Super Bowl Wrap Up

So I know I’m definitely behind on my reaction the Super Bowl, but in my defense, I’m a fan in grieving. Before I go into depth, I’d like to make it clear: It’s always good to be a Steelers fan. Always. Especially when they win, but you know what? Even when they lose too.

I wish we had a Super Bowl do-over. Before you knew it, we were in the hole against a great team (like most of our playoff games.) While I never gave up hope that we’d be ok and that Ben could pull out another two-minute drill for the ages, time expired and it just didn’t happen this time. Simply put–we played poorly. Yes, Ben threw costly picks but he also was having trouble hitting people when they were wide open. As much talent as Mike Wallace has–he proved he’s not a big time receiver yet ( paging Santonio.)  What’s perhaps the most telling for me,–the defense was mute. With the exception of Lamar Woodley in the first half, you didn’t hear a peep from Harrison, Farrior, Clark or Polamalu. As we all know, you put yourself in a difficult position to win any game if you cough up the  ball three times which results in 21 points.

What’s encouraging is that, despite the above–we still had a good chance to win the game. Seriously. It came down to the last drive. A drive that Ben makes nine out of ten times. A drive that legends are made of. He’s done it before, there’s no reason he shouldn’t have been able to do it again. It just wasn’t in the cards this time. Playing from behind–which the Steelers did the entire game–never allowed Ben or the offense to settle down and take control  the way they wanted. The Packers did what they had to do to win the game-which is nothing spectacular–they took care of the ball and didn’t make any stupid plays (they DID allow 25 points though).  In this situation they deserved to win the game.

All of that being said, I couldn’t be prouder of the Steelers, a team which most people, outside of fans, had written off this year with Ben out the first four games. We listened to how people predicted the Ravens and Bengals (REALLY?) as their AFC North pick. After the Steelers went (an unsurprising) 3-1 without Ben, we still listened to how we weren’t a good team–even with the number one defense in the league. We were supposed to lose to the Ravens and the Jets at home. We weren’t supposed to make a game out of it down 11 points at half time. We just couldn’t pull it out in the end and while I’m not happy about it, I’m ok with it.

I’ll tell you what though. There’s still no other QB I’d rather take than Ben Roethlisberger. For all of his mistakes and poor play, he STILL had us in a position to win that game (I say if it was Holmes and not Wallace we’d have our seventh ring). He doesn’t panic, he doesn’t freak out and he shoulders the appropriate amount of the blame for the loss. I do not expect perfection from Ben (and everyone reading this would say–DUH). I’m optimistic about how our offensive line played–for all the hoopla surrounding the loss of Maurkice Pouncey–Legursky stepped in fine and the offensive line played GREAT only allowing one sack (in which Ben didn’t actually end up on the turf). I’ll take an O-line that plays like that ANY day.

More importantly, I’m proud of the way the Steelers acted as a team this year. Always banding together, rising to the challenge and silencing their critics. While I’m sad, I have NO doubt that we will be back to the Super Bowl (and soon!) and that Pittsburgh will get a seventh ring in the near future. It’s been a fun season and it’s just further proof why it’s always good to be a Pittsburgh fan. Chins up Steelers, your town and your fans love you and we can’t wait for the next journey to begin in September.

Super Bowl 45: A Preview

As I write this post, I am sitting at O’Hare International Airport awaiting my flight to Pittsburgh for the big game. So yes, up front, I’m taking the Steelers to win tomorrow (and feel that I’m remaining as unbiased as possible in that selection). I’ve taken the past two weeks off this sports blog for two reasons: 1)  to try to wrap my head around what is sure to be a legendary Super Bowl and 2) I’ve also started another pr blog with some friends of mine which has required a little more attention (Ok shameless self promotion complete.) Let’s let’s get right down to it:

Steelers 24-20 over the Green Bay Packers.

I’m going to go with Pittsburgh for a few reasons. The first being that this team has experience and has worked together through adversity at various times throughout the year. They scraped together a 3-1 record in their first four wins, had an amazing comeback against the Ravens twice and scooted their way to a 12-4 record. And true, it wasn’t always pretty. The defense has, much like any other year, been the glue that has held the Steelers together–headed by AP Defensive Player of the Year Troy Polamalu. But with a defense like this, you don’t need your offense scoring 30 points a game.

I think that the Steelers will benefit from their multiple offensive weapons–Mendenhall (who has developed into a work-horse for team), Wallace (who is the fastest receiver in the NFL), Ward and Miller (who make huge plays in the clutch–if not as often as they used to) are the usual suspects, but the Steelers have done a great job of incorporating rookies Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders into the mix. These two additions to the offense have proven that they can make the big plays when necessary in play-off games and give Ben two more weapons to utilize on offense–it’s impossible to cover EVERYBODY that Ben may be able to get the ball off to. That is, if he decides to hand the ball off at all. Ben has become an increasingly mobile quarterback (a necessity since our O-line is depleted) and has no problem scrambling for first downs.

