In my previous blog, I was 2-0 straight up and 1-1 against the spread. New England dominated Indianapolis with flat footballs. Seattle kicked it around until pulling the game out against Green Bay with a late rally. A lot had to go right for the Seahawks to reach the Super Bowl for the second straight season and ol' Lady Luck was with them.
Late Saturday afternoon, Sunday's big game was listed as a pick-em with an O/U of 47.
New England has spent more than week hearing about how it cheats and how it is an evil empire. It seems the entire country is pulling against the Patriots because the Patriots find ways to win and win a lot. Earlier this season, the Patriots were written off as old and finished. Now, New England is getting the last laugh.
I personally believe Deflate-gate was much ado about nothing. Other pro teams do it, college teams do it, high school teams do it. If the balls were missing that much air, why didn't the officials who handle the balls during the game notice the difference? As long as the ball isn't flat play on.
While Deflate-gate deflected a lot of other attention on New England, Marshawn Lynch did the deflect job for Seattle. All the media could talk and write about the week before the game was Lynch's childish antics at the press conference. Lynch may be one of the most talented running backs in the game, but he is also the game's biggest jerk.
Tom Brady is at the top of his game. If Seattle can't get pressure on him, Brady will dominate the game.
Russell Wilson survived a shaky effort in the NFC Championship Game to go another shot at a world title. Wilson is more mobile than Brady, but he also is more inconsistent.
Seattle's biggest problem is in the secondary three of the four members of the Legion of Boom are banged up. Three of the four -- Kam Chancellor (knee), Earl Thomas (separated shoulder), and Richard Sherman (elbow ligaments) -- are suffering from injuries.
I think Seattle's secondary issues will be the difference in the game. Brady will take advantage of the situation.
Take the Patriots and the over.
Clemson Hoops Continues Improvement
Clemson head coach Brad Brownell continues to amaze with the work he is doing. Last week, the Tigers won their second ACC road game at N.C. State then came home and took care of Boston College to improve to 13-8 overall and 5-4 in the ACC.
The Tigers have received a kick start from junior guard Jordan Roper, who earned a starting spot in practice and then took advantage by averaging 21 points per game against State and BC. Jordan's ability to hit some 3-point baskets has made a major positive impact for Clemson's struggling offense.
Clemson played its finest half of the season at State and built a 21-point lead before allowing the Wolfpack to get within three points in the second half. But the Tigers showed some toughness and poise to pull away for a 68-57 victory over the Pack.
Clemson plays at Florida State and at Miami this week before returning home to face Notre Dame on Feb. 10. Poor free throw shooting cost Clemson the first meeting against Florida State. A split would be good. A two-game sweep would start a big buzz before the Irish come to town.
Is Tiger Woods Finished?
I have been thinking for two years that Tiger Woods would find "it" again. As I write this Saturday afternoon, Woods looks done. Finished. In the tank. The some of the shots he hit on Friday on his way to a career-high 82 were shocking. Woods looked like a 21-handicapper playing at a muni on a Sunday afternoon.
In his seeking of perfection, Woods has lost everything he ever had. He can't hit a fairway. He can't chip. He can't putt. He has reached rock bottom.
Where does he go from here? He should go back to Butch Harmon, but Harmon won't take him back. If he is ever going to be a factor on PGA Tour again, Woods will have to swallow some pride and ask for some help. The problems aren't just physical anymore. Snakes have gotten into his head, and those snakes are difficult to exterminate.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Friday, January 16, 2015
Seahawks, Patriots Will Meet In Super Bowl
On Divisional weekend, I was 3-1 straight up and 2-2 against the spread. That half point in the Packers-Cowboys game turned out to be painful.
Was it a catch? Yes, I think Dez Bryant should have gotten credit for making a catch. But by rule, the officials were correct. Since this call was against the Cowboys and Jerry Jones, I expect the NFL Competition Committee to make changes in the off season. It is a stupid rule.
I wiffed badly on the National Championship game. I had Oregon both ways and took the over. Wrong, wrong, and wrong. Ohio State was just too powerful for Oregon. The Buckeyes dominated the line of scrimmage and earned the title. I am a big fan of the four-team playoff. Now, I want eight teams and I think we will be good to go for a while.
The new playoff system was a big hit with college football fans. More than 22 million watched the two semifinal games and more than 33 million watched the National Championship game.
