Hilton Happenings November 23

They may feel foolish and tormented, but they also are blessed this Thanksgiving Week as they head into Turkey Day tightly clutching the drumstick as well as the lead in the prestigious Las Vegas Hilton SuperContest.

Foolish, Tormented and Blessed used a 4-1 showing to leapfrog over Devils LLC and into the contest lead with 38 1/2 points, a full game advantage over Feral Child, Maxmillion and the former pacesetters with 11 weeks of the 17-week NFL season gone.

Devils LLC was 2-3, Feral Child 4-1 and Maxmillion 3-2 as first place keeps changing hands and the race continues to tighten. Deadlocked in third with 36 1/2 points apiece were A.N.C. and the Blue Team.

The Hilton's record field of 505 contestants paid $1,500 per entry and pick five NFL games weekly against a pointspread that's posted late Tuesday aftenon. They get one point for a win and half-point for a push.

Dogs barked loudly in Week 11 as nine of 16 covered. Conversely, the Hilton consensus line was 7-9. Carolina, an overwhelming choice as the consensus best bet, lost straight up to the surprising Chicago Bears as top plays slipped to 6-5-1, including one week when there were two consensus best bets.

Peyton Manning, Edgerrin James, Tony Dungy and the rest of the Indianapolis crew, ran the Colts' record to 10-0, making them the NFL's only undefeated team this campaign. Many bet shops, including the Hilton, are accepting wagers on an undefeated Indy proposition.

Green Bay, a 4-point favorite versus Minnesota Monday night and another big consensus selection, lost outright to the Vikings.

Lynda Collins is a documented member of the Professional Handicappers League. Read all of her articles at http://www.procappers.com/Lynda_Collins.htm

Why the 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers are the Best Team in NFL History

I'm 36 and have watched the NFL all season, every season for some 25-26 years. Not an eteity, but long enough to be able to give an accurate summarization of the last 30, of the last 40 super bowls. And the game has changed so much, the first 10 games are in an era where the rules were quite different, and even the season shorter. Believe me, if the Dolphins perfect season had the 2 additional games we have today comprising the 16 game season, it could have changed football history.

My summary of the games and teams I've watched is simply this. Many teams come and go but when it's playoff time, when it's big play time, when excitement is a must, the Pittsburgh Steelers have consistently delivered on more occasions than any other team in the leagues history. They have made at least one Super Bowl appearance in each of the last 4 decades, 3 in the 70's, the 80', 95' and now the new millennium. This makes em great but it doesn't really set them apart from the Cowboys or 49'ers, both of which also own 5 titles. What happened in the weeks leading up to Super Bowl XL is what separates the 2005 Steelers from every other team, every other franchise, every other group of men who have came together to compete in the game of football. While the media was busy stroking Payton Manning's ego and proclaiming that Tom Brady and the Pat's were back on track and ready take it to the house one more time, the Steelers were quietly planning their work, and it wouldn't be long until they worked that plan on every team that stood in their way.

The 2005 Steelers overcame more odds, compounded odds, than any other super bowl victorious team has ever had to face. They barely made it into the playoffs, and could have missed the post season altogether had it not been for a couple of weak teams that lost pivotal games. Yet what eventually decided the division championship between the Steelers and Bengals was a tie breaker, the Bengals had 1 more division win. How can a team involved in a tie breaker to decide the division not make it into the playoffs? It could have easily happened to the Steelers this year. But life came back to the team in the very late stages of the season and they were able to grab the last spot on the caboose. The dark horse was dismissed as "previously beaten" by Cinci, and the tone remained the same as the Steelers rode into Indy and stole the upset victory for a chance to play in the Championship game in Denver. By then the dark horse was getting a little more respect, and Denver was wondering what to expect. Their worst fear was to face a team that was in that zone, the unbeatable zone that propels teams to glory. Unfortunately for them, Denvers gut was right, and the Steelers smashed through Colorado and never looked back, handing the Broncos one of those old fashioned respect getter loses that finally cemented them as not only contenders, but favorites to win the big game over the Seattle Seahawks. And it distinguished the boys in black as the only team to ever advance to the Super Bowl from the lowest possible seed, 6th. The teams quarterback, Big Ben Rothlisberger, was a mere 22 years old but brought a record of 27-4 to the game. Ben also had a promise to deliver on, a promise he had made to Jerome Bettis who was seriously considering hanging up his cleats, after the previous years loss to the Pat's in Pittsburgh. Come back next year and we we'll make it all the way, I promise. Hines ward, Super Bowl XL MVP, made similar promises, and was obviously troubled by the thought of a ringless Bettis ending his career on such a sour note.

To seal the deal the game was being played in Detroit, the town which conceived and gave birth to Bettis, and a town that was certainly waiting with open arms for her son to retu in a blaze of glory. And glorious it was, a spectical I will never forget, a story line so perfect, the outcome had to be obvious from the start. A mere 4 hour drive from Pittsburgh, the crowd at the game that day was 90%-10% Pittsburgh fans. Bill Cowher, the 14 year head coach, relief and joy just running down the mans face, deserved that moment, that trophy, his ring, and most importantly his spot in the Hall of Fame. He worked relentlessly to put that team together, to motivate his players, to get to the big game and win it all. He went through the O'Donells, the Kordell's, the whoevers for 14 years before finding the right combination of talent and motivation and when it happened, when the timing was absolutely perfect, when it counted the most, when it was not an option to loose, he propelled his players into the brightest spotlight that they'll ever know. It was the Cinderella story that could never happen in a million years. But because this team was so special, and cared for each another so much, I honestly think they were blessed by the hand of God, from coming back to just barely squeak into the playoffs, from the field goal attempt by Vanderjagt of the Colts, the most accurate kicker in NFL history, which he missed from 46 yards in a pristine dome atmosphere, to the easy win over a 13-3 Broncos team, I feel as if God was answering a prayer from a person that showed him selflessness and love for his friends and team mates, and by doing so made an example of the situation to teach us all a valuable lesson about caring for others. When you care enough, when you try hard, when you make commitments and when you care about others more than yourself, and then go to God in prayer when you are down, he will lift you up and make you victorious over your opponents. If that same person or group of people on the Steelers squad continues pray to God with the same conce and intensity and genuine selflesness, the Pittsburgh Steelers will be unbeatable until that person or group leaves the team. I truly believe this, and don't profess to be a bo again Christian, but this stuff works folks. Sincere prayer works if your motivations are pure and it's what has made the 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers the best team in NFL history.

Ed Brown is the owner/operator of Tarheel Cigars located on the web at http://www.tarheelcigars.com

contact: admin@tarheelcigars.com

NFL Coaches on the Hot Seat Who Goes Who Stays

GONE

Mike Martz St. Louis: Martz is already speaking as though he's finished with the Rams. After it was announced Martz was done for the rest of the 2005 season due to his heart problems, he wasted no time in his criticism for the current hierarchy. His comments have angered team President John Shaw, and it's obvious that Martz doesn't really care who he pisses off.

Mike Tice Minnesota: Many wanted him gone each of the last two years, defeating the Packers in Green Bay may have saved him for a moment, but his ticket scalping scandal put him right back on the edge of the plank. Being the lowest paid coach in the NFL doesn't help with his "lack of authority", either. Getting run out of Minnesota may be the best thing that has ever happened to him.

Dom Capers Houston: While the talent simply isn't there to win, quarterback David Carr and the rest of the younger players have regressed and management for this "expansion" team knows after you while you get labeled a laughing stock if you continue to lose for just so long. The team is awful on both sides of the football, and after firing the offensive coordinator early in the season, the writing was on the wall for Capers.

LIKELY GONE

Mike Sherman Green Bay: This is the same organization (different GM I know) that ran Ray Rhodes was run out of Green Bay in 1999 after one 8-8 season. Many have said If he survives, it may be because of Brett Favre, but I doubt if the QB decides to retire because if Sherman isn't there. None of Favre's recent setbacks have pulled the uniform off him. The best coach on the staff is actually DC Jim Bates, though they'll probably go for a bigger name. In faiess, the team has been ravaged by injuries, but past failures bite Sherm you know where.

Jim Haslett New Orleans: This team has been fighting the odds all year and I give them credit for not going in the tank (yet), but Haslett should have been gone at least a year ago. That 4-0 finish at the end of 2004 saved him, even though the first 12 games were U-G-L-Y. Only way he survives is if Benson is too busy trying to move the team, that he doesn't want to waste time with a coaching change.

Norv Tuer Oakland: Suffers from Dave Wannstedt syndrome, great coordinator, bad coach. Wasn't impressed with him in Washington, not impressed now in Oakland. Al Davis isn't a patient man either, even though he's off season moves are usually pitiful. He somehow thinks they make the Raiders Super Bowl contenders every year, too bad the fans can't fire him.

50-50 CHANCE

Brian Billick Baltimore: Very likely this team gets dismantled and they take a different approach that Billick either isn't, or doesn't want to be part of. He still has plenty of respect because he brought a Super Bowl to Baltimore, but this offense has NEVER been good, because of both the personnel and lack of developing players. Offensive genius in Minnesota?? "Throw the ball deep to Randy!!" doesn't make you a genius, sorry.

Herm Edwards NY Jets: Another coach, like Sherman, whose team has been ravaged by injuries, and one a bigger stage (NY). But he's made quite a few blunders in games, from running backs "throwing" interceptions to clock management errors. Much better at press conferences that coaching football games. I'll give him credit for being a good motivator, but so was Ditka and Glanville.

The Rest: Steve Mariucci: Not going anywhere this year, it's all Joey's fault remember. Won't have him to blame if things don't go well in 2006.

Jeff Fisher: Thought he was a horrible coach ten years ago when he was all about the D. Grab a 7-0 lead early, try to sit on the ball for 55 minutes. But he started to let the OC show some imagination, and feel he's top notch at managing a game now. It's his call if he wants to pursue other opportunities.

Dick Vermeil: Classiest coach in the NFL, probably any sport. Probably ready to retire, but would love to see him make a strong playoff run before he hangs it up.

