A.J. Burnett Trade Analysis

If you're a die hard "Yankees can do no wrong" type of guy I'll preface this entry by saying you won't like everything I have to say. However it is my opinion, you're entitled to yours, unless it's wrong than I don't want to hear it. 

Well the AJ Burnett experiment in the Bronx is over, and despite that many critics and baseball "experts" are calling it a failure I cannot agree. Let us not forget that after the 2008 season in which the Yankees failed to reach the post season for the first time since we were in elementary school the Yanks went on a Kardashian-esque spending spree, grabbing all the big names CC, Tex, and AJ. How did this pay off? Fantastic. We won the World Series in 2009 -- a series in which AJ was without a doubt the unsung hero.

Remember game 1 when Cliff Lee out dueled CC in Philly? You remember, when sleaze ball Chase Utley hit those homers. Than it was game 2 Pedro Martinez vs. AJ, the tattooed flame thrower threw 6 hit 1 run ball and evened the series up at 1-1. Without that game do the Yankees bring home the title? Maybe, maybe not -- but we don't have to worry about that BECAUSE AJ won. The rest was history. 

Since than he was a see-saw of terrible, blah, and good. Last year he was atrocious (15 wild pitches, 31 homers WTF?) but he did have one critical playoff game to stymy off Detroit and force a Game 5 in the ALDS -- than the Yanks lost -- and that was it for AJ. He was all but worthless during the 2011 season, but in the playoffs he showed up, and in baseball we only remember the good you do if it ends in a title, anything short and you're on the hot seat. 

A World Series champ in 2009 to 15 wild pitches in 2011

It's not his fault he accepted a 5 year $82.5 deal, no one blames him, that's just absurd money. It was the Yankees "fault" they created a market in which players don't just want but expect nothing short of the big money if they're going to the Yankees. However I can't entirely blame the Yankees either -- they had no one to lead their rotation in 2008 -- Mussina retired, Pettite wasn't a #1, and we were one season removed from Chien Ming Wang who I believe was going to be great for years to come, but than he had to fucking round third against the fucking Astros and derail his career G-D DARN IT. Their marriage wasn't unexpected, he wasn't the prom queen, he was just like a really pretty girl who you go home with thinking "Meh, not the worst I could have done!" 

But when you wake up it becomes "Oh wow, well that was nice...but um...how about I call a cab to take you home now?"

I believe it is best AJ and the Yankees split ways now, but I can't blame Burnett for what happened. The Yankees for the last 4 years have at times seemed close to being special needs patients when it comes to managing their pitchers. Turning promising talent into circus acts. Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain, the hopping between rotation and bullpen is unacceptable, Cashman and Girardi have to get on the same page. Those two are no where near finished, it is up to them to figure out where they fit best, but not every year!! Hughes IS a starter Chamberlain is a BULLPEN guy -- they belong where they were in the first place. 

Rafael Soriano is back, Hideki Kuroda is new (but very old), can we trust Freddy Garcia again? Ivan Nova needs to keep doing what he's doing and Michael Pineada is a question mark that could soon become an exclamation point if he is coached and managed properly. Time will tell, and I am optimistic -- just skeptical. 

I hope the Yankees can get it right this season, because if the heart of the lineup (Tex,Arod,Swish) produces offensively like they did last year our pitching will be the the difference between an October on the golf course or a chance to hear Joe Buck cringing as he says "And the New York Yankees are World Series Champions for the 28th time!"

Sean Youngberg is a life-long baseball geek, with two parents from New York he is proud to admit that he is a Yankees fan -- but excited to see the Washington Nationals win it all one of these years -- and nervous to admit that Cal Ripken Jr and Ted Williams are his all time favorite players. But oh well! Youngberg is really looking forward to ranting about the upcoming 2012 season. If you have something that riles you up and want to hear his take on it, e-mail Sean at SAYoungberg@Gmail.com

The Shiny New NFL Mock Draft 3.0

It is officially day three of the post NFL season -- an apocalyptic feeling -- we now live in a world  where we can no longer count down to Sunday's, turn to our fantasy football teams to avoid work, and pretend that being excited for Pitchers and Catchers reporting can really heal that hole in our hearts.

Yes, it's true, times are tough. If you're not a Hockey fan you may find yourself watching a NBA game and pretending to yourself that you actually care. It's ok we've all been there. 

To fill the void of no football until the combine in two weeks here's an adrenaline shot that is sure to have you running the 3,423,780 different draft scenarios your team could pull off in the first round; that is of course unless you're the Indianapolis Colts....

