What We Learned From Week 11

• We start locally with the Giants and their mishap to the Eagles. It was the G-men's second straight loss in what looks like another second-half swoon for this football team. With a win the Giants not only could have landed themselves in comfortable playoff position for the final six games but also all but eliminate Philly from a playoff push. Now Big Blue will have to contend with not only the Eagles but also a Dallas Cowboys team which has played better than their 6-4 record. With the Giants, their next three games (@New Orleans, Green Bay, and @Dallas) could truly define if Big Blue will play deep into January or end abruptly.

• Speaking of local, that brings us a team that has more problems than the injury-plaqued Giants and that's the Jets. Gang Green began Week 11 in Denver and became the latest victim of "Tebow Time" as Gang Green's defense could not do anything right on the Broncos last and game winning drive. That loss leaves the Jets at 5-5 and in the span of just 2 weeks has turned this team from a potential AFC East winner to a possible no-show come postseason. The latter seems more realistic today and why not, 11 weeks into this season the true Jets have shown themselves for all of 5 quarters (the 4th against San Diego in week 7 and all game against Buffalo in week 9) What exactly has Gang Green showned you to feel confident they can turn it around? QB = inconsistent, RB's = not where they should be, Offensive Line = bad, Entire Defense = inconsistent.

• Finally, week 11 was the week of the backup player. Three second-string players really defined why.

1. Vince Young, QB, Eagles: Hey it wasn't the best performance but for a QB who hasn't started a game in almost one calender year (November 21, 2010) he did something that Philly has had a tough time with in 2011: taking a 4th quarter lead and holding on to it. And it was Young who led the Eagles on that go-ahead 18 play, 80 yard drive that took roughly 9 minutes off the clock and eventually resulted in the game-winning TD.
2. Michael Bush, RB, Raiders: It's always going to be difficult to replace a RB who is 5th in the league in yards per attempt in Darren McFadden who has been nursing a sprained right foot for the past three weeks but Bush has stepped into his shoes and done quite well. Including last week's effort: 30 rush, 109 yards and a TD in Oakland's win over Minnesota. When McFadden returns look for a real duo in these two.
3. Kevin Smith, RB, Lions: Since the injury to Detroit's top back Jahvid Best, the team has been looking for some efficient run game. Well they got that from Kevin Smith who really struggled to stay with the team. But he showed a burst of speed and ran for 140 yards and added 61 through the air. A big reason why the Lions were able to complete their comeback against Carolina.

-Johnny Montalbano

-Follow Johnny on Twitter @MontalbanoNY and listen to his analysis of the week that was and the week that will be on "Review & Preview" Wednesday's from 5-6pm on WCWPSports.org

Survivor Series/Wrestling Blog

This may seem to be a bit jaded considering who watched it from home last night, but Survivor Series and being live from Madison Square Garden was pretty damn good for the dollar I paid for. I'm not gonna review the entire show but what you take out of this event more-so than most events is the atmosphere, the angles, and just getting to embrace the feeling I got even with no voice (allergies).

I was really hoping to see Ryder as a last minute add in to the US Title match at the start of the show but for what Morrison provided as the struggling babyface, getting the upperhand and almost pulling it out really must have made Joe Schmidt very, very happy to see. I was smiling at the end and still, Dolph Ziggler is still the man. Great way to start off the show on a hot note.

The comedown match next with the Divas title match was to be expected. Beth worked hard despite Eve's lack of ability. A decent enough match for the time it was given. Just with it being Survivor Series and all and the Lumber jills out for christ sake, Why not just make it a traditional womens survivor series match. That was my complaint. Thus, I am a fan of the relic and Survivor Series format as a whole but suffice to say, it didn't happen.

It is soooooooooo execellent just listening to the Rock give a promo. I had goosebumps trying to listen to it and I was in the arena. I was chanting the Lady Parts and New York, New York chants along with the rest of the crowd. (Classy note: WWE Fans > TNA Fans in vocabulary & diction).

Survivor Series format match was next and while I missed a chunk of this match to get the girlfriend some Lemonade, Sin Cara's injury did look pretty ugly. Dolph's exit was expected with having wrestle two matches in one night and getting attacked by Ryder. Sheamus getting disqualified was annoying but a throwback to the classic survivor series matches when most guys would get eliminated. Orton worked really well with Cody, Barrett, and I loved the moments Hunico got involved in the match. I want more Hunico! I was also chanting with the crowd for more Cody also. Orton fought against the odds but Barrett winning was excellent as he really deserves the push. I'd love to see Barrett and other younger talent be phased in more to the upper tier spots while the big muscular guys and older vets get treated the door policy.

Cotton candy time. I can't believe you stick a frilly NY Rangers Santa hat on a stick with a bag of Cotton Candy and it's 10 dollars! That's NYC and MSG pricing to you folks. Also back to the Lemonade bit from before. I was really pissed they wouldn't let me put a cap on that cup. I was expecting to drop it and stumble and lose my entire 7 dollar drink....Criminals if you ask me.

Mark Henry & Big Show match was slow but really to be expected. I was digging the match personally as I've been a big fan of Mark Henry since he's gone to SmackDown. The Big Show Macho Man Elbow Drop was one of the signature highlights of the night. Surprised that didn't put Henry away. The DQ finish was a let down but with the chair, it plays into the next PPV to end 2011, TLC. The crowd wanted Daniel Bryan to come out but I wanted him to stay in the back and keep to his WrestleMania promise. Trust me, the fans will be digging him for Mania and it'll be worth it in the end. #Newstar

I'm glad we got the DQ finish in the last match as the WWE Title match really stole the show. The workrate from both Del Rio and CM Punk was excellent beyond words as we were really into wanting CM Punk to win the title. The finishing sequence really paid off and most likely we'll get one more match between the two at TLC but what CM Punk has done should have the WWE convinced by now that they have their next Top babyface that can and SHOULD replace Cena. #Turncenaheelalready

The Main Event was up next and we all knew that the Rock would show up here and he did. I was stunned he was able to pull off those arm drags so crisply. Rock was the ring general I expected him to be and that really showed up in this match without the Rock really taking any bumps. Hogan took more bumps at BFG than the Rock at Survivor Series. Shocker of 2011 right there folks. Then we got Cena doing the majority of the selling setting up for the hot tag when everybody in MSG just wanted to see The Rock. Throw Cena to the side and let The Rock do his magic. The Rock is on another pedastool to the rest of the WWE Roster it's not even a joke and it should be with his legendary status. The Rock got the pin and made it look easy which is how they built it up since this match would be announced.

