Friday, September 29, 2017

Browns Preview 9/29/17: Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns


By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The winless Cincinnati Bengals travel to Cleveland to take on the winless Browns in this week four matchup. The Browns lost to the Colts 31-28 last week. And the Bengals lost to the Packers 27-24 in overtime.



Browns Offense vs Bengals Defense

The Browns offense on the other hand has struggled during the first three weeks of the season. Last week, turnovers and penalties killed the Browns' momentum at times. Kizer threw three picks last week, all in the second half of the game, when the Browns were down two touchdowns. The Browns passing game didn't get any help from their young receivers. The receivers were called for four offensive pass interference penalties.

The gameplan this week for the Browns should be pretty simple. Protect the ball. Last weeks three picks from Kizer wasn't good, especially the first one that was in the redzone. The running game needs to keep improving, but in order for the running games to get an opportunity the Browns defense needs to keep them in games. Like last week, the Browns were forced to throw the ball 47 times because the Browns were down three scores. Kizer and Isaiah Crowell had 11 attempts each and Duke Johnson was only given two rushes but made the most of his opportunity, scoring on a 19-yard touchdown run.  Hopefully this week against the Bengals, who have struggled against the run this year, the Browns can get their running game going.

The passing game this year is lead by Duke Johnson, Rashard Higgins, Seth Devalve, and David Njoku. The Browns need someone on the outside to step up. Guys like Kenny Britt and Ricardo Lewis have had issues getting open. This week the outside guys need to step up in order to open up the passing game for their leading receivers.




Browns Defense vs Bengals Offense


The Browns might have Myles Garrett back this week. Garrett participated in practice Thursday. Unfortunately, Jamie Collins is still in concussion protocol.

The Bengals have three running backs they alternate with. Rookie Joe Mixon is their leading rusher, with Gio Bernard and Jeremy Hill second and third. The Browns run defense on the other hand has done a pretty good job this year. They are ranked 14th in rush defense this year.

The issue for the Browns defense this week will be Andy Dalton and AJ Green. Last week the Browns let T.Y. Hilton do whatever he wanted in the first half. And that is one of if not the main reason the Browns lost last week. They can't keep letting the opposition's best receiver kill them each week. Going into week four, AJ Green is the Bengals leading receiver with 20 catches. Brandon LaFell is second on the team with eight...So the game plan on defense should be limit Green and force Dalton to use other weapons.




Five Guys to Watch

1. DeShone Kizer: Like I say every week, Kizer is the number one guy to watch. He's the franchise quarterback for this regime. I think we will start seeing improvement with Kizer. Last week he only took one sack, which is a major positive. Now we need to see his accuracy improve with these receivers.

2. Jabrill Peppers:
He's another guy where everyone is watching multiple things. First, where he is lined up on defense. And second how he comes up and plays in open field. Last week he and a horrible game. Hopefully he can rebound and play a bit less hesitant.

3. Myles Garrett: This one is pretty simple. Garrett was our number one overall pick and has yet to play a down in the regular season. Garrett's ability as a pass rusher should help a defense that is one of the worst at getting pressure on the quarterback.

4. Trevon Coley: With Danny Shelton dealing with an injury, Coley will have to step up and be the number one defensive tackle on defense. Guys like Coley, Meder, Ogunjobi, and Brantley have played really well in rush defense. All these guys are going to have to step up if Shelton is either out of game or extremely limited when playing.

5. Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah has struggled in the first three weeks of the season. Hopefully with the return of Garrett, Ogbah can get more favorable matchups and get to the quarterback way more than he has.


Injury Report

Weather Report 

Betting Line: Cincinnati -3


Prediction: Browns 24 Bengals 17

Yes, I am once again taking the Browns to win a game...I think the presence of Myles Garrett is going to help the defense without a doubt. And because the defense will be much improved it will give Hue Jackson an opportunity to call on the running game much more than he's been able to through three weeks. If the Browns win the turnover battle they will win this game.

Thursday, September 28, 2017

Buckeyes Preview 9/28/17: Ohio State @ Rutgers Scarlet Knights


By Jason Disantis, @JasonInCLE


The temperature wasn’t the only thing scorching last Saturday at Ohio stadium as the Buckeye offense finally showed what it could look like against the Rebels of UNLV.

Ohio State (3-1, 1-0 Big Ten) dropped to number eleven in the polls despite a thirty-three point victory which featured J.T Barrett throwing five touchdown passes to five different receivers. The Buckeyes threw seven touchdown passes to seven different receivers including one of over 20 yards from Barrett and two of over 20 yards from Dwayne Haskins. A total of 13 players recorded a catch for the Buckeyes. In less than a half of work J.T. Barrett threw for 209 yards which moved him into second place all-time for passing yards at Ohio State.

The Buckeyes return to Big Ten play this weekend as they travel to Rutgers (1-3, 0-1 Big Ten) for prime-time game under the lights.

Rutgers has had a rough start to the season going 1-3 and often shooting themselves in the foot on offense. Head Coach and former Buckeye defensive coordinator Chris Ash is aware of the Scarlet Knights mistakes on offense.

“We’re just our own worst enemy right now on offense in those situations. In games against some really good opponents, and we can’t do that,” Ash said. “We can’t have those self-inflicted mistakes that we continue to have that doesn’t allow us to sustain drives and create momentum that we want and need as we move forward.”

Ash knows that if Rutgers wants to start to click on offense they’re going to have to clean up their mistakes. That is going to be tough to do with a Buckeye defensive front that is one of the most talented and deepest in the nation.

