Comparisons coming already to the greats for Jay Cutler?

As it is in the NFL, the during the week banter the beat reporters churn out is sometimes on point, other times a bit out of left field.
I'm not really sure how to take what I read when hitting up the Chicago Tribune today to get some daily reading in on Da Bears.
"Top Story: Is Cutler the Next Tom Brady?" Was the first thing I saw on the page. At first, I'm thinking, OK, not a bad guy to be compared to, but OK, Let's read this story and see the points Rick Morrissey makes. (He does actually number a couple of them) Take a look here.
I'll go along with No. 1 on the list which (paraphrasing) says because the offensive line has been a bit inconsistent Ron Turner is calling shorter drops (3-5 steps) which means shorter routes for the receivers to run and less likelihood they can mess them up. No real problem with this. It's called avoiding a weakness. It was evident in the Packers game when there was a lot of time for Jay in the pocket the receivers weren't on the same wavelength as him.
That Packers game was a wake-up call for Jay to tighten the reigns as someone cornered him and laid down the law. Of course, as the story says, no one within the Bears will come out and say who or what was said to Jay, but either way for two games he seems to have gotten the message.
If that warrants a comparison to Tom Brady, who can make the most with his line and be very successful with short drops to exploit defenses, than fine. I'll go along with it.
He has no doubt shown his clutch ability in the last two games and even against the Packers, he came around and actually put the Bears in the lead with 7 minutes left before the game got away in the end.
My take is this, let's not anoint him. I think everyone as fans did enough of that in the preseason and got disappointed in Game 1. Let's not do that again. He's Jay Cutler. He's no John Elway, Thank you, end of story!

If you know me, you know I'm a rather big fan of "How I Met Your Mother" and some have even gone as far as to call me a true-life Ted Mosbey, the lead character in the show. (Vaughan and Amy, I thank you!)
One of the girls on the show, Alyson Hannigan, who plays Lilly on the show, was on David Letterman the other night. She was pretty funny. Enjoy!



Found this one today on the Twitter page of Jimmy Traina, you know the guy who runs SI.com's Hot Clicks I always talk about? Well it is Breast Cancer awareness month and Alyson and Mrs. Derek Jeter, Minka Kelly, talk about boobs. Pretty funny and rather hot!

THE BOOBY SCARE Featuring Alyson Hannigan, Emily Deschanel, Kat McPhee, Minka Kelly and Jaime King - watch more funny videos

OK, now for today's Nussie Hunter. I have been looking for a reason to put Jessica Biel on these pages and finally got word today. Justin Timberlake as cool as he is, broke up with her recently and Ms. Biel is now single. If you're reading this Jessica, my phone number is.... Haha!

A Milwaukee native breaking the Bears starting lineup?

No Brewers game yesterday means I had time to turn my attention and reading for the day over the the Bears and actually break some things down from Sunday's big win over the Seahawks.
The news dominating the headlines today is Nick Roach (You can find him on Twitter here!). The Milwaukee Lutheran High School alum, who went on to attend Northwestern University started the year as the Bears' third middle linebacker and now he's the starter as Hunter Hillenmayer went out with a rib injury.
I've watched some tape and read some stories on him (Tribune and CB.com have stories) and Roach almost seems to be the better play for what the Bears want to do with the Mike linebacker. He's got a faster step than Hunter and has a knack for the ball as was seen on the play where he forced Seneca Wallace into throwing a ball that was picked off after a great play by Lance Briggs. Of course no one replaces No. 54, but they have to make due and Roach could be just the guy.
That means Jamar Williams will start on the strong side with Roach and Briggs going across the line. Lance is going to have to earn his stripes and that "C" he was voted to have when Urlacher went down and for the last two weeks, I'd say he has come through. Now if only we can have those four guys in front of the linebackers (you know the line) step up to get a consistent pass rush, the Bears could be in good shape to protect that suspect defensive backfield.

What I have next are some items from SI.com's Hot Clicks. Yeah, I'm going to put them here because they are funny and worth it. That and Jimmy Traina is on his shit. So why not.
Here's this diagram that is featured on cracked.com. And well, I couldn't resist because it's very true. I cover football games and the sideline is the best place to be. As a fan, anywhere else and you could be missing out.



Having watched some Brewers sing karaoke the other night I can appreciate an athlete that can carry a tune. Well, Marquette alum Dwyane Wade is not one of those that can do that. Be sure to check this. Don't quit your day job buddy.



Not sure if you saw this the other night, but Conan had to cancel a taping of the tonight show after he suffered a concussion. Take a look at this first for the race and second for Teri Hatcher. Don't say I never give you any advice!



We have arrived at today's Nussie Hunter portion of the broadcast and as I was combing the Web today, I came across this list at Gunaxin.com which recounts the best celebrity boobs of the last decade. (Expect more lists like this as the year ends, btw) Take a look for yourself here, but I would like to file a complaint and say that while Selma Hayek is the reason why Latin women are high on my list and she should be high on the list. Giving her the No. 1 spot when Keeley Hazell looks absolutely incredible is somewhat of a petty crime. I mean just look at her! Go ahead!

It had to end, but that doesn't mean I wanted it to

I didn't know how I would feel about it when I got to thinking Sunday morning on my final approach to Miller Park, but I knew I would feel something. So the game didn't go as planned, but by the time the bottom of the ninth came around, there was still some fight in our 2009 Brewers in a 6-5 game.
As the outs and strikes picked up, I started to think about this being the final at-bat. And with Prince standing on third base and two outs, I didn't really care about what the guy behind me, around me or in front of me was doing, but damnit, I was going to pull everything out of this final inning in the place I go to forget about everything else. Then as the dickhead of an umpire called a strike three to send the Brewers out of town, I could do nothing more than admire what should be considered one of the greatest "Cathedrals of Baseball."
Yeah I got choked up. This was my 18th game of the season and a summer that had great friendships formed and others started. I even did my best to share the awesomeness by bringing my kid sister, Kelly, three hours for her first game.
I am fortunate enough to have friends with connections which gives me the ability to attend multiple games (I went to 6 of the last 9 on the final home stand) so this is my place and my team. There are people that would ridicule a guy like myself, or RJ (aforementioned friend with season tix) for living and dying in sports, but those people are also ones that don't have any sort of clue in life. Sports are my emotional escape and at around 4:30 yesterday, it was kind of a mixed ball of emotions coming out of me. I don't know what I'm going to do this winter. As much as I love the Bears and live and die with them just the same, there's something about baseball and the Brewers that brings it out of me.
On the other side of sadness, is extreme happiness and enjoyment. And that was my Sunday night. With a little help from my friend Trish (who dished a players postgame hangout), this baseball nerd strapped on his party hat and was not disappointed.
I won't say where (if I know you, I've divulged details), but I will say Todd Coffey is a fucking hilarious dude ("That's 1 of 30. Everybody's getting drunk and puking tonight" was the line he used I believe), Mitch Stetter great shit and John Axford is funny. Manny Parra keeps to himself, which I have no problem with, and Claudio Vargas keeps an eye on Alcides Escobar.
Oh boy. We lived the life last night, the drinks were great, the bartenders gorgeous (Trish!), and the Brewers just great dudes.
Todd Coffey, sir, I will own your T-Shirt jersey next year. After the media guide, that's the first purchase being made in 2010!



