Okay, perhaps I got carried with that headline. However, it's difficult to downplay the final in the first major of the men's tennis season.
On one side of the court, you have Novak Djokovic, who was been nearly unstoppable in big matches the last few years. Sure, he only won one major title last season but it was in Melbourne where he will go for a Open era-record third straight championship. The days of Djokovic struggling with his fitness are a distant memory as the Serb has turned himself into a complete player.
At the other end, a confident Andy Murray will stand in Djokovic's way. Murray ended 2012 in grand fashion, capturing an Olympic singles gold medal and following that triumph with a U.S. Open title. With the proverbial monkey off of Murray's back, he will look to add to his trophy case in Australia. These two men have long been hailed as two of the top returners in the men's game and the stage is set for a classic match.
Djokovic is lethal from any part of the court, using his movement and quickness to get into position on almost every ball. Murray is capable of ripping his two-handed backhand anywhere he wants at will to quickly end points.
Novak dispelled any thought of vulnerability after a five-set epic victory over Stanislas Wawrinka in the round of 16 with two clutch wins over a pair of top-10 players in Tomas Berdych and David Ferrer. He quickly rebounded from the 22-game fifth set against Wawrinka to take out someone who can be dangerous in Berdych with a four-set win. Djokovic tossed aside Ferrer in straight sets to reach the final.
Murray breezed past Jeremy Chardy in straight sets in the quarters, ending the Frenchman's magical run in Melbourne before facing Roger Federer for a spot in the championship match. Federer was coming off of a win over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga that went the distance and pushed Murray to five sets in the semis.
Murray proved to be too strong on this occasion, prevailing 6-2 in the final set. The win was Murray's first over Federer at a Grand Slam tournament.
This will be the third straight year that Djokovic and Murray have met in Melbourne. Djokovic has won in each of the past two years, winning in straight sets in the 2011 final and surviving in five sets in last year's semifinal round.
Expect Murray to come out fighting and make Djokovic work for every point. It could go down as an instant classic between these two players at the top of their game. Djokovic has shown he can win in Melbourne, with three titles to his name in Rod Laver Arena and he should add a fourth in a tight match.
PREDICTION: Djokovic in four tight sets.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Sunday, June 17, 2012
The King of Clay Storms to Another Title
Like a championship boxer rebounding before the final bell, Rafael Nadal threw an uppercut to Novak Djokovic's chances to win a fourth consecutive Grand Slam, winning his seventh French Open title in four sets and ending talk of a "Novak Slam."
Djokovic was looking to become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to hold all four of tennis' major titles at the same time. Laver won each title in the same season, meaning Djokovic's run did not hold quite the same mystique but still dominated headlines. His quest may have even overshadowed Nadal's run for a record-setting title. Since Nadal is 222-9 on red clay since 2005, there was a sense that Nadal would be in contention for another title.
At least in the media's eyes, the near-invincibility of Rafael Nadal is Paris, shifted the pressure to squarely on Djokovic's shoulders. After a few years of playing third wheel to the intense rivalry between Roger Federer and Nadal, Djokovic turned the tables last year with one of the greatest single seasons in men's tennis history. With three Grand Slam titles in 2011, the rivalry shifted to Djokovic-Nadal, and these two have now met in four straight major finals.
After Nadal dismissed Djokovic in straight sets in Monte Carlo and Rome leading into Paris, the tennis world could sense the tables starting to turn toward the King of Clay on familiar soil.
With punishing topspin strokes, Nadal breezed through his opponents in quick fashion, winning every set heading into a much-anticipated clash with Djokovic who nearly lost on multiple occasions along the way.
Djokovic dropped the first two sets to Andreas Seppi, an Italian player who has been hanging consistently in the top 30. Finding his form in the third set, the Serbian battled back to win in five sets. Little did he know, perhaps a tougher test awaited him in the quarterfinals. With the French crowd cheering on countryman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Djokovic fiercely saved four match points to escape in five sets.
After two comeback wins, Federer to be an easy opponent by comparison, falling in straights to sets to Djokovic.
In a match steep in history, the world number one, Djokovic faced off against Nadal. Djokovic seemed lost in the first two sets, perhaps burdened by the possibility of winning four consecutive majors against Nadal and his vicious topspin, only accentuated by the red clay. After consistent rain, the court started to slow and the balls became heavier, meaning Nadal's high-bouncing balls were now landing directly in Djokovic's strike zone, enabling the Serbian to rebound, taking the third set 6-2, and leading the fourth set 2-1 before the match was postponed. With the court now dry and Nadal rested, the Spaniard quickly regained momentum, taking the clinching fourth set, 7-5.
As if Nadal needed any more evidence as to why he could be considered the greatest player on clay in men's tennis history, his seventh title at Roland Garros gave him sole possession of the record for most French Open titles, passing Bjorn Borg.
