Ever since the vaulted Chiefs offense of 2018/19 did not get an opportunity to take the field in overtime of the 2019 AFC Championship game, NFL fans (mostly Chiefs) have clamored for a change to the NFL overtime rules. They want both teams to have an opportunity to possess the ball. And I have to admit, I agree. If two teams meet, and each team has a great offense and sub-par defense, the coin flip really does determine who wins the game. I know it's been 7 months since that AFC Championship game, but I have just thought of a solution to fix overtime in the NFL. I want to add that I have modified my original overtime proposal which allowed games to extend beyond two possessions. This does not (unless it is a playoff game).
Here is my solution: Each team gets one opportunity to possess the ball on offense. The only exception being if the defense scores on the first possession. If the first team to possess the ball scores, the opposing team will get one shot to tie or beat them. After those two possessions, the game is over. If the game is tied after two scoring possessions, the game becomes a tie (unless it's a playoff game). If the first team to possess the ball gets a TD and goes for two and succeeds, that means the best the opposing team can do is tie the game. If it was a playoff game, they'd have to get a touchdown and two point conversion to keep the game going. I must add that in this version of overtime, there is no game clock, just like in college. Just possessions and a play clock.
Confused at all? I wouldn't blame you if you were. Here are some hypotheticals (and we'll use the Patriots and Chiefs to make it easy). And we are using regular season overtime rules (unless otherwise specified).
- The Patriots get the ball first in overtime and kick a field goal. The Chiefs then kick a field goal. The game would then be a tie. In the playoffs, the Patriots would get the ball back, now with the game in sudden death mode.
- The Patriots get the ball first in overtime and score a touchdown and get the ensuing PAT. The Chiefs get the ball themselves and score a touchdown as well. They kick the PAT as well. This would result in a tie. The Chiefs could go for two points, and if they successfully get it, they win the game. If they fail to get it, they lose. Talk about drama.
- The Patriots get the ball first in overtime and score a touchdown and get the two point conversion. The Chiefs would then get an opportunity to match. If they don't, the game obviously ends with a Patriots victory. If they do, the game ends in a tie. In the playoffs, they would continue to play now under sudden death (next score wins).
- The Patriots get the ball first and either punt or turn the ball over. The Chiefs get the ball. Any score wins it for them. If they fail to score at least a field goal (because with the offense on the field, they can't score a safety), the game ends in a tie. In the playoffs, the game would continue until someone scores.
I hope that clarifies things. This way, both teams get a chance to possess the football, and the game always ends after two possessions, unless it's the playoffs. The interesting scenario this creates is for the second team to possess the ball. Do they go for the tie or the win? I'd say 90%+ of the time you go for the win; one exception being if a loss knocks you out of the playoffs, but a tie or win and you're in the playoffs.
Here are the pros and cons of this format.
PROS:
- Both teams get a chance to go for the win if they so choose, unless the first team gets a TD and 2 point conversion. If the first team does get both, then the second team loses the ability to go for the win.
- Would make for exciting and dramatic football as we could see a lot of "Do or Die" plays
- Would make for a lot of interesting and tough coaching decisions (Go for 2? Go for it on 4th? Kick or receive?)
- It's about as fair as OT can be to whoever wins the toss, and I could see some teams wanting the ball first while others want it second
CONS:
- Can be a tad confusing
- There could be an increase in the number of ties since any teams that do the same in the overtime period would count as a tie.
- This could increase the amount of time players have to play in overtime if they're always forced to play at least two possessions.
To counter those three cons I listed, for the first one, I came up with a simplified way of explaining these rules and it is this: Each team gets one possession. Whoever does better wins. If they do the same, they tie. That's it. Once people get used to these rules, they become very easy to explain.
Secondly, it's hard to really say if the number of ties would increase. If just one team scores, the chance that there will be a tie dramatically drops, because the second team to possess the ball more than likely won't go for a tie. And with defenses that have been on the field for a half hour each (on average) already, it means offenses playing against gassed defenses and more than likely, one of the offensive units would get at least a field goal. Also, you would not see many teams "going for a tie", such as kicking a field goal when the other team kicked a field goal, because a head coach would instantly and forever be harshly criticized for not having the courage to go for the win.
Thirdly, this could indeed increase on average the amount of time overtime periods go. Right now, overtime can end on one possession. It still could now (if there's a defensive score), but most often we'd see two possessions. My argument is that I think players would be willing to play a bit more for a better chance to win the game. Think back to the AFC Championship game this past season. I'd guarantee each of those Chiefs offensive players, from QB Patrick Mahomes to the offensive linemen, they all wanted to go back out there. They all wanted one more shot. There are only 16 games a season plus a maximum of 4 playoff games for one team. Each game is critical, and everyone on the team would love a shot to go out and win a game that goes to overtime. Let's give them that shot.
Sunday, August 18, 2019
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
2019 Seahawks Predictions!
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!!!
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!!!
My 2019 NFL Predictions!
It's my favorite time of year... almost. The NFL season is almost upon us and I am as excited for this year as I think I've been for any season. Will this be my most extensive predictions yet? Judge for yourself. Usually I go division by division and discuss how I think the division will shape up, but this time I will go team by team discussing what I think of them. Also new to this year is I do a four word game for each team. I use four words to best describe their outlook on 2019 (and often about the quarterback position). I got the idea from Colin Cowherd, who does a three word game for NFL teams on his show. Look out for the 2nd part in which I discuss the Seahawks Win/Loss Record in more detail, and I go over each game. An asterisk after a team's W/L record means they got a wild card spot.
Edit: With Andrew Luck's abrupt retirement, I had to adjust a few things, mainly the Colts season but also a couple others who are in their division.
AFC East
1. New England Patriots 11-5: Won't stop anytime soon
Is there any question? The Patriots still remain the favorites in the AFC East. Towards the end of last year Brady showed some signs of his age, and I think that'll creep in earlier this year, costing the Patriots a few games down the stretch. They'll still win the AFC East easily, of course because they have a bunch of young, talented players. Not until Brady and Belichick retire will this train stop and they have given zero indications that they will soon. However, for the first time in years they will not have a first round bye.
2. New York Jets, 8-8: Offensive progress or bust
The Jets are many people's dark horse team. Every year we see teams come out of nowhere to claim a playoff spot or division title. I'm unsure if that will be the Jets. They have Bell and C.J. Mosely, and Sam Darnold will be going into his 2nd year and is now under the tutelage of first year head coach Adam Gase. So this offense needs to make strides otherwise it could be a LONG time before the Jets make the playoffs again. Odds are they will, however. This team could go 10-6, but I'll stick with the safe pick of 8-8.
3. Buffalo Bills, 6-10: Old backs, young gun
Josh Allen goes into his second year (hence the young gun), but unlike Mayfield and Darnold won't taste too much success in his sophomore season. The old backs are LeSean McCoy and Frank Gore. The Bills will be competitive and shouldn't get blown out much, but they just don't have enough talent to win many games late.
4. Miami Dolphins, 5-11: Rosen gets screwed... again?
The Fins continue their QB carousel, as they moved on from what they hoped to be the first legit QB since Marino in Ryan Tannehill, but he never could get them over the hump. Now they'll go with a combination of Ryan Fitzpatrick and Josh Rosen. I expect to see a bit more of Rosen. I'll be honest, the Dolphins could be a team that surprises and wins 8 or 9 games, especially if Rosen breaks out. But if Rosen doesn't and the Fins struggle, they could draft a QB with their first pick next year, meaning Rosen gets screwed over by his team again.
AFC North
1. Pittsburgh Steelers, 10-6: Less entertaining, so what?
First off, I don't expect the AFC North to be that good this season. Too many teams lost significant players. The Steelers were one of them. But they still have a great core of players. They still have James Conner and Juju Smith-Schuster, two Pro Bowl caliber players. But their quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, will show signs of age. Despite that, yet again they'll win just enough to secure a division title thanks to lesser competition in their division.
2. Cleveland Browns, 9-7*: Hot start, cool finish
I think the Browns are a bit overhyped. I also think OBJ is a bit of locker room cancer. There's just too many egos on this team, and Mayfield is not the type of leader to keep things level-headed and calm the storm. I think they could get off to a good start and get people thinking Super Bowl (7-2 maybe?) but then come crashing back down to earth and lose a lot of their remaining games to fall to 9-7. This team is built to win early, but not late, but it will just be enough in a bad AFC.
3. Baltimore Ravens, 6-10: Lamar gets figured out
One of my bolder predictions this season is I predict the Ravens to have a bad year, culminating in a losing record. I don't think Lamar Jackson can succeed in the NFL long term. Much like his understudy, RGIII, he will have a disappointing sophomore season. The losses of Suggs and Moseley hurts them, and Earl Thomas probably gets hurt again, showing he just can't stay healthy anymore.
4. Cincinnati Bengals, 4-12: Hurt for Justin Herbert?
The Bengals are considered an afterthought right now. Not many people are going to want to tune in to watch a Bengals game. I don't see them going 2-14 or 1-15 but they are going to find it very difficult to pass any team in their division this year. I expect them to get a high draft pick and pick a QB in the 2020 draft, possibly Justin Herbert. They'll need to find Dalton's successor soon if he struggles at all in 2019, which is to be expected.
AFC South
1. Tennessee Titans, 10-6: Mariota's health is key
This team is just solid. I don't know what else to say. I like Mike Vrabel as a coach and I think the Titans get a few lucky breaks this year. Also, Mariota doesn't put up scoreboard shattering numbers, but he does make a lot of clutch plays late in games to make the Titans organization believe in him even more. But the main concern is his health, and if he can play solid quarterback with few to no injuries, the Titans will have a real good shot at the playoffs.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars, 8-8: Strive for mediocre, well...
These cats are mad. They had to be disgusted with themselves, following up a AFC Championship-berth season with 5 win season. However, they will face too much competition in the AFC and will only be average at best. They went out and got Nick Foles, who has yet to prove he can win outside of Philadelphia. He's an average quarterback at best when he's not on the Eagles. So when you strive for average, that's what you get.
3. Indianapolis Colts, 7-9: No More Luck Here
The Colts literally no longer have Luck after his abrupt retirement. You could expect this team to collapse and crumble, but I don't think they will. I think they play mostly inspired football, but without a true franchise quarterback, they'll struggle to win close games. Fortunately for them, Jacoby Brissett is one of the better backup quarterbacks in the NFL, but there's a reason he's a backup.
4. Houston Texans, 6-10: Good luck Deshaun... seriously
You probably weren't expecting the reigning AFC South division champs here, were you? Well, did you expect the Jaguars to go from division champs to 5-11? Probably not. Anyway, my reasoning is something unfortunate that happens in the NFL: Injuries. Namely, I'm talking about an injury to Deshaun Watson. I hate predicting injuries, but with his horrible offensive line, I'm afraid it might happen. I hope I'm wrong. Good luck Deshaun. Also, losing Lamar Miller hurts, and their running game takes a hit as a result.
AFC West
1. Kansas City Chiefs, 13-3: Gotta beat the best
Going into 2018, the Chiefs didn't exactly know what they had in Patrick Mahomes so they weren't sure how to feel about the season. Now that they do, they've got nothing less of Super Bowl aspirations. They added the Honey Badger and former Seahawk Frank Clark. And, I think one of the surprises for 2019, Mecole Hardman. Remember that name. He's a speedster in the mold of Tyreek Hill. And speaking of Hill, boy are the Chiefs lucky he wasn't suspended. There was thought the Chiefs might have to cut him like they did Kareem Hunt. Now, with Hill and Hardman, if teams double Hill, Mahomes will be able to get the ball easily to Hardman. Watch out. In order for this to be a successful season, they'll have to beat the best, which of course is the Patriots. Couldn't do it last year in two opportunities. They'll get at least one shot this year.
2. Los Angeles Chargers, 10-6*: Chiefs in the way
I know this Chargers team expects big things in 2019, with notable young stars like Derwin James and Mike Williams. Barring injuries, they should compete well enough to get a winning record and a wild card spot. Like with Brady and Roethlisberger, however, I think Rivers could show signs of age as well. Hey, someone's bound to. However good they do, the Chiefs will probably do just as well. They'll either need a significant injury or collapse from the Chiefs, or just go on a run in the playoffs.
3. Denver Broncos, 8-8: Stuck in just average
Boy would it suck for Flacco if he lost his job to a rookie two years in a row. Flacco will begin the season as the starter but Drew Lock could take over if the team or Flacco struggle. I think they'll have an up and down season, but ultimately will have to look towards the future with Lock. This team screams average, with only a few notable exceptions like Von Miller.
4. Oakland Raiders, 6-10: Hard Knocks the highlight
Boy will it be fun to watch the Raiders on "Hard Knocks" this season. If Antonio Brown can stay healthy and out of trouble, he should add a spark to the Raiders offense and make them entertaining. But if the Raiders struggle too much, Gruden might have to make a tough decision to move on from Derek Carr and draft a QB in 2020. But more than likely the Raiders will struggle, leaving Hard Knocks as the lone highlight.
