Podcast 1/3/18: On College Bowl Games, Browns Offseason, NFL Playoffs & Coaching Moves and Movies Of 2018

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Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 1/3/18: Smackdown Live Orlando Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

What's up wrestling fans, welcome to this week's Smackdown Live recap. It's the first Smackdown Live of 2018 and things are moving full steam ahead to this year's WWE Royal Rumble.

Last week, the WWE United States Championship Tournament kicked off with Bobby Roode and Jinder Mahal winning their matches and advancing to the Final Four. Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable earned themselves a WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship match. Kevin Owens scored a non title victory over the champion AJ Styles. Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan also continued to have their problems with each other running the show. Let's get to this week's recap, live in Orlando, Florida.

** Smackdown Live Card **

- WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champions The Usos defended their titles against Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable.
- The Bludgeon Brothers battled Breezango.
- Xavier Woods battled Aiden English in the United States Championship Tournament.
- The Riot Squad battled Nattie Neidhart, Tamina and Carmella in a six woman tag team match.
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles battled Sami Zayn in a non title match.

** Smackdown Live **

- The Champ That Runs The Camp: AJ Styles kicked off Smackdown Live in the ring for a promo. Styles wishes us a Happy New Year and says that main eventing Wrestlemania 34 is his New Year's Resolution. Styles calls out Daniel Bryan to explain why Sami Zayn wasn't banned from ringside last week. Bryan arrives, but immediately gets interrupted by Shane McMahon. Shane apologizes to Styles for what happened last week. Shane asks Bryan why he allowed Zayn at ringside. Before Bryan can give any explanation, Shane cuts him off, accuses Bryan of helping Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn with their "Yep Movement" and announces that he will be at ringside tonight when Styles battles Zayn. Bryan says that we might as well let Owens at ringside too and Bryan will be there too. Bryan gets a "Yes" Chant going to end the segment.

- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match": The Usos (c) vs. Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable: The first match of the night saw the tag team titles on the line as Benjamin and Gable got their shot against The Usos, after becoming the #1 Contenders last week. The match closes out with Jimmy and Benjamin trading shots. Benjamin is tossed outside as Jey unloads on Gable. Gable is sent outside and Jey hits the Uso Dive. The Usos both run the ropes, but Benjamin trips up Jey and sends him into the apron. Benjamin and Gable power bomb Jimmy off the top rope and score the pinfall to win the titles.

- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match": The Usos (c) vs. Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable: Benjamin and Gable believed to have won the tag team titles, however, there was a huddle at ringside with the referee of the match and a second referee from backstage. Jey Uso was the legal man in the match and Jimmy was the one that was pinned. The referee restarted the match after learning of the mess up. The match closes out with both teams brawling outside. Jey with a Samoan Drop and Benjamin hits a spine buster. Benjamin and Gable attempt another top rope power bomb on Jey, but Jimmy saves him with an Uso Kick. The Usos hit double Uso Kicks and an Uso Splash off the top rope to retain their titles in this controversial match.

- Breezango vs. The Bludgeon Brothers: The second match of the night saw another match between Breezango and The Bludgeon Brothers. Before the match can even start, The Bludgeon Brothers attack Breeze and Fandango and beat them down. The Ascension hit the ring to help, but suffer the same fate and get beaten down by Harper and Rowan. The Bludgeon Brothers celebrate as the match ends in a No Contest.

- "United States Championship Tournament": Aiden English vs. Xavier Woods: The third match of the night saw the United States Championship Tournament continue. Before the match, The New Day, Aiden English and Rusev argued backstage about who was winning their match tonight. The winner of this match will battle Jinder Mahal in the Final Four. The match closes out with English getting a near fall power bomb on Woods. Woods counters a super face buster and back drops English to the mat. Woods hits the elbow drop off the top rope on English and scores the pinfall to advance to the Final Four.

- "Six Woman Tag Team Match": The Riot Squad vs. Nattie Neidhart, Tamina and Carmella: The fourth match of the night saw the women's division in six woman tag team action. The match closes out with Tamina knocking Liv Morgan off the apron and then super kicks Ruby. Tamina then plants Sarah Logan with a Samoan Drop. Tamina goes to the top rope, but gets shoved off by Liv as Ruby distracted the referee. Sarah hits a knee to the back of the head on Tamina and scores the pinfall. After the match, Ruby announces that The Riot Squad will be in the Royal Rumble and then gets interrupted by Charlotte. Charlotte calls Ruby a dreamer and then brings out Naomi and Becky Lynch. All six ladies brawl at ringside. Charlotte hits a running boot on Sarah. Naomi lays out Liv and then Becky hits the Bexploder on Liv and Ruby.

