The Making of a TItle Town (Pt.1)

If you happen to catch a Philadelphia sports fan in passerby, pinch them; if they're not already pinching themselves. While we may feel like we are in a dream, were are simply experiencing the euphoric feeling of being in a town that wants to win.

Friday afternoon the Eagles announced a 5-year $60 million dollar deal with cornerback Nnadmi Asomugha, the top rated free agent of the 2011 NFL off season. Nnamdi was highly pursued by the Jets, Cowboys, and Texans, but the Birds swooped in Friday and added the four time Pro-Bowler to what was already an impressive list of recent acquisitions (Jason Babin, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Vince Young, Cullen Jenkins). He joins Rodgers-Cromartie and Asante Samuel in a secondary that for now features three pro-bowl corners. Whether or not there will be room for all three come Pre-season opener August 11th remains to be seen. Asomugha will become a cornerstone for a defensive unit that has yearned for one since the departure of free safety Brian Dawkins.

Friday night, not to be outdone, the Phillies made some noise of their own, when they ended their "hunt" for a right-handed bat by grabbing Houston's Hunter Pence. In a trade that sent four prospects, including Jarred Cosart and Jonathan Singleton to Houston, the Phillies landed Pence with time to spare before the July 31st deadline. Pence joins the Phillies as the ninth ranked hitter in the National League, with a .308 average that will also be the best on the team. He will find a home in the fifth spot of the order, right behind Ryan Howard, who could certainly use Pence's All-Star protection. The Phillies have been discussing the idea of acquiring a right-handed bat since Jayson Werth signed his mega-deal with Washington this past off-season. The addition of Pence not only satisfies that long term need, but makes Carlos Ruiz the only Phillies starter who hasn't played in an MLB All-Star game.

Before the Phillies World Series title in 2008, the city of Philadelphia waited 100 seasons of big four sports for a Professional championship. This time, expect no drought.

JD

Has It Even Been Real?

Was Kevin Kolb's Eagles tenure the shortest proclaimed "Era" in franchise History? It is becoming safe to assume so. The Houston product looked promising in 2009, becoming the first QB to throw for 300 yards or more in his first two career starts, filling in for the injured Donovan McNabb. The following off season the Birds dealt McNabb to Washington, "The Kolb Era" began, and I sure hope you took pictures.

On Opening Sunday 2010, Kevin Kolb threw ten passes, completed five, and covered a total of 24 yards with his arm; the arm that Andy Reid tabbed as the future of Philadelphia football. With seven minutes left in the second quarter Kolb scrambled to his left to elude a Packers' third down blitz, and was chased down by All-Pro linebacker Clay Matthews before he could scamper out of bounds. Matthews mugged him from behind, slammed his head into the ground, and ran away with Kolb's starting role in his back pocket.

Kolb was shaken up, got up slow, and was later diagnosed with a concussion at half time. Michael Vick took the helm with the Birds in a hole and rallied them back in style, in what would later prove to be a losing effort. "The Kolb Era" was over as soon as it had begun. For the remainder of the season he would be successful in spot starts when Vick's injuries permitted him on the field. Regardless, Michael Vick reemerged as the play making Falcon of old, which would keep Kolb's helmet regularly on the shelf.

Thursday, as if Matthews' blow wasn't enough, the Eagles made the end of Kolb official, sending him to Arizona for Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a 2012 Second Round pick. Should the anticipated departure of the Birds' back-up QB upset Eagles fans? It's not phasing me. The Kolb era was not only overwhelmingly short, it virtually didn't exist. Kolb's future in Philadelphia seemed bright, and his future in a Cardinals uniform should be even brighter. A 2010 Week 1 sack, and the revival of one of football's most wanted, has steered Philadelphia football in a whole new direction. Kevin Kolb has an arm for the West Coast offense, Reid's offense, but that arm didn't, and never will, fit in Eagles history.

JD

Vance

Move aside Matt Stairs, a new Phillies folk hero is emerging in the City of Brotherly love. Characterized by his uncut frame, unkept hawk, and unwavering consistency, Vance Worley is throwing himself into the NL Rookie of the Year conversation just in the nick of time. Sporting Clark Kent glasses on his round face, opposition still searches for Worley's kryptonite, and the burning questions remains: Where in Ashburn's name did this guy come from?

Vance Worley started the year on the farm, and in the first two months of the season made the trip from Lehigh Valley to Philadelphia countless times. Sent down after allowing 12 hits and 5 earned runs (8 total) in a loss against the Mets on May 29th, Worley has made the most of his June call up, cementing himself into Philadelphia's historic rotation once and for all. The Phils have won the last seven times that he has taken the bump, beginning June 18th, and Worley himself has won five straight decisions, bringing his record to 7-1. Since his latest call up Worley has additionally dropped his ERA from 3.41 to 2.02, only allowing more than one earned run once in seven starts.

Next to Worley's astounding stats there is still no indication of where the right hander is from. Sacramento? Impossible. The 3rd round of the 2008 Amateur Draft? Hardly the story. I want to know where he gets his running fast ball, his veteran control, his militant demeanor, the stuff you just don't get from third round picks out of California's capital. Worley defies everything that is structured about the game of baseball. He baffled the Red Sox in late June, and only yielded three hits to the defending Champion Giants in a complete game win Tuesday night. Everything about Worley is exciting, energizing, refreshing, and in a sea of stars, his "averageness" somehow shines.

At 4:00 pm Tuesday afternoon I catch up with a friend in passerby. At the tail end of the conversation he tells me that he is "going to see Worley tonight." Not Utley, Howard, Rollins, or even the aces that lounge in the dugout, but Vance Worley. Where did this guy come from? It hardly matters, here is here now. Unscathed, undetected, and certainly unreal.

JD

The Hypothetical Ultimatum

As time has told, the Phillies 2011 four-headed monster of aces can be further sub-divided to two. With Roy Oswalt's recently injury, and Cole Hamels lack of years, Cliff Lee and Harold Leroy Halladay are left; the two men who are writing the script for possibly the most consistent, most dominant 1-2 punch in Baseball History. Halladay never throws a pitch that doesn't move, while Lee never throws a pitch out of sequence. Both pitchers have factory made rubber arms, never quivering in late inning situations, always waiting for a day off to take a pitch off. Roy Halladay just recently tabbed his 11th win joining Jair Jurrjens as the top of the National League, where he is also second in strike outs, and second in ERA. Cliff Lee, who was "Cliff Lee shaky" to begin the season, won all five of his June decisions, only allowing one measly run in the month, and capping it with three straight complete game shutouts that put his record at 9-5. Aside from their most probable trips to Chase Field for this year's All-Star game next week, both Halladay and Lee will continue to pile up mind blowing stats, while being neck and neck down the stretch (along with Hamels and Jurrjens) for this year's NL Cy Young Award. Now here is the hypothetical ultimatum; if both pitchers had their full rest, and one game decided the season, who would Charlie Manuel turn to?

