By DT
Well, the Phillies offense are a bunch of ghosts right now...
The Giants showed surprising confidence and took Game 1 4-3 on Saturday night in Philly. When you face a great pitcher like Tim Lincecum, you CAN NOT leave RISP because you might only get 1 or 2 chances per game. Ryan Howard needs to get it together, ditto for Jimmy Rollins. The starting 8 can't expect the starters to allow less than 3 runs every game. Halladay wasn't great tonight but still only allowed 4 runs.
The Halladay/Lincecum duel was a good one, and Lincecum came out on top. It would have been better for both guys if the home plate umpire wasn't brutal. The strike zone was way to small and he was not calling low strikes all night which is really difficult on a pitcher.
Cody Ross was a thorn in Roy Halladay's side with two solo-homers to left field. Raul Ibanez didn't help with a rough mis-play in left field on a Pat Burrell deep fly ball. His drop gave the Giants a 3-1 lead, then a 4-1 lead when that player scored on a single right afterward. It was the difference tonight.
Bottom line is the Phillies offense needs to wake the hell up and score some runs... Chooch can't do it alone. Tonight again the Phillies only got runs on homers. All season the O has been an enigma. It's time now to put up or shut up. As I said in the preview, the bats will be the difference in this series. Game 1 was not a good start for the Phillies on that front and now they enter a must-win game tomorrow night against lefty Jonathan Sanchez who they really struggled against this season. Big game tomorrow... Big game.
Game 2 is Sunday night on Fox, first pitch at 8:19pm. Pitching match-up is Roy Oswalt vs Jonathan Sanchez.
A site dedicated to the major sports teams here in Philadelphia. We'll also mention the 76ers from time to time.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Phillies vs Giants NLCS Preview
By DT
Tonight the Phillies get under way in their 3rd straight NLCS in as many years...
The Giants and Phillies begin Game 1 of the NLCS tonight at 7:57pm first pitch. The pitching match-up is one for the ages... Roy Halladay who will be this year's CY Young award winner will take on Tim Lincecum, last year's CY Young award winner. It has the potentional to be one of the best modern day pitching match-ups in post-season history. Don't blink because the game may only be 2 hours the way these two guys work.
The Giants pitching will be the toughest the Phillies face in the last 4 straight playoff appearances. However the Giants offense is probably the worst line-up they will face over the last 4 straight playoff appearances. Both teams match-up pretty well is ever area besides the bats. The Phillies have a slight edge in starting pitching; very slight... The Phillies defense has a solid edge over the Giants and I would give the Giants a slight edge in the bullpen. The Phillies bats have an enormous advantage as long as the "real" Phillies offense shows up. The only 2 dangerous Giant hitters are former Phillie Pat Burrell and young up-and-coming catching star Buster Posey.
The bats are wear I feel this series will be decided. If the Phillies can hit Lincecum and Cain like they have in the past they could run away with the series. The lefty Sanchez is the guy the Phillies always struggle with but remember this is the playoffs not the regular season, so who knows. To help counter Sanchez the Phils could use a big series from their right-handed batters Werth, Polanco and Ruiz. If the Phillies can put up some runs, especially early, the Giants may not even be in this series. Obviously if the Phillies offense plays like they did vs the Reds, this series could go the distance.
The Phillies have the experience in these moments and will rely on that to win this series. The Giants haven't been down this road before and may have quite a shock on what playoff electricity is about with Game 1 and 2 in Philly. The Giants are facing a stacked Phillies team that is experienced and relentless. The Giants had a joke of test in the NLDS against the Braves and needed some historical Braves errors and blunders to advance to this series. It's about to get very real for the Giants and they will find out what it's like to go up against a real-deal power house and if they have the testicular fortitude to man-up.
Like Charlie Manuel said earlier this week quoting wrestling legend Ric Flair... " To be the man, you got to beat the man!!!"
DT's NLCS Pick: It will not be a sweep because the Giants pitching is to good, but they just don't have the relentless firepower to match the Phillies in any area. As I said earlier the Phillies have a solid edge in defense and an a enormous one with the bats. Plus their 1-2-3 H2O starting pitching punch even the Giants can't match. I think this goes 6 games because I don't think the Phillies will beat Lincecum and Sanchez twice each. I have a feeling that the Phillies will win Games 1,3,5 and 6 taking the NLCS series and becoming the first team since the "Big Red Machine" to go to 3 straight World Series! Get ready for the rematch we all want with the evil empire in black pin-stripes..
Here are the probable pitching match-ups for the first 4 games:
Game 1: Roy Halladay vs Tim Lincecum
Game 2: Roy Oswalt vs Jonathan Sanchez
Game 3: Cole Hamels vs Matt Cain
Game 4: Joe Blanton vs Madison Bumgarner (could be Halladay and/or Lincecum depending on the where the series is at)
Tonight the Phillies get under way in their 3rd straight NLCS in as many years...
The Giants and Phillies begin Game 1 of the NLCS tonight at 7:57pm first pitch. The pitching match-up is one for the ages... Roy Halladay who will be this year's CY Young award winner will take on Tim Lincecum, last year's CY Young award winner. It has the potentional to be one of the best modern day pitching match-ups in post-season history. Don't blink because the game may only be 2 hours the way these two guys work.
