Matt Mc's Sports Fix The Bigger Blog

Breaking Down The Sweet 16 - East

2011-03-25T09:49:00.002-04:00

Each day here on the Blog and on the show we'll break down this year's Sweet 16 region by region. We are doing this despite the fact that my bracket is blown up the fact that Syracuse is out. I'm a glutton for punishment and hopefully you are too. You can click to see the Southwest, Southeast, and West regions that we have covered. Today we tackle the East region.

Teams Left Dancing: (1) Ohio State, (2) North Carolina, (4) Kentucky, (11) Marquette

Games: Friday - (2) North Carolina v. (11) Marquette 7:15 CBS, (1) Ohio State v. (4) Kentucky 9:47 CBS (Newark, NJ)

Story Line: What many felt was the toughest region of the four essentially held to form throughout the first weekend of the tournament. The one obvious exception is the fact that Syracuse is home after Marquette beat the Orange for the second time this season. Regardless of that upset, the East region semis are loaded with talented teams, players, and coaches. The main story line, however, has to be centered on The Ohio State. The Buckeyes have super frosh Jared Sullinger in the paint and senior sharp shooter Jon Diebler firing away from distance. Throw in a cast of experienced players and coach Thad Matta and OSU may be that dominate team everyone seems to think college ball is lacking this year. Can Ohio State get through tradition rich teams like Kentucky and North Carolina?

Most Likely Regoinal Final: I think we are headed for a potential classic as the Buckeyes and the Tar Heels should be playing in the finals on Sunday. Obviously young, the Tar Heels can counter Sullinger with Tyler Zeller (who's playing great basketball) and John Henson. Plus, Harrison Barnes has started to live up to his preseason hype. Although I like Ohio State's chances, a finals showdown with Roy Williams' bunch would be a fight to the finish.

Breaking Down The Sweet 16 - Southwest

2011-03-24T10:48:00.002-04:00

Each day here on the Blog and on the show we'll break down this year's Sweet 16 region by region. We are doing this despite the fact that my bracket is blown up and the fact that Syracuse is out. I'm a glutton for punishment and hopefully you are too. Click here to see our breakdown of the Southeast and West. Today is the Southwest region.

Teams Left Dancing: (1) Kansas, (10) Florida State, (11) VCU, (12) Richmond

Games: Friday - (1) Kansas v. (12) Richmond 7:27 TBS, (10) Florida State v. (11) VCU 9:57 TBS (San Antonio)

Story Line: If your personal brackets are blown up it's likely the Southwest region is the reason for your pain. Top seeds like Notre Dame (2), Purdue (3), Louisville (4), Vanderbilt (5), and Georgetown (6) have all been sent packing. That leaves heavy favorite Kansas playing against teams more likely to be considered Cinderellas rather than champions. Can Kansas avoid the upset bug, and live up to expectations (something Bill Self coached teams have had issues with in the past) or can this region produce a double digit Final Four representative?

Most Likely Regional Final: I love the fact that the city of Richmond has two teams left playing and both happen to reside in the same Southwest region (Richmond, VCU). I am hopeful to see a gutsy, tough, Florida State team bring defense to Houston. I have, however, resided myself to the fact that Kansas will certainly be playing Sunday for the right to appear in the Final Four. Whom the Jayhawks will face is an interesting question. The Seminoles hammered Notre Dame and seem to have the experience and the toughness to beat the CAA rep VCU Rams, but I don't know if anyone can count VCU out? I'll say it's likely to be Kansas and Florida State, but VCU could be on a run similar to their conference neighbor George Mason was on back in 2006.

Breaking Down The Sweet 16 - West

2011-03-23T08:01:00.003-04:00

Each day here on the Blog and on the show we'll break down this year's Sweet 16 region by region. We are doing this despite the fact that my bracket is blown up and the fact that Syracuse is out. I'm a glutton for punishment and hopefully you are too. Click here to see our breakdown of the Southeast. Today is the West region.

Teams Left Dancing: (1) Duke, (2) San Diego State, (3) Connecticut, (5) Arizona

Games: Thursday - (3) Connecticut v. (2) San Diego State 7:15 CBS, (1) Duke v. (5) 9:45 CBS (Anaheim).

Story Line: San Diego State had an amazing year and their head coach, Steve Fisher, has seemingly redefined his career following his fall from grace at Michigan. The Aztecs actually won their first ever tourney game last week! However, the story lines out of the West Region revolve around Duke and Connecticut. More specifically, we're all watching the Blue Devils Kyrie Irving and the Huskies Kemba Walker. Irving, a star freshmen who missed the majority of the year with a toe injury, is back and could be the difference in helping Duke repeat as national champs. Conversely, Walker has been amazing all year long and over the last two weeks has led Connecticut to the Big East tourney title (playing five games in five days) and to the Sweet 16.

Most likely Regional Final: Yes San Diego State is a great story, and yes Arizona is actually still playing here, but it's all about Duke and Connecticut. Not only should both teams win in their semis, they both could win easily (although it should be noted that the Aztecs are playing very close to home). That sets up a battle of Mike Krzyzewski against Jim Calhoun. A battle of Iriving (and Nolan Smith) v. Walker. A battle, in all reality, of the Big East v. the ACC.

Breaking Down The Sweet 16 - Southeast

2011-03-22T12:23:00.002-04:00

Each day on the Blog and on the show we'll break down this year's Sweet 16 region by region. We are doing this despite the fact my bracket is blown up and the fact that Syracuse is out. I'm a glutton for punishment and hopefully you are too. Let's explore the Southeast region.

Teams Left Dancing: (2) Florida, (3) BYU, (4) Wisconsin, (8) Butler

Games: Thursday - (2) Florida v. (3) BYU 7:27 TBS, (4) Wisconsin v. (8) Butler 9:57 TBS - (New Orleans)

Story Line: - With the ouster of top seed Pittsburgh it looks as though the Southeast may be up for grabs. Although, it should be noted that the second, third, and fourth seeded teams are still alive. I think the nation will be interested in the Southeast to see BYU's Jimmer Fredette, coach Billy Donovan of the Gators (2 national titles already), and the Cinderella Bulldogs of Butler. Wisconsin, on the other hand, a team that lost a game two weeks ago by a score of 36 - 33, is getting zero coverage. These Badgers of Bo Ryan, however, can play solid enough defense to take the region.

Most Likely Regional Final: - Both regional semis should be outstanding (I don't think Butler can contractually win a game in the tournament by more than 2 points). You can make an argument for all the teams to win on Thursday, but I'll go with Florida and their commitment to defense to face Sconny and their commitment to defense. By the way, 'commitment to defense' is code for low scoring, ugly, 53 - 52 games. Having wrote that, I wouldn't be shocked at a BYU - Butler regional final either. There is something with Butler and Matt Howard right now that seems like it could be March Magic. Not to mention Fredette could shoot BYU to Houston. Looking at both game though, I see the Gators advancing to take on the Badgers.

Breaking Down The Bracket - East

2011-03-17T10:50:00.002-04:00

Each day here on the Blog leading up tot he start of the NCAA tournament (well the start of the now titled Second Round) we will break down a particular region. We're talking best games, sleepers, and other notable notes from the East, West, Southwest, and Southeast. Today we're breaking down the Southwest region. Click to see the West, Southeast and Southwest breakdowns.

Top Seeds: (1) Ohio State, (2) North Carolina, (3) Syracuse, (4) Kentucky

Analysis: First, let's be real here, the East is ridiculously loaded. The Big 10 regular season and tournament champ, the ACC regular season champ, and the SEC tourney champ are all among the top 4 seeds. UK was ranked in the top 20 all year and they are a four seed? Through in conference tourney champs, and dangerous teams, like Xavier and Washington and the winner of this region should just be crowned NCAA champs. It's likely the top seeds will hold for the first weekend and if that is the case the regional semis and finals will pit the Buckeyes against the Wildcats and the Tar Heels against the Orange.

Must Watch First Round Game: (6) Xavier v. (11) Marquette Friday TruTv 7:25 - I really want to see (8) George Mason v. (9) Villanova for so many reasons, but the winner of that is likely to lose in the next game (v. Ohio State). The winner of the Golden Eagles and the Musketeers could potentially reach the Sweet 16 and because it's the prelude to Syracuse's game, you know these two will play at least two overtimes.

Upset Pick: (12) Clemson v. (5) West Virginia Thursday CBS 12:15 - Here's my only real issue with the concept of the 'First Four.' The Tigers played Tuesday and crushed UAB and, despite getting into to Tampa at 4 in the morning Wednesday, they have confidence and are already one game experienced for the tourney. If fatigue is going to be an issue it would likely hit Clemson Saturday, not Thursday. I still think West Virginia is better and should win, but don't underestimate the value of playing an easy game on Tuesday for Clemson.

Darkhorse: (7) Washington - The Huskies ran the table in Los Angeles at the Pac 10 tournament last weekend for the second straight year. Last year's team used that momentum to reach the Sweet 16 and, although this Washington team isn't as good, I could see UW winning a game or two (or more) this season. With Isiah Thomas running the point for a team that can score quick the Huskies may be able to sneak up on the power teams in the East, including North Carolina.

Breaking Down The Bracket - Southwest

2011-03-16T08:14:00.002-04:00

Each day here on the Blog leading up tot he start of the NCAA tournament (well the start of the now titled Second Round) we will break down a particular region. We're talking best games, sleepers, and other notable notes from the East, West, Southwest, and Southeast. Today we're breaking down the Southwest region. Click to see the West and Southeast breakdowns.

Top Seeds: (1) Kansas, (2) Notre Dame, (3) Purdue, (4) Louisville

Analysis: Although Bill Self's Kansas Jayhawks have battled injury and off court issues all season, KU may be the toughest out in the tournament. They have the size inside with the Morris brothers and Josh Selby, even as a freshmen, could make a real name for himself this month. The challenge for the Jawhawks may not come until the Elite Eight against a talented Notre Dame team with Big East Player of the Year Ben Hansbrough. Those two teams should be locks to meet.

Must Watch First Round Game: (6) Georgetown v. (11) USC/VCU Friday TNT 9:55 - I like the 8/9 UNLV v. Illinois game and Texas A&M and Florida State could be a fight between the 7 seed Aggies and the 10 'Noles, but the Hoyas of Georgetown will be must watch basketball Friday. If, as head coach John Thompson III says, senior guard Chris Wright is healthy Georgetown could be a sleeper. If, as most think, Wright has not recovered from his broken hand Georgetown could be one and done. We'll find out Friday - which makes it a must watch!

Upset Pick: (12) Richmond v. (5) Vanderbilt Thursday TBS 4:10 - It happens every year. A 12 beats a 5 like clock work in March, and although I already have (12) Utah State over (5) Kansas State, I love the Spiders in this match up. Richmond is red hot coming off their Atlantic 10 tourney title and they have the shooters to beat Vandy's defense.

Darkhorse: (4) Louisville - The Cardinals have big wins this year over teams like Pittsburgh, Notre Dame, and Connecticut. Many have called this year the best coaching performance in Rick Pitino's career! Add shooters like Preston Knowles and Kyle Kuric and the Cards could be a dangerous team and they certainly will be a tough out.

Breaking Down The Bracket - Southeast

2011-03-15T11:09:00.003-04:00

Each day here on the Blog leading up to the start of the NCAA tournament (well the start of the now title Second Round) we will break down a particular region. We're talking best games, sleepers, and other notable notes from the East, West, Southwest, and Southeast. Today we take a look at the Southeast and you should click here to see our preview of the West.

Top Seeds: (1) Pittsburgh, (2) Florida, (3) BYU, (4) Wisconsin

Analysis: This region is a perfect example for the argument that the committee doesn't know how to seed teams. I hate the debate on which teams didn't get in to the field over the teams that did make it, but I do understand when experts question why certain teams earned specific seeds. Florida as a 2? Really? The bottom line for the Southeast is you should expect upsets.

Must Watch First Round Game: (6) St. John's v. (11) Gonzaga - 9:45 Thursday CBS - The Jonnies come into this Dance as a newbie. The tradition rich program hasn't been among the field in 10 years! Conversely, the Bulldogs/Zags of Gonzaga haven't missed in over 10 years, yet this may be the least heralded of all those teams. I'll be interested to see how St. John's handles the pressure of the tourney and how they handle missing senior forward D.J. Kennedy who tore his ACL against Syracuse last week.

Upset Pick: (12) Utah State v. (5) Kansas St. - 9:57 Thursday TruTV - For almost two weeks I have been on Belmont's bandwagon. They are a team that can absolutely beat Wisconsin in the first round, but I think the Badgers, who were upset last year in round two, will be more mentally ready this year. Therefore, I'm going Utah State over Kansas State because A. it's a 12 over a 5 (always have at least one) and the Wildcats are an underachieving bunch who turned it on very late in the year. Remember the names Tai Wesley and and Brian Green, two Aggies that will give Frank Martin's K State headaches.

Dark Horse Pick: Is this even a question? (7) Michigan State has made 6 Final Fours in the past 12 years! Tom Izzo seems to take the Shaquille O'Neal approach to the season. Which is to say the Spartans loaf around until the postseason starts. Plus, look at Michigan State's road, a not-ready-for-prime-time UCLA in rd. 1, possibly an overrated Florida in rd 2, maybe BYU without Brandon Davies in the Sweet 16. That's cake to Izzo!

Breaking Down The Bracket - West

2011-03-14T11:04:00.003-04:00

Each day here on the Blog leading up to the start of the NCAA tournament (well the start of the now title Second Round) we will break down a particular region. We're talking best games, sleepers, and other notable notes from the East, West, Southwest, and Southeast. Today we take a look at the West.

Top 4 Seeds - (1) Duke, (2) San Diego State, (3) Connecticut, (4) Texas

Analysis: Last season Duke was considered the easiest road to the Final Four. This season it's likely the defending champion Blue Devils may have the toughest road. Duke may have to face teams like Arizona, Texas, and Connecticut just to reach Houston! The Huskies of UConn will be an interesting and entertaining team to keep an eye on. Can Jim Calhoun's bunch overcome the fatigue of playing five games in five days last week/weekend and stay hot enough to win this region? Duke is the favorite, but Kemba Walker may be on a run unlike anything we have ever seen.

