Jordin Sparks @ the Vikings/Jets Game

As a fan of the New England Patriots, it sickens me to see one of my potential spouses (hey, a guy can dream can't he?) wear the colors of the enemy.

Words can't even begin to describe how much of a slap in the face this is, but it's not like I can be mad. Her and I aren't on speaking terms right now and haven't been for quite some time but, still, it's nice to see her make a public appearance. Albeit at a Jets game, no less.

All jokes aside, Jordin Sparks has been a favorite of mine ever since she won American Idol. Now, I don't remember much from that season but one thing I do remember is how captivated I was in watching Jordin perform.

It was like that every single week, for me, and, justifiably, it remains one of the few seasons that I feel America actually got it right as far as determining a winner (SN: How did Jennifer Hudson not win her season? I'm still scratching my head on that one).

Be that as it may, I'm really looking forward to seeing how far Jordin can go with her career. She already has two successful albums under her belt and, not to mention, one amazing voice.

No other idol winner comes close in that regard so here's to continued success and a better taste in teams perhaps. "Gang Green" really isn't her color and, while I'm at it, neither is Steph Jones. Dude is the definition of a lame and I would be more than happy with putting a ring on it! Hopefully before he ever does...

Diana Taurasi Covers ESPN The Magazine's Body Issue

I don't think I've ever seen Diana Taurasi look this gorgeous and that's saying a lot, considering she's a WNBA player. The knock for most of them is that skill comes before appearance but, last I checked, they're still women at the end of the day and it's refreshing to see how some of them can look off the court. Especially Diana Taurasi.

Truthfully speaking, I've kind of always had a thing for her ever since she was at UConn. But, then, Candace Parker came about and I kind of just lost sight of all that. Call it what you want but I'm attracted to what I'm attracted to and you really can't go wrong with either one if you ask me.

Anyway, ESPN does a great job with their Body issue so I'm really looking forward to see what other athletes will decide to take it all off for the camera. Last year, the highlight for me was Serena Williams; so, hopefully, Candace Parker will come around and decide to follow in her footsteps one day. It's the least she could do considering she's either always hurt or pregnant.

In the meantime, however, this year's Body issue includes athletes such as: Amar'e Stoudemire, Tim Howard, and the USA Women's Water Polo Team. Be sure to look for it when it hits newsstands but, if you're like me and can't wait, I've included a video that entails a behind the scenes look of this year's Body issue being put together. Courtesy, of course, of ESPN.com

NFL: Giants and QB Eli Manning Agree to 6-year, $97.5M Extension

What in the hell has Eli Manning done to deserve a contract worth $97.5M(of which, $35M is guaranteed)? Sure, he may have won a Super Bowl on pure luck, but last season was a microcosm of his entire career and the thing I don't get is how a well run organization like the NY Giants could pay somebody for mediocrity.

It just doesn't make sense and, besides, we all saw what happend when Eli's safety net in Plaxico Burress was taken away from him. He became a less than average quarterback and his team's struggles reflected that when they were bounced in the divisional playoffs against the Philadelphia Eagles last year.

But to each's own, I suppose. The NY Giants (as an organization) have a much better handle on these kind of things than I do; and if they feel like Eli is worth it, who am I to say different? He did lead them to an improbable Super Bowl and, being their franchise player, I guess it makes sense to lock him up now while they still can. All I'm saying is the guy isn't worth it and for Giants fans that say otherwise, wake me up when Eli wins another ring.

Kobe Bryant Covers Slam Magazine

Kobe Bryant may have finally been vindicated in a lot of people's eyes by winning his 4th championship ring, but I just can't give credit where credit is due. Something about Kobe has always just rubbed me the wrong way and for me to sit here and say that he deserved it would be a lie on my behalf.

Instead, what I will say is that Kobe Bryant and the Lakers were pretty much handed an NBA championship this year by the Orlando Magic and I just don't see them getting back to the finals next year. Even with the addition of Ron Artest.