JD

Drafting Jimmer

Much speculation has been surrounding the draft status of College Basketball folk legend Jimmer Fredette, and in anticipation of Thursday Night's Radio City Music Hall event I will offer my opinion on the matter. Regardless of my undeniable, and unconditional allegiance to the former BYU point guard, the answer to the Fredette draft puzzle is very simple. The closest form of basketball to the National Basketball Association is the NCAA. Jimmer Fredette, in all his glory, did nothing short of dominate College Basketball for two full years. He sliced up defenses nightly, posted astounding numbers, and rightfully coined a shooting range that was unimaginable prior to his appearance on the Mormon hardwood. Am I guaranteeing that Fredette will dominate the NBA, or even check out as half of what he was in college? Absolutely not. I am simply saying that NBA GM's have no reason not to take a shot with Fredette. His game may resemble that of those who have proven busts in the past, but his pure dominance in the NBA's tune up league is means for taking a draft day risk.

JD

Smirk Nowitzki

When mauled by Miami defenders in this year's NBA Finals, Dirk Nowitzki has graciously accepted the routine whistle and proceeded to the charity stripe with a goofy grin across his face. The Smirk. The hardwoods of L.A., Portland, Oklahoma City, Dallas, and most recently South Beach have all collaborated to create Nowitzki's nation wide playground this post season, where he has dropped jaws on the monkey bars, and thrown opponents off the swings. In 2006, Dwayne Wade's Heat shocked Nowitzki and crew, when they erased a 2-0 series deficit to earn the Naismith Trophy with four straight stunning wins. Five years later, Dirk has Dallas a game away from capturing the Title that Wade single handedly stole from them; memories that Nowitzki revisits in the worst of late night dreams.

A Championship for Dallas would be the first for the franchise which debuted in the 1980-81 season. If the Mavs can achieve this elusive greatness Sunday Night, many critics will credit the victory to Lebron James' lack of late game luster. While James' on court woes and media antics have frequently made headlines this series, Nowitzki's lights out shooting and acrobatic heroics will in the end conquer all. If the Mavericks win, Dirk Nowitzki will hoist the trophy on basketball's biggest stage, and you better bet that he will be smirking; a nuance he continues to coin with every defender whom he makes silly.

JD

Must Have Monta

Rumors have been circulating that a straight-up trade will send Andre Iguodala to the Golden State Warriors and bring Monta Ellis to Philadelphia. Since Allen Iverson left the South Philly hardwood some years ago now, the struggling Sixers have lacked the major component that every successful NBA team holds; a pure scorer. If the team can land Monta Ellis (who has averaged 20 points throughout his young career and around 25 in the past two seasons) they will insert a piece to a puzzle that has seen all too many "rebuilding" seasons. I have been a faithful Sixers fan ever since Allen Iverson lifted the team to a Finals birth in my first season as a fan, the pinnacle of my fan hood in 2001. I have no intentions of breaking the allegiance to my favorite basketball team in the near future, but if I have to watch Andre Iguodala heave up last second prayers with a defender who he is incapable of shaking off breathing down his neck, for a whole another season, I may take my love for the game somewhere else. Give me Monta Ellis; please give the faithful a scorer.

JD

Playing The Game

Baseball's ultimate "gamer" Chase Utley is back in the Phillies' lineup, and seems to be the current cure for what was looking like a long term slump for the club. Last night, the Phils won in fashion, with a 5-4 walk-off victory in the bottom of the 19th down in South Philadelphia. Highlights of the game included a game tying home run by Ryan Howard in the bottom of the 10th, five scoreless relief innings from Danys Baez (who usually is ousted before he records three outs), and most notably a scoreless top of the 19th from utility infielder Wilson Valdez; who joined the likes of George Herman Ruth as the only player to start in the infield and eventually tab the win on the mound. When Jimmy Rollins crossed home plate the clock above Ashbourne Alley was resting its hands right around 1:30 AM. With a day game later "that day," Manuel inserted Michael Martinez, Dane Sardinha, and Wilson Valdez into the starting lineup. The offense posted 10 runs, behind two hits and three RBI's from one Cliff Lee, and a three-run homer from the surging Raul Ibanez. When Cliff's line was closed in the 8th, the Phils held a 10-4 lead thanks to Chase Utley's first home run of the season; didn't keep the fans waiting too long. Jose Contreras made his first appearance off the DL and set the Reds down 1-2-3 in the ninth and the Fightin Phils pranced away with another series win in their back pocket. It seems to all be clicking right about now, and all the men in red are doing, is simply playing the game.

JD

Chasing Answers

Even though our hometown Phils are head and shoulders above the whole National League entering play Monday night, the night to night favorites haven't been exactly cruising. I have been on the success train with the Phils since play began on April 1st, and am wondering if I am the only fan who finds it painful to watch our lineup hit? Just a month and a half into the season the absence of Chase Utley has been magnified with every blank frame that the club posts in the box score each night. As the Phillies continue to lean on their stellar starting staff for consistent production, the team, front office, and fan base yearns for their prized second basemen more than ever. Surprisingly enough, the answers to the Phillies offensive woes don't only rest on the DL, but in their slumping corner outfield positions, who should be replaced even before we get "The Man" back.

As of Sunday May 15th, Wilson Valdez's .239 average has made him a virtual hole amidst the Phils linep, while his unofficial platoon partner Pete Orr's posting of .259 in limited at-bats hardly helps the cause. It is easy to say that the return of Chase Utley, in what will hopefully be in the near future, will quickly cure the offensive problems that have presented themselves so far this season. Aside from the Utley injury-saga, I will openly say that I am losing faith in "doing the right thing," playing a guy because he "deserves" the spot, or because he has "earned it" with some set of statistics that we just don't see. Charlie Manuel will ramble on about the lineup spot that he owes to 57 year-old vet Raul Ibanez, or career bench player Ben Francisco who hits with a cheese grater stick. The more John Mayberry Jr. and Ross Gload produce when called upon, the more I lose faith in Charlie's philosophy; which may have won us games in the past, but is losing us games now.

