This was a week of some crazy storylines in the NFL. Now while Scott Green's horrendous call causing a $66 million swing in betting on the Steelers/Bolts game doesn't quite match up to a worm-eating freak who carries a clock, this weekend still brought back my childhood (and subsequently, college-hood) memories of that great non-sport: Professional Wrestling.

1. Do You Smell What the Rock is Cooking?
The Sunday Night Football game on NBC brought us a crappy performance by the Cowpokes matched by an even crappier performance by the Portises, er, Redskins. For much of the first half of this yawn-fest, the Skins led 7-0. But Dallas , arguably, caught a break on what appeared to be a fantastic punt by Ryan Plackemeier. The ball nestled at the 1-yard line, and did not appear to be moving from that spot. Yet, out of nowhere, Rock Cartwright bolted onto the scene to down the ball. Unfortunately for the Redskins, the Rock's overzealousness caused his "roody poo, candy ass" to be in contact with the goal line at the moment he downed the football, resulting in a touchback. Could Dallas have scored the equalizing TD on a 99-yard drive instead of an 80-yard drive? Possibly, but starting out of your own endzone is always a daunting task.
2. The Mega Powers
You know how the classic tag team match goes in pro wrestling. The match starts off fairly even, or possibly in favor of the good guys a?? but then the heels take control. The good guys start to get pummeled a little bit. For a few quarters of the Titans and Jags game on Sunday, Titans fans saw this playing out. The Jaguars were beating the undefeated Titans 14-3 at half time thanks to 2 MJD touchdowns. It looked as though the Jaguars had figured out that vaunted Tennessee defense. But Jack Del Rio's boys forgot one thing a?? like true champions, Jeff Fisher and Kerry Collins say their prayers, eat their vitamins, and kick some ass! Collins came out after the break and threw 3 touchdown passes, and the Tennessee D stepped up, helping guide this season's mega powers to a 24-14 win and a 10-0 record.
3. The Power of the Warrior!!!
Sometimes people will say something that will leave you scratching your head. That "something" could be a crazy white man, hopped up on steroids with paint on his face, saying "Dig your claws into my organs!! Stretch into my tendons!! Bury your angers into my bones, for the power of the Warrior will always prevaiilllll!!!" Or, it could be a 10-year veteran NFL quarterback saying that he didn't know the NFL rulebook allowed for ties. Yes, I know a more renowned blog (*cough*PFT*cough*) has already beaten Donovan McNabb's gaffe into submission a?? but I can't let this go. It's inexcusable for a veteran QB who has been to multiple Pro Bowls, to the Super Bowl, and eaten thousands of cans of Chunky's Chicken Noodle Soup to be that dense as to the rules and regulations of his profession. Perhaps years of hearing nothing other than "throw the screen pass" from Andy Reid have had the same affect on McNabb's brain than the 'roids had on the Warrior's grape-nuts.
4. This is Where the Power Lies ... Brotherrrrrrr!!!

Okay, okay. So the '49ers and Cardinals are not powerful groups (especially the '49ers), nor do they represent evil (except for the Bidwell's wallet). However, for thousands of Rams fans from the glory years of the late 1990's and early 2000's, three of the greatest heroes were Kurt Warner, Isaac Bruce and Mike Martz. They were three of the integral parts of the "Greatest Show on Turf." Now, in two of the past three weeks, these three have faced their former team, and have shattered the hearts of their ex-fans. In week 9, Kurt Warner took his Cards into St. Louis and dismantled his ex-team in front of the same fans who cheered him to two MVP awards. This past weekend, Bruce and Martz thrashed their ex-team ... at least they had the decency to do it in San Francisco. This trend of former beloved players returning to face against their old teams and old fans is nothing new ... but for that 16 year old kid, who 7 years ago screamed from the stands wearing a blue and gold #80 jersey, it will always hard to be difficult to cheer against his former idol ... even if that player is now on the dark side.

How will Tony Romo and Matt Hasselbeck fare on their returns?Which away team needs to win in the worst way today?How many points will Carolina put up on Detroit?Can Sage Rosenfels forget the helicopter fumble six from the last time he played Indy?Will the Titans still be undefeated after today?

The college basketball season has begun (barely), but something's missing a?? the PHSports preseason NCAA tournament bracket projections.

Make no mistake about it. The North Carolina Tar Heels are the team to beat this season. Despite injuries early on, Tyler Hansbrough's injury is not of the long-term variety. Who's the best among the rest? Try UCLA, Texas, Duke, Tennessee and The Big East Conference.

Yes, I went there. In past seasons, the Big East has struggled to get the elusive 9th bid from its conference. Not only will the conference earn all nine bids, they boast three of the nation's best eight teams. While some love Pittsburgh and Notre Dame, I favor the teams of Calhoun and Pitino.

