NFL Week 2 Preview and Predictions

Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has to be better than Peyton Manning to beat the Broncos on MNF. (Ed Zerga)

5. Dallas Cowboys (1-0) @ Seattle Seahawks (0-1) - 4:05 PM EST, FOX

These two teams have very different state of minds coming off Week 1. Not many gave the Cowboys a chance in the NFL season kickoff against the New York Giants. However, the Cowboys were definitely the better team in that matchup. They would like to build off that success at CenturyLink Field in Seattle. Expectations were growing for the Seahawks as a result of a strong preseason. Unfortunately, they struggled with consistency in a loss to the Arizona Cardinals. The Seahawks would like to put Week 1 behind them.

The Cowboys aired out quite a bit last week. Quarterback Tony Romo has a big play receiving corps that was surprisingly led by Kevin Ogletree, who caught eight passes for 114 yards and two touchdowns. Dez Bryant is another Cowboys wideout who is dangerous. The Seahawks will try and counteract the Cowboys passing game with their large secondary. They will try to use physical play at the line to disrupt the timing of the offense. The Seahawks need to establish the running game with Marshawn Lynch. This will help take the pressure off rookie quarterback Russell Wilson.

Prediction: Seahawks 23 Cowboys 20

4. Baltimore Ravens (1-0) @ Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) - 1:00 PM EST, CBS

While both these teams are 1-0, their wins over AFC North opponents came in very different ways. The Ravens obliterated the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football. Conversely, the Eagles struggled and had to come from behind to defeat the Cleveland Browns. What these two teams have in common is an offense centered on a dynamic, versatile running back.

The Eagles need LeSean McCoy to use his power and speed to help take pressure off quarterback Michael Vick. Vick had one of his worst games of his career throwing four interceptions. The Ravens offense is best when running back Ray Rice shines brightest. Last season, he led the team in rushing and receptions. Rice's value simply cannot be overlooked. As opposed to Vick, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is coming off one of the best games of his career.

Prediction: Ravens 31 Eagles 20

3. New York Jets (1-0) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) - 4:25 PM EST, CBS

In their Week 1 win, the Jets finally gave quarterback Mark Sanchez time to operate. His execution was excellent partially as a result. This all was rather surprising because the Jets offensive line struggled so badly during the regular season. The Steelers will undoubtedly look to test them again with their mixed blitzing packages. They played fairly well in Week 1, but simply couldn't overcome the superb play of Payton Manning.

The Steelers should benefit defensively from the debut of safety Ryan Clark. He will help stabilize pass protection and free up Troy Polamalu to play his style of football. Offensively, the Steelers might look to utilize quarterback Ben Roethlisberger more on first and second down. The Jets have a talented secondary to match up, but they should have their hands full in this one.

Prediction: Steelers 24 Jets 20

2. Detroit Lions (1-0) @ San Francisco 49ers (1-0) - 8:20 PM EST (Sunday), NBC

The Lions are just happy that they got the win in Week 1 after an unimpressive showing against the St. Louis Rams. Meanwhile, the 49ers came into Lambeau Field and dominated the Packers. The 49ers defense shut down Aaron Rodgers and the Packers offense. They will need to be just as good with Matthew Stafford and the Lions explosive offense coming to town.

The Lions offensive line is going to need to protect Stafford from the intimidating 49ers defense. When faced with pressure, Stafford becomes more likely to make mistakes and turn the ball over. While it hasn't been widely discussed, the 49ers offense got much better this offseason. The focal point is still Frank Gore, one of the best running backs in the league. They added wide receivers Mario Manningham and Randy Moss to give quarterback Alex Smith reliable targets.

Prediction: 49ers 31 Lions 20

1. Denver Broncos (1-0) @ Atlanta Falcons (1-0) - 8:30 PM EST (Monday), ESPN/WatchESPN

Last week, veteran quarterback Peyton Manning made his much anticipated return to football in his debut with the Broncos. He looked like he never left as he picked apart the Pittsburgh Steelers defense. The Falcons had an excellent first game as well as they came into Arrowhead Stadium and stomped the Kansas City Chiefs. They put up an impressive 40 points in one of the most hostile environments in the league.

