Week 5 NFL Picks!

Once again no writing just picks. I would love to write, but unfortunately I am way to busy for myself so this is all I for you guys this week. Also, I was actually going to post this earlier this week on Thursday but forgot so here it is now. I picked Arizona and will that pick in there...anyways...ENJOY!

Side Note: Bears should RUN OVER the Jaguars. They have the 3rd worst running defense in the league; look for a BIG day from Forte and Bush! Da BEARS!

Week 4 NFL Picks

No Writing.. Just Picks.. What do you think?

Week 2 Review: Bears @ Packers

Cutler was sacked 7 times and threw 4 interceptions in the 23-10 loss to the Green Bay Packers. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)

After what we saw in week 1, Bears players and fans alike were confident going into Lambeau that they would be the ones drilling Green-Bay into the ground. We should have known better.

The Packers, who only lost 1 game in the regular season last year, is still an elite team. Even with a weak showing in Week 1 vs. San Francisco, this team is still one the the favorites to win it all. Since 1990, every year Packers have started off 0-2, they have failed to make it to the playoffs. Knowing that this Packers team is a sure lock to be in the post-season -- they weren't going to start off the season 0-2.

Even with all that said, the Chicago Bears were never truly out of the game. They were simply out-coached and out-played, but their defense kept them in the game until the very last quarter.

With 11 minutes to go in the 4th quarter, Jay Cutler threw a deep pass intended for Brandon Marshall that was picked off by Packers. The pass shouldn't have been thrown. Besides the fact that was ball was WELL under thrown, Brandon Marshall was the only WR in that area of the field and commanded the attention of all of Packers secondary.

There was enough blame to go around through, and if you want to discuss whether the Bears lost or the Packers won -- The Packers Won at the end of the game and that's all that counts.

The offensive line was a mess. Clay Matthews was a beast and ate Cutler up multiple times after cruising past left tackle J'marcus Webb. At one point in the game, NFL network captured Jay Cutler screaming in Webb's face, and even added a little shove to make his point. This is quickly becoming a scene of discussion and whether Cutler was being a leader or a bully?

Webb needs to be motivated. Although the shove was unneeded, Cutler is tired of constantly getting drilled to the ground. After the game, Cutler was still very frustrated showed his emotions while addressing the media.

Wide receivers had an off day. The passing game gained a total of just 74 yards. Brandon Marshall had a key drop in the end-zone that would have made it 13-10, but the bears had to settle for a FG.

The Coaches were out-coached. Not did the Packers have good defense calls to control and contain the Bears passing game. The Bears had just 47 total yards of offense in the 1st half, and only 7 passing yards. At crucial times in the game when the offensive line was breaking down, Bears did not run the ball enough. While the total play call at the end of the game was well-balanced, the timings of the run/pass plays was, shall I say, Rookie-ish? Perhaps Mike Tice's first actual game where he had to think on his feet and adjust the play call drastically during the game was too much for him.

There were a couple bright sides though, something to hang our hats on. Matt Forte accounting for 80 of the 168 yards of total offense. Unfortunately, he was injured during the game and reportedly has a high ankle sprain that will likely keep him off the field for a couple games.

The defense wasn't too bad, and the defensive line actually got more pressure on the Rodgers than they did on Andrew Luck the week before. They sacked Rodgers 5 times, including one by rookie 1st round pick Shea Mcclellin. Defense also forced 2 turnovers as Tim Jennings intercepted yet another pass. The defense was also able stop the Packers on many 3rd & 1s to keep the Bears in the game. 

While the loss is tough to take, we must remember that this was just week 2 and the Bears are 1-1. Don't forget that last year the Bears started out 2-3 and then went of on a 5-game winning streak where they were recognized nationally as one of the hottest teams in the NFL. As the season progresses, the Bears will figure out a way to keep their offense balanced and explosive. The defense, even with an older and slower Brain Urlacher in the middle, are still fierce and strong enough on the line to keep the team in the game and force critical turnovers.

Next up, the Bears face-off against the Rams at home next Sunday. Although this past Sunday was an OFFENSIVE DISASTER, the Bears now have played 1 good game and 1 to certainly forget. When it's all set and done, this team should be in the post-season but we are weeks away from serious talks about that.

First thing is first. Take care of the task at hang and that means cleaning up offensive mistakes and focusing on the Rams. Until next Sunday --- BEAR DOWN!

