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Top5
Tony's top five...NFL quarterbacks of all-time
Tony's Top 5
NFL quarterbacks of all-time
5
Troy Aikman. One of the great big-game quarterbacks of all-time, his regular-season stats don’t impress. But he was a winner.
4
John Elway. OK, so he didn’t win a Super Bowl until Terrell Davis came along. But he the arm, head and guts. Complete package.
3
Peyton Manning. When it’s all over, he will go down as the greatest passer of all-time. With another title or two, he could be more.
2
Tom Brady. The closest thing to Joe Montana since Montana retired. Had the Pats won Super Bowl XLII, he might have been No. 1.
1
Joe Montana. In four Super Bowl appearances, Montana went 4-0 and threw 11 touchdowns with no interceptions. Enough said.
Tony's Week 9 NFL picks against the spread
Tony's Top 5
Week 9 NFL picks against the spread
5
NY Giants -5 over San Diego. So Eli Manning hasn't been playing well of late. So what? Something suggests that the Giants are going to run wild in this game.
4
Indy-Houston Over 48. Not impressed much by the Houston defense and the Colts have injuries in the secondary. Winning money on games like this should qualify as a misdemeanor.
3
Miami +10 1/2 at New England. Pats will win this game, but spread seems unusually high for a divisional game against a well-coached team. Are Pats as good against the run as we think?
2
New Orleans -13 at Carolina. Normally would take a big number at home, but what happens when Jake Delhomme has to start throwing in the game. Bar the door.
1
Green Bay -9 1/2 at Tampa Bay. Packers got humiliated by Favre last week and Tampa Bay's pass defense stinks. Aaron Rodgers will shred this team.
Tony's Top 5 reasons for Alex’ Rodriguez newfound October success
Tony's Top 5
Reasons for Alex’ Rodriguez newfound October success
5
The law of averages. Look, he’s been a good player for a long time. He was bound to start hitting in the playoffs sooner or later.
4
We emphasized the negative. Through Game 3 of the 2004 ALCS, Rodriguez had a .372 average and 1.059 OPS in 22 career postseason games. Look it up.
3
Kate Hudson.Ever hear the saying, "Behind every successful man stands a strong woman?" Maybe it’s true.
2
Mark Teixeira.The Yankees have a newer, highly-paid player to pick on. And don’t look now, but he was batting .133 through Game 4.
1
Inner peace. Earlier this season, with the steroids scandal behind him, Rodriguez said he felt liberated. Maybe he’s growing up.
Tony's Top 5 NFL power rankings
Tony's Top 5
NFL power rankings
5
Broncos. OK, we’re convinced. Kyle Orton is now 26-12 in his career as a starter. Josh McDaniels looks like a real coach. And the defense is much improved.
4
Saints. Went into Philly and beat the Eagles, went into New York and beat the Jets. Better defense than we thought. Right?
3
Vikings. If you’re a Vikes fan, Brett Favre should scare you come playoff time. But in the regular season? So far, so good.
2
Colts. Don’t look now, but only three teams in the NFL have allowed fewer points than Indy. And have we mentioned the quarterback?
1
Giants. They can run, pass and play defense. And did we mention they’re well-coached? Who needs Plaxico?
Tony's Top 5 things to keep an eye on in the AL Division Series
Tony's Top 5
Things to keep an eye on in the AL Division Series
5
David Ortiz. As encouraging as he was at the finish, he batted .186 in the postseason last year. How the Angels approach him could be revealing.
4
Clay Buchholz. His last two starts weren’t good and he has shown some propensity to get rattled. How will he fare in Game 3?
3
The bullpen. Specifically, we’re talking about the eighth inning. Daniel Bard has never been here before. Don’t be surprised if there are glitches.
2
The Los Angeles running game. The Angels are aggressive and the Red Sox can’t throw anybody out. Sounds like the potential for a bad mix, no?
1
Josh Beckett. Given his history, expectations are great. Still, he hasn’t been at the top of his game for a little while. Discuss.
Tony's Top 5 NFL observations entering Week 3
Tony's Top 5
NFL observations entering Week 3
5
The Rams stink. OK, so that's hardly a news flash. But in the race for worst team of 2009, we now have a winner. Whatever happeend to the Greatest Show on Turf?
4
The Broncos aren't that good. With a win over Oakland this week, rookie head coach Josh McDaniels will be a perfect 3-0. Wanna bet the Broncos finish no better than 8-8?
3
Bet over on Bills-Saints. Don't look now, but the Ravens and Bills have scored the most points in the AFC. All together now: what's wrong with this picture?
2
Titans will beat the Jets. Titans are desperate and Jets are due for a letdown. Think Rex Ryan was leaving messages again for Jets fans this week?
1
The Patriots will beat the Falcons. Maybe this is nothing more than blind faith, but in Bill and Tom we trust. Of course, if they lose, we reserve the right to panic.
Tony's Top 5 Super Bowl favorites
Tony's Top 5
Super Bowl favorites
5
Chicago Bears. Looks like the Bears finally have a quarterback. But last year, incredibly, the quarterback wasn’t the only problem.
4
New York Giants. Until l’affair Plaxico, they looked like a cinch to repeat. Lots of questions still. Lots of talent, too.
3
New England Patriots. Tandem of Belichick-Brady is the best in the business, but the defense is going to need some work.
2
Pittsburgh Steelers. Defending Super Bowl champs have all the ingredients again. Three titles in five years?
1
San Diego Chargers. Lots of talent and soft division could have them positioned well come January. But is Norv Turner the right coach?
Tony's Top 5 pitching tandems in baseball
Tony's Top 5
Pitching tandems in baseball
5
Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. The latter isn't having a great year, but he's starting to pick it up. How many teams have a pair of lefties like this one?
4
CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett. Major questions in the postseason here, but in terms of firepower, the Yankees have it. When they're on, they're as tough as anyone.
3
Josh Beckett and Jon Lester. Of course, if Beckett gets his groove back, we reserve the right to elevate this pairing in the power rankings.
2
Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain. If you were building a young tandem to build a team around, this is it -- talent, power and promise. What more is there?
1
Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter. As of today, they form the best tandem in baseball. Don't discount the Cardinals. They've assembled a lot of talent there.
Tony's Top 5: Former Red Sox to critique down the stretch
Tony's Top 5
Former Red Sox to critique down the stretch
5
Mark Kotsay. In his first 14 games with Chicago, he hit .229. Still, have the Red Sox missed his versatility?
4
Julio Lugo. No one complained when he was shipped away, but he had an .857 OPS in his first 24 games with St. Louis. Go figure.
3
Justin Masterson. Shut down the Angels last week and had a 3.78 ERA in his first four games (three starts) with the Indians.
2
John Smoltz. Nine strikeouts and no runs in five innings against the Padres on Sunday. Is the National League a joke or what?
1
Manny Ramirez. Since returning from suspension Siberia, he had a .277 average and 25 RBI in his first 45 games. Where's the juice?
Tony's Top 5: Most overrated NFL quarterbacks
Tony's Top 5
Most overrated NFL quarterbacks
5
Ben Roethlisberger. Minus 2007, his career numbers are extremely mediocre. Thank heavens for the mighty Pittsburgh defense.
4
Jay Cutler. He’s 17-20 in his career as a starter. It’s easy to put up numbers when you’re always behind – and throwing.
