The Blog....

Will be back full-time after the New Year...

Here are some thoughts before then :

1. Where was that Eagles team we saw verse New Orleans all season???
2. I hate to say I told you so about Stewert Bradley...But...um...well, I did.
3. Phillies are making me feel a little better...still need more pitching and a 3B.
4. Flyers are falling apart...they need Gagne back bad and Biron needs a rest.
5. I actualy have interest in the Sixers....I think they can be interesting soon.
6. I think all 4 teams in Philly make the playofss in 2008-2009.
7. I am looking forward to NCAA hoops.
8. This WVU coaching serch is KILLING ME...
9. Brian Westbrook is good...just figured I tell you.
10. Phillies are the favorites in the NL East.
11. Sixers should keep Andre Miller.
12. Sixers or Flyers...I am leaning...Sixers...
13. Eagles...McNabb...he'll be back.
14. 5 Eagles who wont be back...Kearse, Howard, LJ Smith, Takeo Spikes, Will James...
15. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Fell free to post your thoughts!

Talk to you on the radio....

Rollins the MVP...And some offseason concerns

Congrats to Jimmy Rollins for winning the NL MVP award. He is the second Phillies player in a row to win the award and the Phillies need to build on this. I for one think Rollins deserved the award..Holliday had a great season, Rollins a historic one, my vote goes to Rollins for that reason.

While I am very happy for Rollins I am not sure he can have the same type of season again and if he doesnt have that type of season, do the Phillies win the division again...probably not.

The Phillies are going for pitching, pitching and more pitching (though have only gotten Brad Lidge so far) but I think their offense will suffer.

Think about this...last year the Phillies pen was horrible.

It consisted of: (2007)
Madsen, Romero, Gordon and Myers.

This offseason so far here is the pen now (2008)
Madsen, Romero, Gordon and Lidge

All they have done to the pen is switch Myers with Lidge...is the pen really better ?

I know the Rotation is better with Myers...but I was never sold on him as a great starter....just an OK one.

Offensivly, it will be tough for Rollins to duplicate what he did, now I expect they will be losing Rowand, thats a lot of production the Phillies are losing.

Think about it...

Last seasons line-up: This season so far looks like this:

1. Rollins 1. Rollins
2. Victorino 2. Victorino
3. Utley 3. Utley
4. Howard 4. Howard
5. Rowand 5. Burrell
6. Burrell 6. Werth/Snelling
7. Helms/Dobbs 7. Helms/Dobbs
8. Ruiz/Coste 8. Ruiz/Coste

Is this years line-up going to produce as many runs as last years? Now way, but are they going to be able to get enough pitching to make sure they dont have to...I dont think so.

Here are some other questions to ponder...

This is Pat Burrell's last season under his current contract. If Burrell has the same season he did during the second half of last year and hits say .285 with 35 home runs and 115 RBI...Do you re-sign him again and roll the dice?

If it comes comes down to re-signing Rowand or signing another pitcher either a starter or reliver (maybe Hiroki Kuroda) which one would you sign?

Are the Phillies going to assume Adam Eaton will be ready and if he is are they going to assume he is going to be better then last season?

Thats just some...more to come...talk to you on the radio....

Eagles - Pats

Well, the game is almost here. Three years ago this was for the Super Bowl...boy how far have the Eagles fallen since. In 2005, the Eagles failed to make the playoffs, in 2006 the Eagles needed a shot in the arm from Jeff Garcia to help win six in a row to win the NFC East. Now in 2007, the Eagles playoff chances are on life support with maybe the best team in the history of the game looming.

Here are thoughts on the game:

1. McNabb will not play - A.J. Feely will make his first start of the season for the Eagles and sadly he might give the Eagles a better chance to win the game (maybe 2% chance as opposed to 0% with McNabb0 and here's why. Andy Reid for some reason refuses to allows McNabb to run the ball and Brian Westbrook is the best player by far on the field for the Eagles even with McNabb on the field, Westbrook is the best player on the field, give him as many touches as you can.

2. Q. Mikell is out, J.R. Reed will start - This is the worst news the Eagles could have gotten. I would play Sheldon Brown at safety and take my chances with Will James and Hansen at CB. But Reed is not a real safety and you know the Pats will target him right off the bat. If the Pats run the ball 15-20 times during the game I would be surprised.

3. Pressure - The Eagles have to get pressure on Brady, but they havent been able to get it on anybody elsek, which gives me no reason to believe they can vs. New England. Javon Kearse will return this week after getting a week to rest up, maybe he gives them a little spark, but I doubt it. If I am Jim Johnson, I send Gocong and Spikes all day, let Gaither hanlde Ben Watson and hope Bunkley and Patterson can generate some pressue up the middle. If they can get pressure up the middle that should take the double team off Cole and give him a chance to get some pressure. Also sending Gocong and Spikes should give the ends more freedom. Forget the run...dont even try to think about stopping it, cause I doubt New England is even thinkning about using it. PRESSURE, PRESSURE, PRESSURE is your only shot on D.

Other then that, I really dont have a lot to add, I dont think the Eagles have much of a shot in this game and I never really have that feeling. I always think the Eagles under Andy have been a well prepared team with the talent to compete with anyone in the league. I am losing that feeling and I think this one gets ugly..I hope I am wrong...but.

New Eangland 52 - Eagles 17

Here is a question....if the Eagles win, do you believe they are a NFC contender again ?

Wo will be remembered more ?

Today on the show, we got into an interesting discussion about some past and present Philadlephia Stars. We looked at Former Flyers Eric Lindros, former Sixer Allen Iverson and current Eagle Donovan McNabb.

Which one of these guys will be remrmber more for doing the most with their respective team?

Eric Lindros - The top overall pick in the 1991 NHL draft came to the Flyers with HUGE expectations. The Flyers gave away most of their franchise to Qubec (which became the Colorado Avalance)to get Lindros and early on he pretty much was a dominate force in the league, leading the Flyers to the 1997 Stanley Cup Finals. He was named the leagues MVP in 1995 (a short season) and played in six all-star games. But how will he be remebered here in Philadelphia?

Allen Iverson - The top overall pick in the 1996 NBA draft the "Answer" was supposed to bring excitment back into a morbid franchise that could never re-build after losing Charles Barkley. The interesting similarity here is that the Sixers had an undersized power forward in Barkely had never figued out how to build around him. Now they draft an under-sized shooting guard and never quite figured out how to build around him either. He was later traded away for pretty much Andre Miller and a few picks. He made one NBA Final apperence and also won an NBA MVP Award. How will Iverson be remembered by the Philadelphia fans ?

Donovan McNabb - The number 2 pick in the 199 NFL draft has led the Eagles to the NFC Title game four times and the Super Bowl once. However, he never has won over the fans of Philadelphia and many people still want him out. A took over a team that was in bad shape before he became the starting quarterbak taking over for Doug Pederson. Since he took over the team, the Eagles have been a constant contender in the NFC and have frequently beena Super Bowl pick by the national media. Do the Philly fans appreciate what he brings to this team or are they to hard on him?

Overall what player did the most for their team, who will be remember more by the fans of Philadelphia?

Think about it and send me an e-mail

mike@1450espn.com or leave a comment here.

Talk to you on the radio....

Eagles 33 - Skins 25

Eagles stayed alive for another week as predicted. i thought they showed a lot of character to come back in that game and might have a little fight left in them still. With Miami on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how many people will be cheering them on to get to 5-5.