Bears: Week 1 Review / Week 2 Pick

Are we finally ready to start the NFL season?... Week 1 of the NFL season seemed more like week 5 of preseason for the Chicago Bears as they ruined 1st overall pick Andrew Luck's 1st career game. This was suppose to be a week 2 preview and not a week 1 review, but due to lack of time and real life - that is what it has become.

The .gif you see above is the 42 yd strike from Cutler to rookie WR Alshon Jeffrey who recorded 3 receptions for 80yds. Pure perfection- I could watch it all day- one of the reason it will repeat for as long as you're on this page. Anyways, he wasn't the top receiver as Chicago and the nation saw once again why Cutler and Marshall might be the best QB-WR combo in the game. Marshall finished the day with 9 catches for 119yds and a TD- Damn good fantasy numbers which should stay pretty consistent. Forte showed us all why exactly he needed to be paid, and the Bush did what he is suppose to do. Oh, and no one is talking about the O-line......that is a good thing.

Defensively, Bears are always hungry for turnovers and QBs. Defense got 5 turnovers (2 fum, 3 ints) and recorded 3 sacks. Tillman got hurt and his status is unknown whether or not he will play against GB, but I would like to applaud the work of our secondary. Tim Jennings showed that he was a much better player than last year and on Sunday he showed us how much he had improved. Conte and Chicago-born Hayden were good in coverage and in tackling.

Anyways...like I said, that game seemed more like a preseason game but a win is a win. Now all the focus is on Thursday night and the team's whose fans put cheese on their heads. Seriously, that's just stupid - Cheese is for eating, not for wearing.



Week 2: Bears at Packers:

--FINAL--
Bears: 31
Packers: 27

Week 1 Preview: Bears vs. Colts

The Chicago Bears 2012 regular season will kick off tomorrow at noon at Soldier Field when "Da Bears" face off against the Indianapolis Colts. Tomorrow will also mark the first time Jay Cutler will step back onto the field in over 9 months after injuring his right thumb against the Chargers in November last year.

There are definitely more than a few story lines heading into this game and hopefully the game answers more questions that it raises. To be put frankly, it is the first year that I can ever remember the Bears entering a season where their offense is superior to their defense. Additions of Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffrey in the off-season form an explosive wide receiver set that opponents will have to game plan heavily to contain. However, there are still lingering issues surrounding the offensive line, especially the left tackle position, and also with the lack of Forte's production in the preseason.

While the offense is projected to make major highlights, Coach Smith's spotlight is always on the defense. Last year Chicago ranked 14th in points allowed per game (21.3). The defense was unable to takeover after Cutler's injury when the Bears lost 5 straight before their week 17 victory at home against the Vikings. For what it's worth, the defense was not able to hold the Packers under 24 points last year.

The defense, while still strong and what I think will be a good to great defense, is just injuries away from caving in. The secondary has been a disappointment for a number of seasons and on top of that, pro ball corner back Charles Tillman seemed to be off his game in the preseason. Perhaps the number one concern for the defense right now is the heart of their defense Brain Urlacher. Urlacher, along with many others on defense, is over the age of 30 and is having trouble running because of his injured left knee. As of yesterday, Urlacher said that his knee is feeling fine and he was able to do more intense drills than before, however he is not currently in the exact football shape he would like to be in. If Urlacher were to go down, next in like mike LB would be Nick Roach, skilled and good linebacker, but he's no Urlacher.

Saying all that, it isn't much longer until we shut up and just watch! Lets take a look at how the Bears match up against the Colts.

Week 1: Bears vs. Colts
Intro: The Bears host the Colts at Soldier field tomorrow in what will be the highly anticipated debut #1 pick Andrew Luck. The rookie has shown credible skill and talent in his preseason games that he is ready for the NFL stage. The Colts are coming off a league worst 2-14 season and are looking to bounce back after departing with Superbowl XLI hero Peyton Manning.

Offense: The Chicago Bears come in this season with an offense that the franchise has never had. With a pack of speedy and tall "go-up-and-get-it" type receivers, and a backfield of running backs that can catch, run, and even occasionally block, Colts are going to have a hard time figuring out how game-plan against this never before seen Bears offense. While seasons before the Bears were somewhat predictable offense with a majority of run plays, the play-action could be deadly weapon this year. Indianapolis has the tough job of being the first team to face this new look Bears offense. On the other-side, while Andrew Luck has shown that he is an NFL starting quarterback he doesn't have enough playmakers around him. Reggie White and Austin Collie highlight the WR core and their starting RB is Donald Brown; certainly not as threatening as they used to be. Also, Andrew Luck should watch out, the Bears have an act for knocking out rookie quarterbacks, just ask Matthew Stafford. Offensive edge goes to the Bears.

