Front 4: NFL Divisional Round

We’re down to eight! Four teams from each conference remain as they attempt to punch their ticket to Super Bowl 51 in Houston. With four matchups on this weekend’s slate, the Front 4 team will debate who they believe will walk away from each game victorious. Before we get to their predictions, let’s take a look at how they fared last week and of course the overall standings as the season nears its end.

Wild Card Round:

Daisy: 7 Daisy: 47

Carlos: 6 Ryan: 46

Ryan: 5 Carlos: 46

Kyle: 4 Kyle: 44

Texans@Patriots

Daisy: Patriots

Despite the Texans having the league’s top defense, I don’t think there’s any shot that they can go into New England and beat Tom Brady. The Pats are just better. Unfortunately they’re on their way to another Super Bowl appearance.

Carlos: Patriots

The Patriots are going to win this game rather easily because they have Tom Brady who is just stockpiling wins and championships at this point. 3500 yards and 28 touchdowns for a guy who missed four games is pretty darn impressive. The Texans defense has been good, but the Patriots have too much experience and too much power to overcome.

Ryan: Patriots

The Patriots beat the Texans 27-0 in week 3 this season with their third string quarterback. Add in Tom Brady and subtract JJ Watt and you have a game where a 15-point spread will be covered.

Kyle: Patriots

The Texans were able to figure things out for a week and pick up a playoff win against the Carr-less Raiders, but Brady and Belicheck will be in the driver’s seat this weekend as they end the Texans’ dreams rather easily.

Steelers@Chiefs

Daisy: Steelers

The Steelers head into this one with Big Ben nursing an injury, but that won’t hold this team down. When they’re clicking, they’re unstoppable. I think the Steelers steal one on the road.

Carlos: Steelers

The Chiefs were able to secure a bye in the playoffs, but their defense is ranked 24th in the league and their offense was ranked 20th so there is room for improvement. They weren’t lights out, but they have a good quarterback in Alex Smith and a good coach in Andy Reid. Good won’t be enough when it comes to Le’veon Bell. I see Bell running all over the Chiefs defense that was ranked 26th in rushing yards allowed. Antonio Brown and Big Ben are also too much for that defense to handle. There are too many weapons to stop and the Steelers are coming in hot on an 8-game winning streak.

Ryan: Steelers

I want to go Chiefs here, especially with news that Big Ben in a walking boot earlier in the week, but the Steelers just seem to get better and better each week (like the Packers). I’m not going to overthink this game and go Steelers. I can’t wait for the last second Tyreek Hill punt return, a la Desean Jackson against the Giants, to ruin this pick for me.

Kyle: Steelers

In the first match up between these two, the Steelers routed the Chiefs 43-14 thanks to an early onslaught. The Steelers got out to a 22-0 lead in the 1st quarter thanks to a KC fumble, muffed punt and interception from Alex Smith. Pittsburgh would go on to score 36 unanswered points to start the game and KC never stood a chance in what was probably their worst game of the season. The Chiefs will obviously want to use that game as motivation especially at home and I think they will come out with a better gameplan, but ultimately this game might come down to whichever team wins the turnover battle. I’ll take the Steelers to come out on top because of the 3 B’s: Ben, Bell and Brown.

Seahawks@Falcons

Daisy: Falcons

The Falcons have looked great all season and I think Matt Ryan and the squad will show why they’re in the playoffs and why they were the second best team in the NFC.

Carlos: Falcons

We all know that Seattle has a great defense, but they are dealing with injuries. To add to that, they are playing on the road. That’s too many obstacles to overcome especially against a Falcons offense that was on another level this season as they scored 33 points per game which was best in the league.

Seattle can hang in there especially if Thomas Rawls has another big game. Against the Lions he set a franchise playoff record with 161 rushing yards. Atlanta was ranked 17th in rushing yards allowed so it could come down to Seattle establishing a running game, but my money is still on Atlanta. Ironically, Matt Ryan’s only playoff win came in 2012 against the Seahawks.

Ryan: Falcons

I don’t like trusting the Falcons in the playoffs, but I think this game turns into a shootout and the Seahawks won’t be able to match the Falcons offensively. If Earl Thomas was playing, I’d probably go Seahawks, but it’s a huge loss to play without him. Matt Ryan’s only playoff win has come against the Seahawks so hopefully he can do it again this year.

Kyle: Falcons

This is a tough one to predict because it pits the Falcons’ high-powered offense against the Seahawks’ lights-out defense. If this game was in Seattle, I would’ve taken the Seahawks, but this game will be indoors allowing Matt Ryan to play in comfortable conditions which could lead to plenty of scoring even against the Seahawks defense. He threw for 335 and 3 touchdowns against the Seahawks in Seattle earlier this season so I expect even better numbers in Atlanta.

Packers@Cowboys

Daisy: Cowboys

This is the most intriguing game of the weekend because both of these teams are pretty evenly matched up and are both coming in hot. It’s going to be a close one, but the Cowboys are home and will come out victorious to prolong their great season.

Carlos: Packers

Not only are the Packers red hot, but they also have the experience. Aaron Rodgers is one of the best quarterbacks not only in the game now, but maybe all time. He has already won a Super Bowl and just looks unstoppable. The Cowboys are scary because of Dak, Zeke and the offensive line, but this team is young. They’re playing rookies at the QB and RB positions and that might hurt them. These teams are evenly matched so it should be a close game, but ultimately I see Aaron Rodgers leading the Packers to a win on their final drive.

