World Champions, Party of 5!

On a night of celebration and ceremony, the Los Angeles Lakers kicked off the 2009-2010 NBA season in quest of becoming back-to-back Champions and winning their 16th world tittle. Prior to the game, the players and coaching staff all received their Championship rings upon introduction as the 2008-2009 World Championship banner was revealed. All this happened while newest Laker --Ron Artest sat in the locker room preparing for the game. Artest, who was on opposite ends in the first round of last season's Western conference playoffs as a Houston Rocket, was the only Laker to not receive a ring. & Just as I suspected, Artest came out with a new haircut and the Laker emblem embroidered into his head.

The Lakers played game 1 without one of their biggest pieces to the puzzle in Pau Gasol. Gasol's currently sidelined with a knee injury and could be expected back as soon as next week. Without their leading big man, the Lakers took on their Los Angeles counterparts --The Los Angeles Clippers. The Lakers went on to win the game by a score of 99-92. The Lakers seemed a bit sluggish to start off the season, but I believe all the pieces to the puzzle they had last season are still there. Trevor Ariza's departure hurt a bit, but Artest's addition should fill the void quite well. Don't expect to see Artest scoring the 20-some points he's used to averaging in years past, but don't be surprised if his numbers in the assists category begin to rise either.

With every start to the season comes expectations and predictions. As for mine, you already know I'm going with my defending world champion Lakers for the Western Conference. In the Eastern Conference I like the Boston Celtics' chances of stirring up enough trouble for both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the defending Eastern Conference champion Orlando Magic. With Rasheed Wallace added to the team, I sense a rematch of the 2007-2008 NBA Finals, this time with L.A. coming out on top. With that being said, Cheers to a great start to the 2009-2010 NBA season & of coarse, Go Lakers!

Welcome to New York!

The Yankees turn to Jay-Z for some inspiration after losing game 1 of the World Series at home to the Philadelphia Phillies. Jay's seen in the photo above sitting alongside actress and main squeeze of Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez -- Kate Hudson. Jay who's been seen a lot lately at the new Yankee stadium cheering on the Yankees all postseason long, is one of New York's biggest icons and most well known faces in both the music industry and NY sports.

Before tonight's game he will be performing a track off of his new album "The Blueprint 3" entitled "Empire State of Mind" featuring female artist and song writer Alicia Keys. The song has also been an introduction track for Yankees captain Derek Jeter. As for the pitching match-up, New York's A.J. Burnett will take on Philly's Pedro Martinez. Let the "Who's your daddy" chants begin!

Throwback Thursday x Vote 4 Pedro

This one's a little late, but like the saying goes "better late than never." & What better time to shine some light on Pedro Martinez than right now. In a press conference early Wednesday morning before game 1 of the 2009 World Series took place, Pedro went on to say he just might be the most influential player to ever step foot in Yankee stadium. Whether or not that's true, he'll be playing a big role in the fall classic by starting game 2. For once I agree with ESPN's John Kruk who said he wasn't too sure what Pedro meant by that.

Martinez was a huge factor in game 2 of the NLCS against the Los Angeles Dodgers, as he started the game not having pitched in 17 days. Despite not being on the mound in over 2 weeks, he went on to pitch 7 scoreless innings by striking out 3 and surrendering only 2 hits to a powerful young Dodger line-up. The now 37 year old veteran looked more like he did when he was 27 with the Boston Red Sox. However his outing resulted in a no decision, as the bullpen later served up both the lead and game in a 2-1 loss.

On to the main stage, the Phillies turn to Pedro in game 2 of the World Series and hope to see the same kind of success Martinez had in game 2 of the NLCS. Not only will he be trying to give his team a 2-0 lead heading back to Philly, but he'll also try helping his team become the first National League champions to win back-to-back World Series tittles since the 1975-1976 Cincinnati Reds aka "The Big Red Machine". He and the rest of the Phillies ball club will also be trying to disrupt the New York Yankees' quest in winning their 27th World Series tittle to add to their already crowded trophy case. Which now leads to my predictions. Last season I underestimated the Phillies and was expecting the Rays to win it all, so I'll be sure not to make that same mistake this time around. I'm saying Philly in 6. With that being said, Go Phils!

