First Music Post!

I know, I know. This is supposed to be a radio station and all we've had so far on the blog has been sports. Well, here ya go, our first ever music posting, brought to you by our new music correspondent, Andy Cuadrio. He'll be bringing you reviews on new music, updates from the music world, as well as some full fledged rants about music. Enjoy!

"Hello all. It's a pleasure to able to a part of this magnificent blog. It was truly an honor to be asked to give my piece of mind every week about the gorgeous world of music. But before we get started, I must get something off my chest: I know absolutely nothing about sports. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Ziltch.

I know what you're thinking. It's embarrassing. But it's cool. I understand that I'm a 21 year old University of Michigan student who honestly cannot explain a game of football if his life depended on it. I'm that guy who will sit through a football match with a group of guys and pretend like I know what's going on. Or when someone comes up to me and they assume that I'm a Wolverines fan they'll go on for hours about how great UM is, and I'll politely nod my head and agree with everything they say. The hard part comes when they ask me a question. Let's observe the following conversation:

Football Fan: "Hey buddy! Did you see Mike Hart's 14-yard gallop in the first quarter, which led to a 31-yard TD pass from Chad Henne to Adrian Arrington? It made Hart Michigan's all-time leading rusher!"

Me: "Oh yeah…that was awesome!? (awkward voice crack). But it kinda sucks that Mike Hart killed all those puppies. How can someone kill innocent animals?"

Football Fan: What are you? Fucking retarded?

Me: ….(slight head nod).

See what I mean? Well you see, back in my glory days, I was the short, chubby kid with glasses and braces who was picked last for everything. You know you're in bad shape when the rejects pick you last for their teams. Very traumatic but whatever. I got over it. So if you were expecting me to talk about how the Tigers will probably win the Super Bowl this year, don't even fucking talk to me. Now, if you want to buy me a cold beer and talk about the latest volume of Jock Jams, then you might have the best conversation of your life. Now with that said and out of the way, hopefully we'll all be open to what I have to say about our musical culture. (Yes, even if we have to talk about the beautiful Britney Spears, or even the Spice Girls reunion tour. Just kidding…?)


Do you ever get that feeling about a certain song or musician, that whenever you hear his/her song, you just wish they would go away and never come back? You know, just ship them off to an island so we'll never have to see them again. With God on our side, luckily they'll be eaten by a shark or starve to death. Just a thought. On my own personal island, Avril Lavigne reigns as queen. She sucks at life. I want her to suffer like Tom Hanks did in Cast Away. When she tries to make her escape on her homemade raft, hopefully she'll go under and we'll never see her again. Watch this video to truly see how bad she sucks.



Who likes Dashboard Confessional!?!? I did…until they released their horribly awful album, Dusk and Summer, last year. I must say, I was extremely upset. They failed me. They were there for me during my teen years. They helped me through my heart aches and what not. They were my best friends. They let me down. Fortunately for them, they released their latest LP The Shade of Poison Trees. If you are, or were, a Dashboard fan like myself, I think you're in for a pleasant surprise. With this album, DC returned to their roots: A more broken down, acoustic form. Although we will never get that true Dashboard (or shall I say Chris Carrabba) sound that we grew to love in our teenage years, this is the next best thing. So here it is: we're friends again. They'll be there for me when my heart is broken. They'll have a good cry with me. Thanks guys. You're real pals. I heart you.


Any one in particular on your island? Thoughts on the Dashboard album or any new album as of late? Let's discuss. Take it easy."

-- Andy Cuadrio

Week 5 NFL Picks

The best thing about professional football, is that every team has a chance of winning on every Sunday or Monday. It may not seem that way, but every the bad teams find a way to win at least once a year, and the really good teams find a way to lose at least one game every year. The parity in the NFL is what makes it the most popular sport in the US, because every teams fan base knows that no matter how bad they really are, they still may win because the teams are pretty even. This also makes the NFL a tough league to bet on, because the spreads are usually very small and heavy favorites often lose. Check out the Vegas spreads some time and look at the difference between college and pro football. This week in the NFL, only 4 games have a spread higher than a touchdown, so they are expecting every game to be close, every week. It's always more fun when your team has a chance to win. On to the picks, home teams in caps.


SAINTS (-3) over Panthers

The Saints have been a completely different team this year than what they were last year in their inspiring run to the NFC Championship Game. Reggie Bush has been found out for what he is, more of a 3rd down, screen or receiving back rather than an every down running back. The lose of Deuce McAllister will hurt them tremendously, and force Bush to be the main running back. He's shown his inability to run between the tackles and has been very ineffective in the passing game this year. Carolina has been up and down this year, relying on Steve Smith to carry the load for them. With Delhomme out and David Carr starting, the Panthers will try to run the ball with Foster and Williams, while the Saints will stack the line and force Carr to beat them. We saw how well that worked out for the Panthers last week.....


