NFL Picks: The Final Week

So here we are at the end of the year. But first a look at last week

Record:

Points: Bucs, Falcons, Saints, Jets, Colts, Ravens, Raiders, Chiefs,

8-5 for a total of 113-99

Victories: Bucs, Pats, Niners, Falcons, Saints, Giants, Jets, Dolphins, Ravens, Broncos, Chiefs

11-5 for a total of 153-86

So now we have the last week of regular season picks. As usual I am using sportsline.com for my odds

Browns (-2.5) @ Bengals: A very disappointing season for the Browns ends in a victory against Cincy. And I think they will cover

Points: Browns
Victory: Browns

Bears @ Vikings (-1): PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!!!
Vikings are locked into the 6th seed so they might not play anybody. The Bears have been a disappointment but I think they will win

Victory: Bears

Falcons @ Buccaneers (-1.5): PICK'EM #2!!!!!!!!!!!!
Two teams that have really had ups and downs this year. I am going to take the Falcons because the Buccaneers are only 2-5 at home this year. Very odd

Victory: Falcons

Saints (-13) @ Panthers: Saints need this game badly in order to get the top seed in the NFC. They will play hard and I think they will win and cover

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Jets @ Bills (-1.5): PICK'EM #3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If I were Sean McDermott, I would not play Josh Allen at all. They are locked in and Josh Allen's style might be dangerous in a meaningless game. I think the Jets will play hard and they will win to get to 7-9

Victory: Jets

Dolphins @ Patriots (-16): The Pats have a tendency to rest players in the second half of these types of games so I think they won't cover but they will win.

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Pats

Packers (-12.5) @ Lions:  Like the Saints, the Packers need the game and I think they will pull away late to cover the spread

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Chargers @ Chiefs (-9.5): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hear me out. With knowledge that the Patriots only need to beat Miami to lock themselves and the Chiefs into place, I dont think the Chiefs will go all out for this game. I think they will begin to rest starters in the second half, allowing the Chargers to come by and steal the game.

Points: Chargers
Victory: Chargers

Titans (-3.5) @ Texans: Texans are locked into the 4th seed. Tennessee needs the game badly to secure a WC spot. Titans will get it

Points: Titans
Victory: Titans

Colts (-4) @ Jaguars: I think the Jaguars have packed it in for the year and the Colts will roll right past them

Points: Colts
Victory: Colts

Redskins @ Cowboys (-11): I honestly don't know what to make of Dallas. I think they will win but covering by 11 points against a Skins team that has shown improvement? I don't think so.

Points: Redskins
Victory: Cowboys

Eagles (-4.5) @ Giants: All year we have seen the Eagles, when they have needed a victory badly come through. This will not be a cakewalk because the Giants will show up, but I think the Eagles will pull it out in the end and win the NFC "Least"

Points: Giants
Victory: Eagles

Steelers (-1.5) @ Ravens: PICK'EM #4!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Same advice I gave to Sean McDermott; I give to John Harbaugh. Don't play Lamar Jackson at all. Having said that, I think the Ravens can win anyway. The Steelers offense is god awful. And their defense can be had on the ground. I will take the Ravens backups

Victory: Ravens

Cardinals @ Rams (-5): The Rams aren't great, but I can see the young Cardinals having a let down after going into Seattle and beating the Seahawks. I think the Rams will win easily.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Raiders @ Broncos (-3.5): It would be so Raiders if 3 of the 4 things they need to get to the playoffs happen and they can't win. For some reason, I think they will hear about the other games and will be let down. Broncos will win I think

Points: Broncos
Victory: Broncos

Niners (-3.5) @ Seahawks: This year has not been the normal year for Seattle at home. So despite the Niners defense looking shaky in recent weeks, I will take the Niners as the overall stronger unit to win and clinch the NFC West

Points: Niners
Victory: Niners

NFL Picks Week 16

Record:

Points: Bucs, Packers, Chiefs, Raiders, Falcons, Saints

6-6 for a total of 105-94

Victories: Bucs, Eagles, Packers, Patriots, Chiefs, Raiders, Vikings, Bills, Saints

9-6 for a total of 142-81

A so-so week for me, with 2 weeks to go

Texans (-3) @ Buccaneers: This should be a high scoring affair. But the Buccaneers are missing 2 key WRs (Evans and Godwin) so the Texans should win by more than 3.

Points: Bucs
Victory: Bucs

Bills @ Patriots (-6.5): Thanks to order of tie breakers, this game means much less for the AFC East than it could have. I think the Pats win here but I think that spread is too much against Buffalo

Points: Bills
Victory: Pats

Rams @ Niners (-6.5): Gut feeling: This will be a slaughter by the Niners. They blew a game against Atlanta last week, and the Rams, after getting kicked in the nuts by Dallas, will be feeling down. Lay the points

Points: Niners
Victory: Niners

Jaguars @ Falcons (-7):  The whole Jags organization is in disarray and the Falcons, coming off a nice win against SF will take advantage.

Points: Falcons
Victory: Falcons

Saints (-2.5) @ Titans: This is one of those "Vegas knows something" lines. That line is too lenient on the Titans. Coming off a disappointing loss to Houston and now they get the Saints looking for HFA? I can't buy it.

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Giants @ Redskins (-1): PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Redskins have been playing much better of late but I think the Giants have shown some backbone recently and will defeat the Redskins

Victory: Giants

Steelers (-3.5) @ Jets: UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!!
This should be a very low scoring game. The Steelers, with a rookie QB, against a defense that is one of the best at stopping the run. JuJu Smith Schuster is questionable at this point but he would be a big help. The last time an opposing fan base overrode a Jets game; the Jets kicked the crap out of Oakland. This won't be that but I have a feeling the Jets win.

Points: Jets
Victory: Jets

Bengals @ Dolphins: PICK'EM #2!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think I will take the Dolphins because I like what Brian Flores has done more than what Zac Taylor but it really is a toss up.

Victory: Dolphins

Panthers @ Colts (-6.5): The Panthers have lost 6 in a row and I think it will be 7. But I dont think the Colts are strong enough to cover that spread.

Points: Colts
Victory: Panthers

Ravens (-9.5) @ Browns: The Browns are a mess bonafide and the Ravens want revenge. Good luck with that, Freddie Kitchens.

Points: Ravens
Victory: Ravens

Lions @ Broncos (-7): I feel the Broncos like I feel with the Colts. I think they will win but they aren't good enough to cover the spread

Points: Lions
Victory: Broncos

Raiders @ Chargers (-7.5): And YET ANOTHER game that I feel that that the Chargers will win but that hook scares me a bit. I will take the points.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Chargers

Cowboys (-2) @ Eagles: PICK'EM #3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have to go with Dallas after the show they put on against the Rams. However I wouldn't be shocked if Philly wins either because I have seen it before. But I will take Dallas.

Victory: Cowboys

Cardinals @ Seahawks (-9.5): This one is a close call. The Cardinals played well against Cleveland but Seattle is at home where they usually win. The question is the spread. I will go with the option of a letdown. by Arizona

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Seahawks

Chiefs (-6) @ Bears: For some reason, I think the Chiefs are going to kill the Bears. The QB matchup is as stark as you will ever see and I don't know what enthusiasm the Bears will have. Give me KC

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs.

Packers @ Vikings (-5.5): The Packers offense has been slowed in recent weeks and the Vikings offense is on a roll. I will take the Vikings with the points.

Points: Vikings
Victory: Vikings

The Hallmark Channel: A Christmas Hell

         So, in recent days, the Hallmark Channel aired this ad for Zola, a wedding service and registry, and then promptly pulled it, apparently due to complaints about the fact that there are two women getting married in the ad. The network then proceeded to get destroyed in every direction from social media to Saturday Night Live, which prompted them early today to put the ad back on and apologize. I will make a couple of comments about this before I get to the main crux of my complaining.

1. Who are the people that complained about this? Clearly not men because I don't think the idea of two women marrying is that abhorrent to them. (Hell, two women kissing probably turns them on) and secondly, the Hallmark Channel is not really in the male demographic.chasing game. (More on that later). So given that logic, women must have complained about this, which is kind of unsettling considering it's a lesbian wedding.

2. I would understand the complaining if it was rubbed in that it was two women marrying and pushed into your face. But it really isn't in this ad. You could interchange the two women for a man and a woman in that ad with that dialogue. Now some people would say that proves it's pushing the agenda. But I would counter that by saying that it is normal now for two women or two men to have a wedding. It is not out of place in our society now to see these. So in essence, the fact that it is two women is irrelevant. Which is what it should be. This is not a same-sex wedding. This is a wedding. Pure and simple. And the dialogue goes along with that.

BTW, how did they choose who wore the dress and the suit? Coin toss? I don't know.

Okay. 

Now to my real problem.

               In my usual ADD way, it got me thinking about these cable Christmas movies that are produced by Freeform and Lifetime, and most guilty of all, The Hallmark Channel. These movies......these "movies" are all frickin' produced/shot in Canada so that the companies can save tons of money on shooting. They hire actors and actresses that are B to C list celebrities that are recognizable but are not high level (or salary methinks) Examples include Holly Robinson-Peete, Alison Sweeney, Alicia Witt, Candace Cameron-Bure, Lori Loughlin (NOT ANYMORE! HAHA!) Colin Ferguson, Chad Michael Murray, Jesse Metcalfe etc. 