Let's take a look at Sunday's Conference Championship games:
Green Bay at Seattle (-7.0)
Much like the Carolina-Seattle game, I believe this game is a gift. Seattle is tough at home. I love Aaron Rogers but that calf injury is really bothering him. Seattle will be extremely aggressive defensively with the idea of making him move. If the Seahawks allow Rogers to stand in the pocket, he could cause some problems. But I think Rogers will be on the run, or on the limp, most of the game. Take Seattle and give the points.
Indianapolis at New England (-6.5)
The Colts suffocated the Broncos and Peyton Manning to earn a trip to New England. The pundits who declared Tom Brady and the Patriots dead in the water in early September must be feeling pretty stupid right now. I like Andrew Luck. I think he's got all of the tools you want in an NFL quarterback. But Brady is Brady. He not only has the accuracy, but he has the intangibles. At times, he wills his team to victory. New England will win and cover.
Clemson hoops returns home:
The Tigers finished a brutal road trip 1-2, losing at No. 5 Louisville and No. 2 Virginia. But progress was made in the three games. The Tigers are way ahead of where they were after the home loss to North Carolina on Jan. 3. They hung with Virginia for a half, but a lack of offense in the second half allowed the Cavaliers to turn a defensive game into a blowout. Virginia is the real deal. The Cavaliers guard as well as anybody in the country, and they are efficient on the offensive end.
Clemson's best performance of the season to date came at Pittsburgh, a place where the Tigers lost by 33 last year. The Tigers were 8-for-18 from behind the arc. The game is a whole lot easier when you make shots. The other positive factor in the Pitt game was the bench, which produced 23 points.
The Tigers open a three-game home stand against Syracuse Saturday afternoon. The Orange are known for their zone defense. That's all they play. That means the Tigers will have to make some outside shots and their interior passing will have to be a whole lot crisper. Trying to feed the post in the Virginia game, the Tigers committed several silly turnovers.
There should be a crowd at the Syracuse game because there will be football recruits in the house and the bowl trophy will be presented at halftime. Hopefully, the Clemson "fans" will stay for the second half.
Story of the Week, Possibly The Year:
In case you missed it, NASCAR driver Kurt Busch says his ex-girlfriend Patricia Driscoll is a trained assassin.
Yes, you read that correctly. Busch says she has traveled the world taking people out. He says she left the trailer one night in camo and returned in a trench coat and wearing a blood-soaked dress.
Just when you think you've heard it all.
If you think your significant other is a trained assassin, why would you even think about having an altercation with her? If she can take out drug lords and kingpins, she certainly can take you out and make it look like an accident.
This story brings the James Bond element into NASCAR, which might add to the excitement especially in the plate races. Intentional oil slicks, intentional smoke screens, driver ejector seats, machine guns on the cars, exploding lug nuts, snipers shooting out tires, trap doors on the track. NASCAR czar Mike Helton will no longer go by his name just a letter -- H. Imagine the excitement and intrigue and the increase in ticket sales.
Kurt is not a fan favorite, which means if his ex made him "disappear" there would be more celebrating than disappointment.
Was it a catch? Yes, I think Dez Bryant should have gotten credit for making a catch. But by rule, the officials were correct. Since this call was against the Cowboys and Jerry Jones, I expect the NFL Competition Committee to make changes in the off season. It is a stupid rule.
I wiffed badly on the National Championship game. I had Oregon both ways and took the over. Wrong, wrong, and wrong. Ohio State was just too powerful for Oregon. The Buckeyes dominated the line of scrimmage and earned the title. I am a big fan of the four-team playoff. Now, I want eight teams and I think we will be good to go for a while.
The new playoff system was a big hit with college football fans. More than 22 million watched the two semifinal games and more than 33 million watched the National Championship game.
Let's take a look at Sunday's Conference Championship games:
Green Bay at Seattle (-7.0)
Much like the Carolina-Seattle game, I believe this game is a gift. Seattle is tough at home. I love Aaron Rogers but that calf injury is really bothering him. Seattle will be extremely aggressive defensively with the idea of making him move. If the Seahawks allow Rogers to stand in the pocket, he could cause some problems. But I think Rogers will be on the run, or on the limp, most of the game. Take Seattle and give the points.
Indianapolis at New England (-6.5)
The Colts suffocated the Broncos and Peyton Manning to earn a trip to New England. The pundits who declared Tom Brady and the Patriots dead in the water in early September must be feeling pretty stupid right now. I like Andrew Luck. I think he's got all of the tools you want in an NFL quarterback. But Brady is Brady. He not only has the accuracy, but he has the intangibles. At times, he wills his team to victory. New England will win and cover.