“They have always had high-level players, players that are going to go on and be high draft picks or go to the NFL, and obviously be great college players,” Ash said. “But it’s the depth that they have at the D-line that makes it such a special defensive unit.”

For the Buckeyes, they can continue to fine tune their passing game against a Rutgers team that lost their top cornerback, Blessuan Austin, to a season ending knee injury last week.

While Rutgers will be trying to fill the void of losing their best corner Ohio State will be getting healthier. Mike Weber, last year’s leading and 1000 yard rusher, will be returning from a hamstring injury that has slowed him early this season.

Defensively the Buckeyes will continue to try and clean up their play in the secondary. They haven’t been tested since week two against Oklahoma and the inexperience is showing with three pass interference calls last week against UNLV. They shouldn’t get much of a test from Rutgers either.



The Scarlet Knights are led by Louisville transfer quarterback Kyle Bolin. The Scarlet Knights are only averaging 163 yards passing on the young season and Bolin has thrown double the amount of interceptions to touchdowns, 6-3.

The Buckeyes biggest concern is going to be keeping Janarion Grant bottled up. Grant will most likely be a game time decision after suffering a concussion against Morgan State and didn’t make the trip to Nebraska last week. Grant is a wide receiver/kick returner who displays a good combination of speed and athleticism. When asked if he was concerned about Grant not being able to go against Ohio State Ash said “As of right now, no.”

Ash is going to need Grant and anyone else he can get to suit up as it’s going to be all hands on deck this Saturday night when the Buckeyes come to town.



What: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
When: September 30, 2017 at 7:30 PM ET
Where: High Point Solutions Stadium, Piscataway, NJ
Watch: Big Ten Network
Spread: OSU -30.5
Over/Under: 54
Money Line: OSU -10000, Rutgers +4000

Spread Offense 9/28/17: College Football Week 5 Preview


By Pat Luhta, @PLuhta


Week 4 certainly was fun, let's get right to my top 10 ballot and discuss further.


WEEK 5 TOP TEN

10. Ohio State (last week: 10)
9. TCU (last week: NR)
8. Michigan (last week: 9)
7. Washington (last week: 8)
6. USC (last week: 5)
5. Georgia (last week: 6)
4. Oklahoma (last week: 4)
3. Penn State (last week: 3)
2. Alabama (last week: 2)
1. Clemson (last week: 1)


The big change of the week is TCU joining the top 10 after their big win at Oklahoma State. Oklahoma State had been dominate on both sides of the ball all season and I was really buying in to them, but TCU overwhelmed them and brought home a lopsided 44-31 victory. QB Kenny Hill managed the game well and RB Darius Anderson could not be stopped, TCU were the big winners of the weekend and they have a top 10 ranking to show for it.

If you haven't started believing in the Georgia Bulldogs, then right now is a good time to start. The Georgia offense has so many weapons and their defensive line is one of the best in the country, they took on a Mississippi State team that just throttled LSU the week before and drilled them, 31-3. They flip flopped with USC after the Trojans yet again struggled to win convincingly against a team that they should've had no problems beating.

And we had 2 close calls in the night cap as both Penn State and Oklahoma avoided big upsets. Oklahoma struggled to win against a winless Baylor team, Baylor even recovered an onside kick in the final minute to give them a shot to tie the game but ultimately Oklahoma prevailed 48-41. And Penn State, while they dominated Iowa on the stat sheet, needed a touchdown on the last play of the game in order to defeat the Hawkeyes. It was truly a thrilling finish, that whole last drive was edge of your seat type feeling and QB Trace McSorley came up with the big throw when he needed to most and Penn State got the walkoff touchdown to remain undefeated.


HEISMAN WATCH

5. Luke Falk, QB, Washington State
4. Sam Darnold, QB, USC
3. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville
2. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
1. Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma

Baker Mayfield remains in the #1 spot for the Heisman trophy, for now. RB Saquon Barkley showcased just how great he is on Saturday, shredding the Iowa defense in both rushing and receiving. Penn State even put him in on kick returns, that's how much they relied on him to bring home the win for the Nittany Lions and they needed every last one of those yards. Mayfield is still the choice, but it's very close now.

QB Luke Falk makes his debut on the Heisman watch as well. I know Mike Leach and the Washington State Cougars love throwing the ball, but 14 touchdowns to only 1 interception on a 4-0 team cannot be ignored. Add in his 1,378 yards and 76% completion percentage(yes, 76%) and we have the makings of a darkhorse candidate.



WEEK 5 PREVIEW



#5 USC at #16 Washington State - Friday 10:30 PM

We get treated to a big game on Friday night here in week 5 with the backend of an ESPN doubleheader(Miami-Duke before this is also a good game to tune in for) as USC heads to Pullman, WA to take on the Washington State Cougars. This one will be a battle of the QB's, both USC's Sam Darnold and WSU's Luke Falk are Heisman candidates and have been putting up big numbers this season. So in a battle of QB's, it always comes down to the defense and which team will be able to get the stops. This favors USC, as does a lot of other positions as their skill players on offense are also a bit better than WSU's. But USC has a knack for being a team that doesn't bust out it's full potential and flirts with losing a game that it should win based on talent level. Being on the road could be a factor as well for the Trojans, the Cougars have a big chance to make a statement here and come away with a huge home win. Knowing the way USC is though, after 2 weeks of sandbagging this will likely be a week in which they wake up and play like they are capable.

