Hot off the Grill - NFL Week 8 Preview

The grill is taking a break to celebrate Free Chipotle Day!! I like mine with the peppers and onions, steak, hot & corn salsa, sour cream, cheese, and lettuce. There are 3 sitting in the fridge, don't worry, we're not starving here at RSS. Oh, yea, it's also Halloween too! That means we're almost at the halfway point of the NFL season. The playoffs will be here before you know it, so grab your burrito and tin foil and follow me!

Big Kielbasa's Game Of the Week - Minnesota (6-1) @ Green Bay (4-2)

In case you haven't heard, the Vikings and the Packers are playing a football game this Sunday. Thankfully, with everything else going on in the sports world, the hype hasn't been as suffocating as it could have been. Ignoring all of the nonsense surrounding this one, the importance of this showdown is immense. Minny's loss at Pittsburgh moved them out of 1st in the NFC and back to within 1.5 games of Green Bay. The Pack were able to gain confidence by beating up on the sorry Browns last week.

In the reverse fixture, Green Bay buckled under the magnitude of the occasion, and the atmosphere of the Metrodome. The O-Line and Aaron Rodgers won't have those problems to deal with this time around. As long as Brad Childress forgets he has the best player in football like he did last week (51 throws for the Minny QB Who Shall Remain Nameless In This Preview), Green Bay has the inside track to a win. If AP gets 30+ carries, then the Vikes will be victorious. I'm guessing that the former is more likely to happen given the circumstances. PICK-Packers

Beer Brat's Spotlight Game Of the Week - Atlanta (4-2) at New Orleans (6-0)

The Bayou Bombers take the national spotlight on Monday night as they welcome Matt Ryan and the rival Falcons to the Dome. This game is huge for both teams. For the Saints, they need a win to prove to the nation that they are for real, and to keep the mojo moving. For Atlanta, a loss in this game means they'll be behind in the Wild Card race, and a distant 3 games out of the division lead. Can Reggie Bush back up the talk from earlier in the week? He hasn't had a big season, but the last time he played on Monday night, he had 2 punt return TDs. Expect Reg and the Saints to keep flying high at home. PICK-Saints

Chorizo's Upset Of the Week - Denver (6-0) at Baltimore (3-3)

-Ok, so, in Week 8 one team is undefeated. They play on the road against a team that has lost 3 games in a row. And, of course, the team that is teetering on the edge of .500 is the favorite! Only in America! Yes, it took us a while to get aboard the Denver bandwagon, but evidently it's taking Vegas longer. Baltimore is a 4 point favorite, but do you think Ray Lewis can stop Kyle Orton?? Neither did we... PICK-Broncos

Andouille's UTR Game - New York Giants (5-2) @ Philadelphia (4-2)

-An NFC East game under the radar! Impossible! Well, actually, it's not even the most important game being played in the city (there is that little World Series thing going on). Oh, and the biggest football game in the history of the universe is happening in Green Bay on the same day (sarcasm noted). But, this game is for 1st place in the division. The Eagles are back up with McNabb healthy and the Giants have lost 2 in a row. This series always produces good games, and it always seems these Giants get the best of the Eagles. PICK-Giants

Hot Dog Of The Week - Colts QB Peyton Manning

-Well, if it ain't broke, don't fix it! While the pieces around him may change, Peyton Manning remains the same. The Colts are still undefeated and show absolutely no signs of slowing down. Don' be surprised if they handle San Francisco pretty easily this week... and if Manning adds another MVP to the trophy cabinet.

Extra Toppings -

-I wonder what will be cross-promoted more: Pack-Vikes, NYG-Phi, or Phils-Yanks. Fox is going to have a field day with all of this hype on their own network, and yes, it'll be insufferable.

-So Rob Ryan is upset about the impending boycott by Browns season ticket holders?? I got an idea Rob, why don't you spend less time worrying about the butts in the seat and more time fixing that 32nd ranked defense. Or, maybe you should switch places with those fans, it couldn't hurt.

-The most overhyped story of the week: the Reggie Bush undefeated comments. You want a detailed look at the Saints' chances of going unbeaten... ask and ye shall receive.

-Shoot, shouldn't our Under the Radar game be 1-5 Detroit hosting 0-7 St. Louis? Does Detroit lose intentionally to save their 0-16 legacy??

-No Sunday night game this week because of the World Series. Is there a mob-like non complete clause here or what?

-Who has the better day on Sunday: Vince Young, JaMarcus Russell, Kerry Collins, or Bruce Gradkowski? I'm putting money down on Gradkowski.

-Will Jake Delhomme try to outdo himself in AZ and throw 6 picks on Sunday??

-Interesting Over/Under in Chicago: Jay Cutler INTs or Derek Anderson completions... in the words of the great Nick Bakay, advantage... push.

Randall's Got His Eye On You... Cheeseheads

-OK Packer fans, here is your chance to get in Randall's good graces (even though Y2 is a Bears fan, you now share something in common... an insatiable thirst for the blood of #4 (a little violent, but it's Halloween relax)). Your hero turned your back on you forever, how will you repay him? Will you give in and give him the standing ovation that the media want you to give... or will you mercilessly boo him like the traitor he is. Green Bay fans need to take a stand here and show some cajones by making sure that that certain #4 will always regret turning his back on the Pack. Don't let Randall down!

