Who Does Negan Kill? I Weigh the Odds

The sixth season of The Walking Dead is now over, and we are left with what is one of the biggest cliffhangers in TV history.  WHO DID NEGAN KILL?  Well, the good news is that the list of potential victims is finite, and we can pretty much eliminate a few names from the start.  They are (in alphabetical order): Aaron, Abraham, Carl, Daryl, Eugene, Glenn, Maggie, Michonne, Rick, Rosita, and Sasha.  I will go over each one and their chances.


Aaron
Chance: 3.5%
If Negan killed Aaron, it certainly wouldn't have much of an impact.  This particular death would only further enrage fans that we waited 6 months only to see Negan killed a secondary character.  Also, on Talking Dead, Scott M. Gimple talked about how the death of the character Negan kills will have a big impact on the rest of the characters.  I don't see that as a possibility with Aaron.  But if TWD continues its recent tradition of only killing off minor/secondary characters, then Aaron is an option.

Abraham
Chance: 25%
Abraham was my pick... BEFORE I watched the Season 6 finale.  The way Negan says "Taking it like a champ" suggests a tough character, and Abraham certainly is tough.  I feel the writers saved him from dying like Denise (how he did in the comics) to give him a more impactful, hero's death.  But something tells me I might be wrong about that. 

Carl
Chance: 0.000001%
Ok, Carl has basically NO shot of being Negan's victim.  First off, Negan mentioned how if anyone did anything he'd feed Carl's eye to Rick, as if they were separate from Negan and his chosen victim.  Also, if Negan did settle on Carl, I'd be shocked out of my wits if Rick didn't do something to try to stop him.  I'll eat a book if Carl is the one Negan killed.

Daryl
Chance: 17.5%
Why I think it could be Daryl: His death would certainly be impactful, and he would've "taken it like a champ". Why I don't think it could be Daryl: His death would almost be too impactful.  Killing off Daryl would upset way too many fans, and I don't think they're done with him yet.  Also, Daryl was clearly wounded by a gunshot and one hit from Lucille would've done him in more than likely.  So he's got a shot, but I'd be pretty surprised if it was indeed Daryl.

Eugene
Chance: 22%
The more I think about it the more I think it's Eugene.  I think he'd "take it like a champ" despite his apparent lack of toughness; Eugene has shown he has become a lot tougher than when he first made an appearance.  Also, his death would be heartbreaking and would certainly inspire Abraham, Rick, Rosita, and others to retaliate.  AND... with him standing up to Abraham, giving Rick his instructions on how to make bullets, it seems like the writers set him up to die.

Glenn
Chance: 27.5%
Glenn was the one Negan killed in the comics so he's a legitimate candidate here.  Although when Glenn acted out earlier Negan said that was a freebie, as if Glenn was safe.  His death would certainly be impactful as Glenn has strong connections to pretty much everyone else there.  The show does follow the comics a lot, but how much?  Enough as to where Negan's victims are the same?  Possibly.

Maggie
Chance: 0.5%
Maggie being Negan's victim has been speculated by a few but I'd be shocked if it was her.  First off, she wasn't in ANY condition to take a hit from Lucille and not immediately collapse.  Secondly, Negan stayed away from her in the comics (I believe) because she looked forlorn.  I'd be very, VERY surprised if it was her.

Michonne
Chance: 0.05%
Michonne has very, very little shot of being Negan's victim.  Why?  Because her death would upset WAY too many people.  First off, she's a fan favorite.  Second, she is black and would only further the cause that TWD is racist and kills off all its black characters.  She's a main character and while her death would be impactful (especially for Rick), it just won't be her.

Rick
Chance: 0.0000001%
Unless the writers have someone in mind to take Rick's spot as leader, it's not going to be Rick.  Imagine how defeated and broken all of the group would be if it was Rick.  Also, Negan wouldn't want to pick Rick and make him be seen as a martyr.  Finally, the last person Negan is seen pointing his bat at before moving on to his final choice is Rick; he clearly moves on to someone else. 

Rosita
Chance: 1%
Rosita's chances, like many others, are slim, because her death wouldn't be THAT impactful.  Also, I think Abraham would've surrendered himself for her (See Sasha).  I can't imagine it being Rosita at all.  Who could kill such a beautiful girl? 

Sasha
Chance: 2.5%
Sasha, like Michonne, is black and would enrage the people who think TWD is out to get its black characters.  However, her death has been rumored for a while and would have perhaps enough impact, especially with Abraham.  But she'd be such a dark horse, straight out of left field if she was chosen.  However, I will point out this: If Negan was indeed going left to right with his "Eeney meeney miney moe" game, he more than likely went one after Rick  (See Rick).  The person to the right of Rick as seen in an image shortly after Negan is introduced is Sasha (See above).

So, in summary, here they are by category:

Contenders:
Abraham
Daryl
Eugene
Glenn

Longshots:
Aaron
Rosita
Sasha
Michonne
Maggie

No way in hell:
Rick
Carl

Who will it be?  Perhaps TWD writers don't even know.  Unfortunately, we have to wait until October to find out.  The only real legitimate candidates are Abraham, Daryl, Eugene, and Glenn.  Two from the first season, two from Abraham's group.  October cannot get here soon enough.

Bonus: There has been a lot of speculation that perhaps Negan kills of TWO characters.  This would actually make a lot of sense.  Perhaps he kills one person, and then he's like "Nah, that didn't feel good enough" or someone else tries lashing out at him and pays the price.  My guess would be he kills a not so impactful character (Aaron, Sasha, Rosita), and just when we're thinking "Of course they didn't kill off a major character!" Negan goes and kills Glenn, Daryl, Abraham, or Eugene.  Could it be that he kills Rosita, and Abraham, still having feelings for her, tries to attack Negan in retaliation and Negan kills Abraham?  I could see it.

