CANELO DOMINATES SMITH

Canelo Alvarez got back into the ring last night for the first since the pandemic began.  He faced undefeated Callum Smith and gave him his first lost.  Smith is now 27-1. but more importantly Canelo is now the WBA, WBC and Ring super-middleweight champion.  Canelo is now 52-1-2 in his storied career and possibly pound for pound boxing's best fighter.

 

Canelo lost a very close first round but did not look back after that.  Even as the shorter fighter he controlled the pace of the fight and dominated to get the unanimous decision.  Canelo now wants to unify all belts at 168 lbs, saying no matter who it is.

 

SUNS FINISH PRESEASON WINLESS

 The Suns were winless in the preseason, should this worry us as fans?  Many will say no, “it’s just the preseason.”  Also “the new players need time to gel together.”  I disagree and here is why I think we should be worried that the Suns did not win a preseason game.

 

During the summer the Suns went undefeated during the Bubble and you would not be able to tell one Suns fan “but it’s just 8 games.”  Their argument would be this is a good gage of what the future holds.  So why can’t the same be said for the preseason?  The team looks totally different from a few months ago the future is now.  The pressure is on for the Suns to make the playoffs and preseason should be no different.

 

The other reason the preseason record is a big deal is because of the new additions to the team.   Chris Paul and Jae Crowder and new to the team and the starting lineup.  They will pair great with Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges and DeAndre Ayton.  It would have been great to see this unit produce at least one win.  Now we will have to wait until the regular season for our first win with the new guys.

 

The last reason the preseason record is a concern is DeAndre Ayton.  The former number 1 pick enters his 3^rd NBA season and after the preseason we still have the same questions we had about Ayton coming into this season.  Can he be aggressive?  Can he dominate the paint?  Again, something Suns fan will have to wait and see was the regular season starts.

CARDINALS KEEP PLAYOFF CHANCES ALIVE

 The Arizona Cardinals kept their playoff hopes alive today with a win in New York against the Giants 26-7.  The Cardinals were in a must win situation after losing three straight, dropping their record to 6-6 after starting 5-2.  They also fell to the eight spot in the NFC, leaving them on the outside looking in.

 

The Cardinals defense dominated from start to finish and carried the team to victory.  The offense was much better this week, although bad play calling seemed to be a factor early on.  The offense seemed to focus on the issue they had after last week’s loss.  Kyler looking conformable and getting DeAndre Hopkins involved.

 

Murray still at times looked like he was having a hard time reading the difference, but that went away once he started using his feet.  He had 47 yards on 13 carries to go along with 244 yards passing and a touchdown.  Hopkins also got involved, grabbing 9 receptions for 136 yards in the victory.

 

The Cardinals are now 7-6 and hold the seventh seed, just making the playoffs.  With just 3 games remaining they control their own destiny.  They need to win 2 of those games.  With the Eagles, 49ers and Rams remaining it is very possible for them to do.

 

SUMLIN FIRED FROM ARIZONA

 

Photo from arizonawildcats.com

 

Earlier today the University of Arizona announced that it has fired Head Football coach Kevin Sumlin.  This comes one day after Sumlin led the Wildcats to the biggest margin of defeat to rival Arizona St. 70-7.  The Wildcats are 0-5 in the shortened season due to Covid-19.  Arizona was thought to be looking for another game next weekend, but after today’s firing it’s unsure if the school week try to get another game on their schedule.

 

Sumlin came to Arizona with high expectations and has under preformed since he took the job.  The Wildcat’s are 9-20 under Sumlin with just 6 conference victories.  Sumlin had two years left on his contract and the University has decided to honor the contract and buy him out for $75 million.

 

The school now needs to hit a homerun with it’s next hire.  ASU already dominates the state in recruiting ever since Herm Edwards was hired the same year as Sumlin.  Who will be the next head coach for the Wildcats?  Only time will tell.

STEELERS UNBEATEN NO MORE

 The Pittsburgh Steelers has had a tough couple of weeks due to Covid-19.  They had to wait until last Wednesday to play their game against the Baltimore Ravens.  Then this weeks game was pushed back to Monday against the Washington Football team.

The Steelers have also been playing sluggish the last three weeks but have been able to pull out victories and remain undefeated.  They came in to Monday Nights game 11-0 and face a 4-7 Washington Football tram.  Washington is in a battle with the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles for the NFC East.

Washington is down to it's third QB this season in Alex Smith.  Smith has been doing well and has some people saying he is the best QB in the NFC East.  That's a hard opinion to argue with.  Washington started very slow but like the rest of the season, the came on strong in the second half and pulled off the upset.  Washington won 23-17.

Washington is now tied for first place in the NFC East.  The Giants own the tiebreaker and would host a playoff game and be the number 4 seed, if the playoffs started today.

CARDINALS LOSE MORE THAN JUST A DIVISION GAME

 The Arizona Cardinals lost to the Los Angeles Rams 38-28 yesterday in Glendale.  The game was not as close as the score shows,  The Cardinals had one of their worst first halves of the season, and the second half was not much better.

Kyler Murray struggled and it started to show in the entire team.  Wide out DeAndre Hopkins was visible frustrated on the sideline.  Fox showed him on the sideline and he was so frustrated you could almost feel how hard he was biting down on his mouth piece.  Hopkins was put in check in the first half and wasn't much more effective in the second half.

The loss is big for the Cardinals.  Not only does it drop them to 6-6 but it also put them in third place in the NFC West.  The loss also drops the Cardinals in the playoff race.  They are now the eight seed in the NFC.  This means if the playoffs were today they would just miss the playoffs.

The Cardinals finish the season with the Giants, Eagles, 49ers and Rams, in that order.  They control their own destiny but one more loss could put an abrupt end to their season.

SPENCE EASILY BEATS GARCIA

 Boxing was back in the spotlight last night from Arlington Texas when Errol Spence faced off against Danny Garcia.  Spence fought for the first time in over a year due to a severe car accident that nearly killed him. 

Garcia had is eyes set on Spence's tittles and even with the lay off Danny "Swift" Garcia knew he had a tough task ahead of him. 

Spence, known as The Truth, did not disappoint his fans. Nor did he look like a fighter that has not fight in over a year.  

Spence fought a smart fight and used his jab to control the fight. The jab took its toll on Garcia and on his eye.  Garcia's eye was swollen but it did not end up being a factor.  

Garcia fought a decent fight, throwing hard punches but was not aggressive enough to win rounds.   Spence win the fight without question and was given the unanimous decision.

Now the question is what's next for both fighters?  Many want to see Spence take on the other Champ in the division, Terrance Bud Crawford.  Spence did not clarify who he wanted to fight in the post fight interview, leading some to think he is dodging Crawford. 

Garcia is 0-3 in Championship fights ans you have to wonder are his boxing days numbered?  He will need to win his next fight in dominating fashion if he wants to remain relevant.  

