The Redemption of Big Ben

The Redemption of Big Ben

In my first class at Cornerstone University, Foundations of Inquiry, we learned that the Christian worldview can be summarized in three easy steps: Creation. Fall. Redemption. All things were created; all things are fallen; all things will be (or are being) redeemed.

For proof, look no further than Ben Wallace.

When Ben was traded to the Detroit Pistons before the 2000 season for oft-injured star Grant Hill, he was a nobody. He was an undrafted vagabond who had played a few season with the Washington Bullets (remember them?) and one half-decent season in Orlando, averaging just 5 points and 8 rebounds per game. He was an offensive liability (some things never change), shooting less than 40% from the free-throw line. He was a John Doe in the NBA, an invisible man with no story, no legacy, no fame.

Joe Dumars took a chance on Ben Wallace in 2000; he saw something in the undersized center – limitless energy, hustle, raw emotion. He saw unparalleled work ethic and potential that could be molded into a defensive superstar. Or, maybe he was just dumping Grant Hill’s humungous contrast to whoever was stupid enough to take it. Either way.

In his first season in Detroit, Ben averaged 13 boards and 2 blocks a game. He started all 80 games he played. He grew corn-rolls. He and Jerry Stackhouse (insert Ben and Jerry’s joke here) led the Pistons out of the wretched ‘teal jersey’ days and into the playoff picture. The next season, Ben led the Pistons to the playoffs, led the NBA in both rebounds and blocks, and won his first of four defensive MVP awards.

Over the next five seasons in Detroit, Big Ben Wallace the mega-star was created. “Fear the Fro” was the Pistons new mantra. Ben cemented a legacy as one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history, and pound-for-pound, the best defensive force, ever. Ben could completely shut down opposing centers who outweighed him by 100 pounds.

Ben Wallace was a man possessed, a man who made four All-Star games despite having a career scoring average of 6 PPG and a historically horrific free-throw percentage of just about 41%. (In contrast, most NBA centers shoot anywhere from 70% to 80% from the line.)

The Pistons, under Rick Carlisle and Larry Brown, became one of the best defensive teams of the modern era. They held opponents under 70 points an unprecedented five games in a row in 2003. They made the Eastern Conference Finals six times, winning one NBA title in 2004 and being seconds away from winning another one in 2005, and they did it all by playing defense. Chauncey was the brain, Rip was the legs, Rasheed was the mouth, and Tayshaun was the long arms, but Ben Wallace … Ben was the heart and soul of those Pistons teams.

He was the heart and soul of Deeeeetroit Basketball, the icon of both a city and a team, and one of the most recognizable figures in the NBA back in 2004.

And then the Fall happened …

You know the story. A few months ago, I wrote all about it. Ben Wallace fled Detroit, left the town that created him, betrayed the ones who made him a legend, etc. He signed with the Bulls, and suddenly he was terrible, he was pathetic, yada yada yada … Then he went to Cleveland, and was even more horribly pathetic, and then he was traded to Phoenix who didn’t want him, and he reached the lowest of lows, and all the sins of men sat as blood stains on his hands. (That’s a Zach Vinson lyric btw). He was a disgrace, a loser, a Judas.

Just like every one of us. A fallen man. An imperfect citizen of the realm of humanity.

So like I said, Ben Wallace fell. He succumbed to greed and he believed his own hype. Individually he became a monster, and on the court he became a disaster. It was a two-way fall, to be sure. He was a lousy basketball player, a lousy human being, and an afterthought for Pistons fans who had moved on. We still had one other Wallace left to cheer for, and that one could actually catch a pass from ten feet away.

Well, now Rasheed is gone too, and so is the Pistons “dynasty.” Chauncey’s gone, Rip is faking an injury and ready to be traded, and Tayshaun is apparently going to miss most of the 2009 season with a ruptured disc in his back. Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva, and Rodney Stuckey is the core of our team looking toward the future, and the future is bleak. To be frank, the Pistons are lucky to be 3-4 right now and have a microscopic chance of even making the playoffs this year. A top five draft pick in the 2010 NBA draft is more likely than another trip to the ECFs.

But there’s one silver lining to the Pistons 2009 season that no one could have expected.

Ben Wallace.

Averaging 9.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks through the first seven games, Ben appears to have rejuvenated his career (somewhat) just by breathing Michigan air again. He’s playing almost 30 minutes a game, hustling on defense and keeping plays alive – which is what the Pistons so desperately need, and even shooting 50% from the stripe. Is he back to his 2004 self again? No way. Is he going to beat out Dwight Howard for his fifth Defensive MVP this year? Not a chance.

But has he experienced just a little bit of the redemption that permeates all things?

Absolutely.

It’s like the end of a really good movie. Things started out great, then they started to slip away, and then they hit rock bottom. But then redemption creeps in, slowly and sometimes painfully, and the empowering music plays and the character starts to right the wrongs of their past. Redemption is one of the most powerful forces in all the world, and seeing that emancipation in the career of one of the Pistons’ all-time greats is a powerful, wonderful experience. It really is. I know, I wrote just a few months ago that I wanted to break Ben Wallace’s fingers or stab him with my car keys, but that was a rough time for all of us. This redemption came, as it usually does, quite unexpectedly.

Watching the first game of the season, my brother and I vowed not to cheer for Ben Wallace or even acknowledge his presence on the court until he strings together some 10-rebound games, or swats a few shots into the stands, or personally shows up at my house and apologizes for bolting to Chicago. Well, you can’t deny the hustle he’s brought to the court in the first two weeks of the season. You can’t hold a grudge forever. Maybe by forgiving and forgetting, myself and Pistons fans everywhere can experience the beautiful redemption that Ben is experiencing.

Yeah, I know Ben isn’t a long-term solution, and I know he’s not going to be enough to lead us past the Cavs in the Central Division. This isn’t an article about winning and losing games. It’s about a guy’s life, and a fan’s betrayal, and the reconnection of two kindred spirits. This is bigger than basketball.

The fourth step of the Christian story, sometimes excluded from the Creation-Fall-Redemption narrative, is called Consummation. (Also called heaven.) The full redemption of all things, the world that way it should be.

