Colts End Jets Impressive Playoff Run

Manning continues to rewrite the records books - Similar to the NFC Conference Championship, the battle for the AFC Conference Championship hosted the number 1 seed, the Indianapolis Colts. They're opponent however was one nobody expected to be there -- The New York Jets. But after already defeating both the Cincinnati Bengals and the San Diego Chargers in the postseason, the Jets were just as confident as anyone. Led by a strong defense and a ground game that led the the league in rushing, the Jets started the game like they were destined to win. But it wasn't long before Peyton Manning began to work his brilliance and lead the Colts to their second Superbowl appearance in four seasons.

Although Mark Sanchez and the Jets failed to make it to the Superbowl, they almost did it in the opposite way many thought they could. For as much as the team depends on it's defense, the offense seemed to be what was keeping them in the game to almost pull off the upset. After an 11-point lead with under 2 minutes remaining in the first half, Manning would bring the Colts to within 4-points heading into the lockers, after connecting in the end-zone with WR Austin Collie. With momentum on their side, the Colts then came in during the second half and did what needed to be done, as the Jets were shutout for the remainder of the game, resulting in a final score of 30-17. With the win, the Colts got their revenge on the team that put an end to their potential undefeated run just several weeks ago.

Regardless of the outcome, I've gotta tip my hat to Mark Sanchez for proving everyone that doubted him wrong and that said he wasn't experienced enough to start in his first year in the NFL. Instead, the former USC Trojan developed into one of the more promising arms for the future as both he and Jets head coach Rex Ryan should work wonders in New York for many years to come. Sanchez finished the day throwing for 257 yards and 2 touchdowns on 17 of 30 passing attempts, giving him an overall stellar performance. But the game ball would have to go to Peyton Manning of coarse.

After the first half, Manning found his groove and shredded the best defense in the league, finishing with a total of 377 yards and 3 touchdowns on 26 of 39 passing. With Jets Pro-Bowl CB Darrelle Revis covering Colts WR Reggie Wayne, Manning completed 18 of his 26 passes to WR's Pierre Carcon (11 catches, 151 yards) and Austin Collie (7 catches, 123 yards). The 300+ passing yard performance marked Manning's 7th 300-yard playoff game of his career, passing Kurt Warner and Joe Montana for the most all-time. It's no wonder Peyton Manning was rewarded this year's league MVP. But will he be able to add another Lombardi Trophy to his already crowded trophy case?

Aside from the game itself, my favorite part had to be the award ceremony after the game. With the earthquake that hit Haiti just weeks ago, no one on the field was affected more by the tragedy than Colts WR Pierre Garcon. Garcon who is of Haitian descent, had a big day on the field and broke the record for the most receptions in an AFC Championship game and was seen celebrating after the game with teammates and holding a Haiti flag up high (as seen in the photo below). It definitely served as one of the more touching moments of the NFL season this year.

From Aints to Saints

Saints make history - In a game that live up to all expectations by giving us a spectacular overtime extravaganza, one team was sent home as the other punched their ticket to Superbowl XLIV. The 31-28 victory over the Minnesota Vikings was the first ever win for the New Orleans Saints in an NFC Conference Championship, resulting in the team's first Superbowl appearance in franchise history. However, the final score only tells a fraction of the story. By looking at the box score and the way the Vikings dominated almost every statistical category possible, you would think Minnesota would have came out on top before viewing the final score. But a number of costly turnovers late in the game would prove to be just that -- costly.

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees didn't have his typical game by throwing for some absurd amount of yards, but he did manage to throw 3 touchdowns, despite being held under 200 yards. The Pro-Bowl QB who has been replaced in this year's All-Star game, finished the day with 197 yards on 17 of 31 passing attempts. Brett Favre on the other hand, had the big day between the two in the passing game. The future Hall of Famer threw for 1 touchdown and 310 yards on 28 of 46 passing attempts. But Favre's biggest throw of the the game, would be his last. Deep in Saints territory with 12 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter and a chance to win the game in regulation, Favre threw a questionable pass across his body in traffic intended for WR Sidney Rice. Instead, the pass was picked off by Saints CB Tracy Porter, preventing the Vikings to possibly kick the game winning field goal and book a trip to Miami.

Although Favre clearly made a mistake, it was the Vikings coaching staff who deserves to be blamed. On the play prior to the interception, Minnesota was penalized 5 yards for having too many men on the field(12), knocking them out of field goal range. Also worth mentioning was the play calling. The final Vikings play that Favre threw an interception on should have been a run, as the team still had a timeout left. & It didn't help that Favre's injured left leg kept him from running for a few yards either. Regardless, the pick then led to overtime, where the Saints won the toss and the rest is history. On the Saints' first possession of overtime, kicker Garrett Hartley nailed a 40-yard field goal to send the team to Miami. Even though the Saints won fair and square, this was the type of game that you wish had the college overtime rules instead of sudden death, given you knew whichever team won the coin toss was going to win the game. And sure enough, that's what happened.

Fans that were at one point hiding their faces with paper bags, now have all the reason in the world to feel nothing short of proud as they can finally embrace their team as winners. The coaches and players however, will tell you they haven't accomplished anything until they win the Superbowl. With a little bit of help from their noisy fan base, the Saints won their first ever NFC tittle in front of a loud crowd of 71,276 screaming fans, marking the largest crowd ever in the Superdome for a Saints game. With that being said, WHO DAT? WHO DAT? WHO DAT SAY DEY GONNA BEAT DEM SAINTS?!?!?

Noteworthy - Despite the numerous fumbles, Vikings RB Adrian Peterson ran for 122 yards and 3 touchdowns alone, as the Saints' duo of Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush ran for a combined 69 yards with only 1 touchdown to show for. Sunday's game hosted 6 fumbles and a total of 6 turnovers (Minnesota-5, New Orleans-1), including 2 inside the red zone. Turnovers proved to be the key factor in the downfall of the Vikings and the glory of the Saints.

AFC Squad Stuggles To Find It's QB

With one of my more recent posts regarding the NFL Pro-Bowl, instead of attending and playing in the game, players are now beginning to pass on their chances, even after being named to the roster. This year's Pro-Bowl will be the game's first time it's being held in Miami, rather than the in Honolulu, Hawaii where it's been held the past 30 years. The 2010 Pro-Bowl will also be the first time the game will be played before the Superbowl. The players on teams still in the playoffs should get a free pass considering playing for the Lombardi Trophy is much more important than an exhibition game with little to no meaning, but the rest of the players should be honored to make the squad. But at the same time, you can't blame those who pass on the game given the possibility of injury. The game is a lot more different than other sports' All-Star games, given the contact and greater risk of injury, but never did I think the game would have as many dropouts as it's had already.

The AFC squad is having trouble with finding a starting Quarterback after a series of injuries and declined invitations by Philip Rivers, Ben Roethlisberger and Carson Palmer. All of whom passed on the chance, opening the window of opportunity for another potential candidate. As of Wednesday, Tennessee Titans QB Vince Young will now take the position and is slated to start the game for the AFC team. This year's duty will be Young's second Pro-Bowl appearance and first as a starter. Aside from Matt Schaub and Tom Brady, I think Young's the best possible choice, especially after helping the struggling Tennessee Titans improve to a .500 record of 8-8, after starting the season 0-6 behind veteran QB Kerry Collins.

