Olympics - Milano-Cortina 2026 - Day 5/February 8

The first Sunday of the Olympics is chock full of events and medals!!!

The United States won its first gold medal in the women's downhill, and it wasn't Lindsay Vonn, who crashed early on in her race and suffered a compound fracture to her tibia.  Instead, it was Breezy Johnson, who skied 6th and set the low time, which was not caught.  Germany's Emma Eicher finished second and Sofia Goggia of Italy won the Bronze.

Also going downhill in the Snowboarding parallel giant slalom were the men and women, raced toward the medals.  Austria's Benjamin Karl - at 41 years of age - defeating Kim Sandkyun of Korea in the finals to become the oldest winter Olympics gold medalist ever.  In the women's event, Zuzana Maderova of Czechia won gold over Austria's Sabine Payer.  Although I always love to give love to the winners, the big story of the parallel Super Giant Slalom was that heavy favorite and 2018 double-gold medalist Ester Ledecka of Czechia, lost to Payer in the quarterfinals.  Here is Karl in his iconic celebration after he clinched the gold!

In another big upset, Germany's Felix Loch failed to medal in the luge, with gold going to his teammate Max Langerhan, who was followed down the slied by Jonas Mueller of Austria and Dominik Fishnaller of Italy.

Lots of action on the skis, as the potential for 6 gold medals at these games is still in paly for Johanes Hoesflot Klaebo of Norway, as he just decimated the other 4 racers in the lead pack on the last 1/2 lap of the skiathlon to win his first gold medal of these events in what many consider his weakest event - comparatively speaking.

Norway also won another gold in the Men's 5000-Meter Speedskating fianl, as Sander Eitrem of Norway was victorious.  

In team sports, the United States qualified for the semifinals with one match remaining in the round-robin tournament by defeating Estonia 5-3 and Sweden 8-7.  Their last match against reigning Olympic champions Italy will be for seeding only, as Italy has also qualified, along with Great Britain.

In women's hockey shutouts reigned supreme with Sweden whitewashing France 4-0, and Switzerland blanking Finland 2-0.

In perhaps the most dominating performance to date in these games, France won gold in the Biathlon mixed relay, as Eric Perrot, Quentin Fillon Maillet, Lou Jeanmont and anchor Julia Simon absolutely destroyed the field - especially anchor leg Simon's last shoot in which not only was she clean, she was brilliantly fast as well, so fast that even a miss or two would likely have led to gold over silver medalist Italy and third place Germany.

And, in the event everybody was waiting for at the conclusion of the evening, the last three events in the team figure skating turned out to be spectacular.  First up was pairs, and although the Japanese pair won their expected 10 points, the US team of Ellie Kam and Danny O'Shea exceeded their expected fifth place finish by scoring their highest performance of the season to finish 4th, and that extra point led to a tie between the US and Japan after Kaori Sakamato came in first place in the women's singles long skate, ahead of Amber Glenn who finished third.  And, although Shun Sato of Japan skated absolutely brilliantly, Ilia Malinin's routine was just so technically difficult that he exceeded 200 points even with a touchdown on one of his quads.  Team US won gold by 1 point.

Athlete of the Day - Johanes Hoesflot Klaebo, Norway, Cross-Country Skiing

He skied with a 5-man breakway pack most of the race, and then absolutely obliterated the other leaders with 1/2 lap left to go.

U.S. Athlete of the Day - Ellie Kam and Danny O'Shea, Figure Skating

Breezy Johnson could be here, but Kam and O'Brien's pair performance was so critical as they increased their positioning by one point, and that single point was the difference between gold and silver over the Japanese in the team event.

Upset of the Day - Ester Ledecka, Czechia, Snowboarding and Felix Loch, Germany, Luge

Such huge favorites that not only didn't win gold, they didn't even medal!!!  Loch finishing fourth in the men's luge after his four runs and Ledecka losing to the eventual silver medalist in the quarterfinals, despite being the one seed.

Team of the Day - France, Mixed Biathlon Relay, Biathlon

Flawless shooting by everyone, but particularly by Julia Simon in the relay position!

U.S. Team of the Day - Figure Skating

Winning their second consecutive gold medal, although only ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates remain from Beijing.  Of particular import, Ilia Malinin planned on skipping the men's single free skate after skating the short program and with his individual event approaching in two days, but knowing the US was tied with Japan (and behind in the tiebreaker), he suited up and won his event, and thus the gold.

Olympic Term of the Day:  Axel - Figure Skating - in figure skating, an edge jumped named after Norwegian Axel Paulsen It is the only jump with a forward take-off, with the takeoff on the forward outside edge and landing on the backward outside edge - making Ilia Malinin's quadruple axel really a 4 1/2 twist jump.

Olympic Events Watched:  Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing, Curling, Figure Skating, Snowboarding

USA Closing Ceremony Flag-Bearer Possibilities (listed alphabetically):  Evan Bates, Madison Chock, Korey Dobkin, Breezy Johnson, Hilary Knight, Ilia Malinin, Cory Thiesse

Olympics - Milano-Cortina 2026 - Day 4/February 7

 

What an Opening Ceremonies!!!  And to follow it up?  Our first medals of the Olympics along with a ton of other competitions across Northern Italy!

I am going to start with the story of the day, by far ... Italy's Francesca Lollobrigida taking home the gold medal, the host country's first, in the women's 3000 Meter Speed Skating event.  She fell behind the time trial's of other athletes, but with 3 to 3 1/2 laps left, just started a spring that most athletes do not even have in their last lap - and she put up a time that Norway's Rajne Wiklund could not catch.  Wiklund with the silver, and Lollabrigida, who contemplated retirement after Beijing in 2022, took time off to have a baby, and then decided to return as her country was hosting the Olympics - won Gold.

Hers was not the first medal won by Italy, however, as her countryman Giovanni Fanzoni and Dominik Paris took home the silver and bronze respectively in the Men's Downhill, as Swiss skier Franji van Allman won gold. 

The Round Robin portion of the Mixed Doubles Curling event continued, with Great Britain winning 7-5 over Canada, and then handing Team US its first defeat 6-4.  This loss stunned the US, as they then fell to Korea 6-5.  Sweden won its two matches 17-7 over Switzerland and 9-4 over Italy, who managed to bounce back to defeat Norway.  Tomorrow's matches will likely decide the semifinalists.

In the X-Games portion of the day, Japan swept the top two spots on the Men's Snowboard Big Air, as Kira Kimora gold and Ryoma Kimata took home the silver.  

The women's normal hill competition in Ski Jumping was completed, with Norway's Anna Odine Stroem flew farther than everyone else to take home the gold.  Slovakia's Nika Prevc and Japan's Nozomi Maruyama joined Stroem on the podium.