NFC East
1. Philadelphia Eagles, 10-6: Wentz healthy or else
Can Carson Wentz finally stay healthy all year? If he doesn't, Eagles fans will be very concerned for their future at the QB position. The Eagles are a good team, but it's not like their division is going to be really tough, especially the bottom 2. Jordan Howard will prove the Bears should never have let him go. The Eagles have enough talent to succeed, but with Foles no longer available as a security blanket, they'll need Wentz to stay healthy for a successful season.
2. Dallas Cowboys, 9-7: Zeke is not needed
I'm torn on these guys. On one hand, I want to predict a first round bye, but on the other, I want to predict them missing the playoffs entirely. I went with the latter. There's too much drama around this team thanks to Ezekiel Elliot. He's holding out, but the Cowboys don't need him. They're still a very good (if not better) team without him. And Dak Prescott is a very solid QB and improved once he got Amari Cooper. Will Garrett finally get the axe? Maybe Jerry Jones will just figure enough is enough and move on after the season.
3. Washington Redskins, 6-10: Jay Gruden, Sitting Duck
The only reason I'll want to watch a Redskins game this year is if they start Dwayne Haskins. Honestly I just see him as another EJ Manuel/Geno Smith type, but there is potential. Their defense isn't half bad, but I think if these Skins struggle to win games (which they probably will), we could see Jay Gruden shown the door. He's long been on a semi-hot seat, which will only get hotter the more the Skins lose. But we all know the real problem with this team is the owner, Dan Snyder.
4. New York Giants, 5-11: What are they thinking?
Oh, the Giants... boy I would not want to be a fan of them right now. They've drafted a running back and quarterback with their first picks the last two years, but haven't surrounded them with any kind of talent yet. This year will be all about transitioning from Eli Manning to Daniel Jones. So their QB will either be a washed-up has-been or an unpolished rookie. Yikes. And they may end up wasting the best years of one of the best running back talents in years in Saquon Barkley.
NFC North
1. Minnesota Vikings, 11-5: Kirk on a mission
I feel like the division champ of the NFC North is usually the one team people don't see coming, excluding the Lions of course (Sorry, Lions fans). Last year it was the Bears. People are sleeping on the Vikings this year and I could see them pulling off some Minnesota magic. Kirk Cousins will be out to prove he can win in this league. Last year was him getting used to a new team, new system, and new teammates. Now that he's got a year under his belt with them, watch out.
2. Chicago Bears, 10-6*: Doink in the past
The Bears are still a well built team and were a kick away from winning a playoff game. Can't forget they have one of the best defensive players in the game in Khalil Mack. I could see the Bears hanging with the Vikes all the way to the end. They'll have to put last year's heartbreaking playoff loss way in the past to have success in 2019.
3. Green Bay Packers, 8-8: New coach, so what?
Aaron Rodgers is going to realize he had it good with Mike McCarthy. I'm not too impressed still with Green Bay's roster compared to Minnesota's and Chicago's. Also, I'm not too sure about the durability of Aaron Rodgers anymore. I hate to say it, but I think Aaron and Green Bay's best days are behind them. Matt LaFleur can only do so much as a rookie head coach, and he won't make that much of a difference.
4. Detroit Lions, 6-10: Someone's got to lose
The Lions aren't a bad team, there's so much competition in the NFC and specifically the NFC North. If they were in the AFC East they'd be 2nd place, easily. I like Patricia as a coach and they've made some solid additions. Just won't be enough... again. If another team in their division collapses they have a shot, but still a small one.
NFC South
1. Atlanta Falcons, 11-5: LI in the past
The Falcons will finally be able to put Super Bowl LI behind them and make a valiant effort to get back to the "big game". I like their roster and Matt Ryan always seems to be a bit underrated, in my opinion. Julio Jones will have a monster year, but more importantly their defense will have a great year and take big strides. I expect the Falcons to have their best season since their Super Bowl LI season in which... well we all know what happened.
2. New Orleans Saints, 9-7: Heartbreak catches up eventually
I hate to say it, but the Saints aren't making it back to the playoffs. Two heartbreaking playoff losses in a row is just killer. Brees is 40 and will be nearing 41 at season's end. They've got a good team, but they also have a tough schedule and I'm predicting a couple bad breaks for them. Just narrowly missing the playoffs. Heartbreak will catch up to them eventually.
3. Carolina Panthers, 7-9: Stuck with immature Cam
My oh my how far Cam Newton's stock has fallen. Remember when he was MVP? Seems like ages ago. He's now ranked 87th in the NFL's Top 100 after being #1 just THREE YEARS AGO. Yikes. My gut says Cam will not retire a Panther unless he retires early due to health concerns. Meanwhile, I'm still not sold on the Panthers as a team and I think they'll be so-so at best.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 6-10: Not so famous Jameis
Will the Bruce Arians experiment work? Hard to say. Perhaps not with Jameis Winston. Like the Lions, Tampa Bay's not a bad team, they just play in a really tough division. I think their defense will be solid, but can Winston lead them to victory enough? Doubtful. I think Jameis' career will follow that of Josh Freeman's, where he ultimately becomes a journeyman backup quarterback, so not as famous.
NFC West
1. Los Angeles Rams, 12-4: Still too darn good
I hate to say it, but I think the Rams are going to be good again. I know I said in a post two months ago that I think the entire division (minus the Hawks of course) could struggle a bit in 2019. I really want to believe the Super Bowl hangover curse will happen to the Rams. They just have too much talent to go 8-8. They may have another great regular season, but that doesn't always mean they'll have a great postseason as well. Stay tuned.
2. Seattle Seahawks, 10-6*: Patience is a virtue
For the first time ever I reveal what I predict the Hawks record to be in my NFL predictions (usually I keep it in the separate Seahawks predictions). I see another winning season and another playoff berth. The Hawks could really challenge the Rams for the division title, but the Rams may just be too much. They are slowly getting better and better, filling holes left by the departed LOB and guys like Avril, Bennett, and Baldwin. We may not see too much success in 2019, but it's a slow ascent back to Super Bowl contention. For more on the Hawks 2019 season you'll have to see my other post on the Hawks HERE.
3. San Francisco 49ers, 8-8: Still don't like Jimmy
Well many are predicting the 49ers to double their 4 wins from last year and I think they will... barely. I'm still not sold on Garoppolo as a franchise quarterback. Dating a porn star? Also he doesn't seem to be able to stay fully healthy. The 49ers team isn't awful anymore, but will they be good enough to avoid another losing season? I think it'll be close. They'll have to wait another year to try to return to the playoffs.
4. Arizona Cardinals, 4-12: Kyler the right choice?
I'm taking a bit of a risk here and saying Kyler Murray just won't succeed in the NFL. At least not in his rookie season. He's small and unlike Russell Wilson doesn't have the stature to take hits constantly in the NFL. It doesn't help the Cards hopes that they play in a division where two recently made the playoffs and the other team is on its way up and could vie for a playoff spot. Also, I'm not sold on Kliff Kingsbury as a coach, but we'll see.
So those are all of my predicted regular season records in the NFL for 2019. Here's how the playoff seeding shapes up:
AFC
1. Kansas City Chiefs, 13-3
2. New England Patriots, 11-5
3. Pittsburgh Steelers, 10-6
4. Tennessee Titans, 10-6
5. Los Angeles Chargers, 10-6
6. Cleveland Browns, 9-7
NFC
1. Los Angeles Rams, 12-4
2. Minnesota Vikings, 11-5
3. Atlanta Falcons, 11-5
4. Philadelphia Eagles, 10-6
5. Seattle Seahawks, 10-6
6. Chicago Bears, 10-6
All right, and how would these playoffs shape up? Let's find out.
WILD CARDS
AFC:
(6) Browns at (3) Steelers: Steelers win
These AFC North rivals face off, and the Steelers prove maturity and experience matters big in the playoffs. Baker Mayfield leads a spirited comeback attempt but comes up short.
(5) Chargers at (4) Titans: Chargers win
First upset of Wild Card weekend is the Chargers upsetting the Titans. Again, the Chargers go on the road and take care of an only somewhat decent division winner.
NFC:
(6) Bears at (3) Falcons: Falcons win
Yet again Matt Nagy and Mitch Trubisky struggle to win a playoff game. But this time is on the road in a tough environment in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Julio Jones and Matt Ryan's air attack is too much for the Bears.
(5) Seahawks at (4) Eagles: Seahawks win
The battle of the two blue/green birds. The Hawks come out on top late thanks to the defense making a big stand. Eagles fans start to wonder if Carson Wentz can win a playoff game.
DIVISIONAL ROUND
AFC:
(5) Chargers at (1) Chiefs: Chiefs win
I like the Chargers a lot, but they'll be hard-pressed to win at Arrowhead Stadium in January. They got blown out by the Patriots who were just barely able to do it last year.
(3) Steelers at (2) Patriots: Patriots win
The Steelers are still a very solid team, but are nowhere near dynamic or great enough to beat the Patriots on the road in the playoffs. Terrific Tom again makes it to the AFC Championship game.
NFC:
(5) Seahawks at (1) Rams: Rams win
I hate to say it... but Rams take it. I just don't think the Hawks have enough experienced players to win a playoff game against the Rams, especially on the road. In the two divisional matchups between Western division rivals, the home team comes out on top each time.
(3) Falcons at (2) Vikings: Falcons win
I hate to say it, but Vikings fans are so accustomed to heartbreak this should come as no surprise. They probably lose in heartbreaking fashion here in some fashion.
CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS
AFC:
(2) Patriots at (1) Chiefs: Chiefs win
In a rematch of last year's Conference Championship Game, the Chiefs come out on top this time to finally claim the Lamar Hunt trophy. I'd expect a close game yet again, but this time luck swinging in the Chiefs' favor.
(3) Falcons at (1) Rams: Rams win
In another playoff rematch (from 2 years ago), the Rams get revenge from that loss to claim the George Halas trophy. The Falcons put up a tough fight, but ultimately come up short as both #1 seeds make it to the Super Bowl... again.
SUPER BOWL LIV: Chiefs vs. Rams: Chiefs win
In what will be one of the most entertaining Super Bowls ever, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs come out on top to claim the Lombardi trophy. The Rams, meanwhile, become this generation's Buffalo Bills of the 90s as they lose their second Super Bowl in a row.
So my Super Bowl pick is Rams vs. Chiefs, with the Chiefs coming out on top. Who will win the awards? Let's find out:
MVP: Patrick Mahomes
Offensive Player: Patrick Mahomes
Defensive Player: Darius Leonard
Coach: Andy Reid
Offensive Rookie: N'Keal Harry
Defensive Rookie: Devin Bush
Comeback Player: Carson Wentz
Super Bowl MVP: Patrick Mahomes
Edit: With Andrew Luck's abrupt retirement, I had to adjust a few things, mainly the Colts season but also a couple others who are in their division.
AFC East
1. New England Patriots 11-5: Won't stop anytime soon
Is there any question? The Patriots still remain the favorites in the AFC East. Towards the end of last year Brady showed some signs of his age, and I think that'll creep in earlier this year, costing the Patriots a few games down the stretch. They'll still win the AFC East easily, of course because they have a bunch of young, talented players. Not until Brady and Belichick retire will this train stop and they have given zero indications that they will soon. However, for the first time in years they will not have a first round bye.
2. New York Jets, 8-8: Offensive progress or bust
The Jets are many people's dark horse team. Every year we see teams come out of nowhere to claim a playoff spot or division title. I'm unsure if that will be the Jets. They have Bell and C.J. Mosely, and Sam Darnold will be going into his 2nd year and is now under the tutelage of first year head coach Adam Gase. So this offense needs to make strides otherwise it could be a LONG time before the Jets make the playoffs again. Odds are they will, however. This team could go 10-6, but I'll stick with the safe pick of 8-8.
3. Buffalo Bills, 6-10: Old backs, young gun
Josh Allen goes into his second year (hence the young gun), but unlike Mayfield and Darnold won't taste too much success in his sophomore season. The old backs are LeSean McCoy and Frank Gore. The Bills will be competitive and shouldn't get blown out much, but they just don't have enough talent to win many games late.
4. Miami Dolphins, 5-11: Rosen gets screwed... again?
The Fins continue their QB carousel, as they moved on from what they hoped to be the first legit QB since Marino in Ryan Tannehill, but he never could get them over the hump. Now they'll go with a combination of Ryan Fitzpatrick and Josh Rosen. I expect to see a bit more of Rosen. I'll be honest, the Dolphins could be a team that surprises and wins 8 or 9 games, especially if Rosen breaks out. But if Rosen doesn't and the Fins struggle, they could draft a QB with their first pick next year, meaning Rosen gets screwed over by his team again.
