Nick McDevitt introduced as UNC Asheville head coach

Nick McDevitt, the new head basketball coach at UNC Asheville, is excited to begin his job. He was introduced to a standing-room-only crowd Friday afternoon on campus, but really needed no introduction. A large contingent of family, friends, staff and Bulldog supporters welcomed him with a standing ovation…not once, but twice.

UNC Asheville Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone made the official announcement. “We are delighted to introduce Nick McDevitt as our new head basketball coach,” stated Cone. “In the nine years I’ve worked with Nick, he has always conducted himself as a champion and a leader.

“Nick has earned this opportunity. While guiding our program this past month, he distinguished himself as the leading candidate during the search process,” added Cone. “Nick is the perfect person to continue not only our winning tradition that we have established at UNC Asheville but also to provide us with a vision and a plan for greater levels of achievement in the future.”

“This is an especially proud moment for UNC Asheville to name Nick McDevitt, a lifetime Bulldog, as our new head coach. As a four-year player who maintained a place on the Dean’s List while majoring in history, Nick has embodied how to do Division I athletics the right way,” stated UNC Asheville Chancellor Anne Ponder. “It is a testament to Nick’s work ethic and basketball IQ that he is now ready to carry on the UNC Asheville tradition of excellence. Nick is the best person to build on UNC Asheville’s momentum, and to give our young, exciting Bulldog team the leadership they need to be successful on and off the court.”

Nick McDevitt, new UNC Asheville head coach

“I want to thank Janet Cone, Chancellor Ponder and the Board of Trustees for the opportunity to continue my journey in coaching at such a wonderful place,” stated McDevitt. “UNC Asheville has a rich basketball tradition. We have been fortunate to enjoy the Eddie Biedenbach era, and I believe that we are poised to do even better greater things. I’m excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

McDevitt, humbled and excited to be the new face of Asheville basketball is no stranger to the community. He has spent half his life on the pastoral campus in North Asheville. First, as a four-year player then 12 years as an assistant coach, the last two as the associate head coach, all under former coach Eddie Biedenbach’s mentoring.

The new coach told the audience that his family has been a part of the college for over 50 years, going back to when his grandfather installed plumbing at Founders Hall. His parents went to UNC Asheville, as did his sister. McDevitt took “Super Saturday” classes on campus as a youngster, and attended basketball camps there. He kidded associate athletics director, Mike Gore, who served as his camp coach, saying they would not be teaching layups the way Gore did.

McDevitt takes over a program that represented the Big South Conference in the NCAA Tournament in 2011 and 2012, but fell short last year. His goal is to get back there. The returning players will be bolstered by the addition of two new guards. And his team will be ready for the challenge. Returning star, Keith Hornsby, is very excited to have McDevitt as his new coach. “Can’t wait to get started,” Hornsby said.

His mentor, Eddie Biedenbach said, “Nick is very deserving of this opportunity. I am very happy for him and know he’ll do a great job. Nick was an exemplary player and coach for our program and a key reason for our success.”

And even outside the Bulldog family, other head coaches are taking note. Brad Brownell, Clemson’s head coach said, “This is a great hire by UNC Asheville. Nick knows every aspect of the program as he was terrific player and coach for Asheville. He’s a bright, young coach who knows what to look for in recruits that fit in at Asheville. It will be a smooth transition for him as head coach and I am confident he’ll continue the winning tradition that Asheville has established.”

Marcus Neeley, another returning player said, “Coach McDevitt is a great leader and he’s going to take us to the next level. I know he’s ready to be a head coach. We all have a great relationship with him and can’t wait to start playing for him.”

Last summer, he was named to Asheville’s inaugural “Forty Under 40” class by the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. Nick was recognized for making a mark in the Asheville area in professional achievements and commitment to excellence.

McDevitt and two of his assistants are on the road – recruiting – for the next several days. Brett Carey and Kevin Easley appeared to be very happy the way things turned out. McDevitt said loyalty is the most important thing when you are in business or on a team, and both Carey and Easley are on-board. Madison Davis also will be continuing in his role as an assistant coach and director of basketball operations.

UNC Asheville names Nick McDevitt new basketball head coach

UNC Asheville athletics director Janet Cone this afternoon named former Bulldog guard and 12-year assistant coach Nicholas (Nick) McDevitt as their new head coach. He replaces his mentor, Eddie Biedenbach, who resigned recently to become the assistant head coach at UNC Wilmington.

McDevitt, considered the favorite among most observers including his players, beat out former Ball State head coach Billy Taylor and Charlotte assistant coach Ryan Odom, a former assistant at UNC Asheville.

New UNC Asheville head basketball coach, Nick McDevitt

“Nick has done an outstanding job as an assistant coach,” stated Biedenbach in an earlier interview. “He is a big reason for the success. He has a good rapport with our players. Nick really knows the game well and is a key part of our program. He works hard in every facet of the program.”

Nick has been a part of three Big South Conference regular-season championships and three tournament titles during his tenure. He helped lead the Bulldogs to the NCAA Tournament in 2003, 2011 and 2012, plus a trip to the NIT in 2008.

McDevitt was a four-year letterman for the Bulldogs from 1997 until 2001. He graduated in May 2001 with a degree in history. His playing time increased steadily during his career and became a key player for UNC Asheville off the bench in the 2000-01 season. He was fifth on the team in three-pointers made with 11 and led the team at 52 percent from long distance.

In addition, McDevitt enjoyed considerable success off the court. He was named to the Big South Conference All Academic team his junior and senior years and was a member of the Dean’s List four different times at UNC Asheville. He was also a member of the Big South Presidential Honor Roll three times. McDevitt was a member of the NABC (National Association of Basketball Coaches) student basketball council his junior and senior years.

In the spring of 2009, he completed the National Association of Basketball Coaches Professional Development Series (PDS) certification requirements.

McDevitt enjoyed a standout career at Madison HS in Marshall. He was the starting point guard for the Patriots for three seasons and led the 2-A school to three straight conference championships and two regional appearances. McDevitt averaged 17 points and 10 assists his senior and earned all-region honors by the Asheville Citizen-Times. In addition, he is Madison’s all-time leader in assists and steals.

“UNC Asheville is an excellent school, and I’m very proud to still be a part of it,” stated McDevitt. “I really feel fortunate to be working at a school and in a community that I know so well.

“Coach Biedenbach has taught me so much both as a player and a coach,” added McDevitt. “Each day I continue to learn more about what it takes to establish and maintain a successful Division I program.”

Nick and Lauren McDevitt were married last August.

McDevitt married the former Lauren Cooper last August.

CBSSports.com: McDevitt new UNC Asheville head coach

Until I see UNC Asheville athletics director Janet Cone announce it at 1:00 p.m. today, I will report that cbssports.com has already said current interim head coach Nick McDevitt will be named the new head coach.