It was a familiar sight to see Manning running his no-huddle, call his own play offense last week. What many people don't realize is that Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan likes to do the same thing. A crucial aspect of the Falcons chance of winning is the play of their offensive line. They must protect Ryan from the Broncos' Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil and open up running lanes for backs Michael Turner and Jacquizz Rodgers.

Prediction: Broncos 31 Falcons 27

College Football Week 3 Preview and Predictions

MSU running back Le'Veon Bell was stopped by Notre Dame last year, but this season he has been hard to slow down. (Gregory Shamus)

After a week of surprising upsets, the college football season has begun to take shape. This weekend should continue to be a grooming process of the cream of the crop. This is the preview and predictions for Week 3 of the college football season.

5. California @ #12 Ohio State - 12:00 PM EST, ABC

Last week, the PAC-12 put three big beatdowns on the Big Ten. This weekend California will look to keep the trend going as they travel to Columbus to take on Ohio State. The Golden Bears bounced back from opening loss to Nevada with a win over Southern Utah. Ohio State is 2-0 after having little trouble with Miami (OH) and Central Florida. If Cal is going to pull an upset, they are going to need a big game out of their two offensive stars, quarterback Zach Maynard and wide receiver Kennan Allen. Ohio State may need to rely on quarterback Braxton Miller to carry a heavier load with running backs Jordan Hall and Carlos Hyde battling injuries.

Prediction: Ohio State 27 California 17

4. Wake Forest @ #5 Florida State - 12:00 PM EST, ESPN/ESPN 3D

Florida State is a top-five team in the polls and has outscored two FCS opponents 124-3 to begin the season. Wake Forest will be their first real test of the season. In fact, the Demon Deacons have beaten the Seminoles in four of their last six matchups, including two of the last three in Tallahassee. One of the reasons that Florida State has put such big numbers is that quarterback EJ Manuel has yet to be sacked this season. Wake Forest will look to change that while being led by the reigning ACC defensive lineman of the week. In his first career start, defensive end Hasan Hazime had five tackles, a sack, two pass breakups and a forced fumble.  Offensively, the Demon Deacons will need big games out of their tandem of top receivers, Brandon Terry and Michael Campanaro.

Prediction: Florida State 31 Wake Forest 10

3. #2 USC @ #21 Stanford - 7:30 PM EST, FOX

While former Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck led his team past their rival, current USC quarterback Matt Barkley will look to return the favor. USC, one of the favorites in the BCS race, has looked up and down so far this season. The Trojans have yet to look consistent from start to finish. Stanford rebound from a soft showing against San Jose State with a pounding of Duke. The Cardinal will need running back Stepfan Taylor to step up and lead on offense. The big question mark for the Trojans might be their offensive line. Their pass protection must give Barkley time to operate.

Prediction: USC 34 Stanford 20

2. #18 Florida @ #23 Tennessee - 6:00 PM EST, ESPN/Watch ESPN

Tennessee is ranked for the first time in four seasons. To stay in the rankings, they will have to beat rival Florida for the first time since 2004. Tennessee quarterback Tyler Bray has brilliant in the Vols first two games. He leads a dynamic passing attack that features wide receivers Justin Hunter and Cordarrelle Patterson. The Volunteers will look to use their up-tempo, no-huddle offense to overwhelm the Gators. Conversely, Florida will look to control the ball to keep the Tennessee offense off the field. The Gators will focus on running the ball behind power back Mike Gillislee. Gillislee leads the SEC in rushing yards and tied for the lead in rushing touchdowns.

Prediction: Tennessee 28 Florida 24

1. #20 Notre Dame @ #10 Michigan State - 8:00 PM EST, ABC

Since many Big Ten favorites have stumbled early, Michigan State has emerged as the conference front runner. They now have to back that claim up with a primetime showdown with non-conference rival Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish dominated Navy in Ireland, but then looked shaky against Purdue last week. Everett Golson will get the start at quarterback, but Tommy Rees is waiting in the wings in case Golson struggles. Whoever is at quarterback will benefit from getting back running back Cierre Wood.

The Spartans offense will look for tail back Le'Von Bell to carry the load again. Bell has been an absolute beast (50 touches against Boise State) so far this season. Michigan State quarterback Andrew Maxwell has looked pretty good, but forced too many passes against Boise State, resulting in three interceptions. The Spartans also boast what is probably the best defensive end duo in the country with William Gholston and Marcus Rush. Defensively, the Fighting Irish will rely on the leadership of Manti Te'o, one of the best linebackers in the nation, to slow down Bell and the Spartan offense.