The women's 10K x 10K skiathlon was held, and the perennial younger sibling of the cross-country skiing world, Sweden, dominated their older, more decorated older sister Norway as not only did Frida Karlsson win gold, but teammate Ebba Andersson followed her to the finish line to earn silver.

Women's hockey round robin continued as well, with Sweden defeating Italy 6-1 and Germany beating Japan 5-2.  The two favorites dominated, as Canada beat Switzerland 4-0 and the United States controlled its match against Finland, winning 5-0.  For the US, assistant captain Hilary Knight scored her 24th Olympic goal - to tie the record.  I look forward to posting about her record-breaking goal here shortly!

Besides the women's 3000 meters speed skating event, the talk of the day was the continuation of the team figure skating event with the men's short program and the ice dancing long program.  One of the shocks of the tournament to date occurred in the men's short program, as Japan's Yuma Kagiyama stunned American Ilia Malinin to win 10 points for Japan, with Malinin's 9 points giving the US a 34-33 lead heading into the long programs.

And, the long programs began immediately thereafter with the ice dancing long program.  The US team of Madison Chock and Evan Bates might as well have been the only performers in the competition, as it was them, and everyone else fighting for 2nd.  The fact that Japan came in 5th, advanced the US lead from 1 point to 44-39 with three events remaining.

Athlete of the Day - Francesca Lollobrigida, Italy, Speed Skating

Not only did she win gold, she set an Olympic record - AND - she did it on her 35th birthday!!!  Happy Birthday to you Francesca.

U.S. Athlete of the Day - Madison Chock and Evan Bates, Figure Skating

Just absolutely amazing!

Upset of the Day - Swiss alpine skier Marco Odermatt did not even medal in the Downhill, an event in which he entered the Olympics as the overwhelming gold medal favorite.

Team of the Day - Great Britan, Mixed Doubles, Curling

Just your everyday 6-0 in the round robin round, including handing the United States its first defeat.

U.S. Team of the Day - Women's Hockey

Another strong win, this time shutting out Finland 5-0!

Olympic Term of the Day:  Skiathlon - A cross-country skiing competition that combines two different skiing techniques - classical technique and freestyle (skating) techniques - within the same race.

Olympic Events Watched:  Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Curling, Figure Skating, Hockey, Snowboarding, Speed Skating

USA Closing Ceremony Flag-Bearer Possibilities (listed alphabetically):  Evan Best, Madison Chock, Korey Dobkin, Hilary Knight, Cory Thiesse

Picks of the Week - Super Bowl Sunday!

 

An absolute shambles of a season, and I do not expect this Super Bowl to be any different.  Hoping to find some really good-looking prop bets to try to salvage something for the year!

A reminder, all bets are for $100 expect for the Big Bet, which is $250.  All losses incur a vig of 10%.  On to the picks.

New England Patriots +5 1/2 V. Seattle Seahawks

Let's be honest here, Seattle is by far the better team.  But, New England does have a really good defense of its own (4th in Scoring Defense, 8th in Total Defense).  And, given that this spread moved an extra point overnight in Seattle's favor, I will take it.

 

Seattle Seahawks -235 Moneyline (Bet $235 to win $100) v. New England Patriots

New England might cover, but Seattle IS going to win this game.  Seattle has the third-highest scoring offense in the NFL this season (New England's is second, though), but Seattle did that playing a way tougher schedule.  We are well past the time to start believing in Sam Darnold, especially since he has Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

New England Patriots versus Seattle Seahawks UNDER 45 1/2

Tough - and I mean Tough defenses.  Both of their averages on the season total 36 points given up.

Charlie Puth National Anthem UNDER 119 minutes

Why not?!

Interception on Playing Starting in the Red Zone -160 (Bet $160 to win $100)

Had to take this bet given the Super Bowl history between the two teams.

Kenneth Walker OVER 70 1/2 rushing yards

With Zach Charbonnet being injured, this bet HAS to come in for Seattle to win.  Walker the Workhorse.

Kayshon Boutte OVER 2 1/2 receptions

Somebody will have to catch the ball, and I expect the Seahawks will take away Stefon Diggs as much as possible.

Cooper Kupp OVER 3 1/2 receptions

Similar storyline to Boutte above, but Kupp has been here before.

Rashid Shaheed OVER 4 1/2 rushing yards

Seattle will find ways to utilize this weapon, and a couple of jet sweeps might do it.

Rashid Shaheed OVER 32 1/2 receiving + rushing yards

See above.

Longest Field Goal Made OVER 50 1/2 yards.

Yards hard to come by on offense + quality of kickers + K Ball.

Total Field Goals Made OVER 3 1/2

See above!

Hunter Henry OVER 38 1/2 receiving yards

A lot of checkdowns today!

Trayveon Henderson OVER 4 Receiving yards

This could be just one reception!

BIG BET OF THE WEEK

Seattle Seahawks -235 Moneyline (Bet $235 to win $100) v. New England Patriots

New England might cover, but Seattle IS going to win this game.  Seattle has the third-highest scoring offense in the NFL this season (New England's is second, though), but Seattle did that playing a way tougher schedule.  We are well past the time to start believing in Sam Darnold, especially since he has Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

Seattle is THE best team today, and it isn't even close.  The Patriots barely beat the Broncos with Jarrett Stidham starting at QB.

Kenneth Walker OVER 70 1/2 rushing yards

With Zach Charbonnet being injured, this bet HAS to come in for Seattle to win.  Walker the Workhorse.

Cooper Kupp OVER 3 1/2 receptions

Similar storyline to Boutte above, but Kupp has been here before.

Longest Field Goal Made OVER 50 1/2 yards.

Yards hard to come by on offense + quality of kickers + K Ball.

Last Week Record: 5-1

Last Week Big Bet: 1-1

Playoff Record: 18-18 

Playoff Big Bet:  2-4

Year-to-Date Record: 144-158-3

Year-to-Date Big Bet: 8-16

Last Week Winnings (Losses): $375

Playoff Winnings (Losses):  ($453.20)

Year-to-Date Winnings (Losses): ($4,453.20)

Olympics - Milano/Cortina 2026 - Day 3/February 6

 

Day 3 is the official start of the Olympics, with the Opening Ceremonies, and with some events scheduled during the day as well, this IS the real start of the games - with apologies to mixed doubles curling and women's ice hockey.

The Opening Ceremonies dominate the coverage, as well as the minds of the athletes, spectators and fans, so we will open with our thoughts on the best moments of the Opening Ceremonies, which I will take in ascending order!