3
Eli Manning. Efficient, yes. But a great quarterback? No. Erase the connections to New York and his brother and you get … what?
2
Brett Favre. Once one of the greatest players in league history, he’s now a relatively ordinary mistake-prone quarterback.
1
Michael Vick. Lots of flash, little substance. Has never passed for 3,000 yards or more than 20 TD in a season.
Tony's Top 5: Playoff races in Red Sox history
Tony's Top 5
Playoff races in Red Sox history
5
1990. The Sox got wiped out in the playoffs, but will anyone ever forget Tom Brunansky’s catch? Trivia: who hit the ball that Brunansky caught?
4
1948. The year that produced the famous one-game playoff game against Cleveland. When Denny Galehouse started, the Sox were finished.
3
1949. The Sox went into New York on the final weekend needing to win once in a two-game series to secure the division. They lost both.
2
1978. Know what people forget? The Sox won eight in a row to force the playoff with the Yankees. Then they lost by one run.
1
1967. The Sox went into the final weekend tied for first place, then swept the Twins. After the game … well, you know the rest.
Tony's Top 5: Observations from the Patriots’ first preseason game
Tony's Top 5
Observations from the Patriots’ first preseason game
5
The running game looks better without Laurence Maroney. Six carries, 14 yards. Meanwhile, Sammy Morris and Benjarvis Green—Ellis ran wild.
4
Julian Edelman is the next Wes Welker. OK, so maybe that’s a stretch. But the kid looks like he has potential. How do the Pats do it?
3
The pass rush should be better. Tully Banta-Cain had one of the two Pats’ sacks in the first half. And you have to like that the Pats played a lot of 4-3 defense.
2
The secondary has hope. Jonathan Wilhite looked like he played a pretty strong game. Darius Butler and Patrick Chung also made some plays.
1
Tom Brady still has it. If the knee holds up, he’ll be fine. That 35-yard strike to Randy Moss in the second quarter was a thing of beauty.
Tony's Top 5: Leading candidates to win the World Series
Tony's Top 5
Leading candidates to win the World Series
5
Red Sox. OK, so they had a horrible week. But if they can get their act together and make the playoffs, does anyone really want to face them?
4
Angels. Strange year in Anaheim –- the Angels can hit, but can't pitch. Regardless, they went 37-12 over a 49-game stretch beginning June 12.
3
Phillies. Defending champions have skidded some of late, but they’re still a virtual lock to win the National League East. Aren't they?
2
Dodgers. They've been the best team in the National League all year long, ranking ion the top three in pitching, hitting and defense. What's left?
1
Yankees. After cleaning up on the Red Sox, they were 54-25 since May 13. Do the math. Over 162 games, that's a 111-win pace.
Tony's Top 5: Deadline pickups in Red Sox history
Tony's Top 5
Deadline pickups in Red Sox history
5
Joe Rudi and Rollie Fingers for cash. Commissioner Bowie Kuhn negated the deal, but can't we dream about how Red Sox history might have been impacted in 1976 and beyond?
4
Frankie Rodriguez for Rick Aguilera. The Sox needed a closer in 1995. Aguilera subsequently went 20 of 21 in save opportunities -- at least until the postseason.
3
Brady Anderson and Curt Schilling for Mike Boddicker. Two more clubs gave up on Schilling after the Red Sox did. Boddicker help the '88 Sox to the postseason.
2
Rey Quinones, Mike Brown, Mike Trujillo, and John Christensen for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen. The Sox came thisclose to winning it in '86.
1
Nomar Garciaparra and Matt Murton for Orlando Cabrera and Doug Mientkiewicz. The trade that helped the Sox win the 2004 World Series and end an 86-year drought.
Tony's Top 5: Non Red Sox of all-time
Tony's Top 5
Favorite non Red Sox of all-time
5
Paul Molitor One of the most complete offensive players of all-time, he could drive the ball, bunt for hits, run and produce in the clutch.
4
George Brett. His 1,119 extra base hits included 665 doubles, 317 homers and 137 triples. Great guy, too.
3
Derek JeterRealistically, you could hit him anywhere from 1 through 9 - even without cleanup-type power. The consummate winner.
2
Ken Griffey Jr. If he wanted to, he could have stolen 30 bases a year for the majority of his career. He chose to save his legs.
1
Roberto Alomar He was, quite possibly, The Perfect Player. Gap power, great speed, 10 Gold Gloves and a switch-hitter to boot.
Tony's Top 5: Albums of all-time
Tony's Top 5
Albums of all-time
5
Thriller, Michael Jackson. Love him or hate him, Michael Jackson had serious talent. Hard to exclude the No. 1-selling album of all-time.
4
Led Zeppelin IV. Stairway to Heaven. Misty Mountain Hop. When the Levee Breaks. Black Dog. That's serious stuff.
3
Back in Black, AC/DC. Maybe the greatest heavy metal album ever made. A 21-gun salute to Malcolm and Angus Young.
2
Joshua Tree, U2. Anyone who likes music should have this in their top 10. Hard to believe it was released more than 20 years ago.
1
Born to Run, Bruce Springsteen. The album that put The Boss on the cover of Time Magazine. If you buy one CD, make it this one.
Tony's Top 5: Highlights of the Garciaparra years
Tony's Top 5
Highlights of the Garciaparra years
5
July 23, 2002. In a 22-4 Sox win over Tampa Bay, Garciaparra went 3 for 5 with three homers and eight RBIs -- on his 29th birthday, no less.
4
June 21, 2003. In a 6-5 loss at Philadelphia, Garciaparra went 6 for 6 with a walk. Three days later, in 10-1 win over Detroit, he went 5 for 5.
3
Summer 1997. During his rookie season, from July 26 to Aug. 29, Garciaparra batted .383 with nine homers during a 30-game hitting streak.
2
October 1998-99. In his first two career postseasons, Garciaparra batted .383 with seven homers and five doubles while slugging .986. Yikes.
1
May 10, 1999. In an epic performance against Seattle, Garciaparra went 3 for 4 with three homers, two of them grand slams, and 10 RBIs.
Tony's Top 5: Celebrity eccentrics and/or recluses
Tony's Top 5
Celebrity eccentrics and/or recluses
5
Bobby Fischer. American chess prodigy dueled with Boris Spassky and then disappeared for roughly two decades. The classic tortured genius.
4
J.D. Salinger. First he gave us Holden Caulfield, then he effectively withdrew from society. Not to be confused with Terence Mann.
3
Michael Jackson. Now you know who inspired this list. The mad scientist of entertainment, Jacko was wacko ... and brilliant.
2
Greta Garbo. Iconic American actress effectively vanished after her career by moving to New York, where she became the needle in the haystack.
1
Howard Hughes. One of the most complex and fascinating figures in American history, he is said to have bottled his own urine. Odd, no?
Tony's Top 5: Things to eat during the summer
Tony's Top 5
Things to eat during the summer
5
Ice cream. Obvious, right? But we’re not talking about Haagen-Dazs. Go to a local stand and forgo the chain stores.
4
Spaghetti al limone. Do a Google search for the simple recipe and use linguine. Fast. Refreshing. Different.
3
Corn on the cob. Brush it with a little olive oil or butter and lightly salt. Then grill it. Trust me on this one.
2
Clams. Bellies or strips, steamed or fried. We prefer the steamahs, but go to your local shack and choose.