With just eight days until Wimbledon, the tennis world will now shift to London for an intriguing major where Roger Federer could potentially break through for another title to add to an impressive resume as arguably the greatest player to step on a tennis court.
Djokovic was looking to become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to hold all four of tennis' major titles at the same time. Laver won each title in the same season, meaning Djokovic's run did not hold quite the same mystique but still dominated headlines. His quest may have even overshadowed Nadal's run for a record-setting title. Since Nadal is 222-9 on red clay since 2005, there was a sense that Nadal would be in contention for another title.
At least in the media's eyes, the near-invincibility of Rafael Nadal is Paris, shifted the pressure to squarely on Djokovic's shoulders. After a few years of playing third wheel to the intense rivalry between Roger Federer and Nadal, Djokovic turned the tables last year with one of the greatest single seasons in men's tennis history. With three Grand Slam titles in 2011, the rivalry shifted to Djokovic-Nadal, and these two have now met in four straight major finals.
After Nadal dismissed Djokovic in straight sets in Monte Carlo and Rome leading into Paris, the tennis world could sense the tables starting to turn toward the King of Clay on familiar soil.
With punishing topspin strokes, Nadal breezed through his opponents in quick fashion, winning every set heading into a much-anticipated clash with Djokovic who nearly lost on multiple occasions along the way.
Djokovic dropped the first two sets to Andreas Seppi, an Italian player who has been hanging consistently in the top 30. Finding his form in the third set, the Serbian battled back to win in five sets. Little did he know, perhaps a tougher test awaited him in the quarterfinals. With the French crowd cheering on countryman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Djokovic fiercely saved four match points to escape in five sets.
After two comeback wins, Federer to be an easy opponent by comparison, falling in straights to sets to Djokovic.
In a match steep in history, the world number one, Djokovic faced off against Nadal. Djokovic seemed lost in the first two sets, perhaps burdened by the possibility of winning four consecutive majors against Nadal and his vicious topspin, only accentuated by the red clay. After consistent rain, the court started to slow and the balls became heavier, meaning Nadal's high-bouncing balls were now landing directly in Djokovic's strike zone, enabling the Serbian to rebound, taking the third set 6-2, and leading the fourth set 2-1 before the match was postponed. With the court now dry and Nadal rested, the Spaniard quickly regained momentum, taking the clinching fourth set, 7-5.
As if Nadal needed any more evidence as to why he could be considered the greatest player on clay in men's tennis history, his seventh title at Roland Garros gave him sole possession of the record for most French Open titles, passing Bjorn Borg.
With just eight days until Wimbledon, the tennis world will now shift to London for an intriguing major where Roger Federer could potentially break through for another title to add to an impressive resume as arguably the greatest player to step on a tennis court.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
What is wrong with Tim Lincecum?
It has been a scary scene so far this season for the pitcher known as "The Freak," Tim Lincecum.
Lincecum has struggled to find his typical form early on, with an ERA over 10. After already winning two Cy Young awards by the time he was 26, any dip in his performance will be highly scrutinized, and many theories will be made as to why he is not playing well.
Coming off of a year where he posted an ERA under three and struck out slightly over a batter an inning, it's difficult to say that we are witnessing a different type of pitcher. While some critics will point to the fact that his strikeout totals have diminished in each full season, I think that can be attributed to his natural development as a pitcher. While some pitchers will keep very high strikeout rates throughout their careers, it is infrequent and most of them will adapt their pitching as their careers progress to move away from being a flamethrower to an all-around pitcher.
Lincecum's durability has been questioned since he was drafted due to a slight frame and an unusual pitching motion. However, analyzing his pitching mechanics, every part of his body stays in sync until he releases the ball. Most shoulder and elbow injuries in pitchers occur when the arm is behind the timing of the rest of the body. This practice can easily to Tommy John surgery and a lengthy recovery. By keeping his timing correct in his delivery, he reduces some of the strain on his arm when he releases the ball.
Lincecum's fastball has been hovering in the low-90's this season, leading to concerns about his health and performance. It is still early in the season, and with one strong start with movement and velocity on his fastball, the negative comments will disappear.
Every pitcher goes through struggles at some point in their career, and these few starts may just be Lincecum's rough patch. He has pitched well since he arrived at the major league level leading to very high expectations every time he walks to the mound. If he still holds an ERA over 10 in July and his fastball has not gaining life, there may be cause for concern, but the season is still young.
Personally, I don't think there is anything physically wrong with Lincecum, and one start where he pitches well and goes deep into the game will bring back his usual success.
Lincecum faces the Mets tomorrow afternoon on the road and will look to get on track this season with a win. If he pitches well against the Mets, it could easily jump-start a strong year for him.
Lincecum has struggled to find his typical form early on, with an ERA over 10. After already winning two Cy Young awards by the time he was 26, any dip in his performance will be highly scrutinized, and many theories will be made as to why he is not playing well.
