What to think of the 2010 Monsters of the Midway

At noon Sunday the Chicago Bears start another season and this may be the first time in a long time my expectations for the season are low.
Does an 0-4 preseason give fans anything to get excited about? Well, not really. Aside from Matt Forte's 89-yard touchdown run against the Raiders in Week 2 of the preseason.
Everything from Jay Cutler's production with the offense, to the offensive line in pass protection, there are a lot of things I don't think this team can do.
Is that to say they won't get it fixed through the year? Maybe, but with an offseason and preseason games to work on things, you'd think they'd have things under control by now.
On the defensive side of the ball Julius Peppers has been everywhere on the field and Brian Urlacher (when he has not been nursing a calf strain) has been a welcome re-addition to this unit. There are still question marks at cornerback with Nathan Vasher shipped out of town and Zachary Bowman taking over. Also, at safety where the coaching staff cannot seem to figure out if Daniel Manning and the re-acquired Chris Harris belong at the spot.
So, ,you're probably thinking, do I think the Bears are going to do this year? Well, the folks that have this team winning three games this season are mistaken. They are better than that if they just let Jay make the calls for himself and just wing it at the line. If you saw my NFL preview the other night, you saw I didn't have them in the playoffs and that is right. The Vikings and the Packers are too good within the division for the Bears to make it into the postseason.
The schedule this year is pretty tough and I'm thinking this team could have another 7-9 or 8-8 year in them. It's not awful, but it's not great either and I'm going to say it now, Lovie Smith should not be back next season.
The only way things turn is if things start to click offensively and Cutler and Martz figure out the offense and everyone gets rolling. In order to do that, the offensive line is going to have to play out of their minds and Mike Tice will have worked wonders because even the supposed best of the bunch in Chris Williams has looked terrible at points during the preseason.


Alright, let's turn our attention to the near future and Sunday's game against the Lions, shall we? The Lions have lost 20 at home and in two games the Bears scored 47 points against Detroit last year.
With the Bears playing at home, I'm going to give them the edge in this game to get things established with Matt Forte and Chester Taylor early. Whether that is with straight runs or with short throws from Cutler is up to Mike Martz, but I see it happening.
To me, that is the key in the offense. If a line can run block, they can protect the QB and if they can push bodies around when the guys are running down hill, they will be able to get the confidence needed to protect Jay and maybe even let him make some strikes downfield.
The news today is that Lance Briggs and Desmond Clark are "probable" to play and both should be welcomed on the field. Briggs, moreso, clearly for his importance on the weakside next to Brian Urlacher and Pisa Tinoasumoa on the strong side.
The key for the defense is simple, get off the field on third down. If Julius Peppers can get some pressure on the Matt Stafford or bring enough attention to himself that Tommie Harris and Marc Anderson can get pressure, the Cover-2 will be able to shine.
Prediction: Bears 24, Lions 20


OK, folks, time for a talk with the Nussie Hunter. He made a trip Down Under and brought back with him shots of Miranda Kerr set to appear in Victoria's Secret. I'll say it's not a secret anymore, hun. Here she is. And here are more shots of her!

Are you ready for some football?! The time is here!

The time is nearing. Thursday night the NFL season finally kicks off and I must say as much as I love the Brewers it's time to move on to my other favorite team. You know, the one who's stadium shares the Wilber's Way flag with Miller Park, the Chicago Bears and the NFL.
So why, you are probably asking, is there a picture of Aaron Rodgers on the top of the page? Well, that one is easy, my friends, I'm a smart fan and am willing to realize that Rodgers and the Packers might be the team to beat in all the land. It will come down to the Packers defense in Year 2 under Dom Capers in the 3-4 defense and how well the guys around Rodgers step up. I'm going to cut right to the chase and make my division-by-division picks. Yes this is debatable, so please comment below and let's get the chatter going.

NFC North
Packers: The Green and Gold will beat out Brett Favre who will be without key parts for half the season. That might be enough for the Packers to get out front and beat the Vikings in their trip to Lambeau this season.
NFC South 
Saints: The defending champs will have to fend off the Falcons to win the division, but should get it done with Drew Brees leading the way.
NFC East
Cowboys: This might not be a popular pick with the followers of the way, but Tony Romo and his supporting cast is good enough to beat out the Shanahan-led Redskins for the division.
NFC West
49ers: This one is pretty much by default, but the Niners will have a lot of teams outside of the division fits this year. The key is coach Mike Singletary bringing Michael Crabtree, Vernon Davis, Frank Gore and Alex Smith together. That should be a potent quartet and all they need to do is get on the right page and stay healthy.

Wild Cards
Vikings: Favre will get this team back to the playoffs.
Redskins: Mike Shanahan and Donovan McNabb are too good to not get this team into the playoffs in their first year on the job with the weapons of Chris Cooley and Clinton Portis.


Before we get into the AFC, I have to talk about Joe Flacco. He might be the player with the most pressure on him in the entire league the season. Don't think so. Here's what I'm thinking. Yes, Ray Rice and Willis McGahee are in the backfield to ease the pressure, but for the first time in his NFL career, Flacco has guys to throw to on the outside in the traded for Anquan Boldin and the just signed T.J. Houshmanzadah (I'm allowed to spell that wrong). Add to the mix and aging defense and the offense will need to score more points to keep the wins coming. The one thing about him that leads me to think he will step up to the challenge is that winning is all he knows. The guy is the hero of Delaware. Name me one person that amounted to anything from there not a politician and I'd be surprised. OK, back to the Division picks.