That concludes our Hot off the Grill Preview. I see the Yankees are down 3-2 in the 4th Inning... Yankee Nation needs to pull together!

EPL Picks & MLS Playoff Thoughts

Halloween is just around the corner and it was a week of fright for our EPL Picks! Speaking of fright, sorry to all of our British readers that had to witness the Tampa Bay Bucs. For the first time this season, the Yoder Bros were kept under .500 for the week. Dr. Yoder actually picked up some ground on the rebel children by picking upsets Wigan and Birmingham to come through. This week, we'll try to rebound and also give you our thoughts on the MLS Playoffs! Away we go...

Last Week's Results:

Mr. Yoder II: 1-5-4 7 pts

Mr. Yoder I: 2-4-4 10 pts

Dr. Yoder: 3-3-4 13 pts

Total Standings:

Mr. Yoder II: 54-27-15 177 pts

Mr. Yoder I: 52-29-15 171 pts

Dr. Yoder: 49-32-15 162 pts

Tottenham (6-3-1) @ Arsenal (6-2-1)

The North London Derby takes center stage this week with its early Saturday kickoff. Both teams come off disappointing results last week (TH L v Stoke, Arsenal T v WHU). They sit tied for 3rd on the table currently. This might not equal their 4-4 classic last year, but Spurs will get a late goal again, this time to win.

Y1: Spurs Y2: Arsenal Doc: Arsenal

Chelsea (8-2-0) @ Bolton (3-4-2)

Chelsea destroyed Blackburn last week while Bolton got the surprising win over Everton. I'm guessing we'll see something closer to the former this week...

Y1: Chelsea Y2: Chelsea Doc: Chelsea

Hull City (2-6-2) @ Burnley (4-6-0)

Hull and Pompey played perhaps the worst game in recorded Premier League history last week, luckily I wasn't scarred by the experience. Burnley found their spotless home record spoiled by Wigan, but they'll bounce back.

Y1: Burnley Y2: Burnley Doc: Burnley

Aston Villa (5-2-2) @ Everton (3-4-2)

Ok, so maybe Everton's climb back up the table is going to take longer than anticipated, or it might not happen at all. This fixture last year was another breathless affair with Ashley Young the late hero. Villa to take it at Goodison.

Y1: Villa Y2: Villa Doc: Everton

Liverpool (6-4-0) @ Fulham (3-4-2)

Liverpool saved their season with that huge 2-0 win over Man U on Sunday. But, it will only really be saved if they continue on and beat Fulham this week. Injury concerns abound for the Reds with Gerrard and Glen Johnson ruled out for the encounter. But, if El Nino is healthy, that may be all they need.

Y1: Liverpool Y2: Liverpool Doc: Liverpool

Wigan Athletic (4-5-1) @ Portsmouth (1-8-1)

Wigan continues to pick up impressive road wins, this time winning at Turf Moor. The trip to Fratton Park won't be as tough. With the boardroom on the South coast in shambles, don't expect the on-field product to be inspired.

Y1: Wigan Y2: Portsmouth Doc: Wigan

Wolves (2-5-3) @ Stoke City (4-3-3)

Well done Stoke. Followers of the picks know that I'm high on the Potters, and the win at WHL showed exactly why. That could be a season defining win with Stoke staying in the top half of the table. Expect them to deal with Wolves pretty easily.

Y1: Stoke Y2: Stoke Doc: Stoke

West Ham Utd. (1-5-3) @ Sunderland (5-4-1)

Sunderland has the look of a team that will continue to balance great results with poor ones throughout the season. For West Ham, a draw with Arsenal might lift spirits, but they need much more than a point at a time to ease those relegation fears.

Y1: Sunderland Y2: Sunderland Doc: Sunderland

Blackburn (3-5-1) @ Manchester United (7-2-1)

Man U gets a nice chance to bounce back against a Blackburn team that never looks like it even wants to play on the same pitch as the Big 4 teams. Expect an angry, intense United team to come out on Saturday and regain the mojo after last week's loss at Anfield.

Y1: Man U Y2: Man U Doc: Man U

Manchester City (5-1-3) @ Birmingham (3-5-1)

Man City can't afford to keep drawing games if they want to put up a serious title charge this season. City are down to 6th on the table and with a EPL season that looks like a number of teams can be in contention throughout the year, these are the games that define seasons. Birmingham has put up a respectable first 9 games to their campaign, but City are favored in this one.

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

Aston Villa @ West Ham (Wednesday)

A bonus Wednesday pick! Looking into the crystal ball... Villa continues their fine form from beating Everton while the fears around West Ham come to a fever pitch.

