Hey Y'all it's SportsGal89 INNNN the buildin'... This week in sports, I enter into what I am calling #RivalryWeek. Thanksgiving night was the matchup between the Steelers and the Ravens and this upcoming Saturday will be the matchup between THE Ohio State University and Michigan (YUCK!!)
After a solid win by the Steelers in their last matchup against the Ravens, I was definitely excited to watch them play. Not only would they be playing on Turkey Day, but their game was the Thursday Night Football experience. Yes they, were playing the Ravens at home, but the odds are not so much stacked against them.
Both teams were going into the game 5-6 battling for a coveted wild card spot. And while I am not concerned at all with the Steelers having a playoff chance, I am very much concerned with their ability to beat the Ravens, because when it comes to bragging rights, as much as Superbowl Championships mean something ( I mean we still lead the league with the most-- SIXBURGH STAND UP) the reality is, when it comes to Rivalries the bragging rights last for years and through families etc.
So here it is Thursday night football and I am more than excited. Celebrating Thanksgiving with a massive feast and getting to sit down to watch football, and not just any time, but my team. The game, from the Steelers side started off slow. And by slow I mean NO points through the first half. Despite having several long drives, the Steelers couldn't deliver. The first non-delivery came at not being able to convert in a 3rd drive. The second non-delivery came at the feet of kicker Suisham who has not had horrible games, but for some reason was just off tonight. He had a failed kick and when I say failed, he missed it. He went too fast for the ball and missed the snap and the handler holding the ball. The second failed attempt was the whack onside kick he tried to get. He just kicked it all kinds of sloppy and good thing there was a call for offsides, otherwise that could have ruined us.
Then shortly after the half, the Steelers found their rhythm in Le'veon Bell, Emmanual Saunders, Jericho Cotchery, Antonio Brown, Heath Miller. The Rookie Bell has been a beauty to watch when he finds his gaps and can run like the wind. He's been dominating as a rusher and it's been beautiful to watch him bounce find a cut and run!
Saunders is nothing new to the Steelers, he and Ben when they are on are on. Saunders tends to be a little inconsistent this season, but as mentioned when he is on, you don't want to miss out on him- and to be honest in Fantasy points he did great this game.
Jericho Cotchery, had a really slow start with the Steelers in his first year. He was injured and is coming back to healthy now. When Ben needs something done, he goes to Cotchery and number 89 has not disappointed.
When you are needing that long drive- Downtown Antonio Brown is all you need!
What can be said about Heath Miller, he is a classy guy and one of the best tight ends. When Heath is healthy you know that he and Ben can make magic happen!
So when the 2nd half began the formula was there for the Steelers to have a comeback and comeback they did.. gaining 14 points and closing the gap on the Ravens lead. The Ravens hadn't really scored by a TD since their first drive in the 1st and all points after came at the foot of Kicker Justin Tucker (Thank you for my fantasy points!)
Late in the 4th with maybe 2 minutes to play, the Steelers drive for the endzone. Heath makes an attempt and is stopped short due to his knee being down. Going for it again, Le'Veon Bell drives to the endzone. He lands right on the endzone, but not before his helmet flies off in one of the most BRUTAL hits that I have EVER seen.
Let me take a moment, the heart of why I wanted to write this blog and the reason for the title- He [Bell] and Jimmy Smith of the Ravens collided as Smith attempted to make the stop. Bell's helmet falls off and in the fast speed of the game, what first looked like it could be a fumble, turns into the hardest two minutes to watch. Bell falls hard to the ground, his head snaps back and forth after it hits the ground and still holding on to the ball, Bell falls back down to the ground. seconds later the ball falls out of his hands and there Bell lays for 2 minutes not moving.
Next to him is Jimmy Smith equally shaken by the hit. Players on both sides crowd into a huddle praying for their fallen teammates, the stadium which was loud as Ravens fans always are, goes silent. 2 minutes later Bell stands up, still shaken, unable to walk straight and clearly going to be out due to a concussion.
Steelers eventually connect for the touchdown with Ben tossing to a wide open Cotchery. But after watching that hit, the steam and energy of the game was over for me. Which is interesting considering it is a rivalry match. But here is the reality, a comment I have made a few times before, what is a sport if you have no players to cheer for?
I don't know if Smith could have done anything differently and it will be interesting to see what the NFL decides later, if Smith will get fined etc. But I know as a fan there is nothing more scary than watching a great player cut short. So I can only imagine if those 2 minutes were tough for me, how tough were those 2 minutes for their families. So waking up this morning after a loss, brief recap- Steelers finally made the touch down they needed with Ben connecting to Cotchery- this brought the game up 20-22. The Steelers made an attempt for a 2pt conversion which resulted in an incomplete pass and a failed attempt as mentioned earlier, by Suisham for a onside kick.