According to cbssports.com, this is new UNC Asheville head basketball coach, Nick McDevitt

 

I firmly believe Nick has the job…I will post a complete article as soon as I can following the official announcement.

Carolina Panthers to face NFL’s toughest schedule in 2013

The Carolina Panthers will be facing the NFL’s toughest schedule in 2013.  They will appear in two nationally televised games during the regular season.

The Panthers host Seattle to start the season at home for the first time since 2009 when they opened in Bank of America Stadium against the Philadelphia Eagles. It will be only the second time Carolina has opened at home in the last seven seasons. The last two years, the Panthers have opened at Arizona and Tampa Bay under head coach Ron Rivera.

Carolina will play on national television twice with the first contest at Tampa Bay on the NFL Network on Thursday, October 24 and the second on ESPN Monday Night Football on November 18 against New England. It will be the Panthers first Monday Night Contest from Bank of America Stadium since hosting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in December of the 2008 season.

“We are excited to see the 2013 schedule and look forward to opening at home after being on the road to open the season the last two years,” says head coach Ron Rivera. “We knew when we saw the opponents at the end of the year, it would be a difficult schedule, but it is a challenge that has our coaches and players excited.”

For the second time in the three seasons Rivera has been at the helm for the Panthers, Carolina will play the most difficult schedule in the NFL based on winning percentage of opponents last year. Six games are against playoff teams from last year with home games versus Seattle, Atlanta, and New England and away contests at Minnesota, San Francisco, and Atlanta.

Also for the second year in a row, the bye will come early for Carolina. Last year it was in mid-October after five games and this season comes September 29 after three games.

Here is the complete schedule:

PRESEASON:

Friday Aug 9 CHICAGO BEARS                                  8:00 pm Panthers TV
Thursday Aug 15 @ Philadelphia Eagles                    7:00 pm Panthers TV
Thursday Aug 22 @ Baltimore Ravens                      8:00 pm ESPN
Thursday Aug 29 PITTSBURGH STEELERS           7:30 pm Panthers TV

REGULAR SEASON:

Sunday Sept 8 SEATTLE SEAHAWKS                      1:00 pm FOX
Sunday Sept 15 @ Buffalo Bills                                   1:00 pm FOX
Sunday Sept 22 NEW YORK GIANTS                        1:00 pm FOX
Sunday Sept 29 BYE WEEK
Sunday Oct 6 @ Arizona Cardinals                           4:05 pm FOX
Sunday Oct 13 @ Minnesota Vikings                        1:00 pm FOX
Sunday Oct 20 ST. LOUIS RAMS                             1:00 pm FOX
Thursday Oct 24 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers            8:25 pm NFLN
Sunday Nov 3 ATLANTA FALCONS                         1:00 pm FOX
Sunday Nov 10 @ San Francisco 49ers                    4:05 pm FOX
Monday Nov 18 NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS          8:40 pm ESPN
Sunday Nov 24 @ Miami Dolphins                           1:00*pm FOX
Sunday Dec 1 TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS            1:00*pm FOX
Sunday Dec 8 @ New Orleans Saints                       1:00*pm FOX
Sunday Dec 15 NEW YORK JETS                             4:05*pm CBS
Sunday Dec 22 NEW ORLEANS SAINTS                 1:00*pm FOX
Sunday Dec 29 @ Atlanta Falcons                            1:00*pm FOX

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN STANDARD TIME CAPS = HOME GAMES

*FLEX SCHEDULING LAST 7 WEEKS OF THE SEASON – POTENTIAL FOR TIME CHANGE

 

Ravens shock Broncos in double overtime; advance to AFC championship game

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones celebrates as he crosses the goal line for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game

If this was just a semi-final game, what will the AFC championship game be like? The Baltimore Ravens improbable double-overtime win at the heavily-favored Denver Broncos has everyone talking this morning.

Was it Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco’s 70-yard touchdown pass to Jacoby Jones, with 30 seconds left in regulation to tie the game? Was it Denver’s Trindon Holliday returning a punt AND a kickoff for touchdowns? Was it Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis’ dominating play (17 tackles over the nearly 77-minute game)? Was it Denver’s remarkable quarterback Peyton Manning’s bad throw, intended for Brandon Stokley, that Baltimore intercepted to set up the winning field goal?

Yes…that and more. I have seen a lot of Ravens games since they came into the league in 1996 including the 2001 Super Bowl victory over the New York Giants. I have seen them lose more than their share of games on last-second miscues (see: 2012 AFC Championship – Billy Cundiff). I have never seen a game like this.

Baltimore Ravens rookie placekicker, Justin Tucker, hits the game-winning field goal in the second overtime period.

When the best game that almost every Ravens’ player had ever been a part of was finally over, Flacco threw his hands in the air, kicker Justin Tucker emphatically pumped his fist and Lewis dropped to his knees, reduced to tears.</p

Tucker’s 47-yard field goal 1 minute and 42 seconds into the second overtime ended a thrilling and exhausting divisional round playoff game and sent the Ravens into the AFC championship game for the second straight year. The 38-35 victory over the Denver earns the Ravens a date with the winner of Sunday’s game between the New England Patriots and the Houston Texans. The AFC championship game will kickoff next Sunday at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Sunday’s winner.

“When all the emotions calm down, it will probably be one of the greatest victories in Ravens history,” said Lewis whose retirement tour moves on at least one more week.

“I’ve never seen anything like that,” said Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith who had two touchdown catches outplaying Broncos star cornerback Champ Bailey. “You play some games on Madden and you can’t even do that.”

“I always feel good about going out onto the field,” said Tucker a rookie free agent who beat out Cundiff in training camp to win the kicking job. “Not a lot of people get to do this. This is a heck of a lot of fun.”

Denver entered the game with an 11-game winning streak, just three weeks removed from a 34-17 trouncing of the Ravens in Baltimore. But this time, in sub-zero wind chills, in Denver, the Ravens had their team healthy…and looked at times like they were playing with nothing to lose. That’s what being a 9-1/2 point underdog will do to you.

The face of the Baltimore franchise, Lewis, gets at least another week of working out, not that he’s unhappy about that. “I’ve never been a part of a game so crazy in my life,” he said.

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis shakes hands Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) after the Ravens won 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff game.

And Manning summed it up like this: “I wouldn’t say I was shocked. That’s not the right word. I’m disappointed.” As is all of Denver and their legions of fans. This was the most heartbreaking loss by the Broncos since losing to the Jacksonville Jaguars in a second-round playoff game at old Mile High Stadium after the 1996 season.

Bailey had a tough game. “I’m not surprised we lost,” Bailey said. “That’s a good football team. What I’m surprised about is how we made it a little easier for them.

“We preached all week: Don’t give up the deep ball, don’t turn the ball over. That’s the way they’ve been winning games. That’s the way they won tonight.”

