FRIDAY FOOTBALL PICKS!!!
Last week: 9-6-1 record. That puts me at 118-118-7 for the year--exactly at .500. Can I get over the mediocrity line????
ATLANTA vs Tampa Bay (off the board). My pick: FALCONS. Atlanta is finishing strong; Tampa Bay--not so much.
BUFFALO 3.5 over NY Jets. My pick: BILLS. Can the Jets QB situation be any more messed up?
Chicago 3 over DETROIT. My pick: BEARS. Chicago still with something to play for; the Lions? All messed up.
CINCINNATI 2.5 over Baltimore. My pick: BENGALS. They beat the Steelers last week, and banished that ghost (of almost never beating Pittsburgh); now they can banish another one.
DENVER 16 over Kansas City. My pick: CHIEFS. Denver will win, but 16 is too many points.
Green Bay 3 over MINNESOTA. My pick: PACKERS. The Vikings have done a masterful job of hiding Christian Ponder's liabilities. But you can only do that for so long; Aaron Rodgers will show how valuable a good QB is.
Houston 7 over INDIANAPOLIS. My pick: TEXANS. The Colts are locked into the 5th playoff spot; the Texans seek home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
NEW ENGLAND 10 over Miami. My pick: PATRIOTS. At home, Tom Brady and co. will seek to come back strong from last week's clunker win over Jacksonville.
NEW ORLEANS 5 over Carolina. My pick: SAINTS. Drew Brees and co. are finishing strong and with pride.
NY GIANTS 7.5 over Philadelphia. My pick: GIANTS. What has happened to the Giants? But the Eagles have too many holes.
PITTSBURGH vs Cleveland (off the board). My pick: STEELERS. They have too much pride to lose again to the Browns.
SAN DIEGO vs Oakland (off the board). My pick: CHARGERS. Philip Rivers and co. are finishing strong for Norv Turners; but...it will be too late to help him.
SAN FRANCISCO 16.5 over Arizona. My pick: CARDINALS. The Niners will win; but usually in the NFL, this is too many points.
SEATTLE 10.5 over St. Louis. My pick: SEAHAWKS. Boy, are the 'Hawks tough at home.
TENNESSEE 4 over Jacksonville. My pick: TITANS. Because someone has to win.
WASHINGTON 3 over Dallas. My pick: REDSKINS. I expect this to be a close, entertaining, hard-fought battle for the division title; but one just has to doubt the ability of the Dallas defense to slow down RGIII and co.
I'll pick some bowl games early next week...
Friday, December 28, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
FRIDAY FOOTBALL PICKS!!!
The holiday version! Let's see how I do this week; I'll keep my reasoning very short, sweet, and pithy. :+)
Last week's record: 9-7. Record for the year: 109-112-6.
NFL PICKS
Atlanta 3.5 over DETROIT. My pick: FALCONS. Only 3 and 1/2???? Lions in disarray; Falcons heading to the playoffs strong.
GREEN BAY 12.5 over Tennessee. My pick: TITANS. Too many points; Titans can keep it closer.
CAROLINA 8.5 over Oakland. My pick: PANTHERS. Because even out of the playoffs, the Panthers can still bite.
MIAMI 4.5 over Buffalo. My pick: DOLPHINS. Buffalo won't be able to stop the run.
PITTSBURGH 3.5 over Cincinnati. My pick: STEELERS. Because Big Ben almost always beats Bengals; Cincy needs to prove they can win a big game like this...but haven't shown evidence of it yet.
New England 14.5 over JACKSONVILLE. My pick: PATRIOTS. Usually this would be too many points; but not with Tom Brady and how this offense can get it going.
Indianapolis 7 over KANSAS CITY. My pick: COLTS. Indy has a lot to play for; KC can't score.
DALLAS 3 over New Orleans. My pick: SAINTS. Yes, the Cowboys have come on, but...that defense still has big holes, and Drew Brees, playing with a lot of pride, will score points in this one.
Washington 6.5 over PHILADELPHIA. My pick: REDSKINS. Kirk Cousins, RGIII...both can lead this offense; but this week it's RGIII, back from his injury, and so the 'Skins are in even better shape.
TAMPA BAY 3 over St. Louis. My pick: RAMS. Just a gut feeling; 2 teams coming off highly disappointing weeks...look for Jeff Fisher to get his Rams to respond.
HOUSTON 8 over Minnesota. My pick: VIKINGS. 8 just seems like a lot of points here, especially with Adrian Peterson doing his thing...Vikes to keep it close.
DENVER 13 over Cleveland. My pick: BRONCOS. Usually this would be too many points; but not with this Broncos offense and defense clicking, and fighting for home field advantage.