So in this battle, the Ravens took the W- 20-22. Most mornings after a loss to the Ravens, I am probably a little sour, but today after this loss, I am actually at peace. A hit like the one Bell and Smith had reminds you that if the players are not there to play then what and who will we cheer for.
And that's all she wrote folks!
11.29.2013
RIVALRY: Where you put it all on the line
HEY Y'all It's your favorite SportsGal89 Innnnn tha Buildin'! Hope you are doing as well as I am!
I am coming to you with a gem. In the sports world, Rivalries matter. It's where the fans get to go all out and support their team knowing that even though EVERY game means something, in the grand scheme of honor, RIVALRIES last a lifetime and are the epitome of a sports match up. Rivalries are things that have been instilled within the culture and overall fabric of the sport. Children are born knowing and understanding these great battles in the sports world. Rivalries like the Yankees vs. Red Sox; Celtics vs. Lakers; Ohio State vs. Michigan and THE STEELERS vs. RAVENS.
I have grown into a sports fan that knows as much as I love purple, I can NEVER get down with the Ravens and seeing purple in the jerseys on a Sunday hurts my heart, my head and my stomach.
Now while this Rivalry is fairly new- remember the Ravens are still a younger team in terms of the Steelers history- and maybe that's another reason why I can't stand the Ravens (When Cleveland lost it's football team, I was still living in Ohio); but regardless, I have grown up knowing that the Ravens is the team that no matter what happens for the rest of the season the Steelers need to come out with a win.
I can best equate this to last year's Ohio State Buckeye's season- while we went 12-0 last year, we couldn't enter any championship games. It didn't matter so much as long as we #BEATMichigan. Right?!
So, no matter how crappy my team is playing the game that matters the most is against the Ravens.. We were home and we played MARVELOUSLY!!
Now the game wasn't this huge beating, but what that scoreboard said at the end, was that the Steelers won it all! 19-16 and another win against the Ravens was all that mattered!
I am coming to you with a gem. In the sports world, Rivalries matter. It's where the fans get to go all out and support their team knowing that even though EVERY game means something, in the grand scheme of honor, RIVALRIES last a lifetime and are the epitome of a sports match up. Rivalries are things that have been instilled within the culture and overall fabric of the sport. Children are born knowing and understanding these great battles in the sports world. Rivalries like the Yankees vs. Red Sox; Celtics vs. Lakers; Ohio State vs. Michigan and THE STEELERS vs. RAVENS.
I have grown into a sports fan that knows as much as I love purple, I can NEVER get down with the Ravens and seeing purple in the jerseys on a Sunday hurts my heart, my head and my stomach.
Now while this Rivalry is fairly new- remember the Ravens are still a younger team in terms of the Steelers history- and maybe that's another reason why I can't stand the Ravens (When Cleveland lost it's football team, I was still living in Ohio); but regardless, I have grown up knowing that the Ravens is the team that no matter what happens for the rest of the season the Steelers need to come out with a win.
I can best equate this to last year's Ohio State Buckeye's season- while we went 12-0 last year, we couldn't enter any championship games. It didn't matter so much as long as we #BEATMichigan. Right?!
So, no matter how crappy my team is playing the game that matters the most is against the Ravens.. We were home and we played MARVELOUSLY!!
Now the game wasn't this huge beating, but what that scoreboard said at the end, was that the Steelers won it all! 19-16 and another win against the Ravens was all that mattered!
10.20.2013
ONE: the only game that matters (Steelers finally get a W)
Hey Y'all it's your FAVORITE SportsGal89 INNNNN the Buildin'. I am coming to you as one happy camper. This past week I got the chance to go home to NY for a much needed family visit. But not only did I get to go home, I also went to my first Steelers game of the season and the ONE that mattered! Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, I was there when the Steelers won their first bringing their record to 1-4! FINALLY a win!
It was a great day in the Meadowlands if you were a Steelers fan, and this Steelers fan was excited to be there and watch her team finally dig themselves out of the rut they had been in..
I will say this the one rule I had was, I can't pay the good money I paid for a crappy show by my team. With seats in the Endzone 14 rows up, it was definitely a day I didn't want wasted. And thankfully the boys did not disappoint!
I can't remember or speak on every play so instead I am going to share photos from Game day!
