2004: Iceman's Year in Review

In addition to the various personal milestones (i.e. graduating from law school, moving to New York City, passing the NY State Bar Exam), 2004 will always go down as one of the most memorable years in my lifetime. Focusing solely on the year in sports, 2004 began in appropriate fashion - attendance at the January 1 Capital One Bowl game in Orlando, Florida to see the Purdue Boilermakers lose an overtime thriller to the Georgia Bulldogs, 34-27 (Statboy witnessed the event as well). That game set the tone for what would be an amazing, eventful, yet unfortunately also memorably troublesome year in the world of sports.

As with every year in review, I think it is most appropriate to begin with a brief mention of those we lost in 2004. Though there are too many to possibly give full attention, some of the most notable include: Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch, Marge Schott, Ken Caminiti, and Reggie White. All put their individual mark on their respective games in various forms. Most notable, however, was Pat Tillman. Having passed up on a multi-million dollar contract to continue his career with the Arizona Cardinals of the NFL, Tillman chose to serve his country in Afghanistan / Iraq. Unfortunately, Tillman became yet another casualty of the much-maligned "War in Iraq", touching the lives of sports fans everywhere.

In an effort to keep my Top Ten Moments of 2004 unbiased, I feel it necessary to first make mention of a few events that I personally attended, not including them in the annual list. Here they are, in order of importance:

4. Tennis US Open - I was proud to sit in the stands after years of playing tennis and watching this event on television. Lower level seats for the highlight of the tournament, a match-up between a rejuvenated Andre Agassi and the dominant Roger Federer, would not disappoint. In addition, sitting front row for the women's doubles quarterfinal featuring Dimentieva / Sugiyama showed me just how good high-level doubles play can be.

3. Jimmy V Classic - Floor seats at Madison Square Garden is every true sports fan's dream. Luckily, I made my way to Ticketmaster as early as possible to take advantage of my living in the Big Apple and having access to "the mecca" of all sports arenas. The event included 4 ranked teams (though the action itself was quite boring), a halftime tribute to the late Jim Valvano, and being able to see John Saunders nod off during the 2nd half of the opening session - it was THAT boring, folks.

2. NCAA Tournament (Columbus, OH) - Continuing a tradition of following my beloved Kentucky Wildcats whenever possible, I embarked on the 5-hour journey to Ohio to watch the Cats take on two teams it was supposed to defeat. As the overall #1 of the 4 #1 seeds in the 2004 NCAA tourney, the senior-laden UK team handled Florida A&M as I sat 15 rows up at midcourt. Purchasing tickets through the smaller school's alumni association the night the brackets are announced proved to be the best way to earn top seats at cheap rates (Old Man and I did this the year prior through IUPUI to see the Cats dismantle the Jaguars). Unfortunately, it would jinx the Cats, as my midcourt tickets purchased through UAB resulted in my watching the Cats suffer a 76-75 defeat to the Blazers in what was arguably one of the biggest upsets in tournament history. I sat stunned for 25 minutes after Gerald Fitch's last shot rimmed out and onto the floor.

1. G2 Internet Launch - On February 9, 2004, we launched the online version of the G2. After two years of hard copy form, it was time to allow technology to play a role in our development. As Editor-in-Chief, I can vouch for the hard work and dedication displayed by Statboy and Maverick (and the late emergence of Old Man), hoping that we provide you with some entertainment and insight into the sports / gaming world. Thanks to all for sharing in our hobby.

And now, here are the Iceman's Top Ten of 2004. Please note that there are obviously many more events and moments that could have easily made this list, but after much analysis, certain things have to be left on the cutting room floor . . .

10. Smarty Jones captivating the entire nation as yet another Triple Crown hopeful, after nearly dying the year before, only to give up a 4 furlong lead in the final stretch to place 2nd.

9. Lance Armstrong (and his LiveStrong bracelets) winning yet another Tour de France, reminding us all yet again how possible it is to overcome cancer, regain strength, and pursue a dream.

8. The much-maligned National Hockey League disappearing from American sports, as a nation sits back and supports the dissolution of the predominantly Canadian league which ironically produced the Tampa Bay Lightning as perhaps its final champion.

7. The Athens Summer Olympics, which gave us the disaster known as the USA Men's Basketball team receiving a bronze medal, the gold medal controversy involving Paul Hamm, the amazing undefeated and entirely dominant run by the Women's Softball team, and the seemingly never-ending story of Michael Phelps and his quest for 8 gold medals.

6. Steroids giving our nation's past-time a black eye, as Jason Giambi and Barry Bonds are implicated in BALCO's federal indictment.

5. Pete Rose, aka "Charlie Hustle," finally admits to betting on baseball after years of denial, though everyone knew he was as innocent as OJ Simpson.

4. The "Basketbrawl" between the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons becoming the most talked about fight in sports history, levying unprecedented suspensions and fueling Ron Artest's wildfire of insanity.

3. The rape trial of L.A. Lakers star Kobe Bryant, proving to all that he is not the golden child of the NBA that he was proclaimed by most to be (and its subsequent demise of the Lakers - sending Shaquille O'Neal to the Miami Heat and Phil Jackson to the heat of Miami's beaches).

2. Janet Jackson's controversial breast-baring halftime performance involving the "wardrobe malfunction" that became known as "Nipplegate" . . . which would impact the entire nation and future of radio / television / FCC regulations.



1. The Boston Red Sox finally ending the curse of the Bambino, surviving the Yankees even when they were 3 outs from elimination in the ALCS, en route to winning the 2004 Baseball World Series.

As if you didn't know what number one would be. On behalf of the G2, have a happy new year, everyone! May 2005 be a year for all of us to be happy, make new friendships, share memories that will last a lifetime, and take advantage of the many wonderful opportunities that our mighty country has to offer.

Peace,
Iceman

"Old Man's Grumblings"

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Happy Horizon New Year's Eve Eve Picks

The Old Man has been laying low as of late, resting up for the festivities on Friday night, as he prepares to down at least a 6 pack of Asti champagna bottles. How do you prepare for such a venture when you have lost a step so to speak when it comes to downing the booze? Actually, it's fairly easy, I just call up some clients of mine, and drink Mad Dog, boxed wine, Colt 45, Natty Ice, Wild Turkey, and all other fine wines. Then, when it comes time for some good stuff, it will flow like the urine from a Drunken Irishman urinating outside of Broad Ripple Tavern. Now, on to my picks for the day for what is arguably the worst conference in Division I basketall. The Horizon League teams continue to excel in losing out of conference games.

Cleveland State is getting 32 points at Chapel Hill. That's a lot of Rashad McCants dunks. I was shocked to find out Cleveland State is only 3-4, I thought it was something like 0 for the season. Their 3 impressive wins have come against Hillsdale, Something Valley State, and Clairon (is that the Clarion Health Network's team of doctors?). I'm taking Cleveland State and the 32, as I think the Heels starters will be calling the strippers in the 2nd half from the bench for the Roy Williams New Year's Eve Bash hosted by Bill Guthridge.