JD

The Best Friends: The Public Enemies

Is the constant ESPN coverage on the long lasting Lebron-D-Wade friendship supposed to make us feel better about the events that ensued last summer? Frankly, Lebron's announcement show, the arrival party for the big three in Miami, and the talk of "6 championships" still all makes me want to puke. The Miami Heat have hit their stride, and steamrolled both the 76er's and Boston Celtics to prove so. There are two hopes left to stop the the Miami Thrice from winning their first championship in their first year together, and that is the Chicago Bulls and a Western Conference representative in June. I would want to see nothing more than a Miami fall this post-season, which would trigger a drama-filled off-season for Lebron, Wade, Bosh, and most importantly baby coach Eric Spoelstra. There are talks of Dwight Howard moving to LA, or even Chris Paul finding a home in The Big Apple. If the Bulls or a Western Conference opponent can hold off the Heat, the inspired players around the league can form their own power houses this coming summer, and make sure Lebron will forever remain "ring-less."

JD

The Fab Five (2011 MLB Model)

If I tried "The Fantastic Four," "Reign of Terror," or even "Aces Wild," I still would have failed to capture a more cliche and unoriginal title than what I put at the top of this post. In actuality, "The Fantastic Four" or "Aces Wild" hardly suffices for the 2011 Philadelphia Phillies, who are not only receiving solid outings from their cast of aces, but from average Joe Blanton, the "five man" at the bottom of their legendary rotation. As of now, the facts of the matter are that the Phils' offense is already sputtering and Chase Utley's return is still far out of reach. Despite the injuries and evident offensive slumps that the club has already faced in the 2011 season, the starting pitching has been unwavering, lifting the Phils to an MLB-best .714 winning percentage through the first three weeks of the season. As the marathon professional baseball season rolls on for the Phils tonight in Arizona, I just wanted to give four cheers to the League's best starting pitching; sorry Joe Blanton, let's make that five.

JD

To Beat The Heat

The Sixers have started the 2011 NBA post season in a very deep hole; not only standing two games away from elimination but staring down three of the finest players the league has to offer. To beat the Heat, the Sixers need to accept that Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade, and Lebron James are simply going to "get theirs." These stars operate in a way that no matter how their game goes they will be posting double doubles, twenty plus, or even a mere double digits in the box score at the end of the night. To beat them, you have to almost let them. On defense, the Sixers have aggressively double teamed James, Wade, or Bosh at almost ever opportunity, most regularly late in the shot clock. This has opened up the gates for Mario Chalmers, James Jones, and Mike Bibby, to hoist threes without a Sixer in their way for miles. On many occasions Miami's snipers have failed to make the Sixers pay for their impulsive double team defense, and if that trend continues, you win Doug Collins. But if they start to shoot like we all know they can, you will have to start trusting your one on one defenders, remembering that Miami's big three will get theirs. On the offensive end, there are two things that will get the train moving. Whoever Mike Bibby is defending whether it be Jrue Holiday, Lou Williams, or Jodi Meeks, needs to create in space, and make Miami help. To open up the middle for the team's slashers, constantly use Spencer Hawes or Thaddeus Young to force Miami's shot blockers (Ilgausaks and Joel Anthony) to defend the perimeter. Miami is hot, and if they hit the stride the NBA has been waiting for all season, things are not promising for Philadelphia. But they are young, and youth brings heart and resilience. If anyone can climb out of a 2-0 hole against the star-studded Heat, it's the Sixers.

JD

An Ode to Jimmer: I'm Sorry

This March, the NCAA's Butler (University) did not cater to their Major Conference opponents, but simply showed them to the door one by one. Monday Night, UCONN weathered the Mid-Major storm when they defeated the Bulldogs for Jim Calhoun's third title since 1999. In one of the worst Championship games in NCAA history, the Huskies took down Butler who shot less than 20 percent from the field and posted a miniscule two points in the paint. Those facts alone will tell you why this year's Championship game is hardly the topic of this article. As the College Basketball season concludes it would make sense to congratulate the winning team and commemorate this year's cinderella story for their hard fight; but sense is not something I am trying to make. Jimmer Fredette was announced the Associated Press Player of the Year earlier last week, and in all his greatness took the award right out of Kemba Walker's hands. I will not only take this annual opportunity to pay #32 the respect he deserves, but also contemplate on what could have been. A run in with the "BYU Law" changed the complexity of Jimmer's supporting cast, a whole tournament region, and the overall outcome of the NCAA season.

After violating the school's "no sex" policy, forward Brandon Davies was kicked off the BYU basketball team for the remainder of the 2010-11 season, just prior to the Mountain West Tournament. With Davies gone, it would not be his average 11 points 6 rebounds that the Cougars would miss, but rather his big body on defense, and his role as the the team's "number 2" on offense. Aside from Davies, BYU was composed of almost all shooters, with their pair of 6'8'' forwards Noah Hartsock and Stephen Rogers being no exception. Jimmer and the boys lost to San Diego State in their Conference final and the affects of Davies' departure were evident. They had stripped Jimmer of his wing man and instantly made him the lone Cougar boarding the March Madness train; while the rest of his running mates took to the highway.

Let's get straight to the point and address I highly feasible hypothetical situation. Had Brandon Davies remained on the BYU roster for the entirety of the Mountain West and NCAA Tournaments, the Cougars would have been Conference and National Champions; no questions asked, and here is where a big apology is due. Jimmer Fredette you were robbed, robbed of a fair chance to achieve what every College Basketball player dreams of, and the saddest part is, you greatly deserved it. You were one of the most prolific scorers in the history of College Basketball, and had you had that one golden chance you would have delivered and put the icing on one of the most decorated Senior seasons of all time. Whether it was BYU's radical strictness, or Brandon Davies' selfish carelessness, nothing can overshadow what you accomplished in your collegiate years, and even without a Championship your legacy shines. Had you the chance to say one thing as you depart from the College Basketball world, I know just what you'd say, and since you are too classy to do so Ill say it for you: You were lucky Kemba, oh you were so so lucky.

JD

MLB Preview 2011

This time each year I highly anticipate not only the start of my beloved Philadelphia Phillies, but for the start of my beloved game of baseball on all levels. I often revert back to my memorization of "Classic" Phillies' lineups as a wee six-year old, and conclusively credit my love for sports to America's beautiful Past Time. As far as the MLB season goes, I annually ease into it, use the first couple months as an experimentation period as I slowly get my bearings on the league I oh so love. However, as my knowledge and perception of the game matures, I know that it is not the heat of July or the outskirts of September that define a baseball season, but each game, each inning, and each pitch. Later this week, thirty journeys begin. Thirty teams, with thirty nations behind them cross their fingers and pray; as the next installment of Major League Baseball history, seeps into our lives.

