Goodbye 2006 A Year of Firsts

In but a few hours, 2006 will officially be over. For some, this will be a relief, for others perhaps a time to mourn and others still will be wistful. It is natural when times come to an end to become reflective over all that we have gained and all that we have lost. Look at every awards show; they always have some sort of retrospective on the previous year. Right now, every TV show is, and has been running, some sort of look back on 2006. Be it the year in sports, entertainment, world politics, music or general happenings, somewhere you can find a review and remembrance of the previous 12 months. Each piece is carefully crafted to bring a mix of emotions, from a happy moment or something that brings a smile to our faces that we forgot, to moments of sadness and loss that we may still be coping with. Everyone likes these shows, I myself am a fan too. It is like a nice summary of events important to us, no matter the subject. A nice piece of closure for us to hold onto while we prepare for the new year in front of us, wondering what it may bring with it as that ball drops and heralds in the new year, a new slate with new challenges, joys and sorrows.

Like many of us, I too have been thinking of the past year as the new one approaches, thinking of all the things that have changed in my life and all of the things I have had the luck and opportunity to try and do. Like many, I find myself looking back at the end of each year, thinking of all the changes in my life over the previous 12 months, how they have shaped me and how they add to the experiences of previous years to make me who I am. I tend to also think of how far I have come and who I have become, all of the changes that have happened to me in my life to bring me to this point, and of all the changes, opportunities and experiences to come in the future. I tend to find that each year as my opportunities and experiences expand, there is a list of things I have done or have been a part of for the first time. Each item on the list adds a new piece to who I am and who I will be. Some years, I tend to do very little and things of very little consequence, or maybe just one or two things of consequence, like the year I moved to California. A few times, I find that I have done, seen or experienced a myriad of things that have delighted, enthralled or expanded who I am in ways I never even dreamed possible.

I made a pact with myself years ago to help me overcome my introverted nature. I promised myself to never pass up an opportunity to experience something, be it good, bad, joyous, exhilarating, scary or even just something new or different in my life. I tend to be apprehensive to new experiences, fearful of the unknown, but knowing if I skip them, I am potentially missing out on an exhilarating experience, or at the least a hilarious story of good times gone bad. A few times in the past, I have allowed this introverted, fearful nature to cause me to miss things that I have regretted ever since. Not many, but enough to make me say, I never want to miss another chance or opportunity again. Personally, I do not want to leave this existence without trying, tasting, experiencing, seeing and doing everything I possibly can. I do not want to get to the end of my life and say I wish I had, I want to say I remember when I did. Life is a journey and a never ending period of growth. If you stop growing, learning, evolving, changing then you stop living and merely exist. I never want to exist, I want to always live.

As I look back on 2006, I find that I have had the opportunity to keep my promise to myself and have one of those years where I was able to see and do a variety of things I never have had an opportunity to do in the past. I knew as the year started, that this year would be a year of firsts, knowing that I would be doing a few things I never have before. As the year progressed, I realized how much it really was a year of firsts. As I look down this list, each a part of another chapter of my life in progress, I realize the incredible opportunities I have had in my life, and how lucky I have been. It sometimes stuns me, and humbles me, that in our world where turmoil seems to reign, that one can experience good things.

So if you would permit me, I would like to share with you things I have experienced in 2006 for the first time. All have made an impact on me, and I am still in awe that I have been able to do these things. Some of these may seem trivial, and some you may look upon and think, you are just now doing this, I did this when I was 15. But we all grow at different rates, and opportunities come to us differently and at various points in our lives. 2006 was one of those years for me, and I tried to take advantage of each one as best I could. I share these not as part of an ego trip, but merely because I would like to share some of the good times and amazing things I have been blessed and fortunate enough to experience.

2006 was the first time I…..

…. took a trip outside of the country.

…. visited Cabo San Lucas Mexico.

…. went to a wedding in New Jersey.

…. went camping with my girlfriend.

.... visited Yosemite National Park.

…. went to Las Vegas with my girlfriend, her first trip there ever.

…. went to a football game at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh.

…. remember watching the Steelers win a Super Bowl. I was 6 the last time they won the big game.

…. saw all five Steeler Super Bowl trophies in person, and the first time I actually have ever seen a Super Bowl trophy in person.

…. watched live in person the Rose Bowl Parade. Ok, technically this is in 2007, but the planning and prep for the event took place in 2006.

…. saw a concert in the Hollywood Bowl.

…. took in the sights, sounds and revelry of a renaissance fair.

…. ate octopus.

…. drank very expensive spirits. It was at a friend’s who offered us a drink of whisky that was aged 25 years and goes for $350 a bottle. Not surprisingly, it was very smooth and delicious. You do get what you pay for with fine spirits.

…. obtained a U.S. passport.

…. flew in a small two seater plane.

…. I flew a plane.

…. decided what I wanted to be when I grew up and began taking writing seriously.


My hope for 2007 is to experience even more of the things this planet has to offer. I know they may not always be stunning or even enjoyable, but the point of living life is to take the good with the bad, and I hope 2007 brings much more good than bad, as we all do.

I encourage everyone to live life to the fullest. We never know what will happen in the future, and with our world in the state that it is, our lives could change in an instant. Even under the best of circumstances, life is fleeting and short, and we should work hard to cherish each moment we have. Do things that you enjoy, lend a helping hand to those in need, take adventures you never thought you would, see things you only dreamed about, try things that have made you fearful in the past. Grab that brass ring and run with it, in everything you do. Make an impact in your life, and watch how it makes an impact on those around you and your world at large. Living life can help change our world for the better. Push yourselves to add to your life, so one day you can sit back and marvel at all the things that have made your life a full and fulfilled one. Keep a list, check things off, add to it, and check them off. Keep moving, evolving and growing. The more you do, the more you can do. If we all did more, how great would our world be?

The Crystal Ball Week 17

I hope everyone had a great Christmas. I surely did, spending the day with family, opening gifts and stuffing my face like a fool. The payback will come next week when I have to work harder to take off the holiday weight, but hey, that is part of the fun, right? I sure hope so. As we head toward the close of the year, we are also heading for the end of something else, a much sadder end.

This is the last week of the season. There are only 16 regular season games remaining, and then all but 12 teams will go home until next year. Like most fans, I am one of one of the teams going home; I know this is the week to cherish every play. It is the last you will see from your team for 7 long months, until training camp starts anew in July. Look back fondly of the memories of the previous season. Did they go all the way? No, but they gave you some good times, a few things to cheer about, possibly some hope. And in the competitive, and parity ridden world of the NFL, that is all that one can hope for each season. For some teams, it is nothing more than a conclusion to another season of mediocrity. For others, it will be a painful conclusion, when hopes of a post season were dashed. A lucky few will find themselves preparing to play next week. It will be a wild, raucous weekend where it will be difficult to say goodbye to the season for many, and a time for hope for a few.

Unfortunately for me and the girlfriend, Pittsburgh did not come through for us in our inaugural trip to Heinz Field. The fat man obviously did not have a win for me in his bag of gifts. They were creamed, again, by Baltimore 31-7. It was sad to watch the season end there at home, knowing that to keep their already thin playoff hopes alive how desperately they needed to win. It was the last stumble in a season full of them. Sure, at times they showed life, heart and the tenacity and ferociousness that made them the Super Bowl champions. But overall, it was one stumble after another all season for the champs. They got a taste of what it is like to be on top, and how much more difficult it is to defend a title than it is to win one. Hopefully these are lessons they will take with them into the off season, as they watch from the comforts of their homes others compete to take the mantle of Super Bowl champions. Hopefully, that sting will set in and drive them next year. Hopefully, since they are a great team and I would hate for them to short change themselves. They have the tools and talent to reel off a few more championships, and I would love to see another one.

Now, despite the outcome of the game, we had a great time. The stadium is even more beautiful in person than it is on TV. It is situated right on the river with outstanding views of all three rivers, Point Park, the Incline and downtown Pittsburgh. The views alone and the architectural beauty of the stadium itself are enough of a reason to go. I may take a side trip to Pittsburgh this summer to take in a Pirates game and wander around the field again. It was that beautiful. Once we were inside, the experience intensified tenfold. We took in all the sites and smells Heinz Field had to offer. We ate burgers and brats, wandered around the concourse, checked out our seats and even watched a few players begin their pre game warm ups. We drank hot chocolate to keep warm and toasty. Now, it was not too cold comparatively, but being spoiled by warm California weather will cause you to lose your cold weather conditioning. We wandered the Great Hall, looking at all the memorabilia of Steelers great. We trundled through the Walk of Fame, where they have lockers of all the Steelers past hall of famers and greats. I knew Pittsburgh had quite a few hall of fame members, but it was stunning to see them all together honored by their former team. It was a great trip down memory lane. Most importantly, I saw in person all five Super Bowl trophies. I took pictures of each and every one. Stood in front of each of them and marveled at the work, dedication and sacrifice that was put forth by so many men to bring these trophies to Pittsburgh. I got my picture taken with two of them, the first one that started it all, and was won the season I was born, and the last one, that I saw happen before my very eyes.

We watched the stadium fill over the two hour time period before kickoff. The gates were stormed by the Black and Gold faithful, ready to cheer their team to greatness once again. The stands filled as game time approached, each person ripe with excitement. The walkways and standing room only areas teemed with fans giddy with anticipation for a little pay back. The stands rocked as the captains moved to mid field for the coin toss, and exploded once Pittsburgh won the toss and elected to receive. The masses vibrated with anticipation as the teams took the field, readying themselves for the battle ahead. A sea of Black and Gold consumed each person, merging them into a single being, roaring at the opponents and cheering the home team in the same instant. The wind swirled as the seconds ticked down to kickoff, aided by thousands upon thousands of towels waving in the air their terrible power to smite the intruders. The whole scene reached its fevered pitch, the moment was here, and with one last window shattering howl, the faithful poured out all their joy, hopes, dreams, happiness and frustrations into the air in one cacophonous roar as the ball sailed into the air, marking the beginning of the contest. I watched the whole scene unfold, at the same time both in awe of the proceedings around me and as much a part of the pandemonium as everyone else in attendance. The moment produced goose bumps that were not caused by the chill in the air. My hair stood on end and chills of excitement ran up and down my spine. The moment was electric and it was one of the few times in your life you feel the excitement of being a part of something larger than yourself. It was one of the times where if you looked upon something rationally, you would think of those participating as foolish or childish. But if you let yourself go, fall into the moment and let yourself roll with the tide, it is one of the most exciting and exhilarating moments you can have. I only wish the moment was not so fleeting, and that there were more during the course of the game. Alas, that was not to be. There was one other moment in the game that matched the kickoff, and that was during the sequence when Pittsburgh intercepted the ball and then marched down the short field for their only score right before halftime. I felt that excitement then as well, when the faithful, feeling as though things were slipping away and beginning to mourn the lost season, saw one small spark of hope, and rallied around it. They paused momentarily the thoughts of next year, and allowed themselves, even if briefly, to rush back to the moment with the force of a tidal wave, enveloping everything within the confines of the stadium in a roar of joy and approval. They allowed hope back in and focused the power of it back to the field, pushing it out to wash over the combatants they call their team. The roar of the faithful reverberated off of the stadium and rolled out, consuming the rivers and the city. For one last moment, they still had hope, still had the dream of being champions again, still had hope of being on top. As anyone who watched the second half of the game knows, that moment did not last. But it was exhilarating, and I am sure there will be times when it will last. Personally, I cannot wait to do it again.

In other Steeler news, Cowher said a decision concerning his future with the team could come as early as next week. This tells me that not only has he made up his mind, he is not staying. I know I could be wrong, but I do not think so. He knows that with the season ending, his assistants, mostly Whisenhunt and Grimm, will be courted by teams looking for a new leader. He does not want either of them to miss a chance to coach the Steelers. Plus, I think he is just ready for a change. There is a small part of me that thinks he will stay, that he does not want to end his time in Pittsburgh on a sour note or a sour season. But that is a very small part of me. I believe we will see Cowher’s last game on Sunday. I hope they give him a win to ride on into the sunset.

This week, I am an idiot. Seriously, what was I thinking picking Dallas, when Philly obviously has that look about them, TO has been rendered moot by his own stupidity AND there is a new Rocky movie in theaters? Either I hit my head or I was too distracted by going to the game.

Well, I suppose the other 31 teams in the league did something of consequence last week. The Jets are still fighting hard for a playoff spot, and the Eagles are making a run at an unexpected division title. But we can cover anything of consequence in the picks. Besides, there are not that many people playing for much during the last week of the season.

