Previewing the American League Playoffs

In the American League, the playoff teams seem fairly set. The Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians and Houston Astros are the division leaders, with the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees appearing to be the wild card teams.

All five teams are formidable and would be a challenging team to play in the playoffs. While it is difficult to predict the outcomes of game and of series', we can analyze and compare the different teams.

Boston has the highest team batting average at .269. They have also scored 705 runs, which is the most in the American League. Cleveland has the second highest batting average at .258. The Indians' 648 runs is the third highest total in the American League. Houston's .256 batting average is the third highest average in the league. Their 642 runs are the fourth most in the American League. Oakland's .251 batting average is the 7th highest in the American League, and their 620 runs scored is the 6th most in the league. The Yankees' .254 batting average is the 6th best in the American League, while their 674 runs scored is the second most in the league.

All five teams as expected are among the best hitting teams in the American League. All five teams can score runs and put pressure on opposing pitchers.

Houston has the best team ERA at 3.13. Hitters are hitting a league low of .218 against the Astros' pitchers. Boston has a team ERA of 3.54, which is the second best in the league. Batters are hitting .233 against Red Sox hurlers, which is the fourth lowest batting average against in the league. The Yankees have a team ERA of 3.69, which is the fourth lowest in the American League, while hitters are hitting .232 against them, which is the third lowest batting average against in the league. Cleveland's ERA is 3.85, which is the 6th lowest in the American League. Batters are hitting .244 against Indian pitching, which is the 6th lowest batting average against in the league. Finally, Oakland's team ERA is 3.73, which is the fifth lowest in the league. Batters are hitting .238 against the A's pitchers, which is the 5th lowest batting average against in the league.

So, all five teams have good pitching as well. All five teams are capable of holding their own in a pitcher's duel.

Houston is 16-11 against the other four teams, including 10-4 against Oakland. New York is 17-13 against the other teams, with a 5-8 record against Boston. Cleveland is only 8-15 against the other four teams. Finally, Oakland is 14-19 against the other teams. Boston is 14-13 against the other teams. So, Houston has the best winning percentage of the 5 teams in games among each other, with New York having the second best winning percentage. Based on this, Houston would be seen as the favorite to repeat as American League champions and possibly as World Series champions.

Of course, in a playoff series anything can happen. Past success does not guarantee future achievement. However, Houston and New York have been the best two teams when these 5 teams have played against each other.



Boston has been on a historic pace. At one point, the Red Sox were on pace to win 120 games. Based on their historic pace, many see them, and not the Astros, as the favorites to win the American League.

The Red Sox are lead by two MVP candidates. Mookie Betts and J.D. Martinez are having arguably the best years of their careers during the same season. Timing is everything, and when two players are having career years during the same season this can be an immense help for a team. The Red Sox are benefiting from two players who are hitting their stride simultaneously.

Martinez is hitting a robust .337 with 37 home runs and 110 runs batted in. Betts is hitting .335 with 27 home runs and 64 runs batted in. Andrew Benintendi, Xander Bogaert, Eduardo Nunez and Rafael Devers are all having solid seasons.

Betts, Benitendi and Jackie Bradley jr. have provided some speed on the base paths. Between the three of them, they have 58 stolen bases. The Red Sox have a good combination of power and speed in their lineup.

Chris Sale has a 1.97 ERA, the best among Boston's starting pitchers. He also leads the team with 219 strikeouts. Sale is a proven ace who can help a team go deep into the playoffs. Unfortunately, this season Sale experienced inflammation in his left shoulder which could impact him the rest of the season. He had two stints on the disabled list during the month of August. The Red Sox will be patient with him and save him for the playoffs.

Rick Porcello is 15-7 with 164 strikeouts. Porcello is a good number two or three pitcher for Boston. His ERA is 4.18, which is not great, but decent. However, he has not pitched as well during the month of August. The Red Sox are hoping that both Sale and Porcello can get back on track for the playoffs.

David Price is 14-6 with an ERA of 3.50. He has pitched well for Boston this year. Since the All Star break, he has been one of the best pitchers in baseball. If Sale, Porcello and Price are all pitching well for Boston once the playoffs start, Boston will be a tough team to beat.

Eduardo Rodriguez has been injured, and is looking to resume his season in early September. Rodriguez is 11-3, with an ERA of 3.44.

Craig Kimbrel has been a good closer. He has 37 saves this season. Matt Barnes, Joe Kelly and Heath Hembree have all been solid out of the bullpen. The Red Sox bullpen has pitched well and helped the Sox to close out games this season.



The Houston Astros are the defending world series champions. They have a chance to win again this year. They are formidable and have been consistent this year.

Jose Altuve has been the team's best player. Altuve is hitting .332 with 10 home runs and 50 runs batted in. He also has 15 stolen bases. He has been the best all around player for the Astros for a few years.

Alex Bregman is hitting .289 with 25 home runs and 83 runs batted in. Bregman leads the team in home runs and runs batted in. Additionally, Bregman has 10 stolen bases. He should score 100 runs this season.

George Springer is hitting .249 with 19 home runs and 60 runs batted in. Springer struggled with a quadriceps injury earlier. The Astros are hoping he will be completely healthy by the time the playoffs begin.

Carlos Correa has struggled with injuries this year. Correa is hitting .252 with 14 home runs and 58 runs batted in. This year, Correa has only stolen two bases. However, in 2015 he swiped 14 bases and he stole 13 bases in 2016. So, he is capable of providing the Astros with some speed on the base paths. Correa is a talented player who can help Houston get back to the World Series.

Justin Verlander anchors the pitching staff. Verlander is 13-8 this season with a 2.72 ERA. He has struck out 229 batters. Verlander has been reliable this year, as he has started 28 games. 21 of those outings have been quality starts.

Gerrit Cole is 12-5 with and ERA of 2.85. Cole has started 27 games, with 17 of them being quality starts. He leads all Astros pitchers with 234 strikeouts. Cole gives up few home runs and has been a good pitcher for Houston this season.

Dallas Keuchel is 10-10 this season with a 3.54 ERA. Keuchel has started 27 games, and he has had 17 quality starts. Keuchel has been good this season, but not quite as good as previous seasons. He has been a durable number three pitcher this year for the defending champions.

Charlie Morton is 13-3 this season with a 3.05 ERA. Morton is having one of his best seasons. His ERA this season is more than one run lower than his career ERA. Addionally, Morton has struck out 182 batters. Morton has been the third best picher for Houston this season. He has provided depth to their staff, and he should help them as they try and defend their championship.

Hector Rondon leads the team with 14 saves. However, the newly acquired Robert Osuna is now the team's closer. Ken Giles, the team's closer to begin the season, has been traded to Toronto. Additionally, Joe Smith, Brad Peacock, Collin McHugh and Tony Sipp have all pitched well out of the bullpen for the Astros.

The Astros have the talent to repeat as world series champions. If they play like they are capable of playing, they could win the World Series again. The competition will be difficult, but Houston has the hitting and the pitching to defend their title.



The Cleveland Indians are poised to win the American League Central. They have been the best team in the division by a wide margin. The Indians are a talented team who could reach the World Series.

Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez have been American League MVP candidates for the Indians this season. Lindor leads the team with 151 hits. Lindor is batting .286 with 29 home runs and 78 runs batted in. He has already scored 106 runs. Ramirez leads the team with 37 home runs. He also leads the team with 91 runs batted in. Both have contributed a lot to the Indians' offense this season.

After two injury plagued seasons, Michael Brantley has a bounce back season. Brantley is leading the team with a .301 batting average. Additionally, Brantley has 14 home runs with 69 runs batted in.

Yonder Alonso and Edwin Encarnacion have provided some power for Cleveland this season. Alonso as 22 home runs with 74 runs batted in. He has added depth to the lineup. Encarnacion has had 28 home runs with 87 runs batted in. Both Alonso and Encarnacion have been run producers for the Indians this year.

Corey Kluber has had another good season for Cleveland. Kluber is 16-7 with a 2.91 ERA. Kluber has struck out 172 batters this season. He has been a consistent pitcher for Cleveland.

Despite Kluber's consistency, Trevor Bauer has been Cleveland's best starting pitcher. Bauer leads the team with a 2.22 ERA. He also leads the team with 214 strike outs. Kluber and Bauer provide Cleveland with two strong pitchers to begin a playoff series with. Both are capable of winning playoff games, which could give the Indians the early advantage in a playoff series.

Mike Clevinger and Carlos Carrasco have also had good seasons for Cleveland. Clevinger is 9-7 with a 3.30 ERA, while Carrasco is 15-7 with a 3.55 ERA. Clevinger has had 16 quality starts and Carrasco has had 15 quality starts. Both give the Indians options for game 3 or game 4 of a playoff series.

Andrew Miller has missed much of this season with an injury, which has hurt the Cleveland bull pen. The Indians are hoping he will be back for the playoffs. Cody Allen leads the team with 25 saves, however, his ERA is 4.42, which is high for a closer.
They will need more consistency from Allen during the playoffs. Brad Hand and Adam Climber were acquired to add depth to the bullpen.

A lot of attention has been given to the Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. The Astros are the defending world champions. The Red Sox have a chance to win more regular season games than anyone in major league history. The Yankees added Giancarlo Stanton to the team in the off season and are among the best teams in baseball. It's understandable that those three teams receive a lot of attention. However, the Cleveland Indians have flown under the radar, and they may be just as good as those three teams.



The New York Yankees experienced some changes during the offseason. Manager Joe Girardi was replaced by rookie manager, Aaron Boone. Giancarlo Stanton, the reigning National League MVP, was acquired during the offseason as well. The Yankees scored a lot of runs last year, but the addition of Stanton has made their offensive even better. Currently Stanton leads the team with 32 home runs and 82 runs batted in. Stanton also leads the team in hits with 141. Stanton has been everything the Yankees had hoped he would be, and he has kept the Yankees' offense strong in the absence of Aaron Judge, who is dealing with an injury that has kept him on the DL for four weeks.

At the time of his injury, Judge was hitting .285 with 2 home runs and 61 runs batted it. He was having another good season. The Yankees are hoping to get Judge back within a week or two. The Yankees will need Judge for the last part of the season and the playoffs. The Yankees' offense has not been the same in his absence.

Miguel Andujar and Gleybor Torres are both rookie of the year candidates. Andujar is hitting .301 with 21 home runs and 72 runs batted in. Torres, who recently returned from an injury, is hitting .269 with 20 home runs and 58 runs batted in. Both players need to improve their defense. Torres has made 15 errors and Andujar has made 13 errors. In the playoffs, both players will need to play better defense.

Luis Severino anchors the pitching staff. He has a 3.27 ERA, which is the lowest for Yankee starting pitchers. He leads the team with 17 wins and 189 strikeouts. For much of the year, Severino has pitched like an ace. However, for the past month, Severino has been hittable and inconsistent. He has struggled so much, that he may not start the wild card matchup that the Yankees will probably play in. The Yankees are hoping that Severino can regain his earlier form.

Masihiro Tanaka is 9-5 with a 3.97 ERA. Tanaka has 11 quality starts and 22 starts overall. Tanaka has not been a consistent ace since the Yankees acquired him, however, he has been a valuable member of the Yankees' pitching staff. He has been a decent number two starter for the Yankees this season. If the Yankees can win their one game playoff, then Tanaka would fill an important role in a post season series.

CC Sabathia is in his ninth season with the Yankees. He and Brett Gardner are the only remaining members of the 2009 World Series championship team. Sabathia has battled an injury to his right knee this season. However, he is off the DL now, and the Yankees are hoping he can contribute for the rest of the year and into the playoffs.

The Yankees made a trade for J.A Happ at the trade deadline. He has made five starts for the team since his acquisition. Happ has pitched so well that he may start the team's wild card playoff game. 3 of his 5 starts for the Yankees have been quality starts. The Yankees are hoping that Happ pitches well the rest of the season and into the playoffs. IF the Yankees advance to a playoff series, Happ would be needed in order for the Yankees to be successful.

The Yankees have a strong bullpen. Aroldis Chapman is the closer. Chapman has 31 saves and an ERA of 2.11. Currently, Chapman is injured and will be evaluated in one or two weeks. David Robertson, Dillon Betances and Chad Green are serving as closers for New York in Chapman's absence. Robertson, Green and Betances have been effective this season. All three have served as set up men.

Jonathan Holder has also been effective this season. Zach Britton, acquired from the Baltimore Orioles at the trade deadline, struggled initially, but is now pitching well.

The Yankees could go to the World Series this season. They will need Didi Gregorius and Judge to return from injury in order to be World Series contenders. Additionally, they will need their starting pitchers to pitch better. So far, Severino and Tanaka have not been as consistent as they need to be. As front line starters, Severino and Tanaka need to pitch better more consistently. Happ has helped to stabilize the rotation, and may be needed for the wild card game against Houston or Oakland.



The Oakland Athletics have been surging lately. Once thought of as a team battling for a wild card spot, the Athletics now have a chance to win the Western division. They are only one game in back of the Astros.

Outfielder Khris Davis leads the team in home runs and runs batted in. Davis has hit 39 round trippers and driven in 103 runs. He has been their best player this season. Davis has provided power to the Oakland lineup. He will need to continue to play well if the Athletics want to advance to the World Series.

Third baseman Matt Chapman has also been solid for Oakland. Chapman is hitting .280 with 21 home runs and 52 runs batted in. Chapman leads the team with a .364 on base percentage.

Shortstop Marcus Siemen leads the team with 137 hits. He has also stolen 13 bases this season. Additionally, he has driven in 60 runs, which is the most of his career.

Sean Manaea has been the team's best starting pitcher this season. Manaea is 12-9 with a 3.59 ERA. Manaea leads the team with 108 strikeouts. Additionally, Manaea has been reliable enough to start 27 games and pitch 160 innings. 15 of those starts have been quality starts. Manaea will need to continue to lead the staff if the Athletics are going to advance in the playoffs.

Trevor Cahill has been fairly effective for Oakland this year. He is 5-3 with an ERA of 3.44. He has started 16 games this season, with 8 of them being quality starts.

Daniel Mengden has made 16 starts this year mainly because other A's pitchers have struggled with injuries. Currently Brett Anderson and Manaea are struggling with injuries, so Mengden will have to pitch well in order to compenstate for the injuries to Anderson and Manaea. Mengden has 7 quality starts this year. His overall record is 6-6, with a 4.28 ERA.

Edwin Jackson has started 12 games for Oakland this season. He is 4-3 with a 3.03 ERA. In Jun of this year, Jackson signed a minor league contract with Oakland. He was called up to Oakland in late June. Oakland is Jackson's 13th major league team, which ties a major league record. Jackson utilizes two main pitches - a fastball and a slider. The A's are hoping Jackson can continue to pitch well as they try to make a run for the World Series.

