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Thank you and welcome back to:

The Rant

Perfection

    Was that the sweetest Super Bowl ever, or what? Everyone tuned in expecting to witness the ‘Perfect Pats’ go an unprecedented 19-0. What we got was perfection all right, it just wasn’t the perfection we were expecting. This was way better. Like the hit television show, ‘My Name is Earl’, this was Karma working its special magic like a symphony weaving its way to a final dramatic crescendo. The ‘Perfect’ ending shall we say.

    The Pats thought it was over when Brady, facing the ferocious Giant pass rush, coolly drove the Pats down the field to retake the lead, at 14-10, with 2:42 to play. Junior Seau and Teddy Bruschi were making man love on the sidelines, not that there’s anything wrong with that, and 19-0 was within their grasp. However, as the old saying goes, ‘Not so fast my friend’.

    Enter our hero, Earl, doh, I mean Eli Manning. Eli’s been badmouthed since the Giants traded for him almost 4 years ago. Jeremy Shockey said look at me, Tiki Barber said Eli wasn’t a leader and the New York fans wouldn’t cut him any slack, despite the fact he’s a mere babe as a QB. Eli didn’t complain he didn’t badmouth anyone; he just went about his business, learning his craft. Its amazing how, when the me guys left, Eli stepped up and ditto for Coach Tom Coughlin. Looking back you could see the Karma working.

    The Giants were 83 yards away from pay dirt, with 2:42 to play and Eli calmly orchestrated a masterpiece. The topper was his Houdini act, escaping the grasp of several Patriots and delivering a strike to WR David Tyree who made a spectacular catch at the 13 yard line. Then Eli found Plaxico Burress, who predicted victory early in the week, alone in the corner of the end zone for the go-ahead score, 17-14, with a mere 35 seconds to play. Karma Baby, now somebody get a hose for Bruschi and Seau.

    Now let me explain, in the wake of the Buffalo Bills, 56-10, Sunday Night loss to the New England Patriots on Nov. 18, 2007, I wrote a column in this space entitled, ‘Hop on the Karma Train’. Here’s an excerpt:

    “The fact that really burns my onions is the Pats running up the score. Bill Belichick, a.k.a. ‘The Hoodie’ is an arrogant, cheating, lowlife adulterer and his actions will come back to haunt him. Twice in the late going, while deep in Buffalo territory, he decided to go for it on 4^th down instead of kicking a gimmie field goal. I know it’s the Bills job to stop them, but there’s a thing called ‘class’ in this world and The Hoodie doesn’t have any.”

    “Well my friends take solace in the fact that, sooner or later, The Hoodie is going to get his. He’s standing smack dab in the middle of a set of railroad tracks and the Karma Train is coming. It may not happen this year, it may not happen this decade, but he’ll get his and I hope I’m there to witness the carnage.”

    “Sour grapes? Maybe, but I’m not the only one beginning to hate The Hoodie and by the end of the year, I’m sure there will be many more joining me on the Karma Train. Wooo-Wooo.”

    Wooo-Wooo indeed, I should’ve been a psychic. You couldn’t write a better script. I’m glad I was there to witness The Hoodie get knocked off his perch. It was sweet and profitable.

    As Cisifus was doomed by the Gods, to roll his boulder to the top of the hill, the Hoodie diligently did the same. He didn’t care who the boulder ran over or what he had to do to get it there. Belittle, berate, lie, cheat, steal, it didn’t matter as long as he got that boulder to the top. He pushed and he pushed, up that hill for 18 wins, 59 minutes and 25 seconds only to reach his predetermined fate, 35 seconds short of utopia.

    The Hoodie then showed his true colors storming off the field, like a little baby, before the game was completed, leaving his minions to clean up his mess. What a lowlife, no respect for his team, no respect for the opposition, no respect for the fans. Typical, like a spoiled little brat, he took his boulder and went home.

    To be that close and have the rug pulled out from underneath, it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. I always knew there was a God, now I know he has a sense of humor too. The Perfect ending to Belichick’s Perfect season. Karma Baby, Ben

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January 29, 2008

Eli - Backdoor Man?

    Sorry to ‘Crank Up the Hype’ on you last week, but I wasn’t ready to give you my selection on Super Bowl XLII. The truth is, this has been a very difficult game to handicap and I wanted to digest as much information as possible before I made my selection. Now, I’m ready.

    As you all know, the line is presently New England -12 points so, not only do you have to decide if the Pats will win, but also if they’ll cover. The best way I could think of to help me make my decision was to review the full replay of the Pats, 38-35, Week 17, win over the Giants. What better way could there be to see how these 2 opponents match up?

    In that December 29 contest, the Giants got out to an early lead. The Pats then rallied back, but the G-Men regained the lead at halftime, 21-16, on a 2-minute drill. That drive was very telling; Eli was calm, cool, collected and did a masterful job. The other observation I made was the Giant pass rush got to Tom Brady and knocked him down several times. I know Brady is the best in the business, but no QB likes to get hit.

    In the second half, the Giants took their first possession to the house and opened up a 12-point lead about 5 minutes into the 3^rd quarter. The Patriots then began to exert their will. Brady began making quicker reads, getting rid of the ball before the Giant rush could get to him. That tactic worked to perfection as the Pats scored 3 straight TD’s. On the flip side, to combat Eli Manning, the Pats brought a little more heat, forcing an interception. That interception led to New England’s final TD and a 38-28 lead with 4:36 left on the clock.

    The game was not over yet as Manning, facing a fierce Patriot pass rush, methodically drove the G-Men down the field. They hit pay dirt, with 1:04 left on the clock, bringing the Giants within 3 points. That was still enough time for the on-sides kick but the Patriots recovered and ran out the clock.

    The stats told the story as neither team could run the ball very well, but the Pats got the sole turnover, held a 100-yard passing advantage and a very telling 12 extra minutes in time of possession.

    So, what does this all tell us? First, it’s obvious the Patriots are the better overall team and, barring a rash of unforeseen turnovers or a major injury, New England will win the game and rewrite history at 19-0.

    Second, we get down to the more important question; will the Pats cover the spread? This is where it gets a little dicey, 12 points is a huge number and the Pats, although winning, are only 1-7 against the spread down the stretch. The Giants, on the other hand, are 7-1 against the spread and proven road warriors, winning 10 in a row, including 3 playoff games. The first place I always look for an answer is my power rating. It has been phenomenal in the playoffs, going 5-1 against the spread this year and a strong 31-17 over the last 9. I have the Patriots at -8, that’s a full 4 points in the Giants favor.

    So, this is my story and I’m sticking to it, I see a closely fought game in the 1^st half. Neither team will be able to establish their running game and Giant defensive guru, Steve Spagnoulo, will devise a plan to limit speedster Randy Moss. The game will then turn into a Brady v Eli affair. Although Eli has been stellar, Brady will slowly gain the upper hand, dinking and dunking to Wes Welker and company, giving the Patriots a modest lead at halftime.

    In the second half, after the teams adjust their game plans, it will be more of the same. Brady will methodically move the Pats down the field and New England will gain a comfortable lead midway through the 4^th quarter, approximately 13-17 points. That’s where Eli comes in and calmly takes the G-Men down the field slipping them in the backdoor. The Pats regain the ball and are content to run out the clock. Everybody’s happy, the Pats go 19-0, the Giants make a game of it and Benny goes home with a big smile on his face because the G-Men cover the 12 points.

    Now a word of caution, although this is the Super Bowl and the biggest game of the year, it doesn’t have to be your biggest wager of the year. This scenario all hinges on Eli taking care of the ball and not making any turnovers. If the Giants lose the turnover battle, this game could just as easily turn into a rout. The Pats are that good. The bottom line here is, make a small wager and enjoy the game. Thanks, Ben

    If you would like to see my predicted final score, including my OVER/UNDER selection, go to my website, www.benspicks.com and click FREE selection.

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Crank Up the ‘Hype’

    Well here we go again, less than 2 weeks until kickoff of Super Bowl XLII, that’s #42 for you Non-Romans, and the Hype Machine is already humming.

    With the surprising New York Giants facing the undefeated New England Patriots, in two of the biggest media centers in the country, one can only imagine the nonsense that will bombard our senses.

    Boston v New York, Beantown v The Big Apple, Brady v Eli, Beli-cheat v the kinder gentler Tom Coughlin, and on and on. Then don’t forget the inane wagers we’ll have to hear about, Governor v Governor, Mayor v Mayor, Dog Catcher v Dog Catcher. Then we’ll have to be subjected to everyone’s selection, every News Anchor, sports reporter and barber, not Tiki I hope, they can find. As if they know what they’re talking about.

    Enough already, stop selling the hype. This is not a photo opportunity, it’s not a beauty pageant, it’s a football game. So, let’s tune out all the bull and talk some football.

    First off, I don’t think anyone in his right mind would’ve predicted the Giants could ever get this far, but they deserve to be here. The G-Men have made an improbable run, winning 3 road games as a Wildcard and proving they are the class of the NFC. Big Blue first traveled to Florida and beat warm weather Tampa, 24-14. Then, after losing to their archrivals, the Cowboys, twice, the Giants went to Big D and sent Tony Rom-eo on a permanent vacation with Jessica Simple-ton, 21-17. Now, as if that wasn’t sweet enough, New York, a big 8-point dog, mushed their way through frozen Lambeau Field and won the Iditarod, in overtime, stunning the Packers, 23-20. This run proves the Giants deserve a rematch with the mighty Pats.

    The Patriots, on the other hand, are like a finely tuned machine. Methodically dismissing the overmatched Jaguars, and the injured Chargers, like a tank going over a speed bump.

    Since the first week of the season, amid all that video taping crap, all we’ve heard about is the undefeated Pats. 5-0, 6-0, 7-0, yada, yada, yada. Only one NFL team, the 1972, 17-0, Miami Dolphins, has ever gone undefeated and no one has ever gone 19-0. Well, now here the Pats sit, 18-0 and on the doorstep of history. I sure hope Don Shula didn’t pay full price for that champagne.

    How do they do it? How do they blow teams out, win the close ones and seemingly get every break. The answer is simple my friends, the Patriots are smart, resourceful and can change like a chameleon. On defense, they can play the 3-4 or 4-3, so either way they slow you down to a crawl, especially in the Red Zone. On offense, Brady can throw the ball deep and light you up with speedster Randy Moss. If you double cover Moss, Brady will dink and dunk you all the way down the field with WR Wes Welker, TE Ben Watson and RB Kevin Faulk. If its bad weather, or keep away time, its 3 tight ends and RB Laurence Maroney coming at you like a bulldozer. Pick your poison, but the bottom line is, you’re going to lose. Everyone has so far.

    The Pats are good and the opening line tells you so at New England -14. The public has now bet it down to -12 in the early going. It shouldn’t move more that 1 point in either direction. Now for that practical question about Super Sunday and it comes in 3 parts. One, will the Pats just run away with it and cover the almost 2TD’s? Two, do the Giants have enough steam to come within 10 or so points of the Pats? Three, can the G-Men actually pull off the improbable and make an omelet out of that 18-0 goose egg?

    Last year, in this space, I correctly predicted the Colts would cover the huge spread against the Bears in Super Bowl XLI. Not to brag, but I even predicted Bears QB, Rex Grossman, would throw 2 interceptions in the second half and BINGO, that was sweet. (If you wish to read last years complete write-up go to, www.benspicks.com.)

    So, you may ask, who’s it going to be this year Ben? Who’s going to cover the spread? Funny thing, I don’t know yet, I’ve only begun to scratch the surface. There are stats to read, numbers to crunch and scenarios to contemplate. So, the truth is, all you’ve read is just ‘hype’ for next week’s column. GOT-YA!

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Stop the Insanity

    Twenty-Five days, twenty-five long days and not 1 win. Santa has come and gone, New Years Eve has faded into oblivion and the Ice Bowl is just a memory. December 22, 2007, that’s how long it’s been since our Buffalo Sabres left the ice victorious. That’s 9 straight games as I’m writing this. Now it’s possible, by the time you read this, the Sabres have ended their streak, but with the revenge minded Rangers, and Chris Drury licking their chops in Madison, ‘why do they call it’ Square ‘when it’s round’ Garden, I have a strange feeling we’ll be at 10 and counting.

    Now don’t get me wrong, this is not a team bashing exercise, because generally, the effort has been there and there have been some positives to come from this streak. First, five of those games have ended in a tie and Buffalo was able to skate away with a point in the standings. With all the teams in our conference bunched together, every point counts. Second, the boys have played through several injuries and the call-ups from Rochester have performed admirably. Third, 8 of those games have come against the 3 best teams in our conference, Ottawa, Pittsburgh and 3 shootout loses against New Jersey. Lastly, several of those games were 3^rd period comebacks, allowing us to salvage those important points.

    The ties are nice, but it doesn’t cover up the fact that there’s something missing on this team. Something that is holding them back, keeping them from getting over the top. What the Sabres are lacking is obvious, it’s leadership and a scoring touch and their names are Chris Drury and Daniel Briere.

    Those two made the difference, those two made us contenders. Now, with a lot of effort and hard work, maybe we’ll get back to the playoffs. That’s great, then what, we’ll have to face Ottawa and get our doors blown off, again. Great.

    The sad part is it didn’t have to be this way. Sabres Management put us in this predicament and they haven’t learned from their mistakes. Now this rant is not aimed at head coach, Lindy Ruff, or GM, Darcy Regier. Lindy is one of the best coaches in the league and Darcy is doing what his bosses tell him to do. This rant is squarely aimed at Owner, Thomas ‘Paychex’ Golisano and his poop boy, Larry ‘Bass Pro’ Quinn.

    You see a little over a year ago, if management would’ve played their cards right, they could’ve signed Drury, Briere and Thomas ‘Where’s the Net’ Vanek for about 11 or 12 Million a year. A year later, we only have Vanek and he’s making 10 Million this year. The whys and wherefores don’t matter, the bottom line is, we could’ve had 3 top line players for almost the same amount we’re paying one young gun. It doesn’t make any sense. It didn’t then and it doesn’t now. Now Quinn and Golisano are compounding their mistakes, by letting All-Star Defenseman Brian ‘Soupy’ Campbell twist in the wind with Free Agency looming. It’s not right.

    Next to Ryan Miller, Soupy’s the heart and sole of this team. This is what the big redhead had to say about his contract negotiation, “I’m done talking about it with the team until the end of the year. There’s more important things right now than just me. We’ve got to win. I think it’s for the best.” Are you kidding me? This guy’s a 2 time All-Star, plays over 25 minutes a game, kills penalties, scores on the power play, bleeds blue and gold and should be sporting a capital C on his left shoulder. How could you not want a guy like that on your team? Yet, ‘Paychex’ and ‘Bass Pro’ can’t get it done.

    What’s the problem here? Why can’t we afford to pay our players? Didn’t we purchase enough jerseys over the holidays? Aren’t we buying enough tickets? Wasn’t that over 70,000 people I just saw standing in a snow storm for over 3 hours watching a relatively meaningless hockey game? Is it me, or is there something wrong with this picture? What else would you like us to do for you Mr. Golisano, jump through hoops, fork over our bank account numbers, polish your limo? Just let us know and we’ll be sure to bend over for you.

    Well, I for one have had enough. Sure, it was nice of Mr. Golisano to come in and save our team, but he’s made a nice profit in doing so. Where’s the payback? If Mr. ‘Paychex’ only wants to cash in, maybe it’s time for him to cash out. If you don’t want to do what it takes to win Mr. Golisano, sell the team to someone that does. You can make a tidy profit and go on your merry way, run for Governor, President, Dog Catcher, who cares?

    You see, if this doesn’t stop right here and right now, it never will. Ben Franklin’s definition of insanity is, doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Last year it was Drury and Briere, this year it’s Campbell, next year it’ll be Miller’s turn, then what? Are we going to be nothing more than a farm team for the rest of the NHL? That’s unacceptable. Soupy has earned it, now stop the insanity Mr. Golisano, PAY THE MAN!

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Ten Tidbits

·        Marv-velous Marv Levy is calling it quits as Buffalo Bills GM. Hopefully; his departure will not send Bills’ football back to the Dark Ages, A.K.A. the Tom Donahoe era. In his two years at the position, Marv was more of a shepherd than a decision maker. He helped reenergize the fan base and stabilize a declining franchise. Yes, the Bills have a long way to go, but Marv’s got the wagon pointed in the right direction. Bills fans of the past, present and future will forever be indebted for his good judgment. Thanks Marv.

·        As Marv exits sage left, the grey haired one will advise the Bills brain trust on his replacement, along with helping to identify a new Offensive Coordinator. Rumor has it; both hires will be in house. I like the idea of not rocking the boat, but this would be a great opportunity to bring in some fresh blood. I’ve heard great things about Chicago’s director of college scouting, Greg Gabriel. He’s a Buffalo native, who scouted for the Bills in the 80s. It can’t hurt to have another trained eye evaluating college talent, especially since the Bills probably won’t be spending big in Free Agency. In addition, a fresh face at Offensive Coordinator can only help an offense stuck in neutral. You can’t win if you don’t score.

·        J.P. Losman’s agent is requesting the Bills trade J.P. Can you blame him? J.P. may not be the greatest Field General, but he’s definitely gotten a raw deal here. His first year, Lawyer Milloy went out of his way to break his leg in practice, ending his rookie season. He’s had to endure 3 different Offensive Coordinators and has been yanked in and out of the lineup so often the poor guy can’t tell if he’s coming or going. Then Vince Wilfork, of New England, gives him a cheap shot and he loses his starting position. Wherever you end up J.P., I hope you prove use all wrong. Don’t laugh, it can happen, think Todd Collins. Good Luck, J.P

·        Speaking of Vince Wilfork, the self-proclaimed standup guy was fined for the third time this year. This time Wilfork made like Moe Howard of the 3 Stooges and tried to poke Giants RB Brandon Jacobs in the eye with his finger. He was fined a few thousand dollars, instead of being suspended. When is this league going to crack down on these habitual lowlifes? Off with his head, I say.

·        Congratulations to the LSU Tigers for their impressive victory over Ohio State and their 2^nd BCS Championship. This is the 2^nd year in a row we’ve had to endure a Buckeye blowout. Wouldn’t it be nice if teams had to prove they belonged in the Championship game? Think playoffs NCAA.

·        Roger Clemens 60 Minute interview was a joke and anyone who believes that sham is not very bright. What’s happened to real journalism? Mike Wallace and his wrinkly mug should fade away into the sunset. Shame on you 60 Minutes, it’s all entertainment now.

·        In the afterglow of the Winter Classic, the Sabres have sunk into a 6 game losing streak. With 13 Conference teams within 10 points of each other, every loss hurts. Now, with a slew of road games on the horizon, the Sabres are in danger of losing touch with the pack. They’d better wake up soon, or the playoffs will be a pipedream.

·        The Sabres problem is a lack of consistent scoring, goals are few and far between. In the previous 2 years, the Blades could turn on the scoring faucet at will. Down a couple of goals, no problem, just turn on the jets and bingo, another come from behind win. Now, without Drury and Briere, even when the jets go on, it doesn’t mean the team will get airborne. What’s the solution? Bear down and play the full 60 minutes. Can these guys do it? I don’t know if they have the guts, but we’ll find out soon.

·        Speaking of Chris Drury, how do you think he likes having to defer to Captain Jaromir ‘Girly Man’ Jager?

·        Its apparent Sabres management has not learned from their pathetic blunders of the past. By refusing to negotiate contracts during the season, they lost both Drury and Briere and overpaid Thomas Vanek. Now, although they’ve stated a change in policy, they still have not locked up defenseman Brian ‘Soupy’ Campbell. What are they waiting for? The longer the season goes, the more it’s going to cost them. Pay the man before it’s too late, AGAIN! Thanks, Ben

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‘Classic’ Jealousy

        I have to admit I was a little jealous watching the aptly named ‘Winter Classic’ unfold before me on New Year’s Day. There I was in my Brother’s living room, fire burning, chowing down on munchies and sipping hot chocolate. Yet, I couldn’t shake the feeling I was missing out on something special, and I was.

        I didn’t want to be warm and cozy, I wanted to be one of the hardy fans able to experience the once in a lifetime event, but my internet finger wasn’t fast enough. Who would’ve thought the game was going to sell out in 20 minutes? I guess I could’ve paid hundreds of dollars for a ticket on E-Bay but, when you’re stuck in a losing streak, that’s not an option. I asked everyone I could if they had any extras, I might as well been packing snowballs in hell.

