Sports columnist plays Nostradamus
Well, another year is about to pass so how can I pass up the
opportunity to make some sports predictions for 2007 just a few
days ahead of everyone else?
In this business it’s all about out-scooping the competition
anyway, right?
So here goes
…
Sports columnist plays Nostradamus
Well, another year is about to pass so how can I pass up the opportunity to make some sports predictions for 2007 just a few days ahead of everyone else?
In this business it’s all about out-scooping the competition anyway, right?
So here goes…
Let me come out of the gate swinging and say that the Raiders will get the No. 1 draft pick in the NFL. Granted, this is not much of a prediction since they already are tied with Detroit for the worst record in the NFL with just one game left. But somehow, someway, something tells me the Raiders will get the top pick in the NFL draft even if they have to lose to the Lions in a game of rock, paper, scissors to do it.
As mentioned, that’s not much of a prediction, the real prediction is what the Raiders will do with that pick – which is blow it!
Just like last April when it was time to pick in the opening round the Raiders passed on USC quarterback Matt Leinart for defensive back Michael Huff – even though they clearly needed a promising QB more than anything.
Fortunately for Raider fans they are in a position once again to get another top college QB, but instead of taking Louisville’s Brian Brohm or Notre Dame’s Brady Quinn, they’ll opt for someone in the defensive secondary, once again – proving once and for all that Al Davis is senile.
In keeping with the theme, Al won’t fire Art Shell even though it is clear that he should have back in late September. But no, big Al won’t do it. What’s the point? Especially since Al likes living in the past. Shell was a great offensive lineman, remember? Just as Biletnikoff was a great receiver and he’s still there, too. Just look at what Randy Moss and the Raiders receiving core did this year.
However, if Al is able to take his Geritol and is able to get his mind right, and decides to let Shell go, don’t be surprised if he gives Steve Mariucci a call to replace him. Mooch loves the Bay Area and he’d fit right in.
If the Raiders do opt for a QB in the draft in Round 1, look for them to go 7-9 next year since the defense should still be solid, too.
In keeping with the local NFL theme, the 49ers – thanks to being some $40 million under the salary cap – will have the ability to go 11-5 and win the NFC West. The question is whether or not “The Grinch,” Mr. York, will be willing to open up his checkbook. If so, look for the Niners to search for linebackers first and foremost in the upcoming draft and don’t be surprised if T.O. comes back to fill out one of the receiver slots.
No one will want to take a chance on T.O. but Nolan is hard-ass enough to handle him. However, it will be Owens’ last chance at playing in the NFL.
Look at that – I made another prediction without even thinking about it. Dallas will keep Parcells and send T.O. packing.
The Golden State Warriors will make a strong push down the stretch and will make the playoffs before being eliminated in the second round, while the San Antonio Spurs will win it all.
Keeping things short and sweet the Buffalo Sabres will win the Stanley Cup. Sorry, Sharks fans.
Tiger Woods will dominate the PGA Tour again. But at this point any prediction on Tiger Woods shouldn’t even count for a prediction anymore. It’s more like a mere formality.
In moving it local, how about a prediction on Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jeff Garcia?
With his recent play, which has been the key behind the Eagles resurgence as the team to beat in the NFC, Gilroy’s favorite son has resurrected his NFL career as a starter, not a backup, which should make things real interesting when Donovan McNabb heals up.
My prediction is that if Garcia guides Philadelphia to a Super Bowl win, McNabb is out. If not, Garcia will start somewhere else next season since he’ll be the hottest player on the free agent market. What team, you ask? The Miami Dolphins.
Hopefully that’s enough for you to chew on. If not, grab some leftover ham or turkey. Oh yeah, and Happy New Year!