RECAP, SPOILERS: Could I have BEEN more right?!  My top two in terms of percentages (Glenn, 27.5 and Abraham, 25) were both killed off.  My theory that Negan might kill off two to be more impactful was ALSO true!  I thought the more impactful death would come first however, but I know this show too well.  Daryl was the one that lashed out and cost Glenn his life, something he'll have to live with.

My Final American Idol Post

American Idol, a TV sensation since I was 12 years old, has been around for over half of my life and is ending its run after 15 seasons.  I'm not afraid to admit I have been a big fan of the show (for the most part).  I didn't get into the show until season 3, and I took a hiatus from the show in seasons 12 and 13 (thanks to judging changes, mostly).  So I'll only be discussing seasons 3-11, 14 and 15 here.  I've already done a blog on my Top 10 American Idols ever, so I won't rank individual contestants.

First up, however, I will order the Top 5 of each season and how it should've finished.  In some special situations I will include a person who didn't make the Top 5.  Why Top 5?  Because it's a nice, round number and the fact that the current season is at the Top 5 stage now.

Season 3:
1. Jennifer Hudson
2. Fantasia Barrino
3. Diana DeGarmo
4. LaToya London
5. George Huff
Recap: Season 3 was definitely a female-dominated season.  J-Hud being eliminated in 7th is still one of the biggest shockers in AI history.  She clearly had the talent to win.  But after that the viewers did fairly decently in voting the best towards the end.

Season 4:
1. Carrie Underwood
2. Constantine Maroulis
3. Bo Bice
4. Vonzell Solomon
5. Anthony Federov
Recap: The fact that Scott Savol made the Top 5 is one of the biggest jokes in AI history.  I know what you're thinking: Who?!  At least the voters got the right winner this time.  Constantine should've made it farther, and it's a shame he was 6th and not 2nd.

Season 5:
1. Chris Daughtry
2. Katharine McPhee
3. Kellie Pickler
4. Taylor Hicks
5. Elliot Yamin
Recap: I feel like Chris Daughtry was just something the AI voters weren't ready for.  With seasons 7-11 we saw an influx of male rockers.  If he had auditioned a season or two later he would've won that respective season.  The voters just weren't ready to crown a rocker as the American Idol.  McPhee and Pickler have had decent careers, while Hicks and Yamin both made it farther than they should've.

Season 6:
1. Jordin Sparks
2. Melinda Doolittle
3. Blake Lewis
4. LaKisha Jones
5. Chris Richardson
Recap: This season was surprisingly devoid of much talent.  Jordin has become a very respectable recording artist, but no one else has done much.  I admit I was biased towards Blake Lewis when I watched this season, but he was still a Top 3 talent based on the lack of other talent.

Season 7:
1. David Cook
2. David Archuleta
3. Syesha Mercado
4. Carly Smithson
5. Jason Castro
Recap: The voters did fairly well this season.  Carly Smithson should've made it further than she did.  But other than that, no complaints here.  I wanted Archie to win it when it aired but in retrospect I see Cook was the better performer.

Season 8
1. Adam Lambert
2. Danny Gokey
3. Alison Iraheta
4. Kris Allen
5. Matt Giraud
Recap: The order that it actually happened makes me shake my head to this day.  Kris is one of the lowest selling AI winners ever, yet he had SERIOUS competition for the title, with three artists who each deserved to win it more than he did, especially Adam Lambert, one of my favorite contestants ever.  In a season full of flavor, a bland, dull artist won.

Season 9
1. Lee DeWyze
2. Siobhan Magnus
3. Crystal Bowersox
4. Didi Benami
5. Casey James

Recap: Season 9 is known by most as having the worst talent for any season.  Lee DeWyze is known as one of the worst, if not THE worst winner ever, yet you can't argue he didn't deserve to win because no one else could really make a claim.  I will say Siobhan Magnus should've made it much further, she was quite a talent.  Didi Benami was a joy to watch every week and I think was a surprise elimination.

Season 10
1. Haley Reinhart
2. Scotty McCreery
3. James Durbin
4. Lauren Alaina
5. Casey Abrams
Recap: Following a talent-less season we had a season chalked-full of talent, but boy did the voters screw things up.  The voters were clearly mainly country fans and voted the two country singers into the top 2.  Haley Reinhart gave some of the best AI performances ever (Bennie and the Jets, House of the Rising Sun) and finished third.  James had a range that rivaled Adam Lambert.  I give Scotty credit since he has done fairly well since AI so I give him 2nd.

Season 11
1. Phillip Phillips
2. Jessica Sanchez
3. Colton Dixon
4. Joshua Ledet
5. Skylar Laine
Recap: The voters didn't do too bad, but Colton should've made it further as well as Skylar.  Josh Ledet gave great performances but hasn't done much since AI.  But all in all they got the winner right.

Season 14
1. Clark Beckham
2. Nick Fradiani
3. Jax
4. Rayvon Owen
5. Sarina Joy-Crowe
Recap: Just a year later I can tell this season didn't have a ton of talent.  Clark should've won, with a vocal range like none other.  Jax and Rayvon were decent but in other seasons they'd finish 5th-10th.  Sarina was a surprise exit I thought; I had her making the final 4.

Season 15
1. LaPorsha Renae
2. Trent Harmon
3. Sonika Vaid
4. Mackenzie Bourg
5. Dalton Rapatoni
Recap: I don't know if I've seen a season where someone clearly stood a head above everyone else.  Adam Lambert was close in season 8, but he had competition (clearly).  But LaPorsha should definitely win the final season.  She has been giving powerhouse performance after powerhouse performance.  Trent is the best male vocalist of the season and should be the runner-up.  Sonika has been in danger the last few weeks but shouldn't be 5th (although she probably will be).  I have Mackenzie over Dalton because Mackenzie has a better sounding tone of voice.  Dalton is highly overrated and has gotten by largely due to his looks.