Y1: Villa Y2: Villa Doc: West Ham

MLS PLAYOFFS

Well, we managed to correctly predict 5 of the 8 playoff teams from all the way back in June (pretty good when you consider our American sports predictions...). We haven't touched on the MLS season in a while here at RSS, but the end of the season proved to be dramatic with teams fighting down the stretch to get into the postseason. 5 teams were able to get in from the West, and 3 from the East, a reverse from last year. The Crew go in winning their 2nd Supporters Shield in a row and are also looking for their 2nd straight MLS Cup. The stars are all out in this postseason: Beckham, Donovan, Blanco, Schelotto, Holden and countless more. Before we preview each 1st round matchup, let's tell analyze each team's chances at listing the trophy by analyzing Pros and Cons for each team.

EAST

1) Columbus Crew 49 Pts

Pros: Supporters Shield winners... Reigning League MVP Schelotto healthy... Have the deepest team in the league... Homefield advantage throughout the playoffs... Defending champions.

Cons: Is star defender Chad Marshall knee's going to be in shape... Only one goal in MLS this month... Propensity to give up late goals... Rookie head coach Robert Warzycha in first postseason... Lost 2 straight home games.

2) Chicago Fire 45 Pts

Pros: Blanco... McBride... Revenge factor from last season vs Columbus... Experienced roster... history of success vs New England in the playoffs... sending Blanco out a winner

Cons: Distraction of Blanco's announcement that he's returning to Mexico... key players are very, very old... 4-4-4 in the 2nd half of the season... more draws than wins this season

3) New England Revolution 42 Pts

Pros: Shalrie Joseph... Steve Nicol... it's cold in New England this time of year... dark horse of the field... I'm trying here...

Cons: Lack of success vs Chicago... fewest number of goals scored from playoff teams... lowest goal differential amongst playoff teams... injuries to key players... lack of scoring punch up front

4) Real Salt Lake 40 Pts

Pros: Highest scoring team in the playoffs... made last year's conference finals... NYRB made MLS Cup Final as crossover Wild Card last season... beat Columbus 4-1 at home this season

Cons: 2-11-2 road record... 2-3-1 in their last 6... 0-5-1 in games in the Eastern time zone... lowest numbers of points of any playoff team...

WEST

1) LA Galaxy 48 Pts

Pros: Donovan and Beckham... Bruce Arena's coaching.... vastly improved defesne... star power finally matched by on-field product... unbeaten in October... champs of the superior conference

Cons: Is there too much pressure... is Donovan a big game player... is Beckham more focused on AC Milan and Posh... lack of postseason experience

2) Houston Dynamo 48 Pts

Pros: Maybe the most talented team in the league... Ching, Clark, Holden are national team stars... 2-time MLS Cup Champions... Best GD in the West... unbeaten in last 5 games

Cons: 0-2-2 vs Los Angeles and Columbus... can Pat Onstad hold up in goal... disappointing CONCACAF result... Mexican signing Luis Landin has only 1 goal... 0 goals in first playoff game

3) Seattle Sounders 47 Pts

Pros: Huge homefield advantage... Sigi Schmid... Freddy & Freddy... Kasey Keller... Drew Carey... ended Columbus' home unbeaten streak... US Open Cup Champions

Cons: First time in the Playoffs... duh, they're an expansion team... held scoreless at home in 1st leg... only 2 scorers with more than 5 goals... injury questions... questions about Ljungberg's future...

4) Chivas USA 45 Pts

Pros: Sasha Kjlestan... get to play both first round games at home.... Zach Thornton has been a revelation in goal... as has Preki as a coach...

Cons: Sasha Kjlestan... get to play both first round games on the road... 0-2-1 vs the Galaxy this season... who will score goals for Chivas?

1st Round Matchups

Crew vs RSL

-The 5th seed from the West becomes the 4th seed in the East. If Columbus gets through the first leg unscathed, they should easily handle RSL at home. Watch and see how Columbus finishes in front of goal; they have a lot of options up front, but the scoring touch has gone missing in the last month. The Crew haven't been lighting the world on fire recently, but this team has the skill and experience to get by the upset-minded Western Wild Cards. PICK - Columbus

Fire vs Revs

-It seems like these two teams square off in the postseason every year. Chicago isn't getting any younger and the magic of Blanco and McBride doesn't quite seem like it's there as in recent years. Toyota Park in Chicago isn't exactly a fortress for the Fire this season. New England has what it takes to shutout Chicago over the two game series and pull of the upset. PICK - New England

LA vs Chivas

-The Clasico (gotta love MLS trying to turn this into Boca v River or Man U v Liverpool), while feeling a little contrived, is pretty compelling. There has been an actual rivalry built up between these two teams over the past couple seasons. The key will be if David Beckham can keep his cool over the 2 game series. With both contests at the Home Depot Center, expect this to be as close as it can be. In 3 games this season, LA was 2-0-1, with only 2 total goals scored between the teams! Expect a moment of brilliance from Donovan or Becks to make the difference. PICK - Galaxy

Houston vs Seattle

-Well, we already have the luxury of knowing that Houston was able to hold Seattle to a 0-0 draw at Qwest Field and go home just needing a win to move on to the Conference Finals. Surprising that a game between 2 high powered offenses would end in a stalemate. Even though Houston is heading home, you can't discount Sigi Schmid's coaching ability. Ever since Seattle came into the league, there has been a sense of destiny about them. In an upset, Seattle goes into Houston next week and gets a road win. PICK - Seattle

Yes, The Saints Can Go 16-0.

