LSU/Alabama

LSU by 3

Big 10 Picks 11/5

Michigan St over Minnesota

Michigan over Iowa

Nebraska over Northwestern

Wisconsin over Purdue

Ohio St over Indiana

Big 10 Week 5

Michigan over Purdue
Nebraska over Michigan State
Northwestern over Indiana
Wisconsin over Ohio State Penn over Illinois Iowa over Minnesota

Big 10 Week 4 Picks

Another week of perfect picks? Incredible. 15-0 in Big10 picks! Full grid here

Michigan and Ohio State have off this week.
Winners in Bold

Indiana vs Iowa


Nebraska @ Minnesota

Penn State @ Northwestern

Wisconsin @ Michigan State

This next game is the one I had the most trouble with this week. My preseason projections had Purdue winning this game, but Illinois has been better than expected. Illinois is currently sitting as a 4 point favorite, but Purdue has won 5 of the last 6 games against Illinois. I'm gonna stick with Purdue

Illinois @ Purdue

NFC Projections 10/20

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:
Packers 14-2

Lions 11-5  (Wildcard)
Bears 8-8
Vikings 2-14

NFC South:
Saints 13-3
Falcons 11-5 (Wildcard)

Bucs 10-6
Panthers 5-11


NFC East:

Eagles 11-5

Cowboys 10-6

Giants 9-7

Redskins 8-8

NFC West:

49ers 10-6
Seahawks 6-10
Cardinals 6-10
Rams 3-13

Playoff Seeds

1. Packers

2. Saints

3. Eagles

4. 49ers

5. Falcons

6. Lions

AFC Projections 10/20

Playoff teams in bold. Full grid here

AFC North:

Steelers 13-3

Ravens 13-3 (Wildcard)

Bengals 6-0
Browns 5-11

AFC South:

Texans 11-5

Titans 6-10
Colts 5-11

Jaguars 1-15

AFC East:

Patriots 13-3

Bills 10-6
Jets 8-8

Dolphins 4-12

AFC West:

Chargers 11-5

Raiders 10-6 (Wildcard)

Chiefs 4-12

Broncos 4-12

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Patriots

3. Chargers

4. Texans

5. Ravens

6. Raiders

NFL Picks Week 6

Last Week (8-5)

Winners in Bold


Panthers vs Falcons

Bills vs Giants

Colts vs Bengals

49ers vs Lions

Rams vs Packers

Eagles vs Redskins

Jaguars vs Steelers

Browns vs Raiders

Texans vs Ravens

Cowboys vs Patriots

Saints vs Bucs

Vikings vs Bears

Dolphins vs Jets

AFC Projections 10/11

Playoff teams in bold. Full grid here

AFC North:

Steelers 14-2

Ravens 13-3 (Wildcard)

Browns 5-11

Bengals 5-11

AFC South:

Texans 11-5

Colts 6-10

Titans 6-10

Jaguars 1-15

AFC East:

Patriots 13-3

Jets 9-7
Bills 10-6

Dolphins 5-11

AFC West:

Chargers 11-5

Raiders 10-6 (Wildcard)

Chiefs 4-12

Broncos 3-13

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Patriots

3. Chargers

4. Texans

5. Ravens

6. Raiders

NFC Predictions 10/11

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:
Packers 14-2

Lions 12-4  (Wildcard)
Bears 8-8
Vikings 3-13

NFC South:
Saints 14-2
Falcons 11-5 (Wildcard)

Bucs 9-7

Panthers 5-11

NFC East:

Eagles 10-6

Cowboys 10-6

Giants 8-8

Redskins 8-8

NFC West:

49ers 8-8
Seahawks 6-10
Cardinals 5-11
Rams 3-13

Playoff Seeds

1. Packers

2. Saints

3. Eagles

4. 49ers

5. Lions

6. Falcons

Big 10 Week 3 Picks

After another perfect week of Big 10 picks, I am now sitting at 10-0. I probably won't be undefeated after this week. My chart of picks is here and has yet to be changed from the preseason

Going into Week 3, Nebraska and Minnesota have bye weeks and the most interesting matchup is Ohio State @ Illinois which should be a good game to watch.

Winners in Bold

Ohio State vs Illinois

Indiana vs Wisconsin

Northwestern vs Iowa

Michigan vs Michigan State

Purdue vs Penn State

NCAA Game of the Week

Auburn @ Arkansas
This is the biggest game of the week. Sure, Florida and LSU's might also feature two ranked teams and the current #1, but does anyone think Florida has a chance?
Either one of these teams can win this game which makes it much more exciting for us to watch as impartial fans. 

