RizzoSports Blog

Football Club Rankings

2011-12-02T14:15:00.002-05:00

If your looking for our popular World Football Club Rankings -

Check them out here: www.FootballClubRankings.com

Kittanning Paper Football Pick'em

2011-09-08T15:23:00.001-04:00

Don't forget to sign up for ESPN NFL Pick'em Game - It's free -once you join search for the "Kittanning Paper Group"

2011 High School Football Radio Schedule

2011-08-30T07:41:00.004-04:00

Here's the 2011 High School Football Broadcast as it currently stands.

As of now all games will be only on WTYM Radio 1380 AM - and can also be heard live on www.wtymradio.com

> Week 1 - Kittanning vs. Ford City
> Week 2 - Kittanning @ Plum
> Week 3 - West Shamokin vs Burrell
> Week 4 - Kittanning vs Highlands
> Week 5 - Ford City @ Freeport
> Week 6 - Kittanning vs Valley
> Week 7 - Ford City @ West Shamokin
> Week 8 - Ford City @ Apollo
> Week 9 - Apollo @ West Shamokin

It looks like a good mix of games. Kittanning (4) Ford City (4) West Shamokin (3)

2011 Fall High School Sports

2011-08-15T10:23:00.002-04:00

2011 Fall High School Sports start today, with official practices.

We'll once again be doing High School Football Rankings after week 1.

You can also go the RizzoSports.com to oick a winner between, Kittanning and Ford City in week 1.

MLB Realignment

2011-06-14T10:00:00.002-04:00

There is chatter about MLB realigning. I believe it’s a good idea should have happened a while ago. The simplest move is to send Houston the AL West. This would give each league 15 teams, all with 5 teams per division. Houston would get division games against rival Texas and it seems to make sense.

Divisions – There is a lot of talk about going back to two divisions per league or removing divisions all together. I’m not against those ideas at the moment but think three divisions of 5 teams would work just fine.

Interleague – The only thing I suggest is getting rid of the home and away series against your rival. Seeing the Mets vs. Yankees only 3 times a season certainly makes those games more interesting.

Playoffs – Never allow for more than four playoff teams per league. Period.

Conclusion – With Bud Selig still calling the shots, history tells us the logical move will probably not be implemented, so that’s what should worry everyone.

AC Milan Boateng Moonwalk Celebration

2011-05-15T10:45:00.007-04:00

As organized championship celebrations go, most are pretty lame, there is normally some type of parade followed by various anticlimactic and proper grammar lacking player speeches.

AC Milan's 2011 Serie A championship celebration stated out with a massive parade through the streets Milan. Then lead to their stadium, as they still had a game to play (they won 4-1), then followed by the trophy presentation. Finally Kevin Prince Boateng's Michael Jackson impersonation, followed by fireworks. The bar has now been raised.

Update: After the dance, Genoa who currently own Boateng's rights jokingly raised his price on account of his dancing ability.

For more photos of Milan's celebration via their official site: Piazza Duomo - go here or San Siro - go here.

NCAA Basketball Poll

2011-03-10T13:25:00.002-05:00

It's tournament time, and once again we're doing a FLTV / WTYM / Kittanning Paper - college basketball poll.

Once you create an entry on http://games.espn.go.com/frontpage - just search "kittanning" / "FLTV" under join a public group.

January Football / Soccer Transfer Review

2011-02-01T07:52:00.004-05:00

The January Transfer window certainly ended on a high tone. Liverpool and Chelsea splashed out a lot of cash, but was it money well spent? I guess we’ll have to find out.

Winners:

Manchester City – I think Edin Dzeko was the best player to move – A lot of money, but should mean they’ll finish in the top 4.

Inter Milan - Andrea Ranocchia, Yuto Nagatomo, Giampaolo Pazzini, Houssine Kharja – Milan acquired two defenders who will help in the Champions League, Pazzini should be a long term option, especially since it looks like Milto is aging fast. Kharja is will help them in Serie A and Coppa. Nagatomo could be the real head turner.

Chelsea – They received a non cup tied Torres and help in defense with Luiz, who could be a future foundation. However they spent way too much money, and this signals an all out push for trophies as their famous core is running out of years.

AC Milan - I think AC Milan as added enough able bodies to see with the Scudetto.

Undecided

Liverpool - If Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez can stay healthy, they should eventually cover their costs.

Manchester United – They must either be broke or think their set, we’ll see.

Real Madrid - Emmanuel Adebayor will he help, who knows.

Losers

Roma – We know their broke, but for a team fighting for a top 4 finish, and still in the Champion’s League, you would think they would have like to added some reinforcements.

Juventus - They're acting like a team with out a plan, it seems they don't one.

2011 Sports Predictions

2010-12-31T13:45:00.002-05:00

We're back with the world famous New Year's Eve Sports Predictions - Here's what we see happening in 2011.

This will be the year of NCAA Scandals - Ohio State is only a foreshadow of major violations to come.

For the local fans, the Pens will win the Stanley Cup in 2011.

Philly will have 3 - 20 game winners.

In another bold prediction - Barcelona will not win the Champions League.

And finally just like last year, but we mean it this time the Detroit Lions will make the NFL Playoffs.

Another NFL SideLine Hit

2010-12-20T11:17:00.003-05:00

Surprise, surprise another NFL sideline hit, this one seems a little more thought out then the now famous Jets trip.

<a href="http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-us&brand=foxsports&from=foxsports_en-us_videocentral&vid=3875aa2e-5503-4e09-b64f-00d24b45c6ec" target="_new" title="Glazer's Edge: Another trip">Video: Glazer's Edge: Another trip</a>

How to Improve the UEFA Champions League

2010-12-07T13:20:00.004-05:00

The Group Stage of the 2010-11 UEFA Champions League has been dull to say the least. There is very little on the line in the final round. In most cases there are 2 good teams per group and two…..shall we say lesser quality teams. It’s impossible not to acknowledge the quality of play has improved across Europe over the last decade. However during that time, the big clubs have become even more powerful, and now a group of super elite teams is emerging. We have a couple quick and simple suggestions to improve the quality of the Group Stage and Champions League all together.

1. Europa League winner from the previous year is automatically entered into the group stage of the next Champions League – This helps the Europa League the most, but it also gives 3rd place group knock-outs something to strive for.
2. Give the 4th placed league in the UEFA coefficients system - Germany / Italy a fourth team. The fourth place teams from those leagues are way better then the champions of Latvia, Iceland, Moldova, etc.
3. Give the 7th league 3 places.
4. Give the top ranked league all 4 four Champion League places in the Group Stage.
5. Only give the 15th place country 1 CL place.

This system would give 1-4 (4 teams into the CL) 5-7 (3 teams into the CL)

Based on the current coefficients it would look like this.

#1 - England – 4 teams in Group Stage
#2,3,4 - Spain, Italy, Germany – 9 in Group Stage with the possibility of 12
#5,6 - France, Portugal – 4 in the Group Stage with the possibility of 6
#7 – Russia, one in the Group Stage with the possibility of 3
#8-#14 – The chance to have two club reach the Group Stage.

Right now you can argue there are only about 8 super elite teams with a chance to the win the Champions League. If you enter in more big clubs you, might be able to level the playing field between the big clubs and what we call the super elite clubs. The best thing for UEFA is not to have small clubs in the Champions League it’s would be to have 20 teams with a chance to win the Champions League. This also would be good for the big and mid level domestic leagues as well.

Headed Towards BCS Chaos

2010-10-18T14:32:00.000-04:00

This will be the year that will cause changes to the college football postseason. Again on Saturday Night another #1 team, this time Ohio State, went down. The only two unbeaten teams at the end of the season very well could be Boise State and TCU. There are still 14 teams who play in BCS Conferences with either one loss or less. I don’t think there is anyway come December that at least seven teams don’t have cases to play for the title. The other thing that will be a factor is five conferences will make claims their teams are the best. We have title contenders spread out across every region of the country. A lot can happened between now and then, but instead of clearing up it could get cloudier.

World's Largest Water Ballon Fight.

2010-09-22T15:32:00.004-04:00

For some reason a minor league baseball team didn't think of this, but regardless it's awesome.

2010 European Soccer / Football Preview

2010-08-27T08:00:00.012-04:00

The summer of 2010 was certainly a lot clammier than 2009, only Manchester City really splashed out the big bucks this year. However AC Milan’s last second move for Ibrahimovic has completely shaken up European Football and Javier Mascherano going to Barcelona completes their squad.

EPL

The EPL title is Chelsea’s to lose. They might not have improved much, but neither has United, Arsenal, or Liverpool. Chelsea is the most consistent team in the EPL and only a long Champions League run will hurt their chances for this title.

1. Chelsea - This could be their best shot ever at winning both the EPL and Champions League.
2. Arsenal – Picking Arsenal is always some what of a gamble, but each year they’re right in the hunt.
3. Manchester City – The only reason we didn’t pick them to win it, is because they have too many egos to gel in one season. Balotelli will go down as the greatest signing in history of football, and on paper hey have as much talent as anyone.
4. Man United – Things could get crazy if Man City is able to over take them. We just don’t have a good feeling about United this season.

The Rest – Liverpool will still be adapting to a new coach, don’t be surprised if this season is one to forget. Tottenham will be too busy with the Champions League. With Man City and Liverpool focusing heavily on the EPL title, there is little chance for any other teams to break the top four.

Serie A

Serie A might have the most competitive top 10 teams in any league in recent memory. So many teams will have a chance at the Champions League this campaign.

1. Inter Milan – They have an awful lot of talent, but you have to wonder if Milto and Sneijder can match what they did last season. Look for a lot more goals from Eto’o this year.
2. AC Milan – Everyone is down on them, but we expect the Ibra deal to be done, which will either totally change the team for the better or hurt it long term. If they can stay healthy, you have to like their chances with that offense.
3. Juventus – We’re not a fan of the 4-4-2 system. With the players they have it’s probably the wrong formation. With so many stars on one roster it could be a combustible situation in Turin. However they might have the best second string squad in the world.
4. Napoli – After a few years of build up Napoli finally has a Scudetto contending team.

The Rest – There are five other teams who could finish in the top 4. Starting with Roma, but they could be hurt by a decent Champions League run. Genoa has had the best transfer campaign in Serie A and is just about everyone’s darkhorse. Palermo will be in the mix to the end as it’s tough to go to Sicily and win. Florentina, without the European Leagues to worry about could be surprise contenders.

La Liga

This campaign could be more of the same as Real and Barc look miles ahead of the competition. Jose Mourinho has a simple mission, and that’s to win the league title and Champions League, and of course beat Barcelona at all costs. The real question for fans in Spain is if any other team will be able to step up and mount some type of challenge.

1. Real Madrid – Real have enough fire power to win the La Liga. However can the Special One handle so many stars?
2. Barcelona – The Mourinho mind games will cause them to slip up in league play.

Germany – It should be all Bayern again this year. However look for German teams to struggle a bit in European competitions. However ~~Juventus~~ Wolfsburg with Dezko and Diego could be a force.

France – Marseille will look to retain their title. Lyon will have a chance thanks to picking up Gourcuff.

Europa League

It might be the hardest trophy to win, and this year it will have some definite star power. We believe the winner should get an automatic bid into qualifying for the Champions League the following season. Juventus are the favorites, followed by Man City. Liverpool could shift their focus to this trophy especially if their Premier League chances look bleak. Also keep your eye on two up and coming Italian team, Napoli and Palermo.

Champions League

The most important annual trophy in the world of sports, is also one of the hardest to defend. However this year the bottom 16 teams aren’t that strong. We know this is the Championship of Europe, but they’re ton of teams with knock-out stage talent sitting on the sidelines. Maybe even magnified this year, there are only a handful of teams capable of winning this trophy. Starting at the top, I think you need to look at Chelsea, Inter Milan, Barcelona, and Real Madrid. However it probably will take Jose Mourinho two years to build the European contender he wants. Right now I’m not sure they have the defense to win this trophy, however with their attack they just might outscore everyone. In less the rest of La Liga can get it together and challenge Real or Barc, these teams have an advantage in the Champions League.

