Sports Enthusiasts

Avid sports fans, don't miss your favorite team's next live game! Just visit Live Sports Events to view their upcoming schedule. When you find the sports event you would like to go to, click the "View Tickets" link to check what tickets are available.

The 600 Save Closer

By Mickey Morgan

The History of the Save

The Save didn't become an official Major League Baseball (MLB) statistic until 1969. Prior to the 1970s, starting pitchers typically finished games. When they were not able to finish a game, managers had to call on a group of "has-beens" they kept in the bullpen. Pitchers with unusual styles, like the knuckleballer Hoyt Wilhelm, made a living coming out of the bullpen. In the '70s, managers began looking for pitchers who could be counted on to get a few crucial outs toward the end of the game. The great Yankees teams of the late '70s and early '80s relied on one of the best relievers; Hall of Famer Rich "Goose" Gossage. Gossage came up a pure reliever with the Chicago White Sox, but hit his prime with the Yankees. Fans began to pay attention to saves, which relievers earned by entering a game with a slim lead and preserving the victory. 

By the 1980s, relief pitchers like Dan Quisenberry of the Royals, Bruce Sutter with the Cubs and Cardinals and Dennis Eckersley with the Athletics became stars in their own right. The last two are in the Baseball Hall of Fame. The reliever role evolved toward increased specialization. The era of the iron-man closer coming in during the 7th inning was short-lived. 

By the late '80s, closers were being asked to get only three outs. From 1969 through 1985, one-inning saves made up only 21% of all saves. By 1991, the one-inning save jumped to over 40% of all saves. In 1992, more than half the saves were one-inning saves. In 1999, it was more than 70%. Now in 2011 the one-inning save reached the highest rate ever, an incredible 85.3%.

What is a Save in Baseball?

In MLB, a pitcher is credited with a save when he meets all four of the following conditions:

1. He is the finishing pitcher in a game won by his team; 
2. He is not the winning pitcher; 
3. He is credited with at least ⅓ of an inning pitched; and 
4. He satisfies one of the following conditions: 

1. He enters the game with a lead of no more than three runs and pitches for at least one  inning 
2. He enters the game, regardless of the count, with the potential tying run either on base, at bat or on deck 
3. He pitches for at least three innings

The One-Inning Save Specialist

The New York Yankees signed Rivera in 1990 and was pegged as a starting pitcher. He progressed up the minor-league ladder without any fanfare. He had the normal starter's repertoire; a straight fastball with a top velocity of 91 or 92 mph, a slider and a change-up. In 1995, Yankees General Manager Gene Michael brought him from the Columbus Clippers to the parent club, and Rivera compiled average numbers, but he was sent back to the minors. The team was hoping to acquire pitcher David Wells from the Detroit Tigers, and Rivera was a small part of the trade bait. Sometimes the trades you don't make are better than the ones you do.

Rivera's unexpected performance in the 1995 playoffs convinced management that he could be a more powerful weapon coming out of the bullpen than he could as a starter. In 5 1/3 innings he gave up 3 hits, one walk, 8 strikeouts and no runs. The Yankees already had a dominant closer, John Wetteland, and as Rivera continued demonstrated his shill, Manager Joe Torre made him Wetteland's setup man. In 1996 if the Yankees were ahead after six innings, the game was effectively over, because Rivera would pitch the seventh and eighth and Wetteland would pitch the ninth. Rivera won eight games and lost three with an impressive ERA of 2.09. In 107 2/3 innings he struck out 130 batters while giving up 73 hits. (The standard for excellence is striking out one batter and surrendering no more than one hit per inning). Rivera developed the pitch that made him great; a sharp-breaking, mid-90s mile per hour (mph) cut fastball.

Enter Sandman

In the summer of 1999, the Yankee Stadium scoreboard production staff began playing the song "Enter Sandman" by heavy metal band Metallica as Rivera's entrance music. Staff members selected the song after witnessing in the previous year's World Series how enthusiastically San Diego fans reacted to closer Trevor Hoffman entering games accompanied by AC/DC's "Hells Bells". Although Rivera was indifferent about his entrance music, "Enter Sandman" soon became as much a part of his identity as a closer as his cutter did.

3,000 Hits Verses 600 Saves

Mariano's low-key approach of a significant Major League record and the most important for his position gets very little press. Derek Jeter's 3,000 hit watch lasted 2 months and then when he got to 3,000 the congratulation messages lasted for several more weeks.