Here is how I see the rest of the schedule playing out.

vs Miami - W 5-5 - The Eagles at home, just cant be the first team Miami beats, thought they are getting closer every week to winning a game.

at New England - L 5-6 - Does there have to really be an explanation here.

vs Seattle - W 6-6 - I think Seattle stinks, though they came into Philly on a Monday night in 2005 and blew the Birds doors off. They also went to the Super Bowl that season - they wont win this game or get back to the Super Bowl.

vs NYG - W 7-6 - The Eagles at home in the divison in December usually means good things. This is the time of year when the Giants seem to have issues. If the Eagles want to make the playoffs an upset as to happen somewhere. How aboput at home vs a NFC foe.

at Dallas - L 7-7 - Dallas is just a better team this season, not much more to say about it.

at New Orleans - W 8-7 - Re-match as the Eagles needing a win this week more then the Saints who lost a huge chance to get back in the picture with a loss to the Rams.

vs. Buffalo - W 9-7 - The Bills are just what the doctor order for a final week match-up. TRhey play good D, but cant move the ball a lick and they come to Philly on the second to last day of the year.

9-7, is that going to be good enough. I doubt it and to get to 9-7 will be a chore. I dont see any playoffs this season but in this NFL you never know. Am I saying they can make the playoffs and make a run to the Super Bowl. No, this isnt the year to be a fan of any team other then New England. They are the most clear-cut favorite to win it since the Dallas teams of the mid-90's.

I'll be at Chickies's and Pete's today with Omar Gaither...talk to you on the radio....

Eagles 10 steps to get better...

The Eagles are not all that far off, here are 10 ways to get back faster:
(In no particular order)

1. Release Javon Kearse. I liked the shot they took on him, but it didnt work. His injury last season cost them a few games, but he hasnt returned to form and never really has been the dominator he was as a rookie.

2. Release Darren Howard. It was out of character that the Eagles signed a aging FA player to begin with, but they thought they were close. They were wrong and he has been horrible. Admit you made a mistake and get rid of this bum.

3. Move Kevin Curtis into the slot. Curtis had his best seasons as the slot man in STL, but here is he the best WR that the Eagles have. But just beacuse he is thebest WR why does he have to play out of position. Thats like taking Ryan Howard and putting him at 3B. Play him at his best position, the slot and you'll get more consistent production from him and open the middle more for Reggie Brown.

4. Let's see Stewart Bradley. He made plays in the preseason and Spikes isnt making any plays. I'll keep Omar and Gocong where they are..but I am replacing Spikes (who will be gone next season) with Bradley now, see if the kid can play (I think he can).

5. Sit Jamal Jackson - He came in overweight and its time to shake this line up a bit. They came in with the thought that they were a top level unit. Right now, I think this unit has gotten to complacent and maybe a sit-down is what is needed up-front. Sit Jackson, send a message and he'll be better for it down-the-road.

6. Run the Ball. This team got on a roll last season, not beacuse they has Jeff Garcia, but beacuse they ran the ball. They will tell you that they are running the ball but they would be lying right to your face. And running the ball doesnt have to be all Westbrook. Corell Buckhalter is actually a pretty good running back - just give him the ball 8-10 times so we can see it. Westbrook is great, but most teams have a good second fiddle, the Eagles do to, but they dont use it enough.

7. Get a new Kick off man. Cause Buckhalter stinks at this position. He should be removed ASAP (and running the ball more), there arent many options on the current roster, but someone has to be better then Buck. Its not like a punt return, nobody is flying down at you looking to take your head off. Give the fastest guy you have a shot.

8. The secondary needs a shake-up. Will James...sit. Joselio Hanson, please stand. This kid has impressed and James has been pretty ordinary. Its nice to see Q-Mike in the mix now full-time. B-Dawk isnt the same B-Dawk and Lito isnt the same Lito both due to injury. Sheldon Brown is playing pretty good football, but lets take a look at Nick Graham soon.

9. Start sending thr house. This team needs to get that aggressivness back. Like Dupree tells Carl in You, Me and Dupree. You need that "Ness" and the Eagles dont have it. Blitz, send the house, if your going to get beat, let the QB know your coming. Gocong led the nation in sacks in collge, let him loose. Lin him up on the same side as Trent Cole and let them go after the QB. Line-up Bradley on the other side behind Juqua Thomas and let them go after the QB. Omar is solid in the middle but the outsdie guys need to rush the passer more.

10. New Punt returner please. Reno 911 was a week to late. Now the Eagles need a guy who can help them win the field position battle. Reno is a nice guy, but they birds need new life back there.

these are 10 ways to help get the Eagles back into the playoffs ASAP.

Phillies get Lidge

The Phillies just made a pretty major deal with the Astos and old friend Ed Wade.

Phillies get : Brade Lidge and Eric Bruntlett
Astros get : Michael Bourn, Geoff Geary and Michael Costanzo.

My take is this - This allows the Phillies to move Lidge into the closer role and move Brett Myers back into the starting rotation and into the #2 spot in the Phillies rotation. It also gives the Phillies a versitile utility man that can play just about every position on the field. The Phils lose a lot of speed by giving up Bourn, but he was the right guy to give up over Victorino. Geary is a washed-up middle innings guy who can replaced without a problem. Costanzo is the interesting piece here. He was a top prospect for the Phillies and had some decent power numbers at AA- Reading. However, he stuckout a lot and wasnt moving along as fast as the Phillies had hoped, he is 24 years old. Overall, I like the deal. My main concern - what if Lidge melts down here like he did in Houston, the fans wount be so nice and then what, move Myers back to the pen...we'll see. This is the first piece in what should be a very different looking bullpen next season.

Phillies current staff :
1. Cole Hamels
2. Brett Myers
3. Kyle Kendrick
4. Jamie Moyer
5. Adam Eaton

Set-Up - Tom Gordon
Closer - Bradd Lidge

After this week, it gets interesting.

Listen in every Monday at 6:40, Wednesday at 6:05 and Thursday at 5:20 for Phillies updates all winter long. Phillies beat writers Steven Miller and Scott Lauber plus Phillies columnist John Finger give us the updates.

Talk to you on the radio....

Eagles lose 38-17 to Dallas...

I am pretty disgusted with this game tonight. I really had a gut feeling that they would win this game. However, I will have more on this tomorrow and def will have somethign by the time I get to C & P for the show.

A few quick thoughts:

- How many screen passes and flat passes did they throw ? Was it all 46 of McNabbs attemps or just 42 of them. They didnt take a shot down the field all night.

- The got flat out beat-up on the O and D lines.

- Run the ball...Hello. Westbrook 4.1 yards per carry and yet, still they dont run the ball.

- I wish TO was back.

- Marion barber is really good, he runs (imagine that running the ball opens things up for TO)hard.

- Good do see B-Dawk back, he didnt play all to well though.

- Bunkley...is he getting tired/

- They signed Curtis and Brown long term...that stinks. And it stinks to be Kevin Kolb, he'll never have a shot with these WR or if they wont run the ball for him.

- More tomorrow...bed time.....

Talk to you on the radio....

Eagles - Cowboys, How I see it...

Well its Dallas week, and I am pumped and ready for what should be a great game tonight.

