Analysis of Baltimore Orioles for month of April

Record for Month of April: 14-9

Analysis for hitting: The offensively tenacious Orioles started off the season with an impressive walk rate. However, the O's only have 68 BB for the month of April, which ranks 22^nd in the MLB.  It was a nice surprise to see the O’s rank in the bottom half of the MLB in SO (17^th, 185).  Despite this, the O’s are ranked 8^th in OBP and 9^th in runs scored.  Unsurprisingly, they are ranked third in the MLB in HR and SLG.  Overall, not a bad start to the season. If O’s can rediscover their patience at the plate, they can develop into one of the most versatile offenses in the MLB.

Analysis for starting pitching: Between the eye test and overall metrics, the Orioles starting rotation is not pitching nearly enough innings as they rank 24^th in the MLB in innings pitched for starters. However they rank in the top 10 in WHIP.  Slightly above average strikeout rate as they are ranked 14^th in MLB.  Also nice to see limited number of walks allowed as they rank in the bottom half at 17^th in MLB.  While the pitching hasn’t been bad, the starters have to do a better job of extending themselves rather than relying on their lock down bullpen.  If they can be more aggressive at attacking the strike zone and garner more quality starts (as they have done in the last few games), they will effectively compliment an already dominant bullpen.

Analysis for relief pitching: Aside from the meltdown during the last game of April, the performance of the bullpen as been nothing short of impressive. Darren O’Day continues to be one of the most dominant relief pitchers in the majors and closer Zach Britton continues to baffle opportunistic hitters with his killer sinker.  Mychal Givens has gotten better and better as a converted infielder turned relief pitcher. His deception has been the catalyst for his intriguing development.  Dylan Bundy has had a solid month in relief and definitely has the look of a solid starter down the road. Although Brian Matusz has gotten off to a rough start since coming of the DL, he seemed to have noticeably better command of his pitches on the last day of the month, especially with his off speed offerings.  Overall, this bullpen has been as great as advertised despite incurring more IP than they should have to deal with. O's manager Buck Showalter made a wise decision to stack the bullpen with several capable long relievers along with his already proven single inning assassins. Finally, Brad Brach…simply awe-inspiring. He has faced the second most batters behind Givens and yet has an ERA of 1.28 and a BAA 0.170.  Brach has been and will hopefully continue to be the unsung hero of this Orioles bullpen. 

 

College Hoops Super Tuesday: West Virginia Mountaineers vs. Kansas Jayhawks

Arguably the best conference in college basketball, the Big 12 has displayed some of the most memorable and hard fought match ups this season. As a result, the proverbial cream has yet to rise to the top as the ongoing battle for a regular season title is still there for the taking.  However, two of the more notable teams at the top will look to get a significant albeit slight advantage in the Big 12 Standings.

Although the Mountaineers have had their fair share of inexplicable hiccups this year, this team has proven time and time again that when the competition gets tough that they can rise to the occasion. While the Mountaineers full court press defense has been a tremendous factor in their pursuit of success, it is the impressive and well balanced nature of this team that truly makes them a legitimate conference contender.

Offensively, the Mountaineers are decidedly dominant (81 PPG, 28th in NCAA), thanks to the impressive development of senior guard Jaysean Paige.  As 49.8% shooter from the field, Paige has utilized his newfound discipline to his benefit (14.2 PPG this season, 5.6 PPG last season). On top of being an cold blooded shooter, Paige also has some intriguing defensive talents that make him one of most underrated point men in the game.  With 1.4 steals per game, Paige is a well-rounded machine that is dangerous on both sides of the court.

Speaking of defense, the Mountaineers are privileged to have one of the most dynamic forwards in the game in junior Devin Williams. As a potent rebounder (8.8 RPG), Williams never shies away from attacking the defensive glass and has proven to be a capable offensive force once the ball is in his hands (48.3 FG%, 13.3 PPG).  Simply put, Williams has become one of the most exciting players to watch in college basketball as his versatile attributes continue to elevate this Mountaineers team to new heights.

However, the tenacious Mountaineers will have their work cut out for them when they go up against one of the best offensive teams in the country in Kansas (83.3 PPG, 14th in NCAA).  The Jayhawks relentless offense can be largely attributed to the consistent playmaking abilities of seasoned veteran Perry Ellis. An accurate shooter from nearly anywhere on the court (52.2 FG%, 47.4 3P%, 16.7 PPG), Ellis has undoubtedly been the driving force behind a Jayhawks squad that looks to get an advantage early on by taking high percentage shots.