  

NBA RETURNS RIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

 It feels like the NBA just finished the season, and yet a new season is upon us.  The was successful in finishing it’s 2019-2020 season after is was postponed due to Covid-19.  The NBA instituted a “Bubble” and was able to crown the Los Angeles Lakers it’s Champion.

 

The Phoenix Suns were part of that bubble and went 8-0 just missing the playoffs.  The great play coupled with the fact that Kelly, Oubre, one of their best players did not play, has the Phoenix faithful very optimistic that the team has finally turned a losing team into a playoff contender.

 

Oubre has since been traded, but that is okay with the fans in Phoenix.  The Suns acquired Guard Chris Paul in the trade.   Paul is a bona fide superstar and instantly makes the Suns a playoff team.

 

Because the season had to start later this year it has been shortened to 72 games.  The season begins December 22, 2020.  The Suns begin December 23, 2020 when they take on the Dallas Mavericks in a nationally televised game.

NFL IS BACK!

We are just hours away from the log awaited start to the 2020 NFL season.  The Houston Texans visit the Kansas City Chiefs in an AFC battle.  The Chiefs look to defend their Super Bowl Tittle and the Texans look to be spoilers and improve on their playoff season from a year ago.

 

This season opener will be different because of the ongoing Pandemic.  All eyes will be on football, but we will also be watching to see how the Pandemic has affected football.  Either way you look at it once the opening kick is made we will be back to a little bit of normalcy.

 

 

TIDBIT TUESDAY: 8/25/2020

 Today's edition of Tidbit Tuesday takes us to the gridiron and the Arizona Cardinals.  Did you know that Cardinals Safety Budda Baker is the highest paid saefty in NFL history?

That's the young safety signed a 4 year $59 million extentsion with the team this morning.  Baker has made the Pro Bowl twice in his career.  The move comes just weeks before the regular season is set to start and will allow Baker to focus on football.

The move is a great move for the Cardinals.  Baker is a part of a secondary that looks to improve on last years lackluster performance.  They have added key pieces that will make the team competitive in every games.  With the offensive firepower they have the Cardinals will definately battle for a playoff spot.

SUNS GET TENTH PICK

 Today the NBA held their annual draft lottery. Due to the pandemic and the stoppage of basketball in mid-march, the playoffs started late and so we had to wait for the draft lottery. 

The Phoenix Suns, who just missed the playoffs, after going 8-0 in the bubble had a small chance at the number 1 pick. 

Unfortunately the chips did not fall in the Suns favor. They ended up getting the number 10 pick in the NBA Draft.  Now the big question is what to do with it?

COYOTES KNOCKED OUT OF NHL PLAYOFFS

 The Arizona Coyotes lost to the Colorado Avalanche 7-1 in Game 5 of the NHL playoffs.  With the win the Avalanche when the series 4-1. They now move on to the second round.

The Coyotes now go home and look to prepare for next season.  Despite a good season, the Coyotes were outmatched and did not have a chance against the Avalanche.

Not many people expected the Coyotes to make the playoffs.  The team had a good season, despite the early playoff exit.  They have a promising future ahead of them. 

TIDBIT TUESDAY: 8/18/2020

 This week's edition of Tidbit Tuesday takes us to high school football.  Did you know that Carl Hayden has only been to the playoffs in one season in its 63 years of existence?

Carl Hayden Community High School opened up in 1957 in West Phoenix.  The Falcons have had plenty of success in basketball, soccer, wrestling and softball and baseball.  The school was always known for having a bad football team.

All of that changed in 1996 when head coach Stuart Goldstein had the team believing in themselves and led them to their only playoff berth in school history.The year was 1996 and team was led by senior QB Mark Mejia, who is now the head coach at North High School.

The Falcons finished the regular season 6-4 and just made it into the playoffs by beating Trevor Browne in the regular season finale.  They played Brophy Prep in the first round of the state playoffs at Phoenix College.  Brophy beat Carl Hayden soundly and ended the dream season.

Carl Hayden looks to get back in to the post-season for the first time in 24 years under second year coach Steven Arenas.  The school is in a new conference and with a powerful run game looks to be more competitive this season

COYOTES FALL TO AVALANCHE IN GAME FOUR

The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Arizona Coyotes 7-1 in game 4 of the NHL playoffs.  Colorado now leads the series 3-1 and is one win away from advancing to the next round.

 

The Coyotes haven't put up much of a fight going down 2-0.  The won game 3 to make the series interesting.  They will now be playing for their playoff lives on Wednesday in game 5 of the best of 7 series.

 

The Coyotes had a good season and used the bubble season to qualify for the playoffs.  They have not been in the playoffs since the 2011-2012 season.

BENAVIDEZ IMPRESSIVE IN VICTORY

 Phoenix native David "El Bandera Roja" Benavidez defeated Roamer Alexis Angulo in convincing fashion on Saturday Night.  The fight was the main event for Premier Boxing Championship on the Show Time network.  The fight was stopped when Angulo's corner did not let him come out after the 11th round, making it officially a tenth round knockout.

The most excitement in the fight came the day before when Benavidez came in nearly three pounds overweight.  He didn't even try to cut the remaining weight.  Instead he had to vacate his belt, even with the victory.  In the post fight interview Benavidez took responsibility for not making weight.

This marks the second time he has lost his tittle outside of the ring.  The first time he tested possitive for cocaine during a random drug test.  Benavidez says he does not have a discipline problem.  He says he knows he has made mistakes and has learned from them.

Benavidez did not look like a guy that didn't make weight.  He was consistant with his game plan and dominated the fight from start to finish.  He is now 23-0 with 20 KO's.  At just 23 years old he has the potential to be one of the best boxers of all time. 

PHOENIX UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT POSTPONES FALL SPORTS DUE TO COVID-19

Yesterday the Phoenix Union High school District announced that it has postponed all fall sports until further notice due to Covid-19.  None of the 17 High Schools have met the state's benchmarks to reopen.  The important thing here is that it is postponed and not canceled.

District Athletic Director Dr. Zack Munoz was on Arizona Sports 98.7 FM this morning with the legend Kevin McCabe and defended the districts stance on this issue.  Munoz said "We looked at our community, our zip codes are the highest in the entire state."  Munoz was referring to the soaring numbers in the great Phoenix area, where his schools are located.  Munoz later went on to say that fall sports will return when benchmarks get to the point where it is safe for the students to return.

Currently the district is doing online learning and will continue to do so until at least fall break, Munoz said.  Fall break usually is Mid-October for the Phoenix Union High Schools.  Many people want to see High School sports return, but I think we can all agree that we would rather see it return safely.

When will that be?  No one knows, so for now we have to play the waiting game.

PHOENIX BOXER MISSES WEIGHT, VACATES TITTLE

 Phoenix WBC Super Middleweight Champion David Benavidez (22-0, 19 KO's) will fight Roamer Alexis Angulo (26-1, 22 KO's) tomorrow night in Connecticut.  The fight was set to be in defense of Benavidez tittle, but that won't be the case tomorrow when the two square off in the ring.