All in all after attending two very different wrestling events on two consecutive Sunday's, the crowd's the venues and hell, even the cities were different between what the WWE put on compared to Chikara but as a wrestling fan I enjoyed both events equally. Two very different circumstances with Eddie Kingston/Quack for the Grand Championship & Rock wrestling in the Main Event of 2011 but I found the 10 year old in me excited every bit just being in MSG as I was the 22 year old at Chikara. For the pure wrestling ability, Chikara topped WWE but the sheer spectacle and it being MSG and the Rock and CM Punk and Big Show's top rope elbow drop, the WWE Topped Chikara. being on LI, I have this luxury of getting to see these events where I know it's difficult for everybody else around the world that has a different happenstance. I'm just glad I'm a wrestling fan and it's a passion of mine that I know will never go away whether it's 2011 or 2050. Nor would I want it to.

I'm Nick Malone and I'm a wrestling fan!

P.S: OTR will be doing a special pre-record (If my voice) ever gets better this Tuesday night that will not be aired live from 5-7, but aired on Thursday night during our normal and regular time slot of 7-9 on Thanksgiving. Also, we will be open for any and all callers that want to call in at 1-516-299-2790 that want to discuss Survivor Series/Raw/Anything in Wrestling.

Who's To Blame?

No Super Bowl. No playoffs. A .500 record to show. This is what team the New York Jets are at this very moment. So let's point fingers; whose shoulders should this mediocre play fall on for a team that has reached back-to-back AFC Championship Games?

First and foremost, offensive coordinator Brian Shottenheimer is becoming more and more predictible week after week. If I know what play is coming next on the couch at home (or from my phone at Bed Bath & Beyond), don't you think that a defensive coordinator will know what play is coming next? Teams gameplan and watch film ALL week long to try and figure out what the offense will throw at them come Sunday (or Thursday...or Monday). You look at successful teams like the Patriots, they love to mix up the playbook. Granted, they have the best QB in the game to do so, but the Patriots run a lot of different plays ranging from short, quick screens to the deep threat 40 yards down the field. They also give a variety of different looks, and constantly change the pace and speed of the game; something Peyton Manning was excellent at.

Both QB's could effectively run a no-huddle offense, as well as also take several minutes off the board with long drives. So how does this circle back to the Jets? Shottenheimer is the most vanilla play-caller in the league (although Giants fans may disagree), and it doesn't help a young QB like Mark Sanchez that the defense pretty much knows what the play is before it happens.

Next, the offensive line. It starts up front. The big fellas MUST protect their quarterback, and this unit has done a horrendous job all year in doing that for Sanchez. RT Wayne Hunter, who for some reason was signed to an extension in the offseason, has been atrocious all-year, giving the Sanchise no time to breathe back in the pocket. A fun fact, after the Jets' miserable loss on Thursday night to the Bronocs, something interesting was trending on Twitter. No, not Tim Tebow. Or "Tebow Time." No, what was trending on Twitter was Wayne Hunter. Yes, the offensive lineman for the Jets was trending across the country. If that doesn't point out how bad this line has been, I don't know what will.

To think that the offensive line was actually the strength for the Jets for the last couple of years is ironic. LG Alan Faneca was let go a couple years ago (a move I still haven't gotten over), and RT Damien Woody was also let go in "cost-cutting" decisions. Well, the Jets must be real glad they saved that money now that their offensive line is average at best.

Okay, here's the part you've been waiting for me to say: Mark Sanchez. It's been speculated within the Jets most recent loss that ancient, backup QB Mark Brunell should start ahead of Sanchez because of his poor play. And to all of those who say that, I simply shake my head because no response is needed. Brunell at this point in his career is simply a "mentor" and keeps Sanchez entertained on the sideline. We're not living in 1998.

Of course Sanchez has to improve his play. He knows that. Rex Ryan knows that. We all know that. His last couple games have been rough, and I acknowledge that. His interceptions this year have been very costly. He has been throwing less than the last couple years, but this year, they are coming at the wrong times. Look at last week versus Denver: the pick-six he threw was absolutely dreadful and he should be embarrassed for that throw. I know I was.

But unlike most fans and people in the media, I really don't think that Sanchez is the MAIN cause of the Jets problems. By the way, look at the running backs on the roster. It almost feels like a monumental achievement when the Jets run for more than five yards at a time. Shonne Greene has been underwhelming this season, and LaDainian Tomlinson is unfortunately a third-down receiver out of the backfield and a solid pass protector at this point. Throw in Joe McKnight and Bilal Powell. Not too many QB's would be having tremendous success when the RB's aren't helping to move the chains.

To sum this rant off, defenses don't need to blitz, and they don't need to worry about stacking the box. Defenses can stop the run because the runners of the Jets run into brick walls two yards into the line of scrimmage. Therefore, Sanchez sees a sea of defenders all over his receivers. Also remember, the Sanchise has NO time to make any decisions with an awful O-Line. Go back to Sanchez's first season. Thomas Jones was a solid back, and was a legitimate threat in the backfield. The O-Line made the team successful, and gave Sanchez the opportunity to be successful because it gave him the ability to do what he does best: play-action passing and rolling out to pass. Without a good running game, a QB like Sanchez takes the heat. In my opinion, it's unfair for Sanchez to receive ALL the blame. Does he have to improve? Of course. But first, give him an offensive coordinator that knows what he's doing, a solid offensive line, and a successful running game. Then we'll talk.

-David Otero

Catch David Otero on the Sportswire on Tuesdays from 6-7 pm on 88.1 FM and Wcwp.org, and follow him on Twitter @David_ODog.

Fantasy Cover 2 for Week 11 by Patrick Creighton

November 16, 2011

It was an ugly week for QBs in week 10, as three starting QBs suffered serious injuries, two of whom that are prominent QBs in the league.