Among the sleeper conferences, look no further than the Western time zone. The Mountain West (UNLV, San Diego State, BYU, Utah) and the West Coast Conferences (Gonzaga, St. Mary's, San Diego) are this year's Atlantic 10. That said, this will not be a big year for the mid-majors as some of the nation's best mid-major programs lost players (to graduation, of course).

Let the basketball begin! If you have any questions, comments, or just wish to send a shout, shoot me a line at phashemi@gmail.com.

The Seedings
1: North Carolina, UConn (Big East), UCLA (PAC-10), Louisville
2: Texas (Big XII), Pittsburgh, Duke (ACC), Tennessee
3: Notre Dame, Purdue (Big Ten), Oklahoma, Gonzaga (WCC)
4: Memphis (C-USA), Marquette, Arizona State, Florida (SEC)
5: Michigan State, Miami-FL, Kansas, USC
6: Georgetown, Ohio State, Villanova, St. Mary's
7: Clemson, Xavier, Syracuse, Kentucky
8: Creighton (MVC), Baylor, Wake Forest, UNLV (Mountain West)
9: West Virginia, Wisconsin, UAB, Oklahoma State
10: Washington, San Diego State, Davidson (Southern), Vanderbilt
11: Nevada (WAC), LSU, VCU (CAA), Virginia Tech
12: BYU, Washington State, St. Joseph's, Ole Miss
13: Cleveland State (Horizon), Western Michigan (MAC), Siena (Metro Atlantic), Oakland (Summit)
14: American (Patriot), Vermont (America East), Stephen F. Austin (Southland), Portland State (Big Sky)
15: Cornell (Ivy), South Alabama (Sun Belt), Belmont (Atlantic Sun), Cal State Northridge (Big West)
16: Winthrop (Big South), Delaware State (MEAC), Murray State (Ohio Valley), Mount St. Mary's (Northeast), Jackson State (SWAC)

Last Four In: BYU, Washington State, St. Joseph's, Ole Miss
Last Four Out: Missouri, San Diego, Arizona, Temple
Next Four Out: Minnesota, Providence, Alabama, UtahSeeding Summary (Multi-Bid Conferences Only in Order of Percentage)Big East: 9/16
ACC: 6/12
SEC: 6/12
Pac-10: 5/10
Big XII: 5/12
Big Ten: 4/11
Mountain West: 3/9
West Coast: 2/8
C-USA: 2/12
A-10: 2/14

...sans intro...

NFL Picks: 28-16 [Of all the games to get wrong, I'm happiest it was a 47-3 victory for the Jets.]
Upset Specials: 7-7 [It's the return of the...oh wait...no way...he didn't just say, what I think he did, did he?]


While you won't find any New England/NY Jets talk...I will mention one key name you'd never expect. Jet LB David Bowens has mighty shoes to fill behind Kris Jenkins with David Harris still injured and out of the lineup. This is an unknown X-factor to the "press".
Credit: Flckr.com

Arizona @ Seattle (+3)
If Arizona had lost Monday night, this game would've taken on a whole new level of interest. Instead, greedy fantasy owners feast off of the Cardinals while Matt Hasselbeck returns as the starting QB...but for how long? Cards win, by much more than 3 in not-so-tough Seattle.

Tennessee @ Jacksonville (+3)
Jacksonville is 4-5 and definitely can't afford 6 losses after 10 decisions. Meanwhile, Tennessee aired it out last week and won in Chicago. With another tough road test, I have to wonder if 10-0 is in their future? Yes. Why? Titans can stop the run. Jags can't win without it.

San Diego @ Pittsburgh (-4 1/2)
Rivers' stats are overinflated this season. This game is in Pittsburgh and the Stillers aren't losing back-to-back there. Their O-Line better beat up on a banged up Charger D. The real key in Pittsburgh is the health of "Fast Willie" and whether or not Santonio Holmes can be at least mildly productive this weekend. The Steelers - as well as a few fantasy owners - need that desperately.

Minnesota @ Tampa Bay (-3 1/2)
The 1/2 scares me; however, this game means way too much in both the NFC South, NFC North, and NFC Wild-Card. While APete is my #2 in the MVP-race (behind Warner), the Bucs D is rested and their offense should have a healthy Joey Galloway, Warrick Dunn, and even word of Cadillac Williams getting carries. I'm taking the home team to frustrated Frerotte into a pick-six (or two) and a vastly important home victory...somehow.

Upset Special #1
Dallas @ Washington (+2)
Most books won't take bets because of injury concerns to Romo (returning) and Portis (50/50) so early in the week. Not me. The Cowboys have too many new faces returning (Romo, Newman, & Jones) for me to pick them on the road. However, a win equals 6-4 and makes the NFC more wide open than ever. Interesting, if nothing else.