Having said that, expect Arkansas to run away with this one. Auburn should score a bunch late to make the score seem closer than it really is. I don't think Auburn is for real, and while they have looked great, that ends here. Arkansas over Auburn 38-27

Beast or Breakable 4

49ers - Breakable
While the 49ers have gone out and won some big games, I think that before long, question will begin to arise once again at quarterback. Alex Smith is not the answer and the stellar running backs on this team can not do it all by themselves.
The Niners can easily win this division by piecing together 7 wins, but I'm not buying into their wins so far.

Chiefs - Breakable

So the Chiefs won a game against the Vikings. There is nothing to see here. When two 0-3 teams play, someone has to win. They looked uninspired (understandable after losing your franchise running back) and failed to score a TD until a corner slipped while covering Bowe. Succup, the kicker has proven himself to fantasy football players everywhere, but he does not come close to making the Chiefs relevant.

Giants - Beast

This team lives and dies with Eli Manning. This past week he showed that he still has the capability to come back and win games in amazing fashion. As long as Eli keeps playing to his potential and Giants fans aren't subjected to the bad Eli, this team has a shot at the NFC East. In a division that can be theirs with consistent play, the Giants might have a team that can stay just above mediocre. 

NFL Picks Week 5

Winners in Bold


Eagles vs Bills

Bengals vs Jaguars

Titans vs Steelers


Chiefs vs Colts

Raiders vs Texans

Cardinals vs Vikings

Saints vs Panthers

Seahawks vs Giants

Bucs vs 49ers

Chargers vs Broncos

Jets vs Patriots

Packers vs Falcons

Bears vs Lions

Playoff Predictions after 4 games

NFC Playoff Seeds

1. Saints

2. Packers

3. Cowboys

4. Rams

5. Lions

6. Falcons

Falcons @ Cowboys

Lions @ Rams

Falcons @ Saints

Lions @ Packers

NFC Championship

Packers @ Saints

AFC Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Texans

3. Patriots

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

Jets @ Patriots

Ravens @ Chargers

Patriots @ Steelers

Ravens @ Texans

AFC Championship

Ravens @ Patriots

Superbowl

Saints @ Ravens

AFC Predictions 10/4

Playoff teams in bold. Full grid here

AFC North:

Steelers 14-2

Ravens 13-3 (Wildcard)

Browns 5-11

Bengals 3-13

AFC South:

Texans 12-4

Colts 8-8

Titans 6-10

Jaguars 2-14

AFC East:

Patriots 12-4

Jets 11-5 (Wildcard)
Bills 7-9

Dolphins 6-10

AFC West:

Chargers 11-5

Raiders 8-8

Chiefs 4-12

Broncos 1-15

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Texans

3. Patriots

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

NFC Predictions 10/4

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:
Packers 13-3

Lions 12-4  (Wildcard)
Bears 9-7
Vikings 3-13

NFC South:

Saints 14-2

Falcons 11-5 (Wildcard)
Bucs 11-5

Panthers 4-12

NFC East:

Cowboys 10-6 

Eagles 10-6

Giants 10-6

Redskins 8-8

NFC West:

Rams 6-10

49ers 6-10
Cardinals 6-10
Seahawks 5-11

Playoff Seeds

1. Saints

2. Packers

3. Cowboys

4. Rams

5. Lions

6. Falcons

Big 10 Week 2 Picks

Well I finally managed to pick an NCAA game correctly, and on top of nailing the feature, I went undefeated in Big 10 picks last week. Ohio State continues to perform!!!

Here are my week 2 picks, winners in bold. And the Big 10 Grid is here

Minnesota vs Purdue

Illinois vs Indiana

Iowa vs Penn State

Michigan vs Northwestern

Ohio State vs Nebraska

Michigan State and Wisconsin both have off this week

Bold Prediction 10/2/11

Alex Green out of Hawaii will be the Packers leading rusher in 2012.

NCAA Game of the Week

Nebraska vs Wisconsin

This is the game that finishes off the Big 10 opening weekend. These are my favorites to meet in the Big 10 Championship. The analysts have been saying for weeks that no one will know who these teams are until they hit their Big 10 schedule, and now it is time.

These teams are both smash mouth offenses anchored in the running game with athletically gifted QBs who can stretch the field with their arms and keep defenses guessing with their running ability. ABC and ESPN could not have picked a finer game to give to the people.

 They are a better balanced team and with the Camp Randall crowd supporting them, may prove to be too much for a strong Nebraska team. The Badgers are nearly unbeatable at home, and even better under the lights. Look for the noise and atmosphere to make a difference here.