Prediction: Michigan State 21 Notre Dame 20

Phillies and Brewers Charging Into NL Wild Card Race

The Milwaukee Brewers' Norichika Aoki had a crucial double to help lift the Brewers to a 5-0 win over the Braves. (The Candian Press)

The Philadelphia Phillies have been disappointing all season. Underachieving meant that two of their best players, Hunter Pence and Shane Victorino, ended up being traded. The Phillies pitching staff has been pretty solid all season (as expected). What wasn't quite up to par yet was the lineup and bullpen. All of a sudden, both have gotten hot as of late.

Winners of five straight coming into Tuesday night's game at home against the Miami Marlins, the Phillies looked to build upon their recent success. The Phillies got off to a great start when they scored three runs in the first inning. On the mound, Phillies ace Roy Halladay unexpectedly struggled. Lasting 6 1/3 innings, he gave up five runs on seven hits and three walks.

In the bottom of the sixth inning, Phillies veteran shortstop Jimmy Rollins hit a two-run home run to increase their lead to 8-3. However, during the top of the seventh, the Marlins scored four runs to pull within one run, trailing 8-7. In the bottom half of the inning, Rollins hit a sacrifice fly to score an insurance run.

The lead was handed over to the Phillies' spotty bullpen. With the two-run lead in place, their relievers began pitching quite well. B.J. Rosenburg and Phillippe Aumont kept the lead intact, earning both of them their second hold of the season. In the ninth inning, Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon threw a scoreless inning to seal the team's 9-7 victory.

Coming off a 4-1 win over the Atlanta Braves the previous night, the Milwaukee Brewers looked to keep their winning going at home Tuesday. Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks got the scoring started with a solo shot to center for the 1-0 lead. That is all the offense that starting pitcher Marco Estrada got while he was pitching. As it turned out, that proved to be enough as Estrada threw scoreless baseball into the seventh inning.

In the bottom of the seventh, Braves starting pitcher Tim Hudson hit Brewers center fielder Carlos Gomez with a pitch to load the bases. Then, shortstop Jean Segura grounded into a fielder's choice for the second out as one run came into score. The next batter was pinch hitter Taylor Greene, who hit an RBI-single to center field. Right fielder Norichika Aoki capped off the big inning with a RBI-double. When it was all said and done, the Brewers had scored three runs to take a 4-0 lead.

In the bottom of the eighth inning, the Brewers cushioned their lead a little bit more on a solo home run by third baseman Aramis Ramirez. As far as the bullpen was concerned, relievers Jim Henderson, Francisco Rodriguez, and Brandon Kintzler pitched the final 2 1/3 innings to complete the 5-0 shutout.

The NL Wild Card race is wide open. With the Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and St. Louis Cardinals all struggling in the thick of the race, teams like the Phillies and Brewers have come out of nowhere to join the playoff picture. As a result of their wins tonight, both the Phillies and Brewers now have a 71-71 record and stand four games out of the second wild card spot.

If you had told me during the summer that the Phillies and Brewers would be in the playoff hunt in September, I would have said you were crazy. However, this is baseball, and it always seems as though anything is possible. While some things are more likely than others, it is nearly impossible to predict what will really happen. It will surely be an exciting race to the end in the National League.

Andy Murray Outlasts Novak Djokovic to Win U.S. Open

Andy Murray outlasted Novak Djokovic to win the U.S. Open final and his first Grand Slam title. (Robert Sabo)

When Andy Murray won Olympic gold for the host nation, a sense of relief alleviated the pressures of not winning "the big one." However, he had still never won a Grand Slam. After defeating Tomas Berdych in the U.S. Open semifinal, Murray earned a spot in his fifth Grand Slam final. His opponent was reigning U.S. Open champion Novak Djokovic.

History was not on Murray's side. No British man had won the U.S. Open since Fred Perry did 76 years ago in 1936. That didn't phase Murray though because he had to overcome his own personal drought if he was going to make history. His task wouldn't be easy against the always tough Djokovic.