Chicago 5.5 over ARIZONA. My pick: BEARS. They still have something to play for, and surely won't turn it over like the Lions did last weekend.
San Francisco 1 over SEATTLE. My pick: 49ERS. A terrific game, should be close...I just think San Francisco has a bit more experience in games like this.
NY JETS 2.5 over San Diego. My pick: CHARGERS. But who knows with these 2 teams? I just suspect the Chargers were embarrassed last week in their loss and will want to play...while the Jets' offense continues to implode (Greg McElroy is no savior).
The holiday version! Let's see how I do this week; I'll keep my reasoning very short, sweet, and pithy. :+)
Last week's record: 9-7. Record for the year: 109-112-6.
NFL PICKS
Atlanta 3.5 over DETROIT. My pick: FALCONS. Only 3 and 1/2???? Lions in disarray; Falcons heading to the playoffs strong.
GREEN BAY 12.5 over Tennessee. My pick: TITANS. Too many points; Titans can keep it closer.
CAROLINA 8.5 over Oakland. My pick: PANTHERS. Because even out of the playoffs, the Panthers can still bite.
MIAMI 4.5 over Buffalo. My pick: DOLPHINS. Buffalo won't be able to stop the run.
PITTSBURGH 3.5 over Cincinnati. My pick: STEELERS. Because Big Ben almost always beats Bengals; Cincy needs to prove they can win a big game like this...but haven't shown evidence of it yet.
New England 14.5 over JACKSONVILLE. My pick: PATRIOTS. Usually this would be too many points; but not with Tom Brady and how this offense can get it going.
Indianapolis 7 over KANSAS CITY. My pick: COLTS. Indy has a lot to play for; KC can't score.
DALLAS 3 over New Orleans. My pick: SAINTS. Yes, the Cowboys have come on, but...that defense still has big holes, and Drew Brees, playing with a lot of pride, will score points in this one.
Washington 6.5 over PHILADELPHIA. My pick: REDSKINS. Kirk Cousins, RGIII...both can lead this offense; but this week it's RGIII, back from his injury, and so the 'Skins are in even better shape.
TAMPA BAY 3 over St. Louis. My pick: RAMS. Just a gut feeling; 2 teams coming off highly disappointing weeks...look for Jeff Fisher to get his Rams to respond.
HOUSTON 8 over Minnesota. My pick: VIKINGS. 8 just seems like a lot of points here, especially with Adrian Peterson doing his thing...Vikes to keep it close.
DENVER 13 over Cleveland. My pick: BRONCOS. Usually this would be too many points; but not with this Broncos offense and defense clicking, and fighting for home field advantage.
Chicago 5.5 over ARIZONA. My pick: BEARS. They still have something to play for, and surely won't turn it over like the Lions did last weekend.
San Francisco 1 over SEATTLE. My pick: 49ERS. A terrific game, should be close...I just think San Francisco has a bit more experience in games like this.
NY JETS 2.5 over San Diego. My pick: CHARGERS. But who knows with these 2 teams? I just suspect the Chargers were embarrassed last week in their loss and will want to play...while the Jets' offense continues to implode (Greg McElroy is no savior).
Thursday, December 20, 2012
THOUGHT OF THE DAY: EDUCATE THEM
At the conference last year, in talking to parents of children with Moebius Syndrome, one of the things that struck me was this: when parents would find out their child had Moebius, they of course would learn all they could about it. But more often than you'd think, when they took their child to the doctor, sometimes he or she knew little about Moebius. The parent had to be the one educating his child's doctor concerning this condition.
Moral of the story? Don't be afraid to do just that. Moebius Syndrome is a rare condition. The vast, vast, vast majority of medical professionals do the best they can. But they might not have encountered Moebius before. You know your child best; you may very well know his or her condition better than anyone else. Don't be afraid to stand up and say so. :+)
At the conference last year, in talking to parents of children with Moebius Syndrome, one of the things that struck me was this: when parents would find out their child had Moebius, they of course would learn all they could about it. But more often than you'd think, when they took their child to the doctor, sometimes he or she knew little about Moebius. The parent had to be the one educating his child's doctor concerning this condition.
Moral of the story? Don't be afraid to do just that. Moebius Syndrome is a rare condition. The vast, vast, vast majority of medical professionals do the best they can. But they might not have encountered Moebius before. You know your child best; you may very well know his or her condition better than anyone else. Don't be afraid to stand up and say so. :+)
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
THOUGHT OF THE DAY: EXPECTATIONS
One of the things I enjoyed most at this year's Conference was facilitating the "Just for Dads" sessions. There was one thing I heard over and over again: so often, when you parents have children with Moebius Syndrome, doctors and others will tell you all the things that your child will NOT be able to do--to walk, talk, swim, be a contributing member of society, etc etc etc.