Here is how I see it:

This is another must win for the Eagles. And I am going to come right out and say, I think they will win it and here is how and why.

1. The Eagles will exploit the main weakness that the Cowboys have - their pass defense stinks. After weeks of knocking on the door in the red zone, this is the week they finally kick in that door. Look for the Eagles, who know the Cowboys players very well, to exploit the safety area and look for Kevin Curtis to score a long TD tonight.

2. The Eagles have always done a great job of shutting down TO and I am pretty confident that thier run defense will do a fine job of keeping Marion Barber and Julius Jones in check (hey if you can shut down Adrian Peterson, you got my vote of confidence).

3. Gocong and Gaither - I think Jason Whitten is a huge key here, but the Eagles linebackers have done a pretty good job of taking the TE out of the game. The Vikings did get a TD from their TE positon last week, but that had more to do with the Eagles really trying to shut down Peterson.

4. I just dont think the Eagles can afford to lose this game and they know that. Even if they win, its not a 100% that they are making the playoffs, but I just think this is a better team then we have seen up to this point and we are seeing pieces of that each week. At home, Sunday night, TO is back....Eagles win.

Eagles 23 - Cowboys 17.

Talk to you on the radio...

Real good sports day...

Today was a real good sports days and a day of firsts.

Leading off, I did the play-by-play of the Holy Spirit - St. Joe game in Hammonton. Went pretty much as I expected, Spirit beat the Wildcats 48-7 and it could have been worse. The loss was the first time the Wildcats had lost in 37 games. What a tremendous run for coach Paul Sacco and his program, but it was stopped by the same team that last beat them; Holy Spirit. Give Holy Spirit Head Coach Bill Walsh credit. His team was sloppy early, but they settled down and took care of business. They were the better team and they showed it, the only question is left for them is, can they finnaly win that state title? They will have home-fiel;d advantge now beacuse of this win.

Next, sitting first at the Philadium, then in the Sixers media room watching Navy beat Notre Dame...first time in 44 years. LOVE IT! And everyone in the room loved it to.

As I write this, I am sitting at the Sixers game with producer Matt Martucci, Pete Thompson from NBC40 and a host of others at the opener. As you can see in an earlier blog, I am not to optimistic about this season, but beating the Bulls in Chicago shows me there is somethign there. Will the make the playoffs? Doubt it...but they might not be as bad as we thought. BTW...I really like Reggie Evans, he plays hard.

Random thoughts....

- Crowd isnt to bad...but its the opener, its going to be EMPTY in there this season at the Wachovia for the Sixers games.

- There was over 4000 people in attendence at the HSHS-St. Joe game.

- While eating dinner tonight, we sat next to maybe the greatest table of guys cheering agaisnt Notre Dame. It was classic South Philly.

- Check back later for my Eagles preview...I am going to write that at halftime of the Sixers game.

Also...check out the show Monday live from Chickie's and Pete's for the Chris Gocong show from 7-8

Sixers Preview

Well the Sixers 2007-2008 season is here and there isnt not a lot of optimism around the area. I spoke to Sixers beat writer Tom Moore from www.phillyburbs.com on the show today and he wasnt very optimistic either. I will give you some of my thoughts and sprinkle in some of the insight that Tom gave today as well if you missed the segment.

'The Mike Gill Show" Sixers Preview:

- Point Guard - The point-guard spot is a an interesting spot on this team. They have one of the better point guard in the league with Andre Miller but the wild-card here is Louis Williams he had a tremendous summer but will he get the time in the regular season that he needs to put the ball in the basket...this remains to be seen. I wonder how much time head coach Mo Cheeks will give Williams at the point, or will we end up seeing him more at the already crowded two-guard spot. Vetern Kevin Ollie is there to provide some leadership and could be traded.

OVERALL : B

- Shooting Guard - The big question here is how consistent will the two-guard spot be with Willie Green and Rodney Carney. I would much rather see Andre Iguodala play the two-spot and get a defensive minded small-forward but it is what it is I guess. I am not a huge fan of Carney but if he can double his 6.6 scoring average from last season then I guess thats progress, but he needs to be able to hit from the floor better then he has shown, he could be trade bait as well. Green is a streaky scorer who they paid way to much money for, but he can score and could become a trade piece if he shows he can score on a nightly basis. Louis Williams might be in the two-guard mix as well.

OVERALL: C-

- Small Forward - Andre Igodala is now the face of the franchise, but I like what Tom Moore said today on the show..can he play at the level he did when Iverson was gone for a full 82 games and become a max-contact player that he wants to be paid like. I have no problem paying him max money, is he is a max money player. Right now I am not sure he is. Sharp-shooter Kyle Korver will get his 25 minutes and slide Andre to the two spot, but Cheeks needs t be able to cut Korvers minutes down and turn him into more of a role player not a major players which on this team he is. Rookie Thaddeus Young was a surprise pick that many people seem to like...three years down the road. Tom Moore said right now he is the 10th on a 12-man roster, which means, he wont play a whole lot. Iguodala is clearly the only guy here, you might see Carney get some minutes at the three-spot but expect Andre to play about 30-35 minutes a night here with Korver getting the rest of the minutes at the three.

OVERALL : B

- Power Forward - This is one of the three positions that the Sixers are below average at, with Reggie Evans starting, they have a guy who can do the dirty work (which they have needed) but he cant do anything else. He wont score a lick and who knows if he can give you more then 20-25 minutes per night. He never has in the past. Rookie Jason Smith is a seven-footer who will be asked to spell Evans some nights but will also be asked to play some center as well. The hard-working Louis Amundson was a bright spot at the summer leagues but he is a journeyman who will have to prove he can play meaningful NBA minutes. Rookie Herbert Hill is a rugged guy I like, but had knee surgey and might miss sometime early in the season that might hinder his progress.

OVERALL : C -

- Center - Samuel Dalembert is the man-in-the-middle here. I have never been a big fan going back to when I covered him at Seton Hall, but he does have some potential. However, he is entering the season hurt and I cant trust that he will make it through 100% healthy. Other then Dalembert, the Sixers really dont have an option at center. Calvin Booth was signed in the offseason, but talking to Tom Moore on the show he said Booth cant give you more then 2-3 minutes at a time. Jason Smith and Herbert Hill are both rookies that are better suited at the forward spot. This might be the worst position on the team.

OVERALL : D

- Bench - Kyle Korver will be the top guy off the bench and thats not saying much. There isnt a whole lot here. When he enters the game Andre Iguodala will slide over to the two-spot but there is some depth at the SG/SF position but its not all that good. Carney will see some minutes off the bench as will Williams but neither of their roles are very defined at this time. The rookies wont contribute to much, Jason Smith will provide the most numbers-wise off the bench but dont get to excited. Amundson and Hill are to blue-collar guys who will bang but dont provide much else. T. Young is going to have a tough time getting regular minutes and Booth is brutal as the reserve center. Kevin Ollie and Shavlikm Randolph will provide some vertern depth but dont get to excited.

OVERALL : D

Starting Line-Up (predictions)

PG - Andre Miller (13.5pts, 4.3 rebs, 7.8 assists)
SG - Willie Green (9.9, 2.3, 2.1)
C - Samuel Dalembert (11.1, 6.1, 2.1 blks)
PF - Reggie Evans (2.5, 11.1, 0.9)
SF - Andre Iguodala (22.7, 4.1, 6.1)

6th man - Kyle Korver (11.1, 3.3, 2.1)
RSF/RSG - Rodney Carney (8.0, 2.0, 2.2)
RC, RF - Jason Smith - (4.1, 3.1, 0.3)
RG - Louis Williams - (5.8, 1.0, 2.0)

Record : 30-52 Last in the Atlantic

Sorry Sixer fans...I am not very optimistic either...your thoughts ?