Defense: As mentioned, the Bears have couple of issues on the defensive side like any team, but they certainly cannot be afford to be beat in the secondary. Andrew Luck is intelligent and is perhaps the most NFL ready rookie right now. He will adjust and learn quick, so the defense needs to be aggressive. Getting to a rookie quarterback (physically), will get to a rookie quarterback (mentally). Brain Urlacher is listed as probable for this game, meaning that he will play. I don't think that he needs to be in their for every snap. Obviously there is a case that perhaps he should sit this game out and play in week 2 vs the Packers on Thursday, but perhaps this game might get him more into "football shape". The bears defense is will good and under Lovie Smith, they have forced the most turnovers since 2004. Colts defense will have much more difficult task against the Bears offense and trying to figure out the new offensive schemes. Unless something unbelievable happens between now and tomorrow's game, Bears defense over Colts defense anyday.

Special Teams: There isn't much to say about the special because year after year, the Bears have proved to the rest of the league that they have by-far one of the best special teams in the league. Special Teams coordinator Dave Toub has been highly recognized in the league for coming up with some of the most incredible and successful plays. Chicago has a basket full of returners include Devin Hester, Earl Bennett, Eric Weems, and others who have all had pretty long returns. Robbie Gould is as good as any kicker in the league and long snapper Patrick Mannelly will be entering his 15th season into the NFL. The other questions right now is punter Adam Podlesh who tweaked a part of his hip in the preseason, but he is also listed is probable for the game, meaning he will also play. Besides the veteran and sure footed Adam Vinatieri, the Colts special teams is average for kickoff coverage, and was 31st in the league in terms of total kick return yards in 2011. Having Hester, Gould and an outstanding coordinator gives the Bears a huge advantage in special teams.

Conclusion: The Bears have a clear advantage in this team and need to come out aggressive and ready to play. A high-powered offense backed up by a ferocious defense means that the Bears should come out on top. However, there have been plenty of times when the Bears have come out flat-footed and looked uninterested. If that is the case, Andrew Luck might just have a field day and rip apart the Bears secondary. Don't think that players won't go the Urlacher knees to weaken him for the Bears/Packers primetime match-up in week 2. Any given Sunday anything could happen, but I don't see Colts coming out of Chicago with a victory.

--FINAL--

Bears (1-0): 27 
Colts (0-1): 13

Quick Thoughts: Dwight Howard to L.A.

I know that it has been a long time since I have actually wrote on this blog. Trust me I wanted to write a lot on here including Bears pre-season, Penn state, Olympics, and many other things; however what really makes the site is the biggest NBA free agency move since LBJ's "Decision".

Let me summarize and break this down quickly so that you guys don't have to surf through multiple articles and sites. At approximately 10pm ct time, sources started to confirm that Dwight Howard was on his way to L.A. as part of a four team deal. The deal is said be complete and will be made official via a conference call with a league officials sometime Friday. Here is how the trade breaks down.

TRADE BREAKDOWN:
Lakers get: Dwight Howard (Magic),  Earl Clark (Magic), and Chris Duhon (Magic) 
Sixers get: Andrew Bynum (Lakers) and Jason Richardson (Magic),
Nuggets get: Andre Iguodala (Sixers)
Magic get: Arron Afflalo (Nuggets), Al Harrington (Nuggets), Moe Harkless (Philly), Nikola Vucevic (Sixers), and three 1st-rd draft picks (one from each of the other teams). and 2013  2nd rd. draft pick (Nuggets).

My Thoughts...
First and foremost, there will be a few of you out there who no matter what happens in the NBA, will try to bring it back to the Bulls. Directly, this has absolutely nothing to do with the Bulls. NO, they did not have a shot at Howard, ever, and nor did they have the money to support any other big-time deals. Still, Bulls execs haven't done a great job. It is okay to be furious with the management because when you think about it, what is the last great move the Bulls have made besides getting lucky with Derrick Rose?

Moving on, what does this mean for NBA in general? Well let's face it, come June 2013, barring some unforeseen injuries we will most likely see a Lakers- Heat finals. There is no team in the east that come compete at the same level with the Heat. NO, not Nets, not Celtics, and no not even the Bulls. In the west, the only other team that will give a great challenge to Lakers is OKC. Unfortunate for the OKC that they are in the conference as the Lakers, who's starting lineup could look something like this; Nash, Kobe, Artest, Gasol, and Howard. Obviously much more will be known and discussed as the remaining details are known.

