The 2019 NFL season is almost underway, and as I do every year, I talk about my Seahawks. The Seahawks go into 2019 after coming off a season in which they made the playoffs but failed to win a playoff game. That's the first time in the Russell Wilson era that after making the playoffs the Hawks failed to win a playoff game. I will go game by game predicting the outcome as I always do. This time, however, I am going to do something new. At the end, I'm going to go position by position and compare 2019's starters to 2018's. This will show how much the team has improved or regressed from last year, and should hold up to my comparison for the Hawks Win/Loss record. Here we go!
Week 1 vs. Cincinnati Bengals: Win 24-13 (1-0)
First off, if there is any game that you can pencil in as a victory on the Hawk's schedule, it is this one. The Bengals are expected to be one of the worst teams in the AFC and will be without their star wide receiver (and perhaps best player) in A.J. Green. Now the reason this isn't more of a blowout is because the Seahawks usually get off to a slow start offensively when the season begins. But the defense should shine.
Week 2 at Pittsburgh Steelers: Loss, 28-20 (1-1)
The Hawks have never scored a single point at Heinz Field... ever. Since the stadium opened in 2001, the Hawks have played two games there and were shut out both times. I think it's a safe bet to say the Hawks score in this one. However, I still think the Hawks remain winless there and fall in a fairly close one. The Hawks almost always lose to an AFC team every year, and this will be the one AFC loss this year.
Week 3 vs. New Orleans Saints: Win, 31-21 (2-1)
The Hawks have always played the Saints well at Century Link Field, and it remains that way. I also expect a bit of a down season from the Saints so that should help the Hawks' chances. I think it'll be a close game til late when Chris Carson pulls off Beastquake 2.0 (or 3.0?) and gives the Hawks a two-score lead for good.
Week 4 at Arizona Cardinals: Loss, 24-23 (2-2)
I hate playing in Arizona. That field has given our players so many injuries. Arizona, even though they haven't been that great in recent years, has always been a thorn in our side and will continue to be. The Hawks barely lose to a Cardinals team they probably should've beaten, and Kyler Murray gets his first signature win in the NFL.
Week 5 vs. Los Angeles Rams: Win, 35-31 (3-2)
We need to beat the Rams at home and by golly we will. Having the short week can be both a positive and negative but it works in the Hawks favor this time, as well as having the 12th Man for a prime time game. Russ goes off and the Hawks avoid having a losing record five weeks in.
Week 6 at Cleveland Browns: Win, 27-16 (4-2)
It almost isn't fair this week. The Hawks come off 10 days rest having last played two Thursdays ago. Meanwhile, the Browns come off of only 6 days rest thanks to playing on Monday Night Football the previous week. The Hawks use that to their advantage and beat the Brownies. We see OBJ yell at someone on the sidelines (probably Mayfield). Could this be the start of the Browns demise? If it's at the hands of the Seahawks, I wouldn't mind that at all.
Week 7 vs. Baltimore Ravens: Win, 22-17 (5-2)
In the Earl Thomas revenge game, the Hawks do indeed get revenge. Earl doesn't even factor into the game much and the Hawks take care of the Ravens. Lamar Jackson struggles throwing the ball and has to resort to screens and running the ball himself. And in a game where both teams are known for running more than passing, that's exactly what we get. We don't see a ton of punts or possessions thanks to all the running causing the clock to keep going.
Week 8 at Atlanta Falcons: Loss, 30-26 (5-3)
Alas, the Hawks three game winning streak comes to an end. The Hawks hang with the Falcons for most of the game, but the Falcons get the ball down 26-23, and while a FG does tie it, they go for the win and get a go ahead score, and the Hawks are unable to match it. I predict the Falcons to be a better team in 2019, so if that is the case, this will be a very tough game to win. Doable, but tough.
Week 9 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Win, 28-19 (6-3)
In a game that'll probably feature a Gay (TB) and a Dickson (SEA), we see a mostly uneventful game. The Hawks offense does just enough and Tampa Bay makes too many mistakes. Perhaps this is the game Jameis gets benched during. Or perhaps he's already been benched.
Week 10 at San Francisco 49ers: Loss, 30-28 (6-4)
Even more than losing to the Cardinals, I hate losing to the 49ers. Last year the 49ers won a game the Hawks definitely should've won, and we see the same thing again this year. The 49ers win thanks to a controversial official ruling that leaves Hawks fans steaming.
Week 11 BYE
Week 12 at Philadelphia Eagles: Loss, 34-24 (6-5)
The Eagles hand the Hawks their most lopsided loss of 2019. The Hawks compete and are in it in the 4th quarter down just 27-24, but a late pick-six thrown by Russ seals the game for the Eagles. The Hawks go into Week 13 worrying about their playoff hopes.
Week 13 vs. Minnesota Vikings: Win, 17-14 (7-5)
In a tough, defensive battle, the Hawks come out on top barely. This is the lone Monday night game, and I feel like we usually have one of our primetime games being a low-scoring tight game. This will be it in 2019. Jason Myers kicks a game winning field goal to put the Hawks at 7-5.
Week 14 at Los Angeles Rams: Loss, 29-20 (7-6)
In the final game the Hawks ever play at the Coliseum, the Hawks still cannot win there (again). In a game needed by both teams the Rams come out on top and pretty much clinch the NFC West with this victory.
Week 15 at Carolina Panthers: Win, 23-16 (8-6)
The Hawks have done well at Bank of America stadium, excluding that one playoff game... grr... This time is no different as the Hawks win a semi-low scoring game. The Panthers leave wondering what they have to do to beat the Hawks at home in the regular season.
Week 16 vs. Arizona Cardinals: Win, 34-14 (9-6)
In what may end up being the most pivotal game for the Hawks this season, they easily take care of the Cardinals to better their playoff chances. Russ goes off for close to 400 yards and the defense stymies Murray for the most part.
Week 17 vs. San Francisco 49ers: Win, 28-21 (10-6)
I'm not gonna lie, this game could determine which of these teams makes the playoffs. If my NFL predictions end up being what they are, that means going into this game the Hawks would be 9-6 and the 49ers 8-7. A victory for the 49ers would give them the tiebreaker over the Hawks because they would've beaten them twice. But the Hawks take care of business and secure a playoff spot for the seventh time in eight years.
Well, you know how the Hawks do if you read the other post. If not, I'll spoil it here. The Hawks win in the wild card round at Philly and get revenge for that week 12 loss, but then lose in the divisional round to the Rams. I know, I hate it. But I'm going for accuracy, not what I want. But the Hawks can again use this season to build off of to try to improve for 2020.
And now, to compare the position groups from last year to this year. If most of the players remain the same, I give it an even or a "push". I also will use small improvements and small regressions vs. big improvements and big regressions. Big results have an effect of 2 points, and small 1.
QB: Push
The only difference being the backup. We go from Hundley to either Smith or Lynch. Either way, they're not expected to see any significant time. Easy push.
RB: Push
We lost Mike Davis, so why the push? Rashaad Penny is going into his second year and I think he'll be even better than last year. Plus, Davis was not a featured back. Whoever our 3rd guy is shouldn't be much of a drop off, if at all.
WR: Small regression (-1, Score: -1)
Losing a leader in Baldwin hurts. I'll admit that. But we drafted three different wide receivers, one of whom in D.K. Metcalf could be a star. Because of the lack of experience I say a small regression.
TE: Push
Yet another push. We get Dissly back from injury so if he can stay healthy that'll be a bonus. Also added Jacob Hollister. But it's not a significant enough of an improvement.
OL: Small improvement (+1, Score: 0)
It's not that I didn't like Sweezy, but he just struggled at times last year, especially for a veteran. I like Mike Iupati, and for the first time in a while I can say our line should be very solid from left to right. Ifedi hopefully will keep making strides. The main key, as with any offensive line, is staying healthy. If they can stay healthy, they'll be a top 10 line for sure.
DL: Big regression (-2, Score: -2)
Frank Clark is not easily replaced. I hate that we had to trade him, but it made sense. His "replacement" in L.J. Collier just got hurt and might get off to a slow start thanks to missing training camp/preseason. On top of that, we lost our best nose tackle Jarran Reed six games to suspension. We're relying on guys like Green and Martin and Ford, and hopefully at least one can step up.
LB: Small improvement (+1, Score: -1)
We have a 99 overall player according to Madden in our linebacking crew. That's awesome. K.J. and Kendricks should solidify the outsides. But the reason for improvement is the depth added by drafting Cody Barton and Ben Burr-Kirven. I think Barton at least is a stud. I don't recall having such great depth like this at the linebacking position ever.
DB: Small improvement (+1, Score: 0)
Shaquill Griffin is determined to rebound from a mediocre at best 2018 performance. He was constantly rated towards the bottom of cornerbacks by Pro Football Focus. But that's not the reason for improvement. Drafting Blair and Abadi should add depth we need. I think we'll see improvements from both Flowers and Thompson, and let's not forget perhaps the most underrated safety in the NFL in Bradley McDougald. These guys should benefit from another year together.
Special Teams: Large improvement (+2, Score: 2)
Replacing Janikowski with Myers is reason for +1 points alone. If only we had just gone with Myers last year in training camp. Oh well, hindsight is 20/20. We also drafted a bunch of guys who will probably excel on special teams coverage like the aforementioned linebackers and Travis Homer. I really expect special teams to be one of the Hawks strengths in 2019.
So overall, I have the Hawks better by 2 points. I have them improved at 4 positions and worse at only 2. Yet I predicted the same record they had last year. In other words, I expect the Seahawks to go at least 10-6. Anything less for me would be a disappointment. Some say the Hawks have a difficult schedule. I think it's doable. I am not only hoping but predicting the two divisions (outside of their own) the Seahawks have to play (The NFC South and AFC North) aren't that strong. I am actually predicting a total of three winning teams between the two divisions.
Oh, and before I forget, I might as well predict who I think will lead the Seahawks in categories that aren't a given (Passing TD's for example is a given: Russ)
Rushing Yards: Carson
Rushing TD's: Penny
Receiving TD's: Dissly
Receiving Yards: Lockett
Receptions: Lockett
Tackles: Wagner
Sacks: Ansah
Interceptions: Griffin
Gum chewed: Pete Carroll
Pep Talks given to teammates: Wilson
Here's to a successful 2019 season and as always, GO HAWKS!!!
Showing posts with label Go. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Go. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
Saturday, April 27, 2019
My Thoughts on the Seahawks 2019 Draft
I haven't done one of these in a while: A review and recap of the Seahawks draft. The reason I'm doing it is because I'm pretty stoked about this draft class. I'll go through each of the picks and give them a letter grade. The letter grade will be based on when the Seahawks selected the player, and how well I think he fits our team. Let's go!
Round 1: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
Grade: C
The reason the grade is a C is because he was yet another first round reach for the Hawks. He could've been taken in the 2nd or maybe even 3rd round. Nevertheless, he's been described as a Michael Bennett-type D-lineman, able to move along the D-line wherever, depending on the down and distance. Bruce Irvin was also a first round reach and he didn't turn out half bad. If LJ is anywhere near Michael Bennett's capability, I'll call this a win. But for now, I stand pat with a C grade.
Round 2: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
Grade: C+
This was also called a reach. But Marquise has some upside, many see him as a Kam Chancellor-lite. He'll probably end up backing up McDougald for the time being and playing special teams. Hopefully he'll blossom and become a starter for years to come.
Round 2: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Grade: B+
The first draft pick the Hawks made that I was legitimately excited for. He's a big-bodied and strong receiver like a Terrell Owens or Josh Gordon, but has speed that beats both of them. He has the potential to be an elite #1 receiver. However, he has injury concerns (who doesn't?) and he ran slower cone drills at the combine than Tom Brady. I kid you not. So he's not an agile receiver. But if the Hawks can use him effectively and he stays healthy, he's going to be an elite receiver.
Round 3: Cody Barton, LB, Utah
Grade: B
The Hawks drafted two defensive players from Utah in their first four picks, so Blair and Barton should be able to help each other out and pull for each other in training camp. Barton will be an excellent special teamer, but could he possibly start if need be? Time will tell.
Round 4: Gary Jennings Jr., WR, West Virginia
Grade: A-
I just found out Gary Jennings Jr. has known Russell Wilson since childhood as Russ coached him at the YMCA he went to. That's awesome. Russ will instantly have a rapport with this guy. Not only that, but Gary has very few if any glaring weaknesses and has less bust potential than Metcalf. If I had to pick who has the longer and more consistent career right now (between Metcalf and Jennings), I'd say Jennings.
Round 4: Phil Haynes, G, Wake Forest
Grade: B+
Solid pick who will most likely be groomed to play guard. With Iupati and Fluker as the current starters, it works out perfectly to have Haynes sit behind them and learn and take over in case of an injury. Keep in mind we still have Roos, Simmons, and Pocic. This is the first time in a while I can say I am happy with our O-Line depth.
Round 4: Ugo Amadi, S, Oregon
Grade: C+
He's a bit undersized, but will be used on special teams and in some nickel packages. Also... he's a Duck... Nevertheless, he's a decent mid-round selection, but my gut says I don't think we'll see him on the team in 3 years.
Round 5: Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
Grade: B-
Don't think we really needed to draft two middle linebackers, but it certainly doesn't hurt. And it's a local kid from UW! I'm excited to see who will do better between Barton and Burr-Kirven, both were Pac-12 middle linebackers. Good to have depth in case something happens to Bobby *knock on wood*.
Round 6: Travis Homer, RB, Miami
Grade: B+
This kid has the fight and tenacity that Schneider and Carroll love. He's an-all around back, too, can block, catch passes, can even play special teams. I would like to see him in the preseason get a bunch of carries to see how he does there. Could be a dark horse pick that gets some carries in the regular season (Think Phillip Lindsay of Denver last year).
Round 6: DeMarcus Christmas, DT, Florida State
Grade: C+
It's Christmas in Seattle! Literally. I'm going to be honest, it could be fairly tough for him to make the roster, but with Shamar Stephen gone there's a chance. He's like Poona Ford a bit, not quite as short though. I could see him backing up Ford and Reed when they need a breather on rushing downs.
Round 7: John Ursua, WR, Hawaii
Grade: C+
Good-looking kid, but he'll find it tough making the roster, even if Doug isn't able to play. Ahead of him are Lockett, Brown, Moore, and the two other Wide Receivers we drafted in Metcalf and Jennings. If he's able to excel on special teams, he could make the roster, but as a fairly-undersized wide receiver that'll be tough to do.
Overall GPA: 2.77 (+.5) = 3.27 or B+
I gave John and Pete an extra .5 because they started with only four picks (before trading Frank Clark) and ended up with 11. Wow. Just the way they were able to trade down and not lose much value was impressive. So I give their draft a B+ as a whole. They did well for the most part, but time will tell how well they did based on the careers of these young men. Hopefully this'll be a draft class like 2011 or 2012 where we can look back on it and say they hit it out of the park.
Round 1: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
Grade: C
The reason the grade is a C is because he was yet another first round reach for the Hawks. He could've been taken in the 2nd or maybe even 3rd round. Nevertheless, he's been described as a Michael Bennett-type D-lineman, able to move along the D-line wherever, depending on the down and distance. Bruce Irvin was also a first round reach and he didn't turn out half bad. If LJ is anywhere near Michael Bennett's capability, I'll call this a win. But for now, I stand pat with a C grade.
Round 2: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
Grade: C+
This was also called a reach. But Marquise has some upside, many see him as a Kam Chancellor-lite. He'll probably end up backing up McDougald for the time being and playing special teams. Hopefully he'll blossom and become a starter for years to come.
Round 2: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Grade: B+
The first draft pick the Hawks made that I was legitimately excited for. He's a big-bodied and strong receiver like a Terrell Owens or Josh Gordon, but has speed that beats both of them. He has the potential to be an elite #1 receiver. However, he has injury concerns (who doesn't?) and he ran slower cone drills at the combine than Tom Brady. I kid you not. So he's not an agile receiver. But if the Hawks can use him effectively and he stays healthy, he's going to be an elite receiver.
