Brian's World of Sports

AEW Results & Recap February 10th 2021

TNT Championship Match: Darby Allin vs. Joey Janela:

The two started off back-and-forth, both demonstrating their athleticism and high-flying abilities. Janela took advantage momentarily as he got cocky and took too long to climb the ropes allowing Allin to recuperate and go on the attack. Both superstars were not afraid to fight ringside. Janela has surprised me so far throughout this match as it is a better match than I thought. Allin has picked apart the elbow of Janela and picked up the win.

Results: Darby Allin defeats Joey Janella via pinfall to retain his championship

Grade: B+

Tag Team Match: Cody Rhodes & Lee Johnson w/ Arn Anderson vs. Pretty Peter Avalon & Cezar Bononi:

Johnson was just signed to AEW a few days prior and has joined the Nightmare Family. Arn Anderson’s son was in attendance as he is training to become an AEW superstar. Rhodes and Avalon started out the match for their respected teams. Rhodes had the advantage early but once he tagged in Johnson, things went south for the Nightmare Family. Johnson was able to fight the opposition with some athletic moves and tag Cody back in. Bononi has the clear weight advantage and has been a powerhouse in this match and has been tough to bring down. As they went to a split-screen with commercial, Avalon and Bononi have controlled the match. Cody got a nice reversal from the top rope and finally made the tag to Johnson. Johnson came in with a burst of energy and took them both out. Bonani broke up a two count and then threw Rhodes out of the ring. Rhodes and Bonani fought at ringside as Johnson rolled up Avalon for the win.

Results: Cody Rhodes & Lee Johnson defeat Pretty Peter Avalon & Cezar Bonani via pinfall

Grade: B-

Pac vs. Ryan Nemeth:

This match interests me as I just found our Ryan Nemeth’s brother is WWE superstar Dolph Ziggler. Pac went right after Nemeth and hit him with vicious kicks. Pac spent too much time outside the ring allowing Nemeth to string together some offense. Pac hit Nemeth with the Black Arrow and then forces Nemeth to tap instantly with the Brutalizer.

Results: Pac defeats Ryan Nemeth via submission

Grade: C

Tag Team Match: Chris Jericho & MJF w/ Wardlow vs. The Acclaimed:

MJF started off the match but was still hurting from the attack by Sammy Guevara earlier in the night. MJF tagged in Jericho but The Acclaimed still have control of the match. MJF takes advantage due to a distraction caused by Jericho. Jake Hager caused a distraction so Jericho can hit The Judas Effect for the win. After the match, Sammy Guevara came out to the ring and quit The Inner Circle. AEW has built this up for weeks and Guevara finally quit.

Results: Chris Jericho & MJF defeat The Acclaimed via pinfall

Grade: D+

Women’s World Title Eliminator Tournament First Round Match: Legit Leyla Hirsch vs. Thunder Rosa:

Thunder Rosa smartly used her size to her advantage early and often. Hirsch has hit Rosa with many suplexes and mauevers on the ground. This match has been very physical and back-and-forth. Hirsch went for the moonsault but Rosa got her legs up for the reversal.

Results: Thunder Rosa defeats Legit Leyla Hirsch via pinfall

Grade: C+

Falls Count Anywhere Anything Goes Tag Team Match: Kenny Omega w/ Don Callis & Kenta vs. Jon Moxley & Lance Archer w/ Jake Roberts:

The four went right after each other. Kenta uses his briefcase and goes right after Archer. Moxley and Kenta were working well as a team until they each got greedy and shoved each other. Archer hit Omega with an impressive shoulder tackle. Archer and Moxley are working well as a team. I am shocked because when Archer arrived in AEW he went right after Moxley. Kenta and Moxley alone in the ring are trading blows. Omega hit Moxley with a trash can. Omega and Kenta destroyed Moxley with the garbage can. Archer comes in with a ladder for reinforcement to take out Kenta and Omega. Everyone went to the seating and continued the fight. Kenta hit Pretty Peter Avalon with a Go To Sleep. Moxley and Kenta brought the fight to the kitchen and were shoved into appliances. Archer used a bag of potatoes to break up a submission and then Omega hit Archer with a trash can. The Good Brothers came out to save Omega and take out Archer. Moxley temporarily saves the day with a barbed wire metal baseball bat. The Good Brothers hit Archer with the Magic Killer and then Omega picked up the win.