Now, onto something else with American Idol.  Ranking the seasons in terms of the amount of talent.  Not in the winner, but in the entire season.  Counting the final season, I will have seen 11 of 15 seasons.  Ranking them from worst to first:

11. Season 9 - Lee DeWyze over Crystal Bowersox and Casey James.  'Nuff said.
10. Season 14 - Who's going to have success here?  Nick?  Clark?  Jax?
9. Season 6 - So there's Jordin... but that's it.  Blake is decent, but no one else will do anything.
8. Season 15 - Gotta be honest... unless LaPorsha has a Jennifer Hudson-like career, this season is really lacking talent.  We'll see, though.
7. Season 11 - Phillip Phillips is decent, Sanchez is ok too, but... not much else
6. Season 4 - Carrie CARRIES this season... see what I did there?  They'd be one of the lowest ranked seasons in terms of talent if not for her.
5. Season 7 - Cook is decent, but not exactly a superstar.  After Archuleta, I have trouble remembering everyone else.
4. Season 5 - Chris and Kat, a deadly duo that should've been Top 2.
3. Season 3 - The divas make up  the talent here.  The lack of dude talent hurts, though.
2. Season 10 - Diversity, artistry, you name it.  No clear superstars, but a nice bunch of talent.
1. Season 8 - Adam Lambert.  'Nuff said.

Finally, I will pick the best person to finish at each spot, 12 through 1, in the show's run (including seasons I didn't watch).

12th: David Hernandez (Season 7), Runner Up: Sarina Joy-Crowe (Season 14)
David was a surprise at the time, I believe... but there were just too many David's that season.
11th: Alexis Grace (Season 8), Runner Up: Mikalah Gordon (Season 4)
Alexis was in a very talented season, and she just had a bad week if I remember correctly.
10th: Didi Benami (Season 9), Runner Up: Lisa Tucker (Season 5)
Didi was a surprise and should've made the end on a bad season.
9th: Pia Toscano (Season 10), Runner Up: Mandisa (Season 5)
Pia's elimination may have been the biggest shocker ever, with her being eliminated before guys like Paul McDonald and Stefano Langone.
8th: Michael Johns (Season 7), Runner Up: Nadia Turner (Season 4)
Michael Johns (RIP) was a surprise elimination, for sure.  Nadia Turner had us convinced she was the daughter of Tina Turner.
7th: Jennifer Hudson (Season 3), Runner Up: Colton Dixon (Season 11)
Now we're getting to the nitty-gritty.  As I said earlier Jennifer's exit was a shocker.  Colton had a decent shot at winning as well.
6th: Kellie Pickler (Season 5), Runner Up: Casey Abrams (Season 10)
Kellie has had a successful career, while the runner up was a toss-up between Casey and Constantine Maroulis.
5th: Jacob Lusk (Season 10), Runner Up: Skylar Laine (Season 11)
Not too many great singers in the 5 spot, but Jacob had such a range and Skylar had such a pure country voice.
4th: Chris Daughtry (Season 5), Runner Up: Josh Gracin (Season 2)
No question Daughtry is the best 4th place finisher ever.  Although I didn't see season 2 I know Gracin has done some good things.  Hard not to include James Durbin here.
3rd: Haley Reinhart (Season 10), Runner Up: Danny Gokey (Season 8)
It's a shame... I think more of these two than I do the singers who won the same season they were on.
2nd: Adam Lambert (Season 8), Runner Up: Clay Aiken (Season 2)
Adam is the best runner up ever.  And ha!  Clay is even a runner up here.
1st: Kelly Clarkson (Season 1), Carrie Underwood (Season 4)
Depending on personal preference you could swap these two but these are the two unquestioned two best winners.


I will finish with this: I will actually miss American Idol.  Will I watch "The Voice" or any other talent shows?  Probably not.  But I grew up with AI, daydreaming about auditioning and competing on American Idol.  Thanks for all the great music and memories, AI.

Where the Mariners Stand with Me

Last time I did a blog post on the Mariners, they were more than halfway into their 2015 season, but hadn't yet fired their GM or manager, which they eventually did.  I said I was done with them, done buying their merchandise or going to games and not watching them on TV as much.  I stood by that, not buying any Mariner merch since then and I didn't go to a game or really watch much in the last month or two.  As the season winded down, the Mariners made changes and it left Mariners fans like myself feeling an all too familiar feeling: Transition for the sake of progress.  We've seen this before with the M's, and it's gotten them nowhere, so that gives us little hope this time around it will be any different.

I think the general consensus after this offseason is muted optimism.  No one is expecting the Mariners to succeed this year, although some are saying they could be a surprise team.  The Mariners made a few good moves this offseason, but nothing too large like signing a huge free agent like has happened recently.  New General Manager Jerry Dipoto filled some holes at first, centerfield, catcher, and a corner outfield spot fairly well, with players that are more all-around players rather than big bats like Jack Zduriencik sought.  The lineup does look better and the rotation if healthy as a whole looks like a top 10 rotation, but the bullpen remains a question mark with new closer Steve Cishek.

Also, I won't be doing an official Mariners prediction blog post, because I don't want to burden this team with expectations nor be let down when or if they fail to meet them.  Consider this my predictions, more or less.

I don't really plan on going to any games this season, although there is the Star Wars weekend in August that I might have to attend, but other than that, my spending money will go very little if any towards the Mariners.  They need to prove to me that they're committed to winning and that the atmosphere in the organization has changed.  The Mariners are almost like the Cleveland Browns of baseball--no matter what moves they make, at least in the back of your mind you expect them to disappoint.

