers mystique.

NFL Week Five Picks

Welcome back to another fine edition of Weekly Picks with yours truly. After three weeks of picking and four weeks of NFL football, I hold a 31-13 overall record when picking the winners. The downside? I'm only 20-24 picking the margin of victory.

Moving on to the picks of the week…

Buffalo at CHICAGO – I might sound crazy, but the Bills aren't completely out of this game. I wouldn't be surprised if they gave the Bears a run for their money. Think about it – the Bills are coming off a great home win and the Bears are coming off a colossal, emotional victory Monday night. Could there be a bigger chance for a letdown? Regardless, never pick against the Bears. Chitown by six.

Cleveland at CAROLINA – I thought the Browns looked almost average...until they squeaked out a victory against Oakland. Granted, it was in Oakland, in that difficult road atmosphere, but really, it's the Raiders. Carolina is coming back into form with a two-headed monster in the backfield and a recovering Steve Smith. The Panthers should win easily. I'll say by 10.

Detroit at MINNESOTA – Love the Vikes at home. Hate the Lions on the road. Heck, hate the Lions anywhere. I can't pick them in any game. I'm just waiting for people to hunt down Matt Millen (I'm surprised they haven't already) and put his head on a stick. Vikings by seven.

Miami at NEW ENGLAND – I have Chris Chambers on my fantasy team. Yeah, a Pro Bowl receiver with boat loads of talent, not to mention 4,000-plus yards receiving and 41 touchdowns in his career with Miami. Apparently picking him in fantasy is a "bandwagon" pick because some experts at assorted sports media outlets said Miami would be good this year. I picked him because he is a solid playmaker and has had several good years. His main problem? His quarterback is terrible – yeah, Good Doctor picked Culpepper up, in case you were wondering. Nonetheless, the Pats look like they are finally ready to roll, and Miami couldn't be a better team for the Pats to play heading into their bye week. Pats by seven.

ST. LOUIS at Green Bay – Did you see that Monday Night Football game? I assume you did. That's why I'm picking the Rams to win at Lambeau. St. Louis by three.

Tampa Bay at NEW ORLEANS – The Saints should win this game in Bruce Gradkowski's first start in the spotlight for the Bucs. I'm intrigued to see how he does. Hopefully Reggie Bush and Cadillac Williams get it together this week (again, the whole fantasy thing) but I wouldn’t hold my breath. N'ahlins by 10.

Tennessee at INDIANAPOLIS – I think any team in the AFC with a shot at the playoffs would kill for a chance to play the Titans and Texans twice each. Indy is going to kill, and I mean absolutely murder, the Titans. I'll take the Colts by 14.

Washington at NEW YORK GIANTS – Look for the Giants to get things back in order – at least for now – when they play this big rivalry game. The Redskins offense looked downright explosive last week against a great defense (Jacksonville), so keep an eye on Mark Brunell and Clinton Portis, they will be the keys for Washington. But I like home teams in the NFC East. Giants by three.

Kansas City at ARIZONA – I'm gonna go out on a limb and say the Chiefs big win over the 49ers last week isn't exactly the kind of team the Chiefs really are. I like the Cards at home, even if they don't have an offensive line or much of a defense. I really have no reason to pick Arizona, so let's just get that out on the table. Cards by three.

New York Jets at JACKSONVILLE – Did you hear that? That was the sound of Eric Fatgini's triple cheeseburger sub from Enzo's Pizzeria on Long Island hitting its wrapping. The real question is – was it while Fatgini was watching Jacksonville's defense on tape or his Jets’ defense on tape? The Jags defense is too physical for the Jets' O. And the Jags offensive line is too physical for the Jets' D-line, so the Jets will have trouble getting any pressure on Kenan Thompson – you know, the kid from Kenan and Kel. Jags by seven.

Oakland at SAN FRANCISCO – And no, there isn't a worse game all season than this one. Ugh, 49ers by seven.

Dallas at PHILADELPHIA – Sticking with my "NFC East teams don't lose division games at home" theory, even though home teams in the NFC East are 1-1 this year against division foes. I'll take Philly. This is a huge emotional game for the Iggles. Philly by seven.

Pittsburgh at SAN DIEGO – Give me one good reason why the Steelers can even come close in this game? The Chargers will be at home, looking for blood after blowing a win against Baltimore and the Steelers couldn't be more vulnerable. This might be the biggest game of the season for Pittsburgh. I'm intrigued to see how they respond. They came through whenever they needed to last year, can they do it this year? I say no. Chargers by seven.