- AJ Styles vs. Sami Zayn: The main event of the show saw Styles battle Zayn. Kevin Owens, Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan were all at ringside for this match. The match closes out with Styles and Zayn trading shots that ends with a Styles Pele Kick. The referee gets knocked outside as Styles attempted a Phenomenal Forearm. Styles rolls up Zayn, but Owens distracts the referee until Shane comes over and stops it. Styles argues with the referee about missing the pinfall. Shane gets on the apron and orders the referee to eject Owens. Bryan interrupts and says that if Owens is getting ejected than so should Shane. Styles knocks Owens off the apron. Zayn hits the Helluva Kick on Styles and scores the upset pinfall. After the match, Styles tells Bryan and Shane to stop bickering and he's sick of others getting involved. Styles demands a Handicap Match against Owens and Zayn. Styles then is stunned as Bryan announces it for the WWE Royal Rumble with Styles' WWE World Heavyweight Championship on the line to end the show. 

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 1/2/18: RAW Miami 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! First off, Happy New Year wrestling fans, I hope 2018 is a great year for all of you.

Last week on RAW, John Cena returned as we get closer to the WWE Royal Rumble. Roman Reigns survived by getting DQ'ed against Samoa Joe, to retain his WWE Intercontinental Championship. The shocker of the show was the newly aligned team of Seth Rollins and Jason Jordan defeating Sheamus and Cesaro to win the WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship. What surprises would the New Year bring us with the first RAW of 2018 live in Miami, Florida.

** Monday Night RAW Card **

- WWE RAW World Tag Team Champion Jason Jordan battled Cesaro.
- Bray Wyatt battled Apollo Crews.
- WWE RAW Women's Champion Alexa Bliss battled Asuka in a non title match.
- Braun Strowman battled Rhyno.
- WWE Intercontinental Champion Roman Reigns defended his title against Samoa Joe. If Roman Reigns gets DQ'ed then Samoa Joe is automatically the new champion.
- Cedric Alexander and Goldust battled Drew Gulak and Ariya Daivari.
- The Balor Club reunited to battle Elias Samson and The Miztourage in a Six Man Tag Team Match.

** RAW Highlights **

- Kurt Angle Kicks Off The Show: RAW GM Kurt Angle kicked off RAW to wish us a happy 2018. Angle then gets into business by announcing that John Cena has officially entered this year's Royal Rumble. Angle announces that the rules to the women's Royal Rumble will be no different than the men's. Angle goes to announce tonight's plans, but gets interrupted by Sheamus and Cesaro. Sheamus and Cesaro state that they were robbed of the tag titles last week and Angle is playing favorites by allowing Jason Jordan to team with Seth Rollins and get their title shots. Sheamus and Cesaro demand their rematch tonight, but Angle cuts them off and says they'll get it when Angle says they can have it. Jason Jordan interrupts next and a verbal back and forth argument breaks out between Jordan, Angle, Sheamus and Cesaro. Seth Rollins interrupts next and says he'll stand in Jordan's corner as Angle announces Jordan vs. Cesaro right now.

- Cesaro vs. Jason Jordan: The bell sounded to kick off the opening match, as Rollins stood in Jordan's corner and Sheamus stood in Cesaro's corner. The match closes out with Cesaro taking out Jordan's knee and then arguing with the referee, allowing Sheamus to get in a cheap shot. Cesaro applies a half crab and then turns it into a Boston Crab submission. Jordan is able to reach the ropes for the submission break. Sheamus attempts another cheap shot, but Rollins stops him and lays Sheamus out. Jordan catches Cesaro during the distraction and scores the pinfall.

- Bray Wyatt vs. Apollo Crews: The second match of the night saw the eater of worlds, Bray Wyatt, battle Apollo Crews of Titus Worldwide. The match closes out with Bray in control of Crews and goes for his crab walk. Dana Brooke gets on the apron and shouts encouragement to Crews, distracting Bray. Bray scares Dana off the apron causing her to fall onto Titus. Crews hits a jumping kick on Bray and goes for the Apollo Bomb. Bray counters and hits Sister Abigail to score the pinfall. After the match, Woken Matt Hardy interrupts on the TitanTron, says he's transformed Wyatt's fireflies into his Woken Warriors and says that once Sister Abigail is gone, Bray will be deleted.

- Alexa Bliss vs. Asuka: Last week, Asuka sent a message to Alexa that she was winning the Royal Rumble and coming for Alexa. This match was made official by Kurt Angle earlier in the night. Before the match, Alexa tried to get her best friend Nia Jax to stand in her corner, however, Nia left the building to be with Enzo Amore, who was in the hospital with the flu. The match closes out with Alexa working over Asuka's rib area. Alexa unloads on Asuka in the corner and then slaps Asuka. Asuka gets fired up and unloads a series of dropkicks on Alexa. Asuka hits a corner hip attack and then a running hip attack. Asuka locks Alexa in the cross arm breaker submission and taps out the champion.

- Braun Strowman vs. Rhyno: The fourth match of the night saw #1 Contender Braun Strowman battle the ECW icon Rhyno. Heath Slater tries to distract Braun, which forces Braun to dare Slater to get in the ring and fight too. Slater does and he and Rhyno double team Braun. The match closes out with Braun hitting the running power slam on Slater and Rhyno and scores the pinfall. After the match, Braun hits three more running power slams on both Rhyno and Slater.