(Every player has been linked to an article, video, or bio...don't miss Justin Blackmon's Sport Science, Courtney Upshaw's hit or Vontaze Burfict's attitude)

1). Colts- Andrew Luck QB, Stanford- duh.

2). Rams- Justin Blackmon WR, OKST- even though I think a trade from Cleveland or Washington is probable; Blackmon might be too good to pass up. The Rams have one of the worst receiving corps and Bradford could use a big target, as Brandon Lloyd is most likely following Josh McDaniels to New England.

3). Vikings- Matt Kalil OT, USC-the best lineman in recent years falls right into the Vikings’ lap. His

4). Browns- Robert Griffin III QB, Baylor- if RG3 is available when Cleveland is on the clock, it’s a sure thing.

5) Bucs- Morris Claiborne CB, LSU- Ronde Barber might be retiring this offseason and Aqib Talib is probably going to jail for something he's done or will do.

6). Redskins- Riley Reiff OT, Iowa- who knows who will be the starting QB in Washington next season, but it would be in the best interest of the franchise to protect him at all costs. If the Skins miss out on RG3, a trade-down is possible.

7). Jaguars- Quinton Coples DE, UNC- the Jags had a very pleasant surprise with their defense last season, but someone other than Jeremy Mincey needs to get to the QB. Jacksonville could also trade this pick and target Michael Floyd.

Coples will be an instant starter in Jacksonville

8). Dolphins- Jonathan Martin OT, Stanford- Andrew Luck had great protection in Martin and he'll bring that to South Beach. Some scouts have said that his run blocking is superior to Kalil’s.

9). Panthers- Michael Brockers DT, LSU- an absolute freak DT who can plug up the run defense. Still very raw, but can get to the QB in a hurry.

10). Bills- Courtney Upshaw DE/OLB Alabama- they play in the AFC East so give them as many defensive weapons as possible. Upshaw is the best defensive prospect on the board.

11). Chiefs- Trent Richardson RB, Alabama- Jamal Charles might not be ready to go at the beginning of next season and Richardson is the top player available.

12). Seahawks- Devon Still DT, PSU- the Seahawks need to get to the QB and this huge DT could anchor a promising young defense.

13). Cardinals- Michael Floyd WR, ND- remember when it was Fitz and Boldin? Floyd would offer a speedy target that could free up Larry.

14). Cowboys- Dre Kirkpatrick CB, Alabama- the Cowboys are not ones to shy away from character issues and Kirkpatrick is a steal at 14.

15). Eagles- Luke Kuechly ILB, BC- Reid doesn't draft LBs in the first round but this kid averaged 15 tackles for Boston College. Immediate upgrade over...anyone.

16). Jets- Melvin Ingram DE, S. Carolina- the Jets’ defense was not as dominant as last season, and Rex will most likely try to bolster his defensive line. He’s short, but people said that about Elvis Dumervil.

17). Bengals- Lamar Miller RB, Miami- Cedric Benson may not be in Cinci next season, and even if he is the addition of Miller would make for a nice 1-2 punch. The redshirt sophomore is an animal, a home run threat who has some scouts saying is the best RB out of Miami since Frank Gore.

18). Chargers- David DeCastro G, Stanford- Andrew Luck’s success is in part due to his offensive lineman. Kris Dielman, a perennial Pro-Bowler, is considering retirement which makes San Diego’s need for a dominant guard even more pressing.

Jeffery would give Cutler and Chicago a true #1 target

19). Bears- Alshon Jeffrey WR, S.Carolina- Cutler was at his best when he had Marshall in Denver. He’s functioned with Knox, Bennett, and Hester, but a big, strong receiver would be an instant upgrade. Jeffrey’s speed has some scouts concerned, but we will see what he does at the combine. 

20). Titans- Peter Konz C, Wisconsin- best center in the draft and an immediate starter.

21). Bengals- Janoris Jenkins CB, N. Alabama- everyone knows the Bengals don’t care about players with off-the-field problems and Jenkins’ arrests allows him to fall. He’s top 10 talent who will be a great addition late in the first round. 

22). Browns- Kendall Wright WR, Baylor- if they get RG3, why not reunite him with his favorite college target?  Wright would allow Greg Little to become more of a #2 receiver, which is definitely where he should be. A dream scenario, but Cleveland need SOMETHING right?

23). Lions- Mark Barron SS, Alabama- they can't have enough defensive backs when they play Rodgers twice a year (and possibly Brees, Manning, and Ryan).

24). Steelers- Cordy Glenn G, Georgia- an aging offensive line is not a good thing, especially after the hits Ben has taken these last three seasons.