Clemson hoops returns home:
The Tigers finished a brutal road trip 1-2, losing at No. 5 Louisville and No. 2 Virginia. But progress was made in the three games. The Tigers are way ahead of where they were after the home loss to North Carolina on Jan. 3. They hung with Virginia for a half, but a lack of offense in the second half allowed the Cavaliers to turn a defensive game into a blowout. Virginia is the real deal. The Cavaliers guard as well as anybody in the country, and they are efficient on the offensive end.
Clemson's best performance of the season to date came at Pittsburgh, a place where the Tigers lost by 33 last year. The Tigers were 8-for-18 from behind the arc. The game is a whole lot easier when you make shots. The other positive factor in the Pitt game was the bench, which produced 23 points.
The Tigers open a three-game home stand against Syracuse Saturday afternoon. The Orange are known for their zone defense. That's all they play. That means the Tigers will have to make some outside shots and their interior passing will have to be a whole lot crisper. Trying to feed the post in the Virginia game, the Tigers committed several silly turnovers.
There should be a crowd at the Syracuse game because there will be football recruits in the house and the bowl trophy will be presented at halftime. Hopefully, the Clemson "fans" will stay for the second half.
Story of the Week, Possibly The Year:
In case you missed it, NASCAR driver Kurt Busch says his ex-girlfriend Patricia Driscoll is a trained assassin.
Yes, you read that correctly. Busch says she has traveled the world taking people out. He says she left the trailer one night in camo and returned in a trench coat and wearing a blood-soaked dress.
Just when you think you've heard it all.
If you think your significant other is a trained assassin, why would you even think about having an altercation with her? If she can take out drug lords and kingpins, she certainly can take you out and make it look like an accident.
This story brings the James Bond element into NASCAR, which might add to the excitement especially in the plate races. Intentional oil slicks, intentional smoke screens, driver ejector seats, machine guns on the cars, exploding lug nuts, snipers shooting out tires, trap doors on the track. NASCAR czar Mike Helton will no longer go by his name just a letter -- H. Imagine the excitement and intrigue and the increase in ticket sales.
Kurt is not a fan favorite, which means if his ex made him "disappear" there would be more celebrating than disappointment.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Let's Venture Into The NFL, Ducks Will Take Title
Let's take a quick look at this week's NFL Playoff games:
Saturday
Baltimore at New England (-7.0)
Baltimore won a tough game at Pittsburgh to get the trip to New England. The Patriots were pronounced dead in the water early in the season, but as long as Tom Brady is playing the Patriots will be a difficult challenge. I think New England will win, but I do not think they will cover the seven.
Carolina at Seattle (-10.5)
I think this is the gimme of the weekend. I just don't believe in Carolina. Seattle has the best home field advantage in pro football. This will be over early because Seattle's offense is much better than Carolina's offense. Take the Seahawks both ways.
Sunday
Dallas at Green Bay (-5.5)
Ice Bowl 2? Dallas benefited from the worse call/no call in the history of pro football last weekend. It will take more than the refs to save them in frigid Green Bay. The elements will definitely be a factor. The Packers' defense is suspect, but I don't and never have believed in Tony Romo, especially in a big game. And his is a big game. Bad news for Jerry Jones -- the Cowboys lose. Good news for Jerry Jones -- no hugs from Chris Christie. Take the Packers to cover.
Indianapolis at Denver (-7.0)
Young gunslinger vs. old gunslinger. Peyton Manning is missing something. Can he find it before Andrew Luck and the Colts get to town? I think so. Take the Broncos both ways.
Monday
National Championship Game
Ohio State vs. Oregon (-6.0)
The spread has been dropping, but I still believe the difference in the game is going to be the speed of Oregon's offense and the play of Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota. Ohio State's magical run comes to an end. Take the Ducks to cover.
Quick Takes
-- I don't know what NIKE was thinking when they designed Oregon's national championship game uniform. The Ducks are usually clad in green, neon yellow, silver, etc. Monday night's uniforms are black and gray. Not a hint of green or yellow. Oregon is selling it by saying the uniform is business-like. If I were a Duck fan, I would have a fear of messing with the mojo.