Benavidez weighed in 2.8 pounds over weight.  The fight will still go on, but the consequences for Benavidez are severe.  He is now forced to vacant his tittle, meaning even with a win he will leave the ring with the tittle.  If Angulo wins he will be the new champion.

The fight is going to be a good fight between two very talented boxers.  Benavidez has a lot to prove now.  He is too good of a boxer to let this affect his career.  He will be fighting for another tittle very soon.  The fight will be on ShoTime.

SUNS END SEASON WITH WIN, BUT MISS PLAYOFFS

 The Phoenix Suns ended the regular season today with a 128-102 victory over the Dallas Mavs in the Bubble in Orlando, Florida.  The Suns completed a perfect 8-0 bubble season and kept there chances of making the play-in game alive.

The Suns Devin Booker continued to show his star power with a 27 point performance.  Booker is averaging 30.3 points while in Orlando.  The Suns have looked like a totally different team since the season restarted.  They finish the regular season 34-39.

The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 119-106 clinching them a spot in the play-in game.  This game occurred at the same time as the Suns game.  These results left the game between Portland and New Jersey a must watch.  

The Portland Trailblazers beat the New Jersey Nets  134-133 ending the Suns hope of extending their season.  Even though the Suns didn't make the post season their play inside the NBA bubble gives them plenty of momentum for next season.

SUNS ONE WIN AWAY FROM PERFECT SEASON IN NBA BUBBLE

Yesterday the Phoenix Suns defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 130-117 in the NBA Bubble. The Suns improved to 7-0 since the season resumed after the stoppage due to Covid-19. The SUns have one game remaining tomorrow when they play the Dallas Mavs. The Suns are playing for a perfect 8-0 Bubble Season, but that's not all they are playing for.

If the Suns beat the Mavs and either Portland or Memphis loose thye will clinch the ninth seed in the Western Conference.  Due to the shortened season the NBA has put a little twist to this years playoffs.

As the Ninth seed the Suns will play the Eight seed and need to beat them 2 times, but if they just loose once they are eliminated.  If the Suns do win twice they then take over the eight seed and will face top seeded Los Angeles Lakers.  At this point, the Suns would be on a 10-game win steak.  Given the sluggish look the Lakers have had this bubble season, this would make for an interesting season.

TIDBIT TUESDAY: 8/11/2020

 In honor of the Phoenix Suns unthinkable start in the NBA bubble, they are the topic of this weeks Tidbit Tuesday. 

Did you know Dick Van Arsdale was the Original Phoenix Sun?

That’s right when the Suns became an expansion team in 1968 They chose Dick Van Arsdale with there first pick in the expansion draft. 

Van Arsdale was a shooting guard from the New York Knicks. He would go in to make the NBA All-stat team 3 times and ended his career averaging 16 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists during his NBA career. 

THE ALL-TIME GREATEST SUNS: GURU EDITION

                          Photo Via NBA.com

I was recently listening to a local radio show. On the show they had a special segment, where the hosts drafted there all time Phoenix Suns team. There was a total of 4 people drafting their all-time roster.

 

 It was a great segment and made me think, who is my all-time team?

 

So, I have decided to draft my own all-time Phoenix Suns team. The format I will use is two players from each position and two honorable mention players.

 

 The Suns have many great players and though you may not agree, I'd love to hear your thoughts on my list. So here you go... The Az Sports Guru All-Time Suns team.

 

Point Guard: Steve Nash and Kevin Johnson

This may have been the easiest position to pick on the list.  Many would say Nash is the best player the Suns have ever had.  That is hard to debate but, in my opinion, KJ needs to be in that discussion as well.

 

Shooting Guard:  Devin Booker and Jeff Hornacek

Devin Booker is a legitimate superstar and sky is the limit for his career.  The Suns have just begun to put the needed pieces around him and are poised to make a playoff run this and every year, as long as they keep Booker hear.  Hornacek may be best known for being traded for the great Charles Barkley, but Hornacek was a main piece in the Suns success while he was in Phoenix.

 

Small Forward:  Shawn Marion and Dan Majerle

Shawn Marion, known as the Matrix, was a very talented player and could dominate a game when needed.  He had a long and successful NBA career and was a fan favorite while in Phoenix.  Many were upset when he was traded away for an aging Shaquille O’Neal.  “Thunder” Dan Majerle is a player on this list that many people may not agree with, but many booed when he was drafted and ended up eating humble pie when Majerle’s career was over.  Majerle was an all-around player.  He was first known for his three-point shooting ability and then developed into a great slam dunker, He also was so good on defense that would be tasked to guard the great Michael Jordan.

 

Power Forward: Charles Barkley and Tom Chambers

Charles Barkley came to Phoenix and put the Suns on the NBA map.  His dominance on the court quickly made him a fan favorite.  He is another name that will be often mentioned as best Phoenix Sun ever.  The other forward on this list is Tom Chambers.  Chambers was a consistent player that other teams needed to worry about when he was on the floor.  Chamber’s showed how impactful he was in a game in 1990 when he scored 60 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

 

Center:  Amar’e Stoudemire and Mark West

Center is a position the Suns have always struggled at.  Some can say current center DeAndre Ayton already belongs on this because of the lack of quality centers that have played for the Suns.  Shaq did not make this list because he was not with the team very long and did not make much of an impact, even though he did help us beat San Antonio in the playoffs.  The two men that did make the list are Amar’e Stoudemire and Mark West.  Stoudamire was drafted right out of high school and made an immediate impact winning Rookie of the Year.  He was so explosive and even though he was listed as a power forward he played a lot at the center position.  Mark West was a solid performer at the position.  He did not have big numbers but he managed to make an impact against some of the NBA’s best big men.

 

Honorable mention:  Dick Van Arsdale and Connie Hawkins

Connie Hawkins was probably the most popular Sun, there Charles Barkley before Charles Barkley if you would.  Van Arsdale, who has a twin brother Tom that spent some time in Phoenix also, was known as “The Original Sun” after being drafted by the Suns in the 1968 Expansion draft.  These two guys probably deserve to be on this list but did not make it because I did not get to see them play.

 

COYOTES ADVANCE TO NHL PLAYOFFS

 Like everything else hockey was postponed in March due to Covid-19.  NHL resumed play with a unique schedule.  This schedule allowed the Arizona Coyotes to play for a chance at making the 2020 NHL Playoffs.

 

Like the NBA, NHL played in a bubble in Canada.  The league has done a masterful job at keeping the players and all involved safe.  They have no positive tests of Covid-19.

 

The Arizona Coyotes played the Nashville Predators in a best of 5 series.  The winner would advance to the NHL playoffs.  The Coyotes came out on top winning the series 3-1.  The Coyotes proved they were ready for a chance to make the playoffs.  They scored 4 goals in each game.