These movies also always feature the same two plots, if you read the blurbs.

1. Girl X goes to a new area either in love with Christmas or against Christmas and changes the atmosphere in some fashion. She also meets a handsome stranger Y with whom she butts heads with initially but then eventually they get together.

2. Girl X, who hasn't been home in forever for some negative reason, goes home for Christmas. Not only does she deal with said issues, but she also runs into her "old flame" (Y) with whom she rekindles a romance.

That's it. That's the lot. There are little changes here and there, but they are essentially all the same. But that is not even the the biggest thing that bothers me about them, despite how tedious and mediocre the whole thing seems to be.

I went to look at the titles on the channel guide and I was stunned at how many times the word "Christmas" was used. These are solid filmmakers. You would think they would be able to come up with some creative titles that would be more spread out with references to the Christmas Season. 

Nope.

You know what's coming. Here's a list of the titles that I discovered on the Hallmark Channel itself:

Picture a Perfect Christmas, A Christmas Love Story, Reunited at Christmas, Hats Off to Christmas!, Check Inn to Christmas, On The Twelfth Day of Christmas, Christmas at Dollywood, Christmas in Love, A Bride For Christmas

That was how many I got through before I got to the first title without "Christmas" in the title. But then we continue. There are a few in there without the word but I will skip those

The Sweetest Christmas, Welcome To Christmas, Christmas at the Palace, Christmas at Graceland, The Christmas Club, Christmas at the Plaza, Christmas Town, Crown for Christmas, Christmas Joy, It's Christmas, Eve, My Christmas Love, Write Before Christmas, A Perfect Christmas, The Christmas Cottage, A Dream of Christmas, Christmas Getaway, A Christmas Melody, The Christmas Parade, Christmas Next Door, My Christmas Dream, With Love, Christmas, The Nine Lives of Christmas, A Cheerful Christmas, A Christmas Detour, Love You like Christmas, Miss Christmas, Switched for Christmas, Coming Home for Christmas, Christmas in Evergreen, Christmas under the Stars, Christmas Under Wraps, A Royal Christmas, A Wish for Christmas

Do you hate the word "Christmas" right now? Then I've done my job. And that was JUST the Hallmark Channel. On the sister channel; Hallmark Movies and Mysteries, they have MORE movies including two seperate movies with these tites

Time For "ME" to Come Home for Christmas, and Time For "YOU" to Come Home for Christmas.

I AM NOT KIDDING. These are two separate movies.

MY GOD.

Whomever makes up these titles needs to be either sent away and put in a loony bin muttering "Christmas" over and over again, or just needs to be taken out for his or her own good. 

Because it is clear that the persons who make these titles have no brain cells whatsoever and also think the same of the audience. "Let's make sure that the people know that all of these movies are related to Christmas by putting Christmas in the title" 

BECAUSE THE FACT THAT THEY ARE BEING SHOWN IN NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER ISN'T A BIG ENOUGH HINT!

Hallmark has to make a profit off these things otherwise why keep doing them? Sigh. I will just stick with A Charlie Brown Christmas and A Christmas Story......

DAMMMMMMMITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

NFL Picks Week #15

The scoreboard:

Points: Niners, Falcons, Lions (push), Dolphins, Colts (push), Chargers, Steelers, Titans, Giants, Ravens (TNF)

10-5 for a total of 99-88

Victories: Ravens, Packers, Browns, Falcons, Vikings, Jets, Chargers, Steelers, Titans, Eagles, Ravens (TNF)

11-5 for a total of  133- 75

So a good week for me as we go to Week 15.

Buccaneers (-4) @ Lions: I really dont know what to make of Tampa. They are kind of like the Raiders of the NFC. That being said, I do know the Lions are awful and the Bucs will beat them

Points: Bucs
Victory: Bucs

Eagles (-5.5) @ Redskins: In this edition of "Who Wants to Win the NFC East?" I think the Eagles will win but I do like how the Redskins have played recently. I will take the points

Points: Redskins
Victory: Eagles

Bears @ Packers (-4.5): Good spread here. Bears have played better of late on offense and the Packers could still have a lapse here and there. I will give the points away but a touch reluctantly

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Patriots (-10.5) @ Bengals: Another interesting spread. The question: Can the Pats offense cover? I honestly don't believe they will. They will win but not cover

Points: Bengals
Victory: Patriots

Texans @ Titans (-3): Titans have been on a roll lately and they catch the Texans after a sleepwalking effort against Denver. I think the ground game with Derrick Henry will be the difference in the game.

Points: Titans
Victory: Titans

Seahawks @ Panthers (-6.5): Seattle got smacked around by the Rams and now have to go east. I like Carolina but not to that spread. I will take the points

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Panthers

Broncos @ Chiefs (-10): After beating New England, there could be a letdown, but I think its more likely for the Broncos.

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

Dolphins @ Giants (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEKKKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Giants are the worst team in the NFL. I have no qualms making this statement. And with the release of Janoris Jenkins, they are even worse. Dolphins have been competitive, look at Brian Flores. And I think they will beat the Giants this week

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Dolphins

Jaguars @ Raiders (-6.5): Two teams that are going the wrong way. This should be a high scoring affair. But the Raiders, playing their final game in Oakland, will go out a winner.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Raiders

Browns (-3) @ Cardinals: The Cardinals have seemed to regress from the middle of the season where they were competitive. Browns need this game and they will get it.

Points: Browns
Victory: Browns

Vikings (-1.5) @ Chargers: PICK'EM!!!!!!!!
I will take the Vikings in this game because I think the Chargers are very topsy turvy and will follow a great win against Jacksonville with a bad loss

Victory: Vikings

Falcons @ Niners (-11): I sense a letdown in this game. That spread is too high for me. Give the points

Points: Falcons
Victory: Niners

Rams (-1.5) @ Cowboys: PICK'EM #2!!!!!!!!
Have the Rams found themselves a little bit? It looks like it but it seems it may be too little and too late to save them. Nevertheless I will take them in this matchup against the NFC Least

Victory: Rams

Bills @ Steelers (-1.5): PICK'EM #3!!!!!!!!!!!
Big game for both teams. Bills have a shot at the AFC East if they can win this game. Steelers need it to get in better playoff position. But at the end of the day, I think the Bills will have a plan to stop Duck "Dodgers" Hodges and Josh Allen will manage them to a win

Victory: Bills

Colts @ Saints (-9): The Colts are taking on water and now have to face an angry Saints team at home. Say goodnight, Indy

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

NFL Picks Week #14

Scoreboard update:

Points: Packers, Dolphins, Buccaneers, Bengals, Rams,

5-7 for a total of 89-83

Victories: Packers, Ravens, Titans, Buccaneers, Bengals, Rams, Chiefs, Seahawks,

8-6 for a total of 122-70

So let's get into the picks (BTW, in case you were wondering, I get my odds from Sportsline.com. This is not an ad, it's just explaining the source)

Ravens (-6) @ Bills: Can the Bills stop the Lamar juggernaut? I'm not sure. But the Bills showed me something offensively last week. and they are at home. I'm going on a hunch of a close game here

Points: Bills
Victory: Ravens

Redskins @ Packers (-12.5): Green Bay continues to ride momentum at home against a team that can't afford to win more games. I will take the Packers here

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Broncos @ Texans (-9): Texans seem to be this dark horse coming out of nowhere and the Broncos are a mess. Give me Houston.

Points: Texans
Victory: Texans

Niners @ Saints (-2.5): The key in this game will be the New Orleans defense and if they can stop George Kittle. I'm very meh on this game so I will take the Niners with the points because I'm not sure

Points: Niners
Victory: Saints

Bengals @ Browns (-7.5): I told you about this Bengals defense being sneaky good of late so this will be a close game. Browns pull it out but close

Points: Bengals
Victory: Browns

Panthers @ Falcons (-3): Always interesting to see how a team responds to a coaching change. But Kyle Allen still has been trending downwards to me so I will take the Falcons

Points: Falcons
Victory: Falcons

Lions @ Vikings (-13): After crashing against Seattle, the Vikings will take refuge against a Lions team that is lost, but that spread is a little too big for my taste

Points: Lions
Victory: Vikings

Dolphins @ Jets (-5.5): This seem to be one of those "Vegas knows something" lines. IMO, this should be a pick'em. I don't know what teams are going to show up and which aren't. I think the Jets get revenge but I can't be sure

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Jets

Colts @ Buccaneers (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!
Two big points for this game: The Colts are getting back RB Marlon Mack back from injury, which should provide a big boost to their offense, and the Buccaneers (5-6) are just 1-4 at home this year. Give me the Colts

Points: Colts
Victory: Colts

Chargers (-3) @ Jaguars: The Kings of the Heartbreaking Loss did it again last week, and I am really tempted to pick Jacksonville, but the LA defense gets All-Pro Derwin James back and Minshew is starting again, this time with teams ready for him. I will take LA, uncomfortably

Points: Chargers
Victory: Chargers

Chiefs @ Patriots (-3): Did the Pats find something in the 4th Quarter against Houston? All I know is that Belichick rarely loses 2 in a row. I will take the Pats, uncomfortably

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Steelers (-2.5) @ Cardinals: Steelers have found a groove with Duck Hodges and a stout defense and I think that will continue

Points: Steelers
Victory: Steelers

Titans (-2.5) @ Raiders: This is another one of those "Vegas knows something" lines. And this time I am going against Vegas. I think the Titans smash Oakland

Points: Titans
Victory: Titans

Seahawks @ Rams: PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a game that seems very close, give me the better QB. That would be Russell Wilson. I trust him in these big games.

