We have a NEW member of the Sports Monarchy Family! My boy BigMouf is a die hard Knicks fan, so keep an eye out for his Basketball posts, or his Knicks posts like this one. Follow him on Twitter @BigMouf2012
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Mike Woodson and his random, inconsistent rotations can be the reason why Knicks dont reach their full potential and make some noise in the Eastern Confrence. Getting out of the first round is no longer accpectable.
The last two seasons Woodson has been great at calling on the correct guy when a injury accures but has he been great with a healthy Knicks team? Last year not calling on Copeland and Novak until games 4 and 5 of the Pacers series when the team desperately need outside shooting.
Woodson's lack of clarity almost cost the Knicks their first Win last night to a just put together Bucks team. Woodson surprised everyone when he decided to play small ball and start Pablo at the 2 along side Felton. Not a bad idea until Woodson makes 10 subs in the first quarter alone.
Knicks have depth but until Woodson figures out each players role we will continue to see this random hot and cold streaks. Knicks need a leader with a plan! For Knicks fans sake, let's hope Woodson finds some clarity and is the man and leader we desperately need him to be.
NFL Week 9 starts off with the Bengals 6-2 Bengals heading to Miami to take on the Dolphins.
The Bengals are HOT right now. 6-2, the current #2 seed in the AFC, undefeated at Home, beating teams like the Packers, Patriots, and Lions, and they have the 8th ranked defense in the league. Ever since the Cleveland debacle, Dalton has been playing to his potential with 11 TD's and just 3 INT's in the last 4 games with a 61.38 completion percentage. That offense is so dangerous. Dalton not only has AJ Green, but Marvin Jones has come on as a great receiver opposite him. Gresham carries the tight end duties and Sanu runs the slot plays. He's got so many weapons to throw the ball and spread the field with.
Their defensive has only allowed 144 points in the league this season (5th), they give up 225.2 yards per game and are 8th in rushing defense. Their defensive line is great at rushing the passer forcing them into bad throws and disrupting their rhythm. They have a solid defense across the board with 16 sacks on the season and 7 picks overall. That team on both sides of the ball is dangerous.
On the other side of the spectrum, we've got the Miami Dolphins. They have lost their last 4 games. Tannehill has not played well. Ever since losing to New Orleans, he's thrown 6 TD's to 4 INT's, throwing under 200 yards in the last two games. He's definitely struggled in the passing game. I personally believe they were robbed a little in New England, but that's neither here nor there. They've allowed the most sacks this season with a 20th ranked pass defense. All the blame can't be placed on Tannehill though. Wallace has been terribly inconsistent, their running game hasn't really been effective and their top Red-Zone threat in Gibson is out.
Things just have not gone well for Miami as of late. Their offense has struggled to put up points, their defense gives up 245 yards per game and over 100 yards on the ground. They now face a team that just absolutely dismantled the Jets by 30 points last Sunday. The Bengals are already 3-0 against the AFC East. It looks like they're going to 4-0. Miami doesn't have the offensive power to score on the Bengals defense. Dalton has weapons going up against a 20th ranked pass defense. Sure, Miami will be in front of their home crowd and will definitely start out aggressive trying to throw the ball down the field early, but once they get figured out, the Bengals will have them beat. Cincy have started out slow on the road this season, but manage to win those close games.
Miami has fallen off the wagon. The Bengals are FOR REAL. They're looking to keep it that way.
The season of Basketball is here! The preseason is done and the regular season games start tonight! Later on in the week, I will post my predictions for who will win the East, who will win the West, who will win Rookie of the Year, 6th Man, etc.
But for now, let's get into the games that are going down tomorrow night.
Orlando Magic @ Indiana Pacers - 7:30 p.m. NBA TV
- The outstanding rookie out of Indiana, Victor Oladipo makes his debut for the Magic. His versatile skill set brings a new dynamic to this Magic team that lacked a offensive consistency last season (ranked 25th in total offense) and what he brings is a defensive presence to this team. He's a great defender, can lock up and get physical with players to force turnovers. He's an all around great player on both sides of the ball. He doesn't have an exceptionally strong team around them, but I believe they'll be better than last season.
- But they face a team all about defense. Indiana led the league in rebounds last season and had the best defense against the 3 point shot. They can crash the boards with Hibbert down there, can defend the perimeter very well depending on the matchups they use, and they've shot shooters. They'll be without Granger, but with Hill running the point and West making jumpers from 17 ft, they're a hard team to defend against and play against because their defense is so stifling. And at Home, Orlando is in trouble. I smell a blowout. The Pacers aren't a flashy team. They play at a consistent pace, but they can force turnovers and make transition baskets. The Pacers still remain a threat to Miami. More so than Chicago, in my opinion.
Prediction: Pacers Win Chicago Bulls @ Miami Heat - 8 p.m. TNT - The defending Champions, Miami Heat host the Chicago Bulls and the returning Derrick Rose. In the playoffs, the Bulls, riddled with injuries, still stole a game from Miami. The Bulls have Rose back and Noah is 100% so their offense will back at full strength and their defense has gotten better. Jimmy Butler is flying under the radar, in my opinion. He's shown what he can do in the playoffs. He's not a great scorer, but he's mostly an asset because of his defensive ability. Bulls have Noah out there with his energy crashing the boards and getting points in the paint. The Bulls aren't a great defensive unit all around, but there are players on that team that can get physical with the Heat players and generate turnovers.
- But here's why the Heat will win. You've got Lebron, Wade, and Bosh leading the charge. Their bench is extremely deep. Ray Allen coming off along with Battier hitting the corner 3's and The Birdman for his energy and defense around the rim. But the X-Factor is Greg Oden. A HEALTHY Greg Oden is dangerous. He's a big body that can get fight for those boards and brings a great offensive presence to that team. Miami just gets deeper every year. Their achilles heel is that when you get physical with Miami, they tend to turn the ball over. When you press them in a halfcourt set, they struggle to put up consistent points. They rely too much on jumpshots and transition points. They were never exceptionally well at getting to the rim. The Bulls can match up with Miami defensively and contain that offense.
- But at Home, their energy levels go up a few notches. They can execute a trap defense and when they get out in transition, there's no other team better. They can hit those open buckets if they have the space, but their lack of consistency down low is key. If Oden can play like we know he can, then this team gets a boost. At home, on a night where they get their rings, I believe Miami with the Home crowd behind them will be on fire. With Rose back with the Bulls, they are a legitimate threat to Miami in the East, but I don't see them winning THIS game.
Prediction: Heat Wins
Los Angeles Clippers @ Los Angeles Lakers - 10:30 p.m. TNT - The Clippers debut with Doc Rivers as their Head Coach. It's going to be interesting to see the dynamic he brings to this team. I'll say this, the Clippers can go far if they have some consistency to go with their size. DeAndre Jordan brings a defensive presence, but he can't make free throws, or make great shots. Hollins is 7 feet tall, but how can be consistent? Clippers lack consistency. Chris Paul is the best player on the team, but he needs consistency from his big men, especially Blake Griffin. I love his dunks and what he does, but he needs to work on his defense, his post moves, his jumpshot, and everything else that can make him a more effective big man down low, rather than just a dunker. Hopefully, Doc instilled some defensive discipline within this team.