PREDICTION: USC 44-31


#7 Georgia at Tennessee - 3:30 PM

At 3:30 PM on Saturday, an old SEC rivalry kicks off. Tennessee had a heartbreaking loss to Florida 2 weeks ago and followed it up with a "hangover" game where they barely beat UMass, 17-13. Tennessee's offense looked stagant through 3 quarters against the Gators, but QB Quinten Dormady and RB John Kelly finally started getting a rythym down and put themselves in a position to win the game by scoring 17 4th quarter points, They'll need to find that rythym again and a lot sooner this game against Georgia, who boasts one of the top defensive lines in the country and hasn't given up more than 19 in a game all season. Georgia also boasts a pretty good offense, they are starting a 3 RB by committee approach and may have QB Jacob Eason back for this game as well. Tennessee hasn't beaten a top 10 SEC team at home since 1999 and this will be very tough to break that skid here against Georgia.

PREDICTION: Georgia 26-13


#24 Mississippi State at #13 Auburn - 6:00 PM

Last week, we were all trying to figure out if Mississippi State was for real or not. After a 31-3 beating by Georgia, how real they are remains in doubt. They came in with the #1 ranked offense and defense in the SEC, but Georgia was way too much for them and they didn't show that offense or defense out there. Auburn was beat down by Clemson earlier this season, luckily for them it wasn't a conference loss which makes it a better loss than the one Mississippi State took to Georgia. Mississippi State is clinging for the SEC West title hopes and needs this one big time, and will turn to their QB Nick Fitzgerald to lead the way for them. Auburn also has a pretty good QB in Jarrett Stidham and Auburn can remain right atop the SEC West, along with their rival Alabama, with a big win at home here.

PREDICTION: Auburn 27-17


#3 Clemson at #12 Virginia Tech - 8:00 PM

First off, if you want to see one of the best, if not the best, college football entrances then make sure you tune in a bit early for the pregame here as it doesn't get much better than Virginia Tech's. In a rematch of last year's ACC Title game, the Hokies look to avenge that loss to Clemson and make a big statement on Saturday night. This game will be a big step for redshirt freshman Josh Jackson, whose QB play has put the Hokies in ACC championship contender discussion. His 11 TD's on the season to only 1 interception has gotten some early Heisman buzz, and he can also do it on his feet which he showed off in the season opener against West Virginia where he rushed 11 times for 101 yards and 1 touchdown. Clemson also starts a redshirt freshman at QB, and Kelly Bryant is now not a stranger to big night games on the road. The Tigers went on the road to Louisville and came away with a big 47-21 victory, where Bryant threw for over 300 yards. The big key though, as always with Clemson, will be their defensive line. They have been bullying every team so far and have shut down the best players in the country, even defending Heisman trophy winner Lamar Jackson. If the defensive line can keep this up then it could make for a long night for Josh Jackson and the Hokies, so Virginia Tech will need to find a way to get him open looks in the passing game and some room to run as well. This should be a stellar game which we could see again later on in the ACC title game, here's to a fun Saturday night involving these two teams.

PREDICTION: Clemson 37-27

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 9/28/17: NXT Recap


By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

NXT returned this week for more NXT action at Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida. This week the Undisputed Era's leader Adam Cole made his NXT wrestling debut as he battled SAnitY's leader Eric Young.

** NXT TV Card **

- Lars Sullivan battled Oney Lorcan.
- Heavy Machinery battled Demetrius Bronson and Patrick Scott.
- Liv Morgan battled Vanessa Borne.
- Kassius Ohno battled Fabian Aichner. 
- Adam Cole battled Eric Young.

** NXT **

- NXT GM William Regal announces a Fatal Four Way Match at NXT Takeover: Houston for the vacant NXT Women's Championship. Mae Young Classic Tournament winner Kairi Sane will be one of the four, the other three will be decided soon.

- SAnitY Promo: Eric Young says that time and space doesn't matter, but chaos does. EY says that the only thing sure in life is change and he will take Adam Cole to the edge of SAnitY tonight.

- Lars Sullivan vs. Oney Lorcan: The match closes out with Lorcan attempting a dive, but gets caught by Lars and dropped face first on the apron. Lorcan unloads palm slaps that look to just irritate Lars. Lorcan lands an uppercut and dazes Lars. Lars comes back with a huge clothesline and hits the power slam on Lorcan to score the pinfall.
Winner: Lars Sullivan, by pinfall.

- After the match, Lars attacks Lorcan some more, but Danny Burch hits the ring and makes the save for Lorcan.

- Backstage, Ruby Riot is interviewed and asked about Nikki Cross. Ruby says she hasn't seen Nikki in two weeks, last time was when she helped Ruby by teaming with her. 

- Heavy Machinery vs. Demetrius Bronson and Patrick Scott: The match closes out with Heavy Machinery nailing diving head butts. Bronson is able to get a few shots delivered before getting run over. Dozovic lands an elbow and tags in Knight. Heavy Machinery sandwich Bronson and Scott together and score  the pinfall with their finisher.
Winner: Heavy Machinery, by pinfall.

- Outside the Performance Center, William Regal finds Johnny Gargano and informs him that he's getting a rematch against Andrade "Cien" Almas in two weeks that Gargano requested.

- Backstage, Roderick Strong is interviewed. Strong says he's preparing for his title match the same way he has for every match. Strong is fighting for his family, he's been close before, but this time will be different and he knows he's indestructible and won't stop. Strong says Drew McIntyre doesn't have the tenacity to beat him.

- Liv Morgan vs. Vanessa Borne: The match closes out with Vanessa landing a drop toe hold on Liv into the turnbuckle. Vanessa unloads offense on Liv, but Liv comes back with her own offense and hits a corner double foot stomp on Vanessa. Liv hits her version of a Code Breaker and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Liv Morgan, by pinfall.