Results: Kenny Omega & Kenta defeat Jon Moxley & Kenta via pinfall

Grade: A+

Recap: This weeks show was fairly good with a lot of good matches and great promos. My favorite match was the main event and my least favorite match was the Chris Jericho & MJF tag team match. I would give this show a B-.

My Thoughts on the Super Bowl

The Kansas City Chiefs had a lot going on before the game was even played.

For starters, the Chiefs were without some key starters such as linebacker Willie Gay, and offensive tackles Eric Fisher and Mitchell Schwartz due to injuries. This is a big blow for Patrick Mahomes as he is battling a toe issue and now has to go up against an elite Buccaneers front-7 without the Chiefs two best lineman.

Another issue was the Chiefs had a COVID scare, as the team’s barber tested positive for COVID. More than twenty players were in line waiting for a haircut. The team handled this well as they stopped the barber mid-haircut and left the building. Chiefs center Daniel Kilgore was left with half his hair cut, but that is better than having the haircut finished and potentially getting COVID as well. Luckily, nobody on the Chiefs tested positive besides the team barber.

Just when you thought it could not get any worse, Britt Reid the outside linebackers coach, and son of head coach Andy Reid was involved in a multi-vehicle crash on February 4th. This crash injured two children, leaving a five year-old girl in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. Reid had alcohol in his system as he was driving and police said they smelled alcohol when reporting to the scene. Reid had injuries as well but none were life-threatening. Obviously this a huge distraction for the team and for Andy as he worried about the girl and her family as well as his son just days before the Super Bowl. This is not Reid’s first time getting in trouble with the law as in 2007 he pleaded guilty to gun and drug charges.

Chiefs Pros: In my opinion, there were only maybe five players that played well for the Chiefs. Those are, Patrick Mahomes, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Travis Kelce, Frank Clark, and Harrison Butker. Patrick Mahomes kept the Chiefs in the game and at least gave them a fighting chance. He threw for 270 yards while dealing with what was later diagnosed as a torn plantar plate on is foot. Clyde Edwards-Helaire did not get many carries due to the score but when he did, he was effective. Travis Kelce had a good game as he had 133 receiving yards including some tough catches. On the defensive end, Frank Clark had four total tackles and a sack. Harrison Butker was 3/3 including an impressive 52-yard field goal.

Chiefs Cons: There were many cons for this Chiefs team. However, one of the most notable ones was Mahomes had no time in the pocket. He was pressured 29 times in that game and the Bucs only sent extra rushers on two of those plays. Mahomes also was sacked three times. However, for the Chiefs the most pathetic statistic is Mahomes ran for 497 yards just avoiding players. Tyreek Hill struggled as the Bucs neutralized him by stacking safeties deep not allowing any big plays. There were a lot of dropped passes including the picture below where Mahomes somehow makes this unbelievable thirty yard pass to Darrel Williams that was dropped and would have been a touchdown. The two interceptions Mahomes threw were both tipped. Although, Devin White made a great play on the second interception in garbage time. The Chiefs had a difficult time stopping Rob Gronkowski as he had two touchdowns. The Chiefs ultimately played against themselves as they got 11 penalties for 120 yards. It is nearly impossible to win a game when you accumulate 120 penalty yards, your quarterback is running for his life due to no protection, and the offense had a lot of drops.

Buccaneers Pros: There are so many pros for the Bucs in this game I don’t even know where to start. Tom Brady once again proves why he deserves to be here and why he is the greatest of all-time as he earned his seventh ring and threw for 201 yards with three touchdowns. Leonard Fournette had over 100 all-purpose yards and a rushing touchdown. Gronk had two touchdowns, as I mentioned earlier. Todd Bowles deserves a lot of credit for neutralizing the best quarterback in the league and one of the most explosive offenses in the league holding them to 9 points and no touchdowns. Antoine Winfield Jr., and everyone on the Buccaneers front-7 had a great game.

Buccaneers Cons: Honestly, there was not many cons or any flaws with the Buccaneers game. However, I am surprised Chris Godwin and Mike Evans were not involved in the offense more as Godwin had two receptions for nine yards and Mike Evans only had one reception. It will be interesting to see if Tampa Bay will bring back Chris Godwin even though he is a restricted free agent.