Must Watch 1st Round Game - (6) Cincinnati v. (11) Missouri - 9:50 p.m. TNT - Thursday. The Bearcats came on late in the season earning quality wins over Louisville, Georgetown twice, and Marquette. Meanwhile, Mizzou was a perpetual top 25 team until a late season collapse. At one point Cincy looked like an NIT team while Missouri looked like a top seed. Something will give here.

Upset Pick - (13) Oakland v. (4) Texas Friday 12:15 CBS - It's not the most likely upset pick out there, but Oakland is a very good team and the Longhorns haven't been the same team over the last month of the season. The Golden Grizzlies have only lost one game since December 28 and they are second in the nation for points per game (86 ppg) and field goal shooting (49%). Oakland did beat Tennessee this season and gave Michigan State a big scare early in the year, I like Texas as a tough out, but this game will be a challenge.

Dark Horse Team - (3) Connecticut - I hate that the Huskies are coming in to the Big Dance dead tired. The Fighting Kemba Walkers won five games in five days in the toughest basketball conference in the country. I don't care if they are teenagers or not, that will be tough to overcome. However, if they aren't too gassed, I like Connecticut's potential road to the Final Four. Again, fatigue will be an issue, but there is something to be said for the Huskies beating five teams (4 ranked) in one week. That stretch will be tougher than any stretch they face in the NCAA tournament.

Matt Mc's Sports Fix Tournament Challenge

2011-03-08T12:18:00.003-05:00

We are back again for our third annual Matt Mc's Sports Fix Tournament Challenge. Once again it is available courtesy of ESPN.com and, just as usual, it is 100% free!

- This year we will be awarding free Little Caesar's Pizzas to to the top 5 point getters from each weekend, with the overall winner earning the grand prize. So not only will the person who earns the most points for the entire tournament win, but just one good weekend can earn you something too!

- Please click here to head to our league page - this is a private league (as we want listeners and web site vistors only to participate) with the password being ESPN Radio. Sign up because Selection Sunday is this weekend and the actual tournament starts up Tuesday and Wednesday next week with the First Four!

Another One Seed For Syracuse?

2011-03-07T10:59:00.002-05:00

OK, stay with me here because I'm sure the headline leads you to believe that I am about to homer up an argument for Syracuse to be a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament. How could a team that is currently fourth in it's own conference and a team that, at one low point, lost four straight games this season be considered one of the top four in the country?

- This is all hypothetical, but it's not completely out of the question (and yes, I am an Orange homer). Let's start with the facts, as of right now Syracuse is sitting at 25-6 overall RPI of 18 according to College RPI. The Orange are in the middle of a five game win streak including road victories over then ranked Villanova and Georgetown. Next, let's look ahead to SU's projected road in the Garden (assuming the better seeded teams win); St. John's (No. 22 RPI), Pittsburgh (No. 7), and Notre Dame (No. 9) in the finals.

- For Syracuse to have a shot at a top seed they would obviously have to win the Big East tournament - so that five game streak becomes an 8 game streak and it then includes victories over the ranked Red Storm, Panthers, and Irish. Presumably, the Orange RPI would go through the roof and it would bring them to 28 victories on the season (winners of 8 out of their last 10). Pretty impressive, right?

- Of the teams supposedly being considered for number one seeds Ohio State is a lock and I think Kansas is as close to a lock as possible. Give them both their conference tournament titles (eliminating Texas and Purdue in the meantime from No. 1 seed selection), so that would then leave two No. 1 slots open. I would think Pittsburgh and possibly even Notre Dame have claims to both of those spots. Obviously, Syracuse, in my opinion, could jump those two teams by beating both in New York City (semifinals over Pitt, and championship over ND). The other teams up for one, or maybe both, one seeds are Duke and North Carolina. If UNC beats Duke again in the ACC title game the Tar Heels knock the Blue Devils out of any No. 1 consideration. Creating a mess for the committee.

- You have have six loss teams like UNC, SU, Notre Dame, and Pittsburgh (again, assuming UNC wins the ACC, and SU wins the Big East) all up for two one spots. Let's give the 'third' one spot to the Tar Heels for winning the ACC regular season and then the ACC tourney. So, Ohio State, Kansas, and Carolina have one seeds. There would then be one final spot open and, looking around, Syracuse would make just as good of a claim as anyone for that one seed.

- Effectively, SU needs to win the Big East facing the toughest competition possible and then they need help. It's more likely a run through the Garden would lead to a 2 seed, which nobody would complain about, but in a season where only a few teams have stood out, SU could fall into their second straight one seed.

Playoff Power Rankings - Divisional Round

2011-01-11T12:54:00.002-05:00

The divisional round is here in the NFL! That means we are down to the best 8 teams left playing football. OK, 7 teams. Sorry Seattle, one win does not a make a good team. Here are our rankings of the last eight playing - which is to write - here are the teams in between New England at the top and Seattle at the bottom.

New England - Is there any question? You know how people are saying that the Jets and the Patriots split there games this season (both winning on their home field)? I don't buy it. If there is one team that is a 180 degrees different from what it was in September, it's New England.
Pittsburgh - I thought the Steelers were a lock for the AFC tile game a week ago. But after watching Baltimore play and Pittsburgh not, I'm actually starting to doubt the Steelers. Can Troy (Polamalu) and Ben (Roethlisberger) (first name basis with both) play to their fullest extent? If either are limited Pittsburgh playoff run will also be limited.
Baltimore - I never thought I would be one of those 'Ravens Guys' all high on the aging defense and Joe Flacco. All season I complained that Baltimore didn't do enough offensively to win games and I complained their defense was aging in key spots. Those complaints are still there, and quite valid thank you, but after BMore's beat down of KC, this team could be that hot wildcard team that sprouts every year.
Atlanta - The happiest fans in the NFL were not Seattle's after the Seahawks took down New Orleans. Nope. The happiest group of football lovers resided in Atlanta. The Falcons now will face an overrated Green Bay team - and potential home games against either Seattle or Chicago. Not exactly the toughest draw ever, eh?
Chicago - I honestly forgot to rank the Bears last week in our Wildcard rankings. Whoops. The Bears too should be happy that Seattle took out the defending champs, but, Chicago did lose to the Seahawks earlier in the year! Well, that game was in Seattle....oh? It was in Chicago? Could Seattle be four quarters away from an NFC title game?
Green Bay - I was probably the only person in America who was thinking that Aaron Rodgers played a pedestrian game on Sunday in Philadelphia. Of course the Packers receivers didn't help him out either. Still, to me it's the Green Bay defense that will keep them in games, or keep them from winning games. Against Atlanta we'll know within the first quarter if the Pack have enough to stop Matt Ryan or not.
New York Jets - The Jets may have put aside some Peyton Manning demons on Saturday night in Indianapolis, but I'm guessing they're still recovering from that 45-3 beat down to the Patriots from earlier this season. Tom Brady owns a lot of teams, so you're in good company Jets fans. Also, lost in the win over Indy was the fact that QB Mark Sanchez was missing receivers by about 5 feet for most of that game. His injured shoulder is probably going to be a bigger deal than Rex Ryan would ever let on about.
Seattle - Congrats, you won a playoff game. You're still below .500 and you robbed the world of New Orleans taking on Atlanta for the NFC. Thanks.

Playoff Power Rankings

2011-01-04T12:11:00.001-05:00

It's our second annual MMSF NFL Playoff Power Poll. We'll rank every team still playing throughout the playoffs right here on the Blog and then talk about it on the show later. Obviously, New England reigns supreme here, but the rest of the order is a complete toss up. You think Pittsburgh's the second best team? I believe it. You like New Orleans to get hot and win their second straight Super Bowl? Sounds good to me. You think Seattle can....just stop right there. Seattle stinks.

New England - I think I've thrown more NFL interceptions than Tom Brady over the last two months. Can you believe he threw one touchdown pass in every game this season? This team, with all the nobodies that Brady makes look good, is elite. Well, as elite as the NFL gets now a days.
Pittsburgh - The Steelers more than any other team not named Philadelphia needed to get a bye week (Indianapolis doesn't count because so many of their guys are on IR - a bye would be worthless). If the OLine protects Ben Roethlisberger and if Troy Polamula can move Pittsburgh will be a tough out.
Philadelphia - We're around a month away from an all Pennsylvania Super Bowl! Crap, did I just jinx that? Anyway, if healthy the Eagles are the best NFC team. A defense coming around and an offense that is as explosive as any unit since the '99 Rams. The issues obviously are is Mike Vick's leg, DeSean Jackson's everything, and MLB Stewart Bradley's elbow. The Packers could easily win on Sunday, but the Eagles, just as easily, could run to Dallas.
New Orleans - You know who's not complaining about a 7-9 team making the playoffs? The Saints! New Orleans has a chance to pound the Seahawks for the second time this season (34-19 week 11) which would give the Saints confidence and momentum.
Atlanta - The last time the Falcons were the one seed in the NFC playoffs was 1980! The last championship for the city of Atlanta came with the Braves in baseball back in 1995. This is a title drought that no one talks about because, honestly, no one cares.
Green Bay - The Packers are scary with Aaron Rodgers at QB throwing to wideouts Greg Jennings and Donald Driver on offense and Clay Matthews Jr. running around busting people on defense. The caveat here is that Green Bay has zero running attack and they are prone to giving up big plays.
Kansas City - Isn't it weird that one week, one game, can change everyone's opinion on a team? All of a sudden Vegas sharps are hating and fans expect a loss. That's what happened with the Chiefs week 17 egg laying at home against Oakland. The thing is, one bad game does not a season make. Matt Cassel is actually good at QB and the Chiefs run the ball better than any other team in the NFL. Arrowhead is still tough and, in fact, KC's only home loss this year was in week 17 to those Raiders.
Baltimore - Disagree with this? I've said all year I'm not on the Ravens bandwagon. They rarely give RB Ray Rice the ball and their pass defense is atrocious (21st in the NFL). Baltimore is a player or two away (mostly on defense) from being elite, but they're not at all there yet. Could they win a game or two here? Sure. The Super Bowl? No way.
New York Jets - The Jets, Ravens, Packers, Saints, and Falcons are all the same to me. Major issues on one side of the ball, in the Jets case it's the offense, with an experienced and talented other side (the defense). Coming in as the 6 spot in the AFC is a death sentence. Win at Indianapolis and you win a trip to Foxborough. Heesh.
Indianapolis - This resurgence, if you want to call it that, has come against weak competition. The thing everyone seems to forget is that as long as Peyton Manning is alive the Colts will make the playoffs. I wasn't surprised when Indy caught Jacksonville and won the AFC South after everyone thought the season was over, and I won't be surprised when Manning throws a pick (either against New York or in Pittsburgh) to cost his team the game.

MMSF Power 10 Week Sixteen

2010-12-28T10:26:00.003-05:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog, and later on the show, we unveil our Matt Mc's Sports Fix Power 10. This is a snap shot of the top tier of teams in the league based on the games to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Email us at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com to have your thoughts read on air!

New England 13-2 (1) - It's been over two months since Pats QB Tom Brady threw an interception. Tell me again why people are wondering who the MVP is for this season?
Philadelphia 10-4 (3) - How can you possibly postpone a game because it may snow badly by the end of it? Think about this too, the Eagles will play Tuesday night and then follow it up with a huge Sunday game. I blame Brett Favre.
New Orleans 11-4 (5) - The Saints went into Atlanta and beat the Falcons. That's the second loss at home for Matt Ryan and company in the last 17 games. I think New Orleans is rounding into form.
Baltimore 11-4 (4) - The Ravens had less than 260 total yards against Cleveland, yet they beat the Browns by 10 points. That sums up Baltimore perfectly to me.
Atlanta 12-3 (2) - A 3 loss team coming in at No. 5? Beat someone Atlanta, BEAT SOMEONE.
Pittsburgh 11-4 (6) - Either the Steelers rebounded perfectly last week against Carolina, or Carolina stinks and Pittsburgh is still too banged up to make a run.
Chicago 11-4 (7) - How about this scenario: The Jets v. the Ravens and the Bears v. the Falcons in the two conference championship games? Four teams that have talent, but four teams I just do not buy into at all.
Kansas City 10-5 (10) - The Chiefs clinched the AFC West and have double digit wins on the year. K.C. could be a top three seed and, with their running game specifically, they are dangerous!
Indianapolis 9-6 (NR) - Peyton Manning. Peyton Manning. Peyton Manning. Pey....get the picture?
New York Jets 10-5 (8) - The Jets are in and it looks like they will play at Kansas City in round one. A month ago I would have jumped on NY, now? The Chiefs haven't lost at home this season!

MMSF Power 10 Week Fifteen

2010-12-21T11:20:00.002-05:00

New England 12-2 (1) - Was the scare on Sunday night against the Aaron Rodger-less Matt Flynn led Pack an aberration or was it a sign of something? Remember in '07 when the Pats closed out that undefeated season with some close games and clunkers? I say it was a one game issue and New England will be fine.
Atlanta 12-2 (2) - Has there been a quieter 12-2 start to a season ever? The Falcons are all about to secure the one spot and home field advantage, yet I'm pretty sure Fox, CBS, and NBC have yet to show a single game this season.
Philadelphia 10-4 (5) - For two quarters on Sunday I was ready to throw in the towel on the Eagles season. For the other two quarters I was making plans for a trip to Dallas in early February!
Baltimore 10-4 (7) - All season I have said the Ravens didn't have the look of a Super Bowl contender. Finally, in week 15, Baltimore decides to run the ball with Ray Rice and they beat a legit team in New Orleans. I'm still not totally sold, but maybe BMore is starting to come around.
New Orleans 10-4 (3) - The Saints should miss out on the NFC South and be forced into the Wild Card in the NFC. More than likely they will be rewarded with a trip to an NFC West team for game one in the playoffs. Not exactly the worst fate ever for a defending Super Bowl champ, right?
Pittsburgh 10-4 (4) - The offense is struggling to score points and the defense is banged up. The Ravens may be surging and the Steelers may be going the exact opposite way.
Chicago 10-4 (6) - The Bears won the NFC North! Two more wins, or an Eagles loss, and Chicago is the two seed in the NFC. You still don't believe in them do you?
New York Jets 10-4 (NR) - Lost in the win at hurting Pittsburgh is the fact that the Jets still have major issues. The Jets last rushing TD came in week 5.
San Diego 8-6 (NR) - Would anyone want to see the Chargers in the playoffs?
Kansas City 9-5 (NR) - The Chiefs need to win out to save the world from another late San Diego run.