With defenses that have looked suspect at times while playing weaker teams, this game has the potential to either be a 14-10 slugfest or a 45-37 thriller. Either way, I think Wisconsin comes out on top and can start looking forward to seeing Nebraska again in Indianapolis in December for the Big 10 Championship.

Wisconsin 35 - Nebraska 21

Ricks NFL Week 4 Picks

Winning Teams in bold.

I have been eliminated from my Eliminator pools because of the Bills, so let me know in the comments if I should continue to provide an Eliminator Pick each week.

Bills vs Bengals

Panthers vs Bears

Titans vs Browns

Lions vs Cowboys

Vikings vs Chiefs

Redskins vs Rams

Saints vs Jaguars

49ers vs Eagles

Steelers vs Texans

Falcons vs Seahawks

Giants vs Cardinals

Broncos vs Packers

Patriots vs Raiders

Dolphins vs Chargers

Jets vs Ravens

Colts vs Bucs

Big 10 Week 1 Picks

My preseason Big 10 Predictions have held pretty well through the first 4 weeks of the season. You can check out my preseason predictions here and I don't see any changes that need to be made yet.

My preseason Big 10 grid is here and my picks will stick with that grid for week 1. Winners in bold

Penn State vs Indiana

Minnesota vs Michigan

Northwestern vs Illinois

Michigan State vs Ohio State

Nebraska vs Wisconsin

Bonus Pick: Notre Dame vs Purdue

Iowa has an off week.

Beast or Breakable 3

In this weekly feature, I will take a look at some of the upsets against my picks. Teams will be discussed and classified as either "beast" meaning they have a shot at continuing their strong play, or "breakable" meaning that they got lucky.

Buffalo Bills - Beast

I have featured them in this segment before, but they are continuing to show just how talented they are. With a tremendous upset over the Patriots, (one that knocked me out of almost every eliminator pool I was in) the Bills showed that they can hang with the best teams in the NFL and capitalize on mistakes to win games. I now have the Bills at 8-8 for the year and if they can overcome some of their division rivals, they could easily be a surprise playoff team.

Tampa Bay Bucs - Beast

The Bucs know the teams in the NFC South well enough to win in close games. If Atlanta is not going to be a real contender this year and drop all of their close games, the team that stands to gain the most is the Bucs. Although the Panthers and Saints can outperform Tampa Bay on offense, Tampa's young and talented defense can keep them just close enough to win in the 4th quarter. The Bucs can win enough of their own games, so if Atlanta continues to falter, look for Tampa Bay to take control of their own destiny and maybe squeeze into the playoffs.

Tennesee Titans - Breakable

I had the Titans here last week after their upset win over the Ravens, and they will be here every time they win a game they shouldn't. The Titans looked really bad against one of the worst teams in the league and probably won't look any better once they get into the meat of their schedule. Chris Johnson continues to pay for his greed during the offseason and probably won't look like his old self until mid-season. This is not a good team and if they manage to win anywhere near 8 games I would be surprised.

NFC Records Prediction 9/27

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:

Packers 13-3

Lions 12-4  (Wildcard)

Bears 9-7

Vikings 3-13

NFC South:

Saints 14-2

Falcons 11-5 (Wildcard)
Bucs 11-5

Panthers 4-12

NFC East:

Eagles 11-5

Cowboys 10-6 

Giants 10-6

Redskins 7-9

NFC West:

Rams 7-9

Cardinals 6-10

Seahawks 5-11

49ers 5-11

Playoff Seeds

1. Saints

2. Packers

3. Eagles

4. Rams

5. Lions

6. Falcons

AFC Records Projection 9/27

Playoff teams in bold. Full grid here

AFC North:

Steelers 14-2

Ravens 13-3 (Wildcard)

Browns 6-10

Bengals 2-14

AFC South:

Texans 12-4

Colts 8-8

Titans 5-11

Jaguars 2-14

AFC East:

Patriots 12-4

Jets 11-5 (Wildcard)

Dolphins 6-10

Bills 8-8

AFC West:

Chargers 11-5

Raiders 8-8

Chiefs 4-12

Broncos 1-15

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Texans

3. Patriots

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

USC vs Arizona State Recap

Well I missed another NCAA prediction. With how crazy all of these games have been, if you have at least watched each of my picks, you have been treated to one of the best selections of games so far this year.

USC kept themselves in this game until a defensive meltdown in the 3rd and 4th quarters. The Pick-6 from Arizona State with 6 minutes on the clock sealed the deal.

With a successful return from a sprained ankle, RB Cameron Marshall gave the Sun Devils the well rounded attack they will need to continue competing in a tough Pac-12.