Jaguars (-2) over CHIEFS

I know, I know, the Chiefs looked a whole lot better last week in their comeback against the Chargers, but I am still not ready to believe that this team is any good. The Chiefs run game has been anemic and has forced Damon Huard to try o win the ballgame for them, and he is not capable of doing that. They only reason the Chiefs won last week was because their rookie wide receiver Dwayne Bowe utterly destroyed the Chargers. I don't expect a rookie wide receiver to carry a team like that every week, and especially against a very good Jaguars defense. The Jaguars will play good defense, run the ball with Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor, and Garrard will only have to complete a few passes for them to win. Not by much, but the Jags take this one.


Lions (+3.5) over REDSKINS

I like what the Redskins are doing this year, playing Jason Campbell and letting him struggle if he is going to struggle. The thing is, he hasn't really struggled, even if he hasn't been too consistent. He has a great arm and can let it fly on deep passes to Santana Moss and Antwaan Randel-El. The 'Skins defense is stout and they have the one-two punch of Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts in the run game. So why aren't I picking them? Because they are coming up against "God's Team" in the Lions. Jon Kitna has supposedly single-handily converted 20 Lions to Christianity. That's got to be some kind of record. But in all honesty, the Lions are starting to click offensively, especially in the passing game. Roy Williams is a legitimate stud at wide receiver and rookie Calvin Johnson has looked good too. Combined with getting 3.5 points this week, and the Lions are the pick.


Falcons (+8) over TITANS

Now, the Titans have looked good this year, and I trust Vince Young over most of the QBs in the league, and especially over Joey Harrington, but 8 points is just too much to pass up. The Titans defense has played well all year, and looked especially good against the Colts. Vince Young has carried this team on his legs and will continue to do so. The Falcons have looked horrendous at times, but are coming off of a win last week against Houston where they actually played some good football. That isn't a glowing recommendation of the Falcons, but hey, when in doubt, take the points.


TEXANS (-5.5) over Dolphins

Both teams are coming off of losses last week and are looking to bounce back. The Texans looked good before last weeks loss, where as the Dolphins layed down last week and didn't even put up a fight. I know Daunte Culpepper was fired up for some pay back action, but come on. The Dolphins didn't even show up to play football. The Texans need Ahman Green and Andre Johnson back, and this team will have a good chance to make the playoffs. Even without them this week, the Texans are just a better football team than the Dolphins.


STEELERS (-6) over Seahawks

Everyone and their mother will be taking the Seahawks with their 6 points today. I genuinely think that the Seahawks are one of the most overrated teams in the NFL, and just really aren't that good. Hasselback is very inconsistent and without a great line this year Shaun Alexander isn't that great either. Remember when he was unstoppable? What happened? On the other side, the Steelers have a little bit more defensively and I think Roethlisberger will do just enough this week. The line is a bit ridiculous, but I think the Steelers win by a touchdown.


Browns (16.5) over PATRIOTS

Yes, I am picking against the Patriots. I know they have demolished teams, and the Browns aren't exactly a good team, but come on, 16.5 points? This isn't college football, and the Browns have enough going on offense with Braylon Edwards and Jamal Lewis to score a few points. The Patriots may just be looking ahead this week and let the Browns creep up on them. It won't be an upset, but the Browns will cover.


Cardinals (-3.5) over RAMS

How are the Rams consistently favored every week before this week? Did they finally just get found out? How could people not have known this two weeks ago? They are terrible, and are now starting Gus Frerotte. In Arizona, the Cardinals will be starting Kurt Warner over Matt Leinart, which I think is a good move for them. Leinart isn't as great as everyone seemed to think last year, and the Cardinals need someone who can throw the ball out to Fitzgerald and Boldin and let them make plays. The Cardinals just have too many weapons for the Rams to handle.


GIANTS (-3.5) over Jets

The battle of the crappy New York teams is upon us. Who can suck harder this week? The Jets are starting Chad Pennington, and that gives them the best chance to lose every week. The Giants are getting Brandon Jacobs back this week and look how that defense flew around last weekend against Philly. Don't tell me that Pennington will have any chance at all of avoiding any pass rushers. He can barely move, barely throw, and shouldn't be a starting QB in the NFL. The sooner the Jets figure this out the sooner Jets fans will stop being put on suicide watch.


Bucs (+9.5) over COLTS

Similar to the Pats/Browns game, 9.5 points is just too much to pass up in this situation. Yes the Colts are good and can conceivably score a ton of points, but the Bucs defense is as good as it ever was. I don't get why teams get rid of Jeff Garcia either, he only wins games. Look at Philadelphia last year and the Niners before that. Garcia just knows how to win games and I don't understand why this guys is such a journeyman.


Chargers (+1) over BRONCOS

Simply put, the Broncos cannot stop the run and the Chargers have LT. If Norv Turner doesn't give LT at least 40 touches, LT may actually harm him. Seriously, has there been a worse front office decision in recent memory than the Chargers hiring Norv Turner. This guy is so bad that the fans were chanting for Marty Shottenheimer last week. The Broncos have too many injuries to overcome this week and still can't figure out how to tackle anyone. They are two plays away from being 0-4, and have a tough schedule in front of them. With Henry's future in doubt, the Broncos will be looking to reload for next year.


