Soundbytes Of The Decade - #5 Rafael Palmeiro and Mark McGwire

Finally, we've reached the top five soundbytes of the decade. Our next installment takes us back to March 17, 2005, a date which will live in infamy among baseball fans. Coming off the heels of rampant accusations pushed forward by former slugger Jose Canseco, several current MLB players and executives were called before Congress. Many baseball purists hoped articulate stars of the game like Mark McGwire and Rafael Palmeiro would beat back the mounting controversy.

However, instead of squashing the debate about steroids in baseball, the comments made by Palmeiro and McGwire would forever tarnish their own legacy, and the legacy of an entire era. Take it away guys...

The aftermath of these short soundbytes would forever change the game. Only days later, Rafael Palmeiro tested positive for steroids, proving himself to be a fraud, and being exiled from the game. Since Mark McGwire's performance in these hearings, he has not been elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, despite at one time holding baseball's most prestigious record and hitting 583 career home runs. Other players like Roger Clemens, Sammy Sosa, Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz have since been disgraced by being linked to steroids. The entire steroids era in baseball has been perhaps the most complex, controversial issue of our generation in sports (tease alert) and these hearings represented the beginning of the end of baseball's innocence.

Join us for the #4 Soundbyte of the Decade where one little word cemented a coach's legacy as one of the all-time great quote machines!

Hail To The... Cheaters??

Which way are the winds blowing in Ann Arbor for you Rich??

It doesn't take a meteorologist to tell you that the winds are swirling against Rich Rodriguez in Maize and Blue country. Michigan football prides itself on a lot of things: the tradition, the Big House, Bo, national championships, Heisman winners... and having a clean program. When have you ever heard of any sort of controversy, rules violation, or unrest up north before the vaunted arrival of RichRod. You haven't because Michigan football has never had major NCAA rules violations.

My, how times have changed.

The latest saga from Ann Arbor is that players have anonymously gone to the Detroit Free Press complaining about possible NCAA rules violations. The allegations center around players having to spend ungodly amounts of time relating to football activities, shattering NCAA limits for hours allowed during a given day (4 in season) and week (20 in season, 8 out). Of course, every team in the nation violates these rules, let's not kid ourselves to think that kids at D-I powerhouses are there to get an education. But, making kids spend 12 hours a day in the program, and breaking the rules to the extent of two to three times the limit is extreme.

But, the Michigan Workin' Overtimegate (can anyone out there think of a better ___gate name? please?) controversy is stunning because current players in the program are exposing their head coach to the public anonymously. Grasp your mind around this.

Players for a major D-I program... are exposing their own head coach... for major NCAA rules violations.

Major. NCAA. Rules. Violations.

We're talking losses of scholarships, probation... this isn't a $5 lunch at Arby's violation, or a discounted pair of sneakers, this is serious stuff. And the players outing their head coach know it. Have we ever seen anything like the mutiny happening at Michigan? These players aren't just throwing their head coach under the bus, but the entire program and heck, the whole state! The consensus is that these players might be Lloyd Carr recruits unhappy with RichRod, but to absolutely betray the new HC is astounding, head-scratching if you will.

Nothing about the RichRod Era at Michigan has seemed right from the beginning. Let's look at the facts:

-Ugly departure from West Virginia involving paying back $1.5 Million dollars to the school in a court settlement.

-A record of 3-9 in his first season. The worst record in Michigan football history. The first year not in a bowl game in 33 years.

-Lost out on star QB recruit Terrelle Pryor... to archrival Ohio State

-Starting OL Justin Boren transfered... to Ohio State. Willingly. Boren's father played for Bo Schembechler. Nice endorsement for you Rich!

-Oh, and RichRod is not a "Michigan Man", whatever that means.

Compare this scenario to Jim Tressel's tenure at Ohio State. In a sense, Tressel is the anti-RichRod. He has an impeccable off-field reputation, always brings in the big recruits, keeps the program clean, always has the full support of the players and the program, wins games and titles, and beats Michigan. Tressel's 7-1 against the Wolverines.

Tressel didn't exactly inherit a juggernaut from John Cooper in 2001 either. The Buckeyes went 7-5 in Tressel's first season and lost to South Carolina in the Outback Bowl. But, in his 2nd season, he won a National Championship. 5 BCS appearences, including 2 losses in the national title game later, and Tressel's Ohio State program is regarded as one of the elites in the country. Sure, Ohio St and the Big 10 gets a bad rap from the SEC/USC-mad media, but nobody can question Tressel's credentials.

And to an extent, RichRod was in that category. He led West Virginia to national prominence, a Sugar Bowl win, and a should've been national title game appearance in 2007 before a choke job versus Pitt. But, his Michigan tenure has been nothing short of a train wreck. Does anyone think his team can win the National Title this year, let alone approach .500? Shoot, they might even lose to Notre Dame, how pathetic would that be!

