Too Fat to Graduate

Surfing the web today, I came across a story about a college in Pennsylvania. At Lincoln University in Oxford, PA; students must past a BMI test in order to place out of taking a fitness class. A fitness class that is needed to graduate. It is a strange twist on what most college students expect out of college. They go to take classes and hopefully receive a diploma after anywhere between three and six years. But students at Lincoln University with a body mass index of 30 or more, which equals someone being obese, must take a fitness class that meets three hours weekly. The class is mandatory and necessary for graduation.

The first class to have this as a requirement is nearing their graduation date. As that date approaches, criticism is being expressed. Tiana Lawson, a student, has used an editorial to bring this matter national attention. She expresses the unfairness of the class being only meant for those with a high BMI and not all students. It is a class to highlight who is too fat and who isn't. James DeBoy, chairman of the school's Department of Health and Physical Education, says that the class is just like any other class needed by students. Learning history or math is important to graduate. For DeBoy, someone's health is of the same level of importance and what the class is meant for. Also, if resources were unlimited, he said that the class would be open to more than just those with a high BMI. To eliminate the possibility of more people who test high having to take the class; a waist circumference is measure as muscle mass adds to a high BMI.

Lincoln University is a historically black school. Obesity statistics when referring to African Americans are alarming. Obesity rises the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. African Americans are 1.4 times as likely to be obese as non Hispanic white in studies a couple years ago done by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. According to data, four out of five African American women are overweight or obese.

The biggest thing in this whole equation is the mandatory aspect of the class. People in this class are being forced to work out three hours a week. They should be doing this, but on their own time. This class is ground breaking and could set a precedent for other universities to follow if this becomes successful. There are way too many overweight and obese people, who without someone telling them to work out; they won't do it. I remember in high school we used to have a weekly workout session. Half the students would do the exercises and half would either partially do them or try to avoid doing them all together. Not everyone can be motivated to work out and be healthy so I commend this university for taking the extra step to probably safe many lives and extend them. It might not seem right, but it is necessary in today's society.

College Football Power Rankings- going into Week 14

The big final weekend of the season is finally here. After some curve balls early on, the top teams have held form for most of the second half of the year. Six unbeaten teams remain after 13 weeks. TCU is done for the year and waits their BCS verdict. Florida and Alabama are ready for the rematch that both have eyed all year. The winner is all but assured one of the spots in the title game. Texas if successful over Nebraska can claim that other spot. Both Cincinnati and Boise State are still unbeaten and Cincy is playing for the Big East. Also sandwiched in the ranked matchups this weekend is the ACC title game between Georgia Tech and Clemson and the Oregon-Oregon State battle for the right to go to the Rose Bowl to represent the Pac-10.

Top 25 Power Rankings
1) Florida (12-0) (vs Alabama)(SEC Title Game)
2) Texas (12-0) (vs Nebraska)(Big 12 Title Game)
3) Alabama (12-0) (vs Florida)(SEC Title Game)
4) TCU (12-0) (IDLE)
5) Cincinnati (11-0) (at Pittsburgh)
6) Boise State (12-0) (vs New Mexico State)
7) Ohio State (10-2) (IDLE)
8) Oregon (9-2) (vs Oregon State)
9) Iowa (10-2) (IDLE)
10) Penn State (10-2) (IDLE)
11) Georgia Tech (10-2) (vs Clemson)(ACC Title Game)
12) Pittsburgh (9-2) (vs Cincinnati)
13) Virginia Tech (9-3) (IDLE)
14) LSU (9-3) (IDLE)
15) Brigham Young (10-2) (IDLE)
16) Miami (FL) (9-3) (IDLE)
17) Oregon State (8-3) (at Oregon)
18) Houston (10-2)(at East Carolina)(CUSA Title Game)
19) Nebraska (9-3)(vs Texas)(Big 12 Title Game)
20) USC (8-3) (vs Arizona)
21) Oklahoma State (9-3) (IDLE)
22) California (8-3) (at Washington)
23) West Virginia (8-3)(at Rutgers)
24) Stanford (8-4)(IDLE)
25) Clemson (8-4) (vs Georgia Tech)(ACC Title Game)

Blind Sided

The story of Michael Oher, the Baltimore Ravens' 1st round draft pick this year, is being told to audiences in the new movie "The Blind Side." For those who knew of his story are truly amazed that he is where he is today. And those who are finding out about his remarkable story are also in bewilderment at one he has made of his life.

Not everyone can have that great childhood with parents, love, food, safety, and everything else that comes along the way. He spent much of his early years not being certain what the next day may bring. He at the young age of 23 has probably been through more than many will have to endure in a lifetime. He has been to put those traumatic experiences behind him and has made him stronger. He was one of 13 siblings. He never knew his father, a man whose murder he would not know about until he was in high school. His mother was addicted crack cocaine and thus he lived a very scattered life. He bounced from school to school on a yearly basis and was basically homeless. He was young and didn't know much and took everything in stride.

A turning point came when Tony Henderson took Oher in to sleep on his couch. Oher would then be enrolled at Braircrest Christian School with Henderson's son, Steven. He would be viewed as a special-needs case. Another big moment would occur shortly after when Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy noticed Oher walking on the side of the street near the school. Mrs. Tuohy couldn't just drive away from Michael and the Tuohys brought him home with them. This would be the major turning point in Oher's life at the age of 16. The Tuohys gave him a safety net and security, which he didn't know before. They got a tutor to assist him with his academic struggles, gave him clothes and essentials along with the tuition to attend school. After some time together, the Tuohys made it official and became Michael's legal guardians.

Now, Oher has gone from the depths of despair to an All-American tackle at the University of Mississippi to the NFL and the Baltimore Ravens. He still has the fire that burned in his to survive another day and get to where he is today. Despite all the hardships in his live, he is friendly and has an easygoing demeanor. What he has gone through in 23 years has given him a perspective that many at his age don't have. He can relate to individuals living off the streets because he was once there. He wore the same outfit for days at a time. He never had all the joys that most children have. To Oher, where he is now is living his dream. And to him it is still unbelievable.

Its always refreshing to see someone like Oher, who no matter how successful he might become; he will always remember where he came from. To me, one of the best things someone could be is humble. It keeps an individual grounded and allows them to keep everything in perspective. Oher knows what it is like to have nothing and that is what he will have in his mind the rest of his life. Too many people today make material and superficial things more important in their lives than they should be. Thankfully there are still people like Michael Oher out there, who will be a symbol for others to aspire to. Because one day, you just might be blind sided.

Week 12 NFL Preview

The games of the week last week left a little something to be desired. In the two rematches of big games earlier this year, the loser in each got their revenge. The Chargers went to Denver and dismantled the Broncos and kept them a lone field goal as they took the AFC West lead alone. The Broncos look like a shell of the team that started the year and the Chargers look like one of the best teams as they are riding a 5 game winning streak. In the other big rematch, the Patriots had little trouble this time around in routing the Jets and rebounding nicely after a tough loss to the Colts. The Jets looked like a different time in this game and the Patriots' defense was the dominant defense this time around. The Eagles were able to get back on track while the Bears continued their tough season despite better play out of QB Jay Cutler. It came down to a late fourth quarter drive with the Bears being stopped by the Eagles' defense. Lastly, the Titans and Texans battled in a tough, back and forth game that was decided by a kicker. K Kris Brown of the Texans had another game winning field goal go wide of the goal post and the Texans suffered another tough loss. While the Titans continue to climb out of the 0-6 hole to a 4-6 record.

In other action, the game of the week might have been the Browns at Lions game. Both offenses put on a show highlighted by both starting QBs with the Lions prevailing at the end. The Steelers and Bengals both had let downs against AFC West cellar teams, the Chiefs and the Raiders; respectively. The Giants coming off a bye barely got a win over the Falcons. Both the Saints and the Colts were able to put away another team and both are now 10-0.

All and all, I went 14-2 last week and brings my total to 121-39 after eleven weeks.

Now for Week 12:

Games of the Week:
Thanksgiving: Giants at Broncos: A big matchup on Thanksgiving night featuring two teams that started the year a combined 11-0 and are 1-8 since. They both are starting to lose ground in their respective divisions and a win here is especially important. The loser of this one could have a long December ahead of them. The Giants barely won last week while the Broncos got romped over. Pick: Broncos

Colts at Texans: These had a close one last time they met and this could be a season changing game for the Texans. A win here will help them make a run at the postseason and winning season; both two things they haven't achieved in franchise history. The Colts come in undefeated and still look tough to beat despite a few close calls. Expect a shootout again with a similar result. Pick: Colts

Sunday Night: Steelers at Ravens: This more than just another divisional rivalry game. Both are trailing the Bengals and are jockeying for playoff positions. These two have hard fought battles that are grind out victories. The Steelers swept all three games a year ago on their way to the Super Bowl and I'm sure that is in the back of their heads. This one should be a tough and physical one. Pick: Steelers

Monday Night: Patriots at Saints: The Saints are playing close to perfect football and are still undefeated. The Patriots made a similar run two years ago and show up for big games like this. The Superdome has been a tough place to play for visitors and will be loud for sure. This one will ultimate come down to the two defenses and which QB makes the fewest mistakes. It could turn into a back and forth points battle. Pick: Saints

Rest of the pack:

Thanksgiving: Packers at Lions: The Lions on Thanksgiving haven't really delivered in recent years. Many question if they should still have this traditional game. The Packers are starting to click on offense now and could turn this one into a rout. Pick: Packers

Thanksgiving: Raiders at Cowboys: The Raiders got a nice win last week, but back to back wins might be tough this week. The Cowboys know they can't slip up this week as they know that the division and playoffs are on the line as December looms. Pick: Cowboys

Buccaneers at Falcons: The Falcons are in search of their first back to back winning seasons and a win this week will certainly help. The Bucs are still struggling but could break through a couple times and this week might be one of them. Pick: Falcons

Dolphins at Bills: This one could hinge on how effective the offenses are. If the Dolphins can shut down the Bills' offense it could be a long day for them. Pick: Dolphins

Browns at Bengals: The Bengals know they let one get away last week. I doubt they will make that mistake two weeks in row. Pick: Bengals

Seahawks at Rams: The Rams are struggling to score and stop people. This is a break for an almost as bad Seahawks team. Pick: Seahawks

Panthers at Jets: The Panthers have been showing signs of improvement while the Jets have struggled at times as has QB Mark Sanchez. The Jets know each game is important as they let a Patriots sweep slip away. Pick: Jets

Redskins at Eagles: The Redskins are playing hard and might trip up the Eagles. The Eagles, though, have enough weapons to outscore whatever effort the Redskins give. Pick: Eagles

Chiefs at Chargers: The Chargers just got done routing the Broncos and it looks like they might be poised to rout the Chiefs this week. A clutch win against the Steelers doesn't hurt the confidence, but the Chargers are rolling. Pick: Chargers

Jaguars at 49ers: These two are good some weeks and average other weeks. Which teams will show up. The 49ers are hungry this year as the Jaguars have fallen off of that nice plateau they used to be on. Pick: 49ers

Cardinals at Titans: Its a rematch of QBs from the 2006 Rose Bowl. QB Matt Leinart has not played especially well in the NFL while QB Vince Young has taken the Titans to 4-0 after falling to 0-6. Expect a possible classic again. With the same winning QB. Pick: Titans

Bears at Vikings: The Vikings continue to show how good they are each week and are a slight step behind the Saints and the Colts. With that in mind, they keep rolling against a struggling Bears team. Pick: Vikings

There are some great games this week, but the Patriots-Saints game will certainly bring excitement.