NINERS (+3) over Ravens

Here we go again.....when in doubt, take the points right? I cant figure out if Trent Dilfer is a good or a bad thing for them. The Niners were everyone's sleeper pick this year, and the bandwagon peaked a bit early with them. They certainly haven't lived up to their pre-season potential and the jury is still out on Alex Smith as an NFL QB. This will be Gore vs. McGahee all day, with this game possibly ending in a tie. Who knows. Take the points.


PACKERS (-3) over Bears

"Brett Favre is back!" Well......a little bit. Yes he has been great this year and has everyone talking about him and how much he's changed and buckled down, watched more film, and taken less chances. Here's the thing though, he hasn't taken more chances, he's been the same as he's always been, but he's just thrown less interceptions. The past few years you could tell if the Packers won by looking at the box score to see how many INTs Favre had thrown. None? Probably a win. 2-3? Probably a loss. With the Bears secondary depleted, look for Favre to have another good game. The Bears are in desperate need of a good QB, and let me just say that Brian Greise isn't the answer either.


Cowboys (-10) over BILLS

Yes I know it's 10 points and I've taken the points on almost every spread over 7, but it's the Cowboys against the Bills. It's just supposed to happen. I could not even know who was starting and tell you that the Cowboys will win. Throw in the ridiculous Cowboys offense with Romo and T.O., and the Cowboys will win by over two touchdowns. Speaking of Romo, has there been a better story this year (other than Favre)? Everyone loves the guy (including T.O), he throws up crazy fantasy numbers and he's dating Carrie Underwood. What's not to like?

Our Carr is a bit old, we need one with Les Miles

I, by far and away, have the least amount of hatred for Lloyd Carr out of anyone I know. I will let the statistics do the talking for me....116-38 record in his 11 year and 5 game stint as Michigan's head football coach, and that puts him among the winningest active football coaches in the NCAA Division I-A. His teams have won five Big Ten titles and one national championship in 1997. In addition, Michigan had been ranked in the Associated Press Top 25 for all but nine of its games under Carr. He became the first Wolverine coach to win four straight bowl games, beating Auburn, 31-28, on New Year's Day at the 2001 Florida Citrus Bowl, after leading Michigan to victories in the 1998 Rose Bowl, 1999 Florida Citrus Bowl, and the 2000 Orange Bowl. He has finished no lower than 4th in the Big Ten, and that happened in his second year as the head coach, in 1996. Carr has a .500 or better winning percentage against every one of Michigan's rivals, including a 9-3 record against Michigan State and a 9-2 record against Penn State. Even with these impressive numbers, Carr can't seem to find any support from the Michigan faithful. It seems that Carr has been on the fans' hot seat for the past 6 years, with countless "Fire Lloyd Carr" websites and t-shirts that can been seen every football Saturday. So what's the big deal? Why does everyone hate him?

Michigan fans expect to win a national championship every year, or at least be in contention for it. Although it appears that Michigan has don't that the past few years, they have ended every season on a sour note, and have been overpowered, over matched, and over coached in their late season "championship contender" games. Carr has a 5-7 record in bowl games, and has lost 5 out of the last 6 bowl games. Michigan has won 1 out of 4 Rose Bowls they have played in, and have lost each of the last 3 times they have gone to Pasadena. Michigan was dominated in both Rose Bowl appearances against USC, when it looked like the teams were fairly evenly matched before the games. Bowl games (especially the games around New Year's Day) are when all of the football watching country tunes in and finds out who the best teams are. When Michigan consistently lays an egg in their bowl game, it doesn't tend to sit too well with Michigan fans and their pride.

Now the biggie.......Carr has a 6-6 record against Ohio State, and he pulled off a couple of upsets early in his head coaching career that kept Ohio State from winning the national title. But Carr has lost 5 out of the last 6 games against Ohio State, and has been visibly and thoroughly out coached by Jim Tressel. This more than anything has the Michigan faithful up in arms and ready to take Carr out to the woodshed. The Appalachian St. loss and Michigan's inability to handle anyone who has a spread offense or a running quarterback (ahem, Vince Young running all over us in the Rose Bowl, Troy Smith last year, Dennis Dixon this year) have only reinforced what most people already knew: Michigan needs to enter the 21st century of college football. No more underachievement, no more stagnant offense, no more conservative coaching, and definitely no more being out coached in the big games. Michigan has the talent, now the coaching just needs to catch up.