It was a great day in the Meadowlands if you were a Steelers fan, and this Steelers fan was excited to be there and watch her team finally dig themselves out of the rut they had been in..
I will say this the one rule I had was, I can't pay the good money I paid for a crappy show by my team. With seats in the Endzone 14 rows up, it was definitely a day I didn't want wasted. And thankfully the boys did not disappoint!
I can't remember or speak on every play so instead I am going to share photos from Game day!
10.17.2013
Week 7: Predictions reality and more
Hey Y'all! It's your favorite SportsGal89 IN the buildin'! It has been a while since I have posted and my apologies, but there have been some awesome games in all areas of sports that have distracted me from my writing. I apologize.
I wanted to make sure I came back with the Week 7 Predictions before kickoff so here we go
Game Keesha's Pick Reality
SEA vs. ARI SEA
BAL vs. PIT PIT (duh 1-4 BABY! Ha)
TAM vs ATL TAM (the way the Falcons have been playing- woof)
CIN vs. DET CINCY
BUF vs. MIA MIA
PAT vs JETS PAT
DAL vs. PHI DAL
CHI vs DC CHI
STL vs. CAR CAR
SD vs JAC SD
SF vs TEN SF
CLE vs GB GB
HOU vs KC KC
DEN vs INDY DEN
MIN vs NY NY
(one of these teams is going to do well, this might be the game the Giants need)
See you back here Monday night with the reality!
I wanted to make sure I came back with the Week 7 Predictions before kickoff so here we go
Game Keesha's Pick Reality
SEA vs. ARI SEA
BAL vs. PIT PIT (duh 1-4 BABY! Ha)
TAM vs ATL TAM (the way the Falcons have been playing- woof)
CIN vs. DET CINCY
BUF vs. MIA MIA
PAT vs JETS PAT
DAL vs. PHI DAL
CHI vs DC CHI
STL vs. CAR CAR
SD vs JAC SD
SF vs TEN SF
CLE vs GB GB
HOU vs KC KC
DEN vs INDY DEN
MIN vs NY NY
(one of these teams is going to do well, this might be the game the Giants need)
See you back here Monday night with the reality!
10.01.2013
Another week of disappointment--- What is going on in Pittsburgh?!
Hey Y'all so this week I failed and didn't get my Week 4 predictions up and that's okay.. because I can focus on my team and the horrible season that has been happening in Pittsburgh.
It's your FAVORITE SportsGal89 In the Buildin' and I am about to go OFF on my team- well not really.
I have said it a few times in these latest posts that I have not been holding my breath for a fabulous season with my team. Going 0-4 in the preseason, and now 0-4 in the regular season! UGH! This is boo boo! Not to mention that this is the first time since 1968 that the Steelers have gone 0-4! Now I knew that our 2013 season was going to be a little rough, but this just stinks.
I thought maybe with the return of Le'Veon Bell and a change in location with our game overseas that the team would rally and come back. But no, this was the STRUGGLE.
Here is the thing. Our QB is older, not only is he older, but the Ben that entered the league in 2004 is not the same in his mobility as he was then. The years of being beat up, sacked etc are wearing on him. I mean Ben has been notorious for staying in the pocket too long, or moving around and taking the hits and when he came debuted, as a fan we loved it. It was exciting to see a QB as mobile as he was, but after a while with as many hits as he has taken and the injuries in the last few seasons, it is just so tough to watch and see. I think for the last two seasons alone, I have talked about how weak we are in our O-Line.. They aren't able to protect him the way he needs to be-- some of that is with the fact that he moves around too much or not enough, but the other part is that at least this season with injuries among our key front men, we are really lacking in support of our QB.
It doesn't make it any better that we have injuries in what is supposed to be the strongest part of our team- The Steel Curtain. What is left of this decade's defense is dwindling. James Harrison in Cincy, Foote injured, Casey Hampton gone, we are just FALLING APART!
It's so frustrating- there is no comeback that can take away from my team looking sorry this season. I mean "Sixburgh" can only get you so far , when the threat of the next two teams close to six are themselves having a shakey season, but son WHAT is going on?!
I think I have to give the Steelers the NFL Whack Award.. I can't... Even when we haven't gone to the big game, or haven't had a season where we know we are going to succeed in the playoffs, at least the team has it's character and identity.. Right now our character and identity is not what it used to be. And not that I expect them to be, but we are searching for who we are now and who we are in that process is SORRY!
Hopefully this bye that is coming up, gives us the time to figure it out. Otherwise I am wasting money watching my team lose on October 13 when I take my nephew to the Jets vs. Steelers game.. We better get it together!