Power Rankings

1. Boston Red Sox

Key Additions: Bobby Jenks, Dan Wheeler, Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford

Key Losses: Adrian Beltre, Mike Lowell, Victor Martinez, Bill Hall

Putting all evident "chemistry obstacles" aside, Boston had the best off season, and had the best returning team to compliment it. Both Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford are super star vets, who together would put the Royals in contention with their combination of proven power and seasoned speed. Bobby Jenks is a major sign for the Red Sox as well, barring that he will provide help for Boston's slumping All-Star closer Jonathan Papelbon. The only question for this reemerging power house is their starting staff. Jon Lester, John Lackey, Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, and Clay Buchholz, looks good right? In recent years, "looking good" on paper has only put money in these players' pockets; not rings on their fingers.

2. San Francisco Giants

Key Additions: Miguel Tejada, Jeff Suppan

Key Losses: Edgar Renteria, Juan Uribe

Regardless of Edgar Renteria and Juan Uribe, who did play their own unique role for the Giants last season, the World Champions have seemingly lost nothing, which makes them hard to pick against. The Giants have three keys to success, dynamite pitching, lineup depth, and a lights out closer. Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathan Sanchez are as good as a rotation trio comes(hold the phone on Philadelphia), and Zito and Bumgarner aren't too shabby at the back end. The Giants sport a cast of outfield options that includes Andres Torres, Aaron Rowand, Mark Derosa, Pat Burrell,Cody Ross, and Nate Schierholtz, who are grounded by infield stars Buster Posey and Aubrey Huff. Then the last key piece, the beard, Brian Wilson. The Yankees won for so many years because they knew that when they had a lead in the eighth or ninth the game was virtually over. The Giants are molding into a team that has that luxury.

3. Philadelphia Phillies

Key Additions: Cliff Lee, Delwyn Young

Key Losses: Jayson Werth, Chad Durbin

Dare I jinx my Phillies anymore, and say that we have the best pitching in MLB history? Being tagged as such an impeccable staff when the club signed Cliff Lee for his second Philly tenure this off-season provides one major problem; the challenge of "living up to the hype." However, that is hardly what Philadelphia has to focus on, and the question marks we have all over our offense and bullpen is why I could not place the boys at one or two. No Utley, no Lidge to start the season. Our best righty gone from last year, and no one signed to take his place. Is Wilson Valdez the answer at second? Is Ben Francisco ready to not only fill the void in right field but in our lineup as well? We can only pray ... so let's all pray.

4. Texas Rangers

Key Additions: Yorvit Torrealba, Arthur Rhodes, Brandon Webb, Mike Napoli, Dave Bush, Adrian Beltre

Key Losses: Vladimir Guerrero, Bengie Molina, Jorge Cantu, Cliff Lee, Frank Francisco

The reigning AL Champions lost their ace in Cliff Lee to free agency, but did manage to strengthen their bullpen with Arthur Rhodes and deepen their staff with Dave Bush and Brandon Webb. For Texas, their success rises and falls with their pitching, because for them, offense is a sheer luxury. If their pitching can deliver, AL MVP Josh Hamilton and the rest of the gang will take it from there, and Texas could be looking at another magical run.

5. Milwaukee Brewers

Key Additions: Shawn Marcum, Zack Greinke, Yuniesky Betancourt, Takashi Saito

Key Losses: Dave Bush, Trevor Hoffman, Doug Davis, Todd Coffey, Carlos Villanueva, Alcides Escobar

When the Brewers signed Zack Greinke this off-season, they put him next to Yovani Gallardo and instantly made themselves NL Central contenders. When the Brewers later signed Shawn Marcum, they complimented their new duo with a good young arm, and instantly made themselves NL contenders. Pitching, as for many clubs, has been the obstacle for the Brew Crew in recent seasons. With Ryan Braun, Prince Fielder, Casey McGhee and Corey Hart in their lineup, runs have hardly been a rarity, while quality starts certainly have. Greinke, Marcum, and Gallardo will fuel an engine that has been sputtering since Ben Sheets fell victim to career altering injuries years ago.

6. Chicago White Sox

Key Additions: Adam Dunn, Lastings Milledge

Key Losses: Freddy Garcia, Andruw Jones, J.J Putz, Manny Ramirez, Bobby Jenks

Adam Dunn has finally moved to a contender, and now we will all see what he is truly capable of. The South Side Sox arguably have the most power in the league, with Konerko, Dunn, Rios, and Quentin; and with a division that doesn't sport great pitching, it could just be a recipe for disaster. Their pitching staff, headed by mark Buerhle, is as experienced as they come, and that can take a team a long way.

7. New York Yankees

Key Additions: Russell Martin, Pedro Feliciano, Rafael Soriano, Andruw Jones, Mark Prior

Key Losses: Chad Gaudin, Javier Vazquez, Nick Johnson, Alfredo Aceves

This was a nightmare of an off-season for Cashman and Steinbrenner, who not only lost Cliff Lee to Philadelphia, but only managed to sign the likes of Russell Martin, Raf Soriano, and others who don't deserve to be noted. The back end of the Yankees pitching staff is, wait for it, Ivan Nova and Freddy Garcia; just the wait until they meet the New York Post. Sadly, star power keeps the Yanks in the top ten, that's just the way it is. On the bright side, they are evidently declining.

8. Atlanta Braves

Key Additions: Scott Linebrink, George Sherrill, Dan Uggla

Key Losses: Derek Lee, Troy Glaus, Matt Diaz, Rick Ankiel, Omar Infante

The Braves lost a lot in their line up this season, but managed to obtain Second base slugger Dan Uggla, and maintain their steady starting staff. Jason Heyward and Freddie Freeman create the perfect balance of youth and experience alongside vets Chipper Jones and Alex Gonzalez, a good recipe for a barrage of runs in Atlanta this season.

9. Minnesota Twins

Key Additions: Tsuyoshi Nishioka

Key Losses: Jon Rauch, Orlando Hudson, Brian Fuentes, Matt Guerrier, Nick Punto, J.J Hardy

Don't be fooled by the number of key losses the Twins sustained this off-season, they can and will win baseball games barring the health of the three J's. Justin Morneau, Joe Mauer, and Joe Nathan have been on and off the disabled list in the last few years and this team has still managed to get to the post season. This season, it is likely that they will all be healthy at the same time, and with Carl Pavano and Francisco Liriano proving their worth at the forefront of their rotation, the sky is the limit for Minnesota.

10. Colorado Rockies

Key Additons: Jose Lopez, Ty Wigginton, Matt Lindstrom

Key Losses: Joe Beimel, Jeff Francis, Clint Barmes, Manny Delcarmen

Top ten generous for the Rockies? Something about this ball club always surprises everyone, so I don't think it is generous at all. Colorado strengthened their infield by signing Jose Lopez and their bullpen by signing Matt Lindstrom. Fueled by star power in 2010, Colorado prays that Tulo, Car-Go, and Ubaldo still have some left in the tank for another run at the playoffs. If those who follow Jimenez in the rotation (Hammel, De la Rosa, Cook, Chacin) can keep the Rocks in games, Colorado's late game offense will flourish and produce wins.