So what will happen this year?  It's hard to say.  A lot of things could happen, one of the worst possible things being a severe injury to Felix, Cano, Seager, or Cruz.  But if this team stays at least relatively healthy and plays as a unit, I could see this team surprising.  I really could.  I did, however, predict the Mariners to be in 2nd place in my MLB Predictions for 2016, although I had them missing out on the playoffs (again).

It's a wait and see approach with this team.  How this team does in the first few months will really show us the direction this team is headed.  Either fans will slowly hop on board the Mariners bandwagon or the Mariners will have lost all interest before the All-Star break.  Time will tell.  But, as a Mariner fan (more or less) until the day I die, I will finish with this: GO MARINERS!

2016 MLB Predictions!

The football season is over, and while baseball season is still over a month away from officially starting, it's never too early to get started on predictions.  I will rank each division from 1-5, with a short summary of how I think the division will go, plus some award and playoff predictions!  Fun, right?  Let's start in the NL East and move west, saving the AL West (And the Mariners) for last.

* = Wild Card

NL East
1. New York Mets
2. Washington Nationals
3. Miami Marlins
4. Philadelphia Phillies
5. Atlanta Braves
Summary: The NL East has turned into one of the worst divisions in baseball, but if the Nats and Marlins have good seasons it'll help the division overall.  The Mets emerged last season and if they hit well enough there won't be much stopping them.

NL Central
1. St. Louis Cardinals
2. Chicago Cubs*
3. Pittsburgh Pirates
4. Milwaukee Brewers
5. Cincinnati Reds
Summary: Everyone is jumping on the Cubs bandwagon, which means they'll probably underperform.  With the Cardinals in it every year, you can't go wrong picking them to win the division.  The Pirates will have a good season but there will be too much competition for them.

NL West
1. San Francisco Giants
2. Los Angeles Dodgers*
3. Arizona Diamondbacks
4. San Diego Padres
5. Colorado Rockies
Summary: I think the Giants improved the most of any team this offseason.  Their pitching should be dominant.  The Dodgers will be good again but losing Grienke and not finding an adequate replacement will hurt.  The Diamondbacks could surprise and be the Houston Astros of this year, but we'll see. 

AL East
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Toronto Blue Jays*
3. New York Yankees
4. Tampa Bay Rays
5. Baltimore Orioles
Summary: This division is so hard to predict now with every team being competitive.  Gut feeling: I think it will be a good year for the BoSox.  Yanks and Jays will be in it until the end.  The Orioles are due for a disappointing season, and really did nothing this offseason to improve their team.

AL Central
1. Kansas City Royals
2. Cleveland Indians*
3. Minnesota Twins
4. Detroit Tigers
5. Chicago White Sox
Summary: The Royals are a good team.  We know that for sure now.  The Indians will surprise and play good ball.  The Twins will also be a surprise and just miss out on a playoff spot.  The Tigers and White Sox have disappointing seasons.

AL West
1. Texas Rangers
2. Seattle Mariners
3. Houston Astros
4. Los Angeles Angels
5. Oakland Athletics
Summary: What's this?  The Mariners in 2nd place?  But... they miss the playoffs for the 15th straight season.  Astros will lose some of their magic from last year, and the A's and Angels will be mediocre at best.  The Rangers win the division with improved pitching and one of the best lineups in baseball.

Award Predictions!
AL MVP: Mike Trout (Who else?)
NL MVP: Buster Posey
AL Cy Young: Felix Hernandez
NL Cy Young: Matt Harvey
AL Rookie of the Year: Joey Gallo
NL Rookie of the Year: Corey Seager

Playoff Predictions:
NL Wild Card: Cubs over Dodgers
AL Wild Card: Indians over Blue Jays

NL Divisional: Cubs over Mets, Giants over Cardinals
AL Divisional: Royals over Indians, Rangers over Red Sox

NL Championship: Giants over Cubs
AL Championship: Rangers over Royals

World Series: Giants over Rangers

Well, there you have it.  My 2016 MLB Predictions.  It's an even year, so why not predict the Giants to win it? 

Cam Newton, Grow Up!

The Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers 24-10 in Super Bowl 50, and in doing so Cam Newton was unable to be MVP and Super Bowl champ in the same season.  Cam Newton in his post-game interviews gave childish responses such as "What do you want me to say?"  He also stormed off in the most immature way possible.  Cam Newton is a man-child.  He's a kid in a man's body.  And for some NFL players, that's not a bad thing.  Many wide receivers and running backs embrace their immaturity.  But as the face of his team and now, one of the faces of the NFL, Cam Newton needs to grow the hell up.

One of the best pieces of advice a coach can give a player, really in any sport, is to not get too high when you win or too down when you lose.  When Cam wins, he gloats.  There's a difference between celebrating and gloating.  Cam gloats.  He rips down signs and flags from opposing teams and throws them to the ground.  He runs around his stadium like he's on cloud 9, just to make sure the opposing team can see him.  He gets too high when he wins.  So, when he loses, he gets too down and becomes sulky and to be frank, rude.  These are the characteristics of a child.  Children are given participation trophies nowadays so they don't get too down for losses... seems like Cam Newton needs one too. 

Cam, as an NFL MVP, you are now one of the faces of the entire sport.  Kids will look up to you and try to emulate you (that means to copy, man-child).  Sure, having a unique celebration like the Dab or the Superman pose is fun for children, but when you are immature off the field as well you send the message to your fellow youngsters that it's ok to whine and pout when you lose, and to gloat in the other team's face when you win. 