The mainstream media was up in arms this week about Reggie Bush's comments that he believes the Saints can go undefeated this season.

Tedy Bruschi said that Bush "spilled that filth" about going undefeated (not that he's protecting his Patriots). Throughout the week, various ex-players and analysts have called Bush out for his remarks. They said it's way too early to talk about being undefeated. Almost universally, the former Heisman winner was creamed for speaking his mind. But, why is it that only certain athletes can come out and speak positively about their team? Let's look at Bush's quote in its entirety:

"Can we go undefeated?" Bush said. "Yes. I do think we have the players, the chemistry, we have the heart and dedication, the coaching staff, we have the players."

What the F*&% do you expect him to say??

"No, we can't do it, why would we think that we can win every game."

"You know, we have to play the Bucs twice, including at Tampa, so those are going to be tough games."

"I know that meatheads like Mark Schlereth and Tedy Bruschi are going to be listening so I don't want to say anything that might upset the apple cart and disrespect the legacy of the 18-1 Patriots."

"Actually we'll lose on Monday against Atlanta... so all of this undefeated talk is ridiculous."

"Ya know, I'm just concentrating on my girl Kim... I don't really care that much about how the team performs. I love my uncle Bruce though."

(Ok, so he actually did tweet that he loved Bruce Jenner, but moving on...)

Are you kidding? Do you think Jimmy Rollins is going to tell Jay Leno that he predicts the Yankees to win in the World Series too. We hear all the time that athletes don't speak their mind enough, that we're tired of hearing cliches like "one game at a time" and "one play at a time" and "never overlooking an opponent." And yet, when an athlete actually speaks his mind, he gets shut down. The truth is, only speak out positively about your team if you're already a media darling. It's hypocrisy, and it's a load of bull.

In truth, the Bush bashing speaks more to the point that he has had a solid yet unspectacular career in New Orleans. Injuries has played a part, and so has his propensity to put the ball on the turf. Most ex-players and analysts have never been Bush fans, whether it is his finesse style, the controversy swirling around his USC days, or the celeb relationship w/ KK. However, nobody can deny his positive impact for the Saints attack. You only have to see his 24 foot long jump into the endzone on Sunday in Miami. So, when he speaks out, much like other favorite media punching bags, the sharks will circle.

But, this fake controversy is overlooking the real story.

The Saints actually do have a legitimate chance to go 16-0. If that SI cover jinx doesn't kick in at least...

Sure, we're used to seeing the Saints be awful. Sure, teams aren't supposed to go undefeated throughout the season in the NFL. Sure, there's still more than half of the season to play. But, this team might just have what it takes to run the table. Here are 5 reasons why it could happen....

1) QB Play & Leadership

Nobody, including Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, is a better QB than Drew Brees. Brees has to be put on the pedestal that has been occupied exclusively by Brady and Manning. With Brees leading the Saints offense, they're never out of a game. The 21 point comeback against Miami was accomplished with a flair and ease that is unfathomable. The Saints can march down the field and score on any team in the league (48 points against the once vaunted Giants D). They're on pace to break the all-time scoring record, and the signal caller is the main reason why. Since he's been in NO, the numbers say that Brees has been among the league's best and most consistent QB. However, perhaps more important, is Brees' leadership qualities. The Saints #9 is the unquestioned leader of the team, and someone that all 53 players rally around. Maybe the only team that can match these Saints' firepower are those guys below...

...and yes, I'm pumped about the sequel!

2) The Dome Patrol

The Saints D is legit. For years, all Saints fans have asked for is a defense in the Top 15 to give this team a chance to compete. They wanted a D that could play on the same field as the days of the Dome Patrol when LBs like Swilling, Mills, Johnson and Jackson all made the Pro Bowl in the same year. Well, the Dome Patrol is back. The two most important offseason additions anywhere might be D Coordinator Gregg Williams and Free Safety Darren Sharper. Sharper is putting up Defensive MVP numbers with 3 Pick 6s already, shoring up a Saints secondary that has been the achilles heel in the Payton Era. Also, give it up to Payton for sacrificing some of his salary to sign Williams. The ex-Buffalo head coach has given the Saints D life with an aggressive, attacking style, which is tied for the league lead in takeaways. People like Tony Kornheiser say that they need to see the Saints win a defensive struggle to truly believe... maybe he didn't see this team hold Buffalo and the Jets to one offensive TD combined. The vastly new and improved defense makes this team an elite force.

3) Balance

Would you believe that the Saints actually have a higher ranked rushing attack than passing attack? Yes, the Saints run the ball, and do it darn well too. They're the 3rd best rushing team in the NFL and the 6th best passing team. Running backs Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell, and that man Bush have led a renewed rushing attack. This means that the Saints aren't only balanced, but can close games that they could not in the past by running the ball in the 4th Quarter. Bell and Thomas have 5 TDs between them and have rushed for 657 yards through 6 games. The ability to run the ball is perhaps the biggest reason why this team has made a quantum leap this season.