Baltimore at DENVER – I expect the NFL's undefeated teams to dwindle down to Chicago and Indy after this Monday Night Football contest. The Broncos are so tough at home. Plus they have a stingy defense that should stifle the poor Ravens offense. On the other side, the Ravens' D is probably the best in the league. But the Broncos' O is much more functional than the Ravens' O. Broncos by three in a very, very low-scoring affair.

There you have it. Again, check out www.pittnews.com for great, up-to-date sports coverage in and around the University of Pittsburgh. Also, tune in to the Water Cooler Conversation every Monday morning at www.wpts.org/live or live on your radio dial at 92.1 FM. And if you have time, go to www.thepalestra.com and check some of my web-television reporting from Pitt. Enjoy the weekend, folks.

NFL Quarterly Update

Football season is one quarter completed -- at least in the NFL. So I figured I toss my playoff predictions your way after watching significant football in the first four weeks, getting a grasp on potential contenders, sleepers and duds.

But before I get into my projections, let's talk about something that happened Saturday night. Nine of my friendly lady friends hosted a "Pitt Panther Pride Party," at which Panther fans showed up with their gear on in support of Pitt football.

The party filled their house with people. I have to admit, I didn't recognize many of them, and by midnight or so, I was too drunk to really care. But sometime after midnight, one of the girls came downstairs to the door, where I had taken up shop collecting dough for kids coming in.

She announced something I'd never forget: someone had defecated in their bathtub. Yes, defecated. Pooped. Launched a dookie rocket. Now obviously, it was a guy. Girls don't poop -- especially in other girls' bathtubs. So we assume it was one of the random dudes there.

Now hear me -- any person on the Pitt campus known to be harboring, aiding or abetting a member of al-Crappa will be punished. Severely. The girls at McKee and their large circle of friends will not sleep under Defecata bin Crappen is found.

Anyway, let's talk about the NFL. I will offer this disclaimer -- my picks will clearly be only half right. I'm going to catch a lot of heat for what I say about certain teams in certain cities where yours truly currently resides.

AFC's Top Two:
Indianapolis 14-2; The Colts are the best regular season team in the NFL. But as long as Manning is quarterback, I have a hard time saying they'll make any runs in the playoffs. Yet they are so hard to pick against in the regular season.
San Diego 12-4; Despite Sunday's loss to the Ravens in Baltimore, I still like the Chargers D and LaDanian Tomlinson. This offense will be quality all season and its going to be real tough to win in San Diego.

AFC's Other Two Division Winners:
New England 11-5; The Patriots will play more like the team we saw in Cincinnati than the team we saw in the first few games. Brady finally has a go-to receiver picked out and the two-headed monster of Corey Dillon and Laurence Maroney will wear out opponents week in and week out.
Cincinnati 11-5; Yeah, yeah. You're wondering where I've got the Ravens if they aren't winning the AFC North. Call me crazy, but I still have faith that the Bengals are the team to beat in the division. I don't think they will be the Super Bowl contenders that everyone said they'd be (including me) before the season unless Carson Palmer returns fully to his old self and the Bengals D actually stops the run.

AFC Wild Card:
Baltimore Ravens 10-6; The Ravens still have a brutal schedule in front of them. And I can't quite point my finger on it, but there's just something about Steve McNair that makes me throw up in mouth -- maybe the fact that he's more beat up than a West Virginia girl (low blow?).
Jacksonville Jaguars 10-6; The Jags defense is physical. They've hit some tough games at Indy and Washington the past two weeks, but I like the schedule down the stretch -- it's easier than a Penn State girl. They will defend their way to a lot of victory.

Yeah, sorry bud, No Dice:
Pittsburgh 9-7; In their division with their schedule, nine wins might be stretching it. I can't give Ben Roethlisberger the benefit of the doubt because he just doesn't look comfortable. The real test will be in San Diego Sunday. Roethlisberger will have had two weeks of rest and practice to really get things in order, and practicing against a great defense like Pittsburgh's helps.
New York Jets 8-8; Give the Jets one season under Eric Mangini before we expect them to challenge for the AFC East title. In the meantime, they'll rustle some feathers (see: Indianapolis 31, New York Jets 28) and make a run at the wild card spots.
Denver Broncos 9-7; The defense looks really good. They have such a difficult schedule that I have a hard time giving them a playoff spot. I don't think they can handle the Chargers or even the Chiefs on the road. And I don't like the offense.

The NFC's Top Two:
Chicago 13-3; I just looked through their schedule and couldn't find a game that they can't win. The defense is absolutely incredible. The offense is suddenly capable with a healthy Rex Grossman. Add Thomas Jones, a serviceable back with some experience, and the Bears are the best team in the NFL.
Seattle Seahawks 12-4; I'm not falling off the bandwagon yet. The loss against the Bears was alarming, but not bad enough to drop them into the next category. They are still the team everyone is gunning for in the NFC. And when Shaun Alexander comes back, they will be ready to make a run.

