Jackson, Arenas, Auriemma, and random observations on the wonderful world of sports.

In the words of the great San Francisco Chronicle sports columnist Scott Ostler, here are my deep thoughts, cheap shots, and bon mots:

---They are calling it the New Miracle at the Meadowlands. Micheal Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles orchestrated one of the greatest fourth-quarter comebacks in NFL history on Sunday afternoon at New Meadowlands Stadium, shocking the Giants en route to a 38-31 win for the ages. Down 31-10 with less than eight minutes remaining, Vick calmly led Philly to victory. It was another astonishing performance from the Eagles quarterback. Tom Brady is great, but make no mistake: Michael Vick is the Most Valuable Player in the National Football League. He has been electrifying this season.

---Speaking of electrifying, how about DeSean Jackson? Jackson has always been a marvel on the football field, and his thrilling punt return for the game-winning TD yesterday may well be the seminal moment of the 2010 NFL regular season. Many people decry Jackson's incessant showboating, but with the way he continues to excel on the field, he deserves to carry himself with some swagger.

---For my money, the Philadelphia Eagles are the favorites in the wide-open NFC. The defending-champion Saints are mired in inconsistency, and the NFC North-leading Bears still strike me as underwhelming. Thus, look for the Eagles to be playing in the Super Bowl.

---As for the Giants, anything is possible, and it is just one loss. However, it is hard to imagine the G-Men bouncing back from such a brutal defeat. Big Blue looked like they had just attended their own funeral in the aftermath of Sunday's stunner, and Coach Tom Coughlin certainly didn't boost his team's morale by publicly lambasting punter Matt Dodge after Dodge's ill-advised punt to DeSean Jackson in the game's final seconds. Coughlin has every right to be upset at Dodge for his glaring mistake, but screaming at him in plain view only made matters worse. Coughlin should have checked his emotions and talked to Dodge in the privacy of the Giants' locker room in an effort to spare Dodge from further embarrassment.

---All is not lost in the Big Apple, however, as the New York Jets came up with a huge win in Pittsburgh against the Steelers. The Jets are now back in business, and the victory in the Steel City has rejuvenated Rex Ryan's team with newfound swagger, swagger that will carry them into the playoffs.

---How about that NFC West? As a Niners fan, I am embarrassed to say that the NFC Worst is enduring an absolutely egregious season. Am I excited that the Niners still have a chance to host a playoff game if they win the division at 7-9? Hell to the no. I am completely disillusioned with Mike Singletary and company. The Red and Gold need a complete overhaul this offseason. As much as I like Singletary personally, he has got to go, as does quarterback Alex Smith. The Niners need a new regime if they are to rise out of their current awfulness.

---On to the best league in sports now, the National Basketball Association. There was a blockbuster trade over the weekend involving the Magic, Suns, and Wizards, sending Gilbert Arenas, Jason Richardson, and Hedo Turkoglu to Orlando. In return, the Magic shipped Vince Carter, Marcin Gortat, and Mikael Pietrus to Phoenix, and sent Rashard Lewis to Washington. Wow. So much to digest here, so let's break down the trade team-by-team.

---Ultimately, I like this trade for Orlando. It remains to be seen whether the artist formerly known as Agent Zero can return to his elite ways playing alongside Dwight Howard, but Gilbert Arenas will definitely be a productive force for Stan Van Gundy's team. With a fresh start in Florida, Arenas should be able to put that gun debacle behind him and focus solely on basketball. However, as integral as Arenas will be for the Magic, the real stroke of genius by G.M. Otis Smith is the acquisition of Jason Richardson and Hedo Turkoglu. As a Warriors fan, I have long been a big admirer of J-Rich, one of my favorite players. Richardson is a superb, savvy, electrifying player, and he is a steal for the Magic. And while Turkoglu has struggled these past two seasons in Toronto and Phoenix, my guess is that his return to Orlando will have an invigorating effect on his game. Look for Turkoglu to once again be a clutch sharpshooter capable of winning games for the Magic. I still like the Celtics in the East, but my goodness, Orlando is one hell of a deep team.

---However, before Magic fans start celebrating in the streets, they should be cognizant of the fact that they gave up a lot of terrific talent in this deal, and that is precisely why I also love this trade for the Phoenix Suns. Granted, losing J-Rich hurts, but the additions of Marcin Gortat, Mikael Pietrus, and yes, even Vince Carter make the Suns better equipped for playoff-style basketball. In other words, the presence of Gortat finally gives Phoenix a formidable center, something they have been sorely lacking for quite some time. Furthermore, Pietrus is a versatile scorer and top-notch defender. If he can get healthy from a knee injury that has hampered him this season, Pietrus will be a big part of the Suns' success. And while I have always believed Vince Carter to be amongst the game's most overrated players, Steve Nash will bring out the best in V.C.