If so, I expect the Boston Celtics or Cleveland Cavaliers to give them a much more physical match-up; while, at the same time, be able to create the mismatches that the Orlando Magic obviously couldn't...

Dwight Howard Chosen As Cover Athlete For NBA Live 2010

Dwight Howard may not have won an NBA Championship, but this is a good look for him to be chosen as the cover athlete for NBA Live 2010. A lot of the previous players to have graced the cover have gone on to win(if not compete for) an NBA title and with the Magic being a relatively young team, I see them contending for years to come.

It's just disappointing that things didn't work out for him this year. The Los Angeles Lakers were a much better team and regardless of what anybody says, experience played a key role in this series; especially in late game situations.

I shutter to think how much of a difference the series would've been had Courtney Lee made that lay up @ the end of game 2 or if Derek Fisher misses one of the clutch three's he hit in game 4. A few bounces of the ball here or there may have yielded a much different result but it is what it is.

In the meantime, NBA Live 2010 will be in stores this fall.

An Inconvenient Truth Pt. 1

Usually a blog of this manner would serve as a prerequisite for anger; but, following the Los Angeles Lakers 25 point victory the other night in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, I think it's fair to say that the grandeur taking place in La La Land is [somewhat] misguided.

Sure, the Los Angeles Lakers are a much better team than the Orlando Magic; but it kills me to turn on ESPN and see commentators and analysts alike proclaim this series to be over after just one game. It's just one game!

Who's to say the Magic won't win 4 of the next 6 to make it a series? Certainly it's possible but, in all likelihood, I'm sure the Lakers will prevail like they have all postseason. Besides, the NBA has gone to great lengths to ensure a Kobe/LeBron coronation and I see no reason for them to quit while their ahead. It's just naive in a sense, however, because I'm one of the select few that have NOT changed their pick. Magic in 7! Mark my words.

Kobe Bryant Chosen As Cover Athlete For NBA 2K10

[Click image for larger view]
Kobe Bryant is not someone I particularly care for, to say the least; however, I've always respected him for what he's able to do on the basketball floor. There's no other NBA player that I fear more with my team up by 1 and the ball in Kobe's hands and, for that same reason, I see the logic behind 2K sports choosing Kobe as their [next] cover athlete.

Besides, as I write this, the Lakers seem primed to win [yet] another NBA championship and, if they do, you could only imagine how many more marketing doors will open [back] up for Kobe. This [already] being one of them.

NFL | Detroit Lions Select QB Matthew Stafford With #1 Overall Pick

The definition of parody in the NFL would clearly have to be the Detroit Lions. Following the New England Patriots 16-0 regular season, the Lions somehow managed to go 0-16 and made history as the first team to NOT win a game. Thus, awarding them the first pick in the 2009 NFL Draft.

Now while some would argue that a defensive player would've been better suited for their needs, I can also understand why they went with QB Matthew Stafford. The guy has a cannon for an arm and, in watching him at Georgia, his leadership shines through in his play on the field.

That being said, I guess what I [really] don't understand is how much the Lions seem to have invested in this guy. Need I remind you, Stafford has yet to take a snap in the NFL; so to offer him a six year deal worth $78 million and $41.7 million of that guaranteed seems a little "iffy" to me.

If anything, a bulk of that money could've been used to address the Lions much needed defensive needs; but who am I to have an opinion? All I can do is be the avid NFL football fan that I am and focus on teams that I actually care about (i.e. Patriots, Steelers, Eagles).

Troy Polamalu & Larry Fitzgerald Cover Madden NFL 10

Considering the fact that I have the Pittsburgh Steelers as an odds on favorite to win Super Bowl XLIV, you could only imagine how disheartening it is to see Troy Polamalu on the cover of Madden NFL 10.

For those unaware, a "Madden Curse" has plagued those who have appeared on the cover in recent years; and although I'm more of a firm believer in coincidence than curses, I still find it hard to argue against the reality of it all. It is what it is but, now with John Madden retired, maybe the curse will retire along as well.