UW-Milwaukee is pretty much a pick em at Manhattan. I've got to go against Iceman's hometown team and pick the Panthers, who are also struggling.

Butler is coming off of a heartbreaking 1 point loss to Richmond out in Arizona. They play Eastern Washington in the consoloation game and are -10. I'll take the Dogs, since they have covered 2 in a row.

Detroit -2.5 is hosting UIC tonight in a pivotal league matchup. Both teams are very disappointing. Detroit is coming off of an impressive road loss at Chicago State, a notoriously very tough environment to play in. I'm taking the Flames, because I'm tired of losing with Detroit.

As an added bonus, my New Year's Eve Bowl Selections are Purdue -7 and Boise State +12, even though bowls suck and are tough to predict.

World Series of Poker Champion Attacked

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LAS VEGAS -- Greg Raymer, the 2004 World Series of Poker champion, apparently knows how to wield more than a stack of chips when everything is riding on it.

The soft-spoken patent attorney from Stonington, Conn., fought off a pair of attackers Dec. 20 at the Bellagio hotel-casino after he had finished playing a cash game of poker, according to a Las Vegas police report.

Raymer was returning to his room about 2 a.m. when two men approached, the report said. As he opened the door to the room, they tried to push him in. But the heavyset Raymer resisted and began struggling with the men, the report said. As he was fighting, one of the men pulled out a gun and said: "We just want the money."

But Raymer didn't give up, and yelled for security, causing the men to flee. Police made an arrest in the case but the report didn't identify the person.

Raymer, known as the "Fossilman" in poker circles, won the WSOP Texas Hold'Em title and $5 million in cash. He beat out a field of 2,576 in May to win the prestigious event.

On a poker message board, Raymer recently wrote: "I don't write this to brag, I just want any robbery-minded people out there who hear about this to know that I'm a tough mark, and they won't get that much off me even if they succeed."

Editor's Note: I'm not sure I'd be inviting danger if I were him.

"Maverick's Mumblings"

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Colorado at UTEP (+3.5)

G2 Followers, get prepared for another mid-major beatdown of a big name, big conference, lackluster opponent. Today's menu: Buffalo. Colorado is heading down to Houston to face UTEP, a team that has to travel about 150 miles to get to this same destination. UTEP boasts better numbers in EVERY single category, and, with a (5-1) home record, this team is ready to show America that the little man packs a big punch. In a little less than two hours, take UTEP, take the points.

Oklahoma State (-3.5) against Ohio State

Not much to say about this one, except OK. State (7-4) averages, that's right, AVERAGES almost 250 yards rushing per game! Their offense relies on tailback Vernand Morency, one of the nation's leading rushers with 145 yards a game and 13 touchdowns.

On the other side of the coin, Ohio State (7-4) won four of its last five games after Troy Smith took over as quarterback. But he was suspended by the team last week for a violation of team rules and will miss Wednesday's game against Oklahoma State. That puts the offense back into the hands of Justin Zwick, who went 3-3 before hurting his shoulder and being replaced by Smith. Zwick doesn't have the game-breaking talent of Smith, who ran for 145 yards and passed for another 241 in the Buckeyes' season-ending upset of Big Ten rival Michigan. So, count on Oklahoma State (7-4) to rush hard on the corners, and to give this rusty QB fits all night long. As much as I hate to go against the Big 11, take the Cowboys.

Tsunami Touches Sports (kind of) World, Too

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Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model Petra Nemcova was injured and her photographer boyfriend is missing after the pair were caught up in the Asian tsunami disaster.

Nemcova told the New York Daily News that she survived the tsunami, which has killed at least 33,700, by clinging to a palm tree for eight hours, despite a broken pelvis and internal injuries. Rescuers found her at sunset and took her via stretcher to a local hospital. She was eventually airlifted to an inland hospital.

"I was so broken, I couldn't walk," Nemcova told the Daily News. "There were so many people with horrible injuries, with blood everywhere. It was like a war movie."

Nemcova, who appeared on the 2003 SI swimsuit cover, and her boyfriend, British photographer Simon Atlee, had been vacationing in the beach resort of Phuket, Thailand, when the waves swept over them Sunday.

A Legend is Lost

"Statboy's Star-Studded Bowl Special"

I begin this article with a tear. This is my last article of 2004. The year 2004 started in grand fashion in Orlando for Ice and myself ... "Where are the snacks?" It ends with 2 feet of snow covering us here in central Indiana. The college football season has taken us on a wild ride with the Boilers riding the craziest of rollercoasters. So, without further adieu, lets check out a few of this year's Bowl games.

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MPC BOWL: Virginia was able to crack the top 10 at one point this year and was a play away against Va Tech from going 6-2 in the all mighty ACC and grabbing the conference BCS berth. Fresno State does have the fifth best scoring offense in the nation at 40.5 points per, but Al Groh has turned Virginia (-5) into a 'program' and I look for the 3rd place team in the ACC to handle the 3rd place team from the WAC. Give the 5 points.

Holiday Bowl: Raise your hand if you think Cal is going to be a little upset after getting the boot from the BCS (my hand is way up). Remember back to the fateful October 9th afternoon in southern California. Cal had 4 plays from inside the 10 to knock off USC. On fourth down, the receiver slips or Cal is playing in the Orange Bowl for all the marbles. Instead, they are in San Diego. This game has all the makings of a shootout. Cal is fifth in the nation in offense (495 per), and sixth in scoring (37.3 per). Texas Tech is sixth in offense (482) and 11th in points (35.3). JJ Arrington will have his way on a suspect Red Raiders D, and Cal when win by at least 2 scores. Cal (-11) is the bet.

Music City Bowl: Minnesota has the best 1-2 running back punch in the country...bar NONE. (Editor's Note: Umm, Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown, anyone?) Laurence Maroney (1243 yards) and Marion Barber III (1082 yards) are special players. Minnesota has been down this path before. In 2002 and 2003, they started hot by playing patsies, faded in the Big Ten schedule, then won the Bowl game as underdogs. Look for history to repeat itself. Alabama is a 3.5 favorite, but I look for Minnesota (+3.5) to not only cover, but to win it outright. Either way, take the points and RUN...just like Minnesota will do.

Sun Bowl: If ever there was a game to put your mortgage on, this is it. It may be said that I am slightly biased here, but lets look at the facts. Arizona State is missing their star QB (Walters out with separated shoulder), ASU has been thumped by both USC and Cal (their toughest opponents), and most importantly, ASU plays in the Pac 10. Purdue was one Kyle Smith dropped INT vs Wisconsin, when Purdue led by 10, from not even concerning itself with Orton's fumble. If that happens, in my heart, I know I would be boarding a plane to LA come Sunday. It didn't and we all know what happened. HOW-EV-A, the Boilers are back and healthy and ready to put up another 40 plus point game. I could see this being a 3 TD game. Give the 7 points and take the Boilers...BIG. Purdue (-7)

Capital One Bowl: Drew Tate is maybe the best QB no one has heard of. He is the sophomore leader of the team and honestly reminds me of a guy I refer to as "Ahhhhh...Drew Brees" (pro bowler). LSU is a great team and I think they will win this game. However, I think Tate will work some magic and the 10th best defense at Iowa will hang right with the 3rd best defense from LSU. Look for a 20-17 type game, but Iowa (+7.5) will cover.