Michael Vick suffered a pair of broken ribs on the second play of the game last week, and his performance suffered badly. Vick didn't practice Wednesday and is not expected to play vs. the NFL's top sack defense, the NY Giants. Owners should grab Vince Young asap as insurance, not just for this week, where Young is expected to start, but for the rest of the season. Vick's rib injury could keep him out more than one week, and could affect his performance as the season goes on. Reuben Frank of CSN Philly reports that Mike Kafka will only play if Young is injured. Jeremy Maclin also didn't practice, as he is dealing with a sprained AC joint in his shoulder according to Geoff Mosher. If Maclin doesn't practice by Friday, it would indicate that he will not play this week, and could indicate his injury is more serious than what has been currently revealed. Jason Avant and Steve Smith (who had an awful game vs AZ Sunday) would see more PT if Maclin can't go. DeSean Jackson is expected to play and should be started in all formats.


Matt Schaub suffered what is likely to be a season ending injury to his foot. Matt Leinart gets the reigns in Houston, so you should expect a run heavy offense centered on Arian Foster and Ben Tate as a result. Desperate owners can take a flier on Leinart but set your expectations accordingly, as Leinart has been a major bust since entering the league. T. Y. Yates is now the backup. The 5th rd pick impressed in preseason and if Leinart bombs, he's shown enough in preseason for HC Gary Kubiak to consider going to him. Andre Johnson says he will be back Week 12 according to Nick Scurfield. Its still one more missed game for him, but considering he has not been as optimistic on his return date as Kubiak has, his assertion should be taken with strong validity.

Matt Cassel underwent surgery on his throwing hand Monday according to the Kansas City Star. He is likely out for the year. Tyler Palko takes over for the Chiefs. He went undrafted in 2007, mostly due to the fact he doesn't have a strong arm and he was a scrambler. Palko could have a short leash with 5th rd pick Ricky Stanzi waiting in the wings. Downgrade all Chiefs offensive players.

According to a ProFootballTalk report on NBCSports.com, Denver's Willis McGahee sounded confident he would play Thursday vs. the Jets. Follow reports tomorrow for more info but temper your expectations. He's banged up and will likely face 8 and 9 man fronts from the Jets all day. Lance Ball becomes a must add this week as he becomes the #2 RB with Knowshon Moreno going on IR. In Denver's run heavy attack, he could get double digit touches, and there's still the possibility McGahee either doesn't play or gets a lighter load. HC John Fox has already admitted he can't run a traditional offense with Tim Tebow, but acknowledges Tebow is a "special player" and will continue to run the option offense with him at QB.

The Jets have already declared Jeremy Kerley and LaDainian Tomlinson out for this week. Patrick Turner is expected to join the roster from the practice squad, but realistically won't be much of a threat. Expect the Jets to remember who Dustin Keller is this week. Joe McKnight will be the backup RB according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. This could be an opportunity for McKnight to showcase his wares, as Shonn Greene has not excelled and his pass catching skills remain suspect.


Ryan Mathews was a full participant in practice Wednesday & insisted he is healthy per a Michael Gehlken report. He's gotten extra rest since the Chargers' loss to Oakland on Thursday. SD faces the Bears this week. Chicago's defense on the season hasn't been great at stopping other team's RBs in the yardage dept, they have been playing better as of late. Mathews is a decent RB2 this week. Malcom Floyd shouldn't be expected to play this week. HC Norv Turner conceded Floyd's non participation in practice Wednesday is a sign Floyd isn't likely to play this week. Rookie Vincent Brown has played well the past 2 weeks in his stead and will continue to get reps in Floyd's absence.


Matt Forte was limited in practice Wednesday with a shoulder injury but is expected to play. Start him with confidence.

Sam Bradford was a full participant in practice Wednesday, and appears to be over his high ankle sprain. He should be able to get back in a rhythm vs. suspect Seattle pass defense. Being at home should help, it will be Bradford's first home game since week 4. He's a low end QB2 but his budding chemistry with Brandon Lloyd gives both of them upside.


Doug Baldwin was limited in practice today after suffering from a concussion, but HC Pete Carroll believes he has a good chance to play this week vs a weak St. Louis defense. Still, you should be able to do better. Tarvaris Jackson was also a limited participant Wednesday per a John Boyle report, but its expected to be precautionary. Jackson has been very inconsistent which makes it hard to trust him despite the favorable matchup. He's an iffy start as a QB2. Sidney Rice still needs medical clearance to play vs. St Louis as he also recovers from a concussion, though he was a limited participant in practice Wednesday. Carroll is optimistic Rice will play. With the matchup hes a decent WR3.

According to the Arizona Republic, Kevin Kolb "didn't look close to being ready to play". Expect more John Skelton vs SF. Hes a low end QB2. Beanie Wells didn't practice Wednesday. Wells has been a trooper playing through a knee injury the last 2 weeks but its clearly affected his performance. Cards could just be resting him to get him as close to healthy as they can for Sunday's matchup vs San Francisco's top ranked run D.


Frank Gore didn't practice today per a Matt Barrows report, and should be expected to have a light practice week. HC Jim Harbaugh still expects Gore to play but indicated his workload could be lighter than normal. Owners should pick up Kendall Hunter as insurance.


Jacoby Ford isn't expected to play this week per a San Francisco Chronicle report. There is no timetable for his return. HC Hue Jackson said Darren McFadden is "making huge progress" in his recovery from a foot sprain per the Chronicle. DMC is still considered a long shot to play this week. He is out of the walking boot, but week 12 looks like best bet for a return. Michael Bush will continue to start in McFadden's stead.

Josina Anderson reports that Jahvid Best still has not been cleared yet for football activities, and there's still no timetable for his return. Maurice Morris will continue to start. Matt Stafford appeared to have no problems throwing the ball in practice Wednesday & took his usual number of snaps with the first team offense according to the Detroit Free Press. He should be fine for this week's matchup vs Carolina.

Harry Douglas was limited in practice Wednesday with a thigh injury, though he's expected to play Sunday. He could start if Julio Jones is unable to overcome his hamstring injury. Jones did not practice at all Wednesday according to a D. Orlando Ledbetter report. Follow his status this week, but if he doesn't practice by Friday he won't play.

