Leworthy's Red Bull Playoff Preview!! Get it while it's hot!

Okay folks, it all comes down to tonight. We can celebrate a Red Bull win or we can go home seeing another year pass us by and think to ourselves "We blew it, again." I mean let's face it, with the second highest payroll in the league and 2 of the best DP's in the league with Henry and Cahill, we should come out with a win tonight.. And I'm not even counting Rafa Marquez because he's been an absolute bust.

A couple things we got going for us is first and foremost we are at home tonight where we are unstoppable. Henry feeds off of those bright New York (really New Jersey) lights. Second with DC losing Dwayne DeRo mid season to injury they haven't been nearly as creative since the loss. They have become an outright energy team that may be good but can bite them in ass if caught on a counter.

A couple of things not going for us is the weather right now. It's a crazy nor'easter right now (I myself love it, because I'm waiting for ski season to get under way!!!). We are kind of a finesse team and we need those good conditions to play our game. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Secondly Cahill is questionable with a strained calf. I know he wants to play and says he will, but I can totally see those bullshit trainers saying no, especially with the weather. Again, wait and see game.

My prediction 1-0 Red Bulls with a Joel Lindpere goal. He's a scrappy enough of a player that he could just charge in this weather pick up a rebound goal. Dude never gives up. Plus he's from Estonia. Place just sounds cold and drops snow 10 out of 12 months.

12 pack in the fridge ready to go... just waiting for kickoff C'mon Red Bulls don't let me down.

GOOOOO RED BULLS!!!

New York Red Bulls Preview/Prediction

by Ryan Leworthy
Okay Red Bulls, no more messing around and let's get our game faces on!

Let's start to look like the team we were in the middle of the season, when we couldn't be beat at home and Thierry Henry and Kenny Cooper were unloading goals like they were shells from a shotgun. Let's be real for a second, we have NOT looked good the past month or so. Yes we sprinkled in a win here and there, but we need that big win against a big team because it's about to be playoff time and we can't be f***ing around anymore!

Saturday we got the Philadelphia Union, which is a big rivalry game for us. Now, the Union haven't been solid at all this year, but we still need to win. I say we start our big guns because we need this win so bad. The playoff implications are right there. There are so many different scenarios, so take a look, http://www.newyorkredbulls.com/blog/post/2012/10/25/lets-take-look-playoff-scenarios-heading-weekend. I'm too lazy to write all that down.

Prediction: 3-1 Red Bulls. Goals by Cahill (a header, of course), Coop, and lets throw a little Dax Mccarty in there.

GO RED BULLS!

NY Islanders set for move to Brooklyn

The New York Islanders are set to announce a move to join the Brookyln Nets in the Barclay's Center in Brooklyn, NY. The move could go down as early as 2015.

Click here for full ESPN story.

Friday's Awesome Video of the Week!

Neymar is sooo dirty! 

You get a yellow card if you even touch the kid!

Thanks to Leworthy for finding this!

US Men's National Team whoops Guatemala

MATCH RECAP

USA 3 - Guatemala 1

by Patrick Dunne

Clint Dempsey's 2 goals led the USMNT to a 3-1 win last night over Guatemala. The US was down 1-0 early, when Carlos Bocenegra scored off of a Dempsey header to level things up at 1-1. Eddie Johnson then made a beautiful pass in front of Gautemala's net to set up a quick strike for Dempsey's first goal of the match. The U.S. then exploited Guatemala's defense with a "give and go" to Michael Bradley which ended with a gorgeous lob over the goal keeper, which Dempsey touched in for his second goal of the match. The USMNT has made it to the final 6 teams in World Cup Qualifying. Check back later for match dates/times.

US Men's National Soccer Match Preview

by Ryan Leworthy

After a seriously unconvincing win against Antigua and Barbuda, the USMNT take on Guatemala back home in Kansas City. Now as a huge USMNT fan, I was borderline about to throw my controller at the TV on Friday night. Yes, given the pitch looked like my backyard after a rainstorm, and the field was super narrow, there is no excuse we shouldn't have won that game by at least 3 goals.

Tonight we face a way tougher opponent than A&B in Guatemala. Rumor is they are going to be playing 5 midfielders to clog up the middle of the pitch and make us play out wide and long balls. I do not like the long ball aspect. I haven't seen Carlos Bocanegra (respect though) complete a pass from 20 yards out in like 3 years. Playing out wide I can handle though. As long as we have the right playmakers out wide sending in crosses to the Dempsey and EJ show, that's a recipe for disaster for the other team.

My prediction tonight is a realistic 2-1 victory but would like to see a solid 5-0 haha! Goals by EJ again and cmon Dempsey I need you pal. I have your jersey on right now under my work shirt. My starting 11 is Cherundolo, Goodson, Cameron, and Bocanegra in the back four. Maurice Edu as a holding midfielder. Attacking Mids are Graham Zusi and Sasha Klejstan on the wings and Bradley as the field general in middle. Forwards are Eddie Johnson and my boy Dempsey.

Lets Go USMNT!!!

Ryan's Prediction: USA 2 - Guatemala 1

Actual Score: USA 3 - Guatemala 1

Giants vs 49ers Fan Brawl!!!

Niners fans were pissed! Even the ladies got involved!

Stay classy, San Francisco!