Orange Bowl - The National Championship. With all apologies to Auburn, this is the game we have all waited for all year. These 2 were 1-2 at the start, and they are 1-2 now. Each is starting a Heisman winning QB for the first time in HISTORY. Each has a running back who is arguably more valuable than the Heisman QB. This will be FUN. Each team ranks in the top 15 in total and scoring offense. Each team ranks in the top 8 in total defense, and in the top FIVE in scoring defense. Each team had about 3 tough tests this year, and each team rose to those challenges. Seriously, there is nothing here that leads an honest observer to 'guarantee' an outcome here. That is why you call for the intangibles. In my humble opinion, Pete Carroll is the slightly better in game coach, and I think Matt Leinart is a slightly better college QB (he will be a MUCH better pro QB). Then, when you add in that USC didn't get to play in this game last year even though they were rated #1, you are going to see a close game that USC (-3) does prevail in. Look for a 34-27 finish and the Men of Troy will cover the 3 point spread.

Best wishes to all in 2005 ... Statboy, OUT.

"Maverick's Mumblings" (Holiday Edition)

I'm gonna keep this short, but I'm not going to leave you without saying that you've GOT TO jump on the ICEMAN pick-wagon for his NCAA basketball picks. A record of 25-10 is sick! I've just started letting him do the thinking for me in this field, and I'm not looking back.

Now, back to what I'm good at: Some great picks for Thursday night's CFB games . . .

Wyoming (+12) v. UCLA

Take the cowboys. Sure, they're (1-4) on the road this year, but in Vegas, anything can happen. The temperature in Las Vegas is going to be a blustery 28 degrees tonight, which I'm sure the Bruins aren't very happy about. The temperature, however, is the least of their problems. UCLA is without their star linebacker (I believe his name is "Havner" ?), and after a 4-1 start, have lost 4 of their last 6. Add to this the fact that Wyoming has their only road win of the year at Sam Boyd Stadium, a riveting triple-overtime victory against Nevada-Las Vegas; a win that sealed Wyoming's first winning season since 1999. Go Cowboys!

Marshall (+2) v. Cincinnati

Sure, Gino Guidugli is back for the Bearcats. He's quite the star (24TD's, 7Int's). But, I don't think he's back to 100% after breaking his hand three weeks ago. Once more, this team is also quite shaken after their 70-7 defeat two weeks ago at the hands of C-USA champ, Louisville; and remember, they lost their confidence a long time ago after losing to ARMY! Nobody loses to ARMY!

Lastly, one stat sticks out in my mind more than any other; Marshall has won its last five Bowl games, including a 25-13 win over Cincinnati in 2000 at the Motor City Bowl.

The Herd will get this win. Take that to the bank.

Good luck tonight!

Mav, out.

Happy Holidays from the G2

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That's Wake Forest's Justin Gray giving the G2 a thumbs-up for its early season prowess in college hoops forecasting. Hopefully you have all been taking a look at the G2 Staff Picks link lately, seeing a ridiculously profitable 25-10 record for the Iceman in college hoops. At $50 per game, you're looking at a profit of $750 already, and that's considered small-time wagering. A record like 25-10 in the Vegas sportsbooks has you staying in the high roller suites at the Bellagio and quitting your day job. How long can this streak last? It's unlikely that a record like that can maintain its course, but I'll give it my best . . . Additionally, let's hear it for the Old Man who, when awake, gives it a go in what has become arguably the nation's worst conference in major D-1 hoops, the Horizon League. Just putting up a winning record at this point is a sign of genius with the lumps those teams have taken so far, losing by more points on a consistent basis than the Rim Reckers of the IUPUI intramural basketball league.

Keep checking our picks, as MAV and Statboy have begun firing away at the bowls this season, including a win for MAV last night in taking Bowling Green over Memphis. It's been a profitable time of year, folks. Don't miss out on the extra cash to be made!

Happy holidays to all, and here's to a prosperous 2005 for the G2 and all of its Followers!

Best wishes,
Iceman & the G2 Staff

Old Man Returns

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It's colder than a witch's you know what (rhymes with bitty) here in Indianapolis, which makes the Old Man tired and lazy. However, due to pressure from "the man", I feel obligated to provide you with a pick on tonight's featured game in Indiana between Butler and Ball St.

First of all, the Horizon League is a joke, thus the reason I haven't recently submitted picks for the F2. I'm on strike (although I still give my subscribers picks on the hotline, 1-900-HORIZON for those that have forgotten). Butler (-4) is my pick tonight. Ball State may be more athletic, and may be a team that has not committed any felonies in recent memory, unlike past Ball State players, but that doesn't matter. The game's at Hinkle, Butler shoots well in Hinkle, the opposition does not, take the Dogs and the points!!!

Kansas (-13) hosting UW-Milwaukee has ass whipping written all over it. The last time I took UWM as a dog, they lost by 30. Screw 'em. Take the Jayhawks to the bank!! (Editor's Note: Even without Wayne Simien? Better take another nap, Old Man)

BREAKING NEWS: Arbitrator Reduces Suspension

NEW YORK -- An Arbitrator has reduced Jermaine O'Neal's brawl suspension from 25 games to 15. Suspensions were upheld for Ron Artest and other players.

Editor's Note: We're very proud of the fact that we broke this story before ESPN.com and CNNSI.com. What can we say? We are YOUR source for sports news.

New $500 Million Stadium for the Colts

Slot machines in Indianapolis would be the key to financing a $500 million, retractable-roof stadium proposed Sunday night by the mayor and the owner of the Indianapolis Colts.

"We have a deal," said a smiling Mayor Bart Peterson as he and team owner Jim Irsay held up their arms in victory before a roaring crowd of more than 55,000 that had turned out to see the Colts take on the Baltimore Ravens.

Sunday, Peterson and Irsay briefly set aside the potential political and practical hurdles facing the plan as they stood on the dome's artificial turf to announce their plans to ensure that Indianapolis' two-decade-long status as a National Football League city continues for a second generation. The announcement before a sold-out game culminated two years of negotiations.

The proposal calls for the city to build a 63,000-seat stadium, which could expand to seat 70,000, in time for the 2008 NFL season. The team will sign a new 30-year lease.

