David Beckham On the Big Screen??

So, wifey and I were watching the new King Arthur movie and I saw a familiar face.

Yep, that's David Beckham as "Trigger." Love those celebrity cameos.

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/29

New additions in red.

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Nick Starkel (FR), Texas A&M - Belk Bowl vs Wake Forest - 499
2. Nic Shimonek (SR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 416
3. John Wolford (SR), Wake Forest - Belk Bowl vs Texas A&M - 400
4. Elijah Sindelar (JR), Purdue - Foster Farms Bowl vs Arizona - 396
5. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
6. Sam Darnold (SO), USC - Goodyear Cotton Bowl vs Ohio State - 356
7. Manny Wilkins (JR), Arizona State - Hyundai Sun Bowl vs NC State - 352
8. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
8. Mason Rudolph (SR), Oklahoma State - Camping World Bowl vs Virginia Tech - 351
10. Marcus McMaryion (JR), Fresno St. - Hawaii Bowl vs Houston - 342


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Rashaad Penny (SR), San Diego St. - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs Army - 221
2. Ahmad Bradshaw (SR), Army - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs San Diego St. - 180
3. Alex Delton (SO), Kansas State - Cactus Bowl vs UCLA - 158
4. AJ Dillon (FR), Boston College - New Era Pinstripe Bowl vs Iowa - 157
4. Justin Jackson (SR), Northwestern - Music City Bowl vs Kentucky - 157
6. Dorian Brown (SR), Ohio - Bahamas Bowl vs UAB - 152
7. Zack Moss (SO), Utah - Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl vs West Virginia - 150
7. Matt Colburn (JR), Wake Forest - Belk Bowl vs Texas A&M - 150
9. Bryce Love (JR), Stanford - Valero Alamo Bowl vs TCU - 145
10. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Steven Dunbar (SR), Houston - Hawaii Bowl vs Fresno St. - 197
3. Christian Kirk (JR), Texas A&M - Belk Bowl vs Wake Forest - 189
4. Keke Coutee (JR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 187
5. Jalen Reagor (FR), TCU - Valero Alamo Bowl vs Stanford -169
6. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
7. Gregory Phillips (SR), Purdue - Foster Farms Bowl vs Arizona - 149
8. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
9. N'Keal Harry (SO), Arizona State - Hyundai Sun Bowl vs NC State - 142
10. Deontay Burnett (JR), USC - Goodyear Cotton Bowl vs Ohio State - 139

Bowl Game Standings By Conference Through 12/29

Yesterday's results in red.

ACC (4-3)

Boston College - L vs Big Ten
Duke - W vs MAC
Florida State - W vs Conference USA
North Carolina State - W vs Pac 12
Virginia - L vs American
Virginia Tech - L vs Big 12
Wake Forest - W vs SEC

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (3-2)

Houston - L vs Mountain West
Navy - W vs ACC
SMU - L vs Conference USA
South Florida - W vs Big 12
Temple - W vs Conference USA

BIG TEN (5-0)

Iowa - W vs ACC
Michigan State - W vs Pac 12
Northwestern - W vs SEC
Ohio State - W vs Pac 12
Purdue - W vs Pac 12

BIG 12 (4-2)

Kansas State - W vs Pac 12
Oklahoma State - W vs ACC
Texas - W vs SEC
Texas Christian - W vs Pac 12
Texas Tech - L vs American
West Virginia - L vs Pac 12

CONFERENCE USA (4-5)

Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) - L vs MAC
Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Florida International - L vs American
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Southern Mississippi - L vs ACC
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

INDEPENDENTS (1-0)

Army - W vs Mountain West

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (1-4)

Akron - L vs Conference USA
Central Michigan - L vs Mountain West
Northern Illinois - L vs ACC
Ohio - W vs Conference USA
Toledo - L vs Sun Belt

MOUNTAIN WEST (3-3)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA
Fresno State - W vs American
San Diego State - L v Independent
Utah State - L vs Sun Belt
Wyoming - W vs MAC

PAC 12 (1-7)

Arizona - L vs Big Ten
Arizona State - L vs ACC
Oregon - L vs Mountain West
Stanford - L vs Big 12
UCLA - L vs Big 12
USC - L vs Big Ten
Utah - W vs Big 12
Washington State - L vs Big Ten

SEC (0-3)

Kentucky - L vs Big Ten
Missouri - L vs Big 12
Texas A&M - L vs ACC

SUN BELT (4-1)

Appalachian State - W vs MAC
Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
New Mexico State - W vs Mountain West
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Random Stat Lists, Episode 13, 12/29/17

English Premier League Leading Scorers (Goals)

1. Harry Kane (England), Tottenham Hotspur - 18
2. Mohamed Salah (Egypu), Liverpool - 15
3. Raheem Sterling (England), Manchester City - 13
4. Sergio Agüero (Argentina), Manchester City - 12
5. Álvaro Morata (Spain), Chelsea - 10
5. Romelu Lukaku (Belgium), Manchester United - 10
5. Wayne Rooney (England), Everton - 10
8. Roberto Firmino (Brazil), Liverpool - 9
9. Jamie Vardy (England), Leicester City - 8
9. Alexandre Lacazette (France), Arsenal - 8
9. Gabriel Jesus (Brazil), Manchester City - 8


German Bundesliga Leading Scorers (Goals)

1. Robert Lewandowski (Poland), Bayern Munich - 15
2. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon), Borussia Dortmund - 13
3. Alfreð Finnbogason (Iceland), FC Augsburg - 11
4. Kevin Volland (Germany), Bayer Leverkusen - 9
4. Mark Uth (Germany), 1899 Hoffenheim - 9
6. Timo Werner (Germany), RB Leipzig - 8
6. Michael Gregoritsch (Austria), FC Augsburg - 8
6. Nils Petersen (Germany), SC Freiburg - 8
9. Salomon Kalou (Ivory Coast), Hertha BSC - 7
9. Guido Burgstaller (Austria), Schalke 04 - 7


French Ligue 1 Leading Scorers (Goals)

1. Edinson Cavani (Uruguay), Paris Saint-Germain - 19
2. Radamel Falcao (Colombia), AS Monaco - 15
3. Nabil Fekir (France), Lyon - 13
3. Mariano (Dominican Republic), Lyon - 13
5. Neymar (Brazil), Paris Saint-Germain - 11
6. Mario Balotelli (Italy), Nice - 10
7. Karl Toko Ekambi (Cameroon), Angers - 9
8. Memphis Depay (Netherlands), Lyon - 8
8. Kylian Mbappé (France), Paris Saint-Germain - 8
8. Florian Thauvin (France), Marseille - 8

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/28

New additions in red.

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Nic Shimonek (SR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 416
2. Elijah Sindelar (JR), Purdue - Foster Farms Bowl vs Arizona - 396
3. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
4. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
4. Mason Rudolph (SR), Oklahoma State - Camping World Bowl vs Virginia Tech - 351
6. Marcus McMaryion (JR), Fresno St. - Hawaii Bowl vs Houston - 342
7. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
8. Shane Morris (SR), Central Michigan - Famous Idaho Potato Bowl vs Wyoming - 329
9. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
10. Kenny Hill (SR), TCU - Valero Alamo Bowl vs Stanford - 314


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Rashaad Penny (SR), San Diego St. - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs Army - 221
2. Ahmad Bradshaw (SR), Army - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs San Diego St. - 180
3. Alex Delton (SO), Kansas State - Cactus Bowl vs UCLA - 158
4. AJ Dillon (FR), Boston College - New Era Pinstripe Bowl vs Iowa - 157
5. Dorian Brown (SR), Ohio - Bahamas Bowl vs UAB - 152
6. Zack Moss (SO), Utah - Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl vs West Virginia - 150
7. Bryce Love (JR), Stanford - Valero Alamo Bowl vs TCU - 145
8. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
9. Jalin Moore (JR), Appalachian St. - Dollar General Bowl vs Toledo - 125
10. Devin Singletary (SO), FAU - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
10. Deshawn McClease (SO), Virginia Tech - Camping World Bowl vs Oklahoma St. - 124


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Steven Dunbar (SR), Houston - Hawaii Bowl vs Fresno St. - 197
3. Keke Coutee (JR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 187
4. Jalen Reagor (FR), TCU - Valero Alamo Bowl vs Stanford -169
5. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
6. Gregory Phillips (SR), Purdue - Foster Farms Bowl vs Arizona - 149
7. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
8. Tommy Sweeney (JR), Boston College - New Era Pinstripe Bowl vs Iowa - 137
9. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
10. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 133

Bowl Standings By Conference Through 12/28

Yesterday's results in red.

ACC (2-3)

Boston College - L vs Big Ten
Duke - W vs MAC
Florida State - W vs Conference USA
Virginia - L vs American
Virginia Tech - L vs Big 12

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (3-2)

Houston - L vs Mountain West
Navy - W vs ACC
SMU - L vs Conference USA
South Florida - W vs Big 12
Temple - W vs Conference USA

BIG TEN (3-0)

Iowa - W vs ACC
Michigan State - W vs Pac 12
Purdue - W vs Pac 12

BIG 12 (4-2)

Kansas State - W vs Pac 12
Oklahoma State - W vs ACC
Texas - W vs SEC
Texas Christian - W vs Pac 12
Texas Tech - L vs American
West Virginia - L vs Pac 12

CONFERENCE USA (4-5)

Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) - L vs MAC
Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Florida International - L vs American
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Southern Mississippi - L vs ACC
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

INDEPENDENTS (1-0)

Army - W vs Mountain West

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (1-4)

Akron - L vs Conference USA
Central Michigan - L vs Mountain West
Northern Illinois - L vs ACC
Ohio - W vs Conference USA
Toledo - L vs Sun Belt

MOUNTAIN WEST (3-2)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA
Fresno State - W vs American
San Diego State - L v Independent
Wyoming - W vs MAC

PAC 12 (1-5)

Arizona - L vs Big Ten
Oregon - L vs Mountain West
Stanford - L vs Big 12
UCLA - L vs Big 12
Utah - W vs Big 12
Washington State - L vs Big Ten

SEC (0-1)

Missouri - L vs Big 12

SUN BELT (3-1)

Appalachian State - W vs MAC
Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

How Good Has Jimmy Garoppolo Been?