And yes, Green Bay is a good team. Aaron Rodgers is a good QB, Clay Matthews is a beast, Tramon Williams is clutch and Jordy Nelson has been on fire lately. In my opinion, the Steelers have a player that matches toe for toe with every one of them (Roethlisberger, Polamalu, Clark and Miller) not to mention Harrison, Woodley, and Wallace. Yes, I worry about our pass protection and our secondary–and Aaron Rodgers has an ungodly amount of 20+ yard completions this post-season. I mean really it’s ridiculous. And yes, I’m slightly uncomfortable about the state of our offensive line–especially with the loss of key center Maurkice Pouncey. But I’m not scared of the Packers in the slightest. I think they are an absolutely beatable team. They beat up on NFC fools and let’s not forget that they couldn’t exactly close out the NFC Championship against a third string QB in Chicago. The ONLY difference in that game was an understandable pick six by an unexpecting BJ Raji to preserve the lead. The Packers struggled against a Bears defense that is similar to Pittsburgh–except that Pittsburgh’s is better. Yes, I expect them to get burned once by the long-ball but I also expect defensive genius Dick Lebeau to be able to adjust.

Roethlisberger has Super Bowl experience and is a proven leader for his team (if you want my personal take on him in general, check out a great read on 15 Minutes Blog that features a variety of blogger opinions on the subject) and is unlikely to choke–in fact, I expect this to be his best Super Bowl performance to date (and God help us if it’s worse than his first Super Bowl performance.) I don’t think Aaron Rodgers will choke either–but expect nerves to get to him the first quarter before he settles down.

Let’s not forget either that everyone is picking the sexy pick of the Packers, which undoubtedly adds fuel to the fire. No one ever gives Pittsburgh its due–and we wouldn’t want it any other way. Of the 45 analysts at ESPN, 32 picked the Packers to win tomorrow. Lil Wayne puts out ‘Green and Yellow’ a song aimed squarely at Pittsburgh and the Packers are favored by 2.5 in Vegas.  See the Steelers have that extra drive to play for now–much like they did in ’09 and ’06 and they’re going to be fired up beyond belief wanting to prove the haters wrong–haven’t people learned yet that its Ben who is proven himself time and time again in the clutch–NOT Aaron?  Personally, I’d never bet on the Steelers to lose a game, being a fan aside, more often than not, they manage to find a way to get it done (in the final two minutes to give you a heart attack). Again, I don’t think this is a blow out by any means on either side–both teams can win the game and the victor will need to put together a damn near perfect ball-game to do so. But I give the Steelers the edge because I think their defense will allow for at least seven points off turnovers and that will be the difference in the game.

Who do you have tomorrow—and why??

It’s gonna be fun to watch (except for the Black Eyed Peas at halftime) so everybody enjoy the game and, of course, HERE WE GO STEELERS!! ❤



Sports Digest 1.17.2011

A little over two weeks into the new year and I am in sports glory–play-off football is great, college basketball is in full swing, the NHL is chugging along and the Australian open is underway. The Steelers are in their 4th AFC Championship game in the past 7 years, Chicago is electric with the NFC Championship game and a huge Blackhawks game this weekend,  Being on this sports cloud-nine–why not dish up our first sports digest of the year?

Syracuse Orange vs. Pitt Panthers

Everyone knows this is going to be a good game. Tonight, you have the unbeaten #3 ranked Orange against perennial Big East powerhouse #5 Pitt. As much as I love the Orange, and as good as they are looking (#1 seed come tourney time) they always struggle against the Panthers, losing the last four meetings. I don’t think that this is going to change tonight–I think that Syracuse has a mental block against Pitt..they just don’t bring their A-game until it’s too late. Add in the loss of lead scorer Kris Joseph for the game tonight and I think it spells extra trouble. Hope I’m wrong and we pull off the W  (as Pitt is the only team from the ‘Burgh that I actively root against, and just can’t stand) but the odds aren’t looking good. That’s alright though, we’ll rebound to beat Villanova on Saturday at the Dome with in front of a record crowd.

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Philadelphia Flyers

Right before the NFL Championship game the NHL’s national game of the week is a rematch of the Stanley Cup last year. The Flyers have had a pretty dominant season and currently hold the #1 power ranking. The Hawks have had a lethargic start to the season but are finally finding their mojo. With a tough game Saturday vs. the Red Wings, look for the Hawks to turn the tide on a national stage and upend the Flyers on home ice.

The Demise of the Patriots

There are few things I enjoy more than watching the Patriots get outplayed. And that’s exactly what happened yesterday. After a shaky first quarter, Mark Sanchez settled down and maintained the tempo of the game and the Jets just, for lack of a better term, laid the smackdown on the Patriots. They got lazy in the fourth quarter and started playing too conservatively, and showed no modicum of class during their on-field celebrations but they got the job done. And I’m pretty sure I saw Tom Brady cry during the game, which just added to my joy. Hard to believe, as Adam Schefter put it, that Tom Brady has now lost three consecutive play-off games. Looking back, it all started going “south” when they lost the Super Bowl in the last seconds to the Giants–(or has it been since his knee injury?) Will Tom ever get another ring? Hard to say, but none of it diminishes that he (in my opinion) is the best QB to play the game..as much as I HATE to admit it. So we’ll have to wait another eight months (or longer) to discuss his Bieber haircut.