But over and over again, your children prove them wrong. Moral: always believe they can do it. Never sell them short.
One of the things I enjoyed most at this year's Conference was facilitating the "Just for Dads" sessions. There was one thing I heard over and over again: so often, when you parents have children with Moebius Syndrome, doctors and others will tell you all the things that your child will NOT be able to do--to walk, talk, swim, be a contributing member of society, etc etc etc.
But over and over again, your children prove them wrong. Moral: always believe they can do it. Never sell them short.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
DR. COLLINS AND THE NIH--THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Okay, so I'm back from the dark side of grading (mostly)...
Today's thought of the day goes back to Dr. Francis Collins and
his appearance at our conference, on day 1.
And he gave a very interesting speech, trying to explain some of the
genertic research they are doing concerning Moebius Syndrome and other
issues. To me, what sticks in my mind is this: it is so important simply
that he came, and that he saw us as important enough to connect with us
(and for that, we owe a lot to the head of the Moebius Syndrome Foundation,
Vicki McCarrell, who just happened to sit next to Dr. Collins at a
function and immediately knew the importance of making a connection
with him. Well done, Vicki!). For at least now he knows who we are.
The NIH knows who we are. They are doing research connected with Moebius
Syndrome. Who knows what they will find? Who knows what its support can
mean? It can only be good. It can only mean, at the least, that we will come
to know more about Moebius Syndrome. I think there is a good chance
that Dr. Collins will appear at our next conference as well. Things are
happening. Let's keep doing everything we can to continue to make
them happen.
Okay, so I'm back from the dark side of grading (mostly)...
Today's thought of the day goes back to Dr. Francis Collins and
his appearance at our conference, on day 1.
And he gave a very interesting speech, trying to explain some of the
genertic research they are doing concerning Moebius Syndrome and other
issues. To me, what sticks in my mind is this: it is so important simply
that he came, and that he saw us as important enough to connect with us
(and for that, we owe a lot to the head of the Moebius Syndrome Foundation,
Vicki McCarrell, who just happened to sit next to Dr. Collins at a
function and immediately knew the importance of making a connection
with him. Well done, Vicki!). For at least now he knows who we are.
The NIH knows who we are. They are doing research connected with Moebius
Syndrome. Who knows what they will find? Who knows what its support can
mean? It can only be good. It can only mean, at the least, that we will come
to know more about Moebius Syndrome. I think there is a good chance
that Dr. Collins will appear at our next conference as well. Things are
happening. Let's keep doing everything we can to continue to make
them happen.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
FOOTBALL PICKS TIME!!
ATLANTA 1.5 over NY Giants. My pick: FALCONS. They were bad last week vs Carolina. But they're a good team; and good teams bounce back strong in big games like this. Go with the Falcons.
CLEVELAND vs Washington (off the board). My pick: REDSKINS. This game is off the board because of doubts as to whether RGIII will play for the 'Skins. All indications are: he will. And therefore I think he'll will Washington to another tough win.
Denver 2.5 over BALTIMORE. My pick: BRONCOS. Because Baltimore's defense is suspect. And Peyton Manning has a great career record vs the Ravens.
Detroit 6 over ARIZONA. My pick: LIONS. The Lions have struggled, but they can still score. The Cardinals can't.O
Green Bay 3 over CHICAGO. My pick: PACKERS. Two teams going in opposite directions. The Bears' defense especially has struggled of late; not a good thing when playing the Packers.
HOUSTON 8.5 over Indianapolis. My pick: COLTS. Not to win; but to keep this game close. The Colts find ways; the Texans' confidence must be a bit shaken after last week's debacle in New England.
\MIAMI 7 over Jacksonville. My pick: DOLPHINS. I take it back; Chad Henne's "spark" of the Jags flickered out real quick.
NEW ENGLAND 5.5 over San Francisco. My pick: PATRIOTS. Is anyone playing better than Tom Brady and co.? And they're almost unbeatable in Foxboro in December. Colin Kaepernick may be in over his head here.
NEW ORLEANS 3.5 over Tampa Bay. My pick: SAINTS. Because Drew Brees, playing only for pride, still will find a way.
OAKLAND 3 over Kansas City. My pick: CHIEFS. Just a gut feeling. Oakland's defense is so bad that even the Chiefs can score on them.
Pittsburgh 1.5 over DALLAS. My pick: STEELERS. Big Ben and the Steelers were horrible last week. But this week presents a must-win situation; and my feeling is the Steelers will bounce back and play much better. The Cowboys will battle--they always do; but the Steel men will pull this out late.
ST. LOUIS 3 over Minnesota. My pick: RAMS. Jeff Fisher has done an amazing job with the Rams this year. Adrian Peterson, one suspects, cannot continue to win games by himself with almost no help from his QB, and we'll see that this week.