-- The Clemson men's basketball team, after an awful effort in its ACC opener against North Carolina, bounced back with a gritty effort at No. 5 Louisville. The Tigers, 16-point underdogs, led 22-18 at the half. Louisville dominated the opening minutes of the second half with a 17-0 run to take a 35-22 lead. It looked as if the Tigers were headed for their second straight blowout loss. But Clemson put together a methodical rally and actually cut the deficit to two points late in the game before finally falling, 58-52. The biggest problem -- lack of any type of scoring inside. Landry Nnoko has become the invisible man. Second biggest problem -- Can't make a jump shot, long or mid-range. The Tigers are getting shots. They just can't make them.
-- I think I am going to start a pool. Name the date and time remaining in the game when Gabe DeVoe finally scores a point for the Tigers. One of the biggest mysteries to me this season has been DeVoe. He averaged more than 30 points per game in high school, but he is 0-for-Clemson. How does that happen?
Saturday
Baltimore at New England (-7.0)
Baltimore won a tough game at Pittsburgh to get the trip to New England. The Patriots were pronounced dead in the water early in the season, but as long as Tom Brady is playing the Patriots will be a difficult challenge. I think New England will win, but I do not think they will cover the seven.
Carolina at Seattle (-10.5)
I think this is the gimme of the weekend. I just don't believe in Carolina. Seattle has the best home field advantage in pro football. This will be over early because Seattle's offense is much better than Carolina's offense. Take the Seahawks both ways.
Sunday
Dallas at Green Bay (-5.5)
Ice Bowl 2? Dallas benefited from the worse call/no call in the history of pro football last weekend. It will take more than the refs to save them in frigid Green Bay. The elements will definitely be a factor. The Packers' defense is suspect, but I don't and never have believed in Tony Romo, especially in a big game. And his is a big game. Bad news for Jerry Jones -- the Cowboys lose. Good news for Jerry Jones -- no hugs from Chris Christie. Take the Packers to cover.
Indianapolis at Denver (-7.0)
Young gunslinger vs. old gunslinger. Peyton Manning is missing something. Can he find it before Andrew Luck and the Colts get to town? I think so. Take the Broncos both ways.
Monday
National Championship Game
Ohio State vs. Oregon (-6.0)
The spread has been dropping, but I still believe the difference in the game is going to be the speed of Oregon's offense and the play of Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota. Ohio State's magical run comes to an end. Take the Ducks to cover.
Quick Takes
-- I don't know what NIKE was thinking when they designed Oregon's national championship game uniform. The Ducks are usually clad in green, neon yellow, silver, etc. Monday night's uniforms are black and gray. Not a hint of green or yellow. Oregon is selling it by saying the uniform is business-like. If I were a Duck fan, I would have a fear of messing with the mojo.
-- The Clemson men's basketball team, after an awful effort in its ACC opener against North Carolina, bounced back with a gritty effort at No. 5 Louisville. The Tigers, 16-point underdogs, led 22-18 at the half. Louisville dominated the opening minutes of the second half with a 17-0 run to take a 35-22 lead. It looked as if the Tigers were headed for their second straight blowout loss. But Clemson put together a methodical rally and actually cut the deficit to two points late in the game before finally falling, 58-52. The biggest problem -- lack of any type of scoring inside. Landry Nnoko has become the invisible man. Second biggest problem -- Can't make a jump shot, long or mid-range. The Tigers are getting shots. They just can't make them.
-- I think I am going to start a pool. Name the date and time remaining in the game when Gabe DeVoe finally scores a point for the Tigers. One of the biggest mysteries to me this season has been DeVoe. He averaged more than 30 points per game in high school, but he is 0-for-Clemson. How does that happen?
Monday, January 5, 2015
Final Tally, Too Many Tar Holes
Final Tally
I split the final two bowl games to finish 16-12 straight up, 14-14 against the spread.
I will give you my thoughts on the Oregon-Ohio State game before next Monday.
Too Many Tar Holes
North Carolina beat Clemson in basketball last Saturday night. That's not an earth-shattering event because it has happened a lot.
Sure, the loss was disappointing. But the biggest disappointment was in the stands. Clemson had no home court advantage because some Clemson fans thought it was a good idea to put their tickets on line so the Tar Hole fans could gobble them up.
There was baby blue everywhere you looked. There was a lot of baby blue in the season ticket area and even some on the front row. That should never happen. Whoever allowed it to happen, should have their season tickets revoked.