He remains defiant that his program hasn't committed any violations. He was quoted this morning saying, "we comply by the rules" and also appeared choked up at his press conference... PUH-LEASE Rich! I've seen better acting from the cast of The Hills and Heidi and Spencer than that performance. If you've seen any of the press conference, this is a man who appears to be in trouble. Now a former player, Tony Clemons, is talking about approaching the NCAA about the violations and allegations to confirm them.

The only bright light for Michigan is that he has another Top 10 recruiting class coming to Ann Arbor. Oh, and he always performs much better in his second year at a school with his spread offense, at least that's what we're told.

But make no mistake, the walls are closing in on RichRod at Michigan. He was an outsider to begin with, and he's now soiled their pristine program's reputation and brought controversy to Ann Arbor. A Big 10 and school investigation is underway. He's already lost games, recruits, and shockingly transfers to eternal rivals Ohio State. Seconds ago, Detroit Free Press columnist Drew Sharp called him a "defeated man" on SportsCenter.

He coached Michigan to their worst season in history. That wasn't expected from the man that was supposed to bring Michigan back to their prominent place as the winningest team in college football history. RichRod was supposed to bring Michigan football into the 21st Century with a spread offense, reclaim the Big 10, and beat Ohio State. He was hailed as a savior of a program, riding into town as a hero.

Instead, something very different is transpiring at Michigan.

The winds are shifting in Ann Arbor, and they might just blow Rich Rodriguez out of town, sooner rather than later.

Check back this week at RSS for our College Football Preview featuring the YCS and our Heisman Watch. And, also look for our Top 5 Soundbytes of the Decade coming this week!

Soundbytes Of The Decade - #6 Herm Edwards

In the middle of the 2002 season, the New York Jets were mired with a record of 2-5. After an October loss to the Cleveland Browns, coach Herman Edwards had to face the press. Herm had been very successful in his first year taking the Jets to the playoffs after a 10-6 season. However, out of an innocent little press conference of a 2nd year head coach with a struggling team, one of sports' most famous sayings of all-time was born.

You play to win the game.

It's so simple, yet complex.

Why do we play sports?

Fun? Leisure? Exercise? Socializing? Not in Herm's world. You play to win.

That one sentence spurred the Jets to another playoff appearance in 2002. It made Herm Edwards a national star (and spawned his current ESPN career). Oh, and guess what Herm Edwards' book about life lessons is called... well this clip might be of some assistance (sorry for the crappy BDSSP music/graphics). Teach us o wise one...

Tune in next time as we creep into our Top 5 Soundbytes of the Decade! We'll go from comedy to tragedy, well at least for one sport and its stars. Here's a hint... be careful what you say, because it might come back to bite you, pretty hard.

Soundbytes Of The Decade - #7 Terrell Owens

Get your popcorn ready, because it's our #7 Soundbyte of the Decade. Terrell Owens had already done a lot in the years leading up to the 2008 playoffs. He had autographed a ball during a game with a Sharpie hidden in his sock. He had ailienated quarterbacks from San Francisco, to Philadelphia, to Dallas. He'd done sit ups in his driveway. You name the weird stunt performed to draw more attention to oneself, TO had done it. Over the decade, TO became one of the most polarizing, recognizable, controversial figures in sports.

But nothing he'd done before in the 2000s quite lived up to his postgame news conference after the Cowboys had been beaten by the New York Giants. The Cowboys were the #1 seed in the NFC, 13-3, but were knocked around by the more physical Giants in the 21-17 upset. Although TO wasn't a shining star on the field, he saved his greatest performance to defend his quarterback, Tony Romo.

Romo had taken his share of criticism leading up to the game for vacationing with Jessica Simpson and Jason Witten in Mexico during the team's bye week. And, rather than wait for the firestorm of second-guessing Romo's play, TO launched a preemptive strike against the media. While it might not be the most emotional moment in sports history (one of the many reasons Best Damn Sports Show is no longer on tv), it was one of the most tear-jerking, if not puzzling soundbytes of the decade. So go ahead TO, show us some love for someone, other than yourself that is...

Join us for our next stop in the countdown, as we go back to the pros for an educational lesson about why we all play the sports that we love! See you next time!

EPL Picks - Week 3

This week in English football, the headlines were dominated by the outbreak of violence in the Carling Cup game between eternal rivals Millwall and West Ham United. One of the worst nights of violence in recent memory included a stabbing, many arrests, and several pitch invasions. Check out an interesting read about the history of the rivalry here. This stuff makes the Malice in the Palace look like a playground spat and stateside rivalries look like love feasts. Hooliganism and fan violence have been greatly reduced in England in the past 20 years, but the events of this past week have brought the issue back to light. Some pundits believe that the violence could cost England's chances of hosting the 2018 World Cup. That's an extreme overreaction, but it is a sign that firms and violence are still a problem that needs addressed in the beautiful game worldwide, not just in England. Now onto the Week 3 EPL picks.