Yet and still, I have to admit that this cover is actually kind of dope. It fits perfectly with the "Fight For Every Yard" theme that Madden NFL 10 is going for and who better to personify that than Steelers S Troy Polamalu and Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald. Both of these players embody the heart and soul of their team and it'll be interesting to see if they make it through the season unscathed.

As for Madden NFL 10 itself, I've been reading more and more about the game and it seems like it will be a much improved upgrade from last year's installment. Far be it from me to criticize one of the top selling football games of all times but, be that as it may, I've simply found NCAA College Football to be a better game in recent years and hopefully the realization of that will push the Madden franchise to improve significantly.

NCAA Men's College Basketball Final: Michigan State Spartans Vs. North Carolina Tar Heels

The college basketball season comes to an end later tonight and in dramatic fashion, no less. The "heavily favored" North Carolina Tar Heels are set to square off against the battle tested Michigan State Spartans and, going in, the Tar Heels are already a 7 1/2 point favorite.

Now, being the unbiased college basketball fan that I am, I just feel like everything seems a little premature in crowning North Carolina national champions. Sure, I won't argue against the notion that their the best team because, clearly, they've proved that thus far; but, my thing is, Michigan State just defeated two #1 seeds in Louisville and Uconn and did it in back-to-back games I mind you. If that isn't something that should be dually noted then, by all means, I've lost all respect for anybody who claims to know anything about sports. ESPN included.

Would it surprise me if Michigan State won, however? Yes and No. No, in the sense that they already busted my bracket twice already so to each his own; but yes, in the sense that a Michigan State win would not only cement coach Izzo's legacy but would also label this North Carolina team as one that couldn't get it done. Trust me, that stigma would haunt these players for years; especially since the bulk of this team chose to forego the NBA in hopes of bringing a National Championship back to Chapel Hill.

Will they get it done? That remains to be seen. So, with this prediction sure to go wrong, all I can do is go with what my gut is telling me. Therefore, I'm taking Michigan State. Read it and weep.

Final Score Prediction
Michigan State 74, North Carolina 69

Allen Iverson To Miss Rest of Season With Sore Back

As much as I love and support Allen Iverson, something tells me that more than a sore back is keeping him out for the rest of the season. Perhaps it's pride but, if so, a man's pride can be his undoing and unfortunately Allen Iverson has never been one to swallow his pride.

Which I don't understand. Being that he's been in the league for 13 some odd years and has only been to the finals ONCE, you would think that a player of his pedigree would jump at the chance to play with a contender like the Detroit Pistons. Not only did he have the supporting cast around him to win a championship, but the fact that he was back in the wide open Eastern Conference was reason enough for him to try and make this thing work. It just goes to show that pride can indeed be a tough thing to swallow and unless you're willing to get out of your own way, things can only be stagnant.

That being said, the question still remains: what's next for Allen Iverson? Clearly, his immediate future is not with the Detroit Pistons but, according to a segment on ESPN's 1st and 10 yesterday, his future with any NBA team may be bleak. So much so that even the possibility of playing overseas has been discussed. Now, while I highly doubt A.I. will leave the states to play ball, I still think playing overseas is a viable option. Just not the logical choice. His best bet is to accept the forthcoming pay cut and play his position as a backup for a championship contender. It's the only way he can validate his career and, last I checked, scoring titles and league MVP honors can only carry you so far. Wouldn't you agree?

A Picture Worth A Thousand Words

They say in every game there's a defining moment that decides whether or team wins or loses; but none have been more defining than the one captured above. Plain and simple, I {♥} this game.

Super Bowl XLIII | Arizona Cardinals Vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Although last year's Super Bowl was an anomaly, I firmly believe this year will be a return to normalcy. Albeit the game involves an improbable, yet resilient, Arizona Cardinals team; the Pittsburgh Steelers have been mightily impressive themselves and I think that's what a lot of experts/analysts are seeming to overlook. Sure, to the casual fan, the Arizona Cardinals are a trendy pick and who doesn't love a Cinderella story? Last year's upset of the New York Giants over the undefeated New England Patriots was one of the most watched Super Bowls in recent memory and I think that the impact of that game was far reaching than one would've ever imagined. Bitter, I can't help but feel a little begrudged being that I AM a fan of the patriots; but, still, I digress.