Amidst all of the Brewers fun and reflection, my football team, the Chicago Bears, pulled out another win. This one in big comeback fashion, as Jay Cutler led another scoring drive as time wound down. This time Devin Hester hauled in a great catch and broke a tackle to get to the house. That's 2-1 now with the Lions coming to Soldier Field next Sunday at high noon.
For those that are going to give the "Lions are hot now, look out!" speeches, the fact the Lions won last week will not allow the Bears to overlook this team heading into the bye week. (I'd give you more breakdown, but the Brewers ran the day yesterday). Maybe tomorrow.

For some video, I got something for you that requires some interaction. Take a look at this, but make sure your fingers aren't sticky!

The Prediction @ Yahoo! Video

Now to today's Nussie Hunter. As you know I'm a rather big Entourage fan (Shouts to Drama!) and this season has been about Turtle and his girl Jamie Lynn Sigler, who plays "herself" on the show. I haven't watched this week's episode just yet, but will do so tomorrow along with my other fave show How I Met Your Mother.
But back to the Nussie Hunter. He's a fan of Vinny Chase and the boys, too. So today we deliver, Tony Saprano's little girl. Enjoy!

So T.J. Hows-ya-momma wanted to come to Chicago?

First off, I'd like to apologize for just one blog all week (one goddamn blog!). Things have been a bit crazy as I've been at either a Brewers game or covering a high school sporting even each night since Sunday.

Now that that's out of the way, it's time to focus on what I want to talk about on this rare Saturday edition of "The Way." Yeah, don't get used to it!
As the photo above would lead you to believe, I want to talk about T.J. "Whosyamamma" or whatever the hell his name is. It came out this week, the former Bengals WR wanted to come to Chicago and when the Bears passed and allowed him to go to Seattle, he circled this game on the calendar.
Here's the story and quotes from the conference call with Bears GM Jerry Angelo's comments. Of course, the fine folks at the Tribune have to ask Lance Briggs and Charles Tillman what they thinks of the comments and Peanut showed what his coach has taught him, by not starting a war of words. A move, I'm a fan of. Let's allow the play on the field to even the score. Hey No. 84, beware of where No. 55 is when you come across the middle. Lance Briggs will be ready to light you up! Child please!

While I'm on the topic of the NFL, I'd like to take this time to link to my weekend picks.
Here are my NFL picks on ESPN.com (Invite me to your group if you want).
Here are my College Pick 'em choices on the Worldwide Leader's page, as well.



Now to the reason I haven't been blogging all week. The Brewers final homestand of the season is a 10-gamer and when it is all said and done Sunday, I will have hit six of them. Yeah, I'm True Blue Brew Crew while the fair weather fans have jumped ship. Sunday afternoon the 3,000,000th fan will come through the turn styles at the Cathedral for the second straight year. It's an accomplishment for this franchise and this city. Something that, despite the team's record, is important and could set things up for next year.
Plus, these guys need the support. It's so depressing to see the park partially empty on a weekend. I mean, do we want to end up like Pittsburgh or Miami where just 10,000 fans show up? Oh yeah, we were that way once. Let's not go back to that. I know it's a football Sunday tomorrow, but hey, it's the final Brewers game of the season, show your support! Post game at TGI Friday's in Brookfield? Oh yes!

Now to some fun stuff I found throughout the week that need a mention here before I had back to Miller Park for the weekend push.
This one is a tough one to decide whether it is real or fake. Watch this version, then the one from the other angle and decide for yourself. Damn good either way!



This next one is a tribute to a wrestling legend. Not sure if this is good for him or just awesomely bad. But still cool! WOOOOOOOOOO!



We've reach the portion of the show known as the Nussie Hunter. Had a bit of a struggle with this today because I didn't want to repeat a girl unless it absolutely warranted it. And considering I dedicated an entire blog to my dream woman a short while ago, I had to find good reason to give her mention again. Well, Megan Fox is hosting SNL tonight (set your DVRs accordingly) so I feel it warrants her another mention on "The Way." Not a fan of horror movies, but she does have a new movie out (please send my check to...). I like gorgeous girls as much as the next guy, but a funny girl, too? Yep, that might be perfection! Be sure to check it. Some band named U2 is also playing. Whoever they are!

Kid Sister Kelly takes over Wilber's Way

First off, I'd like to apologize for no blog yesterday. Got a little busy with going to the Brewers v. Cubs game (which was a disaster for the Crew, but whatever).
Today's blog though is in the hands of my now 14-year-old sister who I took to her first Brewers game Sunday afternoon.
It took a bit of work to get her to Milwaukee as I had to go pick her up Saturday night. An even bigger challenge was making sure she didn't know she was going to the game. It was her first trip to the Cathedral and I wanted it to be a surprise, so everyone came through with the secret keeping (hat tip!).
We made it into the ballpark quite a bit before the game started and got our Doug Melvin bobble and headed down to the Associated Bank Kid Zone. She was not too high on running agains the sausages or going down Bernie's slide, but we still saw the sights of the are and got some pictures with the racing sausages.



After hanging out in the Kid Zone, I unleashed my first surprise at the Stadium, which was a stop at Field Level Guest relations where she got a tote bag that had a Bernie Brewers bobblehead doll (so jealous!) and a "Happy Birthday!" Brewers baseball.
Then we took a lap around the stadium and got to see the Cathedral from all angles. She was loving it and was looking everywhere and asking all kinds of questions, just soaking it all in. This is what it's all about.



After completing a full trip around the stadium, we headed upstairs and started heading to our seats. Of course, we had to fill our food bag. She went with jumbo pretzel with cheese and I hit up old reliable brats.
This may have been the only time all day she wasn't smiling as she was working on scarfing down that pretzel. She went through almost all of it and just in time for the game to get started.
As the game got started (Roof Status: Open, BTW!) the Brewers welcomed her with two first-inning home runs, including one by Corey Hart and another by Prince Fielder. In her first inning the Brewers were up 3-0. Yep, it was a good start!



Things stayed that way through the third inning, which came after my final surprise of the day. As part of the package that included the bobble, bag and ball, her name was put in the birthday list on the scoreboard. Again, smiles all around.
The game settle down the rest of the way as the Crew won 6-0. As a baseball guy, I was happy to see her enjoy her day. It dragged on a bit at times, but she hung with it and for at 14 year old, that is a good sign. Plus, it's all about the kids anyhow. It was the truest form of happiness if you ask me. That childhood exuberance showed and she left the Cathedral happy.

For more photos of the day, be sure to check these out!!!



As I went home, I shifted my attention to the Bears and was able to catch almost all of the second half. The good half for Bears fans as Jay Cutler was on his game at Soldier Field. We're a little after the fact since I missed yesterday, so you probably have already read and seen everything you need to on the game.
My take is this though, that was the Jay the Bears and us Bears fans expected to see from him. He was poised in the pocket and on his game when needed in the fourth quarter in leading that drive down the field that won the game. He made it happen with his feet and managed the clock to perfection. Next up is Seattle and the Bears are eying 2-1 which doesn't seem as far fetched as it did after the Packers game.

Kelly is still running the blog and I asked her which girl she would most like to see in this Nussie Hunter portion of today's post. As she dug through her iPod, she landed on Katy Perry and it was academic after that. I must say, she has good taste in pretty girls and she's only 14. So here it is. This one's for you Kelly :D

Right on the Money!