So what do we do? Where do we go? The best thing about this whole situation is Lloyd Carr's contract. Michigan reworked Lloyd Carr's contract in 2003, extending it through the 2007 season with automatic one-year rollovers and stipulating that, at its conclusion, Carr will be appointed an associate athletics director. In other words, Michigan can usher Lloyd Carr into a front office role, without having to fire him from the head coaching job. This is a move that befits his records and his accolades, and one that I would personally like to see happen. That leaves an opening after this year for a new head football coach. All I ask from Bill Martin, Michigan's Athletic Director, is to please please please please please not promote from within. I know Ron English is getting a lot of publicity lately but he is not a head coach. He can't even get his defense to make a freaking tackle. Mike DeBord can't seem to call a third down play where a receiver actually runs a pattern past the first down marker. How many times did Braylon Edwards and now Mike Hart bail out the play calling? Can't think of a good play? Throw it up to Braylon and have him single-handedly make a spectacular catch. Can't come up with a new pass play? Hand if off to Mike Hart and have him carry 7 defenders for 20 yards. How many of those "immediately throw the ball to a receiver who takes one step and turns around" plays can we run for 1 or 2 yards before they stop calling that play? At times it's unbelievable how many times the entire crowd knows exactly what play will be called next.

That would leave Michigan looking for outside coaching prospects. With the list too numerous to name, I will make a case for the one guy who has stood out to me and made me think that this change can and will happen: Les Miles. Les Miles is currently the head football coach at LSU, but has deep roots in the University of Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan where he was a two year letterman under Coach Bo Schembechler from 1974 to 75. In 1980, Miles returned to Michigan as an assistant coach under Schembechler. He left Michigan in 1982 to coach at the University of Colorado with Coach Bill McCartney, but he returned to Michigan in 1987 and, for the next eight years, helped lead the team to eight consecutive winning seasons and bowl appearances. In 1995, Miles became offensive coordinator at Oklahoma State University and during the 1998 through 2000 seasons he was the tight ends coach for the Dallas Cowboys. Miles returned to OSU in 2001 as the head coach, and joined LSU in 2005. Miles has a 26-4 record at LSU and has consistently won big games and bowl games. When was the last time Michigan did something like this:



Ummmmm, the answer is never. Just look at how the players and coaches react to him on the sidelines. You can just tell that they love playing for him and that he is the type of guy that can connect with his players, and keep things fresh and exciting. Miles has also done very little to hide the fact that he would love a chance to be the head coach at Michigan. He is an honest guy and tends to show that during interviews. He doesn't say outright that he won't leave LSU for Michigan, and he does leave the door very open with some of his quotes. LSU athletic director Skip Bertman has always known that this was a possibility when they hired him, which is why he wrote up the contract in which Miles must pay $500,000 to leave before his contract expires at the end of 2011, and $1.25 million if he leaves for Michigan. That shows that Bertman has been scared of this happening from the beginning. There is no question that Michigan would cover that cost for him if he ends up being hired, it's just that it almost seems inevitable when you include something like that in the contract.





Michigan needs a new coaching staff, and with a very good senior class graduating this year, it just seems like a good time to make that change. Whether or not Michigan goes with Les Miles won't be clear until after the season, but I for one will be a Les Miles supporter. Now, if they don't make a change AT ALL, my Michigan posts may just become a little more harsh.....





Don't hesitate to leave us a comment and let us know who you think the next Michigan head coach should be!

MLB Playoff Predictions and Preview Part 2

Now on to the ALDS. As a Dodgers fan, I tend to follow the National League a bit closer than I do the American League, but it's not too difficult to follow the AL because all you ever get on ESPN is Yankees and Red Sox news. I am also somewhat biased against most of the teams in the American League playoffs, but I promise not to let that get into the way. It's hard not to be biased as a West Coast sports fan when you mainly get great highlights from East Coast, mostly AL, teams. The Red Sox and Yankees dominate the news, so it's easy for someone 3,000 miles away from that area to resent that. And don't get me started on the Anaheim Angels ( I refuse to call them the Los Angeles Angels, they're not even in LA County!) The match ups are good in the AL, and should have some high scoring series.


ALDS
Red Sox/Angels







Both teams went 7-7 in their last 14 games, and sort of cruised into the playoffs. The Red Sox held off the charging Yankees, but gave up enough of their lead to put a lump in a few Red Sox fans' throats. Even though they finished with the best record in the majors, it just didn't feel like that. They got out to a big lead in the division which gave them enough space to win it even when they weren't playing too well. They maybe took their foot off of the gas a little bit, possibly looking to the playoffs a bit too soon. The Angels won the AL West by 6 games, and no one in that division was too much of a threat. The Mariners were close at one point in the season, but the Angels thoroughly trounced them and showed their dominance. The Angels definitely put it in cruise control down the stretch, and looked to rest some of their stars. In terms of momentum, neither team comes in especially hot. Momentum Edge: Even