Maybe it's because there hasn't been that much interest in tracking saves as compared to hits or wins or home runs. Every day players have a benchmark; 3,000 hits. What is the benchmark for a closer? Is it 600 saves? So, in the past 42 years only two closers have accumulated 600 saves. I would say that is where the current benchmark should be. Keeping in mind that the number three all-time saves leader is Lee Smith (retired) at 478 and the closest active closer is Francisco Cordero at 323. At age 36, it's unlikely he will get another 300 saves in his career. 
Closers don't have 15 year careers any longer. Another major factor is that a closer has to play for a winning team for that long and also has to avoid serious injuries throughout his career.
It comes down to judging 3,000 hits vs. the all-time saves leader. It's far more impressive to be the all-time leader in something. The all-time hit leader is Pete Rose. The all-time wins leader is Cy Young. The all-time homerun leader is Barry Bonds. The all-time saves leader is Mariano Rivera.

There are 28 players the 3,000 hits club, 24 pitchers in the 300 wins club, and 25 players the 500 home runs club. However, there are only 2 closers in the 600 saves club.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say that no one will have more saves than Rivera. Even at age 41, I haven't heard anything about retirement. So who knows what his final total will be, but it will rank right up there with DiMaggio's 56 game hitting streak as a record that may never be broken.

Is 600 Saves a Big Deal?

So far, during Mariano Rivera's career he has a 75-57 record with 8 seasons of 40 plus saves (39 in 2008), including 2 50 plus save seasons. He led the major leagues in saves in 1999, 2001, and 2004. In 1208 innings pitched he has recorded 1107 strikeouts with only 274 walks and a 2.22 ERA. He has an ERA Plus of 205 (a major league record) and WHIP of.999. During Trevor Hoffman's career he had a 61-75 record with 601 saves a 2.87 ERA and an ERA Plus of 141, and a WHIP of 1.06.

Mariano Rivera with his 602nd save is now the all-time leader in career saves. As a Yankee fan, I watch the Yankee games on the YES Network, and for the past several weeks I've listened to the Yankee announcers tell us that Mariano Rivera is the best closer in the history of MLB. Now, in fact he probably is, but what was being completely ignored is that he wasn't the first MLB closer to reach 600 saves. That milestone was first accomplished last year by Trevor Hoffman. Hoffman appeared in 1,035 with no starts, while Rivera appeared in 1,038 games with 10 starts. With Rivera's post season record (42 saves) and considering he will probably add a lot more saves before he is done, I believe the case for him to be the best is a solid one. But to completely ignore the fact that Hoffman had already accomplished what Rivera was trying to duplicate was ridiculous.

Like Jim Thome's march to 600 home runs was basically ignored by the media, Rivera's journey to 600 saves was nothing compared to Derek Jeter's countdown to 3,000 hits.
Is 600 saves a big deal... ABSOLUTELY!


Mickey Morgan invites you to visit the Grand Slam Sports 360 (GSS360) web site ( http://grandslamsports360.com ). There you will find thousands of Major League Baseball (MLB) collectibles to choose from. In addition, GSS360 offers a large selection of authenticated autographed jerseys, bats, balls, photos and much more. Make sure to check out our Featured Products as well as our Specials for great bargains on unique and hard to find pieces of baseball memorabilia. Be sure to register and start receiving our newsletter, which includes monthly specials only available to GSS360 customers. Shop online 24/7 on our secure web site.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mickey_Morgan
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-600-Save-Closer&id=6573591


If you are a MLB Baseball fan visit the MLB Baseball events page at NutzforStuff Event Promotions for all of your live MLB event schedule and MLB event tickets needs. You will also find a wide range of other live Sports events there to choose from.

4 Reasons Why the Cleveland Indians Shouldn't Make a Major Trade Before the Deadline

By James D. Silver

The Indians are looking to trade for B.J. Upton, who is now with the Tampa Bay Rays. He's a good fielder, which the Cleveland Indians desperately need. However, his hitting right now is already in the sweet spot where most Cleveland Indians reside: around.225. In the past three years he has been consistently below.250, with 50 to 60 RBI's. Nothing to write home about. Is this worth the Indians giving up an A-list prospect? Obviously, no.


Carlos Beltran of the New York Mets wants to stay in the National League, so he isn't available. It sounds like the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants are leading the way for Beltran.


Notwithstanding what is being said by idiot radio talk show hosts in Cleveland, there are 4 good reasons why the Indians shouldn't make a trade before the deadline this year.


Reason 1:
There are a lot more buyers for right handed hitters than sellers, which means in order to get one, the Indians would need to give up more than would be rational. There is just not the availability of players with expiring contracts to fulfill any expectation of a reasonable rent-a-player strategy. Also, so many teams who are contending need the same type of outfielder the Indians are searching for, and if the Indians are smart, they should leave it to others to overpay.


