Interesting day yesterday. I want to see more time for Ramone Moore as a zone buster for the Owls. I expect us to grind Duquesne into the ground before prolly falling to Richmond on Saturday.
X/Fordham Over 145 -- I feel like the Muskies will do most of the heavy lifting for this. If X can get to 85 or 90 I feel comfortable this hits.
St. Joe/Duquesne Over 143 -- St. Joe's has one of the worst defenses statistically in the country. The Dukes have a lot of weapons. I think this one is a get up and down affair.
Northern Colorado/Montana State Over 137.5 -- These two played earlier and MSU pounded UNC. I feel like payback's a bitch and this one gets up there points-wise. I am concerned that Montana State averages approx 63 on the road but I think once again, the home team does a lot of the heavy lifting.
Drexel +4 -- The Dragons are hot right now. The Tribe is going the other way so I'm going to take my philly boys in a game that they can win outright with stingy defense and timely offense.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Saturday's Selections
Temple/La Salle -- I think Temple wins this game. It was a bad mix of foul trouble, homecooking from the refs and a hot Charlotte team that contributed to their loss. I dont know if I can take Temple -11.5 because I think that's an awful lot for this game. If the Explorers throw one of their clunkers then yes that's a good play. I don't see it coming as they play us tough always. I'm not playing the game but IF you must......Take La Salle +11.5 and I'd even consider a small play on the over. The Owls defense has been a bit leaky lately and I feel like this game could have both teams make the 60's.
My plays:
Rhode Island -10 -- I don't think GW can keep up with the Rams. If URI gets their pace, which im thinking they will, this game will not be close. The Colonials don't have the firepower to keep up with them.
OK State/Missouri Over 145 -- Both teams will want to run in this one. I think this thing is played in the 70's. Missou averages almost 88 at home. That should be plenty.
St. Louis +7.5 -- I'm banking on St. Louis in this one as I think the Spiders struggle to generate momentum without many fans and with the stingy Billiken defense.
Washington -7.5 -- The Cougs won't know what hits them up in U-Dub. I would have thought this would have been a lot higher of a spread. The Huskies are pretty damn good at home. Don't see it being close.
Auburn Pick -- Tigers 7-5 at home with and have won the last two games at home in this series. I think they make it three today.
New Orleans/Western Kentucky Over 123.5 -- WKU will want to quicken the pace and despite UNO's struggling offense, I feel like they will make this game into the 60's or 70's. Just need one team to do the scoring and I feel confident in WKU to do that.
East Carolina -6 -- I dont like making this pick without LuDawg's opinion but I feel confident that this team is better then Rice. Many offensive weapons for the Pirates.
UTEP/UAB Over 131.5 -- I know the Blazers play good defense but I'm not confident enough in them shutting down UTEP. Outside of last year's game on March 4th, this one's been a scorefest. I'm hoping for that once again. BEST PLAY OF THE DAY.
Pacific -3 -- This team just wins games. I love them today against Riverside who I have made fade material lately. I can't imagine them having much of a homecourt advantage.
San Jose State +16 -- Homestand got this team right. I like them to keep it close with Utah State.
Pepperdine +1.5 -- Not too bad of a team. No real reason why I like this but i'm on it.
My plays:
Rhode Island -10 -- I don't think GW can keep up with the Rams. If URI gets their pace, which im thinking they will, this game will not be close. The Colonials don't have the firepower to keep up with them.
OK State/Missouri Over 145 -- Both teams will want to run in this one. I think this thing is played in the 70's. Missou averages almost 88 at home. That should be plenty.
St. Louis +7.5 -- I'm banking on St. Louis in this one as I think the Spiders struggle to generate momentum without many fans and with the stingy Billiken defense.
Washington -7.5 -- The Cougs won't know what hits them up in U-Dub. I would have thought this would have been a lot higher of a spread. The Huskies are pretty damn good at home. Don't see it being close.
Auburn Pick -- Tigers 7-5 at home with and have won the last two games at home in this series. I think they make it three today.
New Orleans/Western Kentucky Over 123.5 -- WKU will want to quicken the pace and despite UNO's struggling offense, I feel like they will make this game into the 60's or 70's. Just need one team to do the scoring and I feel confident in WKU to do that.
East Carolina -6 -- I dont like making this pick without LuDawg's opinion but I feel confident that this team is better then Rice. Many offensive weapons for the Pirates.
UTEP/UAB Over 131.5 -- I know the Blazers play good defense but I'm not confident enough in them shutting down UTEP. Outside of last year's game on March 4th, this one's been a scorefest. I'm hoping for that once again. BEST PLAY OF THE DAY.
Pacific -3 -- This team just wins games. I love them today against Riverside who I have made fade material lately. I can't imagine them having much of a homecourt advantage.
San Jose State +16 -- Homestand got this team right. I like them to keep it close with Utah State.
Pepperdine +1.5 -- Not too bad of a team. No real reason why I like this but i'm on it.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
1/28 Selections
Bad night last night all around. Owls got bitten by homecooking from the Refs. Certainly told me we're not as deep as I thought and that Fernandez and Allen can't get in foul trouble.
Wake Forest +5 -- Think the Demon Deacons can win this one outright. Ga Tech is so flaky. Shut down Lawal and Favors and that team doesnt scare me as much.
Georgia State +16.5 -- Small over unders have me leaning to the underdog getting a ton of points in this one.
Citadel/Ga Southern Over 125 -- This one's gonna be scary but i'll take the team at home who will try to push the pace. Ga Southern's lack of defense should help me on this one too.