So, not only did I get knocked down by watching the Steelers lose at home, I got killed in poll as well. Talk about adding insult to injury.

Last Week: 8-8
Season to Date: 139-101

At t his point, I am five points out of a money spot in the poll. I still have a chance, but it looks thin. Having a bad week at this stage really hurt my chances, of course that does not include following the Steelers blindly nor having a few other bad weeks this season. Perhaps I am like Pittsburgh as well this season. However, I still have an outside chance, so let’s throw the Hail Mary and see what happens.

Saturday

N.Y. Giants at Washington

New York has something to play for, with their post season hopes hinging on a win and a little help. However, they have taken the inspiration of Tiki’s last season and flushed it away long ago with petty bickering and infighting, and the unfortunate bad luck of ill timed injuries. This is one of those games where they will stink up the place, and the Redskins will play just good enough to start the much improved talk for next season. Plus, it puts a capper on the crappy slate of games shown by the NFL Network. If they keep this up next season, this experiment will fail faster than the USFL.

Washington over N.Y. Giants


Sunday New Years Eve

Carolina at New Orleans

Carolina has Delhomme back for the season finale in New Orleans. Will it make a difference? Nope. I’ve seen too many quarterbacks in their return from injury stink up the joint in their first game back. New Orleans does not really have anything to play for at this point, with their post season locked up, but I think they will want to give the people of New Orleans a season ending gift.

New Orleans over Carolina


Cleveland at Houston

Woof. There really isn’t much to say about this game. There are not many games left on the schedules that have zero impact, but this is one of them. Since only the people of Cleveland and maybe 25 people in Houston will give a crap, let’s not linger on this one.

Houston over Cleveland


Detroit at Dallas

I really cannot see Detroit putting up much of a fight, and Dallas desperately needs the win, especially after losing to Philadelphia last week. Hopefully, for the sake of the good people of Detroit, Matt Millen’s tenure as GM will soon be over. I mentioned before how I would fix the team, and if the Ford family is still interested, I am still available.

Dallas over Detroit


Jacksonville at Kansas City

I think the only thing that will help the Jags this week is the suit, and Del Rio already wore his suit the allowed two times. KC is still holding on to some faint playoff hopes, and the atmosphere in Arrowhead will reflect this situation. Plus, since Herm Edwards is working on running Larry Johnson into the ground, their pass offense will have lots of room to work. KC will win, but miss the playoffs. Enjoy the game Chiefs fans, this is as close to the post season as you will get, I hate to say.

Kansas City over Jacksonville


New England at Tennessee

That Vince Young train is fun to ride, isn’t it? Always thrilling, sometimes unpredictable, but always roars into the station ahead. The Patriots have little to play for, are already banged up and need to try to get somewhat healthy for the playoffs. Not that it will help, since I do not see them going far relying solely on Tom Brady to save the day. But that is a discussion for next week. This week, Tennessee will be playing to make an unexpected trip to the playoffs, and Vince will once again get the job done.

Tennessee over New England


Oakland at N.Y. Jets

Speaking of playing for an unexpected playoff spot, allow me to introduce the New York Jets! Eric Mangini has really done a number with this group, pushing them further and putting them in a position to continue their season that at the beginning of the year, no one thought was possible. They have been a group of overachievers who never quit, and could be scary come post season time. Oakland, well, what is there really to say at this point? Hopefully, the NFL will just get it over with and disband them due to the cruelty that they inflict upon the viewing public. Hmmm, maybe they could just swap them out with the Rhein Fire or a semi-pro team. It could not be worse.

N.Y. Jets over Oakland


Pittsburgh at Cincinnati

Ok, so the short lived flicker of hope has been rudely snuffed out. Yes, the dream is over, there will be no post season, no magical run to the championship, and no real title defense. But, there is one thing they can still do this season, one task left that will not only bring up their record to .500, but also exact some nice revenge. They should have beaten Cincinnati earlier this year, no doubt about it. But they gave the game away, and ultimately it cost them dearly. But now, they can cream the Bengals, and send them packing for home, or a halfway house or just the local lock up, whichever they prefer. They knocked them out of the playoffs last year, time to do it again.

Pittsburgh over Cincinnati


Seattle at Tampa Bay

Seattle backed into the playoffs on losses rather than wins. I do not see them staying there long. But this week? I do not know. Tampa Bay has played pretty well of late, going into overtime against the Bears, and pounding on Cleveland. Seattle has looked like garbage lately, even with Alexander and Hasselbeck back from injury. Tampa is playing for a small bit of pride, Seattle, to try to turn things around before the first round and not become one of the worst division champions in history at 8-8.

Seattle over Tampa Bay


St. Louis at Minnesota

Another crappy game between two crappy teams who will do nothing but take up three hours of someone’s time on Sunday. I really cannot see which team is worse. The Rams have the firepower, but never seem to be able to use it. Minnesota obviously has a long way to go if Green Bay can hold them to 7 measly points. Usually, I go with the home team, but I think Childress has more work ahead of him to do until I can feel good about the team. Plus, there is an outside chance the Rams could make it to the wild card round as cannon fodder.

St. Louis over Minnesota


Arizona at San Diego

Yeah, like anyone thinks Arizona will do anything against the San Diego back ups. Everyone, just watch and enjoy the last time we see San Diego dominant, since Rivers and Shottenheimer will likely choke somewhere in the playoffs. I am guessing it will be in the same game. Probably the conference championship, but perhaps the divisionals. We will just have to wait and see. And for those Arizona fans, sit back and enjoy Denny Green’s last game, and cross your fingers they get an offensive line and a better coach in the off season.

San Diego over Arizona


Atlanta at Philadelphia

Speaking of future coaching changes, allow me to introduce the Atlanta Falcons! Does anyone really feel secure in thinking that Jim Mora will be roaming the Falcon sideline next season? Neither do I. But, the team is sorely underperforming, and considering the money invested in Vick, I doubt Arthur Blank is going to side with the coach. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is rolling, overcoming key injuries and playing like a team on fire. After giving this for just a slight amount of thought, which I did not last week, there is no way I can pick against them for two reasons. One, if they win, they win the division; and if that is not motivation, I have no idea what could be motivation. And two, Rocky is back in theaters, and Invincible is out on DVD. With these two Philly underdogs everywhere, who can stop the underdog Eagles?

Philadelphia over Atlanta


Buffalo at Baltimore

I was toying with taking Buffalo, since they have been playing well, and Baltimore has nothing more to prove. But a few things keep bugging me. One, they are in Baltimore, and that cannot be easy for anyone. Two, Buffalo could not take care of Tennessee, a lesser team compared to Baltimore, last week at home. And three, Baltimore had no real reason to win last week, but they still hammered a 7-7 team. It seems too easy to pick the Ravens, but there are many good reasons for that.

Baltimore over Buffalo


Miami at Indianapolis

Indianapolis still has a crappy run defense, a mediocre running game and looks much weaker than they have in the past few years. However, they are going up against Miami, who has benched Joey Harrington in favor of Cleo Lemon. Personally, I am not taking Cleo Lemon on the road, even if he ends up facing Jim Sorgi for most of the game.

Indianapolis over Miami


San Francisco at Denver

Well, perhaps the switch to Cutler may have been the right call after all. He seems to be getting his feet under him. But I am not sold yet. He did well against a determined Bungles team last week, so perhaps there is hope. However, going hard after the 49ers could be a nice last chance warm up before the playoffs.

Denver over San Francisco


Green Bay at Chicago

Da Bears have wrapped everything up, and have no reason to do anything but make it to the playoffs healthy. Green Bay, however, has everything to play for. The list is long; a chance to finish at .500 which is a 4 game improvement over last year; A chance to showcase their young talent, with a chance for more next year and possibly attract an influx of veteran talent; an opportunity to make the playoffs; and of course, the possibility of the last time Favre suits up for the Pack. Now, typically I try to avoid the nonsense of is this the last year for Brett or not. I think it distracts from the team, from his accomplishments and is usually nothing more than nonsensical white noise. But, this could be it. And if it is, you know he will go out with both barrels, and that could give him the edge. I hate to go against Da Bears, but this could be the upset of the day.

Green Bay over Chicago

Christmas Wishes

I would like to pass on to one and all a very Merry Christmas today. I hope all out there are able to be with friends, family and loved ones today and to partake in the celebration of this day. I would hope also that we have all given a bit this season of ourselves to help those who are less fortunate than others. Please think of those who today are less fortunate and may not be having a very merry time, and hope that they will be able to soon. Also think of those who cannot be with loved ones due to circumstances like weather, job or something unforeseen. And please think of those service men and women who are deployed around the globe to keep us safe and to help make the world a better place. Whether or not you agree with why they are out there, remember, they are fellow humans, son, daughters, husbands, wives, fathers and mothers who are away from those who love them. They need some extra support this time of year, so send them some Christmas wishes and joy to enliven their lives and keep them safe.

If this is not a day for you, then please enjoy the festivities regardless. I understand we all come from different backgrounds, cultures and religions, and even though I celebrate Christmas, not everyone does. I do wish for those who are Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist and Jewish or another faith different from Christianity to find happiness and joy this day as well. I would like to hope that in our world, there is more than enough joy to go around for everybody, regardless of age, sex, race, religion or culture. That would be a wonderful Christmas wish to come true.

Before I go to enjoy the day with my family, I would like to give you a chuckle. I found the following article about 12 years ago. I cannot take credit for writing it; I had absolutely nothing to do with it. I wish I had, because it never fails to make me laugh each year. I always get a profound guffaw from it when I break it out fresh each December. I find it a fantastic merging of myth and science for comedic effect. But before you read this, I would like to state for the record I do not believe any of this is true. The original author, whoever he or she may be, forgot to calculate in the magic of Santa Claus. Yes, scientifically it may seem impossible, but hey, we are talking Santa here. So do not worry, I know the following hypothesis is not true. Besides, I watched the Santa Tracker from NORAD last night, so I know he was out there. Hee hee. Now, without further ado, enjoy the following, but remember, take it with a grain of salt. Santa is real. Merry Christmas to one and all.


Santa Facts

1) No known species of reindeer can fly. But there are 300,000 species of living organisms yet to be classified. While most of these are insects and germs, this does not COMPLETELY rule out flying reindeer, which only Santa has ever seen.

2) There are 2 billion children (persons under 18) in the world. But since Santa does not (appear) to handle the Muslim, Hindu, Jewish and Buddhist children, that reduces the workload to 15% of the total – 378 Million according to the Population Reference Bureau. At an average (census) rate of 3.5 children per household, that is 91.8 million homes. One presumes there is at least one good child in each home.

3) Santa has 31 hours of Christmas to work with, thanks to the different time zones and the rotation of the Earth, assuming he travels east to west (which seems logical). This works out to 822.6 visits per second. This is to say that for each Christian household with good children, Santa has 1/1000th of a second to park, hop out of the sleigh, jump down the chimney, fill the stockings, distribute the remaining presents under the tree, eat whatever snacks have been left, get back up the chimney, get back into the sleigh and move on to the next house. Assuming that each of these 91.8 million stops are evenly distributed around the Earth (which, of course, we know to be false but for the purposes of our calculations we will accept), we are now talking about .78 miles per household, a total trip of 75.5 million miles, not counting stops to do what most of us must do at least once every 31 hours, plus feeding and etc.

This means that Santa’s sleigh is moving at 650 miles per second, 3,000 times the speed of sound. For purposes of comparison, the fastest man-made vehicle on Earth, the Ulysses space probe, moves at a poky 27.4 miles per second. A conventional reindeer can run, tops, 15 miles per hour.

4) The payload on the sleigh adds another interesting element. Assuming that each child gets nothing more than a medium-sized Lego set (2 pounds), the sleigh is carrying 321,000 tons, not counting Santa, who is invariably described as overweight. On land, conventional reindeer can pull no more than 300 pounds. Even granting that “flying reindeer” (see point #1) could pull TEN TIMES the normal amount, we cannot do the job with eight, or even nine. We need 214,000 reindeer. This increases the payload to 353430 tons. Again, for comparison, this is four times the weight of the Queen Elizabeth.