Upset Special #2
Denver @ Atlanta (-6)
Who would've ever imagined this number in Week 10 at the beginning of the season? NOBODY. While Jay Cutler may break down carrying this team, I don't want to give the Falcons too easy a road to 7-3. I imagine this being a FG type game. Extra interesting with new-kid Prater battling Bronco-vet Jason Elam. While I like the Falcons, I don't by 6.

Top Ten Fantasy Insights of the Week...You Didn't Expect
1) Depending on wideouts - even your Andre Johnson and Brandon Marshall types - isn't safe come fantasy playoff stretch run.
2) Larry Johnson...avoid starting him this or any week.
3) Thomas Jones isn't going to have another 40-point week, but he's a weekly start now.
4) There's still enough upside to start guys like Steve Breaston.
5) Tony Gonzalez may quietly be this season's highest scoring tight end.
6) Defenses can win fantasy championships. Seriously.
7) Marvin Harrison just might be done.

Oh yeah, three NFL Thoughts to finish out the top 10.

8) Atlanta is going to make the playoffs.
9) So is Baltimore.
10) One of the above teams won't...obviously.

Until next time!

1) Kurt Warner for MVP
I know it was just two weeks ago I was plugging Clinton Portis for MVP (who will play against Dallas, I guarantee it); however, the NFL is fickle beyond fickle. While CP still has the award well within his sights, two names have emerged in recent weeks: Adrian Peterson and Kurt Warner. While APete's performance Sunday was magical, I'm sticking with the ressurected QB in the desert. Despite his team nearly blowing it (at home, no less) against the Niners, Warner's numbers, poise in the pocket, and leadership are exactly what the red birds need. Can you honestly predict this team would be anything better than 3-6 with Matt "Laguna Beach" Leinart at the helms? Me thinks not. If you're a stat geek, a 100+ QB rating and 19 TDs through 9 games should suffice, right?

2) Same Old Melody
Ever watched a Chargers game the past few years? More than likely, here's the script:
A) Play like *** in the 1st half.
B) Struggle to get going in the 3rd quarter.
C) LT and Gates wear on opponent - Rivers gets cheap TD tosses - and win the game late.
Yep, that's how the Chargers "do it". Problem is, they have a playoff script too:
A) Underachieve
B) Underachieve
C) Sit out injuries without trying to play
D) Miss kicks with a "Pro Bowl" kicker left and right (literally).
Must be fun to enjoy the weather out there, at least.

3) NFC (L)East
Philly fans can blame the following after last Sunday night's loss - dropping them to 0-3 in the NFC East - at home (while favored!) to the Giants:
A) McNabb's ridiculous inaccuracy
B) Andy Reid's generic-beyond-stale playcalling
C) Whatever was with Brian Westbrook
D) Assante Samuel's averageness
E) A stupid rule - but not call - with Eli Manning's "forward pass"
F) Ryan Howard
Why Ryan Howard? Because the Phillies obviously took away all the "big wins" for the season for the city. That's why.

4) For Real?
How "legit" do you consider the NFC South? Here's how I feel.
A) New Orleans is a walking dissapointment. Instead of just stinking - as in years past - they are the 'darling' of America come pre-season. In the end though, they can't win close games, Drew Brees turns the ball over a lot more than we think, and the Reggie Bush-situation hasn't ever really worked out.
B) Carolina is who we thought they were. They have a talented defense that isn't underachieving this season, Steve Smith is still one of the best (not the best) wideouts in football, and their running game is hot and cold from week to week.
C) Tampa Bay will always be under the radar; yet, I don't see them sneaking into the playoffs this year. John Gruden gets the most out of a roster at opposite ends of the spectrum age-wise.
D) Atlanta...well, they're the feel good story of the season. Props to head coach Mike Smith, rookie QB Matt Ryan, and phenomenal wideout Roddy White. I'm enjoying the ride, playoffs or not.

And you thought we would just "hit it and quit it" after last weekend, didn't you? Didn't you?
Not a chance.
In fact, we're back and making scrambled eggs for breakfast.

Now remembera€¦

-Any Division I-A team is eligible for at-large consideration. The BCS has never changed its automatic qualifiers -- the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the final standings; the champions of the Big East, Big Ten, Southeastern, Pac-10, Big 12 and Atlantic Coast Conferences; Notre Dame if it finishes in the top eight; and a non-BCS team that finishes in the top 12, or in the top 16 if they're ahead of a BCS champion.
-No more than two teams from any conference, no questions asked. (Sorry Big XII fans)
-No plus-one game either. However, with the addition of the "BCS Title Game"a€¦we at least have 10 teams and not 8 invited to the party.
-With that being said, we know the BCS gets released sometime late this afternoon/early evening on FOX.
-I don't particularly feel like "guessing" what that outcome will be. Instead, here's the PHSports Top Ten, followed by our BCS Bowl Projections. Don't worry; they're based on real-life standings and not our Top Ten. You can breathe now.