Blake Tienen leads the team with 33 saves. His ERA is an excellent 0.95. Treinen has been one of the best closers in baseball this season. The Athletics need him to continue to lead the bullpen. Lou Trivino, Yusmeiro Petit and Ryan Buchter have also pitched well out of the bullpen this season.

Considering how inconsistent the Oakland starting pitching has been this year, the Athletics need to continue to score runs and pitch well out of the bullpen during the playoffs.

The 2018 American League playoffs should be interesting and exciting. All five teams have good players and will be difficult to beat.

Sometimes music runs in families

In 1962, Jan and Eugenia Van Halen, along with their young sons Alex and Edward, emigrated by boat from the Netherlands to the United States. Jan was a musician who had played in different parts of Europe. He continued to play music when he settled with his family in California. However, he also worked multiple jobs to make ends meet.

Eugenia hoped that her two young sons would not pursue music as a career. However, Alex and Edward both caught the music bug and wanted to have careers as musicians. Both were inspired by hearing their father practice the clarinet frequently. They wanted to have musical careers of their own.

Alex soon took up the drums, while Edward chose to play the guitar. Both became proficient at their instruments. While in high school, they formed a rock band called "Mammoth" which became a staple of the Los Angeles music scene.

In 1974, the band changed their name to "Van Halen." Michael Anthony and David Lee Roth joined the group the same year. Roth would handle the vocals, while Anthony would play the bass. Anthony, Roth and Alex Van Halen were 20 years of age. Edward Van Halen was 18. As young men, the four had settled on a music career and they were in a good place to pursue a career in rock music.

Van Halen produced six albums with this lineup. Their fifth album, "Diver Down", had five cover tunes because the band felt pressure to release an album quickly after the success of their single "Pretty Woman," another cover song.

"Diver Down" features a cover song called "Big Bad Bill is Sweet William Now," which features Jan Van Halen on clarinet. It is the only time Jan Van Halen's performance is featured on an album. Roth originally came up with the idea of doing the song and of including Jan on the record. All of the band members were glad that Jan Van Halen could have his moment in the spotlight. He did well with that moment and played a memorable solo for the song.

Things have come full circle for the Van Halen family. Today, the bass player for the group is Wolfgang Van Halen, Edward's son. He has been the band's bassist since 2006.



Jose Santana was a violinist and a guitarist in mariachi bands. He and his wife, Josefina had 7 children - Carlos, Antonio, Jorge, Laura, Irma, Leticia and Maria. He taught Carlos how to play the violin at age 5. By age 8, Carlos was learning how to play the guitar. Carlos inherited the musical ability of his father.

Carlos referred to his father as an "efficient teacher." He is grateful for the discipline that his parents gave him when he was growing up. He saw how much his father was respected when he performed. Carlos wanted to receive that same kind of respect when he played.

Carlos dedicated his memoir "The Universal Tone: Bringing my story to Light." to his mother. Carlos believed that her prayers helped to make him a better person.

Carlos began playing in his father's mariachi bands when he was 12. When he was older, he formed the "Carlos Santana Blues Band," which eventually became known simply as "Santana." In 1983, Carlos recorded an album entitled "Havana Moon," which featured his father's mariachi band.

Carlos passed on his love for music to his son, Salvador, who began playing piano at age 5. Salvador would later learn how to play percussion, typani drum and piano. Salvador plays in the "Salvador Santana Band" and has released a few albums and an EP.



Daryl Hall's father was a professional musician and his mother was a vocal teacher. Daryl has said that the best musical advice he ever received came from his mother. She told him to sing from the diaphragm and not the throat. She explained to him that the diaphragm would never wear out, whereas the throat could wear out. Daryl has always tried to follow that advice. It has served him well, as he has had a successful singing career.

Todd Rundgren, a good friend of Daryl's, said that Daryl "began singing when he was in the high chair." Rundgren's quote shows how early music became a part of Daryl's life.

Betty Hohl, Daryl's mother, received the 2007 Community Service Award from the Owen J. Roberts School District for her volunteer work in the field of music.

In an interview in 2007, Mrs. Hohl said "I've always been a friend of the arts. I grew up with singers, people who like to sing. We used to sing all the time..My mother and father, my family was musical, and when I had my children we did the same." Hohl pointed out that when she and her husband took their family on trips they would sing in the car.

Hohl pointed out that Daryl played trombone in the marching band when he was in school. She said that Daryl played in different musicals for the school and the community. When speaking of his singing, Hohl said "I didn't have to push him. That was something he loved to do. He loved music, and naturally drifted into anything that was musical."

Hohl said that her parents also promoted a love of music. She remembers singing from a young age. She said that she liked different kind of music. She said that "I also like classical music. I enjoy the opera. So, all kinds of music. If it is music, I love it."



Pop singer Charlie Puth was introduced to music by his parents. Deb Puth, Charlie's mother, began giving him piano lessons when he was 4. She also taught him about classical music. She began teaching her three children how to play the piano when they were 5. She told them that when they reached 8th grade they could choose another instrument. However, she wanted to introduce them to music and the piano at a young age.

Deb noticed that Charlie at a young age had an interest in noise. Deb noticed that Charlie had perfect pitch as a nine year old. She said "I mean he's looking at me telling me the B flat, or he could name multiple notes simultaneously. If you play a chord, a standard triad chord, which is three notes, and if you play them with both hands he could tell you all the notes. He could tell you anything. Perfect pitch - that's a gift. That's a gift from God. That's not something that was learned. I wanted to foster that growth so I found ways to train him. You get the best people, and it certainly wasn't me." She noticed Charlie's musical talent at a young age and helped to foster or develop it.

While Deb Puth encouraged Charlie to develop his musical abilities, she did not apply too much pressure. She says "I also believe if you want something, you don't have to be the best at it. There are levels and there are tiers. There are levels and there are tiers within whatever you want to do that you can succeed at. You don't have to be at the highest level...but you can certainly participate and write music and write scores for Broadway, or a television show, or whatever it is that you want to do. Parents should stop worrying about their kid being the best. Not every kid will be the best at everything." Deb Puth suggests that situations should always be put into the proper perspective. It is good when young people strive to be good at something, but it is not necessary to be the best at something.

Charlie Puth, age 26, has already achieved considerable success. In 2009, he started his own youtube channel. In 2010, he independently released an EP entitled "The Otto Tunes." Later that year, Ellen DeGeneres signed him to her label eleveneleven. In 2013, Puth released his second EP, which was entitled "Ego."

In 2015, he signed with Atlantic Records. During 2015, he released an album entitled "Nine Track Mind." The album was successful and sold many copies. It reached number 6 on the billboard top 200. In 2017, he released "Voicenotes," his second album. He has released three singles from the album.





Michael McDonald, of the Doobie Brothers, began singing with his father when he was four years of age. McDonald told "The Daily and Sunday Express" that his parents introduced him to music. McDonald said "My dad was a singer-not professionally, but he sang in pubs - and whenever he got home I'd ask him to sing a song. It was usually Danny Boy, and he loved old ragtime songs from the 1920's and 30's. I was about four when I started singing with Dad, and I learned to play the banjo to accompany him. I leaned the piano, too, but in lessons I struggled to pay attention so I was mainly self taught."

McDonald sang with Steely Dan and joined the "Doobie Brothers" in 1976. In 1982, he embarked on a solo career which produced nine albums. McDonald has won 5 Grammy Awards.

In 1980, McDonald produced his wife Amy Holland's solo album. "How Do I Survive," a single from Holland's album, became a hit song. Additionally, he worked on his son Dylan's album as well. "Dylan McDonald and the Avians" have released an album recently and are touring to promote their work.

Music continues to be passed down in the McDonald family.



When he was four years of age, Dave Brubeck took piano lessons from his mother. She played Frederick Chopin's piano pieces, which Dave would alter and modify. Brubeck would re arrange the music to sound more like jazz.

When he was 14 years old, Brubeck started to play gigs with a band.

Brubeck's father was a cattle rancher. Brubeck went to college for verinary medicine. However, one of his professor's noticed that Brubeck was much more interested in music, so he encouraged Brubeck to change his major to music. The professor noticed that Brubeck wanted to spend most of his time practicing at the conservatory. So, a switch to music made the most sense.

Brubeck was drafted into the Army. He played at a Red Cross concert which was well received. The performance was so popular that Brubeck was asked to form a band. Brubeck was taken out of combat duty due to the popularity of his band.

In 1951, Brubeck formed a Quartet. The quartet recorded two albums in 1953 and one in 1954. Brubeck was on the cover of "Time" magazine in 1954. In 1959, the quartet recorded another album. One of the most successful albums by the quartet was a live recording from Carnegie Hall in 1963. In the 1960's there were some years when the Brubeck quartet released as many as four albums a year.

Brubeck married Iola Whitlock in 1942. They had 6 children together. All 6 took music lessons. Darius, Michael, Christopher, Catherine, Daniel and Matthew all became musicians. All 6 continued the Brubeck musical legacy.

Darius Brubeck, Dave's oldest son, studied music in college. He wrote music and became a bandleader. He went on to teach music in college as well. Matthew Brubeck, his youngest son, is a cellist who released two albums in the 1990's. Daniel and Christopher are also active musicians.



Harry Connick jr. was immersed in music at a young age. He started piano lessons when he was 3 years old. By age 5 he was playing for audiences in the community. When he was 10 years of age, he made a recording with a local jazz band.

Connick's father is a singer who performs in his community. Connick, Sr. was influenced by music at a young age as well. He was particularly impressed by the music of the Glenn Miller orchestra. He was nicknamed the "Singing District Attorney" because of his singing in the local community. Connick Sr.'s wife, Anita, was a very good flute player. Additionally, the Connick family owned a record store when Harry Connick Jr. was growing up.

Harry Connick Jr's parents passed on their love of music to their son. Connick, Jr. made a soundtrack for the movie "When Harry met Sally." The soundtrack was very successful.

In 1992, Connick Jr. recorded an album entitled 25, which was a collection of solo piano music. The album featured piano standards such as "Stardust," "On the Street Where You Live,", "Tangerine", and "Caravan." The album showcased Connick, Jr.'s piano playing ability.

In 1994, Connick Jr. recorded an album entitled She. The successful album featured New Orleans funk music. After the album was released, Connick Jr. toured the United Kingdom and China in order to promote the album.

In 2003, Connick Jr. recorded an album entitled Other Hours Connick on Piano Volume 1. In order to promote the album, Connick Jr. The songs featured Connik Jr. on piano and three other jazz musicians. The album was the first that Connick ever recorded as a member of a quartet.

Connick jr. has done a lot with his musical talent. He has added to his family's musical legacy.



Paul McCartney may be the best song writer in pop music over the last 50 years or so. McCartney's work with the Beatles, and his efforts after the Beatles represents some of the best song writing pop music has ever seen. Even today, the Beatles represent the gold standard for pop music. Their music seems almost as relevant today as it was when it was first composed and recorded. McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr all showed themselves to be capable song writers and musicians.

McCartney was born in 1942 to James McCartney and Mary Patricia McCartney. James McCartney played in ragtime and jazz bands when Paul was growing up. James McCartney had a record collection that he would play for his family. Additionally, he played songs on the piano for his family. When he and his family listed to the radio together, James would talk to his children about the different musical instruments in the recording.

James McCartney encouraged Paul to play the piano. James encouraged Paul to take music lessons as well. Nevertheless, Paul preferred to learn by ear and soon gave up the music lessons. Paul wrote the song "Let It Be" in 1968 in order to honor his mother.

Joe McCartney, Paul's grandfather, listened to the opera and played the tuba in a local band. Joe McCartney also played double bass and sang. Joe McCartney hoped to pass on his love of music to his family.

Paul McCartney's first group, "The Quarrymen", rehearsed in his parents' home at night. Later, after the Beatles disbanded, Paul recorded a song called "Walking in the Park with Eloise", which had been written by his father.

Paul McCartney's success with the Beatles has been well chronicled. The Beatles contributed a lot to the history or popular music. There many hit songs have become a part of popular culture. Their songs have been covered by many bands and artists. Their music inspired many to learn how to play musical instruments and form musical groups. The Beatles' music continues to be a part of our popular culture.



Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born on April 29th, 1899 in Washington, D.C. Duke Ellington's parents, James Edward And Daisy Ellington, were both piano players. Daisy played parlor songs, while Edward played operatic music. Duke Ellington began taking piano lessons at 7 years of age. His parents encouraged him to learn from ragtime pianists.

When the family took summer vacations, Duke's parents encouraged him to learn from the pianists that the family would meet during their trips. As he grew older, Duke learned how to read music and began performing in bands. His parents' tutelage and encouragement instilled within him a love for music and the piano. Duke was growing as a musician.

Duke would work a job during the day and play music at night. In the 1920's Duke performed in Broadway clubs as a bandleader. At one point, the band had 10 musicians. Some of Duke's famous songs include "Concerto for Cootie," "Cotton Tail," and "Ko-Ko."
Two of his most famous songs are "It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing," and "Satin Doll." Some people consider "Take the A Train," to be his most famous song.

Duke married Edna Thompson in 1918. They had one son named Mercer Kennedy Ellington. Mercer wrote a piece of music called "Pigeons and Peppers," which was recorded by his father. Mercer attended the Julliard School. Mercer followed in his father's footsteps and became a bandleader as well. Mercer composed music for his father. At various points, Mercer played in his father's orchestra.

The Ellington family had three generations of musicians. Of course, Duke Ellington became the most famous of the Ellingtons. Duke benefited from his parents' encouragement and help. He passed on that encouragement and help to his own son, Mercer.




Martha Reeves was born in 1941 to Elijah Joshua Reeves and Ruby Lee Gilmore Reeves. She was born in Eufaula, Alabama and raised in Detroit, Michigan. The family participated in a church that was pastored by her grandfather, Reverend Elijah Reeves. In addition to participating in the church, the family also sang in the choir. Elija played guitar in the choir, while Ruby sang. Elijah and Ruby passed on their love of music onto their children.

While in high school, Martha began taking singing lessons. As she got older, Martha worked during the day and sang at night in the most respected clubs in Detroit.

Martha joined a group called the "Vandellas" after a couple of members left. Eventually, the group became known as "Martha Reeves and the Vandellas." Some of their hit songs included "Dancing in the Streets," "Come and Get These Memories," "Heat Wave," "Wild One", "Nowhere to Run," and "Jimmy Mack."

After Martha left the Vandellas, she would go on to sing concerts with her sisters Lois and Delphine. The musical foundation that her parents gave Martha and her sisters had come full circle.

These are just 10 examples of families who passed on their love of music to the next generation and in some cases multiple generations. The history of music and of popular culture is richer because of the tutelage and guidance of these parents and families.