1
Lobster. If have a gas grill, buy the lobster pot attachment. Melt your own butter. Add some lemon. Nothing better.
Tony's Top 5: Sports quotes
Tony's Top 5
Sports quotes
5
"Wake up the damn Bambino and maybe I'll drill him." -- Pedro Martinez
4
"We can't win at home. We can't win on the road. As general manager, I just can't figure out where else to play." -- Former Orlando Magic GM Pat Williams
3
"I can't really remember the names of the clubs that we went to." -- Shaquille O'Neal when asked if he had visited the Parthenon during a trip to Greece.
2
"I'm in favor of it." -- Former Tampa Bay Bucs John McKay when asked about his team's "execution."
1
"I told him, 'Son, what is it with you? Is it ignorance or apathy?' He said, 'Coach, I don't know and I don't care.'" -- Former Utah Jazz coach Frank Layden
Tony's Top 5: Most hopeless franchises in baseball
Tony's Top 5
Most hopeless franchises in baseball
5
Houston Astros. Since losing the 2005 World Series to the White Sox, they were 266-274 through June 7. The embodiment of mediocrity.
4
Colorado Rockies. In retrospect, that `07 Series run was an enormous fluke. With all due respect, how has Dan O'Dowd survived?
3
San Diego Padres. You know it's bad when a team is 26-30 after 56 games and everyone thinks, "Hey, that's not bad."
2
Pittsburgh Pirates. GM Neal Huntington had to rationalize the Nate McLouth deal in an e-mail to season-ticket holders and got ripped by Adam LaRoche. Yikes.
1
Washington Nationals. After the draft is completed, feel free to swap the Nationals with the Pirates if you are so inclined. Stephen Strasburg could be that good.
Tony's Top 5: Excuses on the golf course
Tony's Top 5
Excuses on the golf course
5
"I have no tempo." The rest of us can see this. You look like you're weeding.
4
"I can't remember the last time I played." No kidding. The human mind blocks out trauma.
3
"The club slipped in my hands." Really? For a minute there, we thought you just stink.
2
"I had a bad lie." How ironic. First you had one, then you told one.
1
"I picked my head up." With the way you play, maybe you should just leave it on the ground?
Tony's Top 5: Most fascinating people in Boston sports
Tony's Top 5
Most fascinating people in Boston sports
5
Doc Rivers. Has successfully coached young players and veteran ones in an egocentric league. Shoots straight. Fears nothing.
4
Randy Moss. Onetime NFL problem child has stayed on the straight and narrow in New England. Talk about a rehabilitated image.
3
Kevin Garnett. He's smart, articulate, intense and competitive. Our only regret should be that he didn't spend more time here.
2
Tom Brady. Part Joe Namath and part Joe Montana, he has a supermodel wife and three Super Bowl titles. Where does he go from here?
1
Bill Belichick. At once, he is uncompromising, uncooperative and unrelenting. When it comes to football, he's unmatched.
Top 5: Busts in Red Sox history
Tony's Top 5
Busts in recent Red Sox history
5
Robinson Checo. He wasn't a draft pick, per se, but there was a great deal of hype about him at the time he was signed. Whereabouts: Unknown.
4
Brian Rose. Along with Carl Pavano, he was once a golden child. He ended up with 15 career wins and 5.86 ERA. Pavano goes on.
3
Kevin Morton. In his first major league start, he whiffed nine in a complete game, 10-1 win. If Clay Buchholz fails, he'll be compared to Morton.
2
Craig Hansen. Now serves as the poster boy for what can happen when a young man is burdened with too much too soon. Buyer beware.
1
Frankie Rodriguez. After all of that hype as both a pitcher and position player, he got traded and flamed out. Career ERA: 5.53.
Tony's Top 5: MLB performers in April
Tony's Top 5
MLB performers in April
5
Heath Bell, Padres. In his first month, Trevor Hoffman's successor had eight saves, nine strikeouts, and a 0.00 ERA in nine appearances.
4
Raul Ibanez, Phillies. Joined the world champs and posted a 1.151 OPS in his first month while batting .359 with seven homers.
3
Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox. His April totals – a 1.203 OPS, five home runs and 15 RBIs – bore an eerier resemblance to those of Manny Ramirez (1.154, 5, 15).
2
Albert Pujols, Cardinals. The best hitter in baseball had 28 RBIs and eight home runs while batting .337. Triple Crown?
1
Zack Greinke, Royals. Indisputably the best pitcher or player in baseball so far this year. In April, he went 5-0.
Tony's Top 5: Years in Boston sports history
Tony's Top 5
Years in Boston sports history
5
1967. Just as the Celtics began another NBA championship season, the Red Sox pulled off the Impossible Dream. Baseball became king.
4
1976. The Celtics won the title, the Bruins reached the finals, the Patriots went 11-3, and the Red Sox were defending AL champions.
3
2004. The Patriots won the Super Bowl and the Red Sox won the World Series. Then the Patriots dominated again en route to another title.
2
1986. Until recently, the best year in city history. All four teams went to the playoffs, three of them reaching the finals.
1
2007. An undefeated NFL regular season, a World Series title, a basketball renaissance and a hockey reconstruction. Nice.
Tony's Top 5: Patriots draft classes
Tony's Top 5
Patriots draft classes
5
1995. Ty Law, Ted Johnson, Curtis Martin, Dave Wohlabaugh. Two potential Hall-of-Famers there in Law and Martin.
4
1983. Tony Eason, Stephen Starring, Steve Moore, Johnny Rembert, Craig James, Ronnie Lippett. By 1986, they were in the Super Bowl.
3
1982. Kenneth Sims, Andre Tippett, Robert Weathers, Cedric Jones, Clayton Weishuhn and Fred Marion. Bumper crop.
2
1976. Another year with three first-rounders: Mike Haynes, Pete Brock, and Tim Fox. That fall, the Pats had one of their best teams ever.
1
1973. The Pats took John Hannah, Sam Cunningham, and Darryl Stingley in the first round, Ray Hamilton in the 14th.
Tony's Top 5: Major league stadiums (Outside of Boston)
Tony's Top 5
Major league stadiums (Outside of Boston)
5
Kauffman Stadium. Water fountains and easy access to both clubhouses. One of the more underrated stops on tour.
4
Safeco Field. Revolutionized stadium art with sushi, a retractable roof, and actual power alleys. No cheap homers allowed.
3
Wrigley Field. Have to admit: Watching a game there feels like a journey in time. Is that how outsiders see Fenway?
2
Yankee Stadium. Haven't been to the new place yet, but no better atmosphere in baseball. Never a shortage of intensity.
1
Camden Yards. The playing field is too small, but it set the standard for modern stadium construction. Great setup for fans.
Tony's Top 5: Red Sox teams in history
Tony's Top 5
Red Sox teams in history
5
The 2007 team. Nothing too fancy, but they essentially led wire-to-wire. Counting postseason, they went 107-69.
4
The 1975-79 teams. Couldn't pick between '75 and '78, so we're taking the whole 5-year block. Only the current era is better.
3
The 1946 team. Went 104-50 during the regular season. Had they won the Series, we'd be calling them one of the greatest of all-time.
2
The 1967 team. The only negative is that they failed to win it all. But Red Sox history has never been the same since they came along.
1
The 2004 team. In their final 60 games, they went 30 games over .500. Think about that for a minute. What a wagon.