San Francisco 49ers x Week 7 x Houston We Have a Problem

Once again, things got ugly quick for the 49ers, as the San Francisco defense looked as if it was still on it's BYE week the team had in week 6. San Francisco fell behind early and went into the half with a 21 point deficit. Niners running back Frank Gore made his return as he started his first game since getting injured on the first drive in week 3 when the team made a visit to Minnesota. However, Gore had almost no effect as the Niners run game was shut down by Mario Williams & company.

The second half told a different story, as coach Singletary decided to let back up quarterback Alex Smith start the remainder of the game in spot of Shaun Hill. Before Smith took the field I began to worry, then again things couldn't have gotten any worse than they already were, trailing 21-0. Smith, a former number 1 overall pick by the Niners in the 2005 NFL draft has played well under expectations and nowhere near his college career. But as soon as he took over for Hill, the 49er offense began to show a late form of life. Smith went on to throw for 206 yards and 3 touchdowns on 15 for 22 passing, compared to Hill's 45 yards on 6 for 11. Smith's 3 td's all caught by tight end Vernon Davis. Although the Niners were able to rally late in the game, it was still not enough as the Texans D intercepted a 4th and 10 pass by Smith with 30 second remaining ending the possible comeback.

Smith's turnaround performance caught the attention of coach Singletary as he later named Alex Smith the starter for next week's game against the Indianapolis Colts. I agree with the move, given the game Smith had but I'm not convinced he can have back-to-back performances like that. But only time will tell. Alex Smith wasn't the only Niner making headlines, as 1st round draft pick Michael Crabtree finally made his long anticipated NFL debut, leading all 49er wideouts in receptions with 5, for a total of 56 yards. It might not of been the most memorable debut but he showed that he's got great hands as he made a few difficult catches. He also played a lot more than I had expected, so it'll be interesting to see how well he does the rest of the season.

On to week 8, where once again the 49ers will have their work cut out for them, this time against former MVP and SuperBowl champion Peyton Manning & the Colts. *Gulp!*

London Calling

This past Sunday, the NFL invaded the UK by scheduling a game in England. The match-up wasn't the most competitive of games as the New England Patriots & Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced off in a one sided battle. New England went on to win the game by a score of 35 to 7. I love the idea of expanding the NFL to Europe and England more specifically, but why pick one of the most lopsided match-ups possible? Although the game sold out in a matter of minutes as 84,254 fans watched the Patriots put a shellacking on the Buccaneers at Wembley field, I find it funny considering the Buccaneers are having a hard time this season filling up their own stadium, let alone winning. But at the same time, the game was a 'Home game' for the Bucs so maybe playing in the UK was their only chance of having a sell out.

Either way, hopefully the NFL schedule makers will set up a more competitive game next time around. I think a rivalry game between the Cowboys-Giants or Packers-Vikings would be most suitable. Then again commissioner Roger Goddell always seems to see things ass backwards.

Who Needs T.O.?

T.O. Who? This offseason, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had a feeling letting go of star receiver and drama queen Terrell Owens would be best for the team's future as they opened this season in their brand new multi-billion dollar stadium. Many questioned the decision Jones made and many wondered who would be the team's star receiver? There was no doubt the release of T.O. opened a window for someone else to take the spotlight, but I think it's safe to say that position is no longer available.

Who's the man for the job you ask? He goes by the name of Miles Austin. Austin surprised a lot of people after his monster performance in last week's game against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he had 10 receptions for 250 yards and 2 touchdowns. Fluke? Austin proved he was no one hit wonder by being a key component in Sunday's win against Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons. Austin had yet another stellar performance by compiling 6 receptions for 171 yards and 2 touchdowns. I'll do the math for you, that's a whopping 16 receptions, 421 yards, and 4 touchdowns total in the past 2 games. All of that has got me asking, is this what Jerry Jones had in mind when he released T.O.?

Another impact Austin has made, isn't on the team but rather on quarterback Tony Romo. Romo and Owens didn't have the best of relationships, so it'll be interesting to see where this one goes.