The Steelers NOT beating themselves

I’m STILL pumped about that Steelers win on Saturday. The team showed so much resolve coming back to dominate the second half–allowing the Ravens a TOTAL of 28 yards throughout the end of the game. Yes, they had their heads up their asses in the first half, and they won’t be able to play like that again and expect to move on but the determination of the steel curtain defense, as well as some AWESOME play by my boy Big Ben solidified the W. You can say what you want, but Ben Roethlisberger is a top 3 QB in the league (in my opinion two) He has the same number of playoff wins as Peyton Manning (9) with six years less experience. He plays hard, he scrambles, he takes control of the offense, he’s tough and he delivers. As long as there’s time on the clock, if the ball is in Ben’s hands, I honestly think we have a shot to win. Off-field drama aside, I don’t know that there’s another QB I’d take if I could have my pick–Brady gets frazzled–doesn’t seem like Ben does. He’s a great leader and he makes things happen. I like our chances on Sunday.

Are you on as much as a sports high as we have been this week? What’s been the highlight for you?

Let’s us know … we’re always up for a chat 🙂

D-D-Divisonal Showdown

Unfortunately, it’s that time of year where football is drawing to a close 😦 The college season in the books (although I wish it was Oregon hoisting the trophy) and we did much better than with our BCS bowl picks this year than last–going 4-3…it’s a baby step, but it’s a step! 🙂

Wild Card Weekend was great to CDS–we went 3-1 (all except for that Seahawks snafu). This weekend–the NFL is serving up four delicious divisional match-ups that should be excellent for everyone watching. So without further delay–here’s our picks for this weekend.

Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Gotta go with the Steelers on this one (DUH!) Not only because I bleed black and gold–but because I really think the Steelers are the better team. It’s not that the Ravens are push-overs…this will be a dog fight for sure, but I see Pittsburgh coming out on top for a few reasons. The first being that since 1970, the Steelers are 8-0 in the playoffs against divisional opponents. These teams are incredibly familiar with each other and both will be prepared but the Steelers have a proven history of getting the job done among these circumstances–the previous two times the teams have met in the playoffs, the Steelers notched the W.

The Steelers have proven to be the tortoise in the AFC North this year–after a string of some UGLY games–they have been on a roll to close out the season. Yes, their final two games were against the Panthers and Browns–but the Steelers easily put together their two most comprehensive games. Add in the fact that of the past 7 regular season meetings, the Steelers have the edge 5-2. Those two Baltimore victories? They were against starting QBs Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch. The Ravens have struggled to find an answer for Ben the past three seasons–and know it.

Another reason? Flacco is garbage. Ok, that may be a little harsh, but he is not anywhere near an elite qb status. While he is getting smarter with his play, he still makes many mistakes and the Steeler D will show no mercy. And don’t even get me started on Troy Polamalu–who is a main reason why we won the last game in Baltimore–his ability to be anywhere and everywhere is the difference maker. Now sure, all streaks come to an end and Baltimore may be due-but I think the Steelers, coming off a bye week have the edge. One thing’s for sure, this physical game is definitely going to take a toll on whoever advances enough to the AFC Championship–and probably enough to keep the victor from the Super Bowl. 

Steeeeel Curtain

Green Bay Packers vs. Atlanta Falcons

Oooooh-weeee is this going to be a GOOD game. I’m going with my gut and taking the Packers (they ARE my NFC SB pick!) even though my head says to give the edge to the Falcons. The Packers effectively shut down the Eagles last week–and though the defense tired in the fourth quarter–they put together a solid 60 minutes of football. This is Aaron Rodgers’ time to shine and he has accepted the challenge in leading his time–first to the playoffs, then in a wild card match-up–beautifully. Clay Matthews is an absolute beat–for all intense and purposes the Polamalu of the NFC and will be hard for the Falcons to get passed.

Ryan has himself has matured into a great little franchise QB in Atlanta and Michael Turner is a force to be reckoned with. I’m not by any means knocking on the Falcons–they’ve had a GREAT season and are completely deserving of their number one seed. But the Packers are on a hot-streak and are the most dangerous team in the NFC, which will lead them to victory at the Georgia Dome on Saturday night.

Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears

I’m taking the Seahawks–and no I’m not jumping on a bandwagon. Having lived in Chi-town for almost two years now (and loving every second!) I am surrounding by the Chicago culture–and I have watched my fair share of Bears games this season. I don’t think the Seahawks are going to win because they’re dominate–hell they’re not even a .500 team–I think they’re going to win because Da Bears just aren’t that great of a football team.

They really aren’t. The biggest scorer on their team is Robbie Gould (yea PSU!). Jay Cutler is spotty–when he’s good he’s good but when he’s bad?…well….he’s AWFUL. The Bears defense also isn’t great–having coughed up 34 points vs the Jets in week 16. Seattle just beat the defending champions–a team that is MUCH better than the Bears–I think they’ll be ready for the challenge and will shock the world by making it to the NFC Championship (much to my chagrin as I am not a Pete Carroll fan).

The Bears do have two things on their side: the weather (it’s FREEZING here) and Devin Hester–and I do hope, in this case, that I’m wrong and they manage to win–but I just don’t think it’s going to happen.