- The Lakers.....where do I begin. No offense to Kobe, but he ran Dwight Howard out of town. I'm calling it the way I see it. I knew their personalities were going to clash. Now, Kobe just has Nash around him. They did add some pieces to their bench. They brought Farmer back, they've got Jordan Hill. Blake is on there, along with Nick Young and Jodie Meeks. I personally hope to see Meeks get some playing time because he's a good shooter. Kaman brings size, which is about it. Kaman isn't even a decent scorer and defender. His main job will be to pull those boards down. Gasol is just soft down low, scared to take to the hoop, flops a lot, and focuses on getting his jumpshot better. The Lakers all around the board are not a good team. Sure they'll be able to score, but they'll lack a defensive consistency and the Clippers offense is the type of team to take advantage of that.
- The Clippers can expose some matchups and score some easy buckets. CP3 vs Nash will be fun to watch, Kobe will have something to prove coming out being ranked 25th and all. But the Clippers are just a better squad than Lakers. They were last season. Lakers are a mess of an organization. The Clippers got better in the offseason. I expect a good showing from them.
Prediction: Clippers Win
Enjoy The Games! I'll be back tomorrow with my predictions of who will win the East and the West and everything else throughout the week.
Week 8 of the NFL season, and the playoff picture is starting to take form. We're slowly beginning to see who's a contender and who's a pretender. We've got a few good games going this week. Let's dive right in.
Carolina @ Tampa Bay
- Tampa Bay is clearly struggling. I wouldn't be surprised if Schiano was fired after this season. Freeman may have started off bad, but he was a solid QB for that team. Glennon is decent, but he doesn't have the intangibles. The Panthers are looking pretty good. Cam is putting up great numbers like he usually does, but this time he's got a defense that can close out games. The Panthers 3rd ranked defense has been a bright spot for this team. They're 2nd in the league in opposing points per game and TD's per game behind Kansas City. Their secondary is beatable, but their 4-3 technique is quite effective. Revis and Steve Smith should be interesting to watch as well. But the Panthers are 3-3 and with that defense being led by Cam Newton, I don't see them losing this game. The Bucs struggles are gonna continue especially with Doug Martin out giving the reigns to rookie RB Mike James.
Prediction: Panthers defeat Buccaneers
San Francisco @ Jacksonville
- That "trap" game didn't work out too well against San Diego. The Jaguars are struggling. They are trying, but they just can't seem to get anything going. And now in come the Niners that have won, now, 3 straight, looking for 4. Everything points to the Jaguars getting destroyed. The Niners have a great defense that has gotten better and they have Kaepernick that run the ball and effectively throw it down the field. They dismantled a Titans team that was playing good Football up until that point. Henne and Blackmon have been important to this team's passing game, but they're going up against a Juggernaut of a team.
Prediction: Niners defeat Jaguars
Cleveland @ Kansas City
- The Browns just continue to crumble. First, they get rid of Colt McCoy, then get rid of Trent Richardson, then they start winning some games with Hoyer at QB, then he goes down, they lose 2 straight and are now considering trading their best receiver in Josh Gordon. And now they have to face the last undefeated team left in Football, the Kansas City Chiefs. You can come up with all the stories you want, saying Alex Smith isn't good, or they haven't played anybody, but they're 7-0. They beat Dallas, they beat Tennessee (who at that time was playing good Football) and won a close game against the top defense in the league in Houston. That defensive line is absolutely nasty, leading the league in sacks, TD's per game, and red zone percentage, and Alex Smith is doing just what he has to do, and take care of the ball with 7 TD's to 4 INT's. Smith is an efficient passer and has become quite mobile in the pocket making plays with his feet.
- The Browns are now struggling to move the ball consistently. Wheeden had 149 yards passing against Green Bay, and barely cracked 100 yards rushing. Facing this defense on the road is quite a challenge and I don't think Cleveland can get it done. They can't match KC's defensive energy, but they do have the playmakers on offense to try to get something going. Wheeden needs time, and KC is the best in the league at getting to the QB. We know what KC can do on defense, but at times their offense has been consistent. But I believe one can balance out the other. If one side has an off day, count on the other to pick up slack. Kansas City has the most balanced team across the board; the efficient, mistake free, Quarterback, the dominant running and game and physically imposing defense. There's a reason they're 7-0 and, soon to be, 8-0.
Prediction: Chiefs defeat Browns
Miami @ New England
- At point of the season, the Dolphins looked to be playoff contenders until they played New Orleans. Ever since that game, they never could seem to get going. Their offense hasn't been consistent. Tannehill has struggled as of late throwing just 194 yards against Buffalo despite tossing 3 TD's. Their defense will need to shape up with Gronk back in the New England lineup. The Patriots come in 5-2 after losing in OT to the Jets. This will be a better matchup for them. The Dolphins pass rush isn't as ferocious as the Jets pass rush, so Brady will have some time to make some plays down the field and spread the field with Gronk back in there.
Miami's offense needs to start aggressive and force the issue throwing the ball down field and using the running game. They're second in Red Zone Scoring%. I think Miami can contend with The Patriots, but I don't see them winning this game. I think New England's offense will exploit some holes in Miami's coverage and have consistency in the passing game. The Patriots' defense is ranked 18th, but their defensive energy at home is great. Miami leads the league in sacks allowed and the Patriots' pass rush will have success getting to Tannehill. I think New England will rebound and Miami will lose their 3rd straight.
Prediction: Patriots defeat Dolphins
Buffalo @ New Orleans
- Thad Lewis has been such a spark to the Bills adding a new dynamic to this offense. He's a good pocket passer and dangerous once he gets into the open field and starts making plays with his feet. Their running attack with Spiller and Jackson are dangerous when it comes to finishing the play. But they have a tough test playing in the Superdome against New Orleans. The Saints come in allowing 15 sacks on the season against the Bills who rank 8th in sacks per game and 1st in passes picked off per game. Brees and the Saints have good ball security and love to execute those little screen plays in the flat against blitz packages knowing there will be open space down the field.
- This game will be close if Buffalo's offensive line can step up against the Saints defensive line. The Saints are 6th in sacks per game averaging 4 sacks in their last 3 games. My point is, the Saints defensive line isn't as fast and furious as KC, but they can bring pressure and rattle the Quarterback and make bad throws. The Saints' defensive line have been surprising this year with their ability to get to the QB and hurry bad throws. Thad Lewis will either get a rude awakening, or have a breakout game against an 11th ranked pass defense. Even if, they're playing in the SuperDome where Brees barely loses. With Payton back, the Saints are back to the level we know they can play at. I admire the resilient Bills, but I've got the Saints.
Prediction: Saints defeat Bills
Dallas @ Detroit
- THIS is gonna be a good one. The last time these teams met, Detroit came back IN Dallas down 27-3 and won 34-30. Dez has shooting his mouth off during the week saying he can match Megatron catch for catch. I don't think Dez is a scrub by any means, but he is no Megatron. He may have better YAC and breakaway speed, but he doesn't have the body control and ability to go up and get the ball like Calvin. When Dez can catch a TD pass in triple coverage, with guys literally draped all over him, then we can this conversation. Megatron has the height and upper body strength to make those kinds of plays look easy. He did it against Dallas in that last meeting and against Cincinnati just last week. Calvin is just bigger and stronger. It's laughably unfair when you think about it. My top 3 receivers right now; Megatron, AJ Green, Dez.