Round 3: Cody Barton, LB, Utah
Grade: B
The Hawks drafted two defensive players from Utah in their first four picks, so Blair and Barton should be able to help each other out and pull for each other in training camp. Barton will be an excellent special teamer, but could he possibly start if need be? Time will tell.
Round 4: Gary Jennings Jr., WR, West Virginia
Grade: A-
I just found out Gary Jennings Jr. has known Russell Wilson since childhood as Russ coached him at the YMCA he went to. That's awesome. Russ will instantly have a rapport with this guy. Not only that, but Gary has very few if any glaring weaknesses and has less bust potential than Metcalf. If I had to pick who has the longer and more consistent career right now (between Metcalf and Jennings), I'd say Jennings.
Round 4: Phil Haynes, G, Wake Forest
Grade: B+
Solid pick who will most likely be groomed to play guard. With Iupati and Fluker as the current starters, it works out perfectly to have Haynes sit behind them and learn and take over in case of an injury. Keep in mind we still have Roos, Simmons, and Pocic. This is the first time in a while I can say I am happy with our O-Line depth.
Round 4: Ugo Amadi, S, Oregon
Grade: C+
He's a bit undersized, but will be used on special teams and in some nickel packages. Also... he's a Duck... Nevertheless, he's a decent mid-round selection, but my gut says I don't think we'll see him on the team in 3 years.
Round 5: Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
Grade: B-
Don't think we really needed to draft two middle linebackers, but it certainly doesn't hurt. And it's a local kid from UW! I'm excited to see who will do better between Barton and Burr-Kirven, both were Pac-12 middle linebackers. Good to have depth in case something happens to Bobby *knock on wood*.
Round 6: Travis Homer, RB, Miami
Grade: B+
This kid has the fight and tenacity that Schneider and Carroll love. He's an-all around back, too, can block, catch passes, can even play special teams. I would like to see him in the preseason get a bunch of carries to see how he does there. Could be a dark horse pick that gets some carries in the regular season (Think Phillip Lindsay of Denver last year).
Round 6: DeMarcus Christmas, DT, Florida State
Grade: C+
It's Christmas in Seattle! Literally. I'm going to be honest, it could be fairly tough for him to make the roster, but with Shamar Stephen gone there's a chance. He's like Poona Ford a bit, not quite as short though. I could see him backing up Ford and Reed when they need a breather on rushing downs.
Round 7: John Ursua, WR, Hawaii
Grade: C+
Good-looking kid, but he'll find it tough making the roster, even if Doug isn't able to play. Ahead of him are Lockett, Brown, Moore, and the two other Wide Receivers we drafted in Metcalf and Jennings. If he's able to excel on special teams, he could make the roster, but as a fairly-undersized wide receiver that'll be tough to do.
Overall GPA: 2.77 (+.5) = 3.27 or B+
I gave John and Pete an extra .5 because they started with only four picks (before trading Frank Clark) and ended up with 11. Wow. Just the way they were able to trade down and not lose much value was impressive. So I give their draft a B+ as a whole. They did well for the most part, but time will tell how well they did based on the careers of these young men. Hopefully this'll be a draft class like 2011 or 2012 where we can look back on it and say they hit it out of the park.
Wednesday, March 13, 2019
I Believe the Mariners are Doing the Right Thing (Plus a Condensed Version of my 2019 MLB Predictions)
The Mariners head into the 2019 MLB season having gone through a lot of changes. Significant players gone are James Paxton, Mike Zunino, Jean Segura, Robinson Cano, Edwin Diaz, and Ben Gamel. And those are just the players who were traded. In exchange the Mariners received a mix of prospects and a couple veterans. And to be totally and completely honest, I think general manager Jerry Dipoto and the Mariners organization as a whole are doing the right thing. Even if the Mariners were going to win with the core of players above, they weren't going to go very far. They were decent, but not great. We need to strive for great to finally break this long playoff drought.
As Mariners fans, we've almost become numb to losing and disappointment. It's not expected, but it's never a surprise, either. Just like the rain we so often get in the Puget Sound area, it's never welcomed but always a reason for gloominess. So this 2019 season, the Mariners are not expected to do a ton of winning. And I am content with that. This is a transition year. Mostly, I'm excited to see how new faces do, and see how the youngsters do if and when they're called up from the minors.
So I thought it would be fun to make a team that may be the core of this roster some day. It might not look exactly like this, but it will be fun to see how close I come to getting it right.
C: Nazvaez/Trade Acquisition/Raleigh
1B: White/Healy
2B: Shed Long
SS: JP Crawford
3B: Seager/Trade Acquisition
OF: Some combination of Haniger, Smith, Kelenic, Rodriguez, Bishop, and Lewis.
SP: Sheffield, Kikuchi, Gonzalez, Carlson, Gilbert, FA/Trade
RP: Dunn, Festa, Mills, Rumbelow, Tuivailala, FA/Trade
The could be the roster come 2021 or so. We'll see. But having acquired a group of talented youngsters, I'm finally excited for the future of the Seattle Mariners.
So onto my predictions for 2019. As I'm not too excited for this baseball season as a whole, I'm just predicting the playoff teams and division winners. As for the Mariners, I'll predict their record to be 73-89. Just barely missing 90 losses.
AL Division Winners: Astros, Twins (you heard it here first), Yankees
Wild Cards: Red Sox and Indians
NL Division Winners: Dodgers, Cardinals, and Phillies
Wild Cards: Cubs and Nationals
Wild Card Winners: Red Sox and Cubs
AL Divisional Matchups:
Yankees vs. Red Sox (What a matchup!): Yankees win... The-e-e-e-e Yankees win!
Twins vs. Astros: Astros win
NL Divisional Matchups:
Dodgers vs. Cubs: Dodgers win
Phillies vs. Cardinals: Cardinals win
ALCS: Yankees beat Astros
NLCS: Dodgers beat Cardinals
World Series: Yankees in six games
So, there you have it, the Yankees winning the World Series. Just like old times. Good for James Paxton if that does indeed happen. As for the Mariners, they will play spoiler and knock the Athletics out of the Wild Card race in the final series of the season. :)
As Mariners fans, we've almost become numb to losing and disappointment. It's not expected, but it's never a surprise, either. Just like the rain we so often get in the Puget Sound area, it's never welcomed but always a reason for gloominess. So this 2019 season, the Mariners are not expected to do a ton of winning. And I am content with that. This is a transition year. Mostly, I'm excited to see how new faces do, and see how the youngsters do if and when they're called up from the minors.
So I thought it would be fun to make a team that may be the core of this roster some day. It might not look exactly like this, but it will be fun to see how close I come to getting it right.
C: Nazvaez/Trade Acquisition/Raleigh
1B: White/Healy
2B: Shed Long
SS: JP Crawford
3B: Seager/Trade Acquisition
OF: Some combination of Haniger, Smith, Kelenic, Rodriguez, Bishop, and Lewis.
SP: Sheffield, Kikuchi, Gonzalez, Carlson, Gilbert, FA/Trade
RP: Dunn, Festa, Mills, Rumbelow, Tuivailala, FA/Trade
The could be the roster come 2021 or so. We'll see. But having acquired a group of talented youngsters, I'm finally excited for the future of the Seattle Mariners.
So onto my predictions for 2019. As I'm not too excited for this baseball season as a whole, I'm just predicting the playoff teams and division winners. As for the Mariners, I'll predict their record to be 73-89. Just barely missing 90 losses.
AL Division Winners: Astros, Twins (you heard it here first), Yankees
Wild Cards: Red Sox and Indians
NL Division Winners: Dodgers, Cardinals, and Phillies
Wild Cards: Cubs and Nationals
Wild Card Winners: Red Sox and Cubs
AL Divisional Matchups:
Yankees vs. Red Sox (What a matchup!): Yankees win... The-e-e-e-e Yankees win!
Twins vs. Astros: Astros win
NL Divisional Matchups:
Dodgers vs. Cubs: Dodgers win
Phillies vs. Cardinals: Cardinals win
ALCS: Yankees beat Astros
NLCS: Dodgers beat Cardinals
World Series: Yankees in six games
So, there you have it, the Yankees winning the World Series. Just like old times. Good for James Paxton if that does indeed happen. As for the Mariners, they will play spoiler and knock the Athletics out of the Wild Card race in the final series of the season. :)
Monday, September 3, 2018
My Extensive 2018 NFL Predictions!
For me, it’s hard to believe, but the 2018 NFL season is almost here. It feels like just recently the Philadelphia
Eagles won their first Super Bowl. With
a new season brings optimism to every club.
Heck, even the Browns have reasons to be optimistic. I honestly cannot remember a season where
nearly every team had some reason to be hopeful, a reason to think their season
could be a success. And in doing these
predictions for the first time, I made sure all the team records add up to
256-256. It was not easy, I tell
you. I really wanted to say a lot of
teams would do well, but unfortunately for a lot of teams, their season ends in
disappointment because of injuries, bad chemistry, or lack of execution.
I have divided this up into FOUR parts. First part is Ten Surprising predictions. These are predictions I like to make each year that only have a small chance of happening in hindsight, but last year I got 4/10 right. The one I was most proud of getting was the Seahawks having a better road record than home record. I also got right that a well-respected coach got fired before season’s end, that every division winner would have a better record than every wild card team, and that the AFC South would have a wild card team.
The second part will be my predicted records for each NFL team. Again, I made sure that all team records add up to a total of 256-256. The third part is my predictions for each Seahawk’s game, and what I expect to happen in each one. And lastly, I will predict the NFL playoffs, predict my Super Bowl matchup and ultimate Super Bowl Champion, as well as hand out the end-of-the-year awards.
Firstly, though, is my ten surprising predictions for the 2018 season:
1. The San Francisco 49ers will NOT have the rousing success everyone thinks they will this year, and they will lose more than they win.
The 49ers are everyone’s dark horse team for 2018, but I don’t think they will be much, if it all better this year. One, I don’t think Jimmy Garoppolo is as good as everyone thinks. He was a second round and not a first round pick for a reason. He also is dating a porn star and has already signed his lucrative contract, so he doesn’t have too much more to play for. Also, aside from Richard Sherman, the 49ers didn’t add a whole lot in the offseason. I think expectations will be too high and they will go 7-9 at best.
Well, I was right. But it wasn't all because they weren't ready. Most blame could be pointed to the Jimmy Garoppolo season-ending injury. However, I was right, so that's one.
2. No team will lose 13 or more games in 2018
The Browns have been the worst team the last two seasons, but with most expecting them to improve greatly and win a handful of games, there may not be THAT bad of a team this year. I predict the worst team will go 4-12 in a very competitive league.
I was SOOO close on this one! Only one team lost 13 or more games, and it was the Arizona Cardinals, and they lost 13.
3. The team that finishes with the worst record (or tied for worst record) in 2018 will have had a winning record in 2017.
Speaking of the worst record in the NFL, I’m not going to say who (you’ll have to see below), but the team that finishes with the worst record (and thus gets the #1 overall pick) will be a team that had a winning record in 2017. That is always a surprise to see. It doesn’t have to be the team I picked for this to be right, just a team that had a winning record in the 2017 season.
Again, SO CLOSE. The Cardinals, who had the worst record in 2018, went 8-8 in 2017. Figures.
4. The AFC representative in the Super Bowl won’t be the Patriots. Or the Steelers. In fact, it will be a team who hasn’t made it to the Super Bowl this millennium.
I think the AFC is due for a new Super Bowl contender. They haven’t had a team represent their conference minus Peyton Manning and Tom Brady since the Ravens made it in 2012. And they haven’t had a team win the Super Bowl that hadn’t already this millennium since the Colts in 2007.
Welp. I may have predicted the Patriots demise too early. For a while my prediction looked good as the Kansas City Chiefs would've made this prediction correct, but they came up so close in the AFC Championship.
5. The Seahawks AGAIN finish with a better road record than home record
I can make the same prediction two years in a row, can’t I? It’s my predictions. Just looking at the Seahawks schedule, I’ve noticed most of their tough non-divisional opponents (Dallas, GB, Minnesota, Kansas City) are at home while they face their easier divisional counterparts on the road (Oakland, Denver, Detroit, Chicago). It would be surprising for this anomaly to happen two years in a row for the Seahawks, but I think it will indeed happen again.
Not this time. The Seahawks lost winnable road games (San Francisco, Denver) and won some home games against decent opponents (Minnesota, Kansas City, Green Bay).
6. Neither team in the Super Bowl will have multiple Super Bowl wins
I think we’re going to see a Super Bowl with semi-inexperienced teams. There are plenty of teams with one or no Super Bowl titles (20 to be exact), but it’s not too likely that both Super Bowl participants will be like that. So that means no Patriots, no Steelers, no Packers.
If it was any matchup from the conference championship games OTHER than the Patriots, this would have been correct. The Rams, Saints, and Chiefs all have one Championship. Damn Patriots.
7. Among QB’s in their rookie or sophomore seasons, Mitch Trubisky will have the best (or tied for best) record
There are a lot of new and young faces at QB in the NFL. There were five rookie QB’s taken in the first round of this year’s draft, plus Mahomes in KC and Trubisky in Chicago will be playing their first full seasons. I expect Trubisky among all of those QB’s to have the best record as a starter or tied for the best.
Second one correct! He tied with Mahomes of the Chiefs for best record among first or second year QB's. I didn't foresee Mahomes's success but I saw the Bears making a run.
8. The AFC will have multiple divisions with only one team with a winning record.
Anyone paying attention to the NFL the past few years may have noticed most of the talent resides in the NFC. The NFC has more talented QB’s and better defenses. Therefore, I think there will be a couple divisions in the AFC with only one winning team. There will be a lot of sub-par AFC teams.
Only one division, I'm afraid. The AFC East only had one. The next closest was the AFC North, where the Steelers were second best at 9-6-1.
9. The Offensive Rookie of the Year won’t be one of the five QB’s drafted in the first round. It won’t even be Saquon Barkley.
I’m not positive on who it is, but I don’t see any of the first-round QB’s having rousing success in their first season (at least not enough to win Offensive ROY). I also don’t see a ton of success for Saquon Barkley, the first running back drafted. It will either be a QB drafted in the 2nd round or later, a different running back, or a different position altogether. Usually the OROY is a top QB chosen or the best running back, but it won’t be this year.
It was Saquon Barkley. I knew I was going out on a limb. The runner up was Baker Mayfield and he wouldn't have made my prediction correct, either.
10. No team will win more than 12 games, and there won’t be more than one team per conference with 12 wins.
There is a ton of parity in the NFL (especially the NFC), and I expect a lot of competitiveness, few blowouts, and a lot of upsets in the league this season. Therefore, there won’t be a team that runs away with its conference, and the most any team will win is 12 games, and there won’t even be two teams that do that in a conference. Maybe one per.
Oops. The Saints AND Rams both won 13, and they are both in the NFC. The Chiefs also won 12 in the AFC. Oh wells.
So after those ten bold predictions, you might have some idea as to how the divisions and records shape up. Here we go, with some comments on each division:
* = Wild Card
AFC EAST
1. Patriots: 10-6
2. Jets: 8-8
3. Dolphins: 6-10
4. Bills: 5-11
Comment: The Patriots have a rebuilt offensive line and very inexperienced receivers, so they’ll take a minor step back more than likely. But in a weak division, they’ll recapture the AFC East crown barring major injuries. The Jets should be competitive even though they are starting a 21-year-old rookie in Sam Darnold. The Fins, however, keep losing stars and Tannehill has a huge uphill climb to make coming back from injury. The Bills have decided to start Nathan Peterman Week 1, and there’s little chance that goes well.