And one day, several years from now, when Big Ben’s #3 jersey is lifted ceremoniously into the rafters of the Palace of Auburn Hills, a heavenly light will shine down upon us, and the angels will smile and play their harps, and the Big Ben gong will sound once again.

///

Oh... and here are the week ten picks, a week late.

Chicago @ San Francisco

Singletary avenges his old team. San Fran wins on the road.

(Correct)

Atlanta @ Carolina

This would be a huge upset for Carolina, but I don’t see it. To beat Atlanta you have to be able to pass deep on them and Jake Delhomme is inept and inaccurate. Plus DeAngelo Williams is nicked up and the offense really revolves around him. Defensively the Panthers don’t have an answer to Michael Turner or the Falcons’ passing game – it’s pick your poison, and either way, Atlanta’s winning this game.

(Incorrect ... apparently Matt Ryan is no longer any good)

New Orleans @ St. Louis

Could it be any easier for the 8-0 Saints to roll to 9-0? Actually, maybe. This is a road game. St. Louis is coming off a bye and before that, a win. Steven Jackson could run amuck against a Saints run D that hasn’t really been tested this season, except when it was pummeled by Miami’s Wildcat. Rams’ coach Steve Spagnuolo, a defensive mastermind, has had two weeks to prepare for Drew Brees and the Saints potent offense. But you know what? Honestly, Spagnuolo could have two years to prepare for this game, and it wouldn’t matter. The Rams simply lack the talent on defense to stop New Orleans. Plain and simple. It’s all about Drew Brees – the Saints may actually need him to win this game, and he’ll be up to the task. Saints by a closer score than anyone expects, 21-17. If you’re betting the spread, I’d take the Rams.

(Correct ... I called Saints by 4, they won by 5. Ding ding ding.)

Tampa Bay @ Miami

No way the Buccaneers win two games in a row. Miami has been competing with the big boys – almost beating New England and New Orleans in recent weeks – and should have no trouble manhandling a semi-pro team like Tampa Bay. This could be a big confidence-building game for Chad Henne, because Miami won’t have to resort to the Wildcat to beat up the Bucs. Fins win.

(Correct ... barely)

Detroit @ Minnesota

Week two of the season, Detroit could have and should have beat the Vikings. The held Adrian Peterson to a meager game by his standards, they sacked Brett a few times and they led 10-0 early. Of course they tanked in that game and have progressively gotten worse every week since. Matt Stafford is a worse quarterback today than he was eight weeks ago. Favre, meanwhile, is playing like a Pro Bowler at the age of 39. His receivers are making big plays down the field, particularly Sidney Rice, who the Lions will have no answer for. Rushing four down lineman gives the Lions no chance to pressure Favre in this game, and you can’t give Favre time to create a play. He can do it better than anyone. Yet, if Gunther sends gaga blitz packages, Minnesota is good enough to pick up the extra blitzer and Favre will find the hole in the coverage. They’ll kill you with the screen passes too, and oh yeah, I almost forgot about Adrian Peterson. Funny how that keeps happening. When the Lions have the ball, there’s a chance that Calvin might finally get going or Kevin Smith can run on the Vikings like he has in the past, but it won’t be enough. Especially with the horrible play recently of Stafford, who will be pressured by Jared Allen all day long. Vikings cruise in a laugher, 32-16.

(Correct ... I picked Vikes by 16, they won by 17 ... I am really good at picking Lions games)

Jacksonville @ New York Jets

Both of these teams are 4-4 and quite mediocre. Ironically, these were my two pre-season picks for the AFC Wildcard berths. So I have been subconsciously rooting for them both to make the playoffs all season. The good news is one of them gets a win on Sunday; the bad news is one of them falls out of contention altogether. I think MJD could have a field day against the Jenkins-less front 7 of the Jets, but Revis should shut down MSW and force Garrard to look elsewhere. Thomas Jones should likewise have a big day, and Sanchez should be able to settle into a rhythm against a mostly non-threatening Jags pass rush. I believe the Jets come out on top in this one, but it could be close if Sanchez makes too many dumb mistakes. I’ll say Jets 20-16.

(Wrong ... Jags won, thanks in part to MJD taking a knee at the 1 ... the little rascal)

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh

If Pittsburgh wins, that’s six straight for them and the AFC North is in their grasp. If Cincy wins, they will be partying like mad after sweeping both the Ravens and Steelers. The Bengals next three games after this are: Raiders, Browns, Lions. Wow. It will be tough for them not to get caught up thinking “We can lose to Pittsburgh and still cruise to 9-3.” The reality is both of these teams WILL be in the playoffs this year, and this probably won’t be the last time they play each other. As for this game, Pittsburgh wins at Heinz Field and takes back the division that is rightfully theirs. Steelers 20-14.

(Wrong ... Cincinnati wins my respect)

Buffalo @ Tennessee

After starting 0-6, the Titans are about to be 3-6. Good for them. This game is not going to be much fun to watch though. Titans win 21-14.

(Correct ... except it was pretty fun to watch, as Chris Johnson continues his sparkling Barry Sanders impression and the Titans owner did a nice impression of an 86-year old jackass)

Denver @ Washington

The Broncos care; the Redskins don’t. That’s the difference in this game, because the disparity in talent isn’t as great as people think. Denver might actually steamroll them by 30 just to prove a point. I can’t see how the Redskins offense gains more than 100 yards in this game, with Portis doubtful and with Campbell playing so horrifically, plus Cooley’s out too. I’ll say the Broncos win by at least two touchdowns.

(Way wrong ... I hate you Denver)

Kansas City @ Oakland

Something’s gotta give – KC’s brutal pass D against JaMarcus’s inaccurate arm. It just seems like KC should win this game so both teams are 2-7, rather than the Raiders having 3 wins. But it’s tough to pass on Oakland in Oakland when the matchup is this easy. Remember Oakland beat Philly in Oakland a month ago. So I don’t know. It could go either way. Both teams are so sloppy and ugly, I really have no idea. I’m gonna pick the Raiders I guess. By six.