Accuracy is foundational for NFL quarterbacks

NFL scouts say accuracy is the most important quality in a quarterback. When drafting a quarterback out of college, scouts look first for accuracy. Inaccuracy produces incompletions and interceptions. Accuracy leads to completions and touchdowns. A quarterback needs to be accurate in order for a team to move the football down the field.

In the 2018 NFL draft, scouts said that Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen needed to become more accurate passers. This may have effected their standing in the draft. In contrast, the scouts complimented the accuracy of Josh Rosen and Sam Darnold. Rosen went later in the draft than many predicted, but it was not because there were questions about his accuracy. Darnold went 3rd overall to the New York Jets.

Baker Mayfield was the most accurate quarterback in division 1 college football last year. Mayfield, while playing for the University of Oklahoma, completed 70% of his passes. He was drafted fourth overall by the Cleveland Browns. The Browns are hoping his high completion percentage will continue in the NFL.

Last season, Darnold completed 63.1% of his passes, and Rosen completed 62.6% of his passes. Allen completed 56.3% of his passes, while Jackson completed 59.1% of his passes.

Drew Brees, of the New Orleans Saints, is the most accurate quarterback in NFL history. Brees has completed 66.9% of his career pass attempts. Chad Pennington has completed the second highest percentage of his passes at 66%. Kurt Warner and Kirk Cousins both completed 65.5% of their passes. Peyton Manning and Tony Romo completed 65.3% of their passes.

Brees has had three of the most accurate four seasons for a quarterback. In 2017, Brees completed 72% of his passes, which is the highest completion percentage for a single season in NFL history. Brees also completed 71.2% of his passes in 2011 and 70.6% of his passes in 2009. Sam Bradford completed 71.6% of his passes in 2016, which is the second highest completion percentage for a single season in league history. Ken Anderson completed 70.6% of his passes in 1982.

In addition to Brees, other quarterbacks completed a high percentage of their passes in 2017. Case Keenum completed the second highest percentage of his passes at 67.6%. Alex Smith completed the third highest percentage at 67.5%. Josh McCown completed 67.3 % of his passes. Tom Brady completed 66.3% of his passes. Brees, Keenum, Smith, McCown and Brady were the five most accurate passers in the league last year. Ironically, Keenum and Smith are on new teams for the upcoming season.

Profootballfocus.com ranked the most accurate deep ball passers in 2017. The site refers to a stat called "adjusted completion percentage" which looks at throws for 20 yards or more. The statistic accounts for "dropped passes, throwaways and passes in which the quarterback was hit as he throws." The stat is a decent way to measure the accuracy of quarterbacks who throw deep passes.

According to Profootballfocus.com, Alex Smith was the most accurate deep passer last season. Smith's adjusted completion percentage was 56.5%. Brees was second best at 52.5%. McCown had an adjusted completion percentage of 46.7%. Dak Prescott was the fourth most accurate passer on deep throws with an adjusted completion percentage of 46.5%. Smith, Brees, McCown and Prescott were the most accurate quarterbacks on deep throws in 2017.

Troy Aikman is the most accurate quarterback in Super Bowl history. Aikman completed 70% of his passes in 3 games. Joe Montana completed 68% of this passes in 4 games. Peyton Manning completed 66.5% of his passes in 4 different games. Eli Manning completed 66.2% of his passes in 2 games. Tom Brady has completed 65.8% of his passes in 8 games.



Phil Simms had the most accurate game in Super Bowl history. In Super Bowl XXI, Simms completed 88% of his passes. In Super Bowl XLIV, Brees completed 82.1% of his throws. Montana completed 75.9% of his passes in Super Bowl XXIV. Eli Manning completed 75% of his passes in Super Bowl XLVI. Brady completed 74% of his tosses in Super Bowl XLIX.

Throwing the football into a tight window is also a sign of accuracy. According to "Next Gen Stats", a tight window pass happens when the intended receiver is separated from the defender by less than one yard. Recently, NFL quarterbacks were ranked according to this ability. The rankings took three criteria into consideration: Completion percentage on tight window passes; passer rating on tight-window passes; adjusted yards per attempt on tight-window passes. The rankings were added to create the total score for 35 different quarterbacks who were ranked the highest.

Prescott was the best tight window passer. He had a completion percentage of 45.8% on tight window passes. He had the best passer rating on tight window throws at 82.1. Additionally, he had 7.41 for adjusted yards per attempt. Matthew Stafford was second overall. Case Keenum was third overall. Alex Smith was fourth overall. Ben Roethlisberger was fifth overall.

The ability to throw into a tight window is important. It enables a quarterback to throw the football to a wide receiver who may be covered closely. The ability to throw the football into a tight window helps to offset good defensive coverage. This ability depends on natural talent and hard work. The natural talent must be cultivated with hard work and practice.

Accuracy is a skill that quarterbacks develop over time. They have to have the basic skill of hand/eye coordination. This basic ability has to be innate and inborn. However, quarterbacks can develop accuracy over time.

Quarterbacks can become more accurate through rote repetition. They can practice throwing the football at different lengths. They can practice short, medium and deep throws. There is no substitute for rote repetition and practice.

Quarterbacks can throw a football through a tire which is played at different points on the field. Quarterbacks can practice throwing the football to wide receivers who run different routes. Of course, there is no substitute for passing the football to a covered wide receiver. This forces the quarterback to throw a football into a tight window.

Ryan Brennan, writing for thoughtco.com, discusses 7 drills that can improve accuracy.

The first drill is called "The Two Knees Drill: Warm-Up." This drill improves concentration and warms up the quarterback's arm. In this drill, two quarterbacks position themselves on their knees. They stand 10 yards from each other. The quarterbacks throw the football back and forth to one another. The focus is on accuracy and concentration instead of speed.

The second drill is called The One Knee Drill: Wrist Motion and Arm Strength. Two quarterbacks, once again, kneel down about 10 yards from each other. However, this time each quarterback kneels down on one knee only. The quarterback is encouraged to focus on using the arm only for the throw. This is an attempt to build strength in the quarterback's arm.

The third drill is called The Circle Toss Drill:Agility. This drill involves two people. One person stands still. The other person runs in a circle around the person and throws the ball to the person standing still. The radius of the circle is a decent distance away. The two quarterbacks can change roles eventually. The person doing the passing can also change directions.

The fourth drill is called Down the Line Drill: Conditioning and Throwing. During this drill, both quarterbacks run the distance of the field while they are playing catch. During this drill, both players will have to adjust their targets and throw the football quickly so that they get in as many throws as possible. Both players are 10 yards from each other during this drill.

The fifth drill is called Sprint Out Drill: Accuracy. During this drill, one player sprints out to the left. The quarterback will throw the ball to the receiver after the sprint. Then the receiver will sprint out to the right and receive the football after the sprint.

The sixth drill is called Find Open Receiver Drill: Scanning and Adaptable Decision Making. The goal here is for the quarterback to survey the field before he chooses where to pass the football. This drill improves the quarterback's decision making ability and accuracy, which should improve his completion percentage. 10 to 15 players line up as receivers. The quarterback looks at the receivers , while the coach stands behind him. The coach points to a receiver to be a target. The receiver puts up his hand, while the quarterback continues to survey the field. Then the quarterback throws the football to the receiver who has his hand raised.

The seventh drill is called Throwing Progression Drill: Warm - Up. Two quarterbacks look at each other while they are standing 15 yards apart. At first, the two quarterbacks are sitting on the ground while they play catch. After 25 passes, they kneel on one knee. The quarterbacks can continue to sit and kneel in different positions. The two quarterbacks focus on their techniques and mechanics.



Jim Harbaugh, head coach of the University of Michigan, has a list of favorite quarterback drills. Michael Austin, writing for coachad.com, discusses some of those drills.

During the anticipation drill, the quarterback improves his ability to throw the football to a receiver that he anticipates will get open. A receiver sets up behind a screen. The quarterback drops back and then throws the football to the receiver as he becomes visible from behind the screen.

During the Quick Release Drill, the quarterback improves his accuracy by throwing the football to a stationary target. A coach kneels close to the quarterback and tosses the football to the quarterback who throws the football as quickly as possible to a stationary target. After the quarterback throws the football, the coach tosses the quarterback another football.

During the Hitch-Hitch-Go-Or-Throw Drill, the quarterback moves into the pocket and decides whether he should throw or run after he surveys the field. The quarterback can drop five or seven feet back. The quarterback makes two hitch moves and moves towards the line of scrimmage while the coach pretends to be a linebacker. The coach either drops back into coverage or goes after the quarterback. The quarterback has to make a quick and good decision based on the movement of the coach.

Harbaugh's fourth drill is called The Circle Drill. This drill improves a quarterback's ability "to throw on the run, off balance or under duress." The drill improves a quarterback's ability to throw when he is outside the pocket. Two quarterbacks line up 5 yards from different cones. Both quarterbacks run to the right while they stay 10 yards away from each other. Then the coach yells "switch" which tells the quarterbacks to move in the opposite direction.

Accuracy is connected to mechanics, arm strength and footwork. Good quarterbacks need the proper mechanics and footwork. Additionally, they need the arm strength to make deep throws. Even good quarterbacks can improve in these areas.

Jimmy Garoppolo is a good quarterback. However, as he enters his first full season as an NFL starting quarterback, there are ways in which he can improve. Richard Madrid, of 49erswebzone.com, discusses some of the ways that Garoppolo can improve.

Madrid says that Garoppolo needs to improve his footwork. Madrid says that Garoppolo can limit the number of errant throws he makes, if he improves his footwork. Madrid says "Early on in his starts for the 49ers it was apparent that he lacked the ability to throw deep passes with any consistency because his footwork prevented him from delivering passes with enough control and velocity." Madrid suggests that if Garoppolo can improve his footwork, he could become more consistent.

Madrid says "The glaring issue with his footwork is that he has a tendency to not open up his front foot (plant foot) to the target. When a quarterback doesn't open his front foot to the target, it screws up his weight transfer on the rest of the throw. The back foot lags behind, the hips don't rotate and generate torque, and the throwing power is generated in the elbow and the shoulder, causing control issues." Madrid suggests that Garoppolo's accuracy is harmed when he does not open up his front foot and point it towards the receiver. Consequently, poor weight transfer effects the pass. By forcing the shoulder and the elbow to "power" the throw, it makes Garoppolo less accurate.

Madrid elaborates by saying "A quarterback's throwing power, like most athletes, is generated in the hips. Try and throw a football with just your arm and then try and throw it while rotating your hips. The ball travels much farther and with greater control. Even baseball players, try swinging a bat with just your arms and then try swinging while rotating your hips. You generate much more power." So, Madrid emphasizes the importance of hip rotation for a quarterback. Like footwork, hip rotation, effects the accuracy of a quarterback.



Madrid says that Aaron Rodgers is one of the most accurate quarterbacks in the NFL. Rodgers has many good qualities as a quarterback that support his fundamental accuracy. These qualities may not be directly related to accuracy, however, they allow Rodgers to employ his accurate throwing motion.

Brandon Hall, writing for Stack.com, discusses Rodgers' passing ability. Hall notes that when Rodgers came out of college he had flaws in his passing game that were corrected. When he entered the NFL, Rodgers held the football too high. However, Hall says "Once he arrived in Green Bay, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy and former Packers quarterback coach Tom Clements went to work on Rodgers' mechanics. Perhaps, most importantly, they gradually helped him hold the ball lower in the pocket. Eventually, Rodgers became comfortable holding the ball between the middle of his chest and his throwing shoulder, making his delivery much more fluid. If you ask Rodgers about his mechanics today, he's quick to point out how vital a role his lower half plays." This change in mechanics helped Rodgers to utilize his feet and legs to help him become more accurate and do develop more strength on his throws. Rodgers' receptivity to coaching helped him to improve his game when he entered the NFL.

According to Zach Kruse, of bleacherreport.com, Rodgers' "escapability" helps him to be such a good quarterback. Kruse says "There is no quarterback in the NFL as consistently accurate outside the pocket as Rodgers, and his footwork is a big reason why. Big plays happen in the NFL when quarterbacks get outside the pocket and have clear lanes to throw the football down the field. Accurate throws are then a must." Rodgers is capable of making big plays because he can escape from the pocket and identify clear lanes to throw the football into. So, Rodgers' ability to escape from the rush and improvise makes him more accurate as a passer.

Kruse also points out that Rodgers can control a defense with his eyes. Kruse says "You have to love when an offensive route concept is augmented by a quarterback who can change what a defense is doing by simply using his eyes. Rodgers does it with the best in the NFL on a consistent basis." Sometimes Rodgers will focus on one receiver, which makes the defense thinks he will throw the football to him. However, then Rodgers will throw the football to another receiver who he did not look at. Sometimes, the second receiver gets open because the defense thinks Rodgers is going to throw the football to the receiver that Rodgers is looking at. It is a good technique that helps Rodgers to fool the defense and keep them off balance.

Kruse also says that Rodgers shows good "anticipation against a blitz." Rodgers can find the open receiver even when the defense blitzes. Sometimes Rodgers is undaunted when he is facing the blitz. Rodgers can calmly make the right read and accurately throw the football to an open receiver.

In Rodgers' case, accuracy remains his most important attribute as a quarterback. Accuracy is the foundation of his ability as a quarterback. However, these other qualities add to his ability as a quarterback. These other qualities are like pillars that are attached to the foundation of accuracy. These and other qualities make Rodgers one of the best quarterbacks in the game today.

Aaron Rodgers may be the best quarterback in the game today. However, Peyton Manning is one of the all time greats. Manning was also known for his accuracy. Manning was accurate because of a combination of his natural talent, hard work, preparation, constant practice and his innate understanding of the game. A combination of many attributes helped to make Manning an accurate quarterback.

In 2014, Manning's third year with the Denver Broncos, Troy Renck, of the Denver Post, said "Accuracy. It defines his (Manning's) statistics, and why it should come as no surprise that in meetings, coaches have referred to him as Greg Maddux because of his command." Renck believed that Manning's accuracy defined his total body of work. Manning's accuracy is what helped to define his career.

Renck said "Manning possesses the skill to throw to open. Translation: The cornerback blankets the receiver until the last moment before the ball arrives. This talent remains as valuable to Manning as detecting a linebacker's stance at the line of scrimmage or a safety blitz. He learned as a rookie that open in the NFL represents inches, not feet." In other words, Manning learned early in his NFL career that precision matters a lot to a quarterback. Being precise with his passes helped Manning to have a good career. Precision helped him to become successful as a quarterback.

Renck pointed out that Manning used "summer practice to develop timing, working before and after practice with receivers. The process begins with air routes, where no defense exists, followed by 7-on-7 and finally the entire offensive group." So, Manning utilized the summer to work on precision and timing with his receivers. He wanted to develop a rapport and a good working chemistry with his receivers. The more Manning and the Bronco receivers practiced together, the more precise Manning's passes would be to the receivers. Hence, the more successful the Bronco offensive would be.

