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Following in Ryan's Lead, I will have my NFL predictions.
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
25 Haziran 2012 Pazartesi
Don't Call It a Comeback (Please)
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I finally caved and bought a yearlong subscription to Ken Pomeroy's genius college basketball website, www.kenpom.com. It's possible I may have mentioned this advanced stats site to some of you before.
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
Euro Cup Final 3
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There are only four teams left, but only 3 competitors left in our little Euro Cup pool. With my string of bad luck continuing neither of my two teams advanced and offically ending this crappy event for me.
Fodor has two teams left (Portugal and Italy), but neither will be the favorite in their semifinal game on Wed/Thursday.
Of the 4 teams left, 3 of them were the first 3 taken (Germany, Spain and Portugal) while Italy was taken 6th behind my great picks of the dutch and France.
Steve
Fodor has two teams left (Portugal and Italy), but neither will be the favorite in their semifinal game on Wed/Thursday.
Of the 4 teams left, 3 of them were the first 3 taken (Germany, Spain and Portugal) while Italy was taken 6th behind my great picks of the dutch and France.
Steve
Let's talk about Joel Rechlicz
To contact us Click HERE
Yesterday's post garnered this comment from Debb:
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.
Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
I love your blog..and I see where you are going with the caps coach. I totally agree..but whats with the Recker comments???I know there is really not a spot for the guy in the NHL but..I wanted to ask you a question. Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda?? Just wanted to know your take on it. I am such a Recker fan that I have trouble with the latest comments from everywhere about where he is and what he does..I think he is paid for a job that he does verrry well if they would just let him...Reck someone..Not that many toe to toe fights right now. I understand they need players that score because of the time of the year..But I think he really serves a purpose..Thanks
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
St. John's IceCaps visit Hershey Bears tonight
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The St. John's IceCaps are currently the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. They have all but locked up the Atlantic Division, leading by 14 points over second place Manchester. More than likely, barring a Norfolk collapse, they will remain as the #2 seed until the playoffs.
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
Syner is a really fun player to watch. He's not big (5'9, 173lbs), but he is very fast. He can dart in and out of traffic and is difficult to contain because he utilizes his speed so effectively.
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
24 Haziran 2012 Pazar
Let's talk about Joel Rechlicz
To contact us Click HERE
Yesterday's post garnered this comment from Debb:
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.
Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
I love your blog..and I see where you are going with the caps coach. I totally agree..but whats with the Recker comments???I know there is really not a spot for the guy in the NHL but..I wanted to ask you a question. Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda?? Just wanted to know your take on it. I am such a Recker fan that I have trouble with the latest comments from everywhere about where he is and what he does..I think he is paid for a job that he does verrry well if they would just let him...Reck someone..Not that many toe to toe fights right now. I understand they need players that score because of the time of the year..But I think he really serves a purpose..Thanks
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
St. John's IceCaps visit Hershey Bears tonight
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The St. John's IceCaps are currently the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. They have all but locked up the Atlantic Division, leading by 14 points over second place Manchester. More than likely, barring a Norfolk collapse, they will remain as the #2 seed until the playoffs.
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
Syner is a really fun player to watch. He's not big (5'9, 173lbs), but he is very fast. He can dart in and out of traffic and is difficult to contain because he utilizes his speed so effectively.
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
23 Haziran 2012 Cumartesi
Noffke's NFL Predictions
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Following in Ryan's Lead, I will have my NFL predictions.
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
Don't Call It a Comeback (Please)
To contact us Click HERE
I finally caved and bought a yearlong subscription to Ken Pomeroy's genius college basketball website, www.kenpom.com. It's possible I may have mentioned this advanced stats site to some of you before.
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
Let's talk about Joel Rechlicz
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Yesterday's post garnered this comment from Debb:
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.
Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
I love your blog..and I see where you are going with the caps coach. I totally agree..but whats with the Recker comments???I know there is really not a spot for the guy in the NHL but..I wanted to ask you a question. Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda?? Just wanted to know your take on it. I am such a Recker fan that I have trouble with the latest comments from everywhere about where he is and what he does..I think he is paid for a job that he does verrry well if they would just let him...Reck someone..Not that many toe to toe fights right now. I understand they need players that score because of the time of the year..But I think he really serves a purpose..Thanks
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
St. John's IceCaps visit Hershey Bears tonight
To contact us Click HERE
The St. John's IceCaps are currently the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. They have all but locked up the Atlantic Division, leading by 14 points over second place Manchester. More than likely, barring a Norfolk collapse, they will remain as the #2 seed until the playoffs.
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
Syner is a really fun player to watch. He's not big (5'9, 173lbs), but he is very fast. He can dart in and out of traffic and is difficult to contain because he utilizes his speed so effectively.
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
21 Haziran 2012 Perşembe
Let's talk about Joel Rechlicz
To contact us Click HERE
Yesterday's post garnered this comment from Debb:
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.
Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
I love your blog..and I see where you are going with the caps coach. I totally agree..but whats with the Recker comments???I know there is really not a spot for the guy in the NHL but..I wanted to ask you a question. Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda?? Just wanted to know your take on it. I am such a Recker fan that I have trouble with the latest comments from everywhere about where he is and what he does..I think he is paid for a job that he does verrry well if they would just let him...Reck someone..Not that many toe to toe fights right now. I understand they need players that score because of the time of the year..But I think he really serves a purpose..Thanks
First of all, thanks for the comment Debb. Hopefully I understand what you are asking here. I am reading it as you are wondering why everyone is criticizing the organization, and in turn Joel, for his recent recalls to Washington.
Originally I intended to just respond to the comment in the comment thread, but that response became pretty long so I decided to do a full post about it instead.
I like Joel. While I have never met him, I am sure he is a great person. He has made a career out of doing what he loves, playing hockey. His role probably isn't exactly what he envisioned as a young player, but his size, skill level, and what was needed on his teams likely dictated a little bit of what he has become. I am pretty certain that just about every 'enforcer' that has played hockey would rather have made it as a goal scorer, but they didn't have those skills. For many of them they were big enough and tough enough to make it to pro hockey by fighting. My guess is that very few of them would trade playing professionally for anything.Joel is good at what he does. He can really throw punches and he isn't afraid to go toe to toe with anyone...no matter how many come at him. He gets the team into it, the crowd into it, and he strikes fear into the opposing teams. (Just ask the guys on the Phantoms bench!)
My problem of late isn't with Wrecker. However, I understand how the criticism can seem like a knock on Joel, but it isn't meant that way. At least not by me. I accept Joel and his game for what they are...one part of overall team.
My criticism is with the Caps coaching staff...namely Dale Hunter. EVERYONE knows what Joel brings to the table. And everyone knows that his game outside of that is limited. Even in Hershey, where the talent level is obviously lower than the NHL, Joel rarely plays in the third period of tight games. In complete games Joel sometimes gets only about a handful of shifts a night.
But Dale Hunter seems like he is stuck in the 90s. He is trying to win in today's NHL with a physical, imposing mentality that most teams abandoned after the lockout. Back then, Joel very well may have been an every night player.
Unfortunately for Coach Hunters beliefs, those types of things don't win games on a consistent basis in today's NHL. Enforcers are a rarity on NHL teams nowadays. Gone are the Bob Probert's of the world and in their place are the Matt Hendricks style fighter...grinders who will drop the gloves to defend a teammate.
My questions about Joel's recalls were more centered on...why the hell would Dale Hunter recall a guy that rarely plays more than a handful of shifts in the AHL? The Caps problems don't seem to be on the physical end of the spectrum...at least that's my opinion (which means absolutely nothing...to anyone).
Hunter seems lost. Apparently that's what this Caps team does to people....just ask Bruce Boudreau.