10.  In the middle of the fashion world in Milan, fashion was ironically missing from the Opening Ceremonies.  Czechia tried something unusual - and for that they receive kudos from me, but it was too busy and missed.  Iran's winter beanies worked - as simple as they were, with just back beanies with stark with "IRAN" on the front.  But the best of the night was Canada's coats, which contained a huge maple leaf in the front of the coat.

9.  Mariah Carey - singing in Italian!!!  Phenomenal.

8.  Nothing specific, but just the overall artistic value of the ceremonies with its tribute to art, sculpture, classical music, opera, dance, drama and everything else in the world of art, architecture, music and culture was fantastic.

7.  JD Vance's reception by the fans in attendance when the camera focused on him during the US delegation's entrance to the San Siro - which included a large amount of boos, whistles and jeers, which was telling especially given ...

6.  The amazing cheers and screams that welcomed the Ukranian delegation!

5.    IOC President Kristy Coventry's welcome speech, emphasizing the fact that all of the athletes present at the Olympics qualified, and the fact THAT in and of itself is the achievement.  She is the first female and first African to head the IOC.

4.  Charlize Theron appearing as the IOC Peace Ambassador was absolutely stunning!

Just think how great these last 3 had to be to upstage Charlize Theron!!!

3.  Milan IS fashion, and these models entering the stadium in suits to mimic the Italian flag was awesome!!!  Especially given that it doubled as a tribute to Milan native Giorgio Armani.

2.  ANDREA BOCELLI just killing his version of Nessun Dorma!

Now ordinarily, Bocelli would be number 1 on ANY Opening Ceremonies list the way her performed in Milan, but, sometimes a structural or logistical revolution really does change the way we look at things, and in this case ...

1.  Multiple Opening Ceremonies locations!  Every athlete, no matter where they were stationed to prepare their events, were able to participate as the Opening Ceremonies CAME TO THEM!!!  Usually, numerous athletes would just skip the ceremonies, but no attending is an option for EVERYBODY!  The simultaneous entries into the 4 locales was fantastic, and you could tell from teh athletes' reactions that they loved it.  This is going to stay!

Lots of training took place on day 3, but actual competition continued in women's ice hockey, mixed doubles curling, and Team figure skating.

In women's Ice Hockey, Japan defeated France 3-2, and Switzerland was victorious over Czechia 4-3.

In Mixed Doubles Curling, the host team from Italy won 2 matches, beating Switzerland 12-4 and Estonia 7-4, whereas two matches were also won by Great Britain, which was victorious over Sweden and Korea.

The American team of Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin kept pace and improved to 4-0 in Round Robin play by defeating Canada 7-5 and demolishing Czechia 8-1!  The semi-finals are definitely in play for the Americans!

And, the Team Figure Skating event kicked off, with 3 of the 8 team events being held on Friday.  For those that do not know, the team event is where a country enters women, men, pairs, and ice dancing competitors in short programs (called rhythm dance in ice dancing) and a long program.  The participants in each event are ranked, with the winner receiving 10 points for their country, 9 for second place, 8 for third place, etc.   The country with the most points after 8 events wins the gold medal.

The team event kicked off with the Ice Dancing rhythm dance, and the US team of Madison Chock and Evan Bates took home first place, and a needed 10 points for Team USA.  Next was the pairs short program which was won by Japan's Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara won the 10 points for their country, with the USA finishing 5th.

Japan kept the pressure on the United States - and increased its lead in the Team Event, as Kaori Sakamato took first place in the women's short program.  Alysa Liu did win a much-needed 9 points for the US by finishing second with five events remaining.

Athlete of the Day - Kaori Sakamato, Japan, Figure Skating

An amazing performance in the short program to put Japan in the lead of the team event, and putting herself into the conversation for gold in the individual event as well.

U.S. Athlete of the Day - Korey Dropkin, Curling

The team is 4-0, and Dropkin has been throwing beautifully so far.

Team of the Day - Italy, Mixed Doubles, Curling

The host team - and reigning Olympic champions - Amos Mosaner and Stefania Constantini dominated their opponents to virtually secure a spot in the Semi-Finals.

U.S. Team of the Day - Mixed Doubles, Curling

The Mixed Doubles Curling team secured another 2 victories, and Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin have legitimate sights on a medal!

Olympic Term of the Day:  End - A division of a game in curling, similar to an inning in baseball, where both teams have the opportunity to throw eight stones each (five in mixed doubles), alternating with the opponent.

Olympic Events Watched:  Curling, Figure Skating, Opening Ceremonies

USA Closing Ceremony Flag-Bearer Possibilities (listed alphabetically):  Evan Best, Madison Chock, Korey Dobkin, Hilary Knight, Hayley Scamurra, Cory Thiesse

Olympics - Milano Cortina 2026 - Day 2/February 5

 

Day 2 is in the books, with round robin sessions in Mixed Doubles Curling and Women's Ice Hockey, which both contained the American debuts!

In curling, Great Britain had the most dominating win in the opener, defeating Estonia 10-5, but then came back later in the day to win a nailbiter over Czechia 8-7.

The United States team with Korey Dropkin (pictured below) and Cory Thiesse (pictured above) throwing the stones, defeated Norway after falling behind 6-4 after sixth end.  In the seventh end, holding the hammer, Cory Thiesse threw a remarkable counter-clockwise take-out, to knock out the shot rock of Norway and to score 2 points to tie the match, and then she came back to throw a beautiful draw with the 9th stone, to protect Dropkin's shot rock to end the match, 8-6.  Team USA cruised to victory over Switzerland 7-4, after taking a 5-2 lead after the 4th end to go 2-0 and in the round robin tournament.

In women's ice hockey, The United States came out strong to defeat Czechia 5-1, in the largest victory of the day.  The United States was paced by a brace from Hayley Scamurra (pictured below), with other goals scored by Alex Carpenter, Joy Dunne, and Ms. America, Hilary Knight!

In other matchups, Sweden defeated Germany 4-1 and host Italy defeated France 4-1.

Athlete of the Day - Jennifer Dodds, Great Britain, Curling

Threw shot rock in the decisive 7th - and last - end, in which Great Britain picked up 4 points in the match against Estonia, and then came back against Czechia in the 7th and penultimate end to score the winning point - without holding shot rock!

U.S. Athlete of the Day - Hayley Scamurra, Hockey

Scored 2 goals in the United State's opener.

Team of the Day - Italy, Women's Ice Hockey

The host team winning its debut 4-1 against France is a great start for Italy.

U.S. Team of the Day - Mixed Doubles, Curling

It could have been the women's hockey team, but the Mixed Doubles Curling team secured 2 victories!

Olympic Term of the Day:  End - A division of a game in curling, similar to an inning in baseball, where both teams have the opportunity to throw eight stones each (five in mixed doubles), alternating with the opponent.