Editor's Note: How sweet is it that the legislature is going to legalize slot machines in Indianapolis to finance a new stadium for the Colts? Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

"Statboy Speaks"

I have been locked in a deep, dark, damp hole working on my much bally-hood, heavily anticipated, "Statboy's Star-studded Bowl Preview." However, I am still putting the final touches on it, so I thought I would go ahead and give you all a hint of what is to come with a couple of 'lesser' games on slate for this week.



I doubt many of you caught the Georgia-Georgia Tech game on Thanksgiving weekend, but I saw something I never thought I would see. 1st down - incomplete. 2nd down - sack. 3rd down - spike to kill the clock. 4th down - Reggie Ball (Tech QB) rolls out and throws the ball into the 2nd row of Sanford Stadium to kill the clock and avoid the sack. (Editor's Note: Iceman watched it, and thought, "Come again"?) All this happened in the last 20 seconds of the game from the UGA 17 yard line, with Tech down 6. I am now 7 years removed from my year there, but even I was devastated by the mental lapse of the sophomore QB. Reggie can come back from that and learn from it, or go into a shell. I think he learns from it and Tech will roll the Orange.



Syracuse played in the Big Least and went 4-3. You can't belittle a team for winning the games on their schedule to get into a bowl, especially after the disaster of week 1. Losing 51-0 in West Lafayette is not the way Walter Reyes looked to kick off his Heisman campaign. However, as some of Statboy's friends will attest, I left that game and said, "Syracuse will still go 6-5 and get into a bowl." That notwithstanding, they don't have the fire power to beat a team that went 6-5 in the toughest conference in the land. That's right, I said it...the ACC was the best conference THIS YEAR. Georgia Tech (-5) is a good bet.

Also, the UAB Blazers are making their first EVER bowl appearance, so a special congrats to them for that. Not only that, they get to go to Hawaii for the game. Not a bad start...the only place worth going after that is Boise, Idaho. Anyway, I feel they will suffer the same fate as many who have ventured to the land of the Fighting Timmy Chang's. Too much time on the beach, not enough time in film study. The Warriors have the 20th best offense and the 115th best defense (out of 117). This means one thing...their games are exciting. This will be no different. Junior Darrell Hackney from UAB is a great find for a small school and he has had a great career. However, he will not be able to pull the trick that neither Northwestern or Michigan State could...winning at Hawaii. Hawaii (-3) is a safe pick. I hope the fans in Hawaii show up in force to watch Timmy Chang's last game. He may be the best player to play there in a long, long time.

Nation's Top Non-Conference Rivalry Delivers A Classic

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP): Patrick Sparks sank three free throws with less than a second left to cap his 25-point performance and complete No. 9 Kentucky's big comeback for a 60-58 win over No. 13 Louisville and Rick Pitino on Saturday.

The Wildcats (7-1) trailed 32-16 at halftime, trailed by 10 with 5:00 to play, and were down 58-57 after Larry O'Bannon hit two free throws for Louisville with 15.2 seconds to go. Kentucky coach Tubby Smith called timeout with 4.8 seconds left to set up the decisive play. Sparks inbounded the ball, then received a pass in the corner. He pump-faked, then jumped into airborne Louisville forward Ellis Myles to draw a whistle from referee J.B. Caldwell.



Sparks, a 71 percent career shooter from the line, cooly swished all three shots. O'Bannon's desperation heave from half-court wasn't close, and the Wildcats snapped a two-game losing streak to their archrivals and former coach Pitino.

Editor's Note: Most of you know how this game affects the Iceman. If anyone doubted that it was the nation's top non-conference matchup in college basketball, surely those doubts are erased after today's game. During his post-game press conference, Pitino remarked, "Other than Christian Laettner, this is as tough as it gets." Most fans of these teams are aware that Louisville treats this game as their national championship every year. Sad, but true.

"Maverick's Mumblings"

Editor's Note: Just when you thought he had officially "left the building" so to speak, I give you . . . MAV!

Well, it's 55 degrees and sunny down here in southern Indiana, which makes it hard to think of nothing other than baseball, baseball, baseball! The Hot Stove is in flames, as deals involving Randy Johnson to the dark side, Adrian Beltre to NintendoLand, and Pedro to the Amazin' Mets have gotten this "off" season back on track. Marred in past months by the scandals involving Giambi, Sheffield, and everyone's hero, Bonds, the news about these trades have once again taken critical fans off their soapboxes and back into line for season tickets. It's simply amazing how this sport can abuse you time and time again, yet we come crying back for more each time. It reminds me much of my addiction to smack, but that's another topic for another time.

Now, if the cubbies could only deal Sammy to pave way for Beltran, I'd be on a high for months!

I know, I know, we supposedly only care about basketball and the gridiron around here, so let's get down to it. Since the Bowls don't start up again until next Tuesday, I'll stick to the NFL for this week.

Pittsburgh (-10) at NY Giants

The Steelers are coming into the Meadowlands boasting the #1 Defense in all the land, compared to the 23rd ranked offense of the Giants. Let's not stop the comparison there, however. That ranking for the Giants is extremely inflated. Keep in mind that the Giants have scored a whopping ONE touchdown with Eli Manning at the helm, and have only scored two in the last three games (one more last week, with Warner coming in for mop-up duty). The O-line is terrible, the receiving corps drops balls, and Tiki (much props so far this season) is due for a fumble.

The Steelers train is continuing on its ride to the AFC championship, and I invite you to jump on board. Take the Steelers, give the points.

Mav, out.

Billy "Eddie Munster" Donovan is Bad for College Hoops

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida sophomore forward Mohamed Abukar has decided to transfer because of limited playing time through the first seven games of the season.

A top recruit from San Diego, Abukar will be the fifth scholarship player to leave the program since October 2003 and the seventh since the end of the 2002 season.

"When a guy leaves a program, generally it is based on one thing -- playing time," Gators coach Billy Donovan said. "That's what it always comes down to. Mohamed wanted to play more consistently than he was playing."

Editor's Note: Since UK heavily recruited Abukar, I can assure you that Mr. Donovan himself landed Abukar because he promised him a starting position as a freshman (Abukar never got off the bench last year). Unfortunately Billy Donovan subscribes to the Rick Pitino approach to recruiting - stockpile players regardless of how many scholarships you have available, promising them all the playing time they could possibly ask for, then let things "work themselves" out when they actually arrive on campus. Hmm, sounds similar to being a summer associate in a large law firm and then joining on the following year as an associate. I digress . . .

"Statboy Speaks" (Special Bonus Column)

Ooooooohhhh, that one hurt (referring to the North Texas v. Southern Miss showdown in the New Orleans Crap Bowl). As I wrote in my last column, I felt Southern Miss would win, but I really thought it would be by a field goal. Little did I know that the Sun Belt is that bad and this North Texas team could run through it like that. The next game on the slate is Georgia Tech - Syracuse. I will have a star-studded edition out before that game, but as a preview, this is the same 'Cuse team the Boilers took behind the woodshed (51-0...44-0 at halftime).