Charleston +6 -- Better team getting six points? I'll take it. Steph Curry isn't walking thru that door!
UNT/WKU Over 140 -- Love the pace in this one. Both teams have no problem picking it up. I think this one is played in the 70's.
St. Mary's/Pepperdine Over 148 -- I'm thinking SMC gets to the 80's. With that end Pepperdine can get to the 60's.
Really looking hard at UC Davis too.
Wake Forest +5 -- Think the Demon Deacons can win this one outright. Ga Tech is so flaky. Shut down Lawal and Favors and that team doesnt scare me as much.
Georgia State +16.5 -- Small over unders have me leaning to the underdog getting a ton of points in this one.
Citadel/Ga Southern Over 125 -- This one's gonna be scary but i'll take the team at home who will try to push the pace. Ga Southern's lack of defense should help me on this one too.
Charleston +6 -- Better team getting six points? I'll take it. Steph Curry isn't walking thru that door!
UNT/WKU Over 140 -- Love the pace in this one. Both teams have no problem picking it up. I think this one is played in the 70's.
St. Mary's/Pepperdine Over 148 -- I'm thinking SMC gets to the 80's. With that end Pepperdine can get to the 60's.
Really looking hard at UC Davis too.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Wednesday's Selections
As always, we'll start with the Temple game. This is a tough one for me as Charlotte's hot right now and part of me deep down is still not convinced in this Owls team. They are due to lose but the question is do the Niners have what it takes. Last year Lavoy Allen had a big game against them but this is a different Niners team. They are deficient size-wise but have speed and a nice backcourt. I'm making no official play on this game as I'd really like to see what the Owls do in this one. They arent exactly entering this game on good form. Their defense has been a bit leaky lately excluding the Fordham game. There's better games to bet on in this card then this one. It'll show me a lot if Temple pulls this out.
Elsewhere:
William and Mary -3 -- JMU's homecourt isn't that impressive. The Dukes are inconsistent at best. They may have more athleticism but I think the Tribe is the better team. Can't afford to lose games like this as they actually have a decent resume for an at-large bid.
UNC Wilmington +6 -- Seahawks are the deeper team. Hofstra's bench is kinda short which won't help against the style of UNCW.
Western Michigan +1 -- I've made some money off these guys so I'll take a chance with them at home and the short number.
La Salle/Fordham Over 140 -- I think the Explorers have their way with Fordham. Moderately to quick paced game benefits La Salle. Despite Fordham's scoring struggles I think LS's defense will be more then accommodating.
Tennessee/Vandy Over 146 -- Two quick paced teams. This one's going to be played in the 70's.
Elsewhere:
William and Mary -3 -- JMU's homecourt isn't that impressive. The Dukes are inconsistent at best. They may have more athleticism but I think the Tribe is the better team. Can't afford to lose games like this as they actually have a decent resume for an at-large bid.
UNC Wilmington +6 -- Seahawks are the deeper team. Hofstra's bench is kinda short which won't help against the style of UNCW.
Western Michigan +1 -- I've made some money off these guys so I'll take a chance with them at home and the short number.
La Salle/Fordham Over 140 -- I think the Explorers have their way with Fordham. Moderately to quick paced game benefits La Salle. Despite Fordham's scoring struggles I think LS's defense will be more then accommodating.
Tennessee/Vandy Over 146 -- Two quick paced teams. This one's going to be played in the 70's.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesday's Selections
Unders will rarely be on my card again.
| Maryland -7 -- The Canes don't impress me much. The Terps balanced scoring will be too much for Miami. Clemson/BC Over 136 -- BC is just what Clemson asked for with regards to livening up their offense. I think this one gets up and down. What does concern me is Stitt not playing but I think the Tigers get it done. Kentucky -6.5 -- The Wildcats streak won't end in South Carolina. Not enough horses to keep up. Might be close in the beginning but 2nd half they'll pull away. Rutgers/Marquette over 138 -- Rutgers gives up 82 on the road while Marquette scores that much at home. I just hope the Scarlet Knights do enough to hold up their end. | |
Monday, January 25, 2010
Monday's Selections
4-0 day yesterday made that debacle in the NFL feel better.
St. Joe -6.5 -- At first I thought this was an easy bet but then I wondered about St. Blows and the possibility that they could actually lose this. The Hawks are the better team even though they are struggling big time. They are coming off a win at home against Dayton. Penn has played much worse this season. The Hawks will have their presence at the Palestra.
Under 144 Penn/St. Blow's -- I don't think this is a pretty game. I'm thinking something to the tune of 70-58 in this game placing it under.
Idaho/Boise Over 145 -- The Broncs are more then generous defensively on the road giving up nearly 78 points a game away from home.
SIU/WKU Over 135 -- This isnt your defense-based SIU teams from the past. These guys score 72 points at home. I think this game is moderately paced enough that we get to the 70's and go over this total.
St. Joe -6.5 -- At first I thought this was an easy bet but then I wondered about St. Blows and the possibility that they could actually lose this. The Hawks are the better team even though they are struggling big time. They are coming off a win at home against Dayton. Penn has played much worse this season. The Hawks will have their presence at the Palestra.
Under 144 Penn/St. Blow's -- I don't think this is a pretty game. I'm thinking something to the tune of 70-58 in this game placing it under.
Idaho/Boise Over 145 -- The Broncs are more then generous defensively on the road giving up nearly 78 points a game away from home.