“It is my fault,” Broncos safety Rahim Moore said. “I just misjudged it,” Moore said. “I let it go over my head, first of all, and I didn’t do what I do best, which is watch the flight of the ball.” The pass sailed over Moore’s head, right into Jones’ arms. Touchdown: 35-35. Moore was on the verge of tears after the game. “The loss, it was my fault,” Moore said. “I got a little too happy. It was pathetic. My fault. Next time I’ll make that play.”

“That’s the way Flacco throws. He throws them up like that,” Bailey said. “They are hard to judge. I know that’s a play Rahim will make 99 times out of 100, so I’m not going to lose any sleep over it.”

“If they wouldn’t have scored on us on the last play, we’d be in here rejoicing,” Moore said. “So if people don’t like me after that, I’m sorry. That is my fault, and I’m going to take full responsibility for it.”

The offensive line of Baltimore played one of its best games of the year – tackles Bryant McKinnie and Michael Oher combined to allow one total sack. Flacco completed 18-of-34 passes for 331 yards and three touchdowns. “Maybe people will stop underestimating Joe finally,” McKinnie said. “This could be the turning point in his career. People need to stop underestimating Joe and give him a little more respect.”

Flacco hit Smith for touchdowns of 59 and 32 yards, the latter one tying the game at 21 heading into the halftime. The two teams combined for 28 points in the game’s first 11 minutes, a torrid pace that started with Holliday’s 90-yard punt return touchdown and included Corey Graham’s 39-yard interception return for a touchdown.

In the fourth quarter, trying to tie the game, Flacco drove them down to the Broncos’ 31. However, back-to-back drops — the first by Jacoby Jones on third down and the second by Dennis Pitta on fourth down — turned the ball over on downs. The Ravens did force the Broncos to punt, but they still had their ball on their own 23 with no timeouts and just over a minute to play.

With 30 seconds left and 70 yards to traverse in order to have the opportunity to tie the game and send it into overtime, the Denver faithful, who had been celebrating ever since the Broncos went ahead midway through the fourth quarter, were as unprepared for what was to come as the Denver secondary.

Enter Jacoby Jones.

“I told myself that Joe might throw me the ball so I better haul but off the line,” Jones said.

After it was over, running back Ray Rice declared the Ravens “the team of destiny.”

“Just think about it,” he said. “You give up two special teams touchdowns and the way Peyton played, odds says we’re going to lose, but I think we’re the only group of people that believed that we could get it done, and we did it.”

The Ravens rushed for 155 yards on 39 carries, 131 of them gained on 30 carries by Pro Bowl running back Rice.

“Our offense goes through Joe,” said Rice, who scored one touchdown. “So when Joe plays at a high level like that, it makes everything a lot smoother. The way Joe was throwing the ball set up the running game in the second half. We were able to churn up yards in the running game because of the way Joe was on point.”

Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco out-played Denver’s Peyton Manning

“Joe made spectacular throws,” rookie offensive guard Kelechi Osemele said. “We all know he has it in him.”

Flacco hasn’t turned the ball over since the first Broncos game.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh has now been to the AFC championship game in three of his five seasons and while he abhors comparisons, it’s hard to imagine a more rewarding trip than this.

“That was one of the best football games you’re ever going to see,” Harbaugh said. “That football game did the game of football proud. I’m just proud and grateful to have an opportunity to be part of this game. Our guys did not crack.” Perspectives on any player are going to evolve and that’s part of the process for any young quarterback. You look at one of the greatest to ever play the game that was on the other side today [Manning] and if you look back, the perspective on him as evolved over the years. Joe’s going to be like that, like any other quarterback. I’m proud of him.”

As a result, the Ravens boarded a plane on Saturday evening for a long trip home, knowing that they still have more football left to play.

Will more respect accompany the achievement for Flacco? “Joe has been taking heat for years and years,” Pro Bowl fullback Vonta Leach said. “He led our team. He showed everybody watching that game that he is an elite quarterback. He went out and proved it.”

“It was amazing. All the crazy stuff that went on — a punt return, a kick return — nobody flinched, man,” safety Bernard Pollard said. “Everybody stayed the path and that was good for us. We’re excited not to be packing our locker room up and going home.”

As for the Broncos, who entered the playoffs as the number one seed, a disappointing end to a spectacular season. Manning was better than anyone would have thought. Each week, this team seemed to get better and more intuitive. If you had said to me would the Ravens beat the Broncos if a) the Ravens were playing on a short week; b) the Ravens had to travel cross-country to play at altitude in Denver; c) the Ravens special teams would give up both a punt return and a kickoff return for touchdowns, the answer would have been absolutely not. But that’s why they play the games. Not one person I spoke to was taking the Ravens to outright win the game. Many were taking the 9-1/2 points, but no sane person said they would win.

Now, Denver licks its wounds, Baltimore prepares for New England or Houston next Sunday evening. Personally, I hope it’s New England, and I hope Baltimore finds a way to upset the Patriots to get to the Super Bowl. I thought Denver would have had a good shot at it…but now, let’s go Ravens!

 

NFL Playoffs: AFC Shootout – Baltimore Ravens at Denver Broncos

In an AFC Divisional showdown, the Denver Broncos, winners of 11 games in a row, host the Baltimore Ravens Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET, CBS) in what should be the final game in Ravens’ linebacker Ray Lewis’ career. I said should be…based on a lot of facts and figures.

Baltimore Ravens’ Ray Lewis performs his pregame ritual before an AFC wild-card playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts at M&T Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, on Sunday, January 6, 2013. Lewis announced his retirement early this week.

Before I get into the analysis of Saturday’s game, allow me one quick word about Lewis and one about the nickname for Baltimore’s team. Out of the University of Miami, he was the first player ever drafted by Baltimore…just before the team had a name. Ozzie Newsome, picked Lewis, and 17 years later, he certainly made the right decision.

FACTOID THAT YOU PROBABLY DON’T KNOW: In a fan-based vote, the name Ravens won out over the NFL-preferred name Rhinos (seriously) and a local name, Bombers (because Baltimore was where many bombers were built for WWII). There were also two others, but they escape me now.

Now, my analysis: These two teams played in Week 15 in Baltimore (11-6, first in the AFC North), with Denver (13-3, first in the AFC West), winning handily, 34-17. The Broncos led 34-3 before the Ravens scored two meaningless touchdowns to make it look like a competitive game. It wasn’t. But remember, Lewis, the face-of-the-franchise, was not playing that day, recovering from his injured triceps. Bernard Pollard, a quality Ravens safety, was also inactive three weeks ago. So why would I think playing in Denver will result in any other decision. Unfortunately, as a Ravens fan, I don’t. Denver has been the hottest team in the league, winning 11 in a row and improving weekly under the guidance of Peyton Manning.