MMSF Power 10 Week Fourteen

2010-12-14T12:51:00.002-05:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog, and later on the show, we unveil our Matt Mc's Sports Fix Power 10. This is a snap shot of the top tier of teams in the league based vEvery Tuesday here on the Blog, and later on the show, we unveil our Matt Mc's Sports Fix Power 10. This is a snap shot of the top tier of teams in the league based on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Email us at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com to have your thoughts read on air!on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Email us at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com to have your thoughts read on air!

New England 11-2 (1) - Remember when there was a question about which team was the best in the National Football League? After getting blasted by the Browns, New England has been unstoppable on offense. The scary part? The Pats D is playing better too.
Atlanta 11-2 (2) - Admit it, you don't think a team should even be ranked two out of respect for New England. The Falcons should have Dome field advantage in the NFC, which could lead to Philadelphia v. Atlanta for the NFC title. How obvious will it be that Roger Goodell will not allow for that? Blatantly obvious or beyond blatantly obvious?
New Orleans 10-3 (4) - In two weeks the Saints and the Falcons will play with everything on the line. Until then, I don't know if I buy either of them.
Pittsburgh 10-3 (3) - This team is flirting with injuries it seems like on every play. Offensive line issues, Ben Roethlisberger's nose/knee/foot, defensive line issues. At some point there has to be a breaking point, figuratively and literally, right?
Philadelphia 9-4 (7) - Sunday, SUNDAY, SUNDAY!
New York Giants 9-4 (NR) - Eagles v. Giants at the New Meadowlands, 1 p.m. This time it's for all the NFC East marbles.
Baltimore 9-4 (8) - Finally, the Ravens had a game in which their opponent was not only just out of the playoff picture, they had huge holes all over the defense. What does Baltimore do in said game? They go to OT with Houston! Say what you want, this is not a Super Bowl team.
Chicago 9-4 (6) - I'm not punishing the Bears for getting whooped up on by New England. Quite frankly, it's almost not fair to have to play the Pats right now. Actually, after Minnesota's egg laid on Monday in Detroit against New York (still weird to write that) and the Packers season collapsing, I'll go ahead and give Chicago the NFC North right now.
Jacksonville 8-5 (NR) - Did you know that the Jaguars are second in rushing in the NFL? That's why they have 8 wins and control of the AFC South. Did you know that the Jaguars are 29th in passing? That's why they'll probably still lose on Sunday at Indy and miss the playoffs!
N/A - First time all year, but really, who are you putting here? The Jets? C'mon! Kansas City? No way. There just isn't a team that fits the label of 10th best. In fact, there really isn't a team that fits the 9 or 8 spot either.

MMSF Power 10 Week Thirteen

2010-12-07T08:17:00.002-05:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog, and later on the show, we unveil our Matt Mc's Sports Fix Power 10. This is a snap shot of the top tier of teams in the league based on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Email us at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com to have your thoughts read on air!

New England 10-2 (1) - Is there any question as to which team is the best right now? Good God did the Pats dismantle the Jets on Monday night. It's beginning to look a lot like winter outside in the North Country and it's beginning to look a lot like a Patriots Super Bowl in the NFL.
Atlanta 10-2 (2) - The AFC is likely to go through New England and the NFC is just as likely to go through Atlanta. Even after ten wins I still don't buy into the Falcons. Yet.
Pittsburgh 9-3 (5) - Their offensive line is in shambles, Ben Roethlisberger has a broken nose and maybe a broken foot, and still they just win games. How loaded will the AFC playoff be by the way?
New Orleans 9-3 (6) - It will be interesting to see how the NFC South plays out with both the Saints and the Falcons fighting for the division. The more New Orleans plays the more I believe they could win it all, again.
New York Jets 9-3 (2) - Are you serious? The biggest regular season game in franchise history and the Jets lose by 42 points? On Monday Night Football? I still believe that New York is one of the better AFC teams, but there is no getting the taste of this clunker out of your mouth.
Chicago 9-3 (7) - Jay Cutler has thrown five TDs and zero picks in the last two games and the Bears are probably two more win away from at least an NFC Wild Card bid. Chicago, for what's worth, has not lost since I picked them to lose to Buffalo (5-0).
Philadelphia 8-4 (8) - Hard to believe, but the Eagles played a game last week. I think we all forget about the Thursday nighters, but Philly beat Houston and Mike Vick threw for 300 plus yards and was the leading rusher for his Eagles.
Baltimore 8-4 (4) - Is the NFL world starting to catch up with what I have been saying? The Ravens seem like a Super Bowl contender until you peel back the layers. BMore struggles running the ball and their defense is aging in all the wrong spots.
Green Bay 8-4 (9) - The best thing about the Packers win over San Francisco? Their throw back uniforms! Why do people hate it when teams wear them? I loved the Pack's.
Kansas City 8-4 (10) - What a Sunday for KC head coach Todd Haley. First his team beats Denver, extracting revenge on Josh McDaniels causing McDaniels to lose his job, then the Raiders beat the Chargers effectively giving the Chiefs the AFC West.

MMSF Top 10 Week 14

2010-12-06T08:43:00.002-05:00

Every Monday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, this is not a prediction on how the season will end. Click here to see the latest rankings from the Associated Press and Coaches Polls.

Auburn - 13-0 (1) - Although I would have loved to see chaos in the BCS, I think we can all agree the title game the BCS gave us is going to be entertaining!
Oregon - 12-0 (2) - I mean the high flying Ducks offense v. Cam Newton? Vegas gave Oregon the slight favorite status, but can't you talk yourself into both teams winning?
TCU - 12-0 (3) - Yes the Horned Frogs missed out on playing for the title despite being undefeated. But, TCU will play in the Rose Bowl! Think the Pac-10 presidents love that concept!?
Stanford - 11-1 (4) - The best one loss team in the country is set to play the best two loss team in the country (Virginia Tech) in the Orange Bowl. I don't really care for this game, but it's not the worst match up possible.
Boise State - 11-1 (5) - What does the number five team in the MMSF Top 10 poll get for another amazing season? The freakin Las Vegas Bowl?! The Broncos will take on Utah in what could have and should have been a preview to the Mountain West championship.
Wisconsin - 11-1 (6) - If I had to rank the BCS bowl games I would put the title game at one and Wisconsin v. TCU in the Rose Bowl at No. 2!
Ohio State - 11-1 (7) - What would be No. 3 of the BCS bowls? How about Terrelle Pryor v. Ryan Mallett? Ohio State v. Arkansas in the Sugar is a must watch for college football fans and for NFL scouts.
Michigan State - 11-1 (8) - Of all the non-BCS games I think Sparty taking on Alabama in the Capital One Bowl promises to be one of the best. However, I think a three loss SEC team is about to spank the co-Big 10 champ.
Arkansas - 10-2 (9) - Pryor and Mallett. Sugar Bowl.
Oklahoma - 11-2 (10) - Sticking with that ranking theme, the BCS bowl game on the bottom? The Fiesta of Oklahoma v. Connecticut. I'll write this now, though, RB Jordan Todman is about to run all over the Sooners.

MMSF Power 10 Week Twelve

2010-11-29T11:28:00.003-05:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our Matt Mc's Sports Fix NFL Power 10. This is a snapshot of the top tier teams in the league based on the games played until this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Please email your thoughts to mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com.

New England 9-2 (1) - Tom Brady had a perfect QB rating on Thanksgiving against Detroit. Again, doesn't this team and this season remind you a lot of 2001, 2003, 2004....?
New York Jets 9-2 (2) - The Jets have done what is asked of them, win games. The finicky fans, however, are all worried because New York has yet to play a full four quarters. With nine wins in eleven games, isn't that a good thing? Oh by the way, our No. 1 plays our No. 2 next Monday!
Atlanta 9-2 (7) - A home win over Green Bay, a five game win streak, and just a trip to Tampa Bay keeping the Dirty Birds from no worse than 13 wins. Things are good right now for Mike Smith's team. One thing to keep an eye on with Atlanta is the fact teams can run on them. The only problem for the NFL, so few teams actually run the ball anymore.
Baltimore 8-3 (6) - Are you like me? Did you draft Ray Rice in your fantasy football league this year? If you are then you feel the same disdain for Rice as I do. The Ravens as a team had a nice win over Tampa at home on Sunday though. So there's that.
Pittsburgh 8-3 (4) - The offensive line is in shambles, Ben Roethlisburger hurt his foot, and it seems like the secondary has taken a step back. Plus, Stevie Johnson!!! Ohhh no he dropped it?! These issues could cause a late season collapse, or another patented late season Steelers run.
New Orleans 8-3 (8) - An ugly, lucky, win at Dallas is still considered a win. The Saints are cruising and will take away a playoff bid from a potential 10 plus win team (Giants?)
Chicago 8-3 (10) - Jay Cutler, or as he was known in the McClusky household on Sunday night, 'Jay #$%# Cutler, threw 4 TDs and had zero picks against Philadelphia. Congrats. The Bears changed my mind about them in their win over Philly. The thing is, their schedule just gets worse and I still can't seem them winning 10 games.
Philadelphia 7-4 (3) - I don't so much mind that the real Birds of the NFL lost in Chicago, it's the whole giving up 31 points to a crap Bears offense. The Eagles were playing without Asante Samuel and Ellis Hobbs, both corners were out with injury, but there really isn't a plausible excuse for that game. Very disconcerting for Philly fans.
Green Bay 7-4 (5) - Aaron Rodgers played brilliantly in a tough road loss to Atlanta and, despite the L, further proved to me that the Packers are going to be a tough out in the playoffs. Think about this, the offensive MVP for the league and the defensive MVP (Clay Matthews Jr.) for the league could both potentially play on the same team.
Kansas City 7-4 (NR) - Which QB has thrown for 22 TDs and just 4 picks on the season? This guy, we'll give you that, yes, he is a guy, has thrown 18 TDs and just one interception in the last seven games! Clearly it's Matt Cassel as this is the Chiefs spot. Still shocking though, right?

MMSF Top 10 Week 13

2010-11-28T11:25:00.003-05:00

Every Monday here on the Blog - and later on MMSF - we unveil our top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, this is not a prediction on the season will end. Click here to see the latest rankings in the Associated Press and Coaches Polls.

Auburn - 12-0 (2) - I don't care what year it is and I don't care what the level of competition is, whenever a team goes undefeated through the SEC, said team is No. 1 in my book. Cam Newton is amazing and the Tigers, for this week, are the top team.
Oregon - 11-0 (1) - There is no chance the Ducks lose to in-state rival Oregon State this weekend, right? There is no chance that Auburn loses to South Carolina this weekend too, right?
TCU - 12-0 (4) - We're one more crazy weekend away from the possibility of the Horned Frogs playing for the national championship. You think QB Andy Dalton and the TCU defense is up for a game like that? Think again.
Stanford - 11-1 (6) - The Cardinal have one of the best defenses in the country and they have Andrew Luck as QB. In a playoff Stanford would be the 'hot team no one wants to play.'
Boise State - 10-1 (3) - One missed field goal kept the Broncos away from a possible BCS title game or the Rose Bowl. Ouch.
Wisconsin - 11-1 (6) - I actually hate putting Scony here, what with the Badgers running up the score like crazy (83 against Indiana, 70 against Northwestern). The thing is though, Wisconsin is playing too well not to reward them. In all honesty, it doesn't matter who is ranked here or lower.
Ohio State - 11-1 (10) - The Buckeyes fall in the middle of the Big 10 teams.
Michigan State - 11-1 (NR) - And the Spartans round out the Big 10 Three.
Arkansas - 10-2 (NR) - The more games the Buffalo Bills win the less likely it becomes we all hear, 'The Buffalo Bills select Ryan Mallett' in April.
Oklahoma - 10-2 (NR) - The Sooners beat Oklahoma State in Bedlam and should win the Big 12 title next weekend. Their reward? The Connecticut Huskies!

MMSF Power 10 Week Eleven

2010-11-22T08:03:00.003-05:00

New England 8-2 (1) - Tom Brady over Peyton Manning just about every time. Book it. By the way, the Manning QBs threw six picks combined on Sunday. Heesh.
New York Jets 8-2 (2) - The Jets have won three games in a row (good). The Jets have needed OT to beat the Lions and Browns and had to comeback in the final minute to beat the Texans (not good). Whether or not you buy in on New York, Rex Ryan's boys have 8 wins in 10 games.
Philadelphia 7-3 (3) - Everyone talks about Mike Vick, DeSean Jackson, and the rest of the Eagles offense for good reason. The thing everyone seems to be missing is that the defense isn't bad either. Eli Manning threw three picks against Philly on Sunday and their defense is allows less than 100 yards rushing per game.
Pittsburgh 7-3 (4) - Did you hear and read the 'experts' that said Oakland could hang with the Steelers? Well, the Raiders did have a 3 - 0 lead on Sunday in Pittsburgh. Then the Steelers went on a 35 - 0 run to end the game.
Green Bay 7-3 (5) - Aaron Rodgers officially stuck the dagger in Brett Favre's heart on Sunday in Minnesota. The Pack have won 4 straight, are allowing only 14.6 points per game, and some how are behind Chicago in the NFC North.
Baltimore 7-3 (8) - The Ravens beat the Panthers. That's all that matters, right? I shouldn't pay attention to the fact that Carolina's Brian St. Pierre got his team within 10 points in the second half. In fact, no one pay attention to that, just keep acting like this Ravens defense is as good as they have been.
Atlanta 8-2 (7) - I keep trying to get the Falcons higher in the poll, but they haven't beaten anyone.
New Orleans 7-3 (9) - Don't look now but Saints QB Drew Brees leads the league in TD passes (22) and New Orleans has Dallas, Cincinnati, and St. Louis up on the docket. The champs are rolling.
Indianapolis 6-4 (6) - Down 31 - 14 to New England Peyton Manning almost brought his Colts all the way back. Had Indy won this game I would have ranked Peyton, not the Colts, in the top 4.
Chicago 7-3 (NR) - Nope. The Bears couldn't beat a single team on this list. Keep in mind they have the Eagles at Solider Field on Sunday.