SIU/WKU Over 135 -- This isnt your defense-based SIU teams from the past. These guys score 72 points at home. I think this game is moderately paced enough that we get to the 70's and go over this total.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sunday's Selections
I'm not really in LOVE with anything today. This card is very mediocre but the gambler in me needs to make some plays.
FSU/GT Under 135 -- Two of the better defensive teams in the conference. I think this one could be played in the 60's.
Seton Hall -2 -- Go figure Pittsburgh. I think SH is the more athletic team and should take care of business at home.
Penn State/Wisky Over 115 -- A total this low...I'll take my chance on the over.
Creighton/Missou State Over 138 -- Both teams average in the 70's so I feel like this could be a game played in the 70's.
As I said above...I don't love this card but it's just a few thoughts.
FSU/GT Under 135 -- Two of the better defensive teams in the conference. I think this one could be played in the 60's.
Seton Hall -2 -- Go figure Pittsburgh. I think SH is the more athletic team and should take care of business at home.
Penn State/Wisky Over 115 -- A total this low...I'll take my chance on the over.
Creighton/Missou State Over 138 -- Both teams average in the 70's so I feel like this could be a game played in the 70's.
As I said above...I don't love this card but it's just a few thoughts.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Saturday's Selections...
As always, I'll start out with the Temple game. I have this very sneaky feeling that Fordham covers. I'm not touching this game at all neither total nor spread. One of my personal rules is to never lay that many points on the road. Next up for the Owls is Charlotte on the road which will be tough. I feel like this is an ugly game from the start. If you forced me to take something in this one, give me the under at 128 but i'm not releasing this as a play.
Official Plays:
Drexel -5.5 -- Hofstra just doesnt have the manpower to keep up with Drexel. The Dragons are ridiculously inconsistent but they'll D up Jenkins enough that Hofstra won't be able to score.
Ohio State +5.5 -- West Virginia's not exactly playing great basketball right now. I like the Buckeyes athletes and speed to keep this one close.
Richmond +1 -- GW may be the more athletic team but I'll take the smarter Spiders who won't lose two in a row. There will be a nice Spider presence at the game.
UCLA -1.5 -- Not that I'm a big fan of the Bruins right now but I'm just not convinced of Wazzu. I think the Bruins take care of business at home in this one. The Cougs road woes continue.
Towson +6.5 -- Mason's road team is way different then when they play at home. Towson's not very good but with Hairston and Lee they can keep this one close and maybe win outright.
Over 145 UMass/Baylor -- I think the Guards on both teams do a lot of the work in getting this over. Someone's getting to the 80's in this one.
Over 135.5 UTEP/UCF -- I feel like both teams will get in the 70's. UCF's defense may have shown up against Houston but UTEP has more weapons and neither team will have a problem getting up and down the court.
William and Mary +3.5 -- Odd line as I don't think much changes for the Tribe even after losing to the Rams at VCU. That was a must win for VCU and I think the Tribe's methodical style wins them this game outright over ODU.
Duquesne -4 -- Go figure this line. The Dukes are home and play better there then on the road. I know the Bonnies won at UMass but I think the Dukes are the better team.
Stanford -6 -- Oregon's falling miserably as of late. I think the Cardinal will continue to play well at home. The Ducks streak of bad luck continues.
San Jose State -3.5 -- The Spartans win this one by a lot. New Mexico State nearly blew it at Hawaii and have to continue on the road with a short turn-around against the Spartans.
On the Radar:
Villanova -5 -- I don't see how St. Johns can keep up with the guards of the Vilecats.
Boston College +7.5 -- Both teams are so inconsistent but I think that the Eagles have more firepower then the Hokies do.
Illinois +1.5 -- There will be more Illini fans at this game then NW fans. Color me not a NW fan but I think Illinois is the better team.
Official Plays:
Drexel -5.5 -- Hofstra just doesnt have the manpower to keep up with Drexel. The Dragons are ridiculously inconsistent but they'll D up Jenkins enough that Hofstra won't be able to score.
Ohio State +5.5 -- West Virginia's not exactly playing great basketball right now. I like the Buckeyes athletes and speed to keep this one close.
Richmond +1 -- GW may be the more athletic team but I'll take the smarter Spiders who won't lose two in a row. There will be a nice Spider presence at the game.
UCLA -1.5 -- Not that I'm a big fan of the Bruins right now but I'm just not convinced of Wazzu. I think the Bruins take care of business at home in this one. The Cougs road woes continue.
Towson +6.5 -- Mason's road team is way different then when they play at home. Towson's not very good but with Hairston and Lee they can keep this one close and maybe win outright.
Over 145 UMass/Baylor -- I think the Guards on both teams do a lot of the work in getting this over. Someone's getting to the 80's in this one.
Over 135.5 UTEP/UCF -- I feel like both teams will get in the 70's. UCF's defense may have shown up against Houston but UTEP has more weapons and neither team will have a problem getting up and down the court.
William and Mary +3.5 -- Odd line as I don't think much changes for the Tribe even after losing to the Rams at VCU. That was a must win for VCU and I think the Tribe's methodical style wins them this game outright over ODU.
Duquesne -4 -- Go figure this line. The Dukes are home and play better there then on the road. I know the Bonnies won at UMass but I think the Dukes are the better team.
Stanford -6 -- Oregon's falling miserably as of late. I think the Cardinal will continue to play well at home. The Ducks streak of bad luck continues.
San Jose State -3.5 -- The Spartans win this one by a lot. New Mexico State nearly blew it at Hawaii and have to continue on the road with a short turn-around against the Spartans.
On the Radar:
Villanova -5 -- I don't see how St. Johns can keep up with the guards of the Vilecats.