Last Week's Results:

Mr. Yoder I: 7-2-1 22 pts

Mr. Yoder II: 6-3-1 19 pts

Dr. Yoder: 6-3-1 19 pts

Total After Week 2:

Mr. Yoder II: 17-8-1 52 pts

Mr. Yoder I: 17-8-1 52 pts

Dr. Yoder: 15-10-1 46 pts

Burnley (2-1-0) @ Chelsea (3-0-0)

I'll bet nobody thought that Burnley would have 6 points after 3 games, and I'll bet nobody thinks they can win at Stamford Bridge Saturday (ESPN2). Burnley has exceeded expectations already, but Chelsea has looked great under Ancelotti and his diamond formation in the midfield. Last week at Fulham, Nicolas Anelka & Didier Drogba (right) combined as well as I've seen in Chelsea uniforms. If they play well together, and the midfield continues to click, it could be another banner year for the Blues.

Y1: Chelsea Y2: Chelsea Doc: Chelsea

Birmingham (1-1-1) @ Tottenham (3-0-0) @

Speaking of banner years, Tottenham Hotspur is off to a great start under Sir Harry. Of course, credit can go to Bill Simmons for finally getting on the soccer/EPL/Spurs bandwagon. Few teams can match the striking depth that Spurs have with Crouch, Keane, Defoe, and Pavlyuchenko. However, it's been the midfield steel of Wilson Palacios that has really impressed. B-Ham doesn't look like scoring a lot of goals this season, which could be a problem in keeping them up. Spurs in a romp.

Y1: Spurs Y2: Spurs Doc: Spurs

West Ham (1-1-0) @ Blackburn (0-2-0)

Speaking of teams in trouble, Blackburn could be in for a very, very long season. Sam Allardyce has done well in the past with teams that aren't exactly Champions League quality. However, this current crop of Rovers might be near the bottom of the barrel. West Ham's story last week was the brilliance and insanity of Carlton Cole in a home loss to Spurs. Their story this week was one of the worst nights of violence in recent English football with mass fighting and craziness at Upton Park (left) against eternal rivals Milwall in the Carling Cup. The majority thinks they'll be able to put it back together on the pitch this week.

Y1: West Ham Y2: Blackburn Doc: West Ham

Liverpool (1-2-0) @ Bolton (0-2-0)

Well, this is a must win game for Liverpool. Thank goodness they're playing a Bolton team that has played very poorly in the new campaign. Then again, with things going the way they are at Anfield this season, I wouldn't be surprised to see a Lucas OG/Red Card/Penalty cost Liverpool at least 2 points. As a Reds fan, I'm already looking forward to the Champions League, which isn't promising to finally bring home that 19th League title. Xabi Alonso ain't walkin through that door folks...

Y1: L'Pool Y2: Liverpool Doc: Liverpool

Sunderland (2-1-0) @ Stoke City (1-1-1)

This game may be one of the most compelling this weekend from a competitive standpoint. The Britannia is always a tough place to play, and with the double signings of Huth and Tuncay, Stoke City's squad will be greatly enhanced. Great work by Tony Pulis. Sundy has played well so far with Bent and Jones both providing goals to win games. They could be a top 10 team if Steve Bruce can add a couple more pieces. This one really could go either way, us Yoders are split.

Y1: Stoke Y2: Sunderland Doc: Sunderland

Hull City (1-2-0) @ Wolves (1-2-0)

Seeing our boy Jozy Altidore (right) make such an impact in his EPL debut gave me a warm, fuzzy, proud to be an American feeling. Lee Greenwood songs were going off in my head, I set off fireworks in my apartment, it was a great time! Seriously though, if Ghilas, Altidore, and Geovanni can provide the goals, Hull just might stay up again. Wolves have not been as impressive as I anticipated... the Yoder curse strikes again I guess. Hull's momentum might see them take the day, I could see a draw though.

Y1: Hull Y2: Wolves Doc: Hull

Arsenal (2-0-0) @ Manchester Utd (2-1-0)

Our first Big 4 encounter this season sees the Gunners and United clash at Old Trafford in the Game of the Week. On form alone, Arsenal would be the pick after dispatching of Celtic in the CL and scoring 10 goals in their first 2 EPL games. United finally found their goal-scoring boots in the 2nd half at Wigan last week, even Michael Owen got in on the action! If Arsenal can pull off the win, they might really be a threat this season with the youngsters leading the way. I've climbed aboard the Gunners bandwagon after picking them 7th this season (whoops!), while Mr. Yoder 2 and Doc go with United at the Theater of Dreams.