AFC NORTH
1. Steelers: 12-4
2. Ravens: 8-8
3. Browns: 6-10
4. Bengals: 5-11
Comment: The Steelers beat up on their division, which frankly, I don’t see much competitiveness in outside of the Steel City. The Ravens do OK but may not play well enough for their head coach to keep his job. The Browns get off to a decent start and hover around .500 but suffer many losses in late November and December. The Bengals crash and burn, not being able to play complete and disciplined football.
AFC SOUTH
1. Houston Texans: 10-6
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: 10-6*
3. Indianapolis Colts: 9-7*
4. Tennessee Titans: 4-12
Comment: This should be one of the more competitive divisions in football and in my opinion, one of the most entertaining. The Texans get Watson back and he’ll be out to prove he’s no fluke. The Jags are out to prove last year was not a fluke themselves, and they should still be hungry after last year’s AFC Championship loss. The Colts get Luck on their side and become more competitive, but Luck will take some time readjusting to NFL game speed. The Titans have some new cool uni’s and a new coach, but I don’t like Derrick Henry as the sole featured back, and I have a bad feeling last year isn’t a fluke for Mariota and it will constantly be lingering in the back of his mind.
AFC WEST
1. Los Angeles Chargers: 11-5
2. Kansas City Chiefs: 9-7
3. Oakland Raiders: 6-10
4. Denver Broncos: 6-10
Comment: The Chargers boast one of the best all-around rosters in the NFL and had a great offseason. The Chiefs still have a great roster themselves, but made a major QB change, and with Mahomes in his first season as a starter, they will have some hiccups along the way. The Raiders will compete but their defense and run game will struggle at times; Beast Mode will show his age. The Broncos will realize Case Keenum was a one-year wonder and must go in search of their future franchise signal caller.
NFC EAST
1. Dallas Cowboys: 10-6
2. Philadelphia Eagles: 8-8
3. Washington Redskins: 7-9
4. New York Giants: 6-10
Comment: The Cowboys play well and capitalize by winning a lot of games in-division. The Eagles, who struggled in the preseason, have a letdown season and Carson Wentz has a setback with his injury. They also struggle with too many players with big egos, such as Michael Bennett. The Skins will do moderately well with Alex Smith at QB, but struggle against the better NFC teams. The G-Men will realize Eli Manning needs to be replaced sooner rather than later.
NFC NORTH
1. Green Bay Packers: 10-6
2. Minnesota Vikings: 10-6*
3. Chicago Bears: 9-7
4. Detroit Lions: 6-10
Comment: The Vikings and Packers should be in a battle all season long for the NFC North crown, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the lead changed in the last couple weeks. Aaron Rodgers, fresh off signing the largest contract in NFL history, leads the Pack and has an MVP type season. The Vikings just have too much talent to not win a bunch of games. The Bears and their new pass rusher Khalil Mack have a breakthrough season, but still ultimately miss the playoffs, but are optimistic going into 2019. The Lions become the odd man out in the division, as former Belichick assistants don’t tend to do well as head coaches (See Josh McDaniels, Romeo Crennel).
NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints: 12-4
2. Atlanta Falcons: 10-6*
3. Carolina Panthers: 7-9
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 4-12
Comment: The Saints, perhaps more than anyone, should be seething after how last season ended, so I expect them to play their hearts out. The Falcons still have a good roster all around, and many expect them to make a playoff run again. The Panthers, however, don’t have a real reliable running back, and a defense that is slowly losing pieces, and they usually don’t have back-to-back playoff seasons, and I still don’t expect them to. The Bucs aren’t going to have Jameis Winston for their first four games, and even when he gets back they won’t be much better.
NFC WEST
1. Los Angeles Rams: 11-5
2. Seattle Seahawks: ????
3. San Francisco 49ers: 7-9
4. Arizona Cardinals: 6-10
Comment: The Rams may have acquired some headache players like Suh and Marcus Peters but have too much talent to not win the division. As for the Seahawks, you’ll have to wait until my game-by-game predictions for them below. You know they’ll do at least 7-9 but no better than 11-5, based on their positioning above. The 49ers won’t be as good as many people think because teams that are this hyped usually don’t live up to the hype, and they have a QB, roster, and coach that haven’t proven anything yet. The Cardinals should compete, regardless of their quarterback, but their talent just doesn’t match up to most teams in the NFC.
So there you have it for the regular season! Now on to the Seahawks game by game predictions. How will they do? Find out below.
I’m not doing scores, because there’s a very very slim chance they’ll end up correct.
At Denver Broncos: Win (1-0)
The Hawks come out fighting. The Broncos show they’re not quite there and Case Keenum struggles at times. The last time the Hawks won in Denver, it was 2006. So they are due.
At Bears: Loss (1-1)
I originally had this game as a win, but I changed it after the Bears traded for Khalil Mack. I don’t think the Hawks will have too much success against him and the resurgent Bears D. It’ll be a close and tough defeat. Possibly low-scoring as well.
Vs. Cowboys: Loss (1-2)
The 12th Man can’t help the Hawks overcome the Cowboys in their home opener. The defense has trouble containing Ezekiel Elliott and the running game never gets going against Dallas’ tough front seven, leaving fans worrying about how bad this season will end up being.
At Cardinals: Win (2-2)
Hard to say which QB will start this game for the Cards, but I don’t think it matters too much. Again, could be a low-scoring game.
Vs. Rams: Loss (2-3)
The Hawks start the year with two straight home losses, and people start to wonder if the 12th Man is losing its touch. The Hawks go into this game seeking revenge for last year’s embarrassment at home, and while they do succeed in making it a closer game, still ultimately end up falling.
At Raiders in London: Win (3-3)
First game outside of North America for the Seahawks results in a W. Seahawks fans show up in droves as there appears to be many members of the 12th Man in the UK.
At Lions: Win (4-3)
The Hawks, well-rested after their bye, air it out in a shootout against Detroit and come out on top. Matt Patricia and Pete Carroll, two defensive coaches, end up wishing their D’s had done better.
Vs. Chargers: Win (5-3)
This will be a tough matchup, but the Hawks will have gone into November without a home win. They won’t allow it to continue. This will be like the Texans game last year: close, exciting, and the Hawks come out on top at home.
At Rams: Loss (5-4)
The Hawks fail to get 3 games above .500. They always play the Rams tough in L.A., and after last year’s lucky win I don’t think luck is in their favor this time, as the Rams end up sweeping the Hawks in 2018.
vs. Packers: Loss (5-5)
Aaron Rodgers has too many bad memories at Century Link. The Fail Mary game where he got sacked at least a half dozen times. The loss in the NFC Championship game. He’ll be out to rid himself of those demons. The Hawks fall to 1-3 at home.
at Panthers: Win (6-5)
There was a period near the beginning of the Seahawks renaissance where the Hawks beat the Panthers three straight years, all games in Carolina. I think they recapture some of that old magic and win. I also expect the Panthers to disappoint in 2018.
vs. 49ers: Win (7-5)
This should be a loud and exciting game that I see the Hawks winning in close and dramatic fashion. Like I said earlier, I don’t expect the 49ers to be as good as a lot of people think.
vs. Vikings: Loss (7-6)
This might be the most important game on the Seahawks schedule, based on its position in the schedule and who they’re playing. But the Hawks offense does not get much going against the stout Vikings defense, and Janikowski misses a late field goal.
At 49ers: Loss (7-7)
This proves to be a devastating loss towards the Seahawks playoff hopes. But they can’t stop Jimmy Garoppolo this time. Not in Santa Clara.
vs. Chiefs: Loss (7-8)
Another devastating loss. Pat Mahomes airs it out and the Chiefs rack up points on a tired and weary Hawks defense. This knocks the Hawks out of the playoff race for the second straight year.
vs. Cardinals: Win (8-8)
In what is now a meaningless game, the Hawks come out on top. They provide some hope for next season, knowing they must fill holes on D and on the offensive line.
So the Seahawks finish 8-8, no playoffs for the 2nd straight year. A three game losing streak in December ultimately does them in. The defense is not bad, but they are inconsistent. The running game and offensive line shows marginal improvement. Luck just won’t be on their side this year. But how does the rest of the NFL do in the playoffs? Let’s find out!
AFC Wild Card Round:
(6) Colts at (3) Patriots: Patriots win
This was a common playoff matchup in the 2000’s between Manning and Brady. Now it is Brady and Luck (again) and again Brady comes out on top. And yes, the Patriots do NOT get a first round BYE.
(5) Jaguars at (4) Texans: Jaguars win
I really like Deshaun Watson and the Texans, but they are not the most complete team in the AFC. The Jags defense torments Watson relentlessly and secure a trip to the divisional round.
NFC Wild Card Round:
(6) Falcons at (3) Cowboys: Cowboys win
The ‘Boys finally shake off their playoff woes and give fans of “America’s Team” reason to be optimistic. They win on a bad call by the refs (let’s face it, the NFL wants the Cowboys in as many high-profile games as possible).
(5) Vikings at (4) Packers: Packers win
It's always exciting when these two meet in the regular season. Add that it’s a playoff game and… woah. The Pack come out on top in the frigid temps of Green Bay as the Minnesota offense can’t get anything going, while the Green Bay offense does enough.
AFC DIVISIONAL ROUND:
(5) Jaguars at (1) Steelers: Steelers win
The Steelers win the rematch of last year’s AFC divisional matchup. They will want the game more, simply.
(3) Patriots at (2) Chargers: Chargers win
The Chargers win, with Phillip Rivers having no flashbacks to the 2000’s when they lost to the Patriots in the playoffs. The Patriots just won’t have as good of a roster. Coaching and strategy can only get you so far.
NFC DIVISIONAL ROUND:
(4) Packers at (1) Saints: Saints win
The Saints win a close and exciting game between two of the game’s best QB’s.
(3) Cowboys at (2) Rams: Cowboys win
In a battle of Hollywood’s team vs. America’s team, the ‘Boys come out on top because they play slightly more disciplined and hard-nose football. The Rams start to wonder what it will take to get their team to win a single playoff game.
AFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: (2) Chargers at (1) Steelers: Chargers win
Like I said earlier, the AFC will be represented by someone new. That will be the Chargers. They stun the Steelers fans who go home again disappointed.
NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: (3) Cowboys at (1) Saints: Saints win
In a battle of two underdog QB’s (Prescott vs. Brees), the wily veteran Brees comes out on top. The Saints crowd proves to be too much for the Cowboys. The Saints move on to their 2nd Super Bowl.
SUPER BOWL LIII: Chargers vs. Saints: Saints win, 37-34
In a Super Bowl matchup of two bad-luck franchises and two QB’s who used to be teammates, Brees comes out on top. This ends up being one of the most entertaining Super Bowls, with a late score or defensive stop in the final seconds. Your 2018 and Super Bowl LIII champions are the New Orleans Saints!
Finally, some awards to hand out:
NFL MVP: Drew Brees (finally!), Saints
Offensive Player of the Year: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
Defensive Player of the Year: Joey Bosa, Chargers
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Calvin Ridley, Falcons
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Derwin James, Chargers
Coach of the Year: Anthony Lynn, Chargers
Comeback Player of the Year: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
Thanks for reading all the way through if you did! I’m very excited for this upcoming season, even if I didn’t predict my Seahawks to make the playoffs. They still have the potential to surprise a lot of people and prove me wrong by making the playoffs for the 6th time in 7 seasons. Here’s to an awesome 2018 NFL season!
I have divided this up into FOUR parts. First part is Ten Surprising predictions. These are predictions I like to make each year that only have a small chance of happening in hindsight, but last year I got 4/10 right. The one I was most proud of getting was the Seahawks having a better road record than home record. I also got right that a well-respected coach got fired before season’s end, that every division winner would have a better record than every wild card team, and that the AFC South would have a wild card team.
The second part will be my predicted records for each NFL team. Again, I made sure that all team records add up to a total of 256-256. The third part is my predictions for each Seahawk’s game, and what I expect to happen in each one. And lastly, I will predict the NFL playoffs, predict my Super Bowl matchup and ultimate Super Bowl Champion, as well as hand out the end-of-the-year awards.
Firstly, though, is my ten surprising predictions for the 2018 season:
1. The San Francisco 49ers will NOT have the rousing success everyone thinks they will this year, and they will lose more than they win.
The 49ers are everyone’s dark horse team for 2018, but I don’t think they will be much, if it all better this year. One, I don’t think Jimmy Garoppolo is as good as everyone thinks. He was a second round and not a first round pick for a reason. He also is dating a porn star and has already signed his lucrative contract, so he doesn’t have too much more to play for. Also, aside from Richard Sherman, the 49ers didn’t add a whole lot in the offseason. I think expectations will be too high and they will go 7-9 at best.
Well, I was right. But it wasn't all because they weren't ready. Most blame could be pointed to the Jimmy Garoppolo season-ending injury. However, I was right, so that's one.
2. No team will lose 13 or more games in 2018
The Browns have been the worst team the last two seasons, but with most expecting them to improve greatly and win a handful of games, there may not be THAT bad of a team this year. I predict the worst team will go 4-12 in a very competitive league.
I was SOOO close on this one! Only one team lost 13 or more games, and it was the Arizona Cardinals, and they lost 13.
3. The team that finishes with the worst record (or tied for worst record) in 2018 will have had a winning record in 2017.
Speaking of the worst record in the NFL, I’m not going to say who (you’ll have to see below), but the team that finishes with the worst record (and thus gets the #1 overall pick) will be a team that had a winning record in 2017. That is always a surprise to see. It doesn’t have to be the team I picked for this to be right, just a team that had a winning record in the 2017 season.
Again, SO CLOSE. The Cardinals, who had the worst record in 2018, went 8-8 in 2017. Figures.
4. The AFC representative in the Super Bowl won’t be the Patriots. Or the Steelers. In fact, it will be a team who hasn’t made it to the Super Bowl this millennium.
I think the AFC is due for a new Super Bowl contender. They haven’t had a team represent their conference minus Peyton Manning and Tom Brady since the Ravens made it in 2012. And they haven’t had a team win the Super Bowl that hadn’t already this millennium since the Colts in 2007.
Welp. I may have predicted the Patriots demise too early. For a while my prediction looked good as the Kansas City Chiefs would've made this prediction correct, but they came up so close in the AFC Championship.
5. The Seahawks AGAIN finish with a better road record than home record
I can make the same prediction two years in a row, can’t I? It’s my predictions. Just looking at the Seahawks schedule, I’ve noticed most of their tough non-divisional opponents (Dallas, GB, Minnesota, Kansas City) are at home while they face their easier divisional counterparts on the road (Oakland, Denver, Detroit, Chicago). It would be surprising for this anomaly to happen two years in a row for the Seahawks, but I think it will indeed happen again.
Not this time. The Seahawks lost winnable road games (San Francisco, Denver) and won some home games against decent opponents (Minnesota, Kansas City, Green Bay).
6. Neither team in the Super Bowl will have multiple Super Bowl wins
I think we’re going to see a Super Bowl with semi-inexperienced teams. There are plenty of teams with one or no Super Bowl titles (20 to be exact), but it’s not too likely that both Super Bowl participants will be like that. So that means no Patriots, no Steelers, no Packers.
If it was any matchup from the conference championship games OTHER than the Patriots, this would have been correct. The Rams, Saints, and Chiefs all have one Championship. Damn Patriots.
7. Among QB’s in their rookie or sophomore seasons, Mitch Trubisky will have the best (or tied for best) record
There are a lot of new and young faces at QB in the NFL. There were five rookie QB’s taken in the first round of this year’s draft, plus Mahomes in KC and Trubisky in Chicago will be playing their first full seasons. I expect Trubisky among all of those QB’s to have the best record as a starter or tied for the best.
Second one correct! He tied with Mahomes of the Chiefs for best record among first or second year QB's. I didn't foresee Mahomes's success but I saw the Bears making a run.