MMSF Top 10 Week 12

2010-11-21T16:12:00.002-05:00

Every Monday here on the Blog - and later on MMSF - we unveil our top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, this is not a prediction on how the season will end. Click here to see the latest rankings in the Associated and Coaches Polls.

Oregon - 10-0 (1) -The happiest person in college football in regard to the Cam Newton saga may be Oregon's LaMichael James. James' is the best running back in the country that you probably haven't seen play.
Auburn - 11-0 (2) - We've waited for this game for what seems like months. The Tigers travel to Tuscaloosa to take on the Crimson Tide!
Boise State - 10-0 (3) - Just like Auburn going to Alabama, the Broncos travel to #18 Nevada. OK, it's not quite the same thing traveling to Nevada, but Boise better be afraid, be very afraid. By the way, anyone keeping track that Virginia Tech is up to #13?
TCU - 11-0 (4) - I don't care what level of football you're playing, if your team holds opponents to 10.9 points per game, you're a legit team. That's of course what the Horned Frogs are holding their opponents too, good for best in the country. Could they beat Oregon or Auburn? We'll never know.
Stanford - 10-1 (6) - Stanford's only loss of the season came at the No. 1 team in the country. Since then? The Cardinal rattled off 6 straight.
Wisconsin - 10-1 (7) - RBs John Clay and James White both should cross 1,000 yards rushing for the season and QB Scott Tolzien has passed for over 2,000 yards already. Can you believe that Wisconsin has an offense this good?
LSU - 10-1 (5) - I've resided to the fact that Les Miles will win every game. Period. However, it's pretty clear that the Tigers are smoke and mirrors after another close game against another bad team (this time Ole Miss).
Oklahoma State - 10-1 (10) - There's no way Oklahoma State is the 8th best team in the country, but good God are they fun to watch. Of all the 'Must Watch' games next weekend, Ok. State and OU should be on the top of any list.
Alabama - 9-2 (NR) - Honestly, this ranking is more for what they have done the past two seasons combined, rather than what the Tide have done this season alone. Simply put though, would you be surprised for Nick Saban's Tide roll the Tigers of Auburn next weekend?
Ohio State - 10-1 (NR) - The Buckeyes have one win over a team currently ranked in the Top 25 polls. That win came on Saturday in Ames against Iowa. Make of that what you will.

MMSF Power 10 Week Ten

2010-11-15T11:00:00.003-05:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our Matt Mc's Sports Fix NFL Power 10. This is a snapshot of the top tier teams in the league based on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Please email in your thoughts at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com.

New England 7-2 (3) - Nothing epitomizes the 2010 National Football League season other than the last two Patriot games. Blown at 3-6 Cleveland and blow out last week's No. 1 Pittsburgh Sunday night. I'm not at all sold on New England at this moment, but, at this point, that means nothing. That Steeler win was probably the best of the season by any team.
New York Jets 7-2 (4) - The Jets had the ball for almost 50 minutes against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Sounds impressive right? My father never understood why that stat means so much and this game is a perfect example. If Chansi Stuckey doesn't fumble the ball the Browns, with a rook QB, beat New York. If I'm a Jet fan I would be more concerned with that anemic offense than I would be happy with the team's 5-0 road record.
Philadelphia 6-3 (6) - The Eagles have crushed the Falcons, without Mike Vick (and with DeSean Jackson leaving early due to injury) and they beat the Colts with those two healthy. With Monday's beat down at Washington Philly becomes the team to beat in the NFC and a true Super Bowl contender (yeah baby!). Vick is the MVP too, no doubt about that either.
Pittsburgh 6-3 (1) - See the Patriots bio and add a more negative tone. The Steelers have some great wins this season, but they were throttled by New England at home on a Sunday night. That OLine may be a reason ring no. 7 doesn't come to Rooney family.
Green Bay 6-3 (9) - No team needed a bye week more than the Pack. Although, with 10 on the IR it's not like time is going to bring those players back this season. I'll continue to buy in on Green Bay so long as Clay Matthews Jr. is playing.
Indianapolis 6-3 (7) - Thanks to injuries the brutal AFC South has turned into the ugly AFC West. Indy has a slim lead in the division, but with games at New England and home against San Diego next up, the South winner may have 6 or 7 losses.
Atlanta 7-2 (10) - A lower than expect ranking, no? I don't care though, the Falcons have a quality home win over Baltimore and a quality road win at New Orleans and honestly I'm not sure if either of those are really that 'quality.'
Baltimore 6-3 (2) - The Ravens have four opponents left ahead of them with a losing record. By the time the playoffs hit Baltimore will have something near 11 wins and everyone will be loving them. I, however, still will see a team with an average defense (especially against the pass) and a team without a consistent run game.
New Orleans 6-3 (NR) - Drew Brees, yada yada yada Sean Payton, yada yada yada, Super Bowl champs. I don't trust this team at all, but it's hard to erase the images of the 2009 playoffs and Super Bowl.
New York Giants 6-3 (5) - A road trip to Philadelphia will settle which team is truly the best in the NFC and it should raise the ole temperature of the Tom Coughlin's seat. For those that trust in Eli Manning games like Sunday against Dallas will forever haunt you. By the way that pick six Manning tossed in the first half was 100% his fault and not wide out Hakeem Nicks,' like Fox announcer Troy ~~McClure~~ Aikman said it was.

MMSF Top 10 Week 11

2010-11-14T07:04:00.004-05:00

Every Monday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, this is not a prediction on how the season will end. Click here to see the latest rankings for the Associated Press and Coaches Polls.

Oregon - 10-0 (1) - The Ducks were held to 15 points at Cal! That right there is a Stop The Presses moment. Oregon's previous low for the season was 42 points. Arizona and a trip to Corvallis for the Civil War against Oregon State.
Auburn - 11-0 (2) - Cam Newton started and played great against Georgia (over 300 yards of total offense alone) despite mounting rumors of cheating. Will Newton start the Iron Bowl? At this point, if you are Tigers head coach Gene Chizik, you have to play him. It's all or nothing for Auburn.
Boise State - 9-0 (4) - Kellen Moore and company blew out Idaho on Friday night, which begs the question: Have you seen that barn Idaho plays in? That had to be the strangest game I have ever watched. It seemed like a CFL game being played in an AFL arena.
TCU - 11-0 (3) - Was there a worse Saturday in college football than what the Horned Frogs experienced? First, TCU blows a big lead at home against San Diego State and has to hang on to win 40 - 35. Then Utah, a team the Frogs crushed last week to validate themselves nationally, was crushed by a bad Notre Dame team 28-3! Heesh.
LSU - 9-1 (5) - The Tigers have no chance at the SEC title and no chance at the national title. Those are odds that LSU head man Les Miles loves! Some how, some way, the Tigers will win the '10 championship.
Stanford - 9-1 (6) - The Cardinal are the best one loss team in the country. Period.
Wisconsin - 9-1 (7) - Scony is up next at Michigan to take on Greg Robinson and that horrible Wolverine defense. The Badgers, with James White and John Clay, put up 83 against Indiana, is 100 possible at the Big House?
Nebraska - 9-1 (8) - Pretty boring right? The top 10 has stayed the exact same, save for Boise jumping TCU. So I'll take this space to ask you, can you believe that Syracuse is going bowling?!
Arkansas - 8-2 (10) - There ya go, another small change. Ryan Mallett gets another chance against a top 5 team when LSU comes calling.
Oklahoma State - 9-1 (NR) - The Cowboys have scored 40 or more points in a game five times! Imagine a playoff game between OSU and Oregon? Also, did you know that the Pac-10 (no relation to the Big 12) has only three bowl eligible teams (USC on probation)?

MMSF Power 10 Week Nine

2010-11-09T05:24:00.002-05:00

Pittsburgh 6-2 (2) - The Steelers held a 20 point lead in the fourth quarter against Cincinnati on Monday Night Football before winning by just six. Despite that collapse, I am still buying on Pittsburgh.
Baltimore 6-2 (4) - I hate this. I haaaatttee this. If there is one team I do not buy into completely, it's the Ravens. Of the major offensive and defensive statistics, Baltimore doesn't rank in the top 10 in any.
New England 6-2 (1) - There was not a worse loss than the Patriots 20 point whooping at the hands of the Cleveland Browns. It was ugly and the Pats defense looked lost against Colt McCoy! C'mon New England. C'mon!
New York Jets 6-2 (5) - ESPN's Trent Dilfer says that Jets QB Mark Sanchez is a top tier player that doesn't get his respect. My question. When did Trent Dilfer become an NFL expert? The New York offense was shutdown by Green Bay and, for three quarters, the Lions. Not good. Not good.
New York Giants 6-2 (6) - Are we a couple of months from a New York v. New York Super Bowl? God let's hope not. Funny thing about the Giants five game win streak - not one win has come against a team that is currently above .500.
Philadelphia 5-3 (10) - Was there a better when this weekend than Philly's squeaker over the Colts? How about this, Mike Vike is the top rated passer in the National Football League. Did you ever think that would happen pre or post prison? Eagles are the best team in the NFC.
Indianapolis 5-3 (3) - If you don't think Peyton Manning is still the best QB in the league you aren't watching this year's Colts. Indy had no business being in their game at Philly, but thanks to Manning the Colts had the ball down 2 late in the fourth quarter!
Tennessee 5-3 (9) - How many of you had the Titans in the Randy Moss pool? Liars. You're all liars. Is grabbing Moss off the waivers a sure fire lock of a move? Not at all, but it does show you that head coach Jeff Fisher is all in for this season. Moss at wide out with Chris Johnson at running back? I know we thought the same thing with Moss and Adrian Peterson, but I still like this move.
Green Bay 6-3 (NR) - Has there ever been a team that needed the bye week more than Green Bay? 10 players have already been placed on IR and they've only played 9 games! By the way, last 9 quarters the Pack have allowed exactly 7 points.
Atlanta 6-2 (NR) - Honestly, ranking the top 10 teams in the NFL is about as an impossible job as there. For example, the Falcons were waxed by the Eagles, but everyone loves the make up of this team. However, could Atlanta beat Philly if they played now? No way. Could Atlanta beat Cleveland right now? I'm not sold at all on the Falcons.

MMSF Top 10 Week 10

2010-11-07T13:50:00.003-05:00

Every Monday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our top 10 in college football. These ranking are based on this week only, it is not a prediction on how the season will end. Click here to see the latest rankings for the Associated Press and the Coaches Polls.

Oregon - 9-0 (1) - With all of the news on Cam Newton at Auburn and TCU crushing Utah, has everyone forgotten how good Oregon is? The lowest point total scored by Chip Kelly's Ducks has been 42 points. 42 points!
Auburn - 10-0 (2) -Did Bama's loss to LSU guarantee Auburn a spot in the national championship game? Either way it certainly changed the dynamics of the Iron Bowl later this month.
TCU 10-0 (4) - Two things I was 100 percent wrong about so far this season (of course there are way more than just two things) #1. TCU and Utah would be the game of the yeare and #2. TCU wasn't a true top team. The Horned Frogs are for real! Right?
Boise State - 8-0 (3) - Yes TCU crushed Utah, but was no one impressed with Boise's beat down of Hawaii? It's ashame that the Ducks, Tigers, Horned Frogs, and Broncos all couldn't compete because nobody has invented a form of tournament. What's this March Madness you speak of?
LSU - 8-1 (10) - The Mad Hatter Les Miles strikes again on fourth down against the Crimson Tide! You can say what you want about him as a coach, you can't argue with his onions. Wouldn't it be perfect to see the Tigers, with their horrible offense, impressive defense, and crazy luck, play for the title? It's closer to happening than you think.
Stanford - 8-1 (NR) - For weeks we all assumed that Alabama was the best one loss team in the country. That was obviously wrong. I think we should all take a serious look at Andrew Luck and the Cardinal as the best one loss team now.
Wisconsin - 8-1 (7) - Next three games: Indiana, at Michigan, Northwestern. Scony is going to a BCS bowl. Rose or otherwise, the Badgers will be in the BCS.
Nebraska - 8-1 (8) - Credit Paul Rhoads, the Iowa State head coach, for going for the win against the Cornhuskers. In OT Rhoads had his Cyclones go for two on an extra point attempt rather then the safe game tying kick. Of course Nebraska came up with the stop and survived in Iowa City. Had that gone differently, Nebraska wouldn't be near this top 10.
Michigan State - 9-1 (NR) - Can I write this? Is this OK? The Spartans aren't very good. In fact, I wouldn't pick Michigan State to win a game against any other team in the top 10.
Arkansas - 7-2 - (NR) - Without top wide receiver Greg Childs, the Razorbacks went to Columbia and hammered top 20 South Carolina. Arkansas' two losses have come against Alabama and at Auburn. This team is a break or two away from competing for the SEC title.

MMSF Power 10 Week Eight

2010-11-02T07:00:00.002-04:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our MMSF NFL Power 10. This is a snapshot of the top tier teams in the league based on the games played until this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Please email in your thoughts at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com.