What I would like to know, is why the game is being held before the Superbowl and why it's not in Hawaii. Could the economy be that screwed up that the league isn't willing to pay for plane tickets to and from Hawaii? The game was always a legitimate hit with the Hawaiian fans given they have no pro football team, or any other team for that matter. The city of Miami is already being awarded to host the Superbowl, but if the stadium is having trouble filling seats during Marlin games, what makes them think fans will sell-out a stadium to watch an exhibition football game?

Shaq Talks Relief x Shannon's In!

With the tragedy of the earthquake in Haiti still lingering and NBA's All-Star weekend right around the corner, Cleveland Cavaliers center Shaquille O'neal came up with the idea of having a star-studded Slam Dunk Contest, with a big money prize and half the proceeds going to the Haiti relief foundation. Shaq's idea of a star-studded lineup would include such players as: Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Vince Carter and one other big named player. All of which are former dunk contest winners (with the exception of teammate LeBron James). When asked about it prior to Thursday's Lakers-Cavs game, Kobe laughed and said the chances of that happening are zero, considering his age and aching injuries he's suffered this season to both his back and finger.

As good of an idea Shaq's dunk contest proposal was, Vince Carter and Kobe aren't the type of players that make it on Sports Center's Top 10 anymore with slam dunk's as those days are behind them. However, one player that will be participating in this year's Sprite Slam Dunk Contest is -- Los Angeles Lakers guard Shannon Brown. Brown has become somewhat of a human highlight reel for dunk's this season, resulting in an online phenomenon called 'LetShannonDunk.com' hoping to help Brown's campaign. & What do ya know, the league got the message. For someone as explosive as Brown is for his size (6" ft 4' in), it'll be interesting to see what he comes up with. Brown's breakthrough year this season has fans thinking nothing less than a dunk every time he steps foot on the hardwood, but he's stepped his jump shooting ability up a bit as well.

If you've been yet to see his hop's, you'll see them in this year's dunk contest as he competes against Gerald Wallace of the Charlotte Bobcats, 2-time slam dunk winner Nate Robinson of the New York Knicks and the winner of NBA's All-Star Dunk-In held at halftime of the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge, the night prior to the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest. The two players competing in the Dunk-In will be DeMar DeRozan of the Toronto Raptors and Eric Gordon of the Los Angeles Clippers. The Dunk-In wouldn't be necessary if LeBron James would have lived up to his word after announcing last year he was going to participate in the dunk contest. Instead LeBron draws his name out of the hat as if he's got something better to do. Aww is Prince James scurrrrd?

Personally, I think Nate Robinson should give it up and make room for both Gordon and DeRozan since neither of them have participated in the contest before. Instead, Nate Robinson will be making his third Sprite Slam Dunk appearance and will try to become the first ever 3-time winner. No disrespect to the 5-foot 9-inch Robinson, but I think it's time to give someone else a try. Regardless of what I think, Robinson will try to defend his tittle on February 13th at American Airlines Center in Dallas. You can catch the game at 5 p.m. PT on TNT. Get'cho pop-corn ready because it's gonna be a show!

Bush Whacked x Warner's Future

Similar to the Minnesota Vikings, the #1 seeded New Orleans Saints had a lot to prove on Sunday, as they were coming off of a BYE the previous week. Their opponent however --The Arizona Cardinals were coming off of an offensive showdown in which they beat the Green Bay Packers 51-45. The Saints on the other hand, would have little to no trouble facing that same Cardinal team as they demolished the red birds by a score of 45-14. Much thanks came from the running game of RB Reggie Bush. The former 2005 Heisman Trophy winner showed shades of his days at USC when he and Matt Lienart led the Trojans to a BCS tittle in 2005. Bush finished the game with 84 yards on the ground and a touchdown on only 5 carries. The speedy Bush showed he still has the moves he used in College to juke players out of their jockstraps by dodging defenders in the second quarter with a 46-yard touchdown run. Bush wasn't done there. Just a quarter later, Bush would show just how deadly he can be when returning the ball as well, as he ran a punt back 83 yards for a touchdown, putting the game well out of reach.

The question now being asked is can he duplicate Sunday's performance and put up the same numbers this week when the Saints host Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings? With the potent air attack from QB Drew Brees usually all the offense the Saints need, the team can be almost unstoppable if Bush can continue to put up big numbers. & If he did, the match-up between him and Vikings RB Adrian Peterson would be a match made in heaven. Switching gears onto the Cardinals side, many are beginning to wonder 'could we have seen Kurt Warner's final game?' The veteran QB has flirted with retirement in the past, but could this season truly be his last? The 38 year old Warner took some hard hits and finished the day with 205 yards and 1 interception on 17 for 26 passing.

The Purple People Eaters x Bye Bye Dallas

After Sunday's 34-3 beating the Vikings served the Cowboys, fans have quickly forgotten how weak Minnesota finished the season off. & Similar to year's past, Tony Romo proved he couldn't get over the hump as he went touchdown-less and was taken down by the Vikings defense for a total of six sacks which resulted in three fumbles by the Cowboys quarterback. To make matters worse, Romo also threw an interception, giving him three turnovers on the day, his most since Week 2. The other team's QB however, made sure Dallas wouldn't beat him in the playoffs for a fourth time. Prior to Sunday's game, Brett Favre faced the Cowboys in the postseason a total of three times, all resulting in losses for the future Hall of Famer.

Not only did Favre prevent the team from beating him for a fourth time by winning on Sunday, but he did it by setting a personal best, throwing for a playoff career-high four touchdowns. In spite of his magnificent performance, Favre had to give much thanks to the Vikings defense who decided to show up for once, after failing to deliver all season long and cause me my fantasy team(but that's another story). The 'D' held Romo in check all game long and kept him from targeting Miles Austin who has become one of his favorite targets along with TE Jason Witten. Throughout the season Austin has proved to be a nightmare to defend, but finished Sunday's game with only 4 receptions and 34 yards to show for. Witten led all Cowboys with 10 receptions for 98 yards, while neither team's run game would play much of a factor.

Helping Favre reach a new career best in postseason touchdowns, was wide-out Sidney Rice who was on the receiving end of three of them. Favre has made a star receiver out of Rice as the two have become a dominant duo this season, connecting for a total of 8 touchdowns. Prior to Favre's arrival this year, Rice had only 8 receiving touchdowns in his first 2 years combined. Rice would finish the day with 6 receptions for 141 yards and 3 touchdowns. But after Favre's fourth and final touchdown pass with just under 2 minutes remaining and the game well out of reach, Cowboys veteran linebacker Keith Brooking had a few words for Favre as he followed the QB back to the sidelines. Brooking complained that the Vikings were rubbing it in and took offense by calling it "totally classless and disrespectful." The Cowboys players called it racking up the score, but it looked almost as if Dallas had given up. Jim Rome said it best on his show 'Jim Rome Is Burning' by saying, "Just because the Cowboys were done competing for the day and wanted to get off the field as fast as they could, it doesn't mean the Vikings were."