The lunatic fringe is against rebuilding Littlejohn. They see it as a waste of money. They also were against the building of the West End Zone and the indoor football practice facility. The West End Zone and indoor practice facility have had no impact on recruiting (biting my lip trying not to laugh).
It's the same deal with basketball. Top-flight recruits come to Clemson and leave laughing. Clemson basketball doesn't have any bells and whistles. Compared to the rest of the ACC, Clemson is taking a pocket knife to an AK-47 shootout. Got no chance. None.
Next season is going to be tough because the Tigers are going to play in Greenville and practice at some place to be determined.
The point is -- Brad Brownell needs some time. This year, next year, and two years after that. If there is no progress after that or the program has declined, then make a change. But don't tie one of his hands behind his back and expect him to compete in the toughest basketball league in the country.
Clemson has never been a consistent winner in basketball because there hasn't been a commitment from the school or the fans. The school is getting ready to make a major commitment. The fans need to get "All In" too. If you are a "fan" and you don't like the style, then don't go to the games. That leaves space for a new fan to develop, someone who can appreciate the effort Brownell is putting into the program. There certainly was no problem with the style when the Tigers made their run in the NIT last spring.
I remember when I first started going to Clemson basketball games, the Tigers had less talent than the rest of the ACC and played a defensive style under Tates Locke. But Littlejohn was a pit and sometimes, not all of the time, the home court made a difference. I remember coming out of Littlejohn with my ears ringing because the noise level reached jet-plane levels during the game.
Fans don't want to hear it, but Clemson is a tough basketball job. There's a story about an African-American assistant coach who was asked a few years ago if he was interested in being the head basketball coach at Clemson. He shook his head and said he would rather have an STD than be the head coach Clemson.
Next up for the Tigers is Louisville at Louisville on Wednesday night, the Cardinals' ACC home opener. Most of the time, the ACC road can be cruel. This is one of those times.
I split the final two bowl games to finish 16-12 straight up, 14-14 against the spread.
I will give you my thoughts on the Oregon-Ohio State game before next Monday.
Too Many Tar Holes
North Carolina beat Clemson in basketball last Saturday night. That's not an earth-shattering event because it has happened a lot.
Sure, the loss was disappointing. But the biggest disappointment was in the stands. Clemson had no home court advantage because some Clemson fans thought it was a good idea to put their tickets on line so the Tar Hole fans could gobble them up.
There was baby blue everywhere you looked. There was a lot of baby blue in the season ticket area and even some on the front row. That should never happen. Whoever allowed it to happen, should have their season tickets revoked.
The lunatic fringe is against rebuilding Littlejohn. They see it as a waste of money. They also were against the building of the West End Zone and the indoor football practice facility. The West End Zone and indoor practice facility have had no impact on recruiting (biting my lip trying not to laugh).
It's the same deal with basketball. Top-flight recruits come to Clemson and leave laughing. Clemson basketball doesn't have any bells and whistles. Compared to the rest of the ACC, Clemson is taking a pocket knife to an AK-47 shootout. Got no chance. None.
Next season is going to be tough because the Tigers are going to play in Greenville and practice at some place to be determined.
The point is -- Brad Brownell needs some time. This year, next year, and two years after that. If there is no progress after that or the program has declined, then make a change. But don't tie one of his hands behind his back and expect him to compete in the toughest basketball league in the country.
Clemson has never been a consistent winner in basketball because there hasn't been a commitment from the school or the fans. The school is getting ready to make a major commitment. The fans need to get "All In" too. If you are a "fan" and you don't like the style, then don't go to the games. That leaves space for a new fan to develop, someone who can appreciate the effort Brownell is putting into the program. There certainly was no problem with the style when the Tigers made their run in the NIT last spring.
I remember when I first started going to Clemson basketball games, the Tigers had less talent than the rest of the ACC and played a defensive style under Tates Locke. But Littlejohn was a pit and sometimes, not all of the time, the home court made a difference. I remember coming out of Littlejohn with my ears ringing because the noise level reached jet-plane levels during the game.
Fans don't want to hear it, but Clemson is a tough basketball job. There's a story about an African-American assistant coach who was asked a few years ago if he was interested in being the head basketball coach at Clemson. He shook his head and said he would rather have an STD than be the head coach Clemson.
Next up for the Tigers is Louisville at Louisville on Wednesday night, the Cardinals' ACC home opener. Most of the time, the ACC road can be cruel. This is one of those times.