New York Jets vs. New England Patriots

Ok, we get it….these teams hate each other. *yawn* When did this turn into a rivalry for the ages? For some reason I always thought the Dolphins and Jets were the biggest rivals in the AFC East? But I digress…this media circus back and forth is ridiculously unnecessary–and I find it fascinating that it’s started by the Jets everytime…you know..the same Jets that the Patriots bent over their knees and SPANKED during a nationally televised game in December. Yes, Tom Brady is an ass (and a douche, really) but you can’t deny he’s the best quarterback in the game (and if you want my honest–and grudging–opinion, the best to ever play the game).  The Pats are the Pats…what else can you say? They’re a great, great ball club.

So I’m taking the Jets. Why? Well, they’re my Super Bowl pick..and I CAN’T bail on them now. Yes, Mark Sanchez is struggling GREATLY, but this is a team that, when they focus, can put together 60 solid minutes of football. The problem is they get distracted by any and everything–bright lights, loud noises and cute cheerleaders to boot. The thing about the Jets is even though they aren’t that great–and yes totally overrated from what we all thought they’d be–they always manage to find a way to win..and that’s something you can’t completely count out. They also did beat the Patriots in week 2–so I know they have it in them and even though it’s unlikely..I’m still taking them. They’re my pick and I ride or die with them until they’re out.

David and Goliath

What are your predictions for this weekend? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

In honor of the Steeler game on Saturday we’ve included our new favorite pre-game pump up song: Wiz Khalifa’s Black and Yellow.

–Sam

New Year’s Hangover 2011 Edition

Happy 2011 Everyone!

I’m not exactly sure when New Year’s Day morphed into the ultimate sporting day. Yes, there have always been bowl games–but in recent years the better bowl games have slid through until the middle of the month and other sports have staked their claim in the day. Whenever this transfiguration happened, I know that there was nothing I enjoyed more yesterday than having some sauerkraut and pork, Bloody Marys and watching 12 solid hours of sports.

Outback Bowl–Penn State vs. Florida

Oy vey Penn State. Oy Vey. What looked like a promising game–leading 17-14 at half time– turned into a train wreck right in front of our eyes. McGloin’s five interceptions marked the second lowest point of the PSU football season this year (only the loss to Illinois at homecoming ranks worse). What kills me about my favorite walk-on from Scranton is that he just is not a smart ball player. I counted no less than three times that the lane was clear and he could have rushed two or three yards for a first down–instead, he scrambles and tries a short pass to a receiver who isn’t looking–and gets picked off…FIVE times. Defenses can read him like a book. That being said, I do firmly believe he’s the best option Penn State has and I support JoePa’s decision to keep him in. There’s something a quarterback (should) learn when they get drummed like that and hopefully he can take this loss and use it to become a better QB for what is sure to be an ugly Penn State football season next year.

TCU vs. Wisconsin-Rose Bowl

Easily the best game of the day–TCU cemented their spot as an elite program in college football. Having knocked off Boise State last year, and a super-strong Wisconsin team this year. In my opinion, the final score of 21-19 does not accurately represent the complete and solid 60 minutes of football that TCU put together yesterday and I’m excited to see them dominate the Big East in 2012.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Washington Capitals

Is there anything better than the winter classic? The NHL has done an awesome job of thinking outside the box and branding a marquee game to excite fans and make the sport relevant half-way through the season. Heinz field looked awesome and even though the weather didn’t cooperate, and the Pens ended up losing, the game delivered on the hype and was really enjoyable to watch. I could complain about the refs, or the fact that Ovechkin is the biggest douche bag I’ve seen in a long time–but where is the fun in that? The winter classic isn’t so much about the game as it is the experience and I’m not worried for one second about the state of the Pens this years.

Syracuse vs. Notre Dame

The Syracuse Orange rolled to a 15-0 start this season–which sets up nicely for the January 17th showdown at Pitt. Kris Joseph and Rick Jackson are playing phenomenally and the team is deserving of their #5 ranking with quality wins against two top 20 teams (Michigan State and Notre Dame) and I’m excited to see where the season takes them. Hopefully Fab Melo will live nurse his achilles and live up to all the hype– I’m not quiiite ready to jump on the National Championship train–but man are they looking good 🙂

What was your favorite sporting event yesterday–any surprises on how the games went? Learn anything new? We’ll make sure to keep our BCS Bowl Fever tally up to date–but are running considerably far ahead of last year’s record.

Once again, Happy New Year!

–Sam

BCS Bowl Fever!!

Happy Holidays Everyone!! 🙂 I hope everyone has a great holiday season and a happy new year. For me, there really isn’t a better time of year for sports–the NFL playoff puzzle is in full swing, college basketball has begun, bowl games are right around the corner, Sidney Crosby is dominating the NHL and I manage to catch a few Bulls games or two.

In the excitement of this time of year, we’ve included our second annual BCS Bowl Fever post–in which we lock in our choices for all the BCS (and one PSU) games.  Laur and I are in different time zones right now and prepping for the holiday season, so let’s hope Santa delivers her bowl picks before January 1st!