"I get money, I get, I get, I get, I get money." Oh sorry, it's blog time. I was getting ready for the big fight this weekend. Yeah, not much of a boxing guy either, but Floyd "Money" Mayweather's bravado and charisma make you watch him to see what he's going to do.
He had "retired" once already, shortly after his appearance at WrestleMania 24 in Orlando, and this fight was supposed to go down in July before he got hurt. Either way it's still on.
This is probably one of the biggest non UFC fights of the year and many will be watching to see how "Money" holds up as a fight against Manny Pacquio is likely on the horizon if he performs well and wins.
Here's what you need to know about the fight. Money has made it official that WWE Superstar Triple H will be walking him to the ring. Looking to channel some of that King of Kings energy! Great stuff.

Word is still going around about what is now being called the "Immaculate Deflection" in the Bengals/Broncos game. We'll here's another take on it. Simply Awesome!



While I'm on the topic of football, I've made my pick for the week. Take a look and let me know what you think. I'll post an update on them Monday and Tuesday after the Monday night game.

Now to today's Nussie Hunter. I'm a bit late to the party, but the 2009 Miss Hooters International Pageant was held last week and Missouri native Raechel Holtgrave came out on top. She's below, but there's plenty more pictures to make you happy and get you through the weekend. Enjoy them, here. Thank me later (after you've washed your hands!).

What in the name of Jody Effing Gerut is going on here?!?!

Don't adjust your computer, yes, I just put Jody (Fucking) Gerut as the top photo of the blog today. He must have done something great, you're asking and yes. Yes he did.
JFG hit a grand slam today that helped the Brewers earn a split with the Cubs, his lone hit of the ball game as the Crew won today, 7-4.
Not sure Gerut is famous for his bat around Milwaukee, his "stanky leg" dig into the left-handed batter's box has become his trademark, accompanied by his walk-up song's "UUUGGHH!" Yeah, he's not known for his bat.
Not that I'm changing my take on Gerut, he's hitting just over his weight at .217, and he's yet to be real consistent against the other options the team has in the outfield.
I'll also give credit to Mike Rivera, who had a two-run double. He's earning himself a spot on the roster next year as I think he'll be the catcher the team keeps over Jason Kendall.
Either way, it was a much needed win that capped a 5-2 road trip. Which Tom Haudricourt noted on Twitter was the first winning road trip since late May. It's been that bad.

Staying on baseball, I posted the story yesterday about the 3-year-old girl at the Phillies game that threw the ball back after her dad made a great catch. Well, she was on the Today Show today. Pretty good stuff. I'll just let you watch it.



On another video front, this is from the bloopers file. This guy in NYC was trying to say pluck and well, you can guess what he ended up saying. (Warning for those who don't like F bombs!)



Now to today's Nussie Hunter segment of the broadcast. I did have one idea to run Carmella DeCesare in this spot today, but when I hit up SI.com's Hot Clicks, my boy Jimmy Traina beat me to it. Even though she's the namesake for my awesome cat, Carmella, I'm going to Plan B. Hank Baskett signed today with the Indianapolis Colts, which means Kendra Wilkinson is coming to Indy. Wonder how she feels about still not being able to cheer for her Chargers. Either way, you get to enjoy her here.

Keep piling on Jay Cutler, Eesh!

It's Wednesday and there seems to be a growing need to keep critiquing and rehashing Sunday's awful showing by Jay Cutler and his alleged "so what" attitude in the post game.
First we have guys like Jim Mora, Sr. and Mike Martz going on NFL Network and saying how it's the worst thing he could have done.
He's kind of getting the Eli Manning "aww shucks" rip for shrugging things off after the loss and leaving it on the field.
I know people rip on him all the the time for his yelling and going a bit wild on the field, but in the press conference, come on.
I mean, that's where I have the problem. He needs to stay cool on the field because that's where things can go haywire. It's like my man David Haugh wrote today in the Chicago Tribune, he gets upset and tries to make up for three interceptions by forcing a throw and he's got another one. That, my friends needs to get fixed.
With the Steelers coming to town this week, going to need everything we can get out of Jay if the game is going to even be close.

Now to some good stuff of the. We'll start with this Kanye thing that just won't die. Turns out now that President Obama has a soundbite on the matter. Take a listen.



Found this one on today's SI.com Hot Clicks. And while it deals with the Patriots, we all know the words to the Cheers theme...



Now for some heartfelt goodness. If you haven't seen it yet, a dad in Philly made a great catch on a foul ball and in one motion handed to his 3-year-old daughter who delivers the ball to the section below. Since MLB doesn't allow embeding, be sure to check the video and story, here. Be sure to check tomorrow's Today Show where the family will be on with an alleged surprise waiting for them.

Now for today's Nussie Hunter and it's a girl associated with the start of the new sports season. I'm a hockey fan and have been since meeting up with my aunt and uncle when I was a kid in Dubuque. Well, Carrie Milbank is the girl of the NHL as the host of NHL TV. She also does some work with a little site called Tennis Week and covered the US Open in the last couple weeks.

Two fantasy teams, two losses in Week 1!

Well, Week 1 in the NFL is in the books and Tom Brady returned to his old magic last night. But, I'm not telling you anything you didn't already know there.

What you probably didn't know was that my two fantasy football teams, both named the Decatur Staleys if you were curious, suffered big-time losses this week. No need to panic though, there's a lot of season ahead. I ran into a buzzsaw on both counts, going against the team that scored the most points in one league and the second most in another.
Wouldn't have mattered though, as I scored the lowest total in one league against the guy that scored the most and the third lowest in the other. Yeah, not a good showing. I'll point fingers at Matt Schaub laying an egg against the Jets and Bernard Berrian did not catch a single ball from Brett Favre against the Browns as I started him over Santonio Holmes who had a great game for the Steelers Thursday night.

Take a look at my leagues.
The Milwaukee Football League and the Xtreme Football League (shouts to Vinny Mac!). For those in those leagues, here's a big howdy. Be sure to check my squad for suggestions!

Got some videos for you now on this Nick Random Tuesday. I didn't get to Kanye West yesterday because I had too much other good stuff. But fool was on the Jay Leno Show last night. Talk about Jay getting lucky with the ratings. Check goon squad's apology to Taylor Swift. Yeah, I didn't watch the show either, best to watch online!



Roger Federer played in the U.S. Open men's final yesterday. Never thought the U.S. Open would be the sight of so much controversy after Serena's outburst, but damn. Censors freaking all over the place!



A bit saddened by the loss of Patrick Swayze yesterday. I'm a big fan of this video, but it's all jumpy, so I'll just link you to that. And show you this vid of him with Hans and Frans instead!


As you know I'm a big WWE fan, despite not having actually watched it much since I moved to my current spot, but I still keep up. One of my all-time faves, Trish Stratus, did make an appearance last night and she's still got it. And as a brunette no less (I'm a sucker, what can I say?). Well, she's more famous as a blond. Can't say she's bad either way, huh?

Going from bad to worse in Week 1 for Da Bears!

Well, sorry for the late post today, but had to wait from some news I knew was coming to come across the wire.
Last night's Bears vs Packers game was one of the best games I've seen in a while and a great one to start the season with, but it left more question marks than anything. As bad as things were at times, the Bears did have a lead with just over three minutes to play in the game.

Here's three things I'm burning on from that game.
1. Have to go with Jay Cutler here. He got himself into a bit of a bind early and seemed to get caught up in the game in the first half. Three picks, really? Kyle Orton doesn't seem so bad now does he? (We'll get to him in a minute) On the plus side, he came out for the second half calm and collected and helped lead a touchdown drive and got the Bears the lead on two different occasions before, well you guessed it, he threw another pick. Things are going to have to get better. No I'm not hitting the panic button (with him) just yet. The wide receivers will come around and continue to get better which will only make Jay better.