Biting Off More Than He Can Chew

After last weeks upset loss the Oakland Raiders gave the Philadelphia Eagles at McAfee Stadium, Raiders Defensive end Richard Seymour made a bold statement by saying the Raiders are making the playoffs this season. As soon as I heard those words come out of Seymour's mouth I was expecting the Raiders to duplicate last week's performance and give the New York Jets a run for their money. Instead New York snapped a 3-game losing skid and handed the Raiders their 5th loss of the season, by a score of 38-0. How bad was it? Aside from the lopsided score, Mark Sanchez had enough time to sit on the sideline and eat a hot dog.

If the game's going that bad & there's enough time for the opposing quarterback to kick back and eat a hot dog instead of watch the game, then you know there's something wrong. Sanchez later apologized and said he "wasn't feeling well." I'm sure the veteran Seymour didn't approve of it. & If Seymour plans on living up to his word, his team will have to step it up with a tough remaining schedule. Week 8 @ San Diego, Week 9 BYE, Week 10 vs. Kansas City, Week 11 vs. Cincinnati, Week 12 @ Dallas, Week 13 @ Pittsburgh, Week 14 vs. Washington, Week 15 @ Denver, Week 16 @ Cleveland, & Week 17 vs. Baltimore.

Here's the video of Sanchez eating the hot dog:

I remain a Giant and you Jeremy Shockey

Last Sunday, Saints wide receiver Jeremy Shockey faced his former team -- the New York Giants for the first time since being traded in 2008. As usual Shockey claimed it wasn't about him seeking revenge on his former team, more so the two teams that were playing. We heard the same thing from Brett Favre earlier this year when he too went up against his former team. & Although both players say they didn't think about it in terms of getting back at their former clubs, we all know sticking it to them was exactly what they had in mind.

Aside from the Shockey drama, the game between New York (5-0) and New Orleans(4-0) was also a battle between two undefeated teams. & Heading into the game Eli Manning's Giants were favored to win. I'm guessing Drew Brees never got the memo. Instead Shockey's Saints not only upset the Giants, but they dismantled them 48 to 27. The Giants had the number 1 overall defense and the best pass defense entering the game. None of that meant a thing to Drew Brees as he threw for 369 yards and 4 touchdowns, 1 of those being a touchdown pass to Jeremy Shockey. Shockey finished the game with 4 receptions for 37 yards.

Broncos ugly uniforms the key to Success?

With all of the unexpected success coming from the Denver Broncos, one question I've been pondering, is how? & Then I seen the light. The Broncos ugly throwback uniforms! It may be a cheesy story or a possible good luck charm, but there's no denying the team's success while wearing them. At first glance, I thought I was watching the Chargers take on the UPS truck drivers, or maybe even the San Diego Padres baseball team. I'm not one to jump on any bandwagon's, but I'd have to give coach Josh McDaniels all the credit thus far along with his signature fist pump that's been getting just as much publicity as his team winning.

Something else to take into consideration and think about, is the trade coach McDaniels made upon his arrival as new head coach. Many asked what the Broncos were thinking when trading quarterback Jay Cutler to Chicago for Kyle Orton and a few draft picks in exchange. But as weird as it sounds, it now seems like the trade is benefiting the Broncos already. When not much was expected of you (Orton), you've got to tip your hat. Not to mention the success both he and McDaniels have had in helping wide receiver Brandon Marshall stay put.

During the offseason & preseason, Marshall had quite a few incidents in practices as he demanded a trade and wanted out of Denver. Now it seems as if Marshall couldn't be any happier.

No longer a one man team

After Carolina's 28-21 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Pro Bowl wide receiver Steve Smith says he's no longer an asset to his team. The Panthers star receiver had just 1 reception for a whopping 4 yards in the team's victory over the Bucs. Smith is touchdown less so far this season throughout the first 6 weeks. Once a favorite target of Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme, is no longer as threatening as he once was. Why you ask? Because the opposing team's defense knows by using double coverage on Smith, there's almost no other threat in the passing game for Carolina. Instead the team highly relies on their running game. Then again I would too when both DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are sharing the backfield. Hmm I sense a possible trade in the mere future?