That's all she wrote!
It's your FAVORITE SportsGal89 In the Buildin' and I am about to go OFF on my team- well not really.
I have said it a few times in these latest posts that I have not been holding my breath for a fabulous season with my team. Going 0-4 in the preseason, and now 0-4 in the regular season! UGH! This is boo boo! Not to mention that this is the first time since 1968 that the Steelers have gone 0-4! Now I knew that our 2013 season was going to be a little rough, but this just stinks.
I thought maybe with the return of Le'Veon Bell and a change in location with our game overseas that the team would rally and come back. But no, this was the STRUGGLE.
Here is the thing. Our QB is older, not only is he older, but the Ben that entered the league in 2004 is not the same in his mobility as he was then. The years of being beat up, sacked etc are wearing on him. I mean Ben has been notorious for staying in the pocket too long, or moving around and taking the hits and when he came debuted, as a fan we loved it. It was exciting to see a QB as mobile as he was, but after a while with as many hits as he has taken and the injuries in the last few seasons, it is just so tough to watch and see. I think for the last two seasons alone, I have talked about how weak we are in our O-Line.. They aren't able to protect him the way he needs to be-- some of that is with the fact that he moves around too much or not enough, but the other part is that at least this season with injuries among our key front men, we are really lacking in support of our QB.
It doesn't make it any better that we have injuries in what is supposed to be the strongest part of our team- The Steel Curtain. What is left of this decade's defense is dwindling. James Harrison in Cincy, Foote injured, Casey Hampton gone, we are just FALLING APART!
It's so frustrating- there is no comeback that can take away from my team looking sorry this season. I mean "Sixburgh" can only get you so far , when the threat of the next two teams close to six are themselves having a shakey season, but son WHAT is going on?!
I think I have to give the Steelers the NFL Whack Award.. I can't... Even when we haven't gone to the big game, or haven't had a season where we know we are going to succeed in the playoffs, at least the team has it's character and identity.. Right now our character and identity is not what it used to be. And not that I expect them to be, but we are searching for who we are now and who we are in that process is SORRY!
Hopefully this bye that is coming up, gives us the time to figure it out. Otherwise I am wasting money watching my team lose on October 13 when I take my nephew to the Jets vs. Steelers game.. We better get it together!
That's all she wrote!
9.21.2013
Week 3: Predictions and more!!
Hey Hey Hey! Hope y'all are having a great day! It's your favorite SportsGal89 IN the buildin' !
So I did it again... I forgot to write about Thursday Night Football.. Please don't hate me, I haven't even talked about College Ball and there have been some games! But anyways, let me give you the quick recap:
KC & PHIL played: Highlight of the night-- they retired number 5- Donavan McNabb's jersey will forever hang at the Eagle's stadium in honor of the great QB. Additionally, Kansas City is 3-0 under Andy Reid. Reid playing his first game back in Philadelphia not being the head coach of the Eagles.
My Predictions for week 3:
Game My Pick Reality
GB vs. CIN GB CIN (34-30)*
STL vs. DAL STL DAL (31-7)*
SD vs. TEN SD TEN (20-17) *
CLE vs. MIN MIN CLE (31-27) *
TB vs. NE NE NE (23-3)
ARI vs. NO NO NO (31-7)
DET vs. WSH WSH DET (27-20)*
HOU vs. BAL HOU BAL (30-9) *
ATL vs. MIA MIA MIA (27-23)
BUF vs. NYJ BUF NYJ (27-20)*
IND vs. SF SF IND (27-7) *
JAC vs. SEA SEA SEA (45-17)
PIT vs. CHI CHI CHI (40-23)
( I know I should go for my team... So let the one time I doubt them be the time they win)
OAK vs. DEN DEN DEN (37-21)
Predictions entered on 9.21.2013, we'll see what happens on 9.22
** By the way, I totally missed Carolina and the Giants in my predictions... Caroline blew out the Giants 38-0!
So my predictions didn't hold up this week. Oh well there is always next time. But one thing that did hold up was my Fantasy Team!! I was projected to lose, but I came out with the win! I will say watching the game through the lens of a Fantasy Team is much more interesting than what a regular game watching experience can be.