Talk to you on the radio....

Lowell back to Boston ?

With the way Mike Lowell played during the World Series, dont be surprised if the Red Sox bring him back. He is one name that the Phillies seem to be interested in bringing in, but after winning the MVP of the World Series Sunday Night, I think the Sox realize how valuable a guy like Lowell is compared to A-Rod.

The Phillies also seem to be on the outside looking in on J.C. Romero. Many Phillies scribes seemed to think this was going to bea slam dunk that he came back. But Romero knows what a lefty on the FA market this season is worth, loyalty goes nowhere in this business.

I am not very optmistic that the Phillies are going to be able to make the moves needed this offseason to better themselves, and losing Lowell from the FA market would be a blow, cause the pickings at 3B arent great and A-Rod aint coming here.

My feelings are the Phillies will pull off some sort of trade that they will try to spin off as "this guys if he plays everyday will be able to do this...." Kind of like, "If Wes Helms plays everyday he might win the MVP" that they tried to convince us of last offseason.

Also, for some reason, the name Al Reyes keeps jumping into my head, I am not feeling him at all, but thats the Phillies...a 35 year old guy who closed on a bad team and make him the set-up guy...but then he comes here and goes from set-up to mop-up, just my hunch.

Talk to you on the radio...

Eagles - Vikings re-cap

Well, we called it a 'must win" and they got it done. It wasnt pretty, but they got the job done, scoring two TD's in five red-zone trips (which needs to be better).

Here are my thoughts:

Quarterback - McNabb played probably his best game of the season other then the Lions game. However, all I can think of was that missed chance in the 1st quarter when he missed L.J. Smith in the back of the end zone. Overall, there were signs that he is getting more and more confident in his game. If he can continue to improve, the Eagles can get back into this race.

Running Game - I was somewhat dissapointed that they Eagles didnt run the ball better, but I kind of had the feeling with as good as Minnesota's run defense was, that would be the case. But they did manage to use Westbrook still and I loved what I saw from both in the pass game and on the ground - even with the low YPC.

Passing game - Other then the over-thrown ball to Smith in the end zone, the passing game was pretty effective. I thought Reggie Brown would be a factor with LJ back and he was - 8 catches for 105 yards. Kevin Curtis again had a nice game and caught a slant that has been his go-to route. On the downside, the tight end still didnt contribute.

Defense - I wasn't overly impressed with the defense epically because the Vikings are such a one dimensional team. I think they did a nice job verse the run but they still didnt have that big play, turnover that we have been looking for all season.

Trent Cole was a one-man beast, he had one of the better games I have seen a DE play in a long time. The linebackers had a good game, Chris Gocong and Omar Gaither continue to impress, Gocong led the team in tackles with 8. We also saw Javon Kearse get a pretty big sack with about four-minutes left in the game. But he still hasnt had a very good season. I hope B-Dawk can come back for the Dallas game, he would provide a big lift and maybe get them that turnover we keep looking for.

Special teams - The punting game was better, Sav looks like he is finding his groove and had his second straight solid week of punting. Reno Mahe did was he is asked to do, caught the ball. But he really doesnt provide any threat to score. The kick return game is brutal but I thought the coverage teams did well verse a pretty good kick return unit.

Overall, it was a win and in this season thats all you can ask for. Was it pretty...not at all, but baby steps were taken and they did get into the end zone...twice. I predicted 23-13, and I was close but basically the game went pretty much as I thought. Lets hope Donovan can progress even more for next week verse Dallas.

See you at Chickie's and Pete's for the Omar Gaither Show...

Eagles - Vikings...How I see it.

(2-4) Philadelphia Eagles @ (2-4) Minnesota Vikings, Sunday at 1pm FOX at the Metrodome.

Well, the word "Must-win" is used a lot in a season that isnt going the you thought. When your season is starting to spiral out-of-control you use "must-win" to make yourself feel like this game is important. If the Eagles win this game though...are thehy really back in it?

I actully think they are and here is why. I still think this team is good enough on defesne to carry them to at least 3-4 more wins. And just by accident if you move the ball up and down the field like their offense does, they have to get into the end-zone at some point, and if they do that another 3-4 wins. Thats at least six more wins if the ifs happen.

So here is how I see it Sunday:

1. The Eagles will throw the ball in this game, the Vikings will are not a very good pass rushing team and they arent very good in the secondary. If LJ Smith comes back he will help and I see Reggie Brown having a decent game if LJ is back.

2. The Vikings have a very good running game, but with Brad Childress, they dont use it enough. Childress is a Andy Reid guy and he wants to beat Reid at his own game - throwing the football. The Eagles arent great verse the pass, but the Vikings have less weapons at WR then the Eagles do.

3. The Vikings stop the run very well, the Eagles are a good running team so expect to see Westbrook get the call on the screen pass a lot.

4. The Adrian Peterson factor. Last week the Birds kicked away from Devin Hester all week, this week Peterson will be back returning kicks, the Eagles coverage units better be up for the callange.

5. Finally, I dont think the Vikings are as talented as the Eagles. They have poor WR, QB and no TE. Expect the Eagles offesne to finally bust out and their talent will win this one.

Eagles 23 - Vikings 13

Flyers begin a 16-day, 8-game road trip

Talked to Flyers play-by-play voice Tim Saunders on the show on Tuesday, he said this trip will teach us a lot about the Flyers and if they are for real.

Here is some other points he made in the interview:

- He thinks the Flyers can win the Atlantic Division

- Said this is definitly a playoff team

- Thinks Forsberg coming back is a good thing

- Said Biron is a top level goalie, he just hasnt had a chance playing behind Hasek and Ryan Miller in Buffalo.

- The the defense is fine they just need some time to mesh, but isnt worried about the amount of shots they have given up.

Good info from Tim, looking forward to having him on the show more often.

Talk to you on the radio....

Eagles - Bears re-cap.

Is Andy Falling Asleep on the Job?


BRUTAL.





I put this loss directly on Andy Reid. As I watched this game, I just kept asking, why arent they using Brian Westbrook more, where is Westbrook, why do they contiune to throw the ball every down. This game was lost, due to the coaching staff.





The fact that Westbrook in a game that close had only 11 touches is just unexplainable. Its obvious that the Eagles offense is extremly poor at this point and to not put the ball in Westbrooks hands as many times as possible is idiotic.





It might be time to sit Donovan McNabb. I have been the biggest McNabb supporter, but he made at least 3-4 throws that I recall that should have resulted in big plays and didnt. He is playing scared and him playing scared is causing this team to fail.





This game wasnt lost due to the inabilty to run the ball or the WR inabilty to get open. It was lost due to the two faces of this franchise over the last nine seasons and their inabilty to compete at the same level they did 3 or 4 seasons ago.





Was there anything wrong with the 4.9 yards per carry the Eagles had during the game? Meanwhile they decided to throw the ball 34 times at 6.6 yards per pass...BRUTAL. I have never coached an football game ever, but if I did I'D continue to run the ball if I was peeling off almost 5 yards per attempt.





