The Weekly Gambling Debacle

NFL: 59-54-2 NCAA: 2-7-0 Last week: 4-2 Season total: 61-61-2

$ Wagered: 2330 $ Won: 1130.5 $ Lost: -1185.5 $Net: -55

A great weekend is finally upon us.

First, after a grueling 17 week season the NFL playoffs are finally upon us. And what a playoffs it is going to be. The NFC has two juggernauts (Pack and Saints), two predictables (Falcons and the consistently inconsistent Giants) and two unprovens (Lions and Niners). The AFC is wide open. We have three rookies (I gonna go ahead and count Tebow as a rookie for this purpose) starting playoff games, which the unpredictable is likely to unfold. Young starters, only one or less seasons under their belt, win or go home pressure, legitimate NFL playoff defenses, who knows how these young kids will react. Will they rise to the pressure? Will they crumble under it? No one really knows for sure. All we do know is each game is as compelling as the other three in this first week of the playoffs.

The second weekend your sports weekend will be great is the fact that (wait for it, wait for it) the Debacle is BACK! After a long, turkey-induced coma/break, the Debacle is back and ready to go for perfection... 11-0 ATS in the playoffs. That's what we're shooting for. I've never known anyone to do it. But I'm gonna give it my best shot. My season has been up and down, but still steadily improving. I am at exactly .500 now and went 4-2 with one upset outright win on the final regular season of the Debacle. So we are looking good heading into the win or go home portion of the NFL schedule. Four games on tap for the weekend and the first chance to go undefeated. As always home team in bold, lines courtesy of Las Vegas Hilton Sportsbook. And since it's the playoffs were throwing down $110 on every game.

Cincinnati (+4) over Houston

Sorry Texan fans, but I simply cannot trust a quarterback who has 5 starts under his belt and as of his Junior year at North Carolina wasn't even predicted to be an NFL prospect. He has filled in about as well as can be expected but the playoffs bring a magnifying glass to your shortcomings, especially at the QB position. Solid defense and a great zone running attack with Tate and Foster has kept the Texan in all games started by Yates. But simply stated, this is not the team that clinched a division titled relatively early in the season. They're on a three game losing streak with one of those defeats at the hands of the hapless Colts.

Cincy has been one of the surprise teams of this NFL season. With stellar season from rookies Andy Dalton and AJ Green the Bengals franchise has been revitalized. It seems like everything came together for the Bengals this season. Andre Smith cam back form season ending injury and has been a stud. That's three draft picks in two years that are bonefied legitimate NFL starters. Not bad for a franchise with a less than stellar draft record. This season they've been able to run the ball with Cedric Benson. They have legitimate talents on the receiving corp with Jermaine Gresham, Jerome Simpson and the aforementioned AJ Green. Their defense has been stellar. Their losses have all been to teams better than the Texans (even when they lost to the Texans a few weeks ago, who were a different team back then).

I like the Bengals in this matchup. They have a better quarterback, better wide receivers (with Andre Johnson injured) and have a defense nearly as good as the Texans. Homefiled advantage should keep this close for the Texans but I'd rather count on Andy Dalton than TJ Yates in a tight playoff game. Even if the Texans squeak out a three point victory, your still winning. Take the four points and the better QB.

Detroit (+10.5) over New Orleans

I know they world thinks that will crush the Lions. Here's a reason why it will be closer than the talking heads say it will be. The Lions, due to stupid and unnecessary penalties gave back over 200 yards in called back plays and defensive penalties. The way to beat the Saints is through a dominate pass rush, running the ball picking up third downs and staying on the field. The Lions will do none of that. And I'm not counting on a back door cover either. I like the game to stay close. I expect the Lions to rise to the occasion and take advantage of the weak back end of the Saint's secondary. That half point we got in last few days is huge. The Lions can lose by ten points and still cover. I know the Saints have covered every game at home this year. But ten and half to a motivated and viscous Lions team, I can't see them covering that.

New York (-3) over Atlanta

I'm gonna do it. I'm gonna place my faith in the Giants. You know the team that once you start believing in loses four straight games. The team that once you start believing in loses at home to the Seahawks. The team that once you start believing in lost to the Redskins with the chance to lock up the NFC East. Yes, I am going to believe once again. Why? The Falcons haven't beaten a good team all year... and they are consistent about that. They beat up on bad teams, play average against average teams and lose to good teams. Period. The game is outdoors, in the cold, where the Falcons haven't fared well this season either. Eli has the stronger arm and should be able to move the ball more through the air. Possibly a shootout, but one that the Giants win through their consistently inconsistent play.