Jimmy Garoppolo is 4-0 as the 49ers starting quarterback taking the team from 1-10 to 5-10 entering the 2017 season's final week. But how good has he been REALLY? I know he's 4-0 and there's something to be said for that. After all, winning IS the most important stat by which teams are measured. But is he the world beater that he's being made out to be? Let's take a closer look.

FIRST, let's consider who Garoppolo has around him. Garoppolo's top receivers in his four starts are as follows:

Marquise Goodwin (WR) - 27 receptions - 356 yards

*Goodwin has the same amount of catches in four starts with Garoppolo that he did in San Francisco's first eleven games. He stands 5'9".

Kyle Juszczyk (FB) - 13 receptions - 176 yards

*Juszczyk caught just 16 passes in San Francisco's first 11 games.

Trent Taylor (WR) - 15 receptions - 162 yards - 1 touchdown

*A rookie 5th-rounder, Taylor set career highs for receptions and yards in Garappolo's first start. He stands 5'8".

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/27

New additions in red.

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Nic Shimonek (SR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 416
2. Elijah Sindelar (JR), Purdue - Foster Farms Bowl vs Arizona - 396
3. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
4. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
5. Marcus McMaryion (JR), Fresno St. - Hawaii Bowl vs Houston - 342
6. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
7. Shane Morris (SR), Central Michigan - Famous Idaho Potato Bowl vs Wyoming - 329
8. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
9. Quinton Flowers (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 311
10. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Rashaad Penny (SR), San Diego St. - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs Army - 221
2. Ahmad Bradshaw (SR), Army - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs San Diego St. - 180
3. Alex Delton (SO), Kansas State - Cactus Bowl vs UCLA - 158
4. AJ Dillon (FR), Boston College - New Era Pinstripe Bowl vs Iowa - 157
5. Dorian Brown (SR), Ohio - Bahamas Bowl vs UAB - 152
6. Zack Moss (SO), Utah - Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl vs West Virginia - 150
7. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
8. Jalin Moore (JR), Appalachian St. - Dollar General Bowl vs Toledo - 125
9. Devin Singletary (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
10. Alex Barnes (SO), Kansas State - Cactus Bowl vs UCLA - 117


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Steven Dunbar (SR), Houston - Hawaii Bowl vs Fresno St. - 197
3. Keke Coutee (JR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 187
4. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
5. Gregory Phillips (SR), Purdue - Foster Farms Bowl vs Arizona - 149
6. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
7. Tommy Sweeney (JR), Boston College - New Era Pinstripe Bowl vs Iowa - 137
8. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
9. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 133
10. Jordan Lasley (JR), UCLA - Cactus Bowl vs Kansas State - 128

Bowl Standings By Conference Through 12/27

Yesterday's results in red.

ACC (2-1)

Boston College - L vs Big Ten
Duke - W vs MAC
Florida State - W vs Conference USA

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (2-2)

Houston - L vs Mountain West
SMU - L vs Conference USA
South Florida - W vs Big 12
Temple - W vs Conference USA

BIG TEN (2-0)

Iowa - W vs ACC
Purdue - W vs Pac 12

BIG 12 (2-2)

Kansas State - W vs Pac 12
Texas - W vs SEC
Texas Tech - L vs American
West Virginia - L vs Pac 12

CONFERENCE USA (4-5)

Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) - L vs MAC
Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Florida International - L vs American
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Southern Mississippi - L vs ACC
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

INDEPENDENTS (1-0)

Army - W vs Mountain West

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (1-4)

Akron - L vs Conference USA
Central Michigan - L vs Mountain West
Northern Illinois - L vs ACC
Ohio - W vs Conference USA
Toledo - L vs Sun Belt

MOUNTAIN WEST (3-2)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA
Fresno State - W vs American
San Diego State - L v Independent
Wyoming - W vs MAC

PAC 12 (1-3)

Arizona - L vs Big Ten
Oregon - L vs Mountain West
UCLA - L vs Big 12
Utah - W vs Big 12

SEC (0-1)

Missouri - L vs Big 12

SUN BELT (3-1)

Appalachian State - W vs MAC
Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/26

New additions in red.

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Nic Shimonek (SR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 416
2. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
3. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
4. Marcus McMaryion (JR), Fresno St. - Hawaii Bowl vs Houston - 342
5. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
6. Shane Morris (SR), Central Michigan - Famous Idaho Potato Bowl vs Wyoming - 329
7. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
8. Quinton Flowers (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 311
9. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305
10. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs Troy - 303


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Rashaad Penny (SR), San Diego St. - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs Army - 221
2. Ahmad Bradshaw (SR), Army - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs San Diego St. - 180
3. Alex Delton (SO), Kansas State - Cactus Bowl vs UCLA - 158
4. Dorian Brown (SR), Ohio - Bahamas Bowl vs UAB - 152
5. Zack Moss (SO), Utah - Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl vs West Virginia - 150
6. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
7. Jalin Moore (JR), Appalachian St. - Dollar General Bowl vs Toledo - 125
8. Devin Singletary (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
9. Alex Barnes (SO), Kansas State - Cactus Bowl vs UCLA - 117
10. Josh Anderson (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 113


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Steven Dunbar (SR), Houston - Hawaii Bowl vs Fresno St. - 197
3. Keke Coutee (JR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 187
4. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
5. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
6. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
7. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 133
8. Jordan Lasley (JR), UCLA - Cactus Bowl vs Kansas State - 128
9. Olabisi Johnson (JR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 119
9. Theo Howard (SO), UCLA - Cactus Bowl vs Kansas State - 119

Bowl Standings By Conferences Through 12/26

Yesterday's results in red.

ACC (1-0)

Duke - W vs MAC

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (2-2)

Houston - L vs Mountain West
SMU - L vs Conference USA
South Florida - W vs Big 12
Temple - W vs Conference USA

BIG 12 (1-2)

Kansas State - W vs Pac 12
Texas Tech - L vs American
West Virginia - L vs Pac 12

CONFERENCE USA (4-4)

Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) - L vs MAC
Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Florida International - L vs American
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

INDEPENDENTS (1-0)

Army - W vs Mountain West

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (1-4)

Akron - L vs Conference USA
Central Michigan - L vs Mountain West
Northern Illinois - L vs ACC
Ohio - W vs Conference USA
Toledo - L vs Sun Belt

MOUNTAIN WEST (3-2)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA
Fresno State - W vs American
San Diego State - L v Independent
Wyoming - W vs MAC

PAC 12 (1-2)

Oregon - L vs Mountain West
UCLA - L vs Big 12
Utah - W vs Big 12

SUN BELT (3-1)

Appalachian State - W vs MAC
Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/25

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Nic Shimonek (SR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 416
2. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
3. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
4. Marcus McMaryion (JR), Fresno St. - Hawaii Bowl vs Houston - 342
5. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
6. Shane Morris (SR), Central Michigan - Famous Idaho Potato Bowl vs Wyoming - 329
7. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
8. Quinton Flowers (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 311
9. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305
10. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs Troy - 303


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Rashaad Penny (SR), San Diego St. - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs Army - 221
2. Ahmad Bradshaw (SR), Army - Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl vs San Diego St. - 180
3. Dorian Brown (SR), Ohio - Bahamas Bowl vs UAB - 152
4. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
5. Jalin Moore (JR), Appalachian St. - Dollar General Bowl vs Toledo - 125
6. Devin Singletary (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
7. Josh Anderson (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 113
8. Boston Scott (SR), LA Tech - DXL Frisco Bowl vs SMU - 110
9. Tyler King (FR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 106
9. Quinton Flowers (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 106


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Steven Dunbar (SR), Houston - Hawaii Bowl vs Fresno St. - 197
3. Keke Coutee (JR), Texas Tech - Birmingham Bowl vs South Florida - 187
4. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
5. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
6. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
7. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (SR), South Florida - Birmingham Bowl vs Texas Tech - 133
8. Olabisi Johnson (JR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 119
9. Teddy Veal (JR) - LA Tech - DXL Frisco Bowl vs SMU - 118
10. Deon Yelder (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 112

Bowl Standings By Conference Through 12/25

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (2-2)

Houston - L vs Mountain West
SMU - L vs Conference USA
South Florida - W vs Big 12
Temple - W vs Conference USA

BIG 12 (0-1)

Texas Tech - L vs American

CONFERENCE USA (4-4)

Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) - L vs MAC
Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Florida International - L vs American
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

INDEPENDENTS (1-0)

Army - W vs Mountain West

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (1-3)

Akron - L vs Conference USA
Central Michigan - L vs Mountain West
Ohio - W vs Conference USA
Toledo - L vs Sun Belt

MOUNTAIN WEST (3-2)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA
Fresno State - W vs American
San Diego State - L v Independent
Wyoming - W vs MAC

PAC 12 (0-1)

Oregon - L vs Mountain West

SUN BELT (3-1)

Appalachian State - W vs MAC
Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

10 MLS Offseason Moves I Like

In no particular order...

1. Atlanta United trade for Darlington Nagbe. Atlanta scored 70 goals in their first MLS season, more than every team in the league with the exception of Toronto FC. Nagbe is a tremendous playmaker in the midfield, and should fit right in with the talent already in place on this roster.

2. FC Dallas adds Bulgarian International Anton Nedyalkov. After a solid run atop the Western Conference, FC Dallas regressed in 2017 finishing 7th in the West and missing the postseason. That said, they're still a Champions League side in 2018 and the addition of Nedyalkov, capped 5 times with Bulgaria, will help shore up their back line and give them a shot at a deep tournament run.

3. LA Galaxy trade for David Bingham. Assuming he signs, Bingham, a U.S. National Team keeper, would be a great addition for LA. The 2016 All-Star lost his starting job with San Jose in 2017 to Andrew Tarbell, but he's a clear upgrade over LA's 2017 stable of keepers that included Clement Diop (4-8-3, 2 shutouts), Brian Rowe (3-6-4, 2 shutouts) and Jon Kempin (1-4-1, 2 shutouts) and finished last in the West. Bingham, even in an off year last season, recorded 9 wins in 23 starts with 7 shutouts.