One problem with their schedule has been the fact that is was weak. They lost three games – the toughest games they played (at Atlanta, home against Houston, and at New England). If there were an NCAA-type committee looking at their schedule, it would look like cupcake city. That’s NOT their fault…but playing Kansas City, Oakland and San Diego twice, the depleted New Orleans Saints, catching the Carolina Panthers when they were really struggling…you get my drift. Yes, they beat a decent Cincinnati team, but, still…

The Broncos are not gloating about anything. “I think it’s going to be a lot harder than when we faced them the first time,” Broncos and former Ravens receiver Brandon Stokley said Sunday night. “They had a lot of injuries, especially defensively. I think a lot of those guys are back now. When they’ve got all their guys, they’ve got a great defense, especially in the red zone. And that’s what hurt Indy.”

Denver is second in the league in scoring (to New England) with 30.1 points per game. The problem for Baltimore, as I see it is the fact that they just gave up 419 yards to Indianapolis, with a rookie (albeit a great one) quarterback running a “conventional” offense. In fact, it was the sixth time this season the formerly-great Ravens D has allowed 400-plus yards. The difference now, is that the Ravens offense can score in many ways.

Denver, to me, has an advantage offensively vs. Baltimore’s defense…Manning and the Broncos run a no-huddle offense…although they only gained 350 yards against Baltimore last time out.

So here you have it…the Ray Lewis-provided inspiration going up against the Peyton Manning-led offense. Denver has lost just one game at home this season, in Week 3 against Houston, before Manning hit his stride. What a challenge lays ahead for the purple-clad visitors.

“I’m really looking forward to [next week's game]” said Baltimore receiver Anquan Boldin, who led the Ravens with five catches for a team-playoff record 145 yards, including a game-sealing, fourth-quarter, 18-yard touchdown grab. “I was hoping we would get them. So, they’ll see us next week.”

And what’s going to be different this time? “We’ll make it different,” Boldin said, before exiting the postgame stage last Sunday.

Last Sunday the Ravens provided the home-crowd with a promising look at a defense that bent, but did not break, against rookie quarterback Andrew Luck. Facing Manning on Saturday will prove to be a bit different.

“In the playoffs, you play great teams,” said the Ravens’ John Harbaugh (pictured below), after securing a playoff victory for the record fifth year in a row, his first five as an NFL head coach. “I like the fact that our team has been here before. We’ve made this six-day turnaround road trip three other times. This will be our fourth time in five years playing a [playoff] road game on a short week. So we know how to do that.

“We’ve got a lot of respect for [the Broncos]. Denver came in here and played really well against us and beat us pretty good,” the coach continued. “We’re looking forward to the opportunity to go play them again.

“You can’t play a 60-minute football game on emotion,” Harbaugh said. “You’ve got to go play football. You’ve got to go play well. To me, you just don’t do that emotionally. Emotion wears out really fast. So, we’ll carry that forward. We’ll still be emotional and enthusiastic, but the fact that we played well, that’s what’s important.

The Ravens’ pass rush was their best weapon against Luck, sending multiple-look blitzes at the rookie. Manning has seen them all. And the Broncos’ offensive line will NOT confuse anyone with Indy’s. They have allowed just 21 sacks this season, second-fewest in the league.

Manning has a stellar 2-0 record against Baltimore in the playoffs, and should be looking forward to matching up with the Ravens once again. The winner gets a date in the Jan. 20 AFC Championship Game. Saturday, it’s Lewis vs. Manning. The greatest linebacker and quarterback of their NFL generation. Squaring off one more time. With the same, old feeling.

Lewis, for one, is looking forward to playing against Manning one last time. “They are always classic,” Lewis said of his career matchups with Manning. “I will tell you that. It’s just one of those chess matches. He knows me very well. I know him very well. I think just for me and him back colliding; [but] at the end of the day, it’s not about me and Peyton. It’s about their team against our team. I just like our team. I love our team right now, and I am really looking forward to going out there and playing them next week.”

Lewis has been called by teammates, coaches and even opponents one of the game’s most effective leaders. The impact of such an emotional leader cannot be overvalued, Broncos coach John Fox said Monday.

“There are people on teams that raise all boats, raise all levels,” Fox (above) said. “They can inspire. He does that.”

Lewis, 37, has lost some speed and sometimes struggles in space, but he recorded a team-best 13 tackles Sunday despite wearing a brace on his right arm.

“This is a game of passion, emotion and enthusiasm,” said Broncos linebacker Keith Brooking, a 15-year veteran. “A lot plays into that. If you’re a team that goes into a game with just that (emotion) and doesn’t run real deep in your preparation and attention to detail, that all fades quickly once toe meets leather.

“But when you’re a player of Ray Lewis’ magnitude, his leadership doesn’t start on game day. His leadership starts throughout the course of the week. That runs deep through their team. They’re a reflection of that.”

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis took a victory lap around Baltimore’s M&T Stadium last Sunday. He had just played his final game in his home stadium.

The Ravens want to atone for their loss to Denver three weeks ago, and relish the opportunity to do it at Mile High. “If you’ve ever been in a fight with somebody and they beat you, you want to fight again,” said Baltimore offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie, throwing back the shoulders on his 6-foot-8, 354-pound frame to appear as intimidating as humanly possible.

Denver’s players certainly understand the psychology of the underdog team trying to make good on a past poor performance. “Definitely, (the Ravens) have a lot to prove, but we still have a lot to prove,” Broncos cornerback Chris Harris said Monday. “We know the playoffs are where you make your name. Our goal is to win a Super Bowl, and they’re standing in the way of our goal.”

Another linebacker who wears Number 52…Denver’s Wesley Woodyard

“Of course they’re going to be amped up this weekend,” Broncos linebacker Wesley Woodyard said. “But it’s a playoff game, and everybody’s emotions are going to be running high.”

Asked Monday what he thought the Ravens’ approach would be Saturday against the Broncos’ defense, linebacker Wesley Woodyard said: “Same scheme, same mentality: Try to bully you, try to come in and run the ball right down your throat.”

In that 34-17 beat-down three weeks ago, you have to wonder if there are any emotional scars on the Ravens? “He (Manning) didn’t put his hands on me or nothing like that,” joked Ed Reed, the Baltimore defender with nine Pro Bowl seasons on his résumé and more than a few flecks of gray in his beard.

“We know what we got. (The Broncos) know what we got. We’re going down there with all our weapons and all our tools. And we’re coming to bang.”

Tale of the Tape:

Baltimore strengths: The Ravens’ offense is diverse, with the ability to pound the ball in the running game and throw the ball down the field in the passing game. Rookie Bernard Pierce (103 yards on 13 carries Sunday against the Colts) gained at least 1,300 yards and averaged more than 5 yards per carry in two of his three seasons at Temple. He gives the Ravens a speed-size option in the running game to go with Ray Rice. When veteran QB Joe Flacco gets support from the running game, he’s a tough out. Flacco has thrown for at least 282 yards in seven games this season, all wins.This, plus the Ravens have won playoff games on the road and in cold weather (at New England). It is expected to be 20 degrees in Denver on Saturday.