Victory: Seahawks

Giants @ Eagles (-9.5): Does anybody want to win the NFC East? It's the Eagles turn to step up against a Giants team that gets a blast from the past with Eli coming back. Eagles win, but not by 10 points.

Points: Giants
Victory: Eagles

NFL Picks Week #13

So let's update the scoreboard including Thanksgiving games

Points: Bills, Bengals, Titans, Cowboys, Ravens, Bears (TH), Bills (TH), Saints (TH)

8-7 for a total of 84-76

Victories: Browns, Bills, Steelers, Bears, Saints, Titans, Pats, Ravens. Bears (TH), Saints (TH)

10-6 for a total of 114-64

So coming down the home stretch:

Packers (-6) @ Giants: Packers should be playing angry after getting blown out by the Niners. The Giants are in deep trouble in this one

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Redskins @ Panthers (-10): This spread scares me a bit but Kyle Allen's renaissance against the Saints makes me more comfortable in taking the Panthers

Points: Panthers
Victory: Panthers

Niners @ Ravens (-5): The clear game of the week. Both teams like to run the ball so it should be a quick game relatively speaking. I want this to be close but I remember the Raiders coming east last week. And that spread is perfectly placed. Give me the Ravens

Points: Ravens
Victory: Ravens

Titans @ Colts (-1.5): PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Titans control their own destiny as they have 3 games left with the Colts and Texans. The Colts have been up and down and banged up all year. I like Tennessee because I just see more explosiveness from them right now

Victory: Titans

Eagles (-10) @ Dolphins: Should the Eagles be trusted with this sort of a spread on the road? I don't really know. I'm going to take the Dolphins with the points but not be happy about it

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Eagles

Buccaneers (-2.5) @ Jaguars: The Buccaneers have been this middling team that you hear about from time to time. Their defense is bad but I don't think the Jaguars can take advantage of that.

Points: Bucs
Victory: Bucs

Jets (-3) @ Bengals: UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKK!!!!!!
This is the Bengals Super Bowl and they know it. Because of Washington winning last week, even if the Bengals get a win, their top pick is safe. They've brought back Andy Dalton specifically for the purpose of winning this game. Their defense has been hanging in tough.And I think they will go all in for this one.

Points: Bengals
Victory: Bengals

Browns (-2) @ Steelers: PICK'EM #2!!!!!!
The rematch of the Helmetgate incident. I think the Steelers will play tough, but the Browns seem to have found something in recent weeks. Give me the Browns to sweep

Victory: Browns

Rams (-3) @ Cardinals: Cardinals have been tricky this year but the Rams, like the Packers, would like to avenge an embarrassment the previous week.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Raiders @ Chiefs (-11): Chiefs will win this game but in the tone of the previous contest, Raiders will show up and play hard after an embarrassment the previous week. Spread's a little big for me.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Chiefs

Chargers (-3) @ Broncos: Two teams who have cornered the market on heartbreaking losses. In this case I just think the Chargers are just more talented and they will win.

Points: Chargers
Victory: Chargers

Patriots (-3) @ Texans: This Pats defense is so tuned in right now that no QB is safe. And that counts for Deshaun Watson too.

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Vikings @ Seahawks (-3): Seahawks have the homefield so I like them to win, but the Vikings will keep this very close and I wouldn't be surprised to see them win. I will take the points in this case.

Points: Vikings
Victory: Seahawks

NFL Picks Thanksgiving Edition

My usual picks will come later in the week as usual, but because there are 3 games on the docket for tomorrow, I decided to make a seperate post.

And here we go.

Bears (-3.5) @ Lions: Evidently Jeff Driskel could not beat the Washington Redskins as I claimed. This is an ugly matchup to start the day. I will take the Bears begrudgingly.

Points: Bears
Victory: Bears

Bills @ Cowboys (-6.5): I hate that spread. The Bills are playing well enough to keep the game within 7 points. But Dallas at home on Thanksgiving is traditionally tough to beat.

Points: Bills
Victory: Cowboys

Saints (-7) @ Falcons: This is a big spread and the Falcons have been competitive lately. I think this game will be close on a short week but the Saints will win.

Points: Falcons
Victory: Saints

NFL Picks Week #12

So let's see if I had a better week:

Points: Cowboys, Saints, Colts, Jets, Cardinals, Pats, Chiefs, Colts (TNF)

8-6 for a total of 76-69

Victory: Ravens, Cowboys, Saints, Colts, Vikings, Jets, Bills, Niners, Pats, Raiders, Rams, Chiefs, Texans (TNF).

13-1 (damn Panthers) for a total of 104-58

ONTO TO WEEK 12

Dolphins @ Browns (-10.5): I'm still not ready to trust the Browns with this huge spread. They will win but it will be under 10 points

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Browns

Broncos @ Bills (-4): This game is a must win for the Bills because their upcoming schedule is a killer. I think they know that and will get it done.

Points: Bills
Victory: Bills

Steelers (-6.5) @ Bengals: Bengals showed some life last week defensively against Oakland. I don't know if they can keep it up though. This one is tough, but I will take the points

Points: Bengals
Victory: Steelers

Giants @ Bears (-6): Chicago's defense may have to do the scoring in this one but the Giants have been prone to turnovers, so they should get their chance.

Points: Bears
Victory: Bears

Raiders (-3) @ Jets: A very sneaky game. Raiders might be caught napping on the East Coast, but I think their struggles against the Bengals woke them up a bit. Jets keep it competitive for about 3 quarters.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Raiders

Panthers @ Saints (-9.5): Kyle Allen has crashed back to Earth and so have the Panthers. The Saints will feast on the remains

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Buccaneers @ Falcons (-3.5): Falcons have done a 180 on their season and now get a blah Bucs team in. I have a blowout feeling with this game.

Points: Falcons
Victory: Falcons

Lions (-3.5) @ Redskins: I could probably QB a team and beat the Washington Redskins right now. Certainly Detroit can, even if they are weak.

Points: Lions
Victory: Lions

Seahawks @ Eagles (-1): PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!
A lot of disappointment in Eagles land and they need this game, while Seattle is somewhat safe in a WC spot. I've seen the Eagles play great with their backs against the wall (ie Bills) and I think they do it again

Victory: Eagles

Jaguars @ Titans (-3.5): The boring game of the weekend.I like the way Tennessee has trended recently so I will go with them, barely over the spread

Points: Titans
Victory: Titans

Cowboys @ Patriots (-6.5): The "America's Team" battle. Pats will shut down the Cowboys to the best of their ability but their offense has been pedestrian (ask Tom). That spread is a bit big for me.

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Patriots

Packers @ Niners (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have not been impressed with the Niners defense of late. They have given up a lot of points and now they get an Aaron Rodgers led offense, that is rested and raring to go. Niners meanwhile have played a few tight ones. Give me the Packers to get the road win

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Ravens (-3) @ Rams: Ravens are the best team in the NFL right now, easily. This will be tough for them but I think they will get it done again.

Points: Ravens
Victory: Ravens

The Rutbreakers: The Xuxa Conundrum

Sometimes memories can play morph things that you think you saw a long time ago when actually they weren't true at all. And other times, things are real and they are much deeper than you initially think when you look into them. This is one of those.

In the early 90s, my love of game shows was apparent, even at a young age. There were the grownup games (J!, WoF, TPiR, Supermarket Sweep etc.) and there were the games for kids my age (DD, Legends.., Guts etc.). But one fleeting memory stayed with me.

It was of a show that I saw on cable featuring a female host with a weird name having kids playing Double Dare-esque challenges for fun. It was very fleeting and yet it was so out there at it stuck in my mind.

Well the reason it was so clear was because this show did exist. It (and the host) was called Xuxa (pronounced Shoo-sha). It only lasted one season in 1993 and it featured exactly what I said along with special guests and songs.

Usually that would be the end of the story, but instead reading up on it uncovered a much bigger story.

While the girl and the show were not successful in the United States; in her native land of Brazil it was a much different story. This lady is/was, for lack of a better word, a goddess of children.Her epithet was "Queen of The Short Ones". This show was a major hit and her merchandising of it and her persona made her one of the richest people in the country. And she was treated with Beatles-like status. She had guards protecting her in public. In an interview, she even said that young fans would sleep outside her house.