The Giants pitching will be the toughest the Phillies face in the last 4 straight playoff appearances. However the Giants offense is probably the worst line-up they will face over the last 4 straight playoff appearances. Both teams match-up pretty well is ever area besides the bats. The Phillies have a slight edge in starting pitching; very slight... The Phillies defense has a solid edge over the Giants and I would give the Giants a slight edge in the bullpen. The Phillies bats have an enormous advantage as long as the "real" Phillies offense shows up. The only 2 dangerous Giant hitters are former Phillie Pat Burrell and young up-and-coming catching star Buster Posey.
The bats are wear I feel this series will be decided. If the Phillies can hit Lincecum and Cain like they have in the past they could run away with the series. The lefty Sanchez is the guy the Phillies always struggle with but remember this is the playoffs not the regular season, so who knows. To help counter Sanchez the Phils could use a big series from their right-handed batters Werth, Polanco and Ruiz. If the Phillies can put up some runs, especially early, the Giants may not even be in this series. Obviously if the Phillies offense plays like they did vs the Reds, this series could go the distance.
The Phillies have the experience in these moments and will rely on that to win this series. The Giants haven't been down this road before and may have quite a shock on what playoff electricity is about with Game 1 and 2 in Philly. The Giants are facing a stacked Phillies team that is experienced and relentless. The Giants had a joke of test in the NLDS against the Braves and needed some historical Braves errors and blunders to advance to this series. It's about to get very real for the Giants and they will find out what it's like to go up against a real-deal power house and if they have the testicular fortitude to man-up.
Like Charlie Manuel said earlier this week quoting wrestling legend Ric Flair... " To be the man, you got to beat the man!!!"
DT's NLCS Pick: It will not be a sweep because the Giants pitching is to good, but they just don't have the relentless firepower to match the Phillies in any area. As I said earlier the Phillies have a solid edge in defense and an a enormous one with the bats. Plus their 1-2-3 H2O starting pitching punch even the Giants can't match. I think this goes 6 games because I don't think the Phillies will beat Lincecum and Sanchez twice each. I have a feeling that the Phillies will win Games 1,3,5 and 6 taking the NLCS series and becoming the first team since the "Big Red Machine" to go to 3 straight World Series! Get ready for the rematch we all want with the evil empire in black pin-stripes..
Phillies in 6
Here are the probable pitching match-ups for the first 4 games:
Game 1: Roy Halladay vs Tim Lincecum
Game 2: Roy Oswalt vs Jonathan Sanchez
Game 3: Cole Hamels vs Matt Cain
Game 4: Joe Blanton vs Madison Bumgarner (could be Halladay and/or Lincecum depending on the where the series is at)
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Phillies Alert: Manuel Reveals Rotation
By DT
Charlie Manuel just said on 610WIP that he has decided to go with a 4-man rotation. The order will be Halladay, Oswalt, Hamels and Blanton.
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Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Eagles News Alert: Mike Bell Traded
By DT
The Eagles have traded RB Mike Bell to the Browns for RB Jerome Harrison.
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Flyers Game Saturday Time Change
By DT
Via 610Wip, the Flyers/Pens game Saturday night has been moved to 6pm due to Game 1 of the NLCS which starts at 8 in Philly.
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Eagles News Alert: Important Injury Updates
By DT
Here is a run down of Eagles injuries and fallout:
* Bunkley will not have surgery after all and could even play Sunday but it's a stretch.
* Kevin Kolb is taking all the reps in practice. That certainly indicates Vick will not play this Sunday. He will probably be the emergency backup. Reid said Vick is lifting again but is still sore and has not thrown yet...
* This one hurts... Jason Peters is out this Sunday and probably till at least after the bye. He has a meniscus tear and will have surgery to fix that and clean-out the knee. The Eagles are going with a week-to-week prognosis but like I said, it will be several weeks of missed time. After the bye at earliest...
* In light of the Peters injury, King Dunlap is your starting LT. Ugh...
* Riley Cooper and Asante Samuel have both been cleared to practice and should play Sunday.
* Another NFC team is hurting today... The Packers just found out their stud TE Jermichael Finley is out 8-10 weeks, LB Clay Matthews may miss some time and Aaron Rodgers may not play Sunday due to a concussion. Saints are hurting, Viks are hurting, Cowgirls stink. NFC is wide-open...
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Here is a run down of Eagles injuries and fallout:
* Bunkley will not have surgery after all and could even play Sunday but it's a stretch.
* Kevin Kolb is taking all the reps in practice. That certainly indicates Vick will not play this Sunday. He will probably be the emergency backup. Reid said Vick is lifting again but is still sore and has not thrown yet...
* This one hurts... Jason Peters is out this Sunday and probably till at least after the bye. He has a meniscus tear and will have surgery to fix that and clean-out the knee. The Eagles are going with a week-to-week prognosis but like I said, it will be several weeks of missed time. After the bye at earliest...
* In light of the Peters injury, King Dunlap is your starting LT. Ugh...
* Riley Cooper and Asante Samuel have both been cleared to practice and should play Sunday.
