As discussed on tomorrow’s ChabDog Sports Talk Show…. The MLB All-Animal team (these guys were truly beasts at their respective positions):
Manager — Whitey Herzog — The White Rat
“Hippo” Vaughn — starting pitcher 178-137 ERA 2.49 (ERA Title, Pitching Triple Crown)
Harvey Haddix (The Kitten) — starting pitcher 136-113 ERA 3.63 (threw a no-hitter and lost)
Jim Kaat — starting pitcher 283-237 ERA 3.45 (Hall of Fame) (3x all star) 16 gold gloves
Old Hoss Radbourne — starting pitcher 310-194 (Hall of Fame) ERA Title 2.68 ERA
Goose Gossage — relief pitcher 124-107 301 saves (Hall of Fame) (9x all star)
Catcher — Yogi Berra (Hall of Fame) (3x MVP) (numerous world series titles and 18 all star appearances) (over 300 homers and over 2k hits)
Designated Hitter — Jimmy Foxx– aka The Beast (Hall of Fame, 3x MVP) (over 500 homers, lifetime avg of .325) Triple Crown
First Base — Lou Gehrig — aka The Iron Horse (Hall of Fame) (2 MVP) (.340 lifetime avg) 493 homers
Second Base — Nellie Fox — Hall of Fame, MVP (over 2600 hits, .288 avg) (3 gold gloves) 15x allstar
Shortstop — Rabbit Maranville – Hall of Fame (over 2600 hits, .258 avg) 291 stolen bases
Third Base — Bill “Mad Dog” Madlock — Four batting titles, over 2000 hits and lifetime .310 avg. (205 homers and lifetime avg of .305) 3x all star
Left Field — Ducky Medwick — Hall of Fame, MVP, Triple Crown winner, 10x all star
Right Field — Dave Parker — The Cobra — MVP, 7x allstar, 2 batting titles, 3 gold gloves, 2713 hits, .290 avg, 339 homers and nearly 1500 rbis, 2 world series titles
Center Field — Clyde Milan– Deerfoot — nearly 500 stolen bases, 2100 hits, .285 lifetime avg
Bench —
Johnny Mize (The Big Cat) — Hall of Fame, over 2000 hits, lifetime avg. 312, 349 homers, 10x allstar
Fred McGriff (Crime Dog) — Hall of Fame, 493 homers, lifetime avg. .284, nearly 2500 hits, 5x allstar
Ralph Garr (the Road Runner, Gator) — 1500 hits, .306 lifetime avg., 170 stolen bases
Dave Kingman (Kong) — 3x allstar, 442 homers
Omar Moreno — The Antelope — nearly 500 stolen bases
Ron Cey — Penguin — 6x all star, World Series MVP, 300 plus homers, over 1800 hits and over 1100 rbis
Walt Dropo — Moose — 1s allstar, Rookie of the Year, 152 homers
ChabDog’s Sweet 16 Summary (Day 1):
–I wasn’t dreaming of Jeannie tonight… I was dreaming of Major Nelson, and what a beautiful reality
show it was. The 3’s, the reverse lay ups, the blocks, and the free throws…. what a show from a guy
who really came of age tonight in a big way. And what a boost for Coach Oats and the entire Crimson Tide
program…. showing the Tar Heels what’s what in the biggest basketball win in school history.
ROLL TIDE, ROLL!
— The first half was relatively tame, with SD State clinging to U Conn’s coattails, but after halftime, there
was no more static cling, as Clingan, Caraban and the rest of the crew cruised.
— Arizona got most of the style points tonight, but when it came to substance,
that was all Clemson. The Tigers did all the little things better, and when the game was
on the line and the heat was on in the kitchen, who came through but the Hall Monitor and the Chef.
–The Illini were bricklayers from the line, but the ‘Clones couldn’t
throw it in the ocean from anywhere else. In a rather ugly encounter,
No. 3 survives No. 2, and now faces likely execution at the hands of No. 1.
We shall see, but this was sloppy all the way around.
Day 1 cliffnotes from the ChabDog Group ESPN Bracket Racket (now this is what I call adulterated bracketeering):
— Jenna goes 14 up 2 down, while ChabDog keeps pace with the same, but takes a bigger hit when Kentucky chokes against Oakland… say what?
— Meanwile IG JackCart looks pretty smart at 89%, followed by a slew of 70 percenters, including Well-read and Yolk (who persists in picking Perdone)
— Abe and Blixx take a day 1 dive at 45, along with someone not quite coming up smelling like a rose
— And it’s Dunker in the bunker, pulling up the rear with Queen Momsie and EFS Grand Slam….
when we consider whether the Big 10 Champs are really ready to cook up something special for the Big Dance… or are they just chicken. Will Edey be the gourmet delivering the magic elixir that has eluded the Boilermakers for so long, since the days of Wooden, through the trials and tribulations of Combover Keady, and the pre-mature promise of Painter’s past pretenders. Lots more to consider, from the battle on the bubble to who’s most likely slated for Humpty Dumpty treatment.
And for your further consumption, we got Abe’s etsy swagger, Well-read’s soundboard back on track, Dorothy’s nutritional knowledge, and some choice prime clips chucked out there by ChabDog.
Take it in at chabdog.com….
Listen to the tide slowly turning
Wash all our heartaches away
We’re part of the fire that is burning
And from the ashes we can build another day
MAKE WAY FOR CREIGHTON.
interest rates are going down, this year’s gonna end with a positive bang, and when April flowers bloom,
the Moody Blue Jays will be jubilant.
So sayeth the Oracle of Omaha…
The Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament bracket is here, and as usual, it is glorious. What’s even better is that the beautiful pinwheel logo has returned to prominence after one-year hiatus that is among the worst decisions in college basketball tournament logo history. Penn State has almost zero chance of winning this thing, which is its only available path to the NCAA Tournament, but I can dream of a run to the semifinals thanks to a favorable draw that avoids Purdue and Illinois through the first three rounds.
The #B1GMBBT bracket is set. 🏀 pic.twitter.com/26VaSJB5cc
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) March 11, 2024
Sure, Penn State has to play on the first evening of the tournament, which is a Peacock exclusive event, but if it had been seeded a little higher in slots 10 through seven, the matchup in the quarterfinals would feature Purdue or Illinois instead of the less intimidating Nebraska. I’m getting way ahead of myself, though, since just reaching the quarterfinals means defeating a red hot Indiana team that is desperate to play its way onto the NCAA bubble. Penn State might have a psychological edge from defeating the Hoosiers twice this season, but Indiana has looked like a different team on its current four-game winning streak. Plus, just to get to that date with Indiana, the Nittany Lions must get past Michigan tonight. The Wolverines have lost eight straight, but Penn State has a loss to Bucknell on its resume, so nothing is impossible.
Purdue established Big Ten supremacy last week with a thrilling victory at Illinois before wrapping up its regular season with a home win over Wisconsin. The slumping Badgers have not been a great team since February started, as they finished Big Ten play 3-8 after starting 8-1, but I’ll give them credit for the way they battled the Boilers despite having another rough game from beyond the arc. Wisconsin shot 5-for-24 from three-point range, but John Blackwell and Tyler Wahl both went 7-for-10 from the field to keep Purdue from running away with the game.
Blackwell in particular is a guy to look out for with 35 points over his last two games. He’s a freshman who has gotten better throughout the season, and he’ll have to be a major factor if the Badgers are going to make a run in Minneapolis. For Purdue, the Big Ten Tournament is a precursor to the Big Dance, where Matt Painter’s team must redeem itself for last year’s embarrassing loss to Fairleigh Dickinson in the first round. If the Boilers fail to reach the Sweet 16 again, they will be laughed at for years to come, and I think most college hoops fans will even consider the season a failure they fall short of the Final Four. There is going to be a lot at stake in every NCAA Tournament game for Purdue as it tries to reach the Final Four for the first time since 1980. It will be interesting to see how the Boilers handle the Big Ten Tournament since their status as a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament is locked in. Winning a Big Ten Tournament title in addition to the regular season title is an amazing accomplishment, but no one will care if Purdue doesn’t follow it up with a Final Four appearance.
Without all that pressure of recent history, Illinois figures to be looser and more motivated in the Big Ten Tournament. If it takes care of business, a third game against Purdue in the championship on Sunday is very possible. And unlike Purdue, Illinois can improve its seeding in the NCAA Tournament with a Big Ten Tournament title. The Illini may have lost to Purdue last week, but they are still playing their best basketball of the season over the past month with the way their offense has blown up. They bounced back from the Purdue loss with an impressive win against Iowa in a game that Iowa needed to have with its NCAA Tournament hopes on the line. Illinois held the Hawkeyes to 61 points in a 73-61 win and Iowa’s Tony Perkins had one of his worst games of the season with two points on 2-for-10 shooting.
That can happen when you’re locked in a matchup with Terrence Shannon Jr. like Perkins was. It’s easy to forget sometimes that Shannon is such a good defender because of how good he is on the other end, but this guy is the complete package. There aren’t a lot of players who can attack the rim as ferociously as Shannon does while also shooting 35 percent from beyond the arc, and all of his skills were on display in Iowa City. Shannon scored 25 points on 10-for-19 shooting while going 3-for-8 from beyond the arc. The man can take over a game whenever he wants.
To have any chance at the NCAA Tournament, Iowa will need to defeat Ohio State on Thursday and win its rematch with Illinois on Friday. Tony Perkins obviously must play better, even if that means deferring to teammates instead of looking for his own shot. I would suggest passing more to big men like Owen Freeman and Ben Krikke. They combined for just 10 points on Sunday despite Illinois’ lack of size on the post.
Indiana is another team that is desperate for a deep run in the Big Ten Tournament. I’m not sure if an at-large bid is even possible for the Hoosiers, but they have looked fantastic lately, and they kept their hopes of dancing alive with a 65-64 home win over Michigan State on Sunday. Indiana jumped out to a 17-point lead midway through the first half, only to watch it disappear in about 10 minutes. Michigan State led by as many as seven in the second half, but the Hoosiers went on an 8-0 to take the lead back on Xavier Johnson’s three-point shot with eight minutes to play. The two teams battled down the stretch, with Kel’el Ware putting Indiana up by two on a five-foot hook shot with two minutes left. Tyson Walker answered with a driving layup, and after an empty trip for each team, Ware was fouled by Malik Hall with 17 seconds left, which resulted in the game-winning free throw.
With Trey Galloway banged up and limited to seven minutes of play, Indiana didn’t get much from its backcourt, but Ware continued his dominance with 28 points and 12 rebounds while Malik Reneau handed out five assists in addition to his 16 points. Michigan State got 30 points from Walker, but Malik Hall and Jaden Akins combined for just 17 points on 7-for-24 shooting.
The battle in Bloomington was by far the most exciting game of the Big Ten’s regular season finale. Elsewhere on Sunday, Ohio State held Rutgers to 27 percent shooting and outscored the Knights by 20 in the second half on the way to a 73-51 win in Piscataway. In another road blowout, Nebraska hammered Michigan 85-70 behind 30 points from Keisei Tominaga. And even my Nittany Lions got a convincing win! They won 85-69 at home against Maryland, but with Julian Reese nursing an injured ankle and no hope of an NCAA Tournament appearance, I’m not sure Maryland was very motivated. Jahmir Young only played 30 minutes, Donta Scott only played 20, and seldom-used bench guys like Caelum Swanton-Rodger got meaningful playing time. Whatever; a win is a win.
Who do YOU have winning the Big Ten Tournament? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/IKN2fVb783
— DraftKings Sportsbook (@DKSportsbook) March 13, 2024
We should be in for a great Big Ten Tournament with two elite teams in Purdue and Illinois, two feisty overachievers who are looking to prove themselves in Nebraska and Northwestern, and two teams who are clinging to hope of an NCAA Tournament bid with Iowa and Indiana. Story lines galore! My pick to win it is Illinois because it is an extremely deep and talented team and will be more motivated than Purdue. As for the best gambling value, that goes to Northwestern at +1600. If Boo Buie and that offense gets hot, watch out.
I said on the Chabdog Sports podcast last Sunday that Purdue would be listed as champion when I fill out my NCAA Tournament bracket in a couple of weeks. On Tuesday night, the Boilers showed why I think they will complete their redemption arc when they beat Illinois 77-71 in Champaign. The combination of opponent and venue made the game Purdue’s stiffest test since December, and it passed thanks to a clutch three-point shot in the final seconds by Braden Smith. The shot came at the tail end of a broken possession by the Boilers that was saved once by Zach Edey, who slapped the ball away from Illinois and into the hands of his teammates Fletcher Loyer following Lance Jones’ wild layup attempt. Smith saved it again when he casually pulled up from five feet beyond the arc and drained his jumper over Terrence Shannon Jr.
If Smith had not clutched up, Illinois would likely the ball back down by three points with 18 seconds to play. Instead, the lead was six, and the game was over when Shannon’s answer bounced off the rim. Smith’s effort was just one of several big three-point shots for Purdue in the second half. Edey dominated the first 20 minutes with 18 points, but Illinois held him to 10 after the break, forcing the Boilers to look to their role players for help. They answered, starting with Mason Gillis’ three-point shot in transition that gave Purdue its first lead at 56-54 with 10 minutes to play. Gillis drained another one to put the Boilers ahead 64-58 with seven minutes left, but Illinois tied the game with a dunk by Coleman Hawkins two straight driving layups by Marcus Domask, the last of which he floated in over Edey.
Braden Smith! Onions! He bailed out Matt Painter, who for some reason did not call a time out during this broken possession. Purdue’s biggest win of the year. pic.twitter.com/bivOs9D3uN
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) March 6, 2024
Illinois would retake the lead on a pair of free throws by Shannon, but Loyer put Purdue back up by three with a three-point shot and a runner in the paint on consecutive possessions. Lance Jones hit a monster triple from the corner to expand the advantage to six with less than a minute on the clock, but Domask struck back with another layup plus the foul to set the stage for Smith’s heroics.
With Edey doing his thing like he always does, Purdue is not going to be beat when it shoots the three as accurately as it did against Illinois (9-for-16). Matt Painter’s team doesn’t excel at creating its own shot from the perimeter, but it showed that it can break down the opposing defense and find the open man with 20 assists on 29 field goals during the win. Illinois did an excellent job slowing down Edey in the second half, but it could not keep up with Purdue’s three-point shooting. Illinois was just 4-for-16 beyond the arc, and most of that came from Quincy Guerrier catching fire in the first half. Domask was the one guy who came up huge down the stretch, and Shannon needs to step up if the Illini are going to win a rematch with Purdue in the Big Ten Tournament or NCAA Tournament. He went 3-for-13 from the field with just 11 points.
Purdue and Illinois are locked into the top two seeds of the Big Ten Tournament with the Boilers clinching their second straight outright conference title with their victory. That means that the next time these two could meet is on Sunday in the final game of the tournament. There’s a decent chance for that since both squads have proven to be in a tier of their own above the rest of the Big Ten, but one team that could derail destiny is the Indiana Hoosiers.
I left Indiana for dead after it lost to my Nittany Lions two weeks ago to complete a four-game losing streak, but these Hoosiers are finally showing some resiliency that they have lacked for most of the campaign. They bounced back with three straight wins, with the last two coming on the road against Maryland and Minnesota.
Two of the biggest factors in Indiana’s revival were on display during their 70-58 victory in The Barn on Wednesday night. The first is Kel’el Ware emerging as a consistently dominant center. Ware has had some monster games this season, but two of his best have happened during Indiana’s winning streak. He scored 27 points on 11-for-12 shooting with 11 rebounds and five blocks against Wisconsin before feasting in similar fashion at Minnesota. In that game, he scored 26 points with 11 rebounds and three blocks, but he also showed off his guard skills some more with a pair of three-point field goals on three attempts and three assists as well. Ware is shooting 44 percent from beyond the arc this season (16-for-36), so I’m looking for him to expand that part of his game as we head into tournament play.
FG: 12-16
PTS: 26
REB: 11
AST: 3
BLK: 3Kel'el Ware put all his skills on display tonight. 💯@KelelWare x @IndianaMBB pic.twitter.com/dBtmmfLKAT
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) March 7, 2024
The second revival factor is Trey Galloway embracing the point guard role. We know that Indiana’s backcourt production has been an issue all season with Xavier Johnson going in and out of the lineup. It doesn’t help that Galloway is only hitting 25 percent of his threes this season or that Gabe Cupps barely shoots at all. If you’re a guard who doesn’t shoot well, you better be able to break down a defense, and Galloway has proven much better at that lately. He averages 4.8 assists per game, but all three of his double-digit assist games have come in the past six games for Indiana. That includes Galloway’s 11 dimes against the Gophers that he dished out despite Johnson playing 22 minutes off the bench. Galloway led a passing effort that saw the Hoosiers assist on a crazy 28 of 30 field goals. Indiana was beat up on the glass by Pharrel Payne and Dawson Garcia, but it still ran away from Minnesota in the second half thanks to that incredibly efficient offensive performance.
In the early game on Wednesday, Michigan State got a win it desperately needed by beating Northwestern 53-49 in a good, old fashioned East Lansing rock fight. The Spartans have mostly been a flashy, guard-led team this season that loves to run the floor and score in transition. In their effort to snap a three-game losing skid, though, they showed a ton of grit against the Wildcats. Michigan State only shot 32 percent from the field, but it grabbed 19 offensive rebounds on 41 missed field goals to generate enough opportunities to pull out a win. Malik Hall was responsible for seven of those offensive boards and a whopping 17 overall to go with his 15 points, and Tre Holloman scored a clutch 12 points off the bench for Michigan State.
Malik Hall (@iammalikhall) absolutely cleaned the glass last night. ✨
Sports Science Stat x @ifs pic.twitter.com/5iFEtO5s3Y
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) March 7, 2024
With the game on the line, though, of course it was Tyson Walker who showed up to put the game in the W column. Michigan State was clinging to a one-point lead with less than three minutes to play in a game where a field goal had not been made in more than four minutes. Walker proceeded to score layups on two straight possessions to give the Spartans a commanding five-point lead. They still had to sweat, though. Ryan Langborg was making his return to the Northwestern lineup, and was having a pretty miserable game, but he came up huge with a three-point shot that cut Michigan State’s lead to two with a minute to play. After Northwestern got a stop, Langborg had a clean look for three and the lead with 10 seconds left, but the shot clanked off the back rim and Holloman drew a loose-ball foul when he hustled after the rebound. The reserve guard hit his two free throws to wrap up the victory and give the Spartans a little momentum as they head into a huge game at Indiana on the final day of the regular season.
Northwestern bounced back nicely with a 90-66 blowout win against Minnesota on Saturday night in Evanston. Garcia scored 30 points with nine rebounds and three blocks for the Gophers, and Elijah Hawkins had 14 points with 10 assists, but the Northwestern offense was overwhelming on this night. The Cats shot 10-for-18 from deep and 59 percent overall while committing just one turnover. That is ridiculous. They were well balanced as well, with four players handing out at least four assists and four scoring at least 14 points. Boo Buie and Brooks Barnhizer led the way with 23 points each, and Northwestern looked like that team that you don’t want to face at this time of year. The emergence of Nick Martinelli late in the season has taken the offense to a new level.
The only other Big Ten game this week that I haven’t mentioned yet featured Wisconsin taking care of business at home against Rutgers 78-66. The Scarlet Knights led by seven early in the second half, and they shut down Tyler Wahl and Max Klesmit, but Kamari McGee was a hero off the bench for the Badgers. The seldom-used junior showed off his quickness and scored 11 points in 10 minutes, with nine of them coming during the 19-2 run that let Wisconsin take control of the game. John Blackwell also starred in a backup role with 17 points and eight rebounds, while starting center Steven Crowl was a beast on the boards with six offensive rebounds, 11 total rebounds, and 17 points of his own. AJ Storr led everyone with 19 points.
On the Rutgers side, freshman Gavin Griffiths had one of his best shooting nights of the season by going 4-for-9 from beyond the arc and scoring 14 points, which are the most he’s had since blowing up for 25 against Boston University back in November. As a team, the Knights shot 45 percent from the field, which is pretty damn good for them, especially on the road. The problem was that they turned the ball over 18 times against a team that doesn’t do much to force them. Yuck.
Holy cow, there is just one game left of Big Ten basketball before the Big Ten Tournament and the glorious return of the beautiful pinwheel logo. Northwestern and Minnesota are in the clubhouse, but everyone else has one last game to play on Sunday. The Wildcats look like a good bet for a top four seed and a double bye in the bracket since they just need Wisconsin to lose at Purdue. Nebraska would then be able to join Northwestern with a 12-8 record and a double bye if it wins at Michigan, which is the first game of the day. If the Huskers slip up, it’s possible for there to be a four-way tie for fourth place with Nebraska, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Michigan State. For that to happen, Iowa and Michigan State would have to defeat Illinois and Indiana, respectively. Those are going to be tough games, so we’ll wait for the results before we attempt to figure out how to break the hypothetical tie.
There is also a potential traffic jam when it comes to the 11th seed, which is the highest ranked team that has to play on the first day of the Big Ten Tournament. Penn State occupies the spot now, but it can move to 9-11 with a win at home over Maryland, while Indiana could possibly fall back to 9-11 with a loss to Michigan State. If Ohio State (at Rutgers) and Penn State win while Indiana loses, that would create a four-way tie for seeds eight through 11, so we might have to sort through that as well. I cannot wait for the bracket to come out on Sunday night!
The Peacock strikes again! We heard outrage from across the sports universe when the NFL made its Dolphins vs. Chiefs Playoff game exclusively available on NBC’s streaming service. Now, something similar is happening in Big Ten Basketball, and the conference should be embarrassed that the top game on its regular season schedule won’t be in front of as many viewers as possible. Before the Big Ten’s new media rights deal that went into affect this fall, Purdue vs. Illinois on Tuesday night would be on ESPN where every fan knows how to find it, and it would have been promoted all day long on ESPN’s many programs. The new deal might work for football because the Big Ten doesn’t need ESPN when it has games on three major networks all day, but with basketball NBC has made Peacock part of the deal, and that is a nightmare for ratings.
The worst part is that we are over a month away from WrestleMania, so a fan would need to subscribe for two months in order to get Purdue vs. Illinois as well as the Showcase of the Immortals. At least with the NFL sham, the Royal Rumble was included in the price of the football game. As a wrestling and Big Ten fanatic, I’ve been watching on Peacock all season, but for fans who are just getting into college basketball now, the stream exclusive is going to be a major turnoff. They’ll likely just stick with ESPN for Alabama vs. Florida and Kansas State vs. Kansas.
Those who do invest in Peacock should get a great game. Purdue and Illinois met earlier in the season on January 5, and the Boilermakers led comfortably for much of the game on the way to a 83-78 win. However, not only was that game at Mackey Arena where Purdue never loses, but Illinois’ star guard Terrence Shannon Jr. was suspended due to sexual assault allegations. The Illini held Zach Edey to 10 points, but they were burned by Trey Kaufman-Renn, who erupted for 23 points on 8-for-12 shooting. It will be interesting to see if Illinois head coach Brad Underwood employs a similar strategy tonight since Kaufman-Renn hasn’t approached that kind of scoring output in the last two months and hasn’t even scored 10 points in his last six games.
With the game shifting to Champaign’s State Farm Center and Shannon playing some of his best basketball, the Illini are favored by two and a half. It will be the first time Purdue is an underdog in Big Ten play this season and the first time it is an underdog at all since its clash with Arizona back in December. Both teams are riding three-game winning streaks, but Illinois’ schedule has been a little tougher lately with a game at Wisconsin and another against a hot Iowa team at home. Plus, the Illini have scored at least 85 points in their last six games. With Shannon finding his three-point shot and Marcus Domask being a master technician in the paint, this is a team that can come at you from everywhere, and I didn’t even mention Coleman Hawkins’ range at center or the rebounding ability of Quincy Guerrier and Ty Rodgers.
In other words, Illinois won’t be the only defense with its hands full tonight. On the other end, Zach Edey has been unstoppable lately. In Purdue’s last game against Michigan State on Saturday night, Spartan big man Mady Sissoko accumulated four personal fouls in just six minutes. Michigan State threw a bunch of bodies at Edey, but he still scored 32 points on 9-for-15 field goal shooting and 14-for-20 free throw shooting. Edey is too big to keep him from getting into scoring range, but he can be forced into turnovers if he has to put the ball on the floor. Turning a few Edey turnovers into fast-break scoring opportunities will be key for Illinois tonight. Scoring in transition helped the Illini put away Wisconsin on Saturday when Justin Harmon blocked Chucky Hepburn’s shot in the paint in the final two minutes. That led to a fast break and a layup for Shannon to give Illinois a 10-point lead.
Here’s what else happened in the Big Ten over the weekend.
Penn State collapsed against Minnesota for the second time this season
As if one collapse against Minnesota was not enough, Penn State went up by a whopping 23 points in the first half in Minneapolis only to lose 75-70. Hot three-point shooting by Puff Johnson and Ace Baldwin Jr. helped the Lions gain the early edge, but the Gophers whittled the lead down by 12 by halftime and overtook Penn State thanks to some big shots by Cam Christie (19 points) and a key steal by Elijah Hawkins (18 points, 8 assists) down the stretch.
Iowa got another huge win at Northwestern
The Hawkeyes are binging on Quad 1 wins lately, and they might have won five games in a row if not for the awesome offensive performance by Illinois two Saturdays ago. Northwestern is still without Ryan Langborg, but it still shot 54 percent from the field and 10-for-20 from beyond the arc thanks to Boo Buie’s 27 points and 6-for-7 three-point performance. Buie hit some monster shots to keep the Wildcats in the game throughout the second half, but Iowa was just a little better the whole way. The Hawkeyes won 87-80 with 25 assists on 33 made baskets. Tony Perkins had 14 of those assists, while Josh Dix remains as hot as liquid magma with 24 points on 4-for-5 three-point shooting. Payton Sandfort had another well-rounded game with 23 points, five rebounds, and six assists. Iowa is still projected to miss the NCAA Tournament, but it can change that with a win in its final regular season game against Illinois on Sunday.
Indiana might be back after a big second half comeback at Maryland
If Iowa is the potential seventh Big Ten team in the NCAA Tournament, could Indiana be the eighth? Probably not, but its insane fans are starting to talk themselves into it now that Mike Woodson’s team has won two straight over Wisconsin and Maryland. The Terps got a rare balanced performance on offense with four players in double figures and 48-percent field goal shooting. They led by 10 at halftime and by as many as 16 in the second half, but the Hoosiers stormed past them and won 83-78 thanks to some solid point guard play by Xavier Johnson off the bench (13 points, six assists), and Mackenzie Mgbako exploding for 24 points on 4-for-8 shooting from beyond the arc.
With Johnson healthy, Mgbako playing like a seasoned veteran, and Ware and Reneau dominating the paint, it’s not crazy to think that Indiana could win its final two regular season games against Minnesota and Michigan State. If it does that, the Hoosiers will be a hot pick to make a run in the Big Ten Tournament next week.
Nebraska completes perfect Big Ten home slate and Ohio State gets revenge on Michigan
It was not surprising to see Ohio State blow out Michigan 84-61 on Sunday since the teams are headed in opposite directions. The Buckeyes might have to consider making Jake Diebler the full-time head coach with the way he has led this program after Chris Holtmann was fired, but I’m guessing Ohio State has bigger fish in mind. Meanwhile, the Wolverines have to figure out if Juwan Howard is the man to turn their mess around after a very disappointing campaign.
In the final game of the weekend, Nebraska took care of business against Rutgers 67-56. The Huskers are 10-0 at home in Big Ten play and 1-8 on the road. They have a great chance to get a second conference road win a trip to Ann Arbor this Sunday, but it will still be very interesting to see which Nebraska team we get when the Big Ten Tournament tips off in neutral site Minneapolis. The Huskers have lots of scoring and shooting depth, so if they can bottle up the Pinnacle Bank Arena vibes, they are another dark horse to watch this month.
I really thought Ohio State was done with the upsets after it stunned Purdue two weekends ago in interim head coach Jake Diebler’s debut, but on Sunday, the Buckeyes pulled off yet another shocker. They went into East Lansing as 10-point underdogs and beat Michigan State 60-57 with the margin of victory coming on a last-second three-point heave by Dale Bonner. Just moments earlier, Tyson Walker had a chance to put Michigan State ahead with a fair of free throws, but he somehow wedged his first attempt in between the backboard and the rim. Walker had to settle for a tie with his second free throw, but Bonner’s clutch bomb ensured that it didn’t matter.
Ohio State is now 2-1 since Chris Holtmann was fired, and I feel a little bad for him even though he is technically on a paid vacation right now. These kinds of wins are what Ohio State was building towards with its young lineup, and against Michigan State, it was even younger than usually due to Jamison Battle missing the game with an ankle injury. Freshman Scotty Middleton replaced Battle to give Ohio State all underclassman in the starting five. The Buckeyes certainly missed Battle’s three-point prowess, as they went 3-for-17 from beyond the arc in the low-scoring affair, but the Spartans had their own shooting issues and shot just 4-for-16 from that range, including 1-for-9 from Tyson Walker and Jaden Akins.
OHIO STATE STUNS MICHIGAN STATE AT THE BUZZER 🚨 pic.twitter.com/SaIQY2jT0m
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) February 25, 2024
Still, Michigan State appeared to have the game under control with a 12-point lead and 11 minutes on the clock, but Devin Royal came off the bench for Ohio State and proved to be an unlikely hero alongside Felix Okpara. The pair of big men led the Buckeyes on the comeback trail and closed to within one point at 52-51 with six minutes left, setting the stage for the exciting conclusion. Royal, another freshman, showed off his post moves and mid-range game while scoring 14 points on 6-for-8 shooting in just 18 minutes. Okpara added 10 points and six rebounds, with four coming on offense.
No matter who is the head coach for Ohio State next year, the team has a bright future with all the young talent that has emerged this season. If the roster doesn’t fall apart, it should be a very desirable job since whoever gets it will be in line for massive improvement without having to do much. Michigan State, meanwhile, looked like it was a lock for the NCAA Tournament a week ago, but back-to-back home losses over teams with worse records have put the Spartans’ postseason status in doubt. It doesn’t help that their next game is on Saturday at Purdue.
Speaking of the Boilermakers, they took care of business on Sunday with a 84-76 victory at Michigan. The Wolverines as usual showed some life in the first half, but Purdue broke away with an 18-6 run leading into halftime and kept Michigan at arm’s length for the rest of the game. Juwan Howard made the odd decision to not double team Zach Edey, and he took full advantage with 35 points on 14-for-18 shooting. Purdue had a poor shooting day from beyond the arc, going 7-for-24, but Edey and company grabbed 17 offensive rebounds to mitigate the damage. Without all those second chances, it would have been a much more interesting game, as Michigan got a balanced effort on offense led by Dug McDaniel’s 19 points and six assists. The Wolverines shot 48 percent from the field and 43 percent from three-point range even with Olivier Nkamhoua out for the rest of the season due to wrist surgery.
The most exciting game of the Big Ten weekend was Illinois’ 95-85 win over Iowa in Champaign. It was also a great example of why gambling should be done responsibly. Iowa was in the game the whole way through and even led by seven with just over 12 minutes left, but Illinois pulled away late with much thanks to a steal and breakaway dunk by Coleman Hawkins that helped it cover the nine-point spread. Hawkins was a major factor all day as he bounced back tremendously from his snafus at the end of the Illini’s loss at Penn State. The long and versatile big man scored 30 points on a scorching 9-for-11 from the field and also dished out five assists and added five steals. Illinois is so tough to play against when Hawkins plays up to his potential because of the nightmare he poses for opposing defenses. He can step back and hit the three against traditional big men and also score in the paint against smaller players. We know what Terrence Shannon Jr. is capable of, but he only needed to score 12 points in this one and Illinois nearly scored 100 points.
FG: 9-11
PTS: 30
AST: 5
STL: 5Here's every basket from Coleman Hawkins' career-high 30-point afternoon. ⤵️@colehawk23 x @IlliniMBB pic.twitter.com/RUsHZlqRb1
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) February 24, 2024
Illinois has all the tools it needs to make a deep NCAA Tournament run, and Brad Underwood showed off the depth of his team early in the second half against Iowa when he made a full line change. The Illini played with five bench players on the floor for about four minutes, and the unit held its own. Italian freshman point guard Niccolo Moretti even stuck around and played in crunch time, hitting a pair of huge three-point shots in the process. I’ve talked before about Illinois lacking a traditional point guard in its starting lineup, and while Underwood has found a way to fill the void, Moretti is certainly someone to watch as a potential impact player in March.
For Iowa, it was a disappointing loss even though the team came in as a big underdog. The Hawkeyes were right there for most of the afternoon, but they missed out on a third straight Quad 1 win. As a result, they are still likely out of the NCAA Tournament field if it was decided today. There are still plenty of chances for Iowa to improve its resume with Northwestern and a rematch with Illinois left on the schedule, but first it must defeat Penn State at home on Tuesday night. Josh Dix led the Hawkeyes in scoring in Champaign, and he is becoming a bigger and bigger factor with his mid-range shooting accuracy.
Elsewhere on Saturday, Penn State impressed me with a win over the reeling Hoosiers. I knew that Indiana was down bad and I knew that the Lions were supposed to win, but I was still dreading the game. Fortunately, Indiana continued to be one of the worst shooting teams in the country by going 2-for-15 from three-point range and 14-for-25 at the free throw line. It’s preposterous that an Indiana team is so bad at the great equalizing factor of basketball, and it has been a major factor in the program having a horrific campaign. The Hoosiers still shot 51 percent from the field with Malik Reneau (27 points) and Kel’el Ware (16 points) dominating in the paint, but Ware’s impact was minimized by foul trouble and Penn State pulled away from Indiana with a 26-for-30 performance from the charity stripe and sharp three-point shooting led by Zach Hicks going 4-for-8 from beyond the arc with 17 points.
THE FOUR POINT PLAY! 👏@zhicks1231 x @PennStateMBB pic.twitter.com/H9xkXsnFWn
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) February 24, 2024
These days, it’s hard to have a Penn State win without Ace Baldwin Jr. playing well, and he was pretty great on Saturday with 23 points, 7-for-12 shooting, nine assists, and four steals. He also played all 40 minutes and scored eight straight points to give the Lions a little cushion at halftime following a tightly contested first half. The Lions will need Baldwin to keep playing like a stud if they’re going to do anything in the postseason. The NIT is still up for grabs, but to get there, Penn State probably needs to win one of its remaining two road games at Iowa and at Minnesota.
Maryland and Minnesota are two other contenders for the NIT, and they went in opposite directions on Sunday. The Terps picked up a big road win at Rutgers, and it was the first home loss for Rutgers since Penn State went into Piscataway and won 61-46 on the last day of January. Maryland also held the Scarlet Knights under 50 points with a 63-46 victory that was never close after the Terps went on a 10-0 run at the end of the first half that featured three-point shots by Jordan Geronimo, Jahmir Young, and Donta Scott.
We know that Rutgers’ offense has been rotten all year, but it was particularly bad against Maryland’s tough defense. The Knights shot 37 percent from the field, went 2-for-11 from three-point range, and did not have a starter score in double figures. That is ugly. For Maryland, Julian Reese was dominant with 20 points on 8-for-11 shooting, Young handed out nine assists, and Geronimo played one of his best games of the season with 11 points and 11 rebounds.
Minnesota is a team we’ve talked about as a dark horse for the NCAA Tournament here and there, but it has a weak non-conference resume and has fallen short in key spots during Big Ten season. Two weeks ago, the Gophers had a chance to pick up a key road win at Iowa, but Dawson Garcia got hurt and they blew a 19-point second half lead. This latest game at Nebraska was another opportunity for Minnesota. I knew Nebraska had not lost a home game in 2024, but I figured it would be hotly contested because of how well Minnesota was playing lately. Well, it was hotly contested for the first 11 minutes. Then the Huskers pulled away on a 14-2 run and continued to increase their lead in the second half.
Keisei Tominaga and Rienk Mast struggled for Nebraska, but Juwan Gary picked up the slack with a game-high 22 points, 7-for-13, shooting, and eight rebounds. Brice Williams pitched in with 15 points, eight rebounds, and three steals while Nebraska’s defense held Minnesota to 31 percent shooting and forced 13 turnovers. The Gophers have not been very good outside of the Barn this season, but they will need to figure out a way to win on the road at Illinois on Wednesday if they want to keep their faint NCAA Tournament hopes alive.
We’ve been saying for years that Penn State Basketball would be a more impressive television product if the home arena wasn’t the Bryce Jordan Center. The giant arena is way too big for a program that strives to be in the middle of the Big Ten standings in a good year. When Penn State plays in the Palestra or at Rec Hall, it looks like a proper basketball program, and sometimes it even plays like one. Wednesday night was one of those nights with Illinois in town. However, for most of the night, it looked like a typical 2024 Penn State loss. The Lions got off to a hot start on offense, but then fizzled and struggled to keep pace with the talented Illini because of their failure to grab a rebound on defense. Illinois often doesn’t need second chances, especially with Terrence Shannon Jr. playing like he did, but it got 19 of them, with the Swiss Army Knife Ty Rodgers grabbing five offensive boards. That helped make up for 18 Illinois turnovers that Penn State needed just to keep the game respectable while Shannon was going off for a career-high 35 points on 10-for-18 shooting.
Another reason why Penn State only trailed by 10 points with two and a half minutes left was Nick Kern Jr. He has shown some upside with his athleticism this season, but again Illinois he got to the basket at will. At one point in the second half, Kern scored 13 straight Penn State points, and he finished with a season-high 22. Now that Kanye Clary is out of the picture, I’m hoping that Kern can stick around for one or two more seasons and develop into a star, but to do that he needs to expand his range past 10 feet from the basket.
IT'S STORMING IN STATE COLLEGE ‼️@PennStateMBB takes down No. 12 Illinois. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/zq0GMzJNVk
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) February 22, 2024
Anyway, Zach Hicks hit a mid-range shot to cut the deficit to eight points, and then the Illinois collapse began. Shannon drove into the paint and kicked the ball to the corner to set up Luke Goode with a wide-open dagger three. With the way Goode shoots the ball, that should be a layup for him, but he missed, and Hicks answered with a triple for Penn State to cut the lead to five. However, Illinois was still in great shape after two free throws from Marcus Domask and a missed three by Ace Baldwin Jr. Now the Illini were up by seven points with less than a minute left. Shannon tried a runner in the paint, but it bounced out and Jameel Brown took advantage by crushing a three-point shot in transition. Brown’s next play was even bigger, though, because Penn State needed a turnover to make it a one-possession game. Brown came through by stripping Shannon of the ball, which led to an easy layup for Puff Johnson. All of a sudden, the Lions trailed by just two with 30 seconds left.
The pressure was building on Illinois to put the game away, and Coleman Hawkins had a chance to do that when he was fouled by Johnson on the next play even though it looked like Hawkins traveled. It ended up not mattering as Hawkins missed both free throws despite being an 80-percent shooter from the charity stripe this season. Penn State appeared to botch the ensuing possession when Baldwin got stuck in the backcourt and Hicks fired off a prayer of a shot from well beyond the arc, but Hawkins incredibly fouled Hicks in his rush to defend the low-percentage attempt. Hicks calmly sunk all three free throws to give Penn State 90-89 lead and it was a big bail-out moment for Mike Rhoades. He got caught sitting on a timeout during that horrible final possession, but the dumb foul by Hawkins changed everything.
Illinois had no time outs and three seconds left to respond, and it came surprisingly close to winning thanks to a long inbounds pass to Justin Harmon that led to a five-foot runner at the buzzer. The shot fell out, and it was time to party in Happy Valley. The upset win was a great morale booster following the departure of Clary, but it probably won’t change the postseason fate of these Lions. The bubble is too competitive and the team has too many weaknesses. It’s not like Penn State outplayed Illinois for more than one wild final minute.
🗣️ @TheAndyKatz LOVES the idea of future @PennStateMBB games at Rec Hall: pic.twitter.com/2fXrRx2aq2
— Penn State On BTN (@PennStateOnBTN) February 23, 2024
I think the best parts to come out of the win were the national media attention that the awesome Rec Hall atmosphere got and the play of Kern. We now have big college hoops personalities like Andy Katz advocating for more games inside Rec Hall, and that’s great for the future of Penn State Basketball. Plus, I’m going to put my hopes and dreams into Kern developing a jump shot and becoming a versatile scorer down the stretch of this season. After all, the NIT is still a longshot.