Tony's Top 5: Worst Red Sox trades in history
Tony's Top 5
Worst Red Sox trades in history
5
Jamie Moyer for Darren Bragg. Since the 1996 trade, Moyer has won more games than anyone but Greg Maddux, Randy Johnson, Andy Pettitte, and Mike Mussina.
4
Sparky Lyle for Danny Cater. Why the Red Sox gave him up is a mystery. Why they gave him to the Yankees is sheer stupidity.
3
Jeff Bagwell for Larry Andersen. Andersen was better here than many remember, but think: Would Theo Epstein ever have made this deal?
2
Carlton Fisk for ... nothing. OK, so it wasn't a trade. But because of a management blunder, Fisk became a free agent. What a giveaway.
1
Babe Ruth for cash. The management blunder by which all others forever will be measured. Makes the Lyle mistake look like a cracked windshield.
Tony's Top 5: Boston-area bars to watch the NCAA Tournament
Tony's Top 5
Boston-area bars to watch the NCAA Tournament
5
The Stadium, South Boston. The servers wear striped jerseys, just like the zebras. But don't blame the refs.
4
Sports Depot, Allston. An oldie but a goodie. Do they still have TVs in the rest rooms?
3
CBS Scene, Foxborough. The downside? It's a drive. The upside? More TVs than Best Buy -- and big ones, too.
2
Game On, Fenway Park. Wasn't there last week, but rumor has it the place was jammed. Coming soon: Baseball.
1
The Fours, Boston. Proximity to the Garden earns it the top spot. All but an official Hub landmark.
Tony's Top 5: Curt Schilling's most memorable games in Boston
Tony's Top 5
Curt Schilling's Most Memorable Games in Boston
5
July 14, 2005. Schilling debuts as Sox closer and gives up two in the ninth of an 8-6 loss to the Yankees.
4
Sept. 21, 2004. Schilling strikes out 14 and hands a 1-0 lead to Keith Foulke, who blows the save against Baltimore.
3
June 7, 2007. Schilling pitches a no-no for 8-2/3 before Oakland's Shannon Stewart singles to right.
2
Oct. 25, 2007. In Game 2 of the World Series, Schilling went 5-1/3 innings in a 2-1 win over Colorado.
1
Oct. 19, 2004. The original "bloody sock" game at Yankee Stadium. Final score: Red Sox 4, Yankees 2. History in the making.
Tony's Top 5 biggest cliches in the NCAA tourney
Tony's Top 5
Biggest cliches in the NCAA tourney
5
"When in doubt, pick the better conference". No kidding. For a second there, I was leaning toward the Patriot League over the Big East.
4
"Gonzaga is my sleeper". Gonzaga is a No. 4 seed this year. On another note, the Zags have reached the Sweet 16 once in seven years.
3
"I'm picking a lot of upsets". Well whoop-dee-do. Good for you. Why not just take a $5 bill and burn it?
2
"Guard play is key". Well duh. Guards handle the ball and, as we all know, possession is nine-tenths of the law.
1
"It's wide open this year". Can we stop with this? Most every year, the Final Four seems to consist of at least three teams seeded No. 1 or No. 2. Does anyone really think Siena has a shot?
Tony's Top 5 most overrated Boston sporting events
Tony's Top 5
Most overrated Boston sporting events
5
The Head of the Charles Regatta. Now there's a real urban activity: rowing.
4
Any New England Revolution game. Are they in season at the moment? Out of season? Does anyone really know?
3
The Game: Harvard-Yale. Bates and Bowdoin have a long rivalry, too. Do we make a big deal of that?
2
The Beanpot. Just by showing up, you get to play in the semfinals. What kind of tourney is that?
1
The Boston Marathon. Let's be honest: It's a cultural event. Can't we just have an annual block party?
Tony's Top 5 quarterbacks in NFL history
Tony's Top 5
Quarterbacks in NFL history
5
Dan Marino. Stuck at No. 5 because he never won a Super Bowl. But as a pure passer, there may have been no one better.
4
John Elway. Like Peyton Manning, he didn't get a Super Bowl title until he got help. But was losing ever really his fault?
3
Peyton Manning. Once he got a Super Bowl title, all bets were off. Could end up as the game's most accomplished passer. Ever.
2
Tom Brady. We learned early on that he was a prolific winner. Once he got Randy Moss and Wes Welker, he became a prolific passer, too.
1
Joe Montana. In four career Super Bowls, he went 4-0 while completing 68 percent of his passes for 1,142 yards, 11 TDs and no picks.
Tony's Top 5 favorite movies (post-1990)
Tony's Top 5
Favorite movies (post-1990)
5
"The Shawshank Redemption." Generally despise anything involving Tim Robbins -- except Susan Sarandon -- but it's hard to walk away from this one.
4
"My Cousin Vinny." Very light, very funny, very clever. For the record: Marisa Tomei knocks the socks off Kate Winslet.
3
"Good Will Hunting." The film that truly launched the careers of Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. To some degree, any native Bostonian should relate.
2
"Braveheart." Not much for historical epics, but this one is terrific. Heard of chick flicks? This is a film for the man's man. ("Gladiator" also rates.)
1
"In the Name of the Father." Daniel Day Lewis plays a member of the Guildford Four, unjustly accused of an IRA pub bombing. If you've never seen this movie, you should.
Tony's Top 5 places to eat in Fort Myers
Tony's Top 5
Places to eat in Fort Myers
5
Bistro 41. Good food, but make sure you go only if someone else (particularly your employer) is buying.
4
Macaroni Grill. Yes, it's a chain restaurant. But paesans like pasta and this place certainly has a lot of it.
3
Blue Pointe Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill. Rule of the road: Eat seafood in coastal areas only. Florida qualifies.
2
Blu Sushi. Fort Myers' version of Sonsie, it's a place for the beautiful people. But the sushi is good.
1
Mario's Meat Market and Deli. In Fort Myers, it's as authentic a deli as you can get. Try "The Godfather" sandwich.
Tony's Top 5 spring training storylines
Tony's Top 5
Spring training storylines
5
The NL West. No division in baseball is more unpredictable. The Diamondbacks should win it. The Giants could. Discuss.
4
The Phillies' title defense. During the offseason there really wasn't much talk about them. Can they win it again? Will they?
3
The return of the Rays. Talented, yes, but everything went right for them, too. Can they win now that everyone expects them to?
2
The Red Sox' health. Lots of talent ... and lots of questions. Will Mike Lowell return to form? Will Josh Beckett bounce back? Is David Ortiz on the decline?
1
The Yankees' soap opera. Amid the acquisitions of C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira, the Alex Rodriguez saga endures. Only in New York.
Tony's Top 5 best trades in Red Sox history
Tony's Top 5
Best trades in Red Sox history
5
Ted Cox, Bo Diaz, Mike Paxton and Rick Wise for Dennis Eckersley and Fred Kendall. Yes, Eckersley eventually fizzled in Boston, but for a time, he was an ace.
4
Nomar Garciaparra and Matt Murton for Orlando Cabrera and Doug Mientkiewicz. The trade that redefined Red Sox history. On paper, it doesn't look as important as it was.
3
Casey Fossum, Brandon Lyon, Jorge de la Rosa and Michael Goss for Curt Schilling. Schilling came to Boston to win a world title. He got two.
2
Heathcliff Slocumb for Jason Varitek and Derek Lowe. Since the deal, Varitek and Lowe have given the Sox 19 combined years of service. And counting.