Random Stat Lists, Episode 12, 12/22/17

NBA Assist Leaders (APG)

1. Russell Westbrook (UCLA), Oklahoma City Thunder - 9.7
2. LeBron James (N/A), Cleveland Cavaliers - 9.2
3. James Harden (Arizona State), Houston Rockets - 9.0
4. Ben Simmons (LSU), Philadelphia 76ers - 7.8
5. Draymond Green (Michigan State), Golden State Warriors - 7.3
6. Kyle Lowry (Villanova), Toronto Raptors - 7.1
6. Jeff Teague (Wake Forest), Minnesota Timberwolves - 7.1
8. Lonzo Ball (UCLA), Los Angeles Lakers - 7.0
9. Dennis Schroder (N/A), Atlanta Hawks - 6.7
10. Stephen Curry (Davidson), Golden State Warriors - 6.6


NBA Turnover Leaders (TOPG)

1. DeMarcus Cousins (Kentucky), New Orleans Pelicans - 5.1
2. Russell Westbrook (UCLA), Oklahoma City Thunder - 4.6
3. James Harden (Arizona State), Houston Rockets - 4.4
4. LeBron James (N/A), Cleveland Cavaliers - 4.3
5. Ben Simmons (LSU), Philadelphia 76ers - 4.0
5. Joel Embiid (Kansas), Philadelphia 76ers - 4.0
5. D'Angelo Russell (Ohio State), Brooklyn Nets - 4.0
8. Kevin Durant (Texas), Golden State Warriors - 3.5
9. Dwight Howard (N/A), Charlotte Hornets - 3.4
10. Ricky Rubio (N/A), Utah Jazz - 3.2
10. Devin Booker (Kentucky), Phoenix Suns - 3.2
10. John Wall (Kentucky), Washington Wizards - 3.2

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/21

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
2. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
3. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
4. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
5. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305
6. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs Troy - 303
7. Conner Manning (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 276
8. Jason Driskel (JR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 270
9. Chase Litton (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 262
10. Frank Nutile (JR), Temple - Bad Boy Motors Gasparilla Bowl vs FIU - 259


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
2. Devin Singletary (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
3. Josh Anderson (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 113
4. Boston Scott (SR), LA Tech - DXL Frisco Bowl vs SMU - 110
5. Tyler King (FR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 106
6. David Hood (JR), Temple - Bad Boy Motors Gasparilla Bowl vs FIU - 76
7. Glenn Smith (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 73
8. Ryan Wolpin (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 71
9. Jason Driskel (JR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 67
10. Terelle West (SO), Middle Tennessee - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Arkansas St. - 65


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
3. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
4. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
5. Olabisi Johnson (JR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 119
6. Teddy Veal (JR) - LA Tech - DXL Frisco Bowl vs SMU - 118
7. Deon Yelder (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 112
8. Tevaris McCormick (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 107
8. Justin McInnis (JR), Arkansas State - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 107
10. Keith Kirkwood (SR), Temple - Bad Boy Motors Gasparilla Bowl vs FIU - 96

Bowl Standings By Conference Through 12/21

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (1-1)

SMU - L vs Conference USA
Temple - W vs Conference USA

CONFERENCE USA (4-3)

Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Florida International - L vs American
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (0-1)

Akron - L vs Conference USA

MOUNTAIN WEST (1-1)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA

PAC 12 (0-1)

Oregon - L vs Mountain West

SUN BELT (2-1)

Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Random Stat Lists, Episode 11, 12/21/17

NBA Scoring Leaders (PPG)

1. James Harden - Houston Rockets - 31.9
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks - 29.7
3. LeBron James - Cleveland Cavaliers - 28.2
4. Stephen Curry - Golden State Warriors - 26.3
4. Kevin Durant - Golden State Warriors - 26.3
6. DeMarcus Cousins - New Orleans Pelicans - 26.2
7. Anthony Davis - New Orleans Pelicans - 25.7
8. Kristaps Porzingis - New York Knicks - 25.5
9. Damian Lillard - Portland Trail Blazers - 25.2
10. Victor Oladipo - Indiana Pacers - 24.8


NBA Minutes Leaders (MPG)

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks - 38.0
2. LeBron James - Cleveland Cavaliers - 37.3
3. Jimmy Butler - Minnesota Timberwolves - 37.2
4. Khris Middleton - Milwaukee Bucks - 37.1
4. Damian Lillard - Portland Trail Blazers - 37.1
6. Jrue Holiday - New Orleans Pelicans - 37.0
6. Paul George - Oklahoma City Thunder - 37.0
8. CJ McCollum - Portland Trail Blazers - 36.8
9. Andrew Wiggins - Minnesota Timberwolves - 36.7
10. Ben Simmons - Philadelphia 76ers - 36.6

Bowl Standings By Conference Through 12/20

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (0-1)

SMU - L vs Conference USA

CONFERENCE USA (4-2)

Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Louisiana Tech - W vs American
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC) (0-1)

Akron - L vs Conference USA

MOUNTAIN WEST (1-1)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA

PAC 12 (0-1)

Oregon - L vs Mountain West

SUN BELT (2-1)

Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders Through 12/20

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
2. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
3. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
4. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
5. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305
6. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs Troy - 303
7. Conner Manning (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 276
8. Jason Driskel (JR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 270
9. Chase Litton (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 262
10. Justin Herbert (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 233


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
2. Devin Singletary (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
3. Josh Anderson (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 113
4. Boston Scott (SR), LA Tech - DXL Frisco Bowl vs SMU - 110
5. Tyler King (FR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 106
6. Glenn Smith (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 73
7. Ryan Wolpin (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 71
8. Jason Driskel (JR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 67
9. Terelle West (SO), Middle Tennessee - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Arkansas St. - 65
10. Braeden West (JR), SMU - DXL Frisco Bowl vs LA Tech - 56
10. Xavier Jones (SO), SMU - DXL Frisco Bowl vs LA Tech - 56


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
3. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
4. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
5. Olabisi Johnson (JR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 119
6. Teddy Veal (JR) - LA Tech - DXL Frisco Bowl vs SMU - 118
7. Deon Yelder (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 112
8. Tevaris McCormick (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 107
8. Justin McInnis (JR), Arkansas State - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 107
10. Roger Carter (FR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 85

Lavar Ball's Basketball League

According to ESPN.com, Lavar Ball intends to start his own basketball league for high school graduates that don't want to go the route of one-and-done in the NCAA before going pro. He intends to sign 80 players for ten teams that he'd pay between $3,000 and $10,000 a month. While on the one hand, I think this could afford some players an interesting opportunity, it comes with a tremendous amount of risk.

I have several questions:

1) The ESPN article says the league would be open to nationally ranked high school players, but how long would they be eligible to play in the league? Until they're drafted? Will the player pool be totally renewed each season? What happens to players who don't get drafted after one year? Obviously not every player in the league will be able to be drafted because there are more players than draft spots.

2) How many top high school players does Lavar feel he's going to get? If I'm a young player, aside from the promise of money, what's the draw for me to play in this league? Who are the coaches going to be? Will this just be an extension of the AAU game or will the league's intention be to further develop their players?

3) Who is going to be the fan base for these teams? Is the expectation that games will be televised? Most minor league clubs don't play in cities with major league teams of the same sport, is this league intending to compete with the NBA for viewership? How many fans will the league need to draw in order to break even? What will it cost to go see a game?

4) Who is helping Lavar Ball put this league together? I would have to imagine that putting together something of this magnitude would require the attention and expertise of more than one person. From renting arenas, to recruiting, to advertising, to contracts, to medical care, to referees, to travel, there are a ton of logistics to be handled. Is any of this, aside from maybe advertising, in Lavar's wheelhouse?

Don't get me wrong, having a league that serves as an alternative to college isn't the worst thing I've ever heard of. BUT, if I'm a kid in this situation, I don't know that $3,000-$10,000 a month is enough for me to sacrifice a full-ride to the college of my choosing. I also don't know that it will improve my chances of getting drafted. With no track record or guarantee of success, it's going to be a huge gamble for the first group of players and I'm not sure it's one worth taking with so much on the line. The NCAA, for all its faults, has proved that it can send players to the NBA. What can Lavar offer me? I don't know, but, like everything Ball-related, I'm intrigued at how this will all unfold.

Bowl Standings By Conference Through 12/19

CONFERENCE USA (3-2)

Florida Atlantic - W vs MAC
Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE (MAC)

Akron - L vs Conference USA

MOUNTAIN WEST (1-1)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA

PAC 12 (0-1)

Oregon - L vs Mountain West

SUN BELT (2-1)

Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Bowl Game Offensive Leaders - Through 12/19

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
2. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
3. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
4. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
5. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305
6. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs Troy - 303
7. Conner Manning (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 276
8. Jason Driskel (JR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 270
9. Chase Litton (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 262
10. Justin Herbert (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 233


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
2. Devin Singletary (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 124
3. Josh Anderson (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 113
4. Tyler King (FR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 106
5. Glenn Smith (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 73
6. Ryan Wolpin (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 71
7. Jason Driskel (JR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 67
8. Terelle West (SO), Middle Tennessee - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Arkansas St. - 65
9. Dalyn Dawkins (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 50
9. Gregory Howell (SR), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 50


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
3. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
4. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
5. Olabisi Johnson (JR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 119
6. Deon Yelder (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 112
7. Tevaris McCormick (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 107
8. Justin McInnis (JR), Arkansas State - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 107
9. Roger Carter (FR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 85
10. Kalib Woods (SO), Florida Atlantic - Cheribundi Tart Cherry Boca Raton Bowl vs Akron - 79

CCL Pairings for the Round of 16

The Round of 16 slate for the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League is set with matches slated to kick off in February. Here's a look at how the five MLS sides fared in the draw:

Seattle Sounders vs Santa Tecla (El Salvador)

Santa Tecla last appeared in the 2015-16 tournament where they took on Real Salt Lake in Group play. Santa Tecla drew 0-0 at home, but fell 2-1 on the road after taking a 1-0 lead in the second half.

New York Red Bulls vs Olimpia (Honduras)

Olimpia went 2-1-1 in group play in the 2016-17 tournament, losing to eventual champion Pachuca. In 2015-16 they were grouped with Seattle and Vancouver and finished 2-2 with wins over the Sounders (1-0) and Whitecaps (1-0) at home. In the 2014-15 tournament, Olympia knocked the Portland Timbers out during the group stage when they stunned Portland with a pair of early goals on their way to a 3-1 win in Tegucigalpa.