Offensively, both teams are stacked. They each have a legitimate star, as well as proven hitters and young up and comers who have played very well. Unfortunately, both teams also have a few injuries that are going to impact their offenses. Gary Matthews Jr. has been left off of the Angels playoff roster. Should they beat the Red Sox, he will be eligible to return. That means that Chone Figgins or Reggie Willets will be playing center field. This impacts them offensively but even more defensively, which I will bring up later. Vladimir Guerrero has an imflamed right tricep muscle, and it is unclear how much that will effect him. Obviously, without Vladdy, the Angels are done. I think it will force him to be the DH, which again will only impact them defensively. It's tough to out-do the Red Sox offensively, with Big Papi, Manny, Varitek, Mike Lowell, J.D. Drew, Youkilis, and Coco Crisp. Drew has stepped it up as of late but most of Red Sox nation wants Jacoby Ellsbury to start in his place. Ellsbury has played well and knowing J.D Drew from personal experience, I wouldn't trust Drew in the playoffs. The only concern in their lineup right now would be Manny. Manny hasn't been Manny, especially in September. The Red Sox offense is not quite as good as they used to be, and the Red Sox will need Manny to produce for them to win it all. Offense Edge: Red Sox


Defensively, both teams are shaky. With Matthews Jr. out, and Vlad possibly being limited to DH only, that leaves Figgins and Willets playing right and center field respectively. With an ageing Garret Anderson in left and a new catcher, the Angels just aren't that good defensively. It doesn't get too much better in Boston, with their outfield play being almost unbearable. It doesn't get too much better in the infield, with Lowell and Youkilis being a bit slow for their position and Lugo having a nightmare season defensively. Defense Edge: Even


Starting pitching is where this series gets interesting. Josh Beckett(20-7) and John Lackey(19-9) are very similar pitchers. Both have overpowering fastballs, both have the same attitude, and both are not afraid to knock someone off of the plate. You could almost have these guys switch uniforms and get the same performances from them. After Beckett, the Red Sox will throw Daisuke Matsuzaka(15-12) and Curt Schilling(9-8). The Angels will counter with Kelvim Escobar(18-7) and Jered Weaver(13-7). Dice-K has had an up and down year, and is really a mystery at this point trying to predict how he will react to the pressure packed playoffs. We all know what Schilling (and his bloody sock) can do, but he has definitely declined this year and his age may show. On the flip side, Escobar has had a fantastic season and Weaver has shown spots of brilliance, as well as a bit of consistency. It's tough to go against the experience of the Red Sox pitching, but I think the Angles are up to the task. Starting Pitching Edge: Even


This is where I think the series will be won and lost. Nothing but questions out of the Red Sox bullpen, with the Red Sox really only having one reliable reliever in Jonathon Papelbon (1.85 ERA, 37 SV). Monsieur Gagne (3.81 ERA) has been anything but his old self after the Red Sox traded for him this summer. Okajima (2.22 ERA) has a "tired arm" and who knows what they can get out of him. The Angels at least have Scot Shields (3.86 ERA) who can hold it down before they turn it over to K-Rod (2.81 ERA, 40 SV). They also have Darren Oliver (3.78 ERA) and Dustin Moseley (4.40 ERA)who have been consistent. As I said earlier, this is where the series will be won and lost, and there are too many questions with the Red Sox bullpen that won't be answered in time. Relief Pitching Edge: Angels


Most of the sports pundits (and ESPN) have written this series off as a Red Sox victory. Here's the thing about the Angels, they don't go away and they find a way to win with guys you've never heard of. Mike Scioscia is one of the best managers in the game, and they have consistently won playoff series over the past few years. They will need to find a way to score some runs, but I think they will be able to do so late in games off of the Red Sox relievers. Final Prediction: Angels in 5



ALDS
Indians/Yankees






The Indians finished tied with Boston for the best record in the majors. They've been right on the cusp the last few years, and with a core group of young players they finally put it all together this year and had a fantastic season. The Indians won the AL Central by 8 games, and still finished with a solid 11-5 record over their last 16 games. The Yankees on the other hand put pressure on the Red Sox for the AL East, and comfortably wrapped up the Wild Card by 6 games, and finished 11-5 over their last 16 games as well. The Yankees had a little bit more to play for down the stretch, and are feeling pretty good about how they finished the season. The Indians basically just stayed the course and played consistently well all season, but didn't really play for anything down the stretch. Momentum Edge: Yankees


Everyone knows the Yankees have paid to have the best starting lineup, and on paper they certainly do. A-Rod, Jeter, Giambi, Posada, Abreu, and Damon are all-stars, and they younger players aren't too shabby either. They can go for a slump now and again, and A-Rod will need to prove that he can take this team on his back in the playoffs. Don't look past the Indians though, as Sizemore and Hafner are legitimate studs. Add Victor Martinez and the Indians can definitely score runs. It's now or never for A-Rod, and I think he gets it done. Offense Edge: Yankees


Defensively, both teams have their hits and misses. Jeter and A-Rod are two of the best in the game, and Damon can patrol the middle, but the other outfielders aren't anything special defensively. The Indians have a great infield defensively and Grady Sizemore is a human highlight reel. Defense Edge: Indians