Inter will not go out easy, but they have a tough schedule with the World Championships and Serie A, not to mention a new coach. Chelsea have as good as chance as anyone, and they might have some extra focus this season.

If you start thinking about tier two teams, you have Bayern, Man U, Arsenal, AC Milan and look for Roma to be a surprise outfit. With the Champions League it always comes down to the draw in the knock out rounds, so we’ll find out.

Contenders – Chelsea, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid

Line 2 – Bayern, Arsenal, Man Untied, AC Milan, Roma, Marseille

It should be an entertaining season, and don’t forget to the check out our bi-weekly World Soccer / Football Club Rankings

Join Are College Football Pick'em Group

2010-08-26T15:04:00.001-04:00

We’re only one week away from the start of the college football season. Remember: Pitt opens up against Utah next Thursday Night. PSU starts next Saturday against Youngstown St. I created a group for ESPN’s free college Pick’em Game. All you have to do is create an entry and search for the “Kittanning Paper” group. Similar to what we did with the NCAA poll last spring. Each week we’ll pick the winners of 10 games. I encourage you to check it out.

Inter vs. Man City, Biggest Soccer game of 2010 in USA

2010-07-30T07:37:00.002-04:00

You can argue Inter Milan vs. Manchester City is the most important soccer game to be played on US soil this year. Even thought it's just a preseason game. It certainly is the most interesting. First off, Inter Milan in defending Champions of Europe, this will be the first game for their new head coach Rafa Benitez. Man City has spend like a trillion dollars this summer on players. Which team will Mario Balotelli play for, I doubt he plays at all. The game will only be live on ESPN Deportes tomorrow (Saturday) at 8:00pm.

Spies inside Women's Tennis?

2010-07-28T08:18:00.022-04:00

With all the spy news, it made us wonder if any one from the sporting world is involved in espionage. In the tennis world you have many women who moved to America at a young age, and assimilate into the culture, learn the language, and yet still return to their native countries for tennis matches. Coincidence? Have we finally figured out why Kournkova never got any better, she was too busy working on other things.

Maybe we should investigate these WTA players a little closer.

Jelean Jankovic
Bio:
Born: Belgrade, Serbia
Resides: Dubai
Insight: We'll JJ doesn't live in the US, but we know she spends a lot of time here. She speaks numerous languages, and loves to travel. We also know that she has infiltrated the highest level of the political circles as evidence by this picture. Besides Jelena just has the spy look.

Maria Kirilenko
Bio:
Born: Moscow, Russia
Resides: Moscow, Russia
Insight: She lives in Moscow, and that automatically puts her on the list. We'll not a super well known tennis player, she has been seen at some high profile social events here in the US. She's into fashion and as we've learned recently that too is a red flag. She's also a player who never really lived up to her potential, could she have been side tracked by other responsibilities????

Maria Sharapova
Bio:
Born: Nyagan, Russia
Resides: Bradenton, Florida
Insight: The most famous Russian tennis player, it would seem too obvious. But could she be living a double life? She moved to America at a young age, to train at the Bollettieri Tennis Academy. At age 9 IMG paid her $35k tuition fee, or was it the KGB??? We also know that she is an expert photographer. There definitely is a lot of dots that can be connected here.

Dominika Cibulková
Bio:
Born: Bratislava, Slovakia
Resides: Piešťany, Czechoslovakia
Insight: If you just said who is Dominika Cibulkova, we rest our case. See right under the radar.

RizzoSports - is not accusing any of this four nice young ladies as being spies, we're just saying ~~Tiger~~ athletes can some times have double lives...

Will Notre Dame Move Forward Under Kelly

2010-07-21T22:35:00.000-04:00

I know a lot of eyes will be on Notre Dame and their new head coach Brian Kelly. Everyone knows Kelly is going with the spread offense, but forget about offense the Irish need defense. This year under new defense coordinator Bob Diaco, they’re moving to a 3-4 defense. Their defensive recruiting class was not highly rated, so unless someone emerges out of no where, they’ll probably struggle. While the buzz word on campus is “new”, I have the feeling their same “old” defense will again be their downfall. By the time they play Pitt in early October, I think we’ll know if Kelly is man or not.

USA Soccer Advances in the Most Dramatic Fashion

2010-06-23T18:51:00.005-04:00

If you wanted to increase fan interest in US Soccer, you couldn’t have drawn up a more perfect group stage round. The nation is now captivated. Most soccer people assumed the US would advance out of their group, however every game for the US has been drama, controversy and more drama. Since they’ve scored one more group goal then England, they’re luckily paired with, Uruguay, Korea, and Ghana, instead of Argentina, Mexico and Germany. The US will play Ghana next, and I actually know a lot about Ghana since most of their players have Serie A connections. I’ll tell you, they have more talent than the US. However this US team has everything going their way at the moment and their path to the semifinals has couldn’t be better.

For our latest World Cup thoughts - follow us on twitter - @rizzosports

photo: babasteve

USA vs. Algeria, who will Advance?

2010-06-22T20:14:00.001-04:00

It will be a wild day at the World Cup. Heading into the final group stage game, all four members of the USA’s group have a chance to advance. The USA vs. Algeria game will be played at the same time as England vs. Slovenia. The USA will advance with a win, but will only advance on a tie if England ties or loses. I fully expect England to win, so the US will have to win too. However Algeria needs a win to have a chance to advance, therefore they’ll be playing all out, which could help the USA’s counter attack. With a win the US could win the group, but really all that matters is making it to the round of 16. I don’t think Algeria should be taken lightly they play a style very similar to the US, and it could be a back and forth game.

USA Soccer has a Golden Opportunity

2010-06-17T23:06:00.000-04:00

For the time in history, the USA will have more talent then two of their World Cup Group opponents. Their opportunity is now, starting today at 10:00 against Slovenia, and again on the 23rd against Algeria. If they can win both of these games, they’ll get an unprecedented amount of fanfare. Of course a win is not a given. The USA still lacks the midfield and defensive players, capable of holding possession and setting up attacks. They depend too much on the counter attack for their offense. This makes them both dangerous against the top teams and susceptible against weaker teams. With that said, if they finish their group with 2 wins, and tie vs. England, fan interest will be through the roof. The England game meant nothing, the key since the schedule came out was today’s game.

NBA Finals Will Cap a Marquee Day for Sports

2010-06-17T08:20:00.000-04:00

It’s hard to believe so many big events are going on in the sports world tomorrow. The US Open tees off at Pebble Beach tomorrow with Tiger & Phil in the field. The second round of the World Cup’s group stage is taking place. Closer to home we’ll probably see Pedro Alverez’s second game in a Pirates uniform. I know most Pirate fans are intrigued to see if he can change things around or if the train wreck of a season will continue. Finally the night wraps up with game seven of the NBA Finals, as either Boston or LA will win the Championship. Yes, they’re still playing basketball. I’m not sure how many local guys follow the NBA but either way game sevens are almost always memorable.

More College Football Reshuffling?

2010-06-15T22:10:00.000-04:00

It looks like the college football world won’t be completely reshuffled, at least for now. I think we were one school away from all the dominos falling. As of now all that has changed is Colorado moving to the PAC-10, Nebraska joining the Big10, and Boise State headed to the Mountain West. The world of collegiate conferences is complex and confusing especially in football where less than half the Divison-1 basketball schools have top level football programs.

It’s also crazy to think the Big East, which is centered in economic hub of country, is always in jeopardy of breaking apart. If Temple ever had a good football program they would probably be in the Big East. Buffalo could also be an option. I could see the Pac-10 going after one more school, and the Big 12 trying to add a couple schools. TCU, SMU, Houston, Memphis to name a few. Now the large conferences might start looking towards the smaller conferences instead of each other.

USA happy with tie vs. England

2010-06-14T07:30:00.001-04:00

The US are happy with a 1-1 tie against England, however, everything still rests on them defeating Slovenia this Friday. It certainly wasn’t a good showcase game for the World Cup. The USA played an above average game but England played poorly and used the wrong tactics against the US. It was to the USA’s advantage they played England in opening game and not the third game. The English is theory would have been a little more crisp. I think the organization for the US was good and they were disruptive enough on defense. The offense is still a question mark and I hope they consider swapping a forward for a midfielder these next two games. With five midfielders I think they would be able to control the game better against a weaker opponent. People will tell you that the USA plays down to lesser opponents. This is because the USA are a north/south team. When they have to posses the ball in holding, they're not nearly as fluid as most nations. However based on what I saw this weekend the US should advance past the group stage. Now everyone is just waiting for Friday.

2010 World Cup South Africa Preview

2010-06-10T08:53:00.006-04:00

It's hard to make any predictions about the 2010 World Cup. I can see a weakness in every squad. I think Spain, Brazil, England, France, Italy, Germany, Argentina, and Netherlands are by far the eight best teams. So much so that if those 8 nations bought another 23 man team, they'll still be favorites. However for the last 50 plus years, European teams win when playing in Europe, and South America teams win, when playing outside of Europe. Actually I don't think a European Team has won it, out side of Europe.

The thing about soccer is the margin of victory is so slim. Therefore it allows for many upsets. A clearly superior team might get 9 good opportunities in a game, while their less talented opponents might get 3. However add a bit of luck and what happens with those few chances determine a game. Also FIFA seems more likely to give out cards, and if you team goes down a man, the chance of victory goes with it.

The World Cup is in South Africa, so I’m not going to be surprised if an African nation reaches the semis. For years people have been saying this could be the year an African teams breaks though. However no one is showing too much faith in any of African nations in 2010. Those teams have greatly improved over the last 25 years, but many other countries have improved even more. I will not be surprised if there are a ton of upsets, or if controvesry rules the tournament. All through the past year I was thinking of picking England, because I thought they were due to win, but I think Brazil has best defense so I’m going with them.

I'm just excited to see all the teams play. Will Argentina's defense be good enough? Can Italy recapture their form. What crazy thing will happen in an England game. How will teams try to stop Spain? Who will be the sleeper team and player? It should make for some of the greatest sports theater ever seen.

Italy (2) could win the World Cup

2010-06-03T16:04:00.005-04:00

If the World Cup was like Olympic bobsled, and each country could have multiple entries, it would really be interesting. Really what separates the best countries from the rest is the quality of player they leave at home. Italy's second roster would have one of best attacks in the world, and would have to be considered an outside contender if this team was in the tournament. Certainly they would pose a real threat to the current Italian Squad and everyone of these guys would probably start for the US. Here is who I would start in 4-2-3-1 system for team Italy(2).

Borriello/Balotelli
Rossi - Cassano/Totti/Cossu - Miccoli
Nocerino - Aquilani
Antonini/Molinaro-Barzagli-Cannavaro-Cassani
Amelia/Sirigu

I like Balotelli's ability/speed to open up the field, but Borriello can score inside the box. I'd probably start Borriello and leave Balotelli as my ace in the hole for a goal in the 2nd. Just behind them you would have the super dynamic Miccoli, Rossi is great shooter, and of course Cassano can distribute. I'm still not sure about Cassano for 90 mins, but Totti could fill his role or the role of any attacker. I'm a little worried about defense or lack there of from the front four.

Behind the attackers you need some type of muscle, that why I'm going with Nocerino. Aquilani might be a little better served up the field, but I need to get his talent on the field. Candreva would be an option too, Ambrosini and Brighti add defense and veteran leadership.

If you wanted to go defensive you could bring a defensive midfielder like an Ambrosini, Brighi, or Abate for one of the attackers. If you wanted to add even more defense, bring on wingback like Molinaro or De Silvestri to play in a defensive midfield role

As for the defense, let me admit it's probably not the best in the world, but it has some more than capable players. I like what Antonini brought to Milan this season, and add the vertern Grosso to the mix to complete the left. On the right I like Cassani, who had a wonderful season a Palermo. Barzagli has been great in Germany, and I don't many people we argue that best Cannavaro brother currently is the younger.