Coming off of a year where he posted an ERA under three and struck out slightly over a batter an inning, it's difficult to say that we are witnessing a different type of pitcher. While some critics will point to the fact that his strikeout totals have diminished in each full season, I think that can be attributed to his natural development as a pitcher. While some pitchers will keep very high strikeout rates throughout their careers, it is infrequent and most of them will adapt their pitching as their careers progress to move away from being a flamethrower to an all-around pitcher.
Lincecum's durability has been questioned since he was drafted due to a slight frame and an unusual pitching motion. However, analyzing his pitching mechanics, every part of his body stays in sync until he releases the ball. Most shoulder and elbow injuries in pitchers occur when the arm is behind the timing of the rest of the body. This practice can easily to Tommy John surgery and a lengthy recovery. By keeping his timing correct in his delivery, he reduces some of the strain on his arm when he releases the ball.
Lincecum's fastball has been hovering in the low-90's this season, leading to concerns about his health and performance. It is still early in the season, and with one strong start with movement and velocity on his fastball, the negative comments will disappear.
Every pitcher goes through struggles at some point in their career, and these few starts may just be Lincecum's rough patch. He has pitched well since he arrived at the major league level leading to very high expectations every time he walks to the mound. If he still holds an ERA over 10 in July and his fastball has not gaining life, there may be cause for concern, but the season is still young.
Personally, I don't think there is anything physically wrong with Lincecum, and one start where he pitches well and goes deep into the game will bring back his usual success.
Lincecum faces the Mets tomorrow afternoon on the road and will look to get on track this season with a win. If he pitches well against the Mets, it could easily jump-start a strong year for him.
Friday, April 6, 2012
A Look at Freddy Galvis
Due to Chase Utley's continuing injury issues, the Phillies needed to find a replacement for Utley at second base.
It has been an unfortunate last few years for Utley who had established himself as one of the top 5 second basemen in baseball before a recent battle with injuries. Utley did not debut last season until late May and will miss at least the beginning of this season with ongoing knee trouble. While no date for his return has been set, Utley has been quoted as saying that he expects to play in 2012.
To play second base in Utley's absence, the Phillies turned to Freddy Galvis, a second base prospect who split time between Double-A Reading and Triple-A Lehigh Valley last season.
A 22-year old infielder from Venezuela, Galvis has worked his way through the minor leagues, earning a reputation as a skilled defensive infielder while his bat has started to come along. Before last season, Galvis had never hit above .240 in any season, but had shown some speed on the base paths. While he had more strikeouts than walks at every stop, his strikeout rate in the minor leagues was never alarmingly high, meaning he makes consistent contact.
Last season, something clicked for Galvis and he improved his numbers in almost every category. Whether it was a change in his batting stance or approach, or natural skill progression, Galvis improved immensely as a offensive threat. Galvis hit .273 at Reading with eight home runs and 19 stolen bases, earning a promotion to Lehigh Valley where he hit .298 in 33 games.
The increased offensive potential made Galvis an attractive major-league option even before it was announced that Utley would miss the beginning of the season. Before Jimmy Rollins re-signed with the Phillies in the offseason, Galvis was thought of as a potential replacement for Rollins. After Utley was declared out for the beginning of the season, it was clear that Galvis would get his chance.
If Galvis continues the progression that he showed last season, he could become a nice addition at the back of the Phillies lineup this season. With a stellar season, Galvis could throw himself into the debate for a long-term replacement for Utley. Regardless, it will be interesting how Galvis handles his first chance at the major league level.
It has been an unfortunate last few years for Utley who had established himself as one of the top 5 second basemen in baseball before a recent battle with injuries. Utley did not debut last season until late May and will miss at least the beginning of this season with ongoing knee trouble. While no date for his return has been set, Utley has been quoted as saying that he expects to play in 2012.
To play second base in Utley's absence, the Phillies turned to Freddy Galvis, a second base prospect who split time between Double-A Reading and Triple-A Lehigh Valley last season.
A 22-year old infielder from Venezuela, Galvis has worked his way through the minor leagues, earning a reputation as a skilled defensive infielder while his bat has started to come along. Before last season, Galvis had never hit above .240 in any season, but had shown some speed on the base paths. While he had more strikeouts than walks at every stop, his strikeout rate in the minor leagues was never alarmingly high, meaning he makes consistent contact.
Last season, something clicked for Galvis and he improved his numbers in almost every category. Whether it was a change in his batting stance or approach, or natural skill progression, Galvis improved immensely as a offensive threat. Galvis hit .273 at Reading with eight home runs and 19 stolen bases, earning a promotion to Lehigh Valley where he hit .298 in 33 games.
The increased offensive potential made Galvis an attractive major-league option even before it was announced that Utley would miss the beginning of the season. Before Jimmy Rollins re-signed with the Phillies in the offseason, Galvis was thought of as a potential replacement for Rollins. After Utley was declared out for the beginning of the season, it was clear that Galvis would get his chance.