25). Broncos-Dwayne Allen TE, Clemson- Tebow needs a safety valve when he scrambles out of the pocket. Allen has drawn comparisons to Jermichael Finley and he would be a huge upgrade over Daniel Fells and Virgil Green. 

26). Texans- Mohammad Sanu WR, Rutgers- this may be a reach, but if Blackmon, Floyd, and Jeffrey are all gone then I could see Houston grabbing a big target to complement Andre.

27). Patriots- Fletcher Cox DT, Miss. St- The Pats need to revamp that once formidable defense, with Andre Carter and Mark Anderson 

28). Packers- Whitney Mercilus DE/OLB Illinois- sponge-like defense that could use a lot of plugs. Mercilus may have had the best season out of any defensive player in the draft, but could he be a one-hit wonder?

Burficit would be a fantastic fit in that Ravens D

29.) Ravens- Vontaze Burfict LB, Arizona State- hot-headed, ill-tempered, and, quite frankly, fucking psychotic on the field. He'll fall in the draft but not too many teams can offer a riled up rookie guidance and maturity like the Ravens. Are we looking at Ray Lewis' replacement? 

30). 49ers- Chase Minnifield CB, Virginia- San Francisco might not want to overpay Carlos Rogers and instead go young at cornerback. Minnifield had a very underrated year at UVA and could surprise a lot of people early on.

31). Patriots- Jerel Worthy DT, Michigan St- big, physical DT who can get to the QB as well as stop the run. Belicheck needs to keep adding to his defense.

32). Giants- Dont’a Hightower- ILB, Alabama- another ‘Bama defensive player that could make a huge difference for a team. Instand upgrade over Chase Blackburn.

Sean Youngberg and Chris Wood compiled this NFL Mock Draft. Both of these young studs were students at James Madison University where they hosted the top rated radio talk show, "So You Think You Know Sports?" The former drinking partners and wing men were forced apart by growing up, luckily for man kind they have once again joined forces to bring you (to the best of their abilities) these damn good Mock's. Look out for more NFL Mock Drafts and Sport Talk mailbags in upcoming weeks.

Do you think Chris Wood is the next Mel Kiper? Or do you find him to be a blathering nutcase? Either way send your questions, comments, and own analysis to Chris Wood at ChrisWood1313@gmail.com 

DC Pro Sports Report

The Sean-Shine State is proud to announce that our 2012 NFL Mock Drafts have been picked up by DC Pro Sport Report! What is the DC Pro Sport Report you may ask, it is a database of mock drafts that first appeared on the internet over 14 years ago - and as far as databases go - it is one of the most complete out there. 

When you go to their site you will see that the draft is the 20th mock listed under 'Chris Wood's Mock' The site is great not only to boost our readership but if you're an NFL junky than we just found the illegal cargo ship coming from Cuba to Florida. 

Thank you for reading The Sean-Shine State, and be prepared as we are getting ready to launch our new 'SO You Think You Know Sports' blog in the upcoming month; chock full of new bloggers and stories that only the minds of single sport loving men could create.

Be Good, Do Good. 

Sean 

Chris Wood's Mock Draft 2.0

The NFL Draft is to teams what a face lift is to Joan Rivers, an opportunity to create a new look for yourself, plug up some ugly blemishes, or just temporarily fix an incurable atrocity. It's a full on facelift for a few organizations (Colts, Vikings, Redskins) and a mere Botox shot to the cheeks for others (Packers, Patriots, Giants). Regardless it's a risky investment that can either go horribly wrong or become a spectacular masterpiece for years to come. 

This mock includes potential trades, players finding their way in to the first round, and one QB desperate team solidifying their other needs (watch out Washington) without further adieu if you'll excuse me, I'm on the clock and in the hot seat. 

With the first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft the Indianapolis Colts select.....

1). Colts- Andrew Luck- duh.

TRADE

2). Browns- Robert Griffin III- the Browns position at 4 is much more enticing than the Redskins position at 6.

Kalil: The first puzzle piece to Minnesota's rebuild

3). Vikings- Matt Kalil- The best lineman in recent years falls right into the Vikings’ lap. 

4). Rams- Justin Blackmon- the two-time Biletnikoff winner finally gives Sam Bradford a big, deep-threat target. The arsenal is empty, with Brandon Lloyd potentially following Josh McDaniels to New England.

5) Buccaneers- Morris Claiborne - Ronde Barber might be retiring this offseason and Aqib Talib is probably going to jail, but if they stay than they’ll immediately have one of the league’s best secondaries.