- "WWE Intercontinental Championship Match, If Roman Reigns Gets DQ'ed He Loses The Title": Roman Reigns (c) vs. Samoa Joe: The fifth match of the night saw Roman Reigns putting the WWE Intercontinental Championship on the line against Samoa Joe. After losing by DQ last week, the rule was set that Joe would win the title if Reigns gets DQ'ed again. The match closes out with Reigns getting warned to not to use the steel steps on Joe. Reigns hits a Superman Punch on Joe outside and another inside the ring for a near fall. Joe counters the spear and then shoves Reigns into the referee. The referee thinks Reigns hit him on purpose and goes to call for the bell, but Reigns begs him not to. Joe hits the Uranage on Reigns and gets a near fall. Joe argues with the referee and demands that Reigns should've been DQ'ed. Joe goes for the Coquina Clutch submission, but Reigns escapes and hits the spear to score the pinfall and retain the title.

- Drew Gulak And Ariya Daivari Call Off The WWE Cruiserweight Championship Match: Drew Gulak and Ariya Daivari are in the ring and announce that Enzo Amore is not here tonight to defend his title against Cedric Alexander, due to the flu. Cedric interrupts and states that since Enzo is too scared to show up then either Gulak or Daivari need to take his place. They agree but only if Cedric can find a partner and make it a tag team match. Goldust suddenly interrupts and agrees to team up with Cedric.

- Cedric Alexander and Goldust vs. Drew Gulak and Ariya Daivari: The sixth match of the night saw this match made official. The match closes out with Goldust unloading on Gulak. Goldust hits the bulldog on Gulak and then climbs the ropes and hits a cross body on Gulak and Daivari. Cedric tags in, hits a double springboard clothesline and then hits the Lumbar Check on Gulak for the pinfall.

- "Six Man Tag Team Match": The Balor Club vs. Elias Samson and The Miztourage: Earlier in the night, Finn Balor informed Kurt Angle that he found his tag team partners for tonight to battle Elias Samson and The Miztourage. Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson appeared with Balor, reuniting The Balor Club. The match closes out with Axel getting tossed outside. Anderson nails Elias and sends him into the ring post. Gallows and Anderson hit the Magic Killer on Dallas as Balor hits Coup de Grace afterwards and scores the pinfall.

- The Year Of The Beast: Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman closed out RAW this week with a promo in the ring. Heyman talks about the WWE stacking the deck against Lesnar yet again by making him fight Kane and Braun Strowman. Heyman guarantees that Lesnar will walk in and walk out of the WWE Royal Rumble still the champion. Heyman says one on one Lesnar would beat Kane, Strowman and all 30 men in the Royal Rumble. Heyman hypes Lesnar up to victory when suddenly Kane interrupts and choke slams Lesnar. Lesnar sits up like Kane, laughs at Kane and hits Kane with the title. The RAW locker room empties out and keeps Kane and Lesnar separated to end the show.

Weekend 3 Count 12/31/17

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE brings you the Weekend 3 Count. W3C brings you wrestling news, rumors and recaps from around the wrestling world. You'll find news rumors and recaps involving WWE, NXT, Impact, ROH, Lucha Underground, NJPW, House of Hardcore, NWA, ICW, CZW, FIP, PWG, AAW, EVOLVE, PROGRESS, SHINE, SHIMMER, BEYOND, DEFIANT and any Indy promotion that I find an interesting story or a cool discovery in. Be sure to check out the W3C every Sunday afternoon at @TripleThreatCLE

*** WWE ***

- John Cena's Return: This past week on Monday Night RAW, John Cena returned to action as he battled Elias Samson. According to reports, Cena is expected to stick around for a few more weeks leading into the WWE Royal Rumble at the end of January.

- New Tag Team Champions Crowned: If you missed Monday Night RAW this past week, there were new WWE RAW World Tag Team Champions crowned. Seth Rollins and Jason Jordan defeated Sheamus and Cesaro to close out 2017 the new tag team champions.

- Jason Jordan Makes History: After winning the WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship this past Monday, Jason Jordan has made some history as well. Jordan currently is the first and only superstar to win the NXT World Tag Team Championship, the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship and the WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship.

- Dolph Ziggler Stripped Of The WWE United States Championship: This past Tuesday on Smackdown Live, GM Daniel Bryan announced that Dolph Ziggler was being stripped of the WWE United States Championship, after Ziggler laid down the title in the ring, walked out and hasn't been heard from since.

- WWE United States Championship Tournament Announced: This past Tuesday on Smackdown Live, GM Daniel Bryan announced a tournament to crown a new WWE United States Champion. Bobby Roode defeated Baron Corbin and Jinder Mahal defeated Tye Dillinger to start it off. The winner of Aiden English vs. Xavier Woods will face Mahal and the winner of Zack Ryder vs. Mojo Rawley will battle Roode in the final four.