I guess what frustrates me the most is that I still don't believe that the Arizona Cardinals have done anything to get here. First, they beat a rookie QB that didn't change up his snap count and were then handed a game courtesy of Jake Delhomme and his 5 interceptions. Combine that with the fact that they allowed the Philadelphia Eagles to score 19 STRAIGHT points in the second half of the NFC Championship game only to score 8 of their own to win the game; I just feel like this offense of theirs is only predicated on hoping that the team their facing self-destructs.

And that, my friend, is the biggest misconception about these Arizona Cardinals. It's not so much that their red hot but, rather that the mistakes they make have been minimal as compared to that of their opponent. Will that trend continue in Super Bowl XLIII? Who knows but, dare I say it is highly unlikely. The Pittsburgh defense is #1 in the league for a reason and will come ready to play. Not to mention, Big Ben has a lot to prove following his dismal performance in Super Bowl XL and all signs point to him having a much better game. If he stays within the offense, makes a few plays down the field, and rely on the strong running game of Willie Parker, the Pittsburgh Steelers will be victorious. A recipe for success nonetheless. Wouldn't you agree?

Final Score: Pittsburgh 31, Arizona 20

Kobe Bryant Covers Complex Magazine

There's nothing more satisfying than to see Kobe Bryant and the Los Angelas Lakers lose, but maybe that's just me. Truth be told, I've never been fond of Kobe and the Lakers [even in their glory days] so, as much as it pains me to see their rise to prominence once again, it's comforting to know that a big (3) in Boston exists and that teams like Orlando and Cleveland are equally hungry as well.

Let's face it. If healthy, the Lakers are the favorites to win it all this year; but something is telling me different. I don't know if it's intuition or what have you, but last night's injury to Andrew Bynum has nothing to do with it. I just feel like the Lakers are little too over hyped to be considered title contenders and only time will tell.

In the meantime, Kobe Bryant is featured on this month's Complex magazine so be sure to pick up a copy when it hits newsstands. Ironically enough, I think it will be a pretty good read. Go figure.

Allen Iverson Covers Slam Magazine

Allen Iverson has been criticized his entire career for being a "me" first player and I honestly thought his arrival in Detroit would prove otherwise. Needless to say, things haven't gone so well since and to say that the team has struggled would an understatement.

Which is no surprise. Integrating a player of Iverson's caliber will take time to gel and while I'm confident the team will respond well once the playoffs come, it just hasn't shown on the court [yet] and it bothers the hell out of me.

Why? Well, at times, the Pistons look lost out there and seem to have lost that "championship swagger" they had with Billups; however, it all comes down to defense. It's already a given that A.I. can score; but if the team can rally around that concept and play defense as a unit, then I don't see why this team couldn't compete for a championship. Do you?

Lil' Wayne Debates Skip Bayless on ESPN's 1st & 10

Alabama Loses Allstate Sugar Bowl 31-17 To Utah

How does a team go undefeated in the regular season, lose to Florida in the SEC Championship game, and then lose to Utah in the Allstate Sugar Bowl? That’s the question a lot of Crimson Tide fans are asking themselves right about now, but I think all the credit in the world has to go to the ONLY undefeated team in the nation, the Utah Utes.

For anybody that watched that game, Utah’s spread/hurry up offense caught Alabama off guard and allowed the Utes to jump out to a 21-3 lead. From there, Alabama never really got it going and struggled offensively; not to mention, turnovers played a huge part as well. It just goes to show that no game is won on paper. Instead, the players decide things on the field and one team [obviously] came more prepared than the other.