Baltimore’s weakness: The Ravens’ defense gave up 419 yards to the Colts on Sunday, including 152 rushing. It was the sixth time this season the Ravens allowed at least 400 total yards and the sixth time they allowed at least 160 rushing. Baltimore has struggled to control the line of scrimmage all season, especially when opponents are able to keep star defensive tackle Haloti Ngata away from the action. This, plus the Ravens are playing this game on a short-week (6 days). They will fly into Denver Thursday night to acclimate to the altitude.

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning could be the league’s MVP and the Comeback Player of the Year.

Denver’s strengths: Peyton Manning. And a better-than-you-think defense. How the Ravens handle the no-huddle offense should be the tale of the game. If Manning has his way, he will dink-and-dunk down the field. Limiting the Ravens offense playing time will just hurt the Ravens defense. Playing at 5,280 feet at 35 years of age (or older) could also play a huge role. This, plus they are playing on a week’s rest, at home, and are used to playing at the 5,280 foot altitude.

Denver’s weakness: Relatively untested team in the playoffs (under Manning). Yes, I remember last year when Tim Tebow shocked the Pittsburgh Steelers with one pass, but this is a different team. I think they are a better team, but playing an emotional veteran team like the Ravens could be their undoing. This, plus maybe, just maybe, Denver is looking past Baltimore (mistake). I cannot believe this would be the case, because, seriously, Baltimore COULD upset Denver and beat New England (presumed winner Sunday) to atone for last year’s loss.

Key to victory: With guard Chris Kuper and offensive tackle Ryan Clady dealing with injuries, protecting quarterback Peyton Manning will be the No. 1 issue the Broncos face. The Ravens blitzed Colts rookie Andrew Luck a lot Sunday, sacking him three times. If the Ravens are convinced Denver’s offensive line is banged up, they will send extra pass rushers after Manning. That’s their best hope of slowing Denver’s offense. In order to have any chance in this game, the Ravens MUST slow Manning down and get him out of the pocket with blitz packages.

Who wins: Denver beats the Ravens, in a closer game than three weeks ago. Call it Denver 23 Baltimore 13.

From our friends at the worldwide leader, ESPN, here are eight notes, nuggets and numbers you need to know heading into the matchup:

●Final Four Repeat
According to the Elias Sports Bureau, all four remaining AFC teams reached the Divisional round last season, the first time ever the same teams were the “Final Four” in a conference in back-to-back seasons.

●Ravens’ Recent Playoff Success
The Ravens have won a playoff game in each of the past five seasons, just the sixth team in NFL history to pull off that feat. In the process Joe Flacco became the first quarterback ever to win a playoff game in each of his first five seasons.

●Flacco Likes the Road
Flacco is 4-4 on the road in eight playoff starts. Eli Manning (five) is the only starting quarterback with more road wins in the postseason.

●QBR Leader
Flacco led all quarterbacks last weekend with a Total QBR of 89.5, nearly double his regular-season QBR of 46.8. That was by far the largest increase in Total QBR of the eight quarterbacks who started last weekend.

●Rookie Running Wild
Bernard Pierce ran for 103 yards last week, the second Ravens rookie with 100 rushing yards in a playoff game. Jamal Lewis did it twice in the 2000 playoffs, the year the Ravens won their only Super Bowl title.

●Postseason Veteran
Peyton Manning is making his 12th postseason appearance, tied with Brett Favre for the most in NFL history by a starting quarterback.

Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco (left) and Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning are respected leaders.

●Manning and Broncos Going Streaking
Manning has won nine straight starts against the Ravens, including the playoffs. That’s the second-longest active winning streak by a quarterback over a particular opponent. Coincidentally, Flacco has won 10 straight against the Cleveland Browns, the only active streak longer than Manning’s over the Ravens.

The Broncos have won 11 straight games, the longest active win streak in the NFL and their longest since opening the 1998 season 13-0. They won the Super Bowl that season.

●Home Field Advantage
The Broncos are 13-3 all-time at home in the playoffs, which is tied for the second-best home playoff record (minimum of five games).

Season Result Site
1996 Broncos W, 45-34, Denver
2000 *Ravens W, 21-3, Baltimore
2001 Ravens W, 20-13, Denver
2002 Ravens W, 34-23, Baltimore
2003 Ravens W, 26-6, Baltimore
2005 **Broncos W, 12-10, Denver
2006 Broncos W, 13-3, Denver
2009 Ravens W, 30-7, Baltimore
2010 Ravens W, 31-17, Baltimore
2012 **Broncos W, 34-17, Baltimore
*AFC wild-card playoff game
** Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis did not play because of injury.

Tragedy and Sports: 60 Years of Memories

After the shocking events of Friday, it was hard to think of sports this weekend. But we did, anyway. This will be my last column for the year…and the last one I will write as a 50-something. On Sunday, I turn 60 and I am not looking forward to it, but, to quote my late father, Robert, “It’s better than the alternative.” He was right.

President Obama speaking at Newtown High School Sunday night

Friday’s tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School was as bad as it gets. When and more importantly, how, will we stop this from happening again. Watching the President last night, I think he’s had enough. I don’t know that gun control is the answer. Maybe we need to have those TSA-type scanners at every public gathering place – schools, malls, movies, houses of worship. I will leave that question to those much smarter than myself. And if you don’t think things will change, I believe you are wrong.

Innocence Lost

To know that those twenty innocent kindergarteners in Connecticut will not experience life is tragic. As it is for those teachers and the brave principal. While the adults lived a longer life, they too were taken way too early. For those beautiful children, however, this is what they will not experience: No graduations. No proms. No college acceptance (or rejection) letters. No lost (and found) loves. No weddings. No children of their own. Need I go on?

I absolutely cannot fathom how their parents, siblings, relatives and friends can find anything to be happy about during this most festive of seasons. You know there were presents bought…trees put up…stocking hung…I cannot imagine coming home and seeing those reminders. My heart breaks for those people…but I feel absolutely nothing for the shooter. I just think the media needs to STOP showing these murderers’ pictures and telling us their names. Who cares? We should be showing those little children and telling their names.

Turning 60 means I have seen a lot of good and bad events in my lifetime. I distinctly remember watching the Cuban Missile Crisis playing out; the day President Kennedy was shot; the day MLK was shot; the morning Robert Kennedy was shot; Vietnam; the Challenger explosion; John Lennon; 9/11, and the Virginia Tech massacre…do I need to go on? But, unfortunately, that’s part of growing old…you tend to remember where you were when you heard the news.

Grief stricken, but fans paid tribute to Newtown at Sunday night’s 49ers-Patriots game in Foxboro

And more recently, I have begun going to more funerals than I wish. I lost my mother, Edith, 15 years ago, at a young age. Just last February, I lost my father…who I know lost a lot of his lust for life when my mother was taken from him so tragically. And this fall, my best friend and his wife each lost their mothers…within two weeks of each other. It ain’t fun growing old, my friends.