The '08-'09 Rams resembling the '08 Lions?

With a terrible 0-5 start to the season for the St. Louis Rams, the question I've begun to ask is 'Can the '08-'09 Rams possibly be shittier than the '08 Detroit Lions?' Although the Lions have the edge of going an entire season without a win, as they did last season by a owning an 0-16 record. But the Rams aren't far behind Detroit, as they've know loss their last 16 games dating back to 2008. The Rams still have another 10 games to make it in the win column, so their chances of joining the Lions and Buccaneers as the only teams to go win less an entire season are pretty slim.

However, compiling the two teams' stats, the Rams haven't allowed their opponents to score as much points per game as the Lions did during their win less season last year. St. Louis Rams oppg: 28.5, Detroit Lions oppg: 32.3. But then again it sort of evens out as the Lions managed to score more points per game than the Rams have. Rams ppg: 11.9, Lions ppg: 16.8. If you were to search for the last Rams victory, you'd have to dig back to October 19, 2008. Even though football is known for being a team sport, Rams running back Stephen Jackson is bound to have a great game to help keep the Rams from joining that win less class. But only time will tell...

There's no wonder the team is up for sale. & I think Rush Limbaugh ought to thank commissioner Roger Goodell for denying his interest in buying the St. Louis Rams franchise.

Favre does it again

As if you haven't had enough Favre in the past year or so, he does it again. Another come from behind win for Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings, this time against the Baltimore Ravens (33-31). Like the rest of 'em, it might seem like just another victory under #4's belt, but this one gives Favre something he's never done before, and that's start a season 5-0. Although it's a career first, I'm amazed Favre never reached the accomplishment during his tenure with the Packers, as he served 16 long seasons in Green Bay. Instead it comes during his first season as quarterback of the rival Vikings, go figure.

With the football season already reaching week 7, the Vikings would be a good bid to win the NFC Championship. But I'm not convinced yet they can stick around with another undefeated NFC foe, and that's Drew Brees & the New Orleans Saints. It's still early on in the season, but if those two were to face off in the playoffs, we'd see quite the battle between two explosive offenses.

The Brady Bunch

The big question coming into Sunday's game regarding the Titans, was what has to happen in order to get back up quarterback Vince Young the ball? The Titans' season has started off poor to say the least & you almost feel sorry for them. Not only because they've yet to make it into the win column, but because this team had such high hopes coming into this season, after failing to bring home the gold last year by going an NFL best 13-3.

The Titans season then went from bad to worse once Tom Brady and the New England Patriots stepped foot on the icy field of Gillette Stadium. Snow wasn't the only thing in the air, as Tom Brady became the first quarterback since Donovan McNabb to throw 4 touchdowns in a single quarter. But 4 wasn't enough for the 3-time Superbowl Champ and 2-time Superbowl MVP, as he went on to throw for a record 5th second quarter touchdown. The feat lands the New England quarterback in the record books by becoming the first quarterback to ever throw 5 touchdowns in a single quarter since 1950.

The score heading into halftime was an unheard of 45-0. The 45 points was also the most first half points by any team since 2002. But the offensive onslaught didn't stop there, as Brady came back out in the second half of the game to throw for another touchdown, giving him 6 total touchdowns to go along with his 380 yards. 59-0 was the final. What I find most amazing aside from Brady's record setting performance, is how accurate he was able to throw the ball in both rainy & snowy conditions, completing 29 passes out of 34 attempts. It might have taken Brady and the Patriots a little big longer than they had hoped, but I think it's safe to say he's back!

San Francisco 49ers x Week 6 x Crabtree

So far this Football season has been full of surprises and upsets. Through the first 5 weeks, both the Broncos (5-0) and Bengals (4-1) have been atop the list by surprising everyone in a good way as they've played better than many if not most expected. & Then there's those who haven't. I.E. The Titans. But one team that doesn't get much recognition is the Houston Texans. The Texans were in Cinci on Sunday to take on the mighty Bengals where Houston came out on top 28-17.