5) 353,430 tons traveling at 650 miles per second creates enormous air resistance. This will heat the reindeer up in the same fashion as spacecraft re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere. The lead pair of reindeer will absorb 14.3 QUINTILLION joules of energy. Per second. Each. In short, they will burst into flame almost instantaneously, exposing the reindeer behind them and creating deafening sonic booms in their wake. The entire reindeer team will be vaporized within 4.26 thousandths of a second. Santa, meanwhile, will be subjected to centrifugal forces 17,500.06 times greater than gravity. A 250 pound Santa (which seems ludicrously slim), would be pinned to the back of his sleigh by 4,315,015 pounds of force.

In conclusion, if Santa ever DID deliver presents on Christmas Eve, he’s dead now.

The Crystal Ball Week 16

Merry Christmas to one and all! It is that time of the year, when friends and family come together for merriment and joy. I send out my best Christmas wishes to all of you, and a Happy Hanukah and Happy Kwanza as well. Here is hoping all of your holiday wishes come true!

WOW! Now that was a game! It took a while, but Pittsburgh finally looks like the defending Super Bowl champions. I have been waiting all season for a complete game against a good team like that. We had one against Kansas City, and almost one against Atlanta, but this was a great one, especially since Carolina was a preseason Super Bowl pick. I could not have been more thrilled by the overall play of the offense and the defense.

Willie Parker had an excellent day running, notching his first road 100 yard game of the season in front of friends and family from the Carolina area. We all know now about how he was barely used in college, and if I was a North Carolina fan, I have to ask how dumb their coaches must be after watching Parker torch NFL defenses each week. He already has more yards this season than last, and has a shot of hitting 1500 for the season. And remember, this is only his third year. Imagine how good he will be when he hits his prime. I personally cannot wait.

Also, great play by free safety Anthony Smith. Fantastic defense and two picks show that the young rookie is starting to get the system. No, like most I did not care for the show boating, and he should have kept running after the interception, but he is going to be great. He is a rookie and will settle down, I’m sure LeBeau and Cowher will make sure of that, since both had a few words with him after the pick. But I am too busy right now imagining the defensive backfield of him and Polamalu. That backfield with McFadden, Taylor, Clark, Carter, Logan and Townsend will give offenses fits for years to come. I am giddy with excitement.

Plus, a thrilling punt return by Santonio Holmes really capped the day. Yes, he lost the ball on the attempt before, but he completely made up for it with that scintillating run. He seems to be starting to get things as well. If he could just improve his catching skills and ability to hold onto the ball, he will be stellar.

And with the surprise of the game, I also saw a flash of last year with an excellent receiver pass by Cedrick Wilson. I am glad to see we have that back in the bag of tricks. Shame it took us so long to break that one out again.

It looks, and maybe I am just being overly optimistic, that this team has finally realized that even though they lost some key people, they can still win games, are still a good team and have others that can step up into those positions and roles. I couldn’t be happier about that. The only problem I have with it is that they took this long for them to figure that out. I wish I could experience a Super Bowl win, the party must be so good for the hangover to last until November.

Now, thanks to their victory, and Tennessee’s and Cincinnati’s losses, the faint playoff hopes of the men from the Steel City remain alive, if for just another week. I know it is still beyond a long shot, with 4 teams at 8-6 and 4, including Pittsburgh, at 7-7 fighting for two wild card spots. It will take two wins and about a super tanker full of luck, but I think it might be possible. But they must win, and this sets up a stellar showdown against Baltimore at home next week, and I will have much more on this later.

Another interesting topic came up for discussion again in Steeler Nation, with Coach Cowher discussing publicly his future in coaching and with the team. The article, found in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, was very interesting, and telling. Throughout the press conference, Cowher shot down many of the perceived ideas of reasons why he is contemplating his future. He stated that he is not burned out or tired of coaching, nor is watching his daughters play basketball and begin their lives a part of his decision. I had always thought that family was a big part of it, and perhaps even a little bit of burn out. The telling part was when someone brought up money and its part in the decision; he stated that subject would not be broached. What the article told me were two things. One, he is unsure of whether he wants to coach or not, and it is not about family or fatigue, but about desire. I am not surprised by this, since most of the season he has looked rather uninspired overall. Plus, he even acknowledged in the interview he contemplated retiring after last season. And two, it is about money. I do not blame him entirely there. He is one of the elder statesmen of coaches in the league. He has been the face of the team for 15 years now, and has brought an extended period of success and stability to the franchise. Plus, he is only 49 years old, and could conceivably coach for a long time to come. And in some circles, it is thought he is just reaching his coaching prime. All of these are valid points, and in a profession where turnover and job instability are common, it is hard to blame him to want a big raise, especially after leading the team to a Super Bowl win, and having a squad that could potentially win a few more. However, it is still disappointing when you know that it is not about loyalty or desire or team and that it boils down to money. Yes, in the world we live in, this should be far from a surprise, but it still lets you down. You always hope one person will not make it about the money, but greed can corrupt even the best of people and intentions. But before he makes this into a money fight where sides could get hurt and people could walk away with irreparably damaged feelings and relationships, I would like to remind the coach of a few things. This is a team that is notorious for not overpaying for a product. It has been what has helped keep them competitive both on and off the field for a long time. They have had the utmost confidence in you since the day you were hired and never wavered that you were the coach and the one in charge. When it came down to you and Tom Donahoe, they went with you. When you had a few losing seasons, they never debated and showed their faith by re-signing you. You have had an unparalleled level of job security and ownership confidence that almost every other coach in the league would give almost anything to have. Keep this in mind when the contract talks begin again after the season. Whatever Cowher decides for his future, I wish him well and hope he makes the right decisions for both himself and his family, since at the end of the day those are the most important things in life. I just hope money does not ruin something that has been good for both him and the Steelers.

With the short weeks that have occurred during this part of the season due to the Thursday night game, I find I miss a few things with having to post so early each week. Here are a couple of things I missed last week that I would like to bring up.

First was the hilarious press conference with Tom Brady, where he went off on the media regarding the Dolphins, the rumors of them learning his cadence from procured tapes and getting the best of him in a 21-0 shut out. Watching Tom totally lose his cool was entertaining as all get out. You know I love anything that shows another chink in not just the Patriot armor, but also the armor of the great Tom Brady. Usually he plays things as cool as a cucumber, but he was so discombobulated about the loss, and the thought that he was bested by such an inadequate team had him completely unraveled. First Tom, they did best you, you had one of the worst games as a pro that day, so nut up and accept it. Second, if they did figure out your cadence by watching game tape and exploited it, good for them. Once again, nut up and overcome this. You are a Super Bowl champion, find a way to overcome. And third, you know the comparisons between him and Joe Montana have been going on for a few years now, and there are valid points to them. But I do not think it is just me when I say, I don’t think I would see Joe lashing out at the media after having a bad game like that. They did not call him Joe Cool for nothing. Tom, perhaps you need to take a few more lessons yet from Joe.

Second, I found this piece in an article in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette on 12-14.

“One thing Parker and guard Alan Faneca agreed on is the need for another halfback to complement him next season, preferably a bulldozer who can ram into a pile and move it. He would not have to weigh as much as Jerome Bettis, but must have that kind of running style.
It has been a topic of discussion for much of the season as Parker carried 72.7 percent of the time with 264 runs.

"I think that would be great, another back, a 1-2 punch," Parker said. "I think that would be great. And the way we run the ball, and the way we want to run the ball, I think that would be a great decision ...

"Me and Jerome, we did a phenomenal job last year, and I thought that's how we were going to be this year, but we didn't go that way."

It didn't go that way because Duce Staley, cut last week, was supposed to be that man but was judged not capable by the end of training camp and was inactive for 11 of his 12 games.” ”

Not to say I told you so but I told you so, specifically back in week 13. I feel very strongly about having a change up back to spell Parker and after reading this, I feel validated. If not only Parker, but also Faneca and others see this, I feel as though I may know a couple of things about this game we call football. Now, if only I could get a job in the NFL, I may be able to use this power for good.

Ok, enough of the past, onto the fun from last week in the NFL.

Tony Romo, welcome to the NFL. He had an excellent rebound week after the New Orleans trouncing, taking care of business in Atlanta. He has the poise, and short memory, needed to be a successful quarterback in the NFL. Congratulations Cowboy fans, you have a good one in Romo.

I said it before, and I will say it again. Who wants to play the Tennessee Titans right now? Even on a day where their offense could do nothing, Vince Young looked mortal, and they had less than 100 yards of offense all day, their defense steps up and puts in three scores that wins them the game. The whole team is playing with fire as a unit, the kind of team that can turn playoff dreams into nightmares. If I were a team on the playoff bubble, I would be afraid of playing the Titans. And even scarier, the Titans have played themselves right into the playoff picture. How much you want to bet they wrap up 9-7 with a chance for a wild card spot right until the end of the last day of the season? I am not taking that bet.

The referees in the Philadelphia/New York game were so painfully homers, it was not even funny. Philly won the game despite the referees. The taunting call on Jeff Garcia was ridiculous. My God, these are grown men, they cannot take a little name calling? What do you think goes on out on that field, a recipe exchange? The defensive holding penalty on Philly at the end zone was beyond stupid, especially since Shockey was holding the defender as well. The referees were calling every possible Philadelphia infraction, which I would not have a problem with, except they were conveniently ignoring the blatant Giant ones. I personally saw Garcia hit well after the pass, and it was never called. Troy Aikman, in the booth, even pointed it out once, and still there was no call. Finally, near the end of the game they finally had to acknowledge roughing the passer, but it was after Garcia threw a touchdown pass, so the penalty meant nothing. The referees are supposed to be impartial, but in this game they were clearly swayed by the home crowd. I have seen this crew work before, and they have a terrible habit of working against the away teams in games. NFL, I’m begging you, do something about this before your referee crews are as bad as the ones in the NBA.

Now, despite the issues with the officiating, the game was an exciting nail biter until the fantastic interception and return that sealed the game. Back and forth they went all afternoon, two great combatants striving for the playoffs and division supremacy. But fortune always favors the bold and Philadelphia was bold from the start. On fourth and goal with the distance barely a foot, the Eagles sent Brian Westbrook over the top for the touchdown. They did not play scared, they did not play for a field goal; they played to win. It showed on that play, and in the final box score. And because of this type of play, Philadelphia now holds their playoff fate in their hands and is set up for a great match up next week against Dallas on Christmas Day. Trust me there will definitely be more on this later.

What is going on with Da Bears defense? For the second straight week, they gave up a ton of points and this time it almost cost them the game. Tampa Bay came back from a huge deficit to send the game into overtime. Did the D decide to take the second half off, just to rest up early for the playoffs? I know Da Bears clinched home field throughout the playoffs, but there have been more than a few kinks in their armor as of late. Unless they are holding back, I am feeling less and less confident about their playoff chances. Sorry Ditka, but I know you see them too.

The Bengals will always be the Bungles, and from now on here, I will call them nothing but the Bungles. They honked a winnable game against the Colts on Monday Night, when their post season hopes hinged on a win. After the game, Marvin Lewis blamed the loss on dropped passes, saying these killed the offense and caused them to fall out of rhythm. I am going to say it, and I am sure I will not be the only one, but the reason they lost that game is not because of dropped passes, but because of poor coaching. They came into the game with a poor plan. They did nothing to pressure Peyton Manning, and everyone knows if you get in Manning’s face, he falls to pieces and the powerful Colt offense derails. When this happens, the onus to win the game falls upon their defense, and everyone knows they cannot toe the line to win games for Indianapolis. This was one of the major keys to Pittsburgh’s playoff win in Indianapolis last season. The other poor plan was they tried to copy Jacksonville and run all over the weak Colts defense. Not a bad plan if you execute correctly, which they did not. Plus, there were two distinct differences in how Jacksonville executed this plan and how Cincinnati executed it. First, the Jaguars have two good backs, and that helps, while the Bungles only have one. Second, they put pressure on Peyton, which helped loosen things up for the offense, which the Bungles did not. Once Cincinnati found out their running game was not working, did they adjust and unleash Carson Palmer? No, they ran the ball again and again and again to no avail. And the key poor coaching moment came at the beginning of the fourth quarter. The Bungles had the ball on a 4th and goal with 3 yards to go. They are down 18 points and need to score right away to have any chance. What did they do? They trotted in the field goal unit, took the three points and never scored again. When you are down big with little time left in the game, you need a touchdown. Your defense has obviously not been playing their best game, and they need scoring help. Plus, the whole team could use the lift of getting a touchdown to reinvigorate them. By kicking that field goal, Marvin Lewis showed the entire team that he had given up, and just was hoping that the score did not look like too big of a blow out. You play to win the game, not to lessen the margin of defeat. Marvin Lewis should take a few lessons from Andy Reid in situations like this. I used to like Marvin Lewis and what he had done for Cincinnati, but with the growing issues of the character on most of the team and the obvious choking in big games, I am beginning to see that he is little more than a mediocre coach whose team wins despite of him, like most of the teams in the league. Because of this chicken scratch type of coaching, this Bungle team will not go to the playoffs. If this is how they will operate, they will probably win in Denver next week in a bounce back game against a weakened opponent, but then they will get killed against Pittsburgh, and their season will end right there, on their own field, at the hands of the Steelers just like last year. Mark it, since this is what will happen.