As for other part of your question "Do they tell him what to do when he is played? I mean..do you think that they just cut him loose on the ice..or is their a preset agenda??"...
All teams have a certain scheme and all players/positions in those schemes have certain positional responsibilities. Whether its to be at a certain place on a breakout or to cover a certain player after a faceoff.
While Joel has a very defined role to play on the team...enforcer...he is still expected to maintain his positional responsibilities...not just fight or hit people. If he fails in his responsibilities as a left wing then the other team is likely to get a scoring chance.
So, no, Joel does not just get on the ice to fight someone. He has a role and if he isn't following through on it, the coaches won't play him in other situations.
Hopefully that answers your questions...if not, ask another and I will try to answer that one.
St. John's IceCaps visit Hershey Bears tonight
To contact us Click HERE
The St. John's IceCaps are currently the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. They have all but locked up the Atlantic Division, leading by 14 points over second place Manchester. More than likely, barring a Norfolk collapse, they will remain as the #2 seed until the playoffs.
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
The Hershey Bears are the #5 seed and are, truth be told, in solid position there. They are 6 points up on 6th place Bridgeport and 5 points behind 5th place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Obviously the goal is to be as high as possible in the standings come playoff time, but, like St. John's, barring a Norfolk collapse, the Bears are looking at 4th or 5th.
Unlike their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, the Bears final 12 games will probably not feature any 'must win' games. But when you have Calder Cup aspirations and the #2 team in the conference is visiting for the first time all season...you want to win.
The IceCaps have been a solid team on the road all season. In fact, based on points percentage, they are the BEST team in the AHL on the road. They are 20-5-2-2 on the road on the season. Considering that makes them only 18-13-3-0 on home ice, the Bears two losses there a couple weeks ago look even worse.
But there is some good news. The IceCaps have been struggling of late. In their last 7 road games they are only 3-3-0-1.
And the Bears are playing well at home of late too. Hershey is 5-1-0-0 in their last 6 games, dating back to mid-February.
Tonight's game (and next Saturday's game as the IceCaps return then) is likely to be decided on via special teams. The Bears boast the #1 home power play in the league. The IceCaps counter that with the #3 road penalty kill in the league. On the flip side...the IceCaps have the 3rd best road power play in the league. The Bears home penalty kill ranks 5th overall.
Either one side is going to bend...or this game will be won 5 on 5.
Hershey has been somewhat decimated by injuries both in Washington and Hershey. Keith Aucoin and Braden Holtby remain on recall to the Caps. With injuries, and a conflicting travel schedule, the Bears were forced to sign Matt Tendler to an Amateur Tryout Agreement. Basically it is just so they have a backup in case something happens to Dany Sabourin (knock on wood). He just completed his senior season at Neumann College and is probably not ready for game action in the AHL...just guessing.
Other new players to watch on the Bears (who many of you saw last weekend) are T.J. Syner and Daniel Koger. Both are forwards who made their debuts last weekend.
So who are they...let's start with Syner.
T.J. Syner is very much like a Cory Conacher of the Norfolk Admirals. And Jacob Micflikier of the Bears. He wasn't drafted mainly because of his size. He is listed at 5'9" 173lbs. And apparently he can really skate:
From HockeysFuture.com's college preview earlier this year:
Syner is a really fun player to watch. He's not big (5'9, 173lbs), but he is very fast. He can dart in and out of traffic and is difficult to contain because he utilizes his speed so effectively.
He did make an appearance at the Capitals developmental camp this past summer and then proceeded to score 13 goals and add 24 assists in 36 games during his senior season.
So far with the Bears he has played in 3 games and has an assist. Based on Tim Leone's Tuesday update, he was on the second line with Eakin and Bourque.
Daniel Koger is a rookie hockey player from Hungary. He has played for multiple ECHL and AHL teams this season in attempt to stick somewhere. In the ECHL he has 9 goals and 18 assists in 32 games for Cincinnati and South Carolina. In the AHL he has 0 goals and 2 assists in 15 games with the Bears (2 games, 1 assist), St. John's, Providence, and Milwaukee.