Also, Bears lost their 1st preseason of the game to the Broncos by a final score of 31-3. Please don't make this a bigger deal that it is-- it was a preseason game. Lots of positives to take from this and if we tighten up some things the potential could be very VERY high. Our draft picks really really good. If want to talk to me more about this or any other sports related things, hit me up.

I am always up for a good chat of sports.
Hit me up on twitter @jsurati23

Oakton: Start Here. Go Anywhere.

When one chapter in your life ends, another begins.

**8:30am: Open the Windows**

Last Thursday evening, I finished up my last day as a student employee over at the Enrollment Center of Oakton Community College. As I closed down the wooden windows and shut down the computers, I realized that this chapter of my life has finally finished.

Day in and Day out, I would walk into that office across the Book Store - where people come to ask where the Book Store is (it's appropriate to point just behind them). I always felt so welcomed, so comfortable, so...at home. And yes of course me being me, I would always walk in like a rock star. Giving hand shakes to everyone, shouting Good (time of day) to the people in the back and then I would jump right into the flow of things... "I can help whoever's next!"

For nearly two years I called room 1260 my home, and ext. 1700 my phone number. It was here in the summer of 2010, freshly out of my first year in college, that I started my 2nd job ever (I also landed another job that same week!). I won't lie, at first I was a bit intimidated and overwhelmed by the array of paper forms, admission/financial aid rules, and the always *confusing* questions from demanding students.

At the time that I entered, the Enrollment Center had just converted into the Enrollment Center from (a combination of Registration and Financial Aid), and while everyone knew their role in the office, not everyone knew their place (including me). I remember the first couple of times I would walk in the office and go straight into the back room and just start shred papers or file until someone would tell me to go shadow someone. OH, how I have come so far from those days.

I was lucky enough to shadow some great people, not just student employees, and they it is then when I learned the keys of working at there. I had quickly learned the online system (No manual reading was required), and learned that everyone had a style of getting things done, and as long as everything was completed at the end of the day, it was all good.

I don't know when it happened. When I switched from having to look up every phone number, division office, and the prerequisite to a specific class, to now when its just a second nature. I think the learning curve is definitely exponential. Once you get a hold of certain things you realize that you can spit out the numbers to division offices and the names of the department chairs without having to look at anything. Like I said before, I'm not sure where it starts--- BUT I'm pretty sure it starts with "Oh Advising and Counseling? That's Room 1130! Down the hallway, to the right of the TV."

I have been through many different office arrangements at the Enrollment Center, but the odd thing is that unlike my earlier career at the Enrollment Center, once I found my place, I always knew where it was (metaphorically of course, student employees don't have their own place). I can honestly say that working for the Enrollment Center was one of the greatest things in my life.

Starting out there as a young immature 18 year old, I acquired many professional skills and knowledge that I would not have today if it was wasn't for EC. Everything, everyone, and every part of our lives shape us in one way or another. The Enrollment Center was the perfect thing for me in my young professional career because it helped me build and learn strong service, communication, and office skills that every professional needs. Those however, were all on a professional level. Enrollment Center also taught me valuable lessons of life that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

One of those is the FACT that to be in a enjoyable work environment, and to be HAPPY at work, it's not about the work that you do, but the people that you work with. I truly walked into work everyday knowing that it was an enjoyable workplace, and that it made it easier to do whatever was asked of me. I was happy to a "Paper Boy", because when I needed you, you were there for me. I can proudly say that by the end of my time there, whenever I went to an administrator for help, it was not your average problem (which means I knew my stuff :] )

I met some amazing people = now my friends. Who wouldn't want to go to a place where you work with your friends? I thank you for everything that you have done for me and everything that you have withstood. I thank you for listening to my horrible stories, and laughing at my pains, as all friends do. I have had some amazing, memorable, and truly enjoyable moments at work. Each and every one of you have made my day in some way or another because you have helped me in so many ways. It is because of all of you that I will have success in my future, and it's probably the skills I acquired at the Enrollment Center that helped me land my first internship. It was truly my honor and pleasure to work with you all! I will definitely come and visit very soon and I will miss you all!

Notes: I just wrote whatever came out, I know probably missed a lot of stuff I wanted to say.. I wanted to add all the memories, but there are just too many.....and I REMEMBER THEM ALL! 

**7:00pm: Close the Windows** 

Good Night Enrollment Center!