Boston College +7.5 -- Both teams are so inconsistent but I think that the Eagles have more firepower then the Hokies do.
Illinois +1.5 -- There will be more Illini fans at this game then NW fans. Color me not a NW fan but I think Illinois is the better team.
Friday's Selections
Great day yesterday once again....San Jose State was an outright winner.
Charleston -3 -- Very odd that these teams are playing on back to back days but I'll lean to the home team who doesnt have to travel. Granted the travel isnt that far but I'll still lean to the team who is home in this one. Besides I like them more then Wofford.
Manhattan +4 -- They are a solid team at home. I'll take the short line in this one for a team that I think is better then Iona at home.
Northern Colorado/Sac State Over 137 -- UNC averages 91 points at home. They should have their way with Sac State.
Charleston -3 -- Very odd that these teams are playing on back to back days but I'll lean to the home team who doesnt have to travel. Granted the travel isnt that far but I'll still lean to the team who is home in this one. Besides I like them more then Wofford.
Manhattan +4 -- They are a solid team at home. I'll take the short line in this one for a team that I think is better then Iona at home.
Northern Colorado/Sac State Over 137 -- UNC averages 91 points at home. They should have their way with Sac State.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday's Selections
Thank goodness for my Owls and La Salle that made it a profitable night. Anyways, here's today's picks...
The Citadel +2 -- Close series at home for these two teams. For some reason, this game stood out for me.
Siena -8 1H -- Loyola will potentially be without their top two scorers for this one. I think Siena runs out on these guys and has a nice lead at half.
WKU/Troy Over 143 -- One team has scored at least 80 in the last three meetings of this series. I don't see that being a problem this year either.
Stanford -6.5 -- I'm hoping the bad Oregon State shows up. Stanford's pretty good at home.
San Jose State +7 -- Adrian Oliver and the boys should keep this close despite La Tech's record.
Cal Poly -1 -- Odd line as Riverside hasn't shown much this season. Then again neither has the Mustangs but I'll take them at home with a short number.
The Citadel +2 -- Close series at home for these two teams. For some reason, this game stood out for me.
Siena -8 1H -- Loyola will potentially be without their top two scorers for this one. I think Siena runs out on these guys and has a nice lead at half.
WKU/Troy Over 143 -- One team has scored at least 80 in the last three meetings of this series. I don't see that being a problem this year either.
Stanford -6.5 -- I'm hoping the bad Oregon State shows up. Stanford's pretty good at home.
San Jose State +7 -- Adrian Oliver and the boys should keep this close despite La Tech's record.
Cal Poly -1 -- Odd line as Riverside hasn't shown much this season. Then again neither has the Mustangs but I'll take them at home with a short number.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Wednesday's Selections
Record: 1-2
Alright, let's begin with the Owls and X....As mentioned many times in this thread I've been way off on my beloved Temple even though last week I did have UMass. I maintain this team has done it thru smoke and mirrors. Having watched X against Dayton the Muskies don't like being D'd up. Ryan Brooks has done an excellent job against the best player of the other team so Crawford will have a tough time. The Muskies looked mighty lost against Dayton without him. I really think that the Owls win this one. The students will be back and the place will be electric. Temple's won two straight at home against X and won a tough one last year in the A-10 tourney over them. Give me Temple -3 and my A-10 tourney bid plz.
MONSTER PLAY
Those of you who follow my threads know that I don't often tout plays as bigger then others. Too much pressure and too much to lose if they are wrong. I feel so strongly about this that I'm willing to go nuts on it. Give me La Salle -10. Last year I remember boasting about this team in this game and they came up just short. As a matter of fact, I remember the spread being 10 and it falling short. This year's game is even more lopsided. Penn is terrible...absolutely hideous. Bernadini may be back but even with him they arent that good. The key here for La Salle is getting Barrett back....I dont care if he plays or not but I love this. The Explorers are going to work hard to get Rodney Green back on track. He has struggled with his shot and has had his PPG go down as the season works along. There's no one on that team that can cover Green and oh yeah...then you got Aaric Murray (who should be an Owl). I think La Salle pounds them. I'm going to go big on the 1H and game spreads....
Elsewhere:
Duquesne/Rhode Island Over 146 -- This game will be so ridiculously paced that I think it sails over. URI should hopefully put up somewhere in the 80's.
Houston -12 -- UCF is such a young team who plays almost no defense on the road. I watched their game against Tulsa and I just can't see the Golden Knights keeping up with the Cougs.
Also on the radar:
Richmond/Charlotte Under 134
Western Michigan -2.5
UAB -11
App State/Georgia Southern Over 146
VCU/Tribe Under 141
UTEP +8
Will be back tomorrow to confirm these after more research.
Alright, let's begin with the Owls and X....As mentioned many times in this thread I've been way off on my beloved Temple even though last week I did have UMass. I maintain this team has done it thru smoke and mirrors. Having watched X against Dayton the Muskies don't like being D'd up. Ryan Brooks has done an excellent job against the best player of the other team so Crawford will have a tough time. The Muskies looked mighty lost against Dayton without him. I really think that the Owls win this one. The students will be back and the place will be electric. Temple's won two straight at home against X and won a tough one last year in the A-10 tourney over them. Give me Temple -3 and my A-10 tourney bid plz.