I’m now afraid that Penn State will suffer a letdown on Saturday against an Indiana team that appears to be cooked following home losses against Northwestern and Nebraska. The Hoosiers had a great opportunity to get into the bubble conversation with wins over the two teams that have struggled on the road all season long. Indiana was indeed favored in both games, but you would not know from the results. After being beaten soundly by Northwestern on soundly, Mike Woodson’s team was crushed by Nebraska 85-70 on Wednesday. The Hoosiers never had the lead and were bombarded by Nebraska’s three-point shooting. The Huskers took more than half their shots (33 out of 63) from beyond the arc and shot 42 percent from there with Jamarques Lawrence coming off the bench with 19 points on 5-for-5 three-point accuracy. Keisei Tominaga was “only” 4-for-9 from deep and he led Nebraska with 20 points. Indiana got a second straight 20-point performance from Mackenzie Mgbako, but its 4-for-21 shooting from three-point range was not enough to keep pace with Nebraska.
Keisei capped off a huge first half with this 3. 👌@KeiseiTominaga x @HuskerMBB pic.twitter.com/aRNyP5EBe7
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 22, 2024
Mike Woodson has got to be on the hot seat with Indiana continuing to disappoint its fans week after week, but the emergence of the freshman Mgbako and the recent good health of Kel’el Ware at least offer hope for the future. Indiana’s backcourt is still a mess with Xavier Johnson out due to injury and Gabe Cupps coming along slowly (he was shut out in two of his last three games), but these Hoosiers are still plenty talented enough to take out Penn State in the BJC. I’m hoping my Lions take care of business and bury the woeful Hoosiers, but despite our win in Bloomington weeks ago, it’s difficult to trust Penn State with its inconsistent play.
We also got three results on Thursday from the Big Ten, but none of them were very surprising. Purdue bounced back from its upset loss to Ohio State by blowing out Rutgers at Mackey Arena. The Boilers shot 59 percent against Rutgers’ normally stout defense, with freshman Camden Heide going 7-for-7 from the field and 4-for-4 from beyond the arc. Having another shooting option to compliment Zach Edey is not what opponents need to see from Purdue right now.
At the Barn, Minnesota pulled away from Ohio State in the second half and won 88-79 despite great games from Bruce Thornton (25 points, 10-for-14 field goals, 6 assists) and Jamison Battle (21 points, 5-for-10 from deep). The Buckeyes shot 51 percent, but the Gophers were even more effective on offense with Elijah Hawkins calling his own number for 24 points in addition to seven assists. Minnesota has now won two straight and five of seven, but an NCAA Tournament bid is still unlikely because of a poor non-conference resume.
With Ohio State and Penn State picking up big wins recently, Michigan is clearly at the bottom of the Big Ten. It stayed that way with a 76-62 loss at Northwestern in which the Wolverines briefly led in the second half before the Wildcats pulled away. Michigan shot the ball better than Northwestern with Nimari Burnett leading the way with 15 points on 6-for-8 shooting, but Nick Martinelli continued to be a beast on the offensive glass for Northwestern like he was in the win over Indiana. The Cats won the offensive rebounding battle 14-5 and the turnover battle 11-5 and ended up taking 20 more shots than Michigan. Boo Buie established himself as the Northwestern GOAT by taking over the all-time scoring lead, but Ryan Langborg has been just as key to their chances lately. He led the team with 20 points, knocked down five of his nine three-point attempts, and now has 46 points in his last two games.
It runs in the family 🤞 pic.twitter.com/SSYOa8TYZm
— Northwestern Basketball (@NUMensBball) February 23, 2024
It’s a light Saturday slate for the Big Ten with Penn State taking on Indiana and then Iowa visiting Illinois. The second game is way more interesting because the Hawkeyes have won two straight over Wisconsin and Michigan State while playing their best basketball of the season. A third straight Quad 1 win could force Iowa into some NCAA Tournament projections but it is not going to be easy in Champaign.
Take some time, after the Super Bowl and before the Tournament, to go back in your mind to the days when you woke pampered, protected and primed for creating you own play-by-play. Abe the Babe, ChabDog and his Uncle Abie, Well-read, DD and Get the Sensation Yorke invite you the “Ain’t That a Wonderment?” CDST Show. Taking stock of some hockey, as all those teams really start to jockey, the NBA finally gets off the pine built during the force-fed All-Star Break, and of course, it’s time to teach ourselves some college basketball….
I almost feel bad for Purdue fans even though they have a tremendous basketball team that will probably make the Final Four. No matter what the Boilers do in the regular season, there is nothing they can do to change their reputation as a team that collapses in the big moment. The only way to do that is to win in the NCAA Tournament. Whenever Purdue slips up this season, the doubters and haters (Indiana fans) come out of the woodwork to say “this is what will happen in March.”
I have said since November when Purdue won the Maui Invitational that this team reminds me of the 2019 Virginia team that bounced back and won the national championship after losing to a 16 seed the year before. Maybe Purdue will fulfill that prophecy, or maybe it will hilariously disappoint its rabid fans once again. On Sunday in Columbus, Matt Painter’s team gave us a preview of March or a blip on the radar, depending on your perspective. Despite shooting 20-for-20 from the free throw line and dominating the offensive glass like they always do, the Boilers lost 73-69 to an Ohio State team that was playing its first game since head coach Chris Holtmann was fired.
It didn’t help that Purdue turned the ball over 14 times, most notably when Zed Key poked the ball away from Zach Edey with less than a minute to play and the Boilers needing two points to tie the score. Purdue ended up fouling Jamison Battle, who helped put the game away at the charity stripe.
We're still thinking about Zed Key's impact in Ohio State's upset over then-No. 2 Purdue.
The F had a career-high 5️⃣ steals, to go along with nine points.@iamzedkey x @OhioStateHoops pic.twitter.com/XZBdxfJWt1
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 20, 2024
Just moments before, Purdue rallied to overcome a seven-point deficit and tied the game 65-65 on Lance Jones’ clutch three-point jumper, but Battle answered with a 15-foot jumper to ensure that Ohio State would not fall behind. The Buckeyes were boosted by Battle’s 19 points on 6-for-8 shooting as well as 26 points from a bench effort led by Key and Dale Bonner. Purdue, meanwhile, got its usual great effort from Edey (22 points, 7-for-11 shooting, 13 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks) but only four points from the bench. I still have no clue how Ethan Morton gets more than 10 minutes a game on team as talented as Purdue.
Ohio State interim head coach Jake Diebler made a great impression and he’ll have a case to keep the job full time with a few more wins down the stretch. I will feel very smart for talking about the potential of Ohio State’s young core if the team can upset Minnesota or Michigan State on the road.
Indiana blew a chance to join the bubble
Speaking of upsets, only one other Big Ten underdog won outright over the weekend. That was Northwestern defeating Indiana, but we can probably have a long argument over whether or not the Wildcats should have been considered the underdog in Bloomington. While they have been way more successful than Indiana this year and are projected to make the NCAA Tournament, Northwestern hasn’t impressed on the road. That’s why I saw this game as a great opportunity for Indiana to get a quality win and get into the bubble conversation. I should have known that the Hoosiers would waste it since they have shown so little heart and fight this season.
Indiana found a way to lose 76-72 while shooting 16 percent better than Northwestern (51 percent to 35 percent). It’s just another facepalm moment for Hoosiers fans who have suffered through a brutal campaign filled with disappointment after disappointment. Indiana lost the turnover battle 11-3 and the offensive rebounding battle 14-6 to the more disciplined and tougher Wildcats. Indiana shouldn’t be getting crushed on the glass like that in any game that Kel’el Ware plays 36 minutes in, but to Ware’s credit he collected 16 boards (four on offense) to go with his 22 points and four blocks. I guess no other Hoosiers wanted to rebound, so Nick Martinelli and Matthew Nicholson combined to create 10 second chances for Northwestern and they each had a double-double in this game.
The big star of the game for Northwestern, however, was Ryan Langborg. With Brooks Barnhizer and Boo Buie struggling for most of the game until Buie finally got going with eight straight points to put Indiana away, Langborg scored 26 points with six assists and zero turnovers while playing all 40 minutes. That’s the kind of effort the Wildcats need from the Princeton transfer down the stretch with Ty Berry missing the rest of the season due to injury.
Iowa makes its case for March Madness
While Indiana squandered its opportunity, the leading candidate for a seventh Big Ten team in the NCAA Tournament is now Iowa. The Hawkeyes picked up two huge wins over the last four days when they beat Wisconsin 88-86 in overtime on Saturday and followed that up with a big 78-71 road upset over Michigan State on Tuesday night. Just a week ago, Iowa had zero Quad 1 wins on its resume and now it has two. I’m still catching up with what a Quad 1 win is because I was just starting to figure out RPI when they got rid of that, but going from zero to two sounds like a big deal.
Even more impressive than Iowa’s recent results is that Fran McCaffery’s team got contributions from different players. In the home game against Wisconsin, it was all about Owen Freeman, Tony Perkins, and Josh Dix. Freeman was a force down low with 20 points scored on just six field goal attempts as well as 12 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks. It was the most complete game of the season for the likely Freshman of the Year in the Big Ten. Meanwhile, Dix was unstoppable from the mid-range with 17 points on 8-for-11 shooting while Perkins came up clutch down the stretch with 16 of his 18 points coming in the second half and overtime. He tied the score 78-78 with a driving left-handed layup at the end of regulation and then won it with one second left in overtime on another drive where he powered through a steal attempt by Chucky Hepburn.
It's a 🔟-0️⃣ @IowaHoops run. 💥
💻: Peacock pic.twitter.com/Hu31h8Nswg
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 21, 2024
The script was very different in East Lansing with Freeman only playing eight minutes due to foul trouble. Ben Krikke took over as the go-to guy down low and provided 18 points with 14 rebounds. Payton Sandfort only connected on two of his seven three-point attempts, but he did a great job getting to the basket and pacing Iowa’s transition offense with 22 points and six rebounds. During Iowa’s huge run at the end of the first half, Sandfort stole the ball and hit Patrick McCaffery for a breakaway dunk. The coach’s son would score 14 points off the bench and Iowa overcame a strong three-point shooting night by Michigan State with 51 percent overall shooting.
Iowa has a chance to pull off a third straight Quad 1 win when it visits Illinois on Saturday, and that promises to be another high-scoring affair played at a fast pace. A big game to watch this weekend!
Maryland is falling out of the at-large race
It looked like Maryland had the upper hand on Iowa to secure an NCAA Tournament bid when it came from behind to defeat the Hawkeyes last week, but since then the two programs’ fortunes have reversed. The Terps also had two chances at Quad 1 wins on Saturday and Tuesday, but they dropped both of them to Illinois and Wisconsin. Maryland’s hopes at an at-large bid are now dismal.
It’s not the Terps didn’t put up a fight. They were playing with heavy hearts against Illinois on Saturday following the death of legendary Maryland head coach Lefty Driesell, and while Kevin Willard’s bunch hung with the superior Illini throughout the second half, Illinois never surrendered the lead. Jahmir Young came awfully close, though, with around three minutes to play. Maryland was down by one and Coleman Hawkins tried to save his own rebound under the basket and blindly chuck the ball out to midcourt. Young was there to corral the wild pass, but his fast-break layup was thwarted by Marcus Domask’s defense. Justin Harmon picked the ball up and found Hawkins wide open on the other end of the court, where he dunked the ball and was fouled. Instead of Maryland taking a one-point lead, the Illini lead expanded to two possessions. That’s quite the swing in a game that was tight throughout, and the Terps didn’t get a better chance to pull even in the 85-80 defeat.
A HUGE sequence ended with a CLUTCH and-one Coleman Hawkins 👏@colehawk23 x @IlliniMBB pic.twitter.com/dLEVBB2a7w
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) February 18, 2024
It was a tough loss for Maryland, not just because it needed the game, but because the Terps are usually in great shape when they get solid production from Young, Julian Reese, and Donta Scott in the same game. All three guys did their thing on Saturday, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Illinois’ deep offense led by the amazing Terrence Shannon Jr. who scored 27 points and went 14-for-16 at the free throw line.
Illinois as a team went 32-for-36 at the stripe, and Maryland ran into a similar problem when it traveled to Madison for Tuesday’s tilt with the Badgers. Wisconsin closed the first half with a 37-29 lead thanks to a three-point shot by Chucky Hepburn and led by two or more possessions for most of the second half. Once again, the Terps could not keep their opponent off the free throw line, and Wisconsin shot 28-for-31 from there with Max Klesmit, Tyler Wahl, and John Blackwell doing most of the damage. The foul shot barrage made it impossible for Maryland to make a solid dent in Wisconsin’s second half advantage, even with Young, Reese, and Scott combining for 50 points. Tyler Wahl and his 18 points on 6-for-9 shooting held keep the Terps at bay before Klesmit put them away with a three-point shot in the final minute. Badgers won 74-70, but I’m still not convinced they have pulled out of their February slump. I need to see them win their next two at Indiana and vs. Illinois at home before I can say they are ready for March.
The Penn State disaster
I’m trying to cover the entire Big Ten, but I’m also a huge Penn State fan, so I don’t even know if Kanye Clary being removed from the Nittany Lion program is news that resonates beyond me. He was just a sophomore and Penn State’s best player. He was a foundational piece that Mike Rhoades could have built a program around. Now he is gone and we don’t know why. Yes, you can always find a patch in the transfer portal, but Clary was shaping up to be the type of player that you don’t just find a patch for. The good news is that Ace Baldwin Jr. is doing a good job as the floor general, and he might come back as a graduate student for one more season. The bad news is that Baldwin has not shot the ball well during Penn State’s three-game losing streak and the most recent game at Nebraska was not close for the second half.
Kanye Clary is no longer with the Penn State basketball program. This is awful for the future of the team since Clary had so much potential as a foundation piece. Maybe Ace Baldwin Jr. will return. Penn State needs him. #WeAre pic.twitter.com/H8ahHSMAzU
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) February 19, 2024
There’s not much to say about Nebraska from the 68-49 result. The Huskers took care of business at home like they always do and Keisei Tominaga hit a disgusting step-back three over Puff Johnson while leading Nebraska with 17 points. I guess it’s encouraging for Nebraska that it won handily while only shooting 4-for-21 from beyond the arc, but Penn State’s offense was so putrid that Zach Hicks led the team in scoring despite going 1-for-7 on his own three-point shots. I will be interested to see if Nebraska can finally win a conference road game tonight against the no-heart Hoosiers. Indiana is favored by one and a half as of this writing!
Penn State has Illinois at home and instead of the cavernous Bryce Jordan Center, the game will be played at Rec Hall, which will feel like an old-school basketball gym. The environment should give the Lions a better home-court advantage, but that probably still won’t be enough to make up for a big talent gap. The Illini are favored by seven and a half.
Best of the rest
Minnesota beat Rutgers 81-70 on Sunday, which ended a four-game winning streak for the Scarlet Knights. If Rutgers had come out on top, I might have to start considering them as a very dark horse to make a run on the bubble, but the Gophers helped me kick that can down the road with a fantastic offensive performance against one of the best defenses in the country. You just don’t see many teams shoot 51 percent against Rutgers, even in their own buildings. Minnesota turned the ball over 15 times, which helped Rutgers keep the game close in the first half, but the second half was all Gophers.
The Knights got 19 points each from Derek Simpson and Clifford Omoruyi, but Pharrel Payne had his best game of the season for Minnesota. Even with the Gophers shooting so well, Payne still found seven offensive rebounds and 11 total while scoring 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting with zero turnovers. If he can play like this more often, the frontcourt combo of Payne and Dawson Garcia will be a very tough one to deal with. Elijah Hawkins did a great job at point guard as well. He scored 16 points with six rebounds and seven assists. Minnesota as a team had 20 assists on 25 made baskets. Make Ben Johnson the Coach of the Year.
Finally, Michigan State handled Michigan 73-63 on Saturday night in Ann Arbor. The Spartans were dealing with a major upset scare, but the Wolverines failed to score for the final seven minutes while turning the ball over five times in a span of six possessions. That spurt of futility helped Michigan State close the game on a 10-0 and cover the spread in a game that looked like a disaster midway through the second half. With Sparty going on to lose at home against Iowa, we can now say this game said more about Michigan than Michigan State, and it said that Michigan is a tire fire.
Maryland Men’s Basketball just lost its standard-bearer and godfather today, with the passing of Coach Charles “Lefty” Driesell.
That man sold me on MD basketball the first time I saw him clap…. the way only Lefty could clap, and when
he assured us “Baby, I can coach”. No, the Terps never won it all under his reign, but his guys
did have plenty of powerful moments, and everybody … even Duke and the Heels learned to fear the turtle.
Lefty’s 1973 squad was a prime example… loaded with talent,
with plenty of heart, but just in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Driesell had a way with words, and he could certainly sell, but at his core he
was much more…. a born leader.
Wisconsin finally broke its four-game losing streak in very Wisconsin-like fashion on Tuesday night. It used solid defense and three-point shooting by Max Klesmit to close the first half on a 16-3 run that turned an 18-18 tie into a 34-21 advantage. Ohio State got within five points in the second half, but Chucky Hepburn answered with a three-point shot followed by a steal and a breakaway layup while the Buckeyes failed to score for seven straight minutes. When Bruce Thornton finally got his team back on the scoreboard with 1:36 to play, Hepburn responded with another triple to put the game away. Perhaps the most thrilling part of the game was Jamison Battle not scoring all game until he hit a three with 16 seconds left to cover the 9.5-point spread for Ohio State. Klesmit had a chance to expand the lead back to 10 points, but he missed the front end of a one-and-one and the Badgers settled for a 62-54 victory.
Chucky Hepburn creates so much offense with his defense. 💥@ChuckyHepburn x @BadgerMBB
💻: Peacock pic.twitter.com/Pdu8gNTINj
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 14, 2024
It wasn’t the most impressive win for Wisconsin since it came at home against Ohio State, but Greg Gard’s team will take what it can get after dropping games to Rutgers and Michigan on the road. The real excitement came on Wednesday when reports came out about Ohio State firing Chris Holtmann after six and a half seasons with the program. Holtmann made the NCAA Tournament four times (would have been five if not for the pandemic) in a row since taking over for Thad Matta in 2017. However, he never made the Sweet 16 and his highest seeded NCAA Tournament team was upset by Oral Roberts in the first round in 2021. 2023 was a disaster for Holtmann, as his team lost 14 of 15 games in the middle of conference play and finished 16-19 overall. It looked like everything would change this season, as Ohio State beat Alabama in November and improved to 12-2 when it defeated Rutgers on January 3. The Buckeyes have won just two games since, though, and athletic director Gene Smith has had enough of the losing.
I don’t blame Ohio State for expecting to make the NCAA Tournament every year. but I’m surprised Holtmann got fired when he has such a young and intriguing group of sophomores at the core of his team. Keeping a group of starters together for more than one season in today’s college basketball environment is rare, but I think Holtmann had something with Bruce Thornton, Roddy Gayle Jr., Felix Okpara, and Evan Mahaffey. They have not been winning much lately, but they are also playing in a league that’s full of fourth- and fifth-year players in the starting lineup. With the way they are all improving together as first-year starters, I wouldn’t be surprised if the group returned next season as juniors and finished in the top third of the Big Ten. With Holtmann gone, it’s more likely that the program will be reset under a new head coach who wants to bring in his own players.
In the other Big Ten game on Tuesday, Illinois destroyed Michigan 97-68 to bounce back from the loss it suffered at Michigan State on Saturday. It was a complete offensive performance by the Illini, and they shot 56 percent from the field as well as 48 percent from beyond the arc. Terrence Shannon Jr. played his best game since returning from suspension with 31 points on 11-for-15 shooting. Shannon is going to be impossible to stop when he’s knocking down three-point shots like he was against Michigan. There’s no way to close out on him without giving him a chance to explode to the rim.
Beautiful ball movement ➡️ TSJ 3-pointer
No. 14 @IlliniMBB is on fire. 🔥
💻: Peacock pic.twitter.com/obpalLW6BP
— Illinois on BTN (@IllinoisOnBTN) February 14, 2024
With Holtmann out at Ohio State, there will now be more attention paid to Juwan Howard’s seat and how warm it’s getting in Ann Arbor. Howard got off to a hot start in his tenure with a run to the Elite Eight in 2021 with a team led by Hunter Dickinson and Franz Wagner, but the next season he barely made the NCAA Tournament as an 11 seed before saving face with a surprise Sweet 16 appearance. However, Howard is now about to go two straight seasons without a tourney appearance that became routine under John Beilein. No one is going to say anything right away because Howard is a Michigan legend from the Fab Five and he just had open heart surgery in September, but this season has been an embarrassment for Wolverine fans, and Beilein is just sitting there on Big Ten Network… awkward.
Kevin Willard was another coach that I thought was in trouble this season. He’s only in his second season at Maryland, but expectations were high and his team has been pitiful on offense for most of the season. Still, the Terps could easily be trending towards the NCAA Tournament right now if they had just defeated Rutgers at home and Ohio State on the road. They blew both of those winnable games, but got back on track with a 78-66 comeback win over Iowa on Wednesday. I was all set to finally write Maryland off for good when it fell behind by 10 points with 12 minutes left on a dunk by Owen Freeman, but Willard rallied the troops and they went on a 21-6 run over the next seven minutes. Jahmir Young and Julian Reese did most of the damage, and when the dust had cleared, Maryland was rolling away with a win that it desperately needed. The Terps shot 57 percent while outscoring Iowa 47-29 in the second half.
Willard has had major issues finding offensive production from the two spots in his lineup not filled by Young, Reese, and Donta Scott, but it looks like Deshawn Harris-Smith might finally be breaking out. He played a major role in the win over Iowa with 17 points on 7-for-10 shooting in 32 minutes off the bench. That would be a huge lift to Maryland’s offense if it could get that output more often from the freshman.
What a nifty move from @TerrapinHoops' DeShawn Harris-Smith. 🌀 pic.twitter.com/NHdWBshmuz
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 15, 2024
From the Iowa perspective, this was a game that could have gone a long way towards its own tourney hopes. The Hawkeyes did not shoot well after the break, and Tony Perkins had a poor night against Maryland’s tough defense. You can usually count on the senior point guard for 15 to 20 points, but he scored just nine in College Park on 3-for-13 shooting. Also, Ben Krikke can apparently only score against my Nittany Lions. In the two games since he exploded for 22 points in Happy Valley, Krikke has combined for just 17 points. He looked like Iowa’s best player back in November, but he’s been very quiet in some of these Big Ten games. With the next three games against Wisconsin, Michigan State, and Illinois, Iowa’s NCAA Tournament hopes are looking bleak.
Also on Wednesday night, Penn State lost at home to Michigan State 80-72. The game wasn’t really that close, as the Spartans led by double digits for almost all of the second half. They first started to pull away in the first half when Penn State turnovers led to some easy transition buckets for Michigan State. With four wins in its last five games, Tom Izzo’s team is rounding into form, and this win was especially encouraging because Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard combined for just 10 points. Michigan State still shot 51 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range thanks to Malik Hall posting his best game of the season and Jaden Akins pouring on 20 points. Hall is such an important player for the Spartans because he’s their only consistent post threat on a team that plays three guards for most of the time. Hall’s talents were on full display against my Nittany Lions as he showed off his scoring in the post and his ability to stretch out the defense and shoot from mid-range and beyond. A brand like Michigan State doesn’t sneak up on anyone, but this team seems to be peaking at the right time and it could end up with a deceptively low seed in March.
Malik Hall has been hot for @MSU_Basketball in the second half. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/eId47Q2k4P
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 15, 2024
For Penn State, it sucks to lose that badly when you have good shooting nights like we got from Zach Hicks (5-for-6 from deep) and Nick Kern (2-for-2 from deep, 6-for-7 overall), but getting stops was a major issue and 15 turnovers was too much when Michigan State was looking to run off of every change in possession. Ace Baldwin Jr. and D’Marco Dunn both played poorly, and that won’t lead to wins while Kanye Clary is still on the mend. Clary at least looked a little healthier against Sparty with eight points and five assists in 23 minutes. Maybe this weekend he can return to the starting lineup.
This weekend promises to be another exciting one in the Big Ten with all 14 teams in action, but Thursday wasn’t so bad either. The night started with Northwestern visiting Rutgers and we got to see just how far Boo Buie can carry a team. Not only did we learn before the game that Ty Berry would miss the rest of the season with a torn meniscus, but Ryan Langborg was ejected on a Flagrant 2 foul in the first half when he elbowed Jamichael Davis in the ball sack. Chris Collins already ran a pretty shallow rotation, so now he had to dust off freshman guard Jordan Clayton and Justin Mullins, a sophomore wing who transferred from Denver.
Absolutely nuts that Ryan Langborg got ejected for this.
Northwestern got shafted. pic.twitter.com/wA45500Vld
— Ben Stevens (@BenScottStevens) February 16, 2024
Northwestern fans have apparently been clamoring for Collins to play Mullins more all season. He showed off some skill and athleticism with eight points and four blocked shots while Boo Buie proved that it really is possible to shoot well inside Jersey Mike’s Arena. He led the Wildcats to a 34-27 halftime lead and finished with 27 points on 6-for-10 shooting from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, Buie only had one assist because no one else on his team could hit a shot. With Berry and Langborg out, Northwestern needed Brooks Barnhizer and Nick Martinelli to step up, but they combined to shoot 6-for-24 and score 17 points.
Despite the offensive struggles, Northwestern held off Rutgers for much of the second half. It looked like the Scarlet Knights were taking control when Clifford Omoruyi took a Derek Simpson pass and slammed the ball home while being fouled by Martinelli. The subsequent free throw tied the score at 44-44, but Northwestern countered with seven straight points. However, the Wildcats ended up being stuck on 51 points for more than six minutes while Rutgers rallied past them and took the lead on Simpson’s pull-up jumper with five minutes to play. The Knights would lead by as many as five, but Northwestern fought back and tied the game when Barnhizer knocked down a wide open three thanks to a defensive collapse by Rutgers. The Wildcats could not build on it, though. Aundre Hyatt answered with a triple of his own to send the fans home happy with a 63-60 Rutgers victory.
The Knights have now won four straight games since Jeremiah Williams made his season debut on February 3. Williams does a little bit of everything and his steady hand at point guard allows Simpson to work off the ball more. Against Northwestern, Williams led the Knights with 15 points and five assists while adding five rebounds and three blocks.
Our last Big Ten game before the weekend featured Minnesota and Purdue. I thought I would be able to turn it off early based on how dominant the Boilers have been at Mackey Arena, but the Gophers nearly pulled off the biggest upset of the conference slate. This game was wild with both teams leading by 10 points at different times. Purdue jumped out to a 16-5 lead in the first five minutes on a Lance Jones three-point shot, but Minnesota got hot from beyond the arc and stormed back to take an eight-point lead at halftime. The Boilers fell behind by 10 on the first possession of the second half thanks to Pharrel Payne’s layup, but they would never trail by more than that. Minnesota’s three-point shooting cooled off and Mason Gillis came up big off the bench for Purdue with four three-point field goals and three assists throughout the game.
The effort from Edey. 💪@zach_edey x @BoilerBall pic.twitter.com/XRlH7YYdcU
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 16, 2024
Dawson Garcia got hurt in the brutal collapse against Iowa, but he looked perfectly healthy in this one and scored 24 points while refusing to let the Gophers fade away. They closed within two points with four minutes to play, but Edey and Gillis countered with clutch buckets to finally close the door on Minnesota and keep Purdue undefeated at home this season.
Weekend of hoops
Has Wisconsin truly righted the ship after defeating the lowly Buckeyes? We’ll find out when the Badgers visit Iowa on Saturday to face a Hawkeyes team that cannot afford to lose. Like Iowa, Maryland is another squad that has a chance to defeat a ranked opponent at home and boost its NCAA Tournament chances. The Terps get a stiff test with Illinois in town.
On Sunday, Minnesota looks to bounce back from two tough road losses with a home game against Rutgers, but can the Scarlet Knights be cooled off? We’ll also get to see if Indiana can stick in the NCAA Tournament conversation. The Hoosiers can give their resume a boost by beating Northwestern, and the Wildcats have proven to be vulnerable on the road even with Ty Berry in the lineup.
Whether you loved or hated last week’s result, this week’s “Helter-Skelce” CDST Show may well be just the cathartic cleanse the Dr. ordered. This week we welcome Abe Miranda to the Hermosa Beach studios, along with Kansas City Chiefs superfan cousin Wayne, the Pickle Ball king of Lee’s Summit, who’s sitting on top of the world after this year’s title run. We’ll break down last week’s game, along with college b-ball and the NBA. Plus a little more Travis than you may have bargained for.
I thought Michigan State had a chance to be a home underdog against Illinois on Saturday afternoon. The Illini might be ranked 10th in the AP Poll, but Michigan State is not far behind in terms of talent and it was playing at home. I was ready to jump all over the Spartans if the line was close to zero. It’s hard to fool the books, though. Michigan State was favored by three and a half when I checked in on Saturday morning. I said “screw it” and took Sparty anyway. Tom Izzo’s team was rounding into form and needed this win for its NCAA Tournament resume.
Laying the points didn’t look like a great decision for much of the afternoon, especially when Marcus Domask knocked down a three-point shot to put Illinois ahead 72-64 with less than eight minutes to play. The Spartans owned the rest of the game, though. A.J. Hoggard stepped up with a three of his own in transition and then scored three the old fashioned way with a great head fake on Coleman Hawkins in the paint. The “and one” free throw tied the score at 72-72, but Michigan State wasn’t done. Malik Hall hit a big driving layup plus the foul to put Sparty ahead, and Tyson Walker stole the ball and put in a breakaway layup to help his team pull away and win 88-80. Great teams cover.
A.J. HOGGARD TIES IT UP AT 72 😤 pic.twitter.com/T1HYktWnb9
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) February 10, 2024
It was a rare performance by Michigan State that saw the Big Three of Walker, Hoggard, and Hall all play like a Big Three at the same time. Hoggard and Hall combined for 45 points with Hall going 7-for-9 from the field and Hoggard adding five assists. That meant that Walker didn’t have to break his back carrying the offense. The effort by Sparty was enough to overcome a 28-point, 7-rebound effort from Terrence Shannon Jr. Illinois might have been a little too perimeter-oriented in this one with half of its field goal attempts coming from three-point range. While the Illini shot 11-for-30 from beyond the arc, Michigan State got work done in the paint while going 5-for-8 from downtown. Efficiency!
The only other exciting game on Saturday came from a surprising place: Columbus, Ohio! Maryland had a chance to pick up an impressive road win against an Ohio State squad that is every bubble team’s dream. That’s because the Buckeyes are a lousy team that for some reason has a strong NET rating. Beating them will look good to the nerds on the NCAA Tournament selection committee even though it’s not that hard to do so. Even my Nittany Lions beat Ohio State (although we also lost to them on the road). Sounds like a great opportunity for the Terps, right! That is correct, but Maryland blew it anyway even though Ohio State only led for five minutes during the game that ended up going into double overtime.
It was a duel between shoot-first point guards as Jahmir Young and Bruce Thornton posted nearly identical stat lines. Young scored 26 points points with seven rebounds and four assists while Thornton had 24 points, seven rebounds, and four assists while shooting a better percentage. It was Thornton who was the most clutch performer, as well. He tied the game at 61-61 on a three-point shot with one minute left in regulation and also tied the score at 71-71 with a layup near the end of the first overtime. On both occasions, Maryland had a chance following Thornton’s equalizer to take the lead with free throws, but both times the Terps failed miserably. Donta Scott, who otherwise had a solid game with 19 points on 5-for-9 shooting, missed a pair at the end of the second half and Julian Reese clanked both of his at the end of the first overtime.
If that wasn’t bad enough, Maryland had a chance to send the game to triple overtime after Thornton came up big again and gave the Buckeyes a 77-75 lead, but Scott’s layup attempt was blocked by Zed Key. That led to a breakaway for Ohio State and a thunderous dunk by Roddy Gayle Jr. that put the game away. Brutal, brutal loss for the Terrapins.
Blowouts galore
The rest of the Saturday slate was filled with three blowouts, but at least one of them was somewhat surprising. I thought Wisconsin had a decent chance to end its three-game losing streak at Rutgers, but the beatings will continue for the Badgers as they fell 78-56 thanks to a surprisingly hot shooting day from the Scarlet Knights. They went 10-for-17 from beyond the arc with half the makes coming from Noah Fernandes, who has been very inconsistent this season. On Saturday, he was as consistent as you can possibly be, going 6-for-6 from the field for 17 points off the bench. Wisconsin fell behind 9-0 right from the jump and appeared rattled by the arena formerly known as the RAC. The Badgers had 11 of their 12 turnovers come in the first half and fell behind 37-28 at the break.
The second half didn’t go any better for Wisconsin thanks to Clifford Omoruyi blocking eight shots and grabbing 13 rebounds. That defense helped limit Steven Crowl and Tyler Wahl to seven points each, and we just blogged last week about how Wisconsin needs to get more out of Wahl to snap this skid. While the Badgers are scuffling, the Knights are surging with three straight wins since my Lions crushed them by 15 points. A big reason why is the return of Jeremiah Williams, who missed all of last season with an Achilles injury at Iowa State and 20 games of this season due to a gambling suspension. Rutgers is still glad they called that guy, because he has scored in double figures in all three of his appearances, which have coincided with the winning streak. Against Wisconsin, Williams led Rutgers with 18 points and seven assists.
Purdue is beating Indiana so badly that Zach Edey hit his first career three-pointer to impress NBA scouts… hope he called bank. pic.twitter.com/NXouqWMM2W
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) February 11, 2024
The other two blowouts weren’t of the upset variety. Purdue and Nebraska both destroyed their feeble opponents by the score of 79-59, and both games weren’t really that close. Purdue beat Indiana so badly that Zach Edey fired off a three-point shot in the second half, and it went in off the backboard for his first career three-point field goal. The Hoosiers got a boost before the game when Kel’el Ware was healthy enough to play, and his dunk made the score 20-18 Purdue midway through the first half, but the Boilers went to break on a 15-1 run and exploded out of halftime with 10 more consecutive points to end the competitive portion of the contest. It was the first time since 1993-94 that Purdue has defeated Indiana twice in a season by 20 or more points. As ugly that is for Indiana, it can reenter the NCAA Tournament discussion if it wins its next two games against Northwestern and Nebraska. Both games are at Assembly Hall, and both opponents have struggled mightily on the road this season.
I supposed that brings us to Nebraska’s win over Michigan. The Huskers ended any sort of confidence boost the Wolverines might have gotten from their upset of Wisconsin and continued home dominance in Pinnacle Bank Arena. Nebraska went up by double digits in the first seven minutes and led by 30 within 15 minutes. It was never close. Keisei Tominaga led everyone with 19 points and shot 8-for-14 from the field while Michigan as a team shot 32 percent. Olivier Nkamhoua had just three points on 1-for-10 shooting.
Not so fun Sunday
Sunday proved me right when it came to not entertaining any NCAA Tournament talk for Penn State. We lost 68-63 at Northwestern despite holding the Wildcats to 32 percent shooting. Remember, that’s what Michigan shot when it lost to Nebraska by a million. The rebounding monster reared its ugly head again for the Nittany Lions. Northwestern grabbed 13 of its missed compared to just three offensive boards for Penn State. Ty Berry was out of action for the Wildcats, but Kanye Clary is still clearly bothered by whatever injury he has because he went 0-for-3 with 0 points in just 14 minutes off the bench. Ace Baldwin Jr. continued to carry the load at point guard, but his shooting cooled off. He went 4-for-13 from the field and did not make a three until it was too late for the Lions to come back.
The silver lining for Penn State was Nick Kern Jr.’s great performance. He has shown the ability to get to the rim all season, but he really flashed it on Sunday with 18 points on 7-for-9 shooting to go with seven rebounds and three assists. With four minutes to play, Baldwin stole the ball and set up Kern with a breakaway layup to bring Penn State to within a point at 54-53, but Northwestern got its act together following a timeout. First, Ryan Langborg got wide open for a three-point shot that turned a one-score game into a two-score game. Then, Baldwin through the ball away. The Wildcats got it back and Matthew Nicholson got a free path for a dunk when Qudus Wahab was too aggressive defending what he thought was a hand-off to Boo Buie.
Even the best teams have trouble in Welsh-Ryan Arena this season, but it is still a stinging loss for Penn State because the game was close late and you have to take advantage of a rare poor shooting game from Buie and company.
1⃣3⃣-0⃣ run 💥@IowaHoops has come all the way back to take its first lead since it was 2-0. pic.twitter.com/qkZhiE21Ej
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) February 11, 2024
At least Penn State’s loss was not as bad as Minnesota’s loss at Iowa later in the afternoon. The Gophers went up 62-42 on a Mike Mitchell Jr. three-point shot with 16 minutes left, but then Dawson Garcia left the game due to injury and everything fell apart for the road team. Garcia was having a ridiculous game with 18 points on 7-for-8 shooting, seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. That is beyond dominant in just 25 minutes of game, but a 20-point lead is a 20-point lead and Minnesota still blew it. Payton Sandfort and Patrick McCaffery were the two biggest factors in Iowa’s wild comeback with Sandfort giving the Hawkeyes a 78-77 lead on a driving layup with four and a half minutes left. He followed that up with a three-point shot to cap a 16-0 Iowa run and the Gophers did not recover. Iowa won 90-85 with Minnesota only covering the 7.5-point spread because Mitchell hit a “meaningless” three-point shot in the final seconds. I don’t even know if that’s a bad beat for Iowa backers or a narrowly-avoided bad beat for Minnesota backers. Going from being up 20 in the second half to not covering a three-possession spread would be upsetting to say the least.
The week of ball
The Big Ten is back in action on Tuesday night with Michigan visiting Illinois and Ohio State heading to Wisconsin. The Illini are expected to hammer Michigan while the Badgers are still looking to break that losing streak. Ohio State is as good a team as there is for that to happen, but Wisconsin has had trouble with attacking guards like Kanye Clary and Dug McDaniel, and Bruce Thornton is a similar type of player. On the other hand, three of the four Wisconsin losses in this streak have come on the road, with only Purdue defeating the Badgers in Madison. Wisconsin has to take care of business tonight.
Wednesday features Michigan State at Penn State and Iowa at Maryland. The Lions have been tough at home, but it feels like Sparty is gearing up for March, so I think Tom Izzo’s team wins a close one. Iowa and Maryland are two teams that are running out of chances to make a run at the NCAA Tournament, and whoever loses this one will be heartbroken. I will go with Maryland’s defense and home court over Iowa’s offense.
On Thursday Northwestern looks to prove itself on the road against Rutgers and if the Knights win, we might have to pay some serious attention to them. On the other hand, their non-conference resume is almost as weak as Penn State’s, so I will probably have to pump the brakes on them as well. Keep watching Jeremiah Williams because he is a major factor in Rutgers’ turnaround. In the other Thursday game, Minnesota should get destroyed by Purdue, especially if Dawson Garcia is ruled out. If it gets out of hand, I will look for Edey to try another three and prop up his NBA Draft stock.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) celebrates after the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. The Kansas City Chiefs won 25-22 against the San Francisco 49ers. (AP Photo/John Locher)
SF didn’t close the barn door, and look what crept through… talk about getting shot by the foot, or on the foot… a title vanishes for the 0 for 3 in the 21st Century Niners, when the offense goes to sleep for just a little too long. And it was the little things, like kicking and special teams, along with having the best player on your side, that made all the difference. KC may well have made that touchdown on the final drive of regulation… we’ll never know. All we know is that missed extra point meant the Chiefs got into overtime, and that was all they needed. And yes, 3 in 4 years does make a dynasty.
Tune in to ChabDog Sports Talk’s “Black Sunday Segue” Show. Your mind, it’ll blow. And before you go whole hog in with the Niners, fully consider the sidewinding destruction to be wrought by the sidearm slings of Sideshow bobbing and lobbing Phat Pat. Plus prop bets that will shock and appall you.
Plus A-ron’s on when it comes to Big 10 hoops, Abe previews a new tight fitting shirt themed circa 1990s, Well-read has a new doo, and Dorothy Dawn teaches us more about nutrition.
I’m still not entertaining any NCAA Tournament talk with regards to my Penn State Nittany Lions. Too much damage has been done to the resume from inexplicably losing a buy game to Bucknell to going winless in Disney World to dropping overtime games against Maryland and Georgia Tech. It’s going to take way more than a Big Ten record that is one or two games above .500, even though that would be an impressive accomplishment for Mike Rhoades in his first season as head coach.