USA vs Guatemala 7pm ET 10/16 on ESPN2

Clint Dempsey, his bitchface and the US Men's National Soccer Team take on Guatemala in the World Cup Qualifiers.

Clint Dempsey is the f*cking man!

United States vs Guatemala

Live from Kansas City, Kan.

7:00pm ET 10/16 on ESPN2

Click here to see the highlights from this summer's USA/Guatemala match

U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!

Jets whoop Colts- Prepare for Pats

by Patrick Dunne
The New York Jets layed a whoopin' at Metlife Stadium on Sunday! That whoopin' went to rookie QB Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts.

Jet's RB Shonn Greene had one of the most productive games of his career, with 32 carries for 161 yards and 3 TDs, leading the Jets to the 35-9 win. Much of the credit goes to the offensive line. The big guys up front opened up perfect running lanes for Greene, as well as ideal pass protection for QB Mark Sanchez. With a successful running game early, Sanchez was able to exploit the Colt's struggling defensive secondary, going 11-18 for 82 yards, 2 touchdown passes and NO INTERCEPTIONS. The first touchdown came on a perfectly placed 5 yard pass to rookie WR Stephen Hill, who just returned from missing 3 games with a hamstring injury. The other was on a 5 yard slant pass to WR Jason Hill, who the Jets just recently picked up from free agency. Both new receivers looked good on Sunday, giving the Jets new hope after recently losing star WR Santonio Holmes for the season.

The Jet's defense looked stout, intercepting 2 passes, recovering 2 fumbles and sacking the QB 4 times. Rookie DE Quinton Coples made his presence felt, recording 4 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 1 tackle for loss. Veteran CB Antonio Cromartie has really become the leader of this defense since star CB Darrell Revis went down with an torn ACL. Cromartie recorded 4 tackles, 2 pass deflections, and 1 interception. He has 2 interceptions in the last 2 games, giving him 3 INTS and 7 pass deflections on the season. Keep it up, Cro!

The offense also looked really in tune, so lets hope we can get the running game going early next Sunday against the Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Pats are very beat-able this season and show many signs of weakness on the defensive side of the ball. Remember, the Jets have had success at Gillette before, knocking the Pats out of the 2011 Playoffs, beating them in the Divisional Round.

GO JETS!

Jets @ Patriots Sunday 10/21 at 4:25pm ET 

Yankee Captain Goes Down

New York Yankees have lost Captain Derek Jeter for the rest of the postseason with a broken left ankle. The injury occurred when Jeter attempted to field a ground ball and rolled his left ankle as he dove, then grimacing in pain as he flipped the ball to second base. This is a huge loss for the Yanks, as Jeter is one of their best hitters this season, batting .316 in the regular season and .333 in the postseason. The Yankees lost ALCS game 1 to the Detroit Tigers 6-4 in 12 innings, to add (literal) insult to injury. Let's see how the Bronx Bombers rally without their (future) Hall of Fame shortstop and captain.

ALCS Game 2 is Sunday 4:00pm at Yankee Stadium.

Friday's Awesome Video of the Week

We at GetWithTheProgram!! absolutely HATE Mike Francesa. This is more audio than video, but I absolutely love that people wait 45 minutes on hold to ask Mike Francesa questions like this...

It's not the size that counts, it's how you use it, right Mike?

ALDS: O's Force Game 5 with Bombers

The Orioles came up with the win in game 4, edging the Yankees 2-1 in extra innings, forcing a Game 5 in the ALDS. Joba Chamberlain was hit in his throwing elbow by a broken bat single in the 12th inning and would leave the game. Man, Joba can't even get a break... I think this may be a sign... "Joba isn't doing his job-a!" The series is now tied 2-2.

Tune in to TBS (Channel 39 Cablevision CT) for Game 5.

ALDS Game 5 - Orioles @ Yankees 5:07pm ET 10/12/12

(series tied 2-2)

Jets Week 6 Preview

by Patrick Dunne
"Gang Green" is coming off of a painful loss to the Houston Texans on Monday night. The Jets went into the game as big underdogs to the (then 4-0) Texans, as they came off of a 34-0 beatdown of a loss to the 49ers in week 4. Mark Sanchez threw for 230 yards, 1 TD and 2 INTs in the loss to the Texans, and actually showed some signs of life. The 2 interceptions he threw were both on tipped balls from the Texans defensive line, so Sanchez needs to get the ball over those guys if he wants to get the ball down field. The Jets young, inexperienced wide receivers did not help the situation, dropping a few big passes, including newly acquired Jason Hill, who dropped a perfect pass about 40 yards down field from Tim Tebow. The game would've been a lot different had Hill caught that ball. Well... That's football!

The Jets take on Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts this Sunday at Metlife Stadium. The Colts are coming off a huge comeback win against the Green Bay Packers last week and have showed some serious growth in the past 5 weeks. Their defense is still very questionable, but no one can deny that their offense shows serious playmaking ability. With star receivers Reggie Wayne and Donnie Avery, Luck has weapons around him that can really change the game on any given play. Look for the Jets defense to confuse Andrew Luck, showing him defensive schemes that he has never seen before. The Jets defense, led by corner Antonio Cromartie, had a solid outing last week against the Texans, and look to do much of the same against the Colts this Sunday. I think this game is going to be a close one, but the Jets will come out with the "W."