Outback Bowl-Florida vs. Penn State-January 1st- (1pm-ABC)

Shocker! I’m going to take the Nittany Lions on this one–well, because I have to. Factor in that it’s going to be Urban Meyer’s last game (or so he says) and the speculation of it possibly being JoePa’s last game (Gruden as a replacement? I LOVE this rumor!) and I give the edge to the Lions. McGloin has turned into a pretty decent quarterback (as long as those “moxie” sayings are NOT in the mix), Royster had a great second half of the season and the defense is fairly reliable. I think if the team knows this is JoePa’s last game then, for sure they can rally and put together 60 minutes of solid football to knock off the gators.

Joe Pa ❤

Cotton Bowl – Alabama vs. Michigan State-January 1st (1pm ESPN)

Gotta go with ‘Bama on this one. As much as I have formed a disdain for this team–(the “McElroy hasn’t lost since middle school stat was by far the most irritating of the year) ‘Bama is no push over. Couple that with the fact that Michigan State just isn’t that good of a team. They really aren’t–they stood out in a depleted Big Ten this year, but chalked up a loss to Iowa and didn’t have to play perrenial powerhouse Ohio State. I expect them to easily be overtaken by the former National Champ ‘Bama on this one.

Rose Bowl —TCU vs. Wisconsin–January 1st (5pm, ESPN)

I love that the BCS put TCU in this game–unlike the schlubbing from last year in which the BCS put two Cinderella darlings against each other–this is TCU’s chance to prove their worth on the second biggest stage of the bowl season. Wisconsin won’t go down without a fight–an impressive win at Ohio State and an eeked out victory over Iowa works in their favor leading their steady march to a Big Ten Championship. This should prove to be an exciting game and I think that TCU will excel on the big stage and notch a W which will prep them nicely for a transfer to The Big East in 2012.

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl — UConn vs. Oklahoma— January 1st (8:30pm-ESPN)

I’m taking Oklahoma in what is the most lopsided BCS match-up of the year. Enough said.

Discover Orange Bowl –Stanford vs. Virginia Tech — January 3rd (8pm ESPN)

This should be a good match-up, but I’m going to have to take Stanford. Virginia Tech put together a nice little season after a really rough start to the year (JMU anyone?) but I think the PAC-10 offensive style of play will lead the charge here. Add in that Stanford is more than likely ridiculously salty about not being invited to the Rose Bowl and you have all the necessary ingredients for a Hokie beatdown.

Allstate Sugar Bowl –Ohio State vs. Arkansas–January 4 (8:30pm ESPN)

This is going to be a GOOD game–but I’m giving the edge to Arkansas. Ryan Mallet has been a great leader for the team and has matured into a solid quarterback since leaving an ineffective for his talents offense in Ann Arbor. Ohio State is no stranger to nationally televised bowl games–but has a history of choking. Both offenses can be explosive–so it’s all going to come down to defense but I think the Razorbacks are going to scratch out a win–the perfect way to end an almost storybook like season for the Arkansas program.

Tostitos BCS Championship Game–Oregon vs. Auburn–January 10th (8:30pm ESPN)

Before the analysis, I just want to say how thrilled I am that the usual suspect (Florida, Bama, OSU) are NOT a part of this game. I’m a huge fan of  BCS shake-ups..and while both of these teams have undoubtedly earned the right to play for the national championship I don’t think anyone would have placed these two in the title game back in September.

That being said..I’m REALLY looking forward to this game 🙂  This is going to be a shoot out folks, the game features 2 of the top 7 offenses in college football. Auburn has undoubtedly, had the more impressive road to its national championship appearance and Hesiman winner Cam Newton has had a ridiculously impressive season.. but I think the Duck’s 15th ranked scoring defense will be the deciding factor in this one. Look for an exciting game with the Ducks quacking their way to a BCS title.

Offensive Powerhouses

What are your predictions for the above games? You know we love a healthy debate here on Chicks Dig Sports…Let’s hear it! 🙂

Happy Holidays!

–Sam

Playoffs! Divisional Series Show Down!

Ok ok, by now, you know we absolutely ADORE fall. Other than a plethora of football games to choose from every Sunday and the beginning of the NHL season–we also get the best and most exciting baseball series’ of the year! There’s NOTHING like October baseball. The importance of every game is tangible and sometimes it gets lost in the every day shuffle of a 162 game season. While I occasionally get distracted from baseball by other fun summer activities (just ask @ihatejjredick…I’m not sure the last time I even perused the action in our fantasy league), my eyes are glued to baseball in October. While not unexpected, neither Chicago team is in the hunt for a championship this year…shocker. So true to Chicks Dig Sports fashion–here’s our last minute-quick and dirty picks for the divisional series.