This week, Terrell Owens is an idiot. Now, he could conceivably win this every week as far as I am concerned, but he particularly stood out this week. He still leads the league in drops, and he did not even have 100 yards receiving, but he had two touchdown catches, and everyone says he had a great game. Please. It is more than painfully obvious that the Cowboys prefer to run their offense with the threat of TO as opposed to running it through TO. He is more beneficial to them as a distraction and a decoy than actually doing anything. He knows it too, which is why he runs his mouth, so he can at least have people talking about him. And for the purely idiotic part of his week, he spits in DeAngelo Hall’s face, bringing the ire of Hall, the Falcons, countless fans and Roger Goodell, who slapped Owens with a $35,000 fine for the incident. After the game, during an interview with the NFL Network crew, even hall of fame hot dogger/self promoter Deion Sanders was incredulous about Owens’s actions, being a voice of reason regarding the incident, schooling Owens and chastising him for his behavior. You know you have gone way too far when Sanders takes issue with your behavior. Before he goes completely wacko, I woud like to make a suggestion for TO’s next book, Little T Learns to Act Like A Human Being. Now, please, let us all start ignoring him until he goes away.

This week I had one of those stellar weeks where almost all of my long shot picks panned out. Check it.

Last Week: 12-4
Season to Date: 131-93

Oddly enough, even after such a fantastic performance, I came in second again in the poll. That’s two weeks in a row in second. Can I make a push for a winning week? Who knows? I may be a little distracted in my picks, since I am giddy with excitement. Yes, I will be in Pittsburgh on Sunday to catch the Steelers/Ravens collision. Pittsburgh has their faint playoff hopes on the line, and a massive payback game after their dismantling in Baltimore a few weeks back. Ok, I know that there is a very real possibility they could get creamed again. I do not believe it, but I recognize the fact. It really does not matter to me. I am so excited to see a game in Heinz Field; I am bouncing off the walls. We will hit the tailgates, walk around the whole stadium, I’m going to get a Primanti Brothers sandwich, yum, and we’re going to tour the Great Hall where all the past great Steeler moments are on display. And for the first time ever, I will see all of Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl trophies. Oh, I’m getting giddy all over again. Ok, before I go too nuts, let’s get to this week.


Thursday

Minnesota at Green Bay

Could this be Brett Favre’s last game in Lambeau? With the way the NFL Network is plugging it, you would think it was. All the advertising is geared toward the possibility that this will be the last time Favre takes the field in Lambeau. You know, with the way he’s playing and the way the team is starting to come together, I doubt it. I had been referring to this season as the Favre Farewell Tour, but now I am not so sure. I bet he suits up again next year. The real story should be that both of these teams, despite their 6-8 records, are still in the playoff hunt in the NFC. Personally, I think Green Bay has a better chance, especially since Minnesota is falling apart at a rapid pace. Brad Childress still has a lot of work there to bring glory back to the Vikings.

Green Bay over Minnesota


Saturday

Kansas City at Oakland

Well, KC now has to fight like banshees to keep even their ridiculously slim playoff hopes alive. Considering they are in the glut of 7-7 teams, and Pittsburgh holds a tie breaker over them, I do not see them honoring Lamar Hunt with an inspired playoff run. I do see them, however, honoring him with a pasting of Oakland, who is just trying to get out of 2006 at this point.

Kansas City over Oakland


Sunday Christmas Eve

Baltimore at Pittsburgh

Oh man, oh man oh man is this going to be a good game! Well, that and it will be a great time! I seriously cannot wait. I am as excited about this as I am about Christmas. This is like an early present, getting to be around like minded Steeler nuts in Heinz Field with everything on the line. Now if Santa could just help out a bit with a nice win. I have a feeling the fat man will come through for me.

Pittsburgh over Baltimore


Carolina at Atlanta

Two crappy teams going in crappy directions is what this game is all about. Atlanta still has some playoff hopes, and I suppose Carolina does too. But Atlanta has a better inside track toward grabbing a spot. Plus, Carolina last week looked like they had just given up. I cannot feel confident about picking a team like that, even when they are playing the erratic Falcons and the inconsistent Vick.

Atlanta over Carolina


Chicago at Detroit

I am starting to worry a bit about Da Bears. Sure, they got it done last week, but giving up a 21 point lead and having a crappy team force overtime, in your own stadium, does not bode well for future success. Then again, perhaps they took a few plays off, knowing they had everything locked up. So will they do the same this week? It is possible, I bet they even rest some of the starters since they have home field locked up as well. But despite those things, I still do not see them losing to Detroit, the Lions just suck too bad.

Chicago over Detroit


Indianapolis at Houston

Well, it seems as though Indianapolis and their defense in particular, has some life left in them after all. With that nice win over Cincinnati, they have given themselves an inside track toward a first round bye. Not that it has helped in the past, but they do have a few injuries to overcome. I think after sitting starters for so long last year, Tony will want to keep his first team in and fresh as long as safely possible this year. In this game, they’ll probably be sipping Gatorade by the third quarter.

Indianapolis over Houston


New England at Jacksonville

So Jacksonville could not even beat Tennessee when Vince Young had the worst game of his young career. That does not sound like a playoff team to me. Even worse, Fred Taylor had his annual hamstring injury. I know he says it is just tweaked, and he did not pull it. But you know he will be either tentative, fearing a pull, or will go overboard and really pull it, ending his season. Either way, I do not like their chances. New England took out their frustrations on Houston last week, and since they still want to win their division and have an outside chance at a first round bye, you know they will be coming hard, doubly so to show they can win in Florida.

New England over Jacksonville


New Orleans at N.Y. Giants

Ok, so the Redskins team that wins games showed up last week, go figure. I know I cannot. I still think New Orleans will win at least one playoff game, if Payton can remember to keep Brees passing and then hit them with Deuce. They still have seeding to fight for, and they will be fighting. The Giants, on the other hand, well, they could have won against Philly, but the Eagles wanted it more, plain and simple. Plus, they looked erratic and Eli seems to be continuing his downward slide to mediocrity. This week, any hopes for the post season die a sad death on the Meadowlands turf.

New Orleans over N.Y. Giants


Tampa Bay at Cleveland

Now here is an interesting game, even if it is two crappy teams. Tampa Bay played tough against Chicago last week, almost pulling off a huge upset. Cleveland played tough against Baltimore, staying with the Ravens until late in the game when Baltimore pulled away. Yes they both lost, but they also showed something both have rarely showed this season, some life. So who to go with? I thought this was a hard one until I realized one simple fact; the AFC is a much better conference than the NFC right now. And with that in mind, the pick became clear.

Cleveland over Tampa Bay


Tennessee at Buffalo

Ok, who would have thought this, Tennessee and Buffalo near the end of the season, with both teams fighting for a chance at a playoff spot? I certainly did not, and I doubt anyone except for the most diehard of Bills and Titans fans would have either. But here they are, and the winner stays in contention, possibly, and the loser plans on wrapping up the season next week. So who to go with? I’m riding that Vince Young train until it derails.

Tennessee over Buffalo


Washington at St. Louis

Ugh, this is a true crap fest. Since I have made a commitment to pick every game this season, minus the pre season of course, I might as well get this one over with. I have not one interesting thought about this game other than it will come to an end at some point, and then the good people of St. Louis can enjoy their Christmas Eve.

St. Louis over Washington


Arizona at San Francisco

Another crapfest, but this one comes with an interesting twist. Thanks to two wins over Seattle, San Francisco has a chance to actually win the NFC West. Now who would have thought that? This has to be a really weird season in the NFL. I blame myself, since this is the first season I have done a column. Anyway, with something like a division crown to play for, it seems as though the 49ers will come out hard. Arizona, well, they are just waiting for the off season where they hope to get an offensive line and a better coach.

San Francisco over Arizona


Cincinnati at Denver

Hey, Bungles, thanks for the shaft on Monday, you jerks. What was I thinking picking them anyway? Good gravy. Well, call me a glutton for punishment, because I am about to do it again. Yes, Cutler looked good last week, but he looked good against Arizona. Not like the Bungles can stop a big passer, though. Honestly, the only reason for this is I need Denver to lose and lose fast. Pittsburgh can handle Cincinnati next week.

Cincinnati over Denver


San Diego at Seattle

Oh please, like there is anything worth watching during this game. Even on cruise control, as long as Shottenheimer does not interfere, the Chargers can easily handle the Seahawks. The Hawks are in a bit of desperation mode, but I doubt it will make much of a difference.

San Diego over Seattle


Monday Christmas

Philadelphia at Dallas

This could very well be the game of the week. Dallas is working to secure not only a playoff spot, but also the division. Philadelphia has given themselves the inside track on a playoff spot and with a win this week and next, could take the division outright. That is a huge game for both teams. Philly won the previous meeting, but were not as banged up as they are now. Dallas did lose before, but they were not playing Romo. Personally, I want Philly to win, I really do. However, just looking objectively at it, I think Dallas has just a little bit more than the Eagles do. I hate to do it, but I must. And if the Eagles prove me wrong, I will happily accept the loss.

Dallas over Philadelphia


N.Y. Jets at Miami

Ok, the Jets have positioned themselves nicely for a playoff spot, yet I still have to wonder if anyone will watch this game. It is the second one of the day, and most households, if they tune into one, will put the kibosh on a second game. And if anyone had to pick between the two, this one would not get picked. Since the Jets have a tendency to lose odd games, and Miami is doing its meaningless December push, last week not withstanding because a win there could have pushed them into even remote contention, I’m going Dolphins at home.

Miami over N.Y. Jets

And Ever and Ever

I was asked about my recent post regarding eternity and why it scared me. What was it about it that had me so frightened specifically. As I mentioned before, it was the never ending aspect of eternity that frightened me. How the thought of something going on and never ending, truly never ending, just was bone chilling. We tend to use the term forever in ways in our life where it really has no meaning, knowing at some point we will move on from this existence, thus negating the forever in our statements. Since our lives do come to an end, nothing we do here can really be forever. But in the next life, depending upon what we believe, it is forever, either good or bad, but forever. That is the part that was most frightening to me.

One other part of it I failed to mention was that for us here, time is a huge part of our lives. Everything we do is based upon time. No matter who we are, we are always gauging things by the clock. Making it to a meeting, waiting for something to arrive, scheduling vacations or family time or just time to unwind, everything is geared around the concept of time. But in the next life, is there really time? Would we even need to look at a clock? Would they even exist? Of course not, there is no time. There is no clock watching or scheduling or calendars, which in and of itself is a wonderful thought and concept. Knowing time is no longer an issue and we have more than enough to do all the things we want is beyond appealing.

And with this time, knowing I would never have to rush or hurry or wrap something up, I could live lifetime after lifetime in different ways, making different decisions, trying different things, as though I were changing designs on a car, looking for the best fit. This concept took away the fear for me. It showed me that my concept of things previously was not wrong, just very limited. But another thought about this concept dawned on me after talking about eternity. What if that is what we are doing now? What if this life now is just another in a long succession of lives we have already led, and will continue to lead? I previously thought that after this life, we would move on to another plane, retaining the knowledge and experiences from this one. But what if that does not happen? What if once we reach the end of this life, we then hit the proverbial reset button and start fresh all over again? We would go again through this coil, but without any knowledge or experience from the last time. Would we make the same dumb mistakes as before, or completely new ones? Many cultures have beliefs that mirror this idea, some not limiting the reincarnation to merely human form, but other creatures as well. This is not a new concept, I know I am not stumbling onto a mystery of the universe here; this is one that has been in existence for thousands of years. But it makes for interesting debate and thought

Also, there are those who also believe in reincarnation where the soul lives many lifetimes. You would not remember the previous life, but your soul would, and it guides you in successive lives to avoid the pitfalls you once faced. The signs of the Zodiac are based on this where you live 12 lives, each under a different sign before you move on to the next plane. It is an interesting concept, and according to the signs, my soul only has one more life to go before I move on. Maybe that is a good thing, or perhaps not. I do not necessarily believe this myself. I believe we get one shot on this plane and then move on to the next. I could be wrong, and I will not know the answer until I pass on. But one part that always bothers me about those who believe in this form of reincarnation is the previous lives they have recalled. The people who recall these lives always seem to have lived these spectacular and important lives previous to their current life. I have trouble believing that. I tend to feel that they are looking to make themselves seem more important or powerful now by saying how important and powerful they once were. You never seem to hear someone say they were a slave forced to build the pyramids, or that they were a cockney whore in 17th century London. Hey, I could be wrong about this, though. Perhaps there are those out there with past life recollections that have had these lives. I suppose they are not talking about them for obvious reasons.