11. St. Louis Cardinals

Key Additions: Ryan Theriot, Lance Berkman, Nick Punto, Gerald Laird,

Key Losses: Randy Winn, Brad Penny, Pedro Feliz, Brenda Ryan

Many experts have the Cardinals dropping a long way this season, but I still have confidence in their lineup that sports Matt Holiday, Albert Pujols, and Lance Berkman, and in their staff despite the loss of Adam Wainwright for the season. Chris Carpenter is the key for the Cards this season. Pujols, along with his pals will put runs on the board, and if Carpenter can provide the club with a consistent ace, which would have been Wainwright, things could go well in St. Louis.

12. Cincinnati Reds

Key Additions: Dontrelle Willis, Edgar Renteria, Fred Lewis

Key Losses: Orlando Cabrera, Ramon Hernandez, Aaron Harang, Arthur Rhodes

Any time a team has the league MVP returning it is hard to count them out completely, however I do not see the Reds coming close to the success they achieved last season. Their pitching will not be as strong, and neither will their inconsistent lineup that will have cooled off during the long off season. The player to watch is Aroldis Chapman, this time for real, because he is on the club from opening day, and is ready to rock the league with his radar shattering speed.

13. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Key Additions: Scott Downs, Hisanori Takahashi
Key Losses: Scott Shields, Hideki Matsui, Mike Napoli, Juan Rivera

Like the Cardinals, many experts are counting the Angels out this season. Last season, both their lineup and pitching staff looked magnificent on paper; this year, it is no different, but the results should be. Kendry Morales is back from his freak accident injury, and Vernon Wells has found a new home in left field in Anaheim. Rookie Peter Bourjos will provide a spark amidst an "older" lineup, with his eye popping speed and instant play-making ability in Center Field. Scott Kazmir pitching to his potential and posting a solid season certainly wouldn't hurt, as Jered Weaver needs help in the starting rotation.

14. Florida Marlins

Key Additions: Omar Infante, John Buck, Javier Vazquez

Key Losses: Cameron Maybin, Dan Uggla, Ronny Paulino

The Marlins are going to be that surprise team this year that sneaks up on every team that they play. Their lineup is the best combination of "young and good" in the league, with Hanley Ramirez, Mike Stanton, Gaby Sanchez, Lew Morrison, and former rookie of the year Chris Coghlan. Josh Johnson will make a run at the NL Cy Young Award, and lead a rotation with grave potential, with new running mate Javier Vazquez.

15. Detroit Tigers

Key Additions: Victor Martinez, Brad Penny

Key Losses: Jeremy Bonderman, Jonny Damon, Armando Galarraga

The Tigers were beginning to slip in recent years, but the signing of Victor Martinez keeps them in the "better half" of the league. Their aging lineup only has a few good years left, but they will be grounded by young gun Austin Jackson who will continue to improve in 2011. Behind Justin Verlander, proven to be one of the best pitchers in the American League, the Tigers will make a run at the AL Central but will fall significantly short; but the season will definitely be a progressive one.

16. Tampa Bay Rays

Key Additions: Sam Fuld, Kyle Farnsworth, Manny Ramirez, Jonny Damon, Felipe Lopez, Casey Kotchman

Key Losses: Carlos Pena, Rafael Soriano, Grant Balfour, Carl Crawford, Brad Hawpe, Chadd Qualls, Jason Bartlett, Matt Garza

The Rays, who peaked with their World Series run in '08, are already on the serious down slope with the departure of glue man Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena, Matt Garza, Jason Bartlett, and more. The Rays signed former Red Sox teammates Manny Ramirez and Johny Damon, and if history repeats itself, this will provide more problems than positives.

17. Chicago Cubs

Key Additions: Carlos Pena, Matt Garza, Kerry Wood, Todd Wellemayer

Key Losses: Sam Fuld

This is not the Cubs year, sorry Chicago, but they are definitely looking better. Former Rays Matt Garza and Carlos Pena will provide both pitching and offense help, which last year's Cubs team can badly use. With a new skip in town, let's call it a new year for the Cubs, after all it is. Starting now I see the Cubbies moving forward; god bless you faithful Chicago fans.

18. Baltimore Orioles

Key Additions: Mark Reynolds, J.J Hardy, Derek Lee, Kevin Gregg, Randy Winn, Jusin Duchscherer, Vladimir Guerrero

Key Losses: Ty Wigginton, Kevin Millwood, Corey Patterson, David Hernandez

Let's just ignore Baltimore's pitching for right now. The Orioles' front office went out this off-season and created an offensive juggernaut, signing Derek Lee, J.J. Hardy, Mark Reynolds, and Vlad Guerrero, while keeping Adam Jones, Nick Markakis, Luke Scott, and Brian Roberts. Can the dismal Baltimore pitching contend in the AL East? Hardly. Will their offense create fireworks at Camden Yards this year? It seems so.

19. Oakland Athletics

Key Additions: David Dejesus, Josh Willingham, Hideki Matsui, Rich Harden, Grant Balfour, Brian Fuentes

Key Losses: Eric Chavez, Ben Sheets, Justin Duchscherer, Vin Mazzaro, Rajai Davis, Jack Cust

I am not as high on Oakland as the rest of the baseball world is, but I do think they are making great strides toward contending in not only their division but also the AL. They boosted their power hitting by adding Willingham and Matsui, their staff with Rich Harden, and their bullpen with Grant Balfour and Brian Fuentes. Billy Beane continues to masterfully piece together a baseball team who has a bright future, however their sub par lineup has them lined up for a sub par season.

20. Los Angeles Dodgers

Key Additions: Jon Garland, Juan Uribe, Matt Guerrier, Dioneer Navarro

Key Losses: Russell Martin, George Sherrill, Ryan Theriot

After two straight NLCS losses to the Philadelphia Phillies in '08 and '09, the Dodgers missed the playoffs last year; get ready for a long string of bad seasons LA. With young talent as a rarity the Dodgers aren't getting any younger, even if Clayton Kershaw and Andre Ethier beg to differ.

21. San Diego Padres

Key Additions: Aaron Harang, Jason Bartlett, Brad Hawpe, Orlando Hudson, Jorge Cantu, Chad Qualls

Key Losses: Adrian Gonzalez, Jon Garland, Chris Young, Miguel Tejada, David Eckstein, Scott Hairston

After being the surprise team of 2010, the Padres made great moves to help their offense this off season and even boosted their starting rotation with the experienced Aaron Harang. However, the departure of super star Adrian Gonzalez will be hard for the Padres to get over. For many years Gonzalez was the whole San Diego organization; without him, the club will need time to recuperate.