Pittsburgh (-8.5) over Denver

What can Tebow do to finish up this epic season? Well he's not gonna win. Sorry, I know that a lot of people have been jumping on the Broncos ban wagon for this particular matchup. Big Ben is severely hobbled with a high ankle sprain. Rashard Mendenhall is out for the postseason. Maurice Pouncey is limited at Center. This is the only thing that is keeping this game close is the injuries. Denver's pass rush has been lethargic as of late, Tebow has become fumble prone and their offense has been embarassing to watch for three weeks straight. Without the Big ben injury the Steelers would probably chuck around the fiel on the back of Rothlesberger's amazing play extending abilities. Now, the game is close, but not close enough for a Tebow comeback. This is by far the best defense that the Denver run game has faced. Without their ability to run, Pittsburgh could get up early. I like a low scoring affair with a comfortable Pittsburgh win. One that could get away from Denver if their running game is stalled early.

The Weekly Gambling Debacle

NFL: 55-52-2 NCAA: 2-7-0 Last week: 4-6-2 Season total: 57-59-2

$ Wagered: 2005 $ Won: 900.5 $ Lost: -1075.5 $Net: -175.5

Happy Turkey day everyone! For the first time in my young (well not so young) memory we have three interesting and relevant games on Thanksgiving. That is truly something to be thankful for. A fun week of games with some surprisingly favorable lines; Great week of football, so let’s take some turkey and some wins!

NFL (Lines as of Wednesday, November 23, 2011 per Las Vegas Hilton. Home Team in bold).

Detroit (+6.5) over Green Bay

Green Bay is playing its third game in 11 days. That is a lot for anyone, even the defending world champs. The Lions offense went off in their last 9 possessions last week at home scoring 7 TDs after Matt Stafford’s opening 2 picks. The GB defense is surprisingly weak, especially against the pass. Combining this weakness with the emergence of Kevin Smith and a Lion’s ground offense should allow Detroit to put up some serious points and keep the game close. Whether or not they win, worst case scenario, they back door cover and lose by 3 or 4.

Dallas (-7) over Miami

I would love for this line to drop down to -6.5 and give us that additional half point on the cover. Maybe just go out there and buy that half point (pretty good idea actually). Miami has won three in a row, but against horrible competition. The Cowboys are on fire, their O-line is legit and Tony Romo should shred Miami’s weak pass defense. 6.5 would be great, but I’ll still take the seven.

Baltimore (-3) over San Francisco

The Ravens seem to play to up or down to their competition. They should be playing up to the second best team in the NFC. The battle of the Harbaughs should be a slugfest and close. The line came down from-5 to -3. Much easier to take now and Baltimore wins at home.

St. Louis (-3) over Arizona

My ridiculous picking of St. Louis continues. Hopefully the continued play of John “I wish I played as good as a” Skeleton will slot the Rams a victory.

NY Jets (-8) over Buffalo

Cincinnati (-7) over Cleveland

The Browns are actually going to have to score points in order for them to stay within 7. They will not.

Houston (-3) over Jacksonville

I actually think Matt Leinart will do well as the Houston QB. This is similar to the situation he had at USC. Two great running backs, best offensive line in every game, a game breaker on the outside and a top tier defense to rely on. Sounds like a recipe for success to me. And Leinart previously played for the quarterback destroying Ken Wisenhunt (please look at this man’s track record). This is not the scenario here.

Carolina (-3) over Indianapolis

How is this line this close? I know everyone looks at the 49 points that Carolina gave up last week and puts this line at 3. (Cough, cough…) The Colts are not the Lions. Take Coverin’ Cam, only getting three on turf. Carolina might score 40.

Tennessee (-3) over Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is not a good team and their weaknesses will be highlighted by the running attack and excellent tight end play of the Titans. I really like this bet.

Atlanta (-9.5) over Minnesota

Minnesota should have lost by 2 TDs last week against the Raiders at home. They pulled it close because of horrible decision making by the Raiders’ defense. Don’t look for this to happen this week. Atlanta big.

Washington (+3.5) over Seattle

I’m taking Washington’s good defense and the return of Sexy Rexy and Santana Moss as signs of life in the nation’s capital. Taking Washington to win out right.

Philadelphia (-4.5) over New England

This line is still off the table because of the Vick injury.

Denver (+6) over San Diego

Norv Turner is on his way out. The Broncos defense is looking stellar over the last four games. If you watched the Raiders beat the Chargers a few weeks ago you can see the game plan for Denver. Rush the weak O-line of San Diego and get tons of pressure on Phillip Rivers. Pound the running game and go over the top every once in a while. Tempted to take the Broncos outright here.

Pittsburgh (-10.5) over Kansas City

NY Giants (-7) over New Orleans

The Giants are a great road dog and a terrible home favorite. Let’s see, oh yeah, there a road dog. Let’s go Eli.

Picks to place money on: (All money wagers are $55 to win $50 unless otherwise noted)

*Just to clarify based on some questions that I have been asked:

-Wagering= Games I am telling you to put money onto/am betting myself.

-Near bets= Games that I was close to betting.

-Kryptonite= Games I am terrified of and you could not force me to gamble on.

*Betting a lot this week gotta make up some ground and I really like the lines were getting this week.