8. The AFC will have multiple divisions with only one team with a winning record.
Anyone paying attention to the NFL the past few years may have noticed most of the talent resides in the NFC. The NFC has more talented QB’s and better defenses. Therefore, I think there will be a couple divisions in the AFC with only one winning team. There will be a lot of sub-par AFC teams.
Only one division, I'm afraid. The AFC East only had one. The next closest was the AFC North, where the Steelers were second best at 9-6-1.
9. The Offensive Rookie of the Year won’t be one of the five QB’s drafted in the first round. It won’t even be Saquon Barkley.
I’m not positive on who it is, but I don’t see any of the first-round QB’s having rousing success in their first season (at least not enough to win Offensive ROY). I also don’t see a ton of success for Saquon Barkley, the first running back drafted. It will either be a QB drafted in the 2nd round or later, a different running back, or a different position altogether. Usually the OROY is a top QB chosen or the best running back, but it won’t be this year.
It was Saquon Barkley. I knew I was going out on a limb. The runner up was Baker Mayfield and he wouldn't have made my prediction correct, either.
10. No team will win more than 12 games, and there won’t be more than one team per conference with 12 wins.
There is a ton of parity in the NFL (especially the NFC), and I expect a lot of competitiveness, few blowouts, and a lot of upsets in the league this season. Therefore, there won’t be a team that runs away with its conference, and the most any team will win is 12 games, and there won’t even be two teams that do that in a conference. Maybe one per.
Oops. The Saints AND Rams both won 13, and they are both in the NFC. The Chiefs also won 12 in the AFC. Oh wells.
So after those ten bold predictions, you might have some idea as to how the divisions and records shape up. Here we go, with some comments on each division:
* = Wild Card
AFC EAST
1. Patriots: 10-6
2. Jets: 8-8
3. Dolphins: 6-10
4. Bills: 5-11
Comment: The Patriots have a rebuilt offensive line and very inexperienced receivers, so they’ll take a minor step back more than likely. But in a weak division, they’ll recapture the AFC East crown barring major injuries. The Jets should be competitive even though they are starting a 21-year-old rookie in Sam Darnold. The Fins, however, keep losing stars and Tannehill has a huge uphill climb to make coming back from injury. The Bills have decided to start Nathan Peterman Week 1, and there’s little chance that goes well.
AFC NORTH
1. Steelers: 12-4
2. Ravens: 8-8
3. Browns: 6-10
4. Bengals: 5-11
Comment: The Steelers beat up on their division, which frankly, I don’t see much competitiveness in outside of the Steel City. The Ravens do OK but may not play well enough for their head coach to keep his job. The Browns get off to a decent start and hover around .500 but suffer many losses in late November and December. The Bengals crash and burn, not being able to play complete and disciplined football.
AFC SOUTH
1. Houston Texans: 10-6
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: 10-6*
3. Indianapolis Colts: 9-7*
4. Tennessee Titans: 4-12
Comment: This should be one of the more competitive divisions in football and in my opinion, one of the most entertaining. The Texans get Watson back and he’ll be out to prove he’s no fluke. The Jags are out to prove last year was not a fluke themselves, and they should still be hungry after last year’s AFC Championship loss. The Colts get Luck on their side and become more competitive, but Luck will take some time readjusting to NFL game speed. The Titans have some new cool uni’s and a new coach, but I don’t like Derrick Henry as the sole featured back, and I have a bad feeling last year isn’t a fluke for Mariota and it will constantly be lingering in the back of his mind.
AFC WEST
1. Los Angeles Chargers: 11-5
2. Kansas City Chiefs: 9-7
3. Oakland Raiders: 6-10
4. Denver Broncos: 6-10
Comment: The Chargers boast one of the best all-around rosters in the NFL and had a great offseason. The Chiefs still have a great roster themselves, but made a major QB change, and with Mahomes in his first season as a starter, they will have some hiccups along the way. The Raiders will compete but their defense and run game will struggle at times; Beast Mode will show his age. The Broncos will realize Case Keenum was a one-year wonder and must go in search of their future franchise signal caller.
NFC EAST
1. Dallas Cowboys: 10-6
2. Philadelphia Eagles: 8-8
3. Washington Redskins: 7-9
4. New York Giants: 6-10
Comment: The Cowboys play well and capitalize by winning a lot of games in-division. The Eagles, who struggled in the preseason, have a letdown season and Carson Wentz has a setback with his injury. They also struggle with too many players with big egos, such as Michael Bennett. The Skins will do moderately well with Alex Smith at QB, but struggle against the better NFC teams. The G-Men will realize Eli Manning needs to be replaced sooner rather than later.
NFC NORTH
1. Green Bay Packers: 10-6
2. Minnesota Vikings: 10-6*
3. Chicago Bears: 9-7
4. Detroit Lions: 6-10
Comment: The Vikings and Packers should be in a battle all season long for the NFC North crown, and I wouldn’t be surprised if the lead changed in the last couple weeks. Aaron Rodgers, fresh off signing the largest contract in NFL history, leads the Pack and has an MVP type season. The Vikings just have too much talent to not win a bunch of games. The Bears and their new pass rusher Khalil Mack have a breakthrough season, but still ultimately miss the playoffs, but are optimistic going into 2019. The Lions become the odd man out in the division, as former Belichick assistants don’t tend to do well as head coaches (See Josh McDaniels, Romeo Crennel).
NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints: 12-4
2. Atlanta Falcons: 10-6*
3. Carolina Panthers: 7-9
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 4-12
Comment: The Saints, perhaps more than anyone, should be seething after how last season ended, so I expect them to play their hearts out. The Falcons still have a good roster all around, and many expect them to make a playoff run again. The Panthers, however, don’t have a real reliable running back, and a defense that is slowly losing pieces, and they usually don’t have back-to-back playoff seasons, and I still don’t expect them to. The Bucs aren’t going to have Jameis Winston for their first four games, and even when he gets back they won’t be much better.
NFC WEST
1. Los Angeles Rams: 11-5
2. Seattle Seahawks: ????
3. San Francisco 49ers: 7-9
4. Arizona Cardinals: 6-10
Comment: The Rams may have acquired some headache players like Suh and Marcus Peters but have too much talent to not win the division. As for the Seahawks, you’ll have to wait until my game-by-game predictions for them below. You know they’ll do at least 7-9 but no better than 11-5, based on their positioning above. The 49ers won’t be as good as many people think because teams that are this hyped usually don’t live up to the hype, and they have a QB, roster, and coach that haven’t proven anything yet. The Cardinals should compete, regardless of their quarterback, but their talent just doesn’t match up to most teams in the NFC.
So there you have it for the regular season! Now on to the Seahawks game by game predictions. How will they do? Find out below.
I’m not doing scores, because there’s a very very slim chance they’ll end up correct.
At Denver Broncos: Win (1-0)
The Hawks come out fighting. The Broncos show they’re not quite there and Case Keenum struggles at times. The last time the Hawks won in Denver, it was 2006. So they are due.
At Bears: Loss (1-1)
I originally had this game as a win, but I changed it after the Bears traded for Khalil Mack. I don’t think the Hawks will have too much success against him and the resurgent Bears D. It’ll be a close and tough defeat. Possibly low-scoring as well.
Vs. Cowboys: Loss (1-2)
The 12th Man can’t help the Hawks overcome the Cowboys in their home opener. The defense has trouble containing Ezekiel Elliott and the running game never gets going against Dallas’ tough front seven, leaving fans worrying about how bad this season will end up being.
At Cardinals: Win (2-2)
Hard to say which QB will start this game for the Cards, but I don’t think it matters too much. Again, could be a low-scoring game.
Vs. Rams: Loss (2-3)
The Hawks start the year with two straight home losses, and people start to wonder if the 12th Man is losing its touch. The Hawks go into this game seeking revenge for last year’s embarrassment at home, and while they do succeed in making it a closer game, still ultimately end up falling.
At Raiders in London: Win (3-3)
First game outside of North America for the Seahawks results in a W. Seahawks fans show up in droves as there appears to be many members of the 12th Man in the UK.
At Lions: Win (4-3)
The Hawks, well-rested after their bye, air it out in a shootout against Detroit and come out on top. Matt Patricia and Pete Carroll, two defensive coaches, end up wishing their D’s had done better.
Vs. Chargers: Win (5-3)
This will be a tough matchup, but the Hawks will have gone into November without a home win. They won’t allow it to continue. This will be like the Texans game last year: close, exciting, and the Hawks come out on top at home.
At Rams: Loss (5-4)
The Hawks fail to get 3 games above .500. They always play the Rams tough in L.A., and after last year’s lucky win I don’t think luck is in their favor this time, as the Rams end up sweeping the Hawks in 2018.
vs. Packers: Loss (5-5)
Aaron Rodgers has too many bad memories at Century Link. The Fail Mary game where he got sacked at least a half dozen times. The loss in the NFC Championship game. He’ll be out to rid himself of those demons. The Hawks fall to 1-3 at home.
at Panthers: Win (6-5)
There was a period near the beginning of the Seahawks renaissance where the Hawks beat the Panthers three straight years, all games in Carolina. I think they recapture some of that old magic and win. I also expect the Panthers to disappoint in 2018.
vs. 49ers: Win (7-5)
This should be a loud and exciting game that I see the Hawks winning in close and dramatic fashion. Like I said earlier, I don’t expect the 49ers to be as good as a lot of people think.
vs. Vikings: Loss (7-6)
This might be the most important game on the Seahawks schedule, based on its position in the schedule and who they’re playing. But the Hawks offense does not get much going against the stout Vikings defense, and Janikowski misses a late field goal.
At 49ers: Loss (7-7)
This proves to be a devastating loss towards the Seahawks playoff hopes. But they can’t stop Jimmy Garoppolo this time. Not in Santa Clara.
vs. Chiefs: Loss (7-8)
Another devastating loss. Pat Mahomes airs it out and the Chiefs rack up points on a tired and weary Hawks defense. This knocks the Hawks out of the playoff race for the second straight year.
vs. Cardinals: Win (8-8)
In what is now a meaningless game, the Hawks come out on top. They provide some hope for next season, knowing they must fill holes on D and on the offensive line.
So the Seahawks finish 8-8, no playoffs for the 2nd straight year. A three game losing streak in December ultimately does them in. The defense is not bad, but they are inconsistent. The running game and offensive line shows marginal improvement. Luck just won’t be on their side this year. But how does the rest of the NFL do in the playoffs? Let’s find out!
AFC Wild Card Round:
(6) Colts at (3) Patriots: Patriots win
This was a common playoff matchup in the 2000’s between Manning and Brady. Now it is Brady and Luck (again) and again Brady comes out on top. And yes, the Patriots do NOT get a first round BYE.
(5) Jaguars at (4) Texans: Jaguars win
I really like Deshaun Watson and the Texans, but they are not the most complete team in the AFC. The Jags defense torments Watson relentlessly and secure a trip to the divisional round.
NFC Wild Card Round:
(6) Falcons at (3) Cowboys: Cowboys win
The ‘Boys finally shake off their playoff woes and give fans of “America’s Team” reason to be optimistic. They win on a bad call by the refs (let’s face it, the NFL wants the Cowboys in as many high-profile games as possible).
(5) Vikings at (4) Packers: Packers win
It's always exciting when these two meet in the regular season. Add that it’s a playoff game and… woah. The Pack come out on top in the frigid temps of Green Bay as the Minnesota offense can’t get anything going, while the Green Bay offense does enough.
AFC DIVISIONAL ROUND:
(5) Jaguars at (1) Steelers: Steelers win
The Steelers win the rematch of last year’s AFC divisional matchup. They will want the game more, simply.
(3) Patriots at (2) Chargers: Chargers win
The Chargers win, with Phillip Rivers having no flashbacks to the 2000’s when they lost to the Patriots in the playoffs. The Patriots just won’t have as good of a roster. Coaching and strategy can only get you so far.
NFC DIVISIONAL ROUND:
(4) Packers at (1) Saints: Saints win
The Saints win a close and exciting game between two of the game’s best QB’s.
(3) Cowboys at (2) Rams: Cowboys win
In a battle of Hollywood’s team vs. America’s team, the ‘Boys come out on top because they play slightly more disciplined and hard-nose football. The Rams start to wonder what it will take to get their team to win a single playoff game.
AFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: (2) Chargers at (1) Steelers: Chargers win
Like I said earlier, the AFC will be represented by someone new. That will be the Chargers. They stun the Steelers fans who go home again disappointed.
NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: (3) Cowboys at (1) Saints: Saints win
In a battle of two underdog QB’s (Prescott vs. Brees), the wily veteran Brees comes out on top. The Saints crowd proves to be too much for the Cowboys. The Saints move on to their 2nd Super Bowl.
SUPER BOWL LIII: Chargers vs. Saints: Saints win, 37-34
In a Super Bowl matchup of two bad-luck franchises and two QB’s who used to be teammates, Brees comes out on top. This ends up being one of the most entertaining Super Bowls, with a late score or defensive stop in the final seconds. Your 2018 and Super Bowl LIII champions are the New Orleans Saints!
Finally, some awards to hand out:
NFL MVP: Drew Brees (finally!), Saints
Offensive Player of the Year: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
Defensive Player of the Year: Joey Bosa, Chargers
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Calvin Ridley, Falcons
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Derwin James, Chargers
Coach of the Year: Anthony Lynn, Chargers
Comeback Player of the Year: Aaron Rodgers, Packers
Thanks for reading all the way through if you did! I’m very excited for this upcoming season, even if I didn’t predict my Seahawks to make the playoffs. They still have the potential to surprise a lot of people and prove me wrong by making the playoffs for the 6th time in 7 seasons. Here’s to an awesome 2018 NFL season!
Sunday, June 4, 2017
These 2017 Mariners May be a Team of Destiny
The 2017 Mariners just finished a series with the Tampa Bay Rays and not only swept them, but they pummeled them. The Mariners outscored the Rays 28-7 in the three game series. Despite how dominant the Mariners looked, they are still below .500 at 28-30. However, I believe this to be a team of destiny: a team that refuses to lose and will end a postseason drought.
The last time the Mariners had a playoff drought this long, it was to start their existence. Nineteen years it took to make the postseason, from their inception in 1977 to the magical year of 1995. I think this team has a big chance to compare well with that team of 1995. Here's what they have in common:
- Dominant left-hander to lead the pitching staff (1995: Johnson, 2017: Paxton)
- Sweet swinging left-handed hitter to hit 3rd with some pop (1995: Griffey, Jr., 2017: Cano)
- Arguably the game's best designated hitter (1995: Martinez, 2017: Cruz)
- A speedy outfielder that could steal a base at any time (1995: Coleman, 2017: Dyson)
- Infielder with a surprising amount of (clutch) power: (1995: Blowers, 2017: Motter)
The problem with the 2017 team is they haven't been able to get healthy. For a stretch in May 4 of the 5 projected starting pitchers were on the disabled list. Paxton has returned, with Felix next in line to return in a week, maybe two. Kuma and Smyly set to return near the All-Star break. Once this rotation is healthy, they will have an incredible amount of depth, thanks to guys like Christian Bergman, Sam Gaviglio, and Ariel Miranda getting experience.
There's no reason this team shouldn't go on a run. There is veteran leadership. Their is an influx of young talent. Let's not forget Mitch Haniger coming back fairly soon. Mike Zunino is finally tearing it up. They have a dynamic young closer that, when he has command, is virtually unhittable. A bullpen that is proving itself more and more, with guys like Pazos, Vincent, Zych, and Rzepczynski proving more than capable. There's speed in the outfield and veteran gold glove winners in the infield. What more do the Mariners need?
The key of course is staying healthy. Segura just went on the DL for the second time this year. But if the pitching staff can hold its own and the hitting can avoid any major slumps the rest of the year, this team has a real shot. The Astros are indeed going to be tough to catch. They currently stand at 41-16, best in the majors by FIVE GAMES. However, lest we not forget there is the AL Wild Card, and two spots up for grab there. The Mariners are only 2.5 games behind the 2nd wild card spot.