- Then again, Dez is going up against a 31st ranked pass defense, so I could see where his confidence comes from. The receiving matchup between AJ and Megatron last week was special to watch and this matchup between Dez and Megatron will be interesting. The Dallas defense is ranked 29th as well, so Stafford will have some success in the passing game. The Lions aren't exactly one dimensional. Fuaria has come alive in the passing game and Stafford has other weapons he can utilize as well. As for Dallas, Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley have emerged as playmakers on offense with Randle filling in nicely for Demarco Murray.
- Dallas has looked good so far this season and this will be quite a test going on the road against a strong Detroit Lions team. They're going to have try and contain that running game as well. When all is said and done, Dallas, on paper, may have the better team, but I think Detroit can matchup with Dallas well and have some consistency moving the ball. I believe Dallas will start aggressively and get Dez involved early to back up his talk. That Dallas pass rush will get to Stafford early on, but the Lions have the composure and make the necessary adjustments to get the win. I have Dallas winning the NFC East, but not this game.
Prediction: Lions defeat Cowboys
New York @ Philadelphia
- It's now official that Michael Vick is going to play this Sunday. That offense looked extremely horrid against Dallas. Foles, looked good against Tampa Bay, but stank it up against Dallas. The Eagles offense managed to score just 3 points. Barkley, in relief, came in and threw 3 INT's. With Vick back, that offense may actually have a little life to it. The Giants are excited coming off their first win against a struggling Vikings team with a QB that just got signed to that team. The last time these teams met, the Giants got embarrassed at home by Foles & Co. The Eagles are still Dead Last in pass defense. The Giants have new life, but can they carry over that momentum? Their pass rush needs to contain Vick in the pocket. The Eagles offensive line still isn't very good giving up 3 sacks against Dallas.
- The Eagles defensive energy may have new life at home, but the Giants now have a win and the pressure is off. I expect them to play a little better than they were in the beginning of the season. The Giants need to crank up the pressure of their defensive line. They're in the bottom when it comes to sacks per game. This is gonna be a lot closer than people think. I believe Dallas beating Philly was the first of many. After that kind of game, only one team can go up, while the other goes down. The Giants are going to play a new kind of energy now. They have to take care of the ball, have some consistency, and contain Vick through the air and on the ground. I got the Giants.
Prediction: Giants defeat Eagles
Pittsburgh @ Oakland
- Coming into this game, Big Ben is 0-2 in the last two games played in Oakland. I believe the Raiders have Big Ben's number heading into this one. Big Ben had 384 yards passing and 4 TD's in that game last season and still lost. It's easy to say the Raiders have the advantage because of that, but The Steelers definitely have new life winning two straight. Their defense is playing better and Big Ben and his offense have found some sort of rhythm. Ben did have only 190 yards against the Ravens last week. He's still struggling to find some consistency with ball movement and running game.
- While we're on running, the Steelers will need to have an answer for Terrelle Pryor. Not only can run outside the pocket and make plays, but he's an efficient passer as well. But Pittsburgh normally has performed well against running quarterbacks. Pittsburgh's offensive line still can use some work, and the Raiders defensive line is decent enough. The Raiders have beaten Pittsburgh 3 out of the last 4 times, but like I said before, I think Pittsburgh is on a hot streak right now and is looking to make some headway and get back in the AFC North race.
Prediction: Steelers defeat Raiders
New York @ Cincinnati
- This should a tough battle between two stingy defenses. The Bengals front 7 seven is no nonsense and are good pressuring the quarterback. The Jets come in with their 3rd ranked defense coming off a huge win against New England at Home and face the Bengals who are undefeated at Home. The Jets haven't faced a defense just as good as theirs yet, with the exception of maybe Tennessee. The Bengals don't generate a lot of sacks, but they're great at rushing the passer and forcing bad throws. Geno has been efficient. He's had some mistakes, but he's very efficient, good at extending plays, and can throw some absolute lasers in tight windows when the time calls for it.
- But Geno could have some success in the passing game. The Bengals have a 24th ranked pass defense where Geno could excel and make some plays through the air. The Jets secondary is beatable and now that Dalton is beginning to get it going, making some more throws down the field, and AJ Green is getting more involved, this Bengals team will be hard to beat. Dalton has more weapons and a stout running game led by Green-Ellis. The Bengals have won some close games and lead their division. I don't believe the Jets can carry this momentum over. The Bengals are flying under the radar playing some damn good Football. Their offense is consistent and their defense can get to the passer, albeit suffering with a lack of secondary play. I got the Bengals in this one.
Prediction: Bengals defeat Jets
Atlanta @ Arizona
- The Falcons are coming off a strong win against Tampa Bay and go on the road to face Arizona. The Cardinals had such potential, but they're just so inconsistent. Their defense is still solid and can force some pressure, but with Atlanta's 23rd ranked pass defense, I expect Palmer to have a good game and stay consistent through the passing game, but going up against Matt Ryan and Co. will be quite difficult. Even without Roddy and Julio, Ryan can spread the ball around to other weapons. He has Harry Douglas, Tony Gonzalez, or can just dump the ball off to Rodgers or Snelling with Jackson still out. He's got lots of other receivers he can use to get involved and implement into the offense. The Cardinals are tough at Home, and Atlanta lost the last time they played Arizona and Ryan threw 5 picks against that defense. They're gonna be all over Ryan, but I believe the Falcons can get it done. They need to win to get back in the NFC South hunt.
Prediction: Falcons defeat Cardinals
Washington @ Denver
- We saw a great game out in Indianapolis with the Colts and that energy at Home, they were able to end the unbeaten streak of the Denver Broncos. Proud of my team with the pressure they got on Manning with a few sacks and a pick. People will point out Manning's mistakes, but disregard the fact that his defense gave up 39 points and his offensive line was horrid most of the night. And now Peyton comes home against another NFC East team. They've blown out Philly and New York and went down to the wire with Dallas. What Denver is good at it stuffing the run with their top ranked rush defense. The Redskins thrive on the running. Using the read option with RG3 and running the ball with Morris and Helu Jr. It's pretty much like their game against the Eagles and you saw how that turned out.
- Ever since the Dallas game, Denver's defense has shown to be exploitable if you can find the holes in their coverage. Their lack of pass rush gives the QB time to make those kinds of throws. Griffin and his team found new life making plays against Chicago. The Broncos pass rush will have to get pressure on RG3 because if he scrambles and buys time, he can be very effective. Peyton Manning will have a bounce back game. The Redskins secondary is beatable. Look at what Josh McCown did to them in Cutler's absence. Manning will light them up, no question, but the question can Denver's defense bounce back and contain RG3. You have to score a lot of points to beat Denver. I think the Redskins will have success early, but get shut down later on. Denver is gonna bounce back.
Prediction: Broncos defeat Redskins
Green Bay @ Minnesota
- The injury bug keep on hitting the Packers with Finley going down last week. But even with all the injuries, they can still depend on Rodgers to spread the ball around and get everyone involved. His best deep threat left is Jordy Nelson. If he gets hurt, then Green Bay is in serious trouble. But they're fine for right now. The Vikings are still trying to find out what to do with themselves. Freeman was wildly inaccurate in his first game with a team he just signed with and now Ponder is back on the starting job. Ponder clearly hasn't looked the same without Harvin in the slot. I'm just surprised they haven't gotten Greg Jennings more involved in the passing game. He can be a solid deep threat if used right. Peterson is the only consistent piece on this team.