Hakeem Nicks is not on the Giants injury report. If his over the shoulder catch in the 4th quarter last week vs SF wasn't enough evidence, start him with confidence. Mario Manningham was limited in practice Wednesday, but assuming no setbacks, he will play this week vs. Philly. He's a fine WR3. Ahmad Bradshaw isn't expected to play this week according to Mike Garofalo. Brandon Jacobs will start for the 3rd straight game and is a decent RB2 vs Eagles.

David Nelson missed practice Wednesday according to Joe Buscaglia, but Nelson said it was just a rest day. If Stevie Johnson can't go, Nelson would be the Bills' top WR. Johnson didn't practice Wednesday either, & isn't certain to play vs Miami this week. He suffered a shoulder injury late last week vs. Dallas. There's no structural damage, so check his status through Friday. Again, no practice by Friday = not playing.


Ryan Grant didn't practice Wednesday according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. No injury was listed, but he's clearly the #2 guy behind James Starks in the Packers pass happy offense. He isn't worth starting.

Montario Hardesty missed practice Wednesday according to Nate Ulrich. He's recovering from a torn calf, so expect Chris Ogbonnaya to continue to start this week.

Felix Jones returned to practice on a limited basis for the Cowboys Wednesday, but is now the clear cut #2 to DeMarco Murray. He's not worth starting.


AJ Green says he will be a game time decision this week according to the Bengals official twitter account. An MRI on his knee showed a bone bruise but no structural damage. If he can't go, Jerome Simpson and Jermaine Gresham should see more targets.



Lee Evans says he will be a game time decision vs Bengals according to Aaron Wilson. He has been out close to two months and would easily be behind both Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith on the depth chart, so you should be able to do better this week.


Curtis Painter has regressed so badly over the past 4 games that HC Jim Caldwell is considering changing to Dan Orlovsky. The Indianapolis Star reports that Caldwell would not commit to Painter as his QB in week 12. Throw in the fact Dallas Clark isn't expected back for at least 3 more weeks and there is no timetable for Joseph Addai to return, downgrade (in fact, avoid) all Colts offensive players as the team marches towards 0-16.

Ben Roethlisberger broke his right thumb Sunday according to Scott Brown, but says he will play when Pittsburgh returns from the bye on week 12. Owners may want to pick up Charlie Batch as insurance but Big Ben has a reputation for playing through pain and injury. While his stats could suffer somewhat short term, he's still better than Batch would be. At this time, expect Ben to be ready to go.

Start/Sit questions? Contact me on Twitter @PCreightonWCWP

You can hear Patrick Creighton on The Sportswire Fridays at 6pm on 88.1fm and WCWP.org


Patrick Creighton has appeared on WFAN NY and YES Network, and is the play-by-play voice of C.W. Post Pioneers football. Patrick's next appearance on WFAN is Dec 27th from 2-4am.

RAW Reaction 11/14/11

This week’s three hour edition of Monday Night Raw brought forth much hype going into Survivor Series this Sunday. Unfortunately, by the end of this show, I was exhausted. There’s a lot happening in the WWE on a weekly basis as it is, but when these three hour shows get thrown into the mix, it can get very tedious. However, I was a bit more forgiving, because we got The Rock.

This show certainly didn’t start off on the right foot, because we opened with the Michael Cole Challenge. I’m sorry, but I’m tired of talking about Michael Cole. I’m becoming numb to these segments at this point. It’s never fun to see Jim Ross humiliated on television, but if it really bothered him, don’t you think he’d have stopped showing up by now?

Sin Cara and Kofi Kingston were defeated by Cody Rhodes and Hunico in a random tag match. Cody no longer has the mask, due to what happened on last Friday’s SmackDown. He also has a new theme, which I’m not a fan of. I thought his last theme was great, although his character is going through some developments now, so I understand the thought process behind a new theme. I’m going to miss the “Wooooaaaah!” though. Hunico’s new theme, however, is awesome. I can’t say that enough. Hunico’s new alignment with Epico and Primo on SmackDown is one of the thing that I’m most interested in this company right now. I would have liked to have seen the rest of the group on Raw.

Christian is out of Survivor Series due to an injury, and that means that Dolph Ziggler has been appointed as his replacement for Team Barrett. Does this mean Ryder doesn’t get a US title shot at the PPV? Hopefully Ziggler will have to pull double duty again, because missing out on the opportunity to have Ryder get a title match at MSG would be a crime. Ziggler cut a good promo on this show, but got DQ’ed in his match against Mason Ryan due to Vickie Guerrero slapping Mason.I’ve been very impressed Ziggler over the past few months and I think he’s on his way to moving up the card.

We were treated to a Mick Foley return, which was a fun surprise (although most of us knew he was scheduled for this show anyway). Mick was indeed a sight for sore eyes, although his involvement in this show was certainly questionable. His role as a peacemaker between The Rock and John Cena made sense, but the sequel to the “This Is Your Life” segment came off pretty badly. I have to wonder if it wasn’t purposely terrible, because it sure seemed like that was its intent at times. Cena was certainly not welcome in his home state of Boston, and Foley felt it was his job to fix that “problem”. Not even Mick Foley can get an entire crowd to cheer John Cena, as we found out on this show. The segment ending with The Rock coming out just to deliver a Rock Bottom to Foley and then leaving (Arrive. Rock Bottom. Leave.) was very enjoyable. In fact, every bad segment on this show should end with a random Rock Bottom. It could become like the new Ron Simmons “DAMN!”

The Rock would be back on the show later, but there was much more to occur before that final segment. Sheamus vs. Jack Swagger was a very good TV match, and I’m enjoying the work both of these guys are doing. A good change of pace here, and one of my favorite parts of the show. Sheamus picked up the win after hitting a Brogue Kick.

There would be no Brodus Clay yet again this week. We saw Johnny Ace on the phone with Brodus telling him that he would be overshadowed by The Rock’s return, and they’re going to wait until next week. I’m beginning to this this is becoming some sort of angle. The funny thing is, I’m actually interested to see where they’re going with Brodus. Video packages really are effective in this company.