Cam, just take a look at your good friend and fellow black quarterback, Russell Wilson.  He's not even a year older than you, yet he acts four times the age that you act.  He's humble in victory and gracious in defeat.  You know how the media are constantly getting at you, Cam?  You know how you might think they're trying to make you out to be a bad guy?  It's not because you're black.  It's because you're an immature quarterback.  You're right, you are one of a kind.  Name me a quarterback you're more mature than.  Kinda hard, huh?  Be more of a good guy like Russell.  Otherwise not even the Carolina faithful will support your childish antics.  

My Expectations and Excitement for Star Wars: The Force Awakens

(Spoiler-Free!)

In about 5 hours as I am typing this, I will be seeing the new Star Wars film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens (also known as Episode VII).  I am bristling with excitement in anticipation of seeing this film, as many are.  There are expectations for this film held by fans that it will at least be as good as the prequel trilogy, and it more than likely will be.  As for myself, I expect this to be the best combination of visuals and storytelling.

This is the first Star Wars film without any George Lucas involvement.  If his name appears in the credits it will only be to thank him for the characters (Han, Leia, Luke, etc.).  So I expect it to have at least a slightly different feel to it.  The cinematography and editing will be different, but the score by John L. Williams remains so that should bring some familiarity. 

All I want is for the characters to be deeper than the prequel trilogy characters.  Give the main trio (Finn, Rey, Poe) back stories and give them motivation to achieve their goals.  Also, the character I'm most curious about is Kylo Ren.  What drives him?  What made him the way he is?  Those questions might not get answered until a later film, but I'm still very eager to know.  As for Finn and Rey... are they descendants of any characters?  Do they have any connections at all?  Hopefully we find out. 

This is also the 2nd film in the Star Wars franchise to be given a PG-13 rating.  There will be some darker stuff included which leads me to believe a death is forthcoming.  Is it Han?  Luke?  Or will a character be introduced only to be killed off?  In the original trilogy, Grand Moff Tarkin was killed off in the first Star Wars film.  In the prequel trilogy, Darth Maul was killed off in the first film set chronologically.  Someone has to die in this one, more than likely a character who we as an audience would consider to be bad or evil.  Will it be Kylo Ren so soon? (I hope not).  Will it be General Hux (Dohmnall Gleeson)?  Will it be Captain Phasma (Gwendoline Christie)?  There's also a Supreme Leader Snoke played by Andy Serkis, who might be but isn't for sure evil. 

All I know is that it'll be very hard to disappoint us after a 10 year layoff from live action Star Wars films.  As long as Luke didn't go bad the movie should be pretty well-received.  I simply cannot wait.  See you guys then!  And may the Force be with us all.

My All Inclusive NFL Predictions!!!

In years past, I've often split my NFL predictions up, but this year I decided to combine it all into one giant post.  First off will be NFL predictions, then Seahawks.  Cannot believe the Seahawks play their first regular season game in less than 3 weeks.  It will be here before we know it.  First, my predictions (W/L) for each team and short thoughts on each team:
* = Wild Card
RED = Post-season recap

AFC EAST
1. New England Patriots: 10-6
Even though they're the defending Super Bowl champs, they have a chip on their shoulder.  One, they want to prove they can win it all fair and square, and two, they will have to without Tom Brady for four games who some feel was punished too harshly. 
This was before the Brady suspension was overturned.  Had it not been... who knows

2. Miami Dolphins: 9-7
Their defense will be Top 10 and Tannehill will be in the Top half of starting QB's, but will it be enough?  They'll make the AFC East as interesting as it's been in recent years.  I just don't think they have enough to get a playoff spot.  They're so close, though.
Their defense was not Top 10 (oops)... just a complete letdown from the Fins

3. New York Jets: 6-10
Todd Bowles will help the defense, but how will they score?  Fitzpatrick and Geno Smith aren't going to light up scoreboards.  Another year of disappointment for Jets fans.
I underestimated their offense, Fitzpatrick certainly is adequate.  Just a little short of the playoffs, though.

4. Buffalo Bills: 5-11
I believe that when mediocre teams (at best) get hype like the Bills have been getting, they fall flat on their faces.  And that's exactly what I believe the Bills will do.  They might get 7 or even 8 wins, but they've got no shot at the playoffs (Now watch them win 10+ games).  They just don't have a capable quarterback.  That will have to be their focus next offseason. 
They did win 8 games like I said they might.  Taylor made the pro bowl, but only as a replacement.  He's above average, but only slightly.  They need a better one to take them to the next level.


AFC NORTH
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: 11-5
The offense may not put up as good of numbers this season, but they'll do almost as good, which is definitely good enough.  Their defense has lost Polamalu, but they've got a lot of young talent (plus a new Def. Coordinator) that will surprise. 
Just one game worse, despite losing Bell and Big Ben for a few games.  But they did not win the AFC North like I thought they would.

2. Cincinnati Bengals: 9-7
Andy Dalton is a serviceable quarterback, but I think Cincy may soon give up on him and he'll be a career backup from that point on.  I just don't think the Bengals did enough this offseason to improve. 
Dalton is more than serviceable, but his injury killed their chances of any playoff run.  They need to solidify his spot and maybe get rid of some knuckleheads.

3. Baltimore Ravens: 8-8
I predict a slightly down year for the birds in black.  They'll look good some games but bad in others.  Joe Flacco, already on the decline?  That's not an impossibility. 
Did I say slightly down year?  I meant a BIG down year.  They just lost a lot of close games and had some tough injuries.

4. Cleveland Browns: 6-10
Another year, another losing record.  The Browns MAY surprise this year, but whenever I predict a year to be the Browns' surprise season, they let me down and suck.  So prove me wrong again, Browns!
I wasn't really thinking they'd do even worse, but the Browns always find new levels of suckitude.

AFC SOUTH
1. Indianapolis Colts: 12-4
Is there any team you can easily pencil in as the division champs already?  If there is one, it's the Colts.  Every other team in their division is trying to just improve, but it's slow for each of them.  One could surprise and make it tough on the Colts, but I don't see it being that close. 
Whoops.  Oh well.  Who saw this coming, though?