End of World War II: The Alternative Ending

As someone who has studied history with vigor and excitement for much of my young adult life, I always enjoy reading articles and books on various individuals, topics, and events. Today I came across one that caught my eye partially due to its title and partially due to the topic matter. It was titled, "How World War II Wasn't Won" by David Colley. As most who have studied history or are cursory followers of it know that next year will be the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II. So, obviously this article would draw some attention on my part. It also adds to a side interest of mine with history: alternative endings or results. The "what ifs" idea. This article certainly is that. Enjoy a interesting look at a defining moment in our history.


http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/23/opinion/23colley.html?em


Sixty-five years ago, in November 1944, the war in Europe was at a stalemate. A resurgent Wehrmacht had halted the Allied armies along Germany’s borders after its headlong retreat across northern France following D-Day. From Holland to France, the front was static — yet thousands of Allied soldiers continued to die in futile battles to reach the Rhine River.

One Allied army, however, was still on the move. The Sixth Army Group reached the Rhine at Strasbourg, France, on Nov. 24, and its commander, Lt. Gen. Jacob L. Devers, looked across its muddy waters into Germany. His force, made up of the United States Seventh and French First Armies, 350,000 men, had landed Aug. 15 near Marseille — an invasion largely overlooked by history but regarded at the time as “the second D-Day” — and advanced through southern France to Strasbourg. No other Allied army had yet reached the Rhine, not even hard-charging George Patton’s.

Devers dispatched scouts over the river. “There’s nobody in those pillboxes over there,” a soldier reported. Defenses on the German side of the upper Rhine were unmanned and the enemy was unprepared for a cross-river attack, which could unhinge the Germans’ southern front and possibly lead to the collapse of the entire line from Holland to Switzerland.

The Sixth Army Group had assembled bridging equipment, amphibious trucks and assault boats. Seven crossing sites along the upper Rhine were evaluated and intelligence gathered. The Seventh Army could cross north of Strasbourg at Rastatt, Germany, advance north along the Rhine Valley to Karlsruhe, and swing west to come in behind the German First Army, which was blocking Patton’s Third Army in Lorraine. The enemy would face annihilation, and the Third and Seventh Armies could break loose and drive into Germany. The war might end quickly.

Devers never crossed. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, the supreme commander, visited Devers’s headquarters that day and ordered him instead to stay on the Rhine’s west bank and attack enemy positions in northern Alsace. Devers was stunned. “We had a clean breakthrough,” he wrote in his diary. “By driving hard, I feel that we could have accomplished our mission.” Instead the war of attrition continued, giving the Germans a chance to counterattack three weeks later in what became known as the Battle of the Bulge, which cost 80,000 American dead and wounded.

Garrison Davidson, then Devers’s engineering officer and later a superintendent of West Point, believed Devers’s attack would have succeeded and pre-empted the Bulge, writing, “I have often wondered what might have happened had Ike had the audacity to take a calculated risk, as General Patton would have.” Patton wrote in his diary that he also believed Eisenhower had missed a great opportunity; the Seventh Army’s commander, Lt. Gen. Alexander Patch, felt the same way.

Why did Eisenhower refuse to allow Devers to cross? Eisenhower disliked Devers — a prim teetotaler who rubbed many gruff Army commanders the wrong way — and refused to include him among the generals fighting in northern France. Devers was appointed to lead the southern invasion by the Army chief of staff, George Marshall. Eisenhower would likely have fired Devers once the Sixth Army Group fell under his command in September 1944, but Devers had powerful patrons in Marshall and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Eisenhower was also a cautious, some would say indecisive, commander who favored a “broad front” strategy with all Allied armies moving in tandem on a solid front. His military objective was Germany’s main industrial area to the north, the Ruhr. Devers was operating too far south to help that effort.

True, the Germans knew the Ruhr was vital to them and fiercely defended it. But, as we know from several of their generals’ postwar memoirs, what they really feared was an incursion across the Rhine, which would have been a military catastrophe and a devastating symbolic blow to the German people.

The Rhine wasn’t crossed until March 1945. Had Eisenhower let Devers make his attack, we might now be celebrating the 65th anniversary of a cross-Rhine attack that quickly ended the war in Europe. Instead, we will soon mark the anniversary of the costliest battle in American history, the Battle of the Bulge.

Week 13 College Football Preview

We are winding nearer to the end of the season and the contenders are starting to separate as the conference title games could decide a lot.

Recap of last week: On Wednesday night, both Buffalo and Central Michigan had little trouble blowing out Miami (OH) and Ball State, respectively, on the road. Oklahoma State were down early, but rallied in the fourth quarter to keep themselves in the Big 12 hunt and also the BCS hunt. Great play by a back up in this one for Oklahoma State. Bowling Green continued their fairly strong season with a win over Akron. While Toledo and Boise State routed Eastern Michigan and Utah State, respectively. Boise State remains unbeaten and on course for a BCS game. Both Alabama and Florida survived another week with comfortable wins. Texas kept their national title game and Big 12 title game hopes alive with a very nice win over a Kansas team on the decline. TCU continued their dominance this year with another win. Clemson got by Virginia and now has a great chance to be in a BCS bowl as they have gotten themselves in the ACC title game. HB C.J. Spiller for Clemson has been one of the best all around talents this year. Utah bounced back nicely with a convincing win.

In terms of my top 5 matchups picks, I went 4-1 this past week and after twelve weeks I'm 44-16 on the year. North Carolina manhandled Boston College in what should have been a much more competitive ACC conference game. The Tar Heels jumped out to a 21-0 and never looked back from there and capped on a few more points in the 4th quarter to seal the win and knock Boston College out of playing for the ACC title. North Carolina has looked very impressive under Butch Davis for the most part this year. They might not be too far off from being a complete and dangerous team. Nebraska sealed their Big 12 North title with a convincing defensive effort over Kansas State. If they play that good in the title game, they could be headed to a big game this year and complete most of their return to greatness. Oregon and Arizona fought back and forth in going to two overtimes. Oregon tied the game in the waning seconds and then delivered a touchdown in the second overtime to lift themselves over the Wildcats and now control their Rose Bowl destiny. This team has truly turned it around from the low they were at to the start the season with the opening loss and the disruptions that followed.

The reason for Oregon controlling its destiny is largely due to California downing Stanford. Stanford battled back close to tying it, but would fall short in a close battle in the Pac-10. California had big hopes to start the season and have shown glimpses of that including this big win. And what usually is a big game, Ohio State continued their dominance over a weaker Michigan squad. QB Tate Forcier of Michigan turned the ball over a bunch of times and that only aided the Buckeyes as they slowly dissected the Wolverines. Ohio State now plans for a Rose Bowl appearance, where they look to have a better game than some of their past BCS games.

Now turning to this week's slate of games that might be worth watching/feature a team or teams with something on the line:

Tuesday Night: Ball State at Western Michigan: Not much excitement here. A little warm up I guess before the Thanksgiving weekend.

Thursday Night (Thanksgiving): Texas at Texas A&M: This game has been no gimme for Texas as they head down their stretch. Expect Texas A&M to give the Longhorns a good fight and make it a little interesting. A good end to a Thanksgiving day of football.

Friday: Rutgers at Louisville: The game that us one of the biggest shockers of the last few years has now become just another game. Rutgers should have little trouble, but Louisville could keep it close in the first half.

Temple at Ohio: This one is for a spot in the MAC title game. Both have been surprises this year. Who takes their season an extra further?

Illinois at Cincinnati: Cincinnati has a nice out of conference matchup to get themselves ready for a big time Big East battle with Pittsburgh next week.

Northern Illinois at Central Michigan: Central Michigan has a potent offensive and their QB is worth watching.

Toledo at Bowling Green: Bowling Green is having a nice season and this might be a back and forth battle.

Nebraska at Colorado: These two teams have had some classic battles, but not too sure if they will deliver completely. Nebraska has a game changing defense led by DT Ndamukong Suh.

Nevada at Boise State: Its all about Boise State and staying unbeaten.

Saturday: 18 Clemson at South Carolina: This one has the potential to be a back and forth battle with South Carolina pride. Expect some big plays and a lot points.

Florida State at Florida: This one of coach Bobby Bowden's last games possibly hopefully he can keep it close. Florida is prepping for a big show down with Alabama.

17 Miami (FL) at South Florida: South Florida is looking to gain some respect in Florida. A win over a resurgent Miami (FL) would do that.

Arkansas at 15 LSU: This one has SEC and OT written all over it for some reason. This one might be closer than some might expect.

Georgia at 7 Georgia Tech: Georgia Tech has been explosive on offense and needs to avoid overlooking a dangerous Georgia team.

UCLA at 20 USC: The battle for LA has a little bit less steam this year, but because USC has struggled makes this one a little more interesting.

Now my top 5 matchups for Week 13:

5) Notre Dame at Stanford: This one is big for both. Stanford suffered a setback last week, yet can still find themselves in the Rose Bowl. Notre Dame started well, but as slowly faltered and knows that every loss is one too many for coach Charlie Weis. Expect HB Toby Geirhart to be the x-factor. Pick: Stanford

4) 2 Alabama at Auburn: The Iron Bowl. For that reason, this one will be close despite Alabama being the better team. Expect a physical one decided late. Pick: Alabama

3) Friday: 9 Pittsburgh at West Virginia: The backyard brawl has a lot on the line. Pittsburgh is fighting for the Big East while West Virginia is just about out of the picture. A couple years ago Pittsburgh knocked off West Virginia and ended their possible national title dreams. West Virginia will look to do the same to Pittsburgh. Pick: Pittsburgh

2) 21 Utah at 19 BYU: This is another big time battle between two schools outside of the big conferences. A lot of offense and some big play might ensue in this one. Pick: Utah

1) 12 Oklahoma State at Oklahoma: Bedlam in Oklahoma. Oklahoma has struggled without their stars, but will bring a lot to this one because its for bragging rights. Oklahoma State has been in close ones and survived. Expect another close one for them. Pick: Oklahoma

We are on the cusp of the end of the season and several teams have a lot on the line.