 

The Coyotes have not made the playoffs since 2012.  That year they made it to the Western Conference Finals.  This year they hope to make it all the way to the Stanley Cup.  The journey begins later this week in a best of 7 first round matchup.  There opponent has not been determined yet but you better believe the Arizona Coyotes will be ready.

SUNS MAKING NOISE IN NBA BUBBLE

The 2020 NBA season has resumed in the bubble in Orlando Florida. There were plenty of headlines to watch for when the season resumed over a week ago.

Nobody could have guessed the first surprise of the bubble season.  That surprise was the Phoenix Suns.

The Suns led by there version of "The Big Three", Ricky Rubio, Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton, have came oyt on fire.

The Suns have started 3-0 with wins against two potential playoff teams in the Mavs and Clippers.

The Suns have received major support from their bench.  No player has made as big an impact as Devin Booker.  Booker hit the game winner as time expired against the Clippers with a shot they may be the biggest of his career.

The Suns aren't done yet.  They have 5 more games to try and catch the eight seed, whoever that may be, and forced their way into the NBA Playoffs. 

TIDBIT TUESDAY: 8/4/2020

Did you know 32 years today the Phoenix Cardinals made their debut in Arizona?  The team has since changed their name to the Arizona Cardinals.  The game was played at ASU's Sun Devil stadium and was the preseason opener.

The Cardinals hosted the Seattle Seahawks.  At the time Seattle was an AFC West team and the rivalry had not begun.  Seattle won 21-7 despite the Cardinials having more yards from scrimmage.  The difference in the game was the 5 fumbles the Cardinals lost.

Alot has changed in 32 years, espciealy this year when there will not be a preseason, and who knows if there will be a regular season.

SPORTS IS BACK!

Sports is back! And so is The Az Sports Guru.  Baseball, basketball hockey and football have all made the necessary adjustments to either resume or begin their season.

All sports were stopped in mid March chen Covid-19 hit the country hard and forced everything to shutdown.  The country is not out of the woods yet, infact some would argue that we are still not yet in a decline. 

States are open enough for sports to begin abd it could not have came at a better time. The country is salivating at the chance of any sign of normalcy. Sports brings that even though for the time being fans will not be able to watch a game in person.

Stay tuned to this blog, follow on Facebook and Twitter for scores highlights and commentary.  

 

NHLPA APPROVES 24 TEAM TOURNAMENT

The National Hockey League Player Association has approved a plan to bring back hockey. The plan is a 24 team tournament that will likely make hockey the first sport to return to live action.

Hockey has been away since March 12th due to the Corona virus. On Friday the Players Association approved the plan. There are a lot of details that still need to be worked out, but the plan brings us one step closer to having hockey return. 

Most likely they will take 12 teams from each conference.  If this is true the Arizona Coyotes are sitting in 11th place in the Western Conference.  This would put them in the playoffs and keep there hopes of a Stanley Cup alive.

WHY WE NEED SPORTS BACK

We have been without sports for a little over two months now.  Sports were halted in Mid-March, just like everything else due to the pandemic brought on to the United States by the Coronavirus.  Things are now starting to open back up cautious throughout the country.  

And now it is time to bring back sports!

Sports is more than just entertainment for the country.  When sports come back it will bring relieve with it.  A sense of normalcy.  People don't realize but when sports shut down in March tha's when this pandemic became real for most people.  Bringing sports will be a definite sign that we are on the other side of the Coronavirus. 

I realize there are a lot of logistics to bringing back sports and to that I say to all the deciding parties involved, Get it done!  Make the tough decisions that need to be made and adjust schedules accordingly and give the fans what they want.  To see a live sport of any kind!

DAN MARJERLE TO SUE GCU

Grand Canyon University recently fired Dan Marjerle as it's men's basketball coach.  The news was somewhat shocking because Marjerle was making huge strides with the program.  He is not going away quietly as he has filed a lawsuit against the school for money he says is owed to him. 

Marjerle was fired in March after he led the Lope's to a disappointing 13-15 season.  In the lawsuit Marjerle claims the University owes him money for time remaining on his contract.  Some experts sat Marjerle has a strong case.

Grand Canyon released a statement saying they plan to defend themselves in court, if need be.  

Marjerle played 7 seasons with the Phoenix Suns and was an assistant with the team before getting hired at Grand Canyon in 2013.  He spent 7 seasons at the school and put the team on the basketball map with 4 straight 20 win seasons.  

HOW I WOULD FINISH THE NBA SEASON

We have reached May and still no sports.  Places are begining to reopen.  People want to get back to some sort of normalcy and that begins with sports.

The NBA was one of the first, if not the first, sport to stop playing games. So will they be one of the first to start playing again?  Alot of people hope so.

The NBA will begin allowing their players to start working out in some sort of capacity om May 8.  There will be plenty of precautions and restrictions.  Just the fact that this is being allowed means basketball will be back soon.  The question is how soon and at what capacity?

The NBA needs to come back, but in my opinion it needs to be a modified return. If was commissioner of the NBA this is how I would bring basketball back.

Now keep in mine this is just my idea and some kinks would have to be worked out but that holds true for every plan. 

Once all teams are cleared to practice, weather it's in their own state or a neutral site, each team practices for a week than plays 3 games.  Those would be considered practice games but they would count. You add that record to you regular season record and rank all 30 teams.  This can be done in a two week time frame. 

Then you pick a location, and have a March Madness style tournament. A single elimination tournament played everyday for 5 days straight.

You crown a champion and your season is over in three weeks and teams and players can prepare for next season.

This is how I finish the NBA season now it's up to the NBA to find a way to finish that will be acceptable to players and watchable to fans at the same time.

BURROW GOES NUMBER 1!

                                                                           Photo from google.com

The much anticipated NFL Draft was held today and it started off with a roar.  A roar of a Tiger that is.  LSU QB Joe Burrow was the first overall pick to the Cincinnati Bengals.  This was not a surprise to anyone.

The Bengals now will have Burrow and veteran Andy Dalton to battle for the starting position.  If Burrow is not the opening day starter he will definitely be a starter by the end of the season.  In my opinion the job will be his by week 6.

WHAT TO DO AT NUMBER 8!

                   Photo compliments of steelers.com


Tomorrow is the 2020 NFL Draft.  With everything that is going on with the Coronavirus the draft will look a little different this year.  The draft was scheduled to be in Las Vegas, but now there will be no fans and the teams will participate from their team facilities over the internet.

It will be different, but hey it's football and the NFL draft so let's go with it!  With that being said a lot of questions will be answered in just under 24 hours.

So what should the Arizona Cardinals do when they pick at number 8?  Most people are saying they should pick on offensive lineman or trade down and get a 2nd round pick.  If you ask me the Arizona Cardinals should go wide receiver at number 8.