22. Seattle Mariners

Key Additions: Jack Cust, Brendan Ryan, Adam Kennedy, Miguel Olivo, Manny Delcarmen

Key Losses: Russell Branyan, Casey Kotchman, Jose Lopez, Rob Johnson

When King Felix is on the hill Seattle is as good as they come. When he isn't they give a dismal display of America's Past Time. On another sad note; Ichiro Suzuki, Seattle's hero, isn't getting any younger.

23. Toronto Blue Jays

Key Additions: Rajai Davis, Carlos Villanueva, Octavio Dotel, Frank Francisco, Juan Rivera

Key Losses: Lyle Overbay, Scott Downs, Shawn Marcum, John Buck, Kevin Gregg

Jose Bautista stayed in Toronto and will make us wonder why we made such a big deal out of his status this off season. After a grid lock of an off season that saw mediocre players come to and leave Toronto, the Blue Jays will remain in the bottom half of the AL East; their spring, summer, and fall home.

24. New York Mets
Key Additions: Ronny Paulino, Taylor Tankersley, Chris Young

Key Losses: Fernando Tatis, Pedro Feliciano, John Maine

Any chance I get to make fun of the charity case New York Mets just brightens my day, and this MLB Preview is no exception. If the injury prone Mets can stay healthy they could be decent, but its doubtful.

25. Houston Astros

Key Additions: Clint Barmes, Bill Hall

Key Losses: Felipe Paulino, Matt Lindstrom

The Astros didn't do much to boost their league status this off season, and will be in a basement battle with the Pirates from Opening Day. Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt have finally both left and this means that Astros can start anew. Estimated time of arrival on the success train, 2015.

26. Arizona Diamondbacks

Key Additions: Zach Duke, David Hernandez, Micah Owings, Armando Galarraga, Russell Branyan

Key Losses: Mark Reynolds, Adam Laroche, Brandon Webb, Rodrigo Lopez

In a calendar year the D'Backs have lost the majority of their hope, which was in the form of Dan Haren, a healthy Brandon Webb, and slugger Mark Reynolds. Zach Duke, Micah Owings, and Armando Galarraga are mediocre pitching pick ups, who are far from what the club needs.

27. Washington Nationals

Key Additions: Jayson Werth, Chad Gaudin, Rick Ankiel, Adam Laroche

Key Losses: Adam Dunn, Adam Kennedy, Willie Harris

Some Phillies fans have called Jayson Werth a sell out, a traitor, and other harmless names of the sort. I simply feel bad for Werth. I liked the guy, and he is going to be in a Nationals uniform for seven years. He will be the first to prove that D.C. is where careers go to die.

28. Pittsburgh Pirates

Key Additions: Kyle Overbay, Scott Olsen, Matt Diaz, Garrett Atkins

Key Losses: Chan Ho Park, Andy Laroche, Delwyn Young, Lastings Milledge

If the Pirates can go through the whole season without trading Andrew McCutchen for sub par pitching prospects, it will be a successful year in the eyes of their fans, who have seen Jason Bay, Nate McLouth, and Xavier Nady part from Pittsburgh for next to nothing in years past.

29. Cleveland Indians

Key Additions: Jack Hannahan, Austin Kearns, Orlando Cabrera
Key Losses: None

The Indians are as rough a team as you'll see if you get a chance to catch them on TV. However, that won't be easy.

30. Kansas City Royals

Key Additions: Jeff Francoeur, Melky Cabrera, Alcidea Escobar, Jeff Francis, Pedro Feliz

Key Losses: Zach Greinke, David Dejesus, Brian Bannister

Zach Greinke left Kansas City for Milwaukee this off-season; their dignity has been missing ever since.

Division and Playoff Predictions

NL East

1. Philadelphia Phillies

2. Atlanta Braves

3. Florida Marlins

4. New York Mets

5. Washington Nationals

NL Central

1. Milwaukee Brewers

2. St. Louis Cardinals

3. Chicago Cubs

4. Cincinnati Reds

5. Pittsburgh Pirates

6. Houston Astros

NL West

1. San Francisco Giants

2. Colorado Rockies

3. Los Angeles Dodgers

4. San Diego Padres

5. Arizona Diamondbacks

NL Wild Card- Atlanta Braves

AL East

1. Boston Red Sox

2. New York Yankees

3. Tampa Bay Rays

4. Baltimore Orioles

5. Toronto Blue Jays

AL Central

1. Chicago White Sox

2. Minnesota Twins

3. Detroit Tigers

4. Cleveland Indians

5. Kansas City Royals

AL West

1. Texas Rangers

2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

3. Oakland Athletics

4. Seattle Mariners

AL Wild Card-New York Yankees

NLDS-

Philadelphia Phillies beat Milwaukee Brewers

Atlanta Braves beat San Francisco Giants

ALDS-

Boston Red Sox beat Chicago White Sox

Texas Rangers beat New York Yankees

NLCS-

Philadelphia Phillies beat Atlanta Braves

ALCS-

Boston Red Sox beat Texas Rangers

World Series-

Boston Red Sox beat Philadelphia Phillies

JD

Lone Ranger

On the outskirts of the 2011 NCAA March Madness Tournament the picture seemed very clear; the number ones were seemingly unbeatable. Since Mid-March and the departure of the craziest flight of the sports year, a drastic turn of events has tagged this year's top seeds as anything but invincible. However, one program still holds the torch. The Pitt Panthers fell to Butler in a second round thriller, and in the Sweet Sixteen Brandon Knight sent Ohio State packing with a jumper in the final shot clock, while Arizona upended Duke behind a stellar performance by Sophomore forward Derrick Williams. Last night, with Duke and Pitt already watching at home, and Ohio State on the see-saw with UK, those in favor of Major Conference Supremacy in College Basketball, were allowed exhale as Kansas surgically routed 12 seed Richmond. Kansas is the lone ranger, the only team left that can prove that only 68 teams are needed to play in March because prominence will conquer all. With a field of 96 on the horizon, teams like Virginia Commonwealth (11th seed, CAA) and Butler (8th seed, Horizon League) prove that more mid-major teams deserve a chance to play on the NCAA's biggest stage. 68 is just fine; so prove it Kansas.

JD

Kyrptonite

Throughout his career, Phillies second basemen Chase Utley has played through a majority of his injuries, regardless of their magnitude. This off-season, Philadelphia fans are jogged by both his evident statistical decline in the last few seasons, and a knee injury that has him listed as "out indefinitely." As the 2011 season quickly approaches I can only look at Chase Utley, who at once seemed invincible, as a man who's days are numbered.