AFC North
1. Pittsburgh Steelers, 10-6: Less entertaining, so what?
First off, I don't expect the AFC North to be that good this season. Too many teams lost significant players. The Steelers were one of them. But they still have a great core of players. They still have James Conner and Juju Smith-Schuster, two Pro Bowl caliber players. But their quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, will show signs of age. Despite that, yet again they'll win just enough to secure a division title thanks to lesser competition in their division.
2. Cleveland Browns, 9-7*: Hot start, cool finish
I think the Browns are a bit overhyped. I also think OBJ is a bit of locker room cancer. There's just too many egos on this team, and Mayfield is not the type of leader to keep things level-headed and calm the storm. I think they could get off to a good start and get people thinking Super Bowl (7-2 maybe?) but then come crashing back down to earth and lose a lot of their remaining games to fall to 9-7. This team is built to win early, but not late, but it will just be enough in a bad AFC.
3. Baltimore Ravens, 6-10: Lamar gets figured out
One of my bolder predictions this season is I predict the Ravens to have a bad year, culminating in a losing record. I don't think Lamar Jackson can succeed in the NFL long term. Much like his understudy, RGIII, he will have a disappointing sophomore season. The losses of Suggs and Moseley hurts them, and Earl Thomas probably gets hurt again, showing he just can't stay healthy anymore.
4. Cincinnati Bengals, 4-12: Hurt for Justin Herbert?
The Bengals are considered an afterthought right now. Not many people are going to want to tune in to watch a Bengals game. I don't see them going 2-14 or 1-15 but they are going to find it very difficult to pass any team in their division this year. I expect them to get a high draft pick and pick a QB in the 2020 draft, possibly Justin Herbert. They'll need to find Dalton's successor soon if he struggles at all in 2019, which is to be expected.
AFC South
1. Tennessee Titans, 10-6: Mariota's health is key
This team is just solid. I don't know what else to say. I like Mike Vrabel as a coach and I think the Titans get a few lucky breaks this year. Also, Mariota doesn't put up scoreboard shattering numbers, but he does make a lot of clutch plays late in games to make the Titans organization believe in him even more. But the main concern is his health, and if he can play solid quarterback with few to no injuries, the Titans will have a real good shot at the playoffs.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars, 8-8: Strive for mediocre, well...
These cats are mad. They had to be disgusted with themselves, following up a AFC Championship-berth season with 5 win season. However, they will face too much competition in the AFC and will only be average at best. They went out and got Nick Foles, who has yet to prove he can win outside of Philadelphia. He's an average quarterback at best when he's not on the Eagles. So when you strive for average, that's what you get.
3. Indianapolis Colts, 7-9: No More Luck Here
The Colts literally no longer have Luck after his abrupt retirement. You could expect this team to collapse and crumble, but I don't think they will. I think they play mostly inspired football, but without a true franchise quarterback, they'll struggle to win close games. Fortunately for them, Jacoby Brissett is one of the better backup quarterbacks in the NFL, but there's a reason he's a backup.
4. Houston Texans, 6-10: Good luck Deshaun... seriously
You probably weren't expecting the reigning AFC South division champs here, were you? Well, did you expect the Jaguars to go from division champs to 5-11? Probably not. Anyway, my reasoning is something unfortunate that happens in the NFL: Injuries. Namely, I'm talking about an injury to Deshaun Watson. I hate predicting injuries, but with his horrible offensive line, I'm afraid it might happen. I hope I'm wrong. Good luck Deshaun. Also, losing Lamar Miller hurts, and their running game takes a hit as a result.
AFC West
1. Kansas City Chiefs, 13-3: Gotta beat the best
Going into 2018, the Chiefs didn't exactly know what they had in Patrick Mahomes so they weren't sure how to feel about the season. Now that they do, they've got nothing less of Super Bowl aspirations. They added the Honey Badger and former Seahawk Frank Clark. And, I think one of the surprises for 2019, Mecole Hardman. Remember that name. He's a speedster in the mold of Tyreek Hill. And speaking of Hill, boy are the Chiefs lucky he wasn't suspended. There was thought the Chiefs might have to cut him like they did Kareem Hunt. Now, with Hill and Hardman, if teams double Hill, Mahomes will be able to get the ball easily to Hardman. Watch out. In order for this to be a successful season, they'll have to beat the best, which of course is the Patriots. Couldn't do it last year in two opportunities. They'll get at least one shot this year.
2. Los Angeles Chargers, 10-6*: Chiefs in the way
I know this Chargers team expects big things in 2019, with notable young stars like Derwin James and Mike Williams. Barring injuries, they should compete well enough to get a winning record and a wild card spot. Like with Brady and Roethlisberger, however, I think Rivers could show signs of age as well. Hey, someone's bound to. However good they do, the Chiefs will probably do just as well. They'll either need a significant injury or collapse from the Chiefs, or just go on a run in the playoffs.
3. Denver Broncos, 8-8: Stuck in just average
Boy would it suck for Flacco if he lost his job to a rookie two years in a row. Flacco will begin the season as the starter but Drew Lock could take over if the team or Flacco struggle. I think they'll have an up and down season, but ultimately will have to look towards the future with Lock. This team screams average, with only a few notable exceptions like Von Miller.
4. Oakland Raiders, 6-10: Hard Knocks the highlight
Boy will it be fun to watch the Raiders on "Hard Knocks" this season. If Antonio Brown can stay healthy and out of trouble, he should add a spark to the Raiders offense and make them entertaining. But if the Raiders struggle too much, Gruden might have to make a tough decision to move on from Derek Carr and draft a QB in 2020. But more than likely the Raiders will struggle, leaving Hard Knocks as the lone highlight.
NFC East
1. Philadelphia Eagles, 10-6: Wentz healthy or else
Can Carson Wentz finally stay healthy all year? If he doesn't, Eagles fans will be very concerned for their future at the QB position. The Eagles are a good team, but it's not like their division is going to be really tough, especially the bottom 2. Jordan Howard will prove the Bears should never have let him go. The Eagles have enough talent to succeed, but with Foles no longer available as a security blanket, they'll need Wentz to stay healthy for a successful season.
2. Dallas Cowboys, 9-7: Zeke is not needed
I'm torn on these guys. On one hand, I want to predict a first round bye, but on the other, I want to predict them missing the playoffs entirely. I went with the latter. There's too much drama around this team thanks to Ezekiel Elliot. He's holding out, but the Cowboys don't need him. They're still a very good (if not better) team without him. And Dak Prescott is a very solid QB and improved once he got Amari Cooper. Will Garrett finally get the axe? Maybe Jerry Jones will just figure enough is enough and move on after the season.
3. Washington Redskins, 6-10: Jay Gruden, Sitting Duck
The only reason I'll want to watch a Redskins game this year is if they start Dwayne Haskins. Honestly I just see him as another EJ Manuel/Geno Smith type, but there is potential. Their defense isn't half bad, but I think if these Skins struggle to win games (which they probably will), we could see Jay Gruden shown the door. He's long been on a semi-hot seat, which will only get hotter the more the Skins lose. But we all know the real problem with this team is the owner, Dan Snyder.
4. New York Giants, 5-11: What are they thinking?
Oh, the Giants... boy I would not want to be a fan of them right now. They've drafted a running back and quarterback with their first picks the last two years, but haven't surrounded them with any kind of talent yet. This year will be all about transitioning from Eli Manning to Daniel Jones. So their QB will either be a washed-up has-been or an unpolished rookie. Yikes. And they may end up wasting the best years of one of the best running back talents in years in Saquon Barkley.
NFC North
1. Minnesota Vikings, 11-5: Kirk on a mission
I feel like the division champ of the NFC North is usually the one team people don't see coming, excluding the Lions of course (Sorry, Lions fans). Last year it was the Bears. People are sleeping on the Vikings this year and I could see them pulling off some Minnesota magic. Kirk Cousins will be out to prove he can win in this league. Last year was him getting used to a new team, new system, and new teammates. Now that he's got a year under his belt with them, watch out.
2. Chicago Bears, 10-6*: Doink in the past
The Bears are still a well built team and were a kick away from winning a playoff game. Can't forget they have one of the best defensive players in the game in Khalil Mack. I could see the Bears hanging with the Vikes all the way to the end. They'll have to put last year's heartbreaking playoff loss way in the past to have success in 2019.
3. Green Bay Packers, 8-8: New coach, so what?
Aaron Rodgers is going to realize he had it good with Mike McCarthy. I'm not too impressed still with Green Bay's roster compared to Minnesota's and Chicago's. Also, I'm not too sure about the durability of Aaron Rodgers anymore. I hate to say it, but I think Aaron and Green Bay's best days are behind them. Matt LaFleur can only do so much as a rookie head coach, and he won't make that much of a difference.
4. Detroit Lions, 6-10: Someone's got to lose
The Lions aren't a bad team, there's so much competition in the NFC and specifically the NFC North. If they were in the AFC East they'd be 2nd place, easily. I like Patricia as a coach and they've made some solid additions. Just won't be enough... again. If another team in their division collapses they have a shot, but still a small one.
NFC South
1. Atlanta Falcons, 11-5: LI in the past
The Falcons will finally be able to put Super Bowl LI behind them and make a valiant effort to get back to the "big game". I like their roster and Matt Ryan always seems to be a bit underrated, in my opinion. Julio Jones will have a monster year, but more importantly their defense will have a great year and take big strides. I expect the Falcons to have their best season since their Super Bowl LI season in which... well we all know what happened.
2. New Orleans Saints, 9-7: Heartbreak catches up eventually
I hate to say it, but the Saints aren't making it back to the playoffs. Two heartbreaking playoff losses in a row is just killer. Brees is 40 and will be nearing 41 at season's end. They've got a good team, but they also have a tough schedule and I'm predicting a couple bad breaks for them. Just narrowly missing the playoffs. Heartbreak will catch up to them eventually.
3. Carolina Panthers, 7-9: Stuck with immature Cam
My oh my how far Cam Newton's stock has fallen. Remember when he was MVP? Seems like ages ago. He's now ranked 87th in the NFL's Top 100 after being #1 just THREE YEARS AGO. Yikes. My gut says Cam will not retire a Panther unless he retires early due to health concerns. Meanwhile, I'm still not sold on the Panthers as a team and I think they'll be so-so at best.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 6-10: Not so famous Jameis
Will the Bruce Arians experiment work? Hard to say. Perhaps not with Jameis Winston. Like the Lions, Tampa Bay's not a bad team, they just play in a really tough division. I think their defense will be solid, but can Winston lead them to victory enough? Doubtful. I think Jameis' career will follow that of Josh Freeman's, where he ultimately becomes a journeyman backup quarterback, so not as famous.
NFC West
1. Los Angeles Rams, 12-4: Still too darn good
I hate to say it, but I think the Rams are going to be good again. I know I said in a post two months ago that I think the entire division (minus the Hawks of course) could struggle a bit in 2019. I really want to believe the Super Bowl hangover curse will happen to the Rams. They just have too much talent to go 8-8. They may have another great regular season, but that doesn't always mean they'll have a great postseason as well. Stay tuned.
2. Seattle Seahawks, 10-6*: Patience is a virtue
For the first time ever I reveal what I predict the Hawks record to be in my NFL predictions (usually I keep it in the separate Seahawks predictions). I see another winning season and another playoff berth. The Hawks could really challenge the Rams for the division title, but the Rams may just be too much. They are slowly getting better and better, filling holes left by the departed LOB and guys like Avril, Bennett, and Baldwin. We may not see too much success in 2019, but it's a slow ascent back to Super Bowl contention. For more on the Hawks 2019 season you'll have to see my other post on the Hawks HERE.
3. San Francisco 49ers, 8-8: Still don't like Jimmy
Well many are predicting the 49ers to double their 4 wins from last year and I think they will... barely. I'm still not sold on Garoppolo as a franchise quarterback. Dating a porn star? Also he doesn't seem to be able to stay fully healthy. The 49ers team isn't awful anymore, but will they be good enough to avoid another losing season? I think it'll be close. They'll have to wait another year to try to return to the playoffs.
4. Arizona Cardinals, 4-12: Kyler the right choice?
I'm taking a bit of a risk here and saying Kyler Murray just won't succeed in the NFL. At least not in his rookie season. He's small and unlike Russell Wilson doesn't have the stature to take hits constantly in the NFL. It doesn't help the Cards hopes that they play in a division where two recently made the playoffs and the other team is on its way up and could vie for a playoff spot. Also, I'm not sold on Kliff Kingsbury as a coach, but we'll see.