- I think even in Minnesota, the Packers will have success in the passing game effectively throwing the ball down field against Minnesota's 27th ranked defense. Their run defense needs to stay disciplined to stop Peterson after what he did to them in 2 games last season. Even if Ponder puts up good numbers, it'll take a lot to beat the Packers. The Vikings clearly aren't the team they were last season, and even with injuries, and Aaron Rodgers led Packers team will get the win.
Prediction: Packers defeat Vikings
Seattle @ St. Louis
- Kellen Clemens makes his start against the Seattle Seahawks and their defense. Clemens isn't horrible as a Quarterback, but he is serviceable. He's got a tough test going up against this defense. The Seahawks Defense hit hard, 3rd in the league in sacks, and 2nd in interceptions. St. Louis is lucky they aren't playing in Seattle. The Rams were actually doing fine this season with the Dallas game being the only exception as they were horrible all around in that game. The Rams defense will have their hands full with Russell Wilson. Wilson is flying under the radar with his QB play this season. Now that he's running more, he's not gonna put up amazing passing numbers, but he's been playing really well. He adds such a dynamic to the offense. He can make plays outside with his feet and he's very effective throwing the ball. His ball delivery and pass release just gets better with each game.
- And then you have to contend with his weapons and Marshawn Lynch and his power running taking down players with him as he runs the ball. The Rams defensive line will have to be aggressive and get to Wilson. The Cardinals had some success with that against Seattle last week. The Rams offensive line needs to buy Clemens some time to make things happen. The Rams come into this game allowing 18 sacks all season. The Rams defense can probably slow down Seattle's offense, but not for the whole game. Across the board, the Seahawks are a better, more dominant team on both sides of the ball.
I've read several articles about the greatest defenses of all time. Some say the 1976 "Steel Curtain" of the Steelers, others say the 1991 Philadelphia Eagles, the 1973 LA Rams, and the 1977 "Gritz Blitz" of the Atlanta Falcons. The 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers also deserve to be in this conversation, in my opinion.
But the two teams that were mentioned in particular were the 1985 Bears and the 2000 Ravens. So, this begs the question, which team had the better defense? Let me break down the defenses of both teams.
The 1985 Bears debuted that 46 defense technique which hasn't really been seen before coming from defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan. It was an effective 4-3 technique where the D-Line was shifted to the weak side in front of the guards and centers. It forced the offenses to account for the defenders in front of them which made it harder to execute offensive line assignments. The 46 defense was intended to rush 8 to stuff to negate the running game and make it harder for QB's to throw the ball. This allowed the two outside corners to play free bump and run, coverage to disrupt receiver routes. Offenses back then occasionally ran Strong-I, two back, two receiver sets which made it very difficult to beat that defense. Nowadays, with 5-wide formations, it makes the 46 defense easy to beat because rushing 8 will always leave somebody running open across the field. Also, quick throws can be made before the blitz hits.
Another method of creating confusion would be to show blitz, and drop linebackers into coverage. This defense is still used to this day, but sparingly. Rex and Rob Ryan implicate this defense into their defensive schemes.
The 2000 Ravens defensive scheme was a basic 4-3 allowing Ray Lewis and Co. to drop back into coverage while the defensive line did the rest. Because of their speed of the edge, and constant rushing through the A gaps, they negated the running game with ease. Their hybrid defense allowed them to shift between 3-4 and 4-3 looks making their defensive ability very effective. Their 4-3 technique was particularly effective because their four down lineman were fast enough to get to the QB leaving the linebackers surveying the quarterback and making open field tackles if a runner got through. The 3-4 allowed them to close the B & C gaps.
I assume they used the 4-3 more because running the ball would be more effective against a 3-4 technique. Especially a Strong-I set with two backs and an extra tight end on the line to block. Many teams use this sort of defensive technique, but none have been as effective as the Baltimore Ravens. The linebackers in coverage were exceptional athletes, and their four down lineman they would use were powerful and had dangerous closing speed.
How do they stack up statistically?
Overall Rank in the Regular Season:
85 Bears: #1 overall, #1 against the run, #3 against the pass.
00 Ravens: #2 overall, #1 against the run, #8 against the pass.
Total Points Allowed:
85 Bears: 198
00 Ravens: 165 (best all time)
Double Digit Points Allowed: (including playoffs)
85 Bears: 11 with 4 shutouts
00 Ravens: 7 with 3 shutouts
Total points allowed in the Playoffs: (including the Super Bowl)
85 Bears: 10 (Won Super Bowl)
00 Ravens: 23 (Won Super Bowl)
How good was their Offense?
85 Bears: 456 points (2nd)
00 Ravens: 333 points (14th)
The 2000 Ravens went through 2 Quarterbacks, both putting up mediocre numbers. Tony Banks put up 143.5 yards per game and Trent Dilfer put up 136.5 yards per game. Their running game ranked 5th in the league. They went 5 games in a row without scoring a Touchdown constantly depending on their defense to bail them out. Imagine if they had a Peyton Manning on their team. Even with poor QB play and a decent running game, the Ravens dominant defense led them all the way to the Super Bowl and won it.
The 85 Bears' had a nice lineup with Jim McMahon averaging 184.0 yards per game with 15 TD's to 11 INT's. With Walter Payton in the backfield running for over 1,500 yards that year, they had the #1 ranked rushing attack in the league that year.
But what it comes down to, is the playoffs. Both teams won the Super Bowl, but it's how they won it. The 85 Bears shut out TWO teams and held The Patriots to 10 points to win the Super Bowl. That's dominance. The Giants were 5th in total yards per game and 4th in total rush yards and were held to 0 points. The Patriots were 6th in total rush yards and were only held to 10 points.
The 2000 Ravens weren't the top ranked defense, but they showed their dominance in the playoffs. They faced the Broncos in Wild Card Weekend. Denver was 2nd in the league that year in total offense, 3rd in passing yards per game, and the 3rd ranked rushing offense in the league. Baltimore held them to just 3 points. They went on the road against Tennessee and their top ranked defense and top defense against the pass and won 24-10. They held McNair to 176 yards passing and Eddie George to just 91 yards on the ground. They took on The Raiders and their top ranked rush defense and held them to just 3 points.
After all that, it's tough to choose. Both teams stats are almost identical, but I say the Bears. They showed more dominance in the playoffs shutting out two teams and giving up just 10 in the Super Bowl. The Ravens went on the road and still allowed 13 points in two playoff games. The Ravens players was what made their defense so good. The Bears defensive scheme is what brought them to dominance. Good defensive coaching rather than relying on exceptionally good players. The Bears 46 defense was still relatively new and teams had no answer on how to attack it, giving them quite the advantage. Over time, the scheme is now easy to beat. There was nothing unusual about Baltimore's scheme. It was a simple 4-3, but the players on defense was made it work.
Then factor in the Quarterbacks playing in that time period. In 85, you had Montana, Elway, Marino to name a few. In 2000, you had Testaverde and McNair. I would've liked to see those 2000 Ravens go up against a few more skilled Quarterbacks.