Ryan: Packers

The Cowboys are the best team in the NFC, but the playoffs are all about who’s hot and Aaron Rodgers is on fire right now. Meanwhile, on the other side, Dallas is starting two rookies and as great as they’ve been it’s hard to pick rooks over A.A.Ron Rodgers. Also…Dez didn’t catch it.

Kyle: Cowboys

I don’t know if anyone can stop Aaron Rodgers right now. He put up 33 points against a Giants defense that was on a tear. The Cowboys defense has played well, but it’ll be extremely difficult to slow down the Packers offense. It should be interesting to see how Dak and Zeke perform in their first playoff games and the Cowboys will likely need huge days from both men if they want to move on to the Conference Championship. I could see this going either way, but I’m going to stick with dem boyz.

Highest Scoring Game?

Daisy: Seahawks/Falcons

I am really banking on both of these quarterbacks to just go back and forth with touchdowns this week. The Seahawks have a tendency to show up in the playoffs so I think they’re going to try their best to keep up with the Falcons.

Carlos: Seahawks/Falcons

Atlanta is going to come out swinging. They want to prove they belong and Matt Ryan wants that second playoff win. The Seahawks are good on defense, but they are limping in with injuries. That being said, Seattle won’t just sit and accept a loss. They’re going to go down swinging and they’ll need to establish the running game to complement Russell Wilson in order to produce points. I see this being a back and forth battle.

Ryan: Packers/Cowboys

Each team has offensive weapons that are borderline unstoppable in Elliott and Rodgers. Even if each team had an above-average defense (neither does), I would still expect those two to put up big numbers.

Kyle: Packers/Cowboys

We all know what Aaron Rodgers is capable of. We’ve also seen what the Cowboys’ stacked offense can do. This could be a back and forth game that might come down to the wire with both teams trading punches.

Will Zeke or Bell Have More Rushing Yards?

Daisy: Le’Veon Bell

I usually pick Zeke to out-run most backs, but I think Le’veon Bell has a better chance getting through the Chiefs defense than Zeke does against the Packers. Zeke will have still have a great game, but I just trust Bell more at this point.

Carlos: Bell

I’m going with Bell because the Chiefs don’t have the greatest defense against the run. They were ranked 26th in rushing yards allowed with 122 rushing yards per game. Zeke will have to run against a better run defense that is ranked 8th and only allows 95 rushing yards per game.

Ryan: Bell

Big Ben is in a walking boot, but the Steelers will probably be fine without him at 100% because of Bell. Le’Veon is on fire and is coming off a 167-yard performance in the Wild Card game. Zeke is a monster, but the Cowboys might find themselves behind with a rookie QB under center.

Kyle: Ezekiel Elliott

Both Bell and Zeke lit up their opponents in their matchups against the Chiefs and Packers earlier in the season, but I’m leaning toward Zeke since he’ll be playing in better conditions. He rushed for 157 yards in Green Bay and now he gets to face that same defense indoors in Dallas.

Who Will Have More Passing Yards Between Brady, Big Ben, Rodgers and Ryan?

Daisy: Matt Ryan

Matt Ryan has been brilliant this season and I’ll keep faith in the better Ryan.

Carlos: Tom Brady

Brady is on a mission to win another Super Bowl. The Texans were ranked 2nd against the pass this season so it won’t be easy for Brady, but he is able to just break down any defense and do as he pleases. I don’t see Houston playing with much spunk in this one which will lead to an onslaught from Brady and company.

Ryan: Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers is the best QB facing the easiest matchup of the four. I learned the hard way to never bet against Rodgers and I won’t make that mistake again.

Kyle: Matt Ryan

The Falcons have flown somewhat under the radar this season even though they finished with the 2nd seed in the NFC. If they lose to Seattle at home, it will really make people forget about their impressive offensive season. I think Matt Ryan has his best playoff game to set up a match-up with Dallas.

Which Running QB Will Have the Most Total Yards?

Dak Prescott, Russell Wilson or Alex Smith

Daisy: Russell Wilson

Out of the three QBs in this question, Russell Wilson has the most favorable matchup. I think Russell will definitely be able to throw the ball and use his feet to pick yards on the run as well.

That being said, I think Dak still plays well despite the evidence of past rookie quarterbacks in the playoffs. I think he will continue to play well especially with the team he has around him. He doesn’t seem to get flustered and Nothing makes him nervous… not even girls.

Carlos: Wilson

Wilson will need to be mobile and electric if the Seahawks have any chance to win so I am counting on Russell Wilson to make big plays including big runs that will complement the passing game. Plus, of the 3 quarterbacks, Wilson is facing the weakest defense which is the Falcons that was ranked 25th in the league.

Ryan: Wilson

Betting on Russell Wilson in the playoffs is a smart thing to do and I like to pretend I’m smart. Dak is great, but still a rookie and Alex Smith is effective, but not going to fill up the scoresheet. Wilson all day.

Kyle: Alex Smith

Andy Reid, Alex Smith and the Chiefs had an extra week to prepare for the Steelers(assuming they expected them to beat the Dolphins) and Reid has proven that he uses the extra time to the best of his ability. I think this bodes well for Smith who will rack up yards in small bunches, but I think those bunches eventually lead to a solid day for the veteran quarterback.