As for the goalies, none are elite, but all would start for at least half the World Cup teams.

Complete Roster: (age)

F - Alessandro Matri (25), Amauri (29), Marco Borriello (27), Francesco Totti (33) Mario Balotelli (20)

M - Andrea Cossu (30), Alberto Aquilani (25), Antonio Candreva (23), Massimo Ambrosini (33), Ignazio Abate (23) MatteoBrighi (29) Antonio Nocerino (25) Andrea Poli (20)

D - Mattia Cassani (26), Fabio Grosso (32), Andrea Barzagli(29), Luca Antonini (27) Lorenzo De Silvestri (22) Paolo Cannavaro (28) Cristian Molinaro (26)

G - Christian Abbiati(32), Salvatore Sirigu(23) Marco Amelia(28)

The rest of the roster has a couple great target men in Marti and Amauri. Poli has been one of the best young players in Europe this pass season and Cossu can also provide creativity. My only concern is lack of depth at centerback, but I think Cassani could move in if needed.

Remember there are a couple of other guys like Staton and Ranocchia who can't play do to injury. Also if Nesta wanted to return to international football, he would be included if Lippi didn't take him frist.

What do you think of Italy (2)

No Instant Reply in Baseball.

2010-06-03T13:55:00.001-04:00

Everyone is upset about the bad call in Wednesday Night’s Tigers game, which cost Armando Galarraga a perfect game. Even worse everyone is calling for instant reply in baseball. I hope we never see it happen. First off everyone needs to chill out, Detroit still won the game. I’ve seen bad calls hurt teams in more critical situations and on much bigger stages. It’s bad luck for Galarraga but its part of the game. Actually this will probably make him more famous than if he actually had a perfect game. I think instant reply has slowed down football, and more importantly cause the officiating to become worst. This is America it’s our God given right to complain about umpires. The only flag I want to see John Russell throw out of the Pirates’ dugout is a white flag signaling surrender.

Inter vs. Bayern in Champions League Final

2010-05-20T21:00:00.000-04:00

It will be Inter Milan vs. Bayern Munich in Madrid for the European Cup. The match will be live Saturday at 2:30 on Fox Sports and should draw more viewers world wide than the Super Bowl. This tournament started 11 months with the top domestic clubs from across the Europe. Inter Milan has probably the best defensive squad I ever seen, and are universally favored; however anything can happen during one game. It also features the most talked about and powerful coach in the world, Jose Mourinho. This match wraps up the European club season with the major trophies going to:

English Premier League: Chelsea
Spain La Liga: Barcelona
Italy Serie A: Inter Milan
Germany Bundesliga: Bayern Munich
France Ligue 1: Marseille,
Europa League: Athletico Madrid

Tiger Should Have Skipped the Masters.

2010-04-07T23:14:00.001-04:00

If Tiger Woods really wanted to do the right thing he would have skipped the Masters. Playing shows he’s certainly putting himself first. Lucky for Tiger his whole ordeal went down in the winter, and he has missed no major tournaments. Sure he lost a few sponsors, and probably could have won a $1m or so golfing this year, but when you’re worth a couple hundred million who cares. I’m sure he believes that in a couple of years, he’ll have the most majors and public resentment will be long gone. He should’ve said I’m ready to play, but with everything that happened, I’m going to punish myself and withdrawal from the Masters. I guess missing a shot at another major is too important to miss.

MLB Play of the Year: Mark Buehrle

2010-04-06T16:01:00.003-04:00

It was only opening day, but I doubt we'll see a better play this year than this MarkBuehrle gem.

Great Final Four - Match-ups

2010-04-02T07:44:00.001-04:00

It’s a really interesting Final Four, with two great match-ups scheduled on Saturday.

Duke is a perfect match-up for WVU. I think West Virginia’s forwards will match-up well against Duke, who has a tall team. Butler versus Michigan St. is also a great game, as no one expected these two teams to be here. It is going to be real interesting to see how much of a home court advantage Butler will have. How often does a team from a non major conference win the NCAA Tournament? The last time a non BCS conference team won was 1990 with UNLV. A team from a school as small as Butler is unprecedented in modern sports. Anyone of these four teams could win it, and nothing would surprise me with this bunch, and this is what will make these games so intriguing.

Happy Easter!!!

Butler / Boise St. to the Big East

2010-03-30T15:29:00.006-04:00

Butler University is the talk about the basketball world as they have reached the Final Four in their home city of Indianapolis. They have an excellent chance against Michigan St. their semi-final opponent. Needless to say they have been a solid basketball program for many years now, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they figure out a way to win this year’s Title. If things get crazy this summer and a school, say Rutgers leaves the Big East, the conference could invite Butler to join. This would be awesome for basketball, and since Butler doesn’t have D1 football team, the door would be open for Boise St. to join as a football only school. Yes Boise St. and even with them being in Idaho, it's not a problem from a football standpoint. You figure that's four trips a year for them to a Big East school, which will give them alot more exposure. It's only 1 trip a every two years for Big East Football Teams so doesn't seem to be a problem either. It certainly would let Boise St. prove it on a bigger stage. I think fan interest would be high, as even the casual college football fan would be interested in how Boise St. does in the Big East. This also adds two of the most famous venues in college sports with Hinkle Fieldhouse and the Blue Turf. Now wouldn’t a Butler/Boise St. combo, make the Big East better and of course more interesting?

Government Takeover of Pro Sports?

2010-03-23T07:44:00.002-04:00

Now that the government has taken over the health care industry, are pro sports next? If they think some CEOs make too much, what do they think about Joe Mauer’s new eight year $184 million contract? Of course with unemployment the way it is, these sports salaries and ticket prices look even more ridiculous. However I highly doubt any government, state or federal will get involved in sports unless it’s to give taxpayer dollars to finance the next stadium. Congress much rather have you spend eight a day watching football, then worrying about what their doing. Remember to take a break from CSPAN — Watch my show tonight 7:30 live on Family-Life TV, and don’t forget to call in with your questions and opinions.

Champions League Draw: QuaterFinals

2010-03-19T07:46:00.004-04:00

Inter vs. CSKA Moscow
Arsenal vs. Barcelona

Bayern Munich vs. Manchester United
Bordeaux vs. Lyon

Mike's Picks - Inter, Barcelona, Bayern, Bordeaux

NCAA Basketball Favorite & KP Bracket.

2010-03-15T07:37:00.001-04:00

I know everyone can’t wait to fill out their brackets, so I’ve created a Kittanning Paper Group on ESPN.com. If you sign up for the free ESPN Tournament Challenge, click on join a group, and search “Kittanning Paper” We hope to see your entry.

I’ve already said I’m picking Kansas, I think they’re the best overall team, but that doesn’t mean much in this type of tournament structure. I think the Big East is going to make a lot of noise. West Virginia should have been a top seed, but either way they’re strong enough to reach the Final Four. Pitt looks to have an easy road to Sweet 16, and Kansas St. is certainly a team the Panthers can knock off. Don’t forget about Robert Morris, they go Villanova in the first round. No doubt in my mind that Kansas is the favorite, but if you don’t like going with popular choice Georgetown, Pitt could have a chance. Good luck with you selections.

USA Hockey Should Play for Gold

2010-02-23T15:31:00.001-05:00

Forget about the Men’s Hockey win over Canada, the real tournament starts today. If USA Men’s Hockey is to see Canada again, it won’t be until first or third place games this weekend. The US has a great chance to medal, all they have to do is win one, yes win their next game and they’ll play for a medal. Remember there are only 12 countries playing hockey in the Olympics. The US is on the right side of the bracket, Canada, Russia, and Sweden the three favorites are all on the lower half of the bracket meaning the US only has go though one of them for gold. The USA in all likelihood will need to beat either the Czech Republic or Finland to reach the gold medal game. Based on this bracket, at least a Silver Medal should be the goal.

Hannah Kearney Gold in Moguls

2010-02-13T23:32:00.005-05:00

Hannah Kearney, of Vermont won the first Gold Medal for the USA in the 2010 Winter Olympics. She was the first ever phone in guest on RSW, back in 2006.

2010 Winter Olympic Weekend Preview

2010-02-12T03:49:00.002-05:00

Tonight the Winter Olympics get under way in Vancouver; snow covered Kittanning would probably make a better venue. Of course all the cameras are focused on Lindsey Vonn and her bad leg. I’m not buying it, as it looks more like a convenient fall back excuse should she not win multiple gold medals. On Saturday one of the men’s marquee events, the Alpine Downhill takes place. Europeans are the favorites, but long forgotten Bodie Miller could be in the mix. Sidney Crosby and Canada will get hockey underway, albeit on NHL not Olympic size ice rinks. Also Saturday my first ever phone-in guest Hannah Kearney (pictured) will compete in Women’s Moguls. Don’t forget the ever entertaining USA vs. South Korea in short track skating. Finally Sunday will be all about Vonn in the Ladies' Slalom.

Is Lindsey Vonn Faking?

2010-02-11T07:50:00.005-05:00

Lindsey Vonn’s busied shin seems like the perfect injury to down play her now enormous expectations.

I don’t know Lindsey Vonn and certainly don’t have anything against her. I’m also not a professional sports writer. I will say sports writers are hardly known for their ahead of the curve investigative journalism, (see Steroids/HGH in Baseball/Football), however I do work in the PR / marketing world.

This Lindsey Vonn injury on paper looks like a classic example of down playing out of control hype. As I mentioned in this commentary no American is as appealing or has received half as much pre-Olympic hype as Vonn. She is the Michael Phelps of the Winter Games, and as the hype is only growing.

Someone in her team of “Handlers” will call them, surely recognized the hype has been growing out of control. Remember Vonn has never won an Olympic Medal, and despite being the best women skier in the world, nothing is for certain on the ski slopes. A lot of things can go wrong out there.

It looks to me – the Vonn Team yesterday laid the ground work for an excuse should Lindsey not bring home the medals.

Let’s look at the facts.

1. No Xrays – This is 2010, they have xray machines in stadiums, athletes are always getting these things checked.

2. By her own admission, she can walk fine, but it hurts with her a ski boots on, I’m not a doctor, but this seems like a little convent if you’re trying to fake an injury.

3. No Pictures

4. No Doctors – She has been the only one from her camp talking about the injury.

5. Can’t be proven wrong – How can you prove she doesn’t have a bused shin, even if someone calls her out, how can they prove it. 99% of skier have bruised shins

I’m not trying to smear Vonn here, but as I said being in the PR world everyday, this sure does look like a downplay on the hype. Her mom didn't even know about hte injury until yesterday, why the hush, hush? The facts still don’t prove one side or the other, but they certainly have yet to rule out she not faking.

What do you think???

The Lindsey Vonn-couver Olympics

2010-02-09T11:27:00.003-05:00

Is Lindsey Vonn, a bit over exposed in the build up to the Olympics?

Okay, Lindsey Vonn has a good chance to become the greatest female skier in US history. However one might think the US is only sending Lindsey Vonn to Vancouver. I wouldn’t be surprised if she also drove bobsled, curls, and is the first line center for the Hockey Team. No one is putting much faith behind the rest of team USA. There is no one man or women from the US getting half the amount press Vonn has received during the Olympic build up. I’m not necessarily blaming Vonn, because as an Olympian you only get one chance, and she is cashing in every penny she can. As much as the Summer Olympics were about Michael Phelps the Winter Olympics are about Vonn. We’ll see if she can live up to the hype, or if someone else cashes her party.

WVU Basketball Title Contenders?

2010-02-07T14:48:00.001-05:00

West Virginia is starting to look like a contender in NCAA Basketball. They’ve only lost two games all season, and both opponents were ranked in the top five when those games were played. They host Villanova in a big game tonight. Villanova is coming off a lost in a wild game Saturday at Georgetown and will be looking to bounce back. Pitt will get another chance at West Virginia as WVU travels to Pittsburgh on Friday Night. WVU might be missing a true center, but they start essentially one guard and 4 forwards. They pose more match-up problems for their opponents. If they win tonight then, you’ll have to start considering WVU as having a legitimate chance for a title. For those of you who are waiting to hear my Super Bowl thoughts, make sure you grab the paper on Wednesday.