2. The defensive line, namely Adewale Ogunleye, played outstanding. This was one thing that was going to be the keys to the season for the Bears and Rod Marinelli has shown he's worth his weight in gold. 'Wale was flying all over the field as the left end and got two sacks on Aaron Rodgers. Throw in that blitz that netted the safety and Lovie Smith showed he knows how to call a defense during the game (yes he's calling the plays this year). They helped out the secondary throughout the game with the pressure. That was until late in the game, when Nate Vasher thought he had safety help over the top and got burnt for the clinching touchdown.



3. I didn't think anything of it, when word came down, but the news today on the first place I went to begin my daily reading was not good. Yep, Brian Urlacher texted David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune "My season's over." That wrist injury that didn't seem so bad, forced surgery this morning and Urlacher will miss 16 weeks (at least). Here's the injury. I don't know if I should be stomping on the panic button or staying optimistic about the season at the minute. But something jumps out at me from 2004 when Urlacher missed seven games and the team went 0-7.
Maybe David Haugh is right when he says in his latest post on the Tribune Web site, that this injury is to the deepest position on the team and the pieces are in place all around this team to make up for it. Let's just say I hope so.
There's more injuries here, Lovie talked about today.

Be sure to chime in with some comments about the game, below!

Now to the rest of the sports weekend that was. While Jay Cutler was busy messing himself at Lambeau Field, the guy the Bears shipped away was busy creating the play of the week. And with Gus Johnson on play-by-play it got that much better. Take a look.



Saturday night, I was out and started seeing the Twitter world blow up on this whole Serena Williams thing. Good lord she went nuts. Can someone say 'Roid rage? I believe she said "I will shove this F*cking ball down your f*cking throat!"



And now to Friday when the man himself, Michael Jordan was inducted into the Naismith basketball hall of fame. Some didn't like his speech. Some, like Michael Wilbon and myself, thought it was MJ going "Unplugged" as he enters the Hall.
I'll give this little bit of info as to my take on it. That story of MJ getting cut in high school said one thing to me as a kid, if someone says you can't do something or you fail once, get up, dust yourself off and prove them wrong. Do better! That's what Michael's entire speech was and that was what he built his entire career around. It's like Back to the Future when Biff calls McFly a chicken, he can't back down. You say I'm not going to do this, you can bet your ass I'm going to prove you wrong. And damn if MJ didn't come through again and tell the haters how it was and show us the way. This is why I have you above my bed, sir. And why I'm naming my first born son after you (Just a warning!). Gotta love the fact he flew Leroy Smith to the ceremony just to prove to his coach "You screwed up, dude!" LOVE IT!

Here's part 1 of the speech. Hit up YouTube for the other three.



Now it's time for today's Nussie Hunter segment of the program. Was combing around Maxim and since I'm a fan of the Facebook and Twitter, they had a "Girls of Facebook" section. I dunno, I have this thing for Latin women. And Angela Christine is damn fine. Check for yourself!

Starting the Wilber's Way curse... NOW!

If last night's game is any indication of how this NFL season is going to go, us sports fans is in for a great season. Just leave your talk of changing the overtime rule at the door. You want the ball... STOP IT!

Now for today's festivities, that's right, today I pick the playoffs and a Super Bowl XLIV winner. Hope I don't start a "Wilber's Way Curse." We finished the previews yesterday so here's the AFC bracket, and playoffs, followed by the NFC.

AFC Playoffs (seeds in parenthesis)
Wildcard Weekend
Ravens (6) @ Chargers (3) -- Pick CHARGERS
Jaguars (5) @ Colts (4) -- Pick JAGUARS

Divisional Playoffs
Jaguars (5) @ Steelers (1) -- STEELERS
Chargers (3) @ Patriots (2) -- CHARGERS

AFC Championship
Chargers @ Steelers -- CHARGERS

NFC Playoffs (seeds in parenthesis)
Wildcard Weekend
Packers (6) @ Panthers (3) -- Pick PACKERS
Vikings (5) @ Seahawks (4) -- Pick VIKINGS

Divisional Playoffs
Vikings (5) @ Bears (2) -- BEARS
Packers (6) @ Giants (1) -- PACKERS

NFC Championship
Packers @ Bears -- BEARS



Sunday, February 7, 2010, Landshark Stadium, Miami, Florida
Bears vs. Chargers
I know what you're going to say, but hey I'm not alone in this one. The quarterback is no longer the fallback for this team. The defense will step it up for the Bears this year and they will win the North and the NFC.
On the other side, Norv Turner finally gets out of the way and LT stays healthy through a playoff run. He's spelled more by Darren Sproles, which helps. Add Phillip Rivers to the mix and this Chargers team is dangerous. With Ron Rivera leading that defense, he gets another shot at the Super Bowl.

My Pick: Chargers win. (Didn't expect that did you?) Just cue the Governator!

That's the Wilber's Way NFL Preview. Be sure to take a look back at each division to see how we got here.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East
Sept. 4: AFC North
Sept. 7: NFC South
Sept. 8: NFC West
Sept. 9: NFC East
Sept. 10: NFC North

There are some other things going on in sports this weekend, aside from NFL Kickoff Weekend. None may be bigger than the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame. The head of the class is none other than Michael Jordan. If you know me at all, you know MJ is why I am what I am today. The childhood hero and likely the namesake for my first-born son (just warning whoever the lucky lady is).
SI.com compiled this list of his greatest moments on video. Take a look. Very excellent.

With it being NFL Kickoff Weekend (I'm predicting a Bears 24-21 victory Sunday night BTW!) I was combing around Maxim.com and they have a list of Football Wags by position. The Nussie Hunter thought this would be a great chance to showcase one of his favorite girls. Peak the list and notice Jennifer Walcott. She's the wife of former Rams player and former Bears safety Adam Archuletta. GOOD GRAVY! Enjoy.

The NFC North: Wildest Division in the NFL

Yep, we have arrived at the final NFL divisional preview and I'm guessing I'm going to catch some crap for who I pick to win it. Don't worry, I've got facts to back my thoughts up. Hopefully for your argument you bring facts, too.

The NFC North is shaping up to be one of the funnest divisions to watch in the NFL this year as the quarterbacks around all four teams (even my Bears) have the ability to light up opposing defenses. Three of those teams have legit cases for a division title, but as you can already guess, I've made my decision. Let's take a look at each team.

NFC North
Chicago Bears
As you know, this is my team. Jay Cutler, Devin Hester and Matt Forte are the names you know. But it's the one's your aren't familiar with that will make the difference this year. Get to know Earl Bennett. The last pass he caught in college was from? You guessed it, Jay Cutler at Vandy. It is Bennett's second season and the first ball he catches will be No. 1 of his career, so he is essentially still a rookie, but that familiarity will help him blossom. Plus, I'm calling right now that Greg Olsen is going to be a go-to target of Cutler's and make the Pro Bowl.
Defensively, it comes down to secretary against the quarterbacks in the division. Charles Tillman is questionable for Sunday against the Packers and his health will allow Danieal Manning and Kevin Payne to stay back at their safety positions.
Most important player: As Tommie Harris goes, so goes Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. The Cover-2 is built on getting pressure with the front four and allowing the linebackers to fall back into coverage. Tommie is one of the best in the game at the three-technique position when healthy. Only problem, he hasn't been healthy for a couple years, until now. With Rod Marinelli on to coach the defensive line, he'll energize this group and Tommie will have a great year.