* Another NFC team is hurting today... The Packers just found out their stud TE Jermichael Finley is out 8-10 weeks, LB Clay Matthews may miss some time and Aaron Rodgers may not play Sunday due to a concussion. Saints are hurting, Viks are hurting, Cowgirls stink. NFC is wide-open...
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Tuesday, October 12, 2010
NLCS Games Times Announced
By DT
Info via MLB site and Phillies beat guy Matt Gelb.
The game times for the NLCS between the Phillies and Giants have been scheduled. All the games are on Fox...
Game 1: Saturday October 16th, 7:30pm (est) airtime, first pitch 7:57pm.
Game 2: Sunday October 17th, 8pm (est) airtime, first pitch 8:19pm.
Game 3: Tuesday October 19th, 4pm (est) airtime, first pitch 4:19pm.
Game 4: Wednesday October 20th, 7:30pm (est) airtime, 7:57pm first pitch.
Game 5*: Thursday October 21st, 7:30pm (est) airtime, 7:57pm first pitch.
Game 6*: Saturday October 23rd, 3:30pm (est) airtime, 3:57pm first pitch. (could move to 7:57pm first pitch if ALCS is over)
Game 7*: Sunday October 24th, 7:30pm est airtime, 7:57pm first pitch.
* if necessary
Info via MLB site and Phillies beat guy Matt Gelb.
The game times for the NLCS between the Phillies and Giants have been scheduled. All the games are on Fox...
Game 1: Saturday October 16th, 7:30pm (est) airtime, first pitch 7:57pm.
Game 2: Sunday October 17th, 8pm (est) airtime, first pitch 8:19pm.
Game 3: Tuesday October 19th, 4pm (est) airtime, first pitch 4:19pm.
Game 4: Wednesday October 20th, 7:30pm (est) airtime, 7:57pm first pitch.
Game 5*: Thursday October 21st, 7:30pm (est) airtime, 7:57pm first pitch.
Game 6*: Saturday October 23rd, 3:30pm (est) airtime, 3:57pm first pitch. (could move to 7:57pm first pitch if ALCS is over)
Game 7*: Sunday October 24th, 7:30pm est airtime, 7:57pm first pitch.
* if necessary
Monday, October 11, 2010
Giants Defeat Braves, Will Face Phillies in NLCS
By DT
The Giants won Game 4 in Atlanta 3-2 and win their NLDS series...
The Phillies and Giants will meet in the NLCS starting Saturday night in Philly. Pitching match-up will most likely be Roy Halladay vs Tim Lincecum.
Stay tuned for the Phils/Giants NLCS preview later in the week.
The Giants won Game 4 in Atlanta 3-2 and win their NLDS series...
The Phillies and Giants will meet in the NLCS starting Saturday night in Philly. Pitching match-up will most likely be Roy Halladay vs Tim Lincecum.
Stay tuned for the Phils/Giants NLCS preview later in the week.
Flyers Win Home Opener 4-2
By DT
The Flyers won their home opener tonight 4-2 over the Av's. Before the game, the Flyers unveiled their 2010 Eastern Conference Champion banner which was cool. Not as cool as a Stanley Cup banner...
As for the game, the Flyers came out rolling and took a 2-0 lead into the first intermission. Giroux (SH) and Carter both scored on breakaways with the same move. It was impressive!
The Av's took the momentum back in the 2nd and the beginning of the 3rd period knotting the game at 2. The Flyers finally got some momentum back and quickly cashed in when Jeff Carter scored his second goal of the night that bounced off several players before finding the twine. Darrol Powe added a empty netter sealing the Flyers second victory of the season.
The Flyers are 2-0-1 in the young season...
The Flyers won their home opener tonight 4-2 over the Av's. Before the game, the Flyers unveiled their 2010 Eastern Conference Champion banner which was cool. Not as cool as a Stanley Cup banner...
As for the game, the Flyers came out rolling and took a 2-0 lead into the first intermission. Giroux (SH) and Carter both scored on breakaways with the same move. It was impressive!
The Av's took the momentum back in the 2nd and the beginning of the 3rd period knotting the game at 2. The Flyers finally got some momentum back and quickly cashed in when Jeff Carter scored his second goal of the night that bounced off several players before finding the twine. Darrol Powe added a empty netter sealing the Flyers second victory of the season.
The Flyers are 2-0-1 in the young season...
Bunkley Injury Update
By DT
It's a torn ligament in the elbow and possible nerve damage. Tomorrow he will be checked out again to verify the diagnosis. If the injury diagnosis is correct, he will need surgery and it will definitely end his season.
Not good news at all for the Eagles defense... Antonio Dixon will probably be the new starter unless the Eagles go out and get someone.
It's a torn ligament in the elbow and possible nerve damage. Tomorrow he will be checked out again to verify the diagnosis. If the injury diagnosis is correct, he will need surgery and it will definitely end his season.
Not good news at all for the Eagles defense... Antonio Dixon will probably be the new starter unless the Eagles go out and get someone.
Eagles News Alert: Bunkley Likely Out For The Season
By DT
New has just broke that Eagles DT Brodrick Bunkley is likely done for the season due to the elbow injury he sustained in last night's 24-21 victory. There is a apparently nerve damage as well which makes it even worse.
Stay tuned for details as they emerge...