Most people will not agree with my, even more so now that they have acquired DeAndre Hopkins, one of the league's best receivers in the NFL.  My ideal pick would be Alabama's Jerry Jeudy, although I would be okay with Oklahoma's CeeDee Lamb.

The team has second year QB Kyler Murray and promisses to be a high powered offense.  No matter how you look at last season the offensive line held there own and was not the problem.  They have improved and with Murray entering his second season he will be better also.  So why not pick a big talent reciever and stack your offense for the future?  Either way this should be a fun draft to watch.

WHEN WILL SPORTS BE BACK?

Most of the country is on some sort of lockdown. Either you must stay inside or there is a curfew. With this going on the TV ratings are at an all time high. For the sports fan we are stuck watching replays of games or going on YouTube to get our sports fix.

So, when can we expect to have sports back in our lives?

Well, unfortunately, not anytime soon. Many experts are saying this pandemic has not reached its peak and it will get worse before it gets better. The president said yesterday that we as a nation will get through this.  Then he said that we will lose many lives during the process.

We all miss sports and certainly want our lives to go back to the way they used to be.  Right now the only thing we can do is STAY HOME!

HOW THE CORONAVIRUS HAS AFFECTED ARIZONA SPORTS

The Corona Virus has spread so much that there is no way you can’t hear a story about it. The sports world has been affected just as severe as anything else.  In Arizona we are affected more than you think.

The NBA,NHL, MLB and College Basketball have all canceled there respective seasons. Arizona has teams in all of these sports. Besides the Suns, the Arizona teams were poised to make a run at a tittle. This most likely would not have happened but in sports, especially come tournament and playoff time, anything can happen.

The Coyotes may have made the playoffs and seemed to be a dangerous team.  The Dbacks were getting ready to start what was a promising season, and at some point they should start the season and compete for a playoff spot and make a run at the World Series.

College basketball is different, The Arizona Wildcats and the Arizona State Sun Devils both had teams that were going to make the NCAA Tournament.  You could also make a case that they both could have went deep in to the tournament.  ASU was also a team that could have won thier first ever PAC 12 Championship.


All these hopes and dreams will have to wait until next season as these the country deals with the Corona Virus.

TIDBIT TUESDAY: MARCH 10,2020

Tidbit Tuesday takes us to Major League Baseball this week. Did you know the first ever Spring Training baseball game played in Arizona was between the Cleveland Indians and the New York Giants?

That’s Right, the first ever spring training game was in Tucson and part of the Grapefruit League..  The Indians defeated the Giants 3-1.  The game was played March 8, 1946. The two teams played 17 times that spring in Tucson and Phoenix.  

WHY I WOULD RUN THE BALL

It’s March, which for the NFL, means free agency begins. While some top players are changing teams let’s take a look at some strategy behind the game.

The pass game has become the most popular part of football. Everyone likes to see a lot of passes during the game. It makes the game more exciting.  Is passing the best way to win the game?

In some cases yes,  but it depends on the coaches approach to the game. Passing a lot usually means scoring fast. When you score fast that gives the other team an opportunity to get the football and score. It also usually puts your defense on the field more often, so you better have a good defense.  That’s why I would run the ball more if I was an offensive coordinator in the NFL.

If you run the ball you can control the clock. If you can control the clock you essential control the outcome of the game. You don’t even need a great running back to do so.  As long as you have an above average offensive line and a good playing calling scheme you can be successful running the football.

If you want to be successful you have to win games and running the football is one way to control the flow of the game.  Another plus to running the ball is if you stay to your game plan of running the defense will have to adjust there scheme to try and stop you.  When that happens it will open up your passing attack.

TIDBIT TUESDAY:March 3, 2020

Welcome to another edition of Tidbit Tuesday.   Did you know that in the 2018 NBA draft the first two selections played high school basketball in Phoenix Arizona?

That’s right the first overall selection was DeAndre Ayton to the Phoenix Suns. Ethan played high school basketball at Hillcrest prep in Phoenix Arizona.  He then went on to start at the university of Arizona, before being drafted by the Suns. Then with the second overall pick the Sacramento Kings chose Marvin Bagley III. Bagley played his high school ball at tempe Corona del Sol for one season. He then transferred to Hillcrest prep and played one year with eating. Bagley III Played college basketball at the university of duke.

ADAN ZAPIEN: FROM MARYVALE TO UNIVERSITY

67th ave. and Indian School Road is one of the busiest intersections in the West Phoenix neighborhood known as Maryvale.  What most people don't know is that just east of the intersection lies a small, yet successful charter school,  Western School of Science and Technology.

The school is home to 514 students in grades 7th-12.  Although Western is a small school it has been successful in the classroom, as well as the football field.  Western is a charter school and plays in the Canyon Athletic Association.  They play 8 man football and are in the Fiesta Conference.

The schools average enrollment for football is 16.  The number may seem small, but the team plays big. They have only lost 1 regular seasons game in the past 2 seasons.  The school is 17-4 in three Varsity seasons.

Western is led senior Adan Zapien.  Zapien is the heart and soul of the team and the schools most decorated athlete.  Western coach Adrian Espana, also the schools Athletic Director, says Zapien has been playing for him since seventh grade.

Zapien plays running back and defensive end and has put up huge numbers throughout his high school career.  He has rushed for 995 yards in just 24 games.  He is also a force on defense reeking havoc on the opposing offense.  He has 14 sacks, 5 fumble recoveries, 2 defensive TD's and a safety.  Zapien has numerous awards which include, 2017-2018 CAA All State Running Back,

2018-2019 Real Sports Training MVP (Summer), 2018-2019 CAA All State Running Back, 2018-2019 CAA All State Defensive End, 2019-2020 CAA All State Running Back.

All these accolades are impressive and something to be proud of for a kid coming out of the tough neighborhood of Maryvale.  The most impressive accomplishment in this young man's life is when he signed a national letter of intent to play football at Arizona Christian University.  He is the schools first ever football player to sign a letter saying he will play for a University. 

In a messenger interview I asked coach Espana what Zapien has meant to him and the school.  What does he mean to me.  “Adan embodies what a student athlete should be. He gives it his all in the class and on the field.  He is a role model to our school and our community. Adan has made our school and our football program better. Not only is he a great student athlete, but he is a great person, that makes the people around him better. His dedication to the team and our school is like no other. Like many of my football players, Adan is like another son to me and I wish him the best.”


Zapien didn't start playing football until he got to Western, but he caught on to the game fast and quickly became the heart and soul of warrior Football.  Zapien is excited to be continuing his education and football career at Arizona Christian University.  He will major in criminal justice in college and his long term goal is "to continue helping my mom and taking care of my family".

Zapien has 5 siblings and family is one of his priorities in life.  He is inspired by his teammates to keep playing football.  He says the brotherhood he has formed with his teammates is very importmant to him.  Zapien also plays baseball, but will focus on football in college.