Detroit Lions
Will the Lions be as bad as last year? No way. New coach Jim Schwartz is trying to rebuild from the ground up. They are starting a rookie quarterback this year and will have to endure some early growing pains, but there's no way they go the whole season without a "W."
Things look managable until both the Bears and Vikings added solid QBs to their teams. Now with Cutler and Favre (who shreds the Lions) twice each, it could be trouble.
Most important player: Success on this team lies in the hands of the offensive line. Keep the rookie QB upright and give Kevin Jones some lanes to run in and they can be competitive.

Green Bay Packers
The team that had the best preseason in the league is becoming a sexy pick to go to the Super Bowl. The way Aaron Rodgers looked, 9 TD in 13 possessions, it's hard to argue with that. But it's hard to put everything behind preseason performances because you don't know how much teams are prepping, but the Packers gained a ton of confidence in what they are doing with their stellar showing.
The biggest key is their defense which under Dom Capers is now a 3-4. He's one of the best in the biz with this and has already started to make his mark.
Most important player: Not going to go with one here, but Cullen Jenkins, Johnny Jolly and B.J. Raji (Cue Howard Finkel introducing them at a combined 900 lbs) can man the middle line spot on early downs and create havoc. This will set up the other eight guys to fly all over the field.

Minnesota Vikings
The addition of Brett Favre only makes this team better. Well, at least for the first half of the season. As we learned last year, Favre will wear out in the second half after getting beaten up for eight games. Look for him to claim some sort of injury and Adrian Peterson will have to shoulder more and more of the offense.
If the Williams boys are allowed to play through their supplement issue, they can plug up any chance of a running game in the middle. This is probably the most solid team in the division from top to bottom.
Most important player: Peterson is the man her without a doubt. When he is on he can take over the game and control both sides of the ball. With a solid QB now, he should be fresher come the fourth quarter. And with only one cold weather game (Dec. 28 @ Chicago), the schedule plays in their favor.

OK, Prediction time. (Be sure to sling your crap in the comments!)
Chicago Bears 11-5 -- Defense returns to 2006 form with Marenelli and Cutler makes this offense a force.
Green Bay Packers 10-6 -- Turning those close games into wins from last year. But 3-4 shows minor hiccups in the few losses they have.
Minnesota Vikings 10-6 -- All Day and the defense make up for some Favre shortcomings later in the season.
Detroit Lions 4-12 -- Yes 12. Lions could play spoiler and the rebuilding project begins.

That's all the division. Tomorrow is my playoff predictions. Be ready. Might have some surprises for you. Be sure to go back and fill yourself in on who I picked where.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East
Sept. 4: AFC North
Sept. 7: NFC South
Sept. 8: NFC West
Sept. 9: NFC East
Sept. 10: NFC North (Today)
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks

OK. Now that I've gotten that out of the way, let's get into some fun things today. I know you're going to be watching the Steelers and Titans tonight. This commercial might make the game. A candidate for best commercial ever!



This next video is one that I found on Twitter today. It's a movement for Breast Cancer. Like it matters though. SAVE THE BOOBS!



We've reached everyone's favorite portion of the program, the Nussie Hunter. I know your girlfriend makes you watch "The Hills" and one of the reasons you don't argue is Audrina Patridge. She's on the cover of Maxim this month. There's more of what's below here. You're welcome!

Who will be the beast in the NFC East?

Alright boys and girls, just two more divisions left as the season starts tomorrow. Today we find ourselves in the NFC East. It's a tough division from top to bottom. And this could be a tough year for them with some changes that I'm not so sure change the landscape too drastically.

NFC East
Dallas Cowboys
Terrell Owens is no more in the Big D and Roy Williams is now the No. 1 receiver in Dallas. It will be interesting to see how Tony Romo responds to not having a certain No. 81 around town.
Every time I see Wade Phillips he seems like he doesn't have a clue. I know they call him a "players coach" but doesn't appear to have control over the team. Is there a happy medium there?
Most important player: Jason Witten is back as Romo's favorite target. His 81 catches last year should be consistent this year and will have to be as Williams seemed to disappear during his time with the 'Boys late last season.

New York Giants
This offensive line is one of the best in the league and has handed the keys over to Brandon Jacobs to be the No. 1 without Brandon Ward bearing down on him. Still expect to see Ahmed Bradshaw's speed sprinkled in.
With Osi Umenyiora back from his Week 1 injury last year, Justin Tuck should be able to continue his solid performance and be able to combine forces to become a great duo.
Most important player: To give Eli a go-to receiver, Steve Smith is going to have to step up. As Plex is gone and the team struggled last year. With the running game carrying so much of the burden, he'll need to step up for Eli and this offense to not be so one-dimensional.

Philadelphia Eagles
Michael Vick will do very little for this team in my eyes this season. He's here as a security blanket in case Donavon McNabb gets hurt (which he has the past few seasons).
Michael Westbrook is still great as both a runner and receiver, but even he will miss at least two games this season. After a 9-6-1 season last year and some key departures on defense last year, that would be where I'd be looking to find out if this team is going to be successful.
Most important player: Sports Illustrated points out strong safety Quintin Mikell as a guy to spotlight and it's hard to argue with that. With Brian Dawkins gone to Denver the defense has no leader and Mikell is going to have to step up and be the leader. With a schedule that is a bit more forgiving in how it is all sequenced, it could all come together at the right time for the Eagles.

Washington Redskins
Michael Haynesworth is a force and he moves to the 'Skins and is going to be a monster again this season in the middle. But, again I'll site SI, was it the right way to spend the money? The offense is the biggest question for me on this team as apart from Clinton Portis no one really scares me.
That said, they will have an opportunity and be in games if the defense presents them with short fields and turnovers, the offense will have what it needs to score points and won't need to score a lot of them.
Most important player: Jason Campbell was almost traded in the offseason, but unlike Jay Cutler he remained call and stayed in town. He showed some signs last year and will need Antwaan Randle El, Santana Moss and Chris Cooley to step up.

OK, it's prediction time
NY Giants 11-5 - Eli will come through when he's called upon
Dallas Cowboys 10-6 -- Felix Jones gets a chance to shine for the Cowboys on their big screen
Philadelphia Eagles 7-9 -- Not a shot on how bad the Eagles are, more how good those around them are.
Washington Redskins 6-10 -- Not enough faith in Campbell shows on the field

The previews are winding down as the season gets ready to start. Here's a look back
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East
Sept. 4: AFC North
Sept. 7: NFC South
Sept. 8: NFC West
Sept. 9: NFC East (Today)
Thursday, Sept. 10: NFC North
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks

While the NFC North Preview is tomorrow, I couldn't hold out on this video for another day. Found this great video from the Onion Sports Network on SI.com's Hot Click today. Very funny.


NFL Players Mentor Troubled Detroit Lions

Now we find ourselves back at the Nussie Hunter segment of the day. If you've followed Wilber's Way since our early days, you remember me promoting the two Wisconsin entrants in the Maxim Hometown Hotties contest. We'll things are down to the Finals now with just 10 left. You can check out all the lovely ladies, here. But Wilber's Way is endorsing a candidate and we're going with the amazing Leslie (even though she is listed as having a boyfriend). Enjoy!

Cardinals or Seahwawks? Bird battle is on

We are headed to the Wild Wild West where the Arizona Cardinals of all teams won the division last year and made it all the way to the Super Bowl with a great run before playing in one of the greatest Super Bowls ever.
A lot of things have changed the landscape of the division this year and I'm not so sure the Cardinals and Kurt Warner can hold to their crown. Yeah, I've got my favorite here.