But despite the 34-point shellacking Jerry Jones' boys received, Jones still believes in his head coach Wade Phillips as the two reached an agreement on an extension to Phillips' contract that will keep him in Dallas through the 2011 season. As disappointment hits Dallas for yet another year, the Minnesota faithful hope to see their team win the Superbowl for the first time in franchise history. & If they do, we all know who to thank, a guy named Brett. With the victory last Sunday, Favre became the first 40 year old starting quarterback to win a playoff game. Not bad for an old man.

BREAKING NEWS: Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings will have to do without Rookie receiver and kick returner Percy Harvin. As of right now Harvin is doubtful with migraines, but could play on Sunday as it'll be a game-time decision.

J-E-T-S, JETS JETS JETS! x Chargers Choke, 17-14

This past Sunday, the New York Jets proved just how deadly their defense really is by upsetting the San Diego Chargers and keeping them under 20 points for the first time this season. Prior to the loss, San Diego was riding an 11-game winning streak. But after a BYE week the previous week, it looks like the time off hurt them a lot more than it helped. With a quiet rushing game from San Diego's backs, the Chargers had to depend highly on Philip Rivers and the air attack. Although Rivers threw for a touchdown and neared the 300 yard mark, coming 2 yards shy, his 2 interceptions would be costly. Jets QB Mark Sanchez didn't have a great day offensively either, but with a stellar run game backing him up, he didn't need one.

Rookie RB Shonn Greene played exceptionally well by finishing with yet another 100-yard performance. On 23 rushes, Greene ran for 128-yards and a touchdown, including a 53-yard run. The run also happens to be the longest postseason run in Jets franchise history. Although the Jets defense played a major role in the win, they couldn't have done it without Chargers kicker Nate Kaeding's help. Kaeding, the kicker for this year's Pro-Bowl, missed 3 field goals, despite entering the game with a streak of 20 kicks without a miss and a streak of 69 field goals made from 40 yards or less, which included playoffs. However, with the game on the line and a possible chance to help send his team to Indy, Kaeding chokes and the Chargers are sent packing yet again.

When it comes to kicking field goals, the Jets have had some sort of fortune on their side as opposing teams have had a hard time making field goals against them. This post season, their opponents have missed a total of 5 field goals (2 by the Bengals & 3 by the Chargers). Call it luck but at the end of the day, the Jets are the team moving on. As the Jets prepare to play in their first AFC Championship since 1998, they'll have to face this year's league MVP -- Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. Although the Colts are one of the favorites to not only make it to the Superbowl but win the whole thing, you know Rex Ryan thinks otherwise. The team that put an end to the Colts perfect season in week 16 to keep their playoff hopes alive will once again be in the building of Lucan Oil Stadium, and once again playing for their playoff lives. This time, they can be almost certain that Peyton Manning will be playing the entire game, instead of just the first half in which he played during the team's previous meeting.

& Just like that, the team that almost everyone said had no chance in the playoffs, has easily changed a lot of minds and proved those who doubted them wrong. I'll admit, I'm one of those who have became a believer and wont be surprised if Gang Green comes out on top this week. As for the Chargers, before you begin to blame head coach Norv Turner, blame management for bringing the guy back for another few years as the Chargers front-office dishes Turner a surprising extension. Extensions are meant to be given weeks and maybe months after a playoff loss. Giving one days after your team fails to make the AFC Championship is like saying he did the right thing. Something else worth bringing up, is Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson who has fallen off the radar in terms of the league's most lethal backs. Many are questioning whether or not LT should call it quits and with Darren Sproles behind him to rely on, I've gotta agree. What do you think?

Throwback Thursday x The Bash Brothers

The man who was at the pinnacle of the baseball world at one point and time of his career is now at the bottom of the barrel. In this edition of Throwback Thursday, we take a look back at the careers of two of the most recent targets of controversy -- Mark McGwire & Jose Canseco. Nicknamed Big Mac, McGwire began his career with the Oakland Athletics where he became an instant fan favorite and went on to be named Rookie of the Year during his rookie season in 1987.

Alongside former teammate and newly found enemy Jose Canseco who also won the Rookie of the Year Award the year before in 1986, the two helped form a powerhouse offense that was dangerous in almost every aspect of the game. During their quest of becoming World Series Champions in 1989, the two were dubbed the nickname "The Bash Brothers." Although the two are no longer friends with the steroid scandal getting the better half of each player, the duo was one of the most deadliest in not only their era but in all of baseball. Even though steroids might of helped create one of the best tag-teams in baseball history, it's almost certain that no man wanted to face the two during their prime.

Frank the Tank Pro-Bowl Bound

Gore to star in NFL Pro-Bowl - Just a few weeks ago prior to the end of the NFL Regular season, the list of Pro-Bowl players for each squad were announced. Upon those named to the team representing both the San Francisco 49ers and the NFC, were 49er TE Vernon Davis, LB Patrick Willis and P Andy Lee. But as reported and confirmed earlier today, RB Frank Gore will be joining his 49er teammates in his hometown of Miami Florida. Gore will replace St. Louis Rams RB Steven Jackson who will not be able to play due to injury. The trip to this year's Pro-Bowl will be Gore's second Pro-Bowl appearance after having been selected to the game in 2006. Although it'll be Gore's second trip to the All-Star game, it'll be his first time playing professionally in his hometown of Miami since his days in which he stared as a back at the University of Miami.

The former Hurricane rushed for 1,120 yards on 229 carries this season, tying a franchise record with a career-high 10 rushing touchdowns. Gore also registered 52 receptions for 406 yards and 3 receiving touchdowns, also a career-high. Despite missing three games due to a knee injury in which he suffered on the first drive of San Francisco's visit to Minnesota in Week 3, Gore still managed to rush for over 1,000 yards, giving him four consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons (2006-2009), becoming the only player in 49ers history to reach the feat. Gore also finished his 2009 campaign with five 100-yard rushing games, tying RB Joe Perry for the most 100-yard rushing games in franchise history with 20. For what it's worth, Gore was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week in weeks 2 and 14 and ranked tied for second in the NFC in scoring with 78 points, while his 1,120 rushing yards was among the top 5 in the NFC.

With a total of four 49ers heading to Miami for this year's Pro-Bowl (The most since the team sent six 9ers in 2002), we congratulate each player for their nomination and hope them the best. Congratulations Frank the Tank!

McGwire Admits Steroid Usage

As I'm sure you've all heard by now, Mark McGwire has finally came out and admitted to using steroids. No brainer, right? The former Oakland A's and St. Louis Cardinals slugger says he used steroids throughout his career, including the 1998 season when he broke MLB's single-season home run record, dethroning Roger Marris's long-standing and highly coveted record of 61 dinger's that stood for 37 years. The former AL Rookie of the Year Award winner played 16 seasons in the Major League and finished with 583 career long balls. But although he admitted to using the banned substance, his reason remains for "health" instead of using them for home run help.