Which team would've won if they faced each other? Probably the Ravens. The players they had on defense would've made McMahon run for cover. Not saying Dilfer would out play him, but with offenses knowing how to beat the 46 defense, it'd be easier. Again, this is just my opinion.
I'll end it like this:
If consider the scheme as defensive dominance, then it's The Bears.
If you're looking solely on the play of the players in the defense, then it'd be The Ravens.
I would've had this up sooner, but I didn't have the time and had some things to take care of. But TNA Bound For Glory is in the books! What did I think of it? Well, there were plenty of things I didn't like about it, but then there were plenty of things I loved about it. So, let's get right to it.
Pre Show:
Bound For Glory's Pre Show started highlighting all the matches for the show, plus showing the arrival of Jeff Hardy, Gail Kim, Magnus, and Bully Ray.
Ethan Carter III is backstage doing a photoshoot.
Highlights from Kurt Angle's Hall of Fame Dinner was showed.
Tag Team Gauntlet #1 Contender's Match:
Bad Influence came out first and faced Chavo & Hernandez. The ending saw Daniels rolling up the Chavo for the pin eliminating them. Park & EY are out next. There's good action back and forth. The ending of this match sees Park hitting a fall away slam on Daniels, while Young covers for the win. Bad Influence, apparently mad after losing, attack Park & EY. They ram Park into the Ultimate X structure on the outside and Kaz drops Young on his head. The refs come down to help Park to the back and get rid of Kaz & Daniels. The BroMans come down having a 2 on 1 opportunity. They were with this Mr. Olympia guy. Young shows some resilience and fights back, but the BroMans eventually regain control and connect with the Hart Attack on him for the win to gain the title shot later on at Bound For Glory.
Later in the show, after the match, Young is seen checking on Park. He opens the door and backs up in fright. He tells the camera man to get back. There is a bloody hand print seen on the wall.
After a video package highlighting the feud between Styles and Bully Ray, Bully Ray comes out to cut a promo. He says tonight is a night for birth and resurrection AJ Styles is Bound For Embarrassment, Bully Ray is Bound For Greatness, and The Aces and 8's are Bound For Glory.
Bully Ray heads to the back and runs into Dixie Carter, she asks him if this will be AJ Styles last night in the company. Bully smiles and walks off as the program ends.
My Thoughts: The Pre show had a nice feel to it. It felt like an old school Sunday Night Heat from back in the day. They highlighted all the matches, showed superstars arriving to the arena, played some video packages highlighting the importance to each match, and even ended with the top heel cutting a nice promo leading us off the show. This was a great way to sell the show and drop some cliffhangers to get people to order the show.
TNA Bound For Glory:
The show opened with a great video package highlighting AJ Styles and his career in TNA, and shows Bully Ray's rise to the top and TNA and what this match means to both of them. Great video package. The music was even a nice touch.
Ultimate X Match:
- So, the show starts off with the Ultimate X Match with Manik defending against Joe, Aries, Hardy, and Sabin. I liked the early pacing of the match. They weren't overloading with spots at first, it was at a good pace with everybody showing off their moves and getting the going. Joe was great as always with this quick punches and Pele kick in the corner and his exchanges with Aries looked good. Speaking of Aries, he looked good with his dropkicks in the corner that looked great and hit a diving cross body to the floor. Manik seemed to be an afterthought in this match. The one cool spot he had was a double hurricanrana from the Ultimate X on Sabin and Hardy, I believe. Other than that and a few moves, he seemed to just vanish throughout the match. Sabin took a sick looking Twist of Fate from Hardy as well.
The ending saw Sabin telling Velvet Sky to get in the ring to distract Hardy. He finally just threw her into the ring. While Hardy was busy with her, Sabin climbs the ladder that Jeff Hardy brought in, and grabs the X-Division Championship.
Here is my gripe. I don't mind that Sabin won. Sabin as a heel carrying the X-Division Championship will work, and I'm pretty sure his first feud will be with Manik as Hardy, Aries, and Joe will move on. My gripe is that the match was WAY too short. In these kinds of matches, the pacing starts off slow, quickens, and then you have a bunch of spots at the end leading to a dramatic conclusion. The match should've gone like 20-25 minutes, but it felt like it was barely even past 15 minutes. I was expecting a lot more spots at the end to get the crowd excited, but I feel like this match was underwhelming. I feel like it could've so much better if they had more time. These 5 guys, and they have like 15 minutes or so. They could've brought the house down. It was a good match, but it could've been so much better. Again, I don't mind that Sabin won, I just wish it was longer with more spots.
Abyss Returns
- So Bad Influence comes out and says how they should be put into the Tag Team Championship match. Eric Young comes out and reminds them of what they did to Joseph Park. Park has this thing that when he bleeds and sees his own blood, he transforms into his alter ego, The Monster Abyss. So, Abyss comes out with his old theme music, which was always my favorite. He comes out and just dismantles Kaz and Daniels.
I liked the segment for time filler and enjoyed Abyss coming out there and doing what he did. I wonder if they'll ever drop the Joseph Park character and just run with Abyss again. I like the whole "Transformation" gimmick he has when he sees his own blood, but they can only do it so many times, in my opinion.
TNA Tag Team Championship Match:
- Before this match Gunner and Storm were backstage talking about their match against BroMans. Gunner's promo was so strong. He started saying BroMans earned their shot tonight, but told them not to worry about their tan, the gym, their hair, or the girls. He says, they call themselves the BroMans, but he sees people who aren't ready. Storm wraps it up with his catchphrase, "Sorry about your damn luck!" They walk off and we head to the match.
- The match started so fast with Gunner and Storm dominating the BroMans on offense. The Champs just showed how dominant they were with consistent power moves and high octane offense. Gunner and Storm were on fire in the early going. But the BroMans then got the advantage over Gunner working him over. After the fast start, we got into a traditional tag team match where the BroMans worked over Gunner for most of the match cutting him off from his partner. Gunner finally starts to get it going and hits a great looking fall away slam from the top rope. It almost looked like he wouldn't hit it, but he recovered and still made it look good. Gunner get the hot tag to Storm and he comes in and cleans house on The BroMans.
The pace now got to where it was in the beginning of the match. We got great exchanges between both teams. I thought we were gonna get a Tower of Doom spot in the corner, but Gunner took Robbie E away and hit and Electric Chair slam. Storm then suplexes Jessie onto Robbie. Storm hits the Eye of the Storm on Jessie, but he kicks out. The BroMans didn't die even when Storm and Gunner hit their double team finisher which was broken up by Jessie. The ending saw Robbie throwing the tag title belt in the ring, distracting the referee. Gunner is tossed out of the ring, Jessie attacks Storm from behind and The BroMans hit a Hart Attack like finisher and win the tag team titles!
- Now, I really enjoyed this match. This was how a Tag Team Championship match should be. The match started with great pacing with both teams just beating the hell out of each other the Champs gaining the upper hand. The heels gain the advantage back and work over the faces team, then once the hot tag happens, all hell breaks loose for a while. The finish was good, and little old school. They went with the "this guy isn't the legal man" and he gives his team the advantage to get the win. I would go back and watch this match. I really enjoyed it. The BroMans winning the titles freshens up the scene. They're gonna feud with Gunner & Storm more while Park & EY are gonna deal with Bad Influence after what happened to them with Abyss. Nicely done.