- Aleister Black is shown working out and is asked about The Velveteen Dream Patrick Clark. Black says that in an age of individuality, there's always one who thinks they're more unique, as well as many parables describing the same situation.

- Kassius Ohno vs. Fabian Aichner: The match closes out with Aichner hitting a tilt a whirl back breaker and then a springboard dive. Aichner lands a stalling suplex and then a running power slam. Aichner misses a springboard moonsault and Ohno lands a elbow and a kick. Ohno measures and drills Aichner with the spinning kick for the pinfall.
Winner: Kassius Ohno, by pinfall.

- Drew McIntyre is interviewed and guarantees he'll hold onto his NXT World Title when he battles Roderick Strong.

- Adam Cole vs. Eric Young: The match closes out with Cole applying a rear chin lock, but EY escapes. Cole comes back with a sleeper hold submission as EY charges. EY counters a suplex, hits a clothesline, a series of forearms and hits a leaping neck breaker. SAnitY and Undisputed Era start brawling on the floor. EY leaps off the ropes and takes out all four men. EY is back in the ring and gets nailed by the Shining Wizard from Cole for the pinfall.
Winner: Adam Cole, by pinfall.


Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 9/27/17: Smackdown Live Glendale Recap


By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Smackdown Live was live this week in Glendale, Arizona. Last week, Kevin Owens promised to end Shane McMahon inside Hell In A Cell, Charlotte became the new #1 Contender to the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship and Rusev finally got revenge on Randy Orton.

** Smackdown Live Card **

- Baron Corbin battled Tye Dillinger.
- The Usos battled The Hype Bros.
- Charlotte battled Ms. Money In The Bank Carmella.
- Kevin Owens battled Sami Zayn.

- Rusev holds a Pride of Bulgaria Celebration.

** Smackdown Live **

- Kevin Owens Promo: Owens says all he has heard all week is how Shane McMahon will respond tonight. Owens says he's been called a coward for what he did to Vince McMahon, well here he is in the middle of the ring. Owens says Shane saw what Owens did to Vince, a man he respects, so imagine what Owens will do to Shane, a man he hates. Sami Zayn interrupts and heads to the ring. Zayn says he's not here to fight, he's here to help Owens regain control over himself. Owens says Zayn isn't here to help him, Zayn is here because he's jealous that Owens has done better in the WWE than Zayn. Owens and Zayn are about to go at it when Smackdown Live GM Daniel Bryan interrupts. Bryan says he's not sure if Shane will be here tonight, but since Owens wants a fight and Zayn is eager to give it to him, than it'll be Owens vs. Zayn tonight. Owens and Zayn have a stare down to end the segment.

- Baron Corbin vs. Tye Dillinger: The match closes out with both men outside. Corbin sends Dillinger into the ringpost. Corbin charges, misses and hits the steel steps. Back in the ring, Corbin counters the Tye Breaker and rolls back outside. Corbin dumps AJ Styles' water on him, while he sits at the commentary table and then sends Dillinger crashing into Styles. Corbin returns to the ring and wins by count out.
Winner: Baron Corbin, by count out.

- After the match, Corbin hits a big boot on Dillinger and then runs as Styles chases. Corbin grabs a microphone and challenges Styles for the WWE United States Championship at WWE Hell In A Cell. Styles looks to accept to end the segment.

- Jinder Mahal and The Singh Brothers Promo: Mahal says he may have went a little too far last week in mocking Shinsuke Nakamura. Mahal says Nakamura is a very worthy opponent and he'll compliment him this week. Mahal shows more photos on the TitanTron and mocks Nakamura some more until Nakamura himself appears on the screen. Nakamura's music hits and out comes Nakamura. Nakamura lays out The Singh Brothers and begins brawling with Mahal. Nakamura counters the Cobra Clutch Slam and nails Mahal with the Kinshasa to end the segment.

- The Usos vs. The Hype Bros.: The match closes out with with Ryder nailing a neck breaker for a near fall. Ryder hits double knees on Jimmy as Mojo tags in. Mojo and Ryder argue about the forced tag. Jimmy sends Ryder to the floor during the argument and hits an Uso Kick on Mojo. Jey goes to the top rope and hits the Uso Splash on Mojo for the pinfall.
Winners: The Usos, by pinfall.

- After the match, The Usos and The New Day trade verbal shots at each other while New Day sat at the commentary table. The New Day state that they just don't want to defend their tag team titles at WWE Hell In A Cell they want to defend them inside the Hell In A Cell. The Usos accept the challenge to end the segment.

- Rusev's Pride of Bulgaria Celebration: Aiden English is in the ring hyping Rusev and his flawless effort in defeating Randy Orton. English sings the Bulgarian national anthem as Rusev heads to the ring. The mayor of Rusev's hometown reads from a scroll and proclaims today Rusev Day. The mayor gives Rusev the key to the city and Rusev wants to see his flawless victory on Orton. Highlights are shown of Rusev defeating Orton and Rusev proclaims himself a legend killer and king of the Smackdown Live jungle. English begins to sing a song he wrote for Rusev when suddenly Randy Orton hits the ring and lays out English. Orton counters a Rusev charge and lays Rusev out with an RKO to end the segment.

- Backstage, Daniel Bryan informs Sami Zayn that Shane McMahon is on his way and coming for Kevin Owens. Zayn asks Bryan to tell Shane not to interfere in his match, because he wants his opportunity with Owens. Bryan says he'll call Shane and let him know.

- Backstage, Randy Orton tells Renee Young to let Rusev know that he'll see him at WWE Hell In A Cell when he wakes up.