If Galvis continues the progression that he showed last season, he could become a nice addition at the back of the Phillies lineup this season. With a stellar season, Galvis could throw himself into the debate for a long-term replacement for Utley. Regardless, it will be interesting how Galvis handles his first chance at the major league level.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
A Familiar Squeaking Sound
It's that time of year again. Thousands of college basketball players across the country are lacing up their sneakers and preparing to battle on the hardwood.
Friday is the first day with a full slate on action in the young season. In the most-anticipated of these early-season battles, North Carolina faces Michigan St. on a ship for the inaugural Carrier Classic. The top-ranked Tar Heels face a stiff test against a Spartans team that advanced to the Final Four last season before losing to Butler, 52-50. Tom Izzo will have his team prepared to take on the number one team in the country and the game should be exciting.
The Tar Heels return a trio of exciting future NBA players in Tyler Zeller, John Henson, and Harrison Barnes. As soon as all three players decided to return to Chapel Hill for another season, the Tar Heels quickly became a favorite to win a national championship.
Barnes is seen as a potential national player of the year candidate after showing glimpses of his potential in the ACC tournament last year. Henson is widely considered to be one of the best defenders in college basketball and Zeller has reminded fans of another player named Tyler now playing in the NBA who was a force at the collegiate level.
For the Spartans, a new leader will have to emerge after losing leading scorer Kalin Lucas to graduation. Lucas has the ability to change a game by himself, scoring in double figures in each of his four seasons in East Lansing. The Spartans also lost guard Korie Lucious after he transferred to Iowa State after his junior season. Lucious led the Spartans with 4.1 assists per game last season.
Aside from the teams, the atmosphere of the game will create an exciting element. Playing on a makeshift court outdoors might have an effect on the play early in the game as players adjust. The game may have the feel of a Cameron Indoor Stadium with limited seating and a close to the court environment. While it will be near impossible for the game to live up to the immense hype surrounding it, these teams will create an exciting forty minutes of basketball to kick off the season.
Friday is the first day with a full slate on action in the young season. In the most-anticipated of these early-season battles, North Carolina faces Michigan St. on a ship for the inaugural Carrier Classic. The top-ranked Tar Heels face a stiff test against a Spartans team that advanced to the Final Four last season before losing to Butler, 52-50. Tom Izzo will have his team prepared to take on the number one team in the country and the game should be exciting.
The Tar Heels return a trio of exciting future NBA players in Tyler Zeller, John Henson, and Harrison Barnes. As soon as all three players decided to return to Chapel Hill for another season, the Tar Heels quickly became a favorite to win a national championship.
Barnes is seen as a potential national player of the year candidate after showing glimpses of his potential in the ACC tournament last year. Henson is widely considered to be one of the best defenders in college basketball and Zeller has reminded fans of another player named Tyler now playing in the NBA who was a force at the collegiate level.
For the Spartans, a new leader will have to emerge after losing leading scorer Kalin Lucas to graduation. Lucas has the ability to change a game by himself, scoring in double figures in each of his four seasons in East Lansing. The Spartans also lost guard Korie Lucious after he transferred to Iowa State after his junior season. Lucious led the Spartans with 4.1 assists per game last season.
Aside from the teams, the atmosphere of the game will create an exciting element. Playing on a makeshift court outdoors might have an effect on the play early in the game as players adjust. The game may have the feel of a Cameron Indoor Stadium with limited seating and a close to the court environment. While it will be near impossible for the game to live up to the immense hype surrounding it, these teams will create an exciting forty minutes of basketball to kick off the season.
Friday, November 4, 2011
A Championship in November
Tomorrow, LSU and Alabama will meet in prime time in what is a sort of regular-season title game pitting the top two teams against each other.
These two teams feature the top two scoring defenses in the Football Bowl Subdivision. The Crimson Tide are allowing a minuscule 6.9 points per game, while the Tigers are giving up 11.5.
The fact that both teams play in the same division of the same conference, makes this game essentially an SEC West title game. The winner of the game will control their destiny for a trip to Atlanta in December for the conference championship.
The Crimson Tide are led offensively by junior running back Trent Richardson. Richardson has rushed for 17 touchdowns this season, and nearly 1,000 yards, while adding 212 yards and another touchdown receiving. Two weeks ago against Tennessee, Richardson saw his streak of six straight 100-yard rushing games come to an end, but contributed two touchdowns in a 37-6 win. He has found the end zone at least once in every game this season, whether it be rushing or receiving. When Richardson decides to enter the NFL Draft, he will be sure to hear his name called quickly as an elite talent.
Richardson's ability to change the momentum of the game every time he touches the ball takes pressure off of sophomore quarterback A.J. McCarron. McCarron has played well this season, completing 67 percent of his passes, along with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions. The unknown factor, however, is how McCarron will respond to facing one of the best defenses in the country. The Tigers will bring constant pressure and try to force McCarron into errant throws.