Yet, even with Ellis' empathic contributions, there is another veteran playmaker that has assisted in the Jayhawks consistent success.  Junior guard Wayne Selden Jr. has become the Jayhawks dynamic shooting guard as both his shooting percentage from the field (49.8%) and his accuracy from beyond perimeter (44.6 3P%) are crucial to helping this Jayhawks offense fire on all cylinders.  Although his inconsistency from the charity strike is somewhat disconcerting (62.5 FT%), his numerous strengths more than make up for this noticeable discrepancy.

In the end, both of these teams will look to prove their legitimacy as being the best team in the Big 12. Although the Jayhawks offensive prowess has been essential in helping them win important games, their inconsistent defense has proven to be their Achilles heel in tight game situations.  While it won't be easy, the Mountaineers will rise to the occasion to prove that they can compete and win against one of the best teams in college basketball.

Final Score: Mountaineers 80 Jayhawks 77

 

Saturday Big 12/SEC Challenge: Iowa State Cyclones vs. Texas A&M Aggies

With the amount of parity that currently exists in college basketball, it's not a difficult task to seek out match ups that showcase two teams who believe they have what it takes to win a national championship.  Despite a devastating loss on the road to the pesky Arkansas Razorbacks, the Aggies still have one of the best defenses in the country (64.3 PAPG, 29th in NCAA) and will look to suppress the free flowing offense of the Cyclones (84.4 PPG, 12 in NCAA).

It's difficult to discuss the dynamic offensive abilities of the Cyclones without bringing up senior forward Georges Niang. Between his unwavering consistency at shooting from nearly anywhere on the court (52.5% FG%) and his relentless defensive presence (6.4 RPG, 0.9 SPG) Niang is one of the most well-rounded players in the country.  Better yet, Niang has proven that he has only gotten better and more disciplined since his freshman year as his free throw accuracy (70% from the line freshman year, 85.1% from the line this year) and offensive tenacity (12.1 PPG freshman year, 19.3 PPG this year) have allowed Niang to become an unstoppable force.

Although Niang's developed versatility is impressive, the maturation of junior guard Monte Morris has been equally intriguing.  As one of the most unselfish ball facilitators in college basketball (7.0 APG), Morris has become one of the unsung heroes for this Cyclones team that is reliant upon a tenacious offense who's success is predicated on hyper team vigilance and seamless ball movement.

While the Cyclones offensive capabilities are difficult to suppress, the Aggies have a defensive team that has made a living at shutting down happy go lucky offenses.  The crux of the Aggies defensive triumphs is the result of freshman center Tyler Davis being a domineering mountain that refuses to give up an easy shot (1.1 BPG). However, what's even more mesmerizing is the fact that Davis also has a well-developed offensive game and utilizes his size in the low post to take high-percentage shots (67.3 FG%).

Yet, even with Davis' worthy contributions, the Aggies have one of the best two guards in the game in senior Jalen Jones.  Although it's easy to look at Jones' statistical output and assume he's a pure scorer (46.7 FG%, 17.1 PPG), Jones also prides himself on being a sensational rebounder (7.0 RPG) as well as a aggressive ball snatcher (1.0 SPG). 

In the end, while both of these teams have their preferred styles of play, they are both capable at being efficient on both sides of the court. While the Aggies have a lot of underrated talent that has proven that they can take on anyone, the Cyclones have empathically shown that they can take on the best of best without being intimidated (three wins against top five opponents this season).  Although the Aggies will be playing with a chip on their shoulder after their most recent defeat, the Cyclones have proven that they play their best basketball when taking on dominant opponents.

Iowa State Cyclones 70 Texas A&M Aggies 68

  

Friday Night College Hoops: VCU vs. Davidson

Although Friday nights are noticeably meek when it comes to intriguing college basketball match ups, tonights A-10 duel between the Davidson Wildcats and the VCU Rams should prove to be a competitive affair.

Despite a rough start against non-conference opponents, the Rams have discovered some much needed continuity against conference opponents (7-0 in conference play).  Although VCU is known for their stingy defense (66.8 PAPG, 63rd in NCAA), they have several shooting threats that are capable of running up the score when the situation calls for it.  Arguably one of the most improved players of the season, senior guard Melvin Johnson has quietly become one of the most versatile shooters in college basketball (42.1 FG% and 42.8% from the perimeter).

While the Wildcats defense may not be as tenacious as the Rams (79.7 PAPG, 325th in NCAA), they more than make up for it with a relentless offense that is one of the best in college basketball (81.5 PPG, 28th in NCAA). This is due largely in part to the unwavering confidence of junior guard Jack Gibbs (24.8 PPG this year compared to 16.2 PPG last season).  Although Gibbs' three point shot has been noticeably less effective than is seasons past, he compensates for this discrepancy by taking more mid range jump shots.