New has just broke that Eagles DT Brodrick Bunkley is likely done for the season due to the elbow injury he sustained in last night's 24-21 victory. There is a apparently nerve damage as well which makes it even worse.
Stay tuned for details as they emerge...
Eagles vs 49ers Recap & Afterthought Nuggets
By DT
Yesterday in my Eagles preview I said I had a terrible feeling about this game and that the only way I felt the Eagles would win was if Kevin Kolb played a great game. Well he did and they did... I know the defense had five turnovers but they still gave up 24 freaking points.
Either way the Eagles held on and got a much-needed 27-24 victory against the 49ers under the bright lights of Sunday Night Football. Kevin Kolb turned in a stellar performance going 21-31 for 253yards and 1 TD. He did have 1 costly fumble but that was his only blemish of the evening. One of the "Things To Watch" I mentioned in the preview yesterday was to see if Kolb would keep his eyes down field and not watch the rush. He finally did that and was throwing strikes down field, across the middle, etc and didn't constantly check down... I will even give him extra credit because he did so without starting LT Jason Peters protecting his blind side for most of the game. Michael Vick should and will be the starter when he is healthy because he's better suited to survive with this year's team. At least we can breath a little easier that Kolb may not be a total bust...
LeSean McCoy also deserves some props for how well he played with a broken rib (sans that awful 1st down miss late in the game that almost cost the Eagles the game). McCoy was dynamic with 18 carries, 92 yards and 1 rushing TD. He also chipped in with 5 catches for 46 yards. Brent Celek also had a nice game with a TD catch and helping out blocking.
The Eagles defense was very jekyll and hyde all night long. They forced 5 turnovers but gave up 24 points. The secondary and linebackers played well but noticeably missed Asante Samuel. The D in general did a great job stopping the run but got smoked in the passing game - 49ers WR Michael Crabtree had 9 catches, Vernon Davis had 5 with each player hauling in a TD. The D-line got great pressure but did so without Bunkley for almost the entire game and without Trent Cole for almost a full quarter. Weird dynamics...
I need to give the Eagles a lot of credit here. The odds were stacked up against them before and through the entire game; A dangerous 0-4 team on the road, miserable kick coverage, injuries, etc and they found a way to get an ugly win. I would also like to personally thank Alex Smith for the biggest assist of all in the Eagles victory...
LPS Player of the Game: Kevin Kolb (Congrats, you win a mention on this website!!) Every week I give this to an Eagle. If I didn't do that, Alex Smith would get the game ball for handing the Eagles the victory. But I'm going with Kolb for his stellar performance with his back against the wall. It was put up or shut up time for Kolb. He needed a solid effort to quell some of the mega-bust questions.
* I feel a lot better about Kolb then I did the last few weeks. Vick is still better suited right now for the Eagles but Kolb at least showed something last night.
* Kolb had a Vick-like escape from pressure and threw across his body on the Brent Celek TD in the 1st Q.
* Nice forced fumble by Brandon Graham late in the 4th Q that Quintin Mikell took to the house.
* Kudos to Nate Allen who saved the game with a pass deflection late in the 4th quarter on and all out blitz. If he doesn't defend that ball, Gore goes to the house and we are having a far different conversation about the Eagles this morning.
* LeSean McCoy is one tough SOB!! He appears to be a super-star in the making... Really talented player. Zach from LPS has always said McCoy has that Westbrook-like shake and bake and ability to beat the opponent to the spot.
* Nice pick by rookie Trevard Lindley to ice the game.
* Moise Fokou made the most of his extra time at OLB. Nice forced fumble on Gore early...
* The Eagles secondary missed the cover skills of Asante Samuel.
* Antonio Dixon played well in place of Bunkley.
* Alex Smith stinks and is a monumental first overall draft pick bust.
* How is the Eagles kick coverage so piss-poor. Bobby April?? The special teams have nose-dived ever since Ike Reese was sent packing.
* Owen Schmitt has been a nice pick up after losing pro-bowl FB Leonard Weaver.
* DeSean Jackson's increasing tendency to get banged up is growing more concerning.
* It's hard to except that Brian Westbrook is just done... What a career.
* Wonder if the 49ers are kicking themselves in the ass for not going after McNabb now?? They have some super-talented players i.e. Crabtree, Davis and Gore.
* Speaking of McNabb, was that a late 4th Q comeback over the Packers yesterday?? Who knew... Can't believe the DeadSkins are 3-2 and beat the Packers yesterday.
* The Cowgirls cured my pain of the Skins and Giants winning by getting beat at home securing a 1-3 record at the bottom of the NFC East. Romo is no moment player folks...
* I'm setting the over/under at 5 for the number of times the Monday Night broadcast will talk about Brett Favre's ding-dang pic...
Yesterday in my Eagles preview I said I had a terrible feeling about this game and that the only way I felt the Eagles would win was if Kevin Kolb played a great game. Well he did and they did... I know the defense had five turnovers but they still gave up 24 freaking points.