NFC's Other Division Winners:
Atlanta 11-5; The Falcons have the defense and the running attack to wear down opponents. This division is the most competitive around, with Carolina and New Orleans challenging for the top spot. But I have trouble seeing Hotlanta go anywhere once the playoffs begin.
Philadelphia 11-5; The Eagles are good. Donovan McNabb looks really fantastic so far. As long as he stays healthy and keeps connecting with Donte' "Why the Apostrophe?" Stallworth, they will be dangerous downfield. The defense beats people up. The only problem is the difficulty of the division will tax Philly into a few losses.

NFC Wild Card:
Carolina 10-6; I can't pick against them after the last two games. They have two running backs that offer dangerous breakout threats and a defense that pressures any quarterback. I'm not on the Super Bowl Bandwagon like everyone else, but they are a good team.
Dallas 10-6; The Eagles main contention for the NFC East. The only problem, as was the problem for the Pats and Bills in years past, is Drew Bledsoe. I don't like him as a player, or should I say a statue?

Well this is awkward, but you guys didn't make it, sooo I guess we'll see you later;
New Orleans 9-7; The Saints will need one more season, I think, to crash the playoffs. They are the feel-good story in the NFL, but I don't trust their defense.
Washington Redskins 9-7; Mark Brunell always looks better when Clinton Portis is running, but still, the 'Skins will need a lot to take on Dallas and Philly.
Minnesota Vikings 8-8; I like the Vikes, but they don't possess the offense to get things done against a really tough schedule.
St. Louis 8-8; Marc Bulger -- need I say more?

AFC Championship Game:
San Diego over Indianapolis

NFC Championship Game:
Chicago over Seattle

Chicago over San Diego in Super Bowl XLI. There you have it. Check back with me if you've found Defecata bin Crappen.

NFL Week Four Picks

Welcome to the third week of predictions for which I pick both a winner and the margin of victory. I count them separately, so if I picked Cincinnati over Pittsburgh by 10, and Cincinnati won by eight, I'm 1-0 picking the winner, 0-1 picking the score. Simple enough, right?

Before we get into the picks, I was watching Laguna Beach yesterday after reading Bill Simmons little rant about the sheer lack of personality of the male characters in the show. I mean, it's a new season, so it's funny to see the new characters, especially guys like Cameron -- a Jason impersonator -- try to act (yeah, I said act. So what, big deal, wanna fight about it?).

But I just wanted to mention the gradual increase in ridiculously hot female cast members since season one. The first season we had LC and Kristin. They battled for hot-girl supremacy. Then in season two, Kristin held the top spot easily, but Jessica, Alex H., Alex M. and even Taylor made some noise. And now in the third season, there's Tessa, Kyndra, Lexie and Breanna, with scores of other girls making cameos.

Sure, most of those girls pale in comparison to one or two of the ridiculously hot girls in the show. But think about it, if these girls went to your high school, they would easily be the hottest girl. I don't know about you, but that bothers me. I can't quite figure out why, but it does. Kind of like Regis Philbin -- no one really likes him, but we can't figure out why. Is it the annoying voice? The overexuberant chatter? Who knows. But he just isn't an enjoyable figure.

But more to the point, do they even go to school? Someone should look into this. Has anyone ever seen them doing homework or essays? Or even complaining about school work or getting into college? I want to know. And I want to know now. Someone call the creepy dude who always looks mad on Law and Order: Criminal Intent (I think his name is Vincent D'Onorfio -- don't count on it though).

Also, I highly recommend you go on Wikipedia and read the "Controversy" section at the end of the article. It has inside information on the reality of the show. Apparently Jason smashed Alex's head into a locker at school and that's why they broke up. How hilarious is that? I knew the kid was terrible, but not that bad. So check it out. Right after you research Mario Lopez and Jaleel White.

Anyway, I have NFL picks to make. This week just isn't quite there in terms of contests like last week, but we'll go with it.

Arizona at ATLANTA --The Falcons ran into the gauntlet Monday and had no chance of escaping. No way were the Saints going to lose their first game back at the Superdome. But the Falcons are still good, and with the controversy stewing already in Arizona, the cards are stacked against Kurt Warner and company (pun intended). Falcons by seven.

DALLAS at Tennessee -- In spite of all the T.O. business going on this week, something about which I don't think I should opine, the Cowboys will be ready to play after the bye week. Give Bill Parcells two weeks against a lowly team like the Titans, who are suffering the same problems as the Cardinals with a far less talented team, and the Cowboys are easy favorites. Dallas by 10.