John Onan is sports moderator/writer at the online players union http://www.onlineplayersunion.com/forum/index.php

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NFL Toughens Steroid Policy

The NFL went a step further in toughening up its steroid policy by adding amphetamines to the band substance list starting in 2007.

Amphetamines were considered a substance abuse drug, but now are grouped in with steroids and will carry harsher penalties if violated. This season is a test year and if an athlete fails an amphetamine test - he'll be issued a waing and placed in a drug treatment program.

In 2007, the drug will be tested regularly and stiffer penalties for violators will be enforced. A first positive test will result in a four-game suspension, the same penalty now given for positive steroids tests. Major League Baseball also started testing for amphetamines this season as part of its steroids policy.

In addition to the amphetamines change, the penalty for a second positive test for performance-enhancing drugs was increased from six to eight games. A third positive test still carries a one-year suspension.

All of this comes on the heels of last years congressional hearings about drugs in sports. This is good for the NFL and for baseball as well. The sticking point comes in trying to keep up with HGH - Human Growth Hormone, and all the new steroids that come down the pike.

There isn't an effective test for HGH right now and new steroids are created almost daily. Some players will always look for shortcuts to gain a competitive advantage and since they do, drugs will be fuished to help them attain their goals.

The NFL and other sports are doing a decent job with their drug policies, but they must join together with congress and law enforcement to crack down on the vultures supplying the substances in the first place. Only then can the drug problem in sports be fought on a level playing field.

It's still an uphill battle because as long as we have a demand, there will be a supply. And we have a giant demand in this culture - not just in athletics but people from all walks of life are involved. Drugs are a serious threat to millions of lives and will only be defeated by collective cooperation.

The drug issue is a national issue. Sports is just a reflection of the culture it flourishes in. Only by working together can the problem ever hope to be solved.

Brian Carson is a writer and sports fanatic who, along with a select group of coaches has created the ultimate multimedia guide to coaching youth football at http://www.pigskinplaybooks.com To read more football articles go to http://carcoer.blogspot.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Carson

Matt Hasselbeck Seattle Seahawks Quarterback

A native of Boulder, Colorado, Matthew Michael Hasselbeck was bo on September 25, 1975. He currently plays the position of quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks after initially being drafted by the Packers during the 1998 NFL Draft.

After attending Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood, Massachusetts, Matt Hasselbeck entered Boston College. Immediately after, he was drafted in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft and began his professional football career in 1999 as backup for Brett Favre. The Packers later traded him and, in 2001, Matt Hasselbeck signed on with the Seattle Seahawks.

It would appear that the Seahawks made a good decision in selecting Hasselbeck, who became the team's all-time, highest-rated passer in 2003. In addition, he is currently ranked ninth in the NFL's all-time passer ratings. In 2005, Matt Hasselbeck's performance was regarded as one of the best in the NFL as he led the Seahawks to their third consecutive playoff appearance while boasting the highest passer rating in the NFC.

In January 2006, Matt Hasselbeck lead his team all the way to the SuperBowl XL and, even though his team was not victorious, this appearance marked the first for the Seahawks. With so many accomplishments, it's no surprise that Matt Hasselbeck's family would be filled with pride. He is the son of Don Hasselbeck, who is the former tight end for the New England Patriots and a brother to Tim Hasselbeck, who is the current backup quarterback for the New York Giants. His sister-in-law, Elisabeth, is best known as a co-host on daytime talk television's The View and she is also a former Survivor contestant. Reportedly in favor of being called Matthew, Hasselbeck finds that most do not abide by his wishes and usually refer to him as Matt instead.

Bob writes for fanfrenzyzone.com and GoAllout.com. Where you can purchase a Matt Hasselbeck or NFL Tickets. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Johnson

NFL Pete Morelli Should Have Upheld Troy Polamalu s Interception

The NFL admits that Pete Morelli made a mistake of reversing the interception made my Troy Polamalu. This coming from Mike Pereira, the league's vice president of officiating.

According to the official, the rule of having to make a football move to establish a catch is only in effect if contact is made with a defensive player. Nobody had touched Troy Polamalu and there was a long enough amount of time established to call it an interception.

I say the NFL is not doing enough. There were several other plays that the officials should admit to wrongdoing. The false start play where both teams were drawn offsides and no call was made. The Steelers player twitched and therefore a false start should have been called on the Steelers but the officials did not see a false start on the Steelers. If this was the case, then they should have called the Colts offsides. But they did not, they blew the call.

There was also a pass interference penalty that should have been called against the Colts but was not. The NFL officials cost the Steelers 3 points on that play.

There is too much precedence of failure on the part of their officials that they need to start making changes.

If you are looking to get a little bit of action on the games, then check out our sportsbook reviews for details on the safest places to wager online.

Mike Holmgren owes Bill Cowher and NFL Fans an Apology

Since when is it OK to totally snub the winner of an NFL game, let alone the biggest game of the year, the Super Bowl? Well that's exactly what Mike Holmgren, the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, did on Super Bowl Sunday after his team lost the game. Not only did he not meet Coach Cowher, the longest tenured coach in the NFL, on the 25 yard line for a congratulatory handshake as scheduled, it was actually Cowher who had to go out of his way to find Holmgren. The moment finally took place in the Seahawks locker room, so I can speculate on who pursued who. At a time when he should be enjoying his much deserved win, Coach Cowher was chasing down a sore loser, because Cowher knows how it works. The deal isn't done until the handshake. It's tradition, a tradition rooted in good sportsman ship. A tradition that Holmgren dismissed because he was angry. What a great example, what a wonderful role model he was to all of the kids watching.

In 1995, Cowher and the Steelers lost the Super Bowl to the Dallas Cowboy's under similar circumstances. Bad officiating, lot's of "if'y" calls, touch downs that really weren't. But when the clock expired and the game was over, Bill Cowher marched right into the center of the field and shook the victor's hand and offered a few kind words. He didn't slither out of the back door, he also didn't retu to his teams host city and bad mouth the officiating. He did give a losing coaches interview in the locker room and was seen embracing his tear-soaked family, obviously broken hearted by the loss. Coach Cowher has given his respect, he has given his props, he has played by the rules, and yet, even though he is the longest tenured coach in the NFL, everyone in the media, on sportscenter, even the NFL itself refuses to admit that Holmgren snubbed Cowher because he was angry. I wonder if this story would have been bigger had it been Bill Belichick that got shafted?

Don't get me wrong, I didn't have any axe to grind with Mike Holmgren, not until he pulled this nonsense. I've always thought he was a stand up guy, I even pulled for him and his Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers in 97'. You see Mike has been around the block a few times. He's not some 35 year old hot-head who's never seen the inside of the Super Bowl. The man has been there twice not including this last appearance, walking away with one trophy and one heartache. For him to be such a veteran coach with so much big game experience makes this insult and lack of respect from him even harder to swallow.

The NFL is talking about fining him for the remarks he made to the home town crowd in Seattle, in which he insinuated that the referee's were responsible for their loss to the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. I sincerely hope they levy the largest fine possible on his plump "wallet". Because the statement is not true. The Seattle Seahawks had just as much chance to win that game as did the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it was a battle of coaching and Holmgren was definitely out coached by Cowher. In the waning minutes of both halves of the game, Holmgren was managing the clock like it was a pre-season contest, not the Super Bowl. Constant mistakes which ground away the clock and his teams chance to win. His kicker missed field goals, field goals that super bowl champ's MUST make, just ask the New England Patriots. His best receiver dropped nearly every pass thrown his way. His MVP of the league running back never saw the inside of the end zone. Holmgren started the game passing, yet when crunch time rolled around and the clock was going away, he thought it was a good time to start running the ball for 3 and 4 yard gains. Yet Holmgren takes the low road and calls the ref's out and points his finger of blame in their faces.

On the other side of the field Coach Cowher was planning his work and working his plan, devising plays that totally caught the Seahawks off guard, including the Rothlisberger TD that was subjected to review, even though the ball obviously grazed the goal line, the Willie Parker run that caught Seattle in the all-out blitz that gave Parker clear sailing once he cleared the line, the end-a-round from Randle El to Ward for the kill shot. All Bill Cowher calls, all at the perfect time, and all very very effective against an absolutey bewildered Seahawks defense.

I hope this piece winds up, somehow, in front of Mike Holmgren because I have something to say to him: "Mike, Mr. Holmgren, Coach, you lost the game not because of bad officiating, you lost the game because you are not as good of a Coach as Bill Cowher. He took you to school, so try to lea a few things from him instead of throwing a tantrum and disrespecting one of the greatest coaches in league history. I can only hope that one day someone shows you total disrespect at a time when you should be congratulated for a job well done. You lost. Live with it."

My congratulations go out to the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, but more than that, I want to extend my respect and admiration for a true class act, Coach Bill Cowher, a native of Pittsburgh, which has gotta make this all the more sweeter. Although I don't play football, or any sport for that matter, you will always be my head coach.

Ed Brown is owner, operator, webmaster of Tarheel Cigars located on the web at: http://www.tarheelcigars.com

contact email: admin@tarheelcigars.com

Bet for Value NCAA Football

Betting "marquee" or television games is a popular Saturday recreational activity for squares and wise guys that causes radical fluctuations in the spread and can tu a sure winner into a sure loser. To protect us from denting our bankroll in the first weeks of the season we see the value in wagering on NCAA football games that are under the radar. The more obscure the game the better. What does it matter if you win a nickel on Easte Michigan or on the University of Michigan? This means you won't see Kirk, Lee and Chris spotlighting these games on Saturday moing.

In this space this college football season you won't see us recommending a lumber-play on USC, Texas or Iowa. In fact, the games we recommend you'll have a hard time finding on television, unless you live within the region. So fire-up the gamecast at your favorite online sports news website and flex your "refresh button" finger since the scoring lag will be great and they won't flash the score in the middle of the Notre Dame-Michigan game. Despite the setback of easily finding an accurate up-to-date score, and if you can bear betting a game you can't watch, we believe that you'll get as much value, if not more, betting schools in smaller conferences than you will in the bigger conferences where square money can and often does kill your bet or parlay.