The final between Murray and Djokovic quickly turned into a battle of will as much as skill. Their first-set tiebreaker lasted 22 points, setting a tournament record. As if that weren't enough, the duo also battled out points that last 10, 20, 30, and even 55 strokes. Murray took the first two sets of the match, 7-6, 7-5, to take a commanding lead.

Djovokic wouldn't go down easily though. He came back with sets of 6-2 and 6-3 to force the decisive fifth set. Despite the fact that Djokovic had won eight consecutive five-set matches, he was the one that looked to tire first in the final set. Murray was on the verge of victory when he broke Djokovic's serve to lead 5-2.

When Djokovic's return of the match point went long, Murray crouched and covered his mouth with both hands. He took off his shoes and painfully walked to center court. Djokovic met him and congratulated him on his effort with an embrace. Murray had outlasted Djokovic in an epic battle that lasted 4 hours and 54 minutes, tying the record for the longest Open final. The Grand Slam title is not only significant for Murray, but for British tennis as a whole. The nation prides itself on the sport. Now, they might finally have a man who can be one of the best in the world once again.

Robert Griffin III Shines in Debut as Redskins Upset the Saints

In his NFL debut, Redskins rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III totaled 362 total yards and two touchdowns. (Bill Haber) 

When the Washington Redskins traded three first round and one second round pick to the St. Louis Rams for the #2 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, there were those who wondered if they had given up too much to pick former Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III. Griffin was a phenomenal athlete. There was no denying that. People just wondered if he had the skills necessary to succeed at the top level as a passer.

Griffin did what he could to put those doubts to rest in his NFL debut. The task would not be easy as the Redskins had to travel to the Superdome to play an angry New Orleans Saints team. In the first quarter, Griffin made the first big play of his career. Dropped back to pass, he threw it to new Redskins receiver Pierre Garcon on the slant. Garcon's burst of speed carried him 88 yards all the way to the endzone.

With Griffin at the helm, the Redskins offense was the model of consistency. In each of the four quarters, they had one drive that ended in a touchdown and another one that ended in a made field goal. When you literally average ten points a quarter, your odds of winning increase significantly. With 7:10 left in the third quarter, the Redskins lead grew to its largest at 30-14. The Saints did pull to within eight points on a two-yard touchdown catch by running back Darren Sproles. But with only 2:25 remaining in the game, it was too little, too late for the Saints.

While the Redskins played excellent as a team, there was no denying that Griffin's performance shined brightest of all. The rookie quarterback finished with 320 passing yards and two touchdowns. He also added 42 rushing yards on the ground. The numbers don't do justice to how well and consistently he played.

The Redskins defense may have been the most impressed with Griffin of all. Nose tackle Barry Cofield stated, "He's captivating. I'm always watching that kid, all week in practice. You can't help but watch him." If you consider the quarterback play the Redskins have had the last several seasons, it makes sense why they are so excited about Griffin's play. Veteran linebacker London Fletcher added, "From our standpoint, defensively, he's a sight for sore eyes."

Expectations were relatively low for the Redskins coming into the season. That all changes now. They now have a dynamic playmaker at the most critical position. Griffin's confidence and composure seem to have him on the brink of major things. When asked about it, Garcon described it as, "This is a very difficult place to play and run your offense The crowd noise, the emotion all working against you. But he just gives you so much confidence that he's got it under control."

That's a sign of something special right there. When veterans are openly impressed by the play and confidence of a rookie, there's something special going on. Griffin and the Redskins will look to build upon this impressive performance next Sunday afternoon when they travel to St. Louis to take on the Rams. Griffin appears to be on the verge of extraordinary things. It will be exciting to watch him strive for them.

NFL Week 1 Preview & Predictions

Peyton Manning is set to make his Denver Broncos debut against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football. (Justin Edmonds)

Since I have had a super busy week, I am only giving a very brief preview before my predictions. Additionally, since this is this Week 1, I will do all the games. After this week, I will focus on giving more in-depth previews of the five best games each week.

Indianapolis Colts @ Chicago Bears - 1:00 PM EST, CBS

Everyone will of course be focusing on the NFL debut of Colts rookie quarterback Andrew Luck, but it is also Bears quarterback Jay Cutler's debut since suffering an injury midway through last season. Luck will benefit greatly if his defense is able to play well in his support. The Bears have also added wide receiver Brandon Marshall to an offense that already features running back Matt Forte.