Will the Texans/Patriots Game Be Decided By Less than 16 Points?

Daisy: Yes

Yes, I believe the Texans can keep this from getting out of hand, but only because of their defense. I mean you guys are representing the AFC South. Please don’t make us look worse than we already are.

Carlos: No

As I said before, Tom Brady is on a mission to win. He is still mad about the suspension and it shows in the way he plays every week.

Ryan: No

Tom Brady vs. Brock Osweiler. One puts up a lot of points while the other does not.

Kyle: Yes

The only way this happens is if the Texans protect the ball. They CANNOT afford to turn the ball over and if they don’t they may be able to keep the game close because their defense is that good.

Closest Game?

Daisy: Packers/Cowboys

Both teams are coming in hot and like I said earlier, this will definitely be the most intriguing game of the weekend.

Carlos: Packers/Cowboys

This game has the ingredients to be a classic. You have a red-hot Super Bowl champ in Aaron Rodgers and you have great rookie playmakers in Zeke and Dak. It’s a tough game to predict and those kind of games usually make for close games.

Ryan: Seahawks/Falcons

The Falcons are the better team, but they aren’t great in the playoffs. The Seahawks are money in the playoffs. That’ll make for a close game that will hopefully come down to the final possession. We gotta get interesting playoff football at some point, right?

Kyle: Packers/Cowboys

With Aaron Rodgers you can expect fireworks. Fireworks usually means late game heroics so I’ll go with the Packers/Cowboys.

Tiebreaker: Which Team Will Gain the Most Total Yards?

Daisy: Cowboys

Carlos: Falcons

Ryan: Patriots

Kyle: Steelers

Do you agree with the Front 4 team’s predictions? Be sure to comment below to let us know who you think will be one step closer to the Super Bowl!

Front 4: NFL Wildcard Round

As the regular season came to a close, the members of the Front 4 team decided to make things interesting in the final week to give us a nail-biter heading into the playoffs. With just four weeks of predictions remaining, Ryan holds a one-point lead over Kyle, Daisy and Carlos who are all tied for second place.

With four games on the schedule this weekend, the Front 4 team will take a look at each match up and debate who will move one step closer to a trip to the Super Bowl. Let us know if you agree with their predictions for the NFL Wildcard Round.

Raiders@Texans

Kyle: Texans

If Derek Carr were playing this game would be one of the easier ones to predict, however, with rookie Connor Cook making his first career start that also happens to be a playoff game on the road, it’s a little tougher. The Raiders are still the better team, but Houston did win their division(miraculously) and I think this game could come down head-coaching decisions.

Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio is entering the playoffs for just the 3rd time in his 11 seasons as a head coach and only has one win which came back in 2007 with the Jaguars. The Raiders have been known to take chances under Del Rio and I think that backfires this week under Cook as the Raiders’ once promising season comes to a crushing halt thanks to a late stop by the Texans as Brock Osweiler walks away with his first playoff victory putting him ahead of Andy Dalton.

Daisy: Raiders

Let’s go Raiders! Despite losing their MVP-caliber quarterback and then losing their 2nd string quarterback, the Raiders are a solid squad. I think the Texans defense will definitely be a challenge for Connor Cook, but I believe the Raiders will score enough points to get the job done.

Carlos: Texans

Regardless of the result of this game, the Raiders should be proud of their season. Going from 7 to 12 wins and making the playoffs for the first time since 2002 is a huge accomplishment. If Carr was healthy, the Raiders could have been a serious threat to reach the Super Bowl. Teams have only been able to score 20 points per game against the Texans and without a QB like Carr, points will be tough to come by for the Raiders. The Texans aren’t the best team, but they were able to win enough games to get to the playoffs so don’t take them for granted.

Ryan: Texans

This is easily the toughest game to pick this weekend. How do you pick between a QB who was cheered by the crowd he’ll be playing in front of when he was benched or a QB who has never played in an NFL game and will be starting on the road? Both teams have strong defenses but my god how do you choose between these offenses? If Carr starts this game, you could put down a game-winning drive for the Raiders in stone. Osweiler will have a bad game, but Cook might have a worse one. Poor guy.

Dolphins@Steelers

Kyle: Steelers

Big Ben is 11-6 in the playoffs while Matt Moore has never thrown a pass in the postseason. Jay Ajayi and Jarvis Landry have never touched the ball in the postseason and Adam Gase is in his first year of coaching with Miami. I’ll take the experience from Big Ben, Bell, AB, and Mike Tomlin at home in this one.

Daisy: Steelers

The Steelers are a more complete team. In order for the Dolphins to win, they’ll need to stop Pittsburgh’s explosive offense and hope for another stellar game from Jay Ajayi. I don’t see all of that happening.

Carlos: Steelers

Miami has one of the worst defenses against the pass so I expect the experienced Big Ben to capitalize. The Dolphins are in the same boat as the Raiders in that they should be proud of making the playoffs, but losing their starting QB late in the season is going to make it tough for them to go much further.

The Steelers have the experience and they look like a team that is able to make a deep run. Big Ben, Le’Veon Bell, and Antonio Brown make this team scary and they should not be taken lightly.