I asked Zapien what advice he had for incoming freshman that want to play football at the next level.  "Just to be humble, have a lot of commitment to football and school.  Also pit work everyone else."

Coach Espana has set up a Go Fund Me account to assist with college expenses.  Here is the link.
Adan Zapien's Go Fund Me page

TIDBIT TUESDAY: FEBRUARY 26, 2020

March is around the corner and that means so is March Madness.  So to prepare you for college basketballs best time of the year Tidbit Tuesday is all about basketball.

Did you know that Arizona State has never won a Pac 12 Basketball Championship?  ASU has been to the NCAA  Tournament but has never won the regular season or Tournament Pac 12 Championship.

ASU enters the final two weeks of the regular season in first place.  If they can hold on and win the conference it will be the Sun Devils first ever tittle.

FURY DOMINATES WILDER

Last night was the much anticipated rematch between two undefeated heavyweights Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder.   Wilder came in at 42-0-1 and Fury 29-0-1. Both had 61 knockouts between them. In December 2018 they put on an unforgettable fight that ultimately ended in a split decision draw.

This anticipated rematch had a lot to live up to if it wanted to be as good as the last one.  The hype that led up to the fight was intense and when the bell sounded Fury stayed just as intense.  Fury dominated the fight and had his way with Wilder. He damaged his eardrum and that was the beginning of the end for Wilder.

In the seventh round Fury was again dominating and had Wilder on the ropes and seem to be having his way with Wilder. His corner threw in the towel and the red stopped the fight ending it in the seventh round. Wilder, at first questioned the stoppage until he found out his corner threw in the towel.

Fury, now 30-0-1, was so excited about the victory that during his post fight interview he sang American Pie, and so did most of the audience. It was a great victory for Fury that now leaves no doubt about who is the better fighter between him and Wilder

SUNS LOSE FIRST GAME AFTER ALL-STAR BREAK

The Phoenix Suns got back on the court last night.  They went to Toronto to play the Raptors in their first game back from the All-Star break. The Suns lost 118-101. The Suns started slow by just scoring 23 points in the first quarter. They followed that with a 20 point second quarter and find themselves down 67-43 at the half.

Toronto Raptor big man Pascal Siakam led all scorers with 37 points and followed it up with 12 boards and 3 assists. The Suns were led by All-Star guard Devin Booker who had 21 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. DeAndre Ayton added17 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

The Suns fall to 20-34 on the season. They have a quick turnaround as they now go to Chicago to play the Bulls tonight.

BRADY TO RAIDERS?

Larry Fitzgerald Sr., the father of Arizona Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald, and a Minnesota media member is report that the soon to be Las Vegas Raiders are prepared to offer free agent QB Tom Brady a two year $60 million deal.

At this time it is unsure how serious this offer is but If the Patriots don’t re-sign Brady soon he will be the most sought after free agent this offseason and maybe even ever.  Seeing Brady in a uniform other than a Patriot one will be a strange sight to see.

Brady wants to prove he can win without coach Bill Belichick. But can that actually happen?  Most likely yes,  then the question turns to can Brady win with the Raiders?  We may soon find out if Brady does take this offer.

BOOKER NAMED TO ALL-STAR TEAM

The NBS announced this morning that Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker has been chosen to play in this weekends NBA All-Star game.  Booker replaces Portland trailblazer Damian Lillard.  Booker will play for Team Lebron.

Booker was not chosen to the All-Star game, in what many are saying was a complete snub.  Booker has been quiet about it, but his frustration has shown on the court since the announcement.  He had arguably his worst game in Los Angeles a few nights ago.

Booker definatelt deserves to be an All-Star and hopefully will showcase why on Sunday.  Suns fans are estatic that he has been chosen.  Those same fans hope this means an end to his subpar play as of late.

Booker becomes the first Phoenix Suns to make the All-Star team since Steve Nash in 2012.  He is the 24th player in franchise history to do so as well.  Gail Goodrich and Dick Van Arsdale were the first Suns to make the All-Star game.  They did so in the 1968-1969 season.

TIDBIT TUESDAY: FEBRUARY 11, 2020

In this weeks edition of TidbitTuesday we go extreme. That’s right the XFL.  The season debuted this past weekend and it was a huge success.

Did you know the first touchdown in the reboot of the XFL was made by the son of a former Arizona Cardinal?  That’s right Seattle Dragons wide receiver Austin Proehl caught a 14 yard pass from Brandon Silvers for the leagues first TD.  Proehl’s father, Ricky, played for the Arizona Cardinals from 1990-1994. The team was named the Phoenix Cardinals when he joined the team. Now his son is living his dream.

SUNS QUIET AT TRADE DEALINE

The NBA trade deadline came and passed here in Phoenix. The Phoenix Suns were quiet and did not make any deals. The team was rumored to have a few deals pending but at the end of the day nothing happened. The suns roster will remain the same for at least the remainder of the season.


According to general manager James Jones he is happy with the way the team has progressed. He and Coach Monster and Williams do not want to change anything. The team has struggled as of late.  They have lost four games in a row and currently have a record of 20-31.

The team has a solid young core of Kelly Oubre, DeAndre Ayton and Devin Booker.  They also have a solid point guard in Ricky Rubio. The team is improving and is still a year or two away from playoff contention. But the team will be a winner.

TIDBIT TUESDAY: FEBRUARY 4, 2020

Now that football season is officially over, let’s turn our attention to baseball in this weeks edition of Tidbit Tuesday.  Did you know that major league pitchers and catchers report to spring training on February 11, 2020.

That’s right, baseball is right around the corner. And here in Arizona we have a lot to look forward to. The Arizona Diamondbacks have made some good off-season moves and look to make a push towards the playoffs and even possibly a World Series.

We will have to go through the Los Angeles Dodgers if they have any hope of doing so. And all that begins later this month.  Arizona is home to half the league during spring training.  So take an afternoon off of work and go catch a game and get prepared for the 2020 20 regular season.

SUPER BOWL LIV PREVIEW

Today’s the big day, Super Bowl LIV live from Miami, Florida. The NFC champion San Francisco 49ers face the AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs. This game is all about the offenses. It puts too high scoring offenses with good quarterbacks against each other. Patrick Mahomes versus Jimmy Garoppolo will be the match up everybody is looking at.

The key to this game will actually be the defense. Which defense can stop the opposing teams offense? The team that can do so will become the Super Bowl champion. San Francisco has a powerful defense in most people think they have the better defense. But don’t count out the Chiefs defense. They are a hungry bunch that has put together a great playoff run.

So who do I think will win the Super Bowl? That is a hard question to answer. But here is my answer and why.

The Kansas City Chiefs will win Super Bowl LIV. I believe the Chiefs will win because of Andy Reid. We will have to call a good game today.  The 49ers game plan will to be put pressure on Mahomes and not allow him to beat them with his arms or his legs. I don’t think the 49ers will be able to do so. Mahomes will get rid of the bar quick in the beginning. He will throw a lot of quick passes and get small chunks of yards that will add up. Then that will open up big plays through the air and with his legs.