PHSports Top Ten Rankings:
1) (10-0) Alabama Crimson Tide
2) (10-0) Texas Tech Red Raiders
3) (8-1) Florida Gators
4) (9-1) Texas Longhorns
5) (9-1) Oklahoma Sooners
6) (8-1) USC Trojans
7) (10-0) Utah Utes
8) (9-0) Boise State Broncos
9) (8-2) Oklahoma State Cowboys
10) (9-1) Penn State Nittany Lions

On the Cusp: Ohio State, Missouri, UNC, Georgia, & Michigan State

BCS Bowl Projected Conference Champions: (as of today)
a€¦get ready for a laugha€¦

ACC -- Wake Forest
Big East -- West Virginia
Big Ten -- Michigan State
Big 12 -- Texas Tech
Pac-10 -- USC
SEC -- Alabama

Note: Wake Forest gets in b/c of its 4-2 ACC record and its tie-breaker over FSU. WVU gets the nod at 3-1 in the conference as it owns the only win between the two others at 3-1 (over Cincy, Pitt has played neither). Michigan State is tops in the Big Ten at 6-1 (Penn State, who plays the Spartans later this season, is 5-1).

Top At-Large Candidates:

Utah (highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
Florida
Texas
Boise State (second highest non-BCS automatic qualifier)
BYU (third highest non-BCS automatic qualifier...over TCU)
Penn State (owns a win @ Columbus and controls own Big Ten destiny)

Stop me if you've heard this before...

Of course, it's borderline crazy to predict "insert ACC team" in the ACC. However, the truth is that conference is only getting one team into the BCS. Ditto for the Big (L)East (same as last week). As for the SEC, LSU is done and Georgia really doesn't have any realistic path anymore. Bama and the Gators are on a collision course, both locked into the SEC Title game. The real interesting scenario is how a 2-loss Florida team would stack up in the projection-mess. Of course, I won't simply dismiss FSU giving the Gators a good game either. Nevertheless, the winner of the SEC Championship Game - assuming both win out - seems a lock to be in the national championship game. Key word: seems.

You also have to remember the "two per conference" rules with the stacked Big 12. Texas Tech still needs to overcome a trip to Norman against the Sooners, after winning two in a row after beating Texas & Oklahoma State (impressively, might I add) in Lubbock. Of course, that doesn't even cover the possibility of the Big XII Title game, which seems more and more likely to have Missouri and Chase Daniels representing the maligned Big XII North division.

As for the non-BCS schoolsa€¦

It's not too unlikely that Boise State goes undefeated and returns to the BCS. Utah passed its toughest test on Thursday nigth against TCU; however, they do host BYU later this month. If the Utes lose and the Broncos win out, they'll be the "outsider" getting in.

Both Utah and Boise State could end up in the top 7 or 8 of the BCS; however, the rules state that only one of these teams has to be chosen. Another one could be chosen for one of the "at-large" bids, yet does that seem likely? Boise State fans or Ohio State fans? Let me think.

How about this "BCS lineup": ...sans MEGA-POWERHOUSE Oklahoma (for now) might I add...

Orange Bowl:
Wake Forest Deamon Deacons vs. West Virginia Mountaineers

Sugar Bowl:
Texas Longhorns vs. Florida Gators

Fiesta Bowl:
Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Utah Utes

Note: Wouldn't it be all too ironic if the Fiesta - home to Boise State acclaim - actually did what was "right" and took Utah vs. Boise State. The ratings might be in the toilet...but I'd love it.

Rose Bowl:
USC Trojans vs. Michigan State Spartans

Note: Now the Rose Bowl gets its traditional Pac 10/Big 10 rivalry. The network is hoping my projections falter when Penn State defeats Michigan State at the end of their respective regular seasons.

BCS National Championship Game:
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders

Note: Remember, these aren't projections in the sense that I'm playing out every game. That's too easy and too risky. Instead, I'm trying to lay out the picture - as best as I can - as of today. If you don't like it...you don't like it.

There's much more on the radar; however, that's all I'm giving out today.
Hope you enjoyed the second-go-round.

Since the games have already started, you will be reading an adjusted version of the 5 NFL Questions ....
When will Rex Grossman throw his 1st pick six?With New Orleans down 11 late in the 1st half, will Brees throw for 200+ yards in the second half?Will the Pittsburgh O-Line be able to contain the edges against Freeney, Mathis & Co.?Will the Eagles try to establish the power running game against the blitz-happy Giants?Why on earth does Arizona and San Francisco have at least one nationally-televised game against each other every season?