SAN DIEGO 3 over Carolina. My pick: CHARGERS. Both teams are out of the playoffs. Which team will be more interested in this one? My guess is Philip Rivers will want to keep the ball rolling for his team...
Seattle 5 over BUFFALO. My pick: SEAHAWKS. Once again, that defense prevails.
TENNESSEE 1 over NY Jets. My pick: TITANS. The Jets only have success if they can run the ball down a team's throat, and little else. My guess is the Titans won't make it so easy this week.
Last week's record--er, ahem; was 5-11. I am 100-105-6 for the season. Yikes...
ATLANTA 1.5 over NY Giants. My pick: FALCONS. They were bad last week vs Carolina. But they're a good team; and good teams bounce back strong in big games like this. Go with the Falcons.
CLEVELAND vs Washington (off the board). My pick: REDSKINS. This game is off the board because of doubts as to whether RGIII will play for the 'Skins. All indications are: he will. And therefore I think he'll will Washington to another tough win.
Denver 2.5 over BALTIMORE. My pick: BRONCOS. Because Baltimore's defense is suspect. And Peyton Manning has a great career record vs the Ravens.
Detroit 6 over ARIZONA. My pick: LIONS. The Lions have struggled, but they can still score. The Cardinals can't.O
Green Bay 3 over CHICAGO. My pick: PACKERS. Two teams going in opposite directions. The Bears' defense especially has struggled of late; not a good thing when playing the Packers.
HOUSTON 8.5 over Indianapolis. My pick: COLTS. Not to win; but to keep this game close. The Colts find ways; the Texans' confidence must be a bit shaken after last week's debacle in New England.
\MIAMI 7 over Jacksonville. My pick: DOLPHINS. I take it back; Chad Henne's "spark" of the Jags flickered out real quick.
NEW ENGLAND 5.5 over San Francisco. My pick: PATRIOTS. Is anyone playing better than Tom Brady and co.? And they're almost unbeatable in Foxboro in December. Colin Kaepernick may be in over his head here.
NEW ORLEANS 3.5 over Tampa Bay. My pick: SAINTS. Because Drew Brees, playing only for pride, still will find a way.
OAKLAND 3 over Kansas City. My pick: CHIEFS. Just a gut feeling. Oakland's defense is so bad that even the Chiefs can score on them.
Pittsburgh 1.5 over DALLAS. My pick: STEELERS. Big Ben and the Steelers were horrible last week. But this week presents a must-win situation; and my feeling is the Steelers will bounce back and play much better. The Cowboys will battle--they always do; but the Steel men will pull this out late.
ST. LOUIS 3 over Minnesota. My pick: RAMS. Jeff Fisher has done an amazing job with the Rams this year. Adrian Peterson, one suspects, cannot continue to win games by himself with almost no help from his QB, and we'll see that this week.
SAN DIEGO 3 over Carolina. My pick: CHARGERS. Both teams are out of the playoffs. Which team will be more interested in this one? My guess is Philip Rivers will want to keep the ball rolling for his team...
Seattle 5 over BUFFALO. My pick: SEAHAWKS. Once again, that defense prevails.
TENNESSEE 1 over NY Jets. My pick: TITANS. The Jets only have success if they can run the ball down a team's throat, and little else. My guess is the Titans won't make it so easy this week.
Last week's record--er, ahem; was 5-11. I am 100-105-6 for the season. Yikes...
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: MEETINGS
So today, thinking back to the conference, here's what sticks with me from the very first day of Conference 2012 in Philly: by the time the morning gets going, and everyone is reporting to the registration table and getting signed in, what do you see? You see all kinds of individuals with Moebius, and families with Moebius children immediately meeting new people. And they quickly begin talking, sharing experiences, and learning from each other. Learning they are not alone, and that there are a lot of things, and a lot of knowledge, to share.
And that's all a good thing. :+)
So today, thinking back to the conference, here's what sticks with me from the very first day of Conference 2012 in Philly: by the time the morning gets going, and everyone is reporting to the registration table and getting signed in, what do you see? You see all kinds of individuals with Moebius, and families with Moebius children immediately meeting new people. And they quickly begin talking, sharing experiences, and learning from each other. Learning they are not alone, and that there are a lot of things, and a lot of knowledge, to share.
And that's all a good thing. :+)
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
2 THOUGHTS FOR TODAY
First, I wish that final exam time wasn't so busy. Sorry I haven't been blogging as much, y'all...it's a crazy time.