Like the other series, the starting pitching is where this series starts to get interesting. C.C. Sabathia(19-7) will likely win the AL Cy Young Award, and Fausto Carmona(19-8) isn't too far behind him. Together they have won 38 games this year, the most by any two teammates. If this series goes five games, the Yankees probably will see the two pitchers start three times, which doesn't bode well for them. Jake Westbrook(6-9) will likely start the third game. The Yankees will counter with Chien-Ming Wang(19-7), Andy Pettitte(15-9), and either Mike Mussina(11-10) or Roger Clemens(6-6). Wang has had a spectacular season, but the rest of the rotation looks like it's 2000 again. The old arms won't be enough for the Indians young guns. Starting Pitching Edge: Indians


The Indians bullpen will need to step up if they are going to win this series. The Indians bullpen's ERA is 3.77, fourth-best in the league. But they will be playing the Yankees, who can win a game in one bad late inning. The Indians bullpen is lead by lefty Rafael Betancourt(1.47 ERA), who is holding the opposition to a .183 batting average, and has nine walks and 80 strikeouts in 79 1/3 innings. Lefty Rafael Perez(1.78 ERA) has a .187 batting average against, with 15 walks and 62 strikeouts in 60 2/3 innings. The weak link is closer Joe Borowski (5.07 ERA, 45 SV), who has the highest ERA of any pitcher ever with at least 40 saves. Borowski also had a meltdown at Yankee Stadium when he allowed six runs in the ninth inning. That is definitely going to be on his mind when he is trying to close a game out in New York. Now, Mariona Rivera(3.15 ERA, 30 SV) is certainly not who he used to be, but he still has a bit of swagger left in him. Kyle Farnsworth(4.80 ERA) and Joba Chamberlain (0.38 ERA) are big, powerful right-handers who have overpowering stuff. Joba has been nearly unhittable, but has shown that he is not super-human. Relief Pitching Edge: Even


The Indians pitching will need to keep the powerful Yankee bats at bay, and Sabathia and Carmona will need to win all of their games to make it happen. I really want to write that the Indians will win this series, I really do. They have the pitching and the bullpen to make it happen. But it's the Yankees. I hate them, and they'll probably win. Final Prediction: Yankees in 5










Final Predicitions:


Yankees over Indians
Angels over Red Sox
Phillies over Rockies
Diamondbacks over Cubs


Yankees over Angels
Phillies over Diamondbacks


Phillies over Yankees

MLB Playoff Preview and Predictions

With the Dodgers participating in their annual tragedy, "stay in it long enough to get people's hopes up and force everyone to set themselves up for the inevitable crap the bed moment during the last few weeks of the season". Which this year played out with the Dodgers losing 11 out of their last 14 games. Obviously I've come to expect this every year, and did everything I could to not jump on the Dodgers' late season bandwagon that claims a few new victims every year. More on the Dodgers in a few months...

Now, normally I don't care about the playoffs of any sport once my team is out of it, but after watching the Padres/Rockies 13 inning wild card playoff game last night, (watching the Padres lose never hurts), I started to get a little excited about the playoffs. So what the hell, here's a preview with my predictions.

NLDS

Rockies/Phillies

Best match up of the first round if you ask me. Both teams are coming off of amazing finishes to the season, with the Phillies becoming the third team since 1900 to overcome a seven-game deficit in September and beat the Mets for the NL East. The Rockies on the other hand only won 14 out of their last 15 games(!), capping it off last night with a thrilling victory by beating Trevor Hoffman in the bottom of the 13th. It's safe to say that these teams have an equal amount of momentum heading into this series. Momentum Edge: Even

The Phillies seem to have an edge with their lineup, boasting last year's MVP in Ryan Howard and this year's MVP candidate, Jimmy Rollins. Not to mention Chase Utley and Aarond Roward, the Phillies have some pop in that lineup. Colorado isn't too shabby either, but MVP candidate Matt Holliday and ROY candidate Troy Tulowitzki will have to carry these young Rockies if they are going to win the series. I know they have Tood Helton, but he isn't the superstar he used to be, but still a very good 3 in that lineup. Offense Edge: Phillies

Defensively, both teams are solid. Tim Kurkjian of ESPN.com called Colorado's defense, "the best in the game". The Rockies made only 68 errors, fewest in the major leagues, 15 fewer than any other National League team. They made 180 double plays, second most in the major leagues. The defense is anchored by the shortstop Tulowitzki, who committed eleven errors on the season. The Phillies aren't too bad defensively, with Rollins at short and Roward giving up his body out in center, they can make plays. Howard is a weak spot at first though, and proved this the other night when he dropped a ball at first and couldn't pick up in, letting a run score. Defense Edge: Colorado

Starting pitching is where this series gets a bit more interesting. Both teams have relied on offensive output to carry them through the end of the season, surviving some poor outputs from their starters. The Phillies look like they are going to throw Hamels (15-5), Kendrick (10-4), Moyer (14-12) and possibly Lohse (9-12). Colorado is going to go with Francis (17-9), Morales (3-2), Jimenez (4-4), and possible Fogg (10-9). Although Francis is a very good starter (even though he's Canadian), but doesn't have commanding stuff or a low ERA. I know he played in Colorado, but ERA can really tell a lot about a pitcher and can sometimes be overshadowed but the amount of wins a pitcher has. Morales and Jimenez are basically new talents and have really yet to prove themselves, especially on a large stage. Hamels on the other hand is a legitimate talent. He has commanding stuff and his Johan Santana-like change up is at times, unhittable. Moyer is ancient but can still be counted on, and Kendrick is much the same as Morales and Jimenez, unproven and the results are somewhat unknown. Starting Pitching Edge: Phillies