        You see, I’ve been wandering our humble Burg longer than I care to admit. I’ve seen the Bills play at the Rock Pile and watched the Bisons hoist the Calder Cup in the AHL. I attended the first ever Sabres game at the Aud, and the last, as well as the first game after they literally raised the roof. I was in attendance when Redskin, Herb Mul-key, ran back the first kickoff at ‘Rich’ Stadium, saw the first pitch at ‘Pilot’ Field, and watched the opening face-off at ‘Marine Midland Arena’. You can see why not being one of the ‘frozen’ few had me a little bummed out.

        The opening scene must’ve felt like Christmas morning to the 71,217 kids in attendance. The NHL could not have set the stage any better, light snow falling, throwback jerseys, bagpipers, helicopters, fireworks and oh yeah, a hockey game.

        The game itself saw the Sabres battle back from an early 1 goal deficit. Buffalo Goalie, Ryan Miller, barley had his toque on when Sid The Kid flew down the right wing and fired one off Millsie only to see Colby Armstrong bury the rebound, a mere 21 seconds into the contest. The Sabres shut down the Penguins the rest of the way and drew even in the second period, on a nifty one-timer by defenseman Brian ‘Soupy’ Campbell. You could’ve predicted the outcome right then and there because how could a ‘Classic’ game like this not go into overtime and a shoot out? Things looked ducky for the home team when Ales Kotalik beat former Sabres Goalie Ty Conklin like a rented mule. Kris Letang tied it up for Pittsburgh setting the stage for you know what. Sid, reliving ‘The Kid’ in everyone, zigging and zagging around mounds of snow and chipped ice to beat Miller 5-hole. ‘Classic’ game ‘Classic’ ending. I don’t even care the Sabres lost; I still wish I was there.

        Could the NHL have written a better script? Not a chance, especially with the writers strike in full force. Two of the youngest teams in the league with their poster boy, Sid The Kid Crosby, at the forefront. Was it ‘Classic’ hockey? The ice was terrible, you couldn’t stick handle or make a cross-rink pass, both teams looked like they were skating uphill and they had to stop the game every 10 minutes to resurface the ice. No, it wasn’t ‘Classic’ hockey, it was a hockey ‘Classic’. Are you listening Bob DiCesare of the Buffalo News? Lindy Ruff’s quote in the post game press conference said it all, ‘To Hell with the cynics’.

        Speaking of the NHL, where was Gary Bettman? I watched the whole telecast and did not see his face once, that’s not like the little munchkin. Now don’t get me wrong, I generally don’t like guys who get their nails done, especially the one responsible for the ‘No Goal’ controversy (I was there for that one too), but you’ve got to hand it to the little weasel he pulled this one off. Here were two franchises several years removed from bankruptcy on the biggest stage the NHL could muster. The ‘Classic’ went head to head with several New Year’s Bowl games and still managed to make the first 10 minutes of Sports Center. When was the last time that happened without an all our brawl?

        Will the ‘Classic’ make any new hockey fans? Who knows, but at least the NHL was relevant again, even if it was only for a day. You can bet, with the record attendance and all the merchandise sales, the ‘Classic’ will be back again somewhere next year. I’m just sorry I missed the first one. In the future, you know there will be 200,000 Buffalonians saying they were there, just like the Bills comeback game against the Oilers (I was there). Maybe you and I can keep this column on the Q-T and I can say I was there too. Happy New Year, Ben

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Where’s the Beef?

        That’s two losses in a row and I don’t like it. Now don’t get me wrong, this isn’t sour grapes because the Cleveland Browns and New ‘ Jersey ’ Giants were clearly superior to our Buffalo Bills and they deserved to win. What I don’t like is how we lost. The Bills were not prepared physically, to confront the challenge presented to them.

        As we all know, the weather in our burgh this time of year does not make it easy to play, or watch, a football game. The winds can come howling off the lake with the rain coming down sideways, like last Sunday versus the Giants. If the temperature is a bit lower, you can have the added dimension of several inches of snow, like two weeks ago in Cleveland. Obviously, if you can’t run the ball and stop the run your team is at an extreme disadvantage.

        Now I’ve been watching football in this town for 40+ years and I can guarantee you that our football team will see those conditions on average, 2 to 3 times a year. That’s a significant portion of a 16 game season. Wouldn’t it be wise, and prudent, to have a football team built to face those elements, especially if we ever get lucky enough to host a playoff game in January?

        The Super Bowl Bills of the early 90’s loved to play in inclement weather, they lived for it. Sure Jim Kelly and company could throw the ball up and down the field with the best of them, but if they had to, they could knock your socks off in the trenches. Those teams had huge, veteran offensive and defensive lines, many from the Northeast, and most of their practice time was outdoors before they built Field House. Fans would pray for bad weather because we knew our team had the advantage, not any more.

        This present group of Bills is young and mainly from schools down south and out west. They are just learning what it’s like to play December football in Buffalo and the Northeast. I know we have a good group of guys and I have a feeling they will learn what needs to be done to succeed on offense, but what scares me is their physical make up on defense. To put it bluntly, this team is a little light in the loafers. This defense is built on quickness, everyone plays their position, then runs to the football. Speed is king in this scenario and it works very well on a bright sunny day in September. The problem comes when the weather turns bad and the game evolves into a smash mouth, snot nosed, grunt fest. Then we’re in big trouble.

        If you’ll recall, in snowy Cleveland, Jamal Lewis bulldozed the Bills for 163 yards, 80 coming in the 4^th quarter with the Browns protecting the lead. The Bills knew the Browns were going to run, but could not do a thing about it. I can still see our linebackers and defensive backs bouncing off Lewis like so many snowflakes. It was pitiful. Last Sunday in the wind wasn’t any better with 2 Giant running backs gashing Buffalo for almost 300 yards. That’s not playing smash mouth, that’s getting your mouth smashed.

        I know injuries have a lot to do with it, but I’ve got the feeling that if we’re going to solve the problem we need to add some beef to the roster in the off-season. What we especially need is a big, mean, nasty, lard ass defensive tackle. I know Albert Hanyesworth of the Tennessee Titans will be available in Free Agency, but a toilet clogger like that is going to cost big bucks and you can forget about old Ralphie boy forking over that kind of money. Maybe we can pick a nice defensive tackle early in the draft, but it may take a while for him to develop.

        What the answer is, I don’t know for sure, that’s where our savvy GM Marv Levy comes in. After all, Ralph hosts the dinner, Coach Jauron cooks the meal, but Marv buys the groceries. I just have one question Marv, we’re all getting awful hungry for a playoff game so, ‘Where’s the beef?’

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S**NO**Way

        Last Sunday the Buffalo Bills’ playoff dream disappeared in the Snow Globe that was Cleveland Stadium. It wasn’t meant to be and I personally take full responsibility.

        Last week, in this very space, I prayed for bad weather to help neutralize the Browns prolific offense. Well, who knew the ‘Big Guy’ upstairs had such a wry sense of humor? It wasn’t just bad weather; it was the mother of all football storms.

        In my 40+ years of watching football, I have never witnessed Mother Nature unleash her full fury on a football game like she did last Sunday, even in Buffalo. Steady, falling snow and wind gusts of over 40 MPH made for a maddening experience. That was just watching it at home, I couldn’t imagine what it was like being there or trying to play in it.

        The footing was treacherous, making every step an adventure. The winds were horrendous, playing havoc with every pass. The kicking game was the ultimate double whammy and reminded me of going through the Magic Carpet Ride for the first time (For you youngsters out there, the Magic Carpet Ride was the old house of horrors at Crystal Beach).

        It was a difficult day, under difficult conditions, but the Browns, came to play. They knew the playoffs were on the line and would not be denied. Veteran RB Jamal Lewis was like a huge snowplow, battering the undersized Bills defense like so many snowflakes. Lewis was especially effective in the forth quarter, wearing down the Bills and keeping the ball when it mattered most. The Cleveland receivers, Braylon Edwards, Joe Jurevicius and Kellen Winslow Jr., are huge and created a nice target for QB Derek Anderson. It helped to get a little lucky, as a Pin Ball 25 yard catch in the first quarter accounted for the Browns first field goal. Phil Dawson, the Cleveland kicker, also caught a break as the snow stopped just long enough for him to make an improbable 49 yard kick. It was that kind of a day. As I said, the Big Guy has a sense of humor doesn’t he?

On the other hand, RB Marshawn Lynch gave it all he had, but ended up spinning his wheels, unable to get traction. QB Trent Edwards went back to pass and only saw a sea of white, as the Bills white jerseys made the whiteout conditions even more difficult. Kicker Brian Moorman’s punts had a mind of their own and kicking one out of your own end zone, for a safety, is definitely one that never needs repeating. The Bills defense, built for speed, was unable to handle the 4x4 conditions. You can’t fault the effort, but the Bills were out manned and ill prepared for the task at hand.

        It was the first time this young team has faced such adverse conditions. Wouldn’t it have been wise for the coaches to conduct practice outside the field house last week? I know they went outdoors for part of one practice, but was that enough, especially with the bad weather forecast? The Bills’ teams of the past couldn’t wait to face an opponent in bad weather. Many of our young players are from California and the South; it would’ve helped if they were accustomed to braving the elements. I know these guys are millionaires, but why not have practice outside once in a while and get them accustomed to what needs to be done. You could find out what running style works, what plays you can call, what shoes you need to wear, what winter gear you need to have on. It could only help and it’s not as if it’s never going to happen again, it is Buffalo you know.

        The last bone I need to pick is J.P. Losman. Yeah, I know he didn’t play, but that’s the problem. After the coaching staff saw the first half, wouldn’t it have been wise to insert J.P. into a game tailor made for his abilities. Now don’t get me wrong, I firmly believe Trent Edwards is the better all around QB, but the conditions called for someone with a strong arm and quick feet. Maybe J.P. zips one in there that Trent had sail away. Maybe J.P. finds a seam on a scramble and gains 30 yards. We’ll never know, but with the offense going nowhere anyway, it couldn’t have hurt. What really hurt was leaving the ball at the 10 yard line with the score, appropriately, a Cleveland ‘Snowman’, to a Buffalo Goose Egg, 8 to 0. It would’ve been nice to catch a break, but the bottom line is, the better team won, Congratulations Cleveland.

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Bark Like a ‘Dog’

        The Fish are squished, the Skins are scalped, now look out Dawg Pound here we come.

        Just 2 short weeks ago, after the Sunday Night debacle versus the Pats and a decisive road loss to the Jags, the Buffalo Bills playoff dreams were more like a nightmare. Buffalo only had a 5-6 record with 5 games to play. The Bills basically had to win them all to have a shot at the playoffs. To make matters worse, we were facing that obstacle while making a QB change and without ‘The Beast’, RB Marshawn Lynch. What a difference a couple of weeks make.

The Bills went to D.C., wouldn’t take no for an answer and pulled out a gutsy, last second win over Washington. It was a total team effort, ‘one for all and all for one’. They followed that up by coming home to face the downtrodden Dolphins. Yes, Miami stood at an embarrassing 0-12 but certainly, pride would inspire the once mighty Dolphins to avoid a goose egg.

Well these aren’t your Daddy’s Dolphins Don Shula because any pride these Fish had disappeared on a cold December day in Orchard Park. A mere 11 minutes into the game, Buffalo capitalized on every mistake and took a commanding 21-0 lead. The once proud Dolphins mailed it in from there. RB Marshawn Lynch returned from injury and pounded the Porpoises for a107 yards. His partner, Freddy ‘Action’ Jackson, added another 115. Two, count’m 2, 100-yard rushers, awesome. QB Trent Edwards had his best day yet, 4 TD’s, topped by a laser, 70 yard bomb, to Lee Evans. So much for Mr. Edwards having a weak arm. The defense stood tall with 5 sacks, 2 interceptions and a fumble return for a TD that Miami QB John Beck is still looking for. Nice work George Wilson. It was another total team effort, ‘one for all and all for one’.

I might be a little sel-fish, but after living through the 0 for 20 70’s, I am deriving much pleasure watching these Fish swim upstream to 0-16. Keep up the good work Miami, history awaits you. Top that off with the Pats march toward perfection and it’s going to be a long time before Mr. Shula and company ever have another sip of champagne. Shoot, if that happens, I might even spring for a bottle of the bubbly myself. We’ll keep that one the back burner.

Now, the Bills stand at 7-6 and continue their once improbable pursuit of a playoff berth. The task will not be an easy one. They first must travel to Cleveland and conquer a game, 8-5, Browns team. The Browns are much like us, young, hungry, but with a better offense and a sub par defense. The Browns beat the teams they’re supposed to beat, but lose to the upper echelon, like the Bills.

To win Buffalo must slow down the Browns prolific passing attack and play their bend but don’t break style to perfection. WR Braylon Edwards is a stud and TE Kellon Winslow Jr. will play to our Achilles heal, a pass catching TE. It will be especially difficult now that our Safety, George Wilson, is out for the year. This is where the offense comes in. QB Edwards, along with RB’s Lynch and Jackson, must control the ball, the clock and the game, keeping the Browns off the field. It’s going to be another cold December day and, if the weather plays to our strength, it can only help.

As a 6 point ‘Dog’, it won’t be easy for the Bills to go into the Dawg Pound and come away even with the Browns at 8-6. It’s going to take another total team effort, ‘one for all and all for one’. But, if it were easy, it wouldn’t be any fun, would it? Whatever happens happens, I’m just happy to be watching a team, and a game, that matters in the middle of December. So look out Dawg Pound because this ‘Dog’ is going to give you all they got, as long as Michael Vick is still in jail. Go Bills, Woof-Woof.

Log on to www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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Team Effort

        From the Head Coach to the guy that picks up the tee after kickoffs, the Buffalo Bills 17-16 last second victory over the Washington Redskins was a total team effort.

        It took 5 field goals from kicker Rian Lindell, the last of which he had to make twice, to seal the victory. I never liked that timeout bull, trying to ice the kicker, so I was especially happy to see the double whammy backfire on Mr. Freeze, I mean Joe Gibbs. Skins owner Dan Snyder must be spending about 20 Million for Gibbs, and his 17 assistants, yet no one knows the rules. How does that taste Dan? That’s now 17 in a row for the man with the ice water in his veins.

        It took a clutch 30-yard catch by much-maligned WR Josh Reed to set up the winning kick. It was the exact same play, a week earlier in Jacksonville; Reed was accused of having alligator arms and not laying out to make the catch. Truth is Reed never saw the ball in the sun. It was sweet redemption. Good work Josh.

        It took patience and resolve by rookie QB Trent Edwards. Edwards didn’t get much done early, but he hung in there and cashed in on his opportunities in the 2^nd half. Edwards is one cool cat under pressure and he doesn’t rattle when the bullets are flying. That’s the difference between him and J.P. Losman. Edwards makes the offensive line and everyone around him better. That’s the job of a good QB and this rookie is only going to get better and better. Way to go Trent.

        It took a phenomenal effort by a first time starter, RB Fred Jackson. Jackson had 82 yards on 16 carries and 69 yards on 4 catches. The big one was a 54-yard grab that helped pull the Bills within 2 points. They don’t call him Action Jackson for nothing. Not bad for a 3^rd stringer.

        It took another inspired effort by Buffalo’s depleted defense. The bend but don’t break Bills stopped the Skins repeatedly in the red zone. Washington could only manage 1 TD in 4 red zone attempts. The Bills were especially resilient in the first half. The Skins seemed to convert every 3^rd down play in the opening 30 minutes but only had a 9 to 2 lead at the break. The defense also made some great stops down the stretch, stopping RB Clinton Portis dead in his tracks. The also got the ball back when they had to, with the game on the line. Kudos.

        It took a brilliant play by the tackling machine, LB Angelo Crowell. Crowell sacked Washington QB Jason Campbell in his own end zone, scoring a rare safety and scoring the Bills only points in the 1^st half. Crowell has gone about his job in almost total anonymity, yet there he is week in and week out laying it all on the line. Crowell is one of the few constants on a defense that has weathered more than its share of injury. Thanks Angelo.

        It took a spectacular coaching job by Dick Jauron and company. The Bills playoff hopes were down for the count after that blowout loss to the Patriots and the road loss to the Jags. Jauron’s preparation and calming influence helped pick this team of youngsters and 2^nd stringers off the matt. He was especially influential keeping this team focused on the day the Skins were honoring their fallen comrade, Sean Taylor. The Skins played an inspired game and the whole world, outside of Buffalo, was in their corner. Everyone seemed to write the Bills off, especially the talking heads. It gets a little nauseating. The Bills get no respect. Not when they play the Cowboys on Monday Night, not when they play the Pats on Sunday Night and not here. It’s as if our team is invisible, it’s all about the other guys. Good work Dick.

        Last, but not least, it took the vision and steady hand of GM Marv Levy. Marv has put together a group of men that play as a team. No me, me, me, it’s all for one and one for all. That’s a far cry from where they were less than 2 years ago under Tom Donahoe. Congratulations Marv, take a bow.

Finally, at 6-6, I know the playoffs are a pipe dream, but I also know that as long as there’s a chance this team will not give up. The Bills are improving and those close games we were losing are now turning into victories. That’s a sure sign of progress and it’s only going to get better. Keep up the good work Buffalo, you never know.

Log on to www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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Ten Tidbits

• Buffalo ’s 36-24 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars spells the end of the line for Bills QB, J.P. Losman. J.P.’s a good guy, has all the physical tools and tries real hard, but it was painful to watch him against the Jags. The Bills’ offense is hit or miss, with him at the controls and a 10-21 record is not going to cut it in this league. This young team needs a QB who can be consistent, perform under pressure and help keep our ‘bend but don’t break’ defense off the field. I am finally ready for the Trent Edwards era to begin. Sorry J.P., but it just wasn’t happening.
• The Bills ‘bend but don’t break defense’ must have gotten stretched awful thin in that 56-10 New England blowout because I think the rubber band has finally snapped. The Buffalo defense, decimated by injury throughout the year, had not given up a scoring play of over 50 yards. The Jags broke through with 2 TD’s of over 50 yards, to help seal the loss. Here’s hoping the Bills can get off the mat. Trent’s going to need a lot of help.
• Speaking of help, whoever the QB is, wouldn’t it be nice if he had a big WR, or TE, who could go over the middle and catch one in the clutch. All of our skill players are either light in the loafers or don’t have the sack to do what it takes. You can’t run a possession offense without the personnel to get the job done. Are you listening Marv Levy?
• It was a total team defeat against the Jags. Our stellar Special Teams even took the day off. Coach Bobby April must’ve had a cow after the Bills stopped the Jags Offense on their first possession, only to have our punt unit flagged for 12 men on the field. You can’t make a mistake like that in this league, that’s just as bad as a turnover. The Jags made Buffalo pay with a 50 yard TD run for a 7-0 lead. It was downhill after that. Keep your head in the game boys.
• It was literally a quagmire last Monday night at Heinz in Pittsburgh. The Steelers scored the only points in the game, with 17 seconds left, winning 3-0 and keeping the Dolphins perfect, winless, season in play. The NFL should put its foot down and force the Steelers, and other Northeastern cities, to install synthetic turf. It doesn’t make sense to have a multibillion-dollar sport with multimillion-dollar players playing on a 2-cent field. It’s pretty bad when a punt gets wedged in the turf like an 8-Iron. Wake up NFL.
• Speaking of perfect seasons, Philly came awful close to stopping the Patriots dead in their tracks. The well-seasoned Eagles found a way to slow down WR Randy Moss and apply some pressure on pretty boy Tom Brady. Alas, it was not to be, as a last minute interception derailed the ‘Karma Train’.
• The news of the death of troubled Washington safety, Sean Taylor, is another sober reminder. Rumor has it; Taylor was shot in the groin. There was also news that a week earlier, someone broke into his Miami home and left a knife on his bed. Taylor may have been trying to turn his life around, but it doesn’t sound like a random act of violence to me. When are these guys going to learn?
• The Sabres have finally turned their season around, winning 5 straight and pulling themselves into the playoff race. The key to winning has been a renewed emphasis towards defense and scoring the first goal doesn’t hurt either. The Sabres had allowed the first goal in 14 straight games with little success. The last 5 victories were a different story. It’s not brain surgery.
• Sabres backup goalie, Jocelyn Thibault, blanked his hometown Canadians, right in Montreal, 3-0. It’s good to see a capable, veteran backup give starter, Ryan Miller a well-deserved breather. Here’s hoping Coach Lindy Ruff is paying attention. Keeping Miller fresh for the playoffs can’t hurt.
• Tom Osborne and Nebraska University are on the prowl for a new Head Coach. That search has led directly to our doorstep, The University of Buffalo’s Turner Gill. The former Cornhusker Alum is a miracle worker. Gill has turned the Bulls fortunes around and it sure would be nice if he were here for one more season. Whatever happens, good luck Turner, you deserve it. Thanks, Ben

    Log on to my website, www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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Hop on the Karma Train

    The Bills record-breaking 56-10 loss to the New England Patriots last Sunday Night wasn’t a football game it was an execution. The Pats came to town off their bye week and made our Bills look like a high school team. There’s no need for me to rehash the gory details. In short, it was an embarrassment and showed just how far Buffalo needs to go.