Chase Utley has yet to suit up for a Grapefruit League Spring Training game and ultimately has two options as he moves forward towards the 2011 season. One, he plays through an injury that has been classified as extremely serious and extremely painful, or two, he undergoes surgery that will sideline him for the entirety of the upcoming season. In the past two seasons Utley has failed to eclipse 100 rbi's and 175 hits, two major statistical consistencies throughout his career; and in 2010 only hit 16 home runs in 115 games. Utley's prime is rapidly slipping away from him, and to take surgery and miss what could be one of the last "good" years of his career, seems uncharacteristic of a guy who has been called baseball's biggest "gamer" by the likes of Peter Gammons, Buster Olney, and Tim Kurkjian. Despite the grave pain Utley could experience this season, his time is now, and deleting this year from his career, could just about end it.

JD

Life...And Death, After Football

Last week, four-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl Champion Dave Duerson took his own life, when he shot himself in the chest with a shot gun. Duerson who filed for bankruptcy in 2010, saw his multimillion dollar food business collapse, and went through a divorce that led to his ex-wife suing him for his Super Bowl Rings and NFL Man of the Year Trophy. Before shooting himself in the heart, Duerson's dying wish was for his brain to be examined for any damage it could have sustained on the football field; and just like that, all of the fines for helmet to helmet hits during the 2010-11 season got put into perspective. The tragic story of Dave Duerson's suicidal death can probably be credited to his descending life, but will always be attached to the undeniable brutality of professional football. I salute Dave Duerson's relentless battle, and hope that his dying wish will pave the way for a safer game than what we have come to know. There is life after football for our cherished athletes, and in this case, there is premature death.

JD

Smells Like Spring

The NFL lockout, NBA All-Star Weekend, and any other significant events in the world of sports all get put aside when the Fightin' Phils report to Clearwater, Florida. While I could get in line and harp on what is gearing up to be the greatest pitching staff of all-time, I'd rather talk concerns than luxuries; as a devout fan, it's simply my job.

Following the club's loss to San Francisco in the NLCS last October, Phils GM Reuben Amaro Jr. embarked on the 2010-11 off-season expressing the bull pen as his number one priority. As pitchers and catchers report, Amaro has made no major changes to a pen that still provides as much uncertainty as the Pennsylvania Power Ball. The most significant transaction was the departure of right-hander Chad Durbin who threw the most innings out of the pen for the Phils last season. Losing the work horse of the bunch certainly won't make 2011 any brighter for the boys in relief.

Reports have been repeatedly saying that the club has plans to deal fifth starter Joe Blanton for a third outfielder/right-handed bat. Since all-star Jayson Werth took his talents to Washington this off-season, Philly's lefty-dominated lineup has been left "righty-less," which will provide many obstacles in the upcoming season. With the roster they have right now the team has a few options, them being, start Ben Francisco, or platoon him with either Ross Gload or blue chip outfielder Dominic Brown. Another case where Reuben Amaro Jr. failed to assess a major off-season need, now has the club scrambling for answers just weeks away from Opening Day.

Cliff Lee is a Phillie again, and it not only gives us one of the best rotations of all time, but a good bet for a parade down Broad Street come fall. However, while Amaro's big moves have made him a successful GM for the majority of local fans, his inability to add smaller pieces to the puzzle still has me asking questions. Can we win? Absolutely. But could we flop? Just maybe.

JD

Andy, You're a Star

Andy, You're a Star. The Killers said it on their 2004 album "Hot Fuss," and if there is any sense in the World of Sports so will the MLB Hall of Fame ballot in years to come. Andy Pettitte, a pure winner on the mound, raises two huge questions amidst his personal Hall of Fame debate: How do we measure success, and, how quick can we forget a steroid scandal that rocked the baseball world?

First question: how do we, or how should we, measure success on a baseball mound. Andy Pettitte has never won a Cy Young Award and never was the ace of a staff. Mediocre? Hardly. His 240-138 career record gives him the most wins of any lefty in his 13 active seasons, and is complimented by two 20-win seasons, and 19 Post-season victories; the most in MLB history. Would it be significant to also mention his 5 World Series rings? Andy Pettitte doesn't have the "accolades" that some pitching icons may retire with, but is a clear cut winner, and was a sure bet for a victory on all stages throughout his career.

Question two: how quick can we forget the steroids era, especially when it pertains to Hall of Fame hopefuls. Andy Pettitte, along side Roger Clemens, was one of the hurlers who highlighted the Mitchell Report in 2007. Regardless, the "steroid-era" is touchy for all Hall of Fame voters, but should not be counted against pitchers or hitters; they all juiced, and by all I mean that at the end of the day the playing field was just about even. There are a number of voters that have publicly stated that they refuse to punch in for anyone found guilty of substance abuse. Irrationally, they plan to wipe the "steroid-era" from baseball's history, and are against giving credit where credit is due. It will always be a dark period for the game, but Pettitte, among others, still played every day, and shined while doing it.

Andy Pettitte is a Hall of Famer, and I only write this because I can anticipate those who will say he is not, and some who will even decide that he is far from it. In the face of adversity, Pettitte's name will carry the weight of success and sheer gamesmanship that ultimately sets him apart. A fierce competitor who's time should come in five years, when he walks into Cooperstown on his first and only ballot.

JD

Growing Pains

The 19-25 Sixers are nothing short of electrifying but in return as immature as they come. In the month of January the Sixers have had some serious ups, beating Chicago 105-99, losing by one to Orlando in overtime and winning three straight to match their longest streak of the season. This team is growing up before our very eyes, and with that comes growing pains. Last night at the Wells Fargo Center, the Sixers held a 21 point lead in the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies; and eleven fourth quarter turnovers later, their three game streak was snapped by a 99-94 loss. Doug Collins coaches one of the most dangerous sub .500 team in recent years, yet the hair left on his head is getting grayer by the second. This team can run, shoot, play defense, get a crowd on their feet, and seemingly stick with any team in the league. Next, they need to get over the temptation of flat out blowing games.

Three keys to late game victory:

1. Where is Spencer Hawes?

Doug Collins starts his 7 foot Center, the right move; but then shoves him to the back of the bench for the whole of every fourth quarter, the wrong move. I understand his philosophy that running Young and Brand in the front court gives the Sixers the opportunity to push the game tempo at will, however, some teams have centers that Elton Brand just can't get guard. Hawes is our biggest body, our surest bet to lower the probability of second chance buckets for the opponent. Those second chance put backs can be the difference in a close game, and Hawes' ability to stretch the floor and pass in the high post also, doesn't hurt on the offensive end. Sometimes down the stretch, you need your starting center.