With the 49ers enjoying a BYE week and trying to recover from a brutal home beating by the Atlanta Falcons, they'll have their work cut out for them up against those same Texans that upset the Bengals. Houston isn't known for its defense, but rather their offense, led by quarterback Matt Schuab who threw for 392 yards on Sunday to go along with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception. However the quarterback position isn't the only weapon the Texans have on offense. Running back Steve Slaton and wide out Andre Johnson should give the Niner defense plenty to deal with.

This BYE week isn't only helpful to prepare for the upcoming opponent, but it also gives San Francisco star running back Frank Gore some more time to recover from his ankle injury, as he's expected to make a return to the field next Sunday. Another anticipated return to the field is the one Michael Crabtree will be making, as he makes his NFL debut. Little more than a week ago Crabtree and the Niners agreed to a 6-year contract. & The BYE week is that much more beneficial as it'll give Crabtree some much needed time to get familiar with the playbook. The former Texas Tech star receiver isn't expected to play much, aside from 3rd downs, but it'll still be a sight to see, watching him out there with an offense that has been relatively quiet in the passing game.

Happy Birthday John Wooden

For those of you who follow College Basketball, this man needs no introduction. But for those of you that aren't familiar with John Wooden I'll give you a little recap. Wooden spent 27 seasons as coach of the UCLA Bruins basketball team. & Although it took him 16 seasons to finally win his first NCAA Championship, he went on to win 9 more, giving him an unprecedented 10 tittles. Wooden also became the first person ever to be inducted in the Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach. With all that being said, Happy 99th to the Wizard of Westwood!

San Francisco 49ers x Week 5 x Asleep on the job

Yesterday's game got ugly quick, as mishaps were no friend to the 49ers, both on offense and defense. After falling behind early 14 to 0, the Niners began to show life scoring 10 points to make it a 4 point game. But the scoring didn't get any closer from there, as the Falcons offense took advantage of the sleeping San Francisco defense by scoring 31 unanswered points highlighted by Roddy White's memorable performance -- 8 receptions, 2 touchdown & a franchise record -- 210 yards. Falcons running back Michael Turner also added 3 touchdowns to go along with his 97 rushing yards.

The final score of 45 to 10 was the 49ers worst home loss in 42 years since a game at Kezar Stadium in 1967 -- and their worst ever at Candlestick Park. As always, the Niner offense wasn't expected to do much as usual, but the defense, that's usually lights out, was caught off guard to say the least. One huge mistake that's been most talked about, was after San Francisco corner back Dre Bly's 3rd quarter interception of Atlanta's quarterback Matt Ryan. Bly ran a good 15 yards before stealing a page out of Deion Sanders' book, by showboating & putting his hand to his ear. The only difference between the two, is that when Showtime did it, he actually scored. Bly on the other hand carried the ball like it was a loaf of bread and ended up fumbling the ball.

With the strict play of coach Singletary, it was only a matter of time before Bly was confronted and disciplined for his antics. In an early Monday morning press conference, Bly took the podium from coach Singletary to apologize for his actions. Prior to Sunday's blowout loss, Shaun Hill was undefeated at home and held a 7-0 record at Candlestick Park.

With a BYE next week, you better believe Singletary will have this Niner team in check and ready for Houston come week 7. & Hopefully we'll see a return from star running back Frank Gore.

Throwback Thursday x Brett Favre

It's a no brainer that everyone knows who Brett Favre is. What many people don't know about number 4, is who drafted him in 1991. Everyone thinks Favre was a packer until last season when he signed with the New York Jets. I know this because I too thought he was a Packer his whole career until 2008.

As a Falcon, Favre was given little to no chance to prove himself. Then again, when he did get a chance, he failed to succeed. Brett's first pass in an NFL regular season game resulted in an interception returned for a touchdown. The rest of his stay in Atlanta was no better, as he only attempted 3 other passes, 2 of them being interceptions and no completions.