The Alberto Del Rio/CM Punk title feud hasn’t been doing much for me, although I know that the match will most likely be very good. On this show, we had Del Rio teaming up with Mark Henry to take on their respective challengers at Survivor Series, CM Punk and the Big Show. I would have liked to have seen more emphasis put on the fact that both main champions were teaming together, but it almost seemed to be an afterthought. I thought this match was very good, with Del Rio pinning Punk to pick up the win. They’re heating up Del Rio going into the PPV, which one would hope that they’d be doing. He applied the cross armbreaker to Punk in the post-match, as they were really pushing that he doesn’t want Punk to make it to SS. I predict a title change at the PPV, but after this show, I could see Del Rio possibly keeping it longer. By the way, Mark Henry is awesome and should keep his title until WrestleMania.

The continuation of the Kevin Nash/Triple H angle saw Nash delivering a Jacknife Powerbomb to Santino in a brief segment. I like the fact that they’re getting over Nash’s anger towards Hunter about not being brought back after the reaction he got at the Royal Rumble this year, and these segments haven’t been taking up much time at all. That’s a refreshing change. We’ll see if there’s any Nash/Hunter build at the PPV.

I’m enjoying the Randy Orton/Wade Barrett feud, simply because it elevates Barrett to the spot where I think he should have been all along. For their match on this show, both guys came out with their respective Survivor Series teams. One could easily predict a schmoz finish, and both teams took the the ring causing a DQ. Orton’s team stood victorious at the end. This PPV could be a turning point in how Barrett is booked and perceived in the company.

The final segment saw The Rock delivering a promo as only he can. The Miz and R-Truth were way out of their league here, it’s almost embarrassing how much better The Rock is on the mic. Miz and Truth in general have lost so much steam since being “hired back,” I have very little interest in this tag match at the PPV beyond the fact that The Rock is going to be in it. The Rock/Cena interaction was of course establishing the tension between them. This is just such a sloppy angle on all fronts, I don’t know any other way to say it. The Rock makes up for it, but that’s a given.

Despite some massive problems, I’m very optimistic about Survivor Series, and I certainly look forward to being there live to see The Rock. However, I’d be very pleased if we didn’t get another three hour Raw for a long, long time.

Chris Maffei


Catch Chris Maffei and Nick Malone on Over The Ropes every Thursday night from 7-9PM, right here on WCWPSports.org.

RAW Reaction: 11/07/11

Taped wrestling shows never really excite me. There’s something to be said for live television, no matter how the quality of the shows may fluctuate from week to week. While this week’s edition of Monday Night Raw from Liverpool, England was not especially intriguing, it was actually a pretty decent show with a few enjoyable moments. Let’s reflect...

The first order of business I’d like to address would be the focus of the product going into Survivor Series. Now, Alberto Del Rio is the WWE Champion, but you already knew that. Or did you? It’s pretty easy to forget these days, seeing as how he’s been working mid-card TV matches for the past few weeks. Should the top guy not be protected? He should be, but unfortunately, Del Rio is not the top guy. He’s got a shiny toy belt that says he’s the top guy, but he is far from the focus of this company, let alone the focus of this show. Much of this has to do with the fact that he’s simply not ready. While his in-ring work is very solid, his material is stale and his positioning in terms of importance is nowhere near where it needs to be. CM Punk took it upon himself to point out some of Berto’s flaws this week, such as his one dimensional, fast-forward-the-DVR promos. The bottom line here is that Punk should be taking the title at Survivor Series, just for the sake of actually having an incentive to care about the title picture. I’m not an advocate for playing hot potato with the main title, but the paper champion needs to go, pronto.

The rest of the reason why the WWE Champion is not the main focus of this show has to do with the fact that the PPV they’re building to will feature The Rock and John Cena teaming up against The Miz and R-Truth, and most likely Triple H vs. Kevin Nash. I don’t even need to explain why The Rock is the most important part of Survivor Series succeeding, but I’d really like someone to explain to me why Kevin Nash is even on my TV at this juncture. I’m not against Nash involvement in an angle, but the angle he came back for and the angle he’s involved with now have almost nothing to do with each other. I don’t think there’s any interest for a Hunter/Nash bout, and that’s all there is to it. Are we leading to a “reunion” of some sort? Whatever the case may be, I’d prefer that we didn’t get a Nash shoot every week...

Dear Big Kev,

Punk does it better.

Sincerely,

Everyone.

(Although his “I should have buried Hunter in 1995” tirade was quite amusing...”)

I did mention that there were some positives to this show, and they came in the form of Zack Ryder being booked well. Not only was he booked for the main event again, he actually made it to the ring this week! He was quite over with the Liverpool crowd, and definitely got the rub here just due to the Cena association. I suppose the idea for this main event was for Miz and Truth to get their heat back after Cena single-handedly wafflestomped them to close last week’s show. Well, I guess they accomplished that in theory, but the only interest I actually have for this match at the PPV is the fact that The Rock is involved. I mean, it’s The Rock. I bought my ticket to the event almost entirely based on his presence. I think the show will succeed in terms of buyrates based on that as well, but that’s not to say that the main event couldn’t do with some spicing up.

All in all, a decent Raw before the go-home show next week. And you know what that means...the long awaited television return of BRODUS CLAY! YES!!! Oh, and I think The Rock’s gonna be there as well. Radical.

Chris Maffei
@cmstrike

Catch Chris Maffei and Nick Malone on Over The Ropes every Thursday night from 7-9PM, right here on WCWPSports.org.

Putting The Boots To The Big Guys & Raising the Hand of the 99%

Maybe I shouldn't write this blog when I'm this agitated but I've got something on my mind that can, and should, be corrected. We all remember when CM Punk was the media darling the WWE had right in the palms of their hands after the Money In The Bank (on my birthday no less, July 17th, 2011). It only took 8 days for the WWE to fumble the football to take that special feeling away when Wrestling was cool again. With just 12 days away from one of the signature events of the entire year, WWE Survivor Series, from Madison Square Garden,they still need to convince the consumer on why they should buy this PPV.

What is the appeal?

The tagline to this event was seeing The Rock back in a WWE ring for an actual match for the first time in 7 years teaming with John Cena. Last match he (The Rock) had ironically enough was in Madison Square Garden at WrestleMania 20 with Mick Foley against Evolution in a 3 on 2 handicap match featuring Randy Orton, Ric Flair, and Batista.