Week 12 NFL Power Rankings

Going into Week 12, there is one matchup that highlights the schedule: Patriots at Saints. The Saints are undefeated and look to be back in a groove. While these are the games that the Patriots usually show up to play for. The Colts are still unbeaten and the Vikings look very good with only one loss.

2009 Power Rankings (going into Week 12):
1.(1) Saints (10-0): This game against the Patriots this week will go a long way to show if this is a different team than the ones we have seen in the past.
2.(2) Colts (10-0): The Colts continue to find ways to win and now get a team they have dominated, the Texans
3.(3) Vikings (9-1): This team is rolling and could put some more distance between the rest of their division this week.
4.(6) Patriots (7-3): They got revenge against the Jets and now their focus turns to stopping the undefeated Saints in New Orleans.
5.(7) Chargers (7-3): They are starting to hit a groove after a shaky start and could make a run.
6.(8) Cardinals (7-3): They seem to be in position to follow last year's winning season and division title with the same.
7.(4) Bengals (7-3): They were silencing critics until fumbling away a game against the Raiders.
8.(5) Steelers (6-4): They struggled to close out another winnable game.
9.(10) Cowboys (7-3): They struggled against Washington, but get a fairly easy game on Thanksgiving on short rest.
10.(11) Eagles (6-4): This team is tough to figure out and got a couple gifts from the Bears.
11.(16) Giants (6-4): They are finally back in the win column...but barely.
12.(9) Broncos (6-4): They might have just lost the division with that horrible loss to San Diego.
13.(14) Packers (6-4): Aaron Rodgers got the better of Alex Smith in a faceoff of 2005 first rounders.
14.(17) Jaguars (6-4): They got another win, but they don't do it very pretty.
15.(12) Ravens (5-5): They gave the Colts a good game, but fell short and now they find themselves somewhere in the middle of the league after their strong start.
16.(15) Falcons (5-5): Injuries and a couple tough breaks are starting to hamper this team's attempt at back-to-back winning seasons.
17.(18) Dolphins (5-5): After an 0-3 start, they are at .500 and have a shot at the postseason.
18.(13) Texans (5-5): They are starting to look like past teams: one who watches the postseason at home.
19.(21) Titans (4-6): Watch out league. Here come the Titans; winners of 4 straight.
20.(20) Panthers (4-6): They had a chance to get to .500 and failed and are stumbling along.
21.(19) 49ers (4-6): This team shows signs of promise and is vastly improving despite a loss.
22.(22) Jets (4-6): Another tough loss for the Jets and this team is not what we thought they were.
23.(23) Bears (4-6): Jay Cutler continues to struggle and the fortunes of the Bears go as he goes.
24.(24) Redskins (3-7): They are showing that they are better than earlier this year, but couldn't get the win again.
25.(25) Seahawks (3-7): They are a shell of the team they used to be and got run over by the Vikings.
26.(27) Chiefs (3-7): A nice win over the defending champs.
27.(26) Bills (3-7): They might be able to turn their offense around after all.
28.(28) Raiders (3-7): A lucky break and another win on the season.
29.(31) Lions (2-8): They gave up 37 points, but scored 38 in a classic shootout.
30.(29) Rams (1-9): Another loss on a long season.
31.(30) Buccaneers (1-9): Not much to celebrate these days in Tampa.
32.(32) Browns (1-9): I guess they can at least take away the fact that their offense looked really good despite another loss.

Another exciting week awaits the schedule inches towards December.

College Football Power Rankings- going into Week 13

The season is nearing the finish line and some teams seasons have finished and they await their bowl verdicts. Others have big rivalries game this week that could shift the BCS and bowl picture. Will we see all six unbeatens survive another weekend? How will Florida and Alabama look a week before they collide in Atlanta. Things could easily get interesting this weekend.

Top 25 Power Rankings
1) Florida (11-0) (vs Florida State)
2) Texas (11-0) (at Texas A&M)
3) Alabama (11-0) (at Auburn)
4) TCU (11-0) (vs New Mexico)
5) Cincinnati (10-0) (vs Illinois)
6) Boise State (11-0) (vs Nevada)
7) Georgia Tech (10-1) (vs Georgia)
8) Pittsburgh (9-1) (at West Virginia)
9) Ohio State (10-2) (IDLE)
10) Oregon (9-2) (IDLE)
11) Oklahoma State (9-2) (at Oklahoma)
12) Iowa (10-2) (IDLE)
13) Penn State (10-2) (IDLE)
14) Virginia Tech (8-3) (at Virginia)
15) Clemson (8-3) (at South Carolina)
16) LSU (8-3) (vs Arkansas)
17) Brigham Young (9-2) (vs Utah)
18) Oregon State (8-3) (IDLE)
19) Miami (FL) (8-3) (at South Florida)
20) California (8-3) (IDLE)
21) Mississippi (8-3) (at Mississippi State)
22) Utah (9-2) (at BYU)
23) USC (7-3) (vs UCLA)
24) North Carolina (8-3) (at North Carolina State)
25) Houston (9-2) (vs Rice)

This season has not turned out as expected, but the top teams have given us quite a show and the ending of the season should play out quite intriguingly.

What Side Are You On?

Throughout history, there are those whose positions have ultimately been on right side and those who have on the wrong side. I put this in the context of if someone argue for or against something that was later view as the better position or a backwards position. An article I came across highlights that exact argument: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/19/opinion/19kristof.html?_r=1

These right/wrong side arguments usually circulate around major issues like slavery, voting rights, or fighting a war. The latest incarnation of this right side/wrong side argument involves the health care debate. There are critics of reform seeing this whole thing as a delusion and the beginning of socialized medicine. There is talks of "deteriorating service" and invasion of privacy in the ER and patients will lose the ability to choose their own doctor. All worth arguing...if true. These arguments are like recycled paper; reused. Put aside and used again forty years after the last time they were needed. The battle for Medicare in the 1960s is very similar to the battle for this health care reform bill. And the critics in the 1960s are back/the next generation of critics is using them. The ironic part of this is those who opposed Medicare use the argument that this bill will hurt Medicare. Seems a little two-faced to me. How can you argue against something in the 1960s then turn around and argue against this current legislation to safe what we have...something you once opposed.

But we can go further back than the 1960s to see this empty rhetoric. Before this health care bill and before Medicare in the 1960s; there was Social Security reform in the 1930s. The same individuals who are attacking this bill and who attacked Medicare gave similar types of arguments against Social Security. The critics viewed it as a socialist program; just like the critics viewed Medicare and the health care reform. Social Security was said to only add to the Americans' tax; similarly to what Medicare was supposed and the proposed health care bill. Senator Daniel Hastings, a Delaware Republican, even said that Social Security would "end the progress of a great country." I wonder how America has turned out in the last seventy years? I think we progressed pretty good, Mr. Hastings. These same outlandish arguments continued to be made and continue to be made.

When Presidents Kennedy and Johnson brought up and pushed for a government health program for the elderly, critics called Medicare socialist just like they referred to Social Security as such. Conservatives voiced out that Medicare would be the equivalent of rationing health care. The American Medical Association was so against Medicare that the head of the A.M.A. suggested that the quality of care would decrease and it was evil to go along with the plan. Medicare was viewed as a matter of politics with the nation's health. Also something that might sound familiar; Britain and Europe were brought into the conversation as health care system in ruins. Health care systems that America should avoid becoming more like despite the fact that more people are covered in those countries and generally are healthier. Maybe these critics need to open their eyes to the errors of their predecessors.

The hyperbole of the 1930s carried over to the 1960s and has carried over to today. The arguments against Social Security reemerged to become the arguments against Medicare and now those arguments have reemerged to become the arguments against something close to universal health care. Social Security has seemed to work out pretty well. Medicare has seemed to work out pretty well. The critics of Medicare has turned the corner and see that it does work. Life expectancy has gone up since the 1960s and America has used a system to ensure those who 65 and over are given the necessary care. However, the group on the other end of the age spectrum aren't cared for properly. Hospitalized children who are not insured have greater than a 50 percent chance of dying than those with insurance. The biggest reason is what anyone without health insurance suffers from: a lack of preventive care when someone initially gets sick. So, why is there a plan to cover the elderly, but not the youth? Why do people continue to rally against universal care...for kids? And, for fiscal conservatives, health care for children is cheaper than health care for the elderly.

Social Security in the 1930s wasn't perfect nor has been. Medicare in the 1960s wasn't perfect nor has been. And this current legislation is not perfect nor will it be the perfect bill, but it is better than what exists just like before Social Security and Medicare were enacted. The biggest thing, though, is those who opposed Social Security and Medicare were wrong in terms of their fears. Those similar critics today and questioners need to take a hard look at history and decide which side they want to be on. The side that creates progress and fosters change. Or the side that fills people's heads with lies in order to prevent necessary progress and change. What side are you on? Which side will those in Congress be on? Time will tell, but history does teach us a lot. It has shown us that Social Security and Medicare have panned out and if passed this health care legislation will certainly follow suit. One decide at the end of day, which side they are on as history will be the judge of their decision.

What Are They Serving For

Earlier today I was following all the media coverage and interviews in China featuring President Barack Obama. During one of the interviews, he mentioned something to me that has always been in the back of my mind regarding politicians. That being "Why do politicians serve." Do you politicians serve for the money? Do they serve for the power? Do they serve for the people of their district, state, or country? And then when elected, do they care more about getting reelected or serving in their position?

That last question is what stands out most to me. Many times we see a president get elected and they might take chances, but more or less they try to avoid doing anything too controversial until they are reelected. Unless a war is going on, a president is able to dictate how aggressive they need to be on domestic or foreign issues. Bill Clinton was aggressive early in his first term, but slowed down and was able to get reelected. George W. Bush had the luxury of two wars to make many undecided voters if they wanted a change in their chief executive. That is very likely a good reason that FDR got a lot support in 1940 and 1944; people were confident enough in him and felt a change during war time might not be best.

However, unlike some of his predecessors, President Obama has jumped head first into many tough and complicated issues that can easily divide an electorate. The foremost being the health care debate and legislation. Decisions in Afghanistan, the handling of the economy, and choices with the US national security have all drawn praise and criticism alike. In the interview, he mentioned that he knew that he wouldn't be like by everyone and that even though he came into office riding a wave of popularity; it was only a matter of time before it would decrease. When you make tough decisions, sometimes they will be unpopular. The great leaders know the line that they must cross between being liked and not making the best choice and being criticized as well as respected and making the tough calls that are what needs to be done. Afghanistan is a perfect example of that as he is on the brink of deciding to send more troops or not. The decision will be cheered and booed by different groups, but if the right choice is made that is all that matters for the U.S. and those still in the trenches in the Middle East.