The relievers aren't much better than the starters, but have played relatively well down the stretch. The Rockies boast Brian Fuentes, Jeremy Affeldt, LaTroy Hawkins, with newcomer Manny Corpas taking over the closer role from Fuentes. The Rockies' relievers have have stepped up recently, with Corpas earning saves in 5 out of their last 9 games. The Phillies relievers have taken some slack throughout the year, but have also done well down the stretch. The Phillies have Tom Gordon, Antonio Alfonseca, Jose Mesa, J.C. Romero, and Brett Myers closing. All of those guys have been closers at one point in their careers, and have a vast amount of experience in tight situations. Romero also boast an ERA of just over 1.00 in his past 52 appearances. Myers has been hit and miss with a 4.33 ERA but has closed out the important games on their win streak. Too close for me to call. Pitching Relief Pitching Edge: Even


All in all this series should be the best of the first round. Expect a lot of scoring from both of these clubs, especially when the series is in Colorado. Both teams are very even but I expect Howard, Rollins, and the rest of the Phillies lineup to continue hitting the ball well and to carry them into the next round. Final Prediction: Phillies in 5

NLDS

Diamondbacks/Cubs

The other national league matchup can be best described as the "something to prove" match up. The "Baby Backs" have been riding their young stars the entire year, and have proven many a sports writer and critic wrong. Most people thought that the Diamondbacks would tire out, and that their young guys would decline toward the end of the year and slowly drop down to about third or fouth in the NL West. The backs held onto their lead and finished 6-5 down the stretch, not exactly a powerful finish, but they seemed to win every single must-win game during that span. The Cubs went 12-6 over their last 18 games, winning the NL Central by 2 games over the Brewers. Cubs fans (like many Dodger fans) are cynical by nurture, after having endured countless depressing and sometimes devastating losses over the years. This leaves them with that sinking feeling of inevitable doom while watching their team. Surprisingly, they are usually willing to give them one more chance, and often times have a weird sense of unwarranted optimism. The Bartman incident from a few years back seemed to cement their unlucky and doomed status, but the 2004 Boston Red Sox proved that history can be forgotten in one year. By holding off the Brewers this year and winning the division, Cubs fans seem to think that this year may just be the year, as Cubs teams of old would have squandered that division for sure. As for momentum, both teams were counted out at one point this season, and both of them are now dancing in the playoffs. Momentum Edge: Even

On paper, this isn't even a contest. The Cubs lineup includes Derrek Lee, Alfonso Soriano, Aramis Ramirez, Cliff Floyd, and Jacque Jones. Now, Derrek Lee and Cliff Floyd are certainly not what they used to be, but Ramirez and Soriano should still be enough for them to have an offensive edge. For the Diamondbacks, Chris Young is their only real homerun threat, with Eric Byrnes adding a little pop. But somehow, the Diamondbacks have produced enough runs to win 90 games this season. They may not have your prototypical numbers, but they get it done. Offense Edge: Cubs

Defensively, neither team has shown consistency. The Cubs outfield play has been atrocious, and Stephen Drew has 17 errors at shortstop for the Diamondbacks. The only difference between the two teams is Eric Byrnes, who can pull off a web gem with the best of them. Defense Edge: Diamondbacks


The Cubs spent big money during the season to extend Carlos Zambrano's contract. He's a very emotional pitcher, which has somewhat endeared him to the Cubs' fanbase. He has commanding stuff, but has been anything from stable. He can be erratic, and if you get to him early in the game he is a definite non-factor and will tend to implode. He has been very good lately. He hasn't allowed a run in his past two starts, covering 13 innings. But he had a 7.06 ERA in August, which followed a July in which he had a 1.38 ERA. After Zambrano (18-13) the Cubs will pitch Ted Lilly (15-8) and Rich Hill (11-8), two lefthanders with similar pitching styles. Despite Hill's ridiculous curveball, neither one of those pitchers should be something to be afraid of. On the flip side, the Diamondbacks have Brandon Webb (18-10), who is very consistent and has the ability to dominate every game he pitches. Last year's Cy Young winner, Webb threw 42 1/3 consecutive scoreless innings this year, including three consecutive complete game shutouts. The Diamondbacks will then turn to Doug Davis (13-12) and Livan Hernandez (11-11). Hernandez has the ability to lull you to sleep and throw you changeups all day long, keeping you in the park. He's a proven playoff pitcher and tends not to get shelled. Starting Pitching Advantage: Diamondbacks