Reason 2:
A rent-a-player strategy only works if you are one or two players away. The Indians aren't. They need 2 outfielders immediately, and if Sizemore and Choo don't start hitting when they return from injuries, they need 2 outfielders permanently. Hitting at 2B and 3B is atrocious. Carlos Santana is not hitting. Lou Marson, a good catcher to have when everyone else on the field can make up for your weakness in hitting, not surprisingly, isn't hitting. Matt LaPorta can fill in blanks. But is he the permanent solution? Yes. In right field if you've got a bunch of.280 hitters elsewhere on the team. So, one player is not the solution, and to give an A list prospect in such a case would be a bad decision.


Reason 3:
Under the reasonable assumption that Marson is an acceptable catcher if the rest of the team hits, and it is known that Santana, while having great potential, is just not making it this year and could use a change of pace, or a hitting instructor he will listen to, then it would be reasonable to trade Santana for an A-list player from a non-contending team, perhaps someone who is overpaid and in the last few years of a contract. However, the luck of the draw is that there is no such candidate available this year.


Reason 4:
Next Year. Really. Two really good young pitchers will be ready for 2012, adding to a pitching staff that is pretty good already. Kipnis and Chis enhall will be anchoring 2B and 3B for years to come. Maybe pick up someone in free agency. Then all of a sudden, a team which has had a taste of winning this year, can have a serious prospect of competing next year.


Upshot:
While many fans will protest, the Indians should not making any major deal before the deadline. Play with what you've got, and the reality is the team will end up 3rd or 4th in a highly competitive division. This is OK, because in 2012, the Indians will be the team to beat in that division.


http://sportadore.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_D._Silver
http://EzineArticles.com/?4-Reasons-Why-the-Cleveland-Indians-Shouldnt-Make-a-Major-Trade-Before-the-Deadline&id=6451039

For all of your Cleveland Indians and related MLB Baseball event schedule and ticket needs visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find these and many other Sports event schedules and event tickets.

The History of the Winnipeg Jets

By Harry Preston


In 1979, while Michael Gobuty was majority owner and president of the Winnipeg Arena, their home arena, expanded to contain 15 250 seats. The Jets also entered the Smythe Division of the NHL. However, according to the provisions of the merger, they had to sacrifice 10 players. They won only 29 games during their first two seasons in the NHL, but thanks to Coach Tom Watt (since replaced), they pull themselves together and finished in second place in 1981-82. In 1981, with the development of Dale Hawerchuk, the Jets got their first offensive star, but it was not enough to guarantee their success. They had their best season in 1984-85 and ranked fourth in the league with 96 points. They failed to proceed past the preliminaries of the Smythe Division, which consisted of powerful teams (Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames).


As the Jets failed to make it to the finals, they accumulated losses and concerns increased that the team would be sold to American interests. In 1991, the team was sold to a Canadian group that received financial aid from the province, which promised to keep the team in Winnipeg. With the expansion of the NHL, the Jets got moved to the Central Division of the Western Conference in 1993-94.


The absence of a modern stadium and pay increases for better players lead to the team going bankrupt.


In 1995, the Jets were about to be sold to Minneapolis. Even if the three levels of government agreed to build another stadium, a new group of buyers was need. A new group formed in 1995 but was not able raise the funds necessary for the survival of the team. The Jets then passed into the hands of American interests and on 1 July 1996, they officially renamed the team the Phoenix Coyotes.


For more information about Winnipeg, Manitoba visit http://www.GuidedTourWinnipeg.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harry_Preston
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-History-of-the-Winnipeg-Jets&id=2032821



To the delight of many NHL fans the Winnipeg Jets are back! To view the current Winnipeg Jets event schedule and purchase Winnipeg Jets event tickets visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find team schedules and tickets for all of your favorite NHL hockey teams.

Concert Review - Corey Smith at The Pageant in St Louis, MO 9-17-10

By Levi Boley

Who is Corey Smith? Well if you don't know yet, I have a feeling you soon will. Corey Smith may not be one of the most well-known artists out there today, but he is definitely working his way up! Are you tired of the same old songs about broken hearts and shattered dreams? Well, take a listen at this guy.

Corey Smith's performance this past weekend was at The Pageant in Saint Louis. For those of you who are not familiar with this venue, it's a relatively small, indoor venue. I have been to several shows at The Pageant, and with this one in particular, I was astounded to see the place packed from wall to wall. It was truly a sight to see for everyone to start waving their arms in the air and singing along to, "If I Could Do It Again." It was physical proof that so many of us relate to what he is saying in his songs. The crowd gave off such a positive vibe. There were no wallflowers; everyone was up, on their feet, singing and cheering, with smiles on their face the whole time. It's something that everyone can really get into.