INDIANAPOLIS at New York Jets -- This could be an interesting contest if the Jets play well. They've looked pretty decent so far. But the Colts are too good for me to pick against them. It'll either be a close one or a brutal beatdown, but I say Colts pull away in the end by eight.

MIAMI at Houston -- You won't see me picking this many road teams unless the host clubs are terrible. And this week, they are. Miami isn't better than Houston by more than a running back, but the fact that every analyst second-guesses any move made in Houston makes me question the confidence in the locker room. Dolphins by three.

MINNESOTA at Buffalo -- The Vikes should've won last week. The Bills should've won last week. The difference? The Vikings played the Bears; the Bills played the Jets. The Bears are a Super Bowl contender; the Jets are a snow ball's prayer of a wild card contender. Minnesota recharged its batteries when Brad Johnson took over last season and boating is now illegal in Minneapolis. Vikings by three.

New Orleans at CAROLINA -- The dream start to the Saints' season will end this weekend. Not that I'm ready to hop back on the Panthers bandwagon after they squeaked out a win over Tampa Bay, but just because the Saints will be in serious letdown mode after their inspirational performance Monday night. Carolina by seven.

SAN DIEGO at Baltimore -- This will be the first test of the season for both of these clubs. San Diego beat up on Oakland and Tennessee; Baltimore crushed Tampa Bay, Oakland and Cleveland. Call me crazy, but I like the Chargers on the road. It should be close, with a good offense meeting a good defense, so I'll say San Diego by two. Why? Because offense wins games (I know, I know, "But defense wins championships.").

San Francisco at KANSAS CITY -- The Chiefs have had two long weeks to lick their wounds after an 0-2 start under new coach Herm Edwards. If Brian Westbrook torched San Fran on the ground, then Larry Johnson will literally restart the gold rush against the 49ers. Even without Trent Green, the Chiefs should be the favorites. KC by six.

Detroit at ST. LOUIS -- The Rams are a tough team. Detroit can't buy a win. Rule #368 in picking winners of NFL games: Never pick a team that loses -- at home -- to the Packers. Rams by seven.

CLEVELAND at Oakland -- The Raiders are terrible. And so are the Browns. Cleveland by 10.

JACKSONVILLE at Washington -- The Jags will be hungry after their tough loss last weekend. There is no chance that Mark Brunell will repeat his performance from last week. Jacksonville by seven.

New England at CINCINNATI -- Both of these teams have yet to look good. But Cincy is more likely to get things going. Tom Brady is quietly furious and the Pats' offense couldn't look worse. Keep an eye out for Carson Palmer -- can he hold on to the football and keep his composure in the pocket? He played rather poorly against Pittsburgh last week and still won, but the Pats are a tougher opponent that will make Cincy pay for its mistakes. And yet, I still like the Bengals by six.

Seattle at CHICAGO -- What a fantastic match up. But on Sunday night, the Seahawks will be running that spread, four-receiver offense without much of a running game. Give the Bears only one thing to defend against and your offense is more doomed than trout swimming in a barrel in a grizzly's lair (what, bad joke?). Bears by four.

Green Bay at PHILADELPHIA -- In the worst Monday Night Football contest so far, the Eagles will feast on the Pack. D-Mac looks great so far and Donte' "Why the Apostrophe?" Stallworth is back this week. The Packers can't beat anyone on the road except for the Lions. Eagles by 13.

OK, so at this point, I'm 22-8 picking the winners of games and 14-16 picking the right margin of victory.

As always, tune in on Monday morning at 9 for the Water Cooler Conversation with Matt Bolks, Ken Lynch and me. Catch it streaming at www.wpts.org/live. And also keep an eye out for The Pitt News sports section, it always has good stuff from a great staff. Take 'er easy.

NFL Week Three Picks

I had a great first pick week after Week Two: 13-3 picking winners and losers, 11-5 covering my own spreads. Anyway, as usual, there's a plethora of exciting games this weekend. Let's git dahn to it (that's my typed Pittsburgh accent).

Tennessee at MIAMI -- I will keep picking Miami, and they will keep disappointing me. Basically for this game, it came down to which team was more likely to beat themselves. Dolphins by a touchdown (if they can score one).

Jacksonville at INDIANAPOLIS -- The game of the week in my opinion, although there's another one in Pittsburgh at the same time. Jacksonville's defense might be one of the few in the league capable of slowing down Peyton Manning. And they'll do that in Jacksonville. But the Colts are at home and home is where the heart is. Colts by three.

WASHINGTON at Houston -- Wow. Two of the first three games are awful. I feel weird, especially after saying how great the week was going to be. Anyway, I will pick against Houston every game and let them beat me once or twice. Same with Oakland. I can't wait to see how bad Mark Brunell is this week, but it won't be bad enough to lose to the lowly Texans. 'Skins by seven.