1
Carl Pavano and Tony Armas Jr. for Pedro Martinez. During seven years in Boston, Martinez won two Cy Young Awards and a World Series. What a steal.
Tony's Top 5 best trades in Patriots history
Tony's Top 5
Best trades in Patriots history
5
Corey Dillon. Immediately after winning the 2004 Super Bowl, the Pats acquired Dillon for a second-round pick. Then they went out and repeated as champs.
4
Randy Moss. OK, so Moss hasn't won a Super Bowl here. But in exchange for a fourth-round pick, the Pats got a historic 2007 season.
3
Andre Tippett. In 1982, the Pats sent Russ Francis as the central figure in a multiplayer deal that included a host of picks. One of them turned into Tippett, now a Hall of Famer.
2
Pete Brock, Tim Fox, Horace Ivory and Raymond Clayborn. All were chosen with the picks the Pats received from San Francisco for QB Jim Plunkett in 1976.
1
Bill Belichick. You say compensation, we say trade. What's the difference. In the end, the Pats sent a first-round pick to the Jets for three Super Bowl titles.
Tony's Top 5 best trades in Bruins history
Tony's Top 5
Best trades in Bruins history
5
Rick Middleton. Acquired from the New York Rangers for Ken Hodge, Middleton scored 402 goals in 12 seasons in Boston. Only way to describe that deal: nifty.
4
Jean Ratelle, Brad Park and Joe Zanussi. In this deal, the Bruins gave up Carol Vadnais and an aging Phil Esposito. Classic case of buying low and selling high.
3
Cam Neely and Glen Wesley. Hockey's rough equivalent of the Heathcliff Slocumb-for-Jason Varitek and Derek Lowe deal -- except Neely was better than all of them.
2
Phil Esposito, Ken Hodge, Fred Stanfield. Before Espo went out for Ratelle and Park, he came in. Thus were born the Big Bad Bruins of the 1970s.
1
Ray Bourque. In October 1978, the Bruins traded goalie Ron Grahame to Los Angeles for a draft choice. That pick became the staple of their franchise for 20 years.
Tony's Top 5 trades in Celtics history
Tony's Top 5
Best trades in Celtics history
5
Dennis Johnson. Before the Celtics got him for Rick Robey, he was regarded as something of a problem child. Once he got here, he was good enough to have his number retired.
4
Kevin Garnett. In many franchises, a trade pickup like Garnett would qualify as No. 1 all-time. But for the C's, Garnett was just the most recent in a series of high-stakes swindles.
3
Robert Parish and Kevin McHale. Maybe the most lopsided deal in history, Red Auerbach essentially dealt two draft picks for two Hall of Famers.
2
Larry Bird. During the 1977-78 season, the Celtics traded Charlie Scott to LA for Kermit Washington, Don Chaney and a 1st-round pick. The C's took Bird with that pick.
1
Bill Russell. In 1956, Auerbach effectively dealt Ed Macauley and Cliff Hagan for the No. 2 pick in the draft. That choice became Bill Russell. Basketball history has never been the same.
Tony's Top 5 players to watch in the NFL playoffs
Tony's Top 5
Players to watch in the NFL playoffs
5
Kerry Collins. The Baltimore defense is one of the finest in the NFL, ranking third against the run. That will put great pressure on Collins and the Tennessee passing game.
4
DeAngelo Williams. Beginning in Week 8 against Arizona, Williams ran for a staggering 16 touchdowns in nine games. The Cards run defense is average. Do the math.
3
Kurt Warner. He passed for 381 yards in Week 8 at Carolina -- and the Cardinals lost. But generally speaking, as Warner goes, so goes Arizona.
2
Ben Roethlisberger. The Chargers have been susceptible to the pass, but the Pittsburgh QB was knocked silly in Week 17. If he's still ailing in any way, the Steelers could be in trouble.
1
Brian Westbrook. No single player in football may have more to do with his team's offensive success. Against the Giants, Westbrook had 59 total yards (in a loss) and 203 yards (in a win).
Tony's Top 5 coaches in Boston sports history
Tony's Top 5
Coaches in Boston sports history
5
Tommy Heinsohn, Celtics. In nine seasons with the Celtics, he won
two titles and oversaw the team with the best record in club history. Dick Williams also deserves consideration, but Heinsohn has more rings.
4
Bill Parcells, Patriots. The only coach on this list who has not won
a championship in Boston, he completely changed the way they Patriots are perceived. Maybe forever.
3
Terry Francona, Red Sox. In 2008, he became just the third Red Sox
skipper in history -- and first in more than 60 years -- to manage five consecutive seasons in Boston. Not a coincidence.
2
Bill Belichick, Patriots. Here's the scenario: Two weeks to prepare,
one game, each team has the same roster. You get to pick the coach. Would you even consider anyone else?
1
Red Auerbach, Celtics. With all due respect to Belichick, all
discussion on the king begins and ends with Red - at least unti somebody else wins more titles?
Tony's Top 5 current free agents you'd want to sign if it were 10 years ago
5
Nomar Garciaparra. From 1997-2000, there wasn't a better offensive player in baseball. Now 35, Garciaparra looks like a utility man at best.
4
Curt Schilling. A borderline Hall of Famer with an impeccable postseason history. If you were him, why would you possibly come back?
3
Pedro Martinez. A 3-time Cy Young winner, he's 17-15 wth a 4.74 ERA over the last three seasons. With all due respect, the writing is on the wall.
2
Frank Thomas. In a day and age where everyone wants a bargain, he can probably still help someone. But in 2008, he batted .240 with 8 homers and 30 RBIs.
1
Ken Griffey Jr. Like Thomas, he can probably still help someone. But at this stage of a wondrous career, do you really want to compare him to Willie Mays?
Tony's Top 5 reasons to still watch the NFL playoffs
Tony's Top 5
Reasons to still watch the NFL playoffs
5
The upset factor. Don't look now, but all four road teams are favored in this weekend's first round. You'll feel better about the Patriots when the Ravens destroy the Dolphins.
4
Matt Ryan. The former BC standout makes his postseason debut on Saturday at Arizona. Presumably, come Wednesday, Ryan will be name NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Big week.
3
Asante Samuel's revenge. Like the Patriots, the Eagles needed a miracle; unlike the Pats, they got one. Let's see if Samuel can hold onto that interception this year.
2
Colts-Chargers. In what looks to be the marquee matchup of Week 1, Peyton Manning and the streaking Colts face Philip Rivers and the streaking Chargers. Bet the over.
1
The Manning Brothers. Root against them if you want, but imagine the possibility of Peyton squaring off against Eli in Super Bowl XLIII. Of course, dad Archie would have to sit on the 50-yard line.
Tony's Top 5 biggest local sports stories of 2008
Tony's Top 5
Biggest local sports stories of 2008
5
Matt Cassel. Be honest. After Week 2 or Week 3, you turned off your television and said: "This kid just doesn't have it." Now you're scrambling to find ways for the Patriots to get something in return. Either way, be happy for him. He seems like a terrific young man.
4
Manny Ramirez. The Jon Lester story ranks right up there, too, but when Ramirez was traded, it marked the end of an era. The Sox are still feeling the aftershocks -- at least until the Mark Teixeira situation is resolved. With Manny, it was never, ever boring.