NFC West
Arizona Cardinals
Coming off what could be the most improbable run since the Amazin' Mets won the World Series in 1969, the Cardinals are hoping to follow it up. They certainly have the offensive firepower with Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin.
I'm going to give Ken Wisenhunt the benefit of the doubt that the defense will be better this year with another year in his system. The schedule does go in their favor with two games against the intra-division Rams plus the Lions (in back-to-back weeks no less in December).
Most important player: Edgerin James is gone and an again quarterback's best friend is a good running game. So Tim Hightower needs to at least run enough interference for Warner to get the ball to Fitzgerald and Boldin for this team to shine and for the first time defend a division and conference title.

San Francisco 49ers
The Michael Crabtree situation is just the tip of the iceberg here. I give coach Mike Singletary every chance that he's going to point this team in the right direction, but you can only get so far on coaching. There is no quarterback and Frank Gore can only do so much with nine guys consistently in the box. They'll have a shot at winning some games because of the schedule, it's a matter of finishing them off, though.
Most important player: It will come down to the defense giving the offense short fields and a chance to be in games. This is Singletary's strength and while it improved toward the end of last year, there's nothing saying it can continue to do so into 2009.

Seattle Seahawks
Mike Holmgren is out and Jim Mora, Jr. is in. It shouldn't make much of a difference who is the head coach here. Look for a marked improvement if the emergency room can see few visits. In comes Julius Jones to lead the running game, complimented by T.J. Duckett.
I really like this defense led by Lofa Tatupu. They should be OK in bringing back the luster in Seattle.
Most important player: It all comes down to Hasselbeck. If he can stay healthy, his targets like Houshmanzadeh and Nate Burleson. It was clear last year that without him, this offense can't run. It sounds like everything is going to be good with him, so be ready for some fire here.

St. Louis Rams
Can't get worse than it did last season for the Rams. Head coach Steve Spagnuolo revamped the defense and is trying to bring back that gold shine that came with the change from simple yellow on those helmets to gold a few years ago.
Stephen Jackson and Marc Bulger are still in town, but those are the only names that ring out on this team. There are no weapons on the outside for Bulger to throw to.
Most important player: As Jackson goes, so go the Rams. The first half of the schedule is not kind to the Rams as they play Minnesota, Green Bay and Indianapolis. Should get a little better in the second half with New Orleans, but not sure how much that is going to matter.

Here we go. Prediction time:
Seattle Seahawks 10-6 - Hasselbeck stays healthy and they win the division. Easy choice.
Arizona Cardinals 9-7 - Not much of a Super Bowl hangover, but not enough to get them back in the playoffs.
San Francisco 49ers 5-11 -- No real quarterback puts this team in a pickle.
St. Louis Rams 3-13 -- One game better in the standings, but much improved overall. Schedule just too much for them to overcome.

Here's a look back at each division we've done so far.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East
Sept. 4: AFC North
Sept. 7: NFC South
Sept. 8: NFC West (Today)
Wednesday, Sept. 9: NFC East
Thursday, Sept. 10: NFC North
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks

OK, now to some "real news." Ha! Well, not so much. Saw this today in my prep for the blog. I showed you Friday, the girls of the Lingerie Football League. Well, one such girl showed a little more of herself Friday night in Chicago. Watch this video here and enjoy the pic. I'd considering buying the PPV if I knew this was going to happen more often. Ha.



No that's not the Nussie Hunter pic of the day. Got a better one for you. This one is a WAG that you all will enjoy. It's a hat tip to "The Captain" for getting with another lady. I'm talking about Minka Kelly, the new lady of Derek Jeter. Who as Covino and Rich discussed is probably a better "playa" than a player for the Yanks. She was the topic of this NY Times story today which asks "Minka Who?" but if you're a fan of "Friday Night Lights" you already know her. I'm just helping the introduction process.

Matt Ryan or Jake Delhomme: A Shootout

I'm into the NFC this week in my division by division preview of the NFL leading up to this week's opening week of the season. We land at the NFC South today.

Last year the Carolina Panthers earned the No. 1 seed before getting embarrassed by the Arizona Cardinals in the Divisional playoffs. Yeah, Jake Delhomme played the worst game of his life and the Cards went on to the Super Bowl.
This year the division has a smarter Matt Ryan in Atlanta and Drew Brees looking to destroy more teams with his arm, along with Delhomme to make this a great division to watch.

NFC South
Atlanta Falcons
The rookie of the year was an easy choice last year with the way Matt Ryan stepped in and took the Atlanta Falcons to playoffs. The guy played beyond his years. Give him a year and an offseason to study and the rest of the league should be put on notice. With Michael Turner in the backfield, not to mention the addition of some offensive weapons, namely Tony Gonzalez at tight end, and this could be an even better year for the Falcons offense.
Most important player: In a division where offenses are prolific, the defense is the key. If the offense shoots par, then guys like middle linebacker Curtis Lofton and defensive end John Abraham will be the ones coach Mike Smith turns to slam the door on some wins.

Carolina Panthers
The season ended miserably for the Panthers last season. I read the preview in SI this week and the way Delhomme handled his performance, on his birthday no less, was commendable. I give props to him for that because he could have lashed out.
The guy worked his tail off and has moved on from it and should be back. John Fox is a great coach and always makes a winner. I see this team being back in the mix this year.
Most important player: DeAngelo Williams is primed for a great year and what better way to take the pressure off Delhomme than to have him hand off to Williams. He's in a platoon with Jonathan Stewart, but Williams is the one who scores the TDs - he had 20 last year.

New Orleans Saints
Drew Brees lit the NFL on fire last season and fell just short of the yardage record in a season set by Dan Marino. That would have been great if the team could actually win games. They lost five games by a field goal or less and had a defense that couldn't catch a cold.
Well, not much has been done to address the defense so we'll see what happens there this year.
Most important player: Now is the time for Reggie Bush to come into his own. Heck, the guy has Kim Kardashian and now can take her to Miami for the Pro Bowl this year. Look for him to be a monster in the backfield this year if he stays healthy and take some of the slack from Drew.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Well, a lot has changed for the Bucs this season. Chucky is now in the ESPN Monday Night football booth and there are a ton of new faces on this team. Namely at quarterback where Byron Leftwich is primed to be the starter.
The running game is solid with Derrick Ward set to be the feature back with the Cadilliac in the garage, but I'm not so sure there is much else around him.
Most important player: The defense will have to carry the load and score some points. With some players left behind from the Gruden and even Tony Dungy days, they will have to rely on that and Ronde Barbe is the guy to lead the charge. He needs to have a huge season.