Olympic Events Watched:  Curling, Ice Hockey

USA Closing Ceremony Flag-Bearer Possibilities (listed alphabetically):  Korey Dobkin, Hilary Knight, Hayley Scamurra, Cory Thiesse

Olympics - Milano Cortina 2026 - Day 1/February 4

 

The first day of competition kicked-off with Mixed Doubles Curling, the only action (besides training sessions, to take place on the first day of competition.  Given that the quantity of the contests was so small, I will update the entirety of the day.

Sweden 10-3 over Korea

Great Britain 8-6 over Norway

Canada 10-5 over Czechia

Switzerland 9-7 over Estonia

In the opener, Seden did not have the hammer, but behind the shot of Isabella Wranaa, managed to secure 4 points in the 4th end, to turn a 5-3 close match into a 9-3 route.

In the next match, Great Britain took a7-6 lead but with the hammer into the 8th end.  Bruce Mouat managed to secure 1 point in the 8th to secure the win.

Canada, holding onto a 7-4 lead entering the 6th end, managed to open the game wide open on a stunning clockwise raise by Joceyln Peterman to take 3 points from the end and to expand their lead to 10-4.

The last match was absolutely remarkable, as the Swiss held a 5-1 lead after 5 ends.  The Estonian team of Marie Kaldvee and Harri Lill managed to close the gap to 5-3 in the 6th end, but the Swiss stormed back in the 7th to score 2 more of their own.  But, the Estonian duo score four in the 8th end to send the match into an extra end, where the Swiss team of Yannick Schwaller and Briar Schwaller-Huerlimann edged the Estonians by 2.

Athlete of the Day - Yannick Schwaller, Switzerland, Curling

He threw stones 4, 6, and 8 in the extra end to secure victory.

U.S. Athlete of the Day - N/A

Team of the Day - Sweden Mixed, SWE, Curling

The most dominating of the four matches played yesterday.

U.S. Team of the Day - N/A

Olympic Term of the Day:  Bonspiel - A tournament in which curlers compete.

Olympic Events Watched:  Curling

USA Closing Ceremony Flag-Bearer Possibilities (listed alphabetically): N/A to date

Olympic Kick-Off - Opening Ceremonies Flag Bearers

 

The Winter Olympics starts today - yes today - in Milano Cortina!  I know the Opening Ceremonies are Friday, but the events actually start today.  So let's kickoff our Olympic coverage by getting to know your Opening Ceremonies flag-bearers:  Erin Jackson and Frank Del Duca!!!

Erin Jackson - a 33-year old speed skater from Ocala, Florida - was truly the only correct selection from the women's team to be the US Flag bearer (with major apologies to Jessie Diggins!)  Jackson qualified for her first Olympics in Pyeongchang in 2018, after having speed-skated on ice for only 4 months after transitioning from inline skating.  She finished 24th in the 500 meters, but just skyrocketed from there.  In 2021, she won her first 500-meter world cup event in Poland, breaking the track record not once, but twice.  She qualified for Beijing in 2022, where she won gold, becoming the first black woman to win a Winter Olympic gold in a solo sport.  

Heading into Milaon-Cortina, Jackson finished first in the U.S. Olympic trials in both the 500 meters, where she looks to defend her title, and the 1,000 meters.

Frank Del Duca is also from Florida, having been born in Broward County, Florida, but was raised and lives in Bethel, Maine, where he trains as the best U.S. Bobsled driver in both the two-man and four-man sleds.  He led his sled to fourth-place finishes in both races in the 2025 World Cup, making him a solid contender to become the first US medalist in the events since 2014 in Sochi, where Steve Holcomb silvered in both disciplines, and the first to win gold since 1932 in Lake Placid (4-man; William Fiske) and 1936 in Garmish-Partenkirchen (2-man; Ivan Brown).

Congratulations Erin and Frank, and lead us well!!!

Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Preview

 

So for everybody that knows me, they know that I absolutely LOVE the Olympics!!!  Always have, ever since I was a kid.  I used to read books and watch video series just on the Olympics.  The book Rome 1960 by David Maraniss is one the best sports books ever written.  (And he has written some GREAT ones!).  So, be prepared for daily recaps from all the competitions as we start the quadrennial soiree this week.

But, for starters, I am going to kick-off the Milano-Cortina games.  This is Mialno's first time hosting the games; Cortina d'Ampezzo hosted the Games in 1956.  This kick-off is going to highlight the best bets to win medals in the games.  Since some events - like hockey - have so much talent, any given country isn't likely to actually medal compared to some of the individual events, so this list is heavily focused on individuals (or small teams).  Let's kick it off ...

10.  Chloe Kim - Snowboarding - USA 

Kim is the two-time defending gold medalist in the half-pipe, having secured the gold in Pyeongchang in 2018 and repeated in Beijing in 2022.  Her main competitors are her teammate Maddie Mastro, New Zealand's Zoe Sadowski-Synott, and Murase Kokomo from Japan.

9.  Marielle Thompson/BandonMackay - Freestyle Skiing - CAN

Two of Canada's most likely individual medalist as Thompson returns to the Olympics having won gold in 2014 in Sochi, and silver in Beijing in 2022 in Ski-Cross.  MacKay enters his second Olympics looking for his first medal, but his is the reigning world champ in the half-pipe. 

8.  Hwang Dae-heon- Short Track Speedskating - KOR

Arguably the best of a very talented South Korean short track speedskating team, he gets the nod here even though youngster Rim Jong-un won the national team trials.  This team might be unbeatable in the relays, except the variables in this sport (one slip, bump or another falling skater) are higher than any other!

7.  Ilia Malinin - Figure Skating - USA

The "Quad God" is the overwhelming favorite for men's gold (as he should be) having just recently won the World Championships by landing seven - YES 7!!! - quads.

6.  Eileen Gu - Freestyle Skiiing - CHN

The extremely talented American-born 22-year old has already made her mark in the sport, having won 2 golds (Big Air/Halfpipe) and 1 silver (Slopestyle) in Beijing in 2022 and several World Championships, Winter X Games, and World Cup podiums!

5.  Stefan Kraft - AUT/Ryoyu Kobayashi - JAP - Ski Jumping

Kraft is one of the most successful ski jumpers of all time, having won 45 times and placed on the podium 127 in individual starts, and 17 wins with 46 podiums in 65 team starts.  The only thing missing is major Olympic success with just 1 team gold in 7 total events across the last two Olympics.  Kobayashi has 37 wins and 77 podiums in 245 starts, with 1 team win, and 10 podium in 53 team starts.  He is the reigning gold medalist in the normal hill and reigning silver medalist in the large hill.