But anyway, here's another thought, going back to Moebius Conference 2012 in Philadelphia: did you all know that the Moebius Syndrome Foundation board, and our medical advisory board, have a nice dinner on the Thursday night before the conference? It's a nice treat for all of us, allowing us to catch up with each other and get to know each other better. But then--after the food--we all continue to sit and discuss. We go around the room, and we all talk about what we've doing and what the conference means to us. And most importantly, we throw out ideas about what things we can do better, and how we can help the Foundation grow and the conference grow. And just speaking for myself, it was really a good thing to hear so many ideas batted around, and to hear how much this conference means to everyone and how much thought is put into it. You know, many of the medical professionals who come to the conference are really busy folks. They don't have a lot of free time. But they willingly give it to come to this conference, to lend their expertise, and to try to make it better.
That's all a really good thing. We can look forward to the conference growing and continuing to get even better in the future.
First, I wish that final exam time wasn't so busy. Sorry I haven't been blogging as much, y'all...it's a crazy time.
But anyway, here's another thought, going back to Moebius Conference 2012 in Philadelphia: did you all know that the Moebius Syndrome Foundation board, and our medical advisory board, have a nice dinner on the Thursday night before the conference? It's a nice treat for all of us, allowing us to catch up with each other and get to know each other better. But then--after the food--we all continue to sit and discuss. We go around the room, and we all talk about what we've doing and what the conference means to us. And most importantly, we throw out ideas about what things we can do better, and how we can help the Foundation grow and the conference grow. And just speaking for myself, it was really a good thing to hear so many ideas batted around, and to hear how much this conference means to everyone and how much thought is put into it. You know, many of the medical professionals who come to the conference are really busy folks. They don't have a lot of free time. But they willingly give it to come to this conference, to lend their expertise, and to try to make it better.
That's all a really good thing. We can look forward to the conference growing and continuing to get even better in the future.
Friday, December 7, 2012
FRIDAY FOOTBALL PICKS
I was unfortunately only 7-9 last week; I am now 95-94-6 for the season.
NFL PICKS
Atlanta 3.5 over CAROLINA. My pick: FALCONS. Atlanta comes off a solid win last week over the Saints last Thursday; they've had plenty of time to rest up and prepare.
BUFFALO 3 over St. Louis. My pick: BILLS. They play well at home. The Rams had a big win last week vs the Niners; look for them to have a bit of a letdown.
Chicago 3 over MINNESOTA. My pick: BEARS. Both teams are banged up. But I think the Vikings' injuries--especially to Percy Harvin--hurt more. And how will Christian Ponder handle the Bears' defense? Not well.
CINCINNATI 3 over Dallas. My pick: BENGALS. Tony Romo and the Cowboys' offense are clicking better. Look for this game to be high-scoring. But the Cowboys have not been able to eliminate their frequent mistakes. And the Bengals have a big edge on defense.
CLEVELAND 6.5 over Kansas City. My pick: BROWNS. Brandon Weeden continues to make some progress. Look for the Chiefs to come down from the emotions of last week, and perhaps be flat.
GREEN BAY 7 over Detroit. My pick: PACKERS. The Lions will score, but their defense is banged up and getting beaten down. Aaron Rodgers seldom shows any mercy.
INDIANAPOLIS 5.5 over Tennessee. My pick: COLTS. Look for Andrew Luck to keep it rolling, especially at home where the Colts have been very tough.
NY GIANTS 5 over New Orleans. My pick: GIANTS. Though the question is--which Giants team will show up? My guess is that, at home, they'll get their usual December mojo going again.
NY Jets 2.5 over JACKSONVILLE. My pick: JAGUARS. Chad Henne and the Jags had a tough week last week. But I still think he can spark them. Mark Sanchez? It just hasn't happened for him this season for the Jets and I see no signs that it will.
PITTSBURGH vs San Diego (off the board). My pick: STEELERS. Because it now is certain--Big Ben will play.
SAN FRANCISCO 10 over Miami. My pick: DOLPHINS. San Fran will win this game in the end. But I think 10 points is too much; Miami has a good defense, and I'm not completely sold yet on Colin Kaepernick--he makes mistakes.
SEATTLE 10 over Arizona. My pick: SEAHAWKS. Because they're tough to beat at home anyway, and the Arizona QB situation is horrid.
TAMPA BAY 7.5 over Philadelphia. My pick: BUCS. Kind of a lot of points, but...Philly's defense has many, many issues; Josh Freeman and the Bucs should put up enough points to cover.
WASHINGTON 2.5 over Baltimore. My pick: RAVENS. Who doesn't like RGIII? He's a wonder. But--now the pressure is on the "Skins a bit. The Ravens had a bad week last week; but they're a veteran team, they will come back strong, and they're used to playing in games like this. I think Joe Flacco will exploit some holes in the Washington defense. Go with the Ravens here.