That said, the three-game winning streak that Penn State is on has been an awesome ride, and it was a lot of fun to watch it continue as the Lions pulled away from Iowa during the final four minutes on Thursday night. Ace Baldwin Jr. took over the game with 13 points and a pair of huge steals during the stretch and Penn State outscored Iowa 18-8 to finish with an 89-79 victory. I don’t expect seniors like Baldwin to take massive leaps with their game, but Baldwin looks like a different player than he was at the start of the season. He’s in control of the offense and red hot from three-point range. What’s crazy is that Baldwin was 0-for-13 from beyond the arc from the win against Rider on December 29 to the blowout loss at Purdue on January 13. Since then, he’s gone 16-for-26 in six games. It makes a big difference when opponents have to respect a point guard’s three-point shot. Opportunities for other players have opened up, and Baldwin has no problem sharing the rock when he needs to.
Ace Baldwin dishing dimes out like he’s a bank teller pic.twitter.com/uoVEWV4dw2
— Barstool Penn State (@PSUBarstool) February 9, 2024
One of those players with more opportunities has been Qudus Wahab. He’s averaging 13 points per game over his last four games after a three-game stretch in which he scored exactly four points in each one. With Zach Hicks living on the perimeter and Nick Kern operating with the dribble drive, Wahab is the only Penn State big man who is a post threat, but he’s been an excellent one lately with 13 of his 16 field goals going in. Thanks to Baldwin finding some range and Wahab executing down low, the Lions have a pretty deep and versatile offense that will hopefully continue giving opponents problems down the stretch.
The defense is a different story, though. I was pleasantly surprised by Penn State’s rebounding against Iowa, but the Hawkeyes still shot 56 percent from the field with Ben Krikke going 10-for-18 on his way to 22 points. Iowa might have won if not for Payton Sandfort getting banged up and going 2-for-7 from deep. Iowa as a team only shot 27 percent from three-point range compared to 52 percent for Penn State, and it’s safe to say that was a difference maker. We saw from the Indiana game that defending big centers is an issue for Penn State that probably won’t be going away, but the Lions have shot the three so well lately that it hasn’t mattered. It also helps when you win the turnover battle as often as Penn State has this season.
While Penn State has won three straight, the mighty Wisconsin Badgers have lost three in a row. It wasn’t alarming when they dropped an overtime game at Nebraska. Sure, the Badgers blew a 16-point halftime lead, but no one wins at Pinnacle Bank Arena. It also wasn’t alarming when Wisconsin lost at home to Purdue because it was a close game and the Boilers are considered by some to be the best team in the land. What was alarming was when Wisconsin went into Ann Arbor on Wednesday night and lost 72-68 to a Michigan team that was on a five-game losing streak and couldn’t hold a halftime lead against anyone.
The Wolverines went ahead by nine in the first half because Wisconsin couldn’t stop Dug McDaniel from getting to the rim, but the Badgers narrowed the deficit to four before the break. It looked like a typical Michigan loss when AJ Storr made a layup to put Wisconsin ahead 48-44 with 13:47 to play, but Michigan showed some heart and regained the lead on a sweep Olivier Nkamhoua fade-away less than two minutes later. Juwan Howard’s team would hold the lead for the rest of the game thanks to a pair of big three-point shots from bench star Will Tschetter. Part of the reason for Wisconsin’s slump has been poor three-point shooting, and it showed in this one. The Badgers shot 26 percent from deep with only seven assists on 25 made baskets, so it wasn’t surprising when Chucky Hepburn missed his game-tying attempt from the top of the key with 27 seconds remaining.
A bright stop for Wisconsin has been Tyler Wahl, who was a beast with a career-high 20 points in the losing effort against Purdue. He was also very effective at Michigan with 12 points on 6-for-7 shooting, but that just makes me think he wasn’t involved enough. Either Wahl has to get the ball more often when he’s scoring that effectively, or he has to use his presence to find buckets for teammates. Against Purdue, Wahl got his points and also dished out five assists, but at Michigan, he only had two assists.
The Kohl Center is HYPED after this Tyler Wahl shot⚡ pic.twitter.com/smWzTHcV0G
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) February 4, 2024
It will be very interesting to see what Wisconsin looks like when it visits Rutgers on Saturday. The venue formerly known as the RAC is someplace you really don’t want to be when you’re not shooting the ball well. Pretty much no one hits shots in that arena, including the home team. However, Rutgers is coming off two straight road wins, so the fans should be more jacked up for an upset than usual. They will smell blood if Wisconsin gets off to a slow start.
Meanwhile, Michigan will try to build off its win, but good luck with that in Lincoln. There is a lot of pressure on Nebraska to keep winning at home since the team fails to win on the road time and time again. Now would be a very bad time for the Huskers to start losing at Pinnacle Bank Arena since they are coming off consecutive road defeats at Illinois and Northwestern.
While the loss in Champaign was a little encouraging because Nebraska was such a big underdog and it battled to force overtime, the loss in Evanston was not so much. Nebraska trailed for the entire game against Northwestern and the deficit was at least 10 points for the entire second half while playmakers Rienk Mast and Keisei Tominaga wilted under the bright lights of Welsh-Ryan Arena. When I took Nebraska +5.5, I expected much more from those two who were such key factors in the Huskers forcing overtime against the Illini. Instead, the dynamic pair combined for just 19 points and Juwan Gary and Brice Williams were forced to carry the load for Nebraska. It wasn’t enough with the Wildcats shooting 44 percent from three-point range and Northwestern won comfortably 80-68.
Weekend hoops
Beside Wisconsin at Rutgers and Michigan at Nebraska, there are five other Big Ten games on this weekend, with the two biggest being Illinois at Michigan State and Indiana at Purdue. For the latter, the Boilers will be heavily favored to crush the Hoosiers like they did when the two rivals met in Bloomington last month. Indiana is desperate for a win, though, and it showed some mettle in a comeback victory over Ohio State on Tuesday. A lot rides on the health of Kel’el Ware, though. If he’s healthy, Indiana has a snowball’s chance.
Illinois at Michigan State promises to be a much tighter game since the first meeting was also tight. The Illini won that exciting back-and-forth contest 71-68, but they were without the services of Terrence Shannon Jr. Is Shannon worth more than the Spartans’ home court, though? Michigan State has been money in the Breslin Center since the start of the new year. If the bookmakers make Sparty an underdog, that would be a gambling opportunity.
How is Purdue going to blow it this year? That question is getting tougher and tougher to figure out as the Boilermakers keep winning big games in the Big Ten. Their latest triumph came on Sunday with a 75-69 victory over second-place Wisconsin in Madison. Turns out it is really dumb to bet against the projected number one overall NCAA Tournament seed when it is getting points, even in a tough road environment. Purdue had its chances to wilt in this one, but Lance Jones came up big whenever the Badgers got close, and the Boilers were able to hold onto the lead for the entire second half. If Purdue makes the Final Four like it should, we’ll point to Jones as the key difference between this year’s team and last year’s team that flopped in the first round. Jones hit a huge three-point shot to double Purdue’s lead when Wisconsin got within 52-49 with 9:20 to play.
The Badgers got within two at the 4:50 mark when Tyler Wahl grabbed his own rebound and turned it into a layup. It looked like Wisconsin might stage a late rally when Zach Edey missed a free throw, but Mason Gillis picked up the rebound and kicked the ball out to Jones, who drove to the bucket for a layup that put Purdue up by multiple scores for the rest of the game. Wahl almost turned it into a one-score game with a minute to play, but after grabbing yet another offensive rebound (he had six in the game), he got trapped under the basket and his pass was intercepted by Jones, who put the game away with a breakaway layup.
Lance Jones is strong. 😤@LanceBUckets x @BoilerBall
📺: CBS pic.twitter.com/YXrH5RbjEK
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 4, 2024
Not only did Jones lead the Boilers with 20 points, but his defense was important to locking down the Wisconsin backcourt. AJ Storr shot just 4-for-15 from the field and Chucky Hepburn was 1-for-6. Wahl might have been more impressive than Jones with all those offensive rebounds to go with 20 points, five assists, three steals, and two blocks. This guy went straight at Edey for much of the afternoon and still shot 10-for-16 from the field. It’s too bad for the Badgers that none of their other players stepped up in a big way, while Jones had plenty of help from Edey (18 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks) and Braden Smith (19 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals).
The win moves Purdue to one game above Wisconsin and Illinois in the loss column with eight games left on the Boilers’ Big Ten slate. They’re in great position to win a second straight regular season title, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them end February at 15-2 with a relatively light schedule ahead.
Nebraska comes oh so close to a big road win
Nebraska would already be a lock for the NCAA Tournament if only it could pull out one of these road games. Alas, the Huskers stand at 6-6 in the conference with six wins at home and six losses on the road. Champaign usually isn’t a great place to go for road wins, but Nebraska stormed back from a 10-point deficit in the final three and a half minutes to take the lead on a Rienk Mast hook shot with nine seconds left. Marcus Domask drew a foul on the other end for Illinois, and he split the foul shots to send the game to overtime.
This is a Ty Rodgers appreciation post. 🙌@Ty_rodgers20 x @IlliniMBB pic.twitter.com/6WBMjQcfIE
— Illinois on BTN (@IllinoisOnBTN) February 5, 2024
The extra period got off to a good start for the Illini, as Coleman Hawkins found Quincy Guerrier on the wing for a three-point shot that put them up 79-75 with 3:40 on the clock. Keisei Tominaga struck back with perhaps his most beautiful three-point jumper of the night, and there were a lot of them. The Japanese sharpshooter has been dormant lately with just 14 combined points in his last three games, but against Illinois he erupted for 31 points on 5-for-7 shooting from deep. Tominaga’s heroics led the Huskers having a 43 percent to 27 percent advantage in three-point shooting, but Illinois made up for it by winning the offensive rebounding battle 17-5. The biggest factor in that category was Ty Rodgers, who grabbed five offensive rebounds and 14 overall to go with eight points, three assists, and three steals. Rodgers is a weird guard-forward hybrid who is the only member of Illinois’ starting five who can’t shoot the three, but he’s also a great defensive player and classic glue guy who does what his team needs to achieve victory.
Anyway, after Tominaga’s big shot, the Illini lead bounced back and forth between three and one until Terrence Shannon Jr. stole the ball from Rienk Mast in the final seconds. Shannon dribbled around until just over one second was remaining, and it’s a good thing he did, because he ended up missing both foul shots once the Huskers caught up with him. The two misses allowed Tominaga one last chance from beyond halfcourt, but he didn’t even get the shot away in time and Illinois escaped with an 87-84 win.
Michigan has its most impressive collapse yet
We’ve seen Michigan blow a second half lead before. In fact, this 69-59 loss to Rutgers that it suffered on Saturday was the 11th straight game in which it was outscored after the half. Still, there is something to be said for blowing a 15-point lead to the worst offense in the conference. The Wolverines ended the first half in style with an Olivier Nkamhoua buzzer-beating dunk following a steal by Terrance Williams II. The momentum continued in the second half, and Michigan took a 47-32 lead after Dug McDaniel hit a step-back three and Nkamhoua took a backdoor pass from Tarris Reed Jr. and turned it into a reverse layup plus the foul.
Rutgers’ usually dreadful offense got a lift from Derek Simpson, who scored 19 points in the game to double his scoring average with 14 of them coming in the second half. Simpson hit a big three with seven minutes left that narrowed the deficit to three points and started an 18-2 run that the Scarlet Knights ended the game with. During that span, Simpson came through again with an 18-foot jumper that he crushed while getting fouled for an old fashioned three-point play.
Even with Simpson playing some solid ball, Rutgers still only went 2-for-13 from beyond the arc and 40 percent overall. However, the Knights forced 19 turnovers and grabbed 15 offensive rebounds, with five of them coming as part of Clifford Omoruyi’s 15-point, 11-rebound double-double.
Penn State might have ended Indiana’s hopes
It has been a rough season for Indiana, but Mike Woodson’s squad appeared to be getting back on track following three straight losses to the top three teams in the Big Ten. The Hoosiers took care of business at home against Iowa, and got off to a good start against Penn State. I thought my Nittany Lions were done for when Malik Reneau and Kel’el Ware scored three-point plays on consecutive possessions to put Indiana up 10 points with five minutes left in the first half. However, Penn State hung in the game thanks to some great point guard play by Ace Baldwin Jr. and some surprising accurate three-point shooting led by Jameel Brown going 4-for-5 from deep off the bench.
Even though Penn State only trailed by four at the break, it still felt like Indiana had a big advantage because of how unstoppable Ware was in the first half. That thought changed when Penn State came out like gangbusters and outscored the Hoosiers 25-10 in the first 10 minutes of the second half. The Lions held Ware to eight points in the second after he dominated for 17 in the first, and they were never threatened after D’Marco Dunn and Brown hit back-to-back threes to go up by 11 with 12 minutes left.
“Ok boys line up”..
First .. everyone bring your check book…all NIL money returned
Second.. we’re gonna practice until half of you quit…
Third..move your shit out of “Cook Hall”.. into the horseshit football facility
If your gonna play like that sorry ass program that’s where…— Dan Dakich (@dandakich) February 3, 2024
The 85-71 win was Penn State’s first at Assembly Hall in 10 years, and Indiana fans did not take it well. This game was supposed to be a launching pad for the Hoosiers to get rolling and play their way onto the NCAA Tournament bubble. Instead, they still have a lot of work to do with a trip to Purdue coming up on Saturday. If Indiana doesn’t turn this around and make the big dance, Mike Woodson will be feeling the heat.
Woodson’s chair cooled down a little on Tuesday night when the Hoosiers overcome a 13-point halftime deficit and earned a huge 76-73 road win plus a season sweep over Ohio State. Malik Reneau (26 points, 14 rebounds) and Trey Galloway (25 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists) carried the Indiana offense for most of the second half, but it was hometown hero Anthony Leal who dealt the decisive blow with a tide-turning three-point shot from the corner after the Ohio State defense collapsed on Galloway. Leal’s clutch shot gave Indiana a one-point lead, and it held on for the desperately needed victory after Jamison Battle lost the ball off his foot on Ohio State’s penultimate possession.
Following Battle’s turnover, Galloway threw the ball ahead to Ware for an apparent breakaway layup, but he hurt his leg during his finger roll attempt and it fell off the rim. The good news is that Leal tracked down the ball to avoid Ohio State getting a chance to win the game. The bad news is that if Ware is injured again, that’s not great for Indiana’s chances against Purdue and beyond.
Minnesota is back to being frisky
Back in early January when the Gophers had rolled off seven straight wins and jumped out to a 3-1 start in Big Ten play, it looked like they had a chance at an NCAA Tournament run. Four straight losses did a lot to change that, especially since Minnesota has zero impressive wins outside of league play. The tide is starting to turn again, though. Minnesota picked up a comeback road win at Penn State to close out January, and on Saturday it defeated Northwestern 75-66 at home.
Ryan Langborg put Northwestern up by eight with less than six minutes to play by drilling two three-point shots in a row, but that wasn’t enough to kill Ben Johnson’s team. It battled back to take the lead on a Cam Christie three with 44 seconds left before Boo Buie sent the game to overtime with a pair of free throws. Buie had a typical 20 points and seven assists in The Barn, but Minnesota’s Elijah Hawkins provided his own solid point guard play with 13 points and 10 assists. However, it was Dawson Garcia who carried the Gophers to victory in overtime with seven straight points while the entire Northwestern team scored just five.
Garcia was back at it with 10 points in another Minnesota come-from-behind win on Tuesday against Michigan State, but it was Cam Christie who made the biggest difference. He scored 19 points and shot 5-for-7 from beyond the arc and helped the Gophers climb out of a 45-36 hole with 13 minutes to play. Garcia hit a three-point shot of his own to put Minnesota ahead 55-52 with 1:27 on the clock, but A.J. Hoggard was fouled while shooting a three to give Sparty an opportunity to tie the game. Hoggard hit the first two shots but missed the third, and the Gophers picked up a 59-56 win that is their strongest of the season.
Michigan State cooled off Maryland with a late rally
Maryland had a great chance to extend its two-game winning streak into February as it refused to go away in East Lansing. Jahmir Young poured in 31 points and led the Terps on a second half run that allowed them to briefly take the lead, but the Spartans struck back and pulled away in the final seven minutes. Tyson Walker and Malik Hall each scored 19 points for Michigan State while A.J. Hoggard handed out eight assists. Julian Reese is usually a major factor on the inside for Maryland with his scoring and rebounding ability, but he was limited to two points in just 14 minutes due to foul trouble.
Losing a tough road game at Michigan State wouldn’t be a big deal for Maryland, but it followed that up with a home defeat to Rutgers on Tuesday that is more damaging to the Terps’ NCAA Tournament chances. Reese was terrific in this one with 19 points on 8-for-10 shooting with 12 rebounds, but Jahmir Young shot just 3-for-17 from the field and Maryland was 17-for-54 overall against the excellent Rutgers defense. The Scarlet Knights’ offense wasn’t anything special, but it was enough to get the job done, and it got a boost from Jeremiah Williams, a transfer from Temple who just played his first game for Rutgers on Saturday due to an Achilles injury. Williams scored 14 points at Maryland and 10 at Michigan.
Rutgers took a 52-43 lead with three minutes left on a clutch Derek Simpson jumper, but it almost let the game get away after Simpson was hit with a ridiculous technical foul for shushing the crowd. The Terps pulled to within a point and trailed by three in the final seconds, but Donta Scott’s equalizing attempts was off the mark and the Knights held on 56-53.
Wednesday night slate
Tonight in the Big Ten, Wisconsin tries to avoid slipping up in Ann Arbor and creating a losing streak while Nebraska continues the search for a road win in a huge bubble battle at Northwestern. I like Wisconsin -5.5 and Nebraska +5.5 for my picks.
It does not get any more exciting than this in the Big Ten! On Wednesday night and again on Thursday night, we watched epic overtime battles play out between teams at the top of the conference and teams that are battling to earn NCAA Tournament bids. On Wednesday, Purdue narrowly avoided being swept by Northwestern thanks to some overtime heroics by the unstoppable Zach Edey. On Thursday, Nebraska engineered a massive comeback to defeat Wisconsin in overtime for the second season in a row. Winning in Lincoln these days is a seemingly impossible task for road teams.
Let’s start with the game in West Lafayette, though. Boo Buie was on a massive heater and it did not look like he was going to let Northwestern leave Mackey Arena without a win. He went 7-for-11 from beyond the arc and is playing like one of the top guards in the country. Buie also handed out eight assists to go with his 25 points and five rebounds. However, Buie was not the only one scorching the nets, as Lance Jones went 5-for-7 from distance and was responsible for answering Buie’s bombs with three huge triples in the final seven minutes. As well as Buie played, he fell one shot short of winning the game for Northwestern, as his buzzer-beating runner fell short, resulting in overtime.
And overtime is where Edey took over. College basketball’s top player scored the first 10 Purdue points of the extra period with Matthew Nicholson and Luke Hunger having already fouled out for Northwestern. The seldomly used forward Blake Preston did not have much of a chance on defense. With 30 or more points in four of his last six games, Edey is overwhelming for most opponents. Between his post game, the pick-and-roll with Braden Smith, and his ridiculous offensive rebound ability, there is just too much of Edey to deal with.
Braden Smith is really good. Broke down the whole defense to set up wide open Loyer. 16 assists for Smith in this game. pic.twitter.com/SRYebTDugv
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) February 1, 2024
Speaking of Smith, he made a couple of huge plays down the stretch of overtime to keep the Wildcats at bay. First, Smith made a driving layup when Edey got tired of dominating. Then, with Purdue clinging to a three-point lead in the final minute, Smith drove under the basket and drew the entire Northwestern defense to him before kicking the ball out to Fletcher Loyer, who crushed a wide-open three and put the Boilers up 96-90. They hung on to win 105-96 and added to their number one overall resume. Northwestern is still looking like a solid bet for the NCAA Tournament, but a second victory over Purdue could have made the Wildcats close to a lock.
Nebraska is also in good shape for an NCAA Tournament bid, and it just improved its chances considerably by overcoming a 16-point halftime deficit to “upset” Wisconsin in overtime. That’s right, it was technically not an upset since the betting line closed at Nebraska minus half a point. Don’t let those pesky Associated Press rankings fool you, this game was a toss up from the tip-off! Of course, it felt more like an upset when the Huskers fell behind by 19 points in the first half with the Phenomenal AJ Storr scoring at will and Chucky Hepburn scoring on back-to-back breakaway layups. The vibes in Pinnacle Bank Arena didn’t take long to flip in the second half. C.J. Wilcher caught fire, the Badgers committed some uncharacteristic turnovers, and before you knew it, Wilcher was hitting a baseline jumper to tie the score at 52-52 with 8:44 still left on the clock.
Wisconsin wouldn’t wilt so easily, though. Max Klesmit has made a habit of coming up big in the biggest moments, and he came out of nowhere to hit two three-point shots in a row and score 11 points over the course of four minutes. That burst temporarily reestablished Badger supremacy with a seven-point advantage, but meanwhile Rienk Mast was getting going for Nebraska. The big man from Finland revisited the superstar form that he showed against Ohio State and knocked down a pair of clutch three-point shots to ensure that Wisconsin would not escape Lincoln with victory. The second clutch three was a step-back beauty to tie the score at 65-65 with one minute to play. After Storr missed a three-point shot, Brice Williams gave Nebraska the lead with two free throws following an offensive rebound, but Storr sent us to overtime with a driving layup over Mast.
AND-1 ‼️@takflight24 x @HuskerMBB pic.twitter.com/L50I1RxZlh
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) February 2, 2024
Mast continued to shine in overtime with a pair of hook shots and a slick backdoor pass to set up a three-point play by Juwan Gary, who had missed the last three games due to an injury suffered at Rutgers. Nebraska’s solid play in the extra period gave security plenty of time to prepare for the court storming. As a court-storming gatekeeper, I’m not happy about it happening with the Huskers favored to win, but I’ll allow it because of the big comeback and because it’s a huge victory for the team’s NCAA Tournament chances. Wisconsin has now blown huge leads in Lincoln for two years in a row. Last February, the Badgers lost at Nebraska in overtime despite leading by 17 early in the second half.
Penn State wins a road game
The Huskers may be feeling themselves right now, but here’s something they haven’t done: win a Big Ten game on the road. I can now say that Penn State has accomplished that with a 61-46 win over Rutgers. The game was incredibly ugly and a hilarious contrast to the barnburner between Northwestern and Purdue that was played right before. Ugly is in the eye of the beholder, though, and I say there is no such thing as an ugly road win in this conference! I don’t care if Rutgers turned the ball over 20 times and shot 1-for-17 from beyond the arc. Penn State tried to match the Scarlet Knights with 16 turnovers and 5-for-23 three-point shooting. In the end, Rutgers was just a little more feeble.
Before the game I said that Penn State didn’t need to force so many turnovers since Rutgers is so bad at shooting. As long as the Lions rebounded the ball, they would be okay. Well, they impressed me by forcing turnovers AND rebounding the ball. They held Clifford Omoruyi to eight points and one offensive rebound, and he’s someone I thought would kill us. Instead, the best players on the floor were Penn State’s guard duo of Ace Baldwin Jr. and D’Marco Dunn. Baldwin did his usual thing with 15 points, seven assists, and five steals, while Dunn did a great job filling in for the injured Kanye Clary with 14 points on 6-for-10 shooting with seven rebounds. Also, shout out to Qudus Wahab who grinded away for nine points and 11 rebounds to best Omoruyi in both categories. Penn State Basketball is not pretty, but the team showed a lot of grit in defeating a team that is usually the most gritty one on the floor.
Chalk wins in trio of Tuesday games
I thought I was asking for trouble when I bet all three favorites to cover on Tuesday’s Big Ten slate. It turned out I was just asking for money since Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan State all took care of business. Sometimes chalk is the answer. Let’s start with Indiana’s big win over Iowa that it needed to stay alive in the bubble chase. The Hoosiers overcame an early injury to Mailk Reneau and took a 17-point lead in the first half, only to see it evaporate by the time we were midway through the second half. Payton Sandfort had been slumping in January, but he turned in his second straight 26-point outing while going 5-for-12 from beyond the arc to fuel Iowa’s comeback. Tony Perkins also helped a ton with his fourth straight 20-point game. He scored 22 on 9-for-18 shooting and has been Iowa’s MVP as of late.
With Reneau out, Indiana needed Kel’el Ware to have a big game to hang on, and he was enormous both literally and figuratively. Ware had missed the last two games due to injury, and he was limping around in this one, but he still scored 23 points with 10 rebounds and three blocks while shooting 8-for-10 from the field. Ware doesn’t get the attention of Edey since Edey is on a better team in the same state, but Ware has a chance to make a massive impact on the Hoosiers and their NCAA Tournament hopes. He’s a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball, as Iowa big men Owen Freeman and Ben Krikke combined for just six points.
Even with Ware’s dominant play, Indiana might not pull out the win if not for benchwarmer and townie Anthony Leal coming off the pine and knocking down three shots from beyond the arc. Leal is a Bloomington native and former Mr. Indiana Basketball, so this was a storybook performance from him. Before this 13-point outburst, Leal played very sparingly and had a career high of nine points that he set as a freshman. In addition to the Reneau injury, Xavier Johnson hurt himself attempting a dunk in the final minutes, so there should be more minutes for Leal in the near future.
In the other two Tuesday games, Illinois won comfortably in Columbus and Michigan State used a strong second half to blow out Michigan in East Lansing. There is no such thing as an easy road win in the Big Ten, but Ohio State stinks right now, so taking the Illini and laying just two and a half was an easy decision. Brad Underwood’s team made it pay off by holding onto a multiple-possession lead for the entire second half. Terrence Shannon Jr. looks like he is rounding into form with 23 points and 3-for-7 three-point shooting. Roddy Gayle Jr. and Jamison Battle shot the ball well enough to keep Illinois from pulling away, but the Illini held Bruce Thornton to just seven points on 3-for-11 shooting.
Terrence Shannon Jr. leads Illinois to an 87-75 over Ohio State. 💪 pic.twitter.com/4xmGUSv2uL
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) January 31, 2024
During this stretch where the Buckeyes have lost seven of eight games, their biggest weaknesses have been defending the three-point line and forcing turnovers. In almost every game they are allowing opponents to shoot 40 percent or more from beyond the arc while getting fewer than 10 takeaways. That puts a lot of pressure on the offense, and it hasn’t been good enough to keep pace. Sure enough, Illinois shot 41 percent from three-point range and only turned the ball over six times in the win over Ohio State.
I’ll give the Buckeyes a little credit. On Friday night against Iowa, I bet against them again and they held the Hawkeyes to 3-for-10 shooting from distance and forced nine turnovers. That was good enough for Ohio State to cover the 5.5-point spread, but it still allowed Iowa to shoot 55-percent from the field, and the result was a 79-77 Iowa win. The end of this game was painful to watch with Fran McCaffery taking fouling up three to the extreme by doing so starting with 13 seconds left and executing the strategy three times in a row. I can’t blame McCaffery too much since the plan worked out, but that game was one of the biggest advocates for the Elam Ending I’ve ever seen.
Weekend hoops
None of the big ranked vs. ranked games on Saturday are between Big Ten teams, but Maryland vs. Michigan State should be interesting. The Terps have improved, but they don’t have an NCAA Tournament resume yet. A win in East Lansing would go a long way towards getting into the field. The Spartans have been dominant at home in the new year and they just beat Maryland on the road two weeks ago. I like Michigan State minus the six and a half.
There is no line for Purdue vs. Wisconsin yet, but the Sunday clash of Big Ten titans will be must-see television. Zach Edey has looked unstoppable lately, but Purdue has been vulnerable on the road. Wisconsin has shown that with AJ Storr and Max Klesmit in the backcourt, it doesn’t need to rely on its big men for scoring. That’s important when going up against Edey. I’m leaning Wisconsin, especially if I don’t have to lay a point.
On the weekend before we see a repeat of Super Sunday 2020, ChabDog sees fit to focus more on College Basketball and maybe even the all-star skills competitions (nah!), and less on who’s going to be loaded with lipstick in Clark’s billion-dollar box, in CDST’s “Time for giving short thrift to one Taylor Swift” show. But not to worry, there will still be plenty of Super Bowl hype to go aground.
Congrats, Indiana! You finally did it. The Hoosiers finally won a home game that they were favored in after dropping their last three Assembly Hall games to Penn State, Northwestern, and Nebraska. If Indiana had just taken care of business, we’d be talking about its status on the NCAA Tournament bubble right now, but instead all we can say is that the 74-70 win over Wisconsin is too little and too late for Mike Woodson’s team. After the Hoosiers led for almost 30 minutes, it looked like they were going to blow the game when John Blackwell hit a driving layup for Wisconsin to tie the score at 54-54 midway through the second half, but someone or something (or perhaps divine intervention) pull a fire alarm at Assembly Hall, causing the action to halt for 25 minutes.
When play finally resumed, Tyler Wahl posted up and scored on a reverse layup to give Wisconsin its first lead, but Indiana punched back with Malik Reneau hitting a putback layup. The two red teams battled back and forth with neither leading for more than three points until the Hoosiers finally took control in the final minute. Reneau powered through Wahl for a layup and made the score 72-70 Indiana with 55 seconds left, and then the Hoosiers got a key stop when AJ Storr missed a three-point shot. Mackenzie Mgbako drew a foul and knocked down both free throws to finally put the home squad ahead by two possessions and end a four-game losing streak.
Kel'el Ware is on fire. 🔥@KelelWare x @IndianaMBB
💻: Peacock pic.twitter.com/zC8c7Jsc5h
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 28, 2024
As usual, Indiana didn’t get much scoring from its backcourt, but Trey Galloway handed out 12 assists to help feed Kel’el Ware, who is turning into the Hoosiers’ own version of Zach Edey. Ware scored 27 points and went 11-for-12 from the field with 11 rebounds, five blocks, and just one turnover. That is unstoppable as it gets against a Wisconsin team that has plenty of big men to throw his way on defense. We’ve talked plenty about how disappointing this season has been for Indiana, but there is major bounce-back potential this fall if Ware decides to stick around alongside Reneau and the quickly improving Mgbako.
That brings our attention to the Badgers, who have lost six of eight since completing a sweep of Michigan State on January 26. Five of those six losses have come on the road, but at Rutgers and at Michigan are games that we expect good basketball teams to take care of. Wisconsin hasn’t shot the three or defended as well as we got used to seeing them do under Greg Gard. Three-point defense has been a big problem, and it’s a bad sign when brick-laying teams like Indiana and Rutgers are finding the range against Wisconsin. We’ll see if the Badgers can get right when they return to the Kohl Center for two games against Illinois and Rutgers coming up, but the Illini have proven to be tough to beat no matter where they play.
Illinois has been almost impossible to slow down lately with at least 85 points scored in its last five games. And it would have swept all five if not for an embarrassing collapse in State College. The Illini posted their best offensive performance of the season in their last game against Minnesota. They won 105-97 in an NBA-style game that was hotly contested until Minnesota faded in the last few minutes. Both teams scorched the nets with Minnesota shooting 60 percent and Illinois shooting 61 percent while the Illini went over the century mark in regulation time for the first time in a Big Ten game since 1994. The Gophers were en fuego from three-point range with Cam Christie and Mike Mitchell leading them on a 14-for-20 performance that would have been enough to beat nearly any other opponent.
IT'S DAINJA TIME ‼️ @IlliniMBB pic.twitter.com/GWbt5p8KS5
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) February 29, 2024
Illinois is so balanced and deep, though, and it can beat you in many different ways. Terrence Shannon Jr. (29 points) got hot from beyond the arc while Marcus Domask (22 points) got work done in the paint. With Minnesota trying to hang in there, Domask powered through contact and scored while being fouled to put Illinois ahead 90-79 with five and a half minutes left. That ensured that the Illini would not have to sweat down the stretch. Illinois also got key bench buckets from Dain Dainja and Justin Harmon. They combined for 17 points while Minnesota got just three from its own bench. We saw Brad Underwood flex his team’s bench depth last Saturday against Iowa, and that depth will make Illinois tough to outlast in the Big Ten Tournament when everyone is playing for multiple days in a row.
Back-to-back road losses to Nebraska and Illinois probably means that Minnesota will have to win that Big Ten Tournament to earn a bid to the NCAA Tournament. Ben Johnson’s team must win the rest of its regular season games against Penn State (home), Indiana (home), and Northwestern (away) just to give itself a chance at an at-large invitation.
Ohio State is another team that has made a lot of noise lately but probably won’t reach the big dance. On Thursday, the Buckeyes defeated Nebraska 78-69 in Columbus to win their third game in four tries with interim head coach Jake Diebler at the helm. This one was particularly impressive because team MVP Bruce Thornton sat out due to a migraine headache. With Thornton out, Jamison Battle, who missed the win at Michigan State due to injury, stepped up and scored 32 points on 9-for-18 field goals and 10-for-10 free throws. The charity stripe was key for the Buckeyes, as they went 24-for-28 from there compared to just 7-for-8 for Nebraska.
While Battle is a fifth-year senior, we know this Ohio State team is a young group, and it got big contributions from freshmen Devin Royal and Scotty Middleton. Royal was someone who emerged in the Michigan State game, and he followed up that 14-point performance with 13 points and five rebounds against Nebraska in 21 minutes. Middleton has come along more slowly that Buckeye fans would have liked, but he helped fill in for Thornton nicely with nine points on 3-for-5 three-point shooting.
Nebraska also got some nice bench contributions with Jamarques Lawrence scoring 14 points with five assists and C.J. Wilcher pitching in with eight points, but the starters left a lot to be desired. Juwan Gary and Keisei Tominaga were smothered by Ohio State’s defense and combined to shoot 6-for-24 with 17 points. Rienk Mast was the only Husker starter in double figures with 14 points to go with 12 rebounds.
Jamison Battle is unstoppable. 😱@battletime510 x @OhioStateHoops
📺: FS1/@CBBonFOX pic.twitter.com/hSm3Aob9sf
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) March 1, 2024
I am a Chris Holtmann guy, so I can going to say that this recent surge by Ohio State is proof that he had the young team headed in the right direction, but I can’t say for certain that the Buckeyes win three of four if he is still the head coach. That’s why we need a time machine to explore every timeline and settle all the hypothetical arguments. Without one, we’re left to say that this Ohio State team has a bright future if the key sophomores and freshmen stay with the new regime.
The Buckeyes have a great chance to end the regular season on a four-game winning streak since their next two are vs. Michigan and at Rutgers, but Iowa remains the Big Ten team that is mostly likely to be the conference’s seventh entry in the NCAA Tournament. The Hawkeyes dropped a big game at Illinois last weekend, but bounced back nicely with a 90-81 win over my Nittany Lions. Plus, Iowa still has a game at Northwestern and a rematch at home with Illinois on the schedule and those are both Quad 1 opportunities. If Iowa wins one or both, it could get on the good side of the bubble before Championship Week begins.
If Iowa makes a run in March, it will probably be because of Payton Sandfort and Josh Dix. While Sandfort has been Iowa’s top player all season, Dix has emerged as a lethal mid-range shooter lately, and that continued against Penn State. Dix scored 20 points on 8-for-10 shooting with much of that coming in the first half. Those Dix buckets were how Payton Sandfort racked up a lot of his assists en route to the first triple-double in Iowa Men’s Basketball history. And make sure you say “Men’s Basketball” or else endure the wrath of Caitlin Clark fans, also known as the Swifties of college hoops. Yes, Clark is amazing. Yes, she is one of the best women to ever play. No, we don’t need a picture-in-picture stalking her every move on the court. I don’t know if I should route against her in the NCAA Tournament or root for her to turn heel. Maybe both.
Anyway, Sandfort got his triple-double with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. He didn’t get the final rebound until Ace Baldwin Jr. missed a free throw in garbage time even though Baldwin is a great free throw shooter. Sandfort shot just 3-for-11 from the field, but he was also 18-for-19 from the free throw line, but I’ll have you know that six of those free throws came in the game’s final minute and three more came on a dumb foul by Penn State when Sandfort was shooting from beyond the arc. So only about half the free throws were earned.
He knew he needed one more rebound.
He got it. He celebrated. And he talked about it.
Relive Payton Sandfort's historic triple-double. ⤵️@payton_20_ x @IowaHoops pic.twitter.com/0q3zooRCUs
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) February 28, 2024
Penn State fell behind early in this one despite a great first half by Qudus Wahab in which he scored 12 of his 18 points. Almost everyone else on Penn State underperformed on offense, with Baldwin shooting 5-for-15 despite a burst at the beginning of the second half that saw him score eight points in three minutes and bring Penn State within two points at 51-49. The Lions would get no closer, though, since Baldwin was hit with a technical foul for chirping at the referee. Sandfort hit the two penalty free throws (unearned again!) before Tony Perkins hit a runner in the paint to put Iowa back up by six. A Leo O’Boyle appearance led to the redhead hitting two threes and letting Penn State hang around, but Iowa had too much firepower for the Lions to withstand. Rayquawndis Mitchell randomly got going for 16 points, but Zach Hicks and Jameel Brown showed how inconsistent they are and combined to shoot 0-for-9 from deep.
Iowa’s win over Penn State sets up a showdown at Northwestern on Saturday that is a chance for the Hawkeyes to boost their resume. The Wildcats have won three in a row and five of six, but the schedule has been light and the team is banged up with Ty Berry out for the rest of the season. Plus, Ryan Langborg just sat out Northwestern’s last game against Maryland due to an ankle injury. You probably thought that the Cats needed a superhuman effort from Boo Buie in order to beat the Terps on the road with Langborg out, but nope! It was sophomore small forward Nick Martinelli who stepped up with a career-high 27 points with seven rebounds.
You have to hand it to Chris Collins. His Northwestern team is showing a lot of resiliency. It lost Berry and Langborg became a 20-point scorer. Then it lost Langborg and Martinelli has the best game of his career. Not only that, but he went 9-for-14 from the field, including two key buckets that held off Maryland when it drew within one possession in the second half. We don’t know yet if Langborg will play on Saturday, but either way, the Hawkeyes have a tough task in front of them.
The only other game that happened during the week was Rutgers shellacking Michigan 82-52. The good news for Michigan was that Dug McDaniel finally played in a road game for the first time in 2024 thanks to his academic suspension being lifted. He led the Wolverines with 13 points and four assists while shooting 5-for-9, but Michigan was crushed by a surprisingly efficient offensive performance by Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights shot 52 percent from the field while Clifford Omoruyi and Jeremiah Williams scored 19 points each. Rutgers didn’t score for the final five minutes of the first half, but Michigan still didn’t make it a close game. Michigan just looks like a doormat with Olivier Nkamhoua out of the lineup for the rest of the season.
Purdue vs. Rutgers was a great game to put on television before the football on Sunday. I figured it would be physical, intense, and have a final score that reminded me of a football score. That is just how Rutgers games at the arena formerly known as the RAC have been this season. The Scarlet Knights have one of the worst offenses and best defenses in Division I, and when they play at home, they tend to drag opponents down to their level. I knew that Rutgers +10.5 was a lock, but I couldn’t make money off of it because New Jersey is a fascist state that doesn’t allow citizens to bet on colleges within the state.
This law needs to be changed immediately @NJGov https://t.co/Zvu60AguhD
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 28, 2024
It also didn’t hurt that Purdue had lost three in a row at Rutgers and that Jersey Mike’s Arena was the only Big Ten venue in which Zach Edey had never won a game. Sure enough, even though Rutgers fell behind by 13 points at halftime, it clawed back to within two points thanks to some key buckets by freshmen Gavin Griffiths and Jamichael Davis. The Boilers had the answer each time and never surrendered the lead with Braden Smith scoring 19 points on 7-for-10 shooting to support Zach Edey’s 26 points and 12 rebounds. The Knights as usual did not shoot the ball very well, but they grabbed 15 offensive rebounds (Purdue only had six even though Edey had five himself) and might have pulled off the upset if not for a terrific defensive effort from Lance Jones. He only scored four points on 1-for-10 shooting, but he gave Rutgers’ guards fits and his five steals accounted for half of Rutgers’ 10 turnovers.
Purdue held on to win 68-60 with Rutgers covering the spread just like I foresaw. Please change the law, New Jersey.
Michigan keeps sinking
Now let’s talk about all the things I was wrong about this weekend. I really thought the Wolverines would get a home win over Iowa since they already won in Iowa City this season. Well, the game was close throughout, but Payton Sandfort picked a great time to pull out of his scoring slump and he helped the Hawkeyes pull away in the final 10 minutes. Sandfort was red hot from beyond the arc, and he finished with 26 points on 10-for-14 shooting. Iowa needs more games like that from him if it is going to make an NCAA Tournament push. Tony Perkins is upholding his end of the bargain with a third straight 20-point game. Michigan got balanced scoring with four starters in double figures, but its suspect defense let it down again. This is a nightmare season for Michigan and the schedule is not getting any easier up ahead.