- Batista Return Possible?: According to Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Batista has stated that he would love to return to the WWE for one more full time run with the company. Batista stated that he's been eyeing a lengthy return to the WWE, one that could last up to a whole year. Batista stated that he has already met with Vince McMahon about the idea and Batista would love to have a long feud with Triple H during that year. I'll keep you posted on this news as more is revealed.

- Randy Orton Taking A Hiatus?: According to PWInsider.com, Randy Orton could be out of action for most of February and all of March and will also work a light schedule in January. Rumors are stating that this could be leading to Orton eventually stepping down into a part time role with the company as well with Brock Lesnar, John Cena and Chris Jericho.

- Dean Ambrose Update: The Tuesday before Christmas, Dean Ambrose underwent successful surgery to repair a high grade triceps tendon injury. The procedure was performed by Dr. Jeffrey Dugas in Birmingham, Ala., and took around 40 minutes. Ambrose has begun physical therapy, starting with light range of motion exercises. Ambrose is expected to miss Wrestlemania 34, as he will be out for at least 9 months.

- Brian Kendrick Injured: This past Monday on RAW, Brian Kendrick was sent to local hospital to be checked for a potential injury, after taking a stiff Go To Sleep from Hideo Itami during their match. After tests came back it was discovered that Kendrick suffered a fractured orbital bone and a fractured nasal bridge. It's unknown at this time how long Kendrick will be out for.

- Paige Injured: This past Wednesday night at a live WWE event, Paige suffered a kick to the back by Sasha Banks which caused the match to be stopped and Paige in need of assistance. According to fans in attendance, initially, a stretcher was brought out, but Paige was able to walk to the back with the help of the doctors.

- Go To Sleep Banned: It was announced this week that after Hideo Itami accidentally injured Brian Kendrick delivering the Go To Sleep, Vince McMahon officially has banned the move from being used.

- Ronda Rousey News: After the announcement of the first ever Women's Royal Rumble at the WWE Royal Rumble, rumors began on a possible Ronda Rousey appearance in the match. Sources have said, however, that Rousey is still in training for her WWE debut and will also be filming a movie with Mark Wahlberg during the Royal Rumble time frame. It looks like her debut at the WWE Royal Rumble is false unless things change up to match time.

- Possible Fastlane Main Event Spoiler: The Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio has recently announced a Fatal Five Way Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at the Smackdown Live pay per view WWE Fastlane on March 11th. WWE have not confirmed this match to be true at the moment, but if it pans out to be true then it'll be WWE World Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles defending his championship in the Fatal Five Way Match against Shinsuke Nakamura, Randy Orton, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens.

** 205 Live Recap **

- Jack Gallagher vs. Hideo Itami: The first match of the night saw Gallagher looking to get revenge on Itami after Itami injured Brian Kendrick on Monday Night RAW. Itami locks in a submission on Gallagher and makes him tap out to get the victory.

- Tony Nese vs. Akira Tozawa: Earlier in the night Nese stated that he wanted to take out everyone in the Zo Train, but understands that Enzo Amore is the star of 205 Live and Nese has learned his place. Tozawa mocked Nese for that decision and ended up getting slapped in the face by Nese. The match closes out with Nese hitting the running knees on Tozawa and scoring the pinfall.

- Ariya Daivari and Drew Gulak vs. Cedric Alexander and Mustafa Ali: Earlier in the night, Cedric tries to talk sense into Gulak that Enzo Amore is just using him. The match closes out with Ali hitting the 054 Splash on Daivari and scoring the pinfall.

*** NXT ***

- Johnny Gargano New #1 Contender: This past week on NXT TV, Johnny Gargano officially became the new #1 Contender to the NXT World Championship, after defeated Aleister Black, Lars Sullivan and Killian Dain in a Fatal Four Way Match.

- NXT Takeover Philadelphia: With Johnny Gargano winning the Fatal Four Way Match, the official main event at NXT Takeover Philadelphia will be Andrade "Cien" Almas defending the NXT World Championship against Johnny Gargano. NXT Takeover Philadelphia will take place the night before WWE Royal Rumble.

- Shayna Bazsler Debuts: This past week on NXT TV, Shayna Bazsler made her official NXT debut, by attacking and choking out Kairi Sane.

- WWE Adds A 5th NXT Yearly Pay Per View: WWE announced this week that NXT will get a 5th yearly Takeover Pay Per View, starting this year. WWE will be including WWE Money In The Bank as their 5th main pay per view that will include all of RAW and Smackdown Live stars. NXT will get their pay per view the Saturday before Money In The Bank.

- James Storm Asked About Signing With NXT: Former Impact wrestler James Storm was interviewed recently and was asked about whether or not he would return to NXT if he was offered a spot on the roster again. Storm stated that he has been hitting the gym daily and keeping in excellent shape, just in case he was made an offer by any promotion out there right now. Storm stated that NXT in his eyes is a huge promotion on its own now and any wrestler should be honored to accept a roster spot with the company. Storm stated that he would love to have a good run in NXT and also help out the up and comers in the company. Will we see The Cowboy return?? Will have to stay tuned and find out.