Y1: Arsenal Y2: Man U Doc: Man U

Manchester City (2-0-0) @ Portsmouth (0-3-0)

Everything is turning up roses for Manchester City. They finally got Joleon Lescott to partner Kolo Toure in the center of defense (and ditch perennial red card Richard Dunne), Adebayor is scoring goals, and they get to play Pompey to continue the momentum! Really, there's no way any of us can see Portsmouth winning this game. This might look more like a Cup game between an EPL team and a League One side, that's how bad Pompey have looked this season. It'll be at least a 3-0 win for City.

Y1: Man City Y2: Man City Doc: Man City

Wigan (1-2-0) @ Everton (0-2-0)

Well, at least Wigan will have their Week 1 victory over Aston Villa! They went toe-to-toe with United for 6 rounds last weekend, but then ended up getting knocked down 5 times in a 2nd half thrashing. At least their season hasn't been as bad as Everton's. First they give up 6 goals to Arsenal, then they finally let go of Joleon Lescott, then they lose at Burnley. They are another Merseyside team that really needs a win this weekend. Doc stays on the Wigan bandwagon, while the Yoder Bros. believe in David Moyes to right the ship.

Y1: Everton Y2: Everton Doc: Wigan

Fulham (1-1-0) @ Aston Villa (1-1-0)

This Sunday encounter is another one that could go either way. Fulham is always a tough out, but it will all depend on which Aston Villa team shows up. Will it be the team that dominated at Anfield? Or the one that got knocked out of the Europa League by Rapid Vienna? The key will be former Hammer captain Nigel Reo-Coker (left). If he returns to his favored midfield role permanently, he can fill Gareth Barry's shoes. This game could tell us a lot about each team's futures this season. It should be a good one.

Y1: Aston Villa Y2: Fulham Doc: Fulham

What Are The Odds - AFC/NFC South Preview

We conclude our What Are The Odds NFL Preview with a trip down South... well and to Indianapolis for a preview of the AFC & NFC South divisions. Will the Colts have one last run at glory? Who will rise from the ashes this year in the South? All I know is, as a Saints fan, I can't be happier to know I won't be seeing above image again. That's CB Jason David (thankfully shown the door this preseason) getting burned at Indy in his first game in 2007, a game I was in attendance, live and in person, it was closer than that 41-10 score... I'm still trying to get over it.

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts - Over/Under 10 Wins

Y1: Well, with the Dungy Era over, and Peyton Manning the last of the Big 3 left, this is certainly a different Colts team. The question has to be: is their window finally closing? I think it is, but it won't be shut just yet this season. They'll have just enough on D to get by, provided Bob Sanders stays healthy. But there's just enough weird stuff surrounding this franchise (OC Tom Moore coming and going) to tell me that the Colts aura is slipping. I'll push at 10, as they'll be pipped by Tennessee for South supremacy. PUSH 10

Y2: Their Super Bowl window may be closing, but I still believe they're the class of the AFC South. Former Buckeye Anthony Gonzalez is poised for a breakout season replacing Marvin Harrison as a starter. The loss of Tony Dungy will also be softened by Jim Caldwell, who seems to have much of the trademark demeanor of his predecessor. Agreed the defense will be just good enough, so I'll give them a little more credit than the 10 win line. OVER 10

Tennessee Titans - Over/Under 9 Wins

The Titans are a mystery to me for this season. Sure, they were great last year, but can they keep it up for a second year... with Kerry Collins back at QB? Smash and Dash (right) should still be able to run the ball, Keith Bulluck and the D should be stout once again, and Jeff Fisher remains one of the best coaches in the league. They'll be over 9 and compete for the division title again.OVER 9

I don't think they're a mystery, but there's no way they'll repeat the success of last season. They lost their best defensive player in Albert Haynesworth and their Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz. The Titans running game should be as stout as ever though with LenDale White getting off the Tequila Train and the explosive Chris Johnson still in the mix. I'm tempted to say push, but because of the strength of their run game, I'll give them 10 wins and a wild card birth. OVER 9

Jacksonville Jaguars - Over/Under 8.5 Wins

The Jags are coming down this year. MoJo is going to suffer without Fred Taylor backing him up and David Garrard didn't exactly light the world on fire last year. Plus, the team's #1 receiver, Matt Jones, is gone. Coach Jack Del Rio could be finally wearing out his welcome in Jacksonville, it wouldn't surprise me to see him gone at the end of a down year. UNDER 8.5

I was surprised when I saw this over/under. This team has been under a lot of turmoil recently as you mentioned, and I don't see Del Rio coming back as coach unless he can get to the playoffs. The offense has no bona fide weapons after fantasy stud Maurice Jones-Drew and the defense has been in decline recently. This is one of the easier bets for me. UNDER 8.5

Houston Texans - Over/Under 8.5 Wins

Everyone seems to be jumping on the Texans as a sleeper team this year, but I don't see it happening yet this year. Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson are good, but I can't see them getting above 8 wins in this division. They'll show some promise, especially with some young stars on D (Okoye, Ryans, Super Mario), but they won't get to the postseason yet. UNDER 8.5