I haven't seen him and a quick google search doesn't bring too many talent evaluations of him. But he is listed at 6'2" 195 lbs so at least he is a full grown player instead of another Hershey miniature.
I am looking forward to seeing both new players and a Bears win tonight!
Noffke's NFL Predictions
To contact us Click HERE
Following in Ryan's Lead, I will have my NFL predictions.
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
Don't Call It a Comeback (Please)
To contact us Click HERE
I finally caved and bought a yearlong subscription to Ken Pomeroy's genius college basketball website, www.kenpom.com. It's possible I may have mentioned this advanced stats site to some of you before.
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
20 Haziran 2012 Çarşamba
Noffke's NFL Predictions
To contact us Click HERE
Following in Ryan's Lead, I will have my NFL predictions.
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
I personally can't wait for the NFL season to start. I am sick and tired of hearing how bad the Bears are going to be and how lucky they were last year. This reached a peak today with Bill Barnwell said on the BS report he thinks the Bears will be the worst team in the NFL, primarily based on the new kickoff rule (WHAT!?). Anyway, here we go.
z - conference winner; y - bye week; x - division winner w - wildcard team.
AFC East
Z. Patriots
2. J-E-T-S
3. Bills
4. Dolphins
Patriots are as good as advertised. Jets have a good year, but miss the playoffs. Bills and Dolphins are terrible.
AFC South
X. Texans
W. Colts
3. Titans
4. Jags
I know, I know, Texans aren't that good, but who in this division is? Jags are the worst team in the NFL, Titans could be good depending on if CJ doesn't have any problems without a training camp and how well Hasselback plays. Colts make it in, but not the division winner unless Peyton gets healthy quick.
AFC West
X. Chargers
2. Raiders
3. Broncos
4. Chiefs
Chiefs benefited from and easy schedule last year, and will struggle this year. Broncos will be good, but inconsistent again. Raiders will suprise with some stability for Jason Campbell in Offense (first time he's in the same offense 2 years in a row since High School) but the Chargers are the class of the West. It's tough to finish #1 in offense and defense and miss the playoffs, but some how they did it last year.
AFC North
Y. Steelers
W. Browns
3. Ravens
4. Bengals
Steelers will be the Steelers. I believe in Colt McCoy. Ravens will have a good year and the Bengals will struggle with New QB Andy Dalton, but he'll win Rookie of the Year.
NFC East
Y. Eagles
2. Redskins
3. Giants
4. Cowboys
Eagles have a lot of hype, and part of me thinks they could have a terrible year. Saying that, Andy Reid always seems to have his teams making the playoffs. Mike Shanonhan was embarassed last year and will have his team ready to play with Rex Grossman. Giants and Cowboys have solid years.
NFC South
Z. Falcons
W. Bucs
3. Saints
4. Panthers
Falcons get Home field primarily based on them getting to play the Panthers twice. Bucs keep on rising. Saints will be good, but just miss the playoffs.
NFC West
X. Rams
2. Cardinals
3. 49ers
4. Seahawks
Rams schedule is brutal to start, but no one in this division will run away from them. Cardinal's season will depend on Kolb. 49ers will be starting Kapernick by week 8 and the Seahawks are lousy.
NFC North
X. Packers
W. Bears
3. Lions
4. Vikings
Packers only go 9-7 and beat the Bears for the division on a tie breaker. Lions could be good, but everyone will get hurt again. Vikings could be good, but O-Line is a problem.
Playoffs (Home Team in CAPS)
AFC
Wildcard
Browns over CHARGERS
Colts over TEXANS
Semi-finals
STEELERS over Colts
PATRIOTS over Browns
Title Game
STEELERS over PATRIOTS
NFC Playoffs
Wildcard
Bears over PACKERS
Bucs over RAMS
Semi-Finals
Bears over FALCONS
EAGLES over Bucs
Title Game
Bears over EAGLES
Super Bowl
Steelers over Bears
Don't Call It a Comeback (Please)
To contact us Click HERE
I finally caved and bought a yearlong subscription to Ken Pomeroy's genius college basketball website, www.kenpom.com. It's possible I may have mentioned this advanced stats site to some of you before.
