Macca

Wild card weekend games ... Sunday 8.35am Kansas City at Indianapolis (OneHD & ESPN) 12.10pm New Orleans at Philadelphia (OneHD & ESPN) Monday 5.05am San Diego at Cincinnati (OneHD & ESPN) 8.40am San Francisco at Green Bay (OneHD & ESPN) Tips and scorelines ... if we get enough participants, we can run a playoff comp. I point for each win with 3 points for the Super Bowl winner. KC 26 Indi 28 Saints 32 Philly 29 Bolts 18 Cinci 28 49ers 31 Packers 33 Wouldn't surprise if I only got 1 right (straight winners that is!) Might even be none. Don't mind being wrong on KC and the Eagles though. Would like to see both teams get a playoff win. Obviously I had to pick the Packers but we'll need a lot of things to go our way. Kaepernick has to be held to a lot less than stellar game (shudder) Their defense kills ours so Rodgers will need to have a big one. Running game will have to match theirs. By crikey, that's a lot to ask for Sunday morning 8.30am - bring it!

I agree, jazza Them not having Kallis puts a bit of pressure on their spinner (Peterson) as well. I'd rather Jacques was playing in order for us to really get tested - they'll miss him. There's talk of an all-rounder coming in and batting at no.7 for them but I don't know who. You might assume that de Villiers, Duminy and du Plessis would all move up one spot in the batting order. At least 4 Tests would have been so much better as well. I guess you can't have everything. They are a hell of a side but we somehow find a way to match-up against them (especially over there) No predictions from me - there's too many variables (plus, I'm a shocking tipster!) At home, they'll be tough to beat. Could end up being a battle of the fast bowlers. Just want to see us continue to play the way we are right now.

The Chargers can be a good team and when Rivers is "on", they move the ball very well. But like a number of other teams, they can't be relied upon. I wouldn't be surprised if they won, but they're going to have to bring their 'A' game you'd reckon. Make that 4 games where I'm "unclear!" Tips will be interesting and I like 'pantaloons' idea of the scorelines! I wonder how close any of us will get?

t20 and the "Big Bash" can fall into the category of "Popular culture" in many ways. You don't have to like it and you don't have to watch it, but you're probably going to have to accept it. It's popular and in my opinion, it will only get more popular. In fact, it's already made some tremendous inroads in a very short space of time. CA and channel 10 are pumping a lot of money and resources into the "sport." Of course, it may become less popular but that might be more a "wish" with some people. That type of view could also end up being along the lines "wishful thinking." In Australia, it's the only team sport that is shown on prime time, "free-to-air," commercial TV on an Australia wide basis. Every other team sport has some sort of restriction when it comes to prime time commercial TV (the NRL and AFL are not shown in certain States during prime time - as for Rugby and Soccer - you'll need cable) Channel 10 forked out 100 million for 5 years for the broadcasting rights. Apart from the "Big Bash", we may also not be interested in watching the IPL or even take any interest in the IPL. (the IPL is not broadcast into Australia anyway) However, there's no denying the IPL's popularity (we're talking hundreds of millions of fans - or at least tens of millions of fans) 37 Australian players were involved in the IPL last year (even Pup is involved - Clarke signed on for $400,000 but didn't participate because of his bad back) I don't see this"version" of cricket as necessarily being a threat to Test cricket (one-day cricket was once viewed this way) In fact, I can see the sport as being an overall help to cricket in general. However, certain Countries need to address their own fans interest in Test cricket. Some of the crowd numbers outside of Australia and England are worrying. Marketed better? Better scheduling, pricing and creature comforts? We don't seem to have an issue in Melbourne - phenomenal crowd numbers. New fans of t20 may end up watching Test cricket when they may never have watched it before. Many of the players involved in the various t20 leagues around the world also play Test cricket. Fans will follow their heroes and favourites. t20 can offer a pathway to cricket for a young bloke like never before. The money on offer is huge (especially in the IPL) A top batsman should be able to adapt to all 3 forms of the game - many players are already doing just that. t20 may lead to higher scoring rates in Test cricket and thus, bring in more fans. (I believe that "One day Cricket" has had that effect over the years) Fans of Test cricket don't necessarily need to see higher scoring rates but it can't hurt. We may also see more wicket taking opportunities as a result. As stated above, a good batsman should be able to adapt to all 3 forms of the game (the South Africans - Smith, Amla, Kallis and AB de Villiers don't seem to have any trouble adapting) If you're 'A' grade, you can adapt. t20's popularity with certain demographics is the whole key here. If you're not part of that demographic, it probably won't matter. In summary, I believe we're all going to have to get used to it. It's not going away in a hurry. What may seem remarkable is that I can have this view yet not be all that interested in watching t20. I tune in occasionally. I'm attempting a more balanced view here because on a personal note, I'd rather watch a movie! It's Ashes versus bashes as Nine and Ten in cricket ratings battle