Green Bay at DETROIT -- Finally, an easy win for the Lions. Wait, what? Roy Williams, anyone? This continues the trend of terrible games at a 75% clip. Another team I'll pick against all year? The Packers. Detroit by six.

New York Jets at BUFFALO -- The Bills look like the surprise team in the AFC East -- surprise in a good way. At home against the Jets should be a game the Bills can win. Buffalo by three.

CAROLINA at Tampa Bay -- The Bucs just don't have it together. And with a gun pointed to my head, I'm calling the Panthers by four.

CINCINNATI at Pittsburgh -- The Bengals, along with the Chargers. are my favorites to make the AFC Title game. The Steelers aren't going to make the playoffs. The Bengals begin their quest to drive Pittsburgh into a summer-long depression with a 10-point win.

CHICAGO at Minnesota -- I keep picking teams on the road, but Chicago looks like a top tier team in the NFL. Defensively, they make plays. Offensively, they don't mess anything up. The Vikes are good, but da Bears are better. Chitown by seven.

BALTIMORE at Cleveland -- It doesn't get any easier for the Browns. Their first three games are against opponents with a combined 6-0 record. How fun. Baltimore will either win the AFC North or get a wild card bid to the playoffs. This game will be in their win column, Ravens by 10.

NEW YORK GIANTS at Seattle -- Remember last year's game? It won't happen this year, but it was quite the finish. This is where the we-lost-the-Super-Bowl-and-we-are-going-to-disappoint slump kicks in. Giants by six.

PHILADELPHIA at San Francisco -- I'm sorry, but the 49ers beating the Rams at home isn't going to convince me that they are a surprise team. Give me 10 weeks and a 7-5 record and maybe we'll talk. Iggles by seven.

St. Louis at ARIZONA -- The Cardinals will tough to compete with at home, and this game is going to be a great shootout. I like the Cardinals' receivers better, but I hope there are 65-70 points scored in this game. 'Zona by seven.

Denver at NEW ENGLAND -- Revenge. Denver stumbles into New England with 19 points scored in two games. Jake Plummer is already on the hot seat in Denver. The Pats haven't looked great so far, in fact, they've looked flat and relatively unorganized. But at home, against a lesser opponent, with a week with new receivers under his belt, Tom Brady will have his game together. Pats by 10.

Atlanta at NEW ORLEANS -- I think the Falcons are better than people thought they'd be, but on this emotional night, at this emotional stadium, with this emotional crowd, no way am I picking against the Saints. New Orleans 3-0?! REGGIE! REGGIE! REGGIE! Saints by three.

There you have it. I hope to continue my pick 'em streak.

Overall: 13-3 Against my spread: 11-5

NFL Week Two picks

After a long vacation from the blog, I've decided to try doing quick blurbs about each NFL game over the upcoming weekend and pick the winner. Let's have a go, shall we?

Buffalo at MIAMI -- The Bills put up a surprising performance against the Pats last weekend, nearly snatching a victory from the highly-touted Pats in Foxboro. But this weekend the Dolphins will be on a mission and I think last weekend was a fluke for Buffalo. They are still one of the five worst teams in the NFL. Dolphins by a touchdown.

Carolina at MINNESOTA -- I think the Panthers were cursed by the "This team is definitely going to the Super Bowl" chatter before the season even kicked off. The Vikings looked good AT Washington on Monday night, and I think they'll be just as good at home. Call it Vikings by three.

Cleveland at CINCINNATI -- Even though I liked Charlie Frye's performance for the Browns last weekend, everything else looked awful. The Bengals dominated Kansas City despite a mediocre performance statistic-wise by Carson Palmer. Cincinnati wins by two touchdowns.

Detroit at CHICAGO -- Did ya see Chicago's defense last week? Sure, it was against Brett "I still think I'm a gunslinger even though I should've retired in 2004" Favre, but the Bears suffocated them. Detroit struggled a bit on the offensive side of the ball, so they'll need to improve if they think they can even touch the Bears. They can't. Bears by 10.

Houston at INDIANAPOLIS -- Has there ever been a more unappealing game than this one? Houston is terrible and already regretting their drafting Mario Williams (who?) over Reggie Bush (Reggie! Reggie! Reggie!). The Colts will steamroll for points and win easily. Let's say Colts by 14.

NEW ORLEANS at Green Bay -- The Saints looked OK at Cleveland. Now put them at Lambeau against the worst QB in the NFL, and what do we have? Another Saints victory. 2-0! Reggie! Reggie! Reggie! OK, OK, Saints by a couple of field goals.