Prediction time:
Carolina Panthers 11-5 -- Another Division title for the Panthers
Atlanta Falcons 10-6 -- A great finish. We'll have to see how things fall in the rest of the league.
New Orleans Saints 8-8 -- Another .500 season where defense is again the culprit
Tampa Bay Buccanneers 2-14 -- Battling the Browns and Lions for the No. 1 pick in the draft

Here's a look back at each division we've done so far.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East
Sept. 4: AFC North
Sept. 7: NFC South (Today)
Tuesday, Sept. 8: NFC West
Wednesday, Sept. 9: NFC East
Thursday, Sept. 10: NFC North
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks



Now to other sports news... I just finished a weekend in Milwauke in which I saw three Brewers games (Shouts to those running Hotel Brandy and Hotel Jenni and Maria, not to mention El Rog for his accomodations and all those I ran into during the three-day event) Only saw one win during those three, but it was a darn good one.
It included that celebration above, which is getting some play in the national media from the Giants and Cardinals. Miller Park was still buzzing today about that and so was the news wire from the team that left town and the one that got into town.
It was the topic of the Journal-Sentinel's Tom Haudricourt's blog post today. Appears Macha didn't know what was up, but all of the players did.
The term acting professional is a bit funny used in there, as the Brewers were just having fun, as led by their true leader, Prince.
Funny thing, too, is that the Cardinals also were saying some things on the issue. But the Saturday night the supposed "God of all things baseball etiquitte" Albert Pujols pretty much walked all the way to first base after hitting a pinch-hit home run against the Pirates. Take a look, here.
My take is this, just as one of the guys I follow I Twitter said, When did baseball stop being about fun? Heck, it's a game-ending (walk-off if you must) home run. Let the guys enjoy it. It's not as bad as some of the other things I see going on (Note Pujols praising the skies above like he did today at Miller Park).

Now on to the Nussie Hunter portion of the program. I advertised the Maxim Hometown Hotties search a while back and now I'm going to get on board with the Girls of Spike search. They are going to name "The Ultimate Spike Girl" on Oct. 1 with voting going all of September. Be sure to check out their site for all 50 girls. Here's CC Fontana, who just happens to be my favorite. I think she was on some Janice Dickinson modeling show a few years back and she was hot then. Take a look now. Damn!

Can the Super Bowl Champs do it again?

As Santonio Holmes pulled down that catch above, it made the Steelers the winningest franchise in pro sports and with many of the same pieces back and a coach that just seems to get it done, is there any reason to doubt they'll be in position to do it again? Let's find out. This is a top-heavy division with two good teams and a couple stinkers that just don't get it.

AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
With Joe Flacco the Ravens seem to have found the quarterback that won't stand in the way of the defense winning games. He's not flashy, but he just gets the job done.
A key loss in the offseason was Rex Ryan who pulled Bart Scott with him to the Jets. I'm still thinking they have enough pieces on that defense and another guy will just seem to step in and contribute.
Now the quesiton of whether Willis McGahee can stay healthy and help this team will have to be answered this season.
Most important player: Derick Mason was Flacco's favorite receiver last year. He thought about retired, but arrived at camp (healthy) and ready to contribute. Could be a force with Joe in his second season. Might help the defense out for once.

Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals will be better this season as Carson Palmer is back to full strength and Chad (Johnson) Ochocinco is the only show in town at wide receiver with Chad "Howsyamamma" leaving for Seattle.
But ever since Carson's first big year where he led the team to the division title, something seems to come up that makes this team stumble. I don't know what it is, but I have a feeling something will trip this team up in a couple of games this year and keep them from being more than average.
This defense could be something of a sleeper this year with a lot of young guys, but that again would involve something resembling confidence in this team and as much as they've tried, they just can't shake their loser mentality.
Most important player: Chris Henry is done with all of his legal issues and will have to step up to be the No. 2 receiver he can be to Chad. Heck, he has the potential to be a No. 1 in terms of numbers while Ochocinco gets all the attention.

Cleveland Browns
OK, a Bill Bellichek deciple at coach and Patriots cast off at coach were let go, so lets bring in a former Belechek assistant (Eric Mangini) and a new GM with Pats ties (George Kokinis). The two actually roomed together back in the day, which was not a Sunday btw.
I see nothing on this team that yields multiple wins. Brady Quinn is not ready (part of which could be lack of weapons) and Jamal Lewis is on the way down.
Plus with a defense that can't compete with the offenses in ths division and the NFC North and AFC West which they draw this year, things could get out of hand.
Most important player: Jamal Lewis needs to have an amazing season to make things bright in Cleveland. Not so sure he's got any help.

Pittsburgh Steelers
There is no flash in Steel City. I finished my fantasy draft and no Steelers other than their defense was anywhere near the top of the list at any position. That doesn't much matter. Big Ben just gets it done and with a defense like Mike Tomlin has in place, that's just enough to get the Ws.
Even when you doubt this team, they seem to answer the bell. Ben has weapons to throw to. The key is just to keep him upright which the O-line needs to do a better job of.
Most important player: If Willy Parker can stay healthy throughout the year, this team will be very dangerous. And even if he doesn't make it through the regular season, if he's around for the playoffs, the AFC could run through the Big Ketchup Bottle.

OK, prediction time
Steelers 13-3 -- Everything comes together and the Steelers get the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. Might have ring No. 7 on the way.
Ravens 11-5 -- A great year for Flacco on the way and Ray Ray has is boys in as a Wild Card.
Bengals 7-9 -- When losing is in your bloodline, it's a hard thing to shake
Browns 2-14 -- With the first pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns select... (Tim Tebow?)

OK, Now that the AFC is done. Let's recap a bit, the playoff seeds. You have to wait until next Friday for the playoff predictions, but play with this for a bit.
AFC Playoffs
1. Steelers
2. Patriots
3. Chargers
4. Colts
5. Jaguars
6. Ravens

Here's a look back at each division we've done so far.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East
Sept. 4: AFC North (Today)
Monday, Sept. 7: NFC South
Tuesday, Sept. 8: NFC West
Wednesday, Sept. 9: NFC East
Thursday, Sept. 10: NFC North
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks




The Bears closed their preseason Thursday and much like Jay Cutler shown above, I couldn't much care. Just fill me in on who played well and who's getting cut and I'm OK. Just don't let anyone important get hurt. Uh oh, someone did? SHIT!

I'm pretty late tonight, so here's something to make up for it. Saw this video on my lunch break at Station 33 in the WB. Might be the funniest looking product I've seen in awhile. Why the hell would I buy this? Tell me you can't do this just by losing weight.



OK, now time for the Nussie Hunter. Did some searching today and the Lingerie Football League is getting set to debut in a couple weeks. Found this on Co-Ed Magazine where they list the Top 50 girls of the LFL to follow on Twitter. One of the hotties is Lindsey Svetis who will play for the Denver Dream. Amazing abs and ass!

Brady returns and do the Patriots rise too?!?!

Day 3 of the Wilber's Way NFL Preview celebration finds us with a preview of the AFC East. The Dolphins capped the biggest turnaround in NFL history last year with an 11-5 season and the AFC title. That was all paved, though by a Tom Brady injury seven minutes into the season. We'll see how the 2009 season goes. Let's break it down.

AFC East
Buffalo Bills
One of the best receivers in NFL history comes to Buffalo this year and that seems to have raised the expectations. As much as I love his show on VH1, I'm not sold on how much he'll pay off for the Bills. They do have Wisconsin alum Lee Evans on the other side which should create for both of them, but how much does that help the rest of the team?
There are questions at QB and at RB and the defense is middle of the road, especially against the talent in this division.
Most important player: Not just one player here, this one goes to the running back duo of Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson. If these guys can have big years, they take pressure off Trent Edwards and the defense to come through with huge plays on the regular.

Miami Dolphins
Bill Parcells turned this team around in just one year and that's amazing. No one gave Chad Pennington a chance and he turned out to be very servicable with the 'Phins. They created the "Wildcat" defense which led to a division title and has been copied by every team in the league.
The defense should be solid again with the return of Jason Taylor to what was a great squad last year.
Most important player: Another running back duo and for this team it makes all the sense. With Ted Ginn, Jr. and newcomer Davone Bess on the outside, Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams in the Wildcat and in the conventional running game decide what this offense does. If teams figure out like Baltimore did to just "Blitz the formation," things could get messy again.