On the other sideline, redshirt senior Jarrett Lee will line up under center for the Tigers. Lee has started in spurts throughout his time in Baton Rouge but has played near-flawless football this season. Lee has thrown 13 touchdowns as opposed to one interception thrown nearly two months ago in a 19-6 win over Mississippi State. Lee completing eight of 21 attempts against Kentucky in early October, but has looked near-unstoppable in his last three outings, completing at least 70 percent of his passes in each game.
For a coach such as Les Miles who routinely uses unusual packages to confuse opposing defenses, Lee is a perfect fit. He has impeccable ball control and rarely forces throws in coverage.
Having a quarterback with composure and a pocket presence to release the ball in time to complete throws is essential. These traits have helped Lee to lead the Tigers to the number one ranking.
The game will be highly entertaining with great defenses on both sides, an future first-round pick in the backfield for the Crimson Tide and a precise passer for the Tigers. In the end, Richardson will lead the Crimson Tide to victory with a multi-score game and improve his team to 9-0.
Prediction: Alabama 24, LSU 20
These two teams feature the top two scoring defenses in the Football Bowl Subdivision. The Crimson Tide are allowing a minuscule 6.9 points per game, while the Tigers are giving up 11.5.
The fact that both teams play in the same division of the same conference, makes this game essentially an SEC West title game. The winner of the game will control their destiny for a trip to Atlanta in December for the conference championship.
The Crimson Tide are led offensively by junior running back Trent Richardson. Richardson has rushed for 17 touchdowns this season, and nearly 1,000 yards, while adding 212 yards and another touchdown receiving. Two weeks ago against Tennessee, Richardson saw his streak of six straight 100-yard rushing games come to an end, but contributed two touchdowns in a 37-6 win. He has found the end zone at least once in every game this season, whether it be rushing or receiving. When Richardson decides to enter the NFL Draft, he will be sure to hear his name called quickly as an elite talent.
Richardson's ability to change the momentum of the game every time he touches the ball takes pressure off of sophomore quarterback A.J. McCarron. McCarron has played well this season, completing 67 percent of his passes, along with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions. The unknown factor, however, is how McCarron will respond to facing one of the best defenses in the country. The Tigers will bring constant pressure and try to force McCarron into errant throws.
On the other sideline, redshirt senior Jarrett Lee will line up under center for the Tigers. Lee has started in spurts throughout his time in Baton Rouge but has played near-flawless football this season. Lee has thrown 13 touchdowns as opposed to one interception thrown nearly two months ago in a 19-6 win over Mississippi State. Lee completing eight of 21 attempts against Kentucky in early October, but has looked near-unstoppable in his last three outings, completing at least 70 percent of his passes in each game.
For a coach such as Les Miles who routinely uses unusual packages to confuse opposing defenses, Lee is a perfect fit. He has impeccable ball control and rarely forces throws in coverage.
Having a quarterback with composure and a pocket presence to release the ball in time to complete throws is essential. These traits have helped Lee to lead the Tigers to the number one ranking.
The game will be highly entertaining with great defenses on both sides, an future first-round pick in the backfield for the Crimson Tide and a precise passer for the Tigers. In the end, Richardson will lead the Crimson Tide to victory with a multi-score game and improve his team to 9-0.
Prediction: Alabama 24, LSU 20
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
#1: A Blessing and a Curse
Recently, the North Carolina men's basketball team was named the number one team in the country in the preseason poll.
While this is great news for any Tar Heels fan with Tyler Zeller, Harrison Barnes and John Henson returning to Chapel Hill, the ranking means there will a target on their backs all season. There will much greater pressure for them to have an excellent season and avoid being upset by a mid-major squad early in the season. Every move that the team makes will be analyzed in detail as the date draws nearer to their first meeting with Duke.
For the Tar Heels to have the season that the media expects them to have, coach Roy Williams will have to remind his players to forget their place in the top 25, and play every game as if they were playing Duke. A two-hour loss of concentration is all it takes for the dreams of a perfect season to disappear and the shock of losing to a team that should have been an easy win, to set in.
The Tar Heels will have to be at their best in a Dec. 3 showdown against Kentucky. While it is important to stay focused in every game, a loss against the Wildcats would not be tragic. A loss would ease the mounting tension that comes with the top ranking, and allow Williams and his players to focus on what is happening on the court.
Showing how difficult it is to run the table and finish a season undefeated, it has been 35 years since a men's college basketball team finished unbeaten. The 1976 Indiana Hoosiers, coached by Bob Knight, ended the season 33-0 and captured a national title. In an era now where every game featuring a team that is undefeated is headline news, pulling off such a feat is both mentally and physically taxing. A team may finish a regular season with an unblemished record, only to lose in their conference tournament, or worse in the NCAA Tournament.