Tim Tebow Super Bowl Ads to Steal the Show.

2010-01-26T19:45:00.000-05:00

The most discussed topic leading up to the Super Bowl might not have anything to do with the Saints or Colts. Former Florida Quarterback and potential NFL Draft Pick Tim Tebow is scheduled to appear in two pro-life commercials during the game. It’s not known what the contents of the commercials are, but they are paid for by Focus on the Family and said to celebrate life. Abortion groups are trying to pull the ad from CBS. The back story is Tebow was born in the Philippines, his mother a Christian missionary was urged to have an abortion. I wonder how Tebow will use his platform as a Pro and will he be outspoken. Also will he have an effect on how other athletes use their public presence?

Tim might remind people there are more important things in life than football games. I have a feeling we'll see a lot of anti Tebow stories over the next few weeks.

Victoria Azarenka: The New Queen of Tennis?

2010-01-25T17:59:00.026-05:00

This is the year for Victoria Azarenka. She has a chance to become the new star of women's tennis. The WTA certainly could use a fresh face capable of contending on a regular basis for the next half decade. The 20 year old Azarenka, who hails from Belarus has the opportunity to be that star.

First she'll have to beat the current queen of tennis Serena Williams today at the Australian Open. Serena is with out question one of the three top players in history of tennis, and when healthy and determined possibly the best.

Azarenka did make the Australian Open Final back in 2008, and the French Open final last year, so she isn't an unknown. The fact that she is somewhat familiar with the spotlight should have her prepared to reach the next level. However now she has finally grown into her 5'11 frame, and looks ready to emerge as a top player in the women's game. Women's Tennis needs some fresh faces, especially one that can be at the top for the next five years.

The WTA certainly needs a star, for that matter they could use a couple. Ivanovic and Jankovic have failed to live up to their billing. The William Sisters are probably in the last few years of their careers. Venus and Serena have always done things their own way, so they could dominate for another few years or just decide to move on to other things. Unfortunately for them, their only consistent rivals have been themselves. Maria Sharapova is always injured and never plays enough to attract fans to women's tennis. Her love of the camera and focuses off the court, still leaves the need for a player who is most known for accomplishments on the court.

The worry is Vika will spend too much time doing photo shoots like this one for FHM. She does like shopping as anyone follows her - @vika7 comes to find out. The fact that is great friends with follow young tennis players Caroline Wozniacki, Svetlana Kuznetsova, and others should help her focus on tennis. I just have the impression after interviewing her that she's grounded enough and has the desire to want to be a star tennis player

Of course if this is her year, she has to beat Serena today before this conversation can go any further.

New World Soccer / Footbal Club Rankings

2010-01-18T13:56:00.002-05:00

Our New World Soccer Club Rankings for 1-18-10 are out.

To Celebrate here is a little Samba courtesy of Ronaldinho from 4th ranked AC Milan

09-10 College Football Champions: Boise St. & Alabama

2010-01-08T05:40:00.001-05:00

As we know but sometimes forget, there is no NCAA College Football Champion. There is something called the BCS Championship, but what is that anyway. If the BCS can name a champion, so can RizzoSports.com, which we've been doing in recent years. Until College Football comes up with a better system, (the simple +1 game if needed would work) most years we're left with confusion. The BCS uses sports writers, can anyone think of a more biased group? Here at RizzoSports.com we're unbiased and fair, we'll at least more so the sports media. We're not picking based on who we think would win if team x played team y. Last year we named Utah as lone Champions of College Football, this we again have co-champions.

2009-2010 RizzoSports.com College Football Champions

Alabama - 14-0

Boise St. 14-0

BCS Title Game Pick: Texas to Win

2010-01-07T06:09:00.000-05:00

We’re going to pick Texas to win the BCS Title Game tonight. Just to be different, so many people are picking Alabama, we’re going to go with Texas. You have to remember it’s been so long since these teams last played, therefore anything can happen. There is a chance Alabama could come out a little rusty, same for Texas we’ll see. The longer layoff in theory favors the underdog. If Alabama can throw the ball well, then they’ll beat Texas. However we’re picking Texas in an upset.

2009-10 College Football Bowl Picks

2010-01-04T14:38:00.000-05:00

Brian goes 10-4 to take the lead. We'll Pick the two final games tonight on RSW!!!!

On Tuesday night December 22, myself and Brian Sakowski will pick the winners of the following major college football bowl games. We'll hold off until the January 5th show to pick the winners of the Orange and BCS Bowls. If you can't watch on local cable remember you can watch live online at 7:30pm on familylivetv.com. We invite you to either post your selections or email them to us at rizzosports at gmail. Thanks to everyone who followed our college football picks all season long.

Meineke Car Care Bowl - 12/26 (4pm ESPN)
North Carolina vs. Pittsburgh

Emerald Bowl - 12/26 (8pm ESPN)
USC vs. Boston College

Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl - 12/27 (8pm ESPN)
Clemson vs. Kentucky

AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl - 12/28 (4pm ESPN)
Georgia vs.Texas A&M

Champs Sports Bowl - 12/29 (8pm ESPN)
Wisconsin vs. Miami (FL)

Pacific Life Holiday Bowl - 12/30 (8pm ESPN)
Nebraska vs. Arizona

Brut Sun Bowl - 12/31 (2pm CBS)
Stanford vs. Oklahoma

Chick-fil-A Bowl - 12/31 (8pm ESPN)
Tennessee vs. Virginia Tech

Outback Bowl - 1/1 (11am ESPN)
Auburn vs. Northwestern

Konica Minolta Gator Bowl - 1/1 (1pm CBS)
Florida State vs. West Virginia

Capital One Bowl - 1/1 (1pm ABC)
LSU vs. Penn State

Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi - 1/1 (5pm ABC)
Oregon vs. Ohio State

Allstate Sugar Bowl - 1/1 (8pm Fox)
Cincinnati vs. Florida

AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic - 1/2 (2pm Fox)
Mississippi vs. Oklahoma State

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl - 1/4 (8pm Fox)
TCU vs. Boise State

----------------------------------------

FedEx Orange Bowl - 1/5 (8pm Fox)
Georgia Tech vs. Iowa

FedEx BCS National Championship Game 1/7 (8pm ABC)
Alabama vs. Texas

Mike - (40-25 / .615) Pitt, USC, Clemson, Georgia, Miami, Arizona, Oklahoma, VT, Auburn, WVU, Oregon, LSU, Oregon, Florida, Okla St. TCU
Brian - (35-20 / .636) Pitt, USC, Clemson, Georgia, Miami, Nebraska, Oklahoma, VT, Auburn, WVU, PSU, Oregon, Florida, Okla St., TCU
Sean - (40-25 / .615)

It's pretty much a dead heat, and anything can happen during bowl season.

2010 Sports Predictions

2009-12-31T08:03:00.001-05:00

It’s time again for my world famous sports predictions for coming year. Of my 2009 predictions some were on target, and some were close and some, well they just didn’t happen. For 2010 my visions are cloudy, but the Oracle of the Allegheny will be on the mark with these predictions.

England will win the World Cup.

I know England never does well at the World Cup, but this year the draw is set up perfectly for them. They have a fairly easy road to the Final.

Carolina Kostner will win Gold in Figure Skating

She’ll get good karma since she interviewed with us.

Sidney Crosby will be at the center of controversy in Vancouver.

I don’t know what yet, but something is will happen

No Undeafeated Teams from non-BCS Conferences.

2009 was the year of the little guy, next year their will be no surprise runs for the likes of TCU, Boise, etc.

Paula Creamer will win 2010 US Women’s Open at Oakmont

I might even go to see it live.

Tiger Woods will play in 2010

He’ll be back for better or worse.

Victoria Azarenka will become the top tennis star in the world.

Simple as that.

Bob Nutting will Sale the Pirates.

If only one of these predictions comes true, pray that it’s this one.

Lions make the NFL Playoffs

Correct, that’s the Detroit Lions, by the time the calendar flips to 2011, the Lions will have a playoff birth wrapped up.

Happy New Year from RizzoSports.com

Undefeated NFL Team?

2009-12-14T13:52:00.001-05:00

Will this be the year we finally see an undefeated NFL team? Right now Indianapolis and New Orleans are both 13-0. The fact that there are two undefeated teams should help each team by spreading out the pressure.

New Orleans only has one tough game until the playoffs and that is next week, at home against Dallas. Indianapolis has to play at Jacksonville this Thursday, which could be tough. Both are dome teams, but that actually might help them, since they would have home field in the playoffs. If they can get through the regular season, they won’t have to worry about bad weather causing problems for them.

We learned with New England a couple of years ago, unless both teams meet in the Super Bowl as undefeateds, nothing is for certain.

Carolina Kostner: Skating for Gold

2009-12-10T21:14:00.002-05:00

Carolina Kostner - Olympic Figure Skating Interview

Italy's Carolina Kostner is a favorite in Women's Figure Skating at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. A few minutes on the ice in Vancouver change her life forever. She is gearing up and getting ready to be one of this winter's Olympic Stars. When she spoke with us, Carolina was the top ranked female figure skater in the world.

1. Carolina, first off how did you get involved and when did start figure skating?

I started at age 3 although my parents took me skating before already.

2. Do you feel pressure to medal at the Olympics?

It’s my dream

3. Figure skating brings you to so many places across the world, do you have a favorite?

Home

4. In skating fans always throw flowers on the ice – do you have favorite flower? have anyone ever thrown anything other than flower? and what do you wish people would throw on the ice?

I love flowers. My favorite are gentians. People also throw stuffed animals. I love the ones with hats on!

5. How do you decide what music to pick and what outfit to wear at an event?

I need to love it! That’s all.

6. How many days a week do you train and for how long?

I train every day, differently. 2-5 h a day.

7. I hear you train some in the US? Is this true, and what to you like best about the States?

I train in Los Angeles at the moment. I like it very much. I like the many opportunities you have in such a big city.

8. Do you have a favorite Soccer/Football/Calcio Team?

Juventus, but I am not a big fan of Soccer

9. Outside of skating, is there something you enjoy doing, or do you have any hobbies?

I love to go to the movies and hang out with friends. I love fashion and design. I like to draw and read.

10. Ok, final question – If, hopefully when, you win a gold medal how will you celebrate?

One thing I want is to have my boyfriend with me. The rest doesn’t matter.

Thanks again, Best of Luck in Vancouver!!!
Best regards
Carolina

Follow Up: Ok, so we're disappointed with Carolina's answers or lack there of, but hey she is the top ranked figure skater in the world. Maybe she is a woman of few words. I'm thrilled she spok to us. Carolina is still unknown to most Americans but could emerge as the top female star of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Maybe if she has a good skate in Vancouver, everyone can throw stuffed animals with hats on them, onto the ice. Then she'll owe us. ;) Many of these winter sport athletes only get one chance at fame, it's amazing to watch how they're trying to give her as much exposure as possible leading up to and during the Olympics. However so much will depend on only a couple of minutes when she is on the ice in Vancouver. Hopefully she'll live up to the hype, and I encourage everyone to check her out.

Carolina's Official Website

If you would like to link to this story, please link to the achieved interview on RizzoSports.com

*all images were used permission from the Mancini Group

The Champions League - Teams Ranked | Knock Out Round Set.

2009-12-10T07:50:00.004-05:00

The knock out stage of the Champions' League is set. The round of 16 will get underway in February. Below are the group winners which we've ranked in order. All group winners play a #2 seed (group runner-up) in the second round. The group winners will host the second game. Barcelona just like at the start of the competition is our favored team. However there are probably a dozen teams capable of reaching the semifinals.