Remember this name: Jeremy Kerley (the future)

My prediction: Jets 21 - Colts 17

Giants Week 6 Preview

by Patrick Dunne
The Giants are coming off of a 41-27 win over the Browns last Sunday. The Brown's got off to a quick 14-0 start over the G-Men in the 1st quarter, and the game was closer than the score suggested. Giant's receiver Victor Cruz had a huge day with 3 touchdown strikes from quarterback Eli Manning, leading the Giants to the big win. The Giant's defense looked lack-luster on Sunday, giving up 27 points to the rookie-led Brown's offense. Might I say that the Giant's defense is "over-rated"?

The Giants take on the 49ers this Sunday. The Niners have proven themselves as one of the best teams in the league this season, and they look to get some payback against this Giant's team that edged by them in the NFC Championship game last season. The Gaint's defense will need to step it up against star runningback Frank Gore, who is the workhorse of the Niner's offense. They also have an emerging speed back in young 2nd stringer Kendall Hunter, who's pass catching ability could really mix up the Giant's defense.

Don't worry, I'm sure that Eli will throw for 500 yards, 4 TDs, and 3 INTs, and lead the Giant's to a last minute win.

My prediction: Giants 34 - 49ers 27

Pinch Me!

Raul Ibanez had an amazing pinch-hit home run in the bottom of the 9th inning to tie the game 2-2 against the Orioles. He was up again in the bottom of the 12th inning and hit another blast to right field for the walk-off win! It was the best pinch-hit performance that I have ever seen. Yankees win 3-2.

The Yankees can now clinch the ALDS by beating the Orioles at Yankee Stadium on Friday night at 5:07pm ET.

Howard, 23 others called upon for World Cup Qualifiers

United States Men's Nation Team head coach, Jurgen Klinsmann has called upon New Jersey's own Tim Howard and 23 others to report to training camp for the World Cup Qualifiers. The first match is against Anitgua & Barbuba on October 12th at 7pm Eastern in Antigua. The list of players (to name a few) include Howard (Everton), Clint Dempsey (Tottenham), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles), and Michael Bradley (Roma), son of ex-head coach Bob Bradley.

Click here for USSoccer.com story

Injury Update this week's NFL Games

100 % Out:
Danny Ammendola (STL) - Knee

Lance Moore (NO) - Hamstring

Peyton Hillis (KC) - Ankle

Dustin Keller (NYJ) - Hamstring 

Stephen Hill (NYJ) - Hamstring

Questionable:
Kenny Britt (TEN) - Ankle 
Did not early in the week and is not expected to play.

Rob Gronkowski (NE) - Hip
Played with the injury last week, so all signs say he will play.

Aaron Hernandez (NE) - Ankle
Practiced this week but is likely to miss Sunday's game.

Ben Tate (HOU) - Toe
Practiced fully this week and is expected to play Monday night.

Probable:
Pierre Garcon (WAS) - Foot
Looked in good shape last week, so he will be a go with this week.

Torrey Smith (BAL) - Ankle
He is playing.

Rashard Mendenhal (PIT) - Knee
Practiced fully and is ready to play.

Leworthy's Late Season Red Bull Take

Chicago Fire @ New York Red Bulls 3:30pm ET Sat. 10/6/12

by Ryan Leworthy

With playoff seeding implications beginning to take form, the Red Bulls need this win to clinch a playoff spot. Luckily, the Red Bulls are in good form right now as they come off an easy win against Toronto FC. They look to carry that momentum going into their next match against Chicago Fire today in Harrison, NJ. On a personal note, I'm really feeling this squad right now. Tim Cahill is running wild box to box, Kenny Cooper is scoring goals with ease, and Thierry Henry taking over almost as that #10 playmaker, setting up his teammates with ridiculous passes and scoring from corner kicks like it's nothing...  

I'm looking for this team to lock up second place in the East today, and if they don't, I'll prob have a few more beers than I need to afterwards. 

The cool thing though is that MLS is really coming up with this game getting an afternoon spin on NBC at 3:30pm ET. I'm just hoping they don't mainstream the shit out of it and ruin the game and turn it into a spectacle like the NFL or MLB. Soccer is straight up 90 minutes of non-stop action! Let me just watch without hearing for half the game how MLS is really coming up in America. I already know this!

My prediction (and not just because I'm a huge fan of Red Bulls) is 3-1 good guys. Cahill with a ridiculous header, Lindpere with one of his standard rebound goals, and Henry with another corner kick goal. haha 

GO RED BULLS!!!

Friday's Awesome Video of the Day

                                      Stjarnan F.C. is my new favorite club.

Yankees whoop Red Sox, clinch AL East

All smiles in The Bronx as the Yankees (95-67) have locked up the AL East Division Championship by beating the Boston Red Sox 14-2 at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday night. Robinson Cano went 4-4 batting with 2 homers and 6 RBIs to lead the Bronx Bombers into the playoffs with an exclamation point. Cano's big night overshadowed starting pitcher Hiroki Kuroda's quality outing, as Kuroda allowed 7 hits and only 2 runs in 7 full innings against the Red Sox.

GO YANKS!!!

Next game: American League Divisional Series 10/7/12 Yankees @ winner of Orioles/Rangers wild card game.