Prediction: Bears 27 Colts 17

Philadelphia Eagles @ Cleveland Browns - 1:00 PM EST, FOX

Expectations are high for the Eagles once again, so they must get off to a good start in Week 1. It will greatly help banged up quarterback Michael Vick if LeSean McCoy can get his touches and have a big game. The Browns are debuting a rookie quarterback as well, 28-year-old Brandon Weeden from Oklahoma State. Fellow rookie running back Trent Richardson is expected to play after missing time in the preseason with a knee injury.

Prediction: Eagles 27 Browns 13

St. Louis Rams @ Detroit Lions - 1:00 PM EST, FOX

The most integral part of the Rams offense might be their offensive line. They must give quarterback Sam Bradford the time to throw and open up lanes for running back Steven Jackson. The Rams secondary will have their hands full as well. The Lions offense will be even more pass heavy with running back Jahvid Best out. With the likes of quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson, the Lions should be just fine offensively.

Prediction: Lions 31 Rams 13

New England Patriots @ Tennessee Titans - 1:00 PM EST, CBS

Bill Belicheck will have his Patriots masterfully prepared for another season. While many of the leading faces have stayed the same, the Patriots have added some youth and versatility, especially on defense. Expectations are high for rookie defensive end Chandler Jones and linebacker Dont'a Hightower. The Titans will need a big game out of star running back Chris Johnson to help slow down the Patriots and to take pressure off young quarterback Jake Locker.

Prediction: Patriots 34 Titans 20

Atlanta Falcons @ Kansas City Chiefs - 1:00 PM EST, FOX

The Falcons offense has become one of the most dangerous and diversified ones in the league. Quarterback Matt Ryan has a stable of quality wide receivers (Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Harry Douglas) and running backs (Michael Turner, Jason Snelling, and Jacquizz Rodgers). The Chiefs always seem to be on the brink of great things, but just don't have what it takes to get over the top. Unfortunately for the Chiefs, I don't believe they added enough to make a difference this season.

Predictions: Falcons 31 Chiefs 17

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Minnesota Vikings - 1:00 PM EST, CBS

The Jaguars are still in search of their identity. While star running back Maurice Jones-Drew was holding out for a new contract, they struggled in the preseason. The offensive line must give young quarterback Blaine Gabbert time to throw to his receivers, especially talented rookie Justin Blackmon. The Vikings are a much improved football team from last season. Young quarterback Christian Ponder has continued to grow and mature. Even if they are without star running back Adrian Peterson, who is  a game-time decision, I believe they have enough offense to get the job done.

Prediction: Vikings 20 Jaguars 16

Washington Redskins @ New Orleans Saints - 1:00 PM EST, FOX

The big story for the Redskins is the debut of versatile rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III. Griffin has all of the tools to be an excellent quarterback in the league. What remains to be seen is how long it will take for him to smoothly transition into the NFL. This is a big game for the Saints as well. They are looking to put the bounty scandal behind them for good. Playing well in Week 1 is a great way to go about this.

Prediction: Saints 31 Redskins 17

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets - 1:00 PM EST, CBS

The Bills look to build upon last season's success. One crucial aspect of that is the diversification of their offense. Running back duo Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller's hard rushing opens up the door for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick's passing and vice versa. The Jets added more talent, but it hasn't necessarily manifested itself on the field yet. Quarterbacks Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow have the opportunity to work well with and benefit each other greatly. They just need to spend time working out the wrinkles.

Prediction: Bills 17 Jets 16

Miami Dolphins @ Houston Texans - 1:00 PM EST, CBS

The Dolphins are a young team that still needs to develop and mold together. Rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill will have to be on his toes against a dangerous Texans defense. Running back Reggie Bush adds a diverse element to the Dolphins offense, but isn't the consistent every down back that Tannehill needs. The Texans offense is of course explosive with quarterback Matt Schaub, running back Arian Foster, and wide receiver Andre Johnson. However, it might be the Texans defense that is even better this season. Many of the same faces are returning, but the unit should also benefit from the addition of new players, such as rookie linebacker Whitney Mercilus.

Prediction: Texans 34 Dolphins 10

Late games will be added soon.