(Wrong ... that's the last time I ever pick Oakland)

Seattle @ Arizona

For the Cards, if they win this game they control the division and can start thinking about the playoffs. If they lose, they have to keep looking over their shoulder. For Seattle, this is do-or-die. Both teams have a lot to play for; NFC West interdivision battles are usually pretty heated. I’m actually excited about this game. And against the Seahawks awful secondary, I think Warner and Fitzgerald have a second consecutive field day. Arizona wins 34-24.

(Very correct)

Dallas @ Green Bay

Can the Pack get back on track at Lambeau? Or will the Cowboys win their fifth in a row? Interesting fact for you: since Miles Austin entered the Cowboys starting line-up, Dallas is undefeated, and Austin is on a psychotic 16-game pace for over 2,000 yards and 20+ TDs. That’s pretty impressive. He faces a Packers secondary with some big names (Harris, Woodson) who have not really lived up to their reputations this season. This looks like one of those games where I feel like I should pick Green Bay, but then Dallas wins. I like Green Bay more, and I want them to win, but I have to say I think Dallas is the better team right now. Cowboys by five.

(Wrong ... should have gone with my gut)

Philadelphia @ San Diego

Last time Philly traveled to the west coast, they lost to Oakland. Now they face a much, much more difficult test, a Chargers team that is surging and catch up with Denver. Philly is very solid on both sides of the ball, but I just don’t want to pick against the Chargers right now. Especially at home. Bolts by a touchdown.

(Correct)

New England @ Indianapolis

This is the best regular season game of the whole year. I can’t wait. I’ll be watching this one live at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indiana, wearing my Barry Sanders jersey and rooting on the Patriots. I can’t wait. It’s going to be awesome. Two Hall of Fame quarterbacks in the late prime of their careers. Two brilliant offenses and mediocre defenses. Sunday Night football. The undefeated Colts against the red-hot Patriots. The two best teams of the decade. Man, it’s going to be great. Regardless of who wins and who loses, both teams are going to the playoffs, no question. But it does matter, for home-field advantage reasons and for pride. Brady and Manning hate losing to each other. If the Colts win, 16-0 is now in the picture. If the Pats win, no one can say that they’re not the best team in the NFL. As for my pick, well, it really doesn’t matter, because I’ve picked the Sunday Night game wrong five or six weeks in a row. I know that Manning is basically unbeatable on night games, but how many of those have been against Brady? I’ll pick the Colts solely for home-field reasons, but I wouldn’t bet any money on it.

(Amazing game to watch, amazing crowd to be in, amazing finish ... hey I even got the pick right, thanks to Bill Belichick and his super-stupid gamble)

Baltimore @ Cleveland

This might be the silliest Monday Night Football game of my life. The Browns? Seriously, THE BROWNS??? ESPN can only hype up the “Cleveland used to be Baltimore” angle for so long. This is going to be so ugly. Cleveland is pitiful, terrible, and disgraceful. Ravens by 20.

(Dead on)

The week 10 picks look pretty silly in retrospect. Oh well. Go Lions.

It's Fixed!

Week 11 Picks:

Jets @ Patriots

This is the lock of the week, because of the way New England lost last week. Not only will the Pats win this game, but it will be brutal, they'll run up the score, and the Jets will want to run home crying. How stupid do you think Rex Ryan feels for all his ‘We’re not scared of them’ preseason trash talking? The Jets are 1-5 in their last six games and really not a good team at all, especially with Kris Jenkins gone for the year. Revis might be able to slow down Moss, but no way Brady lets them stay in the game; there will be no second-guessing Belichick after this game. Pats by 24.

Browns @ Lions

As redundant and unwatchable as the Lions-Rams game was a few weeks ago, this might be even worse. Seriously. The Browns offense has scored five touchdowns in its last fifteen games. With the way in which Detroit gives up yards, something has got to give. We’re either looking at a “breakout” game for Brady Quinn, or a “statement” game for the Lions defense. Either way, it will be overblown and a little ridiculous. No matter the outcome, one certainty is that Jamal Lewis scores his first rushing TD of the season in this game, and another is that Calvin Johnson has his best game of the season, which won’t take much. This could actually be fun to watch, because both teams are so viciously inept and untalented that anything is possible. Including the Lions second victory of the season. The boys in blue by 6.

Seahawks @ Vikings

The Seahawks are a pretty solid team with two glaring flaws: they have a horrible secondary, and an even worse offensive line. The Vikings are extremely well-balanced and they can beat you in so many ways that they should be able to simply outmatch Seattle on both sides of the ball and win this one easily. Seattle has no answer for Jared Allen and no way of stopping Brett Favre (and believe me, I want to stab myself with a handful of staples just for typing that), and of course, no way of stopping AP. Seattle’s one chance of winning is to abandon the running game early and chuck the ball 50 times. Minnesota’s secondary is not bad though, and I don’t see that working out well for Hasslebeck. Vikes by 20.

Steelers @ Chiefs

Kansas City is one of those teams that should never be completely counted out when they’re at home. That being said, the Dwayne Bowe suspension is killer for them and it’s never fun to play Pittsburgh when they are in need of a win. Them Stellers are going to be without their defensive superstar once again, but Polamalu’s absence doesn’t matter in this game. KC covers the spread, but Pittsburgh wins by a touchdown.

49ers @ Packers

Green Bay is coming off a huge home win against Dallas to keep them in the playoff picture, and now stays at home for a visit from the mediocre 49ers. But San Fran has had 9 days to prepare for this game and Singletary is a smart coach. I don’t know what else to say. I’m pretty sure there are the two teams I’ve picked incorrectly the most this year. I’ll just flip a coin and say … Green Bay. By three.

Colts @ Ravens

I watched enough of the Browns-Ravens snoozefest to confirm an assertion I’ve held for a long time now: Joe Flacco just isn’t very good. Yeah, the Colts secondary is decimated and just got punished by Moss and Welker, but Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton are not Moss and Welker. Baltimore’s offense is, dare I say, just a little overrated. Plus, let’s not forget that the Colts are the best team in the NFL, and led by the best player in the NFL. I’ll take Indy by 17.