Is there any chance any of my loyal "readers" get the inference in the title.

My desire for at least a "plus-one" game; since we know a playoff is TKO'd before the match has started.

Nevertheless...

#12. Ohio State vs. Northwestern
Don't look now, but the Wildcats are 7-2 (bowl eligible) and might be creeping their way into the talk of the Big Ten's "second-tier". While only the Spartans have a realistic Rose Bowl chance - outside of Penn State - the Wildcats just might be playing on New Year's Day if they can pull off their biggest upset in seemingly countless years.

#22. Georgia Tech vs. #19. North Carolina
The ACC is completely up for grabs (especially since Maryland lost to Tech, as expected) and now seemingly half the conference "controls" its BCS destiny. Scary though, right? Cavalier, Hokie, Hurricane, and Seminole fans will have a keen interest in this outcome out of Chapel Hill.

Kansas State vs. #13. Missouri
With the Big 12 South LOADED (Texas Tech, Texas, Oklahoma, & Oklahoma State), too many people have forgotten the Big XII title game is likely to pair up the winner of Kansas v. Missouri. Nevertheless, the Tigers need to start building momentum for that not-as-major-as-last-year showdown with the Jayhawks.

#21. California vs. #7. USC
So Pete Carroll now wants a playoff...shocker. The loss in Corvalis continues to sting while the Golden Bears can take driver's spot en route to the Rose Bowl with a road victory. Something tells me picking against the Trojans at home is a mistake.

#8. Oklahaoma State vs. #2. Texas Tech
Everyone is picking against Mike Leach, Graham Harrell, and Michael Crabtree. Except me. They're at home and there won't be a letdown. They may win in the closing seconds (although not like last week I bet); however, I think Texas Tech is one-week away from its first loss. Maybe.

...under the radar a bit...

#3. Penn State vs. Iowa
Am I calling an upset? NO! However, the Nittany Lions may only have one more "test" before an undefeated campaign (hello Michigan State!). I'm still a little interested in how they perform agaisnt the underachieving Hawkeyes on the road. I'm just saying...

Note: I know I didn't mention Alabama vs. LSU. Why? I'm tired of the SEC right now and tired of Nick Saban's drama. Even if he isn't pushing it.

Enjoy the games...

Double digits in weekends of NFL action this season and the end of byes as we know it.
Okay, the second is true next week.

Nevertheless, we roll on!

NFL Picks: 23-15 [Fuzzy math has gotta stop, Clement. Karl Rove's fingerprint on American politics is slowly being smudged away.]
Upset Specials: 6-7 [Yeah, we wisely avoid those last week.]
...back to the Sportsbook...

Buffalo @ New England (-3 1/2)
Belicheat won't allow his team not to execute in the 4th quarter two weeks in a row. Even if David Thomas was acting far from his coach's desires. Trent Edwards is not going to throw well on the road and Marshawn Lynch is non-existent as of late.

Tennessee @ Chicago (+3)
Screaming push? Not a chance. Titans go to 9-0. Why? Two words. Sexy Rexy.

New Orleans @ Atlanta (-1)
The Saints (Jags, too) are my fantasy enigma. I'm taking the home Falcons. Yeah, I said it.

St. Louis @ NY Jets (-9)
I usually don't pick the Jets. I'm fearing a letdown; however, it appears Action Jackson won't play. Jets win, but I won't take the 9.

Baltimore @ Houston (-1)
Joe Flacco is a beast. Well, at least for rookie QBs from the CAA. Right? Right. Oh yeah...Ravens road-W.

Upset Special (1 and only!)
NY Giants @ Philadelphia (-3)
Taking the G-Men straight up. Why? Two words. Justin Tuck.

Top Ten Fantasy Insights of the Week...You Didn't Expect
1) Nobody should ever call into local radio and ask if they should start Andre Johnson as one of their 3 wideouts. I heard it four times today and nearly puked by the end.
2) Lav Coles and Jericho Cotchery are not 50/50 options. Still start them.
3) Kurt Warner is likely the steal of your fantasy football draft. Check the numbers.
4) Where is that Colston guy in Nawlins?
5) Anybody who has Len Dale and CJ...start both of em and smile.
6) Joey Galloway will not be more than a lucky 1-week start all season long.
7) Don't go to nuts over Brady Quinn just yet.
8) Brandon Marshall is gonna wear down by Week 14.
9) Denver needs to make a trade for an RB. Oh wait, that deadline came and went a long time ago.
10) I'd still take Randy Moss over Santana Moss on my fantasy roster. I think.

Anything else, you think of!

Until next time...

[EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the second of a 3-pack of pre-season power rankings. Part I was posted yesterday and Part III will be posted sometime on Thursday. These power rankings will be used to determine draft order for our first NBA Mock Draft. Additionally, these rankings were done about two weeks; therefore, it does not factor certain injuries from a #1 overall pick from 2007.]

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Southwest Division
1. New Orleans
2. Houston
3. San Antonio
4. Dallas
5. Memphis

In what it was the toughest division in the NBA and possibly ever, the Southwest carries four stellar teams and a Memphis squad who will be able to compete for the playoffs in two years. In the Big Easy, Chris Paul is the single most valuable player to any team and his supporting cast has only gotten stronger with the addition of James Posey. All eyes are on Ron Artest. If they actually win a playoff series in this millennium, look no further. San Antonio and Dallas will be stingy competition, but both may need to reload in the very near future.

Northwest Division
1. Utah
2. Portland
3. Denver
4. Oklahoma City
5. Minnesota

After dominating the Northwest Division last season, the Jazz are back at it again. While Portland and Denver will be competent adversaries, both lack the continuity and the ability to buckle down on defense. They also lack the consummate floor general in the form of Deron Williams. As for Oklahoma City and Minnesota, they are tough to watch unless you have Durant or Jefferson (or Miller) on your fantasy teams.

Pacific Division
1. LA Lakers
2. Phoenix
3. LA Clippers
4. Golden State
5. Sacramento

The Lakers are not only the cream of the crop in the Pacific Division, but also the Western Conference. To remain at the top of the heap, the Lakers need a healthy frontcourt in addition to a head-strong Kobe. In Phoenix, we know they're still good, but many questions are left to be answered. Is Nash still an elite point guard? Can Shaq be a factor at both ends of the floor? Did the team learn how to play defense over the summer? As for the other three teams, expect them to struggle. Golden State may finish third, but do not expect to see them in the playoffs.

Conference Rankings
1. LA Lakers
2. Utah
3. New Orleans
4. Houston
5. Phoenix
6. San Antonio
7. Dallas
8. Portland
9. Denver
10. LA Clippers
11. Golden State
12. Memphis
13. Sacramento
14. Oklahoma City
15. Minnesota

Garnett: Impossible was defense before his arrival in BeantownCredit: ESPN
[EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the first of a 3-pack of pre-season power rankings. Parts II and III will be posted on Wednesday and Thursday. These power rankings will then be used to determine draft order for our first NBA Mock Draft. Yeah, that's how we do.] EASTERN CONFERENCE
Atlantic Division
1. Boston
2. Toronto
3. Philadelphia
4. New Jersey
5. New YorkIt's a case of the rich staying rich, but distributing some wealth along the way. Philadelphia and Toronto scored major off-season acquisitions in the form of Elton Brand and Jermaine O'Neal. However, the champions remain the favorites to win the Atlantic Division (and the Eastern Conference). It'll be another depressing year for the Nets and Knicks. Expect more wins from the latter, but the Knicks are at least a year until they can effectively purge their roster of horrific contracts. Let the countdown begin, Coach D'Antoni.

Central Division
1. Cleveland
2. Detroit
3. Chicago
4. Milwaukee
5. Indiana To say this is a defining season in the career of LeBron James is a major understatement. Ownership has emptied its pockets to build a team around the superstar, bringing in Mo Williams from Milwaukee. Detroit will need steadier contributions from younger players in order to vie with Cleveland for top spot in the Central and to hold off the upstart Chicago Bulls, who won't tank it for two years straight. As for Milwaukee and Indiana, I expect both to win at least 35 games, but neither will be in the playoffs.

Southeast Division
1. Orlando
2. Miami
3. Atlanta
4. Washington
5. Charlotte Though I'm not in love with Orlando, they won the division last year and no one in the division can defend Dwight Howard (okay, perhaps Emeka Okafor can). When they try, they realize quickly that the Magic can sink the trifecta. Future ROY Michael Beasley will stuff the stat sheet in Miami and get some Ws. D-Wade and Shawn Marion won't disappoint either. Atlanta will remain talented but unfulfilled (Thank you, Josh Childress). And yes, Wizards fans, the season is not in good shape when it hasn't started and two of your three best players have injuries. I'm calling for Mike Woodson to relieved of his job by February and for the Wizards to struggle due to having no Arenas. Stan van Gundy will continue to look like this man.Conference Rankings
1. Boston
2. Cleveland
3. Detroit
4. Orlando
5. Chicago
6. Toronto
7. Miami
8. Philadelphia
9. Atlanta
10. Washington
11. Milwaukee
12. Indiana
13. New Jersey
14. Charlotte
15. New York