Jets sign WR Hill, same guy who called them "Over-Hyped"

by Patrick Dunne

The New York Jets have signed ex-Niner, Jag, and Bronco, wide receiver Jason Hill. Who the heck is Jason Hill? He was a 3rd round draft pick to the 49ers in 2007 out of Washington State University. More recently, Hill had 25 receptions for 367 yards and 3 touchdowns for the Jacksonville Jaguars before he was cut last November. You may remember him from calling the Jets "overhyped" before the Jag's week 2 match-up with the Jets last season. He also spoke of Jets star cornerback Darrell Revis, saying "Him personally, he's a good player. Pro Bowl player, I'm trying to make the Pro Bowl, too. This'll be a good game to put some notches on our belts too." Whatever the heck that means.. Revis ended up saying that he didn't "even know who that dude is." Hill didn't even play in the Jet's 2011 (32-2) rout of the Jags. I remember him saying that, and thinking "And he didn't even play in the game! What a jerk!"

WHELP, NOW HE'S A JET!

He was most recently cut by the Bronco's in August of 2012. Let's hope he keeps his mouth shut and actually produces some touchdowns. I still think we need Plaxico Burress or Terrell Owens, but that's just me.

New York Yankees: If they win it, they're in it!

Raul Ibanez had a huge night for the New York Yankees, including pinch hit two run homer in the bottom of the 9th inning to tie the game at 3. The game went into extra innings until the 12th, when Ibanez had a walk-off RBI single to bring in the forgotten Francisco Cervelli and give the Yanks the much needed win. If the Yankees beat the Red Sox tomorrow, they win the AL East.

Go Yanks!!

Yankees/Red Sox 7:05pm ET YES Network

Tune in to YES Network (Channel 73 - Cablevision CT) at 7:05pm ET for the Yankees versus the Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees are 1 game up on the Orioles in the race for 1st place in the AL East. 

Starting pitchers: David Phelps (NYY) - John Lester (BOS).

Yanks 1 game up in the AL East

                                 Let's go Bronx Bombers!!!

Yanks/Orioles tied for AL East Lead

The New York Yankees have been in a race for the AL East with the Baltimore Orioles for over a month now. With 3 games left in this MLB regular season, the Yankees and Orioles are tied for the AL East lead with a record of (92-67). The Yanks take on the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium for the last 3 games, as the Orioles travel down to St. Pete to take on the Tampa Bay Rays to finish off the season.

Let's hope the Yanks sweep the hilariously underachieving Red Sox!

Tune in tonight 10/1/12 Red Sox @ Yankees 7:05pm ET
Starting pitchers: C. Buchholz (BOS) and C. Sabathia (NYY)

My prediction: Yankees win the AL East division by 1 game.

Jets/Giants both 2-2 records

by Patrick Dunne
On Sunday the New York Jets lost in a blowout to the San Francisco 49ers and the New York Giants lost a close game to their division rivals the Philadelphia Eagles, leaving both teams with a 2-2 record. The Giants are 0-2 in divisional match ups, while the Jets are 2-0 in their division.

The Jets have had injuries to key players including TE Dustin Keller, WR Stephen Hill, CB Darrelle Revis, and WR Santonio Holmes. These injuries have left a lot of question marks as to how to the Jets will recover from not having their star players. The Jets also have a question mark in the QB department, with Mark Sanchez having another below average day with his decision making and well-below average on his passing numbers. Is it time to give Tim Tebow a try? I say, "It couldn't hurt."

The Giants also had some injuries to key players including WR Hakeem Nicks, CB Jayron Hosely, and OT David Diehl, as they went down to Philly trying to make an impression on the NFC East. The G-Men started off slow as Michael Vick picked apart the young Giant's secondary. Vick and RB Lesean McCoy had impressive performances, combining for 172 rushing yards. It came down to the wire as Giant's kicker Lawrence Tynes missed a 54 yard field goal wide left to seal the win for Vick and the Eagles.

Is it time to worry in New York? Do the Jets need to give Tebow a chance? Are the Giant's really the "Eli-te" team that everyone thought they were? Only time will tell, as next week the Giants take on the not-so-average Browns on Sunday at 1pm and the Jets battle the undefeated Houston Texans on Monday Night Football.

My girlfriend: Start Tebow, pick up Plaxico

My girlfriend says that the key to the Jets winning is to start Tim Tebow. "Sanchez just isn't getting it done and Tebow will" she said. When asked what the Jets should do, she replied "Mark Sanchez is just not working. If they don't change it, the same things will keep happening. Now that Santonio went down, they need to pick up Plaxico Burress, is he still available?"

My girlfriend is smart. Maybe she should be the head coach of the New York Jets.

Injury Updates for Sunday Football

Check back for updates before the 1:00pm games on Sunday 9/30.

Out
Darrius Heyward-Bey (OAK) - Concussion/Neck
Was listed as doubtful, but is officially listed as OUT.

Doubtful
Hakeem Nicks (NYG) - Foot/Knee
Most likely out.

Questionable
Reggie Bush (MIA) - Knee
He says he will play. Limited in practice on Friday and the knee is still a concern against a very good Cardinal defense.

Questionable
CJ Spiller (BUF) - Shoulder
Practiced later in the week on a limited basis and might play.

Questionable
Dwayne Bowe (KC) - Questionable
He is a go. Play him in fantasy football.