Friday, January 2, 2015
Don't Look Ethel. It Was Too Late.
What was the number of that truck? Wow, what an awful day. Wisconsin rose up, Baylor had a playoff hangover, Missouri was better than expected, Oregon ran wild over disorganized Florida State, and the best third-team quarterback I've ever seen led Ohio State to a victory over the Evil Tide Empire.
Yes, I took the doughnut. Goose egg. Nada. Zilch. I guess I should try out for a revival of Leonard's Losers.
After the carnage Thursday, my record stands at 11-11 straight up and 9-13 against the spread.
The only thing remaining is junk bowls. It is my opinion the only game that should be played after Jan. 1 in the National Championship game.
There are four games Friday, one Saturday, and one Sunday. Nobody cares, but I'm going to make selections anyway because I like the pain. Feel free to go in the opposite direction of my selections. You have my permission.
Friday, Jan. 2
Armed Forces Bowl -- Houston vs. Pittsburgh (-3.5)
These two programs are in transition. Houston has scored 31 or more points in three of its last four games. Take the Cougars and the points.
Taxslayer Bowl -- Iowa vs. Tennessee (-3.0)
I liked this bowl better when it was the Gator Bowl. Butch Jones has Tennessee moving in the right direction, and the Vols have SEC speed (LOL). Take the Vols and give the points.
Alamo Bowl -- Kansas State vs. UCLA (-1.5)
This looks like way too good of a game to be scheduled for Jan. 2. I think the Bruins will be too much for the Wildcats. Take UCLA and give the points.
Cactus Bowl -- Oklahoma State vs. Washington (-6.0)
Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy made an unusual move late in the season when he took the redshirt off of freshman quarterback Mason Rudolph, a native of Rock Hill, S.C. Rudolph has played well and led the Cowboys to an upset of Oklahoma in Norman. It has been a tough year in Stillwater, but I believe the Pokes picked up some late-season momentum in Norman. Take Okie State and the points.
Record Friday was perfect 4-0 both ways. Overall record through Friday -- 15-11 straight up, 13-13 against the spread.
Saturday, Jan. 3
Birmingham Bowl -- East Carolina vs. Florida (-7.0)
How did Florida even get to a bowl game? The Pirates can score. Give me East Carolina and the points.
Sunday, Jan. 4
GoDaddy Bowl -- Arkansas State vs. Toledo (-4.0)
I am beyond caring at this point. I just hope Danica Patrick makes a personal appearance. Ride the Rockets.
Some Thoughts On Clemson Basketball --
Several years ago during the days of Cliff Ellis, my friend Mark Packer coined a term -- "0-for-Snow." In other words, no wins in January and February. Clemson basketball would dominate its weak competition in November and December then hit the ACC schedule and start a long losing streak.
Clemson enters ACC play Saturday night at home against North Carolina. The Tigers have some good wins (Arkansas, LSU) and some bad losses (Winthrop, Gardner-Webb). The most disturbing thing about this team is its lack of improvement the first two months of the season. Since mid-November, this team has played the same way game in and game out. This team lacks a vocal leader, which means there is some passion and emotion missing.
There are major problems -- lack of outside shooting (a Clemson standard), poor free throw shooting (a Clemson standard), sloppy turnovers, lack of punch from the bench, inability to hold a lead late in the game. Head coach Brad Brownell is pushing every button he can, but the response has been limited. It is easy to see during the games that Brownell is extremely frustrated with his team.
Jaron Blossomgame and Donte Grantham are starting to make major impacts on both ends of the floor and look like an effective duo in development. But that's about the only positive. Point guard Rod Hall is not playing like a senior, and there is nobody on the bench who can help at point. The Tigers really need Landry Nnoko to start playing like he played late last season.
The first five ACC games will pose a brutal gauntlet for the Tigers -- North Carolina at home, at Louisville, at Pittsburgh, at Virginia, Syracuse at home. Thank you, John Swofford. Winning two of those would be a major accomplishment. Most pundits believe 0-for-5 is more likely.
Maybe entering ACC play will energize the Tigers and end their sleepwalking. It is way past time to get over K.J. McDaniels leaving for the NBA.
Here's hoping the Tigers can put something together. But at the moment, it doesn't look good.
Yes, I took the doughnut. Goose egg. Nada. Zilch. I guess I should try out for a revival of Leonard's Losers.