A quarterback needs to do many things in order to be successful. He needs to be able to go through his progressions and locate the open receiver. A quarterback needs to be able to read defenses and see whether the safety is going to help the cornerback. A quarterback needs to identify the blitz and call audibles at the line of scrimmage if necessary.

A quarterback needs to have a strong arm in order to throw deep passes. A quarterback needs to be able to take charge in the huddle and guide the team down the field. He needs to be able to effectively run the play action pass in order to draw in the defenders to give the receivers some separation.

There are many things that a quarterback needs to do. However, accuracy is the most important attribute of a quarterback. Accuracy is the most important quality that a quarterback can have. Perhaps more than anything else, accuracy defines whether a quarterback will be successful in the NFL.

Minor league baseball is major league fun

The gates open and the fans are allowed in. The song "The boys are back in town" plays over the loud speaker. The song expresses that the Binghamton Rumble Ponies are back in town to begin a home stand. The song sets the tone for a minor league baseball game that will feature many sights and sounds.

Within the stadium is the scent of Lupo's chicken speedies and beer. At the concession stand are baked hot pretzels, pizza, hamburger, French fries, chicken tenders, soda and bottled water. Pop corn in jumbo plastic baseball helmets are sold. Ice cream in smaller plastic baseball helmets are sold as well.

The national anthem is played while fans and players stand at attention. The umpires meet with the managers at home plate. Then the Rumble Ponies take the field as the home crowd applauds. The visiting team comes up to bat.

When the Rumble Ponies are at bat, most players have a song that plays when they walk up to the plate. Music plays a prominent role in the sounds of the game.

Sometimes songs play over the loud speaker to reinforce what has just happened.

For instance, when the Rumble Ponies have 2 outs, the song "One More Chance" by the Jackson 5 can be heard. The Rumble Ponies have one more chance to extend the inning because there are only two outs.

When a player for Binghamton hits a double, Bon Jovi's song "Living on a Prayer" plays over the loud speaker. The verse "We're half way there" plays because the base runner on second base is half way to home.



Additionally, when a Rumble Pony hits home run, the song "Na,Na,Na,Na, Hey, Hey-ey Goodbye" plays over the loudspeaker. The fans wave goodbye to the baseball as it sails over the fence for a home run.

After the 7th inning stretch, the song "Cotton Eyed Joe" plays over the loudspeaker. The fans sing along with the song. Some of the younger employees working at the game dance on top of the home dugout and the away dugout.

Before the 8th inning, children run across the field while Bryan Adams' song "Run to You" plays over the loudspeaker.

This season post game fire works were scheduled for 15 different days. Different music was played during the fireworks. Some artists who were featured included Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, The Beatles, Billy Joel and Elvis Presley. Two nights featured patriotic themes including July 4th.

The stadium also hosts "Bark at the Park night." On this night, fans are allowed to bring their dogs. The stadium hosted three such nights this season. During the evening, songs with a canine theme are played over the loudspeaker. Songs like "Who Let the Dogs Out" and "Hound Dog" are played at the stadium. Additionally, hot dogs, normally sold at $2.50 a piece, are sold for $1.00.

The outfield wall at NYSEG stadium features ads for local businesses. When a pitching change is made for the Rumble Ponies, it is sponsored by "A Touch of Texas", a local establishment. In every way possible, the Rumble Ponies' organization tries to accent it's connection to the local community.

The organization also tried to emphasize it's Rumble Ponie name. For instance, above the female bathrooms is the word "Mares", and above the men's bathroom is the word "Stallions." The stadium is informally known as "Rumble Town, USA."

The organization deserves credit for it's enthusiasm for the it's team name. It also deserves credit for it's loyalty to the area. Both seem sincere and genuine. The organization takes pride in the area and in the team name.

The Rumble Ponies play in the Eastern League, which features 12 double A baseball teams. All 12 teams are affiliated with major league teams. Here are the 12 teams: Binghamton Rumble Ponies(Mets); Hartford Yard Goats(Rockies); New Hampshire Fisher Cats(Blue Jays); Portland Sea Dogs(Red Sox); Reading Fightin Phils(Phillies); Trenton Thunder(Yankees); Akron RubberDucks(Indians); Altoon Curve(Pirates); Bowie Baysox(Orioles); Erie SeaWolves(Tigers); Harrisburg Senators(Nationals); Richmond Flying Squirrels( Giants).

The team names for minor league organizations are memorable and unique. Minor league team names remind fans that baseball is a game. It is fun. It is competitive, but like all games, should not be taken too seriously. Teams want to win and compete, but at the end of the day, sports should be fun and memorable for both the participants and the fans.

Major league teams are judged on wins and losses. Winning is the bottom line in major league baseball. However, the goal of minor league organizations is to develop the players. Player development is the highest priority within the minor leagues. Double A affiliates want to develop as many players as possible. Minor league affiliates want to prepare as many players as possible for the major leagues.

Some minor league players are major league prospects. They have a serious chance of making it to the major leagues. However, some minor league players are organizational prospects. In other words, they are there to fill out minor league rosters and provide competition for the true major league prospects. An organization has to figure out which players are true major league prospects, and which ones are organizational prospects.



Player development is not easy. Many minor league hitters can hit fastballs. However, minor league coaches have to teach hitters how to hit breaking pitches in order to help those players make it to the major leagues. In order to make it to the major league level, minor league players need to be able to hit more that just fastballs.

Likewise, pitchers have to develop different pitches at the minor league level in order to make it top the major leagues. It is not enough to be able to throw a fastball. A major league pitcher has to have an expanded repertoire. A major league pitcher has to be able to throw curve balls, sinkers, sliders, change ups, etc. A major league pitcher has to keep hitters off balance.

So, minor league teams are judged on their ability to develop players. Wins and losses are important. However, player development is the most important responsibility of a minor league team.

There are also unique promotional give aways during the game. If the Rumble Ponies shut out an opponent in the top half of the 5th inning, each fan in attendance receives a voucher for a free donut at "Dunkin Donuts." If a Rumble Ponie hits a home run in a certain inning, all fans in attendance receive a voucher for a free whopper at Burger King. These are neat promotional give aways that link the local community with the team. They are also good play on words.

At every game, a fan is chosen to answer a trivia question that takes the form of a multiple choice question. The fans stands on the top of one of the dugouts and answers the question. His or her image is shown on the jumbo tron which also shows the four choices. After the fan answers the question, the right choice appears on the screen. There is some sort of prize for the fan if he or she answers the question correctly.

Each game also includes a 50/50 raffle.

The stadium where the Rumble Ponies is called NYSEG stadium, but it is also known as Rumble Town, USA. Above the female bathrooms is the word "Mares" and above the male bathrooms is the word "stallions."

Needless to say, the city of Binghamton takes great pride in it's baseball team. Broome County is proud of the Rumble Ponies. This is our team.

The Rumble Ponies play in the Eastern League, which features double A affiliates of major league baseball teams. In addition to the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, the teams are the following: Hartford Yard Goats(Rockies); New Hampshire Fisher Cats(Blue Jays); Portland Sea Dogs(Red Sox); Reading Fightin Phils(Phillies); Trenton Thunder(Yankees); Akron RubberDucks(Indians); Altoona Curve(Pirates); Bowie Baysox(Orioles); Erie SeaWolves(Tigers); Harrisburg Senators(Nationals); and the Richmond Flying Squirrels(Giants). '

The Mets have called up a few Rumble Ponies this year.

Second baseman Jeff McNeil was called up in late July. He is hitting .289 with 2 home runs and 4 runs batted in. Kevin Plawecki was called up earlier in the season. Plawecki, an outfielder, is hitting .222 with 3 home runs and 15 runs batted in. Both do not project as impact players. However, they may turn out to be major league players who can provide the Mets with depth.

Relief pitcher Corey Oswalt was promoted to New York this season. In 33.1 innings, Oswalt has pitched to a 5.13 ERA with 23 strike outs. It's uncertain if Oswalt is good enough to be part of the Mets' bullpen in the future. At least now, he is being given a chance to contribute.

Currently the Rumble Ponies have some talented players who have big league potential. Shortstop Levi Michael is hitting .305 with 10 home runs and 36 runs batted in. He is a potential starting short stop in the big leagues, perhaps for the Mets. Michael also has some speed, as he has stolen 13 bases this season.

First baseman, Peter Alonso is hitting a robust .314 with 15 home runs and 15 runs batted in. With numbers like that, Alonso projects as a possible starting first baseman in the major leagues. If his power can translate to the major leagues, he may get an opportunity at he major league level.

First baseman, Joey Terdoslavich, has been playing well lately. In 192 at bats, Terdoslavich has hit 4 home runs with 19 runs batted in. At 29 years of age, Terdoslavich does not project as a starter. However, he may be added to a big league roster some day to provide some depth or a pinch hitter off of the bench. As a switch hitter, Terdoslavich could provide pinch hitting in key situations of a game.

The Rumble Ponies have been good for Binghamton and Broome County. The city and the county are proud of the Rumble Ponies. The team has brought more fun into the area. The Rumble Ponies have reminded people that minor league baseball is major league fun.

Free agent acquisitions, the Washington Wizards and the annual optimism of sports

After a tough or disappointing season, the fans of a team or an organization will often say "Oh well, there is always next year." The phrase expresses the annual optimism of fans or a front office that believes next season can be better than last season.

Sometimes teams go a long time without winning a championship. The Chicago Cubs went 105 seasons in between World Series wins. The Boston Red Sox went 96 years in between World Series titles. The Texas Rangers, Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, Washington Nationals and Seattle Mariners have never won a World Series.

In the NBA the Sacramento Kings have gone 68 years without winning a championship. The Atlanta Hawks have gone 58 seasons without a championship title. In 48 seasons the Los Angeles Clippers have never won a title. The Milwaukee Bucks last won a title 47 years ago, while the New York Knicks were champions for the last time 45 years ago.

The Washington Wizards won the NBA championship 40 years ago. They were then known as the Washington Bullets. They defeated the Seattle Super Sonics in 7 games to in the 1978 NBA championship. They lost the following year in the finals to the Sonics in 6 games.

Since that championship 40 years ago, the Bullets/Wizards have been saying "Oh, well, there is always next year." The Wizards organization and their supporters have been motivated by the optimism that is associated with the future.

During the offseason, Washington has added Dwight Howard, Jeff Green and Austin Rivers to the roster. The organization hopes that these three players will supplement a core that includes John Wall, Bradley Beal, Otto Porter, Jr. and Markief Morris. The Wizards are especially hopeful that the talented, but mercurial Howard can help the Wizards win at least one playoff series.

Howard has played for 5 teams in 14 seasons. The Wizards are his fourth team in the last four seasons. Both Howard and the Wizards are hopeful that this partnership lasts longer than Howard's tenure with Atlanta and Charlotte, the last two teams he played for.

At his press introductory press conference, Howard said all of the right things. Athletes who sign lucrative contracts with new teams always say the right things at introductory press conferences. It would be noteworthy if they said the wrong things when they are introduced to a new fan base.

Howard said he would like to retire with Washington. However, he said he would like to retire with Atlanta and Charlotte respectively when he had his introductory press conferences with those teams. Yet, he only played one year with both teams. If Howard wants to retire a Wizard, he needs to be a team player and make sacrifices for the good of the team. Words are easily spoken, but sacrifices are difficult to make when the rubber hits the road.

Howard is good at participating in the pick and roll, which is one of the Wizards' most popular plays. If he works well with Wall on this play, then he could help Washington's offense. Howard could set a screen for Wall, which would help Wall to roll to the basket and score. Additionally, Howard could roll to the basket for a score. Either way, Howard could help the Wizards' offense.

Howard could also help the Wizards' defense by protecting the rim and by blocking shots. He can box out and get offensive and defensive rebounds. Howard could help the Wizards' defense and rebounding.

However, Howard's attitude in the locker room is going to be very important. He needs to be a team player and he needs to respect the coach. Howard needs to support his teammates and the coaching staff. He needs to be a supportive presence in the locker room, not a divisive presence. Ultimately, it is Howard's attitude that will make the difference in whether or not he contributes to the Wizards' success.

Rivers will be a back up guard for Washington. He could lead the second unit as a point guard or shooting guard. He can make three point shots, which is important in today's NBA. There may be times when Wall, Beal and Rivers play on the court at the same time. A three guard line up could help Washington to make more three point shots.

Green will also play on the second unit. He will play the small forward position. Green can play help defense in the paint. Green can also bring the basketball up the court and drive into the lane. Green is good in the open court and can change hands as he goes in for a lay up. He also has the strength to post up his opponents and score. In a word, Green is a versatile player. He makes the second unit stronger. Green could come of the bench and give Porter, Jr. the opportunity to rest.

Adding Howard, Rivers and Green makes the Wizards more talented. However, their contribution to the Washington Wizards will depend on the attitude that each player has.

The Washington Wizards are a talented team, but they need to play like a team in order to advance in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The talent is there, but now the Wizards need to apply themselves on the court in order to achieve success.

The Wizards' organization and fans are hoping that next year will be a year to remember. They are hoping that at season's end that they do not have to say "Oh, well there is always next year."

The top 10 most successfull NFL franchises

The National Football League began in 1920. It was initially known as the APFA, or the American Professional Football Association. This was the name of the league for the first two seasons. The league became known as the National Football League in 1922.

Since 1920 there have been many successful teams. Many different teams have won championships. After the AFL and the NFL merged, the championship became known as the Super Bowl. After the 1966 season, the team that won the title became known as Super Bowl champions. There have been 52 Super Bowls.

Championship games give players a chance to leave behind a memorable legacy. They give players a chance to make their mark on the history of the game. Fans remember key moments of a game and recall important plays made by key players. Additionally, fans may remember an outstanding effort by a offensive or defensive unit.

The more championships or Super Bowl titles that a franchise wins, the greater the legacy of that organization. All of the players who have played in the league the past 97 years deserve credit for their effort and their commitment. Football is a tough game. It represents one of the greatest challenges possible for an athlete. Throughout the history of the NFL, many players and teams earned respect.

It is difficult to create a list of the top 10 most successful NFL franchises. Good teams will be left off of the list. It is also difficult to know for certain where to place the teams on the list. There may be little that separates the top 3 teams or the 5th from the 6th best teams.

There were organizations that missed the top 10 who have an outstanding history. For instance, the Detroit Lions, Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders, Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos all were not included in the top 10. However, all have had many good moments throughout their respective histories. All have won championships. All four of those teams have made their mark in the history of the NFL.