MONSTER PLAY
Those of you who follow my threads know that I don't often tout plays as bigger then others. Too much pressure and too much to lose if they are wrong. I feel so strongly about this that I'm willing to go nuts on it. Give me La Salle -10. Last year I remember boasting about this team in this game and they came up just short. As a matter of fact, I remember the spread being 10 and it falling short. This year's game is even more lopsided. Penn is terrible...absolutely hideous. Bernadini may be back but even with him they arent that good. The key here for La Salle is getting Barrett back....I dont care if he plays or not but I love this. The Explorers are going to work hard to get Rodney Green back on track. He has struggled with his shot and has had his PPG go down as the season works along. There's no one on that team that can cover Green and oh yeah...then you got Aaric Murray (who should be an Owl). I think La Salle pounds them. I'm going to go big on the 1H and game spreads....
Elsewhere:
Duquesne/Rhode Island Over 146 -- This game will be so ridiculously paced that I think it sails over. URI should hopefully put up somewhere in the 80's.
Houston -12 -- UCF is such a young team who plays almost no defense on the road. I watched their game against Tulsa and I just can't see the Golden Knights keeping up with the Cougs.
Also on the radar:
Richmond/Charlotte Under 134
Western Michigan -2.5
UAB -11
App State/Georgia Southern Over 146
VCU/Tribe Under 141
UTEP +8
Will be back tomorrow to confirm these after more research.
Tuesday Evening Selections
Alabama +2 -- The lack of scholarship players has to eventually catch up to Tennessee. I'm not a believer in the Vols yet so I'm going to play the home dog tonight.
Over 137.5 A&M/Oklahoma -- The Sooners defense away from home allows almost 82 points per game. That's a shocking number and one of the reasons I'm going over in this game.
Miami/BC Over 133 -- Miami scores almost 80 at home and will want to get their trip to the Virginia schools out of their system. Look for the Canes to get to at least 70-75 which should be enough for this to hit.
Over 137.5 A&M/Oklahoma -- The Sooners defense away from home allows almost 82 points per game. That's a shocking number and one of the reasons I'm going over in this game.
Miami/BC Over 133 -- Miami scores almost 80 at home and will want to get their trip to the Virginia schools out of their system. Look for the Canes to get to at least 70-75 which should be enough for this to hit.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Way too Early Bracketology...
Since I'm a college basketball nerd watching a basketball game between Fresno State and Louisiana Tech, I figured why not jump into the whole field of 65 thing....it can't be that hard now could it.
America East (1) -- Vermont
ACC (5)
Definitely In -- Duke, Clemson, UNC, GT, VT
On the Bubble -- FSU
Needs Work -- Maryland, UVA, NC State
Analysis: The conference is acquitting itself nicely right now. Plenty of opportunities for quality wins and if UVA hangs around and shows some staying power, a fanbase that wasn't in love with Tony Bennett may change their tune. Granted some of them loved him from the start but others needed some help
A-Sun (1) -- Campbell
Atlantic 10 (5)
Definitely In -- Xavier, Rhode Island, Temple, Richmond, Dayton
Needs Work -- Charlotte
Analysis: Who would have thought that this conference would have five pretty strong cases for tournament teams? As a Temple guy, who would have thought they'd be questionably the best team in the league. Richmond's out of conference schedule puts them in line for a nice seeding come tourney time. Xavier and Dayton were figured to be here so it's nice to see some company. This conference's RPI has been a surprise as well and if Charlotte does some good things, they have an outside shot.
Big East (9)
Definitely In -- West Virginia, Syracuse, Nova, Pittsburgh, Georgetown, UConn, Louisville, Note Dame, Cincinnati
Needs Work -- St. John's, Marquette, Seton Hall
Analysis: As always the Big East will be there in the end with the most bids. This is the best conference in basketball and because of that there's a lot of chances for St. John's and Cincinnati and Marquette to get in the tourney. This may be the year they get 10 in especially with the downfall of the PAC 10 among others
Big Sky (1) -- Northern Colorado (WATCH OUT FOR THEM COME TOURNEY TIME)
Big South (1) -- Coastal Carolina
Big 10 (5)
Definitely In -- Michigan State, Wisconsin, Purdue, Ohio State, Minnesota,
Needs Work -- Illinois, Northwestern
Analysis: This conference is very top heavy. Still the four-six teams who could make the tournament won't be easy outs like in past years.
Big 12 (7)
Definitely In -- Texas, Missou, Kansas, Kansas State, Baylor, Ok State, Texas A&M
Analysis: Can someone tell me why Kansas State is ranked so high? Mark it down now, with the right matchup, they are a first round out. Them and Wisconsin will fall early in the field of 65.
Big West (1) -- Pacific (MAJOR LEAGUE PAIN IN THE BUTT)
CAA (1) -- William and Mary
Analysis: I'd love to put the Rams here and trust me...they are one of a FEW teams who can do it but the inconsistency scares me. VCU's talent is right up there with ODU and Northeastern in this league but can they put it together in the conference tournament for a night after night. I don't think so i'll go with the Tribe and the best coach in the league. I can't see a 2nd bid here unless the Tribe run thru the league like a knife thru hot butter.
Conference USA (1) -- UAB
Needs Work -- Memphis, Tulsa, Marshall
Analysis: So odd to see Memphis not in the other category but they havent beaten anyone of note this season yet. Unfortunately for them, this conference doesnt give them many opportunities to do so so they may have to win the conference to ensure themselves a bid. Watch out for the Blazers who are a solid team and Tulsa could scare someone if they get in. They have a kid named Jordan who has a ton of moves in the post.
Horizon (1) -- Butler
Ivy League (2) -- Cornell, Harvard
Analysis: Harvard could mess this up a bit and there's a chance that this conference could get two bids if Harvard/Cornell split and Harvard somehow wins. Cornell's got a nice resume and would really force the committee to consider two teams.