Iowa, on the other hand, has a great chance to make a run with its next four games against Indiana, Ohio State, Penn State, and Minnesota. Those might be the four worst teams in the league besides Michigan right now. If Iowa can get Sandfort and Ben Krikke going on offense alongside Perkins, Fran McCaffery’s team has a big chance to rack up some dubs.
Penn State and Ohio State are also trash
I was perplexed at the line of the Ohio State vs. Northwestern game with the Wildcats only being favored by three and a half. Northwestern was playing good ball, particularly at home, while Ohio State’s only wins this month were against Penn State and Rutgers in Columbus. The Buckeyes hadn’t won a road game all season and they still haven’t won a road game all season since Northwestern boat-raced them and cashed the easiest bet of the year. The game was never in question as the Wildcats clicked on offense with Boo Buie going for his typical 19 points, five rebounds, and five assists while Nick Martinelli and Luke Hunger combined for 23 points off the bench. Marcus Thornton and Roddy Gayle Jr. were fine for Ohio State, but this team is not very scary when Jamison Battle isn’t knocking down triples, and he has hit a dry spell recently. Battle has fewer than two three-point shots made in three of his last four games after hitting at least four of them in five straight games. I don’t think Ohio State is as hopeless as Michigan, but the Buckeyes obviously have to start winning game soon to get in the bubble conversation. Tonight against Illinois would be a great start.
Speaking of hopeless, Penn State lost to Minnesota in State College after leading by 14 at halftime. It did not even take the Gophers long to get back into the game, as they opened the second half on a 25-7 run that lasted seven minutes. Penn State’s defense has been horrible all season long, and it is very hard for this team to get stops when the opponent takes care of the ball. Minnesota had lost four straight coming in, but Dawson Garcia decided it was time for the steak to end and Penn State could do anything about it. Garcia had one of his best shooting nights of the season and scored 22 points in the 83-74 Minnesota win. A great first half should have been the start of a fun evening, but Penn State came out flat after the break and I am left wondering how many wins are left on the schedule.
Maryland finally gets some bench scoring
All season we’ve talked about how Maryland stinks because it has no shooting and no depth. Against Nebraska on Saturday, the Terps got both of those things and came away with a big blowout win. Jamie Kaiser Jr. and Jahari Long combined for 25 points and 7-for-9 shooting from beyond the arc with most of it coming in Maryland’s explosive 44-point first half. The Terps led by 17 points at the break despite falling behind 12-2 in the first four minutes. Yeah, my Nebraska +5.5 pick was looking pretty good until Maryland completely ran away with the game with a 16-2 run in the last seven minutes of the first half. The Cornhuskers still haven’t won a Big Ten road game and they aren’t going to get one if their entire starting lineup is held under 10 points like it was in College Park.
Indiana falls short of a major upset
You have to hand it to Indiana. It looked like Illinois was going to pull away when it rallied to take an eight-point lead on Coleman Hawkins’ layup in the final minute of the first half. Even without Kel’el Ware, who was out with an ankle injury, the Hoosiers battled the heavily favored Illini all the way through. It looked like Indiana might get out of Champaign with a win when Mackenzie Mgbako knocked down a 17-foot jumper to tie the score at 62-62 with 1:29 to play, but Illinois closed out the game with six Terrence Shannon Jr. free throws and a clutch runner by Justin Harmon to win 70-62.
Indiana got a nice 14-point performance from the inconsistent Xavier Johnson and Malik Reneau was nearly unstoppable in the post with 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting. The Hoosiers probably would have won this game if not for their 0-for-9 three-point shooting and dreadful 12-for-22 free throw showing. If this season wasn’t already frustrating enough for Indiana fans, this game probably sent them over the edge. Indiana isn’t the worst team in the Big Ten, but it is for sure the most disappointing. Maybe if Ware gets healthy, Mike Woodson’s team can turn the season around, but it has got to start with a win over Iowa at home.
Roll into Conf. Championship Sunday with the “Will the road dogs really roll over” CDST NFL Preview Show…
If you’re wondering whether the No. 1 seed Niners and Ravens will just waltz into the upcoming Super Bowl, tune in to our big shooooow tomorrow as we try to eliminate any lingering uncertainties. We welcome Lion lover Ian to the Hermosa Beach studios, and he’ll no doubt make lay out the case for a silver and blue, not gold, rush to glory. And on a mid-afternoon that could be dreary, with the visiting Chiefs come rapping on the M&T with another Mahoming-pigeon toed nightmare… as we know Lamar is just well not real enthused about this quite concerning confrontation.
Plus, ChabDog will break down the action in this year’s first major tennis of the year, between one helluva Sinner and Russia’s sinewy spider, the czar of court coverage, Medvedev. And of course, clips galore and much more.
Purdue, Michigan State, and now Illinois have all lost to Northwestern inside of Welsh-Ryan Arena. The home of the Wildcats is looking like the top home court advantage in the Big Ten. It might even be considered among the best in the country if not for Northwestern’s loss to Chicago State in December. That inexplicable defeat is a serious stain on Northwestern’s NCAA Tournament resume, but the good news is that the Wildcats are safely in the field thanks to their most recent triumph over the rival Illini.
A week ago, Northwestern failed to secure a road win at Nebraska because Boo Buie turned into Mr. Clank, but that wasn’t an issue at home against Illinois. The superstar point guard was in his bag as the kids say. He led everyone with 29 points and seven assists while leading Northwestern to the 96-91 overtime victory. The game might not have made it to overtime, but Buie answered Justin Harmon’s go-ahead runner with a drive past Terrence Shannon Jr. and a layup off a shot fake to tie the score at 76-76.
Who else but Boo Buie to tie it up. 👀 @NUMensBball pic.twitter.com/PDvBlLy5pB
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 25, 2024
Illinois had a chance to win in regulation, and Marcus Domask had a good look at being the hero, but his 15-foot jumper banged off the back of the rim. That turned out to be the Illini’s best shot at victory because Northwestern scored the first nine points of overtime thanks to a three by Buie and another one by Brooks Barnhizer that turned into a four-point play with Quincy Guerrier fouling on the shot.
Before taking that big lead in overtime, Northwestern’s largest lead in the entire game was just four points. Even though the Cats shot 55 percent from the field and 11-for-18 from beyond the arc, Illinois kept pace with 21 offensive rebounds on 45 missed shots. The biggest second chance provider was Coleman Hawkins, who continued his streak of great play with 22 points and 13 rebounds with seven coming on offense. The effort by Illinois will be enough to win most games, and the team can be even better once Shannon Jr. rounds into form. Northwestern’s hot shooting was just too much to overcome on Wednesday night.
The Illinois vs. Northwestern game was quite riveting, but we had already been warmed up by an exciting game in Iowa. Maryland picked up a key road win in its quest to build an NCAA Tournament resume around its upset victory at Illinois 10 days ago. Iowa appeared to be in control of the game when Tony Perkins hit a pair of free throws to put his team ahead 63-57 with just under five minutes to play. From that point, the Terps would close the game on a 12-4 run that included three monster buckets by Jahmir Young. Maryland’s most valuable player (by far) knocked down a step-back three with 1:24 on the clock to go ahead 64-63. After Iowa regained the lead, Young hit another triple, this one set up by a Julian Reese screen, to take the lead 67-65. Perkins responded with two free throws to tie the game, but with 28 seconds left Young just dribbled down the clock and blew past the Iowa defense to seal the game with a left-handed layup.
Jahmir Young FOR THE WIN pic.twitter.com/5asJokH8FA
— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) January 25, 2024
The man could not be stopped with the game on the line, and that’s why Maryland still has a great chance to make the NCAA Tournament. The Terps have a formula. Just play great defense and let Young cook. It also helped that Maryland made almost half its three-point shots in this one while Reese did the dirty work and picked up five offensive rebounds, blocked five shots, and also scored 17 points. That kind of effort from Reese is just what Maryland needs to give it a paint presence and support Young’s scoring.
This game was right there for Iowa to finish off, but getting only nine points from Ben Krikke is not going to cut it, even with Perkins (20 points) and Owen Freeman (14 points, nine rebounds) playing as well as they are. It also doesn’t help that Payton Sandfort is slumping with fewer than 10 points in two of Iowa’s last three games, including his 0-for-4 night from beyond the arc against Maryland.
Wisconsin continues to dominate the Big Ten
The Badgers have now won three in a row since my Nittany Lions handed them their only loss of conference play. On Fright night, Greg Gard’s team finished off a sweep of Michigan State with a convincing 81-66 victory in Madison. Earlier this week on the B1G Spotlight podcast, I spoke about how the game between Michigan State and Wisconsin would be a battle between Sparty’s ability to force turnovers and score in transition and the Badgers’ low-tempo and low-turnover style. Michigan State needed to force Wisconsin into some uncharacteristic mistakes to win this one, and that did not happen. Wisconsin only turned it over six times while shooting 51 percent from the field and grabbing 12 offensive rebounds. The outcome is not very surprising given those numbers.
Wisconsin guard AJ Storr dropped 28 in a win over Michigan State tonight.
Storr is averaging 20 ppg over the last four games and Wisconsin sits atop the Big 10 👀 pic.twitter.com/EcODcGhI5v
— B/R Hoops (@brhoops) January 27, 2024
What is a little surprising is how the Phenomenal AJ Storr has developed from a complimentary scorer into the main attraction of the Wisconsin offense. He scored 28 points in this one, and he’s just as comfortable shooting the three as driving to the basket. It’s not good for the rest of the Big Ten that Wisconsin can win so comfortably while Max Klesmit, Chucky Hepburn, and Tyler Wahl combine for just 16 points. In addition, to Storr, the Badgers’ bench with Connor Essegian and Nolan Winter each knocking down a pair of three-point shots. Illinois looks like the deepest team in the conference with Shannon Jr. back in the lineup, but Wisconsin isn’t far behind with the young talent it has in reserve.
Michigan State could have used some support from its own bench, but Tre Holloman, who has played so well lately, scored zero points in 17 minutes. Among the starters, A.J. Hoggard played one of his best games of the season with 19 points and four assists, but that was balanced out by Tyson Walker being limited to 11 points on 4-for-14 shooting with five assists. That can happen when he’s forced to operate in crowded halfcourt sets like he was in Madison.
Busy Big Ten Saturday
I love Northwestern today at home vs. Ohio State.
Sure, it's a letdown spot, but the Buckeyes stink and they have dropped all four of their away games this season, including at Penn State, at Indiana, and at Michigan. pic.twitter.com/xlx9Ii5AFP
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 27, 2024
Wow! There are five games on today and they are all staggered nicely so that you can watch them if you don’t have a three-year-old’s birthday party in the middle of the day like I do.
No more Novak. Sinner took care of that task, keeping him from a record 25th Men’s Grand Salami.
The Italian ran through the Serb like a knife through butter in Sets 1 and 2…
let Novak back in with a disappoingting tie breack ito close the 3rd, but slammed the door shut with a money 4th.
Never saw Novak look so disinterested…. and at times, disoriented. Somewhat disturbing, but utlmately beautiful.
Could be a harbinger of things to come this Sunday in terms of the real underdog prevailing.
Illinois fans got surprisingly good news last week when Terrence Shannon Jr. had his suspension overturned by U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Lawless. It turns out that Illinois suspending Shannon Jr. based on the rape and sexual battery charges against him violates his civil rights.
“Plaintiff’s participation in sports is vital to the development of his career as well as his current and future economic opportunities considering plaintiff’s intention to declare for the 2024 NBA Draft,” Lawless wrote in the order issued Friday. “Prior to his suspension, plaintiff was projected to be a lottery pick in the NBA. His participation in future games impact his prospects in the draft and his earning potential.”
Usually “innocent until proven guilty” only applies to the justice system and not to sports leagues (or in this case, schools) who suspend players in order to protect their precious family-friendly images. It was a pleasant surprise to see Shannon Jr. reinstated when we don’t know if he’s guilty of anything. The accusations against him are bad and disturbing, but there’s also very little evidence. I’m glad he gets to continue his final season of college basketball with the hope of impressing NBA scouts.
Terrence Shannon Jr. gets the steal and the big jam.@Sn1per_T x @IlliniMBB
📺: @BigTenNetwork pic.twitter.com/vNTUjvl2sL
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) January 21, 2024
Illinois probably didn’t need Shannon Jr. to defeat Rutgers on Sunday, but he still scored 16 points with four assists in 28 minutes off the bench in his first game back. Rutgers got a great effort from Cliff Omoruyi, and he helped the Scarlet Knights claw to within four points at 55-51 with 10 minutes left, but the Illini pulled away and won 86-63. Guys like Marcus Domask and Quincy Guerrier were able to spread their wings a little with Shannon Jr. out of action, so you can make the argument that Illinois is better off now than they were before the suspension. Many people won’t be happy that a player allegedly sexually assaulting a woman resulted in increased team chemistry, but it is going to be tough to pick against Illinois going forward.
Another team with high preseason expectations that is round into form is Michigan State. The Spartans are on a three-game winning streak with the most recent victory coming on Sunday at Maryland. The Terps erased a 12-point halftime deficit with a 21-6 run that led to them taking a 53-50 lead on Jahmir Young’s three-point shot with 13 minutes to play. However, Sparty bounced back and escaped with the 61-59 win thanks to three big field goals by A.J. Hoggard in the final eight minutes as well as a clutch step-back three from Tyson Walker to put Michigan State up 61-57 in the final minute. Young appeared to answer with a step-back three of his own seconds later, but his foot was on the line. Maryland got one more chance to tie or win following a defensive stop, but Tre Holloman stripped Young of the ball to keep the Spartans in the win column.
Michigan State has found a formula for success lately: forcing turnovers and scoring in transition. In its last two wins, the Spartans won the turnover battle 19-5 vs. Minnesota and 18-8 at Maryland. When you combine that with Walker’s ability to navigate the open floor and get to the bucket or find his teammates, Michigan State gets a nice boost on offense. It also helps when Malik Hall is stepping up and scoring in the post. He has scored in double digits during his last four games since he laid a goose egg in a loss at Northwestern. Plus, Tre Holloman has provided some offense off the bench with 29 points in his last three games.
Northwestern and Nebraska battle on the bubble
The two “NU” schools are the two in the most precarious stop in the NCAA Tournament projections. According to ESPN, Northwestern is a 10 seed right now and Nebraska is a nine seed. Those could be reversed if Northwestern had found a way to win in Lincoln on Saturday, but the Cornhuskers stayed undefeated in home conference games thanks to a big three-point shot by Keisei Tominaga that extended Nebraska’s lead to two possession with 25 seconds left.
Northwestern overcame an 11-point deficit and tied the score at 65-65 with four minutes to play, but could not finish the job. Nebraska gave the Wildcats many chances to win with 18 turnovers, but Northwestern is not going to win many games when Boo Buie and Ty Berry combine to shoot 4-for-25 from the field. Nebraska followed up the 75-69 win over Northwestern with a 83-69 shellacking of the slumping Buckeyes on Tuesday night. Rienk Mast went nuclear with an incredible 34 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists on 13-for-17 shooting, including 6-for-8 from beyond the arc. Mast has been a nice pickup for Nebraska in the transfer portal this season, but this kind of output was not foreseen by anyone. On the season, Mast is a 35-percent three-point shooter with a little more than one make per game. If this shooting performance wasn’t a total fluke, the Cornhuskers will be even more difficult to guard.
It was Rienk Mast's night. 🤩
The Dutchman scored a career-high 34 points., and grabbed 10 rebounds, in @HuskerMBB's win over Ohio State.
Watch the scoring barrage. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/My9fiMa2Bl
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) January 24, 2024
Meanwhile, Ohio State has lost four of five, with the one win coming on Saturday at home against my Nittany Lions. Penn State did not look ready to play coming out of the gate, as it fell behind 16-0 in the first seven minutes. That was not what I was hoping for following Penn State’s big win over Wisconsin. I knew that winning on the road in the Big Ten is a different story than winning at home, but there is no excuse for the pathetic offensive performance to start that game in Columbus. I would say that the Lions were reading their press clippings, but there have not been press clippings about Penn State Basketball in a long time. Maybe from the student newspaper, but that’s it.
Anyway, Penn State played Ohio State pretty even the rest of the way and shot 46 percent from three-point range to avoid being completely humiliated, but the game was never very close. Ohio State won 79-67.
Purdue is still a juggernaut and Indiana is a tire fire
Not much to report on the Purdue front. It snapped Iowa’s three-game winning streak on Saturday with a decisive 84-70 win at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Zach Edey furthered his Player of the Year case with 30 points, 18 rebounds, and four blocks. It was part of a Purdue performance that saw the Boilermakers grab 19 offensive rebounds on 37 missed field goals. It is nearly impossible to lose when you shoot 45 percent from the field and still pick up 19 offensive boards. On Tuesday, the Boilers returned home and smashed Michigan 99-67. This time, Edey only scored 16 points with 10 rebounds, as Purdue buried the Wolverines with 14-for-21 shooting from beyond the arc. Lance Jones went 5-for-9 from deep with 24 points to lead the way. Michigan was overwhelmed from the jump and none of the Purdue starters had to play 30 minutes.
That brings us to Indiana. After the Hoosiers were blown out by Purdue a week ago, they traveled to Madison and lost their 20th straight game in the Kohl Center. With Kel’el Ware out due to injury, Indiana had to throw multiple guys at Wisconsin center Steven Crowl. That opened up other opportunities for the Badgers, and Crowl finished with 12 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists while Max Klesmit continued his hot streak and scored 26 points on just 11 field goal attempts. Malik Reneau carried Indiana on offense with 28 points and eight rebounds, but the Hoosiers could not keep pace with Wisconsin’s hot shooting. Midway through the second half, CJ Gunn was ejected for elbowing Klesmit in the face. It marked the third flagrant foul and second ejection for the Hoosiers in their last four games. You have to wonder if Mike Woodson has lost control of the locker room, as this is turning into a nightmare season for Indiana. It doesn’t get easier with a trip to Champaign looming on Saturday.
Wisconsin has bounced back nicely from its shocking defeat in State College last week. Not only did it crush Indiana, but it won a tough game in Minneapolis on Tuesday even though the Gophers played tough defense and overcame a Badger lead that peaked at 15 points in the first half. Minnesota took the lead late thanks to a pair of clutch buckets by Dawson Garcia. The Gophers had a two-point lead and the ball with two minutes left, but a huge steal by Klesmit and subsequent fast break dunk by A.J. Storr flipped the game in Wisconsin’s favor. Mike Mitchell Jr. had one last chance to send the game to overtime when he perfectly missed a free throw and grabbed his own rebound, but the put-back fell out, allowing Wisconsin to hold on with a 61-59 road win.
Amazing play by Mitchell Jr. Look at him run right to where the rebound is going. Just missed the easy part. pic.twitter.com/3YR274RBlZ
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 24, 2024
Wednesday is another big night in the Big Ten with Maryland and Iowa battling to stay relevant in the NCAA Tournament conversation when they play each other in Iowa City. After that, Northwestern looks to solidify its Tournament resume with an upset win at home over rival Illinois.
And on Expectant Eight Sunday:
–Nothing that special or unusual here, just more magic from Mahomes and a classic flub by Buffalo… 30 plus later, it’s still a wild, but apparently uncorrectible, wide right.
–Goff makes the recalitrant Buccs walk the plank, and Baker’s late game interception send Tampa into the bay… or should we say into the Detroit River. Kudos to the visitors for making it a pretty good game, but the homies just had too much talent, and the very serious faith of deterimned Dan.
— We all can unforutnately remember when we were as frustrated as Josh Allen.
Sunday Morning at 9 is high time for our “Tampa Bay of pigs, for the Lions?” CDST Show. Could it be, that Dorothy D’s Champions of the North, will have their energy Sapped by Baker Baker touchdown maker and the fabulous Bolwes-legged blitzers. Does Goff have a plan — other than that deer in the headlights look — when the pressure comes at him quick and frenzied, and the run option has been sufficiently snuffed out. And all that before we look at the rematch that has seemed way longer than 2 years in the making. It’s now or never for Josh Allen, and a classic opportunity for Mahomes to cement his legacy. Plus, maybe some tennis, a little basketball and god knows what else, including my ChabDog cousin, clumsy Clem.
I try to stay a little optimistic about this Penn State basketball team. Even after they killed their chances of sniffing the NCAA Tournament, they still pulled out comeback wins over Ohio State and Michigan. Chances of meaningful postseason basketball are zero, but chances of ruining someone else’s season have been pretty good. Still, I did not think that Penn State had a chance to upset Wisconsin on Tuesday night. Even after Penn State jumped out to a 12-2 lead and used pressure on defense to throw off the usually patient Badgers, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. It looked like it did drop when Wisconsin chipped away and chipped away and finally took the lead on a Max Klesmit three-point shot with five minutes to play. However, my Lions kept attacking the basket for layups and free throws while Qudus Wahab had a couple of huge blocks that led to a pair of rare stops.
Alma Mater hits different after a court storm. pic.twitter.com/aPauqclAbR
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 17, 2024
When Penn State held on for the 87-83 win, it was time for the students to rush the court. And we got a surprisingly good court storming for a game that started at 9:00 p.m. on a weeknight after a snowstorm. This was a win that Mike Rhoades can build on, and when Kanye Clary and Ace Baldwin Jr. are both scoring as efficiently as they did against Wisconsin, Penn State is going to be tough to beat.
Purdue established dominance over Indiana
I thought that Indiana had a great chance to cover the 9.5 points because Purdue had been shaky outside of West Lafayette. Wrong, wrong, wrong. The Boilermakers absolutely crushed their rivals 87-66 to ensure that they would not be swept by Indiana for the second straight season. Zach Edey really wanted to win in Bloomington before his ridiculous college career is over, and he showed it with 33 points and 14 rebounds while making more free throws than Indiana attempted as a team.
You don't see 7-4 dudes doing this very often. 😲@zach_edey x @BoilerBall
💻: Peacock pic.twitter.com/1smPMIScyH
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 17, 2024
Purdue held Kel’el Ware and Malik Reneau to 13 points combined, but they weren’t nearly as bad as Xavier Johnson. He has been a walking nightmare since coming back from a foot injury apart from a great game against Ohio State in which he scored 18 points to lead the Hoosiers to a much-needed win. In his other four games of 2024, Johnson has a total of four points and two flagrant fouls. Not a great ratio. In this one, Johnson went 0-for-5 from the field while scoring no points. May G-d have mercy on his soul.
Nebraska still can’t win on the road
When it comes to home vs. road performance, Nebraska might be the most bipolar team in the country. In conference play, the Cornhuskers are 3-0 in Lincoln with wins over Michigan State, Indiana, and Purdue. Away from Pinnacle Bank Arena, has been a different story. Nebraska has yet to record a Big Ten road win, and it blew a big opportunity to get one when it fell to Rutgers 87-82 in overtime on Wednesday night. The Cornhuskers were head by double digits in both the first half and the second half, but both times Rutgers came back and tied the score. Nebraska might have held on if it could get a damn rebound on defense, but in a performance that reminded me of my Nittany Lions, it allowed the Scarlet Knights to grab 25 rebounds on 48 missed field goals.
That is just disgusting, but you have to give some credit to Cliff Omoruyi and his freakishly long arms for battling and keeping Rutgers in the game despite its horrible shooting. Omoruyi grabbed 15 rebounds with six coming on offense and also blocked four shots to ensure that Nebraska shot the ball just as poorly as the Knights. The major rebounding advantage should have made it possible for the Knights to win this game in regulation, but they instead tortured their fans with missed free throws that kept Nebraska alive for five extra minutes. We were also treated to back-to-back turnovers in the final three seconds of regulation with a lengthy replay review added for good measure.
I don’t think this is what Fred Hoiberg had in mind drawing up Nebraska’s final play in regulation… pic.twitter.com/rOpaymobM1
— Ben Stevens (@BenScottStevens) January 18, 2024
It looked like Nebraska would get a chance to win with the score tied, but Rienk Mast tried to grab a ball on the sideline that clearly went off of Omoruyi’s shoe. If Mast had just let the ball go, the Huskers would have maintained possession, but replay showed that he touched the ball just before it went out of bounds. Rutgers then had a chance, but Nebraska trapped Derek Simpson as soon as he caught the inbounds pass, and he ended up traveling with almost no time coming off the clock. Given another chance, Fred Hoiberg in his infinite wisdom drew up a lob to C.J. Wilcher (a 6’5″ guard) instead of trying to get the ball to Keisei Tominaga, one of the best three-point shooters in the country. The play failed miserably, and Rutgers won in overtime.
Jahmir Young has no help
Maryland had a chance to build off its awesome win at Illinois with a win at Northwestern on Wednesday night, but stop me if you’ve heard this one before: Jahmir Young did not get any help and nearly broke his back trying to carry the Maryland offense. The super senior scored 36 points on 12-for-19 shooting with five assists, but thanks to zero points from the bench and subpar outings from Julian Reese and Donta Scott, the Terps fell to Northwestern, 72-69. Young even hit a clutch three-point shot to put Maryland ahead by one with 30 seconds left, but Boo Buie answered with a driving layup that would end up being the winning bucket.
BOO BUIE TAKES IT TO THE HOOP TO GO UP ONE! 😤 @NUMensBball x @booboo_buie pic.twitter.com/fyoZFfWXXc
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 18, 2024
Buie finished with 20 points and seven assists for a more balanced Northwestern team. While the Terrapin reserves were doing nothing, Matthew Nicholson came off the bench for the Wildcats and scored 10 points with five offensive rebounds.
Thursday’s results
Michigan State beat Minnesota in East Lansing and Illinois beat Michigan in Ann Arbor on Thursday night. Neither result was particularly surprising, but the Gophers impressed on the road by hanging with the Spartans for the first 35 minutes of the game. Michigan State finally pulled away (and nearly covered the 11.5-point spread) thanks to some strong transition offense led by Tyson Walker. When Sparty has success this season, it’s been because the team forces turnovers and scores quickly off of them. Minnesota would have had a chance to score a major upset if not for the 19-5 turnover disparity.
This is only January @JonRothstein pic.twitter.com/dj4YSYnxpp
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 19, 2024
In the late game, I thought that Illinois -2.5 looked like a trap, but I took it anyway because Illinois is a much better team than Michigan. The Illini came through and pulled away in the second half for a solid road win with much thanks to peak Coleman Hawkins. If Illinois can get this version of Hawkins in March, it can go far in the NCAA Tournament. The versatile center had 21 points, 10 rebounds (three on offense), four assists, and six steals while leading the Illini in all of those categories except for rebounds since Quincy Guerrier had 14. Hawkins also knocked down three shots from beyond the arc. There is not much this guy can’t do when he is at the top of his game.
The Big Ten never rests. Just when you think you can write a team like Maryland off because it can’t put the ball in the hoop, the Terps go on the road and beat Illinois for their first quality win of the season. That might be the best road win that any Big Ten team gets this season based on how Purdue and Wisconsin are playing at home. Maryland has had to rely on its defense because of how putrid its offense has been, but on Sunday in Champaign, Jahmir Young and Julian Reese played in tandem and looked like a dynamic duo as they set up each other for good looks at the hoop. Young missed all four of his three-point shots, but he finished 11-for-24 with 28 points and eight assists because of how great he was a driving to the bucket and using his teammates as screens. When the game came down to the wire, Reese bullied the Illini in the paint and picked up enough points to hold off Marcus Domask and company while forcing Coleman Hawkins to foul out. Maryland has a long way to go because of how bare its resume is, but now Kevin Willard’s team has a signature win and a formula to build around. Young and Reese scoring in the paint plus hounding defense that leads to transition points.
Geronimo!! Seals the win for the Terps!! 🙌 @TerrapinHoops pic.twitter.com/iyiuuDOFYg
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 14, 2024
By the way, Domask was a dawg in this one with some tough shots down the stretch to keep Illinois in the game while the rest of his team was shooting 12-for-45 (26 percent). Justin Harmon has been a key player for Illinois with Terrence Shannon Jr. suspended, but he was a big let down in this one, going 0-for-7 from the field. It will be interesting to see if the Terps can keep the good times rolling at Northwestern on Wednesday while Illinois looks to rebound on Thursday at Michigan, where the Wolverines finally broke their losing streak.
Yes, the Maize and Blue found another way to own their rivals with a win over Ohio State, this time on the basketball court. Dug McDaniel was back in action after serving one game of his bizarre road-only suspension, and he showed some of his old tricks by shooting 3-for-6 from beyond the arc on the way to 15 points and four assists. Terrance Williams II continued his senior-year breakout season with five three-point shots made on five attempts, including the dagger with about 30 seconds left. I will give Michigan credit. It did the thing where again where it blows a second-half lead, but it showed some mettle and bounced back to pick up the win. It looked like curtains for the Wolverines when Ohio State went on a 16-0 run to turn a 12-point deficit into a four-point lead with Bruce Thornton heating up.
Congrats to Michigan for finally holding a 2nd half lead! Only took a 40-percent disparity in three-point shooting 😬
Terrace Williams II hit all five of his shots from deep. Ohio State went 3-for-25. pic.twitter.com/DobEAY5aRb
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 15, 2024
Juwan Howard being back in the head coach’s chair following offseason heart surgery might have made the difference. Either that or it was the Fab Five being in the house. Maybe it was just Ohio State shooting 12 percent from three-point range thanks to a rare dud from Jamison Battle. No matter what, it was a much-needed win for Michigan.
Iowa is creeping into NCAA Tournament contention
Depending on who you ask, the Big Ten has six or seven schools in the NCAA Tournament field as of this moment. There are some schools with potential to move up, though. Indiana is 4-2 in league play and has a few big resume-building opportunities coming up. Iowa is another team that is building a case thanks to three straight wins over Rutgers, Nebraska, and Minnesota with more than 85 points scored in all of those games. Ben Krikke was carrying Iowa’s offense earlier in the season, but freshman Owen Freeman and sophomore Josh Dix have made major contributions lately to gas up the attack. Freeman is turning into a double-double machine who seems to win the Big Ten Freshman of the Week award almost every time. He was nigh unstoppable against a Nebraska team that was coming off a huge win over Purdue. Freeman turned into a miniature Zach Edey against them with 22 points on 11-for-13 shooting and 10 rebounds.
Josh Dix was COOKING! 🔥 @J0shDix x @IowaHoops pic.twitter.com/QSZ4JrEKHZ
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 16, 2024
Meanwhile, Dix has seen his role grow in a big way over the past two games thanks to some spicy three-point shooting. Against Nebraska on Friday, he came off the bench and sunk five triples to score a season-high 16 points. He topped that against Minnesota when he stepped into the starting five with Patrick McCaffrey dealing with an injury. Inside The Barn, Dix scored 21 points on 7-for-12 shooting with five assists. Iowa hasn’t gotten a ton of three-point shooting beyond Payton Sandfort this season, so Dix emerging should help spread out opposing defenses while giving Krikke and Freeman more room to operate in the paint. Don’t sleep on the Hawkeyes at home against Purdue this Saturday!
Check out tomorrow’s show, at chabdog.com. It’s the “Say Goodbye To Free Playoff Peacock” CDST Show, and it don’t cost nuttin.
You’ll get our slanted, sometimes warped, but always adverturous take of Saturday’s action, plus what’s in store for us on holy Sunday and on now-manic MLK Monday. Plus, ChabDog’s tips on how to increase business connectivity.
To review Day 1–
‘s results:
The other day I wondered if Wisconsin could build on its two impressive home wins that it opened the January portion of Big Ten play with. If the Badgers could beat Ohio State on the road, it would prove they have what it takes to compete for the Big Ten title. Well, what do you know? Greg Gard’s team came through for me and made me look like I know ball. I would later find out on Thursday night that I don’t really know ball, but I’ll take my wins where I can get them. Wisconsin and Ohio State went back and forth throughout the evening, but the Badgers pulled ahead at the end thanks to the unlikely heroics of Max Klesmit! He erupted for 18 points, all in the second half, and he helped Wisconsin close the game on a 19-4 run.
Wisconsin had gone seven minutes without a FG… all of a sudden Max Klesmit goes three, driving layup, three to put @BadgerMBB up six! pic.twitter.com/zcUdLfjrUf
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 11, 2024
This is what happens when you have a team as deep and talented as Wisconsin’s. Your top players don’t need to be at their best all the time if you’re going to win. Just look at Maryland. If Jahmir Young doesn’t score 30 points every night, the Terps are going to lose (unless Donta Scott goes nuts like he did to kill my Michigan spread bet). With the Badgers, they don’t need Chucky Hepburn or Tyler Wahl to carry the load all the time. It’s okay that Steven Crowl is banged up with a knee contusion. Someone like Klesmit or Connor Essegian can take over for a while and lift the team to victory. By the way, shout out to Jamison Battle of Ohio State, who continues to be the hottest shooter in the conference. He went 4-for-5 from deep for 18 points in a losing effort.
Penn State is back to frustrating me
If Penn State is not overcoming double-digit second half deficits in the Big Ten, it is giving up double-digit second half leads. That is what it seems like these days. Both of our conference wins featured big comebacks, while the Maryland loss was painful because of how many chances Penn State had to put the Terps away. Now we get to the Northwestern loss. It was a game that Penn State needed to have if I was going to entertain the notion of a winning conference campaign. With Purdue coming up, the Lions are likely to be below .500 the rest of the way because they blew a 10-point lead in the second half. The Wildcats went on a 19-2 run that was mostly due to two themes.
Here comes @NUMensBball. 😤 pic.twitter.com/cx0PbSGc6i
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall) January 11, 2024
First, Penn State could not hit a three-point shot all night. The team shot 3-for-17 from beyond the arc with two of the makes coming from D’Marco Dunn, who still does not play enough. He played 23 minutes, while Zach Hicks went 0-for-6 from deep in his 25 minutes. Those guys don’t play the same position, but Penn State should just go small since its defense stinks anyway. That brings us to the second reason for Northwestern’s run. Penn State cannot get a stop without a turnover. The Lions did a good job forcing 18 of them in this game, but they couldn’t stop the Wildcats from hitting 61 percent of their field goals. Boo Buie got wherever he wanted on the court, and when he was cut off, he found Ty Berry for a three-point shot or Brooks Barnhizer for a layup. The one good thing Penn State did was rebound the ball with 21 on defense compared to just two on offense for Northwestern. But it didn’t matter much when so many Northwestern shots were going in the bucket.
My Thursday night bets were a disaster
Michigan +6.5 was a catastrophe. Wolverines are the worst team in the Big Ten. No defense, no heart, and now no Dug McDaniel for a few games.
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) January 12, 2024
Michigan +6.5 and Illinois -3.5 each missed by half a point. And Michigan was leading for a good portion of the game while covering for the entire game until Maryland’s free throws in the final seconds. I found out before the game that Dug McDaniel had been suspended for the next six road games, but I still thought that the Wolverines would come through. It sure looked that way when Olivier Nkamhoua cut Michigan’s deficit to one with two and a half minutes left, but those were the last points his team would score and the Terps iced the game at the charity stripe.
I talk all the time about how Jahmir Young doesn’t get any help. Well, someone else finally stepped up while Young scored just 12 points on 3-for-11 shooting. Donta Scott scored 22 points with 20 of them coming the second half while Maryland outscored Michigan 43-24 to erase the 12-point lead that the Wolverines held at halftime. That is now two straight games in which Michigan has lost to one of the worst teams in the conference after leading by double digits at the half. It is a good thing that Michigan won that football title or its fans would be teetering on the edge of insanity. I am going to go out on a limb and say that McDaniel could have made a difference in this one since backup point guard Jaelin Llewellyn went 3-for-11 from the field with nine points while his backcourt mate Nimari Burnett was 2-for-9 with seven points.
The Michigan State vs. Illinois game was at least more entertaining. I was not counting on Michigan State playing so well on the road after it dropped its last two away games to Nebraska and Northwestern. Sparty still came up short in this one, but it looked more like an NCAA Tournament team this time around as it played with heart and fire throughout. A.J. Hoggard missed a three-point shot that could have tied the game in the final seconds, and then Jaden Akins grabbed the rebound and threw up a meaningless two-point shot so that Michigan State couldn’t foul one more time.
Illinois holds off the Spartans! pic.twitter.com/dfeqzRTk2K
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 12, 2024
Oh, and right before Hoggard’s game-tying attempt, Illinois’ Luke Goode missed the front end of a one-and-one that would have covered the spread. Betting is fun. Also, it turns out that Michigan State is pretty good when Tyson Walker gets some support and doesn’t have to be Superman. Malik Hall in particular made some plays for the Spartans and finished with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and three assists after being a total no-show against Northwestern. Michigan State didn’t shoot the three well (5-for-19), and that turned out to be the difference in a game that went back and forth in the second half.
Illinois, meanwhile, got another Swiss Army Knife performance from Coleman Hawkins. He went 3-for-5 from beyond the arc, grabbed seven rebounds, and blocked four shots. Hawkins is one of the most versatile players in the college game, and he’ll be at least a useful player in the NBA due to his wide variety of skills. I was also impressed by Ty Rodgers, who is perpetually invisible on offense. However, in this game he found his way into the paint and scored 15 points while carrying Illinois’ offense in the early going. This Illini squad is a force to be reckoned with and if Terrence Shannon Jr. ever has his suspension lifted, it could make a run for the national title.
The Big Ten is a grind and almost every team will have its ups and downs. Just look and what happened in the Big Ten over the weekend. Purdue got a big win over Illinois, one of its top competitors for the conference title. Based on how the Boilers responded to that loss at Northwestern in January, I thought it was fair to wonder if Matt Painter’s team would lose another game this season. That was stupid. Purdue got hammered by Nebraska on Tuesday, and just a couple of days earlier, the Huskers were humbled by Wisconsin. I should really start to take into account that even the best teams are vulnerable on the road and even the worst teams (not Nebraska, who is looking like an NCAA Tournament team; I’m talking about someone else…) can topple giants at home. The same was apparent in the other Tuesday game with Indiana fresh off a big win over Ohio State in Bloomington and Rutgers reeling from getting crushed by Iowa. So what happened? With the game in Piscataway, Rutgers easily handled Indiana. Here is what else we learned about the Big Ten since last Friday, besides the fact that home court is important.
Austin Williams will be an important factor for Rutgers going forward
Offense is a major issue for Rutgers. Steve Pikiell has relied on stifling defense to win games since arriving in New Jersey seven years ago, but this season getting stops is especially important because the Scarlet Knights are one of the worst shooting teams in the country. Even in the win over Indiana on Tuesday night, Rutgers only shot 32 percent from the field and 23 percent from three-point range. You can play elite defense and still lose by a dozen if you shoot the ball like that. It turned out that the Hoosiers were even more incompetent with 18 turnovers and an unbelievable performance from the free throw line that saw them go 4-for-15. That is so bad that a random fan from the stands could have easily done better.
Anyway, Williams is an experienced guard who played two seasons at Marist and two at Hartford before this year. He has played sparingly for Rutgers, but over the last two games, he has been featured more and has given the team a lift by shooting 11-for-17 with 24 points. He’s not a superstar by any means, but someone needs to score consistently for the Knights, and fans have to be sick of seeing Noah Fernandes disappear in every other game while Derek Simpson chucks up shots that go “clank.”
Wisconsin looks like Purdue’s top competitor with Connor Essegian back in the fold
I might as well talk about Wisconsin now since I just talked about how the Big Ten makes teams look so different depending on whether they are playing at home and on the road. Well, the Badgers have won four straight with all those coming in the Kohl Center. Plus, the last time they played on the road, they were spanked by Arizona 98-73 on December 9. Wisconsin also was crushed at Providence back in November. However, Wisconsin did win its one Big Ten road game at Michigan State, so maybe there is hope that this team can give Purdue a run for its money. It helps that the Badgers are 3-0 in the league after stomping Nebraska over the weekend.
A confident and healthy Connor Essegian is a dangerous man
pic.twitter.com/wAmLyHIJhF— Mark Titus Show (@MarkTitusShow) January 6, 2024
Another boost that Wisconsin gets is Connor Essegian, who was a big weapon last season when he scored 11.7 points per game as a freshman. This season, Essegian has barely played because of a back injury, but during the win over Nebraska, he finally looked like his old self with 12 points off the bench in just 12 minutes. The Badgers were doing fine with Essegian thanks to their usual efficient offense and stingy defense that doesn’t give away offensive rebounds. Plus, head coach Greg Gard brought back a ton of talent from a team that just missed the NCAA Tournament in 2023. With Essegian healthy again, Wisconsin can compete for the Big Ten Championship. Now please don’t lose to Ohio State tonight and make me look like an idiot.