    The fact that really burns my onions is the Pats running up the score. Bill Belichick, a.k.a. ‘The Hoodie’, is an arrogant, cheating, lowlife adulterer and his actions will come back to haunt him. Twice in the late going, while deep in Buffalo territory, he decided to go for it on 4^th down instead of kicking a gimmie field goal. I know it’s the Bills job to stop them, but there’s a thing called ‘class’ in this world and The Hoodie doesn’t have any.

    I can remember a familiar juggernaut of the early 90’s, sporting a streaking Buffalo on their helmets, with the same attributes as these Patriots. That team also, did not take any prisoners, but when they had you down and out they didn’t rub your face in the dirt. That’s the difference my friends, The Hoodie doesn’t want to just beat you, he wants to show you just how much better he is. That’s classless.

    Well, my friends take solace in the fact that, sooner or later, The Hoodie is going to get his. He’s standing right smack dab in the middle of a set of railroad tracks and the Karma Train is coming. It may not happen this year, it may not happen this decade, but he’ll get his and I hope I’m there to witness the carnage.

    Sour grapes? Maybe, but I’m not the only one beginning to hate The Hoodie and by the end of the year, I’m sure there will be many more joining me on the Karma Train. Wooo-Wooo.

    Now, in an effort to lighten the mood, I present 10 Bill Belichick insults:

·        Hey Bill, I don’t consider you a vulture.....I consider you something a vulture would eat.

·        Hey Bill, I used to think you were a pain in the neck.....Now I have a much lower opinion of you.

·        The Hoodie does the work of 3 men.....Curly, Larry and Moe.

·        Hey Bill, I hear you started at the bottom.....and it’s been downhill ever since.

·        They couldn’t find Bill on his family tree.....because he’s the sap.

·        Hey Bill, Hell called.....they want to know if you want your old job back.

·        What did The Hoodie say to the Police officer when he got pulled over?.....‘I swear to drunk I’m not God.’

·        Hey Bill, I hear you grow on people.....like a wart.

·        Bill you remind me of the ocean.....you make me sick.

·        Hey Bill, I hear you changed your mind once.....What did you do with the diaper?

Happy Thanksgiving everyone and enjoy your turkey. Thanks, Ben

    Log on to my website, www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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Pass the Kool-Aid

    I promised myself I wouldn’t do it.

I promised myself during last year’s draft, when the Bills selected Trent Edwards instead of addressing their present needs.

I promised myself after Buffalo dominated the Broncos in the opener, but lost with no time left on the clock.

I promised myself after the Bills got shellacked by the Steelers.

I promised myself after J.P. Losman was cheap-shotted by the Pats and Buffalo started the season 0-3.

I promised myself after rookie LB, Paul Posluszny, joined half of our starting defense on the injury report.

I especially promised myself after the Bills got my hopes up on Monday Night against the Cowboys, only to have my heart ripped out again, with no time left on the clock.

I promised myself I wouldn’t buy into the Bills chances of making the playoffs. Yet, after 4 straight wins, here we sit, right smack dab in the middle of the playoff hunt.

The Bills aren’t that good, are they? How did it happen?

I mean I watched all the games, I know we beat the Ravens, Jets, Bengals and Dolphins, to go 5-4, but how did we get there? After all, our young defense was decimated by injuries. Our starting WR and TE are lost for the season, along with J.P. being out for several games. Our coaches supposedly can’t coach and cost us those 2 close games. Our offense and defense are both looking up the NFL stat sheet. So, how did it happen?

I’ll tell you how it happened, patience, perseverance, guts, and a bunch of hungry young guys that don’t know any better.

The Bills could’ve packed it in, after all the injuries they endured and that 0-3 start, but they didn’t. The coaches stuck to their guns and patiently went about their business. Our young team stuck together and worked harder to get better. There was no panic, no woe is me, just hard work and a belief things would improve. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not sold on Dick Jauron being a game day coach, but he must be doing something right from Monday until Saturday, because this team comes to play.

The defense played through their injury problems and is now a solid unit. They don’t give up to many big plays and teams have to work to score a TD. The much-maligned offensive line now looks workable and RB Marshawn ‘The Beast’ Lynch is the real deal. Trent Edwards is a capable starter, at QB and J.P. Losman is fighting for his job. Those 2 guys may not be the best, but I can tell you about 20 other teams that would love to have either one of them.

The special teams get very little credit, especially on the stat sheet, but that group is the glue that holds this team together. Kudos to Bobby April and company.

Don’t forget the intangibles; this team is young, hungry and just learning how to win. Instead of giving games away, like earlier in the season, we’ve now won several close games. Can you imagine if the Bills could catch a break and won those 2 games against the Broncos and Cowboys? We’d be 7-2 and the talk of the league. Would’a, could’a, should’a, the reality is, we’re 5-4 and still have a decent shot at the playoffs.

Can it be done? Sure, it can. We need to get to 10-6, or have an outside chance at 9-7. We have road games against the Jags, Redskins, Browns and Eagles. Hopefully, 3 wins. Home games against the Pats, Dolphins and Giants. Hopefully, 2 wins. That’s 5-2 for a total of 10-6. Bingo!

It all starts Sunday Night in the showdown versus New England. Can the 15 point underdog Bills logically beat the perfect Pats? Hell no! However, this is the NFL and theoretically, from week to week, anything can happen. Wouldn’t it be sweet to blow up their undefeated season and see that lowlife cheater in the Hoodie eat crow? I’m getting goose bumps just thinking about it.

I’m proud of this resilient team and the playoff push starts Sunday. Here’s hoping the Bills can finally catch a break, unmask the mighty Pats and get to the postseason after an 8-year drought. I know, I know, I broke my promise. Go Bills! and Pass the Kool-Aid.

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Ten Tidbits

·        The Bills 33-21 victory over the Bengals was a long time coming. It pulled Buffalo back to .500 and gives them a legitimate shot at a playoff berth. Besides that, when was the last time Buffalo scored 30 points?

·        Now the fun starts. J.P. Losman’s performance in the victory over the Bengals puts a little heat under Dick Jauron’s coaching seat. Does Jauron kowtow to the cheapskate owner and play the rookie, Trent Edwards, or does he go with his best chance to win now, J.P. It’ll be an interesting decision. I wonder how the locker room will react.

·        RB Marshawn Lynch continues to show his worth with a 153 yard rushing performance that included a TD pass to Robert Royal. I, for one am happy he wears a Bills uniform, and the further away we get from Willis McGahee the happier I am.

·        The Buffalo defense also deserves a ton of praise. They have played through a seasons worth of injures and continue to hold their own against some tough opponents. It would have been nice if Paul Posluszny were along for the ride.

·        The Bills game against the Pats on November 18^th has been officially moved to the NBC Sunday Night game. Is that decision, by the NFL and NBC, a compliment to the Bills, or are we fodder for the undefeated Pats?

·        The Sabres are in a funk. Buffalo is inconsistent and in last place in their division. Do you think the leadership of former Co-Captains Chris Drury and Daniel Briere might have helped? 10 Million for Thomas Vanek, what ajoke.

·        The Sabres are in the middle of a 9 game run of division opponents, They’d better wake up soon or they could be out of it by Thanksgiving.

·        Bucky Gleason’s column, ‘Buffalo is Number One in Something’, in the Buffalo News last Monday, was a cold slap in the face, on what should’ve been a feel good day. Bucky states, ‘If you want losing, try spending a lifetime in Buffalo. Nobody does it better than we do, so in a strange and twisted way it puts us at the top of something.’ Thanks Bucky, if it wasn’t for you we would have never noticed we lost 4 consecutive Super Bowls and have failed in 2 Stanley Cup finals, among other things. Maybe Bucky can help our community take a big step in the right direction. In the immortal words of Bill Polian, ‘If you don’t like it, get out of town Bucky.’

·        Super Bowl 41½, between the undefeated Colts and Pats, was like the shootout at the O K Corral. The Colts blinked first. I can’t wait for the rematch in the postseason.

·        The handshake Pats coach Bill Belichick offered Tony Dungy after Super Bowl 41½ was a joke and an insult. Belichick is arrogant, egotistical and likes to run up the score on a vanquished foe. Here’s hoping he gets what’s coming to him. Wouldn’t it be sweet if it happened on November 18^th. Go Bills!

Log on to my website, www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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A Day at the Ralph

        I didn’t plan to see the Bills beat the Ravens, 19-14, last Sunday, but ‘stuff’ happens. It’s been a while since I attended a Bills game at the Ralph. I’m on the edge of Geezerville and the thought of spending the day with hordes of people and fighting traffic does not appeal to me anymore. Anyway, my buddy Mike won a couple of 12^th row tickets at work and invited me to go. It was awful nice of him, but I said ‘no thanks’. I’m getting to old for that and I have the NFL Ticket at home. I enjoy watching all the games not just the Bills. I have to monitor my wagers, if you know what I mean.

        A couple of days later, I took my cousin Salvatore, who’s visiting from Italy, to my local hangout. There he had his first taste of our local delicacy, chicken wings. Well let me tell you the deep fried fowl translates nicely into other languages. Salvatore couldn’t get enough. Salvatore has been here a couple of weeks and he’s enjoying all that the City of Good Neighbors has to offer. He loves all of the diverse food options and enjoyed his first ever hockey game, a Sabres victory.

        Well, right about then Mike walks in the door, I introduce him to Salvatore and, as it always does, the conversation turned to football. In no time Mike offers Salvatore and I his tickets. It was a wonderful gesture because nobody enjoys Bills football more than Mike. I was a little hesitant, especially after turning them down the first time, but I couldn’t deny Salvatore a chance to see his first ‘American’ Football game. Salvatore has obviously been to many Soccer games back home in Turin but this was going to be a completely new experience.

        My friends Frank and Sharonna, who are Bills season ticket holders, were also in the bar at the time so we hooked up for a ride to the game. No way was I going to give old Ralphie boy an extra $25 to park at the stadium.

When Sunday rolled around Salvatore found it a little odd that we were getting up at 7:30 to attend a game that didn’t start until 1:00. I explained to him that half the fun of going to the game was the pregame festivities. He looked at me a little odd, but went with the flow.

It was a sunny morning, when we met up with Frank and Sharonna, and a beautiful ride to the stadium. When we arrived, Frank positioned the car anticipating an early escape. As soon as the car stopped, the trunk sprung open and Frank was downing his first beer. He handed one to Salvatore, who looked at him a little odd, it being only 9:00 in the morning, but he went with the flow. ‘When in Rome’, or is that when in Orchard Park?

The munchies and grill came out next. It wasn’t long before the burgers hit the fame. Salvatore looked at us a little odd, as we started downing cheeseburgers at 10:00 AM, but he was starting to get the hang of things. Some friends stopped by and a few beers later, Salvatore was feeling no pain. A little while later Sharonna took Salvatore to the Budweiser Pregame Party while I called in my bets. I liked the Bills +3, the Ravens were hurting and I anticipated a low scoring game.

Frank and I enjoyed the brilliant sunshine as we passed the burning #23 jerseys on the way to meeting Salvatore and Sharonna in the Stadium. Salvatore had a big smile on his face and, from the picture I saw on Sharonna’s phone I could see why, he was with 2 Bills cheerleaders. Lucky dog.

Salvatore enjoyed the fireworks and the pregame festivities but was a little confused about the rules. I tried to explain them as best I could and told him whenever you see everyone get up and cheer, just go with the flow. He looked at me a little odd and nodded. A short while later he asked me why everyone was booing #23 of the Baltimore team? I tried to explain what a total tool #23 had been while he was here and he began booing in unison.

The Bills dominated the first half, but the game was a little too close for comfort when #23 scored for Baltimore. The crowd was a little stunned for a second there, but we got right back on him. The Bills played an inspired game, despite a couple of miscues and the outcome went right down to the wire.

When the final gun sounded, we made a beeline to the car and were out of there in no time, beating the crowd. We all had big grins on our faces but mine was especially satisfying knowing there was a nice payday down the line. It was right about then Sharonna turned to Salvatore and asked him how he liked the game. He tells us, it was a ‘funny’ day. We corrected him and said no, it was a ‘fun’ day. He nodded in agreement. What a country, thanks Mike.

Next week I’ll be reporting to you from the belly of the beast Lost Wages, Nevada.

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‘Bye’ The Way...

Ten Tidbits for the Bye Week

...Just got done watching another fantastic finish by the Sabres. Buffalo spotted the Maple ‘Laughs’ a 2-goal lead in the 3^rd period and came from behind 3 times to win it, 5-4, with 3 seconds left in OT. It’s always satisfying watching those smug Toronto fans preen into town and leave crying in their beer. Don’t let the traffic gate hit you on the way over the Peace Bridge.

...It’s nice to see little Jaroslav Spacek’s face come off the milk carton after last year’s ‘Amber Alert’ in the playoffs. The defenseman has 4 goals and 2 assists through 5 games. Spacek has been a force on the Sabres rejuvenated power play and is looking to increase his playing time. It can only mean one thing; it must be a contract year.

...I can’t wait to welcome our old buddy, Willis McGahee, back to town Sunday. I’m sure Bills fans will be out in full force with their #23 jerseys. Willis will be the ‘toast’ of the town. Of course, what will be ‘toast’ is all the #23 jerseys tossed into the bonfire at One Bills Drive. Hey Willis, maybe you can take a short jaunt up north while you’re here. You have a lot in common with Toronto fans; you’re both losers.

...Is it J.P. Losman or Trent Edwards? The game Dick Jauron and Marv Levy are playing, by not announcing a starting QB for Sunday, is ridiculous. It’s obvious Trent is the man, or they would have never opened up the subject to controversy.

...Losman v Edwards, Flutie v Johnson and even Kemp v Lamonica, we all know who makes the final call. It’s the ‘Old Cheapskate’, Ralph Wilson, and there’s no way in hell Ralph is going to let J.P. come back and shine. That’ll mean forking over 15 Million in a new contract and that’s not happening. I’m not saying J.P. is the better QB, but wouldn’t it be nice if ability came before money. Oh, I forgot Ralph plans on taking it with him.

...I’m happy to see Tim Connolly back and playing to his full potential. Connolly has 1 goal and 6 assists and is the major reason why the Sabres power play is back on track. Connolly attacks the zone and when he crosses the blue line, the opposition is afraid to confront him because he’ll turn them into a pretzel. That’s one thing Chris Drury could not do.

...The New England Patriots demolished the previously undefeated Dallas Cowboys right in Texas Stadium, 48-27. The Boys kept it close for a half but the Pats are good, scary good. Dallas WR, Terrell Owens, refused to talk to reporters before the game and did not acknowledge the Pats superiority after the fact. Hey T.O., SCORBOARD!. The only team that has a chance to derail the Pats is Indy, at home, on November 4^th. I have a funny feeling we may be looking at the first ever 19-0. Those ancient, jackass, 17-0 Dolphins might be sticking those champagne bottles where the sun don’t shine.

...Speaking of jackass Dolphins, Miami has started the season 0-6 and seem to be getting worse each week. Cleo Lemon is playing QB, now that Trent Green’s eggs have been scrambled into retirement and that once stellar defense is aging right before our very eyes. Wouldn’t it be downright justice to see the Phins go 0-16? I’m getting goose bumps just thinking about it. I might even spring and buy some bubbly.

...The Bills are 1-4 and seemingly out of contention. It’s sad to look back and realize Buffalo is only 4 seconds away from being 3-2, after last second loses to the Broncos and Cowboys. It’s especially hard to take because we have winnable games against the Ravens, Jets, Bengals and Dolphins on deck.

...What a difference a week makes. This Monday we celebrated a Sabres win in a wild comeback and last week, at this time, we were stewing over the ‘Dallas Debacle’ on Monday Night Football. It still burns my onions thinking about that one. Is the Bye Week over yet? Where’s my Willis Sucks t-shirt?

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I Hate Mondays

    Zero for four in Super Bowls, Wide Right, No Goal, Home Run Throwback, Defensemen dropping like flies with the Stanley Cup waiting in the wings. Now we have the Dallas Debacle on Monday Night. What did we do to deserve this torture? Did we build the stadium on an ancient Indian Burial Ground? Is the spirit of President McKinley up there trying to get even? Whatever it is, make it stop I can’t take it anymore.

    In their first Monday Night home game in 13 years, the Bills were 10½-point home underdogs to the surging 4-0 Dallas Cowboys. Devastated by injuries, the National pundits gave Buffalo no respect. They called Buffalo a ‘punching bag’, a mere speed bump as the Boys steamroll their way to the Super Bowl. Well, they were all wrong. The young and undermanned Bills would have none of it. The men in the throwback Red, White, and Blue, the real America ’s Team, summoned up the skill and the will to go toe to toe with the anointed ones.

    For 59 minutes and 58 seconds, the Bills gave the Boys all they could handle. Their downtrodden defense came to life on the biggest of stages forcing pretty boy, Tony Romo, into 5 interceptions and 1 fumble. It was inspiring to say the least. The 71,575 in attendance were in full throat and barely took a seat for the entire 3 hours and 17 minutes.

    Romo didn’t know what hit him when converted WR George Wilson picked one off and took it to the house for a pick 6. In the second quarter, it was more of the same as DE Chris Kelsay swatted a Romo pass, like a bug at a Yankee game, it gracefully floated into his arms in the end zone. It was poetry in motion for a Bills fan and a comfortable 17 to 10 lead at halftime.

    In the third quarter, after a Cowboy field goal, Terrence McGee showed Wade Phillips the meaning of Special Teams with a patented 103-yard kickoff return. I have to admit it was great to see the smug look knocked off Jerry Jones facelift as he nervously watched from the booth. It was a 24-13 lead after three.

It was an uneasy lead in the forth quarter, the offense had only produced 3 out of 24 points and as a Bills fan, you knew it wasn’t over. Rookie QB, Trent Edwards, was having an efficient game, but the offense was going nowhere, especially in the red zone. With the Bills at the Dallas 11-yard line, the Buffalo coaches had a brain cramp. Instead of calling a running play, killing the clock and taking a gimmie field goal, Trent Edwards tossed an interception that was returned 70 yards. The defense came up big again as LB DiGiorgio picked off another Romo miscue. Time was running down when the Boys got the ball back. It was an uneasy eight-point lead for the Bills and you knew Dallas was not done yet. The Boys finally scored with 20 seconds left and it was down to a do or die 2-point conversion. When Jabari Greer knocked the ball out of Terrell Owens hands in the end zone, we thought the game was over, little did we know. Only against the Bills would an onsides kick work to perfection. With 18 seconds left and no timeouts the Boys somehow managed to kick the winning field goal. It was a major disappointment and an emotional turnaround I can only compare to the Music City Miracle. Watching Jerry Jones, Wade Phillips and Terrell Owens celebrate made me want to puke. The football Gods are blind in one eye and can’t see out of the other.

I’m left with more questions than answers in Monday’s wake and the more I think about it the dizzier I get. The Bills Coaching staff did a stupendous job of putting the players in place to make some great plays, especially on defense. Then they go ahead and make several bonehead decisions that cost us the game. Instead of running the clock and playing conservative, they put a rookie QB in a vulnerable position and paid the price. Trent Edwards was efficient but the offense should be ashamed of only producing 3 points for the entire game. Where does that leave our QB situation? The special teams played great, but messed up with the game on the line. The defense was shorthanded and played out of character, but couldn’t get the job done by keeping receivers inbounds on the final field goal drive.

Where do we go from here? The Bills are only 1-4, but 4 seconds away from being 3-2. Are we on the verge of something great or did we just hit a high that will throw us into a downward spiral? I’m getting a headache just thinking about it. Now we’re confronted with a bye week to make the pain last twice as long. I hate Mondays.

Log on to my website, www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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“It”

    Jim Kelly had it, worked it, but couldn’t make it count. Frank Reich borrowed it, used it, but had to give it back. Todd Collins had no idea what it was. Rob Johnson looked for it and never found it. Doug Flutie touched it, but didn’t have the tools to fully use it. Drew Bledsoe thought he had it, but didn’t know what it was, until Tom Brady showed him the real meaning of it. J.P. Losman shows flashes of it, but it is just beyond his grasp. After watching Rookie QB,Trent Edwards, beat the New York Jets, 17-14, last Sunday I know one thing for sure, Trent Edwards has it.