This week, we have two games that the line has moved in our favor, despite being bet up early. We see that EMU has moved from five points to seven points and North Texas has moved from five points down to four. Now lets take advantage of the steam since we see something that the early money has not.

EMU EAGLES (-7) vs. ULL Ragin' Caguns (56 O/U)

This week we tu our attention to Yipslanti, Michigan. This added game opened with the Eagles as a 5-point "chalk" but was quickly bet up to seven by gamblers looking to get on the offensively minded Eagles before the square money takes over Saturday moing. So far the steam is on the Eagles and that makes me like this play even more. The total has remained locked at 56 points as the odds brokers fully expect this game to be a high scoring affair. We see the number in this game (even at five points) inflated due to several reasons. First and foremost is the 60-3 dismantling of the Ragin' Cajuns by the Texas Longhos. While Texas dominated every aspect of the lopsided affair, one has to consider that the Ragin' Cajuns were one of the only teams in Louisiana playing last week in the aftermath of Katrina and about 20 players are from the New Orleans area. The Eagles dropped their season opener to Cincinnati 26-28, but led at the half 20-14. However, it was the stellar play of the Eagles QB Matt Bohnet and the woeful display of the Cajuns defense against Texas that is also likely to account for the large number. Against the Bearcats, Bohnet went 22-of-33 for 167 yards and a 27-yard scoring pass to Eric Deslauriers in the first quarter. Bohnet accounted for 65 rushing yards on 10 carries making him the Eagles leading rusher.

Looking at this week's battle between the Sun Belt and Mid-American Conferences, we see a much more favorable situation for the Ragin' Cajuns-despite going on the road for their second straight week. Both teams bring identical 0-1 records and look at this game as a must win. No doubt about it, the Eagles are loaded with offensive weapons, however, their running game is suspect as is the case when your QB is your leading rusher. On defense, the Eagles had a hard time stopping the Bearcats as they allowed 469 yards of total offense of which 293 yards were rushing yards. Good thing for the Eagles they'll face an aerial attack by the Ragin' Cajuns as they get back their star WR Bill Sampy after he served his one-game suspension last week. Last year Sampy led the team with 57 receptions and 6 TDs. You can count on the Cajuns to throw the ball since their starting TB Chester Johnson is nursing an injured shoulder and is questionable for the EMU game. This is the first time that these two teams have met, and we see the teams trading points throughout this game as both team's defenses have proved porous. One statistic that fell by the wayside in the Ragin' Cajuns' loss to Texas was that of the 418 yards allowed, the Cajuns managed to hold Texas' air attack to 173 yards. If the Cajuns can hold Bohnet to pedestrian numbers they'll even have a shot at winning this game.

Pick: ULL Ragin' Cajuns +7

MTSU BLUE RAIDERS (-4) vs. North Texas Mean Green (48 O/U)

Question: How do you not bet North Texas when they're grabbing four points against a team they have never lost against? Mean Green puts its 25 game Sun Belt Conference winning streak on the line as they travel to the MTSU Blue Raiders this weekend. Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened the Blue Raiders as a 5-point home favorite and set the total at 48 points, the total has not moved while the early action had bettors grabbing the five points for the four-time defending Sun Belt champions. Maybe it is I, but don't you see something funky in that number, something that screams sucker bet? Due to the devastation from Katrina North Texas' opener at LSU was postponed, while the Blue Raiders dropped their first game against the Crimson Tide 26-7. In their loss one thing was abundantly clear to all who watched the game, the Blue Raiders will have to figure out their running game if they hope to win this week against North Texas. Against the Crimson Tide's stingy defense MTSU managed a paltry 34 yards on 25 carries! However, playing against a North Texas team with four new DL starters maybe the balm the Blue Raider running game needs.

We'll see if having played one game versus a team that has not played a game yet will make a difference. Keep in mind that North Texas has lost eight straight season openers. There is also the revenge factor for the Blue Raiders. Recalling last year at Denton, Texas when these two teams went head-to-head, MTSU held a 14-0 lead over Mean Green (who were a 3-point favorite) until the second quarter when the Blue Raiders gave up 24 points and suffered a tough 30-21 road loss. Last year's loss was MTSU's fourth consecutive loss to North Texas. Remember, defensively last year was a down year for Mean Green and certainly this year is still a rebuilding year for the DBs and DLs (four new starters). These are a few of the reasons that the Blue Raiders are the favorite in this game. However, what I believe is the key factor for North Texas in this game is red-shirt freshman Daniel Meager taking over for Scott Hall. True, all Meager has to do is not lose the game by handing the ball off to stud RB Cobbs and Thomas. But this is Meager's first start in the NCAAs and it comes on the road at Floyd Stadium. For the Blue Raiders I see QB Clinton Marks having a better day than against the Crimson Tide (12-of-18 attempts for just 117 yards and a 14-yard TD toss). On defense, Blue Raider linebacker Jonathan Bonner retued from a season ending neck injury in '04 and collected 5 1/2 tackles. Bradley Robinson had significant impact against Alabama with 8 1/2 tackles and one interception.

Answer: You bet against North Texas because they are playing their first game of the season on the road with a red shirt freshman quarterback against a team that has one game under their belt and a super accurate passer and is looking to revenge a loss. Despite the power running game the SBC streak ends at 25 for North Texas.

PICK: MTSU -4

Let me know what you think at impaler@docsports.com

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The Most In demand and Essential Tailgating Supplies Have a Great Party

For decades, tailgating has become bigger and better, as people spend more time and money on new and innovative tailgating supplies with each passing season. A lot has changed in the world of tailgating. Many people spend over $700 a year on food and supplies for up to 10 parties a season. Some fans take it to the extreme. It is important though to make sure your parties are about having fun.

Always be prepared. Make a list of the items you will need for set up, cooking, serving, and clean-up. Check off each as you pack. Remember to bring plates, napkins, towels, cups, utensils, first aid kit, trash bags, water, food storage containers, and damp towels to clean hands and face.

To be able to have a nice party, you need to have good supplies.

You might want to consider some of the following supplies that can be helpful in an enjoyable party:

Bar-B-Gater- this is an ultimate barbecue pit. You can use this with almost all vehicles. All you need is a 2" receiver hitch that is common on most SUV's, trucks and vans. The best thing about this is that, you can hook it up to your vehicle or unhook it from the vehicle when you are home again.

Tailgate Tables- this can be set up in seconds and it provides storage for eating and cooking utensils inside. This is a very convenient table to use that you can easily store in your vehicle.

A portable sun shelter system. It comes with a detachable bag and it is fully retractable with guy lines. The detachable bag unwraps and can also be tued into a personalized team banner.

Fan gate- this is a large banner and has a licensed logo printed on it. It straps to the tailgate of your pickup truck SUV or van.

TailGator Gas-Powered Blender- It's a great gas-powered blender. It makes great frozen food for car races, camping, football games, kayaking, cross country skiing, or at picnics.

Car Flags- this help to identify if somebody is having a party from a distance. Your friends would never have to spend countless hours looking for your tailgate party at the lot.

Collapsible Cargo Bag/Trunk Organizer- in here, you can conveniently organize your party supplies and other important things you need.

Freedom grill- An easy-to-use grill, it connects to any 2" receiver ball on your SUV, van or truck. You can "get your grill on" with this unique useful setup

Tepee Portable Restroom/Shower- this provides a common solution to restroom and shower facilities. A portable restroom, and this can be packed easily.

Pyrex portables food carrier set- this is where you can keep your cooked foods without any worries.

Keep it simple. Plan your menu or the things you need in advance by doing the prep work a day or two prior to the game or choose easy-to-tackle products that combine convenience with homemade taste. Be sure to give everyone ample time to eat, socialize, and clean up.

Having all these supplies ready for your party and definitely you will be having a great time. This is a one of a kind experience that you will definitely never forget.

And remember, the early bird gets the ... bigger space!

Nicola Kennedy has been organizing tailgate parties and picnics for nearly 12 years. Her site TailgaterEssentials.info offers news, tips and great ideas about tailgating parties.

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links back to TailgaterEssentials.info are included intact. All rights reserved. Copyright http://www.TailgaterEssentials.info

Donovan McNabb Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback

A native of Chicago, Illinois, Donovan McNabb was bo on November 25, 1976. After attending Syracuse University, McNabb now serves as quarterback for the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles.

Among his many accomplishments, Donovan McNabb was named the Big East Conference's Offensive Player of the Decade for the 1990's and Offensive Player of the Year for 1996, 1997 and 1998. In addition, he was named as the first-team all-conference quarterback during every one of his four seasons. With so many recognitions, it came as no surprise when Donovan McNabb set his sights on the NFL and professional stardom.

Even in his earliest years, Donovan McNabb showed an interest in sports as he was assigned as the quarterback for Mount Carmel high School in Chicago. At the conclusion of high school, McNabb strongly considered attending the University of Nebraska, but later decided to enroll at Syracuse instead. There, he is known as one of the school's most decorated athletes in history. A four-year starting quarterback and a reserve on the college's respected basketball team, Donovan McNabb is no stranger to competition.

In 1999, Donovan McNabb was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles. The following year, which marked his first full season as an NFL starter, McNabb placed second in the Associated Press MVP voting. In 2001, he eaed his second trip to the Pro Bowl after another successful season with the Eagles. Early in the 2002 season, Donovan McNabb was injured during a sack by two of the Arizona Cardinal players. After having his ankle taped, McNabb retued to complete the same game that ended after 255 yards and 4 touchdowns courtesy of Donovan McNabb's undeniable strength. After being initially reported as a sprain, the x-rays later revealed that McNabb actually suffered a broken ankle.