He sings about the story of life in a positive manner. His music can be so uplifting, it just makes me want to go out and try new things, explore what the world has to offer. To go out and live with no regrets. This man can open your eyes and shed a whole new light on average every day experiences; all you have to do is open your ears. Bottom line, he tells it how it is, and I appreciate him for that, and love his music all the more for the realism in every lyric.

Corey Smith's show may not have been full of fantastic light's and extravagant stage performance, but it was definitely entertaining and full of life. You can tell that the artist is singing from his soul; he gets into his music. He feels every word that he sings, and you know he's not just "putting on a show". He opens himself up to the crowd and let's everyone see a glimpse of who Corey Smith truly is, and where he came from.

Those of us who are familiar with his music were thrilled to get a listen at some of the new work. And of course, he remains just as down to earth as ever. It's difficult to classify this genre of music. The music seems to give a country kind of vibe, but his lyrics appeal to a broad range of musical tastes and age groups. He definitely has a unique style that anyone can easily get hooked on. So do your ears a favor, and check him out. Take a listen, and if you get a chance, definitely see him live. It's exhilarating to see a true artist portray himself through music on a live stage.

Find more at:
http://drunkonjudgement.com
http://twitter.com/drunkjudgement
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Boley
http://EzineArticles.com/?Concert-Review---Corey-Smith-at-The-Pageant-in-St-Louis,-MO-9-17-10&id=5092839

For your live concert event needs visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find the Corey Smith concert event schedule, and can purchase tickets, plus a wide range of other Pop and Rock concert events and concert tickets

Chicago Limo Service for Sporting Events

By Wiliam G. Johnson

Chicago is home for numerous teams of different sports. No wonder it had earned the name or the Best Sports City many times by The Sporting News Magazine. Two major baseball teams come from Chicago: Chicago Cubs and The White Sox. There is also Chicago Bears, one of the National Football league teams, which won the football championship nine times. Basketball fans love Chicago Bulls, one of the greatest basketball team this 2011 season. And there is also Chicago Blackhawks, hockey champions and Stanley Cup winners of 2010.


With so many great teams there are many great games that take place in Chicago. Every sport lover can go see their favorite team play. Attending a game is an exciting event. To make it even better, get your all friends together and rent a limousine service. You will have a great opportunity to ride together without thinking about driving, parking and traffic. A good limo service will provide unforgettable memories and will bring you to any stadium.


For Chicago Cubs game, visit the Wrigley field on the North side. For Chicago White Sox travel to the Cellular Field on the South side. Just remember, those two teams are rivals so don't show up wearing a Sox shirt to the Cubs game! To make your evening even better, have your limo chauffeur drive you around the city after the game to grab dinner or some drinks. Bar hopping is a popular idea for Chicagoans after a successful game. It is convenient to have hourly rate limousine service when you are visiting multiple bars. You can always feel safe when you know there is a professional driver waiting for you to bring you back home safely.


Football games are even more important for Chicago residents. Tickets to a game can reach hundreds or dollars simply because there are not so many games in a season. Moreover, every game matters. The bears have proven themselves worthy this year and caused many happy moments for Chicago football fans. Home games for Bears take place at Soldier Field jus off the coast of lake Michigan. For such a long game like this, look for a sporting event deals for limousine service companies. It usually includes the drop-off at the game and then couple of hours drive time in the limousine after the game.


Limo service can enhance not only baseball or football events. Renting a limo to Chicago Bulls game can make the night really memorable. Not only you will be seeing one of the most recognized basketball teams in the world but also will be travelling in a sleek and elegant Chicago limousine. For big parties rent a party bus service to your game. You will spend time with your friends in the most exciting way!


A Limousine is your private club on wheels. Be it a Bulls game or a Blackhawks playoffs, Chicago limo service will make your night unforgettable.


William G Johnson invites you to travel with Elite Chicago Limo. Elite Chicago Limo is the leading chauffeured ground transportation provider in Chicago. We offer Chicago Limo Service with luxury sedans, stretch limousines, SUVs, limo and party buses. Call today and book your dream Chicago Limousine with Elite Chicago Limo!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wiliam_G._Johnson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Chicago-Limo-Service-for-Sporting-Events&id=6198973



To help with your online event ticket needs visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions to find a wide selection of Sports, Concerts, Theater, Stage Shows, and Las Vegas Show event schedules and event tickets.