So those are all of my predicted regular season records in the NFL for 2019. Here's how the playoff seeding shapes up:
AFC
1. Kansas City Chiefs, 13-3
2. New England Patriots, 11-5
3. Pittsburgh Steelers, 10-6
4. Tennessee Titans, 10-6
5. Los Angeles Chargers, 10-6
6. Cleveland Browns, 9-7
NFC
1. Los Angeles Rams, 12-4
2. Minnesota Vikings, 11-5
3. Atlanta Falcons, 11-5
4. Philadelphia Eagles, 10-6
5. Seattle Seahawks, 10-6
6. Chicago Bears, 10-6
All right, and how would these playoffs shape up? Let's find out.
WILD CARDS
AFC:
(6) Browns at (3) Steelers: Steelers win
These AFC North rivals face off, and the Steelers prove maturity and experience matters big in the playoffs. Baker Mayfield leads a spirited comeback attempt but comes up short.
(5) Chargers at (4) Titans: Chargers win
First upset of Wild Card weekend is the Chargers upsetting the Titans. Again, the Chargers go on the road and take care of an only somewhat decent division winner.
NFC:
(6) Bears at (3) Falcons: Falcons win
Yet again Matt Nagy and Mitch Trubisky struggle to win a playoff game. But this time is on the road in a tough environment in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Julio Jones and Matt Ryan's air attack is too much for the Bears.
(5) Seahawks at (4) Eagles: Seahawks win
The battle of the two blue/green birds. The Hawks come out on top late thanks to the defense making a big stand. Eagles fans start to wonder if Carson Wentz can win a playoff game.
DIVISIONAL ROUND
AFC:
(5) Chargers at (1) Chiefs: Chiefs win
I like the Chargers a lot, but they'll be hard-pressed to win at Arrowhead Stadium in January. They got blown out by the Patriots who were just barely able to do it last year.
(3) Steelers at (2) Patriots: Patriots win
The Steelers are still a very solid team, but are nowhere near dynamic or great enough to beat the Patriots on the road in the playoffs. Terrific Tom again makes it to the AFC Championship game.
NFC:
(5) Seahawks at (1) Rams: Rams win
I hate to say it... but Rams take it. I just don't think the Hawks have enough experienced players to win a playoff game against the Rams, especially on the road. In the two divisional matchups between Western division rivals, the home team comes out on top each time.
(3) Falcons at (2) Vikings: Falcons win
I hate to say it, but Vikings fans are so accustomed to heartbreak this should come as no surprise. They probably lose in heartbreaking fashion here in some fashion.
CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS
AFC:
(2) Patriots at (1) Chiefs: Chiefs win
In a rematch of last year's Conference Championship Game, the Chiefs come out on top this time to finally claim the Lamar Hunt trophy. I'd expect a close game yet again, but this time luck swinging in the Chiefs' favor.
(3) Falcons at (1) Rams: Rams win
In another playoff rematch (from 2 years ago), the Rams get revenge from that loss to claim the George Halas trophy. The Falcons put up a tough fight, but ultimately come up short as both #1 seeds make it to the Super Bowl... again.
SUPER BOWL LIV: Chiefs vs. Rams: Chiefs win
In what will be one of the most entertaining Super Bowls ever, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs come out on top to claim the Lombardi trophy. The Rams, meanwhile, become this generation's Buffalo Bills of the 90s as they lose their second Super Bowl in a row.
So my Super Bowl pick is Rams vs. Chiefs, with the Chiefs coming out on top. Who will win the awards? Let's find out:
MVP: Patrick Mahomes
Offensive Player: Patrick Mahomes
Defensive Player: Darius Leonard
Coach: Andy Reid
Offensive Rookie: N'Keal Harry
Defensive Rookie: Devin Bush
Comeback Player: Carson Wentz
Super Bowl MVP: Patrick Mahomes
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Top Ten Star Wars Movie Ideas (with pictures!)
With Disney's acquisition of Star Wars in 2012, they finally allowed us to see non-episodic Star Wars films. There have been two so far: Rogue One and Solo: A Star Wars Story. Many consider Rogue One to be the best written film since the Original Trilogy, and many consider Solo to be underrated, myself included. Solo suffered at the box office, not because it was a bad film, but because it was released less than 6 months after The Last Jedi and many were suffering from "Star Wars fatigue". If there was a film released every 6 months, you wouldn't really look forward to them as much, would you? It seems as though the poor box office results of Solo have scared Disney from making more spin-off films. But we know they'll get back to it, and we'll have one 2-5 years after Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker is out. So, here are my Top 10 Ideas (ranked) for Star Wars films they could make. I ranked them mainly based on how likely they are to be made, but also I factored in a little bit of how much I'd want them to be made as well. Keep in mind I did my best to come up with titles. Also, I really had to focus on films that have at least a small shot of happening some day. So there won't be any films with Darth Vader as the main character, unfortunately.
10. Qui-Gon Jinn: A Bigger Fish Story
Qui-Gon Jinn is a beloved Star Wars character. If you remember in Ep. II, Count Dooku revealed to us he was Qui-Gon's master. I would love to see their relationship and Qui-Gon's training. We could see hints of Dooku's fall to the dark side. Obviously, two new actors would have to play them (RIP Christopher Lee). My ideas are Colin Farrell for Dooku and Tom Holland for Qui-Gon. Would Star Wars fans still go for this? Meh, but I know I would. Also, the title is a joke (mostly), but I just could not resist.
9. Star Wars: The Formation of the Alliance
I could see a film set between Ep. III and IV revolving around the formation of the Rebel Alliance. I mean, technically we saw the very beginnings of it in the Episode III deleted scene, but this could greatly expand upon that. It would have another chance to feature Darth Vader (who wouldn't want that?). And it could show the very first conflicts between the Alliance and the Empire. One reason I want this to happen (and soon) is I think Millie Bobby Brown would make a really great young Princess Leia. But they would have to make the movie soon before she gets too old. Otherwise they'd have to have a casting call and audition hundreds of young actresses. Also, if they could make this soon they could recast Jimmy Smits in the role of Senator Bail Organa.
8. Star Wars: The Rise and Fall of the New Order
Now I know I've heard after Episode IX, Star Wars will forever be done with the Skywalker saga. I don't think that's entirely true. I mean, they'll be done with the story of the Skywalkers after IX, with Luke dead and Kylo Ren either dead or redeemed (probably). However, I think they still could make a film between Episodes VI and VII about Luke starting the New Jedi Order and how it fell after he lost his nephew, Ben Solo. The reason I think this COULD be possible is because there is a decent and well-known actor named Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes in the MCU) who looks SO much like Mark Hamill. It's crazy. Hamill and Stan are even aware of it. And I'm pretty darn sure Mark Hamill would be happy with Stan playing Luke. The problem being of course is if Stan wanted to do it and if he could pull it off.
7. Windu: A Star Wars Story
In order to have a film centered around a certain character, that character has to be two things: One, he has to be human (Sorry Yoda, Chewbacca, and R2/Threepio), and two, he has to be good/light side. The audience has to be able to relate to the main character. So with that in mind, one of the few characters that fits this that isn't a Skywalker is Mace Windu. And Star Wars would greatly benefit from a film centered around a black character, as it could draw a lot of African-American people into the Star Wars films. It could maybe even be the "Black Panther" of Star Wars films. Also, I'd love to see Mace as a young Jedi, learning from his master, Cyslin Myr. Any tough female actress could play Cyslin, perhaps Danai Gurira. As for Mace, I'd like to see Corey Hawkins in the role (24, Straight Outta Compton, The Walking Dead).
6. Star Wars: A Jedi's Path I would love to see a Star Wars film about a new character, but with a familiar setting. This film would follow a Jedi and her path through training and fighting in the Clone Wars. And I think it should be a female Jedi because there aren't enough female heroines in Star Wars. The film would have a sad ending more than likely, as nearly all of the Jedi were wiped out in the great Jedi purge of Order 66. Maybe she could survive at the end and live as an outcast (but would obviously lose her master). But to see parts of Episodes II and III from someone else's perspective could be really cool. If this film is done soon enough, a lot of the same actors could be used in the roles they had (Samuel L. Jackson, Ian McDiarmid). Honestly, if they cast a well-known or up and coming actress and they market it well enough, this could be one of the biggest Star Wars spin-off films, perhaps the "Wonder Woman" of Star Wars spin-off films.
5. Dash Rendar: A Smuggler's Story
The debate rages on about what is considered Star Wars canon and what is not. I think ultimately Disney will need to decide if they want to "borrow" characters and character traits from what they call "Legends". As I was thinking of EU/Legend characters, Dash Rendar came to me. He is actually considered canon now because he was mentioned in a canonized Star Wars book (Solo: A Star Wars Story: Tales from Vandor). Does that mean they'll make a film about him? No. But imagine if they did, and borrowed from "Shadows of the Empire". If they could recreate anything from that, it would bring so many of us right back to our childhoods. And Dash could be played by any actor deserving of the part as his appearance has not been canonized in any way. Personally, I'd like Charlie Cox (Daredevil) for the role, as he screen tested for Han Solo in "Solo: A Star Wars Story" but didn't get the part.
4. The Adventures of Poe Dameron
Poe Dameron is a fan favorite character. We know Disney will be fond of the Sequel Trilogy after "Rise of Skywalker" has been out and might want to spin off from it with one of the sequel trilogy characters. It comes down to Finn and Poe, and I pick Poe. We could hopefully see him as a teen growing up and learning how to pilot, and see him right before the events of "The Force Awakens" and see what lead to him being on Jakku and how well he knew Lor San Tekka. And we could see him after "Rise of Skywalker" and see if he has a partner and/or kids. He might be leading the Resistance at this point, but could still have some action. We'd have to have BB-8 of course. And this is the first film on here that wouldn't have to be recast as Oscar Isaac could still play the role. The only additional casting for Poe they might do is for a younger version of him. I don't see this as a huge box office hit, and may end up being a TV show instead (Poe is featured on Star Wars Resistance).
3. FETT
I think a movie about Boba Fett is possible, despite what I said earlier in the Mace Windu movie about the protagonist having to be good and light-sided. Boba is a very complex character, more morally gray than anything. It could even be set after the events of Episodes IV or V (or between III and IV). And I would love them to show Fett escaping from the sarlaac pit; maybe even show him fighting it. In order to draw in fans, they'd have to cast a bigger name than Daniel Logan. The problem is that Boba is an unaltered clone of Jango Fett, meaning as an adult he would look just like Temuera Morrison. However, the writers could come up with a clever tactic as to why he doesn't look exactly like him; something like the cloning process wasn't perfect. Therefore, my choice for Boba would be Toby Sebastian (Game of Thrones). He looks the part and has a leading man kind of appearance.
2. Star Wars: The Old Republic
Ever since the Knights of the Old Republic video game, I've wanted a movie set around the era of the Old Republic. Specifically, I would want it centered around Darth Revan, Bastila, and Carth. With Disney's acquisition of Star Wars that story lost it's canonization, but they could still make a film with a lot of the same elements (and could borrow some characters, too). It would be very cool to see some characters here and there from KOTOR that us players of the game could pick up on in the film. The biggest downside to this is that it would be the first film (unless one comes out before it) that isn't set anywhere close to the lives of likable characters such as Yoda, C-3PO and R2D2. It would feel a lot different and not having a single recognizable character could hurt the film at the box office by dissuading a lot of the casual fans from seeing it.
1. Star Wars: Obi-Wan
Fans have been clamoring for an Obi-Wan film for years. It would be set between episodes III and IV, and we'd see Obi-Wan on Tattooine looking after Luke. Ewan McGregor is more than ready and willing to reprise his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi. His character is beloved throughout the Star Wars fandom. One problem with this I see is writing out a plot that is worthy of a solo film but also doesn't contradict Episode IV. Remember, the Empire was still unaware of his presence in Ep. IV. So who would he fight? We know he fights and kills Maul for good thanks to Star Wars Rebels, but who else? My only thought is the criminal organization revealed in Solo called "Crimson Dawn". Could be a way to tie up Solo to this. Also, there's only so much you can do on a desert planet, he'd almost have to leave Tatooine so that the entire film is not set there. He could meet up with Yoda on Dagobah and get some advice, and we could see part of how you become a Force ghost and become one with the Force.
There is my list of the Top Ten Star Wars Movie Ideas. I'd be willing to bet money at least one of these (if not more) becomes a film some day. If indeed that does happen, I will probably come back here and add my comments to the film that actually got made. Honestly, I'd love it if ANY of these got made. It's really a shame Disney handicapped itself by declaring Expanded Universe material as non-canon, but as I said earlier, that doesn't mean those characters can not or did not exist. Also, if on the very off chance that any Disney/Lucasfilm executive happens to be reading this, please consider making the films on this list, especially the ones towards the end! Also name me lead screenwriter (lol just kidding... or am I?)