Yes, it's just the beginning of June and the Mariners are only 28-30, but what I've seen out of this club this season I haven't seen out of them since, well, 2001. Camaraderie. Emotion. Determination. A refuse to lose attitude. I hope to look back on this post come October and see that my gut feeling in June was right. This team just needs to beat teams, beat them soundly, and don't feel bad about it. You've missed the playoffs the last 15 seasons, it's your damn turn already. Mariners players, GET IT DONE. WHATEVER. IT. TAKES.
Well, the Mariners failed again to make the playoffs. They couldn't maintain any sort of winning streak or consistency all year. Perhaps if they upgrade their pitching they could make a run.
The last time the Mariners had a playoff drought this long, it was to start their existence. Nineteen years it took to make the postseason, from their inception in 1977 to the magical year of 1995. I think this team has a big chance to compare well with that team of 1995. Here's what they have in common:
- Dominant left-hander to lead the pitching staff (1995: Johnson, 2017: Paxton)
- Sweet swinging left-handed hitter to hit 3rd with some pop (1995: Griffey, Jr., 2017: Cano)
- Arguably the game's best designated hitter (1995: Martinez, 2017: Cruz)
- A speedy outfielder that could steal a base at any time (1995: Coleman, 2017: Dyson)
- Infielder with a surprising amount of (clutch) power: (1995: Blowers, 2017: Motter)
The problem with the 2017 team is they haven't been able to get healthy. For a stretch in May 4 of the 5 projected starting pitchers were on the disabled list. Paxton has returned, with Felix next in line to return in a week, maybe two. Kuma and Smyly set to return near the All-Star break. Once this rotation is healthy, they will have an incredible amount of depth, thanks to guys like Christian Bergman, Sam Gaviglio, and Ariel Miranda getting experience.
There's no reason this team shouldn't go on a run. There is veteran leadership. Their is an influx of young talent. Let's not forget Mitch Haniger coming back fairly soon. Mike Zunino is finally tearing it up. They have a dynamic young closer that, when he has command, is virtually unhittable. A bullpen that is proving itself more and more, with guys like Pazos, Vincent, Zych, and Rzepczynski proving more than capable. There's speed in the outfield and veteran gold glove winners in the infield. What more do the Mariners need?
The key of course is staying healthy. Segura just went on the DL for the second time this year. But if the pitching staff can hold its own and the hitting can avoid any major slumps the rest of the year, this team has a real shot. The Astros are indeed going to be tough to catch. They currently stand at 41-16, best in the majors by FIVE GAMES. However, lest we not forget there is the AL Wild Card, and two spots up for grab there. The Mariners are only 2.5 games behind the 2nd wild card spot.
Yes, it's just the beginning of June and the Mariners are only 28-30, but what I've seen out of this club this season I haven't seen out of them since, well, 2001. Camaraderie. Emotion. Determination. A refuse to lose attitude. I hope to look back on this post come October and see that my gut feeling in June was right. This team just needs to beat teams, beat them soundly, and don't feel bad about it. You've missed the playoffs the last 15 seasons, it's your damn turn already. Mariners players, GET IT DONE. WHATEVER. IT. TAKES.
Well, the Mariners failed again to make the playoffs. They couldn't maintain any sort of winning streak or consistency all year. Perhaps if they upgrade their pitching they could make a run.
Sunday, April 2, 2017
My Almost Too Late 2017 MLB and Mariners Predictions
Well the baseball season is underway, but not the Mariners regular season, so
technically I'm not too late for this.
Like every year, I will predict an order of finish for each division in
baseball, some end of season awards, and Mariners leaders in each
category.
NL EAST
1. Washington Nationals
2. New York Mets
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Miami Marlins
5. Philadelphia Phillies
Summary: The Nats are too loaded to not at least get 2nd, and if anyone in the Mets rotation struggles or gets hurt (like last year), it'll be hard for them to win the division. The Braves are a young team getting better and the Marlins aren't doing much. The Phillies still aren't making progress.
NL CENTRAL
1. Chicago Cubs
2. St. Louis Cardinals
3. Pittsburgh Pirates
4. Cincinnati Reds
5. Milwaukee Brewers
Summary: The Cubbies will get a playoff spot, no doubt. The Cards are almost always in it. The Buccos will compete but there's too much competition. It's a toss-up for last between the Brew Crew and the Reds.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. Arizona Diamondbacks
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres
Summary: I normally pick the Giants to win the division, but they're due for a down year, and if MadBum gets hurt they are in big trouble. The Dodgers are too talented to not compete for a playoff spot, and the Diamondbacks are a team on the rise. The Rockies will be a decent team and the Padres will probably finish in last.
AL EAST
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Toronto Blue Jays
3. Baltimore Orioles
4. New York Yankees
5. Tampa Bay Rays
Summary: The BoSox loaded up for a championship run, acquiring ace Chris Sale this offseason. The Blue Jays are a well-built team and will vie for a playoff spot again. The O's will be decent, but not great. The Yankees will have pitching issues. The Rays are relying on guys like Logan Morrison and Brad Miller still.
AL CENTRAL
1. Cleveland Indians
2. Kansas City Royals
3. Detroit Tigers
4. Chicago White Sox
5. Minnesota Twins
Summary: The Indians are built like the early 2000's Red Sox, who Terry Francona also managed, so they will be a very competitive team. The Royals still have a bunch of talent and might be motivated to win for the death of Yordano Ventura. The Tigers are aging and won't be able to play good enough D. The White Sox lost Sale and are a team without a leader. The Twins are still the Twins.
AL WEST
1. Texas Rangers
2. Houston Astros
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
5. Oakland Athletics
Summary: The Rangers are loaded and will be motivated by their heartbreaking opening round loss to the Jays last year. The 'Stros are still young and should play decent, if erratic, ball. The Mariners meanwhile, well, you'll have to read below. The Angels and A's will finish like last year.
NL Wild Cards: Cardinals and Mets
AL Wild Cards: Blue Jays and Royals
MLB PLAYOFFS:
Wild Cards: Cardinals over Mets, Blue Jays over Royals
NL Divisional Round:
Cardinals vs. Cubs: Cardinals win
Nationals vs. Dodgers: Dodgers win
AL Divisional Round:
Blue Jays vs. Red Sox: Red Sox win
Indians vs. Rangers: Indians win
League Championship round:
NL: Cardinals vs. Dodgers: Dodgers win
AL: Red Sox vs. Indians: Red Sox win
World Series:
Dodgers vs. Red Sox: Red Sox win in 6 games
Red Sox are 2017 World Series Champions. You heard it here first. The Cubs have a surprising first round exit to their bitter rivals, the Cardinals.
MLB Awards:
AL MVP: Mookie Betts, Red Sox
NL MVP: Corey Seager, Dodgers
AL Cy Young: Chris Sale, Red Sox
NL Cy Young: Noah Syndergaard, Mets
AL Rookie: Tyler O'Neill, Mariners
NL Rookie: Dansby Swanson, Braves
Comment: Betts and Seager signal a new wave of baseball. Sale and Syndergaard lead their staffs. O'Neill is a real long shot, but if he gets his shot early enough I could see him emerging. The Braves are a young team who will be propelled by their young SS Swanson.
SEATTLE MARINERS PREDICTIONS
Record: 79-81
Yep. for the 5th straight time, the Mariners follow up a winning season with a losing season, although not by much. The hitting will be fine for the most part, but the rotation is way too shaky. Felix may well be on the decline. Iwakuma is old and might be done. Paxton is inconsistent and injury-prone, and Smyly and Gallardo are barely legit starters. If multiple starters get hurt, the Mariners are in for a world of hurt. The bullpen is not much, if any, better. There's a bunch of no names and unprovens. Sure, Diaz is electrifying, but he struggled towards the end of last year. Let's not forget the World Baseball Classic, which Felix and Diaz pitched in, which might cause them to falter down the stretch.
However, there will be some bright spots this year. A no hitter from Smyly or Paxton? Seager gets another all-star nod? But if this team doesn't have a winning record this year, it might be time to start thinking if they're cursed. At least with a decent enough LOSING record Scott Servais should hold on to his job.
Mariners leaders:
AVG: Robinson Cano
HR: Nelson Cruz
RBI: Kyle Seager
SB: Jarrod Dyson
Wins: Smyly
Saves: Diaz
Mariners team "awards":
Unsung hero: Mitch Hanniger
MVP: Seager
Cy Young: Smyly
Rookie: Tyler O'Neill
Let-down: Zunino
Defensive star: Jarrod Dyson
Out of nowhere: Taylor Motter
Comment: Hanniger has been quoted by Edgar Martinez to be the one Mariner hitter who will surprise us most, so I'm listening to 'Gar. Seager will play all around fantastic baseball, hopefully getting off to a fast start. Smyly will benefit from great D, so long as he can stay healthy. Zunino hopefully will bring his average up a bit and his K's down, but I won't hold my breath. Dyson will have some highlight reel catches in the outfield. Motter will be an electric presence off the bench and be involved in some game-winning and crucial plays.
Let's hope I'm wrong and the M's qualify for their first playoff spot in 16 years. I would never be more happy to be proven wrong. All in all, a winning season would be considered successful because the M's haven't had back-to-back winning seasons since '02-'03. But the playoffs are the goal, even if it's a wild card spot. There's two of them, so the M's have to do their best to at least snag one of them. But an AL West championship isn't out of the question. Again, let's hope I'm wrong. I am just basing this on history, and feel like I am being optimistic for that. Go M's, and good luck in 2017!
NL EAST
1. Washington Nationals
2. New York Mets
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Miami Marlins
5. Philadelphia Phillies
Summary: The Nats are too loaded to not at least get 2nd, and if anyone in the Mets rotation struggles or gets hurt (like last year), it'll be hard for them to win the division. The Braves are a young team getting better and the Marlins aren't doing much. The Phillies still aren't making progress.
NL CENTRAL
1. Chicago Cubs
2. St. Louis Cardinals
3. Pittsburgh Pirates
4. Cincinnati Reds
5. Milwaukee Brewers
Summary: The Cubbies will get a playoff spot, no doubt. The Cards are almost always in it. The Buccos will compete but there's too much competition. It's a toss-up for last between the Brew Crew and the Reds.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. Arizona Diamondbacks
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres
Summary: I normally pick the Giants to win the division, but they're due for a down year, and if MadBum gets hurt they are in big trouble. The Dodgers are too talented to not compete for a playoff spot, and the Diamondbacks are a team on the rise. The Rockies will be a decent team and the Padres will probably finish in last.
AL EAST
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Toronto Blue Jays
3. Baltimore Orioles
4. New York Yankees
5. Tampa Bay Rays
Summary: The BoSox loaded up for a championship run, acquiring ace Chris Sale this offseason. The Blue Jays are a well-built team and will vie for a playoff spot again. The O's will be decent, but not great. The Yankees will have pitching issues. The Rays are relying on guys like Logan Morrison and Brad Miller still.
AL CENTRAL
1. Cleveland Indians
2. Kansas City Royals
3. Detroit Tigers
4. Chicago White Sox
5. Minnesota Twins
Summary: The Indians are built like the early 2000's Red Sox, who Terry Francona also managed, so they will be a very competitive team. The Royals still have a bunch of talent and might be motivated to win for the death of Yordano Ventura. The Tigers are aging and won't be able to play good enough D. The White Sox lost Sale and are a team without a leader. The Twins are still the Twins.
AL WEST
1. Texas Rangers
2. Houston Astros
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
5. Oakland Athletics
Summary: The Rangers are loaded and will be motivated by their heartbreaking opening round loss to the Jays last year. The 'Stros are still young and should play decent, if erratic, ball. The Mariners meanwhile, well, you'll have to read below. The Angels and A's will finish like last year.
NL Wild Cards: Cardinals and Mets
AL Wild Cards: Blue Jays and Royals
MLB PLAYOFFS:
Wild Cards: Cardinals over Mets, Blue Jays over Royals
NL Divisional Round:
Cardinals vs. Cubs: Cardinals win
Nationals vs. Dodgers: Dodgers win
AL Divisional Round:
Blue Jays vs. Red Sox: Red Sox win
Indians vs. Rangers: Indians win
League Championship round:
NL: Cardinals vs. Dodgers: Dodgers win
AL: Red Sox vs. Indians: Red Sox win
World Series:
Dodgers vs. Red Sox: Red Sox win in 6 games
Red Sox are 2017 World Series Champions. You heard it here first. The Cubs have a surprising first round exit to their bitter rivals, the Cardinals.
MLB Awards:
AL MVP: Mookie Betts, Red Sox
NL MVP: Corey Seager, Dodgers
AL Cy Young: Chris Sale, Red Sox
NL Cy Young: Noah Syndergaard, Mets
AL Rookie: Tyler O'Neill, Mariners
NL Rookie: Dansby Swanson, Braves
Comment: Betts and Seager signal a new wave of baseball. Sale and Syndergaard lead their staffs. O'Neill is a real long shot, but if he gets his shot early enough I could see him emerging. The Braves are a young team who will be propelled by their young SS Swanson.
SEATTLE MARINERS PREDICTIONS
Record: 79-81
Yep. for the 5th straight time, the Mariners follow up a winning season with a losing season, although not by much. The hitting will be fine for the most part, but the rotation is way too shaky. Felix may well be on the decline. Iwakuma is old and might be done. Paxton is inconsistent and injury-prone, and Smyly and Gallardo are barely legit starters. If multiple starters get hurt, the Mariners are in for a world of hurt. The bullpen is not much, if any, better. There's a bunch of no names and unprovens. Sure, Diaz is electrifying, but he struggled towards the end of last year. Let's not forget the World Baseball Classic, which Felix and Diaz pitched in, which might cause them to falter down the stretch.
However, there will be some bright spots this year. A no hitter from Smyly or Paxton? Seager gets another all-star nod? But if this team doesn't have a winning record this year, it might be time to start thinking if they're cursed. At least with a decent enough LOSING record Scott Servais should hold on to his job.
Mariners leaders:
AVG: Robinson Cano
HR: Nelson Cruz
RBI: Kyle Seager
SB: Jarrod Dyson
Wins: Smyly
Saves: Diaz
Mariners team "awards":
Unsung hero: Mitch Hanniger
MVP: Seager
Cy Young: Smyly
Rookie: Tyler O'Neill
Let-down: Zunino
Defensive star: Jarrod Dyson
Out of nowhere: Taylor Motter
Comment: Hanniger has been quoted by Edgar Martinez to be the one Mariner hitter who will surprise us most, so I'm listening to 'Gar. Seager will play all around fantastic baseball, hopefully getting off to a fast start. Smyly will benefit from great D, so long as he can stay healthy. Zunino hopefully will bring his average up a bit and his K's down, but I won't hold my breath. Dyson will have some highlight reel catches in the outfield. Motter will be an electric presence off the bench and be involved in some game-winning and crucial plays.
Let's hope I'm wrong and the M's qualify for their first playoff spot in 16 years. I would never be more happy to be proven wrong. All in all, a winning season would be considered successful because the M's haven't had back-to-back winning seasons since '02-'03. But the playoffs are the goal, even if it's a wild card spot. There's two of them, so the M's have to do their best to at least snag one of them. But an AL West championship isn't out of the question. Again, let's hope I'm wrong. I am just basing this on history, and feel like I am being optimistic for that. Go M's, and good luck in 2017!
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Seahawks Predictions (NFL Preview Part 2 of 3)
For the first time ever, the Seahawks return to play as
DEFENDING SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS. Boy does
that sound good to say. The Seahawks
open their season with tough opponents and finish with tough opponents, with a
relatively easy middle part of their schedule.
How do I see them doing in each game?
Let's find out. I'll go game by
game, predicting the score for each contest.