MAAC (1) -- Siena
MAC (1) -- Western Michigan
MEAC (1) -- Morgan State
MVC (2) -- Northern Iowa, Wichita State
Analysis: Before last night's 0 for 3 by the Big 12 home teams...UNI handed the Big 12 their only non conference home loss when they won at Iowa State. This conference always produces a threat or two to the BCS conferences. Both of these teams could produce an upset or two.
Mountain West (2) -- UNLV, BYU
Work to be done: New Mexico, Colorado State
Analysis: Those transfers down in UNLV land are helping out big time. The Rebels playing like the teams under Jerry Tarkanian.
NEC (1) -- Quinnipiac
OVC (1) -- Murray State
PAC 10 (1) -- Washington
Analysis: There's a good chance this conference could get only one. No one is really separating themselves from the pack and the lack of good victories for any team here is alarming. California and Arizona State are also possible here.
Patriot (1) -- Lafayette
SEC (5) -- Kentucky, Tennessee, Miss State, Ole Miss, Vandy
Needs Work: Alabama, South Carolina, Florida
Analysis: The Volunteer story is a good one. That win over Kansas was amazing considering the circumstances. Unfortunately this is another team with an early exit in their future. Their style is conducive to a lot of turnovers which keeps a lesser seed hanging around.
Southern (1) -- Charleston
Southland (1) -- SE Louisiana
SWAC (1) -- Jackson State
Summit (1) -- IUPUI
Sun Belt (1) -- Western Kentucky
West Coast (2) -- St. Mary's and Gonzaga
WAC (1) -- La Tech
First time thru the list, I picked 58 teams.....After that I added VT, Notre Dame, Cincinnati, Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, Minnesota. Got to the final spot and decided to cheat putting Cornell in too.
We'll keep this updated and we'll add some teams/players to watch.
America East (1) -- Vermont
ACC (5)
Definitely In -- Duke, Clemson, UNC, GT, VT
On the Bubble -- FSU
Needs Work -- Maryland, UVA, NC State
Analysis: The conference is acquitting itself nicely right now. Plenty of opportunities for quality wins and if UVA hangs around and shows some staying power, a fanbase that wasn't in love with Tony Bennett may change their tune. Granted some of them loved him from the start but others needed some help
A-Sun (1) -- Campbell
Atlantic 10 (5)
Definitely In -- Xavier, Rhode Island, Temple, Richmond, Dayton
Needs Work -- Charlotte
Analysis: Who would have thought that this conference would have five pretty strong cases for tournament teams? As a Temple guy, who would have thought they'd be questionably the best team in the league. Richmond's out of conference schedule puts them in line for a nice seeding come tourney time. Xavier and Dayton were figured to be here so it's nice to see some company. This conference's RPI has been a surprise as well and if Charlotte does some good things, they have an outside shot.
Big East (9)
Definitely In -- West Virginia, Syracuse, Nova, Pittsburgh, Georgetown, UConn, Louisville, Note Dame, Cincinnati
Needs Work -- St. John's, Marquette, Seton Hall
Analysis: As always the Big East will be there in the end with the most bids. This is the best conference in basketball and because of that there's a lot of chances for St. John's and Cincinnati and Marquette to get in the tourney. This may be the year they get 10 in especially with the downfall of the PAC 10 among others
Big Sky (1) -- Northern Colorado (WATCH OUT FOR THEM COME TOURNEY TIME)
Big South (1) -- Coastal Carolina
Big 10 (5)
Definitely In -- Michigan State, Wisconsin, Purdue, Ohio State, Minnesota,
Needs Work -- Illinois, Northwestern
Analysis: This conference is very top heavy. Still the four-six teams who could make the tournament won't be easy outs like in past years.
Big 12 (7)
Definitely In -- Texas, Missou, Kansas, Kansas State, Baylor, Ok State, Texas A&M
Analysis: Can someone tell me why Kansas State is ranked so high? Mark it down now, with the right matchup, they are a first round out. Them and Wisconsin will fall early in the field of 65.
Big West (1) -- Pacific (MAJOR LEAGUE PAIN IN THE BUTT)
CAA (1) -- William and Mary
Analysis: I'd love to put the Rams here and trust me...they are one of a FEW teams who can do it but the inconsistency scares me. VCU's talent is right up there with ODU and Northeastern in this league but can they put it together in the conference tournament for a night after night. I don't think so i'll go with the Tribe and the best coach in the league. I can't see a 2nd bid here unless the Tribe run thru the league like a knife thru hot butter.
Conference USA (1) -- UAB
Needs Work -- Memphis, Tulsa, Marshall
Analysis: So odd to see Memphis not in the other category but they havent beaten anyone of note this season yet. Unfortunately for them, this conference doesnt give them many opportunities to do so so they may have to win the conference to ensure themselves a bid. Watch out for the Blazers who are a solid team and Tulsa could scare someone if they get in. They have a kid named Jordan who has a ton of moves in the post.
Horizon (1) -- Butler
Ivy League (2) -- Cornell, Harvard
Analysis: Harvard could mess this up a bit and there's a chance that this conference could get two bids if Harvard/Cornell split and Harvard somehow wins. Cornell's got a nice resume and would really force the committee to consider two teams.
MAAC (1) -- Siena
MAC (1) -- Western Michigan
MEAC (1) -- Morgan State
MVC (2) -- Northern Iowa, Wichita State
Analysis: Before last night's 0 for 3 by the Big 12 home teams...UNI handed the Big 12 their only non conference home loss when they won at Iowa State. This conference always produces a threat or two to the BCS conferences. Both of these teams could produce an upset or two.