Refs: Now I’ve been seeing on social media a lot of people complaining about the referees and some of the calls they have been making. I know a lot of people were complaining because they are anti-Brady and felt the game was called one-sided. However, most of those calls were fair and the right call. Tyrann Mathieu committed a lot of penalties that game and was frustrated. The only two mistakes in my opinion was the Pass Interference call in the endzone as I felt the ball was not catchable. There should have been a penalty on the Buccaneers after taking off their helmets after the interception. Also, it is not like the penalties called costs the Chiefs the game. The Chiefs were simply outplayed.

Monday Night Raw 2/8/21 Recap and Results

The show started out with Shane McMahon returning which was a nice surprise announcing Drew McIntyre will defend his WWE Championship in an elimination chamber match. The following participants are AJ Styles, Sheamus, Jeff Hardy, The Miz, and Randy Orton. I expect that match to be very good.

AJ Styles w/Omos vs: Jeff Hardy:

Jeff Hardy had control for majority of the match until hurting his left knee avoiding a diving AJ Styles. Styles has since taken advantage and has gone after Hardy’s knee. Hardy was able to regain advantage although he is still hurting. Hardy hit Styles with the Twist of Fate but slowly tried to go to the top rope to hit the Swanton Bomb but Styles counters and then hits the Calf Crusher for the submission victory.

Results: AJ Styles defeats Jeff Hardy via submission

Grade: B

The New Day (Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods) vs. Retribution (T-Bar and Slapjack):

Slapjack and Xavier Woods started off the match for their respected teams. Leader of Retribution, Mustafa Ali joined on commentary. Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods pulled off a double-team move as Kofi came into the match. Shortly after, T-Bar got in the match and changed the momentum. Xavier Woods has been neutralized with Slapjack and T-Bar making frequent tags and staying on the attack. Kingston was finally able to get back in the match after a hot tag and takes out both members of Retribution. The New Day hits the Daybreak for the win.

Results: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods defeat Slapjack and T-Bar via pinfall

Grade: A-

Lacey Evans w/Ric Flair vs. Charlotte Flair:

Lacey Evans and Ric Flair came out for a promo. Lacey states Charlotte was ungrateful and never truly appreciated her father. Charlotte came out and interrupted Evans claiming she can do this on her own. Charlotte also told her dad “I don’t care who you manage, just don’t bring me down”. Evans then said if she were to beat Charlotte in a match Lacey would be the #1 Contender for Asuka’s Championship. Charlotte proposed to fight now and then Evans attacked Flair from behind before commercial break. As soon as the bell rung, it got physical and fast. Evans left the ring and Charlotte mocked her dad with the slow walk. On the attack before the match, Evans injured the shoulder of Flair and has been attacking it ever since. Charlotte finally comes back and hits a spear on Evans. She then unleashes on Evans in the corner ultimately costing her the match.

Results: Lacey Evans defeated Charlotte Flair via disqualification

Grade: A-

Edge comes out to announce his plans on who he is going to face at WrestleMania after winning the Royal Rumble. He said he will wait and see what happens after the Elimination Chamber PPV and then make his announcement. The Miz came out with John Morrison and Angel Garza to remind Edge that he has the Money in the Bank briefcase and can use that to cash in at any time.

Damian Priest w/ Bad Bunny vs. Angel Garza w/ The Miz and John Morrison:

Priest goes right after Garza hammering him with strikes. Miz and Morrison climb on the apron causing a distraction. Garza has taken advantage of the distractions with two cheap shots early in the match. Priest has simply dominated and outmuscled Garza. Garza distracted the ref as Miz and Morrison unload on Priest at ringside. Bad Bunny outsmarts Miz and Morrison and gets them disqualified from ringside. Priest takes advantage and hits The Reckoning for the win. The match was one sided and filled with too many distractions.

Grade: D+

Results: Damian Priest defeats Angel Garza via pinfall

Riddle vs. Keith Lee:

MVP joined commentary table for this match. Keith Lee curled Riddle with one arm impressively until Riddle slid out. Lee was simply dominating Riddle until Riddle locked in a sleeper hold. Riddle is finally starting to get in some offense but he has not been able to put him on the ground yet. Riddle finally took him off his feet with a knee to the face off the top rope. Riddle hits Lee with a series of Brotons. Lee hits Riddle with the Spirit Bomb. Bobby Lashley after the match, came out and viciously attacked both Riddle and Lee.