Wagering: Detroit, Cincinnati, Carolina, Tennessee, Denver and Washington (moneyline).

Near bets: None.

Kryptonite: None.

The Weekly Gambling Debacle

NFL: 51-46-0 NCAA: 2-7-0 Last week: 8-6-0 Season total: 53-53-0

$ Wagered: 1840 $ Won: 850.5 $ Lost: -1020.5 $Net: -170.5

Two weeks ago I predicted that week 9 would be my best gambling week yet. And your damn right it was!! 8-6 is nothing to burn a house down about, but picking 3 of my 4 wagers correctly and getting the Bengals to win out-right netted me a nice +$125 week. Bold prediction… check. Last week was my bye week. Had a lot going on and didn’t want to think that my previous week’s momentum could carry me through a week without proper research. For this week we have the proper research and are liking some of the lines. Now let’s keep this momentum going and make some damn money!

NFL (Lines as of Friday, November 18, 2011 per Las Vegas Hilton. Home Team in bold).

Atlanta (-6) over Tennessee

Atlanta has been playing great the last 4 weeks and was a few key breaks away from beating a very good New Orleans team last week. They get a Titans team coming off a surprisingly easy win against the Panthers. That win was a bit deceiving as the Panthers moved the ball and somehow committed a ridiculous amount of turnovers. The Titans’ win and Chris Johnson actually showing up last week has inflated this line a little bit. The Titans lack explosive playmakers (sans CJ 2000) and won’t be able to take advantage of the dome field advantage as much as the “built for turf” Falcons will. I see the Falcons winning by a touchdown.

Buffalo (+2) over Miami

Buffalo has been a bit exposed by the very good defenses of Dallas and New York. They don’t throw the ball downfield too much and they struggle when pressure gets to Fitzpatrick. The matchup against Miami should not bring any of these problems to fruition. Miami has the worst pass defense in the league and gets virtually no pressure on the QB. Freed Jackson should have a nice game. In a reactionary league, this line shows just how reactionary we truly are. Miami is a bad home team having lost over 80% of their home games in the last two years. They have perhaps the worst QB in the league and somehow are favored against a decent Buffalo team. I don’t get it.

Cincinnati (-7) over Baltimore

Ray Lewis is out for this week. The Red Rifle (that’s right the Fucking Red Rifle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) almost led the Bengals over the Steelers last week. I think the Ravens are not as good as everyone thinks they are. They’ve lost to the Seahawks and the Bengals. The Bengals will pound the rock and keep the game close.

Jacksonville (Pick) over Cleveland

I refuse to address this game as anything more than a joke.

Oakland (-1) over Minnesota

In what equates to essentially a pick ‘em, I like what I’m seeing from the Raiders. They stuck to the game plan beautifully and beat the Chargers without their best player. Carson Palmer is figuring things out and has a real connection with up and coming receiver Denarius Moore. The Vikings were run out of the stadium last week versus the Packers. The Raiders aren’t the Packers in any sense but I don’t see the under-utilized Percy Harvin and the rest of the Vikings weak receiving core to take advantage of the beleaguered Raiders secondary. That same secondary, with only two true corners on the roster, somehow kept the Chargers to 17 points on the road. Adrian Peterson better have a great game if the Vikings want to keep this close.

Carolina (+7) over Detroit

Last week was a fluke. Coverin’ Cam covers. Period. 7 points seems like the perfect back door cover for the Panthers. Their porous defense should give the Lions plenty of opportunities to get ahead. Detroit’s weak secondary and the legs of Coverin’ Cam should allow the Panthers pull this close in the fourth quarter. Detroit could be up two touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Coverin’ Cam scoring against a prevent defense with just a few minutes left, worst case scenario, would have the Panthers within 7. That means were pushing or winning and both of those, when you betting, are wins.

Tampa Bay (+14) over Green Bay

Statistically you always take two touchdowns. I could see Green Bay overlooking the lowly Bucs and allowing them to stick around as late as the 3^rd quarter. Tampa Bay’s weakness is its run defense. Green Bay will air it out like it always does but damn 14 points is a lot.

Dallas (-7) over Washington D.C.

Every time I lend them a little faith the Cowboys bite me in the ass. As you can see, apparently I haven’t learned.

Arizona (+9.5) over San Francisco

The Cardinals have not been playing as bad as you might think considering they’re starting John Skeleton and have a horrible defense. The Niners are everyone’s darling, but they can’t show up every week and the Cards have covered the last three weeks ATS and have actually won their last two, one of them all the way across the country. Staying on the west coast should help with the travel fatigue.

St. Louis (-3) over Seattle

Chicago (-3.5) over San Diego

Bold Prediction #7: Chicago will play in the NFC title game.