New England - 6-1 (3) - The Pats have the best record in football. What happened to those that said Bill Belichick was giving on the season when he traded away Randy Moss? New England has beaten Baltimore, won at San Diego, and just beat Minnesota and they still have games with the Packers, Colts, and Steelers ahead.
Pittsburgh - 5-2 (1) - For the first time since September the Steelers are not in first place! Pittsburgh lost Sunday in New Orleans on Halloween. I can't fault them too much for that.
Indianapolis - 5-2 (7) - Peyton Manning and the Colts defense own the Houston Texans. Indy avenged an earlier loss to the Texans on Monday night and, despite missing seven key players, the Colts looked like a contender again. If only for one night.
Baltimore - 5-2 (5) - I take heat for this, but I don't believe in the Ravens at all. The defense is not what it used to be and, for the moment, Willis McGahee is the most consistent running back on the team.
New York Jets - 5-2 (2) - An aberration or a problem? That's the question right now when your talking about the Jets offense. The Packers, with 10 players total sitting on IR, shut out New York at the new Meadowlands. If Mark Sanchez and company don't get it going, the Jets won't last long come January.
New York Giants - 5-2 (6) - The GMen rank in the top 10 on offense in every major statistical category. With a much improved defense and that type of offense, and with games against Seattle and Dallas ahead, NY could be looking at double digit wins and the top spot in the NFC playoffs.
Kansas City - 5-2 (8) - An ugly overtime win over a bad Buffalo team is still a win in the NFL. The Chiefs are still leading the AFC West and, just a guess, I think they make a play at soon to be free agent Randy Moss. Remember 2008 when Matt Cassel quarterbacked the Patriots with Moss as his favorite target. Plus, Scott Pioli is the man in charge in KC and he was in New England when the Pats traded for Moss.
Miami - 4-3 (9) - Can you believe that it is November and the 'Fins do not have a home win? Can you believe it's November and the 'Fins haven't lost on the road? It doesn't get any easier with a trip to BMore up next. If Miami figures out what to do at running back, Ricky Williams is a shell of his former self and Ronnie Brown hasn't done anything this season, the Dolphins will be a force in the loaded AFC.
Tennessee - 5-3 (4) - The Titans have bigger issues than just losing at San Diego. Tennessee's starting QB Vince Young and WR Kenny Britt both are injured and could miss significant amounts of time. In fact coach Jeff Fisher has said Britt is out for now.
Philadelphia - 4-3 (NR) - It's a toss up between Atlanta and Philly, but if Mike Vick is healthy the second best team in the NFC. Plus, even without Vick, the Eagles housed the Falcons in October.

MMSF Top 10 Week Nine

2010-11-01T07:25:00.003-04:00

Every Monday here on the Blog and later on the show we unveil our top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end. Click here to see the latest rankings for the Associated Press and the Coaches Polls.

Oregon 8-0 (1) - Everyone says Auburn's Cam Newton has the Heisman Trophy wrapped up. I don't doubt that, but I do think the Ducks LaMichael James is closer to winning that worthless award than you think.
Auburn 9-0 (3) - Speaking of Newton, did you see his touchdown catch against Ole Miss? That's right, catch. Just an unreal athlete that if Auburn didn't have on their roster would have the Tigers sitting at about 5 or 6 wins instead of 9.
Boise State 7-0 (2) - It's just tough for a team in the WAC to make the BCS title game. No loss team's like Oregon and Auburn, and even one loss Alabama, come from the power conferences and will likely make that title game over the Broncos. Plus, Boise playing on a Tuesday night makes it tough for them to stay relevant.
TCU 9-0 (4) - The biggest game of the weekend will be the Horned Frogs traveling to take on the Utes of Utah. If that doesn't tell you about the parity in college football I don't know what would.
Alabama 7-1 (7) - Looky looky, the Tide are all the way back up to fifth in the country. Won't be long until they are nipping at the heels of Boise State and Oregon.
Utah 8-0 (9) - Quick, name one player on Utah. Can't do it? Don't worry, you may not have to get to know this team. Beat TCU and that changes. Lose to TCU and...
Wisconsin 7-1 (8) - The Badgers, with super running backs John Clay and James White, are slowly working their way back up the rankings. Scony should be in the Rose Bowl, but the real issue is the fact that Ohio State will also be in a BCS bowl from the Big 10. The Buckeyes have as many quality wins as Syracuse does, actually SU has more!
Nebraska 7-1 (NR) - Since the Cornhuskers anemic 20 -13 loss to Texas (in Lincoln) Nebraska has put up 82 points in two straight games against ranked opponents!
Oklahoma 7-1 (NR) - Three of OU's last four games are on the road which should really tell us something about the Sooners.
LSU - 7-1 (10) - Yes, the Tigers had a bye this past weekend, but something tells me head coach Les Miles was somewhere completely messing up something yet still coming out on top.

MMSF Power 10 Week Seven

2010-10-26T06:52:00.002-04:00

Pittsburgh 5-1 (1) - Yes Ben Roethlisberger fumbled on the goal line late against Miami and yes the Dolphins recovered. But the record still says the Steelers have just one loss.
New York Jets 5-1 (2) - The bye week got the Jets (CB Darrelle Revis) healthy. The issue may still be the fact that Ladainian Tomlinson has to go from here on out without a week off. Can he stay healthy?
New England 5-1 (3) - Don't you keep wondering when the Pats will have that 'bad' year? With the youth on this team, if New England doesn't drop off this year they may not for a long time!
Tennessee 5-2 (NR) - Listen I don't think the Titans are the fourth best team in the NFL, but there is no debating how many good wins this team has earned. Plus, straight up on a neutral field right now, I'm taking Tennessee over Baltimore.
Baltimore 5-2 (4) - The Ravens allowed Buffalo QB Ryan Fitzpatrick to shred their defense. Couple that with the Ravens having virtually zero run game on offense and this team has serious flaws.
New York Giants 5-2 (7) - The Giants have won 4 games in a row and have separated themselves from the rest of the NFC. Can they maintain this play for the second half of the season?
Indianapolis 4-2 (5) - Add TE Dallas Clark's season ender to the list of major injuries crushing the Colts chances at a title run. With so much adversity this may be Peyton Manning's worst team he has had since his rookie year. However, you counting him out? I'm not either.
Kansas City 4-2 (10) - Let's get this out of the way, I hate QB Matt Cassel. Even so, the Chiefs schedule is wide open from this point on. I'll say it now and you can believe me later, K.C. is going to win 12 games this season. Imagine if they had a QB that was actually alive?!
Miami 3-3 (9) - The Fins did beat the Steelers. Of course the officials (made sure to fix the game) screwed up the call and Miami was left with their third loss. This is easily the best three loss team in the NFL.
Atlanta 5-2 (NR) - The Falcons are going to back into the NFC South title this season. You can see it coming a mile away. The Saints are full of themselves, the Buccaneers are frauds, and the Panthers stink. But take a look at the Atlanta defense, it's awful. AWFUL.

MMSF Top 10 Week Eight

2010-10-24T14:46:00.003-04:00

Every Monday here on the Blog and later on the show we unveil our top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediciton for how we feel the season will end. Click here to view the latest Associated Press and Coaches Polls.

Oregon 7 - 0 (1) - The Ducks are easily the most complete talented team in the nation. QB Darron Thomas and RB LaMichael James lead a dangerous Ducks offense. Oregon travels to down USC this weekend, but the Trojans have scored 30+ points six times this season. Upset alert?
Boise State 6-0 (2) - The BCS hates the Broncos. First it was Oklahoma who leapt in front of Boise and now Auburn. That being said, Kellen Moore and company should be feeling great about their chances for the BCS.
Auburn 8-0 (5) - Cam Newton. Cam Newton. Cam Newton. Cam Newton. Cam Newton.
TCU 8-0 (4) - In two weeks the Horned Frogs travel to Utah in a major showdown. That's great for college football fans, but bad for those that want to see more Non-AQ schools in BCS bowls.
Michigan State 8-0 (6) - Next week Sparty travels to Ames to do battle with the Hawkeyes of Iowa. Win that game and Michigan State is going 12-0. Will they be the team keeping Boise State out or will an undefeated Big 10 team be left out of the title game?
Missouri 7-0 (NR) - A major win over Oklahoma, but I still don't buy into this team being a threat for the title. By the way, what happened to the defense in the Big 12?
Alabama 7-1 (8) - All of the losses suffered by top teams means that if 'Bama wins the Iron Bowl they could sneak back up into one of the top two spots. Playoffs anyone?
Wisconsin 7-1 (9) - With James White and John Clay at RB the Badgers may be the best one loss team. Scony needs a Sparty collapse to have a shot at the Rose.
Utah 7-0 (10) - I can't say this enough, make sure you watch Utah host TCU in two weeks. This game makes me so mad that the MWC is breaking up.
LSU 7-1 (7) - I hate to say this, but late in the Tigers game against Auburn I was actually rooting for Les Miles. It's like he is a far more successful Greg Robinson. Just lucking into these things.

MMSF Power 10 Week Six

2010-10-19T11:03:00.002-04:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog - and later today on the show - we unveil our MMSF NFL Power 10. This is a snapshot of the top tier of teams in the based on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Please email us your thoughts in at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com.

Pittsburgh 4-1 (1) - Ben Roethlisberger is back throwing touchdowns and the Steelers will keep rolling foes. If the offense catches up with the defense Pittsburgh won't have an excuse should they lose again this year.
New York Jets 5-1 (3) - Least discussed topic with the Jets right now has to be the fact that Shonn Greene has underwhelmed to this point. If Ladainian Tomlinson keeps up leading the rush attack then NY will be fine, but history says LT won't stay healthy.
New England 4-1 (5) - A bunch of no names scattered on offense and defense. Fans and experts wondering how the Pats win the games they do. Tom Brady throwing to Deion Branch. Am I talking about 2010 or 2003? I'm starting to buy into the Patriots this season not next season (actually I buy into that too).
Baltimore - 4-2 (2) - How many losses would it take by Baltimore or Indianapolis to put an NFC team here? 8? 10?
Indianapolis - 4-2 (NR) - How did Peyton Manning lose to Jacksonville? That team is a hot mess right now. I still say Indy will get 12 wins in the most ugly and boring way possible.
Philadelphia - 4-2 (NR) - Looky looky an NFC team makes the list! In all reality the Eagles may be even better than this ranking, but it all depends on the health factor. The Eagles are missing more starters and key players than just about everyone in the league combined.
New York Giants - 4-2 (6) - The GMen drop a spot this week to make room for the Philadelphia Eagles. Philly CRUSHED Atlanta while the Giants got past Detroit. At this point I buy more into what the Eagles are doing than the Giants, but not by much.
New Orleans - 4-2 (NR) - Listen I hate this ranking as much as the next guy. Any team that loses to Arizona, like the Saints did, is not one of the top 10 teams in the National Football League. This exception is made for New Orleans because they beat down the Buccaneers and because Drew Brees is still the QB.
Miami - 3-2 (NR) - The Dolphins have three road wins and two home losses. Their home defeats have come against New York (Jets) and New England while their away wins have come against rival Buffalo, Minnesota, and Green Bay. The record isn't pretty, but I honestly think the Fins are on the cusp of something big.
Kansas City - 3-2 (7) - The Chiefs were leading big late against Houston and they folded. Folded like a beach chair. However, I still like the fact that KC was in control of that game and the week earlier at Indy. The Chiefs need to learn to win, but with Jamal Charles and Thomas Jones at running back and a defense that is vastly improved that lesson may not take too much longer. (Get rid of Matt Cassel too!)

MMSF Top 10 Week Seven

2010-10-17T19:29:00.002-04:00

Every Monday here on the Blog and later on the show we unveil our Top 10 in college football. These ranking are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end. Click here to view the latest Top 25 Associated Press and Coaches Polls.

Oregon 6-0 (1) - That's right - we had the Ducks number one last week. We're always way ahead of the trend. Oregon is third in rushing yards, first in points for, and 16th in points against. This team is for real. No chance UCLA makes it three straight weeks with number one going down.
Boise State 6-0 (3) - Could it be? Is college football finally ready to have a team from Boise play for the title? The Broncos just need an Oklahoma or Oregon loss and it's a lock.
Oklahoma 6-0 (5) - Through six games OU has beaten the likes of Florida State and Texas. However, I still don't buy this team. I'm thinking Mizzou will have something for the Sooners this Saturday.
TCU 7-0 (6) - A few more upsets and we could actually have TCU take on Boise State for the championship. If that happens the BCS apologists out there may turn into the biggest proponents for a playoff! Having wrote that, there is no chance the Horned Frogs sniff the title game.
Aurburn 7-0 (8) - LaMichael James and Darron Thomas of Oregon should be in the top three of any Heisman balloting right now. Tiger QB Cam Newton should be leading the top three. If Newton and Auburn are playing you should be watching).
Michigan State 7-0 (NR) - All of a sudden the Spartans have the inside track for the Big 10 title. In two weeks Sparty travels to Ames, Iowa - beat the Hawkeyes and that title is theirs.
LSU 7-0 (10) - Has there ever been a worse 7 - 0 team from the SEC? This Saturday the Tigers go to Auburn where I am predicting they lose by a lot. A whole lot.
Alabama 6-1 (7) - That big bounce back weekend for the Tide against Ole Miss resulted in an ugly 23 - 10 win. In the last two games RB Mark Ingram has rushed for 41 yards and 60 yards. Could there be an issue on offense for the defending champs?
Wisconsin 6-1 (NR) - The Badgers only loss of the season was against top 10 Michigan State and Scony just beat number one ranked Ohio State. See? It wasn't so stupid to pick Wisconsin to make the BCS title game.
Utah 6-0 (NR) - Are we ready to live in a world where Boise State meets TCU for the national championship and Utah plays in the Fiesta Bowl? Yeah, I didn't think so.