Results: Keith Lee defeats Riddle via pinfall

Grade: B

Lana w/Naomi vs. Nia Jax w/Shayna Baszler in a Tables Match:

Nia Jax has dominated that match and has obliterated Lana. Lana temporarily had momentum after putting her on the apron. However, Nia went for the leg drop and missed causing Nia to hurt her leg and backside. Lana countered the irish whip with one of her own putting Jax through a table for the win. Baszler went after Lana after the match before Naomi stepped in and through Baszler out of the ring. Lana’s matches has been boring lately as she gets destroyed by Nia but then pulls off one move for the win. WWE needs to book her better otherwise she will fade out.

Results: Lana defeats Nia via Nia Jax going through a table

Grade: F

Naomi vs. Shayna Baszler:

Naomi had the advantage early on until Baszler took advantage and went after Naomi’s arm. Baszler put Naomi in her finisher but Naomi got to the ropes forcing a break. She then went outside the ring to attack Lana. Naomi then rolled up Baszler for the victory.

Results: Naomi defeats Shayna Baszler via pinfall

Grade: D

Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton:

The two went back-and-forth until Sheamus’ music hit causing McIntyre to be distracted. Orton has taken advantage since then as they go into commercial break. The two both put on a performance with powerful strikes and moves. Sheamus eventually got involved and hit Orton with a Brogue Kick and shorty after received a Claymore Kick from McIntyre.

Results: Randy Orton defeated Drew McIntyre via Disqualification

Grade: B

Recap: This weeks episode of Raw was fairly average. The three matches before the Main Event were awful in my opinion. The best match of the night was the Lacey Evans vs. Charlotte Flair match. The best parts out of tonight’s episode was Shane McMahon returning and the Lacey Evans-Flair match. I would give this show a C+.

NHL Week 4 Hockey Recap

#1 Vegas Golden Knights vs. #8 Chicago Blackhawks

Vegas had an amazing series as they were able to eliminate the Chicago Blackhawks in 5 games. However, I give the Blackhawks credit as every game was close with the exception of Game 1. Vegas will now play the Vancouver Canucks.

#2 Colorado Avalanche vs. #7 Arizona Coyotes

The Colorado Avalanche were also able to win the series in 5 games. Every game the Avalanche won was a blowout with the exception of Game 2. The Colorado Avalanche will take on the Dallas Stars in the 2nd round with Game 1 taking place on Saturday August 22nd. That should be an interesting series but I feel like Colorado will win.

#3 Dallas Stars vs. #6 Calgary Flames

This was a very competitive series as the Stars won in 6 games. With the exception of Games 5 and 6 each team traded wins until the Stars were able to close it out. Every game was close with the exception of Game 6. The Stars will play Colorado as I mentioned earlier.

#4 St. Louis Blues vs. #5 Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks won the series in 6 games. This is considered an upset as the Blues are the defending champions and the higher seed. The Canucks will now play the Vegas Golden Knights as mentioned earlier. Every game was close except Games 1 and 6.

#1 Philadelphia Flyers vs. #8 Montreal Canadiens

The Flyers won this series in 6 games. It was a hard fought series featuring great goaltending. Every game was close except Game 2. The Flyers will be taking on the New York Islanders in the second round.

#2 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. #7 Columbus Blue Jackets

The Lightning and Blue Jackets played an incredible and historic Game 1. However, even though every game was close, the Lightning ended up winning in five games. The Lightning will be going up against the Boston Bruins.

#3 Washington Capitals vs. #6 New York Islanders

The New York Islanders shocked me as well as probably many other people and were able to upset the Washington Capitals in five games. For most of the series the Capitals looked lost and were outcoached by their former coach Barry Trotz. Also, Captain Alex Ovechkin did not play like his usual self with the exception of their Game 4 win. The Islanders will be taking on the Philadelphia Flyers as I mentioned earlier.

#4 Boston Bruins vs. #5 Carolina Hurricanes

Even though every game was close, the Bruins won the series in five games. The Bruins will be playing the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second round.

My Thoughts on Fernando Tatis Jr.

On August 17th, in a game between the San Diego Padres and the Texas Rangers got a little interesting and controversial. The Padres were up 10-3 and Fernando Tatis Jr. was up with bases loaded on a 3-0 count. Tatis Jr. was told not to swing and just take the walk. However, Tatis Jr. still swung and clobbered the ball for a grand slam.

Many MLB fans and analysts have called out Tatis and the Padres for being selfish and not showing good sportsmanship. The Texas Rangers said that it is an “unwritten rule” that you should not swing at a pitch 3-0 and that teams should not be running up the score especially in the later innings when the game is almost over.