AFC North
Ravens: The defense is aging, but can still make the big plays when needed and that could be the difference.

AFC South
Colts: The Texans are going to be in the hunt, but Peyton is too good to let the Colts sink. The only thing Indy might lose could be the consecutive seasons with 12-wins one that has made them the model of consistency.

AFC East
Patriots: Randy Moss and Tom Brady are in contract years. I'm not sure Brady will throw 50 TDs and Moss catch 25 like they did a couple years ago, but they might come close in proving how much they mean to their team.


AFC West
Chargers: Philip Rivers has had LT to look to turn to in each of his season until now. We'll see what he's made of on his own now. Let's be honest, there really isn't anyone else in the division who will put up a fight.

Wild Cards
Dolphins: Brandon Marshall's arrival means the 'phins have a playmaker on the outside. If they can work that i with the Wildcat, their offense should start carrying their part of the bargain.
Texans: I'm going to be honest, I originally had the Steelers in this spot, but Pittsburgh is nothing without Big Ben and him missing the first four games is going to take until Week 6 to shake off.
I'm saying Matt Schaub and the crew in Houston finally gets over the hump and into the playoffs.

Playoffs
NFC Wild Card
Cowboys over Redskins
Vikings over 49ers
AFC Wild Card
Patriots over Texans
Dolphins over Chargers

NFC Divisional Playoffs
Vikings over Saints
Packers over Cowboys
AFC Divisional Playoffs
Colts over Dolphins
Ravens over Patriots

NFC Championship
Packers over Vikings
AFC Championshp
Ravens over Colts

Super Bowl
Packers over Ravens
Yes, I just picked the Packers to win the Super Bowl. Now they will win just six games this season because hells is close to freezing and they need to balance the world. Or, everything will come together and they will show why I just took a chance on them.

Coming up: With a game Thursday, I'm going to make a quick post tomorrow night to continue something I started last year with posting my picks, by doing the same this year.
Friday or Saturday: My Bears season preview will come one of those two days depending on when I get to it and if I have game prep to do for that other Web site I write for.

Had enough NFL talk for the night. It's time to check out the woman Jason Kidd calls his own and the woman who is the Playboy Playmate of the Year. Yes there is hope. More specifically, Hope Dworaczyk. Want more? Here ya go!

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.

Playoffs in August?

Hold on. Let me go check my calendar. I knew it was cold, but I didn't think it was... Wait, it's still August. I knew it. So this is still preseason?
Yep, last night was perhaps the loudest and craziest preseason game EVER. Yeah, I said it. Some I know don't like Peter King of Sports Illustrated, but he's been covering the sport for 25 years and he called it the wildest preseason game he's seen in his years working the sport.
As King said in that story I just linked to, Jay looked great in that game. Sure it's preseason, you can take a little bit from this one. What the Bears are taking out of this one is Jay's ability to lead the offense 98 yards to close the first half. Had it been in any other stadium without any of the pressure and intensity it would not have mattered, but with the atmosphere of a December showdown, Cutler's ability shined and may be starting to stick with this Bears offense.
The 15 of 21 for 144 yards and a touchdown to Matt Forte (which capped the aforementioned drive) which led to a 106.1 passer rating (safe to say the decibel level was higher) only tells part of the story. Take a look at this.
This one wasn't just about Cutler though. It was the third preseason game, which as any knowledgable NFL fan knows is the most important of the preseason, and the rest of the team shined, too. The defense gave up three early points, but after that, clamped down and put pressure on former mate Kyle Orton. The key to that was Tommie Harris, who looks to be healthy, which will be a key for the sesaon. One guy that doesn't know if he'll be ready for Green Bay is Charles Tillman. Not so sure this is what I wanted to hear.
Then there's the special teams. Robbie Gould and Brad Maynard were their normal selves, but it was the return of Mr. Anytime, Devin Hester that was the biggest news. His 54-yard return set up the first Bears TD of the game (a Forte leap). It was the first game he had returned punts and may have earned his job back.
Finally, here's a look at some Bears who hurt themselves and helped themselves as some cuts came down today.

To keep on an NFL tip, I'm going to break down each division of the league over the next two weeks in each day and cap it off by picking the playoffs and Super Bowl winners. With each one, I want to hear your thoughts. Note I saved the NFC North for last. That will give me time to read as much as I can to try to get my bias out of the way because right now I could make a case for the Bears, Packers and Vikings.
Here's the sched:
Tuesday, Sept. 1: AFC South
Wednesday, Sept 2: AFC West
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 pics

Heard this today on the Covino and Rich Show. Rachel Ray can bake me a dish anytime. She's something special.



Continueing the Covino and Rich tip to day, the Nussie Hunter has it on good word this next girl is going to grace the cover of Maxim next month. Miss Aubrey O'Day be some piece of work. Who knew she was best friends with Jenna Jameson? And she's a porno freak? Whoa!
Take this!

(Edit: This is the third time I've updated the photo. The fine folks at Photobucket keep saying it violates their terms of use. But the same guy that has it when I search there still has it.)