---The trade is less monumental for the Washington Wizards, but it is still a positive deal for Flip Saunders' team. The departure of Arenas means that the Wizards can finally usher in John Wall as the face of the franchise. Wall is now the sole leader of the franchise, and that should excite Wizards fans. The addition of Rashard Lewis is also crucial for the Wizards. With Wall, Lewis, and Nick Young, the Wizards now have three significant scoring threats. Washington is in rebuilding mode, but this deal moves them a step in the right direction.

---Congratulations to Geno Auriemma and the incredible UConn Huskies, as the Connecticut women have won 88 consecutive games, tying the record previously held by John Wooden's UCLA Bruins. While women's college hoops would benefit if there were more teams of UConn's caliber, there is no denying the fact that this is an amazing streak, a remarkable feat that deserves to be applauded.

Crawford, Brady, Wilbon, and random observations on the wonderful world of sports

In the words of the great San Francisco Chronicle sports columnist Scott Ostler, here are my deep thoughts, cheap shots, and bon mots:

---The American League has a new team to beat. Just days after signing slugger Adrian Gonzalez, the Boston Red Sox inked versatile outfielder Carl Crawford to a 7-year, $142 million deal. Crawford, who had been an integral part of the Tampa Bay Rays' success the last few seasons, is one of the best, most well-rounded players in the game. Say what you want about the absurdity of awarding a player a cool $142 million, but there is no denying the fact that the Crawford and Gonzalez signings make Terry Francona's team the favorites not only in the American League East, but in the American League.

---In addition to dealing a major blow to the Rays, who with the departure of Crawford have lost one of their most vital players, the Crawford acquisition for Boston also serves as a forceful taunt to the rival Yankees. The Yankees, fresh off an embarrassingly public spat with Derek Jeter, better sign Cliff Lee, or they risk entering the 2011 campaign at a notable disadvantage to the Red Sox.

---However, one thing Red Sox fans no longer have a right to do is complain about the big-spending ways of the archrival Yankees. As evidenced by the enormous contract awarded to Carl Crawford, Theo Epstein and the Sox are now just as likely as the Yankees to succumb to excessive contracts.

---The Crawford signing comes days after the Washington Nationals signed Jayson Werth to a 7-year, $126 million dollar megadeal. While Werth is a terrific player who makes the Nats an infinitely better team, the spending in baseball this offseason is getting a little out of hand. What's next, 8 years and $150 million for Johnny Damon?

---On to the NFL now, where the New York Jets are still nursing their wounds after an astonishing 45-3 loss to the New England Patriots. I love the bravura of Rex Ryan and the Jets, but that was an old-fashioned ass-kicking on Monday night.

---In addition to asserting their place as the best team in the AFC right now, the Patriots' dominating performance against the Jets also proved that there is still a gaping discrepancy between Tom Brady and Mark Sanchez. Even after his nightmarish outing in Foxboro, I remain a big fan of Mark Sanchez. However, Tom Brady is the best quarterback in football, and Sanchez still has a ways to go before joining Brady's elite realm. Brady was in full command on Monday night, picking apart the Jets' D with effortless ease.

---The Brady-Peyton Manning debate isn't so much of a debate right now. Peyton Manning, like Brady, is one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history, but he is enduring one of the worst slumps I have ever seen an elite player go through. Manning's woes continued this past Sunday against the Cowboys. I have complete faith that Manning will turn things around, but he is throwing so many interceptions right now that even Jake Delhomme is saying: "Now that is too many picks, Peyton."

---The Albert Haynesworth-Mike Shanahan saga continues in D.C., and it is impossible to take a side in this feud. On the one hand, you have an incessantly lazy and petulant player who is never shy to put his glaring immaturity on full display. On the other hand, you have a once-great coach who has looked inexplicably incompetent this season at the helm of the Redskins, a coach who has seemingly lost the trust of his players.

---On to the best sports league now, the National Basketball Association, where the Miami Heat are starting to hit their stride, much to my chagrin. Miami delivered its' best performance of the season last night in Salt Lake City, where they convincingly beat a terrific Jazz team in front of the tremendous Jazz fans. The Heat successfully combated a hostile environment, thanks in large part to the efforts of Dwayne Wade and LeBron James. When Wade or James has an off night, Erik Spoelstra's team is hard-pressed to find a victory. But when Wade and LeBron work in tandem, the results are frightening for Miami's opponents. Bummer!