In my opinion, I think Tatis handled the situation the same way I would have. Your job as an MLB hitter is to hit the ball the best to your ability and boost your stats. Tatis did what he is paid to do and hit a home run which boosts his batting average, RBI’s, and other statistics. I would always try to hit to the best of my ability no matter what the score is.

Should Fall Sports Be Cancelled?

COVID-19 has affected sports from all levels including professional, collegiate, high school, and recreational. Many conferences such as the PAC-12, MAAC, Big Ten and many other conferences have announced that all of the sports in the fall will be cancelled. High schools and elementary schools are following this same format as well.

In my opinion, I feel like this is a safe and smart decision. At the end of the day, athletes and staff safety is more important. However, I still feel bad for the athletes however as they lose their season. Also, it is only one season that fans and spectators will not have to watch.

Professionally, the NFL has made many new rules and laws to make sure the season can progress on time. Some of the biggest rules they have made is cancelling the preseason games, no fans in attendance for any events, and players and staff must be tested every time they enter the facility.

I do not think the NFL season should be cancelled due to the safety and protocol the league has implemented. I will not judge any player that opts out because families safety is the main priority. I respect Nate Soldier opting out due to his and his son’s medical history.

I wish Fall Sports were not cancelled, but at the end of the day everyone needs to do what is best for them and to stay safe.

Raw Results with Analysis 8/17/20

Apollo Crews vs. Shelton Benjamin

Shelton Benjamin took it to Crews early and cornered him for some strong strikes. The champ tried to come back, but Benjamin spiked him with a DDT out of nowhere for a near-fall. R-Truth ran through the middle of the ring as he tried to avoid Akira Tozawa and his ninjas. The distraction allowed Crews to take advantage and roll up Benjamin for the victory. MVP and Bobby Lashley pounced before Ricochet, Cedric Alexander and Mustafa Ali made the save. It took all three men to get Lashley to break his full nelson. Truth ran back down, and Benjamin was able to pin him to regain the 24/7 Championship.

Results: Apollo Crews defeats Shelton Benjamin via pinfall; Shelton Benjamin defeats R-Truth to win the 24/7 Championship

Grade: C-

Angel Garza vs. Ivar

Demi Burnett from Bachelor in Paradise and The Bachelor returned this week in a backstage segment with Angel Garza and Ivar that resulted in the two wrestlers having a match. Garza took control right away and kept the big man grounded for a little bit. What he didn’t know was Angelo Dawkins was backstage talking to Burnett. Ivar quickly made a comeback and ran Garza from corner to corner. Andrade provided a small distraction so his partner could hit a brutal dropkick for the pin. Dawkins and Burnett appeared on the big screen to taunt the challengers. After the break, we saw a shot of what looked like Zelina Vega poisoning Montez Ford’s drink.

Results: Angel Garza defeats Ivar via pinfall

Grade: B-

Mickie James vs. Natalya

This was Mickie James’ first match in months, and she started off strong by taking Natalya down with a Thesz press. The Queen of Harts had Lana in her corner, but it didn’t stop James from dominating the first couple of minutes. Rollins interrupted the match and demanded Joe reveal how he knew Mysterio would be there tonight. It took all of the attention off the action in the ring which made no sense and was poorly timed. Natalya ended up winning by count-out thanks to a distraction from Lana.

Results: Natalya defeats Mickie James via count-out

Grade: F

The Golden Role Models vs. Asuka and Shayna Baszler

Bayley and Sasha Banks gave a promo talking about how both women will beat Asuka at SummerSlam. Shayna Baszler came out and said no matter who wins Sunday, she gets the next shot asserting herself in the title picture. Asuka and The Boss started for their teams. Baszler saw Nia Jax in the crowd and went to confront her. Jax knocked down a piece of the plexiglass barrier on her before several officials came down. The Queen of Spades and Jax fought to the back while Asuka managed to keep Baylay and Banks at bay in the ring. We returned from a break to see The Empress of Tomorrow on defense. The Boss came close to winning with a meteora before bringing in The Role Model to keep up the onslaught of offense. Asuka was locked in the Bank Statement when Baszler ran down to make the save and keep the match going. Baszler ended up getting the win for her team by making Bayley tap out to the Kirifuda Clutch.