Now, being the unbiased individual that I am, I had no interest whatsoever in this game but was impressed with how physical Utah came out and played. Typically, the SEC is highly touted as the most physical conference; but Utah flipped the script and was completely dominant in bringing pressure on a downtrodden Crimson Tide football team.

Obviously Alabama never really recovered after that loss to Florida a weeks ago and it really showed in their effort. For whatever reason, Alabama came out flat and served second fiddle to an opportunistic Utah team that capitalized when given the opportunity.

Had things gone differently, Alabama possibly could’ve made the case for a share of the National Championship; but now, all that is out the window. Instead, their consolation prize is an embarrassing loss; one that was emphatic, incredulous, and damn near hard to watch.

Peyton Manning Named AP NFL MVP

In my opinion, Peyton Manning won the MVP in week 1 when Tom Brady went down with an injury. Think about it. No other player in the NFL is even worthy of such an honor and, as much as I hate to admit it, the guy earned every bit of this award by leading his team to the playoffs after starting the season with a 3-4 record.

Without question, it took every bit of focus to put the Indianapolis Colts in position to make a run; however, winning the MVP has become a death nail of sorts -- especially the last couple of seasons. Still, Peyton gets all the credit in the world for playing through injury and a makeshift offense that really didn’t start clicking until mid-season; but I think some honorable mention should go towards RB Adrian Peterson.

If this guy’s heart could be measured, he would’ve won the MVP in my book; but he fumbled that away with his inability to hold on to the ball. Too many turnovers cost him a prestigious honor and until he proves otherwise, you have no choice but to consider him a liability. Vikings fans already do so, although he makes a lot of things happen offensively, think of it as a gift and a curse. At least that way things are [somewhat] put into perspective.

*The Indianapolis Colts lost to the San Diego Chargers on Wildcard Weekend; thus keeping the “MVP curse” alive.

NFL | Wildcard Weekend Predictions

Atlanta Falcons (11-5)

Arizona Cardinals (9-7)
The Atlanta Falcons are one the many surprises this year and who would ever thought that a rookie QB would lead them back to the playoffs? Following a tumultuous year last year, no one could have ever predicted a turn around quite like this, but Atlanta seems poised to make some noise in this years post season.

Led by QB Matt Ryan, the Falcons match up well with the Arizona Cardinals and you can expect them to attack Arizona's secondary down field. Combine their aerial assault with the strong running of Michael Turner and what you have is a recipe for a win. Besides, Arizona seems content with only making the postseason and have [seemingly] shut it down since clinching the division weeks ago. You can bet Atlanta will come to play and unless Arizona can flip the switch, that championship drought in Arizona will continue.

Final Score: Atlanta 27 , Arizona 17

Indianapolis Colts (12-4)
San Diego Chargers (8-8)
I hate the Indianapolis Colts. Strong statement, I know; but even I can't deny how well they have played as of late. Winners of 9 in a row, the Colts are rolling into the postseason in form and will be a tough out for anybody who matches up with them. However, San Diego seems to be Peyton Manning's kryptonite. In last year's playoffs, San Diego put the clamps down on Peyton and forced him to be impatient; but you can believe that Peyton will not have a repeat of that performance.

Instead, I expect the Colts to come out and stick to what has helped them win 9 in a row. Will that be enough? It remains to be seen, but I just think that with this new life that the San Diego Chargers have been given; without question, these group of guys want to make the most of it. They may not be the strongest team in the AFC but, when healthy, the Chargers are one of the most talented. That being said, I expect the Charger defense to come up big against Peyton and force him into a critical mistake late in the game. Thus, giving the Chargers a back-to-back sweep of the Colts in consecutive post seasons.

Final Score: San Diego 28, Indianapolis 24

Baltimore Ravens (11-5)
Miami Dolphins (11-5)

As much as I strongly feel that the New England Patriots should be here and not the Baltimore Ravens, nor the Miami Dolphins; I guess a part of me has to give credit where credit is due. Both of these teams are tenacious and have really fought hard all year to be in the position that they are in now; but only one can advance.