As the interview went on, he was asked about reelection and his prospects and where his mind was on the subject. In his answer, he mentioned that he did not run for president with the only intention to get reelected. He has a lot on his plate and there are several tough issues that he must address. If health care passes. If immigration reform passes. If education reform passes. If the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan near an end and the Taliban is contained. If the economy begins to turn for the better and more people are working again and there are jobs. If some or most of that occurs, then he will be able to leave office in 2013 knowing that he is leaving accomplished changes that he set out to obtain. If people support him enough and think that the necessary progress is being made, then they will bring him back for four more years. To me, not enough politicians have that mindset. The old school politicians and those who served in the early years of the republic and at various points throughout our history had that mindset.

If you serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, you are almost constantly campaigning. They legislate probably 25% of the time and campaign 75% of the time. It should be the other way around. Then those in the U.S. Senate serve six year terms where they maybe spend half of their time campaigning and half of their time legislating. Lastly, the U.S. President serves four years and has the first year to attack an agenda full speed and then a little less the second year as they are usually trying to help their party for the midterm elections. The last two years of their term they start to get in campaign mode and are at that 75% campaign and 25% work on their agenda in the fourth year. Obama probably ran one of the best campaigns in recent memories and at times has brought that same energy and tenacity to the White House.

To take this a bit further, I will get you an example of the only president to run for office, get elected, go through his agenda, and leave after four years. In 1844, James K. Polk was elected the 11th President rising from a dark horse candidate to the White House. Not many today would be able to tell you that James Polk was president or what he accomplished in office. A story told by one his cabinet members, George Bancroft; Polk set four clear goals to accomplish in his one term. He looked to reestablish the Independent Treasury System, reduce tariffs, acquire some or all of the Oregon Country, and acquire California and New Mexico. As his term went along, the Walker Tariff was passed, which lowered tariffs. He would pass a law restore the Independent Treasury System where the money would be stored in the Treasury and not independent banks. The Oregon Treaty would give America the land that would become the states of Washington and Oregon. Also included were parts of what would one day be the states of Wyoming and Montana. With this he achieved the fulfillment of America's "Manifest Destiny." And lastly, through the Mexican War, the U.S. able to acquire land that would one day become California, Nevada, and Utah as well as parts of what would become Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado through the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Four goals; four accomplishments. Not many, if any presidents have made such bold moves. Not many, if any presidents set goals, carried them out, and walked off into the sunset.

Politicians often times say one thing and do another. There are party politics and special interest politics that go into many decisions and compromise the reason why politicians were supposed to elected to do. I would like to think so in that regard.

When politicians get to the point where they are serving themselves more than their constituents then that is the time when they need to look at themselves in the mirror and ask themselves "What am I serving for."

Week 11 NFL Preview

Last week top games were definitely some of the better action of the week. At least three of the four games. The Bengals surprised many including the Steelers knocking them off early in the season and a win again would certainly validate that earlier performance. It what turned out to be a tough defense game, Cincinnati went into Pittsburgh and swept the season series and has given them a great position in the division now. The Steelers struggled moving the ball all day and the Bengals got bye on field goals. The defending champions might have to hope for a wildcard with the way the Bengals are performing and the Ravens are still a tough team to contend with in the division. This definitely a bit of setback after it looked like the Steelers had corrected some of their problems. The Bengals have certainly improved much from last year and right now look like a serious championship contender. In a matchup of yearly playoff teams, the Chargers early lead was too much for the Eagles to come back from. HB LaDainian Tomlinson had a breakout game and couple scores. Despite the loss, QB Donovan McNabb had a monster passing game with 450 yards. The Chargers now with the Broncos loss are in position to possibly take the division lead in their rematch.

Possibly the game of the week though was another classic between the Patriots and the Colts. As predicted, the game came down to the fourth quarter. The Patriots had a slight lead and a 4th and 2 deep in their territory. They went for it and failed and set up a game winning drive of 29 yards for QB Peyton Manning and the still unbeaten Colts. Many have questioned the call all week, but Manning was moving the ball so well against the defense that it is tough to argue against the gutsy call by New England coach Bill Belichek. The Colts now move to 9-0 and have 18 straight regular season wins. Also they have that crucial tie breaker if these two teams enter a race for the top seed in the AFC. The Colts also were able to continue their success against the Patriots in the later half of the decade. The last "highlight" game of the week was only so because it was on Monday Night. The Ravens barely showed up in the first half and the Browns were somewhere else than Cleveland. It was a sloppy game by both sides, but the better team, the Ravens, did enough to score some points and blank the Browns. In the Thursday night game, QB Jay Cutler looked horrible again throwing 5 interceptions as the 49ers barely beat the Bears.

In other action, the Saints are still unbeaten after a scare from the Rams. Jaguars HB Maurice Jones-Drew probably had one of the smartest plays of the day with a knee on the goalline to run time off the clock before get a game winning field goal. It was a bit risky because at the time the Jaguars were trailing. The Titans kept their winning go with 3 straight now.

All and all, I went 10-5 last week and brings my total to 107-37 after ten weeks.

Now for Week 11:

Games of the Week:

Chargers at Broncos: The Broncos started 6-0 and now sit at 6-3. The Chargers started 2-3 and now sit at 6-3. Two teams going in different directions. The Broncos had the division lead going into the final game last year and lost to the Chargers and were home for the playoffs. This matchup is for first place again and is especially crucial for the slumping Broncos. The Chargers are starting to hit their midseason stride and could be a dangerous team again this year. This could be a San Diego blowout if the Broncos aren't careful. Pick: Chargers

Jets at Patriots: They met in Week 2 and the Jets got the better of the Patriots. This rematch is possibly even bigger than the first one. The Patriots are coming off a tough loss and the Jets haven't played especially well since that win. The Jets win this one, they could put themselves in a great position to win the division. If they lose, it could be the Patriots division to lose again. Will more of the same occur or will the Rex Ryan led Jets be different? I am not sure if they are that good yet. Pick: Patriots

Sunday Night: Eagles at Bears: The Eagles came up a little short last week while the Bears looked horrible. The Eagles are in the midst of a heated 3 way race in the NFC East and each game matters especially at this time of the year. QB Jay Cutler was expected to change the Bears recent performances at QB, but things have only gotten worse this year as he is probably having his worse year and constantly turning the ball over. Expect a lot of big plays by the Eagles' offense and a couple errors by the Bears being the difference. Pick: Eagles

Monday Night: Titans at Texans: The Texans came out of the gate fast while the Titans limped to 0-6 before turning the ball over to QB Vince Young and now they are 3-0 since. This is crucial battle for possibly a wildcard spot as the Colts look almost uncatchable in the AFC South. Can Vince Young keep up his winning ways? HB Chris Johnson has been playing huge in his second year and might be the x-factor in this one. How well the Titans' defensive backs slow down Andre Johnson will also add to a Titans' victory. Pick: Titans


Rest of the pack:

Thursday Night: Dolphins at Panthers: Both teams started at 0-3 and have begun to slowly climb out of their holes. They both sit at 4-5 and the winner will at .500 for the first time this year. QB Jake Delhomme has struggled much this season for the Panthers and the Dolphins might be without HB Ronnie Brown for the rest of the year. If HB Ricky Williams can control the ball and handle the carries, the Dolphins have a great chance at winning. Pick: Dolphins

Redskins at Cowboys: The Cowboys suffered a tough loss to the Packers last week as they couldn't get their offense going for much of the day. The Redskins got a quality win last week against the Broncos and it might help build their confidence going down the stretch. These rivalry games often are close despite how good the teams are. Expect the Redskins to play hard and the Cowboys to show a little more offense. Pick: Cowboys

Browns at Lions: This is the Stinker Bowl. These two teams are at the bottom of the NFL and it could provide for either a horrible game or a good one because they are so even. QBs Matt Stafford and Brady Quinn could have breakout games and if they can't performance against the other team's defense then they will have problems moving forward. Pick: Lions

49ers at Packers: QBs Alex Smith and Aaron Rodgers were both drafted in 2005. One has been a so-so starter for a few years and the other had a tough 6-10 year in his first year out of the shadow of QB legend Brett Favre. There was much mentioned about who was better. This game could be a good test for both and for both teams as they make playoff pushes. The Packers have a great defense this year and if the Packers can protect Rodgers than they will be able to have some good success. Pick: Packers

Steelers at Chiefs: The Steelers know they need to win the winnable games from here on out. They struggled last week and have truly missed SS Troy Polamulu this year. The Chiefs have showed signs of progress, but are still a young team that makes mistakes. HB Jamaal Charles might have a breakout second half of the season. Pick: Steelers

Seahawks at Vikings: The Vikings continue to roll and not much will probably change this week against a struggling Seahawks team. They have a huge lead in the NFC North, but can't get too comfortable. Pick: Vikings

Falcons at Giants: The Falcons started very good, but have struggled with injuries to QB Matt Ryan and HB Michael Turner. The Giants started 5-0 then went 0-4. Both sit at 5-4 and their seasons are at stake in this one. The Falcons are basically fighting for a wildcard spot while the Giants can still win the NFC East. This one should be close and could depend on the health of the two offensive stars for the Falcons. Pick: Giants

Saints at Buccaneers: The Saints survived a scare last week and have a big matchup looming next week with the Patriots. They should have little trouble with the Buccaneers. The Buccaneers might make it interesting since its a division game, but I just can't see it. Pick: Saints

Bills at Jaguars: The Jaguars got an important win last week and now let's see if they can be consistent and play back to back good games. In their favor is a matchup with an inept offense in Buffalo. They have showed some signs of progressive moving the ball, but they continue to have too many 3 and outs. Pick: Jaguars

Colts at Ravens: The Colts face a stiff challenge this week against a tough minded Ravens squad. These games have been close the last few times around. The Ravens' defense will definitely test QB Peyton Manning and the Colts' offense. Expect a field goal or touchdown to be the difference in this one and decided in the fourth quarter. Pick: Colts

Cardinals at Rams: The Cardinals have played very well so far again this season, but have not shown up a few other times. The Rams are a shell of their former self and this has been another long year for them. The Cardinals have another division title in site and have played fairly well against the Rams in the last few years. Pick: Cardinals

Bengals at Raiders: The Bengals have to avoid a letdown this week against the Raiders after a big win. The Raiders have surprised a few teams this year, but I think the Bengals are better than most thought they would be and should continue to show that this week. Bengals

Will the Colts and Saints move to 10-0 this week? Which playoff teams will start to emerge? Can the Giants and Broncos stop their skids? It should be another good week.

Week 12 College Football Preview

We are winding nearer to the end of the season and the contenders are starting to separate as the conference title games could decide a lot.