Ryan: Steelers

Okay, this might be the toughest game to pick. The Steelers defense is bad and Matt Moore is probably better than Ryan Fitzpatrick so just because he’s a backup doesn’t mean he’s automatically trash (though being better than Fitz isn’t a huge compliment). Jay Ajayi has already rushed for 204 yards against this team earlier in the year. Also, may I remind you that Big Ben lost a playoff game to Tim Tebow. But while I would bet on the Dolphins covering the 10-point spread, despite all the evidence, I just can’t bring myself to take them straight up.

Giants@Packers

Kyle: Packers

This one is sure to come down to a late possession. It could mean the Giants defense will have to stop Aaron Rodgers one last time late in the 4th quarter, but we’ve seen time and time again that Rodgers doesn’t need much time on the clock to make something happen. There’s plenty of questions heading into the playoffs, but two things everyone can agree with is the Giants can play defense and Rodgers can play quarterback; both at a very high level. I look forward to seeing if the Giants’ stellar defense can stop this hot Packers offense. By a hair, I’ll take the Packers to win thanks to a late kick from the foot of Mason Crosby.

Daisy: Packers

Despite the Giants’ defense being great lately, Aaron Rodgers has been better. It will be an exciting game and the one I’m most looking forward to.

Carlos: Giants

I’m using past playoff runs for this one. In both of their recent Super Bowl runs, the Giants beat the Packers. The Giants offense has not been great, but they have one of the best playoff quarterbacks in Eli Manning. They also have this OBJ guy that surely wants to prove he’s the best weapon in the NFL. The Giants defense looks to be Super Bowl worthy and what better test than the red hot Aaron Rodgers. Ultimately, I think we get an ELIte performance from Manning and the Giants’ defense.

Ryan: Giants

Okay, all these games are hard to pick. Wow, get ready for some good football this weekend. In this match up, we have the New York “does it feel like 2007 in here or is it just me?” Giants against the Green Bay “Aaron Rodgers at home” Packers. The Pack are on a six-game roll, but haven’t faced a team like the Giants in that span. This game will be as cold as your ex’s heart and I’ll always lean defense in those games. But what do I know.

Lions@Seahawks

russell_wilson_vs_vikings_november_4_2012 — via wikimedia

Kyle: Seahawks

Both of these clubs limped into the playoffs, but this still could turn into one of the more exciting games of the weekend because of the two stand-out QB’s. That being said, I think the Seahawks will win because the Lions have not proved they can beat a playoff team this season. They’re 0-5 against this year’s playoff squads(Packers x2, Texans, Cowboys, Giants). That doesn’t give me much confidence they’ll be able to pull of any kind of upset.

Daisy: Seahawks

I am not feeling an upset in this game. The last time the Seahawks lost a Wild Card game at home was in 2004 against the Rams. Seahawks should get the win.

Carlos: Seahawks

The Seahawks will win this game behind a great game from Russell Wilson. The Seahawks have dealt with plenty of injuries this season, but their defense is still one of the scarier groups in the league. The Lions are evenly matched with the Seahawks so the deciding factors could be that the game is being played in Seattle and the Seahawks have plenty of playoff experience.

Ryan: Seahawks

Matthew Stafford has not been the same since injuring his finger and now he has to take on the Seahawks in Seattle. The Seahawks have a lot of issues themselves, but not enough to make up for the Lions’ struggles.

Which AFC QB Not Named Big Ben Will Throw for the Most Yards?

Kyle: Brock

Brock Osweiler has to know what he’ll be facing if he loses at home against a rookie quarterback, right? He can almost wipe away his awful first season with a solid performance to carry his team into the second round. He obviously hasn’t lived up to his huge contract, but he gets a chance to get a playoff win under his belt and give the organization and the fans some hope.

The Raiders defense isn’t good and was overlooked because Carr and co were pulling out comeback wins and helping people look past their flaws. Without Carr, the Texans should be able to put some points on the board and grab a comfortable lead. C’mon BrockStar.

Daisy: Matt Moore

This one is tough because many of these teams aren’t going with their number 1 QB. I am going to say Matt Moore will throw for the most yards, but unfortunately for Miami fans, that’s all he’ll be winning.

Carlos: Brock

Brock Osweiler is going against a defense that is ranked 24th in the NFL against the pass. He hasn’t had a great season, but he should be able to get some yards. Conner Cook is facing a great defense against the pass that is ranked 2nd in the NFL. Matt Moore gets the average Steelers’ defense that has been much better of late so I’ll take Brock.

Ryan: Matt Moore

Matt Moore is a semi-competent NFL quarterback. The other two are not. Also, the Steelers have a bad defense and could be in for a shootout.

Will Jay Ajayi or Le’Veon Bell Rush for More Yards?

Kyle: Ajayi

If the Dolphins are going to have any chance against Pittsburgh, they’re going to need a huge game from Jay Ajayi. Not just a 100-yard game, but probably a performance like the ones he put up against the Bills. He’ll be the focal point of the offense with Tannehill out so I’ll take Ajayi in this one.

Daisy: Bell

Bell is arguably the best back in the league. I’ll trust him when it matters most.

Carlos: Bell

Jay Ajayi and Le’veon Bell both had around 1200 yards this season so this could go either way, but I think Bell will rush for more yards because Miami has one of the worst defenses against the run in the league. They allowed about 140 rushing yards per game which is ranked 30th in the league so I expect a big game from Bell.