In 1991 she became the first Brazilian to appear on the Forbes Richest People list at #37. And she started to spread her empire to Argentina and even to Europe to tape shows for Portuguese and Spanish audiences. She had a known relationship with Pele, John F. Kennedy Jr., and even Michael Jackson was rumored to want to marry her.

Now usually child stars or idols don't usually age well or make a lasting impact outside of that shot. Xuxa has defied that. She is still touring at age 56 wearing wacky costumes and she is worth an estimated 400 million dollars. I have always believed that being an idol to children is one of the best kinds of fame because the power of nostalgia can keep you in fond memories of fans for years to come. Not only does she have that in spades, but she profits from it very nicely.

To wrap this up, I want to show you her show from Brazil. She is essentially a cross between Madonna and Pee-Wee Herman and her show is part Double Dare, part American Bandstand with a set reminiscent of a Sid and Marty Krofft show. But the children who appear on her show are infectious with her energy, and even not being able to understand what the heck she is saying, you can see the hold she has over them. It just goes to show how  many stories are laid in deep when you dig enough. 

NFL Picks Week 11

Updated standings: (Had a bad week)

Points: Titans, Bills (tie to me), Cardinals, Bears, Packers, Seahawks

6-7 for a total of 68-63

Victories: Buccaneers, Ravens, Bears, Packers, Niners,

5-8 for a total of 91-57

Onto better things and Week 11

Texans @ Ravens (-4.5):  I keep waiting for the Ravens to have a let down, but it doesn't happen. I don't think it will happen this week, but I think this game will be close

Points: Texans
Victory: Ravens

Cowboys (-7.5) @ Lions: Looks like Matthew Stafford will not play which leans this game in the Cowboys direction. The Cowboys have a tendency to play down (cough Jets cough), but after losing a heartbreaker to the Vikings, I think they go for broke.

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Saints (-5.5) @ Buccaneers: I would be shocked if this was nothing but a blowout or high scoring game. Saints should be angry after getting trapped by the Falcons. Give me New Orleans

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Falcons @ Panthers (-4.5): After a tough loss to Green Bay, I expect Carolina to be ready for Atlanta. I can see a let down from the Falcons

Points: Panthers
Victory: Panthers

Jaguars @ Colts (-3): It looks like Jacoby Brissett will play against Jacksonville coming off their bye. Colts were embarrassed by Miami and will look to bounce back. The Colts by 4-5 points seems fair

Points: Colts
Victory: Colts

Broncos @ Vikings (-10): The Vikings are on a roll and now get a Broncos team with a rookie QB at home. Its a big spread, but give me the Vikings

Points: Vikings
Victory: Vikings

Jets @ Redskins (-2.5): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is an upset pick partially by necessity but Dwayne Haskins starting means that the Redskins would like to be balanced in order to not put it on his shoulders. Jets run defense is very good so Haskins will have to win it for them. He is not as good as Daniel Jones, so I think the Jets win a close game, partially by default.

Points: Jets
Victory: Jets

Bills (-6.5) @ Dolphins: Ryan Fitzpatrick has gone on his classic good streak and the Bills are teetering a bit. If the Bills had beaten the Browns (dammit) this may have been my upset pick. As it is, I think it's a close game.

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Bills

Cardinals @ Niners (-10): This spread is a little high for me. The Cardinals did well against the Niners defense the last time they played. And they have been competitive. Niners will win, but it will be close

Points: Cardinals
Victory: Niners

Patriots (-3.5) @ Eagles: Eagles are now on a bit of a roll themselves, but I just don't see them doing much against a stout NE defense, especially with a week to prepare. The hook is fascinating, but I can't take it

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Bengals @ Raiders (-11): Raiders are having a sneaky solid season and it will continue.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Raiders

Bears @ Rams (-6.5): Both McVay and Nagy are under fire for their poor offenses of late, I think Goff is the better QB so I think he gets it done, but this game will also be close

Points: Bears
Victory: Rams

Chiefs (-4) @ Chargers: Chargers have been the master of losing heartbreakers recently and I think this situation will continue. But the spread is too small to take those points.

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

NFL Picks Week #10

So the Raiders were a 2 point favorite last night and won so I get the victory credit but no points.

So through 9.1 weeks

Points: Panthers, Eagles, Dolphins, Seahawks, Broncos

5-4 for an overall record of 62-56

Victory: Texans, Bills, Panthers, Eagles, Dolphins, Raiders, Seahawks, Cowboys, Raiders (TNF)

9-5 for an overall record of 86-49

So onto Week 10:

Chiefs (-6) @ Titans: The big key to this game is that Mahomes will start against Tennessee. That gives the edge to KC, but I have an inkling that he will be rusty and this game will be closer than 6. Titans offense has been okay in recent weeks

Points: Titans
Victory: Chiefs

Bills @ Browns (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!!
I had to double take when I saw the line. Vegas might know something, but I don't buy it. Key item: Cleveland is at the bottom at the league in rushing defense. The Bills will exploit that and defense travels on the road. Give me the Bills

Points: Bills
Victory: Bills

Cardinals @ Buccaneers (-5): The Buccaneers offense is the one thing that is preventing me from pulling another upset of the week. Cause I love what the Cardinals have done. I think the Bucs will win, but that spread is too big.

Points: Cardinals
Victory: Buccaneers

Giants (-3) @ Jets: The "New York Crap Fest". I think the Giants, while bad, still seem to compete and Adam Gase is about to go out the door,

Points: Giants
Victory: Giants

Falcons @ Saints (-13.5): Normally, this spread would be too big, but Matt Ryan just coming back from injury going into the dome? Eeek.

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Ravens (-10.5) @ Bengals: I have a letdown feeling about this one. Ravens coming off knocking the Pats down; facing the lowly Bengals on the road. Ravens will win, but it will be closer than the spread

Points: Bengals
Victory: Ravens

Lions @ Bears (-2.5): I have no real feel about either of these teams. I will go with the Bears at home, but I don't feel great about it.

Points: Bears
Victory: Bears

Dolphins @ Colts (-11): Back to reality for Miami

Points: Colts
Victory: Colts

Panthers @ Packers (-5.5): The Packers laying an egg against the Chargers might have set the Panthers up for failure. I think the Packers will dominate this weekend. Just an inkling.

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Rams (-3.5) @ Steelers: Mason Rudolph has done just enough to win but I think the Rams will be too tough for him and the Steelers. The spread is just close enough for me to take the Rams

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Vikings @ Cowboys (-3): An old fashioned game methinks. The loss of Adam Thielen will hurt the Vikings and they are in Jerry World. Cowboys in a great game

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Seahawks @ Niners (-6): Niners, it looks like, will be without George Kittle, but the Seahawks defense has not been great. I will take the Niners but that spread is a bit too big

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Niners

NFL Picks Week #9

Last week (plus 1):

Points: Giants, Titans, Chargers, Jaguars, Rams, Saints, Packers,

7-6 for a grand total of 57-52

Victory: Lions, Titans, Seahawks, Jaguars, Eagles, Rams, Saints, Colts, Texans, Packers, Steelers, Niners (TNF)

12-2 for a total of  77-42

So to Week 9

Jaguars @ Texans (-1.5): ENGLISH PICK'EM! This can go either way IMO. Watt being done for the year (again) hurts the Texans defense. But the Jags defense, despite 3 INTs, did not play great against the Jets so I will go with the Texans.

Victory: Texans

Redskins @ Bills (-9.5): This spread scares me only because the Bills offense is not a high scoring one. But that Bills defense is very good. I will hesitatingly take the Skins and the points

Points: Redskins
Victory: Bills

Titans @ Panthers (-3.5): After getting killed by the Niners, I expect the Panthers to bounce back at home against a Titans team that can compete but their offense is a bit meh.

Points: Panthers
Victory: Panthers

Bears @ Eagles (-4.5): The Eagles dominated Buffalo last week in a must win game and now host a Bears team that is lost offensively. The Bears defense will keep it close but not close enough in that spread.

Points: Eagles
Victory: Eagles

Vikings @ Chiefs (-2): PICK'EM #2!
I just don't like the Chiefs defense against a Vikings offense that has found itself in recent weeks. Dalvin Cook will be the big recipient. Gimme the Vikings

Victory: Vikings

Jets (-3) @ Dolphins: UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's happening folks. The poetry is set up. Ryan Fitzpatrick QB'ing the Dolphins. Adam Gase facing his former team. The Jets are in disarray. It seems set up for this. And if it happens, Gase is done in NY.

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Dolphins

Colts (-1) @ Steelers: PICK'EM #3!
Steelers have shown resolve with Rudolph, but I think Frank Reich will have the Colts ready to go. I'm going to go with Reich over Tomlin and Brissett over Rudolph

Victory: Colts

Lions @ Raiders (-2): PICK'EM #4!
Daniel Jones did a number on the Lions defense and I expect Derek Carr to follow in that. The Raiders defense is meh but the lack of a good running game will hurt the Lions

Victory: Raiders

Buccaneers @ Seahawks (-4.5): Tampa has had a resurgent offense, but their defense is god awful. I expect Seattle to control the game on the ground and Seattle will grind them out

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Seahawks

Browns (-4) @ Broncos: The Browns have also gone through their own personal drama. However, the Broncos being on their backup QB will cost them the victory IMO. But it will be close

Points: Broncos
Victory: Browns

Packers (-3.5) @ Chargers: LA has not been a homefield for the Chargers and I think the same will happen with a Packers team that likes to travel. Give me the Packers.