    You may ask, “What is it?” When talking about an NFL QB, it involves many things. It is the arm strength to make all the throws. It is the intelligence to read defenses, look off defensive backs and find the open man. It is the physical ability to avoid the rush, making some 300-pound behemoth grasp for air. It is the wisdom to learn from your mistakes and knowledge not to make them again. It is the ability to lead men to do something they have never done before. You put it all together and then you have it. Trent Edwards has it.

    I have to admit, when the Buffalo Bills drafted a QB in the 3^rd round of last year’s draft, I was the first one to yell bloody murder. I couldn’t believe it; I felt the Bills wasted a 1^st day draft pick. Many other holes needed to be addressed. To me it was a sign 2007 was going to be another rebuilding year. It was disappointing after a strong finish to 2006, and the selections of RB Marshawn Lynch and LB Paul Posluszny, I didn’t get it. I thought the Bills would go for it this year.

    Marv gets it. Marv, I’m sorry I ever doubted you and I apologize. He may be 80-something years old, but he’s seen it, smelled it, and touched it. The only thing he hasn’t done is bring it home. Well Marv the foundation is finally here, time to start building the walls, brick by brick, because Trent Edwards has it.

    When Patriot defensive lineman, Vince Wilfork, took a cheap shot at J.P. Losman’s knees, knocking him out of the lineup for 2 weeks, I was one P.O.’d Bills fan. In retrospect, it may have been the best thing that ever happened to the Bills. Trent Edwards entered the game and adroitly engineered a Bills TD drive. It was very impressive, then reality set in, along with a few Bill Belichick defensive disguises and the Pats kicked our sorry butts. Against the Jets, Edwards got the benefit of a full week of preparation and it showed. Trent was calm, cool, collected and didn’t let the gravity of the moment take control. He completed 22 of 28 pinpoint passes, spreading the ball, hitting receivers in stride, making first downs, controlling the huddle and keeping our injury ravaged defense off the field. Yes, I know it was only the Jets, but you could see it as plain as day. Trent Edwards has it.

    Sorry, J.P. but it really wasn’t working. Losman would give us flashes of it, but he never could sustain it. The second half of last year I thought the light bulb finally went on in J.P.’s head, but it was only a flicker of hope. Now don’t get me wrong I like J.P., I think he’s a good kid who tries hard. He may still actually get it in the future, but the NFL is unforgiving and it may have already passed him buy in Buffalo.

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“Ten Tidbits”

·        ‘Take It Like A Man’ reached a whole new level of machismo in the Bills 38-7 loss to the New England Patriots. The Pats toyed with our Bills and, after Trend Edwards opening drive heroics, it was all downhill. I advise those of you who gutted it out until the bitter end to seek professional help.

·        The cheap shot Pats defensive lineman Will Wilfork laid on QB J.P. Losman should be exhibit 1 in any referee training film. It was bush league, unnecessary and a total lack of class. Wilfork was flagged, but he should also be fined and suspended. It really burnt my onions that none of the talking heads made a big deal about the cheap shot. I’ve got one question, what if one of our players did the same thing to Tom Brady? Can you say double standard?

·        Losing J.P. was bad enough, but it was especially difficult to watch our middle linebacker, Paul Posluszny, get carted off the field. The ‘Pos’ was beginning to learn his craft and this injury will set back his learning curve. He was one of the few bright spots on a team going nowhere.

·        Speaking of bright spots, RB Marshawn Lynch ran hard and made a spectacular 8 yard run for the Bills only TD. Marshawn smells the end zone and won’t be denied. The problem I have is, why are the coaches calling a run play on 3^rd and goal from the 8?

·        Another coaching criticism and there are many is, why did the Bills squander almost 90 seconds at the end of the first half. I know Trent Edwards is a rookie QB and we were only down 10 points at the time, but why throw away a perfectly good learning experience for the rookie?

·        It’s good to see Kevin Everett make great strides in his recovery and be able to return to Houston. In an eerily similar incident last week, Houston Texans defensive tackle Cedric Killings laid motionless on the turf after a Texan kickoff return. Both the Colt and Texan players knelt in prayer as Killings was attended to and taken to the hospital. Killings regained feeling and was able to stand by his bed that evening. Another close call, but it’s only a matter of time.

·        It’s a tough game and injuries are a major part of the outcome, just ask the Bills, but the star players are dropping at an alarming rate. With all of the knowledge and technology available today, isn’t there something that can be done to improve the protection provided these athletes.

·        ‘Da Bears’ got trampled by the Cowboys in a Sunday Night laugher. Chicago QB, Rex Grossman, is a mistake waiting to happen and I don’t understand what Coach Lovie Smith sees in him. Lovie is finally contemplating a switch to Brian Griese, but as far as I’m concerned, it’s a day late and a Super Bowl victory short.

·        The Saints are reverting to their alter ego, ‘The Aints’, right before our very eyes. New Orleans is now 0-3 after an embarrassing loss to the Titans on Monday Night. QB Drew Brees was responsible for 5 turnovers and the ‘Aints’ can’t stop anyone. At this rate, it won’t be long before the paper bags start showing up in the Big Easy.

·        It’s been an intriguing start to the season with many surprise teams, good and bad. Teams to bet on; Indy, Houston, Green Bay, Detroit, New England, San Fran, Pittsburgh, Arizona, Tampa, Cleveland, Oakland, Dallas, and Tennessee. Teams to fade; San Diego, Kansas City, Buffalo, Miami, the Jets, Baltimore, St. Louis, Denver, Atlanta, the Giants, ‘Da Bears’, New Orleans.

·        If the Bills can’t beat the Jets at home next week, it may be an awful long time before they get their first win. Here’s hoping the defense pulls it together and Trent Edwards, show us what you got. Oh, I forgot the coaches won’t let him.

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“Take It Like A Man”

    Ouch, that hurt to watch. The Bills 26-3 loss to the Steelers was about as much fun as a rectal exam. It was one, of the many, one sided loses we Bills fans have had to endure for several years now. Our outmanned defense getting pushed around, but fighting hard to keep the opposition out of the end zone, while you’re sitting there hoping for some kind of spark to keep the Bills in the game. A bomb to Lee Evans, a special team return, a huge defensive turnover anything to get Buffalo back in the game. You wait, you hope, you pray, but eventually the inevitable begins to sink in. You hear the snap of the rubber glove and assume the position.

    No doubt about it, the Steelers are the far superior team, especially on defense. The Steel Curtain put the clamps on Buffalo ’s offense in the first half and didn’t let up until the game was firmly in their grasp. It was frustrating to watch. QB J.P. Losman complained, in the post game interview, about the coaching staff being too conservative and not opening up the playbook early. J.P. may have a point there; the offense only produced 1 first down on 5 pass attempts, to go along with 9 running plays, in the first half.

    The reason why the coaches are so conservative is they don’t trust J.P. to do the right thing, especially when it comes to passes over the middle. Losman’s a little slow on the draw and he has a difficult time finding his secondary receivers. The Tight Ends and Running Backs have to stay in to block and, if Lee Evans isn’t open downfield, where are the other options? There aren’t any.

    This is the second game in a row the offense has floundered and J.P. had better be careful what he wishes for, because it doesn’t get any easier this week. A road game against the Pats is on deck and they’re in a foul mood. Coach Bill Beli-Cheat and New England just took apart the vaunted Chargers and they have a point to prove after the video-gate fiasco. Rumor has it the Pats have a complete video library of all the opposing coaches and assistants. There are also rumors, the Pats blocked radio frequencies, used radios in their defensive helmets and put mic’s on their defensive lineman to steal the opposing QB’s signal calls. Talk about espionage, if the U.S. had that kind of info about Iraq , the war would be over already.

    Offensive Coordinator, Steve Fairchild, may opt to grant J.P. his wish and open up the offense early, but if J.P. doesn’t produce, he’d better start looking over his shoulder. Trent Edwards looked great in the preseason and, 2 weeks into the season, fans are already calling for Edwards. I know it’s a little early to be going to Plan B, but after the Pats, we pay the Jets and Cowboys, at home, before the Bye week. If things don’t improve by then, the season will be in the dumper and the coaches may decide to see what they have in Edwards. After all, they drafted Edwards for a reason and the reason may be they don’t want to give an unproven QB, like Losman, a big contract without some positive proof he can do the job.

J.P.’s a good guy, and a positive influence in the community, but that means little if he doesn’t win football games. Personally, I’m hoping J.P. can get the job done, but I’m not betting on it and neither is anyone else. The line for Sunday’s game opened at New England -14 points, has already been bet up to -16.5, and it’s only Tuesday. Who knows how high it’ll go by game time? There’s only one game on at 1:00 P.M., so it looks like another long, probing, Sunday afternoon for J.P. and we Bills fans. In the famous words of that old geezer in the television commercial, ‘If your team’s getting clobbered, take it like a man’.

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“Ten Tidbits”

• 3-2-1, here we go again? Buffalo ’s last second, heartbreaking loss, to the Broncos, is just another Bills opening day disaster. Last year, it was the tough loss to the Pats, a game Buffalo dominated for 3 quarters. In 2004, it was the fiasco verses Jacksonville , the Jags only had 1 good drive the whole game, the last one. In 2002, the Bills came back from 14 points down, to force OT, the Jets returned the kickoff for a TD. It’s one thing to lose, but to have your heart ripped out on opening day is pretty tough to take.
• Can anybody on the Bills defense stop the slant pattern? The Buffalo CB’s are not very good, playing zone and give way too much of a cushion. Time after time, Broncos QB, Jay Cutler, shredded the Bills defense over the middle. It’s gonna be a long year.
• On the flip side, can anybody on the Bills offense catch a pass over the middle? Lee Evans was taken out of the game by the Broncos exceptional secondary and no one was there to pick up the slack. I think I saw Peerless Price’s picture on the side of a milk carton this morning, 1 catch for -2 yards. Give me Josh Reed or Roscoe Parrish over Peerless every time.
• The Buffalo defense is now missing S Ko Simpson, CB Jason Webster, LB Coy Wire, LB Keith Ellison, DE Ryan Denny and DE Anthony Hargrove. Pittsburgh QB ‘Big’ Ben Roethlisberger and RB ‘Fast’ Willie Parker must be foaming at the mouth. How do you spell shellacking?
• Injuries, injuries, injuries. The injury bug hit the Bills especially hard last week, but they weren’t the only team. A look at this week’s NFL injury report reveals a long list of wounded athletes, many gone for the entire season. Maybe, these coaches should stop the lollygagging and rethink how they attack training camp and the preseason. It seems as though these world-class athletes are not ready for prime time.
• Week 1 saw 11 games go Under the total and only 5 games go Over. Its further proof NFL offense’s need a lot more work in the preseason.
• Rookie RB Marshawn Lynch finally showed the Buffalo faithful what he’s capable of, after staying under wraps in August. The talented California Bear fought for a critical 1^st down, losing his helmet in the process (who does your hair?). Lynch also scored his 1^st TD, on a 23 yard run that is sure t make the highlight reel. I know one thing for sure; Willis McGahee wouldn’t have made those plays.
• Speaking of McGahee, Willis gained 77 yards, on 19 carries, in his Ravens debut. That’s a ‘whopping’ 4 yards per carry, in the 27-20 loss to Cincy and don’t forget the fumbled handoff. Some difference maker, I’m sure Willis is enjoying all the nightlife in the Crab Cake City. He’s all yours Baltimore, enjoy.
• If Buffalo plans on winning more than 4 games this year, 184 yards in total offense ain’t gonna cut it. That $75 Million the Bills spent on their offensive line had better start to show some dividends soon, or Ralph’s gonna ralph.
• Football and sports in general seem awful small in comparison to the life threatening injuries suffered by TE, Kevin Everett. It was especially difficult to hear Dr. Andrew Cappuccino describe his conversations with Kevin and his Mother last Sunday. You watch these guys, week in and week out, put their health on the line, but you never really see them as real people, until something like this happens. The good Dr. says the chances of Everett ever walking again are approximately 5%. I’ll take $100, on Kevin Everett, at 20 to 1. Good Luck Kevin.

Don’t forget to log on to my website, www.benspicks.com, for a complimentary NFL selection. Thanks, Ben

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The Fix Is In

July 31, 2007

        In the wake of the NBA referee scandal, I have received numerous questions about cheating in sports. While the thought of people trying to fix games may be a revelation to most sports fans, to me the question is, what took them so long to catch someone?

        You see most sports fans watch their teams win or lose and don’t really pay much attention to what else is happening in a specific sport. The Vegas line maker and gamblers like me, have a different view. We track all the teams, give them power ratings, check the point spread, injury reports, coaching resumes and even travel schedules. They all play a role on how we evaluate a team. That’s why the Vegas lines are so sharp because, even when Vegas makes a mistake, the lines are adjusted to their proper level by the gamblers. When something happens out of the ordinary, we take note.

        How many times have you watched a football, or basketball game, and the spread winner isn’t decided until the last two minutes? It’s probably 7 out of 10 times. That’s how sharp the lines are and why a slight tweak by a referee, or player, can totally change the outcome. There’s a lot of money to be made by some unscrupulous player, or referee. The cash is out there, all these cheaters have to do is have the cahones to follow through. In the case of an NBA referee, only making $200,000 per year, and in debt to gamblers, the temptation is too strong to ignore.

        Is Tim Donaghy the only referee to cheat on a game? Hell No, he’s the only one dumb enough to get caught. There have been many betting scandals in the past, but those get buried in the archives because it’s bad for business. In baseball, it was Pete Rose and the Black Sox scandal. In college basketball Arizona State, in the late 80’s and Boston College, a few years ago, where caught with players point shaving. In college football, a RB in the MAC Conference was disciplined two years ago. In the NFL, RB Paul Hornung was suspended in the 60’s and don’t forget the great Broadway Joe Namath was reprimanded for associating with known gamblers in his heyday. I still feel the N.Y. Jet upset of the Baltimore Colts, in the 69 Superbowl, was the biggest fix ever. Remember Joe Willie guaranteed victory as a 19-point underdog. What did he know that the rest of us didn’t? What about the Pittsburgh v Seattle Superbowl 2 years ago, how many times did the Seahawks get jobbed?

        If a sport doesn’t have credibility, it might as well be wrestling. That’s why this scandal is such a big deal. If people don’t think they are viewing an honest game, what is their incentive to watch it, buy tickets, or bet on it? Personally, I have made some significant cash, in the NFL, betting against players I believed were cheaters. Most were QB’s that had the ability to decide a game with the mere flick of a wrist. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not an easy task to flush out these guys and it cost me quite a few losers to do it. The trick is, when you see something out of the ordinary, make a mental note and remember it for future reference.

        One current NFL ‘Golden Boy’, and Superbowl winner, has a knack for throwing interceptions at the most inopportune time. He has all the fans, and sportscasters, hoodwinked. They attribute those turnovers to his gunslinger mentality. When I bring this point up, people look at me in disbelief, they’ve been brainwashed by the talking heads. Myself, I know better, especially after watching him throw 6 interceptions in a playoff game. It was a very profitable day, thank you very much. I’m sure glad he put off his retirement.

        Now don’t get me wrong, not all games are fixed, but there are many that leave you wondering, what the hell is going on. What can we do about it? Not much, especially when some obnoxious, little, peon, ref thinks he’s Superman with a whistle. One thing’s for sure, this scandal has focused a spotlight on NBA referees. The light will send the rats scurrying and the upcoming year, in the NBA, will be fairest ever. You can bet on it!

Next week we will return to our NFL Divisional updates. If you miss any, you can go to my website, www.benspicks.com. Don’t forget to go there and sign up for my NFL picks. It’s only $50 for the whole year. Thanks, Ben

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How Lowe Can You Go?

July 11, 2007

        Kevin Lowe, the General Manager of the Edmonton Oilers, is a despicable human being. Lowe is in danger of losing his job, after the Oilers lost several players, and missed the playoffs. The offer sheet he extended to Buffalo Sabres Restricted Free Agent, Thomas Vanek, for 7 years and $50 Million, was nothing more than a publicity stunt. Yes, it was within in his right to do so, but that doesn’t mean what he did was ‘right’ The Lowe-life purposely broke a gentleman’s agreement, among NHL GM’s. He also waited until Buffalo lost both Chris Drury and Daniel Briere, to Free Agency. The Sabres had no choice but to sign Vanek, or face the continued wrath of their disgruntled fans. Buffalo GM, Darcy Regier, called him before hand to let him know it was an exercise in futility. That’s the last piece of info he needed to pull the trigger. The only thing Mr. Lowe accomplished, besides making himself look good, in Edmonton, was jacking up the Buffalo payroll and NHL salaries.

        Edmonton, a small market team, had no intention spending that kind of money. If the Oilers were really interested in improving their team, why didn’t they go after any of the other players available? Why did they target the one guy they knew they couldn’t get? Why aren’t they now extending other offers? Did Lowe owe Vanek’s agent, Steve Bartlett, a favor? Does Bartlett now owe Lowe a favor? Who knows for sure, but I know one thing, if the Sabres had actually passed on signing Vanek, the Lowe-life would be on the unemployment line right now.

        I also know, Vanek didn’t want to sign with the Oilers and was happier than a pig in doo-doo, when the Sabres agreed to the deal. Since when does an agent, who wants to sign a contract with team B, negotiate that contract with team E. Something is wrong with this new NHL system and they better fix it soon, or it’s back to the lockout.

        Now, as a community service, and to relieve some of the pain of this off season, Ben’s Picks brings you a little Kevin Lowe humor:

How many Edmonton Oilers does it take to change a light bulb? Only one, Kevin Lowe can screw it up all by himself.

        Kevin Lowe has a book on every Free Agent in the NHL, and he’s almost through coloring them all.

        What did Kevin Lowe say after his wife blew in his ear? ‘Thanks for the refill Honey.’

        Kevin Lowe went on his honeymoon alone. His wife had already seen Niagara Falls.

        Kevin Lowe is so dumb, he thinks an innuendo is Italian for suppository.

        Kevin Lowe’s butt is so big, he got stopped at the airport for having 200 pounds of crack.

        What do Kevin Lowe and a beer bottle have in common? They’re both empty from the neck up.

        Kevin Lowe calling for help, ‘heello, iss tthhiss thhee sshhoop iii boouugghht thhee vviibbrrattorr ffrroomm. yes. ccaann yyoouu tteell mmee hhooww ttoo ttuurrnn tthhee tthhiinngg ooffff’

        Poster in Kevin Lowe’s office, ‘Eagles may soar, but weasels don’t get sucked into jet engines’.

        I’d like to see things from Kevin Lowe’s point of view, but I can’t seem to get my head that far up my butt.

Thanks, Ben

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Black Sunday

July 2, 2007

As the calendar turned from June to July, Sunday morning graced WNY with a beautiful summer day. The sun was shinning, the birds were singing, but today was not your normal, laid back, Sunday. Today was July 1^st, the day NHL Free Agents are able to field offers from other teams. I tried to enjoy my morning paper, with a good cup of coffee, but a feeling of dread began to engulf me. No matter what I did, I couldn’t shake the feeling that today would be the last day Chris Drury and Daniel Briere would call Buffalo home.

        It had been 6 weeks since Ottawa eliminated Buffalo, but our Co-Captains were left to dangle in the wind. I can still picture Drury making kick saves, off each of his ankles, and taking a puck to the face, still bleeding from the stitches, at the press conference. Yes, the Sabre front office was saying all the right things, but you knew the writing was on the wall. It was only a matter of hours now.

        As Sunday rolls on, and the feeling of impending doom grows, word has it Briere bolts to Philly for a $52 Million deal. Wow! I hate the Flyers, but you can’t blame the guy. To think we could’ve had him, in January, for 5 years and $25 Million. What’s Darcy thinking? Shouldn’t we be a little proactive and lock these guys up before it gets to this point? Some forward thinking by these bean counters would help once in a while.

        Sunday afternoon begins with a little yard work and a chance to forget about the impending doom. As Sunday evening rolls in, still no word on Drury. My mind starts to play tricks on me. I fire up the computer, go to the rumor mill, and there it is “L.A., Colorado, Buffalo and the Rangers” are still in the running. A ray of light begins to pierce the clouds, could it be? Do we still have a chance? He’s the heart and soul of this team and if anyone deserves a big payday it’s him. Maybe we still have a shot, maybe this isn’t the end, but just as I get myself all worked up, the other shoe drops. Drury goes to the Rangers, $35 Million for 5 years. What? Didn’t we offer Chris $30 Million for the same term? That’s ‘only’ a difference of $1 Million a year, they couldn’t come to a compromise? Then it hits me and, just like the Sopranos finale, everything turns to black....We didn’t whack Drury, he whacked us!