Questionable
Dustin Keller (NYJ) - Hamstring
Listed as Questionable, but I doubt he will play this week against the Niners solid defense.

Questionable
Matt Forte (CHI) - Ankle
Practiced this week so he will most likely play.

Questionable
Rob Gronkowski (NE) - Hip
The kid is a beast. He will play Sunday. Count on him having a big day too.

Probable
Jeremy Maclin (PHI) - Hip
He could potentially play. If he does, expect limited action.

Questionable
Mikel Leshoure (DET) - Groin
Limited in practice. If he does play, don't expect much.

Sit or Start? Fantasy Football Picks for Sunday

Who to sit?

RB Alfred Morris (WAS) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (prediction: 7 fan points)
Coming off of 13.8 fan points last week but look for the Bucs to shut down the running game. Tampa Bay has the #1 defense against the run this season.

QB Sam Bradford (STL) vs Seattle Seahawks (prediction: 12 fan points)
Bradford only had 5.48 fan points last week against the Bears defense. They are going up against a stout Seahawk's defense that took down Aaron Rodgers 8 times in the first half last week. Look for the Seattle defense to go after Sam Bradford.

RB Chris Johnson (TEN) @ Houston Texans (prediction: 5 fan points)
Johnson has been very disappointing this year with only 10.8 fan points on the season. This, combined with going up against one of the best rush defenses in the league, makes Johnson a weak starting option this week. If you have a Cedric Benson or a Ben Tate, go with them over Johnson.

QB Michael Vick (PHI) vs New York Giants (prediction: 10 fan points)
Only had 6.18 fan points last week against a tough Cardinals defense. Look for the Giant's defense to manipulate the weak offensive line of the Eagles and to put a lot of pressure on Vick. Remember, Vick has taken a lot of hits this season. It's only so long before he goes down with an injury.

Who to start?

QB Matt Cassel (KC) vs San Diego Chargers (prediction: 22 fan points)
Weak showing last week, but he is going up against a below-average Chargers defense that got smoked by the Falcons last week, giving up 27 points. Also, Jamal Charles and Dwayne Bowe seem to be on their games, so look for Cassel to get the ball in the hands of those play makers.

RB Benjarvus Green-Ellis (CIN) vs Jacksonville Jaguars (prediction: 15 points)
He has been consistently productive so far this season and is going up against one of the worst run defenses in the league. "The Law Firm" should have a big day as the Bengals look to develop the run to open up their passing game.

QB Christian Ponder (MIN) vs Detroit Lions (prediction: 23 fan points)
Ponder killed it last week with 29.22 fan points against one of the best defenses in the league, the 49ers. He is going up against a shaky Lions defense and if Adrian Peterson gets the running game going early, it could expose the Lions weak secondary.

RB Willis McGahee (DEN) vs Oakland Raiders (prediction: 13 fan points)
He is coming off of a rib injury, but looked good in practice on Wednesday and should have a big role in the game as the Broncos look to open up the passing game by establishing the run. Look for McGahee to catch the ball out of the backfield, as well as get his regular share of carries.

Red Bulls over Toronto FC 4-1

This goal by Kenny Cooper, beautifully assisted by Thierry Henry, lead to a 4-1 Red Bull win over Toronto FC.

Thursday Night Fantasy Football: Sit or Start?

Who to sit?

CLE QB Brandon Weeden (prediction: 10 fan pts)
Raven's defense is going to welcome Weeden to the NFL tonight. Looks for Baltimore to put a ton of pressure on the 28 year old rookie.

CLE RB Trent Richardson (prediction: 6 fan pts)
Like I said, the Raven's defense is no joke and they will probably welcome this rookie to the NFL much the same as Weeden.

Who to start?

BAL RB Ray Rice (prediction: 17 fan pts)
Ray is coming off of a big game against New England. Look for the Ravens to establish the run with their work-horse runningback.

BAL TE Dennis Pitta (prediction: 10 fan pts)
Pitta is Flacco's favorite target this season. Look for Torrey Smith to get the attention of the defense, leaving Pitta open in broken coverage.

Basically, the Ravens are going to lay a whoopin' on the Browns, in my expert opinion.

THE OLD REFS ARE BACK!

The NFL worked out a deal with its Referees. The refs are receiving a salary increase from an average of $149,000 per year in 2011 to $173,000 in 2013, going up to $205,000 by 2019. It is reported that they will be officiating tonight for the Thursday Night Football game: Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens! Kick Ass!!

                                  Click here for the full ESPN story.

Real NFL Refs could be back by Sunday!

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that the deal between the NFL and the Referees are very close and that the REAL NFL Referees could be back on the field as soon as Sunday! (Don't hold your breath though) Click here for the full ESPN story.

Enough is enough.. These refs must go!

These refs gotta go! To sign the petition for 1 million fans strong to boycott the NFL until the new refs are back, click here: 

Change.org Petition to end 

NFL Referee Lockout

or "like" this facebook page: 

1 Million Fans Strong against Crappy Refs

I PUT DA TEAM ON MY BACK!!

                                                       Oldie but goodie!

Sean Dunne's G-MEN Update

by Sean R. Dunne
The New York Football Giants are coming off a Thursday night beat down of the Carolina Panthers, who left feeling the Carolina blues after the Giants brought the "cryp'CAM'ite" to counter the Panther's "Man of Steel," Cam Newtown. 