2. Houston Texans: 8-8
Brian Hoyer--while I like his name, I just don't think he's a quality starter in the NFL.  The Texans will compete with their defense and running game but if they fall behind it'll be tough for them to come back.
Just one game better... but not having a legit QB hurt them like I knew it would.

3. Tennessee Titans: 7-9
Marcus Mariota will have his ups and downs, but I think for the most part he'll look like a future star.  He won't be a star quite yet this year but he'll show signs of promise. 
I overestimated Mariota's teammates.  The Titans suck. 

4. Jacksonville Jaguars: 5-11
I hate to say it (As the Jaguars are my favorite AFC Team), but the Jaguars still won't be able to turn it around.  Gus Bradley might get canned.  I like Blake Bortles, but the defense is still a bit of a question mark as is their O-Line and running game. 
They finished with the record I predicted, Yay....!  Their defense was more than a question mark... they just weren't there.

AFC WEST
1. Denver Broncos: 13-3
If the Denver young O-Line can hold it together for Peyton and the running game, Denver will be VERY tough to beat.  Their defense will be their best in YEARS.  They're going to focus on the run and it should work.  I might be overestimating this team, but I'd be shocked if they didn't make the playoffs.
Only one game worse and they won their division again.  I was so right about their defense.

2. San Diego Chargers: 10-6*
San Diego always seems to be sneaky good--and they'll be that again this year.  Phillip Rivers--it's about time he accomplished something.  (Read below for more info)
Oops again.  Six games off... yikes.  

3. Kansas City Chiefs: 10-6*
Kansas City's defense will be one of the AFC's best, and their offense should be good enough.  I don't think Alex Smith is good enough to get them to the promised land, though.  But yes, three teams from the AFC West in the playoffs.
Nope, only two AFC West teams but one of them was the Chiefs like I predicted.  But after their bad start I was ready to say I was wrong. 

4. Oakland Raiders: 7-9
They just can't break through, can they?  This year it'll be because of too much competition in their division.  You'll see: They'll do MUCH better outside their division than in it.  Derek Carr I think is the real deal but they gotta wait until there's a team in the AFC West (Chiefs, Chargers) willing to take their spot in the basement of the AFC West.
Exact record I predicted.  KC and Denver are too tough... maybe with Peyton probably retiring Oakland can surge?

NFC EAST
1. New York Giants: 9-7
This division gets a lot of attention, but this season they'll suck.  The Giants are a decent team and Eli and Co. will secure a division win.  Barely.
They were half-way decent but not good enough to win a bad division, which I knew this would be.

2. Dallas Cowboys: 8-8
Back to going 8-8, haha!  Jason Garrett gets fired and Romo has to contemplate retirement.  Losing DeMarco Murray will hurt them more than they thought it would. 
Romo's injury set them way back.  While most others predicted playoffs for the Cowboys (Dummies), I knew they wouldn't.  They don't have good back to back seasons.  

3. Philadelphia Eagles: 6-10
They sure made a lot of moves/noise in the offseason and it's going to BACKFIRE.  Tebow will start a game, I predict (Bradford and/or Sanchez hurt/struggling).  Chip Kelley will be another coach on the hot seat.
It did backfire, but Tebow did not start, haha.  Kelley was on the hot seat, as he was fired.  Pretty solid call here.

4. Washington Redskins: 4-12
You ever going to stop sucking, Redskins?  Not this year, I predict.  RGIII thinks he's one of the best but he'll be lucky to be all in one piece at season's end with their shaky O-Line.  Jay Gruden, goodbye.
Oops.  Well, someone had to be halfway decent.  RGIII wasn't their focus, Cousins was.  

NFC NORTH
1. Green Bay Packers: 12-4
Losing Jordy Nelson certainly doesn't help, but they'll make do without him.  I think with Aaron Rodgers as your QB a lot of receivers can have success.  They'll be a team on a mission, hungry to make their first Super Bowl in five years.
They did make do without him, but their o-line struggled with injuries.  

2. Minnesota Vikings: 10-6*
They should have some entertaining games with the Pack and getting Peterson back will definitely help.  I am really liking their improving D, which I think will surprise a lot of people.  Teddy Bridgewater, meanwhile, will continue to improve.
Pretty much right about everything.  They did just one game better than I thought they would.

3. Detroit Lions: 7-9
What happened?  Hard to say.  Detroit's not really an organization that's been known for sustaining success, so I see a decline here.  Losing Ndamukong Suh will hurt, and their defense will struggle.
Yep, yep yep.  7 and 9 record, yep.  Couldn't have been more right. 

4. Chicago Bears: 5-11
Good luck John Fox.  Bears fans hate Jay Cutler, the defense needs a rebuild (for the most part) and they are a complete shell of a team that made the playoffs a few seasons ago. 
Just one game better than I thought.  They're getting better, but slowly.

NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints: 10-6
The Saints will benefit from beating their division (6-0 or 5-1 div. record, probably).  I'm not completely enamored with them (They did lose Jimmy Graham, after all), but they still have a capable Drew Brees and a running game that's above average. 
Oops.  Their defense really struggled, something I didn't even think about happening.  

2. Carolina Panthers: 8-8
Losing Kelvin Benjamin hurts for sure.  Funny, this year they'll have a better regular season record but no playoffs.  Who is there to help Cam and the defense?  Not a whole lot.
My bad.  Apparently they have a decent o-line, decent receivers without Benjamin, and of course, Greg Olsen.  

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-9
I think they'll be a fun team to watch with Jameis Winston and a healthy Doug Martin.  They are going to upset a few teams that won't think too much of the Bucos. 
Overestimated both rookie QB's teams, but the Bucs came close to 7-9.  