While there is never a great time for a loss, it would be ideal to lose an early-season game against tough competition to allow the media to focus on the new flavor of the month and have the rest of the season to play well.
Williams has a very talented groups of players at his disposal this season and it will interesting to see if they can manage to pull off an undefeated season, or if another team can run the table.
While this is great news for any Tar Heels fan with Tyler Zeller, Harrison Barnes and John Henson returning to Chapel Hill, the ranking means there will a target on their backs all season. There will much greater pressure for them to have an excellent season and avoid being upset by a mid-major squad early in the season. Every move that the team makes will be analyzed in detail as the date draws nearer to their first meeting with Duke.
For the Tar Heels to have the season that the media expects them to have, coach Roy Williams will have to remind his players to forget their place in the top 25, and play every game as if they were playing Duke. A two-hour loss of concentration is all it takes for the dreams of a perfect season to disappear and the shock of losing to a team that should have been an easy win, to set in.
The Tar Heels will have to be at their best in a Dec. 3 showdown against Kentucky. While it is important to stay focused in every game, a loss against the Wildcats would not be tragic. A loss would ease the mounting tension that comes with the top ranking, and allow Williams and his players to focus on what is happening on the court.
Showing how difficult it is to run the table and finish a season undefeated, it has been 35 years since a men's college basketball team finished unbeaten. The 1976 Indiana Hoosiers, coached by Bob Knight, ended the season 33-0 and captured a national title. In an era now where every game featuring a team that is undefeated is headline news, pulling off such a feat is both mentally and physically taxing. A team may finish a regular season with an unblemished record, only to lose in their conference tournament, or worse in the NCAA Tournament.
While there is never a great time for a loss, it would be ideal to lose an early-season game against tough competition to allow the media to focus on the new flavor of the month and have the rest of the season to play well.
Williams has a very talented groups of players at his disposal this season and it will interesting to see if they can manage to pull off an undefeated season, or if another team can run the table.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Chargers-Chiefs MNF Preview
The Chargers and Chiefs meet tonight in a rematch of a Week 3 game won by the Chargers 20-17.
The Chargers escaped disaster in the first meeting after a late interception by Eric Weddle sealed the victory against a then-winless Chiefs team.
Fast forward five weeks. The Chiefs have won three games in a row to improve to 3-3, as fourth-year running back Jackie Battle has been thrust into the starting job after Jamaal Charles was injured and Thomas Jones was pulled. The Chargers are 2-1 in their last three, losing their last game to the Jets, 27-21. The Chargers held a 21-10 halftime lead, which vanished as the Jets scored 17 unanswered points in the second half. Now these foes meet again as Kansas City has righted the ship, while the Chargers are trying to legitimize their 4-2 record after being inconsistent offensively.
Despite the injuries in their backfield, the Chiefs are currently in the top ten in rushing yards per game, and will rely on Battle to have another productive outing. Battle has averaged nearly 100 yards per game in his last two, and will facing a defense ranked in the bottom half of the league facing the run. The Chargers have allowed 162 yards rushing in each of their last two games, and Battle has been moving the ball well lately.
Through the air, the Chiefs need Matt Cassel to play well. Cassel decimated the Colts in a win three weeks ago, throwing for four touchdowns and no interceptions, while amassing 257 yards against a weak secondary. The Chargers are a better pass defense than the Colts, making a repeat performance against San Diego unlikely.
For the Chargers, Philip Rivers has struggled this season, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns, and also fumbling four times. His two interceptions against the Jets last week, helped the Jets steal a win for the Chargers. Rivers has completed 64 percent of his passes this season, but will have to hold onto the ball for the Chargers to win. In the first matchup between these two teams, Rivers threw two interceptions, but was helped by a two-touchdown performance from Ryan Mathews. The Chargers will not be able to rely on Mathews running for nearly 100 yards week in and week out, and will need Rivers to secure the ball and make smart throws.
The Chargers eked out a tight win in the first meeting in San Diego, and we can expect another close game between the Chargers and Chiefs. The Chargers have played well one week, only to struggle the next. The Chiefs have stabilized their offense and believe that they can win after a disappointing start. The Chargers will give the Chiefs a battle, but Cassel will win the game late and move the Chiefs to 4-3 and into a tie for first-place with the Chargers.
Prediction: Chiefs 24, Chargers 17
The Chargers escaped disaster in the first meeting after a late interception by Eric Weddle sealed the victory against a then-winless Chiefs team.
Fast forward five weeks. The Chiefs have won three games in a row to improve to 3-3, as fourth-year running back Jackie Battle has been thrust into the starting job after Jamaal Charles was injured and Thomas Jones was pulled. The Chargers are 2-1 in their last three, losing their last game to the Jets, 27-21. The Chargers held a 21-10 halftime lead, which vanished as the Jets scored 17 unanswered points in the second half. Now these foes meet again as Kansas City has righted the ship, while the Chargers are trying to legitimize their 4-2 record after being inconsistent offensively.