Recap of last week: Ohio and Buffalo gave us a close one down to the end with Ohio prevailing. Central Michigan looked very good with a QB performance possibly of the year from Dan LeFevour. Bowling Green was victorious over Miami (OH) in a blowout and Northern Illinois was able to edge out Ball State. On Thursday, Rutgers once again had South Florida’s number as they blanked the Bulls and dropped the #24 team at Rutgers Stadium 31-0. Temple continued their surprising season with a beat down of Akron. East Carolina looked impressive on Sunday night with a win over Tulsa and has a chance to win the CUSA this year. Texas had little trouble with Baylor and stayed on course for a shot at playing in the national title game. Georgia Tech also did not struggle too much with an upset-minded Duke team. They seem to be positioned to play in a BCS game. Houston settled a setback with UCF knocking them off. Mississippi looked like a top team many thought they would be this year as they ran through Lane Kiffin’s Volunteer team. It definitely was not one of Tennessee’s better defensive games of the year. Boise State and Alabama had little trouble with Idaho and Mississippi State, respectively. While Steve Spurrier and South Carolina gave Florida some trouble before the Gators pull away in the end. In a Big 12 showdown, Oklahoma State was able to get the best of Texas Tech in a back and forth battle. In Pac-10 action, Oregon continued their surge as they had little trouble with Arizona State.

In terms of my top 5 matchups picks, I went 4-1 this past week and after eleven weeks I'm 40-15 on the year. Pittsburgh continued their collision course of sorts with Cincinnati with a good win over a slumping Notre Dame team. HB Dione Lewis had a field day against the Irish defense and a late surge in the fourth quarter fell short for Charlie Weis’s team. They definitely have to look in the mirror and see if they want to end on a good note. In what was expected to be a pretty good Pac-10 matchup turned out to be a rout with the unexpected team pulling it off. Stanford went into the Coliseum and embarrassed the Trojans. This is probably the worse loss in Pete Carroll’s USC tenure. It is usually USC routing PAC-10 squads and not the other way around. HB Toby Gerhart looked impressive in a big game and has officially launched onto the national scene. The game will be key for USC as they look to rebound while Stanford has given themselves a great chance to win the PAC-10 if they can keep the momentum going.

Thursday and Friday night of last week allowed the Big East to highlight some of their better teams. On Friday, Cincinnati and West Virginia were locked in a big time battle with Big East conference rights on the line. The winner would take a step towards possibly claiming the title and a BCS birth. Cincinnati was playing for even more as they were and still are undefeated. West Virginia gave the Bearcats a couple of good punches, but QB Tony Pike and the team pulled ahead and made the plays they needed to down the stretch. Despite having an inexperienced rookie at QB, Iowa gave Ohio State everything they had and then some. The two battle back and forth all day knowing the winner would be smelling the roses and heading to Pasadena for the Rose Bowl. Iowa was also looking to rebound from their first loss, but it was not meant to be as QB Tyrelle Pryor and the Buckeyes were too much and took at the end by a field goal. Utah went to TCU in what to me was possibly the bigger game of the weekend (as opposed to Iowa at Ohio State for the Rose Bowl and Big Ten title). Utah and TCU have been two of the few teams that have been able to break through in recent years and hang around the conversation with “the big boys of college football.” TCU is still undefeated and has national title hopes; despite the slim chances they might be at the moment. TCU, thus, definitely knew what they had to do and against a very good Utah team; they embarrassed the Utes. TCU’s defense was all over the place and made a very good team look very average. TCU has certainly opened a few more eyes with this win. Time will tell how the rest of TCU’s season plays out, but they certainly look like a dangerous team and if a few of “big boys” stumble and they don’t; it only would make sense to give them a shot at the title.

Now turning to this week's slate of games that might be worth watching/feature a team or teams with something on the line:

Wednesday Night:
Buffalo at Miami (OH): Not much to get excited with in the matchup, but shouldn’t be a blowout.

Central Michigan at Ball State: Central Michigan has looked very good thus far and seems to be the best team in the MAC with one of the best QBs, possibly in the country. Could get ugly.

Thursday Night:
Colorado at No. 12 Oklahoma State: This might not look like a close matchup, but Colorado will give Oklahoma State everything they got. Oklahoma State could be on upset alert this week.

Friday Night:
Akron at Bowling Green: Bowling Green has shown signs of being a pretty good team. Don’t expect any fireworks in this one.

Eastern Michigan at Toledo: A lackluster matchup between two bad teams.

No. 6 Boise State at Utah State: Boise State knows they need to win every game and should play hard this week with the end of the season getting closer.

Saturday
Chattanooga at No. 2 Alabama: Alabama gets an easy break this week and could use this one to tune up for the rough two weeks to end the year.

Florida International at No. 1 Florida: Florida gets a break after a bit of a tough stretch. They should be able to keep on their collision course with Alabama and for their sake, clean up some of their offensive miscues.

No. 4 TCU at Wyoming: This one could be over at halftime. TCU will not let this one slip away. It won’t be close.

Virginia at No. 23 Clemson: Clemson is on the brink of playing for an ACC title. HB C.J. Spiller has been an all purpose threat and could provide the difference against a not so good Virginia team.

San Diego State at No. 21 Utah: Utah is basically out of the BCS conversation, but will look to prove that they are better than they played a week ago.

Kansas at No. 3 Texas: Kansas came out of the gate strong, but has begun to struggle in recent weeks. Texas knows that every game and every second matters this year and won’t slip up this week. Kansas does not have enough weapons and the off the field stuff is looming. Texas would be wise to work on their running game as crucial games lie ahead.

Now my top 5 matchups for Week 12:
5) North Carolina at Boston College: Boston College has a shot to still play for an ACC title, but needs a big win against the Tar Heels. North Carolina has looked very expressive at times this year, but has also had a few off games. Both are fairly matched and it could become a game of whomever has the ball last will win the game. Expect a good amount of points and one decided in the fourth quarter. Pick: North Carolina

4) Kansas State at Nebraska: Not exactly a big Big 12 matchup, but there is a lot at stake in this one. The winner gets a shot to play in the Big 12 title game. Nebraska is looking to show that they are a premiere team while Kansas State has improved since last year. Expect Nebraska’s defense especially the defensive line to be the difference in this one. Pick: Nebraska

3) No. 11 Oregon at Arizona: In a weekend featuring key conference battles, this one might be one of the biggest. Oregon had a rough start, but has rebounded very nicely and has themselves possibly playing in the Rose Bowl. The same could be said of Arizona; a team that has improved a little each year under head coach, Mike Stoops. This has the potential to be a close one or a blowout if Oregon gets rolling. I doubt that will happen as Arizona has played tough all year, but I don’t know if they have enough on offense. Pick: Oregon

2) No. 25 California at No. 17 Stanford: Both teams are alive in a wide open Pac-10 race this year as USC has struggled. Stanford was impressive a week ago while California has looked good at times, but has had off weeks as well. HB Jevad Best from California has been banged up and has hurt their offense. HB Toby Gerhart has slowly come on and when the game is on the line; he could be the difference. Could be a close one down to the wire. Pick: Stanford

1) No. 10 Ohio State at Michigan: This one will probably not be a classic in the long rivalry, but for both teams; this one still matters. Beating the other truly makes the other’s year. Ohio State is Rose Bowl bound and Michigan looks to be sitting at home for the second straight bowl season. These are two programs in two different positions. But with rivalry games you never know what might happen. This one is pretty predictable. Pick: Ohio State

Week 11 NFL Power Rankings

In what was intended to be the Game of the Week if not the Game of the Regular Season, the Colts and Patriots did not let any down. In what has become a regular yearly occurrence, the two met and they play a close game down to the wire. The Patriots went for it on 4th and 2 late in the game and failed giving QB Peyton Manning about 30 yards and 2 minutes to score the go ahead touchdown to win and stay undefeated. There is a good chance that these two could see each other with a Super Bowl on the line. The win keeps the Colts perfect at 9-0. The Saints also stayed perfect this week by surviving a good effort by the Rams. The Bengals came out of their clash with the Steelers with another win and are now 7-2 and are 5-0 in the AFC North with sweeps of the Ravens and Steelers. The Browns and Lions continued to look bad and now find themselves headed toward a matchup.

2009 Power Rankings (going into Week 11):
1.(1) Saints (9-0): The sign of a good team is they find a way to win the bad games they play.
2.(2) Colts (9-0): They are undefeated and have question marks. Peyton Manning in the clutch delivered again.
3.(3) Vikings (8-1): They continued to look dominant against a bad Lions team and have the best record they've had in over a decade.
4.(4) Bengals (7-2): Who dey? They the Bengals who are 5-0 in their division and have swept the two teams who played for the AFC crown last year and their division rivals.
5.(5) Steelers (6-3): They suffered two crushing losses to the Bengals this year. And might be without SS Troy Polamulu for a bit of time again.
6.(6) Patriots (6-3): They went for it on 4th and 2 deep in their territory and failed and loss a tough one to the Colts. They should be able to get past this fast.
7.(12) Chargers (6-3): They looked mediocre at times, but have hit their midseason stride of the last couple years and could take the division lead this week.
8.(11) Cardinals (6-3): They have played especially well on the road and that's where they are this week.
9.(7) Broncos (6-3): A once dominant team is struggling and is without QB Kyle Orton as they face the Chargers.
10.(8) Cowboys (6-3): Nothing like a loss to humble this team moving forward. Let's see how they respond.
11.(10) Eagles (5-4): They looked to be in firm control of their division, but two losses later and this team to find some answers.
12.(15) Ravens (5-4): They will take a win, but need to step it up against better teams. This week is a great chance against the Colts.
13.(13) Texans (5-4): They come out of a bye against a suddenly hot Titans team. Upset alert is on.
14.(16) Packers (5-4): They showed that they are a good team after losing to the Bucs a week earlier.
15.(9) Falcons (5-4): They are in bit of slump and might be without HB Michael Turner. That will put a lot of pressure on QB Matt Ryan.
16.(15) Giants (5-4): They had a bye and need to start out the second half with a win or could lose too much ground in a close division.
17.(20) Jaguars (5-4): They used a bit of interesting strategy to sneak away with a win.
18.(19) Dolphins (4-5): They look to be without HB Ronnie Brown moving forward and that could affect the effectiveness of the Wildcat.
19.(22) 49ers (4-5): They got a big win to build some confidence and need to continue to keep up with the Cardinals.
20.(23) Panthers (4-5): Now they are starting to play like the team many expected and could make a second half run.
21.(21) Titans (3-6): They are finding a stride riding QB Vince Young and HB Chris Johnsona and could become a spoiler in the second half starting with the Texans this week.
22.(17) Jets (4-5): They looked like a top team to start the year and could fall again against a tough Patriots team this week. 1-5 in their last six games is not good.
23.(18) Bears (4-5): They are turning the ball over and making too many mistakes to be a good team and win games.
24.(26) Redskins (3-6): A win against the Broncos will certainly help this team for now, but they could be back in the loss column this week against the Cowboys.
25.(25) Seahawks (3-6): They kept up with the Cardinals in the first half, but they became overmatched in the second half.
26.(24) Bills (3-6): Another loss and now their coach is gone. And Terrell Owens is starting to show his frustrations in public.
27.(28) Chiefs (2-7): They got another win at the hands of the Raiders. They will take it.
28.(27) Raiders (2-7): If you are going to win, you need to win easier games and they lose them too.
29.(30) Rams (1-8): HB Steven Jackson is averaging around 100 yards and keeping this team afloat the last couple weeks.
30.(31) Buccaneers (1-8): QB Josh Freeman is developing and could give the offense some life for the rest of the year.
31.(29) Lions (1-8): They continue to lose, but get a break with the Browns this week.
32.(32) Browns (1-8): Talk about confusion and nothing going good.