MMSF Power 10 Week Five

2010-10-12T09:06:00.002-04:00

Pittsburgh 3-1 (1) - The Steelers welcome back Ben Roethlisberger with Cleveland coming in this week and games against Cincinnati, Oakland, and Buffalo on the horizon. 12 wins or more should be the goal at this point.
Baltimore - 4-1 (4) - Welcome to the 2010 season Ray Rice! The running back goes for over 100 yards and a couple of TDs against Denver and just like that it seems the Ravens have become a complete team - defense and offense.
New York Jets - 4-1 (2) - I dropped the Jets one spot, but in all reality the top three spots are completely interchangeable. The Steelers got back Roethlisberger while the Jets welcome in Big Ben's former favorite target in Santonio Holmes. That will only help second year QB Mark Sanchez who has 8 TD passes and zero picks after five games!
Atlanta - 4-1 (5) - Remember that 'Curse of 370' for running backs? Falcons RB Michael Tuner hit 370 in '08 and was banged up in '09, but so far this season Turner is debunking the myth. Tuner is averaging 4.5 yards per and ran for 140 yards against Cleveland on Sunday.
New England 3-1 (7) - The Patriots traded away Randy Moss during the week (what, you didn't hear?), yet I move the Pats up because they still do have Tom Brady and Wes Welker. There's no way New England didn't get worse on the field by trading Moss, but you have to wonder how it will help the huddle not having the malcontent wideout.
New York Giants 3-2 (NR) - For the first time since Plaxico Burress blew up his leg in '08 the Giants have a number one wide out and his name is Hakeem Nicks. In five games Nicks has 6 TD catches and is averaging over 12 yards per grab.
Kansas City - 3-1 (9) - Is there any team that better fits the parity theme then the Chiefs? Thanks to a horrible AFC West KC will be in the playoff hunt all year despite having the putrid Matt Cassel at QB.
AFC South - 3-2 (NR) - The entire division is sitting tied for the lead at 3-2 with all four teams having good wins and bad losses. I fully expect Indianapolis to once again take the title, but through five games neither of the four teams have separated themselves.
Washington - 3-2 (NR) - The Redskins can thank Donovan McNabb for making them a respectable team. McNabb has thrown for over 1,300 yards so far and will keep Washington in every game. One has to wonder how the 'Skins lost at St. Louis though. Heesh.
NFC Team - (NR) - I hate to do this, but you could put the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, or even the Green Bay Packers in this spot. Either the NFC is just taking longer for the cream to rise or the NFC is just really really bad this season. As an Eagles fan I am worried it's the latter.

MMSF Top 10 Week Six

2010-10-10T20:07:00.003-04:00

Every Monday here on the Blog we unveil our Top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end. Click here to see the latest Top 25 Associated and Coaches polls.

Oregon - 6-0 (2) - The Ducks have QB Darron Thomas and RB LaMichael James on offense and a defense that has bent but not broken this season. Oregon is first in points scored and top 20 in points allowed. This is an exciting and a complete team.
Ohio State - 6-0 (3) - The popular consensus will have the Buckeyes as the top team in the nation, which is perfectly acceptable, but I think we have seen more issues with Ohio State than with Oregon. This weekend at Sconny will be huge for this team and huge for...
Boise State - 5-0 (4) - Who out there thought Alabama would help Boise State in their claim for the national championship? But with 'Bama's loss the Broncos are that much closer to a top two spot. Boise will continue to cruise as they wait for either Oregon or Ohio State to stub their toe.
Nebraska - 5-0 (6) - I know it was just Kansas State, but last Thursday the Cornhuskers took the wood to the Wildcats on the road. Taylor Martinez, the Frosh QB, may be a Heisman contender as Nebraska should win out for the regular season.
Oklahoma - 5-0 (5) - The Red River Shootout - SHOOTOUT - was won by OU but I still am skeptical of the Sooners. I think we will all have to wait until the Big 12 Championship to figure out which team is the best in the conference.
TCU - 6-0 (7) - To me at this point in the season after Boise State there are a bunch of Also Rans. Despite my affinity for Horned Frogs, Gary Patterson's team is destined to be an Also Ran.
Alabama - 5-1 (1) - There is no way in the world Bama is the seventh best team in the country, but losing by 14 on national television hurts. I say the Tide rolls throught the SEC (including the title game) and may be out a no loss Boise team to play for the BCS. Just a hunch. By the way, look out Ole Miss, LOOK OUT.
Auburn 6-0 (8) - Auburn is in over their head by being this good this quick, but if you have a chance you should certainly watch QB Cam Newton at every chance you have too. Should the Tigers stay the course the Iron Bowl could be awfully interesting this season.
Arkansas - 4-1 (10) - How freaking loaded is the SEC? The Hogs would be a top team in most of the other conferences in the country. In the SEC they are all but forgotten about after just one loss.
LSU - 6-0 (NR) - Tigers head coach Les Miles has to be either the worst, luckiest, or best undefeated coach left in the country. Crazy bad and good decisions have LSU thinking SEC title game. However, would you be surprised if the Tigers finished 6-6? Because I wouldn't be at all.

MMSF Power 10 Week Four

2010-10-05T05:59:00.002-04:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our NFL Power 10. This is a snap shot of the top tier of teams in the league based on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Please email your thoughts in at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com.

Pittsburgh 3-1 (1) - The Steelers lost at home in a key divisional match up against the Ravens. Yet, something tells me that had Ben Roethlisberger been eligible to play, the Steelers would still be undefeated. Big Ben is back starting now, look out AFC.
New York Jets 3-1 (3) - The Jets have found the Fountain Of Youth as 31 year old running back Ladaninian Tomlinson is averaging over 6 years per carry! The issues is New York has played only 4 games, lets see if LT is putting up these numbers in December.
New Orleans 3-1 (4) - You can focus in on the fact the Saints have looked vulnerable in each of their first four games. QB Drew Brees has not been Super Man and the Saints are playing without key injured players (Reggie Bush and Darren Sharper), yet the Saints are 3-1.
Baltimore 3-1 (9) - The Ravens won their showdown with the Steelers, but I still have my concerns with this team. Offensively Baltimore is still offensive. Until Ray Rice, or any Raven RB, steps up, Baltimore is on shaky ground.
Atlanta 3-1 (6) - It took a fluke fumble recovery off a Matt Ryan interception for the Falcons to not lose to winless San Franscico. I still question this team's defense, but the NFC seems to be wide open this year and Atlanta may be one of the best.
Green Bay 3-1 (5) - A week after committing 18 penalties against Chicago, the Packers allowed Detroit QB Shaun Hill to carve up their secondary. That Dom Capers defense for Green Bay may have some big play ability, but they allow too many big plays.
New England 3-1 (10) - New England LB and special teamer Patrick Chung played out of his mind on Monday night against Miami. A blocked punt, field goal, and interception returned for a TD is a good season, that was Chung's game against the Dolphins! Yes, the Pats defense is young and inexperienced, but they are certainly talented.
Houston 3-1 (8) - At one point less than a year ago RB Arian Foster was on the practice squad for the Texans. A and four games later Foster is the NFL's leading rusher, with over 100 yards on the next closest player.
Kansas City 3-0 (NR) - No way. Nope.
Indianapolis 2-2 (2) - For seven straight years Peyton Manning and the Colts have won at least 12 games. In fact last year the Colts won their first 14 and could have easily gone undefeated had the team not rested starters in the final two games of the season. Due to injuries and time I now believe Indy has fallen back to the pack.

MMSF Top 10 Week Five

2010-10-03T14:46:00.003-04:00

Alabama 5-0 (1) - The Tide rolled the Gators and will now cruise through the rest of the SEC (that includes the SEC title game). Anyone who Bama isn't the best team in the nation is an idiot.
Oregon 5-0 (5) - That's right I went here. Oregon has put up at least 45 points in every game (56.6 ppg - tops in the country) and the Ducks just became Boise State's worst enemy. QB Darron Thomas and RB LaMichael James may be 1 and 1A in the Heisman race right now (maybe not in that order).
Ohio State 5-0 (2) - Dropping the Buckeyes to #3 is a reflection on how good Oregon is, not anything against OSU. Terrelle Pryor needs to be healthy if Ohio State wants to get back to a BCS title game. Pryor says he is good to go against Indiana.
Boise State 4-0 (3) - The list for teams the Broncos need to jump to make the title game just got longer, but as long as they keep winning no one else will leap Boise State.
Oklahoma 5-0 (10) - If you have tracked my rankings of the Sooners you know I hate this team. However, HOWEVA, I've got to give them respect for beating Florida State, Cincinnati, and Texas in the first five weeks.
Nebraska 4-0 (7) - The Cornhuskers are in the upper tier in rushing and points scored in the nation, along with being seventh in points allowed. Sounds good, right? With Freshmen quarterback Taylor Martinez Nebraska is 110th in passing yards. Who's the best team in the Big 12?
TCU 5-0 (4) - The Horned Frogs may be the newest Big East member (hopefully not) and they are certainly a top team, but they just don't play tough enough competition.
Auburn 5-0 (9) - QB Cam Newton may be the biggest impact junior college trasnfer in SEC history! I still have questions about this Tigers team, as their biggest wins have all come at home and in ugly fashion.
Arizona 4-0 (NR) - Very much like last year, there are about four or five elite teams and then a number of interchangeable teams. The Wildcats are interchangeable.
Arkansas 3-1 (NR) - Anyone else notice that Washington QB Jake Locker owned USC on Saturday? Probably not as the Huskies are off the national radar and so it Locker. The same goes for Razorback QB Ryan Mallett after their loss to 'Bama. Don't count Mallett out yet though, he and his Hogs still will make a lot of noise this season.

Big East Expansion

2010-09-30T12:33:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, after my random Chris Bosh rant (that actually drew a live studio audience!), we opened talking Big East expansion. The news yesterday was that a number of schools were being considered as possible new members by the conference. Sources to the New York Posts' Len Robbins have said up to 12 teams were on the Big East's expansion wish list. Obviously, Villanova, Central Florida, and Memphis have to be on that list. All three have long been rumored to be the next schools added to the bloated Big East.

- The shocking news out of Robbins' report was that the conference was actually even thinking of adding TCU to the fold. That, boys and girls, is Texas Christian University. As in Texas, the state (just to be clear)! And you thought the 'Big East' playing conference games in Kentucky was ridiculous. TCU is, evidently, one of those 12 schools being looked at by the Big East.

- Reports today out of the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram say that TCU officials have actually met with Big East officials in the past month about a possible jump from the Mountain West Conference to the conference that once was just in the east. TCU AD Chris Del Conte, according to the Star-Telegram, was unavailable for comment because he was away on business that took him to Philadelphia and New York City. The stop in Philly was to deal with MWC television meetings, but the speculation certainly jumps as to why Del Conte went to NYC. One could take a guess he was there to once again listen to the Big East officials make their pitch to have TCU join the Big East.

- First, I hate that this is the death of the Mountain West Conference. The MWC is and has been a better football conference than the Big East for the last five years, and in all reality, if it could have stuck, the conference deserved the BCS title that the Big East is still trying to hold on too. BYU is going independent (stupid), Utah jumped to the Pac-10 (smart), and now TCU wants out. If, in 10 years, you are arguing with someone about why there should be a playoff system in college football, remind them how freaking fun it was to watch TCU, Utah, and BYU continually beat up on the 'Big Boys.' The BCS dream and the BCS money caused these three schools to venture away from the conference in hopes of one day having a shot at the national title and a shot at all that cash.

- Secondly, since 2004 I have been on the get 'Syracuse Out of The Big East' tangent and battling the Big East 'homers'. There is a massive rift between the basketball schools and the football schools in the conference. I have heard from multiple trusted sources that the divide between the two would eventually cause the league to go under and I want to see SU jump ship before the it goes under. The two sides of the Big East have been forced to get along because there hasn't been a choice. Every 'big program' is settled into a BCS conference, so if Pittsburgh, West Virginia, and Syracuse wanted to leave the Big East they would have to go independent or hope another BCS conference threw them an invite.

- Adding in TCU, Villanova, or Memphis, etc, is once again putting a band aid on hole in the Titanic. The addition of Connecticut (up from FCS), South Florida, Cincinnati, and Louisville was the original band aid. With TCU you have to figure what to do with the entirety of their athletics (cost), with 'Nova you need to wait as the football program goes from FBS to FCS status, and Memphis, well, Memphis is horrible. None of those options gives the Big East a leg up against the rest of the BCS leagues. There are six total and the Big East, with even a top 10 TCU squad, is last.

- The Big East loyalists that I battle with want to save the conference at all costs, but does the league they want to save even exist? Remembering history is great, clinging to it keeps you from moving forward. Is Syracuse v. DePaul in hoops or Syracuse v. TCU in football staying true to what was created in 1980 ('91 in football)? I continue to maintain SU needs to get out. How do that? The same way Colorado went from afterthought Big 12 school to Pac-10 member in about a two week cycle. The Pac-10 intimated that they were looking at expansion and there is no doubt that Colorado officials jumped on that. Back channel communications, phone calls, meetings, all of that led to the Buffaloes playing in the same league as USC and UCLA next year. Syracuse needs to do the same.

- All this energy fans want the Big East to waste on trying to avoid leagues like the Big 10 or SEC from taking away members should be used by SU officials to speak with those very leagues about moving too.

- I hate that the Big East has fallen to the point that TCU seems like a good 'get.' The Horned Frogs have been talented under Gary Patterson, but, at their best, TCU is not a conference savior. I hate that Big East loyalists would rather have the conference include programs from Texas just to preserve the tradition that's long since gone, rather than have Syracuse jump to a better situation. Sometimes it is best for conferences just to go away, even the tradition filled ones (ask the SWC).