Let's get to it!
Week 1 - Vs. Green Bay Packers: Win, 24-21
Hawks Record: 1-0
Opening night of the season, the Hawks fall behind early due to jitters and excitement and trail at the half 14-10. But in the 2nd half the defense steps up and the Seahawks score two unanswered touchdowns to make it 24-14. The Packers score in the 4th to make it close, and they are able to get the ball back, but the D stops them. Should be close and hard fought, I don't see them possibly scoring more than the combined 45 points I predicted.
Week 2 - At San Diego Chargers: Win, 28-13
Hawks Record: 2-0
San Diego was a playoff team a year ago, so this won't be too easy of a contest... you'd think. But Philip Rivers will struggle against the LoB, not having seen them at their current playing ability. Expect the D to make some big plays (turnovers, sacks) and the offense to only be ordinary at best in this one, which should be plenty enough.
Week 3 - Vs. Denver Broncos: Win, 31-24
Hawks Record: 3-0
In the rematch of Super Bowl XLVIII, the Hawks again get the upper hand and win. Peyton Manning will struggle at first with the noise but will eventually settle down. Broncos will get stopped on a last minute try to tie the game.
Week 5 - At Washington Redskins: Win, 28-10
Hawks Record: 4-0
The Seahawks are even better than the 2012 team that made the playoffs, but the same cannot be said for the team from Washington. Predicting easy wins on the first two road games is risky, I'll admit, but the team will be well rested after a Bye Week and should be hungry in this one to keep things going.
Week 6 - Vs. Dallas Cowboys: Win, 34-16
Hawks Record: 5-0
Tony Romo has nightmares about Century Link Field. I don't think he's ever won in Seattle, and that won't change. This should be similar to the 2012 home opener in which the Hawks won handily. This should also be one of the offense's better games of the season.
Week 7 - At St. Louis Rams: Loss, 20-19
Hawks Record: 5-1
Hard to do... but I can't see the Hawks going perfect. And I see the Rams as a much improved team. Should be close and hard fought, but the Hawks haven't done too well in recent years in St. Louis. If the Rams don't improve much in 2014 then I wouldn't be surprised if this was a win. But I think the Hawks may underestimate them.
Week 8 - At Carolina Panthers: Win, 10-7
Hawks Record: 6-1
How come the Seahawks have had to play IN Carolina for THREE straight years? I'd understand two years in a row, but THREE? That should not be allowed. But no matter, the Hawks should win a defensive bruiser of a contest, with both QB's not getting to 200 yards passing.
Week 9 - Vs. Oakland Raiders: Win, 34-9
Hawks Record: 7-1
A part of me thinks the Raiders will be an improved team, but even so, this is a game everyone circles as a win in their predictions. A loss to the Raiders at home would be inexcusable. Matt Schaub will have flashbacks to last season when he through a game-blowing pick to Richard Sherman, and so he'll likely throw a couple INT's here.
Week 10 - Vs. New York Giants: Win, 24-15
Hawks Record: 8-1
Whenever I pick the Giants to do poorly, they do well, and whenever I pick them to do well, they do poorly, so I give up. Regardless, Eli Manning's never had much success in Seattle, and while this may be a closer contest than what we'd like, it should still be a relatively easy win.
Week 11 - At Kansas City Chiefs: Loss, 28-20
Hawks Record: 8-2
Funny thing is, I don't see the Chiefs being as good as last year. But the Hawks, having played in their seventh straight game without an off week at a stadium that's always hard for the visitors, I think, will struggle. Jamaal Charles might have a big game. If he does, and Alex Smith takes care of the football, this will be a tough game to win. It's not too bad losing to a team on the road when they're in the other conference, because that doesn't factor into tiebreakers.
Week 12 - Vs. Arizona Cardinals: Win, 19-17
Hawks Record: 9-2
Two years ago in Seattle, the Hawks thwomped the Cardinals 58-0. Last year, the Cardinals got their revenge and stole a win from the Hawks in Seattle, the first home loss in quite some time. This time around, the Hawks are the ones getting revenge in what should be a tight contest again.
Week 13 - At San Francisco 49ers: Win, 21-16
Hawks Record: 10-2
It's about damn time we win in San Francisco. It's not a long flight, their fans aren't particularly loud, and the weather never plays a factor. Since this game is being played in the newly constructed Levi's Stadium, the Hawks might think of this as a neutral site game (especially since there WILL be some Hawk fans there) and forget that it's a road game. The Hawks know this is one of the most important games on their schedule, and their failure to win in San Francisco should fuel their desire for this win. Hawks in an upset.
Week 14 - At Philadelphia Eagles: Loss, 28-20.
Hawks Record: 10-3
The Eagles are more than likely the best team in the NFC East, and while I see this game going either way, I think the banged up Hawks (from the Niner game) struggle to contain Nick Foles and LeSean McCoy. This game would have some playoff implications, but it's not the end of the world if the Hawks lose. With two road contests in a row against NFC playoff teams from a year ago, the Hawks would probably be ok with going 1-1 in these contests.
Week 15 - Vs. San Francisco 49ers: Win, 27-13
Hawks Record: 11-3
The 49ers will be seeking revenge yet shall find none. Colin Kaepernick (if he's healthy) will struggle and the Hawks will put themselves in great position with this win. I expect it to be a close game for the most part, with the Hawks pulling away with a late score to make it a two-score game.
Week 16 - At Arizona Cardinals: Win, 24-14
Hawks Record: 12-3
Last season, the Hawks had a pretty resounding win against the Cardinals in Arizona, and I see a similar result here. For the 2nd straight year at the end of the season, the Hawks play at the site of the upcoming Super Bowl, and like last year, they will win. They'll look at this game as a Super Bowl dress rehearsal.
Week 17 - vs. St. Louis Rams: Loss, 19-17
Hawks Record: 12-4
In their defense, I'm predicting the Hawks to not have to win this game to secure a playoff spot. Sure, they'll give the Rams a good effort, but without 100% effort, expect the hungry Rams to take advantage. They haven't won in Seattle in quite some time, and that's due to change. But don't worry Hawk fans, this game won't matter to the Hawks at all.
Well, that's it. What? No post-season? Of course the Seahawks make the post-season. They're way too talented to miss them. But guess what? You're going to have to wait until part 3 of my NFL Predictions to see how they do in the playoffs. Sorry! Don't want to spoil too much. I'll give you a sneak peak. The first game the Hawks will play will be against...
THE RAMS.
"WHAT?!"
That's right. The Rams.
"So if the Rams make the playoffs, does that mean the 49ers miss them?"
You're going to have to wait and see.
Update:
Here is who I think will lead the Seahawks in each of the following categories. Passing and rushing leaders will obviously be Wilson and Lynch, respectively, but what about the other categories?
Receptions: Baldwin
Receiving Yards: Baldwin
Receiving TD's: Kearse
Sacks: Avril
Tackles: Thomas
Interceptions: Thomas
Week 1 - Vs. Green Bay Packers: Win, 24-21
Hawks Record: 1-0
Opening night of the season, the Hawks fall behind early due to jitters and excitement and trail at the half 14-10. But in the 2nd half the defense steps up and the Seahawks score two unanswered touchdowns to make it 24-14. The Packers score in the 4th to make it close, and they are able to get the ball back, but the D stops them. Should be close and hard fought, I don't see them possibly scoring more than the combined 45 points I predicted.
Week 2 - At San Diego Chargers: Win, 28-13
Hawks Record: 2-0
San Diego was a playoff team a year ago, so this won't be too easy of a contest... you'd think. But Philip Rivers will struggle against the LoB, not having seen them at their current playing ability. Expect the D to make some big plays (turnovers, sacks) and the offense to only be ordinary at best in this one, which should be plenty enough.
Week 3 - Vs. Denver Broncos: Win, 31-24
Hawks Record: 3-0
In the rematch of Super Bowl XLVIII, the Hawks again get the upper hand and win. Peyton Manning will struggle at first with the noise but will eventually settle down. Broncos will get stopped on a last minute try to tie the game.
Week 5 - At Washington Redskins: Win, 28-10
Hawks Record: 4-0
The Seahawks are even better than the 2012 team that made the playoffs, but the same cannot be said for the team from Washington. Predicting easy wins on the first two road games is risky, I'll admit, but the team will be well rested after a Bye Week and should be hungry in this one to keep things going.
Week 6 - Vs. Dallas Cowboys: Win, 34-16
Hawks Record: 5-0
Tony Romo has nightmares about Century Link Field. I don't think he's ever won in Seattle, and that won't change. This should be similar to the 2012 home opener in which the Hawks won handily. This should also be one of the offense's better games of the season.
Week 7 - At St. Louis Rams: Loss, 20-19
Hawks Record: 5-1
Hard to do... but I can't see the Hawks going perfect. And I see the Rams as a much improved team. Should be close and hard fought, but the Hawks haven't done too well in recent years in St. Louis. If the Rams don't improve much in 2014 then I wouldn't be surprised if this was a win. But I think the Hawks may underestimate them.
Week 8 - At Carolina Panthers: Win, 10-7
Hawks Record: 6-1
How come the Seahawks have had to play IN Carolina for THREE straight years? I'd understand two years in a row, but THREE? That should not be allowed. But no matter, the Hawks should win a defensive bruiser of a contest, with both QB's not getting to 200 yards passing.
Week 9 - Vs. Oakland Raiders: Win, 34-9
Hawks Record: 7-1
A part of me thinks the Raiders will be an improved team, but even so, this is a game everyone circles as a win in their predictions. A loss to the Raiders at home would be inexcusable. Matt Schaub will have flashbacks to last season when he through a game-blowing pick to Richard Sherman, and so he'll likely throw a couple INT's here.
Week 10 - Vs. New York Giants: Win, 24-15
Hawks Record: 8-1
Whenever I pick the Giants to do poorly, they do well, and whenever I pick them to do well, they do poorly, so I give up. Regardless, Eli Manning's never had much success in Seattle, and while this may be a closer contest than what we'd like, it should still be a relatively easy win.
Week 11 - At Kansas City Chiefs: Loss, 28-20
Hawks Record: 8-2
Funny thing is, I don't see the Chiefs being as good as last year. But the Hawks, having played in their seventh straight game without an off week at a stadium that's always hard for the visitors, I think, will struggle. Jamaal Charles might have a big game. If he does, and Alex Smith takes care of the football, this will be a tough game to win. It's not too bad losing to a team on the road when they're in the other conference, because that doesn't factor into tiebreakers.
Week 12 - Vs. Arizona Cardinals: Win, 19-17
Hawks Record: 9-2
Two years ago in Seattle, the Hawks thwomped the Cardinals 58-0. Last year, the Cardinals got their revenge and stole a win from the Hawks in Seattle, the first home loss in quite some time. This time around, the Hawks are the ones getting revenge in what should be a tight contest again.
Week 13 - At San Francisco 49ers: Win, 21-16
Hawks Record: 10-2
It's about damn time we win in San Francisco. It's not a long flight, their fans aren't particularly loud, and the weather never plays a factor. Since this game is being played in the newly constructed Levi's Stadium, the Hawks might think of this as a neutral site game (especially since there WILL be some Hawk fans there) and forget that it's a road game. The Hawks know this is one of the most important games on their schedule, and their failure to win in San Francisco should fuel their desire for this win. Hawks in an upset.
Week 14 - At Philadelphia Eagles: Loss, 28-20.
Hawks Record: 10-3
The Eagles are more than likely the best team in the NFC East, and while I see this game going either way, I think the banged up Hawks (from the Niner game) struggle to contain Nick Foles and LeSean McCoy. This game would have some playoff implications, but it's not the end of the world if the Hawks lose. With two road contests in a row against NFC playoff teams from a year ago, the Hawks would probably be ok with going 1-1 in these contests.
Week 15 - Vs. San Francisco 49ers: Win, 27-13
Hawks Record: 11-3
The 49ers will be seeking revenge yet shall find none. Colin Kaepernick (if he's healthy) will struggle and the Hawks will put themselves in great position with this win. I expect it to be a close game for the most part, with the Hawks pulling away with a late score to make it a two-score game.
Week 16 - At Arizona Cardinals: Win, 24-14
Hawks Record: 12-3
Last season, the Hawks had a pretty resounding win against the Cardinals in Arizona, and I see a similar result here. For the 2nd straight year at the end of the season, the Hawks play at the site of the upcoming Super Bowl, and like last year, they will win. They'll look at this game as a Super Bowl dress rehearsal.
Week 17 - vs. St. Louis Rams: Loss, 19-17
Hawks Record: 12-4
In their defense, I'm predicting the Hawks to not have to win this game to secure a playoff spot. Sure, they'll give the Rams a good effort, but without 100% effort, expect the hungry Rams to take advantage. They haven't won in Seattle in quite some time, and that's due to change. But don't worry Hawk fans, this game won't matter to the Hawks at all.
Well, that's it. What? No post-season? Of course the Seahawks make the post-season. They're way too talented to miss them. But guess what? You're going to have to wait until part 3 of my NFL Predictions to see how they do in the playoffs. Sorry! Don't want to spoil too much. I'll give you a sneak peak. The first game the Hawks will play will be against...
THE RAMS.
"WHAT?!"
That's right. The Rams.
"So if the Rams make the playoffs, does that mean the 49ers miss them?"
You're going to have to wait and see.
Update:
Here is who I think will lead the Seahawks in each of the following categories. Passing and rushing leaders will obviously be Wilson and Lynch, respectively, but what about the other categories?
Receptions: Baldwin
Receiving Yards: Baldwin
Receiving TD's: Kearse
Sacks: Avril
Tackles: Thomas
Interceptions: Thomas
Friday, January 24, 2014
My Seahawks Journey and Extensive Super Bowl Prediction
Hey guys, I first want to start out by apologizing for the long delay in
between blog posts. I've been busy and
really haven't felt the need or want to write about something. Anyway, here we are in 2014 and the Seahawks
have made it to their second ever Super Bowl.
What a great season they have had, and hopefully it ends on a high
note. I'm going to talk about my life as
a Seahawk fan for a bit, how I became a Seahawks fan and certain notable games
I remember, and then it will all lead up to my predictions for the Super Bowl,
which will include an interesting analogy.
The first Seahawks season that I can remember was 1999, the last season in the Kingdome. The Seahawks went 9-7 that year, winning the AFC West Division Championship and earning their first playoff trip since 1988. I got into the Seahawks around that time because I had just gotten into watching sports (including the Mariners and Sonics), but also because of my dad. Before I was born, my dad would record every Seahawks game on VHS, but had to stop once me and my sister were born. I remember watching one of the games he recorded. He eventually gave the tapes of the games to Seahawks and Seattle sports super fan, Lorin Sandretzky, also known as "Big Lo".
I even went to a few games in Husky Stadium while Seahawks Stadium (which eventually became Qwest Field which became CenturyLink Field) was being built. I saw the Seahawks lose to the Broncos, but I also saw the Hawks cream the Raiders on Sunday Night Football, in which Shaun Alexander got a team record 266 yards rushing. I feel after that game I really fell in love with the Seahawks.
After 1999, the Seahawks still remained in mediocrity until 2003, when they made the playoffs again. I remember watching that playoff game against the Packers in the freezing cold, when the game went into overtime. Matt Hasselbeck infamously declared, "We want the ball, we're gonna score". He then proceeded to throw a pick six to Al Harris to seal the win for the Packers. The Seahawks made the playoffs the following year, but lost to the Rams at home in the playoffs, which also happens to be the last time the Seahawks lost a home playoff game.
The following year, of course, was the Seahawks Super Bowl season. I was so hung up on every game that every loss left me devastated and depressed for the next week. After the Super Bowl loss to the Steelers, I was so upset that I smashed every one of my Steelers miniature helmets I had at the time.