I like to think that we get our one shot here, and then move on to the next plane. There, we retain who we have become, but with our minds, intelligence and wisdom broadened beyond a scope we could never even dream possible here in this plane. And there, we can use this newly gained knowledge to live many lifetimes, expanding ourselves even further, and living lives we never thought we could. With no time barrier to hold us back, we can always do what we want and when we want and with anyone we want. It will be a paradise of knowledge and adventure and joy with those that touched us here in this plane. All the things we always wanted to try are right there for us to do, and probably an infinite number of things we never even knew about. There might be delights and joys and adventures unbeknownst to us now. The thoughts and possibilities may truly be limitless, and I am excited to know that once my time here is over, hopefully a very, very long time from now, I get to start a whole new adventure.

But what do I really know about any of this? About as much as everyone else, which is next to nothing. And that is the whole point; it is a big guessing game. What happens to us after this life is like a big present under the tree. It is wrapped carefully, and no matter how much you shake it or hold it or touch it, it gives no clues to what’s inside. And once you unwrap it, and you only get to do that once, that is when you find out if you got the best present ever, or a fruitcake. And yes, I did just use fruitcake as a euphemism for hell. Seems fitting, does it not?

Forever and Ever

When I was young, I remember watching an episode of the television program In Search Of. If you do not remember this program, or are unfamiliar with it, it was an interesting show hosted by Leonard Nimoy where each episode would delve into some sort of mystery or unexplained phenomena. In one episode in particular I remember they were speaking of the Mayan Indians and their calendar that ends abruptly in 2012. They spoke of these people and of their society, and how even though they lived thousands of years ago, many of the things they built and the creations of their society still stand and last today. At some point in the episode, the concept of eternity was brought up. To be honest, I have no idea the specifics of how or why it became a part of the discussion during the program. It has been so long since I actually saw the episode, I cannot remember the specific details. What I do remember was that the episode, and specifically the concept of eternity, has stuck with me ever since, as did the feelings from watching it. And the feelings I took away were nothing more than sheer terror. The thought of eternity scared the daylights out of me.

Now, I need to make sure I clarify that this is a fear of eternity and not death. I think many people confuse the two, and begin to have a fear of death when in reality they fear eternity. I have never, that I can remember, been afraid of death and dying. I am sure when I was younger, and those memories are quite fuzzy as well, like most small children I was afraid of death. Most bedtime rhymes and prayers will instill that fear, with cradles falling and laying down to sleep and praying for God to take your soul if something should happen in your slumber. But that is also, like for most children, nothing more than the fear of the unknown. Once I began to know about death, perhaps not understand it fully or the implications of such, but to know about what it meant, the fear dissipated a bit. Not completely, because when you finally begin to understand death, then we worry that it will happen to us before we have ever done anything of import. But as I have grown older, that fear left me as well and I accepted it as a part of life. When you lose those around you, you become more accepting of the idea that one day your time will come as well.

Eventually, most of us begin to accept the fact that our lives in this plane of existence will at some point come to an end. Whether or not they continue in another plane is a matter of much debate, and depends greatly upon what you believe. That, however, is not a point I would like to tackle today. Perhaps another day, since it is an interesting topic, but not today. But, it is important to know that I do believe in a higher power, and I do believe in an afterlife as well that rewards or punishes you depending upon the life you lead here on Earth. Perhaps this is outmoded thinking, or perhaps I am wrong, I do not know, and more importantly, neither does anyone else. It is all a guessing game with scant evidence to back up either those who believe in another plane of existence or those who believe this is it and nothing more follows, and anyone could be right or wrong with their beliefs and thoughts. Personally, despite no physical evidence of anything more than this life, I believe in a higher power, and an afterlife that can be a paradise. In my own life, I have seen too many things to this point for me to ever question that there is some power greater than us that not only created everything, but helps guide us each day. Some may think I am foolish, others may feel the same way as I, and it does not matter too much either way. Belief in something greater is a personal thing, and while you may not agree with my outlook, I only ask that you respect it. Now, before I actually begin a discussion of the existence of God, Satan, Heaven and Hell, let me get back on topic.

The part of eternity that scared me was not the concept of paradise or hell. I do not have a fear of hell itself. I know that statement itself comes across as incredibly arrogant, but it is not meant that way. I personally try to live a good life, and feel that for the most part I succeed. I work hard to live by the golden rule of treating others as I would like them to treat me. Yes, with some people this is much harder done than said, but usually it comes back to me in many positive ways. And I do my best to be as good of a person that I can to all of those who share a part in my life, no matter how significant. I do not always succeed, and at times this lack of success sticks with me for a long time if I feel I could have done more, or better, or been a better person overall. But I use this feeling to be better the next time, learning from my mistakes and growing as a person.

Now, like most people I have made my mistakes in the past, and I am sure I will make more than a few in the future. Knowing me and my way of fumbling and bumbling through life, I will probably do something stupid before the end of the year. I am human, and we are intrinsically flawed creatures. Perhaps it is in our make up, perhaps it is just our ability to think provides us with too much power and control over life, or maybe it is our inability to overcome our baser instincts that leads us down the wrong paths. I think our flaws our rooted more in the latter. We give in to our desires, be they jealousy, rage, lust, envy or many of the other base emotions we feel in our daily lives. As humans we tend to fall into traps we create for ourselves and find ourselves doing things we know deep down are wrong. But I feel that our ability to be good people is not based solely on how good we are, but also how we right ourselves after going down the wrong paths. Some people lead exemplary lives, some lead horrible ones, and most try to lead good lives, but find ourselves tempted by the wrong things, be them money, power, sex, dangerous stimulants or one of a million other temptations. Our capability to live good lives comes from our ability to not only overcome these temptations, but to correct our paths after succumbing to them.

Many people live their lives like this for the reward of something better in the after life. This is not a bad way to live, and I would hate to discourage anyone from this path. But for me it feels hollow. It feels to me as though you are only doing the work for the reward, when the work should be the reward itself. It should be that you want to live a good life, you want to treat others well, you want to be a good person and do the right things by yourself and others. However, in our world, I suppose I will take what I can get. Even if the good is done by some who are only being bribed by a reward. But considering we live in a world where even the bastions of good have enough corruption and evil behind them to fuel a ring of hell themselves, any good that is done in this world should be applauded, even if it is only done under the pretense of a bribe.

Despite my, and forgive my, potential arrogance, I reiterate that it is not the thought of paradise nor hell that scared me. The part of eternity that scared me was the idea of it never ending. The idea of something that goes on infinitum frightened me. For a long time, I had no idea why, either. In some ways, I am still not sure why the concept scared me. Perhaps part of the reason is based in our society. We have created our world with things beginning and ending. From our own lives, which has a definite beginning and end, our world, our society and our lives are shaped and defined by distinct parameters with a beginning and an end. Our childhoods, schooling, careers, relationships, friendships, material goods, vacations, experiences, and anything else you can think of all have beginnings and endings. With this as a central part of our lives from birth, it is easy to see how the concept of something never ending being very frightening. The idea of no distinct ending, of something not completing and just going on and on would turn my stomach upside down and send a wave of fear through me. I could not explain it, and still cannot without some difficulty. Just the very idea was terrifying to me, and not in a concept of eternal damnation, even thinking about eternity it in the positive light of paradise was scary to me.

Now, I have often just avoided this fear by ignoring the subject altogether. If it came up in conversation, I would tune out until the subject changed. If I heard it being discussed on some sort of entertainment medium, I would quickly change to another channel. If I saw an article, I would pass over it. And if it popped into my head randomly, which happens to all of us, I would rapidly think of anything but the subject just to push the thought out of my head. All of this seems quite irrational now, but it was how I coped with it. I did not want to think of it, nor face it, because it scared me. Not particularly mature, but have not we all acted immature from time to time about one thing or another?

But the other day, I had an epiphany regarding eternity. Or perhaps it was even divine intervention to help me deal with this irrational fear of eternity. The concept of Heaven as I know it is one of paradise, where anything you could want is there for you. Where happiness is the order of the day, and all those you love are there with you. You would have unlimited knowledge, which always appealed to me, serenity and joy. It is a place where you could watch over not only the happenings of Earth, but the entire universe as well, seeing things and wonders you never knew existed or even thought possible. While contemplating this, and struggling with my fear, it occurred to me that eternity could be spent living all the lifetimes I could only dream of living on Earth, or fitting in everything I never will be able to now. I could even relive my own life once or twice, making better decisions and fixing things I messed up, maybe even making different decisions to see where my life might have led. I could be the big football star I was never physically gifted to be, or even a scientist that was able to cure a disease, gaining knowledge and wisdom along the way. I could even live lives as fictional characters. I could be an actual Jedi if I wanted to be. Eternity would be filled with trying new things and living new lives, each time learning something new and experiencing different thoughts, feelings and emotions, each time with all those around me playing different, but significant, roles in each different life. Eternity may not even be long enough to fit them all in once I really began to take off with this train of thought. I now look upon eternity as an adventure in waiting, as it should be, and not something to be dreaded.

I know this is not a novel concept, and that there are probably millions of people that have come to this realization long before me, but it was a breakthrough for me. It took the fear away of what comes next for me after this life. It helped me to move past a long held childhood fear and become more of an adult. And in many ways, it has helped me be a better person now, since I know that after overcoming such a long held fear, I can overcome any other fear that may strike me. And with this knowledge, I know I can make the most of the life I have here, and get a jump start on the one waiting for me there. But there is no need to rush things. As exciting as it now seems to me, I still like floating around on this big blue orb of ours, and hope to for quite some time. But at least I can float around now with one less fear, and is that not something we should all strive for?

The Crystal Ball Week 15

I hate to alarm everyone, but at this point, counting the playoffs, there are only 59 games left in the season. No need to panic, but do try to enjoy and cherish each and every one of them.

Pittsburgh had an excellent, dominating win this week. Congratulations to Fast Willie with a stellar 223 yard performance, setting a new Steeler single game rushing record, and going over 1000 yards for the second season in a row. With three games left, he has a good chance of breaking 1500, if they can show up against the Panthers, Ravens and Bengals.

The whole team looked good, cohesive, driven and physical. Yes, I know the Browns suck so it really is not that good of a measure of how the team is performing. But I will take a win regardless. We can have a good measure over the next three weeks.

They can beat the Panthers, who managed to not show up against a Giants team that had been reeling and who reinvigorated their playoff chances by spanking Carolina. I did not mind, it gave me a good idea what we will be up against next week. Plus, they made me look like a genius by picking the Giants when hardly anyone else did. Thanks Carolina! I hate to ask another favor, but could you start Chris Weinke next week too? If you could go ahead and do that, that would be great.

I know that other than mathematically, their chances to make the playoffs are pretty much out the window. But after watching some of the top teams in the conference over the weekend, I gotta say, I think there might be a bit of realistic hope of a wild card. Some of these teams that should be so good are playing poorly, and losing when they should not. They are not closing out lesser opponents nor grabbing a hold of their own playoff destiny. If Pittsburgh is peaking, and gets a fire in them and runs the table, with some luck they might, and I mean a huge might, have a chance. Of course, that is dependent upon Cincinnati and Jacksonville both losing this weekend to keep the hope alive, and well, I do not see that happening, not both of them.

The Saints also made me look like an uber genius, since almost everyone went with Dallas in the Sunday night game. But I just had a good feeling about this one, especially with Sean Payton facing his old boss. And the Saints did not let me down with a complete dismantling of the Cowboys that could have been much worse. An excellent win by the Saints, and they put themselves in the lead for a first round bye come playoff time. Now, with all that we have seen from New Orleans this season, can we get a moratorium on saying the Saints are for real? I think it was painfully apparent weeks ago that the Saints were for real, that they are actually a good team with a good coach and it is more than luck that is working for them this season. So to all announcers, sportscasters, newspaper columnists, internet columnists, sports show talking heads and anyone else who throws their voice and opinion into the sports world, just stop. We know it, and we have known it for a while now. I am sorry you are just now catching up and realizing that they are for real, and you are excited and want to shout it from the mountaintops, but we already know. We watch the games. Although I must say, and this is not a derogatory comment on the Saints, but after watching them dismantle the Cowboys, I have to ask, how did Pittsburgh beat them? They killed the Cowboys in Texas Stadium, and Dallas is a good team. I’m glad the Steelers worked to assert themselves in that one.