For the WWE's point, they've aligned The Rock with John Cena (A guy he can't stand) for the kind of cartoon John Cena has displayed time and time again with the Rainbow colored t-shirts and his appeal to small children. At the last WrestleMania, The Rock helped The Miz retain the WWE Title against John Cena in Atlanta. The next night, Cena and Rock agreed to have a match at WrestleMania 28 in Miami, Rock's hometown and where he will most likely be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as well (Ala Ric Flair around WrestleMania 24).

The Rock can't stand John Cena and John Cena doesn't understand The Rock. It's been rumored that the WWE would even use The Rock on multiple ppv's throughout 2012 dating back to August when the WWE released their 2nd quarter financial reports and involved with Survivor Series in September.

Now that it's down to November and what has the WWE done to make Survivor Series stand out?

Since the WWE finished the 35 days of Hell (3 PPV's in 5 weeks), Mark Henry has been booked to be a monster albeit take disqualifications and match stoppages to maintain his strong push on SmackDown. John Cena, Del Rio, and CM Punk have changed the WWE Title around to make it almost meaningless. Del Rio though has been able to retain the last two times over John Cena because of the interference of Miz & R-Truth. You're off now getting a lineup that looks like this.

Mark Henry vs. Big Show for the World Heavyweight Title
CM Punk vs. Alberto Del Rio for the WWE Title
Team Orton (Randy Orton, Sheamus, Kofi Kingston, Sin Cara, & Mason Ryan) vs. Team Barrett (Wade Barrett, Jack Swagger, Christian, Hunico, & Cody Rhodes)
John Cena & The Rock vs. Two Scared Broomsticks

We've seen The Miz and R-Truth both have their moments to shine in the early part of 2011 with Miz headlining WrestleMania 27 and R-Truth standing out at Capitol Punishment and introducing the Water Bottle of Doom! Sadly, they've been reduced down to comedic fodder and barely a challenge to John Cena on his own. Getting fluke wins won't cut it. To be seen as a viable threat, they need to do something dastardly to get the attention of The Great One.

The WWE still has their one last chance to build interest in that match but there feels like there should have been more done to generate this match seeming to be a big deal. We've had the Muppets and a taped Raw from England delaying that opportunity leaving the WWE little time to make a chance but they can still get that one last push out with the WWE returning home to Boston on Monday for a 3 hour edition of Raw where The Rock will be there live and in person. The Rock needs to make it clear to those watching why we should buy this PPV. What kind of a challenge does the Miz and R-Truth exactly show? because they could be replaced with how forgettable they've been over the last few weeks.

Other matches that could be predicted for Survivor Series with the recent TV storylines include the following below...

Survivor Series Elimination Match: Natalya, Beth Phoenix, Tamina, The Bella Twins (Brie & Nikki) vs. Kelly Kelly, A. Fox, Eve, A.J. & Kaitlyn.
Team Ryder (Zack Ryder, John Morrison, Daniel Bryan, Ezekiel Jackson, & Ted Dibiase) vs. Team Ziggler (Dolph Ziggler, Brodus Clay, Heath Slater, Tyler Reks, Drew McIntyre)
Team NXT vs. Team Superstars


With The WWE on the track they were going on TNA, after Bound For Glory (Sorry for not posting Part 2 on BFG but there was just so much stuff going on even the show after BFG that there was no need to post it), TNA had come off of a very unsatisfying finish for their main event, making the entire Bound For Glory series seem worthless. At this point now, the TNA World Title has changed twice in 3 weeks. James Storm won it on the Impact Wrestling after BFG and Robert Roode won it back 2 weeks later. Problem is that the way they've switched the title here makes the BFG 2012 Main Event seem worthless.

TNA hasn't spent enough time making James Storm or Robert Roode to be main event players yet. Fighting over the TNA World Title is between 2 Tag Team wrestlers. Beer Money will always be one of the greatest Tag Teams that company has ever put together to make both Roode and Storm both stars. It's taken TNA long enough to give the real talent a spotlight to give them a push since both were there when the company originated in 2002.

Problem with TNA was the older veterans taking up the time on Impact Wrestling and the facade in that company was still constructed. There are still kinks in the road but TNA has been smart over the last few weeks to section off Bischoff, Hogan, and Garrett Bischoff into their own section of TV time. If you've come from the WWE or WCW, then TNA would have gladly given that talent the time and day to get TV time that would make no new stars.

The stars TNA should be focusing on and devoting a majority of the TV time to includes the following: AJ Styles, Robert Roode, Kazarian, James Storm, Austin Aries, Alex Shelly, Chris Sabin, Abyss, D'Angel Dinero, Ken Anderson, Christopher Daniels, & Bully Ray. If TNA can focus on that nucleus of guys then they will be on the path to success.


To speak up for the little guys, maybe the best promotion nobody talks about is Chikara. They will be holding their first IPPV event this Sunday, November 13th from Philadelphia, PA at the mecca of independent wrestling, The Asslyum, Ace, ECW, Arena. For those that have ever been to that venue or seen this promotion knows that this event, HIGH NOON, will be a can't miss event. Chikara will be crowning it's first ever Grand Champion in a bout between NY's own, Eddie Kingston against "Lightning" Mike Quackenbush.

There will be a full preview of this event and the WWE, TNA, and DG USA this Thursday on a can't miss show of Over The Ropes with Nick Malone & my partner, Chis Maffei. Also we will be introducing the award categories for the OTR Year End award show special that will air on December 29th, 2011. It's bound to be a fun show.

Till next time,

I'm Nick Malone.

C.W. Post Pioneers vs. UConn Huskies Live Blog

NBA Lockout; Time To Build A Fallout Shelter

by Jason Comack

Howard Beck of the New York Times, who has been covering the lockout wire to wire, tweeted a picture of a sign for a fall out shelter, “no caption necessary” he said.

The NBA's doomsday scenario is just around the corner and a Wednesday deadline for the players to accept the owners offer will likely determine if there will be an NBA season this year.

How did we get to such a dire point? Does it make any financial sense for either side to miss an entire season worth of revenue?