4. Atlanta Falcons: 5-11
Another former Seahawks defensive coordinator goes to a team that's been struggling and won't be able to lead the team out of the basement.  We all wish you luck, Dan Quinn, but outside of a good QB and star receivers your team is lacking talent. 
They had a great start but finished with a dud.  They just benefited from an extremely easy schedule.

NFC WEST
1. Seattle Seahawks (?-?)
Ha!  You're going to have to continue reading to see my Seahawks predicted record!  But I do have them repeating, yet again, as NFC West division champs.  More below on my thoughts on the team. 

2. St. Louis Rams* (9-7)
WHAAAT?  No Cardinals here?  Nope.  The Rams are sneaky good, and Jeff Fisher will find ways to win.  I think I've picked them to surprise with a winning record a few times and each time I do they fail, so I'm doing it yet again. 
And AGAIN the Rams fail to live up to my prediction for them.  They just need a quality QB.  And it wasn't Nick Foles.

3. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
Carson Palmer is fragile and aging.  Their defense is good, but they just lost their defensive coordinator.  The Cardinals still do not scare me. 
My bad.  Palmer still has some in the tank.  Losing your D coordinator shouldn't hurt that much, I should know, looking at the Hawks losing two of them. 

4. San Francisco 49ers (6-10)
They're not going to just roll over, but it's hard to see this team winning 8 or more games.  Morale must have taken a hit this offseason. 
Pretty much hit the nail on the head with this one.  

Before I get to the playoffs predictions, here is are Seahawk predictions, game by game (and team leaders!)

Week 1, @ Rams: Win, 23-21 (1-0)
Time for some payback.  The Hawks need a good start, and losing this game going into Green Bay would not be good.  Hawks may fall behind at some point but I could see a last minute Hauschka field goal to win it.
Dang Hawks.... but if Chancellor had played who knows?

Week 2, @ Packers: Loss, 31-23 (1-1)
I think the Hawks will more than likely start 1-1, especially with their first two games on the road.  Most fans would be ok with that, so long as they can generate a winning streak later.  This is a tough matchup and while a win wouldn't shock me, a loss is very possible.
Knew this game would be tough.  

Week 3, vs. Bears: Win, 34-13 (2-1)
Every year it seems the Hawks have a fun, easy win against an inferior opponent, and this year it'll be the Bears.  Can't wait to see the D feast on Jay Cutler and the Bears offense.
Also they played against Jimmy Clausen.  

Week 4, vs. Lions: Win, 33-17 (3-1)
This one won't be too close either.  One, the Hawks are virtually unbeatable in home primetime games.  Two, I predict the Lions to have a drop off this season so they're not exactly the Packers. 
Actually, it was about as close as it gets.  Early offensive struggles caused that.

Week 5, @ Bengals: Loss, 23-16 (3-2)
Ever since the Hawks joined the NFC in 2002, they have lost at least one game to an AFC opponent EVERY SINGLE YEAR.  Even in their 13-3 Super Bowl seasons.  Usually that game's on the road and often it's the first AFC game.  So, it's not about the Hawks not being good enough, it's about following tradition!
Yep... always lose to an AFC team.  Knew it.  Prove me wrong one year, Hawks!

Week 6, vs. Panthers: Win, 20-12 (4-2)
Three kitty mascots in a row, and the Hawks should win a tough "dog" fight here.  The Panthers will be seeking revenge for last year's playoff loss but won't get it. 
They were seeking revenge and they got it... twice.  Ugh. 

Week 7, @ 49ers: Win, 28-17 (5-2)
We might make this closer than it should be or not be able to pull away until late, but I think the Hawks end up on top.  Can't just assume the Niners will roll over.  They remember last year's Thanksgiving scha-lacking we gave them. 
Pretty much what I said.  

Week 8, @ Cowboys: Loss, 28-27 (5-3)
I can't remember the last time the Hawks won in Big D.  It might happen this year, but I can't say it will in my prediction here.  Should be a close and fun game to watch, though.  A lot of our Hawks will remember the loss at home we suffered to the Cowboys last season.
We played a much worse Cowboys team than I thought we would, and BARELY beat them.  But yay, a win in Big D!

Week 9, BYE

Week 10, vs. Cardinals: Win, 16-13 (6-3)
Won't be pretty, but the Hawks should get the job done.  Coming off a bye the Hawks should be rested and ready for possibly their biggest test to get the division crown. 
More of an offensive game than I thought it'd be.... gave up 39 points rather than 13... ouch.

Week 11, vs. 49ers: Win, 30-10 (7-3)
The few 49ers fans that show up at this game, well I tip my cap to them because they've got guts.  These two home games against division foes after a bye are almost both must-wins, regardless of the Hawks record at the time. 
Again, 49ers were what I expected. 

Week 12, vs. Steelers: Win, 31-24 (8-3)
The Steelers offense with the three B's (Ben, Brown, Bell) will probably give the LOB some fits, but I think the Hawks win this.  Hawks haven't beaten the Steelers since 2003, when Russell Wilson was 14!  Three home games in a row should mean three wins, but none of the three are pushovers. 
Offensive game, yep, win by about a touchdown, yep.  

Week 13, @ Vikings: Loss, 27-17 (8-4)
If the Vikings surprise like I predicted, this will be a tough game to win.  I think Peterson could run over us.  Don't see many good things out of this game. 
Haha I love it when the Hawks win when I predict losses, but I love it even more when they blow them out!

Week 14, @ Ravens: Win, 24-16 (9-4)
I think the Hawks will again split the road trip (like Weeks 1 and 2) and you could flip flop which is a win and which is a loss, but I'm gonna say the Hawks beat the Ravens. 
They didn't split the road trip, they actually won both.