Is this finally the year for the Texans to make the playoffs? I say yes it is. Andre Johnson proved he's in the discussion for best receiver in the league with his consistent performance all season and Steve Slaton provided a nice boost for the ground game. Behind the steady play of a healthy Matt Schaub and an improving defense, I say they finally break the glass ceiling. OVER 8.5

NFC South

New Orleans Saints - Over/Under 9 Wins

I can't believe that my beloved Saints are the Vegas picks to win the South! They've underachieved the last 2 seasons for a number of reasons (dumb coaching decisions, lack of power running, Jason David!) but I'm hoping and praying this is finally the year. Of course, history and years of torment tell me otherwise. But, with Shockey and Colston healthy (and Bush, cross your fingers) to add to the best O in football, and Gregg Williams in to run the D, this could be the year. Of course, I've said that for all 23 years of my existence and it hasn't happened yet, but I will never pick against the Saints, it's a weakness, I know... OVER 9

I don't have such a weakness, so I will pick against the Saints. Their offense is the best in the league, without question. But, head coach Sean Payton has shown a tendency to outthink himself in pressure situations. For every team each season, there are 3-4 games that can swing either way based on one bad play call or one boneheaded defensive play. As much as I hate to say this for you, the Saints' track record shows they come out on the losing end most of the time. The defense still has questions, but I think they're one game better than last year, so I'll be brave and say PUSH 9.

Carolina Panthers - Over/Under 8.5 Wins

Carolina has to be in for a fall this year. They've had to deal with Julius Peppers all off-season, Jake Delhomme's confidence isn't necessarily at a high after that 5 INT performance at home vs the Cards last January. If they weren't big rivals of New Orleans, I would really admire the job John Fox has done in Carolina. I just can't see them getting above .500 this season. UNDER 8.5

Carolina's predicted to take a fall every year, but much like the Eagles, they find a way to win ball games. I think John Fox is one of the most underrated head coaches in the league. Jake will make enough plays/avoid making big mistakes (mostly to Steve Smith) and their running game looks to be one of the best in the league with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. They're not a Super Bowl contender, but they'll contend in the division. OVER 8.5

Atlanta Falcons - Over/Under 8.5 Wins

I'm stunned to see the Falcons at only 8.5. This is one of the easiest calls in the league. RSS favorite Matt Ryan (right) will only be better in year 2, the WR's are getting better, and the D led by John Abraham will be solid once again. They'll compete with New Orleans for the division, but the Saints will beat them out (I hope), they are good enough to get a Wild Card berth though. OVER 8.5

I'm a bit more bullish on the Falcons chances this season. Much like the Dolphins, I think teams took the Falcons for granted a lot last year. Matt Ryan could be due for a sophmore slump, and I'm not convinced Mr. Nice Guy Tony Gonzalez will make that much of an impact. With that being said, I could see this bet going either way. Since I've been optimistic in some other cases, I'll say UNDER 8.5

Tampa Bay Buccanneers - Over/Under 6 Wins

Everyone is picking Tampa Bay as one of the weaker teams in the NFL this year, with a new QB and Jon Gruden now in the MNF booth (fantastic hire btw Bristol, although I am a TK kinda guy). Derrick Brooks is gone too, but the best LB nobody knows, Barrett Ruud, is still there in Tampa. 5-11 is a bad team, and I don't think Tampa is a bad team. I'm tempted to push, but I've had enough of that. Barely over at 7. OVER 6

Y1, I think you're letting your love for the Saints affect your views of the rest of the division. Perhaps only Denver has had more upheaval in the offseason than Tampa. With a young roster, a cavalcade of retreads and rookies at QB, and a first-time head coach in Raheem Morris, there's no way the Bucs can get past 6 wins. UNDER 6

What Are The Odds - AFC/NFC East Over/Under

AFC East

New England Patriots - Over/Under 12 Wins

Y1: Well, Tom Brady appears to be healthy again, which is bad news for the rest of the NFL. 12 wins is a ton for Over/Under, but if you would bet on anyone for the over here, its the Pats. They have all the weapons on offense you could ever need, and the evil sweatshirted genius running the always stout defense. I'll say barely over at 13-3. OVER 12

Y2: I'm not as convinced as you are the Pats will return to completely dominate the rest of the league. Any player, even Tom Brady, is a question mark coming off of major knee surgery. Not to mention, who's actually going to run the ball for this team? On defense, several of their key players are another year older, excluding Mike Vrabel (traded to KC). Yet, they are still the best in the division by a mile, so I'll go on a limb again and say PUSH 12.