3
The Bruins. To suggest the Bruins are relevant again is a gross in justice. At this stage, they are nothing short of dynamic. Two years ago, the Bruins lost an astonishing 24 games by three goals or more. Know how many such games they've had this year? Zero.
2
Super Bowl XLII. OK, so it wasn't a particularly good experience, but it was still one of the biggest stories in the history of the NFL, let alone Boston and/or the Patriots. Truth be told, it should probably be No. 1, but it's the giving season. Let's think positive.
1
Banner 17. No matter how many championships this city wins, do not ever take them for granted. Titles are simply too hard to come by. By the way, in case you're wondering, Greg Oden is averaging 8.0 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.
Tony's Top 5 worst pitching contracts in baseball
Tony's Top 5
Worst pitching contracts in baseball
5
A.J. Burnett, five years, $82.5 million. First of all, he has an obvious injury history. Second, he was 69-66 entering this year, which just happened to be a contract season. By the time this one is up, we're willing to bet the Yankees will have their Matt Clement.
4
Kei Igawa, five years, $46 million*. Technically, this is just a five-year, $20 million contract. In reality, with a $26 million posting fee, the Yankees paid $46 million for a man who has been a complete bust. The Yankees should have just taken the cash and burned it.
3
Carlos Silva, four years, $48 million. We knew this was a bad deal at the time, but somehow, the contract actually has worsened over time. Silva still has three years left after going 4-15 with a 6.46 ERA. Without the contract, he'd have been released.
2
Jason Schmidt, three years, $47 million. With one year remaining on this contract, Schmidt is 1-4 with a 6.31 ERA in 25 2/3 innings during his career with the Dodgers. Deals like this one are why people get fired. Like the Yankees, the Dodgers should have toasted the money.
1
Barry Zito, seven years, $126 million. The king of all bad contracts. Through the first two years of this deal, Zito has the 10th highest ERA in baseball among all qualifying pitchers. Good thing that Tim Lincecum is making relatively short money, eh?
Tony's Top 5 reasons to keep Justin Masterson in the bullpen
5
The impact on Manny Delcarmen. As we learned last year, Delcarmen is far more effective in the sixth or seventh innings.
4
His stuff is better. As a starter, Masterson's fastball is in 90-92. As a reliever, he has touched 96. This gives Masterson the ability to induce K's and double plays.
3
The lefty issue. Unless or until he incorporates an effective changeup or split, Masterson will continue to be vulnerable against lefthanded batters.
2
Efficiency - or inefficiency. As a starter, Masterson's difficulties against lefthanded batters can inflate his pitch counts and shorten his outings.
1
The team would be better off. It may seem sad to say, but an effective late-inning reliever now may have more value than a mediocre, back-end starter.
Tony's Top 5 Red Sox stats to ponder
5
14: According to The Hardball Times Baseball Annual, percentage of the time this season that Jason Varitek hit a line drive, the lowest percentage among all qualifying major leaguers.
4
61: Double plays turned this season by Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia without committing a single throwing error.
3
2: According to a major league source, position where Red Sox Kevin Youkilis finished in the Gold Glove voting for AL first basemen.
2
91: According to the Hardball Times, projected win total for the Sox in 2009 using the same personnel employed this year. Boston's projected record was the best among the 30 teams.
1
10-1: Won-lost record of Junichi Tazawa this season while pitching for Nippon Oil in Japan's corporate league. Tazawa reportedly finished with a 1.02 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 88 1/3 innings.
Tony's Top 5 reasons to keep Justin Masterson in the bullpen
5
The impact on Manny Delcarmen. As we learned last year, Delcarmen is far more effective in the sixth or seventh innings. Keeping Masterson makes Delcarmen better and gives the Sox the flexibility to trade.
4
His stuff is better. As a starter, Masterson's fastball is in the 90-92 mph range. As a reliever, he has touched 96 mph. This gives Masterson the ability to induce strikeouts and double plays, both invaluable in the late innings.
3
The lefty issue. Unless or until he incorporates an effective changeup or split, Masterson will continue to be vulnerable against lefthanded batters. As a starter, he'd be exposed to more lefties. As a reliever, Masterson gets the benefit of matchups.
2
Efficiency -- or inefficiency. As a starter, Masterson's difficulties against lefthanded batters can inflate his pitch counts and shorten his outings. As a reliever, pitch counts are virtually irrelevant.
1
Right now, Masterson is more the former than the latter. The team would be better off. It may seem sad to say, but an effective late-inning reliever now may have more value than a mediocre, back-end starter.
Tony's Top 5 NFL teams (Power rankings)
5
Carolina Panthers. The most unheralded 8-2 team in history has a tremendous running attack, a tough defense and big-pass potential.
4
New York Jets. Admittedly, the AFC is wide open and Brett Favre is a mistake waiting to happen. But if Favre plays like he did last week, who can stop that offense?
3
Pittsburgh Steelers. Let's stress that there is a big gap between the top two and everyone else. But in a big game, would you rather have Ben Roethlisberger or Brett Favre?
2
Tennessee Titans. Still don't think they're going to the Super Bowl, but 10-0 is 10-0. The Titans have outscored opponents by 113 points, second in the NFL to the Giants.
1
New York Giants. Super Bowl XLII was no fluke. The Giants can pass and play defense, and they have a coach who is as capable as any in the game. All hail Tom Coughlin.
Tony's Top 5 predictions for this week's MVP announcements
5
Francisco Rodriguez will end up with at least one 1st-place vote in the AL because someone will make the mistake of giving him one. Is there a more useless stat than the save?
4
Manny Ramirez will finish in the top three in the National League voting, which is a joke. There should be a rule that the MVP has to spend the entire year in one organization.
3
Albert Pujols will win the NL honor -- and he should. From wire to wire, Pujols meant more to his team than any other player in the game, especially Ryan Howard.
2
Kevin Youkilis will not finish in the top 3 because voters will underestimate his value of playing multiple positions. Josh Hamilton, Justin Morneau, and Pedroia will finish ahead of him.
1
Dustin Pedroia will win the award, partly because he is a great story, mostly because he is a great player. When Pedroia went 12 for 18 batting cleanup, he convinced an entire nation.
Tony's Top 5 Red Sox stats from the new Bill James handbook
5
59. According to James, percentage by which a player was more likely to hit a double at Fenway this season as compared to another park. Put another way: Fenway Park produced 59 percent more doubles than the average stadium this year. Wow.
4
119. Projected RBI total for David Ortiz in 2009, suggesting the Sox believe that Ortiz will make a nice return to productivity after suffering a wrist injury in 2008. Given that James is a Red Sox adviser, we have to believe this factors into the team's planning.
3
113. Projected RBI total for Manny Ramirez in 2009, assuming that Ramirez remains with the Dodgers. Ramirez is currently a free agent, of course, though the Dodgers have offered him a contract. James also projects that Ramirez will play in 150 games.
2
121. Projected RBI total for first baseman Mark Teixeira, in whom the Red Sox have a great interest and who is also a free agent. (He finished the year with the Angels.) Teixeira also is projected to bat .299 with a .397 OBP, 36 home runs and 102 runs scored.
1
4.02. Projected ERA for Jon Lester, who emerged as one of the more dominating lefthanders in the game during the 2007 season. Interestingly, James has Lester projected to finish 12-11 while pitching 212 innings. Could the Sox be in the market for a starter?