4.  Scotty James - AUS/Ayumu Hirano - JAP - Snowboarding

You should expect nothing but medals from these two, as James has previously won silver (2022) and bronze (2018) in the Olympic halfpipe, but 8 golds, 2 silvers and 2 bronzes in the Winter X Games, and 4 golds and 1 silver in the World Championships.  Hirano is the reigning gold medalist in the halfpipe, having won 2 previous silvers in the same event in 2014 and 2018.  He has also won 2 golds and 2 silvers in teh Winter X Games.

3.  Mikaela Shiffrin - Alpine Skiing - USA

Lindsay Vonn receives all of the hype, but even before her recent ACL tear Shiffrin was the surer bet.  The greatest female alpine skier is the hands-down favorite to win the slalom, and among the favorites in the giant slalom and combined.

2.  Johanes Hosflot-Klaebo - Cross-Country Skiing/Jarl Magnus Riiber - Nordic Combined/Johanes Thingnes Bo - Biathlon - NOR

These three giants are among the reason that the overwhelming favorite to win the most medals and most golds is Norway.

1.    Francesco Friedrich/Johannes Lochner - Bobsled - GER

These two bobnsledding legends are likely to finish 1-2 in both the 2-man and 4-man bobsledding events.  The only question is who will best whom?  Friedrich won gold driver both the 2-man and 4-man sleds in Pyeongchang (2018) and Beijing (2022) and Lochner won silver in both events in Beijing.  This year Lochner has 6 firsts and 1 second in 7 2-man events, and 3 firsts and 4 seconds in 7 4-man events.  Friedrich has 1 first, 4 seconds and 2 thirds in the 7 2-man events and 2 first, 2 seconds and 2 thirds in the 4-man.  One site even ranks Friedrich as the 30th greatest German athlete of all time, and no doubt, both of these men will rise on that list with expected performances in Milano-Cortina.  Here is the link to that list of the Best German Athletes

Picks of the Week - CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND

This season has been a shit-show, so last weekend should have been no surprise, even with a great start to the playoffs in the Wildcard Round.  I am not going to waste a lot of my time on this, since I know how it is going to turn out anyway.

A reminder, all bets are for $100 expect for the Big Bet, which is $250.  All losses incur a vig of 10%.  On to the picks.

New England Patriots -3 1/2 at Denver Broncos

Even though Bo Nix may have regressed a bit this year, this team is still way better with him than any backup that hasn't taken many snaps in a long time.  Best of luck to Jarrett Stidham, but I am not betting on it.

New England Patriots -210 Moneyline (Bet $210 to win $100) at Denver Broncos

If I think they are going to cover a 3 1/2 points spread on the road, I damn sure am going to pick them to win outright.

New England Patriots at Denver Broncos UNDER 43 1/2

Tough defenses and a backup quarterback.

Seattle Seahawks -2 v. Los Angeles Rams

Seattle has - by far - played the best of any team in the NFL this entire season.  The Rams were at that level at one point, and are amazing offensively (1st in Passing Offense, 1st in Scoring Offense, 2nd in Total Offense and 7th in Rushing Offense), which it will need in going against the toughest defense in the NFL to score against.

Seattle Seahawks -135 Moneyline (Bet $135 to win $100) v. Los Angeles Rams

Just like in the early game, if I think they are going to cover the spread, I should pick them to win outright.

Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks OVER 45 1/2

This feels like it could be similar to the Week 16 38-37 barnburner.

BIG BET OF THE WEEK

New England Patriots -3 1/2 at Denver Broncos

Even though Bo Nix may have regressed a bit this year, this team is still way better with him than any backup that hasn't taken many snaps in a long time.  Best of luck to Jarrett Stidham, but I am not betting on it.

The Bo Nix injury at least made it so I don't have to even think about this choice.

Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks OVER 45 1/2

This feels like it could be similar to the Week 16 38-37 barnburner.

I am hoping for at least one really good, fun, close game this weekend - I hope it is this one.

Last Week Record: 1-11

Last Week Big Bet: 0-2

Playoff Record: 13-17 

Playoff Big Bet:  1-3

Year-to-Date Record: 139-157-3

Year-to-Date Big Bet: 7-15

Last Week Winnings (Losses): ($1440)

Playoff Winnings (Losses):  ($828.20)

Year-to-Date Winnings (Losses): ($4,928.20)

Picks of the Week - NFL DIVISIONAL ROUND

 

An actual great start to the playoffs, and with a play or two going in the other direction, I could have cut a big chunk into my yearly deficit.  As it is, I am not going to complain as we had some really excellent football during Wildcard Weekend - and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

And this week we should have some more phenomenal games.  In the NFC we have 3 western division teams, which have been the class of the conference all year, and the upstart cardiac Chicago Bears, who get to host a game in 20 degree temperatures!  In the AFC, we have one of the best defenses we have ever seen (Houston), one of the best players we have ever seen (Allen), and two teams that are way more than the sum of their parts (Denver and New England).  Let's get to the games!

A reminder, all bets are for $100 expect for the Big Bet, which is $250.  All losses incur a vig of 10%.  On to the picks.

Buffalo Bills +1 1/2 at Denver Broncos

Everything about this game screams "Broncos!"  They are coming off a bye and Buffalo is on a short week having played a tough game against the Jaguars on Sunday.  The Broncos are the number 1 seed in the AFC.  And to top it all off, the money has overwhelming come in on Denver so far as this spread started with Buffalo -1 1/2.  But, It is hard to look at these games and see that Denver is the better team.  Denver's strength is its defense, where it finished 4th overall.  But Buffalo's defense finished 7th overall, giving up only 3 yards more per game.  And, Buffalo has the much - MUCH - better offense (3rd overall and 4th in scoring versus Denver's 12th overall and 14th in scoring).  And who do you trust more to make plays - Josh Allen or Bo Nix?

Buffalo Bills EVEN Moneyline (Bet $100 to win $100) at Denver Broncos

This line also opened with Buffalo being -112, so the money is definitely coming in on the Broncos.  But, I don't follow early money; I follow late money, and I suspect the late money will start coming in on the Bills.  For all of the reasons stated above, and because Buffalo has the number 1 ranked rushing offense in the NFL, I think the Bills will not only cover, but win outright.

Buffalo Bills at Denver Broncos UNDER 46 1/2

I mentioned above that the Bills have the number 1 rushing offense in the NFL, and relying on a rushing game takes time off the clock - and lessens possessions.  Add to that fact that Denver has the second-best defense against the run in the NFL and this game is going to be a slog.