Results: Asuka and Shayna Baszler defeat Sasha Banks and Bayley via submission

Grade: B+

Ruby Riott vs. Peyton Royce

Billie Kay was originally scheduled to face Ruby Riott this week but she claimed her shoulder wasn’t feeling right and offered up Peyton Royce as her replacement. Peyton Royce was surprised but not upset with Kay offering Royce the match. Riott tackled Royce after the bell and took her down with a standing STO. She was clearly angry and took out her frustrations on Royce. Liv Morgan and Kay watched from ringside as their partners continued to battle. Royce hit a huge knee to the head to turn the match in her favor. She ended up shoving Riott into Morgan before hitting her finisher for the victory.

Results: Peyton Royce defeats Ruby Riott via pinfall

Grade: C

The Hurt Business vs. Ricochet, Mustafa Ali and Apollo Crews in a 6-man Elimination Tag Match

Before the match, MVP was shown talking to Cedric Alexander. He seemed to get inside of Alexander’s head a little when he questioned why Crews didn’t choose him as a partner tonight. Ali and Benjamin started with a basic exchange of holds and counters. The good guys controlled the pace early on with quick tags, but as soon as Lashley was brought in, he took out everyone on the opposing team. Ali was the first to be eliminated when The All Mighty hit a Dominator for the pin. Benjamin was able to score another elimination with Paydirt on Ricochet, leaving Crews all by himself against three opponents. The U.S. champion quickly eliminated Benjamin with a powerbomb. As he was leaving up the ramp, Alexander came out and rolled him up to win the 24/7 title. After a commercial break, MVP and Lashley were in firm control. They kept the champ reeling as they tagged in and out, but Crews was still able to hit MVP with his signature powerbomb to get a second elimination before Lashley put him away with a Spear.

Results: The Hurt Business defeats Ricochet, Mustafa Ali, and Apollo Crews via pinfall; Cedric Alexander defeats Shelton Benjamin to win the 24/7 Championship

Grade: B+

RAW Underground

Erik of The Viking Raiders demolished some guy in the first fight of this week’s Raw Underground segment. Dolph Ziggler rated his win a 4/10, and it led to Erik calling him out. This is the first time we have seen two established former champions fight in this new format. The Showoff tried to use his amateur wrestling skills to take the powerhouse down early, but Erik planted him with a slam. Ziggler was able to lock in a sleeper hold and used a thumb to the eye to secure the win. Ivar came out of nowhere and knocked Ziggler off the platform onto a group of onlookers. Later in the show, Arturo Ruas and Riddick Moss had a physical fight that ended with both men getting into fights with other people around the ring. There was no definitive winner. Marina Shafir defeated another woman in a quick fight before Jax appeared and took out her and Jessamyn Duke. Baszler confronted her, but Jax left before anything happened.

Results: Erik won; Ziggler defeated Erik; Arturo Ruas and Riddick Moss ends in a no-contest; Marina Shafir won

Grade: B+

Montez Ford vs. Andrade

Ford was out for blood as he went after Andrade as soon as the bell rang. He sent El Idolo out of the ring and hit a dive to take him out. Andrade was in control, but Bianca Belair taking out Vega at ringside distracted him long enough for Ford to roll him up for the pin.

Results: Montez Ford defeats Andrade via pinfall

Grade: C-

Analysis: This weeks episode of Monday Night Raw was average. There was not one match that caught my eye that I really enjoyed. I would give this weeks episode of Raw a C+.

Week 3 NHL Playoffs Recap

Through three weeks of playoff hockey, we have seen a lot of great games and action.

Eastern Conference:

#1 Philadelphia Flyers vs. #8 Montreal Canadiens: Flyers lead series 2-1

The Flyers and Canadiens have played three great games so far with Games 1 and 3 being very close. This is a battle between two great goalies in young star Carter Hart for the Flyers and arguably the best goalie in the league Carey Price for the Canadiens. The Flyers won Game 1 by a score of 2-1. The Canadiens won Game 2 by a whopping score of 5-0 behind a shutout win from Carey Price. The Flyers won Game 3 in a defensive battle by a score of 1-0. These two teams will meet again for Game 4 August 18th at 3 PM.