Tony's Top 5 things we learned from the first half of the NFL season
5
Pacman Jones was overrated. For that matter, so were the Dallas Cowboys. With or without Tony Romo, Dallas looks like the biggest waste of talent since the 1992 New York Mets.
4
The Lions are going winless. Already having been outscored by 102 points, the Lions' 8 remaining games are vs. the Jags, at Carolina, vs. the Bucs, vs. the Titans, vs. the Vikes, at Indy, vs. the Saints, at the Packers.
3
The Titans will not win the Super Bowl. Sure, they're a good football team. But it already has been proven that a team quarterbacked by Kerry Collins cannot win the Super Bowl. Bet they go 4-4 or 5-3 over the final eight.
2
The West stinks. Combined, in both conferences, teams playing in the West Division are a combined 21-43. The only West team with a winning record entering Week 9 is the Arizona Cardinals.
1
The NFC has overtaken the AFC. Maybe it's because Tom Brady is hurt and Peyton Manning looks like a shell of himself, but the best football is being played in the other conference, which is where this year's champ will come from.
Tony's Top 5 biggest lies told during baseball free agency
5
"We tried to keep him." Translation: We've milked this guy for all he's worth and he is starting to slip, so we're going to replace him with someone younger and cheaper.
4
"We think he'll benefit from a change of scenery." Translation: This guy is a nutcake, but he's a bargain. If we get a good year out of him, rejoice!
3
"That doesn't constitute tampering." Translation: We never contacted him directly. We just asked one of our former players to sleep on his lawn.
2
"There's another team involved." Translation: The market for this guy is non-existent right now, so I'm trying to create the illusion that there is actually a demand for his pathetic services.
1
"It's not about the money." Translation: Are you kidding? I'd play on Pluto for that. But while we're at it, can I get access to the private jet and have luxury seating for my family?
Tony's Top 5 most important developments from the Red Sox season
5
The contributions of Coco Crisp. A year ago at this time, we wondered if the Red Sox would be able to get anything for him in a trade. Now we suspect that they most certainly can.
4
The fall of Jason Varitek. OK, maybe "fall" is a strong word. But we all knew that the Red Sox were headed for a catching crisis at some point. That time seems to be here.
3
The rise of Kevin Youkilis. It's one thing to hit .285 (or so) with roughly 15-16 home runs and 75-80 RBIs. It's another thing entirely to become an MVP candidate. What a hitter.
2
The emergence of Justin Masterson. Just think of the flexibility he provides management. Theo Epstein now can focus on getting either a starter or reliever because Masterson can do both.
1
The blossoming of Jon Lester. In a best-case scenario, assuming Josh Beckett's return to health, the Red Sox will have two aces. In a worst-case, they still have a 1-2-3 as good as anyone else in the league.
Tony's Top 5 numbers from Game 2 of the ALCS
5
433. Total pitches thrown by 14 pitchers, seven each from the Red Sox and Rays. Tampa starter Scott Kazmir (98) threw the most and Red Sox reliever Javier Lopez (one) threw the fewest.
4
3-1/3. Innings pitched by Tampa closer Dan Wheeler, who proved to be the key to the game by staying in the game as long as he did. Wheeler's effort neutralized any advantage the Sox had with Jonathan Papelbon.
3
14. Times on base for Red Sox' Nos. 2-5 hitters Dustin Pedroia (four), David Ortiz (three), Kevin Youkilis (three) and Jason Bay (four). That group scored all eight Boston runs and accounted for all seven RBIs.
2
3. Starting players in the game who failed to reach base via a hit or walk, including Jacoby Ellsbury (0 for 6), Mark Kotsay (0 for 6) and Gabe Gross (0 for 3). Overall, there were 24 hits and 14 walks in the game.
1
19,620. In seconds, the time of the game. Try sitting down some time and counting (at a normal pace) to 19,620. We're willing to bet it would take about 5 hours, 27 minutes (give or take).
Tony's Top 5 reasons to root for a Sox-Dodgers World Series
5
The Nomar Garciaparra angle. In 1997-98, he began his career by following a Rookie of the Year Award with a second-place finish in the MVP balloting. Is it just me or does this sound a lot like the Dustin Pedroia story?
4
The J.D. Drew angle. He signed a five-year, $55 million contract with the Dodgers, then opted out after the third season. Now he could be on the verge of a second world title in as many years. Look at it this way: He's their Manny.
3
The Derek Lowe angle. For all the attention heaped upon Pedro Martinez following the 2004 season, Lowe was the bigger loss. Now headed for free agency, he has a career 3.31 ERA in the postseason. Cha-ching.
2
The Joe Torre angle. So let's get this straight: The New York Yankees fired him because the team was getting complacent. Now Torre's back in the LCS and the Yankees missed the playoffs. Nice to see you again, Joe.
1
The Manny Ramirez angle. Are you kidding? It's the best story in baseball right now. The Dodgers are happy about the trade. The Red Sox happy about the trade. How about a seven-game series to settle this once and for all?
Tony's Top 5 fantasy football matchups of the week
5
Ryan Grant, RB, Green Bay (vs. Atlanta).Grant has been nothing short of a bust this year, but this could be the week he gets rolling. Aaron Rodgers is banged up and Atlanta is allowing 4.6 yards per rush. If Grant disappoints again this week, bench him.
4
Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina (vs. Kansas City). Stewart has scored in each of the last three weeks - four touchdowns overall - and he's going against a Chiefs defense that has allowed more rushing yardage than any team in football. Stewart's new nickname: The Daily Show.
3
Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis (at Houston). In 12 career games against the Texas, Manning has thrown for 3,292 yards (274.3 per game) with 29 touchdown passes and four interceptions. OK, so the Colts have been struggling. But they're coming off a bye, too.
2
Anybody on Dallas (vs. Cincinnati). Tony Romo, Marion Barber, Terrell Owens, Jason Witten, Nick Folk - play `em all. The Cowboys are loaded and coming off a frustrating loss at home to the Washington Redskins. They might get 50 points this week.
1
Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears (at Detroit Lions). The Lions have the worst run defense in the league and the Bears run first, throw second. In this game, Chicago may not have to throw at all. What's the NFL record for rushing yardage in one game, anyway?
Tony's Top 5 best bets to win the World Series
5
Red Sox. A month ago, we might have placed them at No. 2. They are now banged up considerably, but check back with us in a few days. We might change our minds.
4
Dodgers or Phillies. Why the indecision? It's the National League, where everyone is equal. The Phillies have better talent. The Dodgers have been hot. Discuss.
3
Rays. Can we all agree now that they are for real? In the playoffs, scoring could prove to be a problem. But their bullpen is the best among postseason entrants. At least until the ninth inning.
2
Angels. The obvious class of the American League, they have speed, pitching, power, and defense. They have a terrific manager. They really should be in the World Series.
1
Cubs. Every 100 years, just like clockwork. Finally, an NL team with an AL lineup. Like the Angels, the Cubs have it all and are the obvious class of their league. But they won't win again until 2108.
Tony's Top 5 things to do during the Patriots’ bye
5
Scramble. This means you should not plan anything. Wake up, grab the Sunday Globe (of course) and pour yourself a cup of coffee, then make decisions. We operate in a structured world. Call an audible and live a little.
4
Go deep. Take a day trip you have been meaning to take. Drive to Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont or Rhode Island. New England is beautiful at this time of year. The network beauty shots during football games don’t do it justice.