*** Impact Wrestling ***

- Ethan Carter Files Documents To Trademark His Name: Impact Wrestling star EC3 has filed documents this past week in an attempt to legally own his character’s name. EC3 filed trademark documents which state that he wants to use the name for “Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer. The documents also note that he wants to use the name for “conducting fitness classes.” Impact Wrestling announced a few weeks ago that they were allowing all Impact Wrestlers past and present the opportunity to keep their gimmicks that they created in Impact Wrestling. This opened the door to allow Matt Hardy to debut his Broken/Woken gimmick finally in the WWE.

*** NEW JAPAN PRO WRESTLING ***

- Young Lion Cup Winner: Last week the 11th Annual Young Lion Cup Tournament finished up at NJPW Lion's Gate Project 10. Katsuya Kitamura came out victorious in the tournament and claimed the Young Lion Cup Trophy. The following is the final standings of the tournament.

- Katsuya Kitamura 10
- Hirai Kawato 8
- Tomoyuki Oka 6
- Shota Umino 4
- Ren Narita 1
- Tetsuhiro Yagi 1

And that's this week's W3C! Join me every Sunday afternoon as I bring you news, recaps and rumors all around the wrestling world!

The Truth About The 0-16 Browns "Parade"

By Jason Disantis, @JasonInCLE

I get it…

Some will say I don’t.  But I do.

The problem is they don’t. 

Who is they?

Everyone participating and supporting in the 0-16 parade. 

If you want to go and have a good time, knock yourself out.  Sing, dance, make balloon animals.  Do whatever the hell it is you guys have planned.  Whoop it up like you never have before.  But if you do go to the parade there are a couple things that have to be made crystal clear.

You, nor your leader Chris McNeil, are doing yeoman’s work.

This event has been called a parade since it became a thing last year when the Browns were approaching the “perfect” winless season.  But as the chances of this parade have gone from doubtful to almost certain, I’ve noticed a change in tone regarding how they want it to be seen.  McNeil and his supporters want it to be seen as a protest.  They have said that it is a message being sent, “a shot across the bow” to Jimmy Haslam and the front office of the Cleveland Browns.   

Stop it.  You sound ridiculous.

There are a couple reasons I doubt his sincerity in the “protest” message. 

If this parade is honestly meant to send a message to Jimmy Haslam they would be having it regardless of if they win this Sunday.  Let’s be honest.  There’s no difference between 1-15 and 0-16.  If you believe the organization is inept today, a win in the last game of the season doesn’t change that.  Beating the Steelers doesn’t suddenly make them smarter. 

Secondly, the idea that this parade is going to send a message to Jimmy Haslam is ridiculous.  At the end of this season they will be 1-31 over the last two years…  1-31…

If the worst two-year stretch of football in the history of the world doesn’t send a message, if declining attendance and an empty stadium doesn’t send a message, what-in-the-hell makes you think your parade is going to send a message? 

I’ve seen tweets of people saying, “when the Browns are good in a couple years you can thank this parade for putting pressure on them.”  And “all these idiots attacking [McNeil] for the parade is EXACTLY why Haslam doesn’t give a shit if the team sucks.  You idiots keep spending money on the worst team in sports history.  Why would he care to fix it if it’s still profitable?”

What the hell is wrong with you people?  (The funny thing about the second tweet, is one of those “idiots” he’s talking about is McNeil, as he is a season ticket holder)

The man is a billionaire.  You think YOU can shame him?

Another one of my problems with the parade is the effect it will have on the city.  A city that McNeil isn’t even from or currently reside in. 

The day after the Houston Astros won their first World Series Championship I drove to work and had to hear national moron Boomer Esiason use his CBS sports minute not to talk about the historical year the Astros had or what it meant to the city of Houston. 

Nope. 

Instead he used it to tear apart Cleveland as a bunch of losers.

Now what Boomer Esiason has to say doesn’t mean much and only solidifies him as a jack-ass.  But as a Clevelander you get tired of hearing it. 

And that’s my final point.

If you’re supporting this parade, then you can no longer mention your heart ache or frustration with the many egregious events of Cleveland sports history. 

The Shot.  The Drive.  The Fumble.  Red-right 88.  The Decision.  Jose Mesa.  Tony Fernandez. 

And now…  The Parade. 

Because I guarantee when the historic blunder that is this season is written in the annals of history it will be known as “The Parade.”

And you will have been a part of it.    

I don’t know McNeil personally and in no way am I questioning his fandom and commitment to Cleveland sports teams (or anyone else for that matter).  I follow him on Twitter and he’s a good follow and pretty funny most of the time.  Hell, I tip my hat to him for convincing thousands of people they’re making some kind of change and holding Haslam’s feet to the fire.  We both know that’s not true.  And if the Browns somehow win this weekend all the money collected for the parade will be donated to the Cleveland Food Bank, which is a great cause and should be applauded.     