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Patriots (-3) @ Ravens: This will be the first really tough opponent that the Pats will face. I think this game will be close but not close enough to impact that spread. Reminds me of the 2007 game between the undefeated Pats and Ravens. Close but Pats win.

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Cowboys (-7.5) @ Giants: The Cowboys were unable to get pressure on Sam Darnold several weeks ago. They will need to get pressure on Daniel Jones. At the moment, I think the Cowboys will win, but that spread is way too close for me.

Points: Giants
Victory: Cowboys

Top 5 British Elections that I Have Watched

Earlier this year I made a post about my love for British politics. And, lo and behold, on December 12th of this year, we will have another general election, mostly centered around the Brexit issue. With that in mind, I will name the top 5 British elections that I have watched on YouTube. I know this may bore a lot of people but it's my blog so haha. They are going backwards in time.

2017- Theresa May's Gamble fails

Very similar to Hillary's failed campaign in 2016, Theresa May (C) had a big advantage early. However, critical strategic blunders made in her manifesto (campaign plan) combined with Jeremy Corbyn's (L) shrewd campaigning to the youth vote helped to eliminate May's majority in Parliament, which led to her resignation 2 years later

2015- Collapse of the Lib Dems and Rise of the Scots

The Liberal Democrats had been in coalition government with the Conservatives for 4 years and they paid price. Their vote collapsed over promises by the Lib Dems that were not met. People at first didn't believe it; including former Lib Dem leader, Paddy Ashdown who threatened to "eat his hat" if the initial polls were correct (He ate a cake like hat afterwords) On the other side, the Scottish National Party experienced a buoy in support because of the recent referendum on Scottish independence. They took seats away from Labour in Scotland, allowing the Conservatives to drive on in (and call for a Brexit referendum).

                                 

1997- Tony Blair Exorcises Labour's Demons

After 18 years in the political wilderness, Tony Blair and his transformed New Labour Party (more centralized and less socialist) takes the shattered Conservative Party to the cleaners. There is a sense of hope around this broadcast, partially because by Labour finally winning and by Blair himself, which is kind of awkward viewing this from the future.

                                  

1992- The Upset Election

The election where the polls all got it wrong. Labour was thought to be a shoo-in to form the government, and at least force a hung parliament. But as the night went on, it became clear that the Tories had snatched victory once again, leaving Labour to think "If not now, when?" Look for impressionist Rory Bremner's hilarious joke about Paddy Ashdown at 38:36

                                     

1970- A Swingin' Upset

This is my favorite election of them all to watch. It has everything involved. It is the first general election to be shown in color yet there are still old fashioned number plates. You have an old fashioned feel about it yet there is updated technology. They go to Trafalgar Square, where people are diving into the fountain. Hell, they go to a swinging nightclub at one point to interview the young folk. It is a fun time for all. And it involves what at the time was one of the biggest upsets in British electoral history, with the sitting PM, Harold Wilson (L) being beaten by Edward Heath (C), against all polls. It's really a treat to watch.  

                                     

NFL Picks Week 8

So Last week:

Points: Dolphins, Vikings, Jaguars, Rams, Saints, Cowboys

6-7 that week (counting TNF this week), 50-46 for the year

Victory: Bills, Vikings, Packers, Jaguars, Rams, Niners, Cowboys, Pats, Vikings (TNF)

9-5 that week, 65-40 for the year

So with that in mind, we enter Week #8

Giants @ Lions (-6.5): I think the Lions win, but I can't give away that many points. They are just too meh of a team to do it. Giants will hang in there I think, like they have been doing.

Points: Giants
Victory: Lions

Buccaneers @ Titans (-2.5): I was tempted to have another go at the Titans for an upset (Thanks Melvin Gordon) but I just can't do it. Bucs have the NFL's worst passing defense and Tannehill has looked solid for them. Titans will get them

Points: Titans
Victory: Titans

Chargers @ Bears (-3.5): Tempted again but I just can't (Once again, screw you Melvin Gordon). The Bears will grind down the Chargers in a game that they need to win. But my trust in the Bears offense is doubtful to the point that I will play cautious.

Points: Chargers
Victory: Bears

Seahawks (-6.5) @ Falcons: Seahawks suffered a rare home defeat by Baltimore last week and now are going to take out their frustrations on the Falcons, who have played just well enough to lose. Because they are home and have a close point differential I will again play cautious

Points: Falcons
Victory: Seahawks

Jets @ Jaguars (-6.5): This game scares me betting Jacksonville. I have not liked the way they have talked this week about this game. It almost feels like a trap to me. That being said, the Jets are just too banged up to really push them. They will play close for a 3 quarters and the Jags will pull away late

Points: Jaguars
Victory: Jaguars

Eagles @ Bills (-1.5): PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!
This is a must win game for Philly to stay in the playoff hunt. The Bills have been a team that has done just well enough to win, kind of the opposite of the Falcons. I think desperation plays out and Philly pulls off a squeaker.

Victory: Eagles

Bengals @ Rams (-12): Nothing to be said here.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Cardinals @ Saints (-10.5): Cardinals have been a game team but playing a well oiled machine in New Orleans in the dome will not go well for them. They will be ground down,

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Broncos @ Colts (-5.5): The Colts have been the surprise team in the NFL this year. I expect that to continue against the Broncos, who are just meh. The spread is at the high end of me taking them.

Points: Colts
Victory: Colts

Panthers @ Niners (-5.5): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was not impressed by the Niners performance against Washington. They should have pounded them more. I know it was rainy, but I thought they would put up more of a dominance than just 9 points. Panthers are the healthiest they've been all year, and the Niners are due for a loss. I think this is it.

Points: Panthers
Victory: Panthers

Raiders @ Texans (-7): I really like what the Texans have been doing. I think they bounce back at home against an "eh" Raiders team. Send those points away

Points: Texans
Victory: Texans

Browns @ Patriots (-11): I think the Browns can come together in a must win situation and put on a respectable performance. I think they will keep this game close; but they won't win.

Points: Browns
Victory: Patriots

Packers (-4) @ Chiefs: With the rule out of Mahomes for this Sunday, this spread should go up, but it's too late to stop me.

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Dolphins @ Steelers (-13.5): This one is tough. The Steelers have played close games all year. except for when they beat the Bengals, the only comparable team. Because of that, I will take the Steelers with the points but cautiously

Points: Steelers
Victory: Steelers

New York: The Worst Sports Town in America

Over the last 3 days, New York sports was rocked with 3 bad and heartbreaking losses. And the reaction to said losses has made me rethink my previous posts about fandom and social media etc. And now I think I can safely say this and ask this

Why would any sane athlete want to come into this market and play?

Back in the day, New York was considered a tough town anyway to play, but the money and possibilities were considered high end. Even with being tough,  I don't think there was this cloud of negativity surrounding everything and everyone. Nowadays there is. And it all points back to one thing.

Social Media.

As I have mentioned before, it creates this echo chamber of negativity and allows it to fester and grow until it reaches the players themselves. Now New York had an echo chamber like that already in the form of sports talk radio, but that could easily be negated by turning off the dial and changing the station. But with social media, and the number of different uses it provides, it is almost impossible to escape criticism or negativity. New York fans simply don't laugh off failure and go about their day; it sticks with them as an obsession and personal vendettas.

And then you throw in the taxes situation and the "championship or bust" mentality that has grown in sports the last few years and you find an almost impossible situation to thrive in.

In other words, it's win a title or prepare for your life to be a living hell. And no sane athlete should choose to go through that .

2019 NFL Picks Week #7:

The Chiefs lost Pat Mahomes to injury but still kicked the crap out of Denver to give me the Thursday night win, so after 6 weeks and 1 game:

Spread: 44-39

W/L: 56-35

Approaching the halfway mark of the season; here we go.

Cardinals @ Giants (-3): The Cardinals have been feisty this year, thus my success with them in the Upset Picks, However, this may be the classic "WC team on early EC" game. Bit of a gut pick but I like the Giants, who played OK against NE.

Points: Giants
Victory: Giants

Texans @ Colts (-1): PICK'EM! Texans coming off a massive win against Kansas City, going to Indy in a crucial division game. It will be close, but Deshaun Watson over Brissett will edge the day IMO.

Victory: Texans

Dolphins @ Bills (-17): To get to this spread, the Bills are going to have to score on defense because their offense is okay; it's not great. I wouldn't be surprised if they do it, but it's still too big to me.

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Bills

Vikings (-2) @ Lions: Detroit got beaten by the white and black on Monday and now face the Vikings at home. This is a big test for Minny who have been mercurial. I think the Vikings get it done by more than 3, so give the points

Points: Vikings
Victory: Vikings

Raiders @ Packers (-5): Mahomes' injury opens up possibilities for Oakland, and this could be a trap game for the Packers, looking ahead to the Chiefs. For some reason, I want to proceed with caution on this one.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Packers

Jaguars (-4.5) @ Bengals: The Bengals are going for the tank. Give me the Jags.