And if I am going to throw the ball, I have a new idea. I am putting Kevin Curtis in the slot where he belongs and giving Hank Baskett or Jason Avant the starting spot on the outside. And oh yeah, the tight end position has been abysmal, so here is an idea, keep them in to block and run the ball.





On the defensive side of the ball, it was the same story. The D played well, but didnt make the big play and gave up over 300 yards passing to Brian Griese who is...you guessed it BRUTAL.





No enough pressure and no big plays, thats been the story for this D. They have played well and giving up just one TD is another great game but they gave up a 97-yard TD in the final 2-minutes of the game that sealed the deal. I applaud them for playing a good game, but it would have been great if it made one play in that final drive.





Hester wasnt a factor, but beacuse of it they bears kept getting a short field.





In the end, the stats say the Eagles should have won this game, but the stats lied and the Andy and his staff failed.





2-4 onto Minnesota with the season on the line.








see you at Chickie's and Pete's and talk to you on the radio....

Eagles - Bears...How I see it.

(2-4) Chicago bears at (2-3) Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA - 4:15 FOX

1. Run the ball - Might be the most important thing to do in order to beat a pretty depleted Bears team. The Eagles have an advantage up front and they must exploit it.

2. Dont forget about the pass - I think the Bears secondary can be beat, but you dont have to over do it. Let the run set up the pass and Donovan should have a huge day against a D that is really on the ropes right now.

3. Force a turnover - The defense has played really well, but they still need to force that big turnover and put the offense in good position to score. Brian Greise has played better then Rex Grossman but still isnt a top level NFL QB. The Bears offensive line is beat up right now, hopefully the D-Line can apply enough pressure so the blitz isnt needed and the coverage can give Greise some problems.

4. Limit Hester's touches - Punt over his head and into the end zone. Sav Rocca has struggled with consistency, this game isnt the game for that. Hester is the real deal and and so far Rocca hasnt been.

5. Overall, I think the Bears are struggling more with confidence then the Eagles are and that should be the difference in the game and the fact thats its at home, I like the Eagles in the game.

The Pick : Eagles 24 - Bears 10

Flyers

Watched the Flyers game (third game in a row that I watched from start to finish) and I am really impressed again with Martin Biron. I said many times that he was a huge pick-up last season in a lost season, but in that lost season they really found something they had been missing...a #1 goalie.
I really thought he just needed a chance, he never got that in Buffalo. I think the Flyers need to rest him sometime next week, but he is def. playing at a level that can win a playoff series.

In beating the Hurricanes, the Flyers beat a very good team and it is looking more and more like this Flyers team is for real. they do have a tough stretch of road games coming up and we might really learn a lot about this team. But after a hard-fought 3-2 OT win over a quality team like Carolina I am starting to think this team is more then just a playoff team, but a team that can go deep into the playoffs.

Talk to you on the radio...

Sportsradio 950...

I got a call from Sportsradio 950 in Philly and they have asked me to fill-in a few days this week.

So you now have 2 chances to hear me on Thurs and FRI.

- I will be on ESPN 1450 from 4-7 on Thursday and from 7-11, I will be on Sportsradio 950 with Geoff Harbaugh after the Jody Mac show.

- On Friday, I will be on ESPN 1450 from 4-7 and then 7-9 I will be on Sportsradio 950 with Geoff Harbaugh after the Jody Mac Show. This is a great honor hope you will all listen in to the show.

You can listen online at www.sr950.com and of course always at www.1450espn.com

WED SHOW

I'll be at Atlantic tomorrow...Hingston and Tilton in EHT.

4:40 - John Brittain of the Hard Ball Times will tell us who he thinks is the NL All-Star team...plus can the Red Sox come back and who will win the World Series.

5:20 - KC Joyner of www.thefootballscientist.com gives us his evaluation on week 6 of the NFL and takes our first look ahead to week 7.

6:05 - Phillies beat writer Scott Lauber of the Delaware News Journal shares his thoughts on the 2008 Phillies offseason. Is Aaron Rowand worth $14-Million per season, Scott gives us his opinion.

Plus we will register more people for a VIP table for the Chris Gocong Show!!!

Talk to you on the radio....

Building the 2008 Phillies

It's been a little over a week since the Phillies were swept away by the Rockies in the NLDS and I have given plenty of thought on how to keep them a contender.

1. Make sure you get a CF - If the reports that are out there are true about the money Aaron Rowand was looking for (Mike Radano reported on our show that he was looking for about $14 million per season), then I will have to take a pass. However, I am not satisfied with Shane Victorino as te starting CF next season. Mike Cameron is ok...he actually might be a pretty good fit hitting at CBP. Though is isnt a good hitter for average, he could be good for about 30 home runs in this ballpark. My guess: Mike Cameron

2. Build the bullpen - I wouldnt mind a bullpen of Brett Myers closing, J.C Romero pitching the 8th and Ryan Madsen pitching the 6th or 7th innings, but I cant see Tom Gordon having much more left in the tank. There isnt a whole lot out there, but even if you have to overpay some closrer just to be a set-up man, then do it. I wouldnt mind seeing Joe Borowski in here pitching the 8th innings, he had a pretty good year closing games with the Indians. David Riske is a guy who pitched pretty well for the Royals and could command some decent dollars, I might take a shot on him. But the guy I would go after is Japanese LHP Hitoki Iwase. I wase had the most saves ever by a Japanese pitcher with 46 and has a real nasty slider, he is that nasty lefty they Phillies have always seemed to lack. My Guess: The try to catch lighting in a bottle on Al Reyes (closer from Tampa Bay) and he falters.

3. Get an run producing 3B - The Phillies tried to go cheap this season at 3B with Wes Helms and he was really not the answer. Greg Dobbs is not really a 3B and isnt really a starting player and is looked at as a bat off the bench. The Phillies let Abe Nunez go so it says to me that they are going to get a 3B. Somehow, someway that must make sure this guy can hit and field the position. There are a few FA out there that fit the build, mainly Mike Lowell, but something tells me he will be back in Boston. I am looking more at the trade route and there are a few names that I am thinking about. Some names that might be available vis trade include, Troy Glaus (Not really a natioanl league type of player anymore), Scott Rolen ( he hated it here the first time, but there is a lot that has changed since he has left, mainly they win now. Either way, I dont see it happeneing), Garrett Atkins is a name that has been mentioned a bit, the Rockies have a young kid they like at 3B and Atkins could be had. Would Michael Bourn get the deal done? I think I would take a chance on Atkins who might be ready to be a all-star or he could be another Morgan Ensberg. I think he is the fomrer and would fit in real nice. My guess: I have a feelign about Atkins, but if they dont get him, I think they go cheap and try to get a "name" that has under-preformed, like...Wilson Betemeit, who stinks.

4. Get me a starting pitcher - I will take my chances with Hamels, Kendrick and Moyer, but please dont give me Eaton every fifth day. Problem is he is going to be called on every fifth day and that means the next guy they get becomes very important. They will have very few options on the FA market and the trade market probably isnt going to be very attractive either. My Guess: Jose Contreas, they are going to hope he can "give you innings, but I am not happy if this is the move. I might take a shot with a guy like Paul Byrd, a guy who can be an effective regular season guy who has proven he can win games. He isnt the answer, but I would take him over Contreas, who just doesnt seem like a Philly guy.