1) No Need to Apologize
Titan fans can tell the NFL two words this week. While I won't say em, DX made em quite popular. While Vince Young sits quietly on the sidelines, Tennessee is 7-0 and Kerry Collins is responsible for 6 of those wins. He isn't Trent Dilfer of the 2000 Ravens. He helps win games. Disagree? Check the tape last night and be extra sure you check who his receivers are (or aren't). Bo Scaife may make the Pro Bowl because the Titans don't need Pro Bowl wideouts apparently. While the Titans will never get any respect, they may end up being the Tampa Bay (Devil) Rays of the NFL this season. Of course when they do lose in the playoffs, every "expert" will say they saw it coming long ago. Then again, where were those "experts" who picked the Titans to be 7-0? Here's what matters:
A) They've beaten everyone in front of them, including AFC South stalwarts Indianapolis and Jacksonville.
B) Jeff Fisher is the best coach in the NFL. Imagine what he'd do with Peyton or Brady.
C) This is the best team in football right now. Deal with it.

2) Sometimes it isn't the Coach
Marvin Lewis is stale in Cincy. Move on.
Mike Singletary was the right move on San Francisco. Praise on.
Rod Marinelli never had a chance in Detroit. Fire on.
Wade Phillips doesn't do any damage being in Dallas right now. Stay on.
As for Norv Turner in San Diego. a€¦
I use the "a€¦" because I don't know. It's too easy to blame Norv for San Diego's problems. Merriman's injury has been catastrophic and a few other realities have come to play:
A) The Antonio Cromartie of last season wasn't his true self.
B) Phillip Rivers and LT are great players, but they aren't winners. Yeah, I said it.
C) Ted Cottrell is the most stagnant coordinator in football. The game has passed him by.

3) M-V-P for CP?
Each and every week we seem to have a "new" MVP to celebrate. Aaron Rogers, Trent Edwards, Eli Manning, Jay Cutler, and Steve Smith (of Carolina) have all gotten some pub in recent weeks. While I believe Andre Johnson of Houston is currently playing the best of anyone in football, Clinton "insert your favorite alter-ego" Portis would get my MVP vote. His rushing numbers are amazing and his team is an impressive 6-2. Don't give me pining for 7-1 Skins fans, take your medicine and love it. CP has been shockingly durable, a redzone magnet, and has done all of this without a rush of over 35-yards. How? Confidence in his coach, his offensive line (Samuels is FINALLY playing Pro Bowl-caliber tackle), and a QB who doesn't throw interceptions. While the Skins still don't have the explosive offense their fans dream of, they're a top NFC team because of three reasons:
A) Their QB doesn't turn over the ball often.
B) Their defense holds opponents all over the field.
C) Their RB is the NFL MVPa€¦thus far.

4) The Not-so-Golden Boy
It doesn't take a Jim Rome a€" who only blasts people he can't get on his show a€" or even an angry New Yorker to tell you what Peter King, Tony Kornheiser, and Mike Jaworski won't tell youa€¦ Brett Favre has been very average this season. Jet fans booed the future Hall of Famer last Sunday. And for good reason. Favre makes 5-6 throws each and every week that are just waiting to be a pick-six. Sure he makes 5-6 throws only a handful of QBs ever could make; yet, is it beneficial in the end? The answer is still YES. The team still believes in his talent, his vision is still unparalleled, and you can't forget that he is a proven winner. Just ask a few of the teams mentioned above how important that characteristic is. Nevertheless, let me get three points across:
A) The Jets may be the fourth best team in the AFC East.
B) Brett Favre didn't win the game last week. Lav Coles making that impressive TD catch combined with a missed illegal contact penalty on Drew Coleman in the closing seconds did.
C) The Jets are technically tied, at 4-3, for the final wild-card spot.
Anything else is trivial at this point.

It's another year for our top-notch college basketball. When you go to the real media for your Top 10 Impact Freshman, you get a list of the same ten guys you've heard about since NBADraft.net started its mock drafts two years ago.

Beasley: Rivals.com rated him #1 while others balkedCredit: CNN/SI

For that reason, we are going to exclude the odds-on best freshmen at each position per Rivals.com. You will most certainly hear about these players early and often. Perhaps too often for your sanity. They include the following:

PG: Jrue Holliday, UCLA. Rivals.com lists him Holliday as the top point guard while Scout.com ranks him as the top shooting guard. The jury is out on how much he'll play at the 1, it's no secret that Darren Collison struggles against big guards.
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXVuaMLcaTA

SG: Demar DeRozan, USC. DeRozan has all the tools to dominate. Is his 6'7", 200-pound frame enough to withstand the rigors of conference play?
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbOgK1tTFQw

SF: Al Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest. A consensus top 10 recruit, Aminu presents mismatches allowing him to rent space in the paint against smaller defenders and race to the hoop past bigger ones.
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN16chqIaaE

PF: Greg Monroe, Georgetown. To prepare for the college game and dog-eat-dog mentality of the Big East, Monroe beefed up 25 pounds. Skilled and able to rebound, Monroe will certainly learn how to become an elite defender within JT3's system.
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkobJjBaLig

C: BJ Mullens, Ohio State. The odds-on #1 pick in next year's draft, Mullens is the latest in Ohio State's giant factory. He instantly makes the Buckeyes relevant in the Big Ten and is a mortal lock for a double-double average.
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGxXFfNQBLI





With the most obvious impact players out of the way, let's take a look at ten others that you should keep your eyes peeled for.