In the end, the team that can take advantage of the opposing teams weak rebounding game will ultimately be the one that comes away with an important conference win. While the Rams defensive prowess is impressive, their average rebounding skills could prove to be the difference maker in this match up. Although the Wildcats are not great rebounders themselves, their ability to take high percentage shots at the right time gives them a slight edge in this potentially exciting A-10 showdown.

Final Score: VCU 72 Davidson 76

  

NFL Game Of The Week: Green Bay Packers (10-5) vs. Minnesota Vikings (10-5)

It all comes down to this. Two battle hardened franchises that are hungry for a division title will duel it out in a defensive grudge match that should be captivating from start to finish.

That's right, I said it. Despite Green Bay having one of the premiere passers in the game on their side, they'll have to rely on their physical running game (118.3 RYPG 10th in NFL) and stout defense (20.2 PAPG 10th in NFL) for a much needed victory. This is not to say that Aaron Rodgers isn't a crucial factor in how this game will play out.

In the Packers deflating 38-8 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, Rodgers looked completely lost as his demoralized offense couldn't penetrate a dominant Cardinals defense. Throwing for just 151 yards while completing only 53.6% his passes, the once pass happy quarterback appeared to regress beyond the point of just having a bad game.

Bearing that in mind, the Packers will have to lean on an inconsistent albeit physical running game to take some pressure off of their distraught quarterback. Although running back Eddie Lacy has been a shell of his former self this season, he still has the athleticism and strength to break out for some big yardage plays. Although back up runner James Starks has been a somewhat effective rusher in his own right, his presence as a dual threat receiver out of the backfield has given this offense some much needed versatility.

For the Vikings, their keys to claiming a division title will be predicated on their smash mouth defense (19.3 PAPG, 6th in NFL) and relentless running game (137.3 RYPG, 5th in NFL). Of course, the Vikings potent running game will only be effective if Adrian Peterson gets into a rhythm. Between his 10 TD's on the season and over 1,400 rushing yards, Peterson has appeared to have rediscovered his knack for running all over opposing defenses.

Beyond that, the Vikings will also need to rely on the impressive decision making skills of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to keep this offense clicking on all cylinders. While Bridgewater has only thrown for 14 TD's on the season, his poise as a legitimate pocket passer (65.9 CMP%) makes him a methodically gifted quarterback that can extend drives by utilizing his patience and keen vigilance to find an open receiver

In the end, the Vikings shot at redemption in a do or die division battle royale can't be denied as their versatility on both offense and defense has been a sight to behold. However, the Packers have arguably the one of the best passers in the game along with a fairly formidable defense of their own. Although it will be hard fought affair from beginning to end, the unwavering determination of Rodgers will be just enough for the Packers to clinch the NFC North.

Packers 24 Vikings 23

 

St. Petersburg Bowl: Saint Petersburg, Florida.
Connecticut Huskies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd

If there ever was a defensive grudge match for the ages, it begins and ends right here in Saint Petersburg, Florida.  Allowing only 19.8 PPG (17th in FBS), the Huskies live and died by how effective their defense can be as their offense (17.8 PPG, 122nd in FBS) lacks any real playmakers who can score consistently. Although the Thundering Herd are heavily reliant on their potent defense as well (18.4 PAPG, 14th in FBS), their offense is capable scoring in  hurry when they get into a rhythm (32.6 PPG, 46th in FBS). This due largely in part to the rapid maturation of freshman quarterback Chase Litton (22 TD's on season). At 6'6", Litton has the vision and arm strength to get the ball downfield and is especially dangerous when he gets into a groove. In the end, while the Huskies potent defense is inspiring, their stagnant offense has been their Achilles heel all season long. Despite having some offensive missteps themselves, the Thundering Herd at least have the talent to score when they need to.
Huskies 20 Thundering Herd 30

Sun Bowl: El Paso, Texas
Miami Hurricanes vs. Washington State Cougars

Sporting the best passing game in the league (397 PYPG, 1st in FBS), the Cougars are at their best when sophomore quarterback Luke Falk (70.7 CMP%, 36 TD's) leads the way. Under head coach Mike Leach, Falk has been able to reach his true potential as the Cougars starting quarterback and has made a name for himself as one of the best pocket passers in the game. Although the Hurricanes have a strong armed quarterback as well in Brad Kaaya (15 TD's, 8.43 YPA), their lack of a sufficient defense could prove to be a problem against this pass happy Cougar offense (28.8 PAPG, 83rd in FBS). Ironically, the Cougars defense is just as weak, which will result in an undoubtedly high scoring affair. When all is said and done, the Cougars have an unprecedented passing attack that has allowed them to stay competitive in a tough PAC-12 conference. While the Hurricanes will attempt to keep respectable, the Cougars offense will reign supreme when it matters most.
Hurricanes 40 Cougars 52