---On the bright side, the Heat are still only the third-best team in the East, behind the Celtics and Magic. Boston and Orlando continue to play brilliant basketball, and what stands them apart from the Heat is their remarkable depth. If Rondo, Pierce, Allen, or Garnett are struggling, the Celtics can turn to Nate Robinson, Marquis Daniels, Glen Davis, and Shaq to buoy them to victory. If Dwight Howard, Vince Carter, Jameer Nelson, or Rashard Lewis are struggling, the Magic can turn to J.J. Redick, Marcin Gortat, and Brandon Bass. So while the Heat are starting to play better basketball, they are still unable to match the depth of Boston and Orlando, and that will prevent them from making a deep run in the playoffs.

---The Denver Nuggets need to settle the Carmelo Anthony situation, A.S.A.P. In terms of motivation and energy, something is amiss for 'Melo right now, and the weight of the trade rumors has caused immense dysfunction and frustration for George Karl's team. The Nuggets are a tremendously talented team that has what it takes to challenge for a top-tier playoff seed, but they will be unable to reach their full potential as long as the 'Melo rumors persist.

---Everyone knows about John Wall, the phenomenal rookie for the Washington Wizards. But while watching Tuesday's Wizards-Lakers game, I was struck by another superb young player for Washington: Nick Young. Young is an explosively athletic player with star potential, a true joy to watch. With Wall and Young, as well as fellow youngster JaVale McGee, the future is bright for Flip Saunders' team.

---The Mavs are playing outstanding basketball. Amar'e Stoudamire, Raymond Felton, and the New York Knicks are on a roll. But no team is playing better than the San Antonio Spurs. Aside from the slight disappointment of Tiago Spliatter, who has yet to fulfill his potential, there is nothing to complain about in San Antonio. Sorry Lakers fans, the Spurs are my pick to win the West.

---The college football coaching carousel has returned, as Urban Meyer shocked the sports world yesterday by announcing his resignation as coach of the University of Florida. Meyer's announcement comes just one year after he took a brief leave of absence due to health issues. Meyer cites his desire to spend more time with his family as the primary reason for his resignation, and I have no reason to doubt his sincerity. However, Meyer should have given the Gators more notice, as his sudden departure jeopardizes Florida's future recruits and future success as a program. Why do so many coaches find it acceptable to announce their departures in shocking, untimely fashion?

---In college basketball, what has happened to the North Carolina Tar Heels? Rumor has it that Carolina loves listening to Tom Petty in the locker room before games. What is there favorite song, again? Oh yeah: "Free Fallin'".

---I will end with an appreciation of the great Michael Wilbon. Wilbon, one of the very best sportswriters in the nation and the co-host of "Pardon the Interruption" on ESPN as well as an NBA analyst for the network, has left the Washington Post to take on a wider role at ESPN. In addition to his "PTI" and NBA analyst duties, Wilbon will be a columnist for ESPN.com and ESPNChicago.com. I urge sports fans to seek out every one of Wilbon's columns, and to watch him on "PTI" and on ESPN's NBA coverage. There are very few people in sports journalism as knowledgeable or as entertaining as Wilbon.

LeBron, Newton, Gonzalez, and random observations on the wonderful world of sports

In the words of the great San Francisco Chronicle sports columnist Scott Ostler, here are my deep thoughts, cheap shots, and bon mots:

---Once again, my heart goes out to the great sports fans in Cleveland. Haven't they experienced enough torture already? In what amounted to cruel and unusual punishment for a loyal fan base that has endured an immeasurable amount of sports devastation over the years, LeBron James made his long-awaited return to Cleveland on Thursday night. The fans did their part, loudly booing LeBron at every turn and coming up with a myriad of brilliantly clever chants. The electricity in the building was palpable. Forty-eight minutes later, however, LeBron's masterpiece was complete, and the Heat won in an absolute rout. Is life fair? No, my friends, it is not.

---As painful as it is to admit, Thursday's win may be a defining turning point for the Miami Heat. LeBron had easily his best game of the season, Dwayne Wade was on top of his game, and Chris Bosh finally stopped underachieving. If the Heat continue to play like they did on Thursday night, and in another impressive victory against the Hawks on Saturday night, then they truly do have a chance at achieving greatness.