In my 60 years, I have always had a strong connection with sports. From the professional level down to the youth level, sports has played a big part of my life. I reveled in championships won by teams I played for and coached…knowing they really meant nothing in the big picture. Other than saying for one season, things came together and we got a few breaks and ended up winning it all. I had the good fortune to coach my son, Matt, in baseball for many years. Our team won a championship game the way most in youth baseball are won…someone else made a mistake. A routine (yet longish) fly ball to the opposite field became a grand slam instead of the third out. Moving Matt from catcher to center field (a position he had never played before) in the last inning of that game was either a stroke of genius or pure luck. He ended up making the play of the game, throwing out the tying run on the best throw of his life. Am I saying he won the game for us…no…he put our team in a position to win. And, in sports, and business too, that’s what you want. To be in a position to win.

When I was an associate publisher of a national trade newspaper, my goal was to beat the competition. While we hardly ever went into a presentation together, but I would ready myself for the pitch as if they would be there. I usually made the sale, because I was prepared. I was in a position to win…I knew the questions they would ask me before they knew them. Sports prepared me for the business world.

The Kraft family is donating $25,000 to Newtown.

Last season, I watched, along with millions, as UNC Asheville’s basketball team scared the daylights out of the number one seed in the East, Syracuse in the second round of the NCAA basketball tournament. In the final two minutes of the game, Asheville lead. The Bulldogs put themselves in a position to become the first 16-seed to beat a 1-seed. However, a missed call by the officials gave Syracuse the ball, changed the momentum and denied Asheville the opportunity to possibly win the game. They were in the position to win, though.

Turning 60 means I have seen EVERY Super Bowl played. EVERY ONE. Even in those dark years living in Baltimore when the city didn’t have an NFL team (and yes, I actually saw the Mayflower moving vans drive by my neighborhood on that early March morning when the Colts were hijacked to Indianapolis). The Super Bowl was the ONLY NFL game I watched those years. I found things to do on Sunday’s other than watch the league. And, you can check it out, television ratings during the regular season in Baltimore plunged…because we didn’t have a team. No wonder no one in Los Angeles is concerned about not having a team…there is a lot more to do out there than in Baltimore…yet the league seems bound and determined to make that happen soon (2014?).

Herm Edwards said so eloquently, “You play to win the game.”  Turning 60 means I understand that. But sometimes, you need to suffer losses to really revel in the wins.

I have spent this weekend with one of UNC Asheville’s basketball players. He was not able to join his team for their 8-day road trip to Ohio State, Northeastern and St. John’s. We spent yesterday in the hospital, where he was having surgery performed on his ankle…for the second time this year. He absolutely hates not being there for his teammates…his brothers…because he could certainly help this young Bulldogs team a lot. You can see it in his face…he’s hurting a lot more from this than from the pain of the surgery. He will appreciate not only the wins next season, but the losses as well. He will prepare for harder for next season because he cannot play this year.

And that’s what I love about sports. The fact that you go into games and practices together…you win or lose together. And you stay friends with a lot of your teammates forever.

Sports has a way of healing. The baseball games played after the 9/11 attacks were meaningful in a lot more ways than just a game in the standings. In New York, especially, it brought back a sense of normality. Playing this weekend, we saw the Patriots and Giants wearing tributes to the Connecticut tragedy. Tonight, the Jets will do the same.

The Giants helmet tribute

So, after a little rambling, here’s what I really remember about my 60 years of being involved with sports: everything. I remember so many of the baseball games I attended…seeing some of the greatest players in history – in person…I remember seeing the Immaculate Reception on a small black-and-white television in my cousin’s apartment…I remember the first Super Bowl (not called that, by the way)…I remember the great Bird-Magic match-ups…I remember the Miracle on Ice…so many events that I won’t bore you. But when magazines or television programs talk about the “best ever” or “greatest game ever”, you can be assured I probably saw them (or it).I also remember knowing all the statistics for every player on my favorite teams when I was young. My father told me he used to know them when he was young, but had little use for them now. I didn’t quite believe him…but I certainly do now. I do not memorize stats anymore because, well, I have little use for them now. I also remember he was not much of a sports fan, but he did take me to games…something those 20 innocent, beautiful children will never get a chance to do.

Big Ten Conference Expansion: A Maryland fan’s perspective

The University of Maryland’s move from the ACC to the Big Ten Conference has been debated, discussed and analyzed. I have a unique East Coast perspective that I would like to share with you.

You see, I have been through conference realignment already. This year, my Alma Mater, the University of Missouri moved from the Big 12 Conference to the SEC…and I had some real issues with it…as did hundreds of thousands of Mizzou grads, students and supporters. One thing I liked was that since I live in Asheville, NC, I could now attend Mizzou games – easily. This year we saw the Tigers play at South Carolina (a two hour drive from home) and at Tennessee (less than two hours). Next season, we can go to Georgia (three hours), Kentucky (5 hours) and Vanderbilt (four hours).

When Mizzou announced they were leaving the Big 12, after being a member in it my entire life, it hurt…and it’s going to hurt those friends of the turtle in 2014 who have only known ACC rivalries.  Going to your school for a game, or travelling on the road, brings you back to a time in your life that really wasn’t too bad. All you did was go to class, study, go out, drink, maybe work a part-time job (waiting tables in a sorority…okay!). So it kind of brings you back to that mind-set when things were simpler than they are not.

For me, Mizzou’s move to the SEC meant the end to rivalries such as Mizzou-Kansas basketball or football games… Mizzou-Oklahoma (U. or State) football games…Mizzou-Nebraska (already left the conference earlier) football games. And my Maryland friends will go through this starting in 2014. No more Maryland-Duke basketball…no more Maryland-North Carolina basketball…no more Maryland-Virginia ANYTHING. And that’s where it will hurt.

Two weeks ago, I met with Todd McCubbin, the Mizzou Alumni Director, at the UT tailgate. He told me that while Mizzou used to get 600 – 800 fans travelling to Iowa State, for instance, this year, with the lure of the best football in the nation, he has seen 6,000 – 8,000 fans at road games (many buying tickets from Mizzou). In fact, the demand was so great for the Tennessee game, the Alumni tailgate party had to be moved from a large indoor facility to an even larger tented facility on the parking lot of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

So even with Mizzou mired deep down in the SEC East standings, fans are coming…and that translates into more people joining the Missouri Alumni Association and travelling to games…MORE MONEY FOR ALL!

So I understand how things are going to go with Maryland and the Big Ten Conference. To begin with, neither conference looks like they did when I was in school. Expansion…and chasing the almighty dollar…have changed the face of not only the ACC and Big Ten, but every other conference in the country. Even the Big South Conference has expanded, adding Longwood University to its membership, and, in fact, has gone to two divisions for basketball.