5. Get a little more depth on the bench - By making Dobbs and essentialy Helms full-tme bench players, they have added some depth with-in to their bench. Add in Jason Werth who should be back in a reserve role, you have three guys who have some pop on the bench. I think Chris Coste will be the back-up catcher and he is a nice bat on the pine too. I would like to see them get a guy who can play some corner INF and OF, maybe like a Mark Loretta, Aurbey Huff, Scott Spiezo...guys who could start if needed but are much better as back-up players and are versitile. My Guess: Marlon Anderson was once the future 2B, now he is a top-notch reserve player who can play the OF.

Its a long offseason, but spring training will be here before you know it. We will have the Phillies covered, listen every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for Phillies offseason updates.

Talk to you on the radio.....

Tuesday's Show

Tuesday 10/16

4:20 - NBC-40 Sports Director Pete Thompson joins us for a Tuesday with Thompson. We will discuss the Eagles - Jets, the Flyers early season success plus we will take a look at all things local that Pete is working on for the news.

Talk to you on the radio....

Monday show...Live at Chickie's and Pete's

As always, we will be doing the show live Monday at Chickie's and Pete's in EHT. So far, I am really enjoying doing the show there, there have been pretty good crowds out to see the show. This week, it will be the Omar Gaither show...I think Omar played pretty well again, he'll be there 7-8 to access his play...please join us, its a great time.

Here is what else is on the agenda:

5:20 - Nick Fierro - Eagles beat writer from the Express Times...Are the Eagles going to struggle on offense all season or does Nick think they are working out the kinks....

6:05 - Tommy Scheogler - NBC/ABC TV...BCS rankings are out, NFL week 6 re-cap, MNF preview.

6:40 - Steven Miller - Phillies beat writer from the Morning Call. Will the Phillies spend money..what is Stevens blueprint to the offseason.

Remember show starts Monday at 5, not 4...Talk to you on the radio....

Flyers win home opener

Got a chance to watch the Flyers game on Saturday night and really liked what I saw...again. This team skates so much better then last years edtion that couldnt get out of its own way. Marty Biron to me has been aa big difference in net, but it doesnt seem he is getting much publicity for his play.

The defense is playing much better in front of Biron, but I think he is been has steady as can be between the pipes.

Flyers are back at home Tuesday ngiht to play Atlanta, they havent won a game yet this season and playing on the road in Philly should mean a 4-1 start for the orange and black.

I am not saying they are the best team...but they are way better and more exciting then last season. I am actually enjoying watchign them play so far, I for one will be watching on Tuesday.

Talk to you on the radio....

Eagles 16, Jets 9

The Eagles beat the Jets today in what was pretty much a must win for the Birds. However, they really struggled on offense again. I think the main problem has been the offensive line, they are not pass blocking very well right now and with Donovan McNabb not 100% the breakdowns from the O-Line is the main concern right now.

The defense really played well again today, they looked a little lost early in the game verse the Jets running game, but got their act together and held the Jets without a TD. Now the Jets are not a very good offensive team but its another good effort from the unit that was questioned the most in the offseason.

The special teams are still, well, not special. David Akers missed 2 field goals, Sav Rocca had another tough game and the return teams still stink. They need to get better here.

The good: Eagles D played well again without Dawkins, Lito and Bunkkey missed some time too.
Brian Westbrook was back, and gave the Eagles a much needed shot in the arm when they needed him, he delivered. The were no injuries today, thats a plus.

The Bad: Again the Eagles offense was stuck in 2nd gear all day. Save for the early big TD to Kevin Curtis, they still couldnt put a good drive together. The O-Line is still having trouble with pass protection.

Up Next: The Eagles (2-3) host the Bears, who lost to Minnesota. The Bears seem like a team that the wheels are falling off. Minnesota is not a very good offensive team and they managed to score 34 points verse the bears D.

Plenty more on the Eagles win over the Jets tomorrow at Chickie's and Pete's.

Talk to you on the radio....

Eagles - Jets...How I see it

Philadelphia Eagles (1-3) @ New York Jets (1-4) - Sunday @ 1 p.m.

This game is such an important game for the Eagles. A win and the remain relevant in the very mediocre NFC. A loss to a pretty bad Jets team and the Eagles turn into one big Tabloid. The Jets have never beaten the Eagles and the Eagles have never lost following a bye week under Andy Reid. Here are my keys to the game:

1. Run the ball - The Eagles still have a pretty good run blocking line, anytime they used Buckhalter vs. the Giants, they seemed to gain pretty good yardage. The key there was the Giants sent a ton of pressure from the outside, daring the Eagles to run. The Eagles simply did not run the ball enough to keep the Giants from sending outside pressure. Pound the ball vs this soft Jets defense.

2. Get McNabb some confidence - Obvioulsy, Donovan has it in him still. He just isnt as consistent. He had one of, if not his best game ever 3 weeks ago vs the Lions, so we know he has it in him. I think the big thing here is...running the football. Get the running game going, even if it means keeping the score close and then let Donovan see the field better. There is no need to let the Jets think they can send pressure all day at McNabb. If the Eagles run it effectivly for two and half quarters, it will open things up for a big second half for McNabb.

3. Make a play on D - The Eagles defense has been solid. But not spectacuar, this is the week to change that. The Jets offense is not very dynamic and can be pressured into making mistakes. They dont run the ball very well but do have some weapons on the outside with Coles and Cotchery. Take them out of the game by making the Jets turn conservative. Get pressure, make a pick, force a fumble...something, the D has been a strength, now its time to become the face of the team.

4. Health matters - Not having five starters was a huge disadvantage for the Eagles vs the Giants. Its not an excuse, its a fact. Winston Justice was horrible filling in for William Thomas. Buckhalter was OK running the ball, but he didnt help take away the outside pressure, beacuse he isnt the same threat in the open field that Westbrook is. Lito is a playmaker, and they are lacking that without him. And LJ Smith might not be a fan favorite, but he pressence in the line-up is definitly missing this season.

5. Special team need to be special - The special teams arent helping at all. The league has really has become a league were if your special teams stink you are behind the curve. Teams are drafting, signing and getting their hands on KR and PR any way they can, the Eagles are still behind the rest of the league in this area. The punting game has also been brutal, Sav Rocco impress in preseason, but the lights are on and he is forgetting his lines. He needs to make sure the field postion game is the Eagles to win.

Final Pick : Eagles 31 - Jets 20

Friday's Show

Looking forward as always to the Friday edition..good show planned as always, here is the rundown :

4:20 - Eagles beat writer Dave Weinberg of the Press of AC previews the Eagles - Jets game.
4:40 - NY Jets beat writer J.P. Pelzman of the Bergen Record is our "Outside View" segment. 5:05 - The Serago Roberts "Pick The Perfect Score" this weeks prize is now $250.
5:40 - Jeff Pasquino of thefootballguys.com sets your fantasy football line-up.
6:05 - CAL Preview Show - We preview all the weeks top games with John Leon of The Mainland Journal, Tom Williams of Prime Events and Pete Thompson host of the Friday Night Blitz on NBC40.

Talk you on on the radio...

TODAYS SHOW

THURS 10-11-07

4:20 - TONY MOSS - NFL editor at www.sportsnetwork.com. Tony will break down all the week 6 games and give his pick for the suicide pool!