Qui-Gon Jinn is a beloved Star Wars character. If you remember in Ep. II, Count Dooku revealed to us he was Qui-Gon's master. I would love to see their relationship and Qui-Gon's training. We could see hints of Dooku's fall to the dark side. Obviously, two new actors would have to play them (RIP Christopher Lee). My ideas are Colin Farrell for Dooku and Tom Holland for Qui-Gon. Would Star Wars fans still go for this? Meh, but I know I would. Also, the title is a joke (mostly), but I just could not resist.
I could see a film set between Ep. III and IV revolving around the formation of the Rebel Alliance. I mean, technically we saw the very beginnings of it in the Episode III deleted scene, but this could greatly expand upon that. It would have another chance to feature Darth Vader (who wouldn't want that?). And it could show the very first conflicts between the Alliance and the Empire. One reason I want this to happen (and soon) is I think Millie Bobby Brown would make a really great young Princess Leia. But they would have to make the movie soon before she gets too old. Otherwise they'd have to have a casting call and audition hundreds of young actresses. Also, if they could make this soon they could recast Jimmy Smits in the role of Senator Bail Organa.
8. Star Wars: The Rise and Fall of the New OrderNow I know I've heard after Episode IX, Star Wars will forever be done with the Skywalker saga. I don't think that's entirely true. I mean, they'll be done with the story of the Skywalkers after IX, with Luke dead and Kylo Ren either dead or redeemed (probably). However, I think they still could make a film between Episodes VI and VII about Luke starting the New Jedi Order and how it fell after he lost his nephew, Ben Solo. The reason I think this COULD be possible is because there is a decent and well-known actor named Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes in the MCU) who looks SO much like Mark Hamill. It's crazy. Hamill and Stan are even aware of it. And I'm pretty darn sure Mark Hamill would be happy with Stan playing Luke. The problem being of course is if Stan wanted to do it and if he could pull it off.
7. Windu: A Star Wars Story
In order to have a film centered around a certain character, that character has to be two things: One, he has to be human (Sorry Yoda, Chewbacca, and R2/Threepio), and two, he has to be good/light side. The audience has to be able to relate to the main character. So with that in mind, one of the few characters that fits this that isn't a Skywalker is Mace Windu. And Star Wars would greatly benefit from a film centered around a black character, as it could draw a lot of African-American people into the Star Wars films. It could maybe even be the "Black Panther" of Star Wars films. Also, I'd love to see Mace as a young Jedi, learning from his master, Cyslin Myr. Any tough female actress could play Cyslin, perhaps Danai Gurira. As for Mace, I'd like to see Corey Hawkins in the role (24, Straight Outta Compton, The Walking Dead).
6. Star Wars: A Jedi's Path I would love to see a Star Wars film about a new character, but with a familiar setting. This film would follow a Jedi and her path through training and fighting in the Clone Wars. And I think it should be a female Jedi because there aren't enough female heroines in Star Wars. The film would have a sad ending more than likely, as nearly all of the Jedi were wiped out in the great Jedi purge of Order 66. Maybe she could survive at the end and live as an outcast (but would obviously lose her master). But to see parts of Episodes II and III from someone else's perspective could be really cool. If this film is done soon enough, a lot of the same actors could be used in the roles they had (Samuel L. Jackson, Ian McDiarmid). Honestly, if they cast a well-known or up and coming actress and they market it well enough, this could be one of the biggest Star Wars spin-off films, perhaps the "Wonder Woman" of Star Wars spin-off films.
5. Dash Rendar: A Smuggler's Story
4. The Adventures of Poe Dameron
Poe Dameron is a fan favorite character. We know Disney will be fond of the Sequel Trilogy after "Rise of Skywalker" has been out and might want to spin off from it with one of the sequel trilogy characters. It comes down to Finn and Poe, and I pick Poe. We could hopefully see him as a teen growing up and learning how to pilot, and see him right before the events of "The Force Awakens" and see what lead to him being on Jakku and how well he knew Lor San Tekka. And we could see him after "Rise of Skywalker" and see if he has a partner and/or kids. He might be leading the Resistance at this point, but could still have some action. We'd have to have BB-8 of course. And this is the first film on here that wouldn't have to be recast as Oscar Isaac could still play the role. The only additional casting for Poe they might do is for a younger version of him. I don't see this as a huge box office hit, and may end up being a TV show instead (Poe is featured on Star Wars Resistance).
3. FETTI think a movie about Boba Fett is possible, despite what I said earlier in the Mace Windu movie about the protagonist having to be good and light-sided. Boba is a very complex character, more morally gray than anything. It could even be set after the events of Episodes IV or V (or between III and IV). And I would love them to show Fett escaping from the sarlaac pit; maybe even show him fighting it. In order to draw in fans, they'd have to cast a bigger name than Daniel Logan. The problem is that Boba is an unaltered clone of Jango Fett, meaning as an adult he would look just like Temuera Morrison. However, the writers could come up with a clever tactic as to why he doesn't look exactly like him; something like the cloning process wasn't perfect. Therefore, my choice for Boba would be Toby Sebastian (Game of Thrones). He looks the part and has a leading man kind of appearance.
2. Star Wars: The Old RepublicEver since the Knights of the Old Republic video game, I've wanted a movie set around the era of the Old Republic. Specifically, I would want it centered around Darth Revan, Bastila, and Carth. With Disney's acquisition of Star Wars that story lost it's canonization, but they could still make a film with a lot of the same elements (and could borrow some characters, too). It would be very cool to see some characters here and there from KOTOR that us players of the game could pick up on in the film. The biggest downside to this is that it would be the first film (unless one comes out before it) that isn't set anywhere close to the lives of likable characters such as Yoda, C-3PO and R2D2. It would feel a lot different and not having a single recognizable character could hurt the film at the box office by dissuading a lot of the casual fans from seeing it.
Fans have been clamoring for an Obi-Wan film for years. It would be set between episodes III and IV, and we'd see Obi-Wan on Tattooine looking after Luke. Ewan McGregor is more than ready and willing to reprise his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi. His character is beloved throughout the Star Wars fandom. One problem with this I see is writing out a plot that is worthy of a solo film but also doesn't contradict Episode IV. Remember, the Empire was still unaware of his presence in Ep. IV. So who would he fight? We know he fights and kills Maul for good thanks to Star Wars Rebels, but who else? My only thought is the criminal organization revealed in Solo called "Crimson Dawn". Could be a way to tie up Solo to this. Also, there's only so much you can do on a desert planet, he'd almost have to leave Tatooine so that the entire film is not set there. He could meet up with Yoda on Dagobah and get some advice, and we could see part of how you become a Force ghost and become one with the Force.
There is my list of the Top Ten Star Wars Movie Ideas. I'd be willing to bet money at least one of these (if not more) becomes a film some day. If indeed that does happen, I will probably come back here and add my comments to the film that actually got made. Honestly, I'd love it if ANY of these got made. It's really a shame Disney handicapped itself by declaring Expanded Universe material as non-canon, but as I said earlier, that doesn't mean those characters can not or did not exist. Also, if on the very off chance that any Disney/Lucasfilm executive happens to be reading this, please consider making the films on this list, especially the ones towards the end! Also name me lead screenwriter (lol just kidding... or am I?)
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
My Top Ten Blog Posts that Didn't Age Well
I've been blogging for 9 years (almost a decade!) and if you do this long enough you can look back at your old posts and realize... uh oh. A lot of them don't age well. There are a lot of things I said I take back or that I was completely wrong on. A lot of them sports related, but not all. Here are my top 10 blog posts that didn't age well, from not so bad to the worst:
10. My 60 Day Insanity Workout, November 2010
I have tried the Insanity workout three times now and I still have yet to do all 60 days. I also didn't post my Insanity Workout blog after Week 6, even though the workout is 9 weeks.
9. These Seahawks could stand to learn something from the Bengals, October 2011
Well the Bengals did remain a fairly decent time for a while, but it's what I said about the Hawks that gets me.
"Earl Thomas, Red Bryant, David Hawthorne, Kam Chancellor, and KJ Wright all look to be part of this defense for years to come." - David Hawthorne and Red Bryant? Not so much.
"Unfortunately, 2011 will be just one of those seasons for the Hawks. The team will likely finish 4-12 or 5-11." - Well, 7-9 isn't much better but I was definitely off.
8. Predictions for the Seahawks in 2012, August 2012
First off, I predicted the Hawks to go 9-7. They went 11-5. I also predicted Matt Flynn to lead the team in passing. Oops. I also predicted us to lose to the Bills, which we did not.
7. Current Seattle Mariners Issues, June 2012
In this I answered my own questions and let's just say some of the time I should've said the opposite. For the fences being moved in, I said "No" but they ended up getting moved in and helped the offense. For if Felix should be traded, I said a resounding no with this image, when we probably should've traded him while he still had value.
6. American Idol Top 24 Predictions, February 2011
In the season Scotty McCreery won, I predicted him to get no higher than 9th. Yikes. In fact, when I made a predicted Top 12, he wasn't in it. I also said Pia Toscano would get no higher than 11th. She did get gypped, but not that badly.
5. Why Google and YouTube Suck, October 2012
I no longer think this, btw. My default browser is Chrome, I use Gmail, and I even have a Google Pixel phone. Here's some snippets:
"I am giving IE another chance. Google Chrome pushed me too far, so I’m going to see if IE can do enough to pull me back in." - Well I guess I gave them another chance but they couldn't win me over.
"I really believe that Bing is just as good (if not better) of a search engine than Google" - I mean, I still use Bing from time to time, but I find Google to overall provide me better results.
"Forget about me using Google as my regular search engine. And now you can forget about me using Google Chrome anymore" - We all have to eat our own words at some point.
4. Top Ten Things I Am Looking Forward to Most in My Future, September 2010
Well, 5 of these still haven't happened 9 years later. The ending to HIMYM was a letdown. I at least live with Amanda now having moved out. I've been to Hawaii. The Seahawks won the Super Bowl. But that's about it. Still working on the job/house/family aspects.
3. The Seattle Mariners: Destined to be a bottom dweller or turning the corner?, March 2011
"I’m giving the Mariners until 2015. That’s four years. I’ll be 26 when they play that year. If the Mariners don’t make it back to the playoffs by then and don’t look like they will soon, I will stop following them."
Oops. The year is 2019. The Mariners are undergoing a rebuild (in other words, it doesn't look like they'll make the playoffs soon) and I am still following them. I think it was because they gave me hope in 2016 and 2018, so I delayed it. Now... well I feel like I'm giving them one last shot.
2. 2012 - My Year to Shine, September 2011
"I promise you this. I will give it my all next year to get back into school. I will go back to school"
"In 2012, I will do the Insanity workout yet again, and this time I will complete it, even if I get sick."
Oof. This one stings. I did neither. I'm not proud of it. I just could never figure out the right school for me. I did try Insanity again. I'm not sure why I didn't complete it. But 2012 was far from my year to shine. I hate looking back on this and realizing what I could have and should have done.
1. Current State of Seattle Sports, March 2010
One of my oldest blog posts also happens to be one of my worst predictions. Here are some things that stand out from this:
"Speaking of Locker, he is not only expected to be the Pac-10 player of the year, but also a contendor for the Heismann Trophy" -Yikes... plus the misspelling of "contender"
"Probably the team in the worst shape in Seattle is the Seahawks" - Yet they were the next to win a championship
"The team recently acquired Charlie Whitehurst,[...] the Seahawks front office and coaching staff predict him to the be the quarterback of the future" - He wasn't even the quarterback for a full season
"The Seattle Mariners have high hopes for their 2010 season. Newly acquired Cliff Lee, Chone Figgins, Casey Kotchman, and Milton Bradley hope to improve this team upon its surprising 2009 season." - My word... Not one of those guys made a significant impact, at least positively.
"I expect the Mariners to be in the playoff hunt at least until late August and more than likely into September." - The Mariners lost 101 games and were already 10 games under .500 by the middle of May.
Yeah... that did not age well at all. You just can't predict the future in any sport, really.
10. My 60 Day Insanity Workout, November 2010
I have tried the Insanity workout three times now and I still have yet to do all 60 days. I also didn't post my Insanity Workout blog after Week 6, even though the workout is 9 weeks.
9. These Seahawks could stand to learn something from the Bengals, October 2011
Well the Bengals did remain a fairly decent time for a while, but it's what I said about the Hawks that gets me.
"Earl Thomas, Red Bryant, David Hawthorne, Kam Chancellor, and KJ Wright all look to be part of this defense for years to come." - David Hawthorne and Red Bryant? Not so much.
"Unfortunately, 2011 will be just one of those seasons for the Hawks. The team will likely finish 4-12 or 5-11." - Well, 7-9 isn't much better but I was definitely off.
8. Predictions for the Seahawks in 2012, August 2012
First off, I predicted the Hawks to go 9-7. They went 11-5. I also predicted Matt Flynn to lead the team in passing. Oops. I also predicted us to lose to the Bills, which we did not.