Cincinnati Reds vs. Philadelphia Phillies

While it should be crystal clear that I’m absolutely NO fan of anything Philadelphia, (not even its  cheese steak), the Phillies are the one thing from  that city that doesn’t irk every fiber of my being. Maybe it’s because I went to too many games at the Vet growing up, but dare I say, the Phillies are actually likeable. The killer rotation of Halladay, Oswalt and Hamels  is frightening to opposing teams. Add in the playoff experience of this team-Utley, Werth, Rollins and they should be set up for a nice divisional series. The Cincinnati Reds, who are making their first playoff appearance in 15 years and have showed a spark all season, won’t be doormats. But experience will lead the Phillies to victory. (Prediction-Phillies in 3)

Atlanta Braves vs. San Francisco Giants

Much like the Phillies, the Giants have a killer pitching rotation. However, different from the Phillies, I don’t think they’re going to win their divisional series. Why you ask? Well, Atlanta has a lot more to play for-since its legend Bobby Cox’s final tour in the Major Leagues–this motivation should give them the edge over the Giants. Let’s not forget either that the Braves led the majors with 25 victories in its final at bat–separate from the team’s 45 comeback victories. It truly isn’t over ’til it’s over with this team and I think, although the Giants will put up a valiant effort) they’re primed to move to the NLCS. (Prediction: Braves in 5)

Texas Rangers  vs. Tampa Bay Rays

I like the Rays in this one. Entering the post season for the third consecutive year (twice as AL East Champions) the Rays are HUNGRY for a World Series title. The little team that could–that has to give away tickets to home games, no less–shows no signs of letting up until they win the big prize. They’ve cooled off a little since jumping out to a 34-18 record over the first two month of play–albeit SLIGHTLY. The Rangers, who are making their first playoff appearance in 11 years have some great talent–but in their three previous playoff runs, they’ve exited in the ALDS–this year should prove no different. (Prediction: Rays in 4)

Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees

The New York Yankees begin their title defense the same way last year’s run to a championship began, with a  division series rematch against the Minnesota Twins.  Both teams are coming off of abysmal September’s and although the Twins have home field advantage and the Yankees have lost in the divisional series the previous three times they entered as a wild card, I think the Yanks have the edge due to C.C. Sabbathia. Who, if necessary, will be ready for a game 5. Sabbathia is one of the most dominant pitchers in the game and has beaten the Twins the last six times he’s faced them. This will tip the scales to the Yankees favor. (prediction: Yankees in 4)

Are you ready for some playoff baseball? Who you got in the various divisional series?

Talk to us people 🙂

Sam

Icing the Pens

As many of you know–Chicks Dig Sports Too pledged to take the Chicago Sports Challenge : where we immerse ourselves in Chicago sports culture. We have an unexpected post courtesy of Durkins–my neighborhood Steelers bar. After winning a raffle on Friday night, my high-school buddy Jess and I were whisked away (via party limo, no less)  to the Blackhawks game–and they just so happened to be playing my Pittsburgh Penguins (Crosby, Fleury and the whole gang  :-))

High School Buddies 🙂

This was my first time at the United Center for a sporting event. It’s true–there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Sitting in the 300’s, we had an excellent view of all the action on the ice (yes, even those two goals scored by MaryANN…gag me). It was also my first sporting event while I was in Chicago as a faithful member of the opposing team. I really had no idea what I was in store for.

Getting there right before the start of the game–I really enjoyed the pump-up video to get the fans going. Strangely enough, nothing screams hockey like the Pirates of the Caribbean theme song and a killer light show. Paired with the “tunnel-vision” camera of the Hawks walking to the ice and everyone was raring to go. One thing I don’t get–that I was glad to experience as its specific to Blackhawk culture–is the yelling, screaming and making noise during the national anthem. I just don’t understand it and find it fairly disrespectful-to the country and the singer–who actually was quite good. I know that incorporating fun things in the anthem is all the rage these days (“O!” for Syracuse, “Hail” for Michigan etc.) but I think just making noise is kind of weird. That being said–it definitely continues to pump everyone up for the game at hand–there’s absolutely NO LULL in excitement and support from the fans, from the moment you walk into the United Center to the moment you leave–and I can dig that.

Hawks Pre-Game

  I was impressed by the Chicago fans for a few reasons: the arena was packed by face/0ff. Even for a pre-season game, the support of the fans was tangible–with fans genuinely enthralled and paying attention to the game. Additionally, I thought–overall–the fans were pretty classy. Never toeing the line of acceptable obnoxious sports behavior–and as we all know the tendency gets greater when you are CRUSHING the opposition–  I was met with a variety of awesome comments–“We’ll see you in the Stanley Cup” being the one most popular.  Also, we were allowed the ability to cheer–often loudly–for our team, with little to no friction from home team fans. This is hard to find in the sporting world today (I’m looking at you, Philadelphia) so I appreciate the positive atmosphere.

311 Heaven

One thing I did notice, “The Song”, yes that one is NOT as much fun when it’s being played against your team (over and over). However, it was really cool to be in the UC and experience the goal celebration ritual that I’ve come so accustomed to through television.

Goal Celebration

One thing that I was disappointed in was the mass exodus of Blackhawks fans with 4:41 left in the third period. Yes, you were killing us 4-1, and yes, it’s a pre-season game. And yes you’re always going to have people everywhere  that miss the whole point of sports–that saving an extra 20 minutes in the parking lot is worth abandoning your team–but the mass exodus of people leaving was alarming. When MaryAnn put the nail even further in the coffin by scoring his second goal of the night-no one was there to cheer. That would have NEVER happened in Pittsburgh–in fact, it would have been over their dead body–even if they were losing by five.  And last night, when we were getting slaughtered, we stayed till the game was over and cheered like CRAZY when we finally got on the board, because you don’t leave your team behind–win or lose. Just an observation we Yinzers noticed last night–but I’m completely willing to give the fans another shot before passing final judgement. One thing’s for sure–the fans awareness of the game and enthusiasm for it drowns out Cubs fans–hands down. And let’s get serious–if they were playing anyone OTHER than the Pens, I would have been in my glory.