Philly can be very good and they can also be average. A lot can happen on the day and Brees is top notch. It could be a case of who turns up on the day. I'm not absolutely clear on 3 of the games to be honest (the Bengals should win their game) The Indi/KC game could throw up any sort of result and there are still a number of "unknowns" with a few of the other teams. Of the teams who are involved this coming weekend, probably only San Francisco, New Orleans and Cincinnati can be "read" with any certainty - you sort of know what you're getting with those 3 sides (both home and away) The rest are unpredictable. Of the 4 sides not playing this weekend, I'm still unsure on New England and Carolina. With the Pats, it's their receiving core and with the Panthers, it's their offense. The odds are set for 3 close ones this weekend (San Francisco, Philadelphia and the Colts are favoured by less than a field goal) The Bengals are favoured by a TD.

Well, one team will have to win so one group of Demon fans will be happy (there are other Packer fans here - I'm sure of it!) It's all pointing to a close one and the winner of this game could go on a bit during the playoffs (especially if Seattle are avoided in week 2) The Eagles/Saints game could go either way but at least we'll know what lies ahead before the game starts. But of course it's "One game at a time"

Home field has gotta help. We played a good game against them in the opening round in San Francisco. If we were all guns blazing then I'd still be wary. So much is going to depend on how much the team gels together. I really rate the 49ers but Rodgers is capable of anything. So is Kaepernick of course. We need to limit Gore but our new running game will concern them as well. Am I being biased in saying it's the match-up of wild-card weekend? All 4 games offer a lot though. If the Saints win in Philly, I think they go to Seattle (being the 6 seed) Whoever wins out of Green Bay and San Francisco will know their next opponent before their game actually starts (I think) KC @ Indi could be a cracker and the Chargers might push Cinci. But I don't feel lucky to be in the playoffs - just a bit shocked. We're certainly capable and the organisation's mindset is to have an expectation to be in the playoffs. I'm reasonably confident that we'll put up a good show - that's gonna have to do! They don't muck around over there - although it's usually done on the Monday after the regular season (?) Or is it after the Superbowl? I think 7 or 8 head coaches got their marching orders last year - nearly all on the same day.

No one is more surprised than me 'cfh'. I gave us virtually no chance and thought that the Lions and Bears would kick clear. Just another example of ... "Ya just never know". Tough, tough game coming up against the niners but it is at home. Wild old day with the Steelers getting so close to a playoff berth. Panthers just got over the line - if they lost that, we'd be talking the Saints up in the dome. There's such a fine line in this sport. Think I'm right in saying that the lowest winning seed on wild-card weekend, gets to play in Seattle the following week. Some reward! I'm already looking forward to Sunday on the couch. The cricket will be "scores only!"

The 49ers have won the last 3 clashes against the Packers (the last encounter was in San Francisco when there was nothing in it at the finish) Interestingly, the Packers have won 8 of their last 9 games at home against the 49ers (but not the last one!) GB vs 49ers results The Packers will be better for the run. Rodgers and the team are one of those sides where they need to get in sync. Rusty at times today but that wasn't an unexpected thing. Should be a great match next week (8.40am next Monday) May the better team win! We're very well represented in the play-offs on this thread ... Eagles, Chiefs, Bengals, 49ers, Packers, Seahawks and Denver all getting through. Bad luck for the Rams, Bears and Vikings posters - there's always next year! Here's next week's schedule ... Sunday 8.35am Kansas City at Indianapolis (OneHD & ESPN) 12.10pm New Orleans at Philadelphia (OneHD & ESPN) Monday 5.05am San Diego at Cincinnati (OneHD & ESPN) 8.40am San Francisco at Green Bay (OneHD & ESPN) And congratulations are in order for our joint winners in the tipping comp. Here's the final points tally ... 9 - Strafford, cowboy from hell (joint winners) 7 - pantaloons, Macca 5 - Gorgoroth 1 - DemonDave 0 - 45HG, Norm Smith's Curse, Arrow, bananas Well done to 'cowboy from hell' and 'Strafford' 'cfh' led from the start and then 'Strafford' slowly but surely chased him down. Level going into the last round, both earned 3 points to take the prize - worthy winners of the inaugural competition! Well played to all the participants ... it's been a bit of fun and rather challenging (to say the least) We might tweak it a bit if we do it all again next year. Open to suggestions. Had a brief discussion with 'cowboy from hell' about a playoffs comp. Tip the winners of all the games (1 point each) with 3 points for the SuperBowl. Fairly basic and if you're interested, give a shout out. Or just post your tips. But for now, winners are grinners!