Redskins @ Cowboys

I was morbidly shocked to discover that Washington had beaten Denver last week, but maybe I shouldn’t have been. After all, my preseason analysis was that Washington was good, and Denver was not. Ladell Betts has always been a capable back and Campbell is playing better now that Jim Zorn isn’t calling the plays. They could have success against Dallas, who by the way, isn’t all that good on defense, and is prone to random lapses in meaningful games, such as this one. I’m going to continue the wave of Redskins-shock and pick Washington, by 6.

Bills @ Jaguars

Is it just me, or have the Jags not played a difficult opponent in the past five or six weeks? They shouldn’t have any trouble beating the Bills, and don’t look now, but they’ll be 6-4 if they do. Jacksonville by 10.

Falcons @ Giants

New York is coming off a bye and needs to win this game. Fortunately for them, Matt Ryan has apparently forgotten how to play quarterback. Giants by 10.

Saints @ Buccaneers

I’m gonna go out on a limb and take the Saints.

Cardinals @ Rams

Another limb … I’ll take Arizona…

Bengals @ Oakland

Once more … Cincinnati by 24…

Chargers @ Broncos

When these teams matched up week six and Denver came away victorious, Denver was 6-0 and San Diego was 2-3. It was all over. But since that game, Denver has lost three straight, while the Bolts have won four straight, making both teams 6-3 and making this the single most important AFC West game in the history of the 2009 season. Here's my prediction: San Diego loses, and still manages to win the division. That's kind of their style. Broncos by six.

Eagles @ Bears

Isn’t it funny how the Bears defense has become a complete sieve? McNabb and Co. should have very little trouble torching them through the air and forcing Jay “The Turnover” Cutler to launch the ball into heavy coverage. But that’s what Jay wants to do anyway, so everyone wins. Speaking of everyone wins, this Bears season has been a complete joy to watch for the entire nation. Everyone hates Cutler and cheers against him. Cutler has played horrifically, much to the delight of everyone, and seems to degeneratively play worse with each interception. Has there ever been a more unanimously hated player who isn’t actually any good, but all the ‘experts’ pretend like he is good so that makes rooting against him all the more enjoyable? I think not, except for maybe Vince Carter. Eagles win by 15 and stay in the hunt.

Titans @ Texans

Is there a more embarrassed individual over the past week in sports than 86-year old owner of the Titans Bud Adams, who gave the middle-finger salute to Bills fans last week? And not just once, but about fifteen times. Team owners are supposed to stay invisible as best they can, or only make appearances for beneficial reasons or to accept championship trophies. To pull this crude, juvenile act (which was completely unwarranted) is just flat-out embarrassing and sad, especially for an 86-year old man. I’m glad he got fined a quarter-million dollars, and I hope that money is put to good use. But as far as the MNF game, I’m thinking the Titans winning streak comes to an end and that Houston (who had two weeks to prepare for this game, which is much more significant for them than it is for Tennessee) wins by 14 and stays in the Wildcard discussion.

Last week: 8-7

This week, so far: 0-1

i cant figure out why, but it is no longer possible to paste anything into this space. which basically makes this website and this blog worthless. because nobody actually types the whole thing in here, do they? i'm really annoyed. i'm not allowed to use the blogger.website at work so i can't write the picks or anything else there. blah!

picks ...

my pick for thursday night football, Dolphins @ Panthers:

i'm taking the panthers. i think ronnie's injury really kills the dolphins offense and forces chad henne to actually play quarterback and throw to very sub-par receivers. i don't think ricky runs the 'cat as well as ronnie. i'll take the panthers, who, if they win, will be back in the playoff picture after an 0-3 start.

the rest of the picks to follow.

last week: 8-7
overall: 91:49

week 10 picks

i wrote up the picks in Word and for some crazy reason it won't let me copy/paste. but the picks must be up before tonights bears-49ers game to be legit.

so, briefly:
bears
falcons
saints
dolphins
vikings
jets
steelers
titans
broncos
raiders
cardinals
cowboys
chargers
colts
ravens

also i wrote a bit about Ben Wallace which i think is pretty decent, and i'll post that once the paste works again.

*Note: Paste is still broken 11-14. this website apparently is retarted.

last week: 8-5
overall: 83-42

Thoughts on the Lions' Fat-Faced Franchise QB, plus Week Nine Picks

An Honest Question About Matthew Stafford

The other day, while watching Monday Night Football at Boston’s Pizzeria, a guy by the name of Jon Timmer asked the question, “How good is Matthew Stafford… like where does he rank from 1-32?” My immediate answer, “Probably around 38 or 40.” A guy by the name of Crazy Keith agreed with me. I began to think of all the backup QBs in the league that are more appealing starting options than Stafford, and there were a lot of them. This honest question that Timmer posed is intriguing, especially considering that the Lions drafted Matt Stafford with the 1st overall pick and are paying him the kind of money I can’t even dream about.

There are three ways to look at Timmer’s question:

Rank every quarterback in the league, with their current contracts.

Rank every quarterback if signed to a hypothetical 1-year, $5 million dollar deal, to win the 2010 Super Bowl.

Rank every quarterback, signed to a 6-year, $50 million dollar deal, to be your franchise QB.

With each question the list changes significantly. Let’s start with the first one. Of all the quarterbacks in the NFL, current contracts included, where would I rank Matthew Stafford?

Dead last. That’s right, last. Worst. Assuming every team has 3 QBs on the roster, that’s 96th out of 96. There are some terrible QBs out there, and some terribly overpaid QBs, but there are only two guys who fit into both categories: Matt Stafford, and JaMarcus Russell. Unlike Russell, Stafford actually has a snowball’s chance in hell of one day being a legitimate quarterback. But the reason I’d rather have Russell and his current deal is that 2 of the 6 years on his deal are already done; I’d rather be stuck with Russell for 4 years and about $42 million than Stafford for 6 years and $72 million. No question.

In fact, of all the players in the entire NFL, there is no one I would want LESS than Matt Stafford, current contracts included. The only close choices are Russell, Albert Haynesworth ($100+ over the next seven years) or Terrell Suggs (6 years, $63 million) or perhaps Eli Manning’s $107 million contract. All of these players are preposterously overpaid. But the difference between them and Stafford? They can all actually help you win. Stafford can help you lose.