Colorado Rapids vs Toronto FC

At least one MLS club is guaranteed to reach the tournament's quarterfinals... During the 2017 regular season, Colorado and Toronto drew 1-1 in July. Toronto's goal was scored by Jay Chapman while Dominique Badji netter the equalizer for the Rapids. Jozy Altidore, Michael Bradley and Tim Howard all missed the match.

FC Dallas vs Tauro FC (Panama)

During the 2014-15 tournament, Tauro FC was pitted against DC United. United defeated Tauro 2-0 in DC and 1-0 in Panama.

Random Stat Lists, Episode 10, 12/19/17

NFL AFC Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Tom Brady (Michigan), New England Patriots - 4163
2. Ben Roethlisberger (Miami (OH)), Pittsburgh Steelers - 4025
3. Philip Rivers (North Carolina State), Los Angeles Chargers - 3838
4. Alex Smith (Utah), Kansas City Chiefs - 3738
5. Blake Bortles (Central Florida), Jacksonville Jaguars - 3147
6. Derek Carr (Fresno State), Oakland Raiders - 3113
7. Josh McCown (Sam Houston State), New York Jets - 2926
8. Andy Dalton (TCU) , Cincinnati Bengals - 2860
9. Marcus Mariota (Oregon), Tennessee Titans - 2823
10. Jacoby Brissett (North Carolina State) - 2769


NFL NFC Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Matthew Stafford (Georgia), Detroit Lions - 3920
2. Drew Brees (Purdue), New Orleans Saints - 3850
3. Russell Wilson (Wisconsin), Seattle Seahawks - 3669
4. Kirk Cousins (Michigan State), Washington Redskins - 3636
5. Jared Goff (Cal), Los Angeles Rams - 3503
6. Matt Ryan (Boston College), Atlanta Falcons - 3490
7. Carson Wentz (North Dakota State), Philadelphia Eagles - 3296
8. Case Keenum (Houston), Minnesota Vikings - 3219
9. Eli Manning (Ole Miss), New York Giants - 3073
10. Dak Prescott (Mississippi State), Dallas Cowboys - 2964


NBA Leaders in Triple-Doubles

1. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder - 10
2. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers - 6
3. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers - 3
4. James Harden, Houston Rockets - 2
4. Kyle Lowry, Toronto Raptors - 2
4. Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers - 2
7. Kevin Durant, Golden State Warriors - 1
7. DeMarcus Cousins, New Orleans Pelicans - 1
7. Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers - 1
7. Nikola Vucevic, Orlando Magic - 1
7. Rajon Rondo, New Orleans Pelicans - 1


2016-17 NBA Leaders in Triple-Doubles

1. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder - 42
2. James Harden, Houston Rockets - 22
3. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers - 13
4. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets - 6
5. Elfrid Payton, Orlando Magic - 5
5. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors - 5
7. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks - 3
7. Julius Randle, Los Angeles Lakers - 3
9. DeMarcus Cousins, New Orleans Pelicans - 2
9. Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls - 2
9. Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies - 2


NHL Scoring Leaders (Points, Goals-Assists)

1. Nikita Kucherov (Russia), Tampa Bay Lightning - 46 (23-23)
2. Steven Stamkos (Canada), Tampa Bay Lightning - 43 (12-31)
3. Jakub Voracek (Czech Republic), Philadelphia Flyers - 41 (8-33)
4. John Tavares (Canada), New York Islanders - 40 (19-21)
4. Johnny Gaudreau (USA), Calgary Flames - 40 (13-27)
4. Connor McDavid (Canada), Edmonton Oilers - 40 (12-28)
4. Josh Bailey (Canada), New York Islanders - 40 (9-31)
8. Anze Kopitar (Slovenia), Los Angeles Kings - 39 (17-22)
8. Nathan MacKinnon (Canada), Colorado Avalanche - 39 (15-24)
8. Blake Wheeler (USA), Winnipeg Jets - 39 (8-31)

Random Stat Lists, Episode 9, 12/18/17 v2

NCAA Men's Basketball AP Top 25 / USA Today Coaches Poll in Parentheses

1. Villanova (Big East) 11-0 (1)
2. Michigan State (Big Ten) 10-1 (2)
3. Arizona State (Pac 12) 10-0 (4t)
4. Duke (ACC) 11-1 (3)
5. North Carolina (ACC) 10-1 (4t)
6. Miami (ACC) 9-0 (7)
7. Kentucky (SEC) 9-1 (6)
8. Texas A&M (SEC) 9-1 (9)
9. Xavier (Big East) 10-1 (8)
10. West Virginia (Big 12) 9-1 (10)


NCAA Women's Basketball AP Top 25

1. Connecticut (American) 8-0
2. Notre Dame (ACC) 10-1
3. Louisville (ACC) 13-0
4. South Carolina (SEC) 10-1
5. Mississippi State (SEC) 11-0
6. Baylor (Big 12) 9-1
7. Tennessee (SEC) 11-0
8. Texas (Big 12) 9-1
9. West Virginia (Big 12) 10-0
10. Oregon (Pac 12) 9-2


NBA Scoring Leaders (Points Per Game)

1. James Harden (2009, 3rd Pick), Houston Rockets, 31.5
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo (2013, 15th Pick), Milwaukee Bucks, 29.8
3. LeBron James (2003, 1st Pick), Cleveland Cavaliers, 27.8
4. Stephen Curry (2009, 7th Pick), Golden State Warriors, 26.3
5. DeMarcus Cousins (2010, 5th Pick), New Orleans Pelicans, 26.2
6. Kevin Durant (2007, 2nd Pick), Golden State Warriors, 26.1
7. Damian Lillard (2012, 6th Pick), Portland Trail Blazers, 25.8
8. Kristaps Porzingis (2015, 4th Pick), New York Knicks, 25.5
9. Anthony Davis (2012, 1st Pick), New Orleans Pelicans, 25.2
10. Victor Oladipo (2013, 2nd Pick), Indiana Pacers, 24.4


NBA Scoring Leaders Among Prior #1 Draft Picks

1. LeBron James (2003), Charlotte Hornets - 27.8
2. Anthony Davis (2012), New Orleans Pelicans - 25.2
3. Kyrie Irving (2011), Boston Celtics - 24.2
4. Blake Griffin (2009), Los Angeles Clippers - 23.6
5. Karl-Anthony Towns (2015), Minnesota Timberwolves - 20.7
6. John Wall (2010), Washington Wizards - 19.4
7. Andrew Wiggins (2014), Minnesota Timberwolves - 18.2
8. Ben Simmons (2016), Philadelphia 76ers - 17.3
9. Dwight Howard (2004), Charlotte Hornets - 16.1
10. Derrick Rose (2008), Cleveland Cavaliers - 14.3

Real Madrid Wins FIFA Club World Cup

Real Madrid defeated Grêmio 1-0 on Saturday to win the FIFA Club World Cup for the third time in four years. Cristiano Ronaldo's second-half free kick accounted for all the scoring. Highlights are below.


Pachuca won the consolation final over Al-Jazira 4-1 behind goals from Jonathan Urretaviscaya, Franco Jara,  Roberto de la Rosa, and Angelo Sagal to finish third. U.S. National Teamer Omar Gonzalez appeared in all three of Pachuca's tournament games, starting the final two.

Star Wars Baseball Roster

So, being a huge Star Wars fan, I naturally was extremely interested when MLB.com Cut4 assembled a baseball roster out of Star Wars characters. HOWEVER, I immediately rejected this roster when they threw Jar-Jar Binks in as a platoon first baseman alongside Chewbacca. Jar-Jar? Seriously? That guy should at best be the mascot. Anyhow, here's my Star Wars 25 Man-roster complete with coaching staff, because I'm a huge Star Wars/Baseball nerd.

Starting Rotation: Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Darth Vader, Lando Calrissian.

*Your starters are your aces, the big names who command big dollars. By themselves they can carry a team, so the biggest names in the Star Wars galaxy should headline any Star Wars rotation. The top 4 are no-brainers, Lando's a bit fringy so he's your number five. Cut4 Picks: Obi-Wan Kenobi & Jamie Moyer.

Catcher: Obi-Wan Kenobi.

*The grizzled veteran is a calming influence and will undoubtedly work well with any pitching staff. Cut4 Pick: R2-D2.

First Base: Chewbacca.

*The dude is eight feet tall, he'll save the infield a lot of throwing errors with his reach. Cut4 Pick: Chewbacca/Jar-Jar Binks

Second Base: Rey.

Not a ton of size, but extremely agile/athletic. She'll be a natural turning double plays. Cut4 Pick: Poe Dameron

Shortstop: Yoda.

Frank Oz does the voice of Yoda. Ozzie Smith's nickname was the Wizard of Oz. Yoda's my shortstop. Yoda's quick feet and hands will make him a surefire gold glover. Nothing's getting through on the left side of the infield. Cut4 Pick: Han Solo.