Ryan: Ajayi

I’m all in on the Dolphins this week I guess (aside from, you know, picking them to win). Ajayi ripped off over 200 yards against the Steelers earlier this year and the Dolphins will do everything they can to help him replicate that again.

Which NFC Game Will Be Decided By Fewer Points?

Kyle: Giants/Packers

The Giants/Packers game is the best match-up of the weekend and it should be the closest game as well.

Daisy: Giants/Packers

The Packers’ offense and the Giants’ defense make this such an intriguing battle that should result in a close game.

Carlos: Giants/Packers

The Giants have a great defense as they’ve only allowed 17 points per game which is ranked 2nd in the league. Even though their offense has not been elite, it does match up well against an iffy Packers secondary. It will be interesting to see what gives in this one, but all of this should lead to an exciting chess match between both teams.

Ryan: Giants/Packers

This game will be a 17-16 thriller or something along those lines. I don’t expect the Lions to keep up with the Seahawks in Seattle and it will be the exact opposite in Green Bay.

Which NFC QB Will Throw for the Most Yards?

Kyle: Eli

I’m going with Eli because this man shows up in the playoffs. Another reason is only the Saints were worse than the Packers defense when it came to passing yards per game. If the Giants want to win, Eli will have to take advantage of the Packers’ flaws.

Daisy: Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers has been on a role these past few weeks and the experienced Green Bay quarterback will continue to do that this Sunday.

Carlos: Wilson

Russell Wilson was ranked 10th in yards thrown this year with about 4200 yards. He isn’t lights out with his arm, but he can get it done. The obvious choice is Aaron Rodgers, but he is facing a pretty good defense in the Giants as is Matthew Stafford who is facing the tough defense in the Seahawks. Eli Manning has thrown for the least amount of yards this season out of the bunch so I’m going with Wilson.

Ryan: Wilson

With Eli and Rodgers stuck in the snow, expect Wilson to outduel a hobbled Stafford to take the passing crown this week.

Who Will Have the Most Receiving Yards? Odell, Jordy or AB

Kyle: Odell

I’m taking Odell for the same reasons I took Eli. These two will connect early and often and I expect OBJ to catch and run all over Green Bay.

Daisy: Odell

Odell will definitely be targeted a ton throughout this game and I expect him to rack up plenty of yards in the process.

Carlos: Antonio Brown

Brown will be able to put up good numbers in the game because his quarterback is Big Ben who averaged 273 yards per game. Odell will be close as well because Green Bay’s secondary isn’t great, but I see Brown pulling it out.

Ryan: OBJ

Never bet against Odell.

Will Russell Wilson or Matthew Stafford Have More Total Yards?

Kyle: Stafford

Russel Wilson is one of the most dynamic players in the NFL, but he hasn’t been able to showcase that much this season because of his offensive line and the injuries he’s endured. The Seahawks line has been terrible and maybe its because their front office hasn’t put much effort into the position. Of their available cap, the team only spends 4.18% of its money on their line which is dead last in the league. The Giants are second to last, but spend double what Seattle does. Even though he’s going against Seattle’s defense, Stafford should have more time to make things happen.

Daisy: Wilson

Normally, I would go with Matt Stafford on this, but since the Seahawks are playing at home – I have to give the advantage to Russell Wilson here.

Carlos: Wilson

The Lions defense was ranked 18th in yards per game with about 354. Stafford did throw for about 4300 yards and 24 touchdowns, but even though the Seahawks defense is hurt they can still hold Detroit’s offense which was ranked 21st in total yards. This will come down to Wilson’s experience and the home crowd that will be in his favor.

Ryan: Wilson

Doubling down on Wilson as you can’t go wrong with Russ at home against a defense that has been struggling. And again, Stafford has a finger injury that clearly has had an effect on his game.

Tiebreaker: Which Receiver Will Have the Most Receptions?

Kyle: Jarvis Landry

Daisy: Jordy Nelson

Carlos: Antonio Brown

Ryan: Doug Baldwin

Do you agree with the Front 4 team’s predictions? Let us know in the comments and be sure to follow all the action all weekend!

24 Things That Must Happen in The NBA This Season

By Kyle Boris

It’s almost unbelievable that another NBA season is already upon us. The NBA offseason was full of trades, exciting free agency acquisitions and Olympic basketball that filled our hearts until the 2016-2017 season was ready to begin.

With the regular season ready to get going, I tried to envision what I was most looking forward to seeing in 2016-2017. Could it be the first meeting between new enemies Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook? Maybe it was getting to see Dwyane Wade in the red and white Bulls uniform. Perhaps, it could be finally getting to see Joel Embiid take the court.

Everyone will get to see those three things happen this season, barring any injuries(please don’t get hurt again Embiid), so I’ve decided to take a look at 24 things that might not happen, but MUST happen for me to enjoy the NBA this season.

1.) Russell Westbrook 1-v-1 against Kevin Durant

Let’s get this out of the way early. When the Warriors and Thunder face off for the first time, all eyes are going to be on former teammates, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. They won’t be guarding each most of the time, but I’m hoping because of a switch or defensive breakdown we get to see the ball in Westbrook’s hands with Durant guarding him. You know Westbrook will be itching to drive past him and slam down his signature and emphatic two-hand dunk in front of the Oklahoma City crowd.