Which leads to the next question: if I could sign any quarterback to a 1-year contract for 2010 and pay them all a constant salary, who would it be, and where would Stafford rank?

I’ve tackled this conundrum before, but usually at the top of the list, debating the merits of Pro Bowl caliber quarterbacks. Not unless you’re a Lions fan do you even need to think about the bottom of the list. But anyway…

Numbers 1-3

Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Drew Brees.
Or Brees, Brady, and Manning.
Or Brady, Manning, Brees.

In some order. That’s a debate to be resolved some other time – like the 2009 postseason. For now, it’s obvious that those are your top three, and I have no idea which order to rank them in.

4 - Ben Roethlisberger.

For the first five years of his career, all he did was win Super Bowls. Now he studies defenses; he has mastered the pump fake; he is unquestionably the best out-of-the-pocket QB in the NFL. And, he’s one of the best two-minute-drill QBs. He really is becoming the total package. The only thing he lacks is a likeable personality.

5 – Brett Favre.

He’s proved the doubters wrong this year, leading Minnesota to a 7-1 record and smoking Green Bay twice. Why is he the fifth best quarterback to sign to a one-year deal, even at the gray age of 40? Because he’s got more than 475 games of NFL experience; that’s almost a solid month of on-the-field game experience. Compare that to rising star Matt Ryan, who has less than 24 hours of on-field NFL experience.

6 – Kurt Warner

With Warner coming off a six-turnover game, the timing for this ranking isn’t very good. But that’s what you get with Kurt: some stinkbombs along with some 400 yard masterpieces. He showed last year that he knows how to lead and win in the playoffs, and that’s what I want if all I’m getting is a one-year deal. Plus, he’s a born-again Christian. That’s gotta count for something.

7 – Aaron Rodgers

If not for the Packers’ leaky offensive line, A-Rod would be having a much better season, and the Pack would be 5-2, at least. He’s wouldn’t get any better protection from the hypothetical 2010 Lions, but he remains a strong-armed, mobile and smart QB who would excel on a better offense.

Numbers 8 - 19

Carson Palmer, Matt Ryan, Phillip Rivers, Matt Schaub, Tony Romo, Joe Flacco, Donovan McNabb, Eli Manning, Matt Hasslebeck, Jay Cutler, Kyle Orton, David Garrard.

In some order, that’s twelve starting quarterbacks who are undoubtedly better than Matt Stafford, hands down, not even close, no question about it. There’s a time and a place to rank them more accurately, but this isn’t it.

20 – Kevin Kolb
The best back-up in the NFL, and maybe a top-10 QB when he gets his chance to shine someday.

21 - 23
Matt Cassel, Kerry Collins, Jake Delhomme.
All having bad seasons, but all had great seasons last year. I’d rather have a guy who sucks but has proven that he can play, than a guy who sucks and has no track record.

24 – Mark Sanchez.
Stafford’s fellow rookie QB has played some awful games as of late, but he hasn’t played down to the level of Mr. Stafford yet. His team is still gaining yards and he can still throw with some accuracy. Sanchez has 8 TDs and 10 picks; Stafford has 3 TDs and 7 picks. Stafford’s run the ball in twice, but Sanchez has run in three times. Plus Sanchez didn’t miss three games with a (fake) injury, all because he didn’t want to look stupid against Pittsburgh (like Stafford did).

25 – 26
Alex Smith, Shaun Hill.
I’m not sure what to make of the 49ers situation, but I know for sure that both of these guys are better right now than Matthew.

27 – Jim Sorgi.
I’ve never actually seen him play, but I’m just assuming …

28-37
Jon Kitna, Kellen Clemens, Matt Redman, Seneca Wallace, Chad Pennington, Sage Rosenfels, Kyle Boller, Chad Henne, Tyler Thigpen, Todd Collins.

Ten capable backup QBs who are all better QBs than Stafford if given the same offense to work with. For just a one-year deal, remember. And there’s one other guy …

38 – Charlie Batch.
Ouch.

39 – Trent Edwards
Now we get to the truly terrible guys. Uck…

40 – Jason Campbell.
Truly horrible. Truly better than Stafford.

41 - 43
Brady Quinn, David Carr, Matt Leinart.
I’m not convinced that all three of these guys are completely useless. For just one season. I think you win more games with any one of these guys than Matthew.

44 – Derek Anderson.
This is the most painful one yet. Anderson’s passer rating this season is 36.2, which is worse than if he were to throw the ball into the crowd on every single play. But he had a great season in 2007, and Stafford has never had one good NFL game. I’d rather have Anderson. I would, I’m telling you.

45 – Jeff Garcia.
He’s old and been out of the league a while, but I’m guessing he’d still do an okay job.

46 - 47
Colt McCoy, Sam Bradford.
Since this is for a hypothetical 2010 season, than yes, I would rather start one of these rookies fresh out of the gate than fat-faced Stafford. They were better last year in college and they’ll be better once they join the NFL.

48- Matthew Stafford.
Forty-eight. That might look like a horrible ranking, but hey, take heart Matthew: at least you rank above 20 or so other guys who play QB professionally, including: Marc Bulger, JaMarcus Russell, Byron Leftwich, Josh Johnson, Josh Freeman, Matt Moore, Kevin O’Donnell, Brooks Bollinger, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Bruce Gradkowski, Byron Leftwich, Daunte Culpepper, Brad Johnson, Brian Brohm, Drew Stanton, Rex Grossman, Michael Vick, Vince Young, and Joey Harrington.

We have a lot to be proud of Lions fans.

And now for the most pertinent question: which quarterback would you most want to build a franchise around, if financial obligations were not a factor? This is obviously Matt’s best chance, because of his youth and his supposed “upside.” I’ll try to rid Stafford’s nightmarish contract from my consciousness and judge fairly, forgetting about the $72 million dollars the Lions spent on the chubby kid who doesn’t know what the hell he’s doing…

1. Tom Brady
2. Drew Brees
3. Peyton Manning
I think the first two guys have more years left in the tank than Peyton, but no way you can go wrong with any of these three.