Group Winners

Barcelona - The defending champs, I think only want to avoid Milan.
Chelsea - Built to win this thing this year.
Real Madrid - When healthy they should have be attack.
Manchester United - Always favorite, extra tough at home.
Bordeaux - Flying under the radar, for now.
Arsenal - Easy initial group, now we'll see what they really have.
Fiorentina - Played great in the group phase, however inexpericence could show now.
Sevilla - They'll have a fight to advance.

#2 Seeds

Inter Milan - They should fear nobody, especially since they can't be drawn against Barc.
AC Milan - How will Beckham help them when he arrives.
Bayern München - If healthy they'll be a force
Olympique Lyonnais - Could this be their break through year or is time running out.
CSKA Moscow - Will be a tough out.
FC Porto - Unproven
VfB Stuttgart - Could be tough especially at home.
Olympiacos - On paper they have the least talent.

Of course the winter transfer period could change these rankings a lot. Right now this is how we feel they should be ranked. Remember UFEA doesn't rank the groups, and teams can not play another team from their country or original group.

The BCS Proves Nothing Again!!!

2009-12-08T06:08:00.000-05:00

The BCS hasn’t worked again. As we have seen since the establishment of the BCS, rarely do you have only two clear best teams by the end of the regular season. I would either have a playoff, or drop this fake champion BCS system altogether. The BCS should have initially been a plus one game in most seasons. Looking back at the history of the BCS, this would have proven the best team in college football. For example the year we had USC and Texas unbeaten, just put them in the BCS title game. Last year it would have worked better as a plus one game, Utah vs. Florida.

Anyway the real reason I’m writing is to showcase some of the flaws this year. However as most you know, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that this year nothing will be proven. A lot of people are missing the main points of the argument, which are as follows.

1. The preseason rankings which we have argued about before created a preconceived notion that Texas is somehow better than TCU or Cincinnati. If Cincinnati or TCU was ranked #2 to start the season, I see nothing that Texas did to clear justify them jumping to #2 in all the polls.

2. The Computers favor Cincinnati, 4 of the 6 BCS computer rankings favor Cincinnati. Computer rankings are a less biased then sports writers, trust me. Brian Cook at TSN gets this point too. If all of the voters clearly see Texas as the second best team, would an advance computer formula easily be able to prove the same?

Another related side story is Brian Kelly and the Big East are bird brains. For this reason I don’t want Brian Kelly at Notre Dame, as he has proven he doesn’t know how to handle PR. Brain Kelly should have been on an all out attack, saying his team is favored by the computers and had a tougher schedule in the final weeks of the season. Case in point if Brian Kelly knew what he was doing after the Pitt game instead of saying - Go Cornhuskers. He should have said. –

What a game we just beat one of the toughest teams in the country on their home field to go undefeated and win the Big East Title. There is non question that after today’s performance Mardy Gillard should win the Heisman. What a clutch performance. It would be a sin against the city of Cinncinnati and college football, not to allow this team to compete for a National Title.

But he didn’t, and Big East apparently can’t even get their own coaches to vote Cincinnati ahead of Texas. The real loser is the Big East as they look like whimps, because the coaches and sports writers voted TCU a team from non Big East conference ahead of their undefeated champions. Go back to PR school Big East!

For that matter TCU should have ran their mouths about Texas being so lucky not to be facing them. Anything to make people think you deserve to be there. TCU you did an equally horrible job making a case for yourself.

I do credit Texas, because they certainly made people feel they deserved to be there. There massive fan base also doesn’t hurt.

So thank you again BCS for proving….hmmm NOTHING! Texas, Cinncy, and TCU all should be competing for a national title. Cincinnati and TCU have ESPN, Brent Musburger and their inexperienced coaches and PR staffs to thank for their lack of second place votes.

At least the BCS system does give us a final match-up between the two most politically advantageous and popular schools, along with something for us to complain about. It just rarely proves anything.

College Football Picks - Week 14

2009-12-01T13:20:00.003-05:00

Well WVU knocked off the Panthers, I knew that was going to happen but for some reason still picked Pitt. This week the Panthers have a chance to redeem themselves and earn a BCS birth at the expense of Cincinnati. The rest of the Conference Championship games include the game of the decade, Alabama vs. Florida.

Oregon St. @ Oregon
Cincinnati @ Pitt
Flordia vs. Alabama
Texas. vs. Nebraska
Georgia Tech vs. Clemson

Mike - (2-3)(37-23) - Oregon, Pitt, Florida. Texas, Georgia Tech
Brian - (3-2)(31-19) -
Sean - (2-3)(39-21)

09-10 BCS Solution - College Football Playoff

2009-11-30T11:19:00.009-05:00

We could have finally have a true National Champion this year in College Football. Despite all the current chaos, there is an easy solution to sorting this all out. It basically evolves around using the BCS game as a plus one game this year. Don’t be fooled this is absolutely feasible, and a couple people have the power to make it happen.

I’m putting this out there now because hopefully momentum and pressure will build and this will be made a reality.

This idea or plan could easily be a reality, as a couple of key people with Fox and the individual bowls could make this happen. I’m talking about only 6 key people and if they sign off on it, we could finally have a real College Football National Champion.

That’s why I’m encouraging fans, bloggers, and media to take up this plan, and put pressure on those key people to make this happen.

Here is the plan, it’s very simple, and essentially controlled by Fox, which also puts this in their best interests. (think about the ratings and excitement) It’s also perfect that BCS game scheduled for Thursday.

1. First don’t put any team in the BCS title game yet.

2. The winner of the Alabama vs. Florida game goes Sugar Bowl – Friday 8:30 on Fox. If Cincinnati defeats Pitt they’re in the Sugar Bowl vs. Florida, if not it’s Boise State.

3. I’m assuming Texas will defeat Nebraska. (You could take the 4th undefeated team and place them here if Texas loses.) Put them in Cotton Bowl – Saturday 2pm on Fox. TCU plays Texas in one of biggest football game in history of the state of Texas.

4. Take the winner of the Sugar and Cotton Bowl and put them in Thursday’s Final in Pasadena.

These two playoff games our not scheduled opposite any other bowl games and both already scheduled for Fox, therefore no other bowls could really complain about them overshadowing their games

Why would Alabama / Florida / Texas, give up a guaranteed spot in the BCS game for a playoff? – First the extra money, and secondly would anyone turn down the chance for college football immortally, and that is what you would have with the first ever playoff and true National Champion.

Of course this plan only works if there are 4 or 5 undefeated teams. If there are five undefeated teams, Boise State, would be left out of the playoff, which can be easily justified when compared to the other four undefeateds.
So here is what this plan would look like.

Playoffs:

Sugar Bowl – Alabama / Florida winner vs. Cincinnati or Boise State should Cinncy lose to Pitt.

Cotton Bowl – Texas vs. TCU

BCS Game – TBD

Other BCS Bowls

Rose Bowl – Ohio State vs. Pac 10 Champions

Fiesta Bowl – Undefeated Boise St. or a one loss Cinncy vs. the loser of the SEC Title Game

Orange Bowl – ACC Champion vs. At Large.

Again this plan is simple and feasible, and if we can get a two key people behind, we could have a historic College Football Champion.

Thanks for your support!!!

Detorit Lions on the Rise?

2009-11-24T15:48:00.002-05:00

I’m not saying tomorrow's Thanksgiving Day game against Green Bay will be close, but after a decade of losing the Lions look headed in the right direction. A lot will depend on QB Matt Statfford, who is doubtful for tomorrow’s game. Quarterback is by the most important position and Detroit will not have a wining season until they have an above average QB. The reason to optimistic is they drafted much better this year without Matt Millen in charge. Rookie Brandon Pettigrew ultimately might turn into the NFL’s best TE. Their second and third round picks are actually 2nd and 3rd on the team in tackles. Second year player Calvin Johnson looks like a top WR. If the Lions can get two impact defensive players in next year’s draft, add another in free agency, then maybe you’ll see them on TV more than once a year.

College Football Picks Week 13

2009-11-24T09:17:00.006-05:00

Pitt vs. WVU is the marquee game locally. As Penn State is now just waiting for a bowl bid. There are a lot of rivalry games this weekend, so an upset is possible.

Pitt @ WVU
Alabama @ Auburn
Oklahoma St. @ Oklahoma
Florida St. @ Florida
Georgia @ Georgia Tech

Mike - (5-0)(35-20) - Pitt, Alabama, Okla. St. Florida, Ga. Tech
Brian - (4-1)(28-17) -
Sean - (2-3)(37-18)

College Football Picks - Week 12

2009-11-17T12:10:00.003-05:00

Pitt is off this week after a big win against ND. Could one of the undefeated teams go down in a major upset? We'll see.

Ohio St. @ Michigan
PSU @ Michigan St.
Air Force @ BYU
Cal @ Standord
Orgeon @ Arizona

Mike - (4-1)(30-20) - OSU, PSU, BYU, CAL, Oregon
Brian - (5-0)(24-16) -
Sean - (5-0)(35-15)

NAVY, ARMY or Air Force in a BCS Bowl?

2009-11-12T10:27:00.000-05:00

One day removed from Veteran’s Day, the question is: “Can a Service Academy reach a BCS Bowl?” Unfortunately, under the current system, the answer is no.

A lot of people still remember the days when Army dominated college football. Navy’s 7-3 record with a chance for 10 wins is probably the best you’ll see.

Two simple reasons: First, the size of players — now 6’6 325lb — isn’t quite what the Navy Academy is looking for. However, the top reason is the NFL! The lure of millions in pro football has talented players going elsewhere. I suggest if a player can get drafted after graduation from a service academy, they can play in the NFL, but must also work as a recruiter. I also suggest the mega-rich NFL match any service academy graduate’s salary with donations to helping injury veterans.

College Football Picks Week 11

2009-11-10T07:48:00.003-05:00

Pitt is in the top 10, but now their schedule finally gets tough. This is a great week of college football games, with many other games worth watching. Sean continues to leads the pack, as we come down to crunch time.

WVU vs. Cincinnati
Indiana vs. PSU
Iowa vs. Ohio St.
Notre Dame vs. Pitt
Utah vs. TCU

Mike - (3-2)(26-19) - Cincinnati, PSU, Ohio St. Notre Dame, TCU
Brian - (2-3)(19-16) -
Sean - (3-2)(30-15)

College Football Picks - Week 10

2009-11-02T13:42:00.002-05:00

The whole College Football World seems to waiting for that BCS Title Game showdown of Florida vs. Texas. However Alabama wants to crash the party, and could move a step closer to that with a win against LSU. Closer to home everyone will be talking about the big Ohio St. Vs. PSU game.

Syracuse vs. Pitt
Oklahoma vs. Nebraska
Ohio St. vs. PSU
LSU vs. Alabama
Navy vs. Notre Dame

Mike - (3-2)(23-17) - Pitt, Oklahoma, Ohio St. Alabama, Notre Dame
Brian - (3-2)(17-13) -
Sean - (3-2)(27-13)

College Football Picks Week 9

2009-10-27T13:27:00.002-04:00

Pitt is off this week, and Penn State has a easy game against Northwestern. There are only two games I think worth watching this weekend, and they're both at 8:00 on Saturday Night.

West Virgina vs. South Florida
PSU vs. Northwestern
Texas vs. Oklahoma St.
Georgia vs. Florida
USC vs. Oregon

Mike - (3-3)(20-15) - WVU, PSU, Texas, Florida, USC
Brian - (3-2)(14-11) -
Sean - (4-1)(24-11)

Remember you can post you picks too.

College Football Picks Week 8

2009-10-19T13:16:00.001-04:00

Notre Dame almost pulled off the upset, but in the end it wasn't enough. This week Pitt will have a real challenge as South Florida comes to town. While Penn State travels to Michigan.

PSU vs. Michigan
South Florida vs. Pitt
Tennessee vs. Alabama
TCU vs. BYU
Aubrun vs. LSU

Mike - (4-1)(17-13) - Michigan, Pitt, Alabama, BYU, LSU
Brian - (n/a)(11-9) - Michigan, So. Fla, Alabama, TCU, LSU
Sean - (4-1) (20-10)

Remember you can post you picks too.