Kurt Angle Inducted into TNA Hall of Fame:
- So Sting comes out in a suit with no pain and brings Kurt Angle out. He pretty much says he's getting lonely in the Hall of Fame and wants Kurt to join him. He hands him the ceremonial Hall of Fame watch. The fans were amazing here for Angle and he started to choke up a bit. But then Angle went onto say that he had to respectfully decline the offer. He felt like he didn't deserve it, hasn't lived up to his potential, and accomplished everything he needed to accomplish and once he did, then he would join him in the Hall of Fame. "When he's worthy" he says.
- I didn't expect that to be honest. I thought it would be a great moment where Angle accepted the Hall of Fame Induction and he gets a standing ovation. I don't quite understand why he didn't. They have a dinner banquet for the man and they run with an Angle where he doesn't accept it and says he wants to set a new standard. It didn't rub me any kind of way, it was just a little confusing to me. But I guess it's a first. Never seen somebody turn down the Hall of Fame before.
Triple Threat Knockouts Championship Match:
- This match was severely overlooked heading into this match, but these three went in there and put on a great match. ODB dominated the early parts of the match hitting some power moves on Gail and Brooke. I don't know what happened to Gail for most of the match. There was a spot where Gail was tossed into the corner and was on the floor on the while while Brooke and ODB went at it for a little bit. The match seemed to lull for a little bit here. I enjoyed the exchange between ODB and Brooke for the time being. I liked how ODB wasn't overpowering her the whole time and Brooke got in some good offense. Gail gets back into the match with a figure four on Brooke around the ring post. Later in the match, we almost got another cool spot where Brooke and Gail were fighting on the top rope and ODB went to join them and I thought she was gonna hit a double suplex on them both but instead she was knocked off. We settled for a fireman's carry slam on Gail and Brooke tries to roll her up to no avail.
- Now, ODB sends Brooke into the corner and goes to splash her, but the ref gets hit instead. Gail follows it up with a dropkick which ODB dodges and the ref gets hit again! Nice spot that woke the crowd up. With the ref out, Lei'D Tapa's music hits and she makes her way out. ODB figures she's here for her so she walks out to greet and gets dropped with a big time clothesline. Brooke's turn now. She tries to fight her, but Lei'D Tapa lifts her up and powerbombs her from the stage back into the ring! Great Spot! Gail takes advantage of the chaos and pins Brooke to win the Knockouts Championship! I called it! After the match, Lei'D Tapa grabs the Knockouts Championship, poses with it, then hands to Gail as the two celebrate with each other! So, it turns out Gail and Lei'D Tapa were working together all along. That was pretty cool. Nicely done little twist that caught me off guard.
- Great Knockouts match, in my opinion. These women were given enough time to put on a great match and we got a New Champion and a little twist at the end. It's nice to see Gail with the belt. She is the best female wrestler in TNA right now and she's gonna be a great heel Champion. And with Lei'D Tapa as her bodyguard, it'll be interesting to see the booking going forward. I just wonder what role she'll play. Tapa and ODB are gonna go at it down the road. I hope Taryn Terrell gets back soon so her and Gail can tear the house down again. But what other face Knockout is there? Maybe Velvet Sky gets put back into the mix. With Mickie and Tara gone, and ODB likely going after Tapa, Velvet can challenge for the Knockouts Title again. We'll have to wait and see what happens.
Kurt Angle vs Bobby Roode:
- And now we get the meat of the show, Angle vs Roode. This match had a nice feel to it. The match started nice and slow with a feeling out process with some chain wrestling. The crowd was mostly behind Angle, but there were some Roode fans out there. The match picks up with great exchanges between both men. Angle hitting suplexes and Roode with some sweet reversals. Both men would lock in submission holds and they'd get out of them. What I really enjoyed is that neither man got the advantage on one for long. The match had a consistent pace with fantastic wrestling in between. Towards the end of the match, Angle had Roode in the Ankle Lock and grapevined the leg to hold in place. Roode was crawling towards the ropes almost there, and passed out. The ref lifted his hand up and Roode got to the ropes. It looked like the ref purposely put Roode's hand on the rope. Both got up and traded right hands back and forth. The ending saw Angle and Roode on the top rope. Angle hits an Angle Slam from the top rope! Both men are down and Angle isn't moving. The ref's count gets all the way to 7 and neither man has moved. The ref gets to 8 and Roode begins to move. The ref gets to 9 and Roode gets to his feet and falls on Angle. The ref counts the three for the win.
- It looked as if Angle legit hurt himself off that top rope Angle Slam and couldn't recover to finish the match. The medics came down with a stretcher loading Angle on top of it. I knew there was something fishy about that ending. It didn't seem like the ending they were going with. Angle gets loaded on the stretcher, but gets off, removes his neckbrace and refuses to leave that way and walks out on his own power. Roode gets the win, but Angle gets a standing ovation.
- Overall, this was an amazing match. A nice wrestling match that had a good pace, a few good spots, back and forth exchanges and reversals and counters. The finish caught me by surprise. I thought for sure Angle would win, but it looked like he was legit hurt when he came off the top rope with the Angle Slam. Either way, great match between both men and a great win for Roode.
Ethan Carter III Debuts:
- Ethan Carter gets this rousing debut. The dude looks to be in phenomenal shape. They really tried to put him over with this entrance. His opponent was this really skinny guy named Norv Fernum. This guy literally looked like a twig. They tried to put him over with some offense but EC3 dominated him and finished the match with a DDT similar to the finishing DDT that Dean Ambrose uses. I liked the cockiness, he looks like a great athlete and looking forward to see what they do with him. I also wonder if they're gonna continue putting him against skinny jobbers.
Magnus vs Sting:
- So now we get to Magnus and Sting. The match started slow like with Angle and Roode. Both guys trade blows back and forth. Sting locks in the Scorpion Deathlock early, but Magnus gets out of it. Sting strikes Magnus, he mocks Old School Sting and Old School Sting Pose. Then he starts striking him like Sting and hits the Stinger Splash. Later on in the match, the roles are reversed and Sting does the Old School and starts mounting some offense. Towards the ending, Sting goes for a Scorpion Death Drop, but Magnus counters and locks in the Cloverleaf. Sting tries to fight it, Magnus applies more force and lowers down into the hold forcing Sting to tap out. At the end, Sting extends his hand and Magnus nonchalantly shakes it and walks off. Good job of making Magnus look like a douche. He makes Sting tap out and blows him off. Magnus heel turn? I see it coming.
- But I was not a fan of this match. It failed to establish any kind of rhythm, good pace, or an epic feel to it. It seemed sloppy and a little rushed. Not to mention it was short. I know Sting isn't in his prime anymore, but he's more than capable of working a longer match than that. It was a solid match, but just the Ultimate X Match, it could've been better if they were given enough time and more to work with. They went out there and just put on an ok match. So, just another gripe I have with the show. I have no problem Magnus winning, I don't feel like the match delivered the way it should've.