2.) Harrison Barnes Makes a Statement in Golden State

Lost in all Kevin Durant saga was the fact that the Warriors let Harrison Barnes walk in order to sign the former Thunder forward. Barnes went on to sign a max contract with the Dallas Mavericks and will get his first taste at being the main piece without those guys named Curry, Thompson and Green. Barnes has flown under the radar and people aren’t sure if he was just the product of a great team or if he could carry a team on his own. I’m not sure how his tenure in Dallas will pan out, but it would be great to see him make his first statement as a member of the Mavs with a breakout game in Golden State in the Mavs’ eighth game of the year.

3.) Joel Embiid Tweets During Halftime

Yes, it will be great to finally see Embiid step on a basketball court, but while he was out injured he provided some gold via Twitter. We can only hope his personality and love for the game(as well as his love for Twitter) lead to an improptu Twitter exchange at halftime of a Sixers’ game.

screen-shot-2016-10-24-at-2-34-39-pm — Embiid sent out this gem while watching a recent debate

4.) Timberwolves Make the Playoffs

The Timberwolves haven’t had a winning season since 2004 when Kevin Garnett was still on the team(his first stint, of course). The team really hasn’t been relevant since then, but finally with some smart drafting, timely trades and a new head coach, the Wolves might be in line for a winning season and hopefully a playoff push. Another full year of Karl Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins along with Zach LaVine, Ricky Rubio, Kris Dunn and Gorgui Deng make Minnesota look like a threat once again.

5.) Ray Allen Returns

Ray Allen hasn’t officially retired, but its been a couple years since he last played for the Heat in 2014. That being said, Allen has continuously stated that he’s still in shape and could just be waiting for the right opportunity. Well, Mr. Allen, now is the time to do it. The Warriors are looking like steady favorites to win the NBA Title, but a return to Cleveland could be just the piece the Cavs and Lebron need to compete with Golden State.

6.) Giannis Becomes a Star

Giannis Antetokounmpo. You know the name. You don’t know how to say it. Even if you do know how to say it, think about how awesome it will be to hear sports anchors over the country attempt to say his name when he becomes a bonafide star. The 21-year old will see action as the point guard for the Bucks and should see huge improvements in his stats leading to the Greek Freak’s rise to fame. We can all laugh as his name is butchered again and again.

7.) The Knicks Make Madison Square Garden Relevant Again

The New York Knicks have missed out on the playoffs the last three seasons. Yes, Madison Square Garden has been electrifying at times during that stretch like when Carmelo goes off or Porzingas piles up huge rejections, but the Garden hasn’t had that buzz around it that comes with a perennial playoff team. If the Knicks are able to get off to a hot start and show their fans that things are different this year then we might get to see MSG rocking like it should.

8.) Linsanity Takes Over the Garden

That being said, how fitting it would be for Jeremy Lin to bring the Garden to its feet once more, but this time as a member of the rival Nets. It can argued that the last time there was that signature buzz in the Garden was when Jeremy Lin ran the town. Even if he’s a member of the Nets now, the crowd in NYC will be split and a stellar performance will get all on their feet no matter which jersey he has on.

9.) Lavine/Gordon II

Do we need anyone else in this year’s Slam Dunk Contest? I think everyone can agree that a three round battle between Zach LaVine and Aaron Gordon would do justice. The two put on a show last February and even though LaVine was crowned the champion, the trophy could have went to either man. Let’s just hope they spent this summer coming up with some new tricks.

10.) Chris Bosh Plays Before March 1st

The Miami Heat and Chris Bosh have gotten themselves into a sticky situation. Bosh failed a physical in the offseason and it doesn’t look like he’ll suit up for the Heat again. Bosh could try and find work elsewhere, but if the Heat release him after March 1st, he won’t be able to play in the playoffs if he were to make it with his new team. Obviously, Bosh’s health is most important, but I’d love to see him get another chance with a new team before he hangs up his jersey.

11.) Warriors Win By 70 Points

Running up the score is never nice, but when you have two former league MVP’s, a former three-point champion and a triple-double machine it’s bound to happen. The Warriors will be in plenty of games that are over by halftime. I’m not saying they should run the score up EVERY game, but give them one crack at the NBA record set by the Cavs in 1991 when they beat the Heat by 68 points.

12.) Wade & Rondo Hit a 3 in the Same Game

It’s no secret that Wade and Rondo aren’t threats from the outside. Wade hit seven three pointers last season during the regular season. Rondo hit 62 which was way more than he hit in his previous high which came in 2013 when he made 26 three pointers. Last year he took 170 threes which helped his numbers rise. I can’t imagine Rondo and Wade will become the new Splash Bro’s, but seeing the pair hit back-to-back 3’s would be special.

13.) D’Angelo Russell Has Ice in His Veins…Again

Everyone seems to be boarding the D’Angelo Russell hype train heading into this season. That’s all fine and dandy, but I just want to see another clutch shot from the man so we can see the Ice in My Veins celebration one more time.

14.) Ben Simmons Plays

Injuries ruin everything. Now, when the 76ers are terrible again they’ll have another excuse. Joel Embiid keeps telling us to trust the process and I want to, but I’m getting impatient. Even if the process wasn’t going to work this season, getting to see Ben Simmons do his thing would have been worth it for one more year. Simmons will be on the shelf for the beginning of the season, but hopefully the Aussie can return in time to give us hope that the process should be trusted.