The game ended and we strolled back to our party limo (singing the Pittsburgh Polka, natch) and returned back to the comfy nook of Lincoln Park. While it’s always fun to go to sporting events, this experience was elevated to a different level of awesome as it was completely unexpected–and a great ending to a long week!

We are going to the White Sox game tonight–so look for a recap tomorrow 🙂

Was anyone else at the game last night? What is your favorite Blackhawks ritual? and, most importantly, HOW THE HELL CAN YOU ALL OPENLY EMBRACE MARYANN HOSSA??? 😉

Talk to us people,

Sam

Blah Blah Blah NFL Negotiations Blah

The owners and NFLPA meet today for the first time in what seems like forever to help stave off a potential lockout/strike for the 2011 season. With teams giving the go-ahead for the union to decertify left and right, we’re getting a little (read: A LOT) concerned about the state of the 2011 NFL season. Yes, on one hand it’s incredibly infuriating that you have millionaire crying about being treated unfairly (players), while you have billionaires who are too stubborn to lose a fraction of their income (owners).  It can seem to be a bit much to keep track of, so Laura and I are here to provide the quick and dirty guide on a few of the hot-button topics between the owner and the NFLPA.

18 Game Schedule

Laura: Hmmm, an 18 game schedule. I am not sure this is a subject I SHOULD have an opinion on. After all, I am a lowly PR professional and have never had the determination, strength or ability to compete at a high level in sports. I only like to watch it on TV and generally prefer that someone else entertain me with insane grabs in the end zone (Devin Hester, you are ridiculous!) , beautiful spirals and the crunch of great tackle when helmet meets pads. I work hard at my job daily and sometimes stress or longer hours makes me eat a little less healthy or feel worn out. But I don’t put my longevity and health on the line weekly for the entertainment of others.

I don’t want to hear it’s what they get paid for. I know that, I went to college. I am just pointing out, it’s not really for me to have an opinion on whether or not they should put their big, strong bodies against other insanely strong and big bodies for more games that count during the season. The risks here are high. What I will do is point out a few pros and cons if the 18 games will be passed (and it’s looking more likely every day.)

Pros

–          Everyone will make more money (players, owners, merchandisers, television stations etc).

–          The football season (that matters) will be longer, I love that, it’s too short already.

–          Fans will love it–two more weeks of tailgating, drinking and screaming on Sunday? Sold.

 Cons

–          No matter how you slice it, the athletes’ careers will be shorter

–          Preseason serves a purpose–one of my favorite players of all time is Tom Waddle, he would have never seen a start in a Bears uniform if it weren’t for his preseason performance. There are countless other examples that verify this claim–see: Sam’s Dennis Dixon.

–          Playoffs may prove to be less exciting as two more games every season are undeniably going to wear these guys out.

–          There could be  more tragedy in the game. An increased schedule increasing the chances of injury.  

Rookie Salary Cap

Sam: Unlike Laura, I do have an opinion and, if you know me a loud one 🙂 I’m siding with the NFLPA on this one. There absolutely, 100% SHOULD be a rookie salary cap. How many times have we seen a rookie sign a ridiculous contract for a crazy amount of money and get hurt in the beginning of the season because of the heightened level of play? Matt Stafford, Kellen Winslow Jr. and my boy Paul Posluzny come to mind.

Or worse yet, how about when a player is signed and just plain SUCKS in the NFL? Akilli Smith? David Carr? Carson Palmer (yes he SUCKS), JAMARCUS RUSSELL or Ki-Jana Carter? These 22-year-old kids enter the NFL and are set financially for life before they take their first snap on the field. What’s worse, is that if their proposed contract isn’t at a tacky and gaudy level-well, then they hold out and refuse to sign. Before they step foot on the field. See, I’m in this camp that you have to PROVE your worth before you get a diva attitude and I agree with the NFLPA that the money that, more often than not, is WASTED on rookie talent would serve a better purpose to veteran players that have already proved their worth and have sacrificed their bodies for the game.

Perecentage of Revenue to Players

Currently, players receive 59% of owner revenue for salary purposes–a percentage which the owners want to decrease citing increased costs. Which, let’s get serious, is a bullshit claim. Even with the recession, the owners are making an ISH load of money…the average NFL team is valued at 1.2 billion dollars–down from 1.4 billion last year. While that drop is alarming, it doesn’t justify screwing the players to a lower percentage of revenue. They are the money makers, they are the ones that sacrifice their bodies (albeit for a ridiculous amount of money). I do not watch football to see Jerry Jones or Al Davis (although they think I do), I watch it for the ATHLETES. The amount of money that it costs a FAN (’cause that’s who it’s really all about..right? ;)) to go see a game is ABSURD, and I do not believe it’s because the players take 59% of revenue. I believe it’s ’cause the owners are greedy and mark the hell up out of their product. It’s simple, we all do, that’s good business, but what’s bad business is to be a cheap skate and screw your employees and make them disgruntled.  Need more proof? see Clark Griswold’s reaction below to finding out that his Christmas bonus is to be enrolled in a Jelly Of The Month Club 😉

OOOOH we KNOW you have opinions.