There won't be any games with the hype of Patriots-Colts or even Steelers-Bengals this week, but some crucial games including Colts-Ravens and Patriots-Jets. Should be good.

Take a Bow

President Obama's current visit to Asia was a key diplomatic mission for the United States and his administration. However, despite all the important discussions and developments; the big news story is what President Obama did when he met and greeted Japanese Emperor Akihito. Many from the right wing have criticized his action and has called it a sign of weaknesses and disrespect for America. When Obama greeted Akihito he bent over and bowed to the smaller leader. A little too low for some. Obama's critics see the bow as him bowing to Japan or worse: America bowing to Japan. These same critics feel that no US President should bow to anyone. Obama's bow has garnered comparisons of other leaders and their protocol when they met the Japanese emperor.

This is not the first time that right wing voices has attacked Obama when greeting foreign leaders. Back in April, President Obama bowed to King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia at the G20 summit. That was viewed as going against American tradition and values. In this case, critics of the bow saw the President being equal to a peasant bowing to a king and America lessen themselves to an Islamic nation.

However, this bow to Emperor Akihito was no different and not wrong either. Obama, being someone who believes in traditions and values of other nations, was simply following protocol. Anyone who wants to view this as anything more is looking for a needle in a haystack, so to speak. President Obama is respected in many areas of the world and is similar to one of his predecessors in that regard. President Bill Clinton also drew some criticism for his greeting of the Japanese emperor.

Those who want to find a fault with his bow by the president need to take a bow themselves. Because they are certainly putting on quite a show.

College Football Power Rankings- going into Week 12

The top teams remained intact after another week. Florida did enough to win, Alabama cruised in the second half, and Texas routed to a win. TCU truly showed up this week and got a HUGE win against Utah by beating them by multiple touchdowns. Boise State and Cincinnati also stay among the unbeatens and looked very good doing so. Ohio State has all but clinched a Big Ten title and looks to be headed to Pasadena and the Rose Bowl. We have another bit of a shift at the bottom and the outside teams again this week. USC took the biggest fall as Stanford, who rose a lot, outclassed them and all but ended the Trojan dominance of recent years.

Top 25 Power Rankings
1) Florida (10-0)(vs Florida International)
2) Texas (10-0)(vs Kansas)
3) Alabama (10-0)(vs Chattanooga)
4) TCU (10-0)(at Wyoming)
5) Cincinnati (10-0)(IDLE)
6) Boise State (10-0)(at Utah State)
7) Georgia Tech (10-1)(IDLE)
8) Pittsburgh (9-1)(IDLE)
9) Ohio State (9-2)(at Michigan)
10) LSU (8-2)(at Mississippi)
11) Oregon (8-2)(at Arizona)
12) Oklahoma State (8-2)(vs Colorado)
13) Iowa (9-2)(vs Minnesota)
14) Penn State (9-2)(at Michigan State)
15) Virginia Tech (7-3)(vs North Carolina State)
16) Stanford (7-3)(at California)
17) Wisconsin (8-2)(at Northwestern)
18) Brigham Young (8-2)(vs Air Force)
19) Clemson (7-3)(vs Virginia)
20) Miami (FL) (7-3)(vs Duke)
21) Oregon State (7-3)(at Washington State)
22) USC (7-3)(IDLE)
23) Utah (8-2)(vs San Diego State)
24) Houston (8-2)(vs Memphis)
25) Rutgers (7-2)(at Syracuse)

Outside 5
1) North Carolina (7-3)(at Boston College)
2) Mississippi (7-3)(vs LSU)
3) Arizona (6-3)(vs Oregon)
4) California (7-3)(vs Stanford)
5) Nebraska (7-3)(vs Kansas State)

Typical Politics as Usual

As someone who has studied politics and follow it on a regular basis, I feel that there are some things that are common and have been part of the political agenda/political realm for years. One such thing is the what I like to call "You are either blue or red" debate. The Democrats (blue) rally around one side and the Republicans (red) rally around the opposite side. They then use their party and policy preferences to dominate matters that should be looked at more of "a purple matter" not a red/blue matter. These "purple matters" are things that are for the betterment of the majority/mostly everyone or matters that are of a highly serious nature. One such highly serious topic is the recent discussions regarding the forthcoming trials for the 9/11 terrorists. Another topic would be the ongoing health care debate. I can list several topics that come up especially during election cycles.

To keep this as more about substance than rhetoric (something many politicians can learn from especially Republicans in the past year or so), I will focus on what is wrong about things today. I hear over and over that people are being turned off by politics today. They don't trust their politicians. They don't trust that they are truly working for them. Politics has never really been a big attention grabber and when there is more negativity hovering around it then people are going to definitely not want to be interested. But that negativity does bring people out, who often express negative opinions or outrage instead of positive opinions and thanks.

There have been waves of political decorum in Congress and as much as I hate to say we are in the midst of a heavily partisan time period. Democrats may be the party in power, but they have tried to reach across the aisle. Instead of getting a handshake they have been greeted with a slap in the face and a low blow from time to time. We have members of Congress insult the President instead of looking to discuss their differences in private. We have constantly heard "No" to everything and anything that is positive in changing the current health care system. I view it not as much as they don't care about America and the people suffering, but about politics. That view of politics over people can be seen in the arguments by Republicans and conservatives against having a just and fair trial in New York City for terrorists of 9/11. President Bush had eight years to handle terrorists at Guantanamo Bay; now it is in the hands of President Obama.

Voices of opposition are natural and will occur in the decades ahead. Republicans and conservatives have their opinions and values. Democrats and liberals have their opinions and values. Those differences will always create friction and difficulties will constantly occur. But what I implore politicians especially those in Congress, is to stop thinking about yourselves so much and trying to get reelected. Stop trying to prevent the opposing party from having success if it means that the American people will suffer from and only you will have "a victory." I know I can't change many people's opinions and views, but I do offer some constructive advice: try to move to the middle. If you sit in the middle you are able to do things that assist those who represent the left and assist those who represent the right. Politics has always been dirty, but politics as usual needs to change. America's early politicians and founding fathers warned against factions. The way that Madison talked about factions were mostly focused on majority and minority parties. To me, though, the biggest downfall of factions is that they create walls of politicians. Democrats form one wall and Republicans form another wall. They walls are either only blue or only red. However, imagine a purple wall. A wall made up of red and blue politicians forming one wall and red and blue politicians forming another wall.

This sounds like a crazy metaphor, but there is something to it. We have seen legislation with John McCain and Russ Feingold as the co-sponsors. We have seen legislation with Ted Kennedy and Orrin Hatch as the co-sponsors. However, all we see today is Harry Reid/Dick Durbin and the Democrats against Mitch McConnell/Jon Kyl and the Republicans. Or Nancy Pelosi/Steny Hoyer and the Democrats against John Boehner/Eric Cantor and the Republicans. The more that Democrats and Republicans work alongside each other and try to compromise the better all of us we off. That has been the true downfall that has seemed to emerge more than ever in the past decade. Stop playing political games and start serving. Use fact not fiction. That is what I know I would hope to do if I was serving my state/district in Congress. This perspective should be applied to those in the media and other roles who have a voice and could impact opinion. Those in the public eye owe it to the American people because as much as I hate to say it; there are way too many paranoid or uneducated people out there. That is where my argument's core truly comes from. The more of the same only hurts our future.

I implore those who care enough to read and do your homework and you will see through the lies. If you only listen and not read, you only get half the story. That half is usually the side that doesn't paint politics in a good light. That half is the side that involves the fight between two sides who are mixed and integrated with members of both sides of the aisle. The day that politics and rhetoric stop being used as a policy initiative for the betterment of one party or another then that is the day that politics as usual might finally be over.

Health Care or Afghanistan...Which One Deserves More Attention and Money?

Putting the economy and current recession, the two biggest issues I would say are the ongoing wars in the Middle East and health care. President Obama and Congress, with that in mind, will soon make defining choices about the Afghanistan War and health care. The commonality between the two: they both require large amounts of money. That would lead one to believe that we can't have enough to fully finance both. Thus bringing one to think, "What is more important?": either fighting in the deserts of Afghanistan or building up America's health care. The war is on foreign soil while there are things like health care that could help Americans in the United States.

Looking at the costs, the total cost in Afghanistan has been running around $1 million per year per solider. These costs only factor in what has been spent and what is being spent and not considering what costs there might be down the line in the next 5 or 10 years and beyond. We must consider that when these men and women return; many need disability benefits and other treatments especially brain trauma examinations. It is estimated that very soon President Obama will send another 30,000-40,000 troops to the 68,000 already in the country and region. These troop deployments would almost certainly raise the costs into the $100 billion region. Then, there is health care reform. The estimated 10 year cost has been suggested to average between $80 billion to $110 billion per year; pending any adjustments.

This leads to a tough dilemma: a war vs health care. War supporters denounce health care reform and the money it will waste while then turn and endorse spending the same amount on a war in Afghanistan. The same could be said of supporters of reform when they say don't waste money on a war, but spend it on reform for health care. The questions begin to be risen. We see many suffering or dying due to the lack of health insurance they have or none at all. We see many getting wounded or dying in Afghanistan; especially in the last year. A Harvard study shows that individuals die from a consequence of lack of health care coverage every 12 minutes in the United States. To put that in a bigger perspective, every three weeks those individuals who die from lack of health insurance equals the amount of people who were killed on September 11th. Matters are only getting worse with more companies cutting costs and insurance companies denying or canceling coverage. That means that more people are not insured with these changes happening at a moments notice. However, we see troops and forces in Afghanistan in need of more bodies and supplies. If we are to fight this war and hopefully end it soon; we must handle it correctly with proper maneuvers.

It would probably go without saying that the current health reform legislation in Congress is not ideal and does not seem to be signed into law anytime soon. It may not cover all the bases, but it does present progress to what seems to be a problem that is only getting worse as we face an economic recession. The Afghanistan War is also not a perfect entity. Troop deployments are not exactly a clear cut popular decision and some doubt their effectiveness in serving their purpose. So, that leaves one to ask: where should $100 billion a year be spent? The Helmand province in Afghanistan or in many of the cities across the United States for health care reform?