Xavier Johnson coming back from injury is huge for Indiana
This Indiana team is way too talented to be on the NCAA Tournament bubble, but that’s where it is right now. That horrendous performance at Rutgers isn’t going to help matters, but the Hoosiers got a nice win at home against Ohio State on Saturday night, and there are plenty of opportunities to rack up wins. I think the return of Xavier Johnson from a foot injury will help a lot. He is a sixth-year super senior who Indiana does not have a legitimate replacement for at point guard. When Johnson missed all of December with the injury, Indiana was blown out by Auburn in Atlanta and dropped a close home game to Kansas that could have really boosted the IU resume. To Indiana’s credit, it won its two Big Ten games without Johnson, but those were against Michigan and Maryland, and we are about to talk about how much they suck.
Johnson looked very rusty in his return to action at Nebraska in a game that the Hoosiers lost, but against Ohio State, he was a major factor with 18 points while knocking down both of his three-point attempts and going 8-for-11 from the free throw line. That is the kind of production that Indiana needs from Johnson and if he plays like that, IU could jump into the upper tier of the league. Unfortunately, during the Rutgers game, Johnson had five turnovers compared to just two points and he got ejected for grabbing an opponent’s ball sack. Indiana fans would like to see more of the good Johnson during crucial upcoming home games against Minnesota and Purdue.
Michigan and Maryland will battle for who is the biggest disappointment in the Big Ten
Oh boy do these guys stink. I really thought Michigan was going to get hot in January with a favorable schedule, but instead it lost to Minnesota at home and to my Nittany Lions in Philadelphia. Michigan’s offense is very good thanks to Olivier Nkamhoua (“Cum-Hwah”) and his ability to stretch out the defense while scoring from multiple spots. Point guard Dug McDaniel has looked like a star at times, but he has not shot the ball well lately and has totaled just 20 points in Michigan’s last two games. The Wolverines also need to stop turning the ball over. They did so 19 times against Penn State and that helped them blow a 10-point halftime lead to a team they are more talented than. Michigan also turned the ball over 15 times in a surprising home loss to McNeese State while only forcing the Cowboys into four turnovers. Losing the turnover battle by 10 or more makes it hard to win games. It’s science.
If Michigan can get its head out of its ass, maybe it can earn a much-needed road win against Maryland this Thursday night. The Terps have a better record than Michigan, but at least Michigan can say it beat somebody. All of Maryland’s nine wins come against teams outside of the KenPom top 100, and only Penn State and UCLA are inside the top 200. Back in December, the road win over UCLA looked pretty decent, but the Bruins are playing like garbage with seven losses in their last eight.
Maryland’ defense has been good this year, and it held Purdue and Minnesota under 70 points, but the Terps have been shooting like Rutgers, and that should not happen when you have someone like Julian Reese who can score close to the basket. When Reese isn’t scoring his points in the post, way too much falls on the shoulders of Jahmir Young. That was apparent in the Purdue game, when Young scored 26 points, but that turned out to be just under half of Maryland’s total because Reese got shut out. The Terps had a chance to get right against Minnesota, and they led 29-22 at halftime, but 17 turnovers and a poor shooting night from Young (5-for-17) wasted solid effort from Reese and Donta Scott, who both scored 14 points. The Gophers won 65-62.
Keisei Tominaga is the Big Ten’s most electric player
Speaking of Minnesota, and before I get to Tominaga, let’s give a shout out to Elijah Hawkins, who has come out of nowhere to be one of the top point guards in the Big Ten. And by “come out of nowhere,” I mean he transferred from Howard, so that is almost literally accurate. You’d think that Hawkins would take some time to adjust to the higher level of play, but he has looked like a Big Ten veteran by the way he sees the court and knows when to call his own number. Hawkins is second in the country with 7.8 assists per game, and he totaled 16 assists in recent wins over Michigan and Maryland. Plus, he’s connecting on 39 percent of his three-point shots, so opponents cannot just stand back and cover the passing lanes. Minnesota’s non-conference schedule was super soft, but with Hawkins and Dawson Garcia, this team has the talent to make a run towards the NCAA Tournament.
OMG KEISEI TOMINAGA!!!! 💥 😱 He can't be stopped!@KeiseiTominaga x @HuskerMBB pic.twitter.com/5y7KBCIHTo
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 10, 2024
Now it is time to acknowledge the real king of the Big Ten. Keisei Tominaga has unlimited range and he showed on Tuesday night against Purdue that it doesn’t matter if you get a hand in his face. The man is just a walking and talking bucket who you have to base your whole defense around. In three Big Ten games since the calendar turned, Tominaga has totaled 64 points while shooting 12-for-25 from beyond the arc. Nebraska did not do much during non-conference play to build a resume, but it already has wins over Michigan State and Purdue at home, and that is enough to put it in the NCAA Tournament conversation. Now we get to see if Tominaga can hit daggers with opposing fans screaming at him because his next two games are at Iowa and at Rutgers. I would love to see the guy become a massive heel by celebrating in road arenas like he did against Purdue in Lincoln.
THE LINES AS SEEN BY ACE CHAB-STEIN:
Hello everyone and welcome to another Chabdog Sports Blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey sense that may or may not be functioning well based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4 Week 12: 9 Week 13: 7 Week 14: 7 Week 15: 3 Week 16: 9 Week 17: 8
SATURDAY PICKS
STEELERS -3 | RAVENS
TEXANS -1 | COLTS
SUNDAE PICKS
BUCCANEERS -4.5 | PANTHERS
BROWNS | BENGALS -7
VIKINGS | LIONS -3.5
JETS | PATRIOTS -1.5
FALCONS | SAINTS -2.5
JAGUARS -3.5 | TITANS
SEAHAWKS -3.5 | CARDINALS
BEARS | PACKERS -2.5
CHIEFS +3.5 | CHARGERS
BRONCOS | RAIDERS -2.5
EAGLES -4.5 | GIANTS
RAMS | 49ERS +4
COWBOYS | COMMANDERS +12.5
BILLS -2.5 | DOLPHINS
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 01/05/2024
Let me know in the comments your thoughts below, or where posted on the socials
| | @darthvaber99
I really thought that Michigan would take advantage of its three-game stretch against Minnesota, Penn State, and Maryland. It had a chance to start 2024 with three straight wins and build some momentum after a disappointing non-conference slate that saw it lose to Long Beach State and McNeese State, as well as four major conference teams. Instead, the Wolverines fell at home to a Minnesota team that has zero quality wins outside of Big Ten play. However, the Gophers clearly have talent and the win in Ann Arbor makes them a dark horse NCAA Tournament contender.
Minnesota 73, Minnesota 71
I hadn’t seen much of Minnesota before Thursday night because of their very low-profile schedule, and because of that schedule, it has a lot of work to do in Big Ten play to get the NCAA Tournament selection committee’s attention. Still, this win over Michigan wasn’t a fluke, and it was impressive how the Gophers limited Dug McDaniel and got balanced scoring to make up for superstar forward Dawson Garcia shooting 5-for-17 from the field. Mike Mitchell Jr. and Elijah Hawkins combined to shoot 8-for-14 from beyond the arc, and the defense was boosted by Pharrel Payne coming off the bench and protecting the rim with four blocked shots.
Michigan was SO CLOSE to tying the game, but the Gophers escape with a win in Ann Arbor. pic.twitter.com/2WGUaS04vL
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) January 5, 2024
Defense hasn’t been a strong point for the Gophers this season, but in Ann Arbor they held McDaniel to nine points on 3-for-11 shooting. McDaniel missed a runner at the buzzer that could have sent the game into overtime, and Michigan probably would have pulled the game out if he had his typical game. Instead, I was impressed with Minnesota’s point guard. Hawkins transferred from Howard, but he looks like he has played in the Big Ten for years. He knows when to pass and when to call his own number, and that’s why he’s averaging an incredible 7.7 assists per game. Hawkins is a diamond in the rough and I give Gophers head coach Ben Johnson a lot of credit for discovering him.
Michigan State 92, Penn State 61
I will start with the one positive and say that Penn State did a nice job rebounding the ball for once. Unfortunately, there were not many rebounds to be had because Michigan State knocked down 56 percent of its shots. This game was doomed from the beginning as my Nittany Lions could not stop turning the ball over and allowing Sparty to score in transition. As usual, Kanye Clary did his thing with 21 points on 5-for-10 shooting and five assists, but the supporting cast was mostly dreadful. Ace Baldwin Jr. was 0-for-7 from the field and the team as a whole shot 10 percent from three-point range. The most telling thing about this game was Jon Rothstein doing the Michigan State victory tweet at halftime.
Strong defense leads to easy offense.@MSU_Basketball pic.twitter.com/6CZN7X2GP8
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) January 5, 2024
Tyson Walker (22 points, 5 assists, 6 steals) and Malik Hall (24 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists) pretty much did whatever they wanted, and Sparty got a nice momentum-building win as it heads into 2024. Tom Izzo’s team is looking more formidable since the breakthrough win against Baylor.
Purdue 83, Illinois 78
You have to hand it to Brad Underwood. His Illinois team did not give up after falling behind 20-4 in the first half and 66-45 in the second half. The whole way it looked like this game was in Purdue’s pocket, but the Illini battled back and got to within one score when Coleman Hawkins hit a clutch three-point shot with 14 seconds to play. Sure, Illinois only got that close because of a bizarre flagrant foul called on Lance Jones when Quincy Guerrier fell over his back while Jones was boxing out, but it was still a decent showing for an Illinois team that has only played three games since the suspension of Terrence Shannon Jr.
💯 TKR was everywhere tonight.
Season-high 23 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists. pic.twitter.com/AzrjswKGP7
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) January 6, 2024
Underwood’s defense did a great job forcing the ball out of Zach Edey’s hands, and the superstar big man only scored 10 points. Instead, it was Trey Kaufman-Renn who stepped up and scored down low with a season-high 23 points. What really killed Illinois in this game was Purdue’s offensive rebounding. Even with Edey off the floor, Purdue was able to slap the ball around and keep possessions alive after misses. In fact, out of 33 missed shots by Purdue, 18 of them ended up back in the Boilers’ hands. That is a tough figure to overcome, even when Marcus Domask came alive for Illinois in the second half. Overall, he scored 26 points with five assists while proving to be the straw that stirs the drink for Illinois. I love how Domask is an old-school player who starts backing down his defender at the three-point line. Once Domask gets within 15 feet of the basket, his jumper is tough to stop. Illinois’ opponents will have a tough time getting Domask out of his office this season.
For Purdue, this game was another example of why it is the best team in the country, but keeping Edey out of foul trouble will continue to be a tricky obstacle. It was encouraging to see Illinois fight its way out of an early hole, while Domask and Guerrier are showing that they can put the ball in the bucket to make up for Shannon Jr.’s absence.
The Big Ten action will stay hot all weekend with three games on Saturday and three on Sunday. Rutgers and Iowa clash in a battle of NCAA Tournament hopefuls that desperately need a conference win. Nebraska looks to keep surprising the country with a win at Wisconsin. Indiana has a chance to boost its bubble resume with Ohio State in town. Michigan can probably kiss its hopes and dreams goodbye if it loses to Penn State. Minnesota can prove itself again with a win over Maryland. Finally, Michigan State will try to keep its winning streak alive in the place where Purdue suffered its only loss.
Well-read hasn’t yet put up the number of points Pittsburgh is getting, but irregardless I’m going with my Steelers in Game 1 to beat whatever spread the world says awaits. My decision came to me in a vision, after listening to this song for about the 50th time in the last two weeks, my favorite off of the Stones’ latest album.
When the whole wide world’s against you
And you’re standing in the rain
When all your friends have let you down
And treat you with disdain
When the whole wide world’s against you
And that’s got you on the run
And you think the party is over
But it’s only just, only just begun
Yes, the playoff party’s only just begun… when Mike’s minions take down some purple birds who will mostly sit Lamar and lay some eggs.
I have loved following Big Ten Basketball ever since I was a freshman at Penn State and I realized that while my Nittany Lions were incompetent, there were some other fun teams in the conference. In later years, Penn State would be one of those fun teams, and that was very cool for a bit. In 2024, it looks like that will not be the case, but there is still plenty of excitement in the Big Ten. I guess I’ll try to turn it into content.
There have been five games played since conference play started back up on January 2. Here’s what happened.
Purdue 67, Maryland 53
The Terps tried to fool us with a five-game winning streak in December which included an overtime victory over my Nittany Lions that we practically gave away with our pathetic lack of rebounding as well as an actual quality road win over UCLA. However, it turns out that the Terps still can’t shoot and they still stink. Maybe that is a little harsh since Maryland was playing the best team in the country, but I expected a little more fight from Kevin Willard’s team. Instead, Purdue jumped out to a 16-4 lead and stayed on top throughout the game, while Maryland got very little from anyone not named Jahmir Young. The super senior scored a ridiculous 26 of Maryland’s 53 points, and he shot 12-for-23 while the rest of the team was just 9-for-40. No wonder Young had zero assists on the night. He had almost no help, including a goose egg from Julian Reese, who averages 13.3 points per game! And Purdue is a team you need help against.
Ball movement on 💯. All night. pic.twitter.com/tobVaECayL
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) January 3, 2024
The Boilers were not even that good on offense, although they did shoot 9-for-20 from beyond the arc. Zach Edey had his typical game with 23 points and 12 rebounds on 8-for-13 shooting, while Braden Smith pitched in with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. It was an easy win for Purdue, who can now focus on the Friday night showdown with Illinois coming up.
Wisconsin 83, Iowa 72
We should have known that Wisconsin would cover the five-point spread when the team held a moment of silence for Herb Kohl before the game. He was the owner of the Milwaukee Bucks and a U.S. senator, but more importantly in this case, he was the man who the Kohl Center was named after. It was only fitting that Wisconsin’s home-court advantage would be on full display the week after Kohl passed away. The game was tied 32-32 at halftime, but the Badgers pulled away in the final 20 minutes thanks to the 26 free throws they attempted in the second half. Iowa got called for a ton of fouls, and that resulted in its best player Ben Krikke being limited to 20 minutes while Wisconsin’s Tyler Wahl scored 11 of his team-high 19 points from the charity stripe.
WHAT A SEQUENCE❗@BadgerMBB just turned defense into highlight baskets on back-to-back possessions. 👀
📺: Big Ten Network pic.twitter.com/HE8MmkGXR7
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 3, 2024
Tony Perkins (25 points) and freshman sensation Owen Freeman (14 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks) stood out for Iowa, but it was not enough to keep up with Wisconsin’s second half surge. The Badgers are now 2-0 in Big Ten play, while the Hawkeyes fell to 0-3 and they are in desperate need of a win at home against Rutgers on Saturday.
Illinois 96, Northwestern 66
Illinois has now played two games since Terrence Shannon Jr. was charged with rape in Kansas and suspended by the university. In those two games, the Illini have scored a total of 200 points. The first game was against Fairleigh Dickinson, but this one against a Northwestern team that has already beaten Purdue is impressive. We knew that someone would have to step up with Shannon Jr. out indefinitely, and Marcus Domask showed that his superstar performance against Florida Atlantic last month was not a fluke. He scored 32 points on 11-for-15 shooting with six assists. Unlike Shannon Jr., Domask is not someone who will blow you away with his athleticism, but he’s a great technician who can score from anywhere on the floor. Plus, he’s got experience out the wazoo since he was a double-figure scorer in all four of his years at Southern Illinois.
Highlights of No. 9 Illinois' 96-66 victory vs. Northwestern#Illini | #HTTO | #EveryDayGuys pic.twitter.com/bkndeBajdd
— Illinois Men's Basketball (@IlliniMBB) January 3, 2024
Domask wasn’t the only transfer to step up against Northwestern, though. Justin Harmon scored 20 off the bench and went 4-for-5 from beyond the arc despite averaging just 6.4 points per game this season. Harmon has come along slowly for Illinois, but he was a major scorer for Utah Valley and he clearly knows how to put the ball in the hoop if given room to operate. For Northwestern, this was a big setback defensively. Chris Collins’ team allowed just 46 points each in back-to-back wins over DePaul and Arizona State in December, but Illinois is a different animal. I like what Collins said after the game: “We can’t take this game and flush it, forget about it. We have to understand why we couldn’t guard them and fix the problems.”
It’s easy as a fan to say you want to burn the game tape and forget about it, but the coach needs to figure out what went wrong and fix it if Northwestern is going to return to the NCAA Tournament. The Cats’ win over Purdue will help that cause, but they also have a shocking loss to Chicago State as a stain on their resume, so there is work to be done.
Ohio State 76, Rutgers 72
We had to wait until Wednesday to get our first highly competitive Big Ten game of the new year. Rutgers fell behind by 13 at halftime thanks to Jamison Battle’s hot shooting. He hit five three-point shots in the first half and scored 17 of his 22 points before the break. However, the Scarlet Knights fought back in the second half and trailed by just a point with 3:20 to play. If not for a rare bucket by Evan Mahaffey and a huge three-point shot by Roddy Gayle Jr., Rutgers might have pulled off the sorely-needed upset. It would have been the second straight Big Ten collapse for the Buckeyes, as they lost to my Nittany Lions back on December 9 despite leading by 18 in the second half. Instead, Ohio State is looking like a good bet to redeem itself after a 5-15 conference slate in 2023. A lot of that is thanks to Bruce Thornton, who is one of the most underrated guards in the Big Ten. He scored 24 points against Rutgers with 7 assists.
Have a NIGHT, @battletime510 😤👏
12 points so far in the first half for @OhioStateHoops pic.twitter.com/2UeRQ17jwL
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 4, 2024
The Knights, meanwhile, got some solid guard play from Derek Simpson (23 points, 8 rebounds) and Noah Fernandes (17 points), but offense continues to be a struggle for them. Rutgers shot just 6-for-24 from three-point range and had 7 assists on 27 made baskets. There is no pure point guard on the roster, and that is going to make scoring an uphill battle.
Nebraska 86, Indiana 70
In the biggest surprise of the early Big Ten slate, Nebraska not only upset Indiana, but it boat raced the Hoosiers and led comfortably throughout the second half. I expected the Indiana offense to get a boost from the return of Xavier Johnson to the backcourt, but he might have come back too soon from his foot injury. Johnson played only 14 minutes and finished with zero points, 4 turnovers, and 3 assists. Big man Kel’el Ware was a beast for Indiana with 20 points on 9-for-12 shooting to go with 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 steals, but it was not enough to keep up with Nebraska’s Japanese shooting star Keisei Tominaga. Tominaga Time was in full effect with a game-high 28 points on 4-for-10 three-point shooting. Twice in the second half Indiana appeared on the verge of narrowing the deficit to single digits only for Tominaga to nail a triple right in its face. The Hoosiers were also demoralized by 19 turnovers.
Nebraska's Keisei Tominaga dropped 28 to lead the Cornhuskers to their first win over Indiana since the 2017-18 season 🔥 pic.twitter.com/V6luIwcb2B
— B/R Hoops (@brhoops) January 4, 2024
I didn’t take Nebraska very seriously when it was plowing through tomato cans in November, and I took it even less seriously when it followed up that 7-0 start with losses to Creighton and Minnesota. However, the Cornhuskers have since defeated Michigan State, Kansas State, and Indiana to put themselves on pace for the NCAA Tournament. Their new frontcourt duo of Rienk Mast and Josiah Allick give them the grit to balance out the scoring prowess of Tominaga and Brice Williams. Fred Hoiberg just might have stumbled onto something with his latest transfer portal crop.
but were afraid to ask…
All you ever wanted to know about something almost as good as sex, … a Steeler playoff berth (or is it birth)… the position for me that is the best is the one where we get a playoff climax, from a Steeler loss, accompanied by a Cougar, no Jaguar, taming, combined with a Bronco busting win and something between the Colts and the Texans that doesn’t involve handcuffs or a tie.
Here’s The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Week 18 Path To The Playoffs
SATURDAY JANUARY 6, 2024:
1. 4:30 PM (EST) STEELERS @ RAVENS — I’m going down this year and out of the funny money (in this particular affair), so I might as well go Steelers. Baltimore ain’t playing for squat, so they just won’t have the mojo they need. We beat’m before and we’ll do it again. STEELERS ALL THE WAY WITHOUT A DOUBT!!!!
2.- 8:15 PM (EST) TEXANS @ COLTS — Colts got lucky last week and in their perverse minds think they are in anyway. Texans will take this one. TEXANS.
SUNDAY JANUARY 7, 2024:
3. 1 PM JAGUARS @ TITANS — Jags win, unfortunately for my Stillers.
4. 1 PM FALCONS @ SAINTS — This why the Saints drive me crazy. They should win this game, but isn’t this the classic trap. GOING SAINTS NONETHELESS
5. 1 PM JETS @ PATS (just for the hell of it) — Going with the PATS.
6. 1 PM BUCCANEERS @ PANTHERS –Seems to catastrophicly obvious… Going BUCS!!!!
7. 4:25 PM COWBOYS @ COMMANDERS (Commadores now got #2 draft pick!!! Dont blow it guys) — This game used to be worth televising. Now it isn’t worth even commenting on. COWBOYS WIN.
8. 4:25 PM EAGLES @ GIANTS — Can the Eagles beat anyone anymore? Still going EAGLES.
9. 4:25 PM BEARS @ PACKERS — Packers can’t afford to lose this, but could. Still going PACKERS.
10. SNF- BILLS @ DOLPHINS (Winner takes AL East – Miami in regardless-Bills could be in or out with loss, depending on others) –Never rooted this hard for Miami. And I’ll be rewarded, god willing. MIAMI wins.
Hello everyone and welcome to another Chabdog Sports Blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey sense that may or may not be functioning well based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4 Week 12: 9 Week 13: 7 Week 14: 7 Week 15: 3 Week 16: 9
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
JETS | BROWNS -7.5
Getting the chalk on tonight’s game because I didn’t make a pick before kick-off. Need the Browns to keep the lead here @NewportBest_ https://t.co/HCw6Yd2Biy pic.twitter.com/oirjt4QMpZ
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 29, 2023
SATURDAY PICK
LIONS | COWBOYS -6
Getting the chalk tonight because I did so well against the Jets earlier this week. Cowboys are -6 & the Lions are keeping it close, however, I got faith in America’s team because @PotatoGobbler is a fan & he’ll make sure they turn on their jets here in the 4th 💪 https://t.co/eRmyVxtngX
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 31, 2023
SUNDAE PICKS
PATRIOTS +13 | BILLS
DOLPHINS | RAVENS -3.5
TITANS | TEXANS -4.5
RAIDERS | COLTS -3.5
PANTHERS +6.5 | JAGUARS
RAMS -4.5 | GIANTS
CARDINALS | EAGLES -10.5
49ERS | COMMANDER +13.5
FALCONS | BEARS -3
SAINTS | BUCCANEERS -2.5
BENGALS | CHIEFS -7
STEELERS | SEAHAWKS -4
CHARGERS | BRONCOS -3.5
PACKERS +2.5 | VIKINGS
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 12/27/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts below, or where posted on the socials
| | @darthvaber99
I learned the truth week 17
That love was meant for Brock Purdy
And Detroit Lions with clear skinned smiles
Barry quit and then retired
The Superbowls I never knew
The Monday night charades of youth
Were spent on one more parlay
Week 17 I learned the truth
And those of us with ravaged bets
Lacking in winning ways
Desperately kept betting Cards
Inventing bookies on the phone
Who called to say, “You won today”
And murmured Rams obscenities
It isn’t about Stafford’s injuries
Week 17
The Cleveland Browns in hand-me-downs
Okoronkwo’s name I never could pronounce
Said, “Pity please Deshaun Watson
He only gets what he deserves”
And the rich relationed Cowboy’s queen
Marries into Jerry’s team
With a guarantee of Mike McCarthy
And haven for Rafael Septien
To those Vikings fans who knew the pain
Of Superbowls that never came
And Colin Kaepernick was never called
By the Jets, Pats, or Bennnngals
It was long ago and far away
The NFL was younger than today
And dreams were all they gave for free
To Redskins fans like me
Bills fans play the game when they dare
To cheat themselves at Edwards-Helaire
Becoming losers on Mahomes
Loosing over and over wins unknown
They call and say, “You won today”
And murmur Rams obscenities
At ugly Redskins like me
Week 17
Lions (Lions are just better, pure and simple), Patriots (Bills are still overrated), Ravens (Best team in the AFC … by far), Texans (Titans are a titanic flop), Raiders (that defense will chew up and spit out Minchew), Panthers (Panthers are on the rise, Jags have hit a major snag), Rams (cuz the Giants just suck), Eagles (don’t deserve that spread, but whatever.. cannot bring myself to go Cards), Commanders (Niners bubble was burst a bit last week and that margin is just too rich), Bears (they’ve been playing better… and FFing Falcons can suck my arse on the road), Buccs (I’m like butter… on a roll against the stinking Saints), Bengals (who’s afraid of the Chiefs… not me!), Steelers (they have to win and will keep it close), Broncos (Sean Payton, Sean Payton, Sean Payton LOL), Vikings (Pick Mullens over Love Child)
— The Ravens took apart the Niners today, exposing their “issues” with mobile quarterbacks. But the red alert on this group goes beyond that. Brock Purdy again showed us his inexperienced, unsteady side … the side we had a glimpse of last year in the playoffs… real problems dealing with physical and fast linebackers and a beastly pass rush. I hope the Rams were taking notes on this game. And the Steelers just got a big hand out from their AFC North buddies.
— Eagles push back the G-men, maintain their sanity, but didn’t look that convincing in the process.
The tush push is still money, but the defense is steadily becoming devalued and the offense seems to be
strangely pass heavy and impatient; sounds like it needs a therapist.
–Give the Raiders a lot credit … character I wasn’t positive they had … in stuffing that dysfunctional Chiefs offense all day, and in adding another wrinkle to what is shaping up to be an incredibly complicated AFC Wild Card picture. Baltimore may well have nothing to gain in that season ending finale against Pittsburgh, and LV should play that much harder against the Colts, knowing that they could, conceivably catch the Chiefs for the division. Just sayin.
— Just like Harry Christmas, Bailey Zappe is more than happy to totally redeem himself
for a shining Christmas in Colorado.
— In the end, it was Masterful Mullens giving way to Nick The Pick, and determined Dan’s Detroit clinched the Norris Division title with two weeks to spare.
— Tampa keeps on making hay with Baker May…. meanwhile, it appears the Jags have hit more than a snag
— Hold your head up Mr. Young, progress is being made and Bryce guys can finish first… but today you lost to the Packer attackers.
— Tough tough loss for a Commanders’ squad that fought back so effectively. And contrats to a Jet’s’ team that just keep scrapping for their dignity and respect.
— Seattle didn’t in any way knock the cover off the ball, but it did cover.
— This appears to be a tailor-made situation for mending by Taylor.
Hello everyone and welcome to another Chabdog Sports Blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey sense that may or may not be functioning well based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4 Week 12: 9 Week 13: 7 Week 14: 7 Week 15: 3
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
SAINTS | RAMS -4
https://t.co/6ztJ2JUGZE pic.twitter.com/bkT9XpXsTm
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 21, 2023
SATURDAY PICKS
BENGALS -2 | STEELERS
BILLS -12 | CHARGERS
🐅-2 || 🦬-12 https://t.co/2y5qdbULNO pic.twitter.com/rrLkwN9MS4
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 23, 2023
My post-game reaction to the Bengals losing to the Steelers and the Chargers covering the spread against the Bills…
My NFL picks is why I sign autos at my local mall 👍 https://t.co/BWHwlwwFZG pic.twitter.com/VjQF8sJE1G
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 24, 2023
SUNDAE PICKS
COMMANDERS +3 | JETS
BROWNS -2.5 | TEXANS
SEAHAWKS -2.5 | TITANS
LIONS -3 | VIKINGS
COLTS +1 | FALCONS
PACKERS -4.5 | PANTHERS
JAGUARS | BUCCANEERS -1
COWBOYS +1.5 | DOLPHINS
CARDINALS | BEARS -4
PATRIOTS | BRONCOS -6.5
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICKS
RAIDERS +10 | CHIEFS
GIANTS +12 | EAGLES
RAVENS | 49ERS -5.5
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 12/20/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts below, or where posted on the socials
| | @darthvaber99
— Thanks god, on behalf of all Steeler fans, for reminding us what a really good Henry Steeler game looks like. Speaking of looks, has anybody seen these two guys aka Henry Steeler in the same room.
— In the end, the Bills did what they had to do, and that was it. Nothing very fancy, and the win raises some old questions about Buffalo’s quite obvious attention deficit disorder condition. That nothwithstanding, they’re still standing, and it’s now time for McDaniel’s Miami to… perform. And Charger chariot performed pretty good, at least for a while, with drive in Stick and Giff.
find out whether we blow out the competition or blow ourselves up in the chaotic uncertainty that is addressing and assessing the pro football spreads….
Can the Ravens surprise on the upside against the favored Forty Niners? Will the real Lions come out to play? Can the Bills continue to stomp on the graves of the dead men not charging Chargers? Why the Falcons should have nothing to worry about, since I’m picking against them. And of course, the prospects that last week’s weak Cowboys have against the homestanding Dolphins blessed with Tyreek.
And as for our intramural competitions, Well-read tries in vain to inch ahead, in a titanic struggle with Dorothy D, while A-ron, Abe and a chagrined ChabDog vie for the prized scraps in the second cluster.
Give me the saints +4 tonite in the bukake fest at Inglewood @chabdogsports pic.twitter.com/Mtm5w1jVE4
— Well Read Producer ChabDog.com (@NewportBest_) December 21, 2023
I am hearing and seeing lots of stories about team infighting, people saying this, people saying that. Used to be our team did less talking and more doing… on the field. This team’s brand equity has taken a serious hit, and more damage can be done if we continue to adhere to the philosophy that a record barely above .500 is commensurate with what Steeler Nation deserves, and should expect.
In the words of Maggie from Caddyshack, “here goes nuttin”:
1 TNF- SAINTS @ RAMS — Aaron Donald must be licking his chops with Carr coming to town. GOING RAMS! JUST RAM IT, BABY!!!
(Due Thurs Noon)
Sat. Dec 23 (PacTime):
2 1:30PM- BENGALS @ STEELERS (Oh No- not Pitt again?)– Thank you Brian for continuing this public shaming; once again, the Steelers cannot be saved from their dysfunctional offense, this time directed by Henry Steeler. GOING BENGALS.
3 5PM- BILLS @ CHARGERS (a pair of inconsistant teams that consistantly under-achieve) — Too bad this game couldn’t be flexed out of peacock. Josh Allen will be strutting around like a peacock after the Bills trample the Chargers. GOING BIG WITH THE BILLS.
(Sat Picks due Fri 9PM)
Sun. “Christmas Eve” Dec 24:
4 10AM WASHINGTON @ JETS — Washington in a worthless win over the now completely irrelevant Jets. GOING WITH THE ‘SKINS!
5 1:25PM- DALLAS @ MIAMI (Thank You Gidget) — Dallas must smell blood in the water after the latest Eagles implosion. I gotta believe they can pull out a win in Miami. GOING WITH DALLAS.
Mon. “Christmas Day-3” Dec 25:
6 10AM- RAIDERS @ CHIEFS — This is a Christmas gift. OF COURSE GOING CHIEFS.
7 1:30PM- GIANTS @ EAGLES — Giants are in the wrong place at the wrong time. GOING EGGLES.
8 5PM- RAVENS @ NINERS — Cliffhanger goes to …THE RAVENS… why not? GOING RAVENS…
Hurts did a lot right in this game, and showed
true grit in going out there and almost getting it done,
but look who executed in the end and who got executed.
Say what you want about Pete Carroll, but his players have his
back and vice versa. Where have we seen this before … the team that has to win does, at the expense of the less desperate, favored guy. In the melee that ensued, Pete pushed the
right bottons, while Siriani picked the wrong time to go deep.
With two timeouts and needing only 10-15 yards for a decent field goal attempt, Jalen threw it up for grabs, something he hadn’t really been able to do all night.
This game hurt the Eagles a lot more than the additional entry in the loss column. Just as with KC, the generalized fear around the league seems to be done.
Hello everyone and welcome to another Chabdog Sports Blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey sense that may or may not be functioning well based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4 Week 12: 9 Week 13: 7 Week 14: 7
Also, need to honorably mention that you have exactly a 50/50 chance of making any money off my picks based on my past 14-week performance. Is this good? Well, if this were straight win-or-loss picks then it simply be par for the course. However, since I’m playing against a Vegas points spread, I would say it’s more like shooting a birdie. Not a hole-in-one, not an eagle, but maybe a birdie (with a little wind to push the ball in). The goal for me is to clock over 50% by the end of the season and fortunately, I have a few more weeks to hit this goal. With that, let us open the doors to this amazing candy factory and reveal Week 15’s NFL picks (AST).
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
CHARGERS | RAIDERS -3
-3 is the Christmas 🎁 I wasn’t expecting this year 🤣🤣🤣 @NewportBest_ #RaiderNation https://t.co/1IIadvNe9z
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 15, 2023
SATURDAY PICKS
VIKINGS | BENGALS -3
STEELERS | COLTS -1.5
BRONCOS +4 | LIONS
SUNDAE PICKS
BEARS | BROWNS -3
FALCONS -3 | PANTHERS
JETS +8.5 | DOLPHINS
TEXANS | TITANS -3
BUCCANEERS | PACKERS
GIANTS +6 | SAINTS
49ERS | CARDINALS +12.5
COMMANDERS | RAMS -6.5
COWBOYS +2 | BILLS
RAVENS -3 | JAGUARS
CHIEFS | PATRIOTS +7.5
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
EAGLES -4 | SEAHAWKS
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 12/14/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts below, or where posted on the socials
| | @darthvaber99
It’s that extra good time of year, when Saturday goes from sleepy to intensely physical, if not violent, wetting our appetite for the intensity of super Sunday. We discuss it all on this week’s CDST “Taking a shine to Tommy Devito’s shine box?, NFL Week 15 Preview Show.” We’ll do some accident reconstruction from the day before, and look ahead to whether the Ex-Texans will teach Houston a lesson, whether the Jets get grounded in South Beach, whether catching the Chiefs on the rebound is still dangerous, and whether the thought of Sean Payton is making the Lions cowardly.
This and many other sub-plots, including Well-read’s concerted effort to bravely pull-away from the rest of the group’s gravitational pull, and ChabDog’s barely audible barking from the basement.
First let me preface this by saying I don’t have access to Phil Kissfan Dunn’s one of a kind ranking system, including the ass and superass categories. All I know is the Steelers ARE Iowa. Here goes —
THUR. DEC 14:
1. TNF- CHARGERS @ RAIDERS — Gotta go with the Chargers…. The guy from Purdue is the superass of all QBs.
(Pick due THUR by Noon)
SAT. DEC 16:
2. 1PM (ET)- VIKINGS @ BENGALS — You gotta be freaking kidding that the Vikes are favored. I’d be seriously mulling the soundness of any assumption that you can rely on Mullens.
3. 4:30PM- STEELERS @ COLTS — Computer models are saying Colts by about 3… so who am I to argue. COLTS.
4. 8:15PM- BRONCOS @ LIONS — I’ll go with the Lions, quite meekly into the night and without much conviction. Lions win by a whisker.
(These Picks due FRIDAY Dec 15 by 9 PM)
SUN. DEC 17:
5. 1PM- BUCCANEERS @ PACKERS– Packers will live to fight another day after being gutted like the deer in Goodfellas. I’ve been picking against the Buccs are year. Why stop now. Packers.
6. 1PM- FALCONS @ PANTHERS — So hate the prospect of picking the Falcons for anything, after they picked me apart last week in Atlanta. But the Panthers are super bowl champion ass when it comes to offense, which suits the Falcons just fine. Falcons.
7. 4:05PM- COMMANDERS @ RAMS — Finally one that I don’t have to think about… yeah right. RAMS.
8. 4:25PM- COWBOYS @ BILLS (c/o Douglas-TY)– Bills are favored by 2 here, which in mind isn’t justified. Going Cowboys on this one. COWBOYS.
9. SNF- RAVENS @ JAGUARS– Jackson will juke and zag around the Jags, who lose their third in a row overall, and second in a row at home. RAVENS
MON. DEC 18:
10. MNF- EAGLES @ SEAHAWKS
(SUN & MON Picks are due SAT Dec 16 by 9 PM) — Eagles need to save some face. And they will against the Hawks. EAGLES.
Hello everyone and welcome to another Chabdog Sports Blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey sense that may or may not be turned on based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4 Week 12: 9 Week 13: 7
Also, need to honorably mention that you have exactly a 50/50 chance of making any money off my picks based on my past performance. Is this good? Well, if this were straight win-or-loss picks then it simply be par for the course. However, since I’m playing against a Vegas points spread, I would say it’s more like shooting a birdie. Not a hole-in-one, not an eagle, but maybe a birdie (with a little wind to push the ball in). The goal for me is to clock over 50% by the end of the season and fortunately, I have a few more weeks to hit this goal. With that, let us open the doors to this amazing candy factory and reveal Week 14’s NFL picks (AST).
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK Steelers -6 🔒 https://t.co/MxYvBGvASs — Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 7, 2023
Need you to know I handled losing this pick very well & why you should follow me on X @darthvaber99
When you pick the Steelers @ -6 pic.twitter.com/5bEnOc5Mhf
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) December 8, 2023
SUNDAE PICKS
TEXANS -5.5 | JETS
RAMS +7 | RAVENS
COLTS | BENGALS +1
JAGUARS +3 | BROWNS
LIONS -3.5 | BEARS
BUCS +2.5 | FALCONS
PANTHERS +5.5 | SAINTS
VIKINGS -3 | RAIDERS
SEAHAWKS | 49ERS -10.5
BILLS +2.5 | CHIEFS
BRONCOS +3 | CHARGERS
EAGLES | COWBOYS -3
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
TITANS | DOLPHINS -13.5
PACKERS -6.5 | GIANTS
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 12/06/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts below, or where posted on the socials
| | @darthvaber99
Tune in this Sunday at 9 am sharp for the “Bay City Controllers: Week 14 NFL Preview Show. ” ChabDog explains why this year, the Lombardi Trophy will return at long last to San Francisco. This year, the game should be played on SSSSaturday Night.
Other points of interest include:
Can Kansas City continue its charmed life?
Can Allen redeem himself? Ever? Truly?
Can the Saints ever cover?
Can the Eagles get a little more time off?
Can Browning continue to sizzle?
Can Well-read finally make his move on Dorothy.
Can ChabDog make it back to .see level.
As for Karaoke: Don’t Ask Me No Questions… about that
Another excruciating humuliation for the Steelers, who only witsh they had been this close. Tonight’s victims of Belichick’s handcuffs needed another 30 yards,… which seemed more like a mile. The defense did what it needed to do … not its best work, but clearly good enough. The offense was often listless, never reliable and definitely sputtering. The running game was running on empty, and the Steelers don’t thrive or survive well in that environment. The Legend of Jesse James is alive and well in Acrisure.
For the record @BrandonChabner1 is betting against his beloved @steelers again for the second week in a row and I'm joining in Patriots +6 @AaronPYorke @DarthVaber99 @DorothyDawn @chabdogsports pic.twitter.com/VZRIsaUvzO
— Well Read Producer ChabDog.com (@NewportBest_) December 7, 2023
Drops more bombs than a B-52 pic.twitter.com/wvEfXAk7nN
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 7, 2023
FILE PHOTO – Members of the band Lynyrd Skynyrd backstage after performing in the 47th annual Grammy Awards at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, U.S. on February 13, 2005. REUTERS/Mike Blake/File Photo
THU DEC 7:
1.TNF- PATRIOTS @ STEELERS – Ooh that smell. Can’t you smell that smell. That was some rank stank from both of this Thursday night’s offenses. Nonetheless, I’ve gotta believe Pittsburgh’s defense does have ability to impose its will on Mack “Home alone on an island” Jones. STEELERS .
(Pick due Thursday Noon)
SUN DEC 10:
2. 1PM (EST)- LIONS @ BEARS — Rumor has it the Lions are a less than five point favorite in this one. Seriously, did the Bears’ stock rise so much with the Dobbs debacle. You can certainly call the Lions the breeze when that speed gets going. LIONS ALL OVER THE BEARS.
3 1PM- COLTS @ BENGALS — Gotta admit this hurts getting burned by the stache with the panache… Gardner the QB. But I’ve gotta go with Cincy. They may’be found something last week with Jack Browning. Browning might not have rifle, but he’s quick, accurate and in terms of composure seemed to have something special,,, not Saturday Night Special… but the one for Sunday afternoon. BENGALS
4 4:05PM-VIKINGS @ RAIDERS — Raider Haiders will hate this one. RRRAIDERS WIN.