In an interview with Bob Costas on MLB Network, McGwire was asked why he finally came out to using the banned substance after lying about it in front of a congressional hearing on steroids back in 2005. McGwire's answer -- "I just had to get it off my chest." McGwire says the performance enhancing drugs played no part in the 1998 home run chase, nor did it help him hit balls over the fence. McGwire also went on to say that his numbers are genuine and were from god given talent and hand-eye coordination. The most shocking of all and most hysterical in my opinion, is that McGwire says he blames the era for his PED usage, when he's the one that started it. Both McGwire and former Oakland Athletics teammate Jose Canseco are the dynamic duo of steroid usage. Whether or not 'Big Mac' admits he's the poster child of the steroid era, his career will be best known as one that's tarnished.

As unexpected as his out of the blue admitted steroid usage was, I wonder if he would've came came out if he still held the single-season home run record, as it was shattered just 3 years after it was set by Barry Bonds who hit 73 HR's in 2001. What puzzles me regarding McGwire and other players that have used banned substances, is that they feel they still deserve to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, since they've admitted to their wrongdoing. But what's the difference between those that have admitted to doing them and those who haven't? Both sides are wrong for doing them in the first place. & Whether or not McGwire wants to admit he used them for home run help, they still helped him hit the ball farther than he would have without them.

Either way you look at it, McGwire did help the game in a way, as his home run chase with Sammy Sosa helped revive the game of baseball. The two shared a friendly rivalry and helped the sport get back on it's feet when other sports like football and basketball were atop the list. However, Cooperstown won't look at that as a benefit to help Big Mac punch his ballot. But many are questioning if his admitted steroid usage will help him in terms of Hall of Fame voting. If McGwire plans to be inducted into Cooperstown, not only will he have to battle it out with the voters, but he's going to have to battle with Mr. Canseco as well. In Canseco's book 'Juiced', he tells how he would inject both he and McGwire with steroids inside of the clubhouse's bathroom stalls. McGwire still denies all allegations and says it never happened.

With the truth finally out and off of his chest, McGwire gets set to make his return to the game. This time as a hitting coach for the Red Birds. As he makes his trip around the big leagues, it'll be interesting to see the reaction amongst the fans. In a committee held by the Cardinals yesterday morning, McGwire received an ovation when he was introduced and seen publicly for the first time since his interview. He seems more than ready to return to the game of baseball, but is baseball ready for him? More importantly the Cardinals? Could McGwire's presence be more of a distraction rather than a help as the Cardinals hitting coach? Only time will tell, as the spotlight will be on 12-time All-Star come opening day.

Giants Contribute To Help Out Haiti

With the unfortunate news of the tragedy that has struck Haiti, the San Francisco Giants and MLB are doing their part to help out those in need. After an earthquake that had a magnitude of 7.0 on the rector scale, some 3 million people have been effected, with an estimated death toll of 70,000. & With many celebrities, athletes and sports teams doing their part to help rebuild what's left of Haiti, you can help contribute as well. Something interesting that the Giants are doing to help raise money for the disaster that struck outside Port-au-Prince just a week ago, is auctioning off a variety of different fan friendly activities that are just as fun as they are helpful.

For a starting bid of $1,500 you can help do your part with all proceeds going to the Haitian Relief foundation, and have a good time while doing it. The Giants have set up three different auctions, each with a different story to tell. The listings include: the chance to take 10 pitches off any Giants starting pitcher, a private hitting instruction session with the Kung-Fu Panda himself - Pablo Sandoval and batting coach Hensley Mulens, and last but not least, a private meeting with two-time Cy Young Award winner - Tim Lincecum. There's no doubt these once in a life time opportunities will be stories that you'll be telling your grandchildren for generations. Not to mention it's the perfect chance to actually take a few swings off of a pitcher, for those who have claimed they could hit off a big league hurler if given the chance.

I love the idea the Giants organization has come up with to help the devastation and believe me, if I had the money, I'd put up a few bids myself! Who knows, maybe the lucky fan that wins the private meeting with Tim Lincecum will get the chance to smoke a bowel with him, after his recent run in with the law in which he received a ticket for marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia. I'm just kidding, but all seriousness and joking aside, I suggest all fans of the Giants and or baseball look into this once in a lifetime opportunity. For those of you who are interested, the link is HERE!

London Calling 2010

England to host 49ers & Broncos in 2010 - With both the San Francisco 49ers and Denver Broncos failing to make it to the playoffs this year, all signs point to a brighter future in 2010. & Just a few weeks after the final game of the regular season, it's been confirmed that next year, London will host two of the most storied franchises in all of football on October 31st. Wembley Stadium has been the setting for NFL games the past three years, drawing more than 80,000 fans per game. With past teams such as the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers all having made the trip to play in Britain already, it'll be the first for both newly named franchises.

Although neither team benefits from a long flight halfway across the globe to play a game, the 49ers clearly get the shorter end of the stick, as the game will be substituted as one of San Francisco's home games. The extra game on the road will give them a disadvantage as far as their season schedule goes. It may not sound like too much of a bid deal since both team's will be playing away from their home crowd, but it could play a big factor in the 9ers record considering they only won two games this past season away from Candlestick, opposed to the six they won at home. However, if the 49ers plan on making it to the playoffs next season, they'll have to capitalize on road games, given that was a major weakness in their previous season down the stretch.

Regardless of a home game taken off his teams schedule, 49ers head coach Mike Singletary says his squad will be ready to go without a doubt, and sounded to be more honored of the chance to play across seas, rather than worried. Denver has played seven international exhibition games in the past, but none matching the significance of the match-up against the 49ers. Not only will it be a game with meaning, but it'll be a rematch of Superbowl XXIV. A game in which Joe Montana and company slaughtered John Elway's Broncos by a score of 55-10. The 45 point shellacking of the Broncos went on to be known as one of the most lopsided affairs in Superbowl history.

With one game already prepared, the commissioners office says they plan to explore the possibility of scheduling two games in the UK next season, hoping to expand the interest among international fans and one day possibly putting an expansion team in London. Something Commissioner Goddell said was of "tremendous interest" prior to last season's game in England. What's next on the list you ask? Manchester and Glasgow, Scotland could be potential venues to host NFL games in the mere future. With the aforementioned topic of one less 49er home game, the move to England has got to disappoint those who plan on getting season tickets. I know I'd be mad if I was a season ticket holder. But since I'm not, I love the fact that my team will be seen not only on screens across the U.S., but in front of those halfway across the globe as well.

Changing Lanes

Just days after Pete Carroll's official departure from Southern California to return coaching in the NFL for the Seattle Seahawks, the Trojans football team found their guy. After reports of Jacksonville Jaguars coach and former USC alumni Jack Del Rio broke the news as a potential target, Steve Mariucci's name also began to be brought up. But one name that flew under the radar is Lane Kiffin. The former Tennessee Vols coach who signed a 6-year deal just a season ago, resigns and gets set to head back to SC where he will take over the team's head coaching job. Kiffin served as an assistant coach for the Trojans as both the wide receiver coach & passing coordinator coach (2001-04) and offensive coordinator from (2005-06).