4. Ben Roethlisberger

5. Matt Ryan.
I really, really like this kid’s future. He’s a young Drew Brees.

6. Aaron Rodgers.
7. Joe Flacco.
8. Carson Palmer.
9. Tony Romo.
10. Phillip Rivers.
11. Kevin Kolb.

11. Mark Sanchez.
The kid they call ‘Sanchise’ is the definition of a franchise QB: he’s bubbling with energy, leadership, poise, moxie, likeability… all those intangibles that really truly matter. And Stafford has none of them. Literally, none.

12. Matt Schaub.
13. Eli Manning.
14. Jay Cutler.

15. Matt Hasslebeck
16. Donovan McNabb
Neither of these two have many years left in their careers, but I’d rather have two or three solid years than six crappy years.

17. Matt Cassel.
18. David Garrard.

19. Matt Stafford …

This is significantly better than I was expecting to rank him… but with his youth and the possibility of someday being good, he’s a more appealing option than someone’s who already proven how low their ceiling is. From what I’ve seen from Stafford so far, I think he’s the next JaMarcus or the NFL’s version of Darko. You have to wonder how SO many NFL scouts can be SO WRONG, and completely whiff on the #1 overall pick. But it’s happened before. More than once. It’s amazing those guys have jobs.

But anyway, the fact that Stafford ends up in my top 20 of QBs to build a team around both surprises and amazes me. Mind you, this is in a make-believe world where Stafford only makes $8 million a year instead of $12 million a year. Remember that in the real world, Stafford and his contract are the most deadly, team-killing combination in the NFL and the reason that the Lions won’t be climbing out of the NFC North basement for another decade, unless Stafford suddenly turns things around and becomes a Pro Bowler. What are the chances of that happening? Realistically, maybe 20%. Maybe less.

But still on the promise of that hope, I’m willing to rank Stafford above guys like Leinart, Quinn and Vince Young; above Trent Edwards and Jake Delhomme and even Brett Favre, who honestly might play six more years in the NFL; even ahead of Jason Campbell and both 49ers QBs and the enigma that is Jim Sorgi, all of whom are better than Stafford at present day.


So with all that being said, let’s get on with the Week Nine Picks.

Baltimore @ Cincinnati
It might not seem like it at first glance, but this just might be the most important game of the week. The winner keeps pace with Pittsburgh, and the loser falls behind in the playoff race. (That’s assuming Pittsburgh beats Denver on Monday night, which is a safe assumption). Both of these teams play excellent football on both sides and are well-coached. Baltimore is just a little bit better, but Cincy is at home, coming off a bye, and riding a wave of blow-out momentum. The Ravens, who handed Denver its first loss, are also on an emotional high. Expect this one to be well-fought and come down to the wire. I see game coming down to the last play, and Baltimore’s kicker - who missed the potential game-winning field goal against Minnesota a few weeks ago - goes from goat to hero. Baltimore 28-27.

Houston @ Indianapolis
The Texans are playing good as of late – three wins in a row, and completely shutting down the opposing running game – but they are no match for Indy. Nobody is. However, this does have the makings of a letdown game because the Colts might be caught thinking about New England next week. If Tony Dungy were still the coach, this would be a non-issue. Tough test for Jim Caldwell or whatever his name is. But the Colts still have Peyton Manning, so they should be fine. It’ll be raining fantasy points in this one. Indy 38-27.

Green Bay @ Tampa Bay
The classic battle of the Bays. This used to be a great rivalry when both teams played in the old NFC Central. Now it’s an utter mismatch. Both of these teams are extremely frustrated right now; the Packers just got beat by Brett Favre. For the second time this season. At Lambeau Field. Tampa, meanwhile, has the stench of being the only winless team now on their hands. Green Bay is just a little bit more pissed off, and a whole lot more talented, so they roll here – Packers by 15.

Arizona @ Chicago
The difference in this game is that Arizona can afford to lose this game, because the NFC West is awful, while Chicago can’t afford to lose in the competitive NFC North. Is that enough edge for the Bears to win? I’m a little nervous whenever Kurt Warner plays an outdoor game in the cold, but geez, doesn’t it seem like we’re long overdue for Fitzgerald to completely dominate a game and win singlehandedly? (Or maybe I just think that because I just traded for him in fantasy football?) This game completely baffles me. I don’t know anything about either of these teams. I’ll go with Arizona because they have the likeability factor. AZ by 6.

Kansas City @ Jacksonville
What a Stink Bowl. Jags by 4.

Here’s an interesting story: Chiefs fans started an online petition begging the general manager to extend Larry Johnson’s suspension and keep him off the team, indefinitely. Why? Because LJ is 75 yards from surpassing Priest Holmes as KC’s all-time leader rusher, and they vehemently don’t want that to happen. Says the petition: “(Johnson) has never represented anything close to the values that we have for our Chiefs and it would be another dagger to the fans that continue to support this proud franchise.”
My thoughts: You’ve got to give the fans what they want!! I can completely relate to this. When you have nothing to cheer for on the field and only the pride of your franchise, you can’t live with a blemish like Larry Johnson as your team’s all-time leading rusher. Priest Holmes is a player you can be proud of. Plus, it’s not like having LJ in the backfield is an improvement over Jamaal Charles, who actually has upside. LJ is terrible this year anyway! Please, Chiefs management, give the fans what they want! Do it for all of us suffering football fans! Keep Larry Johnson off the field! (Incidentally, I just put in a waiver request for Jamaal Charles.)

Miami @ New England
As pesky as the Dolphins are, one of the Cardinal Rules of the NFL is that you don’t bet against a great coach or QB who’s had a bye week to prepare for a sub-par secondary, especially one that’s starting two rookie CBs. The Patriots have a great coach AND a great QB, and a great dislike for the Dolphins, who destroyed them last year and then kept them out of the playoffs. Big game upcoming from Brady. New England by 17, or more if they decide to run up the score.

Washington @ Atlanta
Falcons win easily. Will this be the game that finally gets Jim Zorn fired? 28-7.