Lay ’em on us!

–Laura and Sam

Sports Digest 9.15.2010

Fall is in full swing, as the weather in Chicago reminds us every morning. With football back, MLB races heating up and another U.S. Open in the books, Chicks Dig Sports Too is over-due for a sports digest.

NFL

New York Jets-I’m sticking with my pick of the Jets going to the Super Bowl. Did they play horribly on Monday night? YES. Their sloppy play resulted in one converted third-down the entire night, Cromartie had more dumb penalties than he has children and don’t even get me started on Keller’s fourth down play which was one of the biggest bone-head plays I’ve ever seen. A pathetic offensive performance, yes, however the Jets defense DID hold the Ravens to 10 points (albeit, the Raven’s offense was pretty horrendous.) With DT Jenkins out, it will be an uphill battle for the Jets but ‘m not flip-flopping- it’s just week one. Team’s should be playing their worst ball, and the bright side is, the Jets offense can’t get much worse. Maybe Sanchez had the jitters, maybe he’s an awful quarterback, time will tell, but I’m not ready to bail yet. Am I concerned? Sure but not ready to call a fire drill just yet.

Perhaps exchanging recipes after the game??

Pittsburgh Steelers-The Steelers fought hard for that win on Sunday and they deserved it. Dixon performed fine, which is exactly how he needed to-controlling the ball and having as few turnovers as possible. With an inexperienced QB (and a  usually solid kicker that inexplicably froze TWICE in his home stadium) the rest of the team, especially the steel-curtain defense, stepped up to secure the win…and don’t even get me started on Hines Ward’s layout catch in the second quarter. With the win over the Falcons, the Steelers are already better than worse-case scenario of going 0-4 without Ben, which is huge. Hopefully they can scrape together another win against the Titans on Sunday.

Mendenhall Rushes for the Game-Winning TD

Washington Redskins-I love when games come down to one play–under the lights on a Sunday night is about as primetime as you can get. For what it’s worth, Dallas QB Tony Romo did a great job of leading his team down the field and was an inch away from stealing the game at FedEx field (another bonehead play to end the game). But I was impressed with Washington. Shanahan appears to have whipped this team into shape. McNabb is playing well and they seemed way more prepared than I gave them credit for. In a far departure from the previous 15 years of my life, I actually am warming up to the idea (read: would relish every second of) McNabb winning a Super Bowl WITHOUT Philly. It would be just desserts to a city that treated him like garbage for a majority of his time there…hmm. I like the thought of it 😀

Philadelphia Eagles-Ugh. A quarterback “controversy” in week 1? Philly I am so over how easily your love can be bought. In my opinion, there should have never been a “controversy” to begin with–Vick’s your guy.

MLB

The Twins are on FIRE which is unfortunate for the White Sox who have been playing their best ball all season. A  crushing 9-3 loss last night may have delivered the final blow to the team. As a Cubs fan, I’m not sure what’s worse–being 20 games back in July and continuing down a spiral of misery through October, or having a glimpse of hope towards the end of the season and having it extinguished. But I will tell you one thing–it’s rough to be a freaking Chicago sports fan.

Ian Kinsler of the Texas Rangers is appealing his one game suspension with the MLB. I’m torn on this one–however, being ejected means you cannot be a part of on-field activities and  Kinsler’s boyhood excitement for a walk-off home-run, which is undeniably charming, can’t be claimed as a reason for not abiding by the rules. With the Rangers magic number down to 10 with 18 games to play, I think he should just serve it and move on while they have some wiggle room to lose a game or two. I would hate for this to get tied up and have him serve it at a later time when they need him in the game (i.e. magic number is two with three games to play.)

U.S. Open

Another U.S. Open is in the books and I couldn’t be happier about comeback kid Kim Clijsters and perennial powerhouse Rafael Nadal winning the Slam in singles.  For Clijsters, a former number 1 who retired due to injuries in 2007, it was her second-straight U.S. Open win, making her the first woman to achieve this feat since Venus Williams did it in 2000-2001.

Clijsters Wins U.S. Open

In typical fashion, Rafael Nadal was dominant in his  performance in Flushing-dropping only one set in seven matches at the Open. At 24 years old, this win gives Rafa a career grand slam, as well as a “golden slam”-all four grand slam titles and a gold medal. (Sidenote: at 24, my biggest slam accomplishment is housing the free Denny’s Grand Slam on my birthday…but I digress :-)) Rafael Nadal is poised to pass Federer as the best tennis player of all time (given their head-to-head record, he already has in my opinion), and I, for one, couldn’t be happier for him.

What are your thoughts ont his crazy week in sports? Are the Jets really that bad? Are the ‘Skins that good? Should Kinsler appeal his one game suspension? How much of the Open did you watch?

Talk to us people…from traffic numbers (which have been INSANE the past few weeks..thank you! :-D) we know you’re lurking…we’d love to hear from you!

–Sam