Athletics bring out the best in individuals and teams. Athletics inspire teamwork and preparation. Athletes make sacrifices to help their teams to win and compete. They dedicate themselves to the goals of the team. This is true in football and in other sports.

All 10 of these NFL franchises have had a lot of players who have showed teamwork and dedication. In many situations, those efforts have resulted in championships. In my opinion, these are the 10 most successful franchises in NFL history. The list proceeds from the 10th most successful to the most successful in NFL history.


10. The Philadelphia Eagles



The Philadelphia Eagles are the defending Super Bowl champions. They won an improbable championship last year after Carson Wentz, their starting quarterback, went down with a season ending injury. Back up quarterback Nick Foles stepped up and led the Eagles to their first ever Super Bowl championship.

In addition to last year's Super Bowl title, they had won the NFL championship in 1948, 1949 and 1960. They have made 25 playoff appearances and won their division 13 times. The team made their debut in 1933 and were called the "Eagles" every year except 1943 when they were referred to as the "Steagles". In 1943, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles merged into one team because many of their players were fighting in World War 2. Hence, the name "Steagles."

In 1948, the Eagles shut out the Los Angeles Rams 14-0 to win the their first NFL championship. They game was played in blustery conditions in a snow covered field. Steve Van Buren rushed for 98 yards on 26 carries, and he scored the only touchdown of the game.

In 1949, the Eagles blanked the Chicago Cardinals 7-0 to become the first and only team in NFL history to shut out opponents in back to back championship games. The victories were a testament to the strength of the Eagles' defense. Once again, Van Buren lead the offense. Van Buren ran 31 times for 196 yards.

Van Buren was the focal point of the Eagles offense from 1947-1949. Van Buren won the rushing title each of those seasons.

In 1960, Norm Van Brocklin and Chuck Bednarik led the Eagles to a 17-13 championship victory over the Green Bay Packers. Despite the game being played in Franklin Field in Philadelphia, the Eagles were underdogs. The Eagles trailed 13-10 late in the game before Ted Dean scored on a 5 yard run in the 4th quarter. The Packers drove the ball deep into Eagles territory. However, Bednarik tackled Packers' receiver Jim Taylor at the 10 yard line to end the game.

Bednarik's tough play on defense and offense exemplified the grit and determination of the Eagles' 1960 championship. Bednarik may be the most important player in the franchise's history. Bednarik played both center and linebacker.

The Eagles made it to Super Bowl 13 against the Oakland Raiders. Quarterback Ron Jaworski, wide receiver Harold Charmichael and running back Wilbert Montgomery lead a good Eagles offense. The Eagles were coached by Dick Vermiel. The Eagles were a formidable team, but they lost to the Raiders 20-7.

Last season, in Super Bowl LII, the Eagles defeated the Patriots 41-33 for the Eagles' first ever Super Bowl. The game was played in Feburary 4th, 2018 at U.S Bank Stadium in Minnesota before 67,612 fans. The Patriots were favored in the game.

In the first quarter, Eagles kicker Jake Elliot kicked a field goal to give Philadelphia a 3-0 lead. New England tied the game when kicker Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 26 yard field goal. With the score tied 3-3, quarterback Nick Foles threw a 34 yard touchdown pass to Alshon Jeffrey to make the score 9-3. The extra point was missed.

In the second quarter, running back LaGarrette Blount ran 21 yards for a touchdown to give the Eagles a 15-3 lead. The Eagles tried a two point conversion that failed. The Patriots came back with a 45 yard field goal by Gostkowski to make the score 15-6. Later, running back James White scored on a 26 yard touchdown run to make the score 15-12. Gostkowski missed the extra point. Late in the second quarter, the Eagles tried a trick play. with the ball at New England's one yard line, running back Trey Burton took a pitch from Foles who ran ran out for a pass. Then, Burton threw a touchdown pass to Foles, and the Eagles had a 22-12 lead after Elliot's extra point.

In the third quarter, Rob Gronkowski caught a 5 yard touchdown pass from Tom Brady. After Gronkowski's extra point, the Eagles lead 22-19. Later, Corey Clement caught a 22 yard touchdown pass from Foles to make the score 29-19 after Elliot's extra point. The Patriots came back when Brady threw a 26 yard touchdown pass to Chris Hogan. Gostkowski added the extra point, and the Patriots narrowed the score to 29-26.

In the fourth quarter, Elliot kicked a 42 yard field goal to make the score 32-26. The Patriots came back and scored 33 seconds later when Gronkowski caught a four yard touchdown pass from Brady. After Gostkowski's extra point, the Patriots had their first lead of the game at 33-32.
Seven minutes later, the Eagles would go ahead for good when Zack Ertz caught a 11 yard touchdown pass from Foles. The two point conversion was no good. Philadelphia lead 38-33. With 1:05 remaining in the game, Elliot kicked a 46 yard field goal to close out the scoring. The Philadelphia Eagles had defeated the New England Patriots 41-33 in Super Bowl LII. For the first time in their history, the Philadelphia Eagles were Super Bowl champions.

9. Cleveland Browns



The Cleveland Browns have not had much success lately. The team has been mired in mediocrity for a long time. Not since the late 1980's have the Browns consistently fielded a competitive team. The loyal fans of Cleveland remain undaunted. They remember the glory years and hope for a brighter football future. Despite their recent struggles, the Browns are one of the 10 most successful franchises in the history of the NFL.

The Browns have won 8 league championships. They won four in the AAFC (1946,1947,1948,1949). They also won four NFL championships in 1950, 1954, 1955, 1964. They made the playoffs 28 times, and they won 12 division championships and 11 conference championships. The Browns have a proud history of success that they are trying to recapture.

24 members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame have played for the Browns. 16 of those players spent the most important part of their careers with the Browns. Otto Graham, Marion Motley, Jim Brown, Lou Grozza and Ozzie Newsome and Joe Thomas are among their most important players.

Graham joined the Browns in 1946 after serving in the United States Navy. Graham lead the Browns to four straight AAFC championships between 1946-1949. He won the MVP award in 1947.

In 1950, Graham lead the Browns to a NFL championship. The Browns defeated the Los Angeles Rams 30-28. In the victory over the Rams, Graham had 99 yards rushing and 298 yards passing. In 1951, Graham won the NFL MVP award and lead the Browns to a rematch against the Rams in the championship game. The Rams won the rematch 24-17.

Graham has the highest ever winning percentage for a quarterback. He averaged 9 yards per pass attempt, which is the best in the history of the league. Additionally, Graham never missed a game.

Motley, in a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, rushed for 188 yards on 11 carries. In 1950, Motley lead the league in rushing with 810 yards. Motley played 8 years with the Browns.

Brown played 9 years for the Browns. He finished with 12,312 rushing yards for his career, which was the most ever for a running back at the time. He also rushed for 1,863 yards, which was a record for single season. He lead the NFL in all purpose yards 5 seasons. He was voted to the Pro Bowl all nine seasons of his career. Brown finished with 100 rushing touchdowns for his career. Many consider Brown to be the best player in the history of the Cleveland Browns.

Groza was one of the original Browns in 1946. Groza was primarily a place kicker for Cleveland. Brown played in 216 games for Cleveland. He made 234 field goals and 641 extra points. He made nearly 58% of his field goals and 98% of his extra points. He was voted MVP by the Sporting News in 1954.

Newsome was one of the best tight ends in the history of the NFL. He played for Cleveland from 1978-1990. He finished his career with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards. He caught 47 touchdowns during his career.

Thomas was the third pick in the first round of the 2007 NFL draft. He made the Pro Bowl 10 times. Thomas played 10,363 consecutive snaps. He has been one of the best offensive linemen of the past 20 years. Thomas has arguably been the best player on the Browns since he was drafted onto the team. He retired after the 2017 season.

Despite winning 8 league championships,including 4 NFL titles, the Browns have never advanced to the Super Bowl. However, they made it to the AFC championship game in 1986, 1987 and 1989. The Browns lost to the Denver Broncos all three times.

Recently, the team has strugggled. They have been the worst team in the NFL for the past two seasons. However, they are tying to rebuild around younger players and are hoping that rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield can lead a football renaissance in Cleveland.

8. Washington Redskins



The Washington Redskins have won 5 NFL championships, including 3 Super Bowls. They won championships in 1937, 1942, 1982, 1987 and in 1991. They have won 5 conference championships and 14 division titles. Overall, the Redskins have made the playoffs 24 times.

The Redskins beat the Chicago Bears 28-21 in 1937 for their first championship. Quarterback Sammy Baugh threw for 335 yards and 3 touchdowns in the game.

In the 1940 NFL championship game, the Redskins were defeated 73-0 by the Chicago Bears in the most lopsided game in NFL history. The Redskins were unable to stop the Bears' use of the "T formation."

In 1942, the Redskins avenged the loss to the Bears by beating Chicago 14-6. The Redskins' defense did not give up a touchdown. The Bears lone score was a fumble return for a touchdown.

After the 1982 season, the Redskins defeated the Miami Dolphins 27-17 in Super Bowl XVII. Running back John Riggins lead the Redskins by rushing for 166 yards on 38 carries. Quarterback Joe Theisman added two touchdown passes.

After the 1983 season, the Redskins lost to the Los Angeles Raiders 38-9 in Super Bowl XVIII. Raiders' running back Marcus Allen rushed for 191 yards on 20 carries with 2 touchdowns. Allen had a 74 yard touchdown run that put the game away late in the third quarter. It's one of the best runs in the history of the Super Bowl.

After the 1987 season, the Redskins defeated the Denver Broncos 42-10 In Super Bowl XXII. Washington's Doug Williams became the first African American quarterback to start an NFL championship game. The Redskins scored 35 points in the second quarter. Running back Timmy Smith ran for 204 yards, and Williams passed for 304 yards and 4 touchdowns.

After the 1991 season, the Redskins defeated the Buffalo Bills 37-24 in Super Bowl XXVI. The Bills turned the ball over 7 times. Mark Rypien, the Redskins' quarterback, was the game's MVP. Rypien threw for 292 yards and 2 touchdowns.

7. San Francisco 49ers



The San Francisco 49ers have won 5 Super Bowl championships, 6 Conference titles, and 19 division championships. The 49ers have been in the playoffs 26 times.

After the 1981 season, the 49ers defeated the Cincinanati Bengals 26-21 in Super Bowl XVI. Quarterback Joe Montana threw for a touchdown down and rain for another. The game featured an important goal line stand by the 49ers in the third quarter. The Bengals had the ball first and goal from the 49er 3 yard line. The 49ers stopped the Bengals on four consecutive plays and took over on downs.

After the 1984 season, the 49ers defeated the Miami Dolphins 38-16 to win Super Bowl XIX. Montana, the game's MVP, threw for 331 yards and 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. The 49ers gained 537 yards on offense, while they limited the Dolphins to 314 yards. The Dolphins could only muster 25 rushing yards in support of talented quarterback Dan Marino.

After wide receiver Jerry Rice arrived in 1985, the 49ers would become an even better passing team. Rice would have 35 touchdown receptions from Montana for his career. Additionally, Rice would go onto catch 85 touchdown passes from quarterback Steve Young. Both Montana and Young were able to develop a passing chemistry with the talented receiver.

Super Bowl XXIII, after the 1988 season, would feature a rematch between the 49ers and the Bengals. Once again the 49ers would emerge victorious. They defeated the Bengals 20-16. The game featured a fourth quarter winning drive by the 49ers. Montana cemented his legacy as a cool and calm quarterback during the drive. It may be Montana's most memorable moment as a 49er.

The 11 play drive began at San Francisco's 8 yard line. In order to calm his teammates, Montana pointed to actor John Candy who was in the crowd. Montana threw passes in the middle of the field and to the sidelines to keep the Bengals guessing. When the Bengals expected him to throw to the sidelines, he threw to the middle of the field. Likewise, when the Bengals expected him to throw over the middle, he threw to the sidelines. Montana took what he defense gave him and lead a masterful drive. Montana threw a 10 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver John Taylor. Rice was the game's MVP.

After the 1989 season, the 49ers beat the Denver Bronco's 55-10 in the most lopsided Super Bowl in the history of the NFL. With the victory, the 49ers had won back to back championships. The Bronco's did not look like they belonged on the same field as the 49ers. The game was a rout early on. The 49ers lead the Bronco's 27-3 at halftime.

In the early to mid 1990's the Dallas Cowboys and the 49ers played in three straight NFC championship games. The Cowboys won the first two. However, the 49ers won the third 38-28 after the 1994 season. So, the 49ers were headed to their 5th Super Bowl appearance. They would try to become the first team to win 5 Super Bowls. Now, Young was their quarterback, with Montana having left to go to the Kansas City Chiefs.

In Super Bowl XXIX, the 49ers defeated the San Diego Chargers 49-26. Young was the game's MVP as he threw for 325 yards and 6 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. The 49ers dominated the Chargers, and Young proved that he could lead a team to a Super Bowl championship. In the post game locker room, Young pretended to remove a proverbial monkey off of his back.

After the 2012 season, the 49ers played in Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens. The 49ers trailed 21-3 late in the second quarter. The Ravens defense played well in the first half and did not allow the 49ers to score a touchdown. On the final play of the first half, San Francisco kicked a field goal to make it 21-6. The Ravens went ahead in the third quarter 28-6. Then the 49ers scored 17 unanswered points to close out the fourth quarter down 28-23. The Ravens won the game 34-31. It was the first time that the 49ers had ever lost a Super Bowl.

The 49ers have struggled since 2015. They have been trying to rebuild their team. Now, with head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Jimmy Garappolo, they are trying to get back to the playoffs.

6. New England Patriots



The New England Patriots have made it to 8 Super Bowls in the last 15 years. They have won 5 of those Super Bowls. This is a strong accomplishment in the salary cap era. Due to cap restraints, it is difficult for teams to keep their best players. It is nearly impossible for teams to keep every free agent that they would like to keep. So, every year teams lose some of their best players and must replace them with new players. It is difficult for teams to integrate new players into their offensive and defensive schemes. However, the Patriots have been better at this than any other team.

No matter who they lose to free agency, New England can replace them and continue to win. The continuity that owner Bob Kraft, coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady have provided has been remarkable. Kraft supports Belichick's personnel decisions and has developed a strong rapport with Brady. Kraft allows the Patriots' front office to do it's job. He does not interfere with the front office. His trust in Belichick has been rewarded, and it has produced excellence at a time when most NFL franchises struggle to sustain success.

Throughout their history, the Patriots have won 5 Super Bowl championships and 10 conference championships. They have won 20 division championships and made the playoffs 25 times. However, the last 15 years have been the most impressive part of their history. Prior to the last 15 years, the Patriots were not considered an elite franchise. The last 15 years have been arguably the most impressive 15 years that any team in NFL history has ever had.