Points: Jaguars
Victory: Jaguars

Rams (-3) @ Falcons: Rams got railroaded by the Niners and will be out for vengeance. The Falcons are at home, but their defense is a mess.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Niners (-10) @ Redskins: Redskins lost the Tank Bowl against Miami and now will suffer the consequences.

Points: Niners
Victory: Niners

Chargers @ Titans (-2.5): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Titans are at a crossroads. They just benched Marcus Mariota for Ryan Tannehill. And they had little success of it in Denver. The Chargers are coming east, but they get a 4:00 slot, meaning the time differential means less. Give me the Chargers, who seem to have a better go of it on the road in terms of support

Points: Chargers
Victory: Chargers

Ravens @ Seahawks (-3): Seattle has been on a roll and they get the Ravens at home, who can give their OL some problems. However, I don't know if Lamar has played in an environment such as this. Give me the Seattle to edge them

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Seahawks

Saints @ Bears (-3.5): I usually shy away from picking the opposition on low spreads, but I have a feeling about this game. Two tough defenses, and two iffy QB situations, This one will be close.

Points: Saints
Victory: Bears

Eagles @ Cowboys (-2.5): The two NFC East leaders are struggling. The difference to me in this game will be the Eagles defense. They have not played well. And the Cowboys got going on offense in the second half at the Meadowlands. I will take the Cowboys but not confidently

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Patriots (-10) @ Jets:  The fact that this line has not moved throughout the week is scary. The Patriots defense has been on point but their offense has not. This might be blind faith in me, but I will take the Jets to cover but not to win.

Points: Jets
Victory: Pats

2019 NFL Picks Week #6

Had a very good week last week and I finally won a Thursday night game! (Pats were easy)

Through 5 and 1 game

Spread: 38-34

Victory: 48-29

So onto Week 6:

Panthers (-2.5) @ Buccaneers: London games are always difficult to determine. In this case I am going to go with the better team and that would be Carolina

Points: Panthers
Victory: Panthers

Bengals @ Ravens (-11): I am suspicious about this line. The Ravens could have a letdown after a big OT win against the Steelers. The Bengals will probably play desperate. And its a divisional battle. Caution needed

Points: Bengals
Victory: Ravens

Seahawks (-1.5) @ Browns: PICK'EM! We have no idea what the heck Cleveland is. I do know this. Seattle has a very poor pass defense and if Baker is on, he can pick them apart. I'm going to go out on a limb and pick the Browns, although I don't feel good about it. Gut pick

Victory: Browns

Texans @ Chiefs (-4.5): Has a blueprint got out on how to stop the Chiefs offense? The Colts did a magnificent job of it and I feel the Texans have a tougher defense. If the spread were around 6 I would take the Texans points, but I still give the home edge to Kansas City

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

Saints @ Jaguars (-1.5): PICK'EM #2! In this game, the Saints defense, which has been solid will be the difference. And the more Bridgewater plays in the offense, the better he should be. Gimme the road team

Victory: Saints

Eagles @ Vikings (-3): IMO a horrible matchup for Philly. Their secondary is banged up and they have two premier wide receivers to cover. If Cousins can't have a good day against this secondary, I don't know when he will have a good day again

Points: Vikings
Victory: Vikings

Redskins (-3.5) @ Dolphins: THE TANK BOWL!!!!!!!
I'll be honest, I was really considering taking Miami in my upset pick of the week. Washington just fired their coach; the Fins have at least shown some effort. Then I looked at their results. The Dolphins have scored 26 points in 4 games. I can't rely on that!

Points: Skins
Victory: Skins

Niners @ Rams (-3): HUGE game for the Rams who are on a losing skid.And the Niners to show that they are for real. Rams are at home. I think they stand up and get a big win.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Falcons (-2.5) @ Cardinals: UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!!!!!!!!
The Falcons are a mess. Dan Quinn is probably going to be on the hot seat this offseason. And the young Cardinals scored a big road win against Cincy. I think the home crowd will help carry them to another victory.

Points: Cardinals
Victory: Cardinals

Cowboys (-7) @ Jets: A lot of people are surprised at this spread. I am not. I think this is a good tactical spread. This could have been/be a major trap for Dallas. Dallas will want to win, and should  but the spread is not overblown. I will take Dallas.

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Titans @ Broncos (-2): PICK'EM #3! Titans are 0-2 at home and 2-1 on the road. That combined with their positive point differential tells me they should be dangerous against Denver and I think will win this game

Victory: Titans

Steelers @ Chargers (-6.5): This game scares me for the Chargers. The Steelers blew a game they should have won against Baltimore and will come in angry. I think the Chargers will win because of the veteran presence of Rivers, but I will be cautious.

Points: Steelers
Victory: Chargers

Lions @ Packers (-4): The Packers are legit and are coming off a big road win. The Lions are up in the air as usual. Gimme the Pack.

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

2019 NFL Picks Week #5

So Thursday night was a pick'em. and once again I failed. I picked the Rams. Seattle won by a point.

So after 4 weeks and 1 game my record is:

Spread: 28-30

Victory: 39-24

Ravens (-3.5) @ Steelers: This is a tough one. Steelers blasted Cincy while the Ravens got knocked back by the Browns. Mason Rudolph has been solid but that rivalry is a different test. These games are usually very close. So I will proceed with caution.

Points: Steelers
Victory: Ravens

Bears (-5.5) @ Raiders: The Bears defense has continued to roll and it is the Khalil Mack revenge game. However, with uncertainty for the QB for Chicago, I'm going to play this cautiously too.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Bears

Cardinals @ Bengals (-3): This one could easily be an upset but I'm not going to go for it. Gimme the Bengals

Points: Bengals
Victory: Bengals

Jaguars @ Panthers (-3.5): Might be the most fascinating contest of the week. Two backup QBs who are making noise. However, I think Carolina will have more versatility because of their number of playmakers

Points: Panthers
Victory: Panthers

Vikings (-5) @ Giants: This is a must win game for the Minnesota Vikings. So I expect them to come out guns blazing. Giants will hang in there, but not enough IMO.

Points: Vikings
Victory: Vikings

Patriots (-15.5) @ Redskins: Nothing really needs to be said

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Jets @ Eagles (-13.5): Spread is the key with this one. I think Philly, after winning a big game against the Packers and looking forward to a big game at Minnesota, might overlook the Jets a little bit. Sam Darnold's health is also in question. That spread is a bit too big for me.

Points: Jets
Victory: Eagles

Buccaneers @ Saints (-3): The Bucs took advantage of a Rams trap last week. Not so lucky this week I think

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Falcons @ Texans (-4): This is a must win game for the Texans after getting upended by the Panthers. The Falcons pass rush scares me a bit so I'm going to play this one cautiously

Points: Falcons
Victory: Texans

Bills @ Titans (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Two very similar teams with tough defenses and meh offenses. The key to me will be the choice at QB for Buffalo. They should play this very secretly in order to confuse the Titans. I just have a liking for this Bills squad and I think they get it done on the road

Points: Bills
Victory: Bills

Broncos @ Chargers (-6): This could be a trap game for the Chargers. Broncos are 0-4 and the Chargers are playing the Steelers next on Sunday night. For that reason, I am going to play this cautiously.

Points: Broncos
Victory: Chargers

Packers @ Cowboys (-3.5): The Eagles ran all over the Packers on Thursday Night and now they will have to contend with Zeke and Dak. This game will be tough but I will take Dallas

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Browns @ Niners (-4): Nick Chubb was the key to the Browns offense last week. but the Niners are among the lowers in terms of yardage per attempt allowed. I will take the Niners at home to win.

Points: Niners
Victory: Niners

2019 NFL Picks Week #4

Thursday Night Football has been unkind to me. I have gotten every one of them wrong except for Opening Night. As a consequence, my record stands at:

22-23 against the spread

31-18 in the W/L column

Week 4:

Panthers @ Texans (-3.5): I was and am very tempted to make this my upset pick of the week. The Panthers defense is more than capable of getting to Deshaun Watson and the Panthers offensively were good last week. But I don't trust Kyle Allen that much yet. I will play it cautiously

Points: Panthers
Victory: Texans

Browns @ Ravens (-6.5): This is desperation time for the Browns. They HAVE to put up a good performance otherwise all that hype will have been for nothing. That's why this spread is a bit too big for me.

Points: Browns
Victory: Ravens

Redskins @ Giants (-3): This is right on the edge for me. Washington has some players that can kill the Giants, but Danny Dimes is at home for the first time. I think that will carry the day slightly

Points: Giants
Victory: Giants

Chargers (-14.5) @ Dolphins: If they were at home, I would gladly take the Chargers points, but the WC team on the EC bothers me a bit. I think it's a bit closer that the spread

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Chargers

Raiders @ Colts (-6.5): Frank Reich has done a remarkable job with this Colts team and I have doubted them early. Therefore I am going to jump on board the Brissett express.

