The Bump and Run - Week 9

• By Cameron on Friday, November 6, 2009
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Before we dive into next weeks match ups, I just want to take a moment to congratulate the New York Yankees on their 2009 World Series Championship.  They are the best team in the world (except for Japan.)  That aside, the Bombers were incensed all season and functioned as a totally different team than they have as of late.  A-Rod was a new man and Teixiera filled an infield gap as well as putting up MVP style performances day after day.  CC Sabbathia and AJ Burnett filled holes in the rotation that would have been wide open after the collapse of Wang. Most importantly, they played well together.  They had chemistry, cohesion and spirit.  That's what wins championships after all.

But enough Baseball, the NFL is about to get serious.  If you pick a week to stay in, don't let it be this one.  Onto the action!

Ravens @ Cincinnati - November 8th, 1 pm -

The Bengals still haven't made it into the playoff conversation which I don't understand.  They have only really lost once, besides the week one fluke against the Broncos.  They had a huge win over the Bears, with Cedric Benson angrily trampling his former team.  They are also coming off a bye.  All these have to combine if they want to stay hot against the Ravens.  The key will be in the passing game.  They need to stay with the deep routes using play action to keep the superb Ravens D on their feet. even though Benson has been great, he won't get as much room as he has had. 

Take a shot - When Gus Johnson verbally climaxes to a Bengals touchdown.

Where to watch - Phebes - 359 Bowery - This East Village bar sports great food as well as a high quotient Bengals following.

Dallas @ Philadelphia - November 8th, 8:20 pm -

This division showdown actually brings some life to Sunday night for the first time in a while.  I wonder how many times we are going to hear about the love that is not lost between these two.  There is plenty on the line here though.  The Giants are slipping and the Redskins are their usual selves which leaves the top of the NFC East up for grabs.  The match up depends on if glass doll Brian Westbrook can stay healthy through a game, as well as which Romo comes out the play.  If the importance of this game gets into his head, the Cowboys could have some problems.

Take a shot - Whenever they cut to Roy Williams after a Miles Austin completion, most likely shooting them the stink-eye.

Where to watch - Wogies - 39 Greenwich Ave - If the World Series made you sick, recover at this Philly standby.

Steelers @ Denver - November 9th, 8:30 pm -

ESPN, not to be outdone by NBC has a slug fest on Monday night as well.  The Steelers are back to old form losing only 2 games by a field goal.  They also downed the Vikings.  The Broncos would go the same way if they can't make some adjustments after a dismal showing last Sunday against the Ravens.  Maybe the awful brown and yellow throwbacks would conjure some more magic; they should throw them into the rotation.

Take a shot - Whenever they make the Tomlin/McDaniels young coach comparison.

Where to watch - Dempsey's - 61 2nd ave - Even though they don't have any affiliation with these teams awesome wings and a great happy hour make this a perfect spot to watch MNF.