So, with that being said, go to the parade.  Have fun.  Drink, eat, and be merry.  But if you do go don’t for one second think you are doing anything other than having a good time.  You’re not sending a message to the front office.  Nothing will change because you took a lap around the stadium.  The nation isn’t laughing with you.  They’re laughing at you.  The only ones being embarrassed by this parade is yourselves and this city.  You are solidifying your spot in Cleveland sports history.  And not in the good way. 

Browns Preview 12/29/17: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

It's the season finale for the Browns as they try and fend off 0-16 for The Browns will be taking on the Steelers' backups since they've already clinched a first round bye in the playoffs. The Steelers are likely starting Landry Jones at quarterback and won't be playing running back Le'Veon Bell this game either. It's unknown what other players besides Bell, Antonio Brown, and Ben Roethlisberger will be sitting for this matchup so the preview will be even more Browns focused than usual.


Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

I honestly don't really know what to say when it comes to the Browns offense. We've watched it all year, and it stinks. DeShone Kizer can't play a game where he doesn't turn the ball over and because of his poor decision making teams either bring pressure or shade coverage to Josh Gordon. Kizer needs to spread the ball much better than he has and if he doesn't do it early, Hue Jackson better pull him if he wants any chance to win.

It's also on Hue Jackson to run the ball. I know Isaiah Crowell is in the dog house and is most likely playing his last game in a Browns uniform but it's in Hue's best interest to run the ball with any of the three backs on the roster because of the poor weather conditions. It's unfortunate that it's come down to Jackson's playcalling instead of players on the field, but for once this season Hue has to coach to what he has to work with...



Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

With the unknown of who's going to be playing on the offensive side of the ball the key for the defense should be simple. Get to Landry Jones and force a turnover or two. The running game for the Steelers shouldn't be much of a factor since Bell and Connor are out for the game so it's time for Gregg Williams to bring pressure and make Jones uncomfortable in the pocket. If Jones beats the Browns defense then good on him.





Five Guys To Watch


1. Myles Garrett: Garrett missed the week one matchup because of an injury. Now I know he isn't going against number 7 but it would be nice to show Pittsburgh what they have to deal with for the next 10 years.

2. Jabrill Peppers: This is another game where we get to see Peppers play near the line of scrimmage more. I wonder if the plan for next year is to have Peppers line up more at the strong safety spot rather than free safety 25 yards away from the snap.

3. Jason McCourty: McCourty has played really well this season. As the leader of the defense he needs to make a huge play in this game. Whether it's an interception or a forced fumble, the Browns haven't really made a huge play on defense this year.

4. Hue Jackson: Hue Jackson should be coaching for his job Sunday. It's pretty simple...How can the Browns honestly bring back a coach who could potentially go 1-31 in two seasons...

5. Jimmy Haslam: Now I know Haslam isn't a part of any of the game day stuff but he's someone everyone is going to be watching once the game is over. Even though he said Hue will be back for 2018 a few weeks ago going 0-16 could potentially change that whether or not it's for the good or the bad.


Weather Report:

Injury Report:

Betting Line (As of 12/28/17): Pittsburgh -8

Prediction:

As hard as it is to go 16-0 it might be just as hard to go 0-16. Terrible teams somehow win a couple game per year, but the Browns haven't which is nuts...That being said the NFL is set up for teams to basically win six games a year which is why I think the Browns are going to somehow win this game. The Steelers are resting most of their players and the Browns are fighting history...only one team has gone 0-16 and each member of the Browns don't want to be added to the list of players that have played on a winless team.

Final Score:
Browns: 17 Steelers: 14

Cotton Bowl Preview 12/28/17: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. USC Trojans

By Jason Disantis, @JasonInCLE


The Ohio State Buckeyes missed out on the College Football Playoff this year as the committee ranked them at No.5 putting them one spot away from their third appearance in the final four. Although the Big Ten Champs won’t be playing for a National Title the Buckeyes were rewarded with a showdown against Pac 12 Champs, USC.

Although not a Playoff game, the nations attention will be squarely on AT&T Stadium Friday night for a number of reasons.

Ohio State and USC carry the rich histories of traditional powers. They are both in the top ten in National Championships and two of the winningest programs in college football history with over 800 wins a piece.

Not only have these two prestigious powers been successful at the team level but they have also put on display some of the biggest stars to walk on the field at the college level. Ohio State and USC (along with Notre Dame) have had the most Heisman trophy winners of any other college football program, each with seven. And there will be no shortage of stars come Friday night in Arlington.

The big question for the Buckeyes is will they be able to stop USC star quarterback and potential No.1 pick in the upcoming draft, Sam Darnold.

Darnold ended his 2016 campaign by putting on a show by throwing for 5 touchdowns and over 400 yards in a Rose Bowl win against Penn State. That game put Darnold on the short list for the Heisman in 2017 and people were already talking about him being the No.1 pick when he decided to declare.