San Francisco 49ers +7 at Seattle Seahawks

This is another one which screams "Seahawks" because Seattle earned a bye and home-field advantage as the number 1 seed in the NFC, and San Francisco lost George Kittle last week - another in a long, long line of injuries for the 49ers.  But, Seattle is dealing with a new injury of its own in Sam Darnold's oblique injury which has him listed as questionable.  Now, I don't for a second believe that he won't play, but if this hinders him even just a bit - a touchdown spread becomes A LOT of points.  Remember, Sam Darnold doesn't have the best big game/playoff reputation when healthy (See Vikings, Minnesota 2025).  Plus, if he cannot go - the Seahawks backup is Drew Lock, far from an imposing figure in the pocket.  Add to that they played an incredibly tough game against each other in Week 18 (Seattle winning 13-3), and this game should be close.

San Francisco 49ers +270 Moneyline (Bet $100 to win $270) at Seattle Seahawks

It is one thing to take the points in this game, but the Moneyline?  This is purely a numbers pick.  Seattle is at -340 right now, meaning I would have to be $340 to win $100, so the ML spread is about $610, so I am taking this bet knowing Seattle is likely to win, but taking a low-risk flyer for some actual money.

San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks UNDER 45

Did you see the last score of 13-3 just two weeks ago?

Houston Texans +3 1/2 at New England Patriots

Yes New England will be at home in inclement weather, but it isn't like Houston has a high-flying offense.  They win with tough - and I mean TOUGH - defense (number 1 in the NFL in total defense and 2nd in scoring defense).  New England is no slouch in that department either (8th in Total defense and 4th in scoring defense), but their offense is way more likely to be affected by the weather than Houston's. Add that to the fact that Houston has probably forgotten how to lose (as they haven't lost since an 18-15 defeat to the Denver Broncos in Week 9 on November 2, and I will gladly take points here.

Houston Texans +150 Moneyline (Bet $100 to win $150) at New England Patriots

Yes, the underdogs are flying here this weekend, as it seems that we have the weakest group of hosts in recent memory for the divisional round.  Honestly, the smart play if probably a New England victory here, but until Houston loses, I am going to keep taking them.

Houston Texans at New England Patriots UNDER 40 1/2 

And a third straight under.  The weather could play a real big part in this, but through the entire year both teams combined averaged allowing only 36.2 points per game, so this isn't a ridiculous pick by any stretch of the imagination.  Houston's under hit last week and the number was at 38 1/2!

Chicago Bears +4 v. Los Angeles Rams

So I am taking all 4 underdogs, even though in this game the underdog is the home team.  The Bears, even in defeat, have done nothing but keep final games close.  Add to that the fact that the game will be played in about 21 degree weather with wind, and you can rest assured that both teams will rely on their run games, which has a tendency to keep games close.

Chicago Bears +172 Moneyline (Bet $100 to win $172) v. Los Angeles Rams

If I am going to go all the way with underdogs, I might has well go ALL THE WAY with underdogs!

Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears OVER 48 1/2

This bet makes no sense, even to me and I am making it, but I cannot select 4 underdogs AND 4 unders.

BIG BET OF THE WEEK

San Francisco 49ers +7 at Seattle Seahawks

This is another one which screams "Seahawks" because Seattle earned a bye and home-field advantage as the number 1 seed in the NFC, and San Francisco lost George Kittle last week - another in a long, long line of injuries for the 49ers.  But, Seattle is dealing with a new injury of its own in Sam Darnold's oblique injury which has him listed as questionable.  Now, I don't for a second believe that he won't play, but if this hinders him even just a bit - a touchdown spread becomes A LOT of points.  Remember, Sam Darnold doesn't have the best big game/playoff reputation when healthy (See Vikings, Minnesota 2025).  Plus, if he cannot go - the Seahawks backup is Drew Lock, far from an imposing figure in the pocket.  Add to that they played an incredibly tough game against each other in Week 18 (Seattle winning 13-3), and this game should be close.

This game just has to be close, right?

Houston Texans at New England Patriots UNDER 40 1/2 

And a third straight under.  The weather could play a real big part in this, but through the entire year both teams combined averaged allowing only 36.2 points per game, so this isn't a ridiculous pick by any stretch of the imagination.  Houston's under hit last week and the number was at 38 1/2!

I am all-in on this Houston Defense.  One of the best three or four I have ever seen.  1985/1986 Bears; Early 2000s Ravens, the Tampa Bay Super Bowl winner (not with Brady), and this one.  Scary good.

Last Week Record: 12-6

Last Week Big Bet: 1-1

Playoff Record: 12-6 

Playoff Big Bet:  1-1 

Year-to-Date Record: 138-148-3

Year-to-Date Big Bet: 7-13

Last Week Winnings (Losses): $611.80

Playoff Winnings (Losses):  $611.80

Year-to-Date Winnings (Losses): ($3,488.20)

Picks of the Week - NFL WILDCARD WEEKEND

 

OK - the worst NFL season of my picking career is finished, and we are now on to the Wildcard Round!!!  Hooray for that, at least.  Since the playoffs offer many less games to choose, I will be selecting each game Against the Spread, with the Money Line, and the Over/Under.  Also, I might have two Big Bets.  Let's see how that goes!

A reminder, all bets are for $100 expect for the Big Bet, which is $250.  All losses incur a vig of 10%.  On to the picks.

Carolina Panthers +10 1/2 v. Los Angeles Rams

In no way, shape or form do I think that Carolina deserves to be in the playoffs, nor do I think they have a chance to win this game.  But - and it is a big BUT - the NFL placed this game in the Saturday afternoon window, which means the Pacific Time Zone team has to travel to the Eastern Time Zone to play a game on a short week.  This spells gambling trouble, and since it seems too easy to just pick the Rams, I have to take double-digit points.

Los Angeles Rams -600 Moneyline (Bet $600 to win $100) at Carolina Panther

The Rams have the league's highest-scoring offense and the second-best Total Offense.  Carolina is going to have trouble getting Los Angeles' offense off the field, ranking 31st in defensive first-down percentage.  Rams win, but it will be way closer than it should be.

Los Angeles Rams at Carolina Panthers UNDER 46 1/2

The ordinarily high-flying Rams offense is going to be slow to takeoff, and Carolina is going to try to keep this game on the ground to keep possessions low.

Chicago Bears +1 1/2 v. Green Bay Packers

Both of the first two games between these two long-time rivals came down to the final play (each with the ball in Caleb Williams' hand).  There is no reason to think that this one will be any different.  Plus, getting points at home in an intra-divisional rivalry is always a good play.   And, it is a short week.

Green Bay Packers -112 Moneyline (Bet $112 to win $100) at Chicago Bears

But, the above notwithstanding, the Packers had the lead in both previous games, and would have won the second if not for the fact Chicago recovered an onside kick.  Smart play here is Green Bay, and given that Chicago money line is anywhere from even to -108, and this bet is a no-brainer.  That being said, I hope I lose this one.

Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears OVER 45 1/2

I feel like both of these teams could score 21 in their sleep against each other, so all I need is basically one additional score.  So I'll take the over.

Buffalo Bills +1 at Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars have been playing great, but even with what seems like a subpar season performance-wise, the Bills still have Josh Allen and the 3rd-best total offense (and 4th-highest scoring offense) in the NFL.  Jacksonville's rush defense is stout (best in the NFL), but the passing defense is 21st.

 

Buffalo Bills -112 Moneyline (Bet $112 to win $100) at Jacksonville Jaguars

If I am expecting the Bills to win (which is what +1 basically means), then I have to take their money line.  It is weird that the Bills are favored in MoneyLine Bets and some even have them as favorite against the spread - this is a bizarre game to prognosticate.

Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars OVER 51 1/2

Two of the 6 highest-scoring offenses in the league, in a southern stadium (no snow!).

San Francisco 49ers +5 1/2 at Philadelphia Eagles

So this particular Pacific Time Zone team gets the afternoon slot on Sunday, which helps immeasurably in covering the spread.  I also think they are the better team.  They are 8th in total offense and 5th in passing offense.   Philadelphia, on the other hand, is 24th overall in total offense.  They are a good, but flawed team, and San Francisco was fairly close to being the number 1 overall seed in the NFC.

San Francisco 49ers +200 Moneyline (Bet $100 to win $200) at Philadelphia Eagles

A healthy, healthy dose of Christian McCaffrey, a wide-array of offensive talent, and a favorable money line all make this to be a good bet.

San Francisco 49ers at Philadelphia Eagles OVER 44 1/2

A high-flying offense and a couple of tush pushes makes this the play.

Los Angeles Chargers +3 1/2 at New England Patriots

Another Pacific Time Zone team playing in the Eastern Time Zone, but this is at night!  These are two very evenly matched teams with New England a little better on offense (4th versus 10th) and the Chargers a little better on defense (2nd versus 8th).   Given this, I will take the points, and an angry Harbaugh over his brother's firing.

Los Angeles Chargers +165 Moneyline (Bet $100 to win $165) at New England Patriots

If I think that the Chargers are going to cover the spread, then I damn sure am going to take them with the Moneyline.  It is time for Justin Herbert to play like we all think Justin Herbert should be playing.

Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots UNDER 46 1/2

Two tough, stubborn defenses.

Houston Texans -3 at Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers won the AFC north by backing in after a Tyler Loop missed 44-yard FG.  The Texans have won 9 in a row and 10 of their last 11.  And that defense!!!  They finished 1st in Total Defense, 2nd in Scoring Defense, 4th in Rushing Defense, 6th in Third-Down percentage defense, and 6th in Passing Defense.  Pittsburgh's best offensive stats are 15th in Scoring, and 22nd in Passing.

Houston Texans -155 Moneyline (Bet $155 to win $100) at Pittsburgh Steelers

I am getting lucky on this line as it opened at -175.  That being said, this game has all the signs of a trap for gamblers.  An obvious favorite, but on the road, with a wildcard in favor of the underdog (Aaron Rodgers and Chris Boswell kicking in Heinz).  Nevertheless, I am taking Houston.

Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers UNDER 38 1/2

Gonna be a whole lot of field goals in this one!

BIG BET OF THE WEEK

San Francisco 49ers +5 1/2 at Philadelphia Eagles

So this particular Pacific Time Zone team gets the afternoon slot on Sunday, which helps immeasurably in covering the spread.  I also think they are the better team.  They are 8th in total offense and 5th in passing offense.   Philadelphia, on the other hand, is 24th overall in total offense.  They are a good, but flawed team, and San Francisco was fairly close to being the number 1 overall seed in the NFC.

San Francisco just has too much firepower, and Ricky Pearsall hasn't even gotten into a groove yet this year.  I expect big games from McCaffrey and George Kittle.

Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars OVER 51 1/2

Two of the 6 highest-scoring offenses in the league, in a southern stadium (no snow!).

I mean, this has to hit, right?

Last Week Record: 4-12

Last Week Big Bet: 0-1

Year-to-Date Record: 126-142-3

Year-to-Date Big Bet: 6-12

Last Week Winnings (Losses): ($1,085)

Year-to-Date Winnings (Losses): ($4,100)

NFL REGULAR SEASON REVIEW

 

The NFL regular season is over, and the playoffs will soon (5 days) be upon us.  So before that begins, let us take a look at the regular season as a whole, and what each team needs to address in the offseason. 

AFC EAST

New England Patriots (14-3) Took control of this division after a week 5 win at Buffalo, and never looked back.  This team could use a Wide Receiver/Tight End playmaker to take it over the top, given Stefon Diggs' volatility and legal problems.

Buffalo Bills (12-5) The Bills went 3-1 in the last quarter, but still just don't look sharp.  A big-play receiver and a strong run-stuffing DT should be the focus in the offseason.

Miami Dolphins (7-10) Quinn Ewers looks OK and could be serviceable - maybe more - as a starter.  The Dolphins need to get rid of Tua's contract and focus on finding strong, stable offensive lineman.

New York Jets (3-14)

Horrible year for the Jets.  They need a foundational quarterback above everything else.

AFC NORTH

Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)

The Steelers went 3-1 to cement the AFC North title on the last day.  Despite making the playoffs, they need to focus on a lot; wide receiver to run with D.K. Metcalf, offensive lineman to improve the running game, and an improved secondary.

Baltimore Ravens (8-9)

Injuries to Lamar Jackson hurt this season.  That and a horrible secondary led to their demise.  They should focus on a veteran corner, and a young, talented corner in the preseason.

Cincinnati Bengals (6-11)

Another team just crippled by injuries.  They need to focus on a big defensive tackle and linebackers.

Cleveland Browns (5-12)

Cleveland had a very good 2024 draft:  Mason Graham DT, Carson Schewsinger (LB), Quinshon Judkins (RB), Harold Fannin, Jr. (TE), and Shadeur Sanders (QB) all hit.  They primarily need to focus on obtaining a playmaker for Sanders at WR, and protection as well in the OL.

 

AFC SOUTH

Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4)

What a year.  Might focus on a big-play corner or pass rusher.

Houston Texans (12-5)

They have won 9 in a row!!!  Certainly clicking at the right time.  Team should focus on a dynamic running back, and nobody would be mad at offensive linemen.

Indianapolis Colts (8-9)

Lost seven straight to end the season without Daniel Jones.  Offseason focus should be on bolstering the secondary and another pass rusher to complement Laiatu Latu.