What I am interested in seeing is how Tony Romo reacts to this loss. Up until now, he has had a pretty good run, and has not had a loss of this magnitude. Every quarterback at some point faces this situation, some far more often than others. How good they are is shown in how well they respond the next week. So, now that Dallas/Fort Worth area emergency rooms are filled with patients being treated for broken ankles from jumping off the Romo bandwagon, will Tony respond this week, or wilt? I am very interested in finding out. It will show how ready he really is to be a top flight quarterback in the league.

Another nice note from this game, Owens missed a catch at the beginning of the 4th quarter that he should have had, and the crowd booed him. You cannot ask for much more than that in a game. But, I must ask, can we put an end to the Owens talk once and for all? The man leads the league in dropped passes. How is that for laziness? It also tells me he is trying to kill his team if he won’t put himself out there and do what it takes to push his team to another level. Also, Michael Irvin, quit doing your puff pieces on this guy, pumping him up and looking like you think he is alright. Truthfully, Owens couldn’t carry Irvin’s jock when Irvin was playing. And for all the distraction and craziness that he brought to the NFL in his playing days, Irvin never took a play off. You never heard him say he takes a few off because he is unhappy. No way, that man played every down. Irvin, by buying into this man’s circus, you taint yourself with his childish behavior. You should do one more interview with him, and tell him to grow up, nut up and play football, since that is what he is paid to do.

Speaking of getting killed, what the hell happened in Florida this weekend? Jacksonville annihilates the Colts, completely exposing their porous run defense that we all knew would come back to bite them at the worst time. The Colts gave up 375 yards rushing with an average per carry of 8.9 yards. That is insane. The Colts will probably make the playoffs, but they will not stay there long with defense like that. They have now dropped 3 of their last 4, and that does not bode well. You are supposed to peak going into the playoffs, not tank. But, in all truthfulness, it was not the Colts fault they lost that game. There was absolutely nothing they could have done to win. And when they came out for warm ups, they knew it too. Was it the Jacksonville weather? The raucous fan base? The fact that Pluto is no longer considered a planet? Nope, it was none of those things. There was one simple reason they lost. Jack Del Rio was rocking a suit on the sidelines again. Yes, that’s right folks. Del Rio knew how big this game was, and came out loaded for bear. As soon as the Colts saw that suit, they knew it was all over. You will see, the suit has the power. That brings the suit record this year to a nice 3-1 and more on this later. You think perhaps the uber-intelligent Bill Belichick would be tracking this trend and retire the stupid gray hoodie. Considering how the Pats are playing lately, they need it. And speaking of the Pats…..

They got a nice spanking by Miami this weekend to the tune of 21-0. I mean, yes, Miami has had its share of issues this season that did not help, but despite those problems, it has been established that even with certain players and if certain things had happened, they are not that good of a team to begin with. They have lost to Pittsburgh, and if that is not proof enough, how about this, they also have lost to Green Bay. That’s bad, it’s really bad. And it is especially bad when Joey Harrington outplays the great Tom Brady. Ouch. I do not see them staying all that long in the playoffs either, if that is the kind of performance they put out when they could have clinched the division. Of course I did not mind losing that one in my poll. Hee hee. But of course, Miami is still on track for its late season peak. Last week, they realized they started peaking too early and could possibly compete for a playoff spot, so they lost to keep things honest, then came right out this week and dominated, knowing that a win would do absolutely nothing for their post season hopes. So now, with nothing between them and an early end to the season, they are right on track to win out. That would calculate out to just enough winning to keep hope and spirits up and to keep the Dolphin faithful around for another season. Excellent job there, Nick Saban, maybe you should take that Alabama job.

The Seahawks killed me this week by losing and took me right out of contention for winning the poll. Thanks you jerks. But Green Bay really killed me in trouncing the 49ers. But I suppose I should have seen it coming. I spoke with a friend this weekend, who is a huge Green Bay fan, about a recent trip home where she took in the Green Bay/Jets game. She said their season had gotten so bad that at halftime, the Lambeau crowd actually booed the team. She said she had never seen such a thing, and she is a life long Packers fan. I suppose after something like that, Favre is going to rally the troops to try to turn things around. But maybe there is more power to Green Bay than previously recognized. I mean, they beat Mike Nolan, and he was wearing the suit! How is that even possible! Could Green Bay go on a run to end the season? Maybe the Packer and Favre mystique is not completely gone. They did beat the suit. Oh, how the worm turns.

But I have a question, if the suit is 3-1, and seems to bring a certain cachet to the teams whose coach sports it, why are not more following this trend? I know the mandate is that you can only wear it twice a season, but hey, that is at least one win, and other than a collapse by the 49ers, would have been two guaranteed wins a season. Why are not more guys jumping on this? Plus the comedy effect would be fantastic. Brad Childress would completely morph into a junior college chemistry professor, and who would not pay good money to see Andy Reid in a suit? The NFL needs to rethink their suit policy. It should be mandatory for two games.

Now, the Jets had a pretty good time beating up on the Packers the previous week, but this week, when it really counted, especially for their wild card hopes, they completely crapped the bed at home against the Bills. If they had any hope for that wild card spot, they needed to do so much better than that. What a dismal performance and it was never even close the entire game. And now they have shot their playoff chances right in the foot. Good luck getting to the post season now.

Tell me, how many Houston fans sat around after the game, wondering what they did to deserve this after watching Vince Young, in his Texas homecoming, kill them in overtime to take away a win in their own stadium? How many were sitting there shaking their heads in disbelief wondering, you know, we could have had Reggie Bush, or even better, we could have had Vince Young? How many were staring into the leftover, warm tailgate beer and wondering how dumb is their front office, and will it ever get better? My guess is, all 18 of them were out there. And once again, Vince Young comes through in the clutch. Boy, did Tennessee make the right call there. I am afraid of how good he might be if they surround him with some talent.

How about those Bears! A stellar performance in St. Louis on Monday night was put on display by the Chicago juggernaut. Everyone, including myself, had been deriding Grossman for weeks now, and he finally decided on the national stage to show everyone he does have some skill. I still think he is raw, and prone to making bad decisions, but he looks like he could get the job done. Or perhaps the Rams secondary is just that crappy. Either way, it equals a win. Plus, congratulation goes out to Devin Hester, who set a new NFL record with his 5th and 6th returns for a touchdown this season. I have no idea why anyone even kicks to him anymore. He is like a machine out there, and seems to be able to see holes and paths through the coverage that no one else can. I know you cannot count on special teams scoring in the playoffs, but if I had him on my team, I would chalk up at least 1, maybe two playoff touchdowns. When Da Bears are playing, I’m afraid to move from the TV when they are set to receive the kickoff, for fear of missing something electrifying. I know I cannot be the only one.

The Bengals are collectively the idiot of the week. Deltha O’Neal was arrested this week, bringing their arrest tally for 2006 to a stunning eight players. Eight players off of their 53 man roster were arrested this year, almost unfathomable. If your team was fighting for their playoff lives, would you ever do anything, no matter how small it may be, to jeopardize their chances? I have heard of players wearing the same socks they started wearing at the beginning of a winning streak. Last year Roethlisberger grew a beard because he was afraid if he shaved that they might lose their mojo. Perhaps I need to be thinking of this differently. Perhaps this is their superstition. If they don’t have someone arrested, it could lose their mojo. You know, I was somewhat happy for the people of Cincinnati when the Bengals began showing life again. They have been loyal through many years of ineptitude, and they needed a little sunshine. But to wait all that time for this? It seems like waiting all day for turkey, just to find out it was basted in dumpster water. They are retaining the mantle of being the Bungles, just not your father’s Bungles.

Ok, was anyone watching Football Night In America on Sunday? I need to confirm it with more people; I need to know if what I heard I actually heard. Did Peter King really slip up and say fucking on the air? It sure sounded like it to me. I literally dropped what I was doing and stared at the TV in disbelief. I looked at my girlfriend with wide eyes and I babbled, did we just, and she started laughing and said, yes, he did say it. It was an excellent moment in TV that left me laughing for the rest of the show. I am not surprised he said it, I mean, people flub lines all the time, and he was trying to make a point and moving quickly. What I am surprised about is that with all the nonsense we hear about all the time regarding broadcasting standards and every live show on some sort of broadcast delay that something like that could slip through. One funny thing is that I have heard absolutely nothing about it since. Of course, I am sure a bunch of uptight twits out there immediately began deluging NBC and the FCC with complaints. Hey, all of you, before you pick up the phone, stop, count to ten, and remember two things. One, it was an obvious mistake and the man did not mean to say it. And two, for Pete’s sake it is just a word and it will not bring your world crashing down. Good gravy.

I had a pretty good week, and most of the teams, save Detroit, that I went out on a limb and picked really came through for me. Of course, the ones that should have taken care of business did not. New England, Indianapolis and Seattle all had a chance to clinch their divisions, and all three choked hard. New England choked because they have too many young no names and cannot hold onto a football. Seriously, is it just me or is it starting to look like Tom Brady and a bunch of off the street chumps? Some weeks it works, and others, well, you get shut out by Miami. The Colts choked because they have absolutely no run defense. I am thinking I could ring up about 120 yards of rushing against the Colts right now. And the Seahawks choked because Holmgren keeps insisting on coaching with his hands wrapped around his own throat. Seriously, you got out coached by Denny Green. You cannot tell me that Cardinal team is better than the Seahawks. No, that was just another crappy performance on the sidelines by “Walrus” Holmgren. He does look like a walrus, right? Please tell me it’s not just me. If they all keep this up, I see all three making early playoff exits.

Anyway, I had a pretty good week, although it could have been better. But I’ll take it.

Last Week: 10-6
Season to Date: 119-89

So what do we have in store this week? Can we get a 12 win week? Maybe something more? Perhaps. Plus, this week the NFL Network breaks out the Saturday game. That’s right; games are on for 4 days this week. Mmmmm, football overload. Now, before I drool and ruin my keyboard, let’s kick it.


Thursday

San Francisco at Seattle

The NFLN is serving up yet another tasty match up for us. This whole NFL network experiment is going to tank and tank hard if they do not get better games scheduled for next year. Ok, so who do you go with, a Seattle team that seems to be a shell of itself, or a 49ers team that got shellacked at home against Green Bay? Well, since Nolan cannot wear the suit again, I guess I will go with the extra loud Qwest field crowd. Go 12th man! And by the way, I am being sarcastic.

Seattle over San Francisco


Saturday

Dallas at Atlanta

Oh boy oh boy, the real test for Tony Romo begins here in Atlanta. Now we will really see just exactly what the young quarterback is made of. Atlanta had more trouble than they should have scoring on a really crappy Tampa Bay team, especially since they have more weapons than the Buccaneers can cover. Dallas, well, we all saw it. But I think they are better than that performance. Now, I honestly do not know if they really are, and the Falcons have a lot to play for right now, namely their playoff lives. But something tells me it will be the Cowboys. I cannot see Parcells getting embarrassed two weeks in a row in prime time.

Dallas over Atlanta


Sunday

Cleveland at Baltimore

I thought about this one for a bit, mind you just a bit. Cleveland played really hard against KC and got a win. But then they went into Pittsburgh and got hammered, hard. Now, they have had 11 days to lick their wounds and study up on Baltimore. But the Ravens, well, they really do not have to study that hard to pound on the Browns. And if the backup QB is still starting for Cleveland, then I feel really bad for him. Maybe there is a reason, other than injury, that Charlie Frye was kept out last week and this week. Maybe Romeo really feels he could be something one day, and did not want to risk him getting killed against two ferocious defenses in an obviously lost season. If that is the case, then he is a much better coach than he is given credit. Or, the Browns could just suck. Next week, once seeding is mostly wrapped up, then I will go against the Ravens. Until then, I think they keep charging full bore.