6). Redskins- Riley Reiff- who knows who will be the starting QB in Washington next season, but it would be in the best interest of the franchise to protect him at all costs. If the Skins miss out on RG3, a trade-down in a second consecutive year seems very possible.

7). Jaguars- Quinton Coples- the Jags had a very pleasant surprise with their defense last season, but someone other than Jeremy Mincey needs to get to the QB.

8). Dolphins- Jonathan Martin- Andrew Luck had great protection in Martin and he'll bring that to South Beach. Martin and Long would form great protection for Matt (Flynn? Moore?)

9). Panthers- Michael Brockers- an absolute freak DT who can plug up the run defense. Still very raw, but can get to the QB in a hurry.

10). Bills- Courtney Upshaw- they play in the AFC East so give them as many defensive weapons as possible. Upshaw is the best defensive prospect on the board, too.

11). Chiefs- Trent Richardson- Jamal Charles might not be ready to go at the beginning of next season, Thomas Jones will most likely be in another uniform and Richardson is the top player available.

12). Seahawks- Devon Still- a strong DT that could anchor a promising young defense.

Floyd is a playmaker, but more importantly he
 could free up Fitz in Arizona.

13). Cardinals- Michael Floyd- remember when it was Fitzgerald and Boldin? Floyd would offer a speedy target that could free up Larry.

14). Cowboys- David DeCastro- they need an O-lineman and DeCastro is the best available.

15). Eagles- Luke Kuechly- Andy Reid doesn't draft LBs in the first round but this kid averaged 15 tackles for Boston College. Immediate upgrade over...anyone on that roster.

16). Jets- Melvin Ingram- the Jets’ defense was not as dominant as last season, and Rex will most likely try to bolster his defensive line. He’s short, but people said that about Elvis Dumervil.

17). Bengals- Lamar Miller- Cedric Benson is not good and probably won't be in Cinci next season. The redshirt sophomore is an animal; absolute home run threat that people say is the best RB out of Miami since Frank Gore.

18). Chargers - Mike Adams-  he will bolster an awful offensive line that must improve with the quick defenses of the AFC West.

19). Bears- Alshon Jeffrey- Cutler was at his best when he had Marshall in Denver. He’s functioned with Knox, Bennett, and Hester, but a big, strong receiver would be an instant upgrade for Mike Tice’s offense (that’s still weird to hear right?)

20). Titans- Peter Konz- best center in the draft and an immediate starter.

21). Bengals- Dre Kirkpatrick- everyone knows the Bengals don’t care about players with off-the-field problems and Kirkpatrick’s recent arrest allows him to fall. He’s a top 10 talent who might as well be called “The 2012 Dez Bryant Dilemma.” 

Dre Kirkpatrick: Top 10 Talent, 5th grader's attitude

22). Browns- Kendall Wright- if they get RG3, why not reunite him with his favorite college target? (This pick could be included in the trade and if the Rams have this pick I like them taking Zach Brown.)

23). Lions- Mark Barron- they can't have enough defensive backs when they play Rodgers twice a year (and possibly Brees, Manning, and Ryan).

24). Steelers- Cordy Glenn- an aging offensive line is not a good thing, and when that line wasn’t spectacular to start with it makes things worse. Big Ben can’t take those hits forever, Glenn will help hold up those AFC North defensive lines.

25). Broncos-Alfonzo Dennard- some scouts rated him higher than Amukamara last year. Could start immediately over Goodman and eventually replace Champ Bailey (big..no, no HUGE shoes to fill)

26). Texans- Mohammad Sanu- this may be a reach, but if Blackmon, Floyd, and Jeffrey are all gone then I could see Houston grabbing a big target to complement Andre.

27). Patriots- Fletcher Cox- helps bolster that run defense (which, admittedly, has looked amazing recently).

28). Packers- Whitney Mercilus- sponge-like defense that could use a lot of plugs. Mercilus may have had the best season out of any defensive player in the draft, but could he be a one-hit wonder?

29.) Ravens- Vontaze Burfict- hot-headed, ill-tempered, and, quite frankly, fucking psycho. He’ll fit right in in Baltimore. Ray Lewis' replacement?

30). 49ers- Lavonte David- a receiver would be nice but I don’t think Dwight Jones is worth a first-round selection. Ahmad Brooks may not be coming back to San Francisco; Willis, Smith, and David could be a formidable linebacking corps.

31). Giants*- Dwayne Allen- Rodgers has Finley, Brees has Graham, Brady has Gronkowski and Hernandez, Eli has Ballard and Beckum.

32). Patriots*- Chase Minnifield- the Patriots can’t go wrong by updating their secondary and Minnifield has shown a ton of promise.