NYG (-4) over Philadelphia

Get this bet while you still can. Mike Vick was just announced as most likely out this week. Jeremy Macklin, due to a plethora of injuries, is out as well. I know, I know, relying on Eli at home, when he’s favored, is a risky as hell proposition. But the Eagles are in disarray and the Giants are one of the most solid teams in the league. They are top ten in total defense and total offense. I like Eli to have a good game this week.

Kansas City (+15) over New England

Always take 2+ touchdowns. I know it’s hard with Tyler Palko starting as a QB. Yes, he’s actually starting a primetime game. Needless to say, I don’t think this is what ESPN had in mind when they scheduled this game. The Chiefs backfield of Palko and Battle, not exactly comparable to the return of Matt Cassel to Foxsboro and the dynamic Jamall Charles running all over the place.

*These last three games are great and interesting matchups to watch just not as interesting for wagering.

Picks to place money on: (All money wagers are $55 to win $50 unless otherwise noted)

*Just to clarify based on some questions that I have been asked:

-Wagering= Games I am telling you to put money onto/am betting myself.

-Near bets= Games that I was close to betting.

-Kryptonite= Games I am terrified of and you could not force me to gamble on.

Wagering: Cincinnati, Oakland and Carolina.

Near bets: Chicago.

Kryptonite: St. Louis, Tampa Bay.

The Weekly Gambling Debacle

NFL: 43-40-0 NCAA: 2-7-0 Last week: 6-7-0 Season total: 45-47-0

$ Wagered: 1625 $ Won: 675.5 $ Lost: -970.5 $Net: -294.5

A great weekend for football; LSU vs. Alabama, a whole truckload of NFL matchups that we are super excited to see at the 3Trifecta. In honor of this great weekend of football I am going to keep this article short and sweet. We both don’t need fillers when we have such a great weekend of football. In honor of this great weekend and the fact that I love this week’s lines, Bold prediction #6: This will be my best week of picking of the season. I love the lines this week and am looking to make a killing so here we go:

NFL (Lines as of Friday, November 4, 2011 per Las Vegas Hilton. Home Team in bold).

Atlanta (-7) over Indianapolis

The colts haven’t kept a game close against a good team and despite what the media says Atlanta is still a good team.

Tampa Bay (+8) over New Orleans

I am not sure how I’m doing it but I’m picking against the Saints. They are going to win still, but Tampa Bay is a good road team and should keep this one close against a division rival.

Houston (10.5) over Cleveland

The Browns are bad; Houston is on a roll and is getting Andre Johnson this week. The game kinda scares me as I can see it being a let-down after a couple of satisfying wins for the Texans.

Buffalo (-2) over NY Jets

NY teams tend to get a little too much money thrown their way and this is keeping this line surprisingly low. Buffalo is coming off shutting out Washington. The Jets have been terrible against good teams on the road (0-3) this year and should have lost to both the Chargers and Cowboys at home if their respective quarterbacks had not committed inexcusable and untimely turnovers in the 4^th quarter.

Miami (+4) over Kansas City

KC comes off a big comeback win on Monday night, and plays a team that has covered the last 20 of 26 on the road ATS. Might be a let-down game for KC. Miami gets Daniel Thomas back and could be an upset winner in Arrowhead.

San Francisco (-3) over Washington D.C.

Am I missing something or isn’t San Fran a better team than Buffalo? Buffalo’s weak defense just shut out a hapless Redskins team that would be struggling if it was not injury plagued. The fact that they are only adds to this team’s problems.

Seattle (+11.5) over Dallas

Somehow Tavaris Jackson is playing surprisingly well in a no huddle offense. I know that isn’t saying much, but it should be just enough (that and Seattle’s surprisingly good defense) to keep this game in single digits.

Oakland (-7) over Denver

I’ll take Palmer and the Raiders’ run offense over a Tebow led offense.

Cincinnati (-3) over Tennessee

Take Cincy to win outright. They have a good D and the Titans lack explosive playmakers on offense. Benson is back and Dalton should continue to put up solid numbers with his full arsenal of weapons back and playing.

St. Louis (+2.5) over Arizona

NY Giants (+9) over New England

The Patriots are big favorites over a 5-2 team. Why is this? Bradshaw and Nicks are looking doubtful to play for the Giants, giving the Pats a definite edge. But the Giants have Eli playing good this season, a great pass rush and a former starter back up in Brandon Jacobs, ready and willing to step in and pound the rock for the men in blue. I see them keeping it close in Foxsboro.

San Diego (+5.5) over Green Bay

Pittsburgh (+3) over Baltimore

Chicago (+7.5) over Philadelphia

*These last three games are great and interesting matchups to watch just not as interesting for wagering.

Picks to place money on: (All money wagers are $55 to win $50 unless otherwise noted)

*Just to clarify based on some questions that I have been asked:

-Wagering= Games I am telling you to put money onto/am betting myself.

-Near bets= Games that I was close to betting.

-Kryptonite= Games I am terrified of and you could not force me to gamble on.