Bowl Standings by Conference

While living in Louisiana for four years I got to hear how great SEC football was ALL THE TIME. LSU this, Alabama that, Florida Florida Florida. So naturally, I developed a hatred for all things SEC football, and it's always had me paying attention during bowl season so I could put together some ammo to argue about why SEC football isn't so great. Granted that hasn't worked out so well, but I do find it interesting looking at how each conference performs overall. Here are the standings through five bowl games. More updates to follow:

CONFERENCE USA (2-2)

Marshall - W vs Mountain West
Middle Tennessee - W vs Sun Belt
North Texas - L vs Sun Belt
Western Kentucky - L vs Sun Belt

MOUNTAIN WEST (1-1)

Boise State - W vs Pac 12
Colorado State - L vs Conference USA

PAC 12 (0-1)

Oregon - L vs Mountain West

SUN BELT (2-1)

Arkansas State  - L vs Conference USA
Georgia State - W vs Conference USA
Troy - W vs Conference USA

Random Stat Lists, Episode 8, 12/18/17

Bowl Game Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Brett Rypien (JR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 362
2. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 351
3. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 337
4. Nick Stevens (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 320
5. Brandon Silvers (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 305
6. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs Troy - 303
7. Conner Manning (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 276
8. Chase Litton (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 262
9. Justin Herbert (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 233
10. Brent Stockstill (JR), Middle Tennessee - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Arkansas St. - 232


Bowl Game Rushing Leaders (Yards)

1. Keion Davis (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 141
2. Josh Anderson (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 113
3. Tyler King (FR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 106
4. Glenn Smith (SR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 73
5. Ryan Wolpin (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 71
6. Terelle West (SO), Middle Tennessee - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Arkansas St. - 65
7. Dalyn Dawkins (SR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 50
8. Tavares Thomas (JR), Middle Tennessee - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Arkansas St. - 49
9. Warren Wand (JR), Arkansas State - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 46
10. Demarcus Kirk (JR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 35
10. Justice Hansen (JR), Arkansas St. - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 35


Bowl Game Receiving Leaders (Yards)

1. Cedrick Wilson (SR), Boise State - Las Vegas Bowl vs Oregon - 221
2. Tyre Brady (JR), Marshall - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Colorado State - 165
3. Dillon Mitchell (SO), Oregon - Las Vegas Bowl vs Boise State - 143
4. Damion Willis (JR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 135
5. Olabisi Johnson (JR), Colorado State - Gildan New Mexico Bowl vs Marshall - 119
6. Deon Yelder (SR), Western Kentucky - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Georgia State - 112
7. Tevaris McCormick (SR), Troy - R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl vs North Texas - 107
8. Justin McInnis (JR), Arkansas State - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 107
9. Roger Carter (FR), Georgia State - Autonation Cure Bowl vs Western Kentucky - 85
10. Chris Murray (SR), Arkansas State - Raycom Media Camellia Bowl vs Middle Tennessee - 76

Who has Improved the Most this MLB Offseason?

It's been a slow start to the MLB offseason, but not one that's been without some excitement, the signing of Japan's Babe Ruth, Shohei Otani, and the trade of MVP Giancarlo Stanton come to mind. With that, let's take a look at three teams who have improved themselves the most, and three that are in worse shape than they were two months ago.

THREE WINNERS

1. New York Yankees - With the addition of Giancarlo Stanton alone, the Yankees would've been the clear-cut winners this offseason, but they also managed to move the salaries of Starlin Castro and Chase Headley to help reduce their overall salary figure and put them in a position to potentially make a run at Manny Machado in 2018 or some additional starting pitching.

2. Los Angeles Angels - The Angels have been busy re-signing Justin Upton, winning the Shohei Otani sweepstakes, trading for Atlanta Braves closer Jim Johnson (who has two 50+ save seasons under his belt), and acquiring veteran infielders Ian Kinsler (via trade) and Zack Cozart (via free agency). When you add in the fact that they'll also be getting a healthy Mike Trout (limited to 114 games in 2017), this team quickly becomes a candidate for a big improvement on their 80-82 record last season.

3. Houston Astros - Yeah, it's a bit of a homer pick for me, but Houston came into the offseason with almost the entire team that won the World Series still under contract for 2018. Their only losses (or anticipated losses) from their 25-man World Series roster are Francisco Liriano, Luke Gregerson (Cardinals), Juan Centeno (Rangers), Cameron Maybin, and Carlos Beltran (retired). They also lost Mike Fiers (Tigers), but he didn't make any of Houston's postseason rosters this year and Houston's starting rotation is over-filled as it is. So, with a healthy Jake Marisnick likely to return as Houston's 4th outfielder and filling Maybin's slot, Max Stassi notionally serving as the back-up catcher with Evan Gattis getting more ABs as the DH to cover Beltran and Centeno, all that was really left was a couple of bullpen slots to fill. By adding Joe Smith from Cleveland and Hector Rondon from the Cubs, both of those bullpen slots appear to be filled, and while they didn't address the need for a lefty reliever, they do still have Tony Sipp under contract, and they took a flier on Rule 5 pick, outfielder-turned-pitcher Anthony Gose who's your typical low risk, high reward opportunity. I don't see Houston being on this list when the offseason is over just because so many big names are still on he board, but to be the defending champion in mid-December without any pressing needs is a good place to be.

Random Stat Lists, Episode 7, 12/15/17

German Bundesliga Top Scorers (Goals)

1. Robert Lewandowski (Poland) - Bayern Munich - 15
2. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon) - Borussia Dortmund - 12
3. Kevin Volland (Germany) - Bayer Leverkusen - 9
4. Alfred Finnbogason (Iceland) - FC Augsburg - 8
4. Timo Werner (Germany) - RB Leipzig - 8
4. Michael Gregoritsch (Austria) - FC Augsburg - 8
4. Mark Uth (Germany) - TSG Hoffenheim - 8
8. Guido Burgstaller (Austria) - Schalke 04 - 7
9. Salomon Kalou (Ivory Coast) - Hertha Berlin - 6
9. Nils Petersen (Germany) - SC Freiburg - 6
9. Martin Harnik (Austria) - Hannover 96 - 6
9. Maximilian Philipp (Germany) - Borussia Dortmund - 6


Spanish La Liga Top Scorers (Goals)

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) - Barcelona - 14
2. Simone Zaza (Italy) - Valencia - 10
3. Cedric Bakambu (DR Congo) - Villarreal - 9
3. Iago Aspas (Spain) - Celta Vigo - 9
5. Cristhian Stuani (Uruguay) - Girona - 8
5. Rodrigo (Spain) - Valencia - 8
7. Maximiliano Gomez (Uruguay) - Celta Vigo - 7
7. Willian Jose (Brazil) - Real Sociedad - 7
7. Antonio Sanabria (Paraguay) - Real Betis - 7
7. Luis Suarez (Uruguay) - Barcelona - 7


ESPN.com's Mel Kiper's Big Board - Top 10 2018 NFL Draft Prospects

1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
2. Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama
3. Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State
4. Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA
5. Sam Darnold, QB, USC
6. Derwin James, S, Florida State
7. Quentin Nelson, G, Notre Dame
8. Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
9. Christian Wilkins, DL, Clemson
10. Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama

How Many 2008 1st Round MLB Draft Picks Haven't Reached the Majors

This coming season will mark ten years after the 2008 MLB Draft. Let's go back to look and see how many of the players taken in the first round never actually made it to the show. While the 2008 Draft includes big names like Eric Hosmer and Buster Posey, there are a few players that didn't quite pan out:

22. Reese Havens, SS (New York Mets) - Havens' injury-plagued career saw him reach AAA and earn a spot on the Mets 40-Man Roster, but he never appeared in a major league game. In 345 minor league appearances, Havens hit .252. He was a mid-season All-Star with St. Lucie of the Florida State League in 2009, and an MILB.com organization All-Star for the Mets in 2011 after hitting .288 between A-Ball and AA in 61 games.

24. Anthony Hewitt, SS (Philadelphia Phillies) - Hewitt played in the minors for seven seasons, but only two of them were above A ball. After hitting .140 for AA Reading in 2014, he played just one more season and only appeared in 13 games in 2015. In 608 minor league games, Hewitt hit .223. He hit a career-high 16 homers in 2013, and he was a mid-season All-Star in 2011 in the South Atlantic League.

27. Carlos Gutierrez, RHP (Minnesota Twins) - Gutierrez spent six seasons in the minors, making it as a far as AAA, but didn't play after 2013. In 142 minor league appearances, Gutierrez posted an ERA of 4.00 and had a record of 15-20. He was a 2009 Mid-Season All-Star with Fort Myers of the Florida State League and he pitched for Puerto Rico during the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

The 2012 NBA Draft, Picks 31-40 - Where are they now?

For picks 51-60 check here.
For picks 41-50 check here.

Here are picks 31-40:

40. Will Barton - Now in his 6th NBA season, Barton is enjoying the best year of his career. In 27 games with the Nuggets, Barton is averaging 15.6 points (career best), 5.3 rebounds (second best), 3.5 assists (career best) while shooting a career high 47% from the field. He's appeared in 341 NBA games in his career between Portland and Denver and averaging 9.6 points and 3.7 rebounds. His career took off after getting traded from Portland. He averaged just 3.8 points a game for the Blazers, but with the Nuggets he's averaged 13.8.

39. Kris Middleton - Middleton spent one season as a reserve in Detroit before finding a role as the starting small forward for the Milwaukee Bucks. Middleton is averaging a career high 19.9 points per game this season while also setting career highs in rebounds (5.3) and assists (4.5). Middleton has made 250 starts in his 6 year career averaging 14.2 points and shooting 40% from 3-point range (481/1204).

38. Quincy Miller - Miller played three seasons in the NBA with the Nuggets, Kings and Pistons, appearing in 69 games and averaging 4.3 points and 2.4 rebounds. He's since played in Serbia, Israel, and most recently Germany, but he is currently without a team.

How Many Week 1 NFL Quarterbacks are Still Standing?