4) Homefield Advantage

When the Saints are good, the Superdome is the toughest place to play in the league. Granted, that doesn't happen very often, but when it does, it is a French Quarter fortress. They've scored over 30 points in 6 of their last 9 home games, and they've exceeded 45 points in 2 of 3 home games this season. This team is absolutely built to run wild in the Dome and with a renewed defense and euphoric crowd, they'll be very hard to beat. Remember, they handled both unbeaten New York teams easily at home beating one with defense (2 D TDs vs the Jets) and the other with offense (48 pts vs the Giants). Three of the four toughest tests on the schedule come at home: Atlanta and New England, both on Monday night, and Dallas.

5) The Schedule

Perhaps the most important factor that favors the Saints. Their schedule is incredibly easy in their last 10 games. Their remaining opponents have a combined record of 23-42. 23-42!!! They get to play Tampa and Carolina twice. They get tough road tests at worldbeaters St. Louis and Washington. Let that sink in, 6 of their last 10 are against horrible, horrible teams. (BTW, check out our take on why there are so many awful NFL teams here) And, as stated previously, their toughest games are all at home. A Dec. 13 date at Atlanta is really the only tough road game that the Saints have to play. If they hold serve at home and win at Atlanta, an undefeated season isn't possible, but likely.

What do you think? Can the Saints do it? Or is all of this undefeated talk crazy and uncalled for? Leave us a comment and let us know what RSS Nation has to say...

Hot off the Grill - CFB Week 9 Preview

If you're like me, wondering why baseball is being played at this time of year...you're in luck! Another huge week of college football awaits with matchups across the country that will shape the national title picture. Put the eyeblack on, fire up the tailgate grill, and follow me!

Big Kielbasa's Game Of the Week - #5 USC (6-1) at #10 Oregon (6-1)

Sure, you've heard of USC's freshmen sensation at QB, Matt Barkley. But, have you heard of his counterpart in Saturday's Big Kielbasa, Oregon QB Jeremiah Masoli? Well, maybe you should have because he's lead the Oregon offense to new heights this season...when he's been healthy. In the last 3 games he's started, Oregon has averaged 45 points and 480 yards per game. If Masoli can stay upright, and keep the form he showed last week coming off injury, the Ducks offense should match the Trojans stride-for-stride.

Everyone expects USC's dynamic offense to get their points, especially with the sheer volume of weapons Barkley has to choose from in a given week. And, the USC defense, although plagued by late game rallies by the opposition, hasn't been healthier all season. But, and there's always a but, Oregon seems like a team of BCS destiny. After overcoming the embarrassing loss to Boise to open the year, the Ducks have been flying high. And while Barkley has won in some tough places this year, here's betting he doesn't lead the Trojans to their first win in Oregon since 2005. PICK-Oregon

Beer Brat's Spotlight Game Of the Week - #3 Texas (7-0) @ #14 Oklahoma St. (6-1)

Earlier in the season, this looked to be one of the seminal games on the college football schedule. That is, if you read those foolish blogs who predicted Oklahoma St. as a dark horse national title contender (oh wait...WE were one of those blogs...guess I'll just blame that on Y1). Anyway, Texas's BCS Title hopes are still well alive, but they go into T. Boone Pickens Stadium (hereto known as The TBoo) facing a decimated Cowboys team. Out of their heralded Big 3, only QB Zac Robinson remains. All-conference RB Kendall Hunter has been slowed by injury and may not even play, while WR Dez Bryant remains ineligible for having a sandwich with Primetime. While the Cowboys will be ready to go, the talent isn't there to compete with the 'Horns. Colt McCoy looked like a legit Heisman threat for the first time last week, expect more of the same this week. PICK-Texas

Chorizo's Upset Of the Week - Georgia (4-3) vs. #1 Florida (7-0)

I'd say this would qualify as an upset, wouldn't you? Georgia, struggling mightily at 4-3 coming off a 49-10 whoopin' last year at the hands of the Gators are suddenly going to rise up and knock off the #1 team in the land. Yes! Georgia has had an extra week to prepare and don't discount the motivation of a) derailing UF's title dreams and b) rubbing in the face of Urban Meyer, who called two time outs in last year's blowout in the final minute! Although Florida is a 15-point favorite, they've never been more vulnerable under the Tebow/Meyer regime. In their last two games they've looked downright ordinary at times on offense, while their defense has shown some weakness up the middle. Expect the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party to deliver another memorable encounter, and a dethroned #1. PICK-UGA

Andouille's Under the Radar Game - NC State (3-4) @ Florida St. (3-4)

Ok, so we had to go really far under the radar this week, but the andouille is a surprisingly feisty fellow, and he found a game with historical implications, between two 3-4 teams! How is this possible? Because one of these teams is Bobby Bowden's Florida St. Seminoles. For why this is such an important game, keep reading...just know FSU needs this one badly. PICK-Florida St.

Hot Dog Of The Week - Kirk Ferentz - HC Iowa

Iowa HC Kirk Ferentz has reason to hide behind that coy grin of his. Even though he's been a tad overhyped as the next great college coach who should turn pro, the guy has done an outstanding job at Iowa, compiling a 78-53 record. So why with his team undefeated and a legit shot at a national title, would he say this week his team isn't a Top 10 team, or that they are underdogs traveling to INDIANA! Because, Ferentz knows he has his best Iowa team yet, and will go undefeated if they take care of business at Ohio St. later in November. But, he needs to keep playing up the plucky underdog role as long as he can. The longer Iowa stays lurking in the weeds, the better for his team's chances at a national title. But, there's only so much Ferentz can do this week against the Hoosiers to keep Iowa from getting their first real blowout win of the season. Expect Iowa to really put the hurt on Indiana this week.