Despite some controversy in the 2003 season, Donovan McNabb lead his team to the NFC championship game. In 2004, the winning streak continued as the Eagles progressed to the Super Bowl XXXIX, where McNabb started as the team's quarterback. Even though they were not victorious, McNabb had more than proven his skills on the field and against all competitors.

During the 2005 season, McNabb suffered another injury and one that would ultimately end his season early. On November 21, he confirmed his decision to proceed with surgery. His strong family support system, which consists of a wife and daughter, were important to McNabb's recovery. His parents, Sam and Wilma, have gained their own fame after appearing in commercials

Bob writes for Fanfrenzyzone.com and EZTicketSearch.com. Where you can purchase a Donovan McNabb Jersey or Eagles Tickets Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Johnson

He ll Huff and Puff and Shut Down Your Running Game

Baseball might be known as the national past-time, but there is little debate about what sport Americans are most passionate about, and that is NFL football. In many sports markets around the nation, the NFL is a topic that never leaves the radio airwaves regardless of the time of year. It is late April, the 2006 MLB season is off and running, and just in case you haven't noticed, the NHL and NBA playoffs have actually already begun. But tu on your favorite sports talk radio station and the NFL draft is dominating all other topics in the world of sports.

The hot debate this year is what the Houston Texans will do with the number one overall pick. Will they take can't-miss RB from USC Reggie Bush? Or is hometown boy QB Vince Young the way they will go? We know Matt Leinart is no longer a lock to go number two to the Saints, now that they have signed free agent QB Drew Brees. So is OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson a soon-to-be Saint? What will the Titans, at pick three, do if Steve McNair actually sticks to his guns and refuses to retu to Tennessee? There are many interesting, drama-filled storylines that make this year's draft one of the most intriguing in recent memory, and therefore, the million-dollar question comes to mind: which projected first round draft pick will have the most impact in the NFL?

I think this is a very interesting question and one that can be debated until draft guru Mel Kiper gets a new hair-do. Everyone knows of the Bushes, Leinarts, and Youngs of the world. I have no doubt that all three of these players will eventually have good—if not great—NFL careers. What about the aforementioned D'Brickashaw Ferguson, the 6'6" 312-pound OT from the University of Virginia? He stacks up very well physically against some of the best OTs in the NFL. Walter Jones, Jon Runyan, and Tra Thomas just to name a few. There is also little doubt that Ferguson will be a very good player in the NFL. But one player who has somewhat flown under the draft experts' radar will, in my opinion, not only have the most immediate impact in the NFL, but when all is said and done could be at the head of this year's draft class. His name is Michael Huff, DB from the University of Texas. Yes, that is right, I said Michael Huff. Please allow me to explain.

There is little doubt that the NFL is a copy cat league. From week to week and season to season, teams study what works and they copy it. It is also a league of trends. Here are a few trends that will help make my point about how a DB, in Michael Huff, will be the biggest impact player to go in round one of this year's draft.

For one, take a look at the way things have changed with the running back position. These days there is so much specialization in this position that a true number one running back is no longer a must in the NFL in order to win games. There are first and second down backs, third down backs, short yardage backs, red zone backs, fast backs, and bruising backs as well as blocking backs. The Giants had Lightning and Thunder, Atlanta has Dunn and Duckett, the World Champion Steelers had "Fast" Willie Parker and The Bus, and the Broncos who for years have had the best running scheme in the league, recently have had a gaggle of backs that gets 10-15 touches a game. So the importance of the league having a true number one back has declined over the years in the NFL. Just ask Edgerrin James. That is one trend that supports my case. Reggie Bush may end up sharing carries and never have the opportunity to be the man. If he goes number one to the Texans, he will no doubt share carries with incumbent running back Domanick Davis. This trend hurts his case for being the player who will have the most impact.

Next, take a look at the QB position. More often than not these days the QB is simply asked to manage the game, make as few mistakes as possible, and are told, "whatever you do, don't lose the game for the team". They are not asked to win games as they once were, instead they are asked not to tu the ball over in critical parts of the game. You can win games in the NFL with a QB who simply does not make mistakes. They are no longer asked to carry the team on their backs and win every game. Check out Ben Roethlisberger's stats in Super Bowl XL. He was 9 of 21 for 123 yards, 2 interceptions, and zero passing touchdowns. Those are not great numbers and not stats that one would expect to see from the winning quarterback in the Super Bowl. But what he did was manage the game and he did not make critical mistakes during crucial moments of the game. So, trend two in the league is to have a quarterback who simply does not lose games for the team. Therefore, quarterbacks oftentimes have the ball taken from their hands and placed in the belly of one of the team's top two backs. Leinart and Young will be handing the ball off far more than they will be throwing it. That takes them out of the running for highest impact player in this year's draft.

That brings me to the third trend that I see in the NFL. This is the trend that I think more teams should adopt, the trend that I am counting on to prove my point about Huff being the man in this draft. The trend is retuing to the days of having a hard-hitting safety who runs around the field making plays, and wreaking havoc for the opposition's receivers, running backs, and quarterbacks. I'm talking about a safety who can defend the pass as well as fill the box and hammer the back with the ball. A safety who makes the quarterback and receiver think twice about going over the middle, therefore taking away that part of the field. Ronnie Lott and Steve Atwater come to mind as old school, hard-hitting safeties who were impact players.

These days, take a look at the impact that Troy Polamalu and Sean Taylor have made for their respective teams. Without the forceful play of Polamalu, the Steelers are a very different team. Polamalu had 73 tackles, 18 assists, 3 sacks, and 2 interceptions as a safety for the Steelers last year. Plus, he was second among all defensive players in the playoffs with 24 tackles. Taylor had 60 tackles, 10 assists, 2 interceptions, and 10 passes defended for the Redskins a year ago. Once again, great numbers for a safety. Other impact safeties are Ed Reed, John Lynch, and Roy Williams.

Bet NFL Football Futures @ WagerWeb.com Sportsbook

Let's break down the vitals on Michael Huff. He is listed at 6', 204lbs. At Texas he played SS as well as CB. A 6' safety who can hit and has the speed to run and cover is very hard to find. At the combine Huff ran a 4.34 40-yard dash. Another fact that I find helps Huff is that he is coming out of Texas as a fifth-year senior. He is mature and ready for the NFL. He is a premier candidate as a free safety in the NFL, but has the speed to play coer. Plus, I'm sure the team that drafts him will immediately put 10-15 pounds of muscle on his already stout 204lbs. frame. What a specimen he would be at 6', 220lbs. In his senior year at Texas he had 109 tackles, up 36 from the 73 he had as a junior. That goes back to the maturity level he has reached after having five seasons to lea how to play the game.

I think looking around the league at the success that teams have had with these play-making safeties makes Michael Huff a great pick for the San Francisco 49ers at pick number six. The 49ers finished last in total defense a season ago and gave up over 390 yards of total offense per game. Huff would help in both areas and would help immediately. Huff should be the first DB taken in this year's draft and will probably battle it out with Virginia Tech's Jimmy Williams for that honor. I believe the days of having a hard-hitting safety to anchor your defense have retued to the NFL and I like it. Michael Huff is the next big thing to hit the NFL and when I say hit, I mean it. Huff is the man in this year's draft and will be a fixture for years to come as an elite DB in the NFL.

The 2006 NFL Amateur Draft kicks off on Saturday, April 29 live from Radio City Music Hall in New York City and can be seen on ESPN. At noon the Houston Texans will officially be on the clock. Let the drafting begin. I for one cannot wait.

WagerWeb.com Contributing Writer

How to Buy SEC Championship Tickets

Let me start this article with a sincere "Thank You" to all of those who read my last article on "How to Buy World Series Tickets". I was contacted by numerous individuals who asked about getting tickets to all kinds of sporting events. (Who knew when I started my search for World Series tickets for my husband that I would be nicknamed the "ticket lady".) I have not had time to research getting tickets to all of these events, but I am taking them one at time…starting with the NCAA SEC Championship held in Atlanta, Georgia.

For those of you who live outside of the southeast, you are probably gleefully unaware of the seriousness to which college football is taken there. College football is a certifiable religion. SEC fans are much like the zealous evangelists proselytizing to the masses. (Of course, there is far more alcohol involved with the football.) There are 12 teams that comprise the SEC. The SEC Championship is the decisive game that crowns the winner of the very coveted SEC Football title.

My husband's friend, Dave came to me and asked for my advice in finding SEC Championship tickets for his girlfriend. Apparently, she is an LSU Alumni and much like her fellow SEC-ites, she is a rabid fan. I immediately took up his cause. Here are a few strategies I discovered in my search:

Strategy #1

Talk to friends, family members, colleagues and your brother's-wife's-sister's-boyfriend's-mom's-cousin who just happens to be a current ticket holder for the SEC Championship. Each year, current ticket holders have the opportunity to renew their SEC Championship tickets for the next SEC Championship game. Maybe you can sweet talk them in to letting you use the tickets for this year. If not…see Strategy #2.

Strategy #2

It may be a wise idea to go ahead and place your name on the 2006 SEC Championship Tickets Waiting List which is open from September 1st through December 31st. If there are any tickets available after the renewal period the SEC will randomly contact members on the tickets waiting list and give them the opportunity to buy tickets. Strategies #1, #2 and #3 maybe your only options to buy SEC Championship tickets at the face value, so it is definitely worth a shot. (**Note: the 2005 Waiting List is closed.)

Strategy #3

Contact the ticket office of the schools that are selected to participate in the SEC Championship and the Georgia Dome. Students, alumni and faculty usually get the first priority at the school box offices. All tickets sold through the ticket offices are sold for face value. The box office at the Georgia Dome will only release tickets if available, which is unlikely.

Strategy #4

Visit ConsumerChoiceReview.com. This is a great site that gives you all kinds of information about the major sporting events as well as various ticket brokers who specialize in the SEC Championship. You can feel confident that all of the ticket brokers listed on this site are reputable because consumers are allowed to review each ticket broker and their level of service. It even provides event information, so that you can impress your family and friends with your obscure sports knowledge!! Consumer Choice Review also gives you helpful information on how to protect yourself from purchasing counterfeit tickets.