The Giants went into week 3 without 5 of their starting players, including wide outs Dominick Hixon and Hakeem Nicks, runningback Ahmad Bradshaw, as well as offensive tackles David Diel and Will Beaty. The offense had to work with less proven weapons, including 6'6'' wide out Ramsees Barden and 2009 4th round pick out of N.C. State RB Andre Brown. Brown has proven he can make it in the NFL after all, displaying great vision and patience while rushing for 184 yards on 33 attempts, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Brown's size and speed are going to be a problem for defenses that will not only have to deal with an "eliTE" passer, but will have to stop the Giant's rock solid rushing game as well. The Giants offense has depth at key positions, including running back and wide receiver now that they have the addition of Barden, Brown and 2012 2nd round pick WR Ruben Randle. Randle is a gifted athlete who has yet to fully grasp the Giants offensive playbook and who looks to get more opportunities on the field, but with veteran wide outs like Nicks, Cruz, Hixon and now with the emerging Barden showing his skills, Randle may have to wait in line. Randle must find his opportunities whenever he can, whether it be on offense or returning punts on special teams.

This weekend The G-Men travel 77 miles down I-95 for a Sunday Night divisional game at the Philadelphia Eagles, who are coming off a poor showing against the Arizona Cardinals. The Cards were underdogs to the Eagles, possibly because an eagle would definitely kill a cardinal easily in the animal world. That was not the case in Philadelphia last week, when the Eagles struggled against a tough Cardinals defense. The Cardinal offense aired it out with former Eagle quarterback Kevin Kolb, who ended up having a great passing game, connecting with Larry Fitzgerald for two scores.

Remember the horrible 2010 season-ending loss to the Eagles in The Meadowlands when Desean Jackson had a punt return for a touchdown with time expiring? You know, the game when the Giants blew a 3 touchdown lead with 10 minutes left in the game. They then lost to Green Bay, who ended up taking the G-Men's wild card spot and going on to win the Superbowl. Well, you can bet your bottom dollar that the G-Men remember that game, and that they will try to inflict the same pain on Philly that they felt during that home loss in 2010.

The Giants look to ground the Eagles on Sunday Night Football with a better looking defense now that cornerbacks Price Amukumara and Jerome Hosley came back from injuries last week. Amukumara and Hosley both played well against Cam's Panthers and both seemed to be the missing pieces to the shaky Giants secondary that allowed over 600 yards passing yards in the first two games. Look for the young corners to help shut down the Eagles in Philly, where Eli Manning loves to have big games. The Giants are going to get personal this weekend as they try to leave the Eagles with a bitter taste in their mouths, one worse than seeing all of the G-Men's recent Super Bowl bling.

THESE NFL REPLACEMENT REFS ARE BEYOND HORRIBLE!!

                                       
                                       

In the words of my man, Keyshawn Johnson, "COME ON, MAN!!!"

Kaka's little bro, Digao, signs with Red Bulls

by Patrick Dunne
The New York Red Bulls signed 26 year old Brazilian international, Digao, brother of Real Madrid star, Kaka. The 6'4'' defender was signed after a trial with the Red Bulls and will be added to the roster as soon as his Visa and international transfer papers go through. Digao has done a fair share of traveling over his career, beginning with AC Milan and AC Rimini, and most recently playing for Portugese club FC Penafiel, for whom he appeared in 10 matches in 2010-2011. Let's see if he can spark some energy into the Red Bulls shaky defense as the club makes a run for MLS Cup.

Darrell Revis: Torn ACL, out for the season

by Patrick Dunne
Jets star cornerback Darrelle Revis left Sunday's game with a knee injury that left Jet's fans holding their breath.

Their worst fears were a reality when an MRI on Monday morning showed that Revis will require season-ending surgery on a torn ACL. The injury occured on a play when Revis was chasing down a defender and make an awkward cut without coming in contact with another player. Revis was down on the field for a few minutes before he limped off the field on his own strength.

This will surely be a huge loss for the Jets defense, who looked very shaky after Revis left the game. They take on some high power offenses in the next two weeks, so look for Antonio Cromartie to step it up and take the leadership role.

Jets edge Dolphins in OT

by Patrick Dunne
Santonio Holmes and Mark Sanchez looked like they have worked on their relationship a bit since last season's bitter loss to their rival Miami Dolphins. In that game, Holmes was benched after a heated in-huddle argument with Sanchez that resulted in Holmes being benched the rest of the game, ending the Jet's season on a very bad note.

Sunday's game started off on a bad note as well, when Mark Sanchez threw an interception on the first drive of the game. Dolphin's rookie quarterback, Ryan Tannehill, led them to a 10-3 halftime lead over the Jets, but was then intercepted by Jets safety LaRon Landry for a touchdown in the first drive of the second half. New York went up 20-17 after a Nick Folk field goal and a touchdown strike from Sanchez to second year receiver Jeremy Kerley late in the fourth quarter. Dolphin's kicker Dan Carpenter kicked a 41-yard field goal to tie the game at 20 with just seconds remaining in regulation.

The Jets won the overtime coin toss with a clutch "heads" call from Tim Tebow, who also converted an important fourth down fake-punt in the first half.  Like most overtimes, this one came down to the kickers. Dan Carpenter missed a 48-yarder, giving the Jets the ball with 8 minutes left in OT. After a 38-yard reception by Santonio Holmes, the Jets easily set themselves up for Nick Folk to kick the 33-yard field goal to win the game.