5:20 - John Finger - Phillies columnist, www.comcastsportsnet.com. John will give us his perspective on the Phillies offseason, Charlie Manuel's contract and all things Phillies.

5:40 - Mike Florio - Editor of www.profootballtalk.com. Mike will talk about the Andy Reid rumors and give us the latest updates on all the top NFL rumors.

Check out the blog tonight, I will be blogging about my thoughts on this weeks Eagles - Jets game.

Flyers looking good

4-1 after one period.

So far, I am pretty impressed with how much better this team skates this year. I also said at the time of the Biron trade last year, that they finally got the guy in net that they have been lacking since a young Ron Hextall patroled the pipes. Briere has paid off so far, scored again in the first period and Gagne looks like he could have a huge season playing with him.

7-2 after 2 periods...

- Briere is pretty darn good, with a goal and 2 assists now, he is really playing some good hockey.

- Lupal is playing well tonight, got his first goal of the season.

- Nice to see Mike Richards break out a bit, he had a rough year last season. If they can get him going early, that should mean good things.

- Flyers have scored 4 goals on the power play..I think thats more then all last season.....

- Biron has given up a couple of goals so far...both on power play. That needs to get better, powe play defense.

Flyers win, 8-2.

- Richards scored short-handed (5-on-3), he looks very confident.

- Great save during the 5-on-3 by Biron.

- To many penalties by the Fly-boys, but as Coates said during the broadcast...they are getting plently of practice in a game thats been lopsided from the drop of the puck.

Flyers - Islanders on Saturday, home opener.

Keep checking back...I will try to post as much as possible during all Flyers, Sixers and Eagles games.....

Phillies Sign Manuel to a 2-Year Deal

The Phillies inked manager Charlie Manuel to a two year deal with a club option for 2010. The not been the biggest Manuel fan, but in some ways I dont mind it and in other ways I think...they can do better cant they?

Why I like it:

1. Maybe the most important reason...the players like him. Its tough to play for a guy you dont like and dont respect. The players like and respect Charlie, so I like that.

2. While in the locker room after game 1 and game 2 of the playoffs, I never really sensed any panic around this team and i was impressed by that. That comes from the manager.

3. His mistakes in-games, still make for good radio.

Why I dont like it:

1. His in-game managing still needs a lot of work. He makes way to many mistakes that end up hurting his team.

2. There are going to be better options on the market this offseason and maybe thats what this team needs to get over the hump to go from a good team to great team.

3. Maybe the Phillies brought him back and set him up to fail. Its easier to blame Charlie then it is yourself for not getting the right guys this offseason. An offseason that is barron of top level talent on the free agent market. Remember Charlie has never been the most popular guy in the Philadelphia region and the Phillies management has to know that.

4. What if the Phillies get off to another 4-11 type of start b/c Charlie doesnt have them prepared and ready. It has happened all 3 years with him here and if it happens again, will they again be able to hope the Mets have a historic colapasse to get them into the playoffs again.

5. If injuries occur again, will Charlie be able to remain calm knowing he is on a 2-year deal, rather then the lame duck status he had this season. He had his hands tied and he knew it, so he no choice but to keep his mouth shut....will he be as patient with some leverage?

Overall, the Phillies wouldn't go after Torre, LaRussa, Girardi or any other top level manager that might be available. So, he might be the next best thing. His record does speak volumes of the kind of guy he must be, beacuse he still is very poor at managing a game.

Thoughts ?
e-mail me - themikegillshow@gmail.com

Talk to you on the radio.....

Phillies Eliminated...Thoughts on the offseason.

The Phillies fell in Colorado last night 2-1. Ironic huh, it was the Phillies bats that let them down in this series, not the much maligned pitching staff (Save for the bullpen in game 2). Really, this team just wasnt good enough and they lost to the better team. Colorado right now, might be the best team in baseball and should be for a long time. They are young and they are talented.

Here are the top 5 offseason issues that the Phillies need to reslove :

1. 3B - Gregg Dobbs/Wes Helms/ Abe Nunez - The three headed 3B monster didnt work out quite as well as the Eagles three-headed RB monster did in 2004. Hemls was brought in to be the starter and he failed. Dobbs was an after thought and it was questioned in spring training if he would even make the team, he did and was one of the biggest surprises of the season. Nunez is a valuable defensive player but cant hit a little bit. He is a FA and shoul only be retained if the Phillies get a offesive-minded 3B that isnt a good fielding 3B.

FA 3B - A-Rod (NYY), Mike Lowell (BOS), Pedro Feliz (SF).

2. Bullpen - While the bullpen preformed well in September, they weren't a very consistent bunch. While I was OK with Myers moving to the closers role, they need to find a young live arm to pitch in front of him. When Tom Gordon was healty, he was still a nerve-racking adventure everytime he was called upon. One of the biggest decsions will be what do you do with J.C. Romero? He is 31 years old, and he came over to the Phillies as an after-thought, once he was released from the Red Sox. In September he might have been the teams MVP. Yes he ended up being the losing pitcher in Game 3, but he is a guy who is going to be seeking a much deserved rasie...would you give it to him? The rest of the pen was just brutal, not one guy was reliable and the hope here is that Condry, Geary, Mesa and Alfonseca are all gone.

FA RP - Joe Borowski (Clev), Octavio Dotel (ATL), Scott Linebrink (MIL), Joe Nathan (MINN), Mariano Rivera (NYY).

3. Starting rotation - Cole Hamels/Kyle Kendrick/Kyle Lohse/Jamie Moyer/Adam Eaton - The staff was supposed to be the strength of the team in spring training. But injuries to Fredy Garcia, Jon Lieber and moving Brett Myers to the bullpen, plus the Eaton was horrible all season made the staff just mediocre. Kudos to Kyle Kendrick and Pat Gillick for getting Lohse, but the staff needs to get better. Hamels is a bona-fide ace and should lead the roation for the next 10 years. But, they need to get a top notch #2 starter due to Hamles injury history. I would love to see a situation where Kendrick become more of the #4-5 starter rather then a #2. Moyer is signed for another season before he takes over as the teams pitching coach in 2009. Then there is the question of Lohse, he is a FA and is probably going to get between $55-$60 million this offseason, is he worth that? As for Eaton...there is no answer here. He stinks and cant be traded - bad, bad, bad move.

FA SP - Tom Glavine (NYM), Kenny Rogers (DET), Andy Pettite (NYY), Bartolo Colon (LAA), Curt Schilling (BOS)...Not much help here.

4. Aaron Rowand - Coming off a career season, what do you do with Aaron Rowand. He should be getting somewhere around $10-$12 million per season. Is he worth that to you ? I am not sure how I feel about him, I think he is a nice player, but I do think he had a career year. Do I think the alternatives are better...not in-house, but for $10-$12-million - go get pitching. I have been around Rowand and he is a good guy in that locker room and that means a lot, this is a huge decsion for the Phillies.

FA CF - Mike Cameron (SD), Andruw Jones (ATL), Torii Hunter (MINN).

5. Charlie Manuel - This is a huge decsion as well, almost the same decsion you have with Rowand. The guys love Charlie, thats apparent. However, can they contiune to live with his poor managerial decsions? His ability to run a bullpen needs work, but give him credit he went with the hot hand and used just about everyone on the 25-man roster. He got this team to stay together after they went 4-11 to start the season but those slow starts seem to be happening way to often under his watch. My guess is that he will be back.