Baltimore over Cleveland


Detroit at Green Bay

Please, I am done with Detroit. It’s a shame that Matt Millen is not. Even if Green Bay had not trounced the 49ers last week, I would still go with the Pack. We all know that at the moment, Lambeau does not hold the same mystique it once did, especially with Favre at the wheel. But do you really think the Lions have anything that can overcome Green Bay at home? Neither do I.

Green Bay over Detroit


Houston at New England

So who do you go with on this game, a Houston team that could not stop Vince Young, or a New England team that could not stop Joey Harrington? Tough call. Yeah, the Patriots do not look like their usual dominating selves, and yes they have been less than stellar at home this year, but they are still the Patriots, or at least a reasonable facsimile. And I think more importantly in this game, the Texans are still the Texans.

New England over Houston


Jacksonville at Tennessee

This is a huge game for Jacksonville, as they will need the win to keep pace for one of the wild card spot. This game means nothing to the Titans but pride, since in their previous meeting earlier this year the Jags crushed them in Jacksonville. The Jaguars flexed their running game muscle last week, running rampant over the Colts. But their passing game left a bit to be desired. Tennessee is learning to flex both, and doing it fairly well. Plus, they have been hot, winning their last four games, although the last two came down to a last second field goal and overtime. I am wondering which Jaguar team will show up, the one that lost twice to Houston, or the one that humiliated Indianapolis. I am going out on a limb here, and staying with the hot hand of Vince Young to exact some revenge and play spoiler.

Tennessee over Jacksonville


Miami at Buffalo

We have here two teams that are going nowhere, but showing some life. Miami is doing their late season spike, just to keep fans titillated for next year. Buffalo, well, I am not sure exactly what to make of them. They have been playing very strong, but very much under the radar. I am not completely sold on Joey Harrington just yet. Yes, he has shown me a lot more than he did in Detroit, where I think he got a raw deal playing for a crappy team. But, can he win big on the road against a division opponent? This is a tough one, but I think I am going to go with the home team this time. Miami may have some trouble with that cold Buffalo weather. Hey, I need some reason to justify it.

Buffalo over Miami


N.Y. Jets at Minnesota

So the Jets threw their post season hopes away with a bad loss to Buffalo last week, and Minnesota showed some life against Detroit, although they had some trouble finishing off the game. So who do you go with? Minnesota has been off and on all season, trying to come together under a rookie head coach and an aging quarterback. The Jets have a rookie head coach, but have been playing over their heads. This is a tough one, not a compelling one, though. I think I am going to go AFC here, they are the better conference.

N.Y. Jets over Minnesota


Pittsburgh at Carolina

Carolina is inconsistent to begin with, and may have to go once again with Chris Weinke at the controls. Pittsburgh is the winner of four of their last five games, and rolling. Now, even if I was not extremely biased, I would still have to go with the hot hand. Carolina is watching their playoff hopes swirl down the drain. So much for preseason Super Bowl picks. Hey, maybe they can get together with Miami in the off season and play the Super Bust Bowl, you know, so all those sportswriters and talking heads that picked both of them to go to the big game can actually see them face off and feel better about themselves.

Pittsburgh over Carolina


Tampa Bay at Chicago

Oh please, like this is even an intriguing match up. I doubt even Tampa Bay thinks they can win this one. The only chance they have is if Da Bears decide that now that they have things pretty much wrapped up, they can let off the gas. But somehow, I doubt Lovie will let them. The offense still needs some work, and the defense gave up too many points last week. Plus, if they lost in December in Chicago, Ditka would be real mad.

Chicago over Tampa Bay


Washington at New Orleans

You know, I do not care which version of the under achieving Redskins show up, the ones that suck or the ones that play tough, because it will not matter. New Orleans is steam rolling right now, and I cannot see them losing to this crappy squad at home. Sure, they could have a huge let down game, and sure, they could be taking their foot off the gas since they are close to locking things up, but I do not see this happening. What I do see happening is Sean Payton topping another hall of fame coach for the second week in a row.

New Orleans over Washington


Denver at Arizona

Ok, so Denver has decided to throw away their season. I am not sure why, but I guessed they wanted another high draft pick. Arizona, however, has suddenly realized the season is going on right now, and decided to play. Now, I know that was not the best the Seahawks could give last week, but they still beat them. And since Denver is playing anything but their best right now, it is time to be bold or go home. In the spirit of boldness, and breaking my rule of picking the Cardinals under any circumstances, here goes.

Arizona over Denver


Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants

Wow, what a game this is going to be, division rivals fighting for wild card spots in the last month of the season. Right now, both of them have the inside track on both wild card spots, with the Giants holding an edge over Philadelphia with a win against them earlier in the season. The Giants finally ended their skid last week, knocking out a season saving win against Carolina. Philadelphia is on a two game roll behind a rejuvenated Jeff Garcia leading them back into contention. Plus, after McNabb went down, everyone, including myself, pretty much wrote Philadelphia off. So they have been quietly putting their season back together. The Giants are starting to get back some of their walking wounded, but Strahan is still out. Since the road team won last time, and Philly has been jelling nicely outside the limelight, I will go against the grain and pick the Eagles. Now Andy, don’t let me down.

Philadelphia over N.Y. Giants


St. Louis at Oakland

Ugh, what a crapfest this game is going to be. I think the NFL may black this one out just on the grounds that if anyone watches it, it could be considered cruel and unusual punishment. So, the question is, which team has more players quitting on them this week? I guess I have to pick one, huh. Ok, well, since St. Louis showed they can score on a good defense, and that Oakland would only have one win if it weren’t for Pittsburgh giving them an early Christmas present, I think it is painfully obvious who will win this one. The emphasis, as with all Oakland games, is on painful.

St. Louis over Oakland


Kansas City at San Diego

Another week, another division opponent at home for the Chargers to trounce. You know what is really annoying about San Diego? Whenever they score at home, they play this song called the San Diego Super Chargers that sounds like it originated in the Dan Fouts era. It is a catchy little ditty, and would probably be a lot of fun if you were a Chargers fan. But if you are not, hearing that sucker 4-5 times a game is like scratching nails across a chalkboard right next to your ear for three hours. Good times indeed. This week, they face a Kansas City team that could not even count on the mystique of Arrowhead to close out the Ravens. Sure, Larry Johnson is having another stellar year, but it will not save their season. Plus, he created such bad karma for the team with his crap about how it is better to play for a black coach since they understand the black player and where they come from. Hey, Larry, just to remind you, you grew up in State College, Pennsylvania! You grew up in a town that exists because of the presence of Penn State. 10 minutes outside of the town, in all directions, is nothing but farmland. You are so far from the hood, it is not even funny. I have no idea why or where he is trying to get street cred, but since I lived in State College for over six years, I can tell you this, he’ll get none coming from there. Plus, if you ask me, it is insulting to other black players that someone who grew up in comfy suburbia says these absurd things, and marginalizes those who really did struggle to come from poverty and dangerous urban conditions, broke through those barriers and made something of themselves. Ugh, what a jerk.

San Diego over Kansas City


Monday

Cincinnati at Indianapolis

This is actually an intriguing game between two teams on completely different trajectories. The Bengals have hit cruise mode with their offense kicking things up to levels of last year, and their defense suddenly stiffening up. The Colts, on the other hand, have found their normally high powered offense sputtering and their defense almost nonexistent. But, they are back in the safe confines of the RCA Dome this week, right? That means something, right? Yes, it does. It also means the Bengals want revenge for losing to the Colts last year on their own field. Personally, I really have some distaste for both teams. I have disliked the Colts since they ran from Baltimore in the dark of night, and as for the Bungles, well, I never liked them. So, personal feelings aside, who will win? Marvin Lewis is a good coach, and very observant. And I have a feeling he watched very closely what Jacksonville did last week, and has been prepping Rudi Johnson all week for a very big game.

Cincinnati over Indianapolis

The Crystal Ball Week 14

I thought long and hard about what I wrote last week, with me coming down so hard on my team and their coach. I even spoke to a few others, big Steelers fans themselves, about it. Some said the team needed it, other said they could never write bad things about the team. I was conflicted, but ultimately, it was not so much for them, but for me. I felt it cathartic to get all of those negative feelings out about the team. Sure they stink this year, but that does not change how much I like them. They stunk in 2003, but I still dug watching the Tommy Maddox air show. And even each year they lost the AFC championship game, I always came back the next season, believing that this year will be the year. It finally paid off last year, didn’t it? See, it always pays to believe. Plus, who knows. Maybe a few of the players are blog addicts, found this one and got inspired. Now that is a pipe dream.

I watched my DVD of the 2005 season again recently, remembering all the good times from last year, all the good feelings and all the joy it brought to Steeler fans everywhere. Before the season I put the DVDs away, I did not want to look back with another season here. I wanted to focus on a new season, a new chance and new opportunities, not old memories. But with this season winding down, and no great memories coming from it, I wanted to be inspired, to remember why I was a fan, and why I continue to watch through so much thin rather than thick. And as I watched, I remembered. Because that one time when everything comes together just right, and the team rolls right to the top, all those years of dashed hopes and short seasons seem to melt away with that one glorious moment when your team is on top. You can say, yes, that is my team, and they are number one, all others are number two or lower. And it feels great. I can only imagine how good it must feel to be a part of it. Perhaps one day I may know, but in the meantime, I will take comfort in the joy of being a fan, and remember those good times when doubts creep in when it seems that they cannot win a game or even get a first down.

But this week, well, what do you know, a certain team won a certain game. My Steelers finally showed some of that heart I knew was in there, yet began to doubt. Why cannot they play like that every week? It was not flashy or overly exciting, but they did what they had to do. They were efficient, methodical and physical. The offensive line had the exact opposite game from the previous week; they were strong, punishing and kept Ben in business. The running game was not spectacular, but it did enough to get the job done. It was nothing anyone would write home about except for one, important fact, it was a win, and that is all I wanted and ever want. Brady can have his GQ covers and Peyton can have his records, I just want wins, and this week those Steelers gave me one, and I thank them kindly.

Tampa Bay cheaped out with a lame field goal as time expired to avoid the shut out. A very bush league move by Gruden, and he knows it too. I hope that after the season, the Bucs management sees that game for what it was and shows Gruden that it should have been a shut out, and he played for the meaningless points. Gruden has shown he may be more over rated than previously thought. He has led this team, after winning the Super Bowl in 2002, to one winning season, completely dismantled a winner and has done nothing but complained relentlessly about it. He has been setting the bar low all season by complaining about their schedule since it was first revealed, and he and the team have lived up to those low expectations. His worst complaint, and one of the dumbest complaints I have ever heard, is he commented that it was poor management by the Buccaneers for spending 8 million dollars and four draft picks, two first rounders and two second rounders, to acquire him from Oakland. Talk about biting the hand that feeds you. I know he is trying to shift blame and make excuses so he can remain employed, but that may be going too far. The big bosses do not want excuses, they want wins. And while they will tolerate a certain level of ineptness and excuses, they certainly will not when that finger of blame is being pointed at them. Now, his point was that it is hard to keep a team loaded with talent with diminished resources, and it is correct. But the point of acquiring him was to lead the team, no matter the personnel, to a winning record and ultimately a championship. What people tend to forget with Gruden is he left Oakland probably knowing that the Raiders went as far as they could and was about to start sinking soon. And I think he was probably more surprised than most that they faced each other in the Super Bowl. And he won that Super Bowl with Tony Dungy’s team, not John Gruden’s. Once Gruden started putting his stamp on the team, it fell apart and fast. Now, they are mired in losing, and he is just trying to shift the blame away from where it belongs, squarely on his shoulders.

Anyway, Pittsburgh has a short week this week, and that could be detrimental to having a healthy roster against the Browns. Injuries to Cedrick Wilson and Ryan Clark could hurt, and since Cowher has already listed them as out for Thursday night, here is hoping they can get healthy for Carolina on the 17th. At least the team does not have to travel, with the game being played in Pittsburgh. But they finally made a few things happen off the field too. Willie Reid had his season come to an end by being placed on injured reserve, allowing them to re-sign receiver Lee Mays. And they also did something about the never used Duce Staley, cutting the back to create roster space. In his place they signed Chidi Iwuoma, whom they should have never cut in the first place. Iwuoma will be a help in the depleted secondary, as well as bring a spark to the special team units. Hopefully, this will plug some holes until a few guys get better.

Now a few other things, but not many, since I want to get right to the games this week.

Who in their right mind would want to play the Tennessee Titans right now? They have won 5 of their last 6 games, and Vince Young is blowing up all previous expectations. As a starter, he is 5-4, and if this was an NFC team, I would say they would have playoff aspirations. This is one of the most dangerous teams right now in the NFL. Part of me just KNEW I should have picked them over the Colts. Ahhhh, shoulda coulda woulda.