5 4:25PM- BILLS @ CHIEFS (Noelani’s Choice) -No .. something tells me the Bills are gonna give the Chiefs a few more than 3 steps of buffer. MAJOMES wins this game with his legs. CHIEFS.
6. SNF- EAGLES @ COWBOYS — Freebirds, they are not. Eagles still look somewhat spent, and Cowboys have been wating for this game for some time. HOW BOUT THEM WINNING COWBOYS!!!!
MON DEC 11 (There are 2):
7. MNF {ESPN}- TITANS @ DOLPHINS -Sweet home Miami. Another rather dull blowout for the FINS..
8. MNF {ABC}- PACKERS @ GIANTS — Packers just keep looking better and better. Even a downhome simple man can see the G-men don’t have a snowball in hell’s chance to win this.
BOTH @ 8:15PM EST
(Sun & Mon Due Saturday Dec 9 @ 9 PM EST)
Hello everyone and welcome to another blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey-sense that may or may not be turned on based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4 Week 12: 9
THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
Cowboys -9 🔒
Place your bets…
— Abe Miranda (@DarthVaber99) November 30, 2023
SUNDAE PICKS
CHARGERS -5.5 | PATRIOTS
FALCONS -2.5 | JETS
CARDINALS | STEELERS -5.5
COLTS -1 | TITANS
DOLPHINS -9.5 | COMMANDERS
LIONS -4 | SAINTS
PANTHERS | BUCS -5.5
BRONCOS +3.5 | TEXANS
49ERS | EAGLES +3
BROWNS | RAMS -3.5
CHIEFS | PACKERS +6
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL PICK
BENGALS | JAGUARS -8.5
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 11/29/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts below, or where posted on the socials
| | @darthvaber99
ChabDog’s Pre-visioned history of pigskni, Week 13 —
– The Chargers and the Rams win on the same day. You thought a lot of statues fell during the Summer of Love,
but nothing will fall harder and faster than Joe Flack Jacket Flacco when Aaron Donald decides he wants a Happy Meal.
And the Chargers will take out last week’s psychological beating by pulverizing the pathetic P-men.
— The Lions in the Big Easy is definitely the psycho game of the day. God knows there are almost no limits to what the
Saints could do, at home against an opposing QB who lately has had that deer in headlights look. But I always over-estimate
the Saints,and refuse to go to the island for them in this situation. The Lions figure out how to cut the Saints’ defense down
to size and that is end of story.
— Falcons finally find a team they can handle on the road
— Steelers will win, but by 5.5. Are you kidding? They will win by 5.
— Titans can man up at home, like they often do, and will force feed
a loss to the somewhat laissez-faire Colts
— Wonder what the Commies did with their 2 weeks off. Not enough to stay within 9 of the Dolphins, who
are pissed off they could not be at home.
— Texans/Broncos will be the best game of the day, bar none. In the end, CJ vs. Russell goes like
Mondale vs. Reagan.
— Buccs finally put a good game together, putting them at or near the top of their insignificant division.
— Niners are just playing better than the Eagles. Enough is enough, the Eagles look relieved as they
leave the field with a 10 point loss.
— The Packers didn’t lack for much last week, and lately Love has looked strangely comfortable in the pocket.
Like he expects something good to happen. The Chiefs pulled away from the Raiders last week (if you
want to call it that), but they still don’t look right, or dominant in any sense of the word. Chiefs will probably escape
with a win, but it’s not very impressive.
— OMG, why wasn’t an;ything with the Bungles flexed out on MNF? Speaking of flex, Trevor is tremendous.
1. TNF- SEAHAWKS @ COWBOYS –Cowboys will win by over a touchdown. Might be the easiest game of the day. COWBOYS BY 8
(Thu Pick due Thu by Noon)
SUN DEC 3:
2. 10AM- BRONCOS @ TEXANS –The Texans still don’t have a real kicker, and the kicker is that the Broncos are just playing better. Going with the team with the better kicker. Going Broncos by 2.
3. 10AM- COLTS @ TITANS — 2 in a row for the suddenly competent Titans? Colts don’t typically do much away from wherever they cal home, but in this situation, they should win by 1. COLTS BY 1.
4. 10AM- CARDINALS @ STEELERS — Steelers roar back against a tougher than expected bunch of Cardinals, and win by 5. STEELERS BY A HANDFUL.
5. 1:25PM- 49ERS @ EAGLES — Really interesting game. The Niners are playing better right now, and will beat up the Eagles by 4. NINERS BY 4.
6. 1:25PM- BROWNS @ RAMS — Ramming speed is all the rage, and Stafford and Co. should expunge the Brown stains by 3.5… or more. RAMS WIN BY 8.
7. SNF- CHIEFS @ PACKERS
MON DEC 4: This will probably be closer than most people think. The Chiefs just don’t scare me that much anymore. CHIEFS BY 4.
8. MNF- BENGALS @ JAGUARS — This is capcake game of the No. 2. The Bengals have dentures, not teeth, with no Burrow. JAGS WILL WIN BY 11.
Kevy’s Vikey’s spent bit too much time hob nobbing with the Dobbs lobs, and in a game too messy for slobs, Da Bears are victorious. Gotta actually give both QB’s lots of credit for not quitting on themselves, when either one easily could’ve.
Chicago remains one of those bad team, that can still thrive in the prime time…
in the NFL you just never know.
Hello everyone and welcome to another blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey-sense that may or may not be turned on based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9 Week 11: 4
Abe’s “Tanks-giving” Picks 🦃
Packers +7.5 | Cowboys -11 | 49ers -6.5 | Dolphins -10
(BTW, I can neither confirm nor deny I’m hammered in Mexico RN)
by @BetMGM – 11/21/23 #NFL https://t.co/A3R6KlodtU pic.twitter.com/lqrQHZKsUI
— Abe (@DarthVaber99) November 22, 2023
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 11/21/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on Week 12 below, or where posted on social media
| | @darthvaber99
that sacred intense grudge match known as The Game takes place. It’s always a special pleasure to watch these two almost mythical Big Ten programs collidge like a couple of very angry Rams…. this time in The Big House. I like Ohio St.’s chances, but how can you go against Michigan, in the Big House, and all those intangibles. Michigan 24 – Ohio St. 20… Woah Nellie.
It’s time to take a side and get off the fence, on this week’s “Treading in the Dead Sea of spread betting” Week 12 CDST Show. Some compelling NFL matchups including the Jags getting welcomed by The Texans, the Steelers sending out feelers in the Queen City, Mcvay on a trip through the desert with his resurgent Rams, the bi-annual bloodsport that is New Orleans vs. Atlanta, and the hardscrabble Browns against the in-the-money man-phillies of Payton. This is, surprisingly enough, looking like a week flush with a plethora of fantastic finishes. ChabDog, Well-read, one hot hot hot Abe, the speaking of hot hot hot Dorothy Dawn, and Aaron the Duke of Yorke do their best to navigate.
Football We’re Thankful For On Thanksgiving, 2023:
–The Niners defense was a thing of beauty tonight; by the start of the second half
it was squeezing the Seahawk offense like a python. Hospital Ward was operating very closely on a helpless Metcalf, and d-line enveloped Geno like an advancing shadow,
As for the offense, Brock Purdy’s closing TD was epic, and the Mccaffrey/Samuel 1-2 punch was rock’m sock’m.
–Love looked lovely, while the Lions hardly looked concerned about the rude wake-up call they got just last week.
Campbell was right; it was/is his responsibility to eliminate the apathy that comes with success.
–Cowboys’ Bland equity is certainly livin large these days, as
the Commanders llimp into town and don’t have command of anything.
1.– PACKERS @ LIONS: Feed the Packers to the Lions. Lions win.
2- 1:30 PM COMMANDERS @ COWBOYS: Thank you for the lay up. Cowboys win.
3-5:20 PM 49ERS @ SEAHAWKS — If Geno thought last week was rough… Niners win.
4-NOON (Amazon) DOLPHINS @ JETS– The Jets have forgotten how to win. Dolphins win.
5- 10 AM SAINTS @ FALCONS — I routinely get both these teams wrong, so at least that can’t happen this week. Even a blind Saint sometimes finds a nut on the road. Saints win.
6-10 AM PANTHERS @ TITANS — This one game that Flex Levis can definitely win… I think… Going Ti-tans.
7-1:05 PM BROWNS @ BRONCOS (Peter’s Pick-TY) — Terrific pick. More blood, guts and gore for the Browns, … all they need is Frank Gore. But they don’t have him and they don’t have the guy that Sierra is so high on. Broncos all the way baby!!!
8-1:25 PM BILLS @ EAGLES –Bills beat the crap outta the Jets and the Jets beat the Eagles, … so the Bills will beat the Eagles… right? No freaking way. Eagles quash the Bills and Josh.
9-SNF: RAVENS @ CHARGERS –Why the @#$#@$ would I give the Chargers credit for anything right now? A team that can’t tackle has no chance against the brazen Ravens. Ravens win and give yet another testimonial to the power of the AFC North. This game screams Ravens!!!
MONDAY NOV 27:
10-MNF: BEARS @ VIKINGS — Vikings have every reason to want to win this more. But something tells me the Bears will give them a scare. But it’s not enough. Vikings win.
I feel like one of those soldiers playing Russian Roulette in “Deerhunter” trying to pick my winner in this week’s Survivor Pool
What shark infested waters… whether to go with Josh Dobbs on the job in Minny, against the very pissed off Bears or the rarely right Tt-tans at home against the Panthers. Or maybe the Broncos at home against the Browns, or Colts at home against TB. And what about the Lambs trying to find their way in the desert. Any other choices are pretty much out of question, pure suicide or taken off my plate.
Aw shucks, the former Big Red had no business involved in a serious scrum
with the very big red Ws. Badgers break through in OT, while Chubba and Co.
are .500 chasers.
This season could have been worse for Northwestern; they’re going bowling,
Sparty spanks the looser Hoosiers with a swift kick in the ass from its big baller, Mr. Maliq.while, as usual, Perdue can’t even find shoes the right size.
Was this a game between U of I and IU, or vice versa.
Whatever it was, it had Iowa written all over it.
Was it the new offensive coordinator, or just maybe the new case of Air Allen, not Air Allar, that
put Rutgers back in the same old Rut.
So Michigan’s perfect year stays in tact. But let’s be clear here…
this was absolutely no referendum on their emergence as a serious threat for the National Championship.
A much bigger test will come next week. What I saw today, impressed me in terms of their brute power in the area
of running it down your throat. But the passing game has been laregly non-existent … perhaps a bit by design,
but McCarthy hasn’t been impressing much lately. And the defense in general wasn’t exactly suffocating.
This game gives Ohio State significant hope, even in the Big House.
The OSU warms up for The Game, when McCord cuts the cord pretty quickly on the Gophers’ umbillical. .
Hello everyone and welcome to another blog of me making scrumdidilyumptious NFL picks based on very flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and a spidey-sense that may or may not be turned on based on the amount and quality of tacos I ate today since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10 Week 10: 9
BENGALS | RAVENS -3.5: Unfortunately, I’m posting this past Thursday’s game because I was having login issues here at Chabdog Sports, however, my pick did make its way to our amazing producer before kick-off who also picked the RAVENS.
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 11/15/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on Week 11 below, or where posted
| | @darthvaber99
Yes, it’s tough work picking against the spread, and the season’s getting a little long in the tooth, with those intense divisional matchups coming front and center. Steelers vs. Browns, Seahawks vs. Rams, Titans vs. Jags, Jets vs. Bills, G-men vs. Commies, Bears vs. Lions, are a serious seven that come to mind. One thing I do know …. the Streets of San Francisco are now clean, just like the royal penis, and Fall freshening up is definitely in order. And after pre-visioning the course of events on sacred Sunday, we’ll turn to Monday night, when tush push meets walk this way Pat …. and the question remains, who will get pushed ot the sidewalk.
On tonight’s MNF, lust for not losing leads Buffalo to futz with Lutz using too many men.
The result is a lethal Mulligan from five yards closer, and Denver wins a game it truly deserved to win.
That guy out there leading the Broncos reminded me of the resourceful Russell who engineered, through brute willpower,
so many memorable comebacks. Tonight, Denver controlled the pace of the game and created more scoring opportunities for itself,
than did the more explosive, but chronically unreliable Bills. I continue to see a lot of problems simmering below the surface for the Bills,
who seemed to think they had to win, under the circumstances. But the Bills have become incredibly predictable and boring.
Josh Allen just isn’t the Imperial improv. he used to be, and the rest of the lineup is, somewhat underwhelming.
Denver’s on the rise. Buffalo is imploding.
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and very mistaken logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7 Week 9: 10
Also, need to honorably mention that fading me statistically (51.75%) gives you a better chance of making any money from my NFL picks, hence, Abe’s Shitty NFL Picks. So let’s try this again with the goal of trying to pick more right games than wrong ones in Week 10!
PANTHERS | BEARS -3.5: I lost this game by .5 point as the final score was 13-16 Bears. I truly am a POS.
— Abe (@DarthVaber99) November 9, 2023
COLTS -1.5 | PATRIOTS: Two very terrible teams square off against each other with the Colts coming into this one with a better record, a better offense, and in Frankfurt. So no team here truly has the home-field advantage as most Europeans are simply there to see an NFL game. The only other advantage the Colts have here is a little confidence after beating the Panthers in Week 9 and the ability to score 25+ points against the SAINTS and the BROWNS even though they lost the games. However, the PATRIOTS are neither the SAINTS nor the BROWNS, and why the COLTS are slightly favored in this one (and my pick).
49ERS | JAGUARS +3: The 49ERS look great offensively with their star QB, RB, and WR showing better offensive numbies than the JAGS, however, the 49ERS are coming into this one with a 3-game losing streak against teams with a worse record than the JAGS. On the flip side, I can’t even recall when the JAGS even lost a game as they’re currently 6-2 and playing at home in this one. Lastly, the JAGS have beaten their last 5 opponents by more than 3 points and they’re coming off a BYE week. Lock it in…JAGS.
SAINTS -2.5 | VIKINGS: The VIKINGS are in a funky place as both Justin Jefferson (WR) and Kirk Cousins (QB) are on the IR. However, I like Joshua Dobbs AKA “Passtronaut”, and do hope he can put his rocket scientist mind to good use for the VIKINGS (rooting for the nerd). However, we still have a lot of unknowns here and they’re coming against Derek Carr and the SAINTS with more offensive weapons and more playing time. Simply taking experience over uncertainty & beyond in this one.
TITANS | BUCS -1.5: Here we have another two teams with the same W-L record battling it out this week with the BUCS coming into this one as the hometown favorites. Probably even more so now that Ryan Tannehill has been replaced with Will Levis for the remainder of the season who will be making his third start for the team with a 1-1 record. Hard to see a rookie QB beating out a more experienced one in Tampa Bay in this one, but glad the spread is tiny.
BROWNS | RAVENS -6: The RAVENS have easily won their last 4 games by more than 6 points, and it shouldn’t be a problem for them against a BROWNS team that has a rusty Deshaun Watson (QB) who still doesn’t feel 100% with his rotator cuff strain. Little things that can make a big difference here against a RAVENS team that has been dominating their last 4 games and at home in this one.
TEXANS +6.5 | BENGALS: The TEXANS have done great in trying to keep games close or even winning them this season. C.J. Stroud (QB) has also been impressive going for 2270 yards for 14TD with only 1 interception. Again, very impressive with better numbies than Joe Burrow. The other thing that is in favor of the TEXANS is that the BENGALS star WR, Ja’Marr Chase, is still listed as questionable with back soreness. Things that could affect the BENGALS offensive game even if he does play. Hard to see the BENGALS run away with this one. Lock in on the TEXANS with this fat spread.
PACKERS | STEELERS -3: The PACKERS and the STEELERS have not been amazing so far, but the STEELERS have been better in beating the Titans, the Rams, and the Ravens by more than 3 points in the last month. Additionally, the STEELERS have had a few extra rest days than the PACKERS with a home-field advantage that is looking to beat the PACKERS by more than 3 points in this one.
FALCONS -1.5 | CARDINALS: QB Kyler Murray is returning after being out for 11 months for a torn ACL to his right knee. Combine a rusty QB with RB James Conner also coming off the IR for things to swing in favor of the FALCONS with a low spread working for them in this one.
LIONS -2.5 | CHARGERS: The LIONS are coming off a bye week with a 6-2 record and a great offense. The CHARGERS are coming off a two-game winning streak, but only putting it together to beat the Jets and the Bears. Two teams that are not as strong as the LIONS. Well-rested LIONS to challenge the Chargers at home.
GIANTS | COWBOYS -16.5: You know the GIANTS are bad when taking the COWBOYS at -16.5 points. However, when you factor in that the GIANTS have no QB, and the best they can do is Tommy DeVito in Dallas, ooooooooooooooooooooooooooffffff, this team is cooooooooked!!!
COMMANDERS +6.5 | SEAHAWKS: The SEAHAWKS are favored in this game by 6.5 points, yet the SEAHAWKS have not been able to beat a team by that much since playing the Cardinals in Week 7 and the COMMANDERS are no Cardinals. Lastly, the SEAHAWKS just lost badly to the Ravens and could not even score more than 3 points in Week 9. So technically, the SEAHWAKS couldn’t even score enough points in their last game to even make the spread in this one..let alone beat a team by this many points. Lock it in, COMMANDERS +6.5.
JETS | RAIDERS +1.5: The JETS got crucified last week with QB Zach Wilson getting sacked over and over again by the Chargers while the RAIDERS demolished the GIANTS 30-6. Yet, the RAIDERS are not favored in this one and at home. Yes, we can look at what the Raiders have done so far and say they havn’t been great, but they also changed coach and things appear to have gotten better for them since then. So lets let Antonio Pierce cook and see what he has in store for the Jets in this one considering he’s 1-0 as the new Raiders coach.
BRONCOS +7.5 | BILLS: The BILLS are in a funky spot this season but mostly a dissapointment in the last 5 games. Especially since they’ve not been able to beat any team by 7.5 since Week 4. Including the dumpster fire Giants in Week 6. The BRONCOS have also been garbage, but they’ve also managed to beat the KC Chiefs in Week 9 and the Packers in Week 8. So we got the BRONCOS in an upswing and the BILLS in a downswing with the Broncos coming off a BYE Week. All things that are screaming that the BRONCOS are not going to get beaten by 7.5 points in this one.
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 11/08/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on Week 10 below, or where posted
| | @darthvaber99
ChabDog’s last stand heading into Week 10’s weekend games:
Colts-Pats: Colts should be able to withstand the little Mac attack and cover the 1.5, whereever it is being played.
Niners-Jags: Those guys are Jags, and they are pretty good. Yeah, I’ll take them to play it closer to the vest against SF than 3, and even to win the game. Why the hell not?
Saints – Vikes: Probably taking my life in my hands going with the Saints on the road, but whatever. Don’t expect another Dobbsian miracle this week. Taking the Saints giving 2.5 on the road.
Titans-Bucs: Titans getting very little respect against a Bucs team that is going absolutely nowhere fast. Take the Titans and the gift 1.5.
Browns-Ravens: Ravens by 2 field goals and then some. I’ve gotten burned two weeks in a row by the Ravens, and “Thank you sir, may I have another?!” Going with the Browns to keep it closer than that.
Packers-Steelers: As ChabDognosticated on my Steelers fan page, the Steelers will have no problem ransacking the Pack… for sure at the A-sure. Steelers cover the little 3 point shot.
Falcons-Cards: Falcons giving only 1.5 on the road against the Cards with nothing in the hole… well practically nothing. I’ll take the Falcons.
Lions-Chargers: Chargers are only getting 2.5 against the rested Lions. Lions are not the Jets and are certainly not LAC’s compliant pets. Going with Detroit.
G-men – Boys: 17 points is a king’s plunder full of lumber…. but 16.5… that seems doable, particularly given what happened last week. Dallas does the Giants in a big, bad way.
Commies- Seattle — nearly a TD is too much respect for a Seattle team that has lately struggled to score. Going with Washington the road, which lately has paid off apparently.
Jets- Raiders — Raider think they can still turn their season around, and should be able to surprise the world as home dogs against the Jets and their mutt of a QB. Go with the Raiders getting 1.5
Broncos-Bills — The overblown Bills have no business being a 7.5 home fav against a Bronco team that is starting to look at least mediocre. Denverackdoors in Western New York.
Texicans-Bengals — I was all in for an Alamo-style demolition of the Texicans in Cincy; however, there gonna apparently be no Chase to chase down those passes from Joe Cool. Under the circumstances, I still see the Bengals winning, but it seems more prudent to see this as being a within one TD game. Taking Texans to beat the 6.5 spread.
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and mistaken logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4 Week 8: 7
Also, need to honorably mention that fading me statistically (53.33%) gives you a way better chance of making any money from my NFL picks, hence, Abe’s Shitty NFL Picks. So let’s try this again with the goal of trying to pick more right games than wrong ones in Week 9!
STEELERS -2.5
DOLPHINS +2.5
COMMANDERS +3.5
RAVENS -5.5
CARDINALS +8
BUCS +2.5
PACKERS -3
FALCONS -5.5
SAINTS -7.5
COLTS -2.5
RAIDERS -2.5
EAGLES -3
BENGALS -2.5
CHARGERS -3
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 11/01/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on Week 9 below, or wherever you find this posted on social media
| | @darthvaber99
Dolphins-Chiefs — I wouldn’t give the Chiefs much more than 3, that’s for sure. Chiefs are coming off a bad loss, and that might be the only reason I’m going with the Chiefs. Chiefs cover the 2.5… probably not by much.
Commies-Patriots — The thought of the Patriots giving anybody 3.5 is completely preposterous… except when you remember they are coming off the bye week, and Belichick had extra time to prepare. Gonna go Patriots against my better judgment.
Seahawks-Ravens — Ravens giving away too many points is usually a recipe for disaster. Nearly 6 points to a pretty good Seahawks team seems excessive. If they didn’t cover 7 against the Cardinal Sins, they ain’t covering 5.5 at home against Seattle. Going Seahawks… it may be time for one of those stink bombs by everybody’s darling Lamar.
Cards- Browns — yeah… this is really a bit difficult… the Browns are not known for being generous givers and getting away with it. But this team from Airzona is mostly a headless pony… or at least one driven by a juckey just off sabbatical. Let’s go with the Browns giving an absurd 9.
Bucs- Texans — Since when do the Texans get the respect of 2.5 points at home. Since they play the boring and functionally limited Succaneers. Taking the Texans.
Rams – Packers — Slackers favored by 3. Hah! That’s comedic and ridiculous. The Rams all the way baby!!!! Easiest game of the day.
Vikings-Falcons — A birdie of prey told me Taylor Meineke was going to be caring for the Falcon favs on Sunday. Yes, let’s go ahead with finding the Falcons worthy of covering five point five against a Viking team shellshocked and lost after losing Captain Kirk.
Bears-Saints — I took the Saints in my suicide pool, but having them give more than a TD is pretty extreme. For my own psychological well-being, I have to stay all in with the Saints. Saints cover.
Colts-Panthers — Colts cover the 2.5. Yeah, they can do this.
G-men-Raiders — So they have no Gano, no Tyrod the bod, no Danny Devito at QB, but they do have Danny Jones. Oh boy, and the Raiders have no Josh, no Jimmy G and are giving 2.5. Raiders probably survive on a Karlson field goal. Can’t go Giants after that patethic lay down last week in the last minute. Raiders are a dumpster fire extraordinaire, but the Giants are massive Cleveland Steamer left at Eric Adams’ doorstep. RAYDES COVER.
Boys in the ‘hood to play Philly. Boys getting 3. This should be real close. I took Philly to win in the Sports Rock pool, and I’m sticking with them here. All comes to down to Jalen vs. Dak, and I trust Jalen. Go with the Eggles giving a little field goal.
Bills -Bengals — Bengals giving 2.5… hey why not 3… why not 7… they are the better team. Of that I am sure. And they will take apart the pretender Bills, just like they di last year. 1000% behind the Bengals covering this… with ease.
Chargers-Jets — Jets still gettng snubbed, tagged as 3 point dogs at home against the still respected Chargers. Yes, they have the offensive weapons that the Jets lack. But the Jets have the defense, and that defense usually keeps them in the game. Jets win this in the Zach shack, and blow the lid off of this spread.
(subject to modification on the show) LOL
Lots of hometown hereos in today’s spiritually uplifting win for the still standing Steelers.
There were the running backs Warren and Harris, who together easily outgained the much balllyhooed Henry. There was Broad-erick Jones, the rookie who stepped in quite capably at right tackle.
There was of course Pickett, who played one of the most clutch games of his career, bouncing back from last week’s
injury. There was D. Johnson, who game up huge on the game winning drive, and there was Pal Joey Jr., who made
Hopkins his closest best friend. And now we have the schedule’s best friend, going into a 10 day break from action with
a valuable victory under our belts.
Goodbye to Bob Knight, whose accomplishments were well-summarized by commentator Jay Bilas…
“Knight was the first Division I men’s basketball coach to win 900 games. He was the most prolific winner in Big Ten history, won three NCAA titles at Indiana, went to five Final Fours and led the United States to the 1984 Olympic gold medal. He innovated the motion offense and influenced countless coaches with his teaching of the game. One cannot think of Indiana basketball without thinking of Bob Knight.”
He was also the witty antagonist of the press and those pressuring him: “When my time on earth is gone, and my activities here are passed, I want them to bury me upside down, and my critics can kiss my ass,”
Was backed into a bit of a corner tonight, trying to come up with this week’s suicide pool selection. Took a flier on Carr and the Saints..
Seemed very difficult to find a heavy favorite at home this week. Cleveland also looked good, at home against Arizona. But what about their QB… not enough offense for my liking, and the Cardinals are scrappy. Pittsbugh at home against TN? Definitely, not sure about that if Pickett isn’t involved, … and even then.
Cincy over Buffalo? Atlanta over Counsins-less Minny? Atlanta?
Hello, Chabdog racing fans, and welcome to XFINITY 500, the last race of the Round of 8 in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs! Today, we find ourselves in a sold-out race at Martinsville Speedway in Ridgeway, Virginia. Below is the current layout of this short track and adjacent facilities. The most unique aspect of this track is that it’s shaped like a paper clip with straightaways made of asphalts and turns made from concrete.
Source: MVS-22-338694 Facility Map Update_v2 (martinsvillespeedway.com)
Qualifying is done for this race, and I’ve posted the Top 10 drivers as shown below:
Source: Martinsville Speedway 2 Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
Below are our current playoff standings (Round of 8). Please note that the Round of 8 is made up of 3 races: Las Vegas Motor Speedway (10/15), Homestead-Miami Speedway (10/22), and Martinsville Speedway (10/29). Today, we expect all the playoff drivers to push hard to either win this race or gain as many points as possible by staying at the very front of the pack with the exception of Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell who’ve already clinched a spot for the Championship 4 race on November 5th. Finally, a win here by any of the six remaining drivers will automatically clinch them a spot in the Championship 4 race at Phoenix Raceway next week as well.
Source: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs | Official Site Of NASCAR
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
For those who are unavailable to make a pick, or do not make a pick prior to the start of the race, then that host is given the “chalk pick”. The “chalk pick” is the poll position driver for that week’s race. This week’s “chalk pick” is Martin Truex Jr.
Last week’s race results:
Source: Homestead-Miami Speedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
My pick: William Byron
Lastly, sound off who you think our podium winner is for today’s race in the comments below!
With that, let’s get ready to NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASCAR!
| | @darthvaber99
Who’s going to rule in a world engulfed by chaos inviting spreads so very cruel. Just look at Saints-Colts … a clash that promises to be special.
And maybe the Raydes can pull a rabbit outta a hat and make it a one score game in Motown.
Then there’s mysterious Miami and a rather inflated passel of points it’s giving to last week’s giant killers, the Pats.
All I know is the week got off to an ominous start, what with the garbage comeback by the Bucs on TNC. Blowing that lead was Rich Stadium Rich, Bills…. very Rich…
We don’t need a Speaker, but we need more than a few squeakers to go in the right direction.
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and mistaken logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11 Week 7: 4
Also, need to honorably mention that fading me statistically (53.33%) gives you a way better chance of making any money from my NFL picks, hence, Abe’s Shitty NFL Picks. So let’s try this again with the goal of trying to pick more right games than wrong ones in Week 8!
BILLS -8.5: Baker Mayfield (QB) is currently listed as questionable for this matchup against the Bills so there’s a good chance the Bucs hurt offense will not be able to catch up to the Bills allowing them to cover the 8.5 point spread.
PATRIOTS +9.5: The Dolphins have both WR Tyreek Hill (hip injury) and RB Raheem Mostert (ankle injury) listed as questionable which would be a huge blow to their offense if they do not play against a Patriots team who just beat the Buffalo Bills in Week 7. Both Mostert and Hill have put in huge offensive numbies so far this season, and without them, it will be difficult to beat the Patriots by more than 9.5 points.
JETS -3: The Giants may have recently beaten the Commanders in Week 7, however, they’ve been gawd awful before then. Additionally, the Giants RB Saquon Barkley is currently listed as questionable (elbow), which only further helps the Jets cover the spread in this one. Ultimately, the Jets have beaten the Eagles (Week 7) and the Broncos (Week 6) by more than 3 points so I do not see how any of this would suggest the Jets would not be able to cover the spread in this one.
JAGUARS -2.5: Last week I did not pick the Jaguars simply because I did not think Trevor Lawerence (QB) would be plowing through the Saints wearing a knee brace as he was checked off as questionable. Again, Lawerence is listed as questionable for this game, but won’t be surprised to see him out on the field again wearing his knee brace and plowing through the Steelers to cover the spread in Pittsburgh.
FALCONS -3: I didn’t get a lot of games right last week, but I did get the Falcons right considering they had better offensive and defensive numbers to beat the Bucs. The same applies here, as the Falcons find themselves in a similar situation over the Titans (except that the Bucs are a slightly better team) and will use the same winning formula I used last week to make this pick.
TEXANS -3: The 0-6 Panthers are horrendous and simply can’t compute a scenario where they’re going to be anywhere near the 3-point spread against the Texans in this one. Especially against a team that has already beaten the Saints, the Steelers & the Jaguars.
RAMS +6.5: The Rams have all the offensive numbies in their favor to not only cover the spread but to outright beat the Cowboys at AT&T. However, both teams have been hit or miss this season, and with that kind of record, it’s hard to trust any of these teams with that kind of spread. Going to side with Rams here to keep this game truer to their actual numbies.
VIKINGS -1: WTF happened to the Packers this season? Yes, we all knew Jordan Love wasn’t going to have a perfect season, but to lose to both the Raiders (Week 6) and the Broncos (Week 7) back to back is simply screaming your team is a raging…flaming…dumpster fire. Yes, the Vikings have not been stellar this season either, but they did beat the 49ers last week, and if they can do that, what makes anyone think they cannot beat the Packers by 1 point in this Pick’em game?
SAINTS +1: The Saints and the Colts are simply two garbage teams battling it out to be crowned king of the dump on Sunday. These two teams have an identical track record and are both coming off a losing streak. The Saints are coming into this game with 3 additional rest days and a better defense. The only issue I have with the Saints is that Derek Carr has had some issues connecting with his offensive players, although not entirely his fault. Again, not too much separating these teams here, but handing the slight advantage to the Saints in this Pick’em game.
EAGLES -6.5: The Eagles have clearly demonstrated that they can get the ball down the field by killing the Dolphins in Week 7 using their immaculate tush push strategy to get the extra yards they need for a first down and killing them by way more than the spread we have in this match up. Easy breezy money.
SEAHAWKS -3.5: PJ Walker will start for the Browns against the Seahawks, which could favor the Hawks in this game at home. The only thing going for the Browns in this one is their defense, however, the Colts proved in Week 7 that they could get 38 points out of them and I assume the Hawks will be watching some film on that this week.
RAVENS -8.5: The Cardinals have lost their four last games by 10+ points while beating the Lions by 30+ points in Week 7. Signs that the Ravens shouldn’t have a problem covering the spread.
CHIEFS -7: The Broncos once again find themselves playing the Chiefs who lost to them 19-8. I’m sure they’ll work on fixing those mistakes this week, however, execution is where the money is at and I don’t think they have what it takes to cover the spread.
BENGALS -5.5: Brock Purdy is questionable, is in concussion protocol, and will probably not play in this one. That being said, we can expect the 49ers to not play as well as they would normally do against this Bengals team. Also, keep in mind that the 49ers are on a losing streak while the Bengals are on a winning one.
BEARS +8.5: The West Coast Bears (Chargers) are in no position to beat anyone by 8.5 points, especially after giving up more than 432 yards this season and being an utter disappointment to Chargers Superfan Merianne Do who has gone 0-2 since going viral.
LIONS -8.5: Both the Raiders and the Lions lost by great margins in Week 7, however, the Raiders have been consistently not so good whereas the Lions have been consistently pretty dominant prior to last week’s game. Jimmy Garoppolo (QB) is currently listed as questionable for this game for his back, but will most likely return in this matchup per the latest reports. However, Jimmy G has already thrown 8 interceptions this season which is concerning since he hasn’t played 8 games which could help the Lions cover the spread if he throws another interception in this one. Leaning on the Raiders dropping the ball in Detroit in true Raiders fashion.
*All odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 10/25/2023
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on Week 8 below, or wherever you find this posted on social media
| | @darthvaber99
–Phls fail in close-out game No. 1, when they plead Nola contendere.On the “It’s deja vu all over again: CDST Week 7 Preview Show”:
–the lowdown on the Michigan sign stealing scandal
–The high prevelance of low T … don’t drink the water
–at min. 47, Abe waxes poetic about all those distractions
–it might still not be too late to change my vote to the Vkings on MNF….the absence of Samuel could be fatal to cover prospects
–a client call for Chabner Law hits the answering machine… a Rockford Files type opening is ready to go….. “Well-read this is the Blue Oyster Bar… you left your keys here”
–Nice job Abe, sniffing out the Falcons’ simple advantage over the Bucs. How about that Riddler?
–A Steel City celebration at Sharkey’s in Hermosa Beach. Should have been the premonition I needed to stay loyal in my prediction. My bad.
–Tyrod at the Improv… how unfortunate for the Commanders
–Well-read confuses his Indiana Jonathans
–Browns and Colts, was as I predicted, a total dawg fight; no wonder the Browns prevailed.
–Nice job by Aaron, whose stomach appropriately turned when faced with the prospect of going with the Raiders as a road favorite.
–I guess Tyson “I’m no chicken” Bagent was too much for Brian “Steny” Hoyer to deal with.
–Why couldn’t I have picked to profile some of the games I actually got right? LOL
–Well, it looks like the bad boyfriend Lions treated all of us badly today… after getting picked apart by the Ravens
–a discussion of current events that needed to be had
Hello, Chabdog racing fans, and welcome to Homestead Miami Speedway and the second of three races for the Round of 8 in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs! Also, need to mention that we will be racing on the 1.5-mile oval vs the inside road course configuration. Lastly, need to mention that this course has an amazing virtual tour that allows you to explore this track in greater detail @ Homestead-Miami Speedway (panowalks.com)
Source: Homestead-Miami Speedway (panowalks.com)
Source: Miami Homestead Track Layout – Bing images
Qualifying is done for this race, and I’ve posted the Top 10 drivers as shown below:
Source: Homestead-Miami Speedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
Below are our current playoff standings (Round of 8). Please note that the Round of 8 is made up of 3 races: Las Vegas Motor Speedway (10/15), Homestead-Miami Speedway (10/22), and Martinsville Speedway (10/29). Today, we expect all the playoff drivers to push hard to either win this race or gain as many points as possible by staying at the very front of the pack with the exception of Kyle Larson who has already clinched a spot for the Championship 4 race. Finally, a win here or in Martinsville next week will automatically clinch that driver for the Championship 4 race at Phoenix Raceway.
Source: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs | Official Site Of NASCAR
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
For those who are unavailable to make a pick, or do not make a pick prior to the start of the race, then that person is given the “chalk pick”. The “chalk pick” is the poll position driver for that week’s race. This week’s “chalk pick” is Martin Truex Jr.
Last week’s race results:
Source: Las Vegas Motor Speedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
My pick: Martin Truex Jr.
Lastly, sound off who you think our podium winner is for today’s race in the comments below!
With that, let’s get ready to NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASCAR!
| | @darthvaber99
Tune in to tomorrow’s “Is it like deja vu all over again in Week 7: CDST NFL Preview Show” …. with this slew of hotly contested games, Abe will be hard pressed to repeat last week’s prodigious score of 11 right against the spread. But maybe with some special sorecery and the right hat, he can do it. ChabDog thinks he’s just stuck in neutral (well actually in the basement) with another 7 right staring him in the face…but hey that result might not be so bad. Among others, we’ll be deliberating the relative merits of Steelers vs. Rams, Falcons vs. Bucs, Dolphins vs. Eagles, Lions vs. Ravens, Browns vs. Colts and Commies vs. Giants, Raiders vs. Bears and Packers vs. Broncos…. all with spreads less than 4. Your guess is as good as mine, but we like to hear ourselves talk… so here goes.
And some mention will be made of MLB … though didn’t we see this all last year. Houston and Philadelphia returning home with 3-2 leads and a World Series rematch looming. Oh joy!
— The long hot deep-in-the heart of Texas Summer swoon came a bit late in the year, but it has come nonethless.
Texas hands Houston control of the series, in what appears will not be a series won exclusively by the visitors.
The plane, Boss!
— Phillies throw their best 1-2 punch, and then some, at the plucky D-backs, and look who’s coming back. Kimbrel goes from rally killer to rally fulfiller; conjures up some very scary, Don Stanhouse type full-pack images from the Bosox days.
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and mistaken logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6 Week 6: 11
Also, need to honorably mention that fading me statistically (51.1%) gives you a way better chance of making any money from my NFL picks, hence, Abe’s Shitty NFL Picks. So let’s try this again with the goal of trying to pick more right games than wrong ones in Week 7!
SAINTS -1*: The real issue in this Thursday Night Football Game is Trevor Lawrance (QB) being listed as questionable due to a right knee injury and this is no bueno for the JAGS. Without Trevor, the Saints will be both offensively and defensively a better team in New Orleans with the “who dat” crowd cheering them on.
SAINTS -1: The real issue in this TNF Game is T. Lawerance (QB) being listed as questionable due to a right knee injury & this is no bueno 4 the JAGS. Without Trevor, da Saints will be both offensively & defensively a better team in N.O. with the “who dat” crowd cheering dem on. https://t.co/Bq5HeEXYP2
— Abe (@DarthVaber99) October 19, 2023
LIONS +3*: The Lions have started the season well going 5-1 playing against the 4-2 Ravens. Offensively the Lions simply have a better stack of weapons coming into this away game. Additionally, the Lions have only allowed 64.7 rushing yards this season which will put considerable pressure on Lamar Jackson (QB) who also leads the Ravens in rushing yards to possibly throw more balls and risk an interception. The Lions have won their last four games, are hot, and hope they use this winning momentum to cover the spread or outright beat the Ravens.
RAIDERS -3*: What an absolute dumpster fire of a game is scheduled with this one as both J. Garoppolo (QB) and J. Field (QB) are out with both teams sealing their fate with backup QBs. I have no idea what shitstorm awaits us, but it will be very entertaining watching this dumpster fire of a game. Either way, I expect J. Jacobs (RB) from the Raiders to get the ball a lot in this one against a Chicago Bears team that has already lost their lead rusher (K. Herbert) to the IR. I expect the dumpster fire Raiders to crucify the dumpster fire Bears in this game.
COLTS +2.5*: As of right now, D. Watson is still questionable for this matchup and will roll the dice that he won’t play in this game, or play like a QB who’s missed a lot of practice. Either way, this should give the home-field advantage Colts another slight advantage in this game. Problems for the Colts include a strong Browns defense that might keep this game close, but offset by a weaker Browns offense. Colts to keep this game interesting at home.
BILLS -8.5*: The 4-2 Bills are simply going to kill the Patriots as the team has only been able to pull off one win against a Zach Wilson’s Jets team. Although the Patriots were able to keep the game close against the garbage Raiders in Week 6, let’s all keep in mind that the Buffalo Bills are not the Raiders. Lastly, let’s not all forget the Patriots lost to the Saints and the Cowboys by more than 30 points and we’re only looking for 8.5 here.
COMMIES (COMMANDERS) -1.5*: The numbies show that offensively (QB, WR, RB) are simply better than the New York Giants. Let’s throw the Giants, QB D. Jones, and RB S. Barkley into the questionable list and we’re simply looking at a catastrophe in New Jersey this week. Fortunately for us, we only need to win by 1.5 points to cash out on this bet.