7. Current Seattle Mariners Issues, June 2012
In this I answered my own questions and let's just say some of the time I should've said the opposite. For the fences being moved in, I said "No" but they ended up getting moved in and helped the offense. For if Felix should be traded, I said a resounding no with this image, when we probably should've traded him while he still had value.
6. American Idol Top 24 Predictions, February 2011
In the season Scotty McCreery won, I predicted him to get no higher than 9th. Yikes. In fact, when I made a predicted Top 12, he wasn't in it. I also said Pia Toscano would get no higher than 11th. She did get gypped, but not that badly.
5. Why Google and YouTube Suck, October 2012
I no longer think this, btw. My default browser is Chrome, I use Gmail, and I even have a Google Pixel phone. Here's some snippets:
"I am giving IE another chance. Google Chrome pushed me too far, so I’m going to see if IE can do enough to pull me back in." - Well I guess I gave them another chance but they couldn't win me over.
"I really believe that Bing is just as good (if not better) of a search engine than Google" - I mean, I still use Bing from time to time, but I find Google to overall provide me better results.
"Forget about me using Google as my regular search engine. And now you can forget about me using Google Chrome anymore" - We all have to eat our own words at some point.
4. Top Ten Things I Am Looking Forward to Most in My Future, September 2010
Well, 5 of these still haven't happened 9 years later. The ending to HIMYM was a letdown. I at least live with Amanda now having moved out. I've been to Hawaii. The Seahawks won the Super Bowl. But that's about it. Still working on the job/house/family aspects.
3. The Seattle Mariners: Destined to be a bottom dweller or turning the corner?, March 2011
"I’m giving the Mariners until 2015. That’s four years. I’ll be 26 when they play that year. If the Mariners don’t make it back to the playoffs by then and don’t look like they will soon, I will stop following them."
Oops. The year is 2019. The Mariners are undergoing a rebuild (in other words, it doesn't look like they'll make the playoffs soon) and I am still following them. I think it was because they gave me hope in 2016 and 2018, so I delayed it. Now... well I feel like I'm giving them one last shot.
2. 2012 - My Year to Shine, September 2011
"I promise you this. I will give it my all next year to get back into school. I will go back to school"
"In 2012, I will do the Insanity workout yet again, and this time I will complete it, even if I get sick."
Oof. This one stings. I did neither. I'm not proud of it. I just could never figure out the right school for me. I did try Insanity again. I'm not sure why I didn't complete it. But 2012 was far from my year to shine. I hate looking back on this and realizing what I could have and should have done.
1. Current State of Seattle Sports, March 2010
One of my oldest blog posts also happens to be one of my worst predictions. Here are some things that stand out from this:
"Speaking of Locker, he is not only expected to be the Pac-10 player of the year, but also a contendor for the Heismann Trophy" -Yikes... plus the misspelling of "contender"
"Probably the team in the worst shape in Seattle is the Seahawks" - Yet they were the next to win a championship
"The team recently acquired Charlie Whitehurst,[...] the Seahawks front office and coaching staff predict him to the be the quarterback of the future" - He wasn't even the quarterback for a full season
"The Seattle Mariners have high hopes for their 2010 season. Newly acquired Cliff Lee, Chone Figgins, Casey Kotchman, and Milton Bradley hope to improve this team upon its surprising 2009 season." - My word... Not one of those guys made a significant impact, at least positively.
"I expect the Mariners to be in the playoff hunt at least until late August and more than likely into September." - The Mariners lost 101 games and were already 10 games under .500 by the middle of May.
Yeah... that did not age well at all. You just can't predict the future in any sport, really.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
The Seattle Mariners are Cursed
The Seattle Mariners are cursed. They
find ways to lose games, and they find ways to miss the playoffs. They did something to anger the baseball
gods, although I do not know what that would have been. But I have believed for a long time now that
the Mariners are cursed. They have the
worst luck of any team I have seen both in games and season by season. The Red Sox used to have a curse, the
"Curse of the Bambino". The
Cubs used to have a curse, the "Curse of the Billy Goat". I believe the Mariners were inflicted with a similar
curse.
The year would've been 2001. The baseball gods are not happy with the Seattle Mariners. They helped assemble us some of the best talent of their generation. Four sure fire Hall of Famers played on the Mariners in the late 90's. And we let three of them go. We were supposed to win a World Series with these players, but couldn't even get there. Then we let them go. Randy was traded. Griffey was traded. We let Alex test free agency and he signed with the rival Rangers. Edgar stayed, but was older than all of them and closest to the end of his career. The baseball gods did not like this. We then spurned them by signing Bret Boone and Ichiro. We won 116 games, which I'm sure made the gods angry. How was this team, without A-Rod, Griffey, and Randy, winning 116 games? They promptly inflicted us with fatigue and prevented us from reaching the World Series. Not only that, but they inflicted the Mariners with bad luck in everything they do: Trades, free agency, and in games.
When you ask a casual baseball fan about the Seattle Mariners, they might say that the Mariners don't make the playoffs much. It's not for lack of trying. And many teams have been very close. Five times since 2002 the Mariners have been the best team in the American League NOT to make it to the playoffs. That's more times than they've made the playoffs in THEIR ENTIRE HISTORY. That's right: The Mariners have more often been a few games away from making the playoffs in the past 17 years than they have made the playoffs in all of their existence. What kind of team has this kind of luck? A cursed team.
Speaking of playoffs, the Mariners have made the playoffs in just four of their 43 seasons. When there were four playoff teams, any team had a 27% chance of making the playoffs. Now that there are five playoff teams with the addition of another wild card, the playoff chances rise to 33%. But the Mariners have made it for just 9% of their existence. And most notably and recently, the Mariners have the longest playoff drought in all of North American professional sports at 18 years. That is like spinning an item, and for 18 consecutive tries never getting it to face North. Unreal.
It's amazing to me how often Mariner's opponents get a lucky break and how often the Mariners get a bad one. Watch pretty much any one of their games. A ball that lands foul for the Mariners is a fair ball for their opponents. It also seems on replay reviews that calls go against the Mariners for more often than their opponents. I wish I had a nickel for every time I heard Mariners play-by-play man Dave Sims say, "Tough break for the Mariners."
What shall we name this curse? The easiest answer would be to find a player who left after 2001. The most notable I see is Jay Buhner. We could call it the "Curse of the Bone". It's kind of got an eerie and dark vibe to it. Granted, Jay Buhner only played 19 games in 2001, but he was still a clubhouse presence and leader on that team. My other choice would be the "Curse of the Big Three." The big three being Randy, Griffey, and A-Rod. They were the big three that left, and aside from 2001 we haven't made the playoffs without them... at all. Not before them, not after. But I'll stick with the "Curse of the Bone".
Jerry Dipoto has decided to have this team go through a rebuild process. He acquired quite a few prospects and he'll probably acquire even more as the trade deadline draws near. The expected run at the playoffs will happen in 2022. All I'm going to say is this: If a lot of these prospects fail (as so many of ours have in recent years), and we fail to make the playoffs during that run, there will be no doubt whatsoever in my mind that this team is full on cursed. And there shouldn't be any doubt in your mind, either.
The year would've been 2001. The baseball gods are not happy with the Seattle Mariners. They helped assemble us some of the best talent of their generation. Four sure fire Hall of Famers played on the Mariners in the late 90's. And we let three of them go. We were supposed to win a World Series with these players, but couldn't even get there. Then we let them go. Randy was traded. Griffey was traded. We let Alex test free agency and he signed with the rival Rangers. Edgar stayed, but was older than all of them and closest to the end of his career. The baseball gods did not like this. We then spurned them by signing Bret Boone and Ichiro. We won 116 games, which I'm sure made the gods angry. How was this team, without A-Rod, Griffey, and Randy, winning 116 games? They promptly inflicted us with fatigue and prevented us from reaching the World Series. Not only that, but they inflicted the Mariners with bad luck in everything they do: Trades, free agency, and in games.
When you ask a casual baseball fan about the Seattle Mariners, they might say that the Mariners don't make the playoffs much. It's not for lack of trying. And many teams have been very close. Five times since 2002 the Mariners have been the best team in the American League NOT to make it to the playoffs. That's more times than they've made the playoffs in THEIR ENTIRE HISTORY. That's right: The Mariners have more often been a few games away from making the playoffs in the past 17 years than they have made the playoffs in all of their existence. What kind of team has this kind of luck? A cursed team.
Speaking of playoffs, the Mariners have made the playoffs in just four of their 43 seasons. When there were four playoff teams, any team had a 27% chance of making the playoffs. Now that there are five playoff teams with the addition of another wild card, the playoff chances rise to 33%. But the Mariners have made it for just 9% of their existence. And most notably and recently, the Mariners have the longest playoff drought in all of North American professional sports at 18 years. That is like spinning an item, and for 18 consecutive tries never getting it to face North. Unreal.
It's amazing to me how often Mariner's opponents get a lucky break and how often the Mariners get a bad one. Watch pretty much any one of their games. A ball that lands foul for the Mariners is a fair ball for their opponents. It also seems on replay reviews that calls go against the Mariners for more often than their opponents. I wish I had a nickel for every time I heard Mariners play-by-play man Dave Sims say, "Tough break for the Mariners."
What shall we name this curse? The easiest answer would be to find a player who left after 2001. The most notable I see is Jay Buhner. We could call it the "Curse of the Bone". It's kind of got an eerie and dark vibe to it. Granted, Jay Buhner only played 19 games in 2001, but he was still a clubhouse presence and leader on that team. My other choice would be the "Curse of the Big Three." The big three being Randy, Griffey, and A-Rod. They were the big three that left, and aside from 2001 we haven't made the playoffs without them... at all. Not before them, not after. But I'll stick with the "Curse of the Bone".
Jerry Dipoto has decided to have this team go through a rebuild process. He acquired quite a few prospects and he'll probably acquire even more as the trade deadline draws near. The expected run at the playoffs will happen in 2022. All I'm going to say is this: If a lot of these prospects fail (as so many of ours have in recent years), and we fail to make the playoffs during that run, there will be no doubt whatsoever in my mind that this team is full on cursed. And there shouldn't be any doubt in your mind, either.
Tuesday, June 11, 2019
Best Players by Jersey Number in Mariners History
Well, I did one for the Seahawks, so I will do one for the Mariners as
well! For this one, it's not quite as
easy for me to see a player's value (I have to click on each of their
individual pages this time), so for the most part I'll just be going by what I
remember. I'm doing numbers 1-59 (with
one exception), as there haven't been too many players to wear a uniform number
of 60 or above. I'll tend to favor
players that I saw play, but mainly ones in the 90's and early 2000's. That's when the Mariners were at their best,
anyway. Here we go...
I'm editing this in 2022, and there were a few changes I'll highlight in BLUE.
0. Sam Haggerty, UT: It's either Swaggerty or Mallex Smith, and Mallex Smith should never be considered the best at anything in Mariners history. At least Sam has provided some versatility and filled in will at multiple spots.
1. Kyle Lewis, OF/DH (prev. Charles Gipson): I think it's safe to say Lewis eclipsed Gipson after just the shortened 2020 season when Kyle won Rookie of the Year. Unfortunately, Kyle has battled injuries, but he shows he simply just hits when he is healthy.
2. Kenji Johjima, C: Kenji wasn't with us for terribly long but it was either him, Randy Winn, or a couple years of Jean Segura. Tom Murphy has come close, but his season-ending shoulder injury in 2022 hurts his chances, as well as the emergence of Cal Raleigh for the future.
3. Alex Rodriguez, SS: First easy call. I know, A-Rod's a total douche, but he put up some amazing numbers as a Mariner. Next closest was probably Zunino. JP Crawford would actually be next now, but I'd still keep A-Rod ahead of him for the time being. JP has either got to lead us to multiple playoff berths or come close to A-Rod in terms of numbers.
4. Harold Reynolds, 2B: Another easy choice. Not too much competition at #4, mainly Jose Lopez and Mark McLemore. But Harold beats both those guys. Fun fact: I worked with someone who wore #4 for the Mariners: Giomar Guevara.
5. John Olerud, 1B: Yet another easy call. He's probably the 2nd best first baseman in team history (kinda sad to think about, since Johnny O had more success in Toronto and New York). Both Beltre and Ibanez wore #5, but only for one season.
6. Dan Wilson, C: Another catcher (probably the last one?). Dan is considered the best catcher in team history, so he has to be on here. Next closest was Julio Cruz.
7. Marco Gonzalez, SP (Previously Spike Owen): I had to go with Marco this time around, as he has been an anchor throughout a pitching staff undergoing a transition and a leader on a team undergoing a rebuild.
8. Rich Amaral, UT: Need a utility guy on here, and Rich was a part of those exciting 90s teams that made noise.
9. Ruppert Jones, OF: Ruppert wins this over Luis Sojo because he had much better WAR. I've heard good things about Ruppert, who I think was the Mariners first All-Star.