#2 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. #7 Columbus Blue Jackets: Lightning lead series 2-1

The Lighting and Blue Jackets have also played three great games of hockey so far. Game 1 was arguably one of the best hockey games I’ve watched in my life. The Lighting won 3-2 after 5 overtimes. Yes, the game went into 5 overtimes and was the 4th longest game played of all-time. However, Blue Jackets goalie Joonas Korpisalo broke a playoff save record with 85 saves in that tough loss. The Blue Jackets won Game 2 by a score of 3-1. The Lightning won Game 3 by a score of 3-2. These two teams will meet again for Game 4 Monday August 17th at 3 PM.

#3 Washington Capitals vs. #6 New York Islanders: Islanders lead series 3-0

In an interesting storyline we have Barry Trotz and the Islanders against the Washington Capitals. Trotz won the Capitals first Stanley Cup in franchise history before becoming the coach for the Islanders. Trotz is one of the best coaches in the league as he can neutralize stars on defense. His goal for this series is to beat his old team and stop superstar sniper Alex Ovechkin. The Islanders won Game 1 by a score of 4-2. The Islanders won Game 2 by a score of 5-2. The Islanders also won Game 3 by a score of 2-1. Alex Ovechkin was silent in the Game 3 loss. The Capitals look lost in this series and not like the same team they usually are. If the Capitals don’t wake up and get back to the hockey they usually play there season will end Tuesday August 18th.

#4 Boston Bruins vs. #5 Carolina Hurricanes: Bruins lead series 2-1

These two teams have made for an interesting and competitive series so far. The Bruins won Game 1 in double overtime by a score of 4-3. The Hurricanes won Game 2 by a score of 3-2. Unfortunately for the Hurricanes however, they lost forward and star player Andrei Svechnikov to a serious injury that will most likely keep him out for the rest of this series. However, Bruins goalie Tuuka Rask opted out of the playoffs to be with his family as he viewed family more important. The Bruins started goalie Jaroslav Halak as he picked up the win by a score of 3-1 in Game 3. Game 4 is Monday August 17th at 8 PM.

Western Conference:

#1 Vegas Golden Knights vs. #8 Chicago Blackhawks: Golden Knights lead series 3-1

For the most part, this series has been one sided. Vegas won Game 1 by a score of 4-1. Vegas also won Game 2 in overtime by a score of 4-3. Vegas in a lower scoring game won Game 3 by a score of 2-1. To avoid the sweep, the Blackhawks won Game 4 by a score of 3-1. Game 5 is Tuesday August 18th at 10:30 PM.

#2 Colorado Avalanche vs. #7 Arizona Coyotes: Avalanche lead series 2-1

This series features two great young teams. The Avalanche won Game 1 in convincing fashion by a score of 3-0. The Avalanche won Game 2 by a score of 3-2. The Coyotes were able to win a must-win Game 3 by a score of 4-2. Game 4 is scheduled for Monday August 17th at 5:30 PM.

#3 Dallas Stars vs. #6 Calgary Flames: Series is tied 2-2

This series has been close and back-and-forth. The Flames took Game 1 by a score of 3-2. The Stars took Game 2 by a score of 5-4. The Flames took Game 3 by a score of 2-0. The Stars took Game 4 by a score of 5-4 in overtime with an amazing comeback as Joe Pavelski scored the game tying goal with 11 seconds left in regulation. Game 5 is Tuesday August 18th at 5:30 PM.

#4 St. Louis Blues vs. #5 Vancouver Canucks: Canucks lead series 2-1

The Canucks took control and won Game 1 by a score of 5-2. The Canucks won Game 2 by a score of 4-3 in overtime. The Blues needed to win Game 3 or else they would be down 3-0. They decided to bench Jordan Binnington and start Jake Allen in net for the Blues since Binnington has allowed 9 goals in the last two games. The Blues were able to win Game 3 by a score of 3-2 in overtime. Game 4 is Monday August 17th at 10:30 PM.

This was a great week of hockey and I am looking forward to seeing what next week brings!

No NFL Preseason Will Affect Players

A few weeks ago the NFL and NFLPA announced there will be no Preseason games this year due to COVID-19. I am fine with this idea as preseason does not mean much for the starters and veterans. However, this will affect rookies and undrafted free agents negatively as well as people trying to make a roster or improve their spot on the depth chart.

Preseason in football is four games where players look to make the roster or improve their spot on the depth chart. It also is the first time rookies get to see on-field competition against an NFL roster. How rookies play in the preseason will affect their confidence and development during the regular season.

Some players are notorious for having four great games in preseason and either making their teams or another teams roster.

Starters will typically only play the first drive or first quarter until the last game when the starters will go the first half.