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
So in order to make my $19.99 pay for itself, it's about damn time to get back to AMATEUR SPORTSWRITING! Wahoo! (You can call it a comeback when I manage to stick to a writing schedule for more than one day.)
It also helps that the Big Ten is having the most exciting men's college hoops season I can remember, and that Indiana is back in the mix. Here's the plan. I'm going to try to write an article at least once per off-day (Saturday, Monday, Thursday), focusing mostly on this incredibly awesome basketball season, and of course the Hoosiers, Northwestern Wildcats, the Big Ten, and maybe even the Bulls in particular.
Enough jibber jabber. I'm shakin' the rust off, baby. Indiana gets Wisconsin at the Kohl Center tonight at 9, which means it's Yogi's Time (gunning for a corporate sponsorship by March...). Here's a little preview. Inside the Hall does a better job of these things than me, by the way, and you can check them out at their FREE site. Take that, peegs.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Oladipo's defense on Jordan Taylor. Taylor killed us last year - courtesy ITH's Justin Albers, "the Wisconsin guard ruined two upset attempts by scoring a combined 67 points in two meetings last season." If he goes off again, we're in some trouble. However, Victor has had to guard Bo Spencer and Tim Frazier now in the last two games, who happen to be the conference's other undersized do-everything guards.
If he's learned anything from the last two games, and can hold Taylor to under or around twenty, that's huge. 'Dipo doesn't need to force a lot of turnovers, just contest every shot and not foul much.
2. Cody Zeller needs to get Jared Berggren in foul trouble. Jared who? Berggren was a godawful reserve last year (think Capobianco level bad) but has turned into a solid scorer and inside presence as a junior. He's also the Badgers' only player over 6'6 other than freshman Frank Kaminsky. (That, by the way, is a CLASSIC Wisconsin name right there.)
I don't really need to spell this out. Do like Dicky V says and get Cody the damn ball. Wisco plays good team defense, but Cody can score at will over just about anybody smaller than him, and I think he can own Flat Top Ryan Evans and/or Bruesewitz in the paint if Berggren goes out and leaves them shorthanded.
3. Wake up Christian Watford on offense. Wat's been rebounding well, but not scoring like he's capable of doing. I think IU needs to get to around seventy points to win this game, and we need Christian to get at least 12-14 to get there. Now would be a great time to break out of this little mini-slump and get your name headed toward's people's All-Big Ten lists, buddy. I would say that you can't live off the Kentucky shot forever, but.... well, you can totally live off that shot forever. Please don't.
This is a pretty good Wisconsin team but I think with our superior size and scoring punch we match up surprisingly well. The Badgers are allowing the lowest 3pt percentage of any B10 team and the fifth lowest in the country at 26.4% (thanks, Pomeroy!). Is it the Kohl Center rims? Because if it's not, we may just mess that stat up for them pretty badly tonight.
Indiana 72 - Wisco 66
Random Notes:
Michigan vs. Michigan State last week was one of the best games I've seen all year, thanks to ESPN3 for televising (computering?) it and a great job by the ESPN crew catching Denard Robinson in the student section partying his ass off and having a blast like the star quarterback at a major state university ought to be doing. Oh, and supporting his fellow student-athletes, of course.
Draymond Green is my favorite non-Indiana player in the Big Ten. I love his attitude, I love watching him play. His court demeanor reminds me of DJ White as a senior. This is a Very Good Thing. It's been cool watching him grow into a leader at Michigan State. By the way, that braces picture? That's the #1 image result for "Draymond Green" on Google. Hah.