There is one positive for USC here. They no longer have to worry about the media firestorm that would be created if they finished the season undefeated. An undefeated USC, ineligible for postseason play, would have been a disaster for college football.

NCAA Game of the Week

USC vs Arizona State

Although USC is ineligible for everything that matters this year, playing with less top tier players than they are used to, and having been discarded by the media, they are 3-0. Now that they have cracked the top 25 and will be in the meat of their PAC-12 schedule, expect a win over Arizona State to launch them into the headlines.

But this win is anything but guaranteed. Arizona state has looked great at times this year and has the potential to finish in the top 3 of a tough PAC-12. The Sun Devils are hosting as a 2.5 point favorite and have the skill players to hang a significant amount of points on USC.

The game should be close into the 4th quarter, but I have a feeling USC will pull away toward the end of the game. A superior offense will eventually wear down Arizona State's underrated defense.

This is a late start game. 915 Central time kickoff means that this game should run past midnight. It is available on ESPN 3 and is a great one to watch if you have a chance to see some PAC-12 action.

28-14 USC over Arizona State

Buckeyes/Hurricanes Recap

I have never been so happy to be wrong. The Buckeyes looked terrible in Miami, failing to complete even 5 passes in the game. They showed absolutely no ability to move the ball and floundered in a game against an opponent they needed to beat.

Ohio State might start to pull it together once they hit their Big 10 Schedule, but with a Freshman taking over at Quarterback this week, maybe the Buckeyes are ready to throw in the towel.

I don't expect much more out of Miami because of how hard their schedule is in the ACC, but this is an exciting team to watch and I intend to catch as many of their games as possible for the rest of the year.

Beast or Breakable 2

In this weekly feature, I will take a look at some of the upsets against my picks. Teams will be discussed and classified as either "beast" meaning they have a shot at continuing their strong play, or "breakable" meaning that they got lucky.


New Orleans Saints - Beast

The Saints came out and showed that their defense can hold well enough to beat anyone but the best of offenses. With a schedule lacking in monster offenses, the Saints can make a run with their high powered offense.
Look for the Saints to score 24+ points a week and blow out a few teams on their schedule.


Tennessee Titans - Breakable

The Titans came out and blew away the Ravens who were not ready for a passing attack of such a high caliber. Chris Johnson continues to look like the underachiever he will be this season, and Ringer, although he looked good in this game, will not be able to shoulder the entire load.
The Titans do not have many more wins that are within their grasp for this season.


Pittsburgh Steelers - Beast

After a horrendous Week 1 against Baltimore, the Steelers and Big Ben showed the league that they are still the team to beat in the AFC North with a complete shutdown of Seattle. Granted, the Seahawks are terrible and suffer from a lack of performers in both the rushing and passing attacks, but the Steelers beat them soundly.
Look for Pittsburgh to cruise through the rest of their schedule without much trouble and win the AFC North.

NFC Records Projections 9/20

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:

Packers 13-3

Lions 12-4  (Wildcard)

Bears 9-7

Vikings 3-13

NFC South:

Saints 14-2

Falcons 12-4 (Wildcard)
Bucs 10-6

Panthers 4-12

NFC East:

Eagles 11-5

Cowboys 10-6 

Giants 10-6

Redskins 7-9

NFC West:

Rams 7-9

Cardinals 6-10

Seahawks 5-11

49ers 4-12

Playoff Seeds

1. Saints

2. Packers

3. Eagles

4. Rams

5. Falcons

6. Lions

AFC Record Projections 9/20

Playoff teams in bold. Full grid here

AFC North:

Steelers 14-2

Ravens 13-3 (Wildcard)

Browns 5-11

Bengals 3-13

AFC South:

Texans 12-4

Colts 8-8

Titans 4-12

Jaguars 2-14

AFC East:

Patriots 13-3

Jets 12-4 (Wildcard)

Dolphins 7-9

Bills 7-9

AFC West:

Chargers 11-5

Raiders 7-9

Chiefs 4-12

Broncos 2-14

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Patriots

3. Texans

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

Rick's Week 3 Picks

Last Week (11-5) This Season (21-12)

Patriots vs Bills (Eliminator Pick)

49ers vs Bengals

Dolphins vs Browns

Broncos vs Titans

Lions vs Vikings

Texans vs Saints

Giants vs Eagles

Jaguars vs Panthers

Chiefs vs Chargers

Jets vs Raiders

Ravens vs Rams

Falcons vs Bucs

Packers vs Bears

Cardinals vs Seahawks

Steelers vs Colts

Redskins vs Cowboys

NCAA Game Pick of the Week

I took last week off to rethink my approach after Georgia was slaughtered by Boise State. Hopefully my pick this week will be just as much fun to watch, but without the crushing loss to the team I declare will be the winner.