The former understudy of Pete Carroll will now have his opportunity to rebound and transform from what's been a mediocre head coaching career so far into a potential offensive mastermind. There's no doubt Kiffin has the potential of getting the Trojans back on top of the football world as he was the brainchild behind SC's powerful offense when they reigned atop the college rankings. Upon his arrival in Tennessee, Kiffin claimed he was going to make UT the USC of the South and East Coast as he showed players video of former Trojan greats -- Reggie Bush & Carson Palmer. With Bush & Palmer long gone, Kiffin will have to get to know his new players, headlined by Trojan QB Matt Barkley.

As a follower of SC football, I was excited to see if Steve Mariucci was going to land the job, given he's a former 49er coach that also joined the USC staff in 1986 before landing a job with the California Golden Bears. But instead they'll get someone a bit more familiar with the Trojan program, as all eyes will be on Lane Kiffin come next football season. Lane Kiffin, son of one of the most preeminent defensive coordinators in modern football, Monte Kiffin, will be joining his father at SC. Monte was recently hired as the Trojans defensive coordinator and will now be working alongside his son for the first time.

Lane Kiffin's coaching resume includes: Time spent as a staff member for Fresno State (1997-98), offensive line coach at Colorado State (1999), assistant coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars (2000), USC (2001-2006), Oakland Raiders head coach (2007-2008) and head coach of the Tennessee Vols in 2009.

Hands Off Policy

Football coaches at the collegiate level have taken heavy fire lately for hitting and punishing players at extreme levels. Some incidents even costing coaches their jobs. Take Texas Tech football head coach Mike Leach for example. Prior to the 2010 Alamo Bowl in which Texas Tech faced Michigan State, Leach was suspended for disciplining one of his players that recently received a concussion. The concussed player was excused from practice by team doctors. Leach accused the player of faking his injury and ordered him to stand inside of a dark tool shed nearby the team's practice facility and threatened he'd be kicked off the team if he left the shed. After investigation and a failed attempt to get Leach to apologize, the team fired their coach of 10 years. Leach plans to sue Texas Tech for wrongful termination and says he did nothing wrong.

Leach is only one of a handful of coaches that have been accused and fired for putting hands on players as of late. Mark Mangino, the former coach of the Kansas Jayhawks football team and former 2007 Coach of the Year award winner, was let go by the team as recent as December 3rd, after numerous accounts of physically and verbally abusing players. The most recent coach-player incident, just happens to be the biggest. Former USF head coach Jim Leavitt who was fired last week for what officials say he 'struck' a player during halftime of one of the team's games back in November. & Like coach Leach, Leavitt plans to sue the school in hopes of getting his job back. However, it is very unlikely Leavitt will reclaim his job, after refusing to admit he'd done anything wrong, also similar to the Texas Tech - Mike Leach incident. Although reports say the player involved was just 'struck', he claims Levitt grabbed him by the throat and slapped him in the face.

After flipping the script and interfering with the investigation, by telling several coaches and players to change their stories, the odds are against Leavitt. But as usual, we'll let the court sort this one out and await what happens. If Leavitt's job is indeed handed over, the University of Southern Florida will have to hire only it's second football coach ever, as Leavitt has been there since day one when the school's football team debuted in 1995. As children, we were raised to keep our hands to ourselves, but it seems like coaches nowadays have failed to get the memo and live under a different code. With that being said, could all these recent incidents lead to a much more serious and strict policy among coaches and their players?

Griffin's NBA Debut Will Have To Wait

One ballplayer who we all looked forward to seeing prior to the start of this NBA season, was Los Angeles Clipper -- Blake Griffin. After taking the college basketball world by storm last year with the Oklahoma Sooners, Griffin decided to enter the 2009 NBA draft after his Sophomore year. As projected, Griffin went on to be selected as the first overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers, who won the draft lottery just weeks before the draft itself. Given his highly talented ability to play ball and desire to hustle on every play, Griffin needs no introduction to the common basketball fan. However, he might need one next season as he prepares to undergo surgery.

The 2009 Naismith Award winner put on a show during the 2009 Summer League and was named Summer League MVP. But on the last game of the preseason, Griffin suffered a stress fracture in his left knee after coming down from a dunk. Although Griffin wasn't in dire need of surgery, his NBA debut was put on hold. While awaiting recovery, tests revealed Griffen's knee was taking longer than expected to recover. & After what was suspected to be several weeks off, has now turned into an entire year as Griffin will undergo season ending surgery. The operation will put an end to any possibility of him making his long anticipated debut this year, as things can only look brighter next season for the young star.

Although the reports of Griffin needing additional surgery has just recently been confirmed, Griffin is no stranger to injuries, as he's had his fair share of time spent on the bench due to injuries and surgeries in his short but successful college career. Along with a concussion, Griffin has suffered injuries on both knees. & After the league seen what happened to Shaun Livingston's unfortunate injury plagued NBA career, mostly with the Clippers, many are beginning to wonder, 'Are the Clippers cursed?' However, if there is any curse, Portland Trailblazer Greg Oden has to surely be apart of it, given he's been injured a majority of his short career after being selected as the number one overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft. With Griffin out until the 2011 NBA season, any chances of him participating to win the Rookie of the Year award will be ruled out and he'll have to wait until next season if he hopes to secure the hardware.

Notable Awards - During his playing days in both High School and College, Griffin has went on to win such awards as the aforementioned Naismith Award (2009), John Wooden Award (2009), AP Big 12 Player of the Year, named to the McDonald's All-American and Jordan All-American teams, winner of the McDonald's All-American slam dunk contest and named Oklahoma Player of the Year by Gatorade, Tulsa World and The Oklahoman.

There's a New Chief in Town

Weis to KC a wise move? - A big name coach that has flew under the radar with all the recent talk about Pete Carroll, is Charlie Weis' transformation from college football, back to the NFL. After being fired from the head coaching job at Notre Dame, Weis returns to the NFL, this time as a Kansas City Chief. Earlier this week, Weis was hired as the Chiefs offensive coordinator. Someone else who will be joining the team in hope of returning to the playoffs, is Romeo Crennel who will serve as Kansas City's defensive coordinator. Both Weis and Crennel have worked together many times, from their days with the New York Giants (1990-92), New York Jets (1997-99) and most recently their time shared with the New England Patriots (1993-96, 2001-2004). Someone else Weis and Crennel know well, is KC's head coach Todd Haley, who the two worked alongside during their time spent with the Jets. & If the party wasn't already full, the duo will be reunited with General Manager Scott Pioli, from their days with the Patriots.

Altogether, the bunch has formed a winning environment and have been around a winning team for quite some time. But will they be the perfect ingredients to help turn a Chiefs team that's been starving for success into a Championship caliber team? Weis was a flop at Notre Dame, but will returning to the NFL revive his career with a little help from his friends?