This Week's notables:
Well today I am not even going to touch the Steelers. As much as I was proud of them FINALLY catching their rhythm and Ben connecting with DOWNTOWN Antonio Brown for some sweet little toss ups, air ups and one brilliant one-handed touchdown. There is still A LOT of work to do. I will still rep my team through it all, but I have decided that beyond them making the playoffs (ha ha), I would be much more pleased if the team just jelled, caught their stride and developed into a stronger better team. For the commentators, I get it, it's uncharacteristic of the Steelers, but is it really. I mean we had that drought before Big Ben came to the team and then we developed then we spent two years after our SuperBowl win in Detroit trying to get our stride again. So is it really that much to assume that a team is going to stay on top?! Yes, admittedly so we are one of the most notable teams, but all teams struggle.
So this week's notables go to the following three teams- Denver, Seahawks and Cincy.
DENVER:
Let's talk about the fact that Peyton Manning is just a remarkable QB. 37 years old, coming back from one of the most interesting histories with Indiana and then after neck surgery comes into the most amazing deal with Denver. It has definitely paid off for Denver and it continues to pay off for Peyton's legacy. He is by far one of the greatest QB to watch and watching how well he controls his team is remarkable. ESPN noted him as the top "Quality Performer" throwing for 374 yards and 3 TDs. He continues to develop and get better, stronger and much more controlled as the weeks progress, and let us remind you this is only Week 3! Imagine what Peyton will be looking like as the weeks continue. In the three weeks that say an EJ Manuel is still developing his game, Peyton has blown past the development stage and just sits in his own. Watching him play is fascinating and his leadership is unsurpassed. He has definitely transformed the league and his team.
SEAHAWKS:
As a Steelers fan, I will always get the last laugh after the 2006 Superbowl... Despite the fact that Seahawks fans claim we didn't deserve to win etc. But that aside, Pete Carroll's are taking over the west and solidifying why they are a great team. I can't say much, but it is exciting to watch this team continue to grow and establish their brand, their structure and continue to build the momentum. I will not be at all surprised with the Seahawks making a strong playoff run.
CINCY:
Cincy doesn't get a notable because I have been HARASSED (AJ), but because they actually continue to prove that they are a team to look out for. When the landscape of the AFC North changes with one of the dominating teams being on the outs (Steelers) it honestly is anyone's game. The rivalry that is Steelers vs. Ravens changes, and it means that teams like the Browns and the Bengals can step up and be seen as better. But let's start with the fact the Bengals are 2-1 and are cleaning up teams that have been the dominate teams- Steelers and now Green Bay. And these wins haven't been by luck, these wins have been due to the tenacity and resilience of the team. This team while, I don't know if they will be a playoff contending team, they are definitely a team to continue to keep an eye on.
Honorable mention:
Although it pains me to say this Chicago deserves to be mentioned. With a new coach and a transformed Jay Cutler the team is definitely jelling. Cutler has grown into a different kind of QB. He has more energy for the position and seems to enjoy playing the game more than he has actually displayed in the past. It'll be interesting to see what happens when the Bears find themselves up against the ropes, but as much as I was disappointed in the whoppin the Steelers took by the Bears, the Bears played one HELL of a game!
Week 4 Predictions:
Thursday night--
Game Keesha's Prediction Reality
SF vs. STL SF SF- (35-11)
As of 9.25.2013- I cannot believe that SF can't get out of this rut. Whatever toxic energy is driving a wedge in the team, it needs to be figured out. I like Jim Harbaugh, especially in consideration of his brother, but I need him to be the coach- stay out of the headlines for your antics and your tantrums and coach your team through some wins.
9.30.2013-
SF finds it's rhythm and takes the W. Hopefully this momentum continues as the season continues.
So I did it again... I forgot to write about Thursday Night Football.. Please don't hate me, I haven't even talked about College Ball and there have been some games! But anyways, let me give you the quick recap:
KC & PHIL played: Highlight of the night-- they retired number 5- Donavan McNabb's jersey will forever hang at the Eagle's stadium in honor of the great QB. Additionally, Kansas City is 3-0 under Andy Reid. Reid playing his first game back in Philadelphia not being the head coach of the Eagles.