Simply put, Maryland (and Rutgers) have moved to the Big Ten for money…and the conference added these two fine East Coast-based schools for…you guessed it…money. The Big Ten Network sees two huge markets – Baltimore/D.C. and New York – with dollar signs in their eyes. The more cable subscribers (at $1.10 per subscriber on basic cable) they can get, the more money they make. Here’s how that works:

The owner of a cable network — such as the Big Ten Network — receives a fee from each distributor (your cable or satellite company) for each subscriber. These fees range from a few cents to an industry estimate of $5 per month per subscriber for ESPN. (That’s just ESPN. All the other ESPN channels command their own lower-but-not-unsubstantial monthly fee.) Industry insiders talking about how television has impacted college football said the BTN commands about a dime a month for cable subscribers outside the Big Ten’s geographic footprint and about $1.10 a month for subscribers inside the Big Ten footprint, where BTN lives in the expanded basic package on most cable systems.

By adding Maryland, BTN could likely get placement in the expanded basic package by cable systems serving millions of subscribers. The television markets in Washington and Baltimore — the two that would be considered Maryland’s local markets — contain about 3.4 million television households. If the league can negotiate with cable and satellite providers to get $1 more per subscriber for three million subscribers in the market, that would generate an additional $3 million per month, or $36 million per year. This is before the first ad gets sold. Rutgers is a bit more complicated. New Jersey doesn’t exist as a TV market; its population is included mostly in the New York and Philadelphia markets. It is highly doubtful the BTN would be in such demand that it would go on expanded basic for the 10.3 million households in those markets, but less than a fifth of that number would generate an additional $24 million per year. At those (very conservative) numbers, Maryland and Rutgers would pay for themselves. They also will allow the Big Ten to move into areas where the population is growing instead of shrinking

Yes, it’s that simple. Money makes the world go round.

Maryland’s unique football uniforms – love ‘em or hate ‘em – are made by Under Armour

Many of the current student-athletes in College Park are bitter, and have been doing a lot of tweeting about it. Some said they would never have gone to Maryland if not for the rivalries with the ACC teams. Others said they will never give a dime back to the school because of this. We’ll see what really happens.

ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt, a Maryland grad, and one of the network’s leading personalities (and board member at Maryland’s Journalism school) said he is hurt…but his love for the school makes this acceptable. Accepting more money was apparently, very important to Maryland (and Rutgers). Just this year, Maryland dropped seven sports…not enough money to go around.

This happened because the Terrapins athletics department was in a financial mess. Before she abruptly left Maryland for N.C. State, then-Athletics Director Debbie Yow (and the board) approved an ill-conceived growth plan to expand Byrd Stadium, the venerable home for Maryland football (and occasionally lacrosse). And why not? The school was enjoying success on the gridiron (Orange Bowl, Peach Bowl, ACC titles) and on the court (2002 NCAA champs). The economy was good…but as we all know, in 2008, just when the suites were ready for sale, everything changed. And know this…Maryland is in a PROFESSIONAL SPORTS MARKET. They face tremendous competition from the Washington Redskins, Capitals, Wizards, Nationals and, yes, even D.C. United’s soccer team. Oh…and right down the road, more competition comes from the Baltimore Ravens and Orioles. There are only so many entertainment dollars to go around. (And, when the plan was approved, the Washington Nationals did not exist…further shrinking the pie.)

Taking on considerable debt to build new suites and expand Tyser Tower (for the high-rollers and the press) and renovate the stadium has been a disaster. It looks great…but many suites are unsold. The mess continued with the uncalled-for firing of football coach Ralph Friedgen, who has been enjoying his retirement because he is still getting millions from the school. New coach Randy Edsall may have been a very poor hire. He lost a lot of football players…didn’t like his tough ways…and has lost a lot of games in his two seasons as coach.

The bottom line is this: Maryland will make more money in the Big Ten. So will Rutgers, which is expected to announce its move Tuesday. Maryland’s athletic department is in a financial crisis now because it doesn’t take a subsidy from the university. With more money flowing in, it should never have to ask for one. That’s one less thing Maryland’s students and taxpayers will have to pay for in the future. In the ACC, Maryland could expect to make between $20-25 million per year from the league. In the Big Ten, which has its own cable network and probably will set a new all-time high when it renegotiates its Tier 1 television rights in a few years, the distribution will be closer to $40 million a year beginning in 2017. Maryland’s proud history as a charter member of the ACC means little at a time when universities must cherish every dollar they can get. The math is pretty simple. The Big Ten offers a better deal than the ACC. “We’re still living paycheck to paycheck,” Maryland president Wallace Loh said Monday. “What membership in the Big Ten does is allow us to truly guarantee the financial stability of Maryland athletics for a long, long, long time.”

More money will allow Maryland to handle that debt and meet its budget without taking more money from taxpayers or students. Some schools in big-revenue conferences such as the Big Ten and the SEC actually give money back to the academic side after balancing their budgets. This is obviously a better arrangement.

But still, there is the matter of the $50 million ACC exit fee. I don’t expect Maryland to pay the full amount. In most of these realignment cases, the school has negotiated the exit fee down. That doesn’t mean Maryland will pay nothing, though. The Terrapins will have to come up with a significant chunk of change on the front end to make more on the back end. Here’s a link to this story about Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank cashing in $64.5 million in stock. (Plank was a walk-on for the Terps football team and today, Under Armour is the official outfitter – for better or worse – of the Maryland athletics program…and many more.)

The bottom line advice I can give to my Maryland friends…and to those of you in Big Ten country wondering why in the world this is happening (and we know you wanted Notre Dame…)…my advice is to embrace the change. And, when your team plays at Maryland, plan to spend several days…it only takes a few minutes to ride the Metro from College Park to downtown D.C. Make a vacation out of it…the tailgate will be fun…and, I’m guessing many travelling folks will enjoy the outcome of the football game in Byrd Stadium.  Maybe not in 2014, but hopefully soon thereafter, Big Ten folks will learn to “Fear the Turtle!”

Carolina Panthers dismiss General Manager Marty Hurney

This is the official Carolina Panthers press release discussing the firing of General Manager Marty Hurney Monday morning:

Carolina Panthers Owner/Founder Jerry Richardson announced Monday that General Manager Marty Hurney has been relieved of his duties. Hurney had been general manager of the Panthers since 2002.

Carolina Panthers General Manager Marty Hurney was dismissed Monday morning

“This was an extremely difficult decision,” said Richardson. “Marty made every effort to bring success to the Panthers and took the team to a Super Bowl and two NFC championship games. Unfortunately, we have not enjoyed the success we hoped for in recent years. I have the greatest respect and admiration for Marty and will always appreciate the way he tirelessly served the organization.”

Hurney was general manager when the Panthers went to the 2003 Super Bowl and the NFC championship games in the 2003 and 2005 seasons as well as winning the NFC South Division in 2008.