Despite the injuries in their backfield, the Chiefs are currently in the top ten in rushing yards per game, and will rely on Battle to have another productive outing. Battle has averaged nearly 100 yards per game in his last two, and will facing a defense ranked in the bottom half of the league facing the run. The Chargers have allowed 162 yards rushing in each of their last two games, and Battle has been moving the ball well lately.
Through the air, the Chiefs need Matt Cassel to play well. Cassel decimated the Colts in a win three weeks ago, throwing for four touchdowns and no interceptions, while amassing 257 yards against a weak secondary. The Chargers are a better pass defense than the Colts, making a repeat performance against San Diego unlikely.
For the Chargers, Philip Rivers has struggled this season, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns, and also fumbling four times. His two interceptions against the Jets last week, helped the Jets steal a win for the Chargers. Rivers has completed 64 percent of his passes this season, but will have to hold onto the ball for the Chargers to win. In the first matchup between these two teams, Rivers threw two interceptions, but was helped by a two-touchdown performance from Ryan Mathews. The Chargers will not be able to rely on Mathews running for nearly 100 yards week in and week out, and will need Rivers to secure the ball and make smart throws.
The Chargers eked out a tight win in the first meeting in San Diego, and we can expect another close game between the Chargers and Chiefs. The Chargers have played well one week, only to struggle the next. The Chiefs have stabilized their offense and believe that they can win after a disappointing start. The Chargers will give the Chiefs a battle, but Cassel will win the game late and move the Chiefs to 4-3 and into a tie for first-place with the Chargers.
Prediction: Chiefs 24, Chargers 17
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Patriots-Steelers preview
Two of the best big game quarterbacks in football meet today in Pittsburgh as the Patriots and Steelers face off.
Combined, Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger have won five Super Bowl titles and appear to both be on the track to the Hall of Fame. Both players lead teams who can be considered title contenders this season. Brady has spread the field throughout the year, leading the Patriots to a 5-1 record, while leading the NFL in passing yardage. The Steelers have become more of an offensive team this season as Roethlisberger has thrown for nearly 2,000 yards en route to a 5-2 record.
These two teams bring different play styles to the table when they play. The Patriots on the right arm of Brady almost exclusively, while the Steelers are content to hand the ball off to Rashard Mendenhall to move the chains.
When the Patriots are on offense, Brady will look to his favorite target, Wes Welker. In normal Bill Belichick fashion, he found another diamond in the rough with Welker, turning him from a reserve in Miami to one of the best receivers in football. Welker is usually found near the top of the receptions list year in and year out, and this season is no exception. With 51 catches for 785 yards, he is one of the most formidable receivers in the NFL.
The Steelers will try to shut down the Patriots offense with one of the best defenses in football. Troy Polamalu will bring disguised blitzes off the edges and try to force Brady into quick throws. James Harrison is another threatening presence on the line. The major problem with the Steelers defense, however, is pass coverage. The Steelers are among the leaders in run defense, but typically struggle against a team that can pass consistently such as the Patriots. It may be smart for Polamalu to inch close to the line and show that he is going to blitz before dropping back into coverage.
The Steelers on offense have a big play receiver that Roethlisberger can look to throw to, in Mike Wallace. In his career, Wallace has averaged over 20 yards per reception along with having a nose for the end zone. Wallace has the speed to separate himself from the defense and get open. Showing his ability, Wallace has amassed 730 receiving yards this season. Antonio Brown has also established himself as a nice complement to Wallace with 25 catches this year.
Belichick will use different tactics throughout the game to keep the Steelers defense off-guard. The Steelers will have to cover Welker and collapse quickly on other receivers as the Patriots have athletic players in every position. In the end, Brady's ability to move the ball down the field will tire the Steelers defense and move the Patriots to 6-1.
Prediction: Patriots 34, Steelers 21
Combined, Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger have won five Super Bowl titles and appear to both be on the track to the Hall of Fame. Both players lead teams who can be considered title contenders this season. Brady has spread the field throughout the year, leading the Patriots to a 5-1 record, while leading the NFL in passing yardage. The Steelers have become more of an offensive team this season as Roethlisberger has thrown for nearly 2,000 yards en route to a 5-2 record.
These two teams bring different play styles to the table when they play. The Patriots on the right arm of Brady almost exclusively, while the Steelers are content to hand the ball off to Rashard Mendenhall to move the chains.
When the Patriots are on offense, Brady will look to his favorite target, Wes Welker. In normal Bill Belichick fashion, he found another diamond in the rough with Welker, turning him from a reserve in Miami to one of the best receivers in football. Welker is usually found near the top of the receptions list year in and year out, and this season is no exception. With 51 catches for 785 yards, he is one of the most formidable receivers in the NFL.