With Brock Osweiler called in to deliver the Broncos a victory over Indianapolis last night, I started wondering how many teams actually still have their Week 1 quarterback under center right now. Here's a look at the status of all of our Week 1 quarterbacks as we prepare for the rest of Week 15 this weekend. Players no longer starting are highlighted in red, players with injuries who may return are in orange. It's worth noting that no division will have the same four starting quarterbacks every week, the closest being the AFC North where Flacco, Dalton and Roethlisberger have started every game, but DeShone Kizer was benched for one start:

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys - Dak Prescott - Started all 13 games for Dallas

New York Giants - Eli Manning - Benched for Geno Smith in Week 13, returned in Week 14

Philadelphia Eagles - Carson Wentz - Tore ACL in Week 14, replaced by Nick Foles

Washington Redskins - Kirk Cousins - Started all 13 games for Washington

NFC North

Chicago Bears - Mike Glennon - Benched following Week 4 loss in favor of Mitch Trubisky

Detroit Lions - Matt Stafford - Started all 13 games for Detroit

Green Bay Packers - Aaron Rodgers - Broke collarbone in Week 6, may return this weekend

Minnesota Vikings - Sam Bradford - Knee surgery, out for season, replaced by Case Keenum

NFL South

Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan - Started all 13 games for Atlanta

Carolina Panthers - Cam Newton - Started all 13 games for Carolina

New Orleans Saints - Drew Brees - Started all 13 games for New Orleans

Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Jameis Winston - Missed 3 starts this season with injured shoulder

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals - Carson Palmer - Broken Arm, Drew Stanton also injured. Blaine Gabbert in

Los Angeles Rams - Jared Goff - Started all 13 games for LA

San Francisco 49ers - Brian Hoyer - Released after SF acquired Jimmy Garoppolo

Seattle Seahawks - Russell Wilson - Started all 13 games for Seattle

Lonzo-LeBron I

Lonzo Ball got his first shot at LeBron James tonight, and despite a pretty solid all-around game from the rookie, he was outmatched by LeBron and his Cavs, with King James delivering a triple-double in Cleveland's 121-112 win. LeBron James finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists as the Cavs overcame an early deficit on their way to their twenty first victory of the season. Ball finished with 13 points, 8 rebounds and 11 assists of his own, but had a career-worst 6 turnovers. Here's how Ball has fared early on against some of the league's best:

vs John Wall & Wizards, W 102-99, L 111-95

Ball - 6 pts (2/11 FG), 8 rebs, 10 assists; 10 pts (3/12), 8 rebs, 8 assists
Wall - 18 pts (7/22 FG), 3 rebs, 9 assists; 23 pts (8/18), 8 rebs, 5 assists

vs Kyle Lowry & Raptors, L 101-92

Ball - 5 pts (2/7 FG), 7 rebs, 6 assists
Lowry - 11 pts (4/14 FG), 10 rebs, 12 assists

vs Damian Lillard & Blazers, L 113-110

Ball - 0 pts (0/2 FG), 3 rebs, 4 assists
Lillard - 32 pts (8/18 FG), 6 rebs, 5 assists

How Did the Top Ten Picks of the 2016 MLB Draft Perform in 2017?

2017 was the first full season for the players drafted in the 2016 MLB Draft. Here's a look at how the top ten picks performed last year:

1. Mickey Moniak - Philadelphia Phillies - CF - Age 19

A - 123 Gs, 110/466 (.236 Avg), 22 2Bs, 6 3Bs, 5 HRs, 28 BBs, 109 Ks, 11 SBs, .625 OPS

Per MLB.com #1 Prospect in Phillies Organization

2. Nick Senzel - Cincinnati Reds - 3B - Age 22

A/AA - 119 Gs, 146/455 (.321 Avg), 40 2Bs, 3 3Bs, 14 HRs, 49 BBs, 97 Ks, 14 SBs, .905 OPS

Per MLB.com #1 Prospect in Reds Organization

3. Ian Anderson - Atlanta Braves - RHP - Age 19

A - 20 Gs, 83 IP, 43 BB, 101 K, 3.14 ERA, .232 Opp Avg, 1.35 WHIP

Per MLB.com #5 Prospect in Braves Organization

A Closer Look at the Rule 5 Draft Picks

The annual Rule 5 Draft was held this morning. Here's a look at the players who were picked and how they fared in 2017:

1. Detroit Tigers - Victor Reyes (Arizona) - RF

AA - .292 AVG (140/479), 4 HR, 51 RBI, 18 SB, 27 BB, 80 K, .731 OPS

2. San Francisco Giants - Julian Fernandez (Colorado) - RHP

A - 51 Gs, 58 IP, 3.26 ERA, .241 OPP AVG, 18 BB, 57 K, 1.24 WHIP

3. Philadelphia Phillies - Nick Burdi (Minnesota) - RHP

AA - 14 Gs, 17 IP, 0.53 ERA, .161 OPP AVG, 4 BB, 20 K, 0.76 WHIP

Random Stat Lists, Episode 6, 12/14/17

English Premier League Leading Scorers (Goals)

1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt) - Liverpool - 13
2. Harry Kane (England) - Tottenham Hotspur - 12
3. Sergio Aguero (Argentina) - Manchester City - 10
4. Raheem Sterling (England) - Manchester City - 9
4. Alvaro Morata (Spain) - Chelsea - 9
4. Romelu Lukaku (Belgium) - Manchester United - 9
4. Wayne Rooney (England) - Everton - 9
8. Alexandre Lacazette (France) - Arsenal - 8
8. Gabriel Jesus (Brazil) - Manchester City - 8
10. Jamie Vardy (England) - Leicester City - 7


English League Championship Leading Scorers (Goals)

1. Leon Clarke (England) - Sheffield United - 14
2. Matej Vydra (Czech Republic) - Derby County - 12
2. Leo Bonatini (Brazil) - Wolverhampton Wanderers - 12
4. Lewis Grabban (England) - Sunderland - 11
4. Britt Assombalonga (DR Congo) - Middlesbrough - 11
6. Bobby Reid (England) - Bristol City - 10
6. Albert Adomah (Ghana) - Aston Villa - 10
6. Gary Hooper (England) - Sheffield Wednesday - 10
6. Jarrod Bowen (England) - Hull City - 10
6. Martyn Waghorn (England) - Ipswich Town - 10


Dutch Eredivisie Leading Scorers (Goals)

1. Hirving Lozano (Mexico) - PSV Eindhoven - 10
2. Jurgen Locadia (Netherlands) - PSV Eindhoven - 9
2. Marco van Ginkel (Netherlands) - PSV Eindhoven - 9
4. Steven Berghuis (Netherlands) - Feyenoord Rotterdam - 8
4. Wout Weghorst (Netherlands) - AZ Alkmaar - 8
4. Tim Matavz (Slovenia) - Vitesse Arnhem - 8
4. Bartholomew Ogbeche (Nigeria) - Willem II Tilburg - 8
8. Zakaria Labyad (Morocco) - FC Utrecht - 7
8. Lasse Schone (Denmark) - Ajax Amsterdam - 7
8. Francisco Soler (Spain) - Willem II Tilburg - 7
8. David Neres (Brazil) - Ajax Amsterdam - 7

The 2017 FIFA Club World Cup

With their 2-1 win over Al-Jazira (UAE), Real Madrid has advanced to the finals of the 2017 FIFA Club World Cup where they'll take on Grêmio (Brazil). Grêmio defeated Pachuca (Mexico) 1-0 in the other semifinal in extra time. Real Madrid is in position to win their third Club World Cup Title in the past four years and would be the fifth straight European side to win the tournament. The last non-European side to win the FIFA Club World Cup was Corinthians, also from Brazil, when they defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the Final back in 2012.

For whatever reason, Mexico's squads have consistently struggled in the FIFA Club World Cup with just two third place finishes in the first 13 iterations off the tournament, the last coming in 2012 when Monterrey defeated Al Ahly (Egypt) in the consolation game. Here's a look at Mexico's past performances in the tournament:

2017 - Pachuca - Lost to Grêmio (Brazil) 1-0 in the Semifinals, Third Place Game vs Al-Jazira 12/16
2016 - América - Lost to Real Madrid 2-0 in the Semifinals, Finished 4th
2015 - América - Lost to Guangzhou Evergrande (China) 2-1 in the Quarterfinals, Finished 5th
2014 - Cruz Azul - Lost to Real Madrid 4-0 in the Semifinals, Finished 4th
2013 - Monterrey - Lost to Raja Casablanca (Morocco) 2-1 in the Quarterfinals, Finished 5th
2012 - Monterrey - Lost to Chelsea 3-1 in the Semifinals, Finished 3rd
2011 - Monterrey - Lost to Kashiwa Reysol 4-3 on penalties in the Quarterfinals, Finished 5th
2010 - Pachuca - Lost to TP Mazembe (DR Congo) 1-0 in the Quarterfinals, Finished 5th
2009 - Atlante - Lost to Barcelona 3-1 in the Semifinals, Finished 4th
2008 - Pachuca - Lost to LDU Quito (Ecuador) 2-0 in the Semifinals, Finished 4th
2007 - Pachuca - Lost to Étoile du Sahel (Tunisia) 1-0 in the Quarterfinals, Finished 6th
2006 - América - Lost 4-0 to Barcelona in the Semifinals, Finished 4th
2005 - No Liga MX teams qualified
2000* - Necaxa - Finished behind Vasco da Gama (Brazil) in Group B, 3rd Place Overall

*The 2000 Tournament consisted of two groups playing round robin with group winners playing for the championship, and group runner's up playing for third place.

The 2017 Club World Cup Final will be held on Saturday the 16th in Abu Dhabi.

How Many Former First Round Picks are on the Browns Roster?

The Cleveland Browns project to have two of the top six picks in the 2018 NFL Draft. Just for kicks, I thought it would be interesting to see how many former first round picks are currently on the Browns roster. Turns out the answer is six with three of them coming from the 2017 Draft.

Joe Thomas - OT, Wisconsin - 2007, 3rd Overall
Danny Shelton - NT, Washington - 2015, 12th Overall - 27 tackles
Corey Coleman - WR, Baylor - 2016, 15th Overall - 20 receptions, 268 yards, 2 touchdowns
Myles Garrett - DE, Texas A&M - 2017, 1st Overall - 24 tackles, 5 sacks
Jabrill Peppers - S, Michigan - 2017, 25th Overall - 43 tackles
David Njoku - TE, Miami - 2017, 29th Overall - 29 receptions, 335 yards, 4 touchdowns

The only truly notable performer out of the group so far is Joe Thomas who was drafted way back in 2007 and has since played in 10 Pro Bowls. What happened to all of Cleveland's other first round picks after Thomas? Let's look:

2007 - Brady Quinn - QB, Notre Dame - 22nd Overall - Last played in 2012
2008 - No picks before 4th Round
2009 - Alex Mack - C, California - 21st Overall - 3 Pro Bowls w/ Browns, left in 2016 for Atlanta
2010 - Joe Haden - CB, Florida - 7th Overall - 2 Pro Bowls w/ Browns, left in 2017 for Pittsburgh
2011 - Phil Taylor - NT, Baylor - 21st Overall - All-Rookie Team in 2011, Last played in 2014
2012 - Trent Richardson - RB, Alabama - 3rd Overall - Traded to Indy in 2013, Currently in CFL
2012 - Brandon Weeden - QB, Oklahoma St - 22nd Overall - Released in 2014, Currently w/ Titans
2013 - Barkevious Mingo - DE, LSU - 6th Overall - 2016 Option not picked up, Currently w/ Colts
2014 - Justin Gilbert - CB, Oklahoma St - 8th Overall - Traded to Steelers in 2016, suspended for '17
2014 - Johnny Manziel - QB, Texas A&M - 22nd Overall - Released in 2016
2015 - Cameron Irving - C, Florida State - 19th Overall - Traded to Chiefs in 2017

Three quarterbacks, and only two Pro Bowlers out of sixteen players. Needless to say, the 2018 NFL Draft will be an important one for the Browns.