Buffalo Bills - Over/Under 7.5 Wins

Buffalo is a hard one to figure out here. Trent Edwards and Marshwan Lynch are pretty solid (if Lynch can stay out of trouble of course), but its hard to tell what impact TO (right) will have on this team. How will he handle being in a small market? How will he react to exact typographical opposite HC Dick Jauron? The D is nothing to write home about, and I can't see TO in Buffalo ending well. UNDER 7.5

I think you hit the nail on the head with this team. They seem to have a bunch of mismatched parts thrown together to try to find an offense. I don't think TO is necessarily going to make Trent Edwards a better quarterback at this time of his career. They'll play well at home, but won't get enough wins on the road to compete for a playoff spot. UNDER 7.5

Miami Dolphins - Over/Under 7.5 Wins

A 7.5 line for a reigning division champ?? Really? I think I'll take those odds every time. Sure, the Wildcat might not fool everyone this year, but with Pat White possibly running the show it could be an extra dimension. Gadget plays aside, this is still a pretty solid football team. As long as Chad Pennington can still lob passes accurately, and the D led by the return of Jason Taylor holds up they'll be good. The schedule is pretty tough against the AFC/NFC South but they should at least eek out 8 wins. OVER 7.5

The return of Jason Taylor, really? He gets rejected by every other team in the league and even Hollywood, so he has to land back in Miami? I think the bloom is off the rose for this team after a magical 2008 season. A lot of their success last year was done with smoke and mirrors, this year, they won't be so lucky. UNDER 7.5

New York Jets - Over/Under 7 Wins

I'm sorry, but I don't buy the Mark Sanchez for Heisman... err Rookie of the Year hype. I swear, every time I turn it on the Eastern SPorts Network I hear about the great Sanchez and how he's leading the Jets to the Super Bowl this year, (yes Bristol has an obsession with USC too). Sanchez (left) is a solid QB, but he's not the next Brady or Montana, and he's still a rookie. The Jets were bad when Favre failed them last year, it'll take a year or two for them to contend, especially in this division. UNDER 7

While I'm sick of having Mark Sanchez driven down my throat, I think this team can be just as good as last year. New head coach Rob Ryan has brought in some impact players on defense with him from Baltimore (Bart Scott, Jim Leonhard, etc.), which I think will help the Jets immensely. On offense, the 1-2 punch of Thomas Jones and Leon Washington should be enough to get this team to .500. OVER 7

NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles - Over/Under 10 Wins

There's actually no way of knowing how Philly will perform with the Vick Circus in town, we've never seen anything like it before. How will Vick play? We don't know. How will Andy Reid circle the wagons? We don't know. Any prediction is an educated guess at best. This group of Eagles has been around the block a few times, but they've never faced these circumstances. 10 wins would be hard under normal circumstances, but now its going to be even harder. Just under at 9-7. UNDER 10

The Eagles seem to become more of a ticking time bomb every year, but somehow, like that bad rash, they keep coming back. For once though, there are more questions than answers. How will Mike Vick fit in and how will the situation affect Donovon McNabb? Will Brian Westbrook ever stay healthy for an entire season? How does the defense handle the tragic passing of coordinator Jim Johnson? There seems to be too much adversity for this team to overcome finally. UNDER 10

New York Giants - Over/Under 9.5 Wins

Well, someone has to win this division right? Plaxico is gone for good now, and that should free up this team to not have to deal with his hijinx. The return of Ahmad Bradshaw to a prominent role should really help aid the ground and pound of Brandon Jacobs (right). They will really need the youth at WR to step up, but the Giants are ready to go back to the top of the East. OVER 9.5

Someone does have to win this division, but I don't think it's the Giants. Eli's big contract may look great on paper, but really, is he one of the best quarterbacks in the league? Without Plax, there isn't a #1 receiver on the team; the opposition can load up the box to stop Brandon Jacobs. Defensively, the Giants seemed to have taken a couple steps back from their Super Bowl dominance. UNDER 9.5

Dallas Cowboys - Over/Under 9 Wins

TO is finally gone, but the biggest big screen TV in the world is the newest distraction for America's Team. Call me old-fashioned, but I like my sports without giant HD TV's right on top of the playing field. Here's hoping LBJ's next last-second shot doesn't deflect off of a giant IPhone. Should you ever have faith in a Wade Phillips led team? No. But the "most talented team in the league" should get to 9 wins. Yes, I'll take the lame way out. PUSH 9

Agreed that this is the most talented team in the league, and without the burden of TO around I think Tony Romo will finally be able to let loose with this offense. There will be two dynamic duos on offense, Roy Williams and Jason Witten catching passes (also free from the wrath of TO) and Fast Felix Jones and Marion the Barbarian in the backfield. The defense, led by DeMarcus Ware will be dominant enough to take the division crown. OVER 9

Washington Redskins - Over/Under 8 Wins

Well, at least Washington can win the spending money title every offseason! Albert Haynesworth signed for over $100 Million, but how much impact can a DT really have? Jason Campbell (left) is still going to be an average QB. Jim Zorn is still going to be an average coach. And with the quality in this division, its going to be hard to get above the .500 mark. UNDER 8