10. Dave Valle, C: Well, I was wrong, Wilson was not the last catcher. Dave Valle had a decent career with the M's, but maybe more known for being an analyst for FSN and Root Sports. Perhaps someday Jarred Kelenic can claim this spot, but not quite yet.
11. Edgar Martinez, DH: Like with Largent, Big Walt, and Tez on the Hawks, if you have your number retired there is never any question or doubt. Edgar takes this by a mile.
12. Mark Langston, SP: The first pitcher! Langston was one of the M's best pitchers in the 80's. However, he is most known for being in the trade that netted us the Big Unit, Randy Johnson. Evan White did win a Gold Glove at first base in 2020, but has battled injury and has lost his 1B spot to Ty France.
13. Omar Vizquel, SS: I don't like to pick players who had more success on other teams, but there was no competition for :Little O". The next closest were Bobby Ayala (Ha!), Dustin Ackley, and Jeff Fassero. Yikes.
14. Tom Paciorek, OF: Here we have the weird baseball thing in where managers wear numbers (unlike football and basketball) and this number hasn't been worn since Sweet Lou donned it. I don't know if the team will retire it in his honor, but no one has worn it since. Tom Paciorek had a few good years for us in the late 70s and early 80s, including an All-Star selection in 1981.
15. Kyle Seager, 3B: Not much doubt here. An interesting stat: Kyle is 7th all time in Mariners history in WAR (Wins Above Replacement). Yet, he has NEVER led the Mariners any year in WAR. Everyone ahead of him in Mariners history for WAR has for at least one season, but not Kyle. In Kyle's best years he was beat out both times by Robinson Cano.
16. Mike Blowers, 3B: And this is not just because he does color commentating for the Mariners. I believe he has the highest WAR out of anyone to wear the #16. Next closest was Willie Bloomquist.
17. Mitch Haniger, OF: He's already got the most WAR of any player with this number in team history. Hopefully he can stay with us for a while longer to make this a no-contest. Next closest were Shigetoshi Hasegawa, Glenn Abbott, and Jim Presley.
18. Hisashi Iwakuma, SP: Kuma has one of the team's no-hitters, but not just that he pitched very good baseball for us for 6 seasons. And, his entire MLB career was with us.
19. Jay Buhner, RF: Like Lou Piniella, this number has not been given out since Jay retired, yet the number has not been retired in his honor. One thing I remember is seeing a #19 Buhner jersey everywhere I went in the 90s and early 2000s.
20. J.J. Putz, RP: JJ is actually 3rd in team history in saves, if you can believe it. He unfortunately had to play on some bad Mariner teams in the mid-2000s, but in 2007 he not only made the All-Star team but got a few MVP votes! Daniel Vogelbach went on a bit of a run, even earning an All-Star bid, but to me he falls short of JJ.
21. Alvin Davis, 1B: I unfortunately didn't get to see Davis play, but if someone has the nickname "Mr. Mariner" he has to be on here.
22. Kazuhiro Sasaki, RP: It was between Kaz and Robinson Cano. Cano has the better WAR, but that's not hard to do when comparing relief pitchers to starting position players. I chose Kaz for two reasons: One, he was on better teams and helped us to the playoffs twice, and two, he never got suspended for PED's.
23. Nelson Cruz, DH/OF: It wasn't the easiest decision, with Tino Martinez and Bruce Bochte close runners up. But Nelson has got to be the 2nd best DH in team history, and would be the best if not for Edgar. I will consider Ty France here if he is able to keep up his production for a few years.
24. Ken Griffey, Jr., CF: Like with 'Gar, there's no question when your number is retired. Junior still has the highest WAR in team history.
25. Mike Moore, SP: Didn't see him pitch, but he got some Cy Young votes in 1985 when he went 17-10 with an ERA of 3.46.
26. Brendan Ryan, SS: Yeah, I know. I believe he leads the team in WAR for #26, though. Just haven't been many good ones at this number. Fun fact: In 2011, Brendan hit .248 with 3 HR's and 39 RBI. He LEAD THE TEAM IN WAR THAT YEAR. Most of it was from his stellar defense, but wow.
27. Matt Tuiasosopo, UT: I just... there's no one else. Nobody else has worn the number for more than TWO SEASONS. Jesse Winker has this number currently, so it won't take much for him to claim this spot. Two semi-productive seasons should do it, honestly.
28. Raul Ibanez, OF: Pretty easy choice. Raul is easily forgotten as he never played on a playoff team for the M's, but he put up some really good numbers. Good for 23rd in team history.
29. Adrian Beltre, 3B: This was a pretty tough choice. There were a lot of runners up: Bret Boone, Chris Bosio (author of a no-hitter), and Phil Bradley. Beltre won out by having the highest WAR, and Boone was linked to PED's so I decided not to seriously consider him.
30. Aaron Sele, SP: He only pitched for us for three seasons, but the ones in 2000 and 2001 helped us to the playoffs. Next closest was Ed Nunez.
31. Jerry Reed, RP: There's not much else. I had never really heard of him. But who was I going to choose, Erasmo Ramirez? Ryan Feierabend? Yoervis Medina? Steve Cishek? Those are the next closest.
32. Ed Vande Berg, RP: Another relief pitcher. No one else close again. Marco Gonzalez HAD this number... so now we won't have anyone claim this title for a while.
33. Bob Wolcott, SP: Bob helped us to a couple playoffs in '95 and '97. He was also a fairly decent pitcher. There's also not much competition for this number.
34. Felix Hernandez, SP: No question. Felix holds a lot of the pitching records for the Mariners, and has thrown the only perfect game in team history. Next closest was the man who inspired him to wear #34, Freddy Garcia.
35. Dave Fleming, SP: He was only good for a season or two in the early 90s, but again not much competition. We're gonna see that more and more the higher we get.
36. Logan Gilbert, SP: Yes, after only a little over a year of big league work, I'm putting Logan here. I'm betting on him being a rotation mainstay for years to come. He should've been an All-Star in 2022.
37. Norm Charlton, RP: "The Sherriff" easily takes this spot. He is still one of the best and most well-liked pitchers in team history. Next closest would've been... Clint Nageotte? Brandon Maurer? Paul Sewald has emerged and I'd be ok giving him this title if he can anchor the bullpen for a few more years.
38. Joel Pineiro, SP: Joel was quite a decent pitcher for us in the early 2000s. I really liked him. I like the way his name was pronounced. JOE-EL PIN-YARE-O.
39. Erik Hanson, SP: Erik was quite a decent pitcher for us in the late 80s and early 90s, but before my time. His 1990 season was one of the best of that time: 18-9, 3.24 ERA with 211 strikeouts. And that was on a team that lost 85 games. Next closest was Edwin Diaz.
40. Matt Young, SP: The twelfth (!) starting pitcher on this list so far, Matt Young had a few decent years with us in the 80s. He even made the All-Star team as a rookie in 1983. Beats out Mike Schooler and Julio Mateo.
41. Charlie Furbush, RP: Charlie was a decent lefty specialist for us for a while. It's a shame injuries sidelined his career. Fun fact: He's engaged to Q13 Fox reporter Michelle Ludtka.
42. Dave Henderson, OF: This number was last worn by Butch Huskey (remember him? Also, what a name) in 1999. But Hendu (RIP) wore it the longest and played the best in it. Fun fact: The Mariners, like the Seahawks, also had a player named Michael Jackson and he wore this number.
43. Jeff Nelson, RP: "Nellie" takes this fairly easily, having three separate stints with the Mariners. Better to give it to him than Brandon League (bleh!) or Miguel Batista. Two fun facts. One, Jeff Nelson is still the only Mariner I've ever gotten the autograph of (and 2nd that I've met). And two, Jay Buhner wore this number for one season in 1988.
44. Mike Cameron, OF: "Cammie" takes this fairly easily. It wasn't easy taking over in center field after Junior was traded, but boy did he do it well. Still the only Mariner to hit four home runs in a game. Current M's analyst for Root Sports Bill Krueger wore this number. Julio Rodriguez has absolutely burst onto the scene, and it might not be too long before he passes Cammie here.
45. Jim Beattie, SP: Still not done with starting pitching. Jim Beattie takes this over Ryan Franklin. Jim was a starter for us in the 80s, and while his record isn't impressive (43-72), he did it on some pretty bad teams.
46. Mike Stanton, RP: No, not the Mike Stanton that pitched for the Yankees nor the Stanton that goes by Giancarlo now. Mike was a decent reliever for us in the 80s. He takes it over Bob Wells, who I used to get mixed up with Bobby Ayala.
47. Ron Villone, RP/SP: Ron takes this honor, although there wasn't much competition. Villone was a first round draft pick of us in 1992, but didn't make his mark (or wear this number) until the mid 2000s. He also played for twelve (!) teams in his big league career. Next closest was utility man, the lanky John Mabry.
48. Paul Abbott, SP: Paul pitched for us around the turn of the millennium, and while he was never an outstanding starter, he always rounded out our rotation pretty well. He was probably one of the game's best #4 or 5 starters at the time. Next closest was Bryan Clark.
49. Wade LeBlanc, SP: It says quite a bit that I chose a player who only played two seasons with us. Next closest was Roy Thomas. Kendall Graveman pitched well out of the pen, just not long enough.
50. Jamie Moyer, SP: Was there any question? Jamie's definitely in our Top 5 starters of all time. He was the last to win 20 games for us and may be the last ever.
51. Ichiro Suzuki, OF: Ok, if I wanted to I could split this award and give it to both Ichiro and Randy Johnson. But the fact that Randy was upset and basically requested a trade, plus he went into the Hall of Fame as a Diamondback and not a Mariner, makes me give this to Ichiro outright. Ichiro beats him in WAR as well (56.3-39.0). The team should retire the number in Ichiro's honor and not Randy's, but will probably retire it in both.
52. George Sherrill, RP: The "Hefty Lefty" I call him, because George put on some weight as his career went on. But he was a very good lefty specialist for us.
53. Arthur Rhodes, RP: Another lefty specialist. Arthur "Thunder" Rhodes didn't always wear this number but he primarily did. And he was a good reliever for us on some good teams.
54. Tom Wilhelmsen, RP: "The Bartender", as he was an actual bartender not long before the M's signed him and he became one of the better relievers in team history. Next closest was John Halama.
55. Gil Meche, SP: For some reason I've always remembered his full name: Gilbert Allen Meche. Came up as a 20 year old in 1999 and missed a couple years in 2001 and 2002 before coming back and pitching well. Too bad he left for KC because we didn't want to pay him that much money. Next closest was "The Condor", Michael Saunders.
56. Jarrod Washburn, SP: I started calling him Jarrod "Washed up"Burn whenever he had a bad outing. Not much competition for this number. Greg Halman wore this number though... RIP.
57. Mark Lowe, RP: Mark Lowe did pitch for us in two separate stints, and in between those stints he unfortunately became famous for giving up the walk off home run to David Freese in Game 6 of the 2011 World Series.
58. Doug Fister, SP: Ok we're getting into the territory where not too many players wore the number of. In fact, nobody wore number 58 until after the turn of the millennium. Doug was a good pitcher for us for a few seasons.
59. Eric O'Flaherty, RP: Again, not too many players. O'Flaherty is one of only 3 to wear this number for more than one season and the only one to wear it for 3 seasons.
65. James Paxton, SP: Too bad we had to trade "Big Pax" or "Big Maple". But he could never get over the injury bug. But when healthy and consistent his pitching ability would be Top 5 for lefties in team history.
Of course I had to include Big Pax, but other than him there weren't any real decent players to wear a jersey number that high. All in all, a very solid list, with two numbers retired and another one imminent (51, Ichiro/Randy) and yet another very possible (34, Felix).
I'm editing this in 2022, and there were a few changes I'll highlight in BLUE.
0. Sam Haggerty, UT: It's either Swaggerty or Mallex Smith, and Mallex Smith should never be considered the best at anything in Mariners history. At least Sam has provided some versatility and filled in will at multiple spots.
1. Kyle Lewis, OF/DH (prev. Charles Gipson): I think it's safe to say Lewis eclipsed Gipson after just the shortened 2020 season when Kyle won Rookie of the Year. Unfortunately, Kyle has battled injuries, but he shows he simply just hits when he is healthy.
2. Kenji Johjima, C: Kenji wasn't with us for terribly long but it was either him, Randy Winn, or a couple years of Jean Segura. Tom Murphy has come close, but his season-ending shoulder injury in 2022 hurts his chances, as well as the emergence of Cal Raleigh for the future.
3. Alex Rodriguez, SS: First easy call. I know, A-Rod's a total douche, but he put up some amazing numbers as a Mariner. Next closest was probably Zunino. JP Crawford would actually be next now, but I'd still keep A-Rod ahead of him for the time being. JP has either got to lead us to multiple playoff berths or come close to A-Rod in terms of numbers.