Ball Watching, 12/13/17

In the latest episode of Ball Watching, Lonzo's Lakers fell 113-109 in overtime on the road to Kristaps Porzingis and the New York Knicks. Statistically, Ball actually put together a pretty nice game hitting six of thirteen shots from the floor (his six makes being the most he'd had in a single game since November 11th), hitting three of six shots from 3-point land (he was a combined two for thirteen over the previous four games), finishing with 17 points (most since he scored 19 on November 11th) and grabbing eight rebounds to go along with six assists.

In five December games, in which the Lakers are now 2-3, Ball is averaging 8.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists while shooting 39.5% from the field (a marked improvement from the 30.4% he shot in November). 

Next up for Ball and the Lakers, a trip to Cleveland tomorrow night where he'll face off with LeBron James. 

Just for kicks here's a look at how Ball's rookie numbers compare with LeBron's rookie numbers, as well as the rookie campaigns of some other notable guards:

Lonzo Ball - 8.9 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 7.0 apg, 32.7% FG PCT

LeBron James (2003-2004) - 20.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 5.9 apg, 41.7% FG PCT

Oscar Robertson (1960-1961) - 30.5 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 9.7 apg, 47.3% FG PCT

Jerry West (1960-1961) - 17.6 ppg, 7.7 rpg, 4.2 apg, 41.9% FG PCT

Magic Johnson (1979-1980) - 18.0 ppg, 7.7 rpg, 7.3 apg, 53.0% FG PCT

Isiah Thomas (1981-1982) - 17.0 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 7.8 apg, 42.4% FG PCT

Clyde Drexler (1983-1984) - 7.7 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 1.9 apg, 45.1% FG PCT

Michael Jordan (1984-1985) - 28.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 5.9 apg, 51.5% FG PCT

Gary Payton (1990-1991) - 7.2 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 6.4 apg, 45.0% FG PCT

Jason Kidd (1994-1995) - 11.7 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 7.7 apg, 38.5% FG PCT

Kobe Bryant (1996-1997) - 7.6 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 1.3 apg, 41.7% FG PCT

Tracy McGrady (1997-1998) - 7.0 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 1.5 apg, 45.0% FG PCT

Dwyane Wade (2003-2004) - 16.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 4.5 apg, 46.5% FG PCT

Chris Paul (2005-2006) - 16.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 7.8 apg, 43.0% FG PCT

Russell Westbrook (2008-2009) - 15.3 ppg, 4.9 rag, 5.3 apg, 39.8% FG PCT

Stephen Curry (2009-2010) - 17.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 5.9 apg, 46.2% FG PCT

James Harden (2009-2010) - 9.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.8 apg, 40.3% FG PCT

The 2012 NBA Draft, Picks 41-50 - Where are they now?

For a look at picks 51-60, click here.

50. Izzet Turkyilmaz - The 7' Turk played in the 2012 NBA Summer League, but his professional career has otherwise yet to cross the Atlantic. Turkyilmaz currently suits up for Selcuklu Belediyesi in his native Turkey.

49. Kyle O'Quinn - The Norfolk State alum is now in the midst of his sixth NBA season. After spending his first three NBA seasons with the Magic, O'Quinn joined the Knicks in July of 2015. The 6'10" big man has averaged 5.5 points and 4.7 rebounds in his career and has logged 348 career appearances, 53 of them starts.

48. Kostas Papanikoalaou - Papanikoalaou played parts of two seasons in the NBA, one with the Rockets and one with the Nuggets. He averaged 3.6 points in 69 career games shooting just 35.4% from the field. In January of 2016 Papanikoalaou signed a deal to return to Olmpiacos in Greece, where he played from 2009-2013.

47. Kevin Murphy - Murphy appeared in 17 games for the Jazz during the 2012-13 season but scored just 15 points on 7 of 28 shooting. He spent the 2016 preseason with the Orlando Magic, but was waived after appearing in two preseason games. He has since seen his playing career take him to China and he most recently signed a deal with Cedevita Zagreb in Croatia.

Random Stat Lists, Episode 5, 12/13/17

ESPN's Todd McShay's 2018 NFL Mock Draft 1.0

1. Cleveland Browns - Sam Darnold, QB, USC
2. New York Giants - Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA
3. Indianapolis Colts - Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State
4. San Francisco 49ers - Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama
5. Denver Broncos - Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming
6. Cleveland Browns - Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
8. Chicago Bears - Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama
9. New York Jets - Arden Key, DE, LSU
10. Cincinnati Bengals - Connor Williams, OT, Texas


NBA 3-PT Field Goal Percentage Leaders

1. Jayson Tatum (Duke) - Boston Celtics - 50.0% (46/92)
2. Tony Snell (New Mexico) - Milwaukee Bucks - 47.6% (39/82)
3. E'Twaun Moore (Purdue) - New Orleans Pelicans - 47.3% (53/112)
4. Buddy Hield (Oklahoma) - Sacramento Kings - 47.2% (50/106)
5. Luke Babbitt (Nevada) - Atlanta Hawks - 46.5% (40/86)
6. Al-Farouq Aminu (Wake Forest) - Portland Trail Blazers - 46.4% (26/56)
7. Klay Thompson (Washington State) - Golden State Warriors - 45.9% (96/209)
8. Marvin Williams (North Carolina) - Charlotte Hornets - 45.8% (44/96)
8. Joe Ingles (N/A) - Utah Jazz - 45.8% (71/155)
10. Chandler Parsons (Florida) - Memphis Grizzlies - 45.5% (35/77)


NFL Defensive Leaders (Tackles)

1. Zach Brown (North Carolina) - Washington Redskins, LB - 127
2. Joe Schobert (Wisconsin) - Cleveland Browns, LB - 122
3. Blake Martinez (Stanford) - Green Bay Packers, LB - 119
4. Bobby Wagner (Utah State) - Seattle Seahawks, LB - 115
4. C.J. Mosley (Alabama) - Baltimore Ravens, LB - 115
6. Christian Kirksey (Iowa) - Cleveland Browns, LB - 111
7. Demario Davis (Arkansas State) - New York Jets, LB - 109
7. Deion Jones (LSU) - Atlanta Falcons, LB - 109
9. Preston Brown (Louisville) - Buffalo Bills, LB - 107
10. Wesley Woodyard (Kentucky) - Tennessee Titans, LB - 106

The 2012 NBA Draft, Picks 51-60 - Where are they now?

We're going to do this in reverse because the lower picks are likely to be far more interesting. Here we go!

60. Robert Sacre - The 7'0" Sacre averaged 4.2 point and 3.1 rebounds over parts of four seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers. He's currently a member of Sun Rockers Shibuya, a Japanese B League team where he plays alongside former University of Kentucky big man Josh Harrellson.

59. Marcus Denmon - Denmon has played his entire professional career overseas featuring with clubs in France, Turkey, Italy and Greece. He is currently under contract with Panathinaikos where he plays with fellow Americans Kenny Gabriel, James Gist, K.C. Rivers and Chris Singleton. The Spurs renounced his draft rights in 2016.

58. Robbie Hummel - Hummel retired form basketball in October taking a job as a studio analyst and color commentator for ESPN. Hummel played two seasons with the Timberwolves averaging 3.9 points per game before taking his game to Italy and later Russia.

The CCL is Coming!

We're less than a week away from the draw for the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League, a fact that it seems few people are excited about. And to me, that's really sad. I get it that in the Champions League Era, 2008 until now, MLS has never won the tournament. Only twice has MLS even put a team in the finals, 2011 when it was Real Salt Lake, and 2015 when it was the Montreal Impact. Still, it's our continent's BIGGEST CLUB TOURNAMENT! MLS has FIVE TEAMS in it. There are only sixteen teams total! We don't get the World Cup this summer, so let's go all-in on the CCL. I really hope that our five teams take it seriously and that we see starters on the field rather than a hodgepodge of prospects and seldom used veterans. Winning this tournament would be a huge deal for MLS and for soccer in the U.S. (and maybe Canada). If we want to be the best league in our region, we need to show that we can be better than Liga MX. Hey, and maybe one of these days, they'll even put the games on tv!

Ball in the Family Meets New Girl

I've got to admit it, all I can think about when I try to process the younger Ball brothers' contract to play basketball in Lithuania is New Girl's Winston Bishop's two-year stint as a basketball player in Latvia.

Some great lines from New Girl Season 3 Episode 11, Clavado en un Bar:

Winston: I was the ninth guy off the bench for the eighth best team in Latvia.

Winston: I haven't played all year, they barely let me practice.

Coach: You are traded to Kraslava City.
Winston: The Outdoor League? Man, they play on a hillside!
Coach: I give you surprise tip: uphill basket better.

Thanks Tom Brady

And just like that, the streak is over. A seemingly safe pick of the New England Patriots, who entered the night with a record of 10-2 and winners of eight in a row, to beat the Miami Dolphins, a 5-7 team quarterbacked by Jay Cutler, was not to be. Forgetting that the Dolphins always play New England tough in Miami, I foolishly allowed myself to get comfortable and think win #17 was in the bag. Alas, Jay Cutler outperformed Tom Brady throwing for 263 yards and three scores as Miami hung on for a 27-20 win. And just like that, we're back to zero. It was a good run, but all good things must come to an end... But hey, at least the Patriots hater in me is glad that New England lost.