About this weekend, it is an NFL fan's dream. 3 games on Saturday, the game Sunday night, then another on Monday. Even those of us without DirecTV will get to see most of the games! Speaking of Sunday night's game, congrats in advance to a good friend of the G2 ... Mr. Peyton Manning. I have done the math, and he will need to get 388 yards per in the last 3 games to break the 5,084 yards thrown for by Marino in the mythical 1984 season. That seems unlikely. However, he WILL shatter Marino's TD mark. #49 will come this weekend against a great Ravens secondary, and it will come to Marvin Harrison. Do you really think that Peyton would rather throw this one to anyone else? No. Look for the 49th to come on a skinny post in the 3rd quarter to #88.

As for the games, I can't believe I am going to do this, but I like the Bears (-1) at home vs. Houston. Chad Hutchinson has been night and day better than the previous jokes the Bears of put under center this year. Johnathon Quinn, Craig Krenzel ... seriously, were Gino Torretta and Charlie Ward unavailable?

I also LOVE Carolina (+4) at Atlanta. I know I swore off the Panthers early in the year when they had cost me in 3 of 4 weeks, but this is a new team. This team is, in my opinion, the second best ball club in the NFC (kind of like taking second in the Ugliest Kid pageant). Anyway, I think Nick Goings should be able to do what few backs have, run on the outstanding Atlanta D-line.

Finally, gotta go with the World Champs and that chick magnet they have playing QB. I mean seriously, even I was impressed with the completion from his ass ... nice defense! Miami has not thrown in the towel, which is VERY commendable, but they still have no offense. Patriots (-9.5) is a LOCK.

Majerus Set to Return

Former Utah basketball coach Rick Majerus has inked a 5-year deal to coach the USC Trojans, beginning next season. Apparently his dream was to live and coach basketball near a beach. Interesting. Focusing more on his health these days, Majerus has recently declared that he regrets living the lifestyle he was accustomed to (for those not in the know, he lived in hotels, never a home or apartment).

Majerus will leave his post with ESPN. This makes sense. It would be a bit difficult to provided commentary without the look of impropriety on ESPN's behalf.

Editor's Note: Hmm, I wonder how many IU trustees had their eyes on this developing story . . .

"Statboy Speaks"

I apologize to my faithful readers that I have not written in a couple of weeks. For those of you who have followed the Gazette for these past few years, you know that I live and die for college football. The fact that the regular season is over has sent me in to a spiral of depression.

However, Bowl Season starts TONIGHT with the grand showcase of North Texas and Southern Miss in the New Orleans Bowl. Southern Miss started the year hot and even cracked the top 25. They struggled a little down the stretch, but were a blocked extra point away from tying Cal on the last weekend of the year. On the other hand, North Texas started the season 0-4 and ran the table going 7-0 in conference play to earn their 4th straight Sun Belt title. They have won 22 in a row in conference games. That is remarkable.

The single reason for their turn around this season (other than weak in-conference foes), is Jamario Thomas. This freshman rusher is the non-BCS conferece version of Adrian Peterson. He rushed for 1709 yards this year on an average of 6.7 yards per carry. He also ran for 17 TD's. These numbers are STAGGERING. I see him having a huge game and I think NTU (+4.5) will cover the spread in this, the first game of 'Bowl Season'.

Bowl Season Starts Tonight! *PLEASE READ*

F2: Sing with me, "It's the most . . . wonder-ful . . . time . . . of the yearrrrr." What a sorry bunch of singers you are! That's okay, we realize your talents are better utilized in the sports and gaming worlds, so instead of singing yourselves into ridicule, enter this year's ESPN Bowl Game Bonanza, co-sponsored by the G2. Follow this link - it's a very simple registration process (free), join an existing group (creatively titled "G2" - do a search, it's very simple) and you select the winners of each game. Don't worry about the whole "confidence rating" system, just pick the winners and let it ride! Statboy has already issued a challenge to the entire F2 to see if anyone has what it takes to go toe-to-toe with the G2's best statistician . . .

Happy Bowl Season! Though it's likely that not one single member of the F2 will spend a minute watching tonight's New Orleans Bowl between North Texas and Southern Miss, we'll be watching with a keen eye. $$$

State of the Union: G2 Style!

Faithful Followers:

Though it is certainly quite obvious that publications have been delayed a bit recently due to the end of the college football regular season and with the holiday season upon us, rest assured in knowing that the G2 will march on. Our picks will mostly be in the form of simple links via the P.O.W. hyperlink in the upper right column of this page, with daily updates from the sports world here on the main page. Thanks for making this college football season as enjoyable as ever. Stick around, as the Iceman will lead you to financial gains during the run to March Madness and the Old Man will continue to offer up his trusted Horizon League insight to anyone willing to listen (we know you're out there somewhere)!

Signed,
The G2 Staff

Did Roddick Just Make a Huge Mistake?

Andy Roddick fired coach Brad Gilbert this weekend after 1½ years together that yielded a U.S. Open title and the No. 1 ranking. No specific reason was given for the surprising split in a statement Roddick released Monday through SFX Sports Group.

"The decision to not rehire Brad Gilbert for the 2005 season is based on what I think is best for my game at this time," Roddick said. Roddick went 121-26 (an .823 winning percentage) and won nine titles with Gilbert, including his first Grand Slam at Flushing Meadows last year. Roddick finished 2003 atop the ATP Tour rankings to become, at 21, the second-youngest American to end a season there.

But Roddick was relegated to No. 2 this year behind Roger Federer, who became the first man since 1988 to win three majors in a season. Federer is 8-1 against the American over their careers.

"I have enjoyed all of my time with Andy. He has been a great student of the game during the time that we worked together and I am very proud of the results that were achieved," Gilbert wrote on his Web site Monday. "While I believe that there is still a great deal of work to be done, Andy clearly does not feel that way."

After losing in the first round of the 2003 French Open, Roddick parted with longtime coach Tarik Benhabiles and hired Gilbert, who had helped Andre Agassi resurrect his career. "One of the coolest things about working with Brad was he came in, and he's like, 'Listen, we're going to simplify things. You're going to take what you've got, enforce it on your opponent. We're going to study each opponent, know what they do,"' Roddick said then. "It wasn't all this technical mumbo-jumbo. He made it very simple."

Editor's Note: There has to be something under the radar on this one. That, or Roddick thinks he's the king of tennis right now (sorry, but I have seen Federer in person and Roddick is nowhere near that man's game right now - nobody is) and has no intentions of working on his game, just relying on talent from here on out . . . Gilbert made Agassi what he was, and molded Roddick into what he is now (as opposed to the loose cannon of his earlier years).

Congratulations, Matt Leinart

As predicted, the 2004 Heisman Trophy winner was Matt Leinart from USC. Oklahoma's Adrian Peterson finished 2nd, paving the way for future freshmen (and perhaps Peterson as a sophomore) to eventually defy tradition and win this award.