“I am very fortunate to have been a part of one of the best organizations in the NFL since 1998,” says Hurney. “As General Manager I will always regret not helping us win the Super Bowl or having back-to-back winning seasons. I hope this change starts accomplishing the direction to those goals. I understand this decision by Mr. Richardson and will always have an extremely close relationship with him. I consider him the best owner in the NFL. I am responsible for everybody in coaching, the players, the scouts and everybody in football operations. After six weeks, we are 1-5 coming off a 6-10 season.”

NFL Week 6: Against the spread

Last week, we did very well against the spread, which is hard to do. This column hopefully gives you a little insight to Week 6, starting with Thursday night’s game going through Monday night. Enjoy!

THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL:

If he passes for 300 or more yards, Ben Roethlisberger will surpass Terry Bradshaw’s club record for passing yards

Pitt -6 at Tennessee: The Steelers are 2-2 and need to not lose more games if they are going to contend (beat) Baltimore for the AFC North title. This is an eminently winnable game on the road. Ben Roethlisberger has a chance to break Terry Bradshaw’s career passing yards record for the franchise (needs 300 yards). The Steelers prevail.

SUNDAY LEANS:

Baltimore -3.5 over Dallas: Because the game is in Baltimore, I like the ravens. The Cowboys have not been very good this year…2-2…or this century…98-98 (regular season). Surprisingly, people still like Tony Romo, who is a good, but not great quarterback. His best target, Dez Bryant, is not consistent. I like Joe Flacco to Torrey Smith and company more. Baltimore has a 13-game winning streak at M&T Stadium in the Inner Harbor of Baltimore! It grows to 14 Sunday.

Tim Tebow (15) and Mark Sanchez (6) – the two-headed quarterback duo for the New York Jets

Indianapolis +3 at New York Jets: I’d like it more if the Colts were the home team, but against the Jets, coming off a highly-emotional game Monday night (close loss to Houston)…dealing with the Tim Tebow thing…and the chaos it has created (wow…didn’t see THAT coming…), Indy keeps plugging along and wins a close one. The Jets are a beat-up team and offensively-challenged. No receivers for the quarterbacks (and how much confidence do you think Mark Sanchez has today?) to throw to. Against Houston, at times it looked like they just grabbed a couple of guys from the stands. Personally, I would put Tebow in for every offensive snap. The guy just has something…he certainly isn’t an NFL-type quarterback (he would be great in Canada), but he is a bull. We might get more Tebow this week, but the Colts are playing much better than I would have thought.

Tampa Bay -4 over Kansas City: I would have gone the other way if Matt Cassel had not suffered a concussion last week in the Chiefs 9-6 loss to the Ravens…but Brady Quinn starting for the first time in four years is a stretch. He gets a chance to play against a not-so-good team, and that’s a plus. For the Bucs, Josh Freeman (54.6% pass completion) needs to get better…and fast. He has really regressed from his play of last season. He needs to find his receivers, including the outstanding Vincent Jackson, more. Let’s just go with the Bucs and see what happens.

Cincinnati PK at Cleveland: Should not be a contest. Their defense is porous…940 yards allowed in the last two weeks. Yes, Joe Haden is back at corner, but Andy Dalton will make the right throws for the Bengals. Oh, offensively, the Browns need to stop making mistakes…including the nine interceptions from rookie QB Brandon Weeden (who turned 29 this week, by the way).

Detroit +4 at Philadelphia: This will be a good one…should be under a field goal, which is why I like Detroit getting 3.5 points. Underachieving is a good word for the Lions this season. With Minnesota already at 4-1, they cannot afford many more losses. The Leos get safety Louis Delmas back nine weeks after knee surgery, so hopefully he can shore up the defense. Matthew Stafford needs to start playing like he did last year and stop the INT’s. As for Michael Vick, we know he’ll get hit…a lot…and he, too, is facing crunch time. Too many INT’s, not enough TD’s.

Miami -3 over St. Louis: I’m liking Ryan Tannehill more and more each week. I thought the Dolphins would win two games all year…they already have. The Rams have won 3…but the Fins lost two games by three points, so basically, with a win Sunday, they could have been 5-1. Not bad for a rookie QB.

Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan embraces Baltimore’s Joe Flacco

Atlanta -9 over Oakland: Not the A’s…the Raiders are off to another slow start. The Falcons off to a 5-0 start. Matt Ryan has been on fire…the Falcons defense is very tough. It all adds up to a nice afternoon in the Georgia Dome for the soon-to-be 6-0 Falcons.

Arizona -4.5 over Buffalo: The NFL must like Arizona. Their schedule includes a home game against the Bills. I have to go with the Cardinals defense over the Bills offense…especially in the desert. Close, but not 4.5 points close. A touchdown to 10 points close for the home team.

Seattle +3.5 over New England: Another home pick…but the noise level in CenturyLink Field, well, you saw what it did to the Packers a couple of weeks ago. Seattle’s defense has speed and their corners are huge. Tom Brady will be running for his life Sunday, and, in what is, believe it or not, his first trip to Seattle, he will be glad to get out of there. Bruce Irvin is football’s fastest speed rusher, so be careful, Tom. Seattle, and diminutive Seahawks QB Russell Wilson (generously listed at 5’11″) is a winner and he will be happy to get 3.5 points! (Not that he is a gambling man…)

Washington -1.5 over Minnesota: Let’s be clear about this…both teams have quarterbacks they are happy with. Christian Ponder, whom many felt was drafter way too high two seasons ago, has proven his critics wrong. Robert Griffin III, whom many felt was drafted exactly right (just behind Andrew Luck) has proven his critics wrong…and right. They said a running quarterback would be hit a lot. And they are right. He was knocked out of last Sunday’s game, but is ready to play this week. I like the Skins at home in this one.

San Francisco -6 over New York Giants: I rarely pick against Eli Manning…he is 24-5 in October and is a flat-out winner. He has played well in Candlestick Park – remember him from last January being beaten and battered and still keeping the G-Men in a game they had no business even showing up for. I think the Niners are a little better this time as well…Alex Smith has a lot of weapons to use and the Giants secondary is not up to par health-wise. San Francisco by a TD.

Aaron Rodgers of Green Bay needs to get the Pack on track

Green Bay +3 at Houston: The Packers are getting a little bit of a break Sunday night in Houston. The Texans (5-0) struggled against the New York Jets Monday night. Now, they come back home, on a short week (but at least it is the night game), without inside linebacker and their signal-caller, Brian Cushing, who is out for the season with a torn ACL suffered against the Jets. I see Aaron Rodgers, who hopefully can evade Houston’s outstanding rush, hitting his targets and, despite the loss of Cedric Benson, leading the desperate Pack to a big, big win. Close score, but a big win nevertheless.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL:

Peyton Manning is improving by the week for Denver

Denver +1 at San Diego: I love the way Peyton Manning is playing. He has begun to throw more 20+ yard passes and is completing them than earlier this season. He is on pace to throw for more yards, 4,797, than he ever has, and is projected to throw 35 touchdown passes (which would be his second-most). I like the fact that the Broncos get a point on the road…I like them by a touchdown!