*Super Bowl 46 to determine 31^st and 32^nd picks. 

Do you agree with Woody or think he's a moron? Send your questions, comments, and own analysis to Chris Wood at ChrisWood1313@Gmail.com


Don't forget to send in your questions to Chris Wood and Sean Youngberg (SAYoungberg@gmail.com) for the "So You Think You Know Sports?" weekly mailbag. 

Chris Wood's Mock Draft 1.0

With the 2011 NFL season officially one week away from being finite it seems necessary to find other ways in which we can all eat/drink/breathe more football. No team regardless of how successful they are is ever one hundred percent complete (i.e. New England's secondary) and although it may seem as if rock bottom was hit, than surpassed there is always light at the end of the tunnel (The Detroit Lions) There is plenty of time for 40 times to go awry, vertical leaps to reach new heights, no name players to sneak into the first round and current stars to be arrested in the offseason to change teams strategies. With nearly three months until April's draft plenty can happen, but for now this is what makes the most sense...at least to me...here we go!


With the first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft the Indianapolis Colts Select....


1). Colts- Andrew Luck- duh.

2). Rams- Matt Kalil- I think Browns and Redskins will trade up; Browns position at 4 is more enticing than Redskins position at 6 because Claiborne or Blackmon would be available. For simplicity, Kalil goes to St. Louis.

Claiborne would improve any teams secondary

3). Vikings- Morris Claiborne- big playmaker helps out a porous secondary. 

4). Browns- Robert Griffin III- Colt McCoy experiment failed...miserably.

5) Buccaneers- Justin Blackmon- Mike Williams is 5'10" and the Freeman- Blackmon combination could be dangerous (they'll still finish last in the division, though.)

6). Redskins- Trent Richardson- if they can't land RG3 then Matt Flynn might be in DC (or Brock Osweiler might be drafted in round two). Shanahan loves running backs and Richardson is the best prospect since AP.

7). Jaguars- Riley Reiff- if they're going with Blaine Gabbert as their QB they might as well protect him with a great O-lineman.

8). Dolphins- Jonathan Martin- Andrew Luck had great protection in Martin and he'll bring that to South Beach. Dre Kirkpatrick would have gone here but he loves his marijuana.

9). Panthers- Michael Brockers- an absolute freak DT who can plug up the run defense. Still very raw, but can get to the QB, as well.

10). Bills- Courtney Upshaw- they place in the AFC East so give them as many defensive weapons as possible.

11). Chiefs- Whitney Mercilus- may have had the best season out of any defensive player. Gives the Chiefs a force alongside Hali and Johnson.

12). Seahawks- Devon Still- He was the only positive anything to come out of Penn State this year, a huge DT that could anchor a promising young defense.

Devon Still: The answer to Seattle's defensive woes?

13). Cardinals- Kendall Wright- remember when it was Fitz and Boldin? Wright would offer a speedy target who could free up Larry.

14). Cowboys- David DeCastro- they need a fucking  O-lineman and DeCastro is very good.

15). Eagles- Luke Kuechly- Reid doesn't draft LBs in the first round but this kid averaged 15 tackles for Boston College. Immediate upgrade over...anyone.

16). Jets- Michael Floyd- Sanchez could use a big, strong target. Holmes and Floyd could be lethal 1-2 punch.

17). Bengals- Lamar Miller- Cedric Benson is not good and probably won't be in Cinci next season. Redshirt sophomore is an animal; absolute home run threat.

18). Chargers- Mike Adams- awful offensive line that must improve with the quick defenses of the AFC West.

19). Bears- Quinton Coples- makes a good defense even better; top 10 talent.

20). Titans- Peter Konz- best center in the draft and an immediate starter.

21). Bengals- Janoris Jenkins- Bengals loves players with off the field issues and Jenkins has them. He's an absolute ball-hawk though and a great value pick.

22). Browns- Dre Kirkpatrick- he falls because of his recent arrest but is an absolute steal this late. Huge, physical corner that can hit.

Mark Barron would help Detroit against the NFCs QBs

23). Lions- Mark Barron- they can't have enough defensive backs when they play Rodgers twice a year (and possibly Brees, Manning, and Ryan). 

24). Steelers- Cordy Glenn- an aging offensive line is not a good thing, especially after the hits Ben takes.

25). Broncos-Alfonzo Dennard- some scouts rated him higher than Amukamara last year. Could start immediately over Goodman and may be the next Champ? Probably not, but hes intriguing.

26). Texans- Alshon Jefferey- gives Schaub another target to go along with that Andrew Johnson guy.

27). Patriots- Fletcher Cox- helps bolster that run defense (which, admittedly, has looked amazing recently).