15.) Damian Lillard is a First Ballot All Star

25.1 points, 6.8 assists, and 4 rebounds per game. Sounds like some pretty solid numbers, huh? That was Damian Lillard’s stat line last season, yet they weren’t good enough to earn him a spot on the all star team until an injury made room for him. Two years ago, when putting up similar numbers, Lillard was overlooked once again and left off completely. You can say that he gets overlooked while playing in Portland, but it’s about time fans and his peers begin to take notice and get Lillard a spot that he deserves.

16.) Kevin Love Bounces Back

Kevin Love’s first two seasons in Cleveland have seen considerable drops in points and rebounds. A bounce-back season from the former all star, along with a Ray Allen resurgence, could be just what the Cavs need to have a fighting chance against the Warriors.

17.) The Schroder/Howard Connection Works

The Hawks have been one of the more consistent teams in the Eastern conference over the last few seasons, but the organization decided to change things up this season by losing Al Horford and Jeff Teague while signing Dwight Howard and moving Dennis Schroder into a starting role. There’s some that question whether these moves will work in the Hawks’ favor, but Howard is still ONLY 30-years old. It seems as though he’s been in the year forever, but maybe, just maybe, he’ll be able to find something special with the new Hawks point guard. Howard definitely has the character to bring some life to ATL and Schroder’s playmaking skills might be the perfect match for Superman.

18.) The Spurs Contend for the Top Seed

Remember the Spurs? How could you forget? They literally never go away even when they do go away. Yeah, Tim Duncan left, but they quietly replace him with LaMarcus Aldridge and Pau Gasol. Oh yeah, there’s that Kawhi Leonard guy too. That ain’t a bad big 3 at all. If the NBA wants competition coming down the stretch then we need the Spurs to make a run at the top seed in the West. If not, the Warriors could run away with the West early and keep fans uninterested come playoff time.

19.) Celtics Move Up the Eastern Conference

The Celtics have been creeping up the ranks of the Eastern Conference under head coach Brad Stevens. They finished 7th and 5th the last two years and now are considered a dark horse to contend with the Cavs this year. The Raptors are in the top 3 in the conference seemingly every year, but crumble come playoff time. A young and exciting Celtics team should be able to pass the Raptors in the standings and compete for home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.

20.) James Harden Wins His First Scoring Title

Harden has seen his points per game increase almost every year since he’s been in the league, however, he has yet to win a scoring title. Well, that could all change this year under new head coach Mike D’antoni who is known for his high-powered offenses. Harden is also going to see time at point guard which should only add to his number of free throws and scoring opportunities. His former Thunder teammates Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook have already won scoring titles so it could be Harden’s chance to shine.

21.) The Kings Figure Out…something

The Kings have been stuck in NBA purgatory for a while now. They’ve had some good pieces over the years, but a messy front office and a messy locker room has been the downfall to any potential success for this franchise. They have a bonafide star in DeMarcus Cousins, but seem to be wasting his prime years. The Kings haven’t been to the playoffs since 2006 and have only won 30 or more games once in Cousins’s six seasons. Let’s hope they finally figure out something.

22.) We Have Another Great “BANG!” Moment

Any time Mike Breen is behind the announcer’s desk you might be blessed to hear his awesome “Bang!” call. We can only hope we get one like last year’s gem at Oracle Arena.

23.) Porzingis vs. Blake

Due to injuries last season, we never got to see Blake Griffin and Kristaps Porzingis go head-to-head. This match up better go down this season so we can see Blake test Porzinis in the paint. Griffin has a tendency to dunk all over defenders, but Porzingis has been prone to host a block party every now and then. If the two meet at the rim at Madison Square Garden or the Staples Center, the crowd will jump to their feet no matter the result.

24.) Lebron James Takes Down the Warriors

The most exciting storyline may be Westbrook vs. Durant, but the most important storyline will be whether or not Lebron James can do the unthinkable and take down the Warriors in the NBA Finals. James strengthened his legacy with an incredible comeback in last year’s Finals, but this season he faces the huge task of not only beating Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, but also Kevin Durant. Lebron will be entering this season as the good guy and the fan favorite for the first time in a long time and fans will surely be rooting for him to take down one of the best teams ever on paper. We’re not sure if he can do it, but we will all be tuning in to see him try.

Did I miss anything? What are you most looking forward to this season? Let us know in the comments and be sure to be on the lookout for more great NBA content on YourSitch.com

Kyle Boris is a contributing editor for YourSitch.com

Twitter: @KyleNoStyle

YourSitch Staff Predictions: BACKLASH 2016

As the first pay-per-view since the brand split, Backlash is focused around the blue brand’s current championships, as well as the new titles that are on the line. Dean Ambrose and The Miz will look to continue their reigns as WWE World Champion and Intercontinental Champion, while many other superstars compete for the brand new Smackdown Women’s Championship and Smackdown Tag Team Championships.

Currently, only six matches are announced for the card taking place at the Coliseum in Richmond, Virginia. Will Heath Slater finally get a Smackdown Live contract? Who will be crowned the first Smackdown Women’s Champion? Will Dean Ambrose be able to stop the Phenomenal one? Let’s take a look at each match-up as Kyle Boris and Daisy Rivers of YourSitch.com make their predictions for the return of Backlash.