The Patriots first made the Super Bowl after the 1985 season. In Super Bowl XX to the Chicago Bears 46-10. The Patriots made the Super Bowl as a wild card and were heavy underdogs against the defensively dominant Bears. The Bears held the Patriots to 7 rushing yards and 177 passing yards. The Patriots took a 3-0 lead, but never lead again after the Bears tied the score at 3. The Patriots were able to score a touchdown in the 4th quarter. However, this was one of the most lopsided scores in Super Bowl history.

After the 1996 season, the Patriots faced the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XXXI. The Packers lead 10-0 early, but the Patriots scored two touchdowns to take the lead 14-10 after the first quarter.

After the 2001 season, the Patriots met the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI. This was the first Super Bowl for Brady and Belichick. Brady had replaced Drew Bledsoe who had been injured earlier in the season. Brady did a good job of replacing Bledsoe during the season. Brady lead the Patriots to the AFC conference championship game, but suffered a sprained ankle during the game. Bledsoe replaced Brady and lead New England to the victory. Despite, Bledsoe's strong play in the conference championship game, Belichick went back to Brady for the Super Bowl. At the end of the season, Bledsoe would be traded to the Buffalo Bills.

New England lead St. Louis 17-3 in the third quarter, when the Rams scored 14 points to tie the game. With 1:30 left in regulation, Brady and the Patriots took over in their own territory. After a series of completed passes, the Patriots got into field goal range. With seven seconds left in the game, Adam Vinatieri made a 48 yard field goal to win the game for the Patriots. It was the first Super Bowl win for the Patriots.

After the 2003 season, the Patriots played the Rams in Super Bowl XXXVIII. They faced the Carolina Panthers. It was the first Super Bowl appearance for the Panthers. With the score tied at 29, with 1:04 left to play in regulation, Vinatieri, once again came through. Vinatieri kicked a 41 yard game winning field goal. Jake Delhomme of the Panthers threw for 323 yards with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions in the defeat. Brady, the game's MVP, threw for 354 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception in the victory. The Patriots had their second Super Bowl championship.

Following the 2004 season, the Patriots played the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX. The Patriots defeated the Eagles 24-21 to win their third Super Bowl championship and their second in a row. In defeat, Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb threw for 357 yards with 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. In victory, Brady threw for 236 yards and 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. Wide receiver, Deion Branch was the game's MVP.

In 2007, the Patriots became the first and only team to finish 16-0. The Patriots defeated Jacksonville 31-20 in the playoffs and beat San Diego 21-12 in the AFC title game. The Patriots faced the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII.

In Super Bowl XLII, both defenses played played well for the first three quarters. After 3 quarters, the Patriots lead 7-3. In the 4 th quarter, Giants quarterback Eli Manning threw two touchdown passes that helped the Patriots defeat the Patriots 17-14. The Giants prevented the Patriots from finishing with a perfect season.

After the 2011 season, the Patriots once again faced the Giants. In Super Bowl XLVII, the Giants went ahead early 9-0 after a sesfety and a touchdown. Then New England scorned 17 unanswered points to go ahead 17-9. However, the Giants scored the final 12 points to win 21-17. Once again, the Giants defeated the Patriots in the Super Bowl.

After the 2014 season, the Patriots played the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX. Both teams played well defensively in the first quarter. Neither offense was able to score. Early in the second quarter, Brady threw a 11 yard touchdown pass to Brandon Lafell to give the Patriots a 7-0 lead. Later, Marshawn Lynch scored a touchdown to tie the game at 7-7.

In the second half, Seattle went ahead 17-14 for their first lead of the game. Seattle quarterback threw a touchdown pass to Doug Baldwin to extend Seattle's lead to 24-14. However, Brady threw two touchdown passes in the final 8 minutes to give the Patriots the lead 28-24. With 26 seconds left in the game, Seattle'S Russell Wilson was intercepted by New England's Malcom Butler to preserve New England's victory.

After the 2016 season, the Patriots played the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. In the first quarter, the defenses played well and neither team was able to score. However, the Falcons dominated the second quarter. Davonte Freeman scored on a 5 yard run and Matt Ryan threw a touchdown pass to Austin Hooper to give the Falcons a 14-0 lead. Later on, Brady's pass was intercepted by Robert Alford and returned for a touchdown. The Falcons lead the Patriots 21-0. No team had ever overcome a 21 point deficit in the Super Bowl. Towards the end of the first half, the Patriots kicked a field goal to make the score 21-3.

Early in the second half, Brady threw a touchdown pass to Tevin Coleman to give the Falcons a 28-3 lead. The lead seemed insurmountable even for Tom Brady who had lead comebacks in the past. Then, the Patriots scored on a touchdown pass from Brady to running back James White to make the score 28-9. New England missed the extra point. After a field goal, and two touchdown passes by Brady, the score was tied at 28-28. Then in overtime, Brady lead the Patriots down the field. White scored on a two yard touchdown run to win the game for the Patriots in over time 34-28. It was the first time that a Super Bowl had been decided in overtime.

The Patriots victory in Super Bowl LI was a remarkable comeback. It was one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history. It added to the legacy of Brady and the Patriots.

After the 2017 season, the Patriots advanced to Super Bowl LII. They faced the Philadelphia Eagles. In the first quarter, the teams traded field goals. Later in the first quarter, Eagles' quarterback Nick Foles completed a touchdown pass to Alston Jeffrey. The kick missed wide right, and the Eagles lead 9-3. La Garrett Blount scored on a 32 yard touchdown run to give the Eagles a 15-3 lead as the extra point was missed. The Patriots scored a field goal and a touchdown before Foles scored on a one yard touchdown run to make the score 22-12 Philadelphia at the half.

In the third quarter, the Patriots scored two touchdowns while the Eagles scored one touchdown. The Eagles lead 34-29 after three quarters. Brady threw a touchdown pass to tight end Rob Gronkowski to give the Patriots a 33-32 lead. However, the Eagles would score a touchdown and field goal to close out the scoring for the game. The Eagles won Super Bowl LII 41-33. After 8 Super Bowl appearances during the Kraft/Belichick/Brady era, the Patriots had 5 wins and 3 losses.

Due to the salary cap, we will probably never see a team quite as successful as the New England Patriots have been during the last 15 years. They have become the most consistent franchise in the NFL today.

5. Dallas Cowboys



The Dallas Cowboys have won 5 Super Bowl championships, 10 conference championships, 22 division championships and had 32 playoff appearances. Additionally, they had 20 straight winning seasons from 1966-1985. They also made the playoffs 18 of those 20 seasons.

The Cowboys played the Green Bay Packers at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas for the 1966 NFL championship game. The teams both scored two touchdowns in the first quarter to make the score 14-14. The Packers lead at the half 21-17. Green Bay quarterback Bart Starr threw a touchdown pass to Boyd Dowler to give Green Bay the lead 28-20. Green Bay went ahead 34-20 in the 4th quarter, and Dallas scored a touchdown later to make it 34-27. Towards the end of the game, Dallas quarterback Don Meredith was intercepted in the end zone by the Packers to preserve the victory for Green Bay.

The Cowboys once again played the Packers in the NFL championship game the following season in a game that became known as the "Ice Bowl" because of it's cold conditions. The Packers took a first quarter lead 14-0. Early on, the Packers adjusted to the cold conditions better than the Cowboys did. Both teams struggled to get traction on the frozen field, but the Packers played better in the early going.

However, Dallas soon adjusted and came back. The Cowboys shut out the Packers in the second and third quarters. The Cowboys scored 10 points in the second quarter to close the game to 14-10. After a scoreless third quarter, the Cowboys scored on the first play of the fourth quarter when running back Dan Reeves threw a touchdown pass to a Cowboy receiver. The Cowboys had their first lead of the game 17-14.

Both teams struggled to move the ball in the 4th quarter. With 4:50 left in the game, the Packers took over. Starr lead the Packers on one of the most famous drives in NFL history, which culminated in a quarterback sneak by Starr which gave the Packers a 21-17 victory over the Cowboys.

The Cowboys advanced to Super Bowl V after the 1970 season. This was the first Super Bowl for the Cowboys. The game featured a lot of turnovers. The Colts turned the ball over 7 times, while the Cowboys turned it over 4 times. The Cowboys lead 6-0 early in the second quarter. At the half, Dallas lead 13-6. Both teams failed to score in the third quarter. The Colts scored 10 points in the 4th quarter, as they shut out Dallas for the second half. Jim O'Brien kicked a field goal at the end of regulation to give the Colts a 16-13 win.

The Cowboys were known as "next year's champions" because they often lost in the playoffs and were unable to win a championship. However, that would change soon.

After the 1971 season, the Cowboys played the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI. After the first quarter, Dallas lead Miami 3-0. The Cowboys added a touchdown to go up 10-0. Miami kicked a field goal towards the end of the second quarter to make the score 10-3. In the third quarter, Dallas' Duane Thomas scored on a 3 yard touchdown run to make the score 17-3. In the 4th quarter, Dallas scored when quarterback Roger Staubach threw a 7 yard touchdown pass to Mike Ditka to close out the scoring. The Dallas Cowboys had finally become champions. They defeated the Miami Dolphins 24-3 to win Super Bowl VI.

After the 1975 season, the Cowboys would play the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl X. In the first quarter, Staubach threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Drew Pearson to give Dallas a 7-0 lead. Later in the quarter, Steeler quarterback Terry Bradshaw threw a 7 yard touchdown pass to Randy Grossman to tie the score at 7-7. In the second quarter, Dallas' Tony Fritsch kicked a field goal to give Dallas a 10-7 lead. The Cowboys shut out Pittsburgh in the second and third quarters. In the 4th quarter, Pittsburgh scored on two field goals and a touchdown pass from Bradshaw to wide receiver Lynn Swann. Towards the end of the 4th quarter, Staubach threw a touchdown pass to Percy Howard to make the score 21-17. The Cowboys had a chance to win the game at the end, however, on the final play of the game Staubach was intercepted in the Steelers' end zone. Pittsburgh won Super Bowl X, 21-17.

After the 1977 season, the Cowboys played the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XII. The Broncos were known as the "Orange Crush" because of their good defense. The Cowboys' strong defense was known as the "doomsday defense."

The Cowboys opened the scoring when running back Tony Dorsett scored on a 3 yard run. Dallas added a field goal to make the score 10-0. The Cowboys added another field goal to go ahead 13-0 at the half. So, the Cowboys had shut out the Broncos in the first half. In the third quarter, the Broncos kicked a field goal to make the score 13-3. Later in the third quarter, Staubach threw a 45 yard touchdown pass to Butch Johnson to give the Cowboys a 20-3 lead. Less than a minute later, Denver's Rob Lytle scored on a one yard touchdown run to make the score 20-10. The Cowboys put the game away with 7:04 left in the game when running back Robert Newhouse threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Golden Richards to close out the scoring. The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Denver Broncos 27-10 in Super Bowl X.

After the 1978 season, the Cowboys and Steelers played in Super Bowl XIII. The winner of this game would probably be known as the team of the 1970's. It was a rematch of Super Bowl X, which had been considered one of the best Super Bowls. Super Bowl XII would also be a good game.

In the first quarter, the Steelers recovered a fumble by the Cowboys who were attempting a reverse. Bradshaw threw a 28 yard touchdown pass to John Stallworth to give the Steelers a 7-0 lead. After the Cowboys recovered a Steeler fumble, Staubach threw a 39 yard touchdown pass to Tony Hill to even the score at 7-7. In the second quarter, linebacker Mike Hegman recovered a Steeler fumble and ran it in for a 37 yard touchdown. Dallas had it's first lead of the game, 14-7. Then Bradshaw threw a 75 yard touchdown pass to John Stallworth and a 7 yard touchdown pass to Rocky Bleier to give the Steelers a 21-14 lead at the half.

In the third quarter, the Cowboys kicked a field goal to make the score 21-17. Dallas shut out Pittsburgh in the third quarter. However, Pittsburgh would score two touchdowns in the 4th quarter to take command of the game. Steelers' running back Franco Harris scored on a 22 yard run , and Bradshaw threw a 18 yard touchdown pass to Swann to make the score 35-17. Towards the end of the 4th quarter, the Cowboys scored two touchdowns in an attempt to get back in the game. Staubach found Billy Joe Dupree for a 7 yard touchdown pass and threw a 4 yard touchdown pass to Butch Johnson. An onside kick failed, and the Pittsburgh Steelers held on for the victory. The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Dallas Cowboys 35-31 in Super Bowl XIII.

In the early 1980's, the Cowboys continued to win. They advanced to the NFC championship game three straight seasons. However, they lost all three games. After the 1980 season, Dallas lost to Philadelphia 20-7 in the NFC championship game. After the 1981 season the Cowboys lost to the 49ers 28-27 for the right to go to the Super Bowl. After the 1982 season, Dallas lost to Washington 31-17 in the NFC championship contest. Once again, the Cowboys were in the thick of things, but in all three situations the Cowboys fell short.

Between 1983 and 1989, the Cowboys were an average team, but they started to rebuild when Jimmy Johnson took over in 1989. By his fourth year, Johnson had the Cowboys in the Super Bowl.

After the 1992 season, the Cowboys played the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVII. Dallas' quarterback Troy Aikman three for 273 yards and 4 touchdowns. Running back Emmitt Smith ran for 108 yards and one touchdown. The Bills committed 9 turnovers. The Cowboys recovered two fumbles for touchdowns. In Super Bowl XXVII, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Buffalo Bills 52-17. Aikman was named the game's MVP. It was the third Super Bowl championship for the Cowboys.

After the 1993 season, the Bills and the Cowboys met again in the Super Bowl. The Bills lead the Cowboys 13-6 at halftime. However, the Dallas defense shut out Buffalo the rest of the game. Aikman threw for 207 yards and Smith ran for 132 yards and two touchdowns. Smith was the game's MVP. In Super Bowl XXVIII, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Buffalo Bills 30-13 for the team's second straight Super Bowl title. It was the fourth Super Bowl championship for Dallas.

After the 1994 season, the Cowboys lost the NFC championship game to 49ers. There would be no third consecutive Super Bowl championship. However, after the 1995 season, the Cowboys made it to Super Bowl XXX. They would play against the Steelers, their former rival from the 1970's.

In the first quarter, the Cowboys went ahead 10-0 after a field goal by Chris Boniol and a touchdown pass from Aikman to tight end Jay Novacek. Boniol would kick another field goal in the second quarter. The Steelers scored on a touchdown pass from Neil O'Donnell to wide receiver Yancey Thigpin. At the end of the first half, the score was Dallas 13 Pittsburgh 7.