- Charlotte vs. Carmella: The match closes out with Carmella hitting a reverse DDT for a near fall. Carmella shows frustration and kicks Charlotte. Charlotte gets a near fall on Carmella after countering a rollup. Charlotte connects with the Big Boot on Carmella and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Charlotte, by pinfall.

- After the match, Nattie Neidhart arrives and tells Charlotte that she's happy that Ric Flair is feeling better. Nattie is happy that Ric will get to watch his over rated daughter lose to Nattie at WWE Hell In A Cell. Nattie mocks the Flair's to end the segment.

- Dolph Ziggler Promo: Ziggler tricks everyone with The Undertaker entrance. Ziggler laughs and tells the fans that they look like they seen a ghost. Ziggler says anyone can hobble to the ring and act like a zombie, but no one can do what Ziggler can. Bobby Roode interrupts Ziggler and says Ziggler is an amazing talent, but a hypocrite. Roode says that for a guy that doesn't care about the fans, he sure comes out alot and wastes time. Roode dares Ziggler to back up his claim that he's the best in ring performer at WWE Hell In A Cell. Ziggler mocks Roode's gimmick and says Roode isn't up to par with Ziggler. Ziggler accepts the challenge and Roode says Hell In A Cell will be absolutely glorious to end the segment.

- Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn: The match closes out with Zayn hitting a corner DDT. Owens counters the Helluva Kick and hits Zayn with a super kick. Zayn counters the Pop Up Power Bomb and drops Owens with the Blue Thunder Bomb for a near fall. Zayn attempts the flying through the ropes DDT, but Owens counters with another super kick. Owens plants Zayn with the apron power bomb and Zayn is left unconscious. The referee stops the match and awards it to Owens.
Winner: Kevin Owens, by Knockout.

- After the match, Owens attacks Zayn again and takes out the paramedics trying to assist Zayn. Owens wraps a steel chair around Zayn's neck and goes to break it, but Shane McMahon hits the ring. Owens shoves Zayn into Shane and runs. Owens escapes through the crowd and waves at Shane to end the show.

Tuesday, September 26, 2017

Podcast 9/26/17: On the Browns & NFL Week 3, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade & More


By Raven Williams, @nevaRWilliams

You can now download the latest episodes of "TripleThreatCLE.com's Podcast"!

Subscribe to us, on New Cleveland Radio iTunes here!

DOWNLOAD: On the Browns & NFL Week 3, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade & More (9/26/17)

SoundCloud Stream Here

------
DOWNLOAD: On Kyrie & Kevin Durant, NBA's Top 25 & Browns/NFL Week 2 (9/19/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
------
DOWNLOAD: On Browns & NFL Week 1, Ohio State's Loss, Indians Streak, Kobe & NBA Rankings (9/12/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On the Browns & NFL Week 1, College Football and special guest Zac Jackson (9/6/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On Browns Moves, Cavs/Celtics & College Football Kickoff (8/30/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On LeBron James, Browns Preseason, QB Rankings & More (8/16/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: Browns Preseason, Cavs Uniforms, All-Time Uniforms & TV Reboots (8/9/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On Kyrie Irving and Sports Hall of Fames (8/2/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On Kyrie Irving's Trade Request, LeBron's Power & The Cavs (7/2417)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On Kirk Cousins, LeBron James, Unappreciated Players & Fast Food Chicken (7/19/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
DOWNLOAD: On MLB All-Star, Young Stars & Bad NBA Contracts (7/12/17)
SoundCloud Stream here
--
DOWNLOAD: On NBA Free Agency, Chauncey Billups & Our 3-on-3 Teams (7/5/17)
SoundCloud Stream here
--
DOWNLOAD: On Chris Paul Trade, Phil Jackson, NBA Moves & Lavar Ball (6/28/17)
SoundCloud Stream Here
--
2017 Episodes Of Triple Threat CLE Radio Show
----
2016 Episodes of Triple Threat CLE Radio Show

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon: RAW Ontario California Recap


By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

It's the beginning of the week and time to kick things off in wrestling with Monday Night RAW, live from Ontario, California. RAW is going live after the fall out from this past Sunday's WWE No Mercy pay per view. Brock Lesnar, The Miz, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Alexa Bliss all retained their titles as Enzo Amore claimed his first WWE title with a WWE Cruiserweight Championship win. RAW moves ahead to WWE TLC in four weeks.

** Monday Night RAW Card **

- Jason Jordan and Matt Hardy battled Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas.
- Elias Samson battled Apollo Crews.
- Braun Strowman battled Curt Hawkins.
- WWE RAW World Tag Team Champion Dean Ambrose battled Braun Strowman.
- WWE RAW World Tag Team Champion Seth Rollins battled Sheamus.
- WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz battled Roman Reigns in a non title match.
- Finn Balor battled Goldust.
- Bayley and Sasha Banks battled Emma and Nia Jax.

- WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore holds a Certified G Championship Celebration.

- The Miz hosts another edition of Miz TV with Roman Reigns as his special guest.

** RAW **

- Miz TV with The Miz and The Miztourage: Miz immediately introduces his guest Roman Reigns. Miz runs down the year Reigns has had so far. Reigns gives props and respect to John Cena. Reigns says his victory over Cena was the biggest of his career so he's not sure why he's talking to an idiot like Miz. Reigns tells Miz he can't beat Jason Jordan one on one and then tells Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas to go fetch him a beer. Miz accuses Reigns of riding The Shield coattails 5 years ago when they first arrived and wonders who would win against The Miztourage. Reigns says we'll never know because Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins are doing their own thing right now, as is he. Miz cries about disrespect and says Reigns doesn't deserve a WWE Universal Championship Match. Reigns calls out a referee and wants to fight Miz right now. Miz says no and tries to end the segment. RAW GM Kurt Angle interrupts and says he has two huge matches for tonight. Reigns vs. The Miz and Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas vs. Jason Jordan and Matt Hardy. The Miztourage are all angry to end the segment.