Colt McCoy's Unfortunate College Exit

After filling the shoes for Vince Young as the starting quarterback at Texas, Colt McCoy led the team atop the rankings year after year, solidifying himself as not only one of the best QB's in Longhorns history, but in all of college football as well. And after leading the team into the BCS tittle game against #1 ranked Alabama, the table was set for what was projected to be an offensive showdown between McCoy and Crimson Tide Heisman trophy winner Mark Engram. But just 5 plays into the game, McCoy would leave with an injury and have to watch the final college game of his career from the sidelines. McCoy left the game with a pinched nerve in his throwing arm after being tackled by Alabama's Marcell Dareaus.

The injury that hurt the former 2008 AP Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, also hurt his team's chances of becoming Rose Bowl champions, giving Mark Engram and the Crimson Tide a much easier path to be crown champs of college football. In a post-game interview, McCoy confirmed that x-rays proved to be negative and no serious injury took place other than a light sprain. However the numbness in his arm prevented him from re-entering the game, as both his father and doctors advised he remained sidelined. Although McCoy's stellar college career came to a disappointing and early end, there's no question McCoy should have a bright future ahead of him in the NFL. However, his injury has many wondering where he will land in this year's NFL Draft and if the injury will effect what number he is selected at.

ESPN Analyst Mel Kiper Jr. is the man you want to see when it comes to the NFL draft and projecting players as he's done so for years. & After being asked about Colt McCoy for next year's NFL draft, Mel Kiper now has the Longhorn QB projected to be selected in the 3rd round instead of being selected as an early 2nd rounder, saying the injury should be enough to scare off teams that are seeking a young quarterback. But if that's the case, Oklahoma's Sam Bradford has got to be projected around the same time, if not later, given he underwent a much more serious injury not once, but twice early on in the season. As reported today, the prognosis on McCoy's throwing arm is good, which should be fair enough news for the McCoy family. & If it's not, the news of him proposing to his girlfriend just days ago on the screen of Texas Memorial Stadium should be just as exciting as him winning the Heisman, as he failed to win it in back-t0-back years, coming up short with a distant third place in votes one year and second the year before.

As McCoy begins to pursue his career in the NFL and sooner than later start a family, we wish him all the luck. Hook'em Horns!

Agent-0 Suspended On Gun Charges

Over the past few seasons, Gilbert Arenas has been known throughout the NBA as one of the league's most premiere ballplayers. However his foul play off the court and in the locker room has caused quite a stir. Just before the new year approached, we received word that the Washington Wizards guard had admitted to storing unloaded firearms in his locker at the Verizon Center, where the Wizards play their home games. The reason however, is one that's been juggled around and changed numerous times. Such explanations have reached the surface as Arenas first told officials the guns were in his locker to try and keep them away from his children at home. But now it's been reported that he and Wizards teammate Javaris Crittenton had got into an argument over gambling debts on Christmas Eve. It's also been reported that Crittenton had an unloaded gun of his own in his locker.

As serious as the matter is, Arenas and fellow teammates have joked about the matter time and time again. When being asked about it in a post game interview, Arenas said he didn't think he was doing anything wrong since the guns were unloaded. Something else Arenas doesn't know, is that not only did he violate NBA rules against bringing firearms into an arena, but he also violated D.C. ordinances as well. The fact that Arenas broke the law is one thing, but given he did it in the nation's capital, his punishment could be that much more crucial when it's all said and done. NBA Commissioner David Stern had planned on letting the legal process play out before disciplining Arenas, but Stern was forced to react a lot sooner when Gilbert and fellow teammates made a joke about the whole thing during pregame introductions. As players began to surround Arenas, he then pretended to shoot them with guns made from his fingers.

After the incident, it was official that the NBA had suspended Arenas indefinitely without pay until its investigation is complete. The day Arenas was suspended also happened to be his 28th birthday. How disappointing it must be for both Arenas and team ownership, considering Gilbert missed all of last season and big things were expected from him and the team this season. Instead, the Wizards find themselves near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a 12-24 record. Coincidentally, the Wizards were named the Bullets once upon a time, until league officials declared the name sounded a bit violent. Also, revolving his gun charges, Arenas has been better known throughout the league as Agent-0. A nickname he earned by wearing the #0 on his jersey. But has he taken his nickname a bit too seriously perhaps? There's no telling what was going through Arenas' head at the time, but it's almost certain that he regrets the incident ever happened.

As players now begin to get pummeled with questions by detectives, it'll be interesting to see what new information is found, if any. The latest aside from the gun fiasco, is that the Wizard teammates have been known for playing pranks on one another in the past. Pranks that go as far as shitting in other player's shoes, another joke in which Arenas is guilty for. But all joking aside, & with gambling most likely the cause, it's only a matter of time before the league as a whole begins to consider banning gambling. The New Jersey Nets have already made sure such problems don't plague their team as they've outlawed gambling. Will other teams begin to follow in the Nets' footsteps?

IT'S OFFICIAL x CARROLL RETURNS TO NFL

As brought up in one of my recent posts (Let The Firing Begin! x Carroll to Seattle?), the rumors are true. And just days after reports of Carroll returning to the NFL took the sporting world by storm, it's official. Pete Carroll will take over a Seattle team that placed third in the NFC West standings this past season with a record of 5 wins and 11 losses. Upon his arrival in Seattle, Carroll will become the 8th head coach in the team's history. Carroll brings with him an already experienced mindset as he's no stranger to the NFL environment, when he coached 4 years with the New York Jets and New England Patriots from 1994-99. He also brings with him a resume filled with college championships. & Although he was a .500 coach at best in the NFL, finishing with a record of 33-31, it'll be interesting to see whether or not he'll be able to evolve into a Superbowl caliber coach in the NFL now that he's had a taste of winning at the college level.

Carroll's offensive coordinator at SC will also head to Seattle with him, as the two should have no problem gelling together. The question mark now hovering USC, is what's in store for the school's future? The move also has everyone asking, 'Who will now coach one of the top football programs in the country?' If USC was to stick to it's college roots, they would most likely turn to Oregon State coach Mike Riley. However it's been reported that Riley has signed a multi-year deal that would result in him remaining the coach of the Beavers. If SC decides to go after an NFL coach, Jacksonville Jaguars head coach and former All-American linebacker for the USC Trojan's - Jack Del Rio could be a possible fit for the job.

There's no doubt the departure of Carroll leaving the program will have many players rethinking whether or not they want to play for SC, but will his absence mean the fallout of Southern California football?

Throwback Thursday x The Big Unit Retires

After winning his 300th career game last season with the San Francisco Giants, Randy Johnson decides it's time to hang up the cleats once and for all. The 6-foot-10 pitcher dubbed the nickname "The Big Unit", was just as intimidating off the field as he was on the mound. However, aside from his large frame and ability to throw a hard fastball in the high 90's to mid 100's was the kindhearted personality Johnson had as he gave much thanks to his teammates for his career success. No pitcher had more success in the early 2000's than Mr. Johnson.