Strategy #5

Another option for SEC Championship tickets is www.ebay.com. Ebay will have a plethora of tickets, but consumers should be aware that you could be paying top dollar for a ticket that is fraudulent. I have heard horror stories of people buying on Ebay, so I have always been leery of using it. I found some really good tips on using Ebay on Consumer Choice Review. This site provides a step by step guide to buying on Ebay.

Strategy #6

Go to the stadium and take the risk that there are no tickets available from scalpers. Or that the tickets that are available are ridiculously expensive or even worse, possibly counterfeit or stolen. I would never pay hundreds of dollars in cash for tickets that could tu out to be fake or stolen. You should always use a credit card because they offer protection of purchases that tu out to be fake or stolen tickets. ***Be very careful when taking this approach and be sure to read the tips posted on Consumer Choice Review prior to taking this strategy.

All in all, there are several options to find tickets to any sporting event you want to attend, whether it is the SEC Football Championship or the NCAA Final Four. The deciding factor is how much are you willing to pay? And what price are you willing to put on your protection as a consumer?

Amanda Gooch is a freelance writer with years of experience writing for and about various industries. She is currently focused on the world of consumer marketing and research. ConsumerChoiceReview.com is an objective third party site focused on helping consumers find the best!

2006 NFL Draft The Ins and Outs

With the first overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans passed up Reggie Bush and the hometown fan favorite, Vince Young, for defensive end Mario Williams out of North Carolina State. Although Williams, without question, has many physical gifts, I think the Texans may be seeing more in this kid than what is actually there. Not to go along with popular opinion, but when you have an opportunity to take an exceptional talent like Reggie Bush, you have to jump on it. The Texans felt that Williams fills more of a need in that they needed to improve their defensive pass rush. But if they really wanted to fulfill needs they should have been looking to improve their offensive line which likes to throw lookout blocks for David Carr. When you have the #1 overall pick, you need to go with the best overall player in most cases, which to me, is Reggie Bush, and this was definitely one of those cases. Williams' big knock is that he has been known to take plays off. This is another reason why I wouldn't have grabbed him if I was Houston. He also is not a refined fundamental football player. He has gotten by on ability, which leads Houston to believe that with some instruction he can be exceptional. If the Texans were worried at all about the recent off-the-field issues surrounding Reggie Bush and his family, they shouldn't have been. They should have been more worried about Mario Williams' work ethic, which could keep him from fulfilling his potential.

With the Houston Texans passing over Reggie Bush, it allowed the New Orleans Saints to grab him as the #2 overall pick. Bush was a no-brainer for the Saints, and I expect the Texans to be kicking themselves with every highlight reel he makes. I don't think his road in New Orleans will be smooth sailing, but we will definitely see some glimpses of greatness this season. I would say he was heading into a dead end road, but the addition of Drew Brees to fill a major void at the QB position makes things look a little bit brighter for the Saints. Many question Bush's ability to be a 20+ carry a game guy. They don't think he has the durability. I think this guy will prove to be tougher than he has been given credit for. Experts were comparing Bush to Gale Sayers this past season, but to bring things a little more up to speed, I see him playing like a Marshall Faulk, especially along side Brees who is great at throwing short touch passes and screens. These guys could be one of the great backfields in the making.

Many experts thought Vince Young's draft position would drop because he isn't the prototypical NFL quarterback. Neither was Michael Vick or Donovan McNabb or Steve "Air" McNair for that matter. Leinart was actually projected to be the first QB taken in this year's draft, but it's about time some of these NFL teams were able to see past the end of their noses. The former Houston Oilers got a Houston kid in Vince Young that they should be ecstatic about. Sure there are questions about his throwing mechanics, but you have to love his 6'6'' frame, great speed and mobility. He might benefit from some technical coaching on his throwing mechanics, but I don't think Tennessee should try to totally change this kid before seeing him in action. He silenced all those who doubted his passing ability last season with a 63.9% completion rate and 2.769 yards threw the air. In my opinion he has the ability to be better than a prototypical QB because he is more than a QB; he's a playmaker. And perhaps his most impressive attribute is that he is a proven winner.

I'm a little bit surprised the Jets didn't go with Leinart. He could have fit the mold of the former New York Jet Broadway Joe. Leinart's swagger is a little bit more reserved, but he is equally as confident and already accustomed to playing in a big market. The Jets did get better with their draft selection however. D'Brickashaw Ferguson is just as his name states a brick wall. He could emerge as one of the premier tackles in the game. I'm not sure he is to the same point as Orlando Pace when he came out of Ohio State, but I think this kid could be the best offensive lineup to come out since Pace. At just 265 pounds, he will need to get bigger, especially in his legs as drive blocking for the run is probably his biggest weakness right now. He is already very adept in pass blocking as he is exceptional at picking up blitzers. Look for Ferguson to jump right in and start at left tackle or the Jets could move him inside to use his speed as a pulling guard. Perhaps he wasn't the popular choice, but a very solid pick up for the Jets.

The Packers appear to be getting a good one in A.J. Hawk. I may have thought about taking Chad Greenway from Iowa with this pick as Greenway is better in pass coverage and seems to have better big play making ability (he reminds me a little bit more of Brian Urlacher), but Hawk is as consistent a tackler as you'll see and ultimately the Packers felt a linebacker more suited to the run would be the better choice playing in the Black and Blue division. I'll be excited to see Hawk and Greenway play against each other when the Vikings come to Lambeau. Many linebackers in the league are faster than Hawk, but I think you'll find that his 4.65 forty that he ran at the combine is not an indicator of his ability to chase down the football. He takes great angles and he's faster than a 4.65 on the field in pursuit. Green Bay is getting a warrior in A.J. Hawk.

Jimmy Boyd is a documented member of the Professional Handicappers League. Read all of his articles at http://www.procappers.com/Jimmy_Boyd.htm.

Fantasy Football Quarterbacks

I have always felt that quarterbacks were undervalued in fantasy football. In most scoring formats, they put up more points than any other position (yes, including the vaunted running backs). However, most people tend to dismiss quarterbacks as not worthy of a high pick because they all put up around the same amount of points. I feel that the point differences between a top and mid-level quarterback and a top and mid-level running back are about the same.

In a standard Yahoo fantasy league, I'm going to look at the difference in fantasy points between the top ranked QB and RB and the 10th ranked QB and RB. The top ranked QB was Peyton Manning, with 356 points, and 10th was Aaron Brooks with 187 points, a 169 point gap. The top ranked RB was Shaun Alexander, with 194 points, and the 10th ranked RB was Willis McGahee with only 127 points. The point spread here is only 67 points. Because leagues usually have 2 runners and only 1 quarterback, ill compare Alexander to the 20th ranked runner, Thomas Jones, who had 97 points. Between first and 20th, there is a 97 point gap.

In addition to having a far lower point spread, the running backs amass far fewer total points. The top RB, Shaun Alexander, only has 7 more points than the 10th QB, Aaron Brooks. The only reason running backs are ranked so much higher than quarterbacks is because, for no real reason, people tend to snap up running backs early. If you don't pick a back early, you will be stuck with a Warrick Dunn or a Brian Westbrook, who, while still good, are much worse than the top backs.

Most every QB had a career season last year, which can be attributed to the new pass interference rules. So bear in mind that next year, after defensive backs and referees adjust to the new rules, QB numbers overall may go down.

The 2005 season QB rankings:

1. Peyton Manning: He threw for 4500 yards and 49 touchdowns last year, so he should be your top overall pick, not just the top QB. I don't think he will get 49 touchdowns again, as his previous career high was 29. But he should still get over 40 touchdowns with similar yardage numbers.

2. Daunte Culpepper: This guy should be a first-rounder. His season gaered almost no media attention, but he had one of the best seasons ever for a quarterback, setting an all-time record for combined yardage. He had 41 combined touchdowns and threw/ran for 5100 yards. In fact, in leagues that emphasize yardage, he could be more valuable than Peyton Manning. Similarly to Peyton Manning, his record-setting season came out of nowhere; his previous career highs were 4400 combined yards and 33 touchdowns. I personally believe that he will do just fine without Randy Moss (I think that Daunte benefited Moss's numbers more than Moss helped his). Nate Burleson is a fine #1 receiver, and expect something around 35 touchdowns and 4600 combined yards out of him.

3. Donovan McNabb: T.O. and Westbrook have ended their holdouts, and McNabb looks poised to put up similar numbers to last season. Expect over 3500 yards and 30 touchdowns.

4. Trent Green: He tends to get overlooked, but he has been more than solid for several years despite having no wide receivers at all. If Eddie Kennison can repeat last year, and if Marc Boerigter, a touchdown machine, can play well coming off an injury, he will be solid. Samie Parker could also play a big role in the Chiefs offense. I'm going to say he gets 4000 yards and 25 touchdowns.

5. Jake Delhomme: He is a very good quarterback, and with the retu of Steve Smith, Stephen Davis, Deshaun Foster, and the rest of the team from injury, he should have an opportunity to improve his numbers from last year. The emergence of Keary Colbert last year was a pleasant surprise, and his continued development will take attention away from Steve Smith and open up the passing game. Expect 28+ touchdowns and 3600 yards out of him.

6. Drew Brees : His season did literally come out of nowhere, but he had 3150 yards and 29 touchdowns, and with Reche Caldwell and Keenan McCardell back from injury, he might even do better. Having Antonio Gates back from his holdout also helps his value. He should get 30 touchdowns and 3300 yards.

7. Tom Brady: Tom Brady is a solid starter, usually notching around 25 touchdowns and 3700 yards every year. The Patriots lost David Patten this offseason, but with the way they spread the ball around he shouldn't be a factor. They regain Ben Watson, and they signed a boatload of receivers, including Tim Dwight and David Terrell. Deion Branch and David Givens are a very underrated top 2, and expect around 3800 yards and 25 touchdowns from Brady.