NEW ENGLAND 3.5 over Houston. My pick: TEXANS. I just think the Texans are very, very good and can pressure Tom Brady; and I think the Pats have gotten fat off of some bad teams and bad defenses, and have not quite shown the consistency yet that even they would like. Look for that to show up here, in an excellent matchup.
I was unfortunately only 7-9 last week; I am now 95-94-6 for the season.
NFL PICKS
Atlanta 3.5 over CAROLINA. My pick: FALCONS. Atlanta comes off a solid win last week over the Saints last Thursday; they've had plenty of time to rest up and prepare.
BUFFALO 3 over St. Louis. My pick: BILLS. They play well at home. The Rams had a big win last week vs the Niners; look for them to have a bit of a letdown.
Chicago 3 over MINNESOTA. My pick: BEARS. Both teams are banged up. But I think the Vikings' injuries--especially to Percy Harvin--hurt more. And how will Christian Ponder handle the Bears' defense? Not well.
CINCINNATI 3 over Dallas. My pick: BENGALS. Tony Romo and the Cowboys' offense are clicking better. Look for this game to be high-scoring. But the Cowboys have not been able to eliminate their frequent mistakes. And the Bengals have a big edge on defense.
CLEVELAND 6.5 over Kansas City. My pick: BROWNS. Brandon Weeden continues to make some progress. Look for the Chiefs to come down from the emotions of last week, and perhaps be flat.
GREEN BAY 7 over Detroit. My pick: PACKERS. The Lions will score, but their defense is banged up and getting beaten down. Aaron Rodgers seldom shows any mercy.
INDIANAPOLIS 5.5 over Tennessee. My pick: COLTS. Look for Andrew Luck to keep it rolling, especially at home where the Colts have been very tough.
NY GIANTS 5 over New Orleans. My pick: GIANTS. Though the question is--which Giants team will show up? My guess is that, at home, they'll get their usual December mojo going again.
NY Jets 2.5 over JACKSONVILLE. My pick: JAGUARS. Chad Henne and the Jags had a tough week last week. But I still think he can spark them. Mark Sanchez? It just hasn't happened for him this season for the Jets and I see no signs that it will.
PITTSBURGH vs San Diego (off the board). My pick: STEELERS. Because it now is certain--Big Ben will play.
SAN FRANCISCO 10 over Miami. My pick: DOLPHINS. San Fran will win this game in the end. But I think 10 points is too much; Miami has a good defense, and I'm not completely sold yet on Colin Kaepernick--he makes mistakes.
SEATTLE 10 over Arizona. My pick: SEAHAWKS. Because they're tough to beat at home anyway, and the Arizona QB situation is horrid.
TAMPA BAY 7.5 over Philadelphia. My pick: BUCS. Kind of a lot of points, but...Philly's defense has many, many issues; Josh Freeman and the Bucs should put up enough points to cover.
WASHINGTON 2.5 over Baltimore. My pick: RAVENS. Who doesn't like RGIII? He's a wonder. But--now the pressure is on the "Skins a bit. The Ravens had a bad week last week; but they're a veteran team, they will come back strong, and they're used to playing in games like this. I think Joe Flacco will exploit some holes in the Washington defense. Go with the Ravens here.
NEW ENGLAND 3.5 over Houston. My pick: TEXANS. I just think the Texans are very, very good and can pressure Tom Brady; and I think the Pats have gotten fat off of some bad teams and bad defenses, and have not quite shown the consistency yet that even they would like. Look for that to show up here, in an excellent matchup.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
COMMENT FOR THE DAY
This has already been discussed on Facebook a bit, but...lookee here: the cable network AMC will be starting a new show in February 2013, called "Freak Show."
You can read about it via the link above. Here's the deal--I'm sure AMC would defend this by saying, hey, we say flat out that these are unique and special people, we don't mean to demean them, after all they take part in their show of their own free will, we don't force them, and they proudly call themselves "freaks."
Yes, I get that. But: look, AMC, think about what you're doing. You're putting that word out there--"freak." You're spreading it wider in the culture. You're popularizing it. You may very well make it so that more people will think it's just fine to call those with physical differences "freaks."
People with Moebius Syndrome have sometimes very obvious physical differences. It would not be hard to tempt unfriendly, un-thinking people into calling them "freaks."
But people with Moebius Syndrome aren't "freaks." And they don't want to be called "freaks."
Think again about what you're doing, AMC.
This has already been discussed on Facebook a bit, but...lookee here: the cable network AMC will be starting a new show in February 2013, called "Freak Show."
You can read about it via the link above. Here's the deal--I'm sure AMC would defend this by saying, hey, we say flat out that these are unique and special people, we don't mean to demean them, after all they take part in their show of their own free will, we don't force them, and they proudly call themselves "freaks."