It was Green Bay's general manager Ron Wolf who decided to give Favre a shot. Favre was then traded to the Packers in 1992 for a 1st round draft pick and the rest is history. The crazy thing is, there's no telling where Favre would be or what he would be doing if it wasn't for Ron Wolf.

& While we're on the subject, congratulations to Brett Favre for becoming the first player in NFL history to defeat all 32 current teams, as he beat his former team on his first try in Minnesota, 30-to-23.

The smell of Playoffs in the air!

Last night, two teams headed into the Minnesota Metrodome with one thing on their mind -- the Playoffs. The Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins battled it out for an extra regular season game, number 163. The AL Central tiebreaker went into extras with the Twins winning it in 12 long hard fought innings by a score of 6-to-5, thanks to Alexi Casilla's walkoff hit. A record setting 54,088 fans stood eargly to watch their Minnesota ballclub overcome the unthinkable. Not only did the fans in attendance get to witness history, but they also played a part in it by being part of the largest regular-season crowd in Metrodome history.

With the Twins' late season surge playing catch up, they became the first team in Major League history to win the division after trailing by three games with four to play. & What could have been the last and final Twins game played at the Metrodome, will now have to wait as they get to see yet another game indoors. The only difference is it'll be in the postseason as the Twins host the highly favored New York Yankees for game 3 and 4 (if necessary).

With the rest of the playoff match-ups beginning to take shape, I don't think we'll see any game as exciting as the one played by the Tigers & Twins. But every playoff game and series is worth watching, which leads to my playoff and world series predictions. In one of my earlier posts Peanuts!, Get'churrr Peanuts! I gave both my playoff and world series predictions, but with half the teams I predicted to make it on vacation, it looks like I'll have to renew those predictions.


NLDS:
St. Louis Cardinals over Los Angeles Dodgers in 5 games.
Philadelphia Phillies over Colorado Rockies in 5 games.

ALDS:
New York Yankees over Minnesota Twins in 4 games.
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim over Boston Red Sox in 4 games.

NLCS:
Philadelphia Phillies over Los Angeles Dodgers in 6 games.

ALCS:
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim over New York Yankees in 6 games.

World Series:
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim over Philadelphia Phillies in 6 games.

A GIANT STEP FORWARD

For the Giants, it's been an eventful season, mainly highlighted by dominant pitching and some unforgettable milestones that included the first Giant no-hitter in 33 years and Randy Johnson's 300th Win. But unfortunately, the Giants season was cut short as they were unable to make it to the postseason. With or without a pennant, don't discredit the Giants failure to make it to the playoffs, as they made it interesting and competed for the wild card all season long. Sure no season is complete without winning a ring or making it to the fall classic for some, but what this team did, was surprise everyone that doubted them wrong and proved that this team is on the horizon of competing for the division for many years to come.

In early April, this team had little to no expectations as fans and analyst's alike had no respect and or hope for this team as they were projected to be at the bottom of the standings. Instead, this team has reached and surpassed expectations, and that includes mine. Coming into the season projected to be a sub .500 team and finishing the year 14-games over .500 is a huge step forward. Who knew a solid pitching staff and a guy dubbed the nickname "Kung Fu Panda" would have kept this team alive, this late into the season? If Sabean can land us a power hitter or two, and finally live up to his 'youth movement' scheme, we could be a force to be reckoned with. I know he'll go out and acquire a big bat, I'm just curious who it'll be. Here's to a busy off season!

A little something else for us Giants fans to look forward to, is whether or not that stud in the pic above wins himself back-to-back Cy Young awards. This time he'll be up against two Cardinals, Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Although baseball season is reaching it's climax, one season begins where the other ends. with that being said, we welcome back Hockey. Go Sharks!

All eyes on Favre x Monday Night Football

Tonight, Brett Favre could make history and become the first player in NFL history to defeat all 32 current teams, if he beats the Green Bay Packers. Why hasn't Favre beaten the Cheese Heads before might you ask? Because he's never played against them! After 16 long eventful seasons in the Gold and Green, Favre will get his first shot at his former team. Many think Favre signed with the Vikings to seek revenge on his former team, but Favre continues to say that couldn't be further from the truth.