8. Marc Bulger: He has an amazingly talented group of wide receivers, headlined by Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt. He is also in an offensive system that is very pass-happy. I hear people saying his breakout year is going to come this year, but I don't believe it. I say 4000 yards and 20 touchdowns.

9. Brett Favre: Not many people would but Favre this low, but the loss of both the starting guards(Wahle and Rivera) from last year's o-line is troubling. The offensive success of this team stemmed in no small part from its stellar o-line, and Brett Favre will undoubtedly not get as much time in the pocket as he did last year. But its hard to bet against Favre, and I'm going to say he notches 3000 yards and around 22 touchdowns.

10. Jake Plummer : He throws way too many interceptions for people's liking, but he does get the numbers. You may not want to get him in a league that heavily penalizes interceptions, but his last year stats of 4100 yards and 27 touchdowns are appealing in all other leagues. Last year was by far a career year for him, so I'm going to say he gets 3000 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Vikas Paruchuri is a sports columnist who writes on the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB. He maintains a website at http://www.thehomefield.com with sports analysis and opinion columns.

The Key To Winning Fantasy Football

Fantasy football is easy. Very easy. Simply start players that outperform your opponents'. But, how can you be so sure who will perform?

Research.

Research.

Research.

Don't like research, eh? That's why the inteet is so da great! Websites will do the work for you, and all you have to do is check them weekly. The key topics you should check:

Cheat sheets: Have one of these handy when drafting, so you know the top players at each position. Make sure it is up-to-date so you don't draft a player who is injured for the season.

Strategic articles: Doing a little reading might be the key to your next victory. If you lea about a sleeper, picking him up in your league can be the move of the year.

Weekly picks: Know what teams have tough matchups, and who you should start or sit based on those matchups. Don't get stuck starting players who are in for a bad week.

Forum: Conversing with other fantasy football enthusiasts can give you some hints and tips that other members of your league aren't hearing. Use everything you read to your advantage.

It's that simple. Knowing a little bit more than your opponent is usually all you need. As they say, "Keep it simple, stupid."

Mark G. runs Fantasy Football Spiral ( http://www.ffspiral.com ). A simple click will lead you to a valuable treasure chest of information, which will help you win your fantasy league. Participate in the forums, check out the mock drafts, read some articles - every little bit helps, and Fantasy Football Spiral wants to help you win your league in 2005.

Sizing Up the Competition Washington Redskins Breakdown

OFFENSE

The Redskins figure to have an improved offense with the additions of Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randel El. These two give Mark Brunell a myriad of weapons along with Santana Moss and Chris Cooley. However, I have a bad feeling about Mark Brunell this season. This offense and perhaps the entire team will only go as far as Mark Brunell can take them. If Washington's offense struggles, they won't win this tightly contested division. One key element that will help out Washington is their running game. Clinton Portis is one of the league's elite backs, and the Skins possess the division's best offensive line.

New offensive coordinator Al Saunders should make for an interesting season as well. Saunders is an offensive guru, but only time will tell how long it will take for the offense to master his scheme. It might take a half a season before this offense is hitting on all cylinders.

DEFENSE

The best defense in the division last year was in Washington. They were an overachieving bunch led by Gregg Williams. The problem with an overachieving defense is that they will usually begin to play to their ability. To combat this, they went acquired two key players. Andre Carter could finally give them a legitimate pass rusher, and Adam Archuleta gives them the strong safety they have been looking for. These two pieces should keep them at or near the level at which they played last year.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Redskins should have a solid special teams units. Their kickers are only average, but Antwaan Randel El is one of the league's best punt retuers.

BREAKDOWN

Rankings are from 1 to 4 (1 being the best in the division)

QB - 4RB - 2WR/TE - 3OL - 1Passing - 4Running - 2Total Offense - 2DL - 3LB - 3CB - 3S - 2Run Defense - 1Pass Defense - 3Total Defense - 2Special Teams - 3

Avg. Rank - 2.8

Writer & Creator of http://www.cowboys-fan.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_Dunklin

A Bit of Football History for Your Party

Football historical facts are fun use at a Super Bowl or football themed party. Take notes and create fun trivia games from the following infomation.

NFL Football is one of the most popular American sports, attracting thousands of participants and millions of spectators annually. The forerunner of American football may have been a game played by the ancient Greeks, called harpaston. In this game there was no limit to the number of players. The object was to move a ball across a goal line by kicking, throwing, or running with it. Classical literature contains detailed accounts of the game, including its rougher elements, such as ferocious tackling.

Most mode versions of football, however, originated in England, where a form of the game was known in the 12th century. In subsequent centuries football became so popular that various English monarchs, including Edward II and Henry VI, forbade the game because it took interest away from the military sport of archery.

In 1920, the American Professional Football Association was formed; one year later it was reorganized and in 1922 was renamed the National Football League. fifty years after the inception of the first pro football association, combined sixteen NFL teams with ten AFL teams to comprise one league with two conferences.

NFL Football party supplies like paper plates, napkins, and cups are a nice way to complete a NFL Football Party Theme. Party decorations using NFL Football Party Themes like a football piñata can act as a centerpieces and can also double as party prizes. Party favors like NFL Football stickers, whistles, foam fingers, football shaped caps, and helmets fit an NFL Football Party Theme.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the inteet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Here is a place to buy Football Party supplies

How to Handicap Football Like The Pros

Hello my name is Chris Liput professional handicapper with Fast Actin Handicappin. We provide pro and college football picks for the sports investor. This is a good article I found on the Coaches coer website and thought it was worth sharing with those who like to bet or do there own football gambling picks. I always recommend hiring a handicapping service such as Fast Actin Handicappin. Handicapping football takes a lot of time. But if you have free time, and don't want to pay for a service then here our some tips from the below article that may help you. Enjoy the read below.

It's Friday evening, and you've resigned yourself to some "serious handicapping" before your big football weekend. Said handicapping consists of an hour or two of studying the past week's injuries and line moves, and the past month's trends. You allow time for intermittent snack breaks and other unexpected disturbances, but when you sit back down in front of your newspaper/computer/sports weekly, you're all business.

Fast forward to Sunday night. After watching your games and highlight shows, you ask yourself over and over, "What went wrong? I put in some quality handicapping time, and was confident in my wagering. Why am I only at 40 per cent?"

If the above scenario sounds even remotely familiar, be assured that you are not alone. You are a part-time handicapper with unrealistic expectations of yielding huge profits. Handicapping NFL and college football is an exercise in discipline and time management. To put it plainly, you reap what you sow. If you've put in an hour of handicapping for the week, your results will reflect that. Some handicappers feel that cramming is the best approach: spending an entire evening studying all available info and stats. However, the most successful method is to build a schedule around your work and family obligations, allowing yourself a substantial amount of uninterrupted handicapping time each day.

On Monday of each week, your timetable should include reading full accounts of the past Saturday's college games and Sunday's NFL games. Your local newspaper's brief summaries won't cut it. Online resources provide full play-by-plays of each game, which will give you vital information on a given team's performance, regardless of the final score. Monday should be spent exclusively on bringing yourself up to speed on everything that's happened during the past two days.

Tuesday's agenda should be dedicated to looking at the stats and numbers from games played, in addition to studying relevant trends. Pay particular attention to tuovers forced and committed, and to rushing and passing yards.

Mid-week, occupy yourself with reading quotes from coaches and players, which will give you an idea of how a certain team is doing both mentally and physically. The NFL's injury report is usually made on Wednesday. Be cautious though, because some teams are more forthcoming with injuries, while others can be somewhat deceptive. Midweek articles can also be very valuable. Gain insight into a team's upcoming performance based on comments made by coaches and players.

Your Thursday schedule should include checking out line moves. Factor in injuries, illnesses, and suspensions, as well as public opinion based on hunches. If, by early in the day, you're not feeling confident about the evening college game, save your time and money for the upcoming weekend games.

By Friday, you should be down to tying up loose ends, while remaining up-to-date on any last-minute injuries and line moves. By now, you should feel confident in your picks and wagering amounts.

On Saturday and Sunday, be sure to watch as many games and game highlights as you can. No amount of stats or articles can replace an actual eyewitness account of how a team played.

By following a strict daily schedule for handicapping NFL and college football, you should see a definite improvement in your wagering revenue. Handicapping is hard work, and very time-consuming, but if you resist the so-called "short-cuts" and put in a significant amount of studying time, you won't find yourself shaking your head on a Sunday night, wondering, "What went wrong?"

This article was taken from the Coaches coer.

Please visit our site at www.FastActinHandicappin.com or http://www.FastActinHandicappin.com

Chris Liput with referencing Coachescoer.com

New York Giants 27 Kansas City Chiefs 17 Lack of Follow Through Dooms Chiefs

When I was 11 years old, my Dad was transferred from Miami to Kansas City. The biggest thing I was worried about was if they would have Match Box or Hot Wheel cars in Kansas. They did.

A bit of a culture shock, though a really good one.

One of the many really cool things that happened while living in Overland Park, Kansas, a suburb of Kansas City, was we were there when the Chiefs won the Super Bowl. I've still got the poster, sweat shirt and the autograph of Otis Taylor, the Chiefs great receiver.

So any time the Chiefs play, I'm on their side.

Lack of follow through leads to defeat

I tell just about everyone with whom I work, whether counseling/coaching client, article writing student or mentee, whoever, that the fortune is in the follow through.

One of the places that football mirrors real life is in tackling. To make a successful tackle, you have to follow through. To be successful at anything in life, you have to follow through.

I lost track of how many tackles were missed by the Chiefs on Saturday. I saw many half tackles and arm tackles, and very few complete tackles.

When you don't follow through on the football playing field, you lose. When you don't follow through on the life playing field, you lose.