College Football Picks Week 7

2009-10-14T09:45:00.000-04:00

After a week off we're back, and there are some great games this week. Including Notre Dame looking for an upset of USC. Locally Pitt and PSU will have solid opponents.

Minnesota vs. PSU
Rutgers vs. Pitt
USC vs. Notre Dame
South Carolina vs. Alabama
Oklahoma vs. Texas

Mike - (4-1)(13-12) - PSU, Pitt, ND, Alabama, Texas
Brian - (n/a)(11-9)
Sean - (3-2) (16-9)

Remember you can post you picks too.

World Soccer Rankings - 10/1/09

2009-09-30T21:06:00.003-04:00

We just posted the newest verison of the World Soccer Rankings. See if you're favorite club fooball team has made the cut.

College Football Picks - Week 5

2009-09-27T21:39:00.004-04:00

It was the worst picks in history of college football as I went 0-5. Pitt and PSU were both upset, and Oregon was really upset Cal. We'll see if week 5 will get any better. Both Pitt and PSU need wins to keep their seasons together.

PSU vs. Illinois
Pitt vs. Louisville
Oklahoma vs. Miami
LSU vs. Georgia.
USC vs. Cal

Mike - (0-5)(9-11) PSU, Pitt, Miami, Georgia, USC
Brian - (1-4)(11-9)
Sean - (3-2) (13-7)

Remember you can post you picks too.

College Football Picks - Week 4

2009-09-21T12:41:00.004-04:00

PSU will get their first quality team of the season when Iowa comes to town on Saturday Night Football. We're really interested in who wins the South Fla vs. Florida St. game.

Iowa vs. PSU
Pitt vs. NC State
Miami vs. Va. Tech
South Florida vs. Florida St.
Cal vs. Oregon

Mike - (4-1)(9-6) PSU, Pitt, Miami, Florida St., Cal
Brian - (4-1)(10-5)
Sean - (4-1) (10-5)

Sean - from Sean's Ramblings was again 4-1, remember you can post you picks too.

Week 3 College Football Picks

2009-09-15T09:03:00.002-04:00

Okay, we're being nice this week, and giving you one an easy pick with the PSU game, the rest of the games should be tough calls. Pitt will have their first test of the year against Navy, we'll see how it goes for the Panthers.

Temple vs. PSU
Navy vs. Pitt
Nebraska vs. Va. Tech
Cincinnati vs. Oregon St.
WVU vs. Auburn

Mike - (2-3)(5-5) PSU, Pitt, Va. Tech, Cincinnati, WVU
Brian - (3-2)(6-4)

Sean - (2-3) (6-4)

Sean - from Sean's Ramblings was 4-1, remember you can post you picks too.

College Football Picks - Week 2

2009-09-08T15:27:00.004-04:00

What a start to the college football season. Week one had a ton of great games, including an upset of Oklahoma. Why did I go against Boise St at home??? Anyway this week doesn't have that many marquee match-ups, but could Buffalo pull an upset on Pitt? We'll see....

Syracuse vs. PSU
Pitt vs. Buffalo
Notre Dame vs. Michigan
UCLA vs. Tennessee
USC vs. OSU

Mike - (3-2)(3-2) PSU, Pitt, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Ohio State
Brian - (3-2)(3-2)
Sean - (4-1)

Sean - from Sean's Ramblings was 4-1, remember you can post you picks too.

College Football Picks - Week 1

2009-08-31T20:39:00.005-04:00

The 2009 College Football Season is here. While PSU and Pitt hardly have difficult games to open, many of the marquee schools do. How about Georgia vs. Oklahoma St. to start off the season. Brian Sakowski of inthebleachers.net and I encourage you to make your selections each week. Remember you don't have to sign in to post your picks, just do it as anonymous, but note your name in the copy.

Georgia vs. Oklahoma St.
Oregon vs. Boise St.
Alabama vs. Va. Tech
Miami vs. Florida St.
Akron vs. PSU

Mike - Okla St., Oregon, Alabama, Florida St., PSU
Brian - Okla St., Oregon, Alabama, Florida St., PSU

2009-10 European Football Preview

2009-08-19T16:25:00.011-04:00

The European Football (Soccer) Leagues are just starting their 09-10 campaigns. The group stages of the Champions League are scheduled to begin September 15th. This summer saw three of biggest stars in the world change teams, with Cristiano Ronaldo Kaka, and Ibrahimovic all joining new teams in Spain. It looks to be a very interesting and entertaining year across the continent. Here are the 2009-10 RizzoSports.com Football predictions.

Spain (La-Liga)

1. Real Madrid – The amount of money Real spent this summer was mind-boggling. They’re built with one objective in mind, and that is to over take Barcelona. Well some people are worried about them getting all these superstars to gel, we think they’ll be motivated to defeat Barcelona, and that will be enough for the Title.

2. Barcelona – Everyone will be gunning for them this season, but it’s hard to repeat, of course there is only one way to go from here. They’ll finish close to the top, and far ahead of #3.

3. Villarreal - Spain is seriously Madrid, Barcelona and that’s it. 10 teams could fight for the third and fourth spots, we'll guess and go with Villarreal.

4. Atletico Madrid – Will Aguero take a step forward or backwards – we’ll see.

England (Premier League)

1. Chelsea – The biggest news from Chelsea this summer is the arrival of coach Carlo Ancelotti. This team has a ton of veterans and they look hungry for the League Title. We think they have it wrapped up with games to spare.

2. Manchester City – That’s right City, not United. It’s a risky pick trust us, but City have the advantage of only focusing on the league title. Adebayor will be prove to be the signing of the summer in England.

3. Manchester United – The departure of Ronaldo will be too much to make up in just one year.

4. Arsenal – It seems like all the experts are picking Arsenal to be out of the top four and Liverpool to win the title. Well don’t trust them, in a dramatic finish, the Gunners are too much for Reds and take the fourth spot, again.

Italy (Serie A)

1. Juventus – It will be a title chase for the ages in Italy, but Juventus will emerge on top. Deigo will be the star man, and with a midfield that has the likes of Melo, Sissoko, Marchisio, and Camoranesi, who needs to worry about the defense. Last time I checked Buffon was still in goal, and look out for a monster year from Iaquinta.

2. Inter - One of the greatest runs in Serie A history will come to an end this season, which is funny because this might be the best Inter team yet.

3. Roma – Roma is not deep, but their first eleven awfully strong when healthy. If they stay healthy the can do great things, and finish third.

4. AC Milan – Milan will reinforce their squad in January with a couple of big transfers. They’ll hold off Napoli and Palermo for fourth.

Germany – The German League has been stellar recent in years, but they take a step back this year, as Schalke wins the title over defending champs Wolfsburg. While Bayern struggles through the season.

France – It’s Gourcuff and Bordeaux on top followed by PSG. Lyon takes a step backwards and all the French teams struggle in the Champions League.

Champions League – It’s so difficult to pick a winner, since the Champions League comes down to the draw, especially the first round of match play. I think there are only five teams who can win it.

- Real Madrid – All they have to do is live up to their potential. We still think the circus atmosphere around the team will be to much, and they won’t make it to the final.

- Juventus – Certainly the surprise pick, but Diego will prove he’s (brace yourself) every bit as good as Messi, and lead Juventus to the final.

- Barcelona – The Champions League has to be the hardest trophy to win back to back, and for that matter alone it’s tough to pick them of the the Trophy. However wouldn’t Barcelona vs. Inter be the dream final this year.

- Inter – Last we picked them to win it, and they didn’t but if their defense can stay healthily, they might just finally win this thing.

- Chesela – They are probably the safest bet to win it. A veteran squad should finally hoist the trophy they've been aiming for for years.

No Need for Preseason Polls

2009-08-10T16:43:00.000-04:00

The thing I dislike about college football is the preseason polls. Since teams don’t play everyone on the field, it’s difficult to prove who the better team is over the course of the season. The preseason rankings create a preconceived notion of who is good, and who is not. Originally college football rankings did not come out until October. Last year every major preseason poll had Georgia as the top team, however by the end of the year finished outside the top 10. Penn State is ranked number eight, but could miss a chance at the BCS title game if two of the seven teams ahead of them finish with same record as PSU. With no Big East team in the preseason top 25, the league has poor reputation even before an official game played.

S.E. Cupp Interview

2009-07-28T15:16:00.010-04:00

S.E. Cupp

Frequent cable news show guest, columnist and author S.E. Cupp talks sports and politics. S.E. has even written for SI.com. Here is what she has to say about sports and politics.

1. Did you play any sports growing up, and do you have a favorite to watch?

I studied classical ballet for 10 years, and danced with the Boston Ballet, so sports were generally off-limits. But I liked playing soccer when I could. I also ran track a little, and was a cockswain for a couple crew teams.

My favorite sport to watch is undoubtedly baseball. I love it – it’s such an egalitarian sport. I also love watching NASCAR.

2. What sports figure would make the best politician?

Al Leiter is a friend, and a fantastic conservative with great ideas. I’ve been trying to convince him to run for office, but so far, no dice.

3. What is you favorite TV show to appear on?

I love “Hannity.” Sean’s such a patriot, you can't help but get riled up. I also like doing “Red Eye.” Greg, Bill and Andy are all such great writers – incredibly smart, hilarious, and irreverent. It’s nice to have a break once in a while from the heavy policy-talk and just relax and have a good time.

4. I've said that sports in a way have distracted a large portion of the population from paying attention to politics. What are your thoughts?

Sports are a great diversion, a useful escape. But there are also some lessons to be learned from sports that could easily be applied to politics. Lessons about equality, merit, individual responsibility, discipline, strategy, the pitfalls of celebrity and hero worship, etc. I love that sports plays a big role in a lot of peoples’ lives. I just wish we’d take more away from the games than we do.

5. Statistics are very important is sports, but in politics they’re not. Why shouldn't we know the numbers of unemployment, debt, etc. during a politician’s term or year by year. Your thoughts?

Well, I think we do. I think people are paying more and more attention to this stuff now that their wallets and bank accounts are being substantially affected. I think the problems we’re facing now are making us more informed consumers and voters.

6. As a woman, I wanted to get you're take on woman's sports, do you watch many, do you have a favorite?

I don’t really watch women’s sports. The draw of sports for me is that it’s a world I’m NOT a part of. Watching a Met game doesn’t make me want to play baseball…it makes me marvel at the men who can. The talent of a Mike Piazza or a Brett Favre or a Tony Stewart is mind-blowing to me…and that’s just how I want to keep it.

7. Is there one sporting event that you really want to attend?

I’ve really gotten to see a lot. I’ve been to NASCAR races, bull riding competitions, pro and college baseball, basketball, football, soccer, golf, tennis, etc. I’m dying to get to the Kentucky Derby one year…maybe 2010.

8. Rumor has it you're a Mets fan, what is going on with them this year, is it time to bring back Bobby V?

It’s always time to bring back Bobby V. What a guy. He’s been doing so well in Japan, though, I’m not sure he’s interested in coming back to MLB. But I’d love it if he did.

9. What are your future plans? Any new books coming up?

Yep, working on my second book as we speak. Will come out early next year. Also completing my masters at NYU.

Thanks again, and best of luck to you in your future.

Follow up: First off anyone who calls for the return of Bobby V has to be cool. So she certainly is a favorite talk show guest. SE is an excellent writer, I wish my columns were half as good as hers, and I wish I was on Hannity half as much as her too. Or just once. Her website is Red S.E. Cupp, and she normally posts at least one column a week. If you have a chance make sure you check her out, and be on the look out for her new book.

If you would like to link to this story, please link to the achieved interview 0n RizzoSports.com

**Images used with permission from: S.E. Cupp

Coaching is Everything

2009-07-23T18:23:00.001-04:00

I can’t think of a level in team sports where the coach isn’t the most important member of the team. Even more so now then ever, because not only do they have to manage during the game, they have to manage everything going on around the team. Who thinks Mike Tomlin just got a lot more added to his plate. Even the most talented team in the league the Penguins needed a new coach to change their season. Would the Pirates still be bad with the best manager in baseball, yes, but they would bad with Albert Pujols too. In a playoff game or series none one has as much influence on the outcome as the coach. If it wasn’t for Ozzie Guillen’s defensive substitution we wouldn’t have seen a perfect game yesterday. Strategy is what sports are all about.