- Matt Hardy and Jason Jordan vs. Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas: The match closes out with Matt dropping Dallas with a neck breaker for a near fall. Matt then hits the Side Effect on Dallas for another near fall. Jordan is in and spears both Axel and Dallas into the corner. Matt hits the Twist of Fate on Dallas and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Matt Hardy and Jason Jordan, by pinfall.

- Elias Samson vs. Apollo Crews: The match closes out with Crews sending Elias outside and then suicide dives onto Elias. Titus O'Neil cheers on Crews, but gets kicked by Elias. Elias takes advantage of a distracted Crews and ends up hitting Drift Away to score the pinfall.
Winner: Elias Samson, by pinfall.

- After the match, Elias and Titus almost go at it, but Elias retreats.

- Backstage, Finn Balor is interviewed. Balor thanks Bray Wyatt for challenging him and says that his win was for Goldust and all the others Bray victimized. Balor is setting his sights on the WWE Universal Championship now.

- Braun Strowman vs. Curt Hawkins: Hawkins refuses to fight and runs into the crowd. Strowman chases Hawkins into the production area and choke slams Hawkins through a table. Strowman tosses Hawkins onto the RAW stage and then hits the running power slam, putting Hawkins right through the LED board. Strowman goes back to the ring and demands a more worthy challenger. Dean Ambrose interrupts and accepts the challenge.
Winner: No Contest.

- Braun Strowman vs. Dean Ambrose: The match closes out with Ambrose leaping at Braun but gets caught. Ambrose counters the catch and is able to get Braun down. Ambrose gets a near fall on Braun and keeps control. Ambrose counters the choke slam and sends Braun into the turnbuckle. Ambrose climbs the ropes and goes for the elbow drop. Braun catches Ambrose in mid air and hits the running power slam to score the pinfall.
Winner: Braun Strowman, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Enzo interrupts Kurt Angle and asks for a Certified G Championship Celebration. Angle asks if it's worth a celebration considering Enzo cheated to win. Enzo calls Angle an Olympic gold hater and refuses advice from him.

- Backstage, Seth Rollins reminds Dean Ambrose that they're partners and he would've had his back against Braun Strowman. Rollins says he's going to challenge Braun to a match next week and Ambrose admits he made a mistake challenging Braun.

- Alexa Bliss Promo: Alexa brags about beating four of the best at WWE No Mercy and says she's disappointed in the fans. The fans didn't congratulate her, instead they made notes and memes about Asuka coming at WWE TLC. Alexa says the fans don't appreciate her and she doesn't have to prove anything to them. Mickie James interrupts and heads to the ring. Mickie says Alexa took verbal shots at her last week and dares her to do it to her face now. Alexa says she respects Mickie, thinks Mickie has a lot to offer and knows she still has a few fans that believe in Mickie. Mickie reminds Alexa of who she is and what she's done in the WWE. Mickie wants Alexa to repeat the insult Alexa said last week to her face right now. Alexa hesitates and then finally calls Mickie an old lady. Mickie slaps Alexa twice then lays her out with a Mick Kick to end the segment. 

- Sheamus vs. Seth Rollins: The match closes out with Sheamus trapping Rollins in the Cloverleaf submission. Rollins escapes, but Sheamus remains in control. Rollins dodges the Brogue Kick, counters an aerial offensive move from Sheamus and then hits the running knee to score the pinfall.
Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Goldust confronts Finn Balor and says he doesn't need his sympathy and is upset that Balor considers Goldust a victim of Bray Wyatt. Balor apologizes to Goldust, but Goldust attacks Balor and leaves Balor laid out.

- Roman Reigns vs. The Miz: The match closes out with Miz unloading Yes Kicks, but Reigns catches the last kick and hits the Superman Punch on Miz. Curtis Axel jumps on the apron and also eats a Superman Punch. Reigns sends Bo Dallas flying off the apron, allowing Miz to hit a DDT on Reigns for a near fall. Reigns counters the Skull Crushing Finale and hits a spear on Miz to score the pinfall.
Winner: Roman Reigns, by pinfall.

- After the match, The Miztourage beat down Reigns, but Reigns fights back and attacks all three men. Axel and Dallas grab steel chairs and beat down Reigns with them. Miz hits the Skull Crushing Finale on Reigns and leaves Reigns laying. The Miztourage continue the attack on Reigns with the steel chairs. The Miz hits another Skull Crushing Finale on Reigns face first on a steel chair. The Miztourage then mock The Shield with the triple fist bump pose over Reigns' body.

- Goldust vs. Finn Balor: The match closes out with Goldust hitting a spinebuster for a near fall. Goldust unloads on Balor while he's down. Balor is back up and hits the Slingblade and then corner drop kicks Goldust. Balor hits the Coup de Grace on Goldust and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Finn Balor, by pinfall.

- After the match, Bray's graphic flashes and kids singing "Whole World In His Hands" play as Balor looks around confused.

- Backstage, Sasha Banks tells Bayley about how upset she's been that she didn't win back her title. Sasha says they need to focus tonight and reminds Bayley how Nia Jax injured Bayley's shoulder last month. 