- At this point I am hoping Syracuse has an option outside of the Big East, because if the loyalists get their way, the new Big East will be larger than ever and just as mediocre. (nunesmagician.com)

MMSF Power 10 Week 3

2010-09-28T10:25:00.002-04:00

Every Tuesday here on the Blog - and later on the show - we unveil our NFL Power 10. This is a snap shot of the top tier of teams in the league based on the games played to this point. Do you agree or disagree with these rankings? Please email your thoughts in at mattmcsportsfix@yahoo.com

Pittsburgh 3 - 0 (2) - Ben Roethlisberger who? 87 year old Charlie Batch guides the Steelers to two big road victories and the Steelers are one game away from going 4-0 without Roethlisberger. Can we all agree that Troy Polamalu is still nasty?
Indianapolis 2-1 (NR) - Two bounce back victories for the Colts following their opening day loss at Houston show that Indy is probably going to quietly win 12 games again this year. Blah blah blah.
New York Jets 2-1 (8) - loved this stat from Sports Illustrated's Peter King - since the start of the '09 season Miami has had five players get arrested. The maverick run Jets have had one player arrested in that same time period.
New Orleans 2-1 (1) - The Saints have struggled in their first three games of the season, finally losing in OT to Atlanta this past Sunday. I still think that Drew Brees and company will right the ship, especially with that upcoming schedule.
Green Bay 2-1 (3) - The glass half full says that the Packers should have beaten the Bears on the road Monday night but self inflicted errors cost them. The glass half empty says that the Packers committed 17 penalties. Does a Super Bowl team really implode like that?
Atlanta 2-1 (NR) - The Falcons laid an egg at Pittsburgh in week one and has since turned it around. The 49ers are up next at the Georgia Dome and that means San Fran will be 0-4 (I picked the 49ers to finish #2 in the NFC)! I still have my concerns about the Falcons offense, especially quarterback Matt Ryan.
Miami 2-1 (5) - Is it just me or have the Ravens and the Dolphins been the exact same team for the past 12 years? All Miami does is play defense, stay with teams in games, and win ugly. The exact same recipe Baltimore uses. It's not pretty but Miami will probably win 10 games, make the playoffs, and lose round one, again.
Houston 2-1 (4) - Week one Arian Foster had to rush for 4 million yards for the Texans to beat the Colts. Week two had Matt Schaub throw for 4 million yards for the Texans to come back and beat the Redskins. Without those type of performances Houston went down to Dallas at home. I think the Texans are closer to that team than they are to a Super Bowl contender. Their secondary is horrible, plus keep an eye on the injured Andre Johnson.
Baltimore 2-1 (7) - I can't tell you how much I hate the Ravens right now. Not only do I still own Joe Flacco for my fantasy team, but I also employ running back Ray Rice. Baltimore's offense is horrible (See; Dolphins, Miami) and their defense just gave up over 100 yards and a TD to that dude Peyton Hillis. If I could sell the Ravens right now I would but no one is taking Flacco or Rice, trust me, I know.
New England 2-1 (6) - It's a general rule of thumb for us here at MMSF to not rank any team that allows the Buffalo Bills to keep the game close and allows Ryan Fitzpatrick to look like a professional quarterback. The issue here is I don't buy the Chicago Bears, thus here are the Pats. Three weeks into the season we have a whole lot of crap teams and a whole lot of alright teams and no dominate team.

MMSF Top 10 Week Four

2010-09-27T11:07:00.003-04:00

Every week here on the Blog we unveil our Top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end. Click here to see the latest Top 25 Associated Press and Coaches Polls.

Alabama 4-0 (1) - I'm not exactly sure how the Tide survived Arkansas. Granted they did force two Razorback quarterback Ryan Mallett picks in the fourth quarter and 'Bama running back Mark Ingram ran like crazy against the Hogs, and...oh yeah I guess I do know how the Tide survived.
Ohio State 4-0 (2) - Can you believe that the Buckeyes allowed Eastern Michigan to score 23 points on Saturday at the Horseshoe? Completely shocking. Oh, Ohio State did put up 73 points, so theres that. I think we are all trying to not talk about the fact OSU and Alabama are on a course to play each other in the BCS title game.
Boise State 3-0 (3) - There is no one happier that the Nevada football team is ranked again for the first time in years than the team and it's coaching staff. Well, no one happier than Boise who needs all the wins over ranked teams they can get. It just so happens the Broncos play at the Wolfpack later this year.
TCU 4-0 (4) -This is the last time the Horned Frogs will be this high in the Top 10. I love Gary Patterson as a coach and TCU has legit talent like QB Andy Dalton, but there next big challenge is at Utah. Thanks to the BCS there can only be one Boise State per season, sorry TCU.
Oregon 4-0 (6) - I love Chip Kelly's Oregon Ducks! They do nothing but score points, and until Saturday at Arizona State, the Ducks had crushed opposing offenses as well. I say until Saturday because the Sun Devils tallied almost 600 yards of total offense! That's concerning.
Florida 4-0 (NR) - That's right I didn't have the Gators ranked last week. Why this week? Because; A. The offense looked great against Kentucky and B. Freshmen backup QB Trey Burton rushed for five TDs and caught another one. Tim Tebow Part II - The Tebowing.
Nebraska 4-0 (8) - The Cornhuskers looked less than Top 10 worthy this past weekend at home against South Dakota. I put little stock in that game and more in the fact that Nebraska has looked great in the previous three games. The Huskers are better than they showed at home Saturday against an FCS school.
Stanford 4-0 (NR) - The Cardinal have road wins at UCLA (who won at Texas on Saturday) and at Notre Dame (who is always hyped beyond belief). Four games into the season Jim Harbaugh's team has two quality road wins - next up is the real test - at Oregon. The winner of that game has the inside track for the Pac 10 title. Yup - Stanford or Oregon!
Auburn 4-0 (NR) -
Two ugly wins in a row for the Tigers, but by beating Clemson and South Carolina at home, Auburn has shown they are a legit team. QB Cam Newton is a two-way threat who could run or pass the Tigers to victory. Auburn is going to create havoc for the entire SEC this year.
Oklahoma 4-0 (9) - I hate the Sooners so far this season. OU blew out an overrated Florida State team and they have struggled with Utah State, Air Force, and at Cincinnati this past weekend. This Saturday in the Red River Shootout against Texas is probably going to be the most over-hyped, meaningless, game of the weekend. If Texas wins this game then the Big 12's chances to have a team in the title game fall squarely on Nebraska and their freshmen QB Taylor Martinez.

NFL Power 10 Week 2

2010-09-21T12:02:00.000-04:00

New Orleans - 2-0 (2) - Drew Brees got the ball back on Monday night with over one minute to go in the game against San Fransisco. If Brees gets the ball back with over 30 seconds to go in a game in which the Saints need three or seven points to win, Brees will get it done. He is in Manning Mode, actually Brees has been in that mode for the past two seasons.
Pittsburgh - 2-0 (7) - There is just so much to like about the Steelers right now. First up, playing without Ben Roethlisberger, Byron Leftwich, and even losing Dennis Dixon, Pittsburgh turned to 83 year old Charlie Batch to qb the team. This on the road against Tennessee and the Steelers win while holding Titans RB Chris Johnson to less than 40 yards rushing! Win of the weekend.
Green Bay 2-0 (6) - You and I along with nine other schlubs could probably hang with, if not beat, the Buffalo Bills. So I take little away from the Pack beat down against the Bills, but a quick hot start should lead Aaron Rodgers and co. to walk away with the NFC North.
Houston - 2-0 (4) - The Texans have beaten AFC rival Indianapolis and last weekend Washington on the road. Houston appears tougher than in the past, but keep in mind it took Matt Schaub throwing for near 500 yards against the 'Skins and RB Arian Foster rushing for over 230 yards against the Colts for the Texans to be 2-0.
Miami - 2-0 (8) - The second best win of the week has to be the Fins winning against Minnesota in the Metro Dome. Miami is not at all pretty to watch, but their defense is solid and their grind it out offense speeds up games and will keep Miami up right all year.
New England - 1-1 (1) - On Sunday the Patriots played two great quarters and two pathetic quarters against the Jets. The two bad quarters, however, came in the second half of a close game. Credit to Rex Ryan and New York for putting up 18 points on the Pats and running away with a win against their rivals. However, New England seems to lose this type of game (see; 2009, Week Two) and then turn it around from there on out.
Baltimore 1-1 (3) - Joe Flacco has looked putrid in two games, including throwing for 4 picks against Cincinnati, and back Ray Rice hasn't hit the century mark on the ground. That much talked about offense for the Ravens has yet to show up for 2010 and it looks like Baltimore will be a grind it out, defensive orientated, team this year (heard that before).
New York Jets - 1-1 (9) - The Jets would be a lot higher up this list if wideout Braylon Edwards hadn't gotten a DWI Tuesday morning. Throw in the fact that Santonio Holmes is still out serving a suspension and Shonn Greene looking flat out bad as starting running back and the Jets offensively are more of what they showed against the Ravens than the Patriots.
Tennessee - 1-1 (5) - Tennessee looked like week one's big blow out victory came against a horrible Oakland team (oh wait...) as the Titans couldn't do anything against the Steeler D. QB Vince Young regressed quickly against Pittsburgh and back Chris Johnson looked mortal, both real bad signs for Jeff Fisher's team.
Chicago 2-0 (NR) - Jay Cutler didn't throw an interception on the road against Dallas. Let me repeat that again, Jay Cutler didn't throw an interception on the road against Dallas! Everyone's wondering if this Bears team is for real. I'll let you in on a secret, they're not.

MMSF Top 10 Week Three

2010-09-20T08:22:00.000-04:00

Every week here on the Blog we unveil our Top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end. Last week's ranking in parenthesis.

Alabama 3-0 (1) - The Tide got back Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram on Saturday at Duke. The junior back hadn't played a down until Saturday and all he did was run for 151 yards and two touchdowns on nine carries! 6 Alabama runners tallied a total of 315 yards against the Blue Devils.
Ohio State 3-0 (2) - In three games Buckeyes quarterback Terrelle Pryor has looks as though he has finally hit his stride. In fact I would take Pryor over Michigan QB Denard Robinson any day of the week, but have you realized the OSU defense is allowing just 8 points per game (special teams is another story)?
Boise State 2-0 - (3) - The Broncos welcome in #25 Oregon State this Saturday to the Smurf Turf. Boise State also welcomes in ESPN's GameDay and ABC's primetime Game of the Week. We will learn more about Boise in how they deal with GameDay/ABC than the Beavers of OSU.
TCU 3-0 (4) - The Horned Frogs have that nasty defense (9th in the nation in points allowed) and TCU now has a nasty offense (6th in the nation in points scored).
Texas 3-0 (5) - I was shocked when the 'experts' thought the Longhorns would lose at Texas Tech on Saturday. That's more of a comment on the Red Raiders than on Texas.
Oregon 3-0 (6) - The Ducks are first in the nation in points scored, in points allowed, second in rushing yards per game (LaMichael James is a dark horse Heisman candidate), and 49th in passing yards per game. The competition has been weak (last weekend a 69 - 0 win over FCS Portland State), but Oregon is for real.
Arkansas - 3-0 (NR) - I may be drinking up the Razorback kool-aid more than others, but Ryan Mallett reminds me of a Drew Bledsoe or Peyton Manning in the way he is owning college football. If Mallett and the hogs can beat 'Bama Saturday, you can the Arkansas qb the Heisman and start printing the Mallett #15 Bills jerseys.
Nebraska - 3-0 (7) - The Cornhuskers fall a spot in this week's rankings, but it's not because of their play. Nebraska dominated Washington on the road and looked like a complete team. My blind love for Arkansas evidently caused this ranking. Although, Frosh Taylor Martinez has looked way better than expected for Nebraska so far.
Oklahoma 3-0 (8) - What is the deal with the Sooners? Crush Florida State and struggle with Utah State and Air Force. In two weeks either OU or Texas will officially show their true colors in the Red River Rivarly.
Wisconson - 3-0 (10) - My national champion runner up is looking horrible in the early going. The Badgers have yet to dominate any opponent and it took fluke and luck to beat Arizona State on Saturday. At Michigan State in two weeks and at Iowa later on will let us all know how much I know about college football.

NFL Power 10 Week 1

2010-09-14T10:57:00.001-04:00

New England (1-0) - The most impressive win of the weekend that no one seems to be talking about has to be the Pats beat down of the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals won the AFC North in '09 with most of the starters returning, yet Cincy was down 24 - 3 at halftime! Wes Welker tore his ACL in week 17 last year. May we all be so lucky!
New Orleans (1-0) - What's scarier? The fact that the Saints defense propelled the team to victory over a very good Minnesota team in the season opener, or the fact that Pro Bowl quarterback Drew Brees had a pedestrian like game yet the Saints still won? I'll give you the answer, it's both. The D looks nasty and we all know Brees is going to eventually tear up secondaries.
Baltimore (1-0) - The Ravens held the New York Jets to 176 total yards and six first downs on Monday! Although the offense was still very 'Baltimoreish' (think Trent Dilfer) that win let the NFL know the Ravens are worth the hype.
Houston (1-0) - Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson are both Pro Bowlers and they are still members of the Texans. You may not have realized that though due to all of the coverage given Arian Foster. Fantasy owners knew all about Foster well before Sunday, you can bet the Indianapolis Colts don't need to Google him now. The Texans running back rushed for 231 yards and three touchdowns against the defending AFC champs. Houston is now 2-16 all time against the Colts.
Tennessee (1-0) - So much for the Oakland Raiders being a sleeper, eh? The Titans looked like the '07 Patriots against the Raiders on Sunday as they crushed Oaktown 38 - 13. Running back Chris Johnson did his thing (142 yards rushing - 3 TDs) but more impressive to me was his 76 yard touchdown run. It's almost unfair to see a running back do that in the National Football League!
Green Bay (1-0) - The Packers got up 17 points at Philadelphia and were having their way with an injury and experience depleted Eagles team. It looked as though the Pack were every bit a Super Bowl contender as most made them out to be in the pre-season. Then the Eagles defense pressured Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers into multiple bad throws and Eagles backup Mike Vick carved up the Pack D. I'm not jumping off the Green Bay Bandwagon, but, especially with the injury to Ryan Grant, I am starting to look for a soft spot to land.
Pittsburgh (1-0) - Ben who? I kid, I kid. In a game only a field goal kickers mom could love, Pittsburgh beat Atlanta in overtime using backup quarterback Dennis Dixon and kicker Jeff Reed. I come away from this game thinking that the Steelers should be above .500 once Ben Roethlisberger comes back from his suspension and I come away wondering the Falcons Matt Ryan's overall talent. There I said it.
Miami (1-0) - The Fins beat Buffalo thanks in large part to a heavy pass rush, the opponent not being good, and Buffalo head coach Chan Gailey not being a good coach. With the schedule Miami has this year, I would worry if I am a fan.
New York Jets (0-1) - The Jets lost and offensively looked putrid, yet I still think Rex Ryan's outfit will rebound quite nicely. Baltimore was a tough opening game, and clearly Marc Sanchez and the Jets O needs work (week 5 Santonio Holmes comes back), but in the end New York will be there all year.
New York Giants (1-0) - I hate the rest of the 1-0 teams just a little bit more than I hate the Giants. New York looked lost at times against Carolina, but the defense forced quarterback Matt Moore into bad throws and Eli Manning seems to have a nice connection with wide receivers Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks (3 TD catches). I'm still not feeling the G-Men in '10.