Random Stat Lists, Episode 4, 12/12/17

Men's College Basketball AP Top 25

1. Villanova (Big East) - 10-0
2. Michigan State (Big Ten) - 9-1
3. Wichita State (American) - 8-1
4. Duke (ACC) - 11-1
5. Arizona State (Pac 12) - 9-0
6. Miami (FL) (ACC) - 8-0
7. North Carolina (ACC) - 9-1
8. Kentucky (SEC) - 8-1
9. Texas A&M (SEC) - 8-1
10. Xavier (Big East) - 9-1


Women's College AP Top 25

1. Connecticut (American) - 8-0
2. Notre Dame (ACC) - 9-1
3. Louisville (ACC) - 11-0
4. South Carolina (SEC) - 9-1
5. Mississippi State (SEC) - 9-0
6. Baylor (Big 12) - 8-1
7. Tennessee (SEC) - 10-0
8. Texas (Big 12) - 7-1
9. Oregon (Pac 12) - 8-1
10. West Virginia (Big 12) - 9-0


NBA Scoring Leaders (PPG)

1. James Harden (Arizona State), Houston Rockets - 32.0
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo (N/A), Milwaukee Bucks - 29.8
3. LeBron James (N/A), Cleveland Cavaliers - 28.3
4. Damian Lillard (Weber State), Portland Trail Blazers - 26.6
5. Stephen Curry (Davidson), Golden State Warriors - 26.3
6. DeMarcus Cousins (Kentucky), New Orleans Pelicans - 26.1
7. Kevin Durant (Texas), Golden State Warriors - 25.7
8. Kristaps Porzingis (N/A), New York Knicks - 25.5
9. Anthony Davis (Kentucky), New Orleans Pelicans - 25.1
10. Victor Oladipo (Indiana), Indiana Pacers - 24.5

UEFA Champions League Parings

Here's the draw for the Round of 16, matches will resume in February:

Juventus (Italy) vs Tottenham Hotspur (England)
FC Basel (Switzerland) vs Manchester City (England)
FC Porto (Portugal) vs Liverpool (England)
Sevilla (Spain) vs Manchester United (England)
Real Madrid (Spain) vs Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine) vs A.S. Roma (Italy)
Chelsea (England) vs Barcelona (Spain)
Bayern Munich (Germany) vs Besiktas J.K. (Turkey)

Ball Watching

Yes, I'll admit it, like so many others, I've become hooked on the whole Lavar/Lonzo Ball saga. I find the whole thing fascinating. Don't get me wrong, I think some of the behavior exhibited by the Ball patriarch is appalling and completely unacceptable, and I find myself rooting against Lonzo Ball and his brothers with every fiber of me being, but I almost wonder if Lavar Ball isn't some sort of evil marketing genius. How much of his behavior is just an act? Is he smarter than we all give him credit for? He's obviously glommed onto the idea that louder is better, and the more absurd you are in what you say, the more press you get. And here we are with a man who's getting tons in free advertising, and has become a household name on the strength of his brash approach, and on the talent of one of his son's who's played one solid season in college and has had intermittent success in the NBA thus far. It's crazy and it shouldn't work. We shouldn't be rewarding people for this type of behavior, right? We shouldn't be promoting pulling kids out of high school, and getting coaches fired, and degrading women, and bigotry, and so on. And yet, here I am talking about it, and feeding the beast. And even knowing this, I don't want to stop. With that said, I'll probably be posting Lonzo Ball updates a fair amount because I'm interested. If you're not, I apologize in advance.

Anyhow, don't look now, but the Lakers have started off a four-game road trip with back-to-back wins over Philadelphia and Charlotte, and now at 10-15 are just two games behind the Utah Jazz in the race for the 8 seed in the West. Lonzo's contributions? A solid 10 point, 8 rebound, 8 assist effort in the win over the 76ers that included the game winning assist, and a 5 point, 5 rebound, 9 assist effort against the Hornets. Through 25 games, Ball now averages 8.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 7.1 assists. Here are the lines for some of the league's other rookie guards that came out of the 2017 draft, i.e. not Ben Simmons.

Donovan Mitchell - SG - Utah Jazz - 13th Overall Pick - 17.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.2 apg

Dennis Smith Jr. - PG - Dallas Mavericks - 9th Overall Pick - 14.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 4.0 apg

De'Aaron Fox - PG - Sacramento Kings - 5th Overall Pick - 10.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 4.0 apg

Frank Mason III - PG - Sacramento Kings - 34th Overall Pick - 8.2 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 3.2 apg

And Ben Simmons, your 1st overall pick in 2016, now healthy:

Ben Simmons - PG - Philadelphia 76ers - 1st Overall Pick 2016 - 18.0 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 7.7 apg

The Streak Continues!

No, we're not talking about Manchester City and their absurd start to the Premier League season, we're talking about ESPN's Streak for the Cash where I've bucked history and reeled off a "career-high" 16 straight wins. Looking at the leaderboard that puts me exactly... 18 wins behind the leader... Someone's gotten 34 in a row? Are you serious? Good grief...

Anyhow, I'm taking the Patriots tonight over the Dolphins to try and make it 17 straight. Here's a look at my last six picks. For wins 1-10, you can click here.

W11 - NBA - Houston Rockets vs Utah Jazz straight up. Houston wins 112-101. (98.4% Picked)

W12 - NCAA Women's Volleyball - Florida vs UCLA straight up. Florida wins 3-1. (99.0% Picked)

W13 - NBA - Milwaukee Bucks vs Dallas Mavericks straight up. Milwaukee wins 109-102. (99.7% Picked)

W14 - NCAA Men's Basketball - Creighton vs Nebraska straight up. Creighton wins 75-65. (98.1% Picked)

W15 - NFL - Green Bay Packers vs Cleveland Browns straight up. Green Bay wins 27-21. (97.4% Picked)

W16 - NHL - Chicago Blackhawks vs Arizona Coyotes straight up. Chicago wins 3-1. (99.5% Picked)

Summarizing the Astros Offseason Thus Far

It's been a pretty quiet offseason for the Astros now that all of the parades are over. Here's a quick summary:

Catcher Juan Centeno didn't clear waivers and was picked up by the Texas Rangers.

Mike Fiers, who was arbitration eligible, wasn't tendered a contract and has since signed a one-year free agent deal with the Detroit Tigers.

Luke Gregerson has reportedly agreed to a 2-year deal with the St. Louis Cardinals.

Carlos Beltran announced his retirement after finally winning his first World Series.

The Astros have made one trade sending minor league outfielder Ramon Laureano to Oakland for minor league pitcher Brandon Bailey.

Players that the Astros were linked to that have signed elsewhere include:

Mike Minor - Texas Rangers
Justin Morrow - Chicago Cubs
Shohei Otani - Los Angeles Angels

Meanwhile, the Yankees traded for Giancarlo Stanton. Sweet...

What Just Happened...

A little over a month after missing the World Series by one game, the New York Yankees have gone out and traded for Giancarlo Stanton, the 2017 National League MVP. As an Astros fan, still basking in the glow of Houston's first ever World Series title, all I can do is stupidly blurt out: WHAT'S GOING ON HERE!?!?!?

It's not just that the Yankees got Stanton, he of the 59-homer 2017 campaign, to partner up with The Judge, he of the 52-homer 2017 campaign, it's that they got him for practically NOTHING. In exchange for Stanton, the Marlins will take home All-Star infielder Starlin Castro who hit .300 in 2017 while playing mostly second base, but batted just .220 (11/50) with no homers, one run batted in, and fourteen strikeouts in the 2017 playoffs. Presumably Castro will take over at second base in Miami now that Dee Gordon has been traded to Seattle. In addition to Castro, the Marlins will also net two prospects, neither one named Gleyber Torres. Instead Miami will acquire hard throwing right-handed pitcher Jorge Guzman, one of the guys the Astros traded to get Brian McCann last winter, and 18 year-old shortstop Jose Devers, who batted .245 in Rookie Ball in 2017. And that's it. That's it??? ARE YOU KIDDING ME???

New York now enters 2018 with a lineup that includes Stanton (led NL in homers in 2017), Judge (led AL in homers in 2017), AND Gary Sanchez (33 homers in 2017) to go along with Brett Gardner (LF), Didi Gregorius (SS), Greg Bird (1B), and Aaron Hicks (CF). AND, as it stands right now, they're in a prime position to snag Manny Machado, who would fill one of their biggest needs at third base, in 2019, AND they have the option to man second base with uber-prospect Torres. Oh, and they have an awesome bullpen. Oh, and their starting rotation isn't half bad either. Yes folks, the Yankees are the Yankees again. The Evil Empire. The team we can all root against. The question is, can they be beaten?

Maybe? For you Yankee-haters out there, you can take comfort in the following:

Aaron Judge, monster that he is, only batted .188 (9/48) during the 2017 postseason with 27 strikeouts.

Giancarlo Stanton, despite all of his 2017 accolades, batted just .240 in 2016, and in his seven previous seasons (2010-2016), never eclipsed 40 homers, never scored 100 runs, and only drove in 100 once.

Gary Sanchez hit just .208 (11/53) with one walk and 19 strikeouts during the 2017 postseason.

So you're saying there's a chance...

This group of Bronx Bombers might not be infallible, but it's definitely enough to put the rest of the league on notice that the Yankees intend to win it in '18.

Thanks Yankees, you couldn't even let me enjoy this victory until the New Year! COME ON!

Random Stat Lists, Episode 3, 12/8/17

More lists, because why not!!


NCAA Football Passing Leaders (Yards)

1. Mason Rudolph (SR), Oklahoma State - 4553
2. Baker Mayfield (SR), Oklahoma - 4340
3. Riley Ferguson (SR), Memphis - 3971
4. Mike White (SR), Western Kentucky - 3826
5. Tyler Rogers (SR), New Mexico State - 3825
6. McKenzie Milton (SO), Central Florida - 3795
7. Sam Darnold (SO), USC - 3787
8. Logan Woodside (SR), Toledo - 3758
9. Mason Fine (SO), North Texas - 3749
10. Josh Rosen (JR), UCLA - 3717


NBA Scoring Leaders by Team (PPG)

1. Golden State Warriors (20-6) - 117.8
2. Houston Rockets (19-4) - 114.0
3. Toronto Raptors (15-7) - 111.5
4. Cleveland Cavaliers (18-7) - 111.1
5. New Orleans Pelicans (13-12) - 109.4
5. Brooklyn Nets (10-14) - 109.4
7. Indiana Pacers (14-11) - 108.4
8. Philadelphia 76ers (13-11) - 108.0
9. Orlando Magic (11-15) - 107.5
9. Minnesota Timberwolves (15-11) - 106.8