Mountain West (2) -- UNLV, BYU
Work to be done: New Mexico, Colorado State
Analysis: Those transfers down in UNLV land are helping out big time. The Rebels playing like the teams under Jerry Tarkanian.
NEC (1) -- Quinnipiac
OVC (1) -- Murray State
PAC 10 (1) -- Washington
Analysis: There's a good chance this conference could get only one. No one is really separating themselves from the pack and the lack of good victories for any team here is alarming. California and Arizona State are also possible here.
Patriot (1) -- Lafayette
SEC (5) -- Kentucky, Tennessee, Miss State, Ole Miss, Vandy
Needs Work: Alabama, South Carolina, Florida
Analysis: The Volunteer story is a good one. That win over Kansas was amazing considering the circumstances. Unfortunately this is another team with an early exit in their future. Their style is conducive to a lot of turnovers which keeps a lesser seed hanging around.
Southern (1) -- Charleston
Southland (1) -- SE Louisiana
SWAC (1) -- Jackson State
Summit (1) -- IUPUI
Sun Belt (1) -- Western Kentucky
West Coast (2) -- St. Mary's and Gonzaga
WAC (1) -- La Tech
First time thru the list, I picked 58 teams.....After that I added VT, Notre Dame, Cincinnati, Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, Minnesota. Got to the final spot and decided to cheat putting Cornell in too.
We'll keep this updated and we'll add some teams/players to watch.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Time for more Opinions
For those who listen to Hardly Workin, I'm a very opinionated person and I don't mind sticking my neck out if I firmly believe in something. For those who don't listen to the show, time for you to get educated on some of my current sports beliefs. While some think I do it to spur calls for Greg's show, I actually believe this stuff with a lot of my heart.
- The hall of fame put Andre Dawson in yesterday. A lot of the talk surrounds those who didnt vote and those who didnt get in. To me, you get three chances to get in...if you arent good enough for the voters to put you in during that timespan then you arent worth it. I mean, this is the hall of fame...the best players in the sport...the guys that you will tell your children about when they ask about the greats in baseball. I feel that Cooperstown is watered down as it is. Bert Blyleven has been on the ballot for 13 years...to me, that's it. He's had WAY too many chances to get in yet his vote total keeps increasing. If you like the guy now, why didnt you like him then? Also, please don't try and tell me that Blyleven is a hall of famer. If you told me to name top pitchers in his decade, he doesnt come along in the top 15 or 20 which should clue you in that he's not a hall of famer.
- The bowls need to stay. I'll begin this with the fact that I was all for the playoffs in college football but i'm slowly coming away from that. No matter how big or small you make a playoff, you'll leave someone out. College football's regular season might be the most important regular season in all of sports putting emphasis on every game and every play because one loss can kill your season and can end your chances for the title. Yes, it is unfair that Boise and TCU didnt get a chance to play in the title game and i'm as angry as anyone else about this but i'm just not as jazzed about a playoff. Next year will be the true test for Boise who should be top 5 and will have the schedule to move up into the title contendership. I think the first change college football needs to make is to scrap the preseason top 25 and make the first one appear week 3 or 4 of the season. That hurt Boise/TCU more then their results as they couldnt make up enough ground to get to the title game.
- I want to start the hype for Boise and VT next season. The winner of this game should be in the title game by virtue of their victory over the other. Boise will be returning a ton of starters to this game while the Hokies will bring back their potent offense looking for O-Line help. If I was to set an early line for this game, i'd install the Hokies a four point favorite. Neutral field helps keep this line down and Boise being the more experienced team. It'll be interesting to see if Beamerball can prevent the Broncos from beating them with trick special teams plays.
- College basketball season is upon us and if i'm doing a power ranking system of the state/area schools i'd give William and Mary the lead with Richmond, ODU, VT and VCU rounding out the top five. Having seen the Hokies a few times this season, I'm impressed with their roster. That win over Seton Hall told me a lot since they didnt have Delaney and depended on Dorenzo Hudson to get them the victory. If they had a balanced effort against Temple, they'd be undefeated and higher up on the power poll.
- The Redskins....I go back and forth on them. At one point this season, I said they had one of the most talented defenses in the league and they do but I can't help but think the roster as a whole needs work. Much props to Jason Campbell for setting Clinton Portis in his place. Campbell took a beating this season and deserves to dish it out. Portis sat on the sidelines after a concussion and was a cancer to the locker room according to Campbell. Clinton's not going to be back and I think it's for the best. Keep Betts, Rock and Ganther for the backfield or trade down in the 1st round and take CJ Spiller and fill another hole as well. Shanahan will be a good hire but he's going to have to have patience. The O-Line and skill positions need some tweaking before this team can compete in the NFC East.
- Pitchers and Catchers Report in February....Is there a better phrase in sports? There's something about baseball that just warms the soul of many Americans across the country. I'm excited for baseball already even though we are in the heat of College basketball season.
- Winter Olympics are coming soon as well...Defintely stoked for this as well. Oddly I find myself becoming more patriotic during this time period. Looking forward to the curling and hockey among other events.