I guess the Jay Cutler era did not get off to the banner start for which Shanahan was hoping. I cannot say I am totally surprised, since throwing a rookie quarterback into the line up against a quality team late in the season in primetime is not necessarily the best way to win games. Sure, his potential is much higher than Plummer’s, but does he have what it takes to win now? From what I saw, he is not yet ready. Shamefully, the best pass I saw all night was the flick pass that Plummer tossed to Elam on the fake kick attempt. And by the way, that was a stupid move. Why would you risk unnecessary injury to your kicker with a pointless play like that? I wonder if Shanahan’s brain has frozen over.

How far will the Giants fall? At least they did not look pathetic last week, Dallas just looked better. But in a must win division game, that was not a good performance. If they have any hope of making it to the playoffs, they need to play much better than that. On the other side of the field, how happy did Parcells look over his choice to sign Gramatica? He looked like Ralphie after he opened up the Red Rider.

And speaking of the NFC, how lame is this conference? Do you realize there are only 4 teams in the entire conference with a winning record? 4. that is just sad. And 4 teams are tied for the 2 wild card spots with identical 6-6 records. I know there is still a quarter of the season left, but that is kind of pathetic. I see another AFC Super Bowl winner this year.

Bob Costas is the idiot of the week. The team was interviewing Chad Johnson on Football Night in America, during halftime of the Sunday night game. Bob asked him about Saints head coach Sean Payton getting Chad tickets to the Bengals/Saints game for some friends and family. Payton had said he got him the tickets no problem, but he was still waiting to be paid for them. Costas found this to be an amusing little story, and throws it to Chad, wanting to know if he will pay Payton. First, what kind of question is that? It seemed odd to me and to be implying Johnson is some sort of cheapskate who welches on his debts. Second, Chad responded that of course he would pay the coach, and Costas did not hear his response, since he was still babbling away, and then there was dead air, during which Costas makes some remark about silence from the normally talkative Chad Johnson. Chad reiterates his response, and the interview wraps up. Afterwards, Costas makes another stupid comment saying he hopes Chad will pay or something of the sort, completely ignoring the fact that Johnson answered that he would repay Payton TWICE. Collinsworth was going to win, since first he asked a stupid question of why Chad, who is normally so gregarious and outgoing, has been so serious of late. Meanwhile, while he was asking the question he had this dopey grin on his face. You know why Cris, because his team is fighting to make the playoffs, and if Chad has shown us one thing, other than his excellent play, is that he is a team first guy and will always try to push the team more than promote himself. His team needs him at the top of his game and concentrating on reeling off wins, not coming up with celebrations. Chad knows this and is working hard to make it happen, and has been delivering. What a dumb question. Scratch that, they are both idiots

SI’s sportsman of the year for 2006 was selected, and Dwayne Wade was their choice. I read through the reactions of readers to the choice. Some were in agreement, some in disagreement, and some were downright venomous against the choice. I have no issues with the choice of Wade as the Sportsman of the year. He is a good choice, a great player who has shown he can improve his game when the stakes are at the highest. Many of the other candidates mentioned, Steve Nash, Tiger Woods, Roger Federer, Tony Dungy, Jim Leyland, the Detroit Tigers, Drew Brees and the entire Saints team, all would have been equally compelling choices. However, I would like to put forth a choice that has been overlooked, mostly because his sporting days are over.

Jerome Bettis would have been an excellent choice for sportsman of the year. His greatest contributions were overlooked, since most of them happened after the 2005 sportsman was selected. At the start of Pittsburgh's run, he put the team on his back and gave them his last 100 yard game. After that, he was the on field role player he had become and the off the field leader he always had been. Part tank, part teacher, part cheerleader, part general and part mentor, he became the rallying point for a team and a city on a mission. His presence alone helped spur an entire team to reach greater heights. His mere absence this year has shown all of us how much he is truly missed in that locker room.

Plus, part of being a sportsman is not merely your on the field accomplishments, but also your off the field achievements. Bettis has been a fixture in the NFL, Pittsburgh and all over with his various charity work, including his the Bus Stops Here Foundation, which has been reaching out and helping underprivileged children since 1997.

He is a man who came from humble beginnings, and never forgot those who helped him achieve all that he has in life. He never let those who said he could not make it get him down. He knew he would be something. For these reasons and many more, I would have used my vote, if given one, to select Jerome Bettis.

I would like to send out my condolences to Jerome and the entire Bettis family on the loss of their patriarch, Johnnie. The elder Bettis passed away, leaving an unfillable void in many lives. I hope you find some peace Jerome, and know that we are thinking of you.

Also, here is hoping Al Wilson has a full recovery after a frightening collision with a teammate during the Broncos/Seahawks game on Sunday night. Football is a violent game, and for all the pounding and hits these men take and deliver, it is a testament to their training and conditioning that serious injuries like Wilson’s are as rare as they are. Because of that, we sometimes forget that these men have a very dangerous profession and risk their lives on each play. But it is not until we see a scary injury like Wilson’s that we are reminded of how dangerous it really is on that field.

See, this is why I never pick Oakland. The one time I do it, and see where it gets me? Creamed, that’s where. Stupid Raiders. Besides that, I got KILLED this week.

Last Week: 8-8
Season to Date: 109-83

That is nothing to be proud of, or even impressed by. How about we start this week out right?


Thursday

Cleveland at Pittsburgh

The champs back in primetime, in a game only Cleveland or Pittsburgh fans will want to watch! Looks like the NFL Network is not getting the exciting games they had hoped for in order to force Time Warner and Comcast to put them in their cable packages. Oh well, maybe next year. This should be a good one, though, since both are coming off wins and Pittsburgh will be playing for their infinitesimally small playoff hopes. Plus, Cleveland will be feeling their oats after topping KC last week and desperately wants to breaks Pittsburgh’s current 6 game winning streak against them. Yeah, the champs are reeling a bit this season, but not this week.

Pittsburgh over Cleveland


Sunday

Atlanta at Tampa Bay

Is there life in Atlanta? Maybe, but I think Vick and his passing last week is more the exception than the rule. Until I see him doing stuff like that every week, I am not buying into him being the next great evolution in quarterbacks. Vince Young looks more like the next evolution than Vick. But Tampa Bay really sucks this year, and someone has to win.

Atlanta over Tampa Bay


Baltimore at Kansas City

How bad did the Ravens offense look against the Bengals? Horrid, which is how they looked for years until this year. Their defense did well, holding the high powered Bengals to 13 points, but suffered the same fate their defense always has, a great defensive performance submarined by a lousy offensive showing. But was this an aberration, or a sign of things to come, that is the real question. Meanwhile, in a must win game for the edge in the wild card race, Kansas City crapped the bed and blew a game they were winning handily in Cleveland. So, we have two teams fighting for the playoffs and positioning, and both come up short. Who goes the extra mile this week? Baltimore has had an extra few days off to tweak things, and more importantly, watch KC and see exactly how the Browns pulled off the upset. Yes, the game is in Kansas City, but for some reason, I do not think, for once, that will make all that big of a difference.

Baltimore over Kansas City


Indianapolis at Jacksonville

Jacksonville managed to keep its playoff hopes, no matter how slim, alive with a win over the Dolphins. The Colts lost on a last second 60 yard field goal, although they had trouble with the Titans and their running game all day long. However, they have not locked anything up yet, and I do not see them letting off the gas just yet. Nor do I see them losing two in a row.

Indianapolis over Jacksonville


Minnesota at Detroit

Will anyone be watching this game? Other than team owners and maybe a few people around Detroit who find themselves out and about on a Sunday afternoon and bored to tears for something to do. I doubt it. Detroit blew a totally winnable game last week in New England. Will they do it again at home against a sinking Viking team? Well, here is hoping they play against form.

Detroit over Minnesota


New England at Miami

I thought this might be an intriguing match up, until Miami reverted to form last weekend against Jacksonville. If they had won, I might have picked them this week, since they would be fighting for a playoff spot. Since they did not, I have trouble seeing them beating a rolling Patriots team eyeing a chance at a first round bye.

New England at Miami


N.Y. Giants at Carolina

So which team to go with, the Panthers who have zero consistency, or the Giants who are reeling after 4 straight losses? Tough call indeed. You know what? Let’s go out on a limb with this one. I have a feeling that the Giants are gonna break out of that slump this week. And if I am wrong, I can blame it on indigestion.

N.Y. Giants over Carolina


Oakland at Cincinnati

Cincinnati is coming on strong, fighting to get a playoff spot, and possibly even catch Baltimore in the division, if they get a few breaks. Plus, in case you just joined us, allow me to reiterate something. I will never pick Oakland again this season. Taking that knowledge in hand, who do you think?

Cincinnati over Oakland


Philadelphia at Washington

So, the Eagles have not given up yet on the season? Damn good for them they play in the NFC; they may be able to make a playoff season of this yet. After an impressive win against Carolina, now they take on a division foe in the Redskins. Washington has been maddeningly inconsistent and underachieving all season. Last week, they could not even hold a lead at home against the also maddeningly inconsistent Falcons. The Eagles have their backs against the wall, and are fighting. The Redskins, they just seem to be looking forward to some time off.

Philadelphia over Washington


Tennessee at Houston

At the beginning of the season, this looked like a stinker game. It still does, but with an opportunity to see the electrifying Vince Young and the steamrolling Titans. I know the Texans probably feel pretty good with a win last week, but I doubt it will last long. There is a big difference between beating Oakland and beating Indianapolis.

Tennessee over Houston


Green Bay at San Francisco

San Francisco seems to be on the upswing, with some impressive wins and tough play all season. Although after getting spanked by the Saints, they realize they have a long way yet to go. This week, however, Frank Gore will have a field day with the Green Bay defense, since it still has a long way to go as well. Although I think A.J. Hawk will be the keystone of that defense for years to come. Unfortunately, Brett still tries to do things he can no longer do, and until he realizes that and stops taking too many crazy chances, they will not go far.

San Francisco over Green Bay


Seattle at Arizona

Is it just me, or does Hasselbeck look not quite right in the pocket? He just seems like he is not back in the groove of things. Perhaps after some more game time, he will be alright, but if I were a Seahawks fan, I would be hoping that time comes sooner rather than later. Arizona is looking like some lucky dogs for getting Leinart in the draft, but if they do not get him a decent offensive line in the off season, games like last week will be few and far between.

Seattle over Arizona


Buffalo at N.Y. Jets

Buffalo is playing some tough football, against some very tough opponents. If they stay on course, I do not think it will be long before we start seeing the Bills again at the top of the AFC East. The problem right now is they do not have all the weapons they need, and the jury is still out on whether or not Losman is the answer at quarterback. The Jets, well, they just keep finding new ways to win, and are fighting their way into the playoff picture. They are not done yet, and may decide the picture one way or another before this season is over.

N.Y. Jets over Buffalo


Denver at San Diego

I feel bad for Jay Cutler. He has the potential to be a really good quarterback. Who knows, maybe in two or three years, hardly anyone will even remember his first game as a pro. But what a hellacious way to start a career, having to face the NFC champions in your first game followed by one of the toughest and hottest teams in the AFC the next. I doubt those rookie jitters are going to get any better once Steroid Boy, I mean Shawne Merriman, comes charging across that line. Denver may be letting their season slip away before their very eyes. I bet Tomlinson tacks on a few more touchdowns too, just for good measure.

San Diego over Denver


New Orleans at Dallas

Now this is a great match up for Sunday Night. Dallas is rolling with Tony Romo under center, and looks as though they have finally found a permanent replacement for Troy Aikman. The Saints are in uncharted territory, leading their division and on target for a playoff spot and perhaps even a first round bye. So who wins this game? Who has more on the line? Who has more desire to win? Me? I am picking the team with the sublime seventh round wide receiver, and not the one with the overpaid, over hyped wide receiver that leads the league in dropped passes.

New Orleans over Dallas


Monday

Chicago at St. Louis

What is the story with Rex Grossman? This guy looked like the 1985 Jim McMahon to start the season, now he looks like an end of his career collecting a ring backing up Brett Favre Jim McMahon. If he does not find his groove, this could hurt them come playoff time. But for now, their defense and special teams are keeping them on top. St. Louis has obviously given up on their season, and players are publicly calling each other out as quitting on the team and infighting are tearing them apart. I cannot with any confidence to pick them, even at home.

Chicago over St. Louis