Mixed Martial Arts: An Introduction

By Dr Harold Jones

Martial Arts Techniques and Training Plans for MMA
There is a lot to learn when it comes to martial arts. Because there are many techniques it is impossible to learn all of them. It is best to specialise in areas such as cage fighting or wrestling.

One of the most popular reason people learn about this topic is self defense. You can learn karate or hand to hand combat. Various techniques are useful for various purpose and they are not universal. Some styles can be used when on the ground but may not be useful for disarming a person that has a weapon.

The hand to hand combat is used specifically to protect yourself. It has easy moves that are easy to learn but incorporates the most effective and tough techniques. Some of the techniques are used in various types of martial arts like mui thai and thai kick boxing as well as cage fighting.

Gravity can be used to your benefit by learning how to get someone down onto the ground to protect your well being. The most important technique is the claw and it is popular for women who wish to defend themselves from an attacker. Push on the chin of the attacker and shove his or her head back. Put as much force into it as possible. This will stop the criminal in his or her tracks.

Mixed Martial Arts Training
This a type of plan that incorporates various areas of fitness and training for strength conditioning. It includes factors such as your diet, physical power level, strength and endurance. Various techniques from different martial arts are put together into one.

Whether you are an athlete or not, you must always have a healthy diet that includes protein and carbohydrates in order to eliminate unnecessary fats but in moderation. Fruits and vegetables have important nutrients the body needs.

Because the moves take place very fast you must have power to perform the kicks or to perform any other moves in the sport. Fast body movements are important to moderate your weight balance. Using your muscles to the fullest extent when required is also a major factor.

Endurance is important to withstand the force of the opponent you are up against. You must have strength to withstand the kicks and other techniques used on your body by the other party. If you are not strong, you have no chance of winning.

For a wealth of information on all martial arts see: http://www.pathwaytofitness.com/ For specific information on muay thai see: http://www.pathwaytofitness.com/muay-thai/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Harold_Jones
http://EzineArticles.com/?Mixed-Martial-Arts:-An-Introduction&id=6393217

For all of your online event schedule and event ticket needs please visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find a top selection of Mixed Martial Arts events and similar Sports event schedules and event tickets.

NFL Teams to Watch for 2011-2012

By James Campbell

Hello my friends.. Those that read my previous article on NFL coaching changes for 2011 also got to bone up on my thoughts on two teams to watch out for that might very well surprise during the upcoming season when it comes to projected regular season wins, the Cleveland Browns and the Denver Broncos. Below you will find my overall final list of teams that I expect to either surpass or fall short of the posted Vegas regular season win totals.

CLEVELAND: I won't get too detailed with the Brownies in this article as I have already wrote an in-depth piece on them in my previous article, however, with that being said I will indeed lay out a few reasons WHY I fully expect the Brownies to surpass 6.5 wins. First of all, a glance at the final SOS (strength of schedule) from last season reveals that Cleveland actually faced the NFLs third toughest slate of games as evidenced by the fact that the Browns sixteen opponents from last year combined to finish with a winning percentage of .564.

Against last years opponents Cleveland managed to post a record of 5-11 straight up and 5-10-1 ATS, a closer look-see reveals that five of the Brownies eleven straight up losses were by six or less points and lets not forget that Cleveland went into New Orleans and whipped the Saints 30-17, defeated the Patriots 34-14, and gave the Jets all they wanted before losing 20-26.

This year the Brownies are tied with three other teams (Oakland, Giants, Atlanta) for the 19th toughest schedule, in other words, Cleveland is going from playing the 3rd toughest schedule last year to having the 19th toughest schedule this year, is asking Cleveland to win two additional games this year versus last year all that much? I don't think so and especially when considering that Cleveland will get to face the weak NFC West this season in road games at San Francisco and Arizona and will also have fairly easy home dates against the likes of Tenny, Miami, Seattle, St Louis, and Jacksonville.....OVER 6.5 regular season wins.
DENVER: The Broncos are the other team that I have already profiled in my previous article, like Cleveland, I fully expect Denver to surpass the projected regular season win total of 6 that Vegas has set for them. However, unlike the Brownies who have an easier schedule this year versus last year, these Broncos actually have a tougher slate of games this year versus last year.

Denver finished last year with an overall mark of 4-12 straight up and were 5-10-1 ATS, the Broncos faced the NFLs 23rd toughest schedule last year (.488) as computed by league final win/loss results. This year the Broncos are tied with five other teams (Indy, Jags, KC, SD, and Det) for the right to have the leagues 3rd toughest slate of games. So if the Broncos only won four games last year with the 23rd rated schedule, what is it that makes me think they will equal or surpass 6 wins this year with a tougher schedule?