Wagering: Buffalo, Miami, San Francisco and Cincinnati on the moneyline ($50 to win $75).

Near bets: Pittsburgh.

Kryptonite: NY Giants, St. Louis

The Weekly Gambling Debacle

NFL: 37-33-0 NCAA: 2-7-0 Last week: 6-9-0 Season total: 39-39-0

$ Wagered: 1410 $ Won: 575.5 $ Lost: -855 $Net: -279.5

A shitty shitty week. Notre Dame’s terrible loss. The Raiders getting smashed. My picks going down the drain. I prefer to never speak of this past weekend again. My NCAA picks were 0-2, NFL 6-9; otherwise stated… horrendous. I have decided to no linger pick NCAA games until bowl season rolls around. Still over .500 for the season in the NFL and I hope we can continue to make that percentage increases weekly. So here we go:

NFL (Lines as of Friday, October 28, 2011 per Las Vegas Hilton. Home Team in bold).

Indianapolis (+8.5) over Tennessee

I like the colts. Yes I know they were just bum rushed by the Saints on Monday night but Tennessee has lost a little luster after a good start. The movement of the line from +6.5 to +8.5 helps me with the selection.

Houston (-9.5) over Jacksonville

The Jags hardly ever cover on the road. Houston is clicking a little bit more and Jacksonville still starts a rookie QB. Hard to pick a rookie QB on the road against a good team to keep it close.

Carolina (-3.5) over Minnesota

Coverin’ Cam is back in action. Ponder looked good last week in his debut. The Packers D isn’t as good as people think so don’t get too enthused by his numbers. I love love love Coverin’ Cam and see the Panthers, in a shoot out, cover 3.5.

New Orleans (-13.5) over St. Louis

I refuse to bet against the Saints.

Baltimore (-12.5) over Arizona

A very, very angry Baltimore team should be showing up on Sunday. Coupling that with the lack luster play of Kevin Kolb has demonstrated so far this season and the fact that this is a west coast team playing at 1pm on the east coast situation; I like the Ravens big. Very big.

NY Giants (-10) over Miami

All this in fighting and the suck for luck campaign makes this a lock that even the Giants can’t somehow lose at home.

Buffalo (-6) over Washington D.C.

Chris Cooley and Tim Hightower are out. The Redskins’ starting left tackle is injured. Santana Moss’ hand is broken and John Beck is starting. What does all this tell you? Washington might not score a single point despite playing a bad Buffalo defense.

Detroit (-3) over Denver

The Tebow era started with a bang. But one thing that he cannot do is throw the ball down field. His limitations will limit his teams’ ability to exploit Detroit’s weak secondary. Teams from will force Tebow to throw the ball and Detroit’s surprisingly inefficient-against-the-run-defense uses this game to get right. This is a classic overreaction line with the two loses by Detroit and comeback win weighing disproportionately on the line. Detroit should get at least 3 more points. I love taking lines where the points are missing in my favor.

Pittsburgh (+3) over New England

Possible playoff preview and the first time in forever that Pittsburgh is not favored at home. Mike Tomlin teams play amazing in big games (minus the season opener). If they get after Brady, which they will and force a few turnovers, I like their chances.

San Francisco (-8.5) over Cleveland

Cincinnati (-3) over Seattle

Seattle comes back home after only scoring 3 points against the Cleveland Browns. The Cleveland Browns. I know Seattle has the greatest statistical advantage at home in the league, but not enough to keep this game close. Cincy wears down the Sea chickens on both sides of the ball and pulls away in the second half.

Dallas (+3.5) over Philadelphia

I have loved Dallas in every game this season and will continue to do so this week. I know it depends on which Philly team shows up. Both neither half of their Jekyll and Hide routine can stop the run. And last week miraculous performance on the ground by Demarco Murray should have Cowboy fans licking their lips. Philly could possibly win, but if they do win it won’t be by much. I actually like Dallas outright here.

Kansas City (+3.5) over San Diego

San Diego is making a lot of people nervous with their performance this year. They should be at 5-2 and in control of their division. Instead they have to worry about both the Raiders and Chiefs nipping at their heels. Norv Turner teams have not fared well against the spread on the road and are especially bad in big games. Take the home team getting 3.5.

Picks to place money on: (All money wagers are $55 to win $50 unless otherwise noted)

*Just to clarify based on some questions that I have been asked:

-Wagering= Games I am telling you to put money onto/am betting myself.

-Near bets= Games that I was close to betting.

-Kryptonite= Games I am terrified of and you could not force me to gamble on.

Wagering: Detroit, Buffalo, Baltimore and the Cowboys on the moneyline ($50 to win $75).

Near bets: San Francisco.

Kryptonite: NY Giants, Tennessee.

The Rivalry Article (USC vs. Notre Dame)

“Why I Love USC and Hate Notre Dame”

By, Sonny Hassan

“Why I Hate USC and Love Notre Dame”

By, Kyle McCann

(A two-part article between bitter rivals)

Why I Love USC:

- Tommy Trojan; what embodies the collegiate atmosphere better than our beloved Tommy Trojan?