The Jets had injuries to key players, including veteran cornerback Darrell Revis and rookie wide out Stephen Hill. The Jets defense looked close-to-average without the presence of "Revis Island," so let's hope his injury isn't a bad one.

Listen, this game wasn't pretty, but it was a much needed "W" for the Jets. They have a tough road ahead of them as they take on the 49ers and Texans at Metlife Stadium the next two weeks.

This is Sports Center: John Clayton Blooper Reel

You are the man John Clayton!

Henry's 2 goals lead to Red Bulls 3 - 1 victory.

That corner kick goal was one on the nastiest MLS goals I have ever seen.

Key Injuries for Sunday's Games

OUT:

Fred Jackson (BUF): KNEE

Dustin Keller (NYJ): HAMSTRING

QUESTIONABLE:

Ryan Mathews (SD): CLAVICLE - Game time decision (most likely out)

Steve Smith (CAR): KNEE - Game time decision (most likely out)

Anotonio Gates (SD): RIBS - Game time decision (he is a go)

Pierre Garcon (WAS): FOOT - Game time decision (100% out)

PROBABLE:

Arian Foster (HOU): ILLNESS - He will start.

Calvin Johnson (DET): FOOT - He will start.

Marshawn Lynch (SEA): BACK - He will start.

Demarco Murray (DAL): WRIST - He will start.

Sit or Start? Fantasy Football Picks for Sunday

Who to start:

Philip Rivers (SD) vs Tennessee Titans
He is coming off of a (24-33) 231yd, 1 TD performance and should improve this week against a questionable Titans secondary.

Darren McFadden (OAK) @ Miami Dolphins
He had over 100yds of offense last week and Miami's secondary are no slouches, so look for the Raiders to ground and pound with McFadden.

Doug Martin (TB) @ New York Giants
Demarco Murray ran all over the Giants defense last week, so look for the Bucs to run the ball a good amount with Doug Martin. He had 95yds rushing and 23 receiving last week and is always a threat to break out for a big gain.

Darren Sproles (NO) @ Carolina Panthers
He had 35yds receiving and 1 TD last week. His limited role in the New Orleans offense still gets him a good amount of touches and Sproles is always a big play threat.

Brandon Lafell (CAR) vs New Orleans Saints
He had 65yds receiving and 1 TD last week and seems to be one of Cam Netwon's favorite receivers. Also, Steve Smith is listed as "Questionable" with a knee injury so Lafell should get the ball thrown his way a good amount.

Lance Moore (NO) @ Carolina Panthers
He had 6 catches for 120yds and 1 TD last week and looks like Drew Brees' favorite target. Look for the Saints to step up their game after coming off a disappointing loss to the Redskins last week.

Who to sit:

Matthew Stafford (DET) @ San Francisco
Stafford threw for 355yds, 1 TD and 3 INTs in last weeks game and 49ers defense are one of the best in the league. I can't see him having more than 15 fantasy points this week.

Michael Vick (PHI) vs Baltimore Ravens
Vick threw 3 INTs last week and is going against a very confident Ravens defense. If Vick doesn't get the pass protection that he needs, he is going to be on the ground a lot.

Kevin Smith (DET) @ San Francisco 49ers
He had 1 rushing and 1 receiving TD on 91 total yards last week against a crappy Rams defense... Again, the 49ers defense aint nothin' to f*** with, so bench him.

A.J. Green (CIN) @ Cleveland Browns
Green had 5 catches for 70yds last week but the Browns defense had 4 INTs last week and will have him double covered all day.

Torrey Smith (BAL) @ Philadelphia Eagles
He had 2 catches for 57 yds and 1 carry for 13 yds. Look for Bolden and Flaco's new favorite target, Dennis Pitta to get more balls thrown their way.


Good luck, everybody! And check back for weekly fantasy football podcasts!

Prank Callers give Francesa sh*t for falling asleep on the air!

Prank calls are the best! Especially when you have to wait 30 minutes just to get through.

Friday's Awesome Video of the Week!

Sick Ronaldinho bicycle kick! Ok, it was in training and the defender just stood there doing nothing, but still DISGUSTING none the less!

Farewell Coach Jim Calhoun

by Patrick Dunne
Jim Calhoun was the head basketball coach for the UConn Huskies for the past 26 years. The 70 year old coach has 3 National Championships, 7 Big East Championships, has reached 4 Final Fours and is 3rd among active coaches with a record of (873-380). Coach Calhoun has molded top quality NBA players over the years, such as: Cliff Robinson, Donyell Marshall, Ray Allen, Rip Hamilton, and Ben Gordon, to name a few.

The UConn Huskies have had their share of trials and tribulations, with coach Calhoun cited by the NCAA in February 2011 for failing to create an atmosphere of compliance within his program and he was suspended for 3 Big East games in the 2011-2012 season. The NCAA also handed down scholarship reductions for 3 academic years, recruiting restrictions, permanent disassociation of a booster and 3 years probation. Also, due to the past academic performances of Calhoun's players, UConn is not eligible for the 2013 NCAA Tournament.

Jim Calhoun was inducted into The Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005 and The College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. There is no doubt that he is one of the best to ever coach the game of college basketball. His recent NCAA title in the 2011 season made Calhoun the oldest coach to win a NCAA Nation Championship.