This team's fate this season starts and ends with Jason Campbell. If he doesn't take the leap forward, the Redskins will spend another year in mediocrity. If he does, they have a legitimate chance at making the playoffs. Does anyone out there think Jim Zorn can make Campbell a better quarterback? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? I thought not. Be smart and take UNDER 8

Soundbytes of the Decade-#8 Denny Green

Our #8 soundbyte of the decade takes us to 2006, where an upset was in the making on Monday Night Football. The 5-0 Chicago Bears, ready to carry the banner of past glory, were losing to the 1-4 Arizona Cardinals by 20-0 at halftime. Many thought before the game the Bears would dominate the lowly, hapless Cardinals. However, Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart had other ideas, zipping passes all over the field, exposing a Bears defense that was the best in the league. Meanwhile, Leinart's counterpart Rex Grossman was giving fans a glimpse into the human yo-yo he would become.

However, the tables suddenly turned on the Cardinals in the second half. Thanks to defensive touchdowns by Mike Brown and Charles Tillman and an electrifying punt return by Devin Hester, the Bears roared to take a 24-23 lead. Finally, to pour salt in the Cardinals wound, kicker Neil Rackers, one of the most accurate in the league, yanked a 40-yard field goal as time expired to end one of the most remarkable comebacks/collapses in NFL history.

Needless to say, the loss was tough for Cardinals coach Denny Green who felt his team had exposed the already annointed Super Bowl contenders. What Denny Green didn't know, is that after his post game press conference, he would forever immortalize himself in the Hall of Fame for tirades. So coach Green, how about Da Bears?

Join us next time as our #7 soundbyte examines a diva WR talking about his diva QB, well not talking, more like blubbering. Until then remember, this is our list, it's our blog (sniff, sniff), and what y'all are doin, it's not fair!

What Are The Odds - AFC/NFC North Over/Under

Tonight, we continue our NFL Preview by going to the AFC & NFC North. The AFC North sees the reigning Super Bowl Champion Steelers trying to defend their title while the NFC North has had perhaps the most compelling offseason in football. Three new QB's including a #1 Overall Pick for a winless team, a Pro Bowl QB for the Monsters of the Midway, and some other new guy in Minnesota...

Sage Rosenfels!

Wait, you're telling me Sage Rosenfels isn't the starting QB in Minnesota? Who could it possibly be? Did I miss something? Who would be arrogant and self-righteous enough to come in at this point? Who would think they can just skip camp and ride into town on a white stallion? Oh, no, anything but, no, please not again, make him just go away already!!

On second thought, this could be fun! Anyways, without further adieu, our over/under picks for the NFC & AFC North Divisions!

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings - Over/Under 9.5 Wins

Y2: The Vikings went 10-6 last year without the QB Who Shall Remain Namelss, so what will they do this year? I truly don't believe he adds that much to this team. At 40 years old, can he stay healthy all season. More importantly, what about the health of players like Adrian Peterson and the Williams Wall...sooner or later, the injury bug will bite these players with some history of being banged up. There's just too much pressure now on this team to win a Super Bowl, so I will go slightly under. UNDER 9.5

Y1: Well, Minnesota, you brought this upon yourself. The Favre Circus is in town and now the microscope is on the Twin Cities. I don't know about you, but Brad Childress doesn't exactly exude confidence under a lot of pressure. If Favre's first preseason game is a sign of things to come, maybe it'll be a short season for Brett, and a long one for Minny. Already there are reports of player unrest in the locker room over Favre's arrival, that's a great sign. Maybe Favre will start out good, and flame out again. Then again, maybe he'll just stink from the beginning. UNDER 9.5

Chicago Bears - Over/Under 9 Wins

Ah, the team closest to my heart, DA BEARS! And, for the first time in my lifetime, they have a legitimate quarterback in Jay Cutler. His arrival and the continued development of Matt Forte should hide the deficiencies of an aging defense. However, if the off-season's most important acquisition, that's right, new D-Line coach Rod Marinelli (left) had any impact, the Monsters of the Midway could be reborn. I'll predict double digit wins for the Bears, hey, I have to be optimistic about something. OVER 9.