Final score:  Kansas City Chiefs 41, San Francisco 49ers 38

DEVIN BOOKER SNUBBED

The reserves were announced this week for the 2020 NBA All-Star game. Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, who is averaging 27 points per game, was not chosen. Six guards were chosen from the Western Conference.

The fans in Phoenix are extremely upset and rightfully so. Booker was not selected simply because all star voting has become a popularity contest. Players get chosen based on their performance from there entire career and not there performance for the season.

I have said before that Booker isn’t as good as most fans think, but Booker continues to get better each year. This year he finally has a good coach, a point guard and a big man. The Suns may not make the playoffs this year but they will certainly be close. They have already won more games this season then last and we aren’t even at the break yet.

Booker at some point in his career will be an NBA All-Star. He will also lead the Suns to the playoffs, but he truest deserved to chosen to the all-star team this year.

TIDBIT TUESDAY: SUPER BOWL EDITION

Super LIV Is just five days away.  On Sunday we will see the San Francisco 49ers battle the Kansas City Chiefs.  Did you know that the San Francisco head coach won’t be a part of history when the game begins on Sunday?

Kyle Shanahan will join his father, Mike, as the only father son, nation to coach in a Super Bowl.  Mike won two Super Bowl‘s with the Denver Broncos. His son Kyle, who used to coach for him, looks to add another Super Bowl trophy to the family name.

The younger Shanahan will have his hands for Sunday when he battles the width of Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. Shanahan has had a great season improved he is worthy of winning a Super Bowl.

KOBE BRYANT DEAD ACCORDING TO TMZ SPORTS

TMZ Sports is reporting former NBA great Kobe Bryant has been killed in a helicopter crash. The incident just happened and there isn’t much details yet.

Kobe was on his personal helicopter with 4 other people in California. The plane went down and there are no survivors. According to TMX Sports Kobe’s wife, Vanessa, was not in the helicopter.

Kobe was just 41 and was a Laker legend and will be greatly missed.  Rest In Peace Kobe Bryant.

SUPER BOWL LIV IN ONE WEEK!

We are one week away from Super Bowl LIV.  The Kansas City Chiefs will play the San Francisco 49ers in Miami next Sunday at 4:30 PM Arizona time.  The game should be an exciting, high-scoring game. But what happens in the next week is also a major part of the NFL’s event. The next week I will write out several stories pertaining to the Super Bowl. I will have a special Tidbit Tuesday and I will profile some local athletes that will be playing in the big game.

So stay tuned to the blog for all your local coverage. Then sit back next Sunday and enjoy the game. There is more than just a game to watch next week. Most people tune in for the commercials and the halftime show and of course to eat all those Super Bowl snacks at the party.

All eyes will be in Miami next Sunday as the NFL crowns their newest champion. Will it be the Kansas City Chiefs or will it be the San Francisco 49ers? Only time will tell.

THE NFC CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW AND PREDICTION

Today the San Francisco 49ers host the Green Bay Packers for the NFC championship. Both teams finished the regular season 13-3.  This is the second and final game of Conference Championship weekend and it should be a good one. Here is my preview and prediction.

The Green Bay Packers are led by QB Aaron Rodgers. In order for Green Bay to win he will have to find other receivers besides Devante Adams.   After Adams there has not been much help from the receiving corps. The good news is they have two tight ends that are capable of picking up the slack. Another way Green Bay wins today is if they can control the 49ers offense.  They can do so by putting together long drives and keeping the 49er offense off of the field.

The San Francisco 49ers have home-field advantage, but that’s not the only advantage they have. They have a better defense and they have a better passing game. On paper they should not have a problem beating the Packers.  As long as the 49ers stick to their game plan they will come out victorious. Cornerback Richard Sherman is playing his best football and may be the key to victory today. If he can shut down Adams the 49ers will be the NFC champions.

My prediction:  San Francisco 28, Green Bay 14.

THE AFC CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW AND PREDICTION

It’s that time a year again folks, the conference championships. Today we find out who will participate in Super Bowl LIV. The AFC plays first when the surprising Tennessee Titans visit the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Here is my preview and my protection.

This game has all the fixings to be a great one. Tennessee has a great running attack and a good defense. If the Titans are going to win this game they have to do it by keeping the Kansas City Chiefs offense off of the field. How do they do that? They give the ball to Derrick Henry. If Henry has a game like he has been having throughout the playoffs the Titans are in good shape to come out on top. If the Titans can control the clock and keep the Chiefs offense off the field they have a good chance of winning the game. If Tennessee is going to win they also need to keep the score low. You are not winning a shoot out with the Chiefs.

The Chiefs have the best offense in football. They proved that last week by coming back from 24 points down. If the Chiefs are going to win they will have to do it on the offensive side of the football. They need to score early and score often to make Tennessee have to throw the football. If they can do that they will come out victorious. They also need to stop the running game. If they can keep Derrick Henry under 100 yards they will come out as the 2020 AFC Champions.

Like I said before this is going to be a good game. And it’s even tougher to pick a winner. But it has to be done. My prediction is Tennessee 13, Chiefs 10.

THE WEEKEND REPORT JANUARY 13, 2020

It was another tough weekend for Arizona sports. Besides the Suns none of the local teams came out victorious this weekend. Here is the recap.

The Phoenix Suns had a good weekend and it started Friday night against the Orlando Magic. They beat the Magic 98-94. Then on Sunday they played the Charlotte Hornets and came out victorious 100–92.  The Suns are now 16-23 and sitting at tent place in the Western Conference.

In the NHL the Arizona Coyotes lost two games this weekend. They lost to the Carolina Hurricanes 3-0 on Friday. Then they lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 in a shootout last night.   The Coyotes are 25-18-5 and currently have 55 points.

In college basketball it was a tough weekend for both of the Arizona schools. The Arizona Wildcats fell to the eighth ranked Oregon Ducks 74-73. Then on Sunday they lost to the Oregon State Beavers in what many are calling a shocker. They were blown out 82-65. Arizona is now 11-5 overall and 1-2 in conference play.

The ASU Sun Devils also played at the Oregon school’s this weekend. Thursday they played the Oregon State Beavers and lost 82–76. Then Saturday they played the eighth ranked Oregon Ducks. ASU hung in with the Ducks but did not come out victorious, losing 78-69. ASU is now 10-6 overall and 1-2 in PAC 12 play.

NFL DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

The NFL playoffs continue this weekend. They start today with two games on the schedule. The Minnesota Vikings travel to San Francisco to play the 49ers in the early game. Then the Tennessee Titans will play the Baltimore Ravens in Baltimore.  The action continues tomorrow when the Houston Texans play the Kansas City Chiefs. In the final game of this weekend’s playoffs the Seattle Seahawks will play the Green Bay Packers. Here are my predictions.