New York Giants at PHILLY -- I'm taking Philly at home. The Giants are good and they will win between 10-12 games, but playing in Philly is never easy -- especially when the Eagles are riding high. The Giants will beat Philly at Giants Stadium, but Philly beats the Giants at Lincoln Financial by three.

Oakland at BALTIMORE -- I am going to pick against Oakland every week and take the one or two wrong picks. Any team with Aaron Brooks as their quarterback is in trouble, but did you see them on Monday night? Worst team ever. And I mean ever. Meanwhile Baltimore was busy Sunday killing the Bucs at Tampa Bay. Call me crazy, but I think the Ravens will be even better at home. Baltimore by 24.

Tampa Bay at ATLANTA -- Did you see the Falcons' running game last week against the Panthers? It was dominant to say the least. I think the Bucs are in troublee and this week will prove so. Atlanta wins by a touchdown.

Arizona at SEATTLE -- I don't get why everyone thinks Arizona is some big sleeper team that will shock everyone and make the playoffs. Kurt Warner is not the second coming of Christ. And everytime a team is touted as a sleeper pick by everyone and their kid brother, they turn out disappointing. I'm taking Seattle at home (even with Deion Branch in jeans) by a touchdown.

ST. LOUIS at San Francisco -- The Rams looked good last week despite only scoring field goals. How crazy is that? The 49ers are in for another tough year. Call it a 10-point win for the Rams.

Kansas City at DENVER -- Let's see: You lose your franchise quarterback in the first week thanks to a blistering hit, then spend the whole week wondering how the hell you are going to win. Add your most bitter rival. Mix in some road trip. And what do you get? Denver wins by 10.

NEW ENGLAND at the New York Jets -- The Jets pumped out a decent performance last week before almost blowing the game. The Pats barely beat the Bills. But I fully expect the Pats to recover and win on the road against the weak Jets running game. Chad Pennington can't beat Belichick if Peyton Manning can't. Pats by three.

Tennessee at SAN DIEGO -- Duh. The Chargers might be my sleeper pick for Super Bowl Champs. We'll see. In the meantime, LT will run all over the Titans. Vince Young and Kerry Collins aren't going to win many games this early in the season. Chargers by two touchdowns.

Washington at DALLAS -- As much as I want to take the Redskins in this game, I gotta go with the home team. I hate picking anything that involves my trusting of Drew Bledsoe or T.O., but at home I think they can take care of business. Let's see how the Redskins bounce back after a tough loss Monday night. 'Boys by three.

Pittsburgh at JACKSONVILLE -- Remember when these guys played two years ago? It was incredible. It was physical, smash-mouth, take-no-prisoners football. But the Jaguars are good, and they're at home. Jags by three.

That's it for this week. If you get a chance, check out www.pittsburghpanthers.com and look over Pitt basketball's schedule, you will shout for joy. Also, check out www.pittnews.com for great sports coverage of Pitt sports. Take 'er easy.

World Cup Final Preview

Well, tomorrow's kick-off will be the last of a great World Cup. Card-showing records aside, this has been a memorable Cup for so many reasons. After I preview the Championship game, I will give some awards for different feats. Anyway, let's break down tomorrow's matchup.

Italy will start a lineup that shapes out like this:

Buffon (GK)

Cannavaro (centerback) Materazzi (centerback)
Zambrotta (rightback) Grosso (leftback)

Gattuso (defensive/holding midfield) Pirlo (holding midfield)

Camoranesi (right attacking midfield) Perrotta (left attacking midfield)

Totti (attacking/free role midfield)

Toni (lone striker)


And the French will put out the same exact formation, looking like this:

Barthez (GK)

Thuram (centerback) Gallas (centerback)
Sagnol (right wingback) Abidal (left wingback)

Vieira (holding midfield) Makelele (holding midfield)

Ribery (right attacking midfield) Malouda (left attacking midfield)

Zidane (central attacking midfield)

Henry (lone striker)

These teams are very similar in their styles, with both preferring possession and free-flowing soccer. They will provide us with an exciting final in that there will be no shortage of action and attacking.

For Italy, their strengths begin with fantastic goalkeeping. Gianliugi Buffon has allowed one goal the entire tournament -- an own goal against the Americans -- and has solidified his spot atop the heap of goalkeepers in the world. The Italian defense is equally incredible, using depth, awareness, organization and great decision-making to provide an impenetrable wall in front of Buffon. Centerback Fabio Cannavaro is my Player of the Tournament, which we'll get to later on.

In attacking, Italy possesses loads of talent. From the overlapping wingbacks, dangerous attacking midfielders and free-rolling Francesco Totti to the captivating striker Luca Toni, they have a chance to score everytime they possess the ball. The key in this match will be getting Zambrotta and Grosso up the flanks, overlapping with Perrotta and Camoranesi, delivering service into the box and wreaking havoc on the French defense.