My Predictions for week 3:
Game My Pick Reality
GB vs. CIN GB CIN (34-30)*
STL vs. DAL STL DAL (31-7)*
SD vs. TEN SD TEN (20-17) *
CLE vs. MIN MIN CLE (31-27) *
TB vs. NE NE NE (23-3)
ARI vs. NO NO NO (31-7)
DET vs. WSH WSH DET (27-20)*
HOU vs. BAL HOU BAL (30-9) *
ATL vs. MIA MIA MIA (27-23)
BUF vs. NYJ BUF NYJ (27-20)*
IND vs. SF SF IND (27-7) *
JAC vs. SEA SEA SEA (45-17)
PIT vs. CHI CHI CHI (40-23)
( I know I should go for my team... So let the one time I doubt them be the time they win)
OAK vs. DEN DEN DEN (37-21)
Predictions entered on 9.21.2013, we'll see what happens on 9.22
** By the way, I totally missed Carolina and the Giants in my predictions... Caroline blew out the Giants 38-0!
So my predictions didn't hold up this week. Oh well there is always next time. But one thing that did hold up was my Fantasy Team!! I was projected to lose, but I came out with the win! I will say watching the game through the lens of a Fantasy Team is much more interesting than what a regular game watching experience can be.
This Week's notables:
Well today I am not even going to touch the Steelers. As much as I was proud of them FINALLY catching their rhythm and Ben connecting with DOWNTOWN Antonio Brown for some sweet little toss ups, air ups and one brilliant one-handed touchdown. There is still A LOT of work to do. I will still rep my team through it all, but I have decided that beyond them making the playoffs (ha ha), I would be much more pleased if the team just jelled, caught their stride and developed into a stronger better team. For the commentators, I get it, it's uncharacteristic of the Steelers, but is it really. I mean we had that drought before Big Ben came to the team and then we developed then we spent two years after our SuperBowl win in Detroit trying to get our stride again. So is it really that much to assume that a team is going to stay on top?! Yes, admittedly so we are one of the most notable teams, but all teams struggle.
So this week's notables go to the following three teams- Denver, Seahawks and Cincy.
DENVER:
Let's talk about the fact that Peyton Manning is just a remarkable QB. 37 years old, coming back from one of the most interesting histories with Indiana and then after neck surgery comes into the most amazing deal with Denver. It has definitely paid off for Denver and it continues to pay off for Peyton's legacy. He is by far one of the greatest QB to watch and watching how well he controls his team is remarkable. ESPN noted him as the top "Quality Performer" throwing for 374 yards and 3 TDs. He continues to develop and get better, stronger and much more controlled as the weeks progress, and let us remind you this is only Week 3! Imagine what Peyton will be looking like as the weeks continue. In the three weeks that say an EJ Manuel is still developing his game, Peyton has blown past the development stage and just sits in his own. Watching him play is fascinating and his leadership is unsurpassed. He has definitely transformed the league and his team.
SEAHAWKS:
As a Steelers fan, I will always get the last laugh after the 2006 Superbowl... Despite the fact that Seahawks fans claim we didn't deserve to win etc. But that aside, Pete Carroll's are taking over the west and solidifying why they are a great team. I can't say much, but it is exciting to watch this team continue to grow and establish their brand, their structure and continue to build the momentum. I will not be at all surprised with the Seahawks making a strong playoff run.
CINCY:
Cincy doesn't get a notable because I have been HARASSED (AJ), but because they actually continue to prove that they are a team to look out for. When the landscape of the AFC North changes with one of the dominating teams being on the outs (Steelers) it honestly is anyone's game. The rivalry that is Steelers vs. Ravens changes, and it means that teams like the Browns and the Bengals can step up and be seen as better. But let's start with the fact the Bengals are 2-1 and are cleaning up teams that have been the dominate teams- Steelers and now Green Bay. And these wins haven't been by luck, these wins have been due to the tenacity and resilience of the team. This team while, I don't know if they will be a playoff contending team, they are definitely a team to continue to keep an eye on.
Honorable mention:
Although it pains me to say this Chicago deserves to be mentioned. With a new coach and a transformed Jay Cutler the team is definitely jelling. Cutler has grown into a different kind of QB. He has more energy for the position and seems to enjoy playing the game more than he has actually displayed in the past. It'll be interesting to see what happens when the Bears find themselves up against the ropes, but as much as I was disappointed in the whoppin the Steelers took by the Bears, the Bears played one HELL of a game!
Week 4 Predictions:
Thursday night--
Game Keesha's Prediction Reality
SF vs. STL SF SF- (35-11)
As of 9.25.2013- I cannot believe that SF can't get out of this rut. Whatever toxic energy is driving a wedge in the team, it needs to be figured out. I like Jim Harbaugh, especially in consideration of his brother, but I need him to be the coach- stay out of the headlines for your antics and your tantrums and coach your team through some wins.
9.30.2013-
SF finds it's rhythm and takes the W. Hopefully this momentum continues as the season continues.
9.15.2013
Week 2: Predictions, reality and more... Oh my!