World Football Challange Schedule

2009-07-20T07:32:00.001-04:00

This week the World Football Challenge will be in full swing through out the US. Here is the TV schedule for the remaining matches.

Tuesday, July 21
Chelsea FC vs. FC Internazionale Milano at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, Cal.
11 p.m. EST on ESPN2

Wednesday, July 22
AC Milan vs. Club America at the Georgia Dome Atlanta, Ga
7 p.m. EST on ESPN2

Friday, July 24
AC Milan vs. Chelsea FC at M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Md.
8 p.m. EST on ESPN

Sunday, July 26
AC Milan vs. FC Internazionale Milano at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Mass.
5 p.m. EST on ESPN2

Sunday, July 26
Chelsea FC vs. Club America at Dallas Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas
7 p.m. EST on ESPN2

I'm going to the game in Baltimore, I'm curious to see if there will be more Milan fans or Chelsea fans. Does anyone have an idea?

Put Bryce Harper in the Home Run Derby at the All Star Game.

2009-07-10T10:34:00.004-04:00

Apparently MLB is having a difficult time finding guys from the AL to be in the All Star Home Run Derby at Busch Stadium. I suggest they ask high school phenom Bryce Harper. It would probably be the highest rated show in ESPN history if they did.

Think about the buzz it would generate. It would be a great showcase for baseball. I'm not sure the pros would like it, but if they're afriad of a high school kid, well that's their problem. Actally just the rumor might make the AL fill their slots.

Williams and Federer win Wimbledon.

2009-07-06T10:11:00.000-04:00

It will probably go down as the sporting event of the year. Roger Federer defeated American Andy Roddrick in an epic five set Wimbledon Final.

The final fifth set was decided by a score of 16-14, and it alone took over an hour an a half. The win gave Federer a 15th major title, one more than Pete Sampras. Sampras said that Federer went from a legend to an icon with the win. It’s now hard to argue that he’s not the best ever.

This completed a great weekend of tennis as Serena Williams won her 11th major title on Saturday.

US Men's National Team seek Title Win against Brazil.

2009-06-25T20:13:00.000-04:00

The US Men’s National Soccer Team is in Saturday’s Confederations Cup Final against Brazil. While most people view the Confederations Cup as nothing more than an eight team exhibition tournament, a win would be the most marketable achievement in history of Men’s National Team. Win or lose against Brazil, the team will obviously be better prepared for next summer’s World Cup Finals. However success this summer doesn’t mean the US will be a contender next year. If the US does qualify for the World Cup Finals, they’ll be up against 32 teams not eight. While the US has finally developed a team capable of knocking off a top side, they have yet to prove they can do it consistently.

Victoria Azarenka: UK FHM Wimbledon Stir.

2009-06-24T21:16:00.006-04:00

Victoria Azarenka figures she'll cause quite a stir when the British FHM hits during Wimbledon. She actually did photos in the French FHM for Roland Garros, so who know what is planing for the US Open.

She even gave some good advice for the guys, in my recent interview with her.

Harper Leaves School for MLB

2009-06-18T18:49:00.000-04:00

Bryce Harper from Las Vegas is leaving high school after completing his sophomore year. He will get his GED and enroll in a junior college. Therefore he should be eligible for next year’s MLB draft. A lot of people are upset with him and his family. I have to ask why? If he wants to quit high school to play professional baseball, go ahead. The same with those silly NBA and NFL rules that you have to be so many years removed from high school to be in the league. Now I think the money being paid to professional athletes is beyond ridiculous, but I don’t fault the players. Bryce Harper is going to receive over $20 million from Washington next summer, and if they want to pay him, he should not be held back.

Top Potential Pro Sports Transfers

2009-06-08T22:00:00.011-04:00

With Ricky Kaka’s 65 million euro transfer from AC Milan to Real Madrid, we’re taking a look what could be paid for our brightest sports stars.

To get you up to speed, in the soccer world, they really don’t have free agency or trades; instead they pay huge sums of money for the rights to sign a player. We don’t know the logistics, and if there are any that block this for being common place in North America’s pro sports leagues, but we wouldn’t be surprised if it starts happening soon.

Here’s the top 8 largest potential transfers.

8. $80m Evan Longoria – to Boston. The Red Sox need a future third baseman, and at 24 Longoria would own the city for years to come.

7. $85m – Carmelo Anthony - To Philly. NBA players dominate the list, because one guy is capable of having such a major impact. Philly would love to shell out the cash to bring Carmelo back to the east coast.

6. $90m – David Price – to New York. The Yankees have lacked one thing in recent years, pitching and though they thought about Linecum, Tampa Bay could use the cash, and the Yankees have no problem shelling out the bucks for this young phenom.

5. $100m – Adrian Peterson – to Dallas. The best young player in the NFL at 24, Jerry Jones can’t resist building a team around Peterson. Transfer are difficult with the NFL's Salary Cap, and large rosters, but he could be the biggest impact player in football. With a huge new stadium, the Cowboys will need a player to bring back the glamour.

4. $102m - Chris Paul – to LA. Think about this, the Lakers will try to keep the glory days going, and they’ll use their extra playoff revenue to help finance a move for the best young point guard in the NBA.

3. $108.7m Sidney Crosby - to Montreal. Pittsburgh isn’t going to like this but, of all these possible transfers, this one is most likely. First off, hockey has so many players coming in from foreign leagues, transfer fee start to make sense. Secondly the Canadians are Sidney boyhood favorites, and after accomplishing all that he has in Pittsburgh the opportunity to join Montreal would be too good to pass up.

2. $150m Dwight Howard – to Chicago. Howard’s value skyrocketed this post-season, and the Bulls look to return to the glory days with a capture of this 23 year old superman.

1. $200m Lebron James – to New York. In a move that is destine to happen, the Knicks set a world record to bring King James to the Big Apple. New York then signs him to a $300 million contract, essentially paying a half of billion for the NBA's biggest star.

Bryce Harper - Baseball Prodigy

2009-06-08T12:23:00.004-04:00

High School Sophomore Bryce Harper was recently on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and has the sports' world buzzing.

Here is Deadspins' story on the 570 foot home run he hit when he was 15.

Time will tell, if he lives up to the phenom status.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Sensational Goal

2009-06-01T20:31:00.003-04:00

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's amazing back heel goal to win the Capocannoniere (Serie A Scoring Title) on the final day of the season.

FC Barcelona Champions of Europe 2009

2009-05-28T06:31:00.000-04:00

Barcelona were crowned European Champions Yesterday, as they defeated Manchester United 2-0. Barcelona impressively won all three trophies they played for this season, the Champions League, and the Spainish Copa del Rey and La Liga title.

Carlo Ancelotti's Auto-Biography Advice

2009-05-26T14:26:00.003-04:00

Carlo Ancelotti's new Auto-biography had the following to say, when discusing why Zlatan Ibrahimovic choose to join Inter instead on AC Milan in 2006. I thought it was a good line.

"Haste does not pay dividends, but Massimo Moratti does"

Watching the NBA Playoffs?

2009-05-14T14:19:00.001-04:00

While the NBA Playoffs hardly ever make news around here, I have to guess a few people are taking notice. For the record, the NBA playoffs have been filled with great games thus far. LeBron James and Cleveland are waiting for the winner of the Orlando vs. Boston series. Cleveland has yet to lose a game after sweeping their first two play-off opponents. With all the local attention focused on the Pens, the NBA playoffs have hard received a glance. While I by no means consider myself a follower of NBA basketball, I have to admit what LeBron is doing is incredible. Sidney Crosby is the most dominate player in the NHL period, but LeBron is on another level in the NBA. He is without a doubt the most dominate team athlete in this country. Remaining NBA play-offs might be worth a look.

Philadelphia Union: Philadelphia MLS Team

2009-05-12T11:00:00.004-04:00

The new 2010 Philadelphia MLS team will be called the Union.

I'm not sure what deal is with a snake, but anyway. They're currently building a $100+ million dollar stadium in Chester Pa. A large portion of the money is coming from the state and local governments. There are currently 14 teams in the MLS, with three on the way, as Portland and Vancouver will join after Philly. After these three teams join there will 10 teams in the west and 8 in the east. The big question is who will be next, presumably two cities from the east. Miami and Monteral look like the current favorties, but another city could emerge. The other interesing thing is that FIFA mandates relegation once a league reaches 20 teams, so I'm not sure how this will be handled by then.

The Day Tommy Lasorda Said Mass

2009-04-29T07:25:00.001-04:00

Once in his baseball career, a Tommy Lasorda argument with an umpire landed him in jail. More than 35 years ago, Lasorda was managing in the Dominican Republic’s Winter League, showcasing his managerial skills for any MLB team that might be interested.
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In one particular game, an umpire ruled that Lasorda’s centerfielder pulled a ball out of his pants pocket as a ruse on a deep fly ball that had gone over his head. The outfielder’s quick-throw prevented a loss in the last half of the 9th inning.
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Lasorda lost his cool and was later incarcerated with a few local weirdos, spending the entire night with a death-grip on the cell's bars away from the crazies, saying the Roman Catholic Mass, over and over and over again.
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Lasorda found out later that a politician had a wager on the game and, the umpire who had made the ridiculous call, had been threatened with jail time him

This story was taken from http://www.doubledribblebob.com/ - Here you can find hundreds of short sports related stories. I encourage my readers to check it out.

Victoria Azarenka - WTA Tennis Interview

2009-04-22T21:20:00.002-04:00

Tennis' Fabulous Phenom - Victoria Azarenka

You might not know who Victoria Azarenka is yet, but if she has anything to say about it, you soon will. The 19 year old "Vika" from Belarus is looking to emerge in 2009. Victoria has already taken her place in the world’s top 10, and with tennis looking for a new star, this summer could be her time to shine.

1. You’ve started out 2009 very strong, how would your rate your performances this year?
Yeah my performances this year been really good I think. Winning Brisbane was a really big step for me and I just started believing in myself that I could win the tournaments and the big matches. Beating Serena at the Sony Ericsson was the biggest win on my career, and I am just so happy that I finished that match.

2. What improvements to your game would you like to make in 2009?

Well there are always things to work on and improve in your game, and I want to keep working hard and improve my serve and just my game overall.

3. Tennis brings you to so many places across the world, do you have a favorite?

Yeah I love going to Australia, it is one of my favorite places to travel to.

4. What is the one tournament you would like to win the most?

Of course my goal is to win a Grand Slam, and my favorite ones are the US Open and Australian Open so I would really like to win one of these.

5. There are a lot of people who think you could become the next great tennis champion how are you handling you’re rise to fame and pressure.

You know, right now I'm just thinking about playing and the next match. If I'm going to get too excited, I won't be able to play.

6. How do you celebrate winning a tournament?

Well after winning in Miami the Tour made a reservation for me, my coach and trainer, mom and friends and we all went to Nobu and celebrated. I usually do something fun after winning a big tournament.

7. Since so many young men are becoming fans of yours. I feel obliged to ask; what would your ideal date consist of?

Haha, yeah I like to go out to nice restaurants and have dinner, and then afterwards go out somewhere in the city I am in and do something fun or go somewhere that plays good music.

8. Outside of tennis, is there something you enjoy doing, or do you have any hobbies?

Yeah I love shopping, I am just crazy about it. I love buying Gucci clothes and Diro shoes, and every city I go to I usually do some shopping there. Also, something most people don’t know about me is that I really like cars a lot and driving fast. I want to get a new Mercedes.

9. Looking ahead to what is your goal and expectations for the year?

Well I really want to win a Grand Slam. That’s the whole reason I'm playing, you know. I think everybody's goal is to try to be #1. I'm not going to say, yeah, I'm going to be there, but I'll try to do my best.