- Backstage, Enzo Amore interrupts Kurt Angle and demands a no contact clause be put on everyone on 205 Live because Enzo senses jealousy and thinks they'll attack him during his celebration. Angle allows just so Enzo will leave him alone.

- Emma and Nia Jax vs. Sasha Banks and Bayley: The match closes out with Bayley sending Nia outside. Bayley suicide dives, but gets caught by Nia. Bayley escapes and sends Nia into the ringpost. Emma gets a near fall on Sasha with a rollup. Sasha hits knees on Emma as Bayley tags in. Bayley hits the Bayley To Belly on Emma to score the pinfall.
Winners: Bayley and Sasha Banks, by pinfall.  

- Enzo Amore's Certified G Championship Celebration: Enzo says people are jealous of him, just like his former partner Big Cass. Enzo reveals under a cloth a Certified G jersey, which he's retiring now. Enzo gets interrupted by the whole 205 Live roster. Enzo mocks the cruiserweights until Neville arrives. Enzo mocks Neville about how he looks and for losing the title. Neville says Enzo was dumped on the 205 Live roster because no one else wanted him. Neville says Enzo is nothing but a joke and he's made a joke out of the division and the title. Neville says that on behalf of the entire cruiserweight division, he is here to end Enzo. Enzo reminds Neville that he has a no contact clause and Neville will forfeit his title shot if he touches Enzo.
Enzo says they are in the main event of RAW because Enzo is a star, he's money and he will see them all tomorrow night on The Zo Show. Neville finally snaps and attacks Enzo. Neville sends Enzo into the retired jersey and then out to the floor. Neville tosses Enzo into the barricade and Enzo retreats. The entire 205 Live roster block Enzo's escape and Neville unloads some more. Neville takes the no contact clause contract, balls it up and shoves it in Enzo's mouth. Neville lays out Enzo and hits the Red Arrow to end the show.

Monday, September 25, 2017

WWE No Mercy Recap


By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

That's another RAW represented WWE No Mercy pay per view in the books ladies and gentlemen. WWE No Mercy was live at the famous Staples Center in Los Angeles, California and was also live on the WWE Network. All the WWE RAW titles were on the line, including the WWE Universal Championship. If you missed the show or even if you didn't, then keep on reading and enjoy as I bring you the WWE No Mercy recap.

** WWE No Mercy Card **

- WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar defended his title against Braun Strowman.
- WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz defended his title against Jason Jordan.
- WWE RAW World Tag Team Champions Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins defended their titles against Sheamus and Cesaro.
- WWE RAW Women's Champion Alexa Bliss defended her title against Sasha Banks, Nia Jax, Emma and Bayley in a Fatal Five Way Match.
- WWE Cruiserweight Champion Neville defended his title against Enzo Amore.
- John Cena battled Roman Reigns. 
- Bray Wyatt battled Finn Balor.
- Elias Samson battled Apollo Crews. 

** WWE No Mercy PreShow **

- Social Media Lounge Interview With Alexa Bliss: Alexa talks about what a great edition Asuka will be to the RAW roster when she arrives in October. Alexa promises to leave tonight still the WWE RAW Women's Champion. Alexa then answers a few fan questions and even mocks one fan that proposes to her.

- Elias Samson vs. Apollo Crews: The match closes out with Elias nailing a clothesline and taking control of Crews. Elias lands a mule kick for a near fall. Crews hits a suplex, clothesline, a big boot and a splash on Elias for a near fall, as Titus O'Neil cheers on Crews. Elias counters out of a scoop slam, but eats an enziguri. Elias rolls outside where Titus talks trash to him. Back in the ring, Crews leaps off the top rope, but has to roll through on the landing as Elias moves out of the way. Elias sends Crews into the corner and then hits Drift Away to score the pinfall.
Winner: Elias Samson, by pinfall.

- After the match, Elias attacks Crews, but retreats as soon as Titus O'Neil hits the ring.

** WWE No Mercy **

- "WWE Intercontinental Championship Match": The Miz (c) vs. Jason Jordan: The match closes out with Jordan countering the Skull Crushing Finale and hits two suplexes on The Miz for a near fall. Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas pull Miz outside, but they both get attacked by Jordan. Jordan tosses Miz back into the ring and applies a crossface submission. Miz reaches for the ropes and finally grabs them to release the hold. Jordan charges, misses and hits shoulder first into the corner. Miz charges for his corner clothesline, but Jordan catches Miz and hits a belly to belly suplex. Jordan spears Miz in the corner and takes control as Bo Dallas suddenly climbs to the top rope. Jordan sends Dallas flying, which distracts the referee. Jordan rolls up Miz, but the referee misses the pinfall, still distracted by Dallas. Miz kicks Jordan into Axel, who's on the apron, allowing Axel to cheap shot Jordan. Miz hits the Skull Crushing Finale on Jordan and scores the pinfall to retain his title.
Winner: The Miz, by pinfall, to retain the WWE Intercontinental Championship.

- After the match, Jason Jordan is interviewed. Jordan says he just couldn't beat Miz because the odds were against him with The Miztourage at ringside. Jordan says he doesn't respect Miz and he wants a rematch.

- Bray Wyatt vs. Finn Balor: The match closes out with Balor hitting a corner drop kick on Bray. Balor goes to the top rope, but Bray cuts him off. Balor knocks Bray off the ropes and hits Coup de Grace on Bray for a near fall. Bray and Balor trade counters until Bray drops Balor with a punch for a near fall. Bray sends Balor across the ring twice with suplexes then goes to the second rope. Balor counters by kicking Bray in the head and shoving Bray to the mat. Balor hits two straight corner drop kicks on Bray then goes to the top rope. Balor hits Coup de Grace on Bray and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Finn Balor, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Sheamus and Cesaro are interviewed. Sheamus and Cesaro state that they are alpha males and Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins are the ones that need to make adjustments. Sheamus and Cesaro predict that Ambrose and Rollins turn on each other tonight. 