Match #1: 2nd Chance Match: The Usos vs. The Hype Bros

Kyle Boris: After The Usos attacked American Alpha, Chad Gable strained his MCL and forced the team out of action which set up this match between two teams that were already eliminated. The Hype Bros apparently don’t get hyped, they stay hyped, but that won’t be enough as the new heels, Jimmy and Jey Uso, will find a way to cheat themselves into the finals.

Match Prediction: The Usos by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: The Usos pull Ryder or Mojo’s tights to secure the win.

Daisy Rivers: The Hype Bros really live up to the hype. I enjoy watching them in the ring, however, that won’t be enough to beat The Usos.

Match Prediction: The Usos by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: The Usos cheat their way to get through this match.

Match #2: Smackdown Women’s Championship 6-Pack Challenge: Becky Lynch vs. Natalya vs. Naomi vs. Nikki Bella vs. Carmella vs. Alexa Bliss

KB: This match really only contains three legitimate contenders to become the first ever Smackdown Women’s Champion. Alexa Bliss and Carmella are still developing and Naomi hasn’t been in the spotlight just yet. That leaves Becky, Natalya and Nikki. While the other three members of the Four Horsewoman are competing on Raw, Becky Lynch has almost become the forgotten one of the bunch. Becky can change that by becoming the first Women’s Champion on Smackdown.

Match Prediction: Becky Lynch by submission

Bonus Prediction: Becky forces Natalya to tap out.

DR: The clear favorite for this is Nikki Bella because she’s been champion before and she’s great. BUT, while she was gone, Becky Lynch has held her ground and worked her way to the top of the women’s division. I think this is finally her chance to become Women’s Champion.

Match Prediction: Becky Lynch by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Carmella grabs the belt and tries to use it as a weapon, but it backfires and it costs her.

Match #3: WWE Intercontinental Title Match: The Miz(c) vs. Dolph Ziggler

KB: The Miz has so much momentum right now and I believe a victory over Dolph Ziggler could do a lot for his championship reign. Ziggler was just in the WWE Title picture against Ambrose so a win for The Miz would even further solidify his role as the company’s top heel and one of the company’s top champions.

Match Prediction: Miz by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Instead of always “wrestling like a coward”, The Miz does something dangerous such as putting Ziggler through the announce table.

DR: The Miz is awesome and we all know it. My respect for him has changed since the Talking Smack promo where he tells Daniel Bryan off. To be honest, I didn’t take him serious before this. The only thing I’m worried about for this match is that The Miz could lose, but only because he has greater things in sight coming for him… *cough cough* the WWE World Championship?

Match Prediction: The Miz by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Maryse distracts the referee and The Miz gets Ziggler with a low blow.

Match #4: Smackdown Tag Team Championship Match: Heath Slater & Rhyno vs. The Usos/The Hype Bros

KB: In my prediction, The Usos will take on Slater and Rhyno. Slater and Rhyno are one of the best things going for Smackdown Live at the moment and their victory at Backlash could get one of the biggest pops of the night as the crowd will be delighted to see Slater receive a contract. I am worried, however, that the Usos could pull off the win and garner TONS of heat for preventing the fairy tale ending.

Match Prediction: Slater and Rhyno prevail by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Rhyno has picked up the pinfall in each of the first two victories. This time Slater gets the pinfall.

DR: Heath Slater will continue to be a free agent only because it makes for a great storyline. Slater and Rhyno will definitely hold their ground especially since The Usos will probably be tired from their first match, but The Usos will come away as the first SmackDown Tag Team Champions.

Match Prediction: The Usos by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: I want an American Alpha interference and the rivalry between these two teams really picks up at Backlash.

Match #5: Bray Wyatt vs. Randy Orton

KB: This has potential to be the match of the night. A very intriguing feud, the two have only had a couple weeks to promote this match and no matter how the match ends at Backlash, let’s hope the two continue their feud for the upcoming weeks.

Match Prediction: Randy Orton by DQ

Bonus Prediction: Outside interference plays a part in the finish of the match.

DR: The Viper needs a bounce-back fight and this is it. Bray Wyatt is fantastic and losing this match won’t affect that. He’s slowly but surely creeping his way into more important matches.

Match Prediction: Randy Orton by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Throughout the match, Bray Wyatt will disappear and reappear in different places to throw off Orton and add to his creepiness.

Match #6: WWE World Championship Match: Dean Ambrose(c) vs. AJ Styles

KB: Styles may be Ambrose’s toughest challenger, yet. The two have only fought once before and it’ll be interesting to see if Styles can raise Ambrose’s game like he does with most of his opponents. Styles’s win over John Cena leapfrogged him into the title picture, but I don’t think he gets it done just yet.

Match Prediction: Ambrose by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Styles kicks out of Dirty Deeds at least once.

DR: The Phenomenal One has been around for years and it’s obvious when you watch him in the ring. He makes anyone look good in the ring even when he is kicking their ass. AJ Styles is the new face that runs the place on SmackDown and he deserves to be holding the belt.

Match Prediction: AJ Styles by pinfall

Bonus Prediction: Ambrose pulls out a chainsaw

Do you agree with our picks? Let us know in the comments and be sure to check out WWE Backlash Sunday, September 11, on the WWE Network.

Kyle Boris and Daisy Rivadeneira are contributing editors for YourSitch.com

Twitter: @KyleNoStyle & @day_zeeee