Without getting too in-depth here (read my other article) with regard to the changes that have taken place in Denver, let it suffice to say that having a new sheriff in town (John Fox) will make all the difference as Denver lost four games last year by seven or less points due to fielding a defense that gave up a monster 471 points on the season, which needless to say was the most points allowed by any team. Look for defensive-minded skipper John Fox to have the cure for what ailed last seasons 32nd ranked defense.

In the big picture Vegas isn't stupid, the odds maker knows Denver faces a tougher slate of games this year versus last year, he knows that Denver only won four games last year but yet he sets Denvers regular season win total this year at 5.5 only to have the sharps almost immediately take the number up to 6. New Skipper John Fox likes to play a more conservative game by running the ball more and playing strong defense, this approach by itself will surely help the Broncos turnover margin from last season (- 9) and could mean the difference in a couple of close games.....OVER 6 regular season wins.

MINNESOTA: The Vikings are one of eight teams this season to have a new skipper directing traffic, however, new HC Leslie Frazier with Minny, along with new HC Jason Garrett for Dallas, are the only two new guys that were actually interim HC hold-overs from last season when Minnesota and Dallas both fired their headmen prior to the conclusion of the regular season. This means that both Frazier and Garrett will have a leg up on the other new skippers and especially when it comes to player relations and scheme implementation.

What I pointed out above really doesn't have diddly to do with how each team will actually perform within their own division because no other team within the Vikings or Cowboys division had a head coaching change. The time and place to take advantage of head coaching changes should be based on what spread Vegas places on events that involve teams with new skippers. Never lose sight of the fact that its all about public PERCEPTION.

Joe Public sees a Viking team that finished last year with an overall mark of 6-10 straight up and 5-10-1 ATS, ole Joe views the Vikings as a team influx with regard to last years very distracting Favre saga and the eventual goodbye to HC Brad Childress prior to the seasons end. Ole Joe sees this year the Vikings will have no Favre, no QB Tarvaris Jackson, no WR Sidney Rice, and no DT Pat Williams. Ole Joe is drinking the media koolaid and hearing all the hoopla of how the Vikings divisional rivals will be sooooooo good this year with regard to Green Bay probably going to win back to back Super Bowls, of how both the Bears and Lions are teams to look out for.

Yada yada yada...I also see a Viking team that was in turmoil last year, however, I also see a Viking team that won 13 games the season prior and was a Favre interception away in OT from going to the Super Bowl. I see a pretty good veteran QB in Donovan McNabb donning purple who has something in Minny that he did not have in either Philly or Washington and that is a bonafide upper tier running back to hand the ball off to which will make the opposing team respect the play action passing game even more.

Last season the Vikings faced the leagues eighth toughest schedule and this year are tied with Miami and Houston for having the NFLs tenth toughest schedule based on opponents wins/losses from last year. With all the turmoil going on last year Minny still managed to post a record of 6-10 with three of their losses by five or less points and what I like most is the fact that Minny managed to overcome everything, with regard to the Favre issue and the ouster of HC Childress, to go 3-3 straight up coming down the stretch which is something to build on.

The Vikings three seasonal win tallies prior to last season were 13, 10, and 8 games which is an average of 10.3 wins per year, if we include last years result in a four year average we see that Minny still averaged over 9 wins a year in a four year span and was a playoff team in 2008 and 2009. There is way too much talent and pride on this Viking team to not want to rebound from last year, look for new QB McNabb to protect the ball better and improve on Minnys -11 turnover ratio from last year.....OVER 7 regular season wins.

NEW ENGLAND: The Patriots had a darn good season last year in finishing with an overall mark of 14-3 straight up and 10-6-1 ATS, however, if the truth be told a lot of New Englands success last season was built on simply having the right bounces at the right time going their way with regard to finishing the season with an almost unheard of mega +28 turnover margin.

I wanted to see how teams historically have performed the next season following a season like New England had with regard to finishing with +18 or more in turnover margin and found some startling results. For example, since 1990 there have been a total of 19 NFL teams to finish with a turnover margin of +18 or more, 14 of those 19 teams went on to win less games the following season, meanwhile, three teams had a better record and two teams had the same record as the previous year.