Week 15, vs. Browns: Win, 42-10 (10-4)
Ok, it probably won't be that lopsided, but I can dream, can't I?  It might be that lopsided if the Browns have given up on the season and put Johnny Football in at QB.  This game is a must-win, because the Browns should be beatable at CenturyLink.
No, it wasn't that lopsided... Browns put up a fight. 

Week 16, vs. Rams: Win, 23-19 (11-4)
Again, can't look past the Rams, and I wouldn't be shocked if the Hawks lost the game looking ahead to Week 17.  I'll predict they almost let the game get away, but don't.
They did lose... but not because they were looking ahead.  Because the lines (Both D and O) got manhandled. 

Week 17, @ Cardinals: Win, 14-10 (12-4)
I think the Hawks will have the division locked up at this point so their offense won't need to be in fourth gear.  The Cardinals, meanwhile... who knows.  Also, if the Hawks lost this game I'd have them at 3-5 on the road... yikes.
Won in much easier fashion because the Cardinals really had nothing to play for. 

We know who will lead the passing and rushing statistics, but what about receiving and defense?
Receptions: Baldwin YEP
Receiving Yards: Lockett Nope it was Baldwin again, but Lockett was almost 2nd, right behind Kearse
Receiving TD's: Graham Maybe if he hadn't gotten injured... he did get injured right as Russell was finding his groove
Sacks: Bennett YEP
Tackles: Wagner Actually was KJ Wright, but Wagner was just FOUR behind him
Interceptions: Sherman Actually was Thomas, but Sherm was tied for 2nd
Offensive unsung hero: Tyler Lockett Well it was either him or Rawls... good call
Defensive unsung hero: DeShawn Shead He did have a good seeason... but I'd give that award to Lane coming back from injury

So 12-4 is what I predict the record to be!  And based on my predicted records, here are the playoff seedings!
Oh well.  Could've won either St. Louis game, or Carolina/Cincy games.  Coulda shoulda woulda.

afc
1. broncos, 13-3
2. Colts, 12-4
3. Steelers, 11-5
4. Patriots, 10-6
5. Chargers, 10-6
6. Chiefs, 10-6

NFC
1. Packers, 12-4
2. Seahawks, 12-4
3. Saints, 10-6
4. Giants, 9-7
5. Vikings, 10-6
6. Rams, 9-7

And of course you want me to do it!  Playoff predictions!

AFC Wild Card:
(6) Chiefs at (3) Steelers: Steelers win
The Chiefs STILL cannot win a playoff game.  Poor Chiefs.
The Chiefs DID win a playoff game... over the 9-7 Texans.  Steelers won their first game, though.

(5) Chargers at (4) Patriots: Chargers win
UPSET ALERT!   Also... karma's a bitch
Haha my bad.

NFC Wild Card:
(6) Rams at (3) Saints: Rams win
I feel like the better I predict the Rams to do, the worse they'll ACTUALLY do.  I see the Rams as a tougher and more physical team and for that reason I give them the edge.
Two teams who were eliminated from the playoffs in November.  Again, my bad. 

(5) Vikings at (4) Giants: Giants win
The last time I recall the Vikings and Giants playing a playoff game at the Giant's home stadium, it was the 2000 NFC Championship Game and the Giants CRUSHED the Vikings, 41-0.  It'll be the same result, but not as lopsided.
Vikings lost their only playoff game like I predicted.  The NFC East winner did not win a playoff game.  I should've known. 

AFC Divisional:
(5) Chargers at (1) Broncos: Chargers win
UPSET ALERT AGAIN!  WHAAAAAAT?  Peyton Manning contemplates retirement after this game.  Chargers all the way.
My bad, ok?!

(3) Steelers at (2) Colts: Colts win
Tough pick here, but I give the edge to the Colts in what would probably be a shootout. 
Sigh

NFC Divisional:
(6) Rams at (1) Packers: Packers win
Yeah, this is a no-brainer.  I don't see the Packers losing their first playoff game.
Packers did win a playoff game

(4) Giants at (2) Seahawks: Seahawks win
Giants will make it interesting... at first.  Eli Manning has a history of winning road playoff games so the Hawks would have to be careful. 
As did the Seahawks...

AFC Championship Game:
(5) Chargers at (2) Colts: Colts win
Phillip Rivers and the Chargers dream run ends. 
Man way to let me down Chargers and Colts

NFC Championship Game:
(2) Seahawks at (1) Packers: Packers win
I hate to say it.  I really do.  But the Packers will want this game more, I think.  Aaron Rodgers won't lose on his home turf.  Hawks will put up a fight but come up short.  :'(
Seahawks lose on the road... yep.  Lost to a team starting with the letters PA who they beat last year in the playoffs... yep.  Haha.

Super Bowl 50:
Packers over Colts, 31-28

This would be a dream matchup for the NFL.  Two of the faces of the NFL, Rodgers and Luck, facing off in a fun, exciting game.  Packers won the first Super Bowl and they'll win the 50th. 
My bad.  

So there you have it, folks.  I know, I really wanted to pick the Hawks to win the Super Bowl but it was too hard for me to do.  I was trying to be right more than hoping I would be right.  Before I go, lastly is my picks for NFL Awards:

NFL MVP: Aaron Rodgers, Packers Nope, Newton
NFL Offensive POY: Andrew Luck, Colts Newton again
NFL Defensive POY: Luke Kuechly, Panthers How could I forget about JJ Watt?
NFL Offensive ROY: Tyler Lockett, Seahawks He was in the running...
NFL Defensive ROY: Trae Waynes, Vikings I knew it'd be a D-back... good job to Peters
NFL Pepsi ROY: Todd Gurley, Rams He actually got the other ROY award... this one went to Winston

That is all for now, but before I go, two last words:

GO HAWKS!!!