28). Packers- Melvin Ingram- sponge-like defense that could use a lot of plugs. Ingram is quick and can get to the QB

29.) Ravens- Vontaze Burfict- hot-headed, ill-tempered, and quite frankly fucking psycho. Ray Lewis' replacement?

30). 49ers- Mohamed Sanu- Alex Smith needs help and Sanu could complement Vernon and Crabtree.

31). Giants- Dontari Poe- 6'5" 350 lbs. Put him in the middle of Tuck, Pierre-Paul, and Osi. Oh my.

32). Patriots- Jayron Hosley- need help in the secondary and the man out of Tech could be the answer.

Christopher Michael Wood also known as Woody is a 5th year senior at James Madison University with an incredible amount of time on his hands and knowledge in his brain. Woody is the former co-host of JMU's #1 Radio Talk Show "So You Think You Know Sports?" and a lifelong Denver Broncos fan, Atlanta Braves supporter and curling guru.

Do you agree with Woody or think he's a moron? Send your questions, comments, and own analysis to Chris Wood at ChrisWood1313@Gmail.com

Saturday's NFL Games from a Gambling Perspective

Yes, we are talking about playoffs. Another NFL weekend filled with sitting on couches, digesting meat by the bucket loads, guzzling beers, as well as placing bets and making predictions in hopes of gaining extra cash, pride, bragging rights, or all three.

After a very successful first weekend in which I went 4/4 in picking winners, and 3/4 in going against the spread (who knew Atlanta would play that horrendously?) It is time to bring out the crystal ball and see what the 2012 Divisional Playoff weekend has in store for us and our wallets.

New Orleans Saints (-3.5) @ San Francisco 49ers

Over / Under: 47.5

This is a game between the yesterday and today of the NFL. An old school 49ers defense taking on the futuristic air-attack of Drew Brees and the Saints. The multitude of experts, analysts, and fans jumping to place their money on New Orleans isn't surprising, it's the safe bet, but here's why it's the wrong bet.

If the 49ers can avoid falling behind by more than two scores early in this game they'll survive to play another day. 

Smash Mouth D vs High Flying Offense

New Orleans is 5-3 on the road this season, against a relatively light schedule (St. Louis, Minnesota, Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Indianapolis, Atlanta, Carolina, and Tennessee) and now they head across the country to take on the league's top ranked rush defense and 16th pass defense. On the road the Saints scoring is cut nearly in half of what they do when in the comforts of the Super Dome. 

With Patrick Willis and Frank Gore back at full strength, playing at home hosting their first playoff game in nearly a decade - and first under Jim Harbaugh I expect to see a lot of fight out of the 49ers - enough fight to pull the upset and wait to see if they're heading to Lambeau or hosting the New York Giants. 

Conventional wisdom says Saints, but I'm not feeling it. With a little inspiration from The Honey Badger I like San Francisco to upset the NFC South Champs: 28-24

Betting Re-Cap: Take the 49ers with the spread. Take the Over (47.5)

Tebow: NFL Mercenary

Tim Tebow is a lot of things -- a professional football player, religious role model, an atheist's nightmare, a winner, a leader, a motivator, the butt of jokes -- and now he's becoming something completely new, an NFL Mercenary.

Hate him or love him he is the man we have all been waiting for, and he's on the team that could just bring us all a little bit of glory. 

QB? RB? Who cares - he's a football player. 

It began in Week 11 when the hard nosed Denver Broncos stunned the NFL's largest group of Divas and sent the Jets back to New York with their panties tied in a bunch after a 17-13 upset in which Tebow drove down the field with under a minute left to seal the kill. 

He helped snipe the Chargers in week 12, tore up a criminal filled Minnesota Vikings secondary for 202 yards in week 13, sliced the throat and playoff hopes of the Chicago Bears in Week 14 which led Brian Urlacher to whine and complain like a Mafia Kingpin heading for a life's sentence.

He took on assignment that every NFL expert deemed impossible and executed it by doing what his boss John Elway told him "Pull the trigger."

Mafia King Pin Ben Rapelisberger 

Tebow's tactics may have been a little cruel and definitely unusual - but like Dexter Morgan he looks his victims in the eyes, smirks a little school boy smirk, and than shoves his blade into your heart - or in this case an 80 yard TD pass to Demaryius Thomas to complete the quickest over time in NFL history (regular or postseason) He pulled the trigger and aimed right for Pittsburgh's heart.

With the barrel still smoking it's time for revenge. 

The assailants who slipped away in week 15, due large in part to three costly and consecutive Bronco (and Tebow) turnovers that changed the winds and took away what looked likely to become the first Mile High Miracle.