Extra Toppings -

-What Bob Griese said about Juan Pablo Montoya was just plain stupid. He was trying to be funny in a situation that didn't really call for it and deserved the one-week suspension. Anything more than that though would be excessive, so let's hope this is the end of another unnecessary controversy.

-Now, this week's example of the PC police going too far...the game formerly known as the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party between Florida and Georgia. Due to concerns about alcohol consumption on campuses, the game is now known as the Florida/Georgia-Georgia/Florida Game. Wow, that may be the lamest title for a game I've ever heard. If you want to do something meaningful about alcohol consumption on campus, start by taking control of your tailgaters and underage drinking. Spineless gestures like this do nothing to actually solve the problem at the expense of a fun tradition.

-Meanwhile, huge props to the fans of West Virginia for the way they opened their hearts to the UConn football program. We told you the game would be emotional, and I doubt many WVU fans would have begrudged losing last Saturday.

-If you're looking for another take on this week's slate, make sure you check out the picks from our friends over at Rumors & Rants

-The two key words of the week will be style points. Teams like Iowa, Cincinnati, TCU, and Boise St. all need them by the bucket loads to keep up with the Top 3.

-This week's bizzaro world game takes place in San Antonio, as Washington St. travels to play...Notre Dame? Is that right? Apparently Charlie Weis thinks it's important to showoff to Texas recruits, personally, I think he just wanted to get an authentic Texas-sized sirloin.

-On a local note...why in the world is Ohio St. hosting New Mexico St. on the last Saturday in October? Was there a mixup in the NCAA scheduling? Did Coach Tress confuse these Aggies with the Aggies of Texas A&M? At least Terrelle Pryor will be thankful.

-By the way, we told you last week would shape the Buckeyes So. QB's career, and by all accounts, the young man is up to the challenge. Watch out next year!

Randall's Got His Eye On You... Bobby Bowden-HC-Florida St.

We told you above this would be a big week for 3-4 Florida St., but why? Well, let's look at the schedule. Florida St. has 5 games left, 1 of those coming at the end of the season against mighty Florida (yeah, go ahead and pencil that in as an L). That means to be bowl eligible, Florida St. will have to win 3 out of their other 4 games. Big deal, so Florida St. misses a bowl game, right? Only problem is they haven't done that since 1981! With pressure growing by the minute on Bowden to shuffle off to greener pastures, missing out on a bowl game could be the final nail in his coffin...his coaching coffin, that is. With tough road games at Clemson and at Wake coming up, Bowden needs a win this week against NC State.

That's it for our CFB Preview, but join us tomorrow as we give you an in-depth look at the Saints chances for an undefeated season. Also be sure to check out the latest installment of our Decade Series and stay tuned for our weekly EPL and NFL previews. Until next time, it's bye for now!

Top 10 Teams of the Decade

The Decade Series is back! This week our list focuses on the Top 10 Teams of the Decade. These aren't single-season teams, but rather the best franchises of the past 10 years. These teams have a "Commitment to Excellence" that Al Davis would be proud of, if he's still awake. To make such a prestigious list you have to have won multiple championships and be the epitome of greatness in the sports world. These franchises are simply the best.

10) Pittsburgh Steelers - Winners of SB XL and XLIII, 5 Division Titles, 6 Playoff Appearances

With first Bill Cowher and now Mike Tomlin at the helm, this is the model of a stable, successful franchise. Behind the QB play of Ben Roethlisberger and heroics from Willie Parker and Santonio Holmes, they won 2 titles this decade. Something only surpassed by a team later in the countdown. Throughout the decade, they have consistently been at the top of the NFL and have one of the nation's largest fanbases. In a league of supposed parity, the Steelers are always good.

9) San Antonio Spurs - 2003, 2005, 2007 NBA Champions, 10 Playoff Appearances

If there is one team on our list that can have a beef, it's San Antonio. 3 titles in a decade is quite the accomplishment, not to mention making the playoffs every single year in the 00's. Led by the unflappable Big Fundamental Tim Duncan and Coach Pop, the Spurs are the epitome of a consistent winner. But, if there is one thing holding back the Spurs it is there utter lack of interest, pizazz, or excitement which makes them the most boring team in the countdown.

8) #48 Jimmie Johnson - 2006, 2007, 2008 Nascar Champion, 2006 Daytona 500 Winner, 2006, 2008, 2009 Brickyard 400 Winner

Wait a minute, a racecar driver... that's not a team! Oh contraire mon frere as the French say. Jimmie Johnson's success is in large part due to the fantastic team around him. As has been documented here before, car owner Rick Hendrick is perhaps the best owner in all of sports, and Crew Chief Chad Knaus has been with Jimmie through every step of his likely 4 straight titles. The #48 team never puts a foot wrong seemingly, and the entire crew deserves credit.