Unfortunately there are more questions then answers at this point. There are some certainties however.

1) If the players considered the decertification option at the beginning of the lockout why did they not decertify?

Compare the NFLPA to the NBAPA. The NFLPA got the votes to decertify as a union from every team before the season even started. They went into lockout negotiations knowing that if they went poorly they could use decertification as leverage. The NFLPA ended up decertifying re-branded as a trade association. They won some landmark cases (importantly that decertification was not a sham) and they lost some. Decertification gave the players a trump card that said “I’m willing to fight this out in court and challenge your [the NFL] anti-trust exemption.” The fight in court never reached a conclusion because the sides reached an agreement and the case was dismissed.

Now look how the NBAPA handled things. According to players, as Deron Williams tweeted, they've been ready to decertify since July! Had they decertified in July they could have been battling this out in court while negotiations were ongoing. They could have used the anti-trust exemption threat just like the NFLPA did. Instead by waiting to decertify now it means fighting it out in courts, essentially guaranteeing the loss of the season. If the season is going to be lost the owners have little reason to return to the negotiating table.

2) Are the owners divided?

While reporters have kept harping on an internal divide amongst union members the real divide is amongst it's owners. James Dolan, Mark Cuban, Micky Arison and Jerry Buss all want to play basketball. They all have championship caliber teams, all of their franchises are profitable and under the current model they feast on small and mid-market teams. After all Micky Arison was fined $500,000 dollars for a tweet that insinuated he's not the owner you should be blaming for the lockout. There's also been reports that Mark Cuban has suggested eliminating the salary cap altogether (something other big market owners would sign off on) and creating a system similar to baseball.

Meanwhile owners like Paul Allen, who despite being the 23rd richest man in America, are desperate to hit the reset button on a system they think is broken. These owners like Allen, Michael Jordan, the Maloff brothers and the Atlanta Hawks ownership group have their own personal motivation. They bought their teams at an inflated price and are rapidly losing money. In the case of Allen he is reportedly looking to sell his team as fast as possible. A CBA that's one sided towards the owners would help him do just that. Michael Jordan, who is the majority owner, of the Bobcats is losing money like crazy. In fact his minority partners are looking to sell there stake of the team. The Maloof brothers are Stern lackeys. They are broke and Stern is the only thing keeping them afloat right now.

The NBA needs 16 owner votes to ratify a deal. Ironically one of those 16 votes will be made by the NBA since they currently own the New Orleans Hornets. The key to this lockout are the swing vote owners. They owners you haven't heard talking much and don't know where they stand. This includes teams like the Magic, Wizards, Celtics, Bulls and so on.

3) Are the players divided?

Much like the owners the players have different agendas. Stars like Bryant and Garnett are financially motivated by different things then guys like Landry Fields and Andy Rautins. In Bryant's case his current contract runs through 2014. It's unlikely he'd even ever sign another big money contract under the new CBA. Meanwhile without the mid-level exception guys like Landry Fields are destined to be under paid (especially if the new CBA contains a harder cap.) Then you have players like Williams, Paul, Howard who are the big free agent class of next year. Whatever the restrictions of the CBA may be (shorter contracts, elimination of the sign and trade, lowering the max deal) might directly affect them more than other member of the players union.

This is how we get to a doomsday scenario. Whether it be due to; stubbornness, poor information, poor leadership or agents meddling the NBA players association has botched negotiations.

The players have yet to realize that they have very little leverage during this negotiation. They haven't decertified, they haven't taken advantage of dividing the owners against themselves. They have yet to present a creative offer to the owners.

What if the players presented this offer. A 50/50 BRI split (which is where we are heading anyway) but winning system issues for the players. What if they tired to win system issues that would not only benefit the players but also the wealthy owners.

Allowing sign and trades, allowing the mid-level exception, proposing a higher luxury tax and so on. The union acts like a higher luxury tax is a deathblow to the players but the truth is we've seen owners willing to pay the tax if they have a chance to compete for a title.

That's an offer Stern could take to his owners and have a shot of passing. The charge would be lead by Cuban, Airson, Dolan to get the necessary other 12 votes (assuming the Hornets would vote yes.)

That's an offer Hunter and Fisher could take to his players and have a chance of passing.

What doesn't make sense for Hunter and Fisher is to lose any more games. That lost revenue is never coming back and when Stern says the owners next offer will be 47% of the BRI he means it. Look at what happened in the NHL lockout. The players held there ground, lost a season and ended up still getting killed in the next CBA.

Hunter has said he's known the lockout has been coming for two years. The reason the season is about to blow up is because Hunter didn't realize he needed to build a fallout shelter.

New York Baseball Off-Season Preview

Its been only a week since the Cardinals improbable run to a World Series title was complete. While the city of St. Louis celebrates their championship, here in New York it's never too early to look forward to Opening Day 2012. So what can we expect the Yankees and Mets to do this offseason?

Lets lead-off with the Yankees.

In terms of the position players, there won't be much that changes. You still will have the same infield with Teixiera, Cano, Jeter, and A-Rod 1st to 3rd. The outfield will remain the same with Gardner, Granderson, and Swisher left to right for another season. Martin behind the plate and Montero as the DH. Your bench will remain the same as well with Cervelli and Nunez the main backups.

One thing the Yanks will have to get is a right-handed hitting outfielder for the bench. Andruw Jones filled that role quite well in 2011, but you look at the list of free-agents OF's and the perfect fit for the Yankees is... Michael Cuddyer. Why? Cuddyer is not only right handed but very versatile. Can play multiple positions and with this team getting older, not younger you need a player like Cuddyer.

Of course starting pitching is important. A week into the offseason and the Yanks have helped themselves big time by locking up C.C. But can Nova duplicate his 2011 success? What about Burnett and Hughes, can they turn around what was a tough 2011? The two SP's you hear the most that are available are Mark Buehrle and C.J Wilson. So who is the better fit for the bombers? It's Buehrle. Yes he won't light up rader guns but he is someone who can give you 200 innings by accident. Also, the lefty has averaged 15 wins a season for his 12 yr career and has tossed two no-hitters. Wilson is not a bad option either. Yes his 2011 postseason wasn't great but he would be a admirable #2 which is what he really is, NOT an ace.