The Father, The Son....

The father of all head coaches and his fortunate son with their loot of Super Bowl rings, scandals, and victories will invite this year's hottest trend to Foxborough for a date with destiny. A high power octane offense meeting a prideful defense in the ring for a second go around, the best QB of the last decade against the QB who defies all the odds, and an offense ready to prove they have a few more rounds in the chamber and are not just a smoking barrel.

Who knows a victory Sunday may send Denver to the crime capital of the USA, to Baltimore to take on a group that prides themselves on their thug attitude. This spree is not ready to end.

If you ask Tebow if he's ready to accept his role as NFL Mercenary he'll probably reach into the quote vault and pull out former boxing champion Larry Holmes' words, "I never tried to be a mercenary or a killer but a hard working fighter." 

Hate him. 

Love him. 

The NFL Mercenary is out there fighting the fight the rest of us wish we could. 

Is the old face of the NFL ready to make room for Tebowmania? We'll find out Sunday. 

Tebow Be Thy Name

I'm like you, you and I we're pretty similar I'd bet. You like football, a good beer -- with no lite in the title -- Russell Crowe movies, and Tim Tebow.

Wait? You DON'T like Tim Tebow? Get out of town you're the only one I know.

You say there's a lot of football minded people across America who do not like Tebow?

The way he plays? His relationship with the media? Because he Gator chomped your Buckeyes?

Tebow found his way into the MVP talk

What a shame. I like Tim Tebow, actually I'm infatuated with the man. Peter, Paul, and Tebow.The Father the Son and the Holy Tebow. You get the point...

Tebow has won a title on both the high school and college levels, and while the Super Bowl is still  three months away it may not be a stretch for the son of a preacher to be a champion in the NFL as well.

After starting 1-4 Denver cut ways with Kyle Orton and handed the reins over to Tebow, who eight weeks later has the Broncos at 7-5 and in first place atop the AFC West. A feat that nearly every NFL expert on every network deemed impossible.

Tebow recorded a 149.3 QB rating vs. Minnesota

All the stat crunchers out there who cannot get by the fact he won't put up Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers numbers received a shock after a a 149.3 QB rating against Minnesota, a season and career best.

Tebow has surpassed the 100 QB rating three times this season, and the 90 mark twice. He'll never surpass the passing marks John Elway holds, but like the Broncos current Team President, Tebow will be in the MVP talk.

Too soon? He won't win it, don't sweat, a man up in Wisconsin will, but he will be talked about and that in itself is a win.

Tebow has 10 passing tds and one interception, an 87.9 QB rating, and 468 rush yards but most importantly he has six wins and only one loss.

A winner both on and off the field, I'll take it.

You may hate his opinions and religious discussion Kurt Warner, but I'll take that over some of the other jail birds in the league. In Week 13 -- Erik Walden of the Green Bay Packers and Ronaldo McClain of the Oakland Raiders -- were starting for their respective teams the same week they were arrested on different types of assault charges. Stupendous! Where's the NFL arrest free clock at?

I'll take a Bible toting Christian over a gun toting alleged woman abuser.

Just saying.

You're free to keep on hating, it's your right. I however will keep on cheering and rooting for the guy who plays quarterback like a linebacker and after Jacksonville fans suffered through Monday Night Football I'd bet they wish they were cheering on Tebow instead of Gabbert.

I would bet Indianapolis fans would rather have Tebow instead of Orlovsky or Painter or whoever, or the Washington faithful instead of Grossman, what about Chicago right about now instead of Hanie or maybe Seattle to team up with Marshawn Lynch double the power!

Denver took Tebow on, they changed their playbook to adapt to his strengths, the defense has stepped up time and again, and with four weeks left the rush to the postseason is on.

The haters will hate and the fans will cheer, but if Tebow continues on this path of righteousness against Chicago Bears as the favorites at home this Sunday -- the cheers will drown out the non believers -- and Tebow will be one step closer to redemption in a home playoff game.

Ask and you shall receive. 

Sean Youngberg
Sports Writer and awesome owner of this blog

Like me? Hate me? Have a suggestion -- email SAYoungberg@Gmail.com

The Avett Brothers

Two days ago I saw The Avett Brothers perform down at Virginia Tech -- it was my second time having the privilege to see these guys put on a monstrous performance. Non-stop kick ass country/rock/folk music for nearly two hours. It was my second time in the last year catching their show, but the first time I got to hear Head Full of Doubt / Road Full of Promise...I feel obligated to share it here with you...that is only if you enjoy really fantastic music.