TNA World Heavyweight Championship: AJ Styles vs Bully Ray:
- Throughout the night, TNA was showing AJ's best moments in his TNA career. Before the match, Bully Ray cuts a promo saying he wants AJ to live with the fact that he lost and the fact that he let his family down. He ends by saying, "Welcome to my Jungle." Styles comes out first and Bully Ray comes out to the lyrical version of the Aces and 8's theme. After the intro for both men, they lock up and we have a feeling out process. Bully overpowers Styles, then Styles comes back and overpowers Bully Ray. Bully then did what he did in his match with Sabin and continuously chops the chest of AJ until it changes colors, but AJ gets more and more angry and takes Bully down. Knux and Bischoff get involved, but just for a few moments. Bully tries to use the hammer, but AJ hits an Enziguiri.
On the outside, AJ puts Bully on a table and attempts a Springboard 450 Splash to the table outside but Bully Ray moves! What a spot! Taz then hands Bully a knife and he cuts the ropes revealing the wood under the mat. Bully calls to the back, but nobody comes. Dixie Carter instead comes out and gets somebody to hand Bully Ray a chair. Styles comes back with a springboard flying forearm into the chair into Bully's face. He then connects with the Springboard 450 splash. Hebner goes to count the fall but Dixie gets involved. The end of the match sees Styles smashing the chair over Bully's head and connects with the Spiral Tap for the win! AJ Styles is the new TNA World Heavyweight Champion!
- For a Main Event, this was a 4.5 out of 5. This match had everything. It told a story, had a feeling out process, some great spots by AJ, Bully showing his aggressiveness, and even Dixie gets involved. I thought Anderson would cost Bully the title, but AJ wins the match clean. I feel like they could've done a little more with it, but I'm definitely satisfied with how it ended. It was predictable, but the match was so good and AJ celebrating with the crowd made it such a great moment that I didn't care that it was predictable because we all wanted to see how it would go down.
There are probably gonna be people complaining about the show and saying it wasn't good. I thought the only low points of the show were the Ultimate X (go figure) and Sting vs Magnus. I believe Slammiversary was a better overall show, but Bound For Glory was more satisfying. We had title changes, the door opening for new feuds, and a new World Champion to lead TNA into the future. If Sting and Magnus was longer and Ultimate X had more spots, this show would've been better, but I'll give it a 7.5 out of 10. It was still a great show. For the people saying, "TNA is going nowhere" this show was better than anything WWE has done as of late.
Again, my apologies for this taking so long to get posted. I didn't have much time to write this up. I'll try and do a review for Hell in a Cell this Sunday as well. That show by itself is a mess, but I digress.
It's time to do my TNA Bound For Glory Predictions!
I wanna say, I haven't given up on watching WWE. It's like I said before, WWE has been doing some ridiculous things lately, but I remember how good that company used to be and I keep watching, hoping it will get better. But right now, I'm enjoying the product TNA has. They have familiar faces, new, fresh faces, better wrestling, and better feuds. I believe WWE has an overall better roster, but the difference is booking. TNA's booking is better. They give the title to the guy who's hot, and they give their fans what they want.
But if you guys, however you do it, watch Bound For Glory this Sunday, you won't be disappointed. Even if you're a first time viewer, if you like good pacing in wrestling matches and high flying matches, you will love this pay-per-view. Maybe I have high expectations, but this is TNA's WrestleMania, and the card they put together is fantastic.
For the WWE Fans out there, if you wanna catch up and be interested in these matches and the stories behind them, you still have time. There's still full TNA shows on YouTube you can watch where you can catch up on it. I suggest starting from October 3rd and on. It's only 3 shows. The Go-Home show for Bound For Glory was very well done.
For the TNA fans out there, I'm gonna go through each match and give my predictions.
Pre-Show Tag Team Gauntlet #1 Contenders Match
The BroMans vs Eric Young & Joseph Park vs Bad Influence vs Chavo & Hernandez
This match will be on the TNA Pre-Show on Spike TV at 7pm. The BroMans will enter the gauntlet last and the winning team will face James Storm & Gunner on the Bound For Glory pay-per-view. I believe The BroMans take this one for a few reasons.
First, as much as I would like to see Bad Influence win and put on a great match with Storm & Gunner, they've held the belts a few times. It doesn't really do anything for them anymore because they're already an established tag team. I don't think the belts do anything for Chavo & Hernandez either. I don't think Park & EY will be together that long, but I don't think they need the belts anyway. If they wanna establish The BroMans and push them to the next level, which I think they should, they should win this watch. They're a traditional tag team that haven't held the belts yet and a Tag Team Title match
would put them over.
Prediction: The BroMans win the Gauntlet match and get a Tag Title Shot
Kurt Angle gets inducted into TNA Hall of Fame
Also, on the preshow, Kurt Angle will the first inductee into the TNA Hall of Fame. Kurt Angle has done so much for this company over the last 7 years. He deserves it.
And NOW, we move on to the Main Show. I think the match order is KEY on this pay-per-view. There's so many good matches, you have to place them just right. So, I'm gonna go through the matches in the order I think they might happen.
Ultimate X Match for the X-Division Championship
Austin Aries vs Manik (c) vs Chris Sabin vs Jeff Hardy vs Samoa Joe
The X-Division is pretty much the cruiserweight division, but their motto was always, "No Limits" and pretty much anybody can compete. These X-Division matches are always so fast pace and full of high flying and when you these 5 guys in a match of this caliber, then you have a match that's gonna bring the people out of their seats. This will be an amazing way to open up the show.
The Ultimate X Match has been known for it's fair share of "HOLY S**T!" moments. Guys like Aries, Sabin, Samoa Joe, and Manik have been in this match. This is Jeff Hardy's first Ultimate X Match. For the fans that have followed TNA, they know how good Ultimate X matches can be with the right people. These 5 guys can put on an epic match. Joe is big, but can move so good, you wouldn't know it. Aries is a phenomenal wrestler and balance high-flying and mat wrestling and make it like a work of art. That man is too good. Sabin is also a great worker. The WWE fans know how crazy Jeff Hardy is in high-risk matches so you know he's gonna do something crazy. And then you Manik who is so athletic and can pull of great high flying moves, like a luchador. Sorta like a Rey Mysterio in his prime.
As far as my prediction, I either give it to Manik, or Sabin. Austin Aries is a main event talent. I believe he's in this match because he has nothing else to do at the show. The X-Division is below him, in my opinion, but he's there to add star power and add a layer to this match. Same with Joe. I don't think Joe needs the title. Jeff Hardy has never been X-Division Champion, but I don't think he needs it either. He's above that division as well. He's more of a main eventer. I think Manik is gonna retain here. I believe TNA is ready to push Manik as a great talent. I don't think Sabin needs the belt at this moment. Having Manik go over Sabin, Joe, Hardy & Aries would establish him as a great X-Division Champion and make that title look so much more prestigious.
These 5 guys are gonna open the show and tear the F'n house down.
Prediction: Manik retains the X-Division Championship
The Debut of Ethan Carter III
Quickly, here's a promo video of Ethan.
For a few weeks now, they've been showing these vignetter saying "Ethan Is Coming" constantly and now they're saving his debut for Bound For Glory. The guy is Derrick Bateman, a former WWE talent. I think he's being booked as having a relation to TNA owner Dixie Carter. Bateman is good, funny on the mic with some good charisma, and he's solid in the ring. Look up some of his stuff in NXT. I'm not so sure who he'll face, or how he'll enter of whatever, but I see some potential in him. I'm not too sure of his gimmick, like a Movie Star, or something? Either way, I say his debut goes on second, get it out of the way quick and let's see what we can do.