Either way the Eagles held on and got a much-needed 27-24 victory against the 49ers under the bright lights of Sunday Night Football. Kevin Kolb turned in a stellar performance going 21-31 for 253yards and 1 TD. He did have 1 costly fumble but that was his only blemish of the evening. One of the "Things To Watch" I mentioned in the preview yesterday was to see if Kolb would keep his eyes down field and not watch the rush. He finally did that and was throwing strikes down field, across the middle, etc and didn't constantly check down... I will even give him extra credit because he did so without starting LT Jason Peters protecting his blind side for most of the game. Michael Vick should and will be the starter when he is healthy because he's better suited to survive with this year's team. At least we can breath a little easier that Kolb may not be a total bust...
LeSean McCoy also deserves some props for how well he played with a broken rib (sans that awful 1st down miss late in the game that almost cost the Eagles the game). McCoy was dynamic with 18 carries, 92 yards and 1 rushing TD. He also chipped in with 5 catches for 46 yards. Brent Celek also had a nice game with a TD catch and helping out blocking.
The Eagles defense was very jekyll and hyde all night long. They forced 5 turnovers but gave up 24 points. The secondary and linebackers played well but noticeably missed Asante Samuel. The D in general did a great job stopping the run but got smoked in the passing game - 49ers WR Michael Crabtree had 9 catches, Vernon Davis had 5 with each player hauling in a TD. The D-line got great pressure but did so without Bunkley for almost the entire game and without Trent Cole for almost a full quarter. Weird dynamics...
I need to give the Eagles a lot of credit here. The odds were stacked up against them before and through the entire game; A dangerous 0-4 team on the road, miserable kick coverage, injuries, etc and they found a way to get an ugly win. I would also like to personally thank Alex Smith for the biggest assist of all in the Eagles victory...
LPS Player of the Game: Kevin Kolb (Congrats, you win a mention on this website!!) Every week I give this to an Eagle. If I didn't do that, Alex Smith would get the game ball for handing the Eagles the victory. But I'm going with Kolb for his stellar performance with his back against the wall. It was put up or shut up time for Kolb. He needed a solid effort to quell some of the mega-bust questions.
LPS Afterthought Nuggets:
* I feel a lot better about Kolb then I did the last few weeks. Vick is still better suited right now for the Eagles but Kolb at least showed something last night.
* Kolb had a Vick-like escape from pressure and threw across his body on the Brent Celek TD in the 1st Q.
* Nice forced fumble by Brandon Graham late in the 4th Q that Quintin Mikell took to the house.
* Kudos to Nate Allen who saved the game with a pass deflection late in the 4th quarter on and all out blitz. If he doesn't defend that ball, Gore goes to the house and we are having a far different conversation about the Eagles this morning.
* LeSean McCoy is one tough SOB!! He appears to be a super-star in the making... Really talented player. Zach from LPS has always said McCoy has that Westbrook-like shake and bake and ability to beat the opponent to the spot.
* Nice pick by rookie Trevard Lindley to ice the game.
* Moise Fokou made the most of his extra time at OLB. Nice forced fumble on Gore early...
* The Eagles secondary missed the cover skills of Asante Samuel.
* Antonio Dixon played well in place of Bunkley.
* Alex Smith stinks and is a monumental first overall draft pick bust.
* How is the Eagles kick coverage so piss-poor. Bobby April?? The special teams have nose-dived ever since Ike Reese was sent packing.
* Owen Schmitt has been a nice pick up after losing pro-bowl FB Leonard Weaver.
* DeSean Jackson's increasing tendency to get banged up is growing more concerning.
* It's hard to except that Brian Westbrook is just done... What a career.
* Wonder if the 49ers are kicking themselves in the ass for not going after McNabb now?? They have some super-talented players i.e. Crabtree, Davis and Gore.
* Speaking of McNabb, was that a late 4th Q comeback over the Packers yesterday?? Who knew... Can't believe the DeadSkins are 3-2 and beat the Packers yesterday.
* The Cowgirls cured my pain of the Skins and Giants winning by getting beat at home securing a 1-3 record at the bottom of the NFC East. Romo is no moment player folks...
* I'm setting the over/under at 5 for the number of times the Monday Night broadcast will talk about Brett Favre's ding-dang pic...
Flyers News Alert: Chris Pronger Will Play Tonight, Bobrovsky Will Start In Goal
By DT
Info via Flyers beat writers Frank Seravalli, Tim Panotch and Sam Carchidi:
* Chris Pronger will return to the line-up tonight for the Flyers home opener vs Avalanche.
* Rookie goalie Sergei Bobrovsky will start in goal tonight.
* Remember as well, the Flyers 2010 Eastern Conference Champion Banner will be raised to the rafters tonight before the game.
This report was just updated, that he will "likely" play... Pronger wouldn't fully admit it because he likes to keep the suspense going!
Info via Flyers beat writers Frank Seravalli, Tim Panotch and Sam Carchidi:
* Chris Pronger will return to the line-up tonight for the Flyers home opener vs Avalanche.
* Rookie goalie Sergei Bobrovsky will start in goal tonight.
* Remember as well, the Flyers 2010 Eastern Conference Champion Banner will be raised to the rafters tonight before the game.
This report was just updated, that he will "likely" play... Pronger wouldn't fully admit it because he likes to keep the suspense going!
Phillies Sweep Reds Behind Hamels, NLCS Starts Saturday
By DT
And just like that, the Reds go home...