After the carnage Thursday, my record stands at 11-11 straight up and 9-13 against the spread.
The only thing remaining is junk bowls. It is my opinion the only game that should be played after Jan. 1 in the National Championship game.
There are four games Friday, one Saturday, and one Sunday. Nobody cares, but I'm going to make selections anyway because I like the pain. Feel free to go in the opposite direction of my selections. You have my permission.
Friday, Jan. 2
Armed Forces Bowl -- Houston vs. Pittsburgh (-3.5)
These two programs are in transition. Houston has scored 31 or more points in three of its last four games. Take the Cougars and the points.
Taxslayer Bowl -- Iowa vs. Tennessee (-3.0)
I liked this bowl better when it was the Gator Bowl. Butch Jones has Tennessee moving in the right direction, and the Vols have SEC speed (LOL). Take the Vols and give the points.
Alamo Bowl -- Kansas State vs. UCLA (-1.5)
This looks like way too good of a game to be scheduled for Jan. 2. I think the Bruins will be too much for the Wildcats. Take UCLA and give the points.
Cactus Bowl -- Oklahoma State vs. Washington (-6.0)
Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy made an unusual move late in the season when he took the redshirt off of freshman quarterback Mason Rudolph, a native of Rock Hill, S.C. Rudolph has played well and led the Cowboys to an upset of Oklahoma in Norman. It has been a tough year in Stillwater, but I believe the Pokes picked up some late-season momentum in Norman. Take Okie State and the points.
Record Friday was perfect 4-0 both ways. Overall record through Friday -- 15-11 straight up, 13-13 against the spread.
Saturday, Jan. 3
Birmingham Bowl -- East Carolina vs. Florida (-7.0)
How did Florida even get to a bowl game? The Pirates can score. Give me East Carolina and the points.
Sunday, Jan. 4
GoDaddy Bowl -- Arkansas State vs. Toledo (-4.0)
I am beyond caring at this point. I just hope Danica Patrick makes a personal appearance. Ride the Rockets.
Some Thoughts On Clemson Basketball --
Several years ago during the days of Cliff Ellis, my friend Mark Packer coined a term -- "0-for-Snow." In other words, no wins in January and February. Clemson basketball would dominate its weak competition in November and December then hit the ACC schedule and start a long losing streak.
Clemson enters ACC play Saturday night at home against North Carolina. The Tigers have some good wins (Arkansas, LSU) and some bad losses (Winthrop, Gardner-Webb). The most disturbing thing about this team is its lack of improvement the first two months of the season. Since mid-November, this team has played the same way game in and game out. This team lacks a vocal leader, which means there is some passion and emotion missing.
There are major problems -- lack of outside shooting (a Clemson standard), poor free throw shooting (a Clemson standard), sloppy turnovers, lack of punch from the bench, inability to hold a lead late in the game. Head coach Brad Brownell is pushing every button he can, but the response has been limited. It is easy to see during the games that Brownell is extremely frustrated with his team.
Jaron Blossomgame and Donte Grantham are starting to make major impacts on both ends of the floor and look like an effective duo in development. But that's about the only positive. Point guard Rod Hall is not playing like a senior, and there is nobody on the bench who can help at point. The Tigers really need Landry Nnoko to start playing like he played late last season.
The first five ACC games will pose a brutal gauntlet for the Tigers -- North Carolina at home, at Louisville, at Pittsburgh, at Virginia, Syracuse at home. Thank you, John Swofford. Winning two of those would be a major accomplishment. Most pundits believe 0-for-5 is more likely.
Maybe entering ACC play will energize the Tigers and end their sleepwalking. It is way past time to get over K.J. McDaniels leaving for the NBA.
Here's hoping the Tigers can put something together. But at the moment, it doesn't look good.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
New Year's Day Is Finally Here
Nailed two of three yesterday to improve my record to 11-6 straight up and 9-8 against the spread.
The Mississippi Burning that took place yesterday was a big hit for the SEC. The SEC West was billed as the toughest division in football outside of the NFL. Thanks to TCU and Georgia Tech, the SEC West has been exposed.
I am so happy today is New Year's Day. This will be the final day ESPN reminds us over and over and over that the Rose Bowl and the Sugar Bowl are being played today.
Let's quickly look at today's selections:
Outback Bowl -- Wisconsin vs. Auburn (-7)
Can Wisconsin recover from its no-show effort in the Big 10 Championship game? Can Auburn put something together after getting hammered by Georgia and Alabama? I hate the term SEC speed, but I think it makes a difference in this game. Take Auburn and give the points.