Hey Y'all it's your FAVORITE SportsGal89 IN the buildin'! I must say I am enjoying being back and being in the full swing of my writing and sport watching. It has been fun getting my voice back and hopefully contributing to your love of sports as well.
I think that if I am going to take this seriously, I do need to study the craft a little more, so my next task is to read and keep up with sports bloggers so I can really craft my own voice.
But that's not why we are here right now. We are here because I am going to do what I should have done last week, and that was write my predictions.
Yes I missed the Jets- Pats game on Thursday but Sunday Funday and Madness Monday (don't ask) are where it's at!
Game Keesha's prediction Reality
STL- ATL (ATL) ATL (31-24)
CAR-BUF (CAR) BUF (24-23)*
MIN-CHI (CHI) CHI (31-30)
WSH- GB (GB) GB (38-20)
MIA - IND (IND) MIA (24-20)
DAL- KC (DAL) KC (17-16)*
SD- PHI (SD) SD (33-30)
CLE- BAL (BAL) BAL (14-6)
TEN- HOU (HOU) HOU (30-24)
DET-ARI (ARI) ARI (25-21)
NO-TB (NO) NO (16-14)
JAC-OAK (JAC) OAK (19-9)*
DEN-NYG aka Manning Bowl (DEN) DEN (41-23)
SF-SEA (SF) SEA (29-3)*
PIT-CIN (PIT) CIN (20-10)*
Not so bad for my predictions huh? 10 picks out of the 15 games..
This Week's notables:
Buffalo's win:
I think people will continue to talk about this game as long as EJ Manuel continues to develop as a great QB and leader on his team. The way this game ended was phenomenal. Buffalo was down minutes to spare, the rook Manuel at the helm. Remarkable play that he manipulated perfectly with his receiver wide open in the corner of the endzone. If you didn't see that highlight you need to. As a fan of the game, it is moments like those that you remember why you fell in love with the sport in the first place. It's in moments like those that the money, the cars, the superficial things that athletes focus on when they make it, fall away and you remember that how you play, what you do on the field is exactly you were supposed to. It was an awesome sight and what eclipsed the game and the win for Buffalo.
Baltimore vs. Cleveland:
There are teams in the NFL that are just expected to win, there are teams in the NFL that are just expected to lose. In all honesty, Baltimore is a team expected to win and Cleveland is a team expected to lose. Baltimore was expected to win in this match-up and yes the result was correct, they won. But they played so sloppy for a championship winning team. With offensive injuries Baltimore relied solely on their defense, as they should and it was their defense that carried them through game and successfully brought them the win.
Battle for the West: Seahawks vs. SF:
These two teams are the teams that are dominating the West. Of any game to watch in Week 2 aside from MNF, this was the game to watch. You have two of the fastest QBs who run when they have the opportunity, two of the best offenses and two of the best defenses in the 2013-2014 season. Watching this game was going to be fun AND it was! Seahawks defense dominated that game! They put the hurt on SF's running game and passing game. There was not a lot that the SF offense could do and it was really the Defense that did work. With that said, the Seahawks had an altogether package. Their offense and defense was seamless. Between Richard Sherman's spectacular coverage to the defense just stopping SF left and right, watching this team play was beautiful. The golden moment goes to Marshawn Lynch- yes, yes, I know he's a sports fan favorite, but I'm going to tell you why he gets the award though- there was a moment in the third or fourth quarter where Wilson and Lynch just hit a rhythm... Wilson throws this sweet little pass to Lynch who runs it out and then sees that he does not have any defenders on him. Stops, takes a look back and then WALKS into the endzone! Who does that?! Only Marshawn Lynch- STUPID for that one!
While this game didn't have the likely ending I wanted (SF taking the W) it was the highlight of my week 2- until the Steelers played in MNF.
Pittsburgh vs. Cincy:
Now y'all know that I am a STEELERS fan! I have been for the larger part of my adult life, so yes they would make the notables particularly because they are my team and I am FOCUSED on them. My team is STRUGG-U-LING!! We have released several players, restructuring our team with new rookies, trying to figure out what we are going to do with last week's rash of injuries. It's been a trying two weeks. We suffered through Pre-Season and I was just looking for a glimmer of hope that they would do great! And HELLO, it's CINCY!
Game started slow.. But we picked up speed and ended the first half with a great drive and tied the game. Then it went downhill, Cincy had a few great runs and then took off with a 20-10 lead and win.
How do we come back from this?
What do we need to do to get better?
It all rests on the team and the coaching staff. I would love for my team to win games, but right now I am more focused on their ability to develop as a better strong Steelers team. We'll see how they do in Week 3!