Heart of Dallas Bowl: Dallas, Texas.
Washington Huskies vs. Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles

Although most people would heed the warning of "never put all of your eggs in one basket," both of these teams have shamelessly done just that. For the Huskies, smash mouth defense is the name of the game (17.8 PAPG) while their offense can only be relied upon for the occasional scoring outburst. Conversely, the Golden Eagles are heavily reliant on their dynamic offense which consists of junior quarterback Nick Mullens (36 TD's, 63.4 CMP%) along with senior running back Jalen Richard (14 TD's, 1098 RY). While it may be hard to imagine the Huskies pulling out a victory in this game, they have proven that they can suppress even the toughest offensive opponents (see 45-10 victory over Washington State).  On top of that, the Huskies have a freshman passer in Jake Browning (16 TD's, 8 YPA), who has the capabilities to help this team score in a hurry. In the end, the Golden Eagles are the better team on paper, but Huskies have proven that they can be up to the challenge when facing a statistically superior opponent.
Huskies 27 Golden Eagles 21

Pinstripe Bowl: New York, New York.
Indiana Hoosiers vs. Duke Blue Devils

As far as competitive match ups go, this one touts two of the most evenly matched teams thus far this bowl season. For the pesky Hoosiers, it's all about utilizing the talents of their aggressive quarterback Nate Sudfield (24 TD's, 8.82 YPA), while including junior running back Jordan Howard (1213 RY, 9 TD's) in the mix. While the Blue Devils may not have the same caliber of offensive talent, junior quarterback Thomas Sirk (15 passing TD's, 6 rushing TD's) is dual threat as both a capable passer and even more effective runner. However, Duke's chances at victory won't necessarily be completely passed around their finicky albeit dynamic offense. Rather, Duke's chances of victory will be largely based on how well their defense plays (24.1 PAPG, 45th in FBS). While the Blue Devil's defense struggled mightily down the stretch, they certainly have the talent and coaching staff to rediscover a facet of their game that made them so dominant early on in the season. Although it may appear that the Blue Devils are simply limping their way into this one, the fact they have been on the verge of a post season victory for the last three seasons should be more than enough motivation for this pesky Blue Devils team to rise from the ashes of their past transgressions.
Hoosiers 27 Blue Devils 29

Independence Bowl: Shreveport, Louisiana.
Tulsa Golden Hurricanes vs. Virginia Tech Hokies

Normally, a bowl game between two 6-6 teams would hardly garner any recognition as a notable match up. However, the departure of long time Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer gives this game a tremendous amount of meaning and intrigue. Although the Golden Hurricanes have every reason to be confident in their passing game (329.8 PYPG, 11th in FBS), the defensive minded Hokies (24.2 PAPG, 47th in FBS) will look to secure a coveted bowl victory for their beloved coach. The key to victory for the Hokies is to keep the opposition from scoring 30 or more points, as all but one of their losses have resulted from this occurrence. While the Golden Hurricanes have been up to task when it comes to scoring (35.9 PPG, 27th in FBS), their paper thin defense (38.6 PAPG, 120th in FBS) has been the frustrating hinderance that has kept this team from being an exceptional playoff contender. When all is said and done, it's hard to bet against a team that's playing for more than just a trophy. More than likely, the swan song of Frank Beamer will result in tears of joy rather than tears of unfathomable sadness.
Golden Hurricanes 27 Hokies 31

Foster Farms Bowl: Santa Clara, California.
UCLA Bruins vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Despite a head scratching 5-7 record, the Cornhuskers have a lot more going for them than most people think. When the Cornhuskers have won, it's been almost always the result of Tommy Armstrong jr. (21 TD's), playing tenaciously and intelligently. For the Bruins, it's always been about being a complete team rather than a lopsided juggernaut. Freshman QB Josh Rosen has admittedly had his struggles, but when he's on his game it's nearly impossible to stop him from scoring consistently. Luckily, junior running back Paul Perkins (1275 rushing yards, 13 TD's) has been a huge crutch for this team as a capable runner as well as dynamic receiving threat coming out of the backfield. While the Bruins talent level may surpass that of the Cornhuskers, there is something to be said for this Nebraska team who's losses have all been by a touchdown are less. If Bruins hope to win, it wold behoove them to not underestimate this Cornhuskers team that can score quickly when they are firing on all cylinders. Although it would be nice to see the underdog come out on top, the Bruins simply have a better team that can score in a multitude of ways while utilizing a capable defense that suppress even the most tenacious of offenses.
Bruins 30 Cornhuskers 29