The remaining Seahawks players made the playoffs a few more times, but never mustered any real playoff run. Then the Seahawks had a few bad seasons, which eventually led to them hiring Pete Carroll. Pete and John Schneider, the GM, have put together arguably the best roster in Seahawks history. Now they are one win away from the team's first ever Super Bowl title.
I haven't let myself get hung up on games this year like in years past. Just last season, when the Seahawks playoff run ended in a loss to the Falcons, I remember feeling so hopeless for the team, thinking that was our only shot. But now, the following season, the Seahawks have gotten to the final game. But for this game, I'm not going to let it affect me as much as others if we lose. It helps to have a team and quarterback as opposition that I'm both a fan of. I can never hate the Broncos or Peyton Manning, because they're both a big reason why I became a bigger fan of football than anything else. If the Seahawks lose, it's not the end of the world, nor is it the end of their run.
Now, for predictions. At the start of the football season, way back in August, I predicted a Super Bowl matchup between the Broncos and Seahawks, and look how right I was. Sure, I missed on a few playoff teams (Oops on Texans, Ravens, Falcons, Giants, and Rams), but I got the end result correct. Now, I predicted a final score of 27-24 Broncos. But that was when I thought our defense would have a bit of a down year with a new defensive coordinator. So, let's go over what I think will really happen:
First quarter:
Seahawks win toss--defer to second half
-Manning and Broncos slowed by weather, punt on first possession.
-Wilson and Seahawks go 3 and out, which is something we've grown used to seeing over the past couple months.
-Broncos get decent field position thanks to a good punt return by Decker, but settle for a field goal.
- Seahawks get ball and are driving as quarter ends.
After one quarter: DEN-3, SEA-0
Second quarter:
- Seahawks drive to red zone, but a fumbled exchange between Lynch and Wilson gives the ball to the Broncos.
- Peyton Manning finds Demaryius Thomas for a long bomb, scoring the game's first TD.
- Seahawks drive again, thanks to some good runs by Lynch, but have to settle for a field goal.
- Broncos get stopped on some pass deflections by the Legion of Boom.
- Seahawks get ball back, but have to settle for a sizeable field goal try, which Hauschka misses to end the half.
After two quarters: DEN-10, SEA-3
Third quarter:
- Seahawks go 3 and out to start the half.
- Broncos drive to the red zone, but Manning is stripped by Cliff Avril and the Seahawks recover.
- Wilson finds Golden Tate on a 40 yard strike, which eventually sets up a Lynch touchdown to tie the game.
- On Manning's first pass of the next drive, Byron Maxwell steps in front of a pass and returns it for a TD.
After three quarters: DEN-10, SEA-17
Fourth quarter:
- Manning and the Broncos go on a methodical drive, getting chunks of short passes and eventually get a Julius Thomas TD.
- Seahawks get to 40 yard line, go for it on 4th down, but can't convert.
- Broncos drive and get to a 4th and 1, but with the conditions and without a strong running game they have to kick a field goal, which Matt Prater does.
- Seahawks get the ball back, but are stopped on 3rd down near midfield. Carroll decides to punt and Jon Ryan is able to pin the Broncos at the 10, with about 3 minutes to go.
- Manning and the offense is stuffed, but they take the time down to 2 minutes. They punt it away to Tate, who muffs it at first but then recovers and gets a few yards.
- Seahawks get a clutch pass to Doug Baldwin, which is a tiptoe sideline catch on third down, which many people will then say is one of the best Super Bowl catches ever. The Seahawks run out of downs, however, and settle for a game tying field goal. Broncos take their remaining timeouts to keep time on the clock, but once they get the ball decide to just kneel.
After four quarters: DEN-20, SEA-20
That's right, the first ever Super Bowl to go into overtime!
Overtime:
- Seahawks lose the toss, which is fine with them because of their D.
- Broncos get the ball, and a pass is tipped and intercepted by Earl Thomas, who returns it to the Broncos 40!
- Seahawks get a first down with a few Lynch runs, and set up a game winning field goal try from the 22. Hauschka makes it, and the Seahawks win one of the most dramatic Super Bowls in history.
FINAL SCORE: DEN-20, SEA-23
MVP: Marshawn Lynch, 21-105, 1 TD
I think if the above were to happen many Seahawks fans would die of heart failure. Anything's possible, though. Before I wrap up, an analogy like I promised:
Their once was a team with a great defense. Maybe even better than great. They had talent at every level on the defense. Their offense was above average and usually good enough to get them enough points to win. Sound familiar? No, this isn't the Seahawks. This team I'm talking about had a good running game as well, and some receivers that weren't All-Pro but made the big catches when it mattered. Their quarterback wasn't even a Pro Bowler, but he was good enough.
This team made it all the way to the Super Bowl as a representative for the NFC. They had the best defense in the league, and maybe, one of the best defenses ever, with two already having gone to the Hall of Fame. In the Super Bowl, they faced the team with the #1 offense and the League MVP at Quarterback. But in the Super Bowl, they stopped this #1 offense by getting FIVE interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns. This team? The 2002-2003 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They beat the #1 offense of the Raiders and MVP Rich Gannon in Super Bowl XXXVII by a score of 48-21. All I'm saying is that if the Buccaneers can do it, so can the Seahawks. Sure, Peyton Manning might be a step or two above Rich Gannon, but now is the time to shine as a defense, just like the Buccaneers did. This was also the last time the #1 offense and #1 defense met in the Super Bowl.
So, let's hope the Seahawks can repeat what the Buccaneers did. Let's hope for the first major sports championship in this city in 35 years. Let's hope for a Seahawks Super Bowl Title! GO HAWKS!!!
The first Seahawks season that I can remember was 1999, the last season in the Kingdome. The Seahawks went 9-7 that year, winning the AFC West Division Championship and earning their first playoff trip since 1988. I got into the Seahawks around that time because I had just gotten into watching sports (including the Mariners and Sonics), but also because of my dad. Before I was born, my dad would record every Seahawks game on VHS, but had to stop once me and my sister were born. I remember watching one of the games he recorded. He eventually gave the tapes of the games to Seahawks and Seattle sports super fan, Lorin Sandretzky, also known as "Big Lo".
I even went to a few games in Husky Stadium while Seahawks Stadium (which eventually became Qwest Field which became CenturyLink Field) was being built. I saw the Seahawks lose to the Broncos, but I also saw the Hawks cream the Raiders on Sunday Night Football, in which Shaun Alexander got a team record 266 yards rushing. I feel after that game I really fell in love with the Seahawks.
After 1999, the Seahawks still remained in mediocrity until 2003, when they made the playoffs again. I remember watching that playoff game against the Packers in the freezing cold, when the game went into overtime. Matt Hasselbeck infamously declared, "We want the ball, we're gonna score". He then proceeded to throw a pick six to Al Harris to seal the win for the Packers. The Seahawks made the playoffs the following year, but lost to the Rams at home in the playoffs, which also happens to be the last time the Seahawks lost a home playoff game.
The following year, of course, was the Seahawks Super Bowl season. I was so hung up on every game that every loss left me devastated and depressed for the next week. After the Super Bowl loss to the Steelers, I was so upset that I smashed every one of my Steelers miniature helmets I had at the time.
The remaining Seahawks players made the playoffs a few more times, but never mustered any real playoff run. Then the Seahawks had a few bad seasons, which eventually led to them hiring Pete Carroll. Pete and John Schneider, the GM, have put together arguably the best roster in Seahawks history. Now they are one win away from the team's first ever Super Bowl title.
I haven't let myself get hung up on games this year like in years past. Just last season, when the Seahawks playoff run ended in a loss to the Falcons, I remember feeling so hopeless for the team, thinking that was our only shot. But now, the following season, the Seahawks have gotten to the final game. But for this game, I'm not going to let it affect me as much as others if we lose. It helps to have a team and quarterback as opposition that I'm both a fan of. I can never hate the Broncos or Peyton Manning, because they're both a big reason why I became a bigger fan of football than anything else. If the Seahawks lose, it's not the end of the world, nor is it the end of their run.
Now, for predictions. At the start of the football season, way back in August, I predicted a Super Bowl matchup between the Broncos and Seahawks, and look how right I was. Sure, I missed on a few playoff teams (Oops on Texans, Ravens, Falcons, Giants, and Rams), but I got the end result correct. Now, I predicted a final score of 27-24 Broncos. But that was when I thought our defense would have a bit of a down year with a new defensive coordinator. So, let's go over what I think will really happen:
First quarter:
Seahawks win toss--defer to second half
-Manning and Broncos slowed by weather, punt on first possession.
-Wilson and Seahawks go 3 and out, which is something we've grown used to seeing over the past couple months.
-Broncos get decent field position thanks to a good punt return by Decker, but settle for a field goal.
- Seahawks get ball and are driving as quarter ends.
After one quarter: DEN-3, SEA-0
Second quarter:
- Seahawks drive to red zone, but a fumbled exchange between Lynch and Wilson gives the ball to the Broncos.
- Peyton Manning finds Demaryius Thomas for a long bomb, scoring the game's first TD.
- Seahawks drive again, thanks to some good runs by Lynch, but have to settle for a field goal.
- Broncos get stopped on some pass deflections by the Legion of Boom.
- Seahawks get ball back, but have to settle for a sizeable field goal try, which Hauschka misses to end the half.
After two quarters: DEN-10, SEA-3
Third quarter:
- Seahawks go 3 and out to start the half.
- Broncos drive to the red zone, but Manning is stripped by Cliff Avril and the Seahawks recover.
- Wilson finds Golden Tate on a 40 yard strike, which eventually sets up a Lynch touchdown to tie the game.
- On Manning's first pass of the next drive, Byron Maxwell steps in front of a pass and returns it for a TD.
After three quarters: DEN-10, SEA-17
Fourth quarter:
- Manning and the Broncos go on a methodical drive, getting chunks of short passes and eventually get a Julius Thomas TD.
- Seahawks get to 40 yard line, go for it on 4th down, but can't convert.
- Broncos drive and get to a 4th and 1, but with the conditions and without a strong running game they have to kick a field goal, which Matt Prater does.
- Seahawks get the ball back, but are stopped on 3rd down near midfield. Carroll decides to punt and Jon Ryan is able to pin the Broncos at the 10, with about 3 minutes to go.
- Manning and the offense is stuffed, but they take the time down to 2 minutes. They punt it away to Tate, who muffs it at first but then recovers and gets a few yards.
- Seahawks get a clutch pass to Doug Baldwin, which is a tiptoe sideline catch on third down, which many people will then say is one of the best Super Bowl catches ever. The Seahawks run out of downs, however, and settle for a game tying field goal. Broncos take their remaining timeouts to keep time on the clock, but once they get the ball decide to just kneel.
After four quarters: DEN-20, SEA-20
That's right, the first ever Super Bowl to go into overtime!
Overtime:
- Seahawks lose the toss, which is fine with them because of their D.
- Broncos get the ball, and a pass is tipped and intercepted by Earl Thomas, who returns it to the Broncos 40!
- Seahawks get a first down with a few Lynch runs, and set up a game winning field goal try from the 22. Hauschka makes it, and the Seahawks win one of the most dramatic Super Bowls in history.
FINAL SCORE: DEN-20, SEA-23
MVP: Marshawn Lynch, 21-105, 1 TD
I think if the above were to happen many Seahawks fans would die of heart failure. Anything's possible, though. Before I wrap up, an analogy like I promised:
Their once was a team with a great defense. Maybe even better than great. They had talent at every level on the defense. Their offense was above average and usually good enough to get them enough points to win. Sound familiar? No, this isn't the Seahawks. This team I'm talking about had a good running game as well, and some receivers that weren't All-Pro but made the big catches when it mattered. Their quarterback wasn't even a Pro Bowler, but he was good enough.
This team made it all the way to the Super Bowl as a representative for the NFC. They had the best defense in the league, and maybe, one of the best defenses ever, with two already having gone to the Hall of Fame. In the Super Bowl, they faced the team with the #1 offense and the League MVP at Quarterback. But in the Super Bowl, they stopped this #1 offense by getting FIVE interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns. This team? The 2002-2003 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They beat the #1 offense of the Raiders and MVP Rich Gannon in Super Bowl XXXVII by a score of 48-21. All I'm saying is that if the Buccaneers can do it, so can the Seahawks. Sure, Peyton Manning might be a step or two above Rich Gannon, but now is the time to shine as a defense, just like the Buccaneers did. This was also the last time the #1 offense and #1 defense met in the Super Bowl.
So, let's hope the Seahawks can repeat what the Buccaneers did. Let's hope for the first major sports championship in this city in 35 years. Let's hope for a Seahawks Super Bowl Title! GO HAWKS!!!
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
My 2013 Major League Baseball Predictions
Well, it's already March so that means that spring training is underway in
baseball and it's time for my predictions for the 2013 MLB season. First off will be my predictions for all the
teams, awards, and post-season (including my pick for World Series Champs). I correctly predicted the Giants to win the
World Series last year. We'll see if I
can make it two straight. We'll start
with the NL East and head west, so that I do the AL West last.
NL East
1. Atlanta Braves, 97-65
I think the Braves are going to be scary good this year. They have an outfield full of Uptons (and a Heyward), they have Freddie Freeman who, with a consistent season could even garner NL MVP talk, and they have the best closer in baseball right now in Craig Kimbrel.
2. Washington Nationals, 91-71 (Wild Card)
I see a dropoff year for the Nationals, if ever so slightly. I think Bryce Harper will have a Mike Trout type season and get some MVP consideration. Strasburg should be fresh and ready having sat out last postseason. I think the Braves' talent is more ready to win the division this year, but the Nationals are strong enough to get the Wild Card.
3. New York Mets, 80-82
I think the Mets will have a lot of positives this season, but they still have a ways to go before contending again. This season will definitely be seen as moving in the right direction for them, but signing so many oft-injured has-been in recent years has really set them back.
4. Philadelphia Phillies, 80-82
What happened to the Phillies? Used to be perennial pennant contenders. Now, they are barely a .500 team. I'll tell you what happened: Age caught up with them. They will have to undergo a youth movement which has sort of started, but they have a ways to go.
5. Miami Marlins, 73-89
Boy, what a letdown year last season, which I correctly predicted. You can't have too many egos on one team. The Marlins underwent a massive overhaul this offseason, including their coach. But something tells me they could be slightly better than last year. At least they still have Giancarlo Stanton. They just have to hope he stays healthy. Getting beaned by a ball in spring training is not a good sign for Stanton.
NL Central
1. Cincinnati Reds, 88-74
Despite no longer having the Astros to beat up on, I think the Reds will have fewer wins this year, due to increased competition from other NL teams. I see the NL Central being a tight race all season long. I expect Joey Votto to return to near his usual form.
2. St. Louis Cardinals, 86-76 (tied for Wild card)
Somehow this team CAN survive without Pujols. And they almost made it to the World Series, being up 3 to 1 to the Giants. I don't see a repeat of success this year. But I'll have a major league first this year: Two teams tied for the 2nd wild card spot.
3. Pittsburgh Pirates, 82-80
And, on the final game of the season against the Reds, the Pirates pull off a miracle and secure a winning season for the first time in 21 years. They are definitely a team on the rise, and if there ever is a time to break the streak of losing seasons, now is the time.
4. Milwaukee Brewers, 80-82
I told you this would be a tight race, with the 4th place team only 8 games back at the end of the season. I don't know what it is about the Brewers, but they just don't scream post-season. I don't see any sort of awful season for them, but there is just too much competition in the NL Central.
5. Chicago Cubs, 69-93
And then there are the Cubs. The good ol' Cubbies. Well, someday, they will again contend for the NL Central crown, and it doesn't hurt to have one less team to compete against. But someone has gotta be in last place and every other team in their division just have too much talent.
NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers, 95-67
The Dodgers lavish amount of spending will finally pay off in a division title. Sorry, Giants fans, but I think 2013 will be the Dodgers year, at least in the regular season. Matt Kemp, Adrian Gonzalez, Hanley Ramirez, Andre Eithier, and Carl Crawford all in the same lineup? Yes please. Oh and the signing of Zack Grienke should give them an ace to carry them throughout the season.
2. San Francisco Giants, 86-76 (tied for wild card)
The Giants come off their championship run with another solid season, but one that they just manage to squeak in to the post-season. I think the Giants will have trouble with the Dodgers next season, so a 2nd place finish would be the landing place I see them in.
3. Arizona Diamondbacks, 79-83
The Diamondbacks had a letdown season after their great 2011 run, but I just don't see them climbing back up. They just don't have the talent. They traded away Justin Upton, so they have even less talent. I don't see a last place finish for the D-Backs, but a first or even second place finish would be quite a surprise.
4. Colorado Rockies, 77-85
I see the Rockies having a bounceback season from last, when they finished dead last in the NL West. I think CarGo and Tulo will regain their hitting prowess and make the Rockies one of the NL's best hitting teams again. But, like always, they have to work on their pitching.
5. San Diego Padres, 62-100
I don't know what it is about these guys, but I just can't see many wins this year from them. Someone has got to lose a ton of games in the NL, and this year I'm picking the Padres. Worst team in baseball? No. Worst team in the NL? Possibly.
AL East
1. Baltimore Orioles, 89-73
Who would have thought a couple years ago that the Orioles would have any shot of a division crown? They have arguably some of the best young talent in the division. The AL East, in my opinion, is the hardest division to predict for 2013. I'll pick the young O birds to come out in top. A good 12 months for Baltimore sports teams.
2. Tampa Bay Rays, 88-74 (Wild card)
What? No Red Sox OR Yankees in the top 2 in the AL East?! That has to be a first, right? No, but it hasn't happened in 21 years. There is too much young hitting with the O's and too much good young pitching with the Rays. They will barely miss the division, but get a wild card.
3. New York Yankees, 81-81
The Yankees without a winning record. Hasn't happened since 1992. But with injuries (Jeter), age (Rivera, Pettitte), and scandal (A-Rod) surrounding the team, I can see it happening. I know it's probably Mariano Rivera's last season, but I just don't see how he can have his dominant stuff. No storybook ending for him.
4. Toronto Blue Jays, 79-83
While I'd like to give the Blue Jays a better record, I just can't. They had probably the best offseason of any team, getting RA Dickey, Melky Cabrera, and Mark Buehrle. But like I've said earlier, too much talent in this division.
5. Boston Red Sox, 75-87
The turnaround won't happen overnight, even for the BoSox. New manager John Farrell won't do much, and with the BoSox not selling out all their games this year like they usually do, fan support will be down. But they'll come back, obviously. Just not this year.
AL Central
1. Detroit Tigers, 95-67
The reigning AL Champs will have an even better regular season than last, motivated by their loss in the World Series to the Giants. If they stay healthy and motivated, they're one of the best teams in the AL. Verlander will more than likely dominate again.
2. Cleveland Indians, 85-77
The Indians are my surprise pick for 2013, with 17 more wins than last year. They play in a division that isn't too difficult, and they made some great moves in the offseason, the best probably being hiring Terry Francona as manager. The Indians will break out and give the Tigers some competition, not just this year, but for years to come.
3. Chicago White Sox, 81-81
The ChiSox always seem to hover between mediocrity and decent for years and years. This year, I expect mediocrity. With the Indians breaking out, someone has to slide down in the division a bit, and that would be the White Sox.
4. Kansas City Royals, 75-87
The AL equivalent of the Pirates (Former contending team now a laughingstock), the Royals will have another ho-hum season. They made very few moves in the offseason and could have gotten a big haul of prospects for Billy Butler, but I guess the Royals have renounced their ways of letting good players go and just trying to hang with them.
5. Minnesota Twins, 67-95
Wow, an improvement of ONE game! What a turnaround! Joe Mauer for MVP! In all seriousness, however, the Twinkies will need more than a new park to return to prevalence.
AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 99-63
2013 will be the year for Los Angeles area baseball teams. The Angels were really mad after being TWO SPOTS behind the low-payroll Oakland A's last year. The same won't happen again. Hamilton, Pujols, Trout, and co. (Wow that's a lot of talent) will muscle their way to a division crown.
2. Texas Rangers, 90-72 (Wild Card)
Losing Hamilton will hurt. His presence, more than anything was felt throughout the clubhouse. Who is the big star of this team now? Elvis Andrus? Yu Darvish? Despite that, they will continue to compete and earn a wild card berth.
3. Oakland Athletics, 83-79
The A's do have a lot of good young players, but even the biggest of A's fans would admit last year had to do a bit with luck. Alas, their luck ran out and they lost to the Tigers in the division series. They will get back to that level some year, but not 2013.
4. Seattle Mariners, 79-83
Finally. Our Seattle Mariners. It just seems we are so slowly inching our way toward prevalence. Who knew the rebuilding process could take so freaking long? Nevertheless, I'll take an improved record any day. We just have to wait until one of our AL West contenders falls on their face, similar to the 2012 Boston Red Sox. But hey, at least we won't be in last place!
5. Houston Astros, 52-110
The Astros are such a laughingstock right now. Only one guy is making a million or more. Quick, name five Houston Astros players! I can only name one: Jose Altuve, only because he was their All-Star last season. It's odd to see a last place team 27 games behind.... the 4th place team, but it could happen. They might not beat the Angels or Rangers once this year.
2013 MLB Post-Season Predictions
Tie-breakers and wild cards:
NL Wild Card tiebreaker: Giants over Cardinals
NL Wild Card: Nationals over Giants
AL Wild Card: Rays over Rangers
Divisional Round:
NL: Nationals over Braves
Dodgers over Reds
AL: Angels over Rays
Tigers over Orioles
NL Championship: Nationals over Dodgers
AL Championship: Angels over Tigers
World Series: Angels over Nationals, 4-1
Award winners:
AL MVP: Mike Trout, Angels
NL MVP: Stephen Strasburg, Nationals
AL Cy Young: David Price, Rays
NL Cy Young: Stephen Strasburg, Nationals
AL Coach: Terry Francona, Indians
NL Coach: Fredi Gonzalez, Braves
AL Rookie: Wil Myers, Rays
NL Rookie: Darin Ruf, Phillies
There you have it. Again I pick a California team to win it all, but hey, I'm slightly west-cost biased. The Nationals advance to the World Series to make the Seattle Mariners the only current team to have never gone to the World Series. Congrats, Angels. Up next: My predictions for the Seattle Mariners.
NL East
1. Atlanta Braves, 97-65
I think the Braves are going to be scary good this year. They have an outfield full of Uptons (and a Heyward), they have Freddie Freeman who, with a consistent season could even garner NL MVP talk, and they have the best closer in baseball right now in Craig Kimbrel.
2. Washington Nationals, 91-71 (Wild Card)
I see a dropoff year for the Nationals, if ever so slightly. I think Bryce Harper will have a Mike Trout type season and get some MVP consideration. Strasburg should be fresh and ready having sat out last postseason. I think the Braves' talent is more ready to win the division this year, but the Nationals are strong enough to get the Wild Card.
3. New York Mets, 80-82
I think the Mets will have a lot of positives this season, but they still have a ways to go before contending again. This season will definitely be seen as moving in the right direction for them, but signing so many oft-injured has-been in recent years has really set them back.
4. Philadelphia Phillies, 80-82
What happened to the Phillies? Used to be perennial pennant contenders. Now, they are barely a .500 team. I'll tell you what happened: Age caught up with them. They will have to undergo a youth movement which has sort of started, but they have a ways to go.
5. Miami Marlins, 73-89
Boy, what a letdown year last season, which I correctly predicted. You can't have too many egos on one team. The Marlins underwent a massive overhaul this offseason, including their coach. But something tells me they could be slightly better than last year. At least they still have Giancarlo Stanton. They just have to hope he stays healthy. Getting beaned by a ball in spring training is not a good sign for Stanton.
NL Central
1. Cincinnati Reds, 88-74
Despite no longer having the Astros to beat up on, I think the Reds will have fewer wins this year, due to increased competition from other NL teams. I see the NL Central being a tight race all season long. I expect Joey Votto to return to near his usual form.
2. St. Louis Cardinals, 86-76 (tied for Wild card)
Somehow this team CAN survive without Pujols. And they almost made it to the World Series, being up 3 to 1 to the Giants. I don't see a repeat of success this year. But I'll have a major league first this year: Two teams tied for the 2nd wild card spot.
3. Pittsburgh Pirates, 82-80
And, on the final game of the season against the Reds, the Pirates pull off a miracle and secure a winning season for the first time in 21 years. They are definitely a team on the rise, and if there ever is a time to break the streak of losing seasons, now is the time.
4. Milwaukee Brewers, 80-82
I told you this would be a tight race, with the 4th place team only 8 games back at the end of the season. I don't know what it is about the Brewers, but they just don't scream post-season. I don't see any sort of awful season for them, but there is just too much competition in the NL Central.
5. Chicago Cubs, 69-93
And then there are the Cubs. The good ol' Cubbies. Well, someday, they will again contend for the NL Central crown, and it doesn't hurt to have one less team to compete against. But someone has gotta be in last place and every other team in their division just have too much talent.
NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers, 95-67
The Dodgers lavish amount of spending will finally pay off in a division title. Sorry, Giants fans, but I think 2013 will be the Dodgers year, at least in the regular season. Matt Kemp, Adrian Gonzalez, Hanley Ramirez, Andre Eithier, and Carl Crawford all in the same lineup? Yes please. Oh and the signing of Zack Grienke should give them an ace to carry them throughout the season.
2. San Francisco Giants, 86-76 (tied for wild card)
The Giants come off their championship run with another solid season, but one that they just manage to squeak in to the post-season. I think the Giants will have trouble with the Dodgers next season, so a 2nd place finish would be the landing place I see them in.
3. Arizona Diamondbacks, 79-83
The Diamondbacks had a letdown season after their great 2011 run, but I just don't see them climbing back up. They just don't have the talent. They traded away Justin Upton, so they have even less talent. I don't see a last place finish for the D-Backs, but a first or even second place finish would be quite a surprise.
4. Colorado Rockies, 77-85
I see the Rockies having a bounceback season from last, when they finished dead last in the NL West. I think CarGo and Tulo will regain their hitting prowess and make the Rockies one of the NL's best hitting teams again. But, like always, they have to work on their pitching.
5. San Diego Padres, 62-100
I don't know what it is about these guys, but I just can't see many wins this year from them. Someone has got to lose a ton of games in the NL, and this year I'm picking the Padres. Worst team in baseball? No. Worst team in the NL? Possibly.
AL East
1. Baltimore Orioles, 89-73
Who would have thought a couple years ago that the Orioles would have any shot of a division crown? They have arguably some of the best young talent in the division. The AL East, in my opinion, is the hardest division to predict for 2013. I'll pick the young O birds to come out in top. A good 12 months for Baltimore sports teams.
2. Tampa Bay Rays, 88-74 (Wild card)
What? No Red Sox OR Yankees in the top 2 in the AL East?! That has to be a first, right? No, but it hasn't happened in 21 years. There is too much young hitting with the O's and too much good young pitching with the Rays. They will barely miss the division, but get a wild card.
3. New York Yankees, 81-81
The Yankees without a winning record. Hasn't happened since 1992. But with injuries (Jeter), age (Rivera, Pettitte), and scandal (A-Rod) surrounding the team, I can see it happening. I know it's probably Mariano Rivera's last season, but I just don't see how he can have his dominant stuff. No storybook ending for him.
4. Toronto Blue Jays, 79-83
While I'd like to give the Blue Jays a better record, I just can't. They had probably the best offseason of any team, getting RA Dickey, Melky Cabrera, and Mark Buehrle. But like I've said earlier, too much talent in this division.
5. Boston Red Sox, 75-87
The turnaround won't happen overnight, even for the BoSox. New manager John Farrell won't do much, and with the BoSox not selling out all their games this year like they usually do, fan support will be down. But they'll come back, obviously. Just not this year.
AL Central
1. Detroit Tigers, 95-67
The reigning AL Champs will have an even better regular season than last, motivated by their loss in the World Series to the Giants. If they stay healthy and motivated, they're one of the best teams in the AL. Verlander will more than likely dominate again.
2. Cleveland Indians, 85-77
The Indians are my surprise pick for 2013, with 17 more wins than last year. They play in a division that isn't too difficult, and they made some great moves in the offseason, the best probably being hiring Terry Francona as manager. The Indians will break out and give the Tigers some competition, not just this year, but for years to come.
3. Chicago White Sox, 81-81
The ChiSox always seem to hover between mediocrity and decent for years and years. This year, I expect mediocrity. With the Indians breaking out, someone has to slide down in the division a bit, and that would be the White Sox.
4. Kansas City Royals, 75-87
The AL equivalent of the Pirates (Former contending team now a laughingstock), the Royals will have another ho-hum season. They made very few moves in the offseason and could have gotten a big haul of prospects for Billy Butler, but I guess the Royals have renounced their ways of letting good players go and just trying to hang with them.
5. Minnesota Twins, 67-95
Wow, an improvement of ONE game! What a turnaround! Joe Mauer for MVP! In all seriousness, however, the Twinkies will need more than a new park to return to prevalence.
AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 99-63
2013 will be the year for Los Angeles area baseball teams. The Angels were really mad after being TWO SPOTS behind the low-payroll Oakland A's last year. The same won't happen again. Hamilton, Pujols, Trout, and co. (Wow that's a lot of talent) will muscle their way to a division crown.
2. Texas Rangers, 90-72 (Wild Card)
Losing Hamilton will hurt. His presence, more than anything was felt throughout the clubhouse. Who is the big star of this team now? Elvis Andrus? Yu Darvish? Despite that, they will continue to compete and earn a wild card berth.
3. Oakland Athletics, 83-79
The A's do have a lot of good young players, but even the biggest of A's fans would admit last year had to do a bit with luck. Alas, their luck ran out and they lost to the Tigers in the division series. They will get back to that level some year, but not 2013.
4. Seattle Mariners, 79-83
Finally. Our Seattle Mariners. It just seems we are so slowly inching our way toward prevalence. Who knew the rebuilding process could take so freaking long? Nevertheless, I'll take an improved record any day. We just have to wait until one of our AL West contenders falls on their face, similar to the 2012 Boston Red Sox. But hey, at least we won't be in last place!
5. Houston Astros, 52-110
The Astros are such a laughingstock right now. Only one guy is making a million or more. Quick, name five Houston Astros players! I can only name one: Jose Altuve, only because he was their All-Star last season. It's odd to see a last place team 27 games behind.... the 4th place team, but it could happen. They might not beat the Angels or Rangers once this year.
2013 MLB Post-Season Predictions
Tie-breakers and wild cards:
NL Wild Card tiebreaker: Giants over Cardinals
NL Wild Card: Nationals over Giants
AL Wild Card: Rays over Rangers
Divisional Round:
NL: Nationals over Braves
Dodgers over Reds
AL: Angels over Rays
Tigers over Orioles
NL Championship: Nationals over Dodgers
AL Championship: Angels over Tigers
World Series: Angels over Nationals, 4-1
Award winners:
AL MVP: Mike Trout, Angels
NL MVP: Stephen Strasburg, Nationals
AL Cy Young: David Price, Rays
NL Cy Young: Stephen Strasburg, Nationals
AL Coach: Terry Francona, Indians
NL Coach: Fredi Gonzalez, Braves
AL Rookie: Wil Myers, Rays
NL Rookie: Darin Ruf, Phillies
There you have it. Again I pick a California team to win it all, but hey, I'm slightly west-cost biased. The Nationals advance to the World Series to make the Seattle Mariners the only current team to have never gone to the World Series. Congrats, Angels. Up next: My predictions for the Seattle Mariners.
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