        With Drury, it’s not about the last Million dollars, it’s about winning the Cup and the Sabre franchise doesn’t want to make that commitment. In the Rangers, he sees a franchise that will do what it takes to get to that level. Chris Drury sifted through all the bull and came to the conclusion, the Sabres would never go all out to reach the ultimate goal.

The Sabre front office expects the fans to drain their pockets, and the players to empty their hearts, for a shot at the Cup, but when push comes to shove, the key to the vault is nowhere to be found. They let players like Danny Briere, Mike Greer, Jay McKee and J.P. Dumont walk, but expect an all out commitment from everyone else. Well, it doesn’t work that way. Maybe if Darcy Regier and Larry Quinn were really as smart as they think they are, they would’ve saw this coming and nipped it in the bud. Isn’t that their job? But the bean counters didn’t have the foresight, to find the ‘key’, until it was too late.

The reality is the Sabres are doomed to a certain level of mediocrity. We can be good, but never good enough to win it all. It’s a hard pill to swallow, but it’s the truth. Now, I know what it feels like, when Tony Soprano puts your head in a bowling bag.

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June 27, 2007

Hello Boys and Girls and football fans of all ages. Today you’re in for a real treat, It’s Professor Benny’s preview of the NFC West. Now this isn’t your normal, boring, la-de-da NFL preview. This is the Professor’s own, unique take, on the upcoming NFL season, with an eye towards wagering. That’s right Boys and Girls, it’s hard to believe, but people do actually bet on the NFL. The Professor’s job is to enlighten you, before your Bookie ‘lightens’ your collection of portraits, of our dead forefathers (Ben Franklin’s my favorite). Now, for those of you who wish to enhance your knowledge and bankroll, please read on. For the rest of you unenlightened Neanderthals, please go about your usual, pathetic, losing way. That’s why Bookies drive Cadillacs.

NFC West Preview

San Fran Niners 10-6 – That’s right sports fans, I predict the Niners will take the next step and unseat Seattle for the division crown. Coach Mike ‘The Suit’ Nolan is now in his 3^rd year and this team has shown steady improvement under his watch. QB Alex Smith and RB Frank Gore hit their stride last year and the addition of WR’s Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie will help stretch the field for an improving offense. On defense, 5 new Free Agents, including our own, overpriced, Nate Clements, will help improve an inconsistent unit. Bet on this team early in the year, especially as a dog, as they will surprise several teams. Lean towards the OVER when the Niners take the field.

Seattle Seahawks 9-7 – The Seahawks played through some major injuries last year and still gave the Bears all they could handle in the playoffs. Coach Mike Holmgren brings consistency to this franchise. Last year’s offense was torn apart by injuries, but QB Matt Hasselbeck and RB Shaun Alexander should be ready to go. The question is, for how long? WR Deion Branch was a nice addition and another year in the system will only help. Jim Mora takes over as secondary coach and needs to cut down on the big plays the Seahawks allowed last year. Bet on this team early and be on the lookout for any injuries, especially on offense. With a powerful offense and susceptible secondary, OVER is usually the way to go. If this aging offense starts to sputter, look the other way.

St. Louis Rams 7-9 – Scott Linehan begins his second year as head coach of this Dr. Jekyl / Mr. Hyde squad. The Rams have an excellent offense led by the steady QB, Marc Bulger. This team now has more of a ball control attack and Bulger likes to spread the field with his excellent weapons. At RB is the outstanding Stephen Jackson, and they have a stable full of WR’s led by Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce and Drew Bennett. The Mr. Hyde defense is where things get ‘hairy’ for this team. The Ram defense, led by Jim Haslett, allowed a league high 145 yards per game rushing last year and it doesn’t look like there’s going to be much of an improvement. St. Louis has a tough early schedule, so I would stay away from this team early, especially as a favorite. Look to the OVER and evaluate the Rams defense as the season goes on.

Arizona Cardinals 5-11 – Say Ba-Bye to ‘Gary Coleman’, I mean Dennis Green, and say hello to Ken Whisenhunt, the Cardinals new head coach. Ken is from the Steeler school of coaching and is looking to put that imprint on this perennial loser. That might be what he wants to do, but it’s not going to happen overnight. The Cards are solid at the skill positions on offense with QB Matt Leinart, RB Edgerrin James, and WR’s Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. The problem lies in a very weak offensive line. The line needs to give, ‘Pretty Boy’, Leinart the time to find those options. The Arizona defense does not have much talent and is also switching between the 4-3 / 3-4 defenses. The new offensive and defensive systems will cause a tremendous amount of grief for this team early in the year. The Cards also have a tough early schedule, so I would stay away, until they show some signs of life. Mr. Whisenhunt may want to emulate those dominant teams from Pittsburgh, with solid defense and a ball control offense, but it’s going to take a long time before the talent and intelligence are in place. Especially in Arizona.

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“’Til Death Do Us Part”

June 19, 2007

        Bear with me for a moment, please. We all know this crotchety old fart that’s been married for 47 years. He’s 88, got a ton of money, but he’s never satisfied. His devoted spouse would do anything for him and has stood by his side, through thick and thin, for 47 years. This old man’s got the world by the balls, yet all he does is whine and complain about how he never gets a fair shake.

In the mid 60’s, the then young couple, couldn’t get enough of each other. They spawned a brood of devoted offspring. Yet, old crotchety was never happy and always threatened to leave.

In the early 70’s, they decided to put their troubles behind them and built a wonderful new home in the South towns for all their children. This seemed to work for a while, but as the 80’s arrived, the children began to leave and the big house seemed empty. The Miss’s began to lose her luster and old crotchety started to get restless again. The old cheapskate stopped spending his money and began looking for greener pastures.

Then, as the 90’s arrived, a wonderful thing began to happen. Their devoted children began to return home with children of their own. The big house came alive again and old crotchety began to loosen the purse strings. The more he spent, the happier everyone became. It was one big happy family, everyone looking out for each other and working towards the same goal.

It was a wonderful time, but in the late 90’s, old crotchety couldn’t handle prosperity. Instead of being happy for all the good things he had, all he did was act like a little 3 year old who didn’t have the biggest piece of cake. He had to have it all.

Now, in his twilight years, instead of sharing his greatest achievement with his devoted family, the crotchety old fart plans on taking it to his grave.

You may ask, “Who is this crotchety old fart and why is he acting like such a butt hole towards the people that made him what he is today?” The answer is Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson and his spouse and family are you and I, the good people of Buffalo and Western New York.

In a recent Buffalo News article, the crotchety old fart stated the Buffalo Bills will not be sold until after he dies. What this means is, when Ralph dies, the team will be sold to the highest bidder. No provisions have been made to keep the team in WNY. The Bills are presently worth over 600 Million dollars, not bad for a $25,000 investment in 1959. That's a 24,000% return, if my math is correct.

Yes, Mr. Wilson had the foresight to purchase the franchise, but the reason why it’s worth 600 million today is because of our devotion to the team. We bought the tickets, we wore the jerseys, and we filled the stadium. Not only that, but we built “Ralph Wilson Stadium?” with taxpayer money and we also pay the team a yearly subsidy for the “privilege” of having them here. That money comes from all our taxes, even the non fans.

In a marriage both spouses are equal partners, each is entitled to half the assets. In this marriage, we are entitled to exactly 0. The blood, sweat, and tears, we as a community poured into this team, for 47 years, is worth nothing, zilch, nada. All we did was make old Ralphie boy even richer then he already was.

Now, when Ralph passes, some out of town billionaire will swoop down and steal “our” team right out from under our noses. What about Tom Gallisano and Jeremy Jacobs you might ask? Yes, they have deep pockets, but there are only 32 NFL franchises and the Bills will be worth much more than 600 million in another market. Without Mr. Wilson’s help, Mr. Gallisano and Mr. Jacobs will not be able to compete and Ralph refuses to help.

Ralph would like to be championed as the man who stood up for the little guy and the small market teams, but that’s not what we’re going to remember Ralph for. We’re going to remember the crotchety old fart who refused to compromise and wanted to squeeze every last dime out of this community, even in death. So, Ralph next time you’re “whistling past the grave yard” remember, we’re whistling right along with you.

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“That’s Whacked”

June 12, 2007

        “Woke up this morning with a blue moon in my eye”, wondering what was up with the Sopranos finale? The final scene is one that will be debated until eternity. Is Tony dead, or does life go on? Like everyone else, I was disappointed at first, but the more I thought about it, the more I liked it. Life is complicated, unpredictable and can’t be wrapped up in a “tidy little box”. Just like Tony, we always have to be vigilant and aware of our surroundings. One minute you’re waving “bye-bye” to your grandkids, the next you’re road pizza, like Phil Leotardo.

        The more I though about it, the more I wrapped myself up like a pretzel. Then the doorbell rang and my Mailman handed me a “tidy little box”. What was in it, even I didn’t know at the time. What had I ordered and forgotten about? I opened it and realized, it was the collection of Buffalo Sabres Medallions I had ordered, for my nephew, 6 weeks ago.

        I looked through the collection and thought to myself, I ordered these when the Sabres were in full flight, the playoffs were just beginning, the town was Cup Crazy and we were destined for greatness. Now, I sadly realized, that’s just a distant memory. What a difference a few short weeks make.

        I looked at each one of those medallions knowing that this thrilling team would never be the same. Someone was getting “whacked” and I wondered which neck, or necks would come under Darcy’s hatchet. Was Captain Chris Drury’s head going to be found in some bowling bag, like Ralph Cifaretto? How about Danny Briere, would he be sleeping with the fishes, like Big Pussy? Thomas Vanek, an unpredictable young gun, would he be put out of his misery, like Christopher Multisanti? How about Teppo Numminen, would he be left to rot at the retirement home, like Uncle Junior? What about “Florio”, I mean Dainius Zubrus, would he return to “The Old Country” as quickly as he came? The erratic Max Afinofenov, would he take a shotgun shell to the face, like Tony Blundetto? Then there’s numb nuts, like Dimitri Kalinin and Jaroslav Spacek, would they be lost in the Pine Barrens, like Christopher and Paulie Walnuts?

        The more I thought about it, the more I realized, no matter what happens, I’m not going to like the ending. You watch these guys grow and develop, right before your eyes. Though you don’t really know them, you build a mental bond, because you’re all reaching for the same goal. You cheer, you jeer, you worry, you wait. Then the ax falls, everything goes black, and it’s all over.

What does it all mean? What’s the point? Life, like sports, is a fleeting moment. A beautiful goal, a come from behind win, a thrilling victory in overtime. Enjoy them for what they are, right then and there, because you don’t know what tomorrow will bring, just like in real life. So, sit back, have some onion rings and in the immortal words of the annoying A.J. Soprano, “Focus on the good times”. Thank you, Sopranos and Thank you, Sabres. It was a hell of a ride. Ben

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“Ten Tidbits”

May 29, 2007

·        It’s now Drury versus Briere in Sabres off season. It’s ironic that our co-captains, and two of the classiest team players in the game, are reduced to a one-on-one competition. It didn’t have to come to this. It would’ve been nice for the Sabres front office to have a little foresight. They could’ve locked up these guys, years ago, for a lot less money. Hey Darcy and Tom, sometimes you have to spend a lot of money, to ‘save’ a lot of money. The worst part of the whole deal is, we might lose both of them and watch out for a backdoor offer to Thomas Vanek. Losing those 3 would be tragic.

·        It’s refreshing to see young Bills players like J.P Losman and Lee Evans taking their leadership roles to heart. I’m sick and tired of all these aging veterans, a.k.a Locker Room Lawyers, whine and complain and undermine the team. We now have a nucleus of quality, smart, character players who can grow together. Now hurry up and grow.

·        The Yanks can have all the team meetings they want, but they are in big trouble. N.Y. is 13.5 games behind the Red Sox and their pitching staff is in shambles. If the Yankees are hoping for Roger The ‘Mercenary’ Rocket to save them, they better not hold their collective breaths, he can only pitch once every 5 games. Not only that, but their bats are no longer getting the job done. It’s been a total team collapse, from the front office, to the bat boys. The Yanks streak of 13 straight playoff appearances is in ‘Jeopardy’ and not even Alex Trabec can help with the solution.

·        The Anaheim Ducks just got through putting away the Ottawa Senators in game 1, of the Stanley Cup Finals, 3-2. The Ducks hit everything that moved and the Senators cried ‘Uncle’, in the late going. Ottawa lost despite scoring 2 power play goals and having a huge man advantage throughout the game. Sen’s goalie ‘Sugar’ Ray Emery got peppered and dwindled in crunch time. We knew he wasn’t very good, too bad the Sabres couldn’t take advantage of that weakness. The Ducks in 6.

·        Maybe it was a good thing the Sabres lost when they did. Follow my logic here: If the Ottawa Senators are bigger and stronger than the Sabres; and Anaheim Ducks are bigger and stronger than the Senators; what was going to happen to the Sabres in the Finals? You got it slick, we would’ve got pounded into submission. Players like Jay Mckee and Mike Greer may not be ‘sexy’ Free Agent signings, but when things get down to the nitty gritty, they can be in my corner any time. I hope the Sabres front office has taken notice and Darcy makes an ‘unsexy’ signing or two.

·        Mike Vick is in ‘deep dog doo-doo’ over dog fighting allegations on his Virginia property. The Feds, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, have taken notice. Now an informant has come forward stating Vick was a ‘heavyweight’ in the illegal activity. The Commissioner will not sit still for this, just ask Pacman Jones. It was rumored, after saying all the right things to the Commish, in NY, Pacman left his office and went directly to a strip club. Mr. Goodell was not amused and promptly banished Mr. Jones for 1 year. Nice knowing you Mike, now you can join your brother, and ‘Ron Mexico’, in the ‘Vick Hall of Shame’. Kudos to the Commish, keep up the good work.

·        Have you seen the newest ‘Amber Alert’? I sure hope they find Little Dimitri “Can’t Get It Out’ Kalinin and Tiny Jaroslav ‘Spaz’ Spacek soon, I know their Mothers must be worried sick about them.

·        Condolences to the family of Pats Defensive Lineman Marquise Hill, after his drowning in Louisiana. I read he was an excellent swimmer, but I can’t get over the fact that he didn’t have a life vest on. These athletes today have the feeling that they’re invincible, like Superman, but hey, s**t happens. It’s better to be safe, than sorry and the sorry list getting awful long.

·        Has Jason Giambi stopped talking yet, or are the steroids still eating away at his brain? Hey Jason, shut up and do your job, while you still have one.

·        I think I have a ‘Man Crush’ on Bills Rookie, LB Paul Posluszny, a fine physical specimen. I can’t wait until preseason and watch him take apart some unsuspecting RB. I’m getting goose bumps just thinking about it.

Don’t forget to check out my FREE Daily pick at www.benspicks.com. Thanks, Ben

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“A Sabres Postmortem”

May 22, 2007

 The 2006-2007 Buffalo Sabres were thought to be a team of destiny, but Buffalo was unprepared for their playoff series with the Ottawa Senators. You would’ve thought facing the avenging Senators would bring their ‘A’ game, it didn’t. Buffalo was down 2-0, in game 1, before they realized they were in a hockey game. The Sabres fought back, but it was too little, too late, a 5-2 loss.

Down 1-0, in games, Buffalo poured it on in the 1^st period of game 2. The Sabres came in waves building a 2-0 lead. That was the team we came to see, peppering Sen’s goalie Ray Emery and exposing Ottawa’s weakness. Then, for some unexplained reason, Buffalo decided they would pay the extra 2cent postage and mail it in. Ottawa built a 3-2 lead, late in the 3^rd period. It was do or die when Daniel Briere’s last second goal tickled the twine and sent the game into OT. Then the feeling hit you again, this was a team of destiny. We thought Buffalo would come out with their sweaters on fire and win it in OT, just like Mad Max’s swan dive against the Rangers. It wasn’t meant to be. The Sabres sleepwalked through the 1^st OT and finally succumbed to a ‘Seeing Eye’ knuckler in double OT. This wasn’t supposed to happen, down 2-0 at home and headed to Ottawa.

The Sabres 1-0 loss to the Senators, in game 3, was a difficult pill to swallow. Like a good friend on life support, it put the Sabres in an insurmountable 3-0 hole and you knew the inevitable conclusion. You could almost hear the beep....beep....beep gaining momentum in the background. You wanted to ‘believe’, but we all knew the insurmountable odds. How could it happen? Wasn’t this supposed to be the team of destiny? ‘One Team, One Goal’ was the slogan, but it was the most ‘one-sided, one goal’, game I’d ever seen. From top to bottom the Sabres were out played, out hustled, and out coached. There are no excuses for that pitiful effort. The Presidents Trophy winner was up against it and their collars began to tighten.

Frustrated, I put my Sabre gear in storage and came to grips with the obvious. The players were all saying the right things, before game 4, but I couldn’t bear to listen. Then Ottawa Coach ‘Yosemite Sam’, a.k.a. Bryan Murray, began talking about playing in the Cup finals and I began to get angry. The more I thought about it, the madder I got. Who does this guy think he is? The Sabres may lose, but they won’t go down without a fight. I got my gear back out and said, ‘screw it, this is my team and I’m going down with the ship’, as did about 8,000 other die hards in HSBC Arena.

Game 4 was a revelation, a decisive 3-2 Sabres win. Ottawa tried to pour it on, but Buffalo prevailed. Lindy Ruff shortened the bench, Buffalo cut down on their mistakes and breathed new life into the series. We were coming home, a win would make it 3-2, then anything could happen. Thoughts of the 2004 Boston Red Sox began to play in my head. Johnny Damon, Big Papi, the ‘bloody sock’ and Manny being Manny. Could it be, I thought? Can we really come back from a 3-0 deficit and win? The Sox did it to erase 86 years if frustration, why not the Sabres? Were we really the team of destiny? Just get us back to Ottawa, I thought, with the Sens history of failure, anything could happen.

Game 6 arrived on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, amid much anticipation. The approximately 10,000 ‘believers’ in the Plaza would party well into the night, after a Sabres victory. Buffalo took a 1-0 lead, but Ottawa faced their fear and gained a 2-1 advantage. Buffalo valiantly fought back and sent the game into OT, tied at 2. It was all on the line in OT, when Ryan Miller made a spectacular save to deny Jason Spezza. A wide open net and Miller was there, certainly this was the team of destiny. The feeling began to build, but like a cruel joke the ‘Hockey Gods’ got the last laugh. Daniel Alfredsson, last years goat, found redemption and the ‘bizarro world reflection’ of last years series was complete. The dream was dead and, as fast as Bryan Miller can say ‘sssssuffin sssssuccotash’, the ‘Party in the Plaza’ turned into the ‘Wake on Washington Street’. Cause of death? Choking.

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“How Does That Taste Big Apple?”

May 8, 2007

        Buffalo is now officially King of NY hockey. I’ll have to admit I wasn’t very confident, or happy, after the Rangers scored with about 3 minutes left in game 5. NY took a 1-0 lead in the pivotal game, of their playoff series with the Sabres. Buffalo dominated the game from the opening face off, but there they stood, staring a 3-2 series deficit in the face.

NY, it was right in front of you, there for the taking. 16 seconds from a commanding 3-2 series lead. 16 seconds from escaping with victory, in a game you did not deserve. 16 seconds away from Utopia.

They dropped the puck and, in the blink of an eye, the series was over. But, like the “old switcheroo”, in a great spy thriller, it was the Rangers who tumbled to their death. A mere 7.7 seconds remained when “Captain Clutch”, Chris Drury, buried a rebound that will live in Sabres infamy. The series was over right then and there. Game, set, and match. It didn’t matter the game was only tied and going into overtime. It didn’t matter that the Rangers still had a home game on deck. It didn’t matter what buttons Rangers Coach Tom Renney pushed. No team was coming back from that cold hard slap.

You have to give the Rangers credit, they did not go away without a fight. NY battled back several times, in a 5-4, game 6 loss, but in the end the “cream” did rise to the top, Mr. Renney. The problem I’m having today, with the Rangers, is this quote from Captain Jaromir “Girly Man” Jagr, “We gave them this series. They didn’t win it. We gave it to them.” Well thank you very much Jaromir, that’s very nice of you. I would just like to know, where all this charity occurred?

Was it game 1, a 5-2 dominating Sabres win? Was it game 2, a game Buffalo spotted NY a 2-1, 3^rd period, lead and won 3-2? Was it game 3, a 2-1 Sabre loss in double OT? Maybe it was game 4, another 2-1 Sabre loss, where Daniel Briere was wrongly denied, via video replay, the tying goal with 12 seconds remaining? You obviously can’t be talking about game 6, a 5-4 Sabres win. The refs gave your team 3, 3^rd period, power play chances and you still couldn’t get it done. That leaves game 5, a game the Sabres dominated, out shooting your team 40-23. A game your team was 7.7 seconds away from winning. Sorry, Jaromir your team didn’t give Buffalo that game, or the series, they took it.