Points: Colts
Victory: Colts

Chiefs (-7) @ Lions: Suspicious line from Vegas, but I think Mahomes is good enough to beat any suspicion

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

Pats (-7) @ Bills: Line here is very important. The push rule is also very important here. I think the Bills will keep it competitive but give me the Pats to beat them by a TD or more

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Titans @ Falcons (-3.5): The shine of that Cleveland game is losing its luster a little bit and the Falcons are at home in the dome. Gimme the birds

Points: Falcons
Victory: Falcons

Buccaneers @ Rams (-9.5): This line scares me a little bit because IDK if the Rams really have the put the pedal to the floor aspect to their team, but I will take these points cautiously.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Seahawks (-5.5) @ Cardinals: Seattle should be playing pissed after getting beaten at home by the Saints. I think they blow out Arizona

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Seahawks

Vikings @ Bears (-2): PICK'EM!!!!!!!!!!! Bears impressed me a little bit last week and they had Minnesota's number last year. And they're at home. Give me the Bears

Victory: Bears

Jaguars @ Broncos (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The mustached bandit Gardner Minshew is used to playing in the high altitudes of the Rockies coming from Washington State. And I don't believe the Broncos have the firepower to take advantage of Jalen Ramsey being out, if he is out. Jags get a big win on the road

Points: Jaguars
Victory: Jaguars

Cowboys (-2.5) @ Saints: I thought about taking the Saints in the dome, but Jerry World is kind of a dome so I don't see Dallas being intimidated. And the Saints may be due for a letdown

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Bengals @ Steelers (-3.5): Mason Rudolph impressed last week against San Fran and now he gets a meh Bengals team at home? Give me Pittsburgh

Points: Steelers
Victory: Steelers

2019 NFL Picks Week #3

So through the first two weeks of the season (and one game) I am:

14-16 against the spread

21-12 in the Win/Loss Column.

Not too great but let's see what we can do.

Broncos @ Packers (-7.5): Not going to go too crazy with this one. Broncos got robbed by the refs last week. Packers proved their defense was legit. Gimme GB

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Lions @ Eagles (-6): I can't figure the Lions out. Tie the Cardinals then beat the Chargers. But both games were close. My gut tells me this will be the same.

Points: Lions
Victory: Eagles

Ravens @ Chiefs (-5.5): Probably the best matchup of the week. Ravens will have to run the ball alot to keep Mahomes off the field and Vegas knows it. If the spread were a little higher I would take the Ravens but not here

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

Bengals @ Bills (-6): After sweeping the Meadowlands, the Bills have a really good chance to go 3-0. Bengals have been Jekyll and Hyde the first two weeks. With some reluctance, I'm actually going to take the points because the Bills really haven't impressed on offense the first two weeks.

Points: Bengals
Victory: Bills

Falcons @ Colts (-1.5): PICK'EM! Both teams are 1-1. I will go with the team that has the better QB and right now that is Matt Ryan

Victory: Falcons

Raiders @ Vikings (-9.5): Vikings were massively disappointing  last week in GB. So I think they will win the game but I would be cautious with that big a spread.

Points: Raiders
Victory: Vikings

Jets @ Patriots (-21.5) This line has gone down a little bit as the week has gone on, especially with the news that the Pats ended the AB experiment. It's almost right at the point that I would have to take the Patriots I think.

Points: Pats
Victory: Pats

Dolphins @ Cowboys (-23): Dallas will run up the score, I bet. It's Jerry's way.

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Giants @ Bucs (-6): This is a tough one. The Buccaneers are not elite by any stretch but that Giants D is so bad and Daniel Jones will make some rookie mistakes. I think the Bucs pull away late.

Points: Bucs
Victory: Bucs

Panthers @ Cardinals (-2): PICK'EM #2. The Cardinals are game folks. And the Panthers led by Cam Newton have not been impressive. Go with the birds

Points: Cardinals
Victory: Cardinals

Saints @ Seahawks (-4): I know Sean Payton has a week to gameplan this offense in Seattle, but I just don't think Teddy is up to it.

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Seahawks

Texans @ Chargers (-3): UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!
Chargers won in OT at home against a luckless Colts team then lost an unforgivable game against the Lions. Texans will look to bounce back and they were impressive against New Orleans in the dome
Gimme Houston

Points: Texans
Victory: Texans

Steelers @ Niners (-6.5): If the Steelers were at home for this game, I might have gone upset pick for them, but Rudolph in a tough environment might be trouble for the Steelers. But to be cautions, I will take the points

Points: Steelers
Victory: Niners

Rams (-3) @ Browns: This pick is almost too easy to me. Cleveland was not impressive on Monday Night beating up an undermanned Jets team. Now they face the defending NFC champs. Give me the Rams easy

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Bears (-4) @ Redskins: Chicago is a horrible roughing the passer penalty short of being 0-2. They are the Browns of the NFC. And the spread shows as much, Nevertheless, I think they take care of business against Washington.

Points: Bears
Victory: Bears

NFL Picks Week 2 2019

Last week I went:

Points: 7-8
Victory: 12-4

I already am 0-1 in both columns because I thought the Panthers would play well and beat Tampa. I was wrong. So here we go:

Colts @ Titans (-3): Is a letdown in order? I'm not sure. The Colts did hang in against the Chargers, but on the road again against a good defense? Nevertheless, I will be wary

Points: Colts
Victory: Titans

Chargers (-2.5) @ Lions: I was right about the Lions for my upset pick, and I think the Chargers will prevail here. After getting lit up by Kyler Murray in the second half, they get Phillip Rivers. Good luck

Points: Chargers
Victory: Chargers

Bills (-1.5) @ Giants: PICK'EM! The Giants defense is certainly not as good as the Jets defense the Bills faced the previous week. I think the Bills will sweep the Meadowlands

Victory: Bills

Cardinals @ Ravens (-13): This might be a case of the oddsmakers not seeing how bad Miami actually is. Cardinals rallied to tie the Lions and are probably feeling good. I know about the WC team on the EC, but that spread is too much

Points: Cardinals
Victory: Ravens

Patriots (-18.5) @ Dolphins: Speaking of big spreads, holy crap. I am really tempted to take the Patriots with the points here but the Patriots historically have problems in Miami. If this was at home I would give the points gladly. In Miami? No

Points: Dolphins
Victory: Patriots

Cowboys (-5.5) @ Redskins: This is more of a spread representing the NFC East. Redskins put up a nice fight against Philly but the Cowboys are a different kettle of fish. Cowboys will wear down the pass rush with Zeke

Points: Cowboys
Victory: Cowboys

Jaguars @ Texans (-8.5): When having to face a neophyte QB to start, teams will game plan for you better. I expect the Man with the Stache to struggle against Houston.

Points: Texans
Victory: Texans

Seahawks @ Steelers (-3.5): Steelers got their ass kicked and will want to stick it to Seattle. This spread is just the right amount to take Pittsburgh

Points: Steelers
Victory: Steelers

Niners @ Bengals (-2): This is a very tough game to call. Both teams showed well in their opening salvos. Which team is for real?  I'll just go with the Bengals because they are at home

Points: Bengals
Victory: Bengals

Vikings @ Packers (-2.5): This game to me comes down to whether we believe that the Packers defense is for real. I'm suspicious of this line, to be honest. I'm going with the Packers because I think Vegas may know something, but not fully

Points: Vikings
Victory: Packers

Chiefs (-7) @ Raiders: I think the Chiefs will roll over Oakland. That's it.

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

Saints @ Rams (-2): Both of these teams let their opponents hang around a little bit the previous week because I think secretly they were waiting for this. Rams will play control offense to keep Brees off the field and I think they will win.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Bears (-2.5) @ Broncos: UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKK!
Vic Fangio is the ex defensive coordinator of the Bears and knows that roster and team inside and out. But beyond that, the fact that it is in Denver proves to be a problem for a Bears offense that is predicated on running the football and I think Trubisky and Cohen will have problems in that light air. Give me the Broncos to bounce back at home

Points: Broncos
Victory: Broncos

Eagles (-2) @ Falcons: The Eagles defense did not show up that much against Washington, but I thought that would be happen being a divisional game. I think the Eagles will bounce back defensively and hold down the birds

Points: Eagles
Victory: Eagles

Browns (-6) @ Jets: This spread is interesting because with Darnold out the Jets are going to try and play keepaway using Bell and short passes. The problem is that the Jets secondary is so thin and weak that it might not matter how many possessions the Browns have. They should be focused after last week.

Points: Browns
Victory: Browns

2019 NFL Picks: Week 1

It's that time again. Time to play the odds. For those who weren't here last year, I pick the point spread and who I think will win the game. The odds I use are those on this day specifically. For point spreads lower than 2 points, I call a pick'em. So with that out of the way; Let's play.