Let's face it. Both teams play really well and execute masterfully at what they do best and I highly doubt this game will disappoint. While it may not be the high-scoring affair that most fans want, a close, competitive game is more entertaining to watch and I expect just that from these two teams.

Baltimore's defense is rated high for a reason and I expect that same defense to shut down the wildcat offense of the Miami Dolphins. If the Dolphins have any chance, QB Chad Pennington will have to make a few key throws downfield and rely heavily on Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams to work their magic. If he's patient enough to do that, then the Dolphins will be in good shape. The thing is...I don't think the Raven's "D" will allow that; nor do any of the quote on quote "experts".

Final Score: Baltimore 13, Miami 10

Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1)
Minnesota Vikings (10-6)

Many people believed the Philadelphia Eagles to be dead in the water following an improbable tie with Cincinnati but, with all the drama down in big "D", the Philadelphia Eagles found a way to get into the postseason. Now, being an Eagle fan, I would love nothing more than to see Donovan McNabb take his game to an even higher level and lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl; but it has to be all about balance. It irritates the hell out of me when the Eagles throw the ball the whole damn game, lose, and then wonder why. Maybe it's me that feels that way but it is what it is.

From the other side, Adrian Petersen has played like an MVP this year; but he fumbles the ball too damn much. The same could be said for Tavaris Jackson. I understand both these players are still young and will develop over time, but you have to take care of the football. For that, I give the slight edge to the Eagles. Not to mention, Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson is a master at the Eagles blitz scheme and I, strongly, believe Tavaris Jackson will struggle against such heavy pressure. If that holds up and the Eagles can find the perfect balance between running the ball and passing, I expect the Eagles to soar to the next round.

Final Score: Philadelphia 31, Minnesota 21

Detroit Pistons Agree To Acquire G Allen Iverson From Denver Nuggets

When Allen Iverson was traded less than two years ago from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Denver Nuggets, I just knew that him and Carmelo Anthony would be a dynamic force unlike the NBA had ever seen. On paper, the pairing seemed destined for championship aspirations but when a team with so much talent can't even make it out of the first round; sooner or later, there comes a point where reality starts to sink in. Therefore, with that, I'm sad to report that the Denver Nuggets have parted ways with Allen Iverson in exchange for Chauncey Billups, Antonio McDyess, and Cheikh Samb of the Detroit Pistons.

From a business standpoint, this deal makes sense; but ever since I caught wind of this, I've been back and forth about it [personally] and it just doesn't make any sense whatsoever. It's no secret that both A.I. and Billups are on the decline, but Billups is the heart and soul of that Piston team and to trade him away is just stupid.

Don't get me wrong, in no way am I questioning Joe Dumars because he's proven over the years that he's quite capable when it comes to this GM thing; but what kind of thought process goes into trading away the glue that binds your team?

A Finals MVP, Billups led Detroit to an improbable win in the NBA Finals a few years back and is, still, fully capable of recapturing that same magic. The only question is, will he be able to [now] in Denver. I, myself, think he won't; but then again, I also thought that Melo and Iverson would've been three deep in championships by now so go figure.

Switching gears, I kind of like this deal from Iverson's perspective because he's never had a "great" team behind him. Rip Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace, and Tayshaun Prince are key, core guys that will mesh with A.I.'s game well (in my opinion) and, for once, A.I. won't have to do it all himself. All A.I. has to do is buy into the team concept and I, truly, believe that this reconstructed Pistons team could challenge the Celtics in the East.

While that remains to be seen, however, I expect Iverson to flourish in his new role and be instrumental in a variety of different ways. His long trek towards NBA glory has been well documented and this here may be his last shot at winning a championship (if not here, his contract expires at the end of the year; making him a free agent and free to go wherever he chooses). No doubt my fingers are crossed in hopes that his dream comes true but, in order for this all to work, I keep thinking about that old Detroit mantra in that "you have to play the right way". Keep that in mind A.I. and the rest will take care of itself.