Although the statistics show a small regression for Darnold in 2017 he is still considered one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Over the past five games he has really upped his play throwing for nine touchdowns to just two interceptions. At 6-4, 220 pounds Darnold has all of the physical measurables you look for. He has a big arm and can make all of the throws but his most impressive skill, and the one the Buckeyes will have to be increasingly aware of, is his ability to make plays out of the pocket.

Darnold has a QBR of 68.2 when throwing outside of the pocket completing 59 percent of those passes to go with six touchdowns. When outside the pocket Darnold leads the nation in touchdown passes, yards, completions over 20-yards and first downs. It is the ability to make a play anywhere on the field that makes Darnold so dangerous.

The Buckeyes will counter with their own star quarterback and high-powered offense.

Despite not being the NFL prospect Darnold is, J.T. Barrett has been one of the greatest quarterbacks in Ohio State and Big Ten history. Barrett owns all of the Buckeye passing records and became a legend when he won the Big Ten Championship against an undefeated Wisconsin a week after having knee surgery. Barrett has thrown for more touchdowns and less interceptions than Darnold this season and while Darnold has the ability to make a play with his legs, he isn’t on the same level of J.T. Barrett. Barrett has run for over 3000 yards and 41 touchdowns in his Ohio State career. Over 700 of those yards and 10 touchdowns were tallied up in 2017.

While this game will boast two of the nations most impressive offenses, it is on the defensive side that the biggest differences can be seen.

The Buckeyes are allowing over 100 yards and touchdown less per game than the Trojans. They are lead by the nations best defensive line and another highly touted draft prospect, consensus All-American cornerback Denzel Ward.

The Ohio State Buckeyes have a chance to finish the 2017 season on the right note and set the tone for 2018. Some faces will be new, others familiar. Once again, they will be among the favorites for the 2018 National Title and there is no better way to begin that journey than by finishing this one.





What: The Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. University of Southern California Trojans
When: December 29, 2017 at 8:30 PM ET
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Watch: ESPN
Spread: OSU -7.5
Over/Under: 64.5
Money Line: OSU -300, USC +240

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 12/28/17: NXT Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

NXT returned this week for more NXT action at Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida. This week, a new number one contender to the NXT World Championship was decided. NXT Women's Champion Ember Moon was also in action, defending her championship against Sonya Deville.

** NXT TV Card **

- The Street Profits battled Kris Starr and Riley Apex.
- NXT Women's Champion Ember Moon defended her title against Sonya Deville.
- Johnny Gargano, Lars Sullivan, Aleister Black and Killian Dain battled in a Fatal Four Way Match to determine a new number one contender to the NXT World Championship. 

** NXT **

- The Street Profits vs. Kris Starr and Riley Apex: The first match of the night kicked off NXT with tag team action. The current undefeated Street Profits took on Kris Starr and Riley Apex. The match closes out with The Street Profits making quick work of their opponents. Dawkins hits a big spine buster and Ford follows with a frog splash to score the pinfall.

- "NXT Women's Championship Match": Ember Moon (c) vs. Sonya Deville: The second match of the night saw Ember Moon put her title on the line against Sonya Deville. The match closes out with Sonya locking in a bear hug, but Ember escapes, blocks a wheel barrow lift and sends Sonya into the corner. Ember unloads on Sonya and gets a near fall. Ember hits a springboard drop kick and finishes Sonya off with the Eclipse Stunner for the pinfall. After the match, Kairi Sane appears and stares down Ember. Shayna Baszler suddenly debuts on NXT and chokes Kairi out on the stage.

- "#1 Contenders, Fatal Four Way Match": Killian Dain vs. Lars Sullivan vs. Aleister Black vs. Johnny Gargano: The main event of the show saw the Fatal Four Way Match to crown a new #1 Contender to the NXT World Championship. The match closes out with Sullivan taking out Black and Gargano then faces off with Dain. Black comes back in and unloads strikes on both Dain and Sullivan. Black nails the Black Mass kick and covers, but Undisputed Era hit the ring and interrupt the match. Gargano unloads on Undisputed Era and then tries to cover Black. Sullivan gets sent into the steel steps and then Gargano sends Dain into Sullivan after a counter. Gargano hits a leaping DDT and scores the pinfall to take the victory.

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 12/27/17: Smackdown Live Chicago Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Smackdown Live was live this week in Chicago, Illinois, for night number two in the WWE's two night visit in the Windy City. Who will step up and try to make a name for themselves as we continue to move on to the WWE Royal Rumble??

** Smackdown Live Card **

- Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable, Rusev and Aiden English and The New Day battled in a #1 Contenders Triple Threat Match.
- The Bludgeon Brothers battled Breezango.
- Ruby Riot battled Naomi.
- Bobby Roode battled Baron Corbin in a WWE United States Championship Tournament match.
- Tye Dillinger battled Jinder Mahal in a WWE United States Championship Tournament Match.
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles battled Kevin Owens in a non title match.