Kentucky Wins the Annual "Border War" of College Hoops

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- Patrick Sparks scored 16 points and No. 10 Kentucky dominated Indiana inside in a 73-58 win over the Hoosiers on Saturday. Chuck Hayes added 14 points and nine rebounds for Kentucky (6-1), which has won five straight games and 12 of the last 14 in its annual series against Indiana (2-4).

The Hoosiers have lost four straight games, the third time in as many seasons they've had a losing streak of at least four games. The current streak has come against heavyweights - North Carolina, Connecticut, Notre Dame and Kentucky.

Indiana entered the game shooting 34.8 percent for the season and wasn't much better against the Wildcats, shooting 38 percent. Junior guard Bracey Wright, the Hoosiers' leading scorer, kept them in the game with seven 3-pointers and 31 points.

Indiana trailed by nine points at halftime. The Hoosiers' first four baskets of the second half were 3-pointers - three of them by Wright - as Indiana pulled within 42-37 with 11:40 left.

Sparked by Kelenna Azubuike, Kentucky scored the next 11 points. Azubuike hit a 3-pointer to start the run, then capped it with a driving lay-in, a steal and an assist to Rajon Rondo, whose dunk put the Wildcats ahead 53-37 with 9:16 left. Indiana came no closer than 13 points after that.

Kentucky continually took the ball inside, and it showed - the Wildcats shot 49 percent from the field and outscored the Hoosiers 38-10 in the paint.

Center Randolph Morris scored 11 points for Kentucky, and his backup, 7-foot-3 Shagari Alleyne, had 10 points, five rebounds and four blocked shots.

Editor's Note: Needless to say, the Iceman is a happy camper. For those who are interested, the spread for this game was Kentucky (-13) originally, falling to 11.5 before tip-off.

Heisman Trophy to be Awarded on Saturday

The finalists:

Matt Leinart, USC
Reggie Bush, USC
Jason White, Oklahoma
Adrian Peterson, Oklahoma
Alex Smith, Utah

Has there ever been a stronger argument to wait until the season is completely finished before voting for the Heisman Trophy winner? Last year, we saw Jason White stumble through two of the worst games of his career AFTER the votes had been cast. This season, 4 of the 5 finalists are playing in the national championship game against each other. Why not let them battle it out on the field? Can you imagine how much talk there will be when one of these players is announced the winner on Saturday and then the other 3 play better in the Orange Bowl? Some might say it would take away from the team aspect of the game, with the four players above focusing on showcasing their individual skills; but I say "no way" baby, this is for the national championship.

No offense to Alex Smith, and while I realize he is the darkhorse candidate for some because of the other 4 taking each other's votes, I don't see him finishing any higher than 4th in this one. It'd be different if he were from the East Coast since this voting is based on regional pods. Look for Jason Campbell of Auburn to gather a slew of votes, being the only candidate east of Texas. Trev Alberts has already cast his ballot for Peterson, and Mel Kiper Jr. has admittedly voted for Leinart.

The G2 would like to see a shift in tradition, allowing the freshman Adrian Peterson to win it. Reggie Bush is the best all-around athlete in the game, but you cannot argue with Peterson's numbers as a freshman.

An Evening at the Jimmy V Classic

One of the many benefits of living in New York City is the opportunity to attend sporting events at the nation's mecca of all arenas, Madison Square Garden. Last night yours truly had floor seats for the Jimmy V Classic, not far from Andy Katz and better seats than the Syracuse Orangemen themselves during the first game. Needless to say, it was a college basketball junkie's dream come true, regardless of the outcome of the two games (which left a little to be desired) . . .

Game 1

Bottom line: #12 Pitt made Memphis look like an intramural team from Ivy Tech playing in the IUPUI winter league. A disciplined, well-balanced Pitt offense jumped out to an early 20-4 lead on a disorganized, individualistic offense that had Coach Calipari sweating in his Armani suit, gathering a technical foul in the first 10 minutes. Seeing this game up close made me realize that Pitt is for real, and Memphis is just a collection of thugs that will either put together a nice game or go down hard, the latter occurring last night. The game was a total snooze fest, as the highlight was the halftime showing of Jimmy V's "Don't Give Up" speech from the inaugural ESPY Awards. That and, well, I swear I saw John Saunders nod off a few times during the second half, as Digger Phelps was busy taking notes for the next game and signing autographs (their table was 10 feet from my seat, perched above me).

Game 2

For those who didn't stay up late enough to watch this one, don't be fooled by the final score. #4 Syracuse held a steady lead on #5 Oklahoma State from the opening tip until there were 5 minutes left in the game. The lead was never larger than 4 points, and this was their eventual downfall, never able to pull away. The Cowboys decided to wake up with 5:00 to play, embarking on a huge run that buried the Orangemen before they knew what had hit them. Boeheim's match-up zone worked for most of the game, but then the players noticeably got tired and started WALKING to their assignments as the zone shifted around, leaving open shots. I repeat, the players were walking, not sliding, not running, but walking to their man. Next thing you knew the Cowboys were up 14 points in 2 minutes, and it was all over.

I must add that John Lucas is a punk. Down 12 points with 0.8 seconds to go after a break-away dunk, Gerry McNama just rolled the ball inbounds, signaling the Orangemen's surrender, but Lucas ran over like a wildman, picked up the ball and threw it into the hoops for another basket, then acted like he won the national championship. This prompted McNama to tell him he had no class, and the two started jawing at each other. Then McNamara went over to their bench and yelled at one of the Oklahoma State assistant coaches about it. I must admit, I was bored, sleepy, and at that point hoping for a fight to break out Pacers-Pistons style, baby! But then I thought, "Not tonight. Not at a charity event in honor of the great Jimmy V."

"Old Man's Horizon League Pick-Pack"

Embarrassed, ashamed, dismayed, perplexed - these are just some of the words that come to mind after my 1-3 Horizon performance on Saturday. I did go 3-0 on my football picks, but I know that the G2 faithful read my article for the in-depth Horizon League picks. 1-3 just won't cut it for this publication! (Editor's Note: he is correct. We demand better. After all, we have a reputation to uphold) Chris Berman and the other fat guy with glasses who make picks on Sunday mornings even do better than 1-3. My rebound begins tonight.

Butler @ Bradley (-1): I'm taking the Braves, as Butler lives and dies by the 3, and they died by the 3 last week in Ohio. I think Bradley is a decent school, so I look for a close win by the Braves, but I hope that I'm wrong.

UWM (+2.5) @ St. Louis: UWM picked up an impressive road win at UIC on Saturday night, so I'd like to think they can win at St. Louis, but will they have the intensity for this mid-week out of conference game? I think so, so take the Bruce Pearl puprle shirt wearing Panthers in this one. (Editor's Note: Mav can be heard in the background yelling, "SLUUUUUUUUUUU!")

UWGB @ Wisconsin (-17.5): Big spread games are tough to call. It takes a lot of in-depth analsyis, research, and guts to call a game like this. So here goes, heads I go with Green-Bay, tails is Wisconsin, and the winner is............tails. Take the Badgers.