New England Patriots
As I said in the open, Tom Brady is back and the Patriots (and almost every NFL pundit) is banking on him to return them to the promised land. Now I'm not saying it won't be good for them to have him back, but I'm not sure Super Bowl is in the future of this team.
The defense is aging and there will be about five different guys sharing carries in the backfield. Not sure how that will pan out.
Most important player: No doubt it is Brady. I mean that last full season he had, he and Randy Moss set passing records not seen before. He's healthy for the entire season (he's already banged up again) and the sky is the limit for this team.

New York Jets
The J-E-T-S don't seem to have a C-L-U-E about what they are doing with their team. They have given the keys to the offense to rookie Mark Sanchez and are letting Leon Washington hold out for more cash. I'll keep it to Sanchez here. It might be what has to be done, but Rex Ryan is banking on him being another Joe Flacco like he saw in Baltimore. I'm not saying it will be a complete failure, but playoffs likely won't be in their future.
Most important player: Washington is a no-brainer here. Thomas Jones is getting older and Washington is just more explosive. Dude can do it all with the ball in his hands and they don't see it enough to get it to him.

OK, prediction time folks:
New England Patriots 12-4 -- Brady gets their division title back, but not a bye in the playoffs
Miami Dolphins 8-8 -- Not that they got worse, I just think everyone around them got better
New York Jets 7-9 -- Sanchez and Washington getting that many wins is an accomplishment
Buffalo Bills 6-10 -- Not sure T.O will be happy, but he's got no help around him other than Evans

This is Day 3. Here's the full preview schedule with links to past previews.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West
Sept. 3: AFC East (Today)
Friday, Sept. 4: AFC North
Monday, Sept. 7: NFC South
Tuesday, Sept. 8: NFC West
Wednesday, Sept. 9: NFC East
Thursday, Sept. 10: NFC North
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks

While I'm still on football, I found this today on a great blog I found, Jay Cutler Superstar. I couldn't watch the whole thing, because this guy is an idot, but give it a look.



Now for some baseball. And the Brewers have just been awful of late. The bright spot in it all has been the one and only Casey "Tits" McGehee. The kid has been carrying the team lately and is beoming the most valuable player not named Ryan or Prince.



The man has just been on a tear of late and today added another 3 RBI game to his resume. The stats are going in his favor over his last 11 games where he has two hits in five of them.

OK, now on to the Nussie Hunter. Seems like an obvious choice that since Mr. Brady was at the top of today's post, his better half, Giselle is on the bottom (cue Beavis). Yep. For no other reason than her looks is she in today's post. Enjoy!

Will anyone challenge the Chargers?

We're back with Day 2 of my NFL season preview (I'm making this a two-week celebration leading into the best season in sports). On today's docket is the AFC West.
The Chargers beat out a Denver team last year for the title, beating them in the final game of the season to win the tie-break as both had 8-8 records. Things should be a little better this season (at least for the Chargers).

AFC West
Denver Broncos
This is going to be a team in decline this year. I love Kyle Orton, but I'm not sure Josh McDaniels' arrival in Denver is one that fans there want to live with from here forward. Brandon Marshall is being a baby and is trying to get traded (word today said the Jets called) and the offense might not be able to get much going if he leaves.
The defense is where the change needs to come though. Last year, Jay Cutler set a team record with over 4,500 yards because the defense couldn't stop a five-year-old from scoring on them. Mike Nolan is on to correct that and with Champ Bailey in place and the arrival of Brian Dawkins signed during the offseason should stop teams from throwing up over and through this defense.
Most important player: While all the attention here is on the loss of Cutler, the defense needs to step up. If they don't stop anyone, it won't matter if Kyle Orton or Joe Montana is heaving the ball around the field.

Kansas City Chiefs
Another team with a new coach, new GM and new QB that will surely improve on it's 2-14 season last year, right? Well. Not so fast. Matt Cassel is already having injury issues. With Larry Johnson in decline, the finger has to go to the offensive line there. It gets overlooked, but with two guns like that you need someone to protect them.
New GM Scott Paoli will have to get them in place for this team to make the $60+ milllion bones they gave Cassell in the offseason.
Most important player: It's Cassell here. He's got his system in place to keep him comfortable. I mean the guy started last year for the first time since high school. If only he can make some of the guys around him on offense better. We shall see.

Oakland Raiders
When Tom Cable is breaking his assistant coach's jaw, this team has come through with some weapons at the skill positions. Not sure how well they can work together though. What I'm trying to say is, I can't get over Al Davis drafting Darrius Hayward-Bey over Michael Crabtree.
I know H-B is fast as hell, but Crabtree is a monster that can just go get the football. And you also better believe Davis is going to tell Cable to give QB JeMarcus Russell every chance to start even though Jeff Garcia is waiting on the bench. If the idea is to just win, Garcia migh just see the field after all.
Most important play: Darren McFadden is primed to start in the backfield for this team and could be a force out as a receiver and a running threat. His ability to break the game open could keep Russell in the game and might be what the team needs to win five games for the first time since they went to the Super Bowl in 2004.

San Diego Chargers
Philip Rivers got paid big time this offseason and he deserved it. He's come into his own as a signal caller and this could be the season he really breaks out. LaDanian Tomlinson isn't really as down as most people think, but he can't carry the team like he used to. That's where Chris Chambers and Antonio Gates will need to step up. If LT comes through with good, not great numbers, this team can fly.
Most important player: Shawne Merriman is back from knee surgery and should make this defense one of the best in the game again. That is all the offense and Rivers needs to be successful this season. Now if Norv Turner can just get out of the way.

Here we go. Prediction time:
Chargers 12-4 -- LT adds just enough to get this team a bye in the playoffs
Broncos 5-11 -- Rethinking that McDaniels hire yet?
Chiefs 4-12-- Not enough around Cassell to make this season pop
Raiders 3-13 -- The trainwreck continues. Al Davis just needs to die.

This was Day 2 of my previews. Here's the schedule for the rest of them.
Sept. 1: AFC South
Sept 2: AFC West (Today)
Thursday, Sept. 3: AFC East
Friday, Sept. 4: AFC North
Monday, Sept. 7: NFC South
Tuesday, Sept. 8: NFC West
Wednesday, Sept. 9: NFC East
Thursday, Sept. 10: NFC North
Friday, Sept. 11: Playoffs and Super Bowl XLIV picks

While I'm on the topic of NFL previews. I like reading Peter King and SI.com and he released his today. He's got the Bears going to the Super Bowl to play the Patriots. Not sure I like the bullseye, but whatever. Check it out, plus scouting reports on each team, here.

On a non football note today. David Wright got plunked in the head a couple weeks ago and is back with the new helmet that will become mandatory across the minor leagues next year.



Take a look at this post on the helmet here. Love the headline. I'd have to agree with that. I'm sure safety is paramount, but can they make these guys not look like "Dark Helmet" from Spaceballs in these things. Wow. Can't say I can see many wearing that who are not already Major Leaguers in the near future.

It's now time for the Nussie Hunter and while summer is coming to an end, it's time to get some last bits of fun in before fall hits. That's where today's girl, one of my faves, Marissa Miller, comes in. She's amazing in the SI Swimsuit issue a couple years ago and is on my Harley-Davidson Calendar.