For all of his shortcomings, Kyle Orton actually wasn't that bad last season. They did score 48 points to win a game last season. Jay Cutler will only strengthen a fairly astute offense, especially for Bears standards. If they get just one receiver to step up, their O could actually be dynamite. However, while the O is on the upswing, the D has been on a major decline for the past few years. Reports are that Brian Urlacher is as close to 100% as he has been in years. If he is, and the defense can play anywhere close to their prime years, they should take the division. OVER 9

Green Bay Packers - Over/Under 8.5 Wins

Ah, the team furthest from my heart, the Pack. While they seem to be the media's darling (mainly the WWL), I don't see this team improving that much from last year. Sure, Aaron Rogers is a serviceable QB, but I don't think he can lead this team to a division title. And don't let their standout defense in the preseason fool you, they are missing a couple of key pieces in their new 3-4. UNDER 8.5

Unlike Mr. Yoder II, I don't have an inherent hatred for the Packers, so I am a little more bullish on their season. Aaron Rodgers played very well in his first season as a starting QB, and it'll be interesting to see what happens with Favre back in the division to motivate him more. The Pack's D will be pretty solid, led by Buckeye alum A.J. Hawk, but the running game will be the key. If Ryan Grant can return to form, the Pack may sneak a Wild Card berth. OVER 8.5

Detroit Lions - Over/Under 4.5 Wins

If you, our loyal RSS reader, would like to throw money away by betting 5 wins or more on a team coming off the first 0-16 season in history, and playing a rookie QB, be my guest. I'll be quite happy taking the safe bet with under. Shoot, if new coach Jim Schwartz (right) wins 4 games, he'll be a saint in Detroit. It will take more than one off-season to cover up the stink that is this Lions team. Good luck if you're fortunate to land any Lion not named Calvin Johnson on your fantasy team. UNDER 4.5

If Jim Schwartz wins 1 game he'll be a hero! Seriously, did you see Matt Stafford "perform" as a starting QB, in Cleveland, in a preseason game? He was atrocious, even for a rookie QB! If the Lions don't have the #1 Pick again next April, I will be absolutely stupified. They might be favored in 2 games: at home to St. Louis, and at home to Cleveland, and that's being very generous. Say a prayer for Coach Schwartz please. UNDER 4.5

For our AFC North Preview, Mr. Yoder II and I will step aside and turn it over to an old, old friend of the program, Brother Yohey (a dazed and confused and diehard Browns fan) for his Over/Under picks in the AFC North in his RSS debut. Take it away Yohey...

Pittsburgh Steelers - Over/Under 10.5

The Perennial AFC North powerhouse returns to defend their Super Bowl title, and they have to be a favorite to repeat. Big Ben is back with Ward, reigning SB MVP Holmes (left) and Miller at his disposal, the O-line has a year under their belt to gel, and oh yea, their defense (Polamalu, Timmons, Harrison and crew) is ok. The only question for the Steelers would be the running back position. They didn't draft Rashard Mendenhall in the 1st round to just sit around. Fast Willie’s time carrying the rock may be coming to an end if Mendenhall can stay healthy and produce. OVER 10.5 - 11 Wins

Cincinnati Bengals - Over/Under 7

Carson Palmer returns after an injury shortened 2008 season, but doesn’t have his stop-gap at WR in Houshmandzadeh. Sure, they got OchoCinco and Coles, but how good is OchoCinco going to be without TJ taking away the double coverage? I can’t see Coles as a good replacement. They are young though at WR so there are some chances to develop talent. They are counting on Cedric Benson at RB to carry the load, but will he be Rudi Johnson circa mid 2000’s, or continue Cincy's more recent poor ground game? The defense is going to have to be recognized as a rising unit with Rivers, Jones and Johnson in the linebacking core and the addition of Rey Maualuaga may just be with the Bengals need to get over the hump and possibly save Lewis‘ job. Haven’t we said that before though? PUSH 7 - 7 Wins

Baltimore Ravens - Over/Under 9

For losing starters Bart Scott, Jim Leonhard and Marques Douglas, you’d assume there would be concerns with Baltimore; not so. Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are still there, and Haloti Ngata at NT is proving to be one of the top NT's in the AFC and possibly the NFL, if not the best. They showed that defensive dominance Monday night against the Jets (albeit preseason). They lost Rex Ryan at defensive coordinator to the Jets, but nothing seemed to change. With Flacco having another year to learn the offense and study, he should be a better QB, especially with the rocket arm and a solid play action attack with the rise of Ray Rice at RB. The only question could be at WR where they don’t have a solid #1 guy, but Derrick Mason is doing his best Brett Favre impersonation, so they should be ok. OVER 9 - 11 Wins

Cleveland Browns - Over/Under 6.5

Where to start here... new front office, new coach, and a revamped roster. There is no solid QB, the #1 WR has inconsistent hands and there are no consistent producers on defense. Just because those are questions that we don’t have answers to does not mean that there is no hope for us Browns fans. The offensive line, led by Joe Thomas, is the catalyst for the Cleveland offense. They are bigger and undoubtedly the deepest and most talented since the rebirth. Quinn and Anderson have shown flashes of good QB play, and Braylon’s 2007 season (16 TD’s) showed what he can do. Rob Ryan at defensive coordinator can’t hurt, and with Cribbs touching the ball, you never can know what will happen. Not to the playoffs yet, but at least we might have some hope, is that too much to ask? OVER 6.5 - 7 Wins