3
Take a knee. Turn out the lights, close the drapes and don’t answer the phone. Leave the television off and hide from the rest of the world. If you get crazy, maybe you can read a book. (Note: Ignore this suggestion if anyone already has described you as a shut-in.)
2
Defer … to your significant other. This means giving up control of the television, going apple picking, visiting a farm, etc. Should you lack a significant other, we strongly urge you to get one. (It will help you grow as a person.)
1
Run the reverse. In this case, we mean that you should let your kids decide the day’s events. Of course, we are operating under the assumption that you have kids. If you do not, feel free to play with someone else’s. (But ask first.)
Tony's Top 5 most disturbing statistics about the Patriots
5
With Tom Brady as his starter, Bill Belichick has a career record of 87-24. Without Brady, Belichick is 43-58. As Bill Parcells might say, you are what you are. As Belichick might say, it is what it is.
4
Since the start of last season, the Patriots have allowed opponents the disturbing average of 4.7 yards per rushing attempt. Is it possible that last year’s historic offense masked a gross inability to stop the run?
3
In setting the NFL’s all-time scoring record last season, the Patriots averaged 36.8 points per game. So far this year, the Pats are averaging 16.3 points per game, which currently places Tom Brady’s estimated value at roughly three touchdowns a week.
2
In his first three career games with the Patriots last season, Randy Moss had 22 catches for 403 yards and five touchdowns. So far this year, Moss has 12 catches for 163 yards and one touchdown, totals roughly equal to his Week 1 totals last year against the Jets (9, 183, 1).
1
Last year, in 586 pass attempts, the Pats were sacked 21 times, an average of one sack every 27.9 attempts. This year, in 87 attempts, the Pats have been sacked 10 times, an average of once every 8.7 attempts. Can that all be Cassel?
Tony's Top 5 most overrated players in baseball (postseason edition)
5
Pat Burrell, Phillies outfielder. Through Wednesday night, he’s batting .210 since the All-Star break and .180 since Aug. 1. Yikes.
4
Daisuke Matsuzaka, Red Sox starting pitcher. Entering Thursday, only Brandon Webb, Roy Halladay and CC Sabathia had won more games over the last two seasons. Would you trade any of them for him?
3
Ben Sheets, Brewers starting pitcher. As Wednesday proved yet again, he’s very brittle. Have he and Rich Harden ever been seen in the same room?
2
Scott Kazmir, Rays starting pitcher. A younger, lefthanded version of Matsuzaka. Just as many pitches (too many) and not enough wins.
1
Francisco Rodriguez, Angels closer. When you get right down to it, what do saves really mean, anyway? Jonathan Papelbon, Mariano Rivera and Joe Nathan are all better closers.
Tony's Top 5 American League road cities (based on fan experience)
5
Toronto. OK, so you need a passport. But the city is clean, the people are friendly, the stadium is beyond bearable (as far as domes go) and the competition is good. Underrated.
4
Baltimore. In terms of hotels, entertainment, and stadium proximity, there isn't a better setup in baseball. Which is why everyone makes the trip. Which is why you should pick somewhere else first.
3
Seattle. Admittedly, getting there is a chore and the Mariners are a wretched lot. But it's a great city and great ballpark with terrific concessions. Try the "Intentional Wok."
2
Chicago. The ballpark lacks character, but the White Sox have been quite entertaining. As for the city, it's New York without the dirt or the attitude, which makes it darned near perfect.
1
New York. So what's wrong with a little dirt and a little attitude? At the old stadium or the new, a short drive gets you one of the longest standing rivalries in sports. You talkin' to me?
Tony's Top 5 NFL games of the weekend
5
Chargers at Broncos. The Chargers allowed 26 points to Panthers last week and the Broncos scored 41 against the Raiders. Exactly how much does Shawne Merriman mean, anyway?
4
Bills at Jaguars. The Patriots and Jets get the headlines, but the Bills could be a sleeper in the AFC East. In fact, they could surprise the entire AFC.
3
Colts at Vikings. Question of the week: Would you rather be 2-0 without Tom Brady or 0-2 with Peyton Manning? As Linda Richman would say: Discuss.
2
Patriots at Jets. Favre makes his first start against Pats as a Jet. Cassel makes his first start since high school. The comparisons pretty much end there.
1
Eagles at Cowboys. Always a compelling showdown. The local angle: How will Asante Samuel do in his first matchup with the insufferable, inimitable Terrell Owens?
Tony's Top 5 candidates to step up in Brady's absence
5
Matt Cassel, QB. Drafted in 2005, he's had three full seasons as Brady's understudy. So is he the next Tom Brady? Or just another Tommy Hodson?
4
Stephen Gostkowski, K. Why is he even on this list? Think about it: With Brady out, doesn't it stand to reason that the Pats might have to start converting field goals?
3
The defense. Last year, the Pats set an NFL record for points scored and dominated games with their offense. Without Brady, their ability to stop opponents grows in importance.
2
The running backs. Suddenly, keeping five in the backfield doesn't seem like such a bad idea. Of Laurence Maroney, Sammy Morris, LaMont Jordan, Kevin Faulk, and Heath Evans, the Pats may need all of them.
1
Bill Belichick. The mastermind has arguably his greatest challenge. If he can win a title without Brady, he'll go down as the undisputed Best Coach in History.
The 5 biggest stories in Boston sports right now
5
The Patriots defense. As long as Tom Brady plays, the offense will be fine. But with the opener scheduled for Sunday, can they stop the run? And do they have a replacement for Asante Samuel?
4
Mike Lowell. Like Josh Beckett, he is expected to return this weekend. Unlike Beckett, his absence hasn't received nearly the attention. WIth him, the Red Sox could field arguably the best defensive infield in their history.
3
Dustin Pedroia. The last Red Sox player to make a run at the Most Valuable Player Award after winning the Rookie of the Year? Nomar Garciaparra in 1998. (He finished second to Juan Gonzalez.)
2
Josh Beckett's elbow. Entering tomorrow night's scheduled start in Texas, he hasn't pitched since Aug. 17 with "tingling" in his pitching hand. If he can't pitch in October, Red Sox Nation will go numb.
1
Tom Brady's foot. The real question isn't whether he will play. (He will.) The real question is how he will play. Is there any athlete in town who holds more of his team's title fortunes?
About Mazz
Tony Massarotti is a Globe sportswriter and has been writing about sports in Boston for the last 19 years. A lifelong Bostonian, Massarotti graduated from Waltham High School and Tufts University. He was voted the Massachusetts Sportswriter of the Year by his peers in 2000 and 2008 and has been a finalist for the award on several other occasions. This blog won a 2008 EPpy award for "Best Sports Blog".
Tony's Top 5
NFL quarterbacks of all-time
5
Troy Aikman. One of the great big-game quarterbacks of all-time, his regular-season stats don’t impress. But he was a winner.
4
John Elway. OK, so he didn’t win a Super Bowl until Terrell Davis came along. But he the arm, head and guts. Complete package.
3
Peyton Manning. When it’s all over, he will go down as the greatest passer of all-time. With another title or two, he could be more.
2
Tom Brady. The closest thing to Joe Montana since Montana retired. Had the Pats won Super Bowl XLII, he might have been No. 1.
1
Joe Montana. In four Super Bowl appearances, Montana went 4-0 and threw 11 touchdowns with no interceptions. Enough said.
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