Call me crazy, but I think both can be done. I put more importance in health care reform as it effects everyone here in the United States as the Afghanistan War only partially affects the United States. The money spent on health care reform will pay for itself in the future and is meant to be a lasting investment for all who need the coverage. The money that would be spent on the war has a short term window and goal. However, it would be foolish to let the war end the way it is now. It would be wrong to leave the troops over there undermanned. So, let's put the necessary money and time into the war while still keeping in mind that we need health care reform. We have been known to multi-task before. Why can't we do it again now?

Week 10 NFL Preview

The four games of the week lived up to most of the hype going into each. The winners came out as big winners while the losers left their respective game as big losers. In a crucial AFC South showdown, the Colts again proved that they are the dominant team in the AFC South and the Texans have improved, but still have a bit to go to knock off the Colts. The game was close and for that the Texans offense gets a lot of credit for keeping up with QB Peyton Manning. However, they were mismatched in coverage against TE Dallas Clark as he moved the ball through their defense. It did take a missed field goal as time expired for the Colts to escape. The rematch will certainly be another good one. Two very good offenses! The Giants' slide continued as they failed to hold off the Chargers late fourth quarter comeback. They now enter their bye week at 5-4 after starting 5-0. Not the way the team that won a Super Bowl two years ago expected themselves to be. The Chargers, on the other hand, are starting to surge and might give the Broncos a tough run for the AFC West title and it could end up like last year. Both teams could be serious contenders if they get their problems fixed. The Giants need a bye to seriously regroup.

The Eagles and Cowboys both entered the game playing fairly hot and coming off nice wins, however the Eagles couldn't get the big plays to develop and QB Tony Romo only needed one big play to emerging WR Austin Miles to get the big score and win the game. The NFC East lead was on the line and the Cowboys played more like a complete team and got the win. They put enough pressure on the offense and got enough plays off on offense. The Eagles are starting to struggle to stay consistent on offense again. They will certainly meet again and the division title will probably be on the line. The Steelers again showed why they are the defending champions as they did enough in the first half and slowly put away the Broncos in the second half. The once dominant Broncos' defense is leaking fast and giving up 30 points a game and not even averaging 10. The Steelers have crept back into the big picture and now have a major divisional game against the Bengals this week to show how good they are.

The main action during the Redskins-Falcons game came on the sideline as the Redskins' struggles continued. The Bengals made another huge statement as they were able to run for over 100 yards for the second time against the Ravens and have swept them. The Buccaneers were finally able to get a win and every team has now won. With the win, they gave the Packers a bad loss. And the Saints struggled a bit early again, but were able to come back and win big to stay unbeaten.

All and all, I went 9-4 last week and brings my total to 97-32 after nine weeks.

Now for Week 10:

Games of the Week:
Bengals at Steelers: They battled to the end last time they met. Both are sitting at 6-2 and the division will most likely go to the winner. The Steelers were not closing games out last time they met, but now they are lethal in the fourth quarter. The offense of the Bengals is back to where they were a few years ago and are very potent when on. This one will certainly come down to the wire again. The end will be different. Pick: Steelers

Eagles at Chargers: Both of these teams are under performing and could use this win big time. They are both in second place in their respective divisions and both have the players capable to compete for a Super Bowl. The early goings of the game will dictate the last half of the fourth quarter. It should be a close game throughout and the Chargers might be in a similar situation as this past week against the Giants. Pick: Chargers

Sunday Night: Patriots at Colts: The main event of Week 10! Brady v Manning. Patriots v Colts. These teams have waged war multiple times this decade. For much of the decade, the Patriots dominated the series, but in recent years the Colts have the Patriots' number. The Colts are 8-0 and have a 17 game regular season win streak. The only two longer streaks are owned by these Patriots twice this decade. The AFC championship very well could go through the winner of this game and their city. The Patriots are always prepared for the biggest games and they will have some advantages will a weaken Colts' secondary. This one should be good. The fourth quarter will decide the winner. Pick: Colts

Monday Night: Ravens at Browns: This one is on the Games of the Week purely because its a Monday Night game. The Browns are 1-7 and are horrid on offense. The Ravens have struggled lately, but will look to dominate the Browns in primetime. This one probably won't be close, but Monday Night creates drama many times so who knows. Pick: Ravens

Rest of the pack:
Thursday Night: Bears at 49ers: The first of the usual Thursday night NFL Network games on the schedules. It is a game between two very average teams and the loser will certainly how a long shot of making the postseason. Mike Singletary hosts his former team for the first time and should give for media comments. The Bears are surprisingly weak on defense and don't have the same feel of past years. The 49ers know they need a win to right their ship after a strong start. Pick: 49ers

Saints at Rams: The Rams finally won and got a bye. The Saints have not started strong the last couple weeks yet were able to win. Look for the Rams to struggle again despite HB Steven Jackson's effort and for the Saints to play well from start to finish. QB Drew Brees might have one of his better games of the year. Pick: Saints

Buccaneers at Dolphins: The Dolphins have had a tough schedule, but get the Bucs this week. The Bucs looked better last week as they finally won, but can they keep that up this week. The Wildcat will keep the Bucs' defense running around. Look for QB Josh Freeman to continue to develop as he learns that the NFL is tough week to week. Pick: Dolphins

Lions at Vikings: The Vikings get a chance to show how good they are when they host a beat up, bad team in the Lions. This one will probably not be too close. Pick: Vikings

Jaguars at Jets: The Jets used to look very good overall, especially on defense, but have tapered off in recent weeks. The Jags seem to show up one week and take the next week off. This will be a good test for the Jets as they look to stay alive in the AFC East now that the Patriots are back on top. HB Maurice Jones-Drew will keep the Jaguars in this one until the end, but will he be enough? Pick: Jets

Bills at Titans: The Bills might get QB Trent Edwards back this week to maybe help their offense. The Titans are suddenly surging and have won two straight. HB Chris Johnson is still running strong and QB Vince Young has done enough to put points on the board and not make mistakes. The Bills' are still struggling and give the Titans a great opportunity to win again. Pick: Titans

Broncos at Redskins: The Broncos have struggled in the last two weeks, but they get the Redskins and should be able to right their mistakes. They should be able to reclaim their defensive strength as the Redskins are losing players and patience. Pick: Broncos

Falcons at Panthers: The Falcons have been struggling a bit of late while the Panthers are starting to show signs of improvement. The Panthers are holding onto the ball and gave the Saints a battle for at least a half last week. HB Michael Turner looks to have a running groove going while HB DeAngelo Williams is doing very well himself. The one who has a better game will certainly give his team an edge. Pick: Falcons

Chiefs at Raiders: This matchup the first time wasn't very good and the rematch won't be much better. It will be low scoring and about five turnovers between the two of them. This one could be sloppy. Pick: Chiefs

Seahawks at Cardinals: The Cardinals' offense looks to be very dangerous again and have destroyed a few teams this year. They are playing well again and could put the division almost out of reach this week (at least for the Seahawks). The Seahawks are playing similar to last year when they had a bad season and its mostly due to some injuries. This one could become a blowout, but the Seahawks will fight hard. Pick: Cardinals

Cowboys at Packers: The Cowboys are going up while the Packers are going down. The Cowboys have hit their stride and QB Tony Romo to WR Miles Austin has become a weekly occurrence. The Packers have not been able to protect QB Aaron Rodgers multiple times and he is making slight mistakes that are costing the team despite his other good stats. The Packers' defense will have to play big this week to win. I expect it to be a close one decided by less than a touchdown. Pick: Cowboys

Can the Colts and Saints stay unbeaten? Who will prevail out of yearly Brady/Manning rivalry duel? There are some more key matches this week highlighted by Colts-Patriots and Steelers-Bengals. Both have huge playoff implications.

Jon Stewart gets Fox News...again

No bias. No bull. That is truly what Jon Stewart and the Daily Show are when there is media that is left leaning or right leaning is today's media market. Stewart rips both sides if they deserve it. He usually brings things to light in a comical setting that makes generally serious topics fairly funny. Last night, Stewart did what he does on each show: find a current event/media fumble to satire. But yesterday was truly one that was deserved. I am not the biggest fan of the way certain things operate in the 24/7 media world we live in. Fox News, in particular, is not very high on my list of "credible news sources." I will say this much; I firmly believe that there are certain individuals on the networks that try to give the stories they tell on a daily the proper objectivity. However, some in my opinion are essentially opinion shows that often get too much power in terms of being projected as truth instead of the opinions they are. One such show is Hannity's America hosted by Sean Hannity. I know that Hannity has mentioned more than once that he is a huge fan of President Ronald Reagan. Often times, when certain political minded individuals get truly inspired by politics; their passion is usually linked to a person or persons.

He clearly is strongly conservative minded. He generally has many conservatives voices on his show as well as the occasional opposing opinion and "random celebrity." But, when Fox News likes to talk about how "they are the best news source today", they need to avoid blunders like the one they blatantly knew about and thought they could get away with. AHA! Jon Stewart catches all! Last week, there was a rally against the Health Care Bill, which generated a healthy amount of people for a weekday. I will avoid any talk about whether they were grassroots oriented or disciples of Fox News. However, as Sean Hannity ran the segment on it, which featured an interview with two Republican Congress members; there was a BIG discrepancy. The trees and sky looked very different in one part of the clips then in other clips. The sky was clear and the trees had an autumn feel to them that November day, but there were clips of a cloudy day featuring trees full of green and lacking characteristics of trees in the middle of the Fall. Know why? One set of clips were from November 5th while the other ones were from the 9/12 rally about two months ago. SURPRISE! BUSTED! FALSE FOOTAGE!

The rally was certainly good enough to display as is, but Fox News couldn't resist trying to give the crowd some "steroids" and "beefed it up." Way to take something possibly good for "you" and destroy it in my opinion. Once again I find myself laughing at Fox News and questioning their credibility. There are mistakes and miscues and then there are blunders and LIES. This is certainly the latter. Just like Jon Stewart did last night, I can't help but laugh and wonder.

For your viewing pleasure and enjoyment, the link to the clip is at the end of this short article:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/deadlineusa/2009/nov/11/usa-comedy

Congressionl Terms...More Than A Thought

Before Franklin Delano Roosevelt ran for a third term in 1940 and then a fourth term in 1944, no president had ever gone beyond "the Washington standard." That "standard" being that after two terms of office, you as the president step aside and let a new man govern the nation. Shortly after, the 22nd amendment was passed and limited any individual from being elected to no more than two full terms. In 2008, George W. Bush was latest president to step aside after serving out his two elected terms.