But Italy can be beaten, provided the French attack floods the box with players and pecks away at the iron wall that is the Italian defense. If the French score early or first, the Italians might be in trouble, as they haven't played from behind yet in this tournament and may be forced to take on a different style that exposes their defense if they over-attack.

For France, the strengths are as plentiful and, in fact, very similar. The only difference is really in their goalkeeping. Fabien Barthez frightens me as a goalkeeper. Sure, he's played well enough to allow just two goals in the entire tournament, but he has had lapses for which the Italians, more so than any other French opponent so far, will punish him. But if he is playing well, good luck scoring against France's balanced defense. Thuram and Gallas really hold down the back, with defensive midfielders Vieira and Makelele making attack out of the midfield virtually impossible.

The midfield plays a great, free-flowing form, letting Ribery, Malouda and Zidane run freely to any spot on the pitch. Ribery can be spotted on the right, in the middle or even off to the left throughout the course of the game. Malouda will usually stick to the left, but drift into the middle when Abidal comes up the flank from the wingback position. Sagnol attacks well from the right, overlapping with Ribery and Zidane while providing top-notch service to world-class striker Thierry Henry.

The French really struggle when Henry doesn't receive much service or any help up front. They've been a lot better with their helping Henry of late, allowing them to make this heroic run to the final. But they can be exposed by their risky goalkeeping, so look for Italy to challenge Barthez early and often from distance.

Matchups to watch for:

Pirlo and Gattuso enforcing the center of the pitch against Zidane and Ribery. They will need to nullify Zidane and shut him down if they want to prevent him from starting trouble. They shut down Michael Essien, Landon Donovan, Michael Ballack, Sergiy Rebrov and others throughout the Cup, but this matchup is the toughest of them all.

Cannavaro marking Henry will be one of the best matchups of the entire tournament. Cannavaro has marked Miroslav Klose, Lukas Podolski, Andriy Shevchenko and Mark Viduka in the knockout stages, nullifying all of them while anchoring a fantastic defense.

Thuram and Gallas marking Luca Toni will be critical for France. Toni is dangerous in the air and on the floor, so they will have to be at their best. These two shut down Ronaldo, Pauleta, Fernando Torres and Sebastian Frei, so they have proven their worth in this Cup.

Makelele and Vieira against Francesco Totti is alarmingly similar to Pirlo and Gattuso marking Zidane. Totti is a world-class talent with skills identical to Zidane. He hurt his reputation after spitting on a Danish player in the Euro 2004 tournament, but still has the highest level of ability in the world. But Makelele is the best defensive midfielder in the world, making him more than capable of marking Totti. And with the help of world-class Vieira, the French defensive midfield should be hard to beat.

The French are riding a great run by aging stars Zidane, Thuram, Makelele and Vieira, hoping to make one last splash before they ride off into the sunset. After a scoreless, embarrassing 2002 World Cup, they are searching for the ultimate redemption.

The Italians are playing for former teammate and Italian soccer celebrity Gianluca Pessotto, who is in critical condition in a Turin, Italy hospital. They are also seeking revenge after losing the Euro 2000 final to the French. The Italians are battling a major betting and match-fixing scandal back home, making their run to the final a breath of fresh air for many Italian soccer supporters.

I like the French in this match, if only because it's the romantic choice. They have the story of Zidane riding off as a legend, etc. But I think the match will go to penalties, and the Italians just don't have the luck or the experienced players to win a penalty shootout on this stage.

France wins in penalties after a 1-1 draw through 120 minutes.

THE JEFF GREER WORLD CUP 2006 AWARDS

Best Player-- Fabio Cannavaro: Central defender for Italy led the best defense in the Cup, all while playing without his partner in crime, Alessandro Nesta.

Best Young Player-- Robin Van Persie: Attacking midfielder for Holland made a serious case for some new money after igniting the Dutch attack in the group stages. His free-kick goal against the Ivory Coast was one of the goals of the tournament.

All-Cup Team:
GK Gianliugi Buffon (Italy)
D Fabio Cannavaro (Italy)
D Lilian Thuram (France)
D Fabio Grosso (Italy)
D Philip Lahm (Germany)
M Zinedine Zidane (France)
M Andrea Pirlo (Italy)
M Robin Van Persie (Holland)
M Steven Gerrard (England)
M Franck Ribery (France)
F Miroslav Klose (Germany)

La Copa Mundial: Knockout Stages!

Sixteen teams. Knockout stage: Win or go home. Ninety minutes. If scoreless, 30 more minutes. If still tied, five penalty shots each, winner takes all.

Two teams. Two goals. One ball. One chance. This is it.