Packers @ Bears (-3): The 100th anniversary matchup provides a Packer team that will look very different vs a Bears team that will look to continue momentum from last year. The Bears being only 3 point favorites at home intrigues me. Give me the Packers on a whim. A mini upset pick IMO

Points: Packers
Victory: Packers

Falcons @ Vikings (-4): Vikings really need to come out strong after collapsing last year. But the Falcons are no spring chickens. This game I think will be closer than the experts think, but Minny will prevail

Points: Falcons
Victory: Vikings

Redskins @ Eagles (-10): LOL. What a spread. I know the Skins are very bad, but a divisional game to open up that large is a bit much. As much as I want to, I can't give those points.

Points: Redskins
Victory: Eagles

Bills @ Jets (-3): The Jets secondary is a major concern for them, but I don't believe Josh Allen is the right QB to exploit it to perfection. The Bills defense is tough, but I think Darnold grinds it out.

Points: Jets
Victory: Jets

Ravens (-6.5)@ Dolphins: This is the opposite to me of the Eagles spread.. The Dolphins are basically jumping into the tank feet first. And the Ravens will take them to the cleaners

Points: Ravens
Victory: Ravens

Chiefs (-3.5) @ Jaguars: Interesting matchup. The "It" team of the AFC vs the previous "It" team of the AFC. Jags will try and run the ball to keep Mahomes off the field so it will be close but Mahomes is too good. Chiefs cover but not by much

Points: Chiefs
Victory: Chiefs

Titans @ Browns (-5.5): The Browns are looking to live up to the hype of being the sexy pick. The Titans are anything but sexy. And yet, I have a feeling the Browns will get a scare put into them...

Points: Titans
Victory: Browns

Rams (-2)@Panthers: Another interesting spread. Rams coming off a run to the Super Bowl visiting Carolina, where Cam Newton needs to prove he's healthy. Panthers will fight hard, but succumb to talent.

Points: Rams
Victory: Rams

Bengals @ Seahawks (-9.5): The Bengals are not as bad as Miami. but they are close and AJ Green being out will hurt them. And in that noise box....Good luck.

Points: Seahawks
Victory: Seahawks

Colts @ Chargers (-6.5): Speaking of "luck", boy this matchup has certainly been turned on its ear hasn't it? The Colts have to go into an opposing stadium without their leader and with Brissett trying to establish he is one. This spread is close. I think Chargers cover it, but barely. No Gordon will hurt them.

Points: Chargers
Victory: Chargers

Niners @ Buccaneers (-1): PICK'EM!!!!!!!! This is a tough one. This might be Winston's last chance to catch on with Tampa, while San Fran has to figure out what Jimmy G is. I'm going to go with Tampa on the Bruce Arians factor.

Points: Bucs
Victory: Bucs

Lions (-2.5) @ Cardinals: UPSET PICK OF THE WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKK!!!!!!!!
I remember last year when the Lions opened up at home against a rookie QB and a team that was thought to be bad (and were eventually). They got taken to the woodshed by the Jets. The Cardinals are at home, they are going to have some new tricks up their sleeve. This might be one of a few wins for them, but I do think they win.

Points: Cardinals
Victory: Cardinals

Giants @ Cowboys (-7): This is a little better spread for a divisional game. With Zeke in tow Cowboys will win, I believe. But the Giants will keep it close enough

Points: Giants
Victory: Cowboys

Steelers @ Patriots (-5.5): Pats ownage of the Steelers vs. early season Pats troubles. Give me a combo.

Points: Steelers
Victory: Patriots

Texans @ Saints (-7): This matchup is sexy. Two good QBs with two good teams. But in the Superdome, the young Saints defense will rise to the occasion I think, and keep the Texans at bay. No Lamar Miller for the Texans will hurt too.

Points: Saints
Victory: Saints

Broncos (-2) @ Raiders: Ah the Raiders, the drama queens of the NFL. Their infighting with AB is going to cost Derek Carr a nice weapon and one less worry for a Broncos defense that is ready to hit Carr. Give me the Broncos easy.

Points: Broncos
Victory: Broncos

British Politick

Over the last few years, I have had a growing fascination with British politics of the past, specifically elections. Usually, I hate politics because I have always believed that politics, down in its core, is arguing over minutia for the most part. Also that common sense and logic have basically gone out the window. But British politics fascinates me for two main reasons.

The first reason is that Great Britain is, in many ways, much smaller than the United States, The population is more concentrated in a small space. That leads to more face to face drama between differing factions. You can't get away from opponents and you have to stand your ground. This type of closeness is most observed in the House of Commons where MPs (equatable to US. representatives) are squeezed together in a small space. Winston Churchill once said that the reason for that was to create tension and lack of comfort. And he's right. If you ever go onto YouTube and see funny Parliament moments, you will know what I mean.

The second reason is basically that Britain is still at its heart an old fashioned country. They still use paper ballots for their elections instead of voting machines. They have lords from each constituency (equatable in a way to US districts) read out the result to the public. There is mudslinging but it seems to have a veneer of primness about it that seems to raise it above the rest, even though it must be said that most people believe that the UK tabloid press is much more biting and caustic than the US tabloid press. Nevertheless, there seems to be a veneer about it. It is also treated more like a game in Britain or so it seems to me. And also it is very uniform and statistical.

The basic way to describe how a British election works is to compare Britain to Texas, or any other state. Each constituency sends a representative (MP) to Parliament. The party that has the majority of MPs in the House of Commons gets power and the leader of said party becomes Prime Minister.

I don't wish to go into the many details of the subject, so I will just leave you with the theme that the BBC, for a long time, used for their election broadcasts (which go on for hours into the night and next morning) It is called "Arthur" by Rick Wakeman and it illustrates the drama which the British seem to treat politics.

No Crying in Baseball (Warning: Cursing)

I have gotten to the point in my sports existence where I understand that teams do lose games. However,last night, the New York Yankees lost a game that made me react in a way that I haven't in a very long time.

I'm not going to bore you with the details of it, you can look those up. But, it brought out rage in me that I haven't really felt in a long time. I was angry at anything and everything at once. Usually, the losses don't bother me but the reaction to the losses by other fans does. This loss bothered me. Like no loss has bothered me in at least a few years. I actually cried (more like teared up). At a fucking baseball game. I ranted and raved, and people said I was nuts (and I probably am). That it's one game and it doesn't affect my life, just like my parents and my psychologist said.

But it did this time. And that in itself, bothers me.

In fact it made my mood so dour, that I had to stop my workout after a half hour because I was in such a dour mood. I wasn't mean to my trainer and I'm going back tomorrow for a half hour to make it up.

But it got to me. Not just in the mind, not just in my mood, but in what I do with my time. It affected my life. And that makes it even worse. So I've decided to come to you about this and tell you about it, so that maybe you guys can understand and help me understand.

When I was in high school, I was very introverted socially. I could not interact with people socially because I didn't know much about music, movies, pop culture etc. (I've gotten better at that in time). But I did start to become knowledgeable about sports. And that is what sports in general has meant to me. It has been my social lifeline, my link to the outside. Along with that notion comes my belief (wrongly, but it is innerly in there), that the sports team you root for is your representation. It represents you. I've read some reports on sports fan psychology and this is not unusual. A lot of sports fans believe that their team is an extension of themselves. So essentially, through a transitive property, if the team is doing well, you are doing well. If the team sucks, you suck. I know it sounds stupid and illogical, but in my subconscious and emotions, it seems to take root. That is point #1.

Point #2 is that in this day and age of social media, Twitter and sports talk radio becomes an echo chamber of negativity. So that if said sports team is not doing well, there is an echo chamber effect where people are talking about it. So to go along with point #1, in these echo chambers, there are a bunch of voices that are basically saying "You suck." through point #1. I've mentioned my problems with fanbases in an earlier post. This is an extension of said problem.

I should add that Point #1 has an addendum that sports is essentially my hobby and pastime so it takes up a lot of time in my life and space in my mind in general.

Now to Point #3. And this is something ethereal. I described my pain last night as having been "violated" Now that is not, in relative terms, close to what happened. But in my mind, it seems to feel that way and let me explain why. In looking at Point #1, along with a team representing you, it kind of represents your faith. You put faith in something, you expect it to come to fruition. But when it doesn't, you feel cheated and somewhat have your trust violated. Now putting your faith/trust into a group of overpaid men who are hitting a ball for fun and making gobs of money seems on the surface, stupid. But once again, it goes back to Point #1. And if they fail, particularly in the way that they did last night, you feel violated and angry. That is the way I felt last night.


It's a huge jumble of thoughts. but it seems to extensively come down to this. I believe that the New York Yankees represent me and so if they fail, I fail. Not only do I fail, my faith fails, which makes me question the whole point of faith to begin with. And because of the echo chamber of life now, this feeling get intensified and repeated. And it comes to the point where I feel violated and it does affect my life.

As I said before I am a very insular person and when the one extension that I have seems to go wrong, it affects me a lot. And if  I'm not going to blame the extension itself, it seems I lash out at the people on the other side.

And in terms of suppressing it, it takes up such a big chunk of my time and my mind that I don't know where to find a replacement that is currently at my fingertips, or a mental thing to replace it with that is readily available, cheap, and big enough to take it down.

So I am stuck in this cycle, which reminds me of a drug addiction. And I dont think there is something big enough and cheap enough that can get me out of it. And if there is, I hope somebody can tell me please. Thank you.