The Phillies just man-handled the Reds in the NLDS with pitching and have advanced to the NLCS for the third straight year on the heals of a 2-0 victory tonight. This was the first time in Phillies history they have swept a team in a playoff series.
Here is an eye opening stat I heard on CSN: The Reds 3/4/5 (Votto, Rolen, Gomes/Nix) went a horrific 2-30 in the NLDS. Oh Scotty, you freaking goober...
As far as the game, the night belonged to Cole Hamels. He is an impressive 4-0 in closeout games and dominated the Reds tonight getting his first ever playoff complete game. Hamels was dealing and his change-up was dynamic. The Reds had no shot... Hamels line from tonight - CG, 0 runs, 5 hits, 9 K's, 0 BB, 119 pitches (37 B, 82 S).
Numerous people owe Cole Hamels an apology...You know who you are!
The only concern that came out of the NLDS is the Phillies-O struggled. Tonight they could only muster 2 runs, but with Hamels it's all they needed. Their first run tonight came in the first inning off a throwing error by Orlando Cabrera that scored Polanco. The other run was a solo shot from Chase Utley. I definitely want to see the O get going, but they have the experience to get it done however necessary. This series was won with pitching and capitalizing on terrible opponent mistakes. We'll see what the next series holds.
Speaking of the next series, the Phils await the winner of the Giants/Braves series that is currently 2-1 Giants advantage. Game 4 of that series is tomorrow night in Atlanta. If necessary, Game 5 would be Wednesday. The NLCS will start in Philly on Saturday night no matter who the opponent is. The Phils get 5 days to relax and wait... Let the argument begin if that's a positive or negative...
Just a quick note from the ALCS side... The Yanks have swept the shameful Twins and advanced. The Rays have crawled back into their series with the Rangers winning both games in Texas over the weekend. That series is 2-2 heading back to Tampa for Game 5 on Tuesday night. Neither team has won a home game, go figure...
Here is the MLB schedule through the World Series if you want to plan accordingly: http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/schedule/ps.jsp?y=10&tcid=nav_mlb_schedule
And just like that, the Reds go home...
The Phillies just man-handled the Reds in the NLDS with pitching and have advanced to the NLCS for the third straight year on the heals of a 2-0 victory tonight. This was the first time in Phillies history they have swept a team in a playoff series.
Here is an eye opening stat I heard on CSN: The Reds 3/4/5 (Votto, Rolen, Gomes/Nix) went a horrific 2-30 in the NLDS. Oh Scotty, you freaking goober...
As far as the game, the night belonged to Cole Hamels. He is an impressive 4-0 in closeout games and dominated the Reds tonight getting his first ever playoff complete game. Hamels was dealing and his change-up was dynamic. The Reds had no shot... Hamels line from tonight - CG, 0 runs, 5 hits, 9 K's, 0 BB, 119 pitches (37 B, 82 S).
Numerous people owe Cole Hamels an apology...You know who you are!
The only concern that came out of the NLDS is the Phillies-O struggled. Tonight they could only muster 2 runs, but with Hamels it's all they needed. Their first run tonight came in the first inning off a throwing error by Orlando Cabrera that scored Polanco. The other run was a solo shot from Chase Utley. I definitely want to see the O get going, but they have the experience to get it done however necessary. This series was won with pitching and capitalizing on terrible opponent mistakes. We'll see what the next series holds.
Speaking of the next series, the Phils await the winner of the Giants/Braves series that is currently 2-1 Giants advantage. Game 4 of that series is tomorrow night in Atlanta. If necessary, Game 5 would be Wednesday. The NLCS will start in Philly on Saturday night no matter who the opponent is. The Phils get 5 days to relax and wait... Let the argument begin if that's a positive or negative...
Just a quick note from the ALCS side... The Yanks have swept the shameful Twins and advanced. The Rays have crawled back into their series with the Rangers winning both games in Texas over the weekend. That series is 2-2 heading back to Tampa for Game 5 on Tuesday night. Neither team has won a home game, go figure...
Here is the MLB schedule through the World Series if you want to plan accordingly: http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/schedule/ps.jsp?y=10&tcid=nav_mlb_schedule
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Eagles vs 49ers Preview & Thoughts
By DT
The Eagles travel to San Francisco tonight for Sunday Night Football to play the 49ers. The 49ers are a team that has been a total bust this season with a miserable 0-4 record. That's what happens when you have a bad QB...
That being said this game is a bad match-up for the Eagles, both in personnel and timing. The 49ers are a very dangerous 0-4 team and have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Plus where they're strong, the Eagles are weak. This is a must-win game for the 49ers... A victory will save jobs and maybe even the season since the NFC West is so miserable. A loss will probably end Mike Singletary's rein there as a coach among other coordinators and front office folks. Couldn't be a worse time for the Eagles to face them.
Oh yeah, let's not forget the Eagles are under-performing and banged up significantly. Vick is out, McCoy has a cracked rib but will try and go, #1 CB Asante Samuel is out, WR Riley Cooper is out - which is more of a special teams loss, plus others. Kevin Kolb, who has looked stressed and ineffective when he's played this year (who wouldn't behind that line) will start tonight. Kolb needs a strong effort tonight. He needs to prove to the Eagles he can step up and be at least an average QB in the NFL. I want to see him go down the field more instead of constantly checking down.