- NFL playoffs time...I've pretty much laid out my rooting interests. In the NFC ultimately it's about my Eagles. When/If they get eliminated, it's about exposing the Saints and the frauds that they are. Ideally i'd like it to be Philly who does it but Green Bay or Arizona would be suffice. I hope Favre and Dallas lose early as well. In the AFC, I've been partial to the Jets who are the cousins of the Eagles. Lewd fanbase/great fans, name spelling and same colors make them a fanbase that I can identify with. The Ravens entice me as well. Love watching the Rays (Lewis and Rice). Ultimately I'm predicting a Packers/Cardinals vs. Chargers superbowl. Green Bay has the defense to slow down the Vikings and Saints.
- Finally, being that March is a mere two months away, it's time for sports fans to plan the ultimate trip. Vegas for the first two rounds of March Madness is the place to be. Your living room is nice and all but try watching a game with a little cash on the line with a couple hundred of your closest friends in their college gear and screaming any basket in every game. It's something you have to experience and I think once you do, you'll make it an every year thing. Not to mention, there are plenty of pretty girls who go out there at this time as well.
For more of my opinions that I like to say on a day to day basis, tune in to Hardly Workin with Greg Burton, 4-7pm on ESPN 950 and ESPN950am.com
- The hall of fame put Andre Dawson in yesterday. A lot of the talk surrounds those who didnt vote and those who didnt get in. To me, you get three chances to get in...if you arent good enough for the voters to put you in during that timespan then you arent worth it. I mean, this is the hall of fame...the best players in the sport...the guys that you will tell your children about when they ask about the greats in baseball. I feel that Cooperstown is watered down as it is. Bert Blyleven has been on the ballot for 13 years...to me, that's it. He's had WAY too many chances to get in yet his vote total keeps increasing. If you like the guy now, why didnt you like him then? Also, please don't try and tell me that Blyleven is a hall of famer. If you told me to name top pitchers in his decade, he doesnt come along in the top 15 or 20 which should clue you in that he's not a hall of famer.
- The bowls need to stay. I'll begin this with the fact that I was all for the playoffs in college football but i'm slowly coming away from that. No matter how big or small you make a playoff, you'll leave someone out. College football's regular season might be the most important regular season in all of sports putting emphasis on every game and every play because one loss can kill your season and can end your chances for the title. Yes, it is unfair that Boise and TCU didnt get a chance to play in the title game and i'm as angry as anyone else about this but i'm just not as jazzed about a playoff. Next year will be the true test for Boise who should be top 5 and will have the schedule to move up into the title contendership. I think the first change college football needs to make is to scrap the preseason top 25 and make the first one appear week 3 or 4 of the season. That hurt Boise/TCU more then their results as they couldnt make up enough ground to get to the title game.
- I want to start the hype for Boise and VT next season. The winner of this game should be in the title game by virtue of their victory over the other. Boise will be returning a ton of starters to this game while the Hokies will bring back their potent offense looking for O-Line help. If I was to set an early line for this game, i'd install the Hokies a four point favorite. Neutral field helps keep this line down and Boise being the more experienced team. It'll be interesting to see if Beamerball can prevent the Broncos from beating them with trick special teams plays.
- College basketball season is upon us and if i'm doing a power ranking system of the state/area schools i'd give William and Mary the lead with Richmond, ODU, VT and VCU rounding out the top five. Having seen the Hokies a few times this season, I'm impressed with their roster. That win over Seton Hall told me a lot since they didnt have Delaney and depended on Dorenzo Hudson to get them the victory. If they had a balanced effort against Temple, they'd be undefeated and higher up on the power poll.
- The Redskins....I go back and forth on them. At one point this season, I said they had one of the most talented defenses in the league and they do but I can't help but think the roster as a whole needs work. Much props to Jason Campbell for setting Clinton Portis in his place. Campbell took a beating this season and deserves to dish it out. Portis sat on the sidelines after a concussion and was a cancer to the locker room according to Campbell. Clinton's not going to be back and I think it's for the best. Keep Betts, Rock and Ganther for the backfield or trade down in the 1st round and take CJ Spiller and fill another hole as well. Shanahan will be a good hire but he's going to have to have patience. The O-Line and skill positions need some tweaking before this team can compete in the NFC East.
- Pitchers and Catchers Report in February....Is there a better phrase in sports? There's something about baseball that just warms the soul of many Americans across the country. I'm excited for baseball already even though we are in the heat of College basketball season.
- Winter Olympics are coming soon as well...Defintely stoked for this as well. Oddly I find myself becoming more patriotic during this time period. Looking forward to the curling and hockey among other events.
- NFL playoffs time...I've pretty much laid out my rooting interests. In the NFC ultimately it's about my Eagles. When/If they get eliminated, it's about exposing the Saints and the frauds that they are. Ideally i'd like it to be Philly who does it but Green Bay or Arizona would be suffice. I hope Favre and Dallas lose early as well. In the AFC, I've been partial to the Jets who are the cousins of the Eagles. Lewd fanbase/great fans, name spelling and same colors make them a fanbase that I can identify with. The Ravens entice me as well. Love watching the Rays (Lewis and Rice). Ultimately I'm predicting a Packers/Cardinals vs. Chargers superbowl. Green Bay has the defense to slow down the Vikings and Saints.
- Finally, being that March is a mere two months away, it's time for sports fans to plan the ultimate trip. Vegas for the first two rounds of March Madness is the place to be. Your living room is nice and all but try watching a game with a little cash on the line with a couple hundred of your closest friends in their college gear and screaming any basket in every game. It's something you have to experience and I think once you do, you'll make it an every year thing. Not to mention, there are plenty of pretty girls who go out there at this time as well.
For more of my opinions that I like to say on a day to day basis, tune in to Hardly Workin with Greg Burton, 4-7pm on ESPN 950 and ESPN950am.com
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