7) Ferrari F1 - 6 Drivers Championships (2000-2004, 2007) and 7 Constructors Titles (previous and 2008)

Wait, 2 racing teams! But of course! In the world of racing, only the legendary red cars of Ferrari can match NASCAR's #48 team. Their dominance in the early part of the decade led by Michael Schumacher is one of the most impressive runs in sport across the world. They then showed in 2007 and 2008 that they weren't totally dependent on Schumi's excellence by winning a Team title in 2008 and Kimi Raikkonen's triumph in 2007.

6) Boston Red Sox - 2004 and 2007 World Series Titles, 6 Playoff Appearances

The Red Sox make a ceremonial appearance on the countdown due to their 2 World Series triumphs in 2004 and 2007. The '04 title win that broke the curse of that one guy is enough to put them on the list, but the comeback against the Yanks will be talked about forever. Even though the Yankees might have won more division titles this decade, the Sox won most when it counts - October. But, if the Yanks go on and win the 2009 World Series, consider this Sox/Yanks decision reversed!

5) Florida Gators - 2oo6 and 2007 NCAA Bball Titles, 2006 and 2008 BCS titles

In the college realm, Florida has been Titletown USA. Their 2006 Football and Basketball titles is an unprecedented accomplishment that might not be seen again in major college athletics. Stars such as Noah, Brewer, Tebow, and Harvin have led the Gators on the field while Billy Donovan (the Magic flirtation aside) and Urban Meyer have provided outstanding leadership for each program. Florida football might even add to the trophy cabinet in January, would that count for this decade or the next though.... ummm... next?

4) UConn Basketball - 5 NCAA Championships (2000, '02-'04, 2009) 39-0 in 2002 and 2009

The UConn Women's basketball team is the best. The program that Geno Auriemma built in Storrs won their eternal rivalry with Tennessee this decade. They had 3 more NCAA titles and also an incredible feat of 2 perfect 39-0 seasons 7 years apart! The only reason UConn isn't at the top is the total lack of depth in Women's Bball. Every year there might only be 6-7 teams capable of winning a title and one of them is UConn. I guess that's not Geno's fault though...

3) Manchester United - 12 Total Trophies including 5 EPL Titles, 1 Champions League, and 1 Club World Cup

We go back to the world stage for our #3 team and the most accomplished soccer club in the world. Glory, Glory Man United indeed. Their trophy rack has increased greatly this decade with 5 EPL titles (now in a tie with Liverpool for the most ever) and their unique international double of winning the UEFA Champions League and the Club World Cup. Throughout the decade, Fergie's troops have been the most consistent soccer power throughout the world, and they show no signs of slowing down.

2) Los Angeles Lakers - 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2009 NBA Champions, 2004 and 2008 Finals Appearance

If only Kobe and Shaq were kept together! They would be a solid #1 on our list, but the breakup of the LA dynasty meant they only won 4 titles this decade, yea, only 4. The 2004 team beating the Pistons would have easily put the Lakers at #1, but that was instead the end of an era. Kobe, Shaq, and Phil broke up and the Lakers were never the same... at least until 2008. Surprisingly, Phil came back as Kobe was the lone wolf in leading LA to a 2008 Finals appearance and a 2009 victory.

1) New England Patriots - Super Bowl XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX Champions, 16-0 regular season in 2007.

The team of the decade. However, their image has gone from that of underdog heroes in 2001 (remember the team introduction at the Super Bowl?) to obnoxious, cheating villains with guys like Belichick and Brady that you love to hate (don't forget Spygate either). Nevertheless, their acheivements this decade are unmatched in sports. They are the dynasty in a dynasty-proof league. Plus, they are only the second team in league history to have an undefeated regular season, don't ask about what happened in the Super Bowl that year though. With their unmatched success, this team has been the flagship bearer in the world of sports throughout the 2000's.

That's our list, what's yours? Don't forget to leave us your feedback (you can be critical, or positive... don't forget you can actually agree!) on the Top 10 Teams of the Decade. Who's #1? Who belongs and who doesn't? Who would you move up and down the list or on and off the list? The decade series will return with our extended countdown and profiles of the Top 10 Games of the Decade. Till then, it's bye for now!

What Are The Odds: World Series Preview

Time for RSS's World Series What Are The Odds Preview. We'll give you the odds on not only who will win and who will lose between the Yanks and the Phils, but some other juicy lines as well. A comprehensive preview of the entire World Series, Vegas style. Of course, these are lines and odds that you won't see anywhere else. Only Randall Simon's Sausages tells you like it is. Let's play the odds!

Buck & McCarver Annoy America - 1/5,000,000

Yea, this is going to happen at some point during the series. Whew, I hope the rest of the preview is this easy!

Brad Lidge Blows A Save - 4/1

Assuming Lidge has 4 save opportunities, he will at least blow one of them. The shaky Phils closer isn't exactly automatic in the big games (think Albert Pujols' blast out of Houston a few years ago). That, combined with a potent Yankee lineup that has produced late inning dramatics this season is a combustible formula for Philly.