The Steelers will try to shut down the Patriots offense with one of the best defenses in football. Troy Polamalu will bring disguised blitzes off the edges and try to force Brady into quick throws. James Harrison is another threatening presence on the line. The major problem with the Steelers defense, however, is pass coverage. The Steelers are among the leaders in run defense, but typically struggle against a team that can pass consistently such as the Patriots. It may be smart for Polamalu to inch close to the line and show that he is going to blitz before dropping back into coverage.
The Steelers on offense have a big play receiver that Roethlisberger can look to throw to, in Mike Wallace. In his career, Wallace has averaged over 20 yards per reception along with having a nose for the end zone. Wallace has the speed to separate himself from the defense and get open. Showing his ability, Wallace has amassed 730 receiving yards this season. Antonio Brown has also established himself as a nice complement to Wallace with 25 catches this year.
Belichick will use different tactics throughout the game to keep the Steelers defense off-guard. The Steelers will have to cover Welker and collapse quickly on other receivers as the Patriots have athletic players in every position. In the end, Brady's ability to move the ball down the field will tire the Steelers defense and move the Patriots to 6-1.
Prediction: Patriots 34, Steelers 21
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Oklahoma-Kansas State preview
Kansas State has played very well this season, rising to eighth in the BCS poll on the strength of a 7-0 record. Oklahoma was seen as a national title contender before a stunning loss to Texas Tech dropped them to ninth. Today at 3:30 p.m., the Sooners and Wildcats meet in a key game for both teams as the winner will be the Big 12 driver's seat, while the loser will tumble in the rankings.
After being an understudy to Sam Bradford, Landry Jones has taken control of the Oklahoma offense and become one of the best quarterbacks in the country. The junior has completed 65 percent of his passes, with 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions. As soon as Jones decides to declare himself eligible for the NFL Draft, he will become a projected high pick for any team looking for a quarterback. For now, Jones will have to stay focused on beating Kansas State.
Jones has Football Bowl Subdivision career receptions leader Ryan Broyles to throw to when he is pressured. Broyles has accumulated eye-popping numbers for the Sooners, with 333 career catches for 4,328 yards and 44 touchdowns. Broyles is always a threat to have a big game and should see plenty of balls thrown his way.
On the ground, the Sooners depend on junior walk-on running back Dominique Whaley to shoulder the load. Whaley is on pace to pass 1,000 yards this year, while also being a threat to catch passes out of the backfield. Whaley slashed the Kansas defense two weeks ago for 165 yards on 30 carries.
For Kansas State, dual-threat junior quarterback Collin Klein holds the reins. Klein leads the team in passing, as well as rushing. Klein has a combined 22 touchdowns and is a threat to scramble when the pocket collapses and in designed quarterback runs. Klein has amassed over 600 rushing yards and 934 passing yards this season.
Head Coach Bill Snyder has turned around the Wildcats program immensely in his second stint in Manhattan. After two seasons around .500, the Wildcats have become one of the best teams in the country.
Oklahoma is a perennial contender under Bob Stoops and always bring a talented squad into any game.
These offenses will battle back and forth, making for compelling action with a high ranking at stake. It will be tight throughout the game, but Oklahoma should win with Jones and Broyles leading the way.
Prediction: Oklahoma 35, Kansas State 28
After being an understudy to Sam Bradford, Landry Jones has taken control of the Oklahoma offense and become one of the best quarterbacks in the country. The junior has completed 65 percent of his passes, with 21 touchdowns and seven interceptions. As soon as Jones decides to declare himself eligible for the NFL Draft, he will become a projected high pick for any team looking for a quarterback. For now, Jones will have to stay focused on beating Kansas State.
Jones has Football Bowl Subdivision career receptions leader Ryan Broyles to throw to when he is pressured. Broyles has accumulated eye-popping numbers for the Sooners, with 333 career catches for 4,328 yards and 44 touchdowns. Broyles is always a threat to have a big game and should see plenty of balls thrown his way.
On the ground, the Sooners depend on junior walk-on running back Dominique Whaley to shoulder the load. Whaley is on pace to pass 1,000 yards this year, while also being a threat to catch passes out of the backfield. Whaley slashed the Kansas defense two weeks ago for 165 yards on 30 carries.
For Kansas State, dual-threat junior quarterback Collin Klein holds the reins. Klein leads the team in passing, as well as rushing. Klein has a combined 22 touchdowns and is a threat to scramble when the pocket collapses and in designed quarterback runs. Klein has amassed over 600 rushing yards and 934 passing yards this season.
Head Coach Bill Snyder has turned around the Wildcats program immensely in his second stint in Manhattan. After two seasons around .500, the Wildcats have become one of the best teams in the country.
Oklahoma is a perennial contender under Bob Stoops and always bring a talented squad into any game.
These offenses will battle back and forth, making for compelling action with a high ranking at stake. It will be tight throughout the game, but Oklahoma should win with Jones and Broyles leading the way.
Prediction: Oklahoma 35, Kansas State 28
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