Carolina @ New Orleans
Now that the Saints have a huge target on their backs, every game becomes difficult, even the games against Jake Delhomme. Carolina played its most complete game last week and finally got Steve Smith involved in the offense. But come on. You think I’m picking against Drew Brees? Not a chance. Saints by 10.

Detroit @ Seattle
A late afternoon game on the west coast. I don’t think the Lions should even bother showing up. Seriously, they should just forfeit the game and stay in Detroit. This could be even uglier than the game at Lambeau a few weeks ago. I HATE the fact that I’m playing against Hasslebeck in fantasy football. That’s called being double-screwed. Seahawks by 50.

Tennessee @ San Francisco
Vince Young against Alex Smith!! Hide the women and children, this could get ugly!! San Fran wins this one against a truly terrible Tennessee team. Niners by nine.

San Diego @ New York Giants
Okay, so who the heck are we dealing with when it comes to the New York Giants? Super Bowl aspirant, or 8-8 disappointment. They’ve lost 3 games in a row, and three weeks ago they were widely considered the best team in the NFC. First Drew Brees completely owned them, then the Cardinals killed them in the second half, and the Eagles absolutely brutalized them last week. So what now? Are the Chargers catching them at the right time? Or are the Giants actually still good and just the victims of tough scheduling? The game’s in New York and I still don’t think much of the Chargers; the truth is I want San Diego to win because I would love it if Denver missed the playoffs, but I don’t care much for San Diego either. I might as well be realistic and pick the Giants. They are a much better team. NY 24, SD 10.

Dallas @ Philadelphia
Both of these teams are 5-2, which doesn’t even seem possible. Three weeks ago, when the Eagles lost to Oakland and Dallas was barely able to beat the Chiefs in overtime, we all thought the NFC East was a no-contest. Now, with the help of the Giants, these two are tied for the division lead. Which makes this game positively HUGE. I just love the way Philly is playing; the offense has so many weapons, so much speed, and Brian Westbrook should be back on the field, which makes their screen passing game deadly.

Dallas still has a lot of dysfunction right now. Did you see that blurb from Roy Williams, talking about Tony Romo and Miles Austin. “It’s not even funny. Not even close. I’m the #1 receiver, but things are just going number 2’s way. He gets the ball thrown correctly his way. I’m stretching and falling and doing everything. ” WHAT?? Are you freaking serious Roy?? HELLO, your team has won three games in a row. Your teammate, Miles Austin, has five TDs and 500 yards in the last three games, (the only three starts of his beautiful young career!), and he has been the best wide receiver in the ENTIRE NFL over that span. Now defenses have to pay attention to him on every play, and that opens up the field for you. Now your offense can actually throw the ball, as well as run. Now, your team is actually winning games. And you’re COMPLAINING??!? Unbelievable. What an unbelievable selfish thing to say. Is this Roy’s impression of Terrell Owens or what? Geez oh Pete.

On that note, I’m picking Philly. 28-17.

Pittsburgh @ Denver
I’m excited to see Denver lose its second straight game, especially on national TV, on a Monday night. I don’t know why, but I just loathe Denver this year. This will be the only time I cheer for the Steelers all year. Pittsburgh by 14.

Some awful teams are on byes this week: Bills, Browns, Rams, and Raiders. Also the Jets and Vikings.

Enjoy week nine everyone. I would say GO LIONS, but what’s the point this week. They have NO CHANCE against Seattle. None. And Seattle’s not even that good. Ugh.

NBA Power Rankings

NBA Power Rankings

I thought about writing up some basketball power rankings before the season started, but a lack of interest and time kept me from finishing the task. I tried to write a wonderfully comprehensive season preview for the Pistons, but was kept from finishing it by frustration and despair. I even thought about writing some Fantasy Basketball stuff during the slower moments at work, but found myself preferring to actually … work. Suffice it to say, I am losing interest in the NBA.

For whatever reason. Maybe it’s the cheating refs. Or the whiny players. Or the thug attitudes. Maybe it’s the LeBron-mania or the superstar adulation or the fact that half the so-called superstars aren’t even that good (i.e. Iverson, Carter, McGrady, Arenas). Perhaps it’s due to the decline of the Pistons or the rise of selfish basketball. I miss Jordan and Magic and the true superstars. I miss the teal jerseys and the days of Grant Hill. Heck, I even miss Tim Duncan and the age of the Big Fundamental. Nowadays, it’s all about which band of thugs can plead their case to the guys in the striped shirts most convincingly, and then wear a doo-rag and talk gibberish in the locker-room. I don’t mean to sound racist; it’s not about skin color at all. I’m as big an NFL fan as anybody, and the percent of black players in the NFL is just as high as in the NBA. But it’s a different kind of sport, and a different kind of athlete. The NBA has slowly transformed into a very ghetto, me-first game which appeals to a different kind of fan. Not me.

I still love the Pistons. I still live and die by their every win and loss. I still love players like Chauncey and Nash, and Kobe and Garnett, and all the guys who make the league a better league. But there are so many players, guys like Carmelo and Pierce and Wade and the list goes on and on, who play for themselves, who want to score more than they want to win, and they irritate the heck out of me. There is so much hype about LeBron’s every activity, and everything he touches gets christened with some stupid nickname about his kingliness. He’s not the King, or the Chosen One, or even an NBA Champion. He’s just a super talented kid who can’t even beat the Orlando Magic in the playoffs. The NBA is just so overloaded with baggage and legal issues, predictability and disingenuousness, and the influence of too many angry, violent rappers. There’s a lack of effort and heart. It seems the whole league is just going through the motions. Simply put, there is no more Michael Jordan.

That all being said, I still have hope for the NBA. A breed of selfish stars (Shaq, Iverson, Kidd) is on its way out, and a new breed of magnanimous youngsters (Paul, Howard, Durant, Rose) is climbing the ladder to greatness. The league is full of entertaining internationals like Yao, Dirk and Walter Herrmann, and pure hustle players who actually earn their paychecks. There are still a few coaches in the league who demand teamwork and effort, and keep the league from being dominated by the crybabies. (God Bless you, Rick Carlisle and Greg Poppovich!) A few teams are still committed to playing team-basketball, and one of those teams used to be the Detroit Pistons. Now, I don’t know what they’re committed to. Competing in the first half of games? Losing to crappy teams? Drafting in the top ten in the 2010 draft?