Northwestern, at 12-7 and having gotten shellacked by Minnesota, is probably looking at the NIT now. Hey, as long as they go to the NIT Final Four, I'm happy. This is Not Such a Good Thing.
Kenpom has this cool thing now where you can see a player's profile year by year, and also guys that have had similar stats throughout the years the site has been up. Will Sheehey's #1 parallel? This year's edition of UNC's Harrison Barnes. I know Barnes hasn't been quite as good as hyped, but he's still been The Guy for the #8 team in the country. That's pretty cool.
By the way, UNC vs. NC State starts at 7, and I'm goanna go watch it. Zeller double feature! (I stole that line). Also an important game for Indiana's NC SOS (that's non-conference strength of schedule).
Matt Roth's #1 parallel, by the way? '11 Jon Diebler. That's almost as good as Sheehey's. It's great to see Roth playing well as a senior.
Thanks for reading and I hope to have a lot more for you as the year goes on. Much love. Go Hoosiers!
Euro 2012 Group Stage Final Standings
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Shark who was stalking 1st place during the 2ndround of games had 3 victories worth 9 points in round three which propelledhis team to the win. His choice of the Czech Republic over Ireland was the keyto his victory, had he gone the other way, he would have lost.
Former leader Ryan got no points from teams not namedGermany in round 3 which dropped him all the way to third despite having thehighest scoring group stage team Germany. Germany had more points, 9, then hisother 3 teams combined 7.
Fodor finished 2nd getting wins from his #1 and#2 teams in round 3 from Portugal and Italy.
I finished dead last, 12 points behind the leader thanks tomy #1 pick, the Netherlands getting 0 (the only other team to not get a tie orwin was last pick Ireland).
Here are the final standings
Now we move on to the elimination round. Here are the teams each drafter has left.
Noffke
France vs SpainGreece vs Germany
Shark
Spain vs FranceEngland vs ItalyCzech Republic vs Portugal
Fodor
Portugal vs Czech Republic Italy vs England
Ryan
Germany vs Greece
Shark who was stalking 1st place during the 2ndround of games had 3 victories worth 9 points in round three which propelledhis team to the win. His choice of the Czech Republic over Ireland was the keyto his victory, had he gone the other way, he would have lost.
Former leader Ryan got no points from teams not namedGermany in round 3 which dropped him all the way to third despite having thehighest scoring group stage team Germany. Germany had more points, 9, then hisother 3 teams combined 7.
Fodor finished 2nd getting wins from his #1 and#2 teams in round 3 from Portugal and Italy.
I finished dead last, 12 points behind the leader thanks tomy #1 pick, the Netherlands getting 0 (the only other team to not get a tie orwin was last pick Ireland).
Here are the final standings
| Team | Rankings | Points Back | Tie Breaker |
| Shark | 1 | 5 | |
| Fodor | 2 | -6 | 3 |
| Ryan | 3 | -7 | -5 |
| Noffke | 4 | -12 | -3 |
| Points | +/- | |
| Noffke | 11 | -3 |
| Netherlands | 0 | -3 |
| France | 4 | 0 |
| Greece | 4 | 0 |
| Sweden | 3 | 0 |
| Shark | 23 | 5 |
| Spain | 7 | 5 |
| England | 7 | 2 |
| Denmark | 3 | -1 |
| Czech Republic | 6 | -1 |
| Fodor | 17 | 3 |
| Portugal | 6 | 1 |
| Italy | 5 | 2 |
| Croatia | 4 | 1 |
| Poland | 2 | -1 |
| Ryan | 16 | -5 |
| Germany | 9 | 3 |
| Russia | 4 | 2 |
| Ukraine | 3 | -2 |
| Ireland | 0 | -8 |
Now we move on to the elimination round. Here are the teams each drafter has left.
Noffke
France vs SpainGreece vs Germany
Shark
Spain vs FranceEngland vs ItalyCzech Republic vs Portugal
Fodor
Portugal vs Czech Republic Italy vs England
Ryan
Germany vs Greece
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