Yes, I get that. But: look, AMC, think about what you're doing. You're putting that word out there--"freak." You're spreading it wider in the culture. You're popularizing it. You may very well make it so that more people will think it's just fine to call those with physical differences "freaks."
People with Moebius Syndrome have sometimes very obvious physical differences. It would not be hard to tempt unfriendly, un-thinking people into calling them "freaks."
But people with Moebius Syndrome aren't "freaks." And they don't want to be called "freaks."
Think again about what you're doing, AMC.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
THOUGHT OF THE DAY FOR TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4TH, 2012
Everyone--I'm so busy these days with final exams for the classes I teach that I thought I'd save time...but still throw something out there on the blog...by just doing a simple "thought of the day" for a couple of weeks. And I thought I'd go back to the Moebius Syndrome Conference held this past July, and just kind of remember it, review it...and remind us of the important things we learned from it. So here goes:
One thing that sticks with me from this year's conference is the remarkable number of dedicated medical professionals who are involved with Moebius Syndrome--researching it, trying to find out more about it, and involved with it. At this year's conference I was lucky enough to attend a medical symposium lasting an entire day, in which a number of medical researchers shared the work they are doing concerning Moebius. It's great stuff; they're dedicated; they're working hard; and more is happening all the time. It's good to know. So if they ask you or your family to take part in research, please do so! And know there are a lot of people trying to help with all of this, both with trying to make it better...and just with helping us deal with Moebius on a day to day basis.
"Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow."---Mary Anne Radamacher.
Everyone--I'm so busy these days with final exams for the classes I teach that I thought I'd save time...but still throw something out there on the blog...by just doing a simple "thought of the day" for a couple of weeks. And I thought I'd go back to the Moebius Syndrome Conference held this past July, and just kind of remember it, review it...and remind us of the important things we learned from it. So here goes:
One thing that sticks with me from this year's conference is the remarkable number of dedicated medical professionals who are involved with Moebius Syndrome--researching it, trying to find out more about it, and involved with it. At this year's conference I was lucky enough to attend a medical symposium lasting an entire day, in which a number of medical researchers shared the work they are doing concerning Moebius. It's great stuff; they're dedicated; they're working hard; and more is happening all the time. It's good to know. So if they ask you or your family to take part in research, please do so! And know there are a lot of people trying to help with all of this, both with trying to make it better...and just with helping us deal with Moebius on a day to day basis.
"Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow."---Mary Anne Radamacher.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
TIME FOR SOME FOOTBALL PICKS!!
Because I didn't have time to do them yesterday. But--no time like the present. And last week: ; I I was 10-5-2; I am now 88-85-6 for the season; yay!
NFL PICKS
Pittsburgh at BALTIMORE (off the board--due to Steeler injuries). My pick: RAVENS. No line on this one; I'd certainly go with the Ravens here; Charlie Batch as the Steeler QB just isn't the answer.
BUFFALO 6 over Jacksonville. My pick: JAGUARS. Chad Henne has given the Jags a spark. The Bills can't quite put things together.
Carolina 3 over KANSAS CITY. My pick; PANTHERS. Cam Newton seems to be getting things together some; he had a big week last week. And the Chiefs just can't score.
CHICAGO 3.5 over Seattle. My pick; BEARS. Because Jay Cutler is back, and playing well. And the Seahawks have not been a good road team.
Cincinnati 2 over SAN DIEGO. My pick: BENGALS. This one is actually a tough pick. The Bengals seem to have all the advantages here--they come in winners of 3 in a row; while the Chargers are reeling, having lost several tough games in a row, and there are huge distractions--Charger head coach Norv Turner likely won't survive the season. But the Chargers still have talent. The Bengals have at times struggled this year in games like this. Are they finally over the hump? My bet: yes.
DALLAS 10 over Philadelphia. My pick: EAGLES. Not, this time, to win; Dallas will win this game. But the Cowboys, again, have defensive issues, they haven't played consistent football yet this year; they couldn't cover the spread at home vs either the Browns or Redskins; why would they cover it this time?
DENVER 7 over Tampa Bay. My pick: BRONCOS. I respect Josh Freeman and the Bucs and what they've done. But the Buc secondary is suspect; look for Peyton Manning to exploit it and score points.
DETROIT 4.5 over Indianapolis. My pick: COLTS. I suspect that tough loss at home against the Texans on Thanksgiving will hurt Detroit's spirit. And the Colts find ways to win.
GREEN BAY 8.5 over Minnesota. My pick: VIKINGS. Not to win; but I suspect Adrian Peterson will be able to run the ball vs that Packer defense (which has injuries), and keep this game close.