Achievements & Awards - Randy Johnson is a walking milestone as he ranks among one of the greatest hurlers in terms of where he stands all-time in select pitching categories. Throughout his 22-year career plagued by numerous surgery laden injuries, Johnson still managed to win 303 games, becoming the 24th pitcher in Major League history to exceed the 300 win plateau. The 10-time all-star selectee ranks No. 1 all-time in Stikeouts per 9 Innings Pitched with 10.61, No. 2 in Strikeouts with 4,875 topped only by Nolan Ryan's 5,714 K's, No. 2 in Cy Young awards with 5 behind only Roger Clemens who won the award 7 times, and 22nd in wins with the aforementioned 303 career victories. 4 of Johnson's 5 Cy Young awards came in consecutive years from 1999-2002. Johnson also has 2 no-hitters under his belt, including 1 perfect game in which he pitched against the Braves at Turner Field on May 18, 2004.

The Teams - The Big Unit served for 6 different teams before his short 1-year stint with the Giants last season. But before pitching in his native bay area, Johnson broke into the Majors with the Montreal Expos where he played his first season and won his first game in 1988. The same exact franchise Johnson won his 300th career game against, the recently named Washington Nationals. Johnson was then traded to Seattle in May of 1989 where he pitched for nine long years until being dealt to Houston just before the 1998 Trade Deadline. Then was the beginning of Johnson's two stints in which he served as an Arizona Diamondback and where he thrived most (1999-2004 and 2007-08). The Big Unit even sported the pinstripes in 2005-06 as a New York Yankee. Although the cap Johnson will be wearing when inducted into Hall of Fame is unknown as of right now, it's a no brainer that he will and should be elected into Cooperstown on the first ballot when he's eligible in 2015.

In my opinion, I'd have to say Johnson goes into the Hall as an Arizona Diamondback. Not only was he the face of the franchise during their World Series run in 2001, but the amount of success he had as quickly and as consistent with a new team, it makes it that much more reasonable. Not to mention he'd be the first player to be honored by the franchise in Cooperstown. As one baseball great steps away from the game, it allows room for a future star to step forward. But it's unlikely we'll see another pitcher like Randy Johnson as many are speculating to be possibly the last pitcher in the 300 win club.

The Best Fight That Never Happened?

Just when you thought the sport of Boxing was ready to make a comeback with what would potentially the biggest fight of the year, the match between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather is called off. After nearly a year in the making and tons of hype later, the fight that was at one point bound to happen may end up never happening at all. Just weeks ago, both fighters had reportedly agreed to fight one another with everything already planned out, including the date (March 13, 2010), the venue (MGM Grand Las Vegas) and even the price ($50 million split up front). But regardless of the pay check, both camps have found something to disagree on -- the testing for banned substances.

Mayweather and his camp has decided they wanted to use Olympic style drug testing, thus meaning blood would be drawn from each fighter and tested by the United States Anti-Doping Agency, rather than a regular drug test simply taken through urine samples. Pacquiao and his camp refused to provide the samples and would only be willing to allow blood to be taken from their fighter at least 30 days before the fight date as well as immediately after the bout. Trainer Freddie Roach however said he'd be willing to allow blood samples from his fighter if there was a cut-off date for the blood testing or at least one week before the fight. But with all the debate, comes a change of opponent as Pacquiao will now fight Paul Malignaggi instead.

The thought of Pacquiao-Mayweather has had Boxing enthusiast drooling for quite some time. But now, both critics and fans alike have begun to question whether or not Mayweather is actually willing to fight the one they call Pac-Man. & If you ask me, my opinion is no different. As great of a fighter Mayweather is, I think he's scared shit-less of facing Pacquiao in the ring. Not only does he not want his undefeated record to flourish, but at the same time he doesn't want to prove that he's scared to fight, which is why he chose the Olympic drug testing as an easy way out. For a fighter that's never once considered using the Olympic drug tests like Mayweather, I find it a little odd that he all of a sudden wants to use it. & Given that Roach and the Pacquiao camp thinks the blood testing will weaken their fighter for physical or religious purposes, I don't blame them for turning down the offer. If 'Money Mayweather' is truly the best pound for pound fighter in the world, he'll prove it by doing whatever it is necessary to get the fight rescheduled for a second time.

If not, it looks like we'll continue to hear and see 'Pretty Boy Floyd' on TMZ beefing it with rapper Rick Ross who according to reporters punked Mayweather who ended up being the bigger man by walking away. Then again we can always look forward to seeing him host WWE's Monday Night Raw. I'm sure he'll be willing to set up a boxing match with John Cena without the crazy blood testing...

Rex Ryan Part II x What December woes?

*Tisk Tisk* - Since his team barely creeped their way into the playoffs, Rex Ryan has become the brunt of a joke as he continues to fail at getting the memo. In a New York Jets press conference on Thursday, Ryan took the podium to answer questions. After being asked what he thought about being the biggest underdogs in the playoffs, Ryan replied, "Biggest underdogs?, I wasn't aware of that. I think we should be the favorites to win the whole tournament." WRONG! Coach, I like your confidence heading into Saturday's game against Cincy, but since you declared your team dead and out of playoff contention in week 15, the only thing you should be favored for is the award for the biggest clown of the league.

I can't wait 'til his press conference after the Bengals actually put their starting squad on the field tomorrow night in Cincinnati. Bengals QB Carson Palmer hasn't had as much success as he had in the first half of the season, but running-back Cedrick Benson should be plenty for the Jets stellar defense to deal with. & For the Bengals sake, let's hope Chad Ochocinco is as healthy as he says he is. Otherwise they'll have to prey the defense comes out guns blazing. The Jets own the series record over Cincinnati, 14 games to 7, with New York having won 7 of the last 8 meetings. But Ocho & friends plans to put an end to all of that.

How 'bout them Cowboys!? - Since the mid-90's, the Dallas Cowboys have been known for being one of the worst teams in the month of December and in the playoffs, given they haven't gotten passed the first round since Troy Aikman served as the starting QB. However, this season the 'Boys have sang a different tone in the month of December. QB Tony Romo has played some of his best ball in a Cowboys uniform the past few weeks, as he helped the team win back-to-back games in the month of December for the first time in six years. & If that wasn't enough, they also won last week against the same team they'll be facing tomorrow -- the Philadelphia Eagles. But unlike the 24-0 beating the Eagles received last week, both teams will be playing for their playoff lives this time around instead of home-field advantage and a division crown. A little something else that might be on the line, is Wade Phillips' future in the Big D.

Let The Firing Begin! x Carroll to Seattle?

The end of the regular season usually means 'playoffs!' But for some it means firing those who failed to get the job done. And no job is to be blamed more than that of the coaches. Just days after week 17 of the NFL's regular season schedule, the unemployment hand comes out slappin'. Coaches that have already began cleaning out their desks include; Jim Zorn who was fired by the Washington Redskins, Buffalo Bills interim head coach Perry Fewell who took the job over from Dick Jauron in November, and coach Jim Mora who was shockingly fired as recent as today by the Seattle Seahawks. However, some coaches will live to see another day. Oakland Raiders coach Tom Cable who is expected to be fired after his meeting with owner Al Davis next week, still believes he did enough to earn his job back for next season. It looks like we'll have to wait to find out what Davis thinks.