More than anything mentioned above, my deepest concern is the two match-ups that could destroy the Eagles tonight. The two things the Eagles D stink at is stopping the run and covering TE's. They face two pro-bowl caliber players in RB Frank Gore and TE Vernon Davis, plus a former Eagle named Westbrook...
This is a real gut check for the Eagles tonight. They need a drastic improvement in discipline and Kevin Kolb needs to step up and win this game. If he can't be the difference, the Eagles are in a lot of trouble.
* If the Eagles D can somehow man-up and answer the bell against pro-bowl caliber players Frank Gore and Vernon Davis.
* How Kevin Kolb performs in the biggest game of his young career. Lets' see if he can get comfortable and keep his eyes down field as opposed to watching the D-line rush. You will know that answer by where he throws the ball. If he's checking down constantly like last week, his eyes are watching the rush...
* If LeSean McCoy is very limited because of his broken rib, watch if Mike Bell and Eldra Buckley can step up and do something useful.
LPS Fun Fact: The Eagles will face several former players tonight. Brian Westbrook and Takeo Spikes are two of them. The other one would have been Michael Lewis but he decided to walk off the team last week citing personal reasons and a relationship with the 49ers beyond repair. The straw that broke the camel's back was his benching in favor of Taylor Mays two weeks ago. You don't see that every day... An NFL player walking off a team.
I have a terrible feeling about this game. As I said earlier, playing a team on the road under the bright Sunday Night lights that's 0-4 and desperate is no good. Plus the Eagles are banged up and missing several starters. Oh yeah, and we face pro-bowl caliber players in RB Frank Gore and TE Vernon Davis which are two areas the Eagles suck at stopping. For the Eagles to win, it's all about Kevin Kolb. Kolb needs to be the player Reid thought he was and step-up and win this game. If Kolb plays like he has so far this season, the Eagles will be the 49ers first win of the season.
I think Kolb's performance will be better but not stellar. Couple that with the O-line's constant issues and LeSean McCoy's rib injury, it may not be enough to win. I think the Eagles D may be the main course of the evening though. They're leaking like a sieve and will be without Asante Samuel to add to the fun. The DT's need to man-up and play like first round picks tonight. All of them got owned last week which in-turn got the linebacker's mauled. I will be very surprised if the Eagles win this game...
The Pick: 49ers 20 - Eagles 10
The Eagles travel to San Francisco tonight for Sunday Night Football to play the 49ers. The 49ers are a team that has been a total bust this season with a miserable 0-4 record. That's what happens when you have a bad QB...
That being said this game is a bad match-up for the Eagles, both in personnel and timing. The 49ers are a very dangerous 0-4 team and have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Plus where they're strong, the Eagles are weak. This is a must-win game for the 49ers... A victory will save jobs and maybe even the season since the NFC West is so miserable. A loss will probably end Mike Singletary's rein there as a coach among other coordinators and front office folks. Couldn't be a worse time for the Eagles to face them.
Oh yeah, let's not forget the Eagles are under-performing and banged up significantly. Vick is out, McCoy has a cracked rib but will try and go, #1 CB Asante Samuel is out, WR Riley Cooper is out - which is more of a special teams loss, plus others. Kevin Kolb, who has looked stressed and ineffective when he's played this year (who wouldn't behind that line) will start tonight. Kolb needs a strong effort tonight. He needs to prove to the Eagles he can step up and be at least an average QB in the NFL. I want to see him go down the field more instead of constantly checking down.
More than anything mentioned above, my deepest concern is the two match-ups that could destroy the Eagles tonight. The two things the Eagles D stink at is stopping the run and covering TE's. They face two pro-bowl caliber players in RB Frank Gore and TE Vernon Davis, plus a former Eagle named Westbrook...
This is a real gut check for the Eagles tonight. They need a drastic improvement in discipline and Kevin Kolb needs to step up and win this game. If he can't be the difference, the Eagles are in a lot of trouble.
3 Things To Watch For Tonight:
* If the Eagles D can somehow man-up and answer the bell against pro-bowl caliber players Frank Gore and Vernon Davis.
* How Kevin Kolb performs in the biggest game of his young career. Lets' see if he can get comfortable and keep his eyes down field as opposed to watching the D-line rush. You will know that answer by where he throws the ball. If he's checking down constantly like last week, his eyes are watching the rush...
* If LeSean McCoy is very limited because of his broken rib, watch if Mike Bell and Eldra Buckley can step up and do something useful.
LPS Fun Fact: The Eagles will face several former players tonight. Brian Westbrook and Takeo Spikes are two of them. The other one would have been Michael Lewis but he decided to walk off the team last week citing personal reasons and a relationship with the 49ers beyond repair. The straw that broke the camel's back was his benching in favor of Taylor Mays two weeks ago. You don't see that every day... An NFL player walking off a team.