That brings us to the Mets.

A team that can't seem to shake off the injury virus or the collapses of 2007 and 2008. Lets be honest and I know New Yorkers never want to hear these words to describe ANY New York sports team but this team is a "team in transition"

With the Madoff suit and other issues surrounding this team the payroll is rumored to be approx. $100 million. First things first, do not expect Jose Reyes to be on this ball club next year. But who can and can't Mets fans expect to see on the 2012 roster?

Like a bunch of Major League teams this offseason the Mets need pitching, both starting and relievers. The SP market is thin this year but the relievers are full of talent. Expect Santana, Gee, Niese, Dickey and Pelfrey right now because of how weak the SP market looks but if Santana could somehow show signs of the old Johan then that could be the Mets pickup. The farm team does have two up and coming starters in Wheeler and Harvey but they're not ready.

The bullpen needs a dramatic turnover and for a team looking for a closer, there are plenty out there. And if there are none that the Mets are convinced by, one move the Mets should look into is trading Daniel Murphy. I know he is a fan favorite and the team is high on him but there is a big problem, WHAT IS HIS POSITION!? He would make a great DH for an American League squad and in return the Amazin's could get a reliver who could become, well Amazin.

In terms of the position players. Without Reyes and possibly Murphy and with the dimesions of Citi-Field helping the Mets offense expect a healthy Davis and Wright at the corners. Tejada at shortstop and Turner at second. Bay and Duda can patrol Left and Right Field respectively which brings us to center. Pagan is arbitation eligible but better fits for the Mets include Rick Ankiel and yes Grady Sizemore. Sizemore is injury prone but bring him in on an incentive-based contract and like the lottery "Hey you never know" If there is one thing the Mets can get, it's one year wonders out of either nobodys or prior successful players (i.e Valentin, Tatis, Maine, even Perez in '07). But bottomline for the Mets, expect a few tough years before the good times roll back in Flushing.

-Johnny Montalbano

-Follow me on Twitter @MontalbanoNY and listen to me on "Review and Preview" every Wednesday from 5-6pm only on WCWP.org.

RAW Reaction 10/31/11

Sometimes, a little bit of good old fashioned fun is just what pro wrestling needs. In a business that can sometimes take itself too seriously, a little lighthearted fun can really hit the spot. That is why I welcomed The Muppets’ involvement on this week’s episode of Raw, especically after the ultra-serious melodramatic mess that we got last week.

Fortunately, there would be no Triple H/Kevin Nash involvement on this show, just a video package and an update on Hunter’s health. Instead, we opened with a pre-taped promo from The Rock. I know that most people have a gigantic problem with these pre-tapes, but I don’t. At all. The way I see it, pre-taped Rock is better than no Rock. His promo was entertaining regardless, and we kicked off Raw on a good note. At first, Rocky says “Hell no!” to the thought of teaming with John Cena at Survivor Series. However, he eventually rationalizes it due to the fact that he despises The Miz and R-Truth. There’s still not much logic involved in Rock and Cena willingly teaming up, but...whatever. The Rock at Survivor Series can only be a good thing in my mind. I’m sure their heat for WrestleMania will be fine.

We had CM Punk taking on Mark Henry for he right to be granted a WWE title match at SS. I’m sure I don’t even have to explain why I hated the idea of this match taking place. The execution was okay, with Del Rio causing a DQ and Punk to lose his title shot. Builds a little more conflict between them, but not enough, because Punk would get his title shot back later in the night after locking in the Anaconda Vice on Del Rio and forcing it out of him. Not a whole lot of interest for this match at SS as of now.

I’ll get into the Muppet segments now. The initial Kermit/Miss Piggy/Vickie Guerrero/Jack Swagger segment was not particularly good. We got an “EXCUSE ME” match between Miss Piggy and Vickie, which thankfully didn’t last too long. The next Muppet segment was much, much better. Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and Beaker were backstage in Bunsen’s lab. Beaker runs into Christian, who gets chased off by Sheamus, who then tells Beaker that he can’t make it to the family reunion this year, but to tell Aunt Theresa he says hello. Awesome. Just awesome. I’m sure many of us were hoping for Sheamus/Beaker interaction.

Something else I’m sure a lot of us predicted was Statler and Waldorf in the balcony. These short segments were mildly amusing, but it was more enjoyable just to see them there than anything. We also got the obligatory Hornswoggle/Muppet interaction, kissing Miss Piggy on the cheek and getting punched in the stomach.

The Divas costume battle royal was a waste of a few minutes, Beth was annoying on commentary as usual. Air Boom vs. Cody Rhodes and Wade Barrett was not bad in terms of work, although Cody and Wade seem a bit random together. Alberto Del Rio vs. Big Show was long and boring. Not sure why we needed this.

Jack Swagger vs. Santino had by far the best Muppet involvement of the night, with Beaker coming to ringside to give Santino a beaker of his “energy drink” to spit in Swagger’s face and pick up the win. It shall be known forever as the “Muppet Screwjob”. Zack Ryder vs. Dolph Ziggler was booked very well in my opinion, with Ryder picking up the win, along with a bunch of momentum. It’s always great to see Dolph get a good chunk of ring time on TV. The Cole/Jim Ross saga really isn’t worth worrying about. Jim Ross will continue to be humiliated and Michael Cole will continue to hinder the product.

Finally, let’s talk about the main event that saw Cena taking on The Miz...and laying out Miz and R-Truth to end the show. Cena standing triumphantly over his Survivor Series opponents has to make you wonder why it’s even necessary for him to be teaming up with Rock to take these two on at the PPV, he’s already taken them out by himself. Furthermore, there’s no real consequences for the outcome of the SS tag match. Are they even trying anymore? I understand throwing Rock on the PPV, but there are many different ways they could have gone about it. The current situation not only makes no sense, but is just plain boring.

Overall, a pretty decent show. The Muppet provided a bit of much needed silliness, although I do feel that we were robbed of a Triple H/Gonzo segment...

Chris Maffei

@cmstrike

Catch Chris Maffei and Nick Malone on Over The Ropes every Thursday night from 7-9PM, right here on WCWPSports.org.