If you look back at this series, each game had a common thread, as the game went on Buffalo got stronger. The only reason the Rangers were competitive was because of goalie Henrik Lundqvist. It certainly wasn’t because of part-timer Jagr or Sean “Big Mouth No Action” Avery. Talk about disappearing, Avery would put Houdini to shame.

Face reality Jaromir, teams are a reflection of their captain and your team is old and mentally weak. The fact is, Jagr will never win a Cup without “Super” Mario Lemieux by his side.

I have yet to see it, but I hear there’s video of Jaromir actually crying during a post game 6 interview. Somehow, I can’t picture Chris Drury doing the same. Give me “Captain Clutch” over the “Girly Man” every time.

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“You Can’t Get There From Here”

May 1, 2007

        Last year, after a horrendous start, the Bills and their new coaching staff, turned the season around and got headed in the right direction. Buffalo finished the year at a respectable 7-9 and played several playoff teams to the wire. QB J.P. Losman started to act like a 1^st round draft pick and the Bills porous defense began a slow climb to respectability. The future looked bright. With another year of experience and a solid draft, Buffalo would be on the road to somewhere we haven’t been in a long time, the 2007 playoffs.

The Bills held the 12^th overall pick and it was a great opportunity to fill the major holes on an up and coming team. Those holes were especially evident on defense, where overpriced veterans Nate Clements, Takeo Spikes and London Fletcher were kicked to the curb. This year’s draft was especially loaded with skilled linebackers and swift cornerbacks to help Buffalo fill those holes. The road map to the playoffs was a straight line, point A to point B. The “Octogenarian Army”, led by GM Marv Levy and Coach Dick Jauron, a defensive specialist, certainly know how to read a map and would take the direct route to the postseason.

        I waited patiently Saturday afternoon, as the Bills selection approached, and was a little disappointed when LB Patrick Wills went to the Niners, with the selection prior to ours. No matter, LB Paul Posluszny, from Penn State, would fill the bill. When the Bills selected Running Back Marshawn Lynch, I was a little surprised. Then I began to think, we do need a capable RB now that Willis McGhee is spreading his demon seed in Baltimore, so maybe picking Lynch was a good idea. Buffalo did sign several Free Agents on the Offensive Line and Lynch is a capable RB. In fact he’s probably better than Wills, he’s faster, he can catch the ball and he knows how to speak English. He even stated he, and his whole family, would be moving to Buffalo from California. Now if that’s not the anti-Willis what is? So, I came to grips with the selection. Yes, it was a slight detour, but we needed a RB and we got a good one.

        It would be a long wait for Buffalo’s 2^nd round selection, so I buckled up my safety belt and watched the ESPN scenery along the way. Look at Mel Kiper, I wonder how many gallons of oil he needs to do his hair? Poor Brady Quinn got left on the side of the road, with his thumb hanging out. Teams kept driving by, Oakland, Cleveland, Miami, but no one would pick him up. Finally, Cleveland lets him in the Dawg Pound, on the second trip around. That Chris Mortenson hates the Bills guts, must have something to do with the fact we did a drive by on his buddy, Tom Donahoe. What’s the matter Chris, isn’t anyone at One Bills Drive spoon feeding you inside info anymore? What the hell is Keyshawn Johnson doing there. Talk about a guy full of it, he compares every Wide Receiver to himself. Earth to Keyshawn, it’s not all about you.

        Finally, the 2^nd round begins and LB Posluszny is still waiting, but it’s 12 more picks until Buffalo’s selection. Then it happens, the Bills trade up with the Lions and select Posluszny. Now you’re talking, Marv has finally got this caravan headed in the right direction. Posluszny is a stud from Linebacker U, Penn State. He’s a 2-time winner of the Bednarik Award (Defensive Player of the year). Posluszny can play inside or out and has been compared to former Bill, Shane Conlan. He’s a character player and is already talking about filling the leadership roll left by London Fletcher.

The selection was a perfect fit and, with several more defensive selections, Buffalo will be making a bee line to the Playoffs. Then, the unthinkable happens, in the 3^rd round, Buffalo reaches a fork in the road and decides to take the scenic route. The Bills select Quarterback Trent Edwards, from Stanford. A QB? That’s the last thing the Bills need. J.P.’s the starter, Craig Nall is a capable backup, why do we need to waste a 3^rd rounder on a bench warmer, we still need defensive help. I’m sure Mr. Edwards warrants this selection, but not by the Bills.

I was still shaking my head on Sunday. Why do we need a backup QB? What was up with the detour? Then, with their 4^th round selection, the Bills pick RB Dwayne Wright, from Fresno State. I was stunned, another Running Back. No way! What’s going on here? Why do we need another guy to warm the bench? Was Marv losing it?

I sat down for a second in a daze, unable to comprehend what was happening. Then it hit me, like a semi coming in the wrong direction, “you can’t get there from here”, and the 2007 Playoff Caravan came to a screeching halt. Unloading all those high priced veterans, drafting the best player available instead of the positions we need. It finally became obvious what was happening, this is not the road to the 2007 Playoffs, this is the road map to 2008, and beyond. Talk about letting the air out of your tires. Another year of mediocrity, another year of riding in the back seat, another year of waiting. Will we be better off in the long run? Probably. But it sure sucks waiting at this red light.

Don’t forget Mark Clement’s derby selections will be available, May 4^th, on my website, www.benspicks.com. Thanks and Go Sabres, Ben

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“Working For a Living”

April 17, 2007

        I just got through watching the Buffalo Sabres beat the NY Islanders, 3-2, in Game 3, of the opening round, of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The game and the score were, in many ways, anything but impressive. What was impressive is that it was a workman like effort, by the superior team. Buffalo now holds a 2-1 edge in the series.

        The Sabres did the same thing in game 1, a 4-1 win. In that contest Buffalo dominated the early going, but only held a 1-0 lead. The game Islanders caught a break, on a 2 on 1 odd man rush, and tied the score.

Did the Sabres get down on themselves? No. Did the Sabres overreact? No. Did the Sabres start pressing in front of the disappointed home crowd? No. What the Sabres did was get back to what got them here in the first place, good old fashioned hard work. Buffalo continued to take the play to the Islanders and won easily 4-1.

        In game 2 Islanders Coach, Ted Nolan, changed tactics and decided to attack the Sabres in their own end. Teddy sent 2, sometimes 3, checkers into the Sabres end and clogged up the Sabres defense. The defensemen were unable to get off that first pass. The Islanders took advantage, by scoring 2 early goals, before the Sabres could adjust. One of those goals was especially awful as Ryan Miller made a huge blunder. To compound matters, Islander goalie, Rick Dipietro, was making his comeback from a concussion injury, and played an excellent game. He stoned the Sabres several times and clearly played better than his counterpart.

Did the Sabres get down on themselves? No. Did the Sabres overreact? No. Did the Sabres start pressing in front of their home crowd? No. What the Sabres did, once they figured out the Islander tactics, was good old fashioned hard work. Buffalo bore down on the Islanders and eventually tied up the score 2-2, despite Dipietro’s heroics. In the 3^rd period NY took advantage of a questionable power play and took the lead 3-2. The Sabres again went back to work, but ran out of time.

Now the series was tied at 1-1 and you would’ve thought the world was coming to an end, by listening to the call in shows. It was all gloom and doom. Miller stinks, we should have kept Biron, Dipietro is going to get on a hot streak, Teddy Nolan is going to get even, we lost home ice advantage, and so on. Yes, the Islanders gave it their all and won the game, but NY only played 1 good period out of 6. The Sabres didn’t lose the game, they ran out of time. What was with all the panic?

Did the Sabres get down on themselves? No. Did the Sabres overreact? No. Did the Sabres start pressing because their fans were having a cow? No. The Sabres went back to work in game 3, on the Island, and took care of business, 3-2. Miller played great, Dipietro came back down to earth, and even Teddy Noland couldn’t turn slacker Alexei Yashin into Mark Messier.

The Islanders come to play and will not go away easily, but the Sabres are clearly the superior team. Buffalo needs to work hard, stick to their game plan and they will emerge victorious. The Stanley Cup Playoff is a 2 month grind, one bad period, or one bad game, is not the end of the world. Buffalo is battle tested by their run last year and this team is on a mission. Every team the Sabres face is going to give them their best shot. Ottawa, Pittsburgh, Tampa, New Jersey, the Rangers, it doesn’t matter, it’s not going to be a cakewalk. So, Buffalo fans I’ve just got one piece of advice, don’t forget your lunch pail, punch the time clock and buckle up your chinstrap, because the Sabres, like every other playoff team, know they’re “Working For a Living”, and so should you.

Part II of “Betting The Derby”, by Mark Clement, will be available next week. Mark’s Derby selections will be available on my website, www.benspicks.com, on May 4^th. Thanks, Ben

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“Betting The Derby – Part I”

April 10, 2007

        Welcome Horse Racing fans, I’ve got a real treat for you. Our guest columnist is local resident, Mark Clement. Mark is the winner of the prestigious “2006 Horse Player World Series”, held at The Orleans, in Las Vegas. Mark is going to give us an informative ‘heads up’ on picking a winner for the Kentucky Derby. So, pay attention, you just might learn something.

        “Thoroughbreds are like escalators. They are either going up or coming down” says Professor Gordon Jones in his book “Gordon Jones To Win”. He compares the wagering on thoroughbreds, with the Wall Street Stock Market: “you have to catch the ones that are getting good early when the price is right, and you have to drop the ones that have peaked as soon as they start the downward plunge”.

        The Kentucky Derby personifies Professor Jones’ comment with an all encompassing complexity which challenges the best handicappers’ efforts to simplify into a coherent pick.

        But chaos ensues. There is a cavalry charge to the first turn of twenty thoroughbreds, all trying to gain a favorable position, many trying to squeeze through a wall of horses, and all attempting a mile and a quarter for the first time; perhaps the parts that make the sum should be analyzed individually.

        The Derby favorite is a great bet against, especially with the current 20 horse field. Since 1990 only two favorites have won, with 15 of 16 winners paying double digits, with an average mutual of $27.50.

        There are many reasons to play against the favorite. Sometimes the Derby chalk is legit and simply gets beaten because of the large field and resulting bad trip. This happens more often than not, in the Derby, and a lot less in The Preakness and The Belmont.

        Sometimes the Derby favorite runs a huge prop race just before the Derby and, in fact, it runs too fast receiving a big Beyer or Daily Racing Form number. Remembering Professor Jones’ escalator theory, the horse often bounces downward after that try attracting everyone’s attention and money.

        Every year there is always the over-hyped “wise guy” entrant (last year, Andy Beyers’ A.P. Warrior) and so-called “smart money” on the toteboard (Daily Racing Form’s Steven Crist’s Sweetnorthernsaint bet down to 5-1 from 10-1) – neither horse finished in the money.

        But what works? How can the Derby field be reduced to a lower amount of contenders? Career starts will help. In the past 21 years all Derby winners, except Barbaro and Grindstone, had at least six career starts or more, and the two exceptions had five starts. Dating from 1942 to the present there were 35 entrants with four career starts or less and all lost, and only two hit the board.

        Another consideration is stakes win. Seventeen of the last 21 winners showed a stakes win in its profile, with the other four winners hitting the board in one or more stakes events as a 3 year old.

        The best and most predictive category is the number of races as a 3 year old. During the past 21 years entrants who have just two prep races, in the Derby year, are 43 starts, 0 wins, 2 seconds, and 1 third. Only 2 horses since 1947 have won with two prep races.

        So far let’s check out what makes a good, value-orientated play for the Kentucky Derby: no chalk or favoritism, no big numbered prep race just before the Derby, no smart money bet down or over-hyped-wise guy selection, at least 6 career starts, a stakes win in the chart or a in the money stakes finish this year, and more than 2 races as a 3 year old. See how easy it is!

        But there is more such as; post position, trainers, projected pace of the race and running styles, key prep races, breeding, workouts, and a great long shot place angle for completing the exacta combination; but those subjects are for next installment.

Part II will be available, in this space, April 26, 2007. Marks’ selections will be available Friday, May 4^th at www.benspicks.com. Thanks, Ben

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“Ten Tidbits”

April 3, 2007

·        Congratulations to the Florida Gators, back-to-back NCAA Basketball Champions. I just got done watching them, decisively, beat the Ohio State Buckeyes 84-75 and I have just one question, do those guys ever miss?

·        Speaking of NCAA Basketball, Ohio State Freshman Center, Greg Oden, is a man among boys. There is not much more he can learn, basketball wise, at the College level. He should declare for the NBA Draft and let his ‘real’ education begin. I’ll bet Scaq can teach him a thing or two. Best of all, he’ll be making millions, instead of living in a dorm room.

·        The Octogenarian Army at One Bills Drive is sniffing around San Diego, back up, RB, Michael Turner The Chargers are looking for #1 and #3 draft picks and Buffalo will have to sign him to a new deal. I haven’t seen much of LaDainian Tomlinson’s backup, but the Bills better make sure he’s the real deal. That’s a steep price.

·        Don’t look now, but the NHL playoffs are here and the Sabres are almost at full strength. Tim Connelly and Mad Max could be the final pieces to the Stanley Cup puzzle. Hopefully, they can hit the ice at full speed.

·        From the be careful what you wish for file, Motor mouth, Marty Biron, signed a 2 year, 7 Million Dollar deal with the Philly Flyers. I wonder what it’s like being on the wrong end of target practice? Good Luck Marty, but I still hate the Flyers.

·        Derby time is right around the corner and all you “Horseballs” are in for a treat. Next week we’re going to have Part 1 of our Derby Preview, with the winner of the 2006 Horse Player World Series. He’s local resident, Mark Clement. The contest was held at The Orleans, in Las Vegas. Mark will be giving us a heads up on the Derby and the other Triple Crown races. Pay attention, you might learn something.

·        If the NHL wants their referees to swallow their whistles, for the playoffs, let them. The Sabres are at their best 5 on 5 and nobody can roll 4 lines like Buffalo.

·        The NFL Draft is a couple of weeks away and there’s only one thing I have to say to Marv Levy and Company. Deeeeefense! Deeeeefense! Deeeeefense!

·        Congratulations to the NHL Rookie of the Month, Drew Stafford. Drew had 9 goals in 15 games. You can’t teach, what this guy’s got. Mr. Stafford has a long and prosperous NHL career in front of him and I’m glad he’s a Buffalo Sabre.

·        New Jersey Devils GM, Lou Lamoriello, fired his first place coach, Claude Julien, and replaced him with himself. It’s good to see the Devils in a little turmoil on the cusp of the playoffs. The only problem is, Lamoriello has done this before, to Larry Robinson, and ended up winning the Cup. Lou is full of himself and it’s time he got taken down a peg. The Sabres are just the team to do it.

·        Don’t forget to check out my FREE Daily pick at www.benspicks.com. Thanks, Ben

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“Wake Up Buffalo!”

March 27, 2007

What’s going on here?

Last Friday night the Buffalo Sabres faced the desperate Toronto Maple Leafs, in HSBC Arena. Buffalo came out flatter than a pancake and the Leafs hit everything in a blue uniform. Toronto was hungry and fighting for their playoff lives. The Leafs out worked, out hustled, out shot and out hit their hosts, through a solid 45 minutes of playoff type hockey. The referee’s had swallowed their whistles, like they always do when Toronto’s in town, and the Sabres were down 4-1. The game was approaching its natural conclusion, when a funny thing happened along the way. Sabres goalie, Ryan Miller, vented his displeasure, with his teammates, by heaving his stick in disgust, after the Leafs freaky 4^th goal. It was a natural reaction to a terrible performance and Miller’s teammates must’ve taken it to heart, because what happened next, is one for the archives. In a season full of comeback wins and last second victories, Buffalo flipped the switch and scored 4 goals, in 8:45, to take a 5-4 lead. Toronto, and their fans, never knew what hit them, as they headed back over the Peace Bridge, dazed and confused. There is nothing I enjoy more than watching those know it all Leaf fans beside themselves.

I couldn’t believe it. Are the Sabres that good? Can they just flip the switch and turn it on whenever they want? I’ve got to admit it was fun to watch those final 15 minutes. The best part of the whole scenario was, these same two teams were to meet the next night, in Toronto.

Certainly Buffalo Coach, Lindy Ruff would read these guys the riot act. The Sabres, I thought, would take that momentum and carry it with them to Toronto. There they would take it right to the Leafs, take the early lead, and watch the Toronto fans eat their own. Boy, was I wrong. Instead of hopping on the Leafs early, and often, it was like ‘deja vu all over again’. Toronto out worked, out hustled, out shot and out hit the Sabres again. The Leafs again, held a 4-1 lead in the 3^rd period. This time, the Sabres were the one’s to head over the Peach Bridge with their tails between their legs. It was very disappointing, especially since that low brow, Darcy Tucker, scored 2 of Toronto’s goals. I hate that guy, but you’ve got to hand it to the Leafs, coming back from such a demoralizing loss.

Ryan Miller, again, let his team know how he felt, “If we want to be the big, bad team we think we are, we’re going to have to show a little more effort, that’s for sure” Miller’s right. The Sabres aren’t as good as they think they are and they can’t just flip the switch whenever they want. Hockey is an 82 game grind out, followed by an even tougher grind in the playoffs. If your team is not ready for the grind, you will be pulverized. It doesn’t matter how much talent you have, just ask the Ottawa Senators.

 Last year the Sabres were the hunters. They were hungry and worked like dogs to beat the Flyers, then the Senators. Next came Carolina, a team as hungry as the Sabres. Buffalo gave it their all, but succumbed to injury, in the final period, of the 7^th game. It was a devastating loss and there’s a big obstacle ahead of them, just to get back to that point. If Buffalo is not prepared, if they think they can just lace them up and beat teams, they’re in for a rude awakening. It’s the Stanley Cup Playoffs and no one is going to lie down. No one, especially since the Sabres are now the hunted. It’s going to be a knock down drag out fight to the finish. Are the Sabres up for it? Are they ready for the battle? They fooled us once, I don’t want to be fooled again. Wake Up Buffalo!

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“HSBC Madness”

March 20, 2007

Pat yourself on the back Buffalo. The first leg of the NCAA Tournament came to town last weekend and the City of Good Neighbors showed it’s true colors. College students and basketball junkies, from throughout the Northeast, descended on HSBC Arena and you could feel the electricity in the air.

The school bands stood and played, the cheerleaders twirled and spun, the face painters cheered and jeered and the fans definitely got their monies worth. It was an enjoyable experience. The only disappointment was whether your team won, or lost, sorry Duke fans.

        The Thursday afternoon session saw the Davidson Wildcats hang with the athletically superior Maryland Terrapins. Maryland pulled away in the last 5 minutes, beating Davidson 82-70. The second game was a half court battle between the Butler Bulldogs and the Old Dominion Monarchs. The Bulldogs went on a 20-4, 2^nd half, run and the Monarchs could not recover, losing 57-46.

        There was an enjoyable 2 hour break, before the evening session. Yours truly spent the time fueling up the tank and soaking in the atmosphere. This time around the City was ready, as the crowd exited the Arena. There were scores of volunteers answering questions and helping with directions. There wasn’t a chicken wing safe anywhere, as shuttle busses and trolleys took hungry fans to all the restaurants and bars in the area. It was a major contrast to the last time the Tournament was here. It’s good to know the City learned its lesson and improved the experience. It also felt good to be downtown and enjoy the positive vibes. It reminded me of the good old days, when people actually went out of their way to shop and eat downtown.

        In the evening session, we got the most anticipated match up, as the legendary Duke Blue Devils took on the Virginia Commonwealth Rams. Duke, and Coach Mike Krzyzewski, was the draw of the Tournament and tickets were at a premium. The Devils, with a little help from the refs, held a comfortable lead throughout the second half. It got a little nauseating watching Duke guard, Greg Paulus, whine and complain. The refs gave the Blue Devil every call in the book, but the Rams kept plugging away. Then, with about 5 minutes to play, the Rams caught fire. VCU started popping 3’s and took the lead for good, with 1.8 seconds left, on a jumper by Eric Maynor. The VCU win was the biggest upset of the tournament and it was good to see justice served. The late game saw the Wright State Raiders overmatched by the Pittsburgh Panthers. Pitt got a sizable halftime lead and never looked back.