FALCONS +2.5*: The Falcons may have a slightly worse record than the Bucs, but their stats show that they’ve done more than the Bucs offensively and defensively and it shows as a tight spread (see below). Additionally, the Falcons have no injured players and are playing with a fully healthy team. The only concern I have is D. Riddler (QB) already throwing 6 interceptions and the Bucs capitalizing on it.
Source: Falcons vs. Buccaneers (Oct 22, 2023) Live Score – ESPN
STEELERS +3*: The deciding factor in this game for me is that the Rams star RB K. Williams is out & weakening the offense of the Rams enough for the Steelers to cover the game. However, Mathew Stafford (QB) has other options that he can use including WR P. Nacua to to keep this game in favor of the Rams. However, Stafford has also given up 6 interceptions this season which could benefit the Steelers if he throws another one. Lastly, the Steelers beat the AFC North Leader (Ravens) last week suggesting that they can keep the Rams in check this week.
CARDINALS +7.5*: The Seahawks are going into this home game with DK Metcalf (WR) possibly sidelined as he is still marked as questionable for this week’s game. Additionally, Metcalf has been a penalty pain in the ass for the Seahawks and could prove once again to drag his team under the penalty bus if he does play. Little things that can slow the Seahawks enough to not cover the spread. On the flip side, the Cardinals have been able to put up similar offensive numbies minus the injuries to keep this game closer than the Seahawks would like.
PACKERS -1*: Looks like we have another pick’em game against two teams that have lost more games than won this season, and boy do we have garbage against garbage here. The only real difference in this game is that both A. Dillion (RB) and A. Jones (RB) for the Packers could be suited up for this one. Unfortunately, we do not really know about A. Jones until 90 minutes before the game. Either way, the well-rested Packers are facing a Broncos team that has given up more than 458 yards this season which could favor them in this one.
CHIEFS -5.5*: The Chargers just played on Monday and will be back at it in less than a week after losing to the Cowboys. This time they’re walking into another brutal game against the Chiefs who’ve had the luxury of 4 additional rest days and a better defense. That being said, the Chargers and Chiefs are evenly matched offensively and the Chargers have been able to keep games close, but again, not much rest coming into this one with any mistake favoring the Chiefs to rack up more than 5.5 points, which is very doable in this one.
Dolphins +2*: Yes, the Eagles are good, and yes, so are the Dolphins. This right here might be the Superbowl game as we get to watch one of the most anticipated games this week with me leaning on the Dolphins due to their powerhouse offense that has kept this game’s spread super tight. The Eagles have a lot of ammunition in this one with the Dolphins giving up way more rushing yards than passing yards which D. Swift (RB) could capitalize on. However, the Dolphins are the clear winners offensively as long as the football’s laces are facing out Finkle.
49ERS -6.5*: The 49ers are really good this season and have dominated every single game this season with the exception of the Cleveland Browns in Week 6. The Vikings on the other hand have great offensive numbies but have proven to lose the majority of their games despite K. Cousins (QB) throwing 14 touchdown passes and going for 1679 yards this season. Something that I feel will continue into this game as I have given up all hope on this team unless they can start proving some form of turnaround which I don’t expect to happen in this one. Either way, the 49ers are looking for a feel-good game after losing to the Browns, and winning here by a touchdown + is a good way to start that 49ers winning momentum once again.
*Odds courtesy of Bet MGM on 10/18/2023
FINAL THOUGHTS
Wow, look at what I did in Week 6 with 11 AST picks and proving that you could have parlayed all of them, retired, and be now living on your private island. Hopefully, I will make another double-digit run in Week 7 keeping in mind I’ve already lost one to the Saint on Thursday night. Looks like this week I have balanced the books by only picking 7 favored teams even though it just worked out to be like that based on my sophisticated formula for picking games. Also, someone needs to ask why Chabdog Sports calls the Commanders “Commies” but I’ll say it’s an improvement over calling them the “Foreskins” which we had in place for the longest time. Lastly, I am simply amazed every week that we’re still in business considering the amount of shenanigans we pull off, and happy to still have a place here to pencil in all my thoughts considering that blogging only started at Chabdog 7 weeks ago!
Let me know in the comments your thoughts on Week 7 below, or wherever you find this posted on my socials @
| | @darthvaber99
@DarthVaber99 crushed the competition in Week Six's NFL fuckery while @AaronPYorke got miraculously rescued at sea from the hungry pedos – he goes to the island 3 times for the Jets, Giants & Cowboys, wins all 3https://t.co/Msmlxo3AXQ
— Well Read Producer ChabDog.com (@NewportBest_) October 18, 2023
Hello, Chabdog racing fans, and welcome to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and the first race of the Round of 8 in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs!
Source: Las Vegas Motor Speedway Track Map – Bing images
Qualifying is done for today’s race, and I’ve posted the Top 10 drivers as shown below:
Source: Las Vegas Motor Speedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
Below are our current playoff standings (Round of 8). Please note that the Round of 8 is made up of 3 races: Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Homestead-Miami Speedway, and Martinsville Speedway. Today, we expect all the playoff drivers to push hard to either win this race or gain as many points as possible by staying at the very front of the pack. Finally, a win at any of these 3 races automatically clinches that driver for the Championship 4 race at the Phoenix Raceway.
Source: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs | Official Site Of NASCAR
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
For those who are unavailable to make a pick, or do not make a pick prior to the start of the race, then that person is given the “chalk pick”. The “chalk pick” is the poll position driver for that week’s race. This week’s “chalk pick” is Christopher Bell.
Last week’s race results:
Source: Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
My pick: William Byron
Lastly, sound off who you think our podium winner is for today’s race in the comments below!
With that, let’s get ready to NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASCAR!
| | @darthvaber99
There’s plenty to discuss, including my caper to climb seamlessly over some roadblocks in the pick’m standings, to the fall from grace of Neion Deion, at the hands of those strangely athletic trees, plus the emerging legend of Sam Heartthrob Hartman and of course the games…. including Giants against Buffalo, with no Scotty Norwood to bail them out, the Boyz travelin to LA’s Hood to play the fine non-Arab Chargers, the Saints getting into a bar-room brawl in Houston and the Titans at home in London and facing Action Jackson and his entourage. Plus, which Natty will be served with brunch, the one with, or without, Burrow the Great.
Mirror mirror on my helmet… who’s the biggest Heisman heartthrob of them all…poor Caleb you may no longer have a ticket to the ball… gotta like that there Sam Hartman, even if he doesn’t quite have the stats… he’s like a college version of Burt Reynolds-Longest Yard, with a hint of Clint and facial hair to make Kris Kristofferson stop and stare.
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and drunken logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8 Week 5: 6
Also, need to honorably mention that fading me statistically gives you a way better chance of making any money from my NFL picks, hence, Abe’s Shitty NFL Picks. So let’s try this again with the goal of trying to pick more right games than wrong ones in Week 6!
KC SWIFTS (CHIEFS) -10.5: Made my Thursday Night Football Pick via X.com before the game. See the reply in the tweet below:
https://t.co/OCBzsaq9vi@chabdogsports
— Well Read Producer ChabDog.com (@NewportBest_) October 12, 2023
es here
RAVENS -4: Again we find ourselves in London, England for another great match on the pitch. I need you to know that I am 1-1 in predicting London games with last week’s Jags win over the Bills sucking for a lot of folks mate. However, this week the Jags are no longer in town as we see team Ravens-claw and the Titans-puffs go at it in a good old-fashioned quidditch match instead. Two teams that are kicked in the nutz by jet lag and partying at the pubs all night. Offensively and defensively the Ravewns have the higher ground and why they are favored in this game. However, I am concerned about their loss to the Steelers last week and am willing to call it a fluke considering they easily penetrated through the Browns’ defense the week prior. The Titans, are not the Browns, so I am expecting the Ravens to bounce back and kill the Titans by more than 4 points.
COMMIES (COMMANDERS) +2.5: Going with the underdog Commanders in this game simply because they have a better offense and have played against much better teams than the Falcons. Sure, they lost to the Eagles and the Bills, but keep in mind they sent that more recent Eagles game into OT 34-31. However, they’ve also lost to the Bears (a garbage team) and the Bills by 20 or more points. However, the Falcons are getting their Wins by beating Houston, Greenbay, and the Panthers. Three teams that are not that amazing. So taking all things into consideration, offense, defense, and past games, I expect this game to be close or flat-out beat the Falcons at home.
VIKINGS -2.5: Yes, we all know the Bears actually did something good and beat the Commanders by 20 points. Yes, we also know the Bears are garrrrrrrrrrbaggggggge and have been a complete catastrophe before that. I can also say that the Vikings have not been amazing this year, but do come into this game with better offense and defense. Therefore, I find myself in a similar situation as I did with the Panthers in Week 4 where I also picked the Vikings and won using the exact same philosophy. Why change something that works, I’m all in with the Vikings.
BENGALS -2.5: The Seahawks are coming off a bye-week and are probably feeling pretty energized after winning their last three games. However, Joe Burrow is feeling much better from his injured calf and showed a little dominance against the Cardinals. Offensively, the Bengals have all the right stuff to beat out the Seahawks at home with a mobile Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase connecting being major factors in making this pick.
49ERS -7: The Browns have really been hit-and-miss this season, and are coming off a bye-week. However, let us keep in mind that Deshaun Watson (QB) will not be playing in this game, and this simply sounds like a recipe for disaster for Cleveland. The 49ERS are RED HOT, and this game is simply SCREAMING 49ERS.
TEXANS +1.5: Derek Carr killed the Patriots last week so it may look easy to go with him this week as well. However, we all need to accept here that the Houston Texans are not the Patriots, they’re much better than them. HAHAHAHA…gawd has that team fallen into the abysmial pit since Tom Brady left. So need to factor that Houston is at home and has greater offensive numbies than the Saints. Maybe why this game’s spread is so small and validates my logic here.
JAGUARS -4: The Colts once again find themselves with Gardner Minshew who is seeking revenge on his former team. However, he’s coming up against a team that just beat the Buffalo Bills and who also has better offensive and defensive numbies than the Colts. Uphill battle for the Colts going into this one in Jacksonville.
DOLPHINS -13.5: Incredible to see such a huge spread, but then again it’s the Miami Dolphins against the absolute worst team in the league and in Miami chico. Been a while since Miami could command such a spread. The only thing I hate about this game is that RB De’von Achane is out on the IR till about Week 11. Now, had this been another team, I might have really considered a hard pass on this 13.5-point spread, but c’mon it’s Carolina. A Miami field day with this team is still in the realm of possibilities with the ability for the Panthers to lose by more than 20 points still on the table.
LIONS -3: The 4-1 Detroit Lions have done well this season and come into this Tampa game with WR Mike Evans with a high probability of not playing or being limited in this one for the Bucs. A huge factor to consider in this game. Sorry but the BUC stops here….LIONS.
RAIDERS -3: Wow, do the Patriots suck. Wow, do the Raiders suck. Raiders hopefully get Devante Adams (WR) in this one considering he’s still questionable. Not much to boast here aside from the Raiders being at home, and the Raiders finally seeing a W in Week 5, unlike the Patriots who haven’t seen one since September 24 against a Zach Wilson New York Jets team. Again, not much going on here except for two really bad teams playing near a Tacos El Gordo (the best part of this whole matchup).
RAMS -7: The Cardinals have lost their last two games by 14 or more points as their defense continues to crumble. The Rams on the other hand have the clear offensive advantage in this game at home, and should be able to penetrate the Cardinals’ defense by more than 7 points with Stafford (QB), Williams (RB) and Nacua (WR).
EAGLES -7: The undefeated Eagles take on the 2-3 New York Jets with no advantage here aside from being at home among many Eagles fans. However, the Jets have done well to keep it close against KC and beat the Buffalo Bills. However, the Birds were able to beat the Rams last week in LA by 9 points so 7 doesn’t seem impossible in New Jersey. Especially since Zach Wilson already has 5 interceptions this season and it would only take one more to get an easy extra 7 points on the board.
BILLS -14: The Giants have been a flaming dumpster fire all season and the Bills have been killing every team so far except for the Jags last week. Are the Bills coming here to feel good, try to crush this team, and show dominance once again??? I think so after that devastating loss against the Jags. Again, let’s not forget the Bills crushed the Dolphins by 28 points the week before and we all know the Giants are not the Miami Dolphins.
Chargers +2.5: The Chargers are coming off a bye-week in LA to play a Cowboys team that may be missing their RB Tony Pollard. No bueno for the Cowboys as that may impact their offense if he’s limited or not playing. The great news here, is that the Chargers are underdogs so anything close or a W is a cash out for us. Again, it’s a bye-week, they are at home, and Dallas may be out an RB making this an easy underdog pick.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Every week I seem to find a theme with my picks. Some weeks I lay heavily into the favorites. This week it seems I took all the big spreads and told Vegas to cash me out on every single one of them. To be clear, I don’t tell myself I am going to pick them all, but as I look at every game under the shitty microscope I tend to find enough fault in the other teams to justify taking the bigger point spreads. Lastly, check out my picks in greater detail on the show, along with our other co-host for an hour of fun before kickoff every Sunday this season. Let me know in the comments what you think about Week 6 here, or on whatever social media platform this is posted @
| | @darthvaber99
1-BRONCOS @ CHIEFS — Another ho hum Chiefs victory, not as exciting for me as the one they had (I think against Denver) on “Thanks Jack Rudnay Day”. CHIEFS
2-RAVENS @ TITANS — Titans let me down big time last week, getting stuffed on 4th and 1 in a moment of truth at Indy. But as usual, I think they can take the Ravens.. For whatever reason, I’ve gotta go against my worst instincts. RAVENS.
3-1:00 PM SAINTS @ TEXANS — This could well be one of the best games to watch. Saints are slim favs on the road, and this is the second road game in succession. Not exactly a resounding vote of confidence after that demolition of New England. Who cares. Their defense will probably win the game when it matters. SAINTS.
4 -4:25 PM LIONS @ BUCCANEERS (John Walter’s choice, TY) — When you’re talking about the more talented team, you’re definitely talking bout the Lions. But well-rested Bucs make it interesting. Still, talkin bout the Lions. LIONS
5-SNF GIANTS @ BILLS — Seriously? BILLS (no Scott Norwood to save the Jr. G-men. 6- COWBOYS @ CHARGERS– the fine Arab CHARGERS… CHARGERS all the way
— All glory is fleeting … someone forgot to whisper that in our leader’s ear when he discounted the Maxx resiliency of Crosby and his brigade of Sin City surrogates.
— Too bad for the Doyyers that Dave Roberts had his Mitch McConnell freeze moment
— DD gets sent home from scab school when she refuses to check into the TB-12 clinic
— Eric happily goes to that infamous island with his Boyz-friends. LOL!
–Rams body slam me with a completely meaningless 2nd half… live, on-the-air embarrassment
–Only Jimmy Dean has woken up like a tight pair of pants, ready to rip
–Well-read was barking up the wrong tree by hoping for salvation from Joshua
–another game involving 2 heretofore unimpressive teams.. Bengals vs. Cards… so I glad I took the Bungles for no apparent reason…
–Some of us “forgot” that the Steelers have lately owned the Ravens during the regular year
–Shame on Washington for breaking out those black and gold unis and backing away from their Redskin roots
–I was totally serious when I reminded everyone that the Saints could go into New England and win… to bad I forgot my own advice
–Giants are just as incompetent as NJ Transit… omg
–Poor Aaron gets stuck with the stink Panthers in abstentia.
–They’ve got some good Jameson in Detroit, and I’m not talking about whiskey.
–According to US Grant, debt happens!
Hello, Chabdog racing fans, and welcome to the Charlotte Motor Speedway…road course edition! Yes, today we find ourselves on a 17-turn road course with some really cool viewing areas and a pedestrian bridge I wouldn’t mind finding myself on watching all the action. Today is an important race for the 12 remaining NASCAR playoff drivers as four of them will be cut today. You heard that right, we’re going to slice four of them off with the 8 remaining battling it out in Las Vegas starting next week. Below is a preview of today’s road course:
Source: ROVAL-Seating Chart-2021 (charlottemotorspeedway.com)
Qualifying is done for today’s race, and I’ve posted the Top 10 drivers as shown below:
Source: Charlotte Motor Speedway Road Course Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
However, we’re not done yet folks as we’re also in NASCAR playoff season! Fortunately, those, “on the bubble” (9, 10, 11 & 12), still have a chance in this road course to come out on top for next week’s race. Currently, William Byron and Ryan Blaney have secured a spot for winning prior playoff races with 4 bubble drivers doing anything and everything to win this race to clinch a spot for next week. However, I also expect a lot of competition coming from Kyle Larson (7) and Brad Keselowski (8) since they’ll need to put in a good fight to ensure they see any more playoff action next week. So let’s see how we currently stand below:
Source: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs | Official Site Of NASCAR
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
This week’s “chalk pick” is Tyler Reddick.
Last week’s race results:
YellaWood 500 @ Talladega Superspeedway
Source: Talladega Superspeedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
My pick: Tyler Reddick
Lastly, sound off who you think our podium winner is for today’s race in the comments below!
With that, let’s get ready to NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASCAR!
| | @darthvaber99
From 9:05 to 9:45 we’ll hit these 8 games – who shamefully bets against the tide and goes to pedo island? then… what would Dorothy D eat?
Never wear this Steelers bullshit ever again
— Washington Redskins (@WASHREDSKlNS) October 6, 2023
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies based solely on Taylor Swift’s game attendance, and drunken logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6 Week 2: 8 Week 3: 6 Week 4: 8
Also, need to honorably mention that you’ll have a whopping 44.44% chance that you’ll make any money from my fantastic NFL picks, or you can fade me for a 55.56% chance of making money from my shitty NFL picks (not bad). So let’s try this again with the goal of getting into the double digits with my Week 5 picks.
WASHINGTON COMMIES -6.5: OOOOOOF the 0-4 Chicago Bears are simply trash this season, especially after losing to the Denver Broncos (another team that can go into the 23-24 fire dumpster). Yes the Commies, as we like to call them here at Chabdog Sports, are 2-2, however, losing to the Eagles in OT is also no small feat! AAAAAnd everyone knows that the Bears are nowhere near the Eagles, shit, if the Chicago Bears had baby cubs, those cubs would grow up dreaming they too could be mighty Eagles one day. The Bears are fucked this season so let’s ride 0-5.
BILLS -5.5: The 2-2 Jaguars have a great chance this season to lead the AFC South and make it into the playoffs, however, the 3-1 Bills are starting to hit their stride and are simply a better team. Especially after blowing out the Miami Dolphins by 28 points. Again, we will find ourselves in London with no true home-field advantage with the only real advantage favoring the Jags since they’re more acclimated to the timezone difference considering they played in London last week against the Falcons in Toy Story Mode.
TEXANS +1: Amazing to witness that that the 2-2 Texans are simply tied with everyone else in the AFC South in Week 5. I also like how people are starting to give them much more value in picking them considering they blew out the Steelers and the Jags by 20 or more points. Additionally, I’m factoring in how the Falcons just lost to the Jaguars 23-7 while looking at Houston who just blew that team out of the water two weeks ago. +1 seems like a gift from the Vegas Gawds.
LIONS -9: The Detroit Lions are looking like the team that will most likely lead the NFC North this season if nothing changes moving forward. Of course, we need to consider that the Lions come into this game as both the offensive and defensive leader while taking on more formidable opponents by two or more touchdowns in the last two weeks. The 0-4 Panthers are simply bad, and owe those losses to the Vikings, Seahawks, Saints, and Falcons. Teams that have been struggling a little bit out of the gate this season with the Seahawks being the only team with a winning record right now (3-1).
TITANS -1.5: On paper, the Titans and the Colts are simply “even Steven” with the Colts giving up more yards than the Titans. The only real advantage I see here is the Titan’s offense cutting through the Colt’s weaker defense with greater opportunities for the Titans to kick field goals and make stronger offensive drives toward the endzone. On the flip side, Titans QB Tannehill already has 4 interceptions this season and could give up another one in this game to switch the momentum and keep the game interesting. Ultimately, I feel the Titans have the ability to get closer to the endzone with greater chances to kick field goals than the Colts to easily beat them by more than a point and a half.
MIAMI -11: Wow, what a spread. However, one can’t deny that the Dolphins are simply an offensive powerhouse that is playing a ridiculously incompetent NY Giants team. I mean, when Daniel Jones (QB) is his team’s statistical leader as a passer and rusher, you know that guy is just simply skreeeeewed. I don’t know if he can magically do it all against this Miami Dolphins team without getting hurt and being sent to the hospital. Prayers bro…seriously.
PATRIOTS -1.5: The Saints are simply in a bad spot considering that Derek Carr is still questionable as of October 5 for this game and his backup QB, Taysom Hill, got his ass handed to him against the Bucs. Also, like to mention that I stated that on the show to much fury from my co-hosts who thought Hill was going to do something magical against the Bucs…like seriously, WTF are they even thinking??? Additionally, Bill Belichick is ridiculously pissed right now, and I can’t see him losing this game at home against a hurt Saints team.
RAVENS -4.5: Holy caca do the Steelers royally suck this season. I mean, WOW just WOW. How the hell is the spread for this game even -4.5 against a Ravens team that blew out the Cleveland Brown’s impenetrable defense in Week 4? I mean, come on guys, what are we looking at here that I’m missing? We don’t even know if Kenny Pickett (QB) is going to play in this game to add insult to injury here. Easssssssssssssssssy money.
BENGALS -3: I really harped in on the 49ers/Cards game last week, and boy were they defensively awful against the 49ers. If the Cards repeat whatever the hell they did in Week 4 defensively, Joe Burrow (QB) is going to have an absolute field day with them. A confidence boost the Bengals need to get out of this funky slump they find themselves in right now.
EAGLES -4.5: The Rams and the Eagles both have great offensive numbies, but let’s keep in mind that the Rams could have easily been a 3-1 team if it wasn’t for their OT win against the Colts in Week 4. Looking at their Week 2 performance against another strong offensive team (49ers), we saw the Rams lose that game by 7 points at home. Therefore, it’s very possible that the Eagles can soar above this threshold considering they’re extremely motivated to go 5-0 with the Rams in a similar scenario. Something that I referenced in my Week 1 blog recalling them having a stellar start to their season last year, and ultimately going to the Superbowl. See below:
Spectacular run for the Eagles. No one expected them to fly this high for this long, but they did. Won’t be surprised if @rihanna sings for them next year 🦅 https://t.co/NTzj4BYYaf
— Abe (@DarthVaber99) November 15, 2022
BRONCOS -1.5: Hello Dumpster Fire Game of the Week between two real garbage 1-3 teams who are both miserable to watch right now. Even better, the spread is this tiny because they both equally blow in every way. Of course, I’m going to go with the Broncos simply because Russel Wilson is offensively better than Zach Wilson along with the mile-high factor in Denver, and Sean Payton as their Head Coach. Also, the Broncos may feel they’re on the upswing considering they just barely beat another garbage team in Week 4. Unfortunately, I lost that pick simply because the spread was 3.5 and the Broncos beat the Bears by only 3!! Ultimately, plugging in the same formula I applied last week but with a 1.5 spread instead of 3.5.
KC SWIFTS -5.5: Don’t let any offensive numbers fool you that the Vikings are any good, considering the only team they’ve beaten has been the gawd awful Panthers. But I also need you to know that I’ve picked the Vikings wrong every week except Week 4 simply because the Vikings were playing the Panthers (a dumpster fire). So if you’re going to fade me on any pick, this might be the one considering the Chiefs barely beat the Jets last week. However, Taylor Swift might be in attendance and she’s been 2-0 since attending so…
Taylor Swift after Travis Kelce’s touchdown: “LFG!”
This is real.
🎥 @NFL pic.twitter.com/RIJWi4bUe4
— The Athletic NFL (@TheAthleticNFL) September 24, 2023
49ERS -3.5: This game is going to be great! Two great teams with decent offense and defense that have really done well so far. Especially the undefeated 49ers. So how do we pick a side here? Well, let’s start with a home-field advantage and the fact that the 49ers killed the Cardinals 35-16 vs the Cowboys who lost to them 28-16 in Week 3. Also like to note that Brock Purdy has yet to throw an interception, but again, not too much else here in the stat box aside from slightly better offensive yardage over the Cowboys when plugging in the numbers.
PACKERS -1.5: The biggest factor in this game is Jimmy Garoppolo (QB) coming into this game off concussion protocol with absolutely no practice time and having already thrown 6 interceptions in the short time he’s played. Additionally, the Packers have Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon to either score touchdowns or gain enough rushing yards to kick a field goal in this one. Lastly, the Raiders have been a disappointment so far, even losing to the shitty Steelers at their own home opener. I am not boasting that the Packers are amazing, but theirs just too much negative juju to put any money on the Raiders right now and a 1.5 spread makes this pick a lot easier in favor of the quesoheads
FINAL THOUGHTS
OK, so the majority of my picks in Week 5 are the favorites this week, however, sometimes matchups line up like stars where there are real justifiable reasons to pick the favorites aside from being favorites. Finally, it’s been fun blogging my picks this NFL season considering I’ve never actually blogged before as we just implemented this thing like 5 weeks ago here at Chabdog Sports! Especially learning how to do things, like embedding tweets like you see above. Of course, it takes me like 40 times longer to write this thing out since there’s no real instruction manual on how to work this thing, but it’s been fun figuring it out, and glad that Chabdog Sports has this amazing website that does so many cool things that is similar to what I’ve seen my gawd brudder, “Frank The Tank”, do over at Barstool Sports. Can’t tell you how much I’ve seen this place grow since I’ve been here
| | @darthvaber99
THE YELLOW ROLLS ROYCE, Wally Cox, 1964
We haven’t seen back-to-back World Series champions since the Yankees won three straight from 1998 to 2000, but I think we’ll see some history this year. The Astros will repeat as champs after having to battle just to qualify for the October tournament.
I guess we’ll never know 🤷♂️ pic.twitter.com/86jCyYO8d8
— Houston Astros (@astros) October 1, 2023
In a series of events that struck too close to home for a Mets fan like myself, the Astros stole the AL West title from the Rangers on the final day of the regular season. Texas choked big time by losing 1-0 to the recently eliminated Mariners when a win would send them through to the ALDS. Instead, it will be Houston bypassing the Wild Card round as the number two seed. That’s a pretty big difference between having to win two out of three games in Tampa Bay just to reach the Division Series.
Now that the Astros have the bye locked up, their top competition in the AL are the Orioles, who won 11 more games than Houston in the regular season. However, the young Baltimore team doesn’t have the proven pitching and big-game experience that the defending champs have. Does that mean that the Orioles can’t win the pennant and the World Series with a bunch of bright-eyed and bushy-tailed kids? No, we’ve seen teams like this win big before. I just trust Justin Verlander and Cristian Javier more in a big spot than Kyle Bradish and Grayson Rodriguez.
The National League will be Atlanta’s to lose. The Braves have one of the most fearsome lineups we’ve ever seen. The rotation is shaky, but so is that of the Dodgers, who figure to be the number one obstacle between Atlanta and the pennant. If Ronald Acuna Jr. and company can mash their way past the Phillies in a revenge spot from last year’s Postseason, I think they’ll win the pennant.
No matter who comes out of the NL, I still like Houston to win the World Series. No other team has the rotation experience of the Astros plus the deep lineup that is headlined by Yordan Alvarez and Kyle Tucker. Houston also has a solid bench and reliable bullpen that will come into play during tight games. Plus, Dusty Baker will make this team feel like it is playing with house money since they came from behind to clinch the division. After vindicating themselves as legitimate champions that don’t need a trash can scandal to win, the Astros are about to start a dynasty.
Sports Deflections of a mad Middle-aged man:
Disclaimer — I actually had a very productive and satsifying day, allthings be told–
Things were going pretty well after Thursday and 6 AM, and then the roofs fell in:
— Jax had the accelerator pressed down, if not to the max, and it didn’t need more, because the Falcons weren’t rid of Ridder.
— Dolphins turn into the dullphins as soon as I grant them my favors, probably because I called out their coach for being cocky and dorky.
— Bears turn out to a afraid of their own shadow, but held on like grim death when i thought you couldn’t beat the disabling spread.
— Then after our clip with Nicky shooting the horse in Kubrick’s “The Killing”, ChabDog was dead at 27:37
— ChabDog inappropriately tried to impose “Chabner’s Law” when vouching for the Steelers. Not much to say about the way Houston is playing its defense vs. the way Pittsburgh is conducting his offense.. Yes Aaron, you were a prophet.
— Those Bengals were titanic flops in TN. In the back of my mind, I knew the Titans could, and probably would, smash Cincy to smithereens. The Bengals just exist for me to misjudge, in seemingly every situation.
— Rams and the Colts…. god did this one hurt. Matthew Stafford dragged himself around like grim death, but when push came to shove he was able to get it done. I know their rooke QB did pretty well, but I was hoping to see Gardner MInchew, who seems to surpass excections more often than note.
— Speaking about hanging around like grim death, how about them Commies? Giving the Eagles a run for their money. and I get punished for weakly and meekly bowing to the weight of panel opinon.
–like the kid in Animal House when the majorette comes crashing through the bedroom window… “Thank you god!”.. the Vikings finally play up to their reasonable expectations and defang the stink Panthers.
— the Patriots vs. the Cowboys… thank you New England for using the relatively run-less slugfest against the Jets as a vehicle for sucking me to your delusions of competitiveness at AT&T. And if I ever pay home to a Bill Bellichick team, shoot me.
— My afneroon was somewhat saved, when the Chargers sort of backed in to yet another deflating experience for the Raydes. O’Connelll was better than expected, but Oakland was charitable as ever in terms of giving the game away.
— and then the crushing disappointment of what happened with Cards-Niners and Chiefs-Jets. First, the Cardinals pull within 12 late in the third, then I see it balloon like an overfed tic, only to see Arizona drive to the San Fan 11 with 40 seconds lift… then drive just runs out of gas. Then,, it’s beyond belief what chief Chief does to avoid scoring that simple TD and prevent the spread covering chippy field goal.
Are we sure that Zach Wilson didn’t bang Rodney Harrison’s mom? https://t.co/iQ381EMsmd
— Aaron Yorke (@AaronPYorke) October 2, 2023
That fucker Mahomes slid before the touchdown # pic.twitter.com/q5eHgEXo7p
— The Informer (@therealinformer) October 2, 2023
We learned who the pretenders were in Week 4: the “nice try” Dolphins, the “bad news” Bears, and the “we suck again” Browns. Not to mention we in the LA market got stuck watching the Rams vs. Colts in the early game which sucked until the Rams choked in the 4th quarter and then sucked again when the Rams won in overtime
Aaron has 9 wins and a shot at 10 depending on tonight’s outcome. The rest of us? We didn’t win so much. Four times we were unanimous on a pick and three times it was the kiss of death for those teams: Bengals got screwed, blued, and tattooed by the Titans and the Cards were stopped from a back-door-cover by Zac Ertz dropping a certain score twice on the last 2 plays. Fuck me! But wait, it gets better: KC plays listless with the Jets and then Mahomes on the last drive decides to fall down outside the endzone like he’s playing freeze tag and blow the cover to smithereens. The whole nation saw the smirk on your face when you did that Mahomes. Not sure what you are trying to prove Pat but you’re not going to beat the Dolphins’ point differential by leaving points on the field poindexter.
Hello Chabdog Racing Fans! Once again we find ourselves at Talladega Superspeedway this season with the biggest difference being that we are in the playoffs! Below you’ll find a track map to get a sense of how big this place is! I mean this place is HUUUUUUUGE, it even has a tram to shuttle you around this place!
Source: TSS-23-471382-Facility-Map_v4_CROP-FINAL.pdf (talladegasuperspeedway.com)
Qualifying is done for this race, and I’ve posted the Top 10 drivers below for today’s race below:
Source: Talladega Superspeedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
However, we’re not done yet folks as we’re also in NASCAR playoff season! Fortunately, those, “on the bubble” (9, 10, 11 & 12), still have a chance in this race and next week’s race in Charlotte to try to come out on top as the Round of 8 will commence in Las Vegas on October 15th. Currently, William Byron has clinched his spot in Las Vegas as he just won the previous race @ Texas Motor Speedway. So technically we are now fighting for 7 remaining spots among 11 drivers. So let’s see how we currently stand below:
Source: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs | Official Site Of NASCAR
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
This week’s “chalk pick” is Aric Almirola.
Last week’s race results:
AutoTrader EchoPark Automotive 400 @ Texas Motor Speedway Results
Source: Texas Motor Speedway Race Results, Lineup | Official Site Of NASCAR
My pick: Kyle Larson for the mere fact that he’s qualified 4th for today’s race and is also sitting in the 8th spot of the playoffs. A win here would clinch a spot for him until the Round of 8 and he needs that since he could get bumped out of his spot based on his performance here and in Charlotte.
Lastly, sound off who you think our podium winner is for today’s race in the comments below!
With that, let’s get ready to NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASCAR!
| | @darthvaber99
We’ll reveal our menu of special selections, including sprinkles of numbies analysis from Abe, Well-read’s saucy sound bits that form that impressive hard shell, and the marachino cherry that is Dorothy’s final word. Plus, MLB playoffs and some of the juicy acition at the latest imp
eachment inquiry.
We’re unanimous on Bengals over Titans, Chargers over Raiders, Cards over 49ers, Chiefs over Jets, and Sea over Giants. We differ here:
9:00 ChabDog’s Opening
9:05 Dolphins @ Bills
9:10 Vikings @ Panthers
9:15 Broncos @ Bears – need to arm the bears
9:20 Ravens @ Browns
9:25 Steelers @ Texans
9:30 Bucs @ Saints
9:35 Commies @ Eagles
9:40 Patriots @ Cowboys
9:45 What Would Dorothy Eat?
9:50 College wrap up
9:55 ChabDog closing
9:59 KICK-OFF!!!
the secret arm workout 💪 – https://t.co/Vvg3fTWKan pic.twitter.com/rmrZaqWeo5
— Dietitian Dorothy Dawn (@DorothyDawn) September 26, 2023
The most left field Rap Album release of 2023. If the listener don’t know Baseball or its history they missing 85% of these bars. Some cats still discovering Basketball analogies from He Got Game in 1998. I have massive fun in HipHop Rap hiding bars within https://t.co/ZjynWwbWEP
— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) September 28, 2023
If you want to break the hottest sports news, you’re gonna need 900 clocks, a fleet of 19-inch TVs, and more wood paneling than a fucking Lowe’s. I still believe this. pic.twitter.com/CkmdsjZbUY
— Super 70s Sports (@Super70sSports) September 29, 2023
On the plus side for Dianne Feinstein she’s all done seeing Kelce and Swift.
— B. Miller (@BlaiseInKC) September 29, 2023
Hey everyone and welcome to another episode of me making shitty picks based on flawed science, numbies, and logic since my current record is:
Week 1: 6
Week 2: 8
Week 3: 6
Also, need to honorably mention that you’ll have a whopping 42.55% chance that you’ll make any money off my NFL picks so, “Yes, I’m truly the Oakland A’s of making NFL picks this season”! But then again, you can fade me for a 57.45% chance of making money from my picks (not bad). So let’s try this again with the goal of getting into the double digits with my Week 4 picks.
PACKERS +1.5*: “Love” how the Packers are going into this game at home as undergogs considering Aaron Jones might still come in and play as he’s listed as “questionable” right now. The battle of the 2-1 teams will make for a great competitive Thursday Night Football game with the Packers edging out the Lions at Lambeau Field.
JAGUARS -3*: Excited to see this game in Toy Story mode on Disney + as this game will be played at Wembley Stadium in London with no team actually being at “home”…and, with only diehard Flacons and Jags fans making up the minority of European NFL fans who may have no particular loyalty to either team but are there to drink, cause hell, and watch LIVE American “futbol”. Both teams will be traveling far with jet lag sucking for both of them. On paper, I think an argument can be made for either team since the Jags have better offensive yards than the Falcons, and the Falcons have given up less defensively than the Jags. Ultimately, I think Trevor Lawrence is the better and more experienced QB who is hunting for a win after losing to the Texans as a 9.5-point favorite last week. Fortunately for us, the spread is only 3.
BILLS -2.5*: I know a lot of folks are leaning on the Dolphins to bulldoze every team in the NFL by 50 points, but I am going with the Bills at home even though the Dolphins are an offensive powerhouse. However, let’s keep in mind that the Bills are also an offensive powerhouse, with a better defense than Miami. One thing to keep in mind is that Miami has a lot of inflated offensive numbies right now because the Broncos sucked super ass and got blown out of the water by 50 points. I don’t expect a repeat here in Buffalo.
VIKINGS -3.5*: The battle of the 0-3 teams begins. I can tell you that I’ve picked the Vikings and have lost my ass to them in the last 3 weeks, however, the Vikings come into this game as the clear winner of the offensive game with fantastic numbies coming from Kirk Cousins (QB) and Justin Jefferson (WR). Yes, I’ve been talking like this about the Vikings since Week 1, but we’re also talking about the 0-3 Carolina Panthers. Not going to lie, but if I come out a loser on this pick I’ll pretty much hate the Vikings for the rest of the season.
BRONCOS -3.5* “SHIT GAME OF THE WEEK”: Welcome Ladies & Gentleman to the “Shit Game of The Week”. Two shitty teams battling it out in Chicago where the loser will be crowned a real, real shitty team. Favoring the Broncos on their offensive advantage and Sean Payton needing to redeem himself after losing to the Dolphins by 50 points.
BROWNS -2.5*: Counting on Deshaun Watson (QB) and Kareem Hunt (RB) to play and provide the offense to beat the Ravens. Also, we need to acknowledge that the Browns have great defensive numbies and I expect them to put the brakes on Lamar Jackson (QB).
STEELERS -3*: Yes, Houston has better offensive and defensive numbers right now, but they’ve also only won one fluke game against a Jaguars team that was a 9.5-point favorite. Steelers on the other hand beat the Raiders in Vegas, and the Browns with a powerful defense. This game might bring the Texans back to reality with a loss here at home.
RAMS +1*: The Colts QB situation will be a real factor in this game. If Anthony Richardson does come back to play against the Rams, then +1 will look like a steal since he hasn’t played in a few weeks. Offensively and defensively the Rams hold the advantage. Although they’ve lost the last two games, it’s also worth mentioning it was against the Bengals and 49rs. Rams need to get back in the W column and I think they’ll resurrect their mojo from Game 1 to get it done here.
BUCS +3.5*: As of right now, Derek Carr (QB) is still questionable for this game, and I expect that without the Saint’s star QB, for the Saints to go into suck-ass mode. Regardless, I can’t see D. Carr at 100%, even if he does play. My money is on the Bucs +3.5.
Eagles -8.5*: The 3-0 Eagles are hot with the Commanders proving that they can lose by 34 points. I feel like 8.5 points is chump change for the Eagles with this team easily going 4-0 at home.
Bengals -2.5*: On paper, both teams look equal with 1 tight game Win a piece. Ultimately, the Bengals are a slightly better team, and that is why they’re favored to win by a low margin. Gotta pick a side, and am banking on the Bengals’ coming off a win to edge them out over the Titans by more than 2.5 points. Ra
Chargers -5.5*: Without Jimmy Garoppolo (QB), the Raiders are pretty much walking into an electrocution in LA. If Garoppolo does play, then it may be possible to see the Raiders come within the point spread since they haven’t lost by more than 5 points if you omit their Buffalo Bills game
Cowboys -7*: The Patriots and the Cowboys have both faced the Jets in the first few weeks of the season with the Cowboys going 30-10 and the Pats going 15-10. On paper, both teams look equal, so no one here is the clear winner. However, the Cowboys have proven to be strong offensively, and I expect them to play hard at home after losing to the Arizona Cardinals 28-16.
Cardinals +14*: We all know the 3-0 49ers are good. We also know that it’s very likely the 49ers will go 4-0 after playing the Cardinals at home. However, the same could be said about the Cowboys who also lost to the Cardinals as a heavy favorite meaning that the Cardinals could keep this game tighter than what the bookmakers in Vegas are calling for. Another factor in this game is that Deebo Samuel (WR) is currently listed as questionable which favors the Cardinals tremendously if he does not play or is not running at 100%.
Chiefs -9.5*: The Chiefs are feeling good after beating the Bears by 31 points, while the Jets continue to struggle under Zach Wilson. Taylor Swift is expected to be at the game to motivate Travis Kelce to get TD after TD with the media going bananas every time Travis touches the ball while robbing Jackson and Brittany Mahomes from the spotlight (oh no..what shall we do?).