4. Harold Reynolds, 2B: Another easy choice. Not too much competition at #4, mainly Jose Lopez and Mark McLemore. But Harold beats both those guys. Fun fact: I worked with someone who wore #4 for the Mariners: Giomar Guevara.
5. John Olerud, 1B: Yet another easy call. He's probably the 2nd best first baseman in team history (kinda sad to think about, since Johnny O had more success in Toronto and New York). Both Beltre and Ibanez wore #5, but only for one season.
6. Dan Wilson, C: Another catcher (probably the last one?). Dan is considered the best catcher in team history, so he has to be on here. Next closest was Julio Cruz.
7. Marco Gonzalez, SP (Previously Spike Owen): I had to go with Marco this time around, as he has been an anchor throughout a pitching staff undergoing a transition and a leader on a team undergoing a rebuild.
8. Rich Amaral, UT: Need a utility guy on here, and Rich was a part of those exciting 90s teams that made noise.
9. Ruppert Jones, OF: Ruppert wins this over Luis Sojo because he had much better WAR. I've heard good things about Ruppert, who I think was the Mariners first All-Star.
10. Dave Valle, C: Well, I was wrong, Wilson was not the last catcher. Dave Valle had a decent career with the M's, but maybe more known for being an analyst for FSN and Root Sports. Perhaps someday Jarred Kelenic can claim this spot, but not quite yet.
11. Edgar Martinez, DH: Like with Largent, Big Walt, and Tez on the Hawks, if you have your number retired there is never any question or doubt. Edgar takes this by a mile.
12. Mark Langston, SP: The first pitcher! Langston was one of the M's best pitchers in the 80's. However, he is most known for being in the trade that netted us the Big Unit, Randy Johnson. Evan White did win a Gold Glove at first base in 2020, but has battled injury and has lost his 1B spot to Ty France.
13. Omar Vizquel, SS: I don't like to pick players who had more success on other teams, but there was no competition for :Little O". The next closest were Bobby Ayala (Ha!), Dustin Ackley, and Jeff Fassero. Yikes.
14. Tom Paciorek, OF: Here we have the weird baseball thing in where managers wear numbers (unlike football and basketball) and this number hasn't been worn since Sweet Lou donned it. I don't know if the team will retire it in his honor, but no one has worn it since. Tom Paciorek had a few good years for us in the late 70s and early 80s, including an All-Star selection in 1981.
15. Kyle Seager, 3B: Not much doubt here. An interesting stat: Kyle is 7th all time in Mariners history in WAR (Wins Above Replacement). Yet, he has NEVER led the Mariners any year in WAR. Everyone ahead of him in Mariners history for WAR has for at least one season, but not Kyle. In Kyle's best years he was beat out both times by Robinson Cano.
16. Mike Blowers, 3B: And this is not just because he does color commentating for the Mariners. I believe he has the highest WAR out of anyone to wear the #16. Next closest was Willie Bloomquist.
17. Mitch Haniger, OF: He's already got the most WAR of any player with this number in team history. Hopefully he can stay with us for a while longer to make this a no-contest. Next closest were Shigetoshi Hasegawa, Glenn Abbott, and Jim Presley.
18. Hisashi Iwakuma, SP: Kuma has one of the team's no-hitters, but not just that he pitched very good baseball for us for 6 seasons. And, his entire MLB career was with us.
19. Jay Buhner, RF: Like Lou Piniella, this number has not been given out since Jay retired, yet the number has not been retired in his honor. One thing I remember is seeing a #19 Buhner jersey everywhere I went in the 90s and early 2000s.
20. J.J. Putz, RP: JJ is actually 3rd in team history in saves, if you can believe it. He unfortunately had to play on some bad Mariner teams in the mid-2000s, but in 2007 he not only made the All-Star team but got a few MVP votes! Daniel Vogelbach went on a bit of a run, even earning an All-Star bid, but to me he falls short of JJ.
21. Alvin Davis, 1B: I unfortunately didn't get to see Davis play, but if someone has the nickname "Mr. Mariner" he has to be on here.
22. Kazuhiro Sasaki, RP: It was between Kaz and Robinson Cano. Cano has the better WAR, but that's not hard to do when comparing relief pitchers to starting position players. I chose Kaz for two reasons: One, he was on better teams and helped us to the playoffs twice, and two, he never got suspended for PED's.
23. Nelson Cruz, DH/OF: It wasn't the easiest decision, with Tino Martinez and Bruce Bochte close runners up. But Nelson has got to be the 2nd best DH in team history, and would be the best if not for Edgar. I will consider Ty France here if he is able to keep up his production for a few years.
24. Ken Griffey, Jr., CF: Like with 'Gar, there's no question when your number is retired. Junior still has the highest WAR in team history.
25. Mike Moore, SP: Didn't see him pitch, but he got some Cy Young votes in 1985 when he went 17-10 with an ERA of 3.46.
26. Brendan Ryan, SS: Yeah, I know. I believe he leads the team in WAR for #26, though. Just haven't been many good ones at this number. Fun fact: In 2011, Brendan hit .248 with 3 HR's and 39 RBI. He LEAD THE TEAM IN WAR THAT YEAR. Most of it was from his stellar defense, but wow.
27. Matt Tuiasosopo, UT: I just... there's no one else. Nobody else has worn the number for more than TWO SEASONS. Jesse Winker has this number currently, so it won't take much for him to claim this spot. Two semi-productive seasons should do it, honestly.
28. Raul Ibanez, OF: Pretty easy choice. Raul is easily forgotten as he never played on a playoff team for the M's, but he put up some really good numbers. Good for 23rd in team history.
29. Adrian Beltre, 3B: This was a pretty tough choice. There were a lot of runners up: Bret Boone, Chris Bosio (author of a no-hitter), and Phil Bradley. Beltre won out by having the highest WAR, and Boone was linked to PED's so I decided not to seriously consider him.
30. Aaron Sele, SP: He only pitched for us for three seasons, but the ones in 2000 and 2001 helped us to the playoffs. Next closest was Ed Nunez.
31. Jerry Reed, RP: There's not much else. I had never really heard of him. But who was I going to choose, Erasmo Ramirez? Ryan Feierabend? Yoervis Medina? Steve Cishek? Those are the next closest.
32. Ed Vande Berg, RP: Another relief pitcher. No one else close again. Marco Gonzalez HAD this number... so now we won't have anyone claim this title for a while.
33. Bob Wolcott, SP: Bob helped us to a couple playoffs in '95 and '97. He was also a fairly decent pitcher. There's also not much competition for this number.
34. Felix Hernandez, SP: No question. Felix holds a lot of the pitching records for the Mariners, and has thrown the only perfect game in team history. Next closest was the man who inspired him to wear #34, Freddy Garcia.
35. Dave Fleming, SP: He was only good for a season or two in the early 90s, but again not much competition. We're gonna see that more and more the higher we get.
36. Logan Gilbert, SP: Yes, after only a little over a year of big league work, I'm putting Logan here. I'm betting on him being a rotation mainstay for years to come. He should've been an All-Star in 2022.
37. Norm Charlton, RP: "The Sherriff" easily takes this spot. He is still one of the best and most well-liked pitchers in team history. Next closest would've been... Clint Nageotte? Brandon Maurer? Paul Sewald has emerged and I'd be ok giving him this title if he can anchor the bullpen for a few more years.
38. Joel Pineiro, SP: Joel was quite a decent pitcher for us in the early 2000s. I really liked him. I like the way his name was pronounced. JOE-EL PIN-YARE-O.
39. Erik Hanson, SP: Erik was quite a decent pitcher for us in the late 80s and early 90s, but before my time. His 1990 season was one of the best of that time: 18-9, 3.24 ERA with 211 strikeouts. And that was on a team that lost 85 games. Next closest was Edwin Diaz.
40. Matt Young, SP: The twelfth (!) starting pitcher on this list so far, Matt Young had a few decent years with us in the 80s. He even made the All-Star team as a rookie in 1983. Beats out Mike Schooler and Julio Mateo.
41. Charlie Furbush, RP: Charlie was a decent lefty specialist for us for a while. It's a shame injuries sidelined his career. Fun fact: He's engaged to Q13 Fox reporter Michelle Ludtka.
42. Dave Henderson, OF: This number was last worn by Butch Huskey (remember him? Also, what a name) in 1999. But Hendu (RIP) wore it the longest and played the best in it. Fun fact: The Mariners, like the Seahawks, also had a player named Michael Jackson and he wore this number.
43. Jeff Nelson, RP: "Nellie" takes this fairly easily, having three separate stints with the Mariners. Better to give it to him than Brandon League (bleh!) or Miguel Batista. Two fun facts. One, Jeff Nelson is still the only Mariner I've ever gotten the autograph of (and 2nd that I've met). And two, Jay Buhner wore this number for one season in 1988.
44. Mike Cameron, OF: "Cammie" takes this fairly easily. It wasn't easy taking over in center field after Junior was traded, but boy did he do it well. Still the only Mariner to hit four home runs in a game. Current M's analyst for Root Sports Bill Krueger wore this number. Julio Rodriguez has absolutely burst onto the scene, and it might not be too long before he passes Cammie here.
45. Jim Beattie, SP: Still not done with starting pitching. Jim Beattie takes this over Ryan Franklin. Jim was a starter for us in the 80s, and while his record isn't impressive (43-72), he did it on some pretty bad teams.
46. Mike Stanton, RP: No, not the Mike Stanton that pitched for the Yankees nor the Stanton that goes by Giancarlo now. Mike was a decent reliever for us in the 80s. He takes it over Bob Wells, who I used to get mixed up with Bobby Ayala.
47. Ron Villone, RP/SP: Ron takes this honor, although there wasn't much competition. Villone was a first round draft pick of us in 1992, but didn't make his mark (or wear this number) until the mid 2000s. He also played for twelve (!) teams in his big league career. Next closest was utility man, the lanky John Mabry.
48. Paul Abbott, SP: Paul pitched for us around the turn of the millennium, and while he was never an outstanding starter, he always rounded out our rotation pretty well. He was probably one of the game's best #4 or 5 starters at the time. Next closest was Bryan Clark.
49. Wade LeBlanc, SP: It says quite a bit that I chose a player who only played two seasons with us. Next closest was Roy Thomas. Kendall Graveman pitched well out of the pen, just not long enough.
50. Jamie Moyer, SP: Was there any question? Jamie's definitely in our Top 5 starters of all time. He was the last to win 20 games for us and may be the last ever.
51. Ichiro Suzuki, OF: Ok, if I wanted to I could split this award and give it to both Ichiro and Randy Johnson. But the fact that Randy was upset and basically requested a trade, plus he went into the Hall of Fame as a Diamondback and not a Mariner, makes me give this to Ichiro outright. Ichiro beats him in WAR as well (56.3-39.0). The team should retire the number in Ichiro's honor and not Randy's, but will probably retire it in both.
52. George Sherrill, RP: The "Hefty Lefty" I call him, because George put on some weight as his career went on. But he was a very good lefty specialist for us.
53. Arthur Rhodes, RP: Another lefty specialist. Arthur "Thunder" Rhodes didn't always wear this number but he primarily did. And he was a good reliever for us on some good teams.
54. Tom Wilhelmsen, RP: "The Bartender", as he was an actual bartender not long before the M's signed him and he became one of the better relievers in team history. Next closest was John Halama.
55. Gil Meche, SP: For some reason I've always remembered his full name: Gilbert Allen Meche. Came up as a 20 year old in 1999 and missed a couple years in 2001 and 2002 before coming back and pitching well. Too bad he left for KC because we didn't want to pay him that much money. Next closest was "The Condor", Michael Saunders.
56. Jarrod Washburn, SP: I started calling him Jarrod "Washed up"Burn whenever he had a bad outing. Not much competition for this number. Greg Halman wore this number though... RIP.
57. Mark Lowe, RP: Mark Lowe did pitch for us in two separate stints, and in between those stints he unfortunately became famous for giving up the walk off home run to David Freese in Game 6 of the 2011 World Series.
58. Doug Fister, SP: Ok we're getting into the territory where not too many players wore the number of. In fact, nobody wore number 58 until after the turn of the millennium. Doug was a good pitcher for us for a few seasons.
59. Eric O'Flaherty, RP: Again, not too many players. O'Flaherty is one of only 3 to wear this number for more than one season and the only one to wear it for 3 seasons.
65. James Paxton, SP: Too bad we had to trade "Big Pax" or "Big Maple". But he could never get over the injury bug. But when healthy and consistent his pitching ability would be Top 5 for lefties in team history.
Of course I had to include Big Pax, but other than him there weren't any real decent players to wear a jersey number that high. All in all, a very solid list, with two numbers retired and another one imminent (51, Ichiro/Randy) and yet another very possible (34, Felix).
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