Wanting to refine the results a little further I went back and checked on how teams fared the following season after finishing with +20 or more turnovers in a season, I found that over the same span since 1990 there have only been 8 NFL teams to finish with a +20 or more turnover ratio. All eight teams that finished with a +20 ratio lost more games the next season and 4 of the 8 teams finished with a record of 8-8 the next season and here's the kicker...no team since 1990 that had a +20 turnover ratio or more has gone on to win more than 10 games the next season.

New England won a total of 14 games last season, however, four of their fourteen wins were by four or less points. The Patriots will find the going a little tougher this season with out of division road games at improved Oakland, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Denver as well as home dates against San Diego, Dallas, Giants, and Colts. New England usually fields one of the best offensive lines in the NFL and this year will be no different, however, that doesn't change the fact that this is a unit that is getting a little long in the tooth.

To add some depth along the offensive line as well as to start transitioning to new members, the Patriots drafted OT Nate Solder out of Colorado in the first round with the 17th overall pick and then snagged former TCU Horned Frog OG Marcus Cannon with the 138th overall pick. If for some reason Patriot QB Tom Brady goes down and misses any game time the Patriots will be forced to go with third year undrafted free agent back up Brian Hoyer which would not be a good combination with a New England defense that finished last season ranked a shoddy 25th overall and 30th against the pass..translation is that New England needs to score to protect their defense and if Brady goes down I don't think Hoyer has Tom Bradys skill set.....UNDER 11.5 regular season wins.

ATLANTA: The Falcons won the NFC South last season after finishing 13-3 during the regular season, Atlanta also earned a first round bye and homefield advantage for last years playoff round, however, that didn't help them one iota as Green Bay came to Atlanta and exposed the Falcons in a 48-21 drubbing that wasn't even as close as the score might indicate as Green Bay had more first downs 28 to 15, more total yards 442 to 194, and won the TOP (time of possession) battle by a whopping 38:19 to 21:41 difference.
Atlanta was an enigma last year as they somehow managed to finish 13-3 with the NFLs 14th ranked toughest slate of games, however, a closer look-see reveals that these Falcons must have had lady luck shining on them all season long with regard to winning six games by 6 or less points and doing so with a middle of the pack offense and a middle of the pack defense that both finished with a middle of the pack 16th overall ranking. Final regular season statistics show that the Falcon offense averaged 341.19 total yards per game while the Falcon defense allowed on average 332.44 total yards per outing.

How does a team win 13 games during the regular season when their offense only gains 8.75 more yards per game on average than their defense allows? By getting the bounces, thats how. Atlanta finished the regular season with a +14 turnover ratio which allowed them to win games they probably should have lost. During their opening playoff game last year against Green Bay these Falcons didn't get the bounces as they lost the T/O battle 4 to 1 and got smoked 48-21.

Divisional rival New Orleans should re-take this division this season, the Tampa Bay Bucs are on the rise after posting a 10-6 record last year, however, Tampa Bay was another team that had lady luck shining on them with regard to having exactly half their wins (five wins) coming by 3 or less points and finishing with a +9 in T/O ratio. Carolina has to improve on a 2-14 season as they have nowhere to go but up. The Falcons have tough out of division road games at Chicago, at Detroit, at Indy, and at Houston along with tough out of division games when they host Philly, Green Bay, and Minnesota. I really can't see these Falcons winning any more than nine games this season.....UNDER 10.5 regular season wins.

Take care and be well my friend.

Jim

Jim Campbell runs http://www.FootballForecastor.com which has been an internet based sports handicapping service since 1997, you will be hard pressed to find another handicapper that has had the kind of success Jim has had, over the past twelve years he has maintained one of the very best winning percentages of any sports handicapping service.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Campbell
http://EzineArticles.com/?NFL-Teams-to-Watch-for-2011-2012&id=6509111


For all of your online event schedule and event ticket needs check out NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find a large selection of NFL Football and other Sports event schedules and event tickets.

Details On The Blue Man Group Act

By Allison Felix

The Blue Man Group Performance in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Blue Man Group act is the biggest and baddest of them all. After all, Vegas does everything a little bigger and a little better. This show is not only a sensational hit, but a staple as well and goes up against some of the biggest Vegas acts. The act is extra lavish in the Venetian Theatre, which was built just for this spectacular act. With a 1,760-seat audience, you'll understand what keeps the house packed.

Get Excited About Your Blue Man Group Tickets
What's hip about the Blue Man Group show in Las Vegas? Actually, too much to mention, but here's a brief list:

• Gut-busting comedy
• Grand costumes
• Enchanting music
• Amazing tricks
• Funky props
• Dancing and partying
• Audience interaction
• Awe-inspiring ambience
• Family friendly
• Thought-provoking

Just when you think you have seen it all, this production gives you something you have never seen before. The music is unique in its ability to not only allow you to see the show but actually feel it.
It runs through you and connects you to the adventure on stage. The electrifying music is sure to get you going. If you thought the blue costumes were wild and interesting enough, you'll be enthralled once you see the Vegas costumes. Big, colorful headdresses, feather boas and even some showgirl outfits!