And that's all she wrote folks!
I think that if I am going to take this seriously, I do need to study the craft a little more, so my next task is to read and keep up with sports bloggers so I can really craft my own voice.
But that's not why we are here right now. We are here because I am going to do what I should have done last week, and that was write my predictions.
Yes I missed the Jets- Pats game on Thursday but Sunday Funday and Madness Monday (don't ask) are where it's at!
Game Keesha's prediction Reality
STL- ATL (ATL) ATL (31-24)
CAR-BUF (CAR) BUF (24-23)*
MIN-CHI (CHI) CHI (31-30)
WSH- GB (GB) GB (38-20)
MIA - IND (IND) MIA (24-20)
DAL- KC (DAL) KC (17-16)*
SD- PHI (SD) SD (33-30)
CLE- BAL (BAL) BAL (14-6)
TEN- HOU (HOU) HOU (30-24)
DET-ARI (ARI) ARI (25-21)
NO-TB (NO) NO (16-14)
JAC-OAK (JAC) OAK (19-9)*
DEN-NYG aka Manning Bowl (DEN) DEN (41-23)
SF-SEA (SF) SEA (29-3)*
PIT-CIN (PIT) CIN (20-10)*
Not so bad for my predictions huh? 10 picks out of the 15 games..
This Week's notables:
Buffalo's win:
I think people will continue to talk about this game as long as EJ Manuel continues to develop as a great QB and leader on his team. The way this game ended was phenomenal. Buffalo was down minutes to spare, the rook Manuel at the helm. Remarkable play that he manipulated perfectly with his receiver wide open in the corner of the endzone. If you didn't see that highlight you need to. As a fan of the game, it is moments like those that you remember why you fell in love with the sport in the first place. It's in moments like those that the money, the cars, the superficial things that athletes focus on when they make it, fall away and you remember that how you play, what you do on the field is exactly you were supposed to. It was an awesome sight and what eclipsed the game and the win for Buffalo.
Baltimore vs. Cleveland:
There are teams in the NFL that are just expected to win, there are teams in the NFL that are just expected to lose. In all honesty, Baltimore is a team expected to win and Cleveland is a team expected to lose. Baltimore was expected to win in this match-up and yes the result was correct, they won. But they played so sloppy for a championship winning team. With offensive injuries Baltimore relied solely on their defense, as they should and it was their defense that carried them through game and successfully brought them the win.
Battle for the West: Seahawks vs. SF:
These two teams are the teams that are dominating the West. Of any game to watch in Week 2 aside from MNF, this was the game to watch. You have two of the fastest QBs who run when they have the opportunity, two of the best offenses and two of the best defenses in the 2013-2014 season. Watching this game was going to be fun AND it was! Seahawks defense dominated that game! They put the hurt on SF's running game and passing game. There was not a lot that the SF offense could do and it was really the Defense that did work. With that said, the Seahawks had an altogether package. Their offense and defense was seamless. Between Richard Sherman's spectacular coverage to the defense just stopping SF left and right, watching this team play was beautiful. The golden moment goes to Marshawn Lynch- yes, yes, I know he's a sports fan favorite, but I'm going to tell you why he gets the award though- there was a moment in the third or fourth quarter where Wilson and Lynch just hit a rhythm... Wilson throws this sweet little pass to Lynch who runs it out and then sees that he does not have any defenders on him. Stops, takes a look back and then WALKS into the endzone! Who does that?! Only Marshawn Lynch- STUPID for that one!
While this game didn't have the likely ending I wanted (SF taking the W) it was the highlight of my week 2- until the Steelers played in MNF.
Pittsburgh vs. Cincy:
Now y'all know that I am a STEELERS fan! I have been for the larger part of my adult life, so yes they would make the notables particularly because they are my team and I am FOCUSED on them. My team is STRUGG-U-LING!! We have released several players, restructuring our team with new rookies, trying to figure out what we are going to do with last week's rash of injuries. It's been a trying two weeks. We suffered through Pre-Season and I was just looking for a glimmer of hope that they would do great! And HELLO, it's CINCY!
Game started slow.. But we picked up speed and ended the first half with a great drive and tied the game. Then it went downhill, Cincy had a few great runs and then took off with a 20-10 lead and win.
How do we come back from this?
What do we need to do to get better?
It all rests on the team and the coaching staff. I would love for my team to win games, but right now I am more focused on their ability to develop as a better strong Steelers team. We'll see how they do in Week 3!
And that's all she wrote folks!
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