        In the Saturday session, both games went down to the wire. Maryland had the better athletes, but Butler played disciplined basketball. The Bulldogs would not relent, beating the Terrapins 62-59, in an upset. Maryland did not play as a team and I lost a little respect for Maryland’s coach, Gary Williams. In the final game, VCU was in deep doo-doo, behind Pitt by 19, in the second half. The game Rams would not give in. VCU started pressing and trapping and slowly got back into the game, forcing overtime. In the extra session, Pittsburgh regrouped and pulled away for the win, 84-79.

        It was one hell of a ride, 8 teams, 6 games, 4 nail biters, 2 upsets and 1 clear winner, Buffalo, NY.

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“Caught In A Trap”

March 13, 2007

I’m a Sabre fan and I’m getting a bad feeling. Maybe it’s just me, or maybe it’s a Buffalo thing, but something in my gut just isn’t sitting right. It’s a strange feeling that’s a little hard to describe, but let me try.

It’s like you’re at the game, you’ve had a few and boy, that hot dog looks good right about now. The first one taste’s great so, you’ve got to have another. Then, just as you finish your last bite, you get a little queasy feeling and you think, uh-oh.

It’s like, when you’re a kid and you’re outside playing, having a grand old time. Then all of a sudden, you hear your Mom calling you at the top of her lungs. It’s not like the, Benny come in for dinner call. That wouldn’t be so bad. It’s the, Benny you’re in deep do-do screech. The one where she uses your full name. Remember that sinking feeling you got in the middle of your stomach?

It’s like, the first really nice day of spring. The one where you can actually feel the heat and know, summer is just around the corner. You know what I mean, it’s a beautiful morning, the Sun is shinning, the birds are chirping. You head out to work, with the windows open and the radio blaring. You literally, can’t wait for lunch time, so you can bask in the glow. Then you go back to work, but you can’t concentrate and start to feel a little antsy. You start watching the clock, then the walls start closing in on you. It starts to feel like you’re in prison, time has stopped, and 5:00 will never come.

Put a little bit of each one of those together and that’s what I’m feeling right now.

Two weeks ago, the Sabres had some major injuries, but didn’t miss a beat. The kids from Rochester got put to the test and came through with ‘flying’ colors. The young guns skated Toronto, Montreal and Toronto again, into the ground. It was a total mismatch and the Canadian teams didn’t know what hit them. Then Colorado, Minnesota, and New Jersey came to town and let the air out of the balloon. Wednesday the Avalanche took a 3-2 lead and the Sabres only managed 4 total shots in the final stanza. Friday the Wild got out to an early lead and Buffalo could never climb back up the hill. Saturday, with a chance at redemption, the Devils took the wind out of their sails and got one step closer, with a 3-2 win over Buffalo.

Three defeats in a row, all at home, put that bad feeling in the pit of my stomach. The more I thought about it, the worse it got. Those three teams have a lot in common. They are all disciplined, well coached teams, that put a premium on goaltending and defense. In other words, they all play the ‘Neutral Zone Trap’. The Devils are masters of ‘The Trap’ and the tactic was invented by their former coach, the present coach of the Wild, Jacques Lamaire. Lamaire, single handedly, set hockey back 20 years and it is only beginning to recover. ‘The Trap’, as all of you hockey fans know, is used to clog up the area between the blue lines. This causes skating teams, like the Sabres, to dump the puck into the offensive zone and chase it. That basically turns the game into a, grind it out, battle in the corners, instead of an open ice speed and skill contest.

This tactic, obviously, puts a young, small, team like the Sabres at a big disadvantage. Throw into the mix, the fact that the referees have begun to swallow their whistles and teams like the Sabres are taken right out of their game. This is what the block head Canadians, a.k.a Don Cherry, like to call ‘Playoff Hockey’. I call ‘Playoff Hockey’, ‘Caveman Hockey’ (no offense to the dude in the Geico commercial). In other words, if you can’t beat a team with speed and skill, beat them over the head with your stick. It reminded me of the great Sabre teams of the 70’s. Perreault, Martin and Robert, skated circles around people, but they couldn’t get by the Islanders, or Broad Street Bullies. Why? Because of ‘Caveman Hockey’. The rules were suddenly different in the playoffs. Thanks NHL. Thanks for turning the fastest game in the world into a slugfest.

Last year, in the post season, our defense took a physical beating. We lost 4 blue liners and could not hold up although, we were lucky enough to miss meeting New Jersey. This year, we won’t be so lucky. The match up with the Devils is going to be a 7 game grind out, to see who gets to the Stanley Cup final. If the Sabres are lucky enough to advance, it’s going to be another all out battle, against a Western Conference powerhouse. Now, you know why, I’ve got that sinking feeling. I’ve seen this movie before, there’s nothing I can do to change it and it’s not a happy ending. The more I think about it, the worse it gets. It makes me feel like, I’m ‘Caught In A Trap’.

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March 6, 2007

“Ten Tidbits”

• Kudos to Marv Levy and the Octogenarian Army. Although Ralph “Alligator Arms” Wilson tied their hands behind their backs, the Bills were still aggressive in Free Agency. Marv rebuilt the foundation of the Bills Offense, by signing 3, stand up, Offensive Linemen. Isn’t it nice to see character people, that actually want, to come to Buffalo.
• Wasn’t it great watching the Rochester Americans beat Toronto, Montreal, and Toronto again, all in less than 5 days. The Leafs and Canadians are fighting for their playoff lives and they can’t even beat a team, with half an AHL roster. Those pretentious hockey know-it-all’s up North, a.k.a Don Cherry, must be livid.
• $80,000,000 for Nate Clements. $25,000,000 for London Fletcher. The Bills were right to let them walk. They’re not worth that kind of money.
• It’s almost time for the “Madness” to begin, at HSBC Arena. I love watching the kids play for the love of the game. No money, no entourage, just playing to win. You can’t watch a better, live, competition than that. I will be posting my Bracket selections, Wednesday the 14^th , on www.benspicks.com. Log on, if you need a little help. I usually do pretty well.
• Darcy Regier did what he could at the trade deadline. The Sabres added some depth on defense, and Dainius Zubrus is a definite upgrade. I’ve just got one thing to say, Ryan Miller better stay healthy, or Darcy will never hear the end of it.
• Just a little tip, for all you basketball junkies out there. You can log on to www.ncaasports.com and watch any NCAA Tournament game you want, live. Just don’t blame me, when you get caught by the boss.
• Is it me, or should Drew Stafford have his own Jergens commercial? Nobody’s got softer hands then that guy. No more bus rides for Mr. Stafford.
• Isn’t it good to know the Sabres beat up and took, Bobby Clarke’s lunch money. How can I still hate the Flyers, now that Marty “Motor Mouth” Biron, is the Philly Goalie, and Don Luce, is in their front office? Bye-Bye, Broad Street Bullies.
• Derby time is right around the corner and all you “Horseballs” are in for a treat. I’m going to have an interview with the winner of the 2006 Horse Player World Series. He’s local resident, Mark Clement. The contest was held at The Orleans, in Las Vegas. Mark will be giving us a heads up on the Triple Crown races and maybe, he’ll share his selections with us.

• It looks like RB Willis “Trade Bait” McGahee has made his last carry for the Buffalo Bills. Willis doesn’t want to be here and Marv will grant him his wish. Good move. I’ve got a great idea Marv, why don’t you drop a line up North, and see, if the Toronto Argonauts need a RB? I know Willis loves it up there. Bye-Bye Willis, don’t let the door hit you on the way out. Case Closed!

Don’t forget to check out my FREE Daily pick at 

www.benspicks.com. We’ve had a great start,

 hopefully we can keep it going. Thanks, Ben

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The Cheapskate Blues

February 20, 2007

        The Octogenarian Army was at it again, last Friday, at One Bills Drive. After meeting with “Lead Singer”, Ralph Wilson, in Florida, GM Marv Levy brought us the “State Of The Bills”. In another uninspiring news conference, Marv would’ve put Tiny Tim to shame, as he “Tiptoed Through the Tulips” to let us know the obvious, Ralph’s got deep pockets and “Alligator” arms.

        With Jim “Tightwad” Overdorf on base, Jeff “Penny Pincher” Littman on drums, and Chuck “The Lackey” Schummer on backup vocals, Marv strummed his ukulele to several tunes. They included “Cash To The Cap”, “Don’t Amortize Your Future”, “Nate Clements Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” and last, but not least, that old favorite, “The Cheapskate Blues”. For those of you lucky enough to miss the latest rendition of Ralph’s broken record, please allow me to translate. The Bills are not giving out any big signing bonuses. That means you can kiss any big Free Agents goodbye, including our own, CB Nate Clements and LB London Fletcher. It was a very disappointing session.

        2006 started with a new Coach, a new GM, and modest expectations. It all hit the dumper after a 2-5 start to the season. Then during the Bye week, the Bills shuffled their offensive line and everything started to come together. QB J.P. Losman became more consistent, the Bills held the ball longer and the defense evolved into a more cohesive unit. Buffalo went 5-4 down the stretch and, in 2 of their losses, played San Diego and Indy to the wire. In November and December, the Bills failed to sell out several of their games, due to their lackluster start, but there was a positive air going into next season. It seemed, with Marv Levy and Dick Jauron in charge, the Bills were headed in the right direction. That all hit the poop chute, when Ralph started singing “The Cheapskate Blues”.

Ralph, Bills Fans are sick and tired of hearing you whine and complain about how your getting short changed by the league. We’re paying for a Stadium, named after you. Not only that, but those “Alligator” arms have no problem going into our pockets, to pay for that new scoreboard that’s going up. Then you wonder why the Stadium is not sold out. It’s not because of our “financially depressed area”, that’s the same “Oldie” we’ve been hearing from you since the 60’s. It’s because, you haven’t put the product on the field, Ralph. It’s funny how the Sabres have no problem filling the Arena. Ralph, you expect us fans to blindly put up our hard earned cash, yet there you are, in “Gator Country”, short arms and all. Don’t you realize, it’s been almost a decade since they cheated us in “The Music City Miracle”. Doesn’t your heart still sink a little every time they replay “Wide Right”? Wake Up Ralph! That was 5 Coaches and 4 GM’s ago, all because you keep singing “The Cheapskate Blues”. It’s quality, not quantity Ralph. Isn’t it about time you did something about it, before it’s too late?

I just got one question Ralph, you’re 80 something years old, you’re worth 100’s of millions of dollars, do you plan on taking that money with you? That would be quite a sight, they could fill up a fleet of Brinks trucks, follow your hearse to the cemetery and engrave the words “Four Time Loser” on your headstone. Is that what you want Ralph? Is that the way it’s going to be? Wise up Ralph, you can’t take it with you and I for one am sick and tired of being the butt of a joke every time I tell someone, I’m a Bills Fan. It’s your legacy Ralph, you make the call. Are you a “Fan”, or are you a “Cheapskate”?

Don’t forget to check out my FREE Daily pick at www.benspicks.com. We’ve had a great start, hopefully we can keep it going. Thanks, Ben

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Willis McGahee – Dumb or Dumber?

 February 12, 2007

       Buffalo Bills RB Willis McGahee does not strike me as a very intelligent person. In the February issue of Penthouse (I only read it for the articles) he has a short interview with the magazine. In the interview Willis states, “I got a lot of love for Buffalo. They took a chance on me in the first round, not knowing whether I’d be able to play or not. I thank God for the whole situation. And, you know I’m trying to make them proud. I’m trying to do some things here.” Then several questions later he’s asked, “There’s talk of an NFL team for nearby Toronto. What do you think?” The “cerebral” #21 answers, “That would be a good situation. Toronto is a beautiful place. But if they’re going t put a team there, they should just bring the Buffalo Bills to Toronto. Case Closed.” Really Willis? Case closed? Well Willis, the case is still open, the Jury is still out and you’re the one on trial. Tell the people of the Jury Mr. McGahee, how do you have a lot of love for Buffalo, how are you going to make them proud, when you think their team should be moved to Toronto?

       McGahee arrived here in 2003, a Tom Donahoe draft pick, from “The U”, that’s the University of Miami for all of us regular folks. His agent, Drew “No Comment” Rosenhaus, pulled the jersey over Donahoe’s eyes and we’re still paying the price. Willis was touted as the next coming of O.J., after he recovered from his devastating knee injury. I got to admit, I bought into the hype. We already had a dependable RB in Travis Henry and, although he’s had his off field issues, he’s got heart and he bled Red, White, and Buffalo Blue. He loved it here and was bent out of shape, rightfully so. Travis knew his days were numbered.

       We had to baby sit Willis for a wasted year. Then after a year of sharing the RB duties, Tom Donahoe let Travis go without much fanfare. Donahoe wanted “his guy” in there, and being the GM, he got his wish. Big mistake, Travis tore it up in Tennessee last year. Remember Donahoe is the guy that hired Mularky and Williams, as Head Coaches, and mortgaged our future for QB Drew Bledsoe. Donahoe is not a very good judge of talent or character. That’s why he’s no longer here.

       Now, after a couple of years of mediocrity, including a lackluster 3.8 yards per carry in 2006, Willis is demanding a new contract. Keep in mind, he brought this up while the Bills were still in the playoff hunt and he still has a year to go on his original deal. Nothing like putting the cart before the horse, or is that the RB before the offensive line. Way to be a team player Willis, way to show your appreciation for the team that picked you up off the scrap heap. Like I said, not very bright.

       This is the guy that says, he’s got a lot of love for Buffalo, then several questions later states, they should move the Bills to Toronto. This is the guy that admitted earlier in the year he didn’t know what down it was, on a crucial 4^th down try. This is the guy that’s had 3 paternity suits against him in about a years time. This is the guy that works out at “The U”, while the rest of his team is working their butts off at One Bills Drive. This is the guy that goes on the Jim Rome radio show and jibber jabbers so bad no one can understand him. Maybe someone should’ve told him they’ve got more than a weight room at “The U”, or do they?

      Several days after the Penthouse article, #21 offered up some weak apology, probably written by his agent, to cover his butt. The Jury is not buying it Willis, a few of us have actually seen the inside of a classroom. It’s obvious to me and everyone else in Buffalo, you have no desire to be here. The City of Buffalo is nothing but a paycheck on your way back to South Beach.. You’ve got no heart and you have no understanding of this community or its fans. To you and your agent this city is nothing more than Dollar $ign$.

      The best part of the situation is, Marv Levy is the judge now and he knows character. Marv won’t sit still for this bull. If Willis sits out of training camp next year, let him sit, you’ve got a signed deal. RB’s are a dime a dozen. Don’t even give his agent, “Mr. No Comment”, the satisfaction of a call back. When #21 shows up, to fulfill the last year of his contract, run him into the ground, make him earn every penny. Then give him his wish and let him walk as a Free Agent. That’s when we can finally be free of him and the Tom Donahoe era. That’s when Willis can see what it feels like to be used and kicked to the curb. That’s what he deserves for biting the hand that feeds him and his illegitimate children. The Jury is in Mr. McGahee, you’re not very bright. CASE CLOSED!

      These are my opinions not those of the Buffalo Rocket or its affiliates. Don’t forget to check out my FREE daily pick at www.benspicks.com. Thanks, Ben

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Super Bowl XLI Recap

 February 7, 2007

      I hope you people were paying attention last week, because if you did, you made a bundle on XLI. Here is only part of what I wrote, “The game should see some first quarter jitters, as it always does. When things begin to settle down, I see Manning, and the Colts, spreading the ball around and moving on the Chicago defense. Putting the ball in the end zone, when it matters. When the Bears have the ball, I don't see them being able to put together the long scoring drives they are going to need to beat Indy's Cover-2 defense. Remember, the Colt defense is fast and doesn't give the opposition very much room. It will be up to Grossman to string together enough positive plays to get the Bears down the field consistently. I don't see it happening. I see the Colts taking a modest first half lead, thus forcing the Bears into taking chances in the second half. That's when the flood gates open. Grossman is green and the mistakes will happen. He'll end up throwing 2 picks, maybe 3, and the Colts will win going away, like Secretariat.” When you’re trying to predict football games, it doesn’t get any better than that.

     The Bears and Rex Grossman got their butts handed to them and they’ve got no excuses. It was Chicago weather throughout the game, and the Bears caught every break in the book, early on, but still couldn’t hang with the Colts. Kevin Hester ran back the opening kick, for a quick Chicago lead. The veteran Colts and Peyton Manning did not panic. Manning brought the Colts back, with a wide open TD pass to Reggie Wayne, only to miss the extra point. I’ll bet that screwed up a few pools. Then, on the Colts next possession, Manning was forced into a rare interception. That’s when the Bears produced their only real offense of the game, a 50 yard run by Thomas Jones. Chicago eventually punched it in for a 14-6 Bear lead, but it was all downhill after that.

     The Colts went into conservative mode and Manning dinked and dunked his way down the field, twice. Indy held a slim 16-14 halftime lead, but you could feel it slipping away from the Bears. Indy took the second half kickoff, went on a long drive, stalled in the Red Zone, and settled for a field goal. Then they did it again. The Bears didn’t do much versus the Colt defense, but managed a field goal, to end the third quarter down only 22-17. It was a very misleading score. The Colts were dominating the game and the Bears were still covering the 7 point spread. I was not happy, but luckily, when it mattered, my Grossman prediction kicked in. Rexy showed his real stripes, when he tried to make something happen, instead of throwing the ball away. His interception throw to CB Kevin Hayden, of the Colts, turned the game around. Hayden made like Prince on steroids and somehow danced his way down the sidelines, without going out of bounds. Rexy threw another interception, on the next possession, and those 2 forth quarter gaffes sealed the Bears fate. It would’ve been nice for the Colts to kick one more field goal to hit the Over 47, but Tony Dungy would have none of that. I think Lovie Smith being on the other sideline had a big influence on Dungy’s decision not to run up the score. I wasn’t too happy and lost a little respect for Dungy in the process. It shouldn’t matter who’s on the other sideline Tony. I don’t care if it’s your buddy, your cousin, or your brother. It should have no influence on the game and it did. Shame on you Tony.

     The Bears have no excuses. They got the weather they wanted, the early lead and all they had to do was pound the ball on the worst run defense in the league. They couldn’t do it. The Bears were pretenders and it was the Colts who pounded the ball, with 191 yards rushing and 38:04 time of possession. Manning, Dungy and Polian finally got their Super Bowl, after years of trying. It was a well deserved victory. They were the better team, no doubt about it, and they earned Super Bowl XLI. Congratulations Indy.

     Beginning this Friday I will be posting a FREE! daily pick on my website, www.benspicks.com. It will be available each day by 4:00 PM, just click on FREE PICK.

If you have any comments, you can reach me at ben@benspicks.com. Thanks, Ben

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     It's been a fantastic week in Las Vegas. The weather has been sunny and a very respectable 60 degrees. That's not hard to take, considering I know what's waiting for me later today, back in Buffalo. I've spent the week playing the tables, betting some hoops and I've been able to do pretty well. I've also been eating like Porky Pig, tipping like Elmer J. Fudd and I still have almost my whole bankroll. But, alas all good things must come to an end.

     Now, the good stuff, predicting who will win Superbowl XLI. I was able to meet with several professional handicappers in my travels this week. They shall remain nameless, but two were locals and one was from California. This is what I learned, all the stats and trends point to the Bears, so all the sharps and wise guys bet down the down the opening line of Indy -7 to -6.5. My Power Rating, the BPR, also points to the Bears, but here is where it gets a little sticky. Have you seen the Bears play the last 2 weeks? Chicago was tooth and nails to beat a terrible Seattle team, at home. Last week, they had the Saints by the throat and let them back in the game. If it wasn't for some bonehead coaching, and terrible breaks, the Saints would be playing this weekend. Then, if you look back at the teams Chicago beat in the regular season, it's a long list of chumps. The only good team the Bears faced was New England and they lost to them in Foxboro. Also, do not forget that the NFC sucked this year and they were totally dominated by the AFC. Now, when you look at all that, and think about all the stats that they've piled up, the Bears do not look as impressive. Rex Grossman was a terrible 11 for 26, versus New Orleans. The only reason he's here, is because the Saints could not hang on to the ball. The Bears do not inspire me. Rex Grossman does not look like a Superbowl QB and I have a hard time putting my money on that guy.

     Now, the Colts, as the season was winding down, no one gave Indy much of a shot. The Colt run defense was in the barn and Peyton Manning, and the explosive Indy offense, was just plodding along. Then the playoffs came and a light went on. The Colts stopped the Chiefs running game dead in it's tracks, for win number one. Then Indy traveled to Baltimore and hit the Daily Double, shutting down the soaring Ravens, in an impressive road win. They topped off the Trifecta, with an impressive come from behind win, beating the Pats at the wire. Manning generated 5 second half scoring drives, all with the game on the line. He did it by spreading the ball to 9 different receivers and not completing a pass to his best WR, Marvin Harrison, in the second half. That was a statement game, loud and clear. Peyton Manning finally took the reins and put an end to all the Colt playoff disasters.