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Excitement With The NFL Draft 2006

It is time once again to hold the NFL draft and pick college athletes that want to go into the professional football league. Each year, hundreds of hopefuls meet to show sports scouts what they can offer to a pro ball team about ten weeks before the actual draft takes place. They are tested, not only by their ability to play ball, but are also given a personality test and an intelligence test. While these tests are not the most important, players this year like Vince Young, a potential new quarterback, who might not have scored as high as people hoped, might not be drafted. There is some speculation as to why he was permitted to retake the test. It was blamed on a test marker's error, but some feel he was given a second chance. This is only one of the many exciting events going on in the weeks before the NFL draft.

The official draft of 2006 will be held in ten weeks. This means the players need to show off as much as possible in front of sports agents and scouts who will decide their fate. Other players in the running for a quarterback position are Jay Cutler and Michael Huff. They are the favorites at the moment. There is a great amount of tension in the weeks leading up the announcements. Many people play football for the chance to go pro. While there are many hopefuls, only a select few will go on to ea big paychecks and get their shot at the Super Bowl.

Being drafted does not only mean playing pro ball, but also means endorsement packages which could make a person a lot of money. Once a player has tued pro, they are often offered commercials or even movie or two. Not all players in the NFL are offered endorsements, only players that audiences identity with and admire. However, all players aspire to make that extra cash. So, when draft time comes around, you can be sure what will be on the minds of those hopefuls.

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Football The Defense

As important as the offensive unit is to scoring in the game of football, the defensive unit is just as important for keeping the opposing team from crossing the goal line. In baseball they say good pitching stops good hitting. Well, in football a good defense stops a good offense. We're going to briefly review the roles of the defensive unit for a team.

It's hard to say what the most important part of a defensive is. Each part of the unit has a different function and each function is important in its own way. If any one part of the unit breaks down, it usually ends up in a score for the opposing offense.

The main line of defense is the defensive line which is made up of tackles and ends. These are the men who rush the quarterback if they see a pass play coming or try to tackle the running backs on a run play before those backs get too much yardage. This is called down in the trenches because the game of football is a game of gaining ground a very little bit at a time. If you need 10 yards in 4 downs to make a first down then that means a running back only needs to gain 2.5 yards for each time he runs the ball. That means the defensive line has to hold him to under 2 yards per carry. Not an easy thing to do. On pass plays they want to get to the quarterback as soon as possible because the longer a quarterback has to throw the ball the better the chance that his pass will be completed. Yes, the defensive line has a very big and important job.

After the defensive line is the secondary unit. These are the linebackers. Should a running back make it past the defensive linemen, it is the linebackers job to tackle them before they gain too much ground. The linebackers also protect against pass plays. Because of the complex pass routes that receivers run, most linebackers play in what is called a zone so that if any receiver enters that zone they can be ready to prevent a pass from being caught. The middle linebacker is the pretty much the coordinator of the defense. He is usually the one who has his eyes on everything that's going on.

The coerbacks are the ones who shadow the wide receivers on deep routes. It's their job to stay with the receivers every step down the field. Because receivers are so fast, coerbacks have to be just as fast in order to keep up with them. It's their job to make sure that any pass thrown their way is not caught. If they can intercept a pass, all the better.

Finally there are the safeties. These two guys are pretty much the last line of defense. If anyone gets past the linebackers and coerbacks, it is the job of the safeties to prevent the opposition from getting into the goal area.

The defense of a football team, if it's good enough, can many times snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Never underestimate a strong defense.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Football Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

The 7 Laws of Football Quarterbacking

In all of my research, over a period of several years, the finest information I have ever read on quarterback leadership came from my friend Frank Carideo. The purpose of this information was to outline the process by which a quarterback was trained at Notre Dame, under coach Knute Rockne. This course of quarterbacking was as exacting in many respects as any collegiate course.

Coach Rockne had seven cardinal principles of quarterbacking that were preached over and over again.

1. A Quarterback must maintain a cocky air at all times.

a. You want your Quarterback to show other teams that he knows what he is going to do next—there isn't a bit of doubt in his mind about what he is going to do on the next play.

b. You want his facial expressions to indicate to your team and your opponents' team that he not only knows what he is going to do next, but that he is going to do it successfully, for all that they can do to stop him.

c. Be sure he understands that this is just an air. It is a role he is playing. It isn't himself that you want to be cocky; it is the Quarterback. You don't want your boys to be too cocky. There is a limit, and he must know it.

He might offend the members of his own team. His job is to irritate the members of the other team, not his own. You want that cocky air at all times—and on the practice field is one of the times.

2. You want a Quarterback with a clear, staccato voice. You want a voice that is forceful and decisive. You want it to be heard and to be understood when it is heard. You want it to be recognized by your own team as the command of one who is about to lead his army somewhere to a definite objective. You want it to be recognized by the enemy as the voice of one who is going to reach that objective with his army, no matter what might be done by anyone to stop it.

3. This third law is a variation of the first. You want your Quarterback to know what he is going to do next and to do it. You don't want him to show at any time, at any time whatever, that he is in doubt about his next move. And, you don't want him to show that he is worried or communicate any such feeling to his team. Stress this point—though we are beaten—and at times badly—we will never become demoralized.

4. The fourth law of generalship is a vital one: Observation, at all times, of the defensive alignment of the opposition. Have him observe at all times and ask himself the question: Who made the tackle? Also those that were not in on the tackles. Try to observe any glaring weakness in the defensive line or in the secondary. Especially on passes. Illustration on a charging half back and shooting line backer.

5. Choice of plays. Remember what plays have been going successfully and, of equal importance, those that have failed to gain ground. If plays gain ground they should be used until the defense shifts about to meet them. Then it will be time to resort to other plays. There is no law against retuing to the successful plays later on if conditions warrant.

6. The sixth law comes into the field of generalship and strategy. At all times the Quarterback must keep his plays in sequence order. Some plays are to be used as checks, others as feelers. At times it may be necessary to sacrifice a play to make those that are to follow successful. This, of course, necessitates a quarterback's looking a long way ahead.

7. The seventh and last law is one of precaution. Whenever in doubt, your Quarterback should do one of two things. The most natural is to kick. The other is to call time out and ask the linemen for information regarding the alignment and characteristics of the defensive linemen. More often you will punt when in doubt. Punting is almost always the safe procedure.

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Football How To Know If You re A Football Fanatic

Everyone knows that NFL football is the most popular sport in America. For that matter one could argue a case that football is the most popular sport in the world. It makes no difference what time of year it is to any football fan. True football fans live for any news on the NFL year round. Here is an amusing list of how to know if you're really a true football fanatic or not.

NFL Pre-Season Football

You know you're a real football fanatic if you watch every minute of televised NFL pre-season football. It doesn't matter to you if the games don't count in the standings. This is football! How else will you ever know if that street free agent quarterback from Southwest Montana State will become the next Joe Montana?

NFL Regular Season

This is what it's all about for the football fanatics. No one should plan anything that would interrupt you from watching the big games. With the remote in one hand and plenty of food and drink in the other, it's game time!

Clothing and Apparel

Any real NFL fan is going to have their favorite teams clothing on. This must have list includes hats, shirts, ties, socks, shorts, sweatshirts, winter parkas and pajamas.

Souvenirs

This is where football fans get really serious about their teams. You must have an autographed team football on display. You will also need to have an autographed authentic NFL football jersey of your favorite player hanging on the wall in a frame. Other popular souvenir items include glasses and cups with your team's logo on them. Optional items that most football fans have may include trash-cans, clocks, lamps, outdoor displays, shot glasses, posters, golf balls and bag, bumper decals, grill covers and license plate frames, all with your team logo on them.

Fantasy Football

When you're not spending time in front of the TV or computer watching an NFL football game, then you're playing fantasy football in local league. You constantly go over the stats and try to make trades to help your team win.

Computer

Don't forget to have your favorite football team's logo on your computer screen saver.

TV

You know you're a true NFL football fanatic when you go out and buy a new TV for the Super Bowl. You want to be sure you can have a new big screen for your party before the big game.

Super Bowl

The best day of the year! It's finally come time for the biggest football event of the year. You know you're a true fan if you sit and watch all 12 hours of the pre-game show. Nothing short of a medical emergency will keep you from missing a minute of the action, no matter whether your favorite team is involved or not.

Others know you're a football fanatic by the size of the Super Bowl party you have every year. This is your big moment and you're not going to blow it. Even after the big game is over, all is not lost. The season is not over just because the Super Bowl ended. You know that in a week the Pro-Bowl game will be on!

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Football Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

An Insight Into Michael Owen

Do you think Michael Owen is past his best? Do you think he should still command a regular starting place in the England team? Has Michael Owens injuries affected him too much? Has Michael lost some of his passion to the play at the top level of the game? In this article I give my own opinion about these questions, I hope you enjoy the read.

Michael Owen burst onto the inteational football stage with what can only be described as a wonder goal against Argentina in the World Cup. At this stage he had pace to bu and was lethal in front of goal. The future was very exciting for his club, country and of course for himself.

Owen played for Liverpool for many years and scored lots and lots and goals. A couple of years ago he moved clubs to Real Madrid. At Madrid he did not in my opinion seem to get much a chance, however his goals to games ratio was still very impressive. During this period Michael started to have a few problems with niggly injuries. He has found it quite difficult to have a sustained period free from injury. Last season he moved clubs again with a big money move to Newcastle United. This saw the prospect of him teaming up again with Alan Shearer. Owen however has played only a handful of games for his new club due to his fitness levels.

It seems that Owen is now on his way back, he recently started Englands latest friendly match against Hungary and looked quite hungry. I feel that Michael is way past his best, I think that due to the fact that he is not getting any younger and all of the injuries he has sustained, that he has without doubt lost some of his electric pace. He is however and should remain for a number of years to come a potent and top striker but whether he is still world class remains to be seen.

Michael Owen has never in my opinion let England down. He always seems to pop up with a goal and has certainly been one the nations hero's over the last eight years. I would prefer to see Michael come off the bench for say the last thirty-five minutes of matches instead of starting the games. I think England should have lanky Peter Crouch with another pacy striker such as Theo Walcott to really rough up and bruise the opposition. Michael could then come on when they are starting to become a bit weary.