Ohio State vs Miami 7:30 PM ET ESPN

This game has tremendous potential to be an exciting game. It is in the primetime slot on ESPN, so fireworks are to be expected. The Hurricanes are actually 2.5-3.5 point favorites depending on who you ask, which essentially amounts to the home field advantage.

These teams are both loaded with potential, but also are saddled with the weight of major controversies and NCAA investigations pending. The matchups on the field are offset by the players who are missing. With the return of Jacory Harris and Ohio States' struggles with lesser teams, Miami is in prime position to take the Buckeyes out of National Title contention.

However, I do not see this happening. As much as I would love to see Ohio State crippled before they reach their Big 10 schedule, they are the better, more balanced team and should win this game. It will not be a statement win, (Miami is unranked) but doesn't need to be at this point in the season. Putting another game in the win column is all that matters. Miami may play with a desperation you would expect from a program teetering on the edge of extinction, but in the end they will be outscored.

The one factor that my prediction does not take into account is the weather. The forecast calls for about a 50/50 shot at a serious rain storm. If this game is in a downpour, all bets are off as Miami is much better prepared to play a sloppy game on offense and defense. The rain would upset the careful balance that the Buckeyes need to win this game.

My pick is Ohio State in anything but a monsoon.

Ohio State over Miami 34-28

Alternate Monsoon score: Miami over OSU 30-21

NBA Season

It is beginning to look more and more as though there will be no NBA season, or at the very least a delayed start. If there is news in the next few weeks, expect an NBA fantasy preview for the 2011 Trophy League before the beginning of the season.

Rick's Week 2 Picks

Last Week's Record (10-7) Season (10-7)


Winning Team in Bold
I have also added my Eliminator Pick


Chiefs vs Lions

Raiders vs Bills

Bucs vs Vikings

Bears vs Saints

Ravens vs Titans

Browns vs Colts

Jaguars vs Jets (Eliminator Pick)

Seahawks vs Steelers

Cardinals vs Redskins

Packers vs Panthers

Cowboys vs 49ers

Chargers vs Patriots

Texans vs Dolphins

Bengals vs Broncos

Eagles vs Falcons

Rams vs Giants

AFC Record Predictions 9/13

Playoff teams in bold. Full grid here

AFC North:

Steelers 14-2

Ravens 14-2 (Wildcard)

Browns 4-12

Bengals 3-13

AFC South:

Texans 12-4

Colts 9-7

Titans 3-13

Jaguars 2-14

AFC East:

Patriots 13-3

Jets 12-4 (Wildcard)

Dolphins 7-9

Bills 6-10

AFC West:

Chargers 10-6

Raiders 8-8

Chiefs 5-11

Broncos 2-14

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Patriots

3. Texans

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

NFC Records and Predictions 9/13

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:

Packers 13-3

Lions 10-6

Bears 9-7

Vikings 3-13

NFC South:

Saints 13-3

Falcons 11-5 (Wildcard)
Bucs 11-5

Panthers 4-12

NFC East:

Eagles 12-4

Cowboys 11-5 (Wildcard)

Giants 9-7

Redskins 6-10

NFC West:

Cardinals 7-9

Rams 7-9

Seahawks 5-11

49ers 4-12

Playoff Seeds

1. Packers

2. Saints

3. Eagles

4. Cardinals

5. Falcons

6. Cowboys

Beast or Breakable

In this weekly feature, I will take a look at some of the upsets against my picks. Teams will be discussed and classified as either "beast" meaning they have a shot at continuing their strong play, or "breakable" meaning that they got lucky.

Chicago Bears - Beast

Although the falcons played unusually badly, this stemmed from mismatches that the Bears should be able to replicate against other teams.

A fantastic outing from the defense was the highlight here, and if this unit is healthy, there is no reason to think that they wont be able to stop some of the league's best teams. We will know a lot more after they play the saints next week, but I expect my Bears projections to have them winning a few more games.

Buffalo Bills - Beast

Turnovers certainly helped the Bills, but QB Ryan Fitzpatrick showed that he could make plays and finish off drives. 208 yards passing and 4TDs shows that he can play both in the redzone and while driving.

The Chiefs played badly, but looked decent enough on defense to beat a young team like the Bills. I think Buffalo is for real, but a tough schedule will make any real success difficult to capture. The offensive stars should have fantastic fantasy years, and the Bills won't be blown out like they were last year, but I do not believe that they will be able to gain any victories from better play.