**Images used with permission from:via BEST Tennis - Top Image credit: (RON C. ANGLE) bottom image: (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Follow up: After this interview I can say two things for certain. Vika is determined to reach the top echelon of tennis players. The other is if your city, needs a jolt to its retail sector, host a tennis tournament, because Azarenka is a shopper! The WTA is having a hard time keeping its stars on the court. Sharapova seemly hasn’t been healthy for a year, and Jankovic and Ivanovic also have been struggling with injuries. The Williams sister are into their late twenties, and the WTA could really use a fresh young face. It’s going to be a very important summer for Victoria, we’ll see if she can capitalize.

If you would like to link to this story, please link to the achieved interview on RizzoSports.com

Major Changes at RizzoSports.com

2009-04-20T18:13:00.000-04:00

In an effort to clarify the website and blog, we’re making the following changes. We hope the changes will lead to an even better visitor experience and increase input from our readers.

RizzoSports.com – Will be for Pittsburgh / WPIAL sports related content. (Pirates, Pens, Steelers, Riverhounds, etc.) Including all of Mike’s columns for the Kittanning Paper. RizzoSports.com will now have a large news section which will be the center point for most new content.

RizzoSports Blog – Any thing non Western PA Sports related.

There will now be two RSS feeds one for the blog and one for the website news (Pgh Sports News)

If you’re currently linking to the site, you may want to revisit your links. No old content will be erased, so links to individual stories will remain. However moving forward the blog will only be non Pittsburgh sports. If you’re a Pittsburgh sports site you’ll probably want to link to RizzoSports.com or the RizzoSports.com News Section

All our links to Pittsburgh sports sites will originate from RizzoSports.com. If you want to write a commentary or story for RizzoSports.com or the RSW Blog, please feel free to send your writings to rizzosports [@] gmail.com. Also if you would like us to link to your site, please send your to us inquiries.

The RizzoSports YouTube will remain the same. The RizzoSports Twitter page will also remained the same, and general updates and annoucements for both sites will be on the Twitter page. If you’re not following us, we encourage you do so.

The RizzoSports.com News Section – The most recent articles will partially appear on the homepage of RizzoSports.com. This section will encompass all things Pittsburgh sports related, including a lot of Kittanning/Ford City coverage. However we're hoping to have a lot of input on all major wPA sports stories.

Once again,

RizzoSports.com – Pgh Sports News, Kittanning Paper Columns, WPIAL Rankings, Interviews, & the World Soccer Rankings.

RizzoSports Blog – Everything else.

Please understand there will be many minor changes over the next month. Once again thanks for your continued support, and we hope to welcome you back soon.

Incredible Run for Ford City Boys

2009-04-15T17:02:00.000-04:00

In the three major boys’ high school sports; Football, Basketball, Baseball, the Sabers have reached six straight WPIAL playoffs. The 06-07 basketball team missed the playoffs with a 10-14 record. If you look at the senior class, since their sophomore year, they’ve reached 7 of 8 playoffs, and own 3 section titles. The baseball team looks to make it 8 of 9 playoffs, and 4 section titles. Okay Ford City historians; has there been a better period for boys’ athletics? Certainly the increases in classifications have helped, and this senior class is still looking to make it to a WPIAL title game in boys’ sports. However it’s very impressive run which could continue for a few more seasons.

Pirates to call Neil Walker?

2009-04-14T14:29:00.003-04:00

Neil Walker could be only days away from his MLB debut. Easily the most heralded Pirate in more than a decade Walker has started the season strong in “AAA” Indianapolis. He also creates an added interest and marketability since he grew up in close by in Pine-Richland. Since the Pirates moved him from catcher to third base, he has improved his defense dramatically. The current third base situation is less then ideal. Andy LaRoche has yet to get a hit in 14 at bats, and Ramon Vazquez is a career .257 hitter as a utility player. Walker currently leads his triple-A team in hitting. Walker has been in the minor leagues since 2004, including over a full year in at the triple-A level. His defense is solid enough that the Pirates should bring him to Pittsburgh now, they have nothing to lose.

Searching For the Next Great American Golfer

2009-04-08T11:03:00.014-04:00

The first major of golf year starts today with the Masters. The media seems solely focused on three players, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Padraig Harrington. Harrington of course is going for his third straight major title. If you watched the tournament build up on the Golf Channel you might be surprised to learn there another 90 plus guys in the field. An interesting question over the first two days is will a young American be able to make a name for himself.

Here are three young Americans who could emerge:

Nick Watney (27) - 4 pro wins, best major result 11 in 08' Masters.

Sean O'Hair (26) - 2 pro wins, best major result: 12th 06' PGA

Dustin Johnson (24) - 2 pro wins, best major result: 48th 08' US Open

All three are under the age of thirty and are currently in the top 10 of 2009 FedEx Cup. Since 2000 only Phil and Tiger have won two or more majors. Will this be the year the wave of young American talent finally arrive and stays on the scene?

2009 Pittsburgh Pirates Season Preview.

2009-04-05T18:00:00.007-04:00

2008: W-L (67-95)
2008 Attendance: 1,609,076

Acquisitions:
Eric Hinske (TB) - IF/OF
Ramon Vasquez (Tex) - IF
Craig Monroe (Min) - OF

Gone from 2008
Jason Michaels - OF
Doug Mientkiewicz - 1B
Luis Rivas - IF
Chris Gomez - IF

The Pirates have finished 67-95 in three out of the the four seasons. With no free agent acquisitions of note, the 2009 Pirates are clearly looking to build with in. Here is what the Bucco Experts predict for the 2009 Season.

Matt - Pittsburgh Lumber Co. - 72-90
Jim - Sportocacy - 70-92, not a game better
Brian - Raise the Jolly Roger - 71-91
Nick - Pgh Sports & Mini Ponies - 82-80
Pat - WHYGAS - 65-97
Sean - Sean's Ramblings - 76-86
Jesse Behr - TheBurghBlues - 81-81

RizzoSports.com - 70-92 - I just don't think they have right people in place to do anything better.

Here are 5 questions for the season:

1. The Losing Record - The Pirates have a chance to set professional sports history with a 17 consecutive losing season.

2. Encore - Will Ryan Doumit, Nate McLouth, and Paul Maholm improve on last year's season? Recent Bucco History says no. Don't forget the Pirates reinvested their Bay/Nady/Marte money in contract extensions for this group.

3. Where are the Young Guys? - How long until we see Neil Walker, and Andrew McCutchen.

4. Coaching / Front Office - Joe Kerrigan is the new pitching coach, but John Russell and Neal Huntington have been here long enough that they can't blame anyone but themselves. I like to point out that Huntington was demoted in Cleveland and John Russell was fired by the Pirates as Third Base Coach. The simple point is if Pittsburgh is going to be a wining team, they'll need an above average front office and manager.

5. We'll they come - The biggest star the Pirates have is the stadium tax payers in Western PA built for them. However given the down economy and team that could lose 100 games, attendance could be a lot lower than last year's 1,609,076.

Interesting April for Local Sports Fans.

2009-04-02T06:14:00.000-04:00

It figures to be an interesting April for sports fans through out Western Pa. The Pens will wrap up their season on the 10th, but so much is left to be decided between now and then. Before the end of the month we could see them in the second round of the NHL playoffs. The Pirates, open the season on April 6th against St. Louis. It has been 7 years since the Bucs finished an April above .500. The NFL Draft takes places on final weekend of the month, and the Super Bowl Champion Steelers have nine selections. Two in the fifth and seventh rounds if you’re wondering. Trout fishers have April 18th circled as the first day of trout. Also most local softball and baseball teams are scheduled to around dozen games this month.

No Final Four for Pitt

2009-03-29T19:54:00.003-04:00

Pitt’s Men’s Basketball team came as close as you can to the school’s first Final Four. Their 78-76 lost to Villanova, left them just shy and it left Pitt fans heartbroken. Pitt definitely could have won the game. The Final Four is set, with no real surprises and two Big East teams. Will the Panthers make it to a Final Four in near future? The first question for Pitt fans is does Blair return. I think he leaves and if he does, it will take them a couple years to get back to this level. With the urban campus and the Pete, they should always get top level recruits. I think everyone thought this was their year to the make the Final Four, now there is a lot of uncertainty.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds Head Coach Gene Klien to be on RSW.

2009-03-26T16:30:00.002-04:00

I wanted to get the news out early that Pittsburgh Riverhounds’ head coach Gene Klein will be my guest Tuesday night. Anyone who plays or is involved with soccer should be interested. Besides being the coach Gene is also the General Manager and I believe a partial owner of the team. There are a lot of angles to discuss, and it will be very intriguing to everyone. So not only will we be talking about on the field stuff, we’ll look at aspects of running a team, and player acquisition.

2009 Pittsburgh Riverhounds Home Schedule.

Saturday May 2nd REAL MARYLAND 7:05pm
Saturday May 16th HARRISBURG 7:05pm
Thursday June 11th BERMUDA 7:05pm
Sunday June 14th RICHMOND 7:05pm
Friday June 26th RICHMOND 7:05pm
Friday July 24th WESTERN MASS 7:05pm
Sunday July 26th WESTERN MASS 7:05pm
Saturday August 1st WILMINGTON 7:05pm
Saturday August 8th CHARLOTTE 7:05pm
Saturday August 15th CRYSTAL PALACE 7:05pm

If you live outside of Armstrong County you watch the show live online at 7:30 at www.familylifetv.com.

WPIAL Baseball / Softball Season Begins for Local Teams

2009-03-25T16:19:00.000-04:00

Last year Ford City was the only Armstrong County baseball team finish the season over .500. In 2009 Ford City will look to make the playoffs for their fifth straight year. Kittanning has improved each of the last two seasons, and it’s fair to call them a playoff contender this year. I’m curious if the once proud Freeport and Leechburg Baseball programs will get back to the WPIAL playoffs. In softball, Leechburg has been Armstrong County’s premier program in any sport. They lost the WPIAL “A” Championship 1-0 last year, and a return trip will be their goal. The Ford City and Kittanning girls will look to make the playoffs again this season. The softball and baseball season is officially underway and next week section play begins.

2009 Cager Classic & NCAAs

2009-03-22T20:17:00.001-04:00

This weekend it was all about teams from the East. Starting with the Cager Classic, The East Girls including Marisa Wolfe, Lynzee Panchik and Keri Neal won the Girl’s Classic. Bill Henry’s East Boys, with the help of Ryan Young, Matt Shanty, and Ryan Risch won the Boy’s Classic. In the NCAA Tournament the possibility of an all Big East Final Four is alive and well, as Uconn, Pitt, Villanova, Syracuse and Louisville all advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. Pitt will face Xavier next in what should be a good game, as Xavier always plays well in the Tournament. Pitt will play in Boston starting on Thursday night.

PIAA Basketball Champions 2009

2009-03-22T09:42:00.002-04:00

Here are the 2008-2009 PIAA High School Basketball Champions.

Girls
A - Bishop Guilfoyle
AA - Villa Maria
AAA - Archbishop Carroll
AAAA - Mount Lebanon

Boys
A - Girard College
AA - Imhotep Charter
AAA - Archbishop Carroll
AAAA - Penn Wood

Due to dropping attendance there is talk the Championship games will be moved from Penn State back to Hershey next season.

Armstrong County Hosting a Marquee Sporting Event?

2009-03-19T06:51:00.000-04:00

A lot has been made about sell-out crowds at PIAA and WPIAL basketball playoff games. We’ll probably see another packed house at Saturday’s Cager Classic. Armstrong County rarely hosts neutral site playoff games for two reasons; first we’re not centrally located in the WPIAL, secondly we have no large venues. Other factors such as no field turf fields and lack of hotel space hurts. There are plenty of soccer tournaments, but we any such complex capable of hosting those. While I believe there is a market for a the right sporting event, but as of now the Freeport Baseball Invitational and the occasional Little League Section Tournament and fishing contest is the best I see us hosting for a long time.