     Now, the match-up. The game should see some first quarter jitters, as it always does. When things begin to settle down, I see Manning, and the Colts, spreading the ball around and moving on the Chicago defense. Putting the ball in the end zone, when it matters. When the Bears have the ball, I don't see them being able to put together the long scoring drives they are going to need to beat Indy's Cover-2 defense. Remember, the Colt defense is fast and doesn't give the opposition very much room. It will be up to Grossman to string together enough positive plays to get the Bears down the field consistently. I don't see it happening. I see the Colts taking a modest first half lead, thus forcing the Bears into taking chances in the second half. That's when the flood gates open. Grossman is green and the mistakes will happen. He'll end up throwing 2 picks, maybe 3, and the Colts will win going away, like Secretariat. I like Indy big, with a slight lean to the Over. Indy 37 - Chicago 17. If you're still in doubt about spotting the 7 points, think about this. Who would you rather have on your horse, Rex Grossman or Peyton Manning. Bet them early, while they're still at -6.5, because the public will be betting them back up to 7 by Sunday. Thanks for listening everyone. Now it's time to pack for the long flight home. I think I'll leave a little early, I know there's a casino I can hit on the way to the airport for one last shot. Good Luck, Ben

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January 23, 2007

     'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas'. The Buffalo Rocket has spared no expense in allowing me to report to you direct from the Las Vegas Strip. I was able to catch the AFC and NFC Championship games at one of the strips famous sports books, and it was quite an experience. For a stone cold sports junkie, like me, it doesn't get any better than that. You've got a packed house, TV screens as big as a semi and an electricity in the air that puts the Hoover Dam to shame. To top it all off, all you have to do is walk 10 paces, from you leather cushioned chair, to make a wager. It can't get any better than that and luckily the games lived up to their billing.

    In Chicago, the Bears took numerous New Orleans turnovers, and put the Saints improbable season to a painful end. Drew Brees, and the Saints, came out with guns-a-blazing on this could Chicago day. The Saints seemed to be moving the ball, but each possession came to a bitter conclusion, as the Bears turned several miscues into a 16-0 lead. The Saints would not go lightly, as they scored a late TD, in the first half, and cut the Bear lead to 9. In the 3rd quarter, Reggie Bush took a short flair pass and turned it into a Championship record 88 yard TD play. Living up to his name, he taunted LB Brian Ulracher on his way into the end zone. "Bush League" and a big mistake Reggie, as it was all downhill after that. The Bears defense awoke from their hibernation and, on the Saints next possession, forced Drew Brees into a safety. Bears QB Rex Grossman was having a terrible day, but after the Bears received the ensuing kick, Sexy Rexy put together 4 straight completions. The last one, an acrobatic catch and summersault into the end zone that sealed the Saints fate. The rest was all window dressing, as the Bears went on a feeding frenzy and forced Brees into a downward spiral. The final butt kicking was 39-14, but the result was not indicative of the play. I especially have a problem with New Orleans Head Coach Sean Peyton. The Saints, with RB's Bush and McCallaster in their backfield, only ran the ball a total of 12 times on a slippery field. Instead of being conservative, versus a powerful Chicago defense, New Orleans committed 5 turnovers and numerous miscues, that played right into the Bears 'Paws'. Rookie mistake Sean, hopefully he'll have a short learning curve. Last, but not least, Sexy Rexy got the Bears to the Superbowl, but he only had 11 completions in 26 attempts. Rexy better step it up, if he wants to bring the 41st Lombardi back to the Windy City.

    In Indianapolis, Peyton Manning and the Colts 'Shocked The Monkey", in an improbable comeback, that finally left the Patriots dynasty in ruins. The Colts looked like they were left for dead, after Manning threw a 'Pick-6', and spotted the Pats a comfortable 21-3 lead. Indy was not doing well and, recalling the Patriots previous playoff domination of the Colts, it looked as though the Colts were one play away from total embarrassment. It was not to happen on this fateful day, Peyton Manning finally grabbed the dreaded playoff monkey by the throat and strangled it with his bare hands. Manning lead the Colts on a long drive that only netted 3 points before halftime, but the long possession served to turn the elusive momentum around. Still trailing 21-6 at halftime, the Colts took the second half kickoff and again Manning willed the Colts to a touchdown. That TD brought them back to respectable 21-13 deficit. The tide was turning, you could feel it, and Pats could not turn the boat around. The much maligned Colt defense was primed for the task and Tom Brady surprisingly, could not get anything going. The Colts stopped the Pats dead and on the ensuing drive you could literally see the Patriots mighty defense beginning to tire. I guess Teddy Bruski really doesn't walk on water. Indy scored, punched in the 2 points and it was a new game, tied at 21. The game went back in forth, as the Pats answered the call, but Manning would not be denied. The Pats held a 3 point lead with a little over 2 minutes to play, but Manning again answered and the Colts finally took the lead 38-34. There was still 1 minute to go, but the Colts defense finally came up with the interception that hammered the stake in the heart of the Pats. Did you see the expression on Bill Belichick's face? It was worth the price of admission. I have to admit, I am not a big fan of Peyton Manning, but he deserves the credit on this day. He could have easily packed it in, but he brought the Colts back from the brink and believe me it was a long way down. Congratulations Peyton and now a word of advice, don't take those Bears lightly, or that 'monkey' will come back quicker than Jason on Friday the 13th. The opening Vegas line is Indy -7 and the Over/Under is 49. Next week, after meeting with some big wig Vegas handicappers, I will be bringing you my Superbowl selection. So hold off on that Superbowl bet, until you get the scoop straight from the Strip. In the meantime, I think there's a blackjack table calling my name. Thanks and Good Luck, Ben.

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Home Field Disadvantage

 January 17, 2007

     What’s going on here? Is up, down? Is black, White, Is right, left? Are the water rates coming down? I though being at home in the playoffs, especially the Division Round, was supposed to be a huge advantage. The home teams have the crowd factor, the better record, an additional week to rest and prepare, yet all four came up short against the Vegas spread. The home team Chicago Bears and the New Orleans Saints, barely escaped with 3 point victories, in the NFC. While the AFC saw outright, upset road wins by the Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots. I saw it with my own eyes, it must be true, but somehow it just doesn’t make any sense. I guess, that’s why they play the games.

      In Baltimore the Ravens showed up for a knife fight with their bare knuckles, and that’s not like LB Ray Lewis and his friends. Baltimore QB, Steve McNair settled for a measly 6 points, as the Ravens could not pierce the much maligned Colt defense. Indy QB, “Herman Munster”, I mean Peyton Manning tightened his bolts and sliced and diced the vaunted Ravens defense into tiny little pieces. Indy settled for 5 field goals, but 15 points was enough to make the Ravens cry, “Nevermore”.

     In New Orleans, the Saints and the Eagles were in a knock down drag out fight. The Saints landed the first blow, but Philly QB, Jeff “Twinkle Toes” Garcia and RB, Brian Westbrook, made big plays to forge an 8 point 3^rd quarter lead. New Orleans RB Deuce “Remember Me” McAllister responded with 148 yards rushing and a couple of clutch TD’s to giving the Saints a 3 point lead late in the 4^th quarter. The Saints were attempting to put it away, when RB Reggie Bush fumbled an easy toss, and the Eagles recovered for one more shot. Philly could not generate a 1^st down and Coach Andy Reid opted for the 4^th down punt. Big mistake! The Eagles never saw the ball again. Saints win 27-24. The Karma keeps on rolling in the Big Easy.

     In Chicago, the Bears were spotting some major wood, 9 points, but got nowhere near the cover, in an overtime win against the game Seahawks. Seattle came to play, despite major injury problems to their Wide Receivers and Corner Backs. The Hawks actually held the lead, late in the 4^th quarter, but the Bears Rex “The Check Is In The Mail” Grossman came through when it counted. Grossman helped the Bears to a late field goal to tie. Then, after the Seahawks won the toss and punted, Grossman did just enough to get the Bears in field goal position. K Robbie “Don’t Call Me Opie” Gould was the “boy” of the hour, with the 49 yard game winning field goal.

     In San Diego, the Chargers finally earned the top seed, had the league’s MVP, but the more things change, the more things stay the same. The Chargers had the Patriots right where they wanted them, but like a wrestling match gone bad, could not put the Pats down for the count. San Diego was up 8, with 6 minutes to go, and Pats Coach, Bill “Can Someone Please Buy Me A New Hoodie” Belichick, decided to go for it on 4^th down. QB Tom “Call Me Houdini” Brady, who was having one of the worst days of his career, threw an interception on the play, and somehow pulled another rabbit out of his helmet. The Chargers fumbled the interception and the Pats “Mr. Everything”, Troy Brown, secured the elusive bunny. The rest of the story is nothing but a bunch of Yada, Yada Yada because we all know the ending. The Pats live on and Marty Schottenheimer loses another playoff game. Like I said the more things change, the more they stay the same.

     Next week I will be reporting to you direct from the Fabulous Las Vegas Strip. I’m looking forward to two very competitive match ups. Will the Saints be able to ride the Karma train to Chicago, or will it be “Deja Vu” all over again for the Pats and Colts.

Remember you can access my selections at www.benspicks.com, just click on Free Newsletter.

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"Brett Favre - Man In The Middle?"

November 30, 2006

       Let me begin this Rant by stating, this is not sour grapes because I had the winner Monday Night, Green Bay +10.5. Now, those of you that have read my Rants in the past know my feelings on Brett Favre, I don't trust the man. He has made many questionable decisions in the past and I have the feeling he does not always play to win, he plays to win money. Now, I have no definitive proof, only what I see and hear, and through the years his actions have only served to solidify my doubts. Now let me lay this out for you, so you can be the judge.

    On Sunday night the line for the Seattle v Green Bay Monday night game was Seattle -9. I awoke on Monday morning to check the lines and to my surprise, the game was off the board. I assumed there was a major injury, so the books took the line down. Was Favre not able to play, was Hasselbeck going to be a no show, did Alexander have a setback? It had to be something major to bring a big game off the board in Vegas. I did a little research and found there were no changes in the injury report, so I dug a little deeper and found my answer on www.covers.com. The books took the game off the board because of some overwhelming action on the Seahawks during the evening. Yes, it is very unusual for the books to take down a major game, but Vegas smelled something fishy, and money doesn't lie. The books finally returned the game to the board, but to cover themselves, set the line at 10.5 or 11.

      I pondered this turnabout and wondered, what the hell was going on? Someone knew something and wasn't afraid to put some major cash on the line. It had to be Millions of dollars to take the line down on a Monday Night game. So, I though about it for awhile and it finally hit me, Brett Favre was playing against his old Coach, Mike Holmgren. Now, let's get this straight, the Packers are going nowhere, two old buddies are facing each other, and big money is going down on the Seahawks. The smell of rotten fish was now in the air. The kicker to the whole story is, there was a huge buy back on the Packers and the line closed at 10 just about everywhere. To reiterate this further, someone out there had some major cash on Seattle -9 and -9.5 and someone out there had some major cash on Green Bay +10.5 and +11. Was it the same someone?

      You all know the result of the game Seattle 34 - Green Bay 24, but think about what happened in the final few minutes, after Seattle pushed their lead to 10. The Pack got the ball and Brett threw an interception downfield. Then Seattle ran, ran, ran, running the clock. Green Bay got the ball back again, Brett threw another interception and Seattle basically ran out the clock.  Someone made a ton on the Packers, someone made a ton on the Seahawks. Was it the same someone? Vegas got stuck in the middle and the books lost a ton of money. Brett Favre v Mike Holmgren was it real, or was it wrestling? 

You be the Judge.

Thanks, Ben

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"The Turnover Fairy"

November 8, 2006

        The "Turnover Fairy" again raised her ugly head over Week #9 and even the mighty Bears could not reverse the spell. Although the Bears were a mighty 24 point BPR Favorite at home, they lost the turnover battle 6-2 and the game to the below average Miami Dolphins. Luckily, I stayed miles away from this game. I looked at the numbers and thought it was a trap and my "instinks" were right for a change. For some reason I thought back to the undefeated Mike Ditka Bears, that were taken down by Dan Marino the Dolphins many years ago. I didn't like the smell of it, but I know of several people who made the Bears their suicide pool pick and are now watching from the sidelines. It doesn't matter how good you are, if you lose the turnover battle, by a large margin (2 or greater), odds are you are not covering the spread. The Steelers lost the turnovers 6-0 and lost to Denver at home, after gaining 500 yards. The Packers out gained the Bills 427 to 184 yards, but lost the turnover battle 4-0 and the game by 14. The Rams lost 3 turnovers, at home, to the Chief and lost the game, despite winning the yardage battle 452 to 317. The Pats were 10 point BPR favorites, and were neck and neck with the Colts, but lost the turnover battle 5-2 and the game. And so on, and so on, every week in the NFL.

    The point I'm trying to make here is, you can do all the figuring you want, check all the injuries, weather, coaching moves, look at trends, head to head match ups, but a lot of the times whether you win or lose is decided by the awkward bounce of the Pigskin. That's why it's so hard to pick winners in the NFL. That's why all those guys that say they can pick 60% + winners in pro football are full of shit. Yeah, maybe it can be done over a short period of time, but the "Turnover Fairy" has a way of evening things out.

Thanks and Good Luck, Ben

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 "Sometimes the Bear Gets You"

November 1, 2006

       It was a very disappointing 1-4 in Week 8. The lone winner, Baltimore, came through like a champ, putting the overachieving Saints away early. The Ravens dominated the home team and brought them back to reality. The losers were another story, as these 4 teams lost the turnover battle 12-1. Cincy took an early lead, at home, versus the Falcons, then proceeded to watch Michael Vick run circles around the porous Bengal defense. It doesn't look like the Playoff Fairy will be making a call to Marvin Lewis' house. Peyton Manning turned Denver into a pretender by dissecting the Broncos defense, with a scalpel like precision. The Broncos refused to blitz and Manning made them pay. I don't think they were stopped once in the second half. The Colts got the ball back, in a tie game, with less than 2 minutes left and you knew the Broncos were history right then and there. Yes, Denver ran for over 200 yards, but when you do that, at home, and still lose, it doesn't matter. The Texans also let us down, out gaining the Titans 2 to 1, but they turned the ball over 5 times and also allowed a punt return for a TD. All that and they still only missed covering by 3. That was hard to take, but not as hard as watching Ben Roethlisberger throw 4 interceptions, 2 that got returned for TD's, against the hapless Raiders. Big Ben still looked like he was in a daze and should not have been out there. Pittsburgh out gained Oakland 400 to 100 yards and still lost the game outright. So much for making a playoff run. Pittsburgh is now 2-5 SU and the Fairy won't be stopping in the Steel City either. If I had these plays to make over again, I would definitely throw out Cincy and Denver, but Houston and Pittsburgh would still get my money. The Texans and Steelers also lost, but they were the better team. Like the old saying goes, "Sometimes you get the Bear, sometimes the Bear gets you." Boy, do the have sharp teeth.

Thanks and Good Luck, Ben

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"It's 'Deja Drew' All Over Again"

October 25, 2006

      The Soap Opera known as "Dallas" continued to hold its viewers despite a familiar story line. History repeated itself, on Monday night, before the biggest audience in cable history. Drew Bledsoe was reliving a bad dream, as he stood stone faced on the sidelines, watching Tony Romo, in the second half of the Cowboys loss to the Giants. Drew had been yanked at halftime by Coach Tuna. Bledsoe had a terrible half and ended it by throwing an interception, as the Cowboys were ready to take the lead before halftime. Bledsoe had been harassed, by the fierce Giants pass rush, all half and the statuesque one just can't get out of the way. The man runs like a wounded giraffe. Now the point, the Cowboys knew what they were getting when they signed Bledsoe, a guy with a good arm that can't get out of the way. The Tuna has coached Bledsoe in the past, on the Patriots, where he lost his job to Tom Brady in the Pats first Superbowl year under Belichick. Belichick is no dummy and he unloaded Bledsoe, like a bad used car, to division rival Buffalo. It was odd for a division rival to trade a player of his "statue" to another division team, but Belichick is no dummy and he knew that trade put 2 wins in the bank every year. Bledsoe had his moments with Buffalo, but those moments were only a tease. You thought he could do it, but in the end he never came through when it counted. He was terrible on the road and a joke against a good defensive team. The Bills knew they were going nowhere with this old war horse and kicked him to the curb. Enter Jerry Jones and the Tuna, for some reason they thought they could make a Miler out of a Quarter Horse. Well, those guys got exactly what they deserved, a quarterback that can't deliver in the clutch. Now, the Tuna has no choice but to start the unproven Tony Romo and it looks like their season is one flush away from the treatment plant. As we all know, "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it". Jerry Jones is an arrogant fool because he thought he could change T.O., and it blew up in his tightly sewn face, now the same has happened with Bledsoe. Congratulations Jerry you certainly are making your Cowboys "Must See TV". The problem is, like a bad face lift, people are not laughing with you, they're laughing at you. It couldn't happen to a nicer guy.

Thanks and Good Luck, Ben

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"Button Up Your Tutu Buffalo"

      It was a disappointing week in more ways than one, in Week 6 and it's aftermath. For those of you who haven't heard, we in the Buffalo area were under a State of Emergency for several days beginning on Thursday Oct. 12. The area got hit by a freak early season snow storm that dropped 2 feet of wet snow on us. The snow was not the problem,  as we hearty Buffalonians are well versed in dealing with snow. The problems arose because the snow fell on trees that were still holding their leaves. The heavy snow brought down many trees and branches and almost 400,000 people were without electricity for most of the week, including yours truly. You don't realize how dependent your life is on electricity until it's gone. No heat, no stove, no coffee, no TV, water in your basement. It was no picnic. The aftermath of the storm was compared to a category 2 hurricane. There is no tree in the entire area that escaped damage, the landscape will be changed forever and the cleanup will be going on for months. Now we get to my point, the Buffalo Bills left for Detroit on Saturday and saw the storm and it's destruction. This young team had a chance to sack up and play a game that everyone back home could be proud of. The community takes heart in their sports teams and the Bills could help take our minds off the problems at hand, for 3 hours, and build some goodwill with their downtrodden fans. It didn't happen. The Bills showed up, but didn't sack up, went through the motions and played a game everyone would like to forget. It was a disgrace. I know people who walked away from their TV's at halftime and went outside to continue their cleanup, instead of watching that joke of a football game. The athletes of today are not playing for their communities, they are playing for themselves. These millionaires have no connection with the common fan, they are mercenaries, playing for their paychecks. While the whole area was sacking up, shoveling snow, cutting trees in the middle of the road, helping their families and helping their neighbors dig out, this team of millionaires was sleepwalking in Detroit. The Buffalo Bills have a lot of nerve cashing their paychecks this week. My check will be minus a 5* loser. Thanks for nothing Buffalo Bills, and do us all a favor, next snow storm stay home and button up your tutu's, while us real Buffalonians put our gonads on the line.

Is it hockey season yet?

Ben

 "Taking The Long Way to the Bank"

      A 2-3 Week 5 ushered in the first losing week for yours truly. It was especially hard to take because 2 of the losers were snatched from the jaws of victory. Speaking of jaws, the Lions had their prey, the Vikings, right where they wanted them, up 17-3, +6.5, in the forth quarter. Then Detroit and our old buddy, Mike "The Idiot Savant" Martz, had yet another brain cramp. A couple of turnovers later and we were left out in the cold, without our dinner. Hey Mike, when you're up 2 TD's, in the forth quarter, it's time to run the ball not put it up for grabs. The Idiot showed why he's only a coordinator and still not the coach of the Rams. In a similar vein, the Ravens dominated the Broncos on a cold and rainy Monday Night, but they were only deadlocked with Denver at 3, in the forth quarter. Instead of continuing to pound the Rock, while in Denver territory, and grinding out the winning field goal, Brian Billick chose to allow Steve McNair to go to the air, a couple of incompletions later, the Ravens only got off a 10 yard punt. This led to a short field and the eventual winning field goal, for the Broncos. Next possession, McNair is forced to throw, Denver tacks one on, and we lose.  The bottom line is, coaches are idiots, despite the fact that they have been doing this their whole lives, they continue to do stupid things. Instead of letting the players play, they have to insert themselves into the action. Sometimes teams have to win in spite of their coaches, not because of them. Put that in your memory bank, because those idiots didn't let us "take it to the bank".

Thanks and Gook Luck, Ben