We're all success starved Demons, jazza. I'll take these wins in the "other" sports any day of the week. It seems the cricket side is playing with a lot more confidence and self belief - that's what our footy club desperately needs - in spades. Roosey would be aware of that and a big improvement in those areas might be the first thing we notice next season. "May a thousand fleas invade my armpits" - I got a good laugh out of that! Keep punchin'

Lol - you're a beauty, jazza As for Agar - I thought it was an ok idea at the time. Worth a punt. Didn't work out but so what? It's not a perfect world and besides all that, most have probably moved on from that decision. Didn't he make 98? He is also a future prospect. I don't mind being wrong either - it's sport. We're all going to get it wrong from time to time.

We're 4 nil up and we've won the Ashes (against the odds) You should be ecstatic. You should also give credit where credit is due.

Woohoo!!! Pack Pack Pack!

I'm not over indulging with Lehmann though he does seem to have made a big difference. Maybe it"s more a comment about the previous regime. If anyone is over indulging it's you. You have so much hate for your own players.

With KC resting so many of their starters, the Chargers are a shoo-in to win that game you'd reckon. Dolphins really struggling and the Ravens are done by the looks of it. Could be the Bolts for the play-offs. If they somehow lose, the Steelers can grab that last wild-card spot. Panthers will need to finish well also - currently 21-20 over Atlanta with just over 2 minutes to play. They just got the ball back and should hang on.

It's out of you and 'cfh' now and fittingly so. pantaloons and myself have the same tips as you 2 leaders (albeit separately) Besides, if the Packers get up, I reckon we'll all get the 3 points as I can't see any of Carolina, Denver or Philly losing (but of course, we say that every week, don't we? ) Gorgoroth could finish outright 3rd if things fall his way. I thought of picking 3 left field choices but the lure of the 3 points on offer is just too strong! Good luck to all and well played, gentlemen! ps Your blokes are an outside chance for the 2 seed - Bills would have to pull off a major surprise for that to happen - ya just never know! I reckon you'll take care of business against the Ravens - however, they've got a lot to play for and it's sure to be close. Miami can still hold them out but trying to work all that out hurts my brain.

Yep. Hopefully they've had a real think about how he's protected going forward. Previously, he's been sacked way too many times. I don't want him running with the ball unless it's absolutely necessary. Peyton and Tom don't do a lot of scrambling, nor should Rodgers. If we can't win with him throwing the ball from the pocket, so be it. We've now got a reasonable running game so it should be a no-brainer (it's not just about tomorrow either) The Bears are sure to be fired up and it should be a crackin' match. Tunein radio will most probably have the game covered. That'll have to do. There's a lot more going on tomorrow - especially in the later games.

Was looking for a Packer in that Pro Bowl list and then I remembered ... We're a one man team! Lacy might go close to being the (offensive) ROTY though. 3rd favourite behind your bloke, Tavon Austin.

If Clarke remains fit and Watson drops down to no.6, we're really only looking for a no.3 in the short term. Rogers may end up going on for a couple/few more years - him and Haddin are defying old father time. Good on 'em. My opinion of an ideal no.3 is the following ... Must be able to play the role of an opener Have a great ability to get off strike with plenty of singles Take the attack up to the bowlers and dictate terms Have shots all around the wicket Be one of your best players if not the best. I guess that's asking a lot but if we're going to no.1 in the world, we'll most probably need someone of this ilk. However, the no.3 doesn't necessarily need to start off in that spot. I prefer to start a new player off at 5 or 6 to help ease them into Test cricket. But again, that's not a hard and fast rule.