Popular Attractions
What makes this show such a popular attraction? Everything, but here's a few:

• The great reputation of the performance
• Influence on popular culture
• Affordable dinner and package shows

The production has such a great reputation that there's not a night when the house isn't filled up completely. Don't you want to be like all the other popular, beautiful people?

The show offers packages that you just cannot beat. You get a party, food, entertainment and an experience you'll never forget.


Finding Blue Man Group Tickets in Las Vegas?
You can get tickets for this awesome number easily online. Of course, Blue Man Group tickets are also sold at the Venetian. It doesn't matter where you go, just go get your tickets now!


Encouraging Audience Reviews
What do audience members have to say about the Blue Man Group shows in Las Vegas? Nothing, but the most fantastic of things. One viewer said this was an awesome show, a must-see. This viewer gave it two thumbs up and has seen it two times. Another audience member has been so impressed by the show that he has seen it a whopping 4 times.

He even took his hearing-impaired friend who was able to enjoy the totality of the experience as well. Another member said that it was great for the whole family and thought the show and band was amazing. She would definitely see it again. The consensus was this is a great show - a can't miss.


Products and Memories
Do you want the goodies that only the Las Vegas Blue Man Group show can provide? When you purchase a package, you can get a two-course dinner at a fine dining restaurant of your choice, including Italian, French and Japanese. Or choose from a wide array of family packages. No matter what you choose, you're choosing a great time when you buy your Blue Man Group tickets.

Have a goodnight out around town watching the numerous offered top of the line Las Vegas shows and performances.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allison_Felix
http://EzineArticles.com/?Details-On-The-Blue-Man-Group-Act&id=6512572


To help with your online event ticket needs visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find a wide selection of Las Vegas Show event schedules and event tickets including Blue Man Group schedules and tickets both in Las Vegas and elsewhere.

Get Event Tickets Before They Sell Out

By Dane Hillery

Concert tickets are mainly sold or bought to give individuals an opportunity to go and watch their favorite artist performing live on stage, watch their favorite movies. Watch their favorite football much among other reasons. The concert tickets on sale could be sold by either the owner or a broker. Concert tickets can be sold at face value.

The best live events are only sold when an event is some months away and the can be bought or sold online. In this scenario one will be required to log into the internet where he/ she will be able to buy this tickets. When online, you will be required to the site that offers information on the up coming concerts using either the date, the owner (celebrity, artist etc), the name of the concert or the place where the concert will be held.

This way you will be able to get your ticket if you have any interest of attending the concert be it sport, comedy, art, theater or the family concerts. These hard to find events sale could also be sold by a broker who could be doing this work online or by placing a store where the concert will be held. He/she can also sell the concert ticket from offices placed in all provinces, districts, divisions and other ticketing offices.

Due to this strategic location, you can be able to get your event tickets within your locality thus reducing on your spending through traveling to get these tickets.

The various tickets for various concerts are sold day in day out. But the most sold out sports events are the football tickets. The reason being there are many football games and the football fans are even on the increase.

These football sporting events are sold in safe, reachable and affordable markets. You can get a sit in the concert room or stadium depending on the value of your ticket. This means that the amount of your money does matter at times when buying the concert tickets. But this is not necessarily so as at time you can sit anywhere and especially during the music performance concerts.

The events do differ and there are differences in the sitting arrangements for the various concerts. For instance, I case of the open air music performance there are sitting arrangements unlike in theatre performances where concert tickets are sold and bought according to the sitting arrangements. This means that there are seats reserved for the various people depending on which sports event you bought.

Concert tickets for sale are therefore available and can be bought depending on the amount of money you have. You can also get them online or from concert ticket kiosks near you. You can also get any information about any upcoming concerts and where to get the concert tickets for these concerts. Through online information you can get the tickets you want and the upcoming events. This will enable you to buy he concert tickets being sold either online or being sold by the concert brokers.

For more articles, information, and resources click here Oklahoma Web Marketing

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dane_Hillery
http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Event-Tickets-Before-They-Sell-Out&id=3612093

To help with your online event ticket needs visit NutzforStuff Event Promotions where you will find a wide selection of Sports, Concerts, Theater, Stage Shows, and Las Vegas Show event schedules and event tickets.