Some notable players this will affect the most are rookie QB’s Joe Burrow of the Bengals, Tua Tagovailoa of the Dolphins, and Justin Herbert of the Chargers. These rookie QB’s were all projected to get playing time in their rookie season especially Burrow who is their starter. These quarterbacks could have used preseason to grow and flourish their game as well as prove to the world they deserve to play and start.

Some later round picks and undrafted players could have used preseason to show they belong but now they might not make a roster. I feel bad for those players but those players rarely pan out into anything special. Also, the players health and safety is most important.

Smackdown Results with Analysis 8/14/20

Tri-Branded Battle Royal

The stakes are very high for this match. The winner will determine who is Bayley’s SummerSlam Opponent. Sasha Banks and Bayley served as special guest ring announcers for this match. Contestants included The IIconics’ Billie Kay and Peyton Royce, NXT’s Shotzi Blackheart and Tegan Nox, Lacey Evans, Naomi, Liv Morgan, Ruby Riott, Shayna Baszler, Bianca Belair, Nikki Cross, Dana Brooke and Tamina Snuka.The eliminations came fast and furious early, leading to a ringside brawl between Riott, Morgan and The IIconics. Moments later, Tamina eliminated Cross. Snuka came face-to-face with Belair in a showdown of powerhouses. The EST got the best of that exchange, delivering a spear and eliminating her. Naomi and Evans resumed their rivalry, with the latter getting the best of her foe with the Woman’s Right. Blackheart dumped her. Baszler applied the Karifuji Clutch to Shotzi, and Evans pulled her to the floor. Belair’s own momentum cost her, as Nox sent her to the floor. The NXT star fired off on both Asuka and Baszler, looking for the improbable win. Brooke, never eliminated earlier in the match, dragged Nox over the top and to the floor before joining Baszler and Asuka. Her run was short-lived, as The Empress of Tomorrow sent her packing. The Queen of Spades teed off on Asuka with a nasty kick, but the former Raw champ fended off elimination by standing on the fallen bodies of Bayley and Banks. Asuka eventually eliminated Baszler to win the match and title shot.

Results: Asuka eliminated Shayna Baszler to win the Battle Royal and earn the right to face Bayley at SummerSlam.

Grade: B-

Shorty G vs. Sheamus

A week after costing Sheamus a victory over Matt Riddle and paying dearly for it, Shorty G battled The Celtic Warrior in singles competition. The former Olympian frustrated his opponent early, attempting to ground him. A big ax handle to the face slowed his momentum, and the Irish Curse downed the artist formerly known as Chad Gable. Shorty G recovered and applied an ankle lock and then nearly scored the pinfall off a rollup. Sheamus delivered White Noise to stop his opponent’s roll and put him away with the Brogue Kick for the win.

Results: Sheamus defeats Shorty G via pinfall

Grade: C-

Gran Metalik vs. Shinsuke Nakamura

As Lucha House Party eyes the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, Gran Metalik battled Shinsuke Nakamura while Lince Dorado and Cesaro watched from ringside. Metalik used his high-flying offense to end Nakamura’s early success, keeping The Artist guessing as to where he might soar in from next. A momentary distraction by Cesaro allowed Nakamura to catch his opponent with a kick to the chest for a two-count. Midway through the bout, Kalisto made his return, dropping Cesaro with a tornado DDT on the ramp. Back inside, Metalik scored a top-rope elbow for the upset win.

Results: Gran Metalik defeats Shinsuke Nakamura via pinfall

Grade: C

Big E vs. John Morrison

This match was supposed to begin the evening until we saw another attack from Retribution. They stormed to the ring and attacked E and Morrison leaving the Smackdown roster in disarray. Morrison targeted his opponent’s knee, capitalizing on a distraction by The Miz. The lights flickered heading into the break, and when they returned, the roster had surrounded the ring. With the wrestlers in the arena, Retribution attacked referees and crew members backstage, assaulting and humiliating them. Retribution again interferes in this match and on Smackdown. Referee Jessika Carr alerted the Superstars while Morrison and Big E continued their match. Big E finally fought his way back into the match and applied the Stretch Muffler to force a submission. Sheamus then hit Big E with a brogue kick.

Results: Big E defeats John Morrison via submission

Grade: B+

Analysis: This weeks episode of Smackdown was average. The promos were very good however, I felt like the matches could have used better booking and had more action. I would give this weeks episode of Smackdown a C+.