Seahawks +1.5*: What a gift to have the Seahawks come into this game as 1.5-point underdogs. Right off the bat, the Giants star RB Saquan Barkley is listed as questionable, and the Giants cannot afford to lose anybody right now. I mean, this team is already bad with a full squad, so losing your RB or not being able to play him at 100% is just bad. Ultimately, this will be a great Monday Night Football game if you’re a Seahawks fan so go out and get yourself some beer, pizza, and chicken wings, and go watch the Giants lose in New Jersey.
*Odds courtesy of MGM Sportsbook (09/27/2023)
| | @darthvaber99
https://www.facebook.com/mlb/videos/642220568034853
Miggy left a big impression, and to date, 511 dingers.
Bidding a fond farewell to Brooks Robinson. He was a joy to watch, except if you were the other team. He had the best hot corner hands of all time… with all due respect to Schmidt, Brett and a rew others. And he was a money hitter, and dangerous tour de force to have to deal with. Won 2 World Championships, along with how many All-Stars and gold gloves. Topping that off was his work as a broadcaster for them O’s. He could say “Jim Palmer” better than anyone else.
And at some early age, I forgot he wore No. 5, my favorite number for no apparent reason.
Seattle Seahawks @ NYG +1.5 (-110) [[How in the hell to the Giants deserve this spread?
An Oakland Raiders wears a bag over his head during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
somebody on our panel raised an Arizona desert squall today by going for all of double digits
Yeeeeeeeeehaw! We find ourselves at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas this Sunday! Look at this place! It even has its own dedicated dirt track and “Lil’ Texas Motor Speedway” track, proving once again, that everything just goes BIG in Texas. 
Source: tms-facility-diagram.jpg (texasmotorspeedway.com)
Sunday’s race will be a 267-lapper, 400-mile race, on a 1.5-mile oval speedway with the lineup already set in place with Bubba Wallace taking the poll position. The top 10 drivers of the lineup are shown below who will battle it out starting at 12:30 p.m. (PT) / 3:30 p.m. (ET).
Source: AutoTrader EchoPark Automotive 400 | Official Site Of NASCAR
In addition to watching a great race, this is also a playoff race with 12 drivers competing to make the final 8 scheduled for October 15 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The good news is that the 4 remaining drivers in the bubble have this race, Talladega (Oct 1), and Charlotte (Oct 9) to win a race (clinch a spot) or acquire enough points to make the final 8 spots. As such, we’ll have 12 drivers fighting it out (extra hard) in Texas to win the race.
Source: 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs | Official Site Of NASCAR
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
This week’s “chalk pick” is Bubba Wallace
ABE’s PICK: I’m picking Kyle Busch since he has won more and has been in the top five than any other active driver (4 wins & 14 top-fives) here @ Texas Motor Speedway. He’s currently sitting in the 7th spot in the lineup and the 6th spot in the playoff standings. Right now I need to get my pick in the top 3 so that I can gain some points and continue to secure the second spot in our exclusive Chabdog Pick’em Game! So I’m putting all my cookies in with someone who has the most experience getting to the top 5 at this race course and is currently in the playoff hunt. However, let me hear in the comments who your podium winner is for this race. With that, LET’S GET READY TO NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASCAR!
| @darthvaber99
How did they get this into the stadium?
Where on earth did they hide it?
https://t.co/r59ZZ0Tp4M pic.twitter.com/CWWAZuPPNf
— Well Read Producer ChabDog.com (@NewportBest_) September 20, 2023
It is too little and way too late, but the Mets are finally beginning to play like a competent baseball team. That’s not an insignificant thing when you consider the downgrades that Stevie Cohen and Billy Eppler made to this New York roster before the trade deadline. The Mets are 6-4 in their last 10 and that is against three opponents in Arizona, Cincinnati, and Miami that are desperate for wins in the National League Wild Card race. Not only are we starting to see some promise from the Mets’ prospects like Ronny Mauricio and Mark Vientos, but the pitching rotation looks as strong as it has all season even though Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander have been replaced by Jose Butto and Joey “Meatball” Lucchesi. Mauricio is playing so well that Eppler looks like a complete fool for holding him back in the minor leagues for the first five months of the season, while Vientos showed off his power with a pair of home runs in a 8-3 win over the Marlins on Wednesday night. Plus, Butto and Lucchesi look like they can be assets in the middle of next year’s rotation.
Mark Vientos' 2nd homer of the night! pic.twitter.com/Ieu0qEEfd4
— SNY (@SNYtv) September 21, 2023
Even Brett Baty got in on the action with a home run, and I’ve already written him off as a complete bust. He has given the Mets almost nothing with his .212/.282/.323 hitting and inconsistent defense that ranges from brilliant to Daniel Murphy depending on the night. Now the Mets have 10 games left in the regular season with seven against the Phillies and three vs. the Marlins. It would be just splendid if the Mets could ruin both of their seasons to get us fans some vengeance for the disasters of 2007 and 2008. For the Marlins, that is very possible since they are on the outside of the Wild Card hunt looking in. For the Phillies, the Mets would probably have to win all seven games since Philadelphia has a four-game cushion. A man can dream, though, and I am more excited for this Mets vs. Phillies game tonight than I have been for a baseball game in a long time. I love beating Philly! It’s just a shame that they won’t have to see Kodai Senga since he pitched last night and should make his final start of the season on Wednesday against Miami.
That brings up an interesting question: Am I more excited for the Mets or New York Football Giants tonight? The Giants are 10-point underdogs in San Francisco for Thursday Night Football and they are missing two of their most impactful players on offense with RB Saquon Barkley and LT Andrew Thomas out due to injury. After all the good vibes that came from Sunday’s comeback win against Arizona, we could be headed back to another beatdown reminiscent of the 40-0 nightmare vs. Dallas in Week 1. How do the Giants at least give us a sign that the team has grown since then and is capable of competing against the top teams in the NFC? It starts with not having a field goal blocked and returned for a touchdown. In fact, cutting down on turnovers all together would at least force San Francisco to put some work in on offense to get ahead. The Cowboys did not have to do that 11 days ago.
Eliminating turnovers is easier said than done with Thomas out and Nick Bosa foaming at the mouth on the other side of the line of scrimmage. Jones is going to be under pressure, and the pressure will be worse when the Giants are facing second- and third-and long. The key will be completing short passes on first down. Barkley only managed 3.7 yards per carry against Arizona, so I very much doubt Matt Breida will make a dent in this San Francisco rush defense. The Giants ought to cut the run game out in the early going and put San Francisco on its heels. Get Darren Waller going and set up some longer throws to Jalin Hyatt, who was only targeted twice last Sunday, but he made those targets count with two catches for 89 yards.
On defense, the Giants need the fourth quarter rush defense from last Sunday to show up, and not the rush defense that let James Conner run over them for most of the game. If Christian McCaffrey gets going, it will set up everything the 49ers want to do, and the game will snowball from there. The Giants need to get to the point where Brock Purdy has to make a play, but even if they get there, the pass rush is so feeble that he will probably make those plays. I am counting on Wink Martindale dialing up some creative blitzes to get someone in the backfield. The four-man rush was almost useless against Arizona except for when Dexter Lawrence was bullying interior linemen. The “star” pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux has been the Giants’ version of Baty: highly touted, but not effective at all so far.
The Giants need way too much to go right for them to have success in San Francisco tonight. I will settle for them not getting completely humiliated and hopefully covering the spread.
Another week More shitty picks! Welcome to another episode of watching me barely make .500 on my weekly NFL picks, “Against the Spread (ATS)”. As you can see below, I’m in last place, but also in last place with the CEO of Chabdog Sports. So if I make more shitty picks, the CEO will probably love me more because at least he won’t be in last place. Also, is that a dildo on the field in the picture below??? Ahhh, only at independently owned Chabdog Sports can we somehow and magically pull off these shenanigans on the West Coast of America. Is it because we work with “Frank The Tank” from Barstool Sports and they love him so much no one wants to mess with our little mom-and-pop show here in Cali? Is it because we are owned by a law firm? I don’t know, so here you have it, more shitty picks…and a dildo from a Californian trying to make a brand for himself. So without further delay….my shitty NFL picks.
(Week 2 Results – Eric Sauve)
GIANTS +10*: The 49rs are not the Cardinals, but I also can’t see them getting plowed like Week 1 against the Cowboys. On paper, the 49rs are favored offensively, however, they are showing a slightly weaker defense (although some of that can be attributed to the yards they gave up to the Rams). I like to think that the Giants have more life than to be beaten by 10 points…also hope they kick it when they’re down by 12 points.
(per ESPN)
RAVENS -8*: The Ravens are offensively and defensively better than the Colts. Additionally, Colts QB Anthony Richardson is listed as questionable with Gardner Minshew getting all the practice this week. This could get really ugly for the Colts making an 8-point spread look like chump change.
(per ESPN)
TITANS -3*: Had the Browns had Nick Chubb (RB) coming into this game, I may have picked the Browns -3. However, that is not the case, and will lean on the Titans to keep this game close or take home the W.
(per ESPN)
LIONS -3*: Jared Goff has racked up some great offensive numbies & beating out the KC Chiefs in Week 1. The Falcons are undefeated and show great defense. This game may be close with the edge going to interceptions or mistakes. This is a home game for the Lions and I lean on them putting on a good show for their fanbase.
(per ESPN)
SAINTS +2*: Everyone who knows me knows I’m a Packers fan, but I try to make picks based on a feeble attempt to win money. Saints are undefeated and have great offensive and defensive numbers going into this game. Additionally, Aaron Jones is questionable for this game compacted with my low confidence that he’ll play a full game against the Saints (if he plays). +2 is looking like a gift to me.
(per ESPN)
TEXANS +9.5*: On paper, the Texans actually have better offensive and defensive numbers with C.J. Stroud (QB) going for more yards and completions than Trevor Lawerance (QB). I can sit here and deny the math and say the Jags are going to run over the Texans by more than two touchdowns, but I’m simply going to go with the science here against a 9.5-point spread.
(per ESPN)
BRONCOS +6.5*: I love watching Russell Wilson (QB) lose, and the 0-2 Broncos have done a great job of keeping the streak going. The Dolphins on the other hand are undefeated with great offensive numbies coming into this game. However, the Broncos have lost by less than 6.5 points in the last two games and have only beaten the Patriots by more than that. This could turn out to be a close game considering the Dolphins QB has already thrown two interceptions. In the end, the Dolphins have the offense to go 3-0.
(per ESPN)
VIKINGS +1*: The battle of the 0-2 Chargers and the 0-2 Vikings with a 1-point spread makes this game, “the shit game of the week”. The Chargers are coming into this game defensively weak and in Minnesota. Everything is screaming for the Vikings to break their losing streak.
(per ESPN)
PATRIOTS -3*: The Patriots come into this game offensively and defensively favored against a 4-interception Zach Wilson New York Jets team. Had it been Aaron Rodgers, this game may have leaned the other way. I see the Patriots getting a confidence boost here when they beat the Jets by more than 3 points.
(per ESPN)
COMMANDERS +6.5*: I know many are leaning on the Bills, but we’re not talking about the Bills beating the undefeated Commanders at home…we’re talking about the Bills beating them by more than a touchdown. The numbies show that the Bills are not going to destroy the Commanders the same way they destroyed the Raiders. Now if they do destroy the Commanders, I do have Josh Allen on my fantasy team so I hope it’s by a million gazillion points.
(per ESPN)
Seahawks -6*: The Seahawks have been hit or miss the last two games with numbies demonstrating a weaker defense. Wouldn’t take much to keep this game close considering the Panthers lost to the Saints by only 3 points. However, with the Panthers star QB and RB listed as questionable with zero to nada practice this week, it could spell a huge disaster in Seattle for them (especially if they don’t play).
(per ESPN)
CARDINALS +12.5*: The Cowboys have been absolutely fantastic coming out of the gate and easily expect them to be the 3-0 Cowboys. However, the numbies show the Cards to be a little more competitive. Additionally, the Cards have not lost to any team by more than 4 points. Cowboy fans, regardless, should be happy with the actual outcome of this game.
(per ESPN)
BEARS +12.5*: The Chiefs have not beaten any team so far this season by more than 8 points and currently have Isiah Pacheco (RB) listed as questionable. The Bears are not a good team but hope that they’ll put in enough of a fight to keep it closer than 12.5 points. Regardless, Chief fans should come away happy with this game.
(per ESPN)
RAIDERS -2.5*: I am not a big fan of this game since both teams are hit-and-miss right now. The question is who’s going to hit and who’s going to miss. I am currently in a suicide pool and am not making this game my pick of the week since it could swing either way. This is a home game for the Raiders (home opener) and they’ve won two of their three last at Allegiant.
(per ESPN)
BUCS 5.5+*: Two undefeated teams that will be battling it out in Tampa. There is no math that says one team is going to blow the other out of the water here. I expect a tight game and the Bucs to cover the spread on their home turf.
(per ESPN)
RAMS +2*: This is a gift pick considering Joe Burrow is questionable and may not even play on MNF. Offensively and defensively the RAMS look better on paper with a healthier squad. The Bengals have yet to win a game this season and are likely to continue that streak on Monday. My money is on the RAMS.
(per ESPN)
*ALL ODDS COURTESY OF MGM SPORTSBOOK (09/17/2023)
| @darthvaber99
now has been deftly covering up a major defect at QB… BILLS
Watt and Highsmith take matters into their own hands, leading
the Steelers to what may be a season-saving home win over their bitter rivals on MNF.
The pass rush was mostly relentless, and that combined with the heavy hits exacted a mental and physical toll
on the opposition that seemed to explain Cleveland’s inability to execute at game end.
Yes, we won, but how many victories like this can you manufacture, in the absence of
a viable offense? There were a few bright spots, but the bottom line is the running game is
mostly stuck in the mud, and the pass scheme is in a word, stodgy.
As for the Browns, this game is yet another reminder that whatever they they thought they
were getting with Watson, an elite, or even above-average, QB he is not.
Prior to Chabdog Sports going full blog mode (literally a couple of weeks ago), and the show being trimmed down to an hour, I used to discuss on the show our previous NASCAR race, or upcoming NASCAR race, and our own Fantasy NASCAR Pick’em game that I came up with to make the segment fun and competitive (just as we do with our NFL picks every week). With that, let me break down our exclusive Chabdog Sports NASCAR fantasy game.
Every week the Chabdog Sports Team makes on-air picks on the show for the upcoming NASCAR race and earns points based on the following criteria:
: Anyone who picks the winning driver gets 3 points.
: Anyone who picks the 2nd place driver gets 2 points.
: Anyone who picks the 3rd place driver gets 1 point.
Lastly, if no one picks a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place driver then 1 point is awarded to the picked driver that is closest to the podium. Therefore, in our fantasy game, someone from the team always walks away with a point.
Sometimes our co-hosts are not available to make a pick, so we default our “chalk” pick to the pole position driver using the official line-up from NASCAR prior to the start of the race.
One last thing, when we finally get down to the Final Four Championship Race we end up making two picks for that race. The first pick is, “Who will win the Final Four and be our Champion?”, which is a do-or-die pick that is worth 4 points. The second pick is, “Who will actually win the race?”, which is scored exactly like any other race. So we can potentially win up to 7 points in the last race of the season. Some Co-hosts pick two different drivers here, and others go all in with one Final Four driver (win the season & the race).
To date, our co-host Dorothy is leading our group with 30 points and is the heavy favorite to ultimately win our fantasy game this year. If you look at today’s Bristol race (September 16, 2023) you’ll notice that everyone has Christopher Bell because it’s a Saturday race, our show is on Sunday, and I gave everyone (including myself) the “chalk” based on pole position (Christopher Bell). Fortunately for us, he came in 3rd place so everyone gets a point. However, had we all picked Ryan Newman who came in 36th place, we’d all still get a point since no one else had a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place pick, and Ryan Newman is the closest driver to the podium amongst the Chabdog Sports Team, even though he’s in last place.
Below is our current NASCAR Matrix that I maintain for the show. Here you can see how we’ve scored in each race, and the drivers each of us picked. Aaron didn’t join our team until July so he had to start with a slight disadvantage. In the future, we will award any new member of the team with all the “chalk” points rather than starting at zero. However, Aaron has done a commendable job catching up to the rest of us in the short time he has been with us (except for Dorothy who has lapped us all).
Final Thoughts
My NASCAR game is really cool and fun. Yes, there’s a lot of bias here because I came up with it, however, my co-hosts really have fun playing this little NASCAR game so if you have a group of friends who love NASCAR and want to make it competitive and fun, maybe this game will work for you like it did for us. Try it out and comment below if you find this game fun and cool, or have any questions.
| @darthvaber99
cuz after all the world is topsy turvy non-conventional…. particularly when the Raydes look like a strong dog in the Buffalo slog and the Jets are causing some turbulence over thte roof of AT&T…it’s the first day of the Jewish New Year, and pay heed to the September arrivals of some pretty impactful guys, like Marino, Jimbo, and ?
Well-read rides the tide of yet another, naughtily good back door cover, ChabDog insists he’s still here, Dorothy continues to think of St. George-Brown all about town, and Abe is chained to a pole in the cellar eating baloney and mayo sandiwiches, … but could a change be blowing in the wind. And our best for Aaron, who is off today like Koufax in the World Series (65?)
Another week, another blog about my shitty NFL picks. Especially since I went 6 & 16, but come on, the Chiefs taking an L, the Bills taking an L against the Zach Wilson Jets, and the Chargers taking an L to a hurt Dolphins team at home is nothing I could predict in my shitty crystal ball. I know that doesn’t sound like my Week 2 picks will be amazing, but at least I now have some perspective of the teams in their regular season form (less shitty crystal ball). So let’s try this again.
NFL WEEK 1 RESULTS
OFFICIAL CHABDOG SPORTS NFL WEEK 2 SPREAD
VIKINGS: The Vikings may lose this game but not by 7 points. Show some damn heart Vikings, especially since Kirk Cousins, a Justin Jefferson had better Week 1 numbies than their counterparts.PACKERS: I got this pick right last week, and are favored to win against the Falcons. Packers either lose this gamer or beat the Falcons by more than 2 points. My money is on beating the Falcons. Hold up boys and let Jordan Love cook (my proven Packers motto).
RAIDERS: The Bills are pissed, but the Raiders are not the New York Jets. That means that the Bills are not going to slaughter the Raiders, especially after last week’s performance against Zach Wilson. I expect the game to run a little tighter than 9 1/2 points.
BENGALS: The Ravens played Houston (an easy team) and the Bengals played a much tougher opponent. So looking at Week 1’s number the Ravens look better on paper. But again we find ourselves with Lamar Jackson playing QB/RB with the Bengals having Joe Mixon (RB) and Ja’marr Chase (WR) to mix it up at home. Also, let’s add that Joe Burrow is pissed off from losing against the Browns and needs to come out strong here in front of the homestand.
LIONS: The Seahawks played like shit last week and are coming up against the Lions who have the offensive numbies to beat the Seahawks. Additionally, the Seahawks are also defensively bad which could mean the Lions destroy the Hawks at home. If you’re a Seahawks fan, I suggest you start looking forward to the Seattle Kraken season, because that will be far less disappointing than what is to come. Although you may get Shohei Ohtani in Mariners uni…may.
JAGUARS: I don’t know what is going on with the Chiefs but most people I know are picking them simply because it’s the Chiefs, they’re pissed for taking an L, and they’re the former Superbowl Champs. But the Jags put up some really good numbies last week (way better than the Chiefs) and have a chance of actually beating them if they repeat the performance. the math says that the Jags are not bad team, and should be able to keep pace with the Chiefs…if so, all I can say is that it’s a great time to be a Jags fan.
BUCS: The Bears lost
to the Jordan Love Packers at home. Hard to see the Bears beating the Bucs, especially in the Bucs pirate ship (and at their home port).
CHARGERS: The Chargers losing to a hurt Dolphins team is just sad. The Titans not being able to produce against the Saints is also bad. Tannehill having a few interceptions in his last game is also bad. I feel like these two teams can make enough mistakes for either team to ultimately win in this game, but the maths says that the Titans will make more.
CARDINALS: The Giants are an absolute disaster. Considering the Giants haven’t actually scored a touchdown or field goal this season, it is hard for me to say that they’ll beat the Cardinals (or anybody) by 5 1/2 points.
RAMS: The Rams are back and the 49rs are good. I expect the Rams to keep it closer than 8 points here. If this was a moneyline pick I would place that bet on the 49rs.
COWBOYS: The heavily favored Cowboys are favored because they slaughtered the Giants 40 to 0. I am going to say that the Zach Wilson Jets are better than the Giants, but are probably going to get plowed by the Cowboys (but not as bad as the Giants).
COMMANDERS: The Broncos have proven that they can be beaten at home. Both of these teams look pretty even on paper and is a game that could have multiple lead changes. Ultimately it will come down to Russel Wilson playing like shit (hopefully) and the Commanders beating them out slightly to cover the spread.
DOLPHINS: If a hurt Dolphins team can beat the Chargers, a less hurt Dolphins team can beat the Patriots.
SAINTS: I like the Derek Carr Saints. I also like that he’s a slightly better QB than Bryce Young. The “numbies” show that the Saints are slightly better than the Panthers, and my internal pendulum is swinging for the Saints to beat the Panthers by 3 points.
BROWNS: I was the only one who picked the Browns last week, and I was the only one who won that pick. The Browns have a lot of offensive “numbies” and the Steelers have really bad defensive “numbies”. The Browns have all the better stats and a great running back. Everything is SCREAMING Browns for Monday night.
THE SHIT GAME OF THE WEEK
COLTS: How nice we get to see two shitty teams play each other with a one-point spread. I am picking the Colts simply because they actually did something offensively (even though they lost) than the Texans. If you’re a fan of either team, sorry
| | @darthvaber99
Counterfeit Bills wilt when Josh Allen throws caution and good sense to the Metlife winds, while the Jets forget to feel sorry for themselves, … and just get even.
What a defense on display for Gang Green, and one helluva study in determination and fortitude by a squad that had been written off for dead after the Aaron exited.
And as ChabDognosticated, there’s just something wrong with Buffalo. Their star QB walking the sidelines alone, muttering to himself with a vacant, lost look, which you could also see on the face of Diggs after the game. Allen needs to rededicate himself to his craft, and spend more time studying game film, defensive tendencies and schemes, and less time doing DirecTV spots. The Bills defense also has plenty of holes, and overall, these guys and their wrestling coach are not Super Bowl contenders.
— Match made in heaven … or in hell given he’s with the silver and black … but no doubt about it, the uniform fits, and rumor has it Jimmy GQ’s been found from time to time on an impromptu after-hours search of The Strip.
— They call him… Dr. Love… and maybe he does have the cure the Packers are thinking of….
–The Boyz weren’t the ones wearing the junior jock straps in tonight’s prime time fiasco.
Little Blue lays a big egg, and the only reason the Giants aren’t limping home with their tails between
their legs is that they were already home.
–Wee-hawks shrink from the moment, getting torched by studly Stafford and his two new “go to’s” Puka and Tutu.
Say what?
–Chargers continue to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, despite moving the ball very efficiently through Herbie’s arm and Austin’s churning legs. Trouble was Tyreek, who was open so much today, it felt like all week.
–Ravens pick apart the Texans with a strong 2nd half, but the kicker in the teeth is that J.K. is not ok.
–Eagles recover from their Superbowl hangover, and survive a very passive aggressive finish at Gillette.
But there are signs that hope should spring eternal this year for the Patriots.
–Commanders finally take command, just in the nick of tune, and
given their history of blowing sure things at home, without rhyme or reason.
–Steelers start, once again, completely behind the eight ball, as in the Niners taking the wrecking ball to them
in all aspects in what can only be categorized as a nightmare of a home opener.
–Barroom brawl in The Big Easy goes to the black ‘n tan; but give the Ti-tans their props
for making the homies sweat and get pretty queasy… but not much has changed from last year, these two are
decidedly lacking in firepower.
–Baker remembers how to be a touchdown maker, and the Vikings return to their soft roots … last seen in last year’s playoff exit. Soft.
–Jags hit a few snags, but still showed the physcial prowess to shut down the Colts when it mattered.
The era of A. Richardson begins with a muted ovation and tempered elation.
Other lessons learned from Week 2 of NCAA —
— Alabama has a running back (or something resembling one) playing QB and that’s a problem
— Miami is suddenly money, and maybe that’s due to the deep pockets of their boosters
— San Diego St. look great, but played like overheated dog meat, in their spooky black unis
— Maybe Wisconsin and Washington State should exchange conference memberships
— App. St. got paid to play in North Carolina, and it almost became pretty darn expensive for the Tar Heels
National Cupcake Day isn’t December 15th this year,… no it was today, and here’s a ChabDogian recap of some of the tastiest ones in Week 2 of College Football —
— A pack of Trojans were seen continuously relieving themselves in public against some unprotected and helpless trees from Norcal
— Ball St. gets castrated right in front of a totally disinterest Uga
— The boys from Youngstown State should have stayed in Boys Town
— Not even Joe Flacco from 2013 could’ve saved the Blue Hens from the predators from Penn St.
— K-St. destroyed Troy at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium, and a woman wasn’t even involved
— The “Big Red” nebbishes from Nebraska were humiliated by Colorado and a guy named “She”…. that’s all you need to know about how far they’ve fallen
— After leaving Duke covered in puke, Clemson’s crew was only too happy to indulge in the Charleston chew
— No surprise that even though they were Wolverines without a Harbaugh, Michigan pretty much squashed the UNLV basketball team in the Big House
— It took way too long for UT to sit on Austin Peay
— Since when are the football Blue Devils not considered a cupcake. Since they played Lafayette, that when.
— No. 19 Oregon St. showed off at home against UC Davis, but it still isn’t apparently getting them the inside track to an escape route from Pac-12, 6 or 4 land
We’ve got everything you don’t need to know, and more, in our Week 1 “KC’s floundering, so who’ll grab the low hanging fruit” CDST Show …”
Who in their right mind really thought the mighty Chiefs would turn tail at home against the mighty Motown Lions? Hell, they’re so desperate for a possession receiver they would be claiming Flounder from Animal House off of waiver … if he were still alive and snatching.
ChabDog and friends, countrymen and co-hosts guide you through the mine field that is betting on the spread, along with clips and quips, though Freudian slips will be kept to a minimum how that Well-read has us on a very rigorous 1-hr clock.
Wouldn’t want to miss any of the 1 pm eastern/10 am pst action, including the Steelers shocking the world by making the Niners look not too purdy. And later in the day, one of us guaran-freaking-tees a JETS victory, cuz Josh Allen still has a bad case of the yips.
And we’ll also cram in a college football update (rest assured GA found a cupcake to castrate in Ball St.), as well as revealing Novak’s early acceptance letter to Med-ved school in tomorrow’s US Open final.
Notre Dame at NC State (something tells me the Wuffpack may have a chance)
Vandy at Wake (Southern Gents may be doing more than sipping mint julips)
Utes at the Baylor Bears (this test will help unearth whether Utah deserves its No. 12 ranking)
Big Red travel to play Colonel Sanders Hot Buffaloes (how can you possibly count on Nebraska’s nebbishes, in what used to be a big rivalry)
A&M vs. Miami in Collies vs. Convicts
Hawks take aim at Cyclones in Ames in the Battle of Iowa
Bama locks horns with the Horns and it’s a tight death spiral in Tuscaloosa
Producer Well Read here with some great news: it’s NFL football season! And with a new season comes some changes to our live show!
We start at 9:00 AM and end at 9:59 AM just in time for kickoff. Here’s our new format for the best pre-game show you’ve ever heard:
Red sun go down way over dirty town
Starlings are sweeping around crazy shoals
A girl is there high heeling across the square
Wind blows around in her hair and the flaqs upon the poles
Waiting in the crowd to cross at the light
She looks around to find a face she can like
Church bell clinging on trying to get a crowd for Evensong
Nobody cares to depend to depend upon the chime it plays
They’re all in the station praying for trains
Congregation late again
It’s getting darker all the time these flagpole days
Drunk old soldier he gives her a fright
He’s crazy lion howling for a fight
Strap hanging gunshot sound
Doors slamming on the overground
Starlings are tough but the lions are made of stone
Her evening paper is horror torn
But there’s hope later for Capricorns
Her lucky stars give her just enough to get her home
Then she’s reading about a swing to the right
But she’s thinking about a stranger in the night
I‘m thinking about the lions tonight
What happened to the lions
I’ll tell you what happened, bro
Dogged Dan had his blue and silver ready to a man,
when the 3rd quarter began
Yeah, those men were made of stone,
and in Q4 they carried the rock to the end zone
And no ring tone for Toney, who dropped the chance,
to be delivered by a horrified Mahomes
Andy panicked with three TOs
and the champs fell on their face in their own place
TALKIN BOUT THE LIONS…
Whassup Andy? Your guys clearly thought all you had to do to win was show up. And that was a fatal miscalculation.
KC’s receivers were in a word gar-bage, the pass defense was its usual handsy, sketchy self, and eventually the run defense was porous and unreliable. It was only some ill-timed fumbles and questionable play calling by the Lions’ OC (hello… you need to just run it with those backs on 3rd and 2) that kept the Chiefs sitting pretty, until the 4th quarter’s moment of truth, when the roof at Arrowhead caved in.
Will this thing turn around on a dime when talkative Travis returns, along with all-powerful Chris Jones? Probably not, given the weak crew of speed guys that the Big Red Tomato has at his disposal. And with that defense on the field, I guess Andy will keep going for it on 4th and 25 deep in his own end, with three timeouts. That mindless gamble was the final nail in the coffin, and is completely indefensible.
The next winner of the NFC Norris? TALKIN BOUT THE LIONS, BABY!
It’s that special time of year again when Chabdog Sports goes all in on football and every person on our team must once again prove that they can go over .500 or lose their job here like Squid Games. Of course, we don’t actually do that because we’re pretty chill SoCal people, but it would make for some good content…just saying. Anyways, every week our fabulous producer Well Read hands us the sheet below and we go up against the football gods, the oddsmakers, and our co-hosts to be crowned the 23-24 NFL season champion. Pretty straightforward, pick the most winning teams ATS. Since we can’t officially gamble on sports here in California, I still go into this as if I were in Vegas. Interestingly enough, I happen to be in Vegas this weekend so don’t be surprised if you find me at the sportsbook with an AMF in my hand. Again, I look at every matchup and imagine myself placing 20 bucks on each line here, so LFG.
CHIEFS – I know our spread here says 6.5 but that has actually gone down closer to 5. Either way, it’s difficult for me to see the Superbowl Champ Chiefs getting their asses handed to them by the Lions. If they do, it’s going to be a pretty big upset with a lot of memes showing up on the TL from now until Sunday.
FALCONS – I like this home-field advantage for the Falcons with a 3-point spread. I also don’t like how many questionable players the Panthers have or their super poopie pre-season.
RAVENS – LOL Texans
BROWNS – Although most people I know are leaning on the Bengals here, we also need to understand that Joe Burrow is coming off an injury and was carted off the field a little over a month ago. Because of this, I’m putting my 20 bucks on the Browns since my confidence that he’ll be A++ is low right now. Also helps that this is a home game for the Browns.
JAGUARS – This team had a great run this year (9-8), and might once again be king of the AFC South. So asking for 3.5 points doesn’t seem impossible to me against the Colts.
VIKINGS – Up until yesterday, I saw that Mike Evans was questionable for a groin issue. Glad he’ll get to play, and hope it’s not an issue since he’s off the list. However, we also have to accept that Justin Jefferson is elite and was the number-one pick in my fantasy league for a reason, and why I was able to get Josh Allen as my QB (I went second in the draft). Also, this is a home opener for them so I expect them to shine in front of their home crowd.
SAINTS – The Titans have the worst passing defense and Derek Carr has something to prove in New Orleans at his regular season debut. Saints to cover 3.5 points against the Titans.
STEELERS – Chabdog is a huge Steelers fan so I know he’ll be pleased with this pick. Aside from them having a nice pre-season, this is also going to be a home game for them. Purdy will be at the helm for the 49ers but they only have a 2.5 advantage. This tells me that a lot of football is expected to go the Steeler’s way, and being a new season, hopefully, this will energize them to capitalize on any mistake the 49ers make in this game.
COMMANDERS – Cardinals are a joke, and I expect the Commanders to win by at least 6 points at home. Also, according to Ceasars Sportsbook, the Commander’s Super Bowl odds are +8000 vs. +70000 for the Cardinals.
PACKERS – Jordan Love has something to prove, and is only a 2.5-point underdog (not bad). Also helps that they’re playing their rival Bears and Jordan would be considered a hero amongst Cheeseheads if he beats them at their own stadium on Sunday. Hold up, let’s see what an Aaron-less Packers team can cook.
BRONCOS – It’s always the mile-high advantage when you’re favored by 3.5 points at home. Excited to see what Sean Payton has cooking over there in Denver, but really want to see if he’s put a binkie in Russell Wilson’s mouth so he can start acting like a formidable QB.
CHARGERS – Dolphins are simply way more hurt than the Chargers who only need to cover a 2.5-point spread at home for the cash out in Vegas.
Week 1 Injury Report | Chargers vs. Dolphins
EAGLES – Last year the Eagles started extremely strong, and would be surprised if they didn’t come out of the gate with the same passion as last year in their home opener. Only need to beat the Pats by 4 points at home to cash this ticket out, and if they repeat what they did last year….it’s like taking an iPad from a baby.
SEAHAWKS – The Rams are just an ugly mess. Very poopie pre-season and no Cooper Kupp (WR). Seahawks to beat the Rams at home by more than 5.5 points.
GIANTS – It’s safe to assume that most people are probably picking the Cowboys considering their past stats with the Giants being in their favor. However, this Giants team is a little refreshed and has a few new players since they last faced each other such as Darren Waller (TE), Bobby Okereke (LB), Parris Campbell, and Jalin Hyatt (WR), John Michael Schmitz (C), and Deonte Banks and Tre Hawkins III (CB). Also, the Giants know that the Cowboys have a better record against them so coming out of the gate strong in front of their fans at home would be a great way for them to start their season and tip the scale. Considering this is just a 3-point spread, it’s safe to assume that the odd makers also consider the Giants a little more formidable against a team that has proven to have a better record against them.
BILLS – This MNF definitely goes in the LFG column! Aaron Rodgers debuting for the Jets against the Bills! A 1.5 point spread! A possible upset with the Jets beating the Bills and New Yorkers going hysterical! Here’s the thing, I don’t know if I would bet on this game because no one knows if Aaron is going to be a star or bust for the NY Jets. Since I have to pick a side here, I’m simply considering that the Bills are a great team that’s a little more familiar with each other to pull the advantage. Additionally, I’m also counting on that Aaron Rodgers isn’t Tom Brady who’s going to lead the Jets to a Superbowl victory in his first season with them and maybe show a few kinks in his armor in this game to tip 1.5 points. Again, I need to see him play a few games before I put money down on the Jets. But if we need to drop a coin…Bills.
| @darthvaber99
Watch ChabDog leap frog the competition in this year’s NFL pick’em action against the dreaded spread,
each week on ChabDog Sports Talk. After all, there has to be a sunset on the hegemony of Dorothy Dawn,
Blixx may be a no-show(?), Abe has been spending too much time at the track, Well-read’s already well-psyched out…
and AP Yorke is nobody’s Barstool fool, but may have lost his mojo with the melt down of the Oven Mets. 
NFL Week 1 is here so LFG! Currently have these picks up in our Chabdog Sports Pick’em Challenge and the great news is that you can join this free league too if you think my standard picks suck. So stop talking and start playing!
Chabdog Sports Pick’em Challenge Link: https://fantasy.espn.com/free-prize-games/sharer?from=espn&challengeId=230&context=GROUP_INVITE&edition=espn-en&groupId=bcd27e84-f3eb-4cb5-94ae-5caed7a9bbfd
| @darthvaber99
Whassup Walk This Way Kermit? Can you still walk that walk with no Kelce as your security blanket?
Here’s one dedicated detractor who hopes the Lions can stuff that inflated spread in the trash compactor.
Talking bout the Lions on Thursday night, and Chiefs who find themselves … in possible 
dire straits?
Talkin bout the the Lions.
Coco was all go go go, in making jittery Jelana total road kill in a 6-2, 6-0 wipe out.
Given the relative ease with which the American teen dispatched conqueror of the Polish potentate Swiatek in the previous round, the young American must be viewed as the odds on favorite to take the women’s title in Flushing. 
Wow, I cannot believe that I’m actually blogging on chabdog.com about NASCAR, but even more amazing…I’m actually here freaking blogging for Chabdog Sports! When I first started at Chabdog Sports back in February of 2021, we were strictly an audio-only podcast. Oh how far we’ve come in just a few years that I’ve been on the show considering we’re now on YouTube, we’ve got an ETSY store, and now here blogging like my good friends over at Barstool Sports. Although I’ve been on the show for a few years, I don’t think that many people actually know how I got here, why I’m hosting a racing segment or my role behind the scenes. I think it’s fair to assume that most people think I’m only here because my Gawdbrudder (coined by my Gawdfather Gary) is Frank Fleming, who was actually part of Chabdog Sports prior to joining Barstool Sports. I can say this, yes, my Gawdbrudder is Frank, but I also didn’t get a call to make a guest appearance here until 2021, and only because Chabdog Sports had been following me for a few years and had been super strong supporters of my X (Twitter) content (which I appreciated mucho considering I had a very tiny following back then). Even then, what was supposed to be a “guest spot” talking about my adventures with my Gawdbrudder quickly turned to talking about my favorite sports teams, and diving into various political issues. Interestingly enough, I was only slated for the first hour of the show and was asked to stay on for the second hour right before we cut to the break (who knows if I’d even be here right now if they had decided to send me on my way after the first hour). Considering this was the first time I was ever on air, I’m glad I was able to hang with the boys long enough for an encore, but you be the judge and have provided the link to my very first show here:
▶ The “Better Get Smart” Show (spreaker.com)
I can honestly say that I never really thought that coming on the show as a guest would lead me to host a racing segment or talk about NASCAR, but it turned out that Chabdog really liked NASCAR and was enthused to incorporate a racing segment into his show after talking to me. So on April 11, 2021, the Chabdog Racing Segment was born shortly after being on the show for a little over a month (with our signature intro song that we still roll with today). I’ve included a small clip of the very first time we rolled out the Chabdog Racing Segment:
Again, still funny that I landed a racing segment, considering most of my earliest shows were mainly discussing current political issues, my Mets fandom, how I became a cheesehead, Frank the Tank, and March Madness that was going on at the time. But at some point, in the first few shows I was on, my past about growing up with my step dad who was a professional go-kart racer (who watched a lot of NASCAR, Modified, Sprint, and Midget car racing on TV or at the track) came to light. And because of my stepdad, not only did I watch a lot of NASCAR myself, I also got to go with him and watch a lot of awesome short-track dirt races (some might argue that’s where real racecar racing is done)! Growing up in the NASCAR 90s, I always rooted for Jeff Gordon in his signature brightly-colored DuPont car (epic car). Not going to lie here, but Jeff Gordon was also a good driver to root for during this time since he was the Winston Cup Champion in 1995, 1997 & 1998. Still gets me, or maybe I can say, “I feel my age”, that I remember a time when Winston Cigarettes was a sponsor of something. Yet, what I still find hard to believe is that NASCAR, of ALL the things we talked about in my early days here at Chabdog Sports, is what really got Chabdog’s attention, but more importantly…excited to consider incorporating NASCAR into the show. So yeah, from never being on a radio talk show to hosting a racing segment in about a month’s time might actually rank up there as one of my greatest unexpected accomplishments in life, but also one that turned out to be really cool and fun. So thank you Chabdog for asking me to come onto the show, for asking me to stay on for the second hour, inviting me to the following week’s show…and the next…and the next. So I thought to myself that my first published blog here at Chabdog Sports be dedicated to my beginnings but also pay tribute to our racing segment that really sent me over the moon in making me a permanent fixture around here. So let’s end by saying that I’ve had a lot of firsts here at Chabdog Sports, from being invited to my first on-air show…to hosting a racing segment…to being on YouTube weekly…to now writing my first blog…so with that, let’s get ready to NASCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR!
X | IG : @darthvaber99
We made it! We survived another off-season. Football is back and so with it comes many rituals like the “pre-game” show. ChabDog is launching the best freaking pre-game show you’ve ever seen. The network shows all SUCK. I’m not telling you something you don’t already know. Getting good intel on winning bets doesn’t suck. Tune in every Sunday at 9:00 AM Pacific – Noon Eastern. We see things others don’t. Let us tell you about it. 
for putting this game behind a paywall
Phillies appear to be on a mission, while the Braves seemed a bit apathetic, without reservation.