Washington Redskins - Breakable

Rex Grossman came out and played like the version of himself that made the Bears throw away their shot at a Super Bowl. It will not last. The Redskins played fantastically against the Giants and showed that they have players on the team that can become great. A coaching staff that has what it takes to win, paired with talented players should be able to string together some victories, but without a quarterback who shows consistency, I believe they will fall short in close games.

The rest of the teams on the schedule will not be as injured or come out as sluggish as the Giants did. Although the Redskins won this game for themselves and have a relatively easy schedule, I do not think they will win many more games than I have projected.

Packers/Saints record predictions

Updating for Yesterday's game, I think the Packers now win 12 games and The saints also win 12, losing the NFC South to the Falcons, but capturing the 1st Wildcard.

Once we see how well the Colts play Sunday, I will update my projections for them.

A full prediction grid and new standings and playoff predictions will come Tuesday.

Updates for tomorrow

Projection updates for Saints, Packers, Colts, and the teams they play coming tomorrow.

Also a piece on Mark Ingram

Saints/Packers

Great game by both sides. The wounds are still too fresh to talk about the Packers, but I will say that they played a great game. I have nothing hateful or negative to say.

Except about Woodson. I have enjoyed his play in the past and thought of him as a good player. I hope he finds himself fined and suspended for his actions.

As far as the saints go, there was a lot of room for improvement.

P-Rob can not cover a #1 receiver.

I love Ingram as much as anyone, but you can not put the game in a rookie's hands when you have so many weapons available.

Defensively, weak play for the first half gradually gave way to a decent game toward the end. Getting Will Smith back in 2 weeks will do wonders for the defense.

In the end, it was the Colston fumble, the botched 4th and 1, and that final goal line decision that were the major points for me.

Overall the team looked good enough to play with the best in the NFC. I look forward to seeing the packers again in the NFC championship game.

What a crazy week of NCAA Football. I missed on my Georgia/Boise prediction. I will continue to predict one game every week and cover others as needed.

With the start of the NFL season thursday, I hope to release my first power rankings tomorrow.

Boise v UGA

Edit:
So I missed on this one.

Kellen Moore looked fantastic. Boise has added a great win to their resume and has a great shot at going undefeated.

Along with LSU's colossal win against Oregon, Georgia's loss may show that they do not have what it takes to win in the SEC this year. The Conference is just too deep for them to play below potential.

My prediction: Georgia wins. It is not close.

Boise will not be able to compete against a real school. Georgia's defense will simply out play the Bronco offense.

On a semi related note: the all white pro combat uniforms for Boise and the Red/Black bulldog uniforms are fantastic.

UGA 44 Boise 28

Preseason Big 10 Projections

Leaders
Wisconsin (8-0)
Ohio State (5-3)
Penn (5-3)
Purdue (4-4)
Illinois (3-5)
Indiana (1-7)


Legends
Nebraska (7-1)
Michigan St (6-2)
Michigan (4-4)
Iowa (3-5)
Minnesota (2-6)
Northwestern (0-8)

Big 10 Championship
Wisconsin over Nebraska

Fantasy Football 2011

The main league for this year is here, this is the 2nd year but there are many new teams.

Whenever "The League" is discussed, this is what we mean.

We hold an auction draft.

Rick's Preseason Playoff Projections

NFC Playoff Seeds

1. Saints

2. Eagles

3. Packers

4. Cardinals

5. Bucs

6. Falcons

Falcons @ Packers

Bucs @ Cardinals

Bucs @ Saints

Packers @ Eagles

NFC Championship

Packers @ Saints

AFC Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Patriots

3. Texans

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

Jets @ Texans

Ravens @ Chargers

Jets @ Steelers

Ravens @ Patriots

AFC Championship

Jets @ Patriots

Superbowl

Saints @ Patriots

Preseason AFC Record Projections/Playoff Teams

Playoff teams in bold

AFC North:

Steelers 14-2

Ravens 14-2 (Wildcard)

Browns 4-12

Bengals 3-13

AFC South:

Texans 12-4

Colts 10-6

Titans 3-13

Jaguars 2-14

AFC East:

Patriots 13-3

Jets 12-4 (Wildcard)

Dolphins 7-9

Bills 4-12

AFC West:

Chargers 10-6

Raiders 8-8

Chiefs 6-10

Broncos 2-14

Playoff Seeds

1. Steelers

2. Patriots

3. Texans

4. Chargers

5. Ravens

6. Jets

Rick's Preseason NFC Record Projections/Playoff Teams

Playoff teams in bold. Full Grid Here

NFC North:

Packers 11-5

Lions 10-6

Bears 6-10

Vikings 4-12

NFC South:

Saints 14-2

Bucs 13-3 (Wildcard)

Falcons 12-4 (Wildcard)

Panthers 2-14

NFC East:

Eagles 12-4

Cowboys 11-5

Giants 10-6

Redskins 4-12

NFC West:

Cardinals 7-9

Rams 7-9

Seahawks 5-11

49ers 4-12

Playoff Seeds

1. Saints

2. Eagles

3. Packers

4. Cardinals

5. Bucs

6. Falcons

Rick's Week One Picks

Winning Team in Bold

Saints @ Packers

Falcons @ Bears

Bengals @ Browns

Bills @ Chiefs

Eagles @ Rams

Lions @ Bucs

Titans @ Jaguars

Steelers @ Ravens

Colts @ Texans

Giants @ Redskins

Vikings @ Chargers

Seahawks @ 49ers

Panthers @ Cardinals

Cowboys @ Jets

Patriots @ Dolphins

Raiders @ Broncos

New Posts and a Podcast

I am going to try to get more content published as well as begin a weekly podcast.

More info as soon as I have it

Power Rankings from myself ans some contributors hopefully in a few days.

First Mock Draft of 2011 Fantasy Football Season

It is that time again and these are the results of my 1st mock auction draft of the year.

Standard 10 team ESPN league. $200 for auction

Aaron Rodgers $46

I overpaid for Rodgers but his consistency should make him one of the top two quarterbacks this year. (Vick $48, Brees $33, Manning $30)

Stephen Jackson $32

When I picked up Jackson, all of the top tier guys were already gone. I overspent a little bit because I had to get a consistent RB before it was too late.

Matt Forte $24

Great Value here with what was left on the board. Forte should have a better year than his 2010 campaign because Cutler can't be any worse.

Jonathan Stewart $23

Stewart could be a major steal at this price if he can manage a strong season despite his team. Either way, I am now set at running back.

Desean Jackson $20

With Vick Throwing him the ball he could crack the top ten

Antonio Gates $20

Most of the big receivers were gone. Gates is on the same level as those guys.

Mike Williams TB $16

Probably overpaid, Colston was still available. He should have an even better 2011 than his 2010

Steelers D/ST $4

Overpaid. I am ashamed.

(Packers D/ST $3)

Josh Brown K $1

Brandon Jacobs $1

someone will sign him and he will vulture TDs

Malcolm Floyd $2

Might end up a patriot

Lance Moore $1

Tim Tebow $2

Simply for the Bye week

Roy Helu $2

Robert Meachem $1

Kevin Kolb $1

I couldn't believe he was still on the board

I am overall happy with my team. Although I overspent on some players, the end result should have a decent chance at a championship.

I hope to do a mock with the rules that we will be using for the money league this year in the next few days.

Here are the full draft results for anyone interested:

Team Wilczynski
QB Eli Manning 9
RB Maurice Jones-Drew 48
RB Michael Turner 34
RB/WR Darren McFadden 28
WR Marques Colston 18
WR Mario Manningham 11
TE Vernon Davis 8
D/ST Saints D/ST 1
K Billy Cundiff 1
BE Ahmad Bradshaw 15
BE Cedric Benson 10
BE Fred Jackson 13
BE Jay Cutler 1
BE Julio Jones 1
BE Thomas Jones 1
BE Chad Ochocinco 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Team Lanway
QB Drew Brees 33
RB Frank Gore 37
RB Ryan Mathews 16
RB/WR Jahvid Best 17
WR Roddy White 42
WR A.J. Green 1
TE Jason Witten 11
D/ST Chargers D/ST 1
K Matt Prater 1
BE Tom Brady 25
BE Josh Freeman 11
BE Mike Williams 1
BE Montario Hardesty 1
BE Derrick Mason 1
BE Donovan McNabb 1
BE Tony Gonzalez 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Team Weaver
QB Aaron Rodgers 46
RB Steven Jackson 32
RB Matt Forte 24
RB/WR Jonathan Stewart 23
WR DeSean Jackson 20
WR Mike Williams 16
TE Antonio Gates 20
D/ST Steelers D/ST 4
K Josh Brown 1
BE Brandon Jacobs 1
BE Malcom Floyd 2
BE Lance Moore 1
BE Tim Tebow 2
BE Roy Helu 2
BE Robert Meachem 1
BE Kevin Kolb 1
Total: 196
Remaining: 4