Good luck out there, Coach. You will be missed.

WFAN's Mike Francesa falls asleep during his show!

This is just freakin' priceless. P.S. I cannot stand Mike Francesa.

Time to check out some sweet NY Sports Gear!

Awesome New York Sports gear from Google Affiliate Ads.

  

Barclay's Center: The Brooklyn Nets New Digs

I must say, the Brooklyn Nets new court looks sick! It's no Madison Square Garden, though. Too bad the Nets suck!

For more photos click HERE.

Never Forget 9/11/01

The New York City skyline will be changed forever, but the strength of the people that live here will forever be strong. Never forget 9/11/01 and the defenseless people that lost their lives that day. Rest in peace.

Guido Jets fan punches female Bills fan!

                        Watch the guy in the black tank top around the 35 second mark.

Young Receivers Shine: Jets rout the Bills

Stephen Hill 17 yard touchdown reception.

by Patrick Dunne
Ladies and gentleman, rookie star receiver, Stephen Hill.

Mr. Hill had 5 receptions for 89 yards (17.8 avg) and 2 touchdowns in his New York Jets NFL debut. His longest reception, a 33 yard pass from Mark Sanchez in the 2nd quarter, put the Jets up to an early (14-0) lead. Hill also had a touchdown on a 17 yard sideline reception from Sanchez that he turned up field for a diving score.

Mark Sanchez had an impressive day, going (19-27) 266 yards passing with 3 touchdowns and 1 interception. Jets slot receiver Jeremy Kerley was on fire early with a leaping catch for a touchdown in the 1st quarter, followed by a 68 yard punt return for a score in the 2nd. Wide receiver Santonio Holmes had 4 catches for 68 yds, also playing an important role in the Jets new passing offense. The Jets offensive line played some of the best football I have ever seen, creating an ideal passing pocket for Mark Sanchez to pick apart the Bills unsteady defense. Let's hope they keep up the good work so that Sanchez can make some more big passes to this talented young Jets receivers.

The Jets defense looked in top form for most of the game, with interceptions by Darrelle Revis, Kyle Wilson and Antonio Cromartie. Cromartie picked off Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick for a 40 yard interception return for a touchdown in the 3rd quarter. New acquisition, Laron Landry, made his presence felt in this game with 7 tackles and 1 forced fumble, stripping Bills runningback CJ Spiller after a 1st down run. The Jets defense did look a bit out of shape later in the game, letting up 21 points to the Bills in the 2nd half. Look for captain Darrell Revis to get his defense motivated for next week's game verus the Steelers at Pittsburgh.

Ump blows call, Orioles tied with Yanks for AL East lead

Mark Teixeira reinjured his left calf diving into first base while avoiding a double-play in the bottom of the 9th inning.. Or so we thought. Umpire Jerry Meals called him out at first on a play that everyone and their mother knew was safe. "Sometimes you wonder if the umpires are just trying to get out of there," said a frustrated Teixeiria, "They don't want you to make a comeback. They want to go home because those were terrible calls. It is what is is. We are out there fighting. I'm out there playing on one leg. I wish it had gone my way." "I'm probably going to get fined," Tex later told reporters. "But I don't care, really. I'm out there fighting. We are out there fighting. When you are battling like we are battling and they can't get get a call right, that pissed you off, it really does." 

Minutes later Yankees skipper Joe Girardi got into a yelling match with a reporter in the clubhouse before being calmed by Yankees security. Tempers were definitely flaring in Baltimore on Saturday night, and you can bet your tail that today's game at Camden Yard will be a heated one.

Tim Tebow: Excited to beat the Bills!

New York Jets vs Buffalo Bills @ Metlife Stadium, Sunday 9/9 @ 1:05pm ET

Colonel Mustard's Rangers Preview

by Colonel Mustard
Last year was another step in the right direction for the Rangers. The regular season saw them win both the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference titles and a #1 playoff seed. After two back and forth 7-game series wins against the Ottawa Senators and the Washington Capitals, the Broadway Blueshirts fell just short of a trip to the finals in a thriller with hated rival New Jersey Devils. While the disappointing ending wasn't what the team or the fans hoped for, there is plenty of reason for optimism this year.


1.) Vezina Hank - After being overlooked for several years, Henrik Lundqvist finally got the recognition he deserved when he took home the hardware at the NHL awards in Las Vegas. Henrik has been arguably the most consistent performer for the Rangers in recent years, and when he is locked in, one of the best in the league.

2.) Rick's a Ranger - 5-time All-Star and "Rocket" Richard trophy winning winger Rick Nash arrives in the Big Apple in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets. For those unfamiliar with Rick's game (he did play in Columbus after all), he is a big body with soft hands and tremendous speed for his size. A key performer for Canada in their gold-medal winning campaign at the Vancouver Olympics, Rick should pair nicely with last year's big signing, playmaker Brad Richards.

3.) Pressure is off Gabby - The arrival of Nash will almost certainly allow mercurial forward Marian Gaborik to move to the second line. After posting a career high in games played and a return to the 75+ point plateau, a confident Gaborik could be a potential 50 goal scorer without the pressure that comes with being the #1 option. Always more of a #1b guy, speedy Gaborik will be a second line menace.