- East coast tradition, only on the west coast. Can you name a better west coast college campus?

- Song Girls, also known as our cheerleaders. Classy, sweaters, sexy.

- Hardware; 11 National titles, 7 Heisman Trophies. I know you’re thinking about the Heisman Trophy Reggie Bush had to vacate, but come on, it counts.

- Walking through campus on game day. Nothing beats marching through campus, banging the lightposts, walking through the rose garden, en masse, and finally meeting at the L.A. Colisseum. If you’ve never experienced it, do it, trust me. You get to drink!

- School colors are the best in the nation; CARDINAL AND GOLD, BABY!

- Our football program churns out pros. We’ve turned out the most players in the NFL, 472, more than any other college. We’ve also turned out the most 1st round picks in the NFL, 74. Results, baby.

- Our fight song. The most recognizable song in college sports.

- Our band. The USC band is the most famous band in college sports. We’ve been in movies, played concerts with famous bands (Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones), and we also are the face of creativity and fun.

- Although we aren’t placed academically high as other universities, we develop recognizable alumni that succeed in the real world, unlike other universities who don’t.

- Will Ferrel, George Lucas, Neil Armstrong, Judd Appatow, Ron Howard...The list goes on and on.

- Football alumni; OJ Simpson, Reggie Bush, Marcus Allen, Troy Polamalu, Anthony Munoz, Clay Matthews, Carson Palmer, Lynn Swan, Junior Seau...The list goes on and on.

- The best rivalries in college football, we actually play real conference opponents with real Division 1 talent. UCLA, Notre Dame, Arizona State, Stanford. All great rivalries.

- Troy Polamalu’s hair

- John Wayne

- We consistently get top ranked recruits from all over the nation. Yes, we can go to Texas and take a 5-star recruit away from U of Texas.

- The chills that go up my back when I hear the start of our fight song on game day.

- 11 Pro Football Hall of Famers

- We have so much talent in the NFL that we can actually comprise an All-USC team with current NFL starters and not only make a team, but a team that can compete for a Super Bowl.

- 3 Quarterbacks currently starting in the NFL, more than any other school.

- We’re so good, our back-ups start in the NFL...ahem Matt Cassel ahem...

Most of all, I love USC because ever since I can remember, it has brought tradition and joy to our family. I remember being young and woken up by uncle (USC alumni), and dressing up for home games with my brothers. He made it a tradition to take us to at least one home game, and one away game every year. Sometimes we would go to Tommy’s Burger (an LA icon), then go straight to the Coliseum.  Sometimes we would drive to San Francisco to see USC play Cal; we’d head to Fisherman’s Wharf and go to traditional spots that USC fans and alumni would meet at to take over for the game weekend.

USC is more than a university, its a way of life. It is embodied in our Trojans Network, a network that is worldwide and always caring for one another. No other university can ever compete with the way we take care of our own.

Why I HATE Notre Dame

- Irrelevance. Notre Dame hasn’t been relevant in any college sport in years. It’s about time they get off their high horse and do something about it.

- Notre Dame hasn’t won a national title since 1988. 23 YEARS AGO!!!

- Touchdown Jesus. For those of you who don’t know, Notre Dame fans/alumni have the audacity to think that Jesus came down, put all of the hate/hurt in the world aside, and decided to throw up a touchdown sign for Notre Dame football. If that’s not elitist, what is???

- Stupid, ugly, vomit like Green jerseys. Every time Notre Dame wears those against USC, we DISMANTLE them.

- False numbers. Yes, Notre Dame has numbers that are comparable to other great football universities, but the thing is, many of these numbers come from before you were born! Half of their championships, Heisman winners, and football greats were playing prior to The Beatles!!!

- The dumbest fight song in college football. Its a mix of a church hymn and a child sing-a-long.

- Condoleeza Rice

- Lou Holtz

- Lou Holtz’s heavy lisp

- That stupid fighting leprechaun.

- The worst football turf in the history of college football. No football turf has injured more opponents than that nasty green grass at South Bend.

- Did you know you can’t take a plane directly into South Bend? You have to fly into Chicago, then take a train there. Talk about being stuck in the past.

- The fact that they think they still have an actual rivalry with USC. Yea, they won last year because of a wide open dropped pass. But before that our record against them was heavily one-sided.

My Predictions for this weekend:

Although Notre Dame does have better coaching, they do not compare with us talent wise on the gridiron. I predict a heavy dose of Matt Barkley, Robert Woods, and a steady running game to take a close win from Notre Dame. Barring crazy play calling from Lane Kiffen, we will win. 28-20, USC. FIGHT ON!!!

Kyle McCann

”Why I Hate USC and Love Notre Dame”

Why I Love Notre Dame-

-The golden dome; it glimmers, it’s golden, it’s beautiful.