Tennessee Titans (3-14)

The focus should be on playmakers and protection for Cam Ward, who looks legitimate despite being on a last-place team.

AFC WEST

Denver Broncos (14-3)

Finished the year out 3-1 to secure home-field advantage in the AFC.  They need to focus on a dynamic running back, and a playmaker at receiver.

Los Angeles Chargers (11-6)

The Chargers remain dangerous as they enter the playoffs.  They are solid in every phase, so they just need to focus on adding talent at any position that is available to them.

Kansas City Chiefs (6-11)

The Chiefs finished 0-4 without Patrick Mahomes due to injury.  They need to focus on an every-down running back, a possession receiver with hands to compliment Rashee Rice, and replacement for Travis Kelce!(?)

Las Vegas Raiders (3-14)

Earning the number 1 pick in the draft gifts them Fernando Mendoza.  They need to focus on a coaching staff that can unlock his best qualities and develop him into a star, and protect him with lineman.

NFC EAST

Philadelphia Eagles (11-6)

Not the same team as last year, but they could still make a run.  The team needs to focus on the passing game.  They have the players, so maybe a new passing-game coordinator, or offensive coordinator?

Dallas Cowboys (7-9-1)

This team has more talent than their record.  After waiving Trevon Diggs, they really need to focus on the secondary, at corner and safety.  A pass rusher wouldn't hurt either.

Washington Commanders (5-12)

A healthy Jayden Daniels would mean the world to this team.  Offseason focus should be on a complimentary playmaker to Terry McLaurin, and improvement to the secondary.

New York Giants (4-13)

The first overall pick would have been nice, but that didn't happen.  They need a big-time playmaking wide receiver, some receiver depth, and a run-stuffing defensive tackle and linebacker on the defensive side of the ball.

NFC NORTH

Chicago Bears (11-6)

This season has exceeded expectations for the Bears, and despite obvious holes in the team, they do not quit.  Their focus in the offseason should be on a top pass rusher to compliment Montez Sweat, and linebacker talent (either inside or for coverage - whichever help is available).

Green Bay Packers (9-7-1)

Lost a few down the stretch -  including to the Bears - to gift the Bears the division. Still really talented, the team should focus on a true number 1 receiver (I feel they have a bunch of good, not great receivers), and perhaps some linebacking help.

Minnesota Vikings (9-8)

An up-and-down year for the Vikings.  They need to focus on whether J.J. McCarthy is really it.  If so, figure out what works for him because they have the playmakers.  Perhaps some offensive lineman and interior defenders to round-out the roster.

Detroit Lions (9-8)

Disappointing season for the Lions.  They need to focus on acquiring a secondary pass rusher, and maybe some secondary help.

NFC SOUTH

Carolina Panthers (8-9)

Snuck into the playoffs with a sub-.500 record.  They need a lot of help.  With some talent here, they should focus on loading up on both lines.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)

Missed the playoffs despite defeating Carolina in the last week of the season.  They need to focus on secondary help as well as some young blood on offense.  A pass rusher would help too.

Atlanta Falcons (8-9)

The dreaded loser in the three-team tiebreaker.  Running game is sound, passing game decent when Michael Penix and Drake London are healthy.  Some strong lineman (offensive and defensive) should be the focus this offseason.

New Orleans Saints (6-11)

The Saints went 3-1 in the last quarter.  They need to focus on a young Alvin Kamara replacement to grow with Tyler Shough, and lineman to pave the way for that running back (and protect Shough).

NFC WEST

Seattle Seahawks (14-3)

The best team in the league.  Very solid in all phases.  They should maybe focus on a block/catch TE and a pass rusher.

Los Angeles Rams (11-3)

Another really solid team, finishing off a solid year.  Maybe a shut-down corner or a pass rusher.

San Francisco 49ers (11-3)

Easily the best division in football.  San Francisco should focus on secondary help and linebacker help/depth.  Fred Warner is not going to last forever.

Arizona Cardinals (3-14)

Winless in the last quarter.  They need literally everything.  They should focus on deciding whether Kyler Murray is their long-term QB first, and then just grab as much talent as possible anywhere on the field.

POWER RANKINGS - (The parentheses is the team's ranking at the three-quarter point)

1.  Seattle Seahawks 14-3 (4)

2.  San Francisco 49ers 14-3 (7)

3.  Los Angeles Rams 14-3 (3)

4.  New England Patriots 14-3 (1)

5.  Denver Broncos 14-3 (2)

6.  Jacksonville Jaguars 13-4 (10)

7.  Houston Texans 12-5 (12)

8.  Buffalo Bills 12-5 (9)

9.  Los Angeles Chargers 11-6 (6)

10.  Chicago Bears 11-6 (8)

11.  Philadelphia Eagles 11-6 (13)

12.  Pittsburgh Steelers 10-7 (16)

13.  Green Bay Packers 9-7-1 (5)

14.  Detroit Lions 9-8 (11)

15.  Minnesota Vikings 9-8 (22)

16.  Baltimore Ravens 8-9 (21)

17. Atlanta Falcons 8-9 (24)

18.  Carolina Panthers 8-9 (17)

19.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers 8-9 (15)

20.  Indianapolis Colts 8-9 (14)

21.  Dallas Cowboys 7-9-1 (18)

22.  Miami Dolphins 7-10 (20)

23.  New Orleans Saints 6-11 (29)

24.  Kansas City Chiefs 6-11 (19)

25.  Cincinnati Bengals 6-11 (23)

26.  Cleveland Browns 5-12 (25)

27.  Washington Commanders 5-12 (26)

28.  New York Giants 4-13 (31)

29.  Tennessee Titans 3-14 (30)

30.  Arizona Cardinals 3-14 (28)

31.  Las Vegas Raiders 3-14 (32)

32.  New York Jets 3-14 (27)

Biggest Movers:  Minnesota Vikings +7, Atlanta Falcons +7, New Orleans Saints +6, Green Bay Packers -8, Indianapolis Colts -6, Baltimore Ravens -5, Kansas City Chiefs -5

QUARTER SEASON AWARDS

Offensive MVP - Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams - Drake Maye is right there

Defensive MVP - Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns - Not even close

Offensive Rookie of the Year - Tetairoa McMillan, Carolina Panthers Tyler Shough closing FAST!

Defensive Rookie of the Year - Carson Schwesinger, Cleveland Browns - Pearce and Emmanwori next

Coach of the Year - Liam Cohen, Jacksonville Jaguars - And this isn't even close, but Vrabel will win

Most Improved - Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts - Who knew he was this good or important?

Comeback Player of the Year - Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers - Back to Form

And yes, I know the NFL does the MVP, then Offensive Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year.  I don't care.