MMSF Top 10

2010-09-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

Every week here on the Blog we unveil our Top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end.

Alabama (1) 2-0 - Mega Saturday turned out to be exactly as I thought - a Mega Over Hyped Saturday as all the favorites cruised to a victory. Bame v. Penn State sounded way better than it was and I think it reaffirmed to the haters that the Tide aren't rebuilding after last season's title. Plus, Nick Saban will get Heisman winner Mark Ingram back soon.
Ohio State (2) 2-0 - Speaking of Mega Over Hype Saturday, the only 'big' win for me was OSU beating Miami convincingly. The Buckeyes should cruise until a mid-October game at Wisconsin.
Boise State (3) 1-0 - The Broncos didn't play, yet they took a major loss as Virginia Tech face-planted at home against FCS James Madison. The road to the title game became that much more difficult for non-AQ Boise.
TCU (4) 2-0 - The Hornfrogs have scored a total of 92 points in two games! Granted one of those tilts was against Tennessee Tech, but still the TCU defense may not be the best unit on Gary Patterson's squad.
Texas (5) 2-0 - In the latest Associated Press poll someone voted Texas number one. The Longhorns have beaten Rice and Wyoming while Alabama, Ohio State, Boise State, and TCU all have at least beaten ranked teams. That voter should be banned. BANNED.
Oregon (6) 2-0 - Oregon hung 72 points on New Mexico week one and 48 points at Tennessee week two! The Ducks will play four ranked teams in the future, but it's likely they will be favored in every game from here on out. Could OU make a run at the title?
Nebraska (8) 2-0 - This one goes out to the Jake Locker SU haters - Nebraska plays at Husky Stadium on Saturday in a game that could make or break the Cornhuskers run for '10 and Washington qb Locker's Heisman/NFL status.
Oklahoma (7) 2-0 - The Sooners looked much better in game two of the season than in week one against Utah State by hammering Florida State. I still think there are big question marks for Bob Stoops' team. In two weeks UT and OU will battle in the Red River Rivalry with the loser showing their true colors.
Iowa (9) 2-0 - It's not that I hate Iowa or Hawkeyes, but I hate this team. Is it just me or is Iowa always boring? Watching a Kirk Ferentz coached Iowa team is like watching the Browns play the Bills every week. Calling it now, Iowa loses at Arizona this weekend.
Wisconsin (10) 2-0 - Still plenty of time to hop on the Sconny bandwagon! Running back John Clay is averaging 130 yards on the ground and two touchdowns in two games. Heisman dark horse possibilities for a BCS title game dark horse?

MMSF Top 10

2010-09-07T11:14:00.000-04:00

Every week here on the Blog we unveil our Top 10 in college football. These rankings are based on this week only, it is not a prediction for how we feel the season will end.

Alabama (1-0) - Keep an eye on this Mark Ingram knee surgery issue. Ingram may miss a month of action. The Tide are home to Penn State Saturday and then at Arkansas later in the month. Upset alert potential.
Boise State (1-0) - Did you watch that game last night? Virginia Tech is not an elite team, but the Broncos and Hookies played one exciting game. QB Kellen Moore is legit and so is Bosie.
Texas (1-0) - The Longhorns didn't look like World Beaters against Rice, but week one is week one.
TCU (1-0) - Outside of Boise State over Virginia Tech, the biggest win of the weekend went to the Hornfrogs. TCU beat a really good Oregon State team at Jerry's World. Now comes the fall from the top 5 as Gary Patterson's club plays NO ONE else of importance.
Florida (1-0) - No Tim Tebow meant a closer than expected home game against Miami. That's not The U, that's Miami, Ohio! Heesh. Urban Meyer's boys better get it together sooner than later.
Oregon (1-0) - This poll is based on last weekend and last weekend Oregon beat New Mexico, a division one team, 72 - 0!
Oklahoma (1-0) - Of all the games this weekend, the one most over looked may have been OU's squeaker against Utah State. Utah State!?
Nebraska (1-0) - Cornhuskers head coach Bo Pelini waited until 30 minutes prior to kickoff until naming freshman Taylor Martinez starting qb. Martinez threw the ball 15 times in the win over Western Kentucky. In other words, it didn't matter who was playing 'quarterback' Saturday.
Iowa (1-0) - Last year Iowa's season went down hill when quarterback Ricky Stanzi got hurt late in the year. In game one Stanzi left with injury (he did return). I still question Stanzi's ability and his stability.
Wisconsin (1-0) - To sum up my thoughts on Sconny this year: I have the Badgers losing to Alabama in the National Title Game!

A-Rod's Money

2010-07-29T12:39:00.000-04:00

New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez has been battling to hit his next home run. That homer would give him 600 for his career and would allow the extra media and fan attention thrown on him lately to subside (at least a little).

- Most baseball fans are not A-Rod fans for many reasons. Seattle Mariners fans have always showered Rodriguez with boos and derogative chants because they feel A-Rod left his team for the Texas Rangers for money. Rangers fans do not think positively of the All Star because he signed the biggest contract in pro sports history with Texas and never helped produce a winning team. Most other baseball fans have issues with A-Rod because of his personality, his contract, the over hype, and the list goes on.

- According to ESPN.com there will be another reason for Rangers fans, and baseball fans, to feel some anger towards Rodriguez. The Rangers are a team in bankruptcy and are hoping to be bought out by a new owner who will pump more money into the team doing well right now. A-Rod, however, filed an objection to the Rangers bankruptcy plan on Wednesday over concerns he will not get the $24.9 million owed him by the club through deferred payments.

- Rodriguez wasn't the only player to file an objection. In fact current Rangers player Michael Young and former Rangers Kevin Millwood and Vicente Padilla also objected to the plan, not to mention Major League Baseball itself objected. But that probably won't matter as much. The guy who has signed two $200 million plus contracts, the guy who almost crippled the Rangers, the perceived diva star, will probably feel most of the wrath of fans wanting Texas to move forward by filing a bankruptcy plan. Kind of funny that for years A-Rod's contract crushed the growth of the franchise, and years removed from Texas, that contract is still crushing the Rangers potential growth. (ESPN.com)

No Hitters

2010-07-27T11:39:00.000-04:00

Matt Garza pitched a no hitter on Monday night in Tampa for his Rays against the Detroit Tigers. Garza obviously went the distance striking out six batters and only walked one batter to give Major League Baseball it's fifth no-no of the season (sixth if you count the Tigers Armando Galarraga's 28 out perfect game).

- I have expressed at great length my reasoning behind this recent incline in no-hitters. One highly discussed and overly debated word sums it all up; Steroids. Although I think MLB should rectify it's issues with the immediate past as it relates to steroid users (see our poll question), it's tough not to give Commissioner Bud Selig credit for the new crack down on all performance enhancing drugs. Once testing became regular and once public perception of users ruined careers (see Palmeiro, Rafael - McGwire, Mark, - Sosa, Sammy - Clemens, Roger - Bonds, Barry) players, one could assume, became afraid to cheat.

- As the game has weened itself of PEDs statistics have come back down to earth which has led to five no-hitters before August this year alone. Is it fair to say that only hitters were juicing back when testing was non-existent? No, not at all, especially when you factor in how many pitchers that have been implicated by either gossip or failed tests. It is, however, impossible to ignore this trend. It seems like there are one or two run games every night in baseball and it also seems like we have had just as many no-hitters as we have had near no-hitters. Pitchers losing their bid for history in the eighth or ninth innings.

- Take Garza for example. A talented pitcher with a wealth of potential, but the Rays pitcher, after pitching his and Tampa Bay's first ever no hitter has a 4.06 ERA. 4.06 earned runs after nine scoreless and hitless innings on Monday. In fact Garza gave up seven earned just seven days ago in his last outing. He's young (26) and he is on a team in the Rays that is loaded with young talent similar to him. The issue for me, any other year a pitcher like Garza doesn't pitch a no-no.

- 'Roids came into baseball and ruined many of the great All Time record and I think, as a whole, the sport has ignored those players. That is going to have to change soon - especially with Cooperstown losing so much revenue on a regular basis. Now, with baseball closer to an even playing field than in the past 20 plus years, baseball has to deal with the impact of consistent no-no's. For decades batters exploited avenues to find an edge over the pitching in the game. Now pitchers are benefiting, but once again history is suffering.

- I have said repeatedly on the show that although the steroids in baseball seem to be close to done, the Steroid Era is not over. Not yet, not when record holders aren't allowed in to the Hall of Fame and not when pitchers are putting their dent into the record books on an every game basis. Garza is the latest pitcher to go nine without allowing a hit, but you can expect he won't be the last.

Can-Am Speedway - Post 7/21/10 Storm

2010-07-22T10:23:00.000-04:00

College Football Issues

2010-07-21T11:53:00.000-04:00

In the last week football programs across the country have had to deal with possible NCAA investigations. Football programs from Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and even defending BCS champion Alabama have all come under fire in regard to rules violations involving their players and agents.

- The issue of agents infiltrating football programs, or any collegiate athletics, is hardly anything new. Agency firms, boosters, alums, and general fans have found ways to provide benefits for players for decades. However, with the latest round of possible violations involving players either signing with an agent or illegally taking money from an agent it seems like the problems has become an epidemic.

- The schools named in recent reports have mostly denied any wrong doing, but it is still likely some of the teams (if not all) will have to forfeit wins if an illegal player was involved in the games. Is that cutting the core of the issue? Schools already have administration set up to help combat illegal activity in it's athletic department. Coaches already go to great lengths to try and control each and every player 24 hours a day (outside of USC where anything goes). Further punishing the schools isn't exactly helping.

- One way to help, and I mentioned this on the show on Monday, would be to set up restrictions and regulations on the actual agency's that give the benefits to the players. I am not advocating for government involvement, but penalties that actually have an effect on the agency rather the school would probably start to curtail all of this illegal NCAA activity. In all reality it seems like there are more rules violations involving agents by the day, but how many do not get reported? It's far to rampant to stop at the collegiate level, this problem needs to be regulated with the agents themselves.

Boston - Cleveland

2010-05-13T11:43:00.000-04:00

83% of teams that win game five of a series that is locked up at two games apiece go on to win that series. I'm pretty sure you have heard that Boston clobbered Cleveland in game five in Cleveland. Thus, the Cavaliers are not only battling the C's, the road crowd, and the mounting pressure, they're also battling history.

- Will tonight be LeBron James' last game ever as a Cleveland Cavalier? We here at the Sports Fix - not on the air today but back tomorrow! - say....NO. Those writing the epitaph on the 2009-10 Cavs and James' legacy, the NBA plays a best of seven for a reason. Cleveland has already won in Boston (see game three) and I have to believe the Best Player Alive won't go out in a game six tonight.

- Am I rooting for Boston? YES. Is there a big part of me that thinks the Celtics have Cleveland's number and that the pressure suffocating James and head coach Mike Brown could cause another meltdown like in game five? YES. Not to mention that Rajon Rondo is quickly becoming a must watch star and Kevin Garnett actually seems the doctors were wrong, he is alive.

- However, it's do or die and in many ways Bron Bron usually comes through. Is this time different with the pending free agency and change that will inevitably come to Cleveland? Yeah, it is, but I just can't see it all ending this way. Give me Cleveland in game six and I don't think it will be that close. Get ready for game seven in Cleveland on Sunday - which could benefit Boston (again though - let's go C's!).

Fear The Dear!

2010-04-28T10:59:00.000-04:00

Every day on MMSF we play 'Why You Should Be Watching The NBA Playoffs' and today we give you video evidence of what you are missing!

- You are welcome.

Donovan McNabb

2010-04-05T07:25:00.000-04:00

Just about Eleven hours later and I still don't think I have enough in the tank to properly react to my Philadelphia Eagles trading Donovan McNabb to the divisional rival Washington Redskins. Being a fan of Philadelphia is frustrating and not always because of tough losses. Far more often than not the off field issues make being an Eagles fan confusing.

- For weeks now every NFL fan, not just Philly fans, expected McNabb to be traded to either Oakland, Buffalo, or some other AFC cream puff. Then, late on Easter night, we all find out that the Eagles will play McNabb no less than two times a year.

- McNabb will now, after 11 years, enter Philadelphia as a visitor. In many ways it's almost perfect. McNabb was always the 'visitor' to the city and the team's fans. From being booed on draft day in April of 1999 when Eagles fans wanted Ricky Williams over the Syracuse star quarterback to stories of team divide that centered around McNabb. Fans almost always seemed to side with whatever or whomever was against McNabb. Now, for at least one game in Lincoln Financial Field a year, those fans will have a real reason to boo the six time Pro Bowler.

- Evidently new Philly General Manager Howie Roseman wanted McNabb out and head coach Andy Reid wanted to do McNabb right with the deal. A trade to a team like the Raiders would probably make McNabb become another Daunte Culpepper or Drew Bledsoe. Granted, McNabb is much better than those two, but each of them were big time quarterbacks who ended up on losing teams severely altering their legacies.

- The issue then becomes did Reid do right by McNabb by trading him to the Redskins at the same time doing wrong by the team? Philly now will rely on a former Conference USA quarterback who has just a couple of more NFL starts than you or I do. Will Washington jump the Eagles in the NFC East while Philadelphia 'rebuilds'? The business side and the personal side of operations in Philadelphia certainly seemed to blur on the religious holiday of Easter.

- It all had to end at some point, in terms of the core Eagles team that played in five NFC Championship games, but it's almost impossible to understand it ending this way. With former running back Brian Westbrook still looking for work, with great safety Brian Dawkins roaming the secondary in Denver, with Sheldon Brown in Cleveland, and with Donovan McNabb leading the Washington Redskins. Now about 12 hours later and I am still so confused, but such is life when you align yourself with Philadelphia.

Matt Mc's Sports Fix

2010-03-27T14:41:00.000-04:00

This will be an extension of The Blog site. Essentially, an area for us to add more content and have it be be more aesthetically pleasing. Even though we have two hours a day on the air and one web site already, we somehow still need another platform in which to vent!

Thank you for stopping by and look for much more content in the coming weeks. Make sure you tune into ESPN 1410 in Northern New York for Matt Mc's Sports Fix!