Eight matches occupy the computer screen. It's time to break down the 16 teams, their matchups and their chances.

First things first:

June 24 -- Kickoff 11 a.m. EST
Germany vs. Sweden
This match will be free-flowing and exciting. Both teams showed their preference to push the envelope, attacking the majority of the game while putting constant pressure defensively on their opponents. Both teams like to stiffle counterattacks in their opponents' half of the field; in other words, they will try to force their game on the other team, maintaining possession and a consistent potency.

If we break down each team statistically, this match's prediction would be easy to figure out: Germany won all three of their Group Stage matches; Sweden was just 1-0-2. Germany scored eight goals while conceding just two. In fact, they shut out their last two opponents. Sweden scored a meager three goals after tallying 30 goals in 10 matches in qualifying. The Swedes allowed two goals.

Players to Watch: Whenever Germany plays, it's always Klose and Ballack. For Sweden, see if Ibrahimovic has any impact in his return. Also, watch Larsson and Ljungberg.

Styles of Play: Germany -- Possession with great technical skill; attacking; height and power in attack as well as defense; attacks come from wings or up the middle, they are quite potent.
Sweden -- Possession team with flair and excitable speed; lots of fancy movement, runs and passing; attacking at all times; speed and skill are main attributes of Swedes.

Germany wins this game, 2-1. What gave it away? Germany will be at home, in extremely hot weather and they are on fire, figuratively of course.

June 24 -- Kickoff 3 p.m. EST
Argentina vs. Mexico
This match, on the cover, appears to be a formidable one -- pitting two quality Latin teams against each other on the world's biggest stage.

But Mexico has played very poorly in this World Cup, exposing their bloated world ranking. They barely made the second round in a group that featured two 99-percent-positive-they-should-walk-through-this-game-and-win type matches against Angola and Iran.

It's hard to really gauge Argentina after they played two odd matches. Against Serbia & Montenegro, S & M just gave up. Argentina had a training match and a field day against them. So that wasn't really a challenge. The Holland match featured two teams already in the next round, cautiously playing for first place in the group.

Players to Watch: Juan Roman Riquelme and Javior Saviola for Argentina. For Mexico, Rafael Marquez and Raul Bravo.

Styles of Play: Argentina -- Possession with flair, determination and persistent attacking; lots of diagonal runs into space, good through balls, plenty of goals from passes on the ground; tons of individual, on-ball skill; lots of dribbling; smart defending.
Mexico -- Long ball attacks; quick counterattacks; height on free kicks and corners; good running ability, plenty of stamina; comfortable knocking the ball around midfield to control game's pace; great defending.

Argentina wins 2-0. What gave it away? The Mexicans just haven't played very well at the World Cup and Argentina is more explosive than ever. They will possess the ball and assault the Mexican defense.

June 25 -- Kickoff 11 a.m. EST
England vs. Ecuador
England will have Wayne Rooney playing full tilt, without Michael Owen competing for the title of "The Man." David Beckham expressed his frustration over his performance in the Sweden match and should show up guns ablaze in this match.

Ecuador sat their two on-fire strikers and will be looking to rectify their surprise image after their 3-0 destruction by the Germans. This might be a better match than people think.

Players to Watch: Of course Wayne Rooney, but also Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard in the midfield. For Ecuador, Carlos Tenorio and Agustin Delgado.

Styles of Play: England -- Possession with technical preference; strong midfield, probably the best at the World Cup; solid in defense; mixture of service passing, lofting long, high balls or short passes into the box.
Ecuador -- Attacking style with over-the-top balls to their dynamic forwards; shaky in defense; great speed; can score from the air or from the ground; lots of flair and creativity in attack.

England wins 2-1. What gave it away? England has a strong midfield and a better defense than any of Ecuador's opponents in the first round. Rooney should get a goal in this match.

June 25 -- Kickoff 3 p.m. EST
Portugal vs. Holland
Portugal hasn't played any good teams yet, and they don't have the defense to deal with Holland's three-headed monster of Robben, Van Nistelrooy and Van Persie.

Holland looked great the whole Group Stage, playing poorly only for about 20 minutes in the Ivory Coast match (remember, at the end when Ivory Coast pounded the Dutch to no avail?).

Players to Watch: The wingers for Holland: Robben and Van Persie. Cristiano Ronaldo and Simao for Portugal.

Holland in penalties. What gave it away? This will be a good match. But Holland looked better in the first round, even though the Portuguese were two points better. In penalties, I like Edwin van Der Sar over Ricardo.

So, to recap: Germany over Sweden 2-1, Argentina over Mexico 2-0, England over Ecuador 2-0 and Holland over Portugal in penalties. The rest of the previews will come Sunday.