The biggest shocker of them all has to be the firing of Seattle's Jim Mora. After his short 1-year tenure with Seattle in which his Seahawks finished with a record of 5-11, the job is now available. Rumor has it Seattle already has someone in mind. Reports of USC's Pete Carroll has spread throughout ESPN and other sports sites like a virus as he's been targeted to fill the position in place of Mora. & Like many, I've been waiting for the return of Pete Carroll to the NFL, but at the same time it would be dreadful if Carroll left SC. As a Trojan fan I would hate to see Carroll coach elsewhere, especially if he were to coach a division rival of my beloved 49ers. But if Carroll was to depart from SC, not only would he leave a legacy behind, but he'd leave at a perfect time given USC has been under investigation lately for numerous incidents going on throughout the school's athletic department. Most recently those that have involved superstar players -- OJ Mayo and Reggie Bush.

For now, the talks of Pete Carroll potentially heading to the Emerald City remains that, talk. But for SC, the thought alone of Carroll possibly leaving calls for precaution. Oregon State coach Mike Riley would be next on the Trojans list to coach the school's football program if Carroll decides to coach in the NFL. Mora who was disappointed about his early firing is still owed $12 million dollars by the Seahawks. Mora becomes the first coach in Seahawks history to be let go after just one season with the team. & Although he's now jobless, he could easily be an attractive candidate for a job as a defensive coordinator somewhere else. With Mike Shanahan no longer on the market seeking a job now that he's landed a 5-year deal with the Washington Redskins, coach Mora will join a Superbowl studded class of coaches still available. A market that remains a hot one with big names, such as Brian Billick who led Baltimore to a Superbowl in 2000 and Bill Cowher who says he's ready to return to the NFL after leaving behind a Superbowl season with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2005.

Ryan & The Jets Take The Easy Route

After the most unlikely of scenarios, the New York Jets take the easy route to the playoffs by defeating teams that were playing for virtually nothing and without their star players. After putting an end to the Manning-less Colts' potential undefeated season just two weeks ago, New York went on to beat the Cincinnati Bengals, 37-0. After losing at home to the Falcons just 3 weeks ago, Jets head coach Rex Ryan said his team was no longer alive to make the playoffs. But now he's thinking otherwise by saying, "No one wants to face us in the playoffs, we're a very dangerous team." Yeah, way to show confidence in your squad coach...

Ryan also gave lots of credit to his struggling rookie quarterback - Mark Sanchez for getting the Jets to the promise land. When instead, it was a combination of the Jets defense and their deadly running game that really got them to the playoffs. Before you declare Ryan a genius, consider this: the two teams the Jets beat to make it to the playoffs have already clinched playoff berth's and sat most of their starters and key players to avoid injury and keep healthy for the postseason. But whether or not the Jets got lucky, they're in the playoffs no doubt. A word of advice for Rex Ryan and his boys, don't plan on any teams sitting their starters now that it's playoff time.

Blame it on the Turf x Down goes Welker

New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick hasn't been one known for complaining, but his reasoning for losing both the game and his star wide-receiver to injury is a bit hysterical. Belichick blamed Welker's injury on the Reliant Field turf, the same home turf that the Houston Texans plan on 8 games a year. I find it a bit funny when the truth is Belichick had no business putting Welker out there on the field in the first place. Welker's injury is the exact reason why you don't take any chances leaving your star players in the game when you've already clinched a playoff spot.

Instead, the Patriots will be without their leading receiver in this week's playoff match-up against Baltimore. Welker left the game during the Patriots' first drive of the game in the first quarter with a torn MCL and ACL after trying to juke a defender. An injury that will keep him out for the remainder of the season and possibly all of next season depending on his recovery. Not only did the season pass before Welker's eyes, but I'm sure it left coach Belichick second guessing considering a key cog in his team's offense will no longer be available. Instead, wide-out Randy Moss will have a heavy load to carry in the passing game. Welker's speed will be the one thing missed most about his presence. His absence will allow someone else to step up, but they'll have some big shoes to fill.

Also worth mentioning, is that before leaving the game with an injury, Welker tied Herman Moore for the second-most receptions in a single NFL season (123). Welker's injury won't doom the team's chances completely, but it's certainly something that will be very hard to overcome.

49ers x Week 17 x Records set in Stone

On a day that seen both the Rams and 49ers almost kick more punts (20) than score points in the first half, the 49ers would come out victorious in what would be the final game of the regular season. With the Rams playing for nothing other than a potential first overall pick in next year's draft with a loss, the 49ers on the other hand had a winning season at stake. With the win, the 49ers improve to 8-8 and complete their first non-losing season since 2002. But before the game was officially over, the top two offensive players on San Francisco's offense had historic days.

49er Tight-End Vernon Davis finished the day with 6 catches for 89 yards and 1 touchdown. The lone touchdown put Vernon Davis atop the record books with San Diego Chargers' Antonio Gates for most touchdown catches in a single season by a tight-end, with 13. The 73-yard bomb from Alex Smith to Vernon Davis also marked the longest play and touchdown of the year for the 49er offense. It also just happened to be the longest reception of Davis' career. After VD's tied milestone, San Francisco running-back Frank Gore tied a long-standing franchise mark held by Joe Perry for most 100-yard games. Both Gore and Perry share the record with 20 career 100-yards games. Gore totaled 107 rushing yards to go along with 2 rushing touchdowns, giving him a career high 13 on the year.

Aside from the records set in the second half, neither team put up much of an offensive show in the first half, with San Francisco logging a season-low 52 first-half yards. However, they would finish the game with 329 total yards on offense. & Similar to last week, the defense put in work by getting to Rams quarterbacks Keith Null and Kyle Boller. Harassing him for a total of 8 sacks, highlighted by the 3.5 sacks defensive-end Justin Smith put up himself. The poor performance on the field by the Rams led to a displeased St. Louis crowd. The frustration was easily detected amongst the St. Louis faithful as they watched their team fall for the 15th time this season.


However, there was a brief applause as 49er wide-receiver and long time Rams great - Isaac Bruce took the field for the final play of his illustrious career. Even on the opposite side of the field, Bruce received an ovation larger than the one the team the Rams put on the field got. But it wasn't long before the chants of 'Bruuuce' transformed into 'Booo's'. The future Hall of Famer who was a fan favorite in St. Louis, ranks 2nd all-time in receiving yards, only behind the great Jerry Rice.

As the 49ers' season ends on a disappointing note not making it to the playoffs for yet another year, not all hope is lost for next year as Alex Smith has shown that he could lead this team to the playoffs if given another chance. One thing this 2009 San Francisco team failed to do, was win games on the road as they finished the season 2-6 away from Candle Stick Park. Both wins coming against division rivals Arizona and St. Louis during the first game of the season and the last. But as the season comes to an end, a new year brings new opportunity. With that being said, Cheers to a better season in 2010. Go 9ers!

Other 49er Notables: 49er QB Alex Smith finished the day with 222 passing yards and 1 touchdown on 17 of 28 attempts. 49er Full-Back Moran Norris scored his first career touchdown on a 1-yard run in the 3rd quarter.