Whether or not revenge is what Favre seeks, tonight's game will be one for the decades. The Vikings - Packers rivalry on Monday Night Football is already huge enough, but with Favre on opposite sides for once makes it that much more exciting. In fact it should be EPIC! Although my money is on Minnesota, I think it'll be Adrian Peterson who makes the biggest impact and takes home the game ball. But with #4 on the field, you never know what's going to happen, as he once again proved that by pulling a miracle win out of his ass last week against my 49ers.

Earlier today, ESPN's Sports Nation dedicated an entire segment on Favre. But heading into tonight's game, the Green Bay fans have to be the ones shaking in their boots. After Favre led them to the promise land time after time and put them in a situation to win, they'll now have to witness the greatest Packer of all time play against them. After all, Wisconsin did name a day after the guy -- Brett Favre day. Many are saying it'll be the most watched NFL game of the regular season. With that being said, ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!?!

Lions & Injuries & Bears OH MY!

Last weekend, the Detroit Lions did the unthinkable. That's right, they finally won a game defeating the Washington Redskins 19-14. The win snapped a 19-game losing streak. A skid that dated all the way back to December 23, 2007. Much help came by way of rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford. Stafford threw for 241 yards and 1 touchdown. The lone touchdown coming late in the 4th quarter to help put the embarrassment to rest. Instead the embarrassment was put on Washington. We all knew someone was going to give in and lose to the Lions, the only question was who? and when?

With the monkey off of their shoulder and with a win on their record, the Lions made a trip to Chicago in quest of yet another win. Instead they lost the game 48-24, despite keeping up with the Bears the entire first half. In fact they actually held a 14 to nothing lead in the first quarter. Again, much of the Lions success was thanks to Matt Stafford. Lions fans were held breathless however, in the fourth quarter when Stafford went down on a sack. The rookie quarterback was then seen limping off the field after twisting his knee. As if things couldn't get any worse for the Lions organization.

Heading into week 4, you almost wanted to see the Lions win the rest of their games just because you felt sympathy for them. Right now, there's no word on whether or not Stafford is okay, but team officials are examining if Stafford has a dislocated right kneecap. If so, veteran backup Daunte Culpepper would be next in line to replace Stafford. Stafford left the game after completing 24 out of 36 passes and threw for 296 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception.

San Francisco 49ers x Week 4 x Silence of the Lambs

As bitter as last week's miracle loss was for the 49ers, they were in position to redeem themselves heading into week 4. San Francisco was yet to play their only remaining division rival -- The St. Louis Rams who are yet to win a game. However the Niners offense took a little longer to get the ball rolling and headed into the half with a 7-0 lead, thanks to a miscue on a punt that hit a Rams player and rolled into the end zone, only to be recovered by San Francisco line backer Scott McKillop for a touchdown.

With an injured Frank Gore, backup running back Glen Coffee made his starting debut. He didn't do much, but similar to last week, the defense is what helped the team shine. Not to take anything away from Shaun Hill's solid 152 yard, 2 touchdown performance, but the game ball would have to go to line backer Patrick Willis who had yet another big day. The defending defensive player of the year --Willis finished the game with 5 tackles and added an interception in which he returned 23 yards for a touchdown. Since his presence in the NFL, Patrick Willis had solidified himself among the most elite defenders in the game today. And at such an early age, there's only room for improvement.

The rest of the defense tallied 5 sacks, and recovered a fumble for a touchdown in the forth quarter. Vernon Davis who had a stellar game last week came through again today with a touchdown reception right down the middle. Wide receiver Josh Morgan had the other touchdown on offense. The 49ers sealed the victory and shutout their NFC West rivals for the first time since September 8th of 1996 when they did so in a 34-0 game. The Rams also helped the Niners out by committing a few costly penalties. All together they committed 10 penalties for a total of 73 yards.

Next week tells a different story, as the 2-1 Atlanta Falcons visit Candle Stick park for a 1:05 afternoon match-up. The San Francisco defense should have their hands full with Matt Ryan and Tony Gonzales. Until then, Seacrest signing out! lookin ass.