Sigh …

So we are now almost a week into the 2009-2010 season. A handful of teams stand elite, and a few others are the scum of the NBA. Here are my NBA Power Rankings:

1. Boston Celtics – 4-0
The best starting lineup in basketball has integrated Sheed pretty effectively; Rosco has 9 threes through four games. Rondo is also averaging almost 12 assists.

2. Los Angeles Lakers – 2-1
Kobe is playing like Kobe (31 ppg), Bynum is playing rejuvenated and healthy (20 and 8, 58% fg), allowing Gasol and Odom to play limited minutes. And Crazy Ron Artest is playing terrific defense. Things are looking good for the defending champs.

3. Orlando Magic – 3-0
The Magic are getting contributions from everybody and kicking some serious butt. Even JJ Reddick is looking like a bonafide NBA player. Dwight Howard is a man possessed. Orlando is proving that last year was no fluke. I’m still not sold on Vince Carter being an improvement from Turkoglu, but so far, so good.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers – 2-2
Despite losing their first two games, Cleveland still has LeBron James and shouldn’t be ranked outside of the top 5 as long as he’s healthy.

5. Denver Nuggets – 3-0
Picking up where they left off last year, the Nuggets are playing as a team, led by Billups and the hot-hand of Carmelo Anthony, who is leading the NBA in ppg.

6. Phoenix Suns -
Nash has a lot of assists.

7. dallas
They are pretty good …

8. utah
Pretty good too

9-30
On second though, I don’t really care….

Back to the NFL!

How about we talk about week 8! A lot of exciting action took place, some upsets and some classic battles. Favre vs. Rodgers! McNabb vs. Eli! We’ve got Brees-Ryan tonight!

I was only 6-6 on my Sunday picks, with Monday night still to come. Given my track record on night games, I’m expecting to be 6-7, my first sub .500 week since week two. But it’s okay. This was a weird week. Lot of upsets. Two winless teams picked up their first W (more on that later). The Panthers and Texans won their third in a row. Denver finally lost. The Jets lost their fourth out of the last five. (Remember when they started 3-0 and everyone had them in the Super Bowl??) Philly whooped the Giants. And of course, Brett Favre went into Lambeau and threw 4 TDs while giving everyone the middle finger.

Week Eight Recap.

Weird fact #1: Every team in the NFC West lost, except the St. Louis Rams.

Weird fact #2: A quarterback in the Cardinals-Panthers committed six turnovers, and it wasn’t Jake Delhomme.

Weird fact #3: Rams kicker Josh Brown and Colts running back Joseph Addai both threw TD passes; Peyton Manning did not.

Weird fact #4: Despite playing a horrific F-minus game at quarterback, Matt Stafford was continuously praised by the commentating team of John Lynch and Ron Pitts, who miraculously did not say one bad word about Stafford. Matt’s stats: 14/33, 42% completions, 168 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT, and two of the worst two-minute drills I’ve ever seen to conclude both halves. Also several INTs were dropped. This is the part where you say: “Yeah, but all those passes were dropped…” True, there were three or four catchable balls that were dropped. But this is the part where I remind you: “We were playing the RAMS FOR GODS SAKE, THE RAMS!!! The Colts put up 42 against them last week! Their best defender is Paris Lenin! How do you only score 10 points (2 of which came on a safety) against the RAMS!!???!?!?!?!?

Weird fact #5: Tampa Bay is the only remaining winless team. Not really a weird fact, but important as far as the NFL draft goes. Will they draft a QB, even though they took Josh Freeman at the end of the first round last year? Probably not. But they should. Maybe the Lions will draft Colt McCoy! Wait … oh crap, we already wasted $72 million on our “franchise quarterback.” Dammit.

Weird fact #6: Ted Ginn Jr. returned two kicks for TDs (both over 100 yards) against the Jets, allowing Miami to win despite gaining just 164 yards of offense – compared to 392 yards for the Jets. Also the Jets sacked Chad Henne six times for negative 60 yards, which is more yards than Miami registered running the ball all game. And somehow Miami won the game.

Relevant fact #1: By losing, the Jets basically dashed their playoff hopes against the rocks. They are now 4-4, after starting 3-0.

Relevant fact #2: The only remaining undefeated teams are quarterbacked by Drew Brees and Peyton Manning. Coincidence? I think no.

Relevant fact #3: The Jags effectively killed their playoff hopes by losing to 0-6 Tennessee, even though Maurice Jones-Drew had TD runs of 79 and 80 yards. I’m think Jacksonville could be interested in a new QB of the future after Garrard put up a big ugly stinker against the worst pass defense in the league.

Relevant fact #4: Two divisions have three five-win teams: the NFC East (Dallas and Philly are 5-2, NY is 5-3) and the AFC North (Pittsburgh and Cincy are 5-2, Baltimore is 5-3). That’s bad news for wildcard hopefuls like Atlanta, Green Bay, Houston and San Diego.

Relevant fact #5: The best team in the AFC West got crushed by the third best team in the AFC North.

Meaningless fact #1: LaDanian Tomlinson has run for 3 TDs this year – all against the Raiders.

Meaningless fact #2: Both LT and the Raiders suck.

Meaningless fact #3: The Rams and Lions played a football game on Sunday.

Contentious fact #1: Brett Favre is a top five QB in the NFL this year. (Manning, Brees, Brady, Roethlisberger, Favre). …followed by Ryan, Palmer, Flacco, Rodgers, Romo, Warner, Schaub, Eli, Rivers, McNabb, Hasslebeck, Cutler, Garrard, Orton and Cassel. In that order. Which means that by my count, twelve starting QBs don’t even register.

Contentious fact #2: Adrian Peterson is not only the best running back in the NFL, but the best running back since Barry Sanders.

Contentious fact #3: I still like my Super Bowl pick of Eagles-Patriots.

On my way to Boston's to watch MNF! Go Falcons!