In the third quarter, Smith scored on a touchdown run to give the Cowboys a 20-7 lead. The Steelers' Norm Johnson kicked a field goal to make it 20-10. With 6:36 left in the game, Bam Morris scored for Pittsburgh to make it 20-17. The Cowboys' corner back Larry Brown intercepted two of Neil O'Donnell's passes to stop two Steeler drives. Brown was the game's MVP. The Cowboys closed out the scoring when Smith ran for a touchdown to make it 27-17. In Super Bowl XXX, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-17. The Cowboys had won three Super Bowls in four years. No other team in the history of the NFL has done that. This was the Cowboys' 5th Super Bowl title in 8 appearances.

Since their Super Bowl XXX championship, the Cowboys have been inconsistent. They have won few playoff games and not made it back to the Super Bowl. However, they have improved their team in recent years.

The Dallas Cowboys have made an impact on the history of the NFL. The organization was a model of consistency from 1965 through the mid 1980's. After, several difficult seasons, the Cowboys rebounded to win 3 Super Bowls in the early to mid 1990's.

The Cowboys have become one of the most recognizable teams in American professional sports. Even casual sports fans have heard of the Dallas Cowboys. Since the team made it's debut in 1960, people have been interested in the team. The Cowboys are the most valuable NFL franchise and one of the most talked about teams in the NFL.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers



The Pittsburgh Steelers were founded in 1933. The Steelers have won 6 Super Bowls, 8 conference championships and 23 division titles. They have made the playoffs 31 times.

Since 1969, the Steelees have had only three head coaches - Chuck Noll, Bill Cowher and Mike Tomlin. The Steelers have been a model of consistency, continuity and stability. All three coaches have won Super Bowls. Noll is a hall of farmer, Cowher may be in the hall of fame one day and Tomlin has the best winning percentage of the three. The Steelers have chosen good head coaches for the last 49 years.

After the 1974 season, the Steelers played the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IX.

In Super Bowl IX, both defenses played well in the first quarter. Both offenses were unable to score. Early in the second quarter, Viking quarterback Fran Tarkenton rocovered a Viking fumble in the end zone and was tackled by Pittsburgh's Dwight White for a safety. Pittsburgh lead 2-0. Neither team could score for the rest of the first half.

Minnesotta's Bill Brown fumbled the kick off to begin the second half. Pittsburgh recovered the ball at the Minnesota 30 yard line. Pittsburgh's Franco Harris ran 24 yards to make it first and goal. Eventually, Harris scored on a touchdown run to make it 9-0. Neither team scored the rest of the third quarter. Pittsburgh had shut out Minnesota for three quarters.

In the 4th quarter, Minnesota blocked a Pittsburgh punt and recovered it in the end zone. Minesotta's Fred Cox missed the extra point, but the gap was closed to 9-6. Despite poor offensive play, the Vikings had a chance to win the game. However, the Steelers would score on a 4 yard touchdown pass from Bradshaw to Larry Brown to close out the scoring. In Super Bowl IX, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Minnesota Vikings 16-6.

As previously stated, after the 1975 season, the Steelers defeated the Cowboys 21-17 in Super Bowl X. They would also defeat the Cowboys three years later in Super Bowl XIII, 35-31.

After the 1979 season, the Steelers played the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl XIV. In the first quarter, Pittsburgh scored on a field goal to take the lead. Los Angeles' running back Cullen Bryant scored on a touchdown run to give the Rams the lead 7-3. Early in the second quarter, Pittsburgh scored on a one yard run by Franco Harris to give the Steelers a 10-7 lead. The Rams' Frank Corral kicked a field goal to tie the game at 10-10. Corral later added another field goal to give the Rams a 13-10 lead at the half.

Early in the second half, Bradshaw threw a 47 yard touchdown pass to John Stallworth to give the Steelers a 17-13 lead. The Rams Lawrence McCutcheon threw a 24 yard touchdown pass to Ron Smith which gave the Rams a 19-17 lead. Corral missed the extra point. For the first time in their appearances in the Super Bowls, the Steelers trailed entering the fourth quarter. However, on a 3rd and 8 play, Bradshaw threw a 73 yard touchdown pass to Stallworth to give Pittsburgh a 24-19 lead. Then later in the fourth quarter, Harris scored on a one yard run to make it 31-19. The Steelers had won their fourth Super Bowl in the 1970's. They had firmly established themselves as the team of the decade.

16 years later, after the 1995 season, the Steelers lost to the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl XXX. This was the third time that the Steelers and the Cowboys played in the Super Bowl. The Cowboys won 27-17. It was the first time that the Steelers lost in the Super Bowl.

10 years later, after the 2005 season, the Steelers played the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XL. In the first quarter, both defenses played well. Seattle lead 3-0 after the first quarter. Pittsburgh did not have one first down on offense. Late in the second quarter, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger scored on a one yard run to give the Steelers a 7-3 halftime lead.

Early in the second half, Pittsburgh running back Willie Parker scored on a 75 yard touchdown run. This gave Pittsburgh a 14-3 lead. Later in the third quarter, Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck threw a 16 yard touchdown pass to Jeramy Stevens to close the game to 14-10. In the fourth quarter, Pittsburgh scored when Roethlisberger gave the ball to Antwan Randle El who threw a 43 yard touchdown pass to Hines Ward to give Pittsburgh a 21-10 lead. The Steelers held on for their fifth Super Bowl title.

After the 2008 season, the Steelers played the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII. Both defenses played well in the first quarter. The Steelers help the Cardinals scoreless in the first quarter. Jeff Reed kicked a field goal for Pittsburgh which gave the Steelers a 3-0 lead after the first quarter. Early in the second quarter, Pittsburgh running back Gary Russell scored on a one yard run to give the Steelers a 10-0 lead. The Cardinals scored when Kurt Warner completed a one yard touchdown pass to Ben Patrick which made the score 10-7. On the final play of the first half, Warner was intercepted by linebacker James Harrison who ran it 100 yards for a touchdown to give the Steelers a 17-7 lead at the half. Harrison's play at the time was the longest touchdown in Super Bowl history. It was one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history and gave Pittsburgh momentum entering halftime.

In the third quarter, Reed kicked a field goal to give Pittsburgh a 20-7 lead. This was the only scoring in the third quarter, as both defenses played well. In the fourth quarter, Warner threw a touchdown pass to Larry Fitzgerald to make score 20-14 after the extra point. Later the Cardinals scored a safety when a Pittsburgh offensive lineman was called for holding in the end zone. Later, Warner threw a 64 yard touchdown to Fitzgerald to give the Cardinals their fist lead of the game 23-20. However, with 23 seconds left in the game, Roethlisberger threw a 6 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Holmes to give the Steelers a 27-23 lead. The Cardinals got the ball to the Steelers 44 yard line, but with 15 seconds left, Warner fumbled to end the game.

So, in the Super Bowl era there has been no team better than the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have won 6 Super Bowl championships in 8 appearances. The franchise is known for their "steel curtain defense" of the 1970's and their consistency as an organization. The people of Pittsburgh are justifiably proud of the Steelers and their many accomplishments.


3. New York Giants



It's impossible to imagine the NFL without the New York Giants. The Giants, who began playing in the NFL in 1925, are one of the oldest and proudest franchises. Sometimes referred to as "Big Blue", the Giants have earned the respect of fans throughout the NFL. They have made their fans proud and represented the New York metropolitan area with distinction and class.

The Giants have won 8 NFL championships, including 4 Super Bowl titles. They have won 11 conference championships and 16 division titles. They have made the playoffs 32 times.

The Giants won their first NFL championship after the 1927 season, their third season in the NFL. In 1927, the Giants finished 11-1-1. That year there was no championship game. The Giants won the championship because they had the best record in the NFL that season. The Giants had an excellent defense that year. New York gave up only 20 points in 13 games. The Giants shut out their opponents 20 times during the 1927 season. This is one of the best defensive performances in the history of the NFL.

The Giants won their second championship in 1934. The Giants defeated the Chicago Bears 30-13 at the Polo Grounds in New York city. The Bears were the favorite. The had been undefeated at 13-0, while the Giants were 8-5. The Bears led 10-3 at the half. The field was wet from rain. The Giants players asked the coaches if they could switch from cleats to sneakers. So, the Giants players got sneakers from the basketball players that had been previously used by Manhattan University players. Nine players on the Giants switched to sneakers to gain better traction.

The Bears scored on a field goal to make it 13-3 in the third quarter. However, the Giants outscored the Bears 27-0 in the fourth quarter to win the game 30-13. Many Bears players mentioned afterwards that they noticed the Giants' improved traction after halftime.

In the 1938 NFL championship, the Giants defeated the Green Bay Packers 23-17. The Giants lead the Packers 9-0 after the first quarter. In the second quarter Green Bay scored when Arnie Herber threw a touchdown pass to Carl Mulleneaux to make it 9-7. Ed Danowski threw a touchdown pass to Barnard to make it 16-7. Carl Hinkle scored on a one yard run for Green Bay to make it 16-14. In the fourth quarter, Green Bay scored a field goal to go ahead 17-16. However, the Giants went ahead for good when Hank Soar caught a 23 yard touch down pass from Danowski to make it 23-17. The Giants had won their third NFL championship.

The Giants played the Chicago Bears in the 1956 NFL championship game. After the first quarter, the Giants lead the Bears 13-0. At half time, the Giants lead the Bears 34-7. They added two more touchdowns in the second half to beat the Bears 47-7. Mel Triplett, Alex Webster, Henry Moore, Kyle Rote and Frank Gifford all scored touchdowns for the Giants. The New York Giants had won their fourth NFL championship.

The Giants played the Baltimore Colts in the 1958n NFL championship game. In the first quarter, Pat Summerall kicked a 36 yard field goal to give the Giants a 3-0 lead. In the second quarter, Alan Ameche scored on a 2 yard run and Raymond Berry scored on a 15 yard touchdown pass from Johnny Unitas to give Baltimore a 14-3 lead. In the third quarter Triplett scored on a one yard run to make it 14-10. In the fourth quarter, the Giants went ahead when Gifford caught a 15 yard touchdown pass from Charley Connerly to make it 17-14, Giants. Steve Myhra kicked a field goal for the Colts to tie the game at 17-17. In overtime, Ameche scored on a one yard run to give the Colts the 23-17 win. It was the first time that the Giants had lost in an NFL championship game. Both teams played well in what was one of the best games in NFL history.

After a difficult stretch, head coach Bill Parcells helped the Giants to improve.

After the 1986 season, the Giants made it to their first Super Bowl. They played the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI. In the first quarter, Rich Karlis kicked a 48 yard field goal to give the Broncos the 3-0 lead. The Giants came back when Phil Simms threw a 6 yard touch down pass to Zeke Mowatt. Towards the end of the first quarter, Broncos quarterback John Elway scored on a four yard touchdown run to give the Broncos a 10-7 lead. In the second quarter, both defenses played well. Neither team scored an offensive touchdown. The Giants' George Martin sacked Elway in the end zone for a safety to make the score 10-9.

In the third quarter, Simms threw a touch down pass to tight end Mark Bavaro to give the Giants a 16-10 lead. Then Raul Allegre kicked a field goal to stretch the Giants' lead to 19-10. Later on in the third quarter, Joe Morris scored a running touch down to give the Giants a commanding 26-10 lead.

In the fourth quarter, Simms threw a pass that was intended for Mark Bavaro. Instead, the pass bounced off his hand and into the hands of wide receiver Phil McConkey for a touchdown. The Giants lead 33-10 and were well on their way to their first ever Super Bowl victory. Karlis added a field goal to make the score 33-13. However, the Giants would score another touchdown when running back Ottis Anderson scored a two yard touchdown run. Denver closed out the scoring when Elway threw a 47 yard touchdown pass to Vance Johnson to make it 39-20. The Giants had won their first ever Super Bowl. Coach Bill Parcells was doused with Gatorade by the victorious Giants.

After the 1990 season, the Giants played the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXV. The Bills were the favorite because they had an outstanding offense. In order to counteract the Bills' explosive offense, the Giants tried to take as much time off of the clock during their offensive drives. They did this by running the football.

In the first quarter, the Giants began the scoring when kicker Matt Bahr kicked a 28 yard field goal to give the Giants a three point lead. The Giants took 6:15 off of the clock. The Bills came right back and took just over a minute off of the clock. Scott Norwood of the Bills kicked a 23 yard field goal to tie the game at 3-3. Later Don Smith, the Bills' running back, scored a one yard touchdown run to give the Bills a 10-3 lead.

In the second quarter, Bills' defensive end Bruce Smith sacked Giants' quarterback Jeff Hostetler for a safety to give the Bills a 12-3 lead. Later, Hostetler threw a 14 yard touch down pass to Stephen Baker to make the score 12-10. The half ended with the Giants trailing by 2 points.

In the third quarter, the Giants put together a scoring drive that lasted 9:29. Up until that time, it was the longest scoring drive in Super Bowl history. The scoring drive ended when running back Ottis Anderson scored on a one yard run to give the Giants a 17-12 lead. This was the only scoring of the third quarter.

The Bills scored on the first play of the fourth quarter when running back Thurman Thomas ran 31 yards for a touchdown. The Bills took the lead 19-17. Next the Giants had an offensive drive that lasted 7:32. At the end of the drive, Bahr kicked a field goal which gave the Giants a 20-19 lead. The Giants had once again taken a lot of time off of the clock, which kept Buffalo's outstanding offense off of the field. On the Bills' last possession, Buffalo marched to the Giants 29 yard line with 8 seconds to play. However, Scott Norwood's 47 yard field goal missed wide right, and the Giants won 20-19. The New York Giants had won their second Super Bowl.

After the 2000 season, the Giants advanced to the Super Bowl for the third time. They would play the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV.
The Ravens were known for their outstanding defense during the 2000 season.

In the first quarter, both defenses played well. However, the Ravens scored towards the end of the first quarter, when quarterback Trent Dilfer threw a 38 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Brandon Stokely. After the extra point, the Ravens lead 7-0.

In the second quarter, Ravens' kicker Matt Stover made a 47 yard field goal to give Baltimore a 10-0 lead. The Giants had a scoring opportunity later in the second quarter, but Giants quarterback Kerry Collins was intercepted. The Ravens lead 10-0 at the half.

In the third quarter, Ravens defensive back Duane Starks intercepted a Collins pass and brought it back 49 yards for a touchdown. The Giants Ron Dixon returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a Giants touchdown. The Ravens now lead 17-7. However, the Ravens Jermaine Lewis returned the next kickoff 84 yards for a Ravens touchdown. The Ravens now lead 24-7. Three touchdowns were scored on three consecutive plays in 36 seconds.

In the fourth quarter, Jamal Lewis of the Ravens scored on a 3 yard touchdown run to give the Ravens a 31-7 lead. On the Ravens' next possession, Stover kicked a 34 yard field goal to make the score 34-7. Although the Giants were the NFC champions, the Baltimore Ravens won Super Bowl XXXV.

As stated earlier, the Giants would win two more Super Bowls. The Giants defeated the Patriots in Super Bowls XLII and XLVI. The Giants have now won 4 Super Bowls and played in 5 of them. Their victories over the Patriots have maintained the Giants has one of the most successful franchises in NFL history.

The New York Giants continue to be one of the best run franchises. They have a strong fan base and an excellent history. The Giants continue to be one of the more consistent teams in the NFL.


2. Chicago Bears



The Chicago Bears have won 9 NFL championships including one Super Bowl. They have won 4 conference championships, 18 division titles and they have made 26 playoff appearances. The Bears were one of the NFL original teams. They began play in 1920.

The Bears played in Staley Field in 1919 and 1920. They played in Wrigley Field from 1921 tp 1970. They have played in Soldier Field from 1971 to the present day. For one season, 2002, they played in Memorial Stadium.

George Halas was part owner of the team from 1921 to 1932. He was the principal owner from 1932 to 1983. Virginia Halas McCaskey has been the owner since 1983.

The Bears won their first NFL championship game in 1921 when they were known as the Chicago Staleys. They beat the Buffalo All Americans 10-7. George Halas played wide receiver in the game. While it was billed as a championship game, it was also considered an exhibition game. Back then the regular season was considered more important than the championship game. Buffalo was under the impression that the game would not count in the standings. In Buffalo, New York, the loss became known as the "Curse of the Staleys." It is considered on of the first curses in professional sports.

In 1932, the Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans 9-0 to win their second NFL championship. The game was moved form Wrigley Field to the indoor Chicago Stadium because of the inclement weather. Today, games are rarely moved indoors or postponed because of the weather. Additionally, the field was for his game was only 80 yards as opposed to the normal 100 yards.

In 1933, the Bears defeated the Giants 23-21 in Wrigley Field. The Bears scored the winning touchdown with under two minutes left in regulation. The Giants would gain a measure of revenge the following year, when they would defeat the Bears 30-13 in the 1934 NFL championship game.

The 1940 NFL championship game was memorable for its lopsided score. The Bears defeated the Redskins 73-0 in the most lopsided game in NFL history. Ironically, during the regular season the Redskins had the better record. The Redskins were 9-2, while the Bears were 8-3. The game was broadcast on the Mutual Broadcasting System, which existed between 1934-1999. It was the first ever NFL game to be broadcast throughout the nation.

The Bears dominated the game from beginning to end. The Redskins were unable to stop the Bears use of the ""T Formation." In this formation 3 running backs line up in back of the quarterback in the shape of a "T." The Bears rushed for 381 yards and 7 rushing touchdowns. 6 different players had rushing touchdowns, and 12 different players had at least one rushing attempt. The "T Formation" probably made it difficult for the defense to know what running back would get the ball. In any event, the Bears implementation of the "T Formation" paved the way for their championship win.

In the 1941 NFL championship game, the Bears defeated the Giants 37-9. The game took place two weeks after Pearl Harbor and featured the smallest crowd ever at an NFL championship game. Unfortunately, two players, Young Bussey of the Bears and Jack Lummus of the Giants died in World War II in 1945.

In 1943, the Bears would once again defeat the Redskins in the championship game. Though the score was much closer than the 1940 championship game, the Bears still won 41-21. The Bears held the Redskins to 46 rushing yards and 182 passing yards.

In 1946, the Bears would once again defeat the Giants. At the Polo Grounds, before a record breaking crowd of 58,346 people, the Bears defeated the Giants 24-14. The game was tied at 14 entering the 4th quarter. However, Bears quarterback Sid Luckman scored on a 19 yard run and the Bears added a field goal later. The Bears outscored the Giants in the decisive 4th quarter.

The Bears played the Giants again in the 1963 NFL championship. The game was at Wrigley Field before 45,801 fans. In the first quarter, Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle threw a 14 yard touchdown pass to Frank Gifford. After the extra point, the Giants lead 7-0. After intercepting Tittle, the Bears had the ball at the 6 yard line of the Giants. From there, Bears quarterback Billy Wade scored on a run. At the end of the first quarter, the Bears and the Giants were tied at 7-7. In the second quarter, Don Chandler kicked a field goal to give New York the lead 10-7. That was the score at the end of the first half.

After intercepting Tittle, the Bears scored on a another run by Wade. The Bears lead 14-10. Neither team scored in the 4th quarter. The Bears won the 1963 championship 14-10. George Allen, the Bears defensive coordinator, was given the game ball because of how well Chicago's defense played.

In 1985, the Bears won their first and only Super Bowl. The defeated the New England Patriots 45-10 in Super Bowl XX. The Bears dominated the game much like they dominated the season. They had finished the season with a 15-1 record. Their only loss was on Monday night to a good Miami Dolphins team. During the regular season, the Bears outscored their opponents 456-198. While the defense got a lot of credit that season, it was also the most prolific offensive season in Bears' history.

The Chicago Bears have had an illustrious history. Some of the best players in NFL history have played for the Bears. They are one of the NFL's original teams and have been a big part of the history of the league.

1. Green Bay Packers



The Green Bay Packers are the most successful NFL franchise in history.

The Packers have won 13 NFL championships, including 4 Super Bowls. Green Bay has won 9 conference championships and 18 division titles. The Packers have made the playoffs 32 times.

The Green Bay Packers won three consecutive NFL championships between 1929 and 1931. They won those championships because they had the best record in the NFL those years. The NFL did not introduce a championship game until 1933.

In 1929, the Packers were undefeated. They finished with a 12-0-1 record. The Giants finished in second place with a 13-1-1 record. The Packers beat the Giants that year in the regular season 20-6. This was essentially the championship game of the NFL that season.

In 1930, the Packers finished in first place again with a 10-3-1 record. They scored 234 points and allowed 111 points. The Giants, once again, finished in second place with a 13-4 record.

In 1931, the Packers finished in first place for a third consecutive season with a 12-2 record. This time the Portsmouth Spartans finished in second place with a 11-3 record. The Packers scored 291 points and allowed 87 points.

In 1936, the Packers finished the regular season in first place of the Western Division with a 10-1-1 record. Green Bay played the Boston Redskins in the 1936 NFL championship game. The game was played at the Polo Grounds in New York city before 29,545 fans.

In the first quarter, Don Hutson caught a 48 yard touchdown pass from Arnie Herber. After Ernie Smith's extra point, the Packers lead 7-0. In the second quarter, Pug Rentner scored on a two yard touchdown run. The extra point failed, and Green Bay lead 7-6 at the half. In the third quarter, Milt Gantenbein scored on a 8 yard touchdown pass from Herber. After the extra point, the Packers lead 14-6. Green Bay closed out the scoring when Bob Monnett scored on a two yard run. Paul Engebretsen kicked the extra point to give the Packers a 21-6 win. The Packers had won their fourth NFL championship and their first championship game. The Packers had further established themselves as the NFL's model franchise.

In 1939, the Packers played the Giants in the championship game. The Giants had won the championship the year before and finished with a 9-1-1 record as Eastern division champions. The Packers, champions of the Western Division, finished with a 9-2 record. The game was played at the Dairy Bowl in Wisconsin before 32,379 fans.

In the first quarter, the Packers scored when Milt Gantenbein scored on a 7 yard touchdown pass from Herber. Engebretsen kicked an extra point to make the score 7-0. Both defenses played well in the second quarter and neither team scored.

In the third quarter, Engebretsen kicked a 29 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 10-0 lead. Later in the third quarter, Joe Laws caught a 31 yard pass from Cecil Isbell. After Engbretsen's kick, the Packers lead 17-0. In the fourth quarter, Ernie Smith kicked a 42 yard field goal to make the score 20-0. Ed Jankowski closed out the scoring with a one yard run. Smith made the score 27-0 after his extra point. Green Bay won the 1939 championship 27-0. It was the first ever shut out in an NFL championship game. It was the Packers' 5th NFL championship in 11 years. They continued to dominate the NFL.

In 1944, the Packers once again played the Giants for the NFL championship. The Giants won the Eastern Division with a 8-1-1 record. The Packers won the Western Division with 8-2 record. The game was played in the Polo Grounds in New York city on December 17th, 1944.

In the first half, the Packers shut the Giants out. The Packers scored two touchdowns in the second quarter. Ted Fritsch scored on a one yard run, and Fritsch scored on a 28 yard touchdown pass from Irv Comp. Both extra points were good, and Green Bay lead New York 14-0 at the half.

No one scored in the third quarter. In the 4th quarter, the Giants avoided a shut out by scoring on a one yard touchdown run by Ward Cuff. After the extra point by Ken Strong, the Giants trailed the Packers 14-7. This would turn out to be the final score. The Packers had won their 6th NFL championship.

The Packers lost the 1960 NFL championship game to the Philadelphia Eagles 17-13. The Packers lost despite outgaining the Eagles in yards from scrimmage 401-296. The Packers also had a 22-13 advantage in first downs. However, Hornung missed a field goal in the first quarter and coach Vince Lombardi elected to go for it and missed on fourth down twice instead of kicking field goals. It was the only time the Packers would lose a championship game under Lombardi.

In 1961, the Packers beat the Giants for the NFL championship 37-0. The game was played in Wisconsin during the day on New Year's Eve in 20 degree weather. Paul Hornung lead the way for the Packers as he scored a touchdown, kicked three field goals and kicked three extra points.

In the 1962 NFL championship game, the Packers once again defeated the Giants. However, this time the score was much closer, 16-7. Hornung was injured for this game, but right guard Jerry Kramer filled in as kicker and booted three field goals and one extra point. The Green Bay Packers had been to three straight NFL championship games, and they had won two in a row.

In 1965, the Packers were back in the NFL championship game. They beat the Browns 23-12 behind three field goals by Don Chandler, a rushing touchdown by Hornung and a touchdown pass by Bart Starr. After a two year absence, the Packers were once again champions.

Before the 1966 season, the NFL and AFL merged into one entity. The winner of the AFL and NFL playoffs played each other in the first Super Bowl. The Packers defeated the Chiefs 35-10 to win the first Super Bowl. Max McGee, the star of the day, had 7 receptions for 138 yards and 2 touchdowns- including the first touchdown in Super Bowl history. The Packers had added to their championship legacy with a Super Bowl win.

The Packers played the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl II. The game was played at the Orange Bowl in Miami Florida on January 14th, 1968.

In the first quarter, Don Chandler kicked a 39 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 3-0 lead. This was the only score in the first quarter. In the second quarter, Chandler added to the Packers' lead when he kicked a 20 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 6-0 lead. With 4:35 remaining in the second quarter, Bill Miller scored on a 23 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Daryle Lamonica. After George Blanda's extra point, Oakland had narrowed the score to 13-7. With 22 second remaining in the first half, Chandler kicked his third field goal of the game to give the Packers a 16-7 lead at the end of the first half.

In the third quarter, Donny Anderson scored on a two yard touchdown run. After Chandler's extra point, the Packers lead 23-7. Chandler kicked a 31 yard field goal with 2 seconds left in the third quarter to give Green Bay a 26-7 lead. It was Chandler's fourth field goal of the game. With 9:13 remaining in the game, Miller caught another 23 yard touchdown pass from Lamonica to make it 33-14. This would be the final score. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Oakland Raiders 33-14 to win Super Bowl II. The Packers won the first two Super Bowls in NFL history.

The Packers would go 29 years before they played in another Super Bowl. However, the Packers finally made it to the Super Bowl again after the 1996 season. The Packers played the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI on January 26th, 1997 in the Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.

In the first quarter, the Packers took the lead when quarterback Brett Favre threw a 54 yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Andre Risen. Chris Jacke added the extra point, and Green Bay lead 7-0. Later in the first quarter, Jacke kicked a 37 yard field goal to make it 10-0. Later in the first quarter, New England quarterback Drew Bledsoe threw a 1 yard touchdown pass to Keith Byars. Adam Vinatieri added the extra point to make the score 10-7. With 2:33 remaining in the first quarter, Bledsoe threw a 4 yard touchdown pass to Ben Coates. After Vinatieri's extra point, the Patriots lead 14-10.

Early in the second quarter, Favre threw an 81 yard touchdown pass to Antonio Freeman. Jacke's extra point gave Green Bay a 17-14 lead. With 8:15 remaining in the second quarter, Jacke added a 31 yard field goal to give Green Bay a 20-14 lead. With 1:11 remaining in the first half, Favre scored on a two yard touchdown run. After Jacke's extra point, the Packers lead 27-14.

With 3:27 left in the third quarter, Curtis Martin scored on a 18 yard touchdown run for New England. After Vinatieri's extra point, New England had narrowed the score to 27-21. However, Desmond Howard returned the ensuing kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown. Green Bay successfully converted a two point conversion to make the score 35-21.

Neither team would score in the fourth quarter. Green Bay defeated New England in Super Bowl XXXI, 35-21. It was Green Bay's third Super Bowl championship and their 12th overall NFL title. After 29 years, the Packers had finally become Super Bowl champions again.

The Packers would again make it to the Super Bowl after the 2010 season. They played the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLV on February 6th, 2011 in Cowboys stadium in Arlington, Texas before 103,219 spectators.

In the first quarter, quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Jordy Nelson. Mason Crosby kicked the extra point to give the Packers a 7-0 lead. With 3:20 left in the first quarter, Nick Collins intercepted a pass by Steeler quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and returned it 37 yards for a touchdown. After Crosby's extra point, the Packers lead 14-0.

In the second quarter, Pittsburgh got on the score board when Shaun Suisham kicked a 33 yard field goal to make the score 14-3. With 2:24 left in the first half, Rodgers threw a 21 yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings. Crosby added the extra point, and Green Bay had a 21-3 lead. Pittsburgh came back when Roethlisberger threw a 8 yard touchdown pass to Hines Ward with 39 seconds left in the first half. After Suisham's extra point, the score was 21-10.

In the fourth quarter, Rodgers threw a 8 yard touchdown pass to Jennings. After Crosby's extra point, the Packers had a 28-17 lead. With 7:34 remaining in the game, Mike Wallace caught a 25 yard touchdown pass from Roethlisberger. The Steelers added a two point conversion, and the score was 28-25. With 2:07 left in the game, Crosby kicked a 23 yard field goal to close out the scoring. The Green Bay Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 in Super Bowl XLV. The Packers won their fourth Super Bowl and their 13th NFL title.

With 13 NFL championships, the Green Bay Packers are the most successful franchise in NFL history. Many other teams have had success as well. The Packers and the other teams in the NFL will continue to compete for Super Bowl championships. Lombardi trophies will be added to the legacies of teams in the future and players and teams will make their contribution to the history of the NFL.