It's time for a nap!

Illinois Hires Zook

Personally, I think this is a great hire for a team like Illinois and a coach like Ron Zook. The pressure to win 10 games every year does not exist (side note: I think Urban Meyer will learn this the hard way) and Zook is a true player's coach. The team rallied around him, upset at his firing a month ago.

The annual coaching carousel is in high gear. But one question remains: who will end up as coach of the Fighting Irish? Notre Dame has missed out on Meyer, Zook, Tedford (staying at Cal), Mariucci (staying with the Lions), and now Jim Fossel says he has no interest in coaching college football next season. I'm confident Kevin White, the AD in South Bend, will be wishing he had Ty Willingham on the sidelines next season. He was one wide receiver and two cornerbacks away from putting together a fine season for the Irish, in light of their always difficult schedule. Let's save the scheduling debate for another time . . .

BCS National Championship: USC v. Oklahoma

Now Auburn knows what it feels like to be the odd team out.

Southern California and Oklahoma finished atop the final Bowl Championship Series standings Sunday and will meet in the Orange Bowl on Jan. 4 in a title game that might not produce a unanimous national champion.

Auburn, which finished 12-0 just like the Trojans and Sooners, finished third in the BCS points system that relies on the Associated Press and coaches polls, plus computer ratings. So the Tigers will have to settle for a Sugar Bowl berth against Virginia Tech on Jan. 3.

"It's not a perfect system, and if it was we'd all be happy today," Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville said during ABC's broadcast of the BCS pairings announcement.

USC finished with .9770 in the standings, and Oklahoma had .9681. Auburn, third much of the season, had .9331. Oklahoma's strong computer rankings kept the Sooners ahead of the Tigers in the BCS standings, while USC held on to first place thanks to its strong showing in the polls.

Last season, USC was left out of the BCS title game, despite being No. 1 in both the AP and coaches polls at the end of the regular season. Instead, Oklahoma played LSU in the Sugar Bowl, even though the Sooners lost the Big 12 title game.

Editor's Note: Give us your thoughts! Did the right teams get in? Personally, I still like Auburn, but they just didn't beat Tennessee by enough points in the SEC title game to impress (not to mention costing the Iceman a cover in his P.O.W's), though they won the game and went undefeated in the SEC, a conference that was regarded as the nation's toughest for most of the season.

Old Man's Grumblings

Horzion League Saturday Selections

Coming off of a rather lackluster performance, the Old Man must redeem himself to the faithful G2 followers, and I aim to do so with my Super Saturday Horizon league picks. Looking for a UNC-Kentucky, or ND-Michgan pick? Go elsewhere, because at the end of the column you'll find my Horizon League Super Saturday game of the year selection.

Let's start with Loyola hosting Northern Iowa (-4). Loyola is an improved club, but Northern Iowa lost at the Natty by 6, so that means I'm automatically taking them.

Detroit (-3) is hosting Bowling Green. Detroit is struggling, hell they lost to Purdue, that tells you how much they suck right now. I look for a rebound performance though, because Detroit on a Saturday is a tough place to play, I hear its "Thugs get in Free" day at Callahan Hall.

UWGB hosting Weber State (+7). Since Green Bay cost me a 4-0 weekend last weekend, I'm taking Weber to cover.

HORIZON LEAGUE SUPER SATURDAY GAME OF THE YEAR

Wisconsin-Milwaukee is at Illinois-Chicago (-2), two annual Horizon league powers. This game is certainly worthy of being on the Deuce on a Saturday afternoon. This game certainly would be more entertaining than a suck ass TTV4 Big Ten basketball game (i.e. Northwestern v. Ohio St for example). Take the home team, and you'll see your bank account explode, just don't tell the IRS.

Bonus pick: Does Tennessee suck this bad? I know Casey Clausen's brother is atrocious, hell Notre Dame beat him, but 16 1/2 point dog to Auburn. Wait, Kentucky almost beat Tennessee last week. Using this logic, as all degenerates do, then I must take Auburn to cover this massive spread!!

Things That Make you Go "Hmmm"

Aside from the fact that I am a life-long, admittedly biased UK basketball fan, I had to pick my jaw up off the floor when I checked the lines this morning. Though Kentucky (4-0) is ranked #8 in the country, and playing on the road in Chapel Hill today, the #9 North Carolina Tar Heels are favored by 10 points. Granted, the home team in a match-up like this is typically favored, but 10 points? Say whaaa? The Wildcats have beaten the Tar Heels four years in a row, including two trips to Chapel Hill.

The big question today is: which Rashad McCants will show up? The pre-season all-american, or Rashad McCancer? Though I fear jinxing my beloved Wildcats as they travel into the ever-hostile Dean Dome, I'm willing to put my 16-4 season record on the line in this matchup. Take Kentucky (+10) on the road.

"Iceman's Inklings"

As a preliminary aside, I just want to point out the new update to the G2. If you look in the upper-right corner, you'll see that we've provided a link to our picks of the week in a condensed format so that you do not have to scroll through the site. Thanks to those who e-mailed suggestions over the past few weeks. We hope this is what you were looking for! Now, on to the Iceman's picks!

College: For my final Super SEC Showdown of the season, it's only fitting that I make a selection in the SEC Championship game between the Tennessee Volunteers from the East and the Auburn Tigers of the West. Though I'm not a fan of high spreads, a few things jump out at a gamer in this contest: (1) Auburn torched the Vols in Knoxville earlier this season on national television at a time when both Ainge and Schaeffer were healthy under center and the Vols were rollin' - now, neither Ainge nor Schaeffer are healthy; (2) Auburn is one convincing win, and when I say convincing I mean an absolute southern-style whoopin', away from jumping the Sooners for #2 in the BCS standings; and (3) Auburn already had their wake-up call recently against Alabama (though they still pulled away in the 2nd half. I like Auburn (-14) to crush the Vols for the SEC title and a spot in the Orange Bowl.

NFL: When I heard that Lovie Smith and the Bears have signed Jeff George as their quarterback, I immediately checked the schedule to see who they'd be playing this weekend. As luck would have it, they're taking on the Vikings (-7) and its high-powered offense in the wake of Randy Moss' return to the grid-iron. Dante Culpepper is primed to make a late season run at the NFC, though the lack of a defense will spoil that bid. Regardless, this is the Bears we are talking about. A team that fields an offensive unit that mirrors the Plymouth Rockies of the '90s. For those who did not attend Plymouth High School with Iceman or Old Man, it doesn't really matter, you should get the reference. No offense, can't throw, successive 3-and-outs in every possession but one or two for an entire game. Ahh, the memories.