All four of this weekends games look to be very competitive. In the first game the Minnesota Vikings will try to play spoilers to the San Francisco 49ers. I think this will be a very tough game for both teams. This may be the only game that the quarterback does not decide the outcome. I feel the 49ers are just a little bit too strong for the Vikings. Final score: San Francisco 21, Minnesota 10.


In the night game the Ravens host of the Titans. Tennessee has been on a roll as of late and it is because of running back Derrick Henry. I don’t feel he’s good enough to carry the team passed a team like the Ravens. I see Lamar Jackson taking over this game and dominating, taking the Ravens to the AFC Championship. Final score: Baltimore 31, Tennessee 13.


The first game tomorrow has the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Houston Texans. This is going to be the game of the weekend. Both teams have great quarterbacks and rely on them to lead their team to victory. I believe this will be the upset of the weekend. Houston will come out of Kansas City victorious. Final score: Houston 31, Kansas City 28.


In the final game of the weekend the Seattle Seahawks will play the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. This is going to be a cold and snowy game. This game will be decided on the ground.  Seattle, led by QB Russell Wilson will come out victorious, because of the his escapabillity. Final score: Seattle 17, Green Bay 13.

Last weeks record: 2-2

TIDBIT TUESDAY: JAN 7, 2020

Welcome to the first edition of Tidbit Tuesday for 2020.  Did you know the Dallas Cowboys have only had 8 coaches since 1960.  The storied franchise hired mike McCarthy today to replace Jason Garrett after letting his contract expire.

McCarthy becomes just the Cowboys ninth coach.  Impressive we you consider they are one of the NFL's oldest franchises.  Tom Landry was their first coach and most famous by far.  He coached the team from 1960 until 1988, when Jimmy Johnson took over.  Johnson lasted 5 seasons.  Since 1993 the Cowboys have had 6 coaches, not including McCarthy.  Garrett was the second longest tenured coach for the Cowboys behind Landry.

WILDCARD WEEKEND PREDICTIONS

The NFL Playoffs start today with the Wild Card Round.  The AFC plays two games today and the NFC plays two tomorrow.  It should be an interesting weekend of football.  Here's my predictions.


Buffalo at Houston:
The Buffalo Bills travel to Texas to take on the Houston Texans in what may turn out to be the closest game of the weekend.  Both teams are evenly matched but I think it's the QB's that decide this one.  Houston's Deshaun Watson will use his legs today and run the Texans into the next round of the playoffs.  Houston 27, Buffalo 23.


Tennessee vs. New England:
The Ryan Tannehill led Titans go in to Foxborough to take on The New England Patriots.  Many people are saying the dynasty is over and it begins its demise this year by not making the playoffs.  That may be true but it does not begin today.  Tannehill does not beat Tom Brady on his home turf in a playoff game.  That just does not happen.  New England 35, Tennessee 7.


Minnesota vs. New Orleans:
This is more than just a playoff game for both teams, its a rematch of one of the most memorable playoff games in recent memory.  This game will be a shootout but in the end I see the Saints prevailing.  New Orleans 42, Minnesota 38.


Seattle vs. Philadelphia
The Seattle Sea Hawks travel to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles.  Seattle is 11-5, but playing like they are 13-3.  Philadelphia is 9-7 but seems more like a 7-9 team.  They get to host the game because they won a weak NFC East.  Seattle will continue there dominating season and come away with a two score victory.  Seattle 24, Philadelphia 10.

2019 GURU AWARDS

We have made it to another year!  As we welcome in 2020 let's take a look back at 2019.  It was a better year for the Arizona teams.  Here are the Second Annual Guru Awards.  This year we have added a category for high school football.

Best Newcomer:
This was an easy choice, the best newcomer to Arizona sports hands down is Cardinals QB Kyler Murray.  He helped the Cardinals improve their win total from a year ago but most importantly he made the Cardinals worth talking about and watching again.  Murray has a bright future ahead of him and will win many more Guru Awards in the years to come.

Best Player:
I came very close to giving this award to Murray as well but I decided to pick a player that wasn’t expected to achieve so early in his tenure in Arizona.  The Guru Award for best player goes to ASU QB Jayden Daniels.  Daniel, just a freshman, threw for 2,943 yards and 17 Td’s with just 2 interceptions, all while leading ASU (8-5) to a Sun Bowl victory In El Paso Texas.

Best Coach:
The Guru Award for best coach goes to Arizona Basketball coach Sean Miller.  Arizona took a huge hit recruiting wise because of the scandal involving one of its assistant coaches.  Miller has claimed innocence the entire time and proved how good a coach he is when he took a very under talented team and led them to a winning season.  The season looked terrible on paper but it did wonders for recruiting and now Miller has Arizona back in the spotlight again.  They are currently ranked 25^th in the nation and sport a 10-3 record.

Best Team:
Let’s keep it in college basketball and award the best team to ASU basketball.  ASU made its second straight NCAA Tournament appearance in March winning the “First Four” game and advancing to the big dance.  They finished the season 23-11 and are off to a 9-3 start this season.

Biggest Disappointment:
The Guru Award goes to Arizona Cardinals General Manager Steve Keim.  Keim has missed on several free agent signings that have cost the Cardinals big time on the field, in particular on the defensive side of the ball.  Keim has not been the same since his DUI in the summer of 2018.  The success of rookie head coach and QB may be the only thing to save his job.  Or at least temporarily.

Biggest Surprise:
By far the biggest surprise in Arizona is the Phoenix Suns.  After finishing 19-63 last season they are off to a 13-21 start.  That is not the surprise, in fact that is not what the award is for.  The Guru Award for biggest surprise goes to center DeAndre Ayton.  Ayton was suspended one game in to the season for using a banned substance, a diuretic.  Ayton missed the next 25 games and has not had much of an impact since returning.  One has to wonder how good the Suns will be when he gets back to his old self.

 Best High School Moment:
This is a new category to the list.  But those of you that read the blog regularly know I cover high school football here in Arizona and could not resist adding it to the list.  This was a hard choice for me and it came down to two big stories and even though I can only chose one I felt they were both worth mentioning.  SO the Guru Award for Best High School Football Moments goes to the South Mountain Jaguars and the Chandler Wolves. 

South Mountain has a few mini stories that pushed it to the award.  They have twin co-head coaches that truly are in South Phoenix to help rebuild a community, and its working.  They were also a part of a docu-series done by the Arizona Republic, another first for the school.  They performed well on the field as well finishing 7-3 and just missing the playoffs.

The Guru Award for Best High School Football Moment also goes to the Chandler Wolves.  Chandler was one of six teams to be chosen for Arizona’s first ever Open Division Championship, putting the state’s best teams no matter the division in one playoff.  Chandler had to beat Chaparral and Salpointe Catholic just to get to national powerhouse Saguaro for the Open Tittle.  The game lived up to its hype and Chandler won 42-35.