** Smackdown Live **

- Daniel Bryan Addresses The WWE United States Championship and World Tag Team Championship Situations: Daniel Bryan kicked off Smackdown Live and officially announced that he has not heard anything from Dolph Ziggler all week since he laid down the WWE United States Championship. Bryan wishes Ziggler luck, officially strips Ziggler of the title and announces a tournament to decide a new champion. Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable interrupt and demand to know what will be done about the tag team titles because they've never been given their fair match alone against The Usos. Rusev and Aiden English interrupt next with English singing about them deserving a tag team title match. The New Day interrupt next and claim that they too deserve a tag team title match. Bryan puts an end to the arguing and bickering and announces a Triple Threat Match right now with the winners becoming the #1 Contenders.

- "Triple Threat, #1 Contenders Match": The New Day vs. Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable vs. Rusev and Aiden English: The first match kicked off just like Daniel Bryan said with the winning team becoming the new #1 Contenders to the tag team titles. The match closes out with Rusev applying a double Accolade submission on both Woods and Gable, but Benjamin breaks the submission with a head kick. Big E spears Benjamin and then attempts the Big Ending. Benjamin counters but eats an elbow. Big E goes to the top rope, but Benjamin and Gable counter, hit a double team finisher and score the pinfall.

- Daniel Bryan And Shane McMahon Continue To Have Problems: Shane confronts Bryan backstage and says that he still feels upset about Bryan comparing Shane to his father, Vince McMahon. Shane says Vince may be a vicious son of a bitch, but you have to give credit where it's due and he has revolutionized sports entertainment. Bryan accuses Shane of throwing around his weight. Shane accuses Bryan of doing the same and suggests that he should've announced Bobby Roode vs. Baron Corbin for the WWE United States Championship instead of a tournament. Shane then questions Bryan on why he would announce AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens tonight and not ban Sami Zayn from ringside. Bryan says he announced the tournament because this is the land of opportunity and he announced Styles vs. Owens because they had a great feud in 2017 and that's how he wanted to end the year. 

- Breezango vs. The Bludgeon Brothers: The second match of the night saw tag team action, with a rematch from WWE Clash of Champions. The match closes out with The Bludgeon Brothers in full control of the match when suddenly The Ascension hit the ring. The Ascension carry Breezango out of the ring and to safety, ending the match in a No Contest. After the match, The Ascension demand a match against The Bludgeon Brothers next week so they can get revenge for their friends Breezango.

- Ruby Riott vs. Naomi: The third match of the night saw the Women's Division in action. The match closes out with Liv Morgan getting on the apron, but gets knocked off by Naomi. Sarah Logan tries to distract Naomi, but it doesn't work either. Ruby takes out Naomi's knee and then nails the Riot Kick for the pinfall. After the match, the Riot Squad beat down Naomi until Charlotte hits the ring. Charlotte clotheslines Sarah, takes out Liv then goes after Ruby. The Riot Squad finally gain the advantage and beat down Charlotte. Nattie Neidhart, Tamina, Lana and Carmella hit the ring and chase the Riot Squad away.

- "WWE United States Championship Tournament First Round Match": Bobby Roode vs. Baron Corbin: The WWE United States Championship Tournament kicked off with Roode vs. Corbin. The match closes out with Corbin countering the Glorious DDT and hits Deep Six on Roode for a near fall. Corbin puts Roode in the corner and goes for a super plex. Roode fights his way out and then lands a head butt on Corbin. Roode gets caught coming off the ropes by Corbin. Roode counters Corbin and gets the rollup pinfall for the win.

- "WWE United States Championship Tournament First Round Match": Tye Dillinger vs. Jinder Mahal: The fifth match of the night saw the second match in the WWE United States Championship Tournament take place between Dillinger and Mahal. The match closes out with Mahal countering the Tye Breaker, and then rolling through on a Dillinger cross body for a near fall. Mahal hits a gut buster on Dillinger for a near fall. Dillinger counters Mahal offense and gets a near fall DDT. Mahal catches Dillinger and hits the Cobra Clutch Slam for the pinfall.

- AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens: The main event of the show saw Styles battle Owens. Styles stated that he didn't care whether or not Sami Zayn was with Owens tonight or not because it wouldn't make a difference with Styles being the best on the roster. Owens stated that he would prove tonight that he is better than the phenomenal one and has his guardian angel Sami Zayn in his corner. The match closes out with Styles suicide diving onto Zayn as he attempted a distraction. Styles sends Owens into the ring post then back into the ring.

Styles attempts the Phenomenal Forearm, but Zayn distracts Styles, allowing Owens to land a super kick for a near fall. Shane McMahon hits the ring and demands the referee to eject Zayn. The referee, Shane and Zayn are all arguing as Styles rolls up Owens, but the referee doesn't see the pinfall. Owens rolls up Styles and steals the pinfall as the referee finally turns around and sees it. After the match, an upset Styles stares down Shane McMahon to end the show.