NFL CONFIDENCE PICK SHEET WEEK 2 09/17-20-21/2026

  For those of you who are new here. This is how confidence ranking goes, let me explain. If we were playing an office pool,(which we ARE NOT).  The object is to score the most points. To obtain the score YOU rank the teams by how confident you are a team will win its game.  EXAMPLE:  Say this week we have 16 games.  The team you are most confident will win you would assign the number 16 and follow down to the team you are least confident in and assign that number 1.   You add up the TOTAL CORRECT PICKS.. That would be your score.  We use the Monday night (Last game played) as a TIE BREAKER.  The tie is broken by the closest to the total (that is the COMBINED score of the two participating teams) final score, without going over. YOU can adopt the scoring  described above.  Or, the optional method.  A  negative score for missed games.  We will continue to get a positive score for correct predictions.  EXAMPLE:   if you scored     1 pt on the first game and you had 15 pts on the second game and lost you would still have  1 pt. 1.  HOWEVER. with the same scenario new scoring system would result with a –14 score If we were playing this is how my sheet would look;  My pick will be in bold Capital letters.  you can use circling, underlining, or highlighting.  I will show my correct points in Bold I will fill in my picks Thursday.  Until then feel free to: Just copy and paste for your own Fun Pool Use.  Or to see if you can beat me. IF YOU SEE I MADE A MIS-COPY OF THE GAMES AND TIMES FEEL  FREE TO EMAIL ME AND TELL ME I GOOFED. BYES: NONE  TRIVIA TIME:  Which round of the 2000 NFL draft was Tom Brady selected in?                                            Answer below pick sheet  All Times EDT (As You all know EDT is really AST [Atlantic Standard Time .:Politicians just don’t know how to tell the truth. GAME TV VISITOR SCORE HOME SCORE CONFIDENCE RUNNING SCORE THURSDAY 09/17/26 20:20 1 PRIME VIDEO Lions (1–0) 31 BILLS (1–0) 41 9 9/9 SUNDAY 09/20/26 13:00   2 FOX PANTHERS (0–1) 34 @ Falcons (0–1) 3 2 11/11 3 CBS Saints (0–1) 24 @ RAVENS (1–0) 17 14 11/3 4 FOX Vikings (1–0) 9 @ BEARS.1–0) 3 7 11/10 5 CBS Bengals (1–0) 20 @ TEXANS (0–1) 6 3 11/13 6 CBS Steelers (1–0) 3 @ PATRIOTS (0–1) 20 8 19/5 7 FOX PACKERS (0–1) 20 @ Jets (1–0) 17 (ot) 4 23/1 8 CBS Browns (0–1) 23 @ BUCCANEERS (0–1) 19 15 23/16 9 FOX EAGLES (1–0) 24 @ Titans (0–1) 20. 12 35/4 . SUNDAY 09/20/26 16:05 10 CBS Jaguars (1–0) 13 @ BRONCOS (0–1) 20 1 36/3 11 CBS Raiders (1–0) 26 @ CHARGERS (0–1) 14 10 36/13   SUNDAY 09/20/26 16:25 12 FOX SEAHAWKS (1–0) 31 Cardinals (1–0) 7 5 41/8 13 FOX Commanders (0–1) 20 COWBOYS (0–1) 37 6 47/2 14 FOX Dolphins (0–1) 13 49’ERS (1–0) 37 16  63/14 SUNDAY 09/20/26 20:20 15 NBC Colts  (0–1) 30 @ Chiefs (1–0) 33 (OT)  11 74/25 MONDAY 09/21/26 20:15 16 ESPN Giants (1–0) 6 @ RAMS (0–1) 28 13 87/28 64%/21% GAMES  11/5 69%/31% Points Possible 136 Tie Break (Total score last game) 18 Total 34 Points off -16 TRIVIA ANSWER The sixth round Views: 1

The Ultimate Guide to the New York Yankees

  The Ultimate Guide to the New York Yankees:  History, Legends, and Award Winners. Welcome to the Bronx!  If there is one franchise that defines the history, glamour, and sheer winning tradition of Major League Baseball, it is the New York Yankees. With 27 World Series championships and a roster of legendary players that reads like a who’s-who of baseball history, the Yankees are more than just a team—they are an institution. Whether you are a lifelong Bleacher Creature or a new fan looking to learn the lore of pinstripes, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the franchise’s ownership, historic homes, Hall of Fame immortals, and individual award winners. The Stewards of the Franchise: All Yankees Owners  The Yankees have changed hands several times since their inception, but the franchise has always been guided by owners willing to spend big to win big. Here is the complete chronological list of New York Yankees ownership: Frank Farrell & Bill Devery (1903–1914): The duo purchased the franchise (then known as the New York Highlanders) and moved them to New York City. They officially adopted the “Yankees” moniker during this era. Col. Jacob Ruppert & Capt. Tillinghast Huston (1915–1922): Ruppert, a wealthy brewer and politician, bought the team alongside Huston. This era marked the beginning of the Yankees’ dynasty, highlighted by the acquisition of Babe Ruth. Col. Jacob Ruppert (1923–1938): Ruppert bought out Huston’s share to become the sole owner. He oversaw the construction of the original Yankee Stadium and the team’s first dominant championship runs. Ruppert Heirs & Del Webb (1939–1945): Following Ruppert’s death, his estate controlled the team. Real estate developer Del Webb eventually bought a controlling interest in 1945. Dan Topping, Larry MacPhail, & Del Webb (1945–1947): A three-man syndicate purchased the team. After MacPhail’s sudden passing in 1947, his share was absorbed by Topping and Webb. Dan Topping & Del Webb (1947–1964): The duo owned the team during the Mickey Mantle era and the team’s continued dominance in the 1940s and 50s CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) (1964–1973): The television giant purchased the team, an era characterized by corporate ownership, declining performance, and the eventual sale of the franchise . George Steinbrenner (1973–2010): “The Boss” bought the team for $10 million and transformed it into a global sports powerhouse.  Known for his aggressive spending, fiery temper, and relentless pursuit of championships, Steinbrenner is the most iconic owner in franchise history.Yankees  Partnership (2010–Present): Following George’s passing, control of the franchise transitioned to his sons, Hal and Hank Steinbrenner, alongside other family members and partners. Hal Steinbrenner currently serves as the controlling owner and chairman. Cathedrals of Baseball:  All Yankees Home Parks Before they had the “House That Ruth Built,” the Yankees played in several different venues.  Here are all the home parks in franchise history: Hilltop Park (1903–1912): The first true home of the franchise in New York. Located in Washington Heights, it was a wooden structure that eventually fell into disrepair.Polo Grounds (1913–1922): The Yankees shared this iconic, bathtub-shaped stadium with their cross-town rivals, the New York Giants, before the relationship soured and the Yankees were told to find a new home. Yankee Stadium (I) (1923–1973, 1976–2008): The most famous ballpark in baseball history. Built in just 284 days, it hosted 26 World Series championships.  After a massive renovation from 1974–1975, it reopened and served as the team’s home until 2008.Shea Stadium (1974–1975): While the original Yankee Stadium was undergoing its first major renovation, the Yankees temporarily shared this Queens stadium with the New York Mets .Yankee Stadium (II) (2009–Present): Built directly across the street from the original stadium, this modern masterpiece retains the classic architectural feel and facade of the original “House That Ruth Built” while offering state-of-the-art amenities. Immortals in Pinstripes: Hall of Famers Inducted as Yankees. The Yankees have more plaques in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown than any other franchise. Below are the legendary players and managers enshrined with the New York Yankees logo on their caps, alongside their hometowns: The Legends (Players):                                                                                                              Babe Ruth – Baltimore, MD.                                                                                    Lou Gehrig – New York, NY                                                                                                         Joe DiMaggio – Martinez, CA                                                                                                       Mickey Mantle – Spavinaw, OK                                                                                                   Yogi Berra – St. Louis, MO                                                                                                           Whitey Ford –… Continue reading The Ultimate Guide to the New York Yankees

I AM BOSTON: Chapter Seven—the quietest part so far

  Boston continues. 🖤🐾+ The quietest part so.  Less about movement, more about meaning.  The kind of things that are always there but rarely named.  Silence Is Not Empty.  You think silence is the absence of sound.  That is because you listen with your ears.  I listen with everything. Silence is full.  It holds the shape of what should be there.  When something changes—even slightly—it becomes obvious.  A missing insect.  A bird that stops mid-call.  Wind that hesitates instead of flowing.  These are not small things.  They are sentences.  The Space Between Us.  We are not always close.  You inside.  Me outside.  A door between us.  A wall.  A pane of glass.  And yet— We are rarely separate.  You move through your routines, and I move through mine, and somewhere in the middle, those routines overlap just enough to create something steady.  You call it companionship.  I call it alignment. Why I Don’t Always Come When Called Sometimes you call my name.  “Boston.”  You expect movement.  A response.  A return. Sometimes I do.  Sometimes I don’t.  This is not defiance.  It is judgment. If I am needed, I come.  If I am in the middle of something that matters, I finish it first. You may not always understand the difference.   I do. Belonging Without Being Held I belong here.  Not because I am kept.  Because I stay.  There is a difference.  Being owned is a boundary placed from the outside.  Belonging is a boundary chosen from within.  Every time I leave and come back, I am choosing this place again.  That choice matters more than any door, any bowl, any fire.  The Way You Look at Me.  There are moments when you look at me and forget everything else.  You don’t speak. You don’t move.  You just look.  I feel it.  There is weight in that gaze. Not heavy in a bad way—just… full.  You are trying to understand something you cannot quite reach.  Who I am.  What I think.  Why I live the way I do.  I let you look.  I do not explain.  Some things lose meaning when translated.  Why I Sit Near You (But Not Too Close).  When I come inside, sometimes I sit near you—but not touching.  Close enough to share space. Far enough to remain myself.  This is intentional.  Closeness without pressure. Presence without demand. It is a form of respect.   The Sound of Your House at Night Houses speak.  Wood shifts.   Air moves.   Small systems hum and click and settle.  At night, these sounds become clearer.  I learn them.  So when something sounds wrong, I know immediately.  Most of the time, nothing is wrong.  But knowing that matters. Love, Defined Correctly You think love is warmth and closeness and soft things.  Sometimes it is.  But more often, love is consistency.  I return.  You open the door.  I speak.  You listen.  Over and over. No surprises.  No conditions.  Just repetition that builds trust so slowly you don’t notice it happening.   Until one day, it’s just there.  Solid.  The Nights When I Stay Out Longer.  Sometimes I stay out longer than usual.  You notice.  You try not to worry, but it builds anyway.  Those nights are not accidents.  Something has shifted. Something needs more attention.  Something requires me to extend beyond routine.  I always return.  But I understand the stretch of time feels different to you.  If I Could Explain One Thing Clearly It would be this:  I am not choosing away from you when I am outside.  I am choosing for something larger that includes you.  This land. This quiet. This pattern we live inside. You are part of it.  You are not separate from it.  When Everything Is Exactly Right There are rare moments when everything aligns. The temperature is perfect.  The air is still but not empty.  The night is calm but not silent.  You are inside, at rest.  I am outside, alert but untroubled.  Nothing needs to be done.  Nothing needs to be watched more closely.  Those moments do not last long.  But when they happen— I notice.  And When I Come Back In..  When I step through the back door, when I speak and you answer, when I settle near the fire or within sight of you— That is not the end of my night.  It is the completion of a cycle.  Everything checked.  Everything confirmed.  Everything still in place.  Including you. End of Chapter Seven Views: 1

Public Service Announcement Hurricane Season Is Here — Prepare Now

Hurricane season is here, and now is the time to prepare, not panic. Each year, hurricane season brings the potential for dangerous winds, torrential rain, flooding, power outages, and severe property damage. Even communities far from the coast can experience life-threatening weather conditions from the outer bands of these storms. A hurricane does not need to make a direct hit to cause devastation.  Strong winds can bring down trees and power lines. Heavy rain can lead to flash flooding in a matter of minutes. Roads may become impassable, and emergency services can be delayed during the height of a storm.  That is why preparation is essential. Be Ready Before the Storm Arrives:   Every household should have an emergency plan and supply kit ready before any storm watches or warnings are issued. Your emergency supplies should include: Drinking Water Canned and nonperishable food Flashlight and (extra batteries) Portable radio First aid supplies Prescription medications Important papers in (waterproof storage) Phone (chargers and backup batteries) CASH Pet food and supplies Plan for at least several days without electricity or access to stores. Know Where to Go, If local authorities issue an evacuation order, do not delay. Know your evacuation routes in advance and discuss a family meeting location in case you become separated. Make sure all family members know where to go and who to contact. Protect Your Property: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, grills, tools, and anything that could become dangerous in high winds.  Check your roof, windows, doors, and gutters for any needed repairs before storm season begins. Stay Informed Pay close attention to local weather reports and emergency alerts.  Keep your phone charged and monitor official forecasts as storms can strengthen or change direction quickly. Final Warning: Hurricanes are unpredictable and can become dangerous with little notice. Preparation today can save lives tomorrow. Do not wait until the storm is on the radar.  Prepare now, protect your family, and stay safe this hurricane season. Views: 1

THE UNDEFEATED LEGACY: THE 1976 INDIANA (HURRYING) HOOSIERS BASKETBALL TEAM

                      A look back 50 years ago.   🏀 In the annals of college basketball history, one team stands tall, undefeated, and etched in golden letters: the 1975–76 Indiana Hoosiers.  Coached by the legendary Bob Knight, this remarkable squad achieved the impossible—a perfect 32–0 record—and clinched the NCAA Men’s Division I Tournament title.  Their triumph remains unparalleled, and as of the 2025–26 season, they are the last team to be undefeated National Champions. The All-Star Cast Scott May (Forward) Height: 6’7“ Stats: 23.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists A scoring machine, May led the charge with his versatile play and clutch performances. Kent Benson (Center) Height: 6’11″ Stats: 17.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists Benson dominated the paint, combining finesse and power. Quinn Buckner (Guard) Height: 6’3″ Stats: 8.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists Buckner orchestrated the offense and was a defensive stalwart. Bob Wilkerson (Guard/Forward) Height: 6’6″ Stats: 7.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists Wilkerson’s versatility and unselfish play were crucial. Tom Abernethy (Forward) Height: 6’7″ Stats: 10.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists Abernethy stepped up when it mattered most. The Coach: Bob Knight Coach Bob Knight, known for his fiery demeanor and tactical brilliance, molded this team into a cohesive force. His relentless pursuit of perfection drove the Hoosiers to greatness. Knight’s legacy extends beyond the court, shaping generations of players and coaches. Life After Glory Scott May May played in the NBA and later became a successful businessman. His son, Sean May, won an NCAA title with North Carolina in 2005. Quinn Buckner Buckner transitioned to broadcasting and served as an executive with the Indiana Pacers. His leadership remains influential. Kent Benson Benson had an NBA career and later worked in real estate. He cherishes the memories of that magical season. Bob Knight Knight continued coaching, achieving more milestones. His legacy, however, is forever tied to the 1976 Hoosiers. The toughest game for the 1975–76 Indiana Hoosiers during their remarkable undefeated season was a conference matchup against Michigan. On February 7, 1976, in Bloomington, the Hoosiers faced a formidable challenge from Johnny Orr’s Michigan team. The Wolverines pushed Indiana to their limits, testing their mettle and resilience. Ultimately, the Hoosiers prevailed, but it was a hard-fought battle that left an indelible mark on their historic journey. In that intense clash, the Hoosiers demonstrated their unwavering determination and teamwork, securing a crucial victory on their path to perfection. The memory of that game still resonates with fans and players alike, underscoring the greatness of the 1976 Indiana Hoosiers. The Enduring Legend The 1976 Indiana Hoosiers exemplify teamwork, resilience, and excellence. Their undefeated run transcends time, reminding us that greatness is born from dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering belief. As the sun sets on their remarkable journey, their legacy shines brighter than ever.🏀   Views: 0

Welcome to our 35th edition of 2026 MARCH MADNESS !!!!

SORRY ABOUT THE DELAY:  MY SERVER BLEW UP!!  Welcome To Our 35th ANNUAL Version of MARCH MADNESS !!! Yes I will have “MY PICKS” so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry) I will have A “MASTER BRACKET”,  “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS”  for each game.  Yes I will have MY PICKS.      An “UPSET” will be RED on “ALL HIGH PICKS”  Bracket.  GREEN indicate HIGH SEED Win. What is a seed?  Merely a starting place.  Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game.  Would lets say , DUKE, to be seeded as a number 16.  They would still have  to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING: Attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP.  Seeding should lead to  the best 2 teams playing in the final game.  However there  is always that upset minded team;  or  the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured.   For more information feel free to go to…     https://ftm.coursemateai.com/home 🏀 I   pinned Artie Fischal, (who really does not know much about sports), into revealing some of his picks.  HERE YOU ARE FINAL FOUR:  ArizonaWildcats,  Duke BlueDevils, Houston Cougars, and Michigan Wolverines. CHAMPION:  Duke Blue Devils 74        Arizona. Wildcats 68   NOTE: To enlarge pick sheets; HOVER over the sheet.  Look at bottom of sheet and click the (+) PLUS . MASTER BRACKET [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2026-March-Madness-MASTER-Brackett.pdf” title=”2026 March Madness MASTER Brackett”] HIGH PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2026-March-Madness-ALLHIGH-PICKS-Brackett.pdf” title=”2026 March Madness ALLHIGH PICKS Brackett”] MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2026-March-Madness-MLY-PICKS-Brackett.pdf” title=”2026 March Madness MLY PICKS Brackett”] Views: 0

WAY TOO EARLY PROJECTION OF TEAMS IN 2026 MARCH MADNESS

Below is MY perceived 2026 NCAA Men’s March Madness 68-team bracket summary along with why these contenders are projected where they are and who the last four in might be. With clear sections and some bracket context based on multiple bracketology sources and current standings. 🏀 2026 NCAA March Madness – Perceived Bracket & Summary  Top Seeds (Projected No. 1s) No. 1 Seeds: Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn These are the teams currently leading polls and bracket projections: Duke has taken over the AP No. 1 spot after a signature win over Michigan, Michigan and Arizona remain elite in NET and poll rankings, and UConn is dominating the Big East.  🏆 Projected Bracket — Top Regions (This is a  field combining multiple bracketology projections through February) No. 1 Seeds Duke – ACC powerhouse with top metrics and high Quad-1 win totals.  AP News Michigan – Elite resume, strong analytics profile across KenPom & NET. Arizona – Undefeated and dominant in Big 12 play.  UConn – Big East leader and consistent NET top10 team. �table 2–4 Seeds (Consensus among projections): Purdue – Listed as a 2-seed and inside the top 10 NET as well.  Illinois, Houston, Iowa State, Gonzaga – All regularly projected as 2–3 seeds due to strong resumes and Quad-1 victories.  Texas Tech, North Carolina, Florida – Frequently slotted in the 4–5 range.  🔥 Bubble & At-Large Favorites These teams are frequently projected in the middle seed range (6–10) and are viewed as strong bubble contenders: Wisconsin – Now considered a lock with a solid Quad-1 profile.  Bucky’s 5th Quarter NC State, Villanova, Utah State – Often seen as swing seeds (7–9).  Tennessee, Alabama, Iowa, Louisville – Held inside projected field in most bracketology lists.  📉 Perceived Bubble & Tiering Likely In (just inside): NC State, UCLA, Auburn, Missouri, USC, SMU � Traditional Bubble (needs wins to secure): Butler, Creighton, Seton Hall, UCF, San Diego State � 🏟️ Last Four In (Play-In Candidates) According to recent projections such as Sporting News’ field of 68 and other bracketology builds: 📌 Projected Last Four In Texas Ohio State Texas A&M New Mexico These teams typically show up just inside the 68-team range but with resume gaps that could easily drop them on Selection Sunday.  ❌ First Four Out (Near-Misses) Teams often crack the bracket: Just outside the field, meaning they’d need late resume boosts to USC Santa Clara Virginia Tech Missouri These programs hover near the cut line due to inconsistent Quad-1 wins or fewer signature victories.  🧠 Why These Projections Make Sense 📊 Standings & Metrics The teams near the top of the NET and AP polls (Duke, Michigan, Arizona, UConn) also have strong strength of schedule and Quad-1 win totals — key components the Selection Committee values.  NCAA.com+ 📍 Conference Strength Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and SEC teams are well-represented due to conference depth and quality wins. The Big Ten alone has numerous projected bids.  Bucky’s 5th Quarter 📉 Strong Mid-Majors Gonzaga and Utah State often appear in the field due to excellent records, strong conference performance, and Quad-1/Quad-2 victories.  The Slipper Still Fits Views: 0

SUPER BOWL LX: HOW SEATTLE TOOK THE NIGHT, MOMENT, AND THE LOMBARDI

  A complete wrap-up of the game that defined the 2025 NFL season Super Bowl LX will not be remembered for last-second heroics, miracle catches, or officiating controversy. It will be remembered for something rarer in the modern NFL: control. On February 8, 2026, under the bright lights of Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, the Seattle Seahawks delivered a methodical, physical, and unapologetically old-school 29–13 victory over the New England Patriots, claiming the second Super Bowl championship in franchise history.  This was not a fluke.  It was not a shootout that broke one way or another.  It was a game that unfolded exactly as Seattle intended—snap by snap, quarter by quarter, possession by possession. Super Bowl LX was a reminder that championships are still won the same way they always have been: franchise history., and the ability to impose your will when the moment gets heavy. The Weight of the Matchup The league sold this game as a rematch.  And it was—at least emotionally. Seattle and New England last met on the Super Bowl stage a decade earlier, a game forever frozen in NFL history by one decision at the goal line. That memory lingered, especially for the Seahawks fan base.  But this Super Bowl was not about revenge in the cinematic sense.  It was about closure through dominance. Both teams arrived in Santa Clara with 14–3 regular-season records. Both were conference champions.  Both had survived playoff runs defined by toughness rather than fireworks.  Yet beneath the symmetry, the teams were at very different points in their football lives. Seattle was built to win now. New England was built to arrive early. The Patriots, behind rookie quarterback Drake Maye, had already exceeded expectations by reaching Super Bowl LX. The Seahawks, meanwhile, had been quietly assembling one of the most balanced rosters in the league—elite on defense, efficient on offense, and lethal on special teams. The question entering the game wasn’t whether New England belonged. It was whether they were ready. By the end of the first quarter, that question had an answer. First Quarter: Setting the Tone The opening fifteen minutes of Super Bowl LX told the story that would define the night. Seattle won the toss and deferred, a subtle but confident decision.  When New England took the field, the Seahawks defense immediately announced itself—not with a sack or turnover, but with pressure. Drake Maye was forced off his first read repeatedly.  Receivers were contested at the line.  The Patriots punted without ever crossing midfield. Seattle’s first offensive possession was deliberate.  No hurry.  No trickery. Kenneth Walker III carried the ball early and often, testing gaps, leaning into contact, forcing New England to commit extra defenders to the box. The drive stalled inside the red zone, but kicker Jason Myers converted the first of what would become a historic night: three points, Seattle. That sequence—defensive stop, clock-chewing drive, points—became the rhythm of the game. By the end of the quarter, Seattle led 3–0, but the scoreboard understated the reality.  The Seahawks had already dictated terms. Second Quarter: Pressure Turns Into Damage If the first quarter established control, the second quarter turned that control into separation. New England attempted to open things up offensively, trusting Maye’s arm and mobility.  That decision played directly into Seattle’s hands. The Seahawks’ front seven began collapsing the pocket with increasing speed, while the secondary challenged every throwing window. Midway through the quarter came the game’s first truly defining play. Facing third down near midfield, Maye tried to force a throw across the middle.  Linebacker Uchenna Nwosu read it perfectly, stepping into the passing lane and intercepting the ball cleanly.  What followed was a reminder of why defense still travels: Nwosu returned the interception for a touchdown, weaving through traffic as the Seahawks sideline erupted. In one play, the score jumped from a manageable 6–0 to a commanding 13–0. New England never fully recovered.  Seattle added two more field goals before halftime—both the result of drives that mixed Walker’s power running with short, efficient passes from Sam Darnold. The Seahawks didn’t need explosive plays. They needed precision. At halftime, the score stood 19–0, and the Patriots had yet to cross the goal line. Halftime Reality Check Down 19 points in the Super Bowl is more than a deficit—it’s a psychological barrier.  For New England, the locker room conversation wasn’t about panic. It was about survival.  The Patriots had to score quickly in the second half to have any chance.  But urgency is a dangerous thing against a disciplined defense. Seattle, meanwhile, made no speeches about finishing strong.  They didn’t need to.  Their approach was simple: keep doing exactly what had already worked. Third Quarter: The Grind The third quarter of Super Bowl LX will never make a highlight reel, and Seattle would not have it any other way.  This was championship football stripped to its core.  Seattle opened the half with a drive that lasted more than seven minutes.  Walker carried the ball.  Darnold converted third downs.  Tight ends blocked.  Receivers ran routes designed not for glamour, but for leverage. The drive ended—again—in a field goal. Myers made it 22–0, extending a Super Bowl record pace for kicking accuracy. New England finally managed sustained offense late in the quarter, but even then, nothing came easily.  Every completion was contested.  Every yard earned.  When the Patriots crossed midfield, it felt like a small victory rather than momentum. By the end of the third quarter, the score remained unchanged.  Time, the most unforgiving opponent in football, was now working entirely against New England. Fourth Quarter: Sealing It The Patriots entered the fourth quarter knowing they needed miracles. What they got instead was more Seattle control. Early in the quarter, Darnold delivered the only offensive touchdown Seattle would need—a composed, play-action strike that caught New England overcommitting to the run.  The score moved to 29–0, and any remaining suspense vanished. To their credit, the Patriots continued to fight.  Maye led two scoring drives late, finally finding rhythm… Continue reading SUPER BOWL LX: HOW SEATTLE TOOK THE NIGHT, MOMENT, AND THE LOMBARDI

SUPER BOWL LX WRAP-UP

 29                13    The Seattle Seahawks claimed Super Bowl LX with a comprehensive 29–13 victory over the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, 2026. This win secured the second, (Should have been 3rd ! But Coach Pete Carrol elected to not let Marshawn Lynch, run in the winning TD.  He will always be remembered for that BONEHEAD CALL).  Lombardi Trophy in franchise history for Seattle and capped a dominant 2025 season.  Seattle Seahawks Both the Seahawks and the Patriots entered the Super Bowl with identical 14–3 regular season records, each earning top seeds in their respective conferences. Seattle seized the NFC West and the No. 1 seed in the NFC, while New England captured a playoff berth that marked one of the most dramatic turnarounds in franchise history. The Patriots’ journey under new leadership and with rookie quarterback Drake Maye captivated fans nationwide.  The matchup was a rematch of their 2015 Super Bowl encounter, where New England secured a narrow victory. This time, Seattle sought redemption—and they delivered. Game Overview: A Defensive Masterclass From kickoff to final whistle, Super Bowl LX evolved into a defensive chess match dominated by the Seahawks’ front seven and secondary. Seattle’s unit—nicknamed the “Dark Side” defense—consistently disrupted New England’s offensive rhythm, generating pressure, turnovers, and field-position advantages throughout the game.  Key Themes Defensive Dominance: Seattle’s defense held New England scoreless through the first three quarters, applying relentless pressure on Maye and forcing critical mistakes.  Special Teams Impact: Seahawks kicker Jason Myers set a Super Bowl record with five field goals, a testament to Seattle’s ability to convert opportunities even when red-zone touchdowns proved elusive.  Turnovers and Momentum: The defense generated multiple turnovers, including an interception returned for a touchdown by Uchenna Nwosu, swinging momentum decisively in Seattle’s favor.  Seattle Seahawks Despite a modest performance from quarterback Sam Darnold, who engineered scoring drives at pivotal moments, it was Seattle’s all-around execution that defined the victory.  Seattle Seahawks Standout Performances Kenneth Walker III — MVP Running Back Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III delivered a historic performance, rushing for 135 yards on 27 carries and contributing key receptions out of the backfield.  His effort earned him Super Bowl MVP honors, making him the first running back in the 21st century to win the award since Terrell Davis in 1998.  Reuters Walker’s versatility and physicality helped Seattle control the clock and sustain drives, giving the defense more rest and the opportunity to make game-changing plays. Sam Darnold —  Steady Leadership While not the statistical star of the game, Darnold managed the Seahawks’ offense efficiently. He finished with 202 passing yards and a touchdown, avoiding turnovers and delivering when necessary—especially in the fourth quarter to expand the lead.  Seattle Seahawks Seahawks Defense — Collective Excellence The Seattle defense operated as a cohesive unit. They combined quarterback pressures, sacks, and turnovers to stifle New England’s attack. Veterans and young playmakers alike contributed, with key plays from cornerback Devon Witherspoon and linebacker Uchenna Nwosu shifting the tide at critical junctures.  Patriots: A Tough Night in Santa Clara For the New England Patriots, the Super Bowl journey ended in disappointment. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye showed flashes of brilliance—including multiple touchdowns and nearly 300 passing yards—but ultimately struggled against the Seahawks’ physical defensive front and opportunistic secondary.  Seattle Seahawks The Patriots’ offense never fully found a consistent rhythm until late in the game, and when they did, it was too little too late. New England’s lone offensive touchdowns came in the fourth quarter, long after the Seahawks had seized control. Still, the Patriots’ season marked a remarkable turnaround, laying groundwork for future contention and establishing Maye as a rising star with invaluable postseason experience.  Strategic Breakdown: How Seattle Won 1. Turnovers and Field Position Seattle’s defense forced multiple turnovers—both interceptions and fumbles—that directly led to points or shifted momentum. These plays not only halted New England drives but also flipped field position in crucial moments.   Special Teams Superiority Jason Myers’ field goals weren’t just scoreboard padding; they kept momentum squarely in Seattle’s hands when red-zone touchdowns proved elusive early.  Punter Michael Dickson also helped with impeccable placement, consistently pinning the Patriots deep.   Run Game Control Kenneth Walker III’s steady ground attack helped control the clock and kept the Patriots’ defense honest.  By balancing the attack with both run and pass, Seattle avoided predictability and kept New England off balance.  Fan and Cultural Impact Super Bowl LX extended beyond sports, with performances that highlighted the intersection of pop culture and athletic spectacle. Artists such as Bad Bunny headlined the halftime show, bringing energy and global attention to the event.   (I had to put  in Bad Bunny, even though I thought it was so bad I tuned it out.  In fact I tuned the entire half time show out). The game also sparked discussions across social media, from tactical debates to fan celebrations and reactions—highlighting how the Super Bowl remains a centerpiece of American culture every February.  Legacy and Looking Forward The Seahawks’ victory in Super Bowl LX not only delivered redemption for their 2015 loss but also solidified the 2025 Seahawks as one of the franchise’s most balanced and resilient teams.  Seattle’s blend of defensive excellence, strategic special teams, and opportunistic offense will be remembered as a blueprint for championship football. For the Patriots, the loss is a pivotal chapter in a rebuild centered around youth and innovation.  With Maye and a promising core, New England’s future in the AFC looks bright, even as they reflect on lessons from this Super Bowl experience.  Final Thoughts Super Bowl LX was a testament to discipline, defense, and execution—a game where Seattle’s formula of pressure, opportunism, and fundamentals triumphed on the biggest stage.  For fans of the Seahawks, it’s a moment of celebration; for Patriots supporters, it’s motivation to return stronger.  Either way, the 2026 Super Bowl will be remembered as a defining clash between two historic franchises.  Artie Fischal Views: 0

Super Bowl LX: A Quarter-by-Quarter Forecast of How It All Unfolds

Below is a speculative, narrative-style  post—the kind fans love to argue with afterward.  It does not assume official matchups or outcomes; instead, it builds a realistic Super Bowl LX game script based on how modern Super Bowls tend to unfold: scripted openings, halftime adjustments, fourth-quarter tension, and legacy-defining moments. Super Bowl LX won’t just be another championship game.  It will be the 60thSuper Bowl—six decades of NFL excess, strategy, controversy, dynasties, heartbreak, and heroics distilled into one night.  By the time the ball is kicked, the league will have spent two full weeks telling us everything except what actually matters: how the game itself will play out between the lines. So let’s talk football. What follows is a quarter-by-quarter projection of how Super Bowl LX is likely to unfold—not based on wishful thinking or hot takes, but on how modern Super Bowls are actually played: conservative starts, explosive counters, halftime recalibration, and a fourth quarter that swings on a handful of snaps. This is not prophecy.  It’s probability. First Quarter:  Feeling Each Other Out  The opening quarter of Super Bowl LX looks exactly like most Super Bowls do—tight, cautious, and deliberate. Both coaching staffs spend the first 10 minutes testing the edges.  Short passes.  Safe runs.  A heavy dose of motion and misdirection designed less to score and more to gather information.  The opening scripts—those first 15–20 plays rehearsed all week—are run almost to perfection, but neither side shows its full hand. SEATTLE strike first, capitalizing on early field position after a special teams miscue.  A 12-play drive chews up nearly seven minutes of clock, leaning on quick outs, shallow crossers, and one carefully timed play-action shot that sets up first-and-goal. Inside the five, they don’t get cute. Power run. Touchdown. The PATRIOTS  respond, but stall in the red zone.  A promising drive bogs down after a sack on second down, forcing a conservative field goal attempt. It’s good.   The quarter ends with both teams confident but guarded. End of 1st Quarter: SEATTLE 7, PATRIOTS 3 The game feels big. Nobody wants to be the one who makes the first real mistake. Second Quarter:  The Game Opens Up  Early in the second quarter, the PATRIOTS  begin doing what Super Bowl teams eventually have to do: attack downfield.  A no-huddle look catches the SEATTLE defense in a substitution mismatch.  A deep seam route splits the safeties.  Suddenly, the PATRIOTS are in business inside the red zone again—and this time they finish.  TOUCHDOWN ! Now the game shifts. The SEAHAWKS respond with its own aggression, dialing up a flea-flicker that doesn’t result in a touchdown but flips field position dramatically.  Three plays later, a perfectly layered throw over the linebacker but under the safety extends the lead again. With under four minutes left in the half, both quarterbacks are fully in rhythm. The game speeds up.  The crowd noise intensifies.  Defensive coordinators start reaching deeper into the call sheet. The PATRIOTS execute a textbook two-minute drill—sidelines, clock management, and one gutsy fourth-down conversion near midfield. They punch it in with under a minute remaining. The SEAHAWKS don’t panic.  They take what the defense gives them, move just far enough, and kick a long but manageable field goal as time expires. Halftime Score: SEAHAWKS 17, PATRIOTS 13 No blowout.  No chaos.  Just a perfectly balanced Super Bowl heading into halftime—exactly what the league hopes for and exactly what history suggests. Halftime: Adjustments, Not Speeches The halftime show will dominate headlines, but the game is decided in the locker rooms. The SEAHAWKS adjust coverage to eliminate explosive plays, forcing  NEW ENGLAND to sustain long drives.  The PATRIOTS counters \by committing to the run—not to dominate, but to keep the pass rush honest. This is where Super Bowl LX is truly decided: not in motivation, but in math, leverage, and matchup exploitation. Third Quarter: The Swing Quarter (Score: 24–20) The third quarter begins with NEW ENGLAND asserting physicality.  They open with a run-heavy drive—inside zone, counter, draw plays—that grinds down the SEATTLE front.  It’s not flashy, but it works. A play-action bootleg on third-and-goal results in a touchdown and the PATRIOTS first lead of the night. Momentum shifts. But Super Bowls rarely allow momentum to last. On the ensuing kickoff, the PATRIOTS break a return past midfield.  Two plays later, a deep shot off max protection results in a defensive pass interference call that flips the field again.  The PATRIOTS defense stiffens, but a red-zone fade—perfectly thrown and better hit—puts the SEAHAWKS back on top. As the quarter winds down, both teams trade punts for the first time all night. Defensive adjustments finally catch up to offensive creativity. End of 3rd Quarter: SEAHAWKS 24, PATRIOTS 20 Everything is set up for a classic finish. The fourth quarter of Super Bowl LX is exactly what the NFL markets—and rarely delivers—but this time, it does. NEW ENGLAND opens with an urgency, driving deep into SEATTLE territory.  A third-down scramble extends the drive.  A fourth-down gamble pays off.  But inside the ten, the SEAHAWKS defense forces a field goal instead of a touchdown.      That decision matters. Now trailing by seven instead of four, the PATRIOTS defense becomes aggressive.  Blitz packages. Press coverage.  Risk.  It almost backfires immediately. The SEAHAWKS breaks free on a screen pass that turns into a 40-yard gain.  The PATRIOTS hold, but the damage is done.  A methodical clock-draining drive ends with another SEATTLE  touchdown, pushing the lead to 31–20 with under six minutes remaining. The PATRIOTS answer fast—too fast to ignore.  Two explosive passes.  One missed tackle.  Touchdown. Suddenly it’s 31–27 with just over three minutes left.  Onside kick?  No.  They trust their defense.  The SEAHAWKS bleed the clock but can’t finish.  Punt.  One final drive.  The season on the line. The PATRIOTS move the ball, but the field shrinks.  A sack on second down. An incompletion under pressure.  Fourth-and-long at midfield.  The final play is there—but the throw is half a second late.  Incomplete. Kneel-downs follow. Confetti falls. Final: Why Super… Continue reading Super Bowl LX: A Quarter-by-Quarter Forecast of How It All Unfolds