He's not my choice anyway. I mentioned that I thought the selectors might pick him. I won't rule a line through Hughes though. He's still young enough to improve his game. Maybe in 12-18 months? For now, it's time for the selectors to try someone new. But who knows what they're thinking? They are the Australian selectors after all - expect the unexpected! It might be academic anyway as one scribe reckons that Alex Doolan will come in and bat at no.3 if Watson is out for the Sydney Test. You look like being right re Harris as well. He's another who is now doubtful for Sydney.

2014 Pro Bowl selections are announced

Don't forget your tips, Strafford.

Yep, we're switched on. Lehmann and co have made a big difference. The truth might be that many have lifted - coaching staff and players alike. ... and when you've got that sort of attitude, everyone wants to be a part of it. Lyon steps in today with a five wicket haul. Before I forget, for those without cable, "tunein" radio often offers a radio broadcast of selected Test matches. This link ... Tunein - Cricket Radio currently offers commentary of the 2nd Test between South Africa and India (just click on the date next to the description for live coverage - might take a minute or so to kick in) I'll post the link up again when we're in South Africa in Feb/March. Maddinson and Silk both open but could bat at no.3 at a pinch. I think Burns is mainly a no.3 but has spent a bit of time at no.4. Doolan the same (?) I just read the odd match report and check the scores of selected Shield games. Back in the day, we all knew a lot more about the up and comers. There's so much sport about these days - it's therefore difficult to keep up. It's always worth at least having a scan through the scores though. Cricinfo or the CA site have all the scores and results. What I do remember is that previously, a batsman needed to bat in the top 3 or 4 for his State in order to be considered for the Test team. Even Walters started off batting 3 or 4 when he played for NSW (before he played for his Country) You may be right about Hughes but after the turnaround of a number of our players this season, you just never know. Plenty have come back after being initially written off. You've previously made mention of a much improved environment and maybe someone of Hughes stature needs that sort of thing more than some others. He has had more than his fair share of chances though

Some good points there 'dl' Watson possibly being injured for the Sydney Test might allow the selectors to revamp the batting order in preparation for the South African series. I threw up Hughes' name to bat at no.3 because I believe the selectors might give him another go. I'd much prefer one of Maddinson, Burns or Silk to be given a chance. Doolan is another possibility. Watson is better suited at no.6 and still offers a fair bit as the 5th bowler (when he's fit!) Shane is a bit of an enigma! I'm not sure any of the players I've mentioned above are going to be the next "Ricky Ponting" but having the all-rounder at no.6 at least has a better look to the order. If Watson is fit, I still believe we need to do something with the no.3 spot. Bailey might have to make way if Watson were to drop down the order (George's form is questionable) I like Bailey as a cricketer but tough decisions have to made if he can't make runs. However, it might still be another unchanged side for Sydney (especially if we win tomorrow) In some ways, this series is done in my eyes but not in terms of where we're heading. I hope we win tomorrow but I'd trade a loss here for a Test win in South Africa. One test win probably won't win us the series in South Africa but it might mean we've made some more positive strides. The 3 Tests in South Africa will be played over a total of 22 days (3 days break between the 1st and 2nd Tests and 4 days break between the 2nd and 3rd Tests) But we never like to lose to England anytime do we? Haddin's 65 in the 1st innings could ultimately prove the difference. Brad is in career best form - a grand effort for a 36 year old.

And now this Test takes another turn. Amazing sport for that sort of thing. Some sports can be very predictable but Test cricket constantly throws up these sort of twists. One wicket can change things dramatically - or that one wicket can lead to a dramatic change. You'd reckon that South Africa won't be letting us off the hook when we tour there in Feb/March. 5 or 6 down for not many against their renowned attack? Our top order has to get better - maybe Hughes will get another chance? Or Maddinson? Hughes had a terrific tour over there in 2009 (so did Johnson) If Hughes or Maddinson (or another top order batsman) come into the team, Watson should drop down to no.6 (his bowling is still invaluable) Bailey might be the one to make way (if there is a change to the team) However, if we go on and win this Test, I can see another unchanged team* Interestingly, the South Africans haven't beaten us in a home series (over there) since that infamous 4 nil loss we experienced in 1970. *Edit: Watson might be doubtful for Sydney with that groin injury. He may be bowling in the knowledge that it can't get any worse (but could still rule him out for Sydney) We just need one wicket (preferably KP's wicket! )