Every once in a while, there are voices talking about this topic. Supreme Court justices are appointed to life terms and that is fine and serves a purpose. However members of Congress are not given similar guidelines or guidelines in general as the President has. There are terms like "life-time Senator" or references to the age of a member or how long they have sat in their seat. In late August, "the Lion of the Senate", Ted Kennedy, passed away ending a 46 year tenure serving Massachusetts. Recently, Senator Robert Byrd became the longest serving member of Congress ever. He has been in the Senate 50 years and spent a few years in the House. The length of service is longer than a lot of people's lives. Over the last few election cycles we have seen some new faces elected; some old faces step down or get kicked out of office. Through it all, mummers continue.

The latest individual to voice some concern regarding the terms that some members of Congress serve is South Carolina Senator, Jim DeMint. He will soon bring to the Senate a constitutional amendment that will limit members of Congress to three terms (six years) in the House and two terms (12 years) in the Senate. After spending a decade or more in the nation's capital, DeMint believes that even the best politicians could become corrupt and these "career politicians" start to pander to special interests, lobbyists, and big government policies. A big reason for his legislation is the fact that members of Congress end up spending more time running reelection campaigns than governing and legislating; the thing they were elected to do.

Thomas Jefferson is quoted with saying back in 1776, that "to prevent every danger which might arise to American freedom by continuing too long in office"; term limits would be necessary. Some who see things differently than DeMint bring up elections as the term limits. If people should no longer be in office, then people will vote them out. However, it is tough for challengers to dethrone an incumbent especially if they serve a far left or far right district or a state that generally goes one way or another making it tough for the other party to win if the incumbent decides to run again. Money also comes into play as incumbents usually have more at their disposal as well as whatever the special interests and lobbyists give them. Money is very important in politics and can overcome a lesser popularity rating.

In a recent poll, 82% want congressional limits and agree with DeMint. I find myself leaning towards that 82% when I look at politics and members of Congress. There are some who have been in office for decades and continue to find ways to serve their constituents while there are some that seem to sway. Some might argue that having men and women in Congress with several years of Congressional experience should help enable the best decisions to be made. That sounds great on paper, but that doesn't happen enough. The reelection distraction brought up by DeMint is very valid.

So in my opinion there are two realistic and necessary options to give the American what they deserve: legislators for the people, by the people. The first would be to impose these term limits mentioned by DeMint. Maybe add a term to each, but something around the 6 years for House members and years for Senate members seem fair as to avoid them falling into corrupt patterns or not doing their job to their best ability. The second option, which is also worth exploring and could be applied to the presidential level is limit campaigning. I am very much aware especially in today's overhyped and overexposed media of the need for campaigning to occur. But do candidates truly need to spend half of their term running for office. In the Senate it is a little easier to wait, but House members have two year terms and spend half of their term campaigning.

One of the things I dislike about campaigns is the overuse of ads. That money can be rationed and some of it spent on ads and the rest spent on the people through programs and reforms if elected. A debate or two is fair and the handful of ads and appearances is also needed. But things are taken too far and thus members of Congress can't legislate as they need to be on the campaign trail almost 24/7. This might be slightly unrealistic, but why can't it happen. Members of Congress should be spend 4/5 of their time legislating. However it is closer to 3/5 or even 1/2 of their time. That doesn't seem fair to me.

I look forward to see where Senator DeMint's legislation and constitutional amendment goes because there certainly are flaws with current system. Just as President's needed a limit; it just might be time to give our members of Congress the same guidelines and restrictions. Otherwise, we might see a continued decline in the way that the public views them.

Week 11 College Football Preview

Another week and another couple of shake ups as national title picture begins to become a little clearer each week.

Recap of last week: Bowling Green was able to outscore Buffalo in their Tuesday night clash. Virginia Tech showed how good a team they are when they play defense and do the right things as they took care of East Carolina. Temple looked very good again against an average team in Miami (OH). Northern Illinois won impressively as well against a sad team in Eastern Michigan. Boise State kept winning when they defeated Louisiana Tech, but again did not do it very impressively as they struggled at times to hold on for the victory. Nevada got a pretty good win over San Jose State in the Sunday night matchup. Texas blew UCF away and McCoy to Shipley continued their dominance and this team looks focused not to stumble this year. Iowa, however, after a few close games lost their starting quarterback and loss their first game of the year to Northwestern and now are in a Big Ten race. They go to Ohio State with the Big Ten on the line this week. Oregon was rolling since their opening loss, but they got a smack in the mouth by Stanford last week. The Cardinal outscored the Ducks in a points-fest. Stanford is a serious team this year and looks good going up against USC this week and Oregon now has to regroup cause they can still in the Pac-10.

In a very good ACC battle, Wake Forest pushed Georgia Tech to the brink and brought the game into overtime before the Yellow Jackets sealed the win and look very good in terms of their chances to win the ACC. TCU looks extremely dominant as they barely broke a sweat against San Diego State while Utah barely had much trouble with New Mexico. The two (TCU and Utah) will meet this week in a huge game for both teams. TCU's BCS hopes rest in getting past Utah. Florida took care of business against Vanderbilt and are looking to win out and have the SEC title game already locked up. Houston prevailed again against a good team in Tulsa. And in a primetime Big East clash, Connecticut gave it their all for a third straight week, but it was not enough to get past Cincinnati, who looked to be on their way to rout, but found themselves in a close battle in the fourth quarter.

In terms of my top 5 matchups picks, I went 3-2 this past week and after ten weeks I'm 36-14 on the year. Clemson and Florida State were locked in good battle for the first half of the game, but then HB CJ Spiller of Clemson took over the game and Clemson pulled away and added another tough loss to Florida State's year. Clemson has been playing as good as anyone in the ACC in recent weeks and has a chance to still win the division if they keep playing well enough. USC did not look very good again on offense, but did enough good things to put away Arizona State. They didn't play as well as they could of and best be on guard against Stanford this week. Oklahoma's bad season continued as they could not get off plays and struggled to move the ball as a slightly overrated Nebraska team took care of business in a matchup of traditional Big 12 winners. Both don't look very good, but a win is still a win for Nebraska while Oklahoma is in danger of not making a bowl this year.

In the first of two big matches of the weekend, Ohio State dominated what many thought was a really good Penn State team. The Nittany Lions' two losses to Iowa and Ohio State eliminate any BCS hopes and chances to win the Big Ten. They were outplayed in all phases at home. Not the way Joe Paterno wanted to game to go. Ohio State has not especially good a couple times, but they get it done when they need to. They now have Iowa this week for the Big Ten title. The SEC main event featuring LSU at Alabama lived up to everything it was expected to be. The two switched leads and battled in a low scoring defensive battle. Alabama's offensive had a little more firepower and walked away with a huge win to clinch the SEC West. LSU has two losses. Both were in the SEC and they were to Florida and Alabama; the two teams playing for the SEC title. Tough break for the Tigers.

Now turning to this week's slate of games that might be worth watching/feature a team or teams with something on the line:

Tuesday Night:
Ohio at Buffalo: This should one could turn into a shootout with two fairly even teams.

Wednesday Night:
Toledo at Central Michigan: Central Michigan has looked very good this year and their QB, Dan LeFevour, has been putting on a display of his skills all year.

Thursday Night:
Bowling Green at Miami (OH): Should be a fairly close one between two average teams.

Ball State at Northern Illinois: These two have the capability to turn this one into a shootout.

No. 24 South Florida at Rutgers: Rutgers has had South Florida's number in recent years. This one should be a good one in primetime. Both teams have something to prove.

Temple at Akron: Temple has launched onto the scene this year and should continue their winning trend against Akron.

Sunday Night:
East Carolina at Tulsa: These two have had pretty good success in recent years. This one is a fairly good matchup for Sunday night.

No. 3 Texas at Baylor: Texas should be able to avoid stumbling against Baylor. Shouldn't even be close.

No. 7 Georgia Tech at Duke: Duke has upset a few teams this year and has a punchers chance to play for the ACC title. A win here would put them right in the driver's seat. That might be easier said then done though.

No. 15 Houston at UCF: Houston and QB Case Keenum have had a good 2009 season thus far. They still have an outside chance at a BCS bowl if they run the table. This could be a good challenge for them.

Tennessee at Mississippi: Mississippi entered the season with high expectations and haven't completely lived up to them. The team and QB Jevan Sneed have not played as well as they hoped. While Tennessee entered with more talk than necessary, but under a new direction especially on defense; they have played competitive even in losses. Should be a good SEC battle.

Idaho at No. 6 Boise State: Boise State still controls their BCS destiny and should be able to clear this hurdle.

No. 1 Florida at South Carolina: Steve Spurrier heads up against his former team. Florida is still on their collision course with Alabama and definitely shouldn't overlook the Gamecocks who have already upset Mississippi this year.

No. 2 Alabama at Mississippi State: Alabama should be able to get by Mississippi State, but the Bulldogs have been a tough team to put away at times this year. Mississippi State is coached by former Gator offensive coordinator, Billy Mullen, and could have extra motivation to hand Alabama its first loss.

Texas Tech at No. 19 Oklahoma State: These two have high powered offenses and might give us an offensive show. Oklahoma State still has BCS aspirations and a loss here could strike them down.

Arizona State at No. 13 Oregon: Oregon has rebounded very nicely since the opening loss to Boise State and everything that transpired after the game. They now can control their BCS and Rose Bowl destiny and need to avoid an upset this week.

Now my top 5 matchups for Week 11:
5) Notre Dame at Pittsburgh: Notre Dame has slowly been in free fall after what looked like a strong start. Pittsburgh and their freshman HB, Dione Lewis, have looked very good and have a great chance to be the Big East champions. These two rivals have a lot of lose this week and it will show Saturday night. Pick: Pittsburgh

4) Stanford at No. 9 USC: USC has dominated the Pac-10 for much of the tenure of Pete Carroll and look to rap up another Rose Bowl birth and even a possible title game birth if they get lucky. Stanford and HB Toby Gerhart have played well this year and could spring the upset. They knocked off the Trojans a couple years ago, can they do it again? Jim Harbaugh has this team in the right mindset. It should be close. Pick: USC

3) Friday Night: No. 25 West Virginia at No. 5 Cincinnati: This a big time Big East matchup. Cincinnati has been running the table and West Virginia still has a very talented team. Cincinnati can eliminate West Virginia essentially from the Big East title picture and keep their national title hopes alive with an impressive win. Pick: Cincinnati

2) No. 10 Iowa at No. 11 Ohio State: This game in a nutshell is for the Big Ten title. The winner will be smelling roses and the loser still has a great shot at a BCS bowl. It should definitely be a close one. Iowa will have a back up at quarterback and that could be the difference. Pick: Ohio State

1) No. 16 Utah at No. 4 TCU: This a big matchup. I don't care if you like big name teams or not. If you like college football, then this game has the most excitement around it this week. TCU has national title game hopes and needs to keep winning. Utah has been a very good team and beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl a year ago. Utah still has an outside shot a BCS bowl to play for. TCU can make a statement against a team that is as good as Utah. Pick: TCU