---Here's hoping they flounder in mediocrity all season long, however. Miami remains the league's chief villains. In his postgame interview with TNT's Craig Sager, LeBron was as arrogant as ever, at one point referring to his greatness. C'mon LeBron, even Terrell Owens thinks your act is getting old.

---As for the Cavs, Thursday's shellacking was an utter embarrassment. The Cavs failed to respond to the energy of the fans, delivering a completely lethargic performance. Making matters worse, players like Jamario Moon were joyfully yapping with LeBron on the sideline. As Charles Barkley rightfully pointed out at halftime, the Cavaliers showed no fire or passion.

---Here come the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs followed their hugely impressive road win at the Jazz on Friday night with a gutsy comeback win at Sacramento on Saturday. Dirk Nowitzki is having one of his best seasons, Jason Kidd is an ageless wonder, and Caron Butler and Jason Terry are part of a deep, incredibly talented supporting cast. Rick Carlisle's team is an astonishing 8-1 on the road this season. But.......haven't we seen this before from the Mavs in the regular season?

---Year in and year out, Dallas is an elite regular season team. During the regular season, there are very few shots of Mark Cuban growling on the sideline, because the Mavs typically win. But when the playoffs roll around, the Mavs have a disturbing tendency to underachieve. So while I am undeniably impressed by their superb play so far this season---Friday's win at Utah was especially striking----the Mavs need to perform well in the playoffs before I shed my skepticism.

---Derrick Rose is incredible. Rose single-handedly carried the Bulls to a much-needed overtime win over the Rockets at the United Center on Saturday night. Rose drained a preposterous three with two defenders in his face to send the game into O.T., and he continued his heroics in the overtime period. Make no mistake: Rose is an elite player, and an elite point guard along with the likes of Paul, Williams, Rondo, Westbrook, and Nash.

---Speaking of the Bulls, there is further reason to be excited in Chicago, now that Carlos Boozer has made his debut. Boozer appeared somewhat rusty in his first couple games back from injury, but he should get back to his old self in no time. Now that Boozer is in the fold, the Bulls should start playing at a significantly higher level.

---On to college football now, where the BCS National Championship Game is set: Oregon and Auburn will battle on January 10 in Glendale, Arizona. My disdain for the BCS aside, this should be a magnificent, exciting game that will come down to the final seconds.

---Say what you want about his controversial off-the-field scandal, but there is no denying the fact that Cam Newton is an electrifying player. Much like quarterbacks Andrew Luck of Stanford and Denard Robinson of Michigan, Newton is a breathtaking talent, a surefire soon-to-be star in the NFL.

---However, as an Oregon resident, my allegiances lie with the Ducks in the title game. I am happy for Oregon, and have been thoroughly impressed with the dominant manner in which Chip Kelly's team has played all year. I hope Oregon beats Auburn, but can they at least get some better uniforms? The Ducks never fail to appall with their garish unis, and Saturday's game at Oregon State was a new fashion low. How can a team wear a uniform that features none of its school colors?

---On to the NFL now, where Week 13 promises to be thrilling and compelling. As a Niners fan, I will be selfishly glued to the Niners-Packers game in the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field. But there are other huge games with playoff implications that I am giddy for as well, namely Falcons-Bucs, Steelers-Ravens, and of course, Jets-Patriots.

---My quick takes on those three affairs: Matt Ryan will wear down the Bucs defense as the Falcons win to all but end Tampa's playoff hopes.....Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and the bruising Baltimore D overcomes a valiant Pittsburgh effort to give the Ravens the victory.....and Mark Sanchez continues his strong play to bolster the Jets over Tom Brady and the Pats in what will be the best game of the week. So I like the Falcons, Ravens, and Jets, which means you should bet on the Bucs, Steelers, and Patriots.

---Baseball's winter meetings are this week in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, and the first team to make a giant splash is the Boston Red Sox. Boston's signing of Adrian Gonzalez is a master stroke by Theo Epstein that should be enough to catapult the Red Sox back into the playoffs in 2011. Gonzalez, the former San Diego Padre, is a powerful hitter and a terrific defensive player who has never received the credit he deserves for being one of the game's best players. If the Red Sox stay healthy, they should leap ahead of the Rays and Yankees in the AL East.

---I will end with an appreciation of college basketball. The NBA is far and away my favorite sports league, but I still love the awesomeness of college hoops. College basketball is back and better than ever. In the words of the great Dick Vitale: "Yeah baby!!!!" Gotta love it.