Penn State University: A Public Relations Perspective

     It has been nearly two weeks since the allegations levied against Penn State University first came flooding through televisions, Twitters, and smart phones across America. Two weeks of nauseating sexual abuse allegations, cover ups, student riots, firings, and just when it seems we’ve heard it all something new seems to pop its ugly head in a media firestorm. For two weeks we’ve been bombarded with the Penn State scandal and it is times like these in which Public Relations may just be more necessary than ever

     Unfortunately it is commonly misunderstood that Public Relations is a profession which people, companies and organizations use when they need to cover up their wrong doings and mistakes. Essentially to a great many people Public Relations is code for “clean up my mess!” That is not what Public Relations is or should be.

     With the luxury of hindsight it is simple to say that Penn State should have contacted local law enforcement, should have fired Coach Sandusky and banned him for life, should have, could have, would have – none of these happened and now a once prestigious university (it goes way beyond football) will have to suffer for years before their name can begin to shine brightly once again. While they may never re-achieve their once legendary status as one of America’s premier universities – with the help of Public Relations, Penn State University can climb back toward the top.

     Let us not forget that in 2006 three Lacrossee players at Duke University were falsely accused of raping an African American stripper. The university, faced with a rape and hate crime scandal was rightfully scared for their public image and reprecussions that may come. However the University jumped the gun, forcing head coach Mike Pressler to resign, ousting the three players, and disbanded the rest of the Duke Lacrossee season, depsite nothing more than accusations. Duke University faced Black Panther Protests, vandalism, threatening letters and hate mail, and more during a year long media bombardment. The three players were later found innocent, but the reputation and credibility of the University took a major hit. Although the years since have seen Duke restore itself back to national fame and reputation, it would not have been without possible with an administration admitting wrongdoing and apologizing, NCAA Championships in Mens basketball, and a refocused commitment to focus on student and faculty accomplishments. Duke has been able to restore their brand, and although three Lacrossee players wrongfully accused of rape is leaps and bounds less than a full blown univeristy sex scandal -- Penn State will be able to restore their brand one day.

Four steps toward recovery for Penn State University…

1) Take care of the next generation of abused children by reallocating a portion of the 88 million dollars raised by the football team every season. It is one thing to donate money to a charity in Penn State's name -- it's another to help educate the next generation of caretakers. Revamp the Psychology and Medical departments to put a focus on Children's psychology and Counselors for abused children. An influx of students coming to Penn State to study children's psychology would show the world, that Penn State is not only interested in helping out Sandusky's victims -- but all child victims. An influx in students and finances will help reboost the university.


2)  A new coaching era must begin in Penn State. Interim head coach Tom Bradley and his entire staff must go. A serious, responsible, accountable new head coach, with a new staff a must be found. Bradley has not been accused of any charges – but the man served under Joe Paterno for thirty years – guilty or not, his association with the legendary head coach is too much for the university to burden. Let’s not forget that there is still a Paterno on staff – son of Joe Pa, Jay is the quarterbacks coach. It is not the time, nor will it be any time soon, to have the ‘Paterno’ name in limelight.






Jerry Sandusky. Photo courtesy of SI

3)  Graciously accept the sanctions handed down by the NCAA. It is yet to be seen when the NCAA will convene and what they will do – but if the University of Southern California is not bowl eligible for 5 years because of the Reggie Bush scandal, and Ohio State faced heavy punishments for some free shoes and tattoos – we will most likely see an unprecedented probation in University Park, Pennsylvania. Use those years to rebuild your University’s reputation, create an abused children foundation, reach out to the community, and not just focus on reestablishing the football program.

4) Rewrite the mission statement. The current Penn State mission statement is four elongated sentences totaling 157 words in length. This needs to be changed to read, “to protect and help our students grow intellectually and become positive contributing members to society” OR “To protect, educate, and assist the youth and future of America, today” OR “To ensure the highest levels of education, protection, and opportunities to succeed in and beyond the classroom.”

 A new mission statement must mention it is their GOAL to protect our youth. Regardless of the wording, it is pivotal that Penn State shows us all they understand where they failed, and what is truly important; providing an environment that ensures safety and all educational opportunities to succeed.

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     Journalist Robert Brault once said, “One of life's regrets is that you didn't always tell the truth, and now it's too late, because the truth has changed.” Penn State University had their chance in 1998, and again in 2002 to confront this uncomfortable truth but they failed miserably and now they must pay the price that comes with their unfortunate lack of judgment. Remember that telling the truth, confronting an uncomfortable reality, and doing what is right – will always be better than covering up a lie – no matter the severity.