DT's Pick:
I have a terrible feeling about this game. As I said earlier, playing a team on the road under the bright Sunday Night lights that's 0-4 and desperate is no good. Plus the Eagles are banged up and missing several starters. Oh yeah, and we face pro-bowl caliber players in RB Frank Gore and TE Vernon Davis which are two areas the Eagles suck at stopping. For the Eagles to win, it's all about Kevin Kolb. Kolb needs to be the player Reid thought he was and step-up and win this game. If Kolb plays like he has so far this season, the Eagles will be the 49ers first win of the season.
I think Kolb's performance will be better but not stellar. Couple that with the O-line's constant issues and LeSean McCoy's rib injury, it may not be enough to win. I think the Eagles D may be the main course of the evening though. They're leaking like a sieve and will be without Asante Samuel to add to the fun. The DT's need to man-up and play like first round picks tonight. All of them got owned last week which in-turn got the linebacker's mauled. I will be very surprised if the Eagles win this game...
The Pick: 49ers 20 - Eagles 10
LPS Week 5 Fantasy Plays & Money Picks
LPS 6 FANTASY PLAYS
LPS Fantasy Must-plays:
Cedric Benson vs Bucs: If your in a league that starts a couple RB's and/or has a flex spot, Benson is a great play this week. If you are lucky enough to have depth at RB and Benson isn't always your starter, start him this week. The Bucs are a miserable team and I look for a big day from Benson against a soft Bucs D.
Sam Bradford/Mark Clayton vs Lions: Even though the Lions have a very good front-4, their back-7 is terrible. QB Sam Bradford has started to open some eyes with his stellar play and the Rams are quietly having a strong start to the season. WR Mark Clayton has emerged as Bradford's favorite target and is having a good fantasy season thus far. If he is still available or on your bench start him this week. Same for Bradford...
Matt Forte vs Panthers: This is another match-up you can take advantage of this week. Forte has been a very inconsistent fantasy player since his rookie season but this week he should have great numbers. He going up against the Panthers and the Bears will be without Jay Cutler. The Bears will lean heavily on Forte both running wise and in the short passing game, so take advantage!
LPS Fantasy Stay-aways:
Eagles O-players vs 49ers: I would sit any Eagles offensive player today if you can. The 49ers are a dangerous team who are completely desperate to win a game and save some coaching jobs. This is a must-win for the 49ers. On top of that, LeSean McCoy has a cracked rib and Kevin Kolb is starting in place of Mike Vick. Kolb has looked lost and stressed in his playing time this season. Most of the problem is the O-line gives him no time. I would also stay away from DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and Brent Celek. Because Kolb is struggling so much behind that O-line, these guys have not had much production when Kolb plays. If you can start someone else in their place, do so.
Any Redskin vs Packers: This one is obvious. Not only are the Packers a stellar team, the Skins are coming off an emotional victory over the Eagles last Sunday. I expect a let-down from the Skins and domination by the Packers. If you have McNabb, Cooley, Torain, Moss or even the Skins D, sit em.
Giants D vs Texans: The Giants D last week but up stupid good numbers against the Bears. If you didn't see, they had double digit sacks! Not only do you have to worry about a let-down, but the Texans are far to talented to allow that to happen. I look for the Texans to carve up the Giants D and expose the Giants as a very mediocre squad at best. Remember how bad the Colts lit-up the Giants in Week 1?
LPS MONEY PICKS
LPS Suicide Pool Pick Options:
Falcons over Browns: Even though the Browns are at home coming off a victory vs the Bengals, take Atlanta. Atlanta is a very good team and will feast of Jake Delhomme who will start today for the Browns. The Browns are a team that is a safe play to take the opponent almost ever week. After a rare victory last week, it's a stone-cold lock.
Colts over Chiefs: If you haven't used the Colts yet for a pick, use them this week. They're are coming off a huge upset loss to the Jags. Even though the Colts are banged up, they're home and looking to wash out that bad taste in their mouth from an embarrassing loss last week.
Texans over Giants OR Packers over Skins: I gave two here because most people may have used the Packers already in their pool. The Packers are a little banged up but so are the Skins. Plus they will be without Albert Haynesworth who is mourning the loss of a younger brother. Much like my fantasy plays, I expect the banged up Skins to falter after an emotional victory last week over the Eagles. Even with the Packers injuries, most notably Nick Barnett, they're still way to much for the Skins to handle.
The Texans are also primed to pound the Giants at home. The Giants are coming off a historic defensive effort against the Bears, but just like when they played the Colts, I expect the Texans to provide the same high scoring numbers.
LPS Spread Pick Options:
Packers (-2.5): I think the Packers blow this number out of the water in DC today. I think the Packers expose the Skins for the frauds they are... I could see the Packers winning by at least two scores. (see Suicide Pool pick for more info)
Broncos (+7.5): I think the Ravens will beat the Broncos outright today but I don't think they can cover this big of a number. The Broncos have been in ever game this season after the surprising emergence of Kyle Orton. Broncos keep this close probably ending with a field goal in the Ravens favor.
Falcons (-3): Even though the Falcons are on the road, I think they cover this number easily. Like I said earlier in my fantasy plays, the Browns are coming off a big win against the Bengals last week and will start Jake Delhomme. That is not a good combo for a bad team to win for a second straight week. I see the Falcons winning this by at least 10 points.
(LPS was 4-0-1 in Week 4 Money Picks)
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