- "WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship Match": Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins (c) vs. Sheamus and Cesaro: The match closes out with Sheamus and Cesaro double teaming Ambrose. Cesaro applies the Sharpshooter submission on Ambrose and then turns that into a crossface. Ambrose reaches the ropes and Sheamus tags in. Sheamus and Cesaro hit a double Irish Cross for a near fall. Cesaro and Ambrose trade punches until Ambrose hits a clothesline. Sheamus tags in and drills Ambrose with White Noise as Cesaro hits a power bomb on Rollins on top of Ambrose for a near fall. Cesaro hits a double stomp on Rollins and then tags Sheamus. Sheamus misses the Brogue Kick and Ambrose gets a near fall rollup. Sheamus tries another Brogue Kick, but accidentally nails Cesaro. Rollins hits the knee to the face on Sheamus allowing Ambrose to hit Dirty Deeds for the pinfall to retain their titles.
Winners: Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins, by pinfall, to retain the WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship.



- "WWE RAW Women's Championship, Fatal Five Way Match": Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Emma vs. Sasha Banks vs. Nia Jax vs. Bayley: The match closes out with Emma getting a near fall on Alexa. Alexa takes control and trash talks Emma. Bayley sends Alexa into the corner and then Emma butterfly suplexes Bayley. Emma gets a near fall splash on Bayley and then brawls with Sasha. Sasha hits a bulldog and double knees on Emma for a near fall. Sasha hits a backstabber on Alexa and then applies the Banks Statement submission. Bayley breaks up the submission and gets a near fall on Alexa. Bayley gets a near fall Bayley To Belly on Alexa as Sasha breaks up the pinfall. Nia attacks Sasha, drops her and hits the leg drop for a near fall. Nia charges Alexa, misses and hits the turnbuckle. Bayley gets sent into Emma, taking them both out. Alexa hits a DDT on Bayley and scores the pinfall to retain her title.
Winner: Alexa Bliss, by pinfall, to retain the WWE RAW Women's Championship.


- After the match, Alexa is interviewed. Alexa says there are alot of stars in Hollywood but there is only one true goddess and it's her.

- John Cena vs. Roman Reigns: The match closes out with Cena getting a near fall AA on Reigns. Reigns gets a near fall Superman Punch on Cena. Cena dodges the spear causing Reigns to hit the turnbuckle. Cena and Reigns end up on the second rope where Cena hits a Super AA for a near fall. Cena has words with the referee and then starts taking apart the announcers table. Cena takes Reigns on top of the announcers table and goes for an AA. Reigns counters out and spears Cena off the table and through the second announcers table. Reigns tosses Cena into the ring and gets a near fall. Cena counters a Reigns attack and hits two straight AA's for another near fall. Cena can't believe it and just stares at Reigns as he crawls to get up. Reigns pops up and hits a Superman Punch on Cena. Reigns then hits the spear on Cena and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Roman Reigns, by pinfall.


- After the match, Cena and Reigns nod at each other as a sign of respect and then Cena raises Reigns' hand. Cena walks out with a "thank you Cena" chant and salutes the fans.

- Backstage, The Miz interrupts RAW GM Kurt Angle and asks to host a very special Miz TV on RAW Monday with Roman Reigns as his guest. Miz claims to have inside information about The Shield. Angle allows the segment and says it'll kick off RAW.

- "WWE Cruiserweight Championship Match": Neville (c) vs. Enzo Amore: The match closes out with Neville grounding Enzo and mocking him. Neville hits a super kick for a near fall. Neville lays out Enzo and goes for the Red Arrow. Neville takes his time and decides to go for a Phoenix Splash instead. Enzo dodges it and Neville crashes to the mat. Enzo hits a DDG on Neville and gets a near fall. Enzo goes for a suicide dive on Neville, but catches a kick in the face. Neville tosses Enzo over the timekeepers area, but Enzo comes back and grabs the WWE Cruiserweight Championship. Enzo runs in the ring with the title and Neville chases him. The referee warns Enzo not to use it as a weapon and grabs the title away from Enzo. Enzo low blows Neville while the referee's back is turned and steals the pinfall to win the title.
Winner: Enzo Amore, by pinfall, to win the WWE Cruiserweight Championship.

- "WWE Universal Championship Match": Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Braun Strowman: The match closes out with Braun unloading on Lesnar, blocks a Lesnar swing and lands a headbutt. Lesnar goes for an F5, but Braun counters it and sends Lesnar outside. Braun follows, tosses Lesnar into the ringpost and then back into the ring. Braun tosses Lesnar into the corner a series of times, but misses a charge and hits the turnbuckle. Lesnar applies the Kimura Lock submission, but Braun fights it. Lesnar applies the pressure and gets Braun down on the mat. Braun escapes with a spinebuster and gets a near fall.
Lesnar goes behind Braun and hits the german suplex repeatedly. Lesnar yells at Braun and hits another german suplex. Lesnar hits german suplex #6 and then goes for the F5. Braun escapes and hits the running power slam on Lesnar. Braun is unable to capitalize and falls to the mat. Braun hits another running power slam on Lesnar, but still can't capitalize on a pinfall. Lesnar grabs Braun quickly, hits the F5 out of nowhere and scores the pinfall to retain the title.
Winner: Brock Lesnar, by pinfall, to retain the WWE Universal Championship.