I do not think Michael Owen has lost any of his passion or desire to play for club or country. In fact I think the opposite is true. He will be itching to get back to somewhere near his best and will be very determined to help his country to win the World Cup.

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FIFA World Cup A History 1962 to 2002

1962 Hosts for the 1962 edition were Chile despite recently having suffered a devastating earthquake. Brazil were favorites to retain the trophy but Chile thought they had a world-beating plan of action. Before they played Italy they ate spaghetti and won. Before they played Switzerland they ate Swiss cheese and won. Before they played Russia they drank vodka and won (must have been an interesting game). So when they came up against Brazil in the semi finals, what did they do? Did they eat Brazil nuts? No, they drank coffee and promptly lost 4-2. Brazil once again claimed the trophy by beating Czechoslovakia 3-1 in the final.

Statistics Host Country: Chile

Countries: Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Czechoslovakia, England, Hungary, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, Uruguay, USSR, West Germany, Yugoslavia

Final: Brazil 3, Czechoslovakia 1

Top goal scorer: Drazen Jerkovic, Yugoslavia (5)

1966 In 1966 the World Cup came back to where the mode game of football began in 1863, England and the trophy was destined to stay there for four years. It might have stayed there permanently because when it was put on show at the Westminster Central Hall in London four months before the touament was to start it was stolen. Seven days of acute embarrassment ensued while authorities tried to find the missing cup without any result. Eventually a black and white dog called "Pickles" found it undeeath a hedge wrapped in newspaper whilst doing what dogs do under hedges. Pickles shot to stardom and the English Football Association had a replica of the trophy made - "just in case". The replica can still be seen at the English National Football Museum.

The 1966 World Cup was memorable for several reasons. It was the first World Cup to have a mascot - "World Cup Willie", a lion dressed in the English strip. It was a World Cup marred by vicious tactics on the field and by poor refereeing that saw Brazil literally kicked off the pitch in the first round. The final against West Germany was also memorable due to one of the most controversial goals in Cup history. In extra time Geoff Hurst of England launched a shot that hit the underside of the goal crossbar and bounced down. The referee ruled that it had landed behind the goal-line and was therefore a goal. The West Germans protested that it did not go behind the line but the linesman upheld the referee and the goal stood. Hurst put the matter beyond doubt in the last minute by scoring.

Statistics Host Country: England

Countries: Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, England, France, Hungary, Italy, Mexico, North Korea, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Uruguay, USSR, West Germany

Final: England 4, West Germany 2 (after extra time)

Top goal scorer: Eusebio, Portugal (9)

1970 Mexico 1970 was Brazil's and Pele's World Cup. After 1966 when Brazil were knocked out in the first round, Pele had vowed never to play in the World Cup again. Fortunately he was persuaded to make a final appearance in 1970. Hopes were high in England for a repeat of the 1966 success but matters were not helped when the England captain was jailed for four days on manufactured charges of stealing a bracelet in Guadalajara a couple of weeks before the opening game. Those, the humid playing conditions and Gerd Muller in devastating form, were enough to see West Germany take their revenge in the quarter final for the defeat in the previous competition's final. But Brazil seemed unstoppable thanks to their magnificent attackers but their defense was questionable. Could the Italian front line tu this to their advantage? At half time it seemed that they could with the score line at 1-1 and the Brazilians obviously demoralized. But after half time Pele took charge laying on passes that led to two Brazilian goals and finding the net himself. Brazil had won the World Cup for the third time and therefore was allowed to keep the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently. Some year later it was stolen and never recovered. It is presumed it was melted down.

Statistics Host Country: Mexico

Countries: Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, El Salvador, England, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, Romania, Sweden, Uruguay, USSR, West Germany

Final: Brazil 4, Italy 1 (after extra time)

Top goal scorer: Gerd Muller, West Germany (10)

1974 In 1974, West Germany played hosts for the competition for the new trophy, the FIFA World Cup. West Germany had a tremendously strong side but then so did Holland with its brand of "total football" and Poland. Holland beat Brazil 2-0 to face West Germany in the final in Berlin but the German ultra efficient football machine held out against the inspirational Dutch to grab a late winner.

Statistics Host Country: West Germany

Countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, East Germany, Haiti, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Scotland, Sweden, Uruguay, West Germany, Yugoslavia, Zaire

Final: West Germany 2, Netherlands 1

Top goal scorer: Grzegorz Lato, Poland (7)

1978 1978 saw the FIFA World Cup being held in Argentina and it was one of the most controversial with very strange refereeing and organizational decisions seeming to favour the home country. In a second-round match Argentina needed to score at least four goals against Peru. It scored six and Peru were heavily criticized for giving the game away. In the final Argentina seemed to have an extra man in referee Sergio Gonella. His decisions were so blatantly pro Argentina that there were calls (particularly by the Dutch) for the match to be re-played in a neutral country - calls that fell on deaf ears.

Statistics Host Country: Argentina

Countries: Austria, Argentina, Brazil, France, Hungary, Iran, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Scotland, Spain, Sweden, Tunisia, West Germany

Final: Argentina 3, Netherlands 1 (after extra time)

Top goal scorer: Mario Kempes, Argentina (6)

1982 An expanded World Cup was launched in 1982 in Spain. Eight more teams participated bringing the total to 24. The idea was to allow the lesser footballing countries to enter the touament. The idea was vindicated by impressive displays by Algeria and Cameroon. Italy proved to be unstoppable that year and defeated the strong West German side 3-1 in the final even after Antonio Cabrini of Italy became the first player to miss a penalty in a World Cup final.

Statistics Host Country: Spain

Countries: Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Czechoslovakia, El Salvador, England, France, Honduras, Hungary, Italy, Kuwait, New Zealand, Northe Ireland, Peru, Poland, Scotland, Spain, USSR, West Germany, Yugoslavia

Final: Italy 3, West Germany 1

Top goal scorer: Paolo Rossi, Italy (6)

1986 Colombia had been chosen to host the 1986 World Cup but was unable to due to economic considerations so the venue was switched to Mexico despite strong efforts by Holland and the United States to have the competition on home soil. Brazil, the favorites were knocked out in the quarter finals by France on penalties. Another quarter final saw Argentina's Diego Maradona famous "hand of God" goal against England. Several billion TV viewers saw him use his hand to punch the ball into the back of the English goal but the referee did not. It was a blatant cheat that still rankles with English fans today as it saw their team go home. In the final against West Germany he showed that he didn't need to cheat to win as he brilliantly led his country to a hard fought win by 3 goals to 2.

Statistics Host Country: Mexico

Countries: Algeria, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, England, France, Hungary, Iraq, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Northe Ireland, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Scotland, South Korea, Spain, Uruguay, USSR, West Germany

Final: Argentina 3, Germany 2

Top goal scorer: Gary Lineker, England (6)

1990 The 14th World Cup was without doubt the most boring so far. Every team was so scared of losing that games became low-scoring brutal chess matches. Both semi finals went into extra time and then went on to be decided by penalty kicks. The final contested by West Germany appearing in its last World cup before unification and Argentina. In a dour and dirty struggle with two sendings off. West Germany won 1-0 by way of a penalty.

Statistics Host Country: Italy

Countries: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Cameroon, Colombia, Costa Rica, Czechoslovakia, Egypt, England, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, Scotland, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay, United States, USSR, West Germany, Yugoslavia

Final: West Germany 1, Argentina 0

Top goal scorer: Salvatore "Toto" Schillaci, Italy (6)

1994 FIFA saw the United States as an untapped market as far as football (or soccer as the Americans call it) was conceed and so decided to award the 1994 touament to them. Italy were on song with their play-maker Roberto Baggio playing some sublime football. Argentina were hopeful that a newly re-called Maradona could steer them to success but the hope evaporated when he proved positive for a banned substance and was sent home in disgrace. The U.S. on home ground had a better than expected touament finally going out to Brazil. Earlier they had beaten Colombia thanks to an own goal by Colombian Andres Escobar who was shot dead when he arrived back home. The final between Brazil and Italy was an absorbing game of Brazil's irresistible attacking force meeting Italy's immovable defensive force. Predictably the match ended 0-0 after extra time so it went to the penalties and sudden death. Roberto Baggio of Italy sent his kick high over the cross-bar and Brazil were the winners.

Statistics Host Country: United States

Countries: Argentina, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Colombia, Germany, Greece, South Korea, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, USA, Sweden, Switzerland

Final: Brazil 1, Italy 0 (3-2 on penalty kicks)

Top goal scorer (Joint): Oleg Salenko, Russia and Hristo Stoitchkov, Bulgaria (6) 1998 France, played host to an expanded World Cup with the number of participants brought up to 32. Nobody thought that France had a chance of winning and everyone was very surprised when the made it to the final. Amazement took the place of surprise when the managed to destroy Brazil 3-0 in the final. To this day nobody who isn't French can explain how they did it. Serious hooliganism reared its ugly head during the early stages of the touament when English fans rampaged through Marseille and German fans attacked a police officer with an iron bar and left him permanently brain damaged.

Statistics

Host Country: France

Countries: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Paraguay, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Tunisia, United States, Yugoslavia

Final: France 3, Brazil 0

Top goal scorer: Davor Suker, Croatia (6)

2002 For the first time the World Cup had co-hosts in Japan and South Korea. It was also the first to be held on the continent of Asia. Fears of major rioting due to hooligans proved unfounded due to the superb preparations by the co-hosts and the whole touament had a party atmosphere. It was also a touament of upsets. In 1998 the United States had finished last but in 2002 they sailed into the quarter finals before being knocked out by Germany. France, the holders were eliminated in the first round without scoring a single goal and Italy left the touament early after some poor refereeing. In the end it was Brazil and Germany who contested the final with Brazil winning by two goals.

Statistics

Host Countries: Japan, South Korea

Countries: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Cameroon, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Ecuador, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Tunisia, Turkey, United States, Uruguay

Final: Brazil 2, Germany 0

Top goal scorer: Ronaldo, Brazil (8)

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Football Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell