WEEK 19 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas. I hope Santa was good to you and to those that he wasn't, you need to find a way to get off the naughty list. There were some interesting results in the NFL last week. Cam Newton put on a show, as the Carolina Panthers rolled over Tampa Bay 48 to 16. He also broke Peyton Manning's rookie passing yardage record. The Packers got back on track with a 35 to 21 win over rival Chicago. Tim Tebow had his worst game as a starting QB, as he threw 4 INTs in the Broncos 40 to 14 loss to Buffalo. As I said last week, Jerry Jones must be on Santa's naughty list, as the Cowboys lost to Philadelphia 20 to 7.

The ArmChair Coach went 7 and 3 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 142 and 48 for a percentage of .747. This week's games will consist of five NFL games and five College Bowl games. Let's look at this week's games.

COLLEGE BOWL GAMES

Capital One Bowl..... Nebraska vs South Carolina..... The Gamecocks have a chance to win their 11th game in a season for the first time in school history. Nuff said..... South Carolina 20 Nebraska 17

Rose Bowl..... Oregon vs Wisconsin..... The Ducks played in the BCS National Championship Game last year and came up short. Both teams will score early and often and I see the Ducks getting this one..... Oregon 38 Wisconsin 34

Fiesta Bowl..... Stanford vs Oklahoma State..... I personally think Oklahoma State should be playing in the BCS Championship Game. This has a chance to be a very good football game..... Oklahoma State 34 Stanford 31

Sugar Bowl..... Michigan vs Virginia Tech..... These two teams have been scrutinized about being picked for this game. It has a chance to be a very interesting game..... Michigan 20 Virginia Tech 18

Orange Bowl..... West Virginia vs Clemson..... The Big East Champ vs the ACC Champ. Who will win? You have two explosive offenses and two talented, but inconsistent defenses. I think which ever defense plays the best will be the key to victory..... Clemson 31 West Virginia 27

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ New Orleans..... The Panthers have played very good of late, winning four out of five. The Saints looked very impressive last week versus Atlanta. Should be a pretty good one..... New Orleans 27 Carolina 23

Kansas City @ Denver..... The Broncos have stumbled the last two weeks. Can they put it together and win one more time and win the AFC West Division? Tebow will find a way..... Denver 20 Kansas City 14

Dallas @ NY Giants..... The winner of this game wins the NFC East. The Dallas late season swoon continues..... NY Giants 16 Dallas 10

Baltimore @ Cincinnati..... The Ravens are in the playoffs and the Bengals need this one to get in. I just don't think the Bengals can win..... Baltimore 20 Cincinnati 17

NY Jets @ Miami..... This is a very big game for the Jets. Can they win a big game? The Dolphins will find a way to lose..... NY Jets 20 Miami 14

DID YOU KNOW? The last time Clemson played in the Orange Bowl was January 1, 1982. They beat Nebraska to complete a perfect season and win their only football National Championship.

Until Next Time.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

WEEK 18 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

There were some surprises that I didn't see coming last week, like Kansas City beating Green Bay. Who honestly saw that happening? I didn't see Indianapolis winning their first game either. Since this is the Christmas Edition of The ArmChair Coach, I am going to have to ask Santa for a new crystal ball to help me with my football picks, as I went only 6 and 4 last week.

The ArmChair Coach went 6 and 4 in Football Picks last week. My record for the season is 135 and 45 for a percentage of .750. Let's look at this weeks games.

NFL GAMES

Tampa Bay @ Carolina..... All Cam Newton wants for Christmas is another victory. He will get it over the Bucs..... Carolina 29 Tampa Bay 17

Miami @ New England..... The two questions I have about this game are, will this game be played on a white Christmas in New England and can the Dolphins get another win? It's still a question mark about the white Christmas but, I see the Dolphins losing to the Patriots..... New England 24 Miami 10

Chicago @ Green Bay..... I am still in shock over the Packers losing to the Chiefs. Santa will be good to the Packers, as they get a win over the arch rivals and they clinch home field for the NFC Playoffs..... Green Bay 27 Chicago 14

Denver @ Buffalo..... Tim Tebow and the Broncos get a very good Christmas gift, a win over the Buffalo Bills..... Denver 20 Buffalo 17

Philadelphia @ Dallas..... All Jerry Jones wants for Christmas is a Dallas win over the Eagles and a NFC East Title. HE MUST BE ON THE NAUGHTY LIST..... Philadelphia 23 Dallas 21

San Francisco @ Seattle..... Christmas has already come a little early for the 49ers. They already have a NFC West Title in their stockings..... San Francisco 30 Seattle 21

Minnesota @ Washington..... All the Vikings and Redskins want for Christmas is for the season to come to an end..... Washington 17 Minnesota 16

St. Louis @ Pittsburg..... The Steelers must really be on Santa's nice list, as they get to play the lowly Rams on Christmas..... Pittsburg 20 St.Louis 7

NY Giants @ NY Jets..... Win or lose it should be a good Christmas for the Giants and the Jets. Both are getting to play at home..... NY Jets 17 NY Giants 13

Atlanta @ New Orleans..... The Falcons hope that they are on Santa's nice list so they can get a much needed win over the Saints. They come up short..... New Orleans 28 Atlanta 20

What I Want For Christmas.....The thing that The ArmChair Coach wants most for Christmas is another game between Gaffney and Byrnes. It would be the rubber game and we would really see the better team (Gaffney) show who truly is the Best Team In The State.

Until Next Time.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE ARMCHAIR COACH!!!

WEEK 17 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

The NFL Season is going into Week 15 and we still have one team unbeaten, the Green Bay Packers at 13 and 0 and we still have one team win less, the Indianapolis Colts at 0 and 13. Will these two teams continue their runs toward greatness and futility?

The ArmChair Coach went 7 and 3 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 129 and 41 for a percentage of .758. Let's look at this weeks games.

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ Houston..... The Panthers let another win turn into another loss when they blew another 2nd half lead. Can they beat the Texans this week? I say they will make it close but, close ain't good enough..... Houston 20 Carolina 17

Green Bay @ Kansas City..... Another Packers game and same result..... Green Bay 45 Kansas City 14

Miami @ Buffalo..... Will anybody want to win this game? Can anybody win this game? I see the Dolphins in a close one..... Miami 23 Buffalo 21

Dallas @ Tampa Bay..... Will the Cowboys lose another game in December that they should win? Probably but, not this one..... Dallas 24 Tampa Bay 14

Washington @ NY Giants..... The Skins can't hardly wait for this dismal season to be over. The Giants aren't much better but, they can still win the NFC East..... NY Giants 17 Washington 10

New Orleans @ Minnesota..... The Saints are rolling toward the playoffs and the Vikings are rolling toward a top 5 draft pick..... New Orleans 31 Minnesota 21

New England @ Denver..... Can the Tebow magic continue this week? The magic will take a week off..... New England 23 Denver 17
NY Jets @ Philadelphia..... I wish both of these teams could lose this game but, one of them has to win. The Jets in a close one..... NY Jets 23 Philadelphia 19

Cleveland @ Arizona..... Does anyone outside of Cleveland and Arizona even care about this game? Probably not but, someone has to win..... Arizona 17 Cleveland 10

Cincinnati @ St. Louis..... Why did I even waste my time picking this game?

WEEK 16 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Santa came early for the Byrnes Rebels last Saturday, as the Gaffney Indians gave them four turnovers and a State Championship, in the Rebels 31 to 24 victory at Clemson. He also came early for the Clemson Tigers and their fans, as they were able to win the ACC Championship, that has eluded them for 20 years, with a win over Virginia Tech 38 to 10.

The ArmChair Coach went 5 and 5 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 122 and 38 for a percentage of .763. Let's look at this weeks picks.

NFL GAMES

Atlanta @ Carolina..... The Panthers have won two in a row. The question is can they win three in a row? They come close, but..... Atlanta 23 Carolina 21

Oakland @ Green Bay..... The Packers found another way to stay unbeaten last week against the Giants. They should have an easier time this week..... Green Bay 37 Oakland 17

Philadelphia @ Miami..... Two teams that look like they are headed in opposite directions, the Eagles look like they have quit and the Dolphins are getting better..... Miami 20 Philadelphia 17

Chicago @ Denver..... Can Tim Tebow win again? Yes he can and he will..... Denver 24 Chicago 19

New Orleans @ Tennessee..... The Saints look like the biggest obstacle between the Packers and another Super Bowl appearance. They roll again..... New Orleans 34 Tennessee 24

New England @ Washington..... The Patriots look like they might be the team to beat in the AFC. The roll through the Nation's Capital..... New England 31 Washington 14

Minnesota @ Detroit..... I see the Vikings giving the Lions all they want in this one. The Lions will win a close one..... Detroit 26 Minnesota 21

San Francisco @ Arizona..... This is another game that will probably be closer than people think..... San Francisco 23 Arizona 16

NY Giants @ Dallas..... This is a huge game in the NFC East. Does anyone want to win this Division? The Cowboys make a statement..... Dallas 20 NY Giants 17

Buffalo @ San Diego..... The Bills seem to be slipping back down to reality of not being a contender. The Chargers are not that good either..... San Diego 20 Buffalo 14

DID YOU KNOW? Carolina's Cam Newton broke the NFL record for rushing TDs last week against Tampa Bay. The record was 12 and he scored 3 TDs last week and now has 13 for the season. He will probably add to that number before season's end.

DID YOU KNOW? Clemson won their first ACC Championship since 1991, last Saturday night, with their win over Virginia Tech. It is also the first time they have won as many as 10 games in a season since 1990.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 15 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Week 14 of the football season has come and gone. It is time for the Weekend Of Champions in High School and the Conference Championship Games in College. The NFL teams are trying to position themselves for a playoff position. It is just "Must See TV" for football fans.

The ArmChair Coach went 8 and 2 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 117 and 33 for a percentage of .780. Let's look at this weeks games.

HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

4A Division 1..... Gaffney vs Byrnes..... This is a match-up that everyone has wanted to see
in a Championship Game. Gaffney with 16 State Titles and Byrnes with 10 State Titles, hated rivals and great football programs. The Indians won during the regular season by 22 points. The Rebels are much better, as are the Indians. This is the third week in a row that Gaffney has had to play a team that they had already beaten. They handled Dorman and Boiling Springs twice and now it is Byrnes time to go down again..... Gaffney 28 Byrnes 17
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

4A Division 2..... Greenwood vs Goose Creek..... This game should be over in about an hour, as both teams have powerful running games and they don't pass much..... Goose Creek 31 Greenwood 21

3A Championship..... Bluffton vs South Pointe..... This should be one heck of a football game. Both have great offenses and great defenses. The flip of the coin says..... Bluffton 27 South Pointe 20

2A Division 1..... Timberland vs Woodruff..... The Wolverines have not won a State Championship since 1983. They are hungry for a title. Timberland knocked off a Dillon team that no one saw getting beat. Should be a good one..... Timberland 20 Woodruff 17

2A Division 2..... Bishop England vs Pageland-Central..... This should also be a good football game. My question here is, how good is Central? They're not quiet good enough to win this game..... Bishop England 23 Pageland-Central 18

COLLEGE CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

ACC Championship Game..... Clemson vs Virginia Tech..... Which Clemson team shows up for this game? The one that started 8 and 0 and hammered the Hokies in Blacksburg or the Clemson team that has lost 3 of 4 down the stretch. I believe they will play better, but they come up short..... Virginia Tech 28 Clemson 23

SEC Championship Game..... Georgia vs LSU..... The Bulldogs have won 10 in a row after an 0 and 2 start. The Tigers have been dominant all season and are a solid Number 1. I see the game being competitive, but I see the Tigers pulling away in the 2nd half..... LSU 31 Georgia 13

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ Tampa Bay..... The Panthers won last week and they could win this week over a struggling Buccaneers team. They still need to learn how to win and they come up short..... Tampa Bay 24 Carolina 20

Green Bay @ NY Giants..... This could be a possible stumbling block for the unbeaten Packers. I see them finding a way to win and stay unbeaten..... Green Bay 29 NY Giants 21

Oakland @ Miami..... This one is hard to pick. The Dolphins are playing better and the Raiders are up and down. I see this being an up week for the Raiders..... Oakland 20 Miami 16

Until Next Time.

WEEK 14 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

There were some football teams that laid huge TURKEY EGGS last weekend. The Clemson Tigers egg came in Raleigh against N.C. State, Oklahoma State laid their egg at Iowa State, Oklahoma laid their egg at Baylor and Oregon laid their egg at home against Southern California. There were also some teams with impressive wins last weekend as well. The Gaffney Indians pounded Dorman, for a second time, 33 to 3 and Abbeville defeated Chesterfield 17 to 13.

The ArmChair Coach went 7 and 3 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 109-31 for a percentage of .779. Let's look at this week's games.

HIGH SCHOOL PLAYOFF GAMES

Boiling Springs @ Gaffney..... This is the second meeting between these two teams this season. The Indians blew out the Bulldogs back in Week 0. It is also the biggest football game in Boiling Springs football history, as they have never been to the state semi-finals in program history. I look for a pretty good football game with the Tribe putting it away in the 2nd half..... Gaffney 42 Boiling Springs 14
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Blythewood @ Byrnes..... The clock strikes midnight for the Cinderella Blythewood Bengals..... Byrnes 49 Byrnes 13

Strom Thurmond @ Woodruff..... This should be a heck of a football game between two unbeatens. I have a hunch that the visitors will go home with a win..... Strom Thurmond 28 Woodruff 24

Ashley Ridge @ Greenwood..... It will be a long ride and a long game for upstart Ashley Ridge. The Eagles roll to victory..... Greenwood 28 Ashley Ridge 10

COLLEGE GAMES

Clemson @ South Carolina..... The Tigers have had a very good season, to this point. For them to have a great season, they need to right their ship and get their swagger back. I see them getting it back this week..... Clemson 24 South Carolina 20

Virginia Tech @ Virginia..... The game that will decide the ACC Coastal Division Championship goes to..... Virginia Tech 20 Virginia 17

Arkansas @ LSU..... This is the biggest game in the country this week. It has National Championship implications and will be won by..... LSU 24 Arkansas 20

NFL GAMES

Green Bay @ Detroit..... Can the undefeated Packers win on Turkey Day? I say YES!!..... Green Bay 37 Detroit 24

Miami @ Dallas..... Can the Dolphins win on Turkey Day? I say NO!!..... Dallas 20 Miami 10

Carolina @ Indianapolis..... Can the Carolina Panthers win on Sunday against the win less Colts? I say they BETTER..... Carolina 31 Indianapolis 17

Until Next Time.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE ARMCHAIR COACH!

WEEK 13 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Week 12 of the football season had Gaffney winning big over West Ashley, even though they didn't have the intensity that they have had all season. Boiling Springs got a big playoff win over Mauldin and Spartanburg laid a HUGE EGG against Wando. The Clemson Tigers made enough mistakes against Wake Forest to lose two football games, but they found a way to win the game 31 to 28, to punch their ticket to the ACC Title Game. South Carolina beat Florida, for the second season in a row, 17 to 12. The Carolina Panthers started the second half of their season looking like the Panthers of last season, as they lost to Tennessee 30 to 3. The Packers continued to look like they are in a league of their own, as they slammed the Vikings 45 to 7.

The ArmChair Coach went 8 and 2 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 102 and 28 for a percentage of .784. Let's look at this weeks games.

HIGH SCHOOL PLAYOFF GAMES

Dorman @ Gaffney..... This is the second meeting of the season for these rivals. The Tribe won big back in week 1 and look to do it again. I look for the Indians to come out with fire in their eyes this week and get another big win..... Gaffney 42 Dorman 14
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Summerville @ Byrnes..... The Rebels are sitting pretty in their side of the playoff bracket. After two major upsets last week, the Rebels have a clear path to Death Valley for the State Title Game. The Green Wave will not be a bump in the road to the Valley..... Byrnes 42 Summerville 10

Boiling Springs @ Dutch Fork..... The question here is can the Bulldogs go to the midlands and win a playoff game? They play well and come up a little short..... Dutch Fork 31 Boiling Springs 27

Chesterfield @ Abbeville..... This should be one heck of a football game. Two contrasting styles of spread vs power. I just think the power of Abbeville will wear down the Rams..... Abbeville 24 Chesterfield 21

COLLEGE GAMES

Clemson @ N.C. State..... This match-up is for the Textile Bowl. It is a MAJOR TRAP GAME for the Tigers. Clemson needs to go into their game next week with momentum and the Wolf Pack need to win out to become bowl eligible..... Clemson 31 N.C. State 17

Virginia @ Florida State..... This is a huge game for the Cavaliers in their quest to win the ACC Coastal. They come up short on the road..... Florida State 24 Virginia 13

Kentucky @ Georgia..... The Bulldogs will wrap up the SEC East with a big win in this one..... Georgia 38 Kentucky 10

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ Detroit..... After the debacle last week the Panthers need a win. The Lions need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Lions win this cat fight in a close one..... Detroit 26 Carolina 21

Buffalo @ Miami..... The Dolphins have won two in a row. Can they make it three? Yes they can..... Miami 21 Buffalo 17

Tampa Bay @ Green Bay..... The Packer machine is running on all cylinders. They should run over a Buccaneer's team that has been up and down all season..... Green Bay 31 Tampa Bay 16

My Week 14 Football Picks will be posted on Wednesday afternoon next week because of Thanksgiving.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 12 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Week 11 of the football season had a lot to offer football fans. We had region championships decided, upsets, teams losing control of their destiny, teams remaining undefeated and we had Number 1 versus Number 2. Let's look at some of the highlights. In High School, Gaffney and Byrnes won their Region Championships. In College, South Carolina lost to Arkansas and they no longer control their own destiny for winning the SEC East. N.C. State upset North Carolina and in the battle of Number 1 versus Number 2, LSU defeated Alabama in overtime. In the NFL, the Green Bay Packers remained undefeated and the win less Miami Dolphins won their first game over Kansas City.

The ArmChair Coach went 6 and 4 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 94 and 26 for a percentage of .783. Let's look at this week's games.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

4A Division 1 Playoffs

West Ashley @ Gaffney..... The Indians rolled over rival Spartanburg last week. They clinched home field for the first three rounds of the playoffs. They seem to be kicking it up a few notches, especially defensively, as we head into the playoffs. They will be rude hosts and blowout their round 1 opponent from Charleston..... Gaffney 49 West Ashley 0
For a more in depth preview of this game you can click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Dorman @ Sumter..... The Cavaliers hit the long road to Sumter. They will enjoy the trip home after a round 1 playoff win over the Gamecocks..... Dorman 31 Sumter 23

Wando @ Spartanburg..... The Vikings will have to put the scalping by Gaffney behind them and focus on this weeks opponent. They should get it going and advance to round 2..... Spartanburg 23 Wando 13

Mauldin @ Boiling Springs..... It has been a very good season for the Bulldogs. They came up short in their bid to win the Region 2 Championship, but they will get a round 1 playoff win..... Boiling Springs 28 Mauldin 16

COLLEGE GAMES

Wake Forest @ Clemson..... The Tigers are ready to go after having a week off. This is their first game since their loss at Georgia Tech. A win by the Tigers and they are Atlantic Division Champions. They should roll to victory..... Clemson 37 Wake Forest 20

Florida @ South Carolina..... The Gamecocks need to win this game and have Georgia lose one of their final two SEC games to win the East Division. They will do their part..... South Carolina 14 Florida 10

Georgia Southern @ Wofford..... This is a huge game in the Southern Conference. A Georgia Southern win and they are the conference champs. They will get it done..... Georgia Southern 27 Wofford 21

NFL GAMES

Tennessee @ Carolina..... The Panthers have been so close to victory in their six losses. They need to learn how to win. They will take a step forward this week, as they get their season's second half off to a good start..... Carolina 24 Tennessee 21

Minnesota @ Green Bay..... The Packers continue to roll right along as the NFL's only unbeaten team. The Vikings gave them a game a few weeks back and could do it again. I see the Packers getting the victory at home..... Green Bay 35 Minnesota 20

Washington @ Miami..... The Dolphins played their best game of the season last week. They got their first win of the season as well. Can they make it two wins in a row? I say yes..... Miami 20 Washington 17

DID YOU KNOW? The Gaffney Indians have not lost a home playoff game since 1984. That is a streak of 35 wins in a row.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 11 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Week 10 of the football season has come and gone. In High School, Gaffney and Spartanburg both won to set up a winner take all Region 3 4A Championship game. Byrnes and Boiling Springs both won to set up the Region 2 4A Championship game. In College, Clemson lost at Georgia Tech 31 to 17 and South Carolina won at Tennessee 14 to 3. In the NFL, Carolina found another way to lose a close game, as Olindo Mare missed a short field goal that would have sent the game to overtime. Bring back John Kasey. The Panthers lost 24 to 21 to Minnesota.

The ArmChair Coach went 7 and 3 in Football Picks last week. My record for the season is 88 and 22 for a percentage of .800. Let's look at this weeks games.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Gaffney @ Spartanburg..... This is the biggest Gaffney vs Spartanburg game in about ten years. It has a chance to be a very good game. The rivalry has new life and it is for the Region 3 Championship. The Indians will put this one away in the 2nd half..... Gaffney 38 Spartanburg 14
For a more in depth preview of this game, you can click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Byrnes @ Boiling Springs..... Last week when Byrnes and Dorman played was supposed to be for the Region 2 Championship. Boiling Springs threw a monkey wrench in those plans when they beat Dorman a few weeks back. So it is Byrnes vs Boiling Springs, YES I SAID BOILING SPRINGS, for the Region 2 Championship this week. The Bulldogs are excited and will play well, but Byrnes has been in big games before..... Byrnes 24 Boiling Springs 20

Rock Hill @ Northwestern..... This rivalry is still huge in York County. It is big for Northwestern, as they can still finish 2nd in Region 3 with some help..... Northwestern 31 Rock Hill 20

Fairfield Central @ Greer..... This is a 1st round playoff game in 3A and should be a very good football game. I see Greer winning a close one..... Greer 27 Fairfield Central 23

COLLEGE GAMES

South Carolina @ Arkansas..... The Gamecocks have had a heck of a time winning in Arkansas over the years. This year will be no exception, as they fall to the HOGS..... Arkansas 24 South Carolina 17

L.S.U. @ Alabama..... This should be one heck of a football game between Number 1 and Number 2. I give the edge to Alabama at home..... Alabama 20 L.S.U. 17

North Carolina @ North Carolina State..... This is a huge rivalry on Tobacco Road. Wolf Pack fans are saying "Come Home Russell Wilson". He isn't and they won't win this game..... North Carolina 28 North Carolina State 17

NFL GAMES

Miami @ Kansas City..... I an old enough to remember the monumental game, on Christmas Day, back in the 1970s. The longest game played. This one will not be monumental..... Kansas City 20 Miami 13

Green Bay @ San Diego..... Could this be the first bump in the road for the unbeaten Packers? I don't think so..... Green Bay 34 San Diego 24

San Francisco @ Washington..... Two teams going in different directions. They will continue going in their directions..... San Francisco 23 Washington 17

DID YOU KNOW? Spartanburg has not won a Region Championship since 1999. Gaffney has not won a Region Championship since 2006.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 10 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

It's hard to believe, but we are down to Week 10 of the 2011 football season. It has been a very exciting and fun season for The ArmChair Coach. My High School team, the Gaffney Indians, is still undefeated at 9 and 0. My College team, the Clemson Tigers, is still undefeated at 8 and 0. One of my NFL teams, the Green Bay Packers, is still undefeated at 7 and 0 and my other NFL team, the Carolina Panthers, is at 2 and 5, but they have been very exciting and interesting. I am looking forward with anticipation for the remainder of the season.

The ArmChair Coach went 8 and 2 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 81 and 19 for a percentage of .810. Let's look at this week's games.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Northwestern @ Gaffney..... This match-up has decided the Region 3 4A Championship the past three seasons. The Trojans won all three times. The winner this year will be in the drivers seat. I look for the Indians to remain on their awesome roll..... Gaffney 42 Northwestern 14
For a more in depth preview of this game, you can click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Dorman @ Byrnes..... This is a very huge game in the race for the Region 2 4A Championship. This would also be a huge game if the teams were win less. I give the edge to the home team..... Byrnes 24 Dorman 20

Landrum @ Christ Church..... This is a huge game in the 1A division. The winner is the Region Champions. I see the Cavaliers as repeat champions..... Christ Church 32 Landrum
20

Spartanburg @ Lancaster..... These two teams still have a chance to win the Region 3 4A Championship as well. The winner is still alive..... Spartanburg 28 Lancaster 13

COLLEGE GAMES

Clemson @ Georgia Tech..... This is another huge road test for the young and unbeaten Tigers. The Jackets need this win to stay alive in the ACC Coastal Division race. It should be a dandy..... Clemson 38 Georgia Tech 24

South Carolina @ Tennessee..... This is the Gamecocks first game since the Marcus Lattimore injury. How will they do? This week I see a win..... South Carolina 20 Tennessee
10

Oklahoma @ Kansas State..... The surprising Wildcats are unbeaten and ready to make a statement. The Sooners are trying to get back on track. The statement will be, the Sooners are back on track..... Oklahoma 31 Kansas State 21

NFL GAMES

Minnesota @ Carolina..... The Panthers got a much needed win over the Redskins last week. They will try to put two wins in a row together for the first time in a while. They will start a win streak..... Carolina 30 Minnesota 21

Miami @ New York Giants..... The understatement of the season is the Dolphins need a win. They won't get it this week..... New York Giants 24 Miami 10

New England @ Pittsburg..... This could be a preview of the AFC Championship. It should be a good one..... New England 27 Pittsburg 23

DID YOU KNOW? The Clemson Tigers Number 5 ranking in the BCS Poll is their highest ever in the BCS. There was no BCS Poll when the Tigers won the National Title in 1981.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 9 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Let's look at some of the football highlights from last week's games. In High School, Gaffney remained awesome with a 72 to 13 win over Rock Hill and Boiling Springs won their 6th in a row with a 62 to 28 victory over Wren. In College, Clemson rallied from eighteen points down in the 3rd quarter to beat Maryland 56 to 45 and South Carolina won an ugly game at Mississippi State 14 to 12. In the NFL, The Carolina Panthers let another game get away, as they lost a 4th quarter lead against the Atlanta Falcons and fell 31 to 17 and The Green Bay Packers remained unbeaten with a 24 to 3 win over the Rams.

The ArmChair Coach went 9 and 1 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 73 and 17 for a percentage of .811. Let's look at this week's games.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Lancaster @ Gaffney..... This is the first game at The Reservation in five weeks. It is also homecoming in Gaffney as well. It is also a game between the Bruins and Indians that are tied atop the Region 3 4A standings. It should be all Gaffney..... Gaffney 49 Lancaster 13
For a more in depth preview of this game, click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Blacksburg @ Landrum..... This should be one of the better games in the upstate this week. It is also one of the biggest..... Landrum 25 Blacksburg 20

Rock Hill @ Spartanburg..... This is a huge game in Region 3 4A. Neither team can afford another region loss. I see the Vikings getting it done..... Spartanburg 34 Rock Hill 20

Greer @ Blue Ridge..... This is another huge game in the upstate. Winner of this one probably wins their region..... Greer 31 Blue Ridge 28

COLLEGE GAMES

North Carolina @ Clemson..... The Tigers return to Death Valley still unbeaten. Could this be a trap game with Georgia Tech looming? NOT A CHANCE..... Clemson 34 North Carolina 20

Wofford @ Furman..... You never know what to expect when these two rivals get together. But you can expect a tough tight football game..... Wofford 28 Furman 24

Auburn @ LSU..... This battle of the Tigers should be won by the bayou bunch..... LSU 30 Auburn 17

NFL GAMES

Washington @ Carolina..... The Panthers have been so close, but so far away from victory. I really expect them to finally get their 2nd win..... Carolina 24 Washington 20

Green Bay @ Minnesota..... On paper this should be a big Packers win. On the field it will be a big Packers win..... Green Bay 33 Minnesota 17

Denver @ Miami..... Both of these teams need a win very bad. I thought about flipping a coin, but I decided to go with the home team..... Miami 20 Denver 17

DID YOU KNOW? The 18 points that Clemson rallied from for victory over Maryland is the second largest comeback in school history. The largest is 28 in 1992 over Virginia.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 8 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Let's look at some of the exciting highlights from last weeks football action. In High School, the Gaffney Indians came back from their off week and picked up where they left off, as they routed Clover 55 to 3 and Boiling Springs went to Dorman and came home with a 31 to 28 victory over the Cavaliers. In College, Clemson stayed undefeated with a 36 to 14 victory over Boston College and South Carolina got a very good game from QB Conner Shaw, as they blew out Kentucky 54 to 3. In the NFL, the Carolina Panthers let another close game get away, as they lost to New Orleans 30 to 27 and Green Bay went into Atlanta and beat the Falcons 25 to 14. The Carolina Panthers have to be the most interesting 1 and 4 team that I have seen.

The ArmChair Coach went 8 and 2 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 64 and 16 for a percentage of .800. Let's look at this weeks games.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Gaffney @ Rock Hill..... District 3 Stadium in Rock Hill has been a house of horrors for the Gaffney Indians over the years. This time the horrors will be on the Bearcats..... Gaffney 49 Rock Hill 10
For a more in depth preview of this game, you can click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Southside Christian @ Landrum..... The Cardinals have had a very good season and it continues with another victory this week..... Landrum 24 Southside Christian 20

Clover @ Spartanburg..... This is a huge game in Region 3 4A, as both of these teams are coming off losses last week. They can't afford to start region play 0 and 2. The Vikings should prevail..... Spartanburg 31 Clover 14

Boiling Springs @ Wren..... The question here is, how does the Bulldogs handle prosperity after their big win at Dorman? I say pretty good. It should be a shootout..... Boiling Springs 45 Wren 35

COLLEGE GAMES

Clemson @ Maryland..... The Tigers head out on the road for another test in a hostile environment. They passed their first road test with flying colors and they should pass this one as well..... Clemson 34 Maryland 21

South Carolina @ Mississippi State..... Carolina QB Conner Shaw makes his first road start in the SEC. It won't be easy, but they will get it done..... South Carolina 23 Mississippi State 14

Georgia Tech @ Virginia..... The Georgia Tech option offense was slowed last week against Maryland, but they still won the game. They will get it cranked back up this week..... Georgia Tech 43 Virginia 24

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ Atlanta..... The Panthers are the most entertaining 1 and 4 team that I have seen. They need to learn how to win games. They will come close again, but..... Atlanta 23 Carolina 20

St. Louis @ Green Bay..... The Packers have been on a roll and I look for them to roll over the Rams..... Green Bay 38 St. Louis 13

Philadelphia @ Washington..... The Skins have been a surprise and the Eagles have been a disappointment. Who will win this one? I have a hunch that it will be..... Philadelphia 20 Washington 16

Until Next Time.

WEEK 7 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

It was a statement weekend in College football last week. The Clemson Tigers made a huge statement that they can win on the road in a hostile environment, as they beat Virginia Tech 23 to 3. South Carolina made a statement that they have some offense problems, as they lost to Auburn 16 to 13. Wofford made a major statement in the Southern Conference race, as they defeated Appalachian State 28 to 14. Alabama made a strong statement that they might be the best team in the country, as they pounded Florida 38 to 10.

The ArmChair Coach went 8 and 2 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 56 and 14 for a percentage of .800. Let's look at this weeks games.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Gaffney @ Clover..... The Tribe had a week off last week and had a chance to rest from scoring points in bunches. They pick up where they left off..... Gaffney 49 Clover 6
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Boiling Springs @ Dorman..... This is a huge game in Region 2 4A, as the loser will probably finish third and the winner will have a chance to play for the Region Title..... Dorman 24 Boiling Springs 14

Spartanburg @ Northwestern..... This is a huge game in Region 3 4A, as we will find out who the best team to challenge Gaffney in the Region will be..... Spartanburg 24 Northwestern 22

Woodruff @ Newberry..... This is the biggest game that Phil Strickland has had while at Newberry. The Wolverines have a little to much..... Woodruff 29 Newberry 20

COLLEGE GAMES

Boston College @ Clemson..... The Tigers are coming off three straight wins over ranked teams. How will they do against a struggling unranked team? I think pretty good..... Clemson 41 Boston College 10

Kentucky @ South Carolina..... The Gamecocks are struggling on offense, but the Wildcats are struggling everywhere..... South Carolina 30 Kentucky 17

Florida @ LSU..... The Gators lost big at home to Bama last week. They play better this week, but still come up short..... LSU 23 Florida 14

NFL GAMES

New Orleans @ Carolina..... The Panthers played pretty well on offense last week, but gave up big plays on special teams that cost them the game. They will have defensive problems this week..... New Orleans 34 Carolina 24

Green Bay @ Atlanta..... The Packers won in Atlanta, in the playoffs, on their way to the Super Bowl Title. They will win in Atlanta again..... Green Bay 38 Atlanta 28

Tennessee @ Pittsburg..... The Steelers need a win against the surprising Titans to keep from falling below the .500 mark. They win in a close one..... Pittsburg 17 Tennessee 13

DID YOU KNOW? The Clemson Tigers have won three consecutive games against ranked teams. It is a school record and an ACC record.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 6 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

The football action last week was interesting. Let's look at some of the highlights. In High School, Gaffney destroyed Greenville 73 to 0 and Blacksburg beat previously unbeaten Southside Christian 24 to 19. In College, Clemson made a huge statement by beating Florida State 35 to 30 and South Carolina won an ugly game against Vanderbilt 21 to 3. In the NFL, Carolina won, in a driving rain storm, over Jacksonville 16 to 10 and Dallas squeaked by Washington 18 to 16.

The ArmChair Coach went 8 and 2 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 48 and 12 for a percentage of .800. Let's look at this week's picks.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Boiling Springs @ J.L. Mann..... The Bulldogs have been on a roll the last three weeks. The roll will continue..... Boiling Springs 34 J.L. Mann 24

Mauldin @ Byrnes..... Against teams not named Myrtle Beach and Gaffney, the Rebels have been awesome. They should roll again this week..... Byrnes 42 Mauldin 13

St. Joseph's @ Blacksburg..... The Wildcats got a good win over unbeaten Southside Christian last week. They will open region play with another win..... Blacksburg 28 St. Joseph's 16

Blue Ridge @ Chapman..... This looks to be an exciting and high scoring game. It will probably come down to the team that has the ball last..... Blue Ridge 35 Chapman 30

COLLEGE GAMES

Clemson @ Virginia Tech..... This is the first road test for the young Tigers. What a test it will be, in Blacksburg, Virginia on a Saturday night. I see the Tigers playing well, but they will come up short..... Virginia Tech 27 Clemson 24

Auburn @ South Carolina..... The Gamecocks and their fans want this game BAD! They owe Auburn after losing to them twice last season. They will find a way to win at the end..... South Carolina 34 Auburn 28

Appalachian State @ Wofford..... This is a huge game in the Southern Conference. App. State won last season in Boone. I see Wofford getting the win in a close one..... Wofford 26 Appalachian State 23

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ Chicago..... The Panthers got their first win last week after two close losses. It will be tough in the Windy City and I see them coming up short..... Chicago 23 Carolina 17

Denver @ Green Bay..... The Packers are 3 and 0 going into this game and will come out of this game 4 and 0..... Green Bay 35 Denver 18

Washington @ St. Louis..... The Skins try to bounce back after their loss to Dallas. I believe they will bounce back..... Washington 20 St. Louis 16

DID YOU KNOW? The Clemson Tigers have not won at Virginia Tech since 1989.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 5 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

The football action last weekend was eye opening and exciting. The Gaffney Indians went into hostile Nixon Field in Duncan and beat the Byrnes Rebels 35 to 13. This win by the Indians was definitely an eye opener, not only in South Carolina but the nation. The Clemson Tigers defeated the defending National Champion Auburn Tigers 38 to 24, snapping the nation's longest winning streak. The Carolina Panthers took the defending Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers down to the wire, before losing 30 to 23.

The ArmChair Coach went 9 and 1 in Football Picks last week. My record for the season is 40 and 10 for a percentage of .800. Lets look at this weeks picks.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Gaffney @ Greenville..... Over the last four seasons this game has been decided by 7 points or less. The Indians are unbeaten and the Red Raiders are winless. TRAP GAME FOR GAFFNEY? I don't think so..... Gaffney 56 Greenville 13
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Southside Christian @ Blacksburg..... The Wildcats will try to get back in the win column this week after a tough loss to Liberty. It should be a fun week to be a Blacksburg football fan..... Blacksburg 28 Southside Christian 16

Pageland-Central @ Chesterfield..... This is a huge rivalry down in Chesterfield County. This will be a Region game next season, as Chesterfield moves to 2A. Tough one to call, but I have a feeling Central will find a way to win at the end..... Pageland-Central 24 Chesterfield 21

Chapman @ Chesnee..... The Eagles won a wild one against the Panthers last season. The young Eagles are looking for their first win of the season, but they will have to wait at least one more week to get it..... Chapman 34 Chesnee 28

COLLEGE GAMES

Florida State @ Clemson..... This is a monster game in the ACC Atlantic Division. Clemson coming off a huge win over Defending Champ Auburn and Florida State losing a tough one to Top Ranked Oklahoma. I feel like the Tigers will find a way to get it done..... Clemson 27 Florida State 23

Vanderbilt @ South Carolina..... In recent years Vandy has played the Gamecocks tough, winning a couple of times. I think this game will be close until the Cocks pull away in the 4th quarter..... South Carolina 31 Vanderbilt 16

Arkansas @ Alabama..... Huge game in the SEC West. It could be a statement game for Arkansas. The statement will be, "They ain't quiet there yet"..... Alabama 27 Arkansas 19

NFL GAMES

Jacksonville @ Carolina..... The Panthers have been close the past two weeks. This is one that they should get..... Carolina 24 Jacksonville 16

Green Bay @ Chicago..... This classic old rivalry is a rematch of last season's NFC Title Game that was won by the Packers. The Packers will win this one as well..... Green Bay 30 Chicago 20

Miami @ Cleveland..... The Dolphins are in a desperate need for a victory. It won't be easy, but I think they will get it..... Miami 20 Cleveland 17

DID YOU KNOW? Florida State has not beaten Clemson in Death Valley since the 2001 season.

DID YOU KNOW? Carolina Panthers' rookie QB Cam Newton is the first QB in NFL history to pass for over 400 yards in his first two NFL games.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 4 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Welcome to my 100th blog post of The ArmChair Coach. I have thoroughly enjoyed doing this blog and I plan to continue. I hope The ArmChair Coach fans out there have enjoyed my predictions and my insight into the sports world. Feel free to comment whether you agree or disagree with me.

The Answer To The ArmChair Coach's Sports Trivia Question is..... Thirteen NFL Championships the Green Bay Packers have won.

The ArmChair Coach Went 10 and 0 in Football Picks last Week. I am 31 and 9 for the season for a percentage of .775. Let's look at this weeks picks.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Gaffney @ Byrnes..... This is the game of the year, to this point, in the state of South Carolina. It is also one of the best in the Southeast. Two storied programs with 26 State Championships between them. I see the Indians getting it done..... Gaffney 28 Byrnes 21
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Greenwood @ Spartanburg..... This is probably the second best game in the state this week. I see the Eagles winning it late..... Greenwood 21 Spartanburg 17

T.L. Hanna @ Dorman..... Many people are shocked that Dorman is 0 and 3 this season. I am one of them. They have played three very good football teams. The competition gets lighter this week..... Dorman 27 T.L. Hanna 13

Boiling Springs @ Clinton..... After a week off the Bulldogs try to get their second win of the season. I believe they will..... Boiling Springs 24 Clinton 21

COLLEGE GAMES

Auburn @ Clemson..... This battle of Tigers went to overtime last season with Auburn winning on their way to the National Championship. It should be another tough tight football game with the Tigers winning. The Auburn Tigers that is..... Auburn 34 Clemson 31

Navy @ South Carolina..... The Gamecocks have had a hard time stopping passing attacks this season. Navy won't throw much, but their option attack could cause some problems..... South Carolina 38 Navy 21

Tennessee @ Florida..... This should be a game to see just how much these two teams have improved from last season..... Florida 26 Tennessee 17

NFL GAMES

Green Bay @ Carolina..... I can't hardly wait for this game. I am a life long fan of the Packers and a huge fan of the Panthers since their entry into the NFL. I see the Super Bowl Champs to be to much for the young Panthers..... Green Bay 38 Carolina 17

Houston @ Miami..... This should be a very entertaining game. I have been a big Dolphins fan over the years as well..... Houston 23 Miami 21

Seattle @ Pittsburg..... The Steelers had seven turnovers last week and was pounded by the Ravens. They should bounce back with a big win this week..... Pittsburg 29 Seattle 14

Until Next Time.

WEEK 3 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

The games last week were both interesting and exciting. In High School, Gaffney pounded Greenwood 47 to 21 and Spartanburg defeated Dorman 27 to 14. In College, South Carolina and Clemson struggled early, but both won going away. We kick up the Football Picks another notch this week, as we start the NFL season. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?

The ArmChair Coach went 6 and 4 in football picks last week. My record for the season is 21 and 9 for a percentage of .700%. Lets look at this weeks picks.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Union County @ Gaffney..... This could be the ultimate trap game for the Gaffney Indians. They are coming off two huge wins and they have Byrnes next week. I see the Indians winning this one even if they play their "B" game..... Gaffney 45 Union County 7
For a more in depth preview of this game, you can click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Sumter @ Spartanburg..... The Vikings are coming off a huge win over Dorman last week. Could this be a trap game for them? I don't think so..... Spartanburg 23 Sumter 7

Chesnee @ Woodruff..... On paper this should be a mismatch. The game is not played on paper but, it should still be a lopsided Woodruff victory..... Woodruff 48 Chesnee 14

Latta @ Blacksburg..... Latta makes the long bus ride up to Cherokee County to play the Blacksburg Wildcats. The ride home will be much longer..... Blacksburg 29 Latta 14

COLLEGE GAMES

Wofford @ Clemson..... The Tigers could have some problems stopping the Terriers option attack. In the end Clemson should roll..... Clemson 41 Wofford 17

South Carolina @ Georgia..... This is a huge early game in the SEC East. It will be a huge early SEC win for the Gamecocks..... South Carolina 34 Georgia 24

Alabama @ Penn State..... This should be a good measuring stick for both of these storied programs. I think the Tide will roll..... Alabama 28 Penn State 17

NFL GAMES

Carolina @ Arizona..... The Cam Newton era starts for Carolina with a road loss..... Arizona 24 Carolina 17

New Orleans @ Green Bay..... This is a very intriguing match-up between the last two Super Bowl Champions. I see the Packers pulling this one out late..... Green Bay 24 New Orleans 21

New England @ Miami..... The Dolphins need to play better at home this season. They get a chance to make an early statement but, they don't get it done..... New England 27 Miami 17

THE ARMCHAIR COACH'S SPORTS TRIVIA QUESTION

How many NFL Championships have the Green Bay Packers won?

Until Next Time.

WEEK 2 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

The Week 1 games were very interesting, as the Gaffney Indians made a huge statement by beating Dorman 35 to 14. Something else I found interesting was, Woodruff looks like they are better than I thought they were and Northwestern looks to be down some this year. The football excitement really kicks up a notch this week, as the college teams begin their 2011 seasons.

The Answer To The ArmChair Coach's Sports Trivia Question is..... Jimmie Johnson was the second Head Coach in Dallas Cowboy's history.

The ArmChair Coach went 7 and 5 in football pick last week. My record for the young season is 15 and 5 for a percentage of .750. Let's look at this weeks picks.

HIGH SCHOOL GAMES

Greenwood @ Gaffney..... This is another early season showdown between two storied programs. Greenwood won last season 10 to 7 to break a 7-game losing streak to the Indians. I see Gaffney to have to much speed and depth and they will start another streak against the Eagles..... Gaffney 28 Greenwood 14
For a more in depth preview of this game go to the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Dorman @ Spartanburg..... This game has two major questions that I want to see answered. Is Spartanburg as good as they looked last week against Union County? Is Dorman down from their usual stud self, after their loss to Gaffney? I think we will know a little more about these two rivals but, it will take the season to get all of the answers...... Dorman 23 Spartanburg 20

Myrtle Beach @ Byrnes..... Myrtle Beach should give Byrnes a much better game than Ballard (KY) did last week. The Rebels will still get the win..... Byrnes 34 Myrtle Beach 16

Woodruff @ Clinton..... You never know what to expect when these two old rivals get together. Woodruff looked great against Greenville and Clinton didn't look to good against Newberry. Woodruff will win but, Clinton should play with them..... Woodruff 27 Clinton 20

Chesterfield @ Cheraw..... These two teams and towns don't like each other at all. Chesterfield has had the upper hand in this series the last few seasons. The Rams will win but, the Braves are closing the gap..... Chesterfield 23 Cheraw 17

COLLEGE GAMES

Troy @ Clemson..... How good will Clemson's new look offense look out of the gate? By the second half pretty good..... Clemson 38 Troy 21

South Carolina vs East Carolina @ Charlotte..... The Pirates will throw the ball all over the yard. The South Carolina offense will be to much for the East Carolina defense..... South Carolina 41 East Carolina 21

Boise State vs Georgia @ Atlanta..... I think the Bulldogs will be much better this season. The last time Boise State played an SEC team was Georgia in 2005. It wasn't pretty, as Georgia won big. I see Georgia in a mild upset..... Georgia 24 Boise State 21

Appalachian State @ Virginia Tech..... The Hokies have a history of laying an early egg. Appalachian State went to Michigan and won a few years ago. VERY INTERESTING! I think the Hokies egg will come later..... Virginia Tech 27 Appalachian State 13

Utah State @ Auburn..... The defending National Champs will start the post Cam Newton era with a win..... Auburn 31 Utah State 14

Until Next Time.

HOW TEAMS GOT THEIR NAME- SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS

Today is the second in my series of blogs, How Teams Got Their Name. This one is about the South Carolina Gamecocks. Again, if anyone disputes my findings feel free to comment and tell me what you think.

South Carolina Gamecocks..... During the 1890's, the University of South Carolina's football team struggled and used numerous team nicknames. At the turn of the century, people unofficially called their feisty and battling team Game Cocks. In 1903, a Columbia newspaper shortened the name to one word, and the schools teams have been called Gamecocks ever since. The University of South Carolina is the only major university that uses Fighting Gamecocks as its team name.

A Gamecock is a fighting rooster known for its spirit and courage to fight till it's death. The state of South Carolina has historically been associated with breeding and training of fighting gamecocks. Cockfighting has been outlawed throughout most of the United States, but still exist in some areas illegally.

My Week 2 Football Picks will be available on Thursday afternoon September 1, 2011.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 1 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Week 0 of the High School football season has come and gone and we had some impressive performances and some performances that teams, coaches and fans would like to forget. The Gaffney Indians had a complete performance, against Boiling Springs, as they pounded the Bulldogs 47 to 0. We had a couple of teams score at least 70 points, with York scoring 75 against Lewisville and Easley scoring 70 against West-Oak. I expected a better game between Irmo and Dutch Fork, but Dutch Fork made a statement by beating their rival 24 to 0.

The Answer to The ArmChair Coach's Sports Trivia Question is..... The Gaffney Indians, as the team with the most State Football Championships in South Carolina with 16 Titles.

The ArmChair Coach started the season off with a bang, as I went 8 and 0 in Week 0 Football Picks. They're some big games to pick this week, so let's look at them.

HIGH SCHOOL

Gaffney @ Dorman..... This is the monster game in the state this week. Gaffney made a statement last week, while Dorman will be playing their season opener. Who has the advantage, Gaffney having played last week or Dorman playing at home? I say those two factors cancel each other out. I say Gaffney has the most talent and the better team this year..... Gaffney 24 Dorman 14
For a more in depth preview of this game, you can click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Greenwood @ Boiling Springs..... The Eagles played for the Division 2 4A Title last season and they appear to be loaded again this season. The Bulldogs will play them tough for a while, but the Eagles get it done..... Greenwood 20 Boiling Springs 7

Rock Hill @ Greer..... This was one heck of a game last year and this looks like another. Rock Hill won on the field, but had to forfeit late in the season. They will get to keep this one..... Rock Hill 24 Greer 21

Spartanburg @ Union County..... The Vikings won this meeting last year, in a close one They should win another close one..... Spartanburg 27 Union County 20

York @ Broome..... The Centurions won this game last season, on the road. York has a new coach and a new attitude. Payback is sweet..... York 24 Broome 17

Chase (NC) @ Chesnee..... This has turned into a pretty good border battle. The Eagles won a close one last season and they will find a way to do it again..... Chesnee 17 Chase 14

Greenville @ Woodruff..... This is another huge match-up between high powered offenses. This should be a dandy..... Greenville 28 Woodruff 24

Blacksburg @ McBee..... This is a homecoming game for Blacksburg OL Coach Drew Chisholm, as he played for McBee. It will be bitter sweet..... McBee 14 Blacksburg 7

Timmonsville @ Chesterfield..... The Golden Rams should get off to a very good start to their last season in 1A. The 2A bound Rams win big..... Chesterfield 28 Timmonsville 7

Northwestern @ South Pointe..... Another huge game between two city rivals. The Trojans won big last season, on their way to an unbeaten season. They will win a close one this time..... Northwestern 24 South Pointe 18

Hillcrest @ Mauldin..... The Battle of the Golden Strip Part 1 goes to..... Mauldin 26 Hillcrest 17

Barnwell @ Williston-Elco..... The Blue Devils got waxed last week by Strom Thurmond. They do not like to lose. They will bounce back..... Williston-Elco 20 Barnwell 12

THE ARMCHAIR COACH SPORTS TRIVIA QUESTION

Who was the second Head Coach in the history of the Dallas Cowboys?

If you have the answer leave me a comment. I will have the answer next Thursday in my Week 2 Football Picks blog.

You can catch the next in my series of blogs titled How Teams Got Their Name on Tuesday. Next up is the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Until Next Time.

HOW TEAMS GOT THEIR NAME- CLEMSON TIGERS

Today I am starting my special series of blogs on How Teams Got Their Name. First up is the Clemson Tigers. I have found this information through research and if anyone disputes my findings feel free to comment. I found it very interesting.

Clemson Tigers..... The school was named for Thomas Green Clemson and was established as Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina. It opened in 1893 , after Clemson's death. The college was an all-male military school until 1955 when it was changed to "civilian" status. In 1964 the college was renamed Clemson University. It has been said that Clemson's first football coach, Professor Walter Merritt Riggs, first used the TIGERS nickname for his team. Due to not wearing helmets, in those days, the players wore long hair. These long manes might have gained them the name of LIONS had it not been for the orange and purple striped jerseys and socks the team wore. It was said that they resembled TIGERS. The name TIGERS seemed to stick, so we have the Clemson Tigers and not the Clemson Lions. Coach Riggs had played football for Auburn, also nicknamed TIGERS, whose colors were orange and blue.

I will have my Week 1 Football Picks blog on Thursday afternoon. I will also continue my series of blogs How Teams Got Their Name on Tuesday August 30, 2011. The team next time will be the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Until Next Time.

WEEK 0 FOOTBALL PICKS (2011)

Well it is that time of the year again, HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TIME! The scrimmages and the jamborees are over for some of the High Schools in South Carolina. It is Week 0 of the 2011 High School Football Season and we have some pretty good match-ups, across the state, for football starved fans to go to. GAMES THAT ACTUALLY COUNT. The ArmChair Coach is back for another season of previews, predictions and information about everything football and more. I am really excited about this 2011 football season. The College Football Season is still a couple of weeks away and the NFL is about three weeks away, so we will concentrate on the High School teams the first two weeks. I will have my weekly football picks through the Super Bowl and I will have special blogs through out the season on a variety of sports related topics. Let's look at some of the Week 0 High School Football games.

Boiling Springs @ Gaffney..... The Boiling Springs Bulldogs usually play the Indians tough. Last season it came down to a last second goal line stand by the Gaffney defense to preserve the Indians 21 to 14 victory. This should be another hard fought game, but the Indians will pull away
for the win..... Gaffney 28 Boiling Springs 7
For a more in depth preview of this game click on the Tribe Blitz link on this page.

Dillon @ Cheraw..... On paper this should be a monster match-up in 2A football. The last couple of seasons Dillon has had Cheraw's number. Dillon will win again this season, but I look for a better effort by Cheraw..... Dillon 27 Cheraw 17

Greer @ Seneca..... This should be a very interesting upstate 3A battle. Seneca is an improving program and Greer is a program that has been a little down, by their standards, the last couple of seasons. I see Greer getting the win in this one..... Greer 20 Seneca 14

Irmo @ Dutch Fork..... This rivalry game in the midlands could be the best game of Week 0. These two rivals split two games last season and this one should be a barn burner. In a match-up this even, I am going to take the home team..... Dutch Fork 24 Irmo 21

Williston-Elco @ Strom Thurmond..... This is another game that looks good on paper. I believe it will look good on the field as well..... Strom Thurmond 20 Williston-Elco 16

Easley @ West-Oak..... The Easley Green Wave were an improved team last season. I believe they will be pretty good this season and they will win this game..... Easley 28 West-Oak 10

York @ Lewisville..... The York Cougars and their fans are excited about the new season. They have a new Head Coach and a new attitude. They will have a 1 and 0 record after Week 0..... York 24 Lewisville 13

Walhalla @ Palmetto..... I look for Palmetto to pull away in the second half of this game and hold on for the win..... Palmetto 26 Walhalla 17

THE ARMCHAIR COACH'S SPORTS TRIVIA QUESTION.....

What High School football team in South Carolina has won the most State Championships?

Anyone with an answer can leave a comment. I will give the answer in next Thursday's Week 1 Football Picks blog.

Have you ever wondered how teams got their names? I am going to start a series of special blogs about team names. The first will be on Tuesday August 23, 2011. Tuesday we will look at Clemson.

Until Next Time.

SPORTS BITS

The ArmChair Coach has been on a hiatus since March 15, 2011 but, I have awaken from my hibernation and I am getting ready for some FOOTBALL. Before I start to focus on the fast approaching football season, I would like to blog about some of the sports topics that have been going on during my four month hiatus. I call them SPORTS BITS. I hope you enjoy and I would love to hear your comments on my SPORTS BITS.

THE ATLANTA BRAVES are following up their wildcard season from last year with another good season this year. As of today they are 59 and 43, six games back in the National League East. They have the second best record in the National league behind their East Division rivals the Philadelphia Phillies. The Braves are five games up in the wildcard race. They have won even though they have only had their opening day line-up on the field together for ONLY 11 GAMES. They are 3rd from the bottom in team batting average, 8th in runs scored. How is this team winning games? They are winning with great starting pitching, the best bullpen in baseball, strong defense and timely hitting. In my opinion, 1b Freddie Freeman or closer Craig Kimbrell should win rookie of the year. I think the Braves will make a run for the NL East title but, I see them winning the wildcard again this season. I think they need to make a couple of moves for another right-handed hitter and a right-hander for the bullpen. I look for Dan Uggla and Jason Heyward to have big second halves. The Braves should be a big factor in October. Can they make it to the World Series?

THE SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS baseball team repeated as College World Series Champions! They had a tremendous season and an unbelievable post season run. They went undefeated during their post season run to the National Championship. I really like the way this team played the last two seasons. If they had another name on their jersey besides Carolina, I could pull for them. Me being a Clemson fan I just couldn't do it but, being a sports fan, I know a great team when I see one. They were not the most talented team in the country but, they were the best. Can they three-peat?

THE MIAMI HEAT the team the media loved and thought would start a dynasty in the NBA, lost the NBA Championship to the Dallas Mavericks in six games. I was very happy that they lost. I am a Lakers fan and if the Lakers couldn't win the title again, I wanted anybody but the Heat. Will Lebron James win his first NBA Championship next season?

THE NFL LOCKOUT has been the big news in the football world since March. As of today they have finally agreed on terms that will end the lockout. My question is, why did it take so long to get it done? If they would have kept their egos out of the negotiations, they could have gotten it done before now. When it came down to possibly missing preseason games and losing money, they finally got it done. IT IS ABOUT TIME! After four and a half months it is time for NFL FOOTBALL.

It is good to be back from my four month hiatus and blogging about sports again. I look forward to another exciting football season and you can look forward to my football picks again this season. My first week of football picks will be in Week 0 of the High School football season on August 19th. My next blog will be next week.

Until Next Time.

DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS? IT'S MARCH MADNESS TIME!

Well it is that time of the year again. The time that all college basketball fans live for. IT'S MARCH MADNESS TIME!!! The brackets are set, the teams are ready and the fans have their food and drinks in the fridge. The tournament has expanded to 68 teams this year and we have two first round games tonight and two tomorrow night. Tonight's match-ups are UNC-Asheville vs Arkansas-Little Rock, with the winner to be the 16th seed in the Southeast Region and a game with No. 1 seed Pittsburg. The other match-up tonight has Alabama-Birmingham vs Clemson, with the winner to be the 12th seed in the East Region and a game with 5th seed West Virginia on Thursday afternoon. Tomorrow evening the match-ups are Texas-San Antonio vs Alabama State, with the winner to be the 16th seed in the East Region and a game with NO. 1 seed Ohio State. The other match-up tomorrow evening will be Virginia Commonwealth vs Southern California, with the winner to be the 11th seed in the Southwest Region and a game with 6th seed Georgetown.

THE FOUR NUMBER 1 SEEDS..... are Ohio State in the East Region, Duke in the West Region, Kansas in the Southwest Region and Pittsburg in the Southeast Region. I agree with all but one of the Number 1 seeds. I would not have given Duke a Number 1 seed. I would have either had UCONN or Notre Dame as the forth NO.1 seed.

THINGS THAT I DISAGREE WITH.....(1) I know the Big East is a very strong conference, but I DON'T THINK any conference should get 11 teams in the NCAA Tournament. Over half of a conference should not get in! No more than half of a conference should get a bid.....(2) Michigan State and Tennessee are talented teams, but they underachieved this season and should not be in the tournament.....(3) Florida should not be a NO. 2 seed. I would have given it to Kentucky.....(4) Colorado should be in the tournament instead of Kansas State. They beat K-State three times this season. When teams are close, head to head match-ups should mean something.....(5) The ACC should have gotten a 5th team in the tournament. I think Virginia Tech should have gotten in.

THE ARMCHAIR COACH'S FINAL FOUR..... I have Ohio State winning the East Region, UCONN winning the West Region, Notre Dame winning the Southwest Region and Pittsburg winning the Southeast Region. I have two NO. 1 seeds, one NO. 2 seed and one NO. 3 seed in my Final Four.

DID YOU KNOW? The Clemson Tigers made the NCAA Tournament for the 4th consecutive year. This is a program first.

DID YOU KNOW? Duke and Clemson are the only ACC teams to make the NCAA Tournament in each of the last four seasons.

Until Next Time.

SUPER BOWL XLV RECAP

The Green Bay Packers won Super Bowl XLV, Sunday in Dallas, 31 to 25 over the Pittsburg Steelers. The Packers have now won four Super Bowls and thirteen total NFL Titles, more than any other team. The Lombardi Trophy has come back to Title Town, USA. Let's look at the game.

FIRST QUARTER

The Packers jumped ahead 14 to 0 on a 29-yard TD pass from Aaron Rodgers to Jordy Nelson and an interception return of 37-yards for a TD from Nick Collins. Packers dominate the 1st quarter and lead 14 to 0 after the first 15 minutes.

SECOND QUARTER

With 11:08 left in the 2nd quarter Pittsburg finally got on the scoreboard with a 33-yard field goal to cut the Green Bay lead to 14 to 3. Later in the quarter, the Packers would force their second turnover of the game, with another interception, which they turned into another Rodgers TD pass, this one a 21-yard toss to Greg Jennings. The Green Bay lead was 21 to 3 with 2:24 left in the 1st half. The Steelers then got the ball and drove down and scored a momentum changing TD on an 8-yard pass from Ben Roetlisberger to Hines Ward with 39 seconds left in the half. The Steelers not only cut the Packers lead to 21 to 10, but they had all of the momentum going into the 3rd quarter. The score at halftime of Super Bowl XLV was Green Bay 21 Pittsburg 10.

THIRD QUARTER

The Pittsburg defense came out in the 3rd quarter fired up. They held the Green Bay offense to a three and out. The Steelers got the football and marched right down the field, all on the ground, and scored a TD on an 8-yard run from Mendenhall, to cut the Packers' lead to 21 to 17. The Steelers dominated the 3rd quarter, but could only score the one TD. The score after the 3rd quarter was 21 to 17 in favor of Green Bay.

FORTH QUARTER

The quarter started with Pittsburg driving into Green Bay territory looking like they were going to take the lead and control of the game. The Packers' defense came up big, as they forced turnover number three, a fumble caused by Clay Matthews. The Green Bay offense would drive the ball down the field and score on the third TD pass of the game by Aaron Rodgers. He found Greg Jennings from 8-yards for his second TD catch of the game. The Packers seemed in control of the game again at 28 to 17 with 11:57 left in the game. Big Ben and the Steelers were not dead yet, as they drove the ball down the field and scored on a 25-yard pass from Roetlisberger to Mike Wallace. The Steelers also got a 2-point conversion to cut the Packers' lead to 28 to 25 with 7:34 left in the game. The Packers then came up with a huge drive of their own, as they ate up 5:27 off of the clock, but could only score a field goal to increase their lead to 31 to 25. The door was left open for Big Ben to do his late game magic. After the kickoff, the Steelers got the ball on their 13-yard line. They were 87-yards away from victory, but they only had one timeout left. They completed a couple of passes, but it came down to a forth down to keep the drive and dream alive. The pass was broken up by the Packers and the NFL Championship was going back to Title Town, USA. Final score of Super Bowl XLV Green Bay Packers 31 Pittsburg Steelers 25.

Did You Know? Aaron Rodgers was named the MVP of Super Bowl XLV. His stats for the game was 24 of 39 for 304 yards and 3 TD passes and 0 INT's.

*****The ArmChair Coach Game Ball Of The Week also goes to Packers QB Aaron Rodgers*****

We have come to the end of another football season. For the season The ArmChair Coach went 145 and 52 in football picks for a percentage of .736. It has been another fun and exciting football season. The ArmChair Coach will still be around, as I will be blogging about all kinds of topics in the sports world.

Until Next Time.

SUPER BOWL XLV PREVIEW

Well it is time for the biggest football game of them all, THE SUPER BOWL. I'll bet that Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones can hardly stand it that two of the Cowboys old nemesis are playing the big game in his new stadium. The Pittsburg Steelers vs the Green Bay Packers, it don't get much better than this. Two of the NFL's most storied teams and two of the NFL's most popular teams square off in Jerry Jones house for the NFL Championship! I like it! Lets look at this historical Super Bowl match-up.

PITTSBURG STEELERS VS GREEN BAY PACKERS

Pittsburg..... The Steelers were 12 and 4 during the regular season and are the AFC North Champions and the Number 2 Seed in the AFC. They defeated the rival Baltimore Ravens and the NY Jets during the playoffs to become 2010 AFC Champions. They have an overall record of 14 and4 coming into Super Bowl XLV. They have won 6 Super Bowls in 7 tries which is the most Super Bowls won by any NFL team.

Offense..... The Steelers scored 375 points during the regular season for an average of 23.4 per game. Their offense also averaged 225.1 passing per game for 14th in the NFL. They averaged 120.3 yards rushing which was 11th in the NFL. So they averaged 345.4 yards per game for the regular season. For their two playoff wins they have averaged 27.5 per game. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger missed the first four games of the season due to suspension, but he still had a productive season with 17 TD passes and 5 INTs for 3,200 yards. Big Ben is trying to win his third Super Bowl Title in six years.

Defense..... The Steelers gave up 232 points during the regular season for an average of 14.5 per game. They were Number 1 in the NFL in the fewest points allowed. They gave up 214.1 yards per game passing which was 12th in the NFL. They also gave up 62.8 yards per game rushing which was 1st in the NFL. Their defense gave up an average of 276.9 yards per game. During the playoffs they have given up an average of 21.5 per game. They are led on defense by S Troy Polamalu with 7 INTs and James Harrison with 10.5 sacks.

Green Bay..... The Packers were 10 and 6 during the regular season and were a wild card in the NFC playoffs. They were the Number 6 seed in the NFC playoffs. They defeated the Eagles, Falcons and Bears, all Division winners, on the road to become 2010 NFC Champions. They have an overall record of 13 and 6 coming into Super Bowl XLV. The Packers have won an NFL high 12 NFL Championships including 3 Super Bowls. Green Bay, Wisconsin is called Titletown, USA.

Offense..... The Packers scored 388 points during the regular season for an average of 24.3 per game. Their offense also averaged 257.8 passing yards per game for 5th in the NFL. They averaged 100.4 yards rushing which was 24th in the NFL. So they averaged 358.2 yards per game for the regular season. During their playoff run they have averaged 30.o points per game. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has had a very good year, as he has passed for 28 TDs and 11 INTs and 3,922 yards. Rodgers is playing in his first Super Bowl.

Defense..... The Packers gave up 240 points during the regular season for an average of 15.0 per game. The Packers were Number 2 in the NFL in fewest points allowed, just behind the Steelers. They gave up 194.2 yards per game passing which was 5th in the NFL. They gave up 114.9 yards rushing per game which was 18th in the NFL. Their defense gave up a total of 309.1 yards per game. During the playoffs they have given up 17.0 points per game. They are led on defense by LB Clay Matthews with 13.5 sacks and DB Tramon Williams with 6 INTs.

Intangibles..... This is Pittsburg's third Super Bowl in six years and they have 25 players who have played in the Super Bowl. This is the second Super Bowl as Head Coach for Mike Tomlin, who became the youngest Head Coach in NFL history to win the Super Bowl when they beat the Cardinals. Roethlisberger is starting in his third Super Bowl in six years, he won his previous two.

This will be the Packers first Super Bowl since 1997, their second in a row with Brett Favre, which they lost to the Denver Broncoes. The Packers have 2 players that have played in the Super Bowl. This will be Head Coach Mike McCarthy's first Super Bowl as a Head Coach. Aaron Rodgers will be making his first start in his first Super Bowl.

Game Prediction..... This should be a very good and evenly matched Super Bowl between two storied teams. The offense favors the Packers and the defense favors the Steelers. They say defense wins championships and offense puts fans in the seats. The intangibles favor the Steelers. I am going against the experience and the better defense because I just feel like the Packers are playing better during the playoffs..... Green Bay 20 Pittsburg 17

Did You Know? These two teams have won a combined 9 Super Bowls. Pittsburg 6 and Green Bay 3. Pittsburg's 6 is the most Super Bowl wins. Green Bay has a total of 12 NFL Championships, 9 before there was a Super Bowl and 3 Super Bowls.

Until Next Time.

Enjoy The Game.