2. Trust the Half Court

When you have a lead sometimes you need to abandon the running game, and for this team that is a very scary thought. Trust your half court offense Sixers! Sometimes you have to run some clock, use the pick and roll instead of the alley-oop, the mid range jumper instead of the high flying dunk. When leading late in a game the last thing you want is a free for all scramble. When engaged in one, the game is up for grabs. The Sixers need to slow the game down late to allow themselves to dictate the tempo, and ultimately the final results.

3. Defend the Perimeter (And don't foul)

Twice against the Orlando Magic the Sixers fouled a three point shooter, which resulted in two 4-point plays. They lost that game by 2 in OT and both 4-point plays were obviously what did them in, presenting a serious defensive obstacle; maturity. The Sixers have a plethora of quick perimeter defenders, but having them, and having them deliver, are two very different things. Late game defense falls on the guards, in transition, and in defending the perimeter in the half court. When the Sixers lose, it is evident that their guards fail to do so.

The Sixers hold the 7th spot in the conference, and if the playoffs started today they'd be two-steppin' with the power houses of the East. The Sixers are fun, and their knack for being in every game keeps every fan on the edge of their seat. I just wish those fans didn't have to fall off in disappointment every so often, when the team decides to take the last quarter off.

JD

His Dream, In Sports

Each January 17th we celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In sports, his dream is revisited, and certainly celebrated, each and every day. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made it possible for African American athletes to share their talents on the local, national, and global stage, thus changing the sporting world forever. With the opportunity given to them by MLK, African American athletes raised the bar in sporting competitions on all levels. Without MLK, Babe Ruth would be the MLB Home Run King, John Havlicek would be the NBA All-Time points leader, and John Riggins would be the NFL leader in career rushing yards. Without African American athletes, NBA games would sit in the half court, the West Coast offense would be the only offense in Football, and sheer speed and agility would be a rare treat on an MLB baseball field. On behalf of those that live for the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat; the intensity and passion that is poured into High School, Collegian, and Professional sports, I would like to thank Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for shaping the modern sporting world; giving those the chance they well deserved, to make it just the way we like.

JD

Cheesesteaks vs. Cheeseheads

The first time our Birds met the Pack, Kevin Kolb left the game with a concussion at half time, Michael Vick staged a nail biting second half comeback, and when the Birds lost 27-20 with Vick's prayers falling just short, the upcoming season of Philadelphia football was up in shambles. Since then, the 2010 NFL Season has taken its annual turns, and the Packers, who were once NFC favorites, have found themselves barely scraping their way into the playoffs as the final wild card seed, while the Eagles led by the inspirational run of QB Michael Vick, are hosting a first round playoff game as the top team produced by the NFC East. What a difference 17 weeks can make. With as unbiased of an opinion as I can muster, here are my predictions and analyses of the playoff bout between the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers.

Key Match Ups

Michael Vick vs. Clay Matthews- Two teams successfully pressured Michael Vick for four quarters this season, and those teams, the Bears and Vikings, handed the Eagles two of their six losses. If the Packers hope to disrupt the silky flow the Eagles offense has established this season, Clay Matthews will need to be a major factor. The Eagles, who are bringing a banged up offensive line into the playoffs, will have a hard enough time dealing with the Packers' defensive front, which leaves plenty of room for an extra man as explosive as Mathews to do his thing. If he can create an uncomfortable pocket all game, we could see the pre jail Michael Vick; reckless and unreliable.

Tim Masthay vs. Desean Jackson- A big play on Special Teams while inevitable, often serves as a deciding factor in a close football game. When punting to ultimate weapon Desean Jackson, special teams becomes a game of cat and mouse. Tim Masthay has one job, keep the ball out of Jackson's hands and make the Eagles earn their points on offense. We all saw what he did when Matt Dodge slipped up, and what we got was the Miracle at the Meadowlands 2. Tim Masthay has his hands full on Sunday.

Greg Jennings vs. Asante Samuel- Asante Samuel is among the league's best in intercepting opposing QB's every year, but at often times hurts himself by allowing the big play when biting on pump fakes and short routs. When guarding Greg Jennings this Sunday he will need to contain him before satiating his thirst for interceptions, and disallow Aaron Rodgers to get in rhythm with his favorite target that received for over 1,200 yards while catching 12 touchdowns this season.

John Kuhn vs. Eagles Red Zone Defense- Don't let the 6 foot 250 pound fullback fool you with his burly size and mediocre speed. John Kuhn is a serious red zone threat. With 6 touchdowns this season, Kuhn will challenge an Eagles red zone defense that has been able to come up with occasional clutch stops that have altered the outcomes of various games. 3 points instead of 7? John Kuhn will be doing all he can, and the red zone unit better come to play for the Birds.

Key Offensive Players

Eagles

Lesean McCoy- Whether he is being handed the ball or thrown to in the flat, Lesean McCoy's success on Sunday will dictate the success of the Eagles offense as an entire unit.

Brent Celek- The different Celek will make for the Eagles offense is not as a receiver but as a blocker in maximum protection. The Vikings showed the league that the Eagles are extremely vulnerable to the corner blitz when not in maximum protection. Brent Celek's ability to disallow Packers' rushers to get around the edge will have a major impact on Michael Vick and the passing game.

Packers

Donald Lee- Although Lee has not been a major asset in the Packers offense this season, the Eagles linebacking crew in particular have had a major problem limiting the production of opposing tight ends this season.

John Kuhn- I said it earlier, John Kuhn simply provides problems for any defense, as an emerging premiere red zone scorer.

Key Defensive Players

Eagles

Trent Cole- Just like Clay Matthews Trent Cole has a very important job of disrupting Aaron Rodgers' rhythm throughout the game. Let Aaron Rodgers get into a consistent three step drop rhythm the secondary will be scrambling all night.

Sean McDermott- Thank god the young offensive coordinator was bred by the late genius Jim Johnson; with the injuries on his side of the ball he will need a nifty scheme to keep up with a high powered offense Sunday.

Packers

Clay Matthews- Disrupt Vick and you will (or have a much better chance to) win.

Tramon Williams- Williams led the Pack in interceptions this season, but that is not where he will prove his worth on Sunday. The Eagles who bring an ailing O-line and sub par blocking tailbacks into play on Sunday, will have much trouble dealing with extra men on the late down blitz. Enter Tramon Williams.

The last time the Eagles met the Pack in the playoffs, Fredex delivered and the Birds walked away victorious. While I do tag the Packers as the favorite in this Wild Card match up, the Eagles have an offense that just can't be counted out. Did I ever think I could say that Michael Vick is due for a big week season? Its playoff time, and Mike Vick, football's ultimate weapon, has only gotten started.

Cheesesteaks- 27 Cheeseheads- 20

JD