Team Olson
QB Matthew Stafford 1
RB Jamaal Charles 53
RB Ryan Williams 6
RB/WR Larry Fitzgerald 27
WR Andre Johnson 42
WR Mike Wallace 26
TE Dallas Clark 16
D/ST Eagles D/ST 1
K David Akers 1
BE Dwayne Bowe 19
BE Marcedes Lewis 2
BE Ryan Torain 2
BE Beanie Wells 1
BE Deion Branch 1
BE Mark Sanchez 1
BE Rob Gronkowski 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Team Combs
QB Philip Rivers 23
RB Ray Rice 51
RB Knowshon Moreno 20
RB/WR Dez Bryant 22
WR Miles Austin 22
WR Vincent Jackson 24
TE Owen Daniels 5
D/ST Packers D/ST 3
K Garrett Hartley 1
BE DeAngelo Williams 20
BE Zach Miller 4
BE Danny Amendola 1
BE Sam Bradford 1
BE LaDainian Tomlinson 1
BE Mike Goodson 1
BE James Jones 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Team Ruemmele
QB Michael Vick 48
RB LeSean McCoy 47
RB Chris Johnson 52
RB/WR Joseph Addai 3
WR Greg Jennings 37
WR Santana Moss 3
TE Brandon Pettigrew 1
D/ST Bears D/ST 1
K Nick Folk 1
BE Mike Tolbert 1
BE Terrell Owens 1
BE Jerome Simpson 1
BE Hines Ward 1
BE Vince Young 1
BE Danny Woodhead 1
BE Rashad Jennings 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Team huddleston
QB Peyton Manning 30
RB Adrian Peterson 61
RB Rashard Mendenhall 42
RB/WR Mike Thomas 4
WR Hakeem Nicks 29
WR Reggie Wayne 20
TE Jimmy Graham 1
D/ST Patriots D/ST 1
K Mason Crosby 1
BE Matt Cassel 4
BE Steve Smith 2
BE C.J. Spiller 1
BE Leonard Hankerson 1
BE David Garrard 1
BE Jason Campbell 1
BE Davone Bess 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Team Montgomery
QB Tony Romo 15
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis 15
RB Felix Jones 12
RB/WR Wes Welker 13
WR Santonio Holmes 15
WR Steve Johnson 14
TE Chris Cooley 1
D/ST Jets D/ST 2
K Rob Bironas 1
BE Ben Roethlisberger 10
BE Kenny Britt 11
BE Matt Ryan 9
BE Mark Ingram 8
BE Sidney Rice 7
BE Daniel Thomas 7
BE James Starks 8
Total: 148
Remaining: 52

Team Mock
QB Joe Flacco 7
RB LeGarrette Blount 15
RB Shonn Greene 11
RB/WR Austin Collie 11
WR Jeremy Maclin 16
WR Brandon Lloyd 14
TE Kellen Winslow 3
D/ST Ravens D/ST 1
K Stephen Gostkowski 1
BE Michael Crabtree 10
BE Anquan Boldin 6
BE Marshawn Lynch 7
BE Pierre Thomas 6
BE Jordy Nelson 6
BE Mikel Leshoure 6
BE Johnny Knox 7
Total: 127
Remaining: 73

Team helm
QB Matt Schaub 15
RB Arian Foster 59
RB Peyton Hillis 29
RB/WR Brandon Marshall 13
WR Calvin Johnson 30
WR Randy Moss 5
TE Jermichael Finley 12
D/ST Falcons D/ST 1
K Nate Kaeding 2
BE Percy Harvin 13
BE Ryan Grant 10
BE Neil Rackers 2
BE Pierre Garcon 5
BE Braylon Edwards 2
BE Michael Bush 1
BE Ronnie Brown 1
Total: 200
Remaining: 0

Thoughts on Hanley Ramirez

Before the baseball season began this year, I drafted Hanley in my Auction League and made him the top paid Shortstop in the game.

While he has not returned his value as of yet, his performance over the last few games gives me hope for him returning to his average numbers.

Granted, I am watching the Marlins and Dodgers as I write this and Hanley is 0-2, but his swing looks good and he seems to be getting his timing back.

Edit: So going 0-5 doesn't really help my argument, but Hanley looks more confident at the plate than previously.

Thoughts on Cardinals/Dodgers from last night

I had the opportunity to watch almost all of the Cards/Dodgers game last night and was quite content with the time spent. Pujols finally hit in a game I was watching, a welcome sight for this fantasy manager. Kuroda looked off, wild pitches and a lack of control destroying an otherwise decent start. Holliday looks 100% and should be on his way to a great season.

I like blowout games like this because you get a chance to see the young players from each team. I was especially impressed by Fernando Salas, who despite giving up a couple hits and a walk showed decent control and settled as the inning went on.

These teams both look on track and hopefully the Cards can keep up the hitting in the weeks to come.