-11 National championships, 7 Heisman trophies… hardware son.

-The fact that we actually value education and graduating our players; Notre Dame is in the top 3 for graduation rates every year (usually only beaten out by the service academies). This often gets lost in the shuffle of all the standard college football talking points (W/L, conference realignment, coaching changes, players giving back the Heisman trophy because they took illegal benefits for their entire career1, you know the everyday stuff), but it is actually one of the reasons I love Notre Dame so much. Not only are we a legit football team, but we are a legit establishment both on and off the football field.

-“Play a Champion today” sign and video of our team slapping it as they head out to the field.

- Joe Montana.

- Our independent status. Notre Dame does not belong to a conference; by choice. We have remained independent in football and this has allowed us to play a traditional schedule every year. - We don’t play any random cupcake teams that we don’t traditionally play.

- We don’t play the bottom teams of the WAC or Mountain West or SWAC or NCAA FBS teams.

- We don’t play teams that are half way across the country that we have no traditional ties to and are nothing outside of a cupcake-gimme win (teams like San Jose state, Minnesota, Virginia and Idaho, all teams SC has played in the last 4 years).

- The fact that our fan base demands winning. We hire big name, successful coaches because we are always looking for success. Nothing else is acceptable.

- Our Catholic tradition. As a cradle Catholic, I love the fact that Notre Dame embraces its.

- The Four Horsemen.

- I love the fact that we do not redshirt ANYONE.

-We have standards, want to create great human beings and don’t short cut this in order to try and be a better football team. That is why we do not accept junior college transfers. They usually do not have high academic standards or carry baggage not needed at Notre Dame.

-We travel. Our followers and fans travel all over the country in order to watch Notre Dame play. People are mad when we play in BCS bowls that we barely qualify. You want to know why that happens? Because we travel and fill up stadiums all across the country. Maybe your team should try and do this.

-Tim Brown.

- The fact that we still play the service academies; in case you haven’t noticed tradition matters.   

- Our distinct, classic and one-of-a-kind jerseys. They are simply beautifully.

- Lou Holtz.

- 49 College Football Hall of Fame inductees.

- Playing the Alma Mater, “Notre Dame, Our Mother”, after every home game. Win or loss.

- The Leprechaun! No one can claim a better mascot than a living, breathing, shortly-statured Irish man.

- Knute Rockne, one of the best college football coaches of all time.

- 10 NFL HOF inductees.

- The green jerseys that we only break out for special occasions. Having those in you back pocket is simply amazing. It is insane what jerseys can do for you (just look at Oregon).

- Our amazing fight song, known nationwide the minute you hear it.

-The classiness that our players, university and coaching staff conducts themselves with.

- The fact that we can go recruit anywhere and everywhere, with just the University of Notre Dame as a backdrop, and appeal to individuals across the nation.

-The beautiful campus and how it gleams on national TV.

- T-O-U-C-H-D-O-W-N-J-E-S-U-S. ‘nuff said.

Most of all I love the synergistic effect that all these factors have in creating an amazing university to play watch and consume college football. We have great tradition, great fans and though we are hated by many, we are one of the greatest teams in the history of the sports.

We have been up and down for the past decade and never able to push over that final hurdle to a national championship. But our recruiting classes have finally been pulling in the freak athletes necessary to win in today’s game, our coaching is on the highest level that it has been since the Lou Holtz era and we will be back in the National Championship game before USC is and that’s a guarantee that gleams as bright as our golden domes.

Why I Hate USC:

I must qualify this section by first stating that: 1. I reside in Southern California and 2. My Grandpa is USC alumni. This makes both my grandpa, mom and uncle big SC fans. I also had a friend of mine, Drean Rucker who was rewarded a full ride scholarship to play linebacker before his untimely passing prior to the start of his freshman year. I say all this to say that I have respect for the University of Southern California. I have been to more SC games than Notre Dame games (due to obvious geographic restrictions) and I respect the school… but that doesn’t mean I can’t hate them. With all that said, Why I hate USC:

- The arrogance.

-The spoiled rich children who overwhelmingly (my Grandfather excluded) make up their alumni.

- The fact that the Coliseum is in one of the worse parts of L.A.

-The fact that way too many kids who claim to be SC fans have only liked them since 2003.

- Tommy Trojan, the guy is just a douche.

- The fact that the majority of their fan base cannot name one of their Heisman trophy winners outside of Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush.

- The fact that their cheerleaders wear those ridiculous sweaters in an attempt to appear classy.

-Their cheerleaders’ sweater (point cannot be emphasized enough). Cheerleaders do not, by definition, wear sweaters at a football game. This is sacrilegious.   

- That there band wears sunglasses and is always randomly popping up on some stupid YouTube video.

-The “Bush Push”.

- There recent string of pro QB busts (Matt Leinart, Matt Cassel, John David Booty, Marc Sanchez).