Houston 6 over TENNESSEE. My pick: TEXANS. I expect the Texans to score points; the Titans won't be able to keep up.
New England 7.5 over MIAMI. My pick: PATRIOTS. They're hot; again, I respect what Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins have been able to do this season, but I don't think the Dolphins will be able to keep up with the Pats and Tom Brady.
NY JETS 4.5 over Arizona. My pick: JETS. Because right now, the Cardinal offense is in even worse shape than the Jets; especially on the road.
Cleveland at OAKLAND (off the board). My pick: BROWNS. Once again the game is off the board due to various injuries; I just think the Raiders have struggled so much lately, while the Browns have improved...so go with the hotter team.
San Francisco 7 over ST. LOUIS. My pick: 49ERS. How can you go against Colin Kaepernick? :+) And that Niners defense is playing well.
NY Giants 2.5 over WASHINGTON. My pick: GIANTS. It's a big game; it's late in the season; last week's big win over Green Bay suggested to me that the Giants also have their mojo back. This time of year is the Giants' time; I think they'll find a way to win over the impressive RGIII.
COLLEGE PICK
Alabama 7 over Georgia (SEC Championship game). My pick: BULLDOGS. I think they'll keep this one close, with 'Bama pulling it out late. Georgia has lots of weapons...they'll give the Tide a run for it.
Because I didn't have time to do them yesterday. But--no time like the present. And last week: ; I I was 10-5-2; I am now 88-85-6 for the season; yay!
NFL PICKS
Pittsburgh at BALTIMORE (off the board--due to Steeler injuries). My pick: RAVENS. No line on this one; I'd certainly go with the Ravens here; Charlie Batch as the Steeler QB just isn't the answer.
BUFFALO 6 over Jacksonville. My pick: JAGUARS. Chad Henne has given the Jags a spark. The Bills can't quite put things together.
Carolina 3 over KANSAS CITY. My pick; PANTHERS. Cam Newton seems to be getting things together some; he had a big week last week. And the Chiefs just can't score.
CHICAGO 3.5 over Seattle. My pick; BEARS. Because Jay Cutler is back, and playing well. And the Seahawks have not been a good road team.
Cincinnati 2 over SAN DIEGO. My pick: BENGALS. This one is actually a tough pick. The Bengals seem to have all the advantages here--they come in winners of 3 in a row; while the Chargers are reeling, having lost several tough games in a row, and there are huge distractions--Charger head coach Norv Turner likely won't survive the season. But the Chargers still have talent. The Bengals have at times struggled this year in games like this. Are they finally over the hump? My bet: yes.
DALLAS 10 over Philadelphia. My pick: EAGLES. Not, this time, to win; Dallas will win this game. But the Cowboys, again, have defensive issues, they haven't played consistent football yet this year; they couldn't cover the spread at home vs either the Browns or Redskins; why would they cover it this time?
DENVER 7 over Tampa Bay. My pick: BRONCOS. I respect Josh Freeman and the Bucs and what they've done. But the Buc secondary is suspect; look for Peyton Manning to exploit it and score points.
DETROIT 4.5 over Indianapolis. My pick: COLTS. I suspect that tough loss at home against the Texans on Thanksgiving will hurt Detroit's spirit. And the Colts find ways to win.
GREEN BAY 8.5 over Minnesota. My pick: VIKINGS. Not to win; but I suspect Adrian Peterson will be able to run the ball vs that Packer defense (which has injuries), and keep this game close.
Houston 6 over TENNESSEE. My pick: TEXANS. I expect the Texans to score points; the Titans won't be able to keep up.
New England 7.5 over MIAMI. My pick: PATRIOTS. They're hot; again, I respect what Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins have been able to do this season, but I don't think the Dolphins will be able to keep up with the Pats and Tom Brady.
NY JETS 4.5 over Arizona. My pick: JETS. Because right now, the Cardinal offense is in even worse shape than the Jets; especially on the road.
Cleveland at OAKLAND (off the board). My pick: BROWNS. Once again the game is off the board due to various injuries; I just think the Raiders have struggled so much lately, while the Browns have improved...so go with the hotter team.
San Francisco 7 over ST. LOUIS. My pick: 49ERS. How can you go against Colin Kaepernick? :+) And that Niners defense is playing well.
NY Giants 2.5 over WASHINGTON. My pick: GIANTS. It's a big game; it's late in the season; last week's big win over Green Bay suggested to me that the Giants also have their mojo back. This time of year is the Giants' time; I think they'll find a way to win over the impressive RGIII.
COLLEGE PICK
Alabama 7 over Georgia (SEC Championship game). My pick: BULLDOGS. I think they'll keep this one close, with 'Bama pulling it out late. Georgia has lots of weapons...they'll give the Tide a run for it.
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