Again, on paper, this isn't even a contest. The Diamondbacks led the majors in saves this year, with Jose Valverde saving 47 out of a possible 51 games. Brandon Lyon (2.71 ERA), Tony Pena (3.27), Doug Slaten (2.72) and Juan Cruz (87 strikeouts in 61 innings) all contribute to this bullpen, which, with the lack of offense in Arizona, was the main contributor to their NL West division title. The Diamondbacks were also 32-20 in one run games this year, which usually shows the effects of a good bullpen. The Cubs bullpen has held it together for the most part of the year, and with the emergence of Carlos Marmol (1.43 ERA) the pen has definitely gotten a boost. Bob Howry (3.32 ERA), Scott Eyre (4.13), and Michael Wuertz (3.48 ERA) make up the bullpen, that has shown some signs of improvement in recent weeks. The closer, Ryan Dempster (4.73 ERA and 28 SV) strikes fear into the hearts of Cubs fans everywhere, and is certainly the weakest part of the Cubs bullpen. Relief Pitching Edge: Diamondbacks


After writing this preview, I guess I am more excited for this series than I thought. But mainly just because I want to see what the Cubs can do this time to devastate their fans. Every time I look at the Cubs and their roster, nothing jumps out at me and makes me think that they can win this series. I guess they can continue the theme of this preview and prove me wrong, but I just think the the Diamondbacks pitching will overpower their hitters and the Cubs bullpen will give up any lead that they may have. The Diamondbacks have found a way to win all year and I think that will continue with this series. Final Prediction: Diamondbacks in 4

AL & World Series Predictions coming tomorrow.......

Big Ten Network

By now most of you have heard of the Big Ten Network, the new television network that will cover only Big Ten Conference games. I like the idea, but there's a few things that immediately turned me off to the Big Ten Network. First was this commercial/advertisement that I first saw while in Michigan last year:



Now, I'm all for cheesy sports montages, and I can get past the lame use of clips from the movies Good Will Hunting and the ESPN special, A Season on the Brink, but the commercials did very little to get me motivated to watch and support their new network. All it did was show parts of each Big Ten school's campus, a couple of very old game highlights, and some inspiring background music. What they didn't say, was that the Big Ten Network will only be available on DirecTV, DISH Network, and AT&T (who gets AT&T television??). Despite the network's success with satellite providers, major cable companies such as Charter, Comcast and Time Warner Cable have yet to reach an agreement to broadcast the channel. The reported subscriber rates requested by the Big Ten Network is $1.10 per subscriber per month within the eight-state Big Ten region and carriage on an expanded basic tier. Outside the eight-state Big Ten region, the network is reportedly asking for $0.10 per subscriber per month and carriage on a digital basic tier. Currently, major cable companies have declined to carry the network on their basic tier as the Big Ten requests, which has led to a situation similar to those of the NFL Network and broadband network ESPN360 where fans will miss many live games because their cable provider does not carry the Big Ten Network.

I understand that it needs to start somewhere, and this is exactly how CSTV started and became popular, but at the same time, CSTV is now only a PPV channel on non-satellite cable providers. The Big Ten Network will never be able to outpay what ESPN (and they boys at Disney) does for the Big Ten television contract. So at best, the Big Ten Network will only get 3 or so football/basketball games per school, and rely on broadcasting all of the other sports. Basically, it's CSTV for the Big Ten with a few football and basketball games thrown in.

The second major issue that I have with the Big Ten Network has to do with their claim that "all of its live events will be produced in HDTV. The Big Ten Network will produce more original High-Definition programming than any new network in television history." This sounds great right? If only their version of HD actually looked like other versions of HD. While watching the Appalachian St. vs. Michigan game at a friend's house who has DirecTV (gonna be a while until I can safely talk about that game by the way), we began flipping the channel back and forth from ESPN to the Big Ten Network. It was a bit obvious that the quality of the ESPN picture was a lot better than that on the Big Ten Network, just like ESPN is way better than Fox Sports in terms of broadcast quality, it just is. But even worse, when ESPN was relaying the half time highlights, it looked ten times better than the actual game on the Big Ten Network!

So what's that big deal? It's just annoying when people try to do things like this and the result is the each school's fan base possibly not being able to see 2-3 games of their favorite team. In my case, I think it's a bit ridiculous that a national power like Michigan won't have every one of their games nationally televised, let alone in the state of Michigan. I've got a bad feeling that all of the big conferences are going to try something like this, and we're going to be stuck either paying for every conference channel or only getting regional games. I kind of just like it the way it is.

New Blog!

Welcome to the Go Blue Radio blog! What is Go Blue Radio you ask? Go Blue Radio is a new internet radio station combining sports, talk, and music. This blog will not only bring you updates concerning Go Blue Radio, but will also have sports-related commentaries and articles, as well as podcasts and streaming Go Blue Radio! Get excited and check back often for updates on how you can get Go Blue Radio. In the meantime, please send any inquiries to goblueradio@gmail.com and be sure to tell us what you would like to hear on Go Blue Radio.