-  The ridiculous number of people in Southern California who claim to be SC “fans”. They wear brand new, like tags still on the jersey, new gear. They rooted for Pete Carroll’s teams starting in his second year. You know they year they went 11-2 and starting playing up the laid back, Hollywoodness of playing for USC. All the sudden I started seeing SC flags, Carson Palmer jerseys and people from Fresno to San Diego, from Los Angeles to Palm Springs claiming to be die hard USC “fans”. Where we these people when Paul Hackett was coaching? They were probably off rooting for a successful UCLA team. I strongly dislike Michigan, Michigan State and Navy. These are our other primary rivalries. I want to beat these teams every time we play. But I want to end USC’s season every time we play. I want a huge resounding victory that crushes any hope fo a decent season. Not because I hate their players more, but because their band wagon fans are THE WORSE. The worse. Period. They try and pretend like they have been fans for their entire life. However, right now, with USC’s struggles and the Reggie Bush scandal fallout, I would say their fan base that has lost 80% of its following. This did not, I repeat did not, happen to Notre Dame’s nationwide fan base, during the early to mid 2000’s when Notre Dame was having its worse stretch in decades.

- Because their fans they refuse to admit that Notre Dame consistently has a more difficult strength of schedule than USC does.

- Because their fans continually act like (prior to this season) that the Pac-10 (now Pac-12) was a top two conference when they consistently lost to the SEC, Big 12 and Big 10.

Those are the main reasons why I cannot stand USC. Much like my love for Notre Dame, my hate for SC is culmination of things. It’s the arrogance of fans that are overwhelmingly band wagoners that drives my passion in this rivalry. I love the Irish and can’t stand SC. Let’s go this weekend Irish and beat SC! Go Irish!!

My Predictions for this Weekend:

I still remember November 27 2010. The pass went up into the cool, drizzly Los Angeles sky. It was heading right to Ronald Johnson who, for lack of a better term, was freaking wide open. Not like he had a few steps on a corner. No. It was more like Notre Dame forgot he played for the Trojans or they didn’t have enough guys on the field open. That kind of open. But then something amazing happens. Ronald Johnson, USC’s best wideout, forgot to catch the ball. The best about this drop is that it made Notre Dame’s first win against USC in 8 years even sweeter. This drop, while unspeakable for many SC “fans”, isn’t unspeakable to me; I bring it up with SC fans all the time. Those band-wagon jumping, Hollywood loving, academically lacking fans who somehow seem to appear everywhere when SC is top on nowhere when there hovering around .500. I love bringing this drop/game up and in fact that’s why I did it right now. I believe it sets the mood for this weekend’s game, a game I couldn’t be more excited about.

   Let’s compare this year to last year. Notre Dame is now starting a sophomore QB with 11 starts under his belt, instead of 3. Last year Notre Dame was down their starting tight end, a running back and a linebacker, all out with injuries. This year there are no major injuries to report. The run game and O-line are much improved and have dominated most games. Our defense, playing well last year, is even better this year with increased experience at almost every starting position and an influx of athletic youth on the defensive line. Outside of our lack luster special teams (which have consistently been a problem) Notre Dame is improved on all fronts.

There are areas where USC seems to be slightly better than the Irish. QB is one, with Matt Barkley likely being a first round draft pick this year (as compared to Notre Dame’s sophomore, Tommy Rees). Robert Woods is a monster, but Michael Floyd helps balance the talent out for both teams at the wide receiver position. Notre Dame’s special teams have been disappointing and USC has an advantage here. Outside of those two spots, QB and special teams, USC is outmatched across the board.

Injuries and defense are problems for the Trojans as well. Marc Tyler and Marquis Lee are going to try and play with painful separated shoulders. Torin Brown and Anthony Brown, 1st and 2nd string corners for USC are out. They rank 105th in the passing defense when half their first three opponents have horrendous pass offenses (108th, 85th and 71st in the NCAA). They have been shredded by ASU and Arizona they only two good offenses they have played this season. They gave up over 500 yards of offense to a 1-5 Arizona team. On top of this, SC will start at least half a dozen freshmen on a road game in South Bend, for the first night game in 20 years. Yikes.

Needless to say I like Notre Dame’s chances. The matchups from this year to last year increasingly favor the Irish and the fact they we will be matching up against a team littered with individuals lacking in experience only makes me more excited for kickoff Saturday night. Notre Dame currently stands as a 9 point favorite. This seems about right to me.  It might stay close early, but more than likely I see Notre Dame coming out like they did against Michigan and putting up a quick 14 points. USC will do a decent job of keeping it close, but 21-10 at halftime is not an unrealistic lead for the Irish to take. Notre Dame stretches the lead to 3 scores before the end of the third. Despite giving up a late touchdown, Notre Dame, with its experience and superior defense, take the victory 31-17 and look to start an undefeated streak against SC after beating them in the each of the two most recent seasons.