Cotton Bowl -- Michigan State vs. Baylor (-2.5)
The pundits raved about Baylor last season, and Bears promptly got upset by Central Florida in the Fiesta Bowl. Michigan State is about defense first. Playing in Dallas at Jerry World, I am sensing a statement game from the Bears. If the Bears rout the Spartans, the committee will get some well deserved criticism for not including Baylor or TCU in the four-team tournament. Take Baylor both ways.
Citrus Bowl -- Minnesota vs. Missouri (-4.5)
I look at this game and have no initial reaction. After thinking about it for a few seconds, I'm going to take the Golden Gophers and the points.
Rose Bowl Semifinal -- Florida State vs. Oregon (-8)
Nobody outside of Tallahassee believes in Florida State. The Seminoles have been sliding by the entire season. Some have called it playing bored. This is a rare match up of Heisman Trophy winners -- Florida State's Crab Leg King Jameis Winston vs. Oregon's dynamic Marcus Mariota. This looks like a shootout. It should be a shootout. I think it will be a shootout. Florida State has been on this stage before. Oregon has not. Eight is a lot of points. Most pundits believe the Ducks will roll. I don't. Take the Seminoles both ways.
Sugar Bowl Semifinal -- Ohio State vs. Alabama (-9)
Ohio State shocked the college football world by drilling Wisconsin in the Big 10 Championship game with third-team quarterback Cardale Jones at the helm. Alabama has just one blemish -- a loss to Ole Miss. Offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin has transformed the Tide offense. Kiffin said earlier this week that he would have worked in Tuscaloosa for free. Yeah, right. My evil side wants to see Ohio State pull off a miracle, rout the Tide, and cause an explosion at ESPN/SEC Lovers. But I just don't think it his going to happen. Nine is a lot of points, but take the Tide both ways.
The Mississippi Burning that took place yesterday was a big hit for the SEC. The SEC West was billed as the toughest division in football outside of the NFL. Thanks to TCU and Georgia Tech, the SEC West has been exposed.
I am so happy today is New Year's Day. This will be the final day ESPN reminds us over and over and over that the Rose Bowl and the Sugar Bowl are being played today.
Let's quickly look at today's selections:
Outback Bowl -- Wisconsin vs. Auburn (-7)
Can Wisconsin recover from its no-show effort in the Big 10 Championship game? Can Auburn put something together after getting hammered by Georgia and Alabama? I hate the term SEC speed, but I think it makes a difference in this game. Take Auburn and give the points.
Cotton Bowl -- Michigan State vs. Baylor (-2.5)
The pundits raved about Baylor last season, and Bears promptly got upset by Central Florida in the Fiesta Bowl. Michigan State is about defense first. Playing in Dallas at Jerry World, I am sensing a statement game from the Bears. If the Bears rout the Spartans, the committee will get some well deserved criticism for not including Baylor or TCU in the four-team tournament. Take Baylor both ways.
Citrus Bowl -- Minnesota vs. Missouri (-4.5)
I look at this game and have no initial reaction. After thinking about it for a few seconds, I'm going to take the Golden Gophers and the points.
Rose Bowl Semifinal -- Florida State vs. Oregon (-8)
Nobody outside of Tallahassee believes in Florida State. The Seminoles have been sliding by the entire season. Some have called it playing bored. This is a rare match up of Heisman Trophy winners -- Florida State's Crab Leg King Jameis Winston vs. Oregon's dynamic Marcus Mariota. This looks like a shootout. It should be a shootout. I think it will be a shootout. Florida State has been on this stage before. Oregon has not. Eight is a lot of points. Most pundits believe the Ducks will roll. I don't. Take the Seminoles both ways.
Sugar Bowl Semifinal -- Ohio State vs. Alabama (-9)
Ohio State shocked the college football world by drilling Wisconsin in the Big 10 Championship game with third-team quarterback Cardale Jones at the helm. Alabama has just one blemish -- a loss to Ole Miss. Offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin has transformed the Tide offense. Kiffin said earlier this week that he would have worked in Tuscaloosa for free. Yeah, right. My evil side wants to see Ohio State pull off a miracle, rout the Tide, and cause an explosion at ESPN/SEC Lovers. But I just don't think it his going to happen. Nine is a lot of points, but take the Tide both ways.
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