1. Willie Warren, SG, Oklahoma. Last season, Oklahoma lacked a perimeter presence to match that of Blake Griffin and Longar Longar. This season, Warren and an improved Tony Crocker will bring the backcourt on par with the frontcourt. If Warren performs (and Griffin stays healthy), Oklahoma will take the Big 12.

2. Tyreke Evans, SG, Memphis. Among the nation's most touted recruits, Evans has a NBA-ready body with prototypical two-guard size. Not to mention, his 6'11" wingspan (real height: 6'6") is sure to disrupt passing lanes. With their two top scorers gone, Evans will be expected to light up, but he'll have to learn how to be unselfish to win.

3. Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State. Considered the 3rd-best small forward in the recruiting class by Rivals.com, Singleton has great size, can shoot the rock, rebound and plays aggressively around the rim.

4. Scotty Hopson, SG/SF, Tennessee. Exit Lofton. Enter Hopson. They're not the same type of player. Hopson's athleticism and skill level are superb, and Bruce Pearl will be sure to work on his shot.

5. Devin Ebanks, F, West Virginia. When Ebanks was being recruited, Bob Huggins was envisioning a pairing with Joe Alexander, who of course is now in the NBA. He's an explosive forward who'll benefit from the backcourt of Joe Mazzulla and Alex Ruoff.

6. Samardo Samuels, PF, Louisville. To compete in the Big East, you need bigs who can ball. Rick Pitino won't expect Samuels to have David Padgett's basketball IQ, but he will expect him to work hard in the blocks against the likes of Harangody, Thabeet and Monroe.

7. DeAndre Liggins, PG, Kentucky. With Ramel Bradley, Joe Crawford and Derek Jasper out of the program, the consensus top 30 recruit has a chance to shine like none other. Liggins is a stat-sheet stuffer with the intangibles to boot.


Liggins: Could be the key to Patrick Patterson dominating the SEC
Credit: USA Today

8. JaMychal Green, PF, Alabama. Anchor. That's the word Davidson head coach Bob McKillop used to describe Green. He will have a learning curve playing in the SEC, but it's not as steep as one would imagine. Green's a great replacement for Richard Hendrix.

9. Luke Babbitt, F, Nevada. Babbitt can score. How much? He holds the Nevada high school scoring record with nearly 3,000 points. Inside or outside, Babbitt brings it.

10. Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State. The son of Mychal Thompson, Klay has crazy range and fits nicely into Tony Bennett's system. If he's not a strong defensive player now, he'll at least pick up team defense by March. In the meanwhile, his coaches would be happy if he fills some of the scoring void left by outgoing guards Kyle Weaver and Derrick Low.

1) Why isn't the "London Game" a€" New Orleans vs. San Diego a€" getting more pub than a 1 pm slot on CBS?
2) Which of the winless a€" Detroit (hosting Washington) or Cincy (@Houston) a€" has a better chance to notch their first W of the season?
3) If Dallas ends Sunday at 4-4, will Wade Phillips have a job Monday morning?
4) Can Clinton Portis (NFL best 818 rushing yards) keep up his Herculean-workload without finally being seriously dinged up? (Jinx THAT Skins fans!)
5) Anybody too upset there's no Sunday night game tonight (*cough*World Series)?

It's about that time! Midnight Madness has taken place and the college basketball season has officially begun. At PHSports, we have been studying the teams and examining the scuttlebutt all summer. Without further adieu, let's just dive into the All-America teams, which comprises a list of who we think are the best 15 student athletes collegiate players in the country.

1st Team
F Tyler Hansbrough, North Carolina (Player of the Year)
F Blake Griffin, Oklahoma
F Luke Harangody, Notre Dame
G Stephen Curry, Davidson
G James Harden, Arizona State

2nd Team
C BJ Mullens, Ohio State (Newcomer of the Year)
F Tyler Smith, Tennessee
F Jon Brockman, Washington
F Damion James, Texas
G Darren Collison, UCLA

3rd Team
F Patrick Patterson, Kentucky
F Sam Young, Pittsburgh
G Jack McClinton, Miami (FL)
G Patrick Mills, St. Mary's
G Ty Lawson, North Carolina