"Old Man's Grumblings"

"Hip Hip Hooray for the Horizon"

I hope that fellow G2 readers took my free advice to the bank on Saturday with the Horizon league picks of the day. If you did, you went 3 for 4. Also, if you bet on these games, you are a degenerate, especially if you bet on UWGB versus SEMO State. Also, if you called my hotline, 1-900-HORIZON, (only 1.95 per minute), you would have picked up benjamins on Air Force +7 at Milwaukee on Sunday, and UIC as an outright underdog winner at Illinois State, Tuesday night. This leads up to tonight's matchup, my Horizon League non-conference Thursday in December game of the year free selection, involving my beloved Bulldogs at perennial MAC power Ohio. Not much analysis here needed, take the Dogs as the 1 or 2 point favorite, even though a bad Ohio team almost beat them last year in Hinkle. I can't name a single player on Ohio, but I don't need to, it won't stop me from the action.

Ty Gets the Boot

This faithful ND fan has to put in a few words on Ty's dismissal. ND alums and boosters need to get over themselves. Times have changed. High schoolers these days probably don't even know that Jerome Bettis played at ND in the early '90s, or have ever heard of Tony Rice, Chirs Zorich, Michael Stonebreaker, etc. Where would you rather play, Florida, or South Bend? The strip clubs in South Bend are terrible, just ask Iceman (Editor's Note: Umm . . .). It won't matter that Urban Meyer becomes the next coach. Their schedule next year is brutal, and the defense will remain brutal.

POW's

I'll take the Colts -anything for the 3rd week in a row, because the Titans D is awful. Also, go with the Jags +3 at home on Sunday night, I smell upset, or do I smell one of my clients???? Who knows, anyway, for my third game, I'll take Va. Tech +6 or 7 at Miami. The Orange Bowl is no longer feared by opponents, jusk ask Clemson and Louisville.

"Maverick's Mumblings"

OH my OH my! As limited as the selection is for Week 14, there sure are a LOT of enticing picks. This could not be better news for MAV, as he's finally taking off his skirt and taking out his pocketbook this weekend in Sin City. I am bubbly with anticipation. As I perused the lines for college football this morning, my eyes almost popped out when I saw the line for Michigan State/Hawaii. This one, my friends, is the sure-fire, bet the mortgage, no-brainer of the year. And who better to get to pick it as one of his final POW's of the year - Stattyboy. Much props to our young prodigy, as he's surpassed any expectations.

ARMY v. NAVY (-13)

With that pick gone by the wayside, I've decided to focus on the game that embodies the spirit of football - ARMY v. NAVY. College football's most heralded rivalry kicks off this Saturday, as Navy and Army tangle in Philadelphia. This will be the 105th meeting between the two military schools, with Army leading the all-time series with a slight 49-48-7 edge. The Midshipmen (-13) are all but guaranteed a win to tie up this historical matchup.

The only bright spot on the Black Knights squad (2-8) is running back Carlton Jones. The junior has racked up 1,171 yards on the ground with 17 scores and 22 catches for 228 yards. MAV got to see this guy first-hand a few weeks back versus Air Force, and he is the real deal. However, Jones (leg) is a little banged up and is listed as "questionable" for Saturday.

Navy, on the other hand, enters the game with an 8-2 record, and had a chance to fine-tune their offense in their home finale on Nov. 20 against Rutgers 54-21 as a three-point home favorite.

As much as I hate to say it, take Navy.

TITANS at COLTS (-10.5)

It's about time I get my shot at boosting my win percentage. The Colts have surpassed all expectations over the past three weeks, scoring over 40 pts in each effort. Their defense has reaped the benefits of this output, as they've been able to hide their TERRIBLE run-stopping capabilities because opposing teams are too busy playing catch-up to run the ball.

Even if the Titans wanted to run the ball, star running back Chris Brown is hampered with turf toe, one of the most significant "insignificant" injuries in football. Add this impediment to an aging, frustrated Steve McNair, and you've got yourself a crap sandwich without the bread. Take the Colts.

"Statboy Speaks"

Just another 3-0 week my faithful followers. The only way to hold me to 2 wins this week is to only allow me to pick 2 games. And that is just what Mav and Ice have done. (Editor's Note: the schedule is rather thin w/ the season wrapping up!) Without further adieu . . .

SSSBTSD - This is the same deal as last week, but Michigan State (-6) is a better team and they will treat the trip to Aloha Land as more of a business trip. The Spartans season is over after this game...win or lose, and I look for them to send the seniors out with a big win over the Timmy Changs. Look for a shootout (I know...shocking to envision Hawai'i in a shootout), but for the Spartans to sling far many more bullets.

NFL - Buffalo (-3.5) is really clicking and if they were in the NFC, they'd probably be a lock for the playoffs. Willis is running over teams like he did at the U. He has over 100 yards in 6 of 7 starts, and Buffalo is 5-2 in those McGahee starts. AJ Feely is playing with serious heart, but he still has no weapons. I see a 2-3 touchdown victory for the Bills...because NO ONE circles the wagons down in Miami better than the Buffalo Bills.

I know that I am a football guy, but I also like college basketball. No where near the level of Iceman, but then, who is. I know nothing of the NBA and will never pretend to. However, I wanted to give you my top 5 in college after 2 weeks of play. We'll just see how these pan out late in the season (and no Purdue did not make it...just barely outside the top 5).

1. Illinois (absolutely dominant)
2. Georgia Tech (finished second last year with everyone back)
3. Kansas (Big 12 being down may hurt them)
4. Wake Forest (thankful they will not return to Champaign)
5. UNC (wake up call against Santa Barbara)

We're Left Speechless - Read for Yourself

December 1, 2004 -- Anna Benson, the former model and stripper who is married to Mets pitcher Kris Benson, vowed yesterday that if she ever catches her husband cheating, she'll have sex with all his teammates.

The buxom brunette, proclaimed "Baseball's Hottest Wife" by FHM magazine, said on Howard Stern's nationally syndicated radio show:

"I told him [Kris] — because that's the biggest thing in athletics, they cheat all the time — I told him, cheat on me all you want. If you get caught, I'm going to screw everybody on your entire team — coaches, trainers, players. I would do everybody on his whole team." Stern quipped, "Even the coaches? What about, like, the bat boys?"

"Everybody would get a turn," Anna pledged. "If I'm lining them up," Anna said, "I'll [also] circle into other teams. Whatever team he's playing, I will srew all them too."

Stern asked: "What if your husband, the great pitcher, comes to you and says, 'Honey, I need two women at the same time. I need you to do that for me?'"

Anna replied, "You know, if that's what he came to me and said that he needed, then that's what he would get, because he is my entire universe. I adore my husband. He's a saint . . . he took me out of hell" — a reference to her years on her own.

She added that she and Benson are so into each other, they've had sex in many of the stadiums where he's pitched, including PNC Park and Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh.

NOT-SO Breaking News

FIRED. Averaging 2.5 wins per year over 3 seasons will do that to you. With this loss, Statboy must decide what to do with himself. He can no longer use one of his own one-liners (i.e. "The Fighting DiNardos") that has made him famous on a less-than-regional level.