Phillies down 0-2, head to Colorado SAT.

Few things right off the bat...

- Manuel took Kendrick out and I disagree...but if he was going to goto someone Lohse was the right guy. But Kendrick has been your second best pitcher all season...stay with him.

- Rollins came to play...he is a gamer and he IS the face of the Phillies. Howard and Utley might be the faces on the yearbook and TV commercials...but this team belongs to Rollins. After the game in the locker room, Rollins stands in the middle and takes the questions like a man..Utley and Howard stay at the locker and get rest, they make you come to them, Rollins comes to you.

- Clubhouse was quiet after the game, but not somber...they know they are in a hole...but I didnt sense they thought it was the end of the world. I see them fighting hard Saturday night and getting a W.

- I think the Rockies actually pitched around Burrell early in the game to pitch to Howard...how much is that worth when looking for a raise.

- Danny Briere just scored a goal for the Flyers....lets hope he works out better then the first two games of this Phillies - Rockies seriers has for Phillies fans.

- Talk to you on radio at 4....good guests tomorrow.

4:20 - Dave Weinberg..is Andy Reid steppig down ?
4:40 -Tony Moss...NFL preview
5:05 - Steve trevelise...Phillies fans..Eagles fans...who has it worse right now ?
5:20 - John Finger...Phillies have a pulse left?
5:40 - Jeff Pasqunio....what to do with Travis Henry in Fantasy football ?
6:05 - CAL Preview....Our game - Oakcrest at AC.

Phils lose Game one.

My first thought on this game was my use Michael Bourn as a pinch runner and not have him take off? Figure on a 2-2 pitch, if Bourn runs on the pitch and Ruiz hits the ball to right field (which he did) then the second basemen covers second, the hole on the right side opens up and Bourn goes from first to third with one out.

I was in the press confrence after the game, here are my thoughts:

- After the game Manuel said he put Bourn into run and that he had the green light...then why didnt he???

- Hamels said he wanted to throw strikes, he didnt and it got him into trouble, that is why Kendrick is so improtant, he throws strikes and thats why he wins. I am not doubting Hamels, but he knows you need to throw strikes no matter how good your stuff is. If this series goes to game five, Hamels wont let this team lose.

- Charlie said tomorrow is a very important game for us to come out and lose...Freudian slip? Lets hope not.

- I thought the energy in the crowd was lacking...you tell me.

- I was in the locker room after the game talked to a few guys, they all said we werent tight...I disagree...top 4 guys 0-15, 9 K's...what do you think?

- After the game I talked to Ryan Howard, he didnt know who was pitching for Colorado tomorrow...I like that.

- Victorino had his ankle wrapped in ice...I think Wearth starts in RF either way tomorrow.

- Kendrick is as cool as a cucumber...I think he will pitch a fine game tomrorow.

- Matt Holliday is good...MVP good.

- I think Phils win tomorrow...I had a good feeling going into the locker room...guys seemed loose and ready for tomorrow. I think the 14 yrs, the home crowd and Dan Baker...he has more energy then any PA guy ever...he just gets you going...and the guys were flat. They will respond.

Talk to you tomorrow...see you on the radio Friday at 4....
-

Phils playoff roster set.

Here’s who the Phillies will be sending out there for Wednesday’s opener of the NLDS:

PitchersAntonio Alfonseca; Clay Condrey; Tom Gordon; Cole Hamels; Kyle Kendrick; Kyle Lohse; Jose Mesa; Jamie Moyer; Brett Myers; J.C. Romero

CatchersRod Barajas; Chris Coste; Carlos Ruiz

InfieldersGreg Dobbs; Wes Helms; Ryan Howard; Tadahito Iguchi; Abraham Nunez; Jimmy Rollins; Chase Utley

OutfieldersMichael Bourn; Pat Burrell; Aaron Rowand; Shane Victorino; Jayson Werth

- Kinda surprised that Geary didnt make the roster, Mesa is on...Alfonseca is on...Eaton is OUT!
- Phils kept 3 catchers...this way Coste can be used as a PH and Barajas will be the 3rd Catcher.
- Phils pitching rotation is set. 1. Hamels 2. Kendrick 3. Lohse 4. Moyer..I like it.

Phillies and Rockies

Just got done watching the Rockies - Padres game.

Here are my post game thoughts :

- Wanted to play S.D. - Man Colorado is hot.
- TBS Needs HD for the playoffs...
- What a game...if the rest of the playoffs are this good, what a treat we will be in for.
- Craig Sager is the WORST dresser I have ever seen, yet they put him on TV.
- I think the Phillies are in for a tough series...one of those where even if you win, your pitching staff takes a beating.
- Remember Phillies lost the season series 3 games to 4 with the Rockies and didnt play well at all at CBP in mid-September.

- Check in to the blog during all Phillies games....

Eagles are 1-3????

Somehow, this isn't getting the play that is normally would with the Phillies success taking the area by storm. Are they going to get it together? I am not sure. I want to make everyone feel good by telling them not to worry, that things are going to be OK. But I am not sure that is the case. There are some positive points to keep in mind.

1. Eagles have looked horrible on offense - TRUE. But have a bye week and are 8-0 under Andy Reid the week after a bye, if they show me something vs. the Jets, I will feel better.

2. Eagles lost to the Packers, Skins and Giants - TRUE. But the Eagles also beat a 3-1 Lions team that is a game behind the 4-0 Packers, who if the Eagles field a punt, they would have beaten that game. So the moral of this story is...the NFC STINKS.

3. The Eagles D has been better then we thought - TRUE. And after talking to Omar Gaither this week, it will only get better. This D had been good without Lito and B-Dawk and should be even better when they get back.

4. The Eagles can afford to win with just D - FALSE. The Eagle O needs to preform up to its capabilities. No fan is expecting 56 points every week, but 21-28 shouldnt be to much to ask for with 3 pro bowlers on the offensive line, a top 5 RB in Brian Westbrook and Donovan McNabb, its time for the offense to get it done and the Jets might be the perfect cure for what has been an awful offense.

5. The Eagles cant win if they arent healty - TRUE. The Phillies had multiple injuries, but not all at the same time. The Eagles are missing 5 starters, all of which have been to the Pro Bowl. Get them back and you'll get back some of your lost mojo.

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The Phils have won the East??????

Somehow, it still hasnt hit me. The Phillies are the 2007 N.L East champs. There is just something about this team that I just kept believing in even when things got ugly. We talked on the radio and the pitching (or lack there-of) just kept coming up. However, there was a time on the air that I said...if they can get Gordon, Romero and Myers all 100% and in their roles at the same time, they had something there.



Keep in mind Madsen has been gone for awhile too, with him in the 6th, Romero in the 7th, a healthy Gordon in the 8th an Myers in the 9th to close, thats not that bad. Think about it, At different points this season the team that won the division with 89 wins was missing the current MVP Ryan Howard, the possible MVP (if he didnt get hurt) Chase Utley, Brett Myers, Tom Gordon, Shane Victorino, Fredy Garcia, Jon Leiber, Ryan Masdsen...and these are just the names you recognize. The main thig with this team that I notcied was, they never used the injuries as an excuse and I have to credit Charlie Manuel for that.

Enjoy the ride Phillies fans, it might be awhile before you have the chance to see the Phillies in the post-season again.

- Talk to you on the radio....