Magnus vs Sting
I'm pretty sure wrestling fans know who Sting is. But this Magnus guy, he's pretty damn good. He's built, athletic, doesn't botch a lot, executes moves good and he just flows in the ring. He's a Manchester, England native and you can hear it in his mic work, in which he is great. His mic delivery is great. Getting into the match, the story is a classic "passing of the torch" moment. Magnus wants to prove himself by beating one of the greatest in the business, Sting.
Even at his age, Sting can still put on some good matches. I believe Magnus and Sting are good enough to go out there and put on a great match. I believe there's gonna be some good storytelling in this match with solid in-ring work. The win should go to Magnus here. I believe TNA is ready to push Magnus to that upper echelon main event level. He's got the look, mic work, and wrestling ability to be the face of TNA and this is just the beginning. Sting should put Magnus over clean and pass the torch. I don't think they'll turn Magnus heel at the end, but a handshake, or show of respect at the end would work too.
Prediction: Magnus defeats Sting
Triple Threat Match for the TNA Knockouts Championship
ODB (c) vs Gail Kim vs Brooke Tessmacher
You see, unlike WWE, TNA actually gives a crap about their female wrestling division. You've got three great female wrestlers competing for the Championship. Gail Kim, most of you might remember from WWE, is far and away the best female wrestler right now. Her in-ring work is on another level. Brooke and ODB are equally as good in the ring. ODB won the belt from Mickie James last month and Gail Kim and Brooke had to win matches to earn a shot at the title. I think these females will get, at most, 10 minutes, or more to go out there and put on a good female wrestling match. Gail and Brooke are technical and ODB is more a mix of that and a powerhouse.
If it was up to me, I say ODB drops the belt to Gail Kim. Gail has put over a lot of women and it's time she wins the Knockouts Championship. I don't think Brooke needs the belt right now anyway and ODB hasn't really done much with the belt. The only way I see TNA having ODB keep the belt is if they want her to face off with Lei'D Tapa, that giant Amazon looking woman who's been attacking the knockouts as of late.
I think the Knockouts Championship should change hands and it should go to Gail Kim. But I can see them having ODB leave with the belt still in her possession.
Prediction: Gail Kim wins the TNA Knockouts Championship
Kurt Angle vs Bobby Roode
When you think of matches with the potential to steal the show, you go back to WrestleMania 21 where Kurt Angle stole the show with Shawn Michaels. This is going to be the best wrestling match on the card. Kurt Angle is still at a level where he can put on fantastic matches, and Bobby Roode is such a great talent in the ring. It's hard to really pinpoint everything because he's so damn good in the ring. The way he carries himself, the way he tells a story in the ring, ring psychology, etc. Like his gimmick says, he truly is The "It Factor" of professional wrestling. His in-ring work is amazing.
But the story behind this match is how Roode thinks he should be in the TNA Hall of Fame over Kurt Angle. Their promo exchange last Thursday, and even the week before sold me on this match. We already know how great these two are in the ring, but they sold the match even more with their mic work. If they give these guys 25-30 minutes in the ring, they can go out there and put on phenomenal match. These two can tell a story, work the crowd, keep a good pace, and have fluid exchanges. If these two work a long match, it can be a potential Match of the Year Candidate.
I see Angle winning. He gets inducted into the Hall of Fame on the pre-show and after his return, it's hard to see him losing. But of course, there are ways to make Angle win and still have Bobby Roode look strong. Just like they did with Angle and HBK at Mania 21 and like HBK/Y2J at Mania 19, for example. If the Ultimate X Match doesn't steal the show, then this definitely will.
Prediction: Kurt Angle defeats Bobby Roode
TNA Tag Team Championship Match
Gunner & James Storm vs Preshow Gauntlet Winners
I already gave my prediction for the Gauntlet Match and had The BroMans winning so it'll be Gunner & Storm vs The BroMans for the tag titles. Gunner & Storm are a badass looking duo with the wrestling ability to back it up, especially Gunner. Storm is good in the ring, but Gunner has a cool factor to him.
But the way they've been booking The Tag Titles recently, it's time Gunner and Storm dropped them. They don't looked like they're getting a push. The titles, at this point, would do more for The BroMans than for Gunner & Storm. But I think some fishy will go down. BroMans gotta win in heel fashion due to an interference by another of some sort. Maybe Bad Influence come down and screw Storm & Gunner out of the tag titles. BroMans win the belts and move on to Park & EY as they've been feuding recently.
Prediction: The BroMans win the TNA Tag Team Championship
No Disqualification Match for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship
AJ Styles vs Bully Ray (c)
It all leads to this. AJ Styles challenges Bully Ray for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship. AJ Styles won the Bound For Glory Series, is going through a side feud with TNA Owner Dixie Carter, and now has to face Bully Ray. Bully Ray has been the best heel in the wrestling business. Whenever he gets on the mic, he is GOLD. He's able to get himself over as a heel, the way he carries himself, his violent actions, and overall charisma, energy and delivery on the mic makes the best heel in the business. He's not watered down and was booked as a dominant heel Champion. The way he is makes him look like nobody would mess with him.
And the you have AJ Styles. In my opinion, he's the best wrestler in TNA. His moveset is out of this world. He used to be all about high-flying spots and phenomenal moves, giving him his name, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. Now, his current "I Stand Alone" gimmick, made him more aggressive in the ring, mixing mat wrestling and his Phenomenal moveset. Styles is my favorite wrestler in the company and has come a long way. This is a true redemption storyline. His life was in shambles, he left for a while, and came back as a different person and now he's battled back to fight The World Heavyweight Champion.
Bully Ray is great at execution, ring psychology, and takes solid bumps. But because of his character, he thrives in a match where anything goes, hence why this match has a No DQ stipulation. The way they've built this match will make the storytelling in the ring something to see. I expect these guys to go all out. I expect AJ to pull out all the stops and I expect Bully Ray to put on the best match of his career with this guy. But who wins?
The TNA Bound For Glory Series winner has won the last 2 years, but it has been far too obvious that they're gonna go for a 3-peat. I feel like something fishy will happen. Dixie might get involved, the rest of the Aces an 8's might get involved, but I don't think after all this that Bully will walk out with the title. I wanna call this now; Mr. Anderson will return and cost Bully ray the title. If they don't wanna have AJ go over clean, then I think this is the route to go. After Anderson got piledriven on the stage, that scenario popped in my head. So, if they want AJ to go over clean, let him go over clean. If not, I want to see that scenario happen.
Either way, this is AJ's Time.
Prediction: AJ Styles wins the TNA World Heavyweight Championship
I normally don't do blog posts about TNA, but ever since this past Summer, I've gotten back into watching TNA after not watching it for 4 years before hand. THIS is the show you're gonna want to see. I know I'm gonna watch it this Sunday because I expect TNA to put on a 5 Star Show. For those, that are looking for something different than WWE, I promise you won't be disappointed by this show. TNA knows what time it is and this their chance to make some noise if they haven't already.