Mariano Rivera Blows A Save - 40/1

On the other hand, Mo Rivera is much less likely to blow a save in this series. Then again, the ghosts of 2001 might still haunt the Yankee Closer. This might be a number that would be a good bet, especially for the Yankee haters.

Ozzie Guillen Says Something Stupid - 2/1

Out of all the possible player/coach analysts to hire for the World Series, you pick this guy? Ugh. How does he still have a job as a manager, let alone a guest commentator?? Then again, maybe he's going to try to offend a different group of people during each game's coverage. Let's go through some of Ozzie's greatest hits...

About A-Rod:

"Alex was kissing Latino people's @$es. He knew he wasn't going to play for the Dominicans; he's not a Dominican!" (Boy, that just screams impartiality doesn't it.)

About Ex-Players Confessing Steroid Use

"They're full of (bleep). You know why? Whatever happens in the clubhouse stays in the clubhouse."

About Magglio Ordonez

"He's a [bleep], that's what he is. He's another Venezuelan [bleep]. [Bleep] him."

About Jay Mariotti:

"What a piece of s#*t he is, f#$^ing [bleep] (gay slur)." "He's a garbage. He's always been a garbage. And he will die a garbage." (don't ask me what "a" garbage is...)

I don't understand the appeal to this guy, he's an obnoxious, offensive, loudmouth blowhard... then again, maybe that's why he was hired.

An Ex-Indian Wins A WS Game - 1/10

Well, seeing as how the two best pitchers in this series both plied their trade in Cleveland in the not so distant past, this is a pretty certain bet. I wonder what must be going thru the minds of Cleveland fans knowing that both Lee and Sabathia are pitching Game 1 of the World Series. Better yet, I wonder what must be going thru their minds knowing that Eric Mangini is coaching the Browns. At least they still have the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!

Chances Joe Girardi Outmanages Himself - 3/1

#27 has shown a certain bad knack for wanting to manage just a lil' too much in search of title #27 for the Bronx Bombers. Especially in the late innings, there is a good chance that Girardi makes one move too many to cost the Yankees a crucial game. Oh, and that's in the AL, just wait until he gets to manage in an NL park. Oy! He might even try to send David Cone in to pitch at some point this series.

Ryan Howard Outslugs A-Rod - 5/6

We'll give Howard the slightest edge in this Titanic Battle of the Titans (redundant?). Both players have had awesome postseasons, yes, even A-Rod. But, we'll give Howard the slight edge because of the short porch in RF at Yankee Stadium. The robust lefty must be salivating over the New York bandbox.

Breaking Scoring Records - 15/1

While Philly and NY might have two of the most hitter-friendly parks in baseball, these teams will have to do some big time work to reach the meaningful run-scoring records. Of course, it was the Phillies and Blue Jays that scored 81 runs in the '93 Fall Classic. But, that record, and Game 4's 15-14 high scoring records should still feel fairly secure.

Fox Sets A Record For Worthless Camera Angles - EVEN

As if the constant band shots come bowl time were annoying enough from Fox, I suffered from vertigo while trying to watch the ALCS. In the late innings of Game 2, this was the sequence of camera shots:

Pitcher, Hitter, Fan #1, Manager, Pitcher Close Up, Fan #2, Player Scratching Himself In Dugout, On-Deck Circle, Pigeon, Blimp, Pitcher Close Up #2, Empire State Building, Hitter #2, McCarver Falling Asleep, Steinbrenner, Batman, Pitcher Close Up #3... Pitch

Maybe I should just try the radio broadcast...

Pedro Is Spooked By The Bambino - 3/1

Hmm, the number 3, hmmm. Pedro doesn't exactly have the best memories of pitching in the postseason at Yankee Stadium, and you can bet that you'll hear a "Who's Your Daddy" chant. Even though it might not be the House that Ruth Built anymore, maybe one or two of those spirits will make their way over to the new place and give Pedro a friendly hello...

A Shortstop Wins MVP - 7/1

Jeter and Rollins might be the two most clutch players on either roster. While Howard and Rodriguez might get walked and pitched around, these two might be more decisive in who wins or loses. Jeter has always come up big in October, and Rollins' key hits have been very important for the Phils in the past 2 years. Expect one of these two to step up in a huge way and lead their team to a victory.

Yankees Win, THHHEEEEEEEEEEE Yankees Win - 3/5

Well, when it is all said and done, the Yankees have to be favored to lift the trophy at the end. The Yankee bullpen and lineup has a distinct edge, and that will be enough to see the Bombers through. Of course, dealing with Lee and Hamels might be tough, but the Yankee lineup is potent enough to beat anybody. Even though the Phils are the defending champs, this isn't the Devil Rays. We've already seen the Twins and Angels melt against the Yanks, and Philly might do the same. But, most of all, the Yankees have had a sense of destiny about them all season. Whether it has been divinely arranged or not, the Yankees have always seemed like they were going to win it all this season. From the crazy wins, to A-Rod of all people producing, to their jovial behavior, all the intangibles have pointed to New York. PICK - Yankees IN 6

